Mountsorrel Post Jun 2010 (31)

MOUNTSORREL POST Shop YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER Delivered

to Mountsorrel, four times a year

JUNE 2010

ISSUE No. 31

330 new houses?

A MOUNTSORREL shop owner was threatened with scissors as raiders tried to leave his shop with crates of beer.

DEVELOPERS JELSONS want to build up to 330 houses on Halstead Road, Mountsorrel.

They have submitted a planning application for the 15.8 hectare site which is opposite the junction with Walton Way and is currently farmland.

Mountsorrel Parish Council is objecting to the plans. It says the development would increase traffic on local roads, and that the existing community facilities, such as doctors and schools, could not cope.

Lafarge’s quarry is on the northern boundary of the site and Lafarge has submitted a detailed objection to the plans to Charnwood Borough Council.

Hundreds of local residents have also registered their objections to the plans. One is Sandi Deakin of Swithland Lane, who printed and delivered 1000 leaflets to nearby homes when the plans were published in March.

She said: “These proposals are outrageous.

The big issue for me is health services. I know lots of people who struggle to get appointments at the doctors, or even to get registered there. The schools are also under pressure.

“Traffic to and from the site will have nowhere to go except through the village making our streets rat runs.”

theft arrests

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Niraj Samani of Bargain Booze on Rothley Road pulled down the security shutter of his shop as the robbers made to leave without paying. At this point Mr Samani was threatened with the scissors and let them go.

The incident happed on April 3. The raiders were captured on CCTV and on May 19 a 15 year old male was arrested and charged with theft and affray. On May 20 a second youth, aged 17, was arrested and charged with theft.

At the time of going to press they were due to appear at Loughborough Youth Court on June 3.

Continued from page 1 Mountsorrel Parish Council has accepted an offer from former chairman Will Antill to prepare a document objecting to the plans.

This will identify that the local school and doctor’s surgery is full to capacity, and that the local road network could not cope with the extra traffic generated. The document will also point out flaws in the planning application, such as the lack of community involvement in preparing the plans and a mistaken approach to the design character of the proposed dwellings.

Leicestershire County Council as the Highway’s authority is recommending the plans be refused on the grounds that “the existing highway network is inadequate to cater for the traffic generated by the proposed development.”

Jelson Homes say the development should be permitted because Charnwood Borough Council’s five year housing supply falls short of the requirement set out in the Regional Plan.

But a new approach to planning may emerge following the Queen’s speech – the new government has indicated that it wants to move away from a top down to a bottom up approach. This would mean local councils would determine how much development is needed, rather than having targets imposed by Government in Regional Plans.

The planning application, P/10/0501/2, is expected to be determined at a planning committee at Charnwood Borough Council in mid June.

Should the application be refused, the developers may choose to appeal the decision, or submit a revised application.

Remembering Harold Newman THE GENTLEMAN who was affectionately known as ‘Mr Mountsorrel’ passed away on Saturday May 1, 2010 just a few days before his 87th birthday.

Although Cllr Harold Newman spent the first 10 days of his life at his grandparents’ home in Barrow-Upon-Soar, the only child of Ernest and Lillian, the family lived at 21 Hawcliffe, Road Mountsorrel and it was in this village that he lived for the rest of his life.

Upon leaving school at the age of 14 Harold had wanted to take up an apprenticeship as a baker but this was not possible. He was employed at Brush Transformers in Loughborough and accepted an engineering apprenticeship at RAF Cosford. He became the Mountsorrel Village Postmaster in the early 1960’s. Upon retirement in February 1987 he and his first wife Sheila, who was evacuated from Bromley, Kent in

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 2

1944, moved to live in Glamis Close. Sadly, Sheila passed away on Christmas Eve of that year. In 1989 Harold married Beryl Charles – who was also a retired postmistress.

Harold was a committed Christian in the Methodist tradition and was an active member of Mountsorrel Methodist Church where he served on many church committees. He

had been a Mountsorrel Parish Councillor for over 50 years, including twice as its chairman, and had represented the village on Charnwood Borough Council. He was involved with the formation of the Acorn Youth Club at Loughborough Road Methodist Church and had been a governor of Quorn Rawlins Community College and of Mountsorrel’s Christ Church & St Peter’s Primary School.

For many years Harold was the Mountsorrel Correspondent for the Loughborough Echo. He was responsible for setting up the ‘Village’s Best Kept Garden Competition’ and in 1977 he was responsible for starting Mountsorrel’s famous tradition of United Charities’ Fetes and Fairs – these events are still held each year. He was a very knowledgeable person regarding the history and heritage of Mountsorrel and was well-known for the informative guided walks which he used to lead around the village. In October 2008 Harold presented an evening of his memories entitled ‘1,000 Years of Mountsorrel’s History’. We are privileged that his talk was recorded onto a CD for future generations to appreciate.

In 1997 Harold announced that “he was winding down these days and was now sitting on just 28 committees”. In February of last year, after being diagnosed with cancer of the kidney, he vowed that “I will not let this diagnosis get in the way of my beloved voluntary and community work. I live on faith and prayer”. Harold shared his Christian faith to the end.

Following a private cremation a thanksgiving for Harold’s life was held at Mountsorrel Methodist Church to which over 200 members of the wider community attended. After the welcome, which was given by Rev E Adam Wells, the church’s current minister, the service was led by Rev William H Anderson who is a family friend and who was a former minister at the church. During the service Deacon Jan Sutton paid tribute to ‘Harold Newman – Methodist’; Christopher Newman paid tribute to his father ‘Harold Newman – Public Servant’ and Rev Paul R Newman gave thanksgiving to his father ‘Harold Newman – A Life’. Janet Norburn paid tribute to a wonderful step-father whilst her husband, John, was the organist for the service.

Donations in lieu of flowers were received to support both LOROS and Marie Curie Cancer Support. Light refreshments were served afterwards by members of the church.

Harold Newman: May 10, 1923 – May 1, 2010

Café art project 62 YOUNG people attended a graffiti workshop at Mountsorrel’s new youth café.

Held over the Easter period, youth workers, volunteers and two artists led the workshop which saw the creation of a mural of village scenes.

Spokeswoman Leslie Strange said: “It was intended as an introduction to the café and was a great success. We now have a wonderful piece of artwork in the café”.

The café, located on the Green, is currently being refurbished, and the organisers are advertising for a full time youth worker.

The café will be having an

open day on June 12 from 10am to 2pm for people to find out more about the project. www.sycafe.org

New waste facilty THE COUNTY Council have started work on Mountsorrel’s new £1million waste and recycling centre on Granite Way. The County say the facility should open by November.

It will be able to process 25,000 tonnes of household waste every year and will have facilities to recycle cooking oil, Tetra Paks, batteries and yoghurt pots, as well as dispose of household waste.

Tel: 0116 267 2583 Mob: 07967 191975 Buy DELL products here

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 3

100th birthday party FRIENDS AND family presented Mountsorrel’s May Swift with gifts and cards at a party to celebrate her 100th birthday.

On Sunday April 11, May enjoyed a surprise party at the Methodist Church Hall, arranged by her daughter Angela and family with over 50 family and friends attending.

May had lived in the same house in Hawthorne Road Mountsorrel since 1953 when her husband Frank was transferred to the Mountsorrel Rolls Royce factory. The Hawthorne Road estate was built in the early 1950s as a joint venture between Rolls Royce and Barrow upon Soar Rural District Council, to provide urgently needed houses in the village. Sadly Frank died in 2005 after celebrating 68 years of a happy marriage. At her party, which was a very happy and memorable occasion, May received many gifts and cards from four generations of her family, friends and village organisations.

May had been a founder member of the

Unfortunately May suffered a serious fall in her home and had to be taken into Coalville Hospital for treatment and afterwards transferred to an elderly people’s home in Loughborough.

The party catering arrangements were provided by Sue and Geoff Wainwright who were thanked by May’s daughter Angela for providing a splendid and varied table selection which was enjoyed by all the family and friends.

Pic: Sheila Ayres with May Mountsorrel Townswomen’s Guild and had been made life President of the Guild. Maureen Marshall, on behalf of the Guild, presented May with a ‘Life Book’ containing photographs of May and the guild members over many years.

Very few parishioners live to be 100 years of age and Cllr Fred Newitt, on behalf of Mountsorrel Parish Council, presented May with a specially engraved ornamental clock to commemorate her birthday.

May and Frank had been very active in many village organisations and in 1992 they had been awarded the Mountsorrel Parish Council Certificate of Commendation, the village’s highest award. Up until a few weeks before her birthday, May was still living an independent life in her own home with the help of Sheila Ayres and other neighbours.

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 4

Driver jailed A CARELESS driver who killed a Mountsorrel motorcyclist has been jailed.

Carl Sims failed to see Clifford Sheffield’s approaching Harley Davidson at a junction and turned straight into his path.

Mr Sheffield (55) a father of two, was knocked off his bike and suffered multiple injuries.

Sims (24) pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving at the junction of Wakerley Road and Ethel Road, in North Evington, Leicester. He was jailed for 16 months.

It was the second time Sims, of Kestrel Lane, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, had driven carelessly, causing a death.

NHW news Eco & crime report

Crime Report : Mountsorrel, Feb 1 – Apr 30 Burglary dwelling 5, burglary non-dwelling 4, damage to motor vehicle 4, theft of motor vehicle 2, criminal damage 8, theft 8.

It’s pleasing to see that the summer appears to be arriving but this will no doubt lead to an increase in seasonal crime and antisocial behaviour. May I remind everyone to remain vigilant and promote the reporting of any incidents to the Police by residents of the village.

Most notably there has been an increase in reports of vehicles collecting (stealing!) scrap metal. Can any sightings of any vehicles appearing to be looking for scrap please be reported to me directly or the Police via the telephone.

Look out for dates of beat surgeries to be held at the new office at the Methodist Church. Dates are published on the Leicestershire Constabulary website and on posters dotted around the village. Feel free to pop in and see me any time.

April saw an unfortunate increase in reports of house burglaries although these appear to have been isolated to one evening and presumably the same offender. Extra patrols, designed to disrupt burglary offences have been sent to the village in recent weeks.

Good news: PCSO Brian Geeson is back with us after a period off work so will be available to stop and speak to you, any time you see him patrolling in the village.

PC Paul Bird Tel: 222 2222 Voicemail 1326 paul.bird@leicestersh PC Paul Bird 1326 ire.pnn.police.uk

home A NEW home built in Mountsorrel is one of the most environmentally friendly in the country.

The house on Market Place, on the old library site, has zero carbon emissions and has the highest rating, a code six, under the Code for Sustainable Homes rating system.

The house, commissioned by Will Antill and built by Baggaley & Jenkins, Clegg Developments and architects Stephen George & Partners, has photovoltaic cells to generate electricity, solar panels for heating water, a ground heat pump, a heat recovering ventilation system, rainwater harvesting facilities,

Kids’ free fun

low water usage toilets and bath, bird and bat boxes, energy saving lighting, triple glazing and a roof garden.

The two bedroom home has been designed to blend in with the five other traditional style houses that have been built on the site.

A PROGRAMME of free activities for young people is available at the Soar Valley Leisure Centre this summer.

Organised by Mountsorrel Parish Council’s Youth Development Group, activities include indoor football, extreme fitness, dance, roller skating, badminton and workout classes.

Details of the programme, aimed at 13-19 year olds, are available from the Leisure Centre or the library. The programme runs from July 26 to August 27.

The Youth Development Group are also holding their annual family Fun Day on the Halstead Road playing field, on Saturday August 14 from 12noon to 4pm.

Cricket coach award A CRICKET coach from Mountsorrel has been presented with an award.

Barrie Wakeling will receive a Sky Sports Coach Award for Outstanding Coaching Achievements at the first one day international game at Trent Bridge in July.

Barrie began his cricketing career playing for Mountsorrel Castle Cricket Club. He now lives in Loughborough and has been involved with Loughborough Town CC as a player, coach and committee member for the past 22 years. He is now Chairman of the club.

A qualified coach, he has seen some of his players go on to play for the county and the country.

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 5

Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on March 8.

PC Paul Bird reported that crime had

reduced significantly in the village in February. He thanked the Parish Council for their contribution towards a beat office in Mount-

Pilbeam Opticians marks 21 years IN MARCH 1989, Jonathan Pilbeam established Pilbeam Opticians on Leicester Road, Mountsorrel.

Twenty one years later, and with over ten thousand patients registered with the practice, Jonathan wanted to mark the milestone and to publicly thank the local community for their support.

He said: “I set up the Practice dedicated to the very best in eye care. I was determined that just because we were located in a village rather than a town, the facilities, equipment and service levels would not be compromised”.

In 1989, Jonathan started the practice with just himself and two receptionists. Now the total staff numbers 13 with six optometrists, three dispensing opticians and four optical assistants. Pilbeam Opticians was also one of the first practices in the country to offer the Optomap Retinal Scan as part of a routine eye examination.

Recently, Jonathan invited back his very first

patient, Tricia Tomkins from Mountsorrel, who still attends Pilbeam Opticians, to cut and share a celebration cake to mark the event. Trisha said: “The team at Pilbeam Opticians always give friendly professional service – and it’s great that they are so local”.

Jonathan added: “ Serving the local community in this way has been wonderfully satisfying. We regularly see three or four generations of the same family and many of our regular patients have become friends. We are certainly not going to rest on our laurels. We are constantly looking for ways to improve our service and are currently implementing a new computer system to eventually run a paperless practice. Despite all these advances though, the most rewarding aspect of running Pilbeam Opticians is still looking after the health of our patients eyes and ensuring that they leave us better equipped to succeed in school, work and life.”

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 6

sorrel, located in the Methodist church on Church Hill Road.

Borough Cllr John Capleton reported that 10.5 tonnes of rubbish was removed during the Partnership Action week in March and that the event had been well supported.

It was reported that the Youth Development Group would remain a working party of the Parish Council. Letters would be sent out to companies in the village asking for a donation towards this year’s events. Letters will also be sent to clubs in the village asking them to attend meetings with a young person.

The Council agreed to mark the occasion of a parishioner’s 100th birthday by presenting her with a gift to the value of up to £100.

A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on April 12.

Cllr Tom Duffin reported on problems with Charnwood’s road sweeping and litter picking which had now been done to a satisfactory standard.

The Council agreed that a planning application for 330 dwellings on Halstead Road should be placed on the agenda of every full council meeting until the application has been determined, and that a meeting be arranged for councillors to look at the plans.

The Parish Council’s advisor Mr Will Antill reported that a meeting on April 14, attended by several organisations, would review the

plans for the new Memorial Hall and the level of support.

The Council agreed that Mr Antill arrange meetings with representatives from the school, Primary Care Trust, County Council Highways and Lafarge and to assist with the preparation of a response to the Halstead Road development proposal.

It was reported that the Youth Development Group was progressing plans for a programme of summer activities at the Soar Valley Leisure Centre and a fun day in August at the Halstead Road playing fields.

A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on May 10.

During public participation a parishioner commented on the recent loss of Cllr Harold Newman, saying he would like to pay his respects and that Harold had a total commitment to this community Around 15 members of the public attended the meeting to highlight their concerns about the proposal to build 330 homes on Halstead Road by the developers Jelson. They spoke about the impact the development would have on schools, medical facilities, traffic and wildlife.

Chairman Brian Allard said the Council had asked Charnwood for a public exhibition in Mountsorrel of the plans.

Mr Will Antill said that the level of objection to the plans was significant and that a common theme was that Mountsorrel had grown significantly in the last 30 years without the necessary improvements to local infrastructure.

He reported on his meetings with local service providers : the local doctor’s surgery was full and Mountsorrel school’s headteacher said a large number of additional pupils would not be a positive move and that the development would be “catastrophic” for the village.

Although section 106 developer contributions would pay for infrastructure improvements, these would not necessarily be appropriate : for instance the Health Authority say they would improve the next nearest health facility, which would be in Quorn, if extending services in Mountsorrel was not feasible.

The planning application is expected to be considered by Charnwood in mid June. It was agreed that the Council object to the plans and that Mr Antill prepare a draft document objecting to the plans and that this be considered by the Parish Council at a meeting on May 24.

It was reported to PC Paul Bird that a white boxer dog was often loose in the village, fouling the parks and attacking other dogs. He was also told about fires being set on the Memorial playing fields.

PC Bird reported that a traffic survey on Halstead Road had indicated an average speed of 37 mph.

It was reported that the Youth Development Group had received £1350 in donations.

Charnwood Borough Council have reported that they have received payment of £67,747 of section 106 developer contributions for play facilities/adult recreation in the village.

Tuck for troops BUDGENS SUPERMARKET in Mountsorrel have been helping to provide tuck boxes for British troops.

Working with the Rothley branch of the Royal British Legion, the store have been filling tuck boxes with items such as biscuits, peanuts, toothpaste, chewing gum, chocolate drinks and soup.

Customers are then invited to buy either a £5 or £10 box with their shopping, which is then sent out to troops serving in Afghanistan.

Vanessa Gregory from Budgens said: “In total we have sent out 206 boxes via Norman Pratt at the Royal British Legion. The generosity of our customers has been outstanding!”

Pic: Alison Parish & Rebecca James packing up tuck boxes in the Budgens’ warehouse

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 7

Planning P/10/1035/2: 10 Kingfisher Rd – erection of garage to front of dwelling P/10/0910/2: Land rear of 73 Cross Lane – erection of detached bungalow P/10/0842/2: 21 Kenilworth Close – erection of single storey extensions to front and rear of dwelling P/10/0849/2: Plot 12, The Quay, Waterside Drive – erection of garage in revised position P/10/0821/2: Poplars Grange, 65 Crown Lane – conversion of garage to habitable room, installation of 2 No. rooflights and erection of outbuilding P/10/0827/2: Land adj Freeway Farm, 260 Loughborough Road – retention of and extension to use of agricultural land for car boot sales with associated parking P/10/0779/2: Flats 15-35 Market Place – replacement of external doors to flats 1535 P/10/0924/2: 2 Swallow Close – erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling P/10/0532/2: 6 Beaumaris Rd – erection of two-storey extension to side and rear of dwelling P/10/0501/2: Land at Halstead Rd – site for residential development with associated access (up to 330 dwellings)

Junior football finalists MOUNTSORREL JUNIORS Football Club’s U14s’s side reached the final of a Five Nations tournament.

Their road to the final of the competition, the Lions Club International Five Nations Youth Football Tournament, began last year with a 6-1 win over Deeping Rangers at Market Deeping.

They won a further three matches to reach the semi-final at Leeds United’s training

ground, winning 4-0.

The national final in May was against Corinthian FC from Kent and played at Rushden and Diamonds ground. Mountsorrel lost 7-1.

Manager Andy Neal said: “They put on a gallant display against a team that has not only some of the best training facilities in Kent but is one of the most successful clubs in the area. Reaching the final was a great honour for the village and local youth football.”

The Mountsorrel squad play out of the Halstead Road playing fields with coach/manager Andy assisted by Gavin Ottowell and John Tambini.

The full Mountsorrel team are: Connor Neal, Jordan Riley, Charles Clarkson, Ashley Hopewell, Daniel Allsop, Quentin Casey, Mitchell Wright, Sam Moore, Brendan Sullivan, Jacob Goddard, Daniel Reid, Jamie Ottowell, James Tambini, Jacob Adams, Nathan Pepper The September issue of the

MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Aug 27.

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Annual meeting MOUNTSORREL PARISH Council held its Annual Meeting in the Memorial Hall on March 18.

The meeting was attended by around 25 members of the public, and chaired by Cllr Brian Allard, Chairman of Mountsorrel Parish Council. Borough and County Councillors as well as representatives from the Police, NHW, County Council and Lafarge presented reports and answered questions from the floor.

Cllr Allard reported that the Parish Council’s five year and £250,000 programme of upgrading and improving the play equipment on Mountsorrel’s playing fields had concluded with the new equipment installed on Hallstead Road this year.

Borough Cllr John Capleton reported that the Castle Hill tenants association had been running for three years and was a success, and that efforts were being made to start a similar association for the area near the Methodist Church.

Cllr Richard Shephard reported that the Borough Council had kept the Council Tax increase to 2 per cent, partly as a result of efficiency savings.

A resident praised the Borough Council for cleaning up Betty Henser’s Lane but reported that as soon as it was tidied, the litter reappeared, some of it blowing in from the Budgens car park.

Mr A Warrington from County Council Highways reported that the County intend to resurface Slash Lane and to introduce traffic calming measures on Leicester Road, Mountsorrel.

Police Inspector Duncan Southall, Charnwood LPU Commander said that test purchases had been conducted at Bargain Booze on Rothley Rood and there had been no fails.

Adults are buying the alcohol and supplying it to under-age people, he said.

He reported that crime was down 10 per cent compared to last year. Burglary dwelling had increased. Antisocial behaviour had increased by 17 per cent. PC Paul Bird said he had worked hard to encourage the reporting of ASB and this may explain the increase. PC Bird said the current Police priorities were ASB, drugs, inconsiderate parking and speeding vehicles at school times. There are 37 active NHW schemes in Mountsorrel.

Residents commented on the number of vehicles parking on pavements and blocking the footway, parking on cycleways and speeding traffic.

The Lafarge representative said that the recession had reduced their output by 20 per cent but that no staff had been laid off. He said that Lafarge plan to repair the 1860 bridge this summer.

It was reported that Mountsorrel’s Relief in Need charity had made 140 grants the previous year totalling £86,769. The Mountsorrel Educational Fund had made grants totalling £136,161. The Church of England Fund had made a grant of £9849 to St Peters Parochial Church Council and £58,617 to Christ Church PCC for the Bower Room extension.

Budgens’ new loaf A NEW loaf of bread has been developed by the Master Baker at Budgens Mountsorrel.

Named after the village where it has been created the loaf uses a unique blend of organic and spelt white flour from Claybrooke Mill in Leicestershire and is combined with Swithland spring water.

The dough created is fermented overnight to produce a loaf with a delicious flavour and a perfect crust, say Budgens.

Guy Coombs, General Manager at Farmer Fear’s Budgens and Master Baker is extremely excited about his new loaf. He said: “We have developed a loaf of excep-

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 9

tional quality by sourcing the main ingredients locally from Leicestershire. The combination of organic and spelt flours is thought to make the bread easier to digest than the standard white sliced loaf. But most importantly the loaf is delicious. Soft inside, packed with flavour and with a proper crust.

“The loaf is priced competitively for the size and quality of the product, at £1.99, for either bloomer or farmhouse”. All of the Farmer Fear’s range of products at Budgens aim to provide “exceptional quality at the right price” and include locally produced meats, pies and cider.

Further information can be found at www.farmerfear.co.uk.

The loaf is now available to boy in Farmer Fear’s Budgens Mountsorrel, on Granite Way.

New track laid RAILWAY TRACK has started to be relaid on the Mountsorrel railway as a local community project run by volunteers makes progress at bringing the railway back to Mountsorrel.

Steve Cramp, Volunteer Project Leader with the Mountsorrel Railway Project, provides an update below: As regular readers of The Mountsorrel Post will already know, community volunteers have been hard at work over the last two and a half years working to restore the "Mountsorrel Railway", which was built in 1896 by Earl Lanesborough of Swithland Hall, to serve the granite quarries around the Mountsorrel.

In May 2010 the dream was finally realised as track returned to the railway for the first time in over 50 years! Project volunteers aided by volunteers from the Great Central Railway and the GCR's full time track maintenance staff, embarked on a seven day work week which saw the expensive junction point installed into the GCR tracks at Swithland Sidings. This point gives the Mountsorrel Railway a direct connection to the GCR allowing trains to run from one railway to the other.

The team then went on to lay another 250 feet of track from the new point and onto the trackbed of the Mountsorrel Railway itself. This is an important milestone for the project and represents the culmination of many 10,000's of

Visit gardens in the Elmfield/Oakfield Avenue, Fielding Road area of Birstall Birstall Methodist Church’s

volunteer hours. This is not the end though, but only the beginning of the next chapter! We need to secure another mile and a quarter of track to bring the railway back to Mountsorrel.

The rail industry is coming under increasing budgetary constraints and it is becoming difficult for preservation groups like ours to obtain second-hand rail at an affordable price. We really have to act quickly whilst track is still within our reach. To do this we need to raise a further £30,000 as soon as possible. We are pleased to say that the David Clarke Railway

Trust has kicked off our track appeal with a kind donation of £5000. Some readers will remember David who was a familiar face around the village. His family once owned the card box box factor which used to be on Linkfield Road and David himself set up the Gray Paul Ferrari dealership at Loughborough. We were thrilled that the trust set up in his name have supported the project so generously.

The project has also secured another new sponsor. LanGuard VM, a nationwide vegetation management and weed control business with a

GARDEN TRAIL Saturday and Sunday 12th and 13th June 2010 2.00pm – 5.30pm Adults £3.00 in advance £3.50 on the day Accompanied children free

Garden Tombola, Plant Stall, Children’s Treasure Hunt Refreshments, Ices, Raffle In aid of the Alzheimer’s Society and Church Funds Sponsored by Birstall Garden Centre Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 10

head office in Leicestershire, has very kindly offered to undertake a program of weed control along the Mountsorrel Railway trackbed.

We were concerned that the onset of spring would bring with it a whole raft of unwanted weeds creeping through our mile long newly ballasted trackbed. As with any railway, it's imperative that the ballast is kept clear of weed growth to ensure that it drains well and the formation of the railway is protected. The cost for controlling the weeds over a mile of track bed is substantial and a significant overhead for a community volunteer project like ours.

We were thrilled when LanGuard VM offered to keep the weeds at bay for us at no cost to the project and we really can't thank them enough.

LanGuard VM Contracts Director Tony Marlow told us: "We had heard about the Mount-

Art & craft play AN AWARD winning creative play session at Mountsorrel’s Scout Hut has grown to meet increasing demand.

sorrel Railway project and its hopes of recreating part of our local history for today's generations to learn from and enjoy, but it was only when we saw for ourselves the phenomenal work that their group of community volunteers have done over the past two and a half years, we were only too happy to be able to support their endeavours and to offer our services."

We still have some way to go to reach our target. If you would like to donate please send your cheque made payable to "RVP Ltd" and with "Mountsorrel Railway" written on the back to 112 Balmoral Road, Mountsorrel, Loughborough, LE12 7EW. If you are a UK tax payer please down load a gift aid form from our website www.mountsorrelrailway.org.uk fill it out and send with your donation. As the project is a registered charity, the tax office will boost your donation still further.

Other notable achievements on the project over the last quarter are Lesley Humphries junior ecology sessions, which allow children and their parents to learn about and experience the ecology around the railway. At the last event children learnt how to find animal tracks and to identify what type of animals made them. We make no charge for taking part and the popularity of the events grows with each session. Last time we had over 40 children and parents visit the railway. The sessions run approximately every six weeks, so check our website for details of the next event.

Children from Mountsorrel primary school have also visited the trackbed to plant trees

along the sides of the formation.

Volunteers have also completed the restoration of the third and final replica Mountsorrel Granite Company wagon. The wagons can be seen running regularly on the GCR as part of historical recreations. The educational benefits of the wagons will really come into their own as track laying extends along the branch line.

As if all this wasn't enough, volunteers have also started work on repointing the west side of the Wood Lane bridge. By the time you read this the work should be complete and was made possible by a private donation.

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 11

The Creation Station’s hand-on art and craft exploration sessions give pre-school children from as young as a year old the chance to safely experiment with a wide range of materials, tools and ideas. Rachel Sykes is leading the weekly term-time programme for youngsters and their parents/carers at Mountsorrel Scout Hut and has now had to start a second session at 11am after her 9.40am class reached full capacity.

Rachel said: “I am really excited about running two sessions. Our aim is to inspire children’s imaginations through our specially designed art and craft activities and products. As well as being terrific fun for both child and adult the sessions encourage positive parenting skills through practical creative play. Creating their own piece of art each week also helps develop a child’s thinking and creative skills.”

Everyone buying a trial session will get a second session for free.

Rachel will be running holiday sessions in Mountsorrel for children aged up to 11.

For further information and to request a trial session contact Rachel on 0845 051 0845 or email: rachel@thecreationstation.co.uk. Visit www.thecreationstation.co.uk

Four stone weight loss

Tougher sentences

A MOUNTSORREL man has lost four stone attending a local Weightcare class.

James Middleton (38) weighed 17stone 7lbs. He says: “I would drink most nights and eat for England all day.

Most mornings when I got out of bed I would have to walk on tip toe, it was just so painful to walk on flat feet.

At work my day to day routine was becoming such an effort. It would normally take me 15 minutes to get to work by bike, but now I was getting called in about timekeeping.

“I had to get up earlier and leave earlier just so I could puff and pant my way to work and get there on time with my feet and legs killing me. In four years I had put on five stone.

“On my way back from work I saw a sign for Weightcare – should I go and have a look? What if someone saw me go in. Thank God I did walk through that door.”

James achieved his target of losing four stone. He said: “I no longer drink, which for me, is a huge lifestyle change. I get to work in 10 minutes and go to the gym twice a week. I stick to a healthy diet. I was going to buy myself a new wardrobe

A MOUNTSORREL woman whose daughter was killed in a high speed car crash is campaigning for tougher sentences for careless drivers.

Julie Holwell’s daughter Becki (20) died when the car she was travelling in as a passenger crashed on the A6 between Loughborough and Quorn. The car was being driven over the speed limit by Becki’s boy friend Ben Crossley.

Crossley admitted causing death by careless driving and was sentenced in June 2009. He will serve one year in prison and one year out on licence.

Mrs Holwell said: “At the moment the sentences given out are far too lenient. He will be out of prison before the second anniversary of Becki’s death and this is outrageous. Our family has a life sentence and he walks free. I feel that if the courts were allowed to give tougher sentences they would but at the moment they are controlled by government guidelines – these guidelines need strongly looking at, until things change we will continue to have too many lenient sentences.”

Mrs Holwell campaigned for the installation of a speed camera on the section of the A6 where her daughter died and organised a 1900 name petition. In March the County Council said that speeding on the road was not serious enough to justify it. They said the measures they introduced in 2008, dropping the speed limit from 60 to 50 mph, relining the roads and laying anti-skid surfacing had been effective. Accidents on the road have dropped from 3.4 a year in 2008 to 1.9

when I got to my target, but the weight came off so quickly I had to buy new clothes as I went along. 4 stones for me is a life-changing amount of weight to lose.”

Weightcare 01530 813361 www.weight-care.co.uk

New vehicle PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN

OUR PICTURE shows driver Rod Newitt with the new Age Concern Day Centre ambulance.

Provision of the new vehicle was supported by the Mayor of Charnwood’s appeal, 3M and various fundraising activities.

One of the ambulances first uses was taking the Mountsorrel Housebound Club on an outing to Ulverscroft Manor.

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 12

Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words.

17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Mountsorrel library.

Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word.

You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.

AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consultancy. Plans drawn and submitted. Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395/07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk EARN £400-£600 per month part-time delivering and collecting catalogues 18+ Call 0116 2986894 FRENCH/SPANISH speakers wanted. Primary school and nurseries need you to teach children in clubs after-school or during school day, flexible hours, term time only. Training and course material provided. Competitive rates of pay. Please call: 0116 2711 844 Email:patterson66@sky.com

YOUR SAY...

The Mountsorrel 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 Mountsorrel Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH, or handed in at Mountsorrel library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Wheelie Wicked Wheelie bins aren’t user friendly, not if you’re just five foot two Let me tell you what happened to me, for the same thing could happen to you.

I had gathered the rubbish together and set it aside, as you do Then went off to get myself ready and dispose of it on my way through Collecting the bag and my car keys, I set off to go into town As I opened the bin and chucked the stuff in, the keys cluttered all the way down.

I knew that I had to retrieve them but didn’t know where to begin They had settled themselves in the ashes, way down in the depths of the bin My sense of humour had vanished, some pretty strong language was used

Recycling message MOUNTSORREL BEAVERS have been learning more about the environment, recycling and minimising waste.

Since October 2009 Charnwood Borough Council have been working with six Beaver colonies organising an evening of games, competitions and information related to recycling and waste minimisation.

Sandy Taylor, Assistant County Commissioner for the Beavers in Leicestershire County said: “The sessions get the groups thinking about important issues in an interesting way and consider ways they can help reduce waste and recycle more. The evening sessions have been very well received by the groups who have surprised many people with their knowledge and the measures they take at home and school to do their bit.

“All the beavers have an amazing time, and it also goes towards their badge work.

It’s great to see so many little faces, learning Language that may have surprised you, but the neighbours were greatly amused I tried a long stick with a magnet but that only made mattes worse So I laid the bin down flat on the ground and crawled down inside it head first The neighbours were highly delighted their laughter was making them weak Then two of them came to assist me and hoisted me out by my feet Like a phoenix I rose from the ashes with bits sticking out of my hair – What a chance that was missed for a photograph, I’m so sorry you weren’t there A swift gin and tonic was called for and I needed to hose myself down Although I’d recovered the car keys, I abandoned the trip into town So you see life is very unequal and it doesn’t help much if you’re small, But whoever invented the wheelie bin must have been at least ten feet tall!

From Peggy Clarke

Friendship group

about something we all have control in and there is even a treat for them at the end of the session, with a bag of goodies for them to take home.”

News of the success of sessions has spread and increasing numbers of Beaver leaders are getting in touch with Charnwood Borough Council officers.

If any groups are interested in running similar sessions, please contact Victoria Brackenbury, Waste Education Officer on: 01509 634764 or email: victoria.brackenbury@charnwood.gov.uk Pic: Sandy Taylor with the members of the Mountsorrel Beaver Group

Girlguiding group A GIRLGUIDING group for girls aged 5-7 has opened in Mountsorrel on Mondays.

Rainbows are the youngest section of Girlguiding UK, the largest voluntary movement for girls and young women in the UK. Rainbows follow the Rainbow Roundabout programme which includes playing games, taking part in fun activities and gaining badges.

If you live in Mountsorrel and have a daughter who is currently 5 or 6 years old and you would like her to become a member please text this number for further information. 07941 304392

Home Carers Required

Are you a caring person?

Like varied work & job satisfaction?

Join our team of carers in the Mountsorrel, Cropston, Quorn, Sileby, Syston, Birstall & Wymeswold areas.

Flexible shifts, 10-40 hrs per week, & mornings, evenings and weekends available.

No experience required as all training will be provided.

Up to £7.25hr, plus travel expenses. Telephone essential. Ring Debbie between 8.30am & 4.30pm for more information on

BRANCH OUT this Springtime and cultivate new friendships.

Supper with Friends is a Leicestershire based social group for unattached, young-at-heart men and women over 50. It is a friendly group, and its emphasis is on friendship, value for money, and informality. It is not a dating or matchmaking club.

The group has enjoyed a variety of events, and members are enjoying making new friends in convivial surroundings.

If you would like to know more about Supper with Friends and enjoy delectable suppers and companionable events please contact Anne on 10509 416823 or email Kate at supperwithfriends@gmail.com

0116 2696247 (quoting reference BP) Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 13

Noticeboard all details printed free Rothley Bowling Club Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley (rear of library) A very warm welcome is extended to everyone to join us at our

Chummy Evenings which will be held from 5.30pm onwards on Wed June 23, Wed July 21, Wed Aug 11 Everyone welcome (old, young, male, female, novices or experienced) All equipment provided – just wear flat soled shoes Come and ‘have a go’ and see what bowling is all about at a very friendly club Further details from Club Secretary Mrs Carole Law 0116 2990178, email: the laws@ntlworld.com ••• Charnwood Active Together

Dance Classes Jazz Dance, Lindy Hop (jive) and Salsa Sessions aimed at beginners Each session costs £2.50 or £10 for 5 sessions Details: Matt 01509 632535 activetogether@charnwood.gov.uk www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/activetogether •••

Watermead Challenge 2010

A charity 5 mile run and 3 mile run or walk In aid of Richard Engelgardt Trust fund, St John Ambulance, local youth groups/clubs Challenge yourself, enjoy the local countryside views and fresh air Open to affiliated and non affiliated runners Measured route Get sponsorship for us or your own causes or simply enjoy the experience!

Wednesday July 14 at 7pm At Watermead Country Park, Syston, Leicester LE7 1PD (north entrance) Presented by The Rotary Club of the Wreake Valley Trust Fund Charity no.001119549 Entry details at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk •••

Thurcaston & Cropston Open Gardens Weekend Sat/Sun June 26/27 20 gardens open between 1-5pm Tickets £4 valid both days, available on the day from any open garden Accompanied children and wheelchair users free Plant swap in one of the gardens on Sunday Organised by Richard Hill School PTA richardhillpta@aol.com •••

Richard Hill School Thurcaston

Summer Fair Sat Jun 26, 1-4pm Luxury raffle, stalls, games, bouncy slide, refreshments •••

Rothley School Summer Fete June 12 12noon-4pm •••

A Summer Concert

by The Ratcliffe Chorale at Wanlip Parish Church on Saturday July 10 at 6.30pm Refreshments Tickets £5 Bring a Picnic Tea & Coffee available from 4pm ••• Swithland St Leonard’s CE Primary School PTA will hold their annual

Summer Fete on the school grounds in Swithland on Sunday July 4 from 12noon-3pm Stalls to include: BBQ, vegetarian food, refreshments, mystery wine, cakes, books, bouncy castle, tombola, football competition, nail painting, raffle and many more Fun for all the family ••• Health Action Leicester for Ethiopia

Antiques Fair and Bric-a-Brac Sale Bring your antiques to sell and buy the antiques on offer Valuations available for a nominal fee Raising funds for a vital new project to upgrade health centre facilities in rural Ethiopia Refreshments available throughout the day Sileby Community Centre, 41 High Street, Sileby LE12 7RX (car park access from King Street – follow signs to Sileby Station) Sunday June 13 from 12noon to 5pm Admission 50p To book a table, please call 01509 812885 •••

The Archaeology of Rothley Saturday July 31, 10am – 1pm Free admission The Old School Rooms, 3 School Street, Rothley, LE7 7RA From the stone age to Roman times A rare opportunity for visitors to view an exhibition of archaeological finds from Rothley’s rich and interesting past ••• CLASH – Community Leicester Arthritis Self Help

Volunteer urgently wanted to help with Group Administration If you have available time and experience (including IT) to support the running of this local self help group, please contact Chris Thomas on 07954584402 or email 2006clash@gmail.com •••

CLASH Coffee Morning Saturday August 28, 10am to 12noon

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 14

At the Methodist Coffee Shop, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Information on arthritis, tombola Fairtrade coffee, cakes, books & nice things to buy All Proceeds to CLASH ••• Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

Film Presentations ‘Coco Before Chanel’ Friday June 18 (105 mins) This remarkable story of a fashion icon has never previously been public knowledge. Hailing from the lower class in pre-First World War France, Gabrielle Chanel was revolutionary in her beliefs that women should be free to dress as they wished. Starting as a back street seamstress and part-time singer, she was quite unconventional. Thanks to her liaison with Baron Balson, she developed her flair for hat design. She even bullied her lover, an English businessman, into setting her up in a small fashion design business. This is an unbelievable true story of rags to riches, having been nominated for a 2010 Oscar for Costume Design.

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing this film at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £4, concessions £3.50. Price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw. Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office 0116 2367626 or at the door

The next film will be shown on Friday September 10 •••

Birstall Pool Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Selected Free Swim Sessions For U16s and over 60s Card required Please contact janehill@longslade.leics.sch.uk or go to www.longslade.leics.sch.uk for the current timetable ••• Charnwood Orchestra

Riverside may be the team for you We aim to be competing at the top end of our Division, so if you fancy the challenge come and join our friendly bunch of lads We train at Wreake Valley College, Syston 67.30pm and most Saturdays, time to be confirmed All coaches are CRB checked and at least Level 1 qualified, if you are interested in playing your football at a friendly club please don’t hesitate to contact Chris Reed 07742009343 or email riversideunited1@btinternet.com or just come along •••

25 Choirs Concert in celebration of LOROS 25 years 25 Choirs will sing for 25 minutes each at Longslade Community College, Birstall Saturday June 26, 2.30-9pm Tickets: £2.50 Drop in at any time – stay as long as you like Refreshments available if you would like to make it a long stay Raffle 25p Please support this local charity Thanks to all the local shops who have donated raffle prizes •••

Diddi Dancers Dance classes for toddlers and parents Wednesdays 10-11am Mountsorrel Children’s Centre, Mountsorrel School July 21 - August 25

£1 per session to book your place contact Suzanne 0116 3055267 Charnwood Active Together •••

Free Well Man’s Clinic Mountsorrel Working Men’s Club Tuesday June 15, 3-6pm Physical Activity Advice Hygiene, Diet & Health Eating Advice Health Checks and Cholesterol Testing Smoking Cessation Advice For more information contact Active Together on 01509 632535 ••• The Mountsorrel

Annual Charities Fete 2010 June 12, 10am – 12noon on the Village Green Any charities wishing to take part and book a pitch should contact Deborah Stead (1st Mountsorrel Scouts Secretary) on 01509 550314 A pitch will cost £5 •••

Tea & Cakes St Leonard’s Church, Main Street, Swithland Sat & Sun, July 10 & 11 Sat & Sun, August 14 & 15 from 2-5pm Donations in aid of church funds •••

Continued on page 16

Summer Concert Bruckner : Symphony 9 Mozart : Symphony 40 Saturday June 26, 7.45pm Church of St James The Greater, London Road, Leicester Tickets £8 (Concess. £6) Children 16 and under £2 Rodgers_david@hotmail.com Box Office: 07718 153117 ••• Charnwood Arts

Big Knitting Group Exhibition Every Pocket Tells a Story Charnwood Museum Granby Street, Loughborough May 1 – June 27 60 bespoke ‘pockets’ from artists all over the country •••

A Day of Talents & Silent Auction St James the Great Parish Church, Birstall Saturday June 19 from 9am until 5pm Refreshments available Proceeds for three children’s charities Includes handbell ringing, organ music, piano trios and the 663 Ensemble ••• Riverside United under 12s 2010/11

Players Wanted We are looking for new players for next season Are you fed up of being on the bench or fancy a new challenge?

Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 15

Continued from page 15 Mothers’ Union

Summer Fayre Saturday August 7, 10am to 12noon St Leonard’s Church, Main Street, Swithland Tombola, cakes, nearly new, books, plants, raffle, sales table Admission £1 inc coffee and biscuits Proceeds to Mothers’ Union •••

Loughborough Farmers Market 2nd Wednesday of the month Devonshire Square, Loughborough Between 9am and 2.30pm Next markets June 9, July 14, Aug 11 Featuring a wide variety of local produce including a variety of meats both cured and rare breed, sausage, bacon; fruit pies and savoury pastries; a wide range of vegetables inc organic; plants & flowers; herbs, handmade natural soaps & body care products; honey & beeswax products; chutneys, pickles, jams and preserves; wholemeal flour & muesli; eggs & cheeses; bread, cakes. And fruit juices along with seasonal products, brought to you by knowledgeable and friendly traders.

For possible stall reservations or further information, please call our Markets & Fairs Team at Charnwood Borough Council on 01509 634624 or email: market.fairs@charnwood.gov.uk. Or log on to www.charnwood.gov.uk

••• The Soar Valley Leisure Centre

Free Activities for

13-19 yr olds July 26-August 27 Indoor football, dance, roller skating, badminton, workout classes Details from the Leisure Centre Organised by Mountsorrel Youth Development Group •••

Family Fun Day Halstead Road playing field Saturday August 14, 12-4pm Tug of war, hot dogs, climbing wall, the Bird Man, penalty shoot-out, splat the rat, bouncy castle, bucking bronco •••

The Alpha Course The Swan Inn, Mountsorrel The Swan Inn is hosting a 12 week Alpha course at 7pm on Tuesday evenings The basic Christianity, Alpha course investigates “What is the meaning of life?”

The course started on May 4 For more information contact Christine Butcher (Evangelist at Christ Church/St Peter’s, Mountsorrel) 0116 2376122 •••

Mountsorrel Youth Café The Green, Mountsorrel

Open Day Sat June 12, 10am-2pm Drop in and find out more about this project www.sycafe.org

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How you can contact us: Phone or Fax (0116) 267 4213 Hand in your items at Mountsorrel Library, Rothley Library or Birstall Library Write to us at The Mountsorrel Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk The Mountsorrel Post is an independent newspaper

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Mountsorrel Post JUNE 2010 (31), page 16