the Birstall p t Y O U R
C O M M U N I T Y
JANUARY 2024
Council os receives No. 486 reprimand
N E W S P A P E R
www.birstallpost.co.uk
Robin Hood coming to Birstall
CHARNWOOD BOROUGH Council has been reprimanded by The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) after it disclosed the new address of a domestic abuse victim to her ex-partner. A letter detailing the new address of the victim was sent to the previous address she shared with her ex-partner. The letter was later confirmed to have been opened and read by the ex-partner. Natasha Longson, ICO Head of Investigations, said: “This mistake was caused by a lack of appropriate refresher training, and the absence of a clear process. It led to significant distress and had the potential to put the victim in real danger. “Vulnerable people need to be able to trust public sector organisations to look
THE BIRSTALL Theatre Company are busy rehearsing their annual family-friendly pantomime, which this year is Robin Hood.
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PHOTO: LYDIA-HEWING JONES
Come and meet Robin and his Merry Men in Sherwood Forest - watch how they come face to face with the evil Sheriff of Nottingham (Boo!). Then there’s dame Nurse Fusspot and her mischievous Babes getting up to lots of tricks. The production is supported by fabulous costumes, dancing, singing and all the usual panto shenanigans. Performances, at the Cedars Academy, are Thursday February 22, to Saturday February 24, 2024. Evening performances start at 7:30pm, and the Saturday Matinee is 2:30pm. Ticket prices are - Adults £10, Children (under 14) £8.50. The show is not suitable for children under three years old. Tickets can be purchased from Nando’s Hairdresser’s, Birstall or contact the Box Office on 07938961054.
Pic: Page Lowe is Maid Marion, Amar Saini the Sheriff of Nottingham & Riley Smith is Robin Hood
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after their most sensitive details. We hope other organisations can learn from what went wrong in this case and ensure they know what to do to stop it happening at their organisation.” A Charnwood Borough Council spokesperson said: “We would like to sincerely apologise for the upset and distress caused by this incident. “We fully recognise the need to handle data carefully, particularly in cases where a vulnerability has been identified. “We accept the decision and recommendations of the Information Commissioner’s Office and welcome its acknowledgement that action has been swiftly taken by the Council. “Since this incident, we have given further training about managing data to staff and added data protection as a standard item to team meetings and staff one-to-ones. “We are also introducing an alert system to our processes and changing our systems to include a letter creation feature with automatic correspondence address population. We are also reviewing our letter templates to reiterate the requirement for customers to update online applications following a change of address. “Once again, we are very sorry for this error and the distress caused. We are working hard to try and ensure that something like this does not happen again.”
Festive topper on postbox stolen THE CHRISTMAS postbox topper, made by Birstall’s Knit & Natter group, was stolen on December 9. CCTV captured two people taking the topper at 9.45pm. Local police are investigating the theft. If you have any information regarding this incident, contact the police on 101 quoting crime reference 23000767409. Pics: (below) the festive postbox topper; (right) CCTV images show two people taking the topper
Disabled parking space provided A DISABLED parking bay is planned on Stonehill Avenue, outside the Post Office. The plan is being implemented by Leicestershire County Council.
The restriction will apply for 3 hours limited waiting, no return within 1 hour. The request for a parking bay was sent to Birstall County Cllr Dan Grimley by a member of the public. Each of the 55 councillors receives
£25,000 from a Members Highway Fund, to be spent on small scale highway improvements within their ward. A public consultation on the plan ended on January 5.
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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Little Panto of Horrors delights audience A MARTIAN, several baddies, a few goodies, a huge green monster, and Audrey 2, a talking man-eating plant, made an appearance at Birstall Social Club in December. HATS (Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society), produced “Little Panto of Horrors, by and with permission of Limelight Scripts. Sue Withers from HATS reports: Oh my goodness, what a fabulous show this was, full of laughter, boos and the ever-interactive audiences that always
throw themselves into the spirit of good old-fashioned British pantos. “Oh yes, they do”. Weedol, Bill and Ben were trying to close down Flora Flowerpots flower shop, and Garth Radar was busy trying to find and destroy Duke Skyrunner. However, Marvin the Martian was able to throw a spanner in the works, by producing a spectacular unique plant. Flora’s son Seymour named the plant Audrey 2 and nurtured her to mature into a fine specimen of a plant. To cut a long story short, Audrey 2 was treated to a feast fit for Royalty,
Pic: HATS members Mike Burger, Gez Stokes & Elaine Hunt present a cheque to Rosie Rollings (third from left)
consisting of a three-course meal. Starters saw Audrey 2 devour the zany dentist, followed by Weedol for the main course and finishing with Garth Radar for dessert. Audrey 2 grew into a humungous specimen any gardener would be proud of. Flora’s flower shop was saved, and Seymour proposed to his girlfriend Audrey (not Audrey 2). Comments from audience members included “fantastic as usual, makes our day” from Deb and Molly, “Great fun! Fantastic, we laughed so much” from Jacqueline and Esther, and “Amazing panto, very comedic and overall a fantastic show” from Jamie. Our raffle this time raised £235 for the Birstall Pay it Forward Project, this was added to the £119 raised at the Birstall Gala in the sum-
mer. A cheque was presented to Rosie Rollings for £354. Thanks to everyone who helped us to support them to continue their good work. Look out for further details of our Spring Play, which will be performed on May 15, 16 and 17, 2024. Check out our Facebook for regular updates and photos. www.facebook.com/hatsamdram
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Santa stops at Birstall care home BIRSTALL’S CEDAR Mews care home hosted a “Christmas cracker” of a celebration to mark the advent of the festive season. Their ‘Christmas Fun Day’ brought together residents, staff, families, and the local community to enjoy a seasonal celebration. Kicking off festivities was one of the home’s favourite entertainers, Karen, who treated partygoers to a selection of Christmas carols and festive songs. Santa’s Grotto also conjured up the magic of the North Pole and was particu-
larly enjoyed by the children, who shared their Christmas lists with Santa himself and were treated to sweet treats. A Christmas craft-making workshop gave residents the opportunity to create their own festive-themed decorations, and a Christmas gift stall offered a selection of hand-picked items that made for perfect seasonal gifts and ornaments, including furry Santa baubles and hot chocolate reindeer cones. The home’s kitchen staff team also prepared a wide array of festive treats, including mulled wine and mince pies and a selection of sandwiches, crisps, and fruit. Glasses of fizz were also available on request. Comments made by visitors included: “Thank you for making a lovely, memorable afternoon. What a wonderful team you are” “Thank you for a lovely festive afternoon. I had tears of laughter at the ‘Partridge in a pear tree’. Great memories. It is a truly amazing place with wonderful caring staff.” Cedar Mews is part of the Berkley Care Group. Pics: Santa makes an impression on the residents at the Cedar Mews care home
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Grants for young THE JHMT - Inspire Awards small grants up to £500 to help young people aged 13 to 21 years old to fulfil their potential. The awards are open to young people who live in Leicester or Leicestershire. To be eligible for an award, you need to be: Preparing or training for a competition in a significant sporting activity recognised by the Trust or Pursuing a project to benefit your local community, or An artist or musician looking to develop your talent Who can apply? Young people, aged 13 – 21, who live permanently in Leicester or Leicestershire. A trust spokesperson said: “We know that young people are sometimes thwarted in their attempts to realise their ambitions. They might not get the financial support, expert advice or counselling they need.” To apply, complete an online application form. If you require further information regarding the awards or assistance in completing your application form, contact JHMT – inspire@jhmt.org.uk To find out more, go to: http://jhmt.org.uk/inspire-awards/
Village Hall Christmas THE VILLAGE Hall was full of children excited to meet Santa at Birstall Parish Council’s Christmas event on December 8.
There were free mince pies and mulled wine for the adults, and performers from Katie’s Character entertained the children with party games.
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
Pics: Santa presents a gift to a child in Birstall Village Hall; children enjoying party games
Snow cleared for Christmas tennis party THE TENNIS courts needed to be cleared of snow for Birstall Watermead Tennis Club’s Christmas Games party. “The snow that morning didn’t deter the enthusiasm, as indoor games took place while the courts were cleared by well-wrapped-up volunteers,” said club spokeswoman Laura Wyatt. The annual family event was held on Sunday December 3 at the club on Birstall Road, with more than 70 children, along with their parents, joining in the fun. Once the courts were
Pic: (left) Krishan Lad was voted Junior BWTC Sports Personality of the Year
cleared of snow, tennis resumed in the wintry weather before everyone headed indoors for warming hot chocolates and party food. Club coach Laura Morley said: “Our aim for 2023 was to have a calendar full of events that would engage our membership, bring juniors together and create a real tennis community. Our summer event proved popular, but Festive Family Fun has certainly topped it! It’s great to see so many families braving the weather and getting into the Christmas spirit.” After a decorate-a-tennis-ball bauble competition, and pass the parcel, the party came to an end with an awards ceremony for junior members of the club. Laura said: “Well done to all
Club’s grant for pickleball
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
SILEBY TENNIS club has been awarded £1,300 through Charnwood Community Grants to promote and run pickleball classes. Sileby Tennis and Pickleball Club has recently converted a tennis court into three pickleball courts and has been promoting the game to residents across Charnwood. The borough council has provided community grants to 12 different projects totalling around £60,000 in its latest round of funding. Pickleball is a paddle sport which can be played in both singles and doubles and is a mixture of tennis, table tennis and badminton. The sport is seen as being inclusive for all ages. Cllr Liz Blackshaw, the Council’s lead member for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “I am really pleased to see how this project is going and to see the pickleball courts and sessions prove so popular. “When visiting the tennis club, it was clear to see how much it is enjoyed by members of the community and how
accessible and inclusive it is. I even enjoyed a game myself! “We are determined to support community groups through our Charnwood Community Grants scheme which can provide vital funding for projects. I encourage groups and projects to have a look at applying for a grant.” Sileby Tennis and Pickleball Club currently sees around 40 people using the pickleball courts each week with sessions running on Sunday mornings,
Monday mornings and Friday afternoons. Chairperson of Sileby Tennis Club, Nigel Peckover said: “We are proud to be promoting pickleball to the residents of Charnwood and it is great to see the fantastic reaction to the game. You can find out more details about Sileby Tennis Club and their pickleball courts at: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/SilebyTennisC lub
the juniors who showed their creative flare with the 'Ballbles' – winners were Leo Adcock, Joshua Briggs and Lola Edwards. And congratulations to Krishan Lad for being voted Junior BWTC Sports Personality of the Year!” For more information on Birstall Watermead Tennis Club, contact Laura Morley (Coach) – 07742249807 / morley131285@googlemail.com Gill Kitching (Chair) – 07734965031 / gillkitching@yahoo.co.uk
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THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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There were a variety of stalls, including a chocolate tombola, bottle tombola, guess the weight of the cake, bulb and wreath sales, a bird box sale, a cake sale, recycled Christmas decorations and
Parish Council notes
the bric-a-brac stall. Inside the church, children had the opportunity to visit Santa in his grotto. Hollie Davison said: “We would like to say a big thank you to all who were involved in organising the event and all who helped on the day. Particular thanks go to Santa and his fabulous elf!” Pic: visitors to Wanlip Christmas fair pictured inside the church
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on December 11. Chair Robert Vincent reported that the Parish Council Christmas event had been very successful and well attended. He said he had accompanied PCSO Harrison at a speed check on Birstall Road. Councillors discussed the COVID-19 mural project. It was agreed to proceed with the project and install the mural inside the Village Hall, on the back wall of the main hall. Pupils at Highcliffe School had been involved with the design of the mural and it was agreed to supply the school with a framed version of the images. A4-sized cards featuring the children’s designs can be made available to parents at the school. After considering quotations to print the artwork, it was agreed to spend £1034. Councillors discussed the precept for 2024/25. Comment was made that there had been a steep rise in the cost of utilities. The Greengate Lane cemetery project will involve extending the cemetery to create additional grave spaces and will involve a significant increase in budgeted expenditure. The council agreed to increase the precept, in principle, by 4%. Last year’s precept was £481,859. A final decision on the amount of the precept will be made at the January meeting. It was agreed to invite a representative from the developer Vestry Homes to the February meeting of the Parish Council. Vestry Homes is developing the first phase of the Broadnook Garden Suburb development. It was agreed to authorise the expenditure of £140 for the Remembrance wreath and lamppost poppies.
Group knits & natters BIRSTALL’S ‘KNIT and Natter’ group meet on Monday evenings at the Café on the Corner on Sibson Road. The group, which has 16 members, has been going for more than three years, knitting, crocheting, and making textile art. They have made popular postbox toppers that have adorned the village recent ones marked Remembrance, Halloween and Christmas. Members work on their creations in the week and bring them in on Monday nights to show them to the others, shar-
ing resources, information and ideas. “It’s good to share your craft with someone else, meet new people and have a delicious piece of cake and a drink at the same time!” said one member. To find out more about the group, call in to the Café on the Corner, 97 Sibson Road (on the corner with Stonehill Avenue). Pic: Birstall’s Knit and Natter group at the Café on the Corner: Avril Holland, Elaine White, Jan Berry, June Holmes, Cheryl Smith, Linda Evans, Jeanne Bagnall, Tracey Charity, Jeanette Armstrong and Natalia Ward
Pic: a Christmas themed postbox topper made by the group
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Pool tables at only 50p Saturday Entertainment 13th C J Jackson male vocalist 27th Kerry Jean female vocalist Room hire available for Wakes , ring 07894715049 Karen, staff & committee wish all our members a Happy New Year AGM will be on Wed 31st Jan TBC
Noticeboard all details printed free Charnwood Group of the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust
When the Kite Builds...Why and How we Restored Red Kites across Britain Wednesday February 14 at 7.30pm, Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall. Admission £3 for LRWT members and £3.50 for visitors. Dr Mike Pienkowski chaired the Red Kite Project Team from the 1980s to 1995, helping to reintroduce the bird to Britain. The RSPB described this as "the biggest species success story in U.K. conservation history". We now regularly see Red Kites over Charnwood as well as in the areas where the bird was first reintroduced. Mike will talk about the project and will also have copies of his book available for sale. This is a joint meeting with the Loughborough Naturalists Club. A.G.M. followed by "A Birdwatching Squaddie" Wednesday March 13 at 7.30pm, Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall. Admission £3 for LRWT members and £3.50 for visitors. Dave Foley will talk about how going on army exercises led him into birdwatching and the wonderful birds he has seen whilst visiting foreign shores with the army Friday Night Films in Thurcaston “Chevalier”
Charnwood Local Food Fair
diagnosis forces him to turn his life into something wonderful. He finds new energy and sets about creating a legacy for the next generation. It is inspiring! “”Allelujah!” will be shown on March 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
Birstall Royal British Legion club All old & new members will be very welcome Bingo every Tuesday starting at 9pm Quizzes every Wednesday starting at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9pm
At All Saints’ Church Thurcaston, Anstey Lane, LE7 7JA Free Entry Tues February 6, 4-8pm Refreshments & samples Artisan producers & sellers including: Demonstration from JB Kitchen, Birstall (Finalist 2023, Channel 4's 5 Star Kitchen) Agora Deli North's patisserie & deli Country Markets Pratik's Curry Club & Deli...and more More information Rev. Gough catbenefice@gmail.com 07754961997
mornings! 22 Jan: Footcare – Kay Lewin 29 Jan – ‘Slides’ with Pete and Kelvin We meet at 7.30pm in the Coffee Shop at Birstall Methodist Church on Wanlip Lane; we look forward to seeing old friends and welcoming new ones – the charge for the evening is £2 (which includes tea/coffee and sometimes cake)...men are also welcome to join us if there is something on our programme which may be of particular interest to them
Birstall Tea Dances January 12 & 26 Held at St James, Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road Birstall, Leicester, LE4 4DH please note that times have changed Fridays 2.30pm – 4.30pm £6 each on the door, Please bring you own refreshments Further Information: Contact Jackie on 07908607405, Email: lucasjackie86@gmail.com Continued on page 12
Birstall Methodist Monday Group We hope all our members had a joyful Christmas and that you are looking forward to our programme for January 2024: 15 Jan – we start back with a Quiz Night with Diane Sat 20 Jan: 10am – 12 noon - we are having a Coffee Morning for our 2023/24 Project – Age UK Dementia Support Everyone is welcome to come along and support our Coffee
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THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
Horse & Pony Feeds, Goat Feeds, Poultry Feeds, Rabbit Food, Hay Straw & Shavings Jan 12, (107 mins) Our film for the new year is an unusual period drama, telling the true story of composer, Joseph Bologne’s extraordinary life, rising through French society to become Chevalier de Saint-Georges. As well as an accomplished fencer and virtuoso violinist, Joseph was Colonel of Europe’s first Black regiment. He also fell madly in love with Marie Antoinette! This will be a superb performance by Kelvin Harrison Jr. “Living” Feb 9 (102 mins) In our February British film, set in 1953, the multi award-winning actor, Bill Nighy, gives the performance of his career. He plays a veteran civil servant, stuck in an oppressive office routine. Mr Williams’ life is empty and meaningless until a shattering medical
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The Open exhibition at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery runs until Friday 19 January 2024 The exhibition features works by local people – from complete beginners to seasoned professionals – that were selected by a panel of independent judges from almost 1,000 entries
Thursday Group wishes everyone a Happy New Year Thursday afternoons in the Coffee Shop at 2pm, new lady members welcome Jan 4: Bring your own games Jan 11: Rainbows, Gary Farnfield Jan 18: Discussion with Lynda Jan 25: Meal outing, fully booked
WEA History Course “Vienna & Berlin 1814-1914” With tutor David Price (6 week course) Thursday 25 January to 7 March 2024 (no meeting 22 February) 2-4pm At the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley An exploration of the history of Vienna and Berlin in the 19th century. How they became capital cities; the revolution in 1848-49 and its effects; massive migration as a result of industrialisation; political events; cultural developments; and some of the personalities based in these cities during this period. Fee £50.40* (*or free if you are in receipt of an income related benefit. You could also apply for Learner Discretionary Fund for a fee waiver if your household income is less than £21,000 a year). To enrol – please ring 0300 303 3464 or via WEA website at wea.org.uk quoting course ref. Q00013039
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Pic: Birstall Beat Team (l-r) PC1365 Stu Venables, PCSO 6389 Nuala Sherlock, PCSO 6174 Jon Harrison, PS 4210 Sam Flynn
Welcome to the new sergeant Sergeant 732 Pete Colgate was only with us a few weeks before being moved to another role, and as a result, we have now been allocated Sergeant 4210 Sam Flynn, who has come over from our response teams. We welcome her with open arms to the role and we are now looking forward to some continuity within the team entering the new year. Current crime trends of note Within Birstall, we have seen an increase in vehicle crime after being hit with a spate of vehicles being stolen. Vehicles varied greatly, but mainly Ford custom vans, BMW and Mercedes were targeted, and this is something we are looking into. As a result of the trends, we have increased our presence between the affected times, and are working hard to gather evidence and intelligence so that we can prevent further offences and hold those responsible to account. We have also seen a few burglaries within Birstall and the wider area, and there-
Crime Goes On Our local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, which is now closed down, had a regular column in the Birstall Post for many years, giving advice and news on how to protect yourself from becoming the victim of crime. This new column is its successor under a different heading, and it is hoped that it will continue to play a part in helping you to keep safe. At one time, we were at greatest risk from theft by strangers we never met, burglary and car crime being the most prevalent. Injury from violence inflicted by strangers was, and still is, thankfully very rare. One regular concern has been rogue traders who knock on the doors of elderly and vulnerable people and trick them into parting with their hardearned money for inferior or non-existent goods and services. None of these risks have gone away, and we still need to remain vigilant to keep our neighbourhoods safe from those criminals. Making sure that our homes and vehicles are secure and looking out for neighbours who might be more vulnerable than others are important ways of keeping everyone safe. In recent years, however, the growth of the internet and social media has made us all vulnerable to a range of new risks. Online crime is now a multi-billion-pound industry that tricks victims into selecting themselves. Instead of ‘casing’ individual addresses to see whether
fore, as always, please be extra vigilant. If you see something that does not feel/look right or hear something about this type of crime, please let us know without delay, as this is used to build our intelligence picture and greatly appreciated.
tered on the national database for free. Thieves do not like cycles that are registered as it makes it harder for them to get rid of and therefore less attractive to steal. Obviously, it will not deter all our offenders, but over 80% less likely to be stolen if registered.
Crime Prevention/Bike Register If Santa has brought a load of new cycles to Birstall, please come and show us them at one of our upcoming events (all advertised on www.leics.police.uk) and we will get them marked and regis-
Neighbourhood Link We are encouraging residents of Birstall & Wanlip to sign up to Neighbourhood Link, which is a free community messaging service. Neighbourhood Link is a fast and easy alert system that allows residents to keep up to date with local news and issues in their area. Alternatively, by using the QR codes below, you can sign up and complete a survey which will be used to form our local priorities. Confidence Survey
the occupants are easy prey, the criminal scammers flood the system with false messages and telephone calls. They work on the principle that even if just a few percent of the recipients respond, that will still be a lot of potential victims. If a complete stranger stopped you in the street, warned you that pickpockets were active in the area and told you to give them your purse or wallet for safekeeping, you might smell a rat. Yet every day people do something very similar when a complete stranger phones or messages them out of the blue. Scammers are usually very good at what they do and can be very persuasive as they draw their victims into their trap. However, following a few simple rules can protect you from most of them. Never give any of your personal details to anyone you do not know, even if they already know some things about you. The Police, banks and other official organisations will never contact you when you are not expecting them, to ask for such details. Never move money from your own to another account because someone you do not know tells you to do it. The bank account that you control will always be the safest place for it, not one that is controlled by a stranger. Always take time to think, and do not be panicked into doing something against your better judgement. If you are worried or unsure about what to do, make sure you talk it over with someone you know and trust before making any decisions that you might come to regret. By Ed Chambers
Your Views Survey
Message from PC 1365 Stu Venables Happy New Year to you all, and let's hope that 2024 will be prosperous for us all. During this month, we will be provisionally setting out our calendar and adding new events to our website, therefore if you are aware or involved in any community groups within Birstall & Wanlip please let us know about them so Continued on page 13
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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Continued from page 12 we can pop in and meet you. Additionally, if you are aware of any issues that affect the community where you live or that you have noticed in and around Birstall and Wanlip, feel free to let us know so that we can arrange for some patch walks to take place with our partner agencies and local councillors, bringing those that can help address the issues to the affected areas at the relevant times, to generate discussions linked to resolution or problem management.
Pic: a speed check on Birstall Road
Please let us know via making direct contact with me or the team so that we can make some plans to combat issues affecting you and the wider community, you can either send me an email: stuart.venables@leics.police.uk or attend one of our beat surgeries to do this. Message from PCSO 6389 Nuala Sherlock I hope that you have all had a lovely Christmas, and I very much look forward to seeing more of you in the new year, as it has been so nice stopping and chatting with some of you when I have been out and about. Stolen knitted topper ‘I have been out collecting evidence from different locations surrounding the post-box and I’m now in possession of some top-quality images of the pair involved, which will be circulated in due course if necessary. I appeal to the two individuals involved to come a see me, before I see them.’
WI news
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI held their Christmas meeting at the British Legion on December 4. We shared Secret Santa gifts and made quilted Christmas tree decorations guided by our speaker, Carolyn Boulter. We heard feedback from ladies who attended trips to see the lights at Kew, guided walks around Leicester, and to the Curve to see Evita. £400 was raised by our stall at the Methodist Church Tree Festival, and this was shared between Birstall Food Bank, the Methodist Church Warm Spaces and the British Legion. We had a lovely Christmas meal at the Bradgate Arms on December 11 and thanks were given to Maxilyn for organising it. Several of us are going on a Federation trip to Eastbourne in mid-January, and we meet again on January 8, when our speaker will be Peter Fox, taking us on a ‘Magical History Tour’. The competition is ‘the oldest condiment in your pantry. From Birstall & Wanlip WI
Community shop’s low prices COMMUNITY SHOP Stocking Farm, on Marwood Road in Leicester, is part of the UK’s first social supermarket network which is celebrating 10 years of transforming lives through surplus food. The shop provides access to highquality, deeply discounted surplus food and household products, and membership is available to people living in Birstall. As one of 12 Community Shop stores across the UK, Community Shop Stocking Farm delivers affordable, dignified, and sustainable food aid for local individuals and families living on the cusp of food poverty. All items sold in Community Shop are perfectly good to eat or use and have been mostly donated by major retailers and manufacturers after being deemed as “surplus” for reasons such as incorrect or wonky labelling, seasonal packaging or overstock. These products otherwise may have gone to waste. Revenue raised from the in-store sales is re-invested into the Community Hub, where members can access personal development support, with sessions including everything from cookery clubs and home budgeting, to interview skills and business courses. The store will also house a Community Kitchen that offers at-cost wholesome hot meals to members and their families, with children eating for free. Birstall is within a 5-mile radius of the Community Shop in Stocking Farm, which means Birstall residents can join the shop - joining is free. Residents need to be in receipt of a means-tested benefit Credit and in order to qualify. Means-tested benefits are available to Working Tax Credit), Housing Benefit, people whose income and capital are Council Tax Support, below a certain level. The means-tested Social Fund (Sure benefits are Income-based Jobseeker’s Start Maternity Grant, Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Funeral Payment, Cold Weather PayPension Credit, Tax Credits (Child Tax
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ment) and Universal Credit. If you think you may be eligible, contact Community Shop Stocking Farm directly about membership. membership@companyshop.co.uk, or drop in. As the ninth store to open, Community Shop Stocking Farm alone has supported 3,107 local families, with members having saved £2,032,753 on their shopping baskets and shared 1,197,202 meals in the Community Hubs and Kitchens in just one year since opening in 2022. Pics: the Community Shop, Stocking Farm
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Supporters thanked WE WOULD like to thank the community for their support during the last year. We still have ladies quilting for the hospital children’s wards and making beautiful angel gowns for the maternity unit. Thanks to Julie Harris for dropping them off and distributing them. I’m sure they will bring cheer to the clinical areas. We have again supported local families with gifts for children and food over the festive period. The Scouts again were amazing collecting food and this will be gifted like last year to anyone in our community needing it. Anything left at
Helping our Community LE4 Birstall
the end of January will be gifted to the food bank. Thank you to Birstall Parish Council for the donation of mince pies and food items. Everyone receiving Christmas dinner received a box of mince pies. The other items went into the hampers. Pics: (left) Quilts made for the hospital’s children’s ward; (right) angel gowns made for the maternity unit
Thank you to everyone who donated gifts for the children, and thank you to the lady that every year has donated for the families in need. Funds raised at the Christmas fayre went towards the purchase of gifts. The community rallied to support Falcon Services with much-needed clothes, bedding and toiletries for the homeless in Charnwood. We again provided Christmas dinners to those alone or in need, on a #pay it forward basis, a massive thanks to Ruth ex Lambourne Café for providing the dinners. Thanks to St Theresa’s for the donation from their coffee shop, and the items gifted following the Christmas Fayre. HATs have supported us throughout the year, donating over £500. Thank you for your continued support. If we can help in any way, please get in touch on 0789 499 5164.
Childcare MANY WORKING families are unaware of the government’s tax-free childcare scheme, according to the latest data from HMRC. Citizens Advice Charnwood explains what it is, who might be eligible and how to claim. The tax-free childcare scheme (TFC) is a government scheme introduced in April 2017 to help working parents with the cost of childcare. Parents can open an online savings account, which they can use to pay for childcare from an accredited and registered provider. Currently, it is possible to save up to £2,000 per child per year. For every £8 parents pay in, the government will add an extra £2. Those eligible are: Working parents, including the selfemployed, with children 0-11 (16 if disabled) if one or more of the following applies: both you and your partner work 16 hours per week or more (earning at least National Minimum Wage) (NMW) or National Living Wage (NLW) your individual annual employment income is below £100,000 you are a single parent you have a child or children aged under 12 (under 17 if disabled).
From Rosie Rollings
YOUR SAY... PHOTO: iStock.com/Panuwat Dangsungnoen
New Year’s Resolution 2024 Join a lipreading class!
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
Thanks I had a fall on Fielding Road on November 20, 2023 and I would very much like to thank the two kind ladies who came to help me, also the gentleman who came to let my family know what had happened. So, thank you all so much for your help and kindness. Helen Ball, Went Rd, Birstall
Group could help you IF YOU have hearing loss, why not make it a New Year’s resolution to find out more about lipreading groups and how they can help you make the most of your hearing?
Birstall Lipreading Group meets at Birstall Library every Saturday morning, 10am – 12 noon. All sessions are led by a qualified lipreading teacher who will guide members through a range of activities based on a topical theme: we’ve covered everything from ‘National Curry Week’ to ‘World Toilet Day’ (yes, there is such a Thanks thing!) In addition to lots of lipreading pracMy family and I offer grateful thanks tice, we work on improving memory, for the many messages of support, comfort , tributes and sympathy from friends, concentration and stamina - and cover some of the theory behind why you neighbours and BADAS members on the might ‘mishear’ a word or phrase. loss of my wife Jean. Special thanks to We are a very friendly group with the Community Nursing and Palliative Care teams, always courteous and cheer- varying levels of hearing, but we have one common aim: to take back some ful when attending to her in her last control over our hearing loss experience. days. We are supported by The Leslie EdTed Bates
wards Trust, a small local charity, which allows us to keep fees low at just £4 per session (£40 per 10-week term). We currently have spaces for four new members in the spring term of 2024. If you are interested in attending a free trial session, please contact Jenny Cluley: Email: jenny@readinglips.online Phone: 07889 544997 From Birstall Lipreading Group
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You can check your eligibility, how to apply and how to pay your childcare provider by following this link to the gov.uk website https://www.gov.uk/get-tax-free-childcare You can’t join TFC if you use: Universal credit, Tax Credits, Childcare Vouchers (closed to new entrants). Families claiming universal credit can claim back up to 85% of childcare costs. Upcoming Changes From April 2024, there will be significant changes coming to 15 and 30 hours of childcare support in England, which will be extended in phases to include children from 9 months to school age. Sign up for more details on how and when to register at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk Our Local Enquiry Line is 01509 649605, open Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays 9.30am-3pm. The National Advice Line is open Mondays-Fridays 9am-5pm on Freephone 0800 144 8848. Our website is www.charnwoodcab.org.uk & online advice can be found on www.citizensadvice.org.uk We are currently looking for Trustees to join our team. As a trustee, you will have the chance to help lead an organisation dedicated to the advice needs of Charnwood residents. If you are interested, more information can be found on the website www.charnwoodcab.org.uk/become-atrustee, or you can contact our Administrator by email: admin@charnwoodcab.co.uk Volunteers from all backgrounds are welcome. From Citizens Advice Charnwood
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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Lunch club enjoys a Christmas feast 70 MEMBERS, guests and volunteer helpers of Birstall Methodist Lunch Club shared a traditional Christmas lunch of roast turkey with all the trimmings. Pic: Santa and his helper
The meal was prepared by Karen and Ginnie from Birstall Royal British Legion, and carol singing was led by Eileen and friends. A surprise visit from Santa added to the atmosphere. The Lunch Club was formed 50 years ago and meets regularly every Wednesday at the Methodist Church. It is run by 35 volunteer helpers who mostly work on a four-weekly rota. The group welcomes any retired resident of Birstall to join in sharing a two-course lunch, plus a hot drink, costing £8.50. For further details contact: 07928 864586.
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THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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Pics: (top) volunteers serving the meal are (l-r) Pat Towson, Olwen Guildford, Jean Bagnall & Sandra Mumford
Christmas fun at Half Pints
EXCITED CHILDREN at Half Pints Childcare on Loughborough Road greeted Santa when he visited with a sack of presents. The children were enjoying Christmas party games when they heard bells ringing at the door, which opened to reveal Santa, who they welcomed with squeals of excitement. “We would like to wish all our families a very Happy New Year,” said a Half Pints spokesperson.
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Flower Chorus keep busy singing Club Christmas AT THE end of last November, Birstall Flower Club held our much anticipated Christmas Meeting.
THE HEART of England Chorus has successfully performed at several different venues over the course of the past few weeks.
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Our Barber Shop Style Chorus gave fabulous sing-out sessions at Birstall Methodist Church Christmas Fayre, Syston Christmas Fayre, the RSPCA and Beaumont Leys Shopping Centre. With the exception of the Methodist Church, all of the other events were performed outdoors, so the order of the day was to brave the cold weather, wrap up warm and sing to the public. Our members smiled throughout and received positive responses from all who stopped to listen. We performed a mixture of songs, including some familiar barbershop-style songs, together with a good selection of Christmas Carols. Our sing out at Beaumont Leys shopping centre was to support LOROS in raising much needed funds to help with the fantastic work they do all year round. They raised £186.70p. Thank you to all who supported their collection. We knew it would be a special occasion. Singing is clearly our main focus, Warm spiced fruit cup and homemade ì ì mince pies (delicious Pat) were served to ì ì members and guests. Carols played in the ì ì background, and there were scarves and ì ì handmade jewellery for sale. ì ì ì ì Our demonstrator, Di Smith, a wellRoof leaks • Flat Roofs ì ì known member of the North Midlands ì Jet Washing • Moss Removal ì Area Committee and an extremely experiì ì Gutters Cleaned, Fixed ì ì enced flower arranger, introduced her ì ì & Repaired theme of Rejoice! Rejoice! ì ì Her theme was echoed in her floral ì General Property Maintenance ì arrangements, including angels, a cosy ìì ìì hearth scene, table decorations and others ì ì ìì ìì ìì all embellished with lights and baubles. ìì ìì Her stories of her work in a farm office ìì ìì ìì and helping out at her local church in the ìì
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however, we often have goodies to eat on rehearsal evenings, hold regular in-house raffles, and we have just had our yearly awards social evening together with lots of food, which was enjoyed by everyone. So, as well as the singing, it’s also a way to meet new friends and expand your social activities. We meet at Birstall Social Club on Monday evenings from 7.30-10pm. If you are interested in the chorus singing at your events/functions or would like to join our group, contact John Phillips for details on 07738 526757 or email HOEChorus@gmail.com
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Lucky members and guests won a raffle prize of an arrangement. A lovely festive evening was enjoyed by all, and we look forward to another year of friendly meetings and trips and beautiful flower demonstrations which bring us all together. The Flower Club wishes you all a Happy New Year. From Birstall Flower Club
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THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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Charnwood’s photo winners
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CHARNWOOD BOROUGH Council ran its ‘Love the Outdoors in Charnwood’ photo competition again this summer, following its popularity with residents last year. Over 120 entries were received across the three categories of Young Photographer, Wonderful Wildlife and the Open Category. From photographs of cows at Beacon Hill and close-ups of bumblebees at Stonebow Washlands to photos of squirrels and pheasants, there was a huge variety of nature showcased in the Wonderful Wildlife category. However, it was a photo of a yellowhammer (top, right)which was selected as the category winner. Malcolm Heaven from Rearsby, who took the photo, said: “Yellowhammers are not always easy to find, and even more difficult to photograph, but for once this little one was happy to pose for me while singing his heart out in Bradgate Park.” Brandon Cheng, aged 8, and from Loughborough, was chosen as the winner of the Young Photographer for his snap of a tree at Bradgate Park (above,). He said: “I was so excited when my dad told me I had won. I enjoy discovering different parts of the park, and I love how natural the tree is in the photo!”
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THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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Team’s invitation to new players A WOMEN’S rugby team is inviting all women to join them. “No matter what size, shape or fitness, all women are welcome. We have players ranging from 18 to 52 years old,” said spokeswoman Heather Winterton, from Sileby Women’s Rugby team. She added: “Want to make friends whilst improving your fitness? Do you want to try something new and feel supported? Come and try rugby with the Sileby Women’s Rugby team. No experience is necessary - we offer taster sessions.” The club hosts social events and raises money for local charities. “We empower women to be the best version of themselves,” said Heather. The club trains on Thursday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Platts Lane Recreation Ground, Cossington. https://www.facebook.com/SilebyLadies www.tiktok.com/@silebyvikingladiesrug by https://www.instagram.com/silebyvikin gsladies/
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look ahead with full confidence in the promise of God, who so often said throughout the Bible that He will be with us at all times. Jesus Christ told His and poems that added colour and interfollowers just before His Ascension, “Beest to the evening. The excellent concert hold, I am with you all the days until the of Christmas Crackers from Highcliffe end of the world.” Harmony and Melody Blue performed a As we launch into 2024, we can echo variety of Christmas music, including six the words of our hymns this month, the pieces of Christmas around the world, first of which is ‘God holds the key of all one of them sung in Hawaiian! unknown’. It continues: ‘I cannot read A traditional Sunday evening candle-lit His future plans, but this I know: I have carol service was led by a brass ensemthe smiling of His face and all the refuge ble of friends and our mini orchestra. of His grace, while here below … for The church was beautifully decorated what I cannot, He can see and in His with Christmas decorations, candles and care I saved shall be, for ever blest.’ a large decorated Christmas tree. The There is some confusion about the auservice had many of the familiar carols, thor of this hymn: some sources credit hymns and readings, and the refreshJoseph Parker (1830-1902), an English ments afterwards included an apparently Congregational minister, while other inexhaustible supply of mince pies! sources give the author as John Parker We all looked forward to the nativity (1825-1911), a Methodist minister who service with the Sunday Club and other immigrated to the USA. Whoever penned volunteer performers. It included the the words, they remain true. The other Bethlehem Broadcasting Corporation hymn this month is by Georg Neumark (BBC) and some additional Kings that (1621-1681), who lived during the time arrived too late because their sat nav of the Thirty Years' War, when social went wrong, sending them to the Sea of and economic conditions in Germany Galilee instead! were deplorable. He had personal trials As we prepared ourselves to welcome as well: losing all his possession twice – the birth of Jesus, we heard that the once when attacked by highwaymen festive lights that normally shine bright while travelling and again through a in Bethlehem will not be lit this year in house fire. He also became blind at the memory of all those killed in the recent end of his life. His hymn was translated violence. To show that we are standing by Catherine Winkworth in the 19th alongside our sisters and brothers in Century. Neumark’s hymn says: ‘Leave Christ in the Holy Land, and all who God to order all thy ways and hope in mourn this Christmas, we have left our Him whate’er betide; thou wilt find Him second Advent candle unlit this Advent. in the evil days thy all-sufficient strength On January 14, we will be holding and guide: who trusts in God’s unchangour annual Covenant Service for the ing love builds on the rock that nought whole church. This is when we all renew can move.’ our commitment to God, our church, All at BIBC wish you a peaceful and and our community. This has been done happy 2024. You are warmly invited to since the earliest days of Methodist socie- join us for our Sunday services – see the ties, and there are many who find it diary section for details, or contact us: useful to rededicate themselves to a life http://www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk of Christian service. or 0116 2214883.
News from the churches
THE CONGREGATION of St. James is now quite happily settled into its 'Winter Quarters' - this being the original old church, steeped in history, with beautiful stained-glass windows and with the added advantage of being much easier to keep warm! Christmas has been and gone, with the carols and special services, leaving us to welcome in a New Year. St James Music Night was very successful, with the wonderful result of donations of £540 for the church funds. £400 has been raised through the sale of knitted stockings, bags, mince pies and chocolates towards the alteration of the church office, notoriously chilly (!) and this will definitely help to make it a warmer environment to work in and to visit. To start the New Year off to a good beginning - the Welcome Space has celebrated its one-year anniversary and has secured funding from the County Council to continue for a second year, with the additional opening every Wednesday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm, starting January 3. The Tuesday opening will resume on January 2, 2024, with hot drinks, snacks and friendly chat. The New Year also brings Old Nicks Coffee Shop, in Wanlip Community Hall, the Monday Group meetings in St James and, of course, the WI, also in St James. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the hand-bell-ringers group is now disbanded. Work for the Children's Society and Save the Children carries on unabated and with enthusiasm for raising funds for those charities, needed more than ever during the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, where children are the victims. As the war in Ukraine continues, donations for medical aid and equipment, non-perishable foods, toiletries and warm clothing are still urgently needed, and all donations can be brought to St James Church, from whence they will be taken to the Ukraine Centre in Leicester. Happy New Year to you all. From St James and Our Lady and St Nicholas, Wanlip.
THERE WERE a number of musical events held at the Methodist Church in December. The Ratby Brass Band treated us to a lunchtime concert of lively music. Then the Kingfisher Chorale entertained their audience with an eclectic selection of seasonal music, with some recitations
From Birstall Methodist Church
“I am with you” After 153 BC, January became the first month of the Roman calendar (which we adopted). Their god Janus, regarded by the Romans as the protector of gates and doorways, was seen as a picture-perfect symbol for new beginnings and he’s depicted with two faces, one looking into the past and the other into the future. It is from his name that we get the name ‘January’. At the start of January, we often review the past twelve months and look ahead to plans for the coming year. We can look ahead with hope and confidence or with anxiety and trepidation – or a mixture of both. Christians know that they can always
From Birstall Independent Church
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Adult learning courses discount GOLEARN, LEICESTERSHIRE County Council’s Adult Learning Service, is offering a 20 per cent discount on all course fees for learners looking to find a new passion or gain a qualification in 2024. The adult learning service offers hundreds of courses in venues across Leicestershire for adults aged 19+, with 70 per cent reduced fees available for those on a low income or receiving certain benefits. Adult learning courses are designed to support adults in Leicestershire to improve their well-being and gain the confidence and qualifications needed to start their careers. Courses are part-time and designed around life and work. For those looking to develop or start their career journey, the service offers digital skills, English and maths qualifications, alongside ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), employability and family learning opportunities. There are also Better Mental Health courses to support people experiencing, or recovering from, mental ill-health to understand the next steps in recovery. Di, a maths and English learner based in Enderby, said of her learning: “I left school with no English or maths qualifications. The GoLearn course gets me out of the house and meeting people. “I prefer to come to class, I like the interactions. I’ve got a brilliant group in maths and English. My confidence has increased and know things I didn’t know before. “It’s getting my brain going. It gives me something extra to put on my CV. I have a brilliant tutor in Radha.” Paul Fleming, Head of Adult Learning, said: “GoLearn prides itself on making courses accessible, and the 20 per cent discount on course fees is a fantastic offer for people wishing to pursue a new interest or gain a new skill. “To avoid missing out on this great opportunity, I would encourage everyone to look at the courses on offer and enrol before January 31, 2024.” The discount is available across the entire 2023/24 programme and can be used in conjunction with the 70 per cent reduced fee for learners on a low income or in receipt of certain benefits. To learn more about what GoLearn can offer in 2024, call freephone 0800 988 0308 (lines are open Monday-Friday 8.30am to 7pm) or visit the GoLearn website.
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
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Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Cancer Treatment – Hormone Therapy It has been quite a year for Birstall BAGs. We had our 25th birthday, have seen our support groups regain their momentum and have managed some significant donations to the University Hospitals of Leicester and Rainbows. All of this is thanks to the wonderful, generous Birstall BAGs community. What you have achieved through your kind donations and fundraising is simply fabulous, and we are truly grateful - thank you all. Following on with our series of articles about some of the less well-known cancer treatment options, this month we would like to talk about Hormone Therapy. The Hormone System The hormone system is a network of glands and organs in the body that produce hormones. It is also called the endocrine system. The diagram shows the main parts of the hormone system. There are many different hormones. For example, the ovaries produce two sex hormones – oestrogen and proges-
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
terone, the pancreas makes insulin, and the adrenal glands make several hormones, including a natural steroid called cortisol. These hormones are carried around our body in our bloodstream and act as messengers between one part of our body and another. Each hormone has a different function. They control how we respond to changes in the environment around us as well as: growth and development how the body works our mood sexual function reproduction The hormones travel from the gland
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to its target cells and connect to a part of the cell called a receptor. The connection triggers a response in the cell. The type of response depends on the type of hormone. HORMONE THERAPY The hypothalamus and the pituitary gland in the brain control the whole including your type of cancer. Below is hormone system, including the levels of some information about different hormones in the body. types of hormone therapy. Hormones and cancer Breast Cancer and HorSome cancer cells can mone Therapy produce hormones that The female hormones circulate in the body and oestrogen and progesterone cause symptoms. This is affect some breast cancers. called paraneoplastic Doctors describe these syndrome. The sympcancers as oestrogen receptoms depend on the partor positive (ER+) or progesticular hormone produced. For terone receptor positive (PR+), or example, some types of lung cancer cells both. Hormone treatment for breast produce hormones that may cause: cancer works by stopping these horpins and needles mones from getting to the breast cancer numbness in the fingers or toes cells. muscle weakness Prostate Cancer and Hormone Theradizziness py a change in the balance of salt Prostate cancer depends on testosterand water in the body (SIADH) one to grow. Hormone therapy blocks Hormones or lowers the amount of testosterone in the body. and cancer This can lower the risk of an early treatments prostate cancer coming back when you Some have it with other treatments. Or, it can cancers use shrink an advanced prostate cancer or hormones to slow its growth. grow or develop. This Womb Cancer and Hormone Therapy The female hormones oestrogen and means the progesterone affect the growth and activicancer is ty of the cells that line the womb. Dochormone tors use progesterone treatment to help sensitive or shrink larger womb cancers or to treat hormone womb cancers that have come back. dependent. Side Effects of Hormone Therapy Hormone Women - Many women find that the therapy for side effects are often worse at the start cancer uses of treatment. They usually settle down medicines to after a few weeks or months. block or The side effects you might get depend lower the on the type of hormone therapy that you amount of are having. Some side effects are comhormones in the body to stop or slow mon to all hormone therapies. Some down the growth of cancer. effects vary from drug to drug, but they Hormone therapy stops hormones include tiredness, sickness, constipation, from being made or prevents hormones diarrhoea, and reduced appetite. You from making cancer cells grow and may also start your menopause when divide. It does not work for all cancers. you begin hormone therapy and experiCancers that can be hormone sensience hair thinning, joint pains, weight tive include: gain, headaches, mood swings and membreast cancer ory problems. prostate cancer Men- many men find that the side ovarian cancer effects are often worse at the start of womb cancer (also called uterine treatment. They usually settle down after or endometrial cancer) a few weeks or months. Types of Hormone Therapy The side effects you might have deThe type of hormone therapy you pend on the type of hormone therapy have depends on a number of factors, that you are having. Some side effects are common to all hormone therapies. Some vary from drug to drug. You might not have all of these side effects, but they include tiredness, problems getting an erection (imDomestic Appliance potence), hot flushes and sweating, Spares & Repairs breast tenderness, weight gain, memory All Leading Makes Serviced problems, mood swings, depression, 20 Years Experience changes to your bones such as thinning and your risk of heart problems might Washers • Dryers • Dishwashers increase. Fridges • Cookers If you are currently being treated and GAS & ELECTRIC wonder if Hormone Therapy might be appropriate for you, please speak to your health care team. David Preston - 0775 262 3885 Birstall BAGs look forward to sharing www.1-4-all.co.uk more cancer information with our com-
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munity next year, until then a safe, com- 19 fortable and happy Christmas to you all. 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.
THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson Editorial/Advertising
0116 4422067 Correspondence, news etc can be emailed or handed in at our office: Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings Leicester LE4 3BR,
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Planning P/23/2370/2: 68 Roman Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4BA Proposed single storey front and rear extension; first floor side extension with front and rear dormer and alterations P/23/2360/2: 126 Wanlip Lane Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4GF Erection of single storey front extension and two storey rear extension P/23/2234/2: Land North of Birstall Leicestershire Birstall Access, appearance, landscaping, layout and scale of Road 3b, 3c, 3d and 4b P/23/2305/2: 39 Curzon Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4AF Application to prune 1no Beech tree (T1) protected by Charnwood Borough Council Tree Preservation Order. Proposed works are to crown reduce by 30%. P/23/2311/2: 12 - 14 Front Street Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4DP T1 - Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) - Thin out crown by 10% with a focus on epicormic regrowth around previous reduction points. Remove lower truncated branches encroaching on the garden path and the poorly formed. Reduce and reshape the crown accordingly T2 - Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) - Reduce lateral spread on each side by 0.5m to 1m. Crown lift where necessary to reduce shading in this area of the garden P/23/2318/2: 3 Tempest Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3BD New retaining wall and raising levels to match existing neighbouring wall P/23/2243/2: 25 Saltersgate Drive Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3FG Erection of single storey side extension following demolition of garage and erection of outbuilding to rear. P/23/2271/2: 51 Queensgate Drive Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3JS Erection of single storey side/rear extension P/23/2166/2: 49 Wanlip Lane Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4JU Erection of first floor side and rear extension
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Rothley wine ROTHLEY WINE Estate was a winner at the Leicestershire 2023 Tourism and Hospitality Awards. Liz Robson's vineyard on Westfield Lane won the category ‘Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism’ at the spectacular awards evening, held at Athena in Leicester. Liz Robson said: “It was a great evening. I am so glad I went - and came home with a trophy!” Some of the other winners were Holywell House, Winstanley House, The Spa at Breedon Priory, Brook Meadow, The Griffin Inn and Cosby Yarn Bomb.
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Wreath making workshop Mary very expertly demonstrated how to make a Christmas wreath for the door or table. She is an experienced flower arranger and member of the bowls club. Mary gave many handy tips and advice, all adding up to a most interesting and informative afternoon with plenty of laughter and merriment along the way. The session was rounded off with coffee and mince pies. From St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club Specialist Wedding Gown Cleaning Open: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9-5pm Wed & Sat: 9-1pm
smcbc.com Pic: Christmas wreaths at St Margaret’s Bowls Club
THE BIRSTALL POST JANUARY 2024
SOMETHING OF an annual event at St Margaret’s Bowls Club has been a wreath-making workshop led by Mary Linnett at the beginning of December.