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The Free Church And Its Origins
Naming Of Pets The Village Writers Latest News From Kirby Muxloe Library
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Year 1 - Superheroes
Gods And Mortals
We’ve all settled really well into Year 1 and have been getting used to a lot of changes around school. Year 1 have been incredibly busy focusing on our “Superheroes” topic. In particular, we have been discovering information about heroes from the past and present. We have enjoyed making superhero masks and looking at real-life superheroes such as nurses and doctors who are so vital in these challenging times. We are looking forward to finding out more!
Year 4 have really enjoyed their new topic 'Gods and Mortals' this term! They've had a fun Greek day, created some wonderful artwork, found out about Greek history and enjoyed reading and writing their own Greek Myths. We were so excited to have them all back in school and they have really impressed us with their thirst for learning and interest in the topic! They are also learning to play the Ukulele so our classrooms are filled with harmonious sounds! Well done Year 4!
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For our Mighty Metals topic this half term, Year 3 children have been designing and then making from clay their own robotic companion for the lonely Iron Man. The children had great fun being technology experts for the day and enjoyed inventing their own multifunctional friend. But who will the giant Iron Man choose as his lifelong buddy?
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Ratby Community Library Article by Joan Burton
As Autumn arrives we are pleased to announce the arrival of a quantity of new books; fiction, non-fiction and lots of children's titles. We have a good selection of Young Adult titles that older readers enjoy so they are waiting to be explored along with our more junior choices. Parents have been frequent visitors in the past and a little bit of shared reading is always a good experience so do come and have a look and take a book! Why not tell us what you think? It would be great if, having read and enjoyed a story, readers would like to write a short review for display in the library: children could illustrate theirs and adults might also like to recommend similar authors to move on to. Nothing too long, maybe a brief plot reference and why it's such a good read – after all we don't always know what's inside the cover...
We remain fully available for appointments via face to face, telephone, email and now by post if required. We are still willing to meet our clients in the comfort of their homes by appointment only and are following guidance provided by the Government in regards to hygiene and safe distancing. We will of course work with you, our customers and partners, and respect their wishes on preferred means of contract. Kornerstone Legal Services remains here for you.
Protecting Your Family’s Inheritance Article by Klara Hesling
Most people hope that their estate will pass on to their children and grandchildren eventually.
As visitor numbers have increased so too have the number of library sessions. Visitors suggested another morning session would be welcome so we have adjusted our times. Opening Hours From 1st October: 10am - 12 Wednesday, Saturday. 2pm - 4pm Tuesday, Thursday. Closed Monday and Sunday. Of course, this is subject to local and national conditions and may change accordingly but it is our intention to do everything in our power to welcome visitors and gradually offer as much of the old services, as possible.
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).
Our new system on entry has bedded in well and regulars know that our mask wearing policy and hand sanitizing on entry both protects and reassures visitors that we are upholding government expectations and guidelines. Track and trace details will be asked for on entry. As you know, the library volunteers will assist with the return of books and, really importantly, borrowing from the well-stocked shelves, following our one-way route. All returned stock are quarantined for 72 hours before being returned to the shelves. This also applies to the many donations of books we receive – look for them on our trolleys, select what you'd like to own and make a cash donation in the box provided.
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. 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 of particular interest to couples who have come together and have children from different partners.
Warm the journey home. What has also returned is the chance to buy a hot drink and a wrapped snack. At the moment it is takeaway only but watch this space for news of when we can restore our Crow Pie Cafe service. Tea and coffee at £1 a cup is available and hot chocolate only £1.30. Cold drinks are also available, of course. Children also seem to love our sweet counter at pocket money prices. So do come and treat yourself to your favourite sip and snack next time you call.
A PPT can help each person in a relationship ensure 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 be used to purchase a new property; the terms of the Trust remain over the new property.
See you soon. You can see regular Library updates on Facebook's Spotted Ratby page.
Do You Feel Isolated Or Lonely?
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.
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Ozzy O’shea County Councillor
T: 0116 2394336 M: 07808585825 E: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com Coronavirus Regulations update as of 29th September 2020 I appreciate residents are getting tired of restrictions changing. I thought it might help if I gave you the latest information to hand. Set out below is a summary of the regulations issued over the last week with the Issue Date and the impact Protected area / Childcare1 22.9.20 Oadby and Wigston added to the protected area. Allows linking of households for informal childcare to a child under 13 years of age subject to various conditions Face coverings 2 23.9.20 Extends requirements to wear a face covering to those travelling in taxis and private hire vehicles. Face coverings 3 24.9.20 Amendment to the Face Coverings regulations to include theatres, restaurants, bars and public houses in the scope of the “relevant places” where members of the public are required to wear face coverings (except for in some limited cases such as when it is reasonably necessary for a person to remove their face covering to eat or drink). They also require employees and other persons providing services in certain “relevant places”, including in shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and public houses to wear face coverings when they are in close proximity to members of the public unless they are exempt or have a reasonable excuse. Various restrictions 4 24.9.20 (1) requires the closure of businesses selling food or drink from 22:00 – 05:00 (allowing premises to stay open beyond 22:00 to conclude a performance that has begun before 22:00 and businesses to offer drive through /delivery and allowing exceptions for e.g. corner shops / motorway services etc) (2) requires businesses to take reasonable steps to ensure customers only consume food/drink whilst seated (3) imposes various restrictions in relation to gatherings to limit attendance at e.g. weddings and receptions to 15 persons and 30 persons for funerals (4) increases in the amounts of fixed penalty notices for breach Self-isolation and Tracking information 28.9.20 Requires adults who have been notified by the NHS or LA that they have tested positive for Coronavirus or have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive, to self-isolate for a specified period. This means that they must remain in their home or another suitable place for that period. There are specified exceptions from the requirements, for example, leaving the place of self-isolation to seek urgent medical assistance, fulfilling a legal obligation, and (where it is not possible to do so by another means) to obtain basic necessities such as food or medical supplies. People required to self-isolate must provide, when requested, the details of the address at which they will be staying. People who have tested positive will also be required to provide the names of other people living in the same household as them. Where an adult has responsibility for a person under the age of 18 the adult must secure, as far as reasonably practicable, that the young person self-isolates for the specified period and notify the address at which they will do so. The periods of isolation are specified; for someone who has tested positive for SARSCoV-2 the requirement is to self-isolate until 10 days after the date on which their symptoms began, if that is known and has been reported, or otherwise 10 days after the date of their test. For people who are notified that they are a close contact of another household member who has tested positive, the requirement is to isolate until 14 days after the date that the other household member’s symptoms began, if that is known and has been reported, or otherwise until 14 days after the date of that person’s test. ‘ The employer of a person required to self-isolate is under a duty to not knowingly allow that person to work The regulations also create duties for designated venues to collect the names and contact details of customers, visitors and staff. Venue restrictions 28.9.20 Introduces a requirement on various defined service providers to take reasonable measures to refuse booking of 6+ persons and ensure that no persons join another group such as to contravene the requirement to limit gathering size. Introduces new requirements to take measures to stop singing and dancing, subject to some exemptions, and to not play music which exceeds 85db(A). Requires either a notice to be displayed informing persons on the premises of the requirement to wear a face covering (unless an exemption applies, or the person has a reasonable excuse not to wear a face covering) or to take other measures to ensure that persons entering the premises are so informed
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Test and Trace Support payments To support the new self-isolation requirements the government has introduced a support payment scheme in operation until 31 January 2021. Individuals who have been asked to self-isolate by the NHS test and trace who are employees or self-employed and unable to work from home and who are in receipt of various benefits will be eligible. The entitlement is to a lump sum payment of £500 (subject to tax but not NI). Although the scheme is in force from 28th September the LA is expected to have a system in place from 12 October and this will allow a backdated claim. The application is to be make on line or by phone and supporting evidence of eligibility will be required. The LA administering the scheme will required access to various benefit, HMRC and NHS test and trace data to assess eligibility. Indications are that there will also be a discretionary fund for individuals who do not qualify for the support payment but who require corresponding financial support to self-isolate. The scheme is funded by the government and to be operated by District councils. Here’s the link to a news item on the latest Covid-19 figures for Leicestershire - www.leicestershire.gov.uk/news/latest-cases-highlight-needto-fight-virus-together Groby and Ratby Targeted by Catalytic Convertor Thieves in Broad Daylight I want to make residents aware that over the past week or so thieves have been targeting Toyota Hybrid cars in broad daylight jacking up cars on peoples driveways and cutting off the cars catalytic Convertor. They not only remove that part but cause more damage to the car in the process. I am reliably informed that owners of Toyota’s can have a metal plate fitted by the dealer to secure their catalytic convertor. The following is an extract from an email sent to be by a groby resident who was a victim. On 29 September, the catalytic converters of both our hybrid cars were stolen from our drive on Highfield Road, in broad daylight. The thieves caused damage, significant cost and anxiety to all my family. According to a neighbour's report, they 'jacked' each vehicle (both are Toyotas), got under them, cut off the part they were after and made off in a black or dark Seat. The 'operation' probably took less than five minutes. According to the Police, other neighbours, local garages, and as reported in the Spotlight and elsewhere, gangs are currently after catalytic converters. The Police described this to me as 'an epidemic'. Thieves appear to be targeting this area. Indeed. I would urge all owners of cars with Catalytic Convertors to be aware. Advance Notice of a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order Station Road, Ratby A Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO)is to be made for the following location: Station Road, between Dane Hill and Taverner Drive, Ratby The purpose of the TTRO is to allow STW and their contractors to undertake the installation of a new water connection. The TTRO will incorporate a temporary road closure. The duration of the restriction is not anticipated to exceed a period of 1 day commencing on the 21stNovember 2020.APress Release will be issued to confirm these details approximately 2 weeks prior to the works commencing. Wildflower Verge Scheme 2021/22 Leicestershire County Council are pleased to announce that the Wildflower Verge Scheme will be continuing for 2021/22 and we’re now accepting applications. The scheme proved to be very successful last year with 12 parishes taking part – we’ve seen some excellent results of wildflowers flourishing along our roadsides, helping to improve biodiversity and encouraging wildlife to the areas. The attached photos have been sent to parishes to encourage them to apply. Following the success of our Urban Wildflower Project in 2020, we are pleased to announce that we have now joined forces with the BLUE Campaign https://bluecampaignhub.com/councils to promote the rewilding of urban verges across the UK. LCC will be the first Council in the Midlands to join this campaign and we will actively work with the BLUE Campaign to make it a success in Leicestershire. There are now 120 blue heart sites across the UK and we hope to see this number increase. The process for wildflower verges on the highway network remains the same. An application needs to be support by a parish or a community group who are prepared to manage and maintain the area as a wildflower
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verge - this relates in particular to non-parish areas. It will also be their responsibility to ensure that the initiative is supported by the immediate locality prior to any initiative taking place.
The Village Writers
Earlier this week, the County Council sent emails to parishes to advise them how to apply.
The local VILLAGE WRITERS is still 'meeting' via the internet. We write to a bi-monthly homework title, then send our creative comments back to their authors
The deadline for applications is 27th November 2020. If you require any further information on this scheme please or wish to submit an application, please get in touch via cscparishes@leics.gov.uk Fix Penalty Notice Scam I have had several residents contact me after receiving this scam email regarding a fixed penalty Notice. Please note the email address that it has been sent from which gives it away. --------- Forwarded message --------From: HM Courts & Tribunals Service <cuponeria@cuponeria.com.br> Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2020 at 13:32 Subject: Your Fixed Penalty Notice Ref:19283891222 To: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> GOV.UK This penalty Charge Notice has been sent to you as the registered keeper This email is sent to xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Total cost: £25 For the following: the use of a vehicle on a road in the charging area which a charging scheme applies without payment of the appropriate charge, at the date and location started below Location: United Kingdom If you do not respond before the end of the period of 28 days beginning with the date of service of this notice a charge certificate may be issued which would increase the penalty charge to £100. Failure to then pay the increased penalty charge may result in the outstanding balance being registered as a debt in the County Court You have 14 days beginning with the date of service of this notice to pay the discounted penalty charge of £25. if this is not paid by 22/09/2020 then the full penalty charge of £50 is payable. Penalty Charge Notice Number: YYJ18488219911 Automated payment reference: 950192341223 How to pay your Penalty Charge To pay by Credit or Debit Card 1. Click here to pay by card online & click on Pay a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). Click here to pay This is the quickest and easiest way to pay and receive a receipt as your payment is immediately credited to Charge Notice Contact Centre 1.Telephone 0343 222 3331 (temporarily unavailable) Microsoft Scam Email Notice the sender is not Microsoft it’s from a private account and does not even address the intended recipient. Account Notification <Schellenberg_999@hotmail.com> Mon 14/09/2020 12:14 Microsoft ©2020 Respected User, Your Microsoft account is being compromised and new messages will be blocked Please confirm your account and location to indicate that it is still in use. Confirm Now Note: In 24 hours, all Inactive Microsoft accounts will be deactivated. Microsoft respects your privacy. Read our privacy policy for more information. Microsoft Corporation One Microsoft Way Finally I want to thank you all for your continued support and remind you that should you need my help or advice, I always pride myself on making myself available to residents. Remember I am only a phone call or email away. Ozzy O’shea Always Working for you.
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Article by David Schonveld
We've been going for five years and anyone interested in developing their writing, or looking for a sympathetic audience to get helpful feedback, can join (no special standard required) Enquiries to David (co-ordinator) for more detailed information: 01162393380 or 07902 422453 or aschons98@gmail.com Naming of Pets We give names to our pets to mark them as ours. defining bonds as we would have them be, no matter how in truth and time they grow. So Adam, in the garden, named the world Though still being admired by God he had the gift to name them as they were. We've lost all that and name to please ourselves; we show our own delights like slogans on a sweatshirt. I favour humour, nonsense if you will. on grounds it doesn't matter what you choose with Eden lost. And I feed the cat Astrophe the hamster Deeth the rabbit Burns the horse Raddish the donkey Hoté and a dog called Muff. The dog's a crafty, and cryptic double bluff when in the park he roams to do his stuff. I stand and shout "-Ere Muff! " 'Ere Muff! "
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Email: eandlmaintenanceltd@outlook.com Angela has recently joined Hortons Estate Agents as a partner agent covering the LE3 area of Leicester, which includes: Leicester Forest East, Western Park, Rowley Fields and all surrounding areas. Angela has over 15 years of experience within estate agency, previously working for a large, corporate agent in the local area. “I could see that the property market was changing and the days of traditional High Street agents were dwindling, so I decided it was time to embrace the new way of working and with Hortons it has been the perfect match.” “I work as a personal agent and I am available whenever it is required. This allows me to provide a much more bespoke service and to better understand my vendors requirements,
ultimately meaning that we can achieve the best possible price for their property.” “All homes are on websites such as Rightmove and Zoopla, but our substantial social media presence offers an amazing, alternative way to reach potential buyers. Currently, we have over 50,000 followers across various social media platforms.” Hortons are a modern day estate agent. “We think of ourselves first as marketers, second as estate agents. Modern estate agency is all about reaching and engaging with buyers online.” If you are looking to buy or sell in the local area, please contact Angela Patsalidou to discuss how we could help.
Angela Patsalidou Partner / Hortons P: 0116 456 0131 M: 07939 56180 E: angela@hortons.co W: www.hortons.co
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Ozzy O’shea Borough Councillor
ChrisBorough Boothby Councillor
T: 0116 2394336 M: 07808585825 E: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com Dear Residents, Full Application for 168 dwellings on the former Oakland Riding School, Groby Road Ratby. This Full application that features design and layout for 168 dwellings by Millar Homes via their Land Agents Charterhouse will be heard and determined by the virtual Planning Committee on the 20th October 2020. Since they already have outline planning permission for said application and that the ruling LibDem Administration voted for it without any debate, then it is highly likely that this application will go through. Although there was a huge objection locally, led by Mr Joseph Pollard, and we thank him for that, we knew that they had to come back with a full application at some point. We have, since then, questioned why local residents on Markfield Road, Ratby had not been consulted so as to get important objections on to the Planning Department at HBBC but we were told that they were sent out so it was the fault of the Postal Service. Since then, the new full application has come in and still no consultation.
T: 0116 2912796 M: 07306 390543 E: chris.boothby@hotmail.co.uk
" The Local Authority Advice is that, in its view, the impact of the development on highway safety would not be unacceptable and when considered cumulatively with other developments, the impacts on the road networks would not be severe. Based on the information provided, the development therefore does not conflict with paragraph 109 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2019." Obviously, we are whole heartedly disappointed in this response from Highways . We have both always maintained that the entrance and exit on a blind bend on Markfield Road will be an accident waiting to happen and we pray that that never happens. Sorry that this report is short but please get in touch for us to help you with any issues that we can. Stay safe as always. Best Regards Chris and Ozzy. Working for you.
We had hoped for a re-think by LCC Highways but this is their response.
Autumn Days Article by Kirby Lad I walk the fields and cast my gaze around Green spiny globes lie scattered on the ground Some split already, spilling on the turf The chestnuts shiny brown fresh on the earth Recalling days gone by, the memory lingers Of conker fights and stinging frosty fingers On forest floors capped acorns lie in scores We pass them only glancing without pause But eyes above are watching ever more To gather up this treat for winter store Whilst some may rise as giant oaks one day The squirrels will hide most of them away The morning sun is lower now and weak Warm summer days now turning cold and bleak The leaves once green and bright are fading fast Now edged with orange faced with icy blasts Of northern winds and near frost chilly dawns With mists on fields and dewy surfaced lawns We check the clock, and find to our surprise That, though it’s dark, it’s really time to rise The recent endless days that we recall Abbreviated now as darkness falls We light the fire and close the windows tight And pull the curtains shutting out the night
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When’s the right time to consider a stairlift? This month Occupational Therapist Sophia Dickinson BSc (Hons.), MRCOT, Founder of Home Independence Occupational Therapy Ltd, tells us about her role as an Occupational Therapist and how she helps people to maintain their skills and independence with everyday activities in their home. Sophia also talks about the positive impact that a stairlift can have on a person’s life and the signals that indicate a stairlift could be a necessary solution for moving between the upstairs and downstairs as mobility becomes an issue. Sophia Dickinson BSc (Hons.), MRCOT Founder of Home Independence Occupational Therapy Ltd
Q • Sophia, many people have reservations about getting a stairlift and feel it could take away their mobility – from your experience, what would your view be on this? A • If an individual has reservations about getting a stairlift, due to a fear that it may reduce their mobility, I would ask about their current level of mobility. Are they walking with a mobility aid or independently? How far can they currently walk? Do they tire easily? Do they experience shortness of breath? Can they complete the stairs easily now or are they beginning to find the stairs are exhausting? Do they feel anxious about completing the stairs? Do they have stair rails in place to help them? Have they ever felt unsafe to complete the stairs or worried that they lack the strength to continue? This information would help me to assess the current mobility, levels of fatigue, shortness of breath, emotional wellbeing, and the impact on energy levels. Completing stairs is a great form of exercise for those who are physically able to manage without risk of injury or harm, fatigue, or shortness of breath. However, for those with reduced mobility, who are finding that completing the stairs is exhausting, a stairlift could be the perfect solution. Q • If people don’t feel ready for a stairlift, what else could they do to ensure they are still able to access vital parts of their home such as the bathroom and kitchen whilst remaining mobile? A • If an individual does not feel ready for a stairlift but is unsafe to complete the stairs due to a risk of falling down the stairs. I would advise them not to use the stairs at all and instead to have a downstairs existence. I would ask the following questions: Do you have two reception rooms? Can one of them become a bedroom? Do you have an easily accessible toilet downstairs? Or is a commode needed? If a commode is needed, who will empty it? Do you have level access shower facilities downstairs? If not, can you manage to have an all over body wash independently? If not, can someone help you? I would assess the environment to reduce the risk of falls and offer solutions to promote independence. Q • What would you say are the ‘red lights’ that might indicate a stairlift could be needed relatively quickly? A • There are several factors which could indicate that a stairlift is needed. Reduced mobility, the need for a walking aid, such as a walking stick or a walking frame. Fatigue, shortness of breath, existing stair rails no longer appear to be helpful, feelings of anxiety related to the stairs and worry that they are unsafe to complete the stairs or that they lack the strength to continue. Sophia’s company - Home Independence Occupational Therapy - was founded on care, compassion and dignity. Sophia Dickinson has been a qualified OT since 2003, and works with Candor Care to help make positive changes to people’s lives. You can get receive a FREE consultation from Sophia by telephoning her on 07341265564 or through her website www.homeindependenceot.co.uk If you’d like to find out more about when the right time would be to look at a stairlift, you can call Candor Care for a confidential chat under no obligation or pressure. Call 0330 100 4564 or arrange a Call Back via their website www.candorstairlifts.co.uk
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RATBY PRIMARY SCHOOL Welcome To All Of Our New Foundation Stage Children Forty children have started school this year in the Rainbow and Sunshine Classes and we are absolutely delighted that they have all settled in so happily! Our Topic this half term is ‘If you go down to the woods today…’ and there have been a few surprises! Most of our learning so far has been based around two of our favourite woodland stories, Owl Babies and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. We had to find clues to the Goldilocks story on the playground and we have retold the story with puppets and role play, identifying the main events and talking about the characters. We have been counting bears and problem solving, using different sizes of bears. The children have all shown a tremendous interest in learning new things and we are having a lot of fun together! Our next topic will be Dinosaurs Roar!
Returning To Year 5 When we came back to Year 5, there were many changes. We weren’t allowed to touch each other, no-one was allowed to move spaces or touch other people’s stationery. Also we had to social distance and stay away at break. When we came back we weren’t allowed to have whole school assemblies and also we had to have break and lunchtime at different times. We have half of lunch inside, watching a movie, and half of lunch outside. During the day we have to wash our hands six times. When we did come back to school, we had to get used to the changes, even though now it is normal. The normal things are that we still do topics, English, Maths and Reading. In topics we have been learning about the Moon, Sun and Mars. One fact is that it takes 28 days for the Moon to go around Earth. In class reading, we have finished a book called Street Child, that has taught us about Victorian times. We are all looking forward to our next topic ‘Hola Mexico’! The best thing about coming back to school was seeing our friends again. By Emily and Ava
Street Detectives - Year 2 During the first half of the new term, Year 2 have settled in very well back at school. The children enjoyed interviewing a local Ratby resident via Zoom as part of their new topic on ‘Street Detectives’. The topic focuses on learning about the history of the village of Ratby and looks at how it has changed over time. As you can imagine, the children were very excited and enthusiastic to look at maps and work out what has changed in the local community. Year 2 are very much looking forward to learning more about the ‘Street Detectives’ topic and are excited to describe their route to school, including any local landmarks they spot along the way.
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National Poetry Day 2020 On Thursday 1st October 2020 Ratby Primary celebrated National Poetry Day. The theme that we chose to write poems on was ‘A Child of our Time 2020.’ Many children wrote about the current pandemic that we are all going through and how is has affected them and their families. The writing that the children produced was just fantastic and very moving.
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Clann Gifts
A Brand New Gift Shop in Kirby Muxloe
O
n Tuesday 18th August I opened a brand new gift shop in Kirby Muxloe. The shop can be found on the main row of shops on Main Street, and was formerly the home of Real Flavours Deli.
The word ‘Clann’ means ‘family’ in Irish, and this word was specifically chosen to highlight the fact that we are a small, family run business, with Irish roots. Our Irish heritage can be seen in the Irish products we stock which include the beautiful (and certified organic) Voya seaweed extract spa range products and the luxurious Aran knitwear products (as worn by Taylor Swift). Not only is there the link to Ireland, but also one to the local community. As a Kirby Muxloe resident, I am passionate about stocking products created by the wonderful local artists found within Kirby Muxloe and the surrounding villages. We currently stock Resin & Rose, Nana’s Button Jar, SmARTsy, Jam Tart Studio, Code Leather Goods plus many more. Alongside gifts from across the sea in Ireland, and those from around the corner in the homes and workshops of local artists, we are also impassioned to source natural, organic, recyclable and ethically sourced products, wherever possible, whilst also stocking lovely gifts such as toys, candles, jewellery, stationery, scarves, socks, cards, personalised items, and soaps.
I can promise you that there is something for every budget, and every member of the family! Our current opening hours are: Monday 9.30am – 4pm Tuesday 9.30am – 4pm Wednesday Closed Thursday 9.30am – 4pm Friday 9.30am – 4pm Saturday 9.30am – 4pm Sunday Closed Look out for late night openings in the run up to Christmas, and other exciting updates on our Facebook page (search Clann Gifts). Please feel reassured that we are following all up-to-date advice regarding COVID-19. Currently, we have increased levels of cleaning, reduced the numbers of customers in the shop at any one time, we have hand sanitising stations, observe social distancing measures, and the wearing of face mask is mandatory (unless due to a health issue). On the topic of face masks … we have a range of beautiful masks on sale to brighten this unprecedented situation, whilst we will always
offer you a disposable mask if you have forgotten yours. I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all those that have wished me well and supported me so far, and to those who have left fantastic reviews or had positive things to pass on. We hope that you make Clann Gifts the place to go to find that something special so that you can treat those important people in your life. Clann Gifts… gifts from our family to yours! Lisa Adams Clann Gifts Owner clanngifts@outlook.com 0116 2395682
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The Kirby Muxloe Local History Group Article by Judith Upton
The Kirby Muxloe Local History Group generally meets 6 times a year, and membership is open to all. Visitors are always welcome to all our meetings, which usually take place in St. Bartholomew’s Church Hall, Main St., Kirby Muxloe and start at 7.30 pm. Details of the dates of meetings, together with the topics that will be covered, are shown on the notice board in Kirby Muxloe Library and on our website, which is www. kirbymuxloelocalhistorygroup.org The Free Church and its origins Taking time to wade through old copies (1928 onwards) of the Free Church magazine has been most enlightening. Although much of the recent history of the church has been written about in various booklets, the old copies of the magazines give further insight, as they were often written after speaking with some of the people who were actually in the village when the Free Church was formed.
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Martin Tibbles Kirby Muxloe Free Church before the bombing of 1940. Courtesy of the Will Walker Collection
If we go back to the 16th century, the word nonconformist referred to anyone who did not belong to the established church (Church of England), i.e. Roman Catholics, Jews, Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Quakers and more. By the late nineteenth century, the word was mainly used to describe non-Anglican Protestants. At this time, the name “Free Church” began to replace the word “nonconformist” and the formation of many new churches began to take place. In our village, the Free Church was open to any nonconformist, with the understanding that there would always be a Baptist minister. Kirby Muxloe did have several nonconformists in previous centuries; for example, records have been found of a meeting in the house of John Penfold of “Kirby Mucklow” in 1670. The people attending were Quakers and the purpose of the meeting was to give charitable assistance to the poor. Unfortunately, as it was a nonconformist meeting, John Penfold and three others were fined. For later indescretions, he was put in jail. Our most celebrated nonconformist was possibly Thomas Hardy. He was born in 1790 and his family were frame-work knitters who lived in an old cottage on Blood’s Hill. After studying the bible, attending the Parish church and having many discussions with the Parish clergyman, he decided to move away from the established church and become a nonconformist. In 1816, he commenced his preaching career and by the time he died in 1833, he had become a well-known
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and celebrated nonconformist preacher travelling across the country, leading services. Although our Parish Church had become very well established over the previous centuries, by the late nineteenth century, some people were looking for an alternative place to practice their religious beliefs. Church services were held in the mornings in wintertime, as it was difficult to conduct a service with candlelight, Leicester gas having not yet arrived in the village. Consequently, there were often groups of young people, young men especially, roaming around the streets on a Sunday evening with nothing to do. In around 1876, a group of young men said to have come from Ratby started to hold open-air religious services in the street in Kirby Muxloe. Among them were William Baker, George Richards, John Adams and John Mason. These four men would become some of the founder members of the Kirby Muxloe Free Church. As the attendance at the services grew in number, it became apparent that an indoor venue was required. Fortunately, Mr Henser, who at the time lived in Faith Cottage and who was interested in an alternative place to worship, offered his home as a base. At this time, there was no preaching, just small gatherings for praise and testimony. Soon afterwards, a Mr T.H. Downing of Leicester moved into the village, setting up home in Vernon House on Main Street. He was already a Congregationalist and having heard of the services taking place in Faith Cottage, thought it would be a good idea to invite people of the village to services in his billiard room, a large building at the rear of his house. A poster was attached to his gatepost advertising the meetings and soon the billiard room was full of worshippers, mainly young people, on a Sunday evening. The original people attending meetings at Faith Cottage also joined the congregation in Vernon House. Mr Downing’s sister formed the first Free Church choir. The names of the first choristers will be very familiar to many of us (Russell, Townsend, Hutchinson etc.). Unfortunately, two years later, Mr Downing moved back to Leicester and sold Vernon House, so once more, the newly formed Church did not have a meeting place. The congregation was scattered and for around 12 months there were no services. However, the choir and other faithful followers decided to move back to Mr Henser’s Faith Cottage. Mr Henser, being a very willing gentleman, pulled down the wall in the centre of his cottage in order to accommodate the growing membership and installed an American organ. Once more, it soon became apparent that Faith Cottage was too small. The arrival in the village of Mr Turner, a staunch nonconformist, was a turning point. Mr Turner joined the group services in Faith Cottage and realising that the venue was too small, set about finding larger accommodation. The church moved premises again, this time to the “Red Barn” on Desford Road. This was only for a limited time and the rent was five shillings a week. This building eventually became the centre part of the Forest Lodge Hotel, but at the time was just a very tall, narrow construction. Attendance continued to grow, with at least 50 or 60 regular worshippers. Mr Turner’s popularity grew and he became a “leading light” in the congregation. He was an accomplished musician; he re- organised the choir and became very involved in all aspects of the Church. During the move to the Red Barn, there was a slight altercation involving chairs which had originally come from Vernon House. They had been moved into Faith Cottage when meetings had recommenced there and Mr Henser decided that he did not want to give them up. However, good humour prevailed when Tom Russell, sensing a problem, looked at Mr Turner and exclaimed “Give the word Mister and we’ll storm the walls of Sebastopol”. Everyone roared with laughter and the crisis was averted. By 1880, a decision was made that a purpose-built Church was required. To be continued.
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G E GAMBLE & SONS INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS —–––––––––– ESTABLISHED 1830 —–––––––––-
As we settle in for the long haul, seemingly, we are gradually becoming more confident about making changes towards providing a greater range of services in the Library. Below is a summary of what the situation now is. Opening Hours Tuesdays Thursdays Saturdays
2.00 - 4.00 2.00 - 4.00 10.00 – 12.00
You will see that we have added another day, Thursday, to our opening hours. Note that opening on Thursdays is for the duration of the pandemic only. The reason for restricting the number of days that we are open is that we need to quarantine all returns and browsed books before re-shelving them, so we need time between openings to allow that to happen. The reason for cutting opening times from 3 hours to 2 is that the number of visitors is not large, as yet, though gradually increasing, and we can therefore manage with less hours. Volunteers have to clean the Library thoroughly after each opening, and we are anxious not to extend their hours unnecessarily. Services on Offer Books can be taken out and returned (the book drop is open). We have a range of new books and, because the transport service is not yet available, we have many books on the shelves that we have not been able to return to other Libraries. We therefore have a huge stock at the moment, so a good time to take books out! Note that, for the same reason, we cannot yet order books on hold.
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Bearing in mind that colder weather is now upon us, and the nights are drawing in, we have resumed the jigsaw loan service, and also have opened up our books and DVDs for sale service. We cannot yet take donated books (lack of space to store). Refreshments We are now able to offer a takeaway service for refreshments. Amazingly, our brilliant coffee machine is working at full strength, despite having been out of action for some months, so takeaway tea and coffee are now available, along with biscuits, Kit-Kats, crisps and cakes (not home-made at the moment), to say nothing of ice creams. So not the old Blue Potts service yet, but getting there slowly but surely! Covid-19 Security We are doing everything that we can to keep you and our volunteers safe and secure, so that you feel confident in visiting the Library. To this end, you are asked to: • wear a face mask • sanitise your hands upon entry - sanitiser is provided • provide your details for Track and Trace purposes - you can scan your QR code if you prefer and have downloaded the Track & Trace app. These details are kept for 21 days and shredded thereafter. We are not yet in a position to open the toilets, except in cases of genuine emergency, in which case you should approach a member of staff. We will keep you updated as circumstances develop, but in the meantime, do drop in for a visit - even if it’s just for a chat! We look forward to seeing you.
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