May 2023 Your Local Ratby, Kirby Muxloe & Leicester Forest East

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Carnivore/Ketogenic Diets and Physical/ Mental/Spiritual Health

Article by Alan Chapman

I report here monthly on the increasing adoption of 'Low Carb' nutrition, lifestyle and education by health professionals and NHS.

The fuller term is 'Low Carb High Fat' or 'LCHF'.

On 22 March 2023, the FREE resources + app of LowCarbFreshwell.co.uk were accredited by QISMET and NICE for use THROUGHOUT the NHS.

In other words, the Freshwell LCHF lifestyle education is now NHS-approved to treat and reverse TYPE 2 DIABETES, PREDIABETES and OBESITY.

This is also reversing the unhealthy alliances between 'Big Food', 'Big Pharma', 'Big Tech' with the misguided politics and education systems, especially in health and community wellbeing.

The successes and budgetary savings of LCHF education/adoption - so that millions of people are now ending their dependencies on expensive pharmaceuticals and so don't become chronically ill requiring expensive operationsare irresistible.

Increasingly we are each taking more responsibility for our own 'holistic health' (mind, body spiritual), and teaching our children too! It is natural and how we are evolved and designed to be!

Prediabetes - which is an early stage of METABOLIC ILLNESS - is commonly indicated if your waist measurement is more than half of your height, although some people can be metabollically unhealthy and be very lean. Each of us is different.

At the root of this is:

• Carbohydrates are sugars, and turn to glucose in our bloodstream.

• Fats such as butter and lard are healthy and DO NOT MAKE US FAT.

• WHAT MAKES US FAT is sugars, carbs, ultra-processed foods and drinks, 'low fat' products', and 'sitting indoors' lifestyles staring at unhealthy screens, esp late at night.

My experiences and work in suicide, its prevention and its causes and effectsINDIVIDUALLY and SOCIETALLY - have taught me that NUTRITION and LIFESTYLE, to reduce INFLAMMATION and STRESS - are the keys to achieving and sustaining physical and emotional health - our LIFE BALANCE - for our whole lives - individually, in our families and in our communities.

Everything is connected, and everything is for a reason, especially when we don't understand the reason at the time!

'Freshwell Digital' grew via the success of the Freshwell Low Carb Project in Essex 2019, later extending to Colne Valley Primary Care Network. Freshwell was founded by two NHS (still) practising NHS GPs, based initially on the work of PublicHealthCollaboration.org. Placebo/ nocebo (optimism/pessimism) and consciousness are also significant factors in our healthy life balance, and in determining external realities too!

WHAT WE IMAGINE BECOMES OUR REALITIES! And so our optimistic thoughts and feelings help our minds and bodies to heal, and help others to heal too.

When we imagine a peaceful harmonious healthy prosperous local community, so we make it happen!

Alan and Maria's (LiveWildLiveFree.org cofounders) combined life experience will soon be 130 years, across a wide variety of sectors; corporate/employed and multinational; and over 60 years running our own different businesses. We're each highly trained and qualified in nutrition, improving human health, longevity, and societal health too. We're each in excellent natural health, and we rely wholly on our natural immunity, good diet, exercise and lifestyle to keep well, fit, resilient, very active, and physically growing stronger (gym-work and weightlifting, etc); always learning and creating, and in many ways becoming younger.

YOU CAN TOO! Just imagine it!

We are PHC (Public Health Collaboration) Ambassadors, HealthResults.com Practitioners, Nutrition-Network.org Advisors, and Practitioners for The-PHA.org (The People's Health Alliance). We guide individuals, employers and communities in nutrition, natural healthy lifestyles, wellbeing and healing.

Please note: This content is information not clinical diagnosis. Each of us is different, so our genetics and ancestry are also factors in what diets and lifestyles best suit us individually.

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• Sleep is hugely significant for our health, healing and life balance.

• Walking, especially in nature and daylight and sunshine, is hugely helpful for good sleep, and also for reversing/curing our addictions (to sugars, carbs, gambling, shopping, alcohol, tobacco, vaping, hoarding, whatever else, including 'beating ourselves up for not being good enough').

The fact is that we are each doing our best and each of us is perfect in our own ways, as we navigate life and our own sensing of our own meaning and purpose.

Our LIFE BALANCE is ever changing and is a process not a state.

Reference sources: PublicHealthCollaboration. org, LowCarbFreshwell.co.uk, HealthResults. com, Nutrition-Network.org, and other highly qualified NHS practising GPs and dietary professionals, especially in successfully treating obesity, diabetes and other chronic illnesses including depression. If you are under treatment/ on medication, show your doctor the resources here, especially LowCarbFreshwell.co.uk/ freshwell-digital and PHCuk.org.

Alan Chapman has particular experience in suicide prevention and education: healing of addictions, traumas, grief - individually and societally - community wellbeing and empowering healthy transformation. See also LiveWildLiveFree.org/election.

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Ratby Library Community Group

Article by Robin O’Brien

Charity Commission Number 1164252

King Charles Coronation

Thus begins the Carolean Era. To celebrate, our church, St Philip and St James held a live screening of the coronation and the Ratby Cooperative Band organised the Big lunch in the orchard. Because the Bank Holiday May 8th had been dedicated a National Day of Volunteering, the library had a role in organising village litter picking along with the Cubs and Scouts.

Judging by the energy shown by our library volunteers and friends in making these exquisite, crocheted crowns, there is no lack of enthusiasm for the coronation. Inside every one of these colourful souvenirs that volunteer Lynne is holding is a Ferrero Rocher to enjoy whilst celebrating. They have been selling fast! King Charles is hoping that the Big Help Out, which took place countrywide, will have created a lasting volunteering legacy. Which leads us to…

A Volunteer in the Spotlight

Keith has been with us a year now and we are lucky to have him onboard. He takes care of the grounds, tending to the large, grassed areas and hedges front and back, and uses his skills for a multitude of maintenance jobs that occur on a frequent basis. Whether plumbing or woodwork, he gets the job done. He is also well known on the Residential Park Homes in Ratby assisting residents with their needs.

Keith is Canadian, born and raised in Nova Scotia. His father was always giving his spare time entertaining by playing the accordion, guitar, and singing to delight people for many years in old folks homes and adult care facilities; in 2007, he was honoured to be given the GG Caring Canadian Award by the Governor General of Canada for lifelong service in volunteering. Growing up with those influences, Keith, along with his three brothers, soon took up volunteering roles. Keith too, was recognised and appreciated for his endeavours. He became Vice President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters. He would take children into the outback to teach them to use the woods ethically and safely - a much-needed skill because of the vastness of the Canadian wilderness.

Thank you, Keith.

Regarding the library maintenance, thanks must also be given to Ratby cleaning company PureWater Clean who regularly give their time to clean our windows; it is much appreciated!

Murder Mystery Evening

On Saturday June 10th there will be a murder committed in the library! Ok not really, but there will be a table for dinner guests who will each be a murder suspect and play a well-known person from the Swinging Sixties. An evening of peace, love and rock and roll. You get the idea. If this appeals to you, hurry to book a place, as there’s only space for ten diners.

£15 per person with three course meal included. Fancy dress optional. Mary Jane Faithless anyone?

The New Garden Café

An exciting new venue for Ratby is the new library café garden and work has already started on the project. The garden will be multi-purpose, serving the butterflies and bees, who will be busy

in the pollination areas, as well as café tables and chairs on the patio for customers to enjoy a latte with a slice of cake perhaps. The lawn of all-weather Astro turf can be used for the little ones to play on, whilst enjoying an ice cream from our freezer which has now been restocked. Perfect for a sunny afternoon, whether after school or in the holidays!

This watercolour painted by library volunteer Estelle gives an impression of how the garden will look as the plants mature.

New!

For the first time, our resident quizmaster Stephen Roche is hosting a quiz for kids. Aged 7 to 12 they are invited to form a team of four with one adult supervising to enjoy and compete in a fun-filled early evening competition. £10 per team with pizza and juice included.

Finally

Our regular dates include: Bingo and Quiz nights, Monday evening Craft club, Chair Yoga with Clara on Tuesday mornings, Wriggly Readers on Thursday mornings and board games morning on Fridays. Come along to find a partner for chess, scrabble or crib or just to chat.

Not to be forgotten, we also lend out books! Coming next month, a feature on our new additions.

Normal Library Opening Hours:

Monday 10am-12.30 & 2pm-4.30pm

Tuesday 2pm-4.30pm

Wednesday 2pm-5pm

Thursday 2pm-4.30pm

Friday 10am-1pm & 2pm-4.30pm

Saturday 10am-12.30

Article by Penny Wright

Holiday Reading

With two bank holidays over and another at the end of the month it’s definitely time to select your holiday reading.

Going far? Buy recycled books which can be read by the pool and then discarded to make space for all those souvenirs. We’ve set up a table of varied genres featuring all the romances but we are still offering our sale of crime/thrillers on a separate shelving unit so it’s easy to find favourite authors. Both areas will be constantly swapped / topped up with fresh books for you to buy. There is also a unit of children’s sale books to check out. Please help us to make way for more books passed on from our generous visitors. Feel free to bring a carrier bag and just make a donation for what you take away.

Meeting Room

The library meeting room is for hire at £8 per hour (£5 for charities).

Library Garden

Don’t forget to use our garden for meet-ups, teas and snacks or just to sit in a warm spot and read a book! This is a safe place for little ones to run about while parents and carers have a rest!

Café

On May 27th Our popular home-made cakes are on sale at the coffee morning. This is held every 4th Saturday in the month when cakes can be enjoyed with coffees, teas and other snacks. Cold drinks and ice creams are always available.

Cream Teas

Scones served with Rodda’s clotted cream and strawberry jam

24th June

2.00 - 4.00pm

Part of the Midsummer Festival

Rolls-Royce Retired Employees Association

Article by Graham Burton

On the 6th June our walk & talk group will meet at Ockbrook. The 13th June members will meet at Rolls-Royce Leisure from 12:30 to 2:00pm. New members will be made most welcome to this event. On the 25th June members are going on a five day break to Northern Ireland.

Anthony Norton

01332 703996 Email: anthonynorton@outlook.com

Graham Askew

Email: hazelburton44@gmail.com

Surname Anagram Pairs

Each of the clues below refers to two different people who have surnames that are anagrams of each other. Can you name all of these people?

First Irish actor to play James Bond / Author of the autobiography Losing My Virginity

Footballer who was top scorer at Euro 2008 / Singer who was the frontman of the Four Seasons

Singer who had a backing group called Dawn / First footballer with a billion dollars in career earnings

Photographer briefly married to Adolf Hitler / Singer who married Nicole Kidman in 2006

Singer from the pop group Soft Cell / Actor who played Sirius Black in the Harry Potter films

Actress regarded as the first “Bond girl” / Founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken

Russian tennis player who won the US Open in 2000/Actor who played Spike in the film Notting Hill

Singer who had a hit single in 1984 called Footloose / Actor who starred in the film La La Land

Comedian on whose show The Simpsons first appeared / Actor who played Joe in the 1998 film My Name Is Joe

Actress nicknamed the “blonde bombshell” / Artist responsible for Campbell’s Soup Cans

See page 25 for answers

Kirby Muxloe Free Church Holiday At Home 2023

Article by Paul Wisdish

June 27th -29th, Celebrating 'Gardens'

Arranged by Kirby Muxloe Free Church, Main Street, Kirby Muxloe, LE9 2AN.

An opportunity for fun, fellowship, games, quizzes, entertainment, lunches, a day out, and much more. All welcome. Places are limited. Primarily for senior citizens.

Application forms are now available from Kirby Muxloe Free Church office.

E-mail: admin@kirbyfree.org Tel: 0116 2393173

Ratby Cinema Club For Senior Citizens

Article by Joan Hawkins

Ratby Parish Church

Church Lane

LE6 0JE

Film starts at 2.00pm

Doors open 1:15pm

9th June

7th July

18th August

15th September

13th October

10th November

8th December

Refreshments available after the film. There is no formal cost for admission however we do hold a small raffle and all donations go towards our holiday at home week for senior citizens.

Due to our licencing restrictions, we are only allowed to advertise the film title in the church building.

For more information, please contact Joan Hawkins Tel:

07545909868

A Long Stay For Doug, Otter And Buddy

Article by Grace Fletcher

Leicester Animal Aid is appealing to the public to help find their longest staying dogs – Doug, Otter and Buddy - loving and responsible homes. These boys have been with the Leicestershire-based re-homing charity for several months now, Doug and Otter for almost a year, but despite appeals on social media, they are still being overlooked. Finding the right home is a bit like matchmaking; new owners must have a lifestyle that is compatible with their new best friend, and an understanding of any behavioural quirks. These dogs are looking for a new home where they are the only pet and will be living with adults only. They have had some interest, but they haven't found their perfect match yet. Could their quirks be what you are looking for? Maybe you, or someone you know, could offer them the right environment to thrive in.

Doug, a 1-2-year-old Golden Retriever, is lively and full of character. He loves to carry his favourite blanket around and will bark to let you know when he’s ready for breakfast! Doug needs help learning to trust humans, as he has been left feeling nervous of new people. The Charity is surprised that he is still there after over 12 months. Doug does need a very patient owner who is experienced with his breed, as he is possessive of his toys and needs someone who can manage his behaviour within the home when he feels overwhelmed.

Otter, a 1-2-year-old Akita, is a handsome and cheeky chap who is very intelligent and loves to play football. He is unsure of new environments, though the kennel team at L.A.A. say he has grown hugely in confidence, and they are hoping to find an owner who can continue helping him with this. Otter would be best with someone who has lots of time for him and will be understanding of his needs. He would make a great walking companion if heading somewhere quiet and rural.

Buddy, a 5-6-year-old Lurcher, is a real sweetheart and loves his cuddles once he has built up confidence and a bond with someone. He enjoys an active lifestyle with plenty of quiet walks, and absolutely loves hotdogs! Buddy can be a bit of a worrier and did not have the best start in life. The Centre is looking for a patient owner to help build his confidence and give him plenty of love and reassurance that he needs.

You can contact Leicester Animal Aid by calling 01455 888257, or visit the website www.leicesteranimalaid.org.uk

Ratby Village Hall In Main Street

Article by Elaine Sharp

The hall is run by a small committee and is self supporting. The building was erected in the 1950's and used for various purposes over the years.

At present we offer the hall for hire to a number of groups, including a Dance Academy for children, exercise classes and an art group. We class these as our "regulars".

Children’s parties are also popular. Ratby Rascals is a group for younger children and takes place on Monday mornings.

Our Evergreen Club (open to seniors) is also popular. Arranging day trips and short break holidays, pick up points in the village is a real plus.

Bingo is played twice a week and of course they often celebrate birthdays and other special occasions.

Another popular event is our Thursday morning "Drop In" and has been running for over 20 years. The "Drop In" is open to everyone. Coffee, tea is £1 and a warm welcome is extended to everyone.

For more information please contact Elaine Sharp Tel 0116 2387193

Glenfield Gardeners’ Association Annual Show

Article by Alison Robinson

St. Peter’s Church Centre Church Road, Glenfield Saturday 19th August 2023 2.15 pm

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

More information contact...

Tel: 0116 2321120

Email: glenfieldgardeners@ gmail.com

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AEIOU

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

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

__________________________

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

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

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

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

__________________________

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

__________________________

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

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

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

National Garden Scheme Leicestershire

Open Gardens May & June 2023

Article by Carol Bartlett

Late spring is a great time to our visit gardens and we have gardens opening all over Leicestershire.

The last garden to open in May is Westbrooke House on Sunday 28th from 10-4.30 at 52 Scotland Road, Little Bowden, Market Harborough, LE16 8AX. The gardens comprise 6 acres in total with a tree lined driveway of mature limes and giant redwoods. There is a walled flower garden, walled kitchen garden, fernery, lower garden, wildlife pond, spring garden, lawns, woodland paths and a meadow with a wildflower area, ha-ha and hornbeam avenue.

The first garden to open in June is Gladstone Street on Saturday 3rd June and Sunday 4th June from 11:00-5:00 at 28 Gladstone Street, Wigston Magna, Leicestershire, LE18 1AE. Our mature 70'x15' town garden is divided into rooms and bisected by a pond with a bridge. It is brimming with unusual hardy perennials, inc collections of ferns and hostas. David Austin roses chosen for their scent feature throughout, inc a 30' rose arch. A shade house with unusual hardy plants and a Hosta Theatre. Regular changes to planting.

On Saturday 3rd June from 11:00-4:00. The Old Rectory, Main Street, Newbold Verdon, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE9 9NN. The garden surrounds the Georgian Old Rectory. It contains many species of trees, ranging in age from centuries-old to very young saplings. In early June, the rose garden is about to flower, and so the garden's principal attractions are the rhododendrons, the wisteria, the hostas, and a sea of cow parsley in the woods around the gravel path. Recent additions are a greenhouse and a box parterre.

On Sunday 4th June from 11:00-4.30.

Dairy Cottage, 15 Sharnford Road, Sapcote, Leicestershire, LE9 4JN. From a walled garden with colourful mixed borders to a potager approached along a woodland path, this mature cottage garden combines extensive perennial planting with many unusual shrubs and specimen trees. With colourful herbaceous borders and unusual small trees and shrubs this quintessential cottage garden is divided into several rooms.

Enjoy visiting one of our gardens knowing that at the same time, you are also donating to nursing and cancer charities.

In 2022, thanks to the generosity of garden owners, our volunteers and garden visitors The National Garden Scheme donated over £3.11 million to our best-loved charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute. For further details of our open gardens, accessibility, directions and admission details visit www.ngs.org.uk

See page 25 for answers

Strawberry Yoghurt Ice Cream

A simple, healthy dessert with just a handful of ingredients. You can make this vegan by using soy or coconut yoghurt. For a brighter red colour stir in a little berry superfood powder.

Preparation time 10 minutes

Freezing time 4-5 hours

Serves 4

Ingredients

400g fresh strawberries

2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

100g full-fat plain Greek yoghurt

1 tsp lemon juice

1 tsp berry superfood powder (optional)

Method

• Wash the strawberries and remove the stems. Cut in half.

• Place the strawberries out on a parchment-lined tray.

• Freeze for 4-5 hours or overnight.

Swiss Strawberry & Walnut Cake

This light walnut sponge filled with strawberries and cream is often served on the Continent as a pudding, but it also makes the perfect afternoon teatime treat.

Preparation time 30 minutes

Cooking time 40-45 minutes

Serves 8

Ingredients

3 large eggs

100g caster sugar

75g self-raising flour

50g walnuts, finely chopped

For the filling and topping

300ml pouring double cream, whipped

450g strawberries, roughly chopped, plus extra kept whole for decoration

Preheat the oven to 180°C / fan 160°C / gas mark 4. Grease a deep 20cm round cake tin, then line the base with non-stick baking paper.

Measure the eggs and sugar into a large bowl and beat until the mixture is thick and mousse-like, and leaves a trail when the whisk is lifted out of the mixture. Sift the flour onto the mixture and lightly fold in along with the chopped walnuts.

Turn into the prepared cake tin and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until well-risen and the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed with a finger. Leave to cool in the tin for a few minutes then turn out, peel off the baking paper and finish cooling on a wire rack.

When cold, cut the cake into three horizontally using a serrated or bread knife, then sandwich the slices together with a good amount of whipped cream and strawberries. Spread the

• Place the frozen strawberries, honey or maple syrup, yoghurt, lemon juice and berry powder (if using) into a food processor. Process until smooth and creamy. You many need to scrape down the sides and repeat the blending a few times.

• Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container and return to the freezer.

Nutrition per serving: 260kcal, fat 8.6g (of which saturates 7.3g), carbohydrates 40.6g (of which sugars 39.8g), protein 4.2g

remaining cream over the top and the sides of the cake, and decorate with the reserved strawberries heaped on top.

TIP For a lighter filling, you can use full-fat crème fraiche. Extracted from Mary Berry’s Baking Bible by Mary Berry (BBC Books, £28), a definitive baking collection, featuring 250 retested and updated foolproof classics plus 20 brand new recipes, along with Dame Mary’s tips.

Photography by Ant Duncan.

There’s no need to replace the window - we will replace the glass unit for you

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

Article by Michael Stokes

Unusual, unique diesel loco visits line for first time.

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

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

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

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

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

4 words Pictograms

5 words

3 words

See page 25 for answers

An Update From Kirby Muxloe

Parish Council

Article by Bettina Atkinson

Vote of thanks to two departing Councillors

Both Norma Beck and Ros Ford will be stepping down from their work on the Parish Council after May. Norma and Ros have made an enormous and highly-valued contribution to the work of the Parish Council over the years. Norma has been on the Parish Council for almost eight years and has contributed to every committee and also liaised with local groups such as the Lubbesthorpe Impact Group and the Local History Group, in her work to have part of Kirby Muxloe designated a Conservation Area. Ros has made an invaluable contribution to the Planning Committee and has always taken an active role in the organisation of the Christmas Lights Switch-On event, ensuring the safety of the general public. Both Councillors will be sorely missed and we would like to extend a heartfelt vote of thanks to them, for the work they have carried out for the community over the years.

The Tennis Courts

As of the 1st of April 2023, residents wishing to play tennis on the Kirby Muxloe Parish Council tennis courts must first book the courts using the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) online booking system. Before you are able to book a court, you must apply for an annual Tennis Pass. This is provided completely free of charge to all residents of Kirby Muxloe. To access the application visit: www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/KirbyMuxloeTennisCourts/Membership

Once you have obtained a Tennis Pass, you will be able to book courts for free and up to a week in advance, using the court booking page. Non-residents of Kirby Muxloe have the option of playing on the courts for a one-off fee of £25 for an annual Tennis Pass, or by booking the courts on a pay and play basis.

It is hoped that the introduction of a booking system will help to manage the use of the courts and everybody will be guaranteed their time on court. If you do not have access to the internet at home, then you have the option of visiting Kirby Muxloe Library where free internet access is available, in order to sign in and book your court.

Kirby Meadows

The process of transferring ownership of the Kirby Meadows amenity land from Taylor Wimpey to Kirby Muxloe Parish Council is continuing in a timely manner. As with all of these transactions, there are a great deal of legal contracts etc, which are being dealt with by Blaby District Council's legal department. Kirby Muxloe Parish Council should be in a position to take on ownership and stewardship of the land within the next 12 - 18 months. The contractors replaced a number of dead saplings in early spring of 2022. Unfortunately, the replanting was followed by a period of drought and intense heat (summer of 2022) - not ideal conditions for young trees which have yet to become established. Sadly, some trees will have to be replaced yet again. However, many have survived, thanks to the stalwart efforts of Councillors John and Atkinson who watered the young trees during the hot dry weather.

The Parish Precept

Kirby Muxloe Parish Council precept for the financial year of 2023 - 2024 is set to increase by 7.98%. It was deemed necessary by the Council to increase the precept in order to cover costs which have risen in line with inflation. In fact, when compared to many villages in Blaby District, 7.98% is quite a modest increase; many other villages such as Glenfield, Huncote and Blaby have increased their precepts by 15% (the maximum).

The Christmas Lights Switch-On

Although it was a few months ago now, it is still worth mentioning the Parish Council Christmas Event. It was another super occasion: very well-attended and appreciated by all. The performances in

the Village Hall of the dance troupe and the Kirby Muxloe Primary School Choir were lovely and something which the children should be really proud of. Kirby Muxloe Library and Community Hub joined in the festivities with singing, delicious home-made cakes and Santa's Grotto (always a favourite). Best of all was the visit from the reindeer, beloved by children and adults alike.

The Coronation of King Charles III

To celebrate and mark the Coronation of King Charles III, the Parish Council had commemorative coins minted, which display the Parish Council's logo on one side and a tribute to the Coronation on the reverse. Every child who attends Kirby Muxloe Primary School received one of these commemorative coins, as a gift from Kirby Muxloe Parish Council in order to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III and Camilla which took place on Saturday 6th of May 2023.

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

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

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from first thought to final tile

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

Sir Edward Wood

Article by Val Knott

This month we feature an article written by Val Knott who is my co-chair of KMLHG and also the Village Archaeology Warden. Val is a fountain of knowledge, always shining a light on something or somebody we may have missed. Her article appeared in one of our newsletters, which were produced during the pandemic when we tried to keep our members entertained and in touch with our History Group.

The name of Edward Wood is wellknown in the history of the city of Leicester and in Leicestershire for his civic role, as an entrepreneur and benefactor but perhaps not so wellknown for his links to Kirby Muxloe. He became Mayor of Leicester four times and was the founder of the shoe retailers Freeman, Hardy and Willis and spent several years living in the village in a house he had built in Kirby Fields in 1891, known as “Charnwood House”.

1876, Edward incorporated the business into Freeman, Hardy and Willis. He, as chairman of the company, appointed as company directors Arthur Hardy, an architect, William Freeman, his factory manager and a Mr Willis, his salesman. Their first retail outlet was opened in Wandsworth, London in 1877 and by 1900, Freeman, Hardy and Willis had become the largest footwear retailer in the world with, by 1903, about 300 shops.

Edward was a devout Baptist and used his Christian beliefs in doing good for the community, becoming a county magistrate and JP and vice chairman of the Derwent Valley Water Board, which ensured a continuous supply of good quality of water to the citizens of Leicester. He was a benefactor of the Leicester Royal Infirmary and under his influence a nurses’ home and children’s hospital were built. As a successful entrepreneur, he created wealth that everyone could benefit from and he provided good wages for all. He set up a number of trusts and charities which after his death in 1917 still exist today. £5000 was invested in the Edward Wood Bequest Fund for distressed gentlewomen in 1917, the year of his deathapproximately £350,000 today.

He became Mayor of Leicester for the first time in 1888 and went on to serve three more times in 1895, 1901 and 1906. In 1906, he was knighted in recognition of his philanthropy and civic work. Many will know the impressive building on London Road, Edward Wood Hall, named after him, now renamed as Leicester University’s Fraser Noble Hall. His portrait by Walter William Outless hangs in Leicester’s Town Hall.

for many years but when he died in 1917, he was living in Shirley Lodge, Houghton, accompanied by his daughter, Annie, a widow and two grandchildrenhis grandson Robert sadly having been killed in WWI.

He was well-known and respected as a local entrepreneur and philanthropist and was described as having a kind and generous nature and a warm heart.

Thanks to “Building our past-the legacy of Freeman, Hardy and Willis” and to Erica Statham’s article on Sir Edward Wood in “Baptists Together”.

The Kirby Muxloe Local History Group

Article by Judith Upton

His life began when he was born in Derby in 1839 to William and Emma Wood. His father at this time, was a printer and then in 1851 a cabinet maker. Sometime later, the family moved to St. Margaret’s in Leicester, along with Edward’s three sisters, where Edward’s father worked as an engine smith. Edward initially worked as an errand boy and was later apprenticed to a draper and outfitter, where he learned skills as a hatter and a hosier. He married Annie Sewell, with whom he went on to have three daughters, Annie, Catherine and Elizabeth.

By 1870, he had begun a business manufacturing boots and shoes, joining Annie’s relatives at premises in Marble St. Leicester. By the following year, he was employing seven men and one boy and in

During the years building his business interests, Edward and his family lived in different parts of Leicester but when Kirby Fields was developing as a desirable part of the county in which to live, he built “Charnwood House” on Stamford Road. He also owned land in Kirby Muxloe, particularly in the Gullet Lane area. It is recorded in our house deeds that the land on which our house was built was owned by Sir Edward Wood and that in 1907, Sir Edward paid £1953-17-6 to A. Moore and C. Seabrook for “all that piece or parcel of land in Kirby Muxloe bounded on the N.E. by a lane called Gullet Lane and on the S.E. by the Leicester & Burton line of the Midland Railway and was formerly part of a close called ‘Kimberlin’s Close’. Also, all that close or ground enclosed site in Kirby Muxloe formerly called by the name ‘Top Kirk’s Close’ field formerly in the tenure of David Stone”. In 1913, Sir Edward sold the land to Annie Knibb to build the house we now live in.

Sir Edward continued to live in Kirby

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 kirbymuxloelocalhistorygroup.org

Our next meeting will take place on Tuesday 16th May 2023. Our speaker Matthew Morris will talk about “Cardinals, Chariots and Queens”. This will be followed by a short AGM. Subscriptions will be due at this meeting and are £10 per person for full membership for the next year, together with £2 per person for each meeting.

Guests and visitors are always most welcome with a one-off payment of £5 per meeting.

Sir Edward Wood 1839-1917

Borough Council Election Results May 4th. We are both extremely humbled again. Thank you to the residents of Ratby, Bagworth and Thornton who have put their faith in us again for another 4 years. We will always make ourselves available to our residents. We pride ourselves on giving help and advice to residents when required, we will also take issues forward on your behalf if required. Remember we are only a phone call or email away.

The overall political makeup of the Council is as follows:

The Liberal Democrats have retained control of the Borough Council with 22 seats. Conservatives 10 seats and Labour 2 seats.

Ratby Bagworth & Thornton

Number of seats: two

Candidate: BOOTHBY Christopher William Party: The Conservative Party Candidate Votes: 950 ELECTED

Candidate: MARTIN Ashley Simone Party: Labour Party

Votes: 378

Candidate: MULLANEY David James Party: Liberal Democrat Focus Team Votes: 163

Candidate: O`SHEA Ozzy Party: The Conservative Party Candidate Votes: 1062 ELECTED

Candidate: ROBINSON Noel Party: Liberal Democrat Focus Team Votes: 126

Candidate: WREN Mark Party: The Green Party Votes: 369

Once again, we take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support and remember we are only a phone call away.

Chris & Ozzy. Working for you.

Ozzy O’shea

County Councillor

T: 0116 2394336 M: 07808585825

E: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

Temporary Traffic Regulation Order

Markfield Road / Markfield Road Service Road for 140 to 198 and Markfield Road Service Road for 39 to 127, Ratby.

Leicestershire County Council Highways has agreed to a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order at the above location.

The Temporary Traffic Regulation Order will be implemented for public safety for Lagan Homes and their appointed contractors to undertake associated development works, utility connections and infrastructure improvement works. This order may also accommodate third party works where applicable to try and minimise disruption.

The Final Phase is the full road closure which is currently in place. The road closure is required on Markfield Road, Ratby Between footpath R50 and the entrance to the car park next to Markfield Road Service Road For Numbers 140 To 198 and where Footpath R50 meets Markfield Road, Ratby on the 1st May 2023 for up to 4 weeks. This is for the final carriageway resurfacing and lining work. Access will be maintained for residents on the service roads.

The proposed alternative diversion route for the Markfield Road closure will be via: Ratby Lane, Launde Road, Markfield; A50 Leicester Road (Field Head), A50 Bradgate Hill, A50 Markfield Road, Groby Town, Leicester Road from A50, Sacheverell Way, Groby; Groby Road, Main Street, Markfield Road, Ratby and vice versa.

I appreciate this is a great inconvenience to residents. I have arranged for a Highways supervisor to monitor the progress of the work and liaise with Lagan Homes to see if the work can be completed any earlier, so that the road can be opened.

The Spring Budget.

There was some good news in the Chancellors Spring budget for Leicestershire with an additional £3,156,400 awarded for potholes and road maintenance. Although other authorities were awarded more. I very much welcome this. It will certainly go to help our pothole repairs. Roads are the number one issue that residents write to councillors about. It is a step in the right direction, as we are currently the lowest funded County Council.

Contacting the County Councils Customer Service Centre.

From Monday 3rd April a number of email addresses used by the CSC to receive queries/enquiries from members of the public mainly, customerservices@leics.gov.uk and highwayscustomerservices@leics.gov.uk, will cease. From Monday members of the public will be asked to use the online form on the County Council’s website hhttps://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/ contact-information to report any issues. Below is a user guide which may assist residents.

How to access Customer Service Contact Forms – A guide for members of the public

All contact forms can be accessed by visiting www.leicestershire. gov.uk/contact-information and selecting the relevant area of enquiry.

For enquiries relating to highways, transport or waste, visit https:// tinyurl.com/yc2538w8

When the link has been opened, it will take you to the following screen; To access the form, you will need to log in to your Self Account.

If you already have a Self-Account – Click the ‘Already have an account? LOG IN HERE’ link.

Enter your username (E-mail address) and Password and click ‘Sign

in’, or click the ‘Forgotten your password?’ link if you have forgotten your password

Please note that the ‘Office Login’ is for internal Leicestershire County Council employees only.

If you do not already have a Self-Account, please click the ‘Sign up now’ link and complete the Registration page. Please note you only need to register for a Self-Account once.

Once you have registered and signed in, you will be taken to the start of the Contact Form.

If for any reason it doesn’t take you to the front of the Contact Form, click the link from the beginning and it should open with yourself logged in.

Should you select ‘Yes’ to the first question, you will be invited to contact the Customer Service Centre by telephone

10. Kuala Lumpur

9. Raphael

8. Independent

7. Shakespears Sister

6. Acid

5. Uniform

4. Omicron

3. Tittle

2. True (its red in both)

1. Arkansas

Arms & Legs Answers

10. Belly button in reflection missing

9. Diamond on robe trim missing

8. Kenny Loggins / Ryan

7. Marat Safin / Rhys Ifans

6. Ursula Andress / Colonel Sanders

5. Marc Almond / Gary Oldman

4. Eva Braun / Keith Urban

3. Tony Orlando / Cristiano Ronaldo

2. David Villa / Frankie Valli

1. Pierce Brosnan / Richard Branson

Answers

Surname Anagram Pairs

20 Banns, 23 Emir.

Should you select ‘No’ to the first question, you will be asked what you are looking to do

8. Slippers different colour

7. Wooden knob on mirror missing

6. Sceptre missing

5. Face in reflection different

4. Hair different colour

3. Cat different colour

2. Inner ear on child missing

1. Part of crown missing

Spot The Difference Answers

10. Jean Harlow / Andy Warhol

Rustic, 18 Suture, 19 Elk,

Importer, 14 Cavemen, 16

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

Down: 1 Dame, 2 Cassia, 3

Legion, 25 Earwig, 26 Sun.

Dressage, 22 Trek, 24

Spire, 17 Capsule, 21

11 Citadel, 13 James, 15

Azalea, 9 Lens, 10 Epilepsy,

Across: 3 Rib, 7 Parade, 8

Answers

General Knowledge

3. Bits and bobs

Once selected you will then be asked to choose a service your enquiry relates to and provide further details.

Text Message Scams. How to Spot a Text Message Scam. Messaging scams can be very convincing, so it’s important to know what to watch out for to stay ahead of the fraudsters.

Scammers are increasingly taking advantage of smartphones and are getting very clever with how they try to take your hardearned money. Research found that text scams have boomed as consumers have become increasingly reliant on deliveries during the pandemic. Scammers use many different types of messaging systems and apps, like SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Viber, Skype, Google Hangouts, Snapchat and other messaging platforms to try scam you out of your money. By using identity masking technology to change the name displayed as the sender, scammers often make it look like a legitimate organisation is contacting you via text or a messaging app. This is known as ‘number spoofing’. If you get sent a scam message, it’s important you don't respond to it and report it so others don’t fall victim. Reporting a scam message is free and it will help stop the spread of these messages

FluBot' malware scam delivery message

Watch out for scam delivery messages containing dangerous 'FluBot' malware.

Known to affect Android devices, these messages have been found to contain a dodgy link to download an app that can infect your phone with malware. The malware can harvest passwords and other personal information, it also accesses contacts to send out further messages.

Always be wary of unsolicited texts, and think twice before you click on a link. If you think you've received a genuine delivery message, but you’re not certain, then contact the delivery company’s official customer service helpline to verify the message.

9. Tracey Ullman / Peter Mullan

Gosling

2. A bad spell of weather

1. Close, but no cigar

Pictogram Answers

Answers

If you've received a similar message and you think it’s a scam you can simply delete it. If you'd like to report it then you can do so by forwarding the message to 7726 - a free reporting service provided by phone operators.

If you've received this message and you've already downloaded the infected app then follow these steps:

• Don't enter any passwords or log into any accounts.

• Perform a factory reset on your device.

• After resetting your device you may be prompted to restore from a backup, but do not restore any apps that you've accessed or downloaded since your device was compromised.

• Once you've restored your device you should change your passwords on your accounts to ensure they are secure

Finally, I would like 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 Locally.

Leicester Forest East Community Library

Article by Paul Turner

New books in the library

We will be getting new books in the library. Already arrived are 15 Punjabi language books loaned from another library. We will also be getting a selection of crime thrillers as well as Key Stage 2 non-fiction books this month which include such titles as:Great science projects: tried and tested experiments for all budding scientists

Science lab: fantastic activities for young scientists

How to be a maths whizz

Women scientists in maths and coding

Physics: science is all around you!

The Atlantic Ocean

The Arctic Ocean

Dinosaur atlas

Please come in and have a look for the new titles. We will be getting further new books later in the year.

Jigsaws

Next to the coffee area we have a jigsaw on the go. We have just completed the one in the picture but have started another 500 piece one. Come along and place a few pieces into it while having a drink.

Regular Groups

Just a reminder of the regular groups that are meeting in the library.

Monday 7pm to 9pm – LFE Stitchers

Tuesday Teapot Club 2pm to 4pm – 2nd & 4th

Tuesday of the Month

Wednesday 10am to Noon – Coffee & Chat – all ages welcome

Wednesday 6pm to 8pm – Craft Group

Thursday 10am to Noon – Baby & Toddler Meet Up Group (up to 2 years)

Thursday 3rd Thursday of the Month 7pm to 9pm – The LE3 Ladies Group

Friday 2.30pm to 3pm & 3.15pm to 4pm – Busy Bees

If you are interested in any group then please view the website or Facebook for details.

Future events for your diary Beetle Drive

We are asking if any one is interested in a beetle drive? I can remember them in the past as being a fast-paced dice throwing night with plenty of shouting and fun. If you are interested, can you please let us know by using the QR contact form below.

Quiz Night - June 16th or 23rd July

Provisional date of 16th or 23rd June – £6.50 with light supper and drinks will be available to be purchased

Family Bingo Night August - 18th August @ 7pm

Autumn Fair - 16th September from 11am to 2pm - £15.00 per stall

4th November - Diwali Celebration

18th November - Christmas Fair

Opening Hours

Mon 2pm - 5pm

Tue Closed

Wed 10am – 4:00pm 6pm - 8pm

Thurs 10am - noon 2pm - 4pm

Fri 2pm - 5pm

Sat* 10am - 1pm

* 1st Saturday of the month coffee morning 10am - 1pm Visit

Baldwin Trust Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Article by Richard Clarke

The Baldwin Trust’s 40th anniversary season began on 1st April with smiles and balloons to mark the occasion. The Baldwin Trust have been operating their fully accessible narrowboat cruises along the Leicestershire waterways since 1983, when the Trust was started by Bert Halsey and his wife as a way of providing respite to the patients of the Baldwin Ward at Leicester Frith Hospital.

The Trust currently operate 2 narrowboats: Dandelion, from Barrow Boating, and Halseyon Days from Leicester Marina. Both boats are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate up to 12 people. Many local community groups have benefited from trips along the canals and rivers, with one user recently commenting “it was so tranquil travelling at a slow pace, enjoying each other’s company and the river wildlife”.

All cruises are crewed by fully trained volunteers; stops along the route can be arranged, and you are welcome to bring your own picnic and refreshments to enjoy.

If you would like to share this experience with family and friends, you can see availability and book online at www.baldwintrust.co.uk or email: web@baldwintrust.co.uk

The Trust are always seeking new volunteers to train as crew and skippers, and to assist with the running of the charity; if you would like to learn a new skill, meet new people and spend time on the water, then we would love to hear from you.

More Time To Make Memories On Great Central Railway

Article by Michael Stokes

Train times altered to allow families to visit the footplate of steam engines.

The Great Central Railway is trying out a new timetable for its award winning heritage trains. The aim is to encourage visitors to visit the locomotive footplate and meet the driver and fireman.

Trains run between Loughborough and Leicester North and when they reach their destination, the heritage steam or diesel locomotive moves to the other end of the train for the return journey, a process known in railway slang as ‘running round’.

General Manager of the Great Central Railway Malcolm Holmes said, “We know so many of our visitors now have no direct memory of steam locos when they ran on Britain’s railways, but are still fascinated by them. By changing our timetable and allowing trains to wait for longer at Leicester North we want to encourage families to stand on the footplate of a steam engine, feel the heat of the fire and meet our engine crews. It’s part of our drive to make every visit rewarding and full of memories.”

An extra ten minutes was added at Leicester North station so visitors alighting to stretch their legs get the chance to experience the line’s heritage steam and diesel locomotives in person.

The timetable change was trialled during services over the Coronation Bank Holiday weekend. It will be used again on the last Bank Holiday in May (the 29th) and again for a special gala event celebrating fifty years of trains on the heritage line over the weekend of 17th and 18th of June.

Malcolm concluded, “We hope to inspire new generations to come and volunteer with us and learn to drive locomotives themselves. Once upon a time it was said everyone wanted to grow up and be an engine driver and we want to awaken that passion!”

General Knowledge

Get Your Lawn Ready For Summer

Article by Ian Walker

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

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

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

Across

3. Chest bone (3)

7. Ceremonial procession (6)

8. Plant similar to the rhododendron (6)

9. Transparent optical device (4)

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

11. Fortress (7)

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

15. Steeple (5)

17. Gelatinous container with medicine inside (7)

21. Equestrian display (8)

22. Long arduous journey (4)

24. Large military unit (6)

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

26. Earth’s nearest star (3)

Down

1. Female pantomime character (4)

2. Cinnamon-yielding tree (6)

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

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

5. Equipment for taking pictures (6)

6. Outer casing of a marine organism (8)

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

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

14. Troglodytes (7)

16. Countrified (6)

18. Surgical stitch (6)

19. Northern deer with very large antlers (3)

20. Public announcement of a proposed marriage (5)

23. Independent ruler or chieftain (4)

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

Let’s create the lawn we both love.

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

The Village Writers

Article by David Schonveld

The VILLAGE WRITERS group is looking for one or two new writers. At the moment we meet via Zoom twice a month.1st & 3rd Wednesdays@7pm. (Members are sent a link)

You don't have to have any standard of writing. Anyone who writes, enjoys writing, or who wants to get better at it is eligible. We read the writing we've done as homework & get helpful, creative 'feedback' from our friendly others.

The Writers'WORKSHOP group is also looking for one or two members. It's an in-person group, and focusses directly on the many techniques of writing.(eg.description, dialogue, short story,memoir etc) All writing is done at the meeting. Find out more about either group: text or email David: 07552107461 or aschons98@gmail com