birstall post (389) december 2015

20
DECEMBER 2015 No. 389 t he Birstall post Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S P A P E R www.birstallpost.co.uk Girls’ charity run TWO YOUNG runners from Birstall organised their own five mile charity run for Children in Need. Olivia Bonshor (11) and her friend Lexie McLoughlin (11) ran circuits of King Lear’s Lake in Watermead Country Park on a drizzly Saturday morning in November. Lexie said: “We want to support Chil- dren in Need because they pretty much help everyone, all over the world”. The girls, who both live in Birstall and are pupils at the Cedars Academy, are members of Charnwood Athletic club and have been running competitively for just over a year. They are both ranked in the top 10 in the country for their age at 1500 metres – Olivia’s best time is 5:25 and Lexie’s is 5:23 Continued on page 3 Pic: Talented runners Lexie McLoughlin (right) and Olivia Bonshor Lots of Christmas Gift ideas Complete tank sets for coldwater or tropical on display, some ideal for youngsters’ starter tanks Full range of accessories, plants & ornaments POP IN & CHECK US OUT OPEN Mon - Sat 10-5.30 Tel: 0116 2671661 111 Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4GL OPEN Sundays 10 - 4 Helpful service based on 30 years experience here in Birstall Gift vouchers from £5 For our hours during the Christmas period please look on our Facebook site or our new website www.friendsinsoggyhomes.co.uk need an need an electrician? electrician? SO Electrical Contractors 18 Cliffwood Ave • Birstall • Leicester 0116 2672675 or 07816 288765 www.need-an-electrician.co.uk “Local, Reliable,Clean & Tidy” That’s what our customers are telling us! see our web site for more testimonials. • Fuse board upgrade/Rewires • Additional sockets & lighting • Landlord safety certificates/PAT testing • Electric showers fully installed • All work guaranteed • Free call out for elderly people LANCASTER LANDSCAPES BLOCK PAVING SPECIALISTS Drives • Patios • Paths Garden Design Crazy Paving Slabbing Fencing Lawns Cut Hedges Cut Turfing Slabs & Walls Cleaned or 07979 851976 01509 814280 If you sell or let a property you will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) To arrange your EPC call Carl on M: 07872 516786 T: 0116 212 3843 The standard charge is just £50 EPCs £50 ACCREDITED ENERGY ASSESSOR Carl Kaeppner-Smith Need an EPC? www.epcleicester.com

Upload: the-birstall-post

Post on 24-Jul-2016

229 views

Category:

Documents


6 download

DESCRIPTION

Birstall Post Dec 2015

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DECEMBER 2015 No. 389

the Birstall postY O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

Girls’ charity runTWO YOUNG runners from Birstall organised their own fivemile charity run for Children in Need.

Olivia Bonshor (11) and her friendLexie McLoughlin (11) ran circuits ofKing Lear’s Lake in Watermead CountryPark on a drizzly Saturday morning inNovember.

Lexie said: “We want to support Chil-dren in Need because they pretty muchhelp everyone, all over the world”.

The girls, who both live in Birstall

and are pupils at the Cedars Academy,are members of Charnwood Athletic cluband have been running competitively forjust over a year.

They are both ranked in the top 10in the country for their age at 1500metres – Olivia’s best time is 5:25 andLexie’s is 5:23

Continued on page 3

Pic: Talented runners Lexie McLoughlin (right) and Olivia Bonshor

Lots of Christmas Gift ideasComplete tank sets for coldwateror tropical on display, some ideal

for youngsters’ starter tanksFull range of accessories, plants & ornaments

POP IN & CHECK US OUT

OPEN Mon - Sat 10-5.30

Tel: 0116 2671661

111 Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4GL

OPEN Sundays 10 - 4

Helpful service based on 30 years experience here in Birstall

Giftvouchersfrom £5

For our hours during the Christmas periodplease look on our Facebook site or our new

website www.friendsinsoggyhomes.co.uk

need anneed anelectrician?electrician?

SO Electrical Contractors18 Cliffwood Ave • Birstall • Leicester

0116 2672675 or 07816 288765www.need-an-electrician.co.uk

“Local, Reliable,Clean & Tidy”That’s what our customers are telling us!see our web site for more testimonials.• Fuse board upgrade/Rewires• Additional sockets & lighting• Landlord safety certificates/PAT testing• Electric showers fully installed• All work guaranteed• Free call out for elderly people

LANCASTERLANDSCAPESBLOCK PAVING SPECIALISTS

Drives • Patios • PathsGarden DesignCrazy Paving

SlabbingFencing

Lawns CutHedges Cut

TurfingSlabs & Walls Cleaned

or 07979 85197601509 814280

If you sell or let a propertyyou will require an EnergyPerformance Certificate (EPC)

To arrange yourEPC call Carl onM: 07872 516786T: 0116 212 3843

The standard chargeis just £50

EPCs

£50ACCREDITED ENERGY ASSESSOR

Carl Kaeppner-Smith

Need an EPC?

www.epcleicester.com

Page 2: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST2

Page 3: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 3

In Year 6 both students participatedin the school’s Cross Country held atPrestwold Hall and won third place, theywere also picked to represent Leicesterand Rutland in the Counties Sports Com-petition and their team won first place.

This year competing in the SecondarySchools Cross Country Lexie has been

placed 3rd, 3rd and 4th whilst her run-

ning partner Olivia has been placed 7th,

6th and 8th. In the secondary schoolcross country relays they competed andtheir team won first place.

Both girls said they would like tocompete in the Olympics and to one dayrun a marathon.

Lexie’s dad Tom said: “I’m proud ofher. She runs not just for herself but forfriends, and both girls have gone fromstrength to strength. Olivia’s dad Philsaid: “They run for each other. It’s rareto see two girls of such a high stand-ard.”

The Broadnook Garden suburb is oneof the areas suggested for developmentin Charnwood Borough Council’s CoreStrategy, which is the council’s blueprintfor where new housing, employmentland and infrastructure should be builtuntil 2028.

At a meeting of the full CharnwoodBorough Council on November 9, 39councillors voted to adopt the CoreStrategy and eight voted against.

Birstall councillor Iain Bentley waslegally required to declare an interestand could not vote. Birstall’s three othercouncillors, Renata Jones, SerindaShergill and David Gaskell, voted infavour of adoption.

The main areas of proposed develop-ment are:

• 1500 homes and 15 hectares ofemployment land on land to the north ofthe A46, between Birstall and Rothley.The land is in the parish of Wanlip.

• 4500 homes and 13 hectares ofemployment land to the north ofHamilton/east of Thurmaston.

• 3000 homes and 16 hectares ofemployment land to the west of Lough-borough

The Core Strategy also sets out howthe Council aims to help boost economicrecovery in the area with plans for theregeneration of the Watermead corridorwithin the Thurmaston and Syston area,support for further development of theLoughborough Science and EnterprisePark and a regeneration plan for Shep-shed.

The Birstall Post understands that thedevelopers of the Broadnook GardenSuburb are planning public exhibitionsof their plans in January or February of2016, prior to submitting an outline

planning application.Birstall Parish Council’s chairman

Ann Marshall said that the Parish Coun-cil objected to the inclusion of theBroadnook Garden suburb at the earliestpossible stage. She said: “We objectedon the grounds that the strategy wasunsound and that the local infrastructurecouldn’t cope.

“The village tried so hard to stop theHallam Fields development and it madenot one jot of difference and realisticallyI don’t think we could ever stop thisone. Charnwood has its housing targetsto meet – that’s good for them, but whatabout the residents!

“This new development will have1500 cars at least, plus the employmentland, so anybody can see what the im-pact will be. The A6 is already terribleand we in Birstall will be the most badlyaffected. My worry is what they can doto mitigate the impact on the roads andI hope that Charnwood will engage withthe developers to address these con-

cerns and that they will involve the par-ishes at each stage in the process. Wewant to be consulted about everything –traffic, section 106 money, everything.”

In a statement, Birstall’s ConservativeBorough councillors said: “… whetheryou like it or not, more houses areneeded and you only have to look at thepresent speed of house sales and thereported demands for new houses torealise that this is the case.

“Without a plan to control and directsuch needs we would face the prospectof developments taking place not wherewe want them but rather where develop-ers see fit to locate them.

“We believe that the Broadnook Gar-den Suburb would enhance our area byproviding additional facilities for thearea. We, as councillors, are committedto ensure that the development’s infra-structure is front loaded, carefully put inplace and monitored as the developmentproceeds.”

The full statement is published on theYour Say page.

Former Birstall Borough Councillor,Lib Deb Simon Sansome, has started a

CHARNWOOD COUNCILLORS have voted to approve a plan-ning document that recommends building 1500 newhomes north of Birstall.

Continued on page 4

Continued from page 1

The January issue ofTHE BIRSTALL POST

will be published on Jan 9.The copy deadline is Dec 18.

Plan allocates site for 1500 homes

Midland WindowInstallations

29-33 Thurcaston Rd, Leicester LE4 5PG Tel: 2676167

Specialist inPVC-U Windows,Doors, & Conservatories

ROOFLINE PRODUCTS INCLUDING GUTTERING

to triple glazing with orders

placed with this advertFREE UPGRADE

DA Roofing& Building

Tiling • Slating • RepointingGuttering • Fascias • Soffits

ALL WORK GUARANTEED • NO VAT

Tel: 0116 4315689Mob: 07789 116726

Over 25 Years Experience

61 Worcester Ave, Birstall

Page 4: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST4

petition on change.org to oppose the development. Itcurrently has 289 signatures. He says Birstall cannottake this amount of new houses.

Borough councillor Eric Vardy, Cabinet Member forPlanning, said: “This is a significant moment for us as acouncil and I am delighted that the Core Strategy hasfinally been adopted. This document not only sayswhere significant new developments should go, it alsosays to developers where they should not go.

“I know some elements of the strategy are not uni-versally supported, but I hope people will accept thatwe have taken every step to consider all views beforereaching a conclusion. I am confident the Core Strategywill help control future growth and preserve the char-acter and beauty of the borough as a whole.”

Parish CouncilnotesA FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Coun-cil was held on November 9.

PCSO Mark Butler reported there had been an in-crease in thefts including a number of incidents of bilk-ing – filling up at a petrol station and driving awaywithout paying. Stolen number plates are often used to fiton the car before stealing petrol in this way.

A high value vehicle stolen from Curzon Avenue hasbeen recovered and two men from Birmingham arrestedin connection with the offence.

Youths caught outside St James’ Churchin connection with damage to the churchroof have had their parents spoken to andhave had restorative justice applied, doingwork in the churchyard and paying forrepairs to a damaged window.

The council agreed to adopt children’splay area two at Hallam Fields which hasrecently been completed by developerJelson but has not yet been opened to thepublic.

It was agreed to provide £550 to theBirstall Royal British Legion Football clubfor new kit.

It was reported that the Parish Councilhad received no news from the CountyCouncil regarding the County’s plans toinstall traffic calming measures on BirstallRoad.

It was reported that the St James’ BibleStudy Group had donated £50 to the Par-ish Council’s youth café. New white LEDlights will be fitted to the Christmas treeserected on the shop fronts along SibsonRoad this year, saving £800.

The council has agreed to spend£2052 for the Village Hall floor to bescrubbed and sealed.

The Council is considering projects forthe next financial year. Suggestions putforward by councillors include: completerefurbishment of the Village Hall toilets, atree warden scheme, palisade fencingalong the perimeter of the HarrowgateDrive playing fields, the adoption of Mead-ow Lane and new play equipment

BROADNOOKGARDEN SUBURB

BIRSTALL

WANLIP

ST WATERTREATMENTWORKS

Pic: a 2014 map of the Boroadnook Garden suburb Continued from page 3

Call Nowfor aFreeQuotation

Available

in a choice

of colours

A-Rated as

Standard

AwardwinningfirmBIRSTALL Double glazingcontractors, Conservatory &Window Concepts Ltd, hasbeen handed a prestigiousaward for the sustainedquality of its customerservice by leading consumerinterest organisation, theConsumer ProtectionAssociation.

The CPA, which helps thepublic to identify safe reliablecontractors to carry outhome improvements, award-ed its 5 year Membership

AchievementAward to CWC.

Membershipof the CPA meansthat customershave their de-posits and guar-antee

underwritten by the or-ganisation.

Mandy Manning fromCWC said: “We put the inter-ests of the customer first andwe won’t compromise on ourattention to detail or thequality of the materials weuse.

“Everything is carefullyproject managed by us per-sonally and we do everythingwe can to ensure the workwe do enhances your home.”

Plumbing & HeatingEst 1968

Tel: 0116 2692167Mob: 0792 1703 765

211637

General PlumbingBathrooms & TilingLandlord CertificatesPOWER FLUSHINGNew Installations & UpgradesGas Boilers/Fires Serviced & Repaired

LOCAL BUSINESS • CALL GARY ON

Elliott & Ball

Page 5: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 5

TWO TEACHERS fromShanghai have been teach-ing maths at a Birstallschool as part of an ex-change project.

Wang Yagi and Pansheng Nan spentthree weeks in November at The CedarsAcademy teaching maths ‘Shanghaistyle’ to specially chosen pupils in Year7 and 8.

The Shanghai approach has the classsitting in rows with all the studentsworking together on the same materialwith a lot of repeated recitation by theclass until the concepts are understoodand embedded.

Maths teacher Anne Beckett said: “Iparticularly like the emphasis that theyplace on making pupils show clearsteps in working out and getting chil-dren to explain how they arrived attheir answer.

“The Shanghaiteaching styleseems very formaland old fashionedcompared to mathslessons being de-livered every day atThe Cedars – pu-pils are encour-aged to writedown definitionsand explanationsand chant themout loud together.The Shanghaiteachers place astrong emphasison using correctvocabulary andthey expect working out to be laid outstep-by-step. This is a good habit forpupils to develop which will hopefully

earn them extra marks whenthey take their GCSEs. In Shanghai, allchildren have learned their times tablesbefore they leave primary school – this

knowledge helps them to develop adeep understanding of other topics.”

Anne was one of 70 maths teachersfrom across England who travelled toShanghai in September where she spenttwo weeks in Chinese schools watchingteaching taking place in secondary andprimary classrooms.

“It was fantastic to see some amaz-ing maths lessons and watch childrenlearn in a different say” she said.

Students at the Cedars Academy havebeen enthusiastic about the Shanghaistyle, says Anne. Tanja Eidsdottir (12)said: “The teachers have explainedthings in more detail, they’ve repeatedthings so they get glued in our heads.We’ve been reading things out together,taking part in the teaching ourselves in

a way, and they don’t move on untilthey are one hundred per cent sure weall understand.”

Jake Parrott (12) said: “I’ve alwaysenjoyed maths but it’s been really funwith the Chinese teachers because it’sreally interactive, it’s almost like a con-versation with lots of quizzes andgames.”

Chinese teacher Wang Yaqi said:“The students at The Cedars are veryactive, much more so than in China.They are not afraid of talking to theirteacher, about the problems they arehaving in the lesson, and I enjoy talkingto them.

“The students have been interestedwhen I’ve given them a new definition,and they have made progress with theirlearning.”

Shanghai is one of the top perform-ing jurisdictions in the Pisa global edu-cation league tables, which suggest thatby the age of 15, children in Shanghaiare up to three years ahead of theirEnglish peers in maths.

The government has invested£11million in a two year programme toboost England’s performance in mathsand the teacher exchange is part of theDepartment for Education’s Maths Hubprogramme.

Head Teacher at The Cedars Acade-my Jason Smith said: “It is cutting edgemaths teaching and is a great opportu-nity for us, we are really proud to bechosen to be a part of this exchangeproject and to have the two teachersfrom Shanghai here.”

Anne Beckett said: “When the Chi-nese teachers have gone home we needto meet as a department and identifythe elements of their teaching which wefeel will have most impact on theprogress of our pupils and then seehow we can introduce these changesinto lessons and schemes of work.

Shanghai teachers share world class approach

Pics: Shangahi teachers Wang Yaqi (left) & Pan-sheng Nan; (inset) teaching students at the Ce-dars Academy

MA’S COTTAGEChinese Takeaway

Welcome to Ma’s Cottage – your traditional Chinese Takeaway in BirstallOur takeaway aims to deliver fast, fresh food that is full of authentic finest ingredientsOur main dishes are generous portions!You can order your favourite dishes online,over the phone or in person. We acceptcash payments for delivery and collection,card payment is available for online ordersthrough our website:www.mascottagebirstall.co.uk

Please let us know if you have any specialrequirements eg larger party or group lunch…

Tel: 0116 267 1577Ma's Cottage Chinese Takeaway1 Hannah Parade, Stonehill AvenueBirstall, Leicester LE4 4JEOPEN: Tue-Sun 5pm-10.30pm

Cut out this voucher for £2 off orders over £10

ALL

PH

OTO

S A

RE

FO

R IL

LUS

TRA

TIO

N O

NLY

!

(closed Mon, OPEN ON BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS)

3-5 miles,add £1 per mile

Page 6: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST6

Page 7: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 7

A LOCAL musician will perform hischarity Christmas single when heperforms at Birstall’s Christmaslights switch on event on Decem-ber 4.

James Plimmer (23), a former Longslade stu-dent, has written a song called ‘A Christmas With-out You’ and fifty per cent of the money made onevery download from his website or from iTuneswill go to the Leicester based charity Loubob’sLegacy.

It was founded in 2014 by Aylee Penn to raise

THE CHRISTMAS shopat Birstall GardenCentre is now biggerthan ever and ispacked full of Christ-mas decorations,trees and gifts.

“It’s unique to Leicester,has everything for the holidayseason, all under one roof ina dedicated show house” saidJordan Lee, who together withsister Jo Henderson are thesecond generation to runtheir garden and leisure busi-ness that was started 45 yearsago.

Jo said: “We have decora-tions covering themes fromsumptuous traditional reds,golds and tartans to Scandina-vian reindeer. We sell giftsand toys for everyone includ-ing a huge selection of scent-ed candles, throws,chocolates, soft toys and nov-elty stocking fillers and much,much more.”

The Christmas shop islocated at Birstall GardenCentre on Sibson Road. Theshop celebrates the villagelight switch on with a latenight opening on December4. On Sunday December 6and December 12 & 13 Santapays a visit each afternoonhanding out sweets for thechildren and hot chestnutsand popcorn too. “Customerscan choose their freshly cut,locally grown Christmas treeand get into the Christmasspirit” said Jo. Pic: Sales assistant Heidi Mumford puts the finishing touch to one of the trees in the

Christmas shop.money for brain tumour research and isnamed after her son who died after a 10year fight with cancer.

“The money raised will go to raisefunds for a new research centre to helpfight the disease, and to develop newmedicines” said James.

James’s performance is at 5.30pm onDecember 4 at the Sibson Road car

park, where he will be playing his singleas well as a few Christmas songs. Alsoperforming will be Alyshia Dhakk. Jameswill be singing at 13 other Christmaslights switch on events throughoutLeicestershire.

Birstall’s Christmas lights switch onevent will feature a Christmas market(from 4.30pm), fairground rides, re-freshments, a visit from Santa and a freemince pie and mulled wine for visitors.

www.jamesplimmer.co.uk

Music atswitch on

Pic: musician James Plimmer

Christmas gifts for all at shop

Trouble with your figures?Wantsomeone towalk youthrough a selfassessment?

Let me helpget yourbooks inshape…

& keep them trim

Linda Kimberley-Brooks (ACMA)

Final accounts • Self assessmentTaxation • Bookkeeping • VAT

Payroll • Management accounts

A friendly service tailored to your needs0116 23 66 345

Companies & individuals call now onwww.twyf-accounts.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Page 8: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

BIRSTALL REMEMBERED all those who have losttheir lives in war at the annual Remembrance Dayservice and parade.

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST8

The parade com-prised units from theBirstall branch of theRoyal British Legion,the Women’s Sectionof the Birstall branch,the Royal AirforceAssociation, the AirTraining Corps(1947) unit, theScouts, Guides,

Brownies, Girls’ Brigade, Boys’ Brigadeand a support unit from the Fire Service.

The Union flag and a stand-ard from the Royal BritishLegion led the columnwhich marched to StJames’s church via FrontStreet, Birstall Road andChurch Hill.

The service was con-ducted by Birstall clergyunder the direction of thevicar, Rev Vince Jupp. After-wards the parade marched to the

war memorialwhere a twominute silence wasobserved. MrsRosemary Conley,a Deputy LordLieutenant, laid thefirst wreath.

On November11 at 11am therewas an act of re-membrance at thewar memorial

attended bymembersof the public including agroup of seven students fromthe Cedars Academy. One ofthem, Thomas Mills, said:“The memorial service wasvery thoughtful. We gave athought to those who had

fallen in conflicts that wemaybe were not able to recall.

They made us think about recentconflicts and to those who have lostloved ones.

“This was an experience which I willremember and every year I will think ofthe fallen solders and families who havehad to live through the pain of talking tothem but they will never respond.

“This makes you think what it will belike if you were in their shoes, whatyour life would be like. We will remem-ber them.”

BIRSTALL’S LISA Spence wasthe first woman home at theBraunstone park run on Octo-ber 31 with a time of 21.46.

Lisa, a busy mum withthree chil-dren and afull timenurse,belongs toBirstallrunningclub.Pic: BirstallRunningClub’s LisaSpence

Pic: Students from the Cedars Academy at Birstall war memorial: Tom Mills, Amber Sudra, Zoe Stead,Josh Faull, Taylor Dempsey, Tamzyn Hadley-Mace and Barney Sutton

First lady

TREE TRUNKS placed around theedge of Red Hill island in No-vember were the first stage ofwork to completely block accessto the island by travellers, saysLeicester City Council.

Within a few hours of them being put inplace, several caravans and a camper vanset up camp on the island.

The City Council began the process toremove them and says that once they aregone they will block the perimeter of theroundabout with soil embankments.

Red Hill

Pic: Rosemary Conleylaid a wreath

Hundreds gather for Remembrance service

Heat SaveWindows & Conservatories

Why Choose Heat Save?► No high pressure sales techniques► In fact, NO salesmen employed at all► All products hand built in Leicester

by our trained craftsmen► The most competitive prices► 10 year underwritten guarantee► Free advice & quotations

Come & visit our showroom

84 Thurcaston Road,Corner of Abbey Lane, Leicester LE4 5PFTel: 0116 2666646 Mob: 07801 [email protected]

www.heatsave-leicester.co.uk

(Now replaces FENSA)National Warranties

Misted updouble glazing ?Replace withnew clear sealed unitsFaulty locks & handles replaced

Call Colin Wright for afree quote

07765635505 • 01162209573LOCAL BUSINESS

VEHICLE TESTINGSTATION

MOTTESTING

PETROLS • DIESELSMOTORCYCLES

CROPSTONGARAGE

37 - 39 Station RoadCropston, Leicester

0116 2362363

Page 9: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 9

A BIRSTALL couple celebrat-ed their 70th wedding anni-versary at a lunch withfriends and relatives at Bir-stall Golf Club.

The platinum pair, Stan and MarjorieHeath, live on Wellgate Avenue and weremarried on November 10, 1945.

The couple, both 92, met at theBlackpool Tower ballroom in August1944.

“I was there with a friend but he wasnot a dancer so I went on my own whilehe went down to the beach” said Stan.“I saw this young lady on her own andthought ‘I recognise that face’, I’d seenher riding her bike on Blackbird Roadin Leicester at lunch times.

“Well I went over to her and askedher to dance and she told me she camefrom Leicester and worked for the Brit-ish Thomson-Houston Company, which Ialso worked for, on Blackbird Road.Well, we stayed with each other all after-noon and wentback on the trainto Leicester andtalked all the wayback.”

“We couldn’treally meet atwork and a monthwent by when Isaw her friend andasked her if shewould ask Marjorieif she would go tothe pictures withme – her friendcame back and theanswer was yes.”

“It was at theOdeon, somethingwith Glenn Ford and Rita Hayworth” said

Marjorie.The couple mar-

ried 12 months laterat St Paul’s church onFosse Road. Theyhave lived in Birstallfor 38 years.

Stan said: “Whatdid I like about Marjorie? Well, she wasintellectual, knowledgeable and well

spoken – she had a bit of class.”“He was just lovely” said Marjorie.The couple have always

enjoyed doing things to-gether and have manyshared interests such asballroom dancing, going tothe races and gardening –they have been members ofBrooksby Gardening Clubfor 30 years.

They have three chil-dren, four grand-childrenand three great-grandchil-dren.

“It’s not been perfect,we’ve had our fallings out,but never go to sleep on it,never go to sleep on athorn, that’s what I call it –we always made up beforebedtime.

“We’ve never beenafraid to walk down thestreet hand in hand, we stilldo it today, that’s howwe’ve always been.”

BIRSTALL’S NEW commemo-rative clock on the front ofthe Village Hall was officiallyunveiled by the Mayor ofCharnwood in October.

Mayor Cllr John Capleton was invit-ed to unveil a brass plaque erectedbeneath the clock, which was installedby the Parish Council in July.

The Mayor and Mayoress MegJenkinson were joined by Mr JohnHolden, President of Birstall’s RoyalBritish Legion;Mrs AdrienneTopley, repre-sentative ofBirstall’s HistorySociety whodonated theclock to Birstall; the chair of BirstallParish Council, Councillor Ann Mar-shall and Councillor Ed Marshall.

Clockplaque

Celebrating 70 years together

Pic: married 70 years: Stan & Marjorie Heath; (inset) on theirwedding day

Can we help with:

• Garden Maintenance• Landscaping• Fencing & Gates• Patios, Paving &

DrivewaysPlease call Michael on:

0116 26753090798 0811737

PALLATTBROS. Ltd

Corgi Gas Reg. Installers

Page 10: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST10

I am writing to ask when we canhave the speed checks on Wanlip Lane?Certain times of the day it’s like a racetrack with speeds of around 50-60 mph.

Also who decided on having a blueChristmas tree for Birstall? There isnothing wrong in the traditional greenwith more lights.

Mrs A Davis

parking in the village is a nightmare, Ispend 30-40 minutes every day trying toget in and out of Greengate estate.

I’ve lived in Birstall for two decadesand love the people who live here.

I know there are a lot of politics inBirstall and most of the time I don'tvote, but I feel ashamed that we havesuch bad councillors in Birstall.

I don't know the full details justwhat's on spotted Birstall but from whatI've seen we have a councillor on theplanning committee at Charnwood Bor-ough Council who can't talk or representresidents on the 1500 home develop-ment. I found out its Mr Bentley ourCounty and Borough Councillor.

I may have missed this but is it nottheir job to represent our views?

I think Birstall may have missed Itrick here. I have never voted liberal inmy life and don't intend to but I wouldvote for the person. I honestly believethat Birstall has shot itself in the foot bynot electing councillor Sansome. I methim he was the only councillor to knockon my door in the 20 years living inBirstall. I have to say he was lovely andannoying, but he tried, worked hard andput out regular leaflets to keep us in-formed, and when I needed advice heemailed me back the same day.

Nothing in Birstall is going to changeunless we change our votes. From mypoint of view Birstall Councillors are notrepresenting us in Birstall or Wanlip.

I would feel embarrassed if I was acouncillor in Birstall.

Please Birstall lets get together andtry to stop the over development of thevillage as we're not going to get any helpfrom our elected representatives.

Name and address supplied

which is the time frame of this strategy,Charnwood will need 14,000 new homesand 12,000 new jobs. These figures,which have been accepted by the plan-ning inspector, are not plucked out ofthe air but rather arrived at after carefuldiscussions with the community, ourpartners in Leicester and Leicestershireand their planning authorities and aftertaking careful note of the views of inde-pendent experts in the science of prede-termining such anticipated needs. It is astrategy i.e. a plan, a vision, for deliver-ing growth for Charnwood up to 2028.Without such a plan to control and di-rect such needs we would face the pros-pect of developments taking place notwhere we want them but rather wheredevelopers see fit to locate them. Finan-cial considerations could therefore takeprecedent over local needs. CharnwoodBorough Council wishes to retain con-trol over Charnwood’s destiny.

It would appear to be common andto a certain extent understandable, thatall local authorities experience a degreeof animosity whenever any proposednew developments are proposed, localobjections will be vociferously raised.We all want to retain our green spacesbut nimbyism (i.e., not in my back yard)has now moved on to wigwam (i.e.,where it goes won’t affect me.) This iscertainly true in Leicestershire butwhether we like it or not, more housesare needed and you only have to look atthe present speed of house sales and thereported demands for new houses, torealize that this is the case.

So, the Core Strategy is a generalplan for the future, it will not happenovernight. The developers will have tocomply with this strategy when submit-ting their individual plans and thoseplans will have to go through the Charn-wood Planning Committee. It is at thisstage that the infra structure, such asleisure centres, schools, surgeries andthe like, will be determined and it is atthat stage that we all will be able tomake our views known.

One of the many problems of the

Hallam Fields development was thatunder the then Labour administration, itwas required that as many houses aspossible were built in a limited area.This has changed and now much moreattention is given to the aesthetics of thedevelopment. So the proposed Broad-nook development speaks of boulevards,playing areas and the like and of course,Charnwood Borough Council has made aconscious decision, repeated in the corestrategy, to continue to raise the stand-ards of design throughout all futuredevelopment proposals.

We believe that the proposed Broad-nook garden suburb development,would enhance our area by providingadditional facilities for the area. We, ascouncillors, are committed to ensurethat the development’s infrastructure isfront loaded, carefully put in place andmonitored as the development proceeds.This will hopefully, avert the problemsexperienced on Hallam Fields where wecouncillors have had to threaten andcajole the developers and the local au-thorities to provide the necessary infra-structures such as schools andcommunity facilities and this has beenvery much a ‘catch-up’ exercise. Thatsaid, because of the involvement of yourlocal councillors and their determinationto ensure that all the promised fundingby the developer was forthcoming, afurther £1.6 million has been providedand is being used to facilitate the infra-structure.

Councillor Bentley, because he livesand works on the proposed site of theBroadnook development, in order tocomply with the legal niceties, has ‘de-clared an interest’ and therefore mustabstain from any discussion. However,because we have three other councillors,they can and do raise issues as theymanifest themselves. Hence we havehad the proposed Wanlip By-Pass beingdropped and the proposed industrialdevelopment to the east of the A6 aban-doned. We work tirelessly as a teamand have achieved much for Birstall inconsequence during our time in office,

YOUR SAY...

The Birstall Post welcomes your viewsand opinions on any subject. Letters, whichmust include your name and address,(though not necessarily for publication)can be posted to: The Birstall Post, Unit109, Greenacres, The Sidings, LeicesterLE4 3BR, or handed in at Birstall libraryor email: [email protected]

I have to say that I am so disappoint-ed with Charnwood Borough Counciland the local Conservative Councillors.

Charnwood Council have approved1500 homes to be built in Birstall, whenHallam Fields is still under construction.

Leicester City are planning anothermassive housing development at the topof Greengate Lane. I am worried thatBirstall will be overran and over devel-oped.

We don't have a leisure centre,school places are hard to come by, car

The Birstall Post invited Birstall’s BoroughCouncillors to respond to this letter, and re-ceived this statement:

The person making these observa-tions is obviously unaware of the rea-sons behind the Charnwood Local PlanCore Strategy, of which the proposeddevelopment north of Leicester is but apart. It is a fact that, by the year 2028

Speed

Disappointed

ONLY £75 inc vat (5%)

Full pick up load approx1 cubic metre

• Mainly Oak and Ash• Grown in our own woods• Deliveries by appointment• Inspect before accepting

delivery• Order by phone (office hours) or

email which will beacknowledged

• Delivered within 7 days ofordering

• Phone call prior to deliveryDelivered to Swithland,Mountsorrel, Anstey, NewtownLinford, Woodhouse Eaves, Barrowon Soar, Cossington, Quorn,Birstall, Sileby, Cropston

TO ORDERT: 0116 230 0050 OFFICE HOURS

E: [email protected]

SPLITLOGS

TOP QUALITY

• End of year accounts• Bookkeeping and VAT returns• Payroll and CIS• Tax returns• For Sole-Traders, Partnerships

and Limited Companies• Business start-ups and company formations

FREE initial consultation

CP Accountancy LtdOffice 9, Lazarus Court, Woodgate,Rothley Leicestershire, LE7 7NR

T • 01162 303 973E • [email protected]

www.cpaccountancyltd.co.uk

CP Accountancy Ltd

Caroline Dinsmoreis licensed andregulated by AATunder licencenumber 5865.

The tax return deadline is

31 January 2016Lodgewood Ave, Birstall, Leicester

ALL TYPES OF DOMESTIC& INDUSTRIAL WORK

Extra PointsAlarmsRewiringSecurity LightingElectrical TestingPart P Registered

Control Electrics LtdTel: 0116 2682910

FREE ESTIMATES

• MONUMENTAL SCULPTORS• NEW MEMORIALS• CLEANING & RESTORATION• QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP• BROCHURE ON REQUEST

Showroom:3 BROOKBRIDGECOURT, SYSTONLEICESTERLE7 2JTTel: 0116 2601851

www.demontfortmemorials.co.uk

DE MONTFORTMEMORIALS

Page 11: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 11

most recently getting the parking restric-tions on Sibson Road extended to onehour.

What really saddens us is that peoplelike your anonymous correspondentthinks that we are not representing theviews of Birstall and Wanlip. Has he/sheattended our surgeries to articulate theirviews? If not, why not? We would loveto speak with them face to face andexplain just what we do for the peopleof Birstall. There are many people whohave attended our surgeries and haveexpressed their satisfaction with theoutcomes achieved.

Presently, your Birstall Conservativecouncillors are actively involved inworking with the Cedars academy toensure a suitable primary school is pro-vided on Hallam Fields estate. Workingwith the Leicester City Council to preventgypsies and travellers camping on Re-dhill Island (and we are opposed to thepresent use of large logs as a barrier,rather seeking a more permanent earthbund or metal barriers around thewhole circumference of the island). Wecontinue to monitor the progress of the£32.m refurbishment of RiversdaleCourt. We are in contact with our M.P.to try to provide a post office for HallamFields. We are voicing our concernsabout traffic on the A6 and BirstallRoad. We are working with the residentsof Burley Houses to ensure that theyhave an adequate security procedures inplace. Other issues which have beenbrought to our notice, such as replace-ment boilers and bathrooms in councilowned property, street parking and thestate of pavements have all been dealtwith or are being subject to furtherexaminations by the relevant depart-ments. These are just some of our in-volvements. The people of Birstall canbe assured that we will continue to lis-ten to all complaints and work tirelesslyto seek solutions.

Cllrs Renata Jones, SerindaShergill, David Gaskell and IainBentley

I would like to thank all the peoplewho stopped to help me on Sibson Roadon October 29 when my husband col-lapsed especially the lady from the tattooshop who helped to get him on to achair and got him a drink of water andthe lady who went to the garden centrefor umbrellas to keep us dry until trans-port arrived to get us home. It’s peoplelike this that makes Birstall a lovelyplace to live. My husband’s leg is a lotbetter now but he still doesn’t walk veryfar without a walking stick. Thank you.

Dorothy Oswin

£4 off for 16 – 26 yrs£15 Under 18s school groups£2.50 off over 60s and registeredunemployed£5 off for Groups 10+**Discounted tickets are subjectto availability and are restrictedto certain areas and performanc-es.*Plus a transaction fee of £3 forall card payments. Excludes Mem-bers, Groups 10+ and customersprinting tickets at home. Dis-counts are subject to availabilityand are only available on certainperformances.

Birstall ChristmasLights Switch On &Christmas MarketFriday 4 December - 5:30pm onSibson Road Car ParkFestive performancesby James Plimmerand AlyshiaDhakk from5:30pmSwitch On eventwill take place at6pm on the SibsonRoad Car ParkFairground attractions on the Sib-son Road Car Park from 3:30pmHot Dogs, Burgers, Hot Potatoes,Roasted ChestnutsSanta has confirmed that he isable to drop by and be with usfrom 5:30pmChristmas Market in the VillageHall from 4:30pmTea, Coffee, Soup and cold drinksavailable from the Day Centrekitchen on Birstall RoadIf you or your organisation areinterested in having a stall at theChristmas Market, please contactthe office for further informationor download the forms on the

Please let me thank your readers forletting me have their used stamps andforeign money.

Fred Savidge, 18 Rose Tree Avenue

Reading November Post’s letters, Istrongly agree it's crazy, how can we beexpected to believe that £7995 is spenton a false tree. Can I suggest planting alarge fern of finest quality, that isdressed each year £500 at the verymost, surely!

And would look perfect. (And pleaseno fence around it .)

Dean Spencer

Thank you to everyone who has sup-ported CLASH 2012 during the past year.The charity wishes you all a Happy Christ-mas and a prosperous 2016.

If anyone with good administrationskills can give a few hours to supportCLASH 2012 starting in January 2016,based at Dock (LE4 5NU), this will be agreat help for our growing arthritis charity.

Thank you! For further details, pleasecall me on 07751072612 or [email protected].

Christine Thomas

Oliver!is the Christmas production atCurve, LeicesterLet us transport you to VictorianLondon this Christmas for thistimeless tale about the boy whoasked for more…After escaping the workhouse,young orphan boy Oliver quicklyfinds himself alone on the bleakstreets of London. When he be-friends the mischievous ArtfulDodger, Oliver is introduced tothe art of pickpocketing, but couldhis new lifestyle lead him to dis-covering his mysterious past?Based on Charles Dickens’ classicnovel, Oliver! is one of the mostsuccessful musicals of all time andhas a sensational score that in-cludes such classics as Food Glori-ous Food, You’ve Got toPick-a-Pocket or Two, Where IsLove? and I’d Do Anything.In Curve’s brand new productionof Lionel Bart’s multi-award win-ning musical, director Paul Kerrys-on will be joined bychoreographer Andrew Wright,Musical Director Ben Atkinson andSet Designer Matt Kinley, to bringyou another must-see family fa-vourite. Consider Yourself in for atreat this Christmas!Tickets£42* – £18.50*Discounted Tickets**£16* Under 16s

Noticeboardall details printed free

Thanks

Thanks

Crazy

Thanks

(SEATED OR STANDING)

EXERCISECLASS

60+

Come along &join in the fun!

'Get Going Together Project'With the Age UK

TUESDAYS 10.30-11.15am

NEW EXERCISECLASS for 60+

Fun & Simple to followLine Dancing

at BIRSTALL SOCIAL CLUBFirst Session FREE OF CHARGE£3.50 pay as you go thereafter

Everybody Welcome • Fun Friendly Group

GLALXOSMITHKLINE proudly supportsTHE GET GOING TOGETHER PROJECT

Help loosen your joints, to keepyou active, healthy & feeling good!

THURSDAYS 11.45-12.30pmstarting 14th Jan 2016

077 910 86 521 / 0116 2237 365For more information contact Phillipa

BirstallDental Practicewishes all our patientsa Merry Christmas & a

Happy New Year

141 Sibson Rd, Birstall Tel: 2677180

I. Wardle Maintenance Services (Birstall DIY)Do you need any of the following workcarrying out? If so, please phone or email me.FENCING: Erection & Repairs: supply & erect or supply onlyGARDEN MAINTENANCE: Turf Laid, Mowed & Hedges Cut etcBUILDING REPAIRS/WORK: New Guttering & RepairsINTERIOR WORK: Curtain Rails Fitted, Mirrors Hung & PaintingLANDSCAPING: Gravel Drives & Paths LaidFLOORS: Concrete & Laminate Laid

Free estimate with no obligationEmail: [email protected] • Mob: 0776 8233552

• 0116 2676478

Happy Christmasto all & best wishes

for the New Year

ALANCHAMBERS

PAINTER &DECORATOR

Over 30 Years ExperienceFree Quotes & Advice

Tel: 0116 2941336Mob: 07989 451048

39 Copeland Rd, Birstall

Page 12: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST12

Council’s website:www.birstallparishcouncil.org.oukAnd don’t forget your FREE MincePie and Mulled Wine also availablefor collection from the Day CentreKitchen on Birstall Road from6:30pm

Want to know more aboutbreastfeeding your baby?Be in the company of like mindedmums?Pop along for a cuppa.Babies and toddlers welcomeLa Leche League Birstall Breast-feeding GroupSecond Thursday of the month1pm - 2.30pmBirstall Village Hallfor more info call Jackie 07787130801or find us on facebook

Film PresentationsThurcaston and Cropston ParishCouncil"Far from the Madding Crowd"Dec 11Thomas Vinterburg has assembleda superb cast for his new versionof Thomas Hardy's "Far from the

Madding Crowd". Carey Mulliganstars as Bethsheba, a landownerwho attracts attentions from threedifferent suitors. This is a gor-geous costume drama. Watch outfor the breath-taking cinematog-raphy in this enthralling film.

"My Old Lady" Jan 8, 2016 (107mins)"My Old Lady" is January's Britishcomedy starring Maggie Smith,with her well-timed witty com-ments. In Paris, Mathias inherits avaluable apartment which he in-tends to sell in order to pay off

some debts. However, Mathilde,played by Maggie Smith, livesthere and she causes serious com-plications. He is obliged to payher a costly life annuity. This de-lightful comedy is ideal to cheerus in the new year."A Little Chaos" will be shown onFeb 12.Thurcaston and Cropston ParishCouncil will be showing thesefilms at Thurcaston Memorial Hall.Starting at 7.30pm. Tickets willcost £5 and concessions will be£4.50. There will be refreshmentsand a lucky prize draw during theinterval. Advanced tickets may bepurchased via the parish office–0116 236 7626 or at the door.

'Are You Having A NewBike for Christmas?'Help Refugees/Assylum Seekersget aboutby donatingyour oldAdultBike(s) andanyCycle Accessories or Parts.Collection Date on a Saturday Jan-uary 201510 - 4.00 at the Catholic ChurchCarPark. (Details to be finalised).Please look out for Posters in theVillageand details on our Church Web-siteon www.Birstall.org or speak toRose Parrott(St James Church) 07811662235for furtherinformation. Birstall and WanlipChurch(es)support Leicester City of Sanctu-ary.

Come and Sing

Carols For AllIncludingFree Seasonal Refreshments atSt James Church, Church Hill,BirstallWednesday, Dec 16 at 7:30pm

Santa’s ComingSanta will again be visiting TheBaldwin Trust’s narrowboatSt.ClareIt will be sailing from The Hope &Anchor Wanlip every Saturday andSunday starting 28th Novemberuntil 20th December and also 21st

and 22nd December cost £5 each.Santa will have a present for allchildren 12 and under drinks anda mince pie for everyone else tobook ring his hotline on 07548813168.

St James Monday Groupinvite you to

Afternoon Teaat St James Church Social Area,School Lane, Birstall on Saturday12th December 2.30pm to4.30pm. There will be a Christmasthemed bring and buy stall, sur-prise Christmas parcels and a raf-fle.Please come along and supportThe Alzheimer's Society. Weshould love to see you.

Christmas Vintage TeaParty & HandmadeCraft FairBirstall Methodist Church on Sat-urday 5th December from 10am-2pmVintage tea party including festivetreats and bakes. Gifts and Deco-rations perfect for Christmas in-cluding handcrafted qualitywooden and fabric decorations,textile wear and home deco andpaper craft and gift cards. Vintagefashions, jewellery and shabbychic deco. Contact info for stallavailability and enquires:[email protected]

Birstall Royal BritishLegion5th Colin Powell (M/V)12th Bravo (Duo)19th Neil Timothy (M/V)Xmas Eve Steve Sinatra & Disco26th Free and EasyNew Years Eve Lesley (F/V)Dancing every Saturday night withlive entertainmentBingo, Free beer raffle and not

We offer a ‘FREE FIRST LESSON’to enable prospective students to

come and join in and have a look round.

Nowenrollingnew studentsin allage groups:

Tel: 0116 2355495Email: [email protected]

BABY BALLET - 2-4 YEARSBABY STAGE - 5-7 YEARS

JUNIOR STAGE - 8-10 YEARSINTER STAGE - 11-14 YEARS

SENIOR STAGE - 15 AND OVER

Weekly classes in the followingsubjects: Classical Ballet, ClassicalGreek, Modern Jazz,, Lyrical, Tap,

Speech & Drama, Acrobatics, Stage,Musical Theatre, National &

Commercial

Starlight Theatre SchoolHadrian Road, Mowmacre Hill,

Leicester LE4 2PQ

• Re-wires • Fuse Board Upgrades• Extra Sockets & Lighting• New Builds & Extensions• Landlord Safety Certificates/PAT Testing• Garden & Security Lighting• Electric Showers• Burglar Alarm SpecialistALL WORK GUARANTEEDFor a FREE quote:M: 07970 893250T: 0116 2303166Saxon Drive, Rothley,Leicestershire LE7 7SRwww.krelectrical.com [email protected]

DAVE HUTCHINGSGENERAL BUILDING & HOME REPAIRS

Brickwork • PatiosRe-pointing

Tiling • PlasterPatching • Fencing etc

No job too smallFriendly Reliable Service

Free Quotations • Fully Insured

Tel: 0116 260 7716Mob: 07770 785400

Email: [email protected]: www.dave-hutchings.com

Page 13: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 13

forgetting Open the BoxEvery Tuesday night Bingo start-ing at 9.15pmSunday Quiz nights Sunday 13thand 27th December starting at9pmAcoustic night Sunday 20th De-cember at 8pmWednesday quiz every week from8.30pmFood available every Saturday 12-2pmWakes catered forFree Wi-Fi availableNew outside seating areaWe wish all our members a VeryHappy Christmas

Belgrave CemeteryChristmas CelebrationSunday 20th December 10am-1pmThe Friends invite you to comealong to thecemetery andcelebrate thefestive sea-son withmincepies/coffee.All are wel-come

Churches Together in Birstall &WanlipThursday 31st December 20158.00pm start

New Year's EvePartyatBirstall Village HallParty games, Dancing,QuizzesBring & Share Buffet SupperBring your own drinksTickets @ £3.00Tel: 0116 2672606

Birstall & District LocalHistory SocietyThe next meeting of the Societytakes place on Thursday 11th De-cember 2015 in the Birstall Vil-lage Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall,Leics.The subject of the talk is "Victori-an Christmases" and the speakerwill be Cynthia Brown.The talk commences at 7.30pm.There will be parking available onthe night on the Birstall PlayingFields via the School Lane en-trance.Visitors are very welcome soplease come and join us for ourlast talk in 2015 before we com-mence in 2016 another new yearof interesting talks

Raise the Roof

Singing for FunConcertSt James the Great, Church Hill,BirstallFriday 11th December at 7.30pmSinging for Fun invites you toRaise the Roof for the Children’sSociety and Church funds withthem in another family-friendlyhour of seasonal fun at St Jamesthe Great on Friday 11 Decemberat 7.30. There will be the usualhappy mix of much-loved songswith plenty of carols and seasonalsongs. AND we love you to join in!FREE entry with a retiring bucketcollection

Birstall Tea Dancesheld atSt James Birstall Village HallBirstall RoadBirstall, LeicesterLE4 4DH

Friday 11th December ChristmasDance3.30 until 5.30pm£3 each on the doorTea / Coffee & Cake includedFurther information :Jackie Lucas0116 2248278 / 07908607405email:[email protected]

The NEARER groupmeets on Sunday 13th Decemberfrom 3:30 to 5pm atWanlip Community Hall.This will be the second session inour series on "Issues that affectusall" and we will be creatively ex-ploring the subject of 'Forgive-ness'.All are welcome!"

St James the Great, BirstallDecember 6th at 10am

Christingle AllTogether Service

A favourite for all ages. Come andcelebrate the coming of Jesus withsweet laden oranges and candlelitfun.In aid of the Children’s SocietyRefreshments after the Service.All Welcome

Councillor SurgeryLast Sat of every month10am to 12noon10 Sibson Road, Old Council OfficeTalk to your District & CountyCouncillors

to discuss any issue of local con-cern

Birstall Running ClubMeet Monday & Friday nights,6.20 for 6.30 runBirstall School Lane playing fields– showers & toilets availableWednesday night beginners groupat Birstall Legion 7pmSpeed work sessions also availa-ble on Wednesdays for thosewanting to improveContact Deryk on [email protected] or Bob 07927346640Web site – www.birstallrc.org.uk

Jack & theBeanstalkA pantomime byThurmaston ShowstoppersFri December 11, 7.30pmSat Dec 12, 7.30pmSun Dec 13, 2.30pmTickets are available from Thur-

maston Print Shop and from theCommunity Centre (Thursdays

only) or by telephonefrom Jack’s Box Office on

0116 3192 117 priced atjust 5 each.

Jack and the Beanstalk isa family pantomime and is

suitable for all ages,the show is a laugh a

minute, fully cos-tumed productionwith songs galore

to send the audi-ence home with a

smile, just agreat warm-up for the

Christmasfestivities

QualifiedMobile

Hairdresser

Elizabeth

Appointmentsavailable weekdays,evenings & weekends

Tel: 2672142Mob: 0780 380 2895

• Burglar Alarms• CCTV• Access Control• Fire Alarms25 Years Experience • OAP Reduced RatesAll Work Guaranteed

For All Your Security Needs contact:Kevin O’Connor, Lambourne Rd, Birstall

[email protected]

FOR AFREE

SURVEY &QUOTATIONCALL TODAY

Page 14: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST14

Ruth Sinhal is a teacher at Glebelandsprimary school, Beaumont Leys. Herproject, Leicester Schools Welcome Ref-ugees aims to put together welcomepacks for the hundreds of asylum seek-ers in Leicester, and for the five familiesof Syrian refugees that the City Councilhas agreed to take before Christmas.

She said: “I couldn’t live on £5 aday, could you? That’s one reason asy-lum seekers need support, they are oftenfleeing war and everyone deserves to livesafely.

“As for the five refugee families arriv-ing from Syria to live in Leicester beforeChristmas, surely they deserve a warmwelcome after all they’ve been through.”

The school is aiming to fill four orfive large plastic storage boxes withitems including toiletries, cleaning prod-ucts, baby items, food, pens and paper.These will then be distributed by the RedCross in Leicester.

Ruth said: “As well as donating theseitems the children are writing welcomeletters to be included in the packs so

the refugees or asylum seekers will feelpersonally welcomed to Leicester.”

Ruth’s project has the support ofLeicester City Council and by raisingawareness of the issues regarding asy-lum seekers she hopes that the schoolwill be the first in Leicester to be award-ed City of Sanctuary status.

She said: “There have been lessonsacross the school and all the childrenhave taken part in Circle Times on theissue to develop their empathy withrefugees and understand why they are inthis situation. We have had a visitingspeaker from Leicester City of Sanctuaryspeak in an assembly, informing us oftheir work and explaining the problemsthat face asylum seekers and refugeesliving in Leicester. Children have pro-duced some incredibly thoughtful workon the issues too.”

For more information:www.leicester.cityofsanctuary.orgTwitter: @leics_refugees

BIRSTALL SCOUTS braved azombie apocalypse to helpthem learn tradition scout-ing skills in a night timechallenge this October.

Nine scouts and four explorer scoutstook part in the event which saw themtrek beneath the Wanlip wind turbine,out to Cossington Lock then back toBirstall via Watermead Country Park.

Scout Leader Gareth Woods said:“This was a really unique opportunityfor the scouts to experience simple sur-vival skills with a twist as well as learn-ing and demonstrating the core values ofscouting all from a different perspectiveof undertaking these challenges in dark-ness.”

Fleeing zombies, each team com-prised a navigator, medic and an engi-neer and set out into the night to meetup at an evacuation point over fourhours away. They were guided by a voiceof a commander over radios who pro-vided a series of co-ordinates that had tobe navigated to.

The challenge called upon navigationskills, hiking, dressing wounds, tyingknots and communicating via MorseCode.

Scout Leader Ben Moore said:“Teamwork, communication, leadership,friendship and fun are key tenets of theBirstall scouts and this event typifies theethos of this progressive group, mergingthe traditional with the modern to pro-vide an experience that is both relevantand exciting to today’s culture whileretaining the values and traditions of thescouting movement. It’s also entertainingand different for the leaders!”

Comments from the scouts included:“running around the countryside wasawesome”, “it was amazing even if verytiring”, “it was tough”.

Scores were provided for all check-points which determined whether teammates survived or got infected. Of theoriginal 13 who set out on the challengefive managed to survive.

The 53rd Scout group offers opportu-nities for people of all ages and abilitieseither participating in sections, sectionleadership roles, administration or fund-raising. For details and to contact thegroup go towww.53rdbirstallscoutgroup.com

BEFORE THE Birstall Post and theLeicester Mercury reported on peo-ple and events in our village, earlier19th century newspapers like theLeicester Journal and the LeicesterChronicle, both long defunct, carriednews items about Birstall, then amuch smaller place with a popula-tion below five hundred.

Local historian, Mike Smith, hasbeen researching these early papersand a monthly selection of the moreinteresting and amusing of these newsitems will be appearing in the BirstallPost.

Lieut A L Crisp Clarke of the Argyll& Sutherland Highlanders, the son ofMr J Crisp Clarke of Birstall Hall, hasbeen invalided home after servingthroughout the whole of the SouthAfrican campaign.

He fought in thirteen engagementsincluding the disastrous reverse atMagersfontain and the surrender ofCronje’s army. As commander of amachine gun party he was frequentlyexposed to heavy fire. Unwoundedexcept when he lost the tip of a fingerhe had close calls when a bullet passedthrough his kilt and a man at his sidewas killed. Once a party of Highland-ers were besieged for two days andnights on a mountain top. One officerand ten men died from bullets or expo-sure before relief came. Lieut Clarkecontracted pneumonia as a result. Thiswas complicated when his hospitaltrain was isolated for three days whenGeneral DeWet cut the rail tracks.

There was a triumphal return toBirstall Hall. At Belgrave the horseswere taken out of the shafts and menpulled him back to the Hall which wasan open house and a crowd of 2000.

Leicester Chronicle: Oct 20, 1900

LookingBack

A BIRSTALL teacher has launched a project to help refu-gees who arrive in Leicester.

BirstallScoutsfleezombies

Welcoming refugees

SEASONAL PLANTS

Rectory Field Nursery, RectoryRoad, Wanlip, LE7 4PL0116 2674613

Christmas TreesLocally Grown & Freshly Cut

Pot Grown also available

Jane’s lovely Holly & Spruce WreathsFreshly Made, Plain or Decorated

Christmas Opening:Tue - Sat 9.30am-4.30pmSun 10am-4pm

to Wanlip

WE AREHERE

CedarsAcademy

WANLIP LANE

RECT

ORY

RD

Wild Bird Food & FeedersCoal, Logs, Kindling& Calor gas

WE ACCEPT AMEX, CREDIT & DEBIT CARDS

Rectory Field Nursery, Wanlip

Indoor Plants & ArrangementsNational Garden Gift VouchersFilled Pots & Hanging Baskets Jane & David

wish a

& a Happy New Yearto all our customers

Roy MorrisPlumbing and Heating

Installation, Upgrades & ServicingOf Gas Cookers, Boilers and FiresServicing of Boilers £35

General plumbing, shower &bathroom installs. Tiling &

electrical work also undertakenLandlords – don’t forget yourSafety Certificates: from £45Call now for a FREE no obligation quote

0116 2841076 / 07860 551820

Contact Nicky07544 [email protected]

Helping you to understandand help yourselfthrough therapy

Professional, confidential &experienced support

Page 15: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 15

A BIRSTALL playgroup hasbeen rated as outstandingby Ofsted.

Birstall Highcliffe Under 5s at Highcliffeschool was inspected in October and re-ceived Ofsted’s highest award in all areas:effectiveness of the leadership and man-agement, quality of teaching, learning andassessment, personal development, behav-iour and welfare and outcomes for chil-dren.

Jackie Bateman, leader of Acorn under5 playgroup said: “We are all thrilled tobits! Acorn owes its success to the dedicat-ed and conscientious team of staff whodeliver the best possible care and educa-tion for all children and their families.This personalised approach prepares themwell for the next stage of education as theymove on to primary school”.

The report noted that:• The well-qualified staff team are ex-

tremely motivated and work well together.Children become highly engaged in playand benefit from the outstanding teachingand support they receive.

• All children make consistent progressbased on their starting points. A very suc-cessful system to observe and record chil-dren's development is established whichenables staff to plan for children's nextsteps in learning.

• The dedicated and passionate staffteam provide a fully inclusive environment.The very effective organisation of resourc-es ensures children's enjoyment in boththe inside and outdoor environments.

• Effective daily routines prepare chil-dren extremely well for their move on toschool. Children have very regular oppor-tunities to visit the adjoining school. Theyoften meet and speak with teachers andchildren who have previously attended theplaygroup.

• Tracking of children's progress isrigorous and targeted. Any gaps in chil-dren's development are quickly identifiedand interventions are developed and put inplace.

• Parents are extremely complimentaryabout the playgroup and the staff.

Birstall Acorns Under 5's Playgroupwas registered in 1983. It is a committee-run organisation which operates from aself-contained room within the communitywing of Highcliffe school. The playgroupemploys eight members of childcare staff.Of these, all hold appropriate early yearsqualification at level 2 to 6, including themanager who holds Early Years Profes-sional status and Qualified Teacher Status.The playgroup opens from Monday toFriday term-time only. Sessions are from8.30am until 11.30am and 12.30pm until3.30pm. The playgroup provides fundedearly education for two-, three- and four-year-old children. For more informationvisit the Acorn websitewww.acornunderfives.co.uk.

A THIRD defibrillator forBirstall has been installedat the Mace store on Kings-gate Avenue.

Provided by Birstall Parish Council ata cost of £2000, the fully automaticdevice can be used by a member of thepublic to assist should someone collapsewith heart failure.

Chairman of Birstall Parish CouncilAnn Marshall said: “I’m really pleasedthat this third one has been installed,especially since there was a recent newsarticle about a man who collapsed inOadby and was saved because of a defi-brillator.”

Raj Patel, owner of the Mace store,said: “I’m happy to have the defibrillator

installed here, this part of the village isgetting bigger and if it can save some-body’s life, that’s great.”

The other two defibrillators are locat-ed at the Methodist church on Wanlip

Lane and on the School Lane playingfield car park behind the Village Hall.

The Parish Council has also organ-ised free first aid training sessions, thelatest being held on November 26.

SARA LORD ran the Leicesterhalf marathon in October forBirstall BAGS and has raised£1151.

A spokeswoman for the Birstallbased cancer charity said: “We are allvery proud of her achievement anddelighted with the donations, the gen-erosity of all our supporters is over-whelming. Sadly cancer touches nearlyall of us at some point, whether it’s afriend or family member, and BAGSwould like to promise you that we putall your hard earned money to gooduse in helping those who are in need.”

For more information on the chari-ty go to www.birstallbags.co.uk

Playgroup’stopmarks

Kingsgate defibrillator installed

Pic: Raj Patel and Anne Marshall beside the new defibrillator

Run forBAGS

S.L.MasonPROPERTY REPAIRS• Plastering• Painting• Joinery• Roofing

• Rendering• Decorating• Fencing• Tiling

30 Years Experience0116 2362752Mob: 07816 322575

email: [email protected]

28 STATION RD, CROPSTON

ALARMSDOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

BURGLAR ALARMSCCTV • Access Control • Fire Alarms

Established 25 years

Please Phone for aNO OBLIGATION QUOTE

ALL WORK GUARANTEED & CERTIFIED375 Loughborough Rd, Birstall

0116 267 3737Mob: 0785 066 2323

Data Cabling • Nurse Call SystemsUKAS Accredited • SSAIB Approved Installer

Page 16: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST16

WITH IT now being dark veryearly, we all need to be a lotmore alert and not make it easyfor opportunist burglars andthieves.

Sheds and garages should be madeas secure as possible and tools andladders should not be left out (unlessyour ladders are secured).

If you have high hedges and shrub-bery, now is an ideal time to cut themright back. High hedges and shrubs canshield a burglar from the view of passersby and make it a lot easier for them togain entry to your property. There aremany security items that are availableand timers for lamps are cheap andmake it look like someone is in.

If you are going to be out at nightplease close your curtains and leave alight on, don't make it obvious that you

are out. Security lights are a good ideaand need to be placed high on a wall toprevent a would be burglar tamperingwith it.

Christmas will soon be here andthere are many things that you can do toprevent a burglary. Please do not leavegifts on view, we have all seen curtainsopen and a huge pile of presents underthe tree. Another give away is leavingboxes out for recycling when you havebought yourself a new tv or laptop forexample. If you can, rip the box up andput it in the bottom of your recyclingbin. You can also get a second recyclingbin for free from Charnwood Council,ideal if you have a lot of recycling layingaround in bags.

Ideally you should remove all ad-dresses and personal details from mail,before you recycle it. Opportunist thievessometimes go through recycling lookingfor your details to steal your identity -don't make it easy for them!

Our next advice shops are December19 and January 16 (10am until 12, op-posite the garden centre on SibsonRoad) where you can have cycles codedfor free and buy security items at costprice. We wish you all a very happy andsafe Christmas.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Crime Report : Birstall & Wanlip, Oc-tober 2015

Assaults 6, burglary dwelling 3, dam-age 2, damage to motor vehicle 8, fraud1, public order 1, theft 11, theft cycle 1,theft from motor vehicle 7. theft fromstore 3

BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WIheld their AGM at HighcliffePrimary School on Novem-ber 2.

We recapped on the past year includ-ing all our outings, charity craft makingand outstanding skittles team. The Cente-nary Garden Party at Buckinghan Palacewas a highlight for Beverley and we arepleased to have adopted a Leicester longwool sheep given to us by our charityGorse Hill City Farm. As usual it hasbeen an action packed year with lotsmore planned for 2016. Most of the oldcommittee was voted back except forKath who has relinquished some of themany responsibilities involved in beingour secretary. We welcomed Liz in herplace. Kath, Rosalie and Val were pre-sented with flowers in appreciation oftheir work.

We are planning to see Oliver at theCurve and a Christmas dinner in Decem-ber. There is also a chance to visit theSandringham Christmas Fair.

Last month we were sampling localwine from Rothley's Kingfisher Vineyardand this month it was gin from North-ampton. Is there a pattern forming? Ourspeaker was Sion Edwards from WarnerEdwards distillery based at Falls Farmwho gave us an inspirational talk abouthis new and thriving gin making busi-ness.

We sampled his plain, elderflower,rhubarb and sloe flavoured gins. Theyare all made using local ingredients andtasted wonderful. He told us of the manyawards they are receiving and how theyare beginning to be stocked by some bignames on the High Street and no won-der! There were lots of pink faces andhappy smiles by the end of the night!

Our December meeting is on Decem-ber 7 when we will be making Christmascrafts and sharing Secret Santa gifts. Thebest craft item made on the night willwin the competition cup.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

NHW news& crime report REPORTED CRIME for October has

remained at the same level as inSeptember, with 43 offences be-ing reported during the month.

We have seen a slight rise in theftoffences this month, with both theft frommotor vehicle & ‘other theft’ offencesincreasing. This has been mainly due toseveral ‘drive-offs’ from the Shell PetrolStation (six in total) as well as due to anumber of vehicle number plate thefts, ofwhich we have had four. If possible,please consider fitting anti-theft screws toyour vehicle number plate to make thesemore difficult to steal.

Burglary dwelling has remained fairlylow again this month, which is obviouslygood news. I am also pleased to reportthat in relation to one of these, two malesfrom the West Midlands area have beenarrested and are currently on Police bailwhilst enquiries continue. An expensivevehicle stolen in the burglary was alsorecovered by Police, which is a goodresult.

Unfortunately we have had a couple ofincidents this month where buses havehad stones or rocks thrown at them,resulting in windows being damaged. Iam sure you will agree that this is both astupid & dangerous thing to do andwould urge anyone who witnesses thiskind of behaviour to take a description ofthe person(s) responsible and get intouch with us on 101, as if these inci-dents continue it will only be a matter oftime before someone is seriously injuredor a serious accident happens.

This said, the number of Anti-SocialBehaviour (ASB) incidents reported to uscontinues to fall, however we are continu-ing to work with a number of other agen-cies to address these issues, many ofwhich are unfortunately youth-related. Iam aware that young-people often get abad press these days and are blamed fora lot of ASB issues, however the fact re-mains that when we are called to theseincidents it is often young people who areresponsible. Please can I ask all parentsto remind their children about their be-haviour when out in public, so that wecan try and reverse the negative attitudethat a lot of adults seem to have aboutyoung people.

Thanks for reading and as alwaysplease remain vigilant and report anycrimes or suspicious activity to the Policeon 101. You can also contact your localNHW co-ordinator for advice on non-crime matters.

PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO’s 6611Mark Butler and 6391 Fiona Lacey.

NL60 – Birstall Police Office.http://www.leics.police.uk

Tel: 0116 2677355 (Please note this is anadvice line only – Please use 101 or 999 toreport crime).

WI news

BIRSTALL’S TESCO Expressstore on Sibson Road isinviting the local commu-nity to help them decoratethe store this Christmas.

“We would like to invite childrento make snow flakes, Santas, snow-men, robins or any other Christmasthemed picture and we will displaythem in the store” said a spokeswom-an.

She added: “The idea is to makethe store as cheery as possible whilsthaving fun and showing some of thetalent that the com-munity holds. Just getyour little ones todesign away anddrop it into Tescoat the tills orhand to a member ofstaff.”

P/15/2258/2: 48 Kiln, Orchard Way –erection of a single storey rear extensionextending beyond the rear wall of theoriginal house by 6m with a max height of3.380m and height to the eaves of 2.62mP/15/2158/2: 108 Curzon Avenue – erec-tion of two storey extension to side, sin-gle storey extension to rear and dormerextension to rear of dwelling (Revisedscheme P/15/0145/2 refers)

Planning

DecoratingTesco

BIRSTALL’S PREMIER TREE SERVICEJust like the rest of your property, have youconsidered your trees require a littlemaintenance from time to time?

...UNSAFE, TOO TALL OR UNTIDY

...BLOCKING LIGHT FROM YOUR HOME,OR YOUR NEIGHBOUR’S HOME

...LIKELY TO AFFECT YOUR PROPERTYSTRUCTURE

ARE YOUR TREES MAYBE?

With 20 years experience in all aspects of tree work wewould be pleased to offer you FREE expert advice & aFREE quotation without obligation

YOUR LOCALTREE SURGEON

PHONE NOW ON 0116 2505842

www.raktailorhomeimprovements.com

R.W.S.Plumbing & Heating

All Domestic PlumbingFull Central Heating

Boiler Swaps & UpgradesFully Fitted Bathrooms

Wall & Floor TilingALL WORK GUARANTEED

Local Business • Call Rob Scott:

Tel: 0116 2209311Mob: 0796 7695631

Advertise in

The birstall post47 x 59mm £26 • 47 x 120mm £4498 x 59mm £44 • 98 x 120mm £78

CALL 4422067 for an advertising rate card,or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk

The prices above exclude VAT

1) Decide what size you want2) Send us a sketch of your ad3) We design, publish

& sendyou thebill

SEXYWednesdays£26This Size

+VAT

Page 17: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 17

PUPILS AT Highcliffe prima-ry school raised £1300 forChildren in Need with a fun-draising event they organ-ised themselves.

The school hall was packed withstalls selling cakes, nail painting andoffering quizzes and games. Putting in aspecial appearance was Pudsey the bear.

Organiser Paula Clifford said: “I’venever seen such an amazing turnout. Itwas a great night enjoyed by all the kidswho loved dancing with Spiderman andNinja Turtle, Leonardo.”

The event featured auctions, cakestalls, games, face painting, nail paintingand a raffle, with an ipad donated byHastings Direct.

Paula said: “A huge thanks to BirstallSocial Club, Jackinthebox Hire, Kimmy’sFun Faces, Lisa’s Nails, Malcolm Den-ningberg for his Fantastic Hulk Stall,Graham Limmerick and everyone who

donated towards the raffles, prizes andauction. Also, all my friends and familyfor the time and effort they put into thenight, it was overwhelming!”

The event raised money for Jade’sRetreat and LOROS.Pic: at the cheque presentation to Jade’s Re-treat are (l-r) Lisa Kolade, Manny Sanghera,Paula Clifford, Jackie Ward, Donna Jordan andMichelle Clifford

A CHARITY EVENT at Birstall Social Club raised more than£5000.

YOUNG PEOPLE aged 8 andover are being invited tocome and enjoy the manyactivities at the BirstallYouth Café.

Located in the pavilion on the SchoolLane playing field and run by BirstallParish Council, the youth workers arekeen to welcome any newcomers.

A spokesman said: “If you wish tocome along and join in the fun, get yourparents to bring you down to the Youth

Café! We’re in the sports pavilion in themiddle of School Lane Playing Fields,your parents just need to sign you in

and collect you at the end of theevening, it only costs 50p entry fee!

“We have our own tuck shop, whichsells hot and cold drinks, chips, burgers,hot dogs and many other treats andsnacks. There are also many activities tobe enjoyed, such as: table tennis, airhockey, karaoke, arts & crafts, hair &beauty, sports & games, cooking andmany other things for you to do.”

Youth workers recently organised twonarrowboat trips and theyoung people enjoyednavigating the canal,sleeping on the boat andcooking their own meals.At Halloween they madepumpkin lanterns andare now preparing fortheir Christmas party onDecember 23.

During the summermonths there are out-door activities led byqualified sports coach-es.

The Youth Café isopen Wednesdayevenings, 6-8.30pmfor 8 to11 year oldsand Friday evenings,6-8.30pm for 11+year olds.

Come to the café!

Children in need

Bumper total at event

MDW FIREPLACES2a Wanlip Avenue, Birstall, LE4 4JP

0116 2676601 • www.mdwfireplaces.co.uk

Stoves, Fires, Fireplaces, Accessories & Installation

ElectricianRegistered part P

Fuse board upgradesGarage/Shed suppliesGarden/Security lightingExtensions • RewiresAdditional sockets/lightsLandlord certificates • P.A.T. testingAll work guaranteed

MectricElectrical Services

Jon BradshawHill Rise, Birstall, Leicester

0116 2108591 or 0780 8259437

Page 18: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

Women from Birstall and UpperBroughton gathered to play doubles,enjoy homemade cakes and have a bit offun.

A club spokesman said: “The sun wasshining and it proved to be a gloriousmorning atthe club,with £200raised forLOROS.Thanks toeveryonewho baked,donated,playedtennis, setup gazebosand helped out on the day.”

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST18

BIRSTALL & DISTRICT Art Society’sannual exhibition of paintings wasofficially opened by the Mayor ofCharnwood, Cllr John Capleton.

The Society’s 21st exhibition featured133 paintings and more than 300 visi-tors attended the three day event held inthe Village Hall.

“A variety of techniques were dis-played including watercolour, acrylics,oils and mixed media covering catego-ries from portraits, landscapes, animalsand flowers and abstract works” said asociety spokesman.

Artist Sue Wakerley won the NormanSims trophy for best in show, selected bythe judges at the preview evening. Othercategory winners were: Gemma Vissani,Michael Joyce, Mary Pepper, PaulineBrindley, Charlotte Stephenson, SylviaAlexander and Patricia Scaysbrook.

The exhibition raised £300 from araffle and quiz, which will be donated toLOROS and Rainbows.

LADIES DAY at Birstall Water-mead Tennis Club saw 25 wom-en enjoy a social morning oftennis.

A NEW £4million intensivecare unit is being built atGlenfield hospital.

It will be located in a two storeyextension near the front entrance atGlenfield, will have 11 beds, and isexpected to open in October 2016.

It will replace the intensive carefacilities at Leicester General Hospitaland is part of the University Hospitalsof Leicester NHS Trust’s plans tocreate two new super units at Glen-field and Leicester Royal Infirmary.

A report published earlier thisyear found that there were an insuffi-cient number of critically unwellpatients at the General to justify anintensive care unit. It will now have ahigh-dependency unit.

The expansion and transfer of theintensive care unit is part of a£320million development plan forLeicester’s hospitals over the next fewyears

It is also a component of the Bet-ter Care Together programme, whichis looking to shake up health servicesacross Leicestershire.

Other changes include a new A&Edepartment and an outpatient and daycare centre at the General or Glen-field.

HIGHCLIFFE PRIMARY schoolhas made some new appoint-ments to its leadership team.

Scott Fewster has been appointedto the post of Executive Head Teacherfor Highcliffe and Riverside PrimarySchools. Mr Fewster is currently aHead Teacher in Leicestershire andworked in a number of schools. Hewill start in January 2016.

Katherine Renshaw has been ap-pointed as Head of School at High-cliffe and will be responsible for therunning of the school on a daily basisas well as leading teaching and learn-ing and raising standards at theschool.

“She brings wider leadership andteaching experience as well a s goodunderstanding of the locality. Wewarmly welcome both Scott and Kath-erine to the Lionheart AcademiesTrust” said a spokesman from theschool.

TWO BROTHERS from Birstallwon £15,000 and a holidayto Thailand after appearingon a TV game show.

Tim and Rob Clare appeared onChannel 4’s Deal or No Deal whichwas broadcast on Wednesday Novem-ber 4 but filmed in May.

Tim (27) and Rob (26) are plan-ning to fly out to Thailand in Januaryor February next year.

Socialtennismorning

Good deal

Schoolleaders

New unit

Exhibition

SERVICING & REPAIRS to all makes of vehicle

FOR A FAST & FRIENDLY SERVICE

Call 0116 2677401

Unit 8, 59 Sibson Rd, Birstall (rear of Posy Bowl)

All Major Credit &Debit Cards Accepted MOT’sarranged

• Cambelts fitted• Specialist in Engine

Management faultfinding

• All electrical work &wiring faults undertaken

K . M . V E H I C L E S E R V I C E S

www.kmvehicleservicesbirstall.co.uk

The ideal venue for forWeddings • Parties

Christenings etcLarge Function Room with use of Kitchen

Separate bar for that quiet moment

The Midlands Co-OperativeSports & Social Club

Birstall Road

Car Park with CCTV coverageDisabled facilities

Mid Week Functions takenGive us a call at Birstall Rd on

2674059 or 07806 693292

An EnergyPerformance

Certificate (EPC)is still required if youare selling or renting

out your house.

Call David Jackson on0781 5519490

to arrange your EPC

M&G PlumbingServices

All Plumbing& Heating work

undertaken

0116 267790507834 600384

Sycamore Rd, Birstall

Page 19: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST 19

chair of the Wolverhampton & Shrews-bury Circuit) next August. The ‘Station-ing’ process is quite complex, especiallyas there are more vacancies in churchesthan there are Methodist Ministers. Thepresent thinking is that the Circuit maybe allocated a Probationer Minister, anewly appointed Minister with responsi-bilities for Rothley & Birstall, and RevdDave Warnock, based at Syston, wouldtake responsibility for the other fourchurches and become Superintendent.In the longer term talks are in progressto link the Leicester North Circuit withLeicester Trinity Circuit.

From Birstall Methodist Church

AdventHave you lit your Advent candle yet?

By the time you read this, when we’vebeen subjected to weeks of TV adverts(often with jingles set to the tunes ofreal Christmas carols), we are at last inthe season of Advent (the “coming” ofthe baby Jesus into the world) whichstarted on November 29. The lighting ofthe candle every day from Advent Sundayto Christmas Eve is one of the fewChristmas customs, which has not beentainted by commercialism and onewhich gives children much pleasure.Another event, especially enjoyed bychildren, is the Christingle service, at StJames at 10am on Sunday December 6,reminding us all that there is anotherside to Christmas for the less fortunatein our world. On the same day theScouts and Guides have their annualCarol Service at 3pm at St James.Can the children teach us something?

Perhaps as a parent or grandparentyou are invited to view a Nativity play atyour offspring’s school, and view theChristmas story with misty eyes, as thechildren act out the holy birth and singthe favourite carols. So why not re-kin-dle your own inner child and join us atWanlip for a Carol Service by candle-light, with readings, on Sunday 13th at6pm, or come to informal “Carols roundthe tree” at 7.30pm on Monday 14?There will be plenty of opportunity forjoining in and singing.

At St James on Wednesday December16 at 7.30pm, the informal “Carols forAll” will give you a chance for yourvoice be heard in celebration (andno-one will mind if you can’t sing intune!). Seasonal refreshments will beon offer at all these events.So what’s it all about?

Perhaps one of the most popular,and for many people most meaningful,Christmas services at St. James is thefamily Crib service at 4pm on ChristmasEve, when children are invited to come

dressed as angels, shepherds or kings.Christmas Eve Communion at 11pm isfor many the heart of Christmas and, fora while, all the hype and meaninglessfrivolity are forgotten.

Finally, a sardonic verse to ponderon:

How curious is the Christmas card:Victorian inventionTo celebrate the birth of Christ,Who scarcely gets a mention!A very Happy and Peaceful Christmas

to all in Birstall and Wanlip, from theclergy and people of the two parishchurches!

From Birstall Parish Churches

Christmas Services At The MethodistChurch

The Christmas Nativity Story will betold at the Nativity Service at 10.30am onSunday December 20, a service that willinclude a Baptism. In the evening at6pm there will be the traditional Candle-light Carol Service. Revd Rachel Parkin-son will lead both services.

On Christmas Eve, there is to be an‘open church’ from 4pm to 6pm. At11.15pm Revd Dave Warnock will leadMidnight Communion.

Christmas Morning service, which is afamily service, will be led by RevdRachel Parkinson.The Giants Are Back

The Giant Puppets will be out againthis year, on Friday December 4 at theBirstall Christmas Lights Switch- On, atthe Sibson Road Car Park, and again onSaturday 5th when they will take part inthe Leicester Cathedral Christingle serv-ice.Methodist Changes

The six Methodist churches (three inBelgrave, plus Syston, Rothley & Bir-stall), which form the ‘Leicester NorthCircuit’ are currently looking for a newMethodist Minister to replace RevdRachel Parkinson (who moves to be

Christmas MarketEarly December is the time for

Christmas shopping and there will be theusual Christmas Market in the VillageHall on Friday December 4 as part ofthe celebrations for switching on theChristmas lights. Doors open between4.30pm and 7.30pm BIBC will have astall to sell craft items together withoriginal-design Christmas cards, allmade by the people at the Lodge Trustat Market Overton, Rutland. This is aChristian charity which provides careand training for adults with learningdifficulties. There will also be somecalendars and Christmas books (mainlyfor children). We do hope that you willcome along and support this worthwhilecharity.Carol Service

Our traditional Carol Service will beheld on Sunday December 13 in theCommunity Room at Highcliffe PrimarySchool, Greengate Lane (LE4 3DL) andbegin at 10.45am. The speaker is DrSimon Harrison, who will give a shorttalk on the meaning of Christmas. Theservice, which lasts about an hour, willbe followed by tea/coffee and time for achat. Please come along and join us:you will be most welcome.Sunday Services

Our usual Sunday morning servicesare also held at Highcliffe and start at10.45am. We are not able to use theschool premises during holiday periods,so please ring for venue for December27 and January 3. We are scheduled toreturn to the Community Room on Sun-day January 10, 2016. See next issue ofthe Post for details of new evening serv-ices. Please note that there is a SundaySchool available for youngsters agedseven to twelve during the sermon partof the service if requested.

All at BIBC wish you a very happyChristmas.

For further information please ring0116 2214883.

From Anne Taylor, Birstall In-dependent Baptist Church

News from the churches

THE POLICE are appealingfor information followinga spate of criminal dam-age in the village.

Incidents of stones being thrown atbuses, houses and cars, and criminaldamage to motor vehicles, have beenreported to police.

Birstall Beat Officer PC David Jae-ckels said: “Overnight [Nov 11/12] wereceived a number of reports aboutbuses, cars and house windows beingdamaged by stones being thrown atthem. To date we have received 12reports from residents of Loughbor-ough Road, Poplar Avenue, BeechfieldAvenue and Sibson Road.

“From the descriptions we havebeen given we believe that localyouths are responsible for these mind-less and dangerous acts and we arecurrently reviewing all the reports andfollowing up on any lines of enquirythat we have.

“At this time no arrests have beenmade and we would ask anyone withinformation to get in touch with us.”

The local policing team can becontacted on 101, to leave a messagefor PC Jaeckels, his collar number is1759.

facebook : loughboroughpolicetwitter : @charnwoodpolice

A YOUNG person who wasclimbing on the roof of StJames’s church in Birstall haspaid for the damage he did toa skylight window.

Police were called to the churchon Tuesday September 15 at 6pm bya resident who had seen someoneclimbing on the roof.

Two young people were caught atthe scene and a third was identified –all were taken home by police totheir parents and spoken to.

The boy who damaged the windowpaid £55 for repairs and after thePolice consulted the churchwarden,all three of them spent some timeworking in the churchyard – varnish-ing a seat and tidying up. All threewere 13 years of age.

Criminaldamage

Damagerepaired

Help us in our work helpingothers less fortunate than

ourselves

All gifts and donations gladlyaccepted at the

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION19 FRONT STREET • BIRSTALL

or Ring 2674817

NOT SELF”“SERVICE

Odd Job ManThe

No Job Too SmallGardening • Slabbing

Painting • House Painting

Gutters Cleared

FREE QUOTES • CALL HARRY

0116 267470324hr answerphone

9 Kedlestone Ave, Birstall

Advertise in

The birstall post47 x 59mm £26 • 47 x 120mm £4498 x 59mm £44 • 98 x 120mm £78

CALL 4422067 for an advertising rate card,or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk

The prices above exclude VAT

1) Decide what size you want2) Send us a sketch of your ad3) We design, publish

& sendyou thebill

SEXYWednesdays£26This Size

+VAT

Page 20: Birstall Post (389) December 2015

DEC 2015THE BIRSTALL POST20

Cancer ResearchCancer is a general term used to de-

scribe over 200 different types of the dis-ease. This broad variation means it isunlikely ‘one drug’ or ‘one single treat-ment’ will be found to cure the ‘cancer’. Itis more likely, through medical research,that small incremental improvements inwhat drugs and treatment achieve willresult in better survival and quality oflife for those diagnosed.Clinical Trials

Medical research stud-ies involving people arecalled clinical trials. Theyare divided into differentstages, called phases. Theearliest phase trials maylook at whether a drug issafe or the side effects itcauses. A later phase trialaims to test whether a newtreatment is better than existingtreatments.

Phase 1 are usually small trials, recruit-ing only a few patients. The trial may beopen to people with any type of cancer.

When laboratory testing shows that a newtreatment might help treat cancer, phase 1trials are done to find out

• How much of the drug is safe to give• What the side effects are• How the body copes with the drug• If the treatment shrinks the cancerPhase 2 trials may be for people who

all have the same type of cancer orfor people who have different

types of cancer. Not alltreatments tested in aphase 1 trial makeit to a phase 2trial. Phase 2 trialsaim to find out

• If the newtreatment workswell enough to testin a larger phase 3

trial• Which types of

cancer the treatment works for• More about side effects and

how to manage them• More about the best dose to usePhase 3 trials compare new treatments

with the best currentlyavailable treatment.They involve manymore patients thanphase 1 or 2. This isbecause differences insuccess rates may besmall. So, the trialneeds many patients tobe able to show thedifference. (the stand-ard treatment).Thesetrials may compare

• A completely newtreatment with thestandard treatment

• Different doses orways of giving a stand-ard treatment

• A new way ofgiving radiotherapywith the standard way

Phase 4 trials aredone after a drug hasbeen shown to work

and has been granted a licence. The mainreasons for running phase 4 trials are tofind out

• More about the side effects and safetyof the drug

• What the long term risks and benefitsare

• How well the drug works when it’sused more widely

Most phase 3 trials, and some phase 2trials, are randomised. This means thatthere are at least 2 different groups in thetrial and people taking part are put intoone or other group at random. This 'ran-domisation' is usually done by a computer.Each group in the trial has a differenttreatment. This random decision of whoreceives the research drug can sometimesbe off putting to patients when decidingwhether or not to take part. Regardless ofwhich group patients are assigned to tak-ing part usually means the patient will bevery closely monitored and any concernabout poor response to treatment or sideeffects are spotted promptly and treatmentadjusted to ensure the patient receives thebest available care even if this means leav-ing the clinical trial. Taking part in aclinical trial is always voluntary.

The University Hospitals of Leicester runa number of Cancer Clinical Trials mostlythrough the HOPE unit based at the Leices-ter Royal Infirmary. For more informationabout the trials they have available pleasevisit www.hfcr.org

For further information:www.cancerresearchuk.org and as always

University Hospitals of Leicester CancerInformation Centre on 0116 258 6189

For more information on the funds wehave raised, projects we support and forth-coming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk

Contact the BAG’s by [email protected]

Birstall BAG’s Registered CharityNumber 1160190

Birstall BAG’s are establishing a HomeVisiting Service in collaboration withLOROS and initially we are looking to re-cruit LOROS volunteers from the Birstalland surrounding area willing to supportfamilies in their own home in our commu-nity – for more information please contactAndrew [email protected] tel 01162318470

Tickets for the Ceri Dupree evening arenow completely sold out. If you have or-dered tickets please collect and pay ASAP.

TELEPHONE EXTENSION Socketsfitted by ex-BT engineer. Cable,BT and digital TV. Over 25 yrs ex-perience. John 2675132, mob:077 91788331

AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consul-tancy. Plans drawn and submitted.Extensions, conversions, newbuild. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons)FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395 /07974807111www.amlidesign.co.ukBirstall BAG’s cancer corner

Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us orhand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library.

Trade/business rates for small ads are 25pa word. You are liable for the trade/businessrate if you are offering a service for which youare asking for payment, or if you are advertis-ing new goods for sale. All text will be printedbold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words.Phone numbers count as one word.

Small Ads

THE BIRSTALL POSTYOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Unit 109, Greenacres,The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR

Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson

Editorial/Advertising

0116 4422067Correspondence, news etc

can be handed in at:Birstall Library or to our office:

Unit 109, Greenacres, The SidingsLeicester LE4 3BR,

[email protected]

Merry Christmas!

To all our readers & advertisers from us all at

Merry Christmas!

THE BIRSTALL POST

The January issue ofTHE BIRSTALL POST

will be published on Jan 9.The copy deadline is Dec 18.

proSP CSeyewear

at the best pricesQuality spectacles

visit our showroom

GET A QUOTE FROM US BEFORE YOU BUY YOUR NEXT PAIR OF SPECTACLESSame day service on most plastic lenses

Unit 3,Victoria MillsFowke St,RothleyEasy Parking

Top quality lenses including Varilux, Nikon, Zeiss

Contact Mike or Teresa Keily on 0116 237 6098DESIGNERFRAMES

www.tebbatt-electronics.co.ukTEBBATT ELECTRONICS

Washing MachinesTumble DryersDishwashersRefrigeration

MicrowavesVacuum Cleaners Built-in Appliances

The Crossroads, Thurcaston 0116 2362333

Home

Installation

& After Sales

Service

Free 5 Year Warrantyon the latest models of selected Panasonic Televisions

TelevisionLCD • PlasmaDVD recordersDigital Radio

• Sales, Repairs & Upgrades• Wired & Wireless Networking• Branded & Custom Built PCs• Laptops, printers, peripherals & accessories• Server Installation & Support• On-site Maintenance & Remote Support• Original & Compatible Cartridges/Toners• Buy Dell products through our store

C o v e r i n g L e i c e s t e r s h i r e0116 2672583

Mob: 0796 7 191975www.ntlcomputers.co.uk

3 The Meadway, Birstall LE4 4NG

Advertise in

The birstall post47 x 59mm £26 • 47 x 120mm £4498 x 59mm £44 • 98 x 120mm £78

CALL 4422067 for an advertising rate card,or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk

The prices above exclude VAT

1) Decide what size you want2) Send us a sketch of your ad3) We design, publish

& sendyou thebill

SEXYWednesdays£26This Size

+VAT