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14,000 Copies Delivered by contract with Royal Mail Every 2 Months (Approx. 7,000 Per Month) to Homes And Businesses In: Sileby, Mountsorrel, Seagrave, Cossington, Walton On The Wolds, Quorn, Barrow Upon Soar, Woodhouse Eaves & Swithland.
ISSUE 13. APRIL/MAY 2013
Happy First Birthday Soar Valley Life
PRICELESS Your Independent Community Magazine & Business Directory
Copy deadline for May issue Tuesday 30th April
Your FULL COLOUR magazine and business directory
Sileby and Mountsorrel Edi on Please visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for full distribu on details and media pack
Featured inside: Compe on Cycling Country Walk Recipe Weddings Health & Fitness Puzzles
Swithland GCR Steam Gala
Kilworth House Theatre presents ‘My Fair Lady’
– Win a Meal for Two worth £50
Centre Page
Page 19
Page 3
FREE Compe on
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Doesn’t me fly? It’s our first birthday this month and look how far we’ve come... In Issue number 3, back in June last year, a er we’d delivered the magazine over our chosen area (with a lot of help from our friends!) we calculated that the total mileage to deliver a magazine to every address in LE12 7 and LE12 8 was 389 miles. By the me issue number 12 dropped through doors Soar Valley Life had travelled nearly 2,500 miles! Travelling due east that would get us to the Caspian sea on the other side of Turkey; south we’d get to Africa’s Nigerian and Mali border, north we’d almost be at the north pole and west (and up a bit) we’d make landfall in Canada at the Gulf of Saint Lawrence! Not bad for a li le magazine that takes it’s name from a ny river that’s only a couple of dozen miles in length, end to end. But the credit for the distribu on, a er those first two months when we did it ourselves, goes en rely to our valiant post men and women. They have, in one of the we est years on record through all kinds of wild and windy weather, got the magazine to your le erbox, month in and month out. With our first birthday now upon us we’ve been reviewing things and had considered changing from the Royal Mail to a local distribu on company. We are happy with the Post Office, but do find the lead mes we have to give them hold us back a bit ; this forces us to think quite a long way ahead, meaning we can’t be as reac ve as we’d like. Also, we want to expand our distribu on to include some of the villages north of Loughborough like Burton on the Wolds, Su on Bonington and Hathern, together with those in the south to take in Rothley, Cropston and Thurcaston. But it’s not that easy to find a guaranteed source of delivery. (The Royal Mail, although guaranteed to be the most reliable, will only deliver to a whole postcode area.) Taking note of other magazines deliveries, we’ve no ced inconsistencies with some; we know for sure that we are the only magazine which uses the best in the business and we do this because we aim to be the best at what we do in the area we serve. We feel very strongly about ge ng the magazine to every address that we say it’s going to a er all, it doesn’t ma er one iota about anything else if the magazine doesn’t get to you! So, for the bulk of our delivery we’re s cking with the good old tried and trusted pos es and we’ll explore ways to deliver to the new areas ourselves. Perhaps we’ll get a couple of those amazing electric bikes from Fosse Electric Bikes (see page 11) a er we’ve got fit again at Physfit Gyms (page 29) and Zumba’d ourselves slim with Venia (page 16) then got our minds on task at Reed Wellbeing (page 17) and got our feet sorted out by Gareth Hudson (page 14) or HS Foot Care Services (page 29). Anyway, watch this space; perhaps we’ll be sending out an SOS for help in delivering to our new areas. You can keep a daily check on what we’re up to on our Facebook page go to Soar Valley Life via Facebook. Our website is updated every few days with new adver sers, our walks, recipes and, as me goes on, our photos, ar cles and business features. To have a look go to: www.soarvalleylife.co.uk Bye for now we’re off to eat some birthday cake!
Steve & Mary Johns
Editors Soar Valley Life Page 2
Ornamental Cherry in Sileby Memorial Park, April 22nd 2009
Contents
Compe on Win a Meal for Two Contact Lenses and UV Light Ashby Fake Fes val Star ng your own Business? Quiz – Days of the Week Ge ng the Right Gear The World is my Oyster Happy Motoring General Knowledge Crossword The Importance of Breathing ‘Properly’ Strawberries and... Créme de la Créme! Finding that Perfect Dress A en on to Detail The Ides of March Living Together This Pub is the Hub Arthri s and Physiotherapy Walking West Leake Hills Loughborough Canal & Boat Fes val Mixing – not Matching Recipe for Success in Business Soar Valley’s Oldest Company? Recipe Lemon Lush Spot the Difference Top Tips by Charnwood Maintenance Ragdale Experience Day Winner Answers to Puzzles
3 4 6 8 9 10 11 12 15 17 18 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 33 35 36 37 38 39 39
Copyright © Fantas c State Limited trading as Soar Valley Life. The Publisher reserves and controls all rights to the work presented in this magazine. Any applica on for any use of any of the work, features, adver sements, quota ons, photographs, images or other work within this publica on must be made directly to the publisher. No part of this publica on may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmi ed, in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher.
Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates
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Soar Valley Life Business Directory Small Landscapes & Paving Soar Valley Aerials The Oven Cleaning Company Whelband Windows
13 14 17 21
29
Motoring MG Execu ve Car Hire
12
6 22 19 20
Professional Services Baker & Co. Accountants CP Accountancy Ltd Crea vio Video Produc on Emery Johnson Solicitors In Home Legal Services Moss Solicitors October House Life Assurance Rebecca Soanes Photography Strawberry Le ngs and Sales Words and Graphics – Prin ng & Sta onery Services
Builders Merchants John A Stephens Wanlip Sand and Gravel
39 34
Child Care Parkside Nursery School Entertainment Ashby DLZ Fes vals Ltd Jan Jack’s Perfect Verse Kilworth House Theatre Swithland Steam Gala Health Care Ac vity 4all Charnwood Hearing Aid Centre Gareth Hudson – Foot Health Professional HS Footcare Services Reed Wellbeing Complementary Health Visual Answers Op cians / Optometrists Walkin Physio Ltd
14 14 14 29 17 5 27
Home and Garden Acacia Curtains and Blinds AMW Kitchens Carpets of Choice Charnwood Maintenance Services Charnwood Tree Services Dave Keen Professional Decorator Delta Aerials Doortronic – Remote Controlled Garage Doors Harrison Landscaping Kingswood Design & Interiors Lo Storage Solu ons KR Electrical Neil Philips Interiors RJB Plumbing Richard Watson Decorator SJS Professional Carpet Cleaner
31 17 7 38 31 16 16 9 15 27 8 16 36 16 12 9
32 8 22 12 29 25 16 23 18 23
Pubs, Restaurants & Catering Rock ‘n’ Rolls The Queen Victoria The White Horse Inn
29 37 26
Residen al Care The Abbeyfield
14
Sports and Leisure Cyclops Cycles Fosse Electric Bikes Physfit Gyms Pillings Lock Marina Ltd Stealth Academy Mar al Arts Zumba Fitness
10 11 29 40 6 16
Timber Merchants George Walker Ltd
34
For your chance to win a meal for two at the White Horse Inn, Seagrave, worth £50.00, just answer the following ques on: ‘What is the ownbrand name of the pickles and preserves sold in the shop at the White Horse Inn, Seagrave?’ Email your answer, together with your name address and telephone number, to editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk or post to Soar Valley Life, 1 Burton Road, Sileby, Leicestershire LE12 7RU
WIN
a meal for two
see ar cle on page 26
The winner will be drawn at random from all correct answers received by the closing date of 30th April 2013 Terms and condi ons apply. Editor’s decision is final.
email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert
Page 3
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Contact Lenses and UV Light
Contact lenses that let the sun in but that block harmful UV rays
Researchers have linked exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light to the forma on of cataracts. This is a condi on when the clear lens inside the eye gradually becomes cloudy causing a loss of vision even blindness. That's why some of the latest contact lenses now contain a UVblocking filter in them. You can't tell if your contact lens has a UV filter just by looking at it – your contact lens packaging may specify if the product has a UV filter but your optometrist will be the best person to let you know. UVblocking contact lenses are not meant to replace your sunglasses. Most contact lenses only cover your cornea – this is the clear window at the front of your eye. However, UVblocking contact lenses will help to protect some por on of the white part of the front of your eye too (called the sclera) that can form ny fa y growth lumps known as Page 4
pingueculae due to aging changes and UV light exposure. Sunglasses are very popular with contact lens wearers and a good quality sunglass lens with UV protec on will cover more of your eye and also protect the delicate skin and facial ssue that surround your eyes, depending on the size and fit of the sunglasses chosen. UV blocking contact lenses are designed to complement your sunglasses and will provide an important added protec on to the most precious of all your senses – your sight! Mohammed Bhojani BSc (Hons) MC Optom is the principal optometrist at Visual Answers Op cians based in Quorn (01509) 414151 and Barrow upon Soar (01509) 416800 near Loughborough. VisualAnswers.co.uk
Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125
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Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 6
Ashby Fake Fes val 8th June 2013
Acclaimed tribute bands and local support acts hi ng the region for a second me thanks to local licensee... Ashby de la Zouch Fake Fes val’s
“Due to the success of the lineup this year includes The Fillers, Ashby Fake Fes val in 2012, Flash (Queen tribute) and The Jam’d we have something to live up to and maintain,” says fes val licensee Lee Storey. “We've put together another great event, with three superb tributes to cover everybody's music tastes plus five local support bands. Ticket sales have already had an unbelievable start and we can’t wait to be back in Ashby!” With more places ge ng to enjoy some great live music courtesy of a fes val rolling up right on their doorstep and some incredible new tribute acts lined up like Flash to boot, this year’s tour is already shaping up to be the best yet. Hosted inside the Fake Fes val marquee, boas ng a main stage with a state of the art sound and ligh ng system, 2013 will see Fake Fes vals visi ng more places in the UK than ever before. Next year sees the Fake Fes val coming to Loughborough.
Box Office 0800 652 2852 Tickets online www.fakefes vals.co.uk
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Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue? Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk
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Good choice of rugs always available in store
Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 8
Star ng your own business?
CP Accountancy Ltd
by Caroline Parnell of CP Accountancy, Rothley Are you thinking of taking the plunge and star ng your own business? If yes, make sure you are aware of what you must do. First of all decide the en ty in which you will trade. The most common business structures are soletrader, partnership and limited company and I would urge you seek professional advice as to which one will suit you best in order to avoid any costly mistakes in the future. Your must register with HM Revenue & Customs for taxes straight away in order to avoid incurring any penal es. If you are thinking of employing someone you will also require a PAYE scheme. Registering for VAT may also be something you have to consider although during the 2012/13 tax year the compulsory registra on threshold is £77,000. Whichever en ty you choose you will be expected to maintain proper records of all your trading ac vi es and prepare a set of accounts a er each accoun ng year end upon which your tax and na onal insurance liability will be calculated.
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Quiz – Days of the Week 1. According to the popular nursery rhyme, if Monday’s child is fair of face, then what is Friday’s child? 2. Which literary character frees a cap ve who he names Friday and who becomes his companion? 3. Which annual health awareness day first took place on Ash Wednesday in 1984? 4. “Cyber Monday” is a term used in the UK to refer to the busiest internet shopping day of the year. Does this normally fall on the first, second or third Monday in December? 5. On which day of the week is Thanksgiving Day celebrated in the U.S.A.? 6. Which series of celebra ons has a name that translates as “fat Tuesday”? 7. According to the famous poem, what happened to Solomon Grundy on a Thursday? 8. What is the only day of the week not men oned in the lyrics of the Beatles song Lady Madonna? 9. What name is given to the Chris an feast that falls one week before Easter? 10. What was the first UK number one hit single to feature a day of the week in the tle? Answers on page 39
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Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates
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Ge ng the right gear... At the best li le bike shop in the world! Don’t just take my word for it either. Paul and Yvonne Cockbill (pronounced Co Bill like the Co in Cockburn’s fine vintage port) owners of Cyclops Cycles on Melton Road in Syston, will be only too pleased to show you around their ‘Aladdin's Cave’. They stock every kind of bike: mountain, roadster, sport, crossway (I hadn’t heard of that one either) kiddies, and shoppers. And if, like me, you want to see and touch what you’re going to buy which of course you can’t do on the internet there’s also all sorts of accessories and cycle wear. They stock helmets, padded shorts, gloves, goggles, lights, maps, spanners, tyres, panniers, bags and so on and so on. But I must say there doesn’t seem to have been much change to the basics over the years, since those halcyon cycling days of my youth. I mean they s ll have two wheels, brakes and gears don’t they? “Actually,’ says Paul, ‘there have been huge strides in the development of the bike over the last twenty five years. The biggest thing was indexed gears which allowed for very accurate gear changing, leading to the advent of the off road mountain bike. You need very low gears for successful riding off road and the introduc on in the eigh es of Shimano indexed derailleur gears took bikes to where they couldn’t go before. Brakes too, are far more efficient now, needing much less adjustment from week to week. Frames are lighter and stronger and new polymers have made seats a lot more comfortable. LED lights are far brighter and lighter and longer las ng than they ever were. Of course, bikes are s ll a mechanical device and need a bit of TLC now and again. And we have everything needed to provide a full a er sales service for every bike and every customer, whatever your level of interest...” So, pop along and have a chat to Paul or Yvonne; they’ll make you feel very welcome indeed! Paul Cockbill in his workshop at Cyclops Cycles, Melton Road, Syston
Page 10
1120 Melton Road, Syston
0116 260 8500
2013 MERIDA BIKES now in stock with prices starting from £299 A few 2012 models still available at SALE prices.
ALTURA & MERIDA clothing Now In Stock. GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE 10% DEPOSIT SECURES A BIKE UNTIL REQUIRED
Cyclescheme ‘Tax Free Bikes’ Member
SPARES & REPAIRS
Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue? Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk
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The World is my Oyster once more... I used to love cycling; I remember ge ng my first bike one Christmas enabling me to live the dream of freedom and escape... For a decade or more in my growing up years my bike was by far my best and most trusted ally. It took me miles away from the constraints of school, college and family; it allowed me to earn my own money for the first me delivering newspapers, groceries, meat and medicines and it helped me to find myself and the beauty of the East Midlands countryside. Then with adulthood came work, a mortgage and kids; the bike grew rusty and the pounds piled on, un l now, at the other end of my working life I look back and wonder what happened. The mo va on to get back on a bike and re kindle those bygone joys gets no further than looking in the bike shop window and mu ering, “One day…” I have hired a bike on holiday, only to find that stamina and energy, so boundless in my teens, no longer resides in me and going up a hill means ge ng off and pushing. But now I’ve discovered Fosse Electric Bikes and power assist! I’ve had a test drive on three different bikes; the EBCO Low Step like the one in the advert opposite the DASH Folding bike in the pictures below and a mountain bike. I was amazed by how easy it was; I could go uphill in a high gear with no trouble at all, just on level 3 power assist. On the thro le I needed to do nothing but steer. I felt completely safe and in full control. There’s a 15.5 mph limit so that you won’t find yourself in difficulty whilst powered, but switch the power off and you are as free as a bird! My imagina on is taking over now, I especially fancy the folding op on. I could get two, side by side in our Ford Focus. Rutland Water, the Derbyshire Dales, the Cotswolds…
We could drive there in an hour or so, have a few hours leisurely cycling, enjoy a ernoon tea and be home again early evening! The world, once again, really can be our oyster...
The latest DASH Electric Folding bike: up to 60 mile range. 5 levels of pedal assist, plus full drive just like riding a bike, only easier!
Try before you buy: The full range of electric bikes tourers, mountain and folding bikes at Fosse Electric Bikes
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Happy Motoring
by Mike Eames of M.G. Executive Cars Most of my journeys take me to the London area which means I see a lot of the motorway network south of the Soar Valley. Over a number of years improvements have been taking place on the M1 between Milton Keynes and Luton. Thankfully these are now complete but you might well ask, ‘What have they done?’ The major change is the ability to use the hard shoulder as an extra lane at peak mes. This stretch of motorway is monitored by cameras situated every few hundred metres, so the hard shoulder can be opened and closed depending on the flow of traffic. When the lane is open there will always be a mandatory speed restric on. What happens if a breakdown occurs while the hard shoulder is open? Firstly, new layby refuges have been created every half a mile or so which hopefully the motorist can reach. If they can’t, operators monitoring the road cameras will be able to see the problem and close the lane instantly by displaying informa on on the overhead gantries. Be warned – don’t get caught out I have seen drivers use the hard shoulder when it is closed. Signs on the gantry clearly show when this extra lane is open. Do the improvements work? Well, on the whole I think they do, the traffic does seem to flow be er. I now use the M1 more rather than finding an alterna ve route but regardless of the improvements there are s ll mes of conges on at rush hour. If you have the luxury of being flexible, the main mes to avoid the M1 are Monday morning going south and Friday a ernoon coming north. Where does the term ‘hard shoulder’ come from? This is a ques on many foreign travellers ask me and I can’t give them an answer. If you happen to know – please could you tell me?
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email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert
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Before you start designing your garden or driveway you need a landscape gardener with it all, so the finished garden is exactly what you imagined it would be – then it is truly yours. Do you want a beautiful, manicured, low maintenance garden to enjoy in your retirement, a contemporary garden which extends your living space when entertaining guests or a classic garden design where you can spend some quality time with the family? We want to know. We have the answer. We want to give you just what you want.
How do I know that the finished design will be just what I wanted?
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• Independent care home and sheltered accommodation on separate sites
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Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue? Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk
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General Knowledge Crossword
©puzzlepress.co.uk
Across 1 Tradi onal story (4) 3 Woman’s hairstyle in which the hair has a puffy appearance (8) 9 Place of complete bliss, delight and peace (7) 10 Imperial units of length (5) 11 Day in spring on which the Resurrec on is celebrated (6,6) 14 Uncertain es, doub ul factors, ___ and buts (3) 16 Devo onal pain ngs of Christ or other holy figures (5) 17 To stretch out (3) 18 Trendse ng fashions (5,7) 21 Civilian dress worn by a military person (5) 22 Lever operated with the foot (7) 23 Climbing garden plant having fragrant flowers (5,3) 24 Land force of a na on (4)
Down 1 Item of food associated with Christmas (5,3) 2 Divisions of the school year (5) 4 Female reproduc ve cells (3) 5 Vehicle of extraterrestrial origin (6,6) 6 Land area, especially of a farm (7) 7 Flip (a coin, for example) (4) 8 Popular tourist area in northwestern England (4,8) 12 Unemo onal person (5) 13 Graveyard (8) 15 Horse’s bit (7) 19 Mammary gland of bovids (5) 20 Tori ___, singer whose albums include American Doll Posse (4) 22 Quoits target (3)
Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates
Answers on page 39
Page 15
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Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 17
The importance of breathing ‘properly’ For physical and emotional wellbeing
Complementary Health Practitioner REFLEXOLOGY Relieving stress using gentle pressure strategically applied to your hands and feet, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health - especially where conventional medicine has failed. REIKI Holistic healing helping to integrate your body’s physical, emotional, mental and spiritual components by balancing your energy centres, stimulating natural immunity and promoting relaxation. HOPI EAR CANDLING Reduces congestion in the ear and sinus area inducing a feeling of general tranquillity, composure and comfort. EFT ‘Acupuncture without needles’ creating balance within your body’s energy system, particularly successful with addictions, weight, pain, anger management, severe trauma, stress and phobias. Paula Reed is a member of the NHS Directory of Complementary and Alternative Practitioners All treatments delivered in my professionally appointed clinic in Barrow-upon-Soar
Telephone: 01509 415125 Email: info@reedwellbeing.co.uk Website: www.reedwellbeing.co.uk
Kitchens Fitted • Kitchens and worktops supplied at trade prices • Having invested in your dream kitchen ensure that it is fitted to an exacting standard • Worktop replacements, pelmet/cornice only through to full kitchen fits • Granite supplied and fitted • Gas Safe plumber Please call Andy Webb on
07904 987234 / 01509 414484 www.amw-kitchens.co.uk
Approximately 90% of our energy is created by oxygen which regulates nearly all the body’s ac ons. However, it is surprising how many of us are dysfunc onal ‘over breathers’ and this can have physical implica ons... When we ‘over breathe’ we breathe more rapidly and shallowly; the chest does not expand as much as it could and much of the air exchange occurs at the top of the lung ssue. This results in “chest” breathing. You can check if you are a chest breather by placing your right hand on your chest and your le hand on your abdomen. As you breathe, see which hand rises more. If your right hand rises more, you are a chest breather, if your le hand rises more, you are an abdomen breather. If you are one of the many chest breathers the good news is you can train the body to improve its breathing technique. With regular prac ce you will breathe from the abdomen most of the me, even while asleep. There are many abdominal breathing techniques here is just one: Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Take a deep breath in, ensuring that the hand on the abdomen rises higher than the one on the chest, and hold it for a count of up to but no more than 7. Slowly exhale through your mouth for a count of 8. As all the air is released, gently contract your abdominal muscles to completely evacuate the lungs. It is important to remember that we deepen respira ons not by inhaling more air but by completely exhaling. Repeat for a total of 5 deep breaths and try to breathe at a rate of one breath every 10 seconds or 6 breaths per minute. If you prac ce this regularly, abdominal breathing will become automa c. This is one of the most beneficial things that can be done for both short and long term physical health. by Paula Reed of Reed Wellbeing www.reedwellbeing.co.uk
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Strawberry... Crème de la Crème! Strawberry are proud to announce the arrival of Strawberry Co age! From its humble beginnings in Nicola’s garage a li le over 5 years ago to its own premises in a premier posi on on Barrow High Street, Strawberry can now really take on the ‘Big Boys’
succeed with the desire to offer serious compe on to the na onals out there. “House sales have been increasing year on year and 2012 saw us sell four mes more proper es than in 2011, (I bet that silences those cri cs who said that Strawberry was all about le ngs and wouldn’t succeed in sales!) Le ngs con nue to flourish and, with the high demand from those wan ng to rent, the team have a job on their hands finding good proper es.”
Strawberry Co age is now open for business at No. 4 High Street, Barrow upon Soar. So what’s behind this amazing success? Especially considering we’re in a double dip recession with the property market at its worst– supposedly – for decades! “Hard work and unmatched proac vity; other agents tend to work hard to gain a clients instruc on but then just sit back and wait for the viewings to come. We keep up the effort throughout the whole process un l a sale or let is achieved,” says Nicola Hickenbotham, Strawberry’s MD. And what does the future hold? According to Nicola the future will involve much of the same determina on to
But Nicola knows it’s wise to remember those humble beginnings; loyal customers and the local community are the bedrock of Strawberry’s success and the founda on for a solid future… “Being part of the local community is as important to us as the status we achieve. Regardless of how we expand in the future we will always have a presence here in Barrow and we’ll never forget that it’s our loyal customers, great landlords and tenants and surrounding businesses that have helped us. Without their support and recommenda on we might s ll be working from my garage!”
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01509 414798
Fax: 07006 059495 www.strawberrylettingsandsales.co.uk admin@strawberrylettingsandsales.co.uk
Page 18
Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue? Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk
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Finding that perfect dress... The wedding season is just around the corner with more choice than ever on offer to beguile the brideto be – from High Street bargains to highend fashion. Retailers are becoming increasingly aware of the market demands for ‘designer style’ at high street prices and many new, more affordable ranges, are emerging. Although for most of us the roman c idyll of the celebrity marriage on sunkissed foreign shores is as distant as the Caribbean beach on which it takes place, with so many different gowns and accessories available, you’ll be sure to look just as good as they do. Whether you have had your dress designed in your mind for years or you are only just star ng to look for style inspira on, the fantas c array of classic, cu ng edge and modern designs infiltra ng high street bou ques means that finding your dream dress is far more likely to become a reality. As vintage chic is an enormous trend at the moment, many top designers are taking inspira on from bygone eras by producing magnificent gowns with extreme embellishments. This means that you can revel in a wide choice of sumptuous fabrics, layers of luscious lace and fantas c appliqué work, not to men on heavenly embroidery.
Embracing fullon vintage style and purchasing an authen c period dress, or adap ng a family piece, can not only be a cost effec ve measure for the more budget aware, but can have spectacular results, as you are guaranteed to have a totally unique gown which will certainly not look embarrassingly dated in years to come. Adapta ons can easily provide a way for you to stamp your own style and personality on any vintage piece. Using classic makeup and hair styling can help to achieve the full period look, but as an alterna ve, adop ng a more modern style can marry two periods together and work excep onally well. With that in mind, you can carry forward the ideas of ‘something old, something new’, when choosing accessories. A ara from the 1920s can sit happily alongside contemporary earrings. Undoubtedly, the decision of which dress to choose just became harder, albeit in a good way as being spoilt for choice is never bad. And be reassured: if your budget doesn’t quite stretch to a designer gown, you can s ll acquire a similar look. The high street always reflects the catwalk. But for real savings, adap ng a vintage gown might just mean that you have enough le over for a honeymoon of your dreams. By Helen Jane Taylor
Jan Jack’s Perfect Verse Comedian/Poet Jan Jack is one of the UK’s leading writers of bespoke verse for
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Page 22
Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates
Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 23
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Wide range of photographic services available
A en on to Detail Back in February we were two days from our deadline with no suitable cover photo… To the best of our endeavour we try to choose a photo for our front cover that has been taken in our Soar Valley. We want it to depict the season, be of good quality, high resolu on and it also needs to complement our header colour for the month. Up un l February we had achieved this criteria mostly but then it seemed we had run out of inspira on and ideas. Luckily we had been gathering ‘likers’ on Facebook and a couple of photographers had popped up amongst them. When I explained my dilemma it was Rebecca Soanes who came to our rescue and when Mary and I met up with her in AshbydelaZouch she told us the story of how she had come to be running her own photography business.
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“My father died a few years ago and le me his camera and all his equipment. He and I loved nature and enjoyed watching its progress day by day, season by season, year by year. But I hadn’t really been interested in photography un l one day, a li le over two years ago, I picked up his camera to try out a few shots and discovered a talent I never knew I had. Since then I’ve never looked back! I’ve just finished an exhibi on, done a photo shoot at a fashion show, had my photographs on the front cover of magazines, taken on school portrait work, weddings and lots, lots more. And I just love every minute of it... Rebecca Soanes photographer on loca on
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The Ides of March by Phillip Mark McGough
Phillip Mark McGough
I am wri ng this in midFebruary, on what has turned out to be the first mild weekend of the year. So mild that I came over all reckless, chanced a trip to Whitby and got up close and personal with seagulls that had a taste for sustainable pollock and chips.
Mild or no, the snows linger on the moors and the science fic onally weird RAF Fylingdales, which guards the strategicallyvital approaches to Whitby like a giant Dalek, was sheathed in frost. All around, however, the heather was coming into bud because, back down here at sea level, March approaches. Spring approaches. Things, to put it technically, are ge ng greener. Closer to home, at Beeston Marina, my usual perch of a Sunday a ernoon (£2.50 a pint at the Canalside Pub, where I mingle with strange river folk and others of my kind), the green is jeweled with different colours besides: white deadne les, red deadne les, sallows erup ng into catkins. A few bulbs are sending up their leaves and the daffodils outside my kitchen window are already a few inches high. Higher s ll, the rooks are poking at last year’s nests, the blackbirds are ge ng frisky, woodpeckers are drumming and report me to the RSPB if I’m a liar I swear I saw a chiffchaff in a thicket by A enborough train sta on, which I appreciate is a good couple of months or so early. They don't normally start arriving here un l May, but you know what they say: if it looks like a chiffchaff, moves like a chiffchaff, flies like a chiffchaff, but stays frustra ngly silent…it may have been a willow warbler. Spring is always a mixed blessing for the more sen mental birdwatchers like me. There’s a lot to look forward to, but the birds that became dependent on my fat balls over the winter are beginning to disperse either back to the fields and woods, or back to their summer quarters in Scandinavia and Russia. This year we’ve been spoiled by waxwings, redwings, and fieldfares, all very welcome winter visitors (the redwings in par cular are a rare sight indeed in a suburban garden, at least in these parts), but soon they’ll be gone,
Page 24
having in the mean me wrought havoc in the herbaceous border. They didn’t go anywhere near my fat balls to be sure, but they had their fill of berries, and my oncebeau ful pyracantha bushes are now decidedly naked. S ll, if you’ll pardon the pun (of course you will), and in view of the impending Ides of March, the waxwings came to seize my berries, not to appraise them. Ah, the Ides of March! Doom, omens, fable. Birds have o en hallmarked the historical. Strange and solitary crows were said to have been seen circling the Forum shortly before Caesar's demise, and we've all heard of the eagle that dropped a wolf cub into the lap of the young Claudius, a sure sign of future greatness. Scarcely less drama cally, the other day I saw 19 magpies all together in a field en route to Long Eaton, long the seat of prophecies and wonders. Yes, 19, ra ling their troubles in unison like the 1812 overture interpreted through the medium of beltfed machine guns. What they were doing together so early in the year is a mystery. If one means sorrow and two mean joy, etc., what do 19 mean? I shudder to think, though I've started buying scratch cards again, just to be on the safe side. In Roman mes the Ides of March, midway through the month, were notable primarily for economic reasons as a deadline for se ling debts. The word's La n roots mean "divide," and the date sought to split the month, originally at the rise of the full moon though the calendar month and the lunar month soon began to lag. Nature too se les its debts in more ways than one, always paying and collec ng on me. Assassina on is frequent (grassy knolls a key reference here), but, thankfully, resurrec on no less frequent. The keeneyed may already see and hear summer's footsteps in the meadow, and given a fair wind and a calm sea the first swallows will soon be hawking for insects over the Trent and I'll be unearthing my Primark mixed polyco ons. Shorts, sandals, and sensible socks, that's me; not a pre y sight, but a reliable indicator of the turning of the year. Enjoy the change of the seasons, and those months March, April, and May that can't quite make up their minds. They are Nature's uncertain es, they keep us guessing. I appreciate the heart's seasons don't always tally with nature's I pride myself on spasms of freefloa ng depression all year round but do as the bees do and try and savour it all while you can. As they say in Japan, go outside: there is honey to be sucked from flowers, for a li le while.
Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue? Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk
Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 25
Living Together A lot of people believe that if you simply live with a partner for a fixed period of me, say two years, you become a “Common Law” husband or wife. This is wrong. Many people assume the law will protect them if they live with someone for a long period of me or have children together but there is currently no law which specifically protects cohabi ng couples. When a cohabi ng couple separate, the division of assets will be decided by property law. Courts have no discre on to relocate assets as they do within divorce and civil partnership proceedings. To avoid disagreement it is a sensible idea to have a Cohabita on or Living Together Agreement prepared. This forms a contract between the couple. It will usually contain details of how any property is owned, whether jointly or separately between the par es, details of who will pay the bills and other outgoings, what will happen if the rela onship ends. Also what would happen in the event of significant changes to the rela onship such as the birth of children or serious illness of one party? When a property is purchased in joint names, it is essen al to consider how both par es’ interests should be protected.
Also in what shares the joint property is owned. If one party puts more capital in, upon purchase, then this could be protected by a deed of trust between the owners. Your solicitor will give you advice on different ways to jointly own property. To have things clear at the outset will avoid disagreement and disappointment if a rela onship breaks down. Cohabi ng couples should always consider making wills. If someone dies without a will, then on death their property will pass under the Intestacy Rules meaning that an unmarried partner would not benefit, which could lead to distant rela ves benefi ng in their place. Since 1st December 2003, unmarried fathers who are named on a child’s birth cer ficate as the child’s father automa cally have parental responsibility. If your child was born before that date or if a father is not named on the birth cer ficate he will not have parental responsibility, unless he enters into a parental responsibility agreement, obtains a parental responsibility order or marries the child’s mother. If you would like further informa on or help please contact: Rita Rathod r.rathod@mosssolicitors.co.uk Ann Ellio a.ellio @mosssolicitors.co.uk or telephone 01509 217770
MOSS SOLICITORS LLP County Law Firm of the Year 2010 & 2008
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www.moss-solicitors.co.uk Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates
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This Pub is the Hub… In 2001 there was a na onal ini a ve started by the Prince of Wales, amongst others, championing the idea that the village pub could become the hub of small rural communi es once again... When Mary & I first moved to Sileby in 2005 we’d o en walk with our dog across the fields to Seagrave; the footpath ends at Butchers Lane near its junc on with Church Street and it was a joy to sit in the garden of the White Horse Inn next to the church with a pint and a sandwich. I used to think back then that the pub could be a real gem of a place given a bit of TLC along with a fair bit of investment. It looked as if it had been run down over the years and might well be heading the way of many other licensed houses. But then, having lost our old dog, we stopped walking that way and never got to see what happened to the White Horse Inn un l one sunny day in February this year when I discovered that Seagrave born and bred Gemma Rumbold and family had taken it on and transformed the place... The ground floor of what was an old derelict barn adjacent to the Norman church is now home to Seagrave’s village shop with a very impressive first floor func on room above with full disabled access; a splendid place to hold a wedding recep on or private party. A lot of vital provisions can be found in the shop and some very scrump ous li le luxuries too! They have their own brand of pickles and preserves and you can order
See page 3 to win a meal for two
meat from Glenn Lewin Butchers of Sileby at the shop in the morning and pick it up in the a ernoon Glenn also delivers fresh meat every day for the chef in the pub restaurant. All of the pub’s old character has been preserved and it s ll has that rus c, tradi onal feel, but now much more comfortable and welcoming. The menu too is vastly improved and I’d say it rivals anything in the Soar Valley for quality and value. Gemma, family and team; you’ve done a brilliant job! Oh yes, and the last me I visited, Gemma told me they had just received an award from The Pub is the Hub, commending them upon the transforma on.
The Stables Shop at The White Horse Inn, Seagrave opens Tuesday to Saturday from 10 ‘ l 12, and 3 ‘ l 6 and 10 ‘ l 12 on a Sunday. Tea, coffee and delicious cake served every day! The White Horse Inn, 6 Church Street, Seagrave, Leicestershire, LE12 7LT
01509 814715
Opening times: Tuesday 6pm – 11pm Wednesday – Saturday 12pm – 2pm & 6pm – 11pm Sunday 12pm – 5pm Home cooked food served: Tuesday 6pm – 8.45pm Wednesday – Saturday 12pm – 1.45pm & 6pm – 8.45pm Sunday 12pm – 2.15pm
The White Horse is a great pub to visit all year round, whether you choose to enjoy the delightful views in our garden in the summer or relax by the fire with a newspaper during the winter. Whenever you come to visit, you will always find friendly staff, excellent food and drink and a great atmosphere. ■ £5 Tuesday Evening Specials ■ £5 Lunch Specials, Weds-Sat ■ Tapas Night every Wednesday ■ Steak Night every Thursday ■ Chef-cooked Sunday Lunch ■ Outside Bar & Catering Available Booking always advisable to avoid disappointment
The Stables Shop and Function Room at The White Horse are now open! Visit www.whitehorseseagrave.co.uk for more details.
Page 26
Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £21 per month plus VAT
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Arthri s and Physiotherapy Physiotherapy is an important part of treatment for most people with arthri s. Physiotherapists are part of a team of healthcare professionals who help you to resume or maintain an ac ve and independent life both at home and at work... Being expert in assessing movement they can show you how to protect your joints, offer advice and reassurance, help you to feel confident about managing your condi on, address any concerns or uncertain es and help you set appropriate goals to keep you as ac ve as possible. Specialist physiotherapists are trained in diagnosing and trea ng joint and muscle problems, and your GP may refer you to a
specialist physiotherapist rather than to a rheumatologist or orthopaedic surgeon. Your physiotherapist will start by asking you ques ons and examining the joint(s) you’re finding painful. This assessment will let them tailor the treatment to your needs. Treatment may include: a programme of specific exercises, general advice on increasing your ac vity level and avoiding exerciserelated injuries and painrelief treatments such as heat or ice packs. They may use TENS machines Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve S mula on, massage, manipula on, acupuncture or taping as well as providing walking aids or splints to help you stay mobile and independent. Call or text Walkin Physio: 07884493809 Email: info@walkinphysio.co.uk Visit: www.walkinphysio.co.uk Or just click on Walkin Physio in Soar Valley Life’s business directory under Health Care
For appointments call or text: Physiotherapy & Acupuncture
07884493809
www.walk-inphysio.co.uk • info@walk-inphysio.co.uk
Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates
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Walking – West Leake Hills Walk instruc ons 4 1/4 Miles 2 Hours Park considerately on the roadside in West Leake village. No facili es. 1 Walk down to the western end of the village; as the road bears right keep le /ahead up the signposted bridleway. On the level ground follow the track le at the signpost and bear le on the more substan al farm driveway to the junc on of tracks at the trees. 2 Turn le , along the lesser track and con nue between the hedge and the golf course, right of the conifer wood. Keep straight on with the trees to the le to the signpost at the corner of the trees on the right. 3 Turn sharp le along the field edge with the hedge to the right, through the gate at the end and turn right, to the marker post. Bear le on the narrow path through the trees, down to the marker post where the trees end. 4 Take the track le with the trees s ll to the le . At the marker post at the boundary turn right along the farm road; a er 600yds, at a marker post turn le . Walk up the farm track with the hedge to the right, through the gap at the end and bear right for 40yds. Follow the farm road le between fields, upslope at the end and turn right to the trees. 5 Turn le , over the hump of the hill, past the pond and le in the corner. Follow the path right and keep ahead down the enclosed path, leading right, back to the bridleway entrance at the west end of the village. © Clive Brown Our walks are compiled by Clive Brown who holds the copyright. You can order any of his 74 walking guides at : www.walkingcloseto.com
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email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert
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Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125
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Loughborough Canal and Boat Fes val
Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th May 2013
Access from the Rushes Bridge Street then Canal Bank in Loughborough town centre Loughborough Canal & Boat Fes val this year is looking to be the best yet with more exhibi ng boats than previous years including the Pilling’s Lock floa ng apartment and boat trip hire together with a variety of different stalls and exhibits. The fes val will be held on Saturday May 4th and Sunday May 5th from 10am 5pm each day and will mark the popular event’s 16th anniversary, leading to this year’s theme of Sweet 16... Kids get FREE workshops to show off their cra skills, Jolly Jack’s Big Red Play Bus, Bouncy Castle and Bouncy Slide plus a children’s ‘Sweet 16 Fancy Dress Compe on’ and Treasure Hunt hosted by the Loughborough Echo both days. Kiddies’ stalls include the popular PingPong game to win a lucky dip prize, face pain ng and gli er ta oos, goodie bags courtesy of the Echo and there’ll be a Liquid Luck compe on aimed at raising funds for future events.
Refreshments and food will be available on site and also from the Basin, Lynroys and the Albion. Local Morris Dancing groups, Way of the Wyrd and Bare Bones will be around the site with entertainment on Sunday. Jo Swi , fes val organiser, told us, “We have lots of interes ng stalls this year with many more exhibi ng boats. JTF falcons are back with an exhibit of rescue birds and you have a chance to hold one of these and have your photograph taken. We’ve also got the disabled trip boat, water taxi & ac vi es from the sea cadets.
Other stalls will include home baking, fused glassware, lace plates, Lymn Bank cheeses, jewellery, photographic, gree ngs cards and prints, Byzan um bazaar, vintage tools, sweets and candies, handmade Brazilian wear, your favourite charity stalls and many more.
Don’t forget the event is FREE and there’s something for all the family. We look forward to you coming along to join us.”
The more adventurous can have a go at canoeing and there will be archery both for children and adults. New this year is a fuel filtra on system demonstra on.
Contact details: Jo Swi 07800997349 Email: jo_swi @mrn.co.uk
Page 30
Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £21 per month plus VAT
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Mixing – not matching This season we are loving navy to create bold contras ng themes that are bangon trend. Nothing needs to match! so try mixing pa erns and mo fs together in varying shades for a striking new look. Use geometric pa erns for a retro feel or pre y florals with plains in shades of cornflower and indigo mixed with white for a more sophis cated look. Image featured from the Lakota range available from Acacia Curtains and Blinds Tel 01509 650832 Mobile 07881 681 556
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Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue? Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk
Page 31
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Baker & Co Accountants & Bookkeepers 6 Brookbridge Court Syston Leicestershire LE7 2JT Telephone
0116 2640889 (also fax)
0116 2695236 Email bakerandco56@aol.com
Free initial consultation, and home/workplace visits if desired
Accountancy headaches?? For a personal and jargon free service: SELF-ASSESSMENT TAX RETURNS ACCOUNTS FOR SOLE PROPRIETOR, PARTNERSHIPS, LIMITED COMPANIES, LLP'S, RENTAL INCOME ACCOUNTS, MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTS etc VAT PREPARATION AND FILING VAT AND TAX ENQUIRIES
Over 65 years experience within the practice
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Established in Syston for over 26 years
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Recipe for Success in Business David Baker and Karen Babb, partners in Baker & Co. Accountants, in Syston, talk to Soar Valley Life about what it takes to make it in business, especially in today’s tough economic climate... When David Baker set out in his chosen profession back in the midsix es, our currency was in pounds, shillings and pence; VAT didn’t exist and the standard rate of income tax with Roy Jenkins as Chancellor of the Exchequer was over eight shillings in the pound (40p). Selfassessment for income tax purposes for self employed people wasn’t even a twinkle in any tax man’s eye, and George Osborne was a newborn babe in arms! “Any problem with your tax could be sorted out with someone from the plen ful local tax offices, the inspectors being conversant with the local area and businesses,” recalls David. “Now call centres and large office blocks have taken over our local personal tax office is in Cardiff! Also, you knew your bank manager personally back then and if you needed financial help in business your bank was the first port of call. There was no call centre queue, credit score or ten page applica on form to fill in every request was judged on its individual merit. It was your accountant who worked out the figures and went with you to your bank. Nowadays, you’re lucky if you see anybody who has any bearing or influence on any applica on for funds in a business. The personal touch has been lost, and that’s a great shame. It seems to me that these days the banks will only lend money to those businesses which don’t need it; they ask for the wrong informa on and focus too much on their own internal affairs and how much bonus they’re going to make! And the picture gets bleaker when you look at the Inland Revenue, or the HMRC as they are now called, did you know that the average wai ng me to get a meaningful answer from them is up to 3 months or more if ever! We are being told that ma ers will improve we shall see we’re not holding our breath!” “But not all change is for the worse, is it?” I ask... “Oh no, not at all,” answers Karen, “we can get much more work done these days now that computers are so clever. Mind you, with up to 400 detailed Self Assessment Income Tax Returns to complete we need all the speed and help we can get. Also, in many ways, it’s a much faster world now, with the internet and all its fantas c informa on resources available at the click of a mouse. Ge ng answers other than from the tax people is much quicker with email instead of the old snail mail!” “It’s a much more diverse world these days, too,” adds David. “People used to get pigeon holed or were born into a job but class structure is not nearly so evident anymore. There are more opportuni es for people to start up on their own now; indeed, it’s so o en these days the best op on, what with larger companies cu ng back on staff and government establishments favouring outsourcing skills and labour.”
So what advice would they give to someone just star ng out today in business? “Not necessarily in any order because we feel that if you’re star ng out today you’ll need all of this and more: •
Research your customers and your district
•
Choose a business model whereby you get your costs back quickly
•
Have some cash behind you to de you through un l the business can generate its own income
•
Talk to your bank and let them know of your plans. Ask them about small business help and funding, things are changing all the me with government ini a ves; also most banks have free banking for new start ups
•
Have an approachable accountant who you can get along with
•
Be prepared to work longer and harder than you would otherwise do and understand that your business must come first
•
Live your job and be open all hours to phone calls and enquiries
•
Choose a job/skill that you can do well, enjoy and get sa sfac on from because it’s more than just about money
•
These are tough mes the worst in living memory for many things, so watch your costs very closely, be careful about wastage and your me spend it wisely
•
Make you own luck, don’t wait around for things to happen. If it’s quiet, deliver some leaflets, tell people about what you do.“
Oh yeah, and don’t forget to adver se Ed! I’ll add one more to that: whatever problem each day may bring, don’t take it to bed with you I‘ve found so o en that a er a good night’s sleep the answer will present itself in the morning...
Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates
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Soar Valley’s oldest company? George Walker Limited: Two hundred years old next year and s ll going strong... I learned at school how to calculate the age of a tree a er it has been felled by coun ng the annual rings. This so wood pine tree on the right was 43 years old when it was cut down, its good growing years are marked by wider rings. So wood trees grow rela vely quickly and have rings that are wider apart. Hardwood trees like the Cossington Oak pictured above grow more slowly and hence their rings are closer together. My guess is that this mighty oak, felled in 1915, could have been more than five hundred years old. It was certainly a mighty oak tree when the young George Walker started his haulage business in 1814, a hundred and one years before its felling. George III no rela on! was King and the Earl of Liverpool was Prime Minister. The black & white image of the felled oak appears on George Walker’s website, and by 1915, when that picture was taken, Walker’s were busy in all forms of arboriculture services together with their sawmill in Syston centre entrance on the High Street. During the first half of the twen eth century the company grew to become one of the foremost mber merchants in the region, a status it s ll holds today. It was also one of the first in the UK to pressuretreat mber with Tanalith, a waterbased copper solu on proven to be highly effec ve in wood preserva on. Tanalising involves loading untreated wood into the treatment vessel and crea ng a vacuum. The vessel is then flooded with preserva ve and hydraulic pressure is applied. This forces the preserva ve deep into the structure of the wood, increasing its service life. George Walker’s Tanalising Plant, situated in the northeastern corner of the mber yard, can process 36 feet of mber loaded 4 feet square in one pass. That’s enough mber to make about a quarter of a mile of fence panels!
The directors report for the year ending March 1978 the company’s annual tree ring if you like states: “This has been a most difficult and worrying year for us, with the complete removal from the old site of the business. Despite this, we have been able to make a be er profit than an cipated.” The old site of the mber yard and sawmill, founded by Harry Walker right in the centre of Syston, had been compulsorily purchased to make way for a new town centre supermarket now the Co op the Town Square shopping arcade and car park. Walkers had to move to previously acquired land at the junc on where the High Street meets the Old Fosse Way which they had been using as a storage facility for some me. The report con nues with: “There were no services whatsoever, sewer, water, electric or drainage. The site had to have approx. three foot of hardcore over all the area, then blinded and rolled.” Robert Toon, Managing Director of the company today, has grown up with the business as has his sister Alex who looks a er the accounts. Alex remembers growing up in the old house on the High Street: “I was born in that house. Dad was foreman at the me and got the house with the job. I was about 17 when we had to move in ’77. The house is s ll there on the High Street at the corner of Walker’s Way. When we lived there we had a ghost. It s ll has the same windows and doors by the looks of it.” Today, the company has a quarter of a million pounds worth of stock on site, from simple posts and fencing panels to decking and sleepers for raised beds. Along with garden furniture and ready made features they also supply all you could ever need in terms of accessories for fi ng everything they make.
Then: The offices and entrance to George Walker’s Timber Yard
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Now: 40 years later the house hasn’t changed much but everything else has!
Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £21 per month plus VAT
Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 35
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Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 36
Recipe
Lemon Lush Sponge ďŹ ngers or jam Swiss roll Fresh orange juice or sherry 300 mls double cream Juice and the zest of one lemon 150 gms Greek yoghurt 3 tablespoons of good lemon curd Grated chocolate for decora on Cut sponges into cubes and soak in orange juice in the bo om of a glass dish. (You could also put some mandarin oranges onto sponges if you like). In a bowl whisk cream into so peaks with lemon juice and zest. In another bowl combine yoghurt with lemon curd and fold this mixture into the cream. Spoon onto the sponges, decorate and chill.
Submi ed by Pat Bishop of Sileby
Design
manufacture and
installation
of kitchens, bedrooms & fitted furniture
For free quotations call
01509 816391 07875 64 0074 Unit 2a Manor Drive, Sileby, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 7RZ neilphilipsinteriors@btconnect.com www.neilphilipsinteriors.co.uk
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Anything of interest youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to see in the next issue? Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk
Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:49 Page 37
Spot Ten Differences Answers on page 39
The Queen Victoria Syston
76 High Street, Syston LE7 1GQ 0116 260 5750 www.everards.co.uk
Great Value Deals
Early Bird Specials
– Tuesday to Friday – Special Menu – 2 Meals for a tenner
Lunchtime Carvery
For details of music, quiz nights plus full menus go to www.soarvalleylife.co.uk and click on the Queen Victoria photo under Food & Drink in the Business Directory
Sizzler Night
Wednesdays 6pm - 8.30pm 2 sizzlers & bottle of wine £20.00*
Evening Carvery Special
Tuesday to Saturday 12noon - 2.00pm 2 for £10
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 6pm to 8.30pm Full Carvery 2 for £15
Steak Night
Fridays 6pm - 8.30pm 2 for £13
Saturday 6pm - 8.30pm 2 steaks & bottle of wine £17.95*
Pie Night
Tuesdays 6pm - 8.30pm 2 for £13
Fish & Chip Night Sunday Carvery
Available 12 noon til 3pm Adults £8.75 Children £5.25 includes free ice cream
6 Real Ales always available including 3 guest ales • Well stocked wine cellar * specific wines see full menu for choice
Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £21 per month plus VAT
Page 37
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Charnwood Maintenance Top Tips The sun is out, the rainy season is finally drizzling away, so here are a few ps on how to open up your home and prepare it for spring! Clean out your clu er! Grab a bag and walk through your house. Start at one end and work your way to the other. Look for anything collec ng dust and don’t feel guilty about bagging it! Consider pu ng some of your unused stuff on eBay ask yourself, how long will it just sit in a corner gathering more dust; if you think it’ll be awhile, Freecycle it, donate it, or just throw it! •
kitchen. None of this involves spending much money but if you do fancy splashing out consider freshening up the decor. It doesn’t have to be a complete revamp maybe just a touch up of the paint or the crea on of a feature wall but it is sure to make your home feel fresher and brighter. Outdoor areas, gardens and pa os can seem a bit dull at this me of year, but you can s ll make the most of what space you have with a general dy up and simple repairs •
Check the outside paint on windows doors and render
This is a great me to clean your windows and appreciate the new light shining into your home.
•
Check and repair any garden gates or fences
•
Vacuum your upholsteries and draperies to remove any dust that may have accumulated during the winter months.
•
Clean gu ers and downpipes
•
•
Clean your carpets and any big rugs. If you have a steam cleaner, it is me to pull it out. If you don’t, it’s easy to rent one. Using a carpet cleaner can help remove residual pet odours and dust mites which can cause allergic reac ons.
Clear paths of weeds and make the entrance to your home invi ng with some freshly planted pot plants.
•
Don't get too carried away outside with plan ng, we can s ll have the odd frost this me of year that will damage any new tender plants.
•
Don't forget the garage if you have one. If like the majority of homeowners you use your garage for storing everything apart from the car why not give it a dy up you never know what you might find!
Once your home is clean and declu ered, it is me to rearrange your furniture. Start with the room you use least – such as a guest bedroom. Try something new, spin the bed around, get rid of a table or add a chair, etc. Once you are done move on to the next room, the kid’s rooms, your room, living room, and the
Top ps supplied by Dave Walters of Charnwood Maintenance
“The Expert One Stop Shop for all your planned and emergency home, garden and property maintenance.” Contact: ELECTRICAL PAT TESTING
PLUMBING
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
BUILDING MAINTENANCE
PAINTING & DECORATING
GROUNDS MAINTENANCE
t 01509 414417 m 07707 583044 Charnwood Maintenance Services The Ark Centre, Meadow Lane Industrial Estate, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 1JP
www.charnwood-maintenance.co.uk Page 38
Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125
Soar Valley April/May 2013_Layout 1 17/03/2013 11:50 Page 39
Solu ons Days of the Week Quiz Answers
Spot Ten Differences
1.
Loving and giving
1.
2.
Robinson Crusoe
Purple bird on man's head is facing other way
3.
No Smoking Day
2.
4.
First Monday
Man is missing one side of his moustache
5.
Thursday
3.
Blue bird doesn't have white stripes on feathers
4.
Blue bird has smaller eyes
5.
Green bird is missing an orange stripe on beak
6.
Man has a logo on his top
7.
Man has an extra bird on his le side
8.
Green bird is missing one foot
9.
Man is missing a fingernail on his right hand
6.
Mardi Gras
7.
He took ill
8.
Saturday
9.
Palm Sunday
10. ‘Sunday Girl’ by Blondie Congratula ons to Emma Burr of Barrow upon Soar who wins a Spa Day for Two at Ragdale Hall just for ‘liking’ our Facebook page
10. Man's trousers are missing the zipper
General Knowledge Crossword Across: 1 Myth, 3 Bouffant, 9 Nirvana, 10 Yards, 11 Easter Sunday, 14 Ifs, 16 Icons, 17 Eke, 18 Haute couture, 21 Mu i, 22 Treadle, 23 Sweet pea, 24 Army. Down: 1 Mince pie, 2 Terms, 4 Ova, 5 Flying saucer, 6 Acreage, 7 Toss, 8 Lake District, 12 Stoic, 13 Cemetery, 15 Snaffle, 19 Udder, 20 Amos, 22 Tee.
BUILDERS MERCHANTS
CASTLE MEADOW ROAD • NOTTINGHAM NG2 1AG Tel: (0115) 941 2861 Fax: (0115) 948 3362 Email: enquiries@johnastephens.co.uk www.johnastephens.co.uk As one of the largest and best stocked builders' merchants in the East Midlands, John A. Stephens has built its success on continually developing the range of services and products it has to offer, with the priority to provide an efficient service to all customers. Whether private individuals looking for DIY materials or contractors loading up vehicles with building materials, our yard and counter staff are here to provide the products and materials that you need, giving help and advice drawn from many years experience in the building trade. With our fleet of over 30 purpose built vehicles, same day availability is often given for our large range of stock items.
For the very best in
Quality Garden Landscape Products Nottingham’s Leading Heavyside Builders Merchant For Supplies of:
■ Hard Landscaping Materials ■ Bricks ■ Blocks ■ Aggregates ■ Cement ■ Plaster ■ Plaster Board ■ Drainage ■ Roofing ■ Timber ■ Insulation
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0115 981 4313
• Marshalls • Stonemarket
Garden Paving, Walling & Block Paving
email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert
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see page 30