October 2017 groby spotlight online by Michael Wilkinson

Anti-social behaviour

Remembrance Groby Meadow to be temporarily Service closed to the public SUNDAY 1st October saw the penultimate work party at Groby CIC Meadow. Thanks to volunteers, our wild flower display looks very impressive, hopefully it will self seed and re-emerge next year even more abundant. It is with regret that we have been forced to close the meadow to the public. Anti-social behaviour has blighted the Groby Pool carpark and this has spilled over into our meadow with numerous incidents that are totally unacceptable to the directors of the meadow. Despite repeated attempts to urge HBBC and the police to act,(many thanks to Ozzy O’Shea) it has finally become clear that it is unsafe to allow public access to the meadow whilst these problems persist. This, coupled with vandalism to the trees, benches and entrance gates has reinforced our decision to close the meadow for a period of time. During the closure we will attempt to get Severn Trent Water to do urgent work to the drainage system, allowing us to re-open the meadow in due course when all the problems associated with the proximity of Groby Pool car park have been resolved. November will see our last work party, we urge all shareholders and villagers to get involved with the meadow, as without financial and actual work hours the meadow will become unmanageable in the long term. Anyone wishing to contribute financially or in terms of physical effort please contact the parish council for details on how to get involved.

GROBY REMEMBRANCE Service will take place on Sunday 12th November 2017 at the Village War Memorial on the Ex-servicemens club car park at 10-50am. Anybody who wishes to lay a wreath please come by 10-45 so we know how many we have. This year we will have somebody new doing the service as the Rev Louise Cork has left. If wet it will be held in the concert room at the club. After the service tea/coffee, biscuits will be available in the concert room.

Paul Brudenell

BEREAVEMENT GROUP SERVICE: 22nd October The bereavement group from Groby and Ratby churches would like to invite any family and all friends who have gone through a bereavement this last year to a special service at St Phillip and St James Ratby on 22nd October at 3.00pm.

Christmas Tree Festival in Groby DO YOU have an artificial Christmas Tree? Can you get it out of the loft before 1st December? Do you have the imagination to decorate it to a theme? Come and Join in !

St Philip and St James Church’s Christmas Tree Festival will take place from 2nd - 9th December with the theme “Christmas is Coming”. Community Groups, Schools, Playgroups and Families and individuals are invited to join in this event by bringing along a tree decorated to this theme to be displayed in church for the enjoyment of the whole village. If you would like to take part please ring 0116 231 2070 or email christinemdavies88@gmail.com for more information.

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 18th November - Advert/Articles needed by 4th November

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Borrow Box

Groby Library News Libraries Week

DO YOU own a tablet or smartphone? Can’t get to the library? INTERESTED in reading eBooks or listening to eAudiobooks? As a member of Groby Library you can reserve, download and read eBooks and eAudiobooks FREE using your library card number and PIN If you’re not already a member of the library come down and join.

Getting Started with Borrowbox: •

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The easiest way to access free eBooks and eAudiobooks is through the BorrowBox app. iPhone and iPad users should download the app from the App Store, Android users should download the app from Google Play Store. (It can be used on the Kindle Fire but not Kindle eReaders) Once you have installed the BorrowBox app on your device you will need to register using the following steps: Go to the “Please select your library” option and start typing Leicestershire, you will need to select: Leicestershire Libraries and log in with your library card number and PIN When you submit all of this information you will be asked to “Agree” to the terms and conditions. Once you have clicked on “Agree” you will be taken through to the app where you can browse, borrow, download and reserve eBooks and eAudiobooks. You will be asked for your email address - you will not receive Spam but you will receive notifications such as when your eBook is about to expire. You can also access Borrowbox on a computer through the Leicestershire County Council website Further information is available in the library It’s a great addition to what your library offers so give it a go!

LIBRARIES week is an opportunity to celebrate all the things that go on in your local library. We will have a new display showcasing what is available, what happens in your library now and our future plans. So for our regular visitors or if you’re not already a member please pop in and see what’s on offer.

Summer Reading Challenge WE REPORTED in last month’s Spotlight that over 100 children took part in this year’s Animal Agents Summer Reading Challenge.

In fact there were 121 participants! 65 girls and 56 boys. Well done to everyone who took part. Many congratulations to Elizabeth Woodville School who won the Reading Challenge cup for the sixth year running, an amazing achievement.

Beacon Beer

DO YOU like a pint of Beacon at the Stamford Arms? If so you are helping raise money for the library. 10p from each pint sold will be given to Groby library. So why not have a drink for us!

Cook’s Farm SHOP MARKFIELD LANE, NEWTOWN LINFORD, LEICS, LE6 0AB - 01530 242214 –

**Visit our Website at www.cooksfarmshop.co.uk**

Deliveries to Local Villages of Large Bags of Food for Wild Birds

Excellent Quality to attract all varieties of birds to your Garden Bradgate Wild Bird Mix - 20kg - £12.95 Superior Wild Bird Mix - 20kg - £19.95 High Energy No-Gro – 12.75kg – £22.95 Robin & Songbird with Insects – 12.75kg – £21.75 Nyger Seed – 12.75kg – 20.95 Peanuts – 20kg - £32.95 Peanuts – 25kg - £38.50 ½ Bag – 12.5kg - £23.00 Sunflower Hearts – 18kg - £24.95 (or 2 bags for £44.00) Black Sunflower – 12.75kg - £13.95 *****All bird food prices less £1 per bag if collected*****

Excellent Quality Seasoned & Kiln Dried LOGS (in nets for ease of handling)

10 Nets delivered - £40 20 Nets Delivered - £66

OPEN: Mon – Fri 9am – 5.30pm Sat 9am – 5pm & Sun 10am – 1pm

Collected Prices:

Single net - £3.60 10 nets - £3.30 each 20 nets - £3.00 each

Drive-Thru McDonalds was more expensive than I thought. Once you’ve hired the car ...

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Letter

Housebuilding can lead to loss of wildlife habitats I SEE THAT developers are seeking to build 30 dwellings on Leicester Road in Groby, which will mean the felling of trees and the loss of wildlife, birds, insects and possibly hedgehogs an endangered species.

Save The Date… •

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This years Chatsworth trip is on Monday 11th December. Price TBC at going to print, but all details and bookings will be available from the library from 16th October. We will be running a family Christmas themed activity on Sunday 3rd December, all the details will be in the November Spotlight. There will be Christmas Crafts for children held at the library on Saturday 9th to coincide with The Rotary Clubs Christmas event being held at the Village Hall. December is going to be lots of fun! Oh no it isn’t, oh yes it is!

I am surprised that there has not been an outcry. Still money talks and money is made on building extra houses. This year I have lost a lot of my birds which I attribute to tree felling. I have a family of hedgehogs who I saw going towards the bottom of my road towards Leicester Road as I expect them to disappear with house building. Whilst building goes on with trees felled it is helping to make it easier for climate change and we will see further extreme weather in the future. Sadly Groby will not be a village as with all the traffic that there is now more will follow. Yours sincerely

D A Cookson

Why do people start every answer with the word ‘So..’? HAVE YOU noticed the current trend for interviewees on radio and television to start every answer with the word ‘so’, whether it makes sense or not? Is this a new form of ‘management-speak’? When did it begin? Are you in favour of it? If you can enlighten Spotlight readers, drop us a line ...

I bought a cross-trainer to keep fit. I suppose that it’s not enough to just buy it.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

All the Latest Martinshaw School News From Owen Lawrence

Year 4 Beaumanor Hall WITH A plaintive cry of ‘Rain, Rain Go Away’ on the first day of the new school year, no chance for pupils or staff to ease themselves nicely in. Instead, off to Beaumanor Hall. So with ‘wellies and anoraks’ ever ready, year 4 burst into action determined to get as much out of the next three days of adventure that they could. First day, rock climbing’ with lessons on safety and working as a team and an opportunity to discover the ‘inner you’. No slowing down: dinner then archery and hot chocolate and marshmallows around a camp fire, before an exhausted slump into bed. A 6.00 a.m. start, a real shock to the system for some of them and another full day of archery and an extremely soggy session of canoeing: whose idea was it to jump into the river, before pizza and chips for dinner ending at 9.00 p.m. with hot chocolate and biscuits? Last day: survival training in the woods before home bursting with stories of ‘Derring Do’. Back to ‘proper’ school on Monday.

Year 6 Condover Hall WHAT BETTER way to start life as the ‘Big’ kids of the school than by adventure training at Condover Hall. Starting off with a trip to RAF Cosford, before arriving at the Hall and immediately getting stuck into activities such as: Grid of Stones, Laser Maize and Arial Track. After dinner a giant Cluedo Game and the culprit was ... Chris Carrot of course! Next morning, after not a peep all night, with Mrs Thurlow last man standing. Wonder why ? Starting on the high ropes, with years six’s very own Tarzan, ‘Tree Rat Matt’ and Harrison excelling, at these high level ‘High Jinks’. Another full day taken up with rafting and ‘body zorbing’, your guess is as good as mine, just to say it sounds dangerous to me!!! The whole trip continued at this break neck pace, with not one late night, which says everything about the energy being expended during all of the various activities. Then Friday finally arrives, back to sanity and school on Monday. Boo Hoo!

Wow! This is cold!

Heave Ho, Me Hearties!

Year 5 Guitar Lessons FOR ALL OUR budding ‘Rolling Stones’, sorry I don’t know the name of any modern groups. Anyway, every Thursday year 5 will be taught guitar skills by expert guitarist Mr Thurlow covering music from Motown to present day. With all the mixtures of cultures and influences.

KS 2 and the Leicestershire Constabulary

Fencing ... Touché!

OVER TWO days in September, KS 2 played host to two members of the Leicestershire Constabulary. Not for any sort of investigation, but to pass on their experiences and in doing so to enlighten the students regarding various safety issues. This was all done through a number of very informative workshops. The children not only came away from these workshops better informed, but enjoyed the way that, what was after all, a very serious subject was delivered to them.

You’re Nicked My Son!

lig

Building Landscapes

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Tree Surgery

Driveways / Block Paving Patios & Decking Garden Walls / Stone Walls Ponds / Water Features Design Service Available

Trees Removed,

Building

Pollarded, Reduced & Shaped Hedgerows Cut, Laid or Removed Fencing (all types) Logs for sale

Extensions - Porches - Repointing

Tel: 01604 563021 (Mobile) Harvey or Min: 07966 505688 www.hm-landscapes.com I went bobsleighing the other day. Killed 250 bobs.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Redgate Sanctuary Horses and Ponies being prepared for re-homing Can you help us to find them a new and fulfilling life? THE HORSES and ponies at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary, Markfield are – as ever - very well cared for by our wonderful volunteer horse team – Pete and Trish (from Markfield Equestrian Centre), and by staff member Donna, but we all feel they would blossom in a ‘proper’ home with new families and new challenges. Any potential new owners would, of course, need to consider the practicalities of adoption very seriously, also have sufficient land, time and resources, and a knowledge of, and empathy with, horses. The horses and ponies we would love to see re-homed and settled for a new life are: William (16.2HH), Eddie (14.2), Flossie (13.2), Lottie (13.1). They would essentially be ‘projects’ for their new owners, (with some work attached), as they have been kept as ‘pets’ at the sanctuary without having been ridden recently, and are probably a little overweight. So, first of all their fitness would have to be gradually built back up, and also our ‘horse Trustee’ Linda, or staff member Donna, would need to chat with you about any health/dietary issues they may have. Eddie, fostered out to a local horse trainer since July, has already started his new exercise regime and is coming on very well – he is a real gentleman. They would make wonderful companion horses and would probably be capable of light hacking once they are fit again. But they have been not been saddled in recent years – so work and patience would be involved. But all four are regularly handled and brought in every day for grooming. If you would like to visit these lovely creatures and chat to us about maybe adopting one from Redgate, to make part of your life, please come along to Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary (registered charity number 1036506). Postcode LE67 9PW, located at 233, Shaw Lane, Markfield at the side of the A511. We are also less than a mile away from Stanton under Bardon.

The Sanctuary is open to the public every day from 11am – 3pm and the horse team are on site most days until 2pm. Contact: Sanctuary Office 01530 243 925 (between 11am and 3pm), the Secretary 01530 230 455 (after 5pm) or email Redgate@mail.org

Moaning about other people not working really makes the day fly by.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

GROBY VILLAGE SOCIETY

Coffee Morning

Saturday 18th November 10am – 12noon Markfield Methodist Church Website – www.markfieldmethodistchurch.org or contact Ann or Ian Lay – 01530 242166

Forthcoming Events Thursday October 26 Leicestershire Ladies David Bell Thursday November 23 From the Fury of the Norsemen Deliver Us Sandy Leong

Thursday December 28 REMAP Martin Grant Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm. Except for October which will be at Groby Library Starting at 7.30pm. For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842 email: groby.villagesociety@ tiscali.co.uk Non Members are Welcome

A Bygone Christmas

Antibiotic Research UK is the world’s first charity to tackle the problem of antibiotic resistant infection. We aim to develop one new antibiotic therapy by 2020 with further antibiotics being introduced over the next decade. To reach our goals we need to raise £30 million over the next 5 – 7 years. The human body contains trillions of bacteria. These live in our gut, on our skin and in our nose and mouth. Many of these bacteria are useful such as in the digestion of food. Sometimes though these bacteria can enter our blood stream and grow and divide unchecked – we call this process an infection. Here are a few medical conditions that depend on antibiotics for their treatment; bowel cancer, breast cancer surgery, leukaemia and lymphoma treatment, caesarean sections, organ transplants, intensive care treatment after a major accident, hip and knee replacements. When we get a bacterial infection, most times the body can fight it off. Sometimes though the infection worsens and this is when we are given antibiotics. Around 20% of patients do not respond to the first antibiotic they are given. They are therefore given another antibiotic which usually is effective. In some cases, none of the antibiotics given are effective; the bacteria are resistant to all known antibiotic treatments and the patient can die. The incidence of antibiotic resistance is rising year on year. The problem is being made worse as very few new antibiotics have been developed over the past 30 years. Please support Antibiotic Research UK by joining us for coffee on the 18th November

Come along to our Bygone Christmas event to raise funds for this year’s local charities The Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation and the Joe Humphries memorial trust

Saturday 9 December 17 1pm - 6pm GROBY VILLAGE HALL

Craft stalls, Bygone Games, Santa’s Grotto, Drinks, Mince pies and lots more…... Small entrance charge for adults includes mince pie and drink £7.50 per child - includes drink and present from Santa

Tickets available from Jane 07876561954

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

LFE FILM EVENING LFE Film Evenings will be showing on Thursday 2 November “Their Finest”. Category: Comedy, drama, romance UK 2016, (PG), 2hrs. The year is 1940, London. With the nation bowed down by war, the British ministry turns to propaganda films to boost morale at home. Realising their films could use “a woman’s touch”, the ministry hires Catrin Cole as a scriptwriter in charge of writing the female dialogue. Although her artist husband looks down on her job, Catrin’s natural flair quickly gets her noticed by cynical, witty lead scriptwriter Buckley. Catrin and Buckley set out to make an epic feature film based on the Dunkirk rescue starring the gloriously vain, former matinee idol Ambrose Hilliard. As bombs are dropping all around them, Catrin, Buckley and their colourful cast and crew work furiously to make a film that will warm the hearts of the nation. Cast: Toby Jones, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Sarah Lancashire, Daniel Mays, Michael Gambon, Bill Nighy Venue: the Parish Hall, Kings Drive, LFE. Cost: £5. On arrival complimentary hot drink and biscuits are provided. You also get a free raffle ticket for a double ticket prize to be used for a future showing. Doors open at 7.00pm; show starts at 7.30pm.

Coalville Furniture Superstore

DIVAN AND STORAGE BEDS

BED FRAMES

‘Elsie May Dearest’ ‘Elsie May Dearest’ is a true love story, family history and a local social history detailing the lives of three ordinary yet extraordinary Leicestershire people. It gives a snapshot in time from 1918 to 1945 and an insight into their physical and emotional lives during a difficult period in history. The book consists of series of letters written to Elsie by her two husbands Harold and Cyril, a journal written by Elsie about life at her Guest-house opposite to Bradgate Park in Newtown Linford, Leicestershire. She gives a very moving account of how she came to turn her home into a guesthouse after being widowed at a young age in 1938. Elsie was different; she became strong and independent in the face of adversity after a difficult start in life. She had a love of astrology and of sleeping outside and a tenacious appetite for fighting for what she believed was right. She was an extraordinary woman of her time who achieved much. Harold’s sense of humour in everyday situations becomes evident at times leaving the reader with the feeling of really knowing him as a person. He describes in detail a day out at the ‘Schneider Trophy’ event in 1929 leaving the reader with his sense of excitement as he recounts the race. There are references to the Theosophist Society ,popular in the 1920’s and 30’s, his first talkie movie, meals taken at ‘the Café’ and aspects of his everyday life.His later letters are from a convalescent home in Southport near Liverpool, mentioning the daily sea salt baths he has to take while there, the food, and a film star Carl Brisson who visits the hospital. After Harold’s early death aged 42, death Cyril, Elsie’s second husband takes up similar themes, and many of his letters are written from Markfield Sanatorium in Leicestershire, where he is being treated for TB, giving an insight into life as a patient at the ‘San’. Anyone with Leicester connections, a love of Bradgate, Newtown Linford, Leicester or Southport, or anyone who just likes to read about the past in a local history context will find the book of interest. Elsie’s published pamphlet about Lady Jane Grey ‘The Nine Day Queen’ who lived for a time at Bradgate Park is included in the appendix. Extracts from Elsie’s article for the ‘Socialist Leader’ written in 1948 about working conditions of women in the pre World War One’ period are included . Harold’s brother George was killed in action in the Menin Road Ridge battle at Passchendaele a 100 years ago on Sept 20th 1917. He started life in Leicester, lived in Atherstone and was sent to the Industrial school in Desford at 9 years old in 1905 for ‘being out of control’. An ‘Unknown Soldier’, forgotten no more and immortalised in the book. Elsie’s son, now 87 returned to visit the guesthouse in 2016 through the kindness and hospitality of the present owners. There he rekindled some of his memories and experiences during an incredibly amazing and moving afternoon! Anyone interested in a copy of the book or more details can contact Sally at sal.cherith@ntlworld.com or 07806 786616. A limited number of books will be printed and available soon.

BEDROOM FURNITURE BY RAUCH

B FIR RAN SH ST D NO OW FL NEW W RO OO OP OM R EN

Come and see our exciting new displays of beds and bedroom furniture

Coalville Furniture Superstore, 79 - 81 Belvoir Road, Coalville LE67 3PH (former Co-op department store) Tel: 01530 833311 Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5pm, Sunday closed. Car park at rear.

My grandad said he always used to leave his back door open in the old days, which was probably why his submarine sank.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

When Elizabeth married Philip – 70 years ago PRINCESS ELIZABETH (now Queen Elizabeth II) married Philip Duke of Edinburgh at Westminster Abbey almost 70 years ago, on 20th November 1947. They are about to reach their Platinum Anniversary. Elizabeth and Philip of Greece, who were third cousins, met in 1939, when the future Queen was only 13 and Philip 18. The match was promoted by Philip’s uncle, Earl Mountbatten, whose name Philip took before the marriage. Philip also converted from Greek Orthodoxy to Anglicanism and was given British citizenship. The wedding took place in front of 2,000 invited guests and was broadcast on radio to 200 million listeners worldwide. The wedding dress was designed by Norman Hartnell, Princess Elizabeth using ration coupons to obtain the material. More than 2,500 wedding presents and 10,000 telegrams of congratulations were received. Most of the honeymoon was spent at Birkhall on the Balmoral Estate. Sir William Neil McKie, an Australian organist who was the Master of the Choristers at the abbey, was the director of music, a role he filled again at Elizabeth’s coronation in 1953. He wrote a song, “We Wait For Thy Loving Kindness, O God”, especially for the wedding. Elizabeth and Philip had got engaged secretly in 1946, but their engagement was not announced officially until July 9th, 1947.

David Pickup, a solicitor, considers the sensible way to go about adding something extra to your home...

Getting the builders in

Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, 30 saying, “This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.” (Luke 14:28-30) This is a great verse for lawyers, as are many others in the Bible. I like the way the advice to ‘sit down’ comes first - that makes sense. If you are having some work done on your house, have a good think first. What other advice would you need? The first thing is talk to people. Perhaps your neighbours or people in church have had work done. Can they recommend someone? Get several estimates and take time and research to choose the right person. Often a local builder or tradesperson is best. A firm that advertises locally – perhaps in the parish magazine, might be the right one. Ask for a reference. If you want double glazing or whatever, ask for details of somewhere they have worked. Always choose the contractor, don’t let them choose you. There is nothing wrong in answering an advertisement in a leaflet but do not get talked or pressured into agreeing something. Get a proper quotation for the work. Not only cost, but how long the work will take. How much mess will they cause, and when can they start? Do you need advice, plans, building regs, corgi, and planning permission? Get it in writing. In these days of email, it should be easy to get the contractor to confirm it. Even if the builder says, “I should be able to start next week,” it is an indication only and not what we solicitors call a fundamental condition of the contract. You could change, by insisting on an agreement at the start that the work must be done by a date. Be reasonable. Sometimes work really does take longer than anticipated; jobs get held up, and things change which are out of everyone’s control. As always, this is a lighthearted guide and always get proper advice. Lastly, do you really need a tower (extension) anyway?

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A honeymoon is a holiday a man takes before starting work under a new boss.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

County Councillor’s Report from Ozzy Arriva Time Table Changes 4th November 2017 I HAVE been made aware that Arriva have submitted time table changes to the Traffic Commissioner. I have asked officers at County Hall to look into the changes to see how they affect residents. This is a commercial decision of Arriva all of these routes are commercial routes none of which are funded by the County Council. The following is a summary of any alterations. • 26- No Change • 27 – Minor timetable change. One weekday journey is changed by 7 minutes (07:32 journey brought back to 07:25 M-F from Leicester – Ratby) • 29/29A/29X - The 05.59 29A journey from Leicester M-F has been removed. A 06:22 journey has been introduced and now operates under 29X, however it does not serve Groby or Markfield. This means that the earliest time that Groby will be served by service 29 will be at 06:50 by the journey departing Leicester at 06:32. There has also been the addition of a second 06:32 journey (due to high demand) from Leicester M-F which terminates at Amazon. No journeys into Leicester have changed and there are no route changes proposed. The 23:15 journey from Amazon to Leicester has been retimed to 23:45 to accommodate shift times, and now operates under 29X. There are also some slight timetable changes by no more than 10 minutes.

There are no route changes so the impact on residents should not be significant. I will collect the new bus timetables when they are ready and make sure they are distributed to the Post Office, Parish Council offices and shops in the village.

Vehicle Tax Refund Scam THE FOLLOWING Email Scam is circulating - please do not be conned. Please do not click the link. It was brought to my attention recently. Outstanding vehicle tax refund Vehicle Licensing Agency <vehicle. roads@tax.co.uk> This message was sent with high importance.

Refund Alert We would like to notify you that you still have an outstanding vehicle tax refund of £378.12 from an overpayment. Requests for refunds are time limited please use the link below to complete your refund request. Get My Refund Please note: You’ll usually get the refund in 4 to 6 weeks, but it may take longer in some cases. You should wait 6 weeks before contacting us about the payment. If you see this messages marked as spam, Just select the message and click the Not Spam button that appears at the top and bottom of your current view. Unmarking a message will automatically move it to your inbox. Best regards, Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency

Two MSN Outlook Scams First Scam The following email scam is circulating to Hotmail Users please again do not be fooled a careful look at the email shows the sender is a private individual. Update request M S N Service Inc <farajalla06@ hotmail.com> noreply@update.net This message is from a trusted sender. FINAL 2017 UPDATE Our record indicates your account is not updated, which may lead to the permanent shut down of your account if you refuse to update your account within 24 hrs of receiving this notice. Take a second to update your account below and enjoy our new features Please follow the steps below for your upgrade process. 1. Upgrade my email 2. You can also add more security features Thanks The email security team

Second Scam Account Alert Account Security Team <verifyalert360verify@outlook. com> Reply | To: noreply@outlook.com

OutlookMail You’re advise to switch to the new version to avoid disconnection. Update Here Please do not reply to this e-mail. Mail sent to this address cannot be answered. For assistance, log in to your email! website and choose the “Help” link on any page. Customer Service Email ID # 1009. c 2017!, Inc. All rights reserved I would like to thank residents and councillors for your continued support. Should you need my help or advice on any matter or issue, I pride myself on always making myself available to residents and councillors and getting straight back to you. Remember I am only a phone call or email away. Kind Regards

Ozzy O’shea Working for you

Cllr Ozzy O’shea

Tel 0116 239 4336 or mobile: 07808 585825 Email: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

I’ve just finished building my Lego model of Rome. It only took a day.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

National Trust Leicester Association AUTUMN is apple harvesting time and a number of National Trust properties in the East Midlands have orchards which include apple trees. Apples can be purchased at most of the properties and the windfalls can even be collected free at one venue.

Groups encouraged to apply for climate change grants COMMUNITY groups and organisations can now apply for the latest round of Shire climate change grants.

The Walled Kitchen Garden at Clumber Park, near Ollerton (pictured right), is home to the National Collection of apples and contains 72 varieties of apple. This is the largest selection of varieties at any National Trust property. The next largest local collection is on the Gunby Hall estate near Skegness where 54 varieties of culinary and desert apples can be found. The oldest apple tree is a “Catshead”, a variety known from 1629 and the most recent is a “Winter Gem”, first bred in 1985. The Massingberd family who owned the estate for over 500 years maintained the orchard to provide fruit from August until May each year. At Lyveden, near Kettering, the large orchard only contains seven different types of apples, all perfect for picking. These include some local apple varieties dating back to the thirteenth century which we know were served to guests over the last 400 years. The Trust’s most famous apple tree is at Woolsthorpe Manor, near Grantham, the home of Sir Isaac Newton. The tree is believed to be over 400 years old but it was 240 years ago that the falling apple led to Newton’s discovery of gravity. The tree is now the focus of international pilgrimage for visitors from around the world. Much closer to Groby, the small peaceful orchard at Stoneywell Cottage at Ulverscroft only contains six trees. It is ideal for a picnic on a sunny day and you are welcome to take away a few of the windfalls.

Forthcoming events • The NT Leicester Association has an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 25th October when Brian Johnson will present a talk entitled “The History of Leicester Cinema”. 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 14th November at The Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone at 7.30pm. Heather Herrington (NT) will present an illustrated talk entitled “George & Mary – a Kedleston Love Story” Admission to both 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

Grants of up to £5,000 are available through the scheme run by Leicestershire County Council to help the groups and organisations to reduce their carbon emissions by improving their community buildings. Groups which have already been supported by the grant include members of Blaby Methodist Church, who received help with cavity wall insulation and new heaters for their building in Winchester Road. Property secretary Ann Lowther said “In September 2016, we received a grant to replace the old heaters in the hallway and these new heaters are far more efficient than the old ones. They warm the room more quickly which means we’re not using as much gas.” Councillor Pam Posnett, the county council’s cabinet member for Shire grants, said: “We want to encourage groups to come forward and apply for Shire grants as they help them to make improvements to their buildings, particularly around reducing carbon emissions.” To be eligible for a grant from the current round of funding, you must apply before Monday, 30 October. There will be a further round of funding which will close on Wednesday, 28 February 2018. Projects must be located in Leicestershire (not including Leicester City or Rutland) and, for more information and how to apply, visit www.leicestershire.gov. uk/community-grants or contact Nailesh Ramaiya on 0116 305 8111 or email Nailesh.Ramaiya@leics. gov.uk

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Markfield & Thornton Theatre Group

It’s almost Panto Time again - book early to avoid disappointment! THE MARKFIELD & THORNTON Theatre Group proudly presents its annual traditional family pantomime - Puss In Boots – Trouble At T’mill! - written And Directed By Muriel Walker. Performances run from 15th to 20th January 2018 at Thornton Community Centre. Jolly Miller is a little disappointed to discover that his only legacy from his father, late-time Miller of Sleeping-in-the-Reeds, is a cat. Little does Jolly know that, thanks to the magic that is tangled in the air, the cat will lead him into amazing adventures. Who would ever suspect that he will meet the King, the Queen and, of course, the beautiful princess? However, Jolly’s journey to fame and fortune may not be an easy one! Living in the caves that honeycomb the hills is a gaggle of

grimy, grisly goblins ... fearsome and freaky creatures under the rule of the gruesome Goblin Queen – Gobnoxious. They threaten the very existence of the kingdom! Be afraid. Be very afraid! However, don’t be frightened for too long because there is sure to be a happy ending! The pantomime will be full of colour, comedy, merriment and music and, of course magic and romance! It features a chorus from THE LINDA WILLIAMS ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS – whose dancers always delight our audiences and who have won,

against very strong competition, the “Best Dance Chorus Award” from the Pantomime Alliance of Leicestershire for the past two years. Rehearsals are in their early stages but much fun is being had by all! Tickets are already flying off the shelves. So, if you’d like to have an evening of fun and come to see the pantomime, don’t forget to book yours! We appreciate your support. TICKETS £5 each. (NO CONCESSIONS) are available at THORNTON’S CORNER STORE.. at the corner of Church Lane OR FROM OUR BOOKINGS OFFICER ON 01530 469 714

Hear, hear A VERY deaf elderly man was finally fitted out with a hearing aid that really worked. A month later his doctor called him in for a check-up. ‘Your family must be really pleased that you can hear again.’ The gentleman replied, ‘Oh, I haven’t told my family yet. I just sit around and listen to the conversations. And so far, I’ve changed my will three times!’

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Allotment Society News ... from Carol Lincoln Hedgehog alert!

AUTUMN is upon us, the time of mists and mellow fruitfulness as the saying goes, and this means a gradual reduction in the produce to be harvested on the plots, although Autumn Bliss raspberries on my plot are still producing well and in sufficient quantities to give us several puddings a week.

Disabled Raised Beds Project

We still have parsnips, carrots, kale and brussel sprouts growing and although the task of picking has lessened, there is still the job of making sure the plot is weedfree before the winter. Then we can either cover the ground with sheeting to prevent more weeds establishing over the winter months, or grow ‘green manure’ plants which will grow through the winter, giving shelter to the beneficial insects and beetles, and which can be dug in come the spring to add nutrients to the soil. Getting rid of the weeds now not only helps provide no hiding place for slugs but also stops the more pernicious ones from seeding and spreading over not only your own plot, but more importantly, also your neighbour’s, with the possibility of associated discord!

Our volunteers have been hard at work on our raised beds for the disabled plot project and two raised beds are now almost complete, the only task left is to fill them with top soil before the winter so they can settle down. We have been lucky enough to

have some top soil donated to us and so only need to barrow down the soil from the car park to the plot and add it to the raised beds, after checking it for unwelcome weeds etc. It’s very good exercise for building up your stamina! We should definitely have the two beds ready to rent out by next Spring, and hope to be able to complete the project as soon as funds allow.

The season when we are allowed to burn garden waste which we can’t compost is almost upon us. It starts again on 1st November but can I put out a plea to all those who have a pile of garden waste that they want to burn, to please make time to check the pile for any slumbering hedgehogs before you set light to it? We have suddenly noticed one coming into our garden at dusk, hopefully to eat their way through the number of slugs which inhabit our space. Hoping to entice him/her to stay, I have been putting out a small tray of hedgehog food at dusk, taking it in again before we go up to bed, to discourage cats coming into the garden for a free meal. Imagine our surprise when one night this week we found two hedgehogs, not one, munching their way through the food! Hopefully slugs and snails will be a thing of the past if I can persuade them to set up house close by!

Open Shed Sundays By the time you read this, we will have had our last Open Shed Sunday for this year, but because of the unsettled weather lately, and more particularly, the high winds and heavy rain forecast for the 1st October meant that it was postponed until the following Sunday. Hopefully it was able to go ahead then and not postponed again! The Open Shed Sundays recommence next Spring and are open to all-comers, not just Allotment members, so do come down once a month to say hello and have a cup of tea or coffee and a chat.

I always put in a full eight hours at work. Spread out over the course of the week.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk Dr Peter Brierley considers the impact of children losing – or gaining – a parent.

The impact of transitions on children WHEN THE adults in a family with children change – either because of divorce, death, or change of partner if a couple cohabit, such a change is called a ‘transition’. When this happens, children are inevitably impacted. Now children who are under 12 years of age have been measured in an international study. It indicated that, in general, transitions cause instability for the children, and such often impacts their development. The study found that the greatest degree of stability (that is the fewest number of transitions) was in homes where the two adults were married. Even so, 32% of marriages in the UK suffer a rupture in the first 12 years of their child’s life. If the parents are cohabiting, the likelihood is twice this percentage, at 60%, and for single parents it is 73%. The study found that the UK had the highest rates of transition, for both married and cohabiting couples. The nearest country to us was the United States, with percentages, respectively, of 24% and 45%. The average across the rest of Europe for transitions with married couples before their child was 12 was just 9%, and for cohabiting couples, 17%. What this shows is that when measured over the first 12 years of their (first) child’s life, the likelihood of a break in relationships between the parents was twice as great if the couple were cohabiting than if they were married. If the couple are British the likelihood of a break-up, however, is almost four times that seen across the rest of Europe, both for those married and cohabiting.

TO ADVERTISE in the Spotlight, call Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069

When I asked if you’d like to go out on a date sometime, I meant with me.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Groby Gardening Society News The Village Show AS SUGGESTED last month, here are the worthy winners from the show held on 20th August.

Young Person Section Class 74A Book Mark 1st Emma Kitchen 2nd Ben Window 3rd Esme Window Class 73 A Poem 1st Esme Window 2nd Ben Window Class 72 A Decorated Plate 1st Ben Window 2nd Esme Window Class 69 A Knitted Scarf 1st Esme Window Class 68 Cupcakes 1st Ben Window 2nd Esme Window Class 67 Cress in Eggshell 1st Esme Window 2nd Ben Window The Parish Council Cup, awarded to the Best Exhibit in the Young Persons’ Section Ben Window

Special Prizes Class 53 To celebrate the Leicester & Leicestershire Judges Guild Diamond Anniversary 1st Kay Blick 2nd Jane Marston 3rd Janet Walne Class 54 A Vegetable Tray sponsored by The Allotment Society 1st Ernie Marston Class 59 Diamond Celebration Flower Arrangement 1st Kay Blick

Best Exhibits Classes 1-17 - Floral section Alvar Johnson Classes 18-23 - Container plants section - Kay Blick Classes 24-53 - Fruit and vegetable section - Ernie Marston Classes 55-59 - Flower arrangement section - Janet Walne

Atherton Trophy for most The 2017 show was judged points in the handicraft by many to be the best for sections several years. Enid Watson The exhibition benches were Richardson Plate for the winner crowded with impressive of class 66 (salad items) specimens, especially in the Cups and Trophies Enid Watson vegetable and flower sections. Parish Council Young Person’s Many of the exhibits in the flower D. A. Colledge Shield for the Cup winner of class 88 (A favourite arranging and craft areas left Ben Windows visitors in awe at the skill and cake) Croxtall Shield for most points dedication needed to produce such Pam Poole in floral section wonders. G.G.S. cup (& £5!) for Best Alvar Johnson As usual, the cookery section exhibit in show was mouth-wateringly good and Callis Shield for most points in Lynda Hawkes what pleasure the judges must container plants section W.I.Trophy for Groby W.I. have had in the tasting of such Kay Blick member with 2nd most points delicacies. Much of the success Jarram Shield for most points in show of the show is due to the team in fruit and veg section Angela Taylor work between Groby’s Gardening Ernie Marston Balderstone Trophy for Groby Society and Women’s Institute, with The Banksian Medal for most W.I. member with most points the latter organising the delicious points in horticultural sections in show refreshments on offer. Kay Blick Kay Blick It was pleasing to see so many Gamble Shield for most points Parish Council Cup for 2nd villagers supporting the event by in flower arrangements section most points in show their presence in the afternoon and Molly Matson Philippa Brown sharing the successes of the various Firth Shield for most points in Morris Cup for most points in prize winners. Amongst these was the cookery section show Kay Blick, who historically has Philippa Brown Kay Blick always done well, but this year won the Banksian Medal for the second time. The work behind the show is immense and will shortly begin for the 2018 show. Our show secretary (Jane Marston) and G.G.S. treasurer (Eric Atherton) deserve a special mention and thanks for their unstinting efforts to TICKETS to the Leicester Business Festival, taking place make the show a success. Classes 60-66 - Handicrafts section - Lynda Hawkes Classes 75-89 - Cookery and preserves section (class 82) Philippa Brown

Leicester Business Festival Tickets are now available

between 23 October and 3 November, are now available to book.

Around 150 events will form a packed programme in the third annual Business Festival to take place in Leicestershire. The Leicester Business Festival, partnered by Leicester Castle Business School is the region’s largest business event. It will include many different seminars, conferences meetings and webinars that will appeal to businesses of all shapes and sizes from sole traders and microbusinesses to employees in large corporate organisations. Over 95% of the events are completely free to attend, although tickets must be booked in advance and are available on a first come first served basis. There are hundreds of different events in the programme from key sectors including communications, marketing and business support, professional and financial services, retail and food and drink to tourism and hospitality, logistics, creative industries and much more. The Business Festival is also supported by well-known business organisations including East Midlands Chamber, LLEP Business Gateway, the Federation of Small Businesses, Highcross Leicester, Brewin Dolphin, Leicester Racecourse and IBM. Other supporters include East Midlands Trains, IOD, De Montfort University, Leicester University and media partners, Capital FM, Global Radio and the Leicester Mercury.

I poured root beer in a square glass. Now I just have beer.

Coming up…. November 9th: “Tulip Time” - John Gibson December 5th: 40th Anniversary Lunch December 14th: Annual Christmas meal & entertainment January 11th 2018: Annual General Meeting If you like the sound of what we get up to, why not come along to a meeting and try us out. You will be most welcome. Our monthly meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill. Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Eric Atherton. (Tel. No. 0116 287 6637) or E mail e.atherton637@btinternet.com

Alvar Johnson

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

ADOLESCENT OBESITY: a deadly habit

Call the team you can trust.

HERE IS some sobering news: too many of Britain’s teenagers are Facebooking their way to an early grave by leading global league tables for sedentary habits. Such is the finding of a recent World Health Organisation report.

When adolescent obesity was studied in 42 countries, the UK youngsters came out among the worst for the sheer amount of time they spend on their computers. 85 per cent of girls in Scotland spend at least two hours a day on computers, along with 81 per cent of those in England, and 80 per cent of those in Wales. The figures for boys are even higher. 88 per cent of 13-year-old boys in Scotland spend at least two hours a day on computers, along with 87 per cent of those in England. Figures for all UK children aged 11 – 15 show a more than 50 per cent rise in the number compared with 2002. Meanwhile, one in four teenagers in England is clinically obese by the age of 15. As Tam Fry, the chairman of the National Obesity Forum, put it: ‘Adolescents are now slaves to handheld devices, and this is doing nothing for their health’. As a doctor for WHO warned: childhood obesity has become ‘one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century… Most young people will not outgrow obesity.’

Grave certainties

AS A BAGPIPER, I play many gigs. Recently I was asked by a funeral director to play at a graveside service for a homeless man with no family or friends. The service was to be at a cemetery some distance away. As I was not familiar with the area, I got lost, and finally arrived an hour late. The funeral director and hearse were long gone. There were only the diggers left and they were eating lunch. I went to the side of the grave and looked down. The lid was partially covered with soil. The diggers stared at me over their sandwiches, and I sensed their reproach that I had deserted this dead man in his final hour of need. I didn’t know what else to do, so I started to play. The diggers looked quite startled at this, and put down their lunches. But they stood quietly enough while I played out my heart and soul for this man with no family and friends. And as I played ‘Amazing Grace,’ the workers began to weep. They wept, I wept, we all wept together. When I finished, I packed up my bagpipes and started for my car. Though my head hung low, my heart was full. As I opened the door to my car, I heard one of the workers say, ‘I never seen nothin’ like that before and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.’ So, apparently I’m still lost....

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My mate thought he was clever because his blood test results said A+.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

News from Elizabeth Woodville Primary School AT ELIZABETH Woodville, we pride ourselves on bringing learning to life through a curriculum linked to current events and practical experiences. The first month of the year has already produced some incredible highlights, from contacting the Cassini space probe and following its fateful journey, to learning first-hand about the determination needed to achieve sporting success from 2 Olympic champions. Simply amazing!

Brownlee Foundation Triathlon brings a taste of Olympic success Our Year 6 pupils enjoyed an unforgettable day, taking part in their own triathlon experience on Friday 29th September. The event was set up by Alistair and Jonny Brownlee, Olympic gold and silver medallists in Rio 2016. They founded the Brownlee Foundation in recognition of the role that schools and sports clubs played in supporting their early development as athletes.

the explorers enjoyed a picnic by their own campfire, in a den that they’d created. What an incredible journey, I wonder where the adventure will take them next time…?

KS1 Super heroes save the day! Key Stage 1 have been enjoying learning lots about Judaism this half term. We have discovered what objects and beliefs are special to Jewish people and the children made book marks to remind themselves about their own special beliefs. We also had a fantastic ‘Super Hero’ day. Children in Year 1 and 2 dressed as Super Heroes and took part in fun activities, including a treasure hunt, mask making and experiments to discover the best Super Hero magnetic costumes!

Expert volcanologists and geologists at work! Class 3 have been continuing to learn about Natural Disasters during their ‘Tremors’ topic. We have looked at the Earth’s layers and how the tectonic plates move in different ways. Pupils’ impressed by using the correct language when explaining all of the layers. We looked at how and why volcanoes erupt and can locate where some of the most dangerous volcanoes live. In RE, we have been considering the story of Noah’s ark and all pupils are truly shining in our computing sessions and recorder lessons. If you would like to see what else we have been up to, visit the school twitter page (@ewoodvilleps) for our weekly vlog! Year 4 have been finding out about fossils. We know the names of the different types of fossils and how they are formed. To help us to understand the process, we used a jelly snake (fossil) sandwiched between slices of white, brown and granary bread (sediment) and then squashed them to see the process unfold before our eyes!

Elizabeth Woodville Mission Control to Cassini Space Probe The event gave our pupils the opportunity to take on all the disciplines of the triathlon, swimming, cycling 800m and running 300m. All pupils showed their Olympic determination to complete the events. They even had the chance to meet Alistair and Jonny themselves and ask for their tips for Olympic success! Our Year 6 class demonstrated a championship spirit, truly earning their medals. There is no doubt that with this willpower and resilience we may see them on an Olympic podium in the near future! Everyone enjoyed this unforgettable experience, thank you to the Brownlee Foundation, Aldi and Charnwood College for organising the event.

Treasure ahoy!

Year 5 and 6 had an amazing time at the National Space Centre. It really brought to life our ‘Stargazers’ topic. During our visit, the pupils had the chance to hold actual meteorites, some as old as the universe itself. They were particularly excited by ‘the grand finale’ of the Cassini Mission. Pupils were given the opportunity to send messages to the Mission Control about their thoughts surrounding the mission. Back in class, we have found out more about the space probe’s findings in English work and have been considering the positive and negative impact of space travel. Following the visit, we now have a good number of budding astronauts, astronomers and scientists!

Foundation have enjoyed using their imagination to embark on a treasure hunting expedition. Children used the outdoor building materials and worked as a team to design their own aeroplanes and pirate ships. Everyone had a role to play to ensure the vehicles reached their destinations, from pilots to navigators and engineers. Once they had spotted their desert island (our Foundation garden), a collaborative map was created to point the way to the treasure! It was then time to (carefully) walk the plank and dig it up. After all that excitement,

It’s amazing what fine poker hands I get when I play bridge.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Newtown Linford Gardening Club

Anne Swithinbank comes to Newtown Linford THE NEWS that Helen Yemm, our celebrity speaker is unable to come to Newtown Linford this month came as a shock. Helen will be in hospital having an operation and we, therefore, understand fully why she is unable to come and we wish her well. A nationwide search for another celebrity to take her place has been enormously successful and we are delighted to have secured the services of one of the biggest names in British horticulture, Anne Swithinbank. Anne’s career has been enormously successful. Trained at Kew, she worked for many years as Glasshouse Supervisor at RHS Wisley before embarking as a freelance gardening journalist. She has written for many gardening magazines, had a regular column in the News of the World and has written several books on greenhouses, containers and border planning. It is as a television presenter that she became well-known. She was a regular on Gardener’s World for several years and has presented on TV from Chelsea and for a programme on Gardens in the Caribbean. She has also been a regular panellist on the radio programme Gardener’s Question Time. Although ticket holders will be disappointed that Helen Yemm is unable to come, we believe that they will be equally thrilled to be able to hear one of foremost gardening experts in the country and we look forward to welcoming everyone on October 24th at our village hall. Any ticket holders who wish to discuss this with us are welcome to ring us on 01530 242452 but we hope they will feel we have been successful in managing a difficult situation and still would like to come.

David and Anne Couling

Thanks to grandparents

IT SEEMS that the Bank of Grandma and Grandad is the go-to one, these days. Recent research by the bank Santander found that 8% of first time house buyers are helped with their deposit by their grandparents. And more than half (63%) of older house-owners would accept a fall in prices over the next two years if it would help young people buy a home, according to the National Housing Federation.

Don’t forget to send us your news! Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

October Small Ads • Medium Oak FIRE SURROUND 4ft

x 4ft. Vgc. £35 ono. • Four swivel cane BAR CHAIRS. £5 each. Tel: 01530 230355

• Collection of over 800 cds & some box sets. All genres: r&r, c & w , folk, 1940s to date plus banana box full of empty cd cases . £80.00 the lot or very near offer. • Trio caravan awning. Fits a 12 foot caravan. Waterproof & good condition. A small tear in the plastic skirt at the bottom but is repaired. (glued & sewn) £50.00 or v n o. Tel: 0116 223 6219 • Join the Vinyl revival! Garrard SP25 record deck, Panasonic Tuner amplifier, Two 40watt Sanyo Speakers all VGC. £25 complete. • Small portable calor gas heater, single radiant max 1.7Kw. Suitable for camper van, caravan, camping etc. VGC £15.00 Tel: 01530 244686.

• George Foreman Grill, tested but never used £25. • Complete set of Colin Dexter’s MORSE books (12) £5. • Alpina cycle helmet, black and silver, size 55-59 cms, boxed and unused, £20. • Grey clean suitcase, and assorted travel bags, £15. Tel. 01530 245796. • Cane Conservatory Suite. Twoseater sofa and 2 chairs. V.g.c. £30.00. Tel: 01530 243553 (Markfield) • Pop up Gazebo, 3m x 3m, green, waterproof, with 4 sides. New - still in box. £100.00 • Adult Mountain Bike, 18 gears, brand new, aluminium frame, £150.00 or very near offer. • Two large Suitcases, Tripp, as new, £25 each o.n.o. • One large hard shell case, Revelation, plus one small hand luggage case, £25 each o.n.o. Tel: 01530 245323.

• FOR SALE: Modern Solid Light Oak extending DINING TABLE & 4 CHAIRS. Dims: 85cms x 120cms Extending to164cms (33”x 47” ext 65”) 80cms (31”) high. Chairs High Back(112cms) Dark Brown Leather Upholstery All as new. £175 or very near offer. Buyer Collect Markfield Tel:07854 113393

• “YOU VIEW” Box (not used) still in box. • New Router (not used). Instructions for both. Free for collection (Markfield) Tel: 01530 245944

• Two-seater M&S Sofa and 2 cushions. V.g.c. £40.00 • Circular Dining Table, toughened glass top. £30.00 • Two-seater Sofa Bed, bed unused. £25.00 • Oriental carved wooden Hall Table, as new. Length 122cm x Width 40cm x Height 92cm. £25.00 • Three-drawer Filing Cabinet, grey, with key. £15.00. Tel: 01530 243553. (Markfield)

IF YOU HAVE any household items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Spotlight, please SEND DETAILS by post or email sorry, we can’t take them over the phone. Maximum EIGHT items please. Our postal address is Spotlight Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@grobyspotlight. co.uk. Please put ‘Small Ads’ in the subject line, and include your postal address (not for publication).

• 1950 Wooden Doll’s House, in reasonable condition. Some furniture. Needs a little T.L.C.. £10.00 Tel: 01530 242916. (Markfield)

She’s been married so many times that wedding bells sound like an alarm clock to her.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Have your say on proposed school transport service changes RESIDENTS are being urged to have their say on proposed changes to school transport across the county. Leicestershire County Council is encouraging residents to share their views on proposals which could see changes to its special educational needs (SEN) and home to school transport policies. The council is launching a 12-week consultation today (Monday, 25 September), to capture the views of the public about changes which could include: Reducing the level of discount available to students from low income families and those children attending specialist nurseries; Stopping council arranged taxi and minibus provision to transport SEN students to post 16 education and providing direct financial support instead; and Stopping transport to post 16 education for eligible mainstream post 16 students. The changes have been put forward as SEN transport costs have increased from £6.5million in 2011/12 to £9.2million in 2016/17 – an increase of 42 per cent, with the costs expected to grow further by four to five per cent every year. Councillor Pam Posnett, cabinet member for passenger transport, said: “Every pupil must have the chance to get to their school or nursery, but rising budget pressures mean we need to reconsider how we can assist. “It is important that people from across the county have their say and share any concerns they have so we can shape the changes that could be made. There will be public consultation drop-in events to provide information to help people submit their views on the proposal. The deadline for consultation submissions is Thursday, 21 December. People who would like a chance to have their say can fill in the consultation online by visiting www.leicestershire. gov.uk/school-transport-policy-changes or to request a paper copy of the consultation call 0116 305 0002 or email passengertransport@leics.gov.uk

Hospital Chart Bloomers

DON’T BE alarmed, but these are actual notes from hospital charts.... • The patient refused autopsy. • The patient has no previous history of suicides. • Patient has left white blood cells at another hospital. • Patient has chest pain if she lies on her left side for over a year. • On the second day the knee was better and on the third day it disappeared. • The patient has been depressed since she began seeing me in 1993. • Discharge status: Alive but without permission. • She is numb from her toes down. • The skin was moist and dry. • Occasional, constant infrequent headaches. • Patient was alert and unresponsive. • I saw your patient today, who is still under our car for physical therapy. • Patient has two teenage children, but no other abnormalities.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight 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: 18th November 2017 DEADLINE: 4th November A healthy sleep not only makes your life longer, but also shortens the workday.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

DINOSAURS found alive in Groby garden! FROM BEHIND the rockery appears what looks like a miniature rubber glove, deep reddish pink and inflated like the lips of a fat baby, then one single menacing red rimmed , yellow irised eye peeps out, it’s beady black pupil darting horizontally, then vertically surveying the area. Seconds later this is followed by a pointed beak, a sleek body and creamy scaled legs that end in talons strong enough to dig the most baked of earth. The dinosaur, Gallus Gallus charges at me full pelt - am I afraid you ask? The answer is no, my dinosaur’s name is Nini and she and her HEN friends are the closest thing you will ever see to a dinosaur (unless of course Jurassic Park becomes a reality). In recent years palaeontologists and scientists have discovered that some dinosaurs had feathers and that these dinosaurs somehow survived when most of the nonfeathered varieties became extinct. Over millions of years these feathered reptiles evolved in a multitude of different ways creating incredibly diverse species of birds, each developing to suit the extreme range of habitats in our world Chickens have, (according to some leading scientists) seen the least amount of genetic change from their dinosaur ancestors and this is proven by a study entitled ‘Reconstruction of Gross Avian Genome structure, Organisation and Evolution.’ If you have ever taken time to sit and watch chickens when they are unaware that they are under scrutiny, you will see behaviour that you can imagine to be ‘dinosauresque’. The tearing and ripping mode of feeding, the raising of their

neck feathers when fighting (yes hens fight as well as their male counterparts), standing on the backs of other hens, whilst wrenching out the poor underlings head feathers. This is where the phrase “pecking order” comes from. A title which suggest something that is much less aggressive than its brutal reality. In the sunshine they lay on their sides pressed to the ground, wings spread out like they have been steam rollered. When taking a dust bath their strong legs and sharp claws scratch the ground in a frenzy, the resulting cloud of dry earth plumes around them, getting into and underneath their feathers, helping rid them of any mites or lice that cling to them parasitically. If I call to them, they run to me, legs akimbo, body’s undulating from beak to tail, mimicking the movement of the groundbreaking CGI dinosaurs in the 1999 BBC series. Walking with dinosaurs. But nothing says dinosaur to me more than the way they communicate. If you have ever listened to the velociraptors in the film Jurassic Park you will have heard the sound made by a hen when she is curiously inspecting

an unfamiliar object. I realise that this is all guesswork on the part of the Foley sound effects artists who worked on the film, but nevertheless I would love to think that this sound of hennish curiosity is what a velociraptor would have sounded like. If you are under the misapprehension that hens just cluck (and that it’s the Cockerels who are the noisy ones) then you are very wrong. Hens have many different vocalisations some examples are, ... • A loud panicky alarm call to warn other hens of potential predators in the vicinity. • Then there is the sharp bark like sound to say “keep away that’s my food” • Some hen rants are very annoying like the blustering cacophony that states “I’m laying an egg as big as my head” and sometimes a reciprocal call from another hen to say “Get out of the laying box i want to lay my egg and you’re in my way!” My favourite hen sound is the contented purr, akin to the gentle vibrato made by an annoyed guinea pig. You can hear this when they have eaten lots of nice treats

and are sunning themselves in the garden. Hens are easy to keep, a couple will do nicely in a small garden. (Never have one chicken they do best with a friend.) Make sure you have a good hen house which is inside a fox-proof run. No matter how many times you lock your chickens up securely you can guarantee the one night you forget, the Fox will get them. It’s heartbreaking when this happens. Your hens will need fresh water and lots of it. Plenty of green vegetables and treats such as leftover rice, pasta or bread soaked in water. They do like freshly mowed grass, although this should be removed once it starts to go yellow. A good layer’s pellet such as Heygates should be fed to them every day and every six months they should be given a treatment for internal parasites. Hen houses and laying boxes should be kept clean and once a week they should be swept out and a mite and lice powder should be sprinkled into any crevices inside. This also needs to be applied directly to the base of the hens feathers every six weeks to destroy the eggs of mites and lice. Check your hens crops and vents (bottoms and egg exit) and feet every week to make sure they are healthy. If you are good to your hens they will lay you the most delicious eggs you will ever taste - rich and creamy - and they will store for up to 3 weeks. I have kept hens for as long as I can remember and I hope to go on doing so for many years to come. There is nothing more exciting or more fascinating than watching dinosaurs roam your garden.

Roxanne Dinsdale Groby

My girlfriend left me because she couldn’t handle my OCD. I told her to close the door five times on her way out.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

THIS MONTH’S meeting was very different but according to everyone I have spoken to, it was very well received.

Groby WI NEWS

Again, according to everyone I have spoken to, the visit to Kilworth House to see ‘Top Hat’ was one of the best shows ever. As one lady said, “I am no fan of dancing but it really did take my breath away”. The weather, which always plays a part at Kilworth was quite good although it did chill off towards the end of the show. A visit to the Curve to see ‘Sunset Boulevard’ received rather mixed reviews here. However another very enjoyable visit was to the Loughborough Theatre to see “South Pacific”, always a favourite.

Top Hat at Kilworth House Theatre - one of the best shows ever

A few members attended the Federation’s Autumn Lunch at the Barnsdale Hall Hotel. After enjoying a lovely lunch, the speaker was Lucy Adlington, a member of the York History Wardrobe and who now specialises in costume history, with a passion for the early 20th Century. Her latest book is ‘The Red Ribbon’ which is about women who kept themselves alive in Auschwitz by being able to sew clothes for their German captors.

Below is an excellent report by Pat who has put pen to paper and sent me an excellent resumé of the evening’s talk. Many thanks Pat, would you like the job?

Talk on obesity Professor Gavin Murphy addressed a packed Hall of WI Members and visitors who had heard about his visit in the Groby Spotlight. It’s excellent to hear that our reports are being read. His topic was ‘Obesity and Survival after Cardiac Surgery’. Professor Murphy began by describing the excellent work of the Glenfield Hospital in relation to cardiac services. His particular post is funded by the British Heart Foundation and he is keen to involve the public in his research. Professor Murphy confirmed the received wisdom that carrying too much fat can often be bad for us. Problematic fat is that stored around our major organs and can result in high blood pressure, low ‘good’ cholesterol and diabetes. So – obesity is very bad for you, unless you are having heart surgery. He and his team has discovered that, unless you are morbidly obese, you stand less chance of death following cardiac surgery if you are obese. Indeed his research indicates that death following cardiac surgery reduces by 30% if the patient is obese. As you can imagine this has gone down like a lead balloon with fellow medics specialising in

Federation Lunch obesity issues but comparisons with different cohorts of patients have shown the same trend. As a result of these preliminary findings Professor Murphy has been granted £3.4 million to try to find out why this happens and what the long term outcomes are for those obese patients who have survived. He has a team of ten dedicated people who are willing to work 14 hour days for six days a week in order to come up with answers in five years’ time. The Research Team are keen to involve the public in their work. Further information can be found at: www2.le.ac.uk/departments/ cardiovascular-sciences/people/ murphy/professor-murphysresearch-group/ppi-group. This isn’t the easiest web address – try googling Professor Gavin Murphy The Cardiac Centre of Excellence on your doorstep. Terry Finnigan talked for a few

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

minutes about his experience of heart disease and the work of Take Heart Leicester which is a charity set up to support those going through or anticipating surgery and raising money for those little extras that wards can always do with. A couple of other nuggets: • Statins save 10,000 lives per year • It takes about 40 years to develop heart disease • And Gavin’s definition of relatively young is under 75 years of age. I’m kicking my heels – I’m a teenager again!

Theatre Visits It’s been quite a month for theatre visits. Unfortunately but very fortunate for me, I have been on holiday and have missed everything. However, as usual I wasn’t let down, my freelance reporters have done me proud, many thanks to all.

Next Meeting Our next meeting is on Thursday, as usual at the Village Hall at 7.30 p.m. Again, you cannot say we don’t have variety, it’s on “Making Hedgehogs”, Maxine Geary will be telling us how to do this. We are to bring along an old diary. (Wonder what will be the most interesting, making the hedgehog or reading someone’s else’s diary??. If you want to know do come along.

Margaret

Weekly events for children and young people

for 6’s to 14’s on Mon evenings, at 6.00pm or 7.45pm; for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm; for 15-18’s on Fri at 7.30pm. We meet at the United Reformed Church All of these activities, along with our work in schools, are provided 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 www.grobychurch.org.uk United Reformed Church www.grobyurc.com Children and Families Worker

Sorry I’m late. I got here as soon as I felt like it.

Phil Holmes (Church Secretary) 225 3335 1733 John Fryer 07540 957926

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

News from Bradgate Rotary

Crocuses

WE NOW have crocus bulbs for sale in aid of the Rotary International Campaign to eradicate polio worldwide. Bill Gates Foundation and Rotary have campaigned hard for all children worldwide to be inoculated against polio – an objective almost within reach after many years of fund raising! Please let us know if you would like to buy these from us and add to the wonderful show we managed to have in the village last year

Bag of 30 crocuses £2 They can be bought from the Nottingham Building Society ( Groby Village Centre) during opening hours OR contact Jane at O7876561954 for collection/delivery.

Groby Wine Circle GROBY WINE CIRCLE is a very sociable group which usually meets on the third Monday of the month at Groby Community College. Speakers are invited to give talks on a variety of interesting topics after which there is a chance to catch up socially over a drink with a cheese and French bread. Throughout the year we organise fun nights out such as skittles, quiz nights, meals out and visits, etc. In June past we had an organised walk around the lakes at Water Mead Park followed by a meal at the Hope and Anchor. However our first meeting back after the summer break on 18th September where we caught up with summer things and found out about the elusive and secret life of “Clarice Cliff ” from our guest speaker Derek Holloway. Whilst not everyone’s choice in pottery it was interesting to learn more about some of the art deco movement, which only lasted for about 10 years, and it got us all thinking about what might just be lurking hidden in the attic or can be picked at the local jumble and car boot sales. Future guest talks include: • Monday 23 October – A brief History of Invention • Monday 20 November - The funny side a travel (from a travel agents point of view) We have a skittles night (including supper) on 27 October, at the Red Lion, Huncote. Starts at 7PM (please reserve your tickets in advance). Although we don’t normally like to talk about festive season this early in the year, our annual Christmas dinner will be on Wednesday 13th December, and this year will be at Ashfields, Earl Shilton and you will need to reserve a place at our October meeting. If you feel you would be interested in coming along or would like more information about our Wine Circle please contact either: Dave Cooper (0116 2392844) or Robbie Grundy (0116 2393853).

My mate just got a job as safety officer in a kids playground. I think his career’s on the slide.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Borough Councillors’ Monthly Report IN THE Groby & Field Head Spotlight last month I referred to the start date for the construction of the nine Martinshaw Lane bungalows. As a result of that article I received a query from a resident as to whether or not they qualified to be able to put their name down for one of them. Here is the Hinckley-Bosworth Housing Allocations Policy and Criteria that has to be met including that of the New Build Bungalows: The first step for anyone who is interested in the Martinshaw Lane properties is to apply to the Housing Register. Their application will be assessed under the current Housing Allocations Policy and they will need to meet this criteria. As these properties are bungalows, they will need to meet the criteria around mobility. There will be a further Local Lettings Policy to allow for preference for local residents who require this type of property. Interested parties can apply online by following this link: http://www.hinckleybosworth-homes.org.uk/Data/ASPPages/1/200.aspx If anyone needs assistance to complete a housing application, telephone 01455 238141 and ask for Housing Options. Please see the Local Lettings Policy below for your information:

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

Development

Martinshaw Lane, Groby

Local Lettings Policy period

1 year

Total number of properties

5 x 1 bedroomed bungalows 2 x 2 bedroomed bungalows 2 x 2 bedroomed bungalows wheelchair adapted.

Number of properties included in the Local Lettings Policy Specific criteria

100% of new build properties 50% of relet properties Properties let under the Local Lettings Policy will have priority given to people who meet the following criteria: • have lived in the village for the last 5 years • work permanently in the village (at least 15 hours a week) • was born in the village or previously lived in the village for 10 years or more • have close relatives who have lived in the village for at least five years (Close relatives are parents, siblings, grandparents or grandchildren) • need to move to the parish to be close to a relative or other person in order to provide or receive significant amounts of care and support. The properties will be advertised through the Choice Based lettings process giving preference for people who meet the local connection criteria. After the first bidding cycle, successful applicants who meet the qualifying criteria will be considered and allocated the property where they are eligible. If there are no applicants with a qualifying local connection identified in the first bidding cycle the Local Authority will advertise the property again. In total, the Local Authority will advertise through 2 lettings cycles to find a suitable applicant with a qualifying local connection. Where no-one with a local connection can be found, applicants with a borough connection who bid on the first letting cycle will be considered and nominated where they are eligible. If a suitable applicant can still not be found, the Local Authority will advertise again for people with a borough connection until the properties are let.

Reasons for the Local Lettings Policy Date of review

To allow local people to remain in or return to their community as their housing needs change due to age or disability. 1 year after the first property is let

Eligibility information

In order to be allocated the property applicants need to meet BOTH the local lettings criteria AND the council’s criteria for bungalows as set out it the adopted Allocations Policy. This means that people with a connection to Groby will also have to meet any age and / or medical criteria applied to bungalows or wheelchair adapted properties set out in the Allocations Policy. If no such suitable applicants are found, applicants with a connection to the Borough who meet the eligibility criteria in the Allocations Policy will be sought.

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

The properties will be advertised through the Choice Based lettings process giving preference for people who meet the local connection criteria. After the first bidding cycle, successful applicants who meet the qualifying criteria will be considered and allocated the property where they are eligible. If there are no applicants with a qualifying local connection identified in the first bidding cycle the Local Authority will advertise the property again. In total, the Local Authority will advertise through 2 lettings cycles to find a suitable applicant with a qualifying local connection. Where no-one with a local connection can be found, applicants with a borough connection who bid on the first letting cycle will be considered and nominated where they are eligible. If a suitable applicant can still not be found, the Local Authority will advertise again for people with a borough connection until the properties are let. Further help or advice can be obtained by telephone on 01455 238141 and ask for Housing Options.

Borough Bulletin The quarterly Borough Bulletin has often been critisised locally for being particularly focused on Hinckley and Burbage, a fact that I referred to at the Borough Heritage meeting held in Bagworth and at the latest Parish Forum meeting which was held in Newbold Verdon. I am pleased to report that this situation is now to be rectified but it will mean that the Rural Parishes will be encouraged to send information and articles in to the Borough for possible inclusion.

We Are Here To Help You Should you have any comments or problems you would like us to mention in our articles please get in touch. Please remember if we can ever be of service to you or your family please do not hesitate to contact us, our details are listed above.

Martin Cartwright & Ted Hollick

I tried to watch the world origami championships on TV, but it’s only on paper view.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Plans in the Pipeline The following local planning applications have been received by Hinckley Bosworth Borough Council’s Planning Department since last month’s issue of Groby Spotlight: Alterations to smoking shelter roof - at Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, 16-18 Leicester Road, Groby, Leicester LE6 0DJ Extension to and the conversion of a garage into one new dwelling - at April Cottage, 35 Chapel Hill, Groby, Leicester LE6 0FE Two storey rear extension - at 11 Marston Drive, Groby, Leicester LE6 0DY. Two storey rear extension - at 24 Fern Crescent, Groby, Leicester LE6 0BE

Grants to help an older person EVERY WINTER we read that many elderly people have to choose between heating their homes or buying food to eat.

And for some, it can be a struggle to make ends meet throughout the year. The charity, Friends of the Elderly, makes grants to older people as part of its mission to support them, especially those in need due to isolation or poverty. Applications are made by referring organisations working in local communities, and a quick call on 0330 332 1110 confirmed that churches could apply. The monies are to go towards utility bills, household repairs and adaptations, mobility aids and essential items that support daily living, and the cost of equipment such as tablets and broadband to help people stay connected. More details at http://www.fote.org.uk/

Barn dance to raise funds for Wildlife Hospital

LEICESTERSHIRE Wildlife Hospital will be holding a Barn Dance on Friday 20th October in Countesthorpe Village Hall, from 7.30pm to 11pm with fantastic live music from Govannen. Tickets cost £11 each to be paid in advance, and will include a ploughman’s supper. (vegetarian and special diets can be catered for , but must be ordered with your tickets) You can order tickets by phone on 0116 2881395 or email aliceann. kemp44@yahoo.co.uk There will be a raffle on the night and all proceeds will go to Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital

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They’ve now designed a new razor for dyslexics. It’s the best thing since sliced beard.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Live & Local

What’s On at Local Pubs & Clubs Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809

Wednesday Evenings: Bingo From 8 pm. With Members Jackpot Also Raffle. Thursdays Line Dancing With Jeff From 8 pm

Saturday 14th October: - Tones Of Soul - We Welcome These Guys Back Again

Last Friday Of Each Month - Andy’s Quiz Night.

Friday 20th October: - Roustabout - Excellent Local Duo

Every Saturday Bingo In Lounge With Free Supper For All Players From 8 pm.

Saturday 21st October: - Stephen James - Out Of This World Frankie Valli Tribute - As Seen Live On The West End - No Ticket Needed For This Show!

Every Sunday Dancing To Organist From 8 pm. £2-00 Entry On Door With Raffle/Eight Houses Bingo(Optional)

Friday 27th October: - Eye 2 Eye Fantastic M/F Duo

Charity dance on Fridays: • November 24th. Also includes a raffle and a short bingo session

Saturday 28th October: - Lesley Excellent Female Vocalist With A Hint Of Humour

Saturday social dance: • October 21st Start at 8 pm. Admission will be £2. As with the charity dance, there will also be a raffle and a short bingo session.

Friday 3rd November: - Jo Leonard - Excellent Vocalist Saturday 4th November: - Manning & Mortimer Duo Friday 10th November: - Laura Alice - Fantastic Female Vocalist

All Enquiries To 01530 230205. Also Room Hire Available For Any Occasion.

Saturday 11th November: - TBC Friday 17th November: - Mark Tedin - Lively Solo Vocalist

The Club Thornton, Main Street, Thornton LE67 1AH 01530 230251

Saturday 18th November: - Vegas Show - Fantastic Show With Dancers & Vocalists

Sky & BT Sports. Free concert room hire. New Garden. Bingo on Tuesdays

The Club Bagworth, Station Road, Bagworth LE67 1BZ 01530 230205.

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Start applying now for secondary school places PARENTS with children due to start at secondary schools in Leicestershire next year are being encouraged to apply for places at their preferred schools by Tuesday, 31 October. They are being signposted to the county council’s website at https://www.leicestershire.gov. uk/admissions to find out more and to start the process. Councillor Trevor Pendleton, county council support member for children and families, SAID: “Last year, 97 per cent of Leicestershire parents submitted an online application and we encourage people to use this approach. We also want to remind parents that there is no automatic entry to any school so it is very important for applications to be submitted before the closing date of 31 October.” To further support parents in reviewing schools and making their shortlist, a new interactive ‘Your Guide’ to education has also been launched - again available on the schools admissions page of the website - to help them focus their search and make the right decision. Schools also hold open evenings for parents to view their facilities and speak to teachers. These can be useful in helping parents to determine the best school for their child. Parents should contact a school directly to find out more information about the evenings.

Sat 28th Oct: Dr Gastric’s Halloween Party

Tell Us About Your Live & Local Event and We’ll Include A Mention Here FREE! Fantastic! Email: info@ markfieldherald.co.uk

Every Monday From 8 pm, Dominoes With Supper £1 -50. Every Tuesday From 8 pm Target Shooting With Rifle And Pellets Plus Tuition If Required£2-00. Wednesday Afternoon From 2-4 pm Tea Dance £1-00 With Tea/Biscuits.

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I’ve been diagnosed with a chronic fear of giants. It’s called Feefiphobia.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Ted’s washcloth - a

true story from Operation Christmas Child Ever wonder what real difference a shoebox full of simple gifts can make to a deprived child? Here is Ted’s story… ‘I was an orphan in the former Soviet Union when I received my shoebox. We had to share everything at the orphanage, including towels. When I got a washcloth in my box I thought it was my own personal towel! It was very special because it was my all just for me —something that I didn’t have before. Another item was a notebook. It was awesome, because when I was moved to a different orphanage I could use it to write letters to my sisters. God used the shoebox to plant a seed of hope in me. All I knew was that there was someone who had cared enough to send me the washcloth and notebook. Through the next couple of years that was the hope that I held on to, that there must be someone out there who could care about me. My sister Tanya had heard about a God who loved her when she received her shoebox gift. So she was praying, “God, if you’re real, give me and my siblings a family.” One day I received a letter from her that said, “We might be getting adopted into an American family.” I again thought, there really has to be someone who cares for me. It could only be someone like a God. All these little things were pointing to this amazing, loving God and yet at this point I had little comprehension of who He was. I hadn’t heard about Jesus. When I was 13, we were adopted. After I’d learned a little bit of English, my dad told me that God loved us so much that He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins and that it was a free gift. I immediately remembered my Operation Christmas Child gift and thought, Wow, that makes sense. Someone who didn’t know me gave me a gift, and in the same way before we ever knew God, He loved us enough to give us this gift. At that moment, I realised that the hope I was feeling had been given from God. God ordained that shoebox for me. It opened my heart to Jesus, who changed my life forever.

It is not too late to pack a shoebox for this year! Just go to: www.operationchristmaschild.co.uk.

Successful skeleton To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone.

Our village has a tiny ghost that helps out during hard times. It’s good to have a little community spirit.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

10/2/2017

Word Search Puzzle

POPULAR CITIES Wordsearch Forgot username or password? Passcode/Create New

IF YOU can find 15 OF THE MOST POPULAR CITIES TO VISIT in this issue’s Wordsearch puzzle, you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty Solutions for Districts Free prize of: A Main Course for Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine at The FieldHead Hotel. Resources What We Offer We Are Stu To go into the draw, all you have to do is find Who - and mark a line through -Teachers the names of 15 Parents of the most popular cities in the world to visit.These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: CITY BREAK, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur LE67 9ZT to arrive by Tuesday 7th November 2017. Remember to B O N M B N N Z W I D M E K I N E include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the prize. Good luck! X A M K O S T A S B Y A M R Z B T

K N R L D A P C R G W C H K G

B O O S F J L A V P V L U W X

R N K O V L U R R Z L A U I N

D C Y G U E O L C I L G Y R B

M K E B N Y E Y X A S N F G L

O A N L L A S R L S I O O T O

X A B H O Z B U O T N K R A D

Nordic Walking AMSTERDAM YOU COULD BANGKOK beBARCELONA excused for thinking DUBAI that theHONGKONG point of ISTANBUL walking with KUALALUMPUR two sticks is to LONDON have extra MILAN But support. theNEWYORK two sticks PARIS used in Nordic SEOUL walking SINGAPORE instead enable TAIPEI people to TOKYO work the upper body at the same time as the legs.

T Z C G O N M S N A G G P N K

L Y S U V P A X G I A N S B X

O I G Y U A R Z B P P O V L B

Z Z M R W U Q S P E O H R W F

M S T E R D A M D I R G D P Z

K R O Y W E N K P A E C Q O C

Z S M L C D U B A I J B V J Y

S X Q M N O U R X I S F O I K

J D Z I N B P L W S V I Z U Z

B O J W E I T Z N R A J X D P

Here are the 15 CITIES you have to find:

BANGKOK • LONDON • PARIS • DUBAI • NEW YORK SINGAPORE • KUALA LUMPUR • ISTANBUL • TOKYO • SEOUL HONG KONG • BARCELONA • AMSTERDAM • MILAN • TAIPEI

Name: ................................................................................................. Address: ................................................................................................ .................................................................Postcode: .............................

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

MRS TRACY ELLIOTT of Markfield Road, Groby Congratulations! Enjoy your meal!

burns more calories

Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com

It’s said to burn 46% more calories than ordinary walking, and to exercise 90% of your muscles, increasing strength in your legs, arms, shoulders, chest and back. It can also increase your heart rate by up to 13%, meaning you receive greater benefit through less effort. Nordic walking was invented in the 1930s in Finland, when super fit crosscountry skiers began using poles in their off-season training when there was no snow on the ground, and found that it gave them a competitive edge. Nordic Walking enthusiasts also find that because it is such a sociable activity, the sport can help combat isolation. As one pointed out: ‘ The benefits of spending time with others exercising outdoors are huge.’ More details at: https://britishnordicwalking.org.uk/

Local Clubs, Groups, Societies & Associations ... Tell us what you’re up to and we’ll include your news in the Spotlight! Tremendous!

I’ve just put my friend Richard on speed dial on the phone. It’s my Get-Rich-Quick scheme.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-OCT 2017 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Letter from Uncle Eustace

Did St Paul text the Thessalonians? Or What’sApp the Corinthians? The Rectory St. James the Least My dear Nephew Darren No, I do not think it would be a good idea for us to correspond by your wretched ‘e-mail’ in future – as I am sure you know I do not possess an email apparatus. At St. James the Least, we may well be poised to make the great leap forward into the next century, but when we do so, we shall leap forward into the nineteenth; it will be enough for future generations to give consideration to progression towards the twentieth. Beyond that does not bear speculation. Pen and ink has been the medium of choice for generations of clergy, as they should be for you too. St. Paul, may I remind you, did not send a What’sApp to the Corinthians - and was even proud to mention that part of his letter was written by his own hand. And while I am on the subject, it would greatly please me if you stopped using ball-point pens; they may be suitable for tradesmen, but not for a Clerk in Holy Orders. Do get yourself a good fountain pen and some permanent blue-black ink. Beware of parishioners who write to you in green ink; it is a sure sign they are unbalanced. Modern technology may well have a place in the commercial world, but it should not impinge on the life of the Church. Your photocopied monthly magazine admittedly looks rather grand, but it needs a smudged, cyclostyled edition to re-assure readers that this is a truly Anglican production. The sight of Miss Pemberton thumping out those stencils on her grandfather’s typewriter, which he used during the Crimean campaign, running off the copies and emerging hours later liberally covered in black ink gives a re-assuring sense of continuity with the past. Seeing her days later at church, still stained with printers’ ink, makes those parishioners who don’t know the real reason, speculate on whether she is moonlighting as a chimney sweep. When Jesus taught His disciples, did He have to wait until they could record Him on their smartphones? When He told them where they were to go, did they get out their electronic diaries to see if they had a ‘window’ that day? Or google ‘maps’ to make sure He knew the quickest way there? When St. Paul wanted to check on the well-being of the Thessalonians, did he think of texting them? I rest my case. Your loving uncle,

Eustace

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If your name is Andre, when writing, you should think twice before you sign off with a kiss.