r u yo
5700 delivered FREE to homes and businesses in Rothley & Mountsorrel
Y PP R HA STE EA
LOCAL
March 2018
e e ice’ Steamed Up or Broken Windows? ‘W ’t b pr We offffer UPVC window and door repairs at great prices. So if you’ve got UPVC windows that are steamed up, won’t open or close properly, or patio doors that need on on some attention, we’re here to help! h We replace the pane not the frame, backed up with a w n fu ull guarantee and the peace of mind m that we are endorsed by Which as a TRUSTED trader. e t a e b
Call ll tod day ffor a FREE quotation 0116 2 d 2388 109 or 07 773 4424 911
Spr pring T Time!
SPRING INT TO ACTION AND ND
ORDER R
NOW W! WE PAY YOUR VAT
DRIVE TIME!
PA AYMENT YMENT OPTIONS AV VAIL AIL ABLE
WRITTEN DETAILS ON REQUEST
LARGE DRIVES
FROM £200 A MONTH
PATIOS
MEDIUM SIZED DRIVES
FROM £150
FROM £100
A MONTH
A MONTH
BEAT THE SPRING RUSH GE T YOUR QUO T E T ODAY !
Spring is ccoming and it’’s time to sort out your garden in time for the legendary British Summer! Beat the crowds d this Spring and get your order in early e . Large drivves from £200 per month Medium d drives from £150 per month Small Patiios from £100 per month
Why should you installl a Resin Drive? Thatt’s simple; our product naaturally drains water through it which means no puddles. Also with a slip resistant surface it provid des better traction for tyres and gives more grip ffor or when you walk on it, making your drive a safe place to be! Choose from our latest range of over 60 colours or create your own unique de esign making your
property truly unique.
C A L L TH HE DR IV E W AY, P AT H A N D P ATI O SP ECI A LI S T S T O D AY!
0800 007 5733 LIN E S O OPE N 7AM - 10PM OR VISIT WWW .RESINDR IVES . C O .UK Resindrives.co.uk is a trading name of resindrives.co.uk ltd. Authorised and re egulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FR N7 743675) 743 We are a credit brroker and not a lender, we offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders.
BankBusster Loan Example
Total Loann Amount: £77,500 Total ,,500 Monthly Repayment: £2277.83 .83 Number of o Repayments: 35 yment of: £2277.54 .54 And Final Paayment Agreement nt Length: 36 Months Total T otal Amount Amo ount PPaayyable: £8,201.59 Total T otal Cred dit Charge: £701.59 Rate of Intterest: 5.7% AIR Representtative APR: 5.9% APR
your
ARE YOU AGE 11-17 YEARS? DO YOU WANT TO TRY A NEW SPORT?
LOCAL
JOIN & FOLLOW US facebook.com/openboxpromotionsl twitter.com/openboxpromo
SALES TEAM SARAH TAYLOR T: 0800 6446 150 E: sarah@openboxpromotions.co.uk
Leicester Rowing Club now has spaces available. Fancy having a go to see if you like it? Then contact me, Freya - Junior Rep on 0116 2878313
DAWN HARRIS T: 0800 6446 150 E: dawn@openboxpromotions.co.uk
Recent wins at Ancholme (Lincoln) Northampton, Henley and Nottingham at the junior trails. Finalists at the Leicester Mercury Sports Awards January 2018, Winners of the Leicester City Council Sports Awards January 2018, and 1 young member at GB trails!!!
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Make New Friends, Keep fit and Explore a different sport.
ANDREW LEWIS M: 07504 634 838 E: andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk
Want to watch an exciting sport for FREE-Leicester Regatta is at the rowing club on Upperton Road Sunday April 22nd, Hundreds of crews racing of all ages, excellent refreshments and the best homemade cakes. Join us for the fun
PUBLISHED BY OPEN BOX PROMOTIONS LTD T: 0800 6446 150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk Open Box Promotions Ltd, 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, LE9 2HQ
PRINTED BY NORWOOD PRESS T: 01530 262020 E: info@norwoodpress.co.uk W: www.norwoodpress.co.uk Norwood Press, Unit 1, Moore Road, South Leicester Industrial Estate, Ellistown, LE67 1EU
NEXT ISSUE OUT DELIVERY DATE:
Wednesday 18th April 2018
DEADLINE DATE:
Monday 9th April 2018 Deadline and delivery dates are subject to change depending on how far we are ahead or behind. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the original advertisers & contributors and do not necessarily represent Your Local or Open Box Promotions Ltd. Open Box 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
Don’t forget on Sunday, March 25 at 1am, clocks go forward one hour, signalling the start of British Summer Time
ADVERTISING RATES ADVERT PRICES Advert Size
Width
Height
Eighth Page
94.5mm
63.5mm
£40
Quarter Page
94.5mm
134mm
£70
Half Page
196mm
134mm
£120
Full Page
196mm
275mm
£225
Front Strip (210mm x 50mm) - ONLY £150+VAT
One Off Adverts
-
3 Month Pre Pay or 3 Areas
Advertorial Prices
+VAT
£90+VAT (£30 p/m)
N/A
+VAT
£165+VAT (£55 p/m)
£105+VAT
+VAT
£285+VAT (£95 p/m)
£180+VAT
+VAT
£585+VAT (£195 p/m)
£337.50+VAT
Back Page (210mm x 297mm) - ONLY £250+VAT
Call us on 0800 6446 150 or Email: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
3
8 GO MAD IN TANZANIA 6 young people aged 16-18 and 2 youth leaders from Rothley Parish Church are going to spend 2 weeks in August 2018 Making a Difference in Tanzania, East Africa. James, Sam, Becky, Jenny, Gina and Maud, together with leaders Steve and Lindsay Thomason, will spend two weeks with Go Make a Difference, a Christian charity that enables volunteers to get involved in a range of community projects, such as building schools, building water tanks and providing vital medical and social care. The team will be getting involved in various projects in the local community of Musoma, such as building a pit latrine and a goat shed, assisting with health screening and helping in a local orphanage. The charity encourages all volunteers to raise money for specific projects they will be involved in. Over the coming months we will be organising various events to raise money for the projects but individual donations are also gratefully accepted by visiting: https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/8gomad After orientation and training in Tanzania the team are hoping to get involved in some the following activities. • Making doors and windows in the workshop.
• Building dairy goat sheds, water tanks, low cost housing and toilets. • Medical. Taking sick people to hospital, helping in clinics.
• Health intervention trips to villages for de worming, giving out nets etc in the villages and schools.
• Children. Sports and games in the villages and Sunday School.
data from a goat scheme and farming initiatives • Farming. Helping organise and collect including working with farmers.
Steve, James, Sam, Maud Jenny, Gina, Becky, and Lindsay. • Schools, helping in classes, painting classrooms etc.
Steve Goodger
29 Dalby Road, Anstey, Leicester
Call Steve 057567 on 07724
Experience
Washers Dryers Dishwashers Fridges Cookers
●
●
●
GAS AND ELECTRIC
All Leading Makes Serviced - 20 Years
Over 30 years experience in the electrical trade
Domestic Spares & Repairs Appliance
4
Extra Sockets - Lighting
Electrical Services
Re-wires - Security Lighting Burglar Alarms or any other electrical problems Part P Registered
NOW TAKING CREDIT/DEBIT CARD PAYMENT
David Preston - Mob: 0775 262 3885
www.1-4-all.co.uk
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.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 HIĂ€FLHQW :K\ QRW VSHQG D IHZ PLQXWHV checking your home to see if you have
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 SUREOHP DQG WHOO \RX KRZ ZH FDQ À[ LW 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 Michael Parr and he services the Rothley & Mountsorrel areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Michael a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.
Cloudy2Clear Windows... Service With A Smile!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 Mins!!!
Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service
Westminster -B -BX
If you are over 65 it will only cost you ÂŁ75* to make or update your Will. We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - only ÂŁ 5* 5* each LPA if instructed during the Will appointment. FT JODMVEF IPNF WJTJJUT UT BOE JDFT OIFSJUB UBODF 5BY BEWJDFF
,JSLLI IJMM 4IFQTIFE -& 1"
* . These very special rates are only available if you are over 65 y rs old. Our normal low price for a standard single Will is ÂŁ12 , ÂŁ1 for two.
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
5
Challengers wanted for Charity Link’s Leicestershire 3 Peaks event LEICESTER BASED charity, Charity Link, is looking for people to take on its annual Leicestershire 3 Peaks Challenge in September to help improve the lives of local families living in hardship.
FREE ADVERT DESIGN
Launched in 2016, Charity Link’s Leicestershire 3 Peaks Challenge is a unique 16 mile route which beings and ends at Bradgate Park and takes in the peaks of Beacon Hill, Bardon Hill (Leicestershire’s highest point) and Old John Tower in Bradgate itself. The target time for challengers to complete the challenge is seven hours. Challengers can also choose to run the route which includes some of the county’s most beautiful – and physically challenging countryside, including Broombriggs Farm Country Park and Billa Barra Hill Nature Reserve. Taking place on Sunday 23rd September 2018, Charity Link hopes that this year’s challenge will beat the fantastic sum of £6,000 raised last year after 60 challengers took part in the challenge. Charity Link works throughout Leicester, Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire to support individuals and families facing hardship and crisis. The charity provides essential items, including beds, cookers and clothing to help improve quality of life and to enable people to fulfil their potential, no matter what crisis, illness, disability or difficulty they may be facing. Due to the unique way it works, for every £10 donated to the charity it can raise £50 from Charitable Trusts around the UK. This means that every challenger raising £100 in sponsorship will actually help to provide £500 worth of essential items to local people in need. To find out more about the challenge or to register visit www.charitylink.org/leics3peaks or call 0116 222 2200. Charity Link would also be delighted to hear from local businesses interested in supporting the event, with Bawdon Lodge Farm in Nanpanton once again offering challengers a welcome coffee stop en-route and Charnwood Accountants sponsoring challenger medals
EY THL
RO
&M
EL
ORR
TS OUN
L KING TO ADVERTISE! 8 PUBLICATIONS TO CHOOSE CARD PAYMENTS NO PRESSURE SALES ADVERTISE WHEN YOU WANT FOR AS LONG AS YOU WANT
CALL: 0800 6446 150 GOT AN ARTICLE TO SEND US? We are always on the lookout for local news. Please send articles to: yourlocal@ openboxpromotions.co.uk
Choi r of clare c o l lege, cambridge Saturday 10 March, 7.30pm Martin Hall, £13 / £10 / £5 students
nt liv e - j u liu s Ca esa r Thursday 22 March, 7pm Cope Auditorium, £10
M a d dy P r io r i n C o n c e rt w i t h Giles Lewin an d Han nah Jam es Wednesday 18 April, 7.30pm Martin Hall, £16.50 / £5 students
0116 2505 848
R o b i n I n c e – P r a g m at i c I n s a n i t y Wednesday 9 May, 7.30pm Martin Hall, £15 / £10 / £5 students
Box Office c/o LTH: 01509 231914
6
arts.lboro.ac.uk
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
£150,000 secured to fund new mobile Annual Golf Day for support service for the Armed Forces LOROS Hospice £150,650 of funding has been secured by three councils to help serving and former Armed Forces personnel in their communities. The funding will be used to set up a new mobile hub for serving armed forces personnel, veterans and their families. The hub will go into areas where people may find it difficult to access services and provide specialist help and support, including advice with housing, employment and finance. It will also have information about health and wellbeing and training opportunities. The hub will also provide an opportunity to meet other members of the armed forces living in the local area. Chris Traill, Strategic Director for Neighbourhoods and Community Wellbeing at the borough Council said: “We’re very pleased to have secured this funding so that we can continue to work with our armed forces to understand and provide the support they need.
THE HUGELY successful annual Golf Day for LOROS Hospice is now in its 12th year and has raised over £110,000 so far, which could be used to cover the cost of Day Therapy for 55 days, or to cover the cost of a specialist nurse for three years. The event, which will take place at Rothley Park Golf Club on 11th May will feature the ever-popular sponsored tees element. Businesses are pitching their pun-inspired holes including Parkers the Parts people with The ‘Par-kers Hole’, Swithland Spring Water have ‘The Watering Hole’, and Sturgess of Leicester have ‘The Driving Range’.
“This funding will enable us to set up the hub which will travel across the three boroughs to offer support to armed forces personnel and their families. “It will also work with organisations such as Age UK and Citizens Advice who can offer advice and information on a range of issues.” The funding has been granted by the Ministry of Defence as part of its Armed Forces support. Last year the three councils were awarded £97,000 for a two–year project which aims to help improve understanding of the issues facing military personnel in the area and look at how the councils can support them. The project is also looking at working with other organisations and businesses to encourage them to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant In 2017 the Charnwood Armed Forces Covenant was awarded Bronze by the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Scheme (ERS). The national scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. The Bronze award recognises that Charnwood, Melton and Rushcliffe borough councils have pledged their support to armed forces personnel and their families in Charnwood, by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. For more information about the Armed Forces Covenant visit: www.charnwood.gov.uk/support_for_the_armed_forces
Free writing competition for children aged four to 14 with the theme of HEROES
This year will be the final year that LCM Wealth Management will be sponsoring the event, and LOROS are on the lookout for a new partner for 2019, to ensure that this much-loved annual occasion can continue for years to come. LCM have been sponsoring the event for the past six years, helping to raise nearly £75,000 for the Hospice. LOROS Events Lead Laura Betts said: “We are so humbled by the generosity of our sponsors. Our golfing event has been one of the most successful events we’ve held over the years. “LCM have been amazing, the money raised is invaluable to LOROS and we’ll be sad to see them go. However, it opens up a great opportunity for a future partner that may want to come on-board and sponsor this popular event.” During the day, teams will be treated to a welcome buffet, with the event starting at 12pm, and the shotgun start at 12.30pm.
THE NATIONAL Young Writers’ Awards is set to return with a bang as world renowned best-selling children’s author David Walliams has been named judge for 2018. The theme for this year is ‘Heroes’ where children are tasked with writing a 500 word story all about their hero, whether that be their parent, a policeman or an idol they aspire to be like. The competition runs from Monday 5th March until Sunday 29th April and is open to all children aged 4-14 anywhere in the UK – from enthusiastic young writers to those who feel less confident. It’s very easy to enter. Children are invited to pick up an entry form from their local Explore Learning centre which can be found at Explore Learning Highcross Shopping Centre, Leicester LE1 4AN and then simply return the completed entry to them before Sunday 29th April. Or if children prefer, they can type their story and enter online at www.explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters. Don’t forget to include your contact information so they can get in touch if your child wins!
Hospitality will be provided at the 12th hole, sponsored by Mosdorfer CCL and goods kindly supplied by Dominic at David North. Dinner and a live auction will take place later on in the evening. “Our annual Golf Day is always a fabulous event, thoroughly enjoyed by everyone” added Laura. “And because of the kindness of our sponsors, it raises vital funds for the Hospice enabling us to continue caring for our 2,500 patients each and every year.” To enter your team for a ‘slice’ of the action, or to find out more about sponsorship please contact the Fundraising Team on (0116) 231 8431 or email fundraising@loros.co.uk
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
7
BRANCHES SEARCHING FOR LOCAL EGG-CELLENCE The Nottingham’s Shepshed, Loughborough and Rothley teams have come up with a competition to engage Leicestershire children that’s so good it could get poached! With Easter on the horizon the trio of branches are the places for youngsters to go for a free egg – alas, not a chocolate one (unless they become a competition winner!) but something similarly shaped that is sure to get them bursting with creativity. From Monday 5 March staff will be handing out goodie bags each containing a ‘design-your-own-egg’ to all children that pop in with a parent or guardian. The eggs can be painted, coloured in or stencilled when the youngsters get home and when returned to the branch they came from will be displayed for all to see in a cracking Easter nest. There is a deadline of Monday 26 March for competition entries and three winners – who will each land a fantastic Easter hamper including chocolate eggs and more – will be drawn the day after. Shepshed customer services consultant Jade Hardy said: “We had lots of entries for our Christmas ‘design a bauble’ competition so thought we’d do something similar in the lead-up to Easter.
Chess in Anstey and the surrounding area Venue: Anstey Community Library Time: Weekly on Saturdays from 10am until 1pm Have you ever played chess? Are you interested in advancing your knowledge? Are you a beginner? Would you like to learn a new and exciting hobby? Did you play years ago at school and never found anywhere or anybody to play? What ever your story is and whether you're a total beginner or a Grandmaster, I am working with Anstey Community Library to host free of charge chess sessions to anybody that wants to learn the game, improve their game or just play casual games socially and stretch their mind! Regardless of age, gender, talent or ability, come along and join us for some teaching, coaching or general chess chat in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. If you'd like to come but have any questions, please feel free to contact me, Ben Vaughan, on 0116 3320956, Text 07469 207548 or email ansteychess@hotmail.com '
“Over the festive period we mainly worked directly with local schools and playgroups Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-FEB 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info but this time around we are opening it up to youngsters across the area. “All they need to do is come and see us in-branch, pick up an egg and get to work with their creative skills. The lucky winner will receive a fab Easter hamper – if we get lots of entries there may even be some runner-up prizes too.”
tough laws on using s as satnavs in cars The branches can be found in the following locations… Rothley: 15 Woodgate, LE7 7LL. • Shepshed: Bull Ring, LE12 9QD. Loughborough: 9 Churchgate Mews, Biggin Street, LE11 1TZ.
early a year (April 2017) Beware clamped downtough on o use their on phones at laws using ut many drivers may not phones as to he laws also extend phones as satnavs. satnavs in cars
ot illegal tonearly use aayear navigation app, IT IS NOW (April 2017) since the Law clamped down on motorists who use ecution if they touch the handset their phones at the wheel. But many drivers hile may they atthat the notare realise thewheel, laws also extend to using mobile phonesThe as satnavs. e is not moving. maximum Although it is not illegal to use a navigation face prosecution if they touch led, to a £200 fine and six points,app, ordrivers even disqualification. the handset for any reason, while they are at the wheel, even if the vehicle is not moving. The spokesman maximum penaltyfor has the doubled, to asays: £200 fine and six has points,to or be even road safety RAC, ‘More disqualification. drivers that any use of a hand-held phone at the wheel is Pete Williams, road safety spokesman for the RAC, says: ‘More has to be done to resents both a that mental physicalphone distraction educate drivers any useand of a hand-held at the wheelthat is bothcould illegal and presents both a mental physical distraction that could ultimately cause a crash a crash and the loss and of life.’ and the loss of life.’ ere 22 deaths on the roads, simply due to drivers using In 2015 there were 22 deaths on the roads, simply due to drivers using handheld . phones. 8
EASTER BANK Brookvale Groby HOLIDAY DATES
‘Top of the B Chemistry C GOOD FRIDAY 30th MARCH EASTER MONDAY 2nd APRIL
TREVORS
GARDENING SERVICES Regular garden maintenance or one off tidy ups! Mowing, Weeding, Hedges, Borderwork, Fencing. Honest and dependable.
CALL NOW ON 07511 618105 or 0116 2927703
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
“Need An Electrician?� Call Phil NOW on 0116 2873226 - No Job Too Small You’ll get value for money because our pricing is You competitive, yet we never cut corners.
• Rewires
• Internet Cabling
• Emergency Call Outs
• USB Sockets
• Fuse Boards
• Outside Sockets
Returning Customers account for 74% of our Returning work - that says it all about the quality of our work and the friendliness in our service.
• Sockets
• Fault Finding
Wee give you five years guarantee on our labour. W
• Lights
• Security Lighting
• Showers
• Testing Testing Certificates
Wee’re NICEIC registered - so were assessed on W a regular basis to ensure the highest standard of care are always met.
• Extractor Fans
• Smoke Alarms
• Led Spot Lights
• Commercial
“Iff yyou ou can’t see what you want here we’ll probably do it – just ask ask��
Wee nev W never er leave mess behind. All our team are smartly uniformed and we train them to always be prompt, polite and professional (and they smile a lot) We’ll turn up when we say we will. We
For your FREE Quotation Call Us T Today oday
“A simple G “A Glenfield lenfield E Electrical lectrical guarantee guar antee fr from om myself P Philip hilip Houlder H oulder that over-rides everything. ever erything. ything. IIff you’re ree unhapp unhappyy about any aspect of our wor work, k, just let us know and we’’llll put it right.�
Call Phil NOW on
0116 2873226
SEMINAR
Understanding Residential Care Fees & Powers of Attorney Free practical & legal advice With an ever increasing elderly population, it is vital to understand what the consequences would be if you had to move into nursing or residential care in the future and whether there are steps you can take now to protect yourself and your family. Nelsons Solicitors are holding a free seminar which will cover the key points to consider, including: • What will happen if I have to go into residential or nursing care? • Will my house have to be sold? • Can I protect my assets from care fees? • Lasting Powers of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs
• Lasting Powers of Attorney for Health and Welfare • Advance Directives and Living Wills The seminar will take place on Wednesday 25th April from 10.00am until 11.30am at our Leicester office on New Walk. If you would like to book a place, please contact Tim Atkinson on
0800 024 1976 or email Tim.Atkinson@nelsonslaw.co.uk Further details can be found on our website www.nelsonslaw.co.uk
Nelsons Solicitors Limited Provincial House, 37 New Walk Leicester LE1 6TU
873_your_local_seminar_ad.indd 1
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
23/01/2018 15:24
9
ROLLS-ROYCE RETIRED EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION
Fraud and Cyber Prevention Conference Although fraud and online crime are not new, sadly over recent weeks we have had an increase in reports of fraud affecting older and vulnerable residents of Leicestershire. To that end, to raise awareness and help protect our community, Leicestershire Police are holding a FREE Fraud Protection Conference at Police Headquarters, on Friday 23rd March. Who is the event aimed at? • Anyone who has been a victim of fraud or cybercrime •
Anyone who is concerned about fraud and cybercrime, who would like to learn more in order to protect themselves and their families
•
Anybody who works or volunteers with elderly or vulnerable communities who could help us raise awareness of the most common issues and spread best practice advice
What will it entail? Presentations and guidance on fraud, scams and how to stay safe online from our Fraud Unit, Cyber Protect Officer, and GetSafeOnline Prevention advice from Leicestershire Trading Standards on doorstep crime, scam mail, and dealing with cold callers Advice and information from a number of organisations such as Age Concern, companies offering Call Blocking technology, and GetSafeOnline amongst others When is it? Friday 23rd March from 10am to 3pm, with buffet lunch included I’m interested, what do I need to do? If you would like to join us, please email FVO@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk or telephone 0116 248 5322 to reserve place(s) – cut-off date Friday 16th March. There is no charge for this event.
West End visit Londons West End was the destination for Rolls-Royce Retired Employees Association February excursion where 40 members went to see the long running musical Les Miserables at the Queens Theatre a further 10 members spent the afternoon taking in the sites of the capital. During March they are visiting The Blacksheep Brewery at Masham along with the ever popular tea dance at Rolls-Royce Leisure Moor Lane Derby further events planned for this year are a day trip to Ironbridge, a short break to Kent in May and a day at the Great Centrals 1940’s weekend. Visits to Heage Windmill have also been arranged. The Walk and Talk Group have walks planned to the end of the year these include Cromford, Melbourne and Weston On Trent with trips further afield during the summer months. The “This That and the Other Group” have voted for “Bloodwise” as their charity for 2018 and are already busy making Easter chicks to raise funds. The Associations Family History Group is now up and running and many of the group were elated to find ancestors on web sites that they have been shown since joining the group. The association meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at Rolls-Royce Leisure on Moor Lane Derby. For more information about the association generally please contact either of the above Sheila Furniss on 01332 516744 or Pat Neal on 0116 2106917
GOT AN ARTICLE TO SEND US? Reliable, Local Plumbing & Heating Engineer All types of Plumbing, Heating & Leadwork undertaken
25 years experience 10
Contact Richard on Tel: 0116 267 1826 Mobile: 07515 486072
We are always on the lookout for local news. Please send articles to: P R O P E R T Y M A I N TA N A N C E E S T 2 0 0 2 yourlocal@ Carpentry openboxpromotions.co.uk
T E R RY A L L E N
Painting & Decorating Fencing - New or Repaired Laminate Flooring Fitted Flat Pack Furniture Assembled Guttering - Etc.
For Your Free Estimate, Please Call Terry on 07766 7555 15 or 0116 2129344
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
L KING TO ADVERTISE! FREE ADVERT DESIGN 8 PUBLICATIONS TO CHOOSE CARD PAYMENTS NO PRESSURE SALES ADVERTISE WHEN YOU WANT FOR AS LONG AS YOU WANT
CALL: 0800 6446 150 GOT AN ARTICLE TO SEND US?
THE MONDAY CLUB CROPSTON AND THURCASTON
The Monday Club held its Annual General Meeting on 12th February. Copies of the previous AGM were circulated, along with the financial statement. The Club Leader/Secretary summarised business matters for the members, including our financial position, and said that we had had a successful year characterised by friendship and camaraderie. In addition to our regular membership of about 24 people we have welcomed several visitors. We have a regular source of publicity for the club, with illustrated posters to advertise the meetings placed strategically around the nearby villages, and several magazines accept articles about the talks each month, which cover a wide variety of topics. Speakers for a charity have always been willingly supported by the members. Word of mouth also helps to make people aware of our activities. Some of the highlights of the past year were discussed, such as the outing in May, which was enjoyable despite the weather, the lovely strawberry tea in July, and the Christmas lunch with entertainment, which was well attended despite the snow.
Other members of the Committee then spoke briefly about their activities. Those attending were asked whether anyone else wished to join the existing Committee, but so far there are no volunteers. The Committee Members are all willing to continue for the coming year, which was agreeable to those present and confirmed by a show of hands. The programme for 2018 was explained in detail. Then several members read poems of their own choice, which was received with applause. We enjoyed our usual tea/coffee and cakes, and the afternoon concluded with a couple of light-hearted quizzes, crowned with the presentation of chocolates to the winning table. Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month, starting at 2.15pm. Please see posters which are put up locally for details. On 9th April we shall find out “How to enjoy a healthy and wealthy retirement�. Visitors and new members are most welcome.
Mrs Maja Tompkins Contact mobile 07709 201881.
We are always on the lookout for local news. Please send articles to: yourlocal@ openboxpromotions.co.uk
STRUGGLING FOR STORAGE SPACE IN Y SPA YOUR OUR HOME? Install a lof loftt ladder and star startt utilising what could potentially be the lar largest gest rroom oom in the your home...
01530 261387 - 07515526959 - 07961576020 ST TAR ARTER P PA ACK CKA AGE DEAL
LOFT STORAGE SOLUTIONS
• 2 Section Aluminium Lof oftt Ladder
At Lof oftt 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 • 50sqf 50sqftt Moisture Resistant Flooring
FROM ONL ONLY Y
ÂŁ280 all in which includes FREE
• Lof oft Ladders • Lof oft oft Staircases • Lof oft oft Hatches • Lof oft Loft oft Boarding • Roof Windows • T Top-Up op-Up Insulation • Raf after ter Insulation • Lighting & Sockets • Complete Storage Rooms For information on our latest package deals visit us at...
www.LeicesterLof eicesterLoftS tStorage.com Alternatively contact us to discuss your requirements and let us tailor make a package to suit your needs & budget.
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
11
ASK Accountancy offer a range of exceptional services to start-ups and established businesses. www.askaccountancy.co.uk or call our Mountsorrel office on 0116 235 2244
CERT IFI E
D
BRITISH S TO TA
A local family firm ARD ND
LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANT IN YOUR LOCAL AREA?
BSI
3 6 2 1:1
98
0
• UPVC Door lock specialists • Cylinders, mechanisms, handles and letterboxes • Jammed, stiff to lock / unlock doors repaired
CUT OUT AND KEEP
• All types of locks opened, repaired, supplied and fitted • Police approved and CRB checked • Security upgrades / burglary repairs
24 HOUR EMERGENCY CALL OUT
0116 202 5961
Mountsorrel: 0116 235 2244 Hinckley: 01455 266 106
Email: ask@askaccountancy.co.uk www.askaccountancy.co.uk
www.dm-locksmiths.co.uk
Temperance Villas, 154 Rothley Road, Mountsorrel, Leicestershire, LE12 7JX.
T: 0116 3667766 E: W:
NOW ONLY ONL Y
ÂŁ239 CELSI FLAMONIK RAPTURE
• Black glass fascia • Striking electric flame effect • Colour changing back light with 4 settings • Colour changing fuel bed with 4 settings •T Two wo heat settings up to 1.8kW
Leicester's Largest
Was ÂŁ559.99
NOW ONL ONLY Y
NOW ONL ONLY Y
ÂŁ459.99
FLAVEL ARUNDEL FLAVEL
• Strong steel body and cast iron door • Large viewing window • Simple primary and secondary air controls • Externally controllable riddle system •T Teriary eriary air supply • Radiant heat output • Metallic paint finish • Tak Takes log lengths up to 250mm / 10� • 125mm (5�) top or rear flue connection • CE Approval to standard BS EN 13240 • Suitable for use in Smoke Control Areas, as recommended by DEFRA
£2749.99 PARADA ELITE ILLUMIA PARAD • Easy to install • Multi-functional remote control with thermostatic and timer functions • Choice of black enamel or vermiculite fire back • Beautiful Portuguese Limestone surround • Decorative Halogen Down lights
or save ÂŁ100 with this advert
Call now on 0116 3667766
All About Living Ltd, 68 - 70 Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 0RD *Prices correct at time of printing and subject to change without notice. *Prices Terms erms & conditions apply apply..
12
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
•
Incl. Door furniture in chrome or brass
•
WM02H, WM01H and the WM50 are fitted with frosted glass
Create your dream garden building with
TM
Garden Buildings
3 UP TO
YEARS
INTEREST FREE
APR REPRESENTATIVE
We have a massive range of sheds, garages, summerhouses, garden studios, log cabins, playhouses, greenhouses, tool stores and more. We have the largest selection of quality garden buildings in the county with over a 100 on display.
o@grobyspotlight.co.uk
We are unrivalled for excellent garden buildings and offer a professional and friendly service.
Learning Campus We have built up a unique reputation for quality and design.
Bench’ Competition
Bentley`s Garden Buildings can be found on the A6 Leicester to Loughborough road just 4 miles from the northern edge of the city.
Creating your dream garden building is now more affordable. With deposits starting from only 10%, you can spread the payments for up to 3 years.
1 2 3 YEAR INTEREST FREE
*With a deposit of 10% £1000 minimum spend
t
YEARS INTEREST FREE
*With a deposit of 20% £2000 minimum spend
YEARS INTEREST FREE
*With a deposit of 30% £3000 minimum spend
BENTLEYSGARDENBUILDINGS.co.uk
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Authorised and regulated by the Finance Conduct Authority. Bentley`s Garden Buildings Limited, Loughborough Road, Wanlip, Leics, LE7 4PN (Company Number: 4807454) acts as a credit broker and not the lender and only offers products from Barclays Partner Finance. Barclays Partner Finance is the lender. Barclays Partner Finance is a trading name of Clydesdale Financial Services Limited a wholly owned subsidiary of Barclays Bank PLC. Clydesdale Financial Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register number 311753) Registered in England. Registered No 2901725. Registered office: 1 Churchill Place, London. E14 5HP.
10
SAVE 10% WITH THIS ADVERT t
BENTLEYSGARDENBUILDINGS.co.uk
Save 10% on your first order with Norwood Press, Quote Your Local. Maximum saving £50, Offer ends 31st March 2018, Terms and conditions apply
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
13
Emma Hallam Charity Founder and Alex’s Mum says “Please come and join in… you’ll get your healthy dose of fresh air, enjoy spectacular views around the stunning Charnwood Forest whilst cycling for an incredibly worthwhile cause. It’s a fabulous opportunity to get back into cycling again after the winter months, so whether or not you are a keen cyclist, there’s never been a better time to dust of your bike in time for the summer months.
• CHA
E D
2018
10
MILES
EARLY BIRD £10
LE R YC I C
Every mile cycled brings us closer to a cure The Charnwood Forest Cycle Ride is back again for its 8th year running. With up to 300 cyclists taking part each year, the organisers Alex’s Wish are pleased to announce it will be taking place on Sunday, 13th May. This year’s main sponsors are Flowers Associates and Next, with additional sponsorship from Nisa (Bradleys store) in Rothley, The Woodmans Stroke Pub in Rothley, United Carpets and Jay Webb Consultancy with Pedal Power as the on-site bike specialists.
O NW OD R
OREST F
Charnwood Forest Cycle Ride returns for its 8th year
20 MILES
EARLY BIRD £20
SUNDAY 13TH MAY
8AM – 9AM START ROTHLEY CENTRE VILLAGE HALL
50 MILES
EARLY BIRD £25
HOT/COLD REFRESHMENTS HALF-WAY REFRESHMEN
TS
All proceeds goes to ALEX’S WISH to help conquer a childhood life-shortening muscle wasting condition Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, every mile brings us closer
to a cure. We have a 10-mile, 20-mile and a 50-mile cycle route. The 10-mile route will provide an entry level REGISTER ONLINE: WWW.ALEX SWISH.CO.UK distance for first time participants, whilst the 50-mile route will be a longer and more challenging Early Bird price until 30/04/18 route for those who want to push themselves further and the 20 and 50 mile includes a steep climb up Beacon Hill road. There are plenty of marshals along the way to give you lots of moral support and encouragement. We are incredibly well supported locally and it’s always nice to see our supporters out and about on their bikes, having fun and raising much needed funds for Alex’s Wish,” adds Emma. PEDALPOWER
Registered Charity no: 1148845
The start and finish line is at The Rothley Centre in Rothley, Leicestershire with the route taking place on open roads. “The route is well sign-posted,” explains Emma, “and because the event takes place on a Sunday morning the roads tend to be quiet with traffic. At the end, you’ll be treated to complimentary yummy home cake cakes and refreshments – a perfect thought to get you through the ride.” This is a sponsored ride in aid of Alex’s Wish, a registered charity set-up to raise vital funds for an incurable childhood muscle wasting disease called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Alex’s Wish are investing in innovative medical breakthroughs to help all children lead a longer and more fulfilled life with the aim to finding a cure. All money that is raised through registration fees and sponsorship goes direct to this fantastic cause. The event organisers would also welcome volunteers to marshal and help out with refreshments on the day. If you are unable to ride but would like to help, please get in touch. To register for this fantastic and worthwhile cause, take advantage of the discounted early-bird entry fee to register before 30th April – the easiest and quickest way to so register is at www.alexswish.co.uk/event/charnwood-forest-cycle-ride or email zoe@alexswish.co.uk Alex’s Wish is a registered charity no: 1148845. For further information, please contact Emma Hallam – emma@alexswish.co.uk – 07903 349475
SAFE • EFFICIENT • PROFESSIONAL
• RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CLEANING • FULLY INSURED • FRIENDLY LOCAL COMPANY Using Pure Water, We Clean: Gutters and Fascias, Barge Boards, Windows & Conservatories, Garage Doors Our Chimney Sweeping Services: Power & Traditional Brush Sweeping, Stove Cleaning & Servicing, Door Seal & Rope Replacement, Smoke Testing, Cowl Fitment To make your booking or for more information, please call:
T: 01530 510833 - M: 07572122236 www.5starguttercleaning.co.uk
5 Star Gutter Cleaning Services Ltd
14
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society Spring Play 2018 Many of our regular audience members will be aware of our imminent move from our long standing venue at Highcliffe Primary School due to the school building shortly due to be rebuilt. We have been able to secure a new local venue for our Spring Play, which will enable us to continue to offer you the enjoyable performances that you have come to expect. We have had many years of tremendous support from the local community (and those living further away too) and we want to ensure that we are easily accessible for you to continue to support us. It would be wonderful to see the familiar faces in our audience, and hopefully our move will bring in additional audience members who, I am sure, will want to return for years to come.
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY FRIENDLY FILM SHOW LAUREL & HARD HARDY Y TUESDAY TUESDA AY APRIL 10TH 2.30PM-4.30PM £5 FEARON HALL Rectory Road, Loughborough
Includes e, tea, coffes, biscuit ice cream
n
per perso
Enjoy a classic movie from the golden age of cinema in our regular film show for people living with dementia. Make new friends and enjoy a chat in a calm, safe environment, supported by dementia trained staff.
The details of this productions new venue can be found at the end of this article. This year’s Spring Play “What a Mix Up” will incorporate 2 one-act comedies. Both of these plays are “by arrangement with Lazy Bee Scripts” Two Weddings and a Conference: by Karen Doling A double-booked wedding reception at a hotel causes havoc for the brides, grooms, manager, receptionist and the attendees of a conference that is supposed to be happening at the same time! However, it soon transpires that the double booking is not the only coincidence they will have to deal with! Does this compare to any wedding you have ever been to?
Book your place T: 01509 230629 E: bookings@fearonhall.org.uk Referrals welcome
JOIN THE BUZZ AT www.fearonhall.org.uk
B & B: by Bob Tucker It’s opening week for the Bay View Bed and Breakfast, but the owners aren’t getting the idyllic escape from the rat race they hoped for. Guests are leaving as fast as they arrive and the demands are almost as bizarre as the pets and habits of the ones who try to stay! And does this compare to any B & B you have ever stayed in? Venue:
Birstall Social Club, 16-18 Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS
Dates:
Thursday 17th and Friday 18th May 7.30pm. (Doors open at 7.00pm)
Tickets: £6.00 adults £5.00 concession. £20.00 for family tickets (2 adults and 2 children) Discount for group bookings of 10 or more people (price available at time of booking). Tickets available from the box office: 0116 2216019 or 07963 432020 or by email at hatstickets@hotmail.com.
NEXT ISSUE OUT Wednesday 18th April 2018 t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
15
Problems With Your Feet?
Your Local Gas & Plumbing Specialist
Home Visits & Cropston Surgery
SPRING SPECIAL!
Ingrowing Toenails Fungal Corns Callous Verrucae
FREE TRVs with all *
Central Heating installs * if
Johanna Partridge
booked in by the end of May 2018
(maximum 6 thermostatic radiator valves per installation)
MCFHP MAFHP
Foot Health Practitioner CALL 0116 235 1971 or 0788 781 7370
Call today to book a FREE no obligation quote *
or for more information
0116 2303 234 info@mgas.co.uk • www.mgas.co.uk
145958
*(!* && + #%1 -# $ +"
+"#'! "#' .-* )#' )
% ( ) #,1 "#, *(!** && +
,
#+"/ +" * % ,,#'!+ *(!* && + #& % 1 (#+ . %
,
-#%, #' #'!% . ' % ,*#
, ,*+ , #'% ++ + , % ' ++#+,
)# /# ! )) '+ $,. $1.0&#. "#0 ')/ "
Over 30 Years Experience Friendly Local Business
*(!* && +
+"#'! "#' .-* )#' )
% ( ) #,1 #' +, -%% ( *(!* && +
,
'00#" '0!&#+ +/
LANDSCAPING LTD
16
+"#'! "#' .-* * )#' )
(% ( ) #,1
, 0)* ++ +"
),* #.%
# .# -)# /#" 0, ++,1 1+!# 0& 0 2# .# +,2 %#+0/ / $,.
'0!&#+/ +" #"., ,,*/ &, /-#!' )'/# '+ #/-,(# * "# 0, *# /1.# ('0!&#+ #".,,* $1.+'01.#
A B ADCOCK
+"#'! "#' .-* )#' ) (% ( ) #,1
,
Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals
#
" ! " $
Specialising in:
Fencing/Gates
Decking
Block Paving
Turfing
Gravelling
Driveways
Patios/Walls
Small Trees Pruned
For a fast FREE quotation Ring Andy on
0116 267 6948 / 0781 657 3461 24-Hour Answer Phone Worcester Avenue, Birstall
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
Events for Spring 2018 An interesting programme of events is planned for Spring 2018. Please come along and support your local Wildlife Trust, meet like-minded people and enjoy chatting about your wildlife experiences. Regular indoor meetings are held in Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall on the second Wednesday of every month from September to May starting at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 for LRWT members, £3 for visitors, (children free), including refreshments. Wednesday April 11th 2018 at 7.30pm in Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall Dragonflies and your Garden A talk by Claire Install, Senior Conservation Officer at LRWT and former Conservation Officer for the British Dragonfly Society. Claire will talk about dragonflies’ life cycles and behaviour, what you can do to attract dragonflies to your garden and also describe some of the species that may visit your garden. (There will also be an additional walk in the summer, details to follow) Wednesday May 9th 2018 at 7.30pm in Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall The Cayman Islands Mat Cottam, the new Reserve Manager at Rutland Water will give an illustrated talk about his previous job in the Cayman Islands. He started volunteering on RSPB and Wildlife Trust reserves around the U.K. Since then Mat’s career in conservation has Cayman working first taken him far and wide. He spent ten years in the Islands, for the National Trust, and later for the Department of their Environment, establishing Terrestrial Ecology Unit.
June 8th-9th – BioBlitz 2 – Woodhouse Parish’s second BioBlitz, starting with a bat 8th at 9pm. Activities walk/talk at St Paul’s Church, Woodhouse Eaves on Friday for all the family around the two villages all day on Saturday 9th based in Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall
June 16th/17th – Wildlife Weekend at Bradgate Park, with many local wildlife organisations & fun for everyone!
!&'$' 2 $(
*"'+$ "( $ ! )"' # "$ '%& ) !&
*'( & ,1 & :9699 % 8 :;&''&
#$ & & $ $ ! *"'$ ")! #&"# & "$ $&
! * 4 / "$ ''%5 2+,'& '1& '/& "$
"! "! ) & *"' "$ ( " "! "'$
'%%/&",2 &,* 5 !''$ ,65 2+,'& = :
( %
",! %'* & %'* + *0" + &'1 " ", $ 2 /$,5
"$ "$ ! "$ & "!
7+ ! *&1'' *'# , * +/(('*-& ( '($ '0 * <9 1",! )/ +-'&+ '* )/ *" + "& * $ -'& ,' .& '&$"& -
33
52 29363
Call L ee on 0116 359 3100
SERVICING has 30 items Aver A verage appliance checked, adjusted and cleaned
Landlord rd electronic electrronic cerrtifica tificates with email/text ext rreminder eminder service available ilable
REPAIRS PAIRS FIX X PRICE GUARANTEED D
Fully insured
Installations,, Free Quotations
ERP Boilers frrom om ÂŁ1250 plus VA AT T
5,7 and 10 years warranties
25 years of experience
www.ignitegasltd.co.uk
During the very cold months of January and February, local pub firm Steamin Billy, offered free hot meals to over 200 older people through local charity Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland. The outings were enjoyed across six of the Steamin Billy pubs with a fantastic response with one of the diners commenting â&#x20AC;&#x153;it was lovely to talk about normal things and get out for a while and we must do this againâ&#x20AC;?. Tony Donovan, Executive Director of Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;it is vitally important for older people, particularly during these colder, bleaker months of the year to have something to look forward to and Steamin Billy have been fantastic in providing over 200 hot meals for our local older people. We are extremely grateful for their generosityâ&#x20AC;?. The lunches were not only enjoyed by older people but also by their carers including local veterans and it was a great opportunity to come together and chat about their experiences in the Second World War including the D-Day landings! Wendy Gamble from Steamin Billy Group said â&#x20AC;&#x153;we wanted to do something to help older people in our area so Billy Allingham contacted our local Age UK to see if we could help them. We have been thrilled with the response and we are pleased that so many older people enjoyed an afternoon out on us in a safe, warm and friendly environment with great food and great companyâ&#x20AC;?.
GOT AN ARTICLE TO SEND US? We are always on the lookout for local news. Please send articles to: yourlocal@ openboxpromotions.co.uk
Martin Tibbles
"!& & ! && ( $ "!
Steamin Billy provides over 200 free hot meals for local older people
Check us out on
/ignitegasservices vices
PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES
Excellent references available Interior exterior
0116 291 0489 07855 412 945
Quality Workmanship Guaranteed 30 Yrs Exp.
Free estimates and advice given
t: 0800 6446 150 â&#x20AC;˘ e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
17
Give it a Grow: Seeds I am very grateful to my family, especially memories with great grandparents, for giving me a love and respect of nature. They would revel in the delights each season brought. At this time of year, that interest would come through searching out the “first” snow drop or daffodil. I now have that same sense of anticipation and none more so than when winter turns to spring. In February and March, I begin to emerge from a kind of self-imposed hibernation, meaning that I’ve chosen to let the garden ‘sleep’ and had a break from garden related jobs. However, the ‘break’, is purely a physical one, as my mind never really switches off from ‘planning’ what I want to see growing in the garden next year. As the spring bulbs begin their display in the gardens, it reminds me of one of the pleasures of gardening, which for me is simply, to ‘watch things grow’. It is at this time of year that my ‘overwinter planning’ can begin; in the form of seed sowing. If you too are considering sowing some seeds, now is the time to start, (i.e. on a windowsill), and a tip I use, is to begin with ‘the plate’. Think about what food you enjoy eating and imagine it on your plate; home grown, picked seconds ago, fresh, from the garden, plant pot or window box. Maybe it would be lettuce leaves (so many ‘cut and come again’ varieties to choose from) or peas; tomatoes or runner beans; radishes or spring onions. I’ve had variable success with all the above and can highly recommend the whole process to you; from seed to plate, well mouth, actually! Another tip, which I find harder to follow, is to ‘start small’. Plants do need ‘tending’, so focusing on one or two crops at a time can ensure that they thrive; providing you with quantity, as well as quality. Once you’ve decided and bought the seeds of your chosen edible [organic is best], follow the instructions on the packet. Seeds are amazing, in that they contain all the nutrients they need to germinate. Therefore, they need ‘nutrient poor soil’ to start off with, hence ‘seed compost’. Remember to plant in a pot with holes for drainage, and provide them with water, warmth and light, keeping the soil moist, but not too wet. Then, look out for shoots to emerge. Eventually, you may even see roots coming through the bottom of the pot. Once the seedlings have got at least 4 (or 2 sets) of leaves, they can be planted on. Plant them into bigger pots, with ‘richer soil’, which will feed the roots, to produce strong and healthy plants. Whether you ‘give it a grow’ this season or not, do take a moment to notice the spring bulbs in flower and maybe even make a note of any you’d like in your garden next spring, which you would need to buy and plant this autumn!…And so the seasons go…. Leicestershire Masters Gardeners, is a volunteer scheme, run by ‘Garden Organic’, training and supporting their volunteers to promote the benefits of ‘growing your own food’, equipping them to provide advice and support to people in their local neighbourhood.
gently dry y
CHA ITY CHARITY
CAR B BOOT OT SALE 24th MARCH
11AM-3PM
Refreshments, BBQ and Ices Available
Ad u Kid lts: s: 5 £ 1 de op r 5 ’’s
Un
s F RE
E
NO NEW GO OODS! contact us o on: 0116 224 24 244 2 40 0 w ods woodside ds s de an animal n centre en ntre tr 190 Scudamore udamore dam Road, Leicester, t ter, LE3 1UQ
For more information visit: www.leicestershire.mastergardeners.org.uk
Made to measure blinds including Roman, vertical, pleated and venetians. Rollers including Night and Day. Perfect Fit blinds in venetian, roller or pleated. Roof light blinds including Velux and Keylite. We offer expert advice in the comfort of your own home
Contact Caroline Thompson Telephone 01509 821016 - Mobile 0795 1619046 acacia@acacia-blinds.co.uk - www.acacia-blinds.co.uk
18
t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk
The Easy Way to the Perfect Fitted Bedroom or Fitted Office 10 Year No-Quibble Guarantee
One call to Swift Fitted Furniture and we’ll arrange a no obligation estimate to make the most of your bedroom or home office space. Friendly service and professional fitting - for less than you’d think.
Call Paul
Tel: 0116 246 0686 to find out more today
MOT YOUR CAR IN BIRSTALL We offer exceptional levels of expertise and service and we have the very latest diagnostics equipment. All at a fraction of dealer costs. ALL MAKES AND MODELS - MINI & SAAB SPECIALIST
MOT Your Car For Only
£35.00
Coupon Valid Until 31/5/2018 - “local”
MOT ONLY £25 When Booked With A Full Service ANY FULL SERVICE Coupon Valid Until 31/5/2018 - “local”
CUT OUT THESE VOUCHERS TO USE NEXT TIME YOUR CAR IS DUE FOR IT’S MOT
Bond Street Car Service 8 Coal Cart Road, The Interchange, Birstall, Leicester LE4 3BY OPENING TIMES Mon - Fri 8am - 5.30pm - Sat 8.30am - 12.30pm - Sun Closed
0116 262 7787
Email: service@bondstreetcarservice.com Website: www.bondstreetcarservice.co.uk