Mountsorrel Post (36) Sept 2011

MOUNTSORREL POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

SEPTEMBER 2011

www.birstallpost.co.uk Pic: Bellydancers (l-r) Roxanne Dinsdale, Anna Wigmore, Clare Carr, Wendy Calland & Shannon Gray

Club’s funday

No. 36

Café concerns raised THE POLICE and some residents of The Green have expressed concerns about antisocial behaviour increasing following the opening of the Mountsorrel Youth Café.

Police Inspector Duncan Southall, Charnwood Local Policy Unit Commander, told the Mountsorrel Post: “When I was asked about the issue of anti-social

A FUNDAY at Mountsorrel Working Men’s club has raised £1400 for LOROS. Continued on page 3

behaviour [ASB] on The Green we compared data from last year to this and it did show an increase in that specific area which coincided with the opening of the youth café. We looked at the statistical evidence and there is a causal link.”

Continued on page 2

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MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

Continued from page 1 Inspector Southall voiced his concerns at a public meeting held on June 29, which was organised by the trustees of the youth café. The meeting aimed to explain the purpose of the café and the reasons for the recent planning application that requested an extension of opening hours. It was attended by local residents, councillors, Head of Communities and Partnership at Charnwood Tom Kiernan and other interested parties.

A resident of The Green expressed their concerns about ASB at the meeting, saying that the problem was particularly bad around closing time at 8.30pm, on

Thursdays and Fridays. Incidents include shouting, screaming, climbing over the bus shelter, throwing stones, kicking footballs, punching the glass panels on the bus shelter and on one occasion, breaking it, trespass and verbal abuse.

Concerns were also expressed that the café had A3 permission for running a catering establishment, not permission to deliver youth services.

Speaking at the meeting, residents and councillors expressed their support for the youth café and the work it is doing. It was reported that the café’s immediate neighbours have never made any complaints to the café, the police or

Patron: Nicky Morgan MP

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When your child has arthritis When a young person has arthritis (facilitator- Sonal Godhania)

Wednesday 14th December: Christmas Meal Wednesday 11th January:

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Wednesday 14th March:

Diet and arthritis (facilitator- Sonal Godhania)

Wednesday 11th April:

Pain and arthritis Drugs and arthritis (facilitatorSonal Godhania)

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Wednesday 8th August:

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the planning department.

Mountsorrel County Councillor and County Council Cabinet member Peter Osborne said: “Members of the community have got together to try to provide a service specifically for the young people of Mountsorrel – that has to be applauded and supported. There is no magi wand and members of the community are themselves on a learning curve.

“Other residents of The Green have cautiously welcomed the initiative and have said ASB has varied, ebb and flow, in all parts of the village including The Green.”

Cllr Osborne has suggested that the Police’s objections are based on perceptions and not on facts and speaking at a Parish Council meeting on July 11 said: “The County Council would be very concerned if the integrity of the café was harmed by prejudice and not by facts and its outrageous to say that kids should be shunted away somewhere out of sight. I will be meeting with the Chief Constable about this.”

Following the meeting the planning application for the café was amended.

The request for later opening, Sunday opening and Bank Holiday opening has been withdrawn. The amended application requests permission to operate as a mixed A3 (café) and Sui Generis (Youth work), opening times 8am to 8.30pm weekdays and 9am-6pm on Saturdays.

Planning permission for the café was granted in September 2009. A condition was that the permission would expire after 18 months so the planning authority could consider the impact of the café on the neighbourhood.

Following the public meeting on June 29, Tom Kiernan, Head of Communities and Partnerships at Charnwood Borough Council has met with Inspector Southall to discuss his concerns and has produced an Action Plan.

He said: “I liaise with the Police, residents, the planning department and the Youth Service and have prepared an Action Plan that I will be presenting to the café’s trustees soon.

“My principal concern is the views of local residents and I hope the Action Plan will go some way to alleviate their concerns.”

The main points of the Action Plan are: • to have a County Council Youth Worker in attendance at one session a week • to have a Community Safety Officer attend one session a week • to investigate provision of CCTV near the café • the Police have agreed to more regular patrols of The Green and to visit the café frequently to become known to the users.

Police Inspector Southall had lodged a formal objection to the café’s original planning application for extended opening hours but told the Mountsorrel Post that his decision on the amended application was subject to an ongoing consultation with partner agencies and residents and he would make his views to the planning authority known when that was complete.

Mountsorrel Youth Café is a registered charity and opened on January 24.

Funding to date has come from grants from the Borough and County Councils, the Mountsorrel Relief in Need Fund, the Grace Charitable Trust and Lafarge aggregates, as well as small donations and fundraising events. It employs one youth

worker.

The trustees say that to support the running of the café they would like to hire out the building to other community groups outside the café’s hours, which is why they originally requested extended opening hours.

In a published response to objections to their planning application, the trustees state: “We strongly deny a link between a spate of ASB in April and the café. We have closed on one occasion due to poor behaviour on the premises as we promised neighbours we would.

Most of the young people who frequent the café are well aware that they should not annoy the neighbours and we do our best to monitor their behaviour on leaving and take appropriate action when necessary.

“We are not responsible for the behaviour of young people in Mountsorrel, although over time we hope to make a positive impact. Give us time and we will make a difference.

“We aim to divert young people from antisocial behaviour through positive activities and role-modelling, but we are not responsible for eradicating the ASB which has been present on The Green and in Mountsorrel for a very long time.”

The planning application, P/11/0771/2, is yet to be determined.

Details are available on Charnwood’s website.

New wheelie ALL CHARNWOOD residents will receive a new green wheelie bin over a six week period starting on September 5.

The green recycling bin replaces purple sacks and green boxes for recycling all paper, card, cartons, plastics, metal and glass. There will also be a battery recycling bag delivered to boost the number of used batteries for recycling.

The green bin can be used immediately and slots in with the usual refuse and recycling waste collection service. Black bin collections will not be affected.

Once the green recycling bin is delivered, the green box and purple sacks will cease to be used.

Service award CHARNWOOD BOROUGH Council has been awarded Customer Service Excellence (CSE) by the Home Office following a rigorous assessment by Government inspectors.

Customer Service Excellence is the national standard which tested the Council on five key areas of customer service including how Charnwood involves the customer, the council’s customer standards, and how the council can improve.

MOUNTSORREL POST

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SEP 2011

Activity day for young AN ACTIVITIES day for young people was again held this August on the Halstead Road playing field.

As well as a range of fairground style rides and games there were informative displays, a climbing wall, refreshments and a display of dancing by the Jessica Michelle School of Dance.

The event was organised by the Mountsorrel Youth Development Group, a working party of the Parish Council, as part of a programme of events that included sporting activities for young people at the Soar Valley Leisure Centre.

Pics: Kiain Alexander (7) on the climbing wall, Rachel Hilliam (left) and Helen Wood from Mountsorrel Scouts, Gladiator jousting are Max Cessford (6) and his mum Wendy & below, dancers from the Jessica Michelle Scholl of Dance

The December issue of the

Talented swimmer’s grant A TALENTED swimmer from Mountsorrel has received a grant from Charnwood Borough Council. of grants to not only help local clubs but to target talented individuals develop their skills.

“One of this Council’s priorities is to improve the health and wellbeing of our residents and that’s what these grants are all about.”

To find out more about the grants programme, contact Hayley Peel, Senior Sports Development Officer, on 01509 634592 or email Hayley.peel@charnwood.gov.uk

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Jack Melia (12) has been awarded a £250 ‘talent grant’. Jack, a City of Leicester swimmer, finished in the top 10 of the Midlands Championships, narrowly missing out on qualifying for the national championships.

“I was really pleased to be awarded the money because I know how expensive swimming is as a sport” said Jack.

“The grant means a lot to me because it means I can keep up my training and get better. One day I hope to compete in the Olympics.”

Cropston Cricket Club was awarded an £800 facilities grant for wicket covers.

Councillor David Snartt, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “We are thrilled to be able to award these types

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Club continued from page 1 There were stalls in the car park, a vintage fire engine and displays in the club, including belly dancing.

Steward Pete Kerrigan said: “What another brilliant day! A massive thank you to all the people who gave their time to put together and run the stalls and thank you for spending your money.”

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MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

Tesco plan for pub refused TESCO’S PLANS to open a store in Mountsorrel have been stalled after Charnwood rejected one of their planning applications.

Tesco want to convert the empty Stag and Pheasant pub on Leicester Road into a Tesco Express. Planning permission is not required to convert pubs into shops, but Tesco need permission for alterations to the frontage, for signs and for installation of an automatic telling machine (ATM).

In August, Charnwood Borough Council rejected Tesco’s application to install an ATM. The Council stated that the proposal could: “…result in vehicle parking taking place in the public highway in the immediate vicinity of the site, in proximity to a road junction and a bus stop which could lead to additional dangers to road users and would not be in the interests of highway safety.”

The council received eight individual letters from residents objecting to plans, a 454 name petition and a batch of 27 pro-forma letters.

Mountsorrel Parish Council and the County Highways Authority objected on highway safety grounds.

When making its decision, Charnwood stated that the appearance of the ATM is “inoffensive and is not out of keeping with the overall appearance of the building, which is not listed, and could be said to at least preserve the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.” Charnwood’s refusal was solely on highway safety grounds.

Tesco has four other planning applications for the site. Charnwood’s planning department told the Mountsorrel Post that the council was still waiting for clarification on some issues relating

Pic: the old Stag & Pheasant

to these applications and until these were received from the applicant, no decision on them could be made.

At the time of going to press, Tesco had not lodged an appeal against the refusal of the ATM. The planning application is P/11/0934/2. Details of the council’s decision can be viewed on Charnwood’s website.

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Cllr John Capleton reported that a Council was held on June 13. government grant has been secured for Borough Councillor John Capleton improvements to PRC council homes reported on the ward walk which had and that wall cladding and insulation for taken place in Mountsorrel.

It was agreed to spend £149 printing 83 houses is planned, leaving 200 plus leaflets promoting the Mountsorrel Youth unclad which it is hoped can be done next year.

Development Group’s summer activities.

Cllr Peter Osborne reported on a The water tank at the cemetery is to meeting he had attended about the be cleaned out.

Mountsorrel Youth Café. He said the The Council will obtain quotes for Police were objecting to plans to extend railings to match the existing ones the café’s opening hours because of around the Peace Garden and for four antisocial behaviour (ASB) in the area feet standard railing. around The Green, but did not present It was agreed to arrange the removal any evidence that ASB was associated of two ash trees overhanging the rear of Castle Hill flats, following a recommenda- with the café. He said he and the County Council supported the café, that ASB was tion from the tree warden. from older children who did not use the It was agreed to write to the person café and that he would meet with the who was mowing the grass on the comChief Constable of Leicestershire Police mon land on Castle Hill, driving over it Simon Cole to discuss the issue. and parking on it, requesting they stop Comment was made that if the café as it is removing the natural state of the closed the ASB problems on The Green land. The Parish Council has the powers would remain as the area was one to enforce parking restrictions there. where young people gathered and that It was agreed that Christmas lights those objecting to the café were very will this year only be installed on The nimbyish.

Green, the existing lights will be used Cllr Mick Lemon reported on the and no new Christmas lights will be activities of the Mountsorrel Railway purchased. The situation will be reProject. It was agreed unanimously that viewed next year.

It was agreed to obtain quotations for the Parish Council make a donation of £5000 to the project. the repairs and repainting of all village It was agreed that a representative of noticeboards, and for the purchase of a Arriva bus be invited to attend the meetnew Parish Council sign for the Walton ing on October 10.

Way noticeboard.

Mrs Megan Scotney was co-opted to CCTV has been installed at the pavilfill a vacancy on the council. ion on the Memorial Playing Fields. The council is obtaining quotes for a fenced off dog area at the Memorial playing fields.

A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on July 11.

It was reported that the Borough’s leisure centres, including the Soar Valley leisure centre in Mountsorrel, will be run by a new contractor from October 1

Alpha course starts

A 12 WEEK course investigating the Christian faith starts in Mountsorrel later this month.

One of those who helps to run the Alpha course, at Christ Church, is Mountsorrel’s Mick Butcher, who took the course himself for the first time in 1999.

“I went on the course thinking I didn’t need God in my life, my life was good and I didn’t see how God could improve it.” said Mick. “I came away from the course without my issues being resolved, so I was no further forward.”

It was after a second, one to one Alpha course, that things changed, Mick said: “I couldn’t deny there was a God anymore – as soon as I accepted God everything just clicked into place” he said.

The 12 week course at Christ Church Mountsorrel starts on September 23.

For more information contact Christine Butcher 0116 2376122

MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

Annual charities’ fete LOCAL CHARITIES set up their stalls on The Green in Mountsorrel for the annual charities’ fete in June.

Visitors also enjoyed an exhibition in the Scout hut staged by Mountsorrel Heritage Group called the Flora and Fauna of Mountsorrel.

Pic: Pat Radley and Jeanette Marshall Pic: (l-r) Karen Looms, Lyn Courtney and Sandra Ward from Mountsorrel Women’s Institute.

Pic: (l-r) George Overton and Simon Smith, volunteers with the Mountsorrel Railway Project

Mike Preston TRIBUTES HAVE been paid to Mike Preston, the former leader of Charnwood Borough Council, who passed away at the age of 67 after a short illness.

Mr Preston was the Conservative Councillor for Queniborough between May 1999 and May 2011, serving as leader of Charnwood Borough Council from May 2009 to May 2011.

He was also a County Councillor, serving from May 1993 and in that time held key positions including cabinet member and Deputy Leader.

Mr Preston was also a parish councillor.

Cllr David Slater, who succeeded Mr Preston as Leader when he stepped down in May due to illness, said: “It is greatly saddening to hear of Mike’s passing and our thoughts are immePic: Mike Preston diately with his wife Beryl at this time. Not only was Mike a cabinet colleague but he was my friend. He was a jovial, friendly man who was always eager to talk to people to discuss their concerns and issues.”

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MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

Inn praised

Young people earn awards

A LOCAL inn has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by tripadvisor.co.uk, the travel review site.

The Swan Inn in Mountsorrel was awarded the certificate because of the consistently high reviews it receives.

David Winsor from the Swan Inn said: “We try hard to provide the best quality in food, drink and service and this accolade is real evidence that our efforts are appreciated.”

One review states: “Simple but outstanding menu. Excellent atmosphere and always welcoming. Regularly changing guest ale. Don’t be put off by the view from the street, this is a hidden gem.”

The Swan Inn is a 17th century grade 2 listed building with a riverside garden and is located at 10 Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel.

A GROUP of young people aged 13-19 received awards at a ceremony held at Mountsorrel Youth Café.

The awards were for successfully completing a range of courses and activities including a two day first aid course and a food hygiene course that were both delivered from the café located on The Green.

Other awards presented on the night were Senior Members Award and an ASDAN Activities Award.

The awards, which were presented to the young people by Charnwood Borough Councillor Roy Brown, have all been delivered by County Council Youth Workers Mandy Gamble, Sam Evans, Joanna Clarke and Janet Amey.

The County Council Youth Service intend to continue providing youth work from the Mountsorrel Youth Café, alongside the café’s own youth worker and volunteers.

Victim LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE have launched a new website aimed at victims of crime.

Pic: at Mountsorrel Youth Care awards night are (left to right from top) Aaron Harrison, Jake Hillman, Sam Linney, Martin Ryan, Tom Ryan, Simone Brown

Woodlands Day Nursery is proud to announce that we have been awarded an Outstanding rating by Ofsted in all 17 standards.

Grooms, Ashleigh Eddy, Michaela Drew, Shanice Mason and Georgia Ward with youth workers Joanne Clarke, Mandy Gamble and Colin Laws.

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MOUNTSORREL POST

Water babies SWIMMING CLASSES for babies and toddlers are coming to Queniborough and Shepshed, with new classes starting this month.

Puddle Ducks was hatched in 2001 and is a fun and friendly swimming programme offering unique baby swimming and toddler swimming classes.

A spokeswoman, Liz Gabriel, said: “Classes are packed full of activities to develop water confidence and swimming skills with lots of music and rhyme, its flexible design means you can join at any age from 0-4 years. Children learn lifesaving, swimming and underwater skills and in all swimming classes learn to swim without armbands and with grace and efficiency.”

To join in the fun and book a free trial class call Liz on 07906 191 504 or email: nottinghamshire@puddleducks.com or visit www.puddleducks.com for more class information

SEP 2011

Youth café’s gift THE SORREL Youth Café is the first charity to receive a donation from a new scheme.

The Loughborough Round Table have given the café £260 as part of a commitment to donate £260 a month for the next year to local good causes.

James Tyler, chair of Loughborough Round Table said: “The Sorrel Youth café has recently been refurbished with the help of local businesses, and provides a much needed meeting place for the youth of the village.”

Sarah Bibb, the café’s full time youth worker said: “Sorrel Youth Café provides a safe space where young people can drop in, and since the refurbishment we donation.” have come into contact with well over Mr Tyler hopes that other local chari175 young people from within and ties will apply for the £260 Giveaway. around the area of Mountsorrel. Due to “Traditionally we have supported a small us being a charitable organisation we number of larger and better known local rely heavily on financial support from charities, the 260 giveaway is a way of grants, and individuals. We would like to reaching smaller local projects and we take this opportunity to thank Loughbor- are delighted to be supporting the Sorrel ough Round Table for their generous Youth Café and the valuable work they

Pic: Chairman of Loughborough Round Table James Tyler with youth worker Sarah Bibb

MOUNTSORREL COMMUNITY Action (MCA) group held a public meeting on July 14.

The aim of the group is to represent the views and concerns of residents, encourage their membership of MCA, improve local housing conditions, services, environment, security and quality of life for all residents.

The group’s next public meeting will be in October, look out for posters around the village – all are welcome to attend. The agenda is expected to include an update from Charnwood Neighbourhood Housing and a presentation from Helen Clarke, a Charnwood Neighbourhood Development Officer.

Action group

have been involved in” he said.

Any local charities wishing to apply for the remaining months of the 260 giveaway should apply online via the Loughborough Round Table website at www.loughboroughroundtable.org.uk

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MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

Poppy appeal: 90th anniversary THIS YEAR sees the 90th Anniversary of the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal.

On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, the First World War ended. In the aftermath people wanted to remember those who had given their lives for peace and free-

dom. The poppy, the only thing which grew following the devastation on the Western Front in Flanders and Picardy, was chosen as an emblem.

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of the Armistice on 11 November 1921 poppies were sold to raise money for the ex-Service community, a tradition that continues to this day.

The Poppy Collection funds the continuing and ever developing welfare work of the Royal British Legion which benefits service people and their families from all the campaigns from the 1st World War to today – remember there has only been one year (1968) since the end of 2nd World War when a British Service person has not been killed an active duty somewhere across the world.

Since 2003 we have provided financial Crime Update help to over 10,000 veterans of the Iraq Crime reported for the month of July and Afghanistan operations - and we are has decreased slightly compared to previinvesting £50 million in Personnel Reous years. There were 45 reports made. covery Centres and our Battle Back CenJulys’ crime figures are: tre to care 7 x ASB – considerable reductions, 5 for the x Thefts – various, 6 x Assaults – minor wounded of only, 2 x Theft from Unattended Motor current conVehicle, 3 x Burglary Dwelling (see beflicts. low), 1 x Theft of Motor Vehicle, 4 x More than 9 Burglary Other, 2 x Criminal Damage, 6 million people in the x Damage to Motor Vehicle, 9 x Non UK are eligible to call Recordable eg. Domestics on us for help and we aim to reach out to the 500,000 who we believe are in the greatest need - the financially vulnerable, those who are socially or emotionally isolated, and those in poor health or living with a long-term illness. We spent over £114 million on this work in 2010 which includes £1.4 million a week on delivering direct health and welfare support to Pic: PCSO Joyce (left) & PC Spiby around 100,000 people.

The Legion will be needed for as long Crimes of note are burglary dwellings as people continue to be affected by which occurred on Church Hill Road – conflict. It doesn't advocate war but is attempts only, no access gained. One simply there to support those who have further burglary occurred on Marigold been prepared to make a personal sacri- Lane, rear window smashed and cash fice through serving in the British Armed stolen. The burglary others were on Forces.

Cromwell Rd – shop premises, no entry We will be selling Poppies at locations gained. A garage on Braemar Cl was across the village from the official attempted but no entry gained. Rothley launch date of this year’s appeal: OctoRd – shed broken into and bikes stolen. ber 29.

On Loughborough Rd – lock up broken If you would like to help us we into and tools stolen. Work is currently would welcome your support, in particu- ongoing in relation to these crime relar in continuing the traditional door to ports. The increase in damage to motor door street collections for which the vehicles has increased and work is also village has a long and proud tradition. currently being done on this. These If you think you could help in this way reports are possibly linked. please contact John Doyle, Poppy Appeal If anyone has any information about Organiser Mountsorrel 0116 237 5623 crimes being committed in the area, or email johncdoyle@talktalk.net please telephone Leicestershire ConstabuTo learn more about the work of the lary on 0116 222 2222. You may also Royal British Legion see contact Crimestoppers, which is free and www.britishlegion.org.uk/can-weanonymous on 0800 555 111. help/who-we-help Crime Prevention Advice Mountsorrel Remembrance Day paDue to the recent increase in burglarade & Service, Sun Nov 6, 2011: ry dwellings and burglary other, I would Parade assembles at The Green at like to remind residents to remain vigi2.15pm for a march to St Peter’s. Servlant in relation to security. Please do not ice at 3pm. leave ground floor windows open or insecure overnight. It is so easy to overlook this whilst we are experiencing better weather. Always lock and secure your outbuildings and remember to report any suspicious activity as soon as you are able.

The burglaries are not just in Mountsorrel, it is an area problem so please do not think that Mountsorrel is the only village that is being targeted. Investigations are ongoing at present.

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You can leave a message for us – PC 2041 Glenn Spiby or PCSO 6442 Tom Joyce – by telephoning 0116 222 2222 and, when prompted, type in our collar numbers. We will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also send us an email by logging onto the website at www.leics.police.uk and clicking on the ‘Neighbourhood Policing’ icon.

MOUNTSORREL POST

Donations keep wheels turning MOUNTSORREL RAILWAY Project has received a donation of £5000 from Mountsorrel Parish Council.

“We are very grateful to Mountsorrel Parish Council for their help and support” said spokesman George Overton.

“Project volunteers had been working hard to match fund a donation of £6,000 that had been pledged by a member of the public, providing that we could match it before the end of September. So the Parish Council's donation, together with our existing fundraising, takes us well past the match funding required and therefore releases the additional £6,000 as well! This is great news for the volunteers who are working to preserve Mountsorrel's industrial heritage.”

Councillor Mick Lemon said: “The

Mountsorrel Railway project is an inspiration to everyone who lives in Mountsorrel and goes to show what is possible when the community works together.”

Over the last four years local people have volunteered in their spare time to help create a linear museum which connects to Loughborough's Great Central Railway (GCR). The project aims to run educational and public recreations of our industrial past and also for the GCR to run heritage passenger trains connecting with local tourist attractions at Mountsorrel, including Stonehurst Family Farm. The Mountsorrel Railway, when completed, will hopefully help secure and boost local jobs.

Project leader Steve Cramp said: “We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from the public. It was only in May that we launched our £20,000 fund raising appeal for the next section of track laying along the branch. We never thought that we would reach our target in only six weeks! The project relies on donations from the public to bring this ambitious project to reality and it's so good to see Pic: A close up view of the newly laid Mountsorrel Railway curving away from the GCR at Swithland Sidings. the community getting behind us

Pic: The restored bridge wall at Bond Lane.

This part of the bridge has been completely rebuilt by community volunteers from Mountsorrel.

like this. The Parish Council's donation really is the icing on the cake and their kind words of support are very much appreciated indeed.”

All this means that the current phase of track laying is now completely funded and, once materials are sourced, the group can lay the next 450 metres of track, giving almost half a mile of run-

SEP 2011

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ning line along the railway.

Steve added: “Fundraising immediately turns towards the remainder of the railway. Phase 3 will extend track for a further 500m almost to Wood Lane, and the final phase 4 will be the remaining 500m to the end of the line at Bond Lane. Both these phases will cost £25,000 each, so we still have some way to go to reach Mountsorrel!”

Donations can be sent to 112 Balmoral Road, Mountsorrel, Loughborough, LE12 7EW. The project is a registered charity so if you are a UK tax payer please down load a Gift Aid form from the project website www.mountsorrelrailway.org.uk. If you would like to get involved and volunteer yourself please contact: steve@mountsorrelrailway.org.uk

Pic: Nicky Morgan, Loughborough MP, visited the Mountsorrel railway recently to see the progress so far

10

MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

YOUR SAY...

better But after a while he write to the firm In fact, a very strong letter

“to provide social intercourse by means of concerts, outings and exhibitions of arts and crafts etc to give Rolls Royce all details printed free Employees an interest following their ‘Dear Sirs’ he wrote, ‘your product is retirement”. This aim still holds good trash, today with concerts at the Rolls Royce Fosse Co-op I thing I’ve been sold a pup.

Leisure complex on Moor Lane in Derby Three months ago I planted your seed outings this year to date to Woburn AbCamera Club Bur not one bird has come up bey, Llangollen, Port Sunlight, Marsh Leicester Farm, Love Never Dies and trips planned From Peggy Clarke We meet at St Peter’s Church Rooms, to Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, West Holme St (off Hinckley Rd) Llandudno and Bruges. each Friday at 7.45pm One of the highlights of this year will from Sep – May I read with horror that the Mountsor- be a “Last Night of the Proms” on OctoWe are a very friendly club who welrel Parish Council are looking at stopber 21 at Rolls Royce in Derby: watch come people of all standards. We are ping funding for our Christmas lights. the press for more details. always looking for new members and This must not be allowed to happen. I With many ex-employees living in the you are invited along to any of our have lived here for seven years and the Loughborough area who worked at the club evenings to meet us. lights are without doubt my favourite Mountsorrel factory until its closure in thing about the village!

1994 and many people being transferred We can offer tuition in the use of the I am not religious but every night for to Derby and Hucknall the Association is camera and also editing in Photoshop three weeks, driving home in the dark and Elements by prior arrangement keen to encourage new members from becomes a joy as I turn up The Green.

If you would like more details, or a this area.

The Christmas lights are the one thing in copy of the programme, contact: We hold a monthly get together at the village that truly caters for and can John Walters 0116 2992230 Rolls Royce Leisure on the second Tuesbe appreciated by all, no matter age or day of each month at 1pm where you emailjohn.walters8@ntlworld.com background. can meet up with ex workmates and or Mary Staps 0145 5820439 I’ve been looking forward to showing enjoy a drink and a reasonably priced ••• my baby the lights again now that she’ll light meal.

Tea, cakes and sale of be old enough to enjoy them a little Anyone interested can contact me on more. It will be a great shame if chil0116 2106917 or by email: second hand books dren in particular are cheated of this patrick.neal7@ntlworld.com at St Leonard’s, Main Street, beautiful display – especially when so Patrick Neal Swithland many Christmas displays are garish and Saturday and Sunday, September our tree lights on the Green are so magi10/11 cal! I appreciate that this is a time of 2-4.30pm budget cuts but this is one thing that will At the beginning of the 11th century (donations in aid of church funds) affect everyone in the area. There must in France, Mountsoreau was a military Come and join us on our last Open be a way to avoid this. strategic hill overlooking the river Loire Church for this year I hope that others who feel the same at the time of feudal rivalry between the way will voice their protest.

Thank you all who have made these regions of Touraine and Anjou.

Rosie Lawrence weekends so successful On the top of the hill, a rocky outEditor’s note: Mountsorrel Parish ••• crop overlooking the river Loire, was Council decided at its meeting on June Soar Valley Artists situated an old fort called the 'Castrum 13 to erect Christmas lights on The of Monte Sorello', which belonged to Annual Exhibition of Green in 2011 (see page 4).

Guillaume De Montsoreau and is recorded in a document of 1089.

Paintings The Lords of Montsoreau served the at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Counts of Anjou, who had power over Lane, Rothley The Rolls Royce Retired Employees that area of the Loire. During that period, Saturday & Sunday, October 1 & 2 Association was founded on February 23, Fontevraud Abbey was built nearby to 10am to 5pm 1951. The aim of the Association was become a Plantagenet power base. (King Admission free and refreshments Richard of England is entombed in the available Abbey) All are welcome The first chateau is thought to have ••• been built at Montsoreau during the 15th century, probably to control the navigation of the river Loire and boats allowed to pass the chateau. feltmaking and textiles from other counAfter the Norman Conquest, a castle tries. This year we have had speakers on was built on the English hill overlooking machine embroidery, goldwork, embroithe river Soar (probably known as the river Lear at that time). With the similari- dered gloves, hand-made paper and ‘talking felt’. Workshops have included ty between the hills overlooking both postcards for the 2012 Olympics and a rivers, it is possible the Norman occupiJapanese designs day, In October we ers called the English Castle after the Loire fort of 'Monte Sorello', which even- have a Sculpting with Silk dayschool and a Christmas self-help day in November. tually became known as Mountsorrel.

We have a speaker on the second The French History of Montsoreau Saturday of each month, excluding Aucan be found (in English) on the web gust (2.00 for 2.30pm) and 4-5 daysite: schools a year (10am-4pm). We meet at www.37online.net/gb/castles/montsoreau_gb.php Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone, Leicester and there Fred Newitt is on-site car parking. We have an extensive library and sales tables for members’ use.

Our next meeting is on September 10 You may not realise this but the when we will also be taking our subs for Leicestershire Branch of the Embroiderthe year. Please come along and see ers’ Guild has been in existence for over what we have to offer, our visitor’s fees 40 years and was the first branch to be are £4.50 but if you would like to join set up in Leicestershire and Rutland. after the meeting, this will be refunded.

We are a friendly group of mainly For further information please ring ladies who share a common interest in me on 0116 2890206 (after 6pm) or textiles which include hand embroidery, email: rita-yeo@virginmedia.com machine embroidery, papermaking, Rita Yeomans, Chairman

Noticeboard

Christmas lights

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

Bird seed A very dear friend has a beautiful garden Filled with flowers and lawn so green But he has one great disappointment; There’s scarcely a bird to be seen He has butterflies and bees and wriggly worms But not a bird in full song He digs and hoes and weeds and plants But knows there’s something wrong But then one day in a Garden Centre He spied a bag of bird seed ‘Of course’ he said, now I see the problem, This is what I need.

So he bought the bag and took it home He was sure things would now get

Mountsoreau

Rolls Royce

Embroidery

MOUNTSORREL POST

Syston Band Invite you to a free Concert in the Park Sunday September 18, 3-4pm Central Park, Syston Why not bring a picnic and enjoy a traditional family Sunday afternoon •••

Calling all Brass Players Syston Band Needs You Small friendly N Leicester brass band seeks players in all sections to help rebuild the band to fighting fitness Practice: Monday & Thursday Syston Brookside Club For more details call 0116 2609310 or 2675823 Email:tubdennis@aol.com systonbandmail@yahoo.com Players of all ages and abilities welcome ••• Ladies Circle Rothley Methodist Church, Howe Lane, Rothley

Coffee Morning Saturday October 1, 10-11.30am in aid of Air Ambulance Various stalls Everyone welcome •••

Ladies Circle Rothley Methodist Church, Howe Lane, Rothley Meetings start again on Tuesday September 13 at 2.30pm Sue Smith will be at our first meeting with a talk on her charity in Africa and her experience in South Africa Please come and join a friendly group of people For more info contact Joan Lovett on 0116 2374868 ••• Friends of Bishop Ellis Primary School Present

A Ladies Evening of Beauty Therapies and Shopping at Bishop Ellis Catholic Primary School, Thurmaston (opposite Asda) Friday, September 23, 7-9.30pm Stalls include mini treatments by Ragdale Hall and other beauty therapists, plus Lanza Hair, Zumba demonstrations, jewellery and gift stalls, plus much more Tickets: in advance £3.50, on the door £4 Price includes a complimentary welcome glass of Pimms or fruit punch For further details on purchasing advance tickets contact: Maria on 07875979058 or Susan on 07733310294 or soc_0537@yahoo.co.uk Event is ladies only •••

Charity Craft Fair Saturday October 8 10am to 3.30pm at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Admission 80p Over 25 craft stalls, including jewellery, ceramics, textiles, toys, gifts and lots more individually made and designed items Cakes, refreshments and raffle Why not spread the cost of Christmas

and start your shopping early.

All proceeds to the Leicestershire MS Therapy Centre, registered charity no.701925 Contact Susan on 0116 2388035 for more information ••• Birstall Birdwatching Club presents

The Charnwood Forest

by Michael Jeeves An illustrated talk on the birds, wildlife and natural history sites in Charnwood On Tuesday October 11 at 7.30pm The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Visitors welcome £2 Further information from Ken Goodrich on 0116 2674813 •••

Syston Band Open Evening Monday September 19 from 7.309.30pm Brookside Club Syston Want to learn a brass instrument but don’t know which one? Then come and try them all out Looking for a new band? Come and see what we have to offer Used to play and thinking about starting again?

Then we’re the band for you Syston Band is throwing open its doors to invite you to an open evening Members will be on hand to answer any questions you might have If you play already why not bring your instrument (or we will lend you one) and have a blow?

Who are Syston Band? We are a small, friendly and informal brass group with players of all ages. We practice on Monday 7.30-10.30pm (beginners 7.30-8.30) and Thursday 8-10pm at Syston Brookside Club Details: 0116 2609310 or 2675823, email:tubdennis@aol.com or systonbandmail@yahoo.com Or just come along on the night – players of all ages and abilities are assured of a warm welcome •••

SEP 2011

10am to noon Suitable for all levels of fitness, all welcome Entry fee £10 : two hours of fitness and fun and a goody bag More info: 01509 622022 ••• Christ Church, Mountsorrel

Jazz at St James!

The ALPHA course

George Huxley’s Jazz – one of the best traditional jazz bands in the Midlands!

A great night of great music in St James’ Church, Church Hill, Birstall Saturday October 15 at 7.30pm Tickets £10 on the door to include a glass of wine Make it a date in your diary!

••• Saturday November 26 10am to 2pm at Birstall Methodist Church Wanlip Lane, Birstall

starts at Christ Church on Friday, Sep 23 at 7pm Each of the 12 weekly meetings starts with a simple meal followed by a DVD talk on the meaning of life.

Please contact Christine Butcher for more information 0116 2376122 Back to Church Sunday On Sunday September 25 A warm welcome awaits all in Mountsorrel at Christ Church at 11am and St Peter’s at 6pm Christmas Tree Festival at Christ Church Saturday Nov 26 to Monday Nov 28 More details to follow later ••• Fri/Sat 25/26 November Birtstall Methodist Church

Table Top Sale (in conjunction with the Christmas Festival) Tables @ £10 each Contact Margaret - 0116 2672606 ••• SAGE

A driving assessment for Mature drivers Takes one hour with a friendly approved driving instructor On local roads Cost £25 Contact 0116 3057233 www.leics.gov.uk/sage ••• Rosemary Conley

2 hour Charity Aerobathon in aid of STEPS Loughborough University, Saturday October 8 Registration at 9am, event runs from

Christmas Festival "Winter Wonderland" in the Church Decorated trees, displays models, arrangements Santa's Grotto Friday 10am - 7pm Saturday 10am - 2pm Outdoor Christmas Market: Friday - 2pm - 7pm Table Top Sale: Saturday 10am - 2pm (tables £10 - Tel:0116 2671181) Refreshments & light lunches Friday/Saturday The December issue of the

MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Nov 26.

The copy deadline is Nov 11

Table Top Sale at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane LE7 7PR Saturday November 12 To book a table at the cost of £10 please ring 0116 2661342 for full details •••

Charity Bridge Drive organised by Loughborough Lions at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Wednesday November 9 at 1.30pm with afternoon tea provided at a cost of £6 per person To book a table please contact Jackie on 0116 2303317 •••

MOUNTSORREL’S PREMIER TREE SERVICE Just like the rest of your property, have you considered your trees require a little maintenance from time to time?

ARE YOUR TREES MAYBE? ...UNSAFE, TOO TALL OR UNTIDY ...BLOCKING LIGHT FROM YOUR HOME, OR YOUR NEIGHBOUR’S HOME ...LIKELY TO AFFECT YOUR PROPERTY STRUCTURE

Coffee Morning at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Saturday October 29 10am to 12noon Cakes, plants, gifts and jewellery (new & second hand), toys, tombola,

11

raffle, books, bric-a-brac and Phoenix Cards Everyone welcome – come along and get some early Christmas presents.

Entry £1 to include unlimited coffee and biscuits In aid of Cancer Research UK •••

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12

MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

Local lifesaving units QUARRY WORKERS and office staff at Lafarge are training as community ‘heart-start live-savers’ after receiving new defibrillation machines.

It means while the ambulance service is en-route, first-aiders at Mountsorrel Quarry and the Syston head office can provide vital treatment to heart attack victims, not only at their sites but also in neighbourhoods and businesses close by.

Research shows that applying defibrillation – a controlled electric shock – to someone suffering cardiac arrest within five minutes of collapse provides the best possible chance of survival Fast response to a heart attack emergency is therefore vital.

The machines have been supplied by East Midlands Ambulance Service through the British Heart Foundation’s community defibrillation scheme. The aim is to ensure good coverage across Leicestershire and the wider region so anyone suffering a heart attack can receive the fastest and most effective treatment possible.

Angus Shedden, site manager at Mountsorrel quarry, which has received one of the automated external defibrillators (AED) said: “Having this new lifesaving equipment on site is not only good news for our employees but also for the neighbourhoods close by. If we get a call from the ambulance service to says someone in Quorn for example has had a heart attack and can we attend quickly, the outcome for that person will be better than if they were left without any intervention before the ambulance arrives.

“Lafarge is committed to supporting local communities around its sites and this is one way in which we can make a huge possibly life-saving difference.”

While Mountsorrel only has one AED at the moment because of its size there are plans to invest in obtaining extra machines.

At Granite House, Syston, the HQ of Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK, the new AED will be on hand for employees and also for emergencies at other firms on the Watermead Business Park.

Chris Bates, facilities manager at Granite House, said: “Some years ago, while I was at another company, a good friend and colleague suffered a heart attack and sadly died, despite the best efforts of the paramedics when they arrived. There were no community defibrillators around then and I’m certain if there had been and it had been used quickly, his life could have been saved and he would be walking around today.

That is why these AEDs are so crucial and why I am so passionate about being involved in this scheme.”

Full training on the AEDs is provided

by East Midlands Ambulance Service, although as Sean Keown, community defibrillation officer, explained, even the inexperienced should be able to use one.

Sean said: “These modern AEDs are so simple and easy to use and they are true life-savers so it’s fantastic that Lafarge has got on board with the community scheme. It means both employees and people in the surrounding area have a better chance of survival should they succumb to a heart attack. The speed of response and the ease of use of the machine is the key. The rescuer turns on the machine and the machine then gives ‘voice prompts’- it tells the responder exactly what to do and where to put the electrical pads. These pads detect electrical activity in the heart and can tell if a shock is needed. Anyone can use an AED but we prefer people to receive training first which we are happy to provide. The benefit of using firstaiders as AED responders is that they are already aware of CPR techniques which can buy time before defibrillation is required.”

Pic: Mountsorrel quarry manager, Angus Shedden, Sean Keown from EMAS and Granite House facilities manager, Chris Bates, with one of the new defibrillation machines.

ALL TYPES OF DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL WORK

Enjoy a complimentary therapy treatment in a calm relaxing atmosphere. Meet & chat to other patients & carers over a cup of tea. Therapies available include aromatherapy massage, reflexology, Indian head massage & reiki

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Do you want to learn new SKILLS, Make new FRIENDS & have FUN? Then WE want to meet YOU! Classes in Melton & Birstall.

New Term starts 1st September Newcomers welcome to join for our Xmas Show and Spring Exams.

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call/txt POLLY: 07974333890 email: phase.arts@hotmail.co.uk www.phasearts.co.uk

Education grants YOUNG PEOPLE seeking financial assistance to help continue their education can apply to a village charity.

In 2010, grants amount to £111,756 were awarded to local school pupils, students and those in higher education and training.

The Mountsorrel Educational Fund is administered by a Body of Trustees who, at their absolute discretion, can award grants from the funds available to the Charity to assist young people in pursuing their education.

At their next meeting in November, the Trustees will be considering applications from persons who are planning to extend their education at College and University.

Applications can be made from persons under the age of 25, who are pupils or former pupils of Christ Church and Saint Peters Church of England School, or who have been or whose parents have been resident in the Electoral Parish of Mountsorrel for at least 12 calendar months.

The forms of application are as follows: Application Form 1 – University/Higher Education Application Form 2 – A Level/College Equivalent/Apprenticeships Application Form 3 – Educational Visits (Primary to A Level) Application form 4 – Music Tuition (Primary onwards) Application form 5 – Other Applications All of the above forms can be obtained by sending a stamped addressed envelope detailing which Application Form is required, to the Clerk to the Trustees, Mr P R Blakemore, KDB Accountants and Consultants Ltd, 21 Hollytree Close, Hoton, Loughborough LE12 5SE The deadline for submission of completed application forms is October 14, 2011.

Happy pensioners THE MOUNTSORREL Happy Circle for Pensioners would like to welcome new members to our meetings.

These are held every Thursday from 2-4pm in the Working Men's Club on Leicester Road, when we play bingo and have a raffle, a cup of tea and a biscuit.

The fee to join is only £2 per year and we have trips out from April to September, a birthday party and a Christmas meal. We also have a sale table several times a year when you can bring along items for us to sell to help our funds. We also have tombola tables at the charity fairs in July on the Green and in the Memorial Hall in November.

Why don’t you come along and join us – you don’t know what you are missing. Just turn up or you can ring me on 0116 2302958 to make sure we are not out on a trip.

From Peggy Clarke, Secretary

MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

13

Centres’ Youth new managers service

cuts

MORE THAN £1.9million will be invested in developing Charnwood’s three leisure centres over the next two years as YOUTH SERVICE provision in part of a new leisure contract, the county has been cut by 50 per cent. say the Borough Council.

Fusion Lifestyle has signed a 10.5 year deal with Charnwood Borough Council to manage the borough’s leisure centres: Loughborough Leisure Centre, Browns Lane, South Charnwood Leisure Centre in Syston and Soar Valley Leisure Centre in Mountsorrel.

As well as the investment in the centres, the new contract will also see £2.4million investment in equipment over the course of the deal and a £3.9million investment in repairs and maintenance. The new contract will also save the Council in the region of £4.6million over the lifetime of the contract.

The Council consulted with customers, stakeholders and councillors and used their feedback when determining the terms of the new contract.

Cllr Paul Harley, Charnwood Borough Council’s cabinet member for Leisure and Culture, said: “This is an incredible deal for leisure centre users and taxpayers. Not only will it see significant investment in our three leisure centres, but it will also see incredible savings to the council, so we are getting more for less.

“We listened to the needs of customers so during the tender process we were committed to ensuring we secured a deal which represented the best value for money and an improvement in service. We are very much looking forward to this new partnership. At the same time it is regrettable that our long and successful partnership with Serco Leisure is coming to an end but the Council’s aim is to ensure we continue to provide quality at an affordable and sustainable price.”

The new contract will begin on October 1 and there will be no disruption to customers and no job losses as part of the switch. Current staff will be transferred over to the new contractor in line with employment legislation.

Tim Mills, Business Development Director of Fusion Lifestyle, said: “We know that Charnwood Borough Council recognises the importance of sport and physical activity and we look forward to working with the Council to improve the leisure services, invest in the facilities and increase participation levels.

“As a registered charity we are committed to providing the local community with high quality services at a price that people are willing and able to pay.”

The County Council run service will now focus on the most vulnerable groups rather than providing a service to all young people.

Speaking at the Bradgate, Rothley, Mountsorrel and Birstall Area Forum, North Area Youth Officer Andy Hitchcock gave an update on the future of the service.

The focus of activity will now be in priority neighbourhoods, asylum seekers, disabled people and travellers.

Mountsorrel is a priority area and some provision will continue from the Sorrel Youth Café.

In Birstall the remaining service will be delivered from Birstall Youth Centre at Longslade and amounts to: • Senior Youth Club on Wednesdays • Special Needs Space Club on Monday evenings • Teenage Parents group on Wednesday afternoons • Sexual Health provision four to five times a week at lunchtimes Services at Woodhouse Eaves and Rothley have been withdrawn.

The County Council’s IMPACT team, which is part of the Youth Offending Service, will continue

The December issue of the

All classes can lead to stagework, medals and examinations.

MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Nov 26.

The copy deadline is Nov 11

Club’s new kit A MOUNTSORREL football club has received new kit and training equipment worth £753 courtesy of Lafarge.

Mountsorrel Imps Secretary/Treasurer John Hill said: “This is a marvellous gesture in these difficult times, it’s a fantastic donation and will provide us with kit we would struggle to obtain ourselves.”

Mountsorrel Quarry Manager Angus Shedden said: “Lafarge is committed to supporting communities close to its operations and we are more than happy to sponsor the Mountsorrel Imps.”

Pic: Ian Smith, Manager of Mountsorrel Imps, and Angus Shedden from Lafarge with the team.

New camera club A NEW camera club for all abilities will have its first meeting on September 6.

The Ulverscroft Camera Club will start each meeting with an optional one hour workshop to enable photographers to expand their knowledge.

Ian Hamilton-Smith, Founding Chairman, said: “This is meant to be a club for everyone of all photographic abilities.

The workshops will start from the very

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restart in the following two locations Mountsorrel Mountsorrel Memorial Hall on Tuesday 6th September 2011 from 7-9pm Woodhouse Eaves St. Paul's School and Community Centre, Meadow Road on Wednesday7th September 2011 from 7-9pm.

These classes are aimed at enabling you to incorporate Yoga into your everyday life and are facilitated by a teacher holding qualifications in both Yoga and the teaching of adults. Both of these classes are suitable for all levels of ability, this includes people who have not practised yoga before, and you can join these classes at any time in the programme.

Come and join in, learn a new skill and enjoy the process. For more information either email or phone me on , my name is Moira

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basics of uploading images from the camera onto a computer for further editing. In a very short time anyone with no knowledge will be quite proficient.”

Meetings will be held at Ulverscroft Grange at 7pm. For further information contact info@ulverscroftcameraclub.com.

Further details at www.ulverscroftcameraclub.com

14

MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

Lions’ gift of bird table

A BIRD table has been presented to a local care home by the Rothley and Soar Valley Lions Club.

PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN

Lions made the presentation at the Rose Cottage Old People’s Home on Rothley Road, Mountsorrel, in memory of Mrs Noreen Parker, a former resident who has recently died.

Mrs Parker had supported the Lions’ fundraising for many years by knitting various items.

Pic: (l-r) Nichola Schofield, Charles Parker, Ruth Johnson & Pamela Frost

Old kettle and iron worth £300

Budgens’ fete BUDGENS Mountsorrel store hosted a summer fete in July with a farmers’ market, craft and gift stalls.

The event was raising funds for a Police Office at the store

Sophie Scarborough (24) was given a scratchcard when she took the items to the Mountsorrel Recycling and Household Waste Site and discovered she had won a top prize.

The prize winning scheme, funded

by DHL Evironsolutions, aims to boost the amount of small electrical items that are recycled and ultimately help reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill.

Two £300 shopping vouchers as well as travel mugs and battery charger packs have been offered as prizes for lucky county residents who recycle old or broken gadgets such as kettles and hair straighteners at 13 of the County Council’s recy-

cling and household waste sites this August, or until scratchcards stocks last.

Sophie said: “I couldn’t believe it when I realised I had won, it was a really nice surprise. I do go to the waste site a fair bit. Having two young boys encourages me to recycle more – if I don’t the black bin ends up being full. It’s not difficult and I would encourage more people to take the time to do it.”

Electrical items that are battery operated, have a mains cable or need recharging can all be recycled.

The Mountsorrel Recycling and Household Waste site is on Granite Way.

PHOTOS: CLIVE RASIN

A MOUNTSORREL MUM found ‘treasure’ at a waste site when she won £300 worth of shopping vouchers after recycling an old kettle and an iron.

Market Staff make donation SHOPPERS WILL be able to bag even more fresh produce and Fairtrade goods as Charnwood Borough Council trials a second farmers’ market in Loughborough.

The Council which already hosts a farmers’ market on the second Wednesday of each month, is now set to trial a second market on the fourth Wednesday of each month. The trial will start on September 28 for three months, and, if successful, could see the second market open for business on a permanent basis. It will also feature green and ethical products and Fairtrade stalls to help promote locally grown and produced goods.

Currently 20 stalls make up the Loughborough Farmers’ Market in the town centre and it is anticipated the same number will trial the second market.

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STAFF AT a Leicestershire quarry raised £470 for the region’s air ambulance service.

Members of the Mountsorrel Social Club, based at Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK’s Mountsorrel granite quarry, amassed the cash through an annual celebration raffle.

Mick Stevens, Phase 1 Assistant Manager at Mountsorrel said: “We have a celebration charity raffle at the social club each year and everyone agreed we should support the local air ambulance.

They do such fantastic work and receive no government funding. Everyone at Mountsorrel is thrilled to be helping support such a wonderful organisation.”

Sophie Stevens from the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance accepted the cheque from Mick, saying: “We are enormously grateful to Mick and his colleagues at Mountsorrel Quarry. Our service relies totally on donations, fundraising activities and sponsorship and to keep our service going and continue saving lives we need to raise more than £1.7million a year so every gift of money counts.”

MOUNTSORREL POST

Summer holiday club

A LOCAL cover band enjoyed their biggest gig ever when they played at the Glastonbudget festival in May.

PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN

Parents were then treated to a lively performance of some of the songs learnt during the week.

Organiser Vivienne Barratt-Peacock said: “If I could choose one word to describe the week, it would be ‘happy’. The children all arrived, and left, with big smiles. The feedback from parents was very positive, with many saying they wished the club was continuing for the whole summer holiday!

‘Bible Stars’, a free Bible club for children, will now run on the second Saturday of each month at the Methodist Church. Please call 07748 590594 or email vivbp@talktalk.net for information. All welcome.

Standby is rhythm guitarist and lead singer Jacob Coleman, drummer Tom Bonnert, lead guitarist James Brown and Tom McHale on bass.

Jacob and James live in Mountsorrel and all the band, aged 17, go to Rawlins College.

“It was an amazing experience, in front of the biggest crowd we have every

played” said Jacob.

The band, who cover Artic Monkeys, Greenday and Kings of Leon, hope to repeat the experience at Glastonbudget in 2012.

Pic: Standby performing at Glastonbudget (l-r) Tom Bonnert, Jacob Coleman, James Brown and Tom McHale

MOT VEHICLE TESTING STATION

TESTING

PETROLS • DIESELS MOTORCYCLES CROPSTON GARAGE 37 - 39 Station Road Cropston, Leicester 0116 2362363

A CHURCH volunteer has retired.

Pam Cooper has been involved with Mountsorrel Baptist Junior church for over 30 years, in which time she was a teacher, secretary and treasurer.

Pam received a photo album as a gift and was presented with a Thank You card the children had made themselves.

15

Local band’s best gig

EVERY MORNING during the first week of August about 35 children from the Rothley and Mountsorrel area eagerly rushed to get to ‘Summer Stars’ Holiday Bible Club, many arriving half an hour early.

The week’s events, held at Mountsorrel Methodist Church, concluded with a concert for parents. The children acted out the Bible stories of Jonah and the Whale, Elijah, Daniel in the Lions’ Den and David and Goliath.

Thanks Pam

SEP 2011

Woodcock Farm Shop Pic: Pam Cooper (centre) receives a gift from Wendy Sibbaid (right) and Lydia Cant

Otter in park AN OTTER has been photographed in Watermead Country Park.

Parks officers from Watermead Country Park South have captured an image of the creature which is elusive and rare in urban areas, thanks to a remote-controlled camera triggered by heat and motion. The otter was caught on camera as part of the otter project which is being co-ordinated by Leicester City Council’s riverside team.

Pic: an otter photographed beneath Watermead Way Leicester City Council the surrounding area are ideal for otters, senior parks officer, Barry and the park justifies its status as a wildlife Ingram, said: “There’s no haven and a quality recreational asset.” doubt that Watermead and

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LOUGHBOROUGH RD, ROTHLEY Tel (0116) 230 2215 James 07802 915559 Fred 0797 7014606 OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 9am to 6pm Sat 9am to 5.30pm Sun 9.30am to 5pm Please note these times may change during public holidays. Ring us for details.

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16

MOUNTSORREL POST

SEP 2011

PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN

Planning applications

Café hosts tea party OUR PICTURE shows residents from local churches attending a tea party to raise funds for a charity that supports the children of persecuted Christians worldwide. The event, held in the Mountsorrel Youth Café, raised £300.

Quarry tour WEA courses MORE THAN 800 pupils from county schools toured Mountsorrel quarry this summer.

The aim of the visits was to emphasise safety messages and help teachers bring the national curriculum to life.

Older students, scientists and foreign exchange visitors also saw the site, operated by Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK, but primary age children made up the majority of the audience.

The aims are to show youngsters that quarries are not a playground as well as tying into lessons about rocks and soils, the environment, and industry and nature.

On the tour the children were able to look into the quarry itself from the visitor viewpoint, get up close and personal with a parked digger and watch an excavator load piles of granite into 100 tonne dump trucks.

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

0116 2696247 (quoting reference BP)

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THE BIRSTALL & Rothley branch of the WEA is offering a range of courses this autumn including.

AN INTRODUCTION TO MIXED MEDIA A chance to explore a variety of techniques and media, providing a taste of skills using pencil, charcoal, pen, ink and watercolour, whilst also practising the basic disciplines of drawing and painting. On-the-spot demonstrations and discussion will be supported with examples of artists’ work. For beginners or those who want to try new skills. Booking essential.

Tutor: Jo Sheppard. Fee £67. Discounted £60.30 (not available to the retired) or free.

Venue: The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Monday 1.15-3.15pm. 10 meetings from 19th September Further information from: Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 or vincent.mbe82@yahoo.co.uk Franca Freeman 0116 2362566 francafreeman@hotmail.com

Group Fitness in Rempstone and Wymeswold Rempstone Village Hall: Body Combat: Tuesdays at 6:30pm, Wednesdays at 7:30pm - £4 Body Balance: Mondays at 6:00pm, Tuesdays at 7:30pm – £4 Zumba Fitness: Wednesdays at 6:30pm, Wymeswold Memorial Hall: Thursdays at 6:15pm - £3 Call Suzie on 07791983563 to book!

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is still required if you are selling or renting out your house.

Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC

P/11/1871/2: Co-op Supermarket 109111 Rothley Road, Mountsorrel. Alterations to store entrance, glazed screens beneath canopy and new shop front P/11/1797/2: 28 Market Place, Mountsorrel. Fell 1 ash tree and prune overhanging branches to 1 fruit tree P/11/1796/2: St Peters Church, Market Place, Mountsorrel. Remove 6 overhanging branches from 1 ash tree P/11/1780/2: Neil Harby, Transport, Granite Way, Mountsorrel. Variation to condition No.4 of PP 2002/2730/02 to allow HGV movements on public and bank holidays P/11/1778/2: Mountsorrel Quarry, Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel. Extension to standard havens screen mound at Mountsorrel Quarry. Land adj to Hawcliffe Road.

P/11/1604/2: Mountsorrel Quarry adj to Rushey Lane, Rothley. Modification to existing southern mound at Mountsorrel Quarry P/11/1665/2: 27 Kestrel Lane, Mountsorrel Erection of conservatory to rear of dwelling P/11/1613/2: Mountsorrel Quarry, Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel. Erection of scalping screens at quarry.

P/11/1578/2: 12 The Green, Mountsorrel. Felling of l blue spruce, 1 whitebeam and two cotoneasters P/11/1485/2: Adjacent 231 Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel. Notification of installation of 1 electronic communications equipment cabinet P/11/1385/2: Mountsorrel Hotel, 217 Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel. Erection of single storey extensions to side and rear, porch and detached outbuilding to front of hotel.

P/11/1285/2: 48 Linkfield Road, Mountsorrel. Erection of two storey extension to rear and single storey extension to side of dwelling

LINK CARS Rothley • Private Hire

Serving the local community for 28 years: 1983-2011 LOCAL AND LONG DISTANCE ALL AIRPORTS ETC

0116 2302558 Advertise in the

MOUNTSORREL POST

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 MATHEMATICS TUITION: A Level & GCSE, Birstall based. Call 0773 7352932

Contact us THE MOUNTSORREL Post is delighted to receive contributions from residents. You can send us: Details of a community event such as a rummage sale, fete or coffee morning for free publication on our ‘Noticeboard’ page.

Items of news - we’re interested in everything: club and society news, prizewinners, charity events, church news, complaints, praise, new projects, new facilities, trips, sport, crime, anything that concerns or interests you.

A letter for our letters page - we welcome letters on any issue, local or national. All letters must include the sender’s name and address (though not necessarily for publication).

Photos - we particularly welcome old photographs giving an insight into local history.

Small ads - you can sell items with a classified ad for only 25p!

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

MOUNTSORREL POST YOUR INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

47 x 59mm £23 • 47 x 120mm £41 98 x 59mm £41 • 98 x 120mm £69

Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH

1) Decide what size you want 2) Send us a sketch of your ad 3) We design, publish This Siz & send e you the Wednes bill days

Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson

S£E2X3Y +VAT

CALL 2674213 for an advertising rate card, or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk The prices above exclude VAT

Editorial/Advertising (Tel & Fax)

0116 2674213 Correspondence, news etc can be handed in at: Mountsorrel Library, Rothley Post Office or to our office in the Youth Centre, Longslade College, Birstall

editor@birstallpost.co.uk