Birstall Post (483) October 2023

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

OCTOBER 2023

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 483

Birstall BAGs celebrate 25 years BIRSTALL BAGs celebrated its 25-year anniversary in September, with an event to thank supporters and donors held at the White Horse pub.

The local charity was founded in 1998 by Clare Wells, shortly after her diagnosis of breast cancer. Her determination to encourage her friends, family and the local community to be vigilant, to self-examine and access medical care as soon as possible, inspired the formation of Birstall BAGs. Clare’s cancer recurred, and sadly she died in 2003. Her close friends Rachael Boyall, Helen Carnan, Liz Darlison, Lesley Merry, Jo Preston and Emma Shaw, have carried on with her vision.

The group, sometimes known as 'The BAGs' has - with the fantastic support of the local community - raised over £200,000 in the last 25 years!

Over the years, the charity has expanded beyond breast cancer awareness to support those affected by any kind of Pic: (l-r) Helen Carnan, Emma Shaw, Rachael Boyall, Liz Darlison, Rosie Houldsworth & cancer in the local community. In 2015, Jo Preston toasting BAGs’ anniversary Birstall BAGs became a registered charity and Rachael’s mum, Rosie Houldsworth, over 45 people turned up and the group left us. So, wherever you are today, at joined as secretary to support the admin- has continued to flourish!" some point raise a glass and celebrate istration of the charity.

In the early days, Birstall BAGs donat- the wonderful memories of a very speBAGs, which stands for Breast Cancer ed £4,000 to the newly built Breast Care cial lady who started our journey off 25 Awareness Group, uses the money raised Unit at the Glenfield Hospital. The chariyears ago. Thank you." to support local people affected by canty also funded the refurbishment of The To find out more about Birstall BAGs, cer. As well as providing vital equipment Retreat, a comfortable, well-equipped see the website www.birstallbags.co.uk for the hospitals of Leicester to make room on the Breast Care Ward at the diagnosis quicker and investigations less Glenfield Hospital. The Retreat initiative intrusive, BAGs fund a number of ongohas been so successful similar projects ing support groups. This includes the are being established throughout the ever-popular 'Time Out' sessions, which University Hospitals of Leicester. Birstall offer complementary therapies such as BAGs provided £8,500 to provide fixreflexology and Reiki to anyone affected tures and fittings for two rooms in the by cancer.

Cancer Information Centre at the LeicesA bereavement support group, part of ter Royal Infirmary, and recently donated the LOROS bereavement support service, £12,000 to refurbish various areas in offers information, support and the the Urology department at Leicester chance to share thoughts and feelings General Hospital. with others who may have similar experiLiz Darlison, BAGs Trustee, said: "It ences. would be impossible to thank everyone Birstall BAGs also funds sessions with individually as we are so honoured to Mayflower Therapies, which is a chance have so many supporters. Please believe to explore coping strategies, share worus when we say each and every one of ries and concerns, and learn techniques you is truly fabulous, and we are beyond to relax the mind with the support of grateful.” qualified and experienced complementaShe added: “The anniversary event ry therapist and counsellor, Nicky Carwas a really, wonderful evening. We even ling. managed to do a bit of fundraising too A group that started recently is for and raised £2,783, which is incredible.” those affected by bladder cancer and is Currently, Birstall BAGs holds a variesupported by the University Hospitals ty of annual events to bring the commuLeicester Urology nurses. nity together to have a bit of fun and In the past few years, BAGs has raise funds. Increasingly, local businessworked closely with the charity Prostaid, es, sports groups and individual memto fund a support group for men with bers of the community have chosen to prostate cancer. Rachael Boyall, BAGs support the charity with their own fundTrustee, said: "We were concerned that raising activities. nobody would turn up for the first meetSpeaking the day after the anniversary ing because we were asking men to event, Emma Shaw, BAGs Trustee said: share their feelings about a quite sensi"Today is an important day to us BAGs tive subject. But we needn't have worried, ladies, as it is 20 years since Clare sadly

Pic: Mike Smith

Birstall’s Mike Smith MIKE SMITH, former deputy head of Riverside school, and local historian, has died aged 96.

He lived all his life in Birstall and, Continued on page 2

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New play facility for playing fields

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The MUGA will be 40m x 20m and will include line markings for basketball, netball, five-a-side football, and walking football. All of these activities were identified in the feedback from the consultation.

Continued from page 1 after retiring from teaching, wrote several books on the history of the village.

He decided to train as a teacher in the mid 1950s after being 'bored to tears' by his job in Leicester's footwear industry. Teaching firstly at Medway Street School in Leicester and then Stonehill High School, he was appointed Riverside's Deputy Headmaster in 1965, a post he held until retiring from full time teaching in 1990.

At Riverside, in addition to his teaching duties, he also, at various times, ran the school football team, was a Cycling Proficiency examiner, took pupils Youth Hostelling and taught Gymnastics. One of the proudest moments of his career was when the Riverside team won the County Gymnastics competition.

Former Riverside pupils will also remember the stories he would tell them featuring characters such as 'Whizzy the wizard ' and 'Happy Harry Hippo', all of which he would ad lib and make up as he told them. 'I never knew where the stories would go, but they always seem to get there' he once said.

In 1956 he married Betty, who died in 2020, and he is survived by their 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

The MUGA has been designed to meet the five principles of designing inclusivity: Multi-sensory elements; these work by involving and encouraging sight, physical movement, touch, and the use of auditory senses.

Accessibility Play for all Opportunity for calm Social environments In addition to the playing surface, the MUGA will feature peripheral pieces of play equipment: Cricket Champ Target Game & scoreboard Street Snooker Target Game & scoreboard First to Zero Target Game & scoreboard Solar Powered Stopwatch Target Rings (set of five) Bleep Test Play Panel with outline spots for jumping, hopping, spinning, star jumping, stretching, and lunging.

Cricket Wicket Panel 2 x Cricket net areas There will also be four ergonomic benches with backrests installed outside the MUGA for spectators.

A spokesperson for Birstall Parish Council said: “I hope that you all agree that this is an innovative and exciting new attraction for residents and visitors to Birstall to enjoy.

“I can’t wait for this to be completed, there is so much in it to offer all ages and abilities that users will benefit from such as a healthy lifestyle and a wider social net.”

Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, Charnwood Borough Council’s lead member for Economic Development, Regeneration and Town Centres, said: “I am delighted

Pic: the MUGA planned for the School Lane playing fields

to see this project progressing as the multi-use games area will be a great asset for the Birstall community. Now the contract has been awarded, we look forward to seeing work start on the facility.”

Birstall Parish Council applied to Charnwood Borough Council for funding from the Government through its UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The application and business case for the project was successful, and in March 2023 it was confirmed that the Parish

Council were awarded £150,000 to proceed with the project.

A three-month public consultation was held with the residents of Birstall, and the feedback contributed to the content of the bid criteria. The invitation to tender was widely promoted, and was also posted on the gov.uk contracts finder website.

The Council met on Monday September 11, and received all eligible tenders.

Continued on page 3

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

A £150,000 multi-use-games area will be installed on the School Lane playing fields and will be open in the autumn of 2024.

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Boards celebrate village heritage

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located on Rectory Road.

The boards were designed with a rural feel to reflect the environment of the village and English oak has been used to frame and mount them.

Pic: Besides one of the new Wanlip information boards are (l-r) Phill Walling, Claire Myles, Ian Davison, Jacqueline Doughty, Carol Ward, Liz Davison and Hollie Davison

I wasn't tired of my lady Sixteen years ain't that long I love her more each day that passes She is my favourite song And while she lay there sleepin' I thought in life, how much I had And to express my feelin's I wrote a personal ad Let us drink piña colada Let's get caught in the rain Let us never do yoga Let's get drunk on champagne Yes, we like making love at midnight In the dunes on the cape Coz you're the lady I married For sixteen years of escape I only thought about my lady I hope you know what I mean But me and my old lady Have never been in the same old dull routine Every time that I'm with her It's like the first time we met And all those times we're together Gives me memories I shall never forget Next day I woke up with high hopes(!?)

And watched her wake next to me Her smile was bright as the sunrise Her skin as cool as the breeze My lady then told me "I read your personal ad" Then we laughed for a moment And both decided that...

TWO INFORMATION boards have been erected in Wanlip, to celebrate the history and people of the village.

A small team of residents were behind the project; Liz Davison and daughter Hollie Davison, Carol Ward, Jacqueline Doughty, Ian Davison, Claire Myles and Phill Walling, who initiated it.

Claire said: “We hope they give people information that will make their walk through the village more interesting, help them understand how Wanlip came to be the village that it is today and show them that there is more to Wanlip than the existing collection of houses, and why residents care so much for it.”

The boards were approved and funded by Wanlip Parish Meeting and throughout the project villagers were consulted regarding the content. They cost £2694.

It took 18 months from the initial meeting to the installation of the two boards, both

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

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Continued from page 2 The Council reviewed and evaluated the tenders using a MEAT Weighted Scoring system. The result was to confirm the appointment to the successful bidder and award the contract to TEN Construction Ltd. The parish council said the tender offered many different sporting activities, as well as extra peripheral equipment for all abilities to enjoy.

The work will commence as soon as possible, says the council, and will be open to the public in autumn 2024.

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ON SEPTEMBER 4, 26 members and two visitors attended our first meeting after the summer break, although we did meet up socially for two trips in August.

The first trip was a guided tour around the Botanical Gardens in Oadby, followed by refreshments. Later in the month, we spent a glorious, peaceful time at St Bernard’s Abbey near Whitwick.

Our speaker for the evening was Julie Kinnear, who talked about the life of Marilyn Monroe. The competition was a ‘Glamorous Photo’, won by Val Skeffington with a photo of herself.

We then discussed ideas for our Christmas dinner and had an update on our WI Christmas tree for the Methodist Church Christmas Festival and other Federation events. Cath and Beverly helped judge the Birstall Bake Off on September 23.

Our next meeting is at 7pm on October 2 at Birstall British Legion, when Julie Tinley will be demonstrating ‘Flower Arranging’, and the competition is an ‘Autumn Collage or Picture’.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

Parish council notes Pic: Bowlers from Birstall and Bedwellty Park

Bowling club news BOWLERS FROM Birstall Bowling Club were involved in five events at the Bowls England National Finals which took place in Leamington Spa recently.

Pa Walker reached the quarter final of the Women’s Singles, narrowly losing out to Somerset’s Stef Branfield who went on to win the competition.

Kat Bowman was a quarter finalist in the Women’s Junior Singles. She lost to Warwickshire’s Emily Kernick, who won the title. Kat and Holwell’s Izzy Pymm got to the last 16 in the Women’s Junior Pairs, and Kat was also part of Leicestershire’s Amy Rose Women’s Under 31 team that were beaten in the semi-final

by Kent.

Di Hurst and Shepshed’s Kate Kyle reached the last 16 in the Women’s Senior Pairs. They lost to a Cambridgeshire pair, who also won the competition.

In this year’s county finals, Pa Walker won both the Women’s Singles and Champion of Champions competitions, beating Kingscroft’s Julie Wilkins and Knighton’s Alison Johnson respectively.

Kat Bowman won the Women’s Junior Singles for the fourth successive year and was runner up in the Under 25s Open competition.

Kat was in the England Junior team that just missed out in winning the International Series which was played in Llandrindod Wells, Wales. Scotland won the trophy on shots difference, having won two and lost one of their three matches, just ahead of England who won one (against Scotland) and drew two.

Finally, the club recently played host to a team from Bedwellty Park BC, Tredegar, who were on a four-game tour of the Midlands. A great afternoon was had by all with Birstall winning the match.

The tourists gained some consolation as Wales beat Portugal in the Rugby World Cup on the same day.

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on September 11.

It was agreed to report the issues of speeding vehicles in the village and Escooters being ridden on the roads and pavements to the Birstall police team.

Comment was made that the council’s electricity costs were increasing, due to electricity prices rising. It was suggested that the council could consider installing solar panels on some of its buildings, and it was agreed that this could be put on a future agenda.

It was agreed that the training budget be increased from £3500 to £5000 per annum.

A report from Age UK, regarding the usage of the bathing service in the Village Hall, showed that the service was well used. The Parish Council fund the salary of the bath nurse, and Age UK pay rent for the premises and make a nominal charge to service users.

Cllr Kirsty Haywood had attended a meeting of the Broadnook liaison group on August 31. After considering her report of the meeting, councillors expressed their concerns relating to the Continued on page 5

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

Two trips for WI

Proudly serving the community for 15 years IT’S FIFTEEN years since the current owners were handed the keys of Birstall pub, the White Horse, which has been serving pints since the 1790’s.

Charlotte Foy from the White Horse writes: A lot has happened over the last 15 years, but it also feels like only yesterday that we began the business, called the Chocolate Dogs, after our sibling chocolate Labradors, Samson and Florence, with Ady and Jenny Doyle by our sides.

It was 2008, and after a lengthy negotiation process we were handed the keys, and after an extensive refresh, we opened those big blue doors to the public on October 10. It was a recession

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

and a little bit daunting, but as Birstall people ourselves it was our intention to bring back the White Horse for the people of Birstall, so we brought back the White Horse name, cut the prices, made the food offering more appealing and started building links with the community. It's been an amazing ride so far, and it's quite emotional to look back at what we've achieved over the years.

We added a safe children’s play area and became dog-friendly; with Water-

Continued from page 4 lack of provision of a GP surgery within the development and the impact it would have on GP surgeries in Birstall. Comment was made that the plan to position the social housing within the development in a single site would create a sense of grievance and social division within the new community and that the social housing should be spread out within the development.

Councillors also expressed their concerns about the impact on the road network, pollution, and the additional pressures on local schools.

It was agreed that MP Edward Argar be kept informed of the council's concerns.

Cllr Lesley Halliwell reported that she was receiving concerns from residents regarding traffic on Greengate Lane.

It was reported that traffic calming measures on Greengate Lane will be introduced as the Ashton Green development progresses.

Chair Robert Vincent suggested that councillors may have ideas about expenditure for traffic calming measures that the parish council could consider as part of next year’s budget.

Councillors considered tenders for the contract to provide a MUGA on the School Lane playing field. It was agreed to award the contract to TEN Construction Ltd.

mead on our doorstep, it was mad not to embrace the four-legged passing trade.

Our first free children's party took place that first December, and since then we have done nearly 30 free Halloween and Christmas parties for the kids. I must thank Katie Bateman of Katie’s Characters, who gets us organised for the parties and makes them really magical for the children.

Of course, we offer lots of events throughout the year, but particularly at Christmas we love to host nights such as Sing Christmas, which we have done since 2010. A free glass of mulled wine and a mince pie add to the festivities, and we raise funds for Save the Children. Our great friend and neighbour, Josephine Burgess, has been hosting lunches with us since 2013 and, so far, has raised over £7000 pounds. We love getting dressed up and taking part in the Christmas jumper day for Save the Children each year too. My favourite event over Christmas is the brass ensemble.

Each year Alan Holford gets a group together and they make such a rich festive sound, which adds so much to the atmosphere on Boxing Day. We're now doing Santa breakfasts, which are a great hit with families on the run-up to Christmas, and Katie, from Katie’s Characters, is the cheekiest elf.

Our other intention back in 2008 was to bring back the Birstall Duck Race, previously organised by Jonny Green, and in the following May, we did just that.

Since 2009 we have held 13 Duck races, only missing 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. We always raise money for local charities, and this year a record amount of £9782.39 was raised for Birstall United Juniors football club.

Over the years, we've raised a total of £53,826, which we are very proud of.

One of our early Duck races raised funds for our local cancer charity Birstall BAGs, and this began a long collaboration, with us hosting their yearly Ladies’ night, and in 2022, 18 of the White Horse team completed a sponsored skydive raising around £7500.

Over the years, we've raised over £11,000* for the wonderful charity

Pic: (l-r) Paul Clement, Jenny Doyle, James Foy, Charlotte Foy & Ady Doyle

which supports so many local people. (*Not counting the two duck races) We have always held a Macmillan coffee morning, but in 2013 my very good friend, Beccy Kay, came up with a grand idea inspired by the Great British Bake Off to have a baking competition from which we could then sell the donations at our coffee morning for Macmillan the next day. The Great Birstall Bake Off for Macmillan cancer support was born, and so far, we have organised 10 Bake Offs and coffee mornings, raising a great total of £11,157. This is a great event often held in the garden and has a really quintessentially British feel.

Building a network of great local suppliers who share our passion for quality and interesting products has been key to keeping our food and drinks offerings interesting over the years. We adore a 'tasting', whether it's a new food product or finding interesting drinks offers, and we love to keep it local. We were the first pub outside the city to stock Burleigh’s Gin after a brunch time tasting one day! We've always got our eyes, ears (and mouths!) open to try new things and bring them to the pub for our customers. We began working with family bakers Milner's of Blaby in 2017, their bread was a great hit at our lockdown market too. Now weren’t they something?! That market gave us a wonderful weekly focus and the community a ray of culinary delight through the covid dark times. Glenn Lewin of Sileby became our main meat supplier after Michael’s butchers retired. We saw St Martin’s coffee roasters as we drove along Abbey Lane and struck up a supply and training program with them. Dominic and David Norths of Rothley are the

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Their shop is my idea of heaven! We have ice cream from Rossas too. Even wine from Walton on the Wolds, which was a particularly pleasant 'tasting' one sunny afternoon in the vineyard. Again, we were straight off the blocks with North 42 Gin and many other small local producers have featured on our seasonal specials list and Gin nights. Most recently we found Lazy Dog, a supplier of rum in Coalville, and we are looking forward to an evening of rum tasting on October 27.

There is also a wine-tasting evening on November 10 to launch our new wine list.

None of what we do would be possible without the dedication of our team, Paul, Zoe, Sophie and Jenny; you are excellent folk, you and the rest of our team work really hard and are so up for helping with anything and everything and we love you all.

Lastly, we'd like to thank our customers. We are very proud to be the custodians of this very special pub, and 15 years is a very long time in this business, but we are not going anywhere yet. We are looking forward to opening the function room so we can host more events, birthday parties, and weddings: hatch, match and dispatch, as they say! It is our pleasure to do them all. We'd like to share the celebration with you too, so we have put together fifteen £15 offers to mark our 15 years. Keep an eye out for these in the pub, on our website, and social media.

These will run from Monday Oct 9 to Nov 20, and will change weekly.

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Graham new county president Grassland BIRSTALL RUGBY Club’s Graham Cree has been elected by Leicestershire Rugby Union as their County President for the forthcoming season.

so it was very much a social village side playing on the school fields.

“40 years on, and I have been lucky enough to be able to help encourage the same club ethos of providing a friendly, inviting and all-inclusive environment for

Graham has been associated with Birstall RFC since 1981, when he joined as a player, and is currently the Club President.

He said: “I got involved in a typical fashion to most players in that I was asked one night to play whilst having a beer in the local pub. They were short of a player for the next day, so I borrowed some kit and turned up. I was hooked from that day on as they made me so welcome.

“It was made up of mainly ex-teachers and pupils from Stonehill and Longslade,

players of all abilities, but at the same time building on the standard of playing.

We now get players from all over the county, and we have a very strong level of coaching to enable us to play at a much higher level.

“When you have been involved with a club for that amount of time, you get to see all the highs and lows. It wasn’t that long ago that we were really struggling and had talks with another local club to look at merging. Thankfully, we decided

to try to get things going for another IMPROVEMENTS TO grasslands at season and, through the hard work of a Watermead Country Park are part small group of dedicated members, we of a three-year project to boost managed to turn things around. Fast and enhance grasslands and wildforward to 2019 and the last game beflower habitats at three sites fore Covid hit, we played one of the along the River Soar. biggest games in the Leicestershire County Council is one of club's history against the key partners in the project, led by the Clee Hill in a Midlands Trent Rivers Trust. The project aims to County final, winning create wildflower-rich grassland sites and with virtually the last other habitats that will provide foraging, play of the game.

“I count everyone who breeding, and hibernation sites for pollinators, including bees, butterflies and moths. comes through the club Trent Rivers Trust secured £250,000 of door as ‘family’, and I funding from WWF’s partnership with Air feel very lucky to have Wick for the project, with £46,700 of that made lifelong friends cash being received by Leicestershire Counwith so many people. ty Council for environmental works in That family circle was three areas. extended to the County At Watermead, the work involves the family as well, so I was creation, enhancement and conservation of extremely proud to be existing grassland and the restoration of asked to become the neglected wildflower meadows across 4.7 County President. Not hectares of the park, to create species-rich environments. The project has invested in only is this an honour new mowing and baling equipment to help for me, but I see it as collect grass cuttings and provided hand an honour for everyone involved at Birtools and support for volunteers to manage stall and a recognition of their hard the grassland even more sensitively for work.

“My County President duties are main- insects and other wildlife.

In Quorn, the project is working with ly to represent the LRU in an ambassadotenant farmers along the Soar catchment rial role, so I will be looking forward to area to produce a conservation grazing getting out into the county to meet the plan for the land, including the restoration Clubs and County Representative volunof wildflower meadows and grassland habiteers who make the game possible for tats. so many.”

In Broughton Astley, a public space is Pic: John Brindley (left, outgoing president) with Graham Cree

being revitalised for nature, with the improvement of existing grassland and the introduction of more native plants.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

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Police drug raids A SEARCH of a Birstall property for drugs in June was part of a county-wide operation to tackle the illegal production of cannabis across Leicestershire.

A total of 47 properties were searched, resulting in plants with a street value of more than £7m being seized.

Leicestershire Police joined other forces across the UK taking part in Operation Mille – a national campaign to locate cannabis grows and arrest those behind them.

Searches took place across the county, including West Leicester, the city centre, Leicester Forest East, Birstall and Syston. This included 35 warrants which were executed under Section 8 or Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act. In total, more than 9,200 plants – with an estimated yield of over half a tonne – were seized. The largest grow, which consisted of 1,248, was located in East Leicester.

Equipment used in the cultivation of cannabis, worth hundreds of thousands of pounds, was seized by officers, and more than £21,000 in cash was also seized.

Forty people were arrested on suspicion of the cultivation of cannabis, and 29 people have subsequently been charged.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

Pic: Cannabis plants seized by Police

Join band SCOUTS AND Guides are being invited to join the Thurmaston Scout and Guide band.

A spokesman for the band said: “There is no minimum or maximum age and no prior musical knowledge is needed before joining.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to make new friends, learn a new life skill, improve confidence and play music together with all instruments provided.”

The band performs at parades, galas and competitions throughout the year, playing a variety of music from traditional marches to film music and pop songs.

For more information visit the website, www.tmbrass.org or contact Richard Warrington on (07831) 105648 richard.warrington@78thscouts.org

Cash presented to dementia group THE CEDAR Care Circle, a Birstall dementia support group, has received a cheque for £1250 from the Birstall Methodist Thursday Group.

Barbara Wass, founder of the group, said: “The wonderful ladies of the Birstall Methodist Thursday Group had adopted Cedar Care Circle as their charity for the year.

“On behalf of our dementia group, I

would like to thank you all for your most generous donation. To say I was overwhelmed would be a massive understatement!

At the group meeting in September, there were comments ranging from ‘how fantastic’, ‘what a wonderful achievement’, ‘thank you’, and ‘I'm stunned!’

Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support. You ladies are amazing.”

Pic: Barbara Wass (right) with Wendy Allen

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OCTOBER 2023 Visit our website at: www.villagewatch.co.uk and join our Group on Facebook

A Good Friend of the Watch has Retired

Recovery Scams

Our Remaining Assets

If you have, unfortunately, been the victim of a scam, be on your guard against fraudsters who may contact you claiming that they can get your money back. The help that they claim to offer can sound very tempting.

Recovery scams are a form of advance fee fraud that are all similar to each other. The original scammer might contact you posing as someone from a firm that can recover your money or they may have sold your details on to another fraudster who then contacts you in turn.

You might find them advertising their services on social media.

Some even impersonate ombudsmen and regulators in an attempt to convince victims that they are genuine.

Once they have got your interest, they will pressure you into giving your bank details and asking for an upfront fee.

They often have professional‐looking websites full of fake five‐ star reviews to fool you into thinking they are legitimate and there to help you recover your losses.

In fact they will only be adding to them by stealing even more of your hard‐earned money.

As the time approaches for us to finally wind up our Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, we are gathering together our non‐financial assets, primarily equipment and stationery.

Our remaining stock of crime prevention items, such as alarms, bicycle locks, leaflets, warning stickers etc. have already been donated to our local Police Beat Team for them to distribute at the various Beat Surgeries they hold around the area and in the Robert Dickinson Building, where we held our Saturday Advice Shop for many years.

Much of the remaining equipment is old but still usable and we want to donate it to other voluntary community groups in our villages who may have a use for it. We have put a full list on our website and would like to hear from any local voluntary groups who think they could make good use of it. www.villagewatch.co.uk If you have an interest or would like more information, please contact us by email at: watch@villagewatch.co.uk

Our Local Police Beat Team produces a monthly Newsletter with news of crime and other local issues.

You can read it in full on our website: www.villagewatch.co.uk/police and in our Facebook Group The Watch would like to thank Birstall Parish Council for its long‐standing support © Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch – watch@villagewatch.co.uk – 0756 2422 756

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

At the end of August Mark Butler retired, having served Birstall and Wanlip as a Police Community Support Officer for over eighteen years.

During his time on the beat, Mark walked countless miles patrolling our streets; a familiar figure whose presence gave reassurance to all who saw him (apart, perhaps, from those up to no good).

His pleasant, approachable manner and willingness to stop and chat enabled residents to ask for informal advice on issues that worried them and kept him well‐informed about what was happening on his beat.

He showed particular sensitivity to vulnerable and elderly victims of crime but his interest and concern extended to all residents. He had a particular focus on working locally with young people to give them guidance and good opportunities. In his spare time he is an active leader in the Air Cadets.

He used the Restorative Justice Scheme imaginatively to divert those who had had their first minor brush with the law, away from the risk of further offending.

Mark was always a good friend of our Neighbourhood Watch and, whenever possible, arranged his duties to hold a Beat Surgery alongside our monthly Advice Shop. He attended our management committee meetings and was a constant source of information and sound advice.

He went well beyond the bounds of his statutory duties to be visible and involved in our community. His visits as Father Christmas to local schools and nurseries have become legend!

There are many people who have cause to be grateful to Mark.

We wish him a long and happy retirement.

YOUR SAY... Noticeboard all details printed free

Friday Night Films in Thurcaston

Christmas film on December 8.

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 your tickets at the door, if there are any left, or buy in advance from: Richard 0116 2363 066 or Diana 0116 2362 619 * The Bark Foundation (Registered Charity Number: 1129762) In support of Hotpec Orphanage

“A Man called Otto” October 13, (124 mins) Nominated for two Academy Awards, our October film stars our favourite actor, Tom Hanks. Otto is continually disapproving of his neighbours’ ways and as a cantankerous widower, decides to take a drastic step. However, his plans are disrupted by a new family whose members see beyond his grumpiness. Will this unexpected friendship turn Otto’s life around?

“The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” November 10 (108 mins) Our inspirational British film for November stars two outstanding actors: Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton. When Harold finds out that his former colleague, Queenie, is in a hospice, he sets out to walk the length of the country to see her, without transport. Along the way, he revisits memories of the relationship with his son and the frustrations with his wife. He encounters a variety of people. This is a gorgeous film.

“Matilda the Musical” will be our

Charity Sale

Halloween Fair

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

Traffic A traffic speed survey was carried out by the Police Road Safety Unit for a whole week, from June 21.

A camera recorded the speed of traffic on Greengate Lane, and the conclusion was that as only 13% of motorists exceeded the police enforcement threshold of 35mph, no further action will be taken at this time. The police regard 13% as representing ‘good compliance’.

I do not accept this as it takes no account of the total volume of traffic on the road. During the week 41,701 vehicles passed my house, of which 5,421 were travelling in excess of 35 mph.

This already high number increases to a staggering 18,308 or 44% of motorists, if the legal speed limit of 30mph is applied.

An important factor, which the results do not show, is the number of motorists exceeding the 20mph, which applies in the zone around Highcliffe Primary School. I have no figures, but when this is taken into account, it is clear that the true figure of speeding motorists is far higher than shown in the survey.

You may be interested to know that the survey recorded 1186 vehicles travelling in excess of 40mph, and the highest speed recorded was an astonishing 67mph!

We really do need to take this more seriously. At the very least, a speed-activated sign should be installed in each direction. This type of device is relatively cheap and is known to have a calming effect.

Pat Dobson

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

Thanks I would like to thank everyone who sponsored me for The Matt Hampson Foundation (MHF) ride on September 2.

With my friend Mark Dave, we rode 40 miles from Birstall, taking in The Get Busy Living Centre in Burrough on the Hill, where we met fellow cyclists and MHF staff. Between us we have raised £610, every penny of which will go to support people whose lives have been changed by a serious sporting injury.

Dave Thomas

Sat Oct 28, 2pm to 4pm at Birstall Scout Hall All Welcome Stalls, crafts, hot and cold drinks, cakes and treats, dressing up box, raffle etc.

This is a family friendly event in aid of ADHD Solutions (Leicester).

Scout Hall, Birstall Road (next to Gunns’ Gym)

Lost in Birstall on Bank Holiday Monday, my Charnwood Lifeline red and white lozenge shaped pendant, on a white bracelet. Please phone Chris on (0116) 267 4176. Thanks Leicester Symphony Orchestra

'Remembrance Concert' Sat 11 Nov, 7.30pm at De Montfort Hall Join Leicester Symphony Orchestra for a special Remembrance Day concert.

Music includes: Vaughan Williams: Symphony No. 3 Elgar: Polonia Butterworth: Banks of Green Willow Finzi: Farewell to Arms Williams: Schindler’s List Pipers lament, Flowers of the Forest .

Tickets £20, £16, £5, family £42 & £35 www.demontforthall.co.uk

Sat October 14 10am-12.30pm Birstall Methodist Church Hall Wanlip Lane, Birstall, LE4 4JS Mega Jewellery Sale (Huge selection of recycled/handmade costume jewellery, from 50p to more) The Bark Foundation, as always, raising funds to support HOTPEC Orphanage in Cameroon, will be joined by other LOCAL charitable groups, including: L.O.R.O.S. (Jigsaws and Tombola) ‘Save the Children’ (Christmas Cards) Birstall & Wanlip W.I. ‘Hedgehog Rescue’ Birstall Methodist ‘Warm Space’ (Gift Baskets) Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop will be open as usual, 10am-12noon, serving filter coffee, tea, homemade scones and cakes – all at only £1 each

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Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust Wed 11th Oct 2023 at 7.30pm Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall Admission is £3 for LRWT members, £3.50 for visitors, children free.

The Origins & Future Of Meadows In this talk Uta Hamzaoui will give an overview of how meadows have become part of the landscape and how the plants and animals that live in them have adapted to their cutting and grazing cycle. Based on the ecology of meadows, the principles of their management will be explained and how these can be adapted for conservation and restoration of meadows in the countryside, as well as in public spaces, on road verges and in gardens

Wanlip Christmas Fayre Saturday 2nd December, 2-4pm at Wanlip Church and Community Hall Crafts, Gifts &Stalls Festive food & drink Visit Santa in his grotto!

October Programme

Birstall Methodist Monday Group 9 Oct: Peter LeMarchant Trust – Tim Marren 16 Oct: No Meeting – HALF TERM 23 Oct: Anthony’s Antiques (+ Thrift Stall) 30 Oct: Christians Against Poverty – Susan Littlemore We meet in the Coffee Shop at Birstall Methodist Church every

Monday evening at 7.30pm. Why not come along either as a visitor or a member and hear our very interesting speakers. The entrance fee is £2 which includes tea/coffee and a biscuit (or cake if someone is feeling generous!)

Birstall Methodist Church

Christmas Festival 2023 Christmas Songs Decorated trees in the Church Free Admission Donations welcome to Motor Neurone Disease Fri 24th November 10am - 6pm Sat 25th November 10am - 2pm Santa’s Grotto Decorations & crafts - Toys 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

Cedar Care Circle The group meetings for October are 9th and 23rd.

If you or someone you know is caring 24/7 for a spouse, partner or friend suffering from dementia, please come and enjoy a couple of hours at Brunchies Cafe Hallam Fields Road Birstall, 1pm. Our aim is to be there to support and provide a safe happy environment where you can relax. We can all relate to the loneliness and isolation that caring brings. If you'd like to chat call me on 07905760556, Barbara

Birstall Flower Club Wed October 25, 2023 Birstall Village Hall 7.15pm Demonstrator: Beverley Artis Title: Viva Andalusia!

Visitors £5 Queries to: Sylvia 0116 267 4206 or Carol 0116 267 1437 *

Friends of Belgrave Cemetery Our Remembrance Sunday Service will take place at Belgrave Cemetery on Sunday 12th November.

Please arrive early for an eleven o’clock start.

This year, our Remembrance Day ceremony is to be led by the Rt Revd Richard Norburn, and visitors will be able to witness the lighting of the Candle of Remembrance of Light and Hope, and join us in the singing of a hymn.

More details: www.friendsofbelgravecemetery.o rg.uk

Free IT help!

10am-12pm Third Tuesday Every Month Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop Wanlip Lane, Birstall No Need To Book – Just Drop In! Free “Drop In” session from Age UK to help you use a smartphone, tablet, I-Pad or laptop computer.

Never used a computer?

No problem!

We can lend one to you to get you started!

0116 204 5117 digitalchampions@ageukleics.org. uk

Birstall Royal British Legion Club Front St, Birstall All old and new members will be very welcome Bingo every Tues, starting at 9pm Quizzes every Wed starting at 8.30pm & Sun at 9pm Pool tables at only 50p Saturday entertainment 14th Zoe Snow (female vocalist) 28th Ali (female vocalist) Room hire available for wakes, ring 07894715049

Charnwood Orchestra is kicking off its 50th Anniversary Season with a fabulous concert showcasing the Orchestra "Dreams and Serenades".

Saturday 21st October 2023 7:30pm Holy Trinity Church, Church Street, Barrow upon Soar LE12 8HP Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream Dvorák: Wind Serenade Op.44 Dvorák: Two Waltzes for Strings Op.54 Beethoven Symphony No.2 Where can I get a ticket get a ticket for this? www.charnwoodorchestra.org.uk email: tickets@charnwoodorchestra.org.uk

Taylor’s Florist, 17 High Street, Barrow upon Soar LE12 8PY At the door, cash payments only Price? £14.00, (£12.00 concessions), £5 -18s and under or NUS members

The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Nov 3.

The copy deadline is Oct 20.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

10

NHW news

& crime report Only Pay What You Owe

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

The introduction of the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) in London, whether you like it or not, has provided fertile ground for the ever-opportunistic scammers.

Birmingham and a number of other cities have similar Clean Air Zone (CAZ) charges and it is very likely that you may come across one unexpectedly when on a journey. A quick search on your phone for information on how to pay the charge will often produce a list of adverts before the link for the official website that you need.

They are there just to make money, either semi-legally or often just fraudulently.

You can pay or check whether your vehicle even needs to pay a CAZ or ULEZ charge on the Government website: www.gov.uk/clean-air-zones Most of the dodgy websites relate to the London ULEZ since it is the biggest and, therefore, most lucrative to scam.

The only safe way to pay that charge is through the official Transport for London (TfL) website: tfl.gov.uk If you use another link, the best that will happen is that the website will charge you an additional fee for providing their ‘service’. You may pay £17.50 for them to send on the actual fee of only £12.50, something that you could easily have done yourself. You may also find that you have unwittingly signed up for recurring charges to be taken from your account in the future.

To add insult to injury, the site will probably take your payment even when your vehicle is exempt from the charge.

The official websites will tell you this when

you enter your registration number.

Much worse, your whole payment could go straight into the scammer’s pocket and you only become aware of it when a penalty notice with a fine for non-payment lands on your doormat.

If you come across an unexpected CAZ or ULEZ sign on your travels, do not panic and think that you have to pay before you go any further. The deadline to pay is usually two or three days after you have entered the zone, giving you plenty of time to deal with things calmly through the correct channels.

Whenever you search online, do not just accept the first result in the list. Scroll down until you are sure you have the official site that you need.

From Ed Chambers, Chairman, Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch

Current Priorities CHARNWOOD POLICE Burglaries - local Police are aiming to reduce burglaries at domestic dwellings in the area.

Local Officers will engage with the community to provide crime prevention advice and encourage the use of security measures to make properties more secure. Attending reports of burglaries to secure any evidence and pursue reasonable lines of enquiries to identify any offenders.

Vehicle Crime - Tackling all elements of vehicle crime Police aim to tackle different elements of vehicle crime, such as theft, TWOC and ASB caused by vehicles Police aim to tackle vehicle crime through the use of Problem management profiles. This will be targeted patrol times to disrupt the use of ASB with vehicles, and disruption tactics on a wider scale using specialist officers.

Theft and associated offences will be targeted by pursuing reasonable lines of enquiry to assist in identifying and prosecuting offenders in a timely manner.

Tackling County Lines - Police are developing and targeting people within the area who are drug

11

Pic: Birstall Beat Team (l-r) PC1365 Stu Venables, PCSO 6389 Nuala Sherlock, PCSO 6174 Jon Harrison

dealing, exploiting vulnerable people by If your home lights are on, consider cuckooing addresses and causing antidrawing your curtains or closing your social behaviour from this type of crime. blinds, as criminals will use any opportuGathering intelligence from the commu- nity to go window shopping. Please visit nity, providing a robust response by exeour website: www.leics.police.uk for addicuting search warrants, and applying any tional crime prevention advice or visit us necessary closure order to stop the crimi- during one of our beat surgeries. nality and protect the public.

All the best, and stay safe!

PC 1365 Stu Venables BIRSTALL SPECIFIC Crime Update Drugs - Development of intelligence Crime summary— Birstall and WanLocal officers are out and about within lip Birstall and Wanlip, speaking to local residents to gather current/accurate inforLast 28 days from 20th Sept 2023 mation and intelligence that can be acted All other theft, offences 9 upon in order to hold drug dealers/users Burglary, business 1 accountable, which will subsequently Burglary, residential 4 make our streets a safer place.

Criminal damage 5 Road Safety - Excess Speed Drug possession, 1 Speeding vehicles is an ongoing issue Misc crimes against society 1 on our roads, that is very well established.

Other sexual offences 3 As a policing team, we will be out on the Public disorder 4 roads at locations highlighted by local Shoplifting 4 residents on a sporadic basis. Please Stalking and Harassment 14 watch your speed. If you are concerned Theft from motor-vehicle 3 about road safety in Birstall & Wanlip — Theft of motor-vehicle 1 Request enforcement and make a differViolence with injury 8 ence. Find out more by visiting the Violence without injury 2 Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland Road Events Safety Partnership website: Beat Surgery: Located at the Robert www.speedorsafety.com where you can complete a short Community Concern Site Dickinson Building on Sibson Road (within the Short Stay car park) - on the folRequest. lowing dates/times: A message from PC 1365 Stu Venables 13th October 2023 (Between 4 & We have had a few Burglaries and 5pm) Thefts from Motor Vehicles over the last 21st October 2023 (Between 10am few weeks, we are working hard to and 12noon) progress the investigation in regards to 29th October 2023 (Between 10am & these in the hope of identifying the 12noon) offender/s.

Beat Surgery: Located at Wanlip In relation to the male who in the past was seen asking for money outside Tesco, Church and Community Hall, Riverside a short update. By working together with Mews, LE74PH on the following our partner agencies (East Midland Hous- dates/times: 21st October 2023 (Between 10am ing, Charnwood Borough Council, The and 12noon (between 1 & 2pm) Bridge, Turning Point and Social ServicPlease feel free to attend, meet your es) we have managed to secure him some local officer, ask any questions or discuss alternative accommodation, somewhere any community concerns you may have. more suited to his needs which, with Additionally, local residents can bring fingers crossed, will enable him to flourtheir cycles to the surgeries to have them ish going forward in his life. officially marked for free — Information We have now also been informed that regarding the scheme can be found on we have been allocated a new Sergeant, the website: www.bikeregister.com or this will be PS 732 Pete Colgate, who explained on the day. started with us on September 21, 2023.

Sgt Colgate has extensive experience within policing and has been a neighbourTrouble with your figures? hood Sergeant at Keyham Lane & Spinney Hill Police station, which is where I have Let me help Want worked with him previously for a number get your someone to of years. He will no doubt be an asset to books in walk you the team and community. shape… through a self Please feel free to come and see us at & keep them trim assessment? our upcoming beat surgeries, this is a Linda Kimberley-Brooks (ACMA) great opportunity to meet your local officers and discuss any concerns within the Final accounts • Self assessment community.

Taxation • Bookkeeping • VAT Additionally, now the nights are drawPayroll • Management accounts ing in, please be conscious of your home www.twyf-accounts.co.uk Email: Linda@twyf.co.uk and vehicle security, and try not to leave Companies & individuals call now on anything on display, as advertising your 0116 23 66 345 property could lead to you becoming a A friendly service tailored to your needs victim of crime.

THE GROUP have had the honour along with Lords Legacy of helping turn Birstall Purple for Abigail’s farewell.

Helping our Community LE4 Birstall

Abigail was a pupil at Riverside school who passed away in the summer holidays.

The guard of honour was arranged

by Rachel one of our admin. We were able to publicise and distribute purple balloons on this very sad occasion. It

HATS promise a bit of panto magic HATS’ PANTO this year is “Little Panto of Horrors” by (and with the permission of) Limelight Scripts.

I wonder if any of you have been able

to guess what the theme of the panto was a great comfort to see the community come togeth- will be this year? “Horrors” might suggest something scary to keep you on the er. edge of your seats.

We have supported the Will you be the one “Shoe box” appeal and suplooking through your plied hand knitted bears. If fingers as you place anyone would like to contrib- them over your faces ute items they would be to shield you from the gratefully received (tooth thrill of waiting to see paste/brushes/ crayons etc). what frightening things The scrubs team continue might happen? Or will to make items for the Leices- you just embrace the whole Panto theme, ter Royal Infirmary. Quilts and enjoy the unand Angel baby gowns. known, always secure If you think the group in the knowledge that can help in any way, please there will be lots of fun, laughter, shoutget in touch on: ing, hissing and booing, and of course 07894995164

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intensity, out of this world experiences, the unexpected and lots of humour”.

Our rehearsals are in full swing, we are learning our lines, having to remember which side to come on, trying not to talk too fast, remembering to speak loudly etc. What we don’t have to remember is how to have fun; this just

comes naturally to us. If we are having fun then you will too. We are looking the ever present “He’s behind you”. forward to seeing all our regular audiWhile the majority of people know ence members again, and anyone who is that the tradition of panto is unique and coming to see us for the first time will soon become part of our regulars when they see the sparkle we bring to people.

Our panto will be a fabulous lead up to the Christmas activities, pantos are a must for everyone.

So get your tickets ordered and don’t miss this fabulous show. And check out our facebook page for regular updates/photos of our rehearsals too.

See you soon.

Dates for your diary: quite unlike any other stage productions, December 7, 8 and 9 in the evening, there will also be some people for with an additional matinee performance whom a panto will be the first time they on the 9th. have ever experienced anything that Venue: Birstall Social Club 16-18 allows and encourages audiences to join Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS in and shout at the actors. The magic of Tickets: £7 and £6 concession, £22 seeing children’s (and adults’) faces for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 chillight up as they watch the stories unfold dren) is something that you just cannot explain.

Discount for group bookings of 10 or Here at HATS, we are never surprised more people. at how quick the audience are to join in Box Office: 0116-2209594 and 07948 with the fun, and seeing them so en796675 grossed and engaged always creates a Facebook: buzzing atmosphere backstage for our www.facebook.com/hatsamdram/ cast too.

This panto will include “mystique,

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

12

Art exhibition BIRSTALL AND District Art Society’s 28th Annual Art Exhibition will be held in the Village Hall, Birstall, on Saturday and Sunday November 4/5.

ST MARGARET'S Co-operative Bowls Club has held summer bowls tours for many years.

This year, at the end of August, our destination was Torquay in Devon. There were 32 bowlers on tour, with 14 nonbowlers. Torquay and the Torbay area are well-known holiday destinations with glorious beaches and many other places of interest.

Our hotel was the Toorak, which fully lived up to our hopes in terms of food, accommodation and facilities. The first game, an eight rink match against the Torquay club, was only a short walk from the hotel. Our team put on a good show, but the locals proved a bit too strong and we had to settle for second place.

The following day, a short coach ride took us to Paignton BC whose ground is situated immediately alongside the steam railway station. Like the previous match, the game was played in a very friendly spirit, but on this occasion, we just man-

aged a win by the slimmest of margins, with a mere three points separating the teams. Our hosts laid on a lovely Devonshire cream tea, much appreciated by all.

The third and final match of our tour was to be against Babbacombe, but unfortunately, it had to be cancelled due to rain.

Luckily, we were able to play a hastily arranged tournament on the hotel’s indoor rinks. This helped to make up for the disappointment of the lost match and proved a fun way to pass a rainy afternoon.

Each year, we have an award for the highest-scoring player of the tour, which this year was won by Chris Holmes.

Overall, it was an exciting and funpacked tour. Our thanks and appreciation go to the organiser, Pat Dobson, whose plans for next year's trip to the Isle of Wight are already well in hand!

From St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club smcbc.com Pic: St Margaret’s bowlers at the Paignton club

Autumn vaccines illness or even worse. It is likely that a regular Covid Booster vaccination programme will continue in the coming years, and it is very important to take up these opportunities whenever they are Edmund Chambers, Chairman of the made available.

Birstall Medical Centre and Border Drive All the reputable and trusted medical Patient Participation Group, explains the advice is that the advantages of being arrangements: vaccinated far outweigh any possible There are no changes to the arrangedisadvantages many, many times over. ments for the flu vaccinations. They will Who is eligible? be delivered directly by each patient’s The NHS and Government websites own surgery, as in previous years. give the following information.

The arrangements for the Covid BoostThe flu vaccine is given free to adults er programme, which the Government who: unexpectedly and at short notice brought Are 65 and over (including those who forward to start in mid-September, are will be 65 by 31 March 2024) different.

Have certain health conditions The practices in Birstall, together with Are pregnant two in Thurmaston, form the Watermead Are in long-stay residential care Primary Care Network.

Receive a carer's allowance or are Birstall Medical Centre is the designat- the main carer for an older or disabled ed Covid Booster site for all four practic- person who may be at risk if you get es. All patients, apart from those sick mentioned below, will be invited to atLive with someone who is more likely tend Birstall Medical Centre on Whiles to get a severe infection due to a weakLane for their Covid Booster rather than ened immune system their own surgeries.

People eligible for an autumn Covid The exception is that individual pracBooster: tices will provide Covid Booster jabs to Residents in care homes for older their own patients who are housebound, adults in care homes or have specific issues, All adults aged 65 years and over such as the immunosuppressed. They People aged 6 months to 64 years will be contacted directly. who are in a clinical risk group Any questions about these arrangeFrontline health and social care workments should be directed to the patient’s ers own surgery in the first instance.

People aged 12 to 64 years who are Getting vaccinated against flu each household contacts of people with weakautumn has been an important health ened immune systems programme for years and has protected People aged 16 to 64 years who are many vulnerable people from serious carers

THE BIRSTALL POST OCTOBER 2023

BIRSTALL’S GP practices have coordinated their delivery of flu and covid vaccinations this autumn.

The exhibition is open from 9.30am until 4pm on both days. Entry is free, paintings will be for sale, refreshments are available and there will be support for LOROS again this year.

Free parking is behind the hall and is accessed via School Lane.

Unfortunately, the society’s ‘Live Art Demonstration’, due to be held in October, has had to be cancelled. However, there will be a Live Art Demonstration on Tuesday November 14, when Rebecca Ivatts will be demonstrating portraiture using acrylics. The demonstration evenings are held at the Tara Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at the Cedars Academy, Birstall. The charge for non-members is £4. They start promptly at 6.45pm and finish at 8.45pm. More details are on the website, www.badas.uk The Friday morning informal painting and drawing sessions, which are held at

Pic: a BADAS Wednesday evening session

the Co-Op Sports & Social Club from 930am to 12noon, have proved very popular, with up to 30 members attending each session.

The Wednesday evening sessions held in the village hall, Wanlip, from 6.30 to 8.30pm have also proved popular, although there is still more room for others to join in.

If you would like to see if the Wednesday evening and/or Friday morning sessions would suit you, then you can go for up to three weeks at just £3 per session. Full details are on the website www.badas.uk From BADAS

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THE ST JAMES’ Summer Fayre was held on August ank Holiday Monday.

Our picture shows Mina Milankovic with Monty (4), two of the many visitors who enjoyed the many stalls, games and refreshments.

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Planning P/23/0385/2: This updated application is to remove the ground floor rear bay patio doors, rear windows and back door then square off the rear ground floor with 2 x set of Bifold Doors P/23/1713/2: 4 Went Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3BG Two and single storey extension P/23/1711/2: Land North of Birstall Leicestershire Flag signs, billboard, Vboards, Broadnook 'hollywood' sign P/23/1679/2: 21 Woodgate Drive Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3HT Change of use from dwelling house C3 to C2 (children home) P/23/1556/2: Broadnook (Parcel A2) Land North of Birstall Leicestershire Reserved matters approval for access, layout, scale, appearance and landscaping for 127 dwellings on Parcel A2 pursuant to Outline Application ref: P/23/1556/2 P/23/1555/2: Broadnook, Land North of Birstall Birstall Leicestershire. Removal or variation of condition 40 of P/16/1660/2 Outline application (with all matters reserved on those areas not subject to the detailed proposals) for erection of 1,950 residential dwellings P/23/1510/2: 27 Moorgate Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3HJ Erection of single storey side extension P/23/1562/2: 62 Orchard Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4GE Erection of two sto-

rey side and rear extension P/23/1542/2: The Coppice 13 School Lane Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4EA Fell 1No Sycamore tree currently protected by Charnwood TPO P/23/1576/2: 115A Roman Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4BF Erection of single storey rear extension, first floor side extension and provision of vehicular access and associated alterations P/23/1600/2: 37 The Crossways Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4ED Erection of single storey front porch extension P/23/1561/2: 230 Birstall Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4DG 1 (Birch) - Whole Tree Removal 2 (Birch) - Whole Tree Removal 3 (Birch) - Whole Tree Removal They lean towards the house. Advised that they need to be felled by a tree surgeon as 'supporting root structure is not strong enough to support the lean of the trees' P/23/1563/2: 247 Birstall Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4DJ Erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling, and single storey self-contained annex P/23/1558/2: Birstall Medical Centre 4 Whiles Lane Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4EE Erection of single and two storey side and rear extensions, with external fire escape staircase, cycle store and associated works P/23/1506/2: 70 Denegate Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3GG Conversion of garage to habitable space, replacement of existing conservatory with single storey rear extension, changes to fenestration and increased rear patio area

Group raises £3000 BIRSTALL METHODIST Monday Group held their AGM on September 11, and Paul Wilcock from the Leicestershire & Rutland Branch of Motor Neurone Disease Society was overwhelmed to receive a cheque for £3000.

The money was raised by the group having various fundraising events: coffee mornings, thrift stalls, raffles and generous donations. Paul thanked the group for all their efforts, which were inspired

by Stuart and Maggie Preston and their family. He said: “This amazing amount will ensure that local people suffering with MND will be able to access help and support more quickly.”

The group’s project for 2023/24 will be ‘Age UK Dementia Support’. Many people, including members of the Monday Group, will be supported by this

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charity. Lisa will be speaking in more detail about ‘Age UK Dementia Support’ when she visits the group on November 13, 2023.

The Monday Group meets in the Coffee Shop at the Birstall Methodist Church at 7:30pm.

Eileen Molesdale said: “Everyone is welcome to join us as either a member or a visitor. We have an interesting Autumn And Winter programme planned, which is in the Birstall Post, including a Harvest Supper. So, don’t sit at home feeling lonely - why not come along to our group on a Monday evening - you will be made very welcome, and tea/coffee and biscuits are provided.”

Please contact Eileen on 0116 292 9670 for further details.

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Birstall Remembrance parade BIRSTALL’S REMEMBRANCE Service and parade will take place this year on Sunday November 12.

There will be road closures for a short period of time to allow the parade to safely make its way from the School Lane playing fields car park to the Church for the service.

The parade will then make its way from the Church to the memorial for the

wreath laying service and two-minute silence, and then march back to School Lane playing fields car park.

Parish clerk Sue Coulson said: “Birstall Parish Council is again proud to be working in partnership with the Birstall Branch of the Royal British Legion and St James the Great Church to ensure that the annual Remembrance parade and service continue.”

The road closures will come into

quiet, singing together, socialising afterwards, having a structure, doing good, feeling good because you have a purpose.’ While this may be true, you AS YOU have probably heard alcould probably get similar benefits from ready, the Down Memory Lane a social club. The definition omits the central point of Christians meeting tomonthly afternoon tea is now gether; Christians meet to give glory, being held again.

By all accounts this is hugely appreci- praise, thanksgiving and worship to God. ated by the community, and it is wonder- Amongst other things that Christians do there is the command in the Bible to tell ful that we can offer our premises for others about the Gospel (good news), so this. that at the end of this age there will be: In September, we had most of the ‘a great number which no one could exterior of the main building repainted, number, of all nations, tribes, peoples as well as the whole of the Coffee Shop and tongues standing before the throne.’ and kitchen. And we are in the process This instruction was given by the Lord of gradually tackling some of the other Jesus Christ Himself to His followers areas in need of a freshen-up. Also, the after His Resurrection and it is not someParish Council found the defib unit outside the Coffee Shop was faulty. Hopeful- thing that is limited by time of day or day of the week. Mark’s gospel says: ly, by the time you read this, it will be ‘And He [Jesus] said to them, “Go into back in operation. Many thanks to their all the world, and preach the gospel to Estates Team for their diligence! every creature”’.

When it starts to become cold again, Our hymn this month talks about the we should be able to offer our Coffee never-ending job of telling others about Shop as a Warm Space, similar to last Jesus. Written by Frank Houghton year. The success of this is very much (1894-1972) it is: ‘Facing a task unfindependent upon volunteers, so do drop ished’. Frank was born in Staffordshire, in to see Julie if you would like to join educated at London University and the team for 1-2 mornings per month. served in parishes in Lancashire before This month, we are starting the detailed planning for our Christmas Festival. joining the China Inland Mission (now Overseas Missionary Fellowship), workSome of the team have been busy most ing in China in the 1920s and 1930s. of this year though, preparing all the He later took parishes in the Midlands baskets for their stalls, renting out table before retiring in 1963. Frank’s hymn spaces, organising the refreshments says: ‘We bear the torch that flaming fell rotas and the food. As usual, it is being from the hands of those who gave their held at the end of November, this year lives proclaiming that Jesus died and on the 24th & 25th, and our nominated rose. Ours is the same commission, the charity this year is Motor Neurone Dissame glad message ours …’ and he ends ease. with: ‘Forth on Thine errands send us to From Birstall Methodist Church labour for Thy sake.’

You are warmly invited to join us for Is Christianity just for Sundays? our Sunday services – see the Diary A comedienne, being interviewed section for details, or contact us: earlier this year about her own search http://www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk for faith, is quoted as saying: ‘When it or 0116 2214883. works, the church does all the things we From Birstall Independent Baptist know are good for our mental health: Church

News from the churches A BIG apology to all cake-a-holics who go to Wanlip Old Nick's Coffee Shop.

It is NOT held on the second Tuesday of the month but on the third Tuesday of each month! Mea Culpa - put it down to old age and general decrepitude. It is the St James Monday Group that meets on the second Monday of the month in St James Church (2.30 4.30pm).

The Monday Group was due to be entertained by the Handbell ringers in October, but, unfortunately, this was cancelled - instead, members had fun with an impromptu 'Beetle Drive', accompanied by chocolates and tea.

Well, it may not have been a super sunny Bank Holiday for St James' Summer Fayre, but the rain didn't rain, and the temperature was pleasant, which led to a most enjoyable day for everyone who attended.

The Shoebox Appeal is underway again to help support the poorest areas of Eastern Europe. A box to receive donations is in the social area of St James church for toiletries, sundry items and colouring books and pencils, as well as pretty things for presents.

Donations for the cost of carriage for the boxes would also be very welcome.

Next summer, St James will be joined by a new curate, who is, at the moment, completing her college training at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, in Oxford.

Rachael Brind-Surch hails from Groby and now lives with her husband in Loughborough, an easy commute!

A date for your diaries is Saturday October 7, when there will be the Tearfund Big Quiz at St James Church.

From Birstall Parish Churches

effect from 9.15am until 11.30am.

The roads that will be affected are: School Lane – from the playing fields car park to Birstall Road Birstall Road – from Church Hill down to the roundabout Sibson Road – after the entrance to

the car park Wanlip Lane - from Riverside School, to allow the Air Cadets to march up to the car park Wanlip Lane – the road closure above will be moved up to just after the entrance to the Co-op The following roads will be closed to allow safe passage of the parade: Whiles Lane, White Horse Lane, Front Street, Mill Close, Netherhall Lane and Church Hill.

Should anyone require any further details or information, contact Sue Coulson – Clerk to Birstall Parish Council, on 0116 267 6191 or email: admin@birstallpc.org.uk

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Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Personalised Cancer Treatment Cancer treatment can be many different things, and Birstall BAGs would like to spend the next few months talking about some of the different treatments available to treat cancer.

Chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy are the three stalwart treatments that many people have heard of. While they can be the bedrock of an individual’s treatment plan, increasingly other types of treatment are utilised, such as hormone therapy, immunotherapy, targeted treatment, stem cell transplant, and proton beam therapy, to name but a few.

This month, we are going to talk about how clinical teams decide which treatments to recommend to each individual patient: this is often referred to as personalised medicine.

Personalised medicine involves using information about a person’s cancer to help with the diagnosis and treatment. It is an area that researchers are still working on.

Cancer treatment usually depends on: the type of cancer you have how big it is whether it has spread (the stage) In the past, everyone with the same type of cancer used to get the same treatment. But we know that this onesize-fits-all approach doesn’t work for everyone.

As doctors learn more about cancer, they also learn about the differences between cancer types. For example, doctors know that there isn’t just one type of breast cancer. There are many different subtypes of breast cancer.

Genetic changes in cancer Cancer cells have changes in their genes (DNA) that make them different from normal cells. Genes are coded

messages that tell cells how to behave.

These gene changes mean that cancer cells behave differently from normal cells.

Different cancers have also different gene changes. Researchers call this the

genetic makeup of the cancer. Every person’s cancer has its own genetic makeup.

Personalised medicine is looking at developing treatments that target those differences Personalised medicine is an area that researchers are still working on. But some people are already benefitting from this.

Whether personalised medicine is suitable for you depends on: whether scientists have identified particular gene changes for your type of cancer if there is a test available for that gene change if there is a treatment that targets

the particular gene change Your clinical team will discuss the results of your cancer tests. They will tell you what the best treatment is for your cancer type. Doctors already use personalised treatments on a number of cancers, such as lung, breast, bowel and melanoma skin cancer.

If you would like to know more,

please talk to your clinical team and follow this link: www.cancerresearchuk.org/aboutcancer/treatment/personalised-medicine We hope you have found this helpful.

If you would like Birstall BAGs to cover any particular cancer or treatment in this column, please do drop us an email: Birstallbags@hotmail.com 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

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