Have Your Say
Residents and Businesses Invited to Comment on Local Plan Review RESIDENTS, local businesses and others with an interest in the borough are invited to give their views on the next stage of the review of the Hinckley and Bosworth Local Plan. The Local Plan is the key planning document for the borough and it will identify sites to meet housing and employment needs, and set out policies to guide development and respond to economic, environmental and social issues. The Local Plan also sets the strategic framework for Neighbourhood Development Plans. The purpose of this consultation on the ‘New Directions for Growth’ document is to seek views on how the borough should grow in the future, and where new housing and employment development should be located. Leader of the Council, Cllr Mike Hall said “It’s vital that the Council has sufficient sites allocated to build the homes that we need for the next 15 to 20 years. Whilst many sites have already been allocated around the urban area, and some sites have come forward in larger villages we need to identify if possible sites for new villages. We need to know which existing villages may need to expand to protect their local services such as shops, pubs and schools, but if we are to prevent further expansion in areas which already have plans to grow, we shall need new sites to come forward where new communities can be created.” A ‘call for sites’ exercise, is also being held alongside the consultation and residents and landowners are invited to submit sites which may have the potential for development, for consideration through the local plan review. As well as being available to view and download on the website, printed copies of the document will be located at libraries within the borough and at the Hinckley Hub. A series of drop-in events, where planning officers will be present to answer questions, discuss views and provide advice on how to submit comments will be held during the consultation. Further details on the consultation, ‘call for sites’ and drop-in events can be found at https://www. hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/localplanreview. The consultation runs for eight weeks and ends on Sunday 3 March 2019.
Groby’s Got Talent!
Will Alves crowned the UK’s best young technical freestyle footballer! BROOKVALE Groby Learning Campus Year 9 student, Will Alves entered the MOTD ‘Can You Kick It’ competition in the search for the UK’s best young technical freestyle footballers.
Hosted by ‘Sam and Mark’ from CBBC and world champion freestyler John Farnworth, the final of the 10 episodes was aired on Friday 14th December. Will battled through to the final 4 and had to complete a skills course twice in the best time, with the fewest penalties to WIN! The course consisted of a drone drop, dribble test, tyres, mini goals, balance board, triple targets, 20 touch challenge, goal targets, dribble turn test, moving targets, sprint to the finish with a diving header! Will lifted the trophy and also won premier league tickets for a match of his choice which is the Liverpool v Arsenal game!
WELL DONE WILL FANTASTIC SKILL AND EFFORT! Brookvale Groby Learning Campus is so proud of you! • Visit the link below to view this episode including a good luck message from Harry Maguire: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0001jbs/match-of-the-day-canyou-kick-it-series-1-10-the-grand-final-the-top-four-players-battle-it-out-tobe-crowned-champion
NEXT ISSUE OUT ON 16TH FEBRUARY - ARTICLES & ADVERT DEADLINE: 2ND FEBRUARY
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Do you want the A46 to be a six lane highway? FOLLOWING an accident the A46 Western Bypass was closed northbound, between the junctions of the A50 at Groby and the Anstey turn, on the morning of 3rd December. Users of the road will be used to heavy traffic and long queues during peak periods. Earlier this year Groby residents, surrounded by major roads, noise, pollution and traffic noise may have been pleased to hear of the proposal for a new Leicester bypass. The proposed road is at the centre of a strategy to find land to build more than 96,000 new homes in the county to meet estimated demand for housing by 2031 and a further 90,000 by 2051. The rough route - from the A46 at Syston, looping round the east and south of Leicester and joining the M1 at a new junction between the existing Junction 20 and Junction 21 at Fosse Park - could create a corridor through Harborough, Blaby and Hinckley districts where some 40,000 of those new homes could be built The draft Strategic Growth Plan which, when it went out for consultation drew no more than 600 responses, proposed to build more development in major strategic locations and to reduce the amount that takes place in existing towns, villages and rural areas. The A46 ‘Expressway’ proposal for the A46 is considered to be absolutely critical to the strategy, but in the consultation over half (57%) disagreed with the proposed construction, whereas nearly a third (31%) agreed with it. A final version of the Plan, published in the autumn, will be used as a framework for preparing Local Plans. Together with the Strategic Transport Plan and Local Industrial Strategy, the Strategic Growth Plan will be used as a bidding document to secure funding for essential infrastructure and services in our area.
A46 Expressway still the best option Following the analysis of the consultation responses a revised Plan has been developed to take advantage of significant new infrastructure capacity that is close to the anticipated key economic growth points. It says the A46 corridor represents an excellent opportunity to accommodate housing growth close to and with good transport links into the City, where anticipated job growth requires a workforce well in excess of that likely to be accommodated within Leicester and the urban periphery. Growth along this corridor is anticipated to help reduce the length of journeys to work, improve the prospect of noncar journeys and create additional jobs associated with the new housing areas in the corridor. So the A46 Eastern Bypass(or Expressway) option is still considered the best way forward. In addition to help facilitate the release of land for employment and housing to the south of the city the road would also reduce the pressure on Junction 21 and 21A and perhaps stabilise, or even reduce in the short term, traffic volumes on the A46 Western Bypass. Midlands Connect Partnership is a collaboration of 11 Local Enterprise Partnerships, Network Rail, Highways England, central government, 26 local authorities and the business community. It says Leicester is one of the worst traffic pinch points along the 155 miles of the A46 from Tewkesbury
in Gloucesterhire to Grimsby on the east coast. It surveyed 250 companies close to the A46 in Leicestershire and nearly half of them said current traffic conditions negatively impacted their businesses. Three quarters of those firms said traffic had got worse in the last five years and nearly 20 per cent were considering relocating because of the snarled up A46.
Widen the A46 Bypass? When residents in South Leicestershire were interviewed on television about the Expressway plan one said that it wasn’t needed, adding that we already have a perfectly good A46 Western Bypass which could be widened to six lanes. No doubt Groby residents would disagree, along with those in Glenfield, Anstey, and Birstall. But his view may well be shared by many others in South Leicester and it would be no surprise to see Parish Councils in the south objecting to the scheme. But without the Expressway the development potential may not be realised, and the proposed housing allocations might change to the disadvantage of villages such as Groby, so things get worse than they are already. Supporting the plan is probably the best option for the village and other parishes on the Western Bypass corridor, helping provide a balance for any opposition that is sure to develop in the South Leicestershire area. Groby Parish Council is contacting nearby councils to see whether they share this view.
Norman Griffiths
All the lonely people Where do they all come from? All the lonely people Where do they all belong? The Beatles saw loneliness all around them back in the 60s, when they wrote the lyrics to Eleanor Rigby. And loneliness is growing: the number of lonely over-50s will hit two million within seven years, according to recent data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. The study points out that older people often live alone, and lack someone to confide in, or are widowed, or are in poor health, or are unable to do the things they want, or feel that they do not belong in their neighbourhood Caroline Adams, Age UK’s charity director warns that such loneliness will bring ‘serious consequences for their physical and mental health, and therefore for the NHS, unless we take action now.’ But action will be a challenge, for the adult social care sector is badly overstretched, with up to 110,000 jobs vacant across the country.
Groby Players’ Next Production GROBY PLAYERS’ next production will be a Comedy/ Thriller on 28th-30th March 2019. Full details will appear in the next issue of the Spotlight.
Dot Hollins I have my grandmother on speed dial, I call it Instagran.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby’s Got Talent!
Leicester Mercury Education Awards 2018
BROOKVALE Groby Learning Campus had 8 finalists for the Leicester Mercury Education Awards hosted at the King Power on Thursday 6th December. Having 8 out of 39 finalists and 2 winners out of possible 13 categories was a fantastic achievement! WELL DONE TO ALL OUR FINALISTS AND WINNERS! It was a fabulous evening of celebration, with Grace Fleming WINNING ‘Student of the Year’ and Evie Dunn WINNING the ‘Music Excellence Award’! WELL DONE TO BOTH GIRLS!
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Remember when life was so good that we were worried about the Mayan Calendar?
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Average Speed Cameras on A50 have NOT been switched off THE NEWS that some of the average speed cameras installed by the County Council in Leicestershire villages have been switched off has led motorists to speculate whether the Groby cameras on the A50 will be next.
Cameras were installed in a number of locations last year but the Leicester Mercury has reported that those at Measham, Walcote and Sharnford were switched off after less than 2 months. Over that short period 7,141 motorists had three points on their licences and a £100 fine. Cameras on the A6 in Oadby and the A50 in Groby went live in early November and caught 1,290 drivers in less than six weeks. The cameras have been described by some as a “nice little earner” for the Government, as the cost of the cameras and the enforcement procedures is borne by the County Council, but the income from the fines goes to the Treasury. One resident described it as “highway robbery”. The council has asked to be able to keep the first £500,000 to pay for the costs of installing a total of seven cameras around Leicestershire. In a letter to Robert Jenrick, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury the County Council said the scheme being piloted would “reduce deaths and casualties, increase long-term revenue for the Treasury and enable Central Government to provide a visible and tangible benefit to local communities”. In addition it would lead to a fall in the use of road humps, which complies with Government advice for their removal as an anti-pollution measure.
Noticeable difference since cameras switched on County Council figures for the A50 Leicester Road, Markfield Road, Bradgate Hill, Groby show that over 5 years there has been 1 fatal accident, 1 serious accident and 11 slight accidents. Residents believe, however, that even one family having to deal with the effects of a bereavement resulting from a motoring accident is unacceptable, and so this positive action on a road used by more than 25,000 vehicles a day has been welcomed. Locally, Councillor Peter Batty has called for the A50 cameras to stay on, adding that: “to turn these cameras off now and allow it to be publicised could only be described as irresponsible. There really has been a noticeable difference since average speed cameras went operational.”
Norman Griffiths
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Volunteers required for vital roles in helping to support older people ROYAL VOLUNTARY Service is one of the largest voluntary service organisations in the country and inspires and enables 20,000 volunteers to give their skills, experience, energy and time to help people in need in hospitals, at home and in the community.
Locally in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland we support approximately 2,000 older people per year with our services. These services include helping older people who have been discharged from hospital to rebuild their confidence and remain independent once they return home, providing transport to help with shopping, attending hospital appointments or support with social opportunities. In addition our volunteers provide valuable company and friendship as well as making sure that the older person is safe and well. Teresa Gibbs – Commissioned Services Operations Manager for Royal Voluntary Service: “The demand for our services is always increasing and as a result of this we are looking to recruit more volunteers to allow us to continue to offer the support to local older people. Our volunteers make a significant and positive difference to older people’s lives and without their incredible contribution we would certainly not be able to provide the current level and range of services.” Chris Cordle, a retired NHS medical psychologist from Leicester, is a Royal Voluntary Service volunteer. She delivers the charity’s Home from Hospital service which helps settle older people back into home after a hospital stay. She says: “I missed the satisfaction of working with people - I loved that part of my job. Volunteering has filled that gap. I enjoy working with older people, hearing their stories and helping them to achieve their aims. Much of my career was about motivating and helping people, and that’s what I’m still doing now. I really enjoy encouraging people to achieve their personal targets. It’s very satisfying.” We would really like to hear from local people who may be interested in this very worthwhile volunteering opportunity, a couple of hours per week really can make a real difference to the quality of older people’s lives. To find out more please email leicsrutlandhub@royalvoluntaryservice.org. uk or call 0116 2667706.
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My wife left me because I’m too insecure. No wait, she’s back. She just went to make a cup of coffee.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
When does The Big Garden Birdwatch take place?
THE BIG Garden Birdwatch takes place at the end of January each year (26-28 January 2019). It takes place over three days, so if you’re busy over the weekend or perhaps the weather’s bad, you have the option of a third day! Read more at https://www.rspb.org.uk/getinvolved/activities/birdwatch/everything-youneed-to-know-about-big-garden-birdwatch/
Why children are happy Children are happy because they don’t have a file in their minds called “All the Things That Could Go Wrong.”
Marianne Williamson
Just called to make an appointment with a psychic but she told me that I don’t show up.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Nativity crib brings community together OVER THE Advent and Christmas season the focal point in the village has been the nativity scene above Groby Fish Bar. The motivation for creating this is what the banner says - “Like-minded people celebrate the birth of Christ”. During a casual conversation Brian Rigby, landlord of the Stamford Arms commented that we needed a crib scene in the middle of the village, and so this inspired three Christian friends from the local community, and the concept was born. We wanted to draw attention to the true meaning of Christmas – that the birth of Jesus was God’s act of love for us all. Whilst two or three people initiated the project it has turned out to be a true community effort with so much goodwill coming from many quarters: * It was necessary to raise funds which generously came from GE Druck Ltd, Brian at the Stamford Arms, Cllr. Martin Cartwright of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, and two or three other individuals. * We also had the much valued and practical support from the staff at UK GAS (in particular Adam and Ryan), Mark at Groby cemetery and Jo Henson, owner of the Birstall Garden Centre. * Apart from the use of the balcony above Groby Fish Bar, Michael sustained the building team with fish and chips and endless cups of tea and biscuits. He also supplied the continuous electricity. * Practical donations included supports for the figures, straw bales, tree branches, pallets, the banner on the roundabout, and the all-important lighting - again supplied by GE Druck Ltd. * Groby Parish Council has agreed to store the scenery once the festive season is over. The grand switch-on was on the evening of Monday December 10th and opened by Claire Aitchison, SiteManager of GE Druck Ltd. This was followed by mulled wine and mince pies provided by Brian at the Stamford Arms. All in all gratitude must be expressed to everyone who has supported this wonderful community project – thank you.
Tom & Vivienne Limb, and Andy Cereseto Photo by Roxsan Keilty, Freelance Graphic Designer
Your child’s personal data is everywhere
THE SHEER amount of personal data that children and their parents are giving away about themselves is staggering. Consider this: • One in four children under two has their own tablet • Children aged 5 to 15 spend on average 16 hours a week online • Children aged 11 – 16 post on social media on average 26 times a day • By 13, a child will have about 1,300 pictures and videos of themselves posted online. • By 18, the average child will have posted online nearly 70,000 times. Anne Longfield, the Children’s Commissioner, is concerned. She warns that children’s lives are being ‘datafied’ on a huge scale, as their personal information is collected by a series of smart toys, smart speakers and even school apps. ‘We need to think about what this means for children’s lives now, and how it may impact on their future lives as adults. We simply don’t know what the consequences of all this information about our children will be.’
STOP PRESS: Lime Avenue robbery “an isolated targeted offence” READERS may have been alarmed to hear of a robbery on Lime Avenue around 8:45 PM on 11th January. A report online on facebook’s SpottedGroby said that masked men broke in and threatened the resident with a crowbar. On hearing of the incident County Councillor Ozzy O’Shea spoke to Leicestershire police the following day and was assured this was an isolated targeted offence. “This does not take away the seriousness of this offence and the fear these people put the victim through,” he said. “I can assure residents this offence has been passed to a specialist team to investigate. Always please be vigilant and secure your property.” If you saw anything or have any information the police would like you to contact them by ringing 101.
I told everyone you said Hi and no one cared.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Groby Cemetery
Parish Council to look again at burial forecasts THE DECEMBER Spotlight featured news about Groby cemetery and a review that suggested that there was no need to start serious planning for the cemetery extension at the moment. Planning for the future is essential to ensure the continuing availability of the service, and Groby Parish Council has land next to the Ratby Road cemetery which it holds in readiness for use as an extension in due course. Funding is sent aside annually so that when the time comes to begin work on the extension the finance is available. The cemetery opened in 1998 and restrictions were later introduced which meant that Right of Burial is solely for the use of people who at the date of death were ordinarily residents in the Parish of Groby. However, if the deceased has recently moved away through illness or for nursing home care, they may (at the discretion of the Parish Council) be buried in Groby Cemetery. A review had been undertaken of the number of burials each year since opening. Numbers do vary from year to year but the conclusion was that there is no need to start work on the extension in the near future unless there is a material change. At January’s Parish Council meeting figures were presented that suggested that the proportion of residents in the 65+ age group might represent the catalyst which would give rise to an increase in demand for plots, even after allowing for the increased popularity of cremation. Members agreed to take a further look at the projections in order to determine whether there was a need to bring the plans forward. Provision has been made for the extension costs so funding will not be an issue.
Norman Griffiths
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I always get a little skeptical when someone says they literally died.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
County Councillor’s Report from Ozzy O’shea iMPOWER – Most Productive Council THE COUNTY Council has been named as the most productive council in the country for the second year in a row according to a table compiled by consultancy firm iMPOWER. The “iMPOWER iNDEX” defines productivity as outcome value per pound spent and draws on 20 publicly available data sets and 49 outcome indicators. This is a great achievement by the Council and I, like the leader of the Council, would like to pay particular tribute to our staff for their hard work. I would also like to recognise the personal role which Byron Rhodes the Deputy Leader has played in leading our transformation programme, which has been instrumental in this achievement. I agree with both the leader and with Byron that if we were to receive fair funding, we would in all probability also be the highest performing council in the country.
Successful bid generates extra £14m for city and county MAJOR PLANS to unlock an extra £14m for public services across Leicester and Leicestershire have been given the thumbs up. Secretary of State James Brokenshire announced in early December that the area was one of 15 chosen to take part in a national Government pilot. The money - generated from business rates – will be used by 10 organisations to manage growing demand for children’s social care and homelessness support, provide infrastructure for new homes and businesses and invest in city and town centres. Currently, 50 per cent of business rates collected by councils must be paid to the treasury but under the national pilot, areas can spend 75 per cent of new rates locally, releasing more funds. Plans are still being finalised but the money is set to contribute to: • Reducing demand on children’s social care by investing in services to avoid children entering into care, stabilise family-based placements and support young people to live more independently • Developing online and re-designing services - to improve efficiency and free up money to be spent on front line services • Exploring how to reduce the growing cost of homelessness and expanding work tackling fraud • Boosting new jobs and the economy by contributing to proposals for new road infrastructure and improvements to the city and town centres The money will be available from business rates collected in 2019/20.
The 10 organisations behind the bid are: Leicestershire County Council, Leicester City Council, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, Blaby District Council, Charnwood Borough Council, Harborough District Council, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Melton Borough Council, North West Leicestershire District Council and Oadby and Wigston Borough Council.
Residents and businesses are urged to have their say on Leicestershire County Council’s latest budget proposals PEOPLE CAN find out more about the four-year plan and send in their views until 20 January. Go to the County Council’s website and type in have your say to take part. The proposals include £74m, required because rising demand for social care and special educational needs and disability (SEND) support services, combined with inflation, is set to push up costs by £94m. The savings are made up of £34m of detailed savings, a plan to reduce SEND costs by £20m and a £20m gap. They also feature a council tax rise of 3.99 per cent - generating £12m next year, to be invested in supporting vulnerable people. Taking tough decisions and saving £200m since 2010 means we’re in a relatively strong position, especially compared to other councils, but this can’t go on forever. Our four-year proposals show that pressure is building on both our revenue budget - used for running costs - and our capital budget - one-off spend to buy or build things and invest in infrastructure. The plan sets out that with savings, we can balance our books for the next two years but then shortfalls arise. And the question mark over future government funding could exacerbate this gap. Now the county council wants to hear your views. The consultation closes on 20 January and I would encourage you to have your say. The proposals for 2019-23 include: • Spending an extra £94m on services – due to growing demand for social care and special educational needs and disability support (SEND) and inflation costs • £74m savings, including: - Reducing SEND costs by investing a one-off £30m to create more school places locally - Recruiting more in-house foster carers to reduce expensive placements - Reducing adult social care costs by managing demand and reviewing contracts and personal budget allocations - Generating more from property investment and commercial activity - Reducing back office costs by maximising digital technology and simplifying processes
I don’t understand why people get attacked by sharks. Can’t they hear the music?
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
( Tel: 0116 239 4336
Mobile: 07808 585825 Email ozzy.o’shea@leics.gov.uk or ozzyoshea@hotmail.com
- Implementing initiatives that improve the council’s efficiency and productivity. • A 3.99 per cent council tax rise – this equates to £1 a week and would generate £12m to invest in supporting vulnerable people • A capital programme featuring a range of one-off investments such as building a relief road for Melton and other highway schemes, creating new school places, developing supported living for adults with disabilities and rolling out superfast broadband The final budget proposals will be considered by the cabinet on 8 February and agreed by the county council at its meeting on 20 February.
Average Speed Camera Update: Bradgate Hill, Groby I HAVE been asked what the compliance has been along the A50 at Bradgate Hill in Groby since the average speed cameras were introduced. I can confirm that between 2nd November to 12th December 2018, 1,290 notices have been issued to vehicles passing through Groby (1,221) and Oadby (69). During this same period an estimated 2,100,680 vehicles have passed through the camera site.
Groby Community Kitchen/Cook and Chat THE COMMUNITY KITCHEN will now take place every Friday at the Community Centre Forest Rise at the same time from 10am to 12 noon starting on February 1st 2019. See article and poster on page 14.
PayPal Email Scam PLEASE BE aware of a PayPal email scam currently in circulation. It looks like this: Pay Pal Hi Dear Customer, We need to confirm some of your account information. Your case ID for this reason is PP-009-536-987-252. We face a problem in the ratification of the real owner of the account . And for that you must follow the following steps. Login Now Sincerely, The Paypal Accounts Team
I AM AWARE that residents have received a reminder that there has been a problem renewing their TV Licence that
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something has gone wrong with your payments and your Bank has declined direct debit payments. I also received one you can see from the senders email address that it is not official. They are asking you to confirm your bank details please be aware. Never click a link. Some people have received text messages as part of the same scam.
Storm Trooper Brings a Smile to Ratby and Groby on Christmas Day WELL IT could only happen in Ratby and Groby a Storm Trooper seen walking through the villages on Christmas Day bringing a smile to people. Motorists were flashing their lights and sounding their horns, pedestrians were smiling and giving him the thumbs up and children were amazed. Well to those residents who wondered where he came from. I can confirm that it was my son Loz O’shea who lives in Groby he has always been a joker and thought it would bring a few smiles out on Christmas day. Finally I would like to wish you all a Very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year. I also want to thank you all for your continued support and remind you that should you need my help or advice, I always pride myself on making myself available to residents. Remember I am only a phone call or email away.
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Dinosaurs are cool, but what have they done lately?
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
‘The day the music died’ THE DAY the music died – according to Don McLean in his epic song American Pie – was 60 years ago, on 3rd February 1959, when rock-and-roll star Buddy Holly died in a plane crash in Iowa. With him were two other singers, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. Charles Hardin (Buddy) Holly, who was 22 when he died, was born in Lubbock, Texas, at the heart of America’s Bible Belt, and he and his family were closely associated with the Tabernacle Baptist Church there, though he himself was seen as something of a rebel. His style was initially influenced by gospel and country music, and he formed groups with friends from his high school. After opening for Elvis Presley in 1955, he shifted to rock and roll. With his new band, The Crickets, he achieved international success with songs such as That’ll be the Day. Immensely talented, he wrote, recorded and produced his own material and is often thought of as the man who defined the traditional rock-androll line-up of two guitars, bass and drums. He was a big influence on such major artistes as Bob Dylan, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton and was one of the first artistes inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. WISE WORDS: “If only you could sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet; how important you can be to people you may never even dream of. There is something of yourself that you leave at every meeting with another person.” Fred Rogers
Groby’s Got Talent!
League Cup Winners!
THANK YOU to the coaches Andy Bullock, Nathan Paddison and Sean Wilton for your valued time and efforts with the Under-11 Groby Juniors Spartans, who are League Cup Winners 2018/19. Well done all on a successful League Cup final game at Holmes Park, winning 2-0 against Lutterworth Under-11s, who were worthy opponents. The team are going from strength to strength. They are all local lads from Groby schools who enjoy playing together every week.
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Accidentally fell asleep smoking an e-cigarette and when I woke up my whole house was on the internet.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Christmas Day for Those Alone 2018 EVERYONE who attended Christmas Day for those alone in Anstey and surrounding villages had a great day, volunteers and guests alike.
Counselling, Psychotherapy and creative emotional support.
We catered for 91 people! All guests had a lovely 5 course Christmas dinner, a present each and a goody bag with lots of yummy treats. We enjoyed great entertainment with Nigel on his squeeze box doing a Christmas sing along and of course several games of BINGO! We would like to thank all the volunteers who came forward to help both prior to the day and on the day whether that be the initial planning, securing funds, setting up the room, wrapping presents, putting up posters, providing transport, hosting a table, and last but so very much not least all those involved in the catering. The meal was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and catering for 91 is not an easy task! A very grateful thanks to the companies etc.. who support us – to Next for again donating all the lovely presents for everyone, Nationwide in Anstey whose lovely staff co-ordinated collecting chocolate oranges, other goodies and cash from the lovely folk of the villages who donated, Anstey Ale Brewery, Anstey Parish Council, Britvic, Charnwood Brewery, Everards Brewery, S J Langton Butchers in Glenfield, Little Markfield Farm Open Day, Roots and Fruits, Roy Green’s, Sainsburys Local in LFE, Morrisons, Pladis (Jacobs) Wigston, Midlands CO-OP, Walkers Crisps and Yorkshire Tea. Many thanks to all who have donated money and goods themselves, my friends, work colleagues and local people who donate what they can, everything helps - small or large - and all donations have helped make the day very special. Thanks also to St Mary’s Church, Anstey who don’t charge anywhere near the full amount for hiring the room and without the room this couldn’t go ahead - so thanks very much for the use of the room once again. Thanks for reading and a happy New Year.
1:1 sessions available for young people and adults to explore and talk through their feelings and difficulties in a safe therapeutic space. We will work together to develop healthy coping strategies & find ways of improving your mental health and wellbeing, leading to increased resilience, self-esteem and happiness. Sessions are held at my private practice within Natural Elements Wellbeing Clinic, Ratby Road, Groby, Leicester, LE6 0GG
Low-cost service available. Call 07789 000307
www.sunrisewellbeing.co.uk hello@sunrisewellbeing.co.uk Shelley Smith
Kerry Sharpe
Puppy & Dog Training Classes & across Leicestershire www.dogstrustdogschool.org.uk 01162 836458 leicsdogschool@dogstrust.org.uk @dogschool_leicestershire
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dogstrustdogschool
Do one thing that scares you every day. Maybe do four things. Live in constant fear.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Friends of Charnwood Forest Upcoming Events Monday 21st January: 7:30 pm Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall. Talk by Robin Jenkins , Senior Archivist (Collections) Record Office for Leicestershire. “ Sir Thomas Shirley and the Great Shirley Pedigree.” This is the story of the largest document, created by Sir Thomas Shirley, and kept by the Record Office. Who was Sir Thomas and why did he feel compelled to create so vast a record? He claimed that it was thoroughly researched and accurate - but is it true? Come along and hear Robin’s insight into this fascinating piece of Leicestershire history. Monday 18th February 7:30pm. Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall Talk by Colonel Robert Martin, “ The History of the Martin Family”. An insight into the history of this local family and it’s close ties to the Charnwood Forest Area. Monday 18th March. 7:30. Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall AGM followed by a talk be Peter Tyldesley, “Colourful Characters of Bradgate Park” Come along and hear a little more about the association and listen to a fabulous talk by Peter, the Director of the Bradgate Park Trust. Who are these Colourful Characters who inhabit or have inhabited our beloved Bradgate? Come along and find out more about our wonderful Charnwood Forest. Monday 15th April. 7:30 Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall Talk by Roy Mitchell, “The History of the Stoneywell Gardens.” Everyone is very welcome to join us. A nominal charge of £3, payable on the door for non-members.
Our Mission Statement To work towards the preservation of the countryside and local environment of Charnwood Forest Regional Park for the benefit of those who live within it, and for those who visit, and for future generations. We aim to be an effective,informative,and influential voluntary organisation. For more information, and on line application, see www.focf.org.uk
Letter from Uncle Eustace
On how to survive a parish retreat The Rectory St James the Least of All My dear Nephew Darren We have just returned from our annual parish three-day silent retreat at St Epiphanius’ Priory. We had the usual attendees: those husbands who see it as an opportunity to stop their wives talking, however briefly; those wives who can keep their husbands temporarily from the 19th hole at the golf club; and those who want to see if it might be a suitable home in which to park an inconvenient relative. It can come as quite a shock for first-timers: the ladies are appalled to discover that there is neither coffee shop nor hairdressers, and the men that there is no bar or billiards table. The resident community certainly frowned on the four men among us who were discovered silently pushing a car down the drive late one evening before starting it at the main gates as they escaped to the nearest pub. Those of us who are older hands know to bring our own supplies – carefully wrapped, so that the clinking of bottles is not too obvious as one ascends the main staircase. The near universal retreat to bedrooms before dinner is less an opportunity for quiet reflection and more one for a restorative sherry. The more experienced also know that temperatures in the house are Siberian. All the movement and hand waving during Services is less charismatic enthusiasm and more an attempt to maintain blood flow to the extremities. The series of addresses were given by an aged member of the community. That some of our party fell asleep during the addresses was excusable; that the person giving them also occasionally did so, was not. During one stroll round the gardens, I noticed clouds of smoke coming from behind the hedges near the chapel. My hope that it was parishioners experimenting with incense to be used in church on our return was soon crushed when I found it was a group of hardened parishioners topping up their nicotine levels. Seeing them nervously huddled in the shrubbery made one think of schools and bike sheds. I now find it difficult not to picture them all in short trousers and wearing caps. And so we return, knowing that we have done our bit once again for the spiritual vigour of the parish, and also that three days of vegetarian cooking will mean a long queue at the village butchers tomorrow morning.
Your loving uncle Eustace
A new kind of diet YOU MIGHT well lose weight by eating a late breakfast and an early dinner. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science has found that if you delay breakfast by 90 minutes, and eat supper 90 minutes earlier, you may well lose weight, even if you do not change what you eat. Researchers believe the reason may be that moving both meals closer to the middle of the day may attune your eating times with your circadian rhythms, meaning that your food metabolises better. Or, it may be the effect of the longer fast period overnight.
Adverts for Glenfield C For Groby and Field January to Jun
JANUARY
Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God
Bible Talks
Scout Hall, Stamford St. Glenfield Each Sunday at 6pm (God Willing)
Feb 03 The Truth about the Devil Feb 10
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“Crucified with Christ” – What Does it Mean?
Feb 17 God created the world for a purpose Feb 24 The Inspiration of the Bible www.lifes-big-questions.org
The Holy Scriptures... are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.. 2 Timothy 3:15
www.thisisyourbible.com/glenfield
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Glenfield Christadelphians MARCH When my parents got divorced there was a custody fight over me and on one showed up.
Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Letter
Praise for Groby’s Christmas lights I WOULD just like to say ‘Thank You’ again to the Parish Council for a wonderful display of Christmas lights in the village. I’m sure many will agree with me that ours is one of the best village displays in the area. I would particularly like to say thank you for the lights on the green in front of our shops on Lawnwood Road - the trees have looked beautiful, and everyone has remarked on them. We look forward to seeing them all again next year. Many thanks
Lynne Miller, Classic Cuts, Groby
National Nest Box Week: 14th – 21st February IF YOU like birds, now is the time to help the next generation get started.
BLUE TIT NEST BOX – CUTTING PLAN Plank size c. 150 x 1170 mm All measurements are in mm
200
ROOF JOINT To minimise the risk of rain entering the back of the box it is worth cutting a groove into the back plate to accommodate the back edge of the roof.
ROOF
Thinking of moving?
BACK
SIDE
200
SIDE
175
200
175
FRONT
120
Talk to Your Move Coalville on 01530 834474 or visit your-move.co.uk
OPENING ROOF Fit a rubber hinge so that the roof can be lifted easily for cleaning and nest monitoring. Find our more about the BTO Nest Record Scheme on our website www.bto.org
175
300
25 mm diameter for Blue Tit and Coal Tit
WEATHERPROOFING Weatherproof the roof with water-based preservative and ensure it overlaps the front of the box to stop rain reaching the entrance hole.
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EARAXXX- 08/2018
And so next month will see thousands of us shakily climbing ladders against the sides of our houses, garages and trees, to install cosy nest boxes. And soon our tenants will arrive: blue tits, robins, nuthatches, pied wagtails, sparrows, to starlings, tawny owls and even great spotted woodpeckers. National Nest Box Week was started by the British Trust for Ornithology in order to encourage the conservation of our breeding birds. Nest boxes are desperately needed, as natural nest sites for birds such as holes in trees or old buildings are disappearing fast, as gardens are ‘tidied’ and old houses are repaired. It really is worth the trouble to put up a nest box. If you hang one within sight of your kitchen window, you will have hours of fun in observing the young feathered families. Visit the website at https://www.bto.org/about-birds/nnbw/make-a-nest-box for details of how to build a nestbox, where to site it, etc.
ALTERNATIVE DESIGN An alternative to the traditional round entrance hole is a simple triangular opening on the side of the box. Overhang the roof if you adopt this approach.
Get more information from our book ‘Nestboxes: your complete guide’. Available from www.bto.org
BASE
It pays to be with Your Move
Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus
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Clutch size: 8–10 eggs Incubation: c.12 days Chicks fledge at: 16–22 days Broods: 1 per year
Seasonality of nests with eggs (E) and young (y), derived from Nest Record Scheme data.
The more you need your job for financial reasons, the worse you will be treated.
Cover photograph: Edmund Fellowes / BTO; design artwork: Nigel Hawtin
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
National Trust Leicester Association NEWS MANY OF the large National Trust properties in the East Midlands such as Calke Abbey are well known to the general public. However, the Trust also owns a few much smaller properties which are only open for a short period each week. One such property is the medieval Old Manor at Norbury, south west of Ashbourne, which was built by Ralph Fitzherbert in the mid-13th century and expanded by Sir Henry Fitzherbert around 1300. The building is Grade 1 listed. You enter the Old Manor through a low doorway into a storage area with stairs leading down to vaulted cellars. A second staircase leads up to the Great Hall and on the landing is some fascinating 17th century Flemish glass which is in superb condition. A Tudor doorway gives access to the Great Hall. It is unusual to find a Hall on the first floor, usually it would have been on the ground floor and the first floor would have been reserved for private chambers. The Hall is a long rectangular chamber with a large fireplace on one side. The room is simply furnished with period pieces including a well worn Elizabethan table and a late medieval chest which is the oldest item of furniture in the building. A unique feature of the Great Hall is the unusual open-beam roof, built to a king-post design. There is also some medieval stained glass. Adjacent to the Old Manor is Norbury Manor which was built in the mid15th century, was badly damaged during the English Civil War, and rebuilt about 1680. This building is not open to the public but is maintained by the Trust as holiday cottages. Next to the two manor houses is the medieval parish church of St Mary and St Barlok, not NT. The church is regularly open and contains medieval stained glass and memorials to the original Fitzherbert family who lived in the Old Manor. Also on the site is a well tended knot garden from where a trail leads to a summer house and then descends through a small wood to the banks of the river Dove. Overall the property is well worth a visit. During 2019 it will be open every Friday from 11.00am to 1.00pm and every Saturday from 1.00 to 3.00pm, from 22nd March to 26th October.
The Old Manor at Norbury, near Ashbourne • THE NT LEICESTER ASSOCIATION has an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 23rd January when David Bell will present a talk entitled “Trust Me I’m your Plague Doctor”. The meeting will be held at St Guthlac’s Memorial Hall, Holbrook Road, Leicester, at 2.30pm. • THERE WILL also be an evening meeting on Tuesday 12th February at The Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone, at 7.30pm. Colin Deeley (NT) will present an illustrated talk entitled “Life & Time in the Workhouse” Admission to meetings is NTLA members £2.50, visitors £4.00, including refreshments. For details of the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 2229133.
Alan Tyler, Publicity Officer
Here’s something new to do on Friday morning
Enjoy cooking or want to try something new?
Y
OU MIGHT be at work, shopping, volunteering or on a regular visit to friends. On the other hand you might be at home, either on your own, with family or someone you care for. You may be cleaning the house, washing the car, in the garden or watching daytime television. But 2019 is a new year and perhaps it’s time to try something new. If you spend a few hours out of the house the cleaning can wait, the garden won’t get out of control and you can always catch up with daytime television. And what a treat when you can go out, meet others and bring home to reheat a free lunch that has been freshly prepared. The Groby Community Kitchen/cook and chat sessions at the Forest Rise Community Centre ticks all these boxes. The ingredients for your lunch are provided free of charge and you can get involved with the preparation of the meal. It’s not exactly Ainsley Harriot’s Ready Steady Cook but it sounds as if it could be just as much fun, even for those too young to remember the trail blazing cookery show he hosted for 10 years to 2010. Whatever your age you will be made welcome. If this sounds interesting why sit at home when you can have a few hours out at no cost, come home with a tasty lunch, and even some recipes on simple meals to make with those left-overs in your fridge. “This is a great opportunity to do something different on a Friday morning,” said Jenny O’Shea, who is determined to get it established. “It’s been a great success elsewhere so even though the initial meetings weren’t a resounding success I believe this re-launch will establish it firmly on the village social calendar.” She could well be right, as the success of the Saturday Groby Tasters sessions at the URC demonstrate. Put the date in your diary – Friday 1 February 10am until 12 noon. If you want to know more just turn up or ask Rachel or Shirley on 01455 255941 or 01455 255942. If you’d rather speak to Jenny O’Shea ring 07828 257139.
Norman Griffiths
Why not come and join us at Groby Community Centre 10am – 12 noon Every Friday Starts Friday 1st February
FREE
Everything provided
If you are at a loose end on Friday please pop in to see what’s going on in your village. For more information call Rachel or Shirley 01455 255941/255942 earlshiltoncommunityhouse@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk or contact Jenny O’Shea – 07828 257139
Worked out at the YMCA this morning. Dressed as the indian this time.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Shopping Differently in 2019 LAST YEAR we saw programmes like ‘Blue Planet 2’, ‘Drowning in Plastic’ and ‘Stacey Dooley’s Fashion’s Dirty Secrets’. Many people are looking for ways to reduce their consumer impact on our environment. But it can seem overwhelming and can we as individuals make any real difference? The answer is yes! Collectively, individuals taking steps to change consumer habits all add up to making a big change. So whatever New Year’s resolution you were thinking of making, go ahead and make it. Whether it’s using your own Tupperware when buying meat and fish; switching to a reusable water bottle; taking reusable bags for groceries, choosing plastic free toiletries; rethinking where we buy our clothes from, we can all play our part. There are some wonderful local shops out there too, who are happy to help us, including The Zero Waste shop and The Just Shop, both in St Martin’s Square, Leicester.
‘Love Yourself – Heal Your Life’ (2 day Workshop)
DO YOU feel that there are blocks to you achieving the life you want? Are you ready to make changes to help you achieve your dreams? If so, you will be interested in an upcoming event in our community.
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Is the internet increasing your secret addictions? DON’T LET your access to the internet mess up your head. That is the warning of a number of experts who are calling for urgent action to address the growing problem of a range of mental health disorders.
Carol Deacon, certified and licensed Heal Your Life Workshop Teacher and Coach, will be leading a 2 day workshop based on the work and philosophy of Louise Hay, a renowned metaphysical Lecturer, Teacher and Author with more than 50 million books sold worldwide, including her International Best seller ‘You Can Heal Your Life’. The workshop will help participants identify negative beliefs that are limiting them and then learn simple, yet transformational techniques to release limitations and go beyond them. Participants will learn that loving themselves is the foundation for making positive changes. While this easy to say - it is often not easy to do! Using affirmations and visualisations along with other techniques, they will experience transformation as they heal the past and allow barriers to dissolve. Every area of life can be improved with this workshop: relationships, health, career and prosperity. New Year – New You! Why not invest in yourself and add value to your life by giving yourself the gift of a place on this transformational workshop. Date: Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th February 2019 (9.30am to 5.30pm). Venue: Ulverscroft Manor Activity Centre Priory Lane, Ulverscroft, Markfield, Leicestershire, LE67 9PH For more information about this workshop please go to www. Choosingtobe.co.uk
Now an international team of more than 100 researchers say that the ‘all pervasive’ nature of the web is driving not just ‘cyberchondria’, online hoarding and shopping addictions, but also problematic pornography use, gambling and excessive gaming, which is breaking up people’s lives. The report, published in European Neuropsychopharmacology, warns that users are becoming addicted and displaying obsessive behaviour, such as repeatedly checking emails and social media and suffering cravings and withdrawal if denied access. There is a name for such behaviour: Problematic Internet Use (PIU). The World Health Organisation recognised it in 2014 and warns it has now become a global social health issue.
Martinshaw Primary School Forest Rise, Groby WE ARE LOOKING TO RECRUIT A LUNCHTIME SUPERVISOR IN JANUARY. The successful candidate will be required to supervise and support children Monday to Friday for 1¼ hours per day from 11.55am to 1.10pm.
Window And Door Replacement
This is a PERMANENT term time appointment with a starting salary of £8.62 per hour (£16,631 full salary. Pro-rata over 38 weeks).
Summer Houses/Sheds
If you are interested in this post, please visit our website at www.martinshaw.leics.sch.uk for the full job description and application form and return your completed application either via the school office or email it to: manager@martinshaw.leics.sch.uk before the closing date of Monday 28th January 2019.
Kitchens
Interviews will take place on Friday 1st February 2019. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure.
Skirtings & Architraves Indoor Furniture Loft Conversions
Garden Furniture
Oak Doors & Fire doors
Made to Measure Furnishing Cupboards & Wardrobes
Hardwood And Laminate Flooring
GROBY-BASED CARPENTER & JOINER All carpentry and joinery works undertaken. Reliable and professional service. No-obligation quotes.
Christopher Harris
Tel: 0116 224 6454 (Home) or 07809 879321 (Mobile) Email: chrisharris0142@gmail.com
Even when all the experts agree, they may well be wrong.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Brookvale may be included in school parking fines scheme
Eat your way out of depression
A TRIAL to combat the problems of inconsiderate parking outside schools across the county, launched last September, has resulted in more than 50 fines.
WHAT YOU eat affects how you think. So says a recent international study, which has found evidence that a Mediterranean diet can cut the risk of depression - by reducing inflammation in the body. The study, conducted at University College London, found that people who ate plenty of fruit, vegetables, nuts, fish and plant-based foods, had a 33 per cent smaller chance of getting depression as compared with others who had diets high in saturated fat, sugar and processed food. As one doctor said: ‘There is compelling evidence to show that there is a relationship between the quality of your diet and your mental health.’
Last September the School Keep Clear scheme was launched, with one-off funding of £500,000, to address concerns that parents, residents and teachers have about parking outside schools. “We’re launching the scheme which essentially makes more zig-zag zones enforceable outside schools and believe it will go some way to alleviating concerns. We work closely with schools and colleges to improve issues around on-street parking as well as pedestrian and pupil safety and we invited schools to register their interest in the scheme,” said Councillor Blake Pain, County Council Cabinet Member for environment and transport. The work to make the zig-zag zones enforceable involves ensuring traffic regulation orders are in place and upgrading mandatory signs and lines so the zones are enforceable. A total of 32 schools that already have the necessary mandatory markings are taking part in the trial. Another 25 schools who have reported issues with parking also registered an interest, but needed further work at their locations in order to become eligible. Enforcement officers continue with their normal duties while a camera car is also being used as part of the scheme. Using automatic number plate recognition technology, the car is be used by officers to collect the necessary evidence to enable fines to be issued, via post, to drivers who park on zig-zag markings. The message to people parking on the zig-zag zones outside of schools was clear - anyone caught faced a £70 fine.
Councillor Pain added: “Ideally, the schools and local communities work together to encourage parents to park appropriately on the school run and we provide help and guidance on school travel plans to help tackle the problem where necessary. We know that inconsiderate and dangerous parking outside schools can be a real problem, and we hope that this trial proves to be a major deterrent and a big boost to road safety. Since the beginning of September, 22 warnings have been issued and 54 penalties have been processed.”
Brookvale may be included More schools are lined up to be included in the camera car scheme to catch drivers who park illegally, and it hoped that Groby’s Brookvale will be included. At January’s Parish Council meeting a resident expressed concern at the continuing problem of parents using the cemetery car park as a drop off and pick up zone for schoolchildren. Some residents have said that their visits to what they feel should be a place of peace and quiet remembrance have been marred by noisy or unruly children not under appropriate parental control and who are often too young to appreciate the offence they cause. Groby Parish Council is still assessing the best way of controlling illegal parking at the cemetery. The car park is for the use of visitors to the cemetery only and unauthorised parking may be subject to further action. All persons visiting the cemetery should act in a responsible manner whilst in the grounds.
Norman Griffiths
Cook’s Farm Shop & Country Supplies
Markfield Lane Newtown Linford Leics LE6 0AB 01530 242214
Wild Bird Food – Niger Seed – Sunflower Hearts – Robin Mix High Energy Mix – No Mess Mixes – Feeders - Peanuts – Plus much, much more!!! Extensive range of animal feeds available, plus much more
www.cooksfarmshop.co.uk House Coal – Smokeless Coal – Logs – Kindling – Firelighters
****Rock salt for Driveways **** Beef – Pork – Lamb – Chicken – Sausage - Bacon – Ham – etc. Brocklebys Pies – Clarkes Ready Meals - Fresh Farm Eggs Potatoes – Fruit & Veg – Butter – Cheese Milk - etc Open – Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30 pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Sundays – 10am to 1pm
Do not question my commitment to whatever it is we are talking about.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Newbold Verdon Jazz Club
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Programme showcases Leicester’s heritage
THE NEW Year started with a welcome return of The Savannah Jazz Band at Newbold Verdon Jazz Club. As usual the band provided us with a great evening of traditional jazz starting with a rousing version of Washington and Lee Swing and continuing with many well loved jazz tunes. Roger Myerscough played the beautiful clarinet solo, Hymn to Freedom which was well received by the audience and the harmonica played by Bill Smith made a nice addition to the normal line up. The band got all the audience joining in with You are My Sunshine and sent us all home in a happy frame of mind for the coming year. We look forward to seeing them again next year. • NEXT MONTH sees New Orleans Heat entertaining us with no doubt some great piano playing by Barry Grummett. Do come and join us on Friday 1st February at Newbold Verdon Social Club. Admission £9, doors open at 7.00pm. Music from 8.00 10.30pm. For more details please contact Pauline on 01162 865496 or Kelvin on 01455 822824.
A PROGRAMME of work is set to highlight Leicester’s heritage through information boards, displays and public art. Leicester City Council is investing £300,000 to build on existing heritage interpretation, extending the range of historic sites, buildings and key characters from the city’s past that will be brought to life, particularly in the city centre. Funding for the project will come from resources set aside under the city council’s Economic Action Plan. Proposals include extending the 112 existing heritage interpretation panels in the city centre to other neighbourhoods, for example focusing on the old Turkish Baths in Friar Lane and highlighting the work of important city architects Arthur Wakerley and Ernest Gimson. There are also plans to use digital technology to make information and stories available via mobile devices. The plan, focusing on the Old Town and drawing on the Roman, medieval and Victorian eras, could allow visitors to access voice recordings, images, sound effects and even view recreations of long-gone buildings. A second branch of work will support curated displays at New Market Square, including the projection of heritage information onto the large screen wall at the rear of the historic Corn Exchange building. Meanwhile, a third area of work will include a heritage-themed public art installation on the newlyrevealed walls created by the demolition of Dolphin Square and the creation of the new link between Town Hall Square and the market.
The city council is also planning to attract match funding from outside organisations in addition to its own £300,000 investment, in order to develop and expand the work further. Consultation with key stakeholders and the public will help determine the exact subject matter and focus for each of the work strands. Leicester Deputy City Mayor Piara Singh Clair said: “Leicester has 2,000 years’ worth of fascinating stories to tell, and this heritage interpretation work has proved to be a popular and easy-to-access way visitors and residents alike can find out more. “The city has a wealth of Victorian architecture, as well as notable medieval sites and some impressive Roman remains, all of which play an important role in the city’s history and identity. “The creation of New Market Square, and the soon-tobe-completed link between Town Hall Square and the market, mean we have additional public space which could be ideal for this purpose.” The latest projects are designed to build on the success of the popular heritage interpretation work carried out across the city from 2013-2017. Those focused on key eras of Leicester’s history using a colour-coded system, and have proved popular with residents and visitors alike. The work content has been used to help shape and deliver the Story of Leicester website (www. storyofleicester.info) Some subjects, such as King Richard III and Thomas Cook, have resulted in the development of bespoke heritage trails, accompanied by supporting information booklets and online resources.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
News from Groby Allotment Society What about those New Year Resolutions? WE WISH all of you a very Happy and a Healthy New Year and wonder if you have made any resolutions to lead a healthier life this year? If so, Groby Allotment Society may be able to help! The New Year always brings a few changes of tenant on the allotments as people either move away or decide to reduce their plot size to something more manageable as they suffer a change of circumstances where they have other pressures on their time. So, it is likely that we will have a few plots available to rent soon. If you are interested, there is no better way of increasing your exercise level than tending an allotment! The added benefits are that, should you choose to grow our own vegetables, you also get to eat a healthier diet as nothing tastes quite so nice as things you have grown yourself, plus the fact that you spend more time out in the fresh air and make new friends on neighbouring plots too! If you want to know a little more, email grobyallotments@yahoo.com , or phone 0116 2988298.
Gillian Palmer, Maria Woods, ‘Santa’ and Amanda Billings
Our last Social GetTogether in December WE HELD our last Open Shed Sunday on 9th December, which had a seasonal theme, offering mince pies and mulled wine as well as our usual very popular bacon butties! We even had a visit from Santa! Most importantly though, we had a presentation for the three wonderful ladies who have worked so hard all year catering for the Open Shed Sunday events! A sincere thank you (you know who you are!) from the committee and everyone who has enjoyed the food and drink and making the socialising on the monthly Sunday morning get-togethers so much more enjoyable!
to make sure I don’t encourage any disease to set in and so keep the plants healthy. I’ve had problems with white fly on all my greens this year. Nothing seems to deter them, not even the coldest weather and so I’ve resorted to putting up sticky fly traps to try and remove them. I also need to mulch my fruit plants and prune my autumn raspberry canes, but the recent cold spell of weather is not enticing me out for too long. It is much easier to spend the time planning what and where to grow my vegetables this year, from the warmth of a chair by the fire!
Metaldehyde Ban THIS YEAR, metaldehyde, the chemical in many
brands of slug pellets, is being banned. So, many brands of slug pellets will no longer be available. This may sound like bad news for all gardeners at first, but the main reason it is being banned is that it is toxic to many of the creatures that keep slugs under control naturally, such as birds and hedgehogs as well as many other mammals such as cats and dogs. There have also been reports of metaldehyde run-off reaching streams, rivers and even contaminating the sea. Goodness knows what the consequences of that will be for all of us! We will still be able to buy those slug pellets which are nontoxic, containing ferric phosphate,
or you can use other methods of slug control such as beer traps, (which I have found to be the best) or putting grit around plants and making your garden or allotment free of slug hiding places such as removing stones, pots and other bits of wood and debris which they can crawl under. I have also tried to encourage more of the slug-eating hedgehogs, frogs, and birds to my plot to get rid of them naturally. Failing that there is the slug patrol at dusk with a torch, if you can bear to pick them up (yuk)! I’ll leave it up to you to decide how to deal with them after you’ve collected them though!!
Carol Lincoln
Leicester City Council
World War I exhibitions now available to hire - free of charge THREE pop-up exhibitions produced to commemorate the centenary of Armistice Day are now available to hire.
Jobs to do on the allotment this month I STILL have brussels sprouts, kale and spinach on my plot for me to harvest. I have already lifted all of my parsnips and am storing them in the garage, but any left in the ground can also be dug up now. I am checking my brussels sprout plants, not only to pick the sprouts that are big enough to eat now but also to remove any yellowing leaves
Based on the three exhibitions created by the city council’s museums service as part of the Leicester Remembers series, the six-panel displays can be hired – free of charge – by schools, places of worship, clubs or community groups. The first exhibition looks at the first two years of World War I, the second focuses on the Battle of the Somme in 2016, while the third display – From the Trenches to the Twenties – covers the final year of the war and its aftermath. Any group interested in hiring the mini exhibitions should contact Philip French at Newarke Houses Museum on 0116 454 6600. From the Trenches to the Twenties – the final exhibition in the Leicester Remembers project – continues at Leicester’s Newarke Houses Museum until Sunday 24 February. The exhibition looks at the final year of the war, the aftermath of more than four years of horrific conflict, and the Spanish flu epidemic that continued to kill millions around the world after the war had ended. Focusing on the impact of the war on those who fought in it and those who remained at home, the exhibition also charts the Leicestershire Regiment’s role in major campaigns, including the German Spring Offensive and the breaking of the Hindenburg Line. As part of the exhibition, the First World War trench scene – the most popular exhibit at Newarke Houses Museum – has been refurbished, thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Everyone who smoked after I quit smoking is so disgusting.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby Gardening Society News ~ December Meeting ~ THE DECEMBER meeting, the final one of the year, took the form of a social evening with food supplied by - and for - the members of the Society, with added entertainment in a friendly competition of “guess what’s in the bag!”. Each table were given a sealed cloth bag containing 20 everyday household items, which had to be identified by touch alone without opening the bag. Most teams correctly identified most of the items, and bonus points were given for the most accurate answers. It must have been a success, since several people wanted to borrow the bags to use at their own Christmas festivities. The winning teams won magnificent prizes of chocolates and biscuits, which were speedily despatched. Well, it was Christmas! A brief recap of the society’s activities through the year: we had a talk on the work of the National Trust in February from Alan Tyler, Plants for a Place in March by Sally Cunningham, Wildlife and the Environment in April by Simon Gulliver, a trip to the University of Leicester Botanical Gardens in June, Colleen Powell gave us a talk on Helping Hedgehogs in July, John and Martin from Rutland Willows gave a talk on willow working in August, Mick Eaton helped us with Preparing for Christmas in September, Stuart Dixon gave a talk on Autumn in the Garden in October, and Rod Weston gave a talk on Home Composting in November. A highlight for many was the 3-day trip to Llandudno in July, with warm sunny weather throughout the trip, and we also ran a Beetle Drive social evening in May. The Plant Sale and Village Show in August were also successful. Following Mick Eaton’s talk on preparing bulbs for Christmas flowering, we followed his advice for narcissi and hyacinths. Keeping the potted bulbs cool was difficult, and the narcissi flowered earlier than anticipated, but the photo shows the hyacinths in flower just a couple of days before Christmas. If you like the sound of what we get up to, why not come along to a meeting and try us out. Our monthly meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of each month in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill, Groby. You’ll be sure of a warm welcome, along with a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit! Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Eric Atherton. (Tel. No. 0116 287 6637) or Email e.atherton637@btinternet.com. The AGM will take place on January 10th, 2019. Please note that the Society’s first day trip of 2019 to see the Snowdrops at Easton Walled Garden near Grantham, including a visit to Gates’ Garden Centre at Cold Overton has been arranged for Saturday 23rd February 2019. A Roberts Travel Group 49-seater executive coach will pick-up from Groby Village Hall. The cost will be £34 per person. For further details and to book, please contact Beverley 07929 070309 or Jane 0116 239 5350.
Keith Poole
The pen is mightier than the sword but you have a gun so here is my wallet.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby Village Society
News from Martinshaw School Entertaining the ‘Greys of Groby’
Programme 2019 Thursday January 24 Members Evening Thursday February 28 Victorian Music Hall on Film Bob Massey Thursday March 28 Annual General Meeting To be held at the Library Thursday April 25 Rest in Peace Brian Johnson Thursday May 23 Joseph Merrick Ann Featherstone Thursday June 27 Radicals and Rebels David Bell Thursday July 25 Amber Autumn, Golden Glens Peter Amour Thursday August 22 A Palace by a River Mike Ogden Thursday September 26 The Viking Way of Life Sandy Leong Thursday October 24 A Tibetan Journey Alan Clements Thursday November 28 Wandering Winnie Celia Sanger December No Meeting
Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm. unless stated otherwise For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842 e-mail:- pcastell42@gmail.com Non Members are Welcome
Just decide! “It’s been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will.”
Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
In what has now become a Christmas tradition, the school Choir, made up of about 25 students from Years 2 to 5, went along to Groby Community Centre to sing to the Greys of Groby, an activity that is very much enjoyed, not only by the audience but by the choir themselves. A member of the Greys was heard to comment that for them the lead up to Christmas didn’t feel as if it had started until after the visit. The choir sang a number of songs culminating with the ‘12 Days of Christmas’, along with the actions, with a particularly melodious and mature solo from year 5’s Alex. They then sang it again with a very enthusiastic audience participation.
In Any Order As a Christmas treat, the school was visited and entertained by the well known local Folk Group, ‘In Any Order’, a very talented group who play traditional and fun ‘Folk Tunes’ with audience participation being actively encouraged. However, what made the visit doubly exciting for the students was when they were told that group member Steve White had been the school’s headmaster only 13 years ago.
Cardiology Following on from years 5 and 6’s half term topic, the study of the well known children’s novel ‘ Pig Heart Boy’ and the examination of a Pigs heart, they enjoyed a visit by a Cardiology Specialist Nurse. She was able to explain to the students about the electrical workings of the heart and how pacemakers were fitted to regulate the heart rhythm and keep people alive. A real pacemaker was shown and examined and a number of very searching questions were asked. So, now with about 60 budding Cardiologists populating the school, if you experience a sudden shortness of breath or chest pains, don’t worry ‘cos year 5 and 6 will be there.
Elvis (The Naughty) Elf For about 3 weeks before Christmas, year 1 was visited by an Elf. It was thought that he had come from the North Pole and was, in fact, one of Santa’s Elves. However, this Elf was extremely
naughty and the children tried very hard to set a good example in order for Elvis, thats his name, to hopefully, mend his ways. Whenever he was left on his own, he did not clear toys away, he threw flour about, he did not flush the toilet, jumped into the washingup bowl and was even found sitting with a pint of Guinness on a trip out to the Toy museum. It wasn’t a real pint of beer, but Elvis didn’t know that of course.
Then they found out that Early Years was being visited by Elvis’ sister, the equally naughty Jemima Merrybottom, who was also running them ragged. However, suffice to say, that after their visit and being exposed to the excellent pre Christmas behaviour of the children, Elvis and Jemima returned to the North Pole having vowed to behave, not just until after Christmas but for at least the next thousand years. I understand that Santa was so impressed that full stockings were promised to all the KS 1 children on Christmas Eve.
Toys of ‘The Olden Days’ Year 1 were able to question a visitor who was born during WW2, about the sort of toys that were played with during the post war austerity period. It was explained to them how children of those days would perhaps only receive one or two presents at Christmas time and how they would probably be made of wood. They were invited to ask questions about the type of toys that would be played with, such as ‘whips and tops’ and skipping ropes, etc. They were told how children in those days tended to play outside rather than sitting in their houses as there were no televisions or computers. Comics books and board games were the main source of indoor entertainment. To demonstrate some of the toys that were talked about, the class was taken on a very interesting trip to the Newark House Toy Museum, where they not only had the opportunity to see some of those toys but to touch and play with them.
‘Healing Your Heart After Loss’ (3-hour workshop) ARE YOU grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, your health, a job or career, or a pet? If you are finding it difficult to move beyond the loss then you will be interested in an upcoming event in our community. Carol Deacon, certified and licensed Heal Your Life Workshop Teacher and Coach, will be leading a 3-hour workshop based on the work and philosophy of Louise Hay, a renowned metaphysical Lecturer and Teacher, and Author with more than 50 million books sold worldwide, including her International Best seller ‘You Can Heal Your Life’. This workshop will help you learn the ideas and techniques to heal your heart, find acceptance of the loss and find the joy in life again. You will experience: The power of sharing with others who are dealing with loss; A meditation for finding peace; Forgiveness work; A releasing ritual and 12 ways to love yourself. New Year – New You! Why not invest in yourself and add value to your life by giving yourself (or a friend) the gift of a place on this transformational workshop. Date: Saturday 9th February 2019 (9.30am to 12.30pm) Venue: Ulverscroft Manor Activity Centre, Priory Lane, Ulverscroft, Markfield, Leicestershire, LE67 9PH For more information about this workshop please go to www. Choosingtobe.co.uk
Owen Lawrence
I am now on three dating sites because you can never get enough rejection.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby’s Got Talent!
Call the team you can trust.
Mikayla Wildgoose Selected for England Squad MIKAYLA WILDGOOSE, a Year 9 student at Brookvale Groby Learning Campus, plays for Leicester City Women’s U14’s team.
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Testimonials on Trustatrader “The whole experience was professionally & efficiently managed, courteous & friendly. I am completely satisfied with the work done.” Mr T J Norris Testimonials on Trustatrader “Incredibly tidy, friendly and professional. A pleasure to have around, extremely honest and considerate. Superb service all round.” Mr McVeigh
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We are also giving away
FREE Upgrade to Triple Glazing on all Windows FREE Downpipes with all Fascia Soffits and Guttering
• Windows • Doors • Conservatories • Porches • Roofline
On Sunday 11th November she was selected to represent the Midands in a Regional Trial organised by the English Schools Football Association. Mikayla successfully made it through to represent the Midlands in the international trials. These U15’s trials, were held on the 9th December at Stafford Town FC, where she competed with the best players from the South West, Sout East and North regional trials, for final England squad selection. Congratulations to Mikayla, as she has been selected for the U15’s Girls England squad 2018 - 19! WELL DONE MIKAYLA!
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Downsizing our social life WHAT DO you most enjoy doing with your spare evenings? Going to a party? Probably not – for it seems that the joy of not going out has become the new thing to brag about. It used to be a childhood punishment: go to bed early, don’t leave the house. Now it is discussed as an adult ‘self-care’ goal – even Kate Moss has praised the benefits of binge-sleeping. All this cosy staying-at-home is not confined to the middle-aged and upwards; 82 percent of 18-to30-year-olds have admitted to cancelling plans with friends in favour of an early night and hangover-free morning. All in all, no wonder that by late last year pubs were closing at a rate of 18 a week. Half of the nation’s nightclubs shut down between 2005 and 2015. There is even a big slump in ‘casual dining’ out. The American news site Vox has recently christened this new movement the ‘homebody economy’. For though at home, we are still spending, via streaming services and delivery apps. But at least we don’t have to look for a parking space!
LANDLORDS, ARE YOU UNHAPPY WITH YOUR CURRENT AGENT ? Your property is likely to be your biggest asset and you need an agent you can trust. Oaktree Lettings is a local independent agent and we pride ourself on our professional but friendly service, dealing with landlord clients who have one or numerous properties predominantly in the West Leicestershire area. If you are unhappy with your current agent and wish to instruct us to take over the management of your property or properties, we will deal with the transfer from your current agent for you and give you the first two month’s management free! Most of our clients have found us through recommendation and continue to recommend us We are happy to offer a letting only service or full management at very competitive fully inclusive rates with no hidden charges we also offer rent guarantee and legal cover to protect your investment further For more information please contact Marianne or Louise
Birthdays A birthday is just the first day of another 365-day journey around the sun. Enjoy the trip.
T: 0116 2870334
Oaktree Lettings And Management
E: lettings@oaktreelettings.co.uk
86 Faire Road, Glenfield,
W: www.oaktreelettings.co.uk
Leicester, LE3 8ED
I’m having an introvert party and you’re all not invited.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby Community Library News A Happy New Year 2019 to all our Library Users and Café Customers Your Library needs YOU!
Winter Writing
HAVE YOU overspent at Christmas and feeling a bit bored and fed up in January and you’re not going on an exotic holiday?
DID YOU know that the Author J.R.R. Tolkien was born on the 3rd January in 1892?
Do you want a new interest but don’t want spend money on a new hobby or club? Fancy something for FREE? Here’s a suggestion, come and join the Library it’s FREE and so is the WIFI. We only need to see ID to register you as a member, no joining fee or waiting. Why not start the year by reading a new book or an old favourite?
Change of Opening hours FOLLOWING a public poll we have decided for a trial period to change the Library opening hours to suit the preferences expressed. The café will also open at these times and stop serving 30 mins before the Library closes. From the 1st February – May 31st 2019, the opening times of the Groby Community Library and Time Out Café will change. Monday 2.00-5.00 pm Tuesday 9.30 am -1.00pm Wednesday 2.00-5.00 pm Thursday 9.30 am -1.00 pm Friday 2.00-6.00pm Saturday 10.00 am -1.00pm
Photos of Libraries from around the world LIBRARIES are very special and safe places; you can find them in almost all countries in the world. Almost always entry is free. Some countries have very different types of Libraries from the Groby Community Library. For instance, in some towns in Italy there are Libraries in parks, in Kenya there are Camel Libraries and in some parts of the UK including Leicestershire there are Libraries operating in vans. If you visit another part of the UK /or go abroad and see a Library please take a photo. We would love to have a Selfie of you and the Library (or just the Library if Selfies’ are not your thing.) Bring in a print copy of your photo or make a print in the Library and we’ll put it on display. Let’s see how many Libraries we can photograph this year. And …oh yes there will be prizes for the best ones! Children and Adults will be judged in separate categories.
Tolkien is best known as the author of “The Lord of the Rings.” If you’ve seen the movie and like Tolkien, why not read the book? Another wonderful book by Tolkien is “The Hobbit” this is, in movie terms the prequel to “Lord of the Rings. Here’s a couple of lines of poetry for all of us who don’t think we like or understand poetry. “O, wind, if winter comes, can spring be far behind?” ... Percy Bysshe Shelley “To read a poem in January is as lovely as to go for a walk in June”. ... Jean – Paul Satre These are surprisingly hopeful and easy to understand. You never know poetry may be your thing?
Winter Thoughts “What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” ... John Steinbeck “Blow, blow, thou winter wind, thou art not so unkind as man’s ingratitude.” ... William Shakespeare “A man says a lot of things in summer he doesn’t mean in winter.” ... Patricia Briggs “It seems like everything sleeps in winter, but it’s really a time of renewal and reflection.” ... Elizabeth Camden “There are two seasons in Scotland: June and Winter.” ... The Big Yin, Billy Connolly
Dr. Janet Harrison
Vice Chair, Groby Community Library Trustee.
I got the sack from my job on the Bumper Cars. I’m appealing against funfair dismissal.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Letter to the editor from Norman Griffiths ‘Vet’s planning application was old news by November’ Dear Sir RESIDENTS may have read a chalkboard notice placed outside the Flint store on Ratby Road. It claimed that I implied in a Spotlight article in November that Flint “HAD or was closing immediately.” This is not the case. Nothing in the article suggested that the shop had either closed or would close immediately. I would appreciate space to answer some of the questions that have been raised.
What was the article about?
A planning application for a change of use of 15 Ratby Road to a referral veterinary practice.
Was the change of use approved by the Borough Council? No, but an appeal is being considered by the Planning Inspectorate.
Did you imply that Flint had closed or was closing immediately?
No. The article was about the change of use application. Nothing in the article suggested that the shop had either closed or would close immediately.
Then why did you mention Flint?
15 Ratby Road is hard to find as no street numbers are displayed. The words “currently occupied by Flint,” were inserted to avoid confusion with other properties and businesses.
Did the article say anything that wasn’t already public knowledge? • • • • •
No. The planning application was dated September 12th A notice was placed in front of the premises by the Borough Council on October 8th (see photograph) The change of use application was discussed at a public meeting in the Village Hall on October 10th On the same day a public notice was printed in the Leicester Mercury, which has 79,000 readers The Borough Council also sent letters to neighbours. By the time the mid November Spotlight came out it had been public knowledge for 2 months.
Is the misleading chalkboard notice still displayed outside the shop?
No. It had the potential to damage my reputation within the village community after 35 years of reporting on local affairs. Although I was advised it was defamatory, libellous, and might be criminal harassment, I asked for the board to be taken down as I decided that the police have more important matters to pursue.
The HBBC Planning Notice
Why should I believe what you say?
Don’t take my word for it. Read the article on www.grobyonline.tk and make your own mind up.
Can I ask you a question about this matter? Of course. Just email contact@grobyonline.tk
Should I let this row stop me shopping at Flint?
No. If we want to retain a thriving retail community we need to support our local shops to ensure they don’t disappear in the same way as Groby’s shoe, clothing, antique and wool shops.
Norman Griffiths Editor’s note : Norman was concerned that the allegations might damage his reputation for fair and accurate reporting, and was pleased to receive the support of Parish Council Chairman Brian Rigby and members of the Council when he presented his case at a public meeting. Councillor Peter Batty said he had not seen anything over the years for which he would criticise Norman’s integrity or motives. Borough Councillor Martin Cartwright added that there was nothing in the article which would justify such a notice being put outside the shop.
Making Tax Digital: how VAT businesses and other VAT entities can get ready IF YOU run a VAT-registered business with a taxable turnover above the VAT registration threshold (currently £85,000) you are required to keep digital VAT business records and send returns using Making Tax Digital (MTD)compatible software. The vast majority of businesses will need to do this for VAT periods starting on or after 1 April 2019. Businesses with a taxable turnover below the VAT threshold can also sign up for MTD for VAT voluntarily. The MTD pilot for VAT started in April 2018 and is now open to VAT businesses and their agents mandated to use the service from April 2019. Joining the pilot now will help you prepare for these changes sooner and your feedback will also help to shape the service as it continues to develop. If you have an agent, you should speak to them to find out when it may be best for you to join the pilot.
I don’t have bad handwriting ... I have my own font.
Why you should not keep your curtains closed IN DARK rooms, 12 per cent of bacteria can reproduce; in rooms exposed to sunlight, only 6.8 per cent can reproduce. Remember that when you consider your household dust and the effect that simply opening your curtains can make. Researchers at the University of Oregon point out that we spend most of our time indoors, ‘where exposure to dust particles that carry a variety of bacteria, including pathogens that can make us sick, is unavoidable.’ But we can do something - let the sun stream in. The study found that it helps to kill the human skin-derived bacteria in our homes. As one doctor put it: ‘Our study supports a century-old folk wisdom that daylight has the potential to clean – or, as we now know, to kill microbes on dust particles.’
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
What’s been happening at Groby WI
Groby & Field Head Spotlight
MY FRIEND and I joined a coach trip from WI House for a visit to Stratford Upon Avon’s Victorian Christmas Market.
PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT
Telephone
01530-244069 Email us at: info@ grobyspotlight.co.uk Visit the website at www.grobyspotlight.co.uk 3,500 copies distributed 11 times a year (no issue in July) to homes and businesses in Groby, Field Head and The Brantings. Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head. Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press. The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight. None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.
NEXT ISSUE OUT ON: 16th February 2019 DEADLINE: 2nd Feb 2019
We were lucky with the weather, cold but dry. We have been to several German Markets and quite frankly have found them to be all the same. However, Stratford’s market was very different. The town itself lends itself to holding one, along the river bank, up one street, down the other with various alleys. The stalls were very varied, plenty of wines, loads of different foods, lots of clothing, leather goods and plenty of toy stalls plus too many to mention. We considered it a very good market and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. A visit next year is highly recommended. AT OUR Christmas party we were entertained by ladies from Donnington WI who kept us entertained with a little play. It was based on the centenary of the Suffragette movement, a member of which Union meets up with two ladies from the newly formed WI movement. There were a lot of laughs with references to Groby and certain of our members. Happily it had a happy ending. A lovely supper was served up thanks to Diane and the tables were very pretty again due to the hard work of various members. Of course we had to end with a singalong of carols, a very happy evening. WE HAVE had a quiet time during December due to our own festivities. Early in the month we went to the Curve to see ‘White Christmas’ which we thoroughly enjoyed. We then visited the newly re-opened Haymarket Theatre to see ‘Treasure Island’.
2018 BROUGHT us a very varied programme. Various speakers ranging from our annual charity speaker to the Cocktail Boys (a very noisy meeting!), demonstrations of fused glass (which lead to quite a few members going to a class and fusing glass themselves. A lovely chap from Lakeland brought what we thought was half the store with him; he was the manager and very funny. There was also a beauty speaker who gave tips on how to improve ourselves, personally I feel my looks could do with a new face altogether. June was especially a good night out, we held a dinner at The Devonshire Hotel, this treat was because it was our official birthday 65 years, not bad going and still drawing in new members. Our guest speaker was our own Cathy Stephens who entered into the spirit giving a lovely talk and donating some lovely raffle prizes, a big thank you to her. We had load of trips of various kinds from stately homes to Pie
Night at Beaumanor Hall, theatre visits to the Curve and Kilworth House, even making a pork pie, regular cinema visits always to be followed by a nosh-up afterwards, we don’t stint ourselves. 2019 LOOKS very exciting. Several trips to the theatre have been booked for January and February and later in the year ‘Girl on the Train, Circus Berserk, Bank Robbery, Captain Corelli’s Mandelin, Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet, Prescilla Queen of the Desert, West Side Story, My Fair Lady and War Horse’, something for everyone. Our monthly meetings programme also is very varied, we hope we have something for everyone. Our talks are covering everything from chocolate, charity, handbags, vineyards and lots more, including a gin evening - what more could a girl ask for? There are lots of outings planned to all sorts of places and plenty of homemade social events. Do come along and give us a try, we have a lot more younger members joining us now so they are keeping us up to date with their ideas which are very welcome. Our first meeting of the year is as usual at the Village Hall on Thursday, 17th January at 7.30 p.m. Visitors are allowed three visits to give us a try (at a small cost), most after that, join and they are made very welcome. So on behalf of Groby WI may we wish all in Groby (and farther afield), a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR, I have a feeling it’s going to be a great one. A big thank you to Judy and Diane for all their help.
Margaret
Glenfield Millennium Green News WE WERE delighted to be joined again by members of the Ratby Co-operative Youth Brass Band who accompanied our Carols on the Green on Saturday 22nd December. This year the weather was kind to us, no rain and not too cold, and around 70 people turned out to sing. Those who come regularly say that they feel Christmas has begun when they join us in the Brantings area. Afterwards the warm fruit punch and mince pies were enjoyed as a reward. Thanks to the band –we hope the retiring collection will help to promote your work during 2019. Planning for the New Year is already underway. As always we would welcome new ideas from users of the Green, for community events and ways to raise money. We are also in need of people to help with our planning and who could assist at events. The Trustees of the Green would welcome at least two, or more, volunteers who would consider becoming Trustees. The Millennium Green is run by a charitable trust and not by the Parish Council. However the land is owned by the Parish Council and will revert to them completely if the Trust fails for any reason. • WHY NOT COME to our AGM on Tuesday February 19th at 7.30pm. It is being held at Park House, Stamford Street, Glenfield. After the meeting light refreshments will be available. Don’t forget to let us have any used postage stamps you have saved from your Christmas post. For details phone 0116 299 1868.
Chris Tordoff I hope my travel mug tells stories to all my stay-at-home dishes.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Feeling S.A.D. this winter?
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By Hollie Jordan, Happy Head Hypnotherapy
THE WINTER BLUES, known more formally as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects 1 in 3 of us in the UK. This article will look at what SAD is, why we get it and what we can do to alleviate symptoms. SAD is commonly experienced during the winter months and symptoms often alleviate as the days get lighter as we approach Spring/Summer. The symptoms of SAD may include low mood, worry and irritability. Some people may find that they are sleeping longer than normal and are struggling to get up in the morning. Often, feeling lethargic or sleepy throughout the day as a result. Some find that they lose interest in everyday activities and experience feelings of guilt, hopelessness and worthlessness. It may be a good idea to visit your GP if your symptoms are severe and are affecting day to day activities. It is not known for sure what causes SAD but it is thought that it has something to do with shorter daylight hours we have during the winter months. Studies show that a lack of sunlight stops a part of our brain working properly and this may affect the production of Serotonin. Serotonin is sometimes referred to as the ‘Happy chemical’ and when we produce Serotonin we are happy, nice and can generally cope better with what life has in store for us. Lower Serotonin levels are linked to depression. Lower light levels may also affect your Circadian rhythm (your natural body clock) which also leads to symptoms of SAD.
What can we do? There are many things we can do to alleviate the symptoms of SAD, these include: • Light Therapy - Get yourself a light box which is a special lamp used to imitate natural light and uses a different bulb to the ones we use around the house. Alternatively, make the most of the sunlight we do get by getting outdoors during the day as much as you can. • Light Exercise – Regular exercise will reduce stress, release endorphins and boost serotonin. Even better if you can exercise outdoors during the day!
• Engage in positivity – People who have a negative outlook may experience SAD more than those that don’t. Thinking positively, practising mindfulness or meditating will help you to be more positive. • Talk – talk to family/friends about how you are feeling. Having a chat and a cuppa might be just the antidote. Positive interactions are thought to get our Serotonin flowing! • Do things you enjoy – Whether it’s binge-watching your favourite TV show or reading a book; taking a few moments to indulge in something you truly enjoy will give you a burst of positive energy. • Hypnotherapy – Hypnotherapy is a mixture of talking therapy and hypnosis which helps you to create new, positive behaviour changes to make lasting change. It may give you just the boost you need. Whatever you choose to help get you through the long, cold, dark nights of winter always remember…..summer is coming! Hollie Jordan, Clinical Hypnotherapist based in Battram www.happyheadhypnotherapy.co.uk holliejordan@happyheadhypnotherapy.co.uk Tel: 07817 907314
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The man who took British Airways to court after his luggage went missing has lost his case.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Borough Councillors’ Report from Martin & Ted Parish Poll – Klondyke Steering Group The Parish Poll Klondyke steering group will present the proposals to Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council which are a Community Hub on the site to all members of the Steering Group on Friday January 18th 2019. If the Klondyke and surrounding area issues are to be resolved this requires everybody to be as committed as possible to making these proposals work. The outcome of the next meeting is critical and without doubt will formulate the way forward to this most difficult of issues being the future of the Klondyke. Those attending are as follows: Cllr. Martin Cartwright: Chairman Parish Poll Klondyke steering group, Edward Argar: MP, Cllr. Brian Rigby: Chairman Groby Parish Council (GPC), Cllr. Peter Batty: GPC, Cllr. Ted Hollick: GPC & HBBC, Mr. Nick Hutchin: Architect for GPC, Mrs. Alixe Taylor: Clerk to GPC, Mr. Steve Brown: Groby community representation, Mr. George West: Groby community representation, Mr. Bill Cullen: Chief Executive HBBC, Mr. Rob Parkinson: Deputy Chief Executive HBBC, Ms. Gemma Dennis: Team Leader (Development Management) HBBC, Ms. Maddie Shellard: Anti Social Behaviour Officer HBBC, Cllr. Mike Hall: Leader of HBBC, Cllr. Richard Allen: Executive member for planning HBBC, Cllr. David Bill MBE: Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader HBBC, Cllr. Ozzy O’Shea: County Councillor for Groby. Mr. John Caswell: Groby Juniors Football Club (GJFC). Mr. Paul Chick: GJFC. Mr. Norman Grittiths: Spotlight correspondent. I doubt a more impressive representation of Cllr’s and Officers of both HBBC and Groby Parish Council will ever get together again in one place at the same time in an attempt to move forward the issues of the Klondyke and surrounding area. The outcome of the meeting will be reported in the February edition of the Spotlight.
Borough Celebrates its Sporting Heroes I would like to congratulate Elizabeth Woodville Primary School in Groby for being a joint winner of the Primary School of the year award. VICKY MACQUEEN, former England international rugby player and recipient of a British Empire Medal for services to women’s rugby, was the special guest at this year’s Hinckley and Bosworth
Martin Cartwright Call: 0116 287 4500 Mobile: 078 50 70 70 50 E-mail: hbbc@appliancehome.co.uk Write: Maverick House, 10 Pine Tree Avenue Groby, LE6 0EQ Sports and Health Alliance Awards evening. During the event, Vicky spoke about her career and her experience setting up the highly successful children’s Diddi rugby programme to a packed audience of sporting nominees and their supporters. The award winners were as follows: • Sportsperson of the yearjoint winners Martin Mayfield (powerlifting) and Jaco Van Biljon (Invictus Games) • Junior Sportsperson of the year - Megan Havers (Archery) • Disabled Sportsperson of the year - Matthew Chilvers (Tennis) • Junior Disabled Sportsperson of the year - joint winners Harry-Ray Tyrrell (Swimming) and Isabel Dean (Swimming) • Club of the Year - NKF Burbage FC (Football) • Team of the Year - Hinckley Gymnastics Club World Championship Team (Downs Syndrome) • Volunteer of the Year - Errol Tuitt (Football) • Junior Volunteer of the Year Heather Smith (Sailing) • Coach of the Year - Joint winners Beth Edge/Lucy Roberts (Gymnastics) and Alec Matty (Tennis) • Lifetime Achievement - Craig Perkins (Boxing) • Active Lifestyle Award - Susan Stephens (LCFC Fan) • Active Business Award - The School of Ballet Theatre UK • School of the Year Primary joint winners Elizabeth Woodville Primary School and Westfield Junior School • School of the Year Secondary Sketchley School (Priory) • Outstanding Contribution to Sport - Leicestershire and Rutland Youth Sailing Association
Ted Hollick Call: 0116 287 5955 Mobile: 07962 373983 E-mail: ted.hollick@outlook.com Write: 7 Shaw Wood Close, Groby, LE6 0FY
Health care in Hinckley and Bosworth set for £8m investment Health and social care services in Leicestershire are set to benefit from £8m investment in community services in Hinckley and Bosworth. The funding is one of a number of schemes announced today by Matt Hancock, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. The investment in Hinckley supports plans for the transition to a much more patient – centred approach to care which focuses on providing modern, fit for purpose facilities to support more services in the local community, and closer to home. Interim Accountable Officer for West Leicestershire CCG, Caroline Trevithick said: “This is fantastic news for people in Hinckley and Bosworth and is the result of a lot of hard work, including the involvement of local people who have helped shape our plans for the area. “Some of the local buildings and facilities are not fit for purpose to meet the health care needs of people now and in the future. The investment means we can upgrade and improve facilities to ensure we can provide the highest standards of care quite rightly expected by people. “The confirmation of capital funding means that, subject to NHSE approval, we will be able to consult with local people on our plans. We will be looking to do this as early as possible in new year. Our plans focus on using this investment to make better use of all available existing space in Hinckley Health Centre (Hill Street) and at Hinckley and Bosworth Community Hospital by: • Refurbishing Hinckley Health Centre, to accommodate X-Ray/ Ultrasound, physiotherapy and
increase the number of consulting rooms; • Creating a combined day case surgery and endoscopy unit with day-case beds, which will provide an increased range of day case procedures and cancer screening services for local patients; • Relocating the out-of-hours primary care service from Hinckley and Bosworth Community Hospital (Sunnyside) into the new developed Urgent Care Hub in Hinckley Health Centre providing out-of-hours urgent care for local patients. The investment in Hinckley and Bosworth is part of the broader Better Care Together strategic plan, for health services in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. A key part of this plan is to bring services closer to people by providing integrated health and care support within communities, like Hinckley and Bosworth, and reducing the need to travel to hospital or for inpatient care.”
I am Here To Help You Should you have any comments or problems you would like us to mention in our articles please get in touch. Wishing you and your family a Very Happy New Year. Kind regards,
Cllr Martin Cartwright
What is happening to our pets? IT IS getting harder to own a pet. In 2012 two-thirds of homes had pets. Now it is down to just over half. In fact, families are now ten times more likely to own a virtual assistant like Amazon’s Alexa than even a hamster. It is not our fault. We still love animals, but can we still provide them with a home? Growing numbers of us are unable to buy our own homes, which means that many of us are in rental accommodation, and not that many landlords welcome pets. Sadly, many animal sanctuaries are full of dogs and cats who were unable to move on with their owners in their next rental property. There is a similar problem in later life. So many residential homes ban residents from bringing their much-loved pets - which only increases their loneliness in old age. And yet those of us fortunate enough to have pets still love them and mourn their loss.
They say you shouldn’t eat right before bed so now I just wait until I’m in bed.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Elizabeth Woodville News January 2019 CHRISTMAS really came to life in the last few weeks of term as our pupils have displayed their talents in 3 amazing festive performances. Each story has retold the traditional nativity in fun and creative ways, which have delighted our watching audiences!
Building & Maintenance - Private & Commercial
It was wonderful to see our Foundation Class perform so confidently in the ‘Noisy Nativity’ after only their first term at school. Year 1 and 2 excelled in a play called ‘The Inn-spectors’ with incredible singing and dancing. Finally, it was the turn of Year 3 and 4 who demonstrated their star-quality when performing their show ‘Tinsel and Tea Towels!’
GETTING READY FOR WINTER Make sure your home is protected from the elements this winter We are also very proud of all of our musicians for their superb performances at the Christmas Concerts. It has been incredible to see so many children learning an instrument at school; in fact, we needed 3 separate concerts to showcase all the musical talent! A particular highlight, was hearing our accomplished orchestra opening and closing the show, as well as our new drumming students in action. Well done to all our musicians for their dedication and commitment which has led to such fantastic progress.
Year 3 and 4 Journey to Bethlehem Our lower junior pupils had a great time at the United Reformed Church during their ‘Journey to Bethlehem’. We met many of the characters of the Christmas story along our time-travelling journey. We would like to say a very big thank you to all who made this fantastic event possible.
The Leicester Mercury Education Awards 2018 We were honoured to attend the Leicester Mercury Education Awards 2018 as a shortlisted finalist for the second successive year. It was wonderful to be recognised as one of 3 finalist schools in the category of Community Champion. The Leicester Mercury Awards judges were impressed with our commitment to emotional health and wellbeing across our whole school community, as described in the summary below. “Children’s mental health is at the forefront of everything that Elizabeth Woodville Primary School does. Through the leadership of PSHE Leader Shelley Smith, highly effective pastoral programmes have been implemented as well as emotional learning programmes. The school has also developed a wider curriculum that is devoted to ensuring all children (and staff) adopt a positive mind set and healthy lifestyles, which makes coming to school at Elizabeth Woodville such a fun and rewarding experience. The school takes part in Mental Health Awareness Day every year, continuously promoting the importance of looking after our mental health as well as our physical health.” (Leicester Mercury Awards 2018) We are extremely proud of this recognition, well done to all pupils, staff, parents and governors for everything you do to make our school such a supportive and positive community.
Best wishes for 2019 I hope all Groby Spotlight readers had an enjoyable Christmas and on behalf of everyone at Elizabeth Woodville, we wish you all a healthy and happy 2019!
M: 07734405374 E: contact@countycontractorsleics.co.uk W: www.countycontractorsleics.co.uk @CountyCon County Contractors, Groby, Leicester
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My son just threatened not to talk to me for the rest of the day. I’m 3% offended and 97% hoping he follows through.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Michelle and Hazel are worth their weight in gold, says TV host Rylan AS SLIMMING WORLD enters its 50th year, two Consultants from Groby are celebrating half a century of success for the organisation by meeting TV personality and presenter Rylan Clark-Neal.
Greggs launches ‘vegan friendly’ sausage roll
Rylan, who shot to fame after appearing on hit show The X-Factor, co-hosted the annual Slimming World Awards with the organisation’s founder GREGGS has launched a and chair Margaret Miles-Bramwell “vegan friendly” version of OBE. Margaret opened her first Slimming World group in 1969 and over an old customer favourite – the last 50 years the business has grown the sausage roll. to become the UK’s leading group-based The bakery chain, which sells 1.5 weight-management organisation, today million traditional sausage rolls supporting nearly one million slimmers. per week, said the UK’s 3.5 million Michelle Johnson, who runs a vegans will be able to enjoy a “next Slimming World group at Glenfield generation” version of its bestSports Ground, Leicester every Monday selling item. and Wednesday, was delighted to The vegan version has some get a chance to cuddle up to Rylan “classic features” of the traditional and said meeting the TV host was a sausage roll, according to Greggs, wonderful way to round off a great year including 96 layers of puff pastry at Slimming World, as well as a brilliant – but instead of meat the filling is way to lead into 2019 — Slimming made with Quorn. World’s Golden Year: “I couldn’t be Strong demand prouder of the members of my groups. Greggs said the launch follows Not only have they lost fantastic “strong consumer demand”, amounts of weight throughout 2018 – including a petition by Peta last year with many of them hitting their target signed by more than 20,000 people. weights – they’ve also improved their Roger Whiteside, chief executive health, boosted their confidence and at Greggs, said: “Like many food are heading into 2019 with new healthy retailers we have seen increasing habits that will stay with them for life. demand for vegetarian and vegan “Watching people change before my products. eyes and start being able to do things “We have been trying to develop that they didn’t think possible before losing weight absolutely amazes me. Every week I feel privileged to play even Slimming World Consultants Michelle Johnson and Hazel a vegan version of our famous a small part in supporting people sausage roll for some time now. towards these achievements and to Adcock meet singer and presenter Rylan Clark-Neal. celebrate with them, so I felt especially “It has not been easy but our taste honoured to represent our groups at the Slimming World Awards. Rylan was blown away by the difference panel customers all love this one, so Slimming World makes to people’s lives too.” we have decided to launch it as our contribution to Veganuary.” Rylan, who is now a seasoned presenter having appeared on This Morning and Channel 5’s Big Brother’s Little Brother, said he was thrilled to meet Michelle and Hazel at the event, which was held at Birmingham’s International Veganuary encourages people Convention Centre. He said: “I met so many people who had lost incredible amounts of weight and made a huge to try vegan food for January and difference to their lives. While the stories I heard were obviously very personal, the one thing they all had in across the year. common was how much support they received from their ‘Slimming World family’ and how so many of them were Recent research from Waitrose achieving their dreams. Every one of them spoke passionately about how they couldn’t have made those changes found that a third (33.5%) of people to eat more healthily and become more active without the support of their Consultant and group every week, so now have meat-free or meatpeople like Michelle and Hazel are clearly worth their weight in gold.” reduced diets. Hazel Adcock, who runs a group at Brookvale High School, Leicester and Groby Community Centre, Groby every Thursday, continues: “2018 has been a brilliant year for Slimming World. We’ve launched our Slim for Life plan to give even more support to our target members, and won awards for both our magazine and food range. We’re hoping our Golden Year will be even more successful and we have a string of exciting activities planned to celebrate our 50th birthday in style, including the launch of brand-new websites and apps, golden events and special publications. Painter Decorator and Property Maintenance “So, this New Year I truly believe that joining a local Slimming World group is the best way for people to lose weight, learn new habits and make NO JOB TOO SMALL long-term healthy changes. Thanks to our eating plan they’ll see big results From changing a light bulb to complete house re-decoration. on the scales without ever having to feel hungry or deprived, and at our For all the jobs you need to do but simply don’t have time. Groby groups they’ll discover a whole world of support and advice that’s sure to help them achieve their targets – and have a lot of fun along the way For a free quotation please call Ian on: too! I’d love for anyone who wants to make a change to join us, I promise 01530 245461 or 07885 541428 they won’t look back!” 3 The Nook, Markfield, Leicestershire To make your weight-loss dreams come true and go for gold with Slimming World in its Golden Year call Michelle on 07788 745540 Web site: www.idchomemaintenance.co.uk or Hazel on 07817 303018 or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk to Full Tradesman Liability Insurance held find your nearest group.
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“If we don’t know a word for something, why can’t we just make one up?” he remarked confusatorily.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Book Spot
BirdBox By Josh Malerman SOMETHING is out there, something terrifying that must not be seen. One glimpse of it, and a person is driven to deadly violence. No one knows what it is or where it came from. Five years after it began, a handful of scattered survivors remains, including Malorie and her two young children. Living in an abandoned house near the river, she has dreamed of fleeing to a place where they might be safe. Now that the boy and girl are four, it’s time to go, but the journey ahead will be terrifying: twenty miles downriver in a rowboat--blindfolded--with nothing to rely on but her wits and the children’s trained ears. One wrong choice and they will die. Something is following them all the while, but is it man, animal, or monster? The Perfect Girlfriend By Karen Hamilton JULIETTE loves Nate. She will follow him anywhere. She’s even become a flight attendant for his airline, so she can keep a closer eye on him. They are meant to be. The fact that Nate broke up with her six months ago means nothing. Because Juliette has a plan to win him back. She is the perfect girlfriend. And she’ll make sure no one stops her from getting exactly what she wants. True love hurts, but Juliette knows it’s worth all the pain... Your Closest Friend By Karen Perry CARA shouldn’t have survived the attack. But at the last moment, a stranger snatched her to safety. In the hours that followed, she told her Good Samaritan secrets she’d never told a soul. Not even her husband. Especially not her husband. In the aftermath, Cara is home, healed and safe. Which is when the anonymous threats begin. Someone knows things about her that they shouldn’t. Cara’s Good Samaritan offers to help - to save her all over again. That night, Cara made a friend for life. But what if she isn’t a friend at all?
on the
BEACH
including songs from
and other seaside hits
Rehearsals at Groby Club from 25th February Monday afternoon choir: 1.15pm - 3pm (Childcare facilities, lifts available) Monday evening choir: 8pm - 9.30pm Monday after-school children’s choir: 3.40pm - 4.40pm
Performances:
Saturday 29th June at 7.00pm & Sunday 30th June at 3.00pm www.grobysings.org for more information
Registered Charity no. 1180490
The Woman in the Window by A.J.Finn WHAT did she see? It’s been ten months since Anna Fox last left her home. Ten months during which she has haunted the rooms of her old New York house, lost in her memories, too terrified to step outside. Anna’s lifeline to the real world is her window, where she sits, watching her neighbours. When the Russells move in, Anna is instantly drawn to them. A picture-perfect family, they are an echo of the life that was once hers. But one evening, a scream rips across the silence, and Anna witnesses something horrifying. Now she must uncover the truth about what really happened. But if she does, will anyone believe her? And can she even trust herself?
25
years of care
Celebrity Annual Lunch
Anyone For TENNIS (and much more)? IT HAS BEEN a busy year for Gynsill Tennis Club. There is social tennis at the club 3 times a week which is really enjoyable. Also the men, ladies and juniors have all been playing in matches in the local leagues. As well as playing tennis the club members have been on a walking weekend, had a boules tournament and bbq in the tennis club car park, a quiz night and enjoyed a pie night at Beaumanor Hall. The club had a stall at the Anstey Gala (you may have seen us there). Everybody that came to our stall had fun trying to hit tennis balls through different holes with prizes for the best scores. Gynsill Tennis Club is a friendly and welcoming club. If you are thinking about starting to play tennis, haven’t played for a while or are a regular player why not come down and see us. The club is on the corner of Gynsill Close and Gorse Hill. Saturday afternoon is club afternoon. You can also visit the club website www.gynsilltennis.club or contact our Head Coach, Adam Charlton, at charltontennis@yahoo.co.uk
with guest speaker
Alan Dedicoat Wednesday 20 March 2019 Welford Road Stadium Home of Leicester Tigers at 11am
Book today 01509 638 045 fundraising@rainbows.co.uk
Tickets £42pp including three course meal and welcome drink on arrival Hosted by BBC Radio Leicester Presenter Dave Andrews
rainbows.co.uk/lunch2019
My wife says I can join your gang, but I have to be home by 9.
Registered Charity Number: 1014051
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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IF YOU can find 12 GOVERNMENT CABINET MINISTERS in this issue’s Wordsearch puzzle, you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty Solutions Districts prize of: A Main Course forfor Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine atFree The FieldHead Hotel. Resources To go into the draw,What all youWe haveOffer to do is findWho - and We markAre a line through -Teachers the names of 12 Parents CABINET MINISTERS. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: YES MINISTER, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 9th February 2019. Remember to include your E D H P G E Y name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the prize. Good luck! G I E B R Q A
B N I N L R C W O S H S U C N
N D S M V T N I F E A Q P O T
U H P N E G K E M N M N F K L
I A F U M T J I A O M T W W Z
E G C L A R K Z I R O K H L G
S M A L U N I K L A N M I D R
M A S E R E H T K B D R S J T
Here are the 12 CABINET MINISTERS you have to find:
THERESA MAY • PHILIP HAMMOND • SAJID JAVID JEREMY HUNT • GREG CLARK • LIAM FOX AMBER RUDD • MICHAEL GOVE • JAMES BROKENSHIRE CHRIS GRAYLING • PENNY MORDAUNT • BARONESS EVANS Name: ................................................................................................. Address: ................................................................................................ .................................................................Postcode: .............................
Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch Competition was:
Terry Luxton of Ratby Road, Groby
Congratulations! Your prize voucher will be sent to you soon.
Live Music in Thornton….
AMBERRUDD BARONESSEVANS CHRISGRAYLING GREGCLARK JAMESBROKENSHIRE JEREMYHUNT LIAMFOX MICHAELGOVE PENNYMORDAUNT PHILIPHAMMOND SAJIDJAVID THERESAMAY
Brooks Williams
Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com
Ranked in the World's Top 100 Acoustic Guitarists, he’s a mean finger-picker and a stunning slide guitarist. Plus, “he has a beautiful voice, that you just melt into” says Americana UK
Brooks Williams in Thornton 8.00pm Saturday 9th March 2019 All tickets £15.00 each in advance Thornton Community Centre, 175 Main Street, Thornton, Leicestershire. LE67 1AH Info or Tickets:- Brooks-in-Thornton@btconnect.com Ernie Broadhurst - 07973 304625 Mary Pratt - 07791 831507 www.brookswilliams.com
Alexander the Great is what happens when men get to name themselves.
S
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JANUARY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Spotlight Small Ads • Richmond Rise RECLINER ARMCHAIR. Cream colour, only a few weeks old, like new, sale due to bereavement. Cost £319. Price: £159.00. Tel: 0116 287 9549 (Groby). • PINE BOOKCASE, 36”H by 26”W by 12”D, 3 adjustable shelves, bun feet. Price: £10.00. • CONSOLE TABLE, 28”H by 43”W by 21”D, upcycled, slightly distressed, colour Winter Grey. Solid wood, turned and reeded legs, two drawers, nice handles, has some age to it. Price: £50.00. • Small handmade painted STOOL, decorated with handpainted corn flowers, 11”H by 15”W by 9”D, colour Winter Grey. Price: £1.00. Tel: 01530 243043 (Markfield). • SWIMMING POOL, 12ft diameter, 3ft 4” deep, tubular metal frame, in and out steps, electric circulating pump. Unpacked but unused. Price: £100.00 o.n.o. • Electric 12v OUTBOARD - Minn Kota Turbo 5-speed. Little used. Price: £60.00 o.n.o. • GARDEN SHED - 10 ft by 6ft. Very good condition. Buyer to dismantle. Price: £100.00 o.n.o. Tel: 01530 245328 (Stanton-underBardon). • MOBILITY SCOOTER. Takes apart for transporting. Price: FREE • WonderCore Smart (EXERCISE MACHINE). Hardly used. Price: £45.00 Tel: 01530 481754 (Markfield Court)
• Hedgehog GUTTER BRUSHES. Unused. 100mm diameter. 8 metre length. Price: £20.00 Tel: 0116 287 6724 (Groby). • Genuine UGG BOOTS made by UGG Australia, Euro size 42. UK M8/ L9 - Sheepskin and suede - Colour Sand - 25.5 cm high. Very good condition. Price: £25.00 Tel: 01530 242318 (Markfield). • 3 PRINTERS: 1 Scanjet: Epsom XP-700 W Fi Epsom XP 432 W Fi, HP Deskjet 1050, HP Scanjet 4370. All with original boxes. • Samsung - SQ 1000 ELECTRIC TYPEWRITER Price: ALL FREE. For more details tel: 07974 594134 (Groby)
IF YOU HAVE any household items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Spotlight, please SEND DETAILS by post or email sorry, we can’t take them over the phone. Maximum EIGHT items please. Our postal address is Spotlight Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk PLEASE ENSURE that you put ‘Small Ads’ in the subject line, and INCLUDE YOUR FULL POSTAL ADDRESS (not for publication).
Every Saturday morning 10.00am—12.30pm CATCH meets for play, craft, story & chat for pre-school children with a parent or carer 9.30-11.30am every Friday at Groby URC Chapel Hill
Fair Cuppa for FairTrade refreshments in fairly traded mugs. Every Thursday 10.3012am at the Village Hall
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Newtown Linford Gardening Club
LAST YEAR was a record-breaking year for us with a series of excellent talks by prestigious speakers, two very successful visits and social evenings which attracted around 100 people on each occasion. Our membership has increased to 140 and our visiting speakers have been thrilled to be welcomed by such a large, lively and appreciative audience. Our programme for 2019 promises to be equally attractive with a wide variety of topics offered by our visiting speakers. We have again two celebrity evenings when household names in the horticultural world come to our village. This year our celebrities are Matthew Biggs from Gardeners’ Question Time and Chris Beardshaw, the famous garden designer with an enviable collection of Chelsea gold medals. As usual, we invite members of other gardening clubs and interested people to join us on these occasions and tickets at £12 can be obtained from the secretary. In addition we have some excellent evenings planned. We are particularly pleased to welcome Alan Power from Stourhead whose garden has regularly featured on Gardeners’ World. Our two visits will be equally popular when we go to the famous David Austin Roses Nursery and to the Leicester Botanic Gardens.
~ PROGRAMME 2019 ~ Jan 22nd Birds in our Garden - Chris Edwards Feb 26th Open Evening with MATTHEW BIGGS Mar 26th Thrive –Amanda Fields Social and Therapeutic Horticulture Apr 23rd The Garden at Stourhead - Alan Power May 28th Plants for your Garden - Timothy Walker June 18th Visit to David Austin Roses July 23rd Summer Garden Party Aug 27th Evening at Leicester Botanical Gardens Sept 24th National Trust Gardens - Julie Allard Oct 22nd Open Evening with CHRIS BEARDSHAW Dec 10th Christmas Party Anyone interested in our activities can contact the secretary (tel. 01530 242452) or e-mail us at 32couling@gmail.com, or else come along to one of our meetings as a visitor (£3). If you would like a copy of our programme for the coming year, we will be pleased to send one to you.
Anne and David Couling
Weekly in term time for children for 6’s to 14’s on Mon evenings, at 6.00pm or 7.45pm. We meet at the United Reformed Church on Chapel Hill. Along with our work in schools, these are run by the two churches in Groby under the group name EXTEND.
For further information please see websites and church magazines St. Philip and St. James Rector – Rev Ed Bampton 01162396520 www.grobychurch.org.uk United Reformed Church Phil Holmes (Church Secretary) 0116 225 3335 www.grobyurc.com Youth, Children's & Families Colin Udall 07776 157511 colin.udall@ntlworld.com
I’m at my most amazing when no-one is paying attention.
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