The Vine, Leicestershire August 2015

THE VINE, LEICESTERSHIRE

VINE The

August / September 2015

Leicestershire

YOUR FREE BIMONTHLY LOCAL MAGAZINE

WWW.THEVINELEICESTERSHIRE.CO.UK AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015 | ISSUE 15

THE NATIONAL FOREST WOOD FAIR FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD SUMMER ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk WHAT’S ON | CHARITY NEWS | CLUBS | PUZZLES | COMMUNITY 1

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Welcome... ...to The Vine!

Aug / Sept ‘15 edition

Pet Fest!...............................13

National Forest Wood Fair...19

Hello Dear Readers and welcome to our summer edition of The Vine Magazine.

This month you’ll find pages full of ‘what’s going on’ events as well as ‘things to do’ around Swannington and Griffydam, Whitwick and Shepshed, Ashby and Coalville plus, we’ve also a super “Food” Feature, just to tempt you that little bit more.

One for the calendar to note down straight away is one of the biggest and most well-known of this month’s events and that’s the Wood Fair on the (31st) August Bank Holiday Monday - a great day out for all the family with lots to see and do, turn to page 19 for further details.

Keeping with all things ‘outdoorsy’ how about attending Thringstone Music Festival, the National Forest Folk Club and the Mountsorrel Revival as well as many other events: grab a cup of tea or coffee and browse through our pages - you should plan in what you’re going to make time for as these are definitely ones not to miss.

Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and Chile - all free-flowing, wellregarded wine producing countries, well now add Rothley in Leicestershire to that list as our Food Feature, starting on page 30, marks out an interesting piece on a local vineyard! Furthermore, if you like to know where your food (as well as your drink) comes from - important to many of us - make sure Farmer’s Markets and Farm Shops top your ‘places to shop’ list.

To conclude,. we have a number of charity news stories to bring you: LOROS’s 2015 Accumulator Challenge has raised over £30,000 pounds this year which is brilliant news and an unusual fundraiser is taking place in early August, a Fun Run on mobility scooters, yup, you heard that right - full details on page 16.

We hope that you have fun with whatever you decide to do this summer - best regards,

The Editor and Team CONTACT US: editor@thevineleicestershire.co.uk | 01530 249048 www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

Food Glorious Food...........30

To submit editorial please email: editor@thevineleicestershire.co.uk ADVERTISING: For anyone wishing to advertise in The Vine, Leicestershire please contact the editor for pricing, deadlines and offers!

www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

Our Disclaimer: Reasonable care is taken to ensure that The Vine, Leicestershire and website are as accurate as possible, as of the time of publication, but no liability can be taken by The Vine, Leicestershire for any errors, opinions or omissions contained herein.9

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Local Charity News Cats Protection offers £10 neutering for cats in Leicestershire The charity Cats Protection is offering to neuter cats in the LE11, LE12 and LE67 postcodes for just £10 in a drive to reduce the number of unwanted kittens. Cats Protection reports that the number of unwanted cats has hit an all-time high.

“Without neutering, the UK’s cat population quickly gets out of control and each summer we are overwhelmed with kittens in need of homes so it is vital people ensure their cats are neutered before they start to breed to prevent unwanted litters,” explains Yvette Tomlinson, Neutering Project Assistant at Cats Protection.

Owners on benefits or low incomes will be able to have their cat snipped or spayed at the discount rate at one of over 60 participating vets in the region. Owners will need to take proof of benefits or low income to the vet to be entitled to the subsidised cost of £10.

Kittens from four months old as well as male and female adult cats can all be neutered for £10, with the rest of the cost being met by Cats Protection.

Myths around neutering: • Cats need to have a litter before they are spayed - There is absolutely no evidence to support this and neutering before puberty dramatically reduces the risk of mammary cancer.

• Neutering will make my cat fat - Neutered cats need less food after surgery, so you will need to reduce their daily food intake but neutering in itself doesn’t make cats fat.

• You don’t need to neuter if your cats are related - Cats will readily breed with relatives including siblings, parents and offspring.

Benefits of neutering: • It stops unwanted kittens (one unneutered female cat can be responsible for 20,000 descendants in just five years) • Your cat is less likely to fight, reducing the risk of catching life-threatening diseases • Neutered cats are less likely to wander and get run over (most cats killed on the road are unneutered toms) • Neutered male cats are less likely to display territorial behaviour such as spraying • It will prevent them from getting certain cancers.

• To care for a litter of kittens is time consuming and costly and it can be difficult to find new homes for them.

Please call Cats Protection’s Helpline on 03000 12 12 12 or visit the charity’s website at www.cats.org.uk/whatwe-do/neutering/current-neutering-campaigns for details of your nearest participating veterinary practice.

LOROS Accumulator Challenge 2015 Eighteen teams across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland have spent the past three months competing to see how their teams can each “grow” £50. It has been a very exciting, competitive and moving time as teams left their comfort zones and did amazing things in order to support their local hospice.

LOROS is extremely pleased to announce that together, the teams have raised a total of £30,698 which could cover a cost of a LOROS nurse looking after our inpatients for almost a year.

The “Most Money” was raised by the British Gas team led by Tom Reichert and their key fundraiser Daniel Chaplin.

They raffled their initial £50 and made their first £1000 in a just few days. That was just a beginning.

Daniel Chaplin said: “I set my personal target high at £5,000 because my wife’s Mum passed away in LOROS in 1994 at the age of 44. In total our team have raised £5,404.75. I am so happy, not only did I achieve my personal target, but I also know this amount of money will make a great difference to this amazing charity.”

Dedicated LOROS supporter’s Palmers Garden Centre came place second for the second year running smashing last year’s target and raising £5,010 for LOROS. This year’s Accumulator Challenge also welcomed young participants from Madani Schools Federation, 33rd/65th Leicester Scout Troop and Lime Tree Day Nursery. The youngest participants from the Nursery were very innovative producing special, personalised LOROS keyrings which sold out, raising more than £1000 for LOROS.

More details can be found on the LOROS website: www.loros.co.uk 12

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Charity Gala: PET FEST!

Animal Rehoming Charity To Celebrate 40th Anniversary Woodside Animal Centre, the Leicestershire Branch of the RSPCA, are holding their annual Gala Day on Sunday 9th August in celebration of their 40th anniversary.

This year’s Gala Day is aptly named “Pet Fest” and promises a host of fun for all old Ollie, 1 year the family. Carnival games, pet care demonstrations, craft stalls, bouncy castles rrier hire Bull Te and a chance to meet Woodside’s animal experts are just a few of the activities Staffords ican Bulldog / Amer on offer. ve this Will you gi a happy y The event will be held at Woodside Animal Centre on Scudamore Road in bo deserving Leicester from 11am to 4pm, with entry on the gate costing £2 (free entry for future?

Sam, 10 year children under 16 accompanied by adults). s old Border Collie Food and drink will be available and this year, Gala-goers will even be able to Can you give enjoy a free drink with every hot food purchase. this affectionate and Woodside rehomes thousands of animals every year: While it is affiliated to intelligent la d a fresh the National RSPCA, as a local Branch it is entirely responsible for raising its start? funds from within the Leicestershire area and receives no money from the government or Lottery. It therefore depends on donations from our supporters and fundraising events like our annual Gala Day in order to continue its work.

Woodside’s Branch and Charity Development Manager Gary Wheway said: “There is so much on offer this year to ensure a great day out for a great ths old Tiny, 6 mon Sam, 10 years old (approx.) cause. We’re excited to be celebrating 40 years of promoting animal ound X Irish Wolfh welfare here on our site at Woodside with our most ambitious Gala yet. If ace Border - fantastic & loving t the spCollie Have you go you love animals as we do, or just want a lovely day out, don’t hesitate to is th r boy fo and the love come and join us.” aracter? adorable ch Also on offer will be the Barrie Stephen pop-up salon where Gala guests can get their hair styled for a donation, dogs can enter the annual dog show and staff will be on hand to give pet grooming demonstrations for all animals, small and large.

For more information please visit the website below or visit Woodside Animal Centre on Facebook to keep up to date with all the Pet Fest information.

www.rspcaleicester.org.uk

ALL CHANGE AT SOAR VALLEY ROTARY At the Club’s annual changeover dinner at the Birstall Golf Club on Monday 29th June, Rotary Club of the Soar Valley President Alison Porter handed over the chain of office to Richard Hilliar. At the joint event with the Inner Wheel Club, Sheila Bickley handed over the reins to Incoming Inner Wheel President Val Burdett.

Paul Harris awards As one of her last duties, Alison Porter, the Rotary Club’s first lady President, announced three Paul Harris awards to three members - Rtns Alastair Wood and Graham Martin (who was unable to be present) receive a Paul Harris Fellowship, whilst Rtn Alan Meredith received a Sapphire pin to his award. The Paul Harris Fellowship, established in 1957 is presented to Rotarians and others in recognition of outstanding service to the community and the Club.

Soar Valley Rotary Club meets each Monday evening at the Red Lion, Rothley and the Inner Wheel meets monthly at Quorn Grange. Both clubs enjoy a meal followed by interesting visiting speakers together with social events community service and fund raising activities and would welcome approaches from anyone interested in finding out more.

Alan Meredith, Rotary Club of the Soar Valley

Let Them Eat Cake.... And Beat Cancer In The Process!

Come and have Coffee/Tea and Cakes in Swannington Village Hall Main Street, Swannington LE67 8QL from 10.00am to 12.30pm on Saturday 5th September.

There will be homemade cakes and preserves for sale, craft stalls and to help ease those daily stresses you can have a Relaxing Muscle Release. All proceeds will go to Cancer Research UK. Please come along and support this worthy event. www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

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Fun Run With A Difference... And Then The Main Event!

Tony Thorpe is organising a Fun Run with a difference - he’s using Mobility Scooters! Tony, who is 81 years young and lives in Braunstone Town, would like other people with electric scooters to join him between 2 and 5pm on Saturday August 8th 2015 for a Fun Run around Braunstone Park. We’ll be based at the car park near the Blessed Sacrament Church on Gooding Avenue, Leicester which is just off the Hinckley Road at LE3 1JS. There will be prizes for the person who makes the most runs around the park (on one battery charge), prizes for the fastest times around the park and a prize for the best decorated scooter. It’s hoped that people joining in will raise funds from their family and friends and then donate some of that money to Tony’s chosen cause, local Dementia /Alzheimer groups. Tony is concerned that local groups for people with Dementia / Alzheimers are closing because they’re losing their funding.

Then at 4am on Sunday 9th August, Tony is setting off around the park on a 24 hour or 100 Miles Sponsored Ride. He will be using a relay of four scooters, again raising money for the charities. Four times around the park is ten miles so that’s 40 trips! Why not bring a family picnic and cheer Tony along? Or join in and have one or two circuits of the park with him?

If you or one of your relatives would like to join in on the fun ride or help to marshall the event, or to donate, please ask them to get in touch with Tony on 0116 289 9327 or Lin on 0116 299 2192.

Tony also has a JustGiving page: https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/Tony-Thorpe Tony is slightly worried that no-one will turn up to the Fun Run on Saturday – let’s make this amazing man very happy by turning up in droves - We’d love to see you there!

WHO IS TONY THORPE? Tony is an amazing man who buys and renovates mobility aids (including stair lifts,

wheelchairs and scooters and then lets people in need have them – at no charge.) Sometimes Social Services can take months to assess people and then further waits are inevitable… People ring Tony and if he has the necessary equipment, he delivers and, if necessary, installs within a week. People coming out of hospital may only need a piece of equipment for a few weeks but perhaps can’t afford to buy it – again Tony helps out.

Everything comes from his own pocket and now many of our local groups for people with Dementia/Alzheimer’s are closing because they’re losing their funding so he’s decided to do something about it!

Racking Up The Lengths For Cancer Research In June, Splish Splash Swim Ltd swam over 93 miles, raising £835 for Cancer Research.

Two years ago, a valued team member and excellent swimming teacher at Splish Splash Swim sadly passed away; Splish Splash Swim holds an annual charity event in memory of her to raise money for Cancer Research. This year, pupils, friends, family and teachers came from all over Leicestershire and Staffordshire to raise money for the worthy cause.

116 people came to swim over the week to support cancer sufferers. Swimmers ranged between 3 years old to 63 years old, all doing their bit.

Each of Splish Splash Swim’s ‘Swim 4 Charity’ events were packed full of determination, hard work, fun, laughter and family team work. One parent, Sandy Merison, commented that the event was ‘Absolutely brilliant. Well done to all. Be very proud’. Splish Splash Swim wanted to say an extra special thankyou to those children that swam 5km in aid of cancer: George House, Zach Thomas, Grace Swingler, Thomas Daft and the youngest 5km finisher at just 8 years old, Poppy Mathias!

Jo Saines, Swimming Co-ordinator for Splish Splash Swim Ltd, commented that ‘The community is at the heart of Splish Splash Swim; over the years, we have seen so many suffer with cancer, we thought that it is about time that we did something about it! Giving back to the community by raising money for Cancer Research is an absolutely integral part of the swim school’.

Find out more about Splish Splash Swin by visiting their website: www.splishsplashswim.co.uk.

Coffee Morning For Cancer Research Coffee morning and Sale to be held on Saturday 5th September at The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley from 10am to 12 noon in aid of Cancer Research UK. Stalls to include Cakes, Books, Bric a Brac, Gifts, Jewellery, Plants, Toys, Phoenix Cards, Tombola and Raffle. Entrance is £1 to include unlimited tea/coffee and biscuits.

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Moira Furnace Folk Festival 2015 Friday 14th, Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th August The Moira Furnace Folk Festival at the heart of the National Forest takes place at Moira Furnace located on the Leicestershire / Derbyshire border, one of the most picturesque settings in the industrial midlands.

The Festival features some well known and talented main acts, plus local and national, up and coming artists. A programme of workshops has been arranged and will be detailed on the website together with details of which days artists are performing, in advance of the Festival.

Most events take place on the green site of Moira Furnace, with a Ceilidh on Saturday Night at the Miners Welfare, just a few hundred metres from the main site.

Singarounds and sessions also take place at local pubs, some 10 minutes walk from the Festival main site.

There are concerts all weekend in two marquees, each with a raised stage and PA system, plus singarounds in the Loft of the Furnace building.

A wide variety of dancing including Morris, Appalachian Step and Rapper dancing can be seen, as well as Civil War Re-enactments with the Society of the Open Rope.

Local camping is available and free car parking close at hand. There is fun entertainment and activities for children.

Festival goers will find a choice of trade and food stalls, plus a Real Ale bar.

Many tourist attractions are close to Moira including Conkers, the National Forest centre for recreation and hands on eco science as well as numerous country walks - dogs are allowed on site.

There is a story walk through the woodland adjacent to the Festival site and canal rides on the picturesque Ashby Canal.

A Folk service involving several of the Festival artists will be held on Sunday morning at a local church.

www.moirafurnacefolkfestival.co.uk

Grace Dieu Writers’ Circle

Grace Dieu Writing Circle runs a number of activities for its members. At the core of these are our regular meetings, which are held on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month between 7.30. pm and 9.30. pm at the Coalville and District Constitutional Club, High Street Coalville, LE67 3EE. Prior to the start of each year, the Steering Committee, having taken advice and suggestions from members, will produce a programme for the coming year. Each meeting will either be a manuscript evening or an assignment evening. At a manuscript evening members will share their current writing projects with the rest of the group, which they can also do during an assignment evening or choose to complete a set writing challenge from the programme. Members can request a critique of their work from the other members present.

However, there is no obligation to read work to the rest of the group.

We always welcome new members, so if you are interested in coming along and taste what we have to offer, please contact: Tony Gutteridge, Treasurer/Competition Organiser Tel: 01455-273591 | Email: tonygutteridge@live.com or use the contact form on the website: www.gracedieuwriterscircle.co.uk

Upcoming meetings: Thursday 13th August: Manuscript night - Bring something along, a short story or poem that you would like to get some group feedback on.

Thursday 27th August: Toys - Please bring along something on the theme of toys or anything else you’re working on.

Thursday 10th September: Manuscript night - Bring something along, a short story or poem that you would like to get some group feedback on.

Thursday 24th September: Travel - write a short piece of fiction, a poem or a factual travel piece or as always bring along something you are working on. www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

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NATIONAL FOREST WOOD FAIR A GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT IN A BEAUTIFUL SETTING! Bank Holiday Monday, 31st August 2015 Calling everyone who loves trees, timber and beautiful things made out of wood! Make your way to the National Forest Wood Fair on Bank Holiday Monday 31 August, and enjoy a great day out in the stunning setting of Beacon Hill Country Park.

Established as one of the top days out in the region’s country calendar, the National Forest Wood Fair regularly attracts over 100 exhibitors and demonstrators, and crowds of over 5,000 from all over the country.

The whole family will enjoy the day: children can have a go at eco art, pyrography and coracle paddling, scale the climbing wall or listen to stories and songs from the Wild Man of the Woods. Anyone aged eight to 80 can try tree climbing and shimmy up into the canopy of an ancient oak tree using ropes and harness. You’ll be cheering on the lumberjacks as they swing their axes and sweat over the crosscut saw, and everyone loves to see the skills of the horse logging team and the deft work of the chainsaw carvers, sawdust flying and throttles rumbling.

Woodworkers and hobby craftspeople can buy planks and blocks of timber, browse second-hand tool stalls and see expert demonstrations by wood turners and craftspeople. Top Windsor chair-maker Peter Wood will be on hand to talk about his work and demonstrate his world championship pole lathe turning skills, and master craftsman Mike Painter will present a wood carving masterclass. Mike has worked on Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and the palace of Westminster and talks with insight and passion about his craft.

The Forest Food Festival is packed with delicious locally-sourced food and drink, and once replenished, make sure you find the time to browse the tempting array of beautiful things made out of wood – perfect for gifts or treats for home and garden.

Richard Drakeley, Tourism Officer for the National Forest Company, said: “The National Forest Wood Fair is a great day out and is our way of showcasing the Forest story – from tiny sapling to tree to timber. The Wood Fair celebrates the people who work in and look after the Forest, and all the things that people can do here, whether its wildlife watching and natural play, or walking and cycling or photography, browsing craft shops and heritage centres, or simply enjoying the great outdoors.”

The National Forest Wood Fair is organised by the National Forest Company in partnership with Leicestershire County Council and takes place at Beacon Hill Country Park, just five minutes from the M1, junctions 22/23, on Bank Holiday Monday 31 August, 9 am – 5pm.

Tickets cost £9.00 (adult); £6 (concession) £25 (family: two adults and three concessionary tickets, which can be child or senior citizen). Book online in advance (before midday Friday 28 August) and save 20% on the gate prices: where else can you get a family bank holiday day out for £20?

For more information and to book online see www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk

Bradgate Rotary News June was very much a month for both reflection and looking forward as we enjoyed a lovely meal followed by our AGM at the Stamford Arms. It made us realise how far we had come in the year since we were formed and gave us fresh enthusiasm for the year ahead! We played a part in the Groby Street Fair, running a tombola on the frontage of the Stamford Arms; even the rain didn’t dampen our spirits. It seems we are destined to be at fairs when the weather is against us as it was similar weather when we manned a stall in Bradgate Park at the end of May. However, we did manage to raise more money for our chosen charities by doing so.

On June 23, 18 of us headed over to Tastes restaurant at Leicester College as our social event for June. We enjoyed a fabulous meal cooked by the budding chefs and excellent service from the waiting staff. Indeed choosing what to eat was no mean feat as everything looked and sounded so delicious!

We hold breakfast meetings at the Stamford Arms, so if you are interested in joining our friendly and welcoming group please have a word with our President, Brian Rigby, at the Stamford Arms, Groby. www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

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NATIONAL TRUST LEICESTER ASSOCIATION In 1965 the National Trust launched the Enterprise Neptune Campaign to raise £2m towards acquiring unspoiled sections of the coastline in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Of course the Trust already owned some coastal property. In fact the first property ever owned by the Trust was Dinas Oleu, 4 acres of rocky hillside above Barmouth overlooking Cardigan Bay, which was given to the Trust early in 1895. They also owned Blakeney Point in Norfolk, given in 1912 and the Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland, presented in 1962.

Prior to launching the campaign the National Trust had identified 900 miles of coastline of outstanding natural beauty that was worthy of preservation. The campaign was a great success and is still running today, 50 years later. Over that period it has raised £65m and the Trust now looks after 775 miles of coast.

The first purchase following the launch of the campaign was Whitford Burrows, a 3 mile stretch of sand dunes on the north west shores of the Gower Peninsula, which is now a National Nature Reserve.

The Trust also owns 2,500 acres of land at the Lizard in Cornwall which have been fully restored by burying overhead cables, removing derelict buildings and restoring the landscape. Other areas in the Trusts care include the Farne Islands, South Milton Sands in Devon, The White Cliffs of Dover and the Penwith estate in Cornwall where the recent TV drama Poldark was filmed.

This year the National Trust is re-launching the appeal under the revised title of the NT “Coast Campaign” with the increased aim of protecting and restoring our beautiful coast, conserving and enhancing the rich heritage and wildlife on our shores and increasing public use of the coastline.

So when you next leave landlocked Leicestershire for our beautiful seaside you may well be enjoying National Trust land and hopefully may wish to support our campaign.

For details of the National Trust Leicester Association and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 2229133.

AlanTyler, Publicity Officer

ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH CASTLE - A Castle With A Dramatic History A visit to Ashby Castle makes a great local family day out!

The property began as a manor house in the 12th century and reached castle status in the 15th century.

Go along and find out about the castle’s colourful history with the lively audio tour. Hear how Edward IV’s Chamberlain Lord Hastings added the chapel and the impressive keep-like Hastings Tower – a castle within a castle. Visitors can still climb the tower today despite it suffering massive damage during the Civil War. There are great views from the top! Then make sure you discover the underground passage from the kitchen to the tower, probably created during this war, which can still be explored today.

Prices: English Heritage Member: FREE, Adult: £5.30, Child (5-15): £3.20, Concession: £4.80, Family (2 adults, 3 children): £13.80 The Castle is open Wednesday - Sunday, 10am - 6pm and on the Summer Bank Holiday 31st August - 10am - 6pm.

SPECIAL EVENT: ‘MEDIEVAL FIGHTING KNIGHTS’ Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th August 2015, 11am - 5pm.

Marvel at our noble knights as they take on the ultimate Medieval tournament. Swords will be wielded and helmets battered - who will reign supreme and become champion?

Be inspired and become knights for the day, hone your skills for the battlefield and hear tantalising tales of chivalrous battles and fearsome quests.

Sharpen your swords for a day out to remember!

For more info visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/ashby-de-la-zouch-castle/ 22

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CHARNWOOD MUSIC FOR ALL - ORGAN CONCERTS Our visiting organist on July 8th was Ryan Edwards from Mansfield. Ryan has visited Bardon in the past but this was the first time that I had heard (and watched) him. He has a very different ‘style’ from some of our visiting organists and, although it is usual to concentrate on hands and keyboard, it was his flying, tapping feet and constantly moving legs working the pedals which attracted most attention.

Whilst playing ’The Light Cavalry’ overture, he showcased the very wide orchestral range of this small organ, and, later, Ryan copied his ‘mentor’ Nigel Ogden who had proved that it was possible, and extremely acceptable, to set up a church organ sound on a theatre organ. Ryan played Gershwin, a James Last classic, and Glenn Miller, whilst constantly demonstrating the organ’s ability to cover percussion, brass, strings, panpipes and much more. At times there was an interesting ‘jazzy edge’ to his playing and presentation, and the audience seemed to appreciate such a different approach.

Ryan’s background seemed reminiscent of many of our visiting organists: his granddad was a local organist; Ryan fell in love with the organ when he was eight years old; he became a junior member of Staveley Organ Society and he is currently a peripatetic teacher of key-board and piano to children in Derbyshire’s schools. He admits that the piano is now his main interest and he enjoys playing modern jazz. His rendition of ‘Maple Leaf Rag’ with its honky-tonk sound and Scott Joplin touch was fantastic.

A host of favourite tunes followed, all accompanied by Ryan’s characteristic foot tapping and pedal movements: ‘Portsmouth’, ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’, music from ‘The Jungle Book’, the dance music from ‘Cats’, Elgar’s ‘Nimrod’, Mike Oldfield’s music from his Tube of Bells and Tattoo albums; ‘Lord of the Dance’, ‘Gypsy’ and many others.

If you haven’t tried these concerts, you are missing a treat. There are few places in England where you will have the opportunity to hear so many of the world’s top organists in this way. There is music for all ages; people are friendly; there is a bar and tea and coffee is available. The Organ Concerts are held monthly in the function suite of THE CHARNWOOD ARMS at Bardon. Tickets cost £6.50 on the door; and reasonably-priced pre-concert meals are available in the adjacent restaurant.

Future visiting organists include: August 5th: Chris Powell | September 16th: TBC | October 14th: Liz Harrison | November 18th: Andrew Nix For further information contact Chris Powell 01530 274270.

THE MONDAY CLUB, ANSTEY, CROPSTON, THURCASTON AND ROTHLEY “Here we are again, Happy as can be – All good friends and jolly good company” This little ditty just about sums up the happy atmosphere enjoyed during the annual Strawberry Cream Tea organised by our Deputy Leader, Mrs. Sue Wakerley, for the Club Members and friends at “The Bluebell Inn” Rothley on the 13th July 2015.

We were plied with more than generous helpings of Strawberries, Double Cream, Strawberry Jam, Butter and newly baked fruited Scones, not to mention the vast amount of tea and coffee supplied. The service from the Waitresses was exemplary, which more than added to the happy occasion; we shall look forward to repeating the event again next year.

Our next meeting will take place on the 10th August, in the room at the rear of The Cropston Evangelical Chapel, Station Road, Cropston, at 2.15pm when Mrs. Claire Orbell will return to talk us through “Why not try something different!”

Part 2. If you have been considering coming along to the Club, you will be most welcome and this includes husbands and partners. If you require any further information, please ring me on 0116 2363467. The answer phone is always switched on and I will return your call A.S.A.P.

Ann Farndon www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

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Law experts in cheap wills warning Cheap wills not fit for purpose are causing chaos and the public need to be made aware, warns a leading regional law firm.

Frankie Harwood (left) of Quality Solicitors Mander Cruickshank said the case of Tinuola Aregbesola, which has received national media attention, needs to be a lesson for us all.

Ms Aregbesola is seeking hundreds of thousands of pounds compensation from Barclays, claiming the bank’s £90 will-writing service meant her losing a stake in a valuable London property.

Ms Harwood, whose firm are based in Coalville and Hinckley said that the case is not isolated.

“It is infuriating that poorly drafted or ineffective DIY wills are to blame for a prolonged probate ordeal for around 38,000 families a year,” she said.

“Wills have become increasingly complex due to modern family structures and have to be written in a way where there is no ambiguity, and this can only be done by a legal professional who has taken time to find out exactly what a person wants their will to detail,” she said.

In the case of Ms Aregbesola court documents detail how in 2007 her father, instructed half of the home to be given to her on his death.

However, the property was owned jointly by Mr Aregbesola and his wife who was not Tinuola’s mother. Due to the joint ownership, on Mr Aregbesola’s death in 2014, the property went wholly to his wife in contravention of the wishes spelt out in the will.

It is claimed Barclays neglected to severe the joint tenancy agreement. Doing this would have enabled half of the property’s value to pass as instructed to his daughter.

Ms Harwood said she has seen mistakes in cheap wills happen many times.

“It is vital to get professional help and make sure a will is up to date,” she said.

“Everyone knows how important a will is, so it is vital they make one and ensure that it is revisited periodically, so they know that it is kept up to date,” she added.

“The heartache that we have seen because of poorly drafted wills, no wills or wills that have not been kept up to date is huge. Families can be ripped apart and all because of something that could so easily have been remedied.”

If you wish to know more about wills, call Quality Solicitors Mander Cruickshank on 01530 510666.

GRACE DIEU GIRLS VICTORIOUS IN 3M COMPETITION 3M challenged local primary and secondary school pupils to create their own healthy drink or snack in this year’s Super Food category of the Young Innovators Challenge. The Super Food category is one of five challenges from 3M, each involving a different area of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) curriculum.

Entrants had to consider the scientific processes involved in the production of their snack or drink – such as fermentation or emulsification – as well as the nutritional content and the consumer market to target.

They had to invent a product name and packaging, the programme is designed to develop creativity, team working, confidence and presentation skills.

The ‘Cheese Jacks’ team from Grace Dieu, mentored by Mrs McDermott won the Super Food category with their tasty and healthy snack.

They were the youngest finalists and against some tough competition. Nicky Morgan, Education Minister, presented each of them with their prize, a £50 Amazon voucher each and £1000 for the School to spend on Home Economics equipment. The girls were all thrilled with their achievement at the prestigious awards ceremony.

Pictured left to right: Katie, Jemima, Mrs McDermott, Victoria, Nicky Morgan, Eve and Poppy.

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August / September 2015 - Issue 15

Food Glorious Food

The Great British Summer is well underway and what better way to enjoy the long summer days than getting out and about, catching up with friends and family over some delicious food. Luckily for us there are heaps of fantastic places to dine out in around our beautiful local area – which is just the treat to tempt those of us out there who call ourselves ‘foodies’.

Alternatively, if cooking is your thing, then have a look out for the latest, freshest local produce and get inspired to create and cook your perfect summer dishes! Your local Farmers markets and farm shops will stock all the finest and broadest choices of fresh, seasonal and often organic fruit and veg (in addition to, often, cheeses, eggs, honey, cakes and so much more) so be sure to support them – it’s also a great way to learn more about your food, and where it comes from, by talking to the producers directly.

When dreaming up your fresh summer menus don’t forget to include al fresco lunches, picnics and BBQ’s too – we all love eating outdoors (the kids especially) and there are so many fun ways to get yourself and the family all eating really healthy, delicious food – so what are you waiting for, let your creative side run wild!

To help with inspiration or to save some pounds, why not visit the Great Food Club (www.greatfoodclub.co.uk) for a merit-selected list of some of the best independent food (and drink) establishments in the Midlands (and beyond). Sign up for free membership and enjoy up to 25% off great food and dining experiences.

Finally, if you’d like to learn more about British food, including what packaging logos to look out for and information about regional and seasonal variations, visit www.lovebritishfood. co.uk for a really great online guide on the diverse and delicious food that Britain produces.

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Local Vineyard Success!

Kingfishers’ Pool Vineyard has won two medals in the prestigious United Kingdom Vineyards Association (UKVA) competition, which is the only national competition for English and Welsh wine.

The still dry white wine made from Siegerrebe and Solaris grapes, called King Richard, won a silver medal. This wine is made in the boutique winery at the vineyard in Rothley.

The pink sparkling wine, Spirit of Freedom, made from Orion, Siegerrebe, Regent and Pinot precose grapes, won a bronze medal. This was made from the Rothley grapes, which were sent to Halfpenny Green Vineyard in Staffordshire who have considerable experience in the complex process of making sparkling wine by the traditional method (methodè champenoise) using disgorgement which takes two years.

Vineyard proprietor, Liz Robson, said “This is the first time I had entered a wine completely grown, produced and bottled by myself into a national competition, and when I saw the results and the words “silver medal” I had to read the text several times before I could believe it. Spirit of Freedom had already attained commended in the International Wine Competition so the bronze was not a surprise. When I scrutinised the results further and realised that ours was the only Leicestershire vineyard to have won any medal I was ‘over the moon! What had started as a hobby has now become true artisan winemaking.”

Liz retired last July from her full time position as principal lecturer in midwifery at De Montfort University to devote more time to the vineyard, which started as a hobby in 2008. She is enthusiastic about local history which is apparent in the names of the wines. King Richard is probably obvious.

Spirit of Freedom is named for William Wilberforce who stayed frequently at Rothley Temple (now Rothley Court Hotel) with his university friend Thomas Babington and drafted the act of parliament to abolish the slave trade there. There is a history section on the vineyard website www. rothleywine.com which explains further.

The vineyard is small, but determined to succeed in producing fine quality wines with a distinctive Leicestershire identity. The vineyard’s four wines are sold under its company name of Rothley Wine Ltd and can be purchased from a number of local retailers, wine bars and at Ragdale Hall. At the moment the vineyard is not open to the public, but this may change next year once a toilet has been built.

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What’s On...

Sounds Like Swing Saturday 12th September 2015, 7:30pm Come and join Sounds Like Swing for another trip down memory lane and enjoy an evening of nostalgia listening and dancing to songs from the Fifties and Sixties.

Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall, 7.30 pm for 8 pm start, bring your own snacks, drinks and glasses.

Contact dee.patterson@live.co.uk or telephone 01509 891090 for more information and tickets - £7.50 each.

The Battle of Bosworth Anniversary Weekend Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd August 2015 10am - 5:30pm

Ashby Farmers Market Saturday 15th August & Saturday 19th September 2015 Ashby Farmers Market is held at Manor House School, South Street, Ashby LE65 1BR from 9am - 2pm on the 3rd Saturday of every month. Over 25 Producers bringing the finest foods from across the region.

For further information about the Farmers Market telephone 01530 261660.

Seeking relatives Friday 18th September 2015, 2pm

Son of Far East Prisoner of War to give talk on 1st Btn Leicestershire Regiment!

To commemorate the 70th anniversary year of VJ Day Ken Hewitt will be giving an illustrated talk on the findings of his research into the 1st Battalion Leicestershire Regiment during the Malaya Campaign and subsequent captivity as Far East Prisoners of War (FEPOWs).

He is trying to contact as many relatives of 1st Battalion FEPOWs as possible to invite them to the talk which is to be held at the Belmont Hotel, Leicester.

His father C/Sgt JT Hewitt served with the regiment and research into his father’s military career led to Ken spending the last 5 years researching all 934 men of the 1st Battalion during the period 1941-45. He is now keen to share the knowledge he has gained with other FEPOW relatives and others who may be interested.

For further details please contact Ken Hewitt on 01279 834415 or by email at: kenhewitt@ntlworld.com

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Don’t miss this year’s spectacular battle re-enactment – a fantastic day out for all the family!

We are proud to present, together with the Wars of the Roses Federation and Destrier, the re-enactment of the Battle of Bosworth.

Compare the power of the cannon over the speed of the archer – which was the more effective weapon?

See the award winning jousters pit their skills, or browse up and down the medieval market.

Let the kids (young or old) have a go at the Devil Sticks, Diablo or walk the wire. While you wait, have their face painted to look like the prince or princess you always wanted - plague victims also an option! Let your little ones also have a go at being a medieval archer for a small charge.

Check our web site for details of our guest speakers (a small charge will apply).

Book online before 21st August to buy your discounted tickets. Full price tickets can be purchased on the day.

Bosworth Battlefield Guided Walks August: Sat 1 & Sun 2, Sat 8 & Sun 9, Sat 15 & Sun 16, Sat 29, Sun 30 & Mon 31 A 2km guided walk exploring the battle of Bosworth, the death of King Richard III and the unlikely victory of Henry Tudor. 11am & 2pm. Adult £4.50, child £3.25 (family tickets available).

Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre & Country Park, Sutton Cheney, Nr Market Bosworth, Nuneaton CV13 0AD T: 01455 290429 | E: Bosworth@leics.gov.uk www.bosworthbattlefield.com

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Summer Activities & Events at Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts The first crafts unit in the Georgian Stable block was established in 1974. There are now 16 businesses covering a wide range of disciplines and we are recognised as a true ‘making’ centre.

Next event: Sunday 9th August – The Big Buskers are back... come down and soak up the fun!

Throughout the summer there will be a nature trail quiz, which is 50p with a prize for all completed entries. The quiz will have you hunting the centre and grounds of Staunton Harold for the answers while enjoying the setting of this quintessentially English location and keeping the kids entertained.

The area is a great place for walks, feeding the ducks down by the lake and picnics. You can grab an ice-cream from the deli and tea and cake at the tea rooms. There are also numerous craft workshops to visit.

Great British Summertime This August you will be able to appreciate all that makes our British Summertime great. Come rain or shine, Ferrers Gallery will be celebrating everything British from seaside day trips to picnics at the park.

Memories of wet and windy strolls or sunny dips in the cold North Sea are to be treasured with stunning seascapes and beach hut landscapes in shimmering glassware, whilst printed textiles will take you down memory lane with images of donkey rides, postcards, piers and promenades.

Festival campervans will be depicted in metal and wirework sculptures, and coastal towns recreated using driftwood. Sea urchins and mussels have been cleverly recreated as silver jewellery, and individual glass bead pendants reflect the shoreline.

Boats will be bobbing along in wood, textiles and ceramic, with fish in all guises following in their wake.

Lazy afternoons in the garden are also remembered through pictures and prints of birds, butterflies and bees, while the seasonal burst of colour in the garden is brought to life through ceramics, felt, bronze and paper.

But our summertime wouldn’t be British without a downpour so under a canopy of colourful bunting, beautiful umbrellas made of silver and enamel will also adorn the Ferrers Gallery shelves.

Ferrers Gallery is open 11-5pm Tuesday – Sunday (Closed Mondays except bank holidays) and is situated on the Leicestershire / Derbyshire border between Ashby de la Zouch and Melbourne off the B587. The postcode for Sat Nav is LE65 1RW. The Ferrers Centre for Arts and Crafts is sign posted with brown tourist signs from all directions (look for the anvil symbol).

Parking is in the Estate Car Park – charges apply at weekends and Bank Holidays only. Charges are £1.00 for 1 hours and £2.00 for 2hours or more; parking remains free of charge in the week. Limited disabled parking is available directly opposite the centre, with good access to the studios and tea rooms.

Visit the website for more information www.ferrerscentre.co.uk , call 01332 864 863 or email: info@ferrersgallery.co.uk.

Whitwick Party in the Park and Scarecrow Festival Saturday 5th September, 2015 This annual event is held at Whitwick Park, North Street, Whitwick from 11am. Over 60 stalls, lots of entertainment and exhibitions throughout the day which finishes at 5pm.

Collect your map of the scarecrows and walk around Whitwick to choose your favourite scarecrow.

For information on the day or book a stall email: rosemary@whitwickcommunityenterprises.co.uk www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

Shepshed ALLeY Group Shepshed ALLeY Group is a registered charity for young people aged 12 (Year 7) to 19 who have physical, mild learning or social interaction difficulties.

We meet most Friday nights, unless a trip is planned for a Saturday, from 7.15pm until 9.15pm at the Hind Leys Youth Centre in Shepshed. It costs £2 a week, paid on the night when you turn up.

If you know any young people who would benefit from joining the group, or you would like to volunteer please contact us for further information: 01509 880375 | admin@ alleygroup.org.uk | www.alleygroup.org.uk

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Holiday Activity Thringstone Music Festival Children’s - Minibeast Hunt

Saturday 1st August 2015, 2pm - 10pm

We can’t wait for this local music festival right on our doorstep! There will be plenty of live music, a BBQ, fun & games and even stalls to keep you occupied!

The festival is suitable for the whole family so please do bring everyone along.

Tuesday 4th August 2015, 10:15am Join the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust on a Minibeast Hunt - Discover the minibeasts of Beacon Hill Country Park using bug pots, pooters and nets.

Sessions are 10.15am to 11.15am and 11.30am to 12.30pm Suitable for children aged 5 - 12 years old. All children must be accompanied throughout the activity.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL. You can book online: http://www.lrwt.org.uk/news-events/events/1167-wildplay-childrens-holiday-activity-minibeast-hu/ £2.50 per child. Car park fee £2.50 per car - pay on barrier, no change or ticket given.

www.lrwt.org.uk

The organisers know what it’s like going to a local festival with kids; You want to listen to the bands and relax, they want to play and be entertained. So they have organised a Bouncy Castle, of course, plus a kids basketball game.

Also a number of smaller games such as Giant Jenga and Connect 4. So a bit of a chance for parents to relax and listen to the music - some of the time anyway.

Introducing some of the best local live music ...

HEADLINERS: House of Thieves • The Bench That Rocked • Simply Acoustic • Blues Electric • Hartland Country • The Shadow Cats • The Mocking Jays • Unplugged The inside and outside festival bars will be open and stocked full of both alcoholic and soft drinks.

Generally music festivals can be quite uncomfortable for older music enthusiasts but there will be scouts and others making sure they have chairs if they need them and tea and coffee in the scout hut where it will be quieter, so if you bring older members of the family the organisers already have them in mind. This is a family day afterall!

The centre bar will also be popular for a quieter sit and gossip.

What more could you ask for?? “FREE ENTRY” you say... done!

For more information please look on the Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/thringstonemusicfestival Thringstone House, The Green, Thringstone, LE67 8NR

RAISING FUNDS FOR THRINGSTONE HOUSE Photo: ©Afphotography

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Swannington Regular Events: Tuesday Afternoons & Evenings - Art Classes, Village Hall Wednesday Mornings - Heritage Trust Land Management Working Party Thursday Afternoons & Evenings - Art Classes, Village Hall Friday Mornings - Heritage Trust Mill Maintenance Working Party Sunday Mornings - Service, St. Georges’ Church.

Sunday Afternoons - April to September, Hough Mill open 2-5pm

1st Swannington Guides & Brownies Contact: Patricia Hibbert Tel: 01530 835441

Special Events: Bring & Share Barbecue - Sunday 9th August, 1pm Bring some food for the barbecue and a water pistol for our spectacular water fight at the end of the event. Enjoy the mill, food, pond dipping and water fight. Email for more details or visit the website.

Swannington Archives - Monday 17th August Find out about the great history surrounding the village with 1,100 maps, photos, wills, deeds and other documents at Swannington Village Hall. Email for further details.

East Midlands Industrial Archaeology Conference - New Sights at Old Sites - Saturday 10th October In Swannington hosted by Leicestershire Industrial History Society.

See the website for further details:

www.swannington-heritage.co.uk or email: chairman@swannington-heritage.co.uk

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Local Clubs National Forest Folk Club

Ashby Concert Band

Friday 11th September 2014, 8.30pm. £10

Saturday 26th September 2015, 7:30pm The Palace Theatre, Ibstock, is the venue for Ashby Concert Band’s next performance. With an emphasis on the musicals, this selection of film music looks set to be a very enjoyable evening. Tickets are available from band members or on the door.

The Palace, High Street, Ibstock, Leicestershire LE67 6LH Tel: 01530 262400 | www.thepalaceibstock.co.uk

Performer: Sunjay Brayne: With a relaxed and confident manner, vocal style and mastery of his instrument he walks onto a stage and addresses the audience as though he is sitting down to play music with a group of close friends.

BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award Nominee 2012 Wath Young Performers Award Winner 2012 Exposure Music Awards Triple Nominee 2014 British Blues Awards Nominee 2014.

A monthly venue that aims to bring the best of folkmusic and great entertainment to North West Leicestershire.

The National Forest Folk Club is held at The Moira Miners Welfare Club, Moira near Ashby de la Zouch DE12 6BP.

Ashby Bridge Club Ashby Bridge Club is an EBU-affiliated club. We welcome players of all standards. Non-members may play up to three times before joining the club.

Meets Monday & Thursday at 6:45pm, Wednesday at 12:45pm & Friday at 9:30am. Function Room at Hood Park Leisure Centre, North Street, Ashby, LE65 1HU. Contact Bob Stokes - 01530 460920 (chair.) or Kay Darwin - 01827 898234 (sec.). www.bridgewebs.com/ashby

Griffydam Community There’s lots going on at the Chapel in the Valley. Join them every Wednesday at 3pm for the wonderful Chat Cafe. Come along for tea and cake and make new friends.

Have a look at the website for more information: www. chapelinthevalley.com Book Club? We think we have enough interest to start a group now which is fantastic with the first meeting looking likely in the early Autumn - once the holidays are over. Anyone interested please drop the organiser an email: katy@katydraper.co.uk Art Classes? George’s art classes are now full and set to start in the Autumn.

If you’re interested in learning a new skill or improving an existing one please email: contact@griffydamvillage. co.uk and if we have enough interest in certain areas we’ll look at setting up a class or group. More art classes will be set up in the future for everyone who would like a go!

Look out for the Christmas Barn Dance - we’re planning a ho down in Ole Griffydam! Grab your partners for a DoCeDo on 12th December! Save the date and please do let us know if you can help organise this by emailing: contact@griffydamvillage.co.uk You can find out about events taking place on the Facebook page: ‘Griffydam’ www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

Whitwick & District U3A Whitwick and District U3A will hold its August General Meeting on August. The U3A offers friendship through learning and social activities to those no longer in full time employment. Our members have opportunities to be involved in a wide range of Interest Groups. At the General Meeting, Group Leaders and others will be available to answer any questions and pass on details about our U3A. The speaker at the August meeting is to be Sandy Leong.

Sandy’s talk is entitled “Hey Diddle Diddle - The History and Meaning of Nursery Rhymes”. This is a chance to find out answers to questions like who Little Miss Muffet really was; why Jack had to be nimble; and who was Humpty Dumpty. You may be surprised.

To listen to Sandy and discover more about our thriving and friendly U3A, come along on Friday 21st August to St. David’s Church Hall, Broomleys, Coalville at 1.45 for a 2.00pm start. Alternatively, visit our website

www.whitwicku3a.org.uk where there are full details about Whitwick & District U3A.

The Coleorton and New Lount Volunteer Group Coleorton & New Lount Volunteer Group (CNLVG) is set up to do practical work in 2 local wildlife nature reserves - with a few social events too! Work sessions start at 10am and usually last 4 hours.

The group is looking for new members so please contact them if you are interested in conservation work; if you could spare a few hours on a Saturday or maybe a weekday; if you want to get outdoors, make some new friends, stretch some muscles or make a positive difference to the area. Further details and photos on their website: www.cnlvg.moonfruit.com

Bat Walk & BBQ - Saturday 29th August, 6:30pm The Coleorton & New Lount Volunteer Group are holding a Bat Walk & BBQ Evening at New Lount Nature Reserve.

The event will feature a brief talk on British bats before we move on to a Bat Walk in search of the bats. Numbers are restricted so if you are interested do let me know as soon as possible. Cost is £5 to include food.

Email: coleorton11@gmail.com. Tel: 01530 223456.

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The Great Central Railway AUGUST 2015 There is a varied selection of events throughout the month to entertain all age groups, but mainly aimed at the younger generation.

Also a good selection of Dining Trains to get the taste buds going.

TEDDY BEARS’ HOLIDAY EXPRESS Tuesday - Thursday 4th - 6th, 11th - 13th.

Take a trip on the Teddy Bears’ Express and meet Billy and Beartrice on one of the trains and stop off at any of the stations along the line where there will be plenty to entertain the children all for a fantastic price of £25 for a family of five, extra for some of the attractions.

MINIATURE STEAM WEEKEND Saturday and Sunday 8th and 9th.

Final details for this event are being prepared, but press deadlines approach, please see the web site nearer the date or phone Loughborough, details below.

MORRIS MINOR DAY Sunday 16th.

There will be a varied selection of one of Britain’s favourite cars the Morris Minor some as new, some 60 years old, and some still used every day, at Quorn and Woodhouse between 10.00am and 4.00pm.

CLASS 31 MILEAGE DAY Friday, 21st.

D5830 which has a long association with Loughborough, built at the Brush Works in the town and may have run on the line before it closed. It arrived at the GCR in 1998 when purchased by the Type One Locomotive Co Ltd from the scrap line at Toton and made its debut at the Diesel Gala in April 1999. It will make five round trips from Loughborough at 12.30, 2.00, 3.30, 5.00 and 8.05, the Griddle Car will be serving hot food and real ales.

MIDWEEK RUNNING Tuesday-Thursday 18th - 20th and 25th - 27th.

The normal midweek service resumes after the Teddy Bears’ Express for the rest of the month..

MEET PEPPA PIG & GEORGE Saturday - Monday 29th - 31st.

Peppa Pig and Brother George return for a second visit of the year during the three day Bank Holiday Weekend, with plenty to keep the young ones fully entertained at each of the stations along the line.

DINING TRAINS There is the usual weekend selection to choose from plus two Murder Mystery evenings on the 7th and 14th, an extra Charnwood Forester on Friday the 21st, Wine and Dine Wednesday on the 26th and a Spanish Evening on Friday the 28th.

PREVIEW OF EVENTS IN SEPTEMBER Midweek running continues on the first four Wednesdays, there will be a Diesel Gala, Sci-fi Weekend, Swap Meet at Quorn, a four day Beer Festival and the End of Season Steam Engine and Classic Vehicle Weekend. Plus a varied selection of Dining Trains.

Photo: Visiting from the Severn Valley Railway for two weekends Ivatt 2-6-0 No 43106 at Leicester North during the Woodford 50 to commemorate the closure of Woodford Halse Shed 50 years ago, this engine was based there during BR days. The loco also ran during the Model Event the following weekend.

For all the latest information visit the website at: www.gcrailway.co.uk or phone Loughborough on 01509 632323.

Dave Allen, Duty Station Master, Rothley. www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

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No: 14

Crossword ACROSS 1. Scottish society, often quoted anonymously (6) 4. Hip, cool or wicked in the 1950s (8) 9. Watery, especially eyes (6) 10. Made a long, wavering, high-pitched sound especially at an Arabic wedding (8) 12. Assistant (4) 13. Page, page number (5) 14. Cartridges, bullets (abbreviation) (4) 17. Able to be distinguished (12) 20. American diner (for midday meal only?) (12) 23. Harvest (4) 24. Expression of mild surprise or fear (5) 25. Very small quantity (4) 28. Nag in pot (anagram) (8) 29. Type of offering made in thanks or anticipation of a wish (6) 30. American pants (8) 31. Advertising phrase (6)

DOWN 1. Brutal, primitive (8) 2. The Granite City (8) 3. US television award (4) 5. Having many sides or aspects (12) 6. 26 and 27 betray the most precious belief 4, 4, 4 (4) 7. With the beat (2, 4) (6) 8. Organisation that distributes free bibles (6) 11. Sweet manufacturer (12)

15. Play a guitar (5) 16. Organ that controls hormones (5) 18. Bending over (8) 19. Abdominal delivery (8) 21. Ticklish spot, oxter (6) 22. Plain-woven unbleached cotton (6) 26. see 6 down (4) 27. see 6 down (4)

Look out for the crossword solution in the October / November issue!

Crossword No: 13 Solution

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Sudoku For You!

August / September 2015 - Issue 15

Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club Annual Show

The Annual Show of the Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club will be held at the Richard Hill Primary School, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston on Saturday 5th September 2015.

This will be our third year at the school, the previous two were extremely successful. More exhibitors showing more exhibits and more afternoon visitors enjoying the whole occasion.

With a large range of classes there is something for one and all. Forget the idea that only “experts” participate, this is a show designed to involve the whole family; the whole community.

Whether you grow flowers and vegetables, arrange flowers, make jam, take photographs, paint, embroider we have a class just right for you. It’s a wonderful opportunity to show-off your skills, so please don’t be afraid to have a go - it’s not the fierce competition that many still believe it to be. If you’ve always thought “I’d love to have a go but…..” don’t hesitate, join in the joy of taking part in a gentle competition with like-minded folk.

There’s also a tombola stall, refreshments and the chance of a real bargain at our end of Show “market stall” sale of produce.

The Show is open to everyone and exhibits are displayed from 8.30 am to 10.45 am on the morning of the Show. Doors are open to visitors at 2.30pm and entrance fee is just 50p (free to exhibitors and children).

Show schedules are available from the Thurcaston village hall, Tebbatts Electronics, Brookside Nursery, Bradleys Supermarket, Wyevale Garden Centre, Brooklea Nursery, or from the Show secretary on 0116 235 9758.

The next meeting at the Gardening Club in the Memorial Hall will be: Wednesday 14th October, 7.45 pm – The History of Hidcote Manor – Kate Ward. The fascinating 100 year story of this magnificent garden.

New members always welcome. For more information of any of these events call Dave Haddon on (0116) 235 9758.

James Alexander Sinclair to help raise money for ‘Schools into Gardening’ James Alexander Sinclair will speak at The Leicestershire & Rutland Gardens Trust “Celebrity Lecture” on September 16th, 7.30pm at Leicester University. All proceeds from the lecture go to support local schools, through the Trust’s “Schools into Gardening programme”. Tickets are on sale now, to book call 0116 2705711.

James’s talk, titled “A Life in Five Gardens”, about his life in gardening is sure to be entertaining, informative and passionate. In his words;“I was never a childhood prodigy: one of those at the sound of whose toddling footsteps roses would preen and daisies turn their heads in expectant glee. I stumbled upon gardening by accident and there is seldom a day that passes when I am not thankful for that accident. I spend my life flitting around the countryside designing gardens for some very lovely people. My talk will tell the stories behind five of my favourite gardens “ James is one of the foremost garden designers in the UK. He has designed gardens from Cornwall to the Western Isles and from London to Moscow. He is also an award winning writer, a compelling speaker, a frequent broadcaster - most recently in the BBC2 series The Great Chelsea Garden Challenge, and an elected member of the Council of the Royal Horticultural Society.

The “Schools into Gardening” programme has been running for over five years and has enabled the trust to provide financial support to gardening projects in a number of local schools. This year the Trust has committed grants in excess of £1000, including work with Maplewell Hall Special Needs School, trips to Kelmarsh walled garden for inner city schools such as Charnwood, and a student award at Brooksby College. All profits from the talk will go to our “Schools into Gardening Project”.

The Leicestershire and Rutland Gardens Trust is a voluntary organisation and a registered charity. The Trust brings together people from all walks of life who are devoted to protecting our landscape, parks and gardens giving their members the opportunity to learn more about garden heritage and how to protect it for future generations. www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

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EVENTS DIARY Coalville by the Sea Friday 07 August 2015, 11am - 4pm Bring the whole family along to the grass area of Needham’s Walk, Coalville (off Belvoir Road towards the town centre car park) for this fun, FREE family event.

Children will get the chance to kick off their shoes and feel the soft sand between their toes before building sand castles using some bright buckets and spades. There will be crafts to have a go at and some magical music to sing along to. A puppet show will entertain young and old with family favourites before a giant whale descends and brings some magical surprises. Coalville Library Storytelling, Play bus, inflatable, Ice Cream, Face Painting and good family fun. FREE. Please bring something to sit on. Tel: 01530 411767 for more details.

Rock n Maul Festival 2015 Saturday 08 August 2015, noon - late Coalville Rugby Club is hosting this event bringing music and sport together in one amazing event. There will be some fantastic live bands and plenty of rugby tournaments (adult, touch, kids tag etc) and the event will be hosted by George Chuter.

For more info go to our Facebook page: ROCK N MAUL 2015, email: shanefox@coalvillerugbyclub.com or call: 07980 711105

It’s FREE to add your community event to our events diary email: editor@thevineleicestershire.co.uk. Please send details in by 8th September 2015 for the October / November issue.

Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary Dog Show and Open Day Sunday 09 August 2015, 10:30am - 4pm Come along to Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary where they will be holding their annual Dog Show and Open Day - a lovely, traditional day out in the local countryside with dog show, dog agility, stalls, hot and cold food, entertainment and exhibitions.

You can see all the sanctuary animals - horses and ponies, goats, sheep, pigs, dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs!

This year there will be “Kids off Road” miniature cars, pony rides, a giant trampoline, bouncy slide, tea-cup ride, coconut shy and “Archery for All”. Plus lots of trade stalls and crafts.

Go along and find out all about the sanctuary and have some good old Leicestershire family fun in the fresh air!

Adults: £2, Senior Citizens: £1.50, Children: 50p.

Redgate Farm, 233 Shaw Lane, Markfield, Leicestershire LE67 9PW Open day entrance is just off Billa Barra Lane between Coalville and Stanton. www.redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk Tel: 01530 230455 / 01530 243925

Sunday Afternoons | Messy Church Community activities on Sunday afternoons at Viscount Beaumont School organised by St Mary’s Church, Coleorton. Open to all and free of charge. Details from Madeleine McCormick on 01530 224254 or 07729 110401. She can also be contacted at mccormick-family@dsl.pipex.com

Every Wednesday | Chummy Evenings at Rothley Bowling Club Chummy Evenings at Rothley Bowling Club, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley from 4.30 pm onwards. Everyone welcome. Further details may be obtained from Club Secretary Mrs Carole Law, tel: 0116 2990178 or email: thelaws@ntlworld.com

Saturday 01 August | Tudor Craft Day - Donington le Heath Demonstrations of a wide range of cottage crafts which would have been undertaken in a house like this hosted by the Friends of Donington. From 11am - 4pm, free event at Donington le Heath Manor House, near Coalville LE67 2FW. For further information, please contact us on 01530 831259 or visit the website: www.doningtonleheath.com

Sunday 02 August | Summer Fete Leicester Host Lions Club Summer Fete. Variety of Stalls, BBQ, Refreshments. Music by Hiss & Boo Band until 1.30pm.

11.00am - 2.30pm | 34 The Ridgeway Rothley Leics | Admission £2.00 Children £1.00

Wednesday 05 August | Concert in Celebration of VE and VJ Victories The Rothley RBL have organised a celebratory concert with the Coalville Male Voice Choir that will be held to celebrate victories in the European (VE) and Japanese (VJ)conflicts.

Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR | Doors open at 6.30 pm for a 7.30 pm start, a tea/coffee interval will be held at 8.30pm and the concert will be brought to a close around 9.30 pm.

Wednesday 05 August | WALK: Loughborough Naturalists Club Watermead Nth. Country Park, including the Reedbed Nature Reserve, Wanlip. Meet at 9.30am at the car park just off the old Wanlip Road (SK 607 113). To find the entrance when approaching on the A6, turn eastwards on the Western Bypass and at the second roundabout, (near the Sweater Shop factory) turn right again on the Old Wanlip Lane and drive to the end passing the ‘Hope & Anchor Pub’ and turn left through the entrance gate and almost immediately right into the car park. (£2.50 per car). Contact Doreen, on 0771 340 97 43 for further information.

Wednesday 05 August | Snibston’s Beam Engines in Steam - Coalville An opportunity to see Snibston’s stationery engines in full steam - they will be running at different times throughout the day. Usual entry price (Adult 16+ £7.95, Child (3-15) £5.50, Family Tickets from £24.25). For further details visit the website: www.snibston. com or telephone 01530 278444. Snibston, Ashby Road, Coalville, LE67 3LN.

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EVENTS DIARY 04, 05, 06, 11, 12 & 13 August | Teddy Bears’ Holiday Express Make the most of our fantastic prices and celebrate the school holiday with us! Take a ride on the Teddy Bear Trains - at just £25 for a family of 5 its unmissable value! There will be activities at Loughborough Station, Quorn Station, Rothley Station and Leicester North. Children are encouraged to bring their favourite cuddly toy along for the ride. There will be stalls, rides, games, face painting, a treasure hunt, picnic boxes for sale and much more.

Visit the website to find out all the exciting details: www.gcrailway.co.uk

Thursday 06 August | Fun House Comedy Club Fun House Comedy Club at Ashby Lyric Rooms, Lower Church Street, Ashby. LE65 1AB, Tel 01530 415039. Doors open 7.30pm Starts 8.15pm All Shows £10 advance (unless stated otherwise), food available 7.30pm to 8pm. www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

Thursday 06 August | Charity Whist Drive The next in the series of Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr will be held at 7.30pm. Admission £2.00. All players welcome.

Large free car park. The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

Friday 07 August | Classic Motorcycle Festival - Donington The Donington Park Classic Motorcycle Festival has become one of the biggest Classic Racing events in Europe with 500 racing machines expected on track over the weekend of this year’s extravaganza. The racing is organised by the Classic Racing Motorcycle Club with the emphasis this year on thoroughbred Grand Prix machines. For further information and to book tickets please see the website or call 0844 873 7343 or visit the website: www.donington-park.co.uk

Friday 14 August | Palace Film Night - ‘The Water Diviner’ After the Battle of Gallipoli, in 1915, an Australian farmer, Connor (Russell Crowe), travels to Turkey to find his 3 missing sons. Enjoy a drink from the bar whilst watching a great film in this unique venue; one of the oldest surviving purpose-built cinemas in the country.

Doors/ bar open at 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm | Tickets: £5/£4, Advance tickets from The Palace Tel: 01530 262400. Tickets can be purchased ‘on the door’ (subject to availability) The Palace Community Centre, High Street, Ibstock, Leicestershire LE67 6LH

Friday 14 August | Spongebob Squarepants The Movie Life is dandy in Bikini Bottom for SpongeBob Squarepants and his friends Patrick, Squidward, Mr. Krabs and Sandy. However, when the top-secret recipe for Krabby Patties is stolen, SpongeBob finds that he must join forces with perpetual adversary Plankton, and come ashore to battle a fiendish pirate named Burger Beard who has his own plans for the delicious delicacies.

Spongebob the Movie is at the Century Theatre at Snibston Discovery Centre. Film starts at 2pm, doors open half an hour before.

Admission is £3 for adults and £2 for children. To book tickets please call 01530 278444. Snibston, Ashby Road, Coalville, LE67 3LN.

Saturday 15 August | Ashby de la Zouch Farmers Market Ashby Farmers Market at Manor House School, South Street, Ashby LE65 1BR. 9am - 2pm on the 3rd Saturday of every month.

For further information on the Farmers Market telephone 01530 261660.

Saturday 15 - Sunday 23 August | Thringstone Art Exhibition The Annual Art Exhibition by Thringstone Art Group will be held in the Thringstone Community Centre on The Green, Thringstone LE67 8NR. It has about 200 paintings by local artists for sale. It is open Monday -Friday 3pm-9pm. Saturday 1-5pm and Sunday 2-5pm. Free admission.

Friday 21 August | KIDS CINEMA: Into the Woods As the result of the curse of a once-beautiful witch (Meryl Streep), a baker (James Corden) and his wife (Emily Blunt) are childless.

Three days before the rise of a blue moon, they venture into the forest to find the ingredients that will reverse the spell and restore the witch’s beauty: a milk-white cow, hair as yellow as corn, a blood-red cape, and a slipper of gold. During their journey, they meet Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel and Jack, each one on a quest to fulfill a wish.

Into the Woods is at the Century Theatre at Snibston Discovery Centre. Film starts at 2pm, doors open half an hour before.

Admission is £3 for adults and £2 for children. To book tickets please call 01530 278444.

Saturday 22 August | Ibstock Allotment Society’s 20th Open Flower and Vegetable Show Open to the public from 2.00pm. Schedules are available from Ibstock Business Centre, The Palace or Mr R Whitby. For more details contact Mr Whitby on Tel: 01530 260830. The Palace Community Centre, High Street, Ibstock, Leicestershire LE67 6LH

Bank Holiday Monday 31 August | Summer Fete - Moira Furnace Come along on the bank holiday Monday for a summer fete, Cream teas, brass band and boat trips will be available. 11:00am 4:00pm. Alongside the Furnace Museum there is a courtyard which houses a café and craft outlets along with the public toilets with disabled and baby changing facilities.

At Moira Furnace Museum, Furnace Lane, Moira Derbyshire/Leicestershire DE12 6AT. For further information telephone 07976 637858 or 01283 224667 or email moirafurnace@hotmail.co.uk or visit the website: www.moirafurnace.co.uk www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk

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TACKLE THE WISTOW MAZE THIS SUMMER Winner Of Leicestershire’s “Best Visitor Attraction” Enjoy a great day out exploring one of the country’s largest maize mazes, set in 8 acres of living maize and sunflower crop. It’s great exercise for mind and body!

Perfect for all ages, with staff/office outings even more popular than school trips!

See if you can unravel the QUIZ TRAIL, and find all 12 quiz boards hidden amongst the 3 miles of paths. Remember to take a pen/pencil to fill in the quiz brochure.

You can go in and out of the giant maze as many times as you like during the day. Maybe stopping for lunch, or playing in the Activity Funyard before re-entering and completing the Quiz Trail.

Visit the ACTIVITY FUNYARD and test your maze solving skills on a variety of mini mazes, puzzles and table-top activities before or after visiting the giant maze. A mini maze (also with hidden pictures) are in our funyard, as well as our popular 6 minute mazes, rope maze, hoopla, bean bag throwing, photo panel, football shooting game, space hopper track and more, so it’s entertainment for all the family whatever your age.

Opposite the maze is the Wistow Rural Centre with a cafe/bistro, Mediterranean deli, garden centre, model village (with trains), art gallery and a large variety of other shops.

So come and have a GREAT DAY OUT whether you like solving puzzles, climbing up towers, waving flags, deciphering codes, walking, shopping, eating ice-creams, feeding ducks, visiting an historic Church or just getting lost! - There’s something for everybody.

For more information visit the websire www.wistow.com or ring 07884 403889.

. ..

L A V I V E R l e r r o Mounts

... an old-style festival of fun!

On Sunday 9th August 2015, the Village of Mountsorrel in Leicestershire will be

Walking, Rolling, Dancing, Pushing, Druming, Engine Reving, Fancy Dressing and Hula Hooping … It’s REVIVAL time!

The REVIVAL is Mountsorrel’s version of the traditional village fete – all the old fashioned fun served with a modern twist and a great free day out for the whole family.

With Live Music, Soap Box Racing, Shopping, a Dog Show, Good Food & Drink and a River flowing through, Mountsorrel is the place to be.

Mountsorrel’s Parade returns to the street... Starting at the Village Green the parade will be lead by a Californian Police Car! Prepare yourself for.... Hot Rods and Custom Cars, Tribal Drummers, The Businesses and Artisans of Mountsorrel, American Civil War Platoon, The Churches of Mountsorrel - with a lighthearted display of the work of the church, Hula Hoop Dancers, The Entire Soap Box Racing Field - Cars and pit crews, The Burlesque Girls (who will be collecting ‘revival money’ from you good people). Mixed in will be the Soar Valley Archers, Local Scouts, The Canoe Paddlers, Belly Dancers - and all sorts of odd stuff! ...and finishing up with ‘Greengrass’ from Heartbeat in his wooden travelling waggon.

Check out all the fun on the website or Facebook and get involved!

www.mountsorrel-revival.co.uk or link with us on facebook 48

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THE VINE DIRECTORY

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Brides of Ibstock............................. 51 Caroline James.............................. 29 MB Sign Design.............................. 42

EDUCATION & CHILD CARE Anstey Kumon Centre.................... 39 Grace Dieu..................................... 27 Reusable Nappies.......................... 39

FOOD, DRINK & VENUES A. Holmes Butchers........................ 34 Bombay Indian Restaurant............. 32 Chapter One Cafe.......................... 31 Farmers Markets............................ 32 The George Inn.............................. 31 The George & Dragon.................... 32 Grey Lady Kitchen & Deli............... 30 Holly Bush Inn................................ 30 The Manor House........................... 35 Occasions Tea Rooms.................... 32 Quorn Country Hotel...................... 33 Smithards Bakery........................... 34 Vintage Afternoon Tea Parties........ 34 The Wheatsheaf Inn....................... 30 Woodcock Farm Shop.................... 30

GARDEN Delegate Services.......................... 14 Garden Blueprints.......................... 14 Harrison Landscaping.................... 21 H20 Design..................................... 28 L B Grounds Maintenance................ 5 LB Landscaping.............................. 28 Leicestershire Garden Design........ 25 Outdoor Solutions........................... 14

GARDEN continued...

Roecliffe Tree Surgery.................... 24 Total Tree Services......................... 18

HAIR & BEAUTY Hair By Josephine.......................... 51

HEALTH Charnwood Hearing Centre............ 49 Charnwood Physiotherapy............. 49 Coalville Mobility Centre................. 24 Helping Hands................................ 18

HOME Absolute Window Solutions.............. 2 Ancient & Modern........................... 14 A-Rated Glazing............................... 4 Ashby Decorators Centre................. 8 Broughtons....................................... 8 Carpet Cuts.................................... 52 Charnwood Oaks...................................6 Coalville Decorators Centre........... 20 Coalville Furniture Superstore.......... 8 CV Lane........................................... 6 DeVol...................................... 10 + 11 DG Plumbing.................................. 49 DP Furnishings............................... 14 The Flooring & Bed Company.......... 5 G&D Property Services.................... 6 Glenfield Electrical.......................... 14 Graham Botterill - Soft Furnishings... 14 Holme Tree Kitchens...................... 21 Kingswood Kitchens......................... 7 The Light House............................... 7 Loft Storage Solutions...................... 3 Logburners Ltd................................. 3

HOME continued...

Martin Allen Flooring......................... 4 MDW Fireplaces............................... 7 MGAS............................................. 18 Quality Flooring Services............... 51 RJ Rowley...................................... 24 RSJ Roofing..................................... 4 Splashout....................................... 15 Tiles 4 Less.................................... 20 UK Gas Services............................ 20 Watson’s Electrical......................... 14

LEISURE Bosworth Battlefield........................... 39 Bradgate Park - Living History.......... 38 GCR - Peppa Pig & George.............. 38 Just Bikes........................................... 14 Leicestershire Country Parks............ 38 National Forest Wood Fair................ 18

MOTORS & TRAVEL Cropston Garage............................ 49 Premier Airport Taxis...................... 27 Redhall Garage.............................. 51

PETS Anstey Cattery................................ 51 Glebe Von Wood............................ 51 Havers Raw Dog Food................... 51 Posh Paws..................................... 42 The Veterinary Surgery.................. 51

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Dodds Solicitors LLP...................... 28 Mander Cruickshank...................... 27 Prusinski Solicitors......................... 42 Roy Green - Sales & Lettings........... 3

Please remember to tell our advertisers that you saw them in The Vine magazine If you would like to submit editorial or advertise in The Vine, Leicestershire then please telephone: 01530 249048 or email: editor@thevineleicestershire.co.uk Alternatively you can visit the website to find out more: www.thevineleicestershire.co.uk August / September 2015 - Issue 15 50

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August / September 2015 - Issue 15