Soarvalley julaug13 issuu

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Barrow and Quorn Edi on 15,000 magazines delivered by Royal Mail every two months

Issue 16 July/August 2013

Priceless

This edi on is delivered by Royal Mail to all 6,700 addresses in LE12 8: Barrow upon Soar, Quorn, Walton on the Wolds, Woodhouse Eaves, Woodhouse and Swithland together with further copies made available in libraries, pubs, hotels, surgeries, tourist informa on centres, newsagents, Great Central Railway sta ons and other major places of interest in Burton on the Wolds, Su on Bonington and Hathern

Bridging the Gap on the GCR Compe ons Country Walk Recipe Puzzles Motoring Trades and Services

Next month’s edi on is delivered

by Royal Mail to all 7,700 addresses in LE12 7: Sileby, Mountsorrel, Seagrave and Cossington together with further copies made available in libraries, pubs, hotels, surgeries, tourist informa on centres, newsagents, Great Central Railway sta ons and other major places of interest in Rothley, Thurcaston and Cropston

www.soarvalleylife.co.uk Copy deadline for August issue Tuesday 30th July

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Bridges A couple of Saturdays ago I was enjoying a drink in the local pub with Mary when an older gent I’d never met before told me that he’d been born and bred in Sileby like his father and grandfather before him; he’d le the area some 25 years ago and was here for a family re-union. His family name was Ward and he and his father had built many of the houses in and around the village. I told him we lived almost next door to a bridge which has his father’s name on; it crosses Sileby Brook to give access to the row of houses on Hobbs Wick.

It’s likely that the first bridges ever used by human beings were made by nature itself; as simple as a fallen log across a stream or stones in a river. The first man‐made bridges would have been logs or planks of wood strapped together with leather and twine.

Over me, as human ingenuity developed, bridges became bigger, brought peoples together and aided colonisa on of new lands and territories.

As a metaphor it creates a powerful meaning of connec on, bridging the gap between two par es; or as an analogy in a Bridge to the Future (page 21 & 22) connec ng the past via the present to the future when the two halves of the Great Central Railway become one again by replacing the missing bridge over the Midland Main Line at Loughborough.

When I was growing up in the 50s and 60s my grandparents had a smallholding adjacent to a spur which joined the Great Central Railway on Gotham Moor. My cousins and I would look down the embankment from the fence bordering the potato field, on to the tank engines pulling trucks full of Gypsum. We’d put halfpennies on the track which crossed the lane outside grandad’s bungalow and then rush back to find the squashed copper a er the train had passed, and wonder at the power and weight of a machine that could do such a thing. We’d brace ourselves and hang on for dear life on the Fi y‐steps Foot Bridge in Western Fields, Ruddington as the London and Sheffield expresses came thundering through.

The closure of the railway line in 1969 with the ra onalisa on of Bri sh Railways seemed an inevitability, an undeniable truth that progress is always double edged. Then in the early 70s the Main Line Preserva on Group sprang forth and saved the line from Loughborough to Quorn and subsequently to Rothley and Birstall.

Then Bri sh Rail in 1980 drove another nail into the coffin and took down the bridge over the Midland line. But s ll the movement strived and never gave up, even though many of those original enthusiasts are no longer here. And how ironic it is that the double edge of progress turns full circle with the promise from Network (Bri sh) Rail of the funds and influence to put the bridge back, and make a connec on once more between the coun es of No ngham and Leicester.

We like to think that our magazine is a bit like a bridge, connec ng trades and services with people who might not know about them and this month we have a new team member making new connec ons for us; we welcome Nicola Davies, who’s helping us out with telemarke ng. And come the Autumn, we’ll be connec ng 22,000 households with the ever growing number of adver sers who appear in here. And how diverse and varied we become: new this month are Mr B of Quorn, the mul na onal Costco Wholesaler in Thurmaston, Hair at Home Mountsorrel, Baby Gosling in Syston, Absolute Window Solu ons and the RSPCA in Leicester, Sam Woodward painter and decorator and Smartly S tch Tailoring both in Sileby, and we have a new builder ‐ Marbuild, also of Sileby ‐ I wonder if they’ll be building new bridges any me soon?

Hello and welcome one and all...

Steve & Mary Johns

Editors ‐ Soar Valley Life Page 2

“Aquilegias by the Door” © by Rebecca Soanes 10th June 2013 Rebecca says, “The way the background is in shade making the light on the Aquilegias stand out reminds me of white gloves telling a story in a mime act!”

Contents Local Op cian Sets Sights on Spectators If you Fail to Plan you Plan to Fail Quiz – Towns and Villages Happy Motoring Clean up your Pa o & Prepare to Party 10 Top Tips about Buy‐to‐Let Wall to Wall Service, Courtesy & Value General Knowledge Crossword Easy Sudoku Loulou’s ‐ An Enterprise with Taste Clogs & Cleats Cycle Challenge Sileby Vikings Rugby Club Truck Pull Compe on ‐ Win Sunday Lunch for Two New Light through Old Windows The Reshaping of Britain’s Railways A Bridge to the Future Recipe – Lemon Chicken with Tabbouleh Picnic Bench Winner Captured Portrait She should have gone to Baby Gosling!

Snapshots by Phillip Mark McGough Looking a er those le behind Walking King’s Brook A conservatory is not just for summer Your space, your kitchen, your budget The Best of all Worlds Spot the Difference Reflexology as Effec ve as Pain Killers?

What’s On Answers to Puzzles

4 8 9 10 10 11 12 15 16 17 18 18 18 19 20 21 24 29 29 30 32 35 36 39 41 42 44 44 46 47

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 Trades and Services Builders Merchants

John A Stephens Wanlip Sand and Gravel

47 28

Child Care and Educa on

Kumon Maths and English Tutoring Parkside Nursery School

Clothing and Accessories

Baby Gosling Happily Ever A er Brides Smartly S tch Tailors

30 22 14

Entertainment

A all the Way Discos Great Central Railway Teddy Bears Picnic

Hair and Beauty

Hair and Nails at Home The Temple Hair Spa

7 26 22 29

Health Care

Ac vity 4all Charnwood Hearing Aid Centre Gareth Hudson – Foot Health Professional Reed Wellbeing ‐ Complementary Health Visual Answers Op cians / Optometrists Walk‐in Physio Ltd

Home and Garden

16 31

A 2 Z Cleaning Services Absolute Window Solu ons Limited Acacia Curtains and Blinds AMW Kitchens Bunny Appliance Warehouse Carpets of Choice Charnwood Maintenance Services Charnwood Tree Services DCI Kitchens Delta Aerials Doortronic – Remote Controlled Garage Doors Fab Plumbing Harrison Landscaping KR Electrical Lo Storage Solu ons Marbuild Property Solu ons Mr B Property & Garden Maintenance

14 16 37 44 5 39 10 40 39 41 43 13 45 45 37 6 9 16 34 6 8 38 6

Informa on is included in our What’s On sec on subject to space being available. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publica on is accurate, Soar Valley Life cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions and neither do we endorse companies or adver sers or their products and services appearing in this magazine.

Neil Philips Interiors Richard Watson Painter and Decorator Sam Woodward Pain ng & Decora ng SJS Professional Carpet Cleaner Soar Valley Aerials The Oven Cleaning Company Whelband Windows

34 15 33 9 16 37 25

Pet Care Woodside Animal Centre

7

Professional Services AST Le ngs Ltd Baker & Co. Accountants CP Accountancy Ltd Helen Joyce – Ar st iPaq Repair & Parts Moss Solicitors October House Life Assurance Rebecca Soanes Photography SGA Architects & Structural Engineers

11 23 8 29 14 35 14 31 17

Pubs, Restaurants & Catering Loulou’s Pancakes Rock ‘n’ Rolls Catering The Free Trade Inn The Queen Victoria The White Horse Inn

17 7 19 15 31

Residen al Care The Abbeyfield

17

Sports and Leisure Cyclops Cycles Physfit Gyms Pillings Lock Marina Ltd

7 6 48

Timber Merchants George Walker Ltd

28

Travel Charnwood Airport Taxis Deborah Grew Travel Consultants MG Execu ve Car Hire

38 14 10

Wholesalers Costco Leicester

email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

27

Page 3

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Local Optician sets sights on footy-mad spectators Football fans can now keep their eye on the ball through a special pair of designer glasses from their own team...

Optometrist Mohammed Bhojani of Visual Answers Opticians of Quorn and Barrow upon Soar has set his sights on football fans after stocking exclusive glasses from the top Premier League teams. In the world of football merchandise, almost everything has been branded but this is the first time supporters are now able to buy designer prescription glasses and sunglasses from Premier League teams.

Visual Answers is one of the first opticians in the country to stock these club–branded prescription spectacles. The glasses look set to be a winner with both adult fans and children.

Mohammed says, ‘Glasses have become more of a fashion statement over the

years and having a range that is personalised with your favourite premier team is very exciting. Some children are still a little nervous about wearing glasses because they don’t think they’re “cool” so these club–branded styles will be fantastic. Being born and bred in Newcastle, I love my black and white NUFC specs!’

The fashionable frames come in six styles – four for adults and two for children. There is a choice of unisex designs so female fans can get in on the action too. The frames have spring hinges and come with a hard case and micro-fibre cloth made in the UK with children’s frames starting from £40.

Visual Answers also supply a range of club-branded sunglasses which come in aviator or wrap styles and offer 100 per cent UV protection. Adult sunglasses cost from £25 and children’s sunglasses are priced from just £19.95. They can currently supply official spectacle frames and sunglasses for Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Everton, Chelsea, Arsenal, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, Hull City, Glasgow Rangers and Celtic.

Mohammed said “Everyone we have spoken to loves the idea and concept; we are amazed it has never been done before. It’s a simple idea and a great way to look good and show support for your team. We expect it to be a winner with all football fans.”

22 High Street, Quorn LE12 8DT

01509 414151

28 (a) High Street, Barrow Upon Soar LE12 8PY

01509 416800

www.visualanswers.co.uk

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• • • • • •

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Re-wires Fuse Board Upgrades Extra Sockets & Lighting New Builds & Extensions Inspection & Testing Garden & Security Lighting • Electric Showers • Burglar Alarms

MR B PROPERTY MA P AINTENAN A CE A D GARDEN SERVICES AN

ALL WORK GUARANTEED

For a FREE quote: M: 07970 893250 T: 0116 2303166 Saxon Drive, Rothley, Leicestershire LE7 7SR www.krelectrical.com Info@krelectrical.com

01509 768831 • • • •

In business since 1983 5 year warranty We’ll beat any like for like quote High Quality Digital TV, DAB & FM Aerials • LCD/Plasma Wall Mounts • OAP Discounts • Tune-in & System set ups 133 Highgate Road, Sileby LE12 7PW www.deltaaerials.co.uk ®

Best equipped gym in the Soar Valley Free parking on Station/Tesco Car park

7 – 11 Brook Street, Sileby LE12 7RF

0773 338 5187

9 til 9 Mon to Thurs, 9 – 7 Fri, 10 – 6 Sat, 10 – 1 Sun physfitgyms@hotmail.com

www.physfitgyms.co.uk Page 6

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 7

Outside Catering Services

Funerals • Christenings • Engagements Family parties • Office functions • Meetings 1 High Street, Sileby, LE12 7RX

07709 088718

ADOPT AN L A M I N A

Woodside Animal Centre 190 Scudamore Road, Leicester LE3 1UQ

0116 233 6677

info@rspcaleicester.org.uk www.rspcaleicester.org.uk

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Page 7

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He who fails to plan is planning to fail!

I am o en surprised how many people start up in an own business without having prepared a business plan. A business plan is vital to help you avoid costly mistakes and spot any poten al pi alls before they happen. It outlines your long term goals for the business and includes realis c targets which may be measured to ensure you are on the right track for success…

Your business plan should include:­ 1. Business Details – Name and address etc including legal status.

2. Vision and Aims – What you want to do and how you are going to do it.

3. Market – research poten al customers and also your compe tors. How are you going to be different to them?

4. Sales and Marke ng – How is your income going to be generated and how will you promote your product or service.

5. Financial Requirements – What will your se ng up costs be and what is your break‐even point. Will you require any addi onal funding?

6. Execu ve Summary – The main points from all the above sec ons.

Your business plan must be simple to read and easy to update as your business grows to ensure you are on course to meet your goals.

ECONOMY PACKAGE

UPVC hinge down loft hatch Two section aluminium loft ladder 100 square feet of loft flooring

PACKAGE 1

Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 100 square feet of loft flooring One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

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CP Accountancy Ltd End of year accounts, Bookkeeping, VAT, PAYE, CIS, and Tax Returns for Sole-traders, Partnerships and small Limited Companies Office 9 Lazarus Court, Woodgate Rothley, Leicestershire LE7 7NR Tel: 01162 303 973 Mobile: 07749 650129 Email: info@cpaccountancyltd.co.uk

Caroline Parnell is licensed and regulated by the AAT under license number 5865

LOFT STORAGE

SOLUTIONS

Balancing on a stepladder, clambering over loft joists with a torch in one hand and a box in another is not only awkward but potentially dangerous.

Boarding, lighting and a ladder not only gives you the opportunity to unclutter your living space, but also creates a cleaner and more useful environment.

Solve your storage needs and start utilising the largest space in your home from only £435.

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Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 200 square feet of loft flooring One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

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Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 300 square feet of loft flooring One Fakro Roof Window 550mm x 780mm

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EXTRA BOARDING

Page 8

Additional boarding to any package £30 per 16 square foot

LUXURY STORAGE ROOMS

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0116 367 9749

07515 526959 / 079615 76020

www.LeicesterLoftStorage.com

Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £25 per month plus VAT

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Quiz – Towns and Villages 1. Born in 1945, which American singer found fame a er he changed his surname to that of a town in the north of England?

2. The Village Green Preserva on Society was used as the theme song for which TV sitcom?

3. In which English county would you find the town of Melton Mowbray?

4. In which fic onal Yorkshire village might you come across Police Constable Arthur Selby?

5. Which coastal town in East Sussex shares it’s name with Hercule Poirot’s assistant?

6. The TV show Noel’s House Party was set in which fic onal village?

7. Which town in Surrey is home to Ali G? 8. Replaced by youth custody centres in 1982, what was the name given to prisons for young offenders that was named a er the village in Kent where the first of these ins tu ons was established?

9. In which TV show did Number Two preside over “the Village”?

10. In which country of the UK would you find a village with a name that means “Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near the rapid whirlpool and the church of Tysilio with a red cave”?

Answers on page 47

Carpet Cleaner Dry in 1hr

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• Carpet Cleaning • Suites - Leather and Fabric • Oriental Carpets/Rugs • Curtain Cleaning Stuart Simpson carries out the cleaning himself with all the care and skill you would expect from someone with a wealth of experience and knowledge.

call 01509 412797 07825 795558 *when patented Texatherm cleaning system used

email stuart@the professionalcarpetcleaner.co.uk visit www.theprofessionalcarpetcleaner.co.uk

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Page 9

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Happy Motoring

by Mike Eames of M.G. Execu ve Cars If you are flying off to find some sunshine there is no be er way to start your holiday than to be picked up from home and driven straight to the airport - missing out the frustra on of parking some distance away and carrying heavy cases to catch a shu le bus to the terminal as well as paying car parking charges. And nothing beats being met in arrivals on your return a er a long flight!

If you have never considered booking a car to take you to and from the airport rather than driving yourself, I think you will find the cost of doing so comparable. Why don’t you email or call me to find out? Here are a few pointers that will help you when booking a car:‐ 1. When you get the quote, check if there are addi onal charges for car parking or delayed flights. It is ge ng more common for airports to charge even for dropping off!

2. Swap mobile telephone numbers so that if your circumstances change such as a delay or change of flights you can let the driver know.

3. Ask for a suggested pick up me. Your driver should be experienced enough to know the route and how long it will take, even if there are delays en‐route.

4. Make sure the vehicle will be big enough to get you and your luggage in. It is useful to know how many bags you will be taking as well as the number of people in your party.

Have a good summer and happy motoring!

Clean up your Pa o and Prepare to Party As summer starts to heat up, it’s inevitable that we should turn our a en on to the outdoors - clear the kids’ toys off the pa o, fire up the barbie and invite a few friends over for a garden party...

But having been neglected over the winter months, your garden may need some a en on before it looks fit for hos ng a spot of al fresco dining. If your pa o’s become tarnished and weathered, your first task will be to restore it to its former glory. Sediment and winter algae can take their toll, obscuring paving stones, driveways and kids’ play areas beneath a thick layer of accumulated dirt. The simplest solu on is to enlist the services of a professional pressure‐washing company. Using industrial equipment, they’ll be able

to strip away the built up grime leaving your pa o looking spick and span; professional equipment is far more effec ve than anything you could buy or hire to do the work yourself. The same equipment can clean driveways, block work, walls, garden furniture and decking.

So, consider using a professional pressure washing firm to get fantas c results at your home ‐ give your garden a makeover and prepare to make the most of the summer.

A2Z CLEANING SERVICES • •

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• • •

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Pressure Washing A2Z can clean any hard surface with the latest in Pressure Washing equipment the results are spectacular. We can clean Car Parks, Car Dealerships, Forecourts, Driveways, Patios, remove Graffiti and much more.

2 Abbey Business Park, Friday Street, Leicester LE1 3BW

T: 0116 2629596 • E: sales@leicestercleaners.com • www.leicestercleaners.com Page 10

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 11

10 Top Tips about Buy-to-Let 1. Research the market If you are new to buy‐to‐let, what do you know about it? Do you know the risks, as well as the benefits? If you know someone who already has a buy‐ to‐let property ask them about their experiences.

2. Choose an up and coming area Up and coming does not mean the cheapest. Up and coming means a place where people would like to live and this can be for a variety of reasons.

3. Do the figures Before you start to look at proper es sit down with a pen and paper and write down the cost of houses you are looking at and the rent you are likely to get.

4. Seek out the best mortgage Seek advice from a specialist buy‐to‐let mortgage broker as there are o en mortgage deals which are only available through brokers.

5. What type of tenant are you looking for?

Forget about whether you would like to live in the property yourself and put yourself in the shoes of your target tenant. Are you looking for students, young professionals or a family? Each type of tenant has their own unique requirements.

6. Go for rental yield Yield is the annual rent received as a percentage of the purchase price. For example, a property producing £5,000 rent that costs £100,000 to buy has a 5% gross yield. Don't forget tax, maintenance costs and other landlord expenses will eat into that return.

7. Property renova on It is also worth looking at proper es that need improvement as a way of boos ng the value of your investment.

8. Haggle over price As a buy‐to‐let investor, especially if you are a cash buyer, you have a dis nct advantage when it comes to nego a ng a discount as you can proceed quickly.

9. The downsides Before you make any investment you should always inves gate the nega ve aspects as well as the posi ve. Are house prices falling, or is there a surplus of rental proper es in the area in which you are looking to buy?

10. Consider how hands-on you want to be Will you rent it out yourself or get an agent to do so? Agents charge you a management fee, but will deal with any problems with the property. Independent agents such as AST Le ngs Ltd generally offer an excellent and personal service.

2d Moscow Lane, Shepshed, Leicestershire LE12 9EX Tel: 07885 218068 or 07896 817966 info@astlettings.com www.astlettings.com

Landlords, we have been so successful in finding tenants we have let nearly all of our properties

We now urgently require new properties for waiting tenants EPC's arranged Specialist Letting Agency No Let No Fee Free Professional advice Rent paid direct to your bank Free advertising No VAT is payable on our fees

Reduced Let Only fee for new instructions in July and August 2013 Please ring Stephen on 07885 218068 to book a rental valuation NOW Feature your business in Soar Valley Life – contact steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk

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Wall to wall courtesy, service and value...

And of course Choice!

Mary and I have visited Sally and Tim Elson’s carpet shop in Birstall quite a few mes now; some mes on Soar Valley Life business and some mes on other business (buying carpet). We have always been received with courtesy and a en on, even though on most occasions they have been busy serving other customers or on the phone. There’s always a smile and nothing is ever too much trouble.

I called in the other day when Tim was with two customers wri ng down the details they were giving him. Within a few seconds I’d been acknowledged by name and was perfectly happy to await my turn.

The conversa on between Tim and his clients went from which room was to be carpeted and what was most suitable within the price range, to the colour of the décor and the best type of underlay for a li le‐used spare room. A er about five minutes, an appointment was made for the following week for Tim to go and measure up in order to give a proper quota on.

Tim has been in the carpet business for about 35 years now and Carpets of Choice in Birstall opened in February 2010. Their son, Tom, also works full me in the family business.

Tim says, “Being an independent supplier means we can provide exactly what you want and need within the budget you set ‐ we have access to the widest range of floor coverings priced from £5 to £70 per square metre. We deal direct with major manufacturers such as Brinton's and Abingdon and with the major importers as well.

“Many floor coverings these days come with a life me guarantee; there are new synthe c materials now available that feel and look just like real wool but offer the advantages of being stain free or bleachable to return them to their original colour a er cleaning. But one of the best things we offer is our service.”

“Don’t they all say that?” I ask.

“Perhaps they do; but we give customers me to browse and to talk things through.

We provide a free measuring visit and we’ll move your furniture carefully so we can fit your carpet and put it all back again a er we’ve finished. We don’t use subcontractors and we’ll take all your old carpet away and dispose of it in the most environmentally friendly way. We’re a family business and we understand the importance of value, courtesy and service. That’s what we always strive to give.”

And from personal experience I can say that is exactly what they do.

Carpet of Choice, 133 Sibson Road, Birstall, LE4 4ND

Page 12

They’re always busy, but not so busy they don’t have me for you. They give an excellent a er sales service and having checked around and compared prices I can tell you Carpets of Choice offer the best value around.

email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 13

Good choice of rugs always available in store

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Need Life Assurance & Critical Illness Cover?

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Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic 26 High Street, Barrow Upon Soar Over 13 years’ experience in Adult and Children’s NHS, Private Practice, Post Operative Rehabilitation and Sports Injury Management.

Call 0116 286 6447 FOR AN INSTANT QUOTE

Unit 33, King Street Buildings, George Street Entrance Enderby, Leicester LE19 4NT

www.ipaqrepair.co.uk 1A Little Church Lane (next to St. Mary's Church) High Street, Sileby, LE12 7NE

Joint Pain and Stiffness Back and Neck Pain Repetitive Strain Injury

Muscle Spasm Sporting Niggles Bad Posture

Claire Lidstone Chartered Physiotherapist Health Professions Council Registered

There is no need to be in pain.

Call: 01509 414 581 for advice or an appointment. www.Activity4all.co.uk email: physio@Activity4all.co.uk

SMARTLY STITCH

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Made to Measure Curtains alterations also undertaken

Motorbike and Equestrian Leather Clothing repaired and altered

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PROFESSIONAL DRY CLEANING AGENTS

01509 815 658

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£25 plus VAT bookedbefore beforeTuesday TuesdayJune 30th25th July 2013 If Ifbooked

Call Steve for details on

01509 813125

Email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk

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General Knowledge Crossword

©puzzlepress.co.uk

Across 1 French town that serves as a ferry port to England (6) 7 Ac ng game, popular at Christmas (8) 8 Steal ca le (6) 10 Brie or Edam, for example (6) 11 Plant fibre used to make rope (5) 13 Japanese art of flower arranging (7) 16 Person whose duty is to throw troublemakers out of a bar (7) 17 Group which released the 2006 album Stop the Clocks (5) 20 Overland journey by hunters (6) 22 Formerly the basic unit of money in Spain (6) 24 Daughter of a sovereign (8) 25 ___ dancers, tradi onally associated with May Day (6)

Down 1 Country, capital Nicosia (6) 2 Communist state of Asia (4) 3 Sloping mass of loose rocks at the base of a cliff (5) 4 Item commonly eaten on Shrove Tuesday (7) 5 Live‐ac on film about a piglet (4) 6 Capital of Finland (8) 9 US novelist, creator of Tom Sawyer (5) 12 Worship of images (8) 14 Alloy of copper and zinc (5) 15 Unit of rela ve loudness (7) 18 Equal por ons into which the capital stock of a corpora on is divided (6) 19 Involuntary muscular contrac on (5) 21 ___ Karenina, novel by Leo Tolstoy (4) 23 Large container (4) Answers on page 47

Richard Watson Professional Painter and Decorator out from internal to external

Quality service with a professional finish • Free Estimates For a full personal service call

T: 01509 815753 M: 07880 754011 Sileby Based

Newly Refurbished Beer Garden 76 High Street, Syston LE7 1GQ

0116 260 5750 www.everards.co.uk

Complete with Bouncy Castle and Tuck Shop, Weather Permitting!

Meal Deals

Available Tuesday to Saturday 12noon to 2.00pm & 6.00 to 8.30pm

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Available 12noon - 3.00pm Adults £8.75, Children’s £5.25

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2 for £17.95 includes a bottle of House Wine 2 for £10

For up to date events guide and all menus and deals go to www.soarvalleylife.co.uk and click on the Queen Victoria picture on our home page

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Page 15

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 16

Plumbing or Heating Problem?

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Your local hearing specialist 5 Stadon Road, Anstey Leicester, LE7 7AY Existing hearing aid users welcome Hearing protection for both children and adults Friendly and professional service

Telephone: 0116 236 6633 Email: charnwoodhearing@btconnect.com www.charnwoodhearing.co.uk

For people who care about their hearing Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm Wed & Sat 9.30am - 12.30pm

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Leicester, Anstey Study Centre Hilary Maddocks 01509 414866 kumon.co.uk

Answers on page 47

For how to play go to h p://www.sudoku.name/rules/en

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 17

Lou Lou’s - an Enterprise with Taste…

“What’s the difference between a pancake, a crepe and a waffle?”

On the Spring Bank Holiday’s sunny Saturday I went to meet Lou and Ashley in the Go Outdoors car park at Loughborough. There was a bit of a queue and I had to wait to get my photos and to ask, “What’s the difference?”

Ashley answered my ques on by cooking me one of each. The crepe was a thin ‘pancake’ 12 inches in diameter, the pancake about half that size and, without any waffling from me, the waffle is pictured below. They only took a couple of minutes to cook and were served piping hot with my chosen toppings: maple syrup, lemon and sugar, and toffee. It made me feel that mine has to be one of the best jobs in the world! (And just in case you were thinking I ate the lot, I didn’t ‐ I took some home for Mary!)

Lou and Ashley have certainly done their homework; Ashley did the van conversion himself over the last six months to create a fully equipped mobile catering van. Now, with a 5 star hygiene ra ng from Charnwood Borough Council and NCASS, they have everything required to offer a full range of delicious hot crepes, pancakes and waffles with a mouth watering variety of toppings, both sweet and savoury.

If you’d like to book them for your event or to find out more just give them a call on 07557 414 884

Lou & Ashley 07557 414 884

Outside catering for events, parties shows and fairs.

Our entire menu is also available with a wheat and gluten free option at no extra cost.

SGA is an award winning, experienced and forward thinking firm of Architects, Civil & Structural Engineers and Development Consultants.

• Independent care home and sheltered accommodation on separate sites • Not for Profit Charity run by board of local trustees

We maintain the highest degree of creativity whilst using the latest integrated design technology, linked to a firm belief that Client's budgets and time constraints are of paramount importance in achieving successful project delivery.

07511 586000 richard@sga-llp.co.uk www.sga-llp.co.uk

Contact Richard on

• Person Centred care • Assisted independent care • Dementia registered • Daily and weekly activities and trips www.abbeyfieldloughborough.co.uk

01509 266605 44 Westfield Drive, Loughborough, LE11 3QL

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Page 17

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Sileby Vikings Rugby Club Pull 8.5 ton truck 11 miles through the Soar Valley for the 7th successive year!

“Starting out on Saturday 31st August 2013 at midday in Loughborough entering Ward’s End turning right onto Granby Street/Frederick Street and right onto Ashby Road onto the A6 by the Northern end of the Market Place.

The Truck then travels along the old A6 to Quorn, and Mountsorrel arriving for a Pit stop at Rothley Green about 3 to 3.30pm having called at all watering holes on route! The final leg takes them onto Cossington via the Red Lion crossroads, under the A6 stopping off at The Royal Oak and finally arriving at The Free Trade Inn, Sileby about 5.30”

If you want to make a donation find the truck on the day and “chuck us yer money” or if you can’t make it you can send your cheque to Soar Valley Life made out to Hope Against Cancer and we’ll pass it on for you.

Martin Johnson signs up for Hope Against Cancer’s Clogs & Cleats Cycle Challenge to Amsterdam

7th – 11th September 2013 raising vital funds for local cancer charity, Hope Against Cancer in their 10th Anniversary Year.

He will be joined by former team mate Derek Jelley and fifty fellow cyclists aged between 21yrs and 68yrs on the gruelling five day cycle challenge. Leaving Leicester City Centre on Saturday, 7th September, the route will take in Cambridge, Amsterdam and Rotterdam finishing with a 110 mile leg from Hull to Leicester. Their aim is to raise £75,000 for cancer research in Leicester’s Hospitals or Universities.

If you would like to make a donation or take part please visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ClogsandCleats.

To find out more about Hope Against Cancer, please visit their website: www.hfcr.org or telephone the Hope offices 0116 2700101

WIN

a three course Sunday lunch for two at The Free Trade Inn, Sileby THE FREE TRADE INN

For your chance to win a three course Sunday lunch for two at The Free Trade Inn, Sileby just answer the following question: “How do they serve a side order of chips at The Free Trade Inn?” 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. The winner will be drawn at random from all correct answers received by the closing date of 30th July 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Editors’ decision is final.

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 19

New Light Through Old Windows Former Chairman of Rutland Branch of CAMRA takes over Free Trade Inn, Sileby There’s not much recorded history of The Free Trade Inn, one of the last remaining thatched-roofed pubs in Leicestershire. A few old photographs can be found on the Sileby village website - www.silebyvillage.co.uk but not much has been wri en. The 1901 census records only a private dwelling for 27 Cossington Road. Going further back in me the Census for 1861 has no records for Cossington Road at all, as it was then called Cossington End. Maybe there’s a kind local historian somewhere out there who could shed a li le light for us? But I think there’ll be a bit of history in the making going forward from now...

Graham Proud and Lisa James are the new landlord and landlady and have certainly made their mark since they

The earliest known photograph of The Free Trade Inn

took over in March of this year. New guest ales have been appearing regularly and tradi onal Sunday roasts made a welcome return on 26th May. The Free Trade Inn now offers good quality, home cooked food Tuesdays to Sundays at lunch mes.

Mary and I took my Mum to the first Sunday lunch. Good quality all round!

The vegetables freshly cooked, the beef perfect ‐ just slightly on the rare side of medium ‐ roast potatoes as good as you can get anywhere and a

delicious apple pie and custard to finish. We were competently served with a smile by new, young, member of staff Georgia and were surprised to discover a erwards that it had been her very first shi serving food!

Came the me later in the week to sample some real ale from the cellar of a man who really does take a pride in his art. Not being a connoisseur of beer by any means I thought I’d ask for his advice.

“Try this ‐ I knew it was going to be a good one when I tapped in the first so peg on Thursday! It was a bit lively! And it was s ll at it on Saturday.

But it’s well ready now, just look at that!” Graham held it up to the light for me to see; it was dark brown but you could see right through it, as bright as a bu on. Mmm ‐ not bi er at all, a vague hint of chocolate somewhere on my taste buds and I thought I could taste the hops. Think I’ll have another...

Graham & Lisa extend a warm welcome to all

Five ales on handpull + 1 Cider Light bites, daily specials board, main meals, starters and desserts every lunchtime 1, 2 & 3 course traditional Sunday Lunch using local seasonal vegetables and all the trimmings.

Dog friendly

Now serving full English breakfast from 10.30 am; licensed from 11.30 am

THE FREE TRADE INN

Regular Live Music nights Quiz Night every other Tuesday 27 Cossington Road, Sileby, Leicestershire.

LE12 7RW

01509 814494 Excellent selection of good value fine wines.

Find us on Facebook – thefreetradeinn.sileby Follow us on twitter @The_FreeTrade

Feature your business in Soar Valley Life – contact steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Page 19

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The Reshaping of Britain’s Railways It must have happened to you – and it’s certainly happened to me – that you throw away something you think you don’t need any more and then some time later you ďŹ nd a use for it, and it’s too late. It’s gone.

It happened to the whole country in the years 1963 to 1970, when we closed a third of our railway stations and something like 4,000 of our 18,000 miles of railway line.

The axe man always blamed for this carnage is Dr Richard Beeching, chairman of the British Railways Board from 1962 to 1965 and author of the report, ‘The Reshaping of Britain’s Railways’, published in March 1963, which started the slaughter.

He died in 1985 but who was he? And was he entirely to blame?

A physicist by discipline, Beeching rose through the ranks of ICI to become an expert in production

mass manufacture of new products including zips and terylene. In 1959, he was seconded to a committee of the British Transport Commission which was

looking at ways of cutting the railway networkÂ’s losses. These had risen from ÂŁ15.6m in 1956, just after the ambitious modernisation plan that started the replacement of steam by diesel and electric, to ÂŁ42m in 1960.

Powerful forces both in business and in the trade unions favoured road; and the railway, with its long record of failure had no counter-argument Beeching was a great advocate of deep cuts in the network, clashing with committee chairman Sir Ivan Stedeford – a stance which earned him the favour of Transport Minister Ernest Marples. Marples was an apostle of road transport – a fact entirely unconnected

building contracts: he sold

his shares when he took

allowing him to buy them back at the same price – and clearly, Beeching was the man for him. The good doctor was given the chair of the BRB (at a salary more than twice that of the Prime Minister’s) and in March 1963 came out with the required report which was duly rushed into action.

The following year Labour came to power on a promise to stop the bitterly unpopular programme – John Betjeman and the musical comedy stars Flanders & Swann were among its celebrity opponents – but, lured by the promise of easy savings, it reneged.

Beeching himself returned to ICI in late 1965 after the summary rejection of a second report advising even deeper cuts; but Labour continued to implement the 1963 recommendations right up to 1970.

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 21

A Bridge to the Future

The Great Central Railway’s long held ambi on to reunite two sec ons of the line is taking a drama c leap forward.

The GCR is entering a partnership with Network Rail to build a bridge over the Midland Main Line at Loughborough.

Design work is underway and the new structure is expected to be in place by mid 2015.

One of the most an cipated projects on any UK heritage railway, the reunifica on scheme will see a 500 metre, long demolished link between the Great Central Railway PLC (which operates trains between Loughborough and Leicester) and the GCR No ngham Ltd, (which runs between Loughborough and South No ngham) rebuilt. This will create an 18 mile railway linking communi es and a rac ons with a ‘heritage rail highway’. The ini al phase will see the most high profile element of the project built; a new rail bridge to carry Great Central Railway trains over the four tracks of the Midland Main Line which handles high speed passenger services to London.

The case for rebuilding the whole link and recrea ng the 18 mile rail corridor was examined in a feasibility study carried out by Atkins in 2009. It was found to be technically achievable and capable of delivering a wide range of economic benefits to Charnwood and the East Midlands.

“We are delighted to announce this incredible step forward,” said Bill Ford, Managing Director of the Great Central Railway PLC. “Building this bridge unlocks the rest of the re‐unifica on project which will create an a rac on with truly interna onal appeal. We couldn’t have be er partners than Network Rail to deliver this element of the project. The completed railway will bring benefits to the local service sector and create new opportuni es in rail tes ng, training and appren ceships.

"The breakthrough comes a er many years of pa ent work by Great Central Railway Development, a company specially formed to push the reunifica on forward. Led by respected rail industry

BR Standard 5 no 73010 crosses the original Great Central bridge across the Midland Line in Summer 1963 (c) T G HEPBURN Rail Archive journalist Nigel Harris, GCRD was instrumental in recovering two redundant rail bridges, previously used

by Network Rail at Reading. The bridges were moved to Loughborough in 2011. In their new life, they’ll be placed ‘end to end’ to create a new single track line above the Midland Main Line.

The other elements of the overall project include repairing an exis ng canal bridge, building a new bridge over Railway Terrace Road in Loughborough and replacing a missing embankment. The es mated cost for the complete scheme is £8m. However it’s an cipated the installa on of the rail bridge will accelerate progress towards the ‘golden spike’ moment when the two sec ons of the GCR are reunited. Trains could be running over the full 18 mile railway within five years. The GCR has launched an immediate appeal, called “Bridge to the Future” with the aim of raising the one million pounds required to pay for the work. While Network Rail are partners who will design and manage the construc on, they won’t be inves ng public money.

“There is huge interest and excitement amongst both railway enthusiasts and the general public in seeing this project succeed,” said Mark Fowler of Great

Central Railway No ngham Ltd. “It is vitally important to us that the local communi es join us in this vision. It will drive economic benefit during construc on and in the longer term too.

So we look forward to support for the appeal locally, to make that posi ve difference a reality in our part of the East Midlands”.

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Page 21

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A Bridge to the Future con Phil Verster, Route Managing Director for Network Rail, added “Our electrifica on teams are already making significant changes to the infrastructure in this area so it’s the ideal opportunity to get the bridge in place, with minimal disrup on and cost. Once the full scheme is complete it will bring significant economic benefits to the region as well as reinsta ng a piece of our railway heritage.”

Reunifica on has made significant progress in recent years with the support of many local stakeholders, not least Loughborough’s Member of Parliament, Nicky Morgan. "This is an incredibly exci ng project for Loughborough, Leicestershire and beyond and I am

nued

delighted to give it my whole‐hearted support. We have all seen the bridges lying next to the GCR sta on in Loughborough. To realise that, with the support of Network Rail and other key par es, their re‐use to bring together the two parts of the Great Central Railway is now within sight, is a thrilling prospect. I am convinced that reunifica on will bring big benefits to our local economy and I do hope everyone locally will support this important first step."

Nigel Harris, Chairman of Great Central Railway Development concluded: "This agreement is the start of the Great Central’s most exci ng adventure yet; the delivery of a vision of an intercity heritage railway. It's been a very long

haul to get to this point, especially over the last 20 years, but what has unlocked the problem has been Network Rail's willingness to work in partnership with GCR, Charnwood Borough Council, Loughborough MP Nicky Morgan and other stakeholders.

The whole community is invited to par cipate. If you’ve ever wanted to see this happen, now is the me to act!”

To support the appeal, or for more informa on about building the bridge and the rest of the reunifica on project head to the GCR website (www.gcrailway.co.uk/unify) and click on the “Bridge to the Future” link. Dona ons can be made securely using a credit or debit card.

An ar st’s impression of how the new bridge that will cross the Midland Mainline will look when it is in place.

Hair@Home

...and they lived

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Page 22

Affordable Wedding Dresses available from stock 5 Barkby Road Syston Leics LE7 2AG Open Saturdays 10am - 4pm Weekday Appointments

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email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 23

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

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Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 24

Recipe

L Lemon emon Chicken Chicken with with Tabbouleh Tabbouleh Serves 4

R eady in 45 minutes minutes Ready

This is a great way to turn simple and very economical chicken portions into a delicious Mediterranean-style supper. If you have time, make the tabbouleh a few hours in advance to let the avours fully develop.

IIngredients: ngredients: • 1 lemon, thinly sliced • 4 large chicken thigh portions (or 8 small thigh portions) • 4 tbsp olive oil • 3 tbsp lemon juice • 2 tbsp clear honey, warmed • 225g bulgar wheat (see tip) • - & & # , * • 4 spring onions, trimmed and , * !"" • 2 tbsp fresh chopped mint • 2 tbsp fresh chopped coriander • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Tip: Tip:

Bulgar wheat is a type of wheat grain that has been parboiled, # % , * #&$ % $ similar to couscous but has !# % )%&# % !&+ , it in most large supermarkets or % !! $ !"$

Page 24

Preheat the oven to 190C, 375F, Gas &$ ! $ & # % $ ! % % % $" ! % oil in a frying pan and fry the chicken over a medium-high heat until golden #!( !' # # $ # %! $ !( roasting tin and arrange the rest of the ! $ $ #!& % Mix together 1 tbsp of the lemon juice with the honey and pour over the ! $% !# &% $ & % !! % #!& Meanwhile, place the bulgar wheat into a bowl and pour over enough boiling ( % # %! !' # ' !# &% $ & % # $ # $! % % # ( # ! * ) $$ ( % # Stir in the rest of the olive oil and lemon juice and season with plenty of salt # $ * #!& " "" #

the cucumber, spring onions, mint and !# # ) ( #' % !% roast chicken on the tabbouleh with any & $ #! % #! $% % "!&# !' #

Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 25

Manufacturers and Installers of PVC Windows, Doors and Conservatories

h Established 1991

Mark Whelband

All work carries a 10 year insurance backed guarantee

“Our goal is to delight existing clients and prospective customers�

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Specialist window repairs sealed unit an , lock replacem d en Call us now fo t. expert advice.r

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 26

fo Ju r a st fam ÂŁ2 ily 0 of

Teddy Bears' Picnic Great Central Railway

Tues 23rd to Thurs 25th July Tues 30th July to Thurs 1st August Tues 6th August to Thurs 8th August

School Holiday Sale!

� Watch out for our lovable and mischievous bears, Billy the soldier bear and Beatrice the princess bear, they’ll be riding on the Teddy Bear trains throughout the day �

â—?

Hop on and off at any of our 4 stations and travel all day for just ÂŁ20 for the whole family! â—? Craft market at Loughborough â—? Face painting

Colouring in & bouncy castle at the new cafe at Leicester North â—? Visit the miniature garden railway at Rothley â—?

Picnic with the Teddy Bears at Leicester, Rothley & Quorn â—?

â—? Mini funfair at Rothley Picnic boxes on sale. Refreshments available all day

Teddy bear hunt with prize for the winner FREE sweets on the teddy bear trains for every child bringing their teddy â—?

â—?

Fares (all day travel - hourly timetable) 2 adults & up to 3 children - ÂŁ20 1 adult & up to 3 children - ÂŁ12 Adult runabout - ÂŁ10

Enquiries:

01509 632323

Book on line www.gcrailway.co.uk

5!

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 27

JOIN COSTCO

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Costco is a membership warehouse club that sells a wide selection of top quality brand name merchandise at low warehouse prices.

Speciality departments include Fresh Deli and Produce, In-House Bakery and Butchery, Service Deli, Cafe, Tyre Centre, Opticians, Fine Wines, Beers and Spirits, Electrical Appliances and much much more!

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For further information, please contact our Membership Team at Costco Leicester on

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Accepted methods of payment: cash, debit card, cheque or American Express. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made.

Costco Leicester Westmoreland Ave, Thurmaston Leicester Leicestershire LE4 8PH T: 0116 269 0730 E: marketing123@costco.co.uk Central Membership: 01923 830 477 www.costco.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 28

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Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 29

Congratula ons to

Diana Longwith of Mountsorrel who wins the picnic bench from George Walker of Syston.

Diana’s entry of £120 was the first correct answer out of the hat to the ques on, ‘What is the price of this rectangular picnic bench, including VAT, available from George Walker Limited of Syston?’

Open Studio

Thursday 1st August 2013 5.00pm to 9.00pm &

Saturday 3rd August 2013 10.00am to 4.00pm Helen Joyce, local artist, opens her Smithy Studio to the public, to see work in progress and to give you the chance to discuss her inspiration creating pieces of art.

This special event will be showcasing her working practice and demonstrating creative techniques.

Helen will also be introducing her new venture Captured Portrait and a percentage of proceeds from the open studio events will go to Killing Cancer & Bamenda Orphanage, Cameroon.

HELEN JOYCE BA (HONS) FINE ART Smithy Studio, Wood Street, Ashby de la Zouch Leicestershire, LE65 1EL

www.facebook.com/capturedportrait

www.twitter.com/captureportrait

www.CAPTUREDportrait.co.uk

A Leicestershire ar st is opening her studio to show her contemporary pain ngs about places from 5 to 5,000 miles away and to introduce a new area of her work which is gaining in popularity to a younger contemporary audience...

CAPTURED, THE ART OF YOU, are commissioned pain ngs that are inspired by the events, places, objects and people that have been important in a life. "They are like a portrait without a face; a visual cryp c crossword which give a vision of a person through what has been woven into their life,'" said Helen Joyce who graduated from the University of Derby with a First in Fine Art and who has since worked from her studio in Ashby de la Zouch. "My work is painterly in style and intui ve; it is that that gives the dynamic. You do not see the whole picture at once as there is always something new to be found in different lights, different stories to be imagined, and that is what people like about my work.”

The pain ngs on show in the studio annexed to her home, a former forge da ng from 1770, are mainly acrylics. She exhibits regularly and her pain ngs have been bought by businesses and buyers from as far away as Costa Rica and South Korea. She is hoping to travel to Cameroon early in 2014 and is contribu ng a commission from any pain ngs to the Bamenda Orphanage Project and Killing Cancer chari es. Some smaller prints and cards will also be available.

Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Page 29

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 30

She should have gone to Baby Gosling!

According to the London Evening Standard back in April 2011, pregnant Victoria Beckham cried when she couldn’t find her dream baby buggy...

Upon discovering that she was having a girl and a er doing loads of research, Mrs Beckham had set her heart on the grape coloured £1,100 iCandy baby buggy pictured here and excitedly set about choosing accessories. When she found later that it was unavailable in any shops ICandy Apple

worldwide or online she became ‘inconsolable’. She trawled the internet for days on end, went undercover in a big hat and sunglasses roo ng through top department stores in Los Angeles and even went on eBay trying to find her dream buggy.

“I’m not sure if we had it in stock at the me ‐ but we have now!” said Richard Gosling of Baby Gosling. Richard and his wife Helen have stores in both Syston and Melton Mowbray and he took me through the range of baby equipment on display in their Syston shop.

There are more than thirty different buggies from a dozen manufacturers, ranging from the iCandy at over £1,000 to simple pushchairs from £19.99. There are carry cots, car seats, stair‐gates, Moses baskets, nursery sets, blankets, and for me the most amazing technological development ‐ a Mamaroo baby rocker which bounces and sways along with soothing sounds of a car ride, The five sound & mo on op ons on the Mamaroo baby rocker

From this...to this in 5 seconds!

The Yoyo baby buggy from Babyzen

an ocean wave, the gentle breeze of a tree swing and more. Since my two kids found their feet twenty something years ago I haven’t no ced or given much thought as to how much technology and design has been applied to this most essen al range of products.

“But," I tell Richard, “I have no ced the advantage of having kids when I’ve been in an airport and parents with children are allowed to board first!”

“Just look at this, then!”

And in about five seconds Richard showed me how easy it was to transform a very sturdy buggy into a neat square package smaller and lighter than a on board flight case. Makes me think…

“Parents today, they don’t know they’re born!”

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servicing and valet on all buggies bought in-store during the lifetime of the warranty. non customers valeting starts from £10.00

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Page 30

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 31

Parkside Nursery School 25 Charnwood Road, Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 2BN

Telephone 01509 213329

email parkside.school@googelmail.com Long Established Qualified Staff Fantastic garden area Small and homely Competitive prices Term-time options available

throughout July and August 2013

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.

email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

Page 31

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Snapshots

Phillip Mark McGough

It’s the holiday season and I will say from the outset that I’ll be staying in Britain.

Norfolk is mooted, something to do with boats although I’m notoriously unseaworthy and nearly drowned in my next door neighbour’s ornamental pond a few years ago while retrieving a football. Note to self: pack water wings in addi on to socks and sandals - somebody has to rock the Englishman abroad look, even if he stays at home, and it may as well be me...

Tourism ‐ like football, cricket, and the ba ered Mars Bar‐ is something else Britain gave to the world, a legacy of the Industrial Revolu on and the growth of the leisured classes in the late 18th Century. As Britain’s pretensions to global hegemony expanded, so, paradoxically, we began to Page 32

explore and take pleasure in our own shores, and the seaside holiday was born. It emerged of course as an extension of the much older tradi on of the spa, o en promoted by enterprising medical men and building on popular sea‐bathing tradi ons shared with much of coastal Catholic Europe, which saw the sea as having peculiarly rejuvena ng powers at the me of the August spring des.

Patronage from royalty (say, at Brighton) led to the rapid development of the seaside resort as the epitome of pleasure and frivolity. The roman c re‐imagining of the seaside conspired to make the shoreline an a rac ve object of ar s c contempla on and composi on, with its own vocabulary of stereotyped wonder. To put all of the above another way, I miss our family holidays in Blackpool.

From, roughly, 1974 to 1982, we’d go to Blackpool every year‐ me, mum, dad, my brother, my grandparents and the occasional aunt or cousin. The other day my mum and I were looking through a box of photographs labeled ‐ for the sake of clarity ‐ “Blackpool.” It was the first me I’d seen these old Polaroids in years. I was born in 1974 but in many of them‐ up to the late 70s‐ I’m s ll part of the black‐and‐white

world. Everyone is there, like the cast in a play you vaguely remember ac ng in, but which is now comprehensible only from the vantage point of a spectator. Mum and dad, happy, proud, part of a team, a messy divorce s ll a decade or more in the future; my older brother, sipping his first pint of bi er and pretending to enjoy it; Aunty Hilda, looking good for a woman who even then had already lost two husbands and nine‐tenths of her sanity. The pictures I find most incongruous are those showing my grandad playing football with me on the beach or carrying me high on his shoulders, though my last coherent memories of him are as an old and sick man dying slowly and expensively of various untreatable disorders in hospital. Here he is strong and very much in charge‐ his rolled‐ up shirtsleeves rhyming with his rolled‐up trousers. These were the days remember, when men wore es, even at the beach.

Especially at the beach.

Then there are the people I don’t know at all except from photographs: my gran holding my hand as we walk to the sea, an unexpectedly tall and elegant lady who I simply cannot remember in real life. This is the power of photographs and the power of holiday photographs in par cular: they are evidence‐

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:10 Page 33

in‐chief that we forget. It’s something to do with the nature of the photograph itself, I suppose, as a living document; there will hardly be the same poignancy, I dare say, when my own children look at me on their smartphones or tablet or Google Glass or augmented reality interface or whatever they’re using fi y years hence.

Back in those days of course, those days of the photograph, the only virtual entertainment I can remember is the car radio ‐ and an indispensable thing it was. How else would we have

made it from the Midlands to Blackpool just by talking to each other? There are, indeed, a few photos of us inside the car, en route; what amazes me is not that we managed to fit so many people into my grandad’s old Triumph 2500, but that we all endured the journey at least once a year without killing each other. Yet how naïve we all look; how confident and op mis c in our limitless futures. These were the days before Mrs Thatcher, before the Internet, before hashtags, before most people I hear on the car radio today were even born.

Then there’s me, of course: the li le boy making sandcastles and collec ng seashells who is now approaching forty and has children of his own. He was so blonde and curly. Now he’s bald and careworn. We are frozen in me, like figures on a Greek vase, telling a story. Not necessarily a true story, more like a myth, a private mythology‐ inspiring thoughts of laughter and sadness, tragedy and comedy, as only photographs can…

Phillip Mark McGough

Sam specialises in hand painted interiors using a range of wall coverings and finishes to suit every style and budget. Sam’s contracts over the last couple of years have been in the extensive renovation and refurbishment of some very exclusive properties in the Cotswolds, and he now wants to bring his experience closer to home in Charnwood and the surrounding area.

Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £25 per month plus VAT

Page 33

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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

Page 34

Feature your business in Soar Valley Life – contact steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 35

Looking A er Those Le Behind When someone close to you dies, as well as coping with the emo onal upheaval there are o en financial implica ons to deal with...

You may be le with sole responsibility for a mortgage and household bills, or the cost of childcare and other expenses of raising a family, but on a significantly reduced household income.

This can be par cularly relevant if couples are neither married nor in a Civil Partnership, as they won't automa cally inherit if there isn't a Will.

The impact of this can be especially harsh if the person who died was the sole owner of the property in which the couple lived.

Even if the person who died did have a Will, circumstances may have changed since it was made, meaning that the financial provision for those le behind is no longer adequate. This may be because children have been born, or the value of the estate could have altered significantly, or a

family member may have a disability. In such situa ons, it may be possible to ask the court to change the way that someone's estate is distributed, to be er reflect the needs of those that were married to, living with, or maintained by the person that has died. It is important to act quickly, as claims have to be made within 6 months of a Grant of Probate or Le ers of Administra on. Most claims, however, are se led by agreement and without the need for a court hearing.

If you are concerned that bereavement may cause you financial difficulty, and would like to discuss whether an applica on to vary the distribu on of an estate might be appropriate, contact our Dispute Resolu on Department: Nick Gay n.gay@moss-solicitors.co.uk or Laura Anderson l.anderson@moss-solicitors.co.uk or telephone 01509 217770

MOSS SOLICITORS LLP Twice awarded winner of Leicestershire Law Society’s County Law Firm of the Year 80-81 Woodgate, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 2XE

01509 217770 and Unit 11a Whitwick Business Centre, Stenson Road, Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 4JP

01530 815747

www.moss-solicitors.co.uk Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Page 35

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 36

Walking – King’s Brook Walk instruc ons 5 1/4 Miles

2 1/2 Hours

Find a parking space in Stanford on Soar; no facili es.

1 Take the minor road towards Cotes across the bridge to the footpath signpost, turn le along the path with King’s Brook to the le , for two miles, past Black‐a‐Moor’s Spinney and the lake to the low marker post.

2 With the brook s ll le con nue along the permissive path, bearing right and re‐join the path straight on at the footbridge. Carry on for another 400yds to the marker post.

3 Turn right uphill, with the hedge to the right and turn right at the yellow post at the summit.

4 Con nue between hedges and the le hand field edge, past Rigget’s Spinney, to the marker post at the corner.

5 Take the field edge right to the next marker post and turn le along the track between fields.

A er 260yds, bear right on a path between the hedge and the trees; keep on the path down to the road.

6 Turn right, along this surprisingly busy road, back into Stanford on Soar village to find your vehicle. © Clive Brown ‐

Page 36

www.walkingcloseto.com or email him directly at : walkingclose@yahoo.co.uk

email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 37

Gareth Ga a Hudson MCFHP MAFHP

Fo oo Health Professional Foot Visiting Practice For all your foot care needs in the comfort of your own home: + Nails

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• Professional oven cleaning • 100% biodegradable materials • Local, friendly service • We also clean hobs, microwaves, extractors & even BBQs! Call now for a free quotation

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www.theovencleaningcomp.com Offer price based on single residential oven with average use.

This advert must be produced to qualify.

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Page 37

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0800 619 1155 01509 557 223 07450 002996 charnwoodtaxis@gmail.com www.charnwoodairporttaxis.co.uk

One price day or night!

E.M.A £22.00

(£15 from Loughborough)

B.I.A £45.00 Luton £70.00 Manchester £100.00

Heathrow £100.00 Stanstead £100.00 Gatwick £130.00 Southampton £135.00

Prices shown are for a car travelling one way, day or night

NO CHARGES FOR PARKING OR WAITING! Lowest prices in Charnwood!

Please check web site for further discount details & terms & conditions

Regular journeys undertaken, long or short.

Page 38

Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 39

A conservatory is not just for summer...

More of us are adding a conservatory as a clever way of crea ng more living space. But with so many windows you can feel exposed and it can seem daun ng to know where to begin to choose the right type of blind to reduce the suns glare and add protec on for your furniture, while s ll giving you that wow factor...

Before making a decision here are a few things to consider: What the room is being used for? Think about using a darker colour and/or a more opaque fabric to reduce glare in a TV room, lounge or home office. Go for one blind per glass panel if possible as smaller blinds are easier to operate; they may cost more ini ally but will last longer and be more reliable.

Pleated roof blinds with a high performing reflec ve coa ng will give more protec on to your furniture and be an investment in the longer term. It's less cri cal to have reflec ve coated fabrics on the side windows, but pleated blinds are s ll a great choice as they fold away neatly.

For a sleek and contemporary look opt for a pleated or Vene an blind in a Perfect Fit frame. This system requires no drilling or screws and gives enhanced privacy as the blinds ‘hug’ the window and cover any light gaps.

Conservatory blinds, roof blinds and Perfect Fit blinds are available in many colours and fabrics from Acacia Curtains and Blinds.

Contact Judy Andrews Tel – 01509 650832 M – 07881 681556

For appointments call or text: Physiotherapy & Acupuncture

07884493809

www.walk-inphysio.co.uk • info@walk-inphysio.co.uk

email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

Page 39

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 40

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Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 41

Your Space, your Kitchen, your Budget Bespoke means you get what you want at a price you can afford with AMW Kitchens...

Andy Webb of AMW kitchens took me to see his latest project, installed in a week from start to finish, at the home of Mr and Mrs Birch of Barrow upon Soar.

Andy said, “A lot of people come to me a er they’ve been elsewhere with a plan in their hand. O en they’re resigned to compromising on quality to get a cheaper price, or to just ge ng part of what they really wanted in the first place because of the shape of the available space. They’ve been told, ‘You can’t put that there because of the pipes, there’s a socket in the way, there’s not enough space or the boiler’s in the wrong place.’

I say why not?

With Mr and Mrs Birch’s kitchen we made a unit to encase the boiler so that it’s easily accessible for servicing; we made maximum use of the space in the far corner by crea ng a narrow sliding drawer to store upright baking trays

and roas ng ns right next to the built in oven with a smaller cupboard next to the integrated freezer drawers under the worktop.

This one was a bit of a challenge because they’d had an old pantry removed which le an awkward space, and they didn’t want cupboards anywhere above the work tops. So we made floor to ceiling store cupboards tucked out of the way and a breakfast bar in the rest of the space where the old pantry had been.”

Mrs Birch told me, “Andy was recommended to us by the builder we chose to rebuild this part of the house which included taking out the old pantry, pu ng in new windows and moving the door and the old u lity room. Andy was involved at the planning stage and helped us source everything including the fridge which fits in two sliding drawers; he purpose built the units behind the breakfast bar and the store cupboards. We wanted to create a simple kitchen with no clu er at the same me as making the most of

the space we had available. Our builder had created more light with the extra windows and we didn’t want that effect spoiled by having units above the worktops. Andy really has provided us with a unique kitchen exactly as we had planned and he liaised with us every step of the way. Even the worktops are extra deep to accommodate the boiler and drawer fridge. Compared to what we had before, this has added thousands to the value of our house, much more than the cost of the work.”

Andy works with his customers to create the kitchen they want; he sources the best products and the best prices and employs only gas safe plumbers and qualified electricians. He charges only for the me taken to install and adds nothing onto the cost of the units and appliances. There are many tes monials and recommenda ons on his website and looking at the quality of his work and listening to Mrs Birch I am sure he has many sa sfied customers, with many more to come...

Kitchens Fitted • Kitchens and worktops supplied at trade prices

Have your kitchen how you want it at a budget you can afford

• Having invested in your dream kitchen ensure that it is fitted to an exacting standard Andy Webb of AMW Kitchens

• 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 Where bespoke really means..

Your kitchen made to your order!

Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £25 per month plus VAT

Page 41

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The Best of All Worlds Bunny Appliance Warehouse has been here for 25 years selling the best ‘high-end’ domes c appliances with a service second to none at the lowest possible prices...

You wouldn’t expect to find such a range of products here; the building was erected for Rolls Royce Aero division around the me of the second world war, producing small engineering parts. It was sold to Bri sh Gypsum who used it for storage for a me and then it remained empty un l 1986 when Paul Kemp’s company moved in.

You’ll find it at the bo om of Bunny Hill, just before you enter the ny village of Bunny a li le over 8 miles from Loughborough town centre.

Bunny Appliance Warehouse has proved to be one of the regions best kept secrets. With a legion of loyal customers built up over the last 25 years they now have a hugely successful website as well as a packed showroom full of the latest big‐name appliances. Buy on‐line or direct from the showroom and you’ll s ll get their trademark great service, incredibly compe ve prices and huge choice of top brand kitchen appliances.

They’re now one of the na on’s

Page 42

largest appliance retailers, but you’ll s ll get personal service as good as you can get anywhere.

Managing Director Paul Kemp says, “Here at Bunny we like to pride ourselves on having the choice of products you can find in Curry’s with the level of service and product knowledge you come to expect from somewhere like John Lewis. And of course we are really compe ve on price too!

We operate na onally but our heart remains very much local and I can honestly say that all the team here are passionate about what they do, ensuring our customers come back me a er me. For me, our customer service and the ability to offer the absolute best prices, keep us in the hearts and minds of our customers.

Our showroom display includes

Range cookers, American style fridge freezers, washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers and more. We have a great selec on of built in appliances from premium brands such as Siemens, LG, Stoves, Rangemaster, Neff, Miele, Smeg and De Dietrich.

Feel free to visit our showroom for expert advice on any of the items on our website or call our sales team to discuss your requirements. We are open six days a week but if you have a ques on out of hours feel free to drop us an e‐mail and we will respond quickly with the informa on you need.”

Mary and I can certainly vouch for the level of a en on, best prices and choice you receive from Bunny Appliance Warehouse, and that you really do get the best of all worlds when you deal with these guys!

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 43

Why buyy from us?

• Established family business

Our showroom display features a large selection of both built-in and freestanding appliances, including ovens, hobs, dishwashers, fridge freezers and laundry products.

And if that’s not enough, why not come in and see our wine room for an excellent selection of wine coolers which are powered up, full of wine and ready for a demonstration!

• We are the appliance specialists • Highly competitive internet prices and deals for multiple products available • Large showroom with many products on display and available for demonstration • Expert sales team offering great advice and product knowledge • Excellent reviews and feedback from thousands of happy customers • Next day delivery service available on many products

Bunny Appliance Warehouse, Bunny Trading Estate, Gotham Lane, Bunny, Nottingham NG11 6QJ

Tel: 0115 984 4357

www.appliancecity.co.uk ©NM

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 44

Spot Ten Differences Answers on page 47

Reflexology as Effec ve as Pain Killers 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

Page 44

A new EU-wide study by The Work Founda on has found that musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain, neck pain and RSI type condi ons account for 49% of all absences from work and 60% of permanent work incapacity...

Of course, these figures do not take into account the much larger number of people who suffer less serious pain without seeking treatment and who o en resort to strong pain killers which can cause other symptoms such as cons pa on, which then has to be treated with further medica on.

However, a recent study at the University of Portsmouth has found that people felt about 40% less pain, and could stand pain for about 45% longer, when using reflexology as a method of pain relief.

Par cipants were asked to submerge their hand in ice water; in one session they were given reflexology before submerging their hand and in another session they believed they were receiving pain relief from a Tens machine ‐ which was not actually switched on. Dr Carol Samuel, a trained reflexologist who carried out the experimental procedures as part of her PhD studies, said it was the first me this therapy had been scien fically tested as a treatment for acute pain.

She said the results suggested that reflexology could be used to complement conven onal drug therapy in the treatment of condi ons associated with pain such as osteoarthri s, backache and cancers.

At Reed Wellbeing I am seeing more and more people suffering from chronic pain ‐ in par cular back and neck pain. As a Member of the NHS Directory of Complementary and Alterna ve Prac oners I am ge ng an increased number of referrals from doctors and other medical professionals. Private health insurers like Simply Health now include Reflexology in their packages. The benefits are obviously being recognised...

by Paula Reed of Reed Wellbeing www.reedwellbeing.co.uk

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 45

01509 414 169

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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 Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £25 per month plus VAT

Page 45

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What’s On in and around The Soar Valley: Compiled by Claire Stevens – Soar Valley Life events and news reporter

Family Fun around the Abbey ruins!

The Festival of British Archaeology continues at Abbey Park.

This family fun filled day includes a guided walk at 2pm, led by an archaeologist, a display of the original Abbey ruins within the park, and a quiz.

Abbey Park, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE4 5AQ Dates: Monday 24th June to Wednesday 24th July 2013 Contact: 0116 2333 025 Bakers Arms Open Mic Enjoy a relaxed evening of acoustic music, hosted in the bar of the oldest pub in the county! Everyone can join in with the playing, or just sit and listen, with all musical styles and instruments welcome. Meet every Tuesday at 8:30pm, with the first Tuesday of every month including the stage lights and Bose PA for the Open Mic night, from 8:30 – 11pm.

Bakers Arms, The Green, Blaby, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE8 4FQ Tuesday 16th July and Tuesday 23rd July Contact: 0116 2848009 Melton Mowbray Friday Car Boot & Collectors Market Car boot sale and collectors market hosted every Friday at Melton Mowbray Cattle Market, held under covered stalls adjacent to the long established Farmer’s Market that sells local produce. This allows it to be open in all weathers, with free public entry and free car parking. Stalls are always available with no booking required. Open from 7am – 1pm with stalls from £5 per week.

Cattle Market, Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 1JY Dates: Fri 12th July, Fri 19th July, Fri 26th July, Fri 2nd August, Fri 9th August and Fri 16th August Contact: 07771611887 Leicester Vocal Tech Summer School Leicester Vocal Tech summer school is a one week summer school held from July 22nd to July 26th 2013.

It is open for ages 6 to 16, with five hours per day in singing, dancing and drama lessons.

6 to 9 years 9:30am – 2:30pm 10 to 13 years 10:30am – 3:30pm 14 to 16 years 11:30pm – 4:30pm Leicester Vocal Tech, 32 Swan Street, Leicester, LE3 5AW Dates: Monday 22nd July to Friday 26th July 2013 Contact: 0116 2221 268 www.leicestervocaltech.co.uk Teddy Bear’s Picnic Hop on and off at any of the four stations and travel all day for only £20 for the whole family! With the chance to meet Billy the soldier bear and Beartrice the princess bear and share a picnic with the teddy bears. Join Great Central Railway for affordable, all weather family fun. Family tickets for £20 includes 2 adults and up to 3 children, and family tickets for £12 for 1 adult and up to 3 children. Adult runabout ticket £10 and senior runabout also £10. Child runabout ticket (2 years or over) £5 and children under 2 years free of charge. Open from 9am to 4pm.

Great Central Railway, Great Central Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1RW

Page 46

Dates: Tuesday 23rd July to Thursday 25th July, Tuesday 30th July to Thursday 1st August and Tuesday 6th August to Thursday 8th August 2013 Contact: 01509 632323 The Last Journeys of King Richard III The Festival of Archaeology with Leicester Civic Society hosts expert guided walks. Relive in the streets of Leicester the dramatic events of seven days in August of 1485, when the King of England arrives.

Walks taking place from 10:30am – 12:50pm and 11:00am – 1:20pm.

Bow Bridge, St. Augustine’s Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE3 5PT Dates: Saturday 27th July 2013 Contact: 07899708465 www.archaeologyfestival.org.uk Dogs ’R’ Us Take your canine friend and go along to the gala day and dog show. With lots of things to see and do; including dog behaviour demonstrations, a fun dog show, archery and children’s fun area with plenty of side stalls too. Animals will be available for viewing on the day.

Open from 11am to 5pm, with £2 admission but accompanied children under 12 years are free.

RSPCA Woodside Animal Centre, 190 Scudamore Road, Leicester, LE3 1UQ Dates: Sunday 11 Aug 2013 Contact: 0116 2324932 www.rspcaleicester.co.uk Wedding Fayre at The Link Hotel Visit the fayre to sample imago’s multi‐award winning venues, with some of the best venues in the region. The event also showcases a variety of suppliers, who offer everything from dresses and suits to cakes and floral arrangements.

Open from 11am to 3pm with free admission and free car parking.

The Link Hotel, New Ashby Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 4EX Dates: Sunday 1st September 2013 Contact: 01509 211 800 www.welcometoimago.com/weddings The Freestyle Show The Freestyle Show features the most exciting and adrenaline pumping sports from around the UK. It features some of the finest freestyle motocross riders, doing the best tricks possible, with the world’s best motorcycle drifters racing around a dirt track on bikes that accelerate to 60pmh in the same time as a formula one racing car, but have no brakes to slow them down! With all this excitement thrown in with a mix of family entertainment, it’s the perfect day for both adults and children. Gates open at 11am.

LEICESTER SPEEDWAY LIMITED, The Pavilion, Beaumont Way, Beaumont Leys, Leicester LE4 1DS Dates: Saturday 14th September 2013 Contact: www.thefreestyleshow.co.uk

Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Soar Valley July/Aug 2013_Layout 1 27/06/2013 10:11 Page 47

Solu ons Towns and Villages Quiz Answers 1.

Michael Bolton ‐ his birth name was Michael Bolo n 2. Jam And Jerusalem 3. Leicestershire 4. Greendale ‐ in the Postman Pat cartoons 5. Has ngs 6. Crinkley Bo om 7. Staines 8. Borstals ‐ named a er the village of Borstal 9. The Prisoner 10. Wales‐the village is Llanfair‐pwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrn‐ drobwllllantysiliogogogoch Spot Ten Differences 1. Number of fish 2. Octopus mouth 3. Plant leaf

4. Bubbles 5. Shorts colour 6. Stones 7. Eyes 8. Tank Strap 9. Shark Gills 10. Finger missing Sudoku Solu on

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Down: 1 Cyprus, 2 Laos, 3 Scree, 4 Pancake, 5 Babe, 6 Helsinki, 9 Twain, 12 Idolatry, 14 Brass, 15 Decibel, 18 Shares, 19 Spasm, 21 Anna, 23 Ewer.

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.

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