Birstall Post (471) November 2022

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

OCTOBER 2022

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 471

Pirate panto fun & frolics

660 NEW homes and a 1200 place secondary school are planned for an area of open space off Greengate Lane.

HATS’ REHEARSALS for its performance of ‘Treasured Island’ are making “fantastic progress”, reports spokeswoman Sue Withers.

There are pirates everywhere; noisy, secretive, funny, menacing - we have all sorts of pirates to keep you entertained in our next pantomime “Treasured Island”.

As previously advertised, this year's panto has been written by two HATS members, Elaine Hunt and Phill Walton.

Our prime focus is to produce a fabulously entertaining show that can be enjoyed by the whole family, young and not so young. Panto is a good old traditional way of providing muchneeded fun entertainment. We do the hard work, you just sit back and enjoy the show, and that’s how we like it. To see your smiling faces looking back at us from our audience makes it all worthwhile.

So, back to rehearsals and how they are progressing. When I said “fantastic progress”, that’s exactly what I meant. Fantastic progress in how to stress out the director, how to forget your lines, and how to forget to appear on stage at the right time. All of these things take Pic: HATS cast members rehearsing their next panto are (clockwise from an enormous amount of skill, and the cast gets top left) Heather Wilcock, Lorraine Nash, Chris Sutton & Antonia Follows better at it every year. Only joking of course.

Everyone is working very hard to develop their characters to ensure that ROFESSIONAL you all have a fabulous experience. For some of our cast, this will also be their ARDEN MAINTENANCE first experience of performing with HATS. Our regular audience might spot some new faces on the stage as we have several new members, who are making a TIDYING • LAWNS CUT fantastic contribution to the group, The cast can’t wait to help you share HEDGES TRIMMED the Treasured Island journey with them.

SUPPLY & PLANT ORNAMENTAL TREES Laughter, clapping and interaction are GENERAL PRUNING INCLUDING: APPLE & PEAR TREES totally acceptable, in fact, they will be 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE encouraged and welcomed. It just adds

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660 new homes

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TEL: 07903 614561 or 0116 2692805

Leicester City Council has identified the 48 ha site, called Ashton Green East, for development in its updated draft local plan, which was put out to public consultation in 2020 and has just been updated.

The plan says that deciduous woodland on the Ashton Green East site will be retained.

The local plan will now be considered by the full Leicester City council on October 11, and then put out for a final public consultation this November.

The plan also identifies land south of Thurcaston for 412 new homes. This site lies a few metres to the north west of the Ashton Green East Site A further plot of land, 4.86 ha next to the 17th tee on Birstall golf course has been identified as employment land, it has no highways access and is currently agricultural land. Other parts of this field have been identified for employment land as part of the Ashton Green development.

The draft plan states: “the allocation leads to the loss of green wedge but is outweighed by the strategic opportunity of the two sites, as a natural extension of the already approved and partially delivered main Ashton Green development [3000 homes]s.”

The draft local plan says the timeContinued on page 3

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660 homes continued from page 1 frame for the development is 2023 for the school, 6 to 15 years for the housing and 6 to 10 years for the employment land.

53 new homes were planned for a 2.78 ha site behind Park Road, adjacent PARK RD

BIRSTALL GOLF COURSE

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

HALLAM FIELDS SCHOOL

íGCR TRACK

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HATS continued from page 1 to the atmosphere and enjoyment.

And once again anyone who wishes to attend dressed as a pirate will have the chance to win a selection box, one for each of the four performances, with an ultimate winner who will be awarded a family ticket (two adults and two children) for our next year’s panto (2023).

This will not be a formal fancy dress contest, the director will cast a discreet eye over the audience during the shows.

Yes, all ages will be considered, children, parents, grandparents, great grandparents. Get your costumes sorted out and join in the fun. Who doesn’t love a selection box?

Watch out for regular updates in the Birstall Post.

Dates for your diary: Thursday November 17 and Friday November 18, 2022 at 7.15pm Saturday November 19, 2022 at 2pm and 7pm Doors open 30 minutes before each performance Venue: Birstall Social Club, 16-18 Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS Tickets: £7, £6 concession, £22 family ticket. (two adults and two children) Discount for group bookings of 10 or more people (price available at time of booking).

Tickets available now.

Box office: 0116 2209594 and 07948796675 Facebook: www.facebook.com/hatsamdram/ Note: The arrangements for our PANTO may be subject to change or cancellation should the Government Guidelines differ from the current status relating to COVID rules. We will endeavour to inform you of any necessary changes as soon as we can.

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to the railway, on land that is currently a part of Birstall golf course. This proposal has been removed from the updated draft plan.

The plan – which sets out how development could take place in the city from

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Pic: a site for 53 homes behind Park Rd has been removed from the plan

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now until 2036 has been amended after Government policy changes and a public consultation in September 2020, on which more than 3,500 people commented.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Every area of the country has to have a Local Plan, and they are the best way of giving local people a say over development, through locally-elected decision-makers.

“Our next Local Plan will run up until 2036 and aims to meet our city’s needs for homes, jobs, shopping and leisure. It will ASHTON GREEN take into account the climate emergency, the need to promote biodiversity and set standards of space for new homes, putting all of these into local planning policy that developers will need to follow.

“Our Local Plan will go before a special full council meeting on 11 October.

A consultation will then open in November to allow local people to comment further on the amended plan.”

Since the previous September 2020

SITE FOR 660 NEW HOMES & A SCHOOL

GREENGATE LANE

Pic: the site identified for development in Leicester City’s Local Plan

consultation, two strategic sites for development and 21 smaller sites have been removed from the Local Plan. The reasons for these sites being removed vary, but typically include representations from local people and stakeholders, availability of the site, the impact on biodiversity and loss of open space.

A total of 58 site allocations will remain in the Local Plan.

Government changes to the amount of homes Leicester is required to accommodate in the future - resulting in a total requirement of 39,424 dwellings - have Continued on page 4

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GP surgery’s plans to meet growing demand GREENGATE MEDICAL Centre is proposing to increase its facilities by extending its building to create seven additional consulting rooms.

Continued from page 3 also led to a rethink in how these could be provided. This will mean higher densities of development, together with a substantial increase in provision of dwellings on brownfield land in the central development area of the city. The plan will identify a total of 18,700 of these homes that cannot be met in the city which will be required to be accommodated in the surrounding county and districts, subject to an emerging joint agreement.

Peter Soulsby added: “Although things could well change further under the new Government, it’s vital that we agree a Local Plan so that we can control local development and ensure it is of benefit to our city. People will get another chance to comment on our plans in November, but it’s important to recognise that this is a consultation on the plan that is now being put forward, not a chance to ‘vote’ on whether a certain piece of land should be developed.

“After views from this consultation are taken into account, the final plan will be submitted to Government in spring 2023, where it will be checked and tested through public hearings by a Government Inspector before being adopted later in 2023.”

The primary care medical facility is currently one of the biggest in the south Charnwood area. There is a pharmacy provision on site, and the medical centre currently consists of nine consulting/treatment rooms.

A planning application submitted to Charnwood Borough Council states: “The proposed extensions are to create a facility capable of coping with the extreme increase in demand on the centres capacity.”

The plans are for a link between the main medical centre building and the pharmacy, adding additional storage space and a consulting space. An extension on the northern side of the building will add six consulting rooms and a first-floor extension, again to the north side of the building, will add a staff office and meeting space to complement the increase in consultation and treatment provision.

Pics: Greengate Medical Centre’s planned extensions shown by arrowed line

The landscaping around the building will be largely unaffected, the paths and gravelled planting areas to the rear will be adjusted to accommodate the new extensions and the northern extension will be built over the small grassed area that currently has a number of small

unprotected fruit trees.

There will be a small amount of adjustment to the tarmac car parking area, which will allow for the provision of an additional four parking spaces.

The main access to the site will remain unchanged.

The application states: “There is an excessive level of building in Birstall which commenced over 14 years ago with the development of the Hallam Fields. This has led to significant increases in levels of patients in the catchment area up until the present day, with no signs of this abating.

“The reason for the planned extension of the surgery is solely due to lack of capacity/space caused by the drain on the surgery's currently overstretched resources.

“The Medical Centre has been looking for funding streams for expansion to Continued on page 5

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

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Birstall & Wanlip WI 25 LADIES, including two visitors, met at Birstall British Legion on September 6 for Birstall and Wanlip WI’s first meeting after the summer break.

Our speaker, retired nurse Barbara Talbot, talked to us about the history of the Anthony Nolan Trust and the Bone Marrow Register. She was involved with the pioneering work of Leicester hospitals in collecting stem cells from umbilical cords since 2010, and since she retired, she gives talks to raise awareness of the importance of this work.

We did meet up in August for an outing where we were shown around Brooksby Agricultural College, and afterwards, we enjoyed a meal at the Flying Childers.

A group of us also met up to follow a virtual tour around Belgrave Cemetery, and it was surprising that despite living in Birstall, how few of us had ever been inside.

Vonnie and Andrea will be judging Birstall Bake Off at the White Horse on September 24, following WI rules.

As usual, members can enjoy plenty of Federation activities, as well as our local pursuits, so the WI has plenty to offer to ladies of all ages. If you are interested in joining us, come down to the British Legion on Front Street at 7pm on October 3. We do ask for £4 to cover our costs. This month’s speaker is Julie Kinnear, who will talk to us about the ‘Enigmatic Life of Coco Chanel’.

providing space, such as portacabins, these are not viable on the land and cope with this since the beginning of the would likely be subject to complaints Hallam field’s development, and over from the neighbouring houses as unsightthis course of time, there have been ly. further significant increases in develop“The increase in consultation rooms is ments within the surgery catchment area. an absolute necessity to continue to “Most recently, the Broadnook estate function appropriately as a GP surgery. has had planning agreed, and despite The additional space required would be having mentioned in the plans that they to house the 50% additional staff we plan to build a healthcare facility includwould require to service the 50% addiing a GP practice, this is not in the protional patients and to cope with the posals. As a medical practice, the pressures and requirements from any surgery opposed this development on the proposed new developments in the area. basis that, much like the promises of the “This is all notwithstanding that the Hallam Fields estate, plans to provide surgery should be expanding into addiadditional GP capacity in the form of tional roles as many surgeries are having additional medical centre provision has to do to be able to utilise the GP surgery. never been forthcoming.

At present, they are having to resist ap“The Hallam Fields development alone pointment services from roles such as saw an additional 2000 patients registerphysiotherapists, physician associates, ing for the Greengate Medical Centre mental health facilitators, pharmacists and no additional funds or section 106 and nurse associates because they do monies to expand to cope with this. This not have any rooms to house them. demonstrates how the current medical “An extension would accommodate all centre provision has exceeded its capacithese roles, on top of increasing appointty, through…the continual development ments across all doctors and clinicians, of the catchment area. which is a necessity with the government “Currently, the Greengate doctors all specifications and requirements for modwork four day weeks, or less, because ern primary care services. they do not have the room capacity for “The current building cannot cope them over the expected six-day working with the increase in demand outlined in week that begins in October. The surthe client’s summary of need. gery needs to be providing services from “There are only positive outcomes 8am to 8pm and 9am to 5pm on a Saturfrom expandday based on the current increase in the ing this buildcatchment. ing for “Without…having additional space for servicing the consultations and staff to cope with the over 11500 increase of workload/patients, it will be patients curimpossible to accommodate the services rently regisrequired for the local community. tered and to “Work is due to begin in November accommodate 2022 on the new Broadnook garden the 4500+ village housing development. This develpatients due opment is in the surgery’s catchment to register in area alongside only one other surgery in the coming Birstall. We are the closest in distance to years.” any other surgery to the development, Details of which means the majority of the anticithe planning pated 4466 people who will live there application (based on the 1950 planned houses) can be found will be registering at the surgery. This is on the planbased on previous experience with the ning pages of majority of the Hallam Fields developCharnwood’s ment residents registering. website, the “There is an urgent need for the extenreference is sion of space at the current medical P/22/1586/2. centre site to fulfil the NHS requirements for the volume of patients. The practice has looked into alternative means of

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THE ST JAMES’ church fayre on August 29 attracted a large crowd who enjoed the stalls, tea, cakes and coffee.

Pictued above are Michael Dawes with his daughter Lucille (5) and below are (l-r) Gwyneth Jones, John Evans, Helen Beardsworth & Janet Waters from Dementia UK

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Tributes paid after death of Queen THE SHOCK and sadness that followed the death of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was felt by so many in Birstall.

Only a few months earlier, the community had come together to mark the Queen’s Jubilee, with street parties and celebrations across Birstall that strengthened community spirit and highlighted the deep affection and respect that so many have for the Queen.

To give residents the opportunity to pay their respects, Birstall Parish Council placed a book of condolence in the Parish Council office for people to sign, as did local churches.

Special services were held at all Birstall’s churches, including a Requiem Mass on Monday, September 19 at Saint Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church.

Children at all Birstall’s schools made wreaths, created from their own personal

Pics: the book of condolence for HM Queen Elizabeth II in St James’ church; (below) wreaths made by students at (from top) Cedars, Hallam Fields, Riverside & Highcliffe

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Retired Police chief superintendent Chris Rollings, 60, travelled from Birstall

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Pic: Chris Rollings queuing to pay his respects to the Queen

to witness the lying in state of the Queen in Westminster Hall, and on the day of the funeral.

Representing his family of six children and six grandchildren, and speaking in the queue, he said: “I swore an oath of allegiance to the crown and served for 31 years so it is important to me. It’s a lovely atmosphere.”

Comments left in the book of condolence at Saint James Church included: “Thank you for your sense of duty, your commitment, kindness and humility.

You will be much missed.”

“Our queen for the whole of our lifetime, you will be missed. Thank you for your service over the last 70 years.”

“A constant presence in all our lives. A life’s work very well done. Rest in peace Ma’am.”

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New grocery store A NEW grocery store has opened in Birstall, offering something different to customers.

Bowls club on tour ST MARGARET’S bowls club’s annual summer bowls tour visited Scarborough on the beautiful Yorkshire coast.

These tours are proving increasingly popular and with 44 people, this was the largest group so far organised. We stayed for four nights in late August at Daish’s Esplanade hotel with its unrivalled views of the historic castle and harbour. On the way out we crossed the dramatic Humber Bridge and called in for lunch at Beverley, a most charming and picturesque town.

In addition to Scarborough, there are many places of interest in the area, so we were able to visit Pickering, Thornton-le-Dale and Filey, before playing our matches against the local teams. All the matches were played in a very friendly spirit but in all cases we came an honourable second. Better luck next year!

Our game is Flat Green or Lawn Bowls but as we were ‘up north’, where there are quite a few Crown Green clubs.

A good number of players took the opportunity to have a go at Crown and were given a very warm welcome at both Hunmanby and Scarborough North Cliff bowls clubs. Our taster sessions served The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

will be published on Oct 29.

The copy deadline is Oct 17.

to thoroughly whet the appetite for this fascinating game, but unfortunately Crown Green is not played here in Leicestershire.

Each year we have an award for the highest scoring player. Mick Ward was declared Tour Champion, being our top scorer by a considerable margin.

Overall it was an exciting and fun packed tour. Our thanks and appreciation go to the organiser, Pat Dobson, who's plans for next year's trip to Torquay are already well in hand!

From St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club

smcbc.com Pic: Bowlers gather on the terrace of Scarborough hotel

Birstall Groceries at 1 The Meadway sells exotic fruit and vegetables, lentils, rice and pulses and Indian herbs and spices.

It is run by husband-and-wife team Rajesh and Jully Shah (pictured above).

“People are coming in and saying they are really excited, as it’s the first time they’ve seen an authentic Indian grocery

shop in this area,” said Rajesh.

“We have fresh and exotic fruit and vegetables daily, and hope to provide some recipe cards in store soon, to guide people about how they are prepared and what dishes you can make with them,” he added.

Birstall Groceries also sells toys and household items, cleaning products and a range of Ayurvedic products imported from India, such as balms, antiseptic creams and hair oil.

Let’s not let this monumental event in our history pass by and revert to this pathetic selfishness which seems to be the norm for the past 12 years.

Birstall Parish Council. Get a grip and lead positively like we expect good leaders to behave Colin Cooper

Disappointed

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 email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Get a grip The recent articles in the post about the failure to agree on the installation of a speed indicator, the resignation of Councillor Thomas and recommendations from Charnwood for a governance review just gives the impression of pettiness and superiority from some members of the Parish Council. Look at the other lovely positive stories in the post and see how it just depresses and brings the village down.

The passing of our Queen gives us all an opportunity to reflect on our own behaviours and should spur us all to contribute more to society.

I was very disappointed to read your report that the Parish Council will not be taking up the offer of a Vehicle Activated Speed Sign from the County Council.

This is most puzzling as the main reason given is that ongoing costs, falling to the Parish Council, are unknown. If this is the case, then surely the right thing to do was defer a decision until probable costs are known.

My information is that these costs are likely to be minimal, so can I suggest that the Parish Council takes another look? If this money is not accepted by Birstall, presumably it will go to other parishes.

On the point as to whether such measures are needed, may I invite any doubters to stand outside my house so they can see the speed and quantity of traffic for themselves.

Sam Dobson Greengate Lane resident

No confidence Having just received this month's copy of the Birstall Post, a fantastic little read, by the way, I read with dismay that again the bumbling Parish Council have

yet again struck. Why on earth would you turn something down that would save lives, of course I mean the VAS vehicle activated sign, on the grounds of the maintenance cost? And the fact that other residents may like and want their own on their street? Did I read that correctly please, what maintenance cost, if it was damaged by another vehicle then you claim off the insurance of the driver, the only cost I can foresee is that it may need a wash every now and again, the vote was equal so the chair has the casting vote so instead of voting for the people she votes for herself and now it will not get installed.

No wonder councillor Mr David Thomas has resigned, he states “I have found the last 15 months as a parish councillor challenging and unrewarding and fraught with frustration over the way the body conducts itself. Other bodies are routinely criticised and their advice ignored and ridiculed.” This speaks volumes of how the parish council have been conducting themselves over the past few years, why turn something down for free and then ask for an investment grant for yet another area for the local kids to smoke pot in, the smell of the weed next to the enclosed play area for the little ones on School Lane is sometimes unusable due to the smell of weed.

And as for the treatment of Councillor Thomas and his honesty and integrity just means that he had the audacity to say no from time to time, this is a classic manoeuvre by the petty-minded to get rid of somebody that disagrees with you, it’s such a shame that somebody

who wanted to do good for the parish is treated so poorly, I feel a vote of no confidence should be brought against the parish council for bringing the fine town of Birstall in name and a timewasting organisation as a parish council, who only vote for their benefit and not the benefit of the residents of the town/village of this wonderful place called Birstall.

I hope this letter will help the people of Birstall to stand up to the parish council and say enough is enough, give us what we need and want for our benefit, not yours.

David Headley

Concerned After serving as clerk of the Council for 25 years, I have always read with interest the Parish Council Notes in the Post since my retirement. However, I have become increasingly concerned during the last two years or so about the direction of the Council, and was appalled when I read in September’s issue of the resignation of another Councillor citing frustration and that “other bodies are routinely criticised and their advice ignored or ridiculed”.

Reading further, complaints by the Parish Council about two Councillors were not upheld and yet the Council refused to put into effect the recommendations made by Charnwood’s Member Council Panel. I would have thought that to do so would serve the Council well as it is going for the NALC gold quality award, and wonder why it was definitely “thrown out”.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

YOUR SAY...

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

For many years our Borough Council- running through from Thurcaston Road all the evidence and information. lors and one County Councillor also (sorry, Ashton Green Road!) to the main If Leicestershire County Council issues served as Parish Councillors, thus giving A6, therefore any request from other £25,000 to each of their 55 County a link between all three tiers of Local roads could reasonably be refused.

Councillor’s, which would amount to Government for the benefit of Birstall as Ashton Green - as pointed out by Cllr £1,375,000. Perhaps a rethink by Leicesa whole. Two of those Councillors Cassidy - will further increase traffic on tershire County Council on this funding served as Mayor of Charnwood – Mrs the Lane as development takes place. is required to enable them to spend Margaret Ward and Mr Ernest Shardlow.

It could soon become risky, if not some of it or all of it to meet their reAlthough members were usually elected dangerous, to attempt a right turn onto sponsibilities for road safety. according to their political allegiance, all the Lane from the side roads. Do we County Councillor Grimley’s reply to a worked well together without animosity, really want a tragic/fatal accident for posting on social media is side stepping despite having different opinions on a want of, probably, minor maintenance the issue by encouraging you all to lobby number of issues, ensuring they achieved charges on a speed sign? the Parish Council to hold a consultation the best for ALL residents. Birstall is able on a matter that is not their responsibiliDoreen Wilson to punch above its weight, but only if ty, and his response implies that the Members work together and have good fault lies with the Parish Council. This is Council’s response relations with the Borough and County not the case. If residents want a VAS Councils.

Birstall Parish Council were invited to sign, then it is County Councillor GrimAnother matter raised also gives cause respond to the letters from Mr C Cooper, ley’s duty to take your concerns and for concern. May I ask how many Coun- Mr D Headley, and Mrs D Wilson. Birrequests where they belong, Leicestercillors use Greengate Lane every day or shire County Council as the Highway’s stall Parish Council’s response is set out very regularly? It is not only the speed of below.

Authority. vehicles that is very worrying but also The first Councillor to resign from the Leicestershire County Council are the the large increase in the amount of trafParish Council did so due to leaving the Highways authority and are responsible fic using the Lane this year. A few days area and in fact sent in a complimentary for the condition and safety of the roads ago my daughter was waiting to cross letter to the Chair which was read out at that we all use.

Greengate Lane but had to move back the council meeting. It is not considThe Vehicle Activated Signs that have onto someone’s driveway as a huge lorry been installed on Birstall Road and in ered that a response to the author’s – which obviously exceeded the weight comments regarding Mr Thomas’s resigWanlip have been installed by Leicesterrestriction - had great difficulty turning shire County Council who own and main- nation is required, Mr Thomas publicly into Greengate Lane from Loughborough tain them. They do not belong to the made his personal reasons known for Road and mounting the pavement (the resigning and exercised his right to do Parish Council. route presumably directed by his satCounty Councillor D Grimley proceed- so. nav). The Parish Council, therefore, The allegations of drug taking activity ed with putting the Parish Council forneeds to bring pressure to bear on the on School Lane playing fields should be ward for a VAS sign without any County Council and Police to ensure that consultation with the Parish Council. reported to the Police at the time it is weight restrictions are adhered to as Part of the criteria for a County Coun- happening to enable them to take the well as speed controlled. Reading the appropriate action. Concerns regarding cillor to be able to assign any of their Notes, it appears the Parish Council did speeding and HGVs on Greengate Lane £25,000 membership fund grant is that not make any effort to ascertain the should be addressed with the Police and they undertake a consultation on the maintenance costs of the speed sign, Leicestershire County Council. matter to evidence that there is a need especially as there is one in Wanlip, the It should be made clear that the Parfor the spend. The Parish Council made maintenance costs of which are presuma- several requests for this evidence to ish Council notes published in the Birbly met by the Parish Meeting. I also show them that there was an overwhelm- stall Post are not the official record of refute the suggestion by Cllr Ann Marthe meeting, they are the editor’s journaling need for a sign on Greengate Lane, shall that putting a sign on Greengate unfortunately, this has never been provid- istic take on the proceedings. To get a Lane “would set a precedent” and other clear understanding of how the Parish ed by Leicestershire County Council streets may request one! I would like to officers or County Councillor Grimley.

Council conducts its business it may be point out, for anyone who is unaware, Therefore, the Parish Council were being more beneficial for residents to attend that Greengate Lane is the only road the meetings and get a better understandasked to commit to this without seeing

ing rather than believe everything that is printed in the newspaper. They can always contact the office or speak to a parish Councillor.

Birstall Parish Council

Child exploitation Thousands of children and young people are subjected to horrific exploitation and abuse across the UK every year.

Predators groom children in person and online, then exploit them for sex or use terrifying threats and violence to force them into crimes such as money laundering or carrying drugs in ‘county lines’ operations. Some are forced to work in premises like car washes and nail bars, or to beg.

Any child in any community, including boys, girls and trans and non-binary children can be targeted for all types of exploitation.

In the East Midlands in 2020/21, child sexual exploitation was identified as a risk in 1,410 assessments of children referred to social services, while children going missing, which can also be a sign of young people being coerced into crime, was a factor in 940 instances.

Gang involvement was highlighted in 860 assessments, and in 190 instances trafficking was deemed to be a factor - both are indicators of exploitation.

However, many children are too scared to tell adults what is happening or may not trust the services that are meant to protect them. That’s why during the week of Monday 3 October, The Children’s Society is running a ‘Look Closer’ Awareness Week.

The Children’s Society’s #Look Closer campaign, which is supported by the National Police Chiefs Council and forces including the British Transport Police, urges not only professionals and parents, but also the public and businesses to be vigilant for signs of child exploitation Continued on page 11

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

Energy Bills If you are struggling to pay you gas and electricity bills do not just ignore them in the hope that they will simply go away, because they will not.

Contact your Energy Supplier as soon as you can to explain your predicament so that they can do what they can to help.

If they do not hear from you, they will treat you like a normal customer who has not paid their bill.

Protecting Young People

Bullying

The new academic year will have seen many children and young people facing new situations and challenges. Those starting school for the first time should be in a well‐ protected environment where problems and issues can be easily identified and addressed but this will be less so for those moving up to secondary school and even less for those starting college and university.

The vast majority make the transition successfully but this does not stop parents worrying about the possible risks their children may be facing.

The Fearless scheme introduces young people to the services offered by Crimestoppers in a way that they can understand.

It has its own specially designed app and website that contains a wealth of information about crime, drugs and similar problems that can affect them. It gives guidance about how they can pass on information that might be worrying them completely anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or filling out a simple form on‐line.

The National Union of Students (NUS) has a lot of useful advice about personal safety for those going into further or higher education on its website:

Bullying is an issue for all age groups and can have a serious effect on victims if it is not tackled early. Fortunately, there is a lot of support and advice available for parents and young people to help them deal with the problem.

There is no legal definition of bullying but it is usually defined as behaviour that is: • repeated • intended to hurt somebody physically or emotionally • often aimed at certain groups because of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation etc.

It can take many forms including: • physical assault • teasing • making threats • name calling • cyber‐bullying by mobile phone or online, such as email, social networking and instant messaging • some bullying might be a criminal offence that can be reported to the Police Go to the official Government website where you will find lots of information and up‐to‐date links to reputable anti‐ bullying organisations who can help:

www.nus.org.uk/en/student‐advice‐information

www.gov.uk/bullying‐at‐school

Support is Always Available

Our Local Beat Team

The Covid lockdown put a strain on individuals and relationships that led to many people turning to support services for advice and support. As those times fade into the background, the impending cost of living crisis is replacing them with a vengeance.

Concern about jobs and money are common to most people but someone's personal circumstances can call for a specific kind of understanding that might not be available in their everyday circles. This can leave many people feeling alone, unsupported and even desperate.

Helplines can, quite literally, be life‐savers for people who can find nowhere else to turn.

In September 2020 we published a list of support organisations and their contact details in our newsletter and it has been suggested that we do so again. Space makes that difficult but all that information and more is available on our website at:

There have been recent changes to the Beat Team covering Birstall and Wanlip.

At the end of July, PC Lauren de Wet moved from the Team to join the Charnwood Rural Crime Team and has now been replaced by PC Rob Crane.

We would like to wish Lauren every success in her new role and to welcome Rob to our villages.

PCSO Ellie Holland remains in the Team and has become a familiar sight patrolling our streets.

If you meet any of them out on patrol, please say hello and have a chat with them.

www.villagewatch.co.uk/phone‐numbers

Saturday 15th October, 10 am to 12 noon Robert Dickinson Building, Sibson Road

from where you can also download a printable copy of the list.

You can find a wealth of information with advice and links that cover a whole range of issues and situations that people may be facing at:

www.supportline.org.uk/problems/

Our Advice Shop has Re‐opened (Next to the Public Car Park opposite the Garden Centre)

See our range of free and 'at cost' security items and take the opportunity to renew your Watch Membership

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 OCTOBER 2022

www.fearless.org

Continued from page 9 and abuse and report any concerns.

Everyone, from commuters, and online gamers, to shoppers and people working in public-facing roles, such as transport, shop and hotel staff, can play their part.

This winter, the cost of living crisis and financial pressures facing families may leave some children particularly vulnerable to grooming by perpetrators who offer them cash, food and gifts.

Young victims may also be targeted with offers of drugs, friendship, love, status and even gaming credits.

Signs of exploitation could include children having large amounts of cash or unexplained gifts; appearing under the control of others; looking lost; or travelling alone at night. Children may seem upset, anxious or scared, but trauma can also make them appear angry or aggressive.

Anyone worried about a child should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. If there is an immediate risk to a child dial 999.

If you are on a train text British Transport Police on 61016. Further advice is available from the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800500.

It’s better to report a concern that proves unfounded than to miss the chance to help a child escape horrific abuse while also giving police the chance to bring those exploiting them to justice.

Mark Russell Chief Executive, The Children’s Society

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

A tribute A tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, our lovely, beloved, longest-reigning monarch.

England was your birthplace but your Mother a Scot, thus your English/Scottish heritage – Britannic Learnt to drive in the army during wartime days and swiftly qualified as engine mechanic Internationally oft times you did travel, meeting Heads of State with friendship you did impress Zealous with young aged pledge to serve with faith through life, showed care, voiced optimism in times of crisis, stress Animals you loved, having many Corgi dogs, horses you raced, whilst others you rode with kind skill Balmoral you did enjoy, spending holidays there, walking, riding, driving o’er green glens and uphill Entering in the spirit of the Braemar Games, as elsewhere, thrilling those whom you did warmly meet This Platinum Jubilee, your year so unique, meeting Paddington Bear brought smiles, you found him sweet Head of the Commonwealth: you built, ensured firm bonds, with common touch for all ages, faiths, praise your high mark Rest in peace: thank you so much for your wise service, our lovely, beloved, longest reigning monarch Jex Woods The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Oct 29.

The copy deadline is Oct 17.

Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Utd Home Fixtures October 01/10/22: Rainworth Miners Welfare FC 11/10/22: Kirby Muxloe FC 15/10/22: Dunkirk FC November 05/11/22: Southwell City FC 12/11/22: Grantham Town FC 26/11/22: Hucknall Town FC

Halloween Cafe & Stalls Saturday Oct 29, 2pm to 4pm at Birstall Scout Hall, Birstall Road (next to Gunns Gym) Family event with hot and cold drinks, cakes, craft stalls, tombola, games and dressing up box.

Fundraising event held by local families, in aid of ADHD Solutions, Leicester

Birstall Royal British Legion Club All old and new members will be very welcome Bingo every Tuesday starting at 9pm Quizzes every Wednesday starting at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9pm Music quiz on Oct 28, 8pm Pool tables at only 50p Saturday Entertainment Oct 8 Steve Raffles Oct 22 Steve Sinatra Room hire available for Wakes.

Ring Karen on 07894715049

Learn To Dance New Beginners class for Ballroom & Latin dancing Starting Thursday 6th October 2022 7.15 - 8.15pm , 4 weeks @ £30 Held at Thurmaston Memorial Hall 722 Melton Road,Thurmaston LE4 8BD Further Information Contact Jackie: Mobile 07908607405 Email: jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk

Birstall Methodist Thursday Ladies’ Group Programme for October 2pm in the Coffee Shop Oct 6: ‘Smile Please, say cheese’, Ian Rogerson Oct 13: Harvest Festival Oct 20: Quiz Time Oct 27: Slides with Peter Watson Come and join us, and have a cup of tea

Birstall Flower Club Weds 26th October 2022, 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstrator: Emma Remington Title: As we go down to the Woods Visitors welcome £5 Queries to Sylvia 0116 267 4206 or Carol 0116 267 1437 Birstall Methodist Church

Christmas Festival 2022 My Christmas Decorated trees in the Church

Free Admission Donations welcome to Christians against Poverty Friday 25th Nov 10am - 6pm Saturday 26th Nov 10am - 2pm Santa’s Grotto Decorations & crafts - Toys & Lucky Dip Tombola - Raffle - Christmas gifts Vintage items, books & jigsaws Homemade cakes & preserves Craft Fayre Pancakes & Hot Dogs Friday from 3pm Refreshments Friday & Saturday from 10am Please bring cash, cards cannot be accepted Birstall United Football Club

Band Night Saturday 8th October 2022 Tickets £10 - Doors Open 7.30pm @BIRSTALL SOCIAL CLUB Featuring: Misfits + Rascals Weirdfish - Classic Rock Malpractice Dr Feel Good Tribute Tickets available via Birstall Utd FC or Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane, Birstall You are most welcome to join us for our

Harvest Thanksgiving and 40th Church Anniversary Service, Sunday, 23rd Oct 2022 at 10.45am Venue: The Day Centre, The Village Hall, Birstall Road, (junction with School Lane) Birstall (LE4 4DH) Birstall Independent Baptist Church Enquiries: 0116 221 4883 http://www.birstallbaptistchurch. org.uk

11

Friday Night Films in Thurcaston

where the Crawley family are delighted to holiday.

Death on the Nile - 2022 Version (Dec 9) You will be able to use the tickets already purchased.

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, if there are any left or pay in advance from: Richard 0116 2363 066 or Diana 0116 2362 619

Cedar Care Circle The Duke (Oct 14, 96mins) Our October film is a delightful U.K. comedy crime drama, starring Jim Broadbent and Helen Mirren.

This is an uplifting true story where an idealistic old-age pensioner, in 1961, steals a Goya masterpiece which he hides in his wardrobe! He sends ransom notes, saying that he will return the painting, on condition that the government invests more in care for the elderly. You will return home smiling.

Downton Abbey - A New Era (Nov 11, 124mins) At last, we can show the new “Downton Abbey” set in the 1930’s when Lady Mary opens the door to a film crew. Meanwhile, the Dowager, played by the indomitable Maggie Smith, reveals that she has mysteriously inherited a villa in the South of France,

Hi everyone. I'm unable to hold any meetings in October unfortunately. November meetings will go ahead on the 2nd and 4th Monday of the month. Take care, contact me on 07905760556 if you'd care to chat. Barbara

Rothley & Birstall Birdwatchers Tue October 11 Nigel Slater from Nottingham gives an illustrated talk on the Birds and other Wildlife of the Outer Hebrides with a look also at the culture.

Tues Nov 8.

Gary Hodson talks on the Birds of the Ide Valley Nature Reserve in Notts.

All meetings are free to members.

Guests £3 Start 7.30pm in The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR (free car parking) If you are interested in joining us

as a guest you will be very welcome. For information please contact Jack Wootten on bingbongwoo@gmail.com or mobile 0791 312 9497 *

Wanlip Residents We are trying to establish a Wanlip Community Nature Conservation Group to advise residents what they could do to support our natural world in and around the village. If you are interested in joining, contact Phil Walling on 0116 2677162

Birstall Tea Dances Held at Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road, Birstall, LE4 4DH. Important Day Change. The Tea Dances have now been moved to a Wednesday instead of a Friday.

3.30pm to 5.30 pm.

5th, 12th, 19th, & 26th £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 0790 860 7405 jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk

Birstall Methodist Monday Group Are you at a loose end on Monday evenings and would like to join our Monday Group? Come along to the Coffee Shop at Birstall Methodist Church on a Monday evening at 7.30pm and hear some interesting speakers and entertainment. You will be made to feel welcome. Contact Eileen

2929670 for further information or just turn up on the evening.

This is our Programme for October: 3 Oct Harvest – Bring & Share Supper 10 Oct Sight Hounds - Olwyn Guildford 17 Oct Half Term - Beetle Drive (Amongst Ourselves) 24 Oct ‘Love your Clothes’ - Sallie Butt 31 Oct Bat Lady Saturday 22 October,7.30pm De Montfort Hall Leicester Symphony Orchestra

Gala Concert Join LSO for this landmark performance - 100 years to the day since the orchestra first performed at De Montfort Hall.

Concert of classical favourites including Finlandia, Spartacus Adagio, Nimrod, Yeoman of the Guard, Swan Lake Waltz and many more Tickets £20, £16, £5, family £42 & £35 www.demontforthall.co.uk

Coffee Morning/Sale Saturday 29th October 2022 The Rothley Centre 10am to 12 noon in aid of Cancer Research UK. Stalls to include Plants, Cakes, Books, Bric a Brac, Gifts, NewToys, Plants, Tombola and Raffle £1 admission to include Coffee and Biscuits.

Everyone is Welcome Please Support Cancer Research Uk All monies go to research In Leicester University/Hospitals

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

12

Helping our Community I THOUGHT it would be good to explain a little about the set up of the LE4 Helping Our Community #pay it forward.

Helping our Community LE4 Birstall

As many know the aim of the group was initially to help with essentials during the Covid pandemic. We collected prescriptions and fetched essential shopping. Not only for those that couldn’t get out but to also help keep the footfall down in our village and help prevent the spread of Covid.

All of this came in time for the White We went on to help make scrubs for Horse annual duck race. We were overour local hospitals following a huge whelmed when our group was andonation of “hospital blue fabric” from nounced to be the beneficiary. Having a Digital Dyers in Thurmaston. We apdedicated account enabled us to sell pealed on social media for elastic and people generously donated money for us tickets for the duck race and accept the amazing total of over £4000. Some of to purchase. Our book keeping was simple. People could pay into an unused which was quickly put back into the community. Various groups have donatbank account of mine and a book was ed funds and we have helped purchase kept on our expenditure and receipts. items and gifts within the community.

We made items for Jade’s retreat and When we have a project, we appeal to sold them and this was an amazing success. We were making great amounts for the residents of our community for support. Not that we don’t have funds but it Jade’s and handed over at regular intergives people a chance to #payitforward. vals. It was great to be making a differNothing feels better than giving. Next ence. We held a summer fair that raised month I will give a more detailed acover £2562 for Jade’s retreat. count of where we are spending funds.

We realised that we had the ability as Our latest initiative is to provide a community to raise good funds. In order to be transparent, we really need- “warm hug packs” for those in need during the winter months. A warm blaned to make the group more formal. ket, cup of soup, chocolate, hot water Simple, we thought, we are not trying to make any profit so we will call ourselves bottle, hat, gloves and a thermos flask. If a not for profit charity and continue with you can donate any of the above items, or have access to discount on flasks, the same bank account and method of please get in touch. Next month I will book keeping. Unfortunately it isn’t that tell you more about our initiatives as a simple. You need a bank account set up group and the local groups we have in your “group/charity” name, and a helped. Thank you for your continued constitution. We had to appoint a treassupport. urer, secretary, chair and fundraising Anything we can help with 0789 499 manager. That was only the start. We 5164. have four admin that stepped up to the From Rosie Rollings, Pay it Forward roles.

(Birstall & Wanlip) The admin team met and decided we wanted to help our Community of Birstall and Wanlip and any funds raised or donated would go back into the community. Due to the complexity of going forwards as a “not for profit” group, we had to seek legal advice. Bird Wilford and Sale took us through the setting up All Domestic Plumbing of the bank account. Not as simple as it Full Central Heating sounds. They helped us write our constiBoiler Swaps & Upgrades tution and gave us advice on all aspects Fully Fitted Bathrooms of setting up and administering the group. All of this was done free of Wall & Floor Tiling charge. Thank you Bird Wilford and Sale.

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

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NHW news

& crime report Extortion Email Messages There has been a significant increase in reports of people receiving emails that threaten to expose personal information about them unless a ransom is paid.

The senders claim that they have hacked into your devices and include personal information, such as screenshots of websites you have visited, your usernames and passwords. Their aim is to create fear, and some claim that they have evidence that you have visited porn and other disreputable or illegal websites.

They may even tell you that they have been closely monitoring your internet activity and have installed a virus on your system that allows them to access your webcam, keyboard, microphone and other features on your computers and tablets. They may also claim to have access to your data, photos and any social media accounts.

Then they add pressure by giving you just a couple of days to make a cryptocurrency transfer to them to avoid having your personal information exposed to your family and other contacts. The messages will often appear to have come from your own email address, giving the impression that your email account has also been hacked. It is much more likely, however, that the scammer has simply spoofed your email address.

It is possible that they have gained access through malware downloaded onto your computer. This may have

13 happened because you clicked on a dodgy download link. If your data has been compromised, your browsing history, usernames and passwords can then be bought and sold on the dark web, providing ‘evidence’ to use in extortion emails. However, it is much more likely that it is just an opportunist thief who hopes to panic you into to following their demands. Never be tempted to go along with the scam.

If you send off money using cryptocurrency there is no way of tracing it or getting it back. It will be gone forever.

If you receive one of these email messages, do not panic, because it is very likely that nothing will come of it.

The first thing you should do, as a matter of urgency, is to change any passwords quoted in the email.

You can check whether any of your other passwords or email addresses have been compromised by going to the website: www.haveibeenpwned.com Ensure your new passwords are secure, and use a password manager to organise and securely store your various passwords in future.

While it is unlikely that your webcam has been hacked, it is a good idea to cover the lens when you are not using it.

Keep your antivirus software up-todate and always install the latest system updates on all your devices as soon as they arrive.

Report email scams by forwarding the message before you delete it to: report@phishing.gov.uk Keep Safe From Ed Chambers, Committee Chairman, Birstall & Wanlip NHW

The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Oct 29.

The copy deadline is Oct 17.

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Annual Remembrance parade in Birstall BIRSTALL PARISH Council is proud to be working in partnership with the Birstall Branch of the Royal British Legion to ensure that the annual Remembrance parade and service continues.

There is a change to the parade route this year, where everyone involved in the parade will form up on School Lane playing fields car park and march down Birstall Road to the roundabout, up Front Street and into the Church for the service. After the service the Parade will march down to form up again facing the War Memorial.

The service will be held at 10am on Sunday, 13 November 2022 at St James the Great Church on Front Street followed by speeches and a wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial.

There will be road closures in place for a short time to allow for a safe parade to proceed through some streets in the village to the War Memorial.

The closures are as follows: 9am: Just before the entrance to School Lane playing fields car park to the junction with Birstall Road will be closed off. The School Lane car park will be closed from the evening before and not re-open until the parade has safely left the area. Birstall Road, Sibson Road, Wanlip Lane and Front Street and Church Hill will all be closed off.

10am: School Lane, Birstall Road, Sibson Road, Wanlip Lane and part of Front Street will be re-opened.

12noon: Church Hill and part of Front Street will remain closed until 12noon.

The Parish Council apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause to road users, but it is only for a very short time and we aim to keep disruption to a minimum. Should you wish to contact the organisers about any of the above information or arrangements please either visit the Parish Council offices on Birstall Road or telephone on: 0116 267 6191 or by emailing: admin@birstallpc.org.uk From Birstall Parish Council

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Bowls club news THE BOWLS England National Finals took place last month, with players from Birstall Bowling Club involved in five events.

Kat Bowman and Whitwick’s Beth Ward were runners-up in the National Women’s Junior Pairs, beaten in the final by Worcestershire’s Izzie White and Maddie Burgess.

Kat was also in the Junior Singles, beaten

by Hannah Maslen (Sussex), who went on to reach the semi-final.

Leicestershire’s Amy Rose women’s team, including Birstall’s Kat Bowman and Deam Walker, lost out to a strong Kent team in the semi-final, with Kent going on to win the title.

Pa Walker reached the quarter-final of the women’s singles before losing to Suffolk’s Sal Butcher, while Pa and Shane Hayes were quarter-finalists in the mixed pairs, beaten by Kent’s Leah Bamford and Michael Fisher.

In their first season of entering the competition, Birstall’s women’s Top Club team just missed out on a place at Leamington as they were beaten 2.5-1.5 by Wigton (Cumbria) at Thirsk in the last 16.

In the Loughborough Monday Triples

League, Birstall’s Sands team finished top of Division One for the second successive season with the Lighthouse team sixth, and in the Leicester League, Birstall were runners up to Blaby in Division One. Meanwhile, the annual St John’s Cup match between Birstall and Soar Valley was played recently, with £150 donated to the local branch of St John Ambulance thanks to contributions from both clubs.

For more information about the club, please visit the website www.birstallbowlingclub.co.uk or search for our page on Facebook.

Pic: Beth Ward and Kat Bowman from Birstall Bowling Clun

Cricket club news A VICTORY in the penultimate game saw the clubs 1stXI gain promotion as runners up to Lutterworth.

A wet outfield meant runs were hard to come by, but a patient 63 from skipper Jon Gaydon saw the Village post a score of 168. Tight bowling from Sunny Lalseta, Dillon Edwards and Anish Pancholi saw the hosts fall behind the run rate and then an amazing spell from George Ager, who took four wickets for no runs in 16 balls, polished off the opposition for just 94 all out.

An outstanding season for the first team, with Jon Gaydon and Naresh Amritlal both scoring 704 runs to become the highest run scorers in the division.

George Ager and Anish Pancholi both took 31 wickets, with George having the leagues best average of just 10-03. This season was a real team effort with several players making huge contributions.

The 2ndXI finished strongly, with three wins from four, including a superb 70 run victory over champions Aryans.

The team are the only club to have beaten Aryans in both of the last two seasons.

Joe Cooper has led the team well in his first season as captain, helped by vice-captain Apurva Pandya. The team

will only get better, and next season the players will have high hopes of challenging for promotion.

Top run scorer was Ketul Darjii with 467 runs, with Delvin Tandel making 343 and Joe Cooper 348. Most wickets were taken by Dipesh Pancholi, 32.

As ever with the club, a good social side was enjoyed and some events helped to raise £1,155 for the clubs chosen charity for this year, “Pay it Forward".

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Planning P/22/1720/2: 12-14 Front Street Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4DP T1 - Holly Observations: The stem base of this tree is in close proximity to the adjacent wall and is causing direct damage through large-diameter roots. The proximity of T1 to the adjacent wall has resulted in enough force directly damaging it. (Further details are outlined in the Arboricultural report Section 9.1 through to Section 9.5) Recomendations: Take down to ground level and treat stump to prevent regrowth P/22/1611/2: 41 The Crossways Birstall LE4 4ED Erection of two storey side/rear extension and single storey rear extension (Retrospective Application) P/22/1586/2: 1 Greengate Lane Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3JF Proposed extensions to existing medical centre to link medical centre to existing pharmacy to extend to the north of the site adding 7 ground floor consulting rooms and first floor extension P/22/1572/2: 14 Barngate Close Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3GF Proposed conversion of garage into habitable room, detached store to rear and removal of existing chimney and associated alterations P/22/1560/2: 5 Cedar Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3DA Proposed two storey extension to side and veranda to rear of dwelling.

P/22/1608/2: 2 Curzon Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4AA Reduce 3 x Sycamores by 4 meters from height and 2 meters all round (1 - 3 on plan) 1 x Beech by 3.5 meters from height and 2 meters from over lawn, south side of tree (4 on plan) Yew tree at corner of front drive to be re shaped to old cuts 1.5 meters from height and 1 meter all round.(5 on plan) Oak tree (6 on plan) to raise over the road to 16 foot for lorry clearance to highways conformity and lowest branch back to 2 meters to make safe from breakage and address lower canopy shape.

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

14

Cedars: governors needed THE CEDARS Academy in Birstall is looking for governors from the community.

Chair of Governors, Hersh Thaker, said: “Cedars Academy opened its doors for the start of the new term this September. We start the new year on the back of excellent GCSE and A-Level results our students achieved and we’re very excited about the opening of ‘Endeavour’, our new Social Emotional & Mental health (SEMH) unit.

“We are also looking for members of the community to join us! We currently have a number of vacancies to join our board of governors, which is an opportunity for you to give back to the local community and help us continue to raise pupil attainment.”

Governors are responsible for providing strategic leadership and accountability to schools by overseeing the school's financial health, holding the senior leadership accountable for the educational attainment of pupils, and ensuring the

News from the churches OUR COUNTRY is still reeling from the seismic shock of the loss of our Queen, Elizabeth II. We came together in St James for a loving and respectful service to remember her and her life and to pray for our new King, Charles III and his family as their lives have been changed irreparably, as all our lives do when we have to say 'goodbye' to our parents. The whole world moves. And then it settles again, but in a different or more drastic pattern as we learn to cope and embrace the changes. For the Royal family, they are having to do this very private adjustment in the full glare of the world. We pray for them.

Monday Group Change was (obliquely) on the agenda at the Monday Group meeting, where Bob and Del Neill brought an assortment of interesting (and useful) artefacts. It was widely commented on as to why some of these things were not made anymore - a wonderful lemon slice squeezer for instance, simple and effective.

Seeing the button hook for boots, though, didn't bring a desire to go back to button boots - oh no!

Church Fayre Given the vagaries of the English weather and the mostly cloudy skies on the day, the summer Church Fayre went down a storm (!) and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who came, which seemed to be most of the residents of Birstall! The stalls were busy, busy, busy, and the wonderful cakes, tea and coffee put big smiles on everyone's faces. It made up for the Fayre's absence during the Covid years and was a really super day.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

From Birstall Parish Churches

Birstall Methodist Church Christmas Festival There are lots of people working hard planning for this major event in Birstall.

Friday November 25, 10am - 6pm Saturday November 26, 10am-2pm Lunch Club We extend a very warm welcome to anyone of retirement age who wishes to join us every Wednesday. We serve a hot two-course meal for £7.50, the atmosphere is very chatty and friendly, and we celebrate all the special occasions in the year. We have lots of helpers for those with mobility issues, and there is a minibus to collect people around the village.

Do speak to Janet Bradford or Mary Downs or ring 0792 8864596.

Thursday Group This ladies' group meets at 2pm every week, and our program includes guest speakers, demonstrations, discussions and seasonal events. Our new Chair is Wendy Allen, and she brings with her a wealth of knowledge, experience and artistic talent. Many thanks to Linda for ably leading us for so many years.

From Birstall Methodist Church

The Last Enemy Last month we heard the sad news of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Many tributes have been paid for her humble, life-long service to our country and the Commonwealth; noting her dedication, dignity and integrity over the seventy years of her reign. We do indeed remember her with gratitude, respect and affection.

Her Majesty’s death, like that of our own family and friends, reminds us of what the Bible calls ‘the last enemy’ but which also tells us that the Lord Jesus Christ defeated death on the Cross and through His Resurrection. The prophet

school has a clear vision, ethos and strategic direction.

Hersh said: “You don’t need to have previous experience in education or school governance. You need to be over 18 and be able to offer your time and skills. You would be expected to attend four meetings a year and make occasional visits to the school in between, depending on the responsibility you took on.”

If you are interested, email Sam Abel directly to offer an expression of interest, or to find out more.

Sam.Abel@lionhearttrust.org.uk Isaiah, writing some 700 years before Christ, wrote that: “He will swallow up death forever, and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces.”

(Ch.25:8) The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians: “But now Christ is risen from the dead” (1 Corinthians 15:20) and He is the guarantee that all who put their trust in Him can enjoy eternal life.

Thus, Paul could say triumphantly: “We are confident, yes, well-pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8) This separation of body and soul will be restored at the end of time, when the Lord Jesus returns, and we receive our glorified bodies. We know that the late Queen had a personal faith in Jesus, as was shown by her Christmas messages, so she could confidently say: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”

Christians have many hymns which express this certain hope, such as James Montgomery (1771-1854)’s ‘For ever with the Lord!’ and that penned by Vernon Higham (1926-2016), who composed ‘I saw a new vision of Jesus’ when he was seriously ill. He wrote that when facing death, ‘My Jesus will reach out in power, And save me by His only way.’

He continued: ‘Lord Jesus, resplendent and regal, Drives fear far away from the tomb. Our God is the end of the journey, His pleasant and glorious domain; For there are the children of mercy, Who praise Him for Calvary’s pain.’ If you would like to know more about the Lord Jesus, then please contact us: http://www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk or 0116 2214883.

Thanksgiving Service You are most welcome to come to any of our Sunday services (10.45am in the Day Centre) but we extend a particular invitation to join us on 23rd October, when we have a Thanksgiving Service for Harvest and to mark forty years of the Lord’s goodness to the Church in Birstall.

From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

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THE DEATH of Queen Elizabeth on September 8 was met with much sadness at her passing by parishioners of St Theresa’s and Sacred Heart churches, as it was with our local community, the nation and so many people around the world.

A Book of Condolence was opened for parishioners to express their personal thoughts and prayers. A Requiem Mass was held at St Theresa’s on the day of her funeral, where we thanked God for her life of dedicated service to her peoples, and prayed for the repose of her soul.

After serving the parishes of St Theresa and Sacred Heart for the past two and a half years as Parish Administrator, Fr. Tom left us at the beginning of September to take up the position of Rector of St Etheldreda’s church in central London.

After celebrating Sunday Mass at St Theresa’s and Sacred Heart for the last time, parishioners presented him with gifts and cards. He takes with him our prayers for the future and our thanks for serving us through the very difficult time of the pandemic and beyond.

We are very pleased that Fr Ted Mullen has been appointed as Parish Priest to St Theresa’s and Sacred Heart. Fr Ted is well known to us, having spent time here prior to Fr Tom’s arrival. His Mass of Induction will be held at St Theresa’s on October 21, at 7pm, to which all are welcome, and we warmly welcome him to our two parishes.

Dates for Your Diary (all at St Theresa’s): Thursday October 6: Feast Day of St Theresa. Mass at 7pm. All are welcome Friday October 14: Quiz night. Always great fun! Tickets cost £3 on the door.

Friday November : 7pm Remembrance Mass. All welcome November 25: Murder Mystery.

Tickets only entrance.

December 10:. Christmas Bazaar.

Please give your support. Attractions include: tombola, raffle, cake stall, good-as-new clothes, mobile fish and chip van in the car park.

Sunday December 18: Christmas concert Tuesday December 20: at 7pm Readings and Carols Further details about these events can be found in the church newsletter or on the parish website.

From St Theresa’s, Birstall

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Primary Liver Cancer Around 375,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK. There are more than 200 types of cancer, and yet more than half of new cases of cancer are breast, prostate, lung or bowel cancer. But this means nearly half of all cancers diagnosed are any of the nearly 200 others which are less well known or understood. Birstall BAGs have covered each of the more common cancers before, but over the next few months, we are going to cover some less common cancers. This month we would like to share some information about primary cancer of the liver. Around 6,200 people are diagnosed with cancer that starts in the liver each year in the UK. That’s 17 new cases every day. It is more common in men than in women.

The risk of developing liver cancer gets higher as we get older.

Liver cancer is a cancer that starts in the liver. You might hear it called a primary liver cancer. Primary cancers are named after the part of the body where the cancer first started growing.

Primary liver cancer is an uncommon cancer in the UK. It is more common to have cancer that has spread to the liver from somewhere else in your body. This is called secondary liver cancer.

Secondary cancers happen when cancer cells break away from the primary site and travel to other parts of the body in the blood or lymphatic system.

The cells might lodge in another body organ, such as the lungs or liver, and begin to grow there. The cells are still the same type as the primary cancer.

This is important because your doctor treats cancers according to the original cell type. For example, secondary breast cancers that have spread to the liver are treated with breast cancer treatments.

This is because the cancer cells in the liver are breast cancer cells.

What is your liver?

The liver is the second largest organ in the body after your skin. It is just below your right lung and is protected by the lower ribs on the right side of your body. Your liver is an important organ, it is responsible for storing nutrients, converting fat into energy when the body needs it, and your liver makes bile which is a substance that helps the digestion and absorption of food. Your liver also makes proteins including albumin.

Albumin is a protein found in blood. It helps to keep the right balance of fluid between the body's tissues and the bloodstream. Your liver makes substances that help your blood clot. These substances help to control bleeding when you cut yourself. Your liver breaks down harmful substances so that the body can get rid of them in your wee (urine) or poo (faeces). This includes alcohol, many drugs, and waste products from normal body processes. If the liver is not working properly, harmful substances can build up and cause problems. So you can see it is a very vital part of our anatomy.

Types of Liver Cancer The liver is made up of different types of cells.

The type of liver cancer you have depends on where it starts and the type

of cell it starts in. Knowing which type of liver cancer you have helps your doctors decide what treatment you need. The different types of primary liver cancer are: hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), this is the most common type of liver cancer fibrolamellar cancer, this is a rare type of HCC bile duct cancer - this is also called cholangiocarcinoma, this can start in the bile ducts within or outside the liver angiosarcoma (or haemangiosarcoma), which starts in the blood vessels of the liver and is extremely rare hepatoblastoma is a rare childhood cancer Signs and Symptoms of Liver Cancer Cancer that starts in the liver (primary liver cancer) doesn't usually cause symptoms in the early stages. When you do have symptoms, they can include: weight loss yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice) itching feeling sick swollen tummy (abdomen) loss of appetite or feeling full after eating small amounts pain in your abdomen a lump in the right side of your abdomen pain in your right shoulder If you already have a liver condition such as cirrhosis, tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms.

Causes of Liver Cancer Your risk of developing cancer de-

pends on many factors. These include your age, genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors.

Anything that can increase your risk of cancer is called a risk factor.

Primary liver cancer is uncommon in the UK, but rates are increasing. Some factors are known to increase your risk.

They are: smoking, diabetes, heavy alcohol consumption, age, a history of cirrhosis, HIV, Hepatitis or having non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Treatment for Liver Cancer A team of doctors and other professionals discuss the best treatment and care for you. They are called a multidisciplinary team (MDT).

The treatment you have depends on: where your cancer is the size of the cancer and whether it has spread (the stage) the type of liver cancer how well your liver is working your general health and level of fitness Your doctor and health care team will discuss your treatment, its benefits and the possible side effects with you.

The main treatments for cancer that started in the liver (primary liver cancer) are: surgery chemotherapy directly into the liver and cutting off the blood sup-

ply to the tumour (chemoembolisation or TACE) heat directly to the tumour (thermal ablation) - radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or microwave ablation (MWA) targeted cancer drugs, such as atezolizumab and bevacizumab radiotherapy Survival Your survival, when diagnosed with cancer that started in the liver (primary liver cancer), depends on how advanced it is at diagnosis and many other factors, such as your individual condition, type of liver cancer, treatment and level of fitness. Because of this, no one can tell you exactly how long you’ll live.

Statistics for this cancer are harder to estimate than for other, more common cancers. Some of the statistics are based on a small number of people. Remember, they can't tell you what will happen in your individual case.

If you are concerned about any of the symptoms we have described please seek medical attention.

Next month another rare cancer and if you have a particular request please get in touch.

For local support and information about cancer services please contact:University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189 For more information on the funds Birstall BAGs have raised, the projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk or look us up on Facebook or email birstallbags@hotmail.co.uk

The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Oct 29.

The copy deadline is Oct 17.

The

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2022

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