Soarvalley junjul13 issuu

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Sileby and Mountsorrel Edi on 15,000 magazines delivered by Royal Mail every two months

Issue 15 June/July 2013

Priceless

This edi on is delivered by Royal Mail to all 7,700 addresses in LE12 7: Sileby, Mountsorrel, Seagrave &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 & Cropston Next month’s 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, & 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 & Hathern

Compe ons Country Walk Recipe Puzzles Business advice Motoring Trades and Services

www.soarvalleylife.co.uk Copy deadline for July issue Tuesday 25th June

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Changes...

Some we choose, some we don’t, but does every change have a silver lining?

Did you no ce we’ve changed the format of our front cover? We’ve lost the top block colour banner which carried our logo, issue number, date and distribu on details. Like most people we don’t like change for change’s sake, but we felt that it’s be er to use the space to show more of the photograph, especially now that professional photographer Rebecca Soanes supplies our front cover images; she has also agreed to provide us with monthly ps, which we’ll start next month, to help all of us take be er photographs.

We’ve introduced two new sizes of advert: a 1/6th and a 1/3rd of a page. We felt the 1/8th was too small and didn’t allow for enough image space. We’ve also decided to increase our distribu on area to include two more postcode areas. So, from September we’ll be distribu ng to Burton on the Wolds round to Hathern in LE12 5 area and Rothley, Cropston and Thurcaston in LE7 7. This will increase our distribu on to more than 22,000 over two months crea ng a larger readership than any other magazine in Charnwood.

We hope you’ll find our ‘What’s On’ page a welcome addi on to the magazine and we’re proud to announce that Claire Stevens will be compiling this for us each month.

Claire has just finished her BA in English and Journalism at De Mon ort University in Leicester; we are very pleased she has agreed to help out and we look forward to new ideas providing us with a younger perspec ve.

And change we don’t choose...

There are some appliances you can do without for a few days, others you can’t. When our integrated fridge­freezer decided to give up the ghost we needed a new one urgently and looked around for a supplier. We always try to prac ce what we preach so we tried to find someone local offering the best value and service; there were none adver sing with us, or in any of the compe tor magazines delivering in our area.

Then I remembered a warehouse I’d driven past now and again over the years, opera ng from old factory premises in Bunny near East Leake, not far from where my Mum lives. I checked them out on the internet and drove over to view their impressive showroom where we were able to buy exactly what we needed from stock and bring it home ourselves. We took the old one out and, with the help of a neighbour, fi ed the new one in and all was back to normal in just a few hours ­easy!

I men oned to the sales guy at Bunny Appliance Warehouse that our li le magazine could probably do a good job in ge ng them be er known in our area. He agreed, and so did their marke ng department. See their advert and feature on pages 32 and 33.

If ‘every cloud has a silver lining’ then I dare say ‘every change has a silver lining’ too...

Steve & Mary Johns

Editors ­ Soar Valley Life Page 2

“Poppies” by Rebecca Soanes© 12th July 2012 in the village of Linton, on the Derbys/Leics/Staffs border Rebecca says: “This was a typical day that year ­ poppies were beau fully lit up in sunlight; but as usual there was heavy rain following from behind!”

The full sized limited edi on canvass print of this photograph is on display at Ferrers Gallery, Staunton Harold Hall, near Ashby de la Zouch. h p://www.ferrersgallery.co.uk/ h p://www.rebeccasoanesphotography.co.uk/

Contents

Local Op cian Sets Sights on Spectators Poem – The First Smile If you Fail to Plan you Plan to Fail Quiz – Mothers and Fathers Happy Motoring Clean up your Pa o & Prepare to Party Wall to Wall Service, Courtesy & Value Compe on – Win a Picnic Bench General Knowledge Crossword Easy Sudoku New Light through Old Windows Sileby Vikings Rugby Club do it again!

Compe on ­ Win Sunday Lunch for Two Recipe – Cheese, Bacon and Onion Pie Loulou’s – an Enterprise with Taste We’ll always have Paris Moss Solicitors Lend a Helping Hand Walking King’s Brook Meal for Two Winner Mixing – not Matching The Best of all Worlds Spot the Difference Reflexology as Effec ve as Pain Killers?

What’s On Answers to Puzzles

4 6 8 9 10 10 12 14 15 16 18 19 19 20 23 24 27 28 29 31 32 36 36 38 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 Trades and Services Builders Merchants John A Stephens Wanlip Sand and Gravel

39 11

Child Care and Educa on Kumon Maths and English Tutoring Parkside Nursery School

16 23

Entertainment A all the Way Discos Great Central Railway Teddy Bears Picnic

7 22

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

14 16 15 36 5 31

Home and Garden A 2 Z Cleaning Services Acacia Curtains and Blinds AMW Kitchens Bunny Appliance Warehouse Carpets of Choice Charnwood Maintenance Services Charnwood Tree Services Delta Aerials Doortronic – Remote Controlled Garage Doors Fab Plumbing Harrison Landscaping Lo Storage Solu ons KR Electrical Neil Philips Interiors Pamela Baildham Domes c Cleaning

10 31 35 33 13 37 37 6 9 16 26 8 6 26 17

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.

Richard Watson Decorator SJS Professional Carpet Cleaner Soar Valley Aerials The Oven Cleaning Company Whelband Windows

35 9 16 29 21

Professional Services AST Le ngs Ltd Baker & Co. Accountants CP Accountancy Ltd In Home Legal Services Moss Solicitors October House Life Assurance Rebecca Soanes Photography

34 30 8 35 27 14 23

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

23 7 18 31 29

Residen al Care The Abbeyfield

17

Sports and Leisure Aqua c Fitness Cyclops Cycles Physfit Gyms Pillings Lock Marina Ltd

15 7 6 40

Timber Merchants George Walker Ltd

11

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

25 14 10

Wedding Dresses and Accessories Happily Ever A er Brides

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

14 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

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 ®

The First Smile Was it wind, or was that a smile?

Enter thus a ny human’s first a empt.

Deliberate act or happy accident?

If you let yourself believe in both A smile will form on your face.

You can’t help it can you?

This smile shown to someone else Compels them to duplicate it.

Then, damn it some one else is infected.

Two, four, eight, sixteen.

Before you know it the whole cave is smiling.

Oh dear now they have gone out into the Garden, Made eye contact with Eve and you know the rest A li le laugh and eyes averted.

This warmth is now spreading unabated.

There is no stopping this now.

Thirty­two, sixty­four, one­two­eight.

This is bad and way too late.

What can be done?

Absolutely nothing.

Just got to let it ride.

From this, you cannot hide.

Can this random act of smiling, Reach the warriors door?

One thousand, two thousand, four.

Will Death guard let it through?

He can’t stop it.

The smiling majority have cast their vote.

Cynics among you please take note.

It will catch you when you least expect.

Go on, I dare you.

If the first ever Smile was a happy accident, It hasn’t done too bad for us has it?

Come and join me…………

S.P.J.

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 June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 7

A new on-line business to help with all your fancy dress requirements!

Free delivery!

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Outside Catering Services

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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 break­even 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

Our luxury storage rooms are surprisingly affordable at just a fraction of the cost of a standard loft conversion. Our luxury storage rooms can include the strengthening of loft joists, flooring, lighting, roof insulation, stud walls, roof windows and either plasterboard or skim finish.

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0116 367 9749

07515 526959 / 079615 76020

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

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Quiz – Mothers and Fathers 1. Which Disney film features a mother and father calledPerdita and Pongo?

2. The children’s radio show Listen With Mother always began with what ques on?

3. Which comes first in the calendar year?... Mother’s Day or Father’s Day? 4. Which member of the Guildford Four released the autobiography Proved Innocent, which was later adapted into the film In The Name Of The Father?

5. In Monty Python’s Life Of Brian, who played Brian’s mother, Mandy?

6. Heavenly Hiraani Tiger Lily was born in 1996. Name her famous mother and father.

7. Transla ng as “mother of the universe”, Chomolungma is the Tibetan name for what?

8. According to legend, who was King Arthur’s father?

9. Name the actor and actress who played Greg Focker’s mother and father in the film Meet The Fockers.

10. In 2007, Neil Diamond finally revealed that the inspira on for his song Sweet Caroline was a girl who was just 11 years old when he wrote it. Who was her famous father?

Answers on page 39

Whatever the enemy - email or call Stuart for

“Don’t struggle lifting your garage door, open it from the comfort of your car”

FREE ADVICE Before

After

• Domestic and Commercial on site Carpet Cleaning • Suites - Leather and Fabric • Carpet and Furniture Protector • Oriental Carpets and Rugs • On site 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

WE ALSO SUPPLY AND FIT NEW GARAGE DOORS

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 en­route.

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 pressure­washing company. Using industrial equipment, they’ll be able

to strip away the builtup 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 • •

Professional, friendly, fully trained & above all great value for money.

• • •

Carpet Cleaning Gutter and UPVC Cleaning Window Cleaning Patios & Driveways Cleaned Home Cleaning

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 June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 11

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Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 12

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 le­used 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 June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 13

Good choice of rugs always available in store

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 14

Need Life Assurance & Critical Illness Cover?

Get Local, FREE and Specialist Whole of Market Advice

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01509 807 330 / 0777248 5049

...and they lived

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

Contact Bea or Val

Tel: 01664 424086 / 01664 424137 07906286530 / 07752324522 Weekends & Evenings Email: info@happily-ever-after-brides.co.uk www.happily-ever-after-brides.co.uk

WIN! See page 11 for website

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.

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

For your chance to win the picnic bench in the photograph, which comes as a flat pack, just answer the following question: “What is the price of this rectangular picnic bench, including VAT, available from George Walker Limited of Syston?”

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 25th June 2013.

Terms and conditions apply. Editor’s decision is final.

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 15

General Knowledge Crossword

©puzzlepress.co.uk

AQUA FITNESS SESSIONS

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 Live­ac 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 39

Gareth Ga a Hudson MCFHP MAFHP

Fo oo Health Professional Foot Visiting Practice

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Contact Lindsay 07746 223197

01509 844461 Tel: Mobile: 07896 945156 Email: garethhudson82@live.co.uk

www.aquaticswimmingacademy.com

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

Page 15

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Plumbing or Heating Problem?

A local professional service for all your gas, plumbing and heating requirements Boiler breakdown and upgrade specialists Full range of work undertaken (free quotes) Installations • Breakdowns • Repairs • Service Fully insured • Qualified Engineers Part L • Part P • WRAS • City & Guilds Vented and Unvented heating systems Safety certificates/checks • Power flushing

24 HOUR EMERGENCY CALL OUT Contact Darryl now for obligation free assistance

info@fabplumbing.co.uk

www.fabplumbing.co.uk

0333 456 7080 07867 301862

Charnwood Hearing Aid Centre Ltd Lynne Leeming, MSc RHAD MSHAA

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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School stops for summer, learning doesn’t have to Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work throughout the summer to ensure your child is constantly learning and developing their ability.

Contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment.

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

Answers on page 39

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

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 17

New advert size Get this size of advert in full colour with free layout and design for only

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

Page 17

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 14:22 Page 18

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 thatched­roofed pubs in Leicestershire. A few old photographs can be found on the Sileby village website ­ www.sileby­ village.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

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.

THE FREE TRADE INN Page 18

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

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

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

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 19

Sileby Vikings Rugby Club do it again!

For the second year running they’ve topped the league to finish in first place From humble beginnings in 2006, playing on a borrowed ground in Aylestone, to ge ng their own ground on Pla s Lane, Cossington in 2010, the Vikings go from strength to strength...

Next season will see them travelling further afield with fresh challenges for the club. For the first me they

have entered the Na onal (Midlands) leagues, having been accepted into Midlands 5 East (North) division. This will be rugby on a new level and the club will need to step up a gear, training twice a week from now on.

No rest for the Vikings?

Their first fixture of the 2013/14 season will be in September but training will have commenced early in June to establish match fitness and to switch their “rugby brains” back on.

Not all work and no play… the club has an excellent social aspect.

During the summer they all s ll meet up as a group of friends to

enjoy social events such as the presenta on/awards evening and barbecues down at the ground ­ even if it’s raining!

The 7th annual charity truck pull takes place on Saturday 31st August this year; the supported charity is Hope against Cancer ­ see below.

Interested in Joining? Visit their website: www.silebyrfc.co.uk

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.

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 June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 20

Recipe

C Cheese, heese, B Bacon acon & O Onion nion P Pie ie Makes 8 Slices

Ready plus chilling R eady in 1½ hours, pl us chi lling Perfect for a simple lunch or for an early summer picnic this savoury pie has a really rich and buttery crisp pastry and a tasty smoked bacon and onion ďŹ lling.

It tastes just as delicious warm or cold. Look for packs of smoked bacon pieces near the bacon rashers in the supermarket or use avoursome Italian diced pancetta instead.

Pastry: P astry: • • • •

! *& #( 6).+ -,* '.,- + *)0 + #( " ) , & ! .-- + "#&& ( # • - ,* # 0 - +

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Tip: Tip: +/ ,#'*&2 0#-" + ," -)' -) , & ' 2 -"# %&2 ,&# #(! +#* /#( -)' -) , ( & 2 +#(! 0#-" 5( &2 ")** ,*+#(! )(#)(, ( 0 + ," ,#& & / , +#33& 0#-" &#--& )&#/ )#& ( , ,)( 0#-" + ,"&2 !+).( & % * ** +

Page 20

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

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 21

Manufacturers and Installers of PVC Windows, Doors and Conservatories Established 1991

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Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 22

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—?

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

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01509 632323

Book on line www.gcrailway.co.uk

5!

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 23

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?”

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

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 & 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.

£10.00 off woodland photo shoot throughout June 2013

Wide range of photographic services available

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

Rebecca Soanes Photography rebeccasoanes@gmail.com 01283 762023 / 07528 684291

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

Page 23

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We’ll always have Paris ­ and the Soar Valley

Phillip Mark McGough

I was in Paris recently ­ not, alas, on foreign assignment for Soar Valley Life, but on personal business which still gave me time one evening in late April for a walk through the Bois de Boulogne and which in turn gave me the idea for this article...

The Bois de Boulogne is a magical place; the remnants of an ancient oak forest but now a fine public park extensively resculpted by Napoleon III with an English garden, a race course, an aviary and a complex of greenhouses holding over a hundred thousand plants. There are grottos, meadows and little streams ­ a page torn from a fairy tale. And any number of birds both wild and ornamental; though the former are uniformly much shyer than their British counterparts. Here a robin will happily alight a few feet from a gardener as he turns the earth and snatch a worm or a leatherjacket from right under his spade. But the French robin­ one ceased his song at my approach and was gone into the canopy where the stars were already hanging like so much fruit­ is a far more discriminating animal and suffers not the presence of a clumsy Englishman at twilight.

Page 24

My second encounter was with a man called Jean who was camped by one of the park’s many lakes with a sketch book and a camera large enough to be an artillery piece. He had drawn a charcoal picture of the lake at nightfall, wild swans against the moon, all very earth and water and sky, so I complimented him on it and he introduced himself. As things turned out we talked for a quite a while: one of those chance conversations with a stranger which sometimes yield more than a lifetime of friendship at close quarters. Jean was an interesting man, ex­ armed forces (he’d seen action in some tiny but dirty war in Africa in the 1980s) and now a photographer and occasional contributor to natural history journals local and national. He explained that he would be staying in the park overnight; he enjoyed sleeping outside ­ even in public parks though he is by no means homeless ­ waking at dawn glittering with frost and hung with dew. He told me there is no time quite like it: his affinity being with the liminal creatures of dusk and dawn, photographing and writing about those secret times and places that cannot be dreamed into descriptive being, so subtle they can only be imagined by nature. I formed the impression Jean was a damaged man, damaged by war in particular, and that nature and writing about nature offered him both space and solace. I can’t really empathize ­ most of my battles have been fought on paper, usually headed “final demand” or “do not ignore”­ but I understand what it means to find an escape route from quotidian cares into the natural world, a world which appeals first and foremost (to me, anyway) because it’s not overly bothered about whether I – or we ­ exist or not.

I understand too the passion for writing about a place, a landscape, a scene or the twilight,

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

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

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 25

even if those things have had too much written about them already. The thing about nature is that by definition it provokes an urge in the viewer to communicate its magnificence and wonder: so that landscapes have in time become coated with thick layers of language.

Jean was aware of this. He told me that when he writes about a place he keeps it very short and looks for what he called “the authentic sunlight”, a striking phrase and one which I shall shamelessly originate as my own. I take his point here, too. The best nature writing may be small in scale and scope, but it has vast interiors ­ like entering a bungalow and finding oneself in a cathedral.

So much for Paris. I said goodbye to Jean and returned by the by to an England surreally convulsed by allegations of Rolf Harris’s sexual

truancies. Perhaps, I thought, this is what it’s like to live in a world where there is no Mrs Thatcher to magnetize our moral compass.

Somewhere, indeed right now, the Iron Lady begins her slow and ironic journey back to coal, back to nature ­ or was she cremated? It comes to the same thing, most things usually do, you know. At least I came back just as the weather seems to be on the turn. Spring has lit a match, and soon all the countryside will be alight. I even saw a hare the other day, for the first time ever, loping across a field near Sutton Bonington. He looked at me with his polished eyes, and I looked at him. One of those moments ­ all too rare, but all the more special for it when they arrive­ when all is well with the world...

Phillip Mark McGough

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

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Page 25

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 26

Design

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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 26

Adver se in Soar Valley Life from ÂŁ25 per month plus VAT

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 27

Moss Lend a Helping Hand with their New Pay as You Go Family Law Service Are you involved in a divorce, separa on or a dispute regarding your children, but are worried about the cost of instruc ng a solicitor to act for you? Do you feel that you could run your own case but would like to have a solicitor to ask for advice when things get complicated?

In today’s difficult economic climate, together with the changes which came into effect on 1st April 2013 severely restric ng the availability of legal aid for Divorce and family cases, there will be an increasing number of people who wish to separate or divorce but are worried about or can’t afford large legal bills.

However, the prospect of dealing with Divorce proceedings, a financial se lement or a dispute regarding children completely on their own is very daun ng.

Moss Pay as You Go Family Law Service is a scheme designed to help people represent themselves, providing advice and help as and when required.

Advice is given face to face and can include the dra ing of complex le ers, checking forms, considering the case and the pros and cons of taking

a par cular course of ac on. Each mee ng is paid as you go, so there are no big bills to pay at the end of the case. You do the rest of the work, keeping your paperwork organised and corresponding with the other party, their solicitor or the court, but with the peace of mind that there is someone who knows your case and can advise you if you need it. For example, if you receive a le er that worries you, make an appointment with us to discuss it. You control your own case and only seek the advice that you need.

If at any me you feel that your case is ge ng too much for you under this scheme, you can always transfer to being represented by us under our regular terms of business.

If you feel that Moss Pay as You Go Family Law Service would suit you or would like further informa on regarding matrimonial or family ma ers please contact, Rita Rathod r.rathod@moss­solicitors.co.uk or 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

Page 27

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 28

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 Black­a­Moor’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 re­join 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 28

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

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

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 29

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.

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David’s entry ‘The Stables ­ Seagrave’ was the first correct answer out of the hat to the ques on, ‘What is the own­brand name of the pickles and preserves sold in the shop at the White Horse Inn, Seagrave’

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

Page 29

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 30

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 June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 31

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

For appointments call or text:

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Physiotherapy & Acupuncture

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

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

Sunday Carvery

Pub Favourties - 2 for £10 Queen Victoria Griddle

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

Great British Queen Vic Carvery

Food Hygiene Rating 5

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

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

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

Page 31

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 32

The Best of All Worlds Bunny Appliance Warehouse has been here for 25 years selling the best ‘high­end’ 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 big­name appliances. Buy on­line 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 32

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 e­mail 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

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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

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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

Not Made Your Will Yet? Does this worry you?

“Your children may NOT inherit your home or your hard earned savings...

But the Government or others could!!”

Care Fees, Inheritance Tax, Huge Legal Fees etc.

Devastates thousands of families unnecessarily

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With the “Right” Will and advice you can help ensure the maximum possible goes to those you love!!!

WILLS-TRUST-PROBATE LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY For a Home Visit or a Brochure Call Your Local Consultants Mrs Chris Thomas, Mrs Pam Draycott or Mr Wayne Cooper

01509 507334 / 08450 568571

In-Home Legal Services Shepshed, Leics

Richard Watson Professional Painter and Decorator All aspects of decorating work carried out from internal to external

Quality service with a professional finish • Free Estimates • No VAT For a full personal service call

T: 01509 815753 M: 07880 754011

Sileby Based

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

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Spot Ten Differences Answers on page 39

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

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A new EU­wide 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 June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 37

01509 414 169

“The Expert One Stop Shop for all your planned and emergency home, garden and property maintenance.”

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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

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

Nottingham Ghost Walk This spooky trail leads you around the older parts of the city, near the castle and includes lots of fascinating ghost stories.

It includes not just where the ghosts haunt, but also why and all the different types of ghosts that exist. The walk features history, gory executions, a graveyard, and maybe even the occasional real ghostly visitor.

Starts at the Salutation Inn, Maid Marian Way, Nottingham NG1 6AJ. Dates: Saturday 22nd June, Sat 29th June, Sat 6th July and Sat 13th July 2013 Contact: www.ghost­walks.co.uk Rawlins Art Exhibition and Open Day Rawlins Community College in Quorn will be celebrating the talents and achievements of its adult students with an art exhibition and open day. The event will feature opportunities for both adults and children to try some of the many activities that the programme offers, including art, sports, cooking and cake decorating for children and yoga, aerobics and Japanese for adults.

Open from 10am – 4pm with free entry to the Art Exhibition. Contact: 01509 622827 www.rawlinscollege.org.uk Dates: Saturday 22nd June 2013 “Let Me Tell You a Story” The Flower Festival is based on characters and events in the Bible, and has stunning flower displays from members and friends of Loughborough Baptist Church. The event also includes music from various musicians, tasty refreshments and moments of quiet reflection throughout the day, with the Saturday evening concert starting at 7.00pm. Free entry with donations welcome, all profits are donated to LOROS, held at Loughborough Baptist Church, Baxter Gate, Loughborough, LE11 1TG. Dates: Friday 28th June 10am­ 5.30pm, Saturday 29th June 10am until the concert finish (approximately 8.00pm), Sunday 30th June Morning Service at 10.45am then 2.30pm­6pm Evening Service 6pm­7pm and Monday 1st July 11.30am­2pm “Father Used to Say” “Father Used to Say” is a one man show, written and performed by singer songwriter, actor and writer Andrew ‘Skatz’ Scattergood. It’s a story of how the past can hold us back, how magic is made and how parents can drive us bonkers, with heart­warming songs and characters. “Father Used to Say” is Skatz’ personal swansong to the people of Leicester, as he finally waves goodbye and moves abroad.

Tickets are £6.50 in advance or £7.50 at the door.

Dates: Wednesday 3rd July 1pm­3pm, Thursday 4th July 7.30pm­9.30pm and Friday 5th July 7.30pm­9.30pm, held at Embrace Arts at Richard Attenborough Centre, Lancaster Road, Leicester, LE1 7HA Contact: 0844 884 2920 www.skiddle.com The Great Rempstone Steam & Country Show Held in the countryside between Leicestershire and Nottingham, this show has working steam engines, vintage vehicles, traditional crafts, fairground, children’s entertainment, wildlife and conservation, trader’s market and hundreds of exhibits. Also includes a licensed bar and wide variety of food vendors as well as free parking and weekend caravan booking. Open 10.00am – 5.30pm.

Admission: Adults £7 Children £4 continued ...

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Dates: Saturday 13th July and Sunday 14th July 2013 at Turn Post Farm, East Road, Wymeswold, Leicestershire LE12 6ST Contact: 07598245736 rempstonesteam@gmail.org www.rempstonesteam.org Festival of British Archaeology 2013 at the Jewry Wall Museum The annual celebration of local and national archaeology hosted at Jewry Wall Museum. This action packed fortnight includes talks, displays, re­enactment, craft activities and free “Grand Tours” of the Roman baths. The festival will take place from 11.30am ­3.30pm with the tour of the Roman baths taking place throughout at 12pm.

Dates: Sunday 14th July to Saturday 27th July 2013 Contact: 0116 225 4971 Festival of British Archaeology 2013: Treasures of the Museum Stuart Bailey of the Friends of Jewry Wall Museum leads a guided tour of his favourite treasures. Free admission for all ages and no booking necessary. Meet at the Museum entrance on St. Nicholas Circle, Leicester, LE1 4LB with the tour taking place from 2.00pm – 2.40pm.

Dates: Sunday 14th July, Monday 15th July, Wednesday 17th July, Sunday 21st July, Monday 22nd July and Wednesday 24th July 2013 Contact: 0116 225 4971 Donington Park Antiques Market Located just off the M1 at Donington Park, the market includes everything from classic antiques, collectibles, jewellery and furniture, shabby chic and decorative furnishings. The venue allows stallholders generous pitch sizes away from the elements of the typical British weather.

Trade buyers 7.30am­9am, public buyers 9am­1pm, tickets available on the door.

Dates: Monday 22nd July 2013 Contact: www.asfairs.com Peppa Pig and George at Twinlakes Family Theme Park Join Peppa Pig and George at Twinlakes Park on Tuesday 30th July 2013. See them from 11am­11.30am, 12pm­ 12.30pm, 2.10pm­2.40pm, 3.20pm­3.50pm and 4.40pm­ 4.50pm. All rides and attractions will be open as normal.

This is a free event included in the admission charge to Twinlakes Family Theme Park.

Twinlakes Family Theme Park, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 4SB Contact: www.twinlakespark.co.uk The East Midlands Game & Country Fair The fair has three entertaining arenas with displays, competitions and demonstrations such as falconry, chefs on stage and working gundogs. Also enjoy sumptuous food and drink from local and regional producers as well as arts and crafts, clay shooting, archery and endless shopping opportunities. Open 10.00am – 6.00pm.

Admission: Adults £11.00 Seniors £10.00 Children £4.00 Under 5s FREE Dates: Saturday 3rd August and Sunday 4th August 2013 at Prestwold Hall in Leicestershire, LE12 5SQ Contact: www.livingheritagecountryshows.co.uk

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

Soar Valley June/July 2013 _Layout 1 30/05/2013 12:13 Page 39

Solu ons Mothers and Fathers Quiz Answers

6. Guitar is missing one bu on

1.

101 Dalma ans (they are the puppies' parents) 2. Are you si ng comfortably?

3. Mother's Day (March or April v June) 4. Gerry Conlon 5. Terry Jones 6. Paula Yates and Michael Hutchence 7. Mount Everest 8. Uther Pendragon 9. Dus n Hoffman and Barbra Streisand 10. John F. Kennedy

General Knowledge Crossword

7. Heart on the guitar is reversed 8. Curled string missing from guitar 9. Boyís top is missing dots from pa ern 10. Boy’s hair is different Sudoku Solu on

Across: 1 Calais, 7 Charades, 8 Rustle, 10 Cheese, 11 Sisal, 13 Ikebana, 16 Bouncer, 17 Oasis, 20 Safari, 22 Peseta, 24 Princess, 25 Morris.

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.

Spot Ten Differences 1. Girl has no earring 2. Girl is missing her belly bu on!

3. Girl has one extra circle on her belt 4. Girlís trousers are ripped at the knees 5. Guitar is a different colour

BUILDERS MERCHANTS

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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.

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