the Birstall post Y O U R
C O M M U N I T Y
AUGUST 2016
N E W S P A P E R
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 397
Dozens open yards in Birstall THE FOURTH Big Birstall Yard Sale saw 203 village homes selling off their unwanted items.
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The event, organised by Fiona Barnes, raised £1122 for charity Adapt Prem Babies which supports parents whose babies are born prematurely.
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Pics: (above) David and Jan Gaskell at their stall & (inset) Fiona Barnes
Torrential rain in the morning cleared up by noon. Fiona said: “It was a fantastic day, it seemed that Birstall was full of gazebos and it was great to see so many making an effort.” The Mayor and Mayoress of Charnwood, David and Jan Gaskell of Roman Road, took part in the sale. Jan said: “What a day – we got absolutely soaked attempting to move our items for sale firstly back and forwards into the porch, then trying to cover them with plastic sheeting and finally moving everything into the garage. Despite the dreadful weather we met some interesting people whilst raising much needed funds. Well done Fiona and her team for a
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well organised event.” The event was supported by a grant of £286 from Birstall Parish Council which paid for printing maps, posters and leaflets. “Huge thanks to the council for that grant” said Fiona. “I don’t think the event would have happened this year without it.”
Drink driving
Faith’s charity hair cut
A GIRL from Birstall has had her long hair cut off to support a children’s cancer charity.
LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE has arrested a total of 46 people during their extended 35 day drink drive summer crackdown.
Faith Adams (10) of Stonehill Avenue had 15 inches of her hair cut off at Lanza Salon in Sileby – it will be given to the Little Princess Trust who will make it into a wig for children suffering from hair loss associated with cancer treatment.
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Faith said: “I have been wanting to donate my hair for a while now and it is all becoming real. I am so pleased that my hair will be used to make a wig that little children with no hair can use to finally feel normal again. “Thank you to everyone who has donated and supported me in doing something so amazing as this.” Parents Sarah and Mark have set up a Just Giving donations page to raise the £350 it costs to produce a wig from donated hair. Mum Sarah said: “We are so proud of our daughter and wanted others to know in the hope that she inspires others in Birstall to do something similar.”
Award winning firm BIRSTALL Double glazing contractors, Conservatory & Window Concepts Ltd, has been handed a prestigious award for the sustained quality of its customer service by leading consumer interest organisation, the Consumer Protection Association.
Following a weekend which saw nine more arrests for failing roadside breath tests, the overall total is eleven more than during June 2015. Forty two (over 91%) of those arrested were men, and of those 12 were aged between 17 to 24. Twenty one of the arrests were in Leicester with the reminder spread across the force area including eight in Hinckley and Bosworth and five each in Charnwood and North West Leicestershire. This year’s enforcement campaign ran for an extra week, from Monday 6 June to Sunday 10 July, to coincide with the European Football Championships. Chief Inspector Phil Vickers, from the East Midlands Operational Support Services (EMOpSS)heads up the regional drink drive campaign. He said: “Too many people are still risking both their lives, and those of innocent people, by getting behind the wheel while unfit to drive. It is just not worth the risk, if you choose to drink and drive our round the clock patrols will catch you whether you are in the city, our towns or villages.”
Get kids digging
THIS SUMMER at the King Richard III Visitor Centre younger visitors can discover the techniques used by The CPA, which helps the archaeologists during the public to identify safe reliable Greyfriars dig, which took contractors to carry out home improvements, awarded place in 2012 and uncovits 5 year Member- ered the remains of King ship Achievement Richard III.
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Award to CWC. Membership of the CPA means that customers have their deposits and guarantee underwritten by the organisation. Mandy Manning from CWC said: “We put the interests of the customer first and we won’t compromise on our attention to detail or the quality of the materials we use. “Everything is carefully project managed by us personally and we do everything we can to ensure the work we do enhances your home.”
During the school holidays children can learn the basics of archaeology and uncover hidden artefacts in mini archaeology dig pits. Any finds made will need to be recorded, as all good archaeologists do, and awards will be given to all children uncovering anything of interest. The event runs from Monday July 18 to Friday August 26 on weekdays at 11am until 1pm. Visitors can also experience for themselves the story of King Richard III and the discovery of his remains – one of the greatest archaeological mysteries ever solved. The Visitor Centre will be open for extended hours during school holidays, opening from 10am until 5pm MondaySaturday. The Centre closes at 4pm on Sundays. To book tickets and for more information visit www.kriii.com
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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Former boater back beside the water
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BIRSTALL’S NEW lock keeper is keen to pass on his experience, skills and knowledge to canal visitors and boaters having been a narrowboat owner himself for 25 years. “Having now sold my boat I’d like to put something back” says Peter Price, who took up his volunteer post in April having been appointed by the Canal & River Trust.
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“I love the quietness, the ambience and the people I meet” says Peter. They are all such interesting people to talk to. And I’ve always liked being on the canals and since I sold my boat, I missed it .” Peter’s duties include helping boaters through the locks, light maintenance work, ensuring that the lock is usable and providing information to walkers, cyclists and anglers about the canal network, Watermead Park and local wildlife. Peter, a retired headteacher who lives on Oakfield Avenue, said: “Most boaters know how to handle their boats sensibly but people who have hired boats are sometimes not sure how to control their boats in the lock and need a little help.” He added: “An increasing number of boaters are coming to visit Leicester and are mooring at Birstall because of its shops and
Pic: lock keeper Peter Price and (inset) a hotel boat Passes through Birstall lock
facilities.” Peter can be seen on duty once a week from Easter until October and also during bank holidays.
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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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Highcross new stores
Novel by a Birstall author set during war THE DEBUT novel by Birstall writer Anne Jordan is about Jimmy, a young man with learning difficulties caught up in the second world war.
JESSOPS, THE camera retailer, is one of three new stores opening in Highcross Leicester this August.
Launching mid-August, Jessops, the Leicester born brand is returning to the city three years after Dragon’s Den star Peter Jones invested in the company. The new store will offer an extensive range of cameras, photography products, printing services and Academy training workshops for all abilities. Party and gift store, Occasions will also launch in August. The brand has secured a 3,746 sq ft unit in a prime position within the shopping centre between Schuh and GAME. Vintage clothing store, Harper and Lewis, is located next to Superdry. Jo Tallak, General Manager at Highcross Leicester said: “We’re really excited by the latest additions to the centre and that we can bring back Jessops to Leicester. We’re dedicated to bringing exciting offerings to our visitors and hope that these new retailers help to further cement Highcross, and the city itself, as a top shopping destination.”
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“I used to teach adults with learning difficulties and I have learnt so much from them” said Anne. We need to have the lives and experiences of people like Jimmy take centre stage in our literature.” Jimmy lives with his grandma and when she is killed in an explosion he survives and is taken to hospital. He has no understanding about death so has no idea where his grandma has gone. Two people he knows well try to explain that she has died but the words they use confuse him. He is left with the strange idea his grandma is behind the sea and he must find her. But he doesn't know what the sea looks like and where it is. Where does he begin? After a number of failed attempts to find the sea Jimmy ends up in Dover. This is where he begins to learn about death by witnessing it for the first time. Finally he becomes involved in the rescue of the British Expeditionary Force from the beaches of Dunkirk and realises for the first time that his Grandma is dead. It is on the bloody shores of France that Jimmy, heroically, finally sees what is behind the sea. Anne, 65, lives on Malling Close and retired three years ago from working at Longslade College. Her book, Behind the Sea, is available from Amazon as a paperback or an ebook. Pic: author Anne Jordan
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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
BIRSTALL’S SCHOOLS are appealing for unwanted musical instruments. “The Birstall schools have a strong focus on music which we’re seeking to develop further as a family of schools by encouraging as many children as possible to learn musical instruments” said chair of the Lionheart Academies Trust Chris Swan “We’d like to extend our bank of instruments available on loan to the children – if you have a clarinet, recorder, guitar, violin etc hiding away in the attic that isn’t being used we’d be delighted to give it a new home if you feel able to donate it to us.” Contact Michael Scrivens at Cedars ms@thecedarsacademy.org.uk
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BAGS’ golf day at Birstall club BIRSTALL BAGS charity golf day in June raised £2000.
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Organised by John Clayton and held at Birstall Golf Club, 72 people took part in the event. The money raised will help the charity extend the support and services it provides for cancer patients. “We would like to give a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the day “said a spokeswoman for Birstall BAGS.
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Pics; (below) some of the golfers who took part in the event. Top (l-r) Kelly White, Rosie Houldsworth, Emma Shaw & Helen Carnan
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Voluntary role with foundation A NEWLY retired headteacher from Birstall will be working with a local sports foundation that supports people who are fighting back after life changing injuries. Dave Thomas (56) was headteacher of Ashmount Special School in Loughborough – it supports children and young people to live and enjoy their lives to the fullest in spite of special needs and disabilities. Dave, of Heathgate Close, will now be working with the Matt Hampson Foundation. It raises awareness and funds for sports people who have suffered life changing injuries. Since Matt’s own injury in 2005 he has worked tirelessly to support other sports people to continue their lives and ‘Get Busy Living’. Dave has worked with Matt in the past as his as his positive image and inspirational work is closely reflected in the aims and values of Ashmount School. He said: “After 35 years of work with young people with disabilities I want to carry some of their determination and positivity forward into some voluntary work in my retirement. I have known Matt for some time and find his spirit and drive infectious. Like Matt Ashmount School focuses on what people can do, not what they can’t. The message of ‘Get Busy Living’ really fits well with current educational challenges around resilience and character in young people. I am passionate to raise awareness of the work of The Matt Hampson foundation and to pass on Matt’s powerful message”. The foundation is currently support-
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ing a number of people who are fighting back after life changing injuries. They are also building the innovative ‘Get busy Living Centre’ where people with sporting injuries can adjust to a new life. Matt Hampson said: “Fixing someone’s body is a job that medical teams and hospitals do well but they don’t address the mental and emotional side of adjusting to a life which will never be
the same again. The centre will work with people to Get Busy Living and achieve the very best they can in their new lives.” Dave will be contacting schools and charities to take Matt’s message to people and to raise awareness of how we can all learn from the passion and determination of this extraordinary man. Pic: Dave (left), Matt (ctr) and Tigers and England player Louis Deacon
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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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New website LOCAL CHARITY Birstall BAGS has a new website.
Gym’s new coach A PRIZEWINNING boxer visited Carl Gunns’ Birstall boxing gym in June. Chantelle Cameron (25) narrowly missed out on securing a place in the British team at the Rio Olympics when she was defeated in Kazakhstan by a fighter from Finland in a split decision. Chantelle is impressed with the set up
at Carl’s gym. “I think it’s brilliant, the best example I’ve seen” she said. “I like the way he works with the children, playing fun and games and also learning the basics of boxing. Carl is a real boxing man, someone who really loves the sport.” Newly qualified as a coach, Chantelle will now be helping coach the more than 80 girls who currently use the gym.
Chantelle is rated the number one female fighter in Britain at the 60kg weight. Of her fight in Kasakhstan she said: “It was heartbreaking not to win and not qualify for the Olympics.”
Birstall BAGS seeks to bring people together to raise funds to support cancer services used by the local community. The charity also takes every opportunity to raise the profile of cancer particularly with regard to the signs and symptoms recognising that early diagnosis of cancer really can save lives. A spokeswomen said: “The new website is aimed at sharing our story, helping our supporters connect with our services and events and allows visitors to see the difference our donations are making for the people of Birstall and Leicestershire. We have plenty of events coming up and will regularly share news about our work on the new website.” www.birstallbags.co.uk
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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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YOUR SAY...
The Birstall 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 Birstall Post, Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR, or handed in at Birstall library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk
Lost On Thursday June 14, I lost an Apple I pad mini in the Moorgate/Harrogate/Kingsgate area of Birstall. It is in a red case with an apple logo on it. My phone number is 07801651158. Jean Ansell
Thanks We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all those who sent cards as well as those friends who were able to join us at Birstall Methodist Church for the thanksgiving service in memory of our dear daughter Sara. The amount raised for the charity chosen by her partner Gavin was £1232.42 Jan & Jack Berry
Talented There is still time to offer your talents, whatever they may be- for the Day of Talents that is being held at Birstall Methodist Church on Saturday August 20 from 10am till 4pm. So far I think there are a lot of folks ‘hiding their lights under a bushel’ as the saying goes! If there are any ex members of the 663 Ensemble around you will be most welcome to join us for the occasion, we shall be playing a short programme (Palm Court style) around midday. We do hope that people will come along & enjoy all kinds of music ranging from Eric Coates to Jerome Kern (Begin the Beguine etc) . In the afternoon you may be entertained by vocalists, poetry readings, young musicians & even a conjurer & music played on a saw! All proceeds will be for Christian Aid & the Bark Foundation which supports a Cameroonian orphanage. Refreshments will be available in the Coffee Shop. Please come along & support two worthwhile charities. Cynthia Coltman
Parking Interesting letter in July issue and the villagewatch news suggest that the police are going to crackdown on illegal pavement parking. As a recent new resident in Wanlip, believe me the only way to stop pavement parking is to actually enforce the law. However, that happens to be a police matter and making waves with the motorists is not high on their list of 'to enforce'. There are many reasons why pavement parking is illegal apart from blocking pedestrians. The footway (correct legal term) is exactly that and is not designed for the weight of heavy metal boxes on wheels as they are not con-
structed to highway standards. The law is fairly clear on parking (see Highway Code) as vehicles are not allowed to park on the public highway (including footways) unless in a marked bay. Just think about that for a moment and you will realise that 'policing by consent' is one of those elastic situations whereby, many parking problems are ignored however, it's fairly clear where the footway begins and ends and should be enforced. By this you may have gathered that where I came from, your problem is a minor irritation. A couple of years ago I spotted a lady pushing her child in a push chair into the road to get round vehicles blocking the footway and we discussed the problem. It turned out that was exactly what she used to do before having children and it never occurred as a problem before. It will be interesting to see if the local police 'crackdown' actually has any effect. It would be easier to put warning leaflets on offenders vehicles, follow up with a letter prior to actual enforcement as the average motorist really is his own worst enemy! The excuse is always 'I have no-where else to leave it' and the answer is obvious. Norman Cutting
Noticeboard all details printed free St Theresa’s Summer Trips Aug 24, Waterworld £10 each Aug 25, Skegness £12 each Aug 26, Drayton Manor Park £22 child, £25 adult Prices include return coach travel and entry to the park For more info or to book a place please contact Mark on 0116 2601395 or email styouthgroup@live.co.uk
Abbey Pumping Station Museum Corporation Road, Leicester
Railway Day Sat Aug 6 11am-4pm, free admission Take a ride on the narrow gauge railway (small charge)
Seaside Special Steam Day
Bowls There are still two months of the bowls season left and that is plenty of time to give bowls a try. The government are taking all sorts of initiatives to get people more active basically because this is a simple way of getting people healthier. Bowls is not a strenuous activity but, and this is where science comes in, strenuous activity is not actually necessary for good health. The most important thing is just to keep things on the move. If anyone wants to give bowls a try, our club takes players of all abilities and can offer coaching where needed. Please give John or Carolyn a ring on 2675947 for further details. St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club Birstall Road www.smcbc.com
The Sept issue of
THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Sept 3. The copy deadline is Aug 19.
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Sun Sep 4, 1-5pm The 8th seaside day at the museum. Relax in a deckchair, bring your swimsuit and join us on the museum’s beach while the children build sand castles. All the traditional sights and sounds of the seaside with Punch & Judy and donkey rides – but without the travelling! Trips on the narrow gauge railway available. The museum’s massive beam engines will be running Refreshments at the beach café or the indoor café Vintage bus trips Seaside special admission : Family £8, children/conc £2.50, Adults £3.50
Councillor Surgery Last Sat of every month 10am to 12noon 10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern
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Birstall Running Club Meet Monday & Friday nights, 6.20 for 6.30 run Birstall School Lane playing fields
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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– showers & toilets available Wednesday night beginners group at Birstall Legion 7pm Speed work sessions also available on Wednesdays for those wanting to improve Contact Deryk on dwoods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640 Web site – www.birstallrc.org.uk
Open Church St Leonard’s Swithland Aug 21, 2-4pm Come and join us for tea, coffee & cake A wander round to explore some of this beautiful church’s history Open on the 3rd Sunday of the month May – September
Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, August 9, at 6.30pm for a 7pm start You are invited to join us at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre at The Cedars Academy, Wanlip Road, Birstall LE4 4GH to watch renowned professional artist, Norman Rossiter, demonstrate how to create ‘ Wildlife in a Landscape’ a ‘Landscape’ using acrylics. Come along, be excited and encouraged to see if you will be inspired to try your hand at this wonderful and fulfilling hobby. Demonstration to end at 9pm. Members £1, Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access. St James Parish Church Social Group
Coach outing to Newark Wednesday August 17th Leaving at 9.30am from outside Birstall Social Club and returning from Newark at 4.30pm Cost of coach £12 per person Please contact Sandra on 0116 2677238 to book a place
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
St James' Summer Fayre Monday 29 August from 12 noon to 4pm at St James' the Great Church, on the lawn and in the church, Church Hill, Birstall Stalls, Games, Tea and Cakes, Hot dogs, Photography and Baking competitions, Entertainment, Craft Activities, Raffle and Bouncy Castle. For details about competitions, please visit the Church Website: www.birstall.org/events Entry 50p for adults Proceeds towards Air Ambulance and the Church We Look Forward To Seeing You
Coffee Shop & Table Top Sale Saturday 19 August, 10am-1pm Birstall Methodist Church & Church Hall Leicester Gilbert & Sullivan Society raising funds in aid of MND Association Tombola, Raffle, lots of different tables etc Please come along and support this charity
Birstall Tea Dances St James, Village Hall Birstall Road, Leicester LE4 4DH Fridays: August 12th & 26th 3.30pm - 5.30pm £3 each on the door Everyone welcome Tea / Coffee & cake included Further information contact: Jackie 0116 2248278 / 07908607405 jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk Join Charity Link for the
Leicestershire 3 Peaks Power Walk Leicester based poverty charity, Charity Link, would like to invite you to join them for their first ‘Leicestershire 3 Peaks Power Walk’ – a 15 mile challenge taking place on Sunday 25th September 2016. The challenge will see individuals and teams taking on a 15 mile course starting and finishing at Bradgate Park. The route includes the peaks of Old John Tower, Beacon Hill and Leicestershire’s highest peak, Bardon Hill, which, at 912ft, is just 88ft short of a mountain. Walking through some of the
county’s most beautiful (and physically challenging!) scenery, the goal is to finish the route within six hours. Funds raised through the walk will help the charity, which marks its 140th birthday this year, to change the lives of local individuals and families in severe financial hardship or crisis, including the victims of domestic violence and people facing chronic illness or disability. For more details visit www.charitylink.org/events/challenges or contact Rachel Markham for an information pack (email rachel.markham@charty-link.org or call 0116 222 2218).
Party In The Park – Rothley Sunday 28th August at Rothley Park Cricket Club Afternoon fun for all the family in the afternoon followed by live music in the evening FREE entrance, donations to the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust Kaines Castles
Family Fun Day Sunday 28th August - 11.30am – 3pm Highcliffe Primary School Birstall, LE4 3DL Included in entry price: Bouncy Castles, Giant Slide, Pony cycles & softplay £3 per child entry Also available on the day: BBQ, ice creams, candyfloss, popcorn, slush, snowcones & various stalls from schools, groups and shops. For further information please contact:
kaine@kainescastles.com
Birstall Royal British Legion 6th Andy Brown (M/V) 13th Nightshift (Duo) 20th Neil James (M/V) 27th Connie Bolton (F/V) Dancing every Saturday night with live entertainment Bingo, Free beer raffle and not forgetting Open the Box Every Tuesday night Bingo starting at 9.15pm Sunday Quiz nights Sunday 14th and 28th August starting at 9pm No acoustic night this month Wednesday quiz every week from 8.30pm Food available every Saturday 122pm Open Bank holiday Monday 123pm, families welcome-food available Wakes catered for Free Wi-Fi available New outside seating area
Charity Bridge Drive organised by Loughborough Lions Club will be held at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley on Wednesday 2nd November 2016 at 1.30pm with afternoon tea provided at a cost of £6 per person. To book a table please contact Jackie on 0116 2303317 or email: brianjackie.popple@ntlworld.com.
Birstall Flower Club August 24th 2016, 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Members’ Evening “The Great Floral Bake Off”
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Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary Linnett: 07704398017
St. Patricks Summer Quiz Beaumont Leys Lane Come and enjoy an evening with us on Friday 12 August at 7.30pm. Quiz and supper £5.00per person The bar will be open Birstall Royal British Legion Club Front Street presents
Open Night Non Members welcome (No children) Come along on Friday 19th August where you will be made welcome 7pm till late admission free Entertaining us for the evening is Vocalist Will Kinn will perform music from the 80’s onwards Belgrave Cemetery
Heritage Open Day
Sunday 11th September 10am3pm Situated near Red Hill Island on A563 post code LE4 3EX Commemorating Servicemen lost at The Battle of the Somme Guided Walks at 11am and 2pm Cemetery records and refreshments available
Children must be accompanied by an adult Free event all are welcome www.friendsofbelgravecemetery.o rg.uk The Rothley Heritage Trust Presents
“Russian Romantic Music” By Barry Collett Saturday 15th October 2016 10.30-16.30 The Old School Rooms, School St. Rothley Towards the end of the 19th century Russian composers became determined to form a new National School of Music, which broke away from Western influences to give a strong Russian flavour and character to their music. They succeeded, and wrote colourful and evocative masterworks that have become popular worldwide. We know well enough the usual suspects- Tchaikovsky, Rimsky-Korsakov, Rachmaninoff…….. but what about Taneyev, Pabst, Gliere, Kalinnikov, and others, who wrote charming and dramatic music, and who have been unfairly overlooked. This course will look at the whole range of music that has blossomed before the 1917 revolution. Course Fee £7 (includes morning and afternoon refreshments)
Early Enrolment By Post Essential Cheques payable to The Rothley Heritage Trust and sent to Brenda Sutherland, 4 North St., Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NN. Please include name(s), address, ‘phone number and e-mail (if applicable) so that details of the day can be sent to you. Further information from Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 vincent.mbe82@yahoo.co.uk Registered Charity No. 1145397 Birstall & District Art Society:
Annual Exhibition 5th - 7th November–at the Village Hall, Birstall Road, Leicester, LE4 4DH. Open 9.30am-5.00pm Sat & Sun, 9.30am-1.00pm Mon. Free admission, wheelchair access, refreshments, free parking to the rear of the village hall. Visit: www.badas.co.uk Please Support
The Day Of Talents Saturday, August 20, 10-4pm Birstall Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Call in & listen to instrumental & vocal music & see displays of paintings & Handicrafts. All donations will go to Christian Aid & the Bark Foundation. (Cameroonian Orphanage).
CLASH 2012 Dock - Arthritis information Drop in: Monday 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd August 10.00am - 12.00pm i-Pad Training Drop-in Thursday 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th August 1.00 - 3.00pm No iPad Barclays Digital Eagles training in August Monthly meeting Wednesday August 10th 6.00-8.00pm Join Vijya Chahan to listen to her talk about the benefits of Yoga and pressure points. (Refreshments available) The main entrance will be closed, please call 0333 344 4611 for access. Open meeting Peepul Enterprise No YOGA in August Wednesday: Seated/General Exercise session - Nicola Bishop, 3rd 17th, 24th & 31st August 1.002.00pm Tesco Express Shelthorpe Community Room Wednesday General Exercises, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st August 2.30-3.30pm Sunday Club Children & Young People’s Fun Activities 7th, 14th, & 21st August 2.00pm 3.00pm Hydrotherapy at Leicester General Hospital 4th, 11th,18th & 25th August 10.000am - 12.00pm (Lifeguard permitting. Our 2 lifeguards both have new positions commencing August. Current applications pending) For further information: Call 03333 444 611
Leicester roads resurfaced A HALF a million pound programme of road improvements and resurfacing works is set to take place across Leicester during the summer school holidays. Leicester City Council is carrying out the works, which will see road surfaces repaired, improved and resurfaced, from late July and through August, when traffic is at its lightest. The programme, which will cost about £580,000, includes a mixture of major resurfacing works, and smaller surface dressing improvements. Major projects include complete resurfacing work at the Red Hill Way/Thurcast on Road Island, which began on July 23 for five days, and cost £131,000. The works are the latest phase of road improvements being made in the city. Work recently completed includes a £66,000 project to resurface Charles Street, and a £108,000 scheme to resurface Welford Road between Marlborough Street and Regent Road. Elsewhere, resurfacing work at the A50/A563 roundabout has been done as part of the ongoing North West Leicester A50 corridor improvements. In total, the city council’s Highway Capital Planned Maintenance Programme for 2016/17 is worth £3.3million, with over £2.2million being invested in improving roads and footpaths, £700,000 on bridges and £600,000 on better lighting and traffic signals. A further £1.2million from the council’s Highways Revenue Maintenance budget is being spent on repairing roads and footpaths across the city.
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 Birstall 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
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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Cedars students perform musical Oliver CEDARS ACADEMY students staged a production of Oliver at the end of the summer term. The cast came from all the school’s year groups, 7-13, who have been rehearsing hard for two terms in lunchtimes and after school. The performance drew on the students singing, dancing and acting skills and benefited from the participation of ex-student Dan Simpson as Bill Sykes. Dan is now at acting college and ran workshops with the cast. The music was performed by students and A-level dance students did the choreography.
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Pics: (left) Dan Simpson as Bill Sykes & (top right) David Pole as Oliver
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City hosts cycle race THE CASTLE Classic cycle race will return to the streets of Leicester later this summer.
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
Elite cyclists will compete in a fast, flat and challenging kermesse-style race, taking in Mile Straight and linking the King Power Stadium with the cobbles in front of Leicester Castle. The race – which is free to watch – takes place on Sunday 14 August, and will feature up to nine of the best profes-
sional teams in the UK, competing as part of British Cycling’s National Elite Road Race Series. This year, the start and finish line will be located at the King Power stadium, giving even more people a chance to get a great view of the racing action. Now a firm fixture in Leicester’s sum-
mer events calendar, the Castle Classic weekend will also feature a range of supporting races on Sunday 14 August, plus a sportive for keen amateur riders, on Saturday 13 August. The Castle Classic sportive – a timed
ride that is designed to challenge keen amateur riders, but is not a race – will offer three route options through the scenic Leicestershire countryside, covering 60, 100 or 160km. Riders who complete the sportive will bag themselves a free pint, courtesy of sponsors Everards, which can be redeemed when they watch the
events on Sunday. (An alternative freebie will also be available for people who don’t want a beer). Last year, more than 300 keen riders took part in the Castle Classic sportive, with an estimated audience of 2,500 turning out to watch the Castle Classic professional race and supporting races. The weekend will kick off the Ride Leicester festival – a two-week festival of all things cycling, which will offer bike try-outs, themed films, talks, discussions and social events. Ride Leicester will culminate with the popular Leicester Sky Ride, which will take place on Sunday 28 August and will see Leicester’s roads opened up for cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy, trafficfree. To find out more about the Sky Ride and local guided rides, visit www.leicester.gov.uk/cycling www.facebook.com/LeicesterCastleClassic
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NHW news
& crime report
A major change has been in the attitude and services provided by the Police. Units have been set up to provide more rapid and non-judgemental services and special training has been provided to police officers on how to handle reports of sexual violence. Leicestershire Police have been in the vanguard of these improvements. As Neighbourhood Watch we should be aware that sexual violence is happening and encourage victims to seek help. Some contact points are: Leicester Rape Crisis 0116 255 8852 Quetzal 0116 253 9103 Women’s Aid 0808 80 20028 National Domestic Violence 0800 200 0247 Leicestershire Police 101 First Step, based in Leicester, provides confidential services to male survivors of sexual abuse and their supporters, and can be contacted on 0116 254 8535. Birstall & Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch www.villagewatch.co.uk 0116 267 6397
Sexual and Domestic Violence By and large reported crime in Leicestershire is going down. Sexual violence including rape and domestic violence, however, are exceptions. The true increase is difficult to assess with accuracy as there is little doubt that in the past it has been under-reported. There are reasons for this - it is sometimes committed within families or by people known to the victim so victims are reluctant or too frightened to tell. There is the perceived stigma that the victim was somehow to blame because of her behaviour, dress or the situation she was in. The victim may not be believed and often it is her word against his. The Police have not always been sympathetic or supportive. Crime Report Birstall & Wanlip June However, attitudes are changing. 2016 There are a number of statutory and Assaults 7, Burglary Dwelling 3, Burg voluntary organisations whose mandate Non-Dwelling 2, Damage 5, Damage To is to support victims of sexual violence. M'veh 6, Drugs Offences 1, Theft 8, Theft Leicester Rape Crisis for example supCycle 1, Theft From M'veh 6, Theft From ports women who have been raped or Store 1 sexually abused. It operates a help line as well as face to face support and counWE HAVE seen a slight fall in recorded selling ser\/ices by fully trained voluncrime this month, down from 48 ofteers and staff. An interesting and fences in May to 40 in June. perhaps surprising fact is that some Thefts from motor vehicles is still an victims were abused many years ago and issue with another six crimes reported have suffered in silence and alone before the dam breaks and they seek help. this month. Please make sure that you lock your car whenever you leave it, It is important to stress that these supeven if it is just for a minute or two, as port services are designed to support we are still getting reports where vehiclients in the direction of their own choosing whether to report to the Police cles have been broken into after being left unlocked and items left on display. or not. We have seen a slight fall in the
number of incidents of vehicle damage this month and thankfully the number of stone throwing incidents has also reduced considerably, which is clearly good news. Please however continue to remain vigilant and if you see anyone throwing stones at passing vehicles report it via 101 or 999 (only if it is actually happening there and then) as we are still working to try and identify the people who are involved in doing this. Earlier this month a couple of young people who live locally were charged with various offences including criminal damage, theft and arson. We will continue to work hard to prosecute anyone who we can identify as being involved in criminal behaviour regardless of their age, so please ensure that you remind your son / daughter to behave responsibly when out and about in the village to prevent them from getting into trouble and falling foul of the law. We have conducted some further speed checks this month on Sibson Road and I am pleased to report that in just over an hour we didn’t catch anyone breaking the 30mph speed limit! We have however received reports recently of vehicles travelling at excess speed on Hallam Fields Road, Birstall Meadow Road and the Hallam Fields estate in general, so are planning to complete some checks at these locations in the near future. Please ensure that if you use these roads you are sticking to the speed limits at all times as the fairly narrow roads combined with lots of parked vehicles can make it especially dangerous in this area. We did not receive any reports of assaults or Anti-Social Behaviour as a result of the Birstall Gala and so I would like to say a big thank-you to everyone who was involved in the organization and running of the event, as I know that a great deal of hard work goes into this. Thanks for reading and as always please remain vigilant and report any crimes or suspicious activity to the Police on 101. You can also contact your local NHW co-ordinator for advice on non-crime matters. PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO’s 6611 Mark Butler and 6552 Mo Musa. NL60 – Birstall Police Office. http://www.leics.police.uk Tel: 0116 2677355 (Please note this is an advice line only – Please use 101 or 999 to report crime).
The Sept issue of
THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Sept 3. The copy deadline is Aug 19.
Epic day in the Lakes BIRSTALL RUNNING Club’s Ian Wilkins has completed a long distance triathlon in Keswick Ian (50) took part in the new Lakesman triathlon which features a 2.4mile swim in Derwentwater, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2mile run. His time was 12 : 34 : 56 Ian, who lives in Thurcaston, said: It was an amazing event, four years in the planning. And it coincided with me being 50 and is my favourite place in the world. Thanks to my wife Rosie, without her patience, support and encouragement through the six months of training, finishing in that time would not have been remotely possible.”
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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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Cricket & cakes at Presidents day ON A windy but sunny day a healthy crowd enjoyed BVCC Presidents Day. The club side won by 12 runs in a keenly fought match. I had asked for donations of either a raffle prize or some home made cakes and the wonderful ladies and gents of the club certainly came up trumps with 20 prizes and enough cakes to open a bakery which were still being enjoyed while watching
the Euro final at night. We had secretly held a tasting competition and the winner was Kelly White with her lemon drizzle cake. Both of the teams are hovering around mid-table of their respective divisions with the second team showing great improvement after losing their first five matches and now unbeaten in seven. Richard Olsen and Ashley Coulthard
among the runs and Steve Findley, John Clayton and Paul Oldcorn taking plenty of wickets. The first XI have won five of eleven games played with Andy Lord scoring regularly and Max Lewin finding some form and wickets being shared equally. From Birstall Village Cricket Club Pic: Current players and guests pictured before the start of the presidents match and the world’s only umpiring penguin
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100 holes in a day golfing challenge FIVE MEMBERS of Birstall Golf Club completed this year’s “100 Hole Challenge”, finishing the marathon challenge around their home course in just over seventeen hours. Led by club captain Richard Smith, the quintet set out at 4am and finished at 9pm. The other players were club professional John Williamson, male members Dave Seward and Simon Wells and Claire Stephens, who became the first
Pic: 100 holes completed (l-r) Dave Seward, Richard Smith, John Williamson, Claire Stephens and Simon Wells.
lady member to complete the challenge.
Queen’s birthday celebrated ON JUNE 12 St James Church organised a Civic Service to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday.
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
Guests at the service were the Chair of Birstall Parish Council, Ann Marshall and Mrs Eileen Lowndes (pictured), a local resident who shares her birthday with the Queen. After the service, which was well attended, ‘Happy Birthday’ was sung and a cake, donated by the Parish Council, was cut by Eileen and shared with the congregation.
The marathon effort was staged in aid of Birstall BAGS, a charity dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families. “It was a tremendous day” said Richard. “I didn’t realise how hard work 17 hours of golf would be, but it is in aid of a great charity and I am really pleased with how everyone pulled together. We expect to have raised a considerable sum for the charity”. Club professional John Williamson said the 100 holes was almost double what he had ever played in a day before: “I probably did 54 holes (three rounds) in a day when I was a kid, but this was the first time I have ever done a marathon like this”. He did have the satisfaction of the most spectacular hole of the day – an eagle at the par four 9th hole. Claire Stephens was also pleased with the achievement of completing the challenge: “I have done 36 holes in a day before and remember feeling tired after that, so I am happy I stuck it out and completed the whole event”.
The Sept issue of
THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Sept 3. The copy deadline is Aug 19.
Ladies in national final BIRSTALL LADIES Bowling Club will be represented at the National Championships for a tenth successive year following qualification in the Triples competition. losing out at the county semi final stage to Bill Hobart and Joe Dawson (Kingscroft). The pair, along with Paul Young also reached the quarter final of the county triples but lost out to a New Lount trio skipped by Alistair Hollis. Meanwhile the men’s Lighthouse team got to the quarter final of the Loughborough Triples League Monday Trophy before being beaten by Loughborough Greenfields by just one shot. Another open morning is planned for Saturday August 29 between 10am and 12 noon at the club on School Lane Playing Fields in Birstall for anyone who would like to give bowls a go. All you need are a pair of flat shoes or trainers as all the equipment is provided. Everyone is welcome and experienced club members will be on hand to offer advice and assistance. For more information about the club, ladies can call Jan on 0116 2122578 and men can contact Andy on 0116 2677969.
Rosemary Groves, Jan Everitt and Jennie Groves won six matches on the way to the county final, including victories over two Blaby teams in the quarter and semi finals, and will now represent Birstall and Leicestershire at Leamington Spa later this month. Rosemary and Jennie also both reached the quarter finals in the county singles before losing out to Angela Cleveley (Fleckney) and Alison Johnson (Knighton) respectively. John Hurst and Andy Wye were one win away from qualifying for the National Championships in the men’s pairs,
Brexit THE UK voted to leave the European Union on referendum day on June 23, but how did people vote in our area? In Charnwood 53.8% voted leave and 46.2% remain on a turnout of 70.4%. In Leicester 48.9% voted leave and 51.1% remain on a turnout of 65%. In the UK as a whole 51.9% voted leave and 48.1% remain on a turnout of 72%. Nine areas in the UK voted by over 70% to leave including Boston (75.6%), Thurrock (72.3%) and Great Yarmouth (71.5%). Remain votes were highest in London, Scotland and Northern Ireland, including Lambeth (78.6%) and Hackney (78.5%)
Football FREE FOOTBALL activities for children are being provided at Leicester’s New Walk Museum and Art gallery in the school holiday. FA qualified coaches will run sessions for all ages and abilities on the grass in Museum Square on Saturdays until August 6. Times are 11.30-1pm and 2-3.30pm and places need to be reserved in advance on 0116 2254900. Free sessions are also offered on Tuesdays from 11-1pm and 2-4pm until August 23, on Tuesdays, craft activities indoors are also offered at a charge of £2.50. www.visitleicester.info
Pic: WI crafters handing over a cheque for £300 to the charity Abel Aid
WI crafters raise cash 29 LADIES congregated on July 4 for Birstall and Wanlip WI’s last meeting before the summer break. Pete Allen told us about his charity Abel Aid that provides camping holidays in Wales for disabled people. This enables the campers to be involved in activities that they would not normally be able to pursue. It also provides carers with much needed respite knowing that their loved ones are having a wonderful holiday without them. They rely totally on the help of volunteers who are recruited by word of mouth and so our crafters were delighted to present them with a cheque for £300 raised from their sales. We were left with plenty of time to for refreshments and to chat about further
activities throughout the summer including a walk around Watermead Park, a hat making course and a coach trip to Trentham Gardens. Mary Goodman gave us an excellent report on her trip to the AGM in Brighton where two resolutions were passed on dementia care and food waste. There were also several top class speakers and a musical celebration of HM the Queen’s 90th birthday. We meet again on September 5 when our speaker is Paul Taberner who will talk to us about the Real CSI and the competition is an unusual murder weapon. From Birstall & Wanlip WI
Lots of opportunities to perform throughout the year Dance for fun or train to a pre- professional standard in a friendly, welcoming environment Graded Examination classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Acrobatics from aged 2 upwards. Vocal coaching • Tumbling Skills
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Pic: Edward Argar MP (ctr) with guests
MP visits Holiday fun tea party
A PROGRAMME of summer activities for children has been announced by Charnwood Borough Council. Activities on offer include football, boxing at Gunns’ Gym, horse riding, frisbee on the School Lane playing fields, cycle geocoaching, cheerleading, tennis and climbing. A number of events are free. For details go to www.charnwood.gov.uk/holidayprogrammes
BIRSTALL’S MP Edward Argar called in to a Save the Children Tea in Birstall this June. He chatted to Save the Children Volunteers Marilyn Payne from Warwickshire and Josephine Burgess about the situation in Yemen as this is one his particular interests as well as to other guests about current events. The event raised £510.
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
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News from the churches THE SUMMER months are always a popular time for Christenings and weddings and several of these have taken place or are planned for Birstall and Wanlip churches. Sadly there are also funerals, and a good number of friends came along to St. James in late June to celebrate the life of Margaret Suffolk, a long-standing and active member of the church, as an enrolling member of the Mothers' Union, Sunday School teacher and a support to her husband John, who was churchwarden for a number of years. On a happier note, the Parish Holiday in the lovely old town of Durham was a great success (as usual!) and a coach load of 40 of us enjoyed the luxury of a delightful hotel next to the river, with excellent food and hospitality to remember, plus a programme of interesting trips, visiting the magnificent cathedral and walks to enjoy in the old city. Many of the regular activities of the churches continue through the holiday period - don't forget Old Nick's Coffee Shop on Tuesday August 16 in the Church and Community centre at Wanlip. There may still be places on the previously mentioned coach trip to Newark on Wednesday August 17 so if you are interested, contact Sandra on 2677238. Plans for the St James Summer Fayre on August Bank Holiday Monday are well in hand. As the event is taking place from 12noon to 4pm volunteers would be very welcome to act as "relief" to man stalls or games, so Tony would be very glad to hear from you on 2675381 if you can help. We would all like to congratulate Angela Tarry, a former member of St James congregation, who was ordained a deacon at Leicester Cathedral in July and will soon be starting her life in the ministry serving as a curate at Hinckley
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Parish Church. From the Parish churches of Birstall and Wanlip
Resolution from The Methodist Conference The following statement was read out a most Methodist Churches, including Birstall, on July 10. As a result of the referendum on June 23, 2016, the United Kingdom has voted to leave the European Union. In this time of very significant change and uncertainty there is a need for leadership which seeks the common good and encourages people to work together, to respect one another and to uphold the dignity of all. The 2016 Annual Conference of the Methodist Church passed a unanimous resolution containing the following text. The Methodist Conference believes that the British Isles are enriched by diversity and celebrates the contribution made by those who have come from other parts of the world. The Christian tradition calls for respect, tolerance, love of neighbour and hospitality to the stranger. All bear the responsibility of speaking and acting for healing, reconciliation, and mutual respect. The Methodist Conference abhors and deeply regrets those actions and words which incite hatred and lead to the victimisation of groups within society and notes with concern that such actions and words have been normalised in recent public discourse. Believing that racism is a denial of the gospel and that to stay silent when others are abused is to collude with those who seek to promote hatred and division, the Methodist Conference calls: • on the Methodist people to challenge racism and discrimination.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is still required if you are selling or renting out your house. Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC
THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2016
HANNAH CLARKE FOR ALMSHOUSES The Charity has a vacancy of a one bedroom flat, well situated with an open outlook over the golf course, and is maintained to a high standard by the Trustees. The property is of a sheltered nature and is suitable for a lady of 60 years plus. It is situated in Park Road, Birstall.
• for a political debate which neither end (27th to 29th) the chapel at Stanton 15 demonises any nor leaves the vulnerable Lees in Derbyshire will hold its 52nd (the foreigner, the immigrant and refuAnnual Bible School. The preachers will gee) in danger of victimisation. be Geoff Thomas (Aberystwyth) - who • on political leaders to work togethwill speak on ‘The love of God seen in er for the good of the whole community the prophet Hosea’ - and Brian Gadsby putting the needs of the nation before (Derbyshire). The Historical Lecture on party politics. Monday morning will be given by David • on all those in positions of power Fielding (Derby) on the famous first and authority to hear the voices of those Anglican Bishop of Liverpool, entitled: “J. who have been marginalised and alienat- C. Ryle - Man of Granite with the Heart ed and to respond to them in ways of a Child." This event is always a time of which offer real hope for the future. good teaching and fellowship. Further The Conference now urges all Method- details can be found at ists to contact their MPs. Ask them to http://www.stantonleeschapel.org.uk support these aims, and ask how ChrisSunday Services in August tians within your constituency can help We are not able to use the Community them in this important task. Room at Highcliffe Primary School, As a result of this resolution, Rev Greengate Lane (LE4 3DL) during the Dave Warnock at Syston, (who is to be holiday period, so please ring for our new Circuit Superintendent), has venues/arrangements in August, when we arranged a meeting with Edward Agar often take the opportunity to join with MP. local evangelical churches for Sunday Coffee Shop re-opens on Saturday services. We return to the school on July 30 Sunday 4th September at 10.45am. If The Coffee Shop will re-open after the there is a Christian issue you would like Summer Maintenance week, on Saturday to discuss with us this month or you would like to attend an ‘Introduction to 30 July and then as usual from Tuesday Christianity’ short course, then please August 2. Friends who use the weekly contact the number below. coffee shop at Rothley on a Tuesday are For further information please ring reminded that it will be closed through0116 2214883. out August From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent New Appointments Baptist Church We shall be welcoming Rev Paula Hunt as a minister in our Leicester North Circuit, at a special service on Tuesday August 30 at 7pm at Birstall. Paula will have pastoral oversight of P/16/1617/2: 162 Birstall Rd – both Birstall & Rothley Methodist Church- convert integral garage into bedroom es in a part-time capacity. We shall also and erection of a garage to front of be welcoming a young man, James, who dwelling is moving from Berwick on Tweed to P/16/1527/2: 25 Harrowgate Drive take up a role as Children’s Worker in – erection of single storey extension to both Birstall & Rothley Methodist Church- rear of dwelling, installation of dores mer windows to front and rear and From Birstall Methodist Church conversion of loft to habitable space P/16/1485/2: 41 Beechfield Ave – erection of dormer window and flue Stanton Lees Chapel’s Bible School to side of dwelling Over the August Bank Holiday weekP/16/1421/2: 14 Roman Rd – erection of single storey extension to side & rear of dwelling P/16/1401/2: 54 Nine Riggs Square – conversion of garage to habitable PROPERTY REPAIRS space P/16/1457/2: 1 Knollgate Close • Plastering • Rendering replacement of flat roof to garage and • Painting • Decorating covered area to side of dwelling • Joinery • Fencing P/16/1399/2: 31 Gwendolen Ave – • Roofing • Tiling erection of 2 storey and single storey extensions to rear of dwelling 30 Years Experience P/16/1418/2: 5 Fielding Rd – the erection of a single storey rear exten0116 2362752 sion extending beyond the rear wall of Mob: 07816 322575 the original house by 3.578m, with a email: lozmason@ntlworld.com maximum height of 3.614m, and 28 STATION RD, CROPSTON height to the eaves of 2.4m
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Free parking PARKING IS free at all Council car parks in Loughborough on Sundays during August. The Borough Council hopes the move will encourage more shoppers to the town. Parking will be free at all car parks except Browns Lane.
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Birstall BAG’s cancer corner ly based on the results of two sets of studies - research conducted by the Swedish Hardell group and a very large international study called InterPhone but it's important to remember that IARC didn't feel this was enough hard evidence to come to a decision. The Hardell studies suggest a link between using a mobile phone and a few specific types of brain tumour, particularly in heavier users. The InterPhone study, which included over 6,000 people across 13 countries, largely found no link between mobiles and brain tumours, apart from in the ten percent of people who used their phones the most - but this could be explained by problems with the study design. Each of these studies has its own drawbacks, and they are also both case-control studies, that are less reliable as they ask patients and people without the disease to remember back over time about how and when they used mobile phones. But they may not be able to accurately remember the details about their phone use. And, more importantly, some people's answers may be subconsciously affected by their beliefs about mobile phones and cancer. Brain tumours could also affect
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rocketed since the 1980s. If mobile phones increase the risk of brain tumours, more and more people should now be developing them. But the numbers of new brain tumour cases have not changed very much. For example in the UK, the rate of brain tumours has changed very little in the past decades - and the very small increase we have seen is thought to be due to better data collection. However, brain tumours can take many years to develop, so it is possible that incidence rates would only start rising after more time. Is the radiation from mobile phones dangerous? There still aren't any good explanations for how mobile phones could cause cancer. The radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation they transmit and receive is very weak. This radiation does not have enough energy to damage DNA, and cannot directly cause cancer. In 2012 an independent report concluded that there is no convincing evidence that being exposed to radiofrequency fields, including those from mobile phones, within the guidelines could affect somebody's health. The UK follows a set of international safety standards, which restrict the amount of electromagnetic radiation people can be exposed to and have a very large safety margin. For further information: www.cancerresearchuk.org and as always University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189 For more information on the funds we have raised, projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk Contact the BAG’s by email birstallbags@hotmail.com Birstall BAG’s Registered Charity Number 1160190 Home Visiting Service Birstall BAG’s are establishing a Home Visiting Service in collaboration with LOROS and initially we are looking to recruit LOROS volunteers from the Birstall and surrounding area willing to support families in their own home in our community – for more information please contact Andrew Lowden andrewlowden@loros.co.uk tel 0116 2318470
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Cancer Controversies The media often report stories or statistics that can cause concern, even scare the public about the causes of cancer. Birstall BAG's would like to share some facts with you to dispel a few of the myths about the use of mobile phones. So far, the scientific evidence shows it is unlikely that mobile phones could increase the risk of brain tumours, or any other type of cancer. But we do not know enough to completely rule out a risk. In 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified mobile phones for the first time in their 'gold-standard' rating system. They said the devices could 'possibly' cause cancer in humans but there wasn't enough evidence to come to a clear conclusion. What does the evidence say? There have been many studies looking for a possible link, but a lot of them are small or have problems with their design. However there have been a few larger studies that, while they also have some problems, help to give us a clearer idea of where the evidence is pointing. The IARC decision in 2011 was main-
study participants' memory or cause other symptoms, like effects on hearing, that could affect mobile phone use. There is a more reliable type of study, known as a cohort study, which instead asks people about their habits and then follows them up over a period of time to see who develops a particular disease and then looks for patterns. There have been two notable cohort studies on mobile phones and brain tumours published since the IARC meeting. The largest study so far on mobile phones and cancer is part of the Million Women Study and included around 790,000 women. It found no link between use of mobile phones and brain tumours or 18 other types of cancer. There was also no increased risk for most types of brain tumour, including the two most common (glioma and meningioma). But they did see a raised risk of one rare type of brain tumour (acoustic neuroma) for women who had used mobile phones for at least five years. But in an update to the findings, based on including another two years of data in their analysis, there was no longer a raised risk of acoustic neuroma. And a Danish cohort study based on mobile phone subscriber data, which looked at over 420,000 people, found no link between mobile phones and any type of cancer including acoustic neuroma, other brain tumours and leukaemia. Interestingly, a case-control study on acoustic neuroma from a different Swedish group, published in 2014, suggested that people who use mobile phones are more likely to notice symptoms of acoustic neuroma, such as hearing loss, and be diagnosed. So mobile phone use could increase the chance of having the disease detected but not affect the chance of developing it in the first place. Research in this field is still ongoing and we will continue to look for any new evidence. Mobile phones and cancer rates The use of mobile phones has sky-