Rothley Post (162) Sep/Oct 2023

Jubilee HE OTHLEY OS Park No. 162 meadow SEP/OCT 2023 Hugo’s world cup adventure

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A MEADOW area has been created on Jubilee Park in Cropston to encourage more wildlife to the site.

EIGHT-YEAR-old Hugo Hardy from Rothley will be walking out onto the pitch with the England team at the Rugby World Cup in France.

Hugo, a pupil at Rothley school, was chosen from among thousands of children who had entered a competition to become a Defender of Tomorrow, organised by Land Rover Defender, that aimed to find heroic children.

Hugo's uncle and grandma felt he deserved to be nominated, because of his tireless support of his four-year-old cousin, Eli, who was born ten weeks early and is non-verbal autistic.

Pics: Hugo Hardy with Leicester Tiger’s Freddie Steward at the Welford Road stadium

Hugo a tour of the stadium, answering his many questions along the way. His favourite Leicester Tigers player, Freddie Steward, came to meet him and shared the news that he had been chosen as a Defender of Tomorrow.

Martin Tibbles Hugo’s video application really touched the heart of the England rugby team. In his video, Hugo spoke with real passion and dedication about raising awareness of autism. So much so that not only was he chosen to become a Defender of Tomorrow, but the team wanted to give him a more special presentation.

For his presentation, Hugo was invited to Welford Road stadium and was greeted by a TV crew from ITV, as well as a film crew from London. They gave

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The area is on land which is loaned

by Charnwood Borough Council and has been designed by Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council.

Over 100 tree saplings have been planted, and mowing will allow some areas to become more natural and attract more species.

Funding for the project has come from a SHIRE Environmental Grant from Leicestershire County Council.

Cllr Anne Gray, the Council’s lead member for open spaces, said: “It is fantastic to see this area be created at Jubilee Park, and I very much enjoyed hearing about its creation and the plans.

“We always want to see different species and wildlife at parks across Charnwood for walkers and visitors to enjoy.

“This is just the beginning of the project and I look forward to seeing it grow and expand over the coming year.”

Cllr Sue Graham, chair of the open spaces committee at Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council, said: “We are so pleased to see this project begin and the impact that it is starting to have already.

“It is important for us to become more biodiverse and attract wildlife to this park and make it a habitat for differContinued on page 2

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Special 90th birthday surprise Dementia choir, Mother's Union Branch and the wider village community.

Dorothy's daughter Joan and her husband Ahmed had flown in from Houston, Texas, and this was another wonderful surprise for Dorothy.

Dorothy hails from Scotland, and the choir had

learnt a special hymn, much loved by Dorothy, which she used to sing as a young girl at Kirk in Scotland.

“The choir sounded in very good voice, and it was a lovely afternoon,” said party guest Marion Whitby.

Parish Council notes

mittee of Rothley Parish Council be given delegated powers that will enable it to make decisions regarding planning matters without them having to go to the full council for approval.

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council: no meeting was held in July and the August minutes were not available at the time of going to press.

Pics: (left) Dorothy coming into the Old School Room followed by her daughter, Joan (over here from Houston, Texas); Dorothy, Joan and her husband, Ahmed.

Dorothy is thanking everyone for coming and explaining what life was like in Scotland in 1933

On Saturday August 26, Dorothy Birkett was joined by more than 40 guests: from Rothley Parish Church, the Church

A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on August 21.

The local police team have reported a problem with antisocial behaviour on Kinchley Lane.

County Councillor Leon Hadji-Nikolaou commented that funding made available to carers had received a poor take up and that the County Council needed to improve the way it communicated with the public, to make them aware of opportunities for support that are available.

County Councillors are given an annual members’ highway fund, a sum of money that can be allocated locally to highway improvements. Enquiries will be made into the provision of a mobile vehicle-activated speed sign for Rothley.

Borough councillor Mark Charles reported that a contractor that the borough uses to refit council properties had gone into administration. While a new contractor was sought, the council’s own team had taken over. He said that £860,000 has been allocated to deal with the backlog of repairs that had been building up.

Cllr Charles reported that the developers of the Broadnook Garden suburb expected to have houses ready for sale in July 2024.

The council agreed to spend £750 on painting the cemetery gates and railings, and £820 on repointing four brick pillars at the cemetery.

It was agreed to present a £150 gift voucher to a volunteer who had helped the council with cemetery records.

The council has submitted an objection to a proposal to build 40 dwellings off The Ridings.

It was agreed that the planning com-

group meets THE NEW Soar Valley Dementia Group will now meet on Tuesday September 26, from 1112.30 at Rothley Community Library.

This group will be run by people with dementia, for people with dementia.

Carers and others will be welcome, but the focus is on peer support for people with dementia, which can be enabling and empowering, and helpful for everyone affected. The group will make decisions what about they want to do, and some people may become involved in raising awareness about dementia locally.

The group now has the support of the Social Prescribing Team at the NHS, and several volunteers have offered to help.

There will be a small stall at the library during the Scarecrow Festival, on September 23/24, to talk about dementia and about the group. This is part of Reimagining Dementia’s international launch of ‘Taking it to the Streets’, a campaign which aims to change the ways we think about dementia, and begin to talk more openly about it.

For more information, email soarvalleydementiagroup@gmail.com.

From Soar Valley Dementia Group

Continued from page 1 ent species by providing both food and shelter.

“This has been a real community project and I would like to thank the volunteers, local schools and different community groups who have helped with

shrubs. These surveys will continue to take place to monitor the impact that it is having on attracting wildlife to the area.

Information boards will also be provided, highlighting the project and the types of wildlife at Jubilee Park.

The Borough Council maintains over

planting and developing the plans.”

The saplings were donated by the Woodland Trust and planted by volunteers and members of the parish council.

Wildlife surveys have taken place at the open space from March to July this year, and they have shown 65 species of plants, 25 species of birds and 15 species of mature trees and hedgerow

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Pic: Cllr Anne Gray, the Council's lead member for open spaces, waste and leisure facilities with Cllr Susan Graham, chair of open spaces committee at Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council, Councillors from the Parish Council and volunteers

SEPTEMBER 2023

A ROTHLEY resident celebrated her 90th birthday at a surprise party in the Old School Rooms.

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Rothley tennis club’s lively summer “IT HAS certainly been a lively summer so far with our teams playing in the leagues and lots of club sessions and club competitions to get people playing” says Anne Mumford, Chair of the Rothley Ivanhoe Tennis Club.

wanting to play matches, to have some competitive fun.

Sunday afternoon tournaments proved highly successful. “What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon,” said Jamie Colville, who manages the internal tournaments and competitions. “With the team competition proving once again to be particular fun, with team white pic“We continue to see ourselves as a tured here winning,” he added. club for all with players of different The club was particularly delighted standards and tennis experience.” that match secretary John Mumford, who has been line judging professional tournaments for a few years after retiring from teaching, got selected for Wimbledon.

“This was a great honour,” said John, “and it was so interesting to see behind the scenes, as Pic: Women’s third team at the end of their final league match. well as being on tos which got posted on a court with the top “Where’s John” WhatsApp players in the group! world”.

The club members John officiated have also enjoyed some for the first nine Pic: Sunday afternoon team competition winners – Team White days of the tourna- social events, including pétanque at the Woodies. ment. “I certainly The club’s teams have performed well The club is open to hope I get selected next year,” he said. and most have retained their league new members. Non-memClub members who went to Wimbledon positions with the men’s third team bers can also book courts tracked John down and took some phobeing promoted. on a pay and play basis, The club’s and booking online has internal competijust been launched. To tions and club book, go to sessions give www.rothleytennis.info. opportunities for For more information league players, about the club contact us and those not on Pic: a club social event - pétanque at The Woodies

enquiries@rothleytennis.info

Pic: John Mumford on court at Wimbledon (nearer line judge)

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Brownies’ nonstop fun, learning & adventure The Network badge is all about communication, and we began by trying to communicate without speaking, eg using our fingers to express numbers in a game to tell our age or month of birth.

Another game involved discovering which was best, looking or listening, in order to communicate details.

For International Nurses Day, Barn Owl and Brown Owl appeared in their nurses' uniforms, and we heard the stories of Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole. The following week, some Brownies dressed as nurses, others as injured soldiers and we acted out a play about Florence Nightingale establishing good hygiene practices in the Scutari hospital during the Crimean War. Plays and stories are more methods of communicating.

We celebrated World Bee Day and learned how worker bees communicate with other members of the hive about the direction to a good source of nectar and pollen. They do a figure of eight or waggle dance. We practised waggle dancing, then went on a walk across the fields from the church in Thurcaston to the playground in Cropston and looked for pretend bees that Barn Owl, Snowy Owl and Marley the dog had hidden earlier in the day.

The following week was National

Biscuit Day, and we also learned how to communicate by using clues.

The Brownies had to be detectives and find pretend biscuits hidden in our meeting place.

We learned the origin of biscuits as a way of carrying food on long sea voyages and that the British eat more biscuits than anyone else. Finally, the Brownies were rewarded with Penguin biscuits.

Pic: Brownies admire a sleeping fox at the Beacon Hill sculpture trail Communicating locations with the aid of a map we expe- activities of hide-and-seek and parachute rienced by following the yellow standard games. course for orienteering in Castle Hill We are looking forward to starting Park, Anstey. again in September.

Domestic Appliance Father’s Day loomed, so the girls We are sorry to lose several girls as made gift boxes and peppermint cream Spares & Repairs they have reached age 10. |So we have sweets as presents. a few spaces for new recruits. Girls need All Leading Makes Serviced We tried Mexican weaving (God’s to be aged seven to start. We meet on 20 Years Experience Eyes) and decorated plant pots to enter Wednesday evenings during term time, Washers • Dryers • Dishwashers in the village garden shows to be held in 6pm until 7.15pm, at the Harrison room Fridges • Cookers the summer holidays, of All Saints Church, Anstey Lane, ThurThe Brownies, their families (and GAS & ELECTRIC caston. Contact Brown Owl at the followdogs) joined us to walk around the ing number for more details, but please impressive Sculpture Trail at Beacon Hill. do not phone during work hours. 07711 David Preston - 0775 262 3885 See the photo of everyone and the spec422 350 tacular willow weave Fox. www.1-4-all.co.uk Report from Snowy Owl, Thurcaston We ended the term with our favourite Brownies

1 - 4 - ALL

SEPTEMBER 2023

THIS SPRING and summer, Thurcaston Brownies have been busy enjoying a range of stimulating activities. Snowy Owl reports:

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ì ì5 ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì Roof leaks • Flat Roofs ì ì ì Jet Washing • Moss Removal ì ì ì Gutters Cleaned, Fixed ì ì ì ì & Repaired ì ì General Property Maintenance ì ì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ìì ì ì djk03@hotmail.co.uk ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì ì

Site for 40 new homes in Rothley DJK Roofcare S WI T

PROPOSED SITE

TH E

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DI NG S

Pic: a view of the site from The Ridings

development would comprise 20 fourbedroom homes, 16 three-bed properties and four two-beds. A new access would be created from The Ridings.

Rothley Parish Council has objected to the plans on the grounds that: The site was not allocated for housing in the Draft Local Plan

The site is on greenfield land outside the limits of development and in an area of local separation It does not meet the objectives for sustainable development The site is some distance from bus routes and local service centres and

Centre appeals for volunteers

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEPTEMBER 2023

THE MOUNTSORREL & Rothley Heritage Centre is always on the lookout for willing volunteers.

A centre spokesperson said: “Maybe you have green fingers and could help out maintaining and developing the gardens, lend a hand in the Nunckley Garden Nursery, or assist around our nature trails. Do you have DIY skills that could be put to use on the railway or the lift bridge? Or maybe you have a few hours to spare to help out around the site, chatting to visitors or helping to run the Garden Railway.

“In particular, we are looking to recruit volunteers who would like to learn how to look after steam locomotives, learn to drive diesel locos and help with our shunting demonstrations and upcoming narrow gauge passenger train rides.

Volunteers must be available for a mini-

mum of two weekend days each month.”

The narrow gauge railway opened in July, taking passengers around the quarry bottom. The spokesperson said: “We are desperately short of volunteers to drive the train and act as a guard. If you would like to train as a driver or guard, PLEASE get in touch. Our Garden Railway has similar problems, so if you don’t fancy helping out with a full-sized engine, you could always scale down to help on the garden railway.”

More details about volunteering are on the centre's website, or you can email volunteer.2020@heritage-centre.co.uk Pic: The quarry bottom narrow gauge railway at the Mountsorrel & Rothley Heritage Centre needs volunteers to operate it

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The planning application has resulted in dozens of objections from local residents, concerned about the impact on the road network, local facilities, settlement separation and wildlife habitat.

Developers Michael and Norman Reynolds hope to get permission from Charnwood Borough Council to build 40 houses on fields between the Ridings and Gipsy Lane in Rothley.

The site is arable pastureland. The

HLAN D LA NE

FORTY NEW homes are planned for a site off the Ridings, Rothley.

facilities at Rothley & Mountsorrel, and it would therefore not promote sustainable development and encourage sustainable transport use The site is outside the limits of development as set out in the Rothley Neighbourhood Plan, and in the Borough Council's own supporting evidence for the draft local plan Details of the application can be viewed on the planning pages of Charnwood’s website; the reference is P/23/0978/2

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Garden owners celebrate open weekend Ambulance, who also gave a short talk about the essential work of the Air Ambulance Service.

In addition to the money raised for Air Ambulance, over £1500 was raised for other charities, including youth mental health, MS, and RSPCA. The Open Gardens weekend was a great success, and the Open Gardeners would like to thank everyone who helped on the day and to everyone who visited us.

See you again next year!

GARDENERS FROM most of the Thurcaston and Cropston Open Gardens gathered for afternoon tea on a Sunday afternoon to celebrate this year’s successful event.

The Open Gardens weekend was held, as always, at the end of June. It was a very hot weekend, but we still had a record number of visitors. We also raised our best-ever amount of money for our local Air Ambulance.

So, at our Sunday afternoon gathering, we were able to hand over £3,200 to a representative of the East Midlands Air

From TCOG

Pics: (top) Some of the gardeners at the Sunday afternoon celebration; Visitors walking through the flowers, taking a seat in the shade and finding interest in a pond teeming with wildlife

THE JOE Humphries Memorial Trust Christmas Fair will this year be held on Sunday November 5, from 11.am – 3.30pm, at the Mountsorrel Memorial Centre.

At this popular event you can find locally sourced artisan products while helping The Joe Humphries Memorial Trust to save young lives.

“Start your Christmas shopping early with some beautiful gifts, food and wine and unique beautifully crafted products all under one roof without pushing round shopping centres! You’re sure to find that special individual gift from the wonderful choice on offer,” said a Trust spokesperson.

For further information about the work of JHMT go to jhmt.org.uk

SEPTEMBER 2023

Find gifts at fair

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Club celebrates special day A ROTHLEY golfer, who once played a round with former world number one Ian Woosnam, has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Rothley Park Golf Club Honorary Life Member, Mrs Anna Wykes, recently had her 100th birthday, and to commemorate this fantastic achievement her daughter, Susie Tyler, the current Lady President, organised a Centenary Shotgun and lunch at the club for the ladies to enjoy.

Anna has been a member of Rothley Park GC for over 30 years and on her 90th birthday, was made a lifetime Honorary Member. She continued to play until she was 92, after which she enjoyed lunch with her friends at the club most weeks on ladies’ day.

Anna, and her husband Wally, lived in Kenya for 25 years, where they both took up golf. Her fantastic list of achievements included picking up the Nairobi Ladies Championship Trophy eight times and

Pic: (l-r) Suzy Barre, Noreen Merriman, Anna Wykes, Jo Scrivens and Lorna Hodkinson

playing off a handicap of 3 for many years.

After the lunch, Anna presented the Shotgun winners with their prizes and then recalled many of her memories of growing up in Holland, moving to London after the war and meeting her dear husband, who passed away just three

years ago. She also told of her round of golf with Ian Woosnam, one of the highlights of her time in Africa.

It was a wonderful day with her family, children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren and over 80 ladies members who enjoyed her generous hospitality.

Hearing loss? Lipreading group can help information about Hearing Link Services, please visit: https://www.hearinglink.org/ If you have hearing loss and would like to meet others to socialise, share ideas and improve your lipreading skills, please consider joining our lipreading group. We meet weekly during term time Birstall Lipreading Group were lucky at Birstall Library on Saturday mornings. to meet two Hearing Dogs, Zyla and All ages and abilities are welcome. Your Grace, when we were visited earlier this first session is free of charge, so you year by Merleen Watson, a volunteer for have nothing to lose!

Hearing Link Services.

Here’s what some of our members Merleen gave an excellent presentasay about the group: tion outlining the support offered by the ‘It’s exercised my brain, is great fun charity; they believe that everyone should with lovely people and is very informareceive the support necessary to live life tive.’ to its fullest potential.

‘It’s good to learn a new skill & helps While not everyone with hearing loss me feel I can do something to make my will require the services of a Hearing struggles with hearing loss more manageDog, many may benefit from the range able.’ of services that Hearing Link has to offer.

‘It is helpful to me to find a group of This could be practical advice on assispeople who understand the issues loss tive devices or more personalised supof hearing can raise & to learn about port and guidance. For more possible resources & coping strategies.’

‘I feel like I’ve found my tribe.’

‘I cannot express to you how much these sessions have helped me, not just with regard to the reading of lips, but also with me coming to terms with my hearing loss and having a friendly, supportive place to discuss how I feel Pic: Meet Grace: she is a ‘Hearing Dog’ puppy-in-training, about it.’

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SEPTEMBER 2023

MOST PEOPLE are aware that dogs can be trained to help people who are visually impaired – not so many know that dogs can be trained to help people with hearing loss too.

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For more information about Birstall Lipreading Group (and other classes available), please contact Jenny Cluley:

Email: jenny@readinglips.online Text: 07889 544997 From Jenny Cluley, Lipreading Tutor

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THE ROTHLEY POST

SEPTEMBER 2023

8

Objections growing to country park plans MORE THAN 1800 people have signed a petition objection to plans for a 77-acre business site on land next to Watermead Country Park that developers say would create 918 jobs and generate millions of pounds for the local economy.

PHOTOS: © BRENDON BROCKWAY

Developer Wanlip Holdings Ltd says the development, between Birstall and Thurmaston, will provide 70,600m2 of employment space, including offices, service yards and parking, on almost 77 acres.

The site lies to the east of John Mer-

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEPTEMBER 2023

rick’s Lake and would be accessed by the roundabout near the Hope & Anchor pub.

Those objecting are highlighting the loss of habitat and wildlife, and increased pollution.

One enthusiastic visitor to the country park is Brendon Brockway, and he sent us his reaction to the plans: As a regular user of Watermead Country Park and a keen photographer, I can often be found taking pictures of the local flora and fauna. The parks plant and wildlife are gifts that continue to amaze me.

I have a few favourite places that I always return to, some are in plain sight, and a few are off the beaten track. One spot that’s just perfect for just stretching out and watching the world go by is near the old bird hide. Here I’ve watched kingfishers dive for bounty, cormorants nesting and feeding their young and little egrets performing acrobatics.

John Merrick’s Lake

NORTHè Hope & Anchor í

Pic: Map shows location of planned development

in hand, I was panicking as the lens was too big and the otter was too close, I could hear myself say “damn” as this was an opportunity missed but guess what, the otter gods were on my side, it had turned around and as it drew level with me dived and then resurfaced about 25 to 30 feet away where it rested its head on the water.

I couldn’t tell if the otter was looking at me with contempt or in disbelief that someone had dared to disturb it while it was hunting. Then suddenly it

lifted its head, hissed, turned, and dived and was gone.

I walked home feeling honoured that I had encountered nature in its fullest sense, a truly wild animal in a habitat that supports it.

Since my encounter, I’ve caught sight of an otter on another four occasions, once for a split-second while in the same spot, twice in the River Soar and once by the car park at the top of King Lear’s Lake.

Prior to this, I’d heard a couple of people say that otters had been seen up

by King Lear’s Lake, but I’d never seen one and, to be honest, I’d thought it In the same spot, I had recently spot- would never happen.

But why does this matter? ted Muntjac deer crossing the waters I learned recently that there has been and I’d returned to see if I could get a a proposal to develop land adjacent to few shots.

Things were on the quiet side and the Watermead that would see, if granted, light was fading, so I decided to pack up. the development of 70,600 square metres of warehouses for storage and distriI had just seen some coots panicking bution. The warehouses will be built and scattering across the water when I right up to the canal alongside John suddenly realised why. As I stood up, Merrick’s Lake, finishing parallel with there was a sudden movement in the the car park at King Lear’s Lake. water and from around the corner, I If approved, the development of the heard a whoosh and then I saw it. For site will involve the disruption and dea split second, I thought “what’s that” and then I realised it was an otter. This struction of surrounding land and lakes, welcome visitor glided past me. Camera heavy construction traffic and ensuing

noise and dust. It is likely that once they were up and running, the operation of the facilities will be around the clock 24/7. The result of this will affect the

balance and tranquil nature of the park which is likely to be transformed forever.

Not only does Watermead support so much wildlife, it also provides a release for so many people; it was a valuable lifeline during the pandemic and continues to contribute to the health and wellbeing of so many. Its importance must never be underestimated.

But what can you do?

If you haven’t already done so, you can do one or more of the following: Sign the petition at: Say no to warehouses around Watermead Country Park! | 38 Degrees Get in touch with Charnwood Borough Councils Planning Department and let them know that you’re not happy.

Get in touch with your local Ward Councillor and say NO TO DEVELOPMENT. Get in touch with your local Member of Parliament (Edward Argar MP).

And lastly, there’s currently a competition being run by Go Leicestershire, who are asking the public to name their favourite local attraction in Leicestershire as part of the Leicestershire Promotions Tourism and Hospitality Awards.

Let’s make Watermead the best day out

in Leicestershire.

You can nominate Watermead at: Best Day Out (goleicestershire.com) Otters are listed as a rare and most threatened species and there is legislation that has been designed specifically to protect them.

Let’s not let the developers drive our otters away.

Julie Palmer, a Birstall Borough Cllr, said: “You may be aware of the proposed development to build warehouses that encroach on Watermead Park land.

The park is an oasis of calm in an otherwise highly developed area and it can do without further pressure from building work and increased traffic.

“I and many others are extremely concerned that it will disrupt the tranquil nature of Watermead and drive away some of the rare species of animal life found here. Please join our campaign to save Watermead’s character by signing the petition and following the links and advice suggested by Brendon.”

To the north of the A46, a new wetland is proposed by the developer to mitigate the loss of open water habitat on the site. The developer says: “This will not only secure a new area of wetland with associated structural planting measures, it will also secure the extension of the wetland habitats associated with this part of the Soar Valley, but also reinforce the landscape setting to the north of the A46 and provide accessible greenspace connected to the Grand Union Canal corridor.”

The planning application details can be read on the planning pages of Charnwood Borough Council, where you can submit comments. The reference is P/23/0668/2.

Pics: Brendon’s photos taken in the park show an otter, Muntjac deer, a heron and an owl

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The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, Leicester, LE7 7PR Normal Office Hours: Monday to Friday 09.00 to 11.00am www.rothleyparishcouncil.org.uk Phone: 0116 2374544 Email: clerk@rothleyparishcouncil.org.uk

Newsletter No 16 Sept/ Oct 2023

As part of the commemorations to mark the Coronation, the Parish Council also restored all broken white bollards, had all bollards re-painted as well as the black linking chains.

The original bollards and chains along with the beech tree were put in place in May 1954 to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The view above was taken in July 2001 before the addition of the large granite block and accompanying plaque in 2002.

Floral displays We have been in discussions with the contractor who supplies the floral displays requesting that they arrive earlier than the current end of June date. The displays look very good but RPC believe that we should have them at least a fortnight earlier.

They are due to be removed in October.

Hearing loops 3 large rooms in the Rothley Centre are going to be fitted with hearing loops this summer.

L.C.C. are encouraging parish councils to engage in projects & R.P.C. and have responded by taking part in these initiatives ~ wild flower verge scheme ~ Parish Nature Network ~ tree planting ~ investment in good quality open & play spaces ~ investing in LED street lights that belong to R.P.C. Communications In order that residents know which council to contact for certain issues the list below outlines responsibilities of some of the major services Leics County Council Tel: 0116 232 3232 · Grass verges · Trees on public roads · Footpaths & pavements · Street Lighting · Parking · Traffic issues Charnwood Council Tel: 01509 263151 · Planning · Street cleaning · Litter & dog poo bins · Anti-social behaviour Rothley Parish Council Tel: 0116 237 4544 · Play parks · Village Hall · Fowke St. Cycle Track · War memorial · Cemetery · Wildflower areas · Cross Green · Town Green An out of hours phone number is available should any emergency arise on Parish Council land.

Tel:07749 624211 Please note the following below: Persimmon Homes Tel: 0116 281 5600 Grass, bins, play areas on Charles Church / Persimmon developments are still the responsibility of both companies.

Thursday 30 November 6.00pm The event will be held on very similar lines to last year with local shops & community groups being Users who have hearing aids will invited to take part. be able to enhance the sound Many shops will remain open from talks, lectures, films etc by including the food outlets. Local setting aids to the T position. community organisations based Leicestershire County Council in Rothley will also be welcome The County Council hold liaison to have a stall to promote their meetings with parish councils & Trees & T.P.Os activity and so any local R.P.C. sends a representative.

R.P.C. has been asked by voluntary group or club who wish At the last meeting L.C.C. Leicestershire C.C. to remind to consider running a stall, focussed on climate change residents that when they are should contact the Parish items and explained that they considering doing work on trees Council (contact details above) that they are completely sure that were addressing the issue of King’s Coronation carbon savings with a proposal what they intend doing is correct RPC have decided to mark the to reduce street lighting from and legal. There have been a Coronation of King Charles III by Wm Davis Rothley Meadows 50% to 30% brightness from number of cases recently where upgrading the three wooden Tel: 01509 231181 8.00pm (currently the LED residents’ actions have been planters immediately outside the lighting reduction commences at Grass & verges, play areas and taken on trees that aren’t Rothley Centre and plant further litter & dog poo bins on the 10.00pm) permitted. Further information & trees on RPC land. Further Rothley Meadows Estate remain This will lead to a saving of 315 advice visit the LCC website information will be available in the responsibility of William https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk tonnes of carbon with savings of the next Rothley Post.

Davis. £500,000 and the proposal if /tree-preservation-order approved by full council will or RPC website (planning) come into effect by January 2024

SEPTEMBER 2023

Christmas Lights 2023

Town Green

THE ROTHLEY POST

Rothley Parish Councillors Andrew Brettle Hannah Feeley Mike Ferguson Roger Gross Graham Hall Percy Hartshorn Steve Mitchell Barry Simons Christine Watts Paresh Vaitha RPC Administration Parish Clerk: Gail Newcombe Senior Administrator: Sue Wyles Facilities Administrator: Vacant Caretaking staff Jenny Cornish Andy Hodgson

Noticeboard all details printed free Charnwood Orchestra is kicking off its 50th Anniversary Season with a fabulous concert showcasing the Orchestra - "Dreams and Serenades".

Saturday 21st October 2023 7:30pm Holy Trinity Church, Church Street, Barrow upon Soar LE12 8HP Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream Dvorák: Wind Serenade Op.44 Dvorák: Two Waltzes for Strings Op.54 Beethoven Symphony No.2 Where can I get a ticket get a ticket for this? www.charnwoodorchestra.org.uk email: tickets@charnwoodorchestra.org.uk Taylor’s Florist, 17 High Street, Barrow upon Soar LE12 8PY At the door, cash payments only Price? £14, (£12 concessions), £5 -18s and under or NUS members

Coffee Morning & Sale at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, Leicester LE7 7PR to be held on Saturday 21st October 2023 10am to 12 noon stalls to include Cakes, Handicrafts, Books, Bric A Brac, Greetings Cards, Gifts, Plants, Tombola Raffle Everyone Welcome £1 Entrance, to Include Coffee/Tea & Biscuits All monies to be used in research in Leicester University and University Hospitals

Charnwood Arts Society

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEPTEMBER 2023

Meets 7.30pm, Church Rooms Quorn.

Autumn Meetings: Thur 12th Oct: Conserving Books of the National Trust How old books of various construction and age are cared for.

Thur 9th Nov: They Make no Noise.

The Art of the Conductor How the conductor determines the direction of an orchestra.

Thur 14th Dec: The Curious History of Christmas Food How it's changed with illustrations from medieval manuscripts to 19th century prints Once again after a very successful show in 2022 Birstall Scouts & St James’ Birstall parish church are putting on a

Last Night of the Proms Show In aid of the church and the Scouts Saturday 30th September at 7pm doors open from 6.30pm Tickets £10 per head on the door or if you get them in advance £8 per person and £20 for a family of four

(two adults and two children under 12) We are proud to have the Bilton Silver Rugby Band to perform for us once again this year.

It will be all the familiar music and songs, and lots of flag waving If you would like tickets please phone the number below 0116 2674031 or 07842336745 Or from St James’ church office

Dementia & Support through Fellowship Talk by Louise Morse at Birstall Methodist Church Sat 23rd September 2023 10.30am to 3pm & also on ZOOM For details or to book a place contact: Charles Hilton Email: chashilton@me.com Tel: 0782 839 4276

cantankerous widower. Otto is continually disapproving of his neighbours’ ways, until a new family sees beyond his grumpiness. Will this unexpected friendship turn Otto’s life around?

“The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” will be shown on November 10.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost the usual £5, which includes a lucky prize draw and refreshments during the interval. You can pay for your tickets at the door, if there are any left, or buy in advance from: Richard 0116 2363 066 or Diana 0116 2362 619

chosen by his parents, she begins to wonder if she might have something to learn from a profoundly different approach to finding love

First Friday Film Club

to help support Rothley village Community Library?

We are still looking for additional volunteers. If you have a few hours to spare each week or fortnight please think about your local library. The Library runs entirely on voluntary help from a friendly and committed team. We are looking to increase the numbers of people we have to help during opening hours.

Friday October 6, 2pm Rothley Centre ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It’

Friday Night Films in Thurcaston “A Man called Otto” (Oct 13, 124 mins) Tom Hanks is one of our favourite actors. In our humorous October film, which was nominated for two Academy Awards, Tom Hanks plays a

Rothley Good Neighbours Scheme The scheme, which started in November 2018, has now in its 5th year responded to over 1,000 requests, mainly from the elderly, across Rothley and Mountsorrel.

The number to call for assistance is 0756 1596 873 and every attempt will be made to see if a volunteer can assist.

Have you any time

Continued on page 12 How do you find lasting love in today's world? For documentary-maker and dating app addict Zoe, swiping right has only delivered an endless stream of Mr Wrongs, to her eccentric mother Cath's dismay. For Zoe's childhood friend and neighbour Kaz,the answer is to follow his parents' example and opt for an arranged (or "assisted") marriage to a bright and beautiful bride from Pakistan.

As Zoe films his hopeful journey from London to Lahore to marry a stranger,

Woodcock

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11

Young children visit care home 80-YEAR-OLD Ruth Buckingham from Mountview care home in Rothley was taken back to her days as a primary school teacher when children from Charnwood Preschool in Mountsorrel came to spend time with the home’s residents.

with them.”

One teacher from the preschool said: “Mountview were so welcoming, and it was a great way for our children to make new links with the community. The staff and residents really made the experience special for the children – they have been talking about it all week!”

Encouraging intergenerational relationships, residents at Mountview care home are taking part in an ‘Adopt a Granny for Lunch’ initiative, where children in the community can enjoy a homemade lunch and fun activities with residents in the home’s lounge.

Stacie Weaver, the Home Manager at Mountview, said: “Our residents love to see the children in the community visiting the home, it always puts huge smiles on everyone’s faces.”

If you would like a child to take part in Mountview’s ‘Adopt a Granny for Lunch’ initiative, call 0116 303 3303 or email mountview@idealcarehomes.co.uk.

Coming together in the care home’s in-house café, the residents and school children decorated gingerbread men and enjoyed some homemade refreshments together.

Ruth said: ‘I was a teacher for ten years at a school in Kirkby Muxloe, where I lived at the time. I remember the children would get so excited to see me and run up to tell me things.

“It was lovely to see such excitement and joy on the children’s faces today, and we’re really looking forward to having a summer Teddy Bear’s Picnic

Cedar Care Circle Hi everyone. I hope you're all well.

The summer has been a little wet to say the least, here's hoping for a balmy September! Our next meetings will be on September 11 & 25.

Venue is Brunchies Café, Hallam Fields Road, Birstall from 1pm.

If you care for someone who has been diagnosed with dementia you will probably be feeling overwhelmed and possibly isolated.

24/7 caring takes its toll. Come along and chat with us. We all understand how frustrated and angry the situation can make you feel.

Enjoy a break, discuss how you feel, ask questions, between us we try to help. Lisa and the girls are so lovely looking after us. We are very fortunate to be able to get together in a social setting with all the amenities that the cafe provides. If you'd like to chat first call me on 07905760556, my name is Barbara.

Loughborough Concert Band presents

The Band Sounds Out at All Saints’ Church, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston Sat September 23 6.30pm for 7pm This year’s theme is music from films and television -something for everyone!

Tickets £10 (under 16s free) - includes a glass of wine (or soft drink) and light refreshments at the interval Please order your tickets from Jane

Westby 0116 235 2226 mowestby@virginmedia.com *

Birstall Flower Club Wed Sept 27, 2023 Birstall Village Hall 7.15pm Demonstrator: Lynne Sharpe Title: My Floral Gems Visitors £5 Queries to: Sylvia 0116 267 4206 or Carol 0116 267 1437 Want to help a Leicestershire charity send surplus medical aid to Africa?

Volunteer Treasurer Wanted Inter Care’s mission is to save lives and alleviate suffering through the provision of surplus medical resources to rural partner health units in sub-Saharan Africa. Our life saving work provides much needed healthcare goods and medicines to around 100 health units in Africa, while simultaneously reducing medical waste in the UK. We have a small dedicated team running the operations and fundraising, supported by a large number of volunteers. We operate out of an office and warehouse in Syston, Leicestershire.

The Role The role of Treasurer is key to ensuring Inter Care’s ongoing financial health. Working with our accountants and the General Manager, you will keep the Inter Care Board up to date with the financial position of the charity and be the key member of the Board accountable for strategic financial planning.

Time and location commitment is flexible, but expected to be about 10 days a year, with physical attendance at the AGM and some board meetings in Leicestershire required.

To find out more Contact Diane Hardy at diane.hardy@intercare.org.uk Tel: 0116 2695925

Cash awards for young THE JHMT - Inspire Awards small grants up to £500 to help young people aged 13 to 21 years old to fulfil their potential.

The awards are open to young people who live in Leicester or Leicestershire.

To be eligible for an award, you need to be: Preparing or training for a competition in a significant sporting activity recognised by the Trust or Pursuing a project to benefit your local community, or An artist or musician looking to develop your talent Who can apply?

Young people, aged 13 – 21, who live permanently in Leicester or Leicestershire.

A trust spokesperson said: “We know that young people are sometimes thwarted in their attempts to realise their ambitions. They might not get the financial support, expert advice or counselling they need.”

To apply, complete an online application form.

If you require further information regarding the awards or assistance in completing your application form, contact JHMT – inspire@jhmt.org.uk To find out more, go to: http://jhmt.org.uk/inspire-awards/

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Certificates and reports www.ples.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2023

Continued from page 13 Currently volunteer do so on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Training at a time and date to suit you.

Contact us via the email below if you are interested in volunteering or want more information info@rothleycommunitylibrary.co. uk

Pic: Ruth Buckingham with a visitor from Charnwood Preschool

THE ROTHLEY POST

12

Monday club

History society news main paths around the park were made wide enough for the wealthy to drive along in their carriages, but there was something for everyone to enjoy, including locations for archery, fishing and swimming in the river. The Victorians had a craze for all things Japanese – which also brought us The Mikado – On a showery evening in July, memand the Japanese garden still exists in an bers of the Society resisted the temptaaltered form. However, the American tions of the visiting funfair and we were garden has disappeared; I wonder what treated to an excellent tour of the park it would have contained?

by Blue Badge guide, Steve Bruce.

Later additions to the park include a In the hundred years to 1880, the bowling green, a miniature railway and a population of Leicester had grown sixsensory garden. The formal bedding fold, and the town (not yet a city) was scheme is still beautifully maintained, and its design is said to be based on the necklaces favoured by Princess Alexandra.

In the 1920s, the Earl of Dysart offered the Corporation another plot of land, this time on the west side of the river, which was the site of the old Leicester Abbey. A new bridge was built, and the extension to the park was opened in 1932, exactly 50 years after the original opening. It accommodated Pic: Leicester’s Abbey Park a new café, tennis courts and a cricket oval, which later became the site for the wealthy from the hosiery trade. fondly remembered Abbey Park Show.

Spinney Hill Park and Victoria Park Nothing now remains of Leicester Abbey already existed, but the Corporation itself, but low walls have been built to proposed a prestigious new “people’s mark its outline. Founded in 1150, at park” that would enhance the town and one time the abbey was said to be the provide green space for residents of the most impressive in the country after densely terraced housing.

Westminster.

The chosen site was on a marshy It was favoured as a place for clergy island between two branches of the to stop between York and London – the River Soar, which one critic described most famous of them being Cardinal as “dank, damp and diptherious”. NevWolsey, who died here in 1530 while ertheless, the Corporation bought 97 returning to London to be tried for treaacres of land from the Earl of Dysart son. A memorial shows the likely posiand ran a competition to design the new tion of his grave. After the dissolution of park. It was won by William Barron, the monasteries, the abbey’s gatehouse who created a layout full of sinuous was converted into a dower house for curves to make the most of the available the Cavendish family. It was, in turn, space. He successfully drained the land burned down during the Civil War but partially survives as a ruin. The walls of the abbey precinct are remarkably intact and it is worth admiring the decorative Tudor brickwork next time you are stuck in traffic along St. Margaret’s Way – or turning off to discover more of this fine example of Victorian civic pride.

There have been many touring theatre companies in the UK but probably only one actual touring theatre.

The Century Theatre has now come to rest in Coalville, where members of the Pic: Cavendish House in Abbey Park Society went to visit it in August. We by forming a boating lake in the centre, were given a warm welcome by knowlwith water levels balanced between the edgeable and enthusiastic volunteers, higher canal on the east and the lower who provided a talk, historic film, backriver on the west. stage tour and refreshments.

Barron was famed for his ability to Shortly after the Second World War, move mature trees and many of those in two men from Hinckley hit on the madthe new park were brought from the cap idea of creating a mobile theatre, grounds of the Corporation’s water which could visit provincial towns that works at Cropston. lacked a theatre of their own. It took The main entrance of the park was four years to work out the design, raise via a grand gateway on the newly confunds and complete construction but in structed Abbey Park Road. It was here 1952 the Century Theatre hit the road. that the Prince and Princess of Wales – The main stage and auditorium were the future King Edward VII and Queen carried on four wagons, accompanied by Alexandra – performed the grand open19 support vehicles that provided a ing ceremony in 1882 and enormous booking office, workshops, kitchen, crowds turned out to see them on the dining room, bathroom etc. In each processional route from the town centre. town the local council would provide a Alexandra also planted an oak sapling, venue, which might be anything from an which is now an impressive tree. The elegant park to a slum clearance site,

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEPTEMBER 2023

YOU PROBABLY pass Abbey Park whenever you travel into Leicester, but when did you last take time to explore it and how much do you know about its fascinating history?

Pic: The Century Theatre

ONCE AGAIN, The Blue Bell Inn at Rothley was the venue for the Monday Club’s Strawberry Tea in July.

and on arrival the whole travelling company would be involved in assembling the building – a complex operation for The weather outside was slightly coolwhich actors were not necessarily the er than we had recently been experiencideal workforce! The four wagons had ing, but the welcome within The Blue to be carefully spaced, jacked up to the Bell was definitely bright and cheerful. right height and aligned using in-built What better way to while away a couple spirit levels and cross-hairs. Then roof of hours in congenial company, whilst and floor sections were hinged outwards enjoying scones still warm from the oven to close the gaps, end panels were fitted with delicious jam and cream, as well as and the seating was ingeniously unfolded juicy strawberries? Cups of tea were into place. The theatre would put on plentiful, as was the supply of strawbershows for ten days then spend four days ries, provided by the attentive staff. packing up and moving on to the next The afternoon passed by swiftly venue. The wagons had a maximum amidst much talk and laughter! Sue Wakspeed of 15 mph and photos show the erley was thanked for having liaised with tricky task of manoeuvring them through the staff at The Blue Bell to arrange the town streets. event, which was enjoyed by all.

The theatre presented a wide range of In August, one of our club members, plays, from Shakespeare to farces. “Cor- Miss Adele Fricker, held the rapt attenonation Street” actor Eileen Derbyshire tion of a large group of ladies when she was among those who began her career explained some of the principles behind in the company. In 1975, changes in Indian Head Massage, demonstrating on road safety regulations made it impracti- some volunteers from the audience. cal for the wagons to keep touring so It is an interesting subject, that she the Century Theatre took up residence in has studied extensively. The basis of the Keswick, where Tom Courtenay, Derek massage lies in the centuries-old AyFowlds, Helen Mirren and Judi Dench all urvedic medicine from India, combined appeared on its stage. When Keswick with some elements from Swedish masacquired a permanent theatre in 1996, sage. An Indian gentleman called Narenthe Century Theatre was in danger of dra Mehta, who had been blind since being scarapped but Leicestershire Coun- childhood, had learnt the techniques in ty Council stepped in to buy it as a feaIndia, and later he took a course on ture of Snibston Discovery Park.

Reiki in England as well. He found that It was threatened again when the using a combination of the techniques Discovery Park closed but in the subsemade the benefits last longer. quent redevelopment of the site the The treatment can involve the use of theatre has not only been preserved but natural oils such as sesame seed, olive, a smart new foyer and bar has been added. It now presents a variety of films, Continued on page 14 music nights, comedy shows and other entertainments and is known for its Advertise in good atmosphere and friendly welcome.

THE ROTHLEY POST www.centurytheatre.co.uk 47 x 57mm £20 • 47 x 116mm £36 We now return to indoor meetings, 98 x 57mm £36 • 98 x 116mm £60 which are at 7.30pm on the third Tuesday of the month in Thurcaston Memori1) Decide what size you want al Hall. In a change from the published 2) Send us a sketch of your ad programme, our meeting on September 3) We design, publish 19 will feature Deborah Moxom, speakThis Siz ing about the Alexandra Bedspread and & send e Loughborough’s Grand Bazaar of 1923. you the Wednes Do join us then! The fee for visitors is bill +VATdays £4.

CALL 0116 4422067 for an advertising rate card, www.thurcastoncropstonhistory.org.uk

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13

Rothley Community Library: opening hours Mon: 2.30 – 4.30pm Tues: 2.30 – 4.30pm Wed: 2.30 – 4.30pm Thur: 10.00 – 12pm & 2.30 – 4.30pm Sat: 10.00 – 2pm Summer Reading Challenge for 4 – 11 ye ar olds.

IT’S NOT TOO LATE! There is still time to complete the Summer Reading Challenge and as a reward for finishing your name will be entered into a prize draw for some book tokens.

But hurry as the scheme will finish on Monday September 11, 4.30pm.

Book group September 13, 7pm. The Light Between Worlds by Laura Weymouth Yarn Craft Group This meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Bring your own Continued from page 13 almond or coconut oil. If a patient likes the scent of one of these, that is probably a good choice to use.

Miss Fricker demonstrated some ways of relieving problems such as headaches, earache, tinnitus, pain in the upper back, neck and arms, and even migraine by targeted massage of the head. Difficulty in moving joints, like shoulders and arms, can also be greatly helped. It relieves stress and is relaxing. It can remove “knots”. All the volunteers said they would probably sleep well afterwards. Men and women may react slightly differently. Some of the techniques can be done by the person themselves, although others require two people.

Most people prefer to wear lightweight, loose clothing for a massage, but variations are possible.

After the talk and demonstration, several people had questions for Miss Fricker, which she was very willing to answer. After we had enjoyed our refreshments, the meeting closed around 4pm.

Our meetings start at 2.15pm, on the second Monday of each month. On September 11, our Harvest Meeting will include a speaker from “Hannah’s Sugar Craft of Quorn”. One of our regular speakers, Mrs Felicity Austin, will entertain us on October 9 with her talk “Life in Jane Austen’s Time”, and on November 13, Mr Peter Savage will delight us with Part Two of his entertainment, “Do You Remember?”, where we can relive the joys of the music many of us love.

Membership for a year costs only £13, with an entrance fee of £2, and it is only £4 for visitors, including tea / coffee and biscuits or cake. New members and visitors are most welcome to meetings at the Church Room – just turn up on the day.

From Jenny Kennington and Maja Tompkns, the Monday Club – Cropston & Thurcaston

knitting, crochet or anything else ‘yarny’.

Help each other with those tricky bits.

Exchange ideas and knowledge. Have a cuppa and chat. £1 per person, payable towards running costs of the library.

Chess Club This meets every Thursday 2.30 – 4.30pm. Open to all, beginners to advanced.

LEGO Club Lego club is the first Saturday of each month, 2-4pm. Lots of Lego free-play, with like- minded playmates.

Under 5s sessions During term time there will be WEEKLY sessions EVERY TUESDAY & FRIDAY MORNING 9.30 – 10.30am. Stories, songs and craft! All welcome. No need to book. £1 per family. Term-time only.

Please note that due to the popularity of these sessions, parents are politely requested to only come to one session each week and not both.

Thinking of hiring a space?

The Library can be hired out when it is not open for public use. Already a number of local groups are hiring the space for their activities at very reasonable prices. Why not enquire next time you are in the Library.

Book Boxes Don’t forget the white RCL book boxes which are at many outdoor spaces have been cleaned restocked with children’s books so that children can access a book anytime they are at a park.

be repainted has been successful, and the external wooden panels were repaired and a fresh coat of paint was applied in July. We are very grateful to the County Council for carrying out this work.

Special events in September Outdoor screening

Fri September 15, 7.45pm at the Library Park, Mountsorrel Lane.

MOANA Tickets on sale only in the Library but hurry there are only a limited number available.

Prices £7 family ticket, Single tickets £2.50 Gates open from 6.45pm

Village Scarecrow trail September 23 & 24, 10am – 4pm Favourite Book characters theme Let’s try to make this an even bigger event than it was last year, when over Have you any time to help support 1500 people came to see the scarecrow our village Community Library? displays!

TO ENTER A SCARECROW & be inWe are still looking for additional cluded on the trail map, go to volunteers. If you have a few hours to www.rothleycommunitylibrary.co.uk spare each week or fortnight please or visit our Facebook page to comthink about your local library. The Liplete an online entry form. brary runs entirely on voluntary help Paper entry forms also available from from a friendly and committed team. We the library. are looking to increase the numbers of Saturday September 23, 10-4pm Vilpeople we have to help during opening lage Trail hours.

At the library: Currently volunteer do so on a weekly, • Scarecrow trail maps fortnightly or monthly basis. Training at • Craft activities for children a time and date to suit you.

• Table top sale £5.00 per table – Contact us via the email below if you suggestions –‘ Made in Rothley’ items are interested in volunteering or want e.g. handmade craft items, home-made more information preserves and jams; cards etc ‘ info@rothleycommunitylibrary.co.uk • Donated books sale Library repaint • Ice-cream and sweet stall A request to Leicestershire County • Refreshments Council, responsible for all external • Bottle Raffle – tickets available all items at the library, for the building to

Grassland in country park IMPROVEMENTS TO grasslands at Watermead Country Park are part of a three-year project to boost and enhance grasslands and wildflower habitats at three sites along the River Soar.

Leicestershire County Council is one of the key partners in the project, led by the Trent Rivers Trust. The project aims to create wildflower-rich grassland sites and other habitats that will provide foraging, breeding, and hibernation sites for pollinators, including bees, butterflies and moths.

Trent Rivers Trust secured £250,000 of funding from WWF’s partnership with Air Wick for the project, with £46,700 of that cash being received by Leicestershire County Council for environmental works in three areas.

At Watermead, the work involves the creation, enhancement and conservation of existing grassland and the restoration of neglected wildflower meadows across 4.7 hectares of the park, to create species-rich environments. The project has invested in new mowing and baling equipment to help collect grass cuttings and provided hand tools and support for volunteers to manage the grassland even more sensitively for insects and other wildlife.

In Quorn, the project is working with tenant farmers along the Soar catchment area to produce a conservation grazing plan for the land, including the restoration of wildflower meadows and grassland habitats.

The habitat enhancements are focused on an area which is important for agriculture and provides a vital habitat for bees and other pollinators. Revitalising and creating new insect habitats which can eventually join up to provide ‘bee corridors’ will allow insects to access more food and to be able to better move around for breeding purposes.

In Broughton Astley, a public space is being revitalised for nature, with the improvement of existing grassland and the introduction of more native plants.

SEPTEMBER 2023

News from Rothley library

weekend.

Many local businesses and food outlets open Sunday September 24, 10 – 4pm Village trail At the library • Scarecrow Trail maps • Ice-cream and sweet stall • Bottle Raffle • Refreshments • Scarecrow competition prize winners notified at 4pm There were 65 scarecrow entries last year for everyone to see – can we get even more this year?

How about holding your own small garden/yard sale alongside displaying your scarecrow?

Soar Valley Dementia Project Next meeting Tuesday September 26, 11- 12.30pm, Rothley Community Library.

THE ROTHLEY POST

14

15

River litter pick Pic: Runners taking part in the Watermead Challenge

Runners’ Watermead challenge OVER 370 keen amateur runners and fun runners took part in the 13th Watermead Challenge on July 4.

Organised by the Rotary Club of the Wreake Valley, the event saw the 5-mile traditional route around Watermead Country Park and the reintroduction of a 3-mile fun run.

Rotary Club Nigel Coleman said: “The Watermead Challenge is a big part of our calendar and once again we have been so well supported by the large number of entrants. Most importantly, we were indebted to the superb management of the event by our Race Director and his team of helpers.

“This year, we reintroduced the 3-mile fun run, and I spoke to several people

who said it was their first fun run and that it was a very safe and friendly atmosphere”.

The club always attracts a good field of runners from many local running clubs, and all the results can be seen on the Watermead Run Facebook page.

Nigel said: “A special mention goes to male runner Dan Hallam in a winning time of 25.53 minutes and female runner Clare Frankland in a winning time of 28.31 minutes.”

The event has raised over £4,000, and this will be used by the Rotary Club to support numerous projects locally, nationally and internationally.

“Big thanks to all the runners and to the many volunteers who made it all possible. See you all again in 2024,” said Nigel.

Rothley Park’s Harry celebrates graduation

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEPTEMBER 2023

ROTHLEY PARK Golf Club’s Harry Schiltz is celebrating his graduation as a fully qualified PGA professional.

Twenty-four-year-old Harry completed

the three-year course last month and is pictured at the graduation ceremony at Birmingham University. He said: “Despite the fact that I come from a family with no golfing background whatsoever, I was bitten by the golfing bug at an early age and was soon playing golf morning, noon and night during school holidays at my home club of Staverton Park in Northampton”.

By the age of 20 and playing off a two handicap, Harry decided that he wanted to develop a career in the world of golf and decided to pursue his ambition by way of the PGA pathway. He was appointed Assistant Professional at RPGC in 2019 and, in that time, has become a popular member of the Rothley Park professional team, in particular for his work with the club’s junior section.

Pic: PGA Professional Harry Schiltz

A VOLUNTEER group led by Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre (LOPC) meet monthly to pick up litter from the River Soar.

At their July litter pick, they filled 28 bags and recovered a fridge and a mountain bike.

A spokesperson for LOPC said: “We meet up once every month and spend half a day paddling along the river and picking up as much rubbish as we can in that time.

“We try to keep the river as clean as we can, and also collect litter from the banks and towpaths too. We welcome people who

said the LOPC spokesperson.

They added: “As you contribute to improving the environment for all users, we find our litter pick team enjoy a great sense of satisfaction from the positive impact made on the environment. At times we have literally collected a full truck of rubbish from the river in a

single session, which really makes you feel like you’re making a difference to the river environment.”

Over the past five years, the group has collected more than 17 skips worth of litter from the river and riverbank.

Upcoming Litter Picks Wednesday 13th September 2023, 6:00pm – 8:00pm want to walk alongside the river collectSunday 22nd October 2023, 12:30pm ing litter, while others can reach litter – 3:30pm from boats.

Saturday 18th November 2023, “This is a great opportunity to get out 9:30am – 12:30pm canoeing, meet new people and feel Saturday 16th December 2023, good about having a positive impact on 9:30am – 12:30pm our environment.”

There is a £3 charge to cover our Every year tonnes of rubbish is costs and purchase litter-picking equipthrown, dumped or finds its way into the ment.

River Soar.

How to get involved “As well as being a hazard to wildlife, You can book your space at it also completely ruins the place spoilwww.lopc.co.uk. ing what should be a pleasant place for Click on the “Individuals, Families people to come and enjoy, whether it’s a and Clubs” link canal boat trip, going canoeing or kayakTel: 0116 2681426. ing, or even a walk along the riverside,”

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Club’s talk on herbs through the seasons year’s programme. New members are made most welcome. What’s more, it’s excellent value! The membership fee is still only £12 for the year (pro rota) or £3 per meeting. So, if you are interested in gardening - come and give the club a try.

For more information about the club, contact Dave Haddon (0116) 235 9758: david.haddon20@ntlworld.com Or Richard Elks (0116) 236 8313: cropston161@hotmail.co.uk Future meetings Wed 20 Sept: Club Outing to Anglesey Abbey, Nr Cambridge Wed 11th Oct: Trees for Small Gardens, Ingrid Millington, Hill View Hardy Plants Wed 8 Nov: Winter in Bloom, Sam Hopes

THE THURCASTON and Cropston Gardening Club welcomed Malcolm Dickson from Hooksgreen Herbs to its August meeting.

Malcolm’s talk, ‘‘Herbs Through the Seasons’ was a completely new topic for the Club.

Malcolm started a small horticultural nursery on the 4 acres at Hooksgreen Farm in Cheshire selling a wide variety of plants. In 2004 he decided to specialise. He recognised that herbs were a popular product, being promoted in the media on the ‘ubiquitous’ cooking programmes and the grow your own gardening programmes, while herbal remedies were also becoming more popular.

The talk “herbs through the seasons” was about what he gets up to in the year starting in the winter and ending in the autumn. Malcolm also talked about the shows he attends, and which herbs look good and when.

Winter in the nursery is about producing the conditions that herbs will survive.

Herbs can cope with low temperatures, but not wet and cold.

Seeds are sown in plug trays so as not to disturb roots when potting on, otherwise plants may feel under stress.

Malcolm attended many RHS shows

Pics: (above & right) Peter Rabbit’s Herb Garden 2014. Chelsea Gold award

From Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club

Pic: Hooksgreen Herbs Nursery in 2021

throughout the year, starting with spring shows such as Cardiff, Harrogate, and Malvern. The nursery needed to produce big plants for displays and take a lot of stock for sale. Herbs taken to these shows included borage, many varieties of sage and mint, Agastache, caraway, pot marigold, and many others.

Other shows that Malcolm attended included Chelsea, Tatton Park, and Hampton Court. The nursery also attended the NEC Gardeners World show, which was also the most successful for selling plants. Plants for Chelsea included valerian, varieties of sage, thyme, bronze fennel, sweet rocket, sweet woodruff, lady’s mantle, and many others.

The nursery was awarded a number of gold medals, including the ‘Growing Tastes Marquee’ at Hampton Court Flower Show and in 2014, they were awarded an RHS Chelsea Gold medal for “Peter Rabbit’s Herb Garden” in conjunc-

tion with The World of Beatrix Potter from Windermere, Cumbria.

This was a very interesting talk, and members responded well to Malcolm’s relaxed style of delivery and anecdotes.

Malcolm also brought plants to sell, which were well received.

The Gardening Club meets in the Thurcaston and Cropston Memorial Hall.

Whether an experienced gardener or an enthusiastic beginner, we are sure you will find something of interest in this

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Come try the imaginarium into your head when you look at it?

Members volunteered to bring along three things: 1. A ‘story starter’ statement that we all will build on.

2. A portable item that has a story behind it for the rest of us to delve into and come up with our own interpretation.

3. A work-related story from our own experience.

Come to a meeting of ‘Imaginarium’ and tell us. Help to shape how storytelling and using your imagination can be fun!

Interested? Before becoming a Member of ‘Syston and District U3A’ you can enjoy a ‘Taster session’ of this group and one other from the diverse choice of groups on offer, or come along to our monthly meeting instead.

For more information on joining, and to contact any Group Leader, simply visit our website at www.systonu3a.org.uk From Syston and District U3A

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we reach adulthood, this ability remains but is dormant. Members of ‘Imaginarium’ experimented with stimulating the imagination using words and Do you remember listening as a pictures to set off flights of fancy. child to the tales told by older memAnother meeting introduced a Victobers of the family, or sitting with visitrian parlour game called ‘Myriorama’ ing friends at home and hearing stories which helped to move a story along. that captivated your attention and imagi- Given free rein, our imagination can nation? Has the art of storytelling been take us to some wonderful places prolost? viding lots of scope for development.

While some people enjoy writing, Stretching the imagination and storytellothers might like to express memories ing can be approached in many differand imagination in other ways. ent ways, and as a new group we’re With the working title ‘Imaginarium’, experimenting with a few of these to acquired from Walt Disney, I enjoyed see which works best at getting the many fascinating conversations with 'little grey cells' working. Using words, interesting people at the U3A ‘Open items and picture prompts, we develop Day’ in April, and a new group was stories from a few facts, which take us added to the variety of groups already to a new place where the current veroffered. We all have a story in us, and sion is all that matters. Starting with with the help of a few props at the first questions like, what do these characmeeting, I was delighted for them to be ters tell you? Where are they from, and shared irrespective of being true or what are their stories? Look at any false, as our imagination is a wonderful image or object and allow your imagiasset. nation to create a story around it. What Storytelling is something many of us does it say to you? What ideas come did with, and as, children. Often when

IMAGINARIUM. WHAT on earth is that I hear you ask? It’s just your imagination…

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