MOUNTSORREL
Petrol POST station raided
YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
DECEMBER 2012
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 41
THIEVES THREATENED a member of staff before stealing cash and other items from Budgen’s petrol station. The robbery happened at about 3.50am on Tuesday November 20. Two men, who were both wearing balaclavas, took alcohol, cigarettes and cash from the garage before leaving in a black Honda CRV and driving off towards the A6. Detective Constable Dave Rock, the investigating officer, said: “Thankfully the member of staff was not hurt, but they were understandably shaken the threats made by the two men. “At the time of the incident the victim Pic: The winners of the 2012 Ripples awards with organisers (far right) Anne Gregory & Ian Shonk
Continued on page 3
Community awards say: thank you THE FIRST Annual Ripples Awards dinner took place recently at the Slate restaurant in Mountsorrel. Seven local people, who had been nominated by their friends or colleagues for adding something to the life of Mountsorrel, met for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a meal and awards ceremony. The ‘Ripples’ Awards are planned to be an annual event, giving people a chance to say “thank you” to those who make Mountsorrel a better place. The scheme is the idea of Ian Shonk who owns Sign Shop & Anne Gregory, who runs Anne Gregory Holistics. They moved into Mountsorrel in 2009 and were looking for a way to ‘put something back’ into their community. Organising and funding the Awards Evening seemed an ideal way to achieve this. Anne said: “The bonus is that if you put a group of community minded people together in the same room, all sorts of new ideas and contacts get formed. We had new plans and projects being discussed all around the dinner table.” This year’s winners each received a glass vase with the Ripples logo as a memento of the evening. The 2012 winners were: June Wakeling – Services to the Youth
Club Louisa Matthews – Entertainment and Events organiser Mick Lemon – Services to the Cricket Club Neville Wilkinson – Long service to many groups within the village Pat Neal – Commitment to village life and the Heritage Society
Lindens demolished for homes? THE LINDENS pub on Halstead Road could be demolished and replaced with nine homes. Everards brewery has submitted a planning application for five fourbedroom and four three-bedroom homes.
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Mountsorrel Parish Council have objected to the plans as it would result in the loss of an amenity for residents. The planning application reference is P/12/2194/2. Details can be viewed here www.tinyurl.com/ct85htp
Steve Cramp – Project leader, the Mountsorrel Railway Project Ian Shonk said: “Out thanks go to all our winners and their guests, for not only making a successful evening but for adding to the life of Mountsorrel in so many different ways.” Nominations for ‘Ripples 2013’ will be open from June next year. Watch local press for details.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2012
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MOUNTSORREL POST
3
DEC 2012
Group campaigns against development A DECISION on a major development on the edge of Mountsorrel is expected in January. Charnwood Borough Council will be considering a planning application from developers William Davis for 250 dwellings and a new primary school on land east of Mountsorrel Lane and south of Walton Way, in the parish of Rothley. The proposal would also make available the property at 149 Mountsorrel Lane for a
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Book provides insight into village history DECEMBER SEES the publication of a new book giving an insight into the industrial and social history of Mountsorrel. Memories of Stone, Steam and Steel, has taken 18 months to research and write and is a joint project between the Mountsorrel Heritage Group and Glassball Arts Projects (GAP). The Heritage Lottery funded book is 120 pages long and features rare photographs from personal family and business archives, the Lafarge Mountsorrel Collection, and extracts from the many oral history interviews conducted over the cause of the project with local people. Cora Glasser from GAP said: “The book wonderfully captures various aspects of the industrial and social history of Mountsorrel. “It is not an exhaustive text on the
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village, but a collection of insightful glimpses and personal reflections into the working lives of past and present residents of Mountsorrel.” The book was launched at a special event held at Mountsorrel library on December 10. It is available for sale online at www.glassball.org.uk Cora said: “On behalf of GAP, I would like to thank all those who have taken part in this project. It would not have been possible without the support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the generous amount of time volunteered by the members of the Mountsorrel Heritage Group and the young people of Mountsorrel.”
"
Continued from page 1 waved to the driver of a white van that was passing. We are appealing directly to that driver to come forward. If you drive a white van and normally take that route to or from work then please think back. Were you in the area that day? Did you see anything suspicious? If so please call police immediately. “Although it was very early in the morning we are hopeful that someone out there will be able to help us. Did you see the incident? Did you see the car described in the area? Do you know who is responsible? If so please get in touch.” Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact DC 1718 Dave Rock 101, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 1718. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.
doctor’s surgery with additional parking, and provide a link road from Mountsorrel Lane to the old A6. An action group, the Rothley-Mountsorrel Green Belt preservation group, has been formed to campaign against the plans. Its members are concerned about the loss of separation between Rothley and Mountsorrel, building on open countryside on land that floods and road safety. Rothley Parish Council are objecting to the plans and Mountsorrel Parish Council has raised objections about the housing on the north side encroaching on the area of separation between the two villages, lack of parking at the surgery and school, lack of play areas and traffic congestion at peak times. The Campaign to Protect Rural England are objecting to the proposal, and Leicestershire Police have submitted a detailed costing of the impact the development would have on Police resources. In its published response to the plans, Michael Lambert for Leicestershire Police states: “the proposed development will increase the Rothley population by about 21%. It is not unreasonable to expect that there will be a corresponding increase in crime and demand from new residents for Policing services … a contribution [from the developer] of £119,302 is sought on this basis.” The planning application is P/12/2005/2. Details can be seen here www.tinyurl.com/c3vc4yn
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2012
Autumn charity fair
PHOTOS: CLIVE RASIN
4
OUR PICTURES show some of the stalls at the 50th autumn charity fair, held at the Memorial Hall on November 10. The event was opened by the Rev Kerry Emmett of Christ Church & St Peter’s, and visitors found out about the many local charities in the village and volunteering opportunities. Pics: (clockwise from top left) Age Concern, Townswomen’s Guild, Boys’ Brigade, Baptist Church
to ngs i v a e S brat Cele
Christmas Food Ordering Wishing all customers old and new a
Merry Christmas & a Happy
STORE OPENING TIMES 23rd December 7.30am - 9.00pm Christmas Eve 6.00am - 6.00pm Christmas Day: PETROL STATION & STORE OPEN 8.00am - 4.00pm Boxing Day 9.00am - 6.00pm 27th December 9.00am - 6.00pm 28th December 7.30am - 9.00pm 29th December 7.30am - 9.00pm 30th December 7.30am - 9.00pm New Years Eve 7.30am - 6.00pm New Years Day 10.00am - 4.00pm
New Year
Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on July 9. Charnwood Borough Councillor Leigh Harper-Davies requested that it be minuted that she and fellow councillor John Capleton gave their total support to the Parish Council regarding planning applications and were against the claim from the Parish Council that they do nothing. In respect of the Halstead Road application they had attended a meeting and opposed the application and had responded to the William Davis application via the Borough Council’s website. It was reported that the Youth Development Group’s fun day was cancelled because of the weather but the programme of sports activities went ahead. As Parish Councillor Ms Elizabeth Watson had not attended a Parish Council meeting in six months and had not responded to letters from the clerk, she is automatically disqualified. The clerk was instructed to take steps for the appointment of a new councillor. The Council has received a letter signed by 18 young people about Halstead Road playing field. The Council agreed to meet with them on site to discuss their ideas. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on September 10. Winners of the best kept front garden competition were presented with their prizes. The Council agreed to continue progressing its Joint Neighbourhood plan with Rothley Parish Council. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on October 8. It was reported that Charnwood Borough Council are investigating the Mountsorrel car boot sale regarding an alleged breach of planning conditions. Mrs P Maguire was co-opted to fill the vacancy on the Parish Council. The Council agreed to award a Certificate of Commendation to volunteers of the Mountsorrel Railway Project and its founder, Mr Steve Cramp.
MOUNTSORREL POST
Jewellery stolen in burglary
DEC 2012
5
Front garden winners OUR PICTURES show some of the winners in the Best Kept Front Garden competition, organised annually by Mountsorrel Parish Council.
JEWELLERY WAS stolen from a house on Cloud Lea during a burglary in November. The incident took place sometime between 7.30pm on Sunday November 18 and 11.30pm on Monday November 19, on Cloud Lea when a house was broken into and a large number of items were stolen. A number of items of jewellery were stolen including an 8” long 9 carat gold bracelet in a thick rope design, a number of earrings, bracelets and chains. A gold charm bracelet which had five charms on it including a heart shape with diamantes, a solid gold horse head, a Scorpio symbol, a gold flower with amethyst gem stone set in the centre and a gold galloping horse was also stolen. PC Lucy Page is investigating the incident. She said: “Some of the items of jewellery stolen are of great sentimental value to the victims and they are keen to get them back. If you know anything about the incident or the stolen items please contact us. A transit style van was seen acting suspiciously in the area during the morning of Tuesday November 20 and we would like to speak to anyone who saw the vehicle or its occupants.” Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact PC 4011 Lucy Page on 101, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number 4011. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers which is free and anonymous on 0800 555 111.
The winners in 2012 were; • Hanging baskets and window boxes: 1. Mrs Lanning, 11 Blue Granite Caravan Park 2. Mr & Mrs Clifford, 6 Blue Granite Caravan Park 3. Mrs L B Beck, 1 Blue Granite Caravan Park • Small gardens: 1. Mr & Mrs Cope, 27 The Romans 2. Mrs K Kissane-Rogers, 1 Glenfrith Gardens 3. Mr & Mrs White, 74 Rockhill Drive
The March issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Feb 23. The copy deadline is Feb 8.
Local plan now includes 2000 homes PLANS TO build 2000 homes and an employment site on land north of Birstall have moved a step closer. In September Charnwood Borough Council’s cabinet agreed to include the site in its Local Plan Core Strategy. This will set out the areas for development in the Borough that are required to meet Government targets for housing and employment. The detailed plan will not be ready until March 2013 when it will be considered by the cabinet. The development will occupy the former Bentleys Roses site. Charnwood’s report into the proposals, prepared by the Strategic Director of Housing, Planning and Regeneration Cllr Matthew Blain, states that: • the site will be highly attractive to investors due to direct access to the strategic road network • it provides an opportunity to locate new jobs with new homes • the A46 is likely to be a major barrier to integration with Birstall [the site is in the Parish of Wanlip] • the development will have a “moderate” impact on the settlement separation of Birstall, Rothley and Wanlip that can be “mitigated through master planning”. • potential for some impact on the
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• Large gardens: 1. Mr & Mrs Spiers, 23 Kenilworth Close 2. R & Mrs Heemskerk, 29 Kingfisher Road 3. Mr & Mrs Lea, 27 Carisbrooke Road • Business premises: 1. The Mountsorrel Guest House, 217 Loughborough Road 2. Rose Cottage Rest Home, 136 Rothley Road 3. The Waterside Inn, Sileby Road
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2012
Track reaches Mountsorrel and new path created THE AWARD winning Mountsorrel Railway Project continues to lay track in its efforts to restore a section of disused railway that links Mountsorrel to the GCR near to Swithland reservoir. “Project volunteers have been busy over the last few weeks and track laying now stretches all the way to Nunckley Hill” said project leader Steve Cramp. “If you look over the granite railway bridge at the top of Halstead Road you can now see the railway. By early December track should pass through the bridge and back into Mountsorrel Parish.” A four minute long video of a ride along the restored Mountsorrel Railway is now available on Youtube at the following link www.tinyurl.com/clto9ak Track laying will continue early in the New Year with the intention of reaching the end of the line at Bond Lane during February. Steve said: “New volunteers are still needed to help with track laying as the process requires at least 20 able bodied people at anyone time. If you think you would like to help on an occasional Saturday please get in touch. With the railway soon to be completed you'll be
able to look back in years to come and say "I helped to do that!” A big thanks goes to Mountsorrel quarry who have donated a further 500 tonnes of ballast and thanks to help from the Great Central
Railway, most of the laid track is now top ballasted and almost ready for trains to run.” The Mountsorrel Railway Ecology Group have also been hard at work creating a new foot path called the Nunckley Trail. “This will be a half mile long circular nature/history trail through the woodland south of the Mountsorrel Railway at Nunckley Hill. The path will start and end close to the Halstead Road/Swithland Lane road junction. The
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Pics:(top) track laying and (inset) children at a Wildlife Warrior event
route of the path has been carefully planned to take in points of ecological and historical interest. The Dob Hall ruins are in this area and the trail passes through them. “The path will be edged with logs so will be suitable for the visually impaired. We are also trying to keep the route wheel chair friendly or at least mobility scooter friendly. “They'll be a picnic and viewing area over looking he railway and the hope is to have the
“All this is being constructed at zero cost thanks to the hard work or our volunteer team although we are hoping to attract a small grant to fund the creation of information boards along the path to highlight areas of interest. “More than half of the path has already been completed but the group needs additional volunteers to help finish the route. The team primarily consists of children of all ages and their parents, if you would like to get involved with the Mountsorrel Railway Project but track laying isn't your thing, then volunteering your time to help create the Nunckley Trail could be an ideal way of getting involved.” Children were recently involved in a Wildlife Warrior event, building hedgehog hibernation houses and making their own teasel hedgehogs to take home. If you would like to help the Mountsorrel Railway please get in touch with the project leader Steve Cramp by email steve@mountsorrelrailway.org.uk
trail open to the public free of charge on the days that the railway is operating.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
Help needed at café THE SORRELL Youth Café on the Green is looking to build on its success by expanding some of its current activities and introducing a number of new initiatives. Since the success of its summer programme the Sorrel Youth Café has seen a steady increase in young people visiting and using its facilities. Recent changes in the timetables for both Rawlins and Humphrey Perkins schools has left a gap for developing the Café’s activities for its younger customers. Graham Lloyd, the Café’s Youth Officer said: “The changes have meant that our older visitors are not getting to us until about 4.45pm but they are then returning for the evening session. This has opened up a great opportunity to cater for the younger age group leaving primary school at 3.15pm However in order to develop the right activities we are in desperate need of new volunteers.” The Café is now looking for volunteers to work with it to develop their 3.30-5.30pm opening slot. Graham added: “We are always looking for new volunteers, but we are particularly interested in people who are prepared to sit with the younger customers, undertake craft activities, perhaps work with them around their reading and writing and of course play board games with them.” Alongside the normal youth provision, the Café is now offering another opportunity aimed at young parents and their babies. Brunch’n’Babies aims to be a community resource but also to provide a training opportunity for unemployed young people in Mountsorrel. Graham said: “This is another unique opportunity that uses the café to great advantage. We are looking for three unemployed young people who are under 21 and interested in catering and learning how to run a small business. We have appointed a temporary catering team leader and the café opened for business on October 1 between 9.30and 11.30am.” If successful the Café is seeking to expand its daytime opening times to cater for more community groups. It would welcome interest from anyone who is interested in helping out and particularly unemployed young people who want to gain some catering related experience and qualifications. The Café is now developing its autumn and winter programme and welcomes ideas from the Mountsorrel community. www.sycafe.org 0116 2375289
DEC 2012
7
Householder fined after rubbish dumped A RESIDENT is counting the cost of paying a “white van man” to get rid of waste from her home. Shilpa Jobanputra, of Loughborough Road, Birstall, pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on October 26, 2012, to a fly-tipping charge. Charnwood Borough Council enforcement officers were called in March 2012 to investigate a pile of waste that had been dumped outside the gates of a company in Mountsorrel. Officers scoured the pile, which included 30 black bin bags, a TV, cardboard boxes and clothing, and found letters, payslips and bills addressed to Jobanputra. They contacted Jobanputra who told officers she did not know she had committed an offence and expressed her remorse. She said she paid £50 for a “white van man” to take the waste from her property after receiving a flyer through her letterbox. She presumed they would take the waste to the tip and failed to check whether the company had a Waste Carri-
Jelson appeal DEVELOPERS JELSON are appealing the refusal of their planning application to build 315 homes off Halstead Road. Charnwood Borough Council refused permission in April 2012, saying the development would harm the character of the landscape, is not sustainable in terms of transport and access to services, is too close to Mountsorrel quarry, would have a harmful environmental impact and be detrimental to highway safety. Jelson appealed the decision, and the date for the appeal inquiry was set for November 27, 2012. In October, both Jelson and Charnwood requested a postponement. The appeal will now be considered by the Planning Inspectorate in late February or early March 2013. Advertise in the
MOUNTSORREL POST 47 x 59mm £23 • 47 x 120mm £41 98 x 59mm £41 • 98 x 120mm £69
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Pic: the dumped rubbish
er’s Licence, which any waste disposal tradesperson is required to hold by law. Householders are legally required to ensure tradespeople they pay have a Waste Carrier’s Licence. Failure to do so is an offence. Councillor Jane Hunt, the Council’s Cabinet member for Regulatory Services, said: “Our Don’t Muck Around campaign is trying to raise awareness of Duty of Care offences. Please check that the people you pay to remove waste from your property have a Waste Carrier’s Licence. Don’t fall foul of this offence.”
Jobanputra was fined £75 by the Court and ordered to make a contribution of £100 towards the Council's investigation and enforcement costs, plus a £15 victim surcharge. For more information about the Don’t Muck Around campaign or to report a fly-tip, contact 01509 634564 or email cleaner.greener@charnwood.gov.uk. Also visit www.facebook.com/dontmuck The March issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Feb 23. The copy deadline is Feb 8.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2012
YOUR SAY... Noticeboard all details printed free Healthy exercise, good fun, great music and new friends try
Scottish Dancing
The Mountsorrel Post welcomes your views and opinions on any subject. Letters, which must include your name and address, (though not necessarily for publication) can be posted to: The Mountsorrel Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH, or handed in at Mountsorrel library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk
Like it was ‘Twas the night before Christmas Not too long ago When the streets of the town Were all covered in snow No rain filled the gutters No wind shook the tree The trains were on time And the traffic ran free But still though we’re warmed By those global effects And programmes on telly Are all about sex We’ve managed to cling to The hopes and the joys That we had when we were Little girls, little boys When Dad gave my Mum A new perfume called ‘Heaven’ And Westlife was something You found down in Devon There were nuts and Satsumas Roast goose and high teas Instead of Nigella Cell phones and CDs But in spite of the changes The fastness of life Through it all shines the tale Of a man and his wife
Monday evenings at Avenue Road School, Knighton 7.30 - 10pm Tuesday afternoons at Holy Cross Centre, Wellington Street 1.30 3.45pm Thursday evenings at Holy Cross Centre, Wellington Street 7.30 10pm Qualified teachers, don’t need partner, first session free of charge
Christmas Festival at St Leonard’s Church, Swithland Saturday December 8 from 10am to 5pm Refreshments all day
The Baldwin Trust A local charity that runs narrow boats for the disabled, special needs, elderly and community groups is looking for a Secretary This is a voluntary position and would suit a retired person, with good communication and computer skills Could you be the person we are looking for? Contact: Glenda Townsend 01116 2301731 If you have any queries please do not hesitate to give me a call Churches Together in Birstall & Wanlip Monday December 31 8.30pm onwards at Birstall Village Hall A traditional
New Year’s Evening Party Party games, quizzes, dancing, shared buffet supper, bring your own drinks Tickets @ £2 each, from the three churches or tel: 0116 2672606 Charnwood Orchestra
They journeyed at night Through darkness and danger To give birth to a Son In a dusty old manger From Peggy Clarke
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Annual Strauss concert January 19 at Humphrey Perkins
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School, Barrow-upon-Soar, Leics at 7pm The programme will consist of all the popular music by the Strauss family and others Tickets £10 (£8 concessions), £3 for accompanied children under 16 Available from 07718 153117 or by emailing judithrodgers155@gmail.com and from members of the orchestra There will be an interval bar selling wine, Castle Rock Real Ale and fruit juice Book your tickets early as this is a very popular event! Mountsorrel Community Action Group
Christmas Craft & Festive Walk Event Thursday December 13 Sorrel Youth Café, The Green Craft session 9.30-11.30am, £1.20 Afternoon walk 1.30pm, starting from the Youth Café and followed by hot drinks and mince pies Open to all
Café Christmas events THE SORREL Youth Café is preparing three events this December to celebrate Christmas with the Mountsorrel community. On December 8 the Café will open its doors to stallholders and gift hunters and host its annual Christmas Fair. “There will be lots of opportunities to buy an unusual gift, take part in Christmas Crafts, try your luck at the tombola or other competitions or simply relax with a home
Mountsorrel Methodist Church
Men’s Fellowship 50th Anniversary Weekend Saturday February 23, 2013, 6pm Celebration 3 course Dinner Followed with entertainment by the Loughborough Concert Band Tickets £10 each Available from Geoff Wainwright tel: 0116 2376979 Sunday February 24, 2013 10.30am Anniversary Service including special items by the Men’s Chorus Preacher: Rev R Graham Carter (ex President of Conference) We welcome your support on both occasions St Theresa’s
Christmas Bazaar Sat December 15 11am till 3pm in St Theresa’s Church Hall Front Street Stalls to include cake stall, bottle tombola, raffle, preserves & many more to delight you
made mince pie and a hot drink” said café trustee Leslie Strange. The doors open at 11am and there will be Christmas music until 4pm. Leslie said: “The Christmas Fair is always a great opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate Christmas. We look forward to welcoming everybody to the Café.” On December 15 the Café will again be welcoming some specially invited older residents and supporters of the Café’s work to celebrate with us by sharing in a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. The dinner will be prepared and served by young people and Café volunteers. With the support of local food suppliers, this Christmas celebration meal aims to repeat the success of last year’s event with good home cooked food, a dollop of Christmas music and lots of seasonal cheer. The Café will finish its activities for its younger customers with a party on December 21. For a small donation towards the cost of the food the café will be open between 3 and 5 pm. Parents and supporters will also be welcome. The Café will be starting its 2013 activities on Thursday January 3. Looking forward Graham Lloyd, the Café Youth officer said: “We have had a fantastic 2012 and we are all looking forward to building on our success over the next 12 months. Thank you to all the young people who regularly visit us and to our volunteers who help make the Café work so well.” Leslie said: “On behalf of the staff and trustees I would like to thank all our suppliers and customers for their support. We all wish Mountsorrel residents a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.” If you are interested in finding out more about the Café, the Christmas events or volunteering please give Graham a call on 07775 616001 or email: glloyd@sycafe.org
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2012
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Remembrance Sunday parade Lafarge’s green standards recognised MOUNTSORREL REMEMBERED the fallen at the village’s annual Remembrance Sunday parade and service on November 11, Armistice Day.
Organised by the Royal British Legion, the parade from The Green to the church was led by the musicians of the Leicestershire Co-op Snibston Band. Youth organisations, councillors and dignitaries including the Mayor of Charnwood, Diane Wise, took part in the parade. It was followed by a service at St Peter’s Church. This year’s Poppy appeal raised £3300 in the village. Appeal organiser John Doyle said: “As ever this a great effort from a small community and as the collection organiser I’m particularly grateful to those who attended our coffee and cake morning launch at the Sorrel Youth Cafe and a big thank you to all the shops, pubs and other outlets that had collection boxes supporting the appeal.” Pic: Charnwood Mayor Diane Wise & County Cllr Peter Osborne PICS: CLIVE RASIN
LEICESTERSHIRE BASED building materials supplier, Lafarge, has joined an elite set of ‘green’ firms to achieve re certification of the Carbon Trust Standard. Only a third of companies have succeeded in regaining the Standard – the world’s first carbon reduction award for organisations taking action on climate change. Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK, based in Syston, obtained recertification thanks to ever evolving energy saving initiatives which have cut carbon emissions by 16 per cent over the last five years. The Standard certification was awarded to all of the company’s UK operations and subsidiaries, including 35 quarries, 98 readymix plants, 17 asphalt plants, depots and head office at Granite House, Syston. Energy saving measures have included using ducting to redirect heat generated from compressors to warm up workshops; installing timers on office heaters; installing individual switches on lighting; implementing ‘soft starts’ on crushers and conveyors; establishing more vigorous maintenance and repair programmes to optimise efficiency of equipment and, at Dowlow, replacing the bi-monthly grass cutting routine with sheep grazing.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2012
Crime report ANTISOCIAL behaviour has reduced in the village. The perpetrators have been identified and are being dealt with incrementally. One of our young offenders was locked up on remand and was visited by one of our investigations team. During this visit the offender admitted a further 14 offences in Mountsorrel. Following an increase in burglary in
September we have identified some offenders and these have been interviewed and subsequently charged. There is an ongoing Police operation in the area which is dedicated to burglary patrols and investigation and this will remain in
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place until the new year. Crime Report: Aug 1 – Oct 31 ASB 8, assaults 13, burglary 12, burglary non-dwelling 4, damage 12, damage to motor vehicle 12, theft 42, drugs 4, public order 5 Total number of crimes : 147 (same period in 2011 : 204) From Jan 8, 2013 the new Beacon Officer for Mountsorrel is PC Ian Mundy 2995 From PC Glenn Spiby 2041
Keep dogs on lead in cemetery SOME DOG OWNERS are allowing their dogs to run off the lead in Mountsorrel cemetery. A spokesman for the Parish Council said: “Despite notices being displayed in the cemetery requesting dogs to be kept on leads, these irresponsible owners are ignoring the regulations and allow their dogs to run over graves which not only displays disrespect, but causes distress to people visiting their loved ones. “The Parish Council do not wish to impose a total ban on dogs as some people take comfort from visiting a grave whilst walking their dog and feel it unfair to penalise everyone for a few inconsiderate people. The Parish Council will endeavour to monitor the situation.”
0116 2302295
Christmas Carol Concert Organised by
Mountsorrel Parish Council You are all invited to the Memorial Hall on Tuesday December 11 at 7.30pm
Those taking part include: The Ratby Co-operative Band Local Organisations • Local Clergy Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the concert
Cancer care MARIE CURIE Cancer Care’s Fundraising Group for Charnwood has just started and is looking for members. They will be organising a variety of different events, while supporting Marie Curie Cancer Care to help raise funds to allow terminally ill patients to die in their own home supported by their families. Members of other groups have joined for a variety of different reasons, but many have had some experience of a Marie Curie Cancer Care nurse. One support group member said: “I give my time in thanks for the care given to my son in his last few days, to help raise funds for others to get the same care as he received.” Another member said: “Because of Marie Curie Cancer Care my cousin, aged 29, was able to come home for his final days. In his memory and to help others have the same privilege I volunteer and support the charity.” If you would like to join the group or find out more, contact Anna 01604 442315 or email: anna.sherwood@mariecurie.org.uk for an informal chat.
Planning P/12/2126/2: 84 Kingfisher Road – retention of car port P/12/2330/2: 8 Linkfield Road – erection of dormer extension to rear of dwelling P/12/2194/2: The Lindens, 22 Halstead Road – erection of nine dwellings P/12/2052/2: 53 Halstead Road – conversion of loft into habitable space with two dormer windows to the front and dormer and rooflights to rear of dwelling P/12/2041/2: 3 Highfields Road – erection of 1st floor extension to side and single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/12/2072/2: 75 Leicester Road – change of use to mixed use Classes A1 retail, A2 professional services and B1 office use P/12/2005/2: Land off Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley – Site for residential development for a maximum of 250 dwellings and new primary school. Change of use of dwelling to medical facility and of agricultural land to extend residential curtilages and construction of relief road. P/12/1966/2: 2A The Green – Removal of condition 1 or P/11/0771/2 to permanently retain the use as a sui generis use (comprising mixed use café (A3) and youth centre (D1) and variation of condition 2 of P/11/07771/2 to increase opening hours to 8.00-22.00 weekdays and 9.00-22.00 on Sats with occasional bank holiday opening
Attempted robbery A 28-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested by Police and charged with attempting to rob a delivery driver. The incident is alleged to have taken place on Saturday November 17 in Church Hill Road, Mountsorrel.
MOUNTSORREL POST
A GROUP of volunteers that provides activities for young people in Mountsorrel is looking for sponsorship. The Mountsorrel Youth Development Group (MYDG) is affiliated to Mountsorrel Parish Council and was formed in 2006. Each summer it organises a free activity day on the Halstead Road playing field with stalls, rides, sports and craft activitits. MYDG also work with the Soar Valley Leisure Centre to provide a four week programme of free activities at the Leisure Centre. To continue their work in 2013 the group is looking for donations or sponsorship from local groups, businesses or individuals. If you can help, contact the group via the Parish Council Office: mountsorrel.pc@co-net.com 0116 2303809
Centre improved LOUGHBOROUGH LEISURE Centre is halfway through a £2.1million refurbishment. The facility, owned by Charnwood Borough Council and run by the charity, Fusion Lifestyle, has had a new gym, a new cycling studio and a new soft play area for children. The final phase of the improvements will see the launch of a new main exercise studio, disabled changing areas, new toilets and a refurbished sports hall. The centre has a 25m swimming pool.
Santa’s tour THE ROTARY Club of the Soar Valley will once again be accompanying Santa on his tour of local villages from December 7-23. Santa will be touring Birstall on Wed Dec 19 and Thurs Dec 20, Mountsorrel on Fri Dec 7 and Mon Dec 10 and Rothley on Mon Dec 10 and Fri Dec 21. He will also be making stops at Birstall’s Co-op supermarket on Dec 16 and Budgens, Mountsorrel on Dec 22 & 23. The March issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Feb 23. The copy deadline is Feb 8.
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Report piles of rubbish RESIDENTS ARE being asked to help extinguish firebugs by reporting rubbish piles as part of an innovative arson-busting scheme. Charnwood Borough Council, its waste management partner Serco and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service have joined forces to tackle arson risks, such as piles of dumped waste. The partnership is part of the council’s award-winning Don’t Muck Around campaign which during November is targeting fly tipping and raising awareness of Duty of Care offences. When an incident of illegally dumped waste is reported, the Council will make clearing it a priority. Mick Grewcock, Charnwood District Manager for the Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service said: “This is a really great initiative which will see rubbish removed quickly preventing it from being set fire to. I would urge the community to be vigilant and report incidents of waste being dumped that could be a potential target for fire.” If you are a resident email: cleaner.greener@charnwood.gov.uk or call the contact centre on 01509 634564. They will need to know the exact location and what the rubbish consists of. The Council cannot deal with rubbish on private properties but we can use litter clearing notices in extreme cases.
PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN
Youth group
DEC 2012
Volunteer thanked by village club A DRIVER and care assistant was presented with a gift by members of the Mountsorrel Housebound Club. Rod Newitt has collected clients from nearby villages, cared for them at the day centre and taken them home for almost 10 years. He was presented with
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a cheque to be put towards a holiday, and thanked for his dedicated work. Pic: Rod Newitt receives a cheque from Pam Cooper
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2012
Police launch blitz Rare on burglary moth NEARLY 150 people have been arrested in Leicestershire for A STUDENT has discovered a a range of burglary related offences during the first eight rare moth in a Charnwood weeks of a new force wide campaign to tackle burglary. beauty spot – the first of its type found in Leicestertime last year. ‘Operation Dynamo’ was launched at Detective Chief Inspector Rich Ward, the beginning of August with all officers shire. and members of staff being urged not to leave any stone unturned in their search for burglars. 78 people have been arrested for burglary related offences an the Counties’ BCU and a further 61 across the City BCU – a total of 139 arrests. Details of those individual arrests and charges are now being updated on the Force website every day. A dedicated team of detectives has been established who will visit the victim of every burglary and ensure a robust investigation is carried out; exploring all possible avenues including forensic opportunities, CCTV, house to house enquiries and Automatic Number Plate Technology (ANPR). Known offenders across the city and county will receive regular visits from officers to ensure they are not offending and significant work is being done with Force’s ANPR cameras to deny criminals the use of Leicestershire and Rutland’s roads. Crime pattern analysis shows that 40% of burglaries which are committed on the Counties’ BCU are committed by people who live outside the County or Force area. Officers will also be giving crime prevention advice to each victim of burglary and their immediate neighbours. House burglaries across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are at a thirteen year low but year to date figures are showing a small increase of 3.4% which is 44 offences more than this
who is the Force’s lead for burglary, said: “Members of the public have a role to play in tackling crime and reducing the opportunities for burglars to break into their homes. On many occasions when we examine the crime reports we see the words ‘insecure entry’ which means the burglar has got into the property through an unlocked door or open window. We’re hoping to encourage people to do a quick security check of their homes before they go out, or go to bed, to eliminate those opportunities. “We’ve also had a number of incidents where people have reported suspicious activity three or four days after the crime. We want to encourage people to call us the minute they see something out of the ordinary so we can respond quickly. This significantly increases our chances of catching those responsible. “Our focus will remain on closely monitoring offenders who are already known to us and we will be paying a lot of attention to the roads through our county and city using modern technology to catch criminals driving through Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.” If you have any information about any crime, you can contact us on 101. In an emergency, where life is in danger or a crime is in progress, always call 999. Calls to 101 cost 15p for the entire call from both mobile phones and land lines.
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Rebecca Faulkner, from BarrowUpon-Soar, spotted a European micro moth at the Outwoods near Loughborough in August while she was carrying out a wildlife study as part of her Nottingham Trent University degree. The micro moth, Harpella forficella, has only been found three times in the UK and this is the first recorded sighting in Leicestershire and Rutland. It is usually found in warmer European climes. Rebecca, who is in the final year of her Wildlife Conservation degree, said: “I was so pleased with my discovery . There is nothing more exciting for a moth trapper than to find a rare species. “At first I had no idea it was a rare moth. But when I sent a photo to the county recorder he was able to identify the moth and tell me the good news.”
Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Mountsorrel library. Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word. AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consultancy. Plans drawn and submitted. Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395/07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk MATHS & PHYSICS tuition. Popular, experienced private/college tutor (PGCE, BSc Hons) offers excellent tuition and exam preparation for GCSE and A-level. Call 07980 749992 for more details
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