December 2019 - Shepshed & Hathern Community Eye

SHEPSHED

HATHERN

COMMUNITY EYE 7,200 COPIES DELIVERED EVERY MONTH - DECEMBER 2019

Charity Christmas Quiz The Horse Shepshed Sunday 22nd December

Hathern Nursery Raises £2,939.20

To Support Loughborough Charity

Santa & His Sleigh Route

Shepshed Lions Club

Running Club Raises Over £1,000

For Local Good Causes

Staff Say Thanks To Children In Need Steps Centre

Meet Your Neighbour

Thursday 19th December Christchurch Methodist

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Next Issue Out

Deadline Date: 25th November Delivery Date: 6th December

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Rolls-Royce Retired Employees Association

Article by Graham Burton The 12th December members will have Christmas dinner & illuminated walk at the National Arboretum. On behave of the committee we would like to wish all members a Merry Christmas.

Shepshed Special Community Bus Silver Circle Article by Alison Sharp

This is a social group open to all, we play prize bingo and have a natter over a cup of tea and biscuits.

We meet every Monday afternoon 2pm until 3.30pm at the community centre (opp tesco express) on charnwood road, shepshed.

We are looking for new members and also volunteers to help.

If you have a couple of hours free and would like to help or join in the fun call Alison on 01509 650431 We can arrange for the community bus to pick you up too!!

Shepshed Special Community Bus Shopping Services Article by Alison Sharp

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All our shopping services are door to door services and are available to Shepshed, Hathern, Long Whatton and Belton Tuesdays: co-op shepshed and the 1st Tuesday of the month to Morrisons at coalville

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Wednesdays: fortnightly to Morrisons at coalville Thursdays: Loughborough market Friday: co-op Shepshed and a possibility of Morrisons Coalville depending on interest.

We also do outings to various places and advertise these in the Shepshed Community Eye, Shepshed Echo and social media.

If you require any information please contact Alison on 01509 650531

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Bull Ring Bus Shelter Vandalism

Article by Brenda Snape Unfortunately, due to the increase in vandalism to the Bus Shelter in the Bull Ring, the Town Council has made the decision not to replace anymore panels, for the time being.

Thanking you, in advance, of your understanding, for the time being.

For further information please contact Shepshed Town Council on 01509 508872 or email contact@ shepshedtowncouncil.org

Shepshed History Society Article by Marjorie Schulz

On November 12th the Shepshed History Society was given a very interesting insight into the origin of the Leics & Swannington railway when Mr Bill Pemberton came with many slides to explain the reason behind it being built.

It was opened in July 1832 after William Stenson, a well known surveyor in conjunction with George Stephenson and his son Robert decided it would be more profitable to transport coal to Leicester by means of a railway instead of waterways. And so began one of the first railways to be constructed to carry coal from Swannington to Leicester. Later it was modernised in order to carry people as well. The actual stations were very few and far apart, stopping instead to allow passengers to alight on the side of the track.

They would have purchased from the local inns a metal token as their ticket which would be collected by the ticket collector on the train and returned to the inns to be used again. Bill then went into lengthy details pertaining to the well known Swannington Incline and all what it involved, the engine of which is still on display in the York museum. It was a very entertaining evening that was enjoyed by all the members.

The December meeting is the Christmas social evening when Mel Wilson will be giving a talk entitled Father Christmas and his Colleagues, then afterwards there will be a luxury buffet supper with punch and non alcoholic drinks provided.

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PHOTO LEFT: The Lions and Headteacher Mrs Ella Roberts and Governor Ms. Sarah Baxter and carpenter Simon Price.

Shepshed Lions Sculpture Article by Ann Bodycote

Shepshed Lions helped local glass artist Lynn Jackson, also a Shepshed Lion, to install a ‘sculpture’ designed and made by her in collaboration with all of the children attending Thringstone Primary School during 2018/19.

It’s representative of a Tree of Life. Every child in the school made a leaf with their names on which is incorporated in the bottom panel to line up with the roots of the tree at the top.

Carpenter, Simon Price from The Ferrers at Staunton Harold made the exquisite frame and helped the Lion President and Lions Dave Jackson and Mick Wyatt to dig the holes and “plant” it.

THE SOCIAL ORGANISATION FOR SINGLE PEOPLE Founded in 1995 and covering Leicestershire, South Derbyshire and South Notts, Amicus are a small social group for single, divorced, legally separated or bereaved people.

We are NOT a ‘dating agency’ or a social ‘pick-up’ singles night. We meet weekly with a programme of events to suit a single persons budget.

• Meeting weekly, we have a two month programme of events.

• Drinks evening on alternate Fridays at a local hotel.

• Alternate Saturdays, events are organised at various venues.

• Some Sunday events.

Give us a call and see how you can get involved?

 You can look for us on Facebook as: Amicus Social Organisation Telephone:

(01530) 457883

Find us online at: amicussocial.org or email: amicussocial@googlemail.com

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Spotlight on Iveshead

December 2019

ROMEO & JULIE 1500 sq ft over 2 floors of Antique, vintage and collectibles inc quality gold and silver jewellery,coins, militaria, stamps, hand painted furniture, giftware, interiors and much more’ ALSO WANTED • All gold & silver jewellery including scrap & broken items • We pay more - the highest prices in the area • Costume Jewellery • All coins Environmentally friendly chalk and mineral paint. No VOC • Militaria & medals Solvent Free, No Odour.

• Stamps We can also paint your own tired furniture. Please ask for more details.

• Postcards • Watches • Silver & Silver Plate • All interesting antiques, collectables & furniture.

FREE VALUATIONS EVERYDAY • OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE 50 High Street, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3EE Find us on facebook - Open everyday inc bank holidays 10.00am - 4.00pm

Come and see our Christmas Show Everyone welcome!

Iveshead School production, written

by Head of English, Mr Bailey, is loosely based on the well known Shakespeare play. It features around 35 students, with a similar number involved in assisting with technical or backstage aspects.

Gr Grab your tickets soon and come and support our fabulous youngsters and staff.

DECEMBER 12th & 13th 7.30pm Tickets: £2.50 - 01509 602156 The Year 7 and 8 Enrichment group have been learning about sustainability and up cycling. They made poppies from recycled plastic bottles for a beautiful remembrance display by H block pond. A big thank you to all the students who came in at lun lunchtime to make a poppy!

Applications are now open for our Post 16 (2020 intake) – please complete the application form on our website.

CALL 07792 974309

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Public car park to rear of shop Free parking from 3pm everyday and all day Sunday

Find that unusual Christmas gift at Kats Antiques this year, 100’s to choose from!!

Headteacher - Matthew Parrott 01509 602156 @ivesheadschool

The school that encapsulates perfect teaching and support.

Tom Smith, year 13

”

Iveshead School, Forest Street, Shepshed, Loughborough, LE12 9DB info@ivesheadschool.org

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Santa’s Routes & Stopping Places Santa has tried to cover as much of Shepshed as he can in the time he has, as it his busy time. He apologises in advance and appeals for your understanding if you feel you have been left out. He will be at the Council Offices though for 3 nights with mulled wine and mince pies for you to come and see him.

All stopping places are dependent upon traffic. Shepshed Lions reserve the right to cancel in the event of adverse weather conditions.

Notice will be given on Facebook.

Monday 9th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Corner of Northwood Drive and Highfields Close (traffic permitting) 2. Northwood Drive, between Tyler Close and Nursery Close.

3. Corner of Field Avenue and Piper Close towards Oakley Road.

4. Corner of Ringwood Road and Woodlands Drive.

5. Crossroads Of Lansdowne Road and Radnor Drive.

6. Junction of Boundary Way and Mill Close.

7. Junction of Swift Avenue and Woodpecker way (Persimmon) Tuesday 10th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Corner of Sandringham Rise and Norwich Close.

2. Corner of Banbury Drive and Newark Close.

3. Corner of Conway Drive and Tetbury Drive.

4. Corner of Conway Drive and Tamworth Close.

5. Halfway along Penrith Avenue.

6. Corner of Beaumaris Crescent and Conway Drive.

7. Corner of Rockingham Close and Belvoir Way. 8. Windsor Drive, just off Belvoir Way. 9. End of Balmoral Avenue with Windsor Drive.

Wednesday 11th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Corner of Countrymans Way with Shepherds Close.

2. Blacksmiths Avenue 3. Ploughman’s Drive T junction.

4. Countryman’s Way, approx. 100 yds from top bend.

5. End of Countryman’s Way just before Brook Street.

6. Patterson Place, top left from entrance.

7. Patterson Place, bottom corner.

8. Chapel Street corner of Harriman Close.

9. Oakley Avenue, corner with New Walk.

10. Oakley Road between Oakley Avenue and Lansdowne Road.

Thursday 12th December 2019 5pm - 8pm. Outside the Council Offices, opposite Tesco.

Here, Santa’s Lions helpers will be serving mince pies, mulled wine and fruit juice for the children.

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Friday 13th December 2019 5pm - 8pm. Outside the Council Offices, opposite Tesco.

Here, Santa’s Lions helpers will be serving mince pies mulled wine and fruit juice for the children.

Saturday 14th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Quick stop at the corner of Deacon Close with Sullington Road.

2. Bull and Bush car park entrance.

3. St James Estate, corner of St James Close and St James Road.

4. Corner of St James Road and St Winefride Road.

5. Half way along St Botolph Road.

6. Quick stop on Forman Road with junction of Cotton Croft.

7. Half way point on Spring Close.

8. Forman Road end of Spring Close.

Monday 16th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Fairway Road between Temple Close and Brendon Close.

2. Fairway Top of Penine Close.

3. Fairway Quantock Rise.

4. Fairway Wicklow Close.

5. Fairway Purbeck Avenue.

6. Midway down Pentland Avenue.

8. Corner of Trueway Drive and Cheviot drive 9. Between Malvern Avenue and Arbury Dale.

10. Junction of Snowdon Close with Trueway Drive 11. Corner of Nook Close with Trueway Drive.

Tuesday 17th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Near the end of Paradise Close.

2. Opposite play area in Paradise Close.

3. Buttercup Lane, just after Primrose Close.

4. Davis flags at middle of Buttercup Lane.

5. Chatsworth Road cul-de-sac (quick stop) 6. Bottom of McCarthy loop.

7. Next to Oxley school.

8. ‘T’ junction in Blackbrook Close.

9. Opposite Grange road cul-de-sac.

10.Bottom of Oxley Close loop.

11.Bottom of St Bernards Close.

Wednesday 18th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Kidger Close at the top of the Lant.

2. Top of the Lant with Beech Close.

3. Harrington Road, opposite Chestnut Close.

4. Corner of Well Yard Close with Harrington Road.

5. Corner of Smithy Way with Westoby Close.

6. Corner of Nelson Close with Westoby Close.

7. Junction of Cumbrian Way and Peartree Avenue.

8. Cumbrian Way, half way between The Inleys and Wood Close.

9. Junction of Cumbrian Way and Chiltern Avenue.

10.Opposite Cumbrian Way on Fairway (if possible).

11.Centre of Romway Close.

Thursday 19th December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. Junction of Belfry Place with Friar Close.

2. Corner of Belfry Place with Monastery Gardens.

4. Jolly Farmers car park.

5. Bottom of Abbey Close.

6. Abbey Close Junction with Du Cane Close.

7. Iveshead Road Junction with Wellingtonia Close.

Friday 20th December 2019 5pm - 8pm. Outside the Council Offices, opposite Tesco.

Here, Santa’s Lions helpers will be serving mince pies, mulled wine and fruit juice for the children.

Saturday 21st December 2019 5pm.

Following our usual route as far as possible, we shall be stopping at: 1. The Meadows opposite Grange Road.

2. The top of The Meadows Loop.

3. Halfway from the Meadows Loop to Glenfields.

4. On the “U” of the Glenfields loop.

5. Glenmore Avenue opposite Park Rise.

6. Opposite Park Court on Park Rise.

7. Top of Pick Street on Factory Street.

8. Half way along Stableford Close.

9. Junction of Neville Close with Glenmore Avenue.

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The Probus Club Article by Horace Lister

Santa Surveyors’ Tenth Race Will Help Leicestershire Homelessness Charity Article by Rajesh Gohil

A team of Leicestershire surveyors is preparing to get in the festive spirit and join in the Loughborough Santa Fun Run for the tenth year in a row.

Each year the group, who are all committee members of the Leicestershire Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), dust off their Santa outfits to complete the 5km course for a different local charity. This December they will be raising funds for homelessness charity Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland.

Speaking about the event, team member Rajesh Gohil said: “The Loughborough Santa Fun Run is always a treat – being surrounded by over 1,500 people in red Santa suits is a sight to behold! This year will be extra special as we’re all bringing our children to join in the race too – dressed in mini Santa outfits of course! Our RICS team have decided to donate this year’s sponsorship money to a cause very close to our hearts. As surveyors, we are especially aware of the importance of housing and how much it means to have a safe place to live. Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland does great work in our local area, offering accommodation and support to those who’ve experienced homelessness, as well as the chance to improve self-confidence through work and training opportunities.”

Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland provides a home, support and meaningful work to 16 formerly homeless individuals. Some stay for a while as they gain confidence and skills before they feel ready to move on to independent living; others are in need of longer-term support and are able to stay for as long as they need to.

Mir Juma, Chief Executive of Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland said: “As the weather gets colder, many people are having to live without a home. Our charity is very grateful when local people step up to help raise money for our work, so we can continue to help fight homelessness. We wish the RICS team the very best of luck with their fun run – their support means such a lot.”

To sponsor the RICS team in the Loughborough Santa Fun Run on December 1 visit www.justgiving.com/ team/RICSLeicester To find out more about supporting Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland visit www.emmaus.org.uk/ leicestershire-rutland

Hathern Community Library

Hathern Parish Council

Email: enquiries@hatherncommunitylibrary.org www.hatherncommunitylibrary.org Facebook and Twitter @Hathernlibrary

Next Meeting Monday 6th January 2020 Village Hall in Dovecote Street at 7.30pm

Opening Times Tuesday 2pm - 6pm Wednesday 10am - 12.30pm Thursday 2pm - 6pm Friday 10am - 12.30pm Saturday 10am - 12pm Craft and Chat Every Wednesday, 2pm - 4pm Join us for inspiration, motivation and inspiration. £2 per session, refreshments available.

All Join In Every other Thursday, 10:30am -11am Rhymes, songs and stories for 0-4 year olds.

Why Not Join Our Team Of Volunteers?

You can get involved in many different ways, having fun and contributing to your local community. volunteering@hatherncommunitylibrary.org

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Clerk: Maureen Spencer Tel: 01509 842813 Email: clerk@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk www.hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Like us on Facebook: @hathernparish Councillor: Roy Dann rdann@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Councillor: Peter Swift pswift@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Councillor: John Boyes jboyes@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Councillor: Ben Murdoch bmurdoch@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Councillor: Martin Clayton mclayton@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk

The meeting was opened by the President, who welcomed the members [ 17 in number ], along with the Speaker for the day David Jones.

Apologies for absence were received from Wilf Shelton,Albert Grimes,Ben Burton and Bert Bower.

Our new secretary Grahame had one or two extra announcements to make now that he is settling into the Secretary's chair, which were as follows.

A bouquet of flowers was taken to Mrs Shelton in appreciation of all the wonderful gestures of allowing committee meetings to be held in the family home over the period of Wilf 's secretaryship.

The Annual luncheon to be held at The Longcliffe Golf Club was all arranged and finalised, thanks to the intervention of Steve our Treasurer.

Our treasurer Steve will collect the Poppy wreath ready for the laying at the Armistice day ceremony.

The menu for the annual Christmas lunch was distributed, and members choice of lunch for the occasion should be forwarded to the Treasurer.

Although missing from the Agenda, Stan White's usual funny story interlude was given its well deserved space, and as members will remember for ever, the final story about how to make the best Yorkshire Pudding [ recipe by the fairy ] delivered by Stan in his best Yorkshire accent, before announcing that he would no longer be able to deliver further comical story lines.

Many thanks and much applause was given for his past services.

Grace was said by the President, and we were all treated to a hearty meal.

The raffle was drawn,and as usual the £10 and the £5 1st and 2nd prize were well received.

The Speaker David Jones was then introduced as today's donor of interest, giving a talk on The story of Pantomime and The English Music Hall.

Oh no he didn't, Oh yes he did.

He recalled the history of how pantomime started hundreds of years ago, starting with the use of court jesters, and progressing through to The Palace of Varieties,[ as shown on TV in the 60s], where audiences dressed for the occasion, through to Pantomimes that had men dressed as the Dame, and as time passed, it reverted to famous actors or comedians of the male denomination taking the lead role.

It was well documented and delivered in a humorous way, and well appreciated by the members, who showed their satisfaction in the usual way.

The meeting closed late due to the interest shown.

I am very sad to inform you that our Secretary Wilf Shelton passed away recently, and his funeral is arranged to take place at St James Church, Oaks in Charnwood, at 1-30 pm on the 9th of December 2019.

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Shepshed & Hathern Community Clubs & Groups 4th Shepshed Scout Group Georgie Budding 01509 389983

Hathern History Society Terry Cox 01509 843107 www.hathernhistory.co.uk

Rotary Club Of Shepshed Charnwood rotarysc@hotmail.co.uk

Shepshed Ramblers Margaret 01509 600510 Bernie 01509 828328

ACT One Adrian Dobson 07904 303488 adrian@act-one.co.uk www.act-one.co.uk

Hathern Horticultural Society Jacqueline Sutton 01509 842713

Serenade Shepshed Women’s Community Choir Keleigh Atkin 07775558219

Shepshed Rugby Club Tom Pitt 07522429786 shepshedrugby@gmail.com

hello@4thshepshedscoutgroup.co.uk

Art Group Dave 01509 842562 daveandfay.want@gmail.com

Hathern Old Cricket Club Neil Swift 07963 139942 Hathern Open Gardens John Worsfold 01509 842585

Belton Gardening Club Peter Crichton 01530 224869

Hathern Sunday Football Club Dave Pears 07904 950781

Belton & Hathern Scouts Kenny Henry 01509 507997 kennyjhenry@msn.com

Hathern Village Association www.hathernonline.co.uk

Bingo Jan 07944 609415 Charnwood Meditation Group Chris North 01509 506585 Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan Society Richard Perkins 01509 821962 christchurchgands.shepshed@ hotmail.com www.whatnever.co.uk Fox Badminton Julian Kuczala - 07941323944 julian.kuczala@sky.com Future Generation Sports Luke Dixon 07738090212 uturegsports@gmail.com Glenmore Art Group Pauline Lawley pauline_lawley@hotmail.com Hathern Band Lesley Bentley 01509 672029 www.hathernband.co.uk Hathern Bellringers Tony Croft 01509 842634 Hathern Bridge Club Yvonne Frost 01509 261445 Hathern Brownies Helen Pritchard 07425 168468 helen.gt@hotmail.com Hathern Dance Club Judith Wardell 01509 842357 Hathern Football Club Martin Snaith 07824 356629 snaithy@me.com Hathern Garden Club Phil Clark 01509 842345

Hathern Wildlife Club Sean Hale 01509 843089 Hathern Women’s Institute Gail Wooliscroft 01509 842874 Hathern Youth Club Ian Fuller 07837 066190

serenadeshepshed@rocketmail.com

Shepshed & District Camera Club Alan Harris 07733314605 chairman@shepshedcameraclub.co.uk

www.shepshedcameraclub.co.uk Shepshed & District Twinning Association www.shepshedtwinning.co.uk Shepshed Badminton Club Alan 01509 733391 a.zenthon@sky.com Shepshed Cricket Club Katie Oliver 07890941420 katie.oliver@live.com

Line Dancing Ann Seymour 07914358050

Shepshed Cycling Club georgesmith@ shepshedcyclingclub.co.uk www.shepshedcyclingclub.co.uk

Loughborough & District Amateur Radio Club Chris 01509 504319 www.radioclub.org.uk

Shepshed Dolphin Swimming Group Nicola Crowe 07739760725 admin@shepsheddolphins.org.uk

Loughborough & District Philatelic Society Rowland Tatton 01509 268073 rowlandftatton@googlemail.com https://sites.google.com/site/ loughboroughphilatelic/ Rosebery Medical Centre, Roseberry Street, Loughborough, LE11 5DX

Shepshed Dynamo Youth & Junior FC Mick Wattam 07801 691712

Over 50s Exercise Music Class 01509 650662 glenmorecentre@btconnect.com Over 50’s Badminton Club Roly Price 01530 600010 or 07403613711 r.price67@ntlworld.com Pasture Lane Players Liz Sutton 01509 828766 Pastures New Playgroup 07975 767723 pastplaygroup@live.com www.pasturesnewplaygroup.co.uk Rotary Club Of Shepshed Robert Hall 01509 842643 robert.hall72@btinternet.com

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Shepshed Dynamo FC Mick Wattam 07801691712 Shepshed History Society Marjorie Schulz marjorieschulz@talktalk.net Shepshed Lions Club Dave & Lynn Jackson lynnjac19@gmail.com www.shepshedlions.org Shepshed Model Railway Club Chris 01509 504319 Shepshed Mucky Duck Ukulele Club 07767678866 Shepshed Netball Amateur Players Lindsey Aldridge 07899887918 www.snapnetball.com Shepshed Punchin’ Pandas Children’s Martial Arts School Julie Hutton 07984 424811 www.emkmartialarts.co.uk

Shepshed Running Club info@shepshedrc.org.uk Shepshed Special Community Bus Alison Sharp 01509 650531 sscb9a@gmail.com Shepshed Stompers Line Dancers Linda 07907711282 Shepshed Swimming Club Ian head-coach@ shepshedswimmingclub.com www.shepshedswimmingclub.com Shepshed Taekwondo Pat Shawcroft 07986890559 www.shepshedtaekwondo.com Shepshed Town Bowls Club John Carrington 01509 505048 enquiries.stbc@outlook.com Shepshed Toy Library Catherine 01509 601146 Tea Dance David Spendlove 01509 821760 The Luncheon Club Victoria Jacques 01509 650662 glenmorecentre@btconnect.com The Oaks in Charnwood Garden Club Margaret Metcalfe 01530 838741 The Probus Club Of Shepshed Will Shelton 01509 769802 Walking For Health Shepshed 07709892731 wfhshepshed@gmail.com Wildfire Cheer Hannah Bottomley 07935135536 hannah@wildfirecheer.com www.wildfirecheer.com Yoga Group For All Abilities Jen Vaughan 07467946368 namasteyoga.uk@gmail.com

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Pub Quiz Boosts Local Charity Funds Article by Janet Russell

Staff Say Thanks To Children In Need Article by Janet Russell

A pack of bears greeted the children and families who visited the Steps Centre last week!

The staff all dressed as fluffy, yellow Pudsey bears, as a way of saying a massive ‘Thank You’ to Children in Need for the grant that was recently awarded to the Shepshed charity.

Steps is self-funding and provides a free service for children with movement-limiting conditions such as Down’s syndrome and cerebral palsy. Steps also supports the families of the children who attend.

Manager, Janet Russell, said, “We welcome families from across all of the East Midlands counties and provide what many of our parents have described as being ‘a lifeline’. We count ourselves as being very fortunate to have qualified for a grant of £90,000, paid over a three-year period, from Children in Need. This will go towards the £250,000 that has to be raised every year to pay for the running costs of the centre.”

On sale at the centre were Pudsey biscuits, baked by the staff. The proceeds will be donated to Children in Need.

Leader of the team of practitioners, Indila Simandi, said, “We are so grateful to Children in Need and wanted to make a donation as a way of thanking them for the generous grant. Earlier in the week Radio Leicester visited the centre to find out more about the service that we provide and to see what the Children in Need money will help to pay for. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to publicly thank the amazing organisation that helps to provide vital funding for organisations such as ours.”

To find out more about the centre go to www.stepscentre.org.uk

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A pub in Shepshed has been holding weekly quizzes to raise money for local charities.

Regulars at The Pied Bull in Shepshed pay £1 each week to take part in the popular quiz night and at the end of the year the money is divided between five local charities.

Steps, a centre in Shepshed that provides a free service for children with conditions that affect movement such as Down’s syndrome and cerebral palsy, was nominated by Claire Hutt to receive £450! Claire’s daughter, Lilly-Rose attends the centre along with her mum and grandmother.

Claire said, “I would like to thank everyone at the Pied Bull for the money that has been raised for Steps. Each year Steps needs £250,000 in order to provide their unique and specialist service. Steps is a charity that is dedicated to helping children with life-long conditions affecting their movement, to have the best start in life and to maximise their potential.”

Claire explained that her daughter has benefitted enormously from attending the sessions at Steps. A stroke at a young age left her with delayed development in achieving simple things such as walking and talking. This also affected her fine-motor skills such as writing and holding a knife and fork. Claire added, “Lilly-Rose has now achieved most of these things and took her first unaided steps a month before her third birthday. Our journey could have been so different but for the staff at Steps, who are fantastic. I can’t thank them enough for all of their love, support, knowledge, patience and passion to both Lilly-Rose and us as parents.

Donations such as that received from The Pied Bull means that Steps can carry on doing their amazing work, making children smile, helping them to grow and prosper in ways that we can’t imagine.”

Hathern Village Hall What's On Weekly Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Thursday Friday Friday Saturday Sunday

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As 2020 approaches, local theatre group, CTC, are working overtime on their preparations for their latest season of shows which will celebrate the group’s 50th anniversary.

Since their very first production (Cinderella Revisited in 1970) CTC have gone on to become one of the area’s leading amateur theatre companies. Having started with performances taking place at Christchurch Methodist Church in Shepshed, the society then moved to Hind Leys Community College, and then on to the Loughborough Town Hall where they still perform today. The society also staged a number of shows and concerts at the unique Barry Young’s Stardust Theatre in Bardon, including performances of La Cage Aux Folles and Hello Dolly, both alongside the late, great, Danny La Rue.

Over the past 50 years CTC have staged a wide range of musicals, from classic shows such as The Sound of Music, Brigadoon, My Fair Lady and Fiddler on the Roof, to more modern musicals such as We Will Rock You, Legally Blonde, Cats, Evita and Flashdance.

The company can also boast to being one of the very few amateur societies in the country to have staged the musical Blood Brothers.

To celebrate their 50th anniversary, CTC have planned a season of shows that will see a line-up of local talent take to the stage to wow Loughborough audiences.

Fresh from their success of Grease, Rent, and Priscilla Queen of the Desert, CTC are now well into rehearsals for the smash hit Jerry Herman musical Mack & Mabel which will be presented at Loughborough Town Hall from January 28th to February 1st.

A glamorous and dazzling musical comedy, Mack & Mabel is both a poignant love story and a riveting tribute to the grit and glamour of the era of silent movies.

Based on the real-life romance between legendary filmmaker Mack Sennett and his

beautiful, talented rising star Mabel Normand, Mack & Mabel captures the excitement of Hollywood’s golden age, the fun and action of the silent screen, the hysterical madcap chaos of Fatty Arbuckle and the Keystone Kops, and the glamour of the bathing beauties.

Mack & Mabel received eight Tony Award nominations when it originally opened on Broadway. Featuring music and lyrics by the great Jerry Herman (Hello, Dolly!, La Cage Aux Folles, Mame) and a book by Michael Stewart (42nd Street, Barnum), and is packed full of Broadway hits, including; I Won’t Send Roses, Tap Your Troubles Away, Time Heals Everything and Movies Were Movies.

Leading the company is CTC newcomer Gareth Wynne as the formidable Mack Sennett, alongside CTC regulars Holly Easter as the hugely talented Mabel Normand and Anja Zeman as the tap dancing movie star Lottie Armes. Supported by a hugely talented cast of CTC performers, and featuring a stunning 19-piece orchestra, breathtaking costumes and sets, and fabulous choreography, this is a fantastic opportunity to see CTC’s brand-new production of one of the all-time great musicals.

For their second show of the season, CTC are extremely excited to return to the Loughborough Town Hall to present the hugely popular musical Chicago from the 30th April to the 2nd May.

A story of murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery, and treachery, Chicago has gone on to become one of the most popular musicals of all time. Currently in its 23rd year on Broadway, the show was also made in to a Hollywood movie starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere and went on to win six Oscars.

CTC’s brand-new production of this iconic musical will star CTC favourites Lucy Brown as Roxie Hart, Julie Easter as Velma Kelly, Ashley Bright as Billy Flynn, Anita Benson as Mama Morton and Nick Sutcliffe as Amos Hart.

Due to license restrictions, Chicago will only be performed for three nights so it would be a crime to miss it!

Tickets for both shows can be ordered via the Loughborough Town Hall box office, or online at http://www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk

Photographs taken by Lynn Jackson, member of Shepshed Lions.

Shepshed Remembrance Service 2019 Article by Brenda Snape

On behalf of Shepshed Town Council, I would like to thank everyone who attended the service yesterday showing community support and respect for those who lost their lives. A special thank you to those who carried out marshalling duties during the parade to keep the public safe. Including, Shepshed Lions, Shepshed Cricket Club, Shepshed Rugby Club Tom Jarram, Alison Sharp Shepshed Special Community Bus, Paul Whitmore, Julie Rayson-Flynn, Ian A Scott- apologies if I forgotten anybody. Also, Members of the Clergy, Hathern Band and Leicestershire and Rutland Pipe Band for accompanying the service. Brenda Snape – Clerk to the Council.

CCTV Cameras To Tackle Fly-Tipping Article by Charnwood Borough Council

CCTV cameras are being deployed in Charnwood as the borough council steps up its fight against fly-tippers.

The council has introduced the cameras in various hot-spots across the area and it comes as the Council launches its annual Don’t Muck Around campaign to tackle enviro-crime.

Alan Twells, head of regulatory services at the Council, said: “The cameras are the latest weapon in the fight against fly-tipping in Charnwood. We are already proactive. Our enviro-crime officers investigate every incident and we issue fixed penalty notices or instigate a prosecution whenever possible. We are hoping the cameras will not only catch some people in the act but also act as a deterrent to would-be fly-tippers. Residents can also play a part in tackling fly-tipping. If you pay someone to dispose of your rubbish then please make sure they are licensed waste carriers because if they are not and your waste is flytipped, it could be you who ends up with a fine or in court. Sometimes people are approached on social media so we would advise residents to be wary. You can check if someone is a licensed waste collector by visiting the Environment Agency website. It is disappointing that the number of incidents in Charnwood has risen but we will continue to use all powers at our disposal to tackle the problem.”

In 2018/19 there were 852 fly-tipping incidents in Charnwood compared with 673 in 2017/18 and 603 in 2016/17.

When enough evidence is recovered from a fly-tip, the Council takes action. In 2017/18 the Council issued 17 fixed penalty notices, each for £400, totalling £6,800. The council will also take action in court and since 2015, Charnwood has successfully brought 22 prosecutions, with offenders being left with fines and costs plus a criminal record.

As well as fly-tipping, the Don’t Muck Around campaign will highlight littering issues. There is a particular focus on litter being thrown from vehicles and the Council is supporting a county-wide campaign to raise

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awareness of the issue.

The registered keeper of a vehicle can be issued a fixed penalty notice for £150 for littering, regardless of who threw the litter from the vehicle. Council street wardens have already taken part in some joint enforcement action with other councils in Leicestershire and more is being planned.

The Council street warden teams will also be carrying out patrols in areas where there have been complaints about littering and dog fouling.

For more information about what can and can’t be recycled or taken to the local tips, please visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/recycling

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Hathern Nursery Raises £2,939.20 To Support Loughborough Charity Article by Chris Mitchell

Family Fun Day held to celebrate the 30th birthday of Children 1st Day Nurseries raises funds for Loughborough charity ‘Living Without Abuse’ Children, staff and parents at Children 1st @ Hathern are pleased to have raised £2,939.20 at their recent Family Fun Day to support the provision of services by the charity ‘Living Without Abuse.’

The event was held in memory of someone close to Children 1st Day Nurseries and is part of the company’s ‘Year of Charitable Giving’ – a series of events aiming to raise money for local good causes as part of the nursery group’s 30th anniversary year.

The Family Fun Day benefitted from an amazing turn-out from families and the local community who generously supported this worthy cause. The day was full of fun and games with a great array of activities including pony rides, a tombola, splat the rat game, face and nail painting, temporary tattoos, a colouring competition, splat the staff and hook a fish. The event also featured live entertainment and, to the delight of the children, a visit from Peppa Pig! Local businesses such as Our Reusable Home, Osbourne Books, The Body Shop, Glass Works and Vicky’s Creations came along to add further variety to the event. More local support came in the form of donations of raffle prizes which featured over 65 great prizes, ranging from afternoon tea at the Hilton to a Snowdome Tobogganing Experience.

The event raised £1,469.60 on the day. Match funding by Children 1st Day Nurseries brought the overall total to a magnificent £2,939.20.

With the best interests of children and their families at the heart of its ethos, Children 1st, which has five nurseries in Leicestershire, decided to mark its 30th anniversary with a year-long programme of activity to raise funds for a range of children’s clubs, charities, groups and local initiatives. The company pledged to match fund all proceeds raised by its 24 nurseries as part of this.

Children 1st @ Hathern had good reasons for deciding to donate the money raised at its Family Fun Day, along with the contribution from the directors at the company’s head office in Long Eaton, to the Leicestershire charity ‘Living Without Abuse’ (LWA).

Dawn Dakin, manager of Children 1st @ Hathern, explains, “We became aware of the work of the LWA in supporting victims of domestic violence when a tragedy struck someone very close to us in our community.

LWA believes that all people have the right to live safely and without fear of violence and is committed to raising awareness of domestic abuse, working

towards its prevention and eradication, and assisting those affected by this crime to determine their own lives. We hope that our donation will help to support men and women experiencing domestic abuse across Leicestershire and Rutland and will go toward preventing other tragedies as happened in the family of someone dear to us here. The nursery team and I are so grateful to our families, the community and local businesses who made our Family Fun Day such a success and thank everyone involved for their kind support.”

Children 1st Day Nurseries plans further fundraising activity throughout its 30th anniversary year across its 24 settings within the Midlands and South Yorkshire. So far, just over £20,000 has been donated to the good causes nominated by individual nurseries.

Margaret Mason, Children 1st Founder and Chief Executive comments: “To celebrate our anniversary we wanted to involve all our settings and their local communities who have shown great support over the last 30 years. It’s our nursery teams, parents and carers, many of whom have been with us since we started, along with the local community, that have helped to make Children 1st the successful company it is today. We felt it was important to use this wonderful milestone to help children and their families who are facing difficult times and to do this throughout the year, so we have maximum impact. I am therefore delighted to support local and national good causes with a range of events at our nurseries.”

Since the company was formed in 1988 by Margaret Mason OBE and her family, it has grown to be one of the UK’s leading, family owned, childcare providers with 83% of its settings rated as ‘Outstanding in All Areas’ by Ofsted. The company now cares for 3,621 children and employs over 600 people.

Shepshed Ramblers Article by Margaret Pate

Shepshed Ramblers final walk of 2019, A Christmas Ho, Ho, Ho is a morning walk of no more than 5 miles, on Sunday 14 December in and around Ticknall. It will be followed by lunch at The Wheel in Ticknall. Walkers to meet in Shepshed Market Place for a 09.30 departure. Return will be between 2.00 and 3.00 pm. Anyone interested please ring either Margaret on 01509 600510 or Bernie on 01509 828328. A warm welcome is guaranteed.

Best Dressed Christmas Window 2019 Article by Brenda Snape

I am writing to invite you to enter into a competition for the 'Best Dressed Christmas Window'.

Judging will take place between 9th - 12th December, a plaque will be awarded to the best-dressed window and will be presented by the Chairman of Shepshed Town Council, Cllr Joan Tassell.

We hope that you will join in and help to brighten up Shepshed for the festive season. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and we look forward to admiring the Christmas Windows.

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Running Club Raise Over A £1,000 For Local Good Causes Article by Ray Draycott

The 19th running of Shepshed Running Clubs annual "7" mile race took place on the first Sunday in November. The two lap course is ran through the grounds of Garendon Park , part of which is not usually open to the public. Club Chairman Richard Bibb thanked the De Lisle family and Shepshed Camera Club for another year of their support. The race was a sellout and over £1,000 will be donated to local good causes. Richard added "2019 has been one of our most successful years. We have grown our membership, attracting new runners from both Shepshed and Hathern.

We also succeed in gaining promotion in the Leicestershire Road Running League. We are a inclusive club and welcome both beginners, joggers and experienced runners."

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Gold Pillar Boxes In Shepshed A Real Possibility Article by Roger Haycock

Two Shepshed athletes, Hollie Arnold and Thomas Young, won medals at the World Para-athletics Championships in Dubai on 11th November.

Hollie, who is originally from Grimsby now lives in Shepshed, won her fourth consecutive world title in the F46 javelin, winning gold and setting a new championship record with an incredible throw of 44.73m.

She faced stiff competition from New Zealand's Holly Robinson and was trailing in silver position until her fifth and final throw. Hollie is also reigning Paralympic, European and Commonwealth champion.

Thomas was born in Croydon but his Shepshed roots go back many generations and his parents moved back to the town before he went to school (Newcroft and Hindleys). He took silver in the T38 100m, missing gold by 0.007secs to China's Dening Zhu, but achieved a new personal best of 11.00 secs and set a new European record. Thomas is currently European Champion for both the 100m and 200m.

Both Shepshed athletes now have their sights set on the paralympics in Tokyo next year and will be training hard; making the prospect of gold pillar boxes in Shepshed a real possibility.

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Article by Graham Burton

Welcome to 2020 any X retired employees who would like to join the association. This is a list of events that will start in January. The 7th walk & talk group will be doing a walk round Attenbourgh Nature Resv. Meeting of there car park at 10:00am. On the 14th members meet at R-R Leisure Moor Lane at 1:00pm. The 15th a coach trip to Trentham Shopping Village & lunch at Marsh Farm.

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Church Services At St Botolph’s Church, Shepshed Article by Jill

8th December 10.00 am Holy Communion 10.00am Children’s Church 14th December 2.00 -6.00 pm Light a Life Come and remember the departed 15th December 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Children’s Church 4.00 pm Christingle 22nd December 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Holy Communion 3.30 pm Messy Church 6.00 pm Carol Service 24th December 2.00 pm Carol Service 4.00 pm Carol Service 6.00 pm Carol Service 11.00 pm Holy Communion 25th December 10.00 am Holy Communion with Carols 29th December 10.00 am Holy Communion Every Wednesday morning Holy Communion at 10.00 am at St Botolph’s Church

Church Services At St James Church, Oaks In Charnwood Article by Jill

8th December 8.30 am Joint Benefice Holy Communion 15th December 8.30 am Holy Communion 4.00 pm Carol Service 22nd December 8.30 am Holy Communion 4.00 pm Carol Service 24th December 8.00 pm Holy Communion

Christmas Lunch At The Glenmore Centre Article by Victoria Jacques

The Glenmore Centre will once again be hosting a Christmas Day Lunch for anyone from Shepshed who would otherwise be spending Christmas alone. A delicious three course Christmas Lunch is provided as well as music, drinks and a raffle. Transport can be provided if necessary. Anyone wishing to attend or wanting to find out more information should contact Victoria Jacques on 01509 650662 or Bernie Blood on 01509 508872.

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St. Botolph’s Church, Shepshed And St. James’ Church, Oaks In Charnwood Article by Jill

Tuesday Group Dec 17th Secret Santa and Carol Singing Messy Church St. Botolph’s runs Messy Church every 4th Sunday of the month from 3.30 pm. The next session on 22nd Dec will be The Christmas Party.

Men’s Fellowship Christmas Meal Fri 6th Dec 6.30pm—10.30 pm St. Botolph’s Church Hall

St. Botolph’s Mother’s Union Weds 11th Dec 2.30pm St. Botolph’s Church Carol Service Undertakers Christmas Service Weds 11th Dec 7 pm St. Botolph’s Church

Murder Mystery Evening Fri 13th Dec 6.30 pm for 7 pm St. Botolph's Church Hall Tickets are now on sale at £15 each (from Isobel) and include a 3 course meal. Get yours quickly, this is a popular event.

Oaks Christmas Concert Fri 13th Dec Times to be notified St. James’ Church Join us at St. James’ for our evening Annual Christmas Concert. As always, this event is being organised by Sandra Cook and Jenny Fountain.

Light a Life Service Sat 14th Dec 2 pm - 6 pm St. Botolph’s Church

Christingle Services Sun 15th Dec 4 pm St. James’ Church Tues 24th Dec 2 pm, 4 pm & 6 pm St. Botolph’s Church

Our Christingle services have been a success every year, but that success only comes from people like you! To continue to make this a success and to spread the loving word of God through Jesus, please consider helping. If you can help, please put your name on the signup sheet at the back of church.

If you want to know more about what Christingle services are about, please speak to your Wardens, the person sitting next to you, Rev'd Lydia or Rev'd John.

Loughborough Concert Band and Loughborough Male Voice Choir Sat 21st Dec 7 pm St. Botolph’s Church Free Entry-Donations for Church funds on exit.

Proceeds from the raffle are to support Passion.

Bring your friends and get into the spirit of Christmas.

Carol Services Sun 22nd Dec 4 pm St. James’ Church 6 pm St. Botolph’s Church

Christmas Eve Holy Communion Tues 24th Dec 8 pm St. James’ Church 11 pm St. Botolph’s Church

Communion and Carols Weds 25th Dec 10 am St. Botolph’s Church

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3,000 Free Trees To Give Away

Shepshed Word Of Life Church

Article by Ian Hilder

Sundays 10.30 am Morning Worship at Belton Street Chapel including Discoverers and Explorers for children.

6.00 pm Evening Worship at Kirkhill (except 22nd Dec – see below)

Article by Charnwood Borough Council Residents can apply for free trees under a scheme which has returned to Charnwood.

The borough council has once again teamed up with the National Forest and partner idverde to run the scheme which has 3,000 trees to give away and people have until January 10, 2020 to apply.

Matt Bradford, head of cleansing and open spaces at the Council, said: “We’re pleased to be offering our free tree scheme for the second year running. Following the success of last year, we’re giving away even more trees and I’d encourage residents to apply as soon as possible to snap up their free trees. Charnwood is part of the National Forest and this is one way to help make it even greener.”

Last year 2,000 trees were given away to local residents, community groups and parish councils in the borough.

Households and community groups are eligible to choose up to three trees and there is a choice of three varieties; holly, hazel and cherry plum.

The trees will be approximately 20cm – 40cm when they are collected. Each resident who applies for a free tree will be given a guide on how to look after them properly.

Trees will be allocated on a first come, first served basis and residents that apply for a free tree must be available to collect on one of the following dates and locations: Saturday January 18 2020, 10am-3pm – Central Park, Syston Saturday January 25 2020, 10am-3pm –Derby Road Playing Fields, Loughborough.

To apply online, all residents need to do is visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/ freetrees idverde manages the borough’s parks and open spaces on behalf of the Council.

The National Forest is right in heart of the country, embracing 200 square miles of the Midlands.

Thursdays 7.30 pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting at Kirkhill Christmas Services Sunday 22nd December 4.30 pm Carol Service at Belton Street Chapel Wednesday 25th December 10.00 am Christmas Morning Worship at Kirkhill

PHOTO: Latest painting 'Star Vase'. “I have used apples from our orchard and a checked cloth that satisfies my need for geometry - my dad was an engineer and I feel there is quite a lot of that construction in my work,” Jill reveals.

Artitst Jill Barthorpe Article by Timothy Saunders

For the last 13 years a successful professional artist has lived on the Leicester border.

Jill Barthorpe, whose work is exhibited in galleries throughout the UK, lives in a detached stone cottage in Sewstern, Grantham.

"We're on the border of Lincolnshire and Leicestershire; the border runs down the length of our house," explains Jill.

“I get up as soon as it's light and walk my dogs in the countryside then paint all day until either the light goes or I'm too tired,” she says, adding that she walks the dogs again in the afternoon.

“I love East Anglia - huge skies and open countryside - proper farming country.”

A graduate of Slade School of Art, Jill won a European scholarship and went to paint in South West France for a year. Returning to London she set up a studio but has always enjoyed a deep connection with the countryside and now works both in London and at her studio in rural Lincolnshire. “For me the excitement of painting is trying to capture the ‘likeness’ of things without slavish description. Paradoxically I find the most interesting way to carve out this reality is to use objects of an ephemeral nature: trees, clouds, flowers; their constant movement and the passage of the light during the day forces me to make decisions about their essential character and to attempt to draw that, rather than relay on an impression based on the moment. Similarly my approach to colour is to distil the essence and define the point of change rather than model the surface.” Over the past 20 years Jill has exhibited extensively in the UK and America including four solo exhibitions in London. Her paintings have been selected several times for ‘Critics Choice’ exhibitions and have been sold through Christie’s of London contemporary art sales. Her work also features in several important corporate collections. www.jillbarthorpe.co.uk

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Company At Christmas Tuesday 17th December & Thursday 2nd January, from 10.00 am onwards until 2.00 pm, at Kirkhill.

Are you lonely? Are you wanting some company over the festive season? Following the success of last year we are pleased to announce the return of ‘Company at Christmas’. Why not join us?

You can expect friendship, lunch, activities, a chance to sing a few carols, and a reflection on the true meaning of Christmas.

Contact Alison at Shepshed Council Office for tickets: 01509 650531 or 07834 228186. Transport available on request.

Term Time Activities Tuesdays 10.30am Ladies’ Bible Study 2.00pm Ladies’ Fellowship at Belton Street Chapel Wednesdays 10.30am-2.00pm Day Centre for Senior Folk at Kirkhill Thursdays 9.30am-11.00am Kirkhill Kangaroos (parent & toddler group) at Kirkhill Fridays 4.45pm-8.45pm Childrens’ and Young People’s activities for a wide range of ages, at Kirkhill.

For more information on any of these activities please visit www.shepshedwordoflife. org and click on ‘regular meetings and activities’, or ring 07473 952161, or email us at contact@ shepshedwordoflife.org.

6 Local Magazines Total Circulation 39,750 Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston, Swithland, Newtown Linford, Woodhouse & Woodhouse Eaves 6,000 Shepshed & Hathern 7,200 Ratby, Kirby Muxloe & Leicester Forest East 6,900 Coalville & Hugglescote 8000 Birstall & Wanlip 5,750 Rothley & Mountsorrel 5,900

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Cllr Keith Harris

T: 01509 557701 E: cllr.keith.harris@charnwood.gov.uk This is my final article of 2019 and there will be a flurry of events in the last month of the year.

I flagged up the Christmas Tree Festival at the church last time. Pop in sometime December 6-8, when the church will be open all day and full of beautifully decorated trees. At the end of this there will be a Xmas Songs of Praise among the trees at 19.30 on the Sunday.

At 19.00 on the 12th those two doughty stalwarts of the Hathern Village Association, Martin Clayton and Ben Hardy, will be doing a talk on the HVA at the library. They will be describing how it has grown from a humble beginning to mighty achievements in running festivals and events and of slogging away in rain, wind and blazing sun putting up and taking down huge marquees and long fences in a further attempt to show how this is all done by volunteers giving up their time and, in some cases, annual leave. I am doing my best to convince the borough officers that the events are not commercial so that they can apply for a grant to get a new marquee. Sadly, they are a victim of their own hard work and success because the events have grown organically to a size and scope that they look like commercial ventures ,which disguises their charitable and community-based nature. The recent financial loss due to adverse weather conditions did not help. Residents who would like to support their bid could lobby the grant people to show that the public is aware of the hard work done solely by volunteers and that it would be a legitimate use of public funds to award them a grant.

This has become even more urgent now as we were unable to take the marquee down after the fireworks event and eventually had to take it down and leave it in place as it was getting damaged. It is still lying on the ground getting wet. The HVA have asked if anyone knows of anywhere they could lay it out to dry. I have asked about Garendon school but haven’t heard back yet. If anyone can think of a site, even one section at a time, please get in touch with them.

The financial situation means that the Wicked Hathern Fest will lie fallow in 2020 but there will be several mini events to replace it. The new roundabout on the A6 will result in a road going across the festival field but will not prevent the events taking place there.

The school are holding their Xmas Fair on the 13th from 15.30 – 1700 with a Santa’s grotto, stalls, raffle and games. Entrance is a snip at 50p with children free.

Not to be missed the next day at 19.00 at the Village Hall is a version of ‘Christmas Carol’ called ‘Scrooge’ featuring the Chair of the Parish Council, Councillor Roy Dann, in the starring role and anyone who attends parish meetings will have to take their hat off to the casting team and will know which word he adopts whenever the planning department comes up! But no doubt the real Roy with his heart of gold will come out at the end. You must register for this event.

Next day again on the 15th Hathern Band are playing carols live in the village from 10.30. They have two new cornets from a member’s grant.

That means that my £1,000 is spent for this year.

If you’re not carolled out by the 18th, you can sing some more in the church at 19.30 accompanied by piano.

Just before Xmas on the 21st the library is hosting a Family Fun Day with stories, games and crafts from 10.30 to 11.30. Maybe a bit early for those Hathern blokes who haven’t bought any presents yet but a further opportunity to get stocking fillers. I would imagine there will be a book sale as well, space permitting.

The year ends and the new will be hailed in with fireworks. Gather round the cross at 23.45 for music, a welcome from Little Ben the HVA Chairman and chimes from Big Ben. I’ll leave it to readers to work out the date.

Two significant planning applications have been submitted, both for extensions, by the library and the Hathern Band. The former will mean that there will be more space for events and the latter is much needed to accommodate the growing number of players requiring tuition and practice.

At a recent councillor surgery with the police in Dishley, the other half of the ward, I asked the sergeant what he thought about the increasing tendency of people to post photos and comments about their holidays on Facebook, thus advertising their absence. He replied that the police advise against this practice on grounds of safety so that there is no risk of adding to the normal risk of burglaries. Perhaps it would be better to curb the urge to share until you get back.

Emma and I would like to wish all residents a wonderful Xmas in this wonderful village and a prosperous New Year which will be crammed again with a huge number of events and activities.

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Gary Godden Labour Candidate For Charnwood Dear Charnwood, I am asking for your support standing to be your MP in the coming General Election. The choice here in Charnwood is between me – your strong voice for all of the community – or the local Conservative.

I come to politics with real-life experience of working in our public services for the NHS and the Police Service, where swingeing budget cuts and austerity have been challenging for both employees and service users. As a Police Officer with 15 years’ service I worked in the ‘Ending Gang and Youth Violence’ team, which engaged with young people and ex-offenders helping them to exit the gang lifestyle.

I will be a strong voice for all of the community, and I recognise the importance of your local MP getting across Labour’s message to everyone. It demands an MP who will engage with the whole constituency across a diverse and wide geographical area. I am very proud to represent Labour as their policies and values reflect the opportunities that I have had in my life.

It‘s not good enough simply to explain the damage that this government is doing, but as your Labour candidate, I will communicate my values, which will protect vital services, our economy, our NHS, our education, our public services and our communities.

I am a committed Trade Unionist and campaigner on equality and diversity. A vote for me is a vote for…

Our NHS – Give patients the care that they need, through increased NHS funding, more doctors and nurses and an end to privatisation and integrate the NHS with social care.

Our Education – Invest in our children’s futures, with a National Education Service that is free for all.

Our Economy – Kick-start a green industrial revolution to tackle the climate emergency and create high skilled, high waged jobs.

Our Public Services – Deliver properly funded, world-class public services run for people not profit and build affordable homes for local people in the right locations.

Our Brexit – End the Brexit crisis by taking the decision back to the people with the choice of a credible leave offer or remain. Labour will transform our Country.

Gary Godden Labour candidate for Charnwood P.S. Vote for me and I promise that I will listen to - and fight for - all in Charnwood.

Gary4Charnwood@gmail.com FB: Gary Godden for Charnwood Twitter: @Gary4Charnwood

Serenade Sings Christmas Movie Songs Article bv Lynn Atkin

Serenade, the much-loved Shepshed Women's Community Choir, is holding their annual Christmas concert on 14th December, themed around Christmas Movies.

Songs include Somewhere in my Memory from Home Alone, Walking in the Air from The Snowman, White Christmas, and a very unique rendition of the 12 days of Christmas.

This year the choir are fund-raising for BeatTN which aims to raise money for research into a cure for Trigeminal Neuralgia, an excruciating, facial pain condition. Two of the choir’s members are closely related to a sufferer of this terribly debilitating illness. For more details see BeatTN.org Last year the choir’s charity was Admiral Nurses and they raised a staggering £5000. This money will go towards getting an Admiral Nurse for Leicestershire, which will help local families coping with dementia.

Serenade are hugely grateful for all the support from their family, friends and the local community and are looking forward to getting you in the Christmas spirit, so why not come along and hear some wonderful songs on 14th December at Iveshead School (Building A), from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Tickets cost £6 for adults and £3 for children and are available from serenadeshepshed@outlook.com or 07866 439278

Brunch In aid of

Saturday 7th December 11.00am 1.00pm Shepshed Town Council Offices

Brunch In aid of

Saturday 7th December 11.00am 1.00pm Shepshed Town Council Offices

Conservative Town Councillors

Have Yourself A Merry Stress-Free Christmas Article by Gary Trickett

Advent calendars to the ready… the countdown to the big day has begun!

The lead-up to Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year, not to mention one of the most stressful.

Worry not! The following tips should help to ensure this Christmas is memorable for all the right reasons.

Step back and take a deep breath.

If you keep thinking about the mountain of jobs you have to do, you’ll soon feel overwhelmed. Break them down into small, manageable tasks.

Control your breathing. By taking fewer but deeper breaths you will optimise your oxygen intake, helping you to relax and remain calm.

Brilliant for when your family make helpful suggestions.

Watch your diet. In times of stress, certain nutrients are used in larger quantities than normal so increase supply where necessary. The B vitamins and magnesium help to support the nervous system, vitamin C helps to support your adrenal glands and iron is important for energy.

As far as herbals are concerned, Passiflora has been used for centuries as a mild sedative and is particularly beneficial when mixed with other restorative herbs such as Avena sativa. Together they help to combat the physical and mental symptoms of stress, helping to prolong sleep time, relieve muscle tension and alleviate mild anxiety.

If stress is affecting your sleep, try Valerian; it is recognised for its calming action and is thought to inhibit the breakdown of GABA, a chemical transmitter that enables you to ‘cross over’ into sleep.

Finally, keep moving! Exercise is a great way of beating stress and it causes the brain to produce more endorphins, the so-called ‘happy hormones’.

Now, where did you put those baubles?

For further advice, visit Gary and his team at Healthy Route, 18 Silver Street, Leicester.

ADDING WARMTH TO YOUR HOME FOR WINTER

By Laura Whiley Owner & Interior Designer Louie Anne Interiors

We spend a lot of time in winter in our own homes and enjoying time with family, lets make it cosy!

Here are my 3 top tips for adding warmth to your space without having to re-decorate.

Adding Colour Adding accessories in cosy colours, such as oranges, red, deep purples, browns and greens create a deep cosy space. These colours can be added via textures, cushions, ornaments, and throws. We see a great deal of reasonably priced accessories on out high streets, making it a very affordable option.

COLOUR

LIGHTING

TEXTURE

Lighting Lighting plays a huge factor in any Interior Design project I work on. It is ever so important to create a mood for an Interior. Top tip; Swap 'cool' bulbs for 'warm will create a warmer room.

Candles at different levels in a group add a visual effect, and the flickering light is relaxing and warming (Just make sure their put out, when you out!)

Battery/Fairy lights are a great way to add a warm light and can be hung around anything.

Switch of the main 'task' lighting and used this secondary 'Ambient' lighting to create to add to the cosy, warm space.

Texture Things to touch, and feel, that large soft throw that we can wrap around ourselves with a hot chocolate and Christmas film. Add plush faux fur rugs to dining chairs. Layer throws on furniture, faux fur, knitted or fleece and spend your winter days together snuggled in your cosy space!

www.louieanneinteriors.com / laura@louieanneinteriors.com

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We would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

On 30th October a presentation was given to the Town Council by Victoria Coomber regarding the Armed Forces Covenant.

Following this presentation the Town Council went on to discuss and sign the covenant which states: We, the undersigned, commit to honour the Armed Forces Covenant and support the Armed Forces Community. We recognise the value Serving Personnel, Regular and Reservists, Veterans and military families contribute to our business and our country.

Only two of the Town Councillors voted against signing this covenant they were Cllrs Roy Kershaw and Jane Lennie.

Cllr Peter Grainger has agreed to be the Town Council Champion for the Armed Forces.

Your Town Councillors visited the exhibition at the Town Council offices to view the Draft Local Plan exhibition and spoke to residents who were there and listened to their concerns. The Town Council will be co-ordinating a response to send off to the consultation. A cross party subcommittee has been set up to look into the details of this Draft Local Plan, made up of Cllrs. Bebbington, Kershaw, Lennie, Northage, Radford and Tassell and will report back to the Council meeting on December 4th. A copy of this can be viewed at the Town Council Offices and will be available at our monthly surgery on 7th December.

All members of the Town Council were invited along with the Clerk to the Town Council to a Civic Presentation given by the Mayor of Charnwood in October. An enjoyable evening was had by everybody who attended.

Remembrance Sunday was well attended and a wreath was laid on behalf of the Town Council by the Council Chairman Cllr Tassell, fortunately the weather stayed fine after all the rain we have had recently.

We are pleased to report that the newly co-opted Town Councillor Paul Price has joined the Conservative on the Town Council.

Vandalism – again the bus shelter in the Bull Ring has been vandalised, this cost the Town Council money to repair it and this is your rate payers’ money which could be spent on other things in the Town. If you know who keeps doing this please report to the office or police.

Your Conservative Cllrs are:- Bill Bebbington, Eric Chapman, Denis Forster, Peter Grainger, David Northage, Robin Popley, Paul Price, Christine Radford, John Savage, Paul Spencer, Joan Tassell and Ian Williams. If you wish to contact any of the Town Councillors put in their names eg cllr.christine.radford@shepshedtowncouncil.org followed by @ shepshedtowncouncil.org

Charnwood Road Baptist Church Article by Maureen Walbey Sunday 8th December 10.45 am Morning Worship 6.00 pm Evening Worship Sunday 15th December 10.45 am Advent Service and communion 6.00 pm Carol Service Sunday 22nd December 10.45 am All Age Family Service 6.00 pm Christmas Reflective Celebration Wednesday 25th December 10.00 am Christmas Morning Worship Sunday 29th December 10.45 am Morning Worship 6.00 pm Evening Worship

SHEPSHED church of Christ

CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE SUNDAY 22nd December 11.00 At Shepshed Town Council Offices

Followed by Mince Pies and Refreshments

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Cllr Christine Radford T: 01509 502974 M: 07796 544817 E: christine_radford@hotmail.com

As your County Councillor I would like to wish all residents a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I am always on hand to try and deal with any concerns you may have about services provided by Leicestershire County Council. Such as street lighting, highways, footpaths, overhanging trees and hedges onto the highways/footpaths, social services etc.

Date For Your Diary In May 2020 there will be an election for a Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. The Conservative Prospective Candidate is Rupert Matthews and I have therefore booked the Glenmore Centre on Thorpe Road to enable Shepshed residents to meet him and ask him questions.

The date is Saturday 25th January at 2.30 pm. Rupert has an online survey www.rupertmatthews.org.uk for you to make your views known.

Also in attendance will be myself and some of your Borough and Town Councillors. We look forward to seeing and speaking with you.

A512 Road Works Whilst County are working at the junction with Charnwood/Ashby Road/Iveshead with temporary traffic lights the semi –permanent traffic lights at Leicester Road junction are currently set to the same timings as the existing lights, the reason they are still in place is to allow County’s contractors to return when necessary to continue their works, they will then be able to adjust the timings as required.

The site can be emailed directly A512improvements@morgansindall. com if you have queries about the work at J23 and A512 improvements the Public Liaison Officer, Beth Miles will respond.

Reply From County Following Petition Regarding White Lines Top Of Charnwood Road With Ashby Road According to the response from County, these lines were only instigated following a request from a member of the public, (I would love to meet them) as your County Councillor I never got to comment on them before the alterations. County can see no problem following these alterations which are now causing major problems with vehicles trying to leave Gelders Hall, Meggitt and the Ford garage in the area.

I have had meetings with owners of businesses in Gelders Hall regarding parking and have in fact arranged a site visit with an officer from County. I will report on this next month. I will ask why they thought it was a good idea to do away with the left turn from Iveshead Road onto Ashby Road but had not considered doing a left filter lane from Charnwood Road into Ashby Road whilst the right filter lane from Ashby Road into Charnwood Road is active, this would move traffic forward in Charnwood Road rather than it be stationary.

Recycling And Household Waste Site The proposed site which was closed from 2nd September for a period of 12 weeks has now been completed, This was to carry out essential maintenance works to meet Environment Agency standards for drainage.

The site was re-opened as planned on Monday 25th November.

Footpath L7 from Butt Hole Lane L17 to Boundary Way I have received a number of complaints regarding the state of this footpath which runs to the rear of the new houses currently being built

by Persimmon on Hathern Road. County is aware that the builder has encroached and blocked this footpath and enforcement action has already started, but unfortunately this can take time.

Country Parks And Open Spaces Strategy 2019-2029 The draft Country Parks and Open Spaces Strategy was referred to the Scrutiny Commission for comment and the strategy will be submitted to the Cabinet in March 2020. County’s major parks will be developed as a network of destinations, catering for the local community that they serve but also attracting residents and visitors. These parks are Snibston Country Park, Beacon Hill Country Park, Broombriggs Farm and Windmill Hill, Watermead Country Park, Market Bosworth Country Park and Bosworth Battlefields Country Park.

County’s secondary parks and open spaces, whilst not having the same scope as our major/destination parks, are still a significant part of

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the green infrastructure. They will still be managed in accordance with the primary themes of the strategy but perhaps with them there will be even greater opportunity to involve and engage the local community and partners and they are therefore classified more as local parks than destination parks. These parks are Donington Le Health Country Park, Jubilee Wood, Sheet Hedges Wood, Burrough Hill Country Park, Sarah’s Wood, Donisthorpe Woodlands, Saltersford Valley Picnic Areas, Bagworth Heath, New Lount Nature Reserve, Oakthorpe Picnic Area, Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail and Brampton Valley Way. The purpose of the strategy is to use the parks and open spaces and to provide multiple benefits to support residents and communities of today and tomorrow. There is now an opportunity to use the green spaces to tackle a wide range of ecological and environmental benefits and beyond.

Undeniably, many of the solutions for preserving and protecting the natural environment are also potential enablers to support health and wellbeing and develop local communities and the local economy. In a nutshell, the aim of the strategy is to explore a sustainable way to manage and fund the parks and open spaces across Leicestershire so that they can be utilised to support broader strategic priorities and align with the needs of County’s residents and communities as well as national, regional and local policy priorities.

Local Beat Team - Police See below the contact details for the Police Local Beat Team if you wish to contact them via email, I thought you might find these details useful:PCSO Kelly Davis – Kelly.Davis@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk Sgt. Lee Taylor – Lee.Taylor@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk PC Danielle Mistretta – Danielle.Mistretta@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk PC Richard Neville – Richard.Neville@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk Police Inspector Mark Botte – Mark.Botte@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk New Equality Strategy For Leicestershire You are invited to comment on Leicestershire County Council’s draft Equality Strategy 2020-24. The council’s current strategy ends in 2020 and, to continue their commitment to equality, fairness and respect in everything they do, council are consulting on a new strategy for 2020-24.

The strategy has two aims: • For Leicestershire County Council to be recognised or its leadership and high performance in advancing equality of opportunity and celebrating diversity and inclusion • For Leicestershire to be a place where there is equality of opportunity, that is free from discrimination, harassment and victimisation and there are good relations between different people in the community.

How To Have Your Say: The consultation is now open and runs for three months until midnight on Sunday, 2nd February 2020. The draft strategy and online questionnaire, including an easy read version and British Sign Language video about consultation, can be accessed at: www.leicestershire.gov.uk/equality-strategy-consultation If you require a paper copy or any other accessible format – Braille, large print, audio – or language, please contact equality@leics.gov.uk or by telephone on 0116 305 5501 Development Of A New Model For Homelessness Prevent And Housing-Related Support A report was taken to Cabinet on 22nd October by the director of public health and the purpose of the report was to advise the Cabinet of the outcome of the consultation on a proposed new model for homelessness prevention and housing-related support and to set out the recommended option for similar support which it is intended would be put in place from April 2020.

It was recommended that: • An external provide is commissioned to deliver a combination of both hostel-based accommodation and outreach housing-related support for people at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness in Leicestershire, which would: 1. Reflect the alternative proposal put forward as part of the consultation on changes to the current housing-related support service, 2. Deliver hostel-based accommodation which matches the current level of provision (30 beds)

3.

4.

Provide more than 3 full-time equivalent specialist housing-related support workers, Ensure cross-Leicestershire outreach housing-related support and equality of access

Transitions – Preparing For Adulthood A report from the Director of Adults and Communities was discussed at the Adults and Communities overview and scrutiny committee on 11th November. The Whole Life Disability Strategy and associated protocol for young people with special educational needs or a disability, “Preparing for Adulthood” was approved by the Cabinet on 14th September 2018.

The Preparing for Adulthood protocol has been developed jointly between the Children and Family Services (CFS) and Adults and Communities (A&C) Departments and outlines how children and young people should be involved in decision making, careers advice, the Local Offer, Post-16 programmes and funding arrangements. The Local Offer gives children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) and their family’s information about help and services in Leicestershire. Partners have been engaged in the development of the protocol and pathway that sets out clearly what needs to happen at each stage with a young person.

The key priorities include:• Ensuring the availability of appropriate accommodation and support services; • Ensuring that staff have the right level of skills to support young people; • Projecting future need accurately as young people have increasing levels of need; The current work of the Transitions Team is predominantly from the Year 12 cohort, the school year when young people turn 17 years old. County are working to move this earlier with detailed assessment and planning commencing at year 11. The Transitions Team already attend parent evenings and open days for younger pupils in special schools, to promote understanding of adult life and support options. This offer will be developed, and County will explore the benefits of more focussed input beginning, at Year 9, for those with the most significant levels of need.

Advance Notice Of A Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) A temporary road closure is required on Ashby Road East for 8 nights.

The road will be closed between the M1 junction 23 and Ingleberry Road, in both directions on 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 16th,17th and 18th December, 20.00 hours till 06.00 hours each night.

I have just been informed by the contractors that the works on Abbey Road/Oaks Road in Charley are going to be postponed until early 2020. An updated notification will be sent out once the new dates are confirmed.

Road Safety Awareness I have been asked to bring to your attention now that dark nights are here so wear something light or reflective so that you can be seen, especially if you ride a bike or are running.

Please be aware of horses whilst driving, slow down and give them space, the British Horse Society continue to be concerned at the amount of incidents being reported, Hathern Road is like a race track at times.

Your Help Again I would like to thank the residents who keep me informed regarding issues around Shepshed, such as overgrown hedges, litter, dog mess, inconsiderate parking (on pavements, yellow lines, outside of schools) etc., without your eyes and ears I could not get them reported and sorted.

If for some reason you do not receive your copy of the Eye. I now have my information posted on my web page at County. This will also help you to keep track on road closures etc.

For help and advice on County matters, I can be contacted on 01509 502974 or e mail christine_radford@hotmail.com or christine.radford@ leics.gov.uk or come along to my monthly Surgery on the FIRST Saturday of the month in the Town Council Offices, 47a Charnwood Road 1011am. No appointment is necessary.

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Cllr Christine Radford T: 01509 502974 M: 07796 544817 E: christine_radford@hotmail.com

We would like to wish all our residents a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We can be contacted on matters concerning Charnwood Borough Council. We deal with housing problems, (such as trying to move house, unsatisfactory improvement work being carried out on your Council property) problems with neighbours, Anti-Social Behaviour, whether or not you live in a Council property or a privately owned property. We also deal with planning and Environmental Health issues.

Planning P/19/2165- 60 Glenmore Ave – proposed 2 storey extension to rear of existing dwelling P/19/1733/2 – 27 Purbeck Ave – erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling P/19/1849/2 – 58 Lacey Court – formation of dropped kerb to Pharmacy P19/2158/2 - 17 Oxford Street – proposed single storey extensions to front, side and rear of existing dwelling P/19/2221/2 – land adjoining 6, Glenmore Ave – erection of one dwelling house.

P/191546/2 – Little Haw Lane playing fields – erection of 2 fixed dugouts next to existing football pitch.

P/19/2349/2 – 42 Orchard Cl – erection of two storey side extension and single storey rear extension. (Revised scheme P/19/0439/2) P/19/2296/2 – 183 Conway Dr – erection of detached garage and installation of dropped curb P/19/1955/2 – 4 Sandringham Rise – proposed raised patio to the rear and single storey extension to side of dwelling Approved Planning Applications P/18/2058/2 – Saley Close – erection of 5 two storey dwellings was granted conditionally P19/0524/2 - We have also listed for information an application on land off Snells Nook Lane:- Wilson Bowden Developments Ltd., have applied for outline planning permission for the development of a Science and Enterprise Park. The provision of a main site access on to the A512 Ashby Road and two secondary vehicular and pedestrian accesses on to Snells Nook Lane. This is for the provision of a mixed use ‘hub’ including shops, restaurants and cafes, drinking establishments, hot food takeaway, hotel, nursery and gym. For more details please go to the planning application to see the full extent of this proposal. This was deferred at a planning committee on 21st November.

Consultation Planned On Updated Vision For Charnwood’s Future Your Borough Cllrs attended the exhibition and spoke to residents and will forward comments regarding these proposals. We are very disappointed that the Cotes area of Loughborough was not mentioned as part of these proposals, we will ask why?

It appears that Charnwood want you to only comment on line rather than on paper as there was no address made available for people to comment this way.

We were also of the opinion that a better map showing what was being proposed for Shepshed should have been made available.

For those who were unable to get to the exhibition the Town Council has a hard copy of report and their hours of opening are 9-3 pm MondayThursday and 9-1 pm Friday. We will have the copy of the proposals at our monthly surgery on Saturday 7th December 10-11 am.

The boards which were on display at the exhibition will be left for residents to look at the Glenmore Centre, Thorpe Road from 6th December for 2 weeks. There will be no officer available to ask questions.

There was a typing error regarding the number of properties last month it should have read:Land rear of 62 Iveshead Road 76 dwellings Land off Ashby Road West – 27 dwellings Council Wins Award For Work With Stray Dogs Charnwood Borough Council has been recognised by the RSPCA for its outstanding work with dogs. The RSPCA PawPrints Awards cover five areas of service provided by the public sector that has an impact on animal welfare, including stray dog services, housing, contingency planning, animal establishments licensing and kennelled dog welfare.

Charnwood has won gold for its work to look after stray dogs in the borough, in partnership with College Gath Kennels in Hathern. In the past year, the council has collected 114 stray dogs from across the

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borough, a 25% decrease on last year when 151 strays were collected.

They are taken to College Garth Kennels and kept there for a minimum of seven days. If unclaimed, the dogs are made available for rehoming.

For more information about how the council looks after stray animals visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/animals_stray.

Loughborough Wins Gold At Britain In Bloom Finals Loughborough has struck gold at the national RHS Britain in Bloom finals. Earlier this year the town was selected to represent the region in the small city category at the national awards organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

The Britain in Bloom judges visited Loughborough during the summer for a three-hour tour of the town. Volunteers and community groups were able to show case their gardening projects and initiatives.

Derry, Harrogate, Kirkcaldy and Rugby had also been nominated for the small city category in the national competition. Derry was named as overall category winner. £162,000 To Help Council Bid For Up To £25million For Loughborough Regeneration Charnwood Borough Council has been awarded £162,000 to kick-start a bid for up to £25 million of investment in Loughborough. The town is one of 100 places around the country which the government has invited to bid for a multi-million pound Town Deal, The deals aim to regenerate town centres, boost businesses and improve infrastructure. The towns are sharing £16.4 million to develop their plans and bring their communities together.

The funding could be used to redevelop vacant buildings and land, drive private sector investment by supporting small businesses and ensure young people have the skills they need to get good jobs.

Communities will also be able to consider how they can boost their transport links and increase access to high-speed broadband.

Charnwood Borough Council is encouraging people to get involved in the campaign by visiting www.com/mytowncampaign.co.uk and have a say.

Letting Agent Fined £80,000 Over Unlicensed Properties A letting agent has been fined £80,000 for failing to license four houses of multiple occupation in Loughborough, in Forest Road, William Street, Fearon Street and Arthur Street. Orange Living Ltd., trading as Loc8me and based in Loughborough, pleaded guilty under the Housing Act 2004 at Leicester Magistrates’ Court. The prosecution was brought by Charnwood Borough Council.

Since 2006, all properties in England and Wales which are three storeys or more and occupied by five or more people who are not all related must be licensed by the local authority.

Last year the borough council was informed that Leicestershire Fire and Rescue had been called to a fire in the attic of a three-storey building in Forest Road. The fire service discovered the smoke detection was battery only, some of the batteries were missing, the detector in the attic had sounded but not very loudly and there were no fire doors along the protected escape route from the second floor.

Magistrates Fined Orange Living £20,000 For Each Of The Four Offences And Ordered The Company To Pay Of £3,690 Charnwood would encourage landlords to make sure they are complying with the legislation. If they are not sure, then please get in touch with the Council as we would much rather work with people than use the courts and are happy to give advice.

Lottery Celebrates Fantastic First Year Since launching last year lottery players have raised over £22,000 for a variety of good causes including village halls, community libraries, swimming clubs, play groups, scout groups and various charities. In Shepshed these include the Community Bus, Volunteer Centre, Toy Library and many others.

The lottery was launched to help raise money for good causes in the borough which is exactly what it’s done. For every £1 ticket purchased, 60p goes towards helping good causes in the borough. When a player chooses to support one of the registered good causes, the organisation will receive a 50p donation, with 10p going towards a central community fund. If no charity is chosen, all 60p goes to the community fund. The council will use the community fund to continue to support local project and good causes through its grants scheme.

The top prize in Charnwood Community Lottery is £25,000. To play the Charnwood Community Lottery or to find out more about being one of the good causes, visit www.charnwoodlottery.co.uk

Refuse Collection Just a reminder that your bins should be outside by 6 am on the day of collection.

If you are finding your recycling bin is not big enough, you can always ask for recycling sacks by calling the contact centre on 01509 634563.

Look out for information soon regarding collections over the Christmas and New Year period. There is never a collection for Garden Waste over the holiday period.

Get Active And Have Fun With Girl Power Women in Charnwood are being invited to enjoy an afternoon of fun and exercise whilst raising money for charity on Sunday December 15th.

Girl Power is organised by the Borough council’s Active Charnwood team in partnership with TayPlay SPORT and Fusion Lifestyle. The event aims to empower and engage women and girls into sport participation.

A 20 per cent donation from ticket sales will be given to local charity Living Without Abuse. The charity supports women, men and children that have been affected by domestic abuse.

The event is for women and girls aged 8 and over and is being held at Loughborough Leisure Centre between 12-3pm. There will be a range of activity taster sessions to choose from including netball, Boogie Bounce, Bangra Blaze, Glow Beatz and 60 ft inflatables.

There will be stalls available providing information on health and wellbeing, arts and crafts activities and glitter stations. Tickets are £8 per family and include free t-shirts for everyone taking part.

For more information and to buy your tickets visit: https://www. taxplaysport.co.uk/girlpower Monthly Surgeries We shall continue to hold our regular monthly surgery on the FIRST Saturday of the month in the Town Council offices, Charnwood Road, from 10-11am. No appointments are necessary.

Robin Popley and John Savage East Ward and Christine Radford and Joan Tassell West Ward telephone 502974, 506661,or email cllr.joan. tassell@charnwood.gov.uk, cllr.christine.radford@charnwood.gov.uk; cllr. robin.popley@charnwood.gov.uk and cllr.john.savage@charnwood.gov.uk advertorial

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