Rothley Post Jan 2010 (80)

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER Delivered FREE to Rothley, Thurcaston & Cropston

JAN/FEB 2010

ISSUE No. 80

Christmas lights switch on ALAN BIRCHENHALL was the VIP guest who switched on Rothley’s Christmas lights in November.

Pics: (top) Mark Chandler & ‘Elton John’; (left) Alan Birchenall & Percy Hartshorn, Chairman of Rothley Parish Council, switch on the lights; (far left) children from Rothley school performing

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 1

Children from Rothley school choir sang Christmas songs and danced, while Rev Mark Chandler and ‘Elton John’ provided more musical entertainment as visitors browsed in Woodgate’s shops.

The event was organised by Rothley shopkeepers in conjunction with Rothley Parish Council. Assistant Clerk Anne Harmer said: “I was thrilled to bits everyone turned out on such a crisp and cold night. The evening was a success with the shops doing good business.”

Four young people were presented with Sports Leadership Awards and Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards, achieved through the Rothley Youth Club. They were Jack Labbett, Max Morrell, Joe Stanway, Red Splevings and Emma Peasant

Conservation area proposal SEVENTY MEMBERS of the public attended a public meeting about the proposed Conservation Area for the Ridgeway, Rothley.

Rothley Parish Council invited Charnwood to begin the necessary steps for designating the Ridgeway area – the Borough Council have conducted an appraisal and organised a public meeting in November.

There are 36 Conservation Areas in the Borough of Charnwood. They are areas of special architectural or historic interest.

Conservation Area designation does not prevent change but is intended to help preserve and enhance the character of the area.

This is achieved by:

• stricter limitation on the extent of development that can be carried out without permission • there is a smaller limit on extensions and greater control over garden buildings and structures • trees are protected • demolition is controlled Conservation Areas can be further protected through the adoption of Article 4 Directions that control features such as doors, windows, chimneys, roofs, porches and exterior painting.

The roads covered by the appraisal are The Ridgeway, Westfield Lane from the Temple to the Station, Swithland Lane from the Station to the boundary with Mountsorrel, The Ridings,

Gypsy Lane and Brownhill Crescent.

The area is considered to be one of high quality housing, the result of a vision for a garden suburb which followed from the opening of Rothley railway station in 1899.

Charnwood is expected to make a decision about the designation in January 2010.

Cricket club winter nets ROTHLEY PARK Cricket Club winter nets have been announced for the pre season.

New players are welcome whether at senior or junior level.

Further information available from Martin Williams, Club Secretary on 01509 415580.

Winter Nets for Seniors are as follows: Monday: 8.30-9.30pm.

Start: Monday Feb 1. Finish: Monday Mar 29 Winter Nets for Juniors Under 11/under 13: Fridays, 2 nets, 8-9pm. Start: Friday Jan 15. End: Friday Mar 26 (11 weeks) Under 15/under 17: Wednesdays, 2 nets, 89pm. Start: Wednesday Jan 13. End: Wednesday Mar 31 (12 weeks)

Rates on the rise FORTY TWO per cent of household waste in Charnwood was recycled in 2008/09, compared to 39% in 2007/08.

The increase has been put down to a wider variety of items that are now accepted for kerbside recycling and the introduction of a single bag, reducing the amount of sorting done by residents.

Charnwood Borough Council say they aim to achieve a 45% recycling rate for 2009/10.

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 2

More homes planned A FURTHER 250 homes could be built in Rothley, south of Hallfields Lane on the site of Brookfields Farm.

Last Year Rothley Temple Estates received planning permission for 149 homes south of Hallfields Lane. They have now indicated an interest in developing a 22 hectare site on the western side of that development, providing up to 250 homes, “local facilities” and “informal open space”. 399 new dwellings would amount to a 25 per cent increase in the size of Rothley.

The Pegasus Planning Group, acting on behalf of Rothley Temple Estates, have asked Charnwood Borough Council whether they would need to provide an Environmental Impact Assessment with any outline planning application.

On December 23, Charnwood sent a reply to the Pegasus Planning Group indicating that a 22 hectare site should result in 660 dwellings given the government’s planning rules on housing density, and requested clarification.

The Borough Council also indicated that more than half of the site is in a Flood Zone and should be left undeveloped, and that a major transport assessment should be carried out to assess the impact on local roads.

Those objecting to the plans are concerned about flooding, congestion on local roads, pressure on local facilities such as schools and medical care, and the loss of character in the village.

The Chairman of Rothley Parish Council Percy Hartshorn said: “The Parish Council thinks we have had enough development in the village in the last four years, and we don’t need any more. The school is full to bursting, there are no medical facilities here and the proposed area is in a flood zone.”

Wanlip wind turbine PLANS FOR an 80 metre wind turbine on the edge of Rothley have been submitted by Severn Trent Water.

The turbine, which will have an 80 metre hub height and a height of 132m to the tip of the blades, will help power the Wanlip Sewage Treatment Works. For the past 12 months a 60 metre monitoring mast has been measuring wind speeds.

The proposed 3.4MW wind turbine, about one third the height of the Empire State building (381m), will generate 8.935 MWhrs per annum, enough electricity for the annual domestic needs of 1901 dwellings.

The location of the mast is within the parish of Wanlip, 300 metres east of the A6 at the point where the traffic filters left for Rothley.

MOT VEHICLE TESTING STATION

TESTING

PETROLS • DIESELS MOTORCYCLES CROPSTON GARAGE 37 - 39 Station Road Cropston, Leicester 0116 2362363 Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 3

To view the planning application go to www.charnwood.gov.uk. The planning application number is P/09/2402/2 Pic: a photo montage showing the proposed wind turbine from Rothley’s Town Green Street

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Mar 6.

The copy deadline is Feb 19.

Proposed access

NE LA

ROTHLEY PARK Cricket Club’s plans for vehicle access to their ground from Westfield Lane have been approved by Charnwood Borough Council.

The Council approved the club’s plans for a retrospective change of use from park land to parking area and the new access drive.

The route from the access to the parking area has been amended to avoid the root protection areas of the trees protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO). The ground will be protected by laying a plastic mesh over the grass in the field and parking area.

The application received seven letters of objection and 23 in support of the proposals.

The objectors were principally concerned about: • highway safety as the access is set on a dangerous bend close to a junction • the appearance of the park will be spoilt by cars • damage to trees caused by cars passing over roots The letters in support of the application

ANE IELD L

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MEMBERS OF all four churches in the village have been meeting regularly together for many years to pray for the work of the churches, and for various aspects of Rothley village life.

A number of residents in the village who don’t belong to one of the Churches have recently wondered if it would be possible to include their particular prayer requests. In response to this a telephone number and email address has been made available (see below) for anyone to leave a short message for a prayer.

Rob Gladstone, the vicar of Rothley Parish Church explained: “We would love to pray for, or with, anyone in the village who is currently going through a tough time. It could be a time of bereavement, an illness, loss of employment, a difficult family situation, or other personal difficulty. We believe God through his Son Jesus Christ is concerned about us all, he listens to us when we pray and in his love will provide comfort to those in need.

“If you would like us to pray for you confidentially, please leave a brief message with your name and contact number on 0116 230 2626 or email parishchurch@rpc.ctlconnect.co.uk and we will contact you”.

New access for club approved

WE

Prayer requests

Cricket Pavilion

Proposed parking area

emphasise the importance of the club to the local community and the need to maintain the facility in the village, particularly for children.

They state that the Town Green Street access is poor and unsuitable and that the proposed arrangements are a safer option, and provide for disabled access.

Rothley Parish Council supported the application, recommending some form of traffic calming near the access and that the fencing of the vehicle track is enforced so that vehicles are kept on the plastic mesh.

To view the council’s decision in full go to www.charnwood.gov.uk.

The planning application is P/09/1952/2

Rotary sleigh collection A BIG thank you from the Rotary Club of the Wreake Valley to everyone who contributed to our Santa Sleigh collection during December.

Money collected will be used to fund a range of local, national and international charities during 2010.

Many thanks also to the staff, management and customers of Somerfield in Syston for their contributions to our collection which will go to the same causes.

In 2009 good causes we contributed to included Life Education (a primary schools drug awareness programme in Leicestershire), a Summer Garden party and Christmas Carol Service for local senior citizens, provision of an adapted cycle for a disabled teenager, LOROS and Macmillan.

Rotary is an organisation for business and professional people. We meet weekly, on Wednesdays to socialise and plan fundraising activities. If you would like to find out more please call Chris on 07979 645605 or visit www.ribi.org.uk From Chris Battye Pic: The Rotary sleigh with local residents Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 4

Cubs’ global challenge BRADGATE CUBS helped spread some Christmas cheer by filling gift boxes for poor children in Eastern Europe.

19 cubs from the 77th Bradgate Group filled seven boxes with items such as hats, gloves, toys, sweets, drawing paper, toothpaste and toiletries.

Pic: Cub Leader Steve Baker, Assistant Leader Nick Shuttlewood and Mary Stait with the cubs.

Pic: Back row (l-r) is Andy Caunt, District Cub Commissioner and Steve Baker, Cub Leader. Front Row (l-r) is Callum Shuttlewood, Jack Sedgley, Matthew Baker and Matthew Ellison.

Challenge Badge for the term, with all 19 of them being presented with the Badge.

For four of the Cubs, the Global Challenge Badge was the final one of six Challenge Badges that the Cubs can be awarded, and by gaining their sixth award they have achieved the Chief Scout Silver Award, which is the highest honour that a Cub can receive. Callum

Cub Leader Steve Baker said: “It was part of the cubs Global Challenge task which makes the cubs think about others before themselves.

The Challenge Badge involved lots of different activities which included recycling old clothes, thinking of others less fortunate than themselves by sending shoes boxes for Samaritans Purse and an all term Challenge of collecting pennies for WaterAid in juice boxes where a total of £38 was raised.”

Mary Strait collected the boxes on behalf of ‘Samaritan’s Purse’ which distribute thousands of the boxes each Christmas. She said: “I would like to say a big thank you to the cubs as every box will appreciated by a child who won’t be getting much at Christmas.”

On December 14 the Cubs held their Christmas party and presentation evening for the term at their meeting place, Richard Hill School, Thurcaston.

The Cubs had been working on their Global

Marathon milkman KIRBY AND West milkman for Rothley Derek Poyser would like to thank his customers for their support with sponsorship for running the Leicester half marathon in October.

He raised £405 which has been doubled by Kirby and West and Derek will be presenting the sum of just over £800 to LOROS. Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 5

Shuttlewood, Jack Sedgley, Matthew Baker and Matthew Ellison were presented with their Silver Award by District Cub Commissioner, Andy Caunt on the night. Andy said: “There is a lot of work put in by the leaders to make the activities interesting and enjoyable for the Cubs and in turn the leaders are rewarded by seeing the Cubs gain the highest awards possible.”

Edwardian Christmas VISITORS TO the award winning Rothley station at the Great Central Railway travelled back in time to when the festive season was a simpler affair.

Their Edwardian Christmas event on November 28 invited guests to imagine it was 1909. Passengers were waiting for trains and their luggage to be loaded. A brass band played carols, mulled wine and the smell of roast chestnuts completed the illusion.

For once, the steam trains are just the set dressing.

Kate Tilley from the great Central Railway said: “Our Edwardian Christmas was so popular when we tried it last year. Under the gas lights of Rothley, watching characters in period costume, toasting yourself a teacake on an open fire, we think it’s as close to Christmas past as you can get. It’s a night out for all the senses”.

Pic: Sue Gilbert (left) & Wendy Ducksbury

Pic: a brass band playing carols at the GCR’s Edwardian Christmas event.

Monday Club’s charity donation MRS FELICITY Austin gave an extremely interesting talk on November 9, about “Life on the Home Front” during World War 2.

She presented herself dressed in the generally worn fashion of the times, plain but smart jacket, blouse, skirt and black shoes topped with quite a fetching little brown hat!

Felicity delivered her talk in a very factual way with humour and was able to display many artefacts she had collected over several years to enhance her subject A very happy afternoon was concluded with lustily singing “You are my Sunshine” and “Run Rabbit Run”.

Pic: Mrs Janet Till receiving a cheque from The Monday Club on behalf of "Bosom Friends"

Hazel Bloom won the free prize draw and before the meeting closed, we nominated the “Royal British Legion” as our Charity for 2010, having achieved the brilliant amount of £320.37 for “Bosom Friends” in 2009.

The closing of the year 2009 for the Members of our Club saw us enjoying an excellent meal at the Birstall Golf Club on December 14. The room at the Club was beautifully presented with a breathtakingly large Christmas Tree and colourfully decorated tables for the 78 occupants.

Having thoroughly enjoyed the varied menu offered to us, which was served piping hot with copious vegetables, we proceeded to the “business” of the afternoon in the way of the presentation of our cheque for £320.37 to Mrs. Janet Till representing the organisation “Bosom Friends”.

Janet gave us a brief but detailed account of the work they carry out on behalf of Breast Cancer patients and their families, in any way possible, to produce comfort, advice and a positive attitude for dealing with the illness. The Club was very proud to have achieved the aforementioned sum collected during the course of 2009, as this was in remembrance and tribute to a dearly missed member who passed away last year, Mrs. Rita Frith.

The entertainment which followed, was a hilarious talk on the “Legends and Traditions of Christmas” provided by Mrs. Margaret Harrison, a Blue Badge Guide from Nottingham.

Margaret concluded her talk and requested that we sing her favourite carol “Silent Night” which we did with very great enthusiasm, as we all knew the words!

In conclusion I would like to send to everyone in the villages our very best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year 2010 From Ann Farndon The Monday Club Anstey, Cropston, Rothley & Thurcaston

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 6

Ashton Green plans THE CONSTRUCTION of 3500 new homes on land west of Birstall could start in 2011, say Leicester City Council.

Outline planning permission for the Ashton Green development, an urban extension to the north of Beaumont Leys, will be submitted early this year.

The City Council held an exhibition of the proposals in November at the Beaumont Leys shopping centre and Beaumont Leys library, which was well attended.

One visitor to the exhibition was Kate Watson of Greengate Lane. She said: “We are very worried at the thought of extra traffic up and down Greengate Lane. It is already very busy at rush hour and school times. More cars coming over the hill could present a real danger to Highcliffe primary school pupils using the zebra crossing.”

Her husband Dave said: “One of the first parts of the new development would be an all-age school this side of Leicester Road. Can you imagine the extra buses and cars that

Pic: a detail from the plans would generate? If this development goes ahead there will be virtually no green space between Birstall, Ashton Green and Thurcaston, making it one big conurbation with Leicester.”

Leicester City Council say the development is needed to meet its target of providing

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 7

20,000 new homes within the next 15-20 years.

Providing an effective transport system and genuine transport choice from day one of the development is fundamental to the success of Ashton Green, say the City.

The two main points of access into the development will be via Bennion Road and Beaumont Leys Lane.

Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on November 16.

Two councillors had attended a Charnwood Local Policing Unit Open Evening and Cllr Olwen Jones had accompanied officers on patrol. She reported that the Police do respond to reports of isolated antisocial behaviour incidents if the public calls 222 2222 and they do log repeated incidents, but can only respond if they are reported in the first place.

It was agreed that signs outside Woodcock Farm, the Royal Oak, the Nail Shop, the Cob Shop, Mercury News and Santander all constituted an obstruction to pedestrians and Charnwood Borough Council should be asked to

look into their siting.

It was reported that a seat on Swithland Lane had been replaced.

Councillors considered the planning application made by Rothley Park Cricket Club for new access and parking arrangements. It was agreed 7 votes for and 2 abstentions to support the proposals subject to Rothley Parish Council recommending traffic calming to reduce speeding at the junction of Westfield Lane and Wellsic Lane and that Charnwood ensure that the proposed fencing along the traffic track is installed. It was reported that the Parish Council held many letters on file both supporting and objecting to the proposals.

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It was reported that safety fencing had been installed around the skateboard area on the Fowke Street playing fields. A funding application for a scheme of play facilities costing £50,000 would be submitted by the end of the month.

A full meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on December 21.

County Cllr Peter Osborne said that grant funding from the County Council will be hard to come by next year – projects for young people and crime reducing measures will get priority.

Borough Cllr Diane Wise reported that developers are looking at sites within the Borough for residential development including a 250 dwelling site off Hallfields Lane, next to the site for 149 dwellings that has already been granted to Rothley Temple Estates,.

Inspector Duncan Southall and PC Steven Rhodes attended the meting. Crime figures for the year 2009 were given (2008 figures in brackets) : burglary 31 (16), burglary other than dwelling 27 (36), theft from motor vehicle 17 (27), theft of motor vehicle 6 (2), damage 25 (75), theft 33 (29), misc 38 (54). Total 194 (252).

PC Rhodes reported that he was conducting vehicle speed checks as often as his duties permitted.

Insp Southall reported that crime has reduced this year across Charnwood. Criminals from Leicester and Loughborough were responsible for some of the crime in Charnwood and Insp Southall reported that eight people from Beaumont Leys had recently been convicted and imprisoned which had had an impact on the crime figures.

Insp Southall reported that the Quorn and Rothley beats are to be merged as part of a measure to reduce the total number of beats in the Charnwood area from 10 to six.

Rothley will continue to have the same level of policing cover as before, he said.

It was agreed to support the proposal to create a Conservation Area for Westfield Lane, Swithland Lane, The Ridgeway, The Ridings, Gypsy Lane and Plain Gate and to recommend that Charnwood incorporate an Article 4 direction to protect doors, windows, chimneys, roofs, hedges, porches and exterior painting. The vote was seven in favour, one against.

The Council agreed a precept for the year 2010/11 of £95,000, a reduction of £3,500 on the previous year.

The Council agreed to support a proposal from the County Council to revoke the no left turn into Howe Lane

from Woodgate and to recommend that the give way at the junction be removed, and that no parking spaces be lost outside Bradley’s as a result of any kerb/pavement modification.

The Council also agreed to support a county proposal to introduce a two hour waiting limit on the parking bays on Cross Green.

A FULL meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was held on October 15.

PC Steve Rhodes reported that police priorities are now assessed on a monthly basis, that an arrest had resulted in a four year prison sentence and that policing in the Bradgate Park car parks had resulted in a reduction in crime.

PC Rhodes’ attention was drawn to the matter of vehicles parking on Anstey Lane near the junction of Rectory Lane causing difficulties to motorists exiting Rectory Lane.

Two officers from Charnwood Borough Council’s Waste Management Team presented a report on street cleaning, recycling and refuse collection. Street cleaning is contracted to Serco. Litter bins in the parish are checked weekly.

County Cllr David Snartt expressed concern about the traffic implications of Leicester City’s Ashton Green development, as well as the reduction of green wedge and pressure on local schools.

It was reported that the County Council will reduce the severity of the slope on the traffic table on the Leicester Road, at the entrance to Thurcaston from Leicester.

It was agreed to increase the allowance to purchase and plant spring bulbs from £100 to £200.

It was reported that parishioners were complaining about dog fouling in Cropston, notably at Stamford Drive, Thistle Close and Station Road.

It was agreed to display posters on suitable posts and to give consideration to employing a dog warden.

A request from 16 residents of Cropston for a bus shelter to be sited on Station Road at or near the bus stop situated adjacent to the entrance to Guild Close, Cropston was before the council. It was agreed to consider the matter at the precept meeting and the clerk was requested to ascertain whether grants would be available.

The minutes of the November meeting were unavailable at the time of going to press.

Walking to school THE NUMBER of children walking to Rothley school is on the rise.

Rothley Church of England Primary school is one of several schools across the county participating in the County Council’s ‘Star Walker’ scheme. The scheme rewards children with a star every time they walk to school, and they can swap stars for rewards.

Rothley school has greatly reduced the number of children arriving in cars since the school introduced ‘Star Walker’ in May 2009. Prior to the start of the scheme 61 per cent of pupils arrived by car – this has been reduced to 13 per cent.

A similar picture can be seen at other schools in Charnwood : Newton Linford has seen the percentage arriving by car drop from 75 per cent to 28 per cent, while Quorn primary school has dropped from 53 to 18 per cent.

‘Star Walker’ is designed so that even children who do not live within walking distance of the school can participate – parents park at a designated spot outside the ‘Star Walker’ zone and walk for the rest of the journey.

Lesley Pendleton, County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation said: “The results of the Star Walker scheme are tremendous, and we are seeing an overall decreasing trend in the number of cars arriving at the school gate. This helps to reduce the problem of congestion and, hopefully, improves air quality in the vicinity of the school. Most importantly fewer car journeys improves the health and safety of our children.”

Following its success in the county, Leicester City Council are now considering introducing Star Walker into city schools.

Rothley burials ROTHLEY HERITAGE Trust has published its first book.

The Departure of the Dead tells the story of burials in Rothley from the prehistoric settlement evidence, the Saxon Burial Site discovered during the building of the Great Central Railway, the mediaeval period with documents telling us how matters of death and inheritance were dealt with and how Elizabeth I was responsible for the start of death registrations.

It relates how the cemetery on Mountsorrel Lane took nine years to develop up to the first burial of Fanny Taylor on September 2, 1904 and ends with a short history of Frank Sleath, the builder responsible for laying out the grounds and the building of the chapel.

This 124 page book with illustrations in a fascinating record of life in Rothley as well as death.

Copies available from Brenda Sutherland on 0116 2302766 or email brenda.sutherland1@nt lworld.com. Price £7 to include p&p or £6 at Rothley Post Office or Rothley Library.

Further detailed information on www.leocestershirevill ages.com/rothley Click on Village History to the right of the Home Page, then Local Publications.

AC

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BUILDERS EXTENSIONS ALTERATIONS & PROPERTY REPAIRS

( 2675658 Proprietor RMS Gibbon

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 9

History Society news AT THE November meeting two of our committee gave two very different short talks.

Frank Luce started this off with talking about a man who was at the same school - The King Edward V11 School in Melton Mowbray.

Frank gave us various clues to this mystery man: “Arthur”, until we had all guessed the better known name of the celebrity. Frank's mystery man was Graham Chapman, who qualified as a physician at St Bart's Hospital, but never practised medicine professionally.

He became much better known as a comedian, actor and writer, and one of the six members of the Monty Python comedy troupe.

Our second speaker was our Acting Chairman, Susan Joyce, who gave us a talk about Robert Bakewell, the 18th century agriculturist farmer who was born, lived and farmed in Dishley near Loughborough.

Probably his greatest claim to history was in the breeding of livestock. He started with the old Lincolnshire breed of sheep which he bred to be bigger but delicately boned and had good quality fleece and fatty fore quarters to suit the popular taste for fatty shoulder mutton.

With cattle, Robert Bakewell noticed that the Longhorn seemed to be the most efficient meat producers. They ate less and put on more weight than other breeds. He was thus able to improve their characteristics and his cattle

became fattier and more meaty. The Longhorns went out of fashion but some of the cattle breeds today are based on Bakewell's breeds.

What a delightful evening we spent at our Christmas meeting with our speaker, Mall Trott the Puppeteer.

Mal started by telling us how he got involved with the Art of Puppetry – when at the age of 8-9 he was fascinated with shows performed in his home town of Scarborough. His father made puppets for him and his mother sewed the costumes, so Mal got experience in both fields. By the age of 12 he was being asked by local hotels to put on puppet shows for their guests, for which he received, at that time, the princely payment of a 7/6d. Postal order.

After Mal had shown us his many and varied puppets, both hand and string, we were allowed to “have a go”. What a lovely session of fun that was and much enjoyed by everyone and no-one was afraid to try, even the shy little nine year old girl, Isabella, who seemed to be having a wonderful time trying virtually every single puppet. How very rewarding it was to see a young girl finding a new and absorbing activity.

We, at The History Society, hope that you have had a Very Happy Christmas and wish you all the best for the New Year, and look forward

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 10

to welcoming you in 2010, when we have a very varied list of speakers, at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, where our talks start at 7.30 p.m., on the third Wednesday of the month.

From Noreen Wilson, Rothley History Society OUR OCTOBER speaker was retired Blue Badge Guide for Leicestershire, Lynn Mellor, whose subject was a very entertaining “Basketful of Leicestershire Legends”, a sample of which will follow.

Lynn began by recounting how her love of history evolved and explained that, also, archaeology and English folk dancing are of particular interest to her. A treasured possession is a tea towel depicting traditional dancing, such as Morris dancing, sword dancing, the well-known Padstow hobby horse dance and the Abbots Bromley horn dance. It is recorded that local Morris men regularly danced for the Grey family at Bradgate Park.

Next came the tale of George Davenport from Wigston, who was apprenticed to a framework knitter, but he tired of the poor pay and working conditions and, sadly, turned to illicit means of acquiring money by becoming a “bowler” or “jumper” – a “mugger” in today’s parlance. Another ruse was to sign up for the army, for which new recruits were paid one shilling (known as “taking the King’s shilling”). George did this on many occasions, using different aliases, but of course failed to turn up to start his training, which was an offence against the law. After a very chequered “career” and various close encounters with the long arm of the law, his luck finally ran out and he was sentenced to hang at Redhill in Leicester. In that era, public hangings were the norm and, on the appointed day, thousands turned up to witness George’s demise.

Another story related to the Old Rectory at Swithland, where the Rector at the time was a widower with several children and whose eldest daughter took on the role of “mother” figure to care for the family. Unfortunately for his eldest daughter, her father employed, as a general handyman, a local man who was known to have bouts of drunken-ness which led to him becoming violent. The Rector and his family went away for a while and, when they were due to return home, he instructed his daughter to return first to prepare the Rectory prior to the arrival of the rest of the family. Imagine the horror when the Rector reached home with his younger children to discover his eldest daughter hanged and the manservant in the cellar with his wrists slashed. The daughter’s sad fate led to her becoming known as the “grey lady of Swithland”.

Jennifer Kennington The meeting on Tuesday November 17, 2009 began with the A.G.M, chaired efficiently

by Colin Revell. A presentation was made to Jo Elks on her retirement from the committee and to acknowledge her valued contribution, particularly her term as Chairperson. The customary reports were presented and, after some discussion, the members voted to accept an increase in the membership fee to £12.00 per annum from 2010 – visitors will pay £3.00 per person, per meeting.

Dorothy Budd spoke on the origins of Cropston Chapel. In 1850, a group of people

recognised the need for a place of worship in Cropston and, initially, a house was rented to establish a Sabbath School. Eventually, in 1860, land was obtained from Mr. Burchnall, who at that time was landlord of the Reservoir Inn (now renamed as the Badgers’ Sett), to enable the construction of a purpose-built Chapel. Also, the land to the rear of the Chapel was intended as a burial ground, but ultimately, was not allowed to be used for that purpose because of its close proximity to the reservoir.

The ensuing years saw many developments, such as the formation of a young peoples’ group in 1900, the provision of a baptistery in the Chapel, an extension in 1908 to create a schoolroom, porch and vestry and, in 1928, the Chapel was licensed for marriages to take place. Today, the Chapel is an integral part of Cropston, with weekly services taking place on Sundays and on all the days celebrating the main Christian festivals. The Chapel schoolroom is in regular use by the youth group and, likewise, is used by other groups such as the children’s playgroup and the ladies’ Monday Club. A coffee morning is held on the first Saturday each month and the premises also serve as a polling station for local and national elections as required.

The second speaker was Chris Miranda, who has recently retired after 35 years’ service to the local Guiding movement. We were told that, after its foundation, Scouting for boys had become well-established in our two villages, but it was not until 1960 that similar activities for girls were begun in Thurcaston and Cropston, with Mrs. Haddon starting the Brownies in January that year. There were 17 girls from each village. A Guide group was begun in 1963 and led for the next 2 years by Mrs. Lindsay, after which time, Mrs. Haddon took over organising the Guides and Mrs. Burle the Brownies. Naturally, over the years, leaders have come and gone, but both groups have generally flourished, albeit with the occasional fluctuation in numbers attending.

In June 2009, three of Thurcaston’s and Cropston’s Ranger Guides attended St. James’ Palace, London, to be presented with their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards, a magnificent achievement after three years’ hard work.

Irene Marriott and Chris Miranda accompanied the girls so that their contributions in supporting and encouraging the girls could be acknowledged. It is good to know that the Brownies and Guides continue to prosper and provide many interests for the girls of our community.

Finally, Brenda Hooper, who is also one of our Society Archivists, gave a fascinating account of the establishment and development of Richard Hill School in Thurcaston. It was in 1711 that the Rector at the time, the Rev. Richard Hill, began his mission to build a school for the benefit of the poorest children of the parish and his plans became reality in 1715, with the completion of a schoolroom and adjoining house for the schoolmaster. The first schoolmaster, William Tilly, was paid £11.00 per annum, £1.00 of which was given to the Rector in payment for rent – the schoolroom and house having been built on Glebe land (i.e. land owned by the church).

The remainder of the money was the schoolmaster’s for his role in educating 22 children! Records give considerable detail of the life of the school and particularly its

financial needs relating to repairs and teaching resources – nothing changes there then! In 1875 work took place to enlarge the classroom, plus, earth closets (toilet facilities) were located in the playground. By 1894 these same earth closets led to some very ill-tempered negotiations in order to get them re-sited further away from the school building because of their malodorous condition! Gradually, the school leaving age was raised and, by 1918, was 14 years of age. The 1930’s and 1940’s are notable for ongoing concerns regarding maintenance of the school, exacerbated by discord between the Headteacher, the School Trustees and the Leicestershire Education Authority! It was to the great credit of the Headmistress at the time that repairs were eventually expedited. As the 20thC proceeded, it became evident that the original school building was no longer completely fit for purpose and the new Richard Hill School opened in 1965. The Old School, as it became known, continued in use as the Infants’ School until 1979, at which time, the Schoolmaster’s house was sold and the Old School closed for educational purposes, but it continued to serve the community as a meeting place and polling station until the opening of the extension to All Saints’ Church in 2008, which incorporated a new meeting room (the Harrison Room). In the same year, the final closure of the Old School premises ended nearly 300 years’ association in the education of the children of the parish.

After the talks, there was an opportunity to view the many interesting items and memorabilia that each speaker had brought along relating to their subjects.

Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 19th January. Speaker – Robin Jenkins. Topic – “Fossils to Fosse Park”. Time – 7.30pm. Venue – Harrison Room, All Saints’ Church. Annual subscriptions will due - £12.00pp.

At our meeting on 16th February 2010 the speaker will be Michael Smith who will talk about the Great Central Railway, same time and venue as above.

From Thurcaston and Cropston Local History Society

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PHONE NOW ON 0116 2505842 Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 11

WI news NHW news & crime report

OUR AGM was held on Thursday November 5. The committee were re-elected to serve for another year and Mrs Daphne Grieff was again elected as president.

A dark December evening was brightened up considerably by our Christmas meeting.

The committed provided another scrumptious buffet and this was followed by entertainment from the Drama Group. Chris Miranda and Irene Marriott opened a box of memories from Guide and Brownie concerts past. Pauline Palin led the sing-song, which was followed by poems, a monologue and a mime performed

by Dorothy Budd, Barbara Newman, Pat Buckham, Daphne Grieff and Jackie Partner.

The hard work of everyone involved was very much appreciated and as usual an excellent evening was had by all.

Please note our annual Christmas Dinner will be held on Thursday January 21 at the Rothley Park Golf Club. Members should arrive at 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

From Benita Gettings, Thurcaston & Cropston WI

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Mar 6.

The copy deadline is Feb 19.

Crime Report : Rothley, Oct & Nov 2009 Robbery 1 (Rothley car driver pushed over and car stolen), burglary 4 (Whatton Oaks, The Ridgeway, Swithland Lane), burglary other 4, theft of vehicle 1, theft from vehicle 2, damage 6, theft 5 Crime Report : Cropston, Oct & Nov 2009 Drugs 1, Fraud 1 (2 men arrested for fraudulently collecting money on Station Road), burglary 1, burglary other 1, theft 1, theft from vehicle 1 Crime Report : Thurcaston, Oct & Nov 2009 Assault 1, burglary 1, theft of vehicle 1, theft from vehicle 2 A man was arRothley, Thurcaston & rested for burCropston’s glary and admitted PC Steve Rhodes nine offences in

Thurcaston & Cropston. He was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment. Two men have been prosecuted for stealing fish – both received fines. Two men were arrested for fraudulently collecting money in Cropston.

There has been one reported offence of vehicle crime across the five car parks at Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood compared with seven offences in the same three months last year. Two men were also found in possession of controlled drugs.

From PC 544 Steve Rhodes & PCSO 6678 Alex Foster

Trip to Commons LOCAL RESIDENTS are being given a unique opportunity to raise vital funds for a local charity while visiting a famous London landmark.

Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People are inviting people to take part in an organised guided tour at the House of Commons in London with all proceeds going towards supporting their ‘Building for the Future’ Campaign.

The tour has been arranged by Loughborough MP Andy Reed, a supporter of the hospice.

Speaking about the upcoming trip, Andy said: “People are always curious about what the inside of the House of Commons looks like. I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to see the historic building firsthand whilst raising money for a local charity.”

The trip, which takes place on Friday January 22 will offer a chance to explore some of London’s sights and lunch, before visiting the capital’s iconic parliamentary buildings.

Events fundraiser Nicola Adcock said: “This will be a fascinating and exciting day for anyone who has ever wondered about the goings on within parliament, and we are extremely grateful to Andy Reed for arranging this event for us. We hope that people will join us for what promises to be a very memorable day.”

Tickets cost £50 per person and all money raised from the sale of the tickets will go towards meeting the final £500,000 needed for a planned £4 million expansion for accommodation and training rooms at Rainbows.

For more information and to book your space, please contact Nicola on 01509 638 026 or Nicola.adcock@rainbows.co.uk Advertise in

THE ROTHLEY POST 53 x 70mm £20 • 53 x 142mm £36 109 x 70mm £36 • 109 x 142mm £60 1) Decide what size you want. 2) Send us a sketch of your ad. 3) We design, publish & send you the bill CALL for an advertising rate card, or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk (prices exclude VAT)

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 12

Energy savers

Pilbeam academy

Lighting dimmed

STONEHILL SCHOOL were winners in Leicestershire’s Big Switch Off week in October.

The week long campaign, led by ENABLE and local authorities across the county, aimed to encourage households, schools and businesses o switch off all unnecessary electrical appliances and lighting.

Stonehill were the winners in the secondary schools category, reducing their electricity consumption by 26kw or 0.62% compared to the previous week. The school has won a prize of a renewable energy education kit.

Pupils took on the role of Energy Detectives, helping to ensure lights, projectors and monitors were turned off and closing doors to save on heating.

Across the county, Central Networks recorded consumption as being 0.5% lower for the week, amounting to a saving of £50,000 for the week, equivalent to 195 tonnes of CO2.

Savings made in council buildings: • County Hall 5% • Leicester City Libraries and Leisure Centres 6.16% & 3% • Loughborough Town Hall & Council Offices 10.5% Chairman of Enable (Environmental Action for a Better Leicestershire) Prof Mike Preston said: “I am pleased to see that so many people took part in this year’s Big Switch Off. It goes to show that energy, and money, can be saved by taking a few simple measures. The actions we took during Big Switch Off week to save energy can be made on a day-to-day basis.

“If people remember to take simple steps as switching off standby buttons on TVs and computers, unplugging phone chargers which are not in use and switching off unnecessary lights in rooms that are empty, we will see a real difference.”

THE PILBEAM Academy of Dance have just completed a very successful year, with the third Exam and Medal session, on Sunday December 6 at the Rothley Village Centre.

The Examiner Miss Karen Yates (FDDA) and her assistant travelled up from Stourbridge to start a long day at 10am through to 6pm.

The session produced a lot of very good results, including five Special Commends, three Recommendations and no grades awarded were less than Honours. Some 53 entrants performed on the day, and the results obtained brought the year to a climax with all three Exam and Medal Sessions, producing over 15 special Commends, `Several Recommendations, and two senior pupils being awarded Scholarships.

At the end of the day, Mrs Antonia Pilbeam (FDDA), Principal of the Academy took the opportunity to present the Pilbeam Progress Cup to Miss Idolina Domingos of Cropston who has made remarkable progress through the year.

After 20 years of teaching in Rothley, the new term will start on Monday Jan 4, 2010.

There will be a few places available for new pupils in the new term.

SAVINGS OF £700,000 a year are planned by the County Council by reducing the levels of street lighting across the county.

The Council currently own and maintain 66,000 street lights and 12,000 illuminated signs. It now uses low energy bulbs when replacing street lights or installing new ones, reducing energy consumption by 30%. The council are also removing illuminations from signs wherever possible.

The council plans to dim some of the brightest lights on main roads between 10pm and 7am and to switch off some lights in rural areas or in other locations where there are no houses fronting onto the roads.

In consultation with local communities, the Council also intends to switch off lights in residential areas between midnight and 5.30am.

The Council say the measures will reduce CO2 emissions by 3,000 tonnes a year, a reduction of 23% of street light emissions, and save £700,000 a year.

A design and risk assessment will be carried out for every area in which changes are proposed. The plans are currently being developed and no specific decisions on which street lights will be affected has been made.

Baby signing class A NEW baby signing class starts at Birstall Village Hall on January 15.

Baby signing classes help babies to communicate with signs before they can talk.

TinyTalk Leicester is run by Heather Avul, mother to 28 month old Azad. She said: “I started to sign with Azad from day one but more so from when he was 4 months old and he did his first meaningful sign ‘more’ at 9 months. By 13 months old, Azad had a signing vocabulary of 15-20 signs with some of his favourites being milk, more, car, duck, bird & flower. I really feel that signing has helped us to avoid the frustration many babies feel when they try to communicate but we adults are unable to understand them.”

Heather’s Birstall class starts with a free taster session and runs every Friday during term time from 1.30-2.30pm.

For more details contact Heather 0780 0852443, heather@tinytalk.co.uk,www.tinytalk.co.uk.

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)

Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 13

WEA courses THE BIRSTALL and Rothley Branch of the Workers’ Educational Association offers three choices for spring 2010.

The English Country House This is our very popular Tuesday morning history class and enrolments must be made by post to secure a place. Please do not turn up at the first class as you could be disappointed!

Enjoy history with this popular tutor.

Tutor: Colin Groves Venue: The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

Date and Time: Tuesday 12th January 2010 for 10 weeks 10.00-11.30am Fees: £43.50 Concession A £39.15 (not available for those retired) B Free Afternoon Tai Chi This is a lovely way to keep your body supple or gently move those flagging knee and hip joints. The soft-flowing movements to quiet music promote stress reduction and well-being and this class is suitable for all ages and abilities. The tutor will be pleased to discuss the movements if you have doubts about your ability to participate in this enjoyable form of exercise. Beginners and those with experience will be very welcome.

Tutor: Laraine Tucker Venue: Birstall Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Date and Time: Tuesday 12th January 2010 for 11 weeks 1.30-3.30pm

Fees: £63.80 Concession A £57.40 (not available to those retired) B Free Art And Expressionism From El Greco to van Gogh to Jackson Pollock, this course explores the many and different ways art is deemed to be ‘expressionist’-art that is intended to move us, that raises subjective feeling over objective observation. No previous knowledge is necessary-just a lively, open-minded interest in art!

Tutor: Janis Baker Venue: The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

Date and Time: Wednesday 13th January 2010 for 10 weeks 7.15-9.15pm Fees: £58 Concession A £52.50 (not available to those retired) B Free For further information please contact Franca Freeman 0116 2362566 francafreeman@hotmail.com Postal enrolments to the WEA Treasurer John Laurance, 35 Seagrave Road, Sileby, Loughborough, Leicester LE12 7TN 01509 813005 Visit www.birstallandrothleywea.org.uk for an enrolment form or pick up a brochure from your local library.

The Workers’ Educational Association is a charity registered in England and Wales (number 1112775) and in Scotland (number SCO39239) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (Company Number 2806910.

Our Registered Office is at 70 Clifton St., London EC2A 4HB

YOUR SAY...

The Rothley Post welcomes your views and opinions on any subject. Letters, which must include your name and address, (though not necessarily for publication) can be posted to: The Birstall Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH, or handed in at Rothley library, Rothley Post Office, Woodgate or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Pavilion Does anyone have any photographs or information on the old wooden Rothley Bowling Club Pavilion which was destroyed.

I am not sure what year it was destroyed, but I think it was probably in the 1970s. Any photographs or information would be greatly appreciated.

Mrs A Mayes Tel: 0116 2302394 or email:ann_grahammayes@talktalk.net

Thanks May I through your columns offer a big ‘thank you’ to your readers for their generous contributions to our Santa collection once again this year Each year Soar Valley Rotary members accompany Santa around the local villages and at Budgens’ supermarket in Mountsorrel, collecting for our charity appeal. In this way, we are able to help many good causes including LOROS and Rainbows.

Those we visit donate generously and Santa’s sleigh is greeted with delight by young and old – indeed it is not always the children who seem most excited! This year was particularly noteworthy since, despite the difficulties of the credit crunch and the weather, we raised £5,109. You can find more about us at www.SoarValleyRotary.co.uk So our thanks once again to all who were able to contribute and especially to the Francis Motor Group, without whose support Santa would have had to rely on reindeer power alone.

We look forward to visiting you all again, next year.

Roger W Williams President – The Rotary Club of the Soar Valley

PILBEAM ACADEMY of DANCE Tel: 01509 816117 Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern & National for children from age 3.

Held at Rothley Village Hall, on Monday & Tuesday evening, & at Rothley Baptist Church, Woodgate, from 4.30pm on Wednesday All classes can lead to stagework, medals and examinations.

NEW PUPILS WELCOME

New Classes start Mon Jan 4.

Ladies Tap classes for experienced or beginners held on Mondays at 7pm.

JOIN US FOR FUN, EXERCISE OR EXAMINATIONS

Principal: Antonia Pilbeam F.D.D.A. Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 14

Mini fencing Lions auction bears CHILDREN CAN learn the sport of fencing at a new club that starts this month.

The Mini Fencing Club is for young people aged six to 10 and will be held at Burleigh Community College, Thorpe Hill, Loughborough. The 10 week course costs £25 and is on Fridays from 5.30-6.30pm. It starts on January 15.

To enrol call 01509 554400 or visit college reception.

Planning 7 Wellsic Lane, Rothley – Reduce the height of one oak tree Brookfields Farm, 5 Hallfields Lane, Rothley – Screening Opinion at land at Brookfields Farm 30, 32 & 34 Homefield Lane, Rothley – fell chestnut trees, 1 to front of No.30, 2 to front of 32 and 2 to front of 34 Homefield Lane White Gables, 14 Church Street, Rothley – fell 1 conifer and 1 cedar 30 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley – erection of conservatory to rear of dwelling 57 Woodgate, Rothley – pollard 1 willow tree 30 The Ridings, Rothley – erection of two storey extension to side of dwelling 97 Swithland Lane, Rothley – erection of two storey extension to front, side and rear and erection of entrance canopy to front of dwelling

AT THE Rothley & Soar Valley Lions’ Christmas Party held on Saturday, December 12 at Beedles Lakes Golf Club, Lion President (and LOROS Lottery collector) Norma Grimes introduced four very special bears who were looking for a good home.

These were Caring Bear, born in 2006, Thoughtful Bear, born in 2007, Friendly Bear, born in 2008 and Loving Bear, born in 2009. In each of those years their brothers and sisters had been offered for adoption by LOROS supporters who qualified by having supported the LOROS lottery for the whole year.

At the end of the auction which followed,

Longslade 50 LONGSLADE COLLEGE is celebrating its fiftieth birthday in 2010.

The college is looking for former students and staff who would like to take part in the celebrations or help organise them, by joining a committee to plan events across the year.

The college would also like to hear from you if you have any photographs or memorabilia.

Contact Melody Mitchell at mrsmmitchell@longlsade.leics.sch.uk or phone the college on 0116 2677107 and leave your details

103 Station Road, Cropston – single storey rear extension, front porch and internal alterations to ground floor 201 Leicester Road, Thurcaston - erection of single storey extension to front, rear and side of dwelling 173 Station Road, Cropston – erection of extensions to side and rear of dwelling and associated works 47 Latimer Road, Cropston – erection of 1st floor extension over garage to side and canopy to front of dwelling

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 Rothley library or Rothley Post Office on Woodgate.

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.

AIRPORT CARS Birstall. Airports, Seaports, Long Distance, Courier. Tel: 0777 1984806 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 Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 15

raising £55 for LOROS, all four bears went, together, to a very good home, where one lucky little girl about to be born will have four lovely furry friends to welcome her into the world.

Increase your income MANY PEOPLE in the East Midlands who are entitled to a cash increase in their income are missing out simply because they assume they are not entitled to Working Tax Credit (WTC), says HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

HMRC have set up on online calculator enabling anyone who thinks they might be eligible for WTC to quickly find out for sure whether they are likely to be entitled – and by how much.

The average amount of WTC unclaimed is £1,600 a year so some people will qualify for significantly more.

Working Tax Credit is payable to people who are in work and on a low income, and you don’t have to have children to qualify. In 2007/08, £720 million was paid out to claimants of WTC without children.

Anyone with queries about tax credits can check online at www.hmrc.gov.uk/taxccredits or, to make a claim, call the Helpline on 0845 302 1415.

Noticeboard all details printed free Coffee Morning at The Methodist Church Howe Lane, Rothley On Saturday March 6 10-11.30am Proceeds in aid of Loughborough Street Pastors Raffle, Tombola, Cake Stall, White Elephant etc Entrance 50p •••

Loughborough Farmers Market Devonshire Square, Loughborough Between 9am and 3pm Every month Next markets Jan 13, Feb 10 Wide variety of local produce: meats, sausage, bacon & cured meats, rare breed meats, meat, savoury & fruit pies, fruit & vegetables inc organic, plants & flowers, herbs, therapeutic herbal products, honey & beeswax products, chutneys & pickles, jams & preserves, homemade cooking sauces, wholemeal flour, muesli, fruit juices, eggs & cheeses, bread & cakes.

To book a stall or find out more call Markets and Fairs team 01509 634624, email: markets.fairs@charnwood.gov.uk or log on to www.charnwood.gov.uk ••• Birstall Methodist Church Saturday March 27 10am-2pm

Film Presentations ‘The Boat that Rocked’ Friday Jan 22 (104 mins) They say that laughter is good for us.

January’s comedy is the high-spirited story of how the world was changed by rogue disc jockeys who broadcasted from a boat in the middle of the North Sea. The songs they played united and defined an entire generation and drove the British Government crazy. This film features an unbelievable selection of music

Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office 0116 236 7626 or at the door.

••• The next in the series of

Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr will be held in the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley on Thursdays Jan 7, Feb 4 and Mar 4 commencing at 7.30pm

‘Creation’ Friday Feb 19 (108 mins) Based on the biography of Charles Darwin’s great, great grandson, it recounts the relationship of Darwin with his daughter Annie as he writes the ‘Origin of Species’. Having just returned from the Galapagos Islands, Darwin feels a rift with his wife, Emma, concerning their Faith.

With great soul-searching, the manuscript is finally completed and Emma packages it up for the publishers.

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £4, concessions £3.50. Price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw.

Table Top Sale Tables @ £10 Contact Mary 2672606 •••

Praise Party Organised by Rothley Parish Church for children in Years 1-6 Rothley School, 5.30-7pm on Saturday January 16.

The Praise Party will be a fantastic event, with music, games, dance, drama, storytelling, teaching, puppetry etc on a Christian theme.

To book a place for your child or for any further details, please contact Alison Godfrey 0116 212 8552.

•••

Topic: Real World Fat Loss Seminar – The Truth About Fat Loss Real life strategies reinforced by the latest scientific research to help you drop fat fast.

Date: Wednesday January 27 Time: 6pm Venue: Old School Rooms, School Street, Rothley, Leics LE7 7RA ••• Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council Rothley Post JAN/FEB 2010 (80), page 16

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson Editorial/Advertising (Tel & Fax)

0116 2674213

Correspondence, news etc can be handed in at: Rothley Library, Rothley Post Office or to our office in the Youth Centre, Longslade College, Birstall editor@birstallpost.co.uk