January 2015 - Ashby & Packington Community Eye by OpenBox Promotions

ASHBY & PACKINGTON

COMMUNITY EYE

FREE MONTHLY LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, PUZZLES, COMPETITIONS & MORE

IN THE GARDEN WITH BEL

Growing Your Own Cut Flowers

ASHBY MUSEUM Latest News

ISSUE 2 - JANUARY 2015

EASY BURGERS

Plus Learn To Cook Sweet Potato Chips

HAVE YOU SEEN ONE OF THESE BEFORE?

Anstey War Service League Christmas 1944 Souvenir

SWADLINCOTE MAN WINS CHARITY CAR RAFFLE

SIR JOHN MOORE FOUNDATION Heart To Heart; Leicestershire’s Hidden Treasure

The Rotary Club Of Ashby De La Zouch Castle

IVANHOE COLLEGE Raises Over £500 For children’s Charity

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

WE WILL BEAT ANY QUOTE

Celebrating years of successful trading…

We are celebrating our 4th year in business as we head into 2015, Ashby Tile and Bathrooms has continued to grow and our new ranges continue to expand. The company has gone from strength to strength all thanks to the local support we receive. Founded by husband and wife team Paula and Dan Whitworth, Ashby Tile and Bathrooms has grown with the support of Daniel Cashmore our Business Development Manager.

A highly experienced team…

At Ashby Tile and Bathrooms we have a highly experienced team with over 25 years of experience in the industry between us, our friendly team will work with you to design, supply and fit a bathroom that you’ll love and that suits your budget. Offering a personalised 3D design service and a life time guarantee, we will beat any like for like quotation, so it’s well worth popping in to speak to a member of our team. At Ashby Tile and Bathrooms we are always on hand to offer advice to customers who are

looking for supply only, as well as those requesting a fully tailored service from planning to installation by our team of established local tradespeople.

Starting to dream of your new bathroom?

Then you need to visit our recently updated website at: www.ashbytileandbathrooms.co.uk This is a great starting point for your dream bathroom and contains links to all of our supplier ranges, so that you can browse online at leisure to see which designs not only suit your requirements, but also fulfil your dream of a relaxing, beautiful room. Also on our website there is further company information along with customer testimonials, a link to our Facebook page and a section where you can view all of our latest promotions. If you are stuck for ideas, looking for inspiration, wondering how to deal with an awkwardly shaped room, or if you’d just prefer to sit and have a chat about making your dream bathroom a reality, then drop into our showroom situated on the corner of Market Street and Lower Church Street in Ashby. We always have

a good range of fully tiled displays for you to view and we will be happy to give you helpful advice and work with you to plan your new bathroom. All bathroom surveys and quotations are FREE OF CHARGE with no obligation, so why not get in touch and start making your dream a reality?

Paula, Dan & Daniel

WELCOME

Welcome to your January Community Eye magazine

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY:

Ian Plimmer © ____________________________________

JOIN & FOLLOW US

b facebook.com/community_eye a twitter.com/community_eye ____________________________________

I’d like to say, isn’t it lovely that the weather is warming up but I’m writing this with a bitter wind howling round the office! Luckily Bel has written us a lovely article to make us feel more spring like!

and surrounding villages and this takes our total distribution up to over 55,000 magazines all hand delivered by our own distribution team. That’s an average of one magazine pushed through someone’s door every 50 seconds!

This month we are taking a closer look at one of our local historical sights The Sir John Moore Foundation in Appleby Magna which is a fabulous facility. We also have our regular competitions for you and some nice recipes for you to try.

If you’d like to be part of this amazing statistic we’d love to hear from you and we even offer free advert design. Why not make 2015 the year you push your business and start advertising with us. Still not convinced? Have a look at the testimonials on our website!

We are also launching our 9th community magazine in Measham

serving with H.M Forces at home and overseas. It also has some beautiful illustrations, a story and a poem to keep the soldiers busy and remind them of home. For me one of the most wonderful additions to this book are the letters from the people of Anstey to the serving soldiers. Messages from the Parish Council, Police Force, Fire Service, WI and Schools all serve to make this a very personal piece. Alice Smart writes as an Anstey mother and G. Greatorex as an Anstey Wife. Two beautiful letters are written from Betty Thurman and Michael Martin of Latimer Street School and it would be interesting to see if they or their relatives still live in Anstey.

EDITOR

MIRIAM BENTLEY T: 0800 6446150 E: editor@openboxpromotions.co.uk

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TERESA FREARSON M: 07429043217 E: teresa@openboxpromotions.co.uk DAWN HARRIS T: 0800 6446150 E: dawn@openboxpromotions.co.uk

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ANDREW LEWIS M: 07504634838 E: andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk

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NEXT ISSUE OUT

We’ve all had, or will have the unenviable task of going through a deceased relative’s paperwork. It can be upsetting and disheartening, especially if they never liked to throw anything away! But one lucky Leicestershire resident recently discovered a gem whilst looking through her Uncles paperwork. Janet Elverstone and her husband Lewis, called me up to see if I’d like to come and look at a war artefact

DEADLINE DATE: 14th February 2015 DELIVERY DATE: 21st February 2015

It’s a beautifully preserved, postcard sized book sent to Arch when he was out in India from the Anstey War Service League. Apparently every serving officer from Anstey was sent one of these little books for Christmas in 1944. The book contains lists of all the Anstey men and women

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Deadline and delivery dates are subject to change depending on how far we are ahead or behind. ____________________________________ The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the original advertisers & contributors and do not necessarily represent Community Eye or Open Box Promotions Ltd. Open Box Promotions Ltd reserves the right to amend or refuse to publish articles or adverts submitted for publication. 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. To see full terms & conditions visit www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/terms

they’d discovered. Belonging to her uncle Arch. Barker who served in the Chindits, this artefact has got me quite excited!

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Please get in touch if you have a link to this publication or if you know if anything like this was sent out by other Leicestershire villages? We’d be really interested to hear from relatives of those who contributed to the book and also if you have a copy of it too. If you’d like further information about the book or a list of all those who contributed please do get in touch and I’ll send you some more images of the pages. I can be contacted via editor@openboxpromotions.co.uk or 0800 6446 150 or by post to 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe LE9 2HQ. I’ll bring you an update if I hear from anyone, if not I assume this is a very rare find indeed! Well done Uncle Arch for keeping it in such good condition and bringing it all the way back from India for us to enjoy!

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To win this amazing prize can you answer the following What year was The Field Head originally built? What was the original building prior to the hotel?

Thanks to The Fieldhead Hotel in Markfield who have donated this amazing prize. Included in the prize: 3 Course dinner for two on the 14th February with entertainment Bottle of Champagne Over night accommodation Full English Breakfast

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LOCAL NEWS

THE ROTARY CLUB OF ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH CASTLE

SWADLINCOTE MAN WINS CHARITY CAR RAFFLE The Rotary Club of Ashby de la Zouch Castle are delighted to announce the winner of this years “win a brand new car” raffle which was drawn by former England Ashes winning cricketer, Matthew Hoggard at the Ashby Christmas Event on 29th November. A local man from Acresford, near Swadlincote was the lucky winner of the brand new VW Move Up! car from Arthur Prince Volkswagen in Loughborough, having bought his ticket at the Measham Festival. Matthew pulled the winning ticket out just after 14:30 in front of a bumper crowd including local press and then made the phone call to congratulate the lucky winner. The Rotary Club of Ashby de la Zouch Castle have been busy selling raffle tickets over the last 12 months for this competition with the intention of raising significant funds for Loughborough based children’s hospice, Rainbows. The idea of a car raffle was the brainchild of two of the Rotary Clubs newest members, Alan Booth and Mike Craggs. They set about coming up with a major new fundraising venture that would not only support the fantastic work of local charity Rainbows but would also raise some funds for the Rotary Club to be able to use on a number of smaller local charitable causes.

Once Matthew, who is a patron of Rainbows, had drawn the winning ticket, President Elect of Ashby Castle Rotary Club, Ray Harriman was delighted to hand over a cheque for £5000 to Matthew and Jennifer Leach who is Community Fundraiser for Rainbows. In addition to this, a further £1000 has been raised which the Rotary Club will be using to distribute to a number of local charities over the next 12 months. Alan Booth spoke of his pride at seeing the successful conclusion to this event saying “We knew we were being ambitious when we took on this initiative last year but we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of local people. Thanks to the enthusiasm of our fellow club members we attended 24 events over the last 12 months and were delighted by the reaction we got. We want to say a big ‘thank you’ on behalf of the club to everyone who bought a ticket or put a donation in our bucket. We are sorry that they couldn’t all be winners but we want everyone to know just how much the Club value their support”. Interested in finding out more about Rotary? If you would like to come along to the Rotary Club of Ashby de la Zouch Castle please contact our secretary Chris Knight at cjcjknight@ supanet.com or visit www.ribi.org

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as well as being sent to the council. Browsing your own postcode can be interesting, as you soon learn what the persistent problems are in your area, and whether or not they are being fixed. There's also the opportunity to discuss individual reports in the comments section.

While most of us know that the council are responsible for fixing these things, we may not know which council, let along which department in which council. With FixMyStreet, all you have to do is locate the problem on a map, and select a category: the site then sends it off to the right place to get it fixed.

FixMyStreet comes from the UK notfor-profit organisation mySociety, and is one of its longest-running and mostused services. It is just one of several projects aimed at making it easier for citizens to get things changed in their own community. So, next time you see something that needs fixing, be it a broken paving slab or a flickering streetlight, all you need to remember is FixMyStreet.com.

All reports are published on the site,

FR ERIK VARDEN - GUEST CELEBRANT AT GRACE DIEU MANOR SCHOOL MASS Grace Dieu marked the start of a New Year and new Term as they held a whole School Mass with Father Eric Varden, a guest Celebrant and Superior at Mount Saint Bernard Abbey, along with School Chaplain Father Denis Labartette. A powerful, yet reflective service kept the children engaged and interested. Headmaster, Mr Peter Fisher, commented; “Grace Dieu is a Catholic School with its education rooted its faith. It was wonderful for our pupils to celebrate Mass with Father Erik who spoke about The Feast of Epiphany in the context of gifts generously given and gifts graciously received, with Jesus being a wonderful gift to us all.”

PHOTO: Left to right - Poppy Cross, Peter Fisher, Fr Erik, Fr Denis, Victoria McDermott, Fr Denis, Jack Harrison and Jemima Harrison

VENTURE THEATRE NEWS Our next production will be The 39 Steps which runs Thursday 26th – Saturday 28th February and Wednesday 4th – Saturday 7th March. Many of you will be familiar with this classic John Buchan thriller but did you know there was a comedy version? Adapted by Patrick Barlow, it is Broadway’s longest running comedy. When it recently became available for amateur productions for the first time, Ashby Dramatic Society couldn’t wait to give it a go! The production is not without its challenges for Director, Cast and Crew. Over 130 zany characters are portrayed by only four actors; there is an on-stage plane crash, a missing finger, a nighttime chase over the Scottish moors and an escape from a moving train as it crosses the Forth Rail Bridge! A small contribution to the solution has been

made by local community heritage group, Pudding Bag Productions, who have produced a handful of very short film clips which will be featured during the performance. However, the main genius comes from the set designers and constructors and, of course, our brilliant cast! This is one not to be missed. Tickets are available, as usual, from Ashby Tourist Information Centre, North Street, 01530 411767.

UPDATE FROM JOHN COXON As we see out 2014, looking forward in 2015, we will see further improvements happening in the town. January sees the second phase of improvements to our Cemetery with a £40,000 footpath and roadway improvements. The Loudon Memorial up-lighting scheme is progressing, which will see the return of the lighting up of the Loudon Memorial, similar to as it used to be. I continue to have talks through the Town Council with the NHS regarding the future of Ashby Hospital. The Bath Grounds footpath project, which I supported, has received a boost through a grant through the District Councils 20 for 7 projects, where awards were given to projects to the value of £20,000 towards the footpath, which will require further funding to complete. The Town Council has supported the project and has also obtained quotations for the works. As a district member, I have given this my backing. The Town Council has also expressed an interest in acquiring, for the town, the school playing field on Prior Park Road, which the County Council is the owner and may be coming surplus

to requirements. I felt by bringing a motion before the Town Council that this land needs to be in public use and open space for the town’s enjoyment and use. Coming up events include March, sees the Ashby 20 road race that has become a very important event and known nationally. April 25th will bring a new event. A Town Crier competition, with criers from around the country taking part. This will take place in Brook Street. Summer attractions will again include the famous Jim’s Tractor Run which will be on the Bath Grounds after the road run, led through the town by tractor Jim, which I will also be taking part again this year. Lots of further events will take place in the town during 2015, instigated by your Town Council.

LOCAL NEWS

EASY BURGERS INGREDIENTS

he Great War display will remain in place up to the end of February. We have had many visitors to this impressive display so if you haven’t yet been, do come along while there is still chance. We are grateful to Ashby Rotary Club for donating its archives, from the foundation to the present day, and Museum volunteers are now busy cataloguing everything. We are also pleased to have received, recently, individual loans and donations to enhance our collections.

March 10th – The Church – Religious Houses and Pilgrimage March 17th – The Battle of Bosworth and the end of the Medieval period You can attend the whole course or come to individual lectures; £6 per lecture or £30 for the whole course. If you would like to book a place please contact the Museum on 01530 560090 or email Peter on peter.liddle@gmail. com or call him on 01162214508. The next Kids’ Club is 7th February and is at the new time of 11 till 2.

Peter Liddle is continuing his successful series of talks with ‘The Archaeology of Medieval Leicestershire and Rutland’. The next course will begin on Tuesday February 3rd and continue on successive Tuesdays (with a break for half term), from 11a.m – 1p.m, until March 17th.

‘From the Romans to the Renaissance and from the Suffragettes to the Stone age.’ Come join us at the Kids’ History Club and explore our rich history though artefacts, art and the garments of the past. Every first Saturday of the month.’ Free to all primary school children, who must be accompanied by a parent or carer.

February 3rd – Medieval villages & fields February 10th – Medieval Leicester, market towns and industry February 17th – Half term – no lecture February 24th – Castles & Manor Houses March 3rd – The Church: Parish churches and chapels

We are always happy to welcome new volunteers, singly or in pairs, and if you have a couple of hours to spare once a fortnight and would like to help out in our award-winning Museum please get in touch with us on the above telephone number.

ASHBY COTTAGE HOSPITAL

photographs are being scanned and uploaded onto our website.

Ashby Cottage Hospital is in the news at present - unfortunately for the wrong reasons. During March and April Ashby Museum will put on a display highlighting the hospital's history, highlighting its importance for over 100 years to the local area. Documents and artefacts relating to its story will be exhibited in the Loudoun Gallery. Do come along and have a look. The last two months have seen Museum staff concentrating on sorting out sections of the archives - cleaning and cataloguing those which have waited for too long to be added to our growing database. Two helpers are upgrading the Staunton Harold records, so lovingly collected by the late Mrs. Dorothy Watson, while the documents we have on Netherseal have now been properly archived. The huge Community Archive is steadily being put on to the computer database and yet more of our

Unfortunately, one or two of our longstanding custodians have had to call it a day and we are actively looking for people willing to give up a couple of hours a fortnight to man the front of house. We do not want to have to close on certain days, as we pride ourselves on being open the whole year round throughout each working week. Do get in touch if you think you can help.

FRIENDS OF ASHBY MUSEUM

The Friends of Ashby Museum would like to invite you to a Folk Entertainment at Packington Memorial Hall on Saturday 14th February at 7.30. Music by the well-known group, The Travelling People. Light supper. Licensed bar available. Tickets £10 from the museum. All proceeds to support the work of the museum.

Charity Music Evening

Friday 6th February 2015 at 7:30pm Ashby School Sixth Form Centre

Featuring Ashby School Big Band, Jade Lamey, Concordia Tickets £10.00, From Hospice Hope & Toxic Cherry, Market Street 07976 268 339 - info@hospicehope.org.uk Licensed Bar and raffle on the night

• 500g pack lean minced beef • 1 tsp mild chilli powder • 4 slices mild cheddar, if you want to make cheeseburgers • For the buns and toppings 4 burger buns • choice of lettuce, cucumber, gherkin, tomato and red onion ketchup or mayonnaise, or both

METHOD

Put the meat in a mixing bowl, then sprinkle over the chilli powder and a little salt and pepper. Mix well with your hands or use a fork. The mild chilli powder gives the meat it added flavour without making too spicy.

Divide the mixture into 4 equal pieces, then shape with your t hands into round burgers abou the width of the buns, making sure you compact the meat down well.

Fry the burgers in a hot pan turning them carefully. Take care as hot fat from the meat may spit a little. If you want to make cheeseburgers, put a slice of cheese on top of the burgers when you turn them over and let s. it melt while the other side cook Meanwhile, prepare the toppings of your choice. Separate the lettuce into leaves. Then, using a sharp knife, thinly slice the tomato, cucumber and gherkin on a separate board to the one you prepared the burgers on. Peel and finely chop the red onion. Spread a little mayonnaise or ketchup - or both if you like onto the buns, then top with your burgers and salads of your choice, followed by the remaining half bun.

SWEET POTATO CHIPS INGREDIENTS

• 2 medium sweet potatoes • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder • 1/2 teaspoon paprika • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

METHOD

• Preheat oven to 220C. Lightly coat a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. Scrub potatoes and cut lengthwise into quarters. Cut

each quarter lengthwise into four wedges. Arrange potatoes in a single layer in pan. Coat lightly with cooking spray. • Combine salt, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and pepper in a small bowl; sprinkle over potatoes. • Bake for 20 minutes or until brown and tender, turning once . One of my personal favourites! Extra tasty and good for the diet!

COMPETITION WINNERS Congratulations to Alex Clarke winning the Amazon Kindle and Celia Skellett winning the panto tickets. We hope both of you enjoyed your prizes.

8 LOCAL YOUR LOCAL RATBY NEWS JAN 2014.qxp_Layout 1 09/01/2015 11:20 Page 10

It’s not often I get a phone call regarding a potential story that hooks me instantly, but this is a rare one that did! Deana Wildgoose, the manager for the Sir John Moore Foundation called me up before Christmas to see if I’d be interested in featuring an article showcasing the fantastic foundation and everything they have to offer, I’m sure you’ll agree it would have been a shame to let this article slip past!

Heart to heart; Leicestershire's Hidden Treasure Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century designed a building in Leicestershire that is still in use today – where is it? Where can you go to school; attend film club; take part in an archaeological dig; perform at a band night and hold your wedding? The answer? Appleby Magna! In the heart of the Leicestershire countryside lies a magnificent building commissioned by Sir John Moore in 1697. Sir John was born in Appleby. He was a passionate supporter of emancipation through education and good health and he was the second son of the squire of Appleby. Sir John made his own way in the world, amassing a fortune by trading lead. He was Lord Mayor of London in 1681, and a Master of the Grocers Company. He was a dedicated philanthropist and his own financial success was shared for the benefit of his fellow citizens. He made substantial investments in his home village to better the heart mind and soul of “the gentlemen of all England”, by building the Sir John Moore School in Appleby and in Christ's Hospital in London; both commissions for his good friend Sir Christopher Wren. Sir John and Lady Moore did not have children and the building in Appleby was put into the care of a family led charitable foundation. Descendants of Sir John and Lady Moore have always served as

Trustees. The beating heart of Sir Johns legacy is as alive today, as it was in 1697. The Trustees now as in 1697 are accountable for ensuring the success of the building as an environment that inspires learning and is maintained in excellent order. In 2004 the Trustees secured £2million in grants and donations to restore the building for the next generation of children. The refurbishment of this Grade 1 listed building ensured all three floors were brought back into use. Stepping through the ironwork gates is a step into the 17th Century. You will find a 21st century Village School. 140 pupils are taking their first steps into an education that parents, the village and Ofsted love. The ground floor is dedicated to the village primary school, as well as the larger rooms on the second floor and the majority of the grounds, providing outdoor space to play and compete. In order to enable every child to realise their potential and take up citizenship the Trustees must to continue to look after the building. A museum showcasing Victorian education is on the top floor and two elegant flats for rent, one with a rooftop garden. The original stables are converted to create a vibrant space that houses the foundation office; the hub of the charity’s operations. Adjacent to the stables is a bijou Coffee Shop with stately outside

seating. In the cellars is a licenced bar and recording studio for hire. One three-story wing is let as office space for local businesses with their own separate access. Both the regular upkeep and planned maintenance works require investment. The small team of Foundation staff generate the income that helps to sustain this inspirational and aspirational place. A big part of this is sharing the space with families to hold significant events, parties, weddings and celebrations. Holding a wedding or a party at Sir John Moore is affordable and grand. This unique venue delivers bespoke packages at completive rates. The enjoyment of guests who fall in love with this place makes a huge contribution to maintaining the building and site. 2014 marked ten years of success from our 2004 restoration. One thing is for sure, if Sir John Moore were here today he would be pretty proud that his legacy continues today, as innovative as it was over 300 years ago, to support and inspire all of us. We need at least £20,000 a year simply to maintain the fabric of this historic building. If you are inspired by our story, you can help by sharing your celebration with us in this unique venue: simply contact the office on 01530 273629 or email deana.sirjohnmoore@gmail.com

After reading the article I have done some research of my own and discovered that there is much more the Foundation offers Leicestershire. This is merely a taster and it’s certainly wet my appetite! If you want to find out more about this amazing place go to www.sirjohnmoore.org.uk. We hope to bring you more on 21st century education at Sir John Moore and 21st century inspiration from internationally celebrated educationalists who are as inspired as I am by what's happening here

9 LOCAL ADVERTISERS Advertisement On Wednesday 5th December, 2014 to have the whole of Year 5 were very fortunate a company come into school, known Ancient as ‘Portals to the Past,’ to learn even more about the amazing Greeks – which has been our topic for this part of the Autumn term. It was a superb day, full of exciting and interesting facts and this is what some of the pupils from Venus class had to say about when we say we will, do the job the glazing is misted up we can replace that I get from doing a good job but It’s it! been a crazy few months for customer requires and leave their the glass at a fraction of the cost of Cloudy2Clear Windows. The also it makes good business sense. I cold morning in window, curious of frame, the day house would bring. asLots as clean a whistle. I often get get a huge amount of business from newwere in anywith typewhat company specialises It was a which freezing anda we of us made

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After break, we re-told the myth of the Minotaur, where we managed to practice our acting skills. Broken or Damaged Windows? This version of our own made us giggle a lot! We were then split back into our two classes to have a Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks? go at some Ancient Greek activities. One of these was to put together a range of different sized cut Want The Latest Energy Saving Glass? out pieces of wood to make a jigsaw and the other was to try a game of Petteia, which lots of us All Glazing Backed By Our became very competitive at…even Miss Stretton and Mrs. Oliver!

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For the last part of our day in the afternoon, we were in training to be super, heroic Greek warriors. Priority Freephone First was a lesson in the protective armour they wore, followed by several marching orders and formations we got into, pretending we were they very best Greek army of all! Once we had got the www.cloudy2clear.com hang of that, we played a game called ‘knocking down the wall of Troy,’ before the final part of ...we make saving the day…a ‘battle to the end’ between Achilles Jake (Venus) and Nathan (Mercury). Can you all money perfectly clear... remember who won?

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back at from customers on and with a new 5 year itguarantee. repairing which are with excitement friends and family of people I’ve our waywindows to school, buzzing because was the Greekcomments activity day Ratby Primary how they really didn’t expect that sort done But it’s not just about saving people steamed up, broken or damaged work for, which just goes to School. Many were chuckling on their way because we had to dress up as an Ancient Greek and money, although that obviously helps. of service which, in a way, is very sad show how much a little bit of effort is by replacing the panes – not the comehas to school dressed were amazing from everyone! They were all so for the service industry as aunique whole.’ Manyoutfits tradespeople have struggled frames grown rapidly aslike one (the appreciated.’ Ashby and since Year last year and I honestly homeowners take advantage of First, both So, if your windows are steamed up, and well thought through!) 5 classes met infeel the hall toCloudy2Clear see a ratherservice strange fellow the surrounding area and is that This during theAlex; good our timesvisitor a minority their services. broken or damaged give Martyn a call dressed in what looked like a tunic? was and eager Greek expert for Martyn the day perhaps didn’t focus on customer finding that his approach is a major Managing Director Martyn Kemp for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 andthat heit’s started off service. with giving ofasbackground was so ‘The fascinating. care much as they information should have on Greece feels all about ‘Our us lots factor inthat his success. truth is that and he’ll be happy to help! done. We make sure turn upwho despite product is simple.the If your double it’s not just the personal satisfaction This included many adventures of Alexander thewe Great, being a great leader and conquering many countries, was killed by one tiny mosquito! Many of us were in wonder at all of the things he was explaining to us…what a brilliant start to the day! Next, we had a mind-boggling quiz to complete where we had to search for the answers in groups, which was completed just in time! We now know even more facts, like a Greek person who lived in a barrel! Don’t replace the Frames... just the Panes!

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GARDENING

GROWING YOUR OWN CUT FLOWERS

t this time of year the shiny gardening catalogues start to drop through the letterbox to my delight and the local stores have colourful stands of seeds to tempt us, reminding us that spring is not far away. Having a beautifully garden is a joy, but being able to bring some of the colour inside is a real treat too. Whether it’s a few Sunflowers, a bunch of fragrant sweet peas or a cottage garden style posy, a little living colour on the kitchen table or mantle piece can keep you in touch with nature when you don’t have the time or inclination to be outside.

Dahlias & Grasses

Rudbeckia & Snap Dragons

We all have a few bare patches in a border or veg plot, space for a grow bag or two and a few pots knocking about which we could utilise for growing cut flowers, it’s a very satisfying and it’s easy to do too. For a quick result seeds, bulbs & tubers are the answer. They are also cheap and easy to find. Flowers are key for any arrangement but I also like to add a bit of foliage and structure if I can. Sowing the seeds is really simple, follow the instructions on the packet ensuring that you’ve a window sill or greenhouse available to start them off and protect them from frost at first. Don’t start too soon and watch that they are watered just enough for their needs. I use seed trays and cell trays to get mine going and then plant them out later but they can be sown directly into pots or growbags.

Zinnias, Dahlias & Nigella

Hardy Annuals

You can’t go wrong with Sunflowers, Sweet peas, Larkspur and Corn flowers; these are all hardy and can be started off quite early as they can cope with cold temperatures. Sown in March they’ll flower well in the summer and will give plenty of blooms as long as they are deadheaded to stop them going to seed. For foliage try a patch of annual ornamental grasses, herbs like Dill or Euphorbia for a limey zing. I also snip foliage from the herbs and perennial grasses in my garden to add to bunches.

Half-hardy annuals

To add a bit more glamour to a posy, try some Half-hardy annuals. As the name suggests these aren’t fully hardy so they must be protected from frost. Sowing them later in the spring helps with this. I like Zinnias, Cosmos and Rudbeckia for their bright & bold blooms.

Biennials

Biennials take an extra 12 months to get to flowering stage. Sown in the summer of one year they will flower in the spring-summer of the next, examples are Sweet Williams, Stocks, Wall flowers, Honesty and Foxgloves. These are best in the ground in a spare patch or mixed in to the border. Helpfully bunches of young wall flower plants can be bought from local markets in the autumn and popped in any gaps in the garden to save the hassle of growing your own.

Bulbs & tubers

Dahlias are a must for late summerautumn colour. Take your pick from a mass of colours and forms and keep them frost free for a reliable abundance of flowers to grace your home. Lilies, Alliums and Gladioli are worth a try too although they generally only give one flower spike per bulb. Be sure to buy good quality firm bulbs to get good results. Most cut flowers will need staking or some support to keep them upright and they will need to be deadheaded regularly to keep them flowering well throughout the summer. It’s really rewarding to see a lovely bunch of flowers all from you own efforts so I urge you to have a go this year. My herb bed is due an overhaul so next month I’ll be looking at how to split, trim and propagate herbs and I’ll be adding new plants to the bed to give a year-round supply for the kitchen. Whether you need help creating your own cut flower garden, your planting needs a revamp, or you’re faced with a blank canvas, I offer a tailor made service from consultations to full garden rejuvenation projects. Give me a call to discuss your requirements or check out my website for more details. Tel. 07506 750250 www.belgrierson.co.uk

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LOCAL NEWS

LABOUR CANDIDATE

NHS RESPONSE LETTER

JAMIE MCMAHON M: 01530 277825 E: jamie@labournwl.org.uk

SUBMITTED BY MP ANDREW BRIDGEN

ASHBY HOSPITAL NHS NEEDS TO KEEP COMMITMENTS ON BUILDING

I like many others have been campaigning hard on the future of Ashby Hospital. We’ve come a long way but last month I called for the NHS to put into practice commitments to ensure Ashby Hospital’s building is put to good use following its sad proposed closure. Recently we’ve heard the NHS reject plans for Ashby Hospital to be used by Hospice Hope and I called on the NHS to make sure the need for the building to be used for the benefit of local people is at the front of their minds when deciding what to do with the building. This call follows on from the campaign I launched as soon as the Hospital’s future appeared under threat. I called for services such as physiotherapy and outpatients currently provided at Ashby Hospital to remain well provided for in Ashby, with no gaps, for the care in the community to be proven to work and for the building to be put to good use if closed. While it’s important the NHS gets good value for money to invest in local services it’s also important this historic building, that matters a great deal too local people, isn’t simply sold to highest bidder with no regard for its future use. We received reassurances

during the summer that the NHS would consider the importance of the building to local people when deciding its future use and it’s important the NHS keeps to that promise. Nine months ago I launched my campaign to protect health services in Ashby following news that the Hospital was under threat. We’ve come a long way with outpatients protected and more evidence presented to prove the community care works. But I want to keep the pressure up on the NHS to ensure the importance of the building is at the forefront of the NHS’ minds when they decided what will happen to this much loved building.

SNIBSTON CLOSURE DECISION CONDEMNED The decision of the County Council to proceed to close Snibston Discovery Museum has been met with much condemnation locally. However, a long running campaign by the Friends of Snibston and local politicians to save the site won’t stop following the decision of the County Council Cabinet to proceed to closure. Despite not yet having full plans in place for the site the Cabinet report asks officers to go ahead and plan for closure. The Cabinet are rejecting proposals to take over the site by the Friends of Snibston, claiming they are not ready. The report by the Tory Cabinet represents a disappointing decision for those who have been campaigning to save Snibston. However the campaign will continue. The Conservative plan to plough on with the closure of Snibston at the detriment of our local area is terrible news. However my resolve in fighting to save Snibston won’t weaken. The campaign to save Snibston has been

In response to the Labour Parliamentary Candidates letter in the last publication, I would firstly state that this Government has always been clear that it is committed to protecting the NHS and invest an extra £12.7 billion in the service. The Government has guaranteed that it will always provide treatment free, regardless of ability to pay and we will not privatise the NHS, pledging to increase the budget in real terms throughout the next Parliament. You are correct in that I did support the reorganisation of the NHS and I made my reasons for doing so clear at the time. As you were not connected to North West Leicestershire at that time, I will again state my reasoning. During Labour’s term in office, productively in the NHS fell. Given the financial predicament Labour left the Coalition Government with a record budget deficit and the many challenges facing the NHS, it was clear the existing system which was not working effectively for both patients and the taxpayer, and it needed to change. Because of our changes, the NHS has increased its productivity by 2.7% meaning taxpayers and patients are getting more for their money. In reducing the bureaucracy in the NHS, the Government saved £5 billion in this Parliament. Due to this there are over 8,000 more doctors, 2,500 more nurses, 20,000 fewer NHS administrators and 850,000 more operations being delivered each year compared to 2010. Regarding the use of private providers in the delivery of NHS services, this is not a new concept. The Government’s health reforms do not favour any particular type or

A&E EXPERIENCES WORST WEEKS

loud and clear - people right across Leicestershire want Snibston saved. Saving Snibston is not only what people want but it’s also vital for the local economy. Snibston brings over £4m into the Coalville economy every year. Yet the County Council claim closing Snibston Discovery Museum will have no significant impact on the social, economic or environmental well-being of the County area. I do not think there is anyone living in Coalville believes that to be true. The importance of Snibston to the local area and the fantastic array of collections on display were clear to Labour’s Shadow Museum Minister when I brought her to see Snibston in November. Sadly the County Council are determined to put Snibston to the sword before Labour can implement plans to redistribute heritage spend out of London if we win Government in May.

I’m increasingly worried about the growing crisis in our Accident and Emergency departments. That’s why I have called for action following the worst figures for Accident and Emergency since records began. Data showed fewer than 90% of patients were seen within four hours in the seven days up to December 2014. Major units particularly struggled, with just six out of 140 meeting the target to see 95% within four hours. Residents in North West Leicestershire will be particularly worried with all local A&E Departments missing the target. Leicester, Derby, Burton and Nottingham A&E Departments all missed the 95%, with Leicester Royal only seeing 69.4% of patents in December. The increase in A&E waiting times has been caused by cuts to social care budgets and the lack of access to GP appointments means more people are forced to attend A&E. We need action to reverse this slide. The staff in our NHS work incredibly hard but resources are being stretched to breaking point.

ownership of provider. They preclude the Department of Health, NHS England and Monitor from pursuing policies which would seek to increase the market share of, for example, independent providers. It is for local NHS commissioners to decide, not the Government, which providers - whether from the public, private or voluntary sectors - can best meet the needs of their patients and deliver high quality care. Any use of private or other types of provider will be a result of decisions by commissioners taken in the best interests of their patients, never as an end in itself. With local Doctors now in charge of commissioning, use of the private sector has slowed significantly. I would draw your attention to comments made by Dr Michael Dixon, President NHS Clinical Commissioners and Chair of the NHS Alliance who stated ‘As doctors seeking to ensure the best possible health services for our patients, we are extremely concerned about the proposals announced this week by Shadow Health Secretary Andy Burnham. They would put patients and services at great risk’ adding that it was ‘absolutely untrue’ to suggest there was any kind of privatisation agenda within CCGs – or that they are forced to contract out for every service. I would just add that you cannot have a strong NHS without a strong economy and throughout Labour’s period in opposition, your Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls has consistently made the wrong calls when it comes to borrowing, unemployment and public spending. Had he been Chancellor the Country, we would be facing more borrowing, more debt and less funding for our NHS. This is the case in Labour run NHS Wales which has cut spending by 8% resulting in A&E targets that haven’t been met in five years and urgent cancer waiting list targets that have not been met for six years.

SAD NEWS AS MPS FAIL TO HEED LABOUR’S CALL TO SCRAP THE BEDROOM TAX Locally 584 people have been hit by the Bedroom Tax. That’s why I was disappointment in December when MPs failed to back Labour’s attempt to scrap the Bedroom Tax by Christmas. Sadly Tory and Lib Dem MPs voted together to ensure the unfair Bedroom Tax remains. Since the Bedroom Tax was introduced around half a million low-income households have been forced to find on average £700 a year. Two thirds of the households affected include a person with a disability and the tax also hits 60,000 carers. The government’s own independent evaluation of the policy recently reported that just 4.5 per cent of affected tenants were able to move to smaller accommodation within the social sector.

LOCAL NEWS

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

COUNCILLOR

M: 01530 417736 E: andrew.bridgen.mp@parliament.uk

M: 07773 341531 E: mikewyatt1@hotmail.co.uk

ANDREW BRIDGEN

s we look back on the year, the residents of North West Leicestershire can be rightly proud of the contribution we are making towards the economic growth in the UK which is recognised as being the fastest growing economy in the G20. As I have said before, this district is delivering one of the fastest growth rates outside London and the South East. Unemployment has tumbled over the past year with over 400 more people now in work and paying taxes compared to this time last year and now stands at 1.6%. I believe now is the time for North West Leicestershire to get more reward for the contribution it makes towards our Country. I have long argued that our District and County have historically been left behind when it comes to funding our Council’s and our public services. Take Education for instance: I appeared very recently on the ITV Lobby programme debating with Birmingham MP Jack Dromey talking about Government funding for local Councils. During my research I discovered that not only is Central Government funding for Birmingham three times per head what it is in Leicestershire but every pupil in Birmingham has £1,600 more spent on their Education than those in Leicestershire. The reason for this has been historic as more funds under the previous Government went to cities than to counties. However to me it is completely wrong how the gap has been allowed to escalate in this way. My long argument against this did meet with some success earlier this when the County won an extra £242 per pupil in funding to narrow the gap and against Labour MP’s in cities arguing that they should have had the money.

MP’s in January to argue for fairer funding for our Fire Services, another case of our county receiving a poor settlement over many years and has left us bumping along the bottom national league table. The same goes for the Police and the County Council and I will be making arguments on their behalf that we should not be punished for good management and efficiency. Our increase in Education funding has shown what can be achieved and I am determined that we shall get our share of resources. As I look back on the Parliamentary year I am pleased that two of the issues I have led campaigns on have resulted in action by the Government. Firstly there was the amendment to the deregulation bill that will see the decriminalisation of nonpayment of the TV Licence. It is a scandal that people, a disproportionate number of whom are mother’s to young children are being sent to prison for this. Secondly is the scrapping of Air Passenger Duty for Children, a measure which will help families who wish to go abroad for their holiday, indeed for 1st May next year 3 million children will fly tax free and from 2016, 4.5 million under 16 will benefit. Going forward I will be stepping up efforts to reopen the National Forest Railway line early next year and will try to call a debate in parliament asking for this to be look at. Again with the contribution this District makes to the economy, it is unacceptable that we do not have a single railway station in the District. If the Country has the money to pay for HS2, then we should have the money to fund this project. I will also be meeting with the Health Secretary where amongst other things, I will be asking that Ashby Hospital is not disposed of until residents are satisfied that the change in the ways services are delivered are working effectively.

I have been heartened by the success Leicestershire has had in obtaining extra funding and I am determined that this should be extended into our other public services and our Council’s. I will be leading a delegation of Leicestershire

In the meantime, I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

ANDREW BRIDGEN MP BRINGS YOU THE COALVILLE JOBS FAIR

two groups together in an event that will be full of energy, opportunity and enthusiasm.

10am – 3pm on Friday 6th March 2015 Although both youth unemployment and general unemployment in the Coalville area is falling and is lower than when I was elected to Parliament in May 2010, that’s no consolation to those who are seeking work. I recognise that it can be difficult to find a job if you don’t know what opportunities are out there, or if you haven’t been in work for some time. That’s why I am organising a 2nd Jobs Fair in Coalville on Friday 6th March 2015 to offer people looking for work an opportunity to meet and speak to local employers. The purpose of this Fair is to put these

Andrew Bridgen It will give local businesses and job seekers in Coalville and North West Leicestershire the opportunity to showcase themselves to one another in person. There will be work groups to help job seekers with CV writing and tips on winning at interview. Free Admission. This Jobs Fair will be for anyone, whatever age, school and college leavers, undergraduates, potential apprentices and those already in work who are looking to improve their skills and employment prospects, or to change jobs and enhance their working career. Real jobs for real people in Coalville and North West Leicestershire will be advertised on the day, alongside training programs and apprenticeship schemes. I do hope this event will be useful to you and I look forward to meeting many of you on the day.

MICHAEL WYATT

WYATT URGES BUS COMPANIES TO REDUCE FARES IN ASHBY AND SURROUNDING AREA Liberal Democrat Councillor Michael Wyatt has contacted bus companies urging them to pass on the reduction in the price of diesel to their customers. Many local residents in Ashby who have to rely on the local bus services are angry that they are not getting any benefits from the reduction in fuel prices, which vehicles owners are enjoying. Cllr Michael Wyatt said, “Bus users are right to complain that they are not seeing the benefits from massive reductions in the price of fuel. The bus companies are quick to increase prices and blame fuel increases but when fuel prices reduce by a large margin like recently they are silent and do nothing to help reduce their ticket price. It’s not fair that bus users are not seeing the benefits of cheaper fuel. I have written to one of the main bus companies in

the area and urged them to reduce prices. The reply I have received is that they are monitoring the situation and reviewing their prices. I only hope this is done soon so bus users in Ashby who have seen price hikes recently start to see their fares reduced accordingly.”

WYATT WELCOMES EXTRA MONEY FROM GOVERNMENT TO TACKLE POOR LOCAL ROADS Liberal Democrat County Councillor has called for North West Leicestershire to get its fair share of £74,224,000 given to the Leicestershire County Council to fix our broken roads and pavements. He was speaking after the Government pledged £6 billion nationally to finally sort our damaged roads out. Cllr Michael Wyatt said, “If Leicestershire County Council shared the money proportionately across the County - it will make a huge difference to a number of roads locally which are suffering from neglect. I only hope the Conservatives running County Hall do

the right thing and that’s to make sure places like Ashby and the surrounding villages get their fair share, especially after the recent freezing conditions. This investment can only be good news for our local roads, but obviously its down to the decision made at County Hall where the funding is allocated. I urge any resident in the Ashby area to report any damaged roads or pavements to me so that they can be reported to the County Council’s highway officers. Residents can contact me by email on mikewyatt1@hotmail. co.uk or by phone on 07773341531.”

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KIDS ZONE

I’M BORED!!!

Ode To Winter

‘So much for spring!’ said Bethany as she sat looking out of Christie’s window at the pouring rain! It had been raining for the whole week and everyone was feeling a bit fed up!

Spring, o spring. Wherefore art thou spring?

‘I want to get out and dig my garden but it’s underwater!’ moaned Daniel.

Wilt thou please some warmer weather bring?

‘I’ve got lots of washing that needs to go out on the line’ complained Christie.

To snow or not to snow, that is the question.

‘I’M BORED’ sighed Bethany,

Or does that whiten mantle give you indigestion?

‘I’M BORED’ agreed Daniel, ‘I’M BORED’ joined in Christie! ‘We need to find something to do to cheer ourselves up’ Said Christie. ‘How about we play a game? That always cheers me up’ Said Bethany feeling a bit brighter. ‘Oh yes’ said Christie, ‘But which game?’

Warmth, warmth. My kingdom for some warmth I hear you cry. That warmer days will soon be here we can’t deny. Now be gone thou winter of discontent. Come April we’ll be wondering where he went.

‘I know’, piped up Daniel, ‘let’s make new animals!’ ‘What?!’ asked Bethany confused, ‘How do we do that?’

When shall we see the darling buds of May?

So Daniel handed his friends a piece of paper and a pencil.

Fear not, they will be opening one fine, sunny day.

‘Ok, You each need to draw an animal’s head at the top of the paper but don’t let anyone see, then fold the paper over making sure the bottom of the neck is still showing.’ Explained Daniel.

In just a few short weeks, as time will tell. We’ll say “Alas poor winter. Yes, I knew him well”

So the friends each drew an animal and folded the paper over. ‘Now pass the paper to the person on your left and draw an animal’s body making sure it joins the neck that’s showing on the paper.’ Said Daniel.

By Chris Rose

So the friends each drew a body and passed it on making sure the bottom of the body was still showing. ‘Now for the legs!’ Said Daniel excitedly! So the friends drew animal legs on the bottom of the paper. ‘Ok now fold it up and pass it on again and write the name of the animal on the bottom, then pass it on again and open it up!.’ The friends did this with much giggling and then opened up their animals. Hysterical laughter broke out as strange animals were revealed, but by far the funniest was the ‘Bored Beast’, who do you think that looked like? Why not try this game out at home with your family next time you’re feeling bored?!

QUICK CRAFT Make A Birds Nest

YOU WILL NEED: Large paper plate Brown paint Thin brown paper (tissue, greaseproof or packing will all work) Brightly coloured card Wiggle eyes Scraps of yellow card or foam Glue HOW TO DO IT: • Paint the back of the plate brown and leave to dry. Cut in half. • Cut the brown paper into strips and glue them to the plate. Don’t worry about gluing all the edges as you are looking for texture. • Cut 3 ovals from coloured card and glue them along the edge of the plate. • Add a yellow beak and two wiggle eyes to each.

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Love Your Feet! Chilblains

Submitted by Sally Prytherch Hinds Feet Foot Care T: 07806786616 E: hindsfeetfootcare@gmail.com W: www.hindsfeetfootcare.co.uk Most people will experience chilblains during their lifetime and they are most common in children and elderly people mainly affecting fingers and toes, but the ears and nose can also be affected. Chilblains are characterised by red (sometimes blue) patches with itchy, painful swellings often accompanied by a burning sensation. Poor circulation can increase susceptibility to chilblains which can keep reoccurring during colder weather. Chilblains are caused by the skin reacting to cold temperatures. Tiny surface blood vessels in the skin become narrow and if warmed up too quickly these widen causing leakage of fluid into the other tissues accompanied by an itchy, inflammatory response. They can then blister becoming sore and sometimes infected. Usually chilblains will heal spontaneously after a week or two if further cold exposure is avoided. Prevention and management of chilblains includes:

• Keeping warm and dry in cold weather, paying particular attention to hands and feet • Avoiding tight footwear • Smoking tends to make chilblains worse, so stopping smoking will help • Keeping active to improve circulation • Warming cold feet and hands up gradually • Avoiding the temptation to sit close to a fire or use a hot water-bottle or other heat devices to warm up • Some medications can cause susceptibility to chilblains, and a discussion with the GP may be appropriate If chilblains are recurring with little improvement, or become infected GP advice should be sought. Medication which dilates the blood vessels and improves blood circulation may be appropriate for severe cases. Love your feet! Keep them warm, keep them dry, and keep them happy!

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7 LITTLE CHANGES THAT WILL MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE WITH YOUR OPTICIAN! A visit to the optician is crucial to your eye health. Did you know that there are lots of things that you can do to ensure that you make the most of your visit to the optician, and get the maximum benefit? Here is a list of seven little changes that’ll make a big difference to your optician. 1. Make regular appointments. Even if you are happy with your glasses or feel that you can see just fine, having regular optician appointments is vital to ensure that any abnormalities are spotted early. 2. Make a note of any changes you notice with your eyes if you experience them, along with related information such as the date.

Changes might include eye redness or tiredness developing in the evening. Showing these notes to your optician will help them to understand how your eyes are doing. 3.Tell your optician about any concerns or questions you may have. Our opticians are experts and are always pleased to help; no problem is too big or too small for us. 4. Use products according to the instructions. That means discarding monthly contacts lenses after a month, for example. This is important for keeping your eyes healthy. 5. Ask your optician when you visit if there are any new products that could benefit you. The field of optometry is always playing host to exciting new developments. 6. If after a couple of weeks you feel your new glasses or contact lenses haven’t settled down and your vision is not exactly as you would like, tell your opticians. Our opticians are always ready to make any corrections needed to give you perfect vision, so don’t feel you have to live with anything less than the best. 7. Spend enough time choosing glasses frames so you get some that you will always enjoy wearing. Visit us to book your regular appointment, ask a question, or buy a new product today!

LOCAL NEWS

LRWT NORTH WEST GROUP

IVANHOE RAISES OVER £500 FOR CHILDREN’S CHARITY

FEBRUARY 20TH MARTIN VAUGHAN LRPS

On Thursday 11th December, we raised over £500 by students and staff who donated £1 to come to school wearing a Christmas jumper.

MARCH 20TH DR JAMES ROBINSON HEAD OF NATURE POLICY RSPB SANDY

All money has been donated to the Save the Children charity that works to save children’s lives all over the world. The Christmas Jumper Day is their annual fundraising event that has raised over £1.6 million to date. The Save the Children charity states that, this year, the government will double any donations made.

Takes us on a journey showing how he learned about wildlife photography at a variety of brownfield sites in North West Leicestershire.

Will describe the many challenges to the conservation of raptors throughout the UK and will give an overview of raptor conservation illustrated by personal insights from his work on red kites and hen harriers in Northern Ireland.

APRIL 17TH ROGER BISGROVE OF SWANNINGTON HERITAGE TRUST

Describes the fascinating mosaic of the newly restored windmill at the Gorse Field nature reserve, the Califat archaeology ‘dig’ and the new Incline.

MAY 21ST MARTIN VAUGHAN LEADS US AROUND OAKTHORPE AND HICKS LODGE

Area to see some of the spots that fired his imagination and enthusiasm for wildlife photography. Meet 7:00pm at entrance to former Oakthorpe pit, Ashby Road, Donisthorpe. GR 328143

JUNE 7TH WHY NOT VISIT CLOUD WOOD - BOTANICALLY THE MOST DIVERSE RESERVE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS Enjoy bird song, meet 10:30 in the lay-by. GR 419215

JUNE 19TH VISIT SWANNINGTON GORSE FIELD RESERVE & DIG

See the horse ginn, smock mill and gorse field reserve. Meet 7:00pm at entrance to reserve on St Georges Hill, Swannington, LE67 8JW. GR 172413

JULY 3RD ASHBY CANAL WALK

Meet 7:00 outside The Globe, Snarestone to view the Ashby Canal SSSI and associated new nature reserve.

GET IN TOUCH We are a friendly group which meets monthly for talks, visits, conservation work and social events. To find out more call: David Maltby on 01530 222934 Jim Footitt on 01530 262389

Many items were also donated to Ashby Food bank – this will help families locally that are experiencing difficult times. Other festive activities throughout the day included a traditional Christmas lunch that was enjoyed by a record 400 staff and students. Mrs. Blewitt, Principal, said “Well done to everybody that took part in today’s festivities and helped raise money for a great cause. Thanks also to Parents and Carers who donated items to the Ashby Food bank and who always support our charity events.”

ASHBY STUDENTS DITCH DOUGHNUTS FOR CHARITY A group of Ashby School students is to ditch its weekly doughnut habit – and donate the money to charity instead. Students in form group G7IP decided to make their doughnut pledge for charity while decorating a festive display board in the run-up to Christmas. Hannah Bailey, 15, said: “After doing some research for our board, we realised the extent of suffering in the world at Christmas time and we wanted to create a board that would highlight the inequalities between rich and poor. Our form has a doughnut challenge every Friday so everyone in the form put a cut-out of a doughnut on the board with the name of their chosen

charity. For each month of 2015, we are going to donate the cost of 10 doughnuts to our charities. So our display board has not only decorated our classroom – it will also benefit people less fortunate than ourselves.” The students decorated their board using recycled materials – rather than the materials supplied by the school – to save money.

Teacher Rebecca Knight said “These students took a different approach to decorating their form board and showed a real awareness of global issues and compassion for the suffering of others. They also displayed a sense of moral responsibility by taking it upon themselves to raise money for those less fortunate.”

WIN £50 SHOPPING VOUCHERS AND LEARN HOW TO GO DIGITAL AT LEICESTERSHIRE LIBRARIES FOR NATIONAL LIBRARIES DAY! Join your local library on Saturday 7th February to celebrate National Libraries Day. Free refreshments will be served at Coalville, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Markfield and Measham libraries plus there will also be the chance to win £50 worth of shopping vouchers at Coalville Library, courtesy of Morrisons supermarket. All you have to do is come along on the day and borrow any item from Coalville library for your chance to win! There will also be the opportunity to learn more about the wide range of services on offer at all of our libraries, including free eBook, eAudiobook

and eMagazine titles available to borrow online.

challenge by sharing what you’re up to at your local library on 7th February.

From HELLO! magazine to the Guinness Book of Records, pop in to your library to explore the variety of digital titles available to Leicestershire Library members and learn how to use these free online services using your smart phone or tablet. Free ipad taster sessions will be running throughout the day at Coalville library (booking required in advance).

To find out more and see what’s happening at your local library on National Libraries Day contact your local library or visit: www.leics.gov.uk/ national_libraries_day

You can also get involved on the day by taking part in the #NLD15 ‘Shelfie’

Coalville Library: 0116 3053565 Ashby Library: 0116 3055917 Measham Library: 0116 3053709 Come and support your local library on this very special day!

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

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Quality Flooring Solutions for Domestic & Trade Established in 1988 by Rob and Marie Eccleston this family run business has seen 26 years of trade and has just been passed over to their second generation of owner. They were originally based in Ellistown, trading as ‘Carpet Warehouse’ but after 2 years moved to Ashby for larger premises. Now ‘Ashby Carpet Centre’ based on Market Street, the successful business eventually moved to the present location just out of the town centre. Rob and Marie’s son, Joe, who had worked his way through the business starting as a labourer, gained work experience from his father Rob and showed a strong interest in the business. He worked his way up to take over in 2013 when after 25 years, Rob and Marie retired. Ashby Carpets have a full showroom with parking for customers to the rear. Why not pop in and speak to one of the helpful members of staff to discuss your requirements fully over a coffee. We have a small selection of toys for children too!

BRA N EW

www.ashbycarpets.com

Visit us online at:

DENT Y FOR

Call us on 01530 560233 to arrange a convenient time for you to vist or pop in and see us at: 84 Smisby Road, Ashby De La Zouch. LE65 2JL

Services include: • Carpets, Underlay and Fitting • Traditional Vinyl Flooring • Luxury Vinyl Tiles (Karndean, Camaro etc...) • Laminate Flooring & Real Wood Flooring • Safety Flooring & Carpet Tiles • Carpet Edge Binding • Trade Supply

WE ARE HERE

Opening Hours: • Monday – Friday - 9.00am – 5.00pm • Saturday - 10.00am – 2.00pm • Out of hours service for visits and measures

DO YOU NEED AN NHS DENTIST?

At Charnwood Dental Centre all new patients are welcome. We are now Open 7 days a week with same day emergency appointments Call 01509 503208 to book your appointment today E: enquiries@charnwooddental.co.uk W: www.charnwooddental.co.uk Charnwood Dental Centre, 3 Bull Ring, Shepshed, Leicestershire, LE12 9PZ

Free Hygienist Appointment worth

ÂŁ35.00 for every New Patient

To take advantage of this offer you must register with our practice and have an initial Examination with our dentist. You must present voucher to redeem this offer.