June 2023 Your Local Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston, Newtown Linford, Woodhouse & Woodhouse Eaves

DIESEL POWER! Thousands Visit The Great Central Railway As Vintage Machines Shine

Thurcaston & Cropston Open Gardens

Sat 24th - Sun 25th June

Glenfield Gardeners’ Association Annual Show

Saturday 19th August

Anstey Town 50th Anniversary

Saturday 24th June

Mini Movers

Unsung Hero Award

Celebrating 15 Years

Anstey Musical Memory Box

Every 3rd Tuesday 2pm - 3:30pm At The Crown Inn

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An Evening Of Summer Music At All Saints’ Church

Thurcaston Friday 16th

June 7pm For 7.30pm

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Come, sit back, relax and enjoy an evening of entertainment by the singing quartet Cantare and Jude Richardson a Classical and Jazz Pianist. Songs will be interspersed with the All Saints’ Handbell ringers playing a range of ‘sky’ songs including Singing in the Rain, Somewhere Over the Rainbow and Catch a Falling Star.

Cantare is a group of friends who simply love singing. Val, John and Roger have all sung in choirs that

Monday Club Cropston And Thurcaston Cropston Evangelical Free Church

Article by Maja Tompkins

Annual Outing 5th May 2023

It was a pleasure to be able to join in an outing, for the first time since the restrictions of the Covid pandemic. We were so lucky because the day dawned bright and sunny and remained so for the duration of our trip, which was on a narrow boat manned by volunteers from the Peter Le Marchant Trust (PLMT).

Members and their guests gathered at the canal side moorings in Loughborough, the base of the PLMT and set off for a gentle and peaceful journey to Mountsorrel. The boat, called Symphony, looked very festive, with red, white and blue decorations in honour of King Charles’ Coronation due to take place the following day.

Carolyn has conducted, Roger in Highcliffe Harmony, John and Roger in Moira Male Voice Choir and all three of them in Yavana. Carolyn is more than happy to get back to singing after many years of conducting. They will be singing songs you know and love including, I Believe, Yesterday and Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.

Jude joins us all the way from Bermuda via Aylestone to play a couple of pieces. His playing is a delight and so effortless. During the interval wine, soft drinks and nibbles will be served, along with a raffle.

Tickets are £10 for adults, children free. They are available from: Jane Westby mowestby@ virginmedia.com or 0116 2352226, Eleanor Lloyd Jones eleanorlj@aol.com or 0116 2362503 and Carolyn Muggleton carolynam62@yahoo.co.uk

We look forward to a great evening of good music.

outward and return journeys were enhanced by the beautiful scenery and wildlife. Without exception, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day and were already wanting to book again for next year! Many thanks to Diane Rouse for organising the day.

Our next meeting is at 2:15pm on 12th June 2023, at our usual venue of Cropston Evangelical Free Church, when we shall have a speaker from the charity Inter-Care.

Visitors are most welcome at a charge of £4 per person. No pre-booking required, just turn up on the day.

Mrs Jenny Kennington

Contact telephone: 0116 2365402

Mrs Maja Tompkins

Contact mobile: 07709 201881

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We were served refreshments by the onboard volunteers and we were also entertained by “Rovin’ Ron” who sang, played the guitar and the mouth organ, with a range of songs to which we could sing along, such as “Please release me!” and “It’s a long way to Tipperary!”. Great fun!

On arrival in Mountsorrel, we disembarked to take a delicious pre-ordered lunch at The Waterside Inn. Feeling suitably replenished, we re-boarded Symphony for the return journey to Loughborough. Both the

Anstey Local History Society Can You Help?

Article

by Jane Cole

During the recent celebrations of the Coronation of King Charles 111, many photographs were taken. These are an important record of our continuing history. Whilst looking through the Anstey Millennium Collection it was discovered that, amazingly, the only photograph we have of any previous Coronations is the one below.

Protecting Your Family Inheritance

Article by Klara Dixon

Our frontline staff follow Government guidelines for visiting you in your home and they are fully vaccinated. LevLaw Ltd remains here for you.

Most people hope that their estate will pass on to their children and grandchildren eventually.

But this will not happen for many, unless careful arrangements have been made to protect their assets from being taken towards the end of their life to pay for care home fees. The solution to help protect your estate is a Will incorporating a Property Protection Trust (PPT).

A testamentary PPT can only be executed whilst both partners remain alive. Upon death of the first partner, their Will specifies that their share of the property is placed into trust and names the ultimate beneficiary of this share, normally the children and grandchildren of the deceased. The surviving partner, under the terms of the trust, has the unequivocal right to remain living in the property for the rest of their life. On the death of the second partner the Trust comes to an end and the property passes to the beneficiaries.

Coronation Party in Gladstone Street - 1953

Those identified include adults Annie Pollard, Mrs. Storer, Annie Kinton, Mary Ford and Rose Pollard - children: Patricia Pollard, John Storer, Jacqueline Wykes, Allan Bee, Tony Ford, John Bee, Maurice Bramley, Sylvia & Cynthia Wooton.

Courtesy of John Bee - Anstey Millennium Collection - No.960

We are putting out a plea for any photos of previous Coronations to add to the archive. More importantly, we would like any photos taken for this year’s celebrations.

As Brian always says: Today’s photo is tomorrow’s history!

If you are able to help, please contact us at: brian.kibble@virginmedia.com jane.m.cole@btinternet.com

Please note that unless you have signed up for the visit on June 21st, the next Anstey Local History Society meeting will be in September. We hope you all have a lovely summer!

Rolls-Royce Retired Employees Association

Article

by Graham Burton

The 13th June members will meet at Rolls-Royce Leisure from 12:30 to 2:00pm. New members will be made most welcome to this event. On the 25th June members are going on a five day break to Northern Ireland.

Anthony Norton

01332 703996 Email: anthonynorton@outlook.com

Graham Askew

Email: hazelburton44@gmail.com

As the surviving partner does not own the deceased’s share of the property it is fully protected for the beneficiaries, so if the surviving partner requires care, or even remarries, this share of the children’s inheritance is protected. This last point can be particular interest to couples who have come together and have children with different partners.

A PPT can help each person in a relationship ensuring that their children inherit their share of the property, while giving their surviving partner the ability to live in the property for the rest of their life. If the surviving partner wants to move to another property, they can still sell the property and the proceeds to be used to purchase a new property, the terms of the Trust remain over the new property.

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a vacancy has occurred in the office of Councillor for the Cropston Ward as a result of insufficient nominations for the election on 4th May 2023

The vacancy will be filled by co-option by the Parish Council at a Full Council Meeting and the term of office will run until May 2027.

YOU COULD HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR VILLAGE

YOU COULD HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR VILLAGE

If you are interested in serving as a Parish Councillor please contact the Clerk for full details of the co-option process and how to apply.

Email: clerk thurcastonandcropston.org.uk or telephone 0116 2367626 Parish

will only COST YOU £105* to make or update your Will.

We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - ONLY £119* each LPA if instructed during the Will appointment.

Our prices include home visit and Inheritance Tax Guidance.

* Standard Prices: Will £145, LPA £175 each. Prices do not include registration fees. 33 Colgrove Road, Loughborough LE11 3NL

Human Resources and Office Manager

37 hours per week, full-time and all year round (8:00am to 4:00pm four days a week and 8:00 am to 3:30pm one day a week)

Grade: 9 - Actual salary £27,858 to £30,078 per annum (Pay Award Pending)

An excellent and experienced administrator and communicator is required, as soon as possible, to lead our Administration Team on a day to day basis, as well as to provide high quality HR support to the Business Manager and the academy as a whole. If you feel you could excel in this role and have team leader and HR or payroll experience, we would love to hear from you.

We can offer you the chance to work with a fantastic team of colleagues with a strong, supportive staff development ethos.

You are very welcome to visit us prior to application. Please call to agree a suitable date and time to look around the school and meet our staff and pupils.

Please see the school website at www.southcharnwood.leics.sch.uk for an information pack and application form. Alternatively, telephone 01530 242351 or email: hcarnan@southcharnwood.org

As this job is designated as a ‘regulated activity’ an enhanced DBS check with Barred list check is essential

Closing date for applications: 9.00am, Tuesday 6th June 2023

The Wednesday Hub – A Warm Welcome In Thurcaston

Article

by Eleanor Lloyd Jones

AEIOU

What is the only American state to have a name beginning with the letter “a”, but ending with a letter other than “a”?

True or False… the letter “e” in the Google logo is the same colour as the letter “e” in the eBay logo?

__________________________

What name is given to the dot on a lowercase letter “i”?

With a name that means “little o”, what is the 15th letter of the Greek alphabet?

__________________________

What word represents the letter “u” in the NATO phonetic alphabet?

What does the letter “A” stand for in DNA?

__________________________

Which duo, who had a number one hit single in 1992, took their name from a song by The Smiths, but without the apostrophe and the letter “e” towards the end of the first word of the two word name?

__________________________

What does the letter “i” stand for in the name of the TV network ITV?

__________________________

Which is the only one of the four Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with a name that doesn’t end in the letter “o”?

__________________________

Which Asian capital city has three occurrences of the letter “u” in its name?

See page 14 for answers

DIESEL POWER! Thousands

Visit The Great Central Railway As Vintage Machines Shine

Article by Michael Stokes

Unusual, unique diesel loco visits line for first time.

Thousands of enthusiasts packed trains at the Great Central Railway as vintage diesel took centre stage for a gala. Steam power was side lined for the weekend as different locomotives dating from the 1950s and 60s wowed visitors.

“Diesel locos have their own generation of fans,” said Great Central Railway General Manager Malcolm Holmes. “These machines represent a time when lots of different ideas for modernising Britain’s Railways were being tried out. Some when on to have long careers, others were retired quickly!”

Among those which didn’t make the grade was the Class 17, which was star guest at the GCR gala. Built in the 1960s, they had a distinctive central driving cab, with low bonnets covering the engines. The idea was the driver could see in both directions clearly. However they were not a success and all but one was scrapped. Happily as guest of honour, on its first ever visit to the GCR, it turned heads and painted a picture of a ‘what might have been’ future!

“As diesels get older, they are just as important a part of our heritage railway story,” continued Malcolm. “When enthusiasts come to the line for our events, they boost the whole local visitor economy and we’re delighted to play our part bringing people from all the country to Leicestershire.”

Over the weekend of the 17th & 18th June 2023, the Great Central will celebrate fifty years of running heritage trains, hauled by steam and diesel traction, with another special once in a lifetime gala event, featuring a fifty wagon freight train, full details will be on the GCR website shortly www.gcrailway.co.uk

The Thurcaston & Cropston Good Neighbours group has joined forces with All Saints Church in Thurcaston to set up a weekly warm space meeting.

Every Wednesday afternoon from 2-4pm the Harrison Room (at the Church) is open for anyone to come and drop in.

The Wednesday Hub is free to attend - come along for coffee, cake, chat and a warm welcome! We also have puzzles, games (such as cards and Scrabble), books or you can bring your own activities with you. WiFi now available too.

For further details please call 07834 483850 or email us on Wednesdayhub3@gmail.com

Glenfield Gardeners’ Association Annual Show

Article by Alison Robinson

St. Peter’s Church Centre Church Road, Glenfield

Saturday 19th August 2023

2.15 pm

OPEN TO ALL - You don’t have to live in Glenfield to enter, everyone is welcome.

• VEGETABLES • FLOWERS

• FRUIT • COOKERY

• PRESERVES • WINE • ART

• PHOTOGRAPHY

• HANDICRAFTS

• FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS

• YOUNG PEOPLE’S SECTION (11-17 years)

More information contact...

Tel: 0116 2321120

Email: glenfieldgardeners@ gmail.com

4 words

Thurcaston and Cropston Open Gardens 24th and 25th June 2023

Article by Richard Elks

The Coronation just a memory?

The flags, bunting and picnic baskets returned to the back of the cupboard. Feeling in need of a weekend pick me up? Luckily for you Open Gardens is returning just in time.

Whatever the weather, gardeners in Thurcaston and Cropston will be throwing open their garden gates, pulling out the odd weed or two, topping up the pond, and coaxing their most reluctant blooms into action. All for your delight.

Spend Saturday and Sunday afternoons sharing the trials, challenges, and triumphs of local gardens; meet the enthusiastic gardeners who are opening their gardens for your pleasure. Come and chat, wander through paths and over lawns, seek inspiration and ideas; or simply relax and enjoy the hidden treasures behind the garden gates.

For more than ten years gardeners in Thurcaston and Cropston have opened their gardens on the last weekend in June. Your £5.00 entrance fee will go straight to support The Air Ambulance Service. What tremendous value, £5.00 for two afternoon’s entertainment and interest.

Some gardens will have refreshments to offer; cake, books, and plants to buy; all supporting a range of charitable interests. Come and join us; we love to see you all.

For more information about this event please have a look at our web site www. tcog.org.uk or contact Linda on 0116 2363872 or email linda@tcog.org.uk

From the gardeners.

Friday Night Films In Thurcaston

Article by Richard & Diana

“The Lost King” will be shown on June 9th and lasts 108 minutes With Leicester director Stephen Frears, our June U.K. film is an incredible Leicester story which is nearly all true. Over five hundred years after the last Plantagenet King, Richard 111, was slain at the Battle of Bosworth, Phillippa Langley, played by Sally Hawkins, became convinced that she had discovered his resting place. This is the story of her resourceful and exciting research.

5 words

“Operation Mincemeat” will be shown on September 8th and lasts 128 minutes.

In 1943, German forces had occupied Europe so the Allies were determined to launch an assault on Hitler’s troops but these Allies needed to be protected. British officers fabricated an almost absurd disinformation plan to trick the German commanders. Starring Matthew MacFadyen and Colin Firth, this is a superbly clever U.K. espionage film, based on a reallife WW 11 Operation.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost the usual £5, which includes a lucky prize draw and refreshments during the interval. You can pay your tickets at the door, if there are any left or buy in advance from : Richard 0116 2363 066 or Diana 0116 2362 619

whilst

Thurcaston And Cropston

Gardening Club

Article by Richard Elks

‘Plants for the Connoisseur’ with Simon Gulliver Simon Gulliver is a Garden and Parks consultant for the National Trust, advising on the development of 20 historic gardens in the Midlands. He trained at Pershore College, working at RHS Wisley, and for 10 years at Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

‘Plants for the Connoisseur’ is Simon’s favourite selection of beautiful plants that are a little different, interesting, unusual and/ or a bit more challenging to grow.

Simon considers himself lucky to have worked with unusual plants. With some plants that are more difficult to grow, you need to know what conditions the plants need to thrive. Indeed, some plants are very particular!! But some of the plants that Simon talked about can bring an added interest to a garden though flower, bark, scent, and interest at different times of the year.

Simon’s talk was based on a very extensive plants list that he sent in advance. This was copied so that each member had the list and were able to make notes about plants that took their fancy. The plant list was split into different sections, such as aristocrats of form, shrubs with a difference, classy climbers, border beauties, rock garden gems, and woodland wonders. Many of the plants featured in the talk were brought to England by the famous plant hunters such as ‘Chinese’ Wilson.

Although Simon talked about a lot of plants, he managed to make the talk very entertaining through humour, tips on how to grow and enjoy the plants, and through his vast knowledge. This was an illustrated talk and the photographs Simon used were mostly taken by himself and were high quality. Simon also brought a selection of plants for sale.

The Gardening Club meets in the Thurcaston and Cropston Memorial Hall

Find A New Friend In An Older Cat

Article by Grace Fletcher

Leicester Animal Aid is on the lookout for potential owners for their two longest staying cats, Jasper and Simba. They are two of the more senior residents at the Centre, Jasper being 10 years old and Simba at 16. The Leicestershire-based Charity knows that both would make fantastic pets for the right owners. Both cats have had previous interests but have not yet met their perfect match. As much as the staff at L.A.A. adore them, they would love to see them go home to a new family to call their own. Why not make a new friend in an older cat who needs a home?

Whether an experienced gardener or an enthusiastic beginner we are sure you will find something of interest in this year’s programme. New members are made most welcome. What’s more, it’s excellent value!! The membership fee is still only £12 for the year (pro rota) or £3.00 per meeting. So, if you are interested in gardening - come and give the Club a try.

For more information about the Club, please contact Dave Haddon (0116) 235 9758: david.haddon20@ntlworld.com

Or Richard Elks (0116) 236 8313: cropston161@hotmail.co.uk

Wed 14th June

Top 20 Tips from a former Head Gardener - Pip Smith

Top 20 tips from a former Head Gardener - Pip shares some of his favourite tips from his time as a Head Gardener. It’s an eclectic mix that includes ideas on how to save water in the summer to his favourite plants for those tricky to grow spots in your garden. There is something for everyone!

Pip Smith is a landscape designer with over 13 years’ experience. He trained in horticulture at Pershore College and has an MA in Landscape Architecture from Birmingham City University. He's held the post of Head Gardener at several private and public gardens, most recently at the highly acclaimed Wollerton Old Hall in Shropshire. In 2020 he set up his own landscape design studio based in Worcestershire and uses his previous experience to create imaginative, sympathetic and long-lasting designs for clients. This is an illustrated talk.

Wed 12 June

Club Outing to RHS Garden Bridgewater

Sorry, this outing is fully booked.

Wed 9 August

Herbs through the Seasons - Malcolm Dickson

Jasper, a cheeky and affectionate chap, has grown in confidence by leaps and bounds since he was abandoned at the Centre gates in Huncote five months ago. At first a very nervous boy, Jasper spent a lot of time hiding away and feeling unsure of his new environment. After getting to know Cattery staff, he now loves some fuss and always looks forward to their visits to the Purrfect Palace (a cat sanctuary facility at Leicester Animal Aid, used for nervous cats who may need a bit more space to themselves). Jasper is searching for an experienced cat owner in an adult-only home with no other pets, and plenty of space to relax in. Could you welcome him as your newest family member?

Simba has been staying at Leicester Animal Aid for over six months now, with no current

interest on the horizon. She is searching for a quiet, adult-only home to call her own with no other pets, somewhere she can relax and be comfortable. This tabby cat does enjoy some fuss, though she is quite an independent lady and likes her space. Her real love, though, is the sun – at any opportunity, she is soaking up rays of sunshine ‘everywhere the light touches’, and that’s where she is happiest. Are you open to offering a home to this sweet older lady?

If you are interested in making one of these cats your feline friend, please get in touch with Leicester Animal Aid on 01455 888257 or complete an interested parties form on their website: www.leicesteranimalaid.org. uk/re-home-a-pet/interested-parties-form/cat

Ceratostigma Willmottianum, a plant from the ‘Shrubs with a Difference’ section for late summer and autumn interest.

Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’, sometimes referred to as the wedding cake tree, from the section ‘Aristocrats of Form’.

Dryopteris Wallichiana, Simon’s favourite fern Paeonia ‘Bowl of Beauty’

Family run business with 30years experience in repairing and servicing all makes and models of garden machinery. Business is carried out on site at a time and date convenient to the customer. We also carry out repairs on Sunday’s. Please call or text 07904 103602

and we will get back to you asap.

Due to popular demand, Anstey’s antique roadshow returns!

Don’t miss the chance to discover if you have treasure in the attic...

From Coventry to Cape Town, antiques expert Andy Elton has been putting a price on family heirlooms and forgotten relics for over 40 years...and now he’s coming to Anstey.

The founder of Bentley’s UK - is just the man to make your dreams come true - or let you down gently.

“A lot of people are very unsure as to the worth of their items, which may have been stored for years in cupboards, lofts, garages and even garden sheds,” says Andy. “Others are convinced they’re bringing something that’s worth a fortune.

“You can open a box and know you’re not going to find anything of value. But they’re showing you something that is part of their heritage - you’ve got to be diplomatic.”

On the other hand, Andy is in a position to break some very welcome news: “One gentleman has a Rolex Submariner watch, which had laid unworn in a cupboard since it was given to him by his uncle. He was amazed when I offered him £4,000.

“Then there was the time in Nottingham when someone came along with a dusty bronze which turned out to be a rare work by sculptor Anton Van Wouw - I valued that at £5,000.”

Andy prides himself on offering a fair price” “I treat people as I would want to be treated myself,” he says.

“Everyone wants to make a profit, but you’ve got to be honest.

Recent testimonials

Thank you for your integrity and professionalism - much appreciated, kind regards, Pamela

“Good evening Andy I just wanted to say thank you for the professional service I received from you today. I was very nervous about the process and you were just awesome.”

“I’ve got customers who have been coming to me for 15 years and others who have been referred to me by family and friends, I think that speaks for itself.”

He’s always been interested in antiques and jewellery and has worked with two of the major auction houses in London and another in Nottingham. But he prefers to be his own boss.

“I’ve travelled all over the UK and I regularly go to South Africa, meeting thousands of people along the way,” he says

“You come across some wonderful stories; I love hearing about how grandad got his medals.

“You never know what the day will bring - that’s why it’s such a lovely job, I’m a very lucky man. Hopefully he will make someone in Anstey very happy!”

The Bentley’s UK valuation and purchasing day runs at

SPECIAL VALUATION AND PURCHASING DAY

Bentleys UK have been in business since 1980: we pride ourselves on our honesty & integrity

Anstey Jubilee Hall, Stadon Road, Anstey

Sunday 18th June 10am until 2pm

Any gent’s mechanical Omega wristwatches, we will pay you a minimum of £100

(In any condition)

We buy broken gold in any form: Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, dental...& any thing un-hallmarked, Gold in all forms

Rolex Submariners & GMT Master. We will pay you a minimum of £2,500

(Even if not working)

Sovereigns:

we pay a minimum of £250

we also buy any gold coins

Medals, over the last few years, have increased dramatically in value. Also required are any First or Second World War groups, campaign medals, cap badges or any thing relating to wars or militaria. (Please don’t clean your medals)

Swords, daggers, cap badges... Any items connected with wars are extremely sought after.

Re-saleable silver items required e.g. tea services, trays, picture frames etc.

(We also purchase any broken silver items)

Amber beads, as pictured: we will offer you a minimum of £50

Bring them along and let us surprise you!

Wanted: Boxed Dinky, Corgi, Matchbox; Britains, Diecast toys.

Look in your cupboards and drawers for any old fountain pens – we have a database of collectors waiting.

We are also now purchasing old costume jewellery

Old jewellery is extremely sought after at the moment – and we pay a large premium for any re-saleable items.

We guarantee to give you a true valuation. Immediate cash payment. If it’s just a valuation you want, please visit us. However, if that’s not possible, we are happy to visit you – just call us on the number below. Please visit our website www.bentleysuk.com and read the testimonials.

Gold Coins (GB & world, sovereigns, Krugerrands,Royal Mint proof sets), antiques, wristwatches, pocket watches, gold (English & foreign), silver, re-saleable jewellery items, amber, jade, any articles by Cartier, Tiffany, Aspreys, etc. Boxed Dinky & Corgi toys, Moorcroft & Clarice Cliff medals & militaria, swords & bayonets.

For any other information or home visits call:

077

6851 3132

Andy Elton is a fully licensed buyer and valuer

The experts of Bentley’s UK will be present, cash purchase offers will be available, no obligation, no appointment necessary.

WANTED: wristwatches including – Rolex, Omega, Jaeger, Breitling, Universal, IWC, Patek, military watches, Tissot, Seiko...in fact most makes, any condition.

Newtown Linford Gardening Club

Article by Anne and David Couling www.newtownlinford.org.uk/gardening-club.html

The History Of Anstey Town FC

This Year, Anstey Town Football Club Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary

Article by Alex Smythe

The Season 2023-24

It’s been Anstey Town’s most successful season for more than a decade and the frustration of not bringing home silverware only serves to whet the appetite for the coming season. A fifth place finish in Senior League Division One was accompanied by a quarter final appearance in the league cup (beating the Premier Division champions, Asfordby, on the way) and a county cup final appearance which ultimately ended in a 5-2 defeat against Harborough Town Reserves.

End of Season Awards

Our end of season presentation night, hosted by our very good friends at The Stadon in Anstey, took place on Saturday 20th May. The winners of awards were:

• Players’ Player of the Year – Zak Harris

• Managers’ Player of the Year – Josh O’Bren

The RHS have introduced a new award designed to be presented to people in the local community whose contributions to horticulture are particularly outstanding and we were delighted to present one to our long-term member Brian Anderson.

Brian was a founder-member of Newtown Linford Gardening Club back in 2002 and has served on the committee all that time, including a spell as its chairman. His horticultural knowledge has benefitted Newtown Linford village for over 60 years, and he has helped many villagers with their gardens during that time, He is currently tree warden for the village.

He is one of the most well-known people in our village and it is most fitting that his service to our community has been recognised. In the picture he is receiving his certificate from our chairman Mike Newcombe.

The visit from Jim Buttress, formerly superintendent of many of the royal parks and gardens, attracted a large audience, including several visitors from other local gardening clubs. He spoke without notes or pictures on the screen for an hour, enthralling us with stories of his time in gardening, starting with his earliest inspirations and through his time training at Wisley. There he was involved in creating a garden at Chelsea and was thrilled to spend time talking to Princess Alexandra, who, clearly, preferred to talk to the people who did the work rather than the bosses lined up in their suits.

He did not gossip about the royal family greatly but said how friendly they were when they met them walking around the gardens and how interested the Queen was in the plants. There were also interesting moments involving corgis!

We will shortly be embarking on our traditional summer activities. We visit a local garden of interest in Cossington in June and go to Trentham Gardens near Stoke in August. In July we will be holding our traditional Summer Garden Party.

More details of our club can be found on the internet or by contacting us on 01530 242452.

• Supporters' Player of the Year – Joe Harris

• Young Player of the Year – Josh McNamara

• Top Goalscorers (12) – Danny Page & Joe Harris

• Goal of the Season – James Hussey

We’d like to thank our sponsors, supporters (yes, we have supporters) and all the committee members for their hard work and dedication over the season. We also owe a debt of gratitude to Stew, Christine, Ellen and the other wonderful staff at The Stadon for their hospitality and support for ATFC.

We are a welcoming and supportive club, offering the opportunity for local players to join us on our journey to promotions and silverware but, most importantly, to build bonds, friendships and support for everyone involved. If you’re interested in joining our club for pre-season training and matches, please contact either of the managers (Alex Smythe 07458 356642; Rob Harris 07590 237200) Twitter: @ansteytownfc

Facebook: Anstey Town Football Club

Justgiving.com/crowdfunding/anstey-town-fc-50-years

Anstey Parish Council Annual Report

Anstey Parish Council

Jubilee Hall, Stadon Road

Anstey Leicester, LE7 7AY

Tel: 0116 236 2646 mobile 07458 305025

E-mail: clerk@ansteypc.org

www.ansteypc.org.uk

Produced by Anstey Parish Council

April 2023

Stuart Booth

Mandy Jordan Murray Peat Roger Peat

Kathy Peake

Martin Broomhead

Nigel Aston

Sue Billington Vice Chairman

Vicky Ball

Glyn McAllister Chairman

Matt Rogers

Grant Cotton

Annual Report

Purpose of the Report

1. To give details of the achievements of the Parish Council over the last 12 months and to set out the Council’s priorities for 2022/2023. APC is made up of 14 Councillors and has six Committees to help carry out the work of the Parish Council as well as one sub-committee, a working party and a steering group.

Overview

2. Over the past 12 months, the Parish Council and its staff have continued to be very active in maintaining high standards and developing its community assets within the village. The main assets of the Council are:

• The Jubilee Hall, a community resource which is being improved and extended

• The Stadon Road Recreation Ground, which includes the 2 equipped play areas, the multi-use games area and the War Memorial.

• The top green on Bradgate Road

• The lower green by the brook on Leicester Road, including the Packhorse Bridge (a scheduled ancient monument and listed building).

• The cemetery on Groby Road.

• Mitchells Field on Cropston Road.

• Link Road Playing Fields, which includes the rugby pitch.

• The Scout Hut which is leased to the local Scout Group.

• The public toilets in The Nook car park.

• The Public Open Space at Long Close, including the play area.

• The Public Open Space at Millfield Close, including the play area

• The Public Open Space at the Groby Road Development.

• The Allotments on Groby Road

• The Parish Council also maintains St Mary’s Church Yard, which is a ‘closed’ churchyard.

• The Car park next to the Co-op

• The Parish Council continues to provide Christmas lights in the centre of the village.

• The main focus during the past 12 months has been to ensure that all of these assets are kept in good repair for the benefit of the residents of Anstey

• The Parish Council will again be cutting and maintaining the grass verges within the village boundary on behalf of the County Council

• The Parish Council continues to maintain and develop its existing assets and to acquire further assets that it considers will be beneficial to the village.

• Main Achievements in 2022/23

3. There have been a number of notable events and achievements over the past 12 months:

a) 42 planning applications have been considered in public meetings including applications for 2 large housing developments. The Parish Council continues to work hard in collating information in order to comment on applications to Charnwood BC. The Parish Council has also responded to Charnwood BC draft local plan which could see over 1000 new houses built in the Parish

b) The Project and Grounds Committee have been working on the following projects;

• Jubilee Hall currently used by 14 community groups and private parties. Planning permission to extend the Jubilee Hall is on going. This will keep the existing hall and add a second larger hall for community groups and the Scouts to use. This project has been delayed due to the cost implications. Grounds investigation and amendments to the plans have been carried out to try to reduce the cost of the building. A grant from the UK Prosperity Fund administered by Charnwood Borough Council of £524k has been sourced for this project and will help to move the project forward

• The Neighbourhood Plan is under way with the Advisory Committee developing the plan. This is expected to be completed by 2023

• Link Road Playing area –The overgrown areas next to the footpath have been cleared

• Bus Stop Relocation – This has now been transferred from Leicester Road to Stadon Road

• The transfer of open spaces from Davidsons Homes to the Parish Council. This has provided the long-awaited allotment site, a nature park that will eventually provide an extension to the cemetery, the public open space of Burgin Road and the estate grass within the Davidsons estate. All these areas are now maintained by the Parish Council.

• The Petanque court at Mitchell’s Field has been extended

c) The Events Committee continue the community engagement strategy and are involved in various projects and events

• Hanging Baskets displaying flowers throughout the summer

• Platinum Jubilee Treasure Hunt

• Anstey in Bloom competition

• Planting of wildflowers in the village

• Planting 2 Community Orchards at The Bottom Green and Link Road Playing Field

• Councillor Surgeries

• Christmas Lights for the village

• A Christmas Party for residents over 90

d) The Parish Council continues to support local groups and this year have provided grants totalling £5448.50 to 13 local groups including; Anstey Guides, Anstey Lunch Club, Anstey Town Charity, Bradgate U3A, Martin High School Eco Club, Woolden Hill School, Anstey Gynsill Tennis Club, Train with Tasha, Chess Club, Anstey Gala Committee, Anstey W I, Citizens Advice Bureau, Anstey Food Bank The Council continues to work together with the other tiers of local government; Leicestershire County Council and Charnwood Borough Council, on areas of work that fall under their jurisdiction. For example: highways, street lighting and planning.

Anstey Parish Council Staff

4. Anstey PC has a total of ten members of staff who carry out the work of the Council. The administrative team consists of: the Clerk to the Council - Liz Hawkes, Deputy Clerk – Megan Sutliffe and the Administrative Officer – Robert Walker.

The Grounds team includes; Richard Jordan, Richard French, Neil Wright and David Hames Donna Brown, Becky Thrower and Bridget Douglas provide ancillary and caretaking duties.

Priorities for 2023/24

5. The elections in May 2023 will focus the attentions of the Council as it enters the next four years of work. A strategic plan will be developed to guide the Council.

6. This year the Council will be working with a new Grounds Maintenance Contractor following the retirement of Keith Galbraith. KGB Grounds Maintenance have maintained the grounds for the past six years and our thanks are extended to them for all of their hard work. An evaluation of capacity and equipment within the in-house Grounds team has led to a decision to bring more of the grass cutting in house. This will increase efficiencies and save money.

7 The Project and Grounds Committee first meeting of the year will be held on the 23rd May 2023. This is the opportunity for the Council to consider projects and priorities although the ongoing project to extend the Jubilee Hall is likely to dominate the council projects over the next year.

Current projects will be progressed including;

• the possibility of a pump track for Anstey

• improvements to the Multi Use Games Area lighting

• improvements to lighting at the footpath next to Woolden Hill School

• The future of the Scout Hut

• An affordable housing scheme for Anstey

8. The Events Committee will be working on delivering the following schedule of events;

• Hanging baskets for the village

• Anstey in Bloom competition

• Kings Coronation events

• Yard Sale

• a stand at the Summer Gala

• Remembrance Sunday

• A winter event for the village

• The Christmas lights for the village.

The Community Engagement Strategy ensures that Anstey Parish Council continues to support local groups to create a sustainable community within Anstey.

It should be noted that, in addition to the above, the day-to-day workload of the Parish Clerk and her staff is equally important and however much we aspire to achieve the proposals outlined above, it is often the case that we have to wait on the actions of other organisations before we can move them forward.

Residents will also appreciate that the possible development of other assets in the village may have to be considered to be secondary priorities.

Financial Information

9 In order to achieve its aspirations, the Parish Council has agreed to set its precept (part of the Council Tax) for 2023/24 at £337,548. This represents an increase of 5% to residents based on a Band D property (an increase of £6.01 per year or 12p per week).

Unaudited Accounts The following is a summary of the income and expenditure for 2022/23; this includes the sum of £320,284 raised as part of the Council Tax for 2022/23

Conclusion

I would like to extend my thanks to the Clerk and staff of Anstey Parish Council for their continuing efforts to provide top quality services and facilities for the residents of the village.

I would like to thank my fellow Councillors for their support and for all they have achieved over the past 12 months.

Glyn McAllister Chairman of Anstey Parish Council

Councillor attendance at meetings

The Public and Press are invited to attend the meetings of the Parish Council which start at 7.30 on the first Tuesday of the Month at the Jubilee Hall. Committee meetings start at 7pm and their scheduled can be found on the website. Only meetings of the Staffing Committee are not open to the public.

Your Parish Councillors are:

Glyn McAllister 77 Hollow Road, Anstey. LE7 7FR cllr.glyn.mcallister@ansteypc.org

Sue Billington 5 Broadway Furlong, Anstey LE7 7TL cllr.sue.billington@ansteypc.org

Nigel Aston 36 Summerfield Drive LE7 7QA

Vicky Ball 91 Cropston Road, Anstey LE7 7BQ cllr.vicky.ball@ansteypc.org

Martin Broomhead 170 Bradgate Road, Anstey. LE7 7FD cllr.martin.broomhead@ansteypc.org

Grant Cotton

Mandy Jordan 12 Hollow Road, Anstey LE7 7FQ 26 Hazelhead Road, Anstey LE7 7DX

Kathy Peake 11 Broadway Furlong, Anstey

Murray

Roger

Parish Contact details:

Liz Hawkes, Clerk to the Council

Anstey Parish Council, Parish Office, Jubilee Hall, Stadon Road, Anstey LE7 7AY

Telephone: (0116) 236 2646 mobile: 07458 305025

Email: clerk@ansteypc.org.uk, www.ansteypc.org.uk

Your Borough Councillors are:

Deborah Taylor

Paul Baines

Your County Councillor is:

Deborah Taylor

Your Member of Parliament is:

Edward Argar House of Commons London SW1A OAA

Tel: (0116) 235 0126

cllr.deborah.taylor@charnwood.gov.uk

Tel: 07977 178869

cllr.paul.baines@charnwood.gov.uk

Tel: (0116) 235 0126

Deborah.Taylor@leics.gov.uk

Tel: 020 7219 8140

Edward.argar.mp@parliament.uk

Anstey Parish Council

Article by Liz Hawkes

Yard Sale - Saturday 22nd July 202310am to 2pm

For the first time Anstey residents are invited to join a village-wide Yard Sale. By holding a Yard Sale from your own front yard, drive-way, garage or doorway, it is a chance to have a clear out and sell your unwanted toys, clothes, bric-a-brac, plants, household items and make some extra money for yourself or a Charity.

We will be producing a village map with all the Yard Sales plotted, if you would like to take part and add your own sale to our village map please contact the Parish Office with your address.

As lots of sales will take place on one day, it gives people the opportunity to walk around the village and purchase pre-loved items.

This year 10 of the existing Councillors applied to continue their role as elected members of the parish council. Stuart Booth and Matt Rogers have both completed a term of office and had decided to stand down, I would like to record my thanks to them for their contribution to the work of the parish council

At the Annual meeting held on the 16th March 2023 Councillor Glyn was installed at Chairman and Councillor Sue Billington as Vice-Chair.

Council Vacancies

There are currently four Councillor vacancies on the Parish Council. Becoming a local Councillor is a commitment to attend monthly full-council meetings on a Tuesday evening. There is also the opportunity to be involved in Council events, projects and working in partnership with other organisations. Training and support is offered to help new Councillors settle into their role.

Taking up this important work will help you to become more involved in your community and to make a difference to local topics of interests. If you are interested in local services, sporting and recreational facilities, progressing projects and holding local events the work is very varied and interesting. If you would like to talk to a current Parish Councillor we can put you in touch, for an informal chat contact the parish office. Telephone: (0116) 236 2646.

Over the next few month’s we shall be actively working to fill these vacancies and encourage you to find out more about how you can make a difference for your community.

Parish Council Meetings will be held on the first Tuesday of the month at the Jubilee Hall starting at 7.30pm.

Details of meeting are shown on the website, the agendas for meetings are published on the website at;

Blossomfest

This event was organised in partnership with the National Forest held at the Link Road Playing Field to celebrate the planting of the Community Orchard that took place during National tree week in November. The event was very enjoyable with people coming along celebrate the orchard in blossom. We are looking forward to seeing the fruit grow on the trees this year.

King Charles III Coronation Celebrations

Lots of celebrations have been held though out the village on the weekend of the 6th May, The Parish Council organised a live screening of the Coronation at the Recreation Ground. Although the weather was extremely wet, there was a very good turnout with lots of people arriving with picnics to watch the big event and enjoy the free entertainment.

We would like to thank the U3A volunteers for serving afternoon tea and refreshments all day and also the Bradgate U3A Silver Strummers for playing their Ukuleles for everyone.

www.ansteypc.org.uk/council-meetings.html all members of the public are welcome to these meetings.

Your Councillors

Your Councillors can be contacted through the Parish Council Office:

Councillors will once again be judging residents front gardens, hanging baskets and window displays in July. We are looking forward to seeing Anstey in Bloom once again, this summer there will be Garden Centre Vouchers prizes for the top three displays.

Tel: 0116 2362646

Mobile: 07458 305025

Email: clerk@ansteypc.org

Jubilee Hall, Stadon Road, Anstey, Leicester, LE7 7AY

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Specialising in beautiful bespoke bathrooms and en-suites, specifically tailored to meet their customers’ requirements, they strive to create a bathing experience second to none. Just walking around their exquisite showroom, you have the opportunity to see a variety of over 35 room settings, each perfectly showcasing many industry top brands, as well as a taste of the Mediterranean with Italian and Spanish wall and floor tiles.

From speaking to the team at Designer Bathrooms it’s clear that they want everyone to be able to have a relaxing and inspiring bathing experience. As such they are proud of their quality of service, products and their single level showroom plus they also specialise in accessible

bathing. Their displays include walk in level floor showers, fold down shower seats, grab rails, digital push button showers, lever taps and comfort height toilets.

At Designer Bathrooms it is perfectly clear that they understand just how important it is to make the right choices, for what should be, one of the most relaxing rooms in your home. As such they listen to your requirements and will guide you through the entire process, from first thought to final tile.

So when you’re next considering a new bathroom or en-suite make over, why not pay Designer Bathrooms a visit? You’ll receive a warm welcome as well as expert advice.

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Thurcaston And Cropston Local History Society

Article by Peter Smith

Have you ever painted the town red? At our May meeting, Mick Rawle took us back to the source of the expression, with a potted history of Melton Mowbray.

Though the area was inhabited in prehistoric and Roman times, the origin of the town itself was in the Anglo-Saxon period. It was centrally located between the “Five Boroughs” of the Danelaw (Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Lincoln and Stamford) and is first recorded as Middleton, which later became Melton. The suffix Mowbray comes from Bishop Geoffrey de Montbray, who was granted the manor – among many others – after the Norman conquest. (Geoffrey was also given the manor of Thurcaston but returned it to the king in exchange for Stanton under Bardon and East Norton.)

Melton was the only place in Leicestershire that the Domesday Book recorded as having a market so its history as a centre of agricultural trade is a long one. Cheese fairs were held regularly and of course the town became famous for pork pies. They probably began as a convenient snack that could be taken out hunting but by 1900 the firm of Tebbutt & Co was shipping Melton Mowbray

Anstey WI

Article by Sheila Timms

At the end of April, Anstey WI held another successful fashion show, raising valuable funds for the institute, and proving very enjoyable for those who attended. The picture shows the models at the end of the show.

pork pies all around the British Empire.

Melton stands on the River Eye, which becomes the Wreake further downstream. Though a canal was built along its course during the 1700s and two railways arrived in the 1800s, it was fox hunting that really brought prosperity to the town. Its location at the junction between the territories of the Quorn, Belvoir and Cottesmore Hunts attracted regular visits from aristocracy and royalty. Mick has identified at least 17 “hunting boxes” or lodges that they built for use during the hunting season, though not all of them survive today. In 1890 a famous Midnight Steeplechase was held, with the participants wearing nightclothes, but unfortunately the moon was hidden by clouds and the borrowed railway lamps were barely adequate to light the fences. Sometimes the revelry got out of hand, as on 6th April 1837, when a group of drunken “gentlemen” amused themselves by painting several doors, the sign of the White Swan pub and the town constables with red paint! The offenders were later fined the considerable sum of £100 each at the Derby assizes but their exploits entered the English language.

St Mary’s church was described by Pevsner as the stateliest and most impressive in Leicestershire. Before Sir Malcolm Sargent went on to national fame as the principal conductor of the Proms, his first job was as organist there from 1914 to 1924. Nearby is Anne of Cleves’ House, which was built as a

chantry house for priests but then given to Thomas Cromwell at the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Cromwell promoted the marriage of Henry VIII to his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, but a divorce soon followed, Cromwell was executed and the house passed to Anne as part of the settlement. In 1550, some townsfolk purchased land to provide income for supporting a schoolmaster, lighting the streets and other good works, and the Town Estate that they created continues to run the Melton’s market and public parks to this day.

In the summer months we arrange visits to places of historic interest, beginning with the Wigston Framework Knitters Museum on the evening of Tuesday 20th June. Please contact us through the website if you would like to join us.

www.thurcastoncropstonhistory.org.uk

At the May meeting they discussed and unanimously agreed to support the national resolution on improving the quality of our inland waters. This was followed by a quiz on UK rivers, which provoked some hilarity among the teams. The range of scores was wide. The winners were Sheryl Bramley, Amanda Thompson, Sue Crook and Maureen Cook.

It was a good night for Sheryl, as in the annual contests, she won the cookery cup, and shared the flower arranging cup with Sue Crook and Liz Heggs. Jan Darby received the craft trophy for a coronation inspired decorated orb. While the others were polystyrene, Jan used an orange, cloves, and ribbon. Ingenuity rewarded!

Stay Active This Summer

Article by Raj Sheladiya

With the promise of warmer weather just around the corner, thoughts turn to outdoor activities again. But for those of us with some form of arthritis, pottering in the garden may not be as enjoyable as it once was.

Arthritis literally means ‘inflammation of the joints’. As you grow older your body is often unable to replace new cartilage to counteract any loss, allowing insufficiently cushioned bones to rub together causing inflammation, pain and stiffness.

Get Your Lawn Ready For Summer

Article by Ian Walker

With warmer, longer days on the horizon, the beautiful bright colours of your garden are best enjoyed alongside a lush, green lawn. As the centrepiece of your garden, GreenThumb Lawn Treatment Service will ensure your lawn reaches its full potential as a weed-free, healthy, and well-loved lawn.

Our ‘Summer Ready’ Treatment is applied between April and June and features a fully coated fertiliser designed to give your lawn a timed release of nutrition over several months, feeding your grass and stimulating growth. This sophisticated treatment also includes a weed control to help eradicate those which are unwelcome on your lawn, keeping your lawn looking its best ready for summer.

There are things you can do though to that can help.

Diet is important. Eating less of the foods that can increase inflammation and lots more of the anti-inflammatory foods that can help to reduce it, can help: reduce your intake of coffee, alcohol, fizzy drinks and foods made from refined white flour and white sugar, as these foods are known to promote unhealthy levels of inflammation.

Do eat lots of oily fish or plant oils, nuts and seeds, and plenty of fresh vegetables and berries; they are packed with nutrients and antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation. Replace refined foods with brown rice, millet, barley, quinoa or buckwheat and spice things up! Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that are known to help relieve muscle soreness, menstrual cramps, headaches and arthritis. Turmeric also has heaps of antiinflammatory potential.

Another popular choice for muscle and joint pain is Devil’s Claw, a plant only found in the Kalahari Desert of South Africa. It has been used for many years to help reduce rheumatic, muscle and joint pain and studies suggest that long-term use of Devil’s Claw is not only safe, but may also lead to improvements in those with chronic lower back pain. Try A. Vogel’s Atrosan Devil’s Claw tablets.

For topical relief from inflammation you may wish to try Arnica. It’s well-known for its homeopathic use for bumps and bruises, but when used in its herbal form it can also help with pain and stiffness in joints and muscles, with research showing it may be just as effective as ibuprofen at reducing pain and stiffness in the fingers of osteoarthritis patients. Atrogel Arnica Gel contains herbal extracts of Arnica flowers and can help with muscular aches, pains and stiffness, sprains and bruising.

Finally, stay active. Regular, gentle exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight, which in turn lessens the stress you place on joints, helping to improve the pain of arthritis.

For further information contact Raj Sheladiya and his team at Health & Glamour, 17 Leicester Road, Wigston, LE18 1NR or call 0116 288 9424.

An added benefit of our ‘Summer Ready’ Treatment is that you’ll also receive an application of our fantastic water conserver, Oasis. Now is the perfect time for an Oasis Treatment as it helps your soil to make the best use of any available moisture, meaning you’ll need to water up to 80% less. Our popular Oasis Treatment now features an innovative, highly concentrated seaweed extract which has proven to have an almost immediate visual effect on the colour of your lawn.

At this time of year, we also recommend implementing a regular mowing regime to help your lawn be the best it can be. Dry, sunny days are the best conditions for mowing, however it’s important that your mower blades are kept sharp or replaced when needed to avoid causing damage to the grass plant. It is also important, especially during the summer months, that your grass isn’t cut too short as this will weaken it, attracting unwanted weeds. When dry, we advise raising the height of your cut from 1” up to 2” and give it a good drink the day after mowing.

Let’s create the lawn we both love.

Contact your local GreenThumb branch today 0116 269 4019 or email leicestershirewest@greenthumb.co.uk

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8. Independent 9. Raphael 10.

7. Shakespears Sister

6. Acid

5. Uniform

4. Omicron

3. Tittle

2. True (its red in both)

1. Arkansas

AEIOU Answers

Banns, 23 Emir.

Rustic, 18 Suture, 19 Elk, 20

Importer, 14 Cavemen, 16

Referee, 4 Batik, 5 Camera, 6 Seashell, 9 Lac, 12

Down: 1 Dame, 2 Cassia, 3

Legion, 25 Earwig, 26 Sun.

Dressage, 22 Trek, 24

Across: 3 Rib, 7 Parade, 8 Azalea, 9 Lens, 10 Epilepsy, 11 Citadel, 13 James, 15 Spire, 17 Capsule, 21

General Knowledge Answers

3. Bits and bobs

2. A bad spell of weather

1. Close, but no cigar

Pictogram Answers

Answers

David Snartt

Borough Councillor for Forest Bradgate

T: 01530 244804

E: cllr.david.snartt@charnwood.gov.uk

Charnwood Borough Election

I thought there may be interest in the result for the Forest Bradgate Ward in the Borough Election on May 4th 2023. This Ward covers the villages of Woodhouse, Woodhouse Eaves, Ulverscroft and Newtown Linford.

Sue Monroe 203 votes, Josephine Razzell 126 votes, David Snartt 695 votes. The turnout was 41.31%.

Charnwood Borough Council has 52 Councillors across 24 Wards, all seats were up for election. Following the count, the political make-up of the Council is as follows:

Conservative 23, Labour 20, Greens 8, Independent 1.

All the results from the local election can be found on the Charnwood Borough Council’s website at www.charnwood. gov.uk/elections23

I am grateful to all the Forest Bradgate residents who went to vote, the turnout was one of the highest for this election. I am also delighted to be elected again to represent the residents of this Council Ward. I will continue to do all I can to protect the unique identity of our villages and help residents with individual issues.

Coronation of King Charles III

It was so good to see the village of Newtown Linford come together to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III on Sunday 7th May. As a member of the committee, ably led by Dick Howard, I must thank Malcolm Brewin for the loan of his field, without this generous offer this event would not have happened. My thanks also to all committee members on making this event a success.

The highlight for me was seeing the children and young people enjoying the day, especially the games. These were organised by Charlotte and Carolyn, supported by the ladies of the committee, Ann, Fiona and Lesley. I am sure the children and young people will remember the day for years to come.

This was followed by the usual very competitive street tug of war, which has also been a tradition for many years. Congratulations to Main Street for their fine win. I believe it was all down to their secret weapon Chloe!

Maplewell Road Development

I attended the Woodhouse Parish Council meeting when the developers gave a presentation on the way forward with the Maplewell Road site. I am sure you are aware this site was allowed for development by an Inspector on appeal.

The representatives requested information from people attending the meeting, their thoughts on the type of development they would like to see. Therefore, I have taken the opportunity to send my opinion after noting the information contained in the Inspector’s decision notice.

I note within the decision notice: ‘The appellant said the houses now before me were to address an unmet need in the village. To support this contention, the appellant drew upon the Housing Needs Survey undertaken in connection with the Woodhouse Neighbourhood Plan’.

I note the Housing Needs Survey analysis concluded after a detailed study into current housing needs, that a mixture of 1 to 5 bed houses and 2 and 3 bed bungalows were needed. Therefore, in my view, to meet the unmet need within the village a mix of houses and bungalows should be considered both for affordable and market properties.

This is a most sensitive area of the village, reference again made in the Inspector’s

decision notice. Therefore, I believe no 2.5 storey houses should be built on this site. I note that the current adjacent development on Maplewell Road has a mix of 2 storey houses and bungalows.

I will keep residents informed if and when a planning application has been received at Charnwood Borough Council, so that residents will be able to have their say during the consultation process. In my view, it is important that the developers build the right dwellings to meet the needs of the village and respect this sensitive area of the countryside.

Charnwood Lifeline

Charnwood Lifeline enables people to summon help at the press of a pendant, twenty-four hours a day 365 days per year. Pressing a pendant connects the person through to a Lifeline operator and over the phone they can assess whether to call a family member or friend to help the customer or, if it’s serious, the emergency services.

It is ideal for anyone needing extra support to maintain independence at home, whether you are elderly, frail or disabled. Lifeline is for anyone who wants to feel safe and secure knowing that help can be raised immediately. When Charnwood Lifeline gets a call from a new customer, they discuss the available options, send out an information pack which includes the sign-up paperwork for completion.

Currently a basic Lifeline package costs £56.16p per quarter, and there is a onetime installation cost of £15. All the equipment is hired, and the basic package includes the supply and fitting of Lifeline, a key safe for emergency access and the services of an on-call warden who can be called upon to check the customers welfare if the next of kin or emergency contacts are not available.

More information about Lifeline can be found by visiting the website at www. charnwood.gov.uk/lifeline

Hanging Basket Competition

People living in Charnwood Borough are invited to take part in a competition to find the best hanging basket to

mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. Residents across the Borough are invited to get creative and plant-up a hanging basket to celebrate the Coronation.

The prizes up for grabs are: first prize, an annual family membership for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS): Second and third prizes - £50 National Garden Gift Voucher.

People can be creative and may choose to plant their hanging basket with flowers, try specific colour schemes relating to the Coronation or consider planting up with vegetables.

The closing date for entries is Thursday August 31st 2023.

To enter: e-mail two photos of your hanging basket to charnwood@idverde.co.uk, include your name ,contact number, and address in the body of the e-mail. Mark your e-mail subject as Hanging Basket Competition. People can also send entries by post to: idverde Hanging Basket Competition, Derby Road Playing Fields, Cotton Way, Loughborough. LE11 5FJ. More information is available on Charnwood Borough Council’s website.

Queen’s Park Concerts

Queen’s Park in Loughborough will host a variety of exciting concerts for residents and visitors to attend this summer. The Bandstand location in Queen’s Park made a triumphant return in 2022 following the coronavirus pandemic where the concerts were well attended. Residents of all ages are invited to come down to the Bandstand and enjoy an afternoon of music on the following Sunday afternoons: 11th June, Loughborough Salvation

Army Band: 25th June,

Loughborough Concert Band: 2nd July, Melbourne Town Band: 16th July, Loughborough

Male Voice Choir: 23rd July, Charnwood Concert Band: 6th August, The New Orleans Hotshots Jazz Band.

All concerts commence at 2pm and are free to attend.

If you need to contact me on any issues please write to 10 Groby Lane, Newtown Linford, Leicester. LE6 0HH, e-mail cllr.david.snartt@charnwood. gov.uk or telephone 01530 244804.

Deborah Taylor

Borough Councillor for Anstey

T: 0116 2350126

E: cllr.deborah.taylor@charnwood.gov.uk

Local Elections

We are both delighted to be re-elected to represent Anstey at Charnwood Borough Council. We ran a good campaign but being 4 years older it was tiring! We knocked on all accessible front doors in Anstey to speak to as many residents as we could.

We really appreciate everyone who came out, supported us, and returned us as your local borough councillors with an increased majority from the 2019 elections. It does mean a lot to be so wellsupported and we thoroughly enjoyed our doorstep conversations with residents. We know there are residents who didn’t vote for us but please be assured that we are here to support and assist all the residents of Anstey.

We spoke to a few residents who were not happy about having to bring photo ID to the polling station but the overall percentage turnout has increased so it didn’t appear to affect residents’ ability to cast their vote.

There was an issue with the second polling station with residents arriving at the wrong station to vote, but this was only a handful of residents and we do hope that they managed to cast their vote at the correct polling station. We have also fed back about the issues with the second polling station, which we feel is not needed. Major problems included parking issues, inability to take dogs into the school grounds, and steps into the hall to vote.

The election results are shown below:

Paul Baines

Borough Councillor for Anstey

T: 07977 178869

E: cllr.paul.baines@charnwood.gov.uk

• Pressure on local services.

We will be providing regular updates in our monthly reports here, as well as on our website ( www.bradgateconservatives.org.uk ) and social media platforms.

The Nomads

After a whole host of complaints of dangerous and nuisance parking by residents on Cropston Road over numerous years, and despite attempts at discussions with The Nomads' owners to mitigate the problem, we have agreed with the Charnwood Police Commander, that cars parking in this way at future Nomads' events will now be ticketed.

We should say that we fully support the Club's youth and sports activities, but these should take into account the needs of local residents and driving/parking regulations more generally.

Deborah Taylor (Con) and Paul Baines (Con) are duly elected for Charnwood.

Turnout: 31.24%

Overall, the Conservative Party lost seats across the Charnwood area and this has resulted in there being no party with overall control of the council. Over the next few weeks there will be ongoing discussions across all elected members and their political parties to try and reach an agreement about who will run the council. As we submit our report, the council’s annual meeting has not taken place, so we are unable to provide any further updates on this matter, but we will be able to update you more in our report next month. There will be up to date news on our website and social media platforms.

We will now begin work on some of the many issues that were raised by residents we spoke to during the election campaign. These were very similar to the priorities that we campaigned on as we know our area very well.

The main issues were: -

• The inability to get a GP appointment in the village

• Speeding traffic

• Obstructive and dangerous parking

• Rubbish and dog fouling

Volunteering Opportunities

The NHS Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland (LLR) Integrated Care Board (ICB) has launched a volunteering campaign highlighting a range of opportunities for people to make a difference in local healthcare services.

There is more information about why people should get involved and how they can sign-up here:

https://leicesterleicestershireandrutlandhwp.uk/volunteering

Here is a taster of the many ways that you can get involved and make a difference:

• GP surgery Patient Participation Group (PPG)

• Patient and Carer Involvement Network

• Youth Advisory Board

• Young People Pathway

• Buggy driving at the hospitals

• Youthwatch

• Engagement and events

• Online Citizens Panel

• Public and Patient Involvement Assurance Group (PPIAG)

My Charnwood

Always wanted to know more about your area?

Charnwood Borough Council has a page informing you of most things you need to know about your area.

‘My Charnwood’ is a great tool on the Charnwood Borough Council website.

All you have to do is put in your postcode and choose your address from the dropdown. You will be taken to the webpage, which is built specifically for your address.

The webpage includes your bin collection days (so you know which days to put out your green and black bins - and your brown bin if you are a subscriber to the Garden Waste service).

You can also find out your Council Tax band, your Council representatives, and much more useful information.

Add ‘My Charnwood’ to your favourite list of webpages and you'll never miss a bin collection again!

Here is the link to My Charnwood:https://my.charnwood.gov.uk

Or scan this QR Code: -

Queen’s Park, Loughborough

Queen’s Park in Loughborough will host a variety of concerts for residents and visitors to attend this summer.

The bandstand concerts made a return in 2022 following the coronavirus pandemic, with well-attended performances from the Charnwood Symphonic Wind Orchestra, Loughborough Male Voice Choir, New Orleans Hotshots Jazz Band and more.

Residents of all ages are invited to come down to Queen’s Park and enjoy an afternoon of music on the following dates in 2023:

• Sunday 14th May - LSU Classical Concert Band

• Sunday 11th June - Loughborough Salvation Army Band

• Sunday 25th June - Loughborough Concert Band

• Sunday 2nd July - Melbourne Town Band

• Sunday 16th July - Loughborough Male Voice Choir

• Sunday 23rd July - Charnwood Concert Band

• Sunday 6th August - The New Orleans Hotshots Jazz Band

All concerts commence at 2pm and are free to attend.

Queen’s Park Café, situated next to Charnwood Museum, will be open from 9.30 am until 2.30 pm so visitors can get some refreshments before each performance.

Anstey Social Prescriber

We are fortunate to have a Social Prescriber, Rosie, who operates in our locality. If you or a loved one experience memory problems there is a new singing group starting in the village, supported by The Crown Inn. If you are interested all the details are on the flyer shown to the right.

If you have any issues or concerns, we are here to help.

Deborah and Paul

Scan here for updated news:

Pr oblems

With Your Feet?

Home Visits & Cropston Surgery

Ingrowing Toenails

Fungal Corns Callous Verrucae

Do you, or your loved one, experience memory problems, feel lonely or would benefit from a social, therapeutic group with singing and music to affect wellbeing? Come along to sing, and have fun with us at

Anstey Musical Memory Box

*Starting Tuesday 16th May*

Every 3rd Tuesday afternoon 2.00-3.30 in the pub!

Hosted, and supported by: The Crown Inn, 148 Bradgate Rd, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7FB

Led by Kyle Newman

welcome.

Deborah Taylor

County Councillor for Bradgate Division

T: 0116 2350126

E:

deborah.taylor@leics.gov.uk

It has been very hectic over the last month or so with the local elections. Council business slows down, whilst the campaigning continues. All the information about the local elections is included in our borough report in this month’s Your Local edition. Now the elections are over, the pace of work will pick up and committee meetings are back in full swing.

I did undertake some visits during April and May, including a trip to London to meet the Chancellor (more details below). On Friday 28th April I visited Maplewell Hall School, one of the County Council’s special schools that provides for pupils with moderate learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, and a range of social, emotional, and mental health difficulties. All pupils have an education, health, and care plan (EHCP).

It was a fantastic visit, and I was warmly welcomed by staff and pupils. The school was visited by Ofsted in February 2023, and I am delighted that they have received an Outstanding Rating in all areas.

I enjoyed watching King Charles III Coronation on TV on Saturday 6th May, and it was a very welcome break to sit down and relax after the elections. It was a fantastic day and a real honour for me personally to have witnessed the Coronation. My bunting was up, and nobody does tradition like the British do.

On the Sunday, I dropped into St Mary’s Church Rooms in Anstey to enjoy their sharing lunch and to see how the kitchen upgrade was getting along. These renovations have been supported by Cllr Baines and myself through our Member Grants Scheme at Charnwood Borough Council.

On Tuesday 9th May my husband and I headed down to London to attend the Royal Garden Party. We were

due to attend in 2020, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic.

It was an amazing day, a lovely afternoon tea and ice cream. We were also able to wander around Buckingham Palace gardens and lakes. We were able to see the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of

representing Coalville North.

Fair Funding

Leicestershire County Council continued the push for fair funding. This has taken a step forward after a positive meeting with the Chancellor in Downing Street.

County council chiefs and local MPs met Jeremy Hunt to set out how an outdated system means that Leicestershire receives less than half the money of the best funded areas.

Along with Council leader, Nick Rushton and cabinet member for resources, Lee Breckon, we travelled to 11 Downing Street on 25th April. We presented a pragmatic, temporary fix which would see Government put in an extra £350 million to level up 32 of the lowest funded councils.

Follow up meetings with local government minister, Lee Rowley, and Government officials are already being arranged so we can progress this request further.

If Leicestershire were funded at the average level for English councils, it would receive an extra £130m a year.

access to a range of guidance on issues such as social care, education, debt management and mental and physical health.

Leicestershire is one of twelve local authorities to secure a slice of a £12m pot of grant funding to transform the way services are delivered for families. The scheme will benefit families with 0–19-year-olds (or 25 for young people with special educational needs or disabilities).

The full details of the rollout of the family hubs for the county are still being finalised, but the physical hubs will be in existing buildings such as libraries, and children and family wellbeing centres, where staff will be specially trained to offer and signpost to the right support.

It is envisaged that information, advice, and guidance will also be available at the time families need it through outreach, a catchall website with a long-term ambition of adding virtual support such as video calling.

The county’s family hubs are set to be up and running by spring 2024 and I will be

Edinburgh at close quarters. We feel very honoured to have been invited and will cherish these memories forever.

During May, many councils hold their AGM, this includes elections for roles within their own political groups and membership of the different committees at the council.

I was delighted to be returned as the County Council's Deputy Leader for my third year and retain my Children and Families, Community Safety and Regulatory Services portfolio, a role I enjoy immensely.

I also welcome a new Cabinet Support Member to assist me with my very large workload, and I am delighted that Craig Smith will take on this role officially in July. Craig is the County Councillor

Family Hubs

Leicestershire County Council has received £1m of government investment to create new spaces across the County called ‘Family Hubs’.

'Family hubs' will be 'onestop-shops' where parents and carers can access family advice and support services in Leicestershire.

The hubs will be a mixture of physical and virtual spaces, where people can have easy

visiting the first family hub at the end of May in Coalville.

Wildflower Areas

The ambitious plan to transform roadside verges into wildflower areas across the county is continuing to gather pace.

Around 60 parish councils have so far signed up for the county council run scheme, which involves volunteers giving up their time to restore the verges, including sowing

native wildflower seeds and learning about the local wildlife within these important habitats.

The initiative, a partnership with local wildlife charities NatureSpot and British Hedgehog Preservation Society, aims to improve biodiversity and encourage wildlife, with verges being allowed to flourish between April and August, as wildflowers and grasses reach maturity and provide local species with food and habitat.

The initiative forms part of the council’s wider work to tackle climate change, including fresh proposals to make Leicestershire a net zero carbon county by 2045.

Expressions of interest for the 2023 scheme will be open from July 2023 to September 2023 this year. Parish councils interested in joining the scheme can contact the council’s environment team at: environmentteam@leics.gov.uk

The annual programme of grass cutting has started across Leicestershire and residents can check when their grass will be cut on the county council’s map: www. leicestershire.gov.uk/roadsand-travel/road-maintenance/ grass-cutting

Below is an extract of what has been achieved during 2022.

joined the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire at County Hall on 27 April 2023 for an awards ceremony to celebrate their achievements as our 2023 finalists.

This year’s red carpet’ awards evening and dinner was hosted by the LordLieutenant, Mike Kapur OBE and the four finalists shortlisted in each of the four categories were recognised as remarkable examples of dedication, going above and beyond to help others and for their outstanding personal achievements.

The category winners were: Young Person of CourageJoshua Bailey, who attends South Charnwood High School. Young Volunteer – Sofia Omar, who attends Crown Hills Community College.

Young Artist of the Year –Jessica Mawby, who attends Sir Jonathan North Girls' College. Young Leader – Clem Beardmore, who attends the Priory Belvoir Academy.

These young people were all considered for the overall award of the Lord-Lieutenant’s Young Person of the Year.

Congratulations go to Joshua Bailey who received the top prize of the evening, becoming the Lord-Lieutenant’s Young Person of the Year 2023.

This is a fantastic opportunity to thank our young people across the county for all their remarkable work and it is something that I am immensely proud to support.

If you have any issues or concerns, I’m here to help.

You are invited to a Morning with the Cancer Research UK East Midlands Team

Hear about the charity & the research being funded in the East Midlands

Visit our health awareness stands & meet the Senior Health Awareness Nurse

Quorn Village Hall,  64 Leicester Rd, Quorn, Loughborough LE12 8BB

Tuesday 27 June 2023

10am until 12.30pm

This event is free but please RSVP at rebecca.elphick@cancer.org.uk by 12 June as refreshments will be provided

24TH JUNE 2023 THE DUCK RACE RETURNS!

Lord-Lieutenant’s Young Person of Year 2023

A group of 16 remarkable young people from Leicester and Leicestershire along with their families and friends

Deborah

For updated news scan here

Duck sponsorship available from Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and the leadership team. Tickets also available on the day!

duckrace@40thleicester.org.uk

General Knowledge

Loughborough Flower Lovers' Club

Article by Lynne

Loughborough Flower Lovers’ Club –Would like to invite you to join us at our next meeting on June 15th at 7.309.30pm at Amherst School (formerly Our Ladies Convent School) Gray Street, Loughborough LE11 2DZ.

If you love flowers and would enjoy a relaxing evening watching North Midlands NAFAS area demonstrator Helen Chambers present her interpretation of “Best of BritishCelebrate Summer” then please do come along.

Helen is a British flower expert and award winning florist who specialises in promoting the British flower industry with her seasonal designs.

Visitors are always welcome to meetings which are held on the third Thursday of the month at the above venue. There is free, close, onsite parking and easy access to the ground floor hall. Take part in the raffle and at the end of the evening you could win one of the beautiful arrangements to take home. There is no need to book in advance just arrive on the night and for a small visitor fee of just £6, enjoy the evening’s demonstration.

Across 3. Chest bone (3)

7. Ceremonial procession (6)

8. Plant similar to the rhododendron (6)

9. Transparent optical device (4)

10. Disorder of the central nervous system characterised by convulsions (8)

11. Fortress (7)

13. ___ Cagney, Hollywood star who died in 1986 (5)

15. Steeple (5)

17. Gelatinous container with medicine inside (7)

21. Equestrian display (8)

22. Long arduous journey (4)

24. Large military unit (6)

25. Insect with large pincers at the rear of the abdomen (6)

26. Earth’s nearest star (3)

Down

1. Female pantomime character (4)

2. Cinnamon-yielding tree (6)

3. Official who is expected to ensure fair play (7)

4. Method of producing designs on cloth by covering with wax, then dyeing (5)

5. Equipment for taking pictures (6)

6. Outer casing of a marine organism (8)

9. Resinous substance used to make varnish, sealing wax, dyes, etc (3)

12. Merchant who brings goods into the country from abroad (8)

14. Troglodytes (7)

16. Countrified (6)

18. Surgical stitch (6)

19. Northern deer with very large antlers (3)

20. Public announcement of a proposed marriage (5)

23. Independent ruler or chieftain (4)

See page 14 for answers

At our last meeting in May, we were pleased to be able to present the local Air Ambulance Charity with a cheque for £1000 to support their fantastic work.

For more information or if you have any questions, either call 01509 853740 or email loughboroughflowerloversclub@ hotmail.com

We look forward to welcoming you.

Cropston Cricket Club

Article by Brad Peake

With the weather improving it must mean that the cricket season is just around the corner. Cropston Cricket Club will once again be running junior coaching sessions throughout the summer.

Sessions are open to both boys and girls. Our coaches are all ECB qualified and DBS checked. All equipment will be provided.

We are running teams in the Leicestershire Youth League at Under 10,11,13,15,17 & 19.

We also run three senior sides on a Saturday and one on a Sunday.

Please contact Brad Peake on 07777 649412 or Dave Jones on 07757 424561 for further details.

For those children aged 5 to 8 we are also registered with the England and Wales Cricket Board as an ‘All Stars Cricket Centre’. As such from mid-May we will be running weekly sessions providing an introduction to cricket in a fun environment. Further details on this can be found at www.allstarscricket.co.uk

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