March 2020 Shepshed & Hathern Community Eye

SHEPSHED

HATHERN

COMMUNITY EYE 7,200 COPIES DELIVERED EVERY MONTH - MARCH 2020

Ladies - An Evening For You

Tuesday 31st March Fashion Show, St Botolph's Hall

Living With Scoliosis My Journey To Recovery And Inspiration To Help Others

Natural Beautii Celebrates Its 5th Year In Business And Raises £600

By Holding A Charity Open Day In Aid Of Miscarriage Association

Loughborough Carillon Tower & War Memorial Museum Appeal

Can You Or A Local Business Help Donate?

Burning Spring Poetry Workshop

At The Old Curiosity Bookshop And Tea Room Hathern Using Pure Water, We Clean: Gutters and Fascias, Barge Boards, Windows & Conservatories, PV Panels

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Pilates You’ve heard of Pilates — yes?

Now try it yourself & change your life!

Let us show you how…

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Reformer Pilates Micro-group (only four participants) Reformer classes in Loughborough, Monday to Saturday. New Beginners Reformer classes starting soon on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. FREE Taster Classes available.

The Pilates Reformer is the original and best way to do Pilates and our new Beginners Reformer classes represent the absolute best way to start.

See our website: www.jtp.news for details of Pilates Reformer classes with us, or contact us (see below) for further information or to book your Free Taster Reformer Class.

Absolute Beginners Matwork Workshops

Matwork classes around the area

❏ Absolute Beginners classes are very small, so your Coach can work

We also have regular matwork Pilates classes in venues around the area — if you’ve not tried Pilates with us already, please do take up our offer of a FREE Taster Class and find out for yourself what Pilates is, and how it can help YOU. Full instructions and modifications are given, and you’ll find our classes are friendly and fun…

Ideal if you have never done Pilates before — we have micro-group Absolute Beginners Workshops. You start at the basics of Pilates and build up to the point where you are ready to join one of our regular matwork classes. There’s a lot of advantages: with you closely. On completion you will be able to move into any of our regular matwork classes going forward

❏ You get a 52 page full-colour book of all exercises in your weekly class

Take a FREE Taster Class with us!

Limited spaces are available in the following classes:

❏ You also receive weekly videos

of exercises in the class by email.

Our next Absolute Beginners Workshops are planned on Tuesday mornings and Thursday evenings in March/April — cost £60.

Spaces are very strictly limited so get in touch quickly to enrol. Email details below.

Absolute Beginners Workshops are one-off, three week courses — setting you up to move into one of our regular classes going forward.

See the information to the right about our regular matwork classes.

Email us on the address below for further details and to book your space.

❏ Quorn Village Hall: Monday 9.15am, 10.30am, and Beginners at 11.45am ❏ St Gregory’s Social Centre, Sileby: Monday 9.30am & 10.30am, 6.30pm & 7.30pm ❏ Hathern Community School: Monday 6pm & 7pm ❏ Rosebery Street Medical Centre, Loughborough: Monday 6pm & 7pm ❏ Rempstone Village Hall: Tuesday 9.30am ❏ Rosebery Street Medical Centre, Loughborough: Tuesday 5.45pm & 6.45pm ❏ Rosebery Street Medical Centre: Wednesday 9.30am & 10.30am, 5pm, 6pm & 7pm ❏ Rempstone Village Hall: Thursday 6.30pm & 7.30pm ❏ Rosebery Street Medical Centre, Loughborough: Thursday Beginners at 6pm ❏ Rempstone Village Hall: Friday 9.30am ❏ Hathern Community School: Friday 5.30pm & 6.30pm Note: unless labelled Beginners these are Mixed Level classes.

Other classes and Pilates Packages are available too — see our website below.

Spaces in all classes are strictly limited so please get in touch quickly for more details and to book your space.

Website: www.jtp.news

Email us at office@janethomaspilates.co.uk for details of how to book, or call on 07778 019 765 and leave a message

Contact Us

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Next Issue Out

Deadline Date: 25th March Delivery Date: 6th April

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

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Use this link: https://issuu.com/norwoodpress The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the original advertisers & contributors and do not necessarily represent OpenBox Promotions Ltd. OpenBox Promotions Ltd reserves the right to amend or refuse to publish articles or adverts submitted for publication. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. To see full terms & conditions visit www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/terms

Burning Spring Poetry Workshop At the Old Curiosity Bookshop Hathern Article by Tina Gayle

Saturday 18th April 5.30pm – 7.30pm Dream-Drops & Doodles on Okra Facilitated by Bea Ngozi Udeh Bea Ngozi Udeh has written an immersive poetry collection that makes big kids want to dive in, doodle and decode. Each poem has been crafted using seaside adventures, headline news stories and reflections of childhood.

Full of quirky language and susurrating narratives crossing from Nigeria to Norfolk. From Japan and back to Derby, this is a mind affirming and visual feast served with hand drawn tales of sliced okra, of course.

About the Author Bea Ngozi Udeh is a writer, creative producer and trained facilitator. She enjoys creating chewy moments on the page, whilst in person she mixes language and experiences to convey laughter and poignant memories. Bea has written professional theatre reviews, evaluation reports, prose and poetry for over 3 decades. Bea loves to speak at events large or intimate and facilitates workshops for adults, for creative writers and people in care homes and schools.

Burning Spring is the inspiration for this mid-season workshop led by Creative Producer and funky protagonist, Bea Udeh. Bea enjoys producing a range of activities and events including leadership and creative writing workshops to encourage personal development and increase your confidence.

In 2019, Bea published her first collection, Dream-Drops and Doodles on Okra, which includes doodles to colour in beside her poetry to immerse yourself in.

Bea has put together an interactive session where you will: 1. Explore your creativity through critical analysis of some of Bea's poetry 2. Find inspiration to produce poetry from everyday objects and natural things like okra 3. Create your own doodle poem to take home and frame This is the time to rid your winter blues and embrace your creativity with Bea in the burning spring.

12 places are available for this workshop at £5 per person and must be booked in advance. Tickets available from the Bookshop NOW… Phone 0773 773 8018 to reserve a place and collect your ticket from the bookshop Tuesday to Saturday 8am to 7pm.

Bea's book will be available to buy on that day for a special discounted price.

Living With Scoliosis My Journey To Recovery And Inspiration To Help Others Article by Charlotte

My name is Charlotte and I was first diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 12.

I noticed my hips and shoulders were uneven, my clothes didn't fit properly and I couldn't keep my posture straight. My mum took me to my local GP where I was then referred to a specialist who diagnosed me with scoliosis.

My curve measured at 30 degrees so it was decided to just monitor however in the space of 2 years my curve became so severe it was decided I needed major spinal fusion surgery.

I was 14 when I had the surgery and by then it was 70 degrees and was beginning to cause me a lot of other issues, walking long distances was very painful and I was diagnosed with a treatable heart condition during a pre op test.

In October 2007, I had the surgery which took 9.5 hours to do. It wasn't plain sailing, the use of my right leg was compromised and doctors were unsure if I would get the feeling back, but I did.

After the surgery, recovery was both physically and mentally exhausting. Having to relearn how to walk again was by far the hardest thing I've had to endure.

I can honestly say though, having a spinal fusion was the best thing I've ever done. I have a fantastic quality of life and live life to the full. Having the surgery has also shaped me into becoming the determined, resilient person I am today.

My vision is to support others going through scoliosis and this support group will enable me to do so. Having someone that understands what you go through was something I completely lacked, and I want to spread awareness so others do not feel the way I did, alone and isolated. By setting up a scoliosis support group, I hope to bring together individuals and together we can support one another.

Scoliosis - First Wednesday of the month.

6pm - 8pm. At Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation, Ulverscroft Grange, Whitwick Road, Ulverscroft, Leicestershire, LE67 9QB. All are welcome to attend this friendly new support group for people living with or affected by scoliosis. Please contact Charlotte Dodd on 01530 244914 or email hello@ shuttlewood-clarke.org

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Protecting Your Family’s Inheritance Article by Klara Hesling

Lighten The Allergen Load Article by Gary Trickett

Pollution, climate change and at this time of the year, pollen, can all place a burden on your respiratory system.

When faced with a heavy load of irritants, sinuses go into overdrive and a build-up of phlegm can turn into catarrh, which changes the pressure inside the head, causing all types of pain.

Reducing airborne chemicals can result in prompt and substantial health gains, not to mention huge benefits for the planet.

Potentially harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in air fresheners, perfumes, paints, cleaning products and liquid fuels, can lead to indoor air levels of many pollutants being up to 10 times higher than outdoor levels. Switching to low VOC alternatives or better still avoiding them altogether will help you to reduce the personal load you create.

Keep your body as toxinfree as possible and be aware of the role histamine plays in your body’s response to allergy.

With hayfever for example, it identifies pollen as harmful and produces an antibody called IgE, which triggers the production of histamine.

Histamine is an inflammatory chemical that causes swelling, mucus formation and itching and burning in localised areas such as the throat, nose and eyes.

Several plants are noted for their supportive action of the respiratory system. Luffa operculata can help with sneezing, blocked and runny noses. It is usually teamed with Galphimia glauca, which can be useful for reducing eye irritation triggered by hayfever and allergic rhinitis.

Pollinosan Hayfever Tablets from A.Vogel contain both and are non-drowsy so will not affect your ability to drive or use machinery. They can be taken ‘on the spot’, or started two weeks prior to known symptom outbreak, if your symptoms regularly appear at the same time each year. A nasal spray is also available for immediate relief.

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

Parish Councils Commit Support To Armed Forces Community Article by Charnwood Borough Council

Eight parish and town councils have shown their commitment to supporting military personnel community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.

Charnwood Borough Council hosted the event where parish councils from across the borough came together to pledge their support for current serving personnel, veterans, reservists and their families.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation to ensure that those who serve or who have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly and do not face disadvantage. Groups, organisations, charities, local authorities and businesses are encouraged to sign up to it.

Cllr Hilary Fryer, the Council’s armed forces champion, said: “I am delighted many parish and town councils have come together to sign the covenant and are committed to helping the Armed Forces community.

“It’s important we continue to encourage organisations in Charnwood to sign the covenant and ensure resources are in place to support the Armed Forces and their families in our communities across the borough.”

The parish and town councils in Charnwood are the first ones to sign the Covenant in Leicestershire.

Cllr Deborah Taylor, lead member for communities said: “We acknowledge the sacrifices our Armed Forces men and women, and their families make, and it was great to see the parish and town councils signing the Covenant."

Shepshed Town and Barrow Parish Councils were among the eight organisations to sign and pledge their support. Cllr Joan Tassell from Shepshed Town Council said: “We are proud to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and are committed to helping those with a military background.

It’s fantastic so many organisations have come along today to pledge their support. We look forward to helping the Armed Forces personnel, both past and present within our local community.”

The full list of parish and town councils that signed the covenant are: • Anstey • Barrow upon Soar • Mountsorrel • Newtown Linford • Queniborough • Shepshed • Cropston and Thurcaston • Woodhouse Eaves The Council signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2013 and employs an Armed Forces community covenant development officer, in partnership with Melton and Rushcliffe borough councils to help develop and support the Armed Forces community and ensure that military personal do not face any disadvantage as a result of their service.

Rushcliffe and Charnwood borough councils recently received a gold award from The Armed Forces Covenant Employer Scheme (ERS). The Gold Award is the highest badge of honour for organisations which have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and demonstrated outstanding support for those who serve and have served.

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Most people hope that their estate will pass on to their children and grandchildren eventually. But this will not happen for many, unless careful arrangements have been made to protect their assets from being taken towards the end of their life to pay for care home fees.

The solution to help protect your estate is a Will incorporating a Property Protection Trust (PPT).

A testamentary PPT can only be executed whilst both partners remain alive. Upon death of the first partner, their Will specifies that their share of the property is placed into trust and names the ultimate beneficiary of this share, normally the children and grandchildren of the deceased.

The surviving partner, under the terms of the Trust, has the unequivocal right to remain living in the property for the rest of their life. On the death of the second partner the Trust comes to an end and the property passes to the beneficiaries. As the surviving partner does not own the deceased's share of the property it is fully protected for the beneficiaries, so if the surviving partner requires care, or even remarries, this share of the children's inheritance is protected. This last point can be of particular interest to couples who have come together and have children from different partners.

A PPT can help each person in a relationship ensure that their children inherit their share of the property, while giving their surviving partner the ability to live in the property for the rest of their life. If the surviving partner wants to move to another property they can still sell the property and the proceeds be used to purchase a new property; the terms of the Trust remain over the new property.

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Our prices include home visits and Inheritance Tax advice.

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

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

• Watches • Silver & silver plate • All interesting antiques, collectables & furniture.

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Shepshed History Society

Charnwood Probus Club

Despite the icy cold weather the Shepshed History Society was very well attended on Feb 11th in order to enjoy listening to Mr Robert Mee who gave an entertaining talk on Village Lockups.

Primarily evolving in the latter part of the 1700's and early 1800's these stone built often round houses were made to imprison miscreants overnight as they journeyed to the next town where they would appear in court for the various crimes they had committed. These houses also were convenient places to secure the local drunks until they had sobered up. Many of the surviving lockups today have a preservation order on them so they still survive to give an air of times gone past as they continue to adorn the typical English village.

Stocks as well can still be seen today although many penfolds have long since disappeared, these were pens erected to capture straying cattle and they were often beside these village lockups.

In the days before police stations were built, the village constable would have had a purpose built room in his cottage in which he could hold criminals and one such constable had two cell rooms which were heated by a coke heating system for which the constable would have had a lucrative allowance. However, when the cells were empty the constables wife would take the opportunity of drying her washing in them.

So many entertaining tales were told by Robert as well as very interesting slides shown that night, like the village publicans wife who had a secret key for the village round house and for a small bribe from the miscreants family, she would set the prisoner free.

So all in all then it was a very entertaining talk and everyone enjoyed learning about our rural past. The speaker for March 10th will be Mr Kevin Reynolds whose subject will be Dispelling the Myths and Legends pertaining to Bats. Newcomers are always welcome at Glenmore Community Centre, 7.30pm to 9.00pm.

Charnwood Probus Club The club held its February meeting at our normal venue, Longcliffe Golf Club, on Thursday 20th February.

After the normal pre-lunch conversations our taste buds were well satisfied with a very fine pate and garnishes for a starter. This was followed by a most tender braised steak and lots of vegetables just to be finished off by a club favourite Bread and Butter pudding served with custard.

At this meeting we had a speaker, one of the club members, Ian HamiltonSmith. The subject of Ian’s talk was a basic look at genealogy where he showed that the information derived from birth and marriage certificates is ample to start one off on what can become an extensive tree. Ian likes to do his talks in a light hearted way and used his grandad as the basis of the tree demonstration. He also included a few of facts about his family some sad, some intriguing and some just pure history.

The title of Ian’s talk was Family Tree, Skeletons and Pitfalls and he certainly showed the skeletons that crept out and the pitfalls that one can fall into.

The talk was well received and generated a number of questions afterwards and hopefully at least one member will go home and start to build a Family Tree.

If any retired or semiretired gentleman would like to come along and see what we get up to with no commitment then just complete the “contact form” on www. charnwoodprobus.co.uk where they will find lots of information on our very friendly club. We will need to know that you are coming so that we can include you in the lunch order. Can’t have a guest going hungry.

Article by Marjorie Schulz

Article by Ian Hamilton-Smith

Natural Beautii Celebrates Its 5th Year In Business And Raises £600

By Holding A Charity Open Day In Aid of Miscarriage Association Article by Danielle Bates

On Saturday 25th January 2020 we celebrated our 5th year in business and to mark the occasion we had an open/charity day in the salon. We chose to raise money for the Miscarriage Association through selling raffle tickets with prizes supplied by other local businesses, completing mini treatments on the day, a nearly and new clothes sale, partnering with the likes of Finkins, Field Street Fitness and Miracle in Progress to name a few. We were overwhelmed with the support we received from the local community and managed to raise £600 for the charity which we are really proud of as it's very close to our hearts. Thank you to everyone!

Spotlight on Iveshead

March 2020

We’re extremely lucky in Shepshed to have a school allowing students to study up to A levels locally to where they live. In addition, results from Summer 2019 showed us as the 7th best state school in Leicestershire with a VA of 0.05 (students get an average 0.05 grade better than nationally). Many students have had offers to some of the best universities in the A group of Post 16 students visited country including Oxford and Cambridge. London to see Woman in Black at the Fortune Theatre. The theatre students hadn't expected the venue to be so Throughout my education at small, but the impact was huge. The Iveshead I have benefitted from a group went backstage at the National high standard of teaching that has Theatre where they met industry enabled me to excel and fulfill pr potential that I never knew I had. professionals - props and make-up Year 13 student being a highlight. Lastly their time at Iveshead recently appointed Mr James the British Board of Film Classification to lead Post 16. He specialises in English hugely helped the media students with Language and Media and has taught their revision learning first-hand how at the campus for 10 years. He’s media is regulated. passionate about improving academic The trip was well organised and the performance and aspirations. It’s a job students had a fantastic time, gaining he's wanted for a long time as he invaluable experience, which will belie that A Levels open many doors, benefit them both now and in the believes giving students higher entry into jobs, future. Iveshead are lucky to have apprenticeships and universities. He is staff willing to give up their time to genuinely interested in their welfare make trips like this possible. and aims for students to be better prepared for the real world, flourishing For many of the students, visiting and looking back on their time at London itself proved to be a real Iveshead fondly. This has led to an cultural experience, in the fast-paced increase in cultural opportunities such as and busy city, gaining life skills such as trips to theatres, a German market and navigating the Tube for the first time ...initially in the wrong direction! a recent London residential.

“

”

Headteacher - Matthew Parrott 01509 602156 @ivesheadschool

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

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Loughborough Carillon Tower & War Memorial Museum Appeal Article by Mel Gould

Email: enquiries@hatherncommunitylibrary.org

In 2018 Charnwood Borough Council, along with the War Memorials Trust, carried out a major renovation project on the fabric of the town’s iconic and unique Carillon Tower & War Memorial.

The Carillon War Memorial Museum Trust, a volunteer organisation, saw this as an opportunity to examine the future role of the museum housed inside the carillon tower. It is planned not only to improve the display capabilities but also to improve the interpretation of collection, tell the story more effectively and make use of interactive touch screen displays and graphics so that visitors who are unable to climb the 138 steps within the tower will be able to access the museum collection, the bells and admire the views from the balcony.

It is our intention in the future to market the museum, the war memorial, the tower, the bells and the Queens Park, within which it stands, as a single visitor attraction.

To achieve our ambition, we applied to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) for a grant towards the cost. Our initial application, however, was not successful but we are in discussion with the NLHF as to what we need to do to meet their criteria and gain the funding we need.

The biggest expense is replacing the display cabinets in the two upper floors. Meanwhile, in order that we can re-open at Easter 2020 we have decided to improve the ground floor whilst we talk with NLHF. We need the support of local individuals and businesses. Donations will not only help us achieve our ambitious plans but demonstrate to the NLHF that we have the support of people and organizations in the borough. We are keen to involve local businesses and organisations and welcome support of all kinds. Cash contributions of any amount would be most welcome but so would practical help.

Attached is a ‘Shopping List’ of what we require to make ready and improve the ground floor. If you need any more information or would like to visit the tower to discuss our plans, then please contact us. All named donors will be acknowledged on a display board on the ground floor which will remain in place until 2023, the centenary of the opening of the Carillon.

1x Flexible £650.00 Mannequin

1x Rubber Mat

£60.00

Hathern Community Library

We have a full-size model horse in the Leicestershire Yeomanry Room and want to mount it with a figure in period uniform.

To protect the carpet at the ground floor door. The original one disappeared during the renovation.

Facebook and Twitter @Hathernlibrary 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

Hathern Parish Council Next Meeting Monday 30th Mach 2020 Village Hall in Dovecote Street at 7.30pm Clerk: Maureen Spencer Tel: 01509 842813

6x Story Boards

£80.00 each

2x Carpets

£750.00 each

New carpets for the 1st and 2nd floor.

2x Room Paintings

£700.00 each

Painting the 1st & 2nd floor rooms (the ceilings are 20 feet high)

Paint

£160.00

A special paint for heritage buildings and required by CBC. Details upon request

1x Retail Display

£300.00

A retail shelving unit to display items for sale (donations and retail sales are our life blood)

1x Cash till

£120.00

A cash till to replace the large and ancient till we are using at the moment.

Fireproof Material

£60.00

Fireproof material to line five cabinets on ground floor. Already donated by H O Bowley Ltd, Textile Manufacturer.

Loughborough.

jboyes@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk

Safety glass fronts for five cabinets on ground floor.

Councillor: Martin Clayton

5x Glass panels

£53.00 each

Interchangeable story boards, text and illustrations to tell the story of the park, the carillon and objects in our collection.

www.hatherncommunitylibrary.org

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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 Councillor: Ben Murdoch bmurdoch@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk mclayton@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk

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

Hathern Brownies Helen Pritchard 07425 168468 helen.gt@hotmail.com

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

Hathern Dance Club Judith Wardell 01509 842357

hello@4thshepshedscoutgroup.co.uk

Art Group Dave 01509 842562 daveandfay.want@gmail.com Belton Gardening Club Peter Crichton 01530 224869 Belton & Hathern Scouts Kenny Henry 01509 507997 kennyjhenry@msn.com Bingo Jan 07944 609415 Cara Tatterton Pilates Mixed Group Pilates Cara Tatterton 07921 040707 cara@caratattertonpilates.co.uk www.caratattertonpilates.co.uk Classes held at Shepshed Church Hall, Hathern Village Hall, Osgathorpe Harley Hall and Friendship Centre Long Whatton

Hathern Football Club Martin Snaith 07824 356629 snaithy@me.com Hathern Garden Club Phil Clark 01509 842345 Hathern History Society Terry Cox 01509 843107 www.hathernhistory.co.uk

Hathern Band Lesley Bentley 01509 672029 www.hathernband.co.uk Hathern Bellringers Tony Croft 01509 842634 Hathern Bridge Club Yvonne Frost 01509 261445

Rotary Club Of Shepshed Charnwood rotarysc@hotmail.co.uk Serenade Shepshed Women’s Community Choir Keleigh Atkin 07775558219

Shepshed Ramblers Margaret 01509 600510 Bernie 01509 828328

Shepshed & District Camera Club Alan Harris 07733314605

Shepshed Running Club info@shepshedrc.org.uk

Hathern Old Cricket Club Neil Swift 07963 139942

www.shepshedcameraclub.co.uk

Shepshed Special Community Bus Alison Sharp 01509 650531 sscb9a@gmail.com

Hathern Open Gardens John Worsfold 01509 842585 Hathern Sunday Football Club Dave Pears 07904 950781 Hathern Village Association www.hathernonline.co.uk

Hathern Women’s Institute Gail Wooliscroft 01509 842874

Glenmore Art Group Kevin Gibbons kgibbons166@aol.com

Shepshed Punchin’ Pandas Children’s Martial Arts School Julie Hutton 07984 424811 www.emkmartialarts.co.uk

Hathern Horticultural Society Jacqueline Sutton 01509 842713

Charnwood Tatters Craft Group Geraldine 01509 551667 Meet on 3rd Saturday of each month at Shepshed Town Council Offices, 47a Charnwood Road, Shepshed, LE12 9QE. Free parking.

1.30pm - 4.30pm.

Future Generation Sports Luke Dixon 07738090212 uturegsports@gmail.com

Rotary Club Of Shepshed Robert Hall 01509 842643 robert.hall72@btinternet.com

serenadeshepshed@outlook.com

Hathern Wildlife Club Sean Hale 01509 843089

Fox Badminton Julian Kuczala - 07941323944 julian.kuczala@sky.com

Shepshed Netball Amateur Players Lindsey Aldridge 07899887918 www.snapnetball.com

Shepshed Rugby Club Tom Pitt 07522429786 shepshedrugby@gmail.com

Charnwood Meditation Group Chris North 01509 506585

Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan Society Richard Perkins 01509 821962 christchurchgands.shepshed@ hotmail.com www.whatnever.co.uk

Pastures New Playgroup 07975 767723 pastplaygroup@live.com www.pasturesnewplaygroup.co.uk

Hathern Youth Club Ian Fuller 07837 066190

chairman@shepshedcameraclub.co.uk

Shepshed & District Twinning Association www.shepshedtwinning.co.uk Shepshed Badminton Club Alan 01509 733391 a.zenthon@sky.com Shepshed Cancer Support Group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 1.30pm at Charnwood Road Community Centre.

Shepshed Cricket Club Katie Oliver 07890941420 katie.oliver@live.com

Line Dancing Ann Seymour 07914358050

Shepshed Cycling Club George Smith secretary.scc@yahoo.com Shepshed Cycling Club on Facebook

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

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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 Stompers Line Dancers Linda 07907711282 Shepshed Swimming Club John Fox and Dominic Jones

headcoach@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 Grahame Woodward 01530 564492 grayjo@gj83584.plus.com Walking For Health Shepshed mathew.richardson@charnwood. gov.uk or meet walk leaders before 10.30am start of Monday walks (Not Bank holidays) 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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Ladies - An Evening For You Article by Anne Wightman

Hallcroft Public Toilets Vandalised Article by Brenda Snape

Vandalism carried out in the public toilets in the Hallcroft, due to health and safety, the men’s toilets have had to be closed.

Organ Donation Changes This Spring Article by NHS

The law around organ donation is changing in England.

This means that from spring 2020, all adults in England will be considered an organ donor when they die unless they had recorded a decision not to donate or are in one of the excluded groups.

This is commonly referred to as an ‘opt out’ system.

Your family would always be involved before donation takes place, so it is really important that you choose whether you want to be a donor and discuss what you want to happen with your family, so your decision is clear and they can have peace of mind knowing that your decision is being honoured.

For more information, visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk

PHOTO: Lion President Bill Holland presents Major Marta Ager with the cheque.

Salvation Army Meet Shepshed Lions Article by Ann Bodycote

Shepshed Lions Club have made a donation of £700 to the Salvation Army in Loughborough. In handing over the cheque, Lion President Bill Holland said, "The Salvation Army are very close to the hearts of our members, and we normally make a donation during the Winter period to help them with their work. We wish them every success for 2020 and beyond."

Major Mata Ager from the Salvation Army Church and Community Centre in Burleigh Road, Loughborough, said, "I was just wondering where I was going to get some money to help out with gas and electricity bills for people this month, when Shepshed Lions walked in and gave us a cheque for £700. We are very grateful for this, and at a time when we are having more demands placed on our support services and food bank, the Lions can be assured that their donation will be very well spent."

Get Involved With This Year’s Great British Spring Clean Article by Charnwood Borough Council

Communities in Charnwood are being encouraged to help give the borough a spring clean as part of a national tidy-up campaign.

The Great British Spring Clean is organised by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy and will be held across the country between March 20 and April 13, 2020.

Charnwood Borough Council is encouraging residents and community groups to get involved and organise events in their local areas over the three-week campaign. The Council can help by providing free litter-picking equipment and organising the collection of rubbish and recycling.

Groups could arrange litter picks or undertake any other tasks which will keep the borough looking tidy. The Council is also arranging its own litter picks in key areas.

Councillor Leigh Harper-Davies, lead member of contracts said: “I would like to encourage organisations, clubs, schools, community groups, parish councils and residents in Charnwood to take part in this year’s Great British Spring Clean. It’s a great opportunity to come together and take pride in our local area by keeping the borough tidy and free of litter. We would like to offer our support to those getting involved in the campaign so I would urge people to get in touch if you need our help.”

The Council has a limited amount of equipment available and people are being urged to get in touch as soon as possible. Equipment will be issued on a first come first served basis.

The Council is being supported by partners Idverde which manages the Council’s parks and green spaces, and Serco, which runs the refuse, recycling and street cleansing service.

In 2019 more than half a million #LitterHeroes collected more than 900,000 bags of rubbish across the UK. Individuals and groups can register their events at www. greatbritishspringclean.org.uk If you think the Council could support your event by supplying some litter picking equipment, please email cleaner.greener@charnwood.gov.uk

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All ladies love a fashion show and Tuesday 31st March is the date when all are invited to a Fashion Show in St Botolph’s Hall, Shepshed.

The models will show garments from many leading brands, sizes 6 to 30. Where else could one see such a wide size range? Prices will have up to 75% off the retails prices, and all the clothing will be available to purchase on the night, including some Italian and French designer wear.

The cost of the evening is £6.00 and includes a glass of wine and nibbles. All proceeds are for Church Funds. St Botolphs is in need of extra funding as the roof needs considerable work doing on it, and the lighting needs replacing.

Please support this event.

Art Workshops Article by Val Singh

I am organising two one day workshops on 21st and 28th March at The Old School House at Rosebery Medical Centre, Rosebery Street, Loughborough.

The importance of colour mixing with a limited palette, establishing good tone, and how to successfully layer colours with acrylics will be highlighted. A step by step approach will be taken and an image provided to work from. Each workshop is from 10-4pm and costs £45 with refreshments provided throughout the day. All abilities welcome. For further information please contact Val Singh at singhval@yahoo. co.uk (BA Hons Illustration and art tutuor in Shepshed and Loughborough)

Shepshed Ramblers

Article by Margaret Pate On 15th March 2020, Shepshed Ramblers are walking a circular route of approximately 6 miles from Groby Pool to Ratby Woods. Walkers to meet in Shepshed Market Place to decide car share for a 09.30 departure and should return between 2.00 and 3.00 pm. Walkers should carry a coffee and lunch break.

Anyone interested please ring either Margaret on 01509 600510 or Bernie on 01509 828328. A warm welcome is guaranteed.

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It’s a year since our charity shop in Shepshed opened and we’re having a birthday party - come along and find out more about Vista!

Date: Friday 3rd April 2020 Time: 10:00 am - 1:30 pm Where: 14 Field Street, Shepshed, LE12 9AL

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Shepshed Dolphin Swimming Group Receives Grant Article by Nicola Crowe

Shepshed Dolphin Swimming Group are a swimming group with a difference – our members consist of individuals with a disability or longterm health condition as well as those recovering from injury or illness and of course their friends, carers and family are welcome too.

We offer a morning broken down into sessions for lane swimming, free time in the pool and Aqua fit sessions.

We are currently celebrating success in grant funding. Our group has been part funded by the Wesleyan Foundation this year which we are really pleased about. It means with the help from the Leicester and Rutland Community Foundation we can continue to run the sessions for our members.

We have also just been successful in receiving a grant from The Henry Smith Charity to be able to continue providing the Aqua Fit sessions for the next two years – included in your swim fee of £2.50 per adult or £1 for under 18’s.

“Having the extra funding for the Aqua class for the next two years is incredible and we are so pleased that it can continue without having to charge swimmers extra for the class. It is such a popular class and the pool is quiet when it is not running.”

We offer lane swimming, Aqua fit and free time every Saturday morning at Iveshead Community Swimming Pool in Shepshed. We have swim aids, lots of floats and pool toys.

We run from 10.30am – 12.30pm - Aqua Fit is on at 11.15am.

Sessions are £2.50 for adults and £1 for under 18’s.

There are no membership fees to pay, just the swim fee for each session. The sessions are run by volunteers and qualified life guards. We are a charity and are funded by different sources and grants.

As with all charities our continued success relies on our members swimming with us but also on donations and grants so we can pay for lifeguards, specialist teachers or equipment and overall running costs. We have a fundraising page set up and are also part of the new Charnwood Lottery. https://wonderful.org/charity/shepsheddolphinsswimminggroup If you would like any further information on the group, becoming a volunteer or would like to be a sponsor please contact admin@ shepsheddolphins.org.uk

Rolls-Royce Retired Employees Association Article by Graham Burton

April events on the 7th the walk & talk group will do a walk at Cromford. Meeting 10:00am at Cromford Meadows car park & taking lunch at the Boat Inn. The 14th members meet at R-R Leisure Moor Lane Derby at 1:00pm also the AGM will take place there. Wednesday the 22nd members are going on a coach trip to Port Sunlight leaving R-R Leisure at 8:30am.

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Shepshed & District Camera Club Article by Brian Walbey

Shepshed and District Camera Club began 2020 with an enthralling presentation from Rob Cuss who has engaged in underwater photography as a hobby while not travelling the world on behalf of British Geological Survey.

His presentation was mainly of freshwater sites of the British Isles. The water can be clear enough to see some beautifully coloured creatures such as anemones. He demonstrated that, as a nature photographer, it takes a good knowledge of the habits of wildlife as much as the ability to take photos. His photos of freshwater pike were outstanding.

Two weeks later the Club was entertained by Verity Milligan, a professional, freelance and award-winning photographer and educator working out of the city of Birmingham.

Having spent her early days in photography concentrating on rural landscape images Verity has moved towards photographing urban landscapes instead and gave a very interesting talk, which was extremely well illustrated, on how to approach taking landscape style pictures in urban surroundings, in her case mainly Birmingham.

The first competition league event took place during January and the members were pleased to welcome back Bob Rowe, ARPS, as the judge for the evening. One of the newer club members, Stephen Russell, won the class for Prints on an Open theme with his photograph entitled ‘Bee Eater In Flight’ followed by Garry Rennocks in second place, and Phil Tapp in third place. The Themed class was for projected images on a subject of Creative which was won by Alan Harris with ‘Underground Movement’ followed by Garry Rennocks in second place and Brian Walbey in third place.

The Club’s meetings continue through until early June during this current season and new members are always welcome, further details can be obtained on 07733 314605 or the Club website at www. shepshedcameraclub.co.uk or just turn up at Shepshed Council offices at 7.30 pm on Tuesday evenings.

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St Botolph’s Church, Shepshed Article by Jill

Article by Jill

8th March 10.00 am Holy Communion 10.00am Children’s Church 15th March 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Children’s Church 22nd March Mothering Sunday 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Pet’s Service with Holy Communion 29th March 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Children’s Church Every Wednesday morning Holy Communion at 10.00 am at St Botolph’s Church

St James Church, Oaks In Charnwood Article by Jill

8th March 8.30 am Holy Communion 15th March 8.30 am Holy Communion 11.15 pm Family Service 22nd March Mothering Sunday 8.30 am Holy Communion 29th March 8.30 am Holy Communion

Shepshed Church Of Christ

Article by Stephen Woodcock Meeting at Shepshed Town Council and Community Centre, Charnwood Road, Shepshed, LE12 9QE. A Warm Welcome Awaits You. Sunday Worship Service: 11.00 am Bible Study: 12.00 am Children’s Class: 12.00am Thursday Bible Study:

St. Botolph’s Church, Shepshed & St James’ Church, Oaks In Charnwood

7.00 pm

For more information contact Stephen. Telephone: 07477424905 Email: info@ shepshedchurchofchrist.co.uk Facebook: Shepshed Church of Christ

St Botolph’s Tuesday Group Flower Arranging with Margaret Dumbleton Tues 17th March, 8.00pm, St Botolph’s Church Hall St Patrick’s Day Celebrations.

St. Botolph’s Mother’s Union 11th March, 11.15am, St. Botolph’s Church Lent Meditation with Rev’d Eric Whiteley Saturday Morning Prayer Group A small but loyal group meet every week in the Transept Chapel at 8.30 until 9.30 am. Everyone is always welcome.

Oaks Daffodil Tea Sat 14th March, 2 pm until 4 pm, Oaks Storer Hall Afternoon Tea will consist of Sandwiches, Cake with Tea or Coffee. No charge but Donations will be welcomed.

St. Botolph’s Fundraising Fashion Show Tues 31st March, 6 pm until 10.30 pm, St. Botolph’s Church Models required. If you can help please contact Isobel Goodliffe. Tickets £6 to include wine and nibbles. All high street brands (Next, M & S, Evans, Monsoon, White Stuff).

St. Botolph’s Patronal Festival Weekend 20th & 21st June To celebrate this weekend we are hoping to arrange a variety of events and we are pleased to announce that Bishop Guli will be presiding at our 10 am service on Sunday 21st June. Help is needed to make arrangements for this weekend so if you would like to be part of the planning group please speak to Sarah or John.

Flower arrangers needed for St Botolph’s Church St. Botolph's urgently need more Flower Arrangers for Church Flowers.

A small group of arrangers meet on the first Saturday of the month (not in Lent or Advent). All are welcome to come along and join in.

For further information, please contact Glenys Stevenson 01509 502627.

Charnwood Road Baptist Church Article by Maureen Walbey

Sunday 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th March 10.45 am Morning Worship 6 pm Evening Worship Friday 13th, 20th & 27th March Lent Film Nights at 6 pm with refreshments. Everyone Welcome Wednesday 18th March Lent Lunch 12 noon to 2 pm Proceeds to the Leprosy Mission. Everyone Welcome

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 Thursdays 7.30 pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting at Kirkhill Term Time Only 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.

Lent Lunch Charnwood Road Baptist Church will be holding a Lent Lunch on Wednesday 18th March from 12 noon to 2 pm. There will be soup, bread/roll followed by a dessert or cake and tea and coffee.

Cost £3.50. All proceeds will go towards the work of the Leprosy Mission. Everyone welcome.

Christchurch Methodist Article by Margaret Cook

Supreme Spuds returns to Christchurch Methodist Shepshed on Saturday March 14th 11.00am-14.00pm.We will be serving Jacket Potatoes with a variety of fillings and a side salad, followed by a choice of dessert and a drink. The price remains the same as ever at £5, £2.50 for children.

There will be a Raffle, an Easter Gifts and Stationery Stall and handknitted baby clothes. Please come and enjoy a sociable lunch.

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Field Street Surgery Patient Participation Group Article by Bob Lilley

Field Street Surgery, Field Street, Shepshed is looking to increase the membership of the Patient Participation Group (PPG).

The PPG is made up of volunteers and our Practice Manager to help strengthen the relationship between the practice and you, are patients.

Your PPG contributes ideas, feedback and suggestions to improve patient experience.

We would stress it is not the role of the PPG to deal with complaints against staff as this is covered by the NHS Complaints procedures. If you are interested in finding out more information or joining the PPG please contact our reception staff.

Would you like to have a meaningful input into improving the services you receive at your surgery? By joining the PPG you will have a direct voice to influence decisions made by the surgery about patient services, care, and to share information.

The PPG is open to all patients of Field Street Surgery. The group meets bimonthly, so if you are willing to join the PPG, you would be made very welcome.

Friends Of The Charnwood Forest Article by Dr Duncan McNeil

On Monday February 17th, Peter Liddle, the former county archaeologist, gave a talk to the Friends of the Charnwood Forest about Bradgate Park, and in particular Bradgate House. Using old documents and numerous photographic illustrations he was able to reconstruct at least some of the history of that estate, starting with mesolithic occupants some 14,000 to 12,000 years ago, up to the present day. His main subject, however, was centred around the house itself in which digs have taken place over the last 5 years.

The first site was what was probably an old lodge or keeper’s house.

Here he expressed surprise at how near the surface the actual archaeology lay. As much of his work previously had been concentrated on sites in the city, where the interesting levels could be several feet below the presentday surface, it is not surprising that he was a little astonished.

The next year’s dig was in the courtyard of the old house, where foundations were found of an older building. As the oldest document had termed the ‘house’ as a ‘lodge’, it could be that the present ruin was of a later date. Did Lady Jane Grey live in that ‘lodge’ or was the brick construction we know her home? Evidence is at present a little ambiguous. The ‘new’ house was abandoned in the mid nineteenth century, and the gable wall of the Great Hall collapsed in a gale in 1895.

In the 1930s, when the park passed into public ownership, the council had the ruin ‘improved’, including the ruin of a tower which had not been there before.

The digging then moved to the stables, where various interesting finds on its layout were made, including a dump of old horse leg bones – these may be the left-overs from dogs’ dinners. The building itself was still in use after the house was left to decay; its materials may have been taken finally to be used in other building works.

They went back to the house for the final year of the dig. Here there were restrictions as to how far down they could dig, for they were not able to move any floors they came across because the building is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. In one place they did find a pit which was full of old pottery sherds. In another they followed the foundations of an older building up to a modern wall. They also found numerous drains, one of which contained a plastic glove, and gave a clue to the work of the restorers in the 1920s.

One thing that was evident in the old documents which may have deserved a mention – in the first document it was titled Brodgate park; in the second Broadgate park, and as we call it, Bradgate park. It does now look, however, both from the archaeology and from recently discovered documents, as if Lady Jane probably inhabited the stone house found in the excavations and that brick house mostly predates her short life.

The next meeting of the Friends will be on 16th March at 7.30, when Richard Bailey will give a talk entitled ‘Not just field on a farm; diversification in Charnwood Forest’., showing how he has supplemented the income from an arable farm by organising a varied series of events This will follow the short A.G.M.

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Field Street Surgery Appointments Article by Bob Lilley

All of the staff of Field Street Surgery in Shepshed are striving to provide the best service to their patients, and try to provide appointments as soon as we can but it is not always possible. We know how frustrating it can be when you are feeling unwell.

However, every week without exception, a number of patients make an appointment but fail to attend. This can be for a number of reasons and we understand that, but if you no longer need the appointment, please let the surgery know so they can allocate your appointment to someone else.

It may be that your illness may not necessarily be appropriate to see the Doctor.

You could consider visiting your local pharmacy that will be very willing and capable to advise you how to deal with your illness or health concerns. If they cannot help you then you may consider making an appointment with the Doctor. It is often quicker, and more convenient to visit your local pharmacy instead of visiting the surgery. We would like to stress that we are trying to reduce waiting times for patients with greatest need. Please work with the surgery to improve your experience.

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Prize Every Time At Steps Tombola Article by Janet Russell

Each year the Shepshed charity, Steps, holds a massive tombola at its main fundraising event called A Question Of Brains.

Last year, 700 prizes were donated by both individuals and businesses, helping Steps to raise almost £3,000!

As a self-funding charity that provides a service for children with motor disorders such as cerebral palsy and Down’s syndrome, this was a significant amount of money that went towards the £5,000 that is needed every week to pay for the centre’s running costs.

The manager of the centre, Janet Russell, said, “We are really grateful for every single donation, whether it is a cheque, a small amount of cash or unwanted Christmas presents. Every penny that we are given goes towards helping children with motor disorders, in addition to supporting their families.”

One family, whose grandchild is a Steps regular, recently sent a cheque for £100 and a letter that said, "Thank you so much for all that you do to help our grandson and all the others babies and children at Steps. The facilities you have are fantastic and the care and dedication of all the staff is clear to see. It has been great for us to see how supportive Steps has been to our grandson and to his mum."

Janet added that if you have anything that you would like to donate to Steps for the tombola and are unable to deliver it yourself, please contact the centre on 01509 506878 as a local collection may be possible.

Hathern Village Hall What's On Tuesdays - Weekly 10.30am - 11.30am 11.30am - 12.30pms 2.00pm - 3.00pm 6.00pm - 7.15pm 7.30pm - 8.30pm 8.30pm - 10.00pm

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Thursdays - Weekly 10.00am - 11.00am 1.15pm - 2.45pm 6.30pm - 7.15pm 7.45pm - 9.00am

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Fridays - Weekly 9.15am - 10.15am 10.30am - 11.30am 6.15pm - 7.30pm 7.30pm - 9.00pm

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Saturdays - Weekly 8.45am - 9.45am 10.00am - 11.00am 11.30am - 1.30pm 11.30am - 1.30pm

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Mondays - Monthly 2nd 7.30pm - 9.30pm 3rd 7.30pm - 9.30pm Various 7.30pm - 9.30pm

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Local MP Gets Preview Of New £20 Note Celebrating JMW Turner Article by Simon Whelband

Local MP Jane Hunt joined the Bank of England’s Chief Cashier, Sarah John, in Parliament on earlier this month to find out more about the new £20 note - the Bank’s most secure note yet.

Bank of England staff were on hand to talk through the new security features incorporated in the note which make it very difficult to counterfeit. On the front, the see-through window contains a two-colour foil in gold and blue, celebrating Margate where Turner drew inspiration for over 100 of his paintings.

It is the first Bank of England note to contain two see-through windows, with a small one in the bottom corner inspired by Tintern Abbey. The note has various foil patches and a hologram which changes from the word “Twenty” to “Pounds” when the note is tilted.

Jane said: “I was delighted to be among the first to see the new £20 note and learn more about its security features. I would recommend that businesses in our area and anyone who regularly handles cash takes a look at the Bank of England’s website to find out how to check banknotes so that they know what to expect when the new note enters circulation on 20th February.”

The note will be issued on 20th February 2020, so the public here in Loughborough will begin to see them in the following days and weeks as they are stocked in ATMs and tills.

Paper £20 notes, featuring Adam Smith, will remain legal tender and should be spent and accepted as usual. These notes will be gradually withdrawn as they are banked and notice will be given six months ahead of legal tender status being withdrawn.

More information about the new £20 note can be found at www. thenew20.co.uk

Increase To Local Element Of Council Tax Approved Article by Charnwood Borough Council

Charnwood Borough Council has agreed to raise its share of council tax by less than 9p a week for a Band D property.

The increase will see the annual charge for an average Band D property rise £4.43 (3.63 per cent) to £126.52 from April 1, 2020.

The Loughborough Special Rate, the equivalent of a parish precept in villages and paid by residents of the town, will increase for the first time since 2016 to £76.46 a year.

The increase was agreed at full Council on Monday February 24. At the meeting 33 councillors were in favour of the increase, 13 were against and there was one abstention.

Councillor Tom Barkley, lead member for finance and property services, said: “We put forward what we believed to be a reasonable increase to protect our frontline services as local government funding continues to decrease. The Loughborough Special Rate will increase for the first time in four years. Even with these increases, we will still have one of the lowest council tax rates in the country. This increase will not cover the reduction in government funding. That’s why we are planning to use some of our reserves and developing plans to increase our income from other sources such as through investment in commercial property. We remain committed to delivering excellent services to residents and we will continue to ensure they are running as efficiently as possible.”

Charnwood Borough Council currently has the 23rd lowest council tax charge out of 201 district councils in the country.

Council tax pays for a range of services provided Charnwood Borough Council, Leicestershire County Council, Leicestershire Police and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue and the parish council where you live (or Charnwood Borough Council for people in Loughborough).

The Charnwood element accounts for less than 10 per cent of the total bill.

For more information about the budget, see the February 24 report to Council http://bit.ly/399yVTk

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Cllr Keith Harris

T: 01509 557701 E: cllr.keith.harris@charnwood.gov.uk Unfortunately, I have to report that William Davis have still not completed the tree and shrub planting in the cemetery area near Daisy Bank. I wrote to Cara Wild, the borough officer in charge of adopting this site when all the work is done, and asked her to chase this up. She made a site visit and then sent a request to William Davis, reminding them of the outstanding work, adding that there were several beds which were overgrown with weeds and in need of maintenance. Many trees and shrubs are still to be planted. Cara is determined that the deadline of the end of the planting season will not be missed for the second year and we hope that WD will complete the work by the first weeks in March. When WD eventually do this, Cara can issue a first certificate. WD then remain responsible for the upkeep for a further year and Cara will then issue a final completion certificate if she is happy with the state of the area. The parish council can then adopt the site and I am sure that they will do a good job of maintaining it without prompting from Cara and myself.

I am adding an update to the above on February 25th (my deadline for submission). Cara had an appointment for a site visit with WD on Feb 14th but this was not possible except in an ark. So she has rearranged the visit for Feb 26th (a day after my deadline!) if the bird has arrived with the twig by then indicating that the waters have subsided. As it is very near the end of the planting season, I am sure she will convey the urgency of the situation to them and insist on it being done as soon as possible. To be fair, WD would not have been able to do much in the recent weather conditions. At least any new trees are unlikely to suffer a drought any time soon.

On the subject of weather, when the problems started, County Councillor Betty Newton emailed the Director of the Environment and Transport as well as the relevant officer dealing with flooding and the lead member Blake Pain on the perennial subject of flooding. She spoke in Full Council about the flooding you have had to endure several times this winter. In my view, the recurring flooding is due to continued lack of action by the County Council and they should get to the bottom of the problem and take proper measures to prevent it. They should at the very least provide sandbags to residents and not leave that to the Borough or the Parish Council.

No doubt this issue featured strongly in the parish meeting on Feb 24th.

Unfortunately, this meeting clashed with the borough council’s full council meeting, which Emma and I are obliged to attend, so we couldn’t attend the parish.

I have had a request for a dog bin for Daisy Bank. I have enquired about this. I think William Davis would still be responsible for this until the area is adopted. Normally, to get a new bin, a need has to be established due to the increased cost of emptying it. I will give an update on this next time when I have more information.

On the subject of Hathern’s large canine population, Julia Fisher organises auctions for lifecommitmentdogrescue on their Facebook page. She has some nice items to bid for, including jewellery and clothes. All bids are welcome.

The proposal for the new wood which I mentioned last time has moved on a stage. Adam Goodall, an officer and tree expert, visited the site with Rob Mitchell, the new Chief Executive. Rob was very enthusiastic about the plan, which has now moved on to the next stage. It now has to gain approval by an analysis of possible uses for the land. Normally, the main competitor use for the land would be to sell it for development. In this case, however, this is very unlikely, as the land is the only space between the village and the boundary of the Garendon development. In fact, the proposed wood would stretch all the way to the buffer of vegetation at the edge of that development. The land would be inappropriate for building, as it is an essential space to maintain the separation of Hathern from the urban sprawl of Loughborough. Therefore, Adam, Emma and I are confident that establishing a woodland there will come out as the preferred option.

Pastures New Playschool in Hathern has recently been struggling to run due to the short amount of hours they are able to open and this is leading to them potentially closing. Therefore, they are in the very early stages of trying to find a new venue and are currently in contact with Hathern Parish council with the idea of having a portacabin on Hathern park. If this bold new idea comes to fruition, they hope to make this centre not just for playschool but to also provide wrap around care for school age children and for other community groups to use it. It would be a great shame to lose this valuable asset to families and to fail to obtain an extra venue for events. I would urge all parents to use it and community groups to consider it when the village hall is booked, for example. The Playschool are going to find out if they would be eligible for funds from s.106 money from the Daisy Bank development. There is £40,000 available there for a scheme which meets the criteria. This money will revert to William Davis if it is not awarded. So, this would be an excellent

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opportunity to get another asset in the village. This money really should be invested in the local community and not give extra profits to William Davis by neglect or default. Please indicate your interest to the Playschool so that they can gauge potential demand.

Around the time that you receive this British Science Week will be starting with many activities in the library which will serve as a hub. The theme will be ‘Our Diverse Planet’. Posters and website posts will give you details - www.hathernonline.co.uk/events/we-love-science-the-library . There will be 4 major events. On March 7th from 10 – 12 there will be a science is fun event with experiments, including edible earthworms, fizzing balloons and marshmallow magic. Then there will be three talks – firstly on March 9th from 19.30 – 21.00 Laura Judson from the Woodland Trust (one of my wife’s charities when she was mayor) will talk about Trees and Woodland. On the 10th at the same time Dr Hubbard from Loughborough University will speak about the science behind science fiction. The last talk which I flagged up last time will be on the 12th at the same time and on the baffling subject of Nuclear Physics. Don’t be put off. It is fascinating as well as baffling and Rachel and Jon might even admit that they don’t get it either as it is counterintuitive and weird. But all experiments demonstrate that it works, honest!

Info about other local events are available on www.britishscienceweek.org Two weeks after the film night last month there will be a quiz at the parish church on Saturday 14th March at 19.00. Fish ’n’ chips will be served in the interval. I hope there will be a veggie option. No need to book but it costs £7 for the quiz and food.

It is very sad that there will not be a Wicked Hathern Festival in August this year. Despite the weather being perfectly acceptable on the Friday and improving considerably by 5 o’clock on the Saturday, people chose not to support the event last year in the huge numbers of previous years. After fundraising events, the HVA are solvent but only just and cannot take the risk of bad weather ruining the event this year. However, there will be a Little Wicked in the Community Centre on March 21st from 19.00 to midnight.

And it’s free!! The bands and acoustic artists will all be local and so will the beer, provided again by the wonderful staff of the Needle & Pin. You can’t miss a chance to see two parish councillors performing on stage.

Hathern Band are taking part in a civic contest on Saturday 7th March at 10.00 and doing a Proms Concert in Kegworth at St Andrew’s Church on Saturday 21st March.

Don’t forget about the on-running activities at the library like All Join In for toddlers, the Craft Group, the Art Group and the Reading Group.

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

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.

Gelders Hall Due to years of concerns in Gelders Hall regarding parking and Lorries having trouble navigating around the estate and recently parking at the entrance into Gelders Hall. I had meetings with businesses and County to try to come up with a solution. I understand that County have contacted business on the estate outlining their proposals. The proposals are for double yellow lines, both sides of the road as you enter, double yellow lines on one side of the road around the estate, allowing vehicles to park on one side only and making Gelders Hall oneway around the estate.

I understand that there has been a lot of comments about this on Facebook (I do not do Facebook). If you have any comments to make, can you make it via the contact details on the letter. I also understand that a lot of the comments refer to the problem leaving Gelders Hall following the alterations/white lines at the traffic lights at the top of Charnwood Road. Some of you might remember I got up a petition regarding these white lines, and unfortunately County officers could not see a problem and they remain as they are.

Police Patch walk I had a patch walk with Sgt Lee Taylor and PC Mistretta on Saturday morning 8th February, together with Cllr Jane Lennie (Shepshed Town Cllr). In Shepshed all political parties work together for the benefit of the Town. We focussed on areas of Shepshed in which residents have contacted me about parking issues.

Residents need to be mindful that parking on double yellows is not allowed, parking considerately so that other residents can pass to gain access to their homes, parking very near to junctions causing problems when trying to leave a road. Parking on pavements, if you do, you need to make sure there is enough room for a double buggy or electric motorised wheel chair to pass without having to go onto the road.

We also discussed areas of concerns regarding drug dealing within the Town.

The Beat Team has under gone a number of staff changes, below is a list of current and new officers:PC1969 – Matthew Orton PC4122 – Lisa Mansfield PCSO 6552 – Mohammed Musa PCSO 6046 – Kelly Davis PCSO 6014 – Rhiannon Gee PCSO 6542 – Viren Patel I was introduced to Mohammed Musa together with other Cllrs at a recent Town Council meeting at which Sgt Taylor discussed areas of concerns with us.

Vehicle Crime There has recently been a peek in vehicle crime over the past few months. Below are a few tips to keep your vehicle secure.

Car Security At Home Where possible ensure that your vehicle is parked on your driveway or in your garage if you have one. Alternatively, ensure your vehicle is parked in a well lit area. Have an alarm and immobiliser fitted if your vehicle doesn’t have one already.

Locking wheel nuts are cheap and easy to fit to prevent your alloy wheels being stolen. Catalytic converters can be marked using a specialist metal security making chemical and secure labels to warn potential thieves that the catalytic converter carries an identification mark.

Key Security Keep your car keys safe and out of sight at home. Ensure they are not left near unlocked doors or open windows in your home to ensure they are not easily available to opportunist thieves. Never leave your keys in your vehicle, even for a second. This includes at fuel stations and when de-icing your vehicle.

Car Key Security Keyless Entry Vehicles security – Thieves are targeting vehicles which have keyless entry system using digital scanners allowing the car to be unlocked without a trace of forced entry or damage. Signal blocking pouches will block the signal from a keyless entry fob. Understand the digital functions of your car, do you have a keyless entry system, if so, can the fob be switched off overnight? Speak to your dealer about software updates and whether new key fobs with added security are available.

Regular remote locking fobs which require the car owner to press a button are not vulnerable to these crimes, it is only those cars which allow the owner to approach and unlock the car with the keys still in their pocket.

Road Works Residents are aware that Shepshed is regularly grid locked due to all the road works around Shepshed. I receive a number of complaints regarding mud on

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the road especially outside the developers on Hathern Road and Tickow Lane.

I believe there have been a large number of Shepshed residents sending their comments to County re the proposals on Tickow Lane outside of the Jelson development, as I have. What I am amazed at is that there is a proposal for a zebra crossing on Tickow Lane, which I do think will be needed when all the houses are finished and occupied. BUT County do not think that the already agreed zebra crossing on Anson, which I got as part of the S106 agreement, (this means the developer pays for it) meets the criteria, due to they say, currently residents do not cross Anson Road in the same place, and it will only be used in the mornings and at school times, but I am of the opinion, that if a crossing is provided then pedestrians will use it.

Trees Trees in highways falls under the remit of the County and following concerns raised by residents living in Lambert Avenue I have been assured by County that the trees in this area will be pollarded later this year. This should improve the situation but it will obviously be an ongoing concern. I have also asked that the trees on Glenmore can be pollarded at the same time.

In some cases the problem is low hanging branches causing an inconvenience to pedestrians.

Conservative Prospective Candidate For The Police And Crime Commissioner The meeting which was organised to meet Rupert Mathews was held on 23rd January Rupert answered questions and outlined the job of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

In attendance was also the new MP Jane Hunt who answered questions of her experiences as being a brand new MP and the Chairman of Shepshed Town Council, cllr Joan Tassell.

Visits Carer Of The Year Awards I was asked to speak and introduce the Carer of the year awards and gave the Inspired to Care opening address, at The Grand hotel in Leicester, it was lovely to meet such dedicated people. I learnt about the excellent work carried out by social care staff, contributions from individuals who go above and beyond to make a genuine positive impact on the quality of life experienced by individuals across Leicester and Leicestershire. Leicestershire County Council through its Inspired to Care project supported the awards because it is vitally important that we strive to create a social care workforce that is valued and recognised for the excellent work they do on a daily basis.

Social care needs more staff – in Leicestershire alone the workforce is around 16,5000 individuals, with an estimated further 11,000 staff required by 2030. The Inspired to Care project supports the external social care workforce.

There were various sponsors for each category such as Palliative Carer, Supporting Independence, Residential Care Professional, Community Care Professional, Dementia Care Professional, Autism Support Professional, Best Newcomer to Care, Care Leader, Special Recognition, Lifetime Achievement Award and Inspired to Care Member, and finally an overall Carer of the Year Award.

The special recognition award went to a 13 year old girl who has two disabled brothers who have a terminal condition and her dad also had an emergency triple heart bypass operation recently. Her mum said she has always helped look after her siblings and has juggled this while keeping up with her school work and sorting out her GCSEs for the coming year.

The Carer of the Year was picked from the winners of the all the categories, this award was given to an individual who stood out to the judges. The winner had shown true dedication and commitment to caring. They are an inspiration to their colleagues. I was privileged to present this award to Susan Legg she really stood out whilst judging the awards as a person that had gone above and beyond for the people she supported. She was the winner of the Dementia Care Professional.

Improving Lives Through Adult earning On two Saturdays in January and February I attended the Adult Learning staff, managers and business support staff briefings at County Hall. I was asked to open the meetings since Adult Learning was added to my portfolio last year. I have been getting to know more about the service and the work they do. I had already met with staff and managers from the Family Learning programme and been impressed by the broad range of courses offered and the way in which the programmes inspire and support people from many different backgrounds to get back into learning. It is clear our community learning programmes have a particularly important role to play in supporting those likely to benefit most from enrolling on a course.

Adult Learning really does have the potential to impact positively on the lives of so many individuals and their families, and of course the wider community, by building confidence, enabling individuals to learn valuable life skills and supporting positive wellbeing.

Throughout the year I hear of stories which describe how; Arts and Leisure courses have a positive impact on health and well being, targeted Mental Health courses help vulnerable learners become more resilient. Learner feedback also describes how developing competence in English, Maths, Languages and Digital Skills opens doors to opportunities that many of our learners did not believe possible. I am proud of being part of a highly regarded service and enjoyed speaking to Tutors and hope to visit some of them in their localities and am keen to learn more about Adult Learning from a governance perspective.

Records Office On Monday 10th February I visited the records office in Wigston to see the extent of the Thomas Cook collection and was amazed at the amount of documents kept there. I visited the strong rooms and restoration area. The County are looking to move the records office to a larger site in the near future. Will keep you informed.

Thomas Cook - It is anticipated that the full catalogue will be completed by the end of 2021. Given the expected interest, a promotional display will be exhibited in January 2021 for the public. There is currently a small exhibition in the Record Office foyer which is already available to the public.

Full Council – Budget Meeting – 19th February I spoke at the Full Council and thank the Director and officers of the Adults and Communities work they had done regarding the work carried out into increasing the capacity for Extra Care Housing. And spoke about what financial contributions County have made to the development of two extra care facilities by East Midlands Housing; of £1.5 million, these contributions secure nomination rights at Blaby delivering 44 one bed units, 6 two bed units and 13 bungalows, In Loughborough £1.5 million delivering 52 one bed units and 20 two bed units.

The social care investment plan will seek to develop further extra care facilities with North West Leicestershire and Hinckley and Bosworth being the priorities.

To date the County have invested £4 million to secure 35 units of accommodation at three locations for working age adults. A further £2.3 million has been offered to secure a further 17 units at three locations, again for working age adults.

Additional to this, £3 million is allocated for the re-development of a county site in NWL which will deliver 17 units of supported living, a six unit short break service and community life choices (day service unit).

In the Capital Programme funding has also been allocated for the refurbishment of The Trees in Hinckley and Ashby Court in Loughborough, both of which I managed to have a look around before the refurbishment was started.

Iveshead School (Old Hind Leys) Most of you will be aware that there are going to be alterations at the school.

County are looking at the last week in April (after Easter) to hold a public consultation event at the school. County will be producing a press release in the last week of March.

Charnwood Hall I would like to confirm that the closure of Charnwood Hall had nothing to do with County as it is a privately owned business.

Biffa, Newhurst Quarry, Ashby Road I understand that the latest alterations have been approved and that work will commence this year. SWISS cleantech company Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI) has won the public tender to build the Biffa incinerator. The Newhurst facility will treat up to 350,000 tonnes of none-recyclable municipal solid waste each year and will also generate up to 42 MW of low-carbon electricity, enough to power around 80,000 homes. With electrical net efficiency of 31.3 per cent, the installation will also be one of the most energy-efficient in the world, says HZI. When the application for an incinerator first came up at a planning committee, as your County Cllr I voted against it, as did the planning committee, but unfortunately the inspector approved it. I shall ask that the liaison committee to reconvened as soon as possible.

Flooding Following the recent problems with flooding, I have been asked to remind residents/land owners that it is your responsibility if you have a ditch/dyke/ or water course running through or next to your property to make sure it is clear and not blocked up with grass cutting, branches or rubbish. (Riparian Act).

Blockages further downstream could cause major problems to house holders and businesses. We have a number of these running through Shepshed, such as to the rear of properties in Brookside Close, Forman Road and Cotton Croft, on the new estate off Iveshead Road. The recent blockage here caused the main Ashby Road to be flooded; this had only recently been cleaned out by County.

I am regularly contacted by residents who live in Hathern regarding the problems on the A6. This is being looked into by County.

Your Help And Support 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 10-11am. No appointment is necessary.

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

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, AntiSocial 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/19/2296/2 – 183 Conway Dr – erection of detached garage and installation of dropped kerb P/20/0168/2 – 11 Tickow Lane – proposed detached double garage to front of existing, conversion of existing garage to living accommodation and construction of wall and timber fence 1.8m high with gated entrance along front boundary.

P/20/0196/2 – land off Hathern Road – discharge of condition 5 of P/16/0686/2) P/20/2049/2 – Glenfields Farm, 8 Charley Road – demolition of existing barn and stable outbuilding and erection of a part single, part two-storey extension to the rear elevation of the host dwelling house in its stead.

P/19/0352/2 – land off Tickow Lane (Davis estate) – proposed erection of 169 dwellings and associated works (reserved matters – P/18/0586/2) – this is a revised scheme and relates to an amended layout, house type revisions. This is reflective of the Local Planning Authority’s requests and those of the statutory consultees.

P/20/02512 – Red Lion, 13 Market Place – conversion of existing first floor flat to 3 residential units.

P/20/0195/2 – 77 Belton St - erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling P/19/2225/2 – 18 Glenfields – proposed single storey extensions to rear of existing dwelling P/20/0174/2 – 3 Wellingtonia Close – conversion of integral garage to dining room P/20/0193/2 – 5 Brook St (The Crown) – formation of skittle alley from and fenestration alterations to existing stores buildings to rear and erection of timber canopy to part of rear courtyard P/200209/2 – 40C Sullington Rd – the erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.5m, with a maximum height of 3.5m, and height to the eaves of 3m (prior notification) P20/0277/2 – 64 & 66 Brick Kiln Lane – discharge of condition 14 of P/13/246/2 Planning Applications Approved P/19/1849/2 – 58 Lacey Court – formation of dropped kerb to Pharmacy P/19/2452/2 – 252 Charnwood Road – certificate of lawful development for a proposed loft conversion with dormer extension to rear roof slope and addition of roof light to the front roof slope.

P//9/1546/2 – Little Haw Lane Playing Fields, Thorpe Road – erection of 2 fixed dugouts next to existing football pitch P/19/1955/2 - 4 Sandringham Rise – Proposed raised patio to the rear and single storey extension to side of dwelling P/19/2349/2 – 42 Orchard Close – erection of two storey side extension and single storey rear extension (revised scheme P/19/0439/2) P/19/2158/2 – 17 Oxford Street – proposed single storey extensions to front, side and rear of existing dwelling P/19/1733/2 – 27 Purbeck Av – erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling P/19/2461/2 – Arnold Smith House, Bridge St – replacement of flat roof to building.

Erection Of Up To 210 Dwellings P/19/2436/2 – land off Ashby Road West – Erection of up to 210 dwellings with associated access, landscaping, open space and sustainable drainage.

Cllrs Radford and Tassell as ward Cllrs have had a meeting with an officer from the planning department and discussed their concerns regarding this application.

They have also requested that it goes to a plans committee and that they will speak against this application.

On Going Planning Applications The planning application P/19/1562/2 for the installation of 14 floodlights to the building’s exterior and erection of a security camera tower in the front car park at Davey House (Megitt), Gelders Hall Road, has still not been decided by Charnwood. Cllr Radford is keeping residents informed and understands that an enforcement notice has been issued regarding this application.

Officers have been made aware of trees having been removed and cut down behind businesses in Gelders Hall backing onto Jubilee Walk.

Cllr Radford has also report the problem of pollution to the environmental health department at Charnwood following the installation of chimneys.

Rear of 62 Iveshead Road – P17/1935/2 – this application is still being considered at the detailed stage, but following residents concerns regarding movement to the site via Iveshead Lane – condition 7 (P/14/0777/2) which stated no vehicle or pedestrian access should be from Iveshead Lane, it was bought to the officers attention that work had already been started, but this was to erect Herras fencing around the perimeter of the site as a large part of this fencing had been damaged or destroyed.

Officers stated that they will continue to monitor the site and your borough cllrs would like to thank residents for keeping them informed of any activity in this area.

It has been noted that outline planning for this development has now expired, and this has been brought to the officers attention as we need to know what happens next.

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Charnwood Hall At the time of going to press, no planning application has been deposited with Charnwood. But rest assured that the ward cllrs, Popley and Savage will be keeping an eye on it.

Planning Application Submitted For Elsewhere In Charnwood-SUE (Thurmaston) We thought you might be interested in the SUE North East of Leicester (Near Thurmaston) it is more advanced than the SUE on the Garendon site and detailed approval was given at the plans committee on the 30th January for 5,000 dwellings in 3 phases on land to the North East of Leicester near to the villages of Barkby and Barkby Thorpe.

The application numbers are P/19/1369/2, P/19/1457/2, P/19/1374/2 and P/19/1479/2. These four planning applications should be read in conjunction as they all relate to the same area around the small villages of Barkby Thorpe and Barkby which will have heavy traffic in their area for the next 15 + years. There is due to be 4 new access roads into this area 2 from Barkbythorpe Road and 1 from Hamilton Lane South and 1 from Hamilton Lane North. The applicants are Commercial Estate Project Ltd, David Wilson Homes East Midlands, William Davis Ltd and Davidsons Developments.

Planning Application Approved For Outwoods Visitor Centre Charnwood (CBC) submitted the application last year to convert the former ranger’s cottage into a cafe and visitor centre. Work is due to start in spring with the aim of the centre opening in the autumn. It is intended that the visitor centre would include a cafe, toilets and space for displays.

The ranger’s cottage has been largely unused for many years so it will be great to see it brought back to life to improve facilities for everyone who visits this ancient and much-loved woodland. CBC are committed to improving the Outwoods while ensuring we maintain its natural and historic character on behalf of the people of Charnwood. As well as the visitor centre, last year a new natural play area and events shelter was opened.

Responsibility of the Outwoods lies with the Outwoods Management Committee which is a separate body to the Council. However, CBC effectively maintains the Outwoods working alongside the committee.

Dog Dirt Residents contact us on a regular basis regarding the problem with dog dirt, and in fact blame us Cllrs. Can we just say, it is not us Cllrs who foul the pavement or grass verges, but it is irresponsible dog owners who do not pick up after their dogs or when they do, throw the dog bags in the hedge or just leave on the ground.

The areas regularly reported on, is the area just off Anson road leading into Buttercup Drive, around the Black Swan, Forman Road area, Lambert Avenue, grassed areas near Fairway Road and Trueway Drive, McCarthy Road leading onto Tickow Lane, Iveshead Lane, St Bernards Close/Griffin Close area and in some cases around and inside children’s play equipment and play areas.

We would just like to remind dog owners you could be fined £1,000 for not picking up and disposing of the mess in a correct manner.

We have contact Charnwood asking for more bins to be placed in strategic places as we feel this does not help the situation. You can dispose of these bags in ordinary litter bins as long as they are tied up.

Cllr. Radford put a question to the Full Council at Charnwood on the 24th February asking that Charnwood provide more bins in areas where dogs are walked especially at the entrances to rights of way into the countryside. There should be no excuse then not to dispose of dog waste in the correct manner.

Jubilee Walk Cllr Radford and Tassell have had their meeting with officers and can confirm that work should commence sometime this year on clearing the debris which has built up over the years and a new hard standing of aggregate will be used to make the path base more suitable. A better access to the path on Tickow Lane, near to the old railway bridge, will also be constructed by joining to the new path making it safer for walkers.

During this meeting we also learnt that CBC are proposing to improve the foot paths and access to Morley Quarry which is a nature area just off Iveshead Road during 2021.

Lacey Court There are a number of ongoing issues in Lacey Court which are long standing.

We are pleased to report that the problems with the lighting has now been started and with the help of the residents monitored. The problem with the BT was an ongoing issue and escalated to a complaints procedure at BT. This has now been sorted, but took over 18 months. The issue of the pot holes in the road is one that is still being pursued.

Parish And Town Councils Commit To Support Armed Force Community Eight parish and town councils have shown their commitment to supporting military personnel community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.

Charnwood Borough Council hosted the event where parish councils from across the borough came together to pledge their support for current serving personnel, veterans, reservists and their families.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation to ensure that those who serve or who have served in the Armed Forces and their families, are treated fairly and do not face disadvantage. Groups, organisations, charities, local authorities and businesses are encouraged to sign up to it.

Cllr Joan Tassell, as Chairman of Shepshed Town Council signed the covenant on behalf of Shepshed and was supported by Cllr Peter Grainger who is the Town Council Champion for the Armed Forces.

Proposal To Increase Council Tax By Less Than 9p A Week Charnwood Borough Council is proposing to raise its share of council tax by less than 9p per week for a band D property.

The proposed increase would see the annual charge for an average Band D property rise £4.43 (3.63 per cent) from April 1st, 2020. It is also being proposed to increase the Loughborough Special Rate to £76.46 per year, the equivalent of a parish precept in villages and paid by residents of the town. Even with these increases, it means Charnwood will still have one of the lowest council tax rates in the country. However the budget does include some of the reserves.

Charnwood collects the tax for Charnwood, Police, Fire, County and either a Parish or Town as well as the Loughborough special rate. The Charnwood element accounts for less than 10 per cent of the total bill.

What’s Your Idea To Make Loughborough Better Than Ever?

Ideas are being sought to help transform Loughborough as part of a project to secure up to £25 million of government funding.

Loughborough is one of 100 places across the country which have been offered the chance to bid for Town Deal funding to regenerate town centres, boost businesses and improve infrastructure and connectivity.

The Loughborough Town Deal Board, which is overseeing the project, met for the first time recently and ensuring the community are engaged in the process was high on the agenda.

Views are being sought on what makes Loughborough great and what could make it better. People can have a say online by visiting www.charnwood. gov.uk/towndealcomment or http://bit.ly/20WHnxt or on Twitter at hashtag LBoroTownDeal Residents have been asked to put forward ideas for the town, no matter how small or large, and get involved in helping to create a brighter future for Loughborough.

Celebrating Community Safety In Charnwood Great work to improve community safety in Charnwood has been highlighted at an awards ceremony.

Charnwood Community Safety Partnership was a finalist in the Safer Community Celebration Awards organised by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire.

Local police inspector Mark Botte also picked up the Visible Policing Award.

The partnership says good results have been achieved thanks to greater partnership working. Examples include the implementation of a drug strategy to identify and assist people at risk of drug abuse and working with local schools and agencies to identify young people at risk of reoffending or harm and putting steps in place to mitigate the risk and support them.

Police have also carried out Operation Lionheart to tackle County Lines activity in the borough and promoted Neighbourhood Link, a community messaging service.

According to the latest figures, the total number of crimes in Charnwood was down seven per cent in 2019 to 9,590 incidents compared to 2018. The figures showed burglaries of homes was down by 25 per cent while burglaries at businesses down 40 percent. Theft from vehicles down 19 per cent while shop lifting down 31 per cent. Cycle theft down 34 per cent and robbery down 12 per cent but violent attacks with injury were up 5 per cent and theft of vehicles rose 2 per cent.

For more information about community safety in Charnwood please visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages.safety or follow @SaferCharnwood on Twitter.

Fusion Fusion is a registered charity which has successfully operated the Council’s three leisure centres for a number years.

We would like to inform you that from 30th March the leisure centres operated

by Fusion Lifestyle across Charnwood will be moving to a cashless operation.

Fusion stated that the leisure centres will remain inclusive and while they will no longer handle cash, steps will be in place to ensure everyone can still access their services. Anyone who does not have access to bank cards or has children coming into the centre will be able to load prepaid sessions cash onto one of Fusions Reward cards to use as and when required. Rewards cards are free of charge available on request from any leisure centre. Credit can be uploaded onto the Reward card either in their centres, over the phone or online via their website and mobile application.

If you have any further queries, please contact Matthew Smith, Charnwood Contract Manager on Matthew.Smith@fusion-lifestyle.com Questions To Full Council Cllr Radford asked a question at the Full Council on 20th January regarding the lack of communication of details of the Draft Local Plan Consultation and the fact the exhibition in Shepshed was poorly advertised, there was no information for residents to take away with them, or contact details to enable them to comment on these proposals. It is hoped that in future these concerns raised will be taken into account.

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

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