September 2020 Your Local Shepshed & Hathern

YOUR LOCAL 7,200 COPIES DELIVERED EVERY MONTH - SHEPSHED & HATHERN - SEPTEMBER 2020

Scaresheep Festival 10th - 11th October

Phil Cross Memorial Trophy

Town Councillors View New Outdoor Gym

Afternoon Tea Picnic Week Help Loros Celebrate 21st - 27th September

Belton Playgroup So What Is A Playgroup?

Using Pure Water, We Clean: Gutters and Fascias, Barge Boards, Windows & Conservatories, PV Panels

INSTALLER

JET WASHING - PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS

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

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

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

Bounce Back 3 Month Special Offer* Choose one magazine for 3 months or mix and match in all 3 areas

Quarter Page Only

£99+vat

(Only £33+vat per month)

Size: W94mm x H134mm

Half Page Only

Full Page

£198+vat

Only

(Only £66+vat per month)

£360+vat

(Only £120+vat per month)

Size: W194mm x H134mm

Size: W210mm x H297mm

All our advertising plans include FREE artwork design service

3 Your Local Magazines | Total Circulation 20,000 Choose from our 3 magazines below

Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston, Swithland, Newtown Linford, Woodhouse & Woodhouse Eaves, 6,000 Ratby, Kirby Muxloe & Leicester Forest East, 6,800 copies Shepshed & Hathern, 7,200 copies

copies

*Terms and Conditions: Offer applies to new customers only.

3 Easy Ways To Book Your Advertising Plan Online

www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

Call

0800 6446 150

Email

sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk

LEAFLETS BUSINESS CARDS BROCHURES/BOOKLETS NCR PADS POSTERS “I’ve changed printers recently, to Norwood Press, as they offered me a better price, and the quality of the print and the customer service is great.”

Regards Zoe

BUSINESS STATIONERY DESIGN SERVICE FREE DELIVERY

ORDER ONLINE - WWW.NORWOODPRESS.CO.UK - YOUR LOCAL PRINTER 2 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Contact Us

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

Articles

yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk 0800 6446 150

Shepshed Lions OAP October Lunch Article by Ann Bodycote

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Shepshed Lions have had to make the sad decision not to go ahead with their annual Senior Citizens lunch in October. We know this will be a great disappointment to many of our usual guests as for some it is a chance to meet up with old friends and have a good gossip. However, plans are being made to organise an alternative to the lunch and when those plans are clarified we will issue another statement.

In the meantime, keep well and stay safe.

Advertising

0800 6446 150 sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Distribution

Andrew Lewis 07504634838 andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Visit Our Website

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

Write To Us

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

Like & Follow Us

facebook.com/openboxpromotions twitter.com/openboxpromo

Next Issue Out

Deadline Date: Friday 25th September Delivery Date: Friday 2nd October

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

Read Online

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

Not got a QR scanner or not working?

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

Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responders Article by Bob Lilley

The Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responders are a group of volunteers who are trained and deployed by East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) to a wide range of medical emergencies in the Shepshed, Loughborough and surrounding villages.

The objectives of the scheme, which was established in December 2013, are to support members of the local community when they have urgent medical issues, and also to support the front line members of EMAS. The scheme is funded by charitable donations and sponsorship form local companies who enable us to continue to provide the support we give to the communities we serve. East Midlands Ambulance Service who has paid the vehicle lease, maintenance, insurance and fuel costs have previously provided the scheme with a vehicle. This is an invaluable resource and has enabled to scheme to grow and provide a professional response to incidents. However, due to financial restraints imposed on the Public Services, EMAS are unable to fund the lease hire for a vehicle. They do pay all the fuel, maintenance and insurance costs for a replacement vehicle.

In January 2020 I started fundraising to raise funds to pay the lease for a replacement vehicle and I am delighted

to announce that we have raised the necessary funds to fund the costs of the lease for the next 3 years. The vehicle is now in use in the Shepshed, Loughborough and surrounding areas.

The following sponsored the vehicle: • Shepshed Lions Club • Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responders • Ashby and Coalville Lions Club • Intelligent Energy, Loughborough • Campbell Scientific, Shepshed • Richard Waldron, Long Whatton • A number of other very generous donations by donors, who wish to remain anonymous, also supported this project.

Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responder Coordinator Bob Lilley said “The East Midlands Ambulance Service has supported the scheme since we started this project from the start in December 2013 and have fully funded our two previous vehicles for use by our volunteer CFR’s which has enabled the scheme to grow.

However, due to financial restrictions they are unable to fully fund the new replacement vehicle. They will continue to fund fuel, maintenance and insurance costs for the new vehicle but with the help of our generous sponsors and donors we are able to fund the lease of the vehicle for the next three years. This has given our team a massive boost as the vehicle is perfect for the purpose of responding to medical emergencies. In these very difficult times it amazes us that companies and individuals can make very generous donations to support this public service. We cannot thank them enough.”

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 3

Phil Cross Memorial Trophy Article by Brenda Snape

Presentation of the Phil Cross Memorial Trophy to the winners of this years best kept allotment. (Leicester Road Allotment Site). The Trophy is being presented by the Chairman of Council, Cllr Peter Grainger to Gary and Heather Law. Cllr Peter Grainger “It Was A Difficult Decision To Make As The Site Is Managed Extremely Well And There Is High Standard Of Care And Effort Made By A Majority Of Plot Holders” Heather Law “It was a lovely surprise to be told that I had won the Phil Cross Memorial Trophy. It was a great honour for me to have my allotment recognised, especially with so many great allotments to choose from.

Although working an allotment is hard work, it is very rewarding and brings me and my family great pleasure. I would like to thank the town council for awarding me this privilege.“

Leisure Facilities For Shepshed Article by C. Radford and J.Tassell

Over the last few months, some Shepshed residents have been calling for a Leisure Centre or Gymnasium. Shepshed Town Council has been blamed for not supplying one, but has supplied outdoor gym equipment on Glenmore Park. This equipment is free to use at any time of any day.

To provide a Leisure centre with pool and gym it would cost approx. £6-7million pounds to build and in the region of £2million pounds per year to run. Shepshed Town Council does not have the powers to execute a Leisure Centre. The company who runs the leisure centres in Loughborough and Mountsorrel are asking for monetary support because they are in financial difficulties.

For residents that are unaware, the Glenmore Centre was built as a sports centre for badminton and other indoor sports with a grant from Sports England. It survived for just over 3 years, it was then rented as a gymnasium which flourished for about 4 years, but then began to lose money, which led to its closure. After the Centre closed Sports England asked for the grant back because it had ceased to be a sports venue. This debt fell on the people of Shepshed as the Town Council had to take out a 25-year mortgage to cover the cost of the grant repayment.

It is now a community centre which is heavily used by groups and residents of the town.

About 4 years ago two local Councillors Christine Radford and Joan Tassell approached Serco a company who have great experience in running leisure centres throughout the country. They came and looked at the pool and sports hall also the old youth club on the Iveshead campus. They were very impressed and could see great potential as a leisure area. They made an offer to rent all three from the school and also give back a portion of the profits to the school. It would have meant that the area would have become a small leisure unit with no additional costs to Shepshed. Serco had taken over several other small school sites across the country as well as their own bigger leisure centres which they run at a profit.

Even though the school would have made a profit out of this proposal and also, would not have the expenditure of maintaining the pool, and sports hall, no support was given to this project by the school themselves. After several months waiting for a decision by the Iveshead campus managers, Serco put the project on the back burner. Even though it was followed up by the two Councillors, nothing became of it, because the Iveshead campus just were not interested.

It would have been a great opportunity for Shepshed and for the residents, especially the swimming pool, which was built for the people of Shepshed by the people of Shepshed.

4 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

We remain fully available for appointments via face to face, telephone, email and now by post if required. We are still willing to meet our clients in the comfort of their homes by appointment only and are following guidance provided by the Government in regards to hygiene and safe distancing.

We will of course work with you, our customers and partners, and respect their wishes on preferred means of contract.

Kornerstone Legal Services remains here for you.

Protecting Your Family’s Inheritance Article by Klara Hesling Most people hope that their estate will pass on to their children and grandchildren eventually.

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.

Kornerstone Wealth Protection and Legal services will assess your current circumstances and arrange the trust that will provide the best protection for you, your family and your assets.

The true way in providing an affordable professional serv

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

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

Klara Your Regulated Estate Planner

Virtual, Garden and Home Appointments Available

Our prices include home visits and Inheritance Tax advice.

Property Protection Trust

Call us now for a friendly chat on: 01509 767000

www.kornerstonelegal.co.uk|info@kornerstonelegal.co.uk 19 Kirkhill | Shepshed | LE12 9PA | Freephone: 0800 193 7377 VAT Reg Number 328741586.

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

Charnwood Landscaping Hard Landscaping Specialist

• Block Paving • Patios • Decking • Turfing • Fencing Fully Insured, Local Company

Contact us to arrange for a free consultation T: 01509 550422 - M: 07541304447 E: charnwood.landscaping@hotmail.co.uk @charnwoodlandscaping

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

Mobile: 07494820600 Telephone: 01530 231 631

Email: eandlmaintenanceltd@outlook.com www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 5

Jane Hunt Member of Parliament

T: 01509 262723 E: jane.hunt.mp@parliament.uk In my last column I wrote about how life was slowly starting to return to normal and how wonderful it was to see families reunited. Since then, we have seen further relaxations and it is encouraging to see the economy beginning to recover as a result.

I have had positive feedback recently about the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme; and it’s been great to see the pubs and restaurants open again, serving customers. I mentioned in my last column how I had been to the Bull & Bush in Shepshed to see the social distancing and hygiene measures they had put in place to allow the pub to safely reopen. I was so impressed, that I decided to return to take advantage of the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme. I would recommend the pub to anyone. The safety measures were excellent, as was the food and welcoming pub team.

One of the sectors I was particularly pleased to see return, is grassroots sports. Grassroots sports helps us to keep active, fosters friendships and improves our mental health. After a lengthy period of lockdown, these things are all hugely important. Further relaxation has now meant it has become a lot easier to take part in grassroots sports and physical activity in general. There is evidence that moderate exercise performed for 20-30 minutes 3-4 times per week strengthens the immune system and reduces the risk of viral infection. So why not take advantage of the newly reopened gyms and leisure centres? One of the areas I have been pushing for is for a reopening of swimming pools and I have been working with Swim England who are based at SportPark at Loughborough University to encourage the Government to do this. I am pleased to say that pools are reopening, which is something I know will be welcomed by many. And if gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools aren’t your thing, then Active Charnwood Alliance have plenty of ideas on their website for keeping active: www.charnwoodsport.org.uk Whilst I’m on the topic of sport, I very much welcomed the announcement by Government recently that SportPark will receive £6million for the construction of 2,000 sqm additional employment space, which will help realise the ambition to create a global sports hub locally. The University is already the largest employer in the area, but the expansion of SportPark will directly support the creation of 165 jobs, and a further 157 jobs in the wider economy both in Shepshed and in Hathern. The Government also announced on the same day a further £1.8million for improvements at Junction 23 M1 and the A512. The scheme will deliver an upgrade of 2.5km of single carriageway road to dual carriageway; the remodelling of five A512 junctions and improvements to M1 junction 23. Taken together, this is a nearly £8million of investment in the local area.

Finally, whilst it is wonderful to see life returning to normal, it is important to continue to follow public health advice. The recent lockdown in Leicester is a stark reminder that the virus is still here.

There are a few key things we can all do to stop the spread. Wash your hands, cover your face & make space.

6 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Outdoor Gym Equipment Article by Brenda Snape

Town Councillors in Glenmore Park viewing the new Outdoor Gym equipment which has recently been installed at a cost £19,991.24.

Pictured are Cllrs. Jane Lennie, Robin Popley, C Radford, M Roberts and Joan Tassell. This new equipment has been well received and being used since it was installed, however, last weekend, it was vandalised, only a matter of weeks after the installation. It is very disheartening that the minority has little respect and spoils it for the majority. Fortunately, the equipment has since be repaired.

Covid Snake Stones Article by Brenda Snape

Shepshed Town Council had been approached by some local residents relating to the Covid Snake Stones which have been laid in various locations around Shepshed during lockdown. The requests were for a permanent lasting memorial to commemorate the community spirit generated during the lockdown period. A subcommittee was formed consisting of Shepshed Town Councillors and members of the public, however, not all of those invited were able to attend the meetings.

Last week a site meeting was held in Glenmore Park to decide on a suitable location to create an art feature utilising the stones.

A location was identified and it was agreed to invite people of Shepshed to choose their stone which they would like to be included in the feature (must be painted to an acceptable finish).

The chosen stone is to be placed in a plastic bag together with details of their name and the location their stone came from and also £1 donation towards the cost of materials to cure the stones. The stone is then to be delivered to the Town Council Office (opposite Tesco Express) at 47a Charnwood Road, Shepshed LE12 9QE. Closing date for submission of stones is no later than Wednesday 30th September.

F DE X T ER Tarmacadam Block Paving Patios, Driveways, Car Park, Gravel Drives.

All Aspect Of Work Carried Out. Fully Insured.

Tel: 01509 504455 Mob: 07880851089

A local artist, who, also attended the site meeting has been asked to create a design to include the stones, these will be cured first and then set in concrete For further information please email contact@ shepshedtowncouncil.org or telephone 01509 508872

NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS HERE’S HOW IT WORKS To visit our showroom just ring

01509 212 333

to make an appointment and the showroom will be opened just for you.

78 Leicester Road, Loughborough, LE11 2AG.

s e ar er Ye H 5 ing ad Tr

A s O Se n en TV

Free Parking directly opposite

KATS ANTIQUE VINTAGE AND COLLECTABLES CENTRE

1500 sq ft over 2 floors of Antique, vintage and collectibles inc quality gold and silver jewellery, coins, militaria, stamps, hand painted furniture, giftware, interiors and much more

ALSO WANTED

• All gold & silver jewellery including scrap & broken items • We pay more - the highest prices in the area • Costume jewellery • All coins Environmentally friendly chalk • Militaria & medals and mineral paint. No VOC • Stamps Solvent Free, No Odour.

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

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

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

CALL 07792974309 Public car park to rear of shop Free parking from 3pm everyday and all day Sunday

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 7

Keith Harris Borough Councillor for Hathern

T: 01509 557701 E: cllr.keith.harris@charnwood.gov.uk I received some very good news about the proposed new woodland in Hathern. Adam Goodall, the officer in charge of this, has drafted a proposal and plan which contain a lot of good reasons why this should go forward. It involves a change of use and so he has to obtain permission from the planning department to go ahead. The land behind Golden Square has been vacant for two years after the tenancy for agricultural use expired. The land can’t be built on because it is an Area of Local Separation, which means that it can’t be developed as it is essential to maintain Hathern’s identity as a separate community. It cannot be used for energy production either as Golden Square is very close and the residents would not like wind turbines keeping them awake. The woodland would comprise 15,000 trees and contribute 15% of the borough’s target of 100,000 trees to be planted, which would gobble up many tons of carbon, helping to boost the council’s efforts towards being carbon neutral. For the residents it would provide a lovely amenity with paths, open spaces, rides, glades, picnic areas and a wildlife pond.

Adam has the full and very enthusiastic support of the parish council, the two borough councillors Emma and myself and of the county councillor.

He would be very happy to receive support from residents as he seeks to get it approved. The wood will need a name. If you would like to suggest one, contact the parish council.

There is good news on the Daisy Bank front as well. Cara Wild, the officer in charge, has told me that she has been promised a schedule of work soon from William Davis detailing how they are going to finish the planting and other works. Thank you to any residents who contacted WD. Cara’s contact did mention that he had received communications from residents. Hopefully we can knock it on the head this autumn and move to the first certificate of completion.

The Community Library has opened again. You can make an appointment or you can turn up and take your turn when there are no other visitors inside.

You must be all used to standing in a queue by now! We can’t order books from other libraries at the moment, as the main libraries are not open and the distribution system is not functioning yet. You can download ebooks as well. Don’t forget to encourage your children to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge. There are the physical books in the building and ebooks on the website.

Shepshed & District Camera Club Article by Brian Walbey

The members of Shepshed and District Camera Club are still continuing to take advantage of the various Covid-19 restrictions to meet together via Zoom during the usual summer close-down period and indeed have managed to attract several new people to join them online on Tuesday evenings.

Early on in July the club was entertained

by Tony North, a teacher from Manchester who is very adept at Macro photography and spends a lot of his time running workshops and presentations. He showed an excellent selection of his photographs with a full description of the equipment and techniques he used to take the images.

One of the guests to the club, Joy NobleRollin, gave a very entertaining illustrated talk of her two visits over recent years to Jordan and four Club members, Fred Ing, Kevin Moore, Jason Ametrine and Brian Walbey gave short talks about their introduction to photography as a hobby and showed examples of their work.

Angels Edwards (Blown Away)

Alan Harris (The Manager)

Most recently the postponed third round of the annual club competition league took place in early August with Colin Machin judging the Close Up/Still Life class and Mandy Sheringham judging the Open class, all the entries being digital images this time. The results of each class were as follows: Close Up/Still Life 1st. Angels Edwards (Blown Away) 2nd. Alan Harris 3rd. Phil Tapp

Hathern Together are placing videos of one garden a week in the virtual version of Open Gardens.

Open 1st. Alan Harris (The Manager) 2nd. Sue Hutton 3rd. Garry Rennocks

I have heard that some Charnwood residents have submitted comments regarding the Garendon SUE development with the impression that they can still object to it as a whole. The SUE has had permission for over 4 years now. Residents can, however, raise questions about aspects of the plan which do not appear to be clear, for example, how the agricultural land will be accessed. On July 23 I had an online meeting with borough councillors Emma Ward and Paul Boldrin and the county councillors Betty Newton and Max Hunt to discuss aspects of the development which we would like some explanations on and we are submitting questions.

We are continuing to meet regularly on Zoom on Tuesday evenings for the foreseeable future with a varied programme of talks, competitions and image sharing, and non-competitive photographic challenges. Please contact us on 07733 314605 if you are interested. There is no charge for initial meetings, so come along and try us out before committing to join us.

Hathern Parish Council is holding its meetings online on Zoom for the foreseeable future. The next meeting is on August 3rd at 7.30. This may arrive too late for you to join that one. Residents can join all meetings and bring up issues during the public participation part and when the Chair allows them to comment on other matters, which is normally the case. The next meetings after that will be on September 14th and October 26th.

The parish council has now opened Hathern Park fully and that includes the play area and skatepark. Users must still maintain social distancing and personal hygiene. Only one household is allowed on any play item at a time.

Instructions have been placed in the park. Please observe the guidelines and rules and keep everyone safe.

The council invites organisations or individuals to hire the park space to run group sessions for exercise, fitness or skills training.

Charnwood had 813 coronavirus cases up to July 25th with a rate per 100,000 around 430 which is a lower rate than Blaby, Hinckley and Bosworth and Oadby and Wigston. The number of new cases in our borough is very low.

Our population seems to be observing the guidelines very closely. Please stay safe by maintaining social distancing and personal hygiene including washing hands and disinfecting surfaces and wearing a mask in enclosed spaces.

8 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Second Shepshed Safari Yard Sale Date Announced Article by Lindsey Aldridge

The first Shepshed Safari Yard sale took place on Sunday 2nd August when 50 households took part in selling their unwanted items. It was a busy day with buyers travelling from Loughborough, Coalville and beyond looking to grab a bargain. Shepshed Volunteer Centre was chosen to receive the £54 proceeds from the event.

The next yard sale will take place on Sunday 13th September from 10am to 2pm and all proceeds will be donated to Passion.

Refreshments will be available from 103 Conway Drive who are raising money in aid of Freya’s Namibia Fund. There is a small seating area where cakes and hot and cold drinks will be served.

Stalls cost £1.00 and must be booked by Wednesday 9th September to be included on the sellers list. For further information or to book a stall, please search ‘Shepshed Safari Yard Sale’ on Facebook or call 07899 887918.

Unit 4, Kenway Brook Street Shepshed LE12 9RG 01509 504010 Mon - Fri 9am to 4.30pm

Introducing the first glasses made from recycled plastic debris, fished from the sea

Every day the equivalent of 200 trucks filled with plastic ends up in the ocean, harming our sea life.

Sea2See frames are made from recycled plastic, removed by fisherman, straight from the sea.

The 1st brand of eyewear using marine plastic waste to create beautiful hand finished frames.

01530 451458 07872 808287 FREE Measuring, Consultation & Fitting Verticals • Venetians • Rollers • Romans Pleated • Perfect Fit • Awnings • Shutters

Call now for a FREE quotation!

Phone: 01509 400 115 Mob: 0781 401 9882 www.synergyplumbingservices.co.uk

572581

Quality made to measure window blinds & shutters 2 Jarvis Way, Whitwick, Leicester LE67 5HP meridianblindscharnwood@gmail.com

SH

For all your Plumbing, Heating & Maintenance needs

U AV TTE AI RS LA N BL OW E

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTATION

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 9

“Word Of Life Lives On” Article by Simon Clarke

St Botolph’s Church Christian Aid Group Covid-19 Cookbook Article by Jane Payne

Throughout COVID-19 lockdown we have seen many symbols of hope, love and community spirit, and, we have been witness to the gifts of creativity within the community of Shepshed.

In the lockdown St Botolph’s Church did many creative things, we decorated the railings for Easter, VE Day and Pentecost.

Many of the church members volunteered to help people by shopping, collecting prescriptions, visiting, phoning and baking for others. The church quickly adapted to the changing times by using their talents to help one another. It was so difficult that we couldn’t do the normal house to house collections and other events had to be cancelled that we usually organise for Christian Aid. The following words from a member of the St Botolph’s Church Christian Aid Group during lockdown has inspired the creation of a Covid-19 Cookbook: "Presently, we are not able to meet or sit around a table for companionship. However, we could contribute to spiritually feeding one another by sharing our talents, as another way of demonstrating hope during difficult times" As you will be aware many charities are struggling with their fundraising this year due to COVID-19. Christian Aid is no different as their traditional fund-raising methods have been cancelled Door to Door collection, Sponsored Walk, Cake Stall, Coffee Morning and Concert. Here in Shepshed two members of our Christian Aid fundraising group Kath and Sam came up with the brilliant idea of creating a COVID-19 cookbook using recipes from our local community. It contains more than 40 favourite recipes some of which have been passed between generations and friends, such as soup, curry, lasagne, pudding and of course cakes and traybakes.

Please support this worthy charity.

If you would like a copy of the cookbook please contact Jane Payne 07980 033556, Isobel Goodliffe 07810 241302 or email office@ shepshedandoaks.co.uk so that collection and payment of £5 can be arranged.

Thank you in anticipation for your support.

10 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Any recent visitor to Shepshed’s Bull Ring can’t have failed to notice that a significant development is underway at Shepshed Word of Life Church. The old buildings have already been demolished, the foundations are expected to be finished by the end of September, a water-tight structure to be in place by Christmas, with the development itself complete by the Spring of next year, if all goes to plan.

The new one-storey development will not only have a larger worship area but will have improved facilities for the popular senior citizens’ day centre and toddlers and young peoples’ groups.

“We desperately wanted a building that was “fit-for-purpose” for the 21st century”, says pastor Simon Clarke. “Somewhere that, for generations to come, would be a hub for making Jesus Christ known as we seek to serve the people of Shepshed.”

“You’d be welcome to join us online every Sunday morning for our weekly service at 10:30. We also produce online a daily “Thought for Day” - that’s a 5-minute video reflection, showing the relevance, helpfulness and comfort of God’s word to life, not least in lockdown.

You’ll find us at our website: https://shepshedwordoflife.org If you want to get in touch please phone Simon Clarke on 07473 952161 or email SWOLC at contact@shepshedwordoflife.org

Charnwood Road Baptist Church Article by Rev Nigel Riley

Events of recent months have forced us to stay away from each other far more than we would wish. This hard for everyone, yet as Christians we know that God remains all-powerful, in Him we can still find peace and hope, and He will stay with us until the end of time.

Our meetings and worship services are online, and we would be pleased to offer you a virtual welcome to them. We are delighted that so many have accessed our online resources, including a good number that were not previously part of our fellowship. Passersby have, as we hoped, taken Try Praying booklets, and our church prayer box (by our front railings) is also open to any written prayers you might like to submit: these can be completely anonymous. If for any reason you would like to get in touch with us, please do so: our pastor's number is 07570 408128.

We also look forward to holding a (socially distanced) Open Air Service in Glenmore Park at 2.30pm on Sunday Sep 20th. Please do join us if you can, especially as we do not yet know when we can safely re-open our church for regular Sunday services.

And as part of practical outreach into the community, our FreeDA Debt Counselling Service continues to operate: this free and confidential service is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. All advisers are registered and trained and will work with you to find solutions tailored to your circumstances.

And we have just started running household Budgeting and Money Courses in conjunction with Shepshed Food Bank. Please phone 07500 721275 for further details on any of these important initiatives.

Shepshed Slimmer’s Come Back Together Article by Shepshed Slimming World Group Slimmer’s from Shepshed are making a ‘comeback’ as their Slimming World groups reopen, with local consultants Claire-Lou Wilson and Christina Herrod saying they’re excited to be back helping members to lose weight and improve their health in person.

Slimming World has been supporting members virtually since March. Now, following the current easing of restrictions in many areas, real-life groups are reopening.

And Slimming World Consultants in Shepshed are putting measures in place to ensure groups comply fully with government and local guidance and that their members can return safely to their much-loved Slimming World groups.

Claire-Lou says: “we’re delighted to be back together with our members! Our virtual groups have been a vital lifeline of support and we’re so proud of how members have been there for each other through these difficult months and continued to lose weight and get more active, but there’s nothing quite like the magic of our real-life groups.”

She says the health and safety of members has been the team’s top priority in planning the return of Slimming World groups: “Members will find a few things have changed in our groups to ensure that everyone feels safe, confident and comfortable. What hasn’t changed is the warm welcome, feeling of togetherness and the joy of being ‘in it together’.

“As well as looking forward to ‘that feeling’ of being back together with our existing members, we can’t wait to welcome new members to our groups too. Obesity is a huge issue in the news right now with evidence showing that carrying extra weight makes it harder for the body to fight COVID-19 and we’re proud to be part of the Governments plans to tackle obesity across the UK.” “We want anyone who’s worrying about their weight or health – especially if they’ve put on a few extra pounds during lockdown – to know that there is no judgement at a Slimming World group – just lots of understanding and a very warm welcome. At Slimming World losing weight isn’t about going hungry – our extra easy eating plan is super generous and very delicious.

For group details visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk. Due to new safety measures, all members are asked to book into a group before attending.

Tuesday Evening Loughborough Rugby Club Derby Road Playing Fields Cotton Way, Loughborough, LE11 5JF See www.slimmingworld.co.uk for details Wednesday Morning Shepshed Town Bowls Club (Opposite Asda) Charnwood Road, Shepshed, LE12 9QF Contact Christina to book 07486 532978 Wednesday Evening Christchurch Methodist Church Field Street, Shepshed, LE12 9AL Contact Claire-Lou to book 07488 243173

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 11

Belton Playgroup

Article by Samantha Dexter What is a Playgroup?

If you had asked that question in Belton back in the 1970s the answer would have been a group of mums meeting in an informal group at the Methodist Church on Long Street. They ran for 2 mornings per week from 9.15 to 11.45am, later becoming registered with Social Services.

By 1984 the Playgroup had moved to the village hall had became registered with Ofsted which brought new requirements and legislation with (low) paid, unqualified staff.

The Playgroup was predominately attended by Belton village children.

In 2007 a new manager was appointed which corresponded with a new Curriculum being introduced, The Early Years Foundation Stage. With the new curriculum came the Key Person system and the Learning Journeys which was the start of formal ‘parent participation’. Also, all practitioners became qualified to level 3 and undertook paediatric first aid training.

The leader achieved a Foundation Degree in Children and Young People’s services and became a Play Champion. Both achievements had an incredibly positive impact on children’s learning and development and reinforced the ethos of learning through play.

In 2010 The Government introduced 15 free hours for all 3- and 4-year olds closely followed by one school entry meaning the sessions increased to 3 hours for 4 mornings.

Later the Playgroup added toast club, Monday afternoon pre-school session and Wednesday afternoons.

In 2014 a Cabin was built which to give the children their own space at the rear of the hall and enabled them to be outside more.

Fun Filled Fridays started leading to better links to school as the children enjoy regular visits on Fridays.

In 2017 the 30 hours for eligible children was introduced and as the Playgroup could not offer the full thirty they started working with a local childminder and other providers to share learning and development through Progress Summaries In 2019 the committee and staff looked at the requirements of their service users and people in the local community. From that market research the Playgroup expanded to incorporate breakfast and after school club from Monday to Thursday and holiday club during most school holidays.

The age range has increased to incorporate children aged from 18 months to 11 years and the Playgroup offers up to 46 hours for children aged from 3 years to school age; 29 hours from age 18 months to 3 years and 12 hours for children who attend Belton Primary School each week. Children attend from Thringstone, Whitwick, Coleorton, Newbold, Ashby, Coalville, Diseworth and Loughborough.

Some of the exciting things the children have done in the last couple of years are visiting local stables; a train journey to Sileby and a visit to The Green Place; a bus trip to Loughborough; a coffee morning for older villagers; taken part in Harvest Festivals, Crib Service on Christmas Eve, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day at church; had visits from the local Police and Punchin’ Pandas Martial Arts Club.

Within each session the children are given risks and challenges, so they develop resilience, risk awareness, negotiation skills, critical thinking, as well as developing skills in all 7 areas of the curriculum all through play.

12 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Another initiative that has been introduced is Healthy Tots. This is an award which supports a healthy start to life across themes that include healthy eating, physical activity and emotional health and wellbeing. This is ongoing, and includes the World Book Day Sponsored Walk, Fun Filled Friday Coffee Morning and the up and coming Park and Stride (walk to Playgroup from the edge of the village) as well as children bringing healthy lunchboxes and having healthy meals at Afterschool Club.

So, what is a Playgroup?

A fun place to be and to learn through play for children aged 18 months to 11 years for up to 46 hours per week term time and 24 hours per week during holidays.

If your child loves to play, Belton Playgroup is the place to be!!

Call 07761836983 or visit www.beltonplaygroup.co.uk or like us on Facebook - Belton Preschool Playgroup Belton Playgroup, The Village Hall, School Lane, Belton, LE12 9TU

Hathern Parish Council Next Virtual Meeting Monday 26 October 2020, 19:30 Meeting joining notes can be obtained by either emailing the clerk, or by visiting www.hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Once again, we encourage residents with any queries or comments to log on and ask them during the Public Participation section.

Clerk: Maureen Spencer Tel: 01509 842813 Email: clerk@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk www.hathernparishcouncil.org.uk

We offer a range of garden maintenance services: grass cutting, strimming, weeding, pruning, planting, fence painting, patio cleaning and more. One off and regular contract work.

No job is too small!

Like us on Facebook: @hathernparish Councillor: Roy Dann rdann@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Councillor: Peter Swift pswift@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk

Friendly, reliable and trustworthy service.

Councillor: John Boyes jboyes@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Councillor: Ben Murdoch bmurdoch@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk Councillor: Martin Clayton mclayton@hathernparishcouncil.org.uk

Neil Styring | neil.styring@icloud.com | 07986610720

STRUGGLING FOR STORAGE SPACE IN YOUR HOME? Install a loft ladder and start utilising what could potentially be the largest room in the your home...

01530 261387 - 07515526959 - 07961576020 STARTER PACKAGE DEAL

LOFT STORAGE SOLUTIONS

• 2 Section Aluminium Loft Ladder

At Loft Storage Solutions we respect our customers, that’s why our friendly, local,family run business listens to our clients needs without pushy sales techniques and gimmicks.

We cut the jargon and explain clearly and precisely what can be achieved and always work with customers in a professional & respectful manner.

• Pendant Light & Switch • 50sqft Moisture Resistant Flooring

FROM ONLY

£280 all in which includes FREE fitting in less than a day!

From ladder installations to a complete loft transformation including...

Stairs, Flooring, Electrics, Windows, Insulation & Plaster Finish.

• Loft Ladders • Loft Staircases • Loft Hatches • Loft Boarding • Roof Windows • Top-Up Insulation • Rafter Insulation • Lighting & Sockets • Complete Storage Rooms For information on our latest package deals visit us at...

www.LeicesterLoftStorage.com Alternatively contact us to discuss your requirements and let us tailor make a package to suit your needs & budget.

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 13

Scaresheep Festival Article by Angie Whitmore

We will be holding our annual Scaresheep Festival as normal this year, the only fundraising event for Shepshed Volunteer Centre this year so far.

We are looking for Shepshed households to put together a scarecrow with a sheep theme and display it over the weekend of 10th and 11th October 2020. Entries will be entered into a programme that will be available for that weekend at just £3 per family. Residents will vote for their favourite and the winners will be presented with a trophy. We have 4 categories available including Best Household, Best Business/Organisation and Best School/ Nursery with an additional trophy given by Shepshed Town Council.

smARTsy The Art Of Glass Fusion Article by Ali Groschl

Did you know that there is a thriving glass fusion business in the heart of Ratby? Run by ex-teacher Ali Groschl, family business ‘smARTsy’ began five years ago, when Ali identified a lack of arts and crafts provision in the area.

Initially working with local primary schools in Kirby Muxloe, Groby, and Ratby, Ali ran after school art clubs, as well as setting up a Saturday Art School at her Ratby home. In addition, classes for adults were offered in the evenings. Most new businesses evolve over time, and now smARTsy is best known for offering affordable and friendly glass fusion workshops to a wide range of people including schools, families, scouting and guiding groups, WI groups and corporate organisations.

Recognition of Ali’s entrepreneurial skills came recently when she was chosen to be one of 365 U.K. women to feature in a book SHECAN#365, which ironically arrived during lockdown.

The instant closure of workshops in March and the loss of 50 customers making their own glass every week meant that Ali had to diversify. Since lockdown, Ali has given her time for free to make over 700 rainbow arches for NHS and key workers but an income needed to be made too, so glass fusion kits to make at home are available to hire, plus glass art is available to buy and commissions welcomed.

Ali has also welcomed the chance to focus on developing a new side to the business which focuses on affordable and very personal fused glass memorials. Along with her daughter, May, Ali has perfected the art of incorporating ashes into glass, and so far between them have made some beautifully bespoke pieces that include the ashes of people and of pets.

All small businesses rely on the support of their local community so please take a look at both smARTsy on Facebook, and the sister page Forget Me Not Fused Glass Memorials.

If you are interested in making your own glass items, have a look at the website www.smartsy.co.uk, or email Ali at smartsy@hotmail.co.uk (Please refer to our website www.smartsy.co.uk for dates with spaces.

The symbols represent how many spaces are available.

When you have chosen your date, please either use ‘InstantBook’ on the website to book with PayPal, or email to arrange a bank transfer or cheque.

There is an ‘essential reading’ section that we ask you to read prior to booking please.)

14 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

If you wish to be involved in this great Shepshed event, please complete the enclosed form and pop it through the letterbox along with £3 entry fee to our office, Shepshed Volunteer Centre, 9a Charnwood Road, Shepshed Leics, LE12 9QE or email shepshed@ jscharnwood.org.uk

Roll On Bowls!

Article by Sam Dobson Bowls has always been a great game and with a few minor changes it is easily adapted to comply with social distancing. This is what we are doing at St Margaret's Bowls Club and I can tell you that returning to the relaxed social environment is just what we need after the endless weeks of lockdown. We hear from Bowls England that an increasing number of people are taking up the game and many clubs have seen a real serge in membership since the lifting of lockdown. Now could be a great opportunity to give bowls a try, whatever your age or level of fitness. For further information, please contact me on: 0116 2677372

Bobbin Lace

Article by Susan Marlow Bobbin lace is a craft that is slowly seeing a revival along with other crafts such as knitting and dressmaking. As with most crafts, having someone to help you with the basics is a big help.

Bobbin lace classes are being held at Groby Village Hall, Leicester Road, Groby, LE6 0DQ on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings. They are suitable for beginners and those with some knowledge.

Equipment can be borrowed for a short period to see if bobbin lace is for them and the first week is free as a taster session.

A beginners bobbin lace kit is available for purchase from the tutor as it is difficult to purchase from Leicester shops.

The cost of each session works out at £3.70p per week for 30 weeks.

For further information, email susanmarlow47@btinternet.com or phone 0116 2365789.

SCARESHEEP FESTIVAL REGISTRATION FORM Please complete this registration form. The information supplied will enable you to be added to the programme to participate in the festival. Local residents will come and look at your scaresheep and judge the entries.

The charge is ÂŁ3.00 per entry, to be returned to the volunteer centre with this form.

NAME ........................................................................................................................

ADDRESS ................................................................................................................ .................................................................................................................

Telephone No ...........................................

Email address .....................................

The scare-sheep will be expected to be on display on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th October between 10.00 am and 4.00pm. Programmes and maps will be available from Shepshed Volunteer Centre after the closing date.

There will be a trophy for the household and business judged by the public to have the best scare-sheep on display.

We will issue you a number to be attached to your scare-sheep which will enable the public to vote for you.

Would you be prepared to have a collection box for the event?

YES/NO

CLOSING DATE 20th SEPTEMBER 2020!

Shepshed Volunteer Centre 9a Charnwood Road, Shepshed, Leics LE12 9QE shepshed @jscharnwood.org. uk

Tel: 01509 508040 Reg Charity No: 1087692

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 15

Christine Radford Borough Councillor for Shepshed T: 01509 502974 M: 07796 544817 E: christine_radford@hotmail.com

We hope that this finds you well and safe, we are still dealing with Charnwood matters as your Borough Councillors. Housing problems, (such as trying to move house, unsatisfactory improvement work being carried out on your Council property) problems with neighbours, Anti-Social Behaviour, whether or not you live in a Council property or a privately owned property. We also deal with planning and Environmental Health issues.

Virtual Meetings During the lock down Charnwood have still been holding planning committees virtually and having regular meetings to enable Councillors to be kept up to date with ongoing issues and information.

Below is a list of planning applications and planning applications which have been approved. In some cases approvals are issued within days, hence in some cases they are in both lists.

Planning P/20/1273/2 – Land off Tickow Lane – non material amendment to application P/19/0352/2 to move the garage of plot 450 P/20/0501/2 – Saley Close – Discharge of conditions 3, 4 and 10 of planning permission P/18/2058/2 relating to materials, landscaping and fencing to prevent public access P/20/1179/2 – 60 Iveshead Road – Installation of pitched roof to existing flat roofed side extension P/20/1142/2 – 6 Glenmore Avenue – erection of one detached dwelling (revised scheme P/19/2221/2 refers) P/20/1054/2 – 4 Whightman Close – erection of single storey extension to side/rear of dwelling P/20/0864/2 – 66 Countrymans Way – alterations to ground levels of rear garden including installation of raised patio areas and the erection of timber fencing P/20/1234/2 – land south of A512 Ashby Road East and East of Ingleberry Road – Construction of x2 overhead line pylon towers together with installation of replacement overhead lines (total length 310 m ) with associated downleads from new pylons to landing gantries P/20/1237/2 – Ingleberry Road – the construction of a new 132kv switching station and associated works P/20/13262 – Forest Street – Installation of 11m wooden pole P/20/1432/2 – land south of A512 Ashby Road East and East Ingleberry Road – Consultation from LCC – install and keep installed above ground an electric line of a nominal voltage of 132 kilovolts or more and less than 2 kilometres in length (LCC ref: 2020/1235/2) P/20/1310/2 – 14 Banbury Dr – LCC TPO (Oxley Gardens) oak (T1) crown reduce by up to 3 m in width and 1.5 m in height.

Planning applications approved – with conditions

Mayor visits community hub to mark 10,000 parcels The Mayor of Charnwood has visited the Charnwood Community Action hub to mark the delivery of the 10,000th food parcel.

The Charnwood Community Action campaign is a partnership with the borough council, John Storer Charnwood, The Bridge East Midlands and other voluntary organisations to help support and guide the local community during the coronavirus pandemic.

Since launching in March, Charnwood Community Action has delivered a total of 10,000 food parcels and is currently delivering to around 600 households each week. The team have also been providing a befriending service to residents and signposting people to a range of services.

It is wonderful that volunteers, local community groups and businesses pulling together to offer support to their neighbourhoods and the hub.

For more information about Charnwood Community Action or to let the Council know about someone who does not have any support networks please visit www.charnwoo.gov.uk/cca Update on Leisure Centres Charnwood Borough Council and its leisure partner Fusion have confirmed details for the reopening of Loughborough Leisure Centre and the swimming pools at all three sites.

The health and fitness facilities and swimming pool at Loughborough Leisure Centre will reopen on Monday September 14th.

The swimming pools at South Charnwood and Soar Valley will reopen on Tuesday September 1st.

There will be a phased return for lane, family and club swimming at all three leisure centres.

It comes after the Council’s Cabinet approved a recommendation last week that the Council pays a subsidy of £367,000 to keep the pools and gyms at all three centres open until April 2021. The situation will have to be reviewed again before then.

Other options, included not reopening the pools or not reopening all the leisure centres, had also been considered.

Measures include managing capacity by asking customers to prebook classes and gym sessions, spacing equipment at least two metres apart with social distancing markers and increasing the amount of cleaning.

Pavement Licenses available for local businesses To support local businesses selling food and drink such as cafes, pubs and restaurants, the Council has launched the pavement licence so that businesses can put removable furniture on the highway outside of their premises for customers who are eating and/ or drinking to enjoy.

P/19/0108/2 – 1 Brook St – Proposal to change use from Class A1 (retail) to A5 (hot food Takeaway) – granted with conditions P/20/1118/2 – 31 Springfield Rd – demolition of former industrial building – require submission of details.

Many businesses have had to cease trading for several months, and others have had to significantly modify their operations. A pavement licence can help businesses to maximise the number of customers they can serve, without putting customers and employees at risk.

£1.2 m regeneration plan for the town Plans are shaping up for a £1.2 million regeneration scheme in the town centre. Charnwood Borough Council is working closely with the Town Team with the support of the Town Council.

Businesses can now apply for a free pavement licence via the website www.charnwood.gov.uk/pavement.licence where you can also find the Terms and Conditions that are applicable.

Money for this has come from the LLEP, S106, Charnwood Borough Council and Town Council. It is hoped that draft detailed designs for the scheme will be available later this summer when a formal consultation will be launched to gather people’s views.

Public consultation on NHS rehabilitation centre – at Stanford Hall Nottingham and Nottinghamshire CCG launched an eight week consultation on he opportunity to open a rehabilitation centre in the East Midlands.

This is an exciting investment for Shepshed and the project will see a number of improvements made which will benefit both visitors and local businesses in the area. Your entire Borough. Town and County Cllrs are fully behind this project.

Currently, specialist rehabilitation services are delivered from hospitals across the region, with neurological rehabilitation provided at Linden Lodge at the City Hospital in Nottingham.

16 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

Central Government has provided £70m to build an NHS Rehabilitation Centre (NHSRC) for NHS inpatients on the same site

Afternoon Tea Picnic Week 21st - 27th September Article by Loros

What better way to spend a Summer’s day than with a sophisticated Afternoon Tea, delivered straight to your door?

It’s time to put the Prosecco on ice because the LOROS Afternoon Tea Picnic Week is coming!

Priced from just £20 per person, your picnic will include an array of delicious delicacies such as delicate finger sandwiches, homemade tartlets, scones and mini cakes, all homemade by highly-rated, local Leicester business, Absolutely Cooked. Our Afternoon Teas are perfect to enjoy as a weekend treat for one, to celebrate a special occasion, or you could bulk order and catch up in style with all your best girlfriends!

How will you celebrate LOROS' Afternoon Tea Picnic Week?!

For more information, and to order, visit: loros.co.uk/picnic

Your Home Could Fund Your Retirement Supplement your income

Clear an existing mortgage

Gift an early inheritance

Help the family

Fund a dream purchase

Daniel Sellwood

To find out more and book a To find out more and book a call: Chris CeRER, CeMAP no -obligation appointment, no -obligation meeting, call: MacMahon

07377 034 07776 943 234 017

Loughborough’s CeRER Equity Release Salisbury’s Local or visit: www.responsible.org.uk/danielsellwood Specialist Equity Release Specialist

This is a Lifetime Mortgage which may reduce the value of your estate and may affect your entitlement to means-tested benefits. To understand the features and risks ask for a personalised illustration. Responsible Equity Release is a trading style of Responsible Life Limited. Only if the case completes will Responsible Life Limited charge an advice fee, currently not exceeding £1,490. www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 17

as the Defence and Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Stanford Hall Rehabilitation Estate, near Loughborough.

The new centre will increase bed capacity in the region and provide NHS patients with access to a skilled team of experts working in a purpose-built facility with access to the latest technology and equipment – all under one roof.

Planning for an alternative Christmas and Fair Charnwood Borough Council is looking at alternative ways to celebrate Christmas and make the annual Loughborough Fair in November as it considers cancelling key events due to the pandemic.

Loughborough Fair will not be happening in its usual format and there will be no big rides and instead a ceremony will take place to make the 799th year of the Royal Charter Fair, accompanied by a few children’s rides.

The town hall panto Aladdin will be postponed until 2021 and the Loughborough Christmas lights switch-on event in the Market Place will be cancelled, replacing it with a Christmas Market.

CIPFA Guide – Talking about Tomorrow CIPFA have produced a guide for Councils who are starting to reinvent the way essential local services are delivered while grappling with spending cuts on a scale never before experienced within the public sector. How can councils develop a viable and stable future?

A range of new arrangements and structures is emerging, from combined authorities to integrate care partnerships. Meanwhile, the growth of higher risk investment strategies has prompted concern over whether governance and control mechanisms are robust and fit for purpose. Questions are now being asked about whether councils have the tools they need to weigh up the affordability and long-term sustainability of the options they face.

Booth Wood local nature reserve consultation Residents and visitors to Loughborough’s Booth Wood are being invited to have their say on plans to turn the area into a local nature reserve.

Charnwood Borough Council is working with partners Idverde to protect the wildlife in the beauty-spot and is running a consultation to hear their views on residents and visitors.

The decision to designate the area as a local nature reserve will be made by Natural England.

Booth Wood is a small woodland, designating it as a local nature reserve will allow more plant and animal species to flourish, as they have in Charnwood’s other nature reserves.

Since 2016 Charnwood’s Open Spaces strategy has outlined plans to introduce local nature reserves across the borough, as pockets of green space for residents, visitors and wildlife to enjoy.

Booth Wood provides a pleasant and accessible route to the west of Loughborough, which is particularly important as we look to encourage and raise awareness of the importance of daily exercise.

One licensing scheme is for any house in multiple occupation (HMO) which does not already hold a mandatory licence; the other focuses on privately-rented accommodation within a designated area and aims to improve standards.

Additional Licensing will require HMO landlords not covered by mandatory scheme to apply for a licence. This scheme will cover all HMOs occupied by three or four unrelated persons and buildings converted into self-contained flats where they are occupied by tenants.

The second proposed scheme is Selective Licensing which requires all landlords operating within a designated area to licence their property. The Council is looking initially to introduce this scheme in the Hastings and Lemyngton wards on Loughborough.

There will be a range of conditions attached to each of the proposed licences which will last for five years.

There will be responsible for paying for the licence and any income generated from the fees will only be used to cover the scheme’s running costs.

The online consultations are now open and will run until 23rd October.

For more information about each proposed scheme and to take part in the online consultation visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/psic.

Following the consultations, Cabinet will consider whether to adopt the proposed licensing schemes in December.

Thank you for telling us about your community stars More than 60 individuals, community groups and local businesses have been recognised as community stars for helping their local communities during the coronavirus pandemic.

Charnwood Community Action Stars was launched by the borough council to give people the chance to say a public thank you to those who have made a difference by helping others. Nominees were added to the borough Council’s roll of honour on its website and given a shout out across social media.

People and businesses have shown the true meaning of community spirit by offering free workouts online to keep people active, delivering shopping, collecting prescriptions and simply just checking in on neighbours.

Nominations for Charnwood Community Stars have now closed but people are being encouraged to continue volunteering and supporting their communities.

To find out more about Charnwood Community Action and for information about volunteering in your local community visit www. charnwood.gov.CCA

Booth Wood will sit alongside Stonebow Washlands in Loughborough and Morely Quarry in Shepshed as protected areas for wildlife to flourish and visitors to enjoy.

We do have in Shepshed the Volunteer Centre (508040) and the Shepshed Special Community Bus (650531) who are always looking for volunteers.

To read the five-year management plan for Booth Wood and have your say visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/Boothwood.

Monthly Surgeries We hope things will return to a more normal way of life for us all in the weeks ahead. Unfortunately due to the COVID-19 virus we shall not be able to continue to hold our regular monthly surgery, we can still be contacted either by phone or email.

Consultations launched over licensing privately-rented properties Residents, landlords and businesses in Charnwood are being asked to give their views on two proposed licensing schemes.

The borough Council is proposing to introduce two different licensing schemes for private landlords. The aim is to improve the quality of privately-rented accommodation and reduce its impact on the local community.

18 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

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

advertorial

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

industry leading 25 year guarantee.

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

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

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

Cloudy2Clear Windows...

Service With A Smile!

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 19

Christine Radford County Councillor for Shepshed T: 01509 502974 M: 07796 544817 E: christine_radford@hotmail.com

I do hope that this still finds you in good health as lockdown has eased, and life is slowly getting back to normal. I have held a number of virtual meetings and also managed to visit residents to see problems they have and discuss with them at a safe distance. These can be as varied as flooding, anti social behaviour, speeding traffic, overgrown hedges.

Covid-19 Market Town recovery, temporary social distancing highway measures are continuing to operate successfully following retail opening on 15th June 2020, with monitoring of these temporary measures ongoing and changes being made as required.

Collaborative working with districts authorities and the Police continues, following the opening of hospitality sector on 4th July 2020 and subsequent relaxation of the Leicester extended lockdown restrictions for some businesses on 3rd August 2020. Public nuisance and social distancing related incidents are continuing to be monitored and County are working closely with partners to avoid these types of incidents in the future.

Enquiries and applications under the new Planning and Business Bill are now being received, although numbers have been low. Collaborative processes are in place to ensure the interests of all parties are considered and protected, namely with Highways and he Police as formal consultees.

Any queries can be sent to the ETDSpecialProjects@leics.gov.uk, with concerns raised passed to the relevant district authority for their consideration.

Temporary cycle lanes are currently being constructed on the A6 Loughborough Road and on the A47 Hinckley Road, with works at the Kettering Road Bridge in Market Harborough planned to start week commencing 24th August 2020.

I have asked County to look at improving the cycle route into Loughborough on the A512 and to look and constructing a cycle route between Shepshed and Hathern.

Active Travel Road shows to promote the cycle lanes are planned for September, as part of the Behaviour Change campaign. The Safe and Sustainable team will be running various other promotional campaigns, including radio, on the run up to the events.

Following a significant number of enquiries, with many residents concerned about consultation on the proposals, a Question and Answer section will be uploaded to the webpages. More information is available on www. leicestershire.gov.uk/covid-travel-fund Work is to start soon on the preparation of walking and cycling pipelines projects in readiness for the submission of a bid for a share of the Governments forthcoming £2 billion wider transport funding stream expected to be announced later in 2020.

New Independent Living Accommodation – Brookfield, Great Glen More people across Leicestershire are living more independently following a county council investment in adult care services.

Over the past 12 months, around 90 adults with long-term disabilities have moved into supported living services from residential care.

area and kitchen area. The communal areas offer a place to relax, watch television or to cook in the shared kitchen, giving the residents an opportunity to socialise.

Schemes, like Brookfield, allow tenants to live with greater independence, to have choice and control over where they want to live, who they want to live with and the support they receive.

County found there was a particular demand for a scheme such as Brookfield in the Harborough area as it means families can stay close to their loved ones as they work towards living more independently.

Reach your learning goals this year with GoLearn Classes in yoga, cookery, pottery, British sign language, confidence building and many more are now available from Leicestershire County Council’s adult learning service, Go Learn.

Hundreds of part-time day, evening and weekend courses are now open for enrolment as GoLearn continues it’s commitment to helping learners to achieve their goals, despite the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

A mixture of classroom-based and online courses are available for enrolment, with all learners receiving expert help and support with tutors on hand to provide all the guidance and expertise needed.

The courses County are offering can make a real difference to people’s lives, I found this out last year when I was invited to present certificates and to meet those who had finished their courses. There are courses designed to help learners get back into the job market, improve their maths and English, support learning and improve their health and wellbeing.

County have taken all possible precautions to ensure that classroombased courses are safe for learners and all centres will adhere to Covidsecure procedures. There may be many changes because of the ongoing restrictions, but County will not let them get in the way of people achieving their learning ambitions.

The courses on offer range from one-off two-hour sessions to 15-week or 30week programmes. You can sign up at www.leicestershire.gov.uk/golearn.

For the first time this year, Go Learn is offering the new Essential Digital Skills Qualification, which is aimed at complete IT novices to help them in the digital world.

There are also free courses available for people who are seeking work and looking to gain basic skills, including planning first steps towards employment, increasing confidence, help with job search, CV writing and interview skills, as well as English and maths GCSE. Benefit recipients or on a low income can get up to 70% discount on course fees or may be entitled to attend for free.

The Leicestershire Adult Learning Service can also be contacted on 0800 988 0308 (lines open Monday – Friday 8am-7pm) to find out more about the courses, fees or the option to pay in instalments.

More Council Services back in business All 14 county waste sites are back in business. Nine of the sites will be open five days a week, the same number of days as before the coronavirus pandemic disrupted the service.

Two sites have increased to opening seven days (from five days a week before the pandemic – Whetstone and Mountsorrel) and the remaining sites will be open for 2-3 days each week during the ongoing pandemic.

The county council has been monitoring site usage, and the new opening times reflect demand across the sites.

A shining example of this approach is the council’s investment of over £1m in an independent living scheme at Great Glen and known as Brookfield.

For more information about individual sites opening times, to book an appointment and for further details on recycling and waste in Leicestershire visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/waste or call 0116 305 0001

Following the refurbishment of the former sheltered accommodation, Creative Support, who provide the care and support; have now welcomed the first tenants to the supported living scheme. Over the next few months, around 20 adults, in total, will make Great Glen their home.

The council is also working hard to re-open other services over the coming weeks, including children and family wellbeing centres, day services for older and vulnerable people as well as visitor attractions including Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and market town museums.

In fact I was invited along with the County Councillor for the area, a district Councillor and Parish Cllrs to look around the building. I spoke to some of the new tenants who have settled in very well and enjoying the facilities.

Keep up to date by visiting www.leicestershire.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-10

For a lot of these residents, it will be the first time they have lived out of residential care, the first time they have had more than just a bedroom to themselves.

Brookfield represents a small part of County’s huge commitment to investing in adult social care across the county. County are developing housing for older people, adults with learning and physical disabilities and adults with mental health needs as a priority.

Registrars – Anstey Frith House at County Hall HQ in Glenfield has now reopened alongside the registration office Appointments for births are still being offered at Loughborough, Coalville, Hinckley, Melton Mowbray and Market Harborough People wanting to book an appointment should complete an online form at www.leicestershire.gov.uk/resistrars/birth-resistration/register-a-birth and the council will respond as soon as it can

County are committed to providing the best care that they can across the county. Wellbeing is at the heart of the work they are doing and living in suitable accommodation is a vital part of this.

Beacon Hill cafe Visitors to Beacon Hill Cafe can now experience table service, as well as taking away food and drink, during their stay at the popular Leicestershire beauty spot.

The Brookfield development consists of self-contained flats and communal areas for the tenants. Each flat can be altered to cater for a number of physical needs and has its own private bathroom, bedroom, lounge

In line with the current restrictions, there are limited tables available due to social distancing requirements, and customer details will be taken to comply with track and trace requirements

20 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

We are still operating as normal, but by phone only now.

• Day To Day Journeys • Long & Short Distance • Hospital Journeys • Days Out • Airport Runs • Contract Work • School Runs • Deliveries • Executive Vehicle • 8 Seater Minibuses

Tel: 01509 504488 E: aaaprivatehireshepshedltd@gmail.com W: www.aaaprivatehireshepshed.com

R J Brearley Construction CARPENTRY & JOINERY SPECIALIST GENERAL BUILDING, PLASTERING & TILING All property Maintenance, Alterations & Refurbishment work undertaken • Internal • Kitchens and Bathroom • Doors & Windows • Real Wood & Laminate Floors • Bespoke Joinery Service • Stairs & Balustrading

External • Soft/Hardwood Decking Extension Work • Traditional & truss Roofs • 1st & 2nd Fixes • Garage Conversions

All Commercial & Domestic Work Welcome - Free & Convenient Estimates Given Reliable, Tidy & Professional Service Assured

Richard Brearley - Mob: 07867 554 981

Email: rjbconstruction@live.co.uk - Based in Shepshed

Servicing Installations Repairs Gas Servicing & landlord Check Gas Boiler & Appliance Installations Bathrooms

Free Quotes - No Job Too Small All Plumbing Work Undertaken

Please Call: M: 07762 476985 T: 01509 560253

IK MOWERS

Family run business with 30years experience in repairing and servicing all makes and models of garden machinery. Business is carried out on site at a time and date convenient to the customer.

We also carry out repairs on Sunday’s.

Please call or text 07904 103602 7 days a week 8am-9pm Email ikmowers@yahoo.co.uk and we will get back to you asap.

Wills | Trusts | Lasting Power of Attorney | Estate Planning | Funeral Plans Have You Made Your Will Yet? Is Your Will Up To Date?

For further information or an appointment Please contact Christine Thomas, Pamela Draycott or Clare Cooper Office: 01509 507334 or 08450 568571 Email: chris@tclegalservices.co.uk www.tclegalservices.co.uk | 90 The Meadows Shepshed LE12 9QN

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 21

Customers will also be requested to wear a face covering if they are purchasing takeaway food.

For more details visit www.facebook.com/beaconhillcafe/ Libraries Digital loans from the library service rose dramatically with June 2020 figures showing a rise of 136% on the same month the previous year. The library online offer has been further developed to include or signpost people to more digital content including: • Two Code club sessions helping families and young people learn computer coding skills • A monthly book club for people to discuss their reading with an online community • Virtual Wriggly Readers sessions targeting under 5’s and families • The annual Summer reading challenge moved online, encouraging young readers to maintain the reading habit during the summer months • The reading Well for Health and Wellbeing offer has continued to guide people to free resources. One of the reading lists focuses on mental health and wellbeing https://reading-well.org.uk/books-on-prescription/ mental-health • Volunteer partners have moved some of their shared reading activities online. These sessions offer therapeutic reading activity for those emerging from their experience of mental health issues. www. leicestershiresharedreading.org/ • A virtual work club has been set up to assist people with job searching and job applications.

on with the proposals having taking comments into consideration with additional double yellow lines. Having said that to assist with the one way part of the scheme it is proposed to extend the buildout to make a narrowing, however following recent events and the unforeseen additional burden on budgets there is some uncertainty whether this can now be funded. Consequently County need to do a costing for this work before deciding if it can go ahead, this could have implications as to whether the one way is implemented.

County have also arranged for an estimate to be done for the widening of the access road onto Charnwood Road, this was something that was mentioned by a few of the businesses and whilst County would not fund it, if the businesses were prepared to do so, this is something County would consider.

Residents Issues Residents who live on the Bluebell estate who have contacted me regarding the issue of bikes riding around their roads and the off road muddy humps which have been built off of the Jubilee Walks. Together with the police a meeting has been arranged to meet with the estate management company (Savills) and an officer from Natural England as the site is an SSSI site.

Waste land in Hall Croft where the old cafe and fabric centre used to stand, since it has been demolished is looking a mess. I am working with an officer at Charnwood on the regeneration team to ascertain what the owner intends to do with the site.

All Council funded libraries are now offering a Click and Collect library service as well as some libraries that are managed by local communities.

Brick Bus Shelter, Ashby Road opposite Brick Kiln Lane, this is not the responsibility of County but the Town Council, it was knocked down by a bus and is currently in the hands of the insurance company who require at least 3 quotes before work can be agreed.

As of the 10th August, all 16 Council funded libraries, of which Shepshed is one, are offering managed access to browsing in the library. Customers can book online or telephone to book a slot. On entering, people will be asked to record their contact details for test and trace purposes. Hand sanitiser will also be provided for people to use on entry. All returned books will be placed in quarantine for 72 hours before being returned to shelves.

The road works at the bottom of Iveshead Road should have been opened by the time you are reading this, but ongoing works will still be carrying on for a further 12 weeks. A letter has gone out to residents in the area keeping them informed.

The library at Gartree Prison was closed and resources put on the wings for prisoners to access and staff supported delivery through provision of quizzes and competitions.

Museums and Heritage The planned summer exhibition for Charnwood Museum (DoYouSeeWhatIsee?) was transformed into an online exhibition, allowing nine months of co-produced work by over 100 people from targeted groups (Homeless, Black and Minority Ethnic Communities, learning difficulties, vulnerable young, migrant communities), to be showcased.

Record Office The two most popular family history services, Ancestry and Find My Past have been made available for library and Record Office customers to access from home instead of on site therefore extending its reach beyond the Record Office.

Museums, Heritage sites and the Record Office are planning managed access to venues from early September. This is to allow remedial collections and building preparation to take place before opening.

The Collections and Conservation Team are supporting the Strategic Property redevelopment of Snibston Colliery Park, around the development of a Heritage trail and relocation of material on site.

Advance Notice of a Temporary Regulation Order (TTRO) A TTRO is to be made at the following location, Spring Lane. The purpose of the TTRO is to allow British Telecoms to safely undertake Pole Testing works. The TTRO will incorporate a temporary road closure.

The duration of the restriction is not anticipated to exceed a period of 1 day commencing on 1st October 2020.

A TTRO is to be made at the following location on Hathern Road. The purpose of the TTRO is to allow Danaher and Walsh (Civil engineering) Ltd to safely undertake junction improvement works in the connection with the Persimmon Homes development. The TTRO will incorporate a temporary road closure.

The duration of the restriction is not anticipated to exceed a period of 3 days commencing on the 19th October 2020.

A TTRO is to be made for the following location, Loughborough Road. The purpose of the TTRO is to allow Leicestershire County Council to safely undertake works to install a new Gully in the carriageway. The TTRO will incorporate a temporary road closure.

The duration of the restriction is not anticipated to exceed a period of 3 days (09.00 till 15.00 each day) commencing on the 19th October.

A TTRO is to be made for the following location: Charley Road, Charley/ Shepshed; Oaks Road from 21st – 27th October between 07.00 to 18.00.

Works are scheduled to take place Monday to Fridays only. The purpose of the TTRO is to allow LCC to safely facilitate water retexturing.

Gelders Hall Road Following the Consultations County have decided that they will carry

22 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

If you have concerns about these works, please call 07779 417695 or you can email A512improvements@morgansindall.com.

I keep being asked about the speeding on Tickow Lane between Anson Road and the new part of Tickow Lane where there is a 30 mph limit. I have asked County to look and making this section 30 mph and putting in speed humps and shall keep asking until something is done before somebody is seriously injured especially where the right of way crosses Tickow Lane.

Police As part of the local policing team across Charnwood they are keen to hear from any community groups that would like a crime prevention chat or a scheduled opportunity to speak with their dedicated local officers.

By having such interactions it gives you an opportunity to share your concerns or simply hear what your local team do in YOUR community.

The police already attend parish Council meetings, neighbourhood watch groups amongst others but they are keen to get out to more places.

If you run a karate club, football team, sewing club or anything else please reply to this alert and they will have an officer from their team contact you direct to arrange something.

Contact Sgt Chris Wharton on Christopher.Wharton@leicestershire.pnn. police.uk Disappointed Within days of the Town Council having new keep fit kit equipment erected in the Glenmore Park it was vandalised. This equipment was well received by residents and was beginning to be used. I dare not put into words what I would do with whoever did this if I caught them. These costs the rate payers of Shepshed money to get it repaired.

I am also a Town Councillor and in fact Chairman of the committee who decided for this to be purchased, and it is very disheartening when this happens.

The vandalism is on the increase, the public toilets have been set alight, a bench in the park broken, hedge and trees in the park set fire. This all costs rate payers money to repair.

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 due to the lock down I will not be able to have my regular monthly Surgery on the FIRST Saturday of the month in the Town Council Offices, 47a Charnwood Road.

Local family run business. Our services include installations, removals, maintenance and problem solving.

Radiators Taps Toilet systems Valves Heating pumps Pipes/leaks Power Flushout Specialist Plus many other plumbing jobs, enquiries welcome!

For enquiries Tel: 01530 589661 Engineer Mobile: 07837209415

Email: srh.plumbing@yahoo.co.uk

Paul’s Decorating Service Painting & papering

Family run business

Competitive prices

Reliable and conscientious

Fully insured

Great eye for detail!

Contact Paul Spence now:

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

INSTALLER SAFE • EFFICIENT • PROFESSIONAL

• RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CLEANING • FULLY INSURED • FRIENDLY LOCAL COMPANY

Using Pure Water, We Clean: Gutters and Fascias, Barge Boards, Windows & Conservatories, PV Panels

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

JET WASHING - PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS To make your booking or for more information, please call Kevin O’Brien:

T: 01530 510833 - M: 07572122236 - www.5starguttercleaning.co.uk 5 Star Gutter Cleaning Services Ltd

www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 23

Looking for a new home in Shepshed this Autumn?...

... let’s forage together.

01509 600610 sinclairestateagents.co.uk 9 Bullring, Shepshed, LE12 9PZ