January 2021 Your Local Ratby, Kirby Muxloe & Leicester Forest East

YOUR LOCAL 6,800 COPIES DELIVERED EVERY MONTH - RATBY, KIRBY MUXLOE & LFE - JANUARY 2020

Protecting Your Family's Inheritance

Latest News From Ratby Primary School

Colouring Competition Winners Announced

Ratby Surgery PPG Coronavirus Vaccinations

Latest News From Kirby Muxloe Local History Group Using Pure Water, We Clean: Gutters and Fascias, Barge Boards, Windows & Conservatories, PV Panels

INSTALLER

JET WASHING - PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS

Our Chimney Sweeping Services: Power & Traditional Brush Sweeping, Stove Cleaning & Servicing, Door Seal & Rope Replacement, Smoke Testing, Cowl Fitment

• RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CLEANING • FULLY INSURED • FRIENDLY LOCAL COMPANY To make your booking or for more information, please call Kevin O’Brien:

T: 01530 510833 - M: 07572122236 - www.5starguttercleaning.co.uk

DESIGNER BATHROOMS Tel: 0116 251 0363 - sales@ designerbathroomsleicester.com www.designerbathroomsleicester.com - 74 Bradgate Street, Leicester, LE4 0AW

D

esigner Bathrooms are a family business with two generations of experience based in the heart of Leicestershire.

With an in-house team of experts who are all fully trained and qualified to the highest standard, Designer Bathrooms can ensure total customer satisfaction.

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

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

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

From speaking to the team at Designer Bathrooms it’s clear that they want everyone to be able to have a relaxing and inspiring bathing experience.

As such they are proud of their quality of service, products and their single level showroom plus they also specialise in accessible

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

from first thought to final tile

Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 9am to 4pm Private car park available They look forward to welcoming you soon….

NEW EXTENDED SHOWROOM - OVER 35 ROOM SETTINGS TO VIEW

Contact Us

For advertising, leaflet delivery and articles, get in touch with the details below.

Colouring Competition Winners Thank you to everyone for the amazing entries, here is just a few of the many entries we had that came flooding in. We hope everyone enjoyed their chocolate selection boxes over Christmas.

Articles

yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk 0800 6446 150

Advertising

0800 6446 150 sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Distribution

Andrew Lewis 07504634838 andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Ella - Age 3

Brooklyn - Age 5

Louis - Age 7

Molly - Age 8

Sophie - Age 9

Bethany - Age 5

Visit Our Website

You can find out more about our advertising plans, circulation, leaflet delivery, submit articles and bookings. www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

Write To Us

OpenBox Promotions Ltd 42 Forest Rise Kirby Muxloe Leicestershire LE9 2HQ

Like & Follow Us

facebook.com/openboxpromotions twitter.com/openboxpromo

Next Issue Out

Deadline Date: Friday 5th February Delivery Date: Friday 12th February

Deadline and delivery dates are subject to change without prior notice.

Read Online

Scan the QR code below to read this magazine and our other magazines online.

Not got a QR scanner or not working?

Use this link: https://issuu.com/norwoodpress The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the original advertisers & contributors and do not necessarily represent OpenBox Promotions Ltd. OpenBox 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

Do You Feel Isolated Or Lonely?

Article by Julie Watson

Would you benefit from companionship / befriender or some help with all aspects of everyday life. Reliable, friendly, local lady available. Recommendations and references available. DBS checked. Tel: 07531008958

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 3

The Village Writers A Ball of String Written by Cherryl Read

The new ball of string crisp grey - almost white, pristine, untouched.

Neatly wound, it’s long strand criss-crosses evenly making a squat, almost-round sphere with its end tucked out of sight into the dark hollow in the middle of the shape. Or is that its invisible beginning?

The beginning that, once released from the small, dark cave will unravel the ball from within and allow the string to become useful.

To be what it was meant to be. To be used and re-used. Romantic notions of brown paper packages tied up with strings promotes thoughts of a curious or excited receiver finding the bow too tightly knotted to be undone quickly, so pulling and sliding it this way and that against the brown, shiny paper encasing the parcel and then as soon as practicable tugging it off, momentarily casting it aside whilst interest in it is suspended and focus is on unwrapping the brown paper and then to oh and ah over the content revealed.

Later to wistfully retrieve the string, more patience now to untie the knots and bows and carefully wind it around the index and middle finger to make a neat loop, the last few inches being drawn round the middle of the loop to secure it before dropping it into the bits and bobs drawer to be forgotten, perhaps for ever. Or maybe retrieved, used to tie another parcel, its ends (or beginnings) cut and discarded or once again wound into a smaller loop to go back into the really useful drawer for an indeterminate length of time. By now the string looks grubby, its ends frayed, perhaps a tight knot or two making little bumps along its thin, strong line. Its use now is for more utilitarian purposes - it’s had its time of glory in securing precious parcels - and is found at the allotment or in the garden, tying blackberry canes to the fence or holding wayward rose shrubs to stakes. At the end of the season it is worn, weathered, grey and soft, crumbling to shreds, its strength faded. It is tossed into the compost bin to be digested by worms.

LevLaw Ltd

LevLaw LevLaw Ltd Ltd Reaching New Heights Article by Klara Hesling

Initial Training Process

Reaching new heights reaching new

LevLaw Ltd previously Kornerstone Legal Ltd have recently rebranded, due to a franchising opportunity in England and Wales.

DAY 1 Signing Contract In addition our rebranding allowed us to avoid a potential dispute with another company called Cornerstone who had set up a trademark.

LevLaw Ltd Legal LevLaw Ltdpreviously previouslyKornerstone Kornerstone Ltd haveis still recently rebranded, due to aas the Legal rebranded, The foundation Chief Jesus with Christ, represented AgendaLtd is 2-4have daysCornerstone, - recently One-to-one the Franchisor (Accomm King, Lion of– Judah.

Lev opportunity is Czech Lion,will which was where the new Franchising in England and Agenda for the 2fordays be:observations of 1st and 2n due to aLevLaw franchising opportunity inand inmarketin company name came from.

The bible has a book Franchisor, marketing strategy revealed to fLeviticus ranchisee, Wales. number 26 40-42 God says that if we confess, He will heal our land.

In the set upA f ranchisee area of residence, training including role play, A England and Wales. current pandemic this verse proves to be more important than ever. service and all programs/emails. Meeting with Rebecca f rom C Inv 666 Wall Art.indd 1

c p C

E Assistant/Off ice Manager Denis. Both available to help the f ranc addition our rebranding allowed us to avoid At In LevLaw we work together with upcoming UK £80-£100 and charity set upEternal costsResearch between C and are in close partnership Castle Donington Community a we potential dispute withwith another company called Church, Reverend After Roy. this point the Franchisee will start to receive incomin

Due to the fact that a previous Trademark has been set up and did not want to be in dispute Cornerstone who had set up a trademark.

If 14 – 30 days time. (Cost for Cornerstone.

Franchisee at this point is La with another company called If you wish(£500) to discuss Wills, Trusts and Powers of Attorney or any franchising A and setting up cost for Company House and DPA fe The foundation still ChiefonCornerstone, Christ, opportunities please callisour reception 0800 193 7377. Jesus If you would like oI more info about our charity please visit website www.eternalresearchuk. represented as the is King, Lion of Judah. Lev is Czech The foundation still Chief Jesus mA co.uk or come for our Sunday Service in CastleCornerstone, Donington Community for Lion, which was where the new company name Church.

7 Clapgun Street. etc Christ, represented as the College King, Lion of Judah.

4 days Course at SWEWP in Lincoln – Monthly f rom LevLaw came from.

The bible has a book Leviticus and membership feesame approx. £30 pm and Writer Pr inw LevLaw Ltd remains the and remains here for Sure you.

Lev is business Czech for Lion, which was how the Will new in The number 26 40-42 says that if we confess, Hecourse will is n SWWEPP Wills God and Estate Planning Certif icate company LevLaw came The and our yearland. onname year, more students are from. signing up tobible this course as Lw heal In the current pandemic this verse proves Planning profession as well as membership to the Society of Wi Ibemust has amore book Leviticus andever. in Tutors number 26 40-42 o to important ually developed by thethan College to maintain itself as therm estate planning. * be about God says that if we confess, He will heal our land, C MyFranchisee LevLaw Ltd which at this time Covid, this verse is very services be canof start seeking clients to provide LevLaw Ltd Initial Training Process under Franchisor’s supervision.

Father’s L Reaching new heights important. reaching new Business * Recommended 2 further Courses which runs monthly or ta LevLaw Ltd Legal LevLaw Ltdpreviously previouslyKornerstone Kornerstone Ltd have recently rebranded, due to a DAY 1 Signing Contract

at any time: Trusts – Cost £125 - one-day course w better understanding of the way trusts are used in Wil charityResearch EternalUK Research UK and we are in close Eternal and we are in close partnership with Assistant/Off ice Manager Denis. Both available to help the f ranchisee at any stage.

(Stationery In addition allowed us to avoid has £80-£100) Due theour factrebranding that a previous partnership with Castle Donnington Community and set Trademark up costs between Castle Donington Community Church, Reverend Roy. identify their client’s objectives.

SAFE • EFFICIENT •tosetPROFESSIONAL abeen potential dispute withnot another company called up and did want to be in dispute Church, Rev Roy. After thiswho point theset Franchisee will start to receive incoming business approximately 2 Wills, days Cornerstone had up a trademark.

If you wish to discuss TrustsLifetime and Powers of Trusts Course – Cost £250 - two day tru 14 – 30 days time. (Cost for Cornerstone.

Franchisee at this point is Laptop, printer purchase with another company called Attorney anythan franchising opportunities please call (£500) and setting up cost for Company House and DPA fee which or is less £60) by Klara Hesling delegates with an already existing basic knowledge of trusts. T The foundation is still Chief Cornerstone, Jesus Christ, Article If you wish to discuss Wills Trusts Powers our reception on 0800 193 7377. If you and would like of represented as the is King, Judah. Lev is Czech The foundation still Lion Chiefof Cornerstone, Jesus Attorney orour any opportunities please more info about ourFranchising charity visitintroduction website www. f rom oneplease day to trusts course and provides a m for Lion, which was where the new company name eternalresearchuk.co.uk or0800 come193 our Sunday Christ, represented as the College King, Lion of Judah. callApril our Reception on 7377 or if Service you will pass on to their children and 4 days Course at SWEWP in Lincoln – MonthlyMost 2021 Cost £590 plus people hope thatfor their estate trusts and their administration.

LevLaw came from. fee Theapprox. bible has apm book Leviticus and f rom membership £30 and Sure Will Writer Program approx. £80 pm. in Castle Donington Community Church.

7 Clapgun St. Lev is Czech for Lion, which was how the new would like more info about our charity please visit in The number 26 40-42 says that if we confess, Hecourse will grandchildren SWWEPP Wills God and Estate Planning Certif icate is now in its 20th successful year, eventually. company LevLaw came The website www.eternalresearchuk.co.uk come for and our yearland. onname year, more students are from. signing up tobible this course as a ‘fast-track’ entry into Estate heal In the current pandemic this verse proves LevLaw Ltd business remains the same or and Planning profession as well as membership to the Society of Will Writers. The course is continhas book Leviticus andever. in Tutors number 26 40-42 our Sunday Castle Donington to beamore important here Service for you.inAlso many other course available such as Sure Will W ually developed by thethan College to maintain itself as theremains most effective introduction to estate planning. * God says that if we confess, He will heal our land, 7 Clapgunfor St. many, unless careful arrangements have been ButCommunity this willChurch. not happen whichFranchisee at this time Covid, this verse is very services before this course is taken canof start seeking clients to provide made to protect their assets from being taken towards the end of their life under Franchisor’s supervision. important.

LevLaw Ltd business remains the same pay for care home fees. The solution to help protect your estate is a Will * Recommended 2 further Courses which runs monthlyto or two monthly, can be taken and remains here for you. at any time: 1-2 days When f irst business booked incorporating a get Property Protection Trust (PPT). in diary for the Franchisee, 1 Day Introduction to Trusts – Cost £125 - one-day course will enable students to a better understanding of the way trusts are used in Wills and to conf idently him to observe and give feedback, this will continue until they identify their client’s objectives.

2 days Lifetime Trusts Course – Cost £250 - two day trust course designed for competent. will bewhilst provided continuously via person A This testamentary PPToncanTraining only be executed both partners remain alive. delegates with an already existing basic knowledge of trusts. course is a good follow f rom our one day introduction to trusts course and provides a more in depth understanding of depending the skills and qualif ication of th trusts and their administration.

Upon death of the first partner, their Will on specifies that their share of the Also many other course available such as Sure Will Writer or IHTis Course. property placed into trust and names the ultimate beneficiary of this share, • RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CLEANING normally the children and grandchildren of the deceased. The surviving • FULLY INSURED • FRIENDLY LOCAL COMPANY 1-2 days When f irst business booked in diary for the Franchisee, Franchisor will accompany her/ the terms of the trust, has the unequivocal right to remain living to observe and give feedback, this will continue untilpartner, they’re happyunder to sign her/him as Our Chimney Sweeping Services: Powerhim & Traditional Brush competent. Training will be provided continuously via person if possible or via FaceTime inthethe property for the rest of their life. On the death of the second partner the depending on the skills and qualif ication of Franchisee.

Sweeping, Stove Cleaning & Servicing, Door Seal & Rope www.LevLawLtd.co.uk | info@LevLawL Trust comes to an end and the property passes to the beneficiaries.

Replacement, Smoke Testing, Cowl Fitment Luke 2:49 Legal rebranded, AgendaLtd is 2-4have days - recently One-to-one with the Franchisor (Accommodation details are enclosed) INSTALLER Franchising opportunity for the 2 days will in be:-England observations of 1st and 2nd appointments of the due to– Agenda a franchising opportunity inand Day Introduction to Franchisor, marketing strategy revealed to f ranchisee, marketing strategy1arranged within the Wales.

At LevLaw we work together with upcoming f ranchisee area of residence, laptop, we telephone/secretary work together with upcoming charity England and Wales. training including role play, set upAtonLevLaw service and all programs/emails. Meeting with Rebecca f rom C Design & Marketing and Legal Inv 666 Wall Art.indd 1

18/11/2020 09:06

Protecting Your Family’s Inheritance

19 Kirkhill | Shepshed | LE12 9PA | Freephone: 0800 193 7377 Company Number

www.LevLawLtd.co.uk | info@LevLawLtd.co.uk

19 Kirkhill | Shepshed | LE12 9PA | Freephone: 0800 193 7377 Company Number 11635657 VAT Reg Number 328741586.

As the surviving partner does not own the deceased’s share of the property Using Pure Water, We Clean: Gutters and Fascias, it is fully protected for the beneficiaries, so if the surviving partner Barge Boards, Windows & Conservatories, PV Panels requires care, or even remarries, this share of the children’s inheritance is protected. This last point can be particular interest to couples who have JET WASHING - PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS come together and have children with different partners.

To make your booking or for more information, please call: A PPT can help each person in a relationship ensuring that their children T: 01530 510833 - M: 07572122236 inherit their share of the property, while giving their surviving partner www.5starguttercleaning.co.uk 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 5 Star Gutter Cleaning Services Ltd and the proceeds to be used to purchase a new property, the terms of the Trust remain over the new property.

4 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

The true way in providing an affordable professional serv

If you are OVER 60 it will only COST YOU £75* £75 to make or update your Will.

We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - ONLY £95* £95 each LPA if instructed during the Will appointment.

Klara Your Regulated Estate Planner

Virtual, Garden and Home Appointments Available

Our prices include home visits and Inheritance Tax advice.

Property Protection Trust

Call us now for a friendly chat on: 01163 191123 www.LevLawLtd.co.uk|info@LevLawLtd.co.uk 19 Kirkhill | Shepshed | LE12 9PA VAT Reg Number 328741586.

*Our prices include VAT. These very special rates are only available if you are over 60 years old. Normal price for standard Will £125, £195 for two. We also provide Funeral Plans. LPA if instructed without a Will it is £105. LevLaw Ltd was previously Kornerstone Legal Services Ltd. LevLaw Ltd is in association with LevLaw Wealth Protection Ltd.

r n ile w Bo kdo lists ea ia Br pec S

Est 1988

KNELLER & KNELLER LTD For All Your Electrical Requirements

• Rewires • Extractor Fans • Wall Heaters • Garden Supplies • Showers • Central Heating Wiring • Burglar Alarms • Security Lighting • TV Points • Telephone Points • Emergency Lighting • Wall Lights • Storage • Heaters • Up-Grading Electrics To Present Regulations • Fire Alarms • Test & Inspections • Portable Appliance Testing All work guaranteed and complies to BS7671 Wiring Regulations.

7 Year Warranty Available

Contact Kevin for a FREE quotation T: 0116 2873404 M: 07836 734828 E: k.kneller@virginmedia.com

• Full central heating installations • Boiler replacements

Domestic - Commercial Industrial

• System upgrades • Bathroom installations

5628

• General plumbing installations and repairs • All makes of boilers serviced and repaired

We Won’t Be Beaten On Price Landlord Safety Inspection £50

Mobile: 07966 243312 Tel: 0116 238 7168

Domestic Appliance Spares & Repairs

All Leading Makes Serviced - 20 Years Experience

Washers Dryers Dishwashers Fridges Cookers ●

●

●

GAS AND ELECTRIC NOW TAKING CREDIT/DEBIT CARD PAYMENT

David Preston - Mob: 0775 262 3885

www.1-4-all.co.uk

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 5

Ozzy O’shea County Councillor

Bewildered

T: 0116 2394336 M: 07808585825 E: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

ENGLAND LOCKDOWN

STAY AT HOME

THE NEW STRAIN OF CORONAVIRUS IS SPREADING FAST. WE ALL NEED TO PLAY OUR PART TO STOP THE SPREAD.

LEAVING HOME You must not leave, or be outside of your home or garden, except for a very limited set of exemptions e.g. to shop for basic necessities, exercise, go to work if you cannot do so from home, or to escape risk of harm.

MEETING OTHERS You cannot leave your home to meet socially with anyone, except with your household or support bubble (if eligible to form one). Stay 2 metres apart from anyone not in your household or support bubble.

EXERCISE You may exercise on your own, with your household or support bubble, or with one person from another household (when on your own). Stay 2 metres apart from anyone not in your household or support bubble.

BARS, PUBS AND RESTAURANTS Hospitality closed aside from sales by takeaway (until 11pm), click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery. Alcohol cannot be purchased through takeaway or click-and-collect from hospitality venues.

WORK AND BUSINESS Everyone must work from home unless they are unable to do so.

EDUCATION Early years settings open. Primary and secondary schools and colleges move to remote provision except for vulnerable children and children of critical workers.

Most university students to move to remote learning.

LEISURE AND SPORTING FACILITIES Closed, with limited exceptions.

ACCOMMODATION

Funerals of up to 30 people permitted.

Weddings up to 6 people permitted in exceptional circumstances. Wakes and other linked ceremonial events of up to 6 permitted.

PLACES OF WORSHIP Places of worship can remain open and communal worship is permitted, but you must not mix with those outside your household or support bubble.

Twelve months ago I do recall The same thing happened to us all We woke one morning from our bunks And found that all our clothes had shrunk Perhaps the washing water’s hotter If that’s the case then I’ve just gotta Make a note for next New Year To be more careful with my gear Some say we've just indulged too much Scoffed too much Christmas pud and such Mince pies and all those nuts and sweets Schooners of port and other treats But, I protest, it's no such thing OK I may have had a fling But moderation’s more my profile Not greedy that’s just not my lifestyle But then again I don’t like waste Not one to throw food out in haste That bit of surplus Christmas pud I’ll clear it up that would be good

TRAVELLING You must stay at home. If you do leave home for a very limited set of exemptions, you should stay local in the village, town, or part of the city where you live where possible. Do not travel abroad unless an exemption applies.

Closed, with limited exceptions.

Those two mince pies left on the plate They’re almost at the use by date I’d better down those with the smidge Of the full cream left in the fridge

CLINICALLY EXTREMELY VULNERABLE PERSONAL CARE Closed.

ENTERTAINMENT Closed.

RETAIL Essential shops can open. Non-essential retail must close and can only run click-andcollect and delivery.

WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS

Article by Kirby Lad

OVERNIGHT STAYS You must not stay overnight away from home. Limited exceptions apply e.g. to stay with your support bubble.

Shielding reintroduced across England. You should not travel to work, school, college or university and should limit the time you spend outside the home. You should only go out for medical appointments, exercise or if it is essential.

CARE HOME VISITS Visits can take place with arrangements such as substantial screens, visiting pods, or behind windows. Close-contact indoor visits are not allowed. No visits will be permitted in the event of an outbreak but end of life visits are permitted in all circumstances.

For more information go to: gov.uk/coronavirus

Latest Coronavirus Update for Leicestershire We are now in Lockdown since I last wrote I hope this guide helps residents.

Summary: what you can and cannot do during the national lockdown You must stay at home. The single most important action we can all take is to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives. You should follow this guidance immediately. The law will be updated to reflect these new rules.

Leaving home You must not leave, or be outside of your home except where necessary. You may leave the home to: • shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person • go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot reasonably do so from home • exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.

• meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one • seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse) • attend education or childcare - for those eligible Colleges, primary and secondary schools will remain open only for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers. All other children will learn remotely until February half term. Early Years settings remain open.

Higher Education provision will remain online until mid February for all except future critical worker courses.

If you do leave home for a permitted reason, you should always stay local in the village, town, or part of the city where you live. You may leave your local area for a legally permitted reason, such as for work.

If you are clinically extremely vulnerable you should only go out for medical appointments, exercise or if it is essential. You should not attend work

6 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

But surely just those few small things (along with chocs and beers and gins) Can’t possibly be the reason why My clothes have shrunk, oh my oh my

Ratby Community Library Wishes You A Happy New Year Article by Joan Burton

Want to know the good news? We're open again!

We can't tell how good it is to know that it is safe to open the library again and start greeting all our friends and visitors. We see many different visitors over the week: regular borrowers, the local school children, parents and carers of younger children and of course, those who volunteer to collect and return books for their neighbours who can't get out as much as they used to.

So welcome back, all of you.

After Christmas our opening hours, starting Tuesday 5th January will be: 10am – 12 Monday, Saturday.

2pm – 4pm Tuesday, Thursday.

Closed Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

We have changed from Wednesday morning to Monday morning as a result of public requests. We are always happy to listen to public opinion and will respond if possible.

Exciting news is that contractors have been hard at work stripping out the old kitchen and preparing for a refit; at the moment, due to the ongoing work, we can't provide even our takeaway drinks but just wait...

We have an excellent stock on the shelves for borrowing but also a variety of donated books of all types which are for sale – any cash donation welcome!

The beautiful Bradgate Calendar is in stock and at £5 is very good value.

On re-opening please be assured that all Covid-19 regulations will be followed assiduously and, as ever, the volunteers will be happy to assist with helping visitors find just what they're looking for.

Here's hoping that 2021 brings us peace, prosperity and good health!

Call the team you can Trust!!!

3 Local Magazines

Testimonials on Trustatrader

Total Circulation 20,000

“The whole experience was professionally & efficiently managed, courteous & friendly. I am completely satisfied with the work done.” Mr T J Norris “Incredibly tidy, friendly and professional. A pleasure to have around, extremely honest and considerate. Superby service all round.” Mr McVeigh

WINTER SALE

UP TO 40% DISCOUNT ON ANY UPVC PRODUCTS ORDERED IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY 2021

We are also giving away FREE upgrade to Triple Glazing on all Windows FREE Downpipes with all Fascia Soffits and Guttering

Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston, Swithland, Newtown Linford, Woodhouse & Woodhouse Eaves 6,000 copies Shepshed & Hathern 7,200 copies

• Insulated Conservatory Roofs •

Ratby, Kirby Muxloe & Leicester Forest East 6,800 copies

3 Easy Ways To Book Your Advertising Plan Call

0800 6446 150

Email

sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Online

www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

All Roofs Repairs Leaks - Guttering Fixed & Cleaned Pressure Cleaning - UPVC Fascias - Soffits Exterior / Interior Painting - Gardening & Tree Care Work

FREE QUOTATIONS AND ADVICE Please keep this advert it may come in handy!

Telephone: 0116 298 6404 - Mob: 07470 204060 Small family run business established 25 years Fully qualified and insured 7 Ormen Green, Leicester, LE3 6NS djk03@hotmail.co.uk

Steve Goodger

Electrical Services

Re-wires - Extra Sockets - Lighting Burglar Alarms - Security Lighting or any other electrical problems Part P Registered Over 30 years experience in the electrical trade 29 Dalby Road, Anstey, Leicester

Call Steve on 07724 057567 www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 7

Meeting others You cannot leave your home to meet socially with anyone you do not live with or are not in a support bubble with (if you are legally permitted to form one). You may exercise on your own, with one other person, or with your household or support bubble. You should not meet other people you do not live with, or have formed a support bubble with, unless for a permitted reason. Stay 2 metres apart from anyone not in your household.

Published 4 January 2021 Early Christmas Present for Rural Pubs Money from a brand new initiative supporting struggling rural pubs is being awarded to landlords across Leicestershire, just days after the scheme launched.

Leicestershire County Council is offering a one-off payment of £1,000 to support small village pubs which are unable to open their doors over the festive period.

Around 100 have already applied, the first eight pubs are being awarded cash and another 20 being put in the post.

Launched on Friday (18 Dec), the scheme – thought to be the only one of its kind in the country - aims to keep people in jobs, maintain the role of the pub as a community hub and help them to diversify by providing extra services for residents. I have made all 4 pubs in my ward aware and totally supported their applications. Hospitality has been dealt a big blow during the pandemic. And the impact is even more acute when you consider the lifeline pubs can provide within communities.

That’s why the County Council has moved quickly to bring in support.

It’s hoped that the scheme will support up to 200 community pubs and is backed by major trade body, the British Beer and Pub Association, which represents around 20,000 of the country’s pubs.

Budget proposals 2021-25 - have your say We're encouraging residents, businesses, parish councils and partner organisations to give their views on our latest four-year budget proposals by completing a short survey. Our latest plan shows the difference between income and expenditure will reach £92m in 2025 meaning that significant savings will be required.

Investment in services including children and family services, adult social care and environment in transport is proposed as well as a £450m capital pot to spend on infrastructure and a 1.99 per cent rise in Council Tax. You can comment from 16 December 2020 until 17 January 2021 by going to Leicestershire County Councils web site, and follow Have your Say. You can also follow the following link. www.leicestershire.gov.uk/about-thecouncil/council-spending/budget-proposals-2021-25 If you would like to request printed materials, or send in additional feedback, please email: priorities@leics.gov.uk or call 0116 305 6274 Ivanhoe Trail Issues I have arranged for the Ivanhoe trail to have the leaf fall cleared off the path between Taverner Drive and the M1 Bridge. However I need to give a gentle reminder to the small minority of dog walkers, who are not picking up after their dog. Please pick up after you dog it only takes a minute. Remember you can put your dog’s poo in both the dog bins and council waste bins thank you for your co-operation.

Advance Notice of a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order A temporary traffic regulation order (TTRO) is to be made for the following location: Stamford Street, Ratby. The purpose of the TTRO is to allow Leicestershire County Council to facilitate the replacement of a street lighting column and any other associated work to the highway. The TTRO will incorporate a temporary parking restriction. The duration of the restriction is not anticipated to exceed a period of 1 day commencing on the 21st January 2021.

Scam Alert - COVID-19 Vaccine Scam Text I was contacted by a local resident after they received a Scam Text Message allegedly telling them how to book their vaccine appointment the link from the text looked like a genuine Government Website. I checked through the links and soon realised it was a scan immediately alerting Trading Standards.

They put out the below warning. I am always here to help if in doubt don’t click on anything. Please be careful.

Criminals are taking advantage of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout through a convincing scam text to steal people’s personal and financial details.

The text contains a link that leads to a convincing fake NHS website with an application form. It asks for your bank/card details in order to ‘check identity’. The NHS will not ask for payment.

Below is a copy of the Text message.

NHS: We have identified that you eligible to apply for your vaccine.

For more information and to apply. Follow here: uk-application-form.com

8 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Please warn friends and family of this scam text.

Read the full Which? article at https://bit.ly/2WWTJJc #ThinkQuickNeverClick #ScamAware Scam Warning - Fake DPD Emails and Texts Action Fraud has seen a surge in reports relating to fake emails and texts purporting to be from DPD. The messages claim that DPD was “unable to deliver your parcel today” and provide instructions on how the recipient can arrange another delivery. The links in the emails and texts lead to fake websites that are designed to steal money, as well as personal and financial information.

Victims of this scam have reported losing over £242,000 since June. For more information, please visit www.actionfraud.police.uk/alert/fake-dpdmessages-lead-to-over-200000-in-losses-since-june How you can protect yourself: • If you’re unsure whether the email or text is genuine, then don’t use the link. Instead, visit the DPD website by entering the official web address directly into your browser’s address bar, or search for it and follow the search results.

• Remember, your bank will never ask you to transfer money to another account, or contact you out of the blue to ask for your PIN or full password.

• If you have received an email which you’re unsure about, you can report it by forwarding it to report@phishing.gov.uk You can report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank residents for your continued support, remember I am only an email or a phone call away. Finally I would like to wish all residents and councillors A very Happy, Healthy and prosperous New Year.

Kind Regards Ozzy O’shea.

Working for you

Martin Tibbles

PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES

Excellent references available Interior exterior

0116 291 0489 07855 412 945

Quality Workmanship Guaranteed 38 Yrs Exp.

Free estimates and advice given

Kirby Muxloe Podiatry Practice

Practice established over 25 years.

For all your foot care needs and requirements Please call 0116 2392024 to make an appointment Treatments include the use of Local Anaesthetic for ingrowing toenails

Accredited Pratice

Diabetic Foot Health Assessment and Advice

TEL: 0116 2392024

23A Church Road, Kirby Muxloe, LE9 2AD - Email: kirbymuxloepodiatry@gmail.com

• New Guttering • Wood Staining • Repointing • Ridge Tiles • Chimney Stacks • Roof Valley • Dry Verge • Flat Roofing • Dry Ridge • Lead Flashing • Moss Removal • Slate/Tile Roofing • UPVC Fascia, Soffits & Gutters FREE QUOTATION AND FREE EMERGENCY CALL OUT Proprietor: Elias Bell 1 Maynard Close, Bagworth, LE67 1BU

Mobile: 07494820600 Telephone: 01530 231 631

Email: eandlmaintenanceltd@outlook.com

Want a home office or a garage conversion for an office to work from home?

Bring your office to home with the help of...

Building Services

Office Refit Specialist

Get in touch today for your office quote

07734405374 07973852738 contact@countycontractorsleics.co.uk www.countycontractorsleics.co.uk @CountyCon County Contractors, Groby, Leicester

david@dnhceilingsandpartitions.co.uk www.dnhceilingsandpartitions.co.uk DNH, Anstey, Leicester

• FREE home visit, quote and installation • Prompt, reliable, local service • Vertical, Venetian, Roller, Pleated Blinds • Conservatory Roof Specialist, Roof Blind Cleaning & Repair Service • Over 20 Years Experience

Tel: 0116 239 0484 or 07976 572926 www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 9

Ozzy O’shea Borough Councillor

ChrisBorough Boothby Councillor

T: 0116 2394336 M: 07808585825 E: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com Service Changes due to New Year Lockdown The majority of Borough Council services will continue in a COVID secure way through the third lockdown which begins today (5 January) and is expected to continue until at least mid-February.

Amongst the many council services that will continue and facilities that will remain open through the lockdown are: • Bin collections – refuse, recycling and garden waste, recycling sites and commercial waste, bulky and special collections plus street cleaning and servicing litter bins will continue.

• Markets on Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays (offering goods limited by law) • Station Rd public toilets will remain open • Car parks • Allotments • Playgrounds • Parks and open spaces • Emergency housing repairs • Resident Support Scheme • Business grants, advice and guidance • Choice Based Lettings and allocation of properties • Planning and planning enforcement • Benefits advice and claims service • Homelessness advice Leicestershire County Council, who operate the recycling and household waste sites (tips) in this area, have indicated that tips will remain open using the appointment system. The County Council is encouraging people to only visit the sites if it's essential and only if you have booked an appointment first. See www.leicestershire.gov.uk/popular-now/book-a-waste-siteappointment to book an appointment.

The Borough Council services and facilities listed below will be closed until lockdown restrictions are eased: • Hinckley Leisure Centre is currently closed. All memberships are frozen.

For more information see www.placesleisure.org/centres/hinckley-leisurecentre/ • Reception at Hinckley Hub will be closed to the public (except for emergencies). Please call 01455 238141 or email customer.services@ hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk for customer services.

• Outdoor gyms, ball courts and pitches, tennis courts, skate parks, bowling green and pitch and putt are closed.

• Non-essential home visits by council staff will be postponed until after the restrictions are lifted.

Churches Together Community Support Team.

Most residents will remember the Community Response Team that we both co-founded along with Rev Dr Ed Bampton on March 16th 2020. This is the new name but the essential services to local resident’s remains the same such as care packages, prescription collections and shopping. We still have volunteers who are wonderful and as key workers, they are allowed out to provide these key services to those who need help under lockdown.

Below is the poster with the telephone numbers and opening times.

We all, yet again, have a part to play to keep our community safe until we reach better times. Take care of each other and stay safe.

T: 0116 2912796 M: 07306 390543 E: chris.boothby@hotmail.com

We both sincerely hope you had the best possible Christmas that you all could under the then restrictions and now as we head into 2021 under another lockdown in order to reduce the Covid-19 infections in Ratby, we are both working hard in conjunction with partner agencies to keep you all as safe as possible. Whilst we are all in the same boat, we are both still here to help all of you if you need us in terms of Borough Council Services. As we always say, we are only a phone call away. We want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support.

Regards Chris & Ozzy.

Working for you.

Paul’s Decorating Service Painting & papering

Family run business

Competitive prices

Reliable and conscientious

Fully insured

Great eye for detail!

Contact Paul Spence now:

T 0116 285 4279 M 07554 028116 E paul@paulsdecoratingservice.co.uk

S.A.S. LANDSCAPING GARDEN DESIGN AND MAINTENANCE We are a small local, friendly team, happy to carry out all aspects of garden work.

Slabbing and Block Paving • Fencing and Turfing Hedge Cutting and All Tree Work Decking, Pergolas and All Timberwork All Types of Maintenance 25 Years Experience - All Work Guaranteed For a free quote and design call Sean on 0116 2121841 or 07856 516 335 Email: woolster1970@gmail.com

10 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Antiques Garden Salvage Brocante & so much more!

Quality Fitted Kitchens, Bedrooms and Home Studies Local Family Run Business

Plantation Window Shutters Now Available

New Yard & Rooms Now Open!

Leicester Road, Lutterworth, LE17 4HF 01455 553 558 www.lutterworthantiques.co.uk Follow us on instagram: @LutterworthAntiques

Tel (0116) 255 66 69 www.holmfields.co.uk 17 Carlisle Street Leicester LE3 6AH Showroom (Mon-Fri) 9.00am - 5.00pm

Something to sell?

Email jwrightsec@hotmail.com

Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm

Your local All Regions.indd 1

ESMED Non Surgical Facial Aesthetic Medicine Excessive Sweating Treatment

50% off your first consultation • • • • • • •

Anti-Wrinkle Injections Excessive Sweating / Hyperhidrosis Treatment Jaw Line Reduction / Teeth Grinding Lips Smokers’ Lines Puckering Chin Nefertiti Lift Obagi Medical Skin Care @Esmed.ltd

Esmed Dr Ewa

Dr Ewa Sondej - JCCP Member

07834 619 454 - esmed.ltd@gmail.com 23A Church Road LE9 2AD Kirby Muxloe

07/12/2020 16:42:10

Cleaning your windows the safe way • WINDOW CLEANING • CONSERVATORY ROOFS • UPVC CLEANING • FASCIA & SOFIT CLEANING • SOLAR PANEL CLEANING • SHOP SIGNAGE CLEANING • GUTTER CLEANING & CLEARING

Mobile: 07900 684 732 cwhcleaningservices@yahoo.co.uk

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 11

RATBY PRIMARY SCHOOL Christmas Food Bank Appeal Thank you to our parents and staff for their generous donations to our Reverse Advent Appeal. Every day a different year group brought in a suggested item for the Churches Together Community Support Team, who are collecting for people in the local community who are in need. We had contributions of tins, toiletries, dried goods but to name a few. These will be distributed before Christmas, and will support the most vulnerable families in our area.

Decorations Day Ratby Primary School celebrated the lead up to Christmas with our annual Decorations Day on Friday 4th December 2020. Each class spent the day making some super creative decorations to display at home this Christmas.

The enthusiasm and creativity displayed by all year groups was incredible and the children worked very hard to create their own unique designs for each of their decorations.

We all had a very fun-filled day and got to showcase our fantastic art and design skills. We wish you all a very merry Christmas!

STEM Challenges We have had a great week taking part in some STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and Science challenges this week! Our Foundation stage children tested liquids to see which would make the ginger bread man dissolve the quickest, and our Year 1’s tested ice decorations to see which conditions affected how quickly they would melt. Year 2 were challenged to make the tallest snowman out of marshmallows and spaghetti. In lower KS2, Year 3 had to create 3D present shapes out of midget gems and cocktail sticks and in Year 4 they used the same materials to make trees and chairs for the Christmas teddies. In Upper KS2, Year 5 made Christmas scenes using recyclable materials and Year 6 made Christmas Sculptures. Well done to all the children for using their imagination, being creative and making great predictions! We also would like to congratulate Ayla in Year 5, who won a runner up prize in the Glass Guardians Science competition!

Growth Mindset In Year 6 Since we started back at school at the start of the academic year, we have been teaching the children about the difference between having a fixed and a growth mindset.

The children have responded really well to these lessons. It is a very powerful idea that intelligence is expandable and is not fixed or static. This concept is encouraging the children to become more resilient and take more ownership of their own learning. We are very impressed with the positive and hard-working attitude that the children have had during the Autumn term. They are certainly showing their growth mindset.

Nativity 2020 Christmas Jumper Day On Friday 11th December, we all got to go to school in our Festive Christmas jumpers, to help raise money for a charity called ‘Save the Children’. We were all asked to donate a small amount of money and it was lovely to see everyone in their colourful jumpers.

To make it extra special, it was Christmas dinner day, which was yummy. We raised a fantastic £271!

By Riah, Year 5

12 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

The Nativity is a big part of Key Stage 1 in the Autumn Term.

Therefore, we couldn’t have a year without performing for our parents and classes. The whole school learnt songs in their bubbles and we created a virtual Nativity. Year 1 acted out the traditional First Christmas and Year 2 narrated each scene. This was edited together to make a fantastic performance which we shared with our families at home. The staff even added their own version of Slade’s, ‘Merry Christmas Everybody!’ A huge THANK YOU to Reverend Bampton and the Church for paying for a fantastic performance of ‘Hark- A Nativity Story’ by The Saltmine Theatre Company. The children really enjoyed the performance.

0116 234 0548

Home & Leisure Blinds Verticals

Pleated

Venetians

Fly Screens

Rollers

Awnings

Romans

Curtains

FREE Consultation FREE Fitting Home Visit Blinds Made To Measure In The UK

We can take care of every detail, advise and help you on each and every step of the way.

• Qualified Funeral Directors • Floral Tributes arranged • Hearse, Limousines and alternatives available • Monumental Service • Car parking available

• Online tribute and donation profile • Catering suite • Chapels of rest • Funeral plans available • 24 hour service

Funeral arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home if preferred.

To book your FREE consultation please contact us on:

0116 3650 167 www.homeshading.co.uk blinds@homeshading.co.uk

Talbott House, Leicester Road, Anstey, Leicester, Leicestershire LE7 7AT Email: talbotthouse@ansteyfunerals.com Website: www.ansteyfunerals.com

• TV & Radio Aerials • Satellite Dishes Fitted • Low Signal Specialists • Extra TV Points • OAP Discounts • Digital Signal Meter Testing • RDI-LB Qualified • 20 years experience • City and Guilds Trained

FREE ADVICE AND QUOTES

Call Craig Harrison on: 0116 2505 848

0116 2393855

64 Acres Road, Leicester Forest East

14 The Hollow, Hight Street, Earl Shilton, Leicestershire LE9 7NA Telephone: Earl Shilton 01455 842271 Facsimile: 01455 842725

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 13

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 Unfortunately, due to the Corona virus (Covid-19), all our meetings are cancelled until further notice. This includes our new “Memories” meetings, held at the Library meeting room each month. We will continue to support “Your Local” magazine with our monthly articles. Stay safe, follow government advice and if you are out and about, practice social distancing. For the latest details about meetings, see our website.

Carers Needed • Competitive hourly rate • Paid annual holidays • Fortnightly / Weekly payment • Company pension plan and more

Leicester & Surrounding areas Contact us: 0116 218 4989

Email us: leicester@myhomecare.co.uk

Visit us: The Old Rectory, Main Street, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8DG

Website: www.myhomecare.co.uk

Helping you remain independent in your home

Flight Lt Reid with his wife and mother after receiving the D.F.C.at Buckingham Palace. Photo courtesy of Caroline Elton

Major Reid and Reid and Sigrist of Desford Aerodrome Flight Lieutenant George Hancock Reid was born in Stonehouse, Devon in 1889. He was the son of Florence Hancock and George Ewen Reid, an Able Seaman. His parents married in 1885, but divorced just after George junior was born. It is not clear what happened to his biological father after the divorce but by 1911, George Hancock Reid was living with his mother Florence and step father Walter Epton and family in Camberwell, London. He was aged 22 and was an engineering student. Flight Lt George Hancock Reid was one of the first flyers to be awarded the D.F.C. (Distinguished Flying Cross) when it was established in 1918, just after the end of WWI. A report in the London Gazette on 21st September 1918 is as follows - “As a pilot of a short seaplane he was engaged in a raid on Zepplin sheds in Schleswig-Holstein (north west Germany) on 25 March 1916, in which he displayed great courage, ability and resource under the most trying circumstances, which included flying in a snow storm and immersion for over 3 hours in the sea”. Flight Lt. Reid was accompanied on this mission by Chief Petty Officer Richard Mullins and we understand that while returning to the Vindex, his seaplane carrier, Flight Lieutenant Reid attempted the rescue of another pilot stranded in the North sea. It is said that he plucked the pilot from the stranded seaplane and strapped him to an outer part of his aircraft, then headed back to the Vindex. Unfortunately, before he

14 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Short or long visits daily or weekly Trained and DBS checked staff Consistent carers, Consistent times • • • • • • •

Care at Home and Support Live in Care Befriending Service Meal Provision Personal Care Cleaning Waking Nights

Contact us: 0116 218 4989

Email us: leicester@myhomecare.co.uk

Visit us: The Old Rectory, Main Street, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8DG

Website: www.myhomecare.co.uk

CERT IFI E

BRITISH S TO TA

A local family firm ARD ND

D

BSI

3 6 2 1:1

98

0

• UPVC Door lock specialists • Cylinders, mechanisms, handles and letterboxes • Jammed, stiff to lock / unlock doors repaired

CUT OUT AND KEEP

• All types of locks opened, repaired, supplied and fitted • Police approved and CRB checked • Security upgrades / burglary repairs

24 HOUR EMERGENCY CALL OUT

0116 202 9848 www.dm-locksmiths.co.uk

“Need An Electrician?”

“Do you find it hard to get someone to do your small jobs?”

You’ll get value for money because our pricing is competitive

• Rewires

• Internet Cabling

• Emergency Call Outs

• USB Sockets

• Fuse Boards

• Outside Sockets

Returning Customers account for 74% of our work - that says it all about the quality of our work and the friendliness in our service

• Sockets

• Fault Finding

We give you five years guarantee on our labour

• Lights

• Security Lighting

• Showers

• Testing Certificates

We’re NICEIC registered - so we’re assessed on a regular basis to ensure the highest standard of care are always met

• Extractor Fans

• Smoke Alarms

• Led Spot Lights

• Commercial

“If you can’t see what you want here we’ll probably do it – just ask”

For your FREE Quotation Call Us Today

Always leave things clean and tidy All our team are smartly uniformed and we train them to always be prompt, polite and professional (and they smile a lot) We’ll turn up when we say we will

Amy our star apprentice

Call us NOW on

Unit 5, The Mill Lane Industrial Estate, Mill Lane, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8DX

Email: info@glenfieldelectrical.com

Website: www.glenfieldelectrical.com

0116 2873226

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 15

reached the safety of his carrier, he was forced to land on the water again, due to engine trouble in the snowstorm. All he could do was to taxi back in the direction of the Vindex, but he was soon spotted and surrounded by a motor boat carrying German soldiers and two German seaplanes, which landed alongside him. He was a prisoner of war until the Armistice in 1918, despite trying to escape several times, including jumping from a fast moving train.

George Reid studied engineering and was one of a few people to be awarded a Whitworth Scholarship, a prestigious award granted to engineering students. He married his wife Eva Sweetman, in 1915, at All Saint’s, Springfield, Essex and began his post-war career by renting a bench in the Hawker factory in Richmond, in order to work on his own designs and inventions. In 1928, the private company of Reid and Sigrist was formed by George Hancock Reid and Frederick Sigrist who, at the time, was a joint managing director of H.G. Hawker Engineering. Initially the company had premises in Hampstead, North London, then Kingston on Thames and in 1935, New Malden in Surrey. Major Reid had already invented and produced several important pieces of apparatus for the aviation industry. One of his most famous inventions was the “turn and bank” indicator, which when further developed and was used by the R.A.F. from 1937 onwards. With WWII looming, the company applied to run one of the new Civilian Flying schools, set up to train new pilots. In order to be successful in this new venture, they were required to posess an airfield. Therefore, still in 1935, they purchased Desford Aerodrome and some surrounding land. By the end of the year, the new Flying Training School was opened by Vicount Swinton of Masham. By 1937, with the ever more focus on a war, the school expanded to train R.A.F. Volunteer Reserve pilots. With the commencement of WWII, Reid and Sigrist were recruited into the Civilian Repair Organisation by the Ministry of Defence, to repair damaged R.A.F. aircraft. Many people in the village worked for the company in the war years and beyond.

Major Reid and his family moved to The Cliffe, in Kirby Fields in 1935. Their household comprised of James, the butler, Bella, the cook, Marion the housemaid and Mary the kitchenmaid. Their chauffeur was a Mr Graham of Kirby Muxloe whilst Mrs Graham looked after Mrs Reid’s wardrobe and attended to the laundry.

During WWII, they certainly led a busy life. Whilst Major Reid was managing Director of Reid and Sigrist, his wife Eva was in charge of all female personnel, R.A.F. auxilliary accommodation and all messing arrangements. During the bombing of 1940, a string of High Explosive bombs dropped in the field behind the Cliffe. According to the A.R.P. report book on Sunday November 24th, Major Reid phoned the report post to say that “a bomb crater in the Tyrrell’s garden was full of water and ‘sissling’”. The Tyrell family lived at Holmwood, Holmwood Drive, Kirby Fields. As the Major could not raise any A.R.P.’s at the time, he decided to go and inspect the bomb himself. However, by this time Mr Pick, whose house on Hinckley road was one of the Report Posts, had arrived, assessed the bomb and decided that it was indeed an unexpoloded bomb. Mr Tyrell’s house and the gardener’s cottage were evacuated. Unfortunately, we do not have any records to confirm that it was a UXB. It has also been said that not all the H.E. bombs that fell on Blood’s Hill and surrounding area exploded that night - are they still in the ground? We may never know.

At the end of WWII, the company received a request from the British Government to make the Reid Camera. This was based on designs of the Leica camera, made in Germany. The camera went on sale in 1951. At some point Reid and Sigrist (possibly in the 1960’s/’70’s, after they were taken over by Decca) had offices on Scudamote Road, Braunstone. Major Reid and his wife retired in 1955/56 and lived out the rest of their lives in St Saviour, Jersey. Major Reid died in 1969.

Information courtesy of Caroline Elton and Island wiki.

16 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

G E GAMBLE & SONS INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS —–––––––––– ESTABLISHED 1830 —–––––––––-

57 HIGH STREET SYSTON, LEICESTER, LE7 1GQ

TEL: 0116 2607500 A FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS OFFERING A PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 24 HOURS A DAY FUNERALS ARRANGED IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME OR AT OUR UNIQUE 17TH CENTURY THATCHED COTTAGE PROPRIETOR MR RICK ASTILL

www.gamblefunerals.co.uk MEMBERS OF SAIF AND NAFD

LET OUR FAMILY LOOK AFTER YOUR FAMILY FOR FREE ADVICE AND GUIDANCE

There’s no need to replace the window - we will replace the glass unit for you Just cal our small, friendly firm - whether it’s one window or a full house - with approximate sizes, and we’ll give you a price OVER THE PHONE or a free call out if you prefer.

advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have

any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems.

Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution… Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118.

We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote.

A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes.

Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it.

With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an

industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Richard Burke and he services the Shepshed & Hathern areas.

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Richard a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear Windows...

Service With A Smile!

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 Mins!!!

WINTER SALE NOW ON ZANUSSI

BOSCH

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 8kg Load Capacity A+++ Rated 2yr Guarantee

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 7kg Load Capacity A+++ Rated Express Wash

ZWF81443W

14 Programmes

WAJ28008GB

15 Programmes

Blomberg

HOTPOINT

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 7Kg Load Capacity 28 Min Fast Full Load 16 Programmes A+++AB Rated

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 7kg Load Capacity A+++ Rated 45min Rapid Wash

LWF174310W

NSWE742UWS

White

BOSCH

BEKO

Built-In Dishwasher 12 Place Settings 4 Programmes Time Delay Noise Level 50db A+ Rated

Tall Freezer Frost Free A+ Rated 168 Ltr (Net) White H145 W54.5 D59cm

SMV40C40GB

Fitted Kitchens We are pleased to announce that we are now agents for A.W.E Kitchens and Bedrooms Who specialise in Bespoke made to measure kitchen & bedroom furniture Please call in for further details

FREE DELIVERY with Personal Service

“Ask About our Same Day/Next Day Installation and Removal Service”

FCFM1545W

ANSTEY

2 Triumph Road, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8FR

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 17

Ratby Surgery Patient Participation Group Article by Joan Hawkins

Coronavirus vaccinations You may be aware that Ratby Surgery was one of the 1st practices to start immunising their patients along with , Desford, Newbold Verdon and Earl Shilton practices The practices worked together to arrange for patients to be vaccinated in Earl Shilton's premises as they were the largest out of the four practices and so safest for patients. This made it possible for our practice to be able to offer Covid vaccination to everyone over 80 years old from W/C 14th December. Uptake was very good despite the travelling issue and with some support from volunteers the surgery were able to make sure all those that wanted it could get there. All of these patients have since received a 2nd dose.

Have you made a Will?

“A will is the only way to make sure your savings and possessions go to the people and causes that you care about.

It is so important - please don’t put it off” We can help with advice on: Wills & Estate Planning, Trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney, Probate & Funeral Planning Call now for peace of mind - Our fees are VERY reasonable Full Member of the Society of Will Writers True Blue Wills Ltd Your local Will Writers and Estate Planners

0800 6122 818 enquiries@truebluewills.com www.truebluewills.com Pictured in the check dress is 86yr old Averil Ingram and next to her is June Finney aged 90 yrs. Both said they were so happy and felt privileged to be among the first to receive their vaccine. Both ladies said that it was well organised and there is nothing to be worried about Neither have experienced any side effects and both are extremely grateful to the practice for this service.

The PPG are pleased to welcome a new receptionist. Her name is Debbie.

In the next update we will have further information about the vaccination programme as well as news about the building application The PPG wish all patients at ratby surgery a very healthy and happy new year.

Local Computer Sales and Repairs established 2005

Prompt, Reliable Service with Jargon Free Help & Advice New PC's, Laptops & Software supplied including Set Up PC Security Checks and Malware or Virus removal Repairs, Upgrades and Help with using Software Networks and System Configuration Engineer visits available at a time to suit you Open Mon - Fri 8am to 8pm, Sat 9am to 5pm Telephone 0116 2395389 support@icncomputers.co.uk www.icncomputers.co.uk

18 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 19

YOUR LOCAL GARAGE

Ask us about our incredible 0% interest no credit check 4 month payment plan

BRAKES

SUSPENSION

TYRES

MOT

SERVICING

DIAGNOSTICS

Using our wealth of knowledge and expertise, we conduct MOTs, Servicing, Diagnostics and carry out in-house repairs on Cambelts, Clutches, Tyres, Engines, Exhausts, Brakes, Suspension and much more...

Each job is completed to the highest standard, but comes at a very competitive price, offering real value for money.

GIVE US A CALL TODAY 01455 822 002 Email: info@foresthillautocentre.co.uk - www.foresthillautocentre.co.uk Forest Hill Auto Centre Unit 3 Sparkenhoe Works Desford Lane Kirby Muxloe Leicestershire LE9 2BF

Forest Hill Golf & Conference Centre

FIND US HERE

Ratby

Botcheston

Newtown Unthank

Sparkenhoe Works

Kirby Muxloe Desford