Rothley Post (90) Sept 2011

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

SEP/OCT 2011

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 90

Gang invade home A GANG of men broke into a Cropston home, assaulted the occupants and stole cash and jewellery before fleeing in the victims’ Range Rover.

Babington Court garden impresses BABINGTON COURT in Rothley has won a prize in a garden competition.

The sheltered home for elderly people on Woodgate received third prize in Charnwood Neighbourhood Housing’s annual garden competition.

Residents Dorothy Webster, Tony Church and Don Mclugash are the green fingered trio of residents whose efforts impressed the judges.

Dorothy said: “We’ve tried to make a cottage garden with flowers and hanging

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Resident Brian Smith said: The garden is beautiful, I like to come and sit here when the weather’s nice.”

Mrs Bessie Grindrod and Mrs Patricia Talbott agreed, saying: “It’s wonderful and has given us such a lot of pleasure.”

Pic: (l-r) Tony Church, Dorothy Webster and Don Mclugash

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The incident happened at approximately 9am on Thursday July 21, when three men entered a house in Station Road.

The men demanded that the occupants hand over any money they had in their home. Shortly after the men left the house and drove away in the victims’ red Range Rover. They drove along Station Road before leaving it in Templar Road, Rothley where it was located later that day by police. Also taken in the burglary was a quantity of cash, a number of watches and some jewellery.

Both victims, a man aged 64 and a woman aged 40, received injuries to their face and body and were taken to the Leicester Royal Infirmary. They have since been discharged.

Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident to call them immediately.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Steve Winterton, said: “We have been carrying out a number of enquiries since the incident happened including extensive house to house enquiries. We are now hoping that our appeal will encourage others to come forward who we haven’t yet spoken to.

“The two victims were assaulted in their own home and had some of their valued

Continued on page 2

2

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

Continued from page 1 belongings taken, this isn’t something that they will forget easily. I would like to urge anyone with anyone information, even if it seems irrelevant, to call us as LIFE BESIDE the sea was explored by soon as they can. It may be that you live in the area and saw someone acting suspi- local scouts on a trip to Hunstanton in July. ciously prior to the incident? Or maybe you were approached by the woman asNine scouts from the 77th Bradgate saulted who asked you for help following Scout Troop based at Richard Hill the burglary? If so please get in touch.

School in Thurcaston together with scout “We believe that the suspects got into a leader Steve Baker visited the East Coast second car at some point between Station town. Steve said: “The trip was organRoad and dumping the Range Rover in ised to give the scouts a different enviRothley. We would like to appeal to anyronment to explore for their Naturalist one who thinks they may have seen the Activity Badge.” change over to give us a call.”

During their stay they visited the local Anyone with any information is asked Sealife Centre where they had a talk to contact DC 740 Steve Winterton on about the rock pool creatures found Leicester 0116 222 2222, follow the inalong the beach between Hunstanton structions to leave a message for a police and Heacham and were able to touch officer and when prompted key in the the crabs and starfish. officer’s identification number 0740. AlterThe highlight of the trip was a Sunday natively, contact Crimestoppers, which is morning visit to the Hunstanton Lifeboat free and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

Station were one of only four Hovercraft lifeboats in the UK is stationed.

Steve said: “As they arrived, the scouts were lucky enough to be able to see the hovercraft in action as the crew PRUNING • CROWN RAISING were bringing the vessel up from the SECTIONAL DISMANTLING beach after their morning exercises.

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After a tour of the station, led by the Station Operations Manager, Mr Robin Rafferty, the scouts assembled in the Hovercraft boathouse, where Harry Gilmour and Thomas Davis were invested by their leader as new scouts following their progression into the section from cubs. After the ceremony Robin presented the pair with their Certificates of

Investiture. Steve said: “It was a complete surprise for the two of them and something for them to remember in years to come.”

Pis (left): Scouts looking on as the Hunstanton Hovercraft Lifeboat is brought up to the boathouse by the crew. Above: Harry Gilmour (centre) and Thomas Davis (right) being presented with their Certificates of Investiture by Hunstanton Lifeboat Operation Manager Robin Rafferty

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THE ROTHLEY POST

3

SEP 2011

House Building a future for orphans burgled POLICE ARE appealing for public help after a car was stolen from the driveway of a home in Rothley.

The incident took place sometime between 11.30pm on Friday July 15 and 9.30am on Saturday July 16 in the Rothley Road area, close to Whatton Oaks, when a house was entered and a number of items were stolen including the keys to a Skoda Fabia.

The grey Skoda Fabia has the registration number CA57 WEL and was parked on the driveway. Other items stolen included an apple iPhone 3, a Sony Playstation 3 console, a 42” LG plasma TV, an Apple iPad and various console games.

Detective Constable Kerry Washington is investigating the incident, she said: “We would appeal to anyone who has come across the stolen vehicle either parked or being driven around the area to contact us. A number of items were stolen during the incident and there’s a possibility that the offender may have tried to sell the items on. Have you been approached by someone selling similar items in suspicious circumstances or do you know someone who has acquired any of the items? If you can help with any aspect of the investigation then please get in touch. Any calls received will be treated in confidence.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC 4442 Kerry Washington on 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number 4442. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers which is free and anonymous on 0800 555 111

A GAP year trip to Africa has been a life changing experience for a young woman from Rothley.

Alice Pulford (21) went as a volunteer teacher to Malawi in 2007, on a five month placement teaching English, Science and PE to 175 schoolchildren.

Four years later she has successfully funded, built and is now managing an orphanage.

Moved by the plight of the children orphaned by the Aids epidemic and witnessing first hand the precariousness of their life, on her first visit she became involved with the local ‘porridge fund’. cation and a stable life.

This distributes government oats to comThe Tilinanu charity also finances a munities threatened by starvation. porridge fund to feed 175 children a day.

On a second trip in 2008 to one of Alice says: “Their weight, height and the villages, Tilinanu, the idea of comhealth are monitored regularly and it’s pleting a half constructed church buildfantastic to see the benefits and change ing into an orphanage was born, and it can make to the child with a stable with the support of friends and family, and consistent meal.”

Alice began organising fundraising events Alice has just graduated from Liverto raise the £6500 needed for the pool John Moore’s University and is project. about to start a Masters degree in Social A year later the orphanage at Tilinanu Work – she spends all her vacation time was opened and is now home to 36 girls, in Malawi. a safe haven where they have food, edu-

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Pic: Alice Pulford at the orphange

She added: “The ultimate goal is to help and guide this community to stand on its own two feet and help provide for the children within it.”

Alice has been supported by her sister Nina and her mother Yvonne, owner of Latimer Design on Woodgate, who have all worked at the orphanage and been instrumental in the continuing fundraising.

To find out more about the orphanage and future fundraising projects go to www.lovetilinanu.org.uk

“At Community Forum Budget workLEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY Council is shops later this autumn, these ideas making £320,000 available through the network of 25 Community Forums will be prioritised for a share of the funds. Before that, there will be a for local communities to invest in chance to view the project proposals projects of their choice. and to make your comments and sugResidents and community groups can gestions.” get directly involved and put their To find out more about how you project ideas forward, comment on other proposals and vote on their favour- can get involved, please visit www.leicestershireforums.org/cfb.html ites. or call 0116 3057034.

A spokesman for the County Council The next Area Forum meeting for said: “If you have an idea for a project this area will be held on October 3 at that will benefit and improve your local Birstall Village Hall at 7pm. All resiarea and your community, now is the dents are invited to attend. time to submit a Project Proposal Form.

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THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on July 11.

It was reported that there were no reported burglaries either to private dwellings or outbuildings in Rothley or Swithland in June.

Following residents’ concerns about ground levels being created on the Brookfield Farm site, Cllrs Peter Osborne and Diane Wise met with an officer from Charnwood’s planning department and some residents. Residents are concerned that some of the new properties will look

straight into Hallfields Lane properties.

There are further concerns that water from the site may flood adjacent properties.

The planning officer agreed to ensure that these concerns were addressed by the developer.

From April 1, 2012, Leicestershire County Council will charge Rothley Parish Council £350 pa to host its website.

Over the past few months, Rothley Parish Council and Mountsorrel Parish Council have been jointly looking to develop a plan of acceptable and non acceptable develop-

Patron: Nicky Morgan MP

2011 - 2012 Calendar of Meetings: Palmer Tomkinson Centre at Longslade Community College (Licensed Bar) Time 7.00pm - 9.00pm

ments in the area over the forthcoming decade and to prepare a ‘wish list’ of community needs. This Neighbourhood Plan will be a part of local planning restrictions, once agreed by the community.

It was agreed to apply for £5000 of funding to progress the plan from the County Council’s Big Society Fund, with each parish council agreeing to provide £2500.

It was reported that Charnwood Borough Council have not responded to a request for a meeting regarding the Brookfield Development balancing pond.

The Parish Council has received emails regarding the public use of the tennis courts. Under the terms of the lease between the Parish Council and Rothley Ivanhoe Tennis Club, the club is obliged to maintain two courts for public use. These are available until 6pm on weekdays unless needed by the club, which needs to be notified on the club notice board.

Mr Barry Simons has been co-opted onto the Council to fill a vacancy.

A full meeting of Rothley Parish was held on July 15.

Cllr Peter Osborne reported that he expected informal discussions have or will take place between developers Charles Church, the Borough and County Councils regarding a new application for Brookfield Farm. Plans for 170 homes were refused earlier this year.

Following a letter from a resident to

Stephen Dorrell MP and correspondence by him with the County Council, the Parish Council is asked to consider installing additional street lights on Westfield Lane.

To provide lighting to a standard that the County Council would assume responsibility for would cost £100,000. It was agreed that such costs could not be justified.

It was agreed to install a Ragtex clothes re-cycling bin on the Rothley Centre car park which will generate some income for the Parish Council.

A diseased maple tree on the Fowke Street playing field has been felled.

No minutes of Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council were available at the time of going to press

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Service to Poppy appeal recognised 2012 Theme: Self-help and daily living Wednesday 14th September: What is Arthritis & how it affects daily living: discussion (facilitator- Sonal Godhania) Thursday 22nd September: Wii for all: e-sports4arthritis at Peepul Centre 4-5pm (every fortnight) Thursday 29th September: Computing for Beginners: e-learning4arthritis 3.30-4.30pm (every fortnight at PTC) Wednesday 12th October: World Arthritis Day Palmer Tomkinson Hall: Community Services for Children, Young People and Families with arthritis: GPs, nurses and pharmacists welcome: Refreshments Get Online Week 17th - 23rd October Clash Get Online Day, Fri 21st Oct. Wednesday 9th November:

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

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

Committee meeting (review drop-in)

Wednesday 8th February:

AGM

Wednesday 14th March:

Diet and arthritis (facilitator- Sonal Godhania)

Wednesday 11th April:

Pain and arthritis Drugs and arthritis (facilitatorSonal Godhania)

14th - 18th April Arthritis Awareness Week: Local arthritis awareness week Wednesday 9th May:

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Monday 12th - 18th May - Adult Learners Week Friday 18th May - Clash Silver Surfers Day Wednesday 13th June:

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Wednesday 11th July:

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Wednesday 8th August:

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A SPECIAL awards ceremony was held at the Rothley Court Hotel when long serving members of the Rothley and District RBL Poppy Collection Team had their long term service to the branch recognised by the Royal British Legion.

Mr Peter Osborne, immediate past Chairman of the Leicestershire County Council and who has this month taken over as Poppy Appeals Organiser for the branch, made the presentations to the collectors.

Mrs Ann Harmer of Rothley and Mrs Katherine Geary of Thurcaston, both received a certificate for 10 years service as a Poppy Appeal Collector.

Two other awards to Mr Brian Preston and Mr John Philips, both of Rothley, could not be made on the night as both were indisposed. Mr Preston’s award was also a 10 year certificate and Mr Philips a special badge as a collector with 15 years service.

Finally, and with great applause, was the presentation to Mr Norman Latham of a badge and a fourth bar to his long service medal. Norman has just stood down as Poppy Appeal organiser to the branch after 50 years of service. Mr Peter Osborne who has just taken over from Norman remarked on his outstanding service during which time he has organised the collection of over £120,000 for this very deserving cause. Mrs Meg Hendry, branch chairman, and all at the presentation wished Norman a long and happy retirement from the many facetted aspects of the position he has relinquished but he will still be a treasured member of the branch.

Pics: Peter Osborne making presentations to (from top)Mrs Ann Harmer, Mrs Katherine Geary & Mr Norman Latham

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

5

Making your home stand out HOME STAGING and makeovers to suit all tastes and budgets are offered by Rachel Lyndon of Colour Creators.

Police office opens in Rothley Centre ROTHLEY’S POLICE officers now have a local base.

PC Stephen Rhodes and PCSO Nigel Ritchie now have a permanent office in the Rothley Centre on Mountsorrel Lane, where they start and finish their shifts, do administration and send and receive emails.

PC Rhodes said: “This is proving very effective as myself and Nigel now work permanently from here, occasionally using the offices at Newtown Linford and Thurcaston.

“Starting and finishing at Rothley in-

Youth worker ROTHLEY PARISH Church has appointed a youth worker.

Tom Brewster (23) is a Ministry Assistant with particular responsibility towards 11 to 18 year olds within the church and the community.

Tom is married to Ruthie who is undertaking post-graduate medical training in Leicester.

Tom and Ruthie both studied music at The University of Manchester and Tom has recently completed projects with young people in Manchester and London.

Details about the future plans for young people in Rothley will be announced shortly, says the church.

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creases our presence in the village which benefits both residents and the police.”

The move comes following the closure of Quorn Police station and the room at the Rothley Centre is provided free by Rothley Parish Council.

Chairman Percy Hartshorn said: “We now get much more of our officers’ time in the village and it has definitely increased police visibility.”

Pic: PCSO Nigel Ritchie (left) and PC Stephen Rhodes in their Rothley office

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THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

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

PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN

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

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

Pic: (l-r) Nicola Schofield, Charles Parket, Ruth Johnson & Pamela Frost

NHW news & crime report Plans refused

THERE HAVE been a number of burglaries in nearby villages during the past few weeks where entry has been gained to houses via rear patio doors which have either been smashed or forced to gain entry.

So please review your home security

paying particular attention to how someone may gain access to the rear of your property. Keep blinds or curtains closed, or partially closed, and keep valuables such as ipads, MP3 players and games consoles out of sight.

There have been five burglaries in Cropston between July 1 and August 12.

Two were on Station Road, two on This-

tle Close and one on Leicester Road.

Enquiries are being carried out on all of them to try and trace those responsible.

We ask members of the public in the area to be vigilant and report any suspicious persons or vehicles, and to consider extra security measures such as alarms, security lights and good window/door locks.

A home on Oakfield Lane, Rothley was burgled on July 15/16. items stolen were a Skoda Fabia from the driveway, an Apple iphone, a Sony playstation console, a 42” LG plasma TV, an Apple ipad and various console games.

Crime Report, Rothley, July 1 – August 12:

Burglary 2, theft 3, A quantity of lead was stolen from bay windows on Westfield Lane and on Templar Way cash left out for the milkman was stolen. Burglary non-dwelling 1 Crime Report, Cropston, Jun 1 – Aug 12:

Damage 1, burglary non-dwelling 1, burglary 5, theft 1 Crime Report, Thurcaston, Jun 1 – Aug 12

Theft 3, damage 1 From PC Steve Rhodes

PLANS FOR the erection of five dwellings and the conversion of farm buildings to two dwellings on Town Green Street have been refused by Charnwood.

The applicant was Mr Anthony Cooper and the proposals were for Park Farm, 81 Town Green Street.

Charnwood said that the proposed development would be over dominant within a Conservation Area, and would be harmful to the setting of the adjacent listed buildings.

Charnwood also said the vehicular access lacked adequate width and visibility and would be a source of danger to highway users.

Details of the application, P/11/0666/2, can be viewed on Charnwood’s website.

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

The Council which already hosts a farmers’ market on the second Wednesday of each month, is now set to trial a second market on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

The trial will start on September 28 for three months, and, if successful, could see the second market open for business on a permanent basis. It will also feature green and ethical products and Fairtrade stalls to help promote locally grown and produced goods.

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

THE ROTHLEY POST

7

SEP 2011

WEA Charity Kart racer’s record courses cricket THIS YEAR’S charity cricket match at Rothley Park Cricket Club is to include George Line took the a number of basketball players from lap record for Junior The Leicester Riders.

Rotax at PF InternationRob Paternostrom, Barry Lamble and al Race Circuit in July, Tom Shirlock all bring height and depth a venue for major Euroto an All Starts XI captained by former pean and British events.

Leicester City player Matt Elliott. Scott Oakes, Leon Lloyd and Tim Stimpson The record had stood for three years. together with other Leicester Tigers George (16) is a student at Longslade players, will be up against a full strength College, fitting in his studies with a busy Leicestershire County Cricket Club XI calendar of British Super One National captained by Claude Henderson, in this Championship race meetings. He says: his testimonial year.

“It is a wonderful reward for all the Proceeds this year will be shared hours of practice and racing to know between Rainbows, LOROS and the devel- that my name is in this very special opment of junior cricket at Rothley Park karting record book.”

Cricket Club.

George is the Intrepid Karts team The event takes place on Sunday driver, racing with Langford Line MotorSeptember 4 from 1.30pm, Westfield sport.

Lane, Rothley LE7 7LG. Admission £5 with children under 13 free. Pay on the The next issue of day. There will be free parking, a BBQ, THE ROTHLEY POST bar, raffle and inflatables. will be published on Nov 4.

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THE BIRSTALL & Rothley branch of the WEA is offering the following courses this autumn.

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

Booking essential.

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

Venue: The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Monday 1.15-3.15pm. 10 meetings from 19th September AFTERNOON TAI CHI The soft flowing movements of Tai Chi promote health and mental focus and one posture of the 24 sequential movements is taught each week. Beginners and those with more experience are very welcome. Please wear loose clothing and flat-soled shoes. Booking essential.

Tutor: Laraine Tucker Fee: £80.40. Discounted £72.40 (not available to the retired) or Free.

Venue: Birstall Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS Date: Tuesdays 1.30-3.30pm. 12 meetings from 20th September CUBA TO CHINA: art from around the world.

Explore some of the most fascinating art and artists from a range of other cultures-from Cuba, via Canada and Russia, to China. No previous experience necessary. Booking essential.

Tutor: Janis Baker Fee £60.30. Discounted £54.30 (not available to the retired) or free.

Venue: The Rothley Centre (as above) Date: Wednesday 7.15-9.15pm 9 meetings from 21st September BRITISH MONARCHS: from Elizabeth I to Elizabeth II The pomp and circumstance of modern British monarchy owe a great deal to traditions passed down in an (almost) unbroken sequence since the mid-16th century. Buts its survival has resulted from the ability of monarchs to recognise and adapt to changed circumstances. This course will illustrate the changing nature of monarchy by an examination of the individuals who were monarchs during this period. Booking essential due to limited places.

Tutor: Aubrey Newman Fee £50.25. Discounted £45.25 (not available to the retired) or Free.

Venue: The Rothley Centre (as above) Date: Tuesday 10-11.30am 10 meetings from 20th September Further information from: Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 or vincent.mbe82@yahoo.co.uk Franca Freeman 0116 2362566 francafreeman@hotmail.com Postal bookings to Mr. J. Laurance 33 Loughborough Rd., Hoton, Leicester LE12 5SF. Cheques payable to WEA Birstall and Rothley Branch.

A THURCASTON kart racer has broken a speed record.

8

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

Visit to secret garden & annual show MEMBERS OF Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club enjoyed a visit to a ‘secret’ garden in Leicester.

Yards from a very busy main road with non-stop traffic thundering past, completely hidden from view behind a tall hedge and modest dwelling, is a secret garden; which members of the gardening club were privileged to visit for their first summer outing.

Ten years in the making from an overgrown field and a design ‘on the back of a fag packet’, this is the most stunning garden.

The garden incorporates strong design features and bold hard landscaping creating different and distinctive ‘rooms’ in a plot of about an acre. Members were delighted at many of the features, for example, a wildlife pond, connected to a natural stream, which attracts a kingfisher on a regular basis, and other water features including a reclaimed fountain.

They were also very envois of the three greenhouses where most of the plants are grown from seed, including

the contents of the well stocked vegetawelcome to enter – for the competition, al Hall in Thurcaston. Or contact Dave ble garden. An impressive pergola is a Haddon the show secretary on 0116 235 or just for fun. Doors open to the public central feature that links many of the to look around at 2.30pm 9758. rooms together. The garden owners, From Richard Elks This an OPEN show and everyone is Jackie and Gary made us all very welcome and were most generous with their hospitality. This was a most delightful evening visit.

The Gardening Club Show: Saturday September 3, 2.30pm Go to any proSWIMMING CLASSES for babies and toddlers are coming to duce show and you Queniborough and Shepshed, with new classes starting will overhear remarks like “I’ve got this month. one better than that at home” or “mine are better than that”. On September 3 Puddle Ducks was hatched in 2001 you have the chance to prove it at the and is a fun and friendly swimming Thurcaston and Cropston Annual Garden, programme offering unique baby swimCraft and Produce show at the Memorial ming and toddler swimming classes.

Hall, Thurcaston. The closing date for A spokeswoman, Liz Gabriel, said: entries is 11am on the morning of the “Classes are packed full of activities to show. develop water confidence and swimSchedules of classes with full details on how to enter are available from Brookside Nursery in Anstey, Tebbutts Electronics in Thurcaston, Bradley’s supermarket in Rothley, and the Memoriming skills with lots of music and rhyme, its flexible design means you can join at any age from 0-4 years. Children learn lifesaving, swimming and underwater skills and in all swimming classes learn to swim without armbands and with grace and efficiency.”

To join in the fun and BUILDING MAINTENANCE book a free trial class call Liz on 07906 191 504 or HARD & SOFT LANDSCAPING email: & FENCING etc nottinghamshire@puddleduck INTERIOR & EXTERIOR s.com or visit PAINTING www.puddleducks.com for more class information 0116 2303222

Swimming classes for babies

Ian Roe General Building

07847 003554

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

9

Exhibition praised Free solar panel assessment

AN EXHIBITION staged by Rothley Heritage Trust was recognised at this year’s Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Heritage Awards.

The exhibition was held in the Old School Rooms in July 2010 as part of the Festival of Archaeology and received a Highly Commended award at a ceremony at Snibston Discovery Museum, where the Chairman of Leicestershire County Council Jackie Dickinson presented the awards.

She said: “I’m delighted with this year’s awards, not just for the winners, but for everyone who entered as the standard was so high. The entries reflect the very high interest across Leicestershire and Rutland in our local history and heritage and our strong museum culture.”

The principal award of Museum of the Year went to the Sir John Moore

DAVE MITTON Electrical Ltd of Burton-on-the-Wolds is offering homeowners in Rothley, Cropston and Thurcaston a free assessment and site survey on the latest Solar Photovoltaic Systems.

Foundation, Appleby Magna.

Pic: Rothley’s Archaeological Warden, Brian Verity, with the award

Thurcaston free bus pass THURCASTON PARENTS are celebrating after being told their children will get free bus passes to school.

Earlier this year, the County Council decided that the route between Thurcaston and Longslade College was less than three miles, the distance above which free bus passes are provided.

Letters were issued to parents advising them that their children would not be entitled

to free transport but could pay £400 for an annual pass,.

Now the County say they have done an assessment of the route and consider it “not a suitable walking route because of the narrowness of the footway approaching the railway bride on Greengate Lane.”

About 15 families have now been notified that their children will receive a free bus pass after all.

Spokesman Ben Mitton said: “If you have a home, office or factory with a southerly facing roof you may well be able to earn between £700 and £1,400 each year, tax free, thanks to a government guarantee. However, this guarantee will not be as generous next year, so we are recommending acting now to take full advantage”.

He added: “The amount of savings to your electric bills by fitting solar panels has recently been highlighted in the press as being wildly inaccurate, the truth is you will save money, but by how much will depend on a

number of factors. We can give you a very good guide when we undertake the free assessment. It is true to say by generating your own electricity there is less need to worry about the predicted increases over the next few years and you do get paid for any surplus electricity you generate”.

Dave Mitton Electrical is a family run company trading for over 25 years and fully accredited to install Solar PV systems. Free assessments can be arranged by calling 01509 889096

10 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

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

Rolls Royce The Rolls Royce Retired Employees Association was founded on February 23, 1951. The aim of the Association was “to provide social intercourse by means of concerts, outings and exhibitions of arts and crafts etc to give Rolls Royce Employees an interest following their retirement”. This aim still holds good today with concerts at the Rolls Royce Leisure complex on Moor Lane in Derby outings this year to date to Woburn Abbey, Llangollen, Port Sunlight, Marsh Farm, Love Never Dies and trips planned to Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Llandudno and Bruges .

One of the highlights of this year will be a “Last Night of the Proms” on October 21 at Rolls Royce in Derby: watch the press for more details.

With many ex-employees living in the Loughborough area who worked at the

Phase Arts Theatre School Are you aged 7-21?

Enjoy Acting Singing & Dancing?

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

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

Mountsorrel factory until its closure in 1994 and many people being transferred to Derby and Hucknall the Association is keen to encourage new members from this area.

We hold a monthly get together at Rolls Royce Leisure on the second Tuesday of each month at 1pm where you can meet up with ex workmates and enjoy a drink and a reasonably priced light meal.

Anyone interested can contact me on 0116 2106917 or by email: patrick.neal7@ntlworld.com Patrick Neal

Embroidery You may not realise this but the Leicestershire Branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild has been in existence for over 40 years and was the first branch to be set up in Leicestershire and Rutland.

We are a friendly group of mainly ladies who share a common interest in textiles which include hand embroidery, machine embroidery, papermaking, feltmaking and textiles from other countries. This year we have had speakers on machine embroidery, goldwork, embroidered gloves, hand-made paper and ‘talking felt’. Workshops have included postcards for the 2012 Olympics and a Japanese designs day, In October we have a Sculpting with Silk dayschool and a Christmas self-help day in November.

We have a speaker on the second Saturday of each month, excluding August (2.00 for 2.30pm) and 4-5 dayschools a year (10am-4pm). We meet at Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone, Leicester and there is on-site car parking. We have an extensive library and sales tables for members’ use.

Our next meeting is on September 10 when we will also be taking our subs for the year. Please come along and see what we have to offer, our visitor’s fees are £4.50 but if you would like to join after the meeting, this will be refunded.

For further information please ring me on 0116 2890206 (after 6pm) or email: rita-yeo@virginmedia.com Rita Yeomans, Chairman

Noticeboard all details printed free Rothley History Society Wed Sept 21, 7.30pm Spkr: Diana Courtney on Richard III Oct 19: Janet Courtney: Cities on the Silk Route Adm £2 for members, £3 non-members Visitors welcome •••

Have you any unwanted knitting wool?

Would you like to let us have it for our Samaritans Purse Shoebox Appeal We have ladies knitting hats and scarves to send out to the children at Christmas but are struggling for knitting wool.

If you have any could you please contact Daphne on 2675721 or 07971721927.

Thank you •••

Fosse Co-op Camera Club Leicester We meet at St Peter’s Church Rooms, West Holme St (off Hinckley Rd) each Friday at 7.45pm from Sep – May We are a very friendly club who welcome people of all standards. We are always looking for new members and you are invited along to any of our club evenings to meet us.

We can offer tuition in the use of the camera and also editing in Photoshop and Elements by prior arrangement If you would like more details, or a copy of the programme, please contact: John Walters 0116 2992230 emailjohn.walters8@ntlworld.com or Mary Staps 0145 5820439 •••

St James Gospel Choir Come and Join us and have fun – no auditions!

Meeting on the 1st and 3rd Fridays at 7.30pm, St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall 1st practice is Friday September 2 ••• Tea, cakes and sale of second hand books at St Leonard’s, Main Street, Swithland

Saturday and Sunday, September 10/11 2-4.30pm (donations in aid of church funds) Come and join us on our last Open Church for this year Thank you all who have made these weekends so successful •••

Coffee Morning At Rothley Methodist Church, Howe Lane Every Tuesday morning, 10-11.30am come rain or shine Friendly atmosphere, everyone welcome Tea & Coffee and biscuits or toasted tea cake Proceeds for the Methodist Church ••• Save the Children Please come to the

Coffee Morning at The Methodist Coffee Shop, Wanlip Lane, Birstall on Saturday October 30, 10am to 12noon Various stalls •••

Syston Band Invite you to a free

Concert in the Park Sunday September 18, 3-4pm Central Park, Syston Why not bring a picnic and enjoy a traditional family Sunday afternoon ••• Calling all Brass Players

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

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

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

Mountsorrel Book Club

Limited ½ price trial classes in September

Charity Coffee Morning

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

All proceeds to Air Ambulance Saturday September 10 From 10am to 12noon Room above Mountsorrel Library The Green, Mountsorrel (lift access available) Cakes, books, raffle, local produce, sales table, bric-a-brac Entry £1 inc refreshments Please come and support us ••• Friends of Bishop Ellis Primary School Present

Tim May Services

A Ladies Evening of Beauty Therapies and Shopping Fitted Kitchens, Bathrooms & Bedrooms. Supplied and Fitted or Fit Only Call for a free no obligation quotation

0116 2301324 www.timmayservices.co.uk

at Bishop Ellis Catholic Primary School, Thurmaston (opposite Asda) Friday, September 23, 7-9.30pm Stalls include mini treatments by Ragdale Hall and other beauty therapists, plus Lanza Hair, Zumba demonstrations, jewellery and gift stalls, plus much more Tickets: in advance £3.50, on the door £4

THE ROTHLEY POST

Price includes a complimentary welcome glass of Pimms or fruit punch For further details on purchasing advance tickets contact: Maria on 07875979058 or Susan on 07733310294 or soc_0537@yahoo.co.uk Event is ladies only •••

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

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

The Charnwood Forest

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

Syston Band Open Evening Monday September 19 from 7.30-9.30pm Brookside Club Syston Want to learn a brass instrument but don’t know which one? Then come and try them all out Looking for a new band? Come and see what we have to offer Used to play and thinking about starting again? Then we’re the band for you Syston Band is throwing open its doors to invite you to an open evening Members will be on hand to answer any questions you might have If you play already why not bring your instrument (or we will lend you one) and have a blow?

Who are Syston Band? We are a small, friendly and informal brass group with players of

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

· · ·

all ages. We practice on Monday 7.3010.30pm (beginners 7.30-8.30) and Thursday 8-10pm at Syston Brookside Club Details: 0116 2609310 or 2675823, email:tubdennis@aol.com or systonbandmail@yahoo.com Or just come along on the night – players of all ages and abilities are assured of a warm welcome •••

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

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

Annual Garden, Craft & Produce Show Saturday September 3, 2.30pm Thurcaston Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane All welcome •••

Film Presentations From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council ‘Another Year’ Friday September 9 (129 mins) This British comedy drama about ordinary people stars Jim Broadbent and Ruth Sheen as geologist and medical counsellor. The story spans the four seasons of the year on an allotment, showing the comical life and reactions between family and friends.

‘Burke & Hare’ Friday October 14 (91 mins) This is a true story set in 1820’s Edinburgh.

Starring Bill Bailey and Isla Fisher, it is a black comedy about two grave robbers who find a lucrative business providing cadavers for Edinburgh University Medical School, but events become quite complicated.

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £4.50 and concessions are £4. The price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw.

Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office, 0116 2367626 or at the door ••• Celebration of the 400th anniversary of

Coffee Morning

The King James Bible

at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Saturday October 29 10am to 12noon Cakes, plants, gifts and jewellery (new & second hand), toys, tombola, raffle, books, bric-a-brac and Phoenix Cards Everyone welcome – come along and get some early Christmas presents. Entry £1 to include unlimited coffee and biscuits In aid of Cancer Research UK •••

At St Peter’s Church, Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel Saturday September 10 10am to 4pm Readings, Bell Ringing, Organ Music, Choir Children’s Activities: Competitions, Quiz, Colouring, Craft and MORE! Tea/coffee and cake, BBQ, Displays and Stalls Something for everyone!

•••

Thurcaston Toddler Group

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

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

•••

We are a friendly parent run informal Toddler Group that opens its doors every Tuesday from 9-11am (during school term times) for children from birth to 5 years. Children get to play with different toys, do a craft activity and have a snack and a drink as well as so-

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

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

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

Gas Boilers, Fires, Cookers Installation, Service, Repair Plumbing Services

For a Friendly, Reliable Service Call Kristian on: 0790

cialising with other children. Parents/carers can make themselves a drink have a chat and get a change of scene for the morning!

Feel free to drop in and give us a try, admission is £2, even if you have more than one child.

We are based at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston LE7 7JA •••

0888984 or 01162 106740

25, Whatton Oaks, Rothley, Leicester, LE7 7QE

SEP 2011

11

The next in the series of

Charity Whist Drives Organised by Derek Farr will be held in the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Thursdays Sep 1, Oct 6 & Nov 3 Commencing at 7.30pm, admission £2 ••• Saturday November 26 10am to 2pm at Birstall Methodist Church Wanlip Lane, Birstall

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

R.E. MILLS SERVICING, MOT & CLASSIC CAR SPECIALIST MOT

TESTING

VEHICLE TESTING STATION

Servicing & Repairs to all makes & models MOTs • Bodywork Electronic Diagnosis Leaded 4*

RE Mills Motor Engineer

Jazz at St James!

34-36 Town Green St Rothley LE7 7NU

0116 2302295

GREENGATE MEDICAL CENTRE www.greengatemedicalcentre.co.uk

FREE FLU VACCINATIONS We are delighted to announce that we have set up our flu vaccination clinics starting early October 2011 If you fall within one of the "at risk" categories, and you are registered as a patient with us, you are entitled to a free vaccination DON'T WAIT: Please call the surgery on 0116 267 7901 to book your appointment The At Risk categories include: All patients aged 65 and over • Pregnant women Patients under 65 with a chronic health condition eg: Diabetes, Asthma, COPD etc If you are unsure whether you qualify for a vaccination or not, please contact the surgery for advice

12 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

Life on the farm Living & working at Brookfield AS YOU drive down Hallfields Lane in Rothley many people hardly notice the farm gate which leads to Brookfield Farm. There has been a farm on this site for many years, long before many of the houses which now make up the village of Rothley.

Today Bill and Sarah Wright live at Brookfield Farm on Hallfields Lane. In this and future issues of the Rothley Post, Sarah will be writing about life on the farm:

From the middle of July until approximately the end of September life at Brookfield Farm revolves around the harvest.

The weather forecast, both short

Pic: Eric Wright servicing the combine harvester range and long range, becomes all important, and although farming methods have changed dramatically over the last 100 years, as always the weather holds the key to a successful harvest.

Before the harvest beings, the corn sheds have to be cleaned and treated for pests, tractors, trailers and the all important combine harvester have to be serviced and prepared for action. At Brookfield we always employ a few extra staff over the harvest period to help with the movement of the grain.

The oilseed rape is the first crop to be cut. This year the yield seems to have been particularly good and the unusually dry spring appears to have suited winter planted oilseed rape.

The wheat harvest follows on and this crop relies more heavily on the weather being dry, as the combine harvester is unable to cut the crop if it is damp.

The combine harvester is a very sophisticated piece of machinery. It is run on a satellite navigation system whereby once a straight line has been established in a field it can steer itself. It also has a yield mapping system, also operated by satellite. This enables us to see which parts of the field have had the highest yield, and can produce maps for future reference. This information can be used to establish the fertiliser requirements for the following season.

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 ÂŁ7.25hr, plus travel expenses. Telephone essential. Ring Debbie between 8.30am & 4.30pm for more information on

0116 2696247 (quoting reference BP) Help At Home (Egerton Lodge) Ltd

If the grain is too wet it has to be put through the grain dryer. About eight years ago we installed a new, quieter grain dryer which we positioned so the noise would be deflected away from the village, as in wetter seasons it runs 24 hours a day. The dryer can use up to

3,000 litres of diesel a day in a wet season.

Closely following the combine harvester is the straw baler, and this straw is sold for animal bedding, or in some cases for use in power stations.

Immediately after the field is cleared of straw bales, the main cultivation tractor starts the process again for the following harvest by cultivating the land ready for the new seeds to be drilled.

The grain is stored at Brookfield and sold. It is then moved at various times during the year. I am sure many of you will have seen the large lorries collecting the grain. The American red wheat is grown on contract for Hovis so it may actually end up back on the shelf at Bradleys.

Harvest time is a tiring but rewarding part of the year. Long working hours are necessary to take advantage of favourable weather conditions, and there is great camaraderie amongst the workers.

Long hours spent out in the fields often brings unexpected sights. One year when Bill was cutting a field of wheat which was on the edge of a housing estate, he was surprised to find that there were toys appearing in the field where the crop had been cut. Toy rabbits, balls, even a plastic bucket and spade appeared before him. He made quite a collection in his cab. As he neared the centre of the field with the amount of wheat left standing quite small, 6 young foxes suddenly dashed out of the crop and scattered into the adjoining fields. We can only imagine that the fox cubs had been stealing toys from gardens for their own use.

From Sarah Wright

THE ROTHLEY POST

Battle of Britain parade RESIDENTS ARE being invited to a Battle of Britain Day parade and ceremony in Rothley on September 15.

Organised by the Rothley and District Royal British Legion, the event will take place at 9.30am at the War Memorial on Cross Green.

As well as the Royal British Legion Standards, cadets from Welbeck Defence Sixth Form College will take part and parade the RAF Ensign which will be raised on the flag pole. A prayer will be followed by a minute’s silence at 10am.

During the ceremony, which will also be attended by local school children, a senior RAF officer will give a short description of the Battle of Britain in 1940.

13

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

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

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

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

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

Further details at www.ulverscroftcameraclub.com

Library plans Pic: a late production Mk I Spitfire of 19 Squadron, September 1940

SEP 2011

PLANS FOR 14 dwellings at the old library headquarters site on Loughborough Road, near the Red Lion, have been submitted by developers.

Morris Holmes want to build the new homes on the rear section of the site on what is currently a car park. Access would be from Cossington Lane.

The plans do not contain any proposals for the existing buildings, resulting in some speculation that plans for retail development may be forthcoming.

On August 10, Charnwood Borough Council ruled that Morris Homes’ application was invalid as it did not contain sufficient detail.

Latimer ladies’ race for life A GROUP of eight ladies from the Latimer Players Drama Society recently took part with over three thousand other women and girls in the ‘Race for Life’ in aid of Cancer Research.

The event, held at Leicester’s Western Park over the weekend of July 9 & 10 was blessed with good weather which helped to produce a very happy and friendly atmosphere for entrants and spectators.

As a reminder of what the day was really about all those taking part had on their backs the names of loved ones who

had fought, or are fighting, this disease.

Pic: Taking their bow at the finishing line are Val Marriott, Becky Tooth, Lily Preston, Jane Morris (with baby George), Linda Lakin, Joyce Green, Anna Lacey and Laura Simms who between them raised £1,000 for this worthwhile cause.

14 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

Society’s Mountsorrel walk

GCR’s new café A NEW café has been built at the Great Central Railway’s Quorn station.

The £145,000 Butler-Henderson café, pictured above, seats 46 people and has been constructed in the Great Central house style to blend in with the adjacent grade II listed station.

A new toilet block has also been built and a picnic area to give visitors a grandstand view of passing trains.

The new facility has created 10 jobs

for the local community.

Project manager for the Great Central Railway, Tony Sparks said: “With an ever growing number of events taking place at Quorn station, like our wartime weekend, bonfire night and steam galas, the new café will allow us to cater for the thousands of people who visit us. It’s just one of a number of developments planned for the site.”

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

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

Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC

Elizabeth Qualified Mobile Hairdresser Appointments available weekdays, evenings & weekends

DAVE HUTCHINGS GENERAL BUILDING & HOME REPAIRS

Brickwork • Patios Re-pointing Tiling • Plaster Patching • Fencing etc No job too small Friendly Reliable Service Free Quotations • Fully Insured

Tel: 0116 260 7716 Mob: 07770 785400 Email: hutchingsno1@aol.com Website: www.dave-hutchings.com

WOO’S WILLOW CATTERY Licensed Boarding Cattery in garden setting Indoor sleeping area with covered outdoor run

Tel: 2672142

Inspections Welcome

Mob: 0780 380 2895

Contact Lesley: 01509 412119 53 Hawcliffe Rd, Mountsorrel

ON THE evening of July 19, 2011 we enjoyed a very pleasant walk around Mountsorrel village.

Our guide was Society Secretary, Peter Smith, who had done some detailed research to ensure an interesting and wellinformed talk as we progressed along.

The settlement that became Mountsorrel grew up between the granite rock of Charnwood and the River Soar and dates back to Saxon times. We began our walk near the Waterside Inn (dating from 1795) at the Mountsorrel Lock, where Peter explained the importance of the river as a means of transport over the centuries, until the construction of the canal and locks which provided increased transport capacity during rapid industrial development. Nowadays, the waterways’ use is mainly for leisure purposes.

On one corner of Sileby Road stands a replica of a Medieval market cross, the original having been removed from the site of the Buttermarket, further along the road, on the orders of a previous owner of Swithland Hall, to be re-erected in the grounds of the Hall where it remains today. Almost opposite the replica cross is St. Peter’s Parish Church and parts of its structure date from Mediaeval times. This church served what used to be known as the north or ‘inferior’ end of the village.

In Norman times the north end was under the jurisdiction of the Earl of Chester and the south end, the Earl of Leicester.

Our walk proceeded towards the south or ‘superior’ end of the village, passing the Buttermarket which was erected in 1793 to protect stallholders, as well as replacing the original Mediaeval market cross; then a building that used to be the Temperance Hall (now a private dwelling) which was intended as a focus for redemption from the sin of imbibing too much alcohol, given the temptation provided by the numerous public houses that used to be in the village, although only a few remain today, such as ‘The Swan’ and ‘The Railway Inn’! On nearing the Village Green, Castle Gardens contain a statue of a knight by local sculptor, Mike Grevatte.

Mountsorrel Village Green is thought to be one of the largest in the country. Points of interest are the village pump, constructed in local granite and commemorating Queen Victoria’s Jubilee; architectural evidence of previous public houses; attractive old cottages; the pinfold and, finally, the Victorian parish church serving the south end, named Christ Church, which dates from 1844 and replaced an earlier church on the site.

Walking on to the summit of Castle Hill, we could appreciate the commanding position that the Castle had held when it was built soon after the Norman conquest. It is easy to imagine what a magnificent structure it must have been. We were also able to see the area that had been occupied by the quarry when it had provided the major industry in the village. Mountsorrel granite is still quarried today, but not in such huge quantities as previously. We climbed further to admire the panoramic views and to see the site of the memorial to the fallen of the two World Wars, before descending to walk along Watling Street and back to the Buttermarket.

Retracing our footsteps along Leicester Road we viewed the elegant front of the former vicarage for St. Peter’s Church (corner of Sileby Road); further on, the mounting block, supposedly used by highwayman, Dick Turpin, and, on the corner of Crown Lane, another sculpture by Mike Grevatte – this one of a swan.

To conclude our walk, we diverted off the main road to join a footpath and footbridge over the river and thence, to return to our starting point at the Waterside Inn, where some of our group enjoyed some

welcome liquid refreshment.

Our meetings for the remainder of the year will be based at the Harrison Room, All Saints’ Church, Thurcaston; dates – September 20 (topic – Village Cinemas), October 18 (topic – Nell Gwyn) and November 15 (short A.G.M. followed by a talk on Old Postcards). All meetings at 7.30pm.

From Jennifer Kennington Thurcaston & Cropston Local History Society

New classrooms A TWO storey, four classroom block is to be built at Rothley school.

The new block will replace the existing mobile classroom. The County Council say the new building is needed to accommodate an increase in pupil numbers from 342 in 2011 to 397 in 2015.

The new block will have no impact on the playing fields or on the hard playing area, say the County.

WI news JULY’S SPEAKER was Mrs Anne Halsey who told us about the formation and work of The Baldwin Trust.

It all started when staff at the Glenfrith Hospital arranged a boat trip for some severely disabled patients. Such was its success, and so great the benefits to the patients, that staff and their friends were inspired to start raising money for a narrowboat.

Bert Halsey led the volunteers and made valuable contacts with organisations like Voluntary Action Leicester and Rainbow (a charity for young apprentices, supported by the Prince of Wales). Between them they not only raised the money but also got help to build the boat. Normally a specially adapted narrowboat would have cost £85,000. With no labour costs and only having to pay for materials, it reduced the price to £35,000.

In 1988, the boat named St Clare was collected from Chester. In later years a second boat was acquired from Leicester City Council. This was refurbished and renamed Dandelion. Both bring enormous pleasure to disabled passengers and their families alike. 58 highly trained volunteers ensure the smooth running of the organisation and its outings.

In 2010 the Trust was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. This was a very proud moment and a fitting tribute to the hard work of the late Bert Halsey and his colleagues.

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THE ROTHLEY POST

New curate

School garden A PRIMARY school has received a grant to buy a greenhouse.

Richard Hill CE Primary School, Thurcaston has been awarded a Leicestershire County Council, Stepping Stones grant for their garden project.

ROTHLEY has a new curate.

Tom and Nicola Rout recently moved to the village along with their two daughters, Jessica and Imogen.

Tom was recently ordained at Leicester Cathedral as curate, working with the vicar, Rob Gladstone. Tom has spent the last three years in Oxford training at Wycliffe Hall, the same theological college that recently sent a team of students to take part in the ‘More to Life’ week in

The grant has allowed them to purchase a new greenhouse, so that the children can see the lifecycle of the plants as they grow from start to finish. It will also allow them to purchase a whole new range of plants to provide more colour in the garden, in order to attract more wildlife.

Rachael Boyall, Family Outreach Worker, said: “We also intend to purchase wildlife habitats such as hedgehog homes, insect logs, bird houses and bird feeders to encourage more visitors to our garden. This will be possible with the help of the

Pic: the willow structure

Amateur dramatics

Pic: Tom & Nicola Rout with their daughters

Rothley. Before that he worked in London as a lay student pastor.

Nicola has a legal background but is currently enjoying being a full time mother of two. Tom was most appreciative of the welcome the family had received when moving in.

“We had a great welcome which has helped us settle in and I look forward to getting to know as many people as possible in the village over the next few years and being involved within the various church and village community activities” he said.

A LOCAL amateur dramatics group is welcoming new members.

Latimer Players Spokeswoman Christine Deavin said: “The society will give a warm welcome to anyone wishing to join a thriving drama group to act or help back stage. If you have ever wondered what it’s like to perform on stage, or be an important part of back stage setting props and changing scenes, or putting together outrageous costumes, now is your chance to try it out. You don’t have to give an Oscar winning performance, just lots of enthusiasm.

“Apart from rehearsals, we have regular social monthly meetings visiting local places, theatre visits, skittles, speakers

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grant and also a donation from the local Ornithological Society.”

Richard Hill has also recently been given a donation from the school PTA to add a willow structure to their gardening project. This has been planted and is maturing well, with children both relaxing in the willow structure and playing around it.

Rachael added: “Keep your eye on the Richard Hill garden in the coming months as there will be a lot going on which we will all get a lot of use and enjoyment out of, particularly the children.”

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and quiz nights. Recently we had a boat trip on the Soar to the pub and back, a visit to the museum in Barrow and a night at the Curve Theatre.”

The Latimer Players recently held auditions for Puss in Boots to be performed in Thurcaston Memorial Hall on November 24, 25 & 26 at 7.30pm. There will also be a matinee at 2.30pm on November 26. The main parts have been cast but there are still places for adult villagers and chorus.

If you think this is for you, contact the secretary, Christine Deavin 01827 880834 oremail:christinedeavin@btinternet.com

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SEP 2011

15

Try bell ringing ROTHLEY CHURCH is trying to recruit a number of new or returning bell-ringers.

The parish church of St Mary and St John in the centre of the village has six bells, but due to a number of existing ringers moving away from the village, the bells are now rung only rarely. New recruits are needed in order to prevent another Leicestershire tower falling silent.

Bell-ringing is a very social activity, and has been described as a fantastic team sport. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t require great strength or musical ability, just a certain amount of patience, some commitment to come along regularly, and the ability to work together as part of a team. Bell-ringers come in all shapes, sizes, genders, ages and religions, so as long as you are fit and mobile, and able to climb a spiral staircase, it could be for you! For many recruits, once they have learned to ring, it gives a lifetime of enjoyment.

Many successful ringers first learned to ring because a family member or friend wanted to learn, and didn’t want to go along alone. Some couples or families learn together as a way of being active together. Others want to give something back to the local or church community, and others again want the intellectual stimulation of learning new skills and working in a team.

Unfortunately, in today’s world, more and more people find it hard to commit to the time needed to learn a new skill, and the art of bell-ringing is becoming more and more unusual. Many towers have become silent over recent years, and this trend looks set to continue. In a few decades’ time, it may be that ringing is only practised in some parts of the country, fading in a similar way to many other old English folk traditions.

If you think you would be interested in having a go at ringing, or would like to know more about it, there will be an ‘open tower evening’ at St Mary and St John’s church in Rothley at 7:30pm on Thursday 8th September, and a similar event on Sunday 11th September following the 10:30am Family Service. We’d also love to hear from you if you are someone who learned to ring years ago, and might like to pick it up again now.

For further details, please contact Ian Maynard Smith (0116 230 2850 or ianmaynardsmith@yahoo.com).

From Ian Maynard Smith

16 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2011

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

The week’s events, held at Mountsorrel Methodist Church, concluded with a concert for parents. The children acted out the Bible stories of Jonah and the Whale, Elijah, Daniel in the Lions’ Den and David and Goliath. Parents were then treated to a lively performance of some of the songs learnt during the week.

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

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

All welcome.

Rotary supports charity A CHARITY that provides outings on waterways has been supported by the Rotary Club of the Soar Valley During the last twelve months Norman Ellis, as President of the Club had nominated the Peter Le Marchant Trust as a local charity that he wanted to help.

He is pictured handing over a cheque for £500, making a total of £1,000 that the club has donated during his presidency.

Norman said: “I’m pleased that the club has been able to help the Loughborough-based Peter Le Marchant Trust,

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which for the last thirty years has been providing outings and holidays on waterways, for people of all ages with disability or serious illness.”

Pic: Lynne Smith, secretary to the Peter Le Marchant Trust, receives a cheque for £500 from Norman Ellis of Soar Valley Rotary Club

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Triathlon winners Planning applications RICHARD HILL CE Primary School, Thurcaston has won the Leicestershire Schools Triathlon Championship.

Children from Richard Hill School took part in the event, along with 30 other schools from the county. The school won ‘The Waitrose Shield’ after scoring 2924 points out of a potential 3000 points.

Rachel Hames, Deputy Head Teacher, said: “What a win! The children have done us proud, and they have won the shield for the school.”

Ian Fletcher, PE Coordinator, added: “Special recognition goes to our participants, Sam Partis, Ed Partis, Molly Smith and Jesse Pilgrim Read.”

Richard Hill will be presented with ‘The Waitrose Shield’ later this month.

P/11/1866/2: 48 Templar Way, Rothley, single storey side and rear extension including removal of existing detached garage P/11/1877/2: 32 Fowke Street, Rothley, fell one yew tree P/11/1799/2: 4 Forge End, Rothley, erection of single storey extension to dwelling P/11/1836/2: 21 The Ridgeway, Rothley, the removal of two existing sheds with the erection of breeze block shed P/11/1782/2: Rothley Church of England Primary School, Mountsorrel lane, Rothley, LCC Reg3 Application, erection of two storey 4 classroom block (LCC ID No.2011/L539/02) P/11/1702/2: Six Acres 17 the Ridgeway, Rothley, erection of single and two storey extensions to front of dwelling, conversion of outbuildings to habitable space and creation of dwelling with garage space below P/11/1431/2: Manor Holt 1082 Loughborough Road, Rothley, erection of 14 dwellings following demolition of house and outbuildings (Revised scheme – P/10/2760/2 refers) P/11/1515/2: 86 Swithland Lane, Rothley, erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/11/1497/2: Holly Lodge, 60 The Ridgeway, Rothley, erection of five car garage P/11/1400/2: 969 Loughborough Road, Rothley,

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Richard Hill’s Church of England School Charity The Trustees of the Charity invite those under age 25 years who are attending or have attended the Richard Hill School to apply for a Grant to assist with educational activities (including social and physical training) not otherwise provided by the Local Authority.

THE ROTHLEY POST

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proposed two storey side extension, single storey rear extension and replacement porch to front of dwelling P/11/1407/2: 148 Station Road, Cropston, single storey rear extension P/11/1429/2: 172 Station Road, Cropston, alteration of roof at 1st floor height to create dormer window including pitched roof

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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.

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