The News & Information Magazine for Groby, Field Head & The Brantings
Martinshaw’s new library opened by VIP June Crebbin
Bloors new plan for 90 homes in Groby
Norman Griffiths looks at their new proposals for their site When planning permission was refused for the development of land next to Groby cemetery following the dismissal at appeal of a 133 dwelling scheme in February 2011 residents believed because of the “2 year rule” there could be no further application submitted until January 2013 at the earliest. But Bloors Homes has confirmed that the company is preparing a revised planning application for a residential development. They say it has been designed to address the constraints associated with the site identified through the appeal process and to meet the Borough Council’s policy requirements for affordable housing. CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 - WITH PROPOSED PLAN
On Wednesday 29th February, Martinshaw Primary School’s purpose built New Library was officially opened by Children’s Author June Crebbin. After months of planning, preparation and fund-raising the day finally arrived when the children would be able to use their wonderful new facilities. The funds for the project were raised by the Martinshaw School Assoc. towards providing shelving and furniture and they continue in their efforts to raise sufficient money to buy more furniture, e.g a sofa. A generous donation was kindly made by The Thomas Herbert Trust which helped to pay for the bespoke, brightly coloured shelving unit. The School Council, who represent the student body, were consulted throughout the 12 month process for ideas on how the pupils best like to read and they provided suggestions, such as covering all the windows and doors to increase the surprise on the opening day. They also came up with the format for the opening day. The School set up a working party led by Mrs Catherine Ward which brought everything together. An Amazon book list was started from lists made by each class of books they would most like to see in their library and parents and staff were invited to donate the various titles. Currently 200 new books have been donated. Each class continues to fund-raise to provide further non fiction titles. The grand opening was timed to be part of a week long set of activities to promote reading and World Book Week in school. June Crebbin, as well as opening the library, spent the whole day with each class helping to inspire the children’s writing which she achieved with some very imaginative results, which were shared by the young authors in front of the whole school assembly. VIP children ( children who had been selected as part of a school wide writing competition, to reward high quality writing) then held a long red ribbon which June cut and the library was officially opened and the VIPs and guests were shown around the new library. The following day was designated World Book Day. The students dressed as their favourite book characters for the day and arrived in school dressed as Mr Men, Cat in the Hat, Oliver Twist, The Ice Witch, Dennis the Menace. You think of a famous book character and probably one of the children would be depicting it. The staff arrived all dressed as characters from Harry Potter books as the pupils were given their first opportunity to read and relax in their new facility.
Owen Lawrence
Next issue out on 14th April • Article/Advert Deadline: 31st March
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Anything is possible if you don’t know what you’re talking about.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Brookvale student LETTER Dog fouling in Dhrashti meets the Lane Duchess of Cambridge Rookery & Ratby Road There are a few dog walkers who have no respect around the village.
Email us at: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
I must express my disgust at the fouling left by dogs in Rookery lane and on the grass verges going up Ratby Road. It seems to me that we have a number of people who don’t care, despite notices around the village asking people to remove fouling by their dog. These people have no consideration for others.
Visit the website at www.grobyspotlight.co.uk 3,500 copies distributed 11 times a year (no issue in July) to homes and businesses in Groby, Field Head and The Brantings. Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head.
Spotlight Reader
Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press. The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight. None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.
A Brookvale student had the experience of a lifetime when she danced for the Queen and the Duchess of Cambridge. Dhrashti Jobanputra, who is in her first year at Brookvale High School, dances with Desi Masti Academy 3 times a week and as been dancing with them since the age to 4 years. The dance style they teach is Bollywood dancing, Kathak dancing (clasical Indian dance) and is doing her grade 3 exam later on this year. The routine the performed on for the Royal visit on 8th March has been performed at the Curve earlier this year. The performance was at DMU and it was the first performance the Queen saw when she came in. After unveiling the plaque at the University the Royal party walked over to the girls and shook their hands and HM the Queen said “how wonderful their outfits were, but they must be cold”. Kate also shook their hands and said “She wanted to come over and dance with them, and how nice their face paint looked.”
Nim Jobanputra
Small Ads ONE ROLL of CARPET UNDERFELT New, unused, surplus to requirements. Price: FREE for collection. Tel: 01530 242896 Panasonic TU-DSB31 Sky Digital Satellite Receiver. With remote control unit and user manual. Needs 2 pin power cable. Condition unknown. Price: £10. Tel: 07866 109206 TWO OVER 60’S FRONT CIRCLE TICKETS for The Susan Boyle Musical at Birmingham Hippodrome , with special guest appearance by Susan Boyle. Wednesday 30th May at 2.00pm. Price: £50. Tel: 0116 2873195. Cross Trainer/Strider, with digital read out (nearly new). Price: £50. Tel: 07910 374657 THREE PIECE SUITE - Cream with Pale Green pattern fabric. Very good condition. Welcome to view. Price: £200 o.n.o. Tel: 0116 2388011 Logik 7” Digital Photo Frame + power adaptor + adjustable stand. Unwanted gift. Price: £20. Tel: 07788 886531
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Drawing on my fine command of language, I said nothing.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
National Trust NEWS
April this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Mass Trespass on Kinder Scout. On 24th April 1932 nearly 500 walkers, locals and members of the “Right to Ramble” organisation gathered to gain access to the moorland. After a brief but vigorous battle with landowners and gamekeepers the walkers marched victoriously on to Ashop Head. This action eventually paved the way for the creation of the National Parks in 1949, with the Peak District National Park being established in 1952. 2012 will also mark 30 years of National Trust ownership of Kinder Scout. To mark the anniversary of the Mass Trespass there will be a week of walks, talks, exhibitions and events at various locations commencing on Tuesday 24th April. These will include a re-enactment of the Mass Trespass, with groups of walkers from Hayfield and Edale meeting at Kinder Low. Walkers can follow in the footsteps of the Trespass at any time by downloading a walk sheet and map from www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks Earlier in April there will be Easter Egg hunts and trails at the following NT properties in our region. Kedleston Hall, 31 March – 5 April, 10.00 – 4.00; Calke Abbey, 6 – 8 April, 11.00 – 3.30; Hardwick Hall, 6 – 9 April, 11.00 – 4.00; Sudbury Hall, 6 – 9 April, 12.00 – 4.00; Belton House, 7 & 8 April, 10.30 – 4.00 and Canons Ashby, 8 & 9 April, 11.00 – 4.00. The National Trust Leicester Association has an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 28th March at St Guthlac’s Memorial Hall, Holbrook Road, Leicester at 2.30pm. Dr Margaret Bonney will present a talk on Slavery & Abolition – The Leicester Connection. The Association has its AGM on Tuesday 17th which will be followed by an illustrated talk on the Clumber Park Estate by Beth Dawson, NT General Manager. The meeting will be held at Highpoint Conference Centre, Glenfield Road, Leicester at 7.30pm. Admission to both meetings is NTLA members £2.50 and visitors £4.00. These are the last Association meetings until September, but over the summer months there is a programme of outings and visits for the members. For more information on the National Trust Leicester Association and its Talks Service call 0116 2229133.
Alan Tyler
Chairman, National Trust Leicester Association
Quote for a local job!
Calling all local builders Building companies are invited to express their interest to provide a building quotation for The Groby Allotment Society. Their latest Project to install a waterless Kazuba Toilet at the Groby Allotments on Ratby Road is currently being applied for from the ‘Awards For All’ Lottery Funding. Further information is available from the Allotment member Mrs Sadhana Stokes. She can be contacted via email on sadhana.stokes@ntlworld.com for further information.
Either I’ve been missing something, or nothing has been going on.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Local talent shines in the UK’s biggest original music competition!
Young local band FourPointOh who all attend Groby Community College have wowed the judging panel of the UK’s biggest original music competition and sailed through the audition stage of Live and Unsigned. The competition has attracted over 50,000 entries in the past 5 years and it’s open to all genres of music from Heavy Rock to Rap. After making it through the auditions beating hundreds of other hopefuls, the band will now be preparing for the Regional Final Showcase on 14th April at Pride Park, Derby in front of hundreds of spectators for the opportunity to progress towards the Grand Final at Live Fest at The O2 in London. They will be competing against the most talented bands and artists in the country. The best acts will also get the opportunity to play at some of the biggest festivals in the UK from over 100 Festival slots including Beach Break Live, Boardmasters, Bearded Theory, Strawberry Fields and Osfest. This year’s competition also offers acts an extra chance for exposure as it’s being filmed for Sky TV in an exclusive fly-on-the-wall documentary. Acts will be competing for the main prizes which include; £10,000 to be spent on development, a £10,000 publicity investment, gigs at festivals in Canada, Italy and Latvia, a UK tour of up to 100 shows and a UK festival tour including guaranteed slots at Norfolk Spectacular, Boardmasters, Strawberry Fields Festival, Brownstock, London Summer Jam, Lancaster Music Festival and Butserfest. We would like to wish FourPointOh the very best of luck in their quest to progress in the competition. For more information go to the website www.LiveandUnsigned.UK.com. Or better still come down and support your local talent; you can purchase tickets from the website http://www. Liveandunsigned.uk.com/tickets/purchase .
Groby Bobbin Lace Group We are a group of ladies who meet at Groby Village Hall on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings. Our talents are varied from beginners to those with a wealth of experience. We are a very friendly group and willing to pass on our knowledge. Do try our free taster session where all equipment will be provided. If there is sufficient interest, I will start a Wednesday afternoon group. For further information, please contact our leader Susan Marlow on 0116 2365789 and leave a message on the answer phone or email: susanmarlow47@btinternet.com
For a list of all the ways technology has failed to improve the quality of life, press 3.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Community College youth club gets Jubilee funding Norman Griffiths reports on the Parish Council grant
L An Evening of Psychic Mediumship One of the country’s most most well-known and respected mediums, Tony Stockwell, will present an evening of Psychic mediumship at Snibston Century Theatre, Coalville, Leicestershire on Saturday 24th March 2012 - 2pm matinee and 7.30pm evening performance. Contact the Box Office on 01530 278444.
ast October the Parish Council discussed the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and decided to look at setting some money aside to support any village organisation that wished to organise an event as part of the celebrations. Organisers were invited to give advance notice of any events they planned in order that a diary could be maintained to help others making similar plans avoid date conflicts. When it set the budget for 2012/13 the Council set aside £1,500 to help fund Jubilee events but surprisingly with only a few months to go no-one has responded to the invitation. With no apparent demand for assistance in financing an event the Council has decided to allocate £1,000 of the provision to help a local good cause in need of funding in Jubilee Year.
Transitional Youth Club Groby Community College is looking to develop an after school youth club which will cater for local year 9 students who will be joining the College this year. The aim is to familiarise students to their school surroundings, therefore making transition easier. It seems that Transition at Year 9 is one of the hardest times to move students from the High School that they have been at for the last three years. This disturbance comes at a time when students need to be as settled as possible in order to secure the best possible outcomes they can in their GCSEs. “Previous experience tells us that this will be a success,” explained Robert Coles the Principal. “We have many examples from before the Local Authority cutbacks of running similar ventures which have had massive community success. Unfortunately the college faces significant funding cuts meaning finding money from the college budget is nearly impossible.” The college expects to lose half a million pounds over the next two years from the budget.
£3,000 funding needed “We need to raise funding of £3,000 to run this Transitional Youth Club for a year, so the contribution from the Parish Council on Monday 5 March was a huge bonus in getting the club up and running,” he added. “The majority of students will be from Groby /
Ratby area. I would not seek funding from other parish councils as Ratby have a youth club that young people visit. However we will be looking towards other local funding streams including charities and voluntary groups to help further support the youth club.” So if there is any other individual or organisation who would like to give some financial help it will be gratefully received. It is expected that the club can accommodate approximately 40 young people for a two hour session each Thursday from 6.30pm until 8.30pm. By attending the youth club, the students will be able to form relationships with staff and other students, further easing the transition process. Robert is unaware of any similar provisions within the area and believes that the Youth Club will create a positive image within the community especially, for example, with police involvement. The club will also encourage young people to participate in structured activities with positive outcomes including
• Arts & crafts • board games • sports • music • Wii • kitchen facilities • topical discussions.
The Jubilee link And the fact that this donation has come from Groby’s Jubilee Fund has not gone unnoticed. “We hope that the outcome for the project will have a community feel by engaging with the Jubilee agenda. We would like the youth club’s work to leave a jubilee related legacy. One of the first things that we will do when we form is to decide what the outcome of the work will be which will not only build community links around the college but also have a positive outcome for all of the Groby residents,” explained Robert. One of the links which the Parish Council is keen to explore relates to its Jubilee Year tree planting programme. With just a few months to go there is still some funding available in the Jubilee pot. The Clerk to the Parish Council will be able to provide further information.
If a man is bald at the front, he is a thinker. If he is bald at the back, he is sexy. If he’s bald from front to back - he thinks he’s sexy. When one engine fails on a twin-engine aircraft you always have enough power left to get you you to the scene of the crash.
I have animal magnetism. When I go outside, squirrels stick to my clothes.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Fri 16th March: Classix Gold Sat 17th March: Chrissy Sun 18th March: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 23rd March: Jane George Sat 24th March: Mike Bliss Sun 25th March: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 30th March: Max McTavish Sat 31st March: Dressed 2 Kill Sun 1st April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 6th April: Nolan Terry Sat 7th April: Bonnie Sun 8th April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 13th April: Sue C Sat 14th April: Booze Brothers Sun 15th April: Super Sunday ‘50’ SEE ADVERT ON PAGE 1 The Stamford Arms, 2 Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 5616 General Knowledge QUIZ Every Sunday Music QUIZ Every Tuesday The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield. T: 01530 242 496 ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN
Bagworth Working Men’s Club, Station Road, Bagworth. Tel. 01530 230205 New members Welcome 2012 membership now due. Live entertainment – last Saturday of the month Andy’s charity quiz – last Friday of the month £1.50 each Sequence Dance - Sunday nights 8pm £1 admission. Tea Dance - Wednesday 2-4 pm £1 admission Saturday 17th March: Dance - 8pm - £1 admission For further details, tel: 01530 230205 The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tribute Nights/£2 Entry after 7pm. Fri 9th March: PHIL COLLINS Fri 23rd March: 80s TRIBUTE Fri 6th April: MOTOWN SOUL Fri 20th April: THE SUPREMES Quiz Nite: 2nd Tues of Month The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sat 28th January (’King of the Road’) Sat 31st March: MICHAEL VICKERS
The Bricklayers Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays www.bricklayersarms.net
The Bulls Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Garden & Pub Games etc.
The Club, Thornton Main Street. T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members ALL SKY SPORTS AND ESPN www.myspace.com/thorntonclub
Send details of your LOCAL pub and club entertainments and we’ll include them in this column FREE! Amazing!
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I know it all, I just can’t remember it simultaneously.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Community College
Maths link with Severn Trent Water Are you aware of your weekly household water consumption? Did you know that running the tap when brushing your teeth wastes up to 10 litres each time, which is a full bucket of water? The Maths department at Groby Community College have linked up with Severn Trent Water at the start of the new Maths Unit on Statistics and Number. The aim is to make students more aware of how much water they use and to bring maths alive by collecting real data. The photograph above shows Hanna Sandstrom from Severn Trent Water pictured with Kieran Oldershaw. If you are interested in finding out more about how you can save water, go to the Severn Trent Water website where you can order a free water saving kit: www.stwater.co.uk/savewater
New Operational HQ will save borough council money
PLANS to move the Borough Council’s Operational HQ from Middlefield Lane in Hinckley to the town’s Harrowbrook Industrial Estate could result in a one-off net capital receipt of half a million pounds and reduce the ongoing operating costs. Once the site in Fleming Road has been refurbished to enable the Business Contract, Housing Repairs and Street Scene Services team to relocate, the old depot site in Middlefield Lane could be sold for housing, providing the council with an estimated net capital receipt of around £500,000. The reason why the council has been looking to relocate the Operational HQ is because the existing site is in poor condition and is in urgent need of improvement. Refurbishing the buildings to bring them up to modern standards is not considered to be financially viable – and at 3.48 acres the site is surplus to the council’s needs. In addition, it is also now surrounded by housing, following developments in the last few years. In 2010 agents acting on behalf of the council identified several possible new locations. Having considered all their strengths and weaknesses, officers recommended that the Fleming Road site was the best option as it met both the operational and financial requirements. Councillors backed this choice at a meeting of the full Council on 20 December 2011. The Fleming Road site comprises a former carpet warehouse with an office block and concrete yard. The facilities can be refurbished to meet the council’s needs, with a small extension for a new office building. Its location within an industrial estate is seen as much more appropriate for the activities than the current location and the potential effects of additional noise will be fully addressed. Subject to planning approval, the refurbishment scheme could provide the following: • Office accommodation and welfare facilities for a total of 138 staff • Storage/vehicle workshop of 578 sq m • Working yard and vehicle parking of 5,000 sq m • Car parking • Security gates and CCTV cameras The council hopes that this regeneration of a semi-derelict building will be an inspiration for others to invest in modernisation of other parts of the estate.
If things get any worse, I’ll have to ask you to stop helping me.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Puppet helps parents at antenatal workshop We all know that children enjoy puppet shows but who would have thought that new born babies would be benefitting from puppet education? The Charnwood BRAS (Breastfeeding Reassurance And Support) Group run antenatal workshops to share information about breastfeeding and they use their brightly coloured hand puppet to demonstrate how a baby gets good attachment to its mother’s breast when feeding. One of the group’s volunteers, Tamsin Robinson from Anstey explains “This puppet show isn’t exactly Punch & Judy, it’s more Lunch at Boobie. We use our puppet and a knitted breast to show how important it is that the baby gets a good mouthful of breast, and isn’t just sucking on the nipple. We also share plenty of other useful tips on how to get breastfeeding off to the best possible start.” The group is part of Leicestershire’s active breastfeeding peer support network and has set up the antenatal workshops in response to parents who felt they didn’t get enough support with breastfeeding in the early days and stopped earlier than they might have done. Pregnant ladies and their partners are invited to attend this one-off workshop, whether they are expecting their first child, or already have children. One lady who attended a recent workshop commented “The image of the puppet with a mouthful of knitted breast is forever in my head!”. One of the fathers at the same workshop said how useful it was to hear the facts about breastfeeding before the baby was born, rather than get confused once the baby is here. The two hour workshop runs monthly on a Monday evening from The Moira Community Centre in Loughborough and on a Saturday afternoon at Birstall Methodist Church Hall. It is free to attend and is designed as a oneoff workshop so each couple would attend once only. The venture is run by the Charnwood BRAS volunteers and there is always a health professional present as well. The next dates are Saturday 14th April in Birstall and Mondays 26th March and 23rd April in Loughborough. For more information about this workshop or the Charnwood BRAS in general, please see www.charnwoodbras.co.uk To book a place please contact the group on 07583 041054.
Claim your million quid! Someone in Leicester has won a £1 million raffle prize AND NOT CLAIMED IT. In the 10th January 2012 EuroMillions Millionaire Raffle, a £1,000,000 winning ticket was purchased in the City of Leicester. The number is: LZT634986. The last date for making a claim is 8th Jul 2012 . Was it you? Start looking down the back of the sofa right NOW!
In God we trust. All others pay cash.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby Village Society ~ Preservation ~ Conservation ~ Communal Interests ~ Programme of Events for 2012
Thursday March 22 Thursday April 26 Thursday May 24 Thursday June 28 Thursday July 26 Thursday August 23 Thursday September 27 Thursday October 25 Thursday November 22 Thursday December 13
Annual General Meeting Leicestershire & Rutland Murders - Mr David Bell The Little Theatre - Mr Mike Bull An Indian Adventure - Mrs Sophie Hadfield-Hill The National Memorial Arboretum - Speaker to be announced Evening All - Mr Richard Pollard Orson Wright builder of South Wigston and most of Leicester Mr Peter Cousins Chris & Ken the Railwaymen - Mr Ken Issit & Mr Chris Bates Fools and Jesters - Mrs Sally Henshaw Life as a Barnardo’s Bo - Mr Alan Dearman
Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm. For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842 e-mail:- groby.villagesociety@tiscali.co.uk Non Members are Welcome
Groby land makes £30k at Auction
A single enclosure of sloping land in Groby was sold for £30,000 at the Kal Sangra Shonki Brothers Property Auction on Wednesday 22nd February 2012. The land - at Newtown Linford Lane, Groby LE6 0DQ - has an approximate area of 1.43 acres (0.57 hectares). A Development Uplift Clause for any non-agricultural or nonequestrian use will be included within the contract entitling the Seller to recover 20% of any increase in value of the site for a 30 year period. The Guide price for this land was £35,000 plus.
Olympic Countdown to London 2012
1948 Olympic Torch Visits Elizabeth Woodville School We began our countdown to the London 2012 Olympics in February when we were visited by Jamell Anderson, an athlete hoping to play for Great Britain in Basketball at the next Olympics (2016). He talked to the children about his Olympic Dreams and answered questions about how he started his sporting career. It was especially exciting to have the 1948 Olympic Torch in school for our assembly and to hear all about the history of the games in the United Kingdom. Our Sports Captains even had the opportunity to hold the torch aloft. Well done to Mr Wilson our Schools Sports Apprentice for organising the event. Excitement for the start of the London Olympics is building, look out for more countdown activities coming soon at Elizabeth Woodville Primary School.
Teresa Cliff
Bradgate Flower Club News On Wednesday 4th April, Bradgate Flower Club’s guest demonstrator is Janet Cooper from Daventry, who will explore the theme ‘Nature’s Bounty’. The meeting on 2nd May will welcome Lynda Stamp of Market Harborough whose theme is ‘Inspired By ....’. Both meetings start at 7.30pm in Newtown Linford Village Hall (which will be the venue each month except in December). The Flower Club’s events are open to existing and new members and to visitors, for whom an entry charge of £5 is made. Further details of both meetings can be obtained from Geraldine Abbott on 01530 415378.
Grants for summer activities Grants are available to help community groups run summer holiday activities for children and young people throughout the borough. This will be the third year that Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council has offered grants of up to £200 for this purpose, thanks to the Summer Activities Fund. Last year, grants helped support a wide variety of activities, including fishing, a glee workshop, arts & crafts and tennis, to name but a few. Activities must take place during the summer holidays (14th July to 30th August 2012) and should have a sport, arts or play theme. For those interested in applying, an application pack will be available from 2nd April and can be downloaded from the council’s website at www. hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk. For further information, call Karen Mason on 01455 255847 or email: karen.mason@hinckleybosworth.gov.uk
I never skip classes, unless they happen to clash with my free time.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Councillors call on Home Search Secretary to take more for Young action on scrap metal theft Musician of the Year Two Hinckley and Bosworth councillors have written to the Home Secretary asking for the government to take more action to deal with the problem of scrap metal theft.
Liberal Democrat Councillors David Bill and Michael Mullaney have issued the plea after the recent attempted theft of lead worth £50,000 from the roof of St Mary’s Church in Hinckley. Cllr David Bill said: “Scrap metal theft does huge damage to local communities. Not only do we have this recent incident at St Mary’s Church, last year the stealing of copper telephone wiring from outside of Barlestone saw many people left without telephone and internet services until it was repaired.” Cllr Michael Mullaney added further: “The government is taking some steps to deal with this problem but it needs to take further action to make stealing metal less attractive to criminals, otherwise we will continue to see these kinds of incidents.” In the letter David Bill and Michael Mullaney welcome government plans to outlaw cash payments for scrap metal sales and to increase the fines for Scrap Metal Dealers who break the law. But they urge the government to go further and back a proposed new Metal Theft Prevention Bill which includes proposals for a robust licensing scheme, the requirement for proof of ID for all those selling scrap metal and the identification and recording of the metal itself to create an audit trail.
THE search is on for Hinckley & Bosworth’s Young Musician of the Year 2012. The Borough Council and the Matthew Fulham Foundation are offering a £1,000 bursary for a talented musician wishing to further their expertise in their chosen field of music. The six shortlisted candidates from across the borough are performing at a public showcase on Saturday 10 March at 2pm at St Martin’s Catholic School in Stoke Golding. This is a free event and all are welcome to attend. The winner is announced on the day and will perform at Proms in the Park, which will be held in Hollycroft Park on Saturday 16 June 2012. Previous winners have included singers Alice Gildea and Rebecca Hamilton, Alice Boulton who plays the clarinet and last year’s winner was bass guitarist, Atticus Hall-McNair. Peter Fulham said: “This will be our fifth year partnering Hinckley and Bosworth’s Young Musician of the Year and Proms in the Park. We feel it is a fitting tribute to our son Matthew, who died in the Sharm El Sheik bombings. For our family it has been a way to bring something positive out of our loss of Matthew (a talented musician who played in the JCC Orchestra at the Proms in the Park just three weeks before that fateful holiday). “It also helps us to say thank you to the people of the borough who supported us during that trying time and to help other young musicians showcase their talents and obtain a bursary to move their career forward”.
Someday you will get your big chance - or have you already had it?
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Get your grass skirt out...
Walk around Leicester at twilight in aid of LOROS The LOROS Twilight Walk takes place on Saturday 31st March 2012, starting at the King Power Stadium and goes around the city centre. Join women of all ages and Find us on IN AID OF fitness levels on a A LADIES ONLY EVENT LOROS 6 mile sponsored walk in support of the LOROS Hospice. The walk will have an Hawaiian theme this year and will take place around a well marshalled route in the cultural City of Leicester. This is a ladies only event which 7:30pm will raise funds for the Hospice and its care services.start The event starts at 7.30pm from the King Power Stadium, following a fun Aloha! Join women of all ages andwarm fitnessup. levels on a 6 mile sponsored walk in support of LOROS Hospice. Diane Morris, Fundraising Manager said “We are excited to be holding the Twilight Walk at theStarting King Power Stadium again. Ladies, at the King Power Stadium, the routeplease will passcome famous along and support LOROS. Therelandmarks will alsoincluding be the opportunity to remember Leicester the Curve Theatre, Clock Tower, The Cathedral, Guildhall manyladies more.night a loved one by releasing a balloon in their memory. It isand a fun Doughnuts and Hot Chocolate for allskirts walkers at the finish. out and we do hope people will shimmy in their grass and colourful garlands and have a brilliant night out colourful to support a great Shimmy in your garlands andlocal grass cause. skirts forWe a are hoping to raise £20,000 from the event which will help support the Hawaiian themed evening. 2,500 patients and their families that use ourRegister free services each year.” at Gentlemen please support the event by helping to marshal on the route. Registration for the event costs just £10 and includes a free t-shirt and goodies at the finish for all entrants. Why not get a team together from your workplace, your friends (Advance or social andonhave fabulous night out price groups £10 - Registration the night a £30) whilst raising money for such a worthwhile charity. Register now at www.thetwilightwalk.co.uk or call 0116 231 8484.
t h g i l i TwWalk
Hospice Care for Leicestershire and Rutland Registered Charity No: 506120
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Sence Valley – An exhibition Sence Valley Park, full of surprise, beauty, opportunity and fun is the inspiration for an exhibition taking place in Ibstock this Spring.
The
Saturday 31st March 2012
thetwilightwalk.co.uk
Entry fee £10 per person
From March 26th March the Ibstock Community Gallery at 57 High Street, open from 9 -5 p.m. will host the first exhibition of art, inspired by this unique local park. This exhibition will not only showcase the talent of local photographers, but provide a ‘shop window’ for the park and volunteering opportunities. If you walk with your family or dog; ride your bike or horse; or fly your kite and can record that, then it will be for you. The only rule is; Sence Valley Park features, in some way in your photo. Jonathan O’Farrell, volunteer with the parks Conservation Trust said; “Not that we have rigid categories for this exhibition, but some things that might feature include sunsets, snow, landscape, smiles, pinecones, dragonflies, fly-tippiing, frog spawn, toadstools, tools, Christmas trees, heritage … I think you get the idea, it’s your park, what do you value, what make you smile … maybe, what concerns you?” There is still time to be included in the exhibition, email your photos or art work to: SenceVpark.7172 @twitpic.com together with a short description, by Tuesday 20th March. The organisers will then let you know if they will be able to feature your work. The best way to contact us about the exhibition is via our Twitter @SenceVpark
Curiosity killed the cat, but for a while, I was a suspect ...
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
It’s closer than you think ...
Groby Open Gardens: 16th-17th June 2012
Groby Parish Church is organising an Open Gardens Weekend on 16th and 17th June 2012 when at least 12 gardens will be open around the village. Full details will be given in the next issue of Spotlight but in the meantime, if you would like to join in by opening your garden - or would simply like more details - call 0116 222 9133.
Council Tax frozen THE Borough Council has ‘frozen’ its council tax for 2012/13 to the same level as the current financial year. The decision was taken at a meeting of the full council on Thursday 23 February and means that the Council Tax, already the 10th lowest of the 201 Districts in England, will have remained at the same level for three consecutive years - £112.35 per year for a ‘Band D’ property.
A fool and his money are soon partying.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Medals galore for Elizabeth Woodville Primary School Elizabeth Woodville Primary School sent a squad of Cross Country runners to the Ivanhoe Challenge. The event attracted top class athletes from Primary and Secondary schools as well as regional athletic clubs. The children had to cope with extremely cold conditions as well as the course being partially frozen and covered in snow. Elizabeth Woodville School proved to be the stars of the day with numerous individual victories and team successes. Race 1 saw Year 1-2 boys dominate the team event to take gold as well as taking individual honours for James Hollingworth (2nd), William Alves ( 3rd) and Harry Gamble (4th) Year 1-2 girls race was comfortably won by Mackenzie Smith with team mate Lucy Hollingworth finishing a very creditable 12th. Matthew Hollingworth showed his strength in winning the Year 3-4 boys race with a victory of 6 seconds over some tough opposition from club athletes. Year 3-4 girls were particularly outstanding. The race was won by Rachel Nealon with the biggest margin of the day, this was regarded by many as the performance of the day due to being 220m clear in a 1700m race. The team were victorious beating the host club Ivanhoe by 9 points, with twins Harleen and Karendeep Thandi being 2nd and 6th respectively. Chris Nealon was runner up in the year 5-6 boys after a close tussle with Derbyshire athlete Jack Douglas. The support Chris received from George Robinson (7th) and Sean Wilton (31st) secured the silver medals in the team event. The final Primary schools race saw Elizabeth Woodvilles two representatives finishing a creditable 18th (Alicia Westbury) and 43rd (Elin Onions). The school received a special trophy from the organisers for the most number of entries supporting the event. The Elizabeth Woodville cross country club has already enjoyed incredible success this year with individual and team victories in the Leicestershire Primary Cross Country League. The children are in desperate need of new running vests and are keen to hear from anyone who would be interested in sponsoring this highly successful and talented club. Below are the results in relation to Elizabeth Woodville athletes. Elizabeth Woodville Primary School Ivanhoe Challenge Results 2012
Year 1/2 Year 1/2 Boys 800m Girls 800m 2nd James Hollingworth 3.46 1st Mackenzie Smith 3.52 3rd William Alves 3.48 12th Lucy Hollingworth 4.49 4th Harry Gamble 3.49 Team 1st Year 3/4 Year 3/4 Boys 1700m Girls 1700m 1st Matthew Hollingworth 7.39 1st Rachel Nealon 7.55 31st Harry Bates 9.07 2nd Harleen Thandi 8.42 42nd William Robinson 9.39 6th Karendeep Thandi 9.06 50th Daniel Lyndon 10.19 9th Katie Onions 9.21 52nd Daniel Wilton 10.34 19th Tilly Clarke 9.43 63rd Phillip Bailey 11.30 24th Lilly McGlinchey 10.09 28th Chloe Palfreyman 10.26 58th Jasmine Stone 14.07 Teams 5th & 12th Teams 1st & 4th Year 5/6 Year 5/6 Boys 1700m Girls 1700m 2nd Chris Nealon 7.02 18th Alicia Westbury 9.11 7th George Robinson 7.37 43rd Elin Onions 10.30 9.28 Team 2nd Team Results are based on 3 to score, where 6 or more runners we effectively have a second Team.
31st Sean Wilton
Nicki Nealon
New beauty salon opens A new hair and beauty salon opened for business in Groby on Monday 6th February. Joint Owner, Jamie-Lee Hodgson, completed her Hairdressing Qualifications at, and worked with George’s Hair Salon in Leicester, before travelling with her family to Australia in 2008. Prior to that, Jamie-Lee had lived in Groby with mum Julie, and brother Jay, since 1994, attending Martinshaw Primary and Brookvale Schools, and completed her education at Groby College. On their return from Australia, and whilst looking for premises in and around Leicester, with the intention to open a salon, they heard that the “Brambles” clothes shop, known locally as ‘The Monsoon Shop’, on Newtown Linford Lane, Groby, was moving to Ashby De La Zouch. The premises turned out to be the ideal spot for their joint venture business, which is being run by Jamie-Lee, her mum Julie, and sister-in-law Samantha. It took just 3 weeks to transform the shop, into a ‘city style’ hair and beauty salon, with some very late night work being completed by local tradesmen, to ensure they were ready for the launch on 4th February. The Open Day was a success, with complimentary Champagne and Canapes, and many people dropping in on the day. The salon offers the following services: Ladies, Gents, & Childrens Hair, including Racoon Hair Extensions, Calgel nails, Luxury Manicures, Luxury Pedicures, Waxing, Sunbeds and Spray Tanning, and the very popular, Fabulous vibration plates. SEE ADVERT ON PAGE 18.
I’m not crazy. I’ve just been in a very bad mood for 30 years.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
You say I’m a bitch like it’s a bad thing.
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Bloors’ revised proposals for housing at the junc Continued from page 1
“The revised scheme will provide approximately 90 dwellings and the development will avoid those parts of the site subject to flood risk and will allow for unobstructed easements to the watercourses along the northern and eastern boundaries. It will also incorporate a Sustainable Urban Drainage system. The revised planning application will be submitted shortly and representations can be made to the Borough Council in the usual way once the application has been submitted,” said a spokesman for the company.
So what about the 2 year rule? Bloors believes that it is legitimate for them to submit a new application before two years have elapsed, arguing that the power to decline to determine a revised planning application is available to local planning authorities where the revised application is the same or similar to the refused or dismissed applications and the local planning authority consider that there has been no significant change in the relevant considerations since the relevant refusal or dismissal. It seems that the legislation relating to this issue says that “an application for planning permission is similar if the local planning authority think that the development and the land to which the applications relate are the same or substantially the same.” Bloors argues that the revised scheme is not the same or substantially the same as that dismissed at appeal and that the only way the Borough can determine whether or not this is the case is by allowing a revised application to be submitted. They also believe that the power to refuse an application within the two year period should only be used in narrow circumstances where an applicant is deliberately trying to exert pressure on the local planning authority by submitting repeat applications and not where an applicant is making a genuine attempt to take account of objections to a proposal. The Borough Council has taken legal advice to try and clarify the situation. “The two year rule is intended to stop an applicant from submitting the same application within a two year period,” explained a spokesman for the Council. “According to our legal advice, we have to allow Bloors the chance to submit another application to see if it is substantially different from the one that was rejected.”
So what’s different about this scheme? Bloors points out that the revised scheme
• proposes a significantly reduced number of dwellings (from 133 to approximately 90, the final number being subject to detailed design); • meets the requirements for affordable housing; • will avoid those areas of the site
subject to flood risk and as such will not require a flood compensation scheme; • will incorporate a Sustainable Urban Drainage system; and • will allow for unobstructed easements to the watercourses along the northern and eastern boundaries.
ction of Ratby Road and Sacheverell Way in Groby
Once the Borough Council has the planning application it can decide whether it agrees that it is substantially different from the one that was rejected. If it is then, as Bloors points out, representations can be made to the Borough Council in the usual way. The objections to the
previous application will not be taken into consideration and if residents still have concerns they will have to engage with the planning process once again and send in comments on the new application. In the meantime the Parish Council has decided that if it needs representation in
connection with any application for the site it will re-engage Marrons, a specialist practice based in Leicester which focuses on planning and environmental, public law and property.
Norman Griffiths
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Most nudists are people you don’t want to see naked.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Jottings
Breastfeeding advice in Desford Do you need friendly and accurate support from other mothers with breastfeeding experience? Hinckley & Bosworth Sure Start Children’s Centre Programme has Breastfeeding Peer Supporters (through La Leche League) who want to help! To find out more, contact: Desford Sure Start Children’s Centre, Bosworth Community & Sports College, Leicester Lane, Desford, Leics. LE9 9JL - tel: 0116 305 5215 or 07507 339905 or email: emma.collings@leics.gov.uk
BOOK REVIEW By Clare Brierley The Reader
by Bernhard Schlink The Reader is one of those books that stays with you for such a long time after you turn the last page. Set in post-war Germany, we follow Michael Berg as he loses his first love, a woman much older than himself and then as a result, years later finds himself questioning his morals and coming to terms with his country’s recent history first hand. This is a book that forces you to consider difficult subjects from another side, another point of view. It puts you in a place where you can think, “What if I was in that position?” It is a quick read with very challenging questions and a good deal of heart where you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find it. An important book. The Reader is available to borrow from Groby Library.
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News in Brief with Norman Griffiths
Groby Street Fair The Street fair on September 8th will result in the closure of Markfield Road for a day. The closure caused no problems last year and the Parish council raised no objections when they considered the application at their March meeting. The organisers are pleased that with 5 months to go nearly all the stalls have been booked already.
More gas main work planned National Grid has confirmed that their contractors AMEC will be working in the village again in the near future. They need to replace metal gas mains on Markfield Road, roughly from Ratby Road to the A50 slip road, with plastic pipe. If the service pipes to individual properties are metallic they will also be replaced which could mean digging up driveways and gardens along the route of the existing pipes. They are urging residents who have any plans to resurface their driveway or landscape their garden to postpone them until after the works are complete. In some cases the position of the meter may have to be changed in order to meet current safety regulations, but if this is the case they will agree the new position before they carry out the work. The contractors are aware of the need to ensure access to the Parish Church. As the Spotlight went to press the Helpline (0845 6000320) had no information on a start date or the length of the job. The Clerk to the Parish Council, however, has been told that the work will start on the 2nd April.
Barn conversions nearing completion After eight months work the company converting the granite and Swithland slate outbuildings and barns between the Old Hall and Chaplins Butchers have nearly completed their task. And if you like the look of them, and most people do, you’d better be quick as only one of the units is still available. The four families who will move in will have a very attractive environment to live in. The company is tending to specialise in conservation work and has undertaken similar projects in Waltham on the Wolds and Frisby on the Wreake. Meeting the requirements of the Conservation Officer at Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council added around £30,000 to the cost of the project. “Rather than press on and then have to change things we now ask what they would like us to do,” explained Paul, illustrating the comment by pointing to the cast iron gutters and downpipes they have installed. One of the finishing touches, which is shown in the photograph and can be seen just inside the Markfield Road entrance, involved the restoration and siting of a piece of machinery found in the barn. Is there a reader who will let us know what it is and how it was used?
I’d like to have more self-esteem, but I don’t deserve it.
07957 282677
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Cadets Battle the Elements On Sunday 5th February 2012 in the face of adverse weather conditions, 20 cadets and 2 members of staff from 2070 (Glenfield) squadron attended the annual ATC Sunday parade at St Peter’s Church in Glenfield. ATC Sunday marks the anniversary of the Air Training Corps, which was formed on 5th February 1941. This year marked the 71st anniversary of the ATC. The overnight snow had proven to be quite a challenge for a lot of the staff and cadets, in particular the squadrons guest speaker; Air Vice Marshall Phillip Osborn who was travelling a long distance to be in attendance. Fortunately however, this did not deter everyone as cadets began to arrive on bicycles, in Wellington boots and in all manner of outdoor winter clothing to make sure their uniform was not ruined for parade! The service was conducted by the squadron padre Sue Bradley where she enrolled 9 junior cadets into the Air Training Corps The cadets made their Air Cadet Promise as an illustration of their commitment to the corps: “I, Cadet [Full Name], hereby solemnly promise on my honour to serve my Unit loyally and to be faithful to my obligations as a member of the Air Training Corps. I further promise to be a good citizen and to do my duty to God and the Queen, my Country and my Flag”. The Squadron banner was paraded proudly by CPL Holford with SGT Fielder and SGT Zishiri as escorts, although no formal parade was conducted due to the tricky conditions underfoot. CI Brewster: “It is good to see so many cadets recognising the importance of ATC Sunday and making every effort to attend. I was pleasantly surprised to see so many turn up as I was only expecting around ten to do so, it was also very encouraging to see the church as full as it was”. It was certainly a memorable day for those cadets being enrolled into the ATC and also for all of those who were on parade during this winter wonderland. For more information on 2070 and the Air Training Corps please visit www.2070sqn.co.uk
CI Brewster
2070 (Glenfield) Squadron, ATC
Newbuy Scheme Attracting Huge Interest Says David Wilson Homes THE launch of the Government’s NewBuy scheme on 12th March, which will herald the return of 95 per cent mortgages for buyers of new homes, is already attracting enormous interest says housebuilder David Wilson Homes. Around 20,000 potential homebuyers have already pre-registered their interest on the company’s website nationally with the weekly registration rate now hitting 1,500. Interest in the scheme is being driven by the dramatically reduced deposit needed to buy a new home, giving creditworthy buyers the best opportunity for five years to get onto the housing ladder. As well as website pre-registration, David Wilson Homes is launching its own helping hand for would-be homebuyers with a helpline – 08448156178 to deal with the increased level of interest. It is also pledging that its network of mortgage advisers will be available seven days a week so that NewBuy mortgage applicants can get independent advice and a rapid decision. Philip Lacey, Sales Director at David Wilson East Midlands said: “This is a significant change for the housing market in Nottinghamshire and we are seeing substantial levels of interest. “I would urge anyone interested to contact us as soon as possible. We will explain how the new system will work and talk our customers through the reduced deposit requirements. “We have set up a priority service especially for our buyers, using independent mortgage advisers who will ensure their inquiries receive a rapid response.” David Wilson East Midlands is hailing the return of 95 per cent mortgages as a real boost for the local housing market and local economy. “We believe it will provide the necessary kickstart to the market which has been starved of mortgage finance in the past five years,” said Philip. “There is an awful lot of pent–up demand. People have been renting for three or four years and many are a bit fed up that they are paying more in rent than if they had bought. “But the new product is also available to existing homeowners who want to buy a new build home and who only have a five per cent deposit.”
Some people have a way with words, others not have way.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
All the latest Groby WI News Lynne Mellor, one of our members, gave us a talk on patchwork, a hobby which she admits has become an addiction. At times, she is so engrossed that husband, Tony, understands that if they want to eat he has to don the apron and get cooking. Her opening remarks related the story of a frantic search for missing car keys and the normal inane remark from husbands “Where did you have them last”? She did arrive in time with the help of the spare set. She began with a short history of the craft. Knights of old, protected by armour plating would wear linen inner garments. These were not washed but hung in the latrines to “air”. It was thought that the smell of urine helped to dispel BO. Presumably, the dominant stench was the perfume of the day. ‘Other ranks’ wore gambesons, a padded quilted jerkin with small rivets inserted in vulnerable places. Cloth was a very valuable commodity, so much so that garments were stolen from the dead on the battlefield. (A useful tip introduced here, your own saliva can help to remove a blood stain). Vegetable dyes were used for colour, a time consuming process and only for the wealthier citizens. Their garments were quilted, using smaller pieces of brightly coloured shapes interspersed with the main rather drab fibres. Recycling was the order of the day, a garment would be remade into a new garment entirely several times over, finally being reduced to small scraps for patchwork. Lynne has had no training, just
decided to ‘have a go’. She does not aspire to winning competitions with intricate hand stitched hexagons. Her main equipment is quite basic, including a cutting board marked out in 1 inch squares (and the nearest equivalent metric), a marker and a very sharp cutting wheel and, of course, a sewing machine. Her first machine was a Singer hand-operated one costing £15, which Tony remodelled. She did stress here that all machine needles must be really sharp and should be changed regularly, choosing the correct type for the material being worked. (Good advice for all machinists whatever the project); a pair of gardening or cleaning gloves, the type with small raised plastic dots, were invaluable for holding the material when feeding it into the machine; an ironing board and iron, last but not least, a pair of bicycle clips! The latter is useful for holding rolled up larger items isolating a small area for working on. Lynne is a self-confessed hoarder and compulsive buyer of “stash” e.g. material suitable for patchwork. A treasured find is a ‘fat quarter’ which is a quarter of a yard: sorry, here I lost the plot and am not certain where the word ‘fat’ comes in. It seems that, like most of us, she has unfinished projects hiding in corners, often in the attic, which are definitely going to be finished - one day. The actual demonstration was easy to follow: two golden rules, accurate measuring and pressing every piece as you go along is essential. She did bring along some very beautiful items she had produced, including a smart
21
from Evelyn Ward & Margaret Gamble
waistcoat for Tony’s Morris Dancing activities. The articles produced were innovative: toys, bags for shopping and baby equipment etc. pillows and quilts. To conclude, the President said she would expect at least 50 items to be produced by members. Wishful thinking maybe, but certainly she did make a few of us think seriously about ‘having a go’. Our speaker very generously donated a lovely cushion as the raffle prize.
A lovely walk How many WI ladies does it take to circle an ancient oak? The answer is ten with arms outstretched. I asked a fellow volunteer at Calke Abbey who I often walk with and is a “local” girl if she would take a few ladies on a walk. Christine is a mine of knowledge and agreed so ten of us met up at Ticknall Village. Luckily the day was cold but dry and bright. Our walk took us up the tramway in Calke, which is in the process of being opened up. This tram trackway which includes small tunnels, was used when the lime works at Calke were working. Horses would pull the lime along tracks. There were various local lines but the Ticknall branch closed in l913. Up to this time, a load of coals had been carried from Ashby once a year to preserve the right of way. This coal was delivered to a Mrs. Smart who lived close to the line. This small line then ran behind her cottage towards the old brickworks which also made use of it. The Trust is hoping to get a circuit open to the public eventually. Anyway after leaving it and crossing fields we made our way
It doesn’t matter whether you win or lose until you lose.
to the Abbey Restaurant where a lovely cuppa was enjoyed. Then continuing we went down to Betty’s pond where the wild life is quite obvious. We then entered Lime Wood where the actual lime was mined. All that really remains are the pits where the lime was excavated and burned for about three days. Some pits have become ponds and one in particular was along side the Deer Park and much to our amazement deer were at the water along with herons and other water birds. They looked at us, we looked at them, for a while nobody moved, it was magical. The lime wood is gradually being cleared and rare species of flowers often grow. We finished up at the ancient oaks which date back hundreds of years. That is where we reverted to childhood and stood in a circle, hands clasped. It was a lovely walk and another one is in the planning.
Salt & Vinegar? We should have done this walk before our Luncheon Club went to Rothley Fish & Chip Shop. It was very busy and quite noisy but that was nothing until we arrived. All of us opted for the “minnow” size although I would have loved to have the whale size. It was nice to have a “plain” lunch with a big pot of tea and bread and butter. Next meeting is on March 15th in Groby Village Hall at 7.30 p.m. Pauline Fitchett is speaking on ‘Who passed it on to you’? It goes without saying, everyone very welcome.
Evelyn Ward and Margaret Gamble
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Crime Figures for Feb 2012 The following incidents were reported to the Police in the local area during February 2012. Description
Groby, Ratby, Glenfield, Kirby Muxloe, Markfield, Field Head & Surrounding Villages
House Burglaries Actual: Attempted: Garage, Shed, Outbuilding Burglaries Actual: Ratby Road Attempted: Ratby Road
Cash Injection For Business To Boost Youth Jobs The Deputy Prime Minister is calling on businesses to sign up to the government’s flagship £1bn Youth Contract so that they are ready to offer the jobs to young people in April. Thousands of companies have received a letter from the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Minister for Employment Chris Grayling, calling on them to play their part in getting young people earning or learning. The Deputy Prime Minister is announcing details of how employers can access cash to help cover the cost of taking on fresh talent through a ‘wage subsidy’. The subsidy will be paid to companies for taking on young unemployed people and is designed to cover costs like National Insurance contributions. The wage subsidy will: • Pay £2,275 to employers for every 18 – 24 year old unemployed person they employ from the Work Programme. • It is open to all businesses, voluntary organisations and charities. • Payments for the majority of business will be made after the young person has been employed for 26 weeks. • For smaller enterprises these payments will be staggered, with the first payment after 8 weeks and the rest after 26. This recognises that smaller businesses need a boost to their cashflow to make the jobs viable. • The wage incentive will also be available for part time positions, with a rate of £1,137.50 if someone is employed between 16 and 29 hours. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “Getting young people earning or learning is my top priority, and that’s what the Youth Contract is going to do. This is a long-term boost to help business get young people into jobs before long-term damage is done. “Employers have a huge part to play in this and the subsidy we’re announcing benefits business and young people. “I’m writing out to thousands of employers of all sizes – from global corporations to small local firms – calling on them to look at what we’re offering through the Youth Contract and sign up to offer jobs from April. This is a significant moment and a call to arms for businesses to offer longterm opportunities to young people who are out of work.” The Youth Contract, launched last November, aims to lift all young people out of unemployment. It will also support at least 20,000 extra incentive payments worth £1500 each for employers to take on young people as apprentices, taking the total number of payments available to 40,000. Employers can register their interest in supporting the Youth Contract and can find out more via the DWP website at www.dwp.gov.uk/youth-contract/
Groby
Field Head
0 Actual 0 Attempted
0
1 Actual 1 Attempted
0
Theft of Motor Vehicle:
0
0
Theft from Motor Vehicle: Ratby Road
1
0
Damage to Motor Vehicle: Sacheverell Way
1
0
Non-Domestic Assaults
2
0
Anti Social Behaviour Incidents
0
0
Crimes That Don’t Affect Residents Homes or Cars
8
0
TOTAL (Actual)
13
0
TOTAL (Attempted)
1
0
Indecency: 1 / Theft: 3 / Damage: 0 / Other: 4
Groby NHW Calendar of Events 2012 Groby Village Hall, New room to the rear of the main hall
Thursday 14th June 2012 at 7.30pm Thursday 13th September 2012 at 7.30pm Thursday 6th December 2012 at 7.30pm PC 0918 Ned Kelly • Sergeant Matthew Trott Local crime news in more detail is available at www.groby.org.uk Information supplied by Martin Cartwright, Secretary - Groby Branch Neighbourhood Watch Tel: 0116 2874500 • Mobile: 07850 707050 Email: neighbourhoodwatch@appliancehome.co.uk In An Emergency dial 999. Contact the local police on 0116 222-2222.
Don’t forget to send us your news! Email details to: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk and we’ll do our best to give you a mention. Tremendous!
It’s hard to face the problem, when the problem is your face.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Glenfield Millennium Green News
A Time for Celebration On 13th April 2002 the Glenfield Millennium Green was officially opened by the Rt Hon Stephen Dorrell MP. This date marked the end of major construction work on the Green and the whole area still looked rather open and bleak. Fortunately the previous autumn willing volunteers had planted 2,400 daffodil bulbs to create a Marie Curie ‘Field of Hope’ and these were in flower brightening up the woodland area. This April it is our 10th Anniversary and we have decided to celebrate on Easter Saturday, April 7th. The Green will be open from 10.30am when the Easter Egg Hunt for younger children begins (it finishes at 12.00 noon). The Chairs of our local councils are expected to attend as well representatives of local organisations and businesses who have supported us. There will be a display of photographs to show the way the area has matured during the last few years. We hope to plant a tree to mark the occasion and have a ‘Birthday’ cake to share. Other refreshments will be available during the morning. The cost for children who want to enter the Easter Egg Hunt is £1.50 and all entrants will receive an egg when they complete the ‘hunt’. Every child will then be entered into a prize draw at the end of the morning for a larger Prize. Children must be accompanied by an adult - there is no charge for adults! Easter Bonnets may be worn and decorated eggs can be rolled down the grassy slopes during the morning. (You do need to bring your own decorated eggs.) Come and join us to celebrate this important piece of ‘open space’ in Glenfield and if the weather is kind we hope you will stay and wander round for a while.
Christine Tordoff
Chairman Glenfield Millennium Green Trust
Titanic - The Shocking Truth A remarkable truth is revealed!
On 15th of April 1912, the Titanic - the largest moving object ever fashioned by the hand of man hit an iceberg on its maiden voyage and sank in the middle of the North Atlantic, 1507 were lost. The tragedy has been well documented in books and on films; it is a story which has left many questions unanswered.
‘Titanic- The shocking truth’ explores the conspiracy theory that the Titanic never sank to the bottom of the Atlantic. The film is based upon research and includes evidence of both the British and American inquiries, eye witness reports of survivors, newspapers, photographs, film and radio of the day. For the first time a fresh look is taken into the mystery surrounding the Titanic and reveals evidence that leads to a compelling and shocking hypothesis that the ship that plummets two miles to the bottom of the sea was not Titanic but the sister ship the Olympic. The documentary throws light on the reconstruction of the events behind the disaster and the reasons for it. Were White Line and the British Government responsible for possibly one of the greatest frauds and sea tragedies in living history? Street Car Motion Pictures ‘Titanic – The Shocking Truth’, a Barrie Kiel production of an Andrew Newton Film an directed by Tim Spring is out very soon.
It now costs more to amuse a child than it once did to educate his father.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Letter from Uncle Eustace
Ratby Village Society
On the perils of the church picnic
Ratby Village Society meetings start at 8pm in the Village Hall Main Street, Ratby, on the third Tuesday monthly except July and December when there are no meetings.
The Rectory St. James the Least
My dear Nephew Darren A Spring parish picnic is always a good idea – although you must bear some details in mind.
The AGM takes place in February. Admission for members is £1.60 and casual guests £2.50 with refreshments included. All welcome. Tuesday 17th April - This is one meeting no one should miss. ‘The Secret Diary of Susiecue aged 65¾’. Entertaining and light-hearted memories of a baby boomer as recounted in her inimitable style by the one and only Susan Heath.
First, whatever date you choose will turn out be the wettest of the year. English picnics are invariably eaten under umbrellas while wearing Wellingtons and the sort of determinedly cheerful look that defies anyone to admit they would rather be home in front of the fire. Second, no matter how early in the year, wasps will emerge from hibernation in huge numbers, and terrorise Mrs Hornby with the picnic baskets. And thirdly, someone will bring along their (hungry) dog. Last time Colonel Psmith’s spaniel outdid herself: she leapt up, head butted a piece of Madeira cake out of Mrs Horngirdle’s hand - and ate the lot – before even a crumb could touch the ground. A good piece of field work, that. Half way through the afternoon, some over-excited member of the party will decide to arrange a game of rounders. (Mr Poppinjay tried this once one year, as in his youth he had been athletic. Fortunately, the ambulance got there quickly, and the ankle healed well.) Then the mothers who join in will completely ignore the ball sailing past them, while they discuss some burning topic of Mother’s Union gossip. In the meantime, the young choir members, who were the reason for arranging the game in the first place, will have drifted off to the lake to throw stones at the ducks while no one is looking. For our annual picnic, I use my own car, making sure it is so full of clerical robes and church magazines that one else can fit in. Throughout the day, I keep returning to it to make sure no one has broken in to steal the Communion wine – and taking the opportunity to catch up on the cricket scores. By the middle of the afternoon, I usually remember that some urgent duty, such as blessing a traction engine, demands my departure. The rest of the party, by now soaked, cold and knowing the coach to take them home is still several hours off, only wish they had such demanding work to tear them away.
Ratby ‘s Annual Show 2012 Ratby’s Annual Show for 2012 will take place on Saturday 11th August in the Church Rooms, Ratby. More classes to enter and more certificates to win this year. You don’t have to live in Ratby to enter. Everyone very welcome.
Your loving uncle,
Jane Rayne
Eustace
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Just when I was getting used to yesterday, along came today.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Dates for your Diary is running various Olympic-themed ‘More Than Gold’ Events
for the community of Groby over the next few months.
www.bradgateteam.org.uk/groby www.grobyurc.com
Each event has a different focus and we’d love to see you at our April & May events! Look out for further information around the village as these events come up.
April
Sports Quiz 21st April For all ages. There will be a quiz for adults/teenagers & activities for children. Please contact Matthew Smith 0116 2236238 for more details or to enter a team (max. 8 per team) Individuals can be placed into teams on the night
May
Free Family Fun Day 27th May 2pm – 5pm
Followed by Church Outdoors: 5.30pm-6.30pm
Events so far...
February Chattabox goes for Gold ran during half term with over 80 primary school aged children coming along each day for fun, games, craft and much more! Learning all about what it means to be on Jesus’ Team.
March
We had an excellent production at Groby Community College; a fun filled night with friends & family.
Let us so live that when we die even the undertaker will be sorry.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby Gardening Society News The Hardy Perennials of the Society! On the evening of the 9th February, the weather forecast was not good: Snow was on the cards. Yet still many society members braved the elements to attend the talk given by Jenny Charles from The Watermead Rangers. Jenny is a Ranger at Watermead Country Park and works for the County side of Watermead Country Park. She gave a superb talk by commencing with the beginning of the seasons. She chose February as the Herons begin their breeding ritual and she illustrated their nesting patterns, and showed how they reuse old nests. Watermead apparently has the largest heronry in Leicester. The bird life at Watermead is very diverse with Cormorants, warblers, Waxwings and of course the ubiquitous Robin along with the occasional visiting Mandarin Duck. All can all be seen at different times of the year. The Grand Union Canal flows through the park, as does the River Soar, and both help to support the numerous forms of wildlife in the park. Muntjac deer and occasionally Roe deer can be seen along with rabbits, stoats and weasels. There is also a Wild flower meadow supporting a varied array of flowers such as the Bee Orchid, Ragged Robin, Cowslips and Scabious.
session. The evening made all aware of what is actually on our doorstep and it would not be surprising if many of the members present did pay a visit quite shortly to enjoy this lovely park.
Looking ahead Our annual plant sale is on May 19th (Saturday morning) and members, hopefully, are giving thought to the plants they can contribute. The success of this venture relies quite heavily on the quantity and quality of our home-grown plants be they vegetables, flowering plants or houseplants. The planning for the annual Village Show, although a few months away, is well advanced and although future editions of Spotlight will have more information, the Show Schedule is now available to view on the Spotlight website. Hard copies will be available from the library. The committee do wish to apologise to those patient exhibitors who were unduly relayed in the registration process last year. We have now re-vamped our procedure and registration will be much slicker and speedier.
Forthcoming events
In the Annual meadow, Corncockle (above), Poppy and Daisies are in abundance in the summer months. Reed beds of approx. 3 – 4 acres can be found in the Wetland area along with bird hides for viewing. There are fifteen reed sections in all and they cut approx. four sections per year for thatching and fencing purposes. The slides, which Jenny herself had taken, were of excellent quality and her extensive knowledge of the wildlife and flora in the park was extremely impressive. This fascinating talk generated a very lively question and answer
•
March 8th: Woods and Forests
•
April 12th: Sempervivum and Hardy Sedums
•
May 10th: An Evening with Ken Whittaker (or “dos and don’ts in the garden”)
•
May 19th (a.m.): The Plant Sale in the Village Hall We always welcome new members and casual guests at our monthly meetings that are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month, usually in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill. Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Alvar Johnson. (Tel. No. 01162877870) or E mail alvar3@talktalk.net
Alvar Johnson
Marriage - is an expensive way of getting your laundry done for free.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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EXTREME WORDSEARCH Win a Sunday Lunch for Four at CAFE 7, Within Sevenoaks Nursery, Groby Lane, Newtown Linford.
M.E Or Not M.E - That Is The Question During the summer of 1994 while on a mission to Albania, David Townsend noticed the upper part of his feet starting to swell. From then on he began to notice his memory failing, for he could not recall key words in a sentence during a conversation. Each time he took a holiday or short break he became ill, having to retire to his bed for a day or so. On return from a holiday near York in the May of 1999, he went down with a serious bout of flu, which laid him up in bed for three months. He found it unbearable to move or turn over in bed, for his whole body ached continually as all his limbs were swollen, as well as having a constant headache. He became hypersensitive to people, sound and light, and had to shut himself away in the dark, with no creative energy to even think. In the medical world there is a great divide as to what M.E/C.F.S is or is not. After his first blood test, the doctor asked David if he was a heavy drinker. The question David had to ask himself was what was going on? David as a sufferer of M.E (CFS) with first-hand experience, in a very vivid and simple way, explains the nature and causes of the illness and how he had to adopt a new lifestyle in order for his health to recover so quickly. Loss of his job and taking early retirement meant they were now living beyond their means with lack of money never too far from view. But God had His hand on all their finances in order to accomplish his purposes. With professional help from an eminent specialist, once David was diagnosed as having M.E (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) also known as C.F.S (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) he soon began his slow recovery. Two and a half years into the illness David was diagnosed as having Genetic Hemochromatosis, a technical term for iron overload of the blood, an inherited condition of the liver, which manifests symptoms nearly identical to M.E hence the reason for the title to the book “M.E or not M.E – That is the question”. Now David knew why the doctor asked are you a heavy drinker - too much iron in the blood. Taking a pint of blood away at regular intervals, David’s energy increased dramatically. David, who is now retired, was introduced to cognitive therapy which enables him to lead a relatively comfortable and active lifestyle. At the onset of the illness the Lord spoke to David in a dream. The Lord led him to Psalm 139 where the writer reminded him and encouraged him from verse five by saying “you have laid your hand upon me”. Throughout all that David went through during the illness, he and his wife Chris had no fears about the future. They saw the healing power of God. David describes how the hand of the Lord was with them, protecting, supporting, guiding and leading them every step of the way. This time of being set aside has enabled David to redirect his energy into serving the Lord. During the illness, David wrote a book on his childhood, “Growing up on the Farm”, as well as building his own Christian teaching website www.bridge-of-life.co.uk while he and Chris now minister and counsel together. In the final chapters, David describes how well he recovered and recounts how he and Chris were able to go on a number of short missions to Romania, which gives glory to God’s healing power. I once owned a car designed for twelve people. One drove, and the other eleven took turns pushing it.
U S C O O T E R I N G B R Y G
F J B A X Q O C T N O U M D N
B J M B J S J B I D L Q A Z I
R M P Y H D F N Y C J K O C D
Z Y X A R U N B A D S S D L I
I L X F R U O N E W U S C I L
G N I D R A O B E T A K S F G
U P L E R E G U T I C Y P F G
K P E D I G E L G V J O L J N
P R I N J C X S I V B E S U A
F N G E N I J C T D Z S J M H
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S S O R C O T O M Q L N J I N
B A S E J U M P I N G E G N L
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Name: .................................................................................................
BASEJUMPING BMXFREESTYLE Address: ................................................................................................ BODYBOARDING CANOEING .................................................................Postcode: ............................. CLIFFJUMPING FREERUNNING If you can find 12 TYPES OF EXTREME SPORTS in the HANGGLIDING Wordsearch grid above, you could win a SUNDAY LUNCH KITESURFING MAIN COURSE FOR FOUR at CAFE SEVEN, Sevenoaks Garden MOTOCROSS Centre, Near Groby Pool. PARAGLIDING All you have to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line through SCOOTERING - the names of 12 EXTREME SPORTS. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). SKATEBOARDING
Send your marked entry forms to: FRIT TO DEATH, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Wednesday 4th April 2012. Please remember to fill in your name and address. The sender of the first correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the CAFE SEVEN voucher. Good luck!
Here are the EXTREME SPORTS you have to find: BASE JUMPING • BMX FREESTYLE • BODYBOARDING CANOEING • CLIFF JUMPING • FREE RUNNING HANG GLIDING • KITESURFING • MOTOCROSS PARAGLIDING • SCOOTERING • SKATEBOARDING
Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The winner of last month’s Wordearch competition was: MRS. A.TOONE of Carmen Grove, Groby. You win a Sunday Lunch Main Course for Four at Cafe Seven, Sevenoaks Garden Centre, near Groby Pool.
Congratulations! Your prize will be with you soon.
My mind contains many good ideas, but it’s not always easy to squeeze one out.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Sports Award Winners
Dig for food and pleasure: ‘allotmenteering’ in Groby Long-established allotment holders John and Shirley Aucott spoke to fellow allotment gardener Richard Cox. This is their story ...
SPORTS enthusiasts from across the district gathered at Bosworth College, Desford for the borough’s annual sports awards celebrations. Now in its fifth year, the scheme celebrates the sporting achievements of individuals and teams as well as the contribution made by the volunteers who help to run many of the clubs and events held in the borough. Sue Houghton, Chair of the Hinckley and Bosworth Local Sport and Health Alliance, said: “I know that within Hinckley and Bosworth we have a great depth of talent from the volunteers, who give of their time and expertise so freely, to the talent performers who are members of our clubs. “As a Sports and Health Alliance we want to celebrate, acknowledge and support the great talent we have in the borough.” The awards were presented by the Mayor of the Borough, Councillor Rob Mayne, who is also the council’s Sporting and Health Champion, together with Rendell Munroe, who is the WBA International Super Bantamweight boxing champion. During the evening, Jill and Jane Stidever talked about their experiences participating and coaching in six Paralympics.
WINNERS: The Mayor, Councillor Rob Mayne (right foreground) presents the awards. The award winners were: • Sportsman of the Year Jamie Thorpe (swimming) • Sportswomen of the Year Louise Gibson (boxing) • Disabled Sportsman of the Year - Tom Gatheridge (football) • Junior Sportsman of the Year - Chris Nealon (all round athlete) • Junior Sportswoman of the Year - Esther Stock (cricket) • Disabled Sportsman of the Year (U16) - Matthew Chilvers (tennis) • Club of the Year Leicestershire and Rutland Youth Sailing Association • Veteran Sportswoman Nikki Nealon (athletics) • Veteran Sportsman Michael Wills (cycling) • Active Lifestyle Award Anita Aston • Health Referral Award Paula Buck • Young Volunteer of the Year - Liam Poxon (sailing) • Adult Volunteer of the Year - Nick Griffin (boxing) • Unsung Heroes Bob Darnbrook (rugby) • Lifetime Achievement Jayne Marlow (netball) • Making a Difference Award - Alec Mattie (tennis)
Anstey Folk Club Singaround 1st Sunday every month at 8.30pm Old Hare & Hounds, Bradgate Road, Anstey. All welcome
If royalty can waste good champagne on naming ocean-going liners then it is fitting for Groby allotment holders John and Shirley Aucott to ‘launch’ their new shed! And they did it in style with bunting and homemade wine, and invites for the neighbours. Shirley and John – for this is definitely a joint enterprise – have been allotment holders on Ratby Road for nearly 10 years. Their dedication not only resulted in winning the Best Allotment in their first year, but three times since then – although never aiming to be competitive. Now retired, John was a teacher at Groby Community College for 24 years, and Shirley was a university and WEA tutor (although she is still specialising in women’s history and has had several books published), they can devote more time to their allotment. “There are so many reasons why we enjoy the allotment, but one aspect is the social side. When we had the new shed ‘opening’ it was a joint event with our neighbour Yvonne and Mike Randall, who also had a new shed, and we were able to invite lots of people from the nearby allotments. Everybody brought something to eat or drink and we had lavender cake and gooseberry wine – all produce grown by allotment holders. “It’s also great therapy. Shirley and I enjoy walking, and working on the allotment means we get even more fresh air, and the digging is good for me. When we started the allotment saving money was one of the drivers and we invested in a large chest freezer: the result is that we are pretty much self-sufficient, certainly as far as vegetables and soft fruit are concerned. Stored properly, we will be eating allotment-grown potatoes and shallots well into March, and then the year begins again. “One of the things we really enjoy is growing different varieties of vegetables and every year we try something different. The garden centre in Anstey seems to have dozens of different varieties of potatoes and onions, so there is always something new. Over the years we have also started to understand the importance of different plants, such as herbs, marigolds and Californian poppies to attract beneficial insects. We have always been interested in the environment, and ‘growing our own’ means we can have a much more hands-on approach – and our carbon footprint is going to be a lot lower than if we had to go out shopping for fruit and veg.” John and Shirley are not obsessive growers and they do not follow the dedicated mantra of organic enthusiasts, but they try and be as organic as possible. They also show great interest in the activities of other allotment holders, not just in Groby, but everywhere they go – even on holiday. “In France we noticed that all the allotments were owned and managed by councils and each had its own shed in exactly the same design. We enjoy seeing what other people are able to grow in different climates and on different soils. For us, allotment gardening is a serene, calming activity in the fresh air and we love to walk around in the early morning and late evening in summer just to see the allotments at different times. “If I have any advice for people starting on an allotment it is to understand that this hobby demands a lot of time and it can become an obsession for some. When we started we were semi-retired and finding the time was not easy; now we are fully retired we seem to be busier than ever, but we also spend more on the allotment. There are so many reasons why being allotment holders is enjoyable. Our main incentive is to grow and eat our own vegetables and fruit, but there is also a lot of pleasure to be had from the socialising with other allotment holders and looking at what others are doing,” John adds.
Enjoyed reading this issue of Spotlight? then please pass it on to a friend or relative after you’ve finished with it. Thanks!
My worst day of vacation has always been better than my best day at work.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Watch out! Allotment shed thieves are about Security should not be an issue on the allotments, but unfortunately it is. Attempts have been made to break in and, while these have so far failed, there has been some damage. The solution is to ensure locks and bolts are secure – and if there is any sign of attempted break-ins report it to the police immediately. This allotment shed (right) with its steel bar and toughened locks, will deter any would-be thieves.
John Thornton & Richard Cox
Churches Together in Groby Fair Cuppa:
an opportunity to meet with friends at the village hall. Every Thursday, 10.30-12.00
Catch Play, craft, story & chat for pre-school children with a parent/carer. Every Friday in term time, 9.30 – 11.30am, at the URC.
For further information please see websites and church magazines St. Philip and St. James www.bradgateteam.org.uk Revd. Louise Corke 231 3090 United Reformed Church www.grobyurc.com Mrs Norma Whittaker 287 6606 Children/Youth Worker Deb Goodhead 07730 596309
Urban Saints During term time, held at the URC chapel: games, friends, crafts and a Christian basis to discussions. - for 5’s to 14’s on Mon evenings at 3.45pm, 6.30pm or 7.45pm - for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm - for 15-18’s o Fri at 7.30pm More details on the church websites
No one ever injured his eyesight by looking on the bright side of thngs.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Anyone for tennis?
Open Day at tennis club
A local tennis club is holding an Open Day on Sunday 25th March 2012. Leicester Forest East Tennis Club is a well established club based just off the Hinckley Road in LFE. The Club has excellent facilities with two indoor hard courts, four outdoor artificial grass courts (2 floodlit) and a modern clubhouse with fully licensed bar. Both the Club’s senior and junior sections are well represented in the various leagues and competitions and the Club also has a broad coaching provision delivered by GSM Leisure. In January 2012 the Club received planning permission from Blaby District Council to add floodlights to courts 1 and 2. The Club is also planning to resurface courts 1 to 3 and is actively in discussions for funding for these developments. For more information about the Open Day, see the advert on page 2 of this issue of Spotlight. For further information about LFE Tennis Club visit www.lfe-tennis.co.uk. Come and Enjoy a
Three Course Home Made Meal & help raise money for Markfield Churches In the Congregational Hall Main Street, Markfield On Friday 23rd March 2012 From 6.30pm
British Gas Launches £50 Initative For Insulation Referrals British Gas will offer £50 to those who pass on the names of an older person or family on benefits who could benefit from insulation. The energy company British Gas has announced a new initiative to identify the elderly and households on benefits for insulation. The move, which offers £50 to anyone who passes on the name of an elderly or person or family on benefits, is part of a drive to get insulation into half a million vulnerable homes by next year. Those who qualify for the British Gas offer must be either on Pension Credit, receiving Child Tax Credit below £16,190, or on certain income-related benefits. The announcement follows a range of recent insulation offers - including a similar free insulation deal from e-ON - owing to government targets of halving carbon emissions by 2025, and the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT). Home insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy bills, making homes warmer and more energy-efficient. It is estimated both loft and wall insulation could save the average home up to £310 a year on energy bills, second-only to the £420 you could save by switching your energy.
Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) CERT is an obligation that all energy suppliers have to fulfill to help reduce cut carbon emissions. Under the CERT scheme, energy suppliers provide grants and discounts to their customers to pay for things like loft insulation and wall insulation. Grants through CERT schemes are made widely available, but there is a continuing focus on vulnerable customers. 40% of funding is spent on the ‘priority group’ and grants to this group are typically 100% of costs, whereas grants to non-priority groups tend to be for a proportion of costs. CERT will run until December 2012 when it will be replaced by a new scheme, the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), which is intended to support the government’s Green Deal; this will focus exclusively on the poorest and most vulnerable households.
Home Made Soup, Or Home Made pate, ******** Lamb or Beef served with potato & seasonal vegetables, Or Zesty haddock with crushed potatoes & peas ******** Chocolate gateau Or Rhubarb & coconut meringue tart ******** Tickets £9.00 each for all 3 courses or £7.00 for 2 courses
For more information and book a place Tel Brenda on 01530 242173
Success is getting up just one more time than you fall down.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-MARCH 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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*To Existing Fittings. **Excludes Refrigeration
WAS £549.99 Save £50
NOW £499.99 ANSTEY
HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ CREDA ~ WHIRLPOOL ~ ZANUSSI ~ INDESIT ~ BELLING ~ HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ ELECTROLUX
HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ CREDA ~ WHIRLPOOL ~ ZANUSSI ~ INDESIT ~ BELLING ~ HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ ELECTROLUX ~
WASHING MACHINES ~ FRIDGE FREEZERS ~ FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ~ TUMBLE DRYERS ~ COOKERS ~ OVENS ~
WASHING MACHINES ~ FRIDGE FREEZERS ~ FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ~ TUMBLE DRYERS ~ COOKERS ~ OVENS ~