Birstall Post (467) June 2022

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

JUNE 2022

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 467

Driver’s sights set on Formula 1 A 15-year-old racing driver from Birstall has been invited to join a driving academy program and hopes to one day become the first British Indian in Formula 1.

Kyan Gohill has been offered a spot in the Arden Young Racing Driver Academy program (YRDA), part of Arden Motorsport, which has links with Red Bull.

Despite starting racing later than most, at the age of 13, Kyan won his first novice karting trophy in only his second ever race. Since then, he has continued to improve and has competed in over 70 races with seven podium finishes.

From his beginnings in karting, Kyan has also been fortunate to take part in various race scholarships within the Fiesta and Ginetta Junior Championships.

Since joining the YRDA program, Kyan has already proven his ability by exceeding lap times set by his peers that

Pics: Birstall racing driver Kyan Gohill

have been on the program for a year longer than him.

The program will see Kyan involved in a simulator, and on-track driver training, before starting his single-seater journey in GB4 in April 2023. He will then proceed through the ranks of Formula 3 and Formula 2 to finally become an elite driver and possibly the first British Indian to reach Formula 1.

Kyan has recently been offered the opportunity to compete in the inaugural India Formula 4 in November this year.

This involves 14 drivers,

seven local and seven international, making Kyan an internationally recognised driver at the young age of 15.

Off the track, Kyan commits his time to raising money and awareness for charities for Cerebral Palsy, Motor Neurone Disorders and most recently for mental health, by running 22 formula circuits in 22 days. In total Kyan has raised over £4000 for his chosen charities.

Kyan said: “ I have dreamt of becoming a Formula 1 driver since I was ten years old.”

With a promising future ahead, Kyan is looking for local sponsors to support him. Father Kamal, from Team Kyan Racing, said: “With motorsport being one of the most expensive sports, Kyan is looking to reach out to any potential investors and supporters that feel they would like to be part of this monumen-

Mark’s

PROFESSIONAL

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

County to find extra homes THERE IS a shortage of space for new homes needed in Leicester, so neighbouring district councils have agreed to make up the shortfall.

Leicester needs to build around 39,400 new homes up to 2036. Despite significant development of brownfield and greenfield sites across the city, it does not have the space for around 18,700 of these homes. It also does not have space for around 23 hectares of employment land.

District councils across Leicestershire, working with the City Council and County Council, have agreed to consider a proposed approach to the distribution of new homes and employment land to meet future needs which cannot be accommodated in Leicester.

A spokesperson said: “All councils in the country need to identify land for new homes and employment sites as part of their strategic planning responsibilities, and they are set targets by Government based on how the areas are expected to grow.

“However, in some areas like Leicester, there is not enough land available to meet these growth targets. Therefore, neighbouring authorities are required under current planning law set by national government to investigate taking on this ‘unmet need’.”

All councils in Leicestershire, including the city and county councils and all seven district and borough councils, are under a legal duty to co-operate with each other to ensure that any ‘unmet needs’ are met within Leicestershire. The councils have been in discussions over how to meet Leicester’s ‘unmet need’.

It has been agreed that the councils consider a draft document in the coming months called a Statement of Common Ground.

This document includes a potential distribution of new homes and employment land across the county and is additional to the growth needs that each district has to find land for.

This document has not been formally agreed upon by partner councils yet. All councils will consider the Statement of Common Ground through their own individual governance processes.

A planning steering group called the Members Advisory Group, which involves all councils in Leicestershire has recommended district councils consider formally approving the Statement of Common Ground Terry Richardson, chair of the MemContinued on page 3

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

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Continued from page 1

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

bers Advisory Group, said: “This is a significant challenge for Leicester and Leicestershire, but all councils are working together to ensure we do what is best for our local communities.

“It is important we deliver the housing and employment we need to ensure people have homes to live in and jobs. It is equally important that we plan that growth so it is controlled and limits the impact on our environment.

“Leicester simply does not have the land within its city boundaries to meet the expected demand for homes and employment over the next 16 years, and we are required by Government to work together on a local level to find local solutions.

“It will also be important for the Government to support this joint working with the necessary funding of critical infrastructure, such as transport, schools and health provision to support the growth.”

City mayor Peter Soulsby said: “We are making enormous efforts to accommodate as much housing and employment land in the city as we can, for example, with the ongoing development of Leicester’s Waterside and at Ashton Green.

“However, we simply cannot meet the predicted need for all the housing and employment land the Government sets out. That’s why we are immensely grateful to all our neighbouring councils for their constructive attitude to this Statement of Common Ground.

“By working together, we can ensure that agreements about where development takes place stay in the hands of local decision-makers who are accountable to local people.”

Councils must consider a range of factors when considering how to distribute the unmet need across the county.

Factors include the functional relationship of each district with the city, the balance of jobs and homes in each district, and deliverability of the distribution of development.

When taking account of these factors, it is being proposed in the draft Statement of Common Ground, that each district takes a portion of Leicester’s identified unmet need between 2020-36.

The statement of Common Ground proposes the 23 hectares of unmet need for employment land be met in Charnwood due to an over-supply of employment land and the availability of employment sites and land which is close to the city.

Charnwood’s share of new homes to make up the unmet need is 1248 over the plan period 2020-36.

Club finish season with trophy BIRSTALL RUGBY Football Club have won the County Bowl.

Joshua Black from Birstall RFC reports: Melton Mowbray 10, Birstall 37 Finishing off the season with a trophy is always a nice feeling. But Melton Mowbray pushed Birstall all the way, showing stubbornness in defence and, at times, some danger with ball in hand. Zack Minton and his Greendogs had to pull together and solve many problems to overcome such a tough challenge of playing the final on Melton’s own pitch.

However, the away side fronted up and got on the front foot early, settling the nerves and earning a penalty within the first ten minutes for an infringement at the ruck. Warner, in front of the posts, slotted the first points of the match and put Birstall ahead.

When another penalty near the Melton try line came Birstall’s way, it was time for a rolling maul. Luke Geary got his hands on, and with the help of his fellow pack, rumbled over and scored the first try of the game. Learning from a previous error in the maul, Birstall repeated this again later on and Geary went over for yet another score. A proud day for him with his family watching on the side.

In between the two rolling maul scores, a play from the top of a wellexecuted lineout saw the ball worked wide to Min Street, who is going from strength to strength alongside his brother, to score in the corner. A great moment for the two brothers to play alongside each other in a final.

The scrum was a hard-fought battle throughout the final. For the most part, Birstall managed to get the squeeze on, but the hosts had their moments and gained confidence. Melton Mowbray, who have played their matches in Midlands Three East (South) showed their

Pic: Birstall Rugby Football Club celebrate winning the County Bowl

toughness and grit to get back into the contest. After a Greendog player was caught not rolling away at the ruck, Melton brought themselves back into the contest with a penalty kick and asked questions of the away side as to whether they would respond or not.

The start of the second half was quick, and seeing as how Adam Woolley got the ball in his hands it came as no surprise.

However, he showed off his Messi like feet, grubber kicked the ball forward and pounced on the bobbling Gilbert over the line. Try converted.

Melton scored after persistent pressure on the Birstall line. But the substitutes did an amazing job to keep Birstall going as the dominant side. Jaime Monteiro had a huge hand in the final score, distributing the ball wonderfully towards Street, which then went back to Monteiro and eventually the hard-working Lorriman, who like all great wingers, knew where the ball was going to be and bag

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himself a try. Jose Monteiro converted.

The full-time whistle went and, after the third time of asking, Birstall won the County Bowl. An amazing moment for all involved and wonderful to see all of the Greendog’s friends and family come out to support. Without them, we would not be able to do what we do, so days like this are not just for the players, but for their loved ones as well.

We cannot have given anymore this season. Everyone deserves some muchneeded rest. We’ll see you next time for the 2022/2023 season. Who knows what’s going to happen, just don’t miss it!

The July issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on July 1.

The copy deadline is June 17.

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Crowds return to Birstall’s duck race

LARGE CROWDS and sunny weather helped to make May’s White Horse duck race one of the best ever, say the organisers.

Pics: (from left) prapring to launch the ducks: stalls in the car park; £100 winner Julie Miller

their stalls, and the money will be split between the Guides selected to go on various International camps.

“It’s going to be an awesome experience for the girls!” she said.

Birstall United under 10’s Foxes, in conjunction with the Football Card Direct Foundation, raised £237, which they say will enable around four kids who meet eligibility criteria for free

football to play and train for the whole of the 2022-2023 season.

Riverside PTA raised just short of £400, ADHD solutions raised over £330, Sea Cadets £145, The Bark Foundation

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

“This was the biggest duck race so far – it was amazing to see so many people come back and support us,” said Charlotte Foy from The White Horse.

“It really was a community effort, with lots of people helping to make it a special day,” she added.

The event raised £6767, with £4007 going to the Helping Our Community Birstall group’s pay-it-forward initiative, and £2760 going to other local good causes.

Rosie Rollings from Helping Our Community Birstall said: “It has been a great experience to be involved in the duck race, from counting ducks to meeting the stallholders. The atmosphere was fantastic, and every stallholder had a positive experience. It’s great when the community come together for a great cause. We look forward to supporting groups and individuals in our community. We have received some requests, and the admin team will be meeting very soon to discuss them. If anyone knows of any local people, voluntary groups or charities that require support or new equipment, we’d be happy to consider them for a donation from our funds.”

The White Horse car park was filled with games, activities and stalls run by local groups.

Gemma Lawrenson from Girlguiding Birstall said they made £633.50 across

Characters, Dance acade- 5 my all of whom supported the Duck Race with the donation of vouchers.

Thanks to Silly Prices for donating supplies, and a special thank you to Paddle Plus, without whom the Duck Race wouldn’t be possible, to Josephine Burgess for her support on the day, to Tim Smith from local company www.yourownprintuk.co. uk, who designed and printed our duck race T-shirts, to Katie’s Characters for her children's entertainment, and of course to everyone who

raised £200, Scouts received £142 in donations, the street party stall took over £300, The Boys Brigade raised £160 and finally the White Horse kicked off its fundraising for Skydive for Birstall bags making £213.

1384 ducks raced and there were more than 30 prizes donated by local businesses. The winning duck was number 379 and two winners, Aaron Whitaker and Julie Miller, each received £100 in prize money.

The organisers would like to thank: All those who kindly donated prizes, Real Refills – Hamper, WHITES Hairdressing- £30 voucher,

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

Pic: Ariel from Disney’s The Little Mermaid greets two young fans

Ruth Lambourne – Afternoon tea for two, RT’s for their meal/drinks for 2, Filigree Heart for the personalised mug, Donna and Leicester Tigers for the signed Rugby shirt and Prospecs for the sunglasses.

Weavers for their Gin Trios, Glenn Lewin of Sileby for the £20 voucher, North 42 for their Gin hamper, Thanks to Burleighs for their Gin Tour and glass, To Belvoir farms for the cordial and glassware, Rising Stars- dance classes, Birstall Jewellers- silver picture frame, Brunchies- voucher, New Moon, JB Kitchen, Birstall Pet Supplies, Stonehurst Farm, Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Birstall chip shop, Katie’s

Pics (from top): Alice Keeshan and Amy Diyar; the BBQ stall; Charlotte Foy & Rosie Rollings with Webster the White Horse duck

Parish Council notes

• Converting street lights on the Sibson Road car park to LED Cllr Marshall said the council made decisions collectively and • Carrying out a public consultation BIRSTALL PARISH Council’s annual not along party political lines. parish meeting was held on May 9. on providing an access gate at HarrowShe said the council welcomes gate Drive playing field to Hallam Fields Chairman Ann Marshall spoke about country Park. Cllr Marshall said this was constructive feedback and suggesthe Parish Council’s annual report, pubtions from residents. lished in April. It sets out the activities of being progressed and should be completNo one was available from the ed soon the council during the past year. She Birstall Beat Team to present the • Providing much-needed items for commented that she was surprised how police report.

Ukrainian refugees in partnership with much had been achieved in a difficult Crime figures for May 2021 – the Polish community centre in Loughyear. This included: April 22 were (2020/2021 figborough.

• Awarding £2543 to five local ures in brackets) were: The report identifies the following for groups from the community grant budget Burglary dwelling 24 (20) • Awarding £1943 to assist communi- 2022/23: Battery other 8 (5) • Explore the installation of electric ty groups helping Birstall residents Theft, non-vehicle 7 (15) vehicle charging points in the Sibson through the pandemic 50 cycle 4 (7) • Installing a new piece of play equip- Road car park Theft from motor vehicle 16 • Consider installing some permanent ment on the school line playing field (14) • Providing automatic access doors at commemoration in recognition of the Vehicle interference 2 (8) Queen‘s platinum jubilee the village hall to improve access for the Violence with injury 78 (93) • Consider an installation to commemdisabled Drugs 10 (23) orate the Covid-19 pandemic • Re-opening the youth café on the Officers have conducted 12 • To look at replacing/installing new School Lane playing field stop and searches, and 12 pieces of play equipment

vehicle/premises searches in Birstall in the past year.

Police priorities for 2022/23: antisocial behaviour on the School Lane playing field, drug dealing and vehicle crime.

Sean O’Hara, a community recovery worker from Leicestershire County Council, explained his role supporting individuals and groups to build resilience following the pandemic.

Birstall NHW did not send a representative to the meeting to present a report, and County Councillor Dan Grimley had sent his apologies.

Birstall's Borough Councillors did not attend to present a report.

In public session a member of the public asked if there were any plans to provide a public toilet in the centre of Birstall. It was suggested he direct his question to Birstall’s Borough councillors, that the parish council had no information on the Borough Council’s intentions to provide a toilet, but it could pass on his query to Charnwood.

In response to a question, Cllr Marshall reported that the parish council owned four defibrillators in the village: at School Lane playing field (which is the most used), the Methodist church, Kingsgate Avenue and Hallam Fields Community Hall.

A resident invited the council to look into ways it could encourage the provision of first responders in Birstall.

Several allotment tenants from the Greengate Lane site were present and expressed disappointment that they had not been consulted before the council made a decision to use the entire allotment site as an extension to the cemetery.

A suggestion was made that the extension to the cemetery could be staged, to allow a portion of the allotments to be retained for a further 10 to 15 years before it was needed for grave spaces.

Cllr Marshall said that the matter was at an early stage, nothing was set in stone, and when the council had any more information, it would communicate it to the allotment holders.

A member of the public commented that hedges bordering Meadow Lane had been cut back carelessly, leaving debris all over the road and that she was trying to find out who was responsible.

A resident asked how the Parish Council would assess its relationship with the Borough and County Councillors, and that when the council responds to letters in the Birstall Post, it seems to “slap away” questions in a “surly” way.

Cllr Marshall said that the Parish Council had a reasonable relationship with County Cllr Dan Grimley and that replies in the Birstall Post were to respond with facts, and correct inaccuracies. She said it would be nice if people gave us some credit, Birstall Parish councillors are all here to do something positive for the village and to work together. The council’s policies and procedures are excellent, there is a good clerk and excellent staff, she said.

The resident said the Parish Council needs a plan to improve its public relations.

Birstall Parish Council’s annual Parish Council meeting was held on May 16.

The council elected a chairman for the ensuing year. There were two candidates.

Cllr Ann Marshall received nine votes and was elected. Councillor Jeff Cassidy received six votes.

They were two candidates for vice-chairman.

Cllr Tony Abbey received nine votes and was elected. Cllr Tony Fowler received six votes.

Councillors considered a proposal made by Cllr Tony Fowler to spend £85,000, currently invested in an account paying a low rate of Continued on page 8

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

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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

Continued from page 6 interest, on a multi-use games area (MUGA) on the School Lane playing field.

Doing so now, he said, would save thousands of pounds because of predicted cost increases over the next few years.

Chairman Ann Marshall said the money was part of the general reserves which the council needed to maintain, and that the provision of a MUGA was not budgeted for. Expenditure like this has to be considered before the budget is drawn up, she said.

Cllr Thomas said he was aware of new government grants for measures to improve community health that Shepshed town council had applied for. He sup-

- but when these are printed I am very concerned as to why the Parish Council can reply to these letters and have their As a resident of Birstall for some 46 reply printed in the same issue - how years I have watched Birstall grow in can this be allowed - I would really size and become a flourishing village appreciate an explanation to this! Perwith many lovely shops and such pleashaps the Editor would explain? ant residents - sadly now becoming a Pat Herbert shadow of its former self except for the Some letters from readers about still wonderful residents. Unfortunately, it Parish Council matters include questions seems that a lot of out of town villages for the council, or criticisms. For examhave gone the same way as Birstall! Way ple, if a reader asks: “why has the counof the world apparently! cil done X?”, Or “why hasn’t the council I think the Birstall Post an excellent done Y?”, Or “when will the council do publication and really look forward to Z?“, It seems sensible to give the Parish receiving and reading it - lots of interest- Council the opportunity to answer quesing news and helpful information. Howtions or respond to criticisms in the ever, over the past couple of years and same issue as they are raised, rather prior to Covid I am becoming increasing- than let a whole month go by before the ly concerned with regard to certain issues raised are addressed.

Parish Council matters. Letters to the This right to reply in the same issue Birstall Post with regard to the Parish of the paper does not only apply to the Council - and there seem to be increasparish council. If a letter writer were to ingly more and more of these appearing ask questions or criticise another organi-

Right to reply

ported the MUGA project and suggested that financing it through grant funding should be the first choice.

Cllr Alcock said she would like to see a MUGA provided but felt that improvements to the BMX track and half-pipe on the Meadow Lane playing field should be a priority.

Cllr Howe said the budget needed to be updated periodically, not just considered once a year. He said spending £85,000 on a single item was excessive and that the parish council should be consulting the public on what they want.

Cllr Ed Marshall said Birstall had three playing fields and spending £85,000 on one site would not be fair.

sation, I would give that organisation the right to reply in the same issue, for example, a local school, a business or a sports club.

Jerry Jackson, Editor, Birstall Post

Plant pot appeal In last month’s edition of the Birstall Post, I put out a request for plant pots that I, or fellow volunteers, could use to support the Mountsorrel and Rothley Community Heritage Centre. I thought this might attract, at best, half a dozen replies or thereabouts…how wrong could I be! I had to turn down offers of help after 13 telephone calls, and in the end (or, more accurately, up to the point of writing this letter on May 12), I have received 27 separate offers of plant pots.

This is a phenomenal response and way beyond anything I was expecting. I Continued on page 9

We do need to maintain our reserves of mas, who had visited the facility. Cllr six months' expenditure, he said, and a Thomas said he was extremely impressed MUGA is too expensive for one site. by what he had seen and praised the Cllr Fowler said that the Meadow abilities of the youth workers. Cllr MarLane playing field had a BMX track and shall said the youth café was going very a zip wire, and nothing has been spent well, young people were engaging in on the School Lane playing field. positive activities, and the numbers atCllr Cassidy said that prices for install- tending were high. ing a MUGA were increasing quickly, The council received a report from its and it would be best to go ahead with new internal auditor who praised the the project now. council’s clerk, its policies and proceOn being put to the vote, the proposdures and said it was performing well al to spend £85,000 on a MUGA was above average. defeated.

The council adopted the new standard Councillors received reports from LGA Model Code of Conduct and made youth worker Anthony Marvin about arrangements for all councillors to atBirstall youth café, and from Cllr Thotend code of conduct training.

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

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Continued from page 8 thank everyone who got in touch with me. The plastic pots will be receiving at least one more use rather than just lying dormant or going to landfill.

I think I now have enough plant pots to last me some time but, if I run short again, I will ask you good citizens of Birstall to help out once more and support a much loved local initiative.

Malcolm Law

Bus stop In response to last months letter from J Woods. A bus stop was erected by Centrebus at the end of February on the opposite side of Sibson Road outside AgeUK. This was done without the required safety consultation with Highways and was quickly removed. After the required consultation was completed it was decided the bus stop would be best placed outside the funeral directors at the Loughborough Road end of Sibson Road. This was due to frequent congestion at the junction of Stonehill Avenue and Sibson Road. It was also considered that it would be dangerous for cars to overtake the stationary bus in close proximity to the Zebra Crossing.

A Martin

Why the fuss?

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

Who remembers the B.A.D. Birstall Against Development campaign? Why all the fuss now about a gate?

Hallam Fields Resident (15 Years)

Noticeboard all details printed free You will always get a friendly welcome at

Michael Glaysher & Gordon Davis performing an evening of classic Elvis songs.

Saturday June 25, 7.30pm De Montfort Hall Tickets £30, £25 from www.demontforthall.co.uk

eyes of nine year old Buddy. Starring Jude Hill and Judy Dench and mostly in black and white, this film is joyous and beautiful.

There will be a break from films during the summer.

"Downton Abbey - A New Era" will be shown on September 9 if the film has been released on DVD or Blue Ray. We will be keeping the hall well ventilated and there will be room for us to space out.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost the usual £5, which includes a lucky prize draw and refreshments during the interval.

You can pay for tickets at the door or pay in advance from Richard 0116 2363 066 or Diana 0116 2362 619

Friday Film Presentations In Thurcaston We are bringing forward the screening of “Belfast” from September to June due to the unavailability of “Colour Room” “Belfast” (June 10, 98 mins) Our June film won a BAFTA for Best British Film and was also nominated for many Oscars. Written and directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh, about his own childhood, the story tells The 1960’s Troubles, as seen through the

Riverside School

St Margaret’s Bowls Club We welcome bowlers of all ages and abilities.

Come and have some fresh air and fun in beautiful surroundings.

Contact Carolyn or John on 0116 2675947 Co-op Sports Ground, Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DE

A Brass Band Concert Ratby Daytime Band Present for your entertainment a performance of popular music – a Daytime Concert! at Birstall Methodist Church 1.30-2.15pm, Wed Jun 29 Please come along and enjoy the performance. No Admission Charge but there will be an opportunity to make a voluntary donation to the DEC Ukraine charity Leicester Symphony Orchestra 100th Season John Quirk conductor

Classic Elvis A new & unique Elvis show, with

Summer Fayre Sat July 2, 10am – 2pm We have not been able to hold many fund raising events over the past few years due to Covid-19, so we are hoping that the fayre not only brings the community together but also raises money for the school.

We are asking for stall holders to Continued on page 11

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JUNE 2022 Visit our website at: www.villagewatch.co.uk and join our Group on Facebook

Visit our Stall at the Birstall Gala on Saturday 18th June We shall have a range of Crime Prevention items, some for sale and others free of charge at the Gala on School Lane Playing Fields.

Unexpected Delivery?

Ukraine: Another Scam Opportunity

A Member has reported receiving several text messages, allegedly from a genuine courier company, advising them that they were unable to deliver a parcel and to click on a website link to re‐arrange it. They were not expecting a delivery and suspected that it was a scam. They made their own enquiries that confirmed their suspicions.

When you have placed a genuine order, you may well receive a text or email message giving you information about the delivery that can be very helpful. The problem arises when you receive a message of this kind out of the blue when you are not expecting a delivery and it gives no clue to what the order might be.

Clicking on the link can be dangerous. Often it will ask for a small payment to cover administration costs or something similar. You are asked to give your bank card details and the subsequent amount eventually taken could be considerably larger than you thought.

This and variations on the theme are a scam that is common at the moment. If you get a similar message, be wise like our Member and make your own enquiries.

Remember that the courier has already been paid by the sender to deliver the item. They cannot charge you extra to do so. The main exception is a Royal Mail letter sent without sufficient postage. However, they will leave a card in your letter box and will NEVER use text or email messages.

Scammers have no conscience and take every opportunity to steal our money. One ploy is to appeal to our generosity.

During the pandemic there were many attempts to trick us into donating to fake charities that claimed they were assisting the NHS. Now the same unscrupulous people have moved on to exploit the plight of Ukrainian refugees.

Many of us want to help those less fortunate than ourselves but we have to be on our guard to ensure that our donations go where we intend and not into the pockets of crooks.

Be very careful not to have your heartstrings tugged by unsolicited appeals from organisations you have never heard of before. If you want to focus a donation very specifically, do your own research to find a genuine charity that supports your particular interest.

If you just want to donate safely, knowing that your money will definitely go to help others, look at the Disasters Emergency Committee. The DEC is an umbrella group of fifteen major UK charities launched in 1963. It coordinates collective appeals to raise funds for emergency aid and rapid relief to people caught up in disasters and humanitarian crises as they occur.

If you search online for a government service such as renewing a driving licence or passport, you may well be offered links to private companies that will make the application on your behalf and charge you for the privilege.

You will have to fill in a form from which they simply copy and paste your details into the official form. Their fee for doing this will be in addition to the actual cost of the service that could even be completely free.

Be very wary which link you use or you could be paying someone to do something you can easily do yourself. Watch out particularly for links that have 'Ad' (for advert) alongside them. Safe links to most Government agencies and websites can be found at: www.gov.uk

Our Apologies A number of people who responded to our Survey asked to be included in our email alerts. Unfortunately, a glitch in the system did not ask for their email address.

If you are one of those respondents, please accept our apologies. You, and anyone else who would like to do so, can still sign‐up by going to our website at: www.villagewatch.co.uk/signup

Nuisance Parking We are regularly contacted by Members about poor parking in Birstall. The problem is not confined to any one area and appears to affect most of the village in one way or another.

Concerns range from inconsiderate parking, such as blocking driveways, to dangerous parking, such as on zigzag lines outside schools. The issues are, however, not the easiest to address.

The majority of the streets in the village are not subject to yellow line or other restrictions and anyone is allowed to use a parking space on a first‐come‐first‐served basis, even if it is directly outside your house. This can be frustrating, especially if spaces are scarce, and can sometimes lead to heated disputes.

Members’ experience suggests that where a vehicle is parked inconsiderately rather than dangerously, we cannot expect an immediate emergency response from the authorities. It is not always clear which authority is responsible.

Parking enforcement was once the sole concern of the Police but the responsibility has been transferred; in our case to Leicestershire County Council. If you have an issue you should first refer it there. However, the Police still have powers to deal with dangerous parking.

There is more information and advice about parking issues on these websites: www.leicestershire.gov.uk/roads‐and‐travel/cars‐and‐ parking www.leics.police.uk/advice/advice‐and‐information/asb/ asb/antisocial‐behaviour/nuisance‐parking

The Watch would like to thank Birstall Parish Council for its continued support © Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch – watch@villagewatch.co.uk – 0756 2422 756

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

Don't Pay to DIY

www.dec.org.uk

Continued from page 9 attend in return for a small fee, we also have lots of traditional games such as tombola, wine or water, splat the rat, a pre loved uniform stall, raffle, plus many more.

We hope to have a bouncy castle, a bar and hot food available on the day.

Contact: riversidepta22@gmail.com or via facebook

Crime and Punishment

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

A talk about Victorian Leicester’s Justice System by Caroline Roberts for Leicester U3A Tuesday 14th June 2022, 2.30 pm Christchurch Clarendon Park, 105a Clarendon Park Road, Leicester LE2 3AH Victorian Leicester was described as “one of the most depraved towns” in 19th century England.

In this talk we will hear of local murders and punishments, trials, prisons and executions. What is a gibbet? Why pay for seats at the Turk’s Head? Why is Leicester Castle so important in legal history?

The talk is part of the programme of monthly general meetings of Leicester U3A. The event is open to the public, with an admission charge of £2.00. The wearing of face coverings at the venue is encouraged

3.30 to 5.30pm 10th ,17th & 24th £5 each on the door.

Tea / Coffee included. Also, homemade cakes available We ask for donations towards cost of the cakes Further information contact Jackie. 0116 2248278 Mobile 07908607405 jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk

Birstall Flower Club Weds June 22, 7:15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstrator: Marie Bradley Title: From India with Love Visitors welcome £5 Queries to Sylvia 0116 267 4206 or Carol 0116 267 1437

Thurcaston & Cropston Open Gardens 2022 25th and 26th June 2022, 2 - 6pm Tickets are £5 each (accompanied children and wheelchair users free) and will be valid for both days. They can be purchased on the day from any of the signposted open gardens. Look for the fuchsia-coloured balloons!

Tea and cake will be available at various locations, and a number of gardens will be selling plants. www.tcog.org.uk

Birstall Tea Dances

After a very successful show in 2019, Birstall scouts & St James Birstall parish church are putting on a

Dates for June Held at Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road, Birstall, LE4 4DH

show, in aid of the church and the

Last Night of the Proms

Scouts.

Sat Sept 24 at 7pm, doors open from 6.30pm Tickets £10 per head on the door or if you get them in advance £8 person and £20 for a family of 4 (2 Adults and 2 children under 12. ) We are proud to have the Bilton Silver Rugby Band to perform for us once again And this year we are also proud the have some local talent, with the Heart of England barber shop choir We have also got the Leicestershire & Rutland pipe band to get a little bit of Scotland to the proms.

It will be all the traditional music and songs, & lots of flag waving.

If you would like tickets please phone 0116 2674031 07842336745 Or they will be available from the Scout hut on Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri evenings, or from St James church office

The live performances will start from mid-day up until 7pm. There will then be a short interval while the stage is prepared for the ‘Proms in the Park’ event, which will start at 7:30pm.

In this special jubilee year for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the ‘Proms’ music will be chosen to reflect this. The event will conclude with a firework display finale at 10pm (weather permitting).

There will be a number of charity, private and trade stalls on the field and several new free attractions for all ages to enjoy.

Organised by Birstall Parish Council

Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop June 25, 10amm-12noon.

Outside if fine, inside if wet *

Charity Summer Fayre

Birstall Gala Saturday June 18 School Lane playing field Admission to the event is free, and the fairground will start the ball rolling by opening at 11am.

Stalls – all raising funds for their 2022 chosen charities The Bark Foundation (Joy’s Jewellery) L.O.R.O.S. BMC Monday Group BMC Thursday Group Birstall & Wanlip W.I. & MORE! Jigsaws, Bric-a-Brac, plants, jewellery, cakes, raffle, tombola and anything else we think of in the meantime!

Please come along and support your local volunteers

11

NHW news

& crime report Keep Yourself Safe We are reminded regularly to keep our personal details secure to reduce the risk of identity theft, but we may be less aware that thieves are also after our vehicle’s identity.

The theft of number plates has become common, with the stolen plates fitted to other vehicles to conceal their true identity. If one with your stolen plates gets a parking fine, or is caught committing an offence, such as speeding, it is you who will receive the enforcement notice.

Equally common is their use on vehicles driven off from petrol stations without paying. They may even be used to commit a much more serious crime, when you will certainly get an unwelcome visit from the Police.

If your plates are stolen, it is essential that you report the matter to the Police immediately. This not only makes them aware that a vehicle with your number might be on the road illegally, but also provides you with proof of the theft. This is something that it may be more difficult to prove later when you are facing an unwarranted accusation. This is particularly true if the plates were stolen specifically for fitting to another vehicle of the same model and colour as yours.

It is relatively simple to protect yourself by making things difficult for the thieves. You can fit specially designed security screws in just a few minutes.

These can be tightened in the usual way

but cannot be unscrewed with a normal screwdriver. If a thief cannot steal your number plates easily and quickly, they will soon move on to another vehicle.

These screws will be available free of charge from our Neighbourhood Watch Stall at the Birstall Gala on Saturday June 18. We shall have other useful items designed to keep you safe, some completely free and others for sale at cost price.

Please pay us a visit to see what we have and find out more about our plans for the future. We are looking forward to seeing old and new friends on the day.

From Ed Chambers, Chairman, Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch

THE BIRSTALL BEAT Team have been conducting speed checks and investigating anti-social behaviour and thefts of catalytic converters.

PCSO Ellie Holland reports: I have been patrolling Meadow Lane and School Lane park after two reports regarding ASB in the evenings. Some youths were spoken with and no issues to report.

I have been engaging with the Co-Op, Wanlip Lane, Birstall this week focusing on preventing ASB with reports to the Beat Team that youths are causing some issues after school hours.

Two key signal blockers were also given out to an address and crime prevention advice was given to protect their vehicles with vehicle crime increasing. If any one would like crime prevention items or advice please do get in touch with us.

I attended the Birstall Youth Cafe on May 5 to engage with the children that attend. This is a great opportunity for children to build confidence and friendships whilst having fun completing different activities, such as sports, games and crafts.

A speed operation was also conducted

on Rectory Road, Wanlip and Wanlip Lane Birstall on May 6.

Rectory Road, Wanlip at 15:45 to 16:05 68 vehicles checked 56 vehicles driving within the speed limit 12 vehicles driving over the speed limit (10% plus 2) and warning letters have been sent out Wanlip Lane, Birstall at 16:05 to 16:25 37 vehicles driving within the speed limit 4 vehicles driving over the speed limit (10% plus 2) and warning letters have been sent out.

There have been four catalytic converter thefts, and two occasions of suspicious circumstances with three males wearing dark hoodies and face masks trying car doors.

There seems to be three males in a dark coloured clothing targeting catalytic convertors on vehicles within Birstall.

They have also been seen to be driving a dark coloured car. Please can I ask if you have any CCTV that shows vehicle registrations or clear footage of faces that you contact the beat team so that I can get into contact with you.

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Half Pints raise funds THE ‘LITTLE CHARACTERS’ at Half Pints Childcare raised £100 for a children’s charity.

By being sponsored to jump, crawl, run and cycle, the children raised the money for Sunny Days Children’s charity, which helps children with adverse medical conditions. A spokesperson for Half Pints said: “We would like to thank all concerned for sponsoring the children, and special congratulations to Jack, our star raiser.”

Pics: Children at Half Pints were sponsored for keeping active

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

12

13

‘Natural’ Renae earns award at gym “SHE’S A natural,” says Carl Gunns of new gym member Renae Stone (7) from Birstall.

Renae has been coming to Carl’s boxing gym on Birstall Road for four weeks.

“I like sparring best,” says Renae, who has been awarded a bronze certificate for her achievements at the gym.

Carl said: “She has impressed me -

she listens well to everything she’s told and does her exercises really well.”

Dad Ashley said: “Renae likes everything about the gym. She’s really active and would come here every day if she could.”

Pics: Renae Stone in the ring with her brother Bailey (11) at Gunns’ gym & (above) receiving her Bronze Awrd from Carl Gunns

Celebrate Queen’s Jubilee at Birstall Gala

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

BIRSTALL GALA returns this month on Saturday June 18.

This popular community event, organised by Birstall Parish Council, is back after a three-year break due to Covid-19.

“The parish council has missed not being able to host this popular event for you all since 2019 due to the pandemic, and hopes that you are all as excited about this event as we are,” said parish clerk Sue Coulson.

Admission to the event on the School Lane playing field is free, and the fairground will start the ball rolling by opening at 11am. The live performances will start from mid-day up until 7pm.

There will then be a short interval while the stage is prepared for the ‘Proms in the Park’ event, which will start at 7:30pm.

In this special jubilee year for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the ‘Proms’ music will be chosen to reflect this.

The event will conclude with a firework display finale at 10pm (weather permitting).

There will be a number of charity, private and trade stalls on the field and several new free attractions for all ages to enjoy.

Sue said: “The Parish Council’s Event’s Committee agreed that the Parish Council will not be asking for a £1

admission entry fee for adults this year this is to welcome you all back, and we hope you enjoy the celebrations.”

It’s not too late to book a stall. If you are interested, contact the Parish Council Offices on 0116 267 6191 or download

the booking form from the Parish Council’s website: https://www.birstallparishcouncil.org.uk/ parish-events.html Please note that for health and safety reasons, the council has a complete ban

on BBQs on the field throughout the event. Visitors are more than welcome to bring their own picnics, tables, chairs, gazebos, etc. There will be several hot and cold food outlets available throughout the event.

Helping our community ANOTHER VERY busy month, mostly taking Webster the White Horse duck around the schools, groups Co-op and Brunchies Cafe.

He did a great job promoting the annual Duck Race. There was also the counting of the ducks before they went in the water, the sale of ducks online and the coordinating of the stalls in the car park. Many local businesses sold one of the beneficiaries of their fundraising.

Many thanks to Brunchies cafe which did a great job selling ducks for the duck race. Also to the Dance Academy Director Gemma for the generous donation that we are going to use to start our prem baby packs.

their goods along with community groups promoting themselves. A brilliant day was had by all.

A massive amount of £4007.39 was raised for the #payitforward group.

We are very grateful to the White Horse and look forward to giving back to our community.

A record number of afternoon teas have gone out this month and were all a success. We continue to work on the ever-growing nominations list for the Jubilee teas.

There is a large red bin at the rear of the Co-op for aluminium drink cans for Helipads for hospitals. The group would like to hear from local groups that use aluminium cans with a view to supplying a bin and can crusher to support this.

The St James ladies’ Monday group invited us along to talk about things we do in the community. It was a lovely afternoon, and we are overjoyed to be

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BIRSTALL SCOUTS & Guides celebrated St George’s Day on Sunday April 24 with a parade through the village, from the Cedars Academy to St James church.

The scrubs team continue to make quilts for our hospitals. We also responded to a request for drain bags for lung cancer patients. Again the response was amazing.

An amazing crown post box topper was adorning the post box on Fielding and Park Road for the Queen's Jubilee.

Sadly this has been taken and destroyed.

This is the second time this has happened. A lot of time effort and thought were obviously put into the creation.

Lastly, a huge thank you to Bird Wilford & Sale solicitors. We thought the process of becoming a 'not for profit' group would be easy - not so. They helped us through the process and the opening of an account. All without charge. Thank you.

From Rosie Rollings, Helping Our Community Birstall

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Baden Powell chose Saint George as the Scout and Guide movement’s patron saint, as he felt the qualities of the legendary Roman soldier were the same qualities that reflect the young people in both Scouting and Guiding.

This was the first parade for

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St George’s day in the village and was concluded with a lively service at St James Church.

Many thanks go to Rev Amanda Digman for leading the service, the Hallelujah Mexican wave was a great way to say God be praised.

Thanks also go to the Loughborough Land Rover club for marshalling the parade.

Hopefully, this will now be an annual event.

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HANNAH CLARKE FOR ALMSHOUSES The almshouses 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.

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

14

15

A helping hand A COMMUNITY recovery worker for Birstall has been appointed by the county council to help individuals and groups.

Sean O’Hara says: I am a helping hand in the community to help both people and groups, that have been affected by Covid-19 in various ways, supporting individuals and groups who are struggling with isolation, loneliness, lack of confidence, fear of going out, health and wellbeing.

We provide advice and guidance to help communities to stay safe happy and well.

This is what I can do: Spending time to recognise individuals’ goals and aspirations to enable them to live their best lives.

Working alongside people and families to be resilient and maintain their independence.

Working alongside organisations and services to create opportunities for local people.

Helping existing community groups to flourish and support the creation of new possibilities.

Identifying local amenities to enhance community connection.

Wreake charity run on July 5

Support will be person-centred and tailor-made to meet the needs of the individual/ community.

Providing up to date Covid-19 messages through our volunteers.

Team complete ride Pic: Sean O’Hara

All communication and interaction will be kept in strict confidence.

We do have a duty to raise any safety situations or concerns.

For more information contact Sean: 0752 6928290 Sean.ohara@leics.gov.uk

WREAKE VALLEY Rotary Club are holding their twelfth Watermead Challenge charity run, sponsored this year by Dunelm, on Tuesday July 5, 2022 at 7pm.

Race Director, Dave Snutch, said: “This ever popular run attracted about 600 entrants last year. The relatively flat route around the lakes of Watermead Country Park suits runners of all abilities and offers the opportunity to achieve a personal best time.”

To enter please, visit www.evententry.co.uk. Further details can also be found at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk.

BIRSTALL’S DAVE Thomas was one of a team of seven riders who took part in the Alex’s Wish Charnwood Forest Charity Ride in May. Alex’s Wish is a charity set up to eradicate Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, the most aggressive form of Muscular Dystrophy that affects 1 in every 3,500 boys born. Alex’s Wish was set up by Emma and Andy Hallam (parents to Alex) in late 2012 to help raise vital funds to help bring about effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for this devastating condition.

This is the tenth year of the ride, and in that time, all money raised has gone into research into the condition.

Five riders cycled the challenging 50-mile course. Dave was joined by his two sons Danny and Marc, and his cycling partners Nev and Trev. Dave, Nev and Trev form Team ‘FasterThanNev’ with a combined age of 193! Also riding the 10-mile course were friends Steve and Graham of The Old Remedials. Altogether the cyclists rode 270 miles on the day.

Dave raised funds via his Just Giving page, and a total of £606 was donated to the charity by 20 sponsors.

Pic: Dave Thomas (3rd from right) with his team of seven riders

British Legion THE BIRSTALL Royal British Legion Club on Front Street welcomes all old and new members.

Bingo every Tuesday starting at 9pm Quizzes every Wednesday starting at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9pm Pool tables at only 50p Saturday Entertainment 4th June - Kimika (Duo) 18th June - Neil Elliott Lots happening over the Jubilee weekend including, sports tournament, stalls , raffle and tombola.

Room hire available for wakes, please contact the club for further information.

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

Swan’s lift home POLICE WERE called when a swan flew in to Harrowgate Drive and decided to stay, obstructing traffic.

With the help of Julie from Watermead Swans, the bird was put in a Police car and safely relocated to its home at the Hallam Fields ponds.

Julie said: “It sat as good as gold on my lap with polythene underneath just in

case!

“They are such fantastic and caring people in that area it's a pleasure to work with them. They were following procedures I'd given - ring the Police if they are on the road, which they did, and they phoned me too. One member of the public, who cares, felt confident to shoo it off the road.”

Pic: the swan returned to its Hallam Fields home

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16

WI postbox topper

BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI’s May meeting was at the British Legion on May 9.

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Furniture donated BIRSTALL BAG’s has donated a patio set to charity Jade’s Retreat’s holiday home.

Jade’s retreat is a small charity, set up in memory of Jade, who was from Birstall and sadly died of bone cancer aged just 21. The retreat offers families affected by cancer and special education-

al needs a place for a holiday by the sea at Heacham, Norfolk, Jade’s favourite place.

A spokesperson for BAGs said: “We hope that the furniture helps the families who use the holiday home to relax and enjoy a well-deserved break.”

Pic: the patio set at the caravan

Cricket club news AN ENCOURAGING start to the seasons saw the 1st XI with three wins out of four, the 2nd XI with two wins from three and Thursday night with three straight victories.

A newly decorated clubhouse was ready as the season began with sunny skies above. The 1st XI recently scored 310-3 in what is thought to be the club's record home score. Ben Drake scoring 95, Captain Jon Gaydon following up on his first knock of the season (83 n.o.) with 87 n.o. and Kahil Mann-Kler 67, Broughton Astley made only 130 in reply.

Other victories were against Countesthorpe and Sileby Town with a defeat against Oakham.

The 2nd XI secured promotion last season and have equipped themselves well in division six, with victories over Whetstone and Houghton & Thurnby, and a narrow defeat against Uppingham.

The Thursday team has won three close games, including Captain Prad Sood hitting the winning run of the last ball of the game recently. Weather permitting, there is always a game every Saturday - please feel free to come down and watch.

From Birstall Village Cricket Club

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

21 ladies really enjoyed hearing from our speakers, “The Game Show Junkies”.

Husband and wife Stephanie and Trevor Mee told us about the many TV game shows they had appeared on since the 1980s. We got to see their ‘Pointless’ trophy and heard inside stories about characters they had met. Their winnings even covered the cost of their wedding. They ended their talk by testing our general knowledge with a quiz.

Pic: The Jubilee postbox topper was stolen and vanSome of our ladies decodalised within days rated the postbox on Fielding Road with a crocheted Jubilee topper coffee morning at the Methodist Church which was unfortunately stolen a few on May 28 and celebrating the Queen’s days later. The base was returned but Platinum Jubilee on June 6 with afterthe crown seems to have disappeared noon tea at the home of Beverly Blackfor good. burn.

We are looking forward to our annual From Birstall & Wanlip WI

Runners complete marathons Birstall charity’s golf day RUNNERS FROM Birstall Running Club have been competing in marathons in this country and abroad.

In April, eight club members completed the Manchester marathon, having started their training in January. They were: James Gaydon - 3.08 (first mara) Katie Hill - 3.40 (first mara) Steve Hutton - 3.54 Hannah Askham - 3.57 (first mara) Kate O’Brien - 3.59 (first mara) Elisa Whittlestone - 3.59 Ben Naryan - 4.00 (first mara) Adele McGreevy - 4.14 Emma Burgin and Simon Cox ran their first marathon together in Brighton.

Emma said: “It was all about the finish line - not the finish time. 26.2 miles is so hard, but we did enjoy it, and we were very emotional at the finish line!

“I would encourage anybody to do at least one marathon, and if I can do it, anybody can”.

Chris O’Brien and Steve Hickingbottom travelled to Boston, USA, to run the Boston Marathon after qualifying at Boston UK in 2021. Boston USA is regarded to be the toughest of the six major marathons. Steve, who has completed 22 marathons, ran a personal best time of 3 hrs 29 mins.

He said: “Running my 23rd marathon with a PB was just a part of a perfect day for me. Too many highlights to mention but feeling strong in the final miles, soaking up the atmosphere and the amazing support of the Bostonians

THE BIRSTALL BAGs’ annual charity golf day at Birstall Golf Club returns on Sunday June 12.

was something that will live with me forever.”

Pic: Steve Hickingbottom at the Boston Marathon finish line with his medal

Jubilee celebration event RESIDENTS ARE invited to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in Loughborough’s Queen’s Park on Sunday June 5.

Charnwood Borough Council will host ‘The Big Lunch’ picnic from midday until

4pm, an afternoon of fun-filled attractions including live music, entertainment and children’s activities.

There’s live music from Embers Duo, a Carillon recital at 1pm, and the Charnwood Concert band will be performing in the bandstand from 3pm.

Visitors are invited to bring their own

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

On Saturday July 9, Central Park, Syston will host the event, organised

by Syston & District Volunteer Bureau.

The organisations represented offer social, cultural, sporting, educational, recreational, financial, medical, spiritual and/or emotional support to people of all ages, thereby easing problems and enhancing the quality of life.

The Syston and District Volunteer Centre is subsiding the event, which aims to demonstrate to all visitors that whatever their individual needs or interests, a local organisation exists to meet their expectations and requirements.

Chairman of Trustees, Paul Lomas, said: “Many of these organisations operate ‘under the radar’ with a great deal of work being put in by small but dedicated groups of volunteers to help support all sections of our local communities. With limited resources, they are normally unable to afford to promote themselves effectively to promote their services, attract members, recruit

volunteers or generate adequate funding.”

He added: “Too many local residents 'suffer in silence', experiencing great inconvenience, distress and loneliness simply through ignorance of what support is available locally. ‘Help is at Hand!’ is intended to address these deficiencies.”

The event will be officially opened at 10am by TV presenter, Anne Davies.

The Syston Town Band will present two half-hour concerts, and organisers hope to attract other local organisations to take the opportunity to demonstrate their skills.

Paul said: “The Volunteer Centre is happy to curate and organise this event, aimed at helping everyone within our local communities to realise just what a wealth of local support services is available to them in all areas of life. We are grateful for the significant donation we received from the sale of Syston Knitting Banksy calendars, which we are now happy to share.”

Any relevant organisation that would like to be involved should contact event organiser Colin Grimes for further details: sadvc@btinternet.com

Woodcock

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Volunteer groups ‘HELP IS AT Hand’ is an event that aims to showcase the work of local volunteer organisations in the area, that often work under the radar.

Teams of four are welcome to play and light refreshments will be provided.

There are lots of prizes to be won in the competition, and the raffle and auction afterwards. There will even be a beer buggy on the course!

First tee at 11.30am, last around 2pm.

The cost is £20 per person (members) or £25 per person (non-members).

Email jcandjac@aol.com or call 07737 168491 to sign up but be quick – there are limited spaces left.

Fresh Fruit & Veg

a picnic, chair and blanket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the beautiful Queen’s Park.

Councillor Jenny Bokor, lead member for Loughborough, said: “I am thrilled that Charnwood residents will be able to come down to Queen’s Park and have an afternoon of fun to mark Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

“The Big Lunch will be a fantastic opportunity for Charnwood residents to cap off the Platinum Jubilee weekend in style. There will be something for the whole family to enjoy, from fun rides, activities, stalls, food and much more.

“I hope that the weather is great on the day and that everybody who attends has a fantastic time.”

Alongside The Big Lunch event, the Council will also light the Beacon at Queen’s Park at a special event from 8-10pm on Thursday June 2, when a heritage plaque will also be unveiled to commemorate the day.

Residents can also share tributes, stories and memories about Her Majesty the Queen at www.charnwood.gov.uk/platinum. Submissions will appear on the Council’s social media channels and a designated page on the website.

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17

Fundraising family fun run around Rothley FOLLOWING THE postponement of Joe’s Jog in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic, it’s all systems ‘go’ for the return of this popular family fun-run mile.

The 7th Joe’s Jog will start at 6.15pm, just before the annual Mattioli Woods Rothley 10k running event on Tuesday June 7, 2022.

Joe's Jog is a mile-long fun run in memory of Joe Humphries, a 14-year-old Rothley boy who loved running.

Families, carers and young children of all ages are invited to join a charity mile-long fun run to support the work of the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust, (though children under seven will need to have an adult with them). Absolutely anyone who wants to join in the fun will

Writer looks back on a busy lockdown A FORMER social worker, teacher and care worker who now provides free careers advice at Birstall Methodist Church has been writing and publishing books throughout the pandemic.

wildlife photos and “Out of the Wild” became another book. But it didn’t stop there. By April 2021 I’d submitted two mostly humorous short novels, “The Many Sagas and Sayings of Horace Bear and his Merrie Bears” and “Tales of Finn, the Wanderer” which is largely a Robin Perry, (72), explains: “It was real-life account of an unusual cat. as simple as waking up one morning in In the twelve months since April 2021 late March and knowing inside that I I have had published 13 had to do it. I’d already more books which cover written a handful of them the following: “Through about the global impacts the Wilderness” - 70 of Coronavirus when poems about my time lockdown kicked in, so connected with the that was the start. By Sahara Desert; “For mid-October 2020 I’d Distant Lands” written 60 - poems that poems written about is. I also knew they had to Africa and South Ameribe published and FeedARca; “Through the Iron ead in Rugby was willing Curtain” – 4 poems to do just that. December written about the rise saw the book, “A Thing and fall of CommuBorn of Darkness” out in nism and my experipaperback. So was that it? ence of interrogation there; a book I felt a nagging prompting to continue of 30 mostly funny tales and experiences and pull out my old travel journal from caused by my dyspraxia condition; “Rislate 1972 into 1973 when I crossed the ing from the Flames,” poems written Sahara Desert, West Africa, the dangerabout Ireland; “From the Heart of Euous C.A.R and Congo Zaire, into East rope” - a collection of over 80 poems Africa and finally the then Rhodesia. It written while working in Slovakia; anothwas a journey of unexpected danger and er funny novel about Horace Bear titled landscape beauty, but also one of the “Who Else but Horace?” deepest challenges to my whole life’s To this have been added two books of faith and functioning. By mid-December, haiku poems and two of contemporary I had typed up the journal, “A Winter in poems, “Open Doors to Open Hearts Africa” with a series of maps showing and Hands”, another journal about travmy route and photos for each country. els in Europe, “Transiting Europe TransJob done - so it seemed. Not the case. iting Life.” The last book is a collection As 2021 came in the writing and of bird and butterfly poems with some publishing didn’t stop through lockdown. photos. My writing is attributable to a Three books of both short and lengthy God-given gift to write, describe and Celtic poems relating to the advent of communicate. After the last, twenty-first Christianity from Ireland, through Scotbook that motivation has ceased. Maybe land and into Northumberland followed that’s all that needs to be said. and which included historical, wildlife 25% of all sales proceeds will go to and story-telling poems. I then felt drivthe Open Hands Compassion Centre en to dig out a book of 42 wildlife and under One Church’s auspices in Leicesenvironmental poems published in 2010. ter. All books can be viewed and purI added 30 poems to them, different chased by accessing the FeedARead.com website.

have the chance to be part of the Rothley 10k evening.

Entry fees and any money raised will go towards JHMT’s ongoing work to raise awareness of SADS, and provide key lifesaving skills and equipment, including public access defibrillators to help create a heart-safe sporting and community environment for all across Leicester and Leicestershire. The JHMT also runs the Inspire Awards, a small grants scheme that helps inspire young people to fulfil their potential – something which the victims of SADS are cruelly denied.

Advance entry: £4 Child

(minimum age 7), £5 Adult On the Day entry: £6 Child, £10 Adult You can now register online: http://jhmt.org.uk/joes-jog

Open gardens event LAST YEAR saw the return of the Thurcaston and Cropston Open Gardens after a year off due to Covid.

It was a very successful weekend with a record number of visitors and a record amount raised for the Air Ambulance – over £3600.

Our chosen charity continues to be Leicestershire Air Ambulance, and we hope to help them raise some much-needed funds.

Like many charities, they have suffered over the last year.

We put a number of measures in place to keep visitors and garden owners safe from Covid last year, which worked well. Covid is still with us, so we may need to do so again this year.

Gardens will be open from 2 – 6pm on both days. Tickets are £5 each (accompanied children and wheelchair users free) and will be valid for both days. They can be purchased on the day from any of the signposted open gardens.

Look for the fuchsia-coloured balloons!

Tea and cake will be available at various locations, and some gardens will be selling plants.

We have a number of very varied gardens for you to visit across the two villages: some large, some small, some immaculate, some very much less so!

Some are new gardens, and some have taken part before.

But all for you to enjoy.

It is often said how welcoming our gardeners are, and they would love you to come and see all their hard work. Why not put the date in your diary now, then come along with your family and friends to support this great community event, and help us raise money for a very worthwhile cause.

For more information about this event, please have a look at our website www.tcog.org.uk or contact Linda on 0116 2363872 or email linda@tcog.org.uk We look forward to seeing you.

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

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News from the churches ST JAMES and Our Lady and St Nicholas has 'kicked off' with a new Youth Group for young people from those in year 6 and above.

Meetings will be held on the second Sunday of each month, at 6pm in Wanlip Community Hall. A programme of activities and events will be put together by the young people and the leaders, so can be as interesting and varied as the members wish. An exciting new venture for our two churches and our Parish, and a good opportunity for young folk to 'get in on the ground floor' of a new group.

Young people are also uppermost in our thoughts more than usual due to the ongoing horror in Ukraine, and where the 'Save the Children' charity is working to alleviate some of the suffering. To raise funds to support their work, there will be strawberry cream teas on June 11 and July 9, from 3-5.30pm. If you are interested in helping their work, further details can be obtained by contacting our Rector, Amanda Digman on 07803 6250349, or at revamandadigman@me.com.

St James Monday group is settling in to its 'new' venue in the social area in the church and at its May meeting had a short (and very nice!) service in the old church, with our Rector Amanda playing the flute to accompany our hymns. At this meeting we also had a representative from the Helping Birstall charity who gave us an idea of the scope of help that is available and can be given, from dog-walking to shopping, knitting and needlework - in a word 'everything'.

I know we always say it, but it is amazing how fast time passes, and now we are thinking about the August Bank Holiday Garden Fete. Life really is returning, isn't it, after the last two somewhat barren summers?

Ice-cream and hot dogs- a well-balanced English diet - and something to look forward to.

From Birstall Parish churches

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

Our Sovereign This month we are celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and all at BIBC join the nation and Commonwealth in thanking Her Majesty for her 70 years of dedicated service and wish her every blessing. It is clear that our Queen derives her comfort and strength from the Lord Jesus Christ - her King. In her Christmas message in 2011 she said: “God sent into the world a unique person – neither a philosopher nor a general … but a Saviour, with the power to forgive.

Forgiveness lies at the heart of the Christian faith. It can heal broken families, it can restore friendships and it can recon-

cile divided communities. It is in forgiveness that we feel the power of God’s love.” It is this Jesus, the ‘King of kings’ who is the subject of our hymns this month, hymns which are often linked with the Church’s celebration of Our Lord’s Ascension, marked this year on May 26.

Isaac Watts (1674-1748) wrote a hymn based on Psalm 47 – ‘O for a shout of sacred joy, To God, the sovereign King’. The third verse reads: ‘While angels shout and praise their King, Let mortals learn their strains; Let all the earth His honours sing; O’er all the earth He reigns.’ Thomas Kelly (17691855)’s famous hymn, ‘Look, ye saints!

The sight is glorious’ continues with the words: ‘See the Man of Sorrows now, From the fight returned victorious, Every knee to Him shall bow; Crown Him! Crown Him! Crowns become the Victor’s brow.’ He ends his hymn with: ‘Jesus take the highest station: O what joy the sight affords! … King of kings and Lord of lords!.’

May we, along with Her Majesty, enthrone Him in our hearts and ‘Crown Him’ as our King of kings.

Sunday Services You are most welcome to join us for any of our services, which begin at 10.45am and are held in the Day Centre next to the Village Hall (on the corner of School Lane and Birstall Road). Please note that we are not able to meet there on Bank Holidays, so not on June 5. If you have any queries, then please contact us. (http://www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk or 0116 2214883) From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

Easter This year we were able to observe Holy Week and Easter in the usual way manner after the restrictions of the last two years. As ever, the services on Maun-

dy Thursday and Good Friday reflected the solemnity of Passiontide. Then, at the Easter Vigil and Easter Day Masses, the church was bedecked with beautiful flowers, the Easter candle was lit, bells were rung and the stirring music of the Mass reflected the joy of the Resurrection. Fr Tom certainly earned his short break after an incredibly busy week!

First Holy Communion 23 of our young parishioners made their First Holy Communion on May 14.

Smartly dressed in their Sunday best (or should that be their Saturday best?), they each took part with the readings and bidding prayers during mass. Afterwards, it was time for lots of photos and then home, to celebrate with family and friends. Thanks go to the team of catechists who prepared them for this wonderful day. Next month, a group of older children will be confirmed by Bishop Patrick.

Madeleine’s Anniversary The annual gathering in Rothley to remember Madeleine McCann and all missing children resumed this year on May 3, the 15th anniversary of her disappearance. Fr Tom, along with parishioners from our two churches, joined ministers from the Anglican and Baptist churches and many local people to show their continued support to the McCann family. As ever, we keep Madeleine in our prayers.

Diocesan Synod Road Show At the Diocesan Synod Road Show in March, Bishop Patrick and his working party proposed a model of joint parish working, given the challenge of a shortage of priests over the coming years.

Notes on the evening’s presentation and a summary of a wide range of issues raised by parishioners have since been circulated. Any further comments can be forwarded to Nottingham.

Queen’s Jubilee There will be a musical celebration to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee on June 2, at St Barnabas Cathedral, Nottingham. Bishop Patrick has extended an invitation to Catholics across the diocese to the event, and to join him in thanking Queen Elizabeth for 70 years of devoted service to the people.

Details of all upcoming events can be found on the parish newsletter and website.

From St Theresa’s, Birstall

19

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Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Bowel Cancer Deborah James AKA BOWELBABE has been monumental in all she has selflessly done to raise awareness about Bowel Cancer. Birstall BAGs would like to reiterate some of the information and key messages Deborah has shared endlessly over the last five years.

Bowel cancer is also called colorectal cancer. It affects the large bowel, which is made up of the colon and rectum.

The cells in your body normally divide and grow in a controlled way. When cancer develops, the cells change and can grow in an uncontrolled way.

Most bowel cancers develop from pre-cancerous growths, called polyps.

But not all polyps develop into cancer. If your doctor finds any polyps, he or she can remove them to prevent them from becoming cancerous.

Cancer cells may stay in the bowel or they might spread to other parts of the body, like the liver or lungs.

Facts and figures about bowel cancer These statistics can only give you a general idea of how bowel cancer affects the UK population. They cannot tell you what will happen to you, as this depends on lots of things, like what treatment you have. Your GP or healthcare team can tell you more about your individual situation and how these statistics may affect you.

How common is bowel cancer?

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and the second biggest cancer killer.

Nearly 43,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year in the UK and around 268,000 people are living with bowel cancer in the UK today.

More than nine out of ten new cases (94%) are diagnosed in people over the age of 50, and nearly six out of ten cases (59%) are diagnosed in people aged 70 or over. But bowel cancer can

affect anyone of any age. More than 2,600 new cases are diagnosed each year in people under the age of 50.

1 in 15 men and 1 in 18 women will be diagnosed with bowel cancer during their lifetime.

How many people survive bowel cancer?

Bowel cancer is treatable and curable especially if diagnosed early. Nearly everyone survives bowel cancer if diagnosed at the earliest stage. However, this drops significantly as the disease develops. Early diagnosis really does save lives More than 16,500 people die from bowel cancer in the UK every year. It is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK. But the number of people dying of bowel cancer has been falling since the 1970s. This may be due to earlier diagnosis and better treatment.

If you have any symptoms, don’t be embarrassed and don’t ignore them.

Doctors are used to seeing lots of people with bowel problems.

The symptoms of bowel cancer can include: Bleeding from your bottom and/or blood in your poo A persistent and unexplained change in bowel habit Unexplained weight loss Extreme tiredness for no obvious reason A pain or lump in your tummy Most people with these symptoms don’t have bowel cancer.

Other health problems can cause similar symptoms. But if you have one or more of these, or if things just don’t feel right, go to see your GP. Sometimes, a tumour can block the

feel as though you're not fully emptying your bowels.

Weight loss This is less common than some of the other symptoms. Speak to your GP if you have lost weight and you don't know why.

You may not feel like eating if you feel sick, bloated or if you just don't feel hungry.

Tiredness Bowel cancer may lead to a lack of iron in the body, which can cause anaemia (lack of red blood cells). If you have Pic: Deborah James has been praised for raising anaemia, you are likely to awareness of bowel cancer feel very tired and your bowel, causing sudden strong pains in skin may look pale. the stomach area, bloating and feeling Pain or lump or being sick. This is called a bowel You may have pain or a lump in your obstruction. You may also be unable to stomach area (abdomen) or back pasempty your bowels or pass wind. If you sage. See your GP if these symptoms think you have a blocked bowel, see don’t go away or if they’re affecting how your GP straight away or go to a hospital you sleep or eat. accident and emergency department.

If you are experiencing any of these Bleeding symptoms, don’t brush them off, don’t There are several possible causes of delay seeking medical attention, remembleeding from your bottom or blood in ber EARLY DIAGNOSIS SAVES LIVES. your bowel movements (poo). Bright Deborah James, Birstall BAGs apred blood may come from swollen blood plauds you, thank you for all you have vessels (haemorrhoids or piles) in your done to raise awareness. Our thoughts back passage. It may also be caused by and prayers are with you and your loved bowel cancer. Dark red or black blood ones. may come from your bowel or stomach.

Please visit Tell your doctor about any bleeding so www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk they can find out what is causing it.

For local support and information Change in bowel habit about cancer services, please contact:Tell your GP if you have University Hospitals of Leicester Cannoticed any persistent and cer Information Centre on 0116 258 unexplained changes in your 6189 bowel habit, especially if you For more information on the funds also have bleeding from your Birstall BAGs have raised, the projects back passage. You may have we support, and forthcoming events, see looser poo and you may need www.birstallbags.co.uk or look us up on to poo more often than normal. Or Facebook or email you may feel as though you're not going birstallbags@hotmail.co.uk to the toilet often enough or you might

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Dementia support THE CEDAR Care Circle supports anyone who is caring for a spouse, relative, partner or friend suffering from dementia.

Its June meeting,will be on Monday June 13, 2pm at Brunchies Café, Hallam Fields Road Birstall.

Spokeswoman Barbara said: “Come and join us, we support anyone who is caring for someone suffering from dementia. This cruel disease is so overwhelming for the carer and the cared for. Don't hesitate to call me if you would like to chat.”

Call Barbara on 0790 576 0556.

THE BIRSTALL POST JUNE 2022

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