June 2020 - Your Local Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston, Newtown Linford, Woodhouse & Woodhouse Eaves

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THANK YOU AND ALL KEY WORKERS Please be reassured that Your Local and the businesses advertising within our magazine are following strict social distancing and sanitary measures where possible. We would like to kindly ask that all homeowners do the same, as working together we can help reduce the spread of the virus. Stay safe!

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y c n e g r e m E appeal

Please help Marie Curie care for dying people at this unprecedented time of need.

At this time of national emergency, Marie Curie Nurses and frontline staff are needed more than ever as the NHS is put under ever greater strain. But our fundraising activities are grinding to a halt and we’re facing a devastating loss of funds.

Donate to our urgent appeal today mariecurie.org.uk/donate

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Articles

elcome to Junes ‘Bounce Back' edition of ‘Your Local’ magazine, firstly I hope you have all managed to stay safe and well in these very difficult times. There were no editions in April or May due to the Governments ‘Lockdown’ and the safety of our distributors.

Inside the magazine you will find lots of very helpful articles and advise in dealing with the latest Covid-19 situation, along with business advise from Charnwood Borough Council and your local Council and Councillors.

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Unfortunately many events planned for the summer months have been cancelled and many of the local groups and societies are closed until further notice, but hopefully in the coming months we will see a return to them in some form. Please keep sending in any news you have as its a great way to keep the community updated.

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The businesses that are advertised within this magazine are duty bound to follow the Governments guidelines regarding working safely, social distancing and hygiene etc. relevant to their business type. They will need some extra help right now so please do continue to use and support them as life gets back to some kind of normality.

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Buying locally keeps money in the community and keeps businesses alive so please continue to support them even more during this ‘Bounce Back’ period.

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Book Of Thanks For Our NHS, Care Workers And Key Workers Article by Charnwood Borough Council

An online book of thanks has been launched so Charnwood residents can pay tribute to the NHS, care workers and key workers who are on the frontline in the battle against coronavirus.

The online book is being co-ordinated by Charnwood Borough Council to help residents in the borough show and record their support for people who are putting themselves at risk to save lives, protect others and keep critical services running.

Not got a QR scanner or not working?

Use this link: https://issuu.com/norwoodpress

The book is available via the Council website and the comments will be compiled, collated and shared with NHS colleagues and other agencies later in the year.

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

They will also be shared on the Council’s website and social media channels.

Cllr Jonathan Morgan, Leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: “We owe so much to our NHS and it is heart-breaking to know that people are losing their lives as they battle to save others. Many others are placing themselves at great risk to care for the vulnerable or deliver services which are critical to our daily lives. As a nation we will be forever grateful to them. This Book of Thanks is an opportunity for the people of Charnwood to further demonstrate their support. It is a small gesture of our appreciation and I would encourage people to leave a comment and help make sure the NHS, care workers and key workers know how much the people of Charnwood appreciate them.”

The online book can be found on the Council website www.charnwood.gov.uk/forevergrateful People can also upload pictures if they wish.

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Charnwood Businesses Claim MuchNeeded Government Grants Article by Charnwood Borough Council Charnwood Borough Council has distributed more than 90% of government funding designed to support businesses through the Coronavirus pandemic.

So far 2,442 businesses have received grants totalling £29.46 million since the funding was made available in April.

The council has been working tirelessly to ensure eligible businesses receive the much-needed funding as quickly as possible.

Cllr Tom Barkley, deputy leader and lead member for finance and property services, said: “Staff across the council are working incredibly hard to pay as much money as possible to businesses in need of support. Knowing we have been able to help so many businesses is heartening, but we will continue to look at further ways to help companies across the borough to work through these difficult times.”

Grants of £10,000 and £25,000 have been distributed to eligible businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. Businesses in receipt of business rate discounts have also received funding.

Organisations yet to apply should visit the council’s website and complete the short online application form.

The government recently announced a further scheme to support businesses who have yet to benefit from grants.

A fund of £1.6 million is available in Charnwood.

Although broad guidelines were issued by the government, councils have some discretion to develop eligibility criteria, work continues to produce these in Charnwood and it is hoped funds will be available in June.

For further information and support for businesses visit www.charnwood.gov. uk/coronavirus_business_support

The council was allocated a funding pot of £32 million to support local businesses, with eligibility criteria set by the government.

Council Offers £5 Gesture Of Goodwill For Disrupted Waste Service Article by Charnwood Borough Council Garden waste customers across Charnwood are being offered £5 off their next subscription as a gesture of goodwill.

Charnwood Borough Council is offering the reduction after collections were disrupted because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Any Charnwood resident who had an active garden waste bin subscription in April 2020 we will receive a £5 discount on their next subscription.

Cllr Leigh Harper-Davies, lead member of contracts, said: “Once again, we would like to sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused by the loss of service. Although the terms and conditions for waste collections mean we do not have to offer compensation for service disruptions, we are offering this £5 as a gesture of goodwill because of these difficult times. We would also like to thank customers for being understanding and supportive of our

recycling and refuse workers who have themselves been fantastic throughout the pandemic."

The council’s garden waste service, which costs £40 per bin each year, was paused on March 23 for a month, a limited service was re-introduced on April 20.

The discount will be applied automatically for people who pay by direct debit when their subscription is due for renewal. People who pay by invoice will see the discount included.

The Council originally though customers affected by the disruption would have an extension to their subscription. However, it has become clear that extending permits would involve significant work take longer to implement than the current proposal.

For further information visit www. charnwood.gov.uk/gw_gesture.

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COVID-19 UPDATE - During this current situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, Kornerstone Legal Services are fully committed to ensuring all customers can still access our usual services as normal.

We fully insured and regulated will writing service and remain fully available for appointments and will do all the work for you by phone or video call. We have not ceased business travel and 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.

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Deborah Taylor Borough Councillor for Anstey

T: 0116 2350126 E: cllr.deborah.taylor@charnwood.gov.uk Welcome back to our Borough Council reports. Our thanks go to the ‘Your Local’ team for getting back to work as quickly and as safely as they can to enable this magazine to go back into print. This enables us to give out important information to all our residents, especially those residents who do not follow social media. We post information on our Facebook pages that is of interest or helpful for residents.

Our thoughts are with families who have lost loved ones and those who have recovered from the virus or who have family members recovering. Please remember to help each other in whatever way that you can. This virus has brought communities together and we have enjoyed hearing all the noise from across the village when we go outside to clap for all our carers at 8pm on a Thursday night.

We are both working from home at the moment, as the Southfields Offices remain closed, but we have remained available to support residents during this lockdown period. Many of the Council meetings have been cancelled as the officers have had to concentrate on supporting our residents and maintaining essential services.

As the lockdown is slowly being eased, we are beginning to bring some of those meetings back, but all council meetings are being held virtually at the moment, with the recordings being published online with a facility to watch live (links on the Charnwood Borough Council website: https://www.charnwood.gov.uk/). Since we have ‘gone online’, we have had many more people watching the meetings and it is good to see that people have an interest in what the Council is doing.

We will take this opportunity below, to advise residents’ as to how and what services are running at the moment and the Council’s response to the Coronavirus.

CORONAVIRUS The COVID-19 pandemic has had, and continues to have, a major adverse impact on individuals, families, social networks, businesses and the wider economy on a global basis. The Council has published a report explaining how they intend to lead and support their communities and businesses through the crisis and help them towards a sustainable recovery. The Council itself has been significantly affected by the pandemic and further information has been published to outline the approach by which the Council will adapt its ways of working to engage with customers and deliver services in what has been described as the ‘new normal’. The full report can be found in the Cabinet papers: https://charnwood. moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=137&MId=300 The COVID-19 pandemic has had major adverse impacts on communities. Not only the social isolation, which has been incredibly hard for some people, but there has been a greater burden of care required for those deemed extremely vulnerable.

Increased unemployment and the associated loss of income arising from the shock to the economy have been felt by many, for some this has been extreme. These impacts may begin to manifest through, for example, increased incidences of homelessness, domestic violence and mental health concerns.

Staff and services have adapted well to new ways of working and innovative and technological advances have been made.

Several staff have been redeployed to alternative service areas as demand has required. The pandemic has given rise to additional costs associated with caring for the vulnerable, whilst at the same time many sources of income have either all but disappeared, for example, from car parking, leisure centres and the Town Hall.

In the coming months, it is likely that the Council’s priorities and ways of working will need to adapt to enable the Council to

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Paul Baines

Borough Councillor for Anstey

T: 07977 178869 E: cllr.paul.baines@charnwood.gov.uk

maximise recovery support to communities and businesses in the face of additional financial constraints, to accelerate residents’ ability to engage on-line, rather than via face to face contact, and to regularise the increase in virtual working that is fast becoming the new standard way of working, for many of us.

SERVICE UPDATES • Loughborough Town Hall remains closed and people who have tickets for shows booked will be contacted by the box office • Country parks and local parks are open, but playgrounds remain closed • Leisure Centres remain closed • Charnwood Museum remains closed CHARNWOOD COMMUNITY ACTION CAMPAIGN As the virus started to spread, the Council pledged £100,000 of funding to set up the Charnwood Community Action campaign. The co-ordination of community support continues via our Charnwood Community Action campaign. If anyone needs support or help, please go to www.charnwood.gov.uk/CCA. Since launching, over 3,000 food parcels have been delivered to members of the community experiencing financial difficulties and over 250 vulnerable residents without any support networks are receiving regular befriending calls to check how they are.

Borough councillors have committed a further £26,000 to support the Charnwood Community Action campaign. All 52 councillors are allocated up to £1,000 a year to give to community groups or projects in their ward each year but have decided to put half the funding towards the community scheme which is being run in partnership with John Storer Charnwood. We were very happy to support this action.

Age UK has also launched a helpline to offer practical and emotional support to those over 70 years of age, especially those who are self-isolating and live alone. To contact the helpline please call 0116 299 2239.

RESIDENTS A letter was sent to all council tenants providing guidance on repairs and rent payments. If any tenants need support, please do get in touch with either of us, so we can assist you. A further letter was also sent to all households with information and where to seek help and support. Again, if anyone needs support, please get in touch with either of us.

GARDEN WASTE The Council is continuing to operate a limited garden waste service as they focus resources on maintaining recycling and refuse collections for borough homes. Our contractors, Serco, are also working with reduced staff, but are committed to ensuring our black bins and recycling are emptied on a two-week cycle.

The garden waste service was temporarily suspended and was resumed on the 20th April and customers’ garden waste bins are now being emptied on a four-week cycle. The first cycle has been completed and they are now onto the next cycle which began on the 18th May. Anstey is next due to be collected on the week commencing 8th June 2020. Please remember to have your bins out by 6am on the Monday morning and leave them out until they are emptied.

Garden waste customers across Charnwood are being offered £5 off their next subscription as a gesture of goodwill if they had an active garden waste bin subscription in April 2020.

BULKY WASTE Residents in Charnwood have been able to book bulky waste collections from Tuesday 5th May as this service was suspended

for a time. The first collections began on Monday 11th May. A limited number of bookings will be taken each week to ensure the Council’s waste partners, Serco, can continue to focus resources on refuse, recycling and garden waste collections. Bookings will be taken on a first come first served basis and residents can book collections on the Council’s website: www.charnwood.gov.uk or by calling 01509 634563.

BUSINESS GRANTS Charnwood continues to pay business grants from the government funding it was allocated and at the time of writing, Charnwood had paid out £15.7 million in grants to over half of the 2,700 eligible businesses. We were delighted when one of our local businesses, Sharon from the Nook Corner Coffee Shop, was featured in the press release after receiving her grant, enabling her to keep her business ticking over until she can reopen again.

CONSTRUCTION SITES This is particularly important for Anstey residents as we have a few construction sites ongoing in the village. As part of the Government’s bid to restart the economy, it was recently announced that construction sites in England can apply to temporarily extend their operating hours. Developers will be able to request to extend construction working hours to 9pm Monday to Saturday, until the 13 May 2021.

CHARNWOOD COMMUNITY ACTION STARS Residents in Charnwood are being encouraged to recognise local stars who have been helping communities during the coronavirus pandemic.

As part of Charnwood Community Action, people are being encouraged to give public thanks to those who are helping others.

This could be for fetching shopping, prescriptions, checking on neighbours with phone calls, or for getting involved in one of the many community groups which have been formed to help their fellow neighbours.

To tell the Council about your Charnwood Community Action Stars, all you need to do is complete a simple online form, explaining who they are and what they’ve done. All the details can be found here: https://www.charnwood.gov.uk/news/2020/04/15/tell_us_ about_your_community_stars RECOVERY Preparations are underway to create safe and welcoming shopping areas in towns and villages across Charnwood. Charnwood Borough Council is working hard with local businesses and Love Loughborough to help high streets get ready to trade safely as lockdown restrictions continue to ease.

The Council will be using floor graphics where pavements are sufficiently wide, signage and barriers in Loughborough town centre to help visitors and businesses adhere to social distancing guidance, particularly around queueing. It is also supporting high streets and shopping areas across the borough by installing floor graphics where appropriate and Love Loughborough will be able to advise businesses on how to protect customers and employees inside their premises. Meanwhile, Loughborough Market prepares to reopen with a limited number of stalls. Consequently, the Council has updated its website with information and advice for traders and shoppers. Please visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/cvbusiness.

As we start to move further into the recovery stage and more Council meetings are reinstated, we will be able to bring you further updates. For the time being, please stay safe and follow the guidelines issues by Government to ensure we avoid a second wave and continue to bring the infection rate down. This means: • Stay at home as much as possible • Work from home if you can • Limit contact with other people • Keep your distance if you go out (2 metres apart where possible) • Wash your hands regularly • Self-isolate if you or anyone in your household has symptoms.

If you have any issues or concerns, we are here to help.

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David Snartt Borough Councillor for Forest Bradgate

T: 01530 244804 - E: cllr.david.snartt@charnwood.gov.uk THANK YOU It is good to be able to report to you again through ‘Your Local’ magazine.

I would like this opportunity to add my personal thanks to all the volunteers who have come forward to help within the communities I represent on Charnwood Borough Council. Especially helping the elderly and most vulnerable during these most challenging and difficult times. I also thank the Parish Councils and the Woodhouse Good Neighbour Scheme for their contribution.

If you need up to date information or help during the coronavirus pandemic, please refer to the Charnwood Borough Council website.

VISITORS TO BRADGATE Since I was alerted to the re-opening of Bradgate Park, I have been corresponding with the Councils and Police about having Street Wardens visiting the village and measures that could be put in place since the easing of lockdown restrictions by the Government.

In my view, there will be more people visiting Bradgate in the short term, many likely not taking holidays this year. Therefore, more robust plans need to be in place not only for highway safety but for the safety of local residents through this critical phase of the pandemic. There have been concerns raised by residents about the numbers of people in groups who are visiting Bradgate and the impact this will have on the Newtown Linford Parish. On several occasions the main Bradgate car park has been full, leading to many vehicles parking on the village streets.

I understand from information supplied, visits will be made by Street Wardens to enforce the parking restrictions, especially to deal with vehicles parked on double yellow lines. I am also grateful to the Police who are also committed to extra visits to the area to advise people on the current social distancing rules.

I would be grateful for any information about any on-going vehicle parking issues that occur during these challenging times. Contact me by e-mail, cllr.david.snartt@charnwood.gov.uk or telephone 01530 244804.

GARDEN WASTE (BROWN BIN) I am hopeful that your garden waste brown bin was emptied during the week commencing 11th May in Newtown Linford, and for the second time week commencing 18th May in the Woodhouse Parish.

The service will continue to operate on a reduced basis. It is not the usual service as the Council are still having to focus resources on the refuse and recycling service.

The next collection for Newtown Linford will be week commencing Monday 8th June. Please make sure your brown bins are out by 6.00am on Monday 8th June. The Council will endeavour to empty the bins as soon as possible, but it may take until Friday of that week. Please leave your bins out until emptied. Charnwood Borough Council are reviewing the service regularly and will restore a full service as soon as possible. For more information on the next collections visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/gwr

BULKY WASTE COLLECTIONS Residents are again able to book bulky waste collections.

Charnwood Borough Council is resuming this service after it was suspended due to staff shortages caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

A limited number of bookings will be taken each week to ensure the Council’s waste partners Serco can continue to focus resources on refuse, recycling and garden waste collections.

Bookings will be taken on a first come, first served basis and residents can book collections on the Council’s website or by calling 01509 634563. The Council would like to thank residents for their patience and continued support of its’ refuse crews. For more information about bulky waste collections please visit www. charnwood.gov.uk/special_collections NATIONAL LOTTERY SUPPORT I have received information about Charnwood Forest being awarded a National Lottery Heritage Fund Grant of £2,767,300. This unique landscape is one of the most significant in the East Midlands, but very few people are aware of its value, both locally and internationally. The landscape is currently at risk and this grant will support new projects to protect and enhance it.

The grant will fund the Charnwood Forest Landscape Partnership Scheme. This five year scheme will promote awareness and understanding of the importance of Charnwood Forest through geological conservation, habitat restoration, improvements to connections between sites for visitors, creating innovative interpretation, outdoor learning opportunities for young people and adults and a five-year programme of cultural and heritage activities and events. More information is available on Charnwood Borough Council website.

ALAN SIDDONS It was with great sadness that I received the news of the passing of Alan Siddons. During my seventeen years on the Borough Council, I know he contributed so much to the wellbeing of the Woodhouse Parish. I met Alan for the first time at a Parish Council meeting and soon became aware of his commitment to making a difference for all the residents of the Parish. His knowledge of the villages gave him a remarkable insight when making decisions that would benefit the Parish. I recall he always sat in the same position at Parish Council meetings, I did miss his contributions on his retirement. My condolences to his wife Daphne and family.

If you need to contact me on any issues, please write to 10 Groby Lane, Newtown Linford, Leicester. LE6 0HH e-mail cllr.david. snartt@charnwood.gov.uk or telephone 01530 244804.

IK MOWERS

GESTURE OF GOOD WILL Garden waste customers across Charnwood Borough are being offered £5 off their next subscription as a gesture of good will.

Charnwood Borough Council are offering the reduction after collections were disrupted because of the coronavirus pandemic.

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.

Any Charnwood resident who has an active garden waste bin subscription in April 2020 will receive a £5 discount on their next subscription. The discount will be applied automatically for people who pay by direct debit when their subscription is due for renewal.

People who pay by invoice will see the discount included. For further information visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/gw_gesture

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.

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• Keyholder Alarm Response • Mobile Patrols • Locking & Unlocking Of Property • Fire Alarm Test • Void Property Inspections • Lone Worker Emergency Response • Tenant Response For Landlords/Agents

ARE NOW LIVING IN ANSTEY! New Business GTS Security Services Ltd acquired offices on the Leicester Road in April and have now settled into the village, albeit a very quiet village at the minute due to Covid 19 and the subsequent lockdown.

Owners of the business Gary Sheffield, Tom Conlan and Steve Smith said “We are thrilled to have our head office in Anstey, it’s a beautiful village and ideally situated for our services in Leicestershire.

We know the village being local chaps and Tom lived in Anstey for a short while back in 2003, Gary had family in Anstey from 1970 until 2000. We would like to thank our neighbours Mike and Tony, also Garrett-Long Solicitors who have been looking after us. We look forward to the village coming back to normal so we may try the cuisine and local brew. Although our services are listed above, we have over 50 years combined experience in our industry in all areas and have many contacts such as Alarm systems, CCTV, Access controls, etc. If anyone would like any help relating to security, then please give us a call we maybe able to help or point you in the right direction”

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Deborah Taylor County Councillor for Bradgate Division

T: 0116 2350126 - E: deborah.taylor@leics.gov.uk It’s great to be back! My thanks go to the team at ‘Your Local’ for making arrangements for the safe return of their staff to restart the printing and distribution of this magazine. This is one of the ways that I can get important information out to residents.

Most of this report will cover the arrangements in place by the County Council and how we are managing services during this pandemic.

I would firstly like to mention all our key workers and the health and care staff that have continued to work and keep us safe during the Coronavirus pandemic. My heart goes out to those families that have suffered the loss of a loved one and for those people that have been through the illness themselves or have loved ones who have been affected by this virus. I know firsthand what this feels like as my 99-year-old mother-in-law was hospitalised with COVID-19 and pneumonia. She is now out of hospital on the road to recovery, but it was an incredibly stressful 3 weeks for us whilst she battled this horrible virus.

I have been continuing to work full time since the start of the lockdown in March to support my residents, support the council and offer support within my role as Cabinet Support Member for Children and Families. I have been working from home as the council offices have been closed. I have now got to grips with virtual meetings and have been joining meetings via Skype, Microsoft Teams and Zoom. I have also been joining my Parish Council’s meetings online when I have been able to.

I have been responding to individual residents and signposting them to the support they have needed while also making welfare calls to some of our most vulnerable residents.

have been a total of 349 deaths in Leicestershire. Of these total deaths involving COVID-19 in Leicestershire, 214 (61%) were in hospital and 112 (32%) were in care homes.

ECONOMIC IMPACT The local economic impact is starting to show in official figures. On the 19th May, the ONS published unemployment data which shows that Leicestershire has seen more than 1,000 additional Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) claimants in April 2020, more than doubling the number in March (710). Combined JSA and Universal Credit Claimant figures have also roughly doubled since March, from 7,100 in Leicestershire to 14,800.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) PPE has caused serious concerns over the past few weeks, with peaks and troughs. We are now in a stable state with supplies available for those who need them. As of 18th May 2020, there were 2 residential homes out of 169 reporting PPE issues and no domiciliary providers are now reporting PPE issues. This will continue to be high on the agenda and a close eye is being kept on stock levels. More than 20,000 facemasks have been donated to Leicestershire by the Sichuan Provincial People's Government, to help bolster supplies for key workers in the County Council and other critical services across the county. The partnership between Leicestershire and Sichuan (a Chinese province of 81 million people) is currently in its 32nd year and has seen the two regions support each other in business, tourism and in times of need.

COVID-19 TESTING Everyone is now able to be tested, if they are showing symptoms.

You can be tested at a test centre or by a home testing kit. There is further information on testing on the Gov.uk and NHS websites.

There have been many virtual meetings of the County Council’s Cabinet that I have been involved in, discussing the council’s response to the pandemic. We have sought to ensure that as many council services are maintained as possible, supporting vulnerable residents and ensuring the health and wellbeing of our staff, where the majority have had to alter how they work, mostly from home.

There have been huge changes within the Children and Families Department. We have worked closely with schools to ensure they to remain open for key workers’ children and our most vulnerable children in the county. We are now working with schools to enable them to work towards welcoming more children back into school when it is safe for them to do so, from 1st June as per the Department for Education guidance.

SHIELDING AND PROTECTING VULNERABLE PEOPLE To date, 13,233 people on the Shielded List in Leicestershire have registered for support. Over 3,800 Government food parcels are delivered each week. 233 County Council emergency food parcels have been delivered since the beginning of the pandemic lockdown.

Our social workers have also had to find new ways to stay in contact with the families they are working with, to make sure they are coping during lockdown and ensure that all our children are safe and protected.

Step two sets out the Government’s wish that local authorities and schools should prepare to begin to open for more children, at the earliest, from 1st June. This will be done in phases with Early Years, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6, in smaller groups. Schools are also being asked to prepare to begin some face to face contact for years 10 and 12 alongside home learning.

CORONAVIRUS I will share some of the data we have about the local area and list how our services are running and some of the plans moving forward as we move from this pandemic crisis and start to begin to look towards recovery. There is no doubt that this will be an incredibly difficult journey and services will look a lot different from how they looked before lockdown. The Council has also got to relook at their finances. Funding, rightly so, has been given to supporting the response to the Coronavirus. The Council has also lost a lot of income from the closure of some activities and this adds to the difficult task of balancing the Council’s books.

HEALTH POSITION Across Leicestershire there have been 1,152 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as at 18th May 2020 with 260 cases within Charnwood.

Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirm there

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SERVICE UPDATES SCHOOLS REOPENING The Government has now set out plans for reopening schools.

Step one sets out its request for schools to focus on increasing the number of children who are deemed vulnerable attending school.

If you are worried about sending your children back to school currently, I urge you to discuss this with their school. However, parents will not be fined for any non-attendance at this time.

CHILDREN’S SOCIAL CARE Staff across the Children and Family Services Department are continuing to support children across Leicestershire and services to the most vulnerable children are continuing, that is children in care and care leavers who are on a child in need plan, a child protection plan, or open to the children and family wellbeing service.

RECYCLING AND HOUSEHOLD WASTE SITES (RHWS) Seven of the County’s recycling and household waste sites were reopened to the public on Monday 18th May. In line with

Government guidance, residents were asked to take waste to these sites only if it presented a risk to health or the environment if it continued to be stored at their home. No trailers are allowed on site. The new system operating at the RHWS at Barwell, Lount, Market Harborough, Melton Mowbray, Mountsorrel, Oadby, and Whetstone also requires a pre-booked time slot to visit a site and use of the RHWS is limited to County residents. To book a slot, please visit: https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/environment-andplanning/waste-and-recycling/book-a-waste-site-appointment

exercise and come back to Bradgate Park when it is not so busy.

LOCAL TRANSPORT RESTART On 9th May, the Secretary of State for Transport announced a £250m emergency Active Travel Fund to allow local highway authorities to lead the overall transport planning for their areas in collaboration with a range of partners. A key emphasis will be the provision of more space for walking and cycling, both to shift capacity from public transport and to enable social distancing. It is expected this funding will deliver measures such as pop-up bike lanes, widened pavements and cycle and bus only corridors.

As ever, if anyone needs any further information or support during this difficult time, please do get in touch.

I give my thanks to Cllr Snartt, Charnwood Police Commander Inspector Botte and his team, Newtown Linford Parish Council, Charnwood Borough Council and Leicestershire County Council Highways Department for working together with me, to try and find a temporary solution to these issues. Bradgate Park Trust are in the process of making changes to their car parking policy, but this has been delayed due to the coronavirus.

Stay safe and look after each other.

If you have any issues or concerns, I’m here to help.

Tel: 0116 236 4875

REGULATORY SERVICES The registration of births remains suspended and discussions are ongoing with the General Register Office in relation to the resumption of birth registrations and small marriage /civil partnerships ceremonies (likely to be Register Office only) from 1st June.

The Trading Standards Service continues to focus on reducing the threat of COVID-19 scams and promoting vigilance, including via the Council’s social media and community radio stations.

LEICESTERSHIRE COMMUNITIES FUND 2020 The Cabinet at its meeting on 24th March agreed to set up a £1m fund to support the voluntary and community sector (VCS). This was subsequently increased to £1.5m in view of the high number of applicants. A total of £1,479,138 was allocated to 159 voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations with 68 awards in full and 91 awards in part. Over £195,000 went to projects and organisations operating within Charnwood.

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RECOVERY THEMES Infrastructure: Recovery of the infrastructure of the Council could take place relatively quickly but will be managed carefully to avoid a complete return to the ‘business of before’. The recovery process will provide an opportunity to redefine the Council’s ways of working as organisational capacity has been increased or reshaped.

Economic Recovery: This will take place over a much longer period and will impact on the Council’s capacity and priorities significantly. To return to the previous levels of growth and business confidence, it could take many months, if not years. There will be a lot of work to do very quickly and then some sustained activity.

Activity will be spread across: business survival, business recovery and business growth.

BRADGATE PARK Bradgate Park reopened to the public on 13th May 2020, following the changes announced by the Government on Sunday 10th May. The Public Rights of Way have remained open, but the wider park was closed, along with all the facilities. The toilets are now open but with limited access to enable social distancing.

With the good weather we have enjoyed, the park has been very busy since it reopened. There is reduced capacity for parking, so people can social distance. Newtown Linford has been very busy, and cars have been parking all over the village, causing much distress for residents. We have also had cars parked over pavements, blocking access for pedestrians. If all three car parks are closed, please consider using another local park to enjoy some fresh air and

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Message From HATS Article by Sue Withers

HATS just wanted to say hello to everyone. Our main message is that we hope you are all managing as well as you can under the very difficult circumstances.

We were sorry to have had to cancel our Spring Play, “Penny Black”, after everyone put so much work and effort into creating another fabulous production for you all to enjoy. However, the good news is that we plan to go ahead with this production for our Spring Play 2021, so watch this space for further details. Clearly this will depend on any guidelines given out by the Government at this time.

In the meantime we are looking at our Panto production, which hopefully will take place in November 2020, again this will be dependent on any guidelines given out by the government. We will keep you updated and hopefully see you soon.

We want to make sure we produce something special for you, and for ourselves.

This will be in recognition of HATS celebrating 30 years in October since the group was established. Yes 30 years! We are proud to say that we are the oldest, well established and well respected Amateur Dramatics Society in Birstall, and we will endeavour to ensure that we continue to produce quality enjoyable performances for you all for many more years. Please take care and look after yourselves and each other.

The Charnwood Gardener Article by Peter Flood

Three Simple Ways To Improve Your Outdoor Space Chances are you’re spending a bit more time in the garden than usual.

Aren’t we all? But maybe, despite your best efforts, it’s just not the garden you wish it was. It might be a bit of an uncertain time for spending money on a total overhaul, but there are some easy steps you can take to improve what’s already there.

Hedges & Edges The old gardener’s adage rings true here – it’s all about hedges and edges.

Put simply, a few weeds won’t matter so much if there’s a sense of order and unity about the place. Give the hedge a good cut. Define what’s a flower bed and what’s a lawn. Clean the patio.

Think of the bigger picture and keep on top of the essential jobs.

Work Continues To Support Charnwood Communities

Article by Charnwood Borough Council From delivering food parcels and making befriending calls, work is continuing to support residents through Charnwood Community Action.

The campaign was launched by Charnwood Borough Council in partnership with John Storer Charnwood to support, advise, guide and coordinate the borough-wide community effort during the coronavirus pandemic.

Since launching, over 1,750 food parcels have been delivered to members of the community experiencing financial difficulties and over 250 vulnerable residents without any support networks are receiving regular befriending calls to check how they are.

Local Facebook group, Loughborough Against Corona now has over 900 volunteers helping to collect and deliver shopping and medical supplies for residents in the borough at increased risk of severe illness from coronavirus.

Over the past few weeks the Council has been making welfare checks on Charnwood Lifeline customers, tenants in sheltered accommodation and those aged over 80 to see how they are and if they need any further support.

In addition, the Council will be contacting around 300 residents aged over 70 from the electoral register where a telephone number has been provided.

Residents are being encouraged to say a public thanks to individuals, groups and businesses across Charnwood who are supporting communities during this difficult time by nominating them for a Charnwood Community Action Star.

The Council has received over 30 nominations already and nominees will be added to a roll of honour on its website and give them a shout out on social media. To tell us about your Charnwood Community Action Stars, all you need to do is complete a simple online form explaining who they are and what they’ve done.

Persicaria Bistorta Superba

Colour It In The right plants can transform the most basic of spaces - but which to choose? A useful way to get started is to decide on a colour palette. Maybe a cool, contemporary combo of green and white, utilising Buxus balls, shuttlecock ferns and tall Alliums. Or, if you’re an old romantic and you fancy a cottage garden feel, try the soft pinks, purples and yellows from Persicaria bistorta ‘Superba’, Lavandula ‘Hidcote’ and Achillea ‘Moonshine’.

Keep Yourself Interested You know those green-fingered strangers with beautiful gardens? They’re just like you, but they love gardening. Try some new things to see if you get the bug - if you do, you’ll be out there all the time. Grow some strawberries.

Make a cut flower bed. Experiment with hügelkultur (or at least google it).

Make your garden a place you can’t wait to get out to.

As a small attempt to help during these past few uncertain months, I’ve been offering completely free gardening advice to anyone who needs it. Send your questions my way via Twitter - @PeterFlood - and I’ll gladly answer them.

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Cllr Deborah Taylor, the Council’s lead member for communities said: “It’s essential we continue to support our communities and vulnerable residents through this difficult time. We’ve already written to all homes in the borough and will continue to make welfare checks on our vulnerable residents and tenants where possible. The community spirit has been fantastic, and we’ve been really pleased with the response to Charnwood Community Action.

Local businesses have been very generous with donations, helping us to continue delivering food parcels to our residents in most need. I’d like to thank all of the communities in the borough which have come together to help their neighbours and local residents. If you know of an individual, group or local business making a difference during these difficult times, nominate them for a community star.

It’s a quick and easy way to give a public thanks.”

Charnwood Community Action is being supported by many community groups, volunteers, town and parish councils, the Bridge, Fearon Hall and a number of local businesses.

If you have concerns about someone who does not have any support networks, please let the Council know by contacting the Charnwood Community Action team at www.johnstorercharnwood.org.uk

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Anstey Chess Club Article by Ben Vaughan

Hello everyone! As I'm sure you're aware, COVID-19 has had a grip over the country and the world over the past couple of months. Chess has very much had to take a back seat. From the bottom of our hearts, we - as Anstey Chess Club - hope that you and your family have managed to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results Of course, there has been zero chess over the past couple of months so the first team remain top of division 4 with 3 games left to play. We can still be caught so we haven't won the league just yet. The 2nd team have had a good season captained by Oskar Rudczenko but are 2nd from the bottom of division 5 on 9 points. That shows how competitive that league is! ​ Free Chess Sessions - Reminder Sadly, we are not running any chess sessions on Saturday mornings for the foreseeable future. The Stadon wasn't quite right for Saturday morning coaching - it is perfect as a league venue though - so we decided to stop the training/coaching/practice sessions for now. We will hunt for a new venue and let you all know how we progress.

Website - Reminder We have a NEW website. After much scouring of the internet/looking at other sports clubs and what they do - a considerable amount of research, even if I do say so myself - we have found a new host for our site. www.pitchero.com/clubs/ansteychessclub Feel free to have a browse if you have a spare minute or two.

The Future Firstly, let us hope that you all stay safe and well during the pandemic.

This extends to our members of course as well. There has been zero discussion so far on a return to league chess - let's face it - the professionals haven't started back yet! We may be waiting until August before we can return although hopefully July may be achievable but this may be too early, given that Social Distancing over a chess board may be difficult!

Truncated Season Ends With A Win Finishing Top Of League For Anstey RFC

Article by Chris Apperley In what turned out to be the last league game of the season on 14th March, a full squad of Anstey players travelled to Lutterworth to take on their Development 15 (3rd Team).

With their higher teams not playing we found ourselves up against a powerful opposition, but with the grit and determination which has been the hallmark of this season’s squad there was a hard fought win.

Final Score Lutterworth 33 and Anstey 34 points.

This was a great grounding for the following week’s top of the table clash with Old Newtonians who were second behind Anstey in the table despite having played two more games.

We were looking forward to a good crowd at our Link Road Home Ground particularly as there were no Premiership Rugby matches on to deplete our audience.

But alas along comes ramped up measures to fight Covid-19 not only cancelling our top of the table encounter, but also the final league encounters with Market Harborough, Melton Mowbray and Oadby Wyggs.

The next victim for the club was the fully booked Easter Tour to Bristol. A shame as it was the first Anstey tour for a few years.

The next event now to happen is our delayed President’s Day, a family day, now

Stay safe and well everybody.

Ben Vaughan - Anstey Chess Club 0116 3320956 07469 207548 ansteychess@hotmail.com *New Website* www.pitchero.com/ clubs/ansteychessclub

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due to take place on Sunday 30th August.

At the time of writing it seems that our event will go ahead in some sort of new format due Social Distancing restrictions. we will see!

Our big 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner is still taking place on the revised date of Saturday 21st November in the Tryline Suite at Leicester Tigers. (originally it was scheduled fro 13th June) We are aiming for as many people as possible who have been involved with Anstey RFC since 1980 to celebrate with us on the night.

Contact Chris Apperley for more details on chris.apperley@me.com or 07720 451 455 The Club noticeboard is in The Coach & Horses - at the big screen Cropston Road end….But you can’t get in the pub at the moment!

Training is also cancelled until further notice, but will resume as soon as restrictions allow.

Anstey RFC are always ready to welcome new players, experienced or not.

Our Team Captain is Liam Curtis on 07727 118362 Or visit www.pitchhero.com/clubs/anstey or our Facebook Group Page at www. facebook.com/groups/20694012567

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Anstey Local History Society Article by Jane Cole

Unfortunately, along with all other village groups, Anstey Local history Society has been unable to meet due to the Coronavirus pandemic. However, our members have continued to be busy behind the scenes.

A Favourite Walk

Article by Sue Wainwright Beside the Lin, beneath the trees that Lady Jane once knew, As autumn leaves begin to turn, her house comes into view.

Near the weir a group of swans sits preening in the sun.

Across the path, among the rocks, children climb in fun.

As many of you will know, Brian Kibble has entrusted the guardianship of the Millennium Collection to the society. This collection comprises of photographs, flyers, past copies of the Anstey Scene, adverts, bills and receipts, parish council papers, maps, the list goes on.

Ducks dabble in the stream, a moorhen, sleek, strides by, And somewhere up and out of sight a lark sings in the sky.

There are now nearly 5000 items copied and digitalised and Brian has been busy during lockdown continuing to add to the archive. We always welcome new additions to the collection.

I stand to watch in silence, amazed at this rare sight; Then a stately stag appears and joins them as his right.

We were fortunate to receive, just before lockdown, a Charnwood Members Grant from Councillor Paul Baines, which has enabled us to buy recording equipment for a new project we are going to undertake. The society plans to record people’s memories of life and times in the village as a lasting legacy. We would like all age groups to take part and you don’t need to be born and bred in Anstey; newcomers such as me (I have only been here 41 years!) are welcome. Obviously, this will only begin when restrictions are eased.

We would also like to build a record of people’s memories of both V. E. Day and V.J. Day in August. So, if any of you have memories of 1945 or have parents/ grandparents who might have memories of the day or have left you memorabilia etc. we would love to hear from you. They don’t have to be Anstey related.

A sudden movement up ahead catches quick my eye Half a dozen fallow deer are grazing just nearby.

As I head towards Jane’s home and a welcome cup of tea, I always thank Charles Bennion for the joy he’s given me.

Satisfied and greatly blessed I walk back past the deer, Back into the bustling world - but I’ll return next year.

(Leicestershire & Rutland Women’s Institute 2020 competition entry

by Sue Wainwright. It won 1st prize. The walk was on Sept.29th 2019 in Bradgate Park.)

Staying Safe, Calm And Connected Article by Gary Trickett

Our Autumn programme is as follows:

We are living in unprecedented times, and one thing to remind ourselves is that anxiety or mood problems are perfectly normal right now. The current climate would test anyone.

September 16th: The Story of Leicester’s Trams (Mike Greenway from the Leicester Transport Heritage Trust)

Acknowledge emotions and fears and try to share these with a loved one or friend.

ALHS is hoping to be back to ‘normal’ in September with our Autumn programme and plan to rearrange the cancelled meetings for 2021.

October 21st: The Martin Family (Colonel Robert Martin) November 18th: The Bradgate Park Digs (Professor Richard Thomas) Anstey Local history Society meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month, at Anstey Community Library, beginning at 7.00.p.m. The meetings are free for members and £2.00 for non-members.

We can be contacted through our website www.ansteyhistory. com or Tel: 07870 197 958.

Film Presentations Thurcaston And Cropston Parish Article by Diana Green

In March, “ Downton Abbey “ was postponed. Please retain your tickets for use during the Autumn.

Unfortunately, no films will be shown in Thurcaston during June and the summer. Please watch the Parish Website and look for posters to indicate the next films, hopefully in September.

The Film Volunteers

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To help manage uneasiness, try to keep to a routine. Our bodies operate on a series of cycles. Having a regular time for getting up, eating meals, going outdoors for exercise, and going to bed will help reassure your body on a subtle but important level, as well as assisting your circadian rhythm to settle.

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

If anxiety is having a knock-on effect on your sleep, try Valerian; it is recognised for its calming action and is thought to inhibit the breakdown of GABA, a chemical transmitter that enables you to ‘cross over’ into sleep. A perfect partner to Valerian is Hops, as it exerts a gentle sedative action on the nervous system.

You may also wish to try Jan de Vries Emergency Essence, which uses a variety of flower extracts to help bring the emotions back to a balanced state.

Finally, try to remain grounded. This is a period in time; there will come a time when we look back and reflect upon how a nation pulled together during a difficult period in history. It won’t be like this forever and we will get through this.

For further advice visit Gary and his team at Healthy Route, 18 Silver Street, Leicester or call 0116 253 9097.

Anstey Parish Council Annual Report May 2019 / April 2020

Anstey Parish Council Jubilee Hall, Stadon Road Anstey Leicester, LE7 7AY Tel: 0116 236 2646 mobile 07458 305025 E-mail: clerk@ansteypc.org www.ansteypc.org.uk Produced by Anstey Parish Council

May 2020

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Annual Report Purpose of the Report 1.

To give details of the achievements of the Parish Council over the last 12 months and to set out the Council’s priorities for 2020/2021. APC is made up of 14 members and has six Committees to help carry out the work of the Parish Council and one steering group.

COVID-19 pandemic The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the lives of all residents and we have been working under difficult circumstances. The Council took the decision to close the Jubilee Hall, although we are still able to offer a very slimmed down version of services and you can contact the Council by email clerk@ansteypc.org and telephone (0116) 236 2646. We are hopeful at the time of print that the situation is starting to return to normal. The Parish Council is available to serve the people of Anstey and it will be considering support that can be put in place for the community. If you need help or guidance do get in touch with us.

Overview 2.

Over the past 12 months, the Parish Council and its staff have continued to be very active in maintaining high standards and developing its community assets within the village.

3.

The main assets of the Council are: Ø The Jubilee Hall, which continues to be very well used by village organisations; (and the income continues to cover the loan interest repayments). Ø The Stadon Road Recreation Ground, which includes the 2 equipped play areas, the multi-use games area and the War Memorial. Ø The top green on Bradgate Road. Ø The lower green by the brook on Leicester Road, including the Packhorse Bridge (a scheduled ancient monument and listed building). Ø The cemetery on Groby Road. Ø Mitchells Field on Cropston Road. Ø Link Road Playing Fields, which includes the rugby pitch. Ø The Scout Hut which is leased to the local Scout Group. Ø The public toilets in The Nook car park. Ø The Public Open Space at Long Close, including the play area. Ø The Public Open Space at Millfield Close, including the play area.

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Ø The Parish Council also maintains St Mary’s Church Yard, which is a ‘closed’ churchyard. Ø The Car park next to the Co-op 4.

The Parish Council continues to provide Christmas lights in the centre of the village.

5.

The main focus during the past 12 months has been to ensure that all of these assets are kept in good repair for the benefit of the residents of Anstey.

6.

On behalf of Leicestershire County Council the Parish Council maintains the grass verges within the village boundary.

Main Achievements in 2019/20 7.

There have been a number of notable events and achievements over the past 12 months: •

47 planning applications have been considered in public meetings. The Parish Council continues to work hard in collating information to make planning comments on these applications.

•

The Project and Grounds Committee have been working on the following projects; Ø Community Building / Scout Hut - The long term future of the Scout hut on Leicester Road is under consideration. An options report has been looking at the various alternatives for new and improved community facilities. New drawings have been approved in principle for an extension to Jubilee Hall, a steering group has been set up that is looking into the requirement of various groups within the community that need space to hold their activities. Ø A new garden of remembrance in the cemetery on Groby Road is near completion.

This offers a space for people to scatter ashes and place a plaque of remembrance. Ø A Neighbourhood Plan Advisory Committee has been formed from Councillors and residents of Anstey to develop the plan. This is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete. Ø A mosaic workshop was held to discuss the style of public art at the Groby Road housing estate. Julie Vernon a mosaic artist led the workshop session and the Council commissioned two pieces of art work. These will be installed on the green at the entrance to the estate once the land has been transferred to the Parish Council. Ø The re-location of the bus stop on Leicester Road is currently in the hands of Leicestershire County Council.

•

The Events Committee continue the community engagement strategy and are involved in various projects and events.

As part of the Plastic Free Status award this year APC has carried out various recycling schemes, including crisp packet, stamps and bottle top collection.

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Other work organised by the Events Committee includes; A Litter picking event was held as part of the Great British Spring Clean Hanging Baskets displaying flowers throughout the summer Wildflower planting on Leicester Road Tree planting on Link Road playing fields Christmas Lights for the village Supporting other groups with their events including the Gala Committee, the Community Library and the Royal British Legion. Ø Christmas Tea Party for residents of Anstey over the age of 90

Ø Ø Ø Ø Ø Ø

The Parish Council continues to support local groups and this year have provided grants totalling £7000.00 for 13 local groups including; Anstey Chess Club, Anstey Royal British Legion, Go Getta Youth Club, Gynsill Tennis Club, Anstey Town Charity, Anstey Nomads FC – Walking Football Centre, Anstey & Glenfield Cricket Club, Anstey Lunch Club, Christmas Day Alone, Anstey Women’s Institute, Anstey Skating Group, Star Tots Toddler Group, Anstey Gala. Further grant funding at the Parish Meeting supported five local groups with grant funding totalling £1000 – these groups included Anstey Without Lycra, Anstey Lunch Club, Anstey Town Charity, Anstey Chess Club, Anstey Royal British Legion.

The Council continues to work together with other tiers of local government. Leicestershire County Council and Charnwood Borough Council on areas of work that fall under their jurisdiction. For example: highways, street lighting and planning. In particular, the Parish Council has liaised closely with LCC and CBC regarding The Nook roundabout which is currently being looked after by the developers and then the maintenance of the planting will pass to the Parish Council.

Anstey Parish Council Staff Anstey PC has a total of eight members of staff to carry out the work of the Council. The administrative team consist of the: Clerk to the Council - Liz Hawkes, Deputy Clerk – Megan Sutliffe and the Administrative Officer – Judith Geary.

The Grounds team includes; Trevor Jones, Richard Jordan, Richard French and Neil Wright There have been changes within the ancillary staff at the Council with Esther Brown leaving in October 2019 and John Dowling left in March 2020. The Council was saddened to report the sudden death of Dean Taylor in December, Dean had worked for the Council since 2011.

Donna Brown has recently joined the Council as a Premises Operative taking over the responsibilities for cleaning and caretaking duties. This year the parish council will again be cutting the grass verges within the village and Neil Wright has been employed again this year as a seasonal grounds worker to carry out this work.

Priorities for 2020/21 8.

The Parish Council continues to maintain and develop its existing assets and to acquire further assets that it considers will be beneficial to the village.

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9.

The Events Committee are working on a schedule of activities for the year. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the GB Spring Clean has been postponed and the Party in the Park has been cancelled.

10.

The priorities for the Parish Council are usually considered after their Annual Parish Council Meeting in May.

11.

The Council currently have the following as their priorities: Ø

To continue work with Davidsons Homes for the transfer of land at Groby Road, this includes public open space, an extension to the cemetery, an allotment site and balancing pond.

Ø

To consider the long term future of the Scout Building on Leicester Road and the requirements for the 40th Leicester Scouts within Anstey. Continued work by the Steering Group to discuss the village requirements.

Ø

The Parish Council are looking at the option to extend the Jubilee Hall to meet the needs of the Scouts and other groups within the village

Ø

To consider the Bus Stop Relocation from Leicester Road to help the flow of traffic in the Nook. A public consultation was carried out and the information gathered was submitted to Leicestershire County Council. LCC have completed the statutory consultation and have scheduled the work to be completed. The project is to be funded by £62,000 from development contributions from the Fairhaven Farm Development

Ø

The Community Engagement Strategy ensures that Anstey Parish Council continues to support local groups to create a sustainable community within Anstey.

Ø

To provide additional outdoor recreational facilities for the people of Anstey.

Ø

To provide Affordable Housing, the planning application for the Gynsill Lane development suggests there is Section 106 funding available to contribute towards affordable housing within Charnwood, further clarification is required.

Ø

To finalise the new peace garden for the Groby Road Cemetery.

Ø

To produce a Neighbourhood Plan for Anstey, a Neighbourhood Plan Advisory Committee has begun the process.

12.

However, it should be noted that, in addition to the above, the day-to-day workload of the Parish Clerk and her staff is equally important and however much we aspire to achieve the proposals outlined above, we often find that we have to wait on the actions of other organisations before we can move forward.

13.

Residents will also appreciate that the possible development of other assets in the village may have to be considered to be secondary priorities.

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Financial Information 14.

In order to achieve its aspirations, the Parish Council has agreed to set its precept (part of the Council Tax) for 2020/21 at £292,176. This represents an increase of 2% to residents based on a Band D property (£2.26 per year 4p per week).

The main reasons for the changes to the budget were due to increased staffing costs. This is due to having well qualified staff, incremental point increases for staff wages and being a living wage employer. The other significant change is the extra income received from open space service level agreements.

15.

Unaudited Accounts The following is a summary of the income and expenditure for 2019/20; this includes the sum of £279,360 raised as part of the Council Tax.

Area

Expenditure

Income

£150,870

£287,076

£21,606

£12,295 £3,202

£10,089

£4,106

0

£175

£145,791

£13,166

Cemetery

£5,102

£10,450

Anstey Project Improvements (Including Cemetery)

£57,734

£8,000

Administration (Including staff costs) Jubilee Hall (Lease agreement) Public Toilets (income inc. grant from CBC & Ins)

Scout Hut Open Spaces (Including Wayleaves)

Conclusion In conclusion, I would like to extend my thanks to the Clerk and staff of Anstey Parish Council for their continuing efforts to provide top quality services and facilities for the residents of the village.

In this election year I would like to thank my fellow councillors for their support and for all of our achievements over the past 12 months. The following Councillors decided not to stand in the May 2019 elections, Emma Bown, Ian Grogan, Melissa Hadfield, Brian Rowlinson, Deborah Taylor and Chris Tunaley.

I am pleased to welcome new Councillors to the Council who are already working to improve the lives of residents in Anstey; Stuart Booth, Grant Cotton, Dave Parker, Kathy Peake, Murray Peat, Lee Potter and Matt Rogers.

Martin Broomhead Chairman of the Parish Council

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At the annual meeting on May 19th 2020 Martin decided to stand down as Chairman having stood for a total of thirteen years. Under his Chairmanship the Council has grown in strength working as a proactive organisation for the benefit of Anstey residents. His knowledge on highways matters and interest in planning have produced robust and well informed responses on planning consultations.

Martin will remain on the Council as Vice-Chairman and continue to support the Council and residents of Anstey.

Councillor attendance at meetings Year

2012/2013 2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019 2019/2020

Total % of Councillor Number of attendance at Meetings meetings Held 20 74% 17 78% 17 83% 18 85% 16 87% 17 85% 17 83% 17 88%

Percentage of Councillor Apologies for meetings 20% 16% 17% 15% 13% 15% 15% 12%

% Councillors absent from meetings 6% 6% 0 0 0 0 2% 0

The Public and Press are invited to attend the meeting of the Parish Council which start at 7.30 at the Jubilee Hall. Committee meetings start at 7pm, only meetings of the Staffing Committee are not open to the public.

Month May 2020 June 2020 July 2020 August 2020 September 2020 October 2020 November 2020 December 2020 January 2021

February 2021 March 2021

Date 19 26 9 30 21 11 1 15 22 13 20 3 10 17 24 1 15 5 12 19 26 9 16 9

Meeting Annual Meeting / Full Council Project & Grounds Committee – 1st quarterly meeting Full Council Full Council Full Council Full Council Full Council Events Committee – 2nd quarterly meeting Full Council Full Council Project & Grounds Committee – 2nd quarterly meeting Full Council Staffing Committee Events Committee – 3rd quarterly meeting Full Council Finance Committee Full Council Full Council Finance Committee Project & Grounds Committee 3rd quarterly meeting Full Council Events Committee – 4th quarterly meeting Full Council Full Council 7|Page www.facebook.com/OpenBoxPromotions | 23

April 2021

16 23 30 20 20

Staffing Committee Project & Grounds Committee 4th quarterly meeting Full Council Full Council Parish Meeting

Your Parish Councillors are: Martin Broomhead 170 Bradgate Road, Anstey. LE7 7FD cllr.martin.broomhead@ansteypc.org Nigel Aston 36 Summerfield Drive LE7 7QA cllr.nigel.aston@ansteypc.org Vicky Ball 91 Cropston Road, Anstey LE7 7BQ cllr.vicky.ball@ansteypc.org Sue Billington 5 Broadway Furlong, Anstey LE7 7TL cllr.sue.billington@ansteypc.org Stuart Booth cllr.m.stuart.booth@ansteypc.org 45 Gorse Hill, Anstey Grant Cotton 12 Hollow Road, LE7 7FQ cllr.grant.cotton@ansteypc.org Mandy Jordan 26 Hazelhead Road, Anstey LE7 7DX cllr.mandy.jordan@ansteypc.org Glyn McAllister 77 Hollow Road, Anstey. LE7 7FR cllr.glyn.mcallister@ansteypc.org Dave Parker 21 Cherry Tree Close, Anstey cllr.dave.parker@ansteypc.org Kathy Peake 11 Broadway Furlong, Anstey cllr.kathy.peake@ansteypc.org Murray Peat 110 Cropston Road, Anstey cllr.murray.peat@ansteypc.org Roger Peat 262 Link Road, Anstey LE7 7EF cllr.roger.peat@ansteypc.org Lee Potter 2 Hollow Road, Anstey LE7 7FQ cllr.lee.potter@ansteypc.org Matt Rogers 6 Elms Court, Anstey LE7 7BS cllr.matthew.rogers@ansteypc.org Parish Contact details: Liz Hawkes, Clerk to the Council Anstey Parish Council, Parish Office, Jubilee Hall, Stadon Road, Anstey LE7 7AY Telephone: (0116) 236 2646 mobile: 07458 305025 Email: clerk@ansteypc.org.uk, www.ansteypc.org.uk Your Borough Councillors are: Deborah Taylor

6 Geary Close, Anstey LE7 7LW

Paul Baines

3 Ruskin Field, Anstey LE7 7QP Your County Councillor is: Deborah Taylor 6 Geary Close, Anstey LE77LW

Tel: (0116) 235 0126 cllr.deborah.taylor@charnwood.gov.uk Tel: 07977 178869 cllr.paul.baines@charnwood.gov.uk Tel: (0116) 235 0126 Email: Deborah.Taylor@leics.gov.uk

Your Member of Parliament is: Edward Argar House of Tel: 020 7219 8140 Commons London Edward.argar.mp@parliament.uk SW1A OAA

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Anstey Parish Council Article by Liz Hawkes

CHAIRMAN Councillor Martin Broomhead has been Chairman of the Council since 2006 for a total of thirteen years. He took the decision to step down from this position at the annual meeting on May 19th 2020.

During this time, Martin has worked to bring forward improvements, which has seen the Council develop into a forward thinking professional organisation. It works proactively for the benefit of Anstey residents and values the importance of working in partnership which has enabled the village to benefit from: • Extra land and facilities associated with Davidsons Homes developments.

• Building of the Community Footpath between Anstey and Thurcaston, Martin volunteered to be on site with a small team when the 1500 metre path was built.

• Recreation facilities at Mitchells Field These are just a few examples of the projects that Martin has been instrumental in bringing to fruition. His style of Chairmanship has been inclusive for all and he has managed a delicate balance of humour and leadership to deal with often difficult debates in meetings.

During his time of Chairmanship, Martin has been a keen supporter of local groups, attending as many different organisations and events as possible. Martin will remain on the Council as Vice-Chairman and continue to support the Council and residents of Anstey.

ANNUAL MEETING Meetings of the Parish Council have started again, they are currently being held virtually and the facility to do this will continue for the next 12 months. Meeting agendas are published on the website and the link to the meetings are contained within the agenda.

Contained elsewhere in this publication is the Annual Report which has the schedule of meetings for 2020 / 2021 The Annual Meeting contains a lot of procedural information with the Council considering the memberships of its committees the readoption of policies and schedule of meetings. The first item on the Annual Meeting agenda is the Election of the Chairman, as written above Martin has stood down from this position and Councillor Glyn McAllister has taken this up. Glyn has been a member of the Council since 2011 and has recently been Chairman of the Finance and Staffing Committees.

CORONAVIRUS The affect of the COVID-19 pandemic has been felt far and wide touching so many people in different ways. There has been a big response from members of the public wanting to volunteer and I am pleased to say that the uptake on these offers has been low.

A number of people in the village have been supported by the Parish Council with shopping and the collecting of prescriptions from the Chemist. Anstey PC continues to work in partnership with Charnwood Borough Council Voluntary Action Leicester and John Storer to support vulnerable people locally. Mutual Aid are also carrying out important work in support people and have notices around the village. If you do need support, with shopping, collecting prescriptions, dog walking, a friendly phone call do get in touch in the following ways; email clerk@ansteypc.org Telephone (0116) 236 2646 mobile 07458 305 025.

Your Councillors

Your Councillors can be contacted through the council office:

T: 0116 2362646 E: clerk@ansteypc.org

Jubilee Hall, Stadon Road, Anstey, Leicester, LE7 7AY

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COMMUNITY SPIRIT It has been heart warming to see how the community has come together over the past few weeks with beautiful rainbows displayed in so many homes, front gardens and business windows. It is very moving to be standing by front doors at 8pm on a Thursday evening and see neighbours coming out in support of the NHS and all front line and key workers that are providing such an important service to keep us safe. Displays of celebration for VE day across the village were enjoyed by many with music and dancing in the glorious sunshine. The Anstey COVID Quartet have been playing music at Bradgate Road and Hollow Road on Thursday evening to show their support. Small acts of kindness are so important during this difficult time. There have been many challenges from those who are home schooling and feeling lonely through not seeing friends and relatives. These times will pass and we will again be able to celebrate together.

FACILITIES IN ANSTEY During the lockdown local services have been reduced and at the Parish Council the Jubilee Hall closed as a place of work and to members of the public. As restrictions are starting to be lifted the hall is now providing a base for staff, although the hall remains closed and enquiries should be made by telephone or email.

The following facilities remain CLOSED and we will look to be opening them in line with Government Guidance.

• Playparks at Stadon Road, Millfield Playing Field, Long Close • The gym equipment on Mitchells Field • The Multi Use Games area on the recreation ground • Public Toilets • Jubilee Hall to members of the public.

We are working in a fast-changing environment and as soon as information is received about the lifting of restrictions, we will be looking to re-start these facilities.

GRASS CUTTING It was not possible for APC staff to cut grass verges and other areas in the village during the lockdown and I am pleased to report that this service has started again. It will take a while to return the grass cutting to the previous high standard and appreciate your understanding of the problems that have been faced with this.

EVENTS Events have been cancelled and it is not possible to organise or continue much of the work that falls under the remit of the Events Committee.

• Party in the park • Summer litter picks • Planting of wild flowers • It is no longer possible to re-cycle crisp packets The hanging baskets will be put up around the village which will provide a welcome burst of colour as we enter summer.

Parish Council Meetings will be held on the following Tuesday evenings 9th June, 30th June, 21st July starting at 7.30 at the Jubilee Hall All members of the public are welcome to these meetings.

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Anstey Nomads

Article by Adam Etheridge With the 2019/20 season coming to a premature end, and all results expunged, Anstey Nomads Manager, Tony Blanchard, has turned his attentions to building for next season.

“It’s difficult to plan at the minute” said Blanchard “under the current circumstances we know very little about the next phase and when we can start training. We have to move forward as though it’s business as usual, so that we’re not behind schedule when we’re given the all-clear, but we know that it’s not going to happen any time soon, so everyone’s in a state of limbo."

“It was certainly disappointing for the season to end when it did” reflected Blanchard, “but it was the right thing to do though, football is put into perspective at times like this. I felt that we were just hitting our stride, so it would have been good to finish the season on a high note that we could carry into the next campaign.

“Results such as the win away to Shepshed Dynamo and the Cup victory against Heather St. John’s showed that we’re ready to mix with the best teams at this level, and though we lost away to Quorn, the performance was good enough to suggest we belong at the top end of the table, and that will be our aim next season.”

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Whilst the Nomads endured a torrid start to the campaign, losing their first four matches, a 9-5 home defeat against Deeping Rangers, followed shortly by the return of Blanchard, seemed to prove turning points in the season. “They’d already begun to improve by that stage, their first win of the season had given them some belief, but that home defeat showed them that they weren’t where they needed to be.”

A run of seven undefeated matches followed for the Nomads and they would go on to lose only five more matches in the remainder of the season, with the Quorn defeat the only reverse in their final 10 matches.

“I think if we can keep the current squad together, with one or two additions, we can expect to fight for promotion” stated Blanchard “I’d like to see us perform better in the Cups next season as well.

The FA Cup and FA Vase defeats were a big disappointment, going out to lower league opposition in both was a blow, but it was early in the season and our County Cup run showed that we were made of sterner stuff as the year progressed.”

The Nomads are waiting to learn of the fate of the County Cup final, in which they were scheduled to face Barwell at Holmes Park in late April. Both clubs hope to play the match at the start of next season but are waiting for the County FA to decide if it will go ahead when football can resume.

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Thurcaston And Cropston Gardening Club Article by Richard Elks

Putting On A Show With Thurcaston Brownies Article by Irene Marriott

The Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club started the year so well with three excellent meetings and speakers. We were also optimistic that other speakers and events would have been good. So, it is very regrettable to need to cancel, but keeping everyone safe and well are our priorities.

While the Gardening Club activities are ‘on hold’ due to the Coronavirus pandemic we are keeping in touch with members through the means of newsletters.

The April and May meetings were immediately cancelled, as was an outing to Waterperry Gardens in May. Since then meetings and events have been put on hold, and we keep a close eye on developments.

With so many cancellations and postponements and so many changes to our lives due to the pandemic, some days it’s difficult to remain cheerful. But many members have sent us lovely pictures of their gardens and uplifting stories which we share through the newsletter. We share some of them with you below.

For more information of Gardening Club activities, please contact: Dave Haddon (0116) 235 9758: david.haddon20@ntlworld.com Or Richard Elks (0116) 236 8313: cropston161@hotmail.co.uk

We celebrated the New Year in Chinese style learning about the year of the Rat, and trying Lion Dancing with our home made lion costumes. Next we wore tartan, ate haggis and neeps, and danced the Gay Gordons for Burns Night.

But the aim of the term was to earn our Performing Arts badge which involved the girls giving individual performances to the rest of the Brownie Pack; these included some beautiful singing, recorder playing, joke telling and even a maths lesson.

The Performing Arts badge also required combined performances so the Brownies got together to put on three puppet shows. The girls chose the traditional stories of Cinderella, and Jack and the Beanstalk and wrote their own version of The Three Little Pigs with the houses made of chocolate and toffee. But before the final performances a lot of preliminary work was necessary. Puppets were made with polystyrene balls for heads, the Fe Fi Fo Fum Giant needed an extra large head of course Bodies were made from small garden sticks with moveable stick arms. There was lots of choice of wool for the hair, googly eyes, fabric for clothes, pretty ribbons for decoration. As well as puppets the girls made scenery and props such as beanstalks, Cinderella’s glass slipper etc After the half term break we returned to celebrate the Scout and Guiding Movement’s Thinking Day. In torchlight, we lit candles to denote our Promise and various parts of the World flag and we held Brownies and Guides all over the world in our thoughts. We finished the evening with Pancake races as Shrove Tuesday had been the previous day.

On the following week the Brownies practised and practised their puppet shows and a week later performed excellently for their appreciative parents.

With all the work completed the Brownies were awarded their bright pink Performing Arts badges.

Coronavirus reared its ugly head and the rest of our plans for the term had to be abandoned.

To all Brownies and former Brownies, a reminder of the Brownie Motto ‘A Brownie thinks of others before herself and does a good turn everyday’. This might be a useful thought for the days ahead.

Keep well, stay at home. Snowy Owl.

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Spend Time With Horses And Soothe Your Anxiety!

New: A Free Evening Group For Adults Article by Lindzi Mayann

Nat has loved horses FOREVER. And she’s worked with them at our local stables for almost just as long. So I couldn’t wait to catch up with her about plans to bring together adults, perhaps with anxiety, depression and other health conditions, through caring for horses.

Nat admits anxiety has always impacted on all aspects of her life and horses have always played a huge role in helping her through the rough patches. She has made a career out of being around them and has taught a diverse range of people to ride and care for horses for almost twenty years; kids to adults, from all backgrounds and with all manner of additional needs.

Ten years ago Nat was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. She battled with her weight, hair loss, pain and discomfit and she remembers times when she came round on the bathroom floor after passing out. Her symptoms progressively worsened, her Crohn’s became very aggressive and she began to develop abscesses in her bowel- one of which went into sepsis and came close to killing her.

After two emergency operations she was left with an ilestomy bag.

Nat tells me she was in and out of hospital, trying treatments and medication and nothing seemed to be working. She developed complex fistulas (yes I had to look it up to understand), had 6 setons to try and correct this condition and also developed pyoderma (serious ulcers) on her legs and around her ilestomy bag. Her body was so inflamed inside and out and in constant, extreme pain. She recalls her skin was so damaged and raw that her bag wouldn’t stick to her body and she had to use masking tape to secure it and keep it from leaking. This, she tells me, was one of her darkest times in handling what was being thrown at her.

As she explains her hellish experiences it is very hard to not feel emotional.

Nat has not been a stranger to adversity in her life. But this whole experience took its toll and unsurprisingly proved to be one of her biggest challenges.

Since the diagnosis and subsequent complications, processes and treatments, Nat explained her mental health has been an ongoing struggle. As always, working with, looking after and being around the horses made her feel better. Not that it was always possible with her health!

Nat eventually broke down to her specialist, feeling unable to take anything more and begged him to take away her bowel. After a gruelling 7 month wait, taking steroids to calm the ulcers on her skin she had a colostomy fitted and she tells me how it was the best decision for her. It gave her back a quality of life she’d previously lost and is currently in remission.

Anstey WI

Article by Sheila Timms Anstey WI heard Ian Retson, a volunteer with the Woodland Trust, speak about the work of the trust, and why trees are important. Wood plays an important role as fuel, for building and industry, taking up water that might otherwise flood, and absorbing carbon dioxide.

Ian’s passion for trees shone through as he showed slides of our local woodlands, and the National Forest. The woodland Trust owns as much woodland as the National Trust, and it is all open to the public at no charge. The National Forest is providing jobs and amenities, and increasing biodiversity through preserving ancient woodlands and planting new native trees.

The meeting had opened with the singing of Jerusalem, and Ian’s slides showed that England still is very much a “green and pleasant land.” Long may it remain so, despite the threat from housebuilding and infrastructure projects.

The competition, for a model or image of a tree attracted a good number of entries. The winner was Jan Darby with a felted picture she had made, and the runners up were Sylvia Cole and Gill Jones.

30 | www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/news

She still suffers with anxiety and depression but has long been thinking how she could use her experiences positively to help others.

“I want anyone who has any health condition to know they’re not alone. And to experience being around horses to help them feel better.” It’s a simple and powerful sentiment and I totally support her.

She also assures me there is no experience with horses necessary. From May of 2020, Nat will be offering a relaxed, adult meet-up at Park View Stables (in-between Thurcaston and Anstey). The sessions will run on an evening for 90 minutes and the group will get to know the horses and learn routines of caring for them.

Nat has a unique combination of experiences which make her the perfect person to co-ordinate and deliver this group. She has a genuine motivation driving her never mind a cracking personality which I’ve no doubt are going to make this meet-up an amazing atmosphere.

For more information and/ or to reserve a place please email natalielennon29@ gmail.com or call 07825576486.

Equine therapy or EAT (Equine Assisted Therapy) is widely accepted to positively benefit mental health, wellbeing and recovery. Horses have been used in therapy for many years and are still a popular choice. The benefits include aiding selfesteem, encouraging positive emotions such as worthiness and develop confidence and independence.

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