MAY 2021 HERALD MAGAZINE by Michael Wilkinson

MID-MAY 2021

Markfield, Field Head, Stanton-under-Bardon, Thornton & Bagworth

Coffee Connect Launches across Leicestershire & Rutland WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL saw the successful launch of the Rural Coffee Connect project with a fantastic turnout at the Markfield Community and Sports Centre.

The Rural Community Council (RCC) team offered drinks to guests whilst sharing the exciting plans for the van during spring, summer and beyond. A resident of Markfield mentioned “Shrugging-off the rather cold and windy weather, an invited group of Markfield residents enjoyed the excellent hospitality provided by the RCC’s “Coffee Connect Van” when it visited the Markfield Community and Sports Centre on 21st April. I very much enjoyed my first proper Latte in many months and catching-up with friends and colleagues from across the village.” The project offers complimentary, high quality coffee and hot drinks in an informal, friendly space with a simple ‘coffee and chat’ approach. Their pop-up visits bring people together and support individuals in building mutual connections with neighbours and existing local services. Through community capacity building, Coffee Connect staff aim to help identify and facilitate the set-up of long-term assets and services to support stronger, more connected communities. Here at the RCC, we recognise that anyone can feel lonely, and therefore anyone can take steps in their everyday life to reach out and help others in their local community suffering from loneliness. We offer FREE Zoom based training sessions which are designed to help act by explaining the common causes and effects of loneliness, talking through ways to reach out, connect and help others that may be experiencing loneliness and sharing useful links, tools, and resources to help tackle loneliness. More information regarding our work is available on our website: https://www.ruralcc.org.uk/loneliness To find out more about the van or enquire about a visit to your community call the Coffee Connect team on 01455 856330 or email connect@ruralcc.org.uk.

Letter Thank you!

I’M WRITING to thank several people who stopped to offer help when I fell on Ashby Road in Markfield on 10th April and damaged my wrist. In particular the lady who very kindly drove myself and my husband back to our car two miles away. We’d also like to thank a cycling club who offered chocolate and sympathy. Final outcome, broken wrist. Thanks again.

Mrs. Wardle

County Council Election Result for Markfield, Desford & Thornton PETER ALEXANDER BEDFORD (Con) 2091 Andy Furlong (Lab)

951

Robin Webber-Jones (LibDem)

608

Matthew Alan Thorogood(Green)

175

Bill Piper (Reform UK)

Total No. of Votes

3868

Turnout 38.67%

Conservative candidate Peter Alexander Bedford was elected.

Bagworth Community Centre Vacancies

Bagworth needs you

THE MEMBERS of Bagworth Community Centre Trust are looking for people to fill one of two posts.

The first post is a paid job. As life starts to slowly return to normal the Trust are looking forward to welcoming people back to our fantastic centre. Some have already come back to us. To support a smooth return to normal the members of the Trust have a vacancy for a CENTRE ADMINISTRATOR to support the trust. If you have experience in admin, finance and customer service and are interested in 10 hours a week worked early evenings across 4 out of 5 evenings a week for a competitive salary - we want to hear from you. If you would like further information or wish to apply please send your CV to Steve at hr@bagworthcommunitycentre.org by Friday 28th May. The second post is unpaid and involves becoming a MEMBER OF THE TRUST which successfully runs Bagworth Community Centre. Some of our members are retired, others continue to work in paid employment. What we do share is a desire to see the Community Centre being managed successfully. Different members have different strengths which they bring to the table. The Trust tends to play to these strengths. If you would like to join this team or have questions about joining the team, please contact info@bagworthcommunitycentre.org or phone Bob on 01530 230429.

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For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

Early morning visitor to Launde Road Green

Bradgate Rotary News Thank you Groby for giving nature a helping hand!

BRADGATE ROTARY want to thank the families and individuals from Groby who took part in their environmental project at the CIC field by making wildflower bombs using clay and flower seeds.

The families then visited the field to throw them in the prepared area on the site. Several families also volunteered to take some pre-prepared seed growing kits to propagate the seeds in preparation for transplanting in June at a celebration event. The hope is to encourage more wild-flowers into the environment, encourage bugs and insects and to help the bird population by providing more bird boxes. Bradgate Rotary are on the lookout for any handy persons who would like to help with making birdboxes to encourage more birds to the trees and hedgerows in the field and other areas of the village.

Hero Scarecrows coming to Groby FOR THE DOG walkers and early risers, Markfield has a recent resident to Launde Road Green who has not only surprised walkers but, is not something you would expect close to housing.

THE WEEKEND of September 11th/12th Bradgate Rotary we’ll hold The Groby Scarecrow event with a theme of “Heroes”, which should give a wide scope and acknowledge the great work done by the NHS, essential workers, and heroes in the community. Further details will be on the Bradgate Rotary website and Face Book sites over the next couple of months. Profits from the event will be going to Bradgate Rotary charities, including LOROS Hospice and Leicester Children’s Holidays.

Often seen on the ground or in one of the local trees, a bold Buzzard frequents the top right corner of the green. However, it flies off as soon as it is approached by a curious dog or owner. On one occasion it decided to fly off and land in a tree close by - to the surprise of a nesting pair of Magpies who soon sent it packing or more likely “buzzing off ”. The photographs show the hunched up Buzzard before it took flight and the Magpies attacking the unwanted visitor to their nesting place.

Come and join us and make a difference to your community

Colin Baker, Markfield

ADVANCE NOTICE is being given of a Gardens in Bloom competition in August to bring colour and joy to the area.

The beginnings of Boots the Chemist JESSE BOOT, the British pharmacist and philanthropist, died 90 years ago, on 13th June 1931.

He turned the Boots Company started by his father John – a former agricultural worker – into a chain of chemists branded ‘Chemists to the Nation’. The 1st Baron Trent, as Jesse became in 1929, sold his controlling interest to American investors in 1920, but Boots continues to be a familiar name to all Britons. Ironically John Boot had offered his close friend and business associate John Harston the opportunity of going into business with him, but Harston had felt it was not a good investment. Jesse Boot was a great benefactor to the City of Nottingham. He gave land for what is now the University of Nottingham and was presented with the Freedom of the City of Nottingham in 1920. He met his wife, Florence Rowe, in a Wesleyan Chapel in Jersey while he was recuperating from illness. She was also an astute businesswoman, who helped to develop the Boots business, and her home island of Jersey benefited from the couple’s generosity. After her husband’s death she commissioned the glass artist René Lalique to refit the Anglican church of St Matthew there as a memorial to him.

ANYONE INTERESTED in joining their local Rotary and helping the community please email your contact details to Adrian Walker – walk77a@yahoo.com

Gardens in Bloom with Bradgate Rotary

Bradgate Rotary Club are looking to hold the garden competition across the five villages of Groby, Ratby, Glenfield, Markfield, Anstey and Newtown Linford. There will be several different categories and entrants will be asked to submit photos to the Bradgate Rotary website. The terms and conditions will be available very soon.

Why don’t autobiographies end with the person writing the book?

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

The Herald Message from Dr Luke Evans MP PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT Tel: 01530 244069 info@markfieldherald.co.uk www.markfieldherald.co.uk

The Herald is a monthly local magazine delivered free to approximately 4,000 homes and businesses in Markfield, Field Head, Stanton under Bardon, Thornton and Bagworth. Contact Mike Wilkinson with your articles, news items or advertising enquiries. Printed by Norwood Press in Ellistown. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Herald Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. The Herald cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. The Herald reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © The Herald. None of the articles or adverts contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from The Herald.

BEING A MEMBER of Parliament is, of course, a full time job but the workload does lighten a little during parliamentary recess.

The House of Commons has just returned following its Easter break, and having a few days holiday I took the opportunity to use my medical skills volunteer as a vaccinator. Let me start out by saying that because of the nature of my work I have only done a few shifts, there are many volunteers who have done far more than me, and they are doing a truly amazing job. But it is lovely vaccinating at the vaccination centre. The fact that you are wearing facemask and scrubs, not to mention the context of the environment, means a large amount of anonymity personally. It is only when I introduced myself there was an occasional eyebrow raise, and even then only a handful of people asked ‘Are you the MP?’ and in most cases that was because I have met and helped them before (maybe I need to do better on my public profile I quipped to myself!) Working in politics you get used to the idea that whilst many will agree with the things that you say, others very stridently do not. Volunteering at the vaccination centre couldn’t be more different. Everyone is absolutely lovely, everyone is so grateful to be there – you wouldn’t have thought so many people were excited to have an injection – time and time again you hear words of thanks and praise, but probably more importantly time and time again you see faces filled with relief. In truth the essence of what a vaccination centre is like can be captured in just one word. Optimism. For the first time in over a year there are very real reasons to be optimistic. Many elderly were out for the first time and that itself brought joy. Case numbers and the tragic death rate have reduced significantly. The evidence is building up, compellingly so, that vaccines not only reduce the risk of dying or being hopsitalised from Covid-19 but also may reduce transmission of it too. And our world, emerging from the grim depths of winter, is opening up as well. Our schools opened first - with no evidence of a new spike - then our golf courses, sports clubs, pubs, libraries and shops. There’s hope and optimism for holidays and filled stadia and hugging our loved ones. Everyone of us knows and understands the dark times that we have been through personally, but also – even with unparalleled support from government – the tough times local businesses have had. As we continue to open up please do support them as much as you possibly can. Try and shop with a local independent retailer – we’ve got lots of brilliant ones around Hinckley and Bosworth; support our pubs and restaurants and once it reopens why not book tickets to a show at the Concordia? My time spent volunteering at the vaccination centre has been wonderful, not just because of the atmosphere inside the building but for what it represents too. It feels at last that we have turned a corner.

Dr Luke Evans MP Member of Parliament for Bosworth House of Commons | London | SW1A 0AA w: drlukeevans.org.uk t: constituency: 01455 635741 parliament: 0207 219 4250 m: 07920 619812 twitter: @drlukeevans Instagram: drlukeevans

Don’t forget to send us your news. Thanks!

Aparently, three and a half out of seven people overcomplicate things.

For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

The Power of Hope By Kate Garraway

IN MARCH 2020, Kate Garraway’s husband, Derek Draper, contracted Covid-19 and was placed in a medicallyinduced coma.

Initially, Kate was told that he would not survive. A year later he was still in hospital. Now at home but requiring round-the-clock care, he is thought to be the UK’s longest-fighting Covid-19 patient. In this intimate book, Kate shares her deeply personal story. As well as recounting how the illness took hold of their lives, she writes about how she is coping with the uncertainty of their future, how she’s supporting her children through this traumatic time, how she has found strength in community and how she strives to hold on to hope even at the darkest of times. Covid-19 has affected everyone across the country in so many ways and Kate hopes that by revealing her own personal experience, it will give comfort to others. By sharing the lessons she has learnt along the way, it will help us all begin to try to re-build our lives. Kate’s exceptional courage, positivity and warmth shine through on every page, making The Power of Hope a truly inspiring read that will resonate with all of us whose lives continue to be touched by the virus.

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

I don’t mind going to work. It’s the eight hour wait to go home that annoys me.

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

A511 Strategic Growth Corridor Project is likely to create local traffic problems Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in The Herald CLOSE TO the Amazon depot at Ellistown are new signs indicating that development is set to begin on 2000 new homes.

NOTES: ALL LEVELS RELATE TO ORDNANCE SURVEY DATUM, DERIVED BY GPS (THEY MAY NOT CORRELATE WITH ORDNANCE SURVEY BENCHMARK VALUES).

New part-time signals

ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS ON DRAWINGS TO BE REPORTED TO LCC ENGINEER / PM AS SOON AS IDENTIFIED.

Key: New kerb line Road marking New back of footway Footway Carriageway

junctions. The Flying Horse proposals are hugely controversial as they envisage stopping traffic from Stanton going right or straight over to Copt Oak on the roundabout. Instead traffic will be directed left down to the Bardon roundabout to come back up (adding to more pressure on that stretch of road). Extent of works

0 A5

These estates are being called Hugglescote Grange and Swinfen Vale and will essentially engulf the land surrounding Ellistown and Hugglescote. This is on top of already massive developments taking place at Hugglescote and industrial warehousing at Bardon. No doubt all of this development will bring about yet more increase in traffic onto the A511 which is the main road artery for the locality. It is a huge development and comes on top of everything else that is getting permission for development. One of the main drivers for all this development happening close to the A511 is the so called A511 strategic growth corridor. This so-called project is already having adverse impacts on Markfield and Stanton and yet apart from one pubic consultation event in Markfield, nothing more has been communicated and it is a strategic programme which I believe is fundamentally flawed.

MARKFIELD LEICES

LANE

TER RO

A50

LA U

Additonal lane EST LEIC

REVISION APPROVED

AMENDMENT

SIGNED/DATE

REV.

Clearly harmful

The proposals at the Field Head roundabout are essentially creating a traffic light-controlled roundabout. Both schemes run the risk of making problems worse for local residents. The Flying Horse proposal has little to commend it from a local resident perspective, it is a scheme that is clearly harmful to local residents. The Field Head scheme on the face of it looks an improvement until you study it further and realise that improving access onto the roundabout for Markfield residents is not the primary purpose of the scheme. Instead it is to decrease the time spent travelling along the A50, not the time for local resident to get onto the A50. The problems are also not going to get better with new planned developments despite the huge payment being given by the developer Jelson to the County Council for the roundabout works. It is possible that the scheme design will change, but having looked at the latest weblink for the scheme it is unchanged from when the consultation took place in 2019 https://www.leicestershire. gov.uk/roads-and-travel/roadmaintenance/a511-growthcorridor-scheme It’s one thing telling us we need to accept more development but why should local communities suffer more than they need to? These marginal gains from proposed highway works are so marginal they will barely be noticed if indeed they ever are. Its more likely that the traffic situation will get much much worse. Something really needs to change otherwise we will pay a heavy price.

OAD ER R

ANN CARRUTHERS DIRECTOR ENVIRONMENT AND TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT

LEICESTERSHIRE HIGHWAYS

FS 33973

New part-time signals

CLIENT:

Assets and Major Programmes TITLE:

A511 GROWTH CORRIDOR FEASIBILITY LAYOUT

A511/FIELD HEAD ROUNDABOUT Consultation Drawing DRAWING NUMBER

SCALE

NOT TO SCLAE

MRN A511-000_FIELD HEAD/H1/1/1 PREPARED

BY:

CHECKED

BY:

APPROVED BY:

B Wilson

18/09/19

DATE SIZE

A Dunn

CORR. FILE

J Walker & P Clarke

MRN A511-000

AUTOCAD PROJECT DIR:

N:\Proj Majors\MRN A511\PM\Drgs\Consultation\Field Head

AUTOCAD FILENAME:

MRN A511.000_Field Head/H1/1/1

COUNTY HALL * GLENFIELD * LEICESTER * LE3 8RJ

Tel:0116 305 0001 Direct Dial 0116 305 0001 Fax 0116 305 0001 E.Mail address:

FIELD HEAD ROUNDABOUT PROPOSALS NOTES:

amp@leics.gov.uk

www.leics.gov.uk

ALL LEVELS RELATE TO ORDNANCE SURVEY DATUM, DERIVED BY GPS (THEY MAY NOT CORRELATE WITH ORDNANCE SURVEY BENCHMARK VALUES). ALL COORDINATES RELATE TO ORDNANCE SURVEY OSGB36 TRANSVERSE MERCATOR PROJECTION, REFIXED USING GPS FROM THE NATIONAL GPS NETWORK. HOWEVER, THE LOCAL SCALE FACTOR HAS BEEN REMOVED TO ALLOW REAL DISTANCES TO BE MEASURED.

Ivy Cottage

ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS ON DRAWINGS TO BE REPORTED TO LCC ENGINEER / PM AS SOON AS IDENTIFIED.

Farm

Key:

New kerb line

Road marking Footway

Carriageway

Extents of works

New pedestrian crossing

Depot

20 26

Like a magnet

12 2

Pond

A511

SHA

Loop

W LA

17 15

Garage

Sto

REVISION APPROVED

AMENDMENT

TO N

Bus

SIGNED/DATE

REV.

ANN CARRUTHERS DIRECTOR

Left turn only

LIT

Sto

Bus

ENVIRONMENT AND TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT

Depot

LEICESTERSHIRE HIGHWAYS

FS 33973

CLIENT:

Assets and Major Programmes

TITLE:

A511 GROWTH CORRIDOR

NE LA

DRAWING NUMBER

The work itself would be focused on 9 locations or supposed problem areas on the route which as I mention, includes the Field Head roundabout.

The projected costs are stated at some £50 million but when you study the proposals you will see why I believe it is fundamentally flawed and is leading to rampant over-development and creating an almost impossible position for local communities. While the proposals would have improved matters for those travelling east to west on the

SCALE

MRN A511-000_Flying Horse/H1/1/1 BY:

APPROVED BY:

NOT TO SCALE

DATE

B Wilson

18/09/2019

SIZE

A Dunn J Walker & P Clarke

CORR. FILE

MRN A511-000

AUTOCAD PROJECT DIR:

N:\Proj Majors\MRN A511\PM\Drgs\Consultation\Flying Horse

AUTOCAD FILENAME:

MRN A511.000_Flying Horse/H1/1/1

COUNTY HALL * GLENFIELD * LEICESTER * LE3 8RJ

Tel:0116 305 0001 Direct Dial 0116 305 0001 Fax 0116 305 0001 E.Mail address:

Depot

FLYING HORSE ROUNDABOUT PROPOSALS

Fundamentally flawed

FEASIBILITY LAYOUT A511/FLYING HORSE Consultation Drawing

CHECKED

AN TO

PREPARED BY:

Every application now coming in, which impacts on our community is linked with this growth corridor, it is like a magnet pulling in developers far and wide. It’s definitely one of the reasons Markfield and Stanton suddenly find themselves at risk from speculative and unwanted developments, both housing and industrial on a scale we have not seen before. The objectives of the growth corridor are many. Its main focus is to actually improve the load capacity and journey time on the road road from the A50 Field Head roundabout to the A511/ A42 roundabout east of Ashby. Essentially from the M1 to the A42. Alongside this objective is a stated desire to open up yet more land for development, both housing (5,250 houses) and industrial (25 extra hectares) and it is clear that this is beginning to happen. In fact it’s on a scale few can imagine. The Leicestershire County Council has been seeking money from Government to fund the works but is also heavily reliant on developer contributions to ensure it can secure the Government funding.

ALL COORDINATES RELATE TO ORDNANCE SURVEY OSGB36 TRANSVERSE MERCATOR PROJECTION, REFIXED USING GPS FROM THE NATIONAL GPS NETWORK. HOWEVER, THE LOCAL SCALE FACTOR HAS BEEN REMOVED TO ALLOW REAL DISTANCES TO BE MEASURED.

A50-A511 the stated improvements in traffic flow are fairly marginal and are concentrated on key junctions, not for instance dualling new sections or further bypass work. When you consider all the additional traffic that the growth corridor is set to bring (probably before the road is improved) you can appreciate that any stated benefit will be consumed by the huge increase in additional traffic that developments linked to this work will bring. The two purported improvements in Markfield and Stanton concern the Field Head and Flying Horse

amp@leics.gov.uk

www.leics.gov.uk

Matthew

My wife said she’s had it with my ‘Mr Know-it-all’ attitude. I had a feeling she would say that.

For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

We Re-Open

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THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Modes of Transport Quiz THE HERALD’S occasional quiz setter - Sheila Fox has sent in another one. This time you have to work out modes of transport from her cryptic clues. Good luck! Answers are on page 27. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

Crossing a stream in Harry Potter’s car? Captain’s rum choice Black cat’s car driven by Morse? Ray of light brings you to this type of car Youngsters doing an old fashioned dance! Back to the future in this Roaming about in this on rough terrain Not an old plane but a sporty model car Poor man’s Rolls Royce? Did the Fab Four drive one of these? Was this paper named after this type of car? Car designed near Birmingham by Guy, James or Dean? Did a barrel maker have a hand in making this small car? Old money form of pedal power Equine pulling carts round Counties Motorbike named after hens? Did Steve of Cockney Rebel prefer this super motorbike? Frank Whittle’s idea of going fast over water? Sir Christopher Cockerell’s amphibious craft The caterpillar wooly bears is the clue to this aircraft

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 10-16 MAY THE CHARITY works for and with people of all faiths and none, as well as with churches and other organisations, to promote sustainable development, strive for social justice and pursue their vision of a world without poverty.

In 37 countries, they support poor and marginalised people, whatever their beliefs, sexuality, gender and ethnicity, to lift themselves out of poverty. For more info about Christian aid – their website is christianaid.org. uk The wonderful, good neighbour scheme volunteers have been doing a Stirling job assisting with delivering the envelopes alongside Church members, we thank them all so much for helping with this and everything else in the village. You should by now have had your envelope through your door and if you wish to donate there will be addresses given for you to drop your donation to, and details for a donation online (if you haven’t received your envelope and would like one then please contact any of the Churches below and we can get one to you) Usually, all the Churches would join together for a Service plus a coffee morning to raise funds, HOWEVER obviously we cannot do that at this time. We are hoping to have something in September and will advertise what this will be nearer the time. Markfield Churches – working together for our community Methodist-www.markfieldmethodistchurch.org or FB Parish Church – j22churches.org.uk Congregational Church – FB Catholic Church - www.stwilfscoalville.blogspot.co.uk If you are a UK taxpayer remember to Gift Aid your donation - Christian Aid can receive 25p back from the government for every £1 you contribute, at no extra cost to you. Just write your name, address (including post code) and amount you are donating on the form attached to the envelope and place it in the envelope with your donation. Thank you to everyone for your continuing generosity.

Churches Together in Markfield

Remembering

CARL JUNG IT WAS 60 years ago, on 6th June 1961, that Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist and psychologist, died. He was the founder of analytical psychology.

Today he is thought of as a countercultural icon and an advocate of spirituality outside religion, associated more with New Age thinking than mainstream psychology. But he came from a traditionally Christian family, being the son of an impoverished rural pastor. Early on, he had ambitions to go into the ministry himself. Instead, he created some of the most widely known psychological ideas, including synchronicity and the collective unconscious. Both he and his mother – Emilie Preiswerk – experienced disturbing paranormal phenomena, which he was determined to explore and explain. Early in his career he was championed and encouraged by the pioneering Sigmund Freud, who secured his appointment as president of his newly founded International Psychoanalytical Association, but they soon went their separate ways, because their ideas were incompatible. Jung was disappointed at the schism, but it resulted eventually in the establishment of his own analytical psychology as an allencompassing system separate from psychoanalysis.

I think my smartphone is broken. I pressed the home button but I’m still at work.

For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

National Trust Leicester Association NEWS 0116 234 0548 We can take care of every detail, advise and help you on each and every step of the way. • Qualified Funeral Directors • Floral Tributes arranged • Hearse, Limousines and alternatives available • Monumental Service • Car parking available

• Online tribute and donation profile • Catering suite • Chapels of rest • Funeral plans available • 24 hour service

WHILST THE GARDENS and woodland at Stoneywell Cottage at Ulverscroft have been open to the public for a few weeks the cottage itself has remained closed due to the lockdown.

However the cottage is almost certainly going to open on Friday 21st May. For the foreseeable future the property will only be open from Friday to Monday each week and pre booking will be required for all visits to the property, via the National Trust web site (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) or by telephoning 0344 2491895. Also as part of the National Trust’s overall plans to save money, due to the heavy losses sustained over the last year, the tea room will not be reopening. Due to social distancing regulations entrance to the cottage will be by selfguided tours and only two visitor groups will be allowed in the building at any one time. There is also a one way route operating around the garden and woods but visitors may go round more than once. The cottage was built as a weekend/summer residence for Sydney Gimson, a Leicester industrialist in heavy engineering, and was first occupied at Whitsun weekend, 1899. The cottage was designed by Sydney’s younger brother, Ernest, who was an Arts & Craft’s architect and furniture designer and maker and also a friend of William Morris. The cottage remains basically as built except that the original thatched roof was replaced with Swithland slate after a fire and an original attic store room has been turned into a bedroom. The cottage has a dining room, a large lounge, five bedrooms and a bathroom formed in the 1940’s from part of the large landing. At present the attic bedroom will not be open due to social distancing regulations. The cottage is fully furnished and most of the furniture is hand made in the Arts & Crafts style, some items were made when the cottage was first built and other items were added over the following twenty years. The stable block, also designed by Ernest Gimson, was built in 1902 and will also open to view. • THE NATIONAL TRUST LEICESTER ASSOCIATION meetings are currently suspended but there are now plans to recommence meetings in September with speakers booked for the evening of the 14th and the afternoon of the 22nd. The Association continues to issue its monthly email Newsheet and its triannual printed Newsletter to members. Please check the Association web site at – www.leicesternt.btck.co.uk for further details.

Funeral arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home if preferred.

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Alan Tyler, Publicity Officer NT Leicester Association

I was so poor growing up, I didn’t build sandcastles - I built sand mobile homes.

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

County Councillor’s Report from Peter Bedford Email: peter.bedford@leics.gov.uk • Tel: 01455 824733 Web: www.facebook.com/peterbedfordmdt OWING TO THE election period known as ‘Purdah’ there have been no formal County Council meetings in the last month. However, I have taken the opportunity to meet with small groups residents (outdoors) to discuss a range of issues in and around the area:

Jelson Phase II FOLLOW THE DECISION by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council to approve Phase II of the Jelson Development I have met with a number of local residents to hear their ongoing concerns and find answers to the queries they have – particularly in relation to the ‘build’ phase to come. I will be able to update Markfield residents on these queries over the coming months.

Speeding I HAVE MADE FURTHER progress on speeding issues with Leicestershire County Council now formally proposing to lower the speed limit on Hunts Lane, Desford from 50mph to 40mph following a number of safety concerns raised by residents and Leicestershire Police. The consultation period for this proposal is now open to residents who are invited to outline their comments (including any objections), specifying the grounds on which they are made, in writing to LAUREN HASLAM, Director of Law and Governance, Leicestershire County Council, County Hall, Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8RA or via email to jane.x.moore@leics.gov. uk quoting reference JM/HTWMT/4882. Residents will recall in previous editorials that I have already raised road safety concerns for London Road and Launde Road Markfield, as well as Main Street in Stanton; I hope to get similar traction from the Highways Department once speed surveys are able to resume.

Pubs Re-opening (outdoors) LIKE MANY RESIDENTS I took advantage of the opening up of leisure and hospitality in April. I’d like to commend the work and efforts of the teams at the pubs across the area for creating safe and comfortable outdoor space for local patrons to enjoy whilst the current restrictions remain in place. I know that many of the public houses across the area have done or are taking similar measures, under difficult circumstances, so thank you for all you do.

Rural Broadband WHILST THERE HAS been massive rollout of super-fast broadband over recent years, I do know that this remains a frustration for some residents in more rural areas. As such I have had conversations with the local MP’s office and County Hall to see what schemes exist and what more can be done to persuade providers to further extend coverage. One option that some may wish to explore is the Community Fibre

Partnership Scheme. Commercial operators run these schemes to help communities build a fibre solution where there are no commercial or council led programmes planned to upgrade the broadband infrastructure. You can find out more information about the Openreach scheme at the link:  https://www.openreach.com/ fibre-broadband/communityfibre-partnerships There is also a Government-led Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme. The Government is providing up to £210m worth of voucher funding as immediate help for people suffering from slow broadband speeds in rural areas. Vouchers worth up to £1,500 for homes and £3,500 for businesses help to cover the costs of installing gigabit broadband to people’s doorsteps. The new UK Gigabit Voucher launched on Thursday 8th April 2021 and is available through a supplier who is registered with the scheme. For full details about whether you are eligible for a voucher and to connect you to a full fibre broadband supplier, go to: https:// gigabitvoucher.culture.gov.uk

SHIRE Grants I WOULD LIKE TO reiterate from last month’s article that Residents/ Groups can apply for environmental grants worth up to £3,000 to support local projects which help the environment and reduce household waste in the county. Leicestershire County Council is encouraging people to apply for its SHIRE environmental grants which are available until the end of June. The grant will only be available for projects where the main beneficiaries are residents of Leicestershire county and should help reduce the amount of household waste or greenhouse gas emissions within communities, improve biodiversity or support sustainable green spaces. A simplified application process is also available for smaller grants of up to £300. The deadline to apply for a grant is Friday 25 June, by emailing: environmentgrant@leics.gov.uk If I can be of assistance with any local issues please do not hesitate to get in touch. Best wishes,

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

I’m not awake until I’ve had two cups of coffee and a nap.

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The man who invented the saxophone

IT WAS 175 years ago, on 28th June 1846, that Belgian musical instrument maker Adolphe Sax patented the saxophone.

Born Antoine-Joseph in 1814, Sax quickly became known for his brilliant inventiveness and his abrasive personality, but also – to the despair of his mother – for his brushes with death as a child. He fell from a height of three floors and was believed dead, drank a bowl of dilute sulphuric acid thinking it was milk, swallowed a pin, and received serious burns from a gunpowder explosion. He also fell on to a hot castiron frying pan, was struck by a cobblestone and fell into a river, then several times narrowly escaped poisoning from sleeping in a room where varnished furniture was drying. He also contracted lip cancer in the 1850s but made a full recovery. It was surprising then, that he lived until his 80th year, dying in poverty in Paris despite his many musical instrument inventions, which did not bring him wealth because they were copied by others, despite his patent. As well as the saxophone, which received huge support from classical composer Berlioz, he also invented the saxatromba, saxhorn and saxtuba. He himself played flute and clarinet. His parents were also instrument designers.

Pain is my body’s way of reminding me I’m a wimp.

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Markfield Community and Sports Centre News Tel: 01530 242240 • www.markfieldcommunitycentre.com

A Wonderful Letter Of Recognition ON THE 14th April we received a very intriguing letter embossed with the crest of the Lord Lieutenant.

On opening it we were delighted to see that it was a personal card and letter from the Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire Mike Kapur OBE. His message in the letter was “The innovation, collaboration, courage and selflessness shown by so many across Leicestershire during the COVID-19 pandemic has been truly inspirational and uplifting. As Her Majesty the Queen’s representative, I would like to thank you for your strength, resilience and the wonderful contribution you have made during these extraordinary and challenging times. Thankyou”. Signed Mike Kapur OBE Lord- Lieutenant of Leicestershire. We are so proud to have received this recognition from the Queen’s representative. It recognises all the voluntary work undertaken by the Community Centre, Markfield Mayflower Club and of course our Markfield COVID 19 Good Neighbours Support Scheme. We intend to frame the letter and keep it in a place of pride for all to see. We will also attach a list of all those people who came forward in these difficult times to offer their support no matter how big or small. Just having their support to call on was so uplifting. Please remember that, despite the easing of the pandemic, we are still here to help and support you. Just ring us on 07885 243033 and we will do our level best to help. It’s “STILL OKAY TO ASK”.

Leicestershire Rural Community Council EVEN MORE recognition for the work we are doing in Markfield came from the Leicestershire and Rutland Rural Community Council.

them around the six ton granite rock amongst the memorial arch of trees. With the Parish Council and a small army of volunteers we are planning to incorporate them into a COVID 19 memorial once current social distancing restrictions allow.

The Centre’s Gradual Re-Opening IT’S BEEN quite strange but uplifting to hear the sound of people using the outside sports pitch for organised football and other sports. This started as part of the Government’s Step 1 road plan to recovery on the 29th March. We were also allowed to have some limited organised activities for children indoors from the 12th April. On the 17th May we will be able to accommodate indoor adult sport and exercise will be allowed plus other very limited and socially distanced indoor activities. Then on the 21st June we should be able to open fully with no legal limits on social contact - though there may be some guidelines on things such as the wearing of face masks – but who knows. Certainly, with the tragic events unfolding in India and other parts of the world we must all be careful and not let our guard down despite the temptations to do so.

Mayflower Club ANOTHER MONTH in lockdown has passed BUT hopefully club sessions will restart on the 17th May.

The Monday Friendship Club should restart on the 17th May and the Mayflower Club on Wednesday 19th May - both at 2pm to 4pm. The sessions will still have to be socially distanced with the current restrictions in place. So, please bring your face mask and sanitise your hands when you come in. On the 24th April we marked St. George’s Day with a virtual quiz on people with the name George as first names or surnames. Carole Kemp gave us some very interesting information on St. George himself.

The RCC recently sent its Rural Community Coffee Van to the Centre’s Car Park to promote the work of the Community Council. The RCC has worked with us throughout the pandemic giving us support when we needed it. The RCC knew that there would be a warm welcome in Markfield and we were the first venue for the Coffee van this season and we even featured in their Press Release. It gave members of our Mayflower Club and other villagers the opportunity to meet up on the outdoor patio, have a nice chat and a warm cuppa. Good job as it was a very chilly morning and a hot cup of coffee or chocolate was much appreciated.

Markfield Covid-19 Rock Snake MANY PEOPLE have been asking about the fate of the village rock snake.

They certainly do not want it to disappear for good and expressed wishes that it should form part of a permanent memorial to commemorate the pandemic. Sadly, the rock snake - which, at one point consisted of over 1,000 painted rocks - suffered due to the cold weather and had become rather dilapidated. COVID restrictions has also delayed planned work to create a rock stone memorial. BUT all is not lost. We have collected up all of the remaining rocks and placed

One of our founder members of the Club - Barbara Pearce - was treated to a special birthday tea by her neighbours Christine and Tim. I must mention Barbara as she set up the Markfield Friendship Club many, many, many years ago and well before the Centre was even open. Many thanks Barbara for all of your help and support over the years and a happy birthday from all of us.

A Bit Of Nostalgia For You? IT ALWAYS brings a smile to our faces seeing how well used the Skate Park is used especially with youngsters of all ages scooting, cycling or skate boarding up and down the ramps.

It is remarkable how well the skate park has weathered and its popularity continued. Having seen skate parks in other areas it has not suffered from malicious damage or even graffiti – quite amazing considering it was opened eight years ago on the 17th May 2013. We started planning the

My idea of a high stress job is one where you work with other people.

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replacement of the old skate park in the autumn of 2011. The old skate park was a wooden structure which was falling apart and needed constant repairs. Local youngsters helped us design the new skate park with features such a grinding rails that we had never heard of before! We then set about securing funding through various bodies till we had enough to start building. We fondly remember one local fund raising event it was called the Markfield “Discothon”. The event involved villager David Sprason, who had been challenged and sponsored to play vinyl records for a whole twenty four hours. Dave was formerly a Night Club DJ and brought along all his old vinyl records, DJ music deck and microphone. It was a long but enjoyable haul but it raised £1,000 towards the skatepark costs. Do you recognise yourself in these PHOTOGRAPHS? We wonder where you all are now and what you are doing?

National Blood Service THE NEXT session will take place on Wednesday 9th June. You can book your blood donation appointment on line so please book your place with the National Blood Service and “Do something amazing” by donating your much needed blood.

Ron & Dawn Grantham

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THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

• Doll’s House Emporium Doll’s House with electric lights. Price: £50 ono. Tel: 01530 242446 (Markfield) • Tomato plants for sale. Price: £1 each. • Dahlia tubers. Price: £2.50 each. Tel: 01530 230389 (Bagworth). • Brown/beige 3 drawer metal filing cabinet with 2 keys. Excellent condition. Price: £50. • Portable satellite dish with receiver, cable and tuner in case. As new. Price:£80 ono. • Caravan steps - dark grey, new. Price: £3. • Water carrier on wheels suitable for caravan or camping. New. Price: £10. Tel: 01530 831128 (Bardon Hill) • Desktop Computer - Zoostorm full size upright computer. Intel i3 processor, 8gb RAM, 1 terabyte hard drive and DVD RW optical drive. Built in Wi-Fi card. Complete with Dell 21.5” Monitor, Wired keyboard & Mouse. Windows 10 pre-installed. All cables & some manuals. Very good condition. Price: £75. Tel: 07812 527935 (Glenfield). • Bootmaster Mobility Scooter. Excellent condition. Dismantles for easy transport.Used for less than 12 months.Complete with front basket, seat bag, 2 sets keys and manual. Price: £500 o.n.o. Tel. 0116 287 5585 or 07780 342253 (Groby) • Five packs of Tena Men’s Premium Fit Protection Underwear. Size: medium. Price: £5.00 per pack. Never been opened.Tel: 0116 287 1532 (Glenfield)

HERALD SMALL ADS • Quality Ladies Faux Fur 3/4 Length Coat. Blush pink. Size 16. Worn only twice. Immaculate. Price £20.00 • 6 quality Lead Crystal Whisky Tumblers. Price £15.00 • 5 Hardback Books “Letters to the Daily Telegraph”. Immaculate . Price £10.00. Tel: 07963 412666 or 0116 2878882 (Glenfield). • Easylife Deluxe Leg Exerciser, remote control included. Perfect for the less mobile, a gentle way to increase circulation and muscle strength in joints and lower legs/ feet. Two foot plates glide gently back and forth, several settings to suit need. Suitable for elderly, infirm, those in recovery or sitting a lot. Boxed, well looked after. Price: £25 o.n.o. Tel: 07951 991408 (Markfield). • Travel Cot & Mattress, plus 2 Mattress Sheets • Stair Gate, extra wide (used only once). • Child’s Toilet Seat. The items are in excellent condition, and have been used only at Grandparents house, when Grandchildren visited. Price: £60. Tel: 0771 2438515 (Markfield) Sony HT-CT80 Sound Bar / Subwoofer. Comprises Bar Speaker, separate box Subwoofer, Optical digital cable, remote control and instruction book (unboxed). Connect to your TV either by Bluetooth or with the Optical digital cable supplied. With Bluetooth streaming, you can also listen to your favourite playlists which can play directly from your Smartphone. Price: £50.00. Tel: 07902 469298 (Markfield).

• Dark Grey Single Wardrobe in excellent condition with shelf and hanging rail. Silver handles. H72 inches, W30 inches, D21 inches. Price: £85.00. Tel: 07720 661602 (Markfield) • Luxury space saving 6mm acrylic Corner Bath in white, 1500mm x 1000mm complete with bath panel and tap, as new condition, hardly used and yours for £100.00. • Medium sized foldable Dog Transport Cage - as new condition, £15.00. Tel: 0116 2876715 (Groby)

• Dining Table - 3 ft square, extendable, with 4 chairs. V.g.c. Price: £50.00. • Eurohike Teepee Tent - new. Price: £50.00. • Eurohike Double Flock Airbed - new. Price: £10.00. • Badger Stretcher Bed. Price: £50.00. Tel: 0116 232 1922 (Groby). • One Light Wood Barstool with square material padded seat. 74 cm high. Good condition. Free. Tel: 07815 940871 (Groby) • Car Cycle Carrier for sale: Make is Exodus, bought new via Halfords approx 3 years ago. It will carry 2 cycles and requires a tow ball fitting on the rear of the car used, Max weight to be carried is 30 Kg. Lockable on to the tow ball, provided. Halfords Item code:146682. Price: £30. Tel: 01162 876856 (Groby) • Outsunny 3m Cantilever Garden Parasol - Green Canopy, Tiltable, Rotatable. Includes Base Weights, Instructions. Price: £40. Tel: 0116 291 9119 (Groby).

• Dutch Dresser, round top, 2 doors, 2 drawers, 36”long, 16.5”wide, 64.5” tall. In good condition. Price: £50 o.n.o. Buyer to collect. • Blooma Bondi G450 4 Burner BBQ with side burner. Includes two 4.5 butane bottles, tools and cover. In good condition. Price: £50 o.n.o. Buyer to collect. Tel: Alan on 0116 232 2541. (Groby) • 4 x 1000 pieces Jigsaw Puzzles cottage/landscape. Nice puzzles to do. Price: £14.00 or sold separately £4.00 each. Can supply photos. Tel: 07790 734858 (Groby) • WANTED: a CHARGER for an ALDI Workzone cordless drill Item No.629782 220v-240/ 50Hz/ 45w/ 12.8v/ 2000mA. Tel: 07715 853571 (Glenfield) • Two large Wicker Chairs each one 30” wide in good condition. Ideal for conservatory. Price: £40. Will deliver FOC if near Markfield. Tel: 01530 589369 or 07908 505037 (Markfield)

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

Letter Stanton from the air A FEW YEARS ago my wife sent you some photos of Stanton during Christmas that I took from the air.

I flew overhead the other day and took some more of how the village looks today.

Tom Coggins, Stanton under Bardon (Editor’s note: I’ll put more of Tom’s photos of Stanton on the Herald website - www. markfieldherald.co.uk)

When James Bond is out of his home country of England, is he known as +44 07?

For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

DOVE BANK SCHOOL BROWNIE CHALLENGE THE CHILDREN at Dove Bank Primary School have been supporting Lily Cox with her Brownies Challenge.

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Her task is to take on a project to be a ‘Top Role Model’. Lily has decided to support the local community with litter picking. As a school, we spent time litter picking in our school grounds and we were really pleased with how much tidier the grounds are now. We collected lots of litter including shopping bags, cans and crisp packets from our hedges. All of the equipment that we needed was kindly supplied by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council.

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THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Letter from Uncle Eustace

Cameras ready!

On getting to church at a social distance

THORNTON OPEN GARDENS

The Rectory St James the Least of All My dear Nephew Darren Since your parishioners mostly live in an area of half a square mile, where their only concern in getting to church is whether to take the underpass, or to risk a dash across the ring road, you may have little understanding of the problems our folk have in travelling our long country lanes to church, especially as we are keeping our social distance from each other. Several parishioners have decided that they can’t possibly share cars even with their own spouses, as in their 15-room homes they have successfully (and in some cases, happily) avoided each other for months. So the lane outside the church has filled up each week with Mercedes nudging Audis, and Land Rovers easing in between Bentleys. Others arrive on horseback. But they are careless about leaving their horses to graze in the churchyard, and I have had to remind them twice that flowers in memorial vases are not fodder. The horses do help to keep the grass down, but unfortunately our verger now objects to standing outside during Mattins, holding the reins of half a dozen horses. He says it is not part of his job description, which only confirms my view that there is entirely too much fuss these days about having job descriptions at all. Major Crompton’s devotion to his new sit-on lawnmower has inspired him to travel to church on it. Since he is unable to uncouple the mowing apparatus, the tarmac on his two-mile drive is acquiring interesting patterns. His drive at two miles per hour along narrow lanes means he arrives leading a procession of cars with drivers given the opportunity to exercise the Christian virtue of patience. Mrs Pendleton, on the other hand, leads a small but select group from the Mothers’ Union who are all keen cyclists. They all arrive on a whoosh of fresh air, their hair in total disarray, but with pink cheeks glowing with health. Nobody in church minds sitting near them, as anyone who can manage to peddle an old three-gear bicycle up the hill to our church is most unlikely to be sickening for anything. Finally, of course, the majority arrive on foot, having negotiated fields, stiles and assorted cattle on the way. The countryside may well praise God, but one does wish they wouldn’t bring quite so much of it into church. Your loving uncle,

Eustace

Online and organised by Friends of St Peter’s, Thornton TAKE PHOTOS of your Thornton or Merry Lees garden during the first three weeks of June and be part of the village video for us all to enjoy.

We will accept photos or videos and they must be submitted by 20th June. Details can be found on both of these websites: Thornton Village website – www.thorntonvillage.org/open-gardens2021-information OR the Friends of St Peter’s website- www.friendsofstpeters.yolasite. com/events.php Last year’s video has been watched over 1500 times! Virtual Open Gardens 2021 will be available to view on Youtube in early July.

Lis Muller

thornton.opengardens@outlook.com

Give a compliment! WE ALL like to receive a compliment from time to time.

As Robert Orben, former script writer for President Gerald R. Ford once said, “A compliment is verbal sunshine.” Another American, Leo Buscaglia once observed: “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn someone’s life around.” At a funeral service, nice things are usually said of the deceased. While these comments are comforting for the relatives, did the same folks ever bother to say these kind things to the person themselves, when they were alive, to show them how much they were appreciated? Sadly, not everyone seems able to compliment others. Perhaps they never received compliments when they were young, or perhaps they feel that to compliment someone else is to somehow put themselves down. For whatever reason, such people miss out on a whole lot of pleasure in life. Whenever we see something that is worthy of a compliment, why not give it, and bring ‘a little verbal sunshine’ into someone else’s life!

Colin Hammacott

Every Olympic event should include one average person competing, for reference.

For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

Time to sort out your Hanging Baskets

ARDEN CENTRES and nurseries are crammed full of summer bedding plants at this time of year and they make fabulous hanging baskets and planters.

All you need is readily available from your local garden centre. Firstly, choose a good-sized basket (easier to keep moist than a smaller one) and a hangingbasket liner, or a good-sized pot or planter with plenty of drainage holes. A good quality multipurpose compost is essential for excellent results. The range of plants is vast, so carefully consider the colours and textures: decide on subtle or brash and bold, and whether you want to coordinate the flowers with other garden features. To get started with your planting, place your basket in a large flowerpot as this stops the roundbottomed basket from moving. Place the liner in the basket, adjusting it to fit the basket and trimming off any excess. Next add handfuls of compost up to the point where you want to plant around the sides of the basket. Planting slits are included in some liners. If you are using a pot, place a base of broken flowerpots or large stones in the base and top up with compost to within around 10cm of the pot rim. Carefully remove the plants you need from their containers, easing the root balls out gently but firmly. An upright plant such as a fuchsia or pelargonium is a perfect choice for the centre of the basket or container, as it helps

to give your planting height and structure. Any container looks better if there are plants cascading over the sides, so choose trailing plants and put these in around the edge. Space the trailing plants evenly around the sides of the basket. Drizzle compost around and between the root balls of all the plants, making sure that each one has new and fresh compost to grow in to. Use your fingers to firm the compost and make sure that there are no gaps. Once the planting is complete, water the container thoroughly using a watering can with the rose attached. Finally give your basket or pot a few days’ ‘rest’ sitting in a cool spot out of too much hot, direct sunshine. Tips • Never let the compost dry out completely. Use a watering can with a rose attached or a gentle spray nozzle on the end of a hose. • If the container does become too dry, sit it in a bowl of water for about an hour, allowing it to soak up the water it needs from the base and sides. • Regularly remove faded flowers as this will help to encourage the plants to continue producing more flowers. • Check regularly for any pests such as greenfly and treat the problem promptly. When plants are tightly crammed together, problems soon build up and spread if you’re not quick off the mark. • Feed every couple of weeks with a highpotash liquid fertiliser such as a tomato feed, as this will help to encourage more flowers to develop.

Phil Durham

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I appreciate the police escort, but shouldn’t they be in front of me?

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

All the latest news from Markfield WI FOR OUR APRIL meeting we had a talk by Sian Fox ‘It shouldn’t happen to a home economist but generally does’.

Home alone, wanting a gnome DO YOU yearn for a garden gnome? You are not the only one.

Since last year’s lockdown, garden centres have been reporting a ‘massive upswing’ in ornament sales, due to people being forced to spend more time in their gardens. Gnomes top the list of most-wanted ornaments, with a near 100 per cent increase in sales over the past two years. There was even a gnome crisis a while back, when the Suez Canal got jammed, and thousands of gnomes on their way to UK gardens could not get through.

She started her career studying home economics in Bath, which course surprisingly didn’t involve cookery. She started work with Trading Standards and as the only female she was chosen go into premises to test purchase various items including beer. She then went to work with Sainsbury’s for 6 months and stayed for 23 years working as a food demonstrator. That role included giving out samples to customers; on one occasion when producing creme brulee the fire sensor was activated and the fire brigade arrived. The demonstrations occasionally included props one of which was a 6 foot toothbrush which she transported in her mini metro. Sian became involved in food and nutrition education working with such diverse people as Jamie Oliver and the Calendar Girls. We thoroughly enjoyed her talk and she was right - it generally did happen. With the loosening of restrictions we have recommenced our garden meet-ups. Sadly our first meeting coincided with the long awaited rain but the WI are made of sterner stuff and we went ahead regardless. Our members continue with their pastimes; Fran has produced a stitched wreath as part of her sewing machine course, others have been cross-stitching and Jane’s loofahs are doing nicely, in the meantime she has shared a picture of her bulbs bought through the WI’s bulb scheme which they offer each year. Our May meeting will be our Resolutions meeting. Each year the National WI puts forward suggested resolutions which members then vote on, the chosen resolution(s) then go forward to be discussed by local WIs to decide which will go forward as a national campaign. This year’s proposed campaign is to increase awareness with GPs and the public of the signs of ovarian cancer. If you would like to see the workings of your local and national WI you are welcome to join us.

Do What You Love, Love What You Do By Holly Tucker

HOLLY TUCKER MBE - co-founder of notonthehighstreet, and creator of Holly & Co - is on a mission to change business forever.

Having inspired over 100,000 entrepreneurs and identified the keys to their success, in Do What You Love, Love What You Do, she now wants to help anyone build a business doing what they love, leading to a happier and more fulfilled life. Demystifying the grey world of business, whether you’ve yet to take your first steps or find yourself stuck in a business rut, this beautiful and vibrant book will allow your dreams to take flight. Holly looks back at her own story, sharing her biggest lessons and proven advice on creating and growing a business. From side hustle to full-time, from defeating your confidence gremlins to creating an empowered community, Holly reveals both the skills and the mindset any founder needs to help their business thrive. A book like no other, Do What You Love, Love What You Do also shines a light on the creative community, showcasing the brilliant and unique output of small businesses, inspiring you to join them in their success. There are now over 5 million small businesses in the UK - join the movement with the ultimate small business bible.

The police got me a really bouncy castle for my birthday. All I had to do was stand on a ledge outside my office.

For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

As reported in Scientific American

‘Mother Trees’ Are Intelligent: THEY LEARN AND REMEMBER

SUZANNE SIMARD, the University of British Columbia ecologist, was the model for Patricia Westerford, a controversial tree scientist in Richard Powers’s 2019 Pulitzer Prize–winning novel The Overstory. Simard’s work also inspired James Cameron’s vision of the godlike “Tree of Souls” in his 2009 box office hit Avatar. And her research was prominently featured in German forester Peter Wohlleben’s 2016 nonfiction bestseller The Hidden Life of Trees. What captured the public’s imagination was Simard’s findings that trees are social beings that exchange nutrients, help one another and communicate about insect pests and other environmental threats. Previous ecologists had focused on what happens aboveground, but Simard used radioactive isotopes of carbon to trace how trees share resources and information with one another through an intricately interconnected network of mycorrhizal fungi that colonize trees’ roots. In more recent work, she has found evidence that trees recognize their own kin and favor them with the lion’s share of their bounty, especially when the saplings are most vulnerable. Simard’s first book, Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest, was released by Knopf this month. In it, she argues that forests are not collections of isolated organisms but webs of constantly evolving relationships. Humans have been unraveling these webs for years, she says, through destructive practices such as clearcutting and fire suppression. Now they are causing climate change to advance faster than trees can adapt, leading to species die-offs and a sharp increase in infestations by pests such as the bark beetles that have devastated forests throughout western North America. Simard says people can take many actions to help forests—the world’s largest terrestrial carbon sink—recover and, in doing so, slow global warming. Among her most unconventional ideas is the pivotal role that the ancient giants she calls “mother trees” play in the ecosystem and our need to zealously protect them.

Spot The 10 Differences

MISSING / STOLEN: LOKI SUBSTANTIAL FINDER’S FEE Our beautiful cat Loki disappeared into the woods in between Bagworth & Battram (Coalville) in the early hours on the 16th March 2021 and could have potentially wandered in the surrounding areas. He may have snuck into a garage/shed. Microchipped (the chip company are aware of his lost/stolen status) Neutered • Long-haired • Smoky grey colour • Maine Coon breed EXTREMELY LARGE - MUCH BIGGER THAN THE AVERAGE CAT

Please contact Annie on 07506 001027 or 07891 285846. Every day, we pray today will be the day that someone calls to tell us that they have found him. He will miss his family, his bed, his toys. We are broken without him. It is a crime to steal a pet. Even worse, it breaks the heart of a hopeful family who just want their loved pet back where they belong. Please help bring Loki home.

Answers on page 27 I’d mind my own business if yours was a little less interesting.

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Church Services St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Markfield Sunday 16th May 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 23rd May 6.00 pm Holy Communion Sunday 30th May 10.30 am Holy Communion with Copt Oak Sunday 6th June 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 13th June 6.00 pm Holy Communion

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon Sunday 16th May 10.30 am Holy Communion with Thornton Sunday 23rd May 10.30 am Something Different Service Sunday 30th May 10.30 am Parish Holy Communion with Thornton

Cross Hills Baptist Church News THERE ARE many sayings and quotes about friendship but my favourite one is “A true friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future and accepts you today just the way you are”, and I am very blessed to have friends just like this, although I think that my friends think I’m a bit nutty!

Real friendship looks at the heart and not just the “packaging.” Genuine friendship does not love just for what it can get in return and true friendship is both challenging and exciting. It overlooks faults, and it loves unconditionally, but it also involves being truthful, even though it may hurt. God calls us His friends, He laid down His life for us and He is the most real, genuine, and true friend you could ever ask for. This week at Cross Hills, the ladies singing group returned to practice since before the first lockdown. Although more talking than singing happened, it was great to be there. We look forward to further relaxing of Covid restrictions and being able to open the Church up even more including an outdoor Pentecost service at the end of the month. If you would like to join us on our Zoom Sunday services, please contact us for more information

Bekki Holmes and all at Cross Hills https://www.facebook.com/crosshillsbaptist Pastor Garry Kelly: 07816616189 Robert Holmes: 01530231901

Finding the quietest times to shop locally

Sunday 6th June 10.30 am Morning Prayer Sunday 13th June 10.30 am Holy Communion

St Peter’s Church, Thornton Sunday 16th May 10.30 am Holy Communion at Stanton Sunday 23rd May 10.30 am Morning Prayer Sunday 30th May 10.30 am Parish Communion at Stanton Sunday 6th June 10.30 am All Age Service Sunday 13th June 10.30 am Holy Communion

If you are in this group, but would really like to be out shopping and seeing what options you have, you may be concerned at tales you have heard about some shoppers who totally disregard the advice about social distancing.

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak Sunday 16th May 9.15 am Holy Communion Sunday 23rd May 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 30th May 10.30 Holy Communion at Markfield Sunday 6th June 6.00 pm Holy Communion Sunday 13th June 3 pm Praise Service

SOME READERS who have depended on online shopping for the past twelve months may still be cautious about busy situations, such as supermarkets.

Shopping when the stores are virtually empty, and checkout queues are minimal, may be what you are looking for. Google can help you choose not only the best days to avoid the crowds, but also the best time of the day. When you do a Google search on a particular store, for example “Tesco, Beaumont Leys” the first page of the listing will probably include an information box about the store on the first page of the responses. Scroll down and, towards the bottom of the box, you’ll find a bar chart showing the popular times for the store. You can choose a day of the week and the chart will show the relative popularity hour by hour. For this branch of Tesco early in the week is quieter than later, so for a less crowded visit go early in the week and early in the day. It’s probably what you thought, but it is reassuring to have confirmation.

Norman Griffiths

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST WILFRID OF YORK 53 London Road, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3JB

St Wilfrid’s is open for weekend Masses – Saturday 6 pm and Sunday 10 am. We are grateful that we can still open for Mass. We have strict safety measures in place to keep everyone safe and it is essential that the stewards’ instructions are followed in Church. Spaces at Mass are limited and come on line six days before the Mass you wish to attend. Places are booked up very quickly. So it is important that you book a space in one of two ways: either by the Parish website: www. stwilfscoalville.blogspot.co.uk or, if you do not have access to the internet, please ask a family member or neighbour to help or phone the presbytery – 01530 832098 - on Mondays from 12 noon to 2 pm. Sacrament of Reconciliation You can now book an appointment with Fr Gabriel to celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation. Please call the presbytery to book an appointment – 01530 832098. •Just a reminder, Fr. Gabriel is celebrating mass via Zoom app each weekday at 10am. Please feel free to join in. If you would like the code to join, please email susantompkin@yahoo.co.uk. •Fr Gabriel is available if a priest is needed. •Please let the Parish know if you, or anyone you know, needs help of any kind. Please call the presbytery and we will do what we can to help. Keep safe and well. Parish Contact Parish Priest: Fr Gabriel Offor – 01530 832098 www.stwilfspriest@ gmail.com Parish Website: www. stwilfscoalville.blogspot.co.uk School Details St Clare’s RC Primary School, Coalville: 01530 837747 www. st-clares.leics.sch.uk and De Lisle RC College, Loughborough: 01509 268739 www.delisle.leics. sch.uk Village contact: Margaret on 01530 243292 Bishop Patrick’s invitation to complete a survey by 4th July on how Covid19 has affected you and your faith may be accessed via this link: https://www. dioceseofnottingham.uk/whats-on/ news/share-your-story-how-hascovid19-affected-you-and-yourfaith

Still waiting for Google Earth to have a layer that shows lost frisbees.

For publication dates and details of advertising rates, visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk

Groby Sings NEWS

LIKE MUCH of the singing world, Groby Sings is still in limbo with regards to singing together in peson and it looks to be that way for the near future at least. However, it’s been amazing how, over this past year, people have made great efforts to adapt to our new world by embracing the technology of video conferencing for business and social meetings, quizzes and, of course, virtual choirs.

In fact, virtual choirs have been around for several years and many examples can be found online. One performance that is well worth looking up on YouTube is Eric Whitacre’s Virtual Choir 6: Sing Gently. This consists of the largest virtual choir ever assembled: 17,572 singers from 129 countries who joined up to sing this simple but beautiful tune which really celebrates music and singing together. Every contributor’s photo is used in a video montage to accompany the song. So far, it has not been feasible to set up a virtual Groby Sings choir but last year, in the early weeks of lockdown, a lot of Groby Singers tuned in to Gareth Malone’s Great British Home Chorus (GBHC) to have the opportunity to sing and to experience having a conductor who made the sessions fun, something everyone really missed from our Monday rehearsals. Gareth used several songs that were in the Groby Sings repertoire so singers already felt at home. Some Groby Singers sent in a recording of their voices to be included in the final video and EP produced at the end of the series (search YouTube for GBHC videos). Locally, the services at Groby parish church of St Philip and St James have been enhanced by recordings of hymns sung by a small choir, some of which are members of Groby Sings. As live singing by groups of people has not been possible, this has been achieved thanks to our very own Groby Sings musical arranger and church organist, Paul Cox. He records piano tracks and voice parts of hymns and sends them to church members who then record their own voices singing, and sometimes videos, to send back to Paul. Being a man of many talents, he then edits the voices together to produce the final recording of a mini choir, a time-consuming task but a great outcome as it can be added to the church’s online video services or played in church for live-streaming. As restrictions have impacted funerals too, families have been able to choose to have a small pre-recorded choir singing as part of the service. We at Groby Sings know that music and singing is uplifting for our mood and general wellbeing and this has been borne out by scientific studies as illustrated in 3 excellent BBC programmes to be found on BBC iPlayer called ‘Our Dementia Choir’ presented by Vicky McClure (otherwise known to ‘Line of Duty’ followers as DI Kate Fleming). This choir of people living with dementia (the youngest being only 31) was formed before the

pandemic in Nottingham, the hometown of both Vicky and our own Groby Sings founder and former conductor, Helen Hayes. Vicky wanted to form this choir as a result of witnessing her beloved grandmother’s dementia journey. A large box of tissues is required to watch these programmes but they illustrate so well how music therapy makes such a difference and brings comfort to people whose lives have been changed by illness. And finally, Leicestershire Music Eduction Hub has already brought together virtual choirs in Leicestershire with A Million Dreams for school children (which included one of our very own young Groby Singers) and Leics Sing! both of which can be viewed via their website and on YouTube. Now the Hub is having another virtual event called Make Your Own Kind of Music which choirs and singers throughout the county, including Groby Sings, have been invited to join. We really hope that Groby Sings can make a contribution so watch this space!

The Wife Who Got a Life By Tracy Bloom

CATHY COLLINS is a mum on a mission – to change her life.

When her husband drops a midlife-crisis bombshell, Cathy decides it’s time to take control. No more laundry, teenage tantrums or housework. After years of putting herself last, she’s going to be first for a change. Cathy Collins is carving a new path, and nothing is going to get in her way… From No.1 bestselling author Tracy Bloom, The Wife Who Got a Life perfectly captures the joyous chaos of family life.

Good Samaritan A Sunday school teacher was telling her class the story of the Good Samaritan. She asked the class, “If you saw a person lying on the roadside, all wounded and bleeding, what would you do?” A thoughtful little girl broke the hushed silence, “I think I’d throw up.”

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

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

Tel · 01455 292648

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

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

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

I have enough money to last me the rest of my life, unless I buy something.

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Markfield Library News WE WERE ABLE to reopen on April 12 and have been delighted to welcome everyone back, both volunteers and the Public. Please remember that material is being stamped for 4 weeks and there will be no late fines payable until the end of June.

Opening hours: • Monday 1-3 • Tuesday 1-3 • Thursday 12.30 – 3 • Friday 1-3 • Saturday 10 – 12.30 TRUSTEES and volunteers have been greatly saddened by the news that Graham Palmer, husband of one of our volunteers, Gabriella, has passed away recently. Graham has been a fixture at the library ever since we first opened as a community library, always reading the newspaper each day, keeping an eye on the building out of hours and being a key holder. We will all miss him very much and are ready to welcome Gabriella back as soon as she feels able.

If the current COVID restrictions are lifted over the coming months, we hope to resume our 18 hours opening by September. Trustees will soon be reviewing when those hours should be and if any changes should be made to the previous pattern pre COVID. If you have any ideas or comments, get in touch at markfieldlibrary@gmail. com and have your say.

Charlotte’s book choices CHARLOTTE again shares some of the recent books she has read with you:

May has come around so quickly, and I am now starting to look forward to seaside holidays (although maybe staying on British sand) and what do you need on a holiday? A good book that you can get lost in! Choosing which books to tell you about this month has been difficult as I have read so many good ones! If you are interested in seeing all that I read search for Books and Bargains on youtube! However, I have picked the following three books and I hope you enjoy them … The first is a kindle exclusive book, that I am actually halfway through, but that is Kiley Dunbar’s THE BORROW A BOOKSHOP HOLIDAY. A bookshop owner in Devon is renting out his bookshop for two weeks at a time so guests can live their fantasy of running a bookshop and cafe next to the sea. I only have one question … where do I sign up? If you are craving a seaside retreat with descriptions of the beautiful views, then this one is most definitely for you! The second, and my absolute favourite book of the last month is Eva Carter’s HOW TO SAVE A LIFE. I was lucky enough to get my hands on an advanced reader copy of this book and it didn’t disappoint. Inspired by the author’s own experience of saving her partner’s life when he went into cardiac arrest, this book follows three characters over the span of 18 years following the night that one has a cardiac arrest, and the others step in to save him. This book had me crying at points, and really hammered home the importance of both CPR and defibrillators. It also had definite Grey’s Anatomy vibes and I couldn’t put it down! (due to be published 27th May) Last but by no means least is Sarah J. Naughton’s THE FESTIVAL. This is a slow burn of a mystery thriller following four old school friends who reunite to go to a festival. I loved how the beginning of this book really got to know the characters and where they were in life right now, before getting into the scary parts! We know from the blurb that not all of them will survive the weekend, and this book genuinely terrified me! I couldn’t put it down once I started, and I am not sure I could go to a festival again! I don’t scare easily, I can read all the supernatural horror in the world, but when a plot feels this real it has me running for cover under the duvet! So, there are three books I loved in May! I hope that you are all keeping safe and enjoying the little bit more freedom we have now, I have bought several books and I don’t seem to be slowing down!

Charlotte Gransden and Margaret Bowler Chair Markfield Community Library

Planning Apps Single storey rear extension - at 8 Turnpike Way, Markfield, Leicestershire LE67 9QT First floor side extension - at 45 Oakfield Avenue, Markfield, Leicestershire LE67 9WH Two bed “granny” annex within garden of existing dwelling - at 308 Leicester Road, Field Head Markfield, Leicestershire LE67 9RG Hip to gable roof with dormer window and single storey side extension at 32 Merrylees Road, Thornton, Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 1AN Extension of existing School, to include the erection of 2 no. Classroom Blocks, Sports Hall, Main Reception, Multi-use Sports Area, Farm Shop, 4 no. Logcabin Classrooms, along with external works to include improvements of existing Car Parks, and Outdoor Play and Teaching Areas and associated landscaping at Oakwood School, Heath Road, Bagworth Heath, Bagworth, Leicestershire CV13 0NG Single storey extension at rear of house, pitched roof to existing garage - at 209 Leicester Road Field Head Markfield Leicestershire LE67 9RF

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If things get better with age, I’m approaching magnificent.

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New independent foodbank launched in Coalville FEED THE NEED is quite a young organisation. We are an independent foodbank based in the centre of Coalville who began to send out parcels of food, and other essentials at Christmas 2019. We are in the process of registering as a charity and have submitted all the paperwork to the Charity Commission.

Our first dream was to provide food to anyone in need of it without making them jump through hoops or prove they needed it. We knew people often found it embarrassing to ask and we wanted to take away the stigma if we could. Once we began to receive food donations and had volunteers to help, the next dream was to have our own premises and be able to cover the running costs. We have been so fortunate to have found a building and received grants to renovate the building and to be able to pay for the rent and fuel costs. It is now a bright and welcoming space which meets the legal requirements for safety and hygiene. During the pandemic we struggled to feed all the people who asked for help, whilst keeping everyone safe. We used our own homes to store food and pack bags which volunteers delivered door to door to try to make sure no-one went without. People didn’t just need food either. We supplied cleaning materials, toiletries, sanitary items, nappies and petfood which were all desperately needed. Whist the funding that helped us during the crisis is now coming to an end the need has not gone away. We are currently providing 60-70 parcels every week during the three sessions we open. We are struggling to meet the demand. The truth is that we cannot get food on our shelves fast enough before it has been packed up and given out to those in need. Our vision for the future is, of course, to continue to provide food and other essential items for as long as they are needed. In addition, we want to develop advice and support services to enable our families to improve their circumstances and be less dependent on the foodbank. With this in mind we have developed a partnership with another charity to benefit from their knowledge and expertise. If anyone reads the articles and feels inspired to donate it will be gratefully received and put to good use. Please contact us for more details: 07812 160220 or email: enquiries@ feedtheneedcoalville.org

Bagworth Community Centre Trust are recruiting! As life starts to slowly return to normal the Bagworth Community Centre Trust are looking forward to welcoming people back to our fantastic centre and to support a smooth return to normal the trust have a vacancy for a centre administrator to support the trust.

If you have experience in admin, finance and customer service and are interested in 10 hours a week worked early evenings across 4 out of 5 evenings a week for a competitive salary - we want to hear from you!

If you would like further information or wish to apply please send your CV to Steve at hr@bagworthcommunitycentre.org by Friday 28th May.

Felicity Middleton

Founder of Feed the Need Coalville.

Where are our birds? BRITISH BIRDS are in big trouble. 80 per cent of our most popular species are in severe decline, according to recent data from the RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch.

The world’s largest wildlife survey has found that 16 out of the 20 most spotted garden birds have been in decline since 2020. There are now concerns about the greenfinch and chaffinch, which were seen in their lowest ever numbers this year. The top five birds seen in people’s gardens were: house sparrows, blue tits, starlings, blackbirds and wood pigeons. Only robins, blackbirds, carrion crows and the song thrush grew in number in 2020.

I measure my fitness level by whether or not my bath towel still fits around me.

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Borough Councillor

Andy Furlong’s

UPDATE

Tel: 01530 231377 • Email: andy.furlong@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk No sadness in defeat… MY GRANDFATHER’S war medals are on prominent display in my office.

They act as a constant reminder that democracy is precious. Previous generations fought and died to preserve our freedoms. This is one of the core reasons why I have been engaged with politics since I was a school kid. I joined the Anti-Nazi League and got involved with Rock Against Racism at the impressionable age of 16. Four decades later, it’s also the reason why many readers will have spotted my face on their doormats in recent weeks. Having served as a Borough Councillor for Markfield, Stanton and Field Head since 2019, I was encouraged by my friend and colleague, Cllr Matthew Lay, to run for Leicestershire County Council. Followers of local politics will know I came second with a respectable 25% of the vote in a bad set of elections for the Labour Party. Winning and losing is part and parcel of democracy. Still, there should be no sadness in defeat, nor arrogance in victory. Neither were in evidence at the election count. The winner, Cllr Peter Bedford, and I traded wisecracks and stories as we watched his vote pile grow much more rapidly than mine. When his victory was confirmed, we bumped elbows, and I wished him well. Congratulations Peter. Good luck with the next four years; local people are expecting a lot from you. Through this column, I would like to thank the voters of Bagworth, Markfield, Stanton and Thornton, who trusted me with their support. Big thanks also go out to those who helped with my campaign, including Bec, Fred, Julie, Matthew, Kate, Derek, Jean, Gary, Mary, Steve, Ann, Annie and Tim, who braved the weather and some pretty ferocious dogs on my behalf – we’ll keep on keepin’ on! Away from the hurly-burly of an election campaign, it’s been business as usual with casework and enquiries arriving in my inbox. Here are some highlights.

What a mess at Markfield Services FOLLOWING BP’s decision to abandon the filling station, concerns have been raised at the rapid deterioration of the former Markfield Services site at Junction 22 on the M1.

phone masts less than 15 metres tall without planning permission being needed. There is no obligation to inform neighbours nor any right of appeal. Yet again, planning law has been stacked against residents. The developer, BT Openreach, acting on behalf of the MultiAcademy Trust that runs Mercenfeld Primary School, has ridden roughshod over local feelings.

Fly-tipping and vandalism have escalated. The borough council’s scope for action is limited because the site is private land. At my insistence, a Community Protection Notice has been served. BP has undertaken to clear the dumped rubbish and make the site more secure with regular inspections, patrols, and covert surveillance. I will keep a close eye on developments and work with interested parties to secure a long-term solution for the site. Watch this space.

Roll away the stones?

Big sheds back on the agenda in Stanton THE ORIGINAL proposal to build three giant warehouses in Stanton under Bardon was unanimously rejected by the Borough Planning Committee last year.

This was seen as a victory for common sense and environmental protection over a greedy US pension fund working hand in hand with a developer based in an offshore tax haven. The proposal is now back on the table, albeit with a slightly scaled-down scheme. At the same time, an appeal has been lodged against HBBC’s decision to refuse the original application. I will work closely with the Parish Council and Stanton residents to ensure that their views are heard.

A511 upgrade FOLLOWING a decision taken by Leicestershire County Council on April Fools Day, the proposed ‘improvements’ to the A511 from Ashby to Field Head look set to go ahead. THE APPEARANCE of several large boulders on the roadside at the bottom of Altar Stones Lane sparked a conversation with residents.

In an attempt to dissuade heavy traffic from using the end of the lane as a turning point, it appears that a well-meaning citizen may have taken the law into their own hands. Whilst I can understand people’s frustration, this type of action is not helpful, and enforcement action may be taken to secure the removal of the boulders.

Mobile phone mast at Mercenfeld LAST WEEK, I took a call from a resident on Oakfield Avenue who was surprised to return home from work one evening to discover that a large phone mast had been erected just a few metres from her property boundary. On digging deeper, I discovered that the borough council had authorised the job because it falls within the scope of ‘Permitted Development’. In 2015 the government weakened the law to permit the erection of

Despite widespread concerns about the impact of the work on local journeys to and from Stanton, Thornton and Markfield, and the difficulties faced by residents on Shaw Lane, I have been told in blunt terms that government funding for the scheme is linked to ‘Improving journey times on the A511’. No cash is likely to be made available to tackle local traffic issues. This is not a joke. We are being taken for fools.

And finally THE TURNOUT in the recent local elections was 39%. Six out of ten electors didn’t vote.

This includes the gentleman who, on being confronted with bedraggled looking character with a soggy red rosette on his doorstep at 7pm on polling day, remarked that it was too cold and wet to go out and vote. I thanked him and moved on to the next house on my list, but I couldn’t stop myself from thinking that it must have been a damned sight colder for my Grandfather when he was on deck in the North Sea during World War One. Thanks for reading this.

Andy Furlong Contact me on 01530 231377 or via andy. furlong@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk

I’ve been sacked from my job. Or as I prefer to think of it, I’m on eternity leave.

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Festival Of Archaeology Returns In July THE FESTIVAL of Leicestershire and Rutland Archaeology will be running throughout July this year, from July 3rd to August 1st. The county festival is part of the UK’s biggest archaeological event, the national Festival of Archaeology.

With lockdown restrictions easing, this is the perfect time for people to get out and explore their local places, discover the archaeology and rich heritage that is all around us and uncover the stories, sites, buildings, places, people and events that make our local communities so special. Events, both on the ground and online, are planned across Leicestershire and Rutland, in our towns and villages, in museums and at our heritage sites. The Festival brings together local archaeological organisations to showcase all that is great about our local archaeological heritage and we want you to help us celebrate local sites, stories and the people who lived and shaped our local places. • Over 40 guided walks are organised with more being confirmed daily. These cover a huge range of sites from prehistoric to industrial. • Live digital talks by some of the counties’ leading heritage experts. • Self-guided walks to enjoy at your own pace. • Online archives of past talks. • And many more family friendly activities, exhibitions and hands on events. Local organiser, Peter Liddle, commented “last year was a disappointment as the pandemic led to most of our events being cancelled but this year we’re back! We have fabulous sites locally and we plan to show people a different dimension to popular beauty spots like Bradgate Park, Beacon Hill and Abbey Park where the archaeology may go unnoticed – until our expert guides point it out. Numbers will be restricted to aid social distancing and everything will need to be booked in advance. There will also be a number of self-guided walks for people to follow at their own pace and time. Talks will largely be online with archaeologists from the University of Leicester and other experts speaking about a range of local subjects.” The Leicestershire and Rutland Festival is part of a national Festival of Archaeology organised by the Council for British Archaeology and is supported by the Leicestershire Fieldworkers, the Leicestershire Archaeological and Historical Society, the Leicestershire Industrial History Society, University of Leicester Archaeological Services and many other local heritage groups. More information about the Festival and a full list of events can be found at https://leicsfieldworkers.org/festival-of-archaeology/. The programme will be continually updated as more events are confirmed. More information about the national Festival of Archaeology, which runs from July 17th to August 1st, can be found at https://festival.archaeologyuk.org/.

Her Last Holiday By C L Taylor

TWO YEARS AGO, Fran’s sister Jenna disappeared on a wellness retreat in Gozo that went terribly wrong.

Tom Wade, the now infamous man behind Soul Shrink Retreats, has just been released from prison after serving his sentence for the deaths of two people. But he has never let on what happened to the third victim: Jenna. Determined to find out the truth, Fran books herself onto his upcoming retreat – the first since his release – and finds herself face to face with the man who might hold the key to her sister’s disappearance. The only question is, will she escape the retreat alive? Or does someone out there want Jenna’s secrets to stay hidden?

I’m on a forgotten-name basis with quite a lot of people.

THE HERALD • MID-MAY 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Memories of Entertainment in Bagworth The Jollies Concert Party

HOW THE wartime unites a community. When the Second World War broke out in 1939 Bagworth was a village with most of its population working in the mines.

However, early in the 1940s many of its young men and some young women joined the forces. It was then the people of the village took it upon themselves to raise money for a comfort fund and this was how the Jollies Concert Party was formed. George Lowe and his wife Emma lived in London. George was a detective in the Metropolitan Police but both George and Emma had lived and grown up in Bagworth. When evacuation began to take place, George decided that Emma should return to the country. She came back to live with her parents, Mr & Mrs William (Bill) Evans, in the house opposite the bottom of School Hill. She returned to work as a solicitor’s clerk in Leicester. She was also choir mistress and organist at Holy Rood Church. George commuted to Bagworth as much as leave would allow and they both were the founders of the Jollies. They approached people in the village to form a party to put on concerts. All the following joined and to their credit formed a very entertaining group. George was a very able scriptwriter and Emma was the pianist. Joe Sperry married a Bagworth girl Edith Peaker. They lived in Newbold Verdon. Joe was manager of the Co-Op in Newbold. I remember him having a very deep bass voice. I was recently talking to Arthur Smith and Ron Gilliver who worked under him as lads. Both said how wonderful he was. Oliver Bowler lived in the house which is next to the Post Office (it was in his front room that you could see the doctor who visited twice a week). Oliver worked at Desford Colliery as a carpenter; he was also a very able painter and decorator. He was a quietly spoken man but on the stage a very funny man. Luther Watson was another great character. He was a miner and also a great cricket enthusiast. He always seemed to wear a smile and had a good word for everyone. He lived in the house on the south side of the Post Office. Jack Holmes worked at Bagworth Colliery all his working life. He lived in one of the terraced houses just above the pit which was known as Leeses Row (the reason being Bill Lees kept a shop in the first house). Mainly Jack was a singer, his favourite song being ‘Because’. He was recruited by the Primitive and also Cross Hills chapels for their choirs at anniversary time. His wife Evelyn joined the Jollies later and became part of the chorus line. I remember them talking over the practice sessions which took place at Oliver Bowler’s on Sunday evenings, although these took place after church of course. Mrs Maisie Hunter was the wife of Bob Hunter the colliery engineer at Bagworth. She was a singer and would sing a solo at every concert. She would also sing a duet with my father Jack Holmes, the one I remember most being ‘The Spider and the Fly’. Mrs Ward, the wife of Sid Ward, lived opposite the old Plough in the Square. She was a very elegant lady who played leading roles in many of the sketches George Lowe had written. Mrs Lindsell was the wife of Arthur Lindsell who kept the grocery shop which was where the end of Meadow Close houses join the club car park. She was a qualified ballet dancer and did a solo performance in the programme. Jean Bancroft was the daughter of Harry Bancroft and Marion Bowler was the daughter of Oliver. Both girls were much younger than the rest of the cast. I can’t recall their speciality but I do know they added glamour to the show. George Reed lived adjacent to the Bier House. He was a miner at Bagworth. He always sang at each concert: ‘There’ll always be an England’ and ‘Old Father Thames’ were two of his best, known. Norman Reed the son of George took part in some of the early concerts. He rejoined the R.A.F. but sadly lost his life in action. Florrie Ball (nee Cox) was a prominent member in the chorus line and sketches while her husband Harold served in the R.A.F. Alf Sperry the son of Bill Sperry played the accordion at a few concerts before joining the forces. This then was the cast that performed mainly at Bagworth Institute (now

the Community Centre) but also did concerts at Barlestone, to help that village raise money for their comfort fund, and annually at Bosworth Infirmary where wounded soldiers, sailors and airmen were recovering. One of the sketches I well remember was an all-in wrestling match between the Markfield Mangler (Oliver Bowler) and the Stanton Strangler (Joe Sperry). Luther Watson was second to the Mangler whilst Jack Holmes was second to the Strangler. The outcome was not decided but in a hilarious comedy both seconds received a severe pasting. IDA GREGORY: Years ago the Miners’ Welfare Institute (now renamed Bagworth Community Centre) was used for dancing every Saturday night. It was a beautiful floor for dancing. They used to wax it. A band was engaged and they played their instruments on the stage, old time waltzes and other old dance tunes. We didn’t have discos then, we had proper live bands. The ‘Village People’ used to do acts on the stage. There’s nothing like that nowadays. MRS HARBUTT: We used to do the Charleston in our early dancing days. We used to hold Whist Drives in the second World War to buy proceeds for the soldiers. Mrs Reed used to be in the concerts up at the Institute. I seem to remember two Mrs Reed’s, and there was Oliver Fowler, Josie Ferry, George Lowe, Jack Holmes and Marion Plumb in the concerts. They’d sing, “Why am I always the bridesmaid, never the blushing bride”. There wasn’t a lot of money about in those days. But we could catch a bus then which ran every quarter of an hour. We’d pay a penny a ride and could go to Hinckley for that! My dad was caretaker of the Institute at one time. He worked at Ellistown Colliery, and because he wasn’t well enough to go down the pit one day, he was sacked without any compensation. Then he got the job here as caretaker. After getting another job for a time he left there and got a job at Kennewell’s Petrol Pumps. He stayed there till he was 80 and left on his birthday.

IDA GREGORY: I remember Luther Watson in the Jolly’s. Mrs Reed did the ‘Laughing Policeman’ act. There was Mrs Dinsdale, who used to organise the Juniors’ concert party. I was in it, tap dancing. Stan Bennett used to sing. The concert used to be crowded. The whole idea of the concert was to keep the kids occupied and off the streets.

Why do dogs always think the knock at the door is for them?

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More eye witness testimony

Dear Friends, ONE PERSON who has been in the news a great deal recently, following his passing, is HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Not that surprising for a major public figure, who lived a long, remarkable life.

MRS HARBUTT: My father used to look after the building. He would sell minerals, drinks and cigarettes, including Woodbines at 2d a packet in old money. MRS OLIVE BURCHELL: We always had good parades. They used to be grand affairs. People used to come from miles around to see them. MRS HARBUTT: We always held an annual parade in aid of Leicester Royal Infirmary. Bagworth band was noted for its quality and excellence. They used to dress the floats up to a high standard. MRS BANCROFT: In 1930 the Bagworth cricket team was formed by my husband. It continued to flourish until 1952. Luther Watson was in it (Mrs Harbutt’s brother). As we were short of funds to build a pavilion, when we had cricket matches we women set about making refreshments and selling to the public who attended. We sold these refreshments round the field, to the people watching the match. This money was saved until eventually we had enough to buy a pavilion. The MP William Edge was engaged to come and open it. MRS HARBUTT: Our Jack (Watson) was the wicket keeper and Luther (Watson) was in the team too. I’ve got cricket photos, you can see all the people on Barlestone Road watching play. GEORGE FARMER: We used to play at the back of the pub in the summer (the Maynard Arms). It was good entertainment for everyone.

Spot the Difference Answers 1. Tags on the life-ring in a different position, 2. Collar on neck of swimring duck is missing, 3. Red stripe missing on larger boy’s trunks 4. Facial expression on sign 5. Left hand on larger boy is hidden 6. Little boy’s eyes looking in a different direction 7. Little boy’s freckles are missing 8. Little boy’s belly button is missing 9. Different coloured trunks on little boy 10. No crack on the wall

But what strikes me especially about him, is how he makes us think about what makes a person truly great. It’s not necessarily the role you hold, or what your gifts are, but how you use them. Prince Philip achieved many amazing things. Yet his greatness was also in his selfless support of the Queen, and encouragement of countless others, in particular young people. More locally, I have also seen this kind of greatness in several people I meet in my ministry. At this time, I think particularly of somebody whose outstanding musical gifts inspire countless other musicians, and whose selflessness, kindness, and courage are a great encouragement to so many. We may not be well known. We may not feel that our gifts add up to much. Yet we are all made in the image of a Creator, who has given us all something special to offer. That Creator God loves us, invites each of us to offer confidently all that we are, to share His love and bring encouragement and joy to others.

Judith Lincoln Minister, Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield www.markfieldmethodistchurch.org FB Markfield Methodist Church

Answers to Sheila’s Cryptic quiz 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

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