The Bradgate Magazine - September 2015

THE BRADGATE MAGAZINE

Bradgate

The

magazine

September / October 2015

Local News, Events, Charities, Weddings, Wildlife, Sports, Education & more...

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2015 | ISSUE 16 WWW.THEBRADGATEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Leicestershire Powers Great Britain's Women!

Your Local Community Magazine September / October 2015

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FROM THE EDITOR

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Welcome to our latest issue, in this edition we warmly

bring you our usual mix of articles and reports from societies and clubs as well as an extensive roundup of upcoming local events. We also have a Wedding Feature spotlighted in this edition (pages 32-37) - a must read for anyone who is thinking about or actually involved in planning their own or a loved one’s wedding.

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Talking of big days out…LOROS are looking for volunteers to help guide walkers who are taking part in their ‘Walk on the Wildside’ event on 27th September. If you think you might be able to spare a few hours to help with this worthy day out please contact the organisers, details can be found on page 10. Also on page 10, did you know that 4th October is ‘Grandparents Day’? Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland are organising a competition for local schools to participate in: see how you and your class can get involved.

If all of the above sounds a bit active, why not enjoy some relaxing time courtesy of Quorn’s annual Food & Craft Festival.

This ‘foodie’ treat, taking place on 6th September across several locations in the village is sure to be well worth a visit – jump to page 52 for more details.

Lastly, did you know women play American Football? Well you do now - read about how a group of Leicestershire women have been busy ‘powering’ Great Britain in the inaugural Women’s American Football European Championships in Spain. Turn to page 49 to read about their exploits and see how you too might be able to get involved. The cover photo is with thanks to © GW Images.

That’s it for now folks, be sure to enjoy all our magazine has to offer and we do hope the remainder of the summer is a wonderful time for you all.

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CONTENTS 10 GRANDPARENTS’ DAY A fantastic competition run by Age UK to get youngsters thinking about the older members of our community.

23 WONDERFUL WILDLIFE Find out about local talks on all things ‘wildlife’ and read about the fab exhibition being held at Ferrers Gallery!

32 WEDDING ARE IN THE AIR With proposals on the rise take a flick through our wedding pages and read about bridal dress trends & how to handle your budget.

49 AMERICAN FOOTBALL Find out about how local Leicestershire ladies got on when they added to the GB Women’s American Football team in the 2015 European Championship!

Ed & the team CONTACT US: editor@thebradgatemagazine.co.uk | 01530 249589 | www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk ADVERTISING: For anyone wishing to advertise in The Bradgate contact the editor for prices, deadlines & offers!

Our Disclaimer:

Reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content, The Bradgate Magazine takes no responsibility for the accuracy of statements or content and can accept no liability for errors, omissions or any inconvenience arising therefrom. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. All text, images and design in this publication and on the website are subject to copyright. Any unauthorised duplication is strictly prohibited. Artwork and articles are accepted in good faith and on the condition that permission has been granted for use on our website. Copyright © The Bradgate Magazine Ltd.

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The Bradgate is printed by: Spectrum Printing Services Ltd, Waterside Road, Hamilton Business Park, Leicester LE5 1TL | Tel: 0116 2461717

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Bush HogTails & Wildlife Charities New author to the world of children’s books, Victoria Harwood takes great pride in self illustrating her books. Proven popular not only with children but also adults across the UK, New Zealand, Japan, Australia and even in an English teaching school in Kuwait.

Victoria donates all profits from the sales of her wonderful books to local wildlife charities and she works hard to try to not only encourage reading but to raise awareness of animals as well. Her Facebook page is full of interesting and unusual animal facts and all things animal related (search Facebook for Bush Hog Tails).

Between 4 - 5pm on Thursday 24th September, Victoria will be holding an event at Ashby Library, her books will be available for purchasing at the price of £5 (all profits donated to Nuneaton and Warwickshire wildlife sanctuary - www.nuneatonwildlife.co.uk).

She has invited a speaker from a hedgehog rescue to go along and give a talk on hedgehogs with the hope to help raise awareness for our spiky friends.

Pop along and join in the fun!

Raise a GRAND for GRANDparents’ Day Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland is inviting local schools to celebrate Grandparents’ Day (4th October) with a competition to win tickets to see Snow White at De Montfort Hall including runner up prizes. Pupils can enter the competition by writing a poem, letter or paragraph or even create a piece of art about why their grandparents or great grandparents are SO special to them.

Tessa Trace, Head of Marketing and Income Generation at Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland said: “this competition is great for both schools and children’s development as it encourages them to use their creative skills and imagination to produce some really special messages. Last year, the event was supported by over 100 school children and it was tough to judge as we received some really imaginative entries”.

This competition prompts pupils to think about the special relationship they already have with older people and to think more widely about helping vulnerable older people through fundraising activities.

Primary schools are invited to support Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland with a special fundraising day to help celebrate Grandparents’ Day which could include a Grandparents Assembly, non-school uniform day or silly hat afternoon.

The winning entries will be selected by a panel of Age UK staff and volunteers.

The winner will receive four tickets to see Snow White at De Montfort Hall.

To participate, schools should contact Helen Fairhead at Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland on 0116 2237346 or by email on helen.fairhead@ageukleics.org.uk Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland will also be able to assist with ideas for fundraising.

Help LOROS to Take a Walk on the Wildside LOROS are looking for volunteers to help marshal at this years Walk on the Wildside Event.

The annual sponsored countryside walk takes you through the beautiful Charnwood Forest and Bradgate Park.

With a new venue for this year, starting and finishing at Hunts Hill Car Park, Bradgate Park. LOROS are looking for volunteers to guide the hundreds of walkers safely on their way. All volunteers will be provided with refreshments on the day.

Debbie Dickman, Fundraising Co-ordinator at LOROS said, “We really do appreciate the support of our wonderful volunteers who give up their valuable time to help raise funds for the Hospice. The event raises over £20,000 each year and this would not be possible without the help we receive.”

If you are available from 8am till 4pm on Sunday 27th September, please contact Debbie Dickman at the LOROS Fundraising Department on 0116 2318484 or email: fundraising@loros.co.uk Or why not dig out your walking boots and Register online at www.loros.co.uk/wow Last chance to register is Monday 21st September 2015!

All money raised will ensure LOROS continues to provide care and support to terminally-ill patients and their families living in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

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FOOD PROJECT: MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY Since the Soar Valley Community Food Project opened on 1 September 2014 it has given out over 300 food parcels. The project, based in Rothley Baptist Church in the centre of Rothley, provides food to those in need as well as a signposting people to other assistance that might be available. We do this in a relaxed manner over a drink and biscuit. We are able to support people to a better future by helping them in the short term to put food on the table and to assist them find a way forward out of the crisis. Some of the examples of what we have been able to achieve are:• Chasing the council to complete vital repairs to a rental house that had been outstanding for over a year, • Getting a young family’s gas reconnected to ensure heating in the depths of winter, • Supporting a family having major issues with neighbours, • Going to court with a family to help them avoid being evicted from their house, • Being able to provide food to individuals and families who have not eaten for several days.

In addition, the linked Soar Valley Community Money Advice Centre can offer advice on debt, benefit entitlement, costsaving ideas and budgeting.

Tim Jackson, Project Coordinator, commented “It has been fantastic to be able to help so many people over the past 10 months on their journey. Life can be a challenge for all of us at times and we feel privileged to support people when the need gets too great. We have an amazing team who work closely together to support all those who visit us. We are tremendously grateful to the local supermarkets and their customers who have donated food. When you shop please look out for the donation bins and donate non-perishable food. Also if you are connected with a school please consider making us the beneficiary of your harvest festival collection next term” The Soar Valley Community Food Project, which is jointly run by Rothley Parish Church and Rothley Baptist Church, is based at the Baptist Church, Woodgate, Rothley and is open Monday mornings from 11am to 1pm. It is open to anyone who needs help so please pop in for a coffee and see us, call/text 07743 765958 or email soarvalleycfp@gmail.org and start the journey to a better future.

If you would like to donate food, money or time please come and see us or call 07743 765958.

SAVE A HEART WITH GOLD

There could be a heart attack test hidden in your jewellery box!

Instead of taking up space, your unwanted, odd bits and even broken jewellery could be helping fund lifesaving medical research into heart disease. National heart charity Heart Research UK are appealing for as many of you as possible to donate your unwanted jewellery to their Treasure Your Heart Appeal.

It’s easy peasy, all you need to do is get in touch with Heart Research UK and request a donation envelope, fill it up with your donated jewellery and send back by FREE post. Alternatively, if you live near a Beaverbrooks jewellers, you can visit a store to collect an envelope, fill it up and pass it back to them to collect on behalf of Heart Research UK. Everything you donate and collect from friends, family and colleagues will be auctioned off and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Heart Research UK. The money raised from the jewellery you collect will be spent back in your community, ensuring you are helping hearts near you. Absolutely any jewellery will help; damaged, broken, odd pieces, gold, silver, beads, costume jewellery and even watches!

The more jewellery Heart Research UK receive, the more money will be raised to go towards their pioneering medical research and local heart health projects, such as their latest project which is developing a test to predict heart attacks in patients.

Heart disease is still the UK’s biggest killer and with women three times more likely to die from it than breast cancer, we must continue to support their pioneering medical research to change these frightening statistics.

Visit www.heartresearch.org.uk , call: 0113 234 7474 or email: community@heartresearch.org.uk to find out how easy it is to help with this appeal.

Ladies Circle Coffee Morning

Charity Whist Drive

Saturday 10th October 2015, 10am - 11:30pm Coffee Morning to raise funds for the Laura Centre. There will be the following stalls: cake ,tombola ,raffle and white elephant.

Ladies Circle, Howe Lane, Rothley.

The next in the series of Charity Whist Drives organised

by Derek Farr will be held at 7.30pm on Thursday 3rd September.

The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

Admission £2.00. All players welcome

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Charity News ALEX’S WISH: Dandelion Ball - Casino Royale Night A fun-filled star-studded black tie night of eating, drinking and partying at the annual Dandelion Ball will be taking place on Saturday, 14th November at The Hilton (East Midlands Airport) sponsored by William Hill. The charity hopes to attract 200 guests to this event. The evening is a fabulous opportunity to let your hair down and have fun with friends and family!

Tables of 10 are available at a cost of £600 (individual places available too) and includes a glass of Kir Royale and canapés, a 4-course banquet, bottles of red and white wine on each table, a live band plus £10 of complimentary chips per person for use on the casino tables, a silent and live auction and raffle with some AMAZING prizes up for grabs!

To reserve your table/place please get in touch today! Contact Emma Hallam emma@alexswish.co.uk 0r call 07903 349475. www.alexswish.co.uk

Vintage & Classic Motors 1st Melton Vintage & Classic Vehicle Festival Sunday 6th September 2015, 10am - 4pm Melton Mowbray Play Close will come alive for half a day in September with a great display of vintage and classic cars, vans, motor cycles, scooters, commercial, public service, military and agricultural vehicles. Plus crowds of admiring spectators.

PRE-BOOKING NOT ESSENTIAL, but is recommended To exhibit your classic vehicle we suggest you book in advance. Go to www.meltonvehiclefestival.org.uk for more details.

This event is hosted by the Rotary Club of Melton Mowbray and the main charity they will be raising money from the event for is the QMC Helipad Appeal.

Charity Coffee Morning

Saturday 5th September 2015, 10am - noon Coffee morning and Sale in aid of Cancer Research UK. Stalls to include Cakes, Books, Bric a Brac, Gifts, Jewellery, Plants, Toys, Phoenix Cards, Tombola and Raffle.

Entrance is £1 to include unlimited tea/coffee and biscuits. The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

EVERYONE WELCOME - PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CANCER RESEARCH UK.

Charity Bridge Drive

Organised by Loughborough Lions Club will be held at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley on Friday 6th November at 1:30pm with afternoon tea provided at a cost of £6 pp.

To book a table please contact Jackie on 0116 2303317 or email:brianjackie.popple@ntlworld.com

Bradgate Rotary Club

June and July have been busy planning months for Bradgate Rotary Club with the Annual General meeting taking place on June 10th and a “visionary” meeting scheduled for July 15th, where members were invited to discuss where and how they saw the club might develop in the next year. Now the club has been formally established the members are keen to make new plans and hopefully attract more members to come along to the Wednesday meetings.

Social events have included a meal out at Leicester College, enjoying the delicious food of students at Leicester College on the 24th June and an “al fresco” picnic evening in Bradgate Park at Old John where new members were formally welcomed into the Rotary club We are very keen to extend our involvement in supporting and helping the local community and recently made a start on what we hope will be the first of many Youth projects. On July 6th two of our members were happy to make a Presentation at South Charnwood School to two Year 9 students, who were given Community Service awards from Bradgate Rotary Club in the form of £50 vouchers.

This followed the presentation of a cheque for £1200 to one of our local charities “Alex’s wish” ( raising money for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) mainly raised by members taking part in the Loughborough Santa Fun Run last December.

We meet every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month for breakfast 7.30am to 8.30am at The Stamford Arms in Groby and hold Speaker evenings and socials on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays in the evening. Please contact the President of the club (Brian Rigby) at the Stamford Arms for further details.

Future plans are already forming for the early autumn calendar including: Wednesday 14th October - Speaker: Peter from Bradgate Park.

Wednesday 25th November - Wine tasting: Liz Robson, Rothley Wine Ltd.

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NT Leicester Association

Rothley History Society

The National Trust is well known for its large country houses and large areas of beautiful countryside. What is not so widely known is that it owns, or partially owns, 59 villages in the UK.

At our June meeting John Bennett from Leicester Transport Heritage Trust gave us an insight into the work which the trust has already completed and told us what their plans are for the future, namely the restoration of the tram depot near to Oadby Racecourse, on London Road in Leicester. He also showed pictures of buses, and told us how they had developed over the years. He talked about the various buses owned by local bus companies, their routes and their owners. The one which was most interesting to our members was the information and historical details of Boyer’s Buses, which were garaged in Mountsorrel Lane in Rothley, right opposite to the Rothley Centre. We were very pleased to have two members of the Boyer family who had come along to hear the talk.

During our summer break from the normal meetings we will be going on our annual outing to Worcester. Members will be able to attend the talk by King John’s Tomb to learn about his connection with the Magna Carta, and to hear the connection with Simon de Montfort. Our regular meetings will resume on Wednesday 16th. September, with Sandy Leong and her talk titled “A Nice Cup of Tea”.

Sandy will give us the fascinating tale of adventure, tax, criminality, temperance, rationing and how it became a morale booster in World War 1 and 2.

Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley at 7.30pm. Admission is £3 for visitors and £2 for members.

Visitors are always welcome!!

West Wycombe Village in Buckinghamshire was the first village owned by the Trust. It was purchased from the Royal Society of Arts in 1934 after they had undertaken a five year programme of restoration and modernisation.

The village contained 3 inns and over 50 cottages and houses which together illustrate the gentle development of English domestic architecture over four hundred years from the late 15th century.

Probably the best known National Trust village is Lacock in Wiltshire which regularly features in TV dramas and feature films. Lacock was built on wealth from the wool trade and is one of the best preserved and unaltered villages in England.

It was given to the Trust by Miss Matilda Talbot in 1944 and contains houses from the 13th to the 19th century. The Trust takes great trouble in the conservation of the village even arranging piped TV reception to all properties to avoid a host of aerials. They also maintain the age old tradition of only renting properties to tenants who are local people.

Considered to be the prettiest village in England, Chiddingstone in Kent is a beautiful example of a Tudor one-street village. The style is characteristically Kentish, with brick or half-timbered walls, tile hangings, wide eaves with steeply pitched roofs and picturesque gables.

The National Trust bought the entire village, including the inn and the post office, in 1939 to ensure its preservation.

The earliest building is dated 1453.

The smallest village owned by the Trust is the hamlet of Blaise near Bristol. It consists of nine gabled cottages around a village green which were built by John Harford in 1811 for his retired servants. The architect was none other than John Nash who is more famous for his developments at Regents Park and Carlton House Terrace.

Blaise Hamlet was given to the Trust in 1943.

Other famous NT villages include Style in Cheshire, built in the 1820’s to house workers from Quarry Bank Mill, and Boscastle in Cornwall which had devastating floods in 2004.

The NT Leicester Association has an evening meeting on Tuesday 8th September when Jennifer Bell (NT) will present an illustrated talk on The History of Upton House & Gardens. The meeting will be held at Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone at 7.30pm.

There will be an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 23rd September at St Guthlac’s Memorial Hall, Holbrook Road, Leicester at 2.30pm when Mary Matts will present a talk on Wildflowers & Waterways.

Admission to both meetings is NTLA members £2.50, visitors £4.00 including refreshments.

For details of the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 2229133.

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Thurcaston & Cropston Open Gardens The sun shone for both afternoons on the last weekend of June for the Thurcaston and Cropston Open Gardens weekend.

Visitors (many from far afield ) had a choice of 25 gardens across the two villages, some old favourites who have been opening their garden gates for many years; some opening for the second or third year; and some new gardens. As part of their tri-centenary celebrations, Richard Hill School opened their gardens to demonstrate their prowess in growing strawberries and creating bug hotels. Residents at Wallis Close opened their grounds for visitors for the first time and did a roaring trade in tea and cake.

Other attractions included a garden with 2 baby goats, a plant swap and plant sales, several gardens offering refreshments, and the guest appearance of Ady Dayman from Radio Leicester’s ‘Down to Earth’ gardening show.

But the real stars of the show were the plants and flowers, the ponds and pots. The June sunshine had brought out flowers in every garden. Visitors had a whole range of gardens to enjoy, the formal, the informal, the cottage garden style and the neat and well organised, the large and the small.

Did you visit us for Open Gardens? The garden owners would like to thank you all for your interest, your most appreciative comments, your questions and suggestions.

We all had a really enjoyable time, we hope you did too.

Best of all, between us we all raised £2426 for LOROS. This is a record for our event, so well done to everyone. www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

Volunteering, with a difference

Across Leicestershire and beyond, businesses and individuals are volunteering their time to work with Young Enterprise; the UK’s leading enterprise and financial education charity, working with young people aged 4 to 25 to develop their employability skills. A popular and rewarding opportunity to embark on; Young Enterprise Volunteers become Business Advisors, coaching and mentoring a Young Enterprise Company, where students set up and run their own business.

It’s a brilliant role for anyone who wants to get involved with the local community, work with young people and even develop their own skills.

But what does it really mean to become a Business Advisor? What does it involve? And what on earth do you do on your first day with your group of students? We spoke to Mishal to get her thoughts on being a Business Advisor for Young Enterprise.

Top Tips “Stick with it. Don’t run away after 2 weeks!”

Having moved to the UK from Pakistan 2 years ago, Mishal graduated with a Degree in Biochemistry. She’s about to start her PHD but in the meantime, she’s volunteering as a Business Advisor. “I wanted to get out of the house; a friend suggested volunteering. I used to volunteer back home in between college and university and this opportunity was something completely outside of my field.”

It’s worth remembering that being a Business Advisor isn’t being a teacher, it’s a completely different approach aiming to bring practical skills and experience to keep the company on track. “They already have their teacher to tell them what’s right and wrong, I’m there to give them another perspective.”

After the first few weeks, it all starts to come together. For Mishal, who is used to working independently in a lab, her involvement offers a welcome change of pace – and a different noise level! “The young people really add an element of fun which is sometimes missing in business” And the rewards? They come thick and fast. For Mishal, it’s about seeing the young people learn – and enjoying it, they begin to think about their futures. It’s also about seeing the change in individuals as a result of being in the company and unlocking those all important employability skills. “We had a student who was really quiet initially, but they turned out to be one of the strongest members of the team” As a volunteer, you can really see the difference you have made to these young people’s experience and possibly their future.

Can Mishal sum up being a Business Advisor in 3 words? It’s a tougher question than you might think and Mishal doesn’t want to sound like a cliché. “VERY VERY REWARDING, does that count?”

If you would like to learn more about volunteering opportunities as a Business Adviser or for different one day events with Young Enterprise across Leicestershire, please e-mail: tina.smith@y-e.org.uk or Twitter: @Tina4YE

The Rothley Heritage Trust: Elgar & The Great War

The Rothley Heritage Trust presents a one day event, Elgar And The Great War By Barry Collett Saturday 14th November 2015, 10:30am - 4:30pm - The Old School Rooms, School Street, Rothley In 1914 Elgar was at the height of his powers with a burgeoning international reputation. The Great War shattered his world, as it did for the whole of society.

Dejected by a war against the nation which had first recognised his genius, he nonetheless produced some patriotic pieces to aid morale, as well as to help Belgian and Polish charities.

He also produced some of his most deeply felt masterpieces. But it wasn’t all sombre gloom-some of his best and most attractive light music comes from these years. Post 1918 was a different age and the composer felt out of tune with this new era.

This course will explore Elgar’s music from these years, and one session will be devoted to music from other composers affected by these turbulent times.

Barry Collett was Director of Music at Rutland College until his retirement. Since then he has pursued an increasingly busy lecturing schedule, especially for the Elgar Society. In 1975 he founded the Rutland Sinfonia, conducting all of its concerts for the first 26 seasons in a range of works from Purcell to premieres of new music. He has made 11 recordings both as conductor and pianist; his premiere recordings of Elgar’s lesser-known pieces have been widely acclaimed. His book ‘Elgar Country’ was published in 1981. He has edited volumes of Elgar’s songs and violin and piano pieces for publication, and written many articles for the Elgar Society Journal. Recently, he received the ‘Elgar Medal’, the Elgar Society’s highest award, in recognition of his pioneering work in researching and performing the composer’s lesser-known works.

Course fee: £7 (includes morning and afternoon refreshments). EARLY ENROLMENT BY POST ESSENTIAL! Cheques payable to The Rothley Heritage Trust and sent to Brenda Sutherland, 4 North St., Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NN. Please include name(s), address, ‘phone number and e-mail (if applicable) so that details of the day can be sent to you.

Further information from Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 vincent.mbe82@yahoo.co.uk September / October 2015

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Celebrations at Birstall Garden Centre Birstall Garden Centre is proud to be celebrating 45 years trading. A second generation, family run business which is supported by a helpful and knowledgeable team. In 1999 www.birstall.com was formed and became the UK’s 1st online Garden Centre with a fully operational e-commerce website. “We started off by scanning a few pages out of our brochures of garden sheds and summerhouses” explains Jordan Lee, managing director, “Within a few weeks; we were receiving orders from all over the UK! We have a comprehensive Logistics network and as of today, we’re offering a choice of over 22,000 garden & Leisure products online, for delivery throughout the UK & Europe, from live tropical aquatic plants, BBQ’s, top branded furniture to fully insulated home garden offices” There’s still plenty to do in the garden as autumn approaches , with the planting of bulbs in preparation for spring, cleaning and covering garden furniture, preparing the lawns with Autumn feed and of course planning your Christmas wish lists. Jo Henderson, Birstall’s Director, is excited at this time of year with the arrival of a whole new range of giftware and home furnishings and lots of exciting ideas for the coming season with presents to buy or tempt yourself with a treat or two! “Winter is one of our favourite seasons” she says. “We have a fantastic range of Le Chameau leather and rubber boots and outdoor clothing. And funky wellies and bags from Brakeburn. And Christmas dominates this time of year with shopping, decorations and festive cheer, freshly cut local real Christmas Trees and stunning artificial trees that look like the real thing. Here at the Garden Centre, we have a huge selection. The Christmas shop opens early October and real Christmas trees arrive during the last week of November.

Our well stocked Aquatic department offers everything for the pond or aquarium and our in house experts can answer any of your fishy queries”.

Many of Birstall Garden Centre’s customers describe the store as a TARDIS-like emporium, not realising they are much bigger than they initially appear. The shop is full of wonderful gifts for everyone, including traditional beech wood Davos sledges for when the snow falls, treats for the kids, scented candles and an array of gardener’s gifts like watering cans and cultivating tools to suit every taste and budget. It also boasts a fantastic choice of garden buildings including sheds, greenhouses, garages and summerhouses, all on display in the extensive showground.

The shop can be found in the centre of Birstall Village on the main shopping street running off the A6 Loughborough Road. There’s plenty of parking onsite plus more free public parking directly opposite the Garden Centre on Sibson Road for easy access.

Opening 7 days a week, Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, Sunday from 10am to 4pm Why not pop in for a browse and a freshly brewed coffee from the newly installed bean to cup coffee machine and enjoy one of the many snacks of biscuits and flapjacks on sale at the counter.

Birstall is more than just a garden centre, it’s a whole world of leisure and surprises

Stafford Orchard named as one of the best in Britain More parks and green spaces than ever will be flying the Green Flag Award this year – more than 1,582 across the UK. Stafford Orchard in Quorn is one of the very best in the UK – and that’s official.

The park is among a record-breaking 1,582 parks and green spaces that have recently received a prestigious Green Flag Award – the mark of a quality park or green space.

The award recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country. A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

Stafford Orchard is managed by a mixture of Parish Councillors and dedicated volunteers who come together as the Park Management Committee. The aim is to maintain standards and develop the park in line with the needs of the community.

Councillor Elizabeth Harrison, Chair of the Park Management Committee said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for the third time from Keep Britain Tidy. This Award recognises and highlights that people in Quorn are benefitting from a green space of the very highest quality”.

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another recordbreaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme. All the flags flying this year are a testament to the efforts of the thousands of men and women, both staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”

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The Monday Club, Anstey, Cropston, Thurcaston & Rothley Yesterday there was a very warm welcome for the return of Claire Orbell to perform Part 2 of her “Keep Fit Exercise Session.” Although Claire delivered the session with the same amount of amusement and enthusiasm as last year, there was more technical information attached to each exercise illustrating the importance and benefit to each set of muscles.

There was no stress involved as everyone was just encouraged to do as much or nothing as they could. The Members did seem to enjoy the session which lasted for 45 minutes, which flew by with good humour.

Following this, however, the afternoon concluded with the consumption of some gorgeous cakes in celebration of Birthdays belonging to Mesdames Gill Smart, Diana Whatton and Marjorie Sebastian. Not probably what Claire would have recommended following the exercise session, but she seemed to turn a blind eye and enjoyed her cake nevertheless! A very happy afternoon.

Our next Meeting will take place on Monday 14th September at 2.15pm when we shall hold our Annual Harvest Bring and Buy. Everyone will be welcome and it would be appreciated if you could bring along either some home produced items from your garden or your kitchen (shop bought goodies will also be very acceptable!) We usually have a lovely display which sells well.

Following this we shall welcome Mr Andrew Parsons talking about “Farming with Wild Life”.

Any enquiries please ring me on 0116 2363467.

- Ann Farndon

Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club’s Annual Show Saturday 5th September 2015. The 32nd Annual Garden, Craft & Produce Show

The Annual Show of the Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club will be held at the Richard Hill Primary School, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston on Saturday 5th September 2015.

This will be our third year at the school, the previous two were extremely successful. More exhibitors showing more exhibits and more afternoon visitors enjoying the whole occasion.

With a large range of classes there is something for one and all. Forget the idea that only “experts” participate, this is a Show designed to involve the whole family; the whole community.

Whether you grow flowers and vegetables, arrange flowers, make jam, take photographs, paint, embroider we have a class just right for you. It’s a wonderful opportunity to show-off your skills, so please don’t be afraid to have a go - it’s not the fierce competition that many still believe it to be. If you’ve always thought “I’d love to have a go but…..” don’t hesitate, join in the joy of taking part in a gentle competition with like-minded folk.

There’s also a tombola stall, refreshments and the chance of a real bargain at our end of Show “market stall” sale of produce.

The Show is open to everyone and exhibits are displayed from 8.30 am to 10.45 am on the morning of the Show. Doors are open to visitors at 2.30pm and entrance fee is just 50p (free to exhibitors and children).

Show schedules are available from the Thurcaston Village Hall, Tebbatts Electronics, Brookside Nursery, Bradleys Supermarket, Wyevale Garden Centre, Brooklea Nursery, or from the Show secretary on 0116 235 9758.

Autumn meetings for the Gardening Club will be held in the Memorial Hall, Thurcaston.

• Wednesday 14th October, 7.45 pm – The History of Hidcote Manor – Kate Ward. The fascinating 100 year story of this magnificent garden.

• Wednesday 11th November, 7.45 pm – Hostas & other Shade Loving Plants – Mick Eaton. A guide to the best plants for those shady spots in your garden.

• Wednesday 9th December, 7.45 pm – A Festive Evening. Pre-Christmas fun with food and a quiz or two. Come and join the party!

New members always welcome. For more information of any of these events call Dave Haddon on (0116) 235 9758.

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YOUR LOCAL BIRDWATCHING CLUB Birstall Birdwatching Club meets in The Rothley Centre for illustrated talks during the winter months:

COSSINGTON MEADOWS - ITS JOURNEY FROM QUARRY TO A WILDLIFE HAVEN by CHRIS HILL Chris is a Conservation Officer with the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and Cossington Meadows Reserve has been his project through its development and to the present day. This evening Chris will illustrate his project, the wildlife it has encouraged and its future. This is a lovely area right on our doorstep.

Tuesday 13th October 7.30pm - The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

Members free. Visitors £2. Children free. Free on-site parking and easy access.

YOUR WILDLIFE GARDEN - BRING IT ON! by NIGEL SLATER With so much of our countryside being taken over by development we can all make a small contribution towards helping wildlife by seeing our gardens in a different light-as a wildlife site or ‘patch of protected area’. Nigel’s first love is birds but has boundless enthusiasm for everything in the natural world and how vital it is to encourage all forms of wildlife, including birds, to visit our gardens for species survival.

Tuesday 10th November 7.30pm - The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

Members free. Visitors £2 Children free. Free on-site parking and easy access The Birstall Birdwatching Club was formed in 1978 with 12 members paying an annual fee of £1. Now meeting in Rothley after losing our Birstall venue our aim is to encourage people of all ages to enjoy wildlife but our main focus is birds. We have illustrated talks in the winter and outdoor visits in the summer. Membership is only £8 for the year and this gives free admission to all meetings. Visitors £2 per meeting with children free.

Further details from Marion Vincent 0116 2375156.

Great British Wildlife 12th September – 24th November 2015

Ferrers Gallery, Staunton Harold Estate, Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire.

For many, wildlife holds a special place in our hearts and this Autumn you can relive treasured encounters with Britain’s beloved animals in a visit to the Great British Wildlife Exhibition at Ferrers Gallery at Staunton Harold, near Ashby de la Zouch, where local animal life is recorded with incredible craftsmanship from across the UK. All manner of familiar creatures can be seen… deer and foxes are captured with meticulous embroidery whilst songbirds are brought to life with entrancing paper sculpture. See also dynamic natural dioramas rendered in wirework and adorned with semi-precious stones alongside garden birds hand-painted on stylish ceramic wall-hangings. The mystery and myth surrounding indigenous species has also been given fresh perspective with intensely intricate prints full of whirling natural energy.

Those all-too-brief glimpses of native wildlife can now be treasured at length. Don’t miss hares and hedgehogs cut from glass with chic modernity or birds of prey on the wing in beautiful bronzework.

One can’t help but wonder at the charm and personality of full-colour drawings of wily squirrels and noble stags hung beside distinctive prints of collaged animal caricatures.

Ferrers Gallery is proud to be displaying a menagerie of handcrafted creatures great and small so take a visit and enjoy and appreciate British Craftsmanship and wildlife in the stunning setting of Staunton Harold, and perhaps enjoy an Autumnal wander around the grounds of the Staunton Harold estate. Who knows, you may spot some British fauna in the flesh!

Ferrers Gallery is open 11-5pm Tuesday – Sunday (Closed Mondays except bank holidays).

Visit the website for more information about the gallery, events, exhibitions and more:

www.ferrersgallery.co.uk September / October 2015

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It’s Time To Get Cosy With Evans!

Expert advice, a quality product and top quality service at Evans Evans Fireplace Centre, based at 1159, Melton Road in Syston, has been established since 1980 and knows a thing or two about fires!

Their showroom, based over three floors, specialises in offering an extensive range of solid stone fireplaces manufactured by Firecraft (their sister company), together with wood surrounds, marble and cast iron inserts; and offers electric fires, gas fires, wood burning and multi fuel stoves and gas stoves or electric stoves – in fact anything to heat your room; or your home!

With over 30 years’ experience you’re guaranteed to speak to someone who really knows their trade, and someone who wants to make sure you buy the right fireplace, with the right fire at the right price! And that’s a promise!

You can count on Evans to install your fireplace with the minimum of fuss, as they offer a full home survey service and their Engineers are employed by the company and are all HETAS and Gas Safe registered giving you complete peace of mind – in fact did you realise for instance you may not need a liner to install a wood-burner or multi fuel stove?

Pop down to Evans today and see how they can help you, in fact when you arrive mention that you’ve seen them in the Bradgate Magazine as we’ve negotiated you an extra 10% discount off your order* – now, how’s that? You’re sure to receive a ‘warm welcome’ at Evans!

1159, Melton Road, Syston, Leicester, LE7 2JS Manufacturing site: Firecraft, units 2-4, Harrowbrook Ind Estate, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 3DU

www.evansfireplaces.com | Tel: 0116 260 0772 *Discount does not include installation charges – please ask in-store for more details.

Thurcaston & Cropston Local History Society On a fine summer’s day in July, a group from the Society made the journey to Hartlebury Castle near Kidderminster, which was until recently the official residence of the Bishops of Worcester. We were following in the footsteps of Richard Hurd, who was Rector of Thurcaston from 1756 to 1774. Hurd was a great favourite of George III and Queen Charlotte, becoming a tutor to their children including the future George IV, and he left Thurcaston when he was appointed as the Bishop of Lichfield. In 1781 he was promoted again to become Bishop of Worcester and he immediately set about building a new library at the Castle to house his collection of books. The Hurd Library remains on its original shelves today and it was the main focus of our visit. The Librarian, Chris Penney, had spoken at one of our meetings last year and we were pleased to see her again in her natural environment.

First, however, we were given a tour of the state rooms of the Castle by the wife of one of the more recent Bishops. The manor of Hartlebury was first given to the Bishops of Worcester by the Anglo-Saxon kings of Mercia. In medieval times it was fortified against attacks by the Welsh but it was badly damaged during the Civil War and the building visible today largely dates from the 17th and 18th centuries. There is a Great Hall harking back to the medieval period and an elegant Saloon. In the windows of the beautiful chapel was a reminder that another son of Thurcaston, Hugh Latimer, had also been Bishop of Worcester. Upstairs we were shown a four-poster bed prepared for a visit by the Prince of Wales – the future George IV – to whom Richard Hurd had been tutor. In the event, George did not stay the night but the bed was eventually slept in by Charles, the current Prince of Wales.

On to the Library, which is a light and gracious room built above the Long Gallery, with windows along one wall and around a central bay. Chris and two of her volunteer helpers had laid out examples of books from the collection, including some of particular relevance to us, such as an early atlas of Leicestershire and a letter written by Richard Hurd during his time at Thurcaston. The Library contains more than 4000 volumes and was put together at the height of the Enlightenment, when information of all kinds was being gathered and re-assessed, and we admired beautifully illustrated books on subjects ranging from the flora of London to travel in Tibet and the South Seas. Other books were notable for their provenance, including more than 100 given by George III from the Royal Collection and an edition of Spenser’s Faerie Queen that had formerly belonged to both Dryden and Pope.

Chris is keen to make the books in the collection available for reference by anyone who is interested in the period or subjects concerned. The Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust has just obtained Lottery funding to buy the building and secure its future, and there are plans to improve access in conjunction with the Worcestershire County Museum, which is already on the same site. The Castle should therefore become an even better destination for the public to visit in years to come but we were privileged to have such a warm welcome and expert guidance on our private tour.

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EDUCATION EDUCATION EDUCATION Outstanding A Level Students Class of 2015 at Groby Community College!

Grace Dieu Manor School Open Day

A Level students at Groby Community College recently celebrated receiving their results. Students have studied a mixture of A Levels and Level 3 BTECs over the last two years.

There were some exceptional individual outcomes in this year’s set of results as well as some students who have made excellent progress over their four years at the college.

A huge congratulations goes out to all of our students who have collected A Level, BTEC and AS Level grades.

As always we are extremely proud of every student’s performance.

The overall headline results for all A Levels and Level 3 BTECs are:

Robert Coles, Headteacher

Grace Dieu is a Catholic, Independent Day school for boys and girls aged 3 – 13 years. The magical setting at Grace Dieu has a tangible sense of a deeply rooted and timeless spirituality – the hallmark of a Grace Dieu education for over 80 years.

Peter Fisher, Headmaster: “Our literature and our website will certainly provide you with answers to your key questions, but in order to discover more about us I can only encourage you to come in and speak with us at the school, you can meet the pupils (who are the heartbeat of our School), and staff and experience, first-hand, all that Grace Dieu is and what it is the School can offer your child in these their formative years.”

Bring your family to the open day and enjoy the beautiful, stimulating, educational environment of Grace Dieu Manor School and experience the School ‘in action’. At 11am the Headmaster, along with our Head Boy and Girl, will make a short, informative, address to all visitors.

You can register for the open day online http:// gracedieu.com/open-days/ or if you would like to make a different appointment to visit the School and meet the Headmaster please email the school directly: registrar@ gracedieu.com

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• 25% of all grades are A or A* • 54% A*-B • 100% of students passed at least one A Level These are outstanding results and significantly above the 2014 national average for A*-B. Well done to all of the students, parents and carers who have supported them over the last two years and to the staff who have worked tirelessly to support the young people.

Saturday September 26th 2015, 9.30 am -12 noon

THEATRE SCHOOL OPENS IN ROTHLEY Faces Arts is a young, dynamic Leicestershire based business, providing Performing Arts opportunities for children of all ages.

Formed in 2004 by proprietor Jody Chesterton, who is a graduate of the famous Ann Oliver Stage School, Faces Arts deliver Dance, Drama, Singing and Performance skills sessions in the Charnwood area.

Central to the Faces Arts portfolio of activities is The Theatre School. After huge success at Faces inaugural school based in Birstall, Faces Arts are proud to announce the opening of a second site, based at Rothley Primary School.

Youngsters from all around the County are invited to participate in classes of Dance, Drama and Singing, all under the instruction of a team of highly talented and experienced tutors, hand-picked to help develop the talent and confidence of the pupils.

All sessions are designed to allow pupils to develop not only their skills in each designated area, but also to improve self confidence, self esteem, co-ordination, fitness, concentration and awareness.

If you are interested in your child sampling a FREE taster session at the Faces Arts Theatre School in Rothley or for more information on the current range of sessions, contact Jody by e-mail at jody@ facesarts.co.uk or on 07971 423 201. For full details, please visit www.facesarts.co.uk

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The Wedding Feature...

Dresses, dresses and more dresses!

The summer has seen a record amount of couples tie the knot this year! Vintage weddings are still big news, however, the more traditional church wedding is making a come back away from the civil ceremonies at many hotels and licensed venues.

Bridal really can be anything you wish it to be however on the catwalks hues of pale blush and light golds over Ivory are in most designers collections. All over lace is simply everywhere with straps, full sleeves and low low sexy backs or totally lace filled in backs. High necklines through to strapless tight fishtails are still best sellers and the corset is and will always give any bride that so desired shape. Many gowns are becoming increasingly beaded all over, simply draped over the body together with an underslip in sheer satin or silk. The actual beaded overdress looks so comfortable over the top and clings to all the right places whilst swirling around the legs . Amazing! Some of my favourites are by ‘MAGGIE SOTTERO’ including: JADE, MELANIE, ETTIA (right) and SAVANAH MARIE to name but a few.

Then onto the ball gowns. They are becoming so fairytale like and full without being any ‘meringues’ sparkly tulle, clinched in waists and fitted bodices. Take a look at the gorgeous ‘EDDY K’ gown (left) or the ‘DISNEY TIANA’ gown on Bradgate Brides website. Petite girls gain shape and fuller girls hide the bits they usually don’t like..

Many brides don’t even think to try these on....please do , you never know you might surprise yourself how truly beautiful you feel in this shape of gown..

Bridesmaids for the past 12 months have no set pattern on the gowns they select whatsoever !

Any colour, any style! However 90% are in chiffon and are long rather than short at present or stretch Macaraine Jersey in a wrap around style.

You can make your Choice from literally any design from one shoulder/high sheer neck/strapless/ draped shoulders/ lace top/lace all over and so many other variations. The secret is perhaps the bride firstly choses the designer and colour and then the maids can wear whichever style they prefer.

We know from experience the difficulties in fitting a 5’2” maid size 16 into the same style as a 5’10” maid size 8. It will not be fair on one of them! So please brides keep in mind lots of extra fittings and alterations costs.

Happy dress trying on! We wish you all the best in finding your dream gown. If you have any bridal queries whatsoever, I would be more than happy to try and answer them. Please email me at info@bradgatebrides.com or of course pop into the salon where you will be made very welcome!

Susanne, Bradgate Brides

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Planning Your Big Day...

With so much to think about where do you start...? The budget... that’s where!

From the moment you have the ring on your finger the questions come flying in... When? Where? Dress? Cake?

Photographer? Car? And before you know it you’re into big numbers!

So be smart from the start... what are your priorities? What matters the most to you and your partner? The dress? The venue? The number of loved ones you want to share your big day with? The wisest thing to remember is compromise.

With your budget be smart - don’t start your married life with a huge debt over your heads as this can cause anxiety and stress. Remember you’re getting married for love and keep that at the heart of your plans.

One of the golden rules for planning your wedding is always have a contingency fund, some experienced wedding planners suggest that putting aside 10% is about right and always have some cash ready on the big day for those ‘just in case moments’ to prevent any extra stresses on the day.

Keep track of what you are spending and try and stick to your budget as closely as possible... everything costs money and all those little extras quickly mount up! It’s a good idea to open a

September / October 2015

new account to keep your wedding funds separate so you can easily keep an eye on your balance.

Always shop around and see what different businesses can offer you. You should both be 100% happy with all of the decisions made to avoid any arguments. For example go and have a look at your venue, then go home and have a think and chat about it before putting down a deposit.

So first step first... what’s your budget? Then decide your main priorities, decide how much you will spend on those 3 or 4 things and then divide the rest of your budget up accordingly.

It’s so easy to get swept away with all the fabulous things that there are on offer that it’s only too easy to overspend and then not have the money for the things further down the list like invitations or entertainment!

If you give yourself time to plan the perfect day for you and your fiancé, you’ll be able to enjoy putting it all together and as a result have a fabulous wedding day!

Good Luck & Enjoy!

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September On The GCR

As usual there is a variety of entertainment with events for children and the older generation.

There is also a varied selection of Dining Trains running throughout the month.

MIDWEEK RUNNING Wednesday 2nd 9th 16th and 23rd A two train service will be running on the first four Wednesday’s of the month.

THREE DAY AUTUMN DIESEL GALA Friday-Sunday 4th-6th This event is now three days with two guest engines, from the Gloucester Warwickshire Railway, Class 24 No D5081 (24081) this was the last of the class to be withdrawn in 1980 and Class 26 No 26007 (D5300) the first built of the class, in 1958, from Barrow Hill Engine Shed. There will be a busy timetable on Friday and an intensive one on Saturday and Sunday, with late running on Saturday evening normal fares apply.

SCI-FI WEEKEND Saturday and Sunday 12th and 13th This is a new event for the railway, Which will feature at Loughborough: Exterminate‌Daleks, Storm Trooper & R2D2 with photo opportunities throughout the day, face painting available and specialist sci-fi trade stands.

Look out for Dr Who characters on the train. At Quorn: Cybermen and other famous characters, Live Music Stage on the Saturday and on the Sunday DJ Star Trak and Moon Buggy also a Tardis. Also a costume competition.

Rothley: UNIT and Cybermen and a family friendly fun fair. Leicester North: Tardis, Cybermen and other famous characters and face painting. Food and drink available at all the stations.

SWAP MEET Sunday 13th This is the last one of the year of this very popular early start event at Quorn where you may find a bargain among the sellers of railway memorabilia whether locomotive nameplates, lamps, silverware, enamel signs, badges and much more. This is one of the longest running events of its kind in the country and will be back next year..

BEER FESTIVAL Thursday-Sunday 17th-20th This is the 9th year of this very popular event starting at midday on the Thursday and closes at around 5pm on the Sunday with 60 guest beers to choose from plus ciders.

The main bar is at Loughborough and entertainment, but smaller bars at Quorn Yard and Greenacres just down the drive at Leicester North, with slightly different opening times to Loughborough.

END OF SEASON ENGINE & CLASSIC VEHICLE WEEKEND Teddy will be with us for two more weeks, then more midweek running, a Mini Steam Weekend, Morris Minor Day and to round off the month during the Bank Holiday Weekend Peppa Pig and Brother George will be making another visit. There is a varied variety of Dining Trains to choose from with some extras.

DINING TRAINS There is the usual weekend selection and two Murder Mystery nights on the 11th and 25th, and a Pullman Wine Tasting on the 18th.

PREVIEW OF EVENTS IN OCTOBER One of the biggest events of the Year takes place on the first four days of the month, The Autumn Steam Gala, with visiting engines and engines from the home fleet to provide an intensive service especially during Saturday and Sunday. Also some midweek running, a Real Ale Train and Halloween Steam and Scream at the end of the month. A varied selection of Dining Trains will be available, but none will run during the steam gala.

EVENTS FOR OCTOBER: Autumn Steam GALA: 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th.

Real Ale Train: Saturday 17th Midweek Running: Wednesday 21st and 28th Halloween Steam and Scream: Saturday 31st For all the latest information visit the website at:

www.gcrailway.co.uk or phone Loughborough on 01509 632323 Dave Allen, Duty Station Master, Rothley.

PHOTO: Returning to the railway where it was restored over many years, BR Standard Class 9F 2-10-0 No 92212, now privately owned, visited the railway for the Woodford Halse 50 Gala and the three day Model Event in June, 92212 is seen approaching Rothley with a train for Leicester North on the Sunday of the Model Event.

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Crossword

This month's Easy Crossword...

ACROSS 1. The study of minute organisms (12) 9. Throttled (7) 10. Fire-breathing monster with body parts from various species (7) 11. Repeated word, repeated word, repeated word (9) 12. He was let go (5) 13. What you do with a boat. (7) 15. Surprises, shocks (6) 18. Term of office of an abbot (6) 20. Pus in pleural space (7) 24. More than, surplus (5) 25. Outstandingly bad (9) 27. Infection causing diarrhoea (7) 28. To wash clothes (7) 29. Grounds for immediate inference of truth of corresponding ____. Universal propositions in logic. (12)

DOWN 1. Sticky metal (6)

July / August Crossword Solution

2. The Queen’s favourite dog (5) 3. Used to make cookies, or eaten warm for breakfast (7) 4. Listing, of books perhaps. (8) 5. Grasshopper which swarms (6) 6. Serving to increase wealth (7) 7. Part of the brain (8) 8. Worst, most horrible (7) 14. Striving towards something (8) 16. Balanced rhythmic flow (7) 17. Something to keep the rain off your head (8) 19. French accommodation (7) 21. Fermented dairy product (7) 22. To fill with oxygen (6) 23. Takes power illegally (6) 26. Command (5)

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The Search Is On For Unsung Sporting Heroes Do you know an unsung local sporting hero who deserves recognition for their amazing achievement?

Then get your nominations in for the seventh annual Charnwood Sports Awards which celebrate the success of the people who make a difference in sport and physical activity in Charnwood.

Charnwood Borough Council organises and runs the event which last year saw an astonishing 102 nominations for great athletes, coaches, volunteers and projects – but this year we want to see even more!

Councillor Jonathan Morgan, the council’s Cabinet member for Community Cohesion, said: “These awards provide us with the perfect opportunity to celebrate the achievements of individuals who have made a real impact to sport across Charnwood.

“If you know someone who has excelled in all areas, gone above and beyond for their sport and shows exceptional dedication, I would encourage you to get nominating them.”

This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 30, at Burleigh Court, Loughborough. The deadline for nominations is 5pm on Friday, September 18.

The categories this year include: • Junior Sportsperson of the Year • Junior Volunteer of the Year • Junior Disabled Sportsperson of the Year • Junior Team of the Year • Senior Sportsperson of the Year • Senior Volunteer of the Year • Senior Disabled Sportsperson of the Year • Senior Team of the Year • Coach of the Year • Club of the Year • Outstanding Contribution to School Sport • Outstanding Contribution to Physical Activity and Sport • Best Community Sport & or Physical Activity Project To nominate online and to find out more about the awards visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/sportsawardsnomination .

Further information is also available by visiting www.charnwood.gov.uk/sportsawards or emailing will.blanche@ charnwood.gov.uk, chris.andrews@charnwood.gov.uk or by calling 01509 634592.

Taking Centre Stage This Autumn..... “If the River was Whiskey” Join Holymoly & The Crackers in cabaret for an evening of lively music, tall tales of hard liquor in Quorn Village Hall on Saturday, October 10th courtesy of Leicestershire’s Rural Touring Theatre Scheme.

The perfect collision of rowdy music, dancing, storytelling and drinking, the wrangling folk-band lead you through the tale of Willie O’Connell whose love affair with whiskey leads him away from home and into the path of maltsoaked Scots, wild women and old American moonshiners.

Part gig and part story, this medley of original songs and old-time drinking tunes ( best enjoyed with a wee glass in hand ) is a visceral blend of searing folk/blues sounds wound with a classic and tragic tale of a young man looking for his place in the world; If The River Was Whiskey is an evening filled with singing, laughing, dancing and drinking as the six-piece band take you on a thrilling and hilarious journey.

Holymoly & The Crackers are a nationally acclaimed six-piece gypsy folk band; their music has been featured by the BBC, Amazing Radio and leading critic Mike Harding. They play a lively moonshine mix of Romani, Americana and contemporary British folk music.

“They astounded the audience with their folk waltzy fun ... they have an incredible sound. 5*****” - Edfest Magazine For enquiries and bookings contact Terry Stirling tel. 01509 414287, email: terrystirling@ntlworld.com Tickets are £10 with cabaret-style seating, so bring your own drinks and glasses. The show starts at 7.30pm (doors 7pm) .

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What’s On

Grand Central Chorus “Open Evening” Wednesday 7th October Grand Central Chorus, an East Midlands Mens Barbershop Chorus, who are five-time UK Champions, invite interested singers and potential members to come along to their rehearsal at 7.15pm on Wednesday 7th October and experience the ringing sounds of four-part harmony and learn more about the wonderful hobby of barbershop harmony!

Full details on website: www.grandcentralchorus.com Harrington Junior School, Derby Road, Long Eaton, NG10 4BJ (5 minutes from J25 M1).

ugh

Loughboro

The Friends of Charnwood Forest present:

The Great Central Railway

- A talk by Tom Ingall Monday 21st September at 7.30pm.

Tom Ingall grew up in Leicestershire and now works for the B.B.C. in Yorkshire. He has been a volunteer at Great Central Railway for 25 years.

The Great Central Railway opened in 1899, the last main line built in Britain. It was developed from earlier lines, notably the Midland, Sheffield & Lincolnshire (MS&L) irreverently known as Money Sunk and Lost!

Between Leicester and Loughborough the GCR passed close to Charnwood Forest and encountered a landscape of particular beauty, including Bradgate, Swithland Reservoir and the tree covered south-eastern part of Charnwood. Our speaker will tell you much more!

Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall. All are welcome. Members attend free. Visitors pay £3 including refreshments.

Further information from Peter Bertram, telephone: 0116 2100572 or visit the website: www.focf.org.uk

16th September 2015

WALK: Brandon Marsh Loughborough RSPB Local Group have a Wildlife Walk at Brandon Marsh at 10am until 12 noon. Meet at the car park – SP386761.

4th October 2015

TRIP: Gibraltar Point, Lincolnshire Loughborough RSPB Local Group invite you to join them on a coach trip to Gibraltar Point NNR reserve in Lincolnshire. Depart from Loughborough University at 8.00 am, fare £20 plus admission to the reserve. Booking is essential for this trip.

9th October 2015

TALK: Wildlife Wonders of Cornwall Loughborough RSPB Local Group present a talk on the Wildlife Wonders of Cornwall by Jack Perks. This talk takes us through the Cornish countryside, above and below water to see some of its stunning birdlife, scenery and marine life.. The talk will be held in the Lecture Theatre at the Brockington Building Loughborough University at 7.45pm. Price: £3 Group Members, £3.50 Non members, LU Students with SU card gratis.

15th October 2015

WALK: Wildlife Walk at Calke Park

Charnwood Orchestra Concert Saturday 26th September 2015, 7:30pm Charnwood Orchestra will return to Holy Trinity Church with its annual concert.

If you enjoy Classic FM then you will love this year’s programme. The evening starts with Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll, that unbelievably romantic work composed by Wagner as a birthday present to his wife, Cosima after the birth of their son Siegfried in 1869. It was first performed on Christmas morning, 1870, by a small orchestra on the stairs of their villa in Switzerland. Cosima awoke to its opening melody.

Following the Idyll we hear Mozart’s Violin concerto no 5 with the wonderful Simon Smith playing the solo part.

After the interval you can sit back and let shivers run up your spine with Fratres by the Estonian composer Arvo Pärt. It is a mesmerising set of variations on a six-bar theme combining frantic activity and sublime stillness and spirituality. Again Simon Smith plays the violin solo accompanied by Charnwood Orchestra’s string players and percussion.

The final work of the evening is Haydn’s Symphony No 100, the “Military”.

Tickets can be bought from The Paper Shop at £10, £9 (concessions) and £3 for accompanied children under 16. Or contact Judith on judithrodgers155@gmail.com or 07718 153117.

Loughborough RSPB Local Group have a Wildlife Walk Calke Park at 10am until 12 noon. Meet at the car park SK375227 Full details of all of the events including finding the venue, booking the trips etc can be found on the group’s website:

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What’s On

ton FILM NIGHT: Thurcaston & Crops Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”

Friday 11th September - 122 mins.

During the three years since our first “Exotic Marigold Hotel”, the proprietor, Sonny, has found a girlfriend on whom he dotes. Co-manager, Muriel, played by Maggie Smith, assists with the hotel expansion. The wonderful performances by Judi Dench and Bill Nighy are enhanced by Richard Gere to produce a hilarious but touching drama.

“The Imitation Game” Friday 16th October - 114 mins.

October’s film is set in Bletchley Park during the Second World War when Alan Turing, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, amazingly breaks the Enigma Code. This film is a “must” for our cinema goers.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm. There will be refreshments and a lucky prize draw. Advanced tickets may be purchased via the parish office 0116 236 7626 or at the door.

Diana

Whitwick & District U3A

The first General Meeting of the autumn for Whitwick and District U3A will be on Friday 18th September. As thoughts turn towards activities which are engaging and sociable for the cooler months, our U3A can offer many opportunities. From the Art Group to five Walking Groups, we have forty varied Interest Groups to keep you busy and entertained no matter what the season.

Our speaker for the September General Meeting is Dr Malcolm Glasse. His talk has the intriguing title: Why does rubber bounce?

To discover the answer and to find out more about Whitwick and District U3A, come along to St. David’s Church Hall, Broomleys, Coalville. Please arrive at 1.45 for a 2.00pm start.

Alternatively, visit our website at: www.whitwicku3a.org.uk where comprehensive details are available.

Newtown Linford Scarecrow Festival Weekend The popular Newtown Linford Scarecrow Weekend will be taking place on 26th and 27th September 2015. During that weekend, the village will come to life, showcasing an array of scarecrows, on display in front gardens and in our new ‘scarecrow patch’. In addition, there will be activities throughout the weekend, such as Morris dancers, our school fete, and stalls selling various items. The village will be buzzing with people, so why not take the opportunity to enjoy a stroll in our beautiful Newtown Linford and go for a walk through some enchanting English countryside.

The scarecrows are on display all Saturday and Sunday and programmes will be available to guide you through the village providing further details on the various scarecrows. The scarecrows are judged and prizes are awarded at the end of the festival. The public is invited to vote for their favourite scarecrow – the programme will include a voting form. We would love you to get involved in the judging of the ‘people’s choice’.

The local school holds their school fete on Saturday 26th September. On Sunday, the village hall will be the centre of the festival with various stalls and serving refreshments. If you would like to have a stall on the Sunday, we will be charging £10 per stall (£5 for charities) - and then your earnings are your own. Likewise, if you would like to advertise in the scarecrow weekend programme, please get in touch to provide us with a copy of your advert so that we can include it in the programme.

If you would like to have a stall, advertise, or talk a bit more about the event, please contact Chris via email at chris@wroe.co.uk or Beate at beatehelmke@web.de (or tel. 01530 245198). We need to have final details from you by 8th September 2015.

We look forward to seeing you at the festival.

Beate & Chris September / October 2015

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Theatre School Opening In Rothley Faces Arts is a young, dynamic Leicestershire based business, providing Performing Arts opportunities for children of all ages.

Formed in 2004 by proprietor Jody Chesterton, who is a graduate of the famous Ann Oliver Stage School, Faces Arts deliver Dance, Drama, Singing and Performance skills sessions in the Charnwood area.

Central to the Faces Arts portfolio of activities is The Theatre School. After huge success at Faces inaugural school based in Birstall, Faces Arts are proud to announce the opening of a second site, based at Rothley Primary School.

Youngsters from all around the County are invited to participate in classes of Dance, Drama and Singing, all under the instruction of a team of highly talented and experienced tutors, hand-picked to help develop the talent and confidence of the pupils.

All sessions are designed to allow pupils to develop not only their skills in each designated area, but also to improve self confidence, self esteem, co-ordination, fitness, concentration and awareness.

If you are interested in your child sampling a FREE taster session at the Faces Arts Theatre School in Rothley or for more information on the current range of sessions, contact Jody by e-mail at jody@facesarts.co.uk or on 07971 423 201. For full details, please visit www.facesarts.co.uk

Thurcaston & Cropston Brownies & Guides

Snowy Owl tells us what the brownies & guides have been up to in the last 12 months...

We submitted ‘decorated plant pots’ and ‘animals made from natural materials’ in the horticultural show at Thurcaston.

Some Guides and Brownies won prizes which were presented at our following meeting. During the Autumn term we worked towards the Communicator Badge by learning the phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie… etc). The Guides sent emails and texts to their leaders to prove they could use these systems .

We then learnt how communication is altered if you are blind or deaf with the help of experts. We all tried sign language for the deaf and the Braille alphabet for the blind, and learned about life as a teenager coping with deafness or life with a guide dog.

We interspersed badge work with cooking on wood fires (Guides only), a trip to the swimming pool, and as Remembrance Sunday approached, we welcomed speakers from Anstey British Legion with their fascinating photos and stories of the World Wars. We made our own poppies from felt and attended the Remembrance Service at Thurcaston Church.

Luckily the weather was kind to us when we celebrated Bonfire night with fireworks, food and singing. For the Communicator badge, we were also learning Spanish words and phrases helped by a mum of one of our Brownies, but we also tried various Spanish foods such as churros and chocolate sauce, lemony biscuits and tortilla omelette.

As we neared Christmas, we made very pretty Angels for the tree. We really enjoyed our trip to the pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, at Loughborough Town Hall and finished the term with separate Christmas parties including dancing and games such as, the always popular, Chocolate Six and pass the parcel with forfeits.

The girls had requested to ‘Put on a show’ so Brown Owl, was busy over the holidays working on our own version of Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat. The Spring term began with auditions and then lots of rehearsing for the girls. Costume production went into full swing, as well as making props and creating the scenery. We must not forget the help of several Dads for working the sound system, the video camera, and making a wooden cell to imprison Joseph. So the Spring term ended with our performance, to parents and friends, of a very professional attempt at Joseph with the Guides starring as the lead characters and the Brownies doing a super job as dancers and supporting chorus. The audience seemed unaware that there were only ten brothers, not twelve, on stage as the Guides had other parts to play. In the finale, a huge gasp could be heard as the magnificent coloured coat was unfurled to close the show.

We started the summer term re-living the Joseph performance on DVD and pretended we were at the cinema by eating popcorn too. The badge for this term was Animal Active and the girls brought in and talked about the care of their own pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits and even a bearded dragon (lizard). We learned about the care of horses and experienced grooming the horses Edward and Oscar and picking up the pooh. Thank you to Marion & friends at Swithland.

On the hottest evening of the year the girls and leaders brought along their dogs and met at Bradgate Park to experience dog training with Lindsey from Animal Aid. We also took part in doggy relay races with eggs and spoons too. We also had various outside activities such as swimming, scavenger hunt and a cook out. Thanks to the work of Leicestershire Orienteering Club, the girls ran around the permanent white or yellow courses in Castle Hill, Anstey. The Guides helped the Leaders to collect £107 for Barnado’s. We started on crafts for the 2015 village show by making dream catchers.

Five Guides, who are working towards their Baden-Powell award, ran a Pin the Tail on the Donkey stall at the Church fete. These girls also organised two Wet and Wild sessions for the Brownies and then the Guides, so that the term finished with water bombs, super soakers and lots of fun.

We meet on Wednesday evenings at Richard Hill Primary School, Anstey Lane. Thurcaston.

Brownie time is 6pm until 7.15pm followed by the Guides 7.15 pm until 8.30pm.

Brownies start at 7 years old and Guides from 10 years. Costs are £25 per term, mainly spent on hiring the school hall, but in the Spring term we also have to pay an extra £25 each, the annual census, directly to Girl Guiding UK, in order to belong to the Guiding movement.

We have spaces for Brownies, Guides and helpers. More information from the following people: Brownies, Louise Keran: 07711 422350 | Guides Christine Miranda: 0116 2364293.

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GB Women’s American Football Five ladies from Leicestershire have made history this month by representing Great Britain Women’s American Football team in the International Federation of American Football’s inaugural European Championships for Women.

Taking place in Granada, Spain, Jo Kilby and Nena Killick from Aston Flamville, Steph De-Haven from Ellistown, Sophie Etheridge from Hinckley and Katie Davenport from South Wigston all contributed to a remarkable tournament that saw Great Britain, seeded sixth of six participating teams, finish the Championships as Silver medal winners, only ceding to the number one ranked team from Finland.

“We came into this tournament, our first ever, as very much the new kids on the block” commented Quarterback Kilby, “we’ve only been playing two years and were the least experienced and established team in attendance, we were also the only team that had to qualify for the tournament.”

Indeed they did, Great Britain had to play off against Russia in May to earn the right to take the sixth spot in the competition, behind automatic qualifiers Finland, Germany, Sweden, Austria and hosts Spain.

A crushing 54-6 win against the Russian Federation catapulted Great Britain into the Championships and whilst the team were confident they would perform admirably, no one expected them to beat number two seeds Germany in their first outing, nor number three seeds, Sweden, two days later, but they did, 17-6 and 30-16 respectively.

With Finland going great guns in Group B, a Great Britain showdown against Europe’s longstanding power-house was scheduled, and whilst the final fairy tale conclusion was not meant to be, Great Britain successfully won hearts and minds with their endeavour, spirit and battling ways. To take away a medal in their first ever competitive outing was a wondrous return for these five, as well as the rest of their forty team-mates, the sport and their governing body, the British American Football Association, who have supported the venture with great enthusiasm from inception.

The five Leicestershire ladies, who all play for club side, Birmingham Lions, will now take six well-earned weeks rest before jumping back in to their domestic season, where they will look to defend their British title. If you know someone (17yrs+) who might like to play Women’s American Football then please visit www.facebook.com/BhamLionsWM or www. birminghamlions.co.uk/womens for more information or to make enquires.

Photo top: GB Team ©Plastow Photography (plastowphotography.com) Photo right: Birmingham Lions - ©Derviller Photography (simonderviller.com)

St Margarets Co-operative Bowling Club

Sunday 9th August was a perfect summer’s day, as well as being a special occasion in the calendar of St. Margaret’s Co-operative Bowls Club. On that afternoon the “President’s Day” celebration was held. There was a short game of bowls, some charity fundraising and a beautiful sit-down meal.

The event was hosted by Pat Allen, this year’s club Lady President, to give an opportunity to thank all the people who had played a part in making the year such a success. Her special guest for the day was her husband Peter Allen who is the current men’s club President. The couple are pictured left.

The Allens, long term Birstall residents, took up bowls four years ago. Pat Allen explained, “We just fancied something a bit new and were not looking to get involved but we were attracted by the warm welcome even though we were complete novices. After we had been down a few times, we were invited to play some friendlies and things took off from there.

We just seemed to fit in.”

Pat went on to say, “Before I retired I worked on payroll, mostly for local concerns but I also used to organise company social events. We do lots of events at the bowls club and it really has been great fun planning these.” Peter worked as a wood machinist, fitting kitchens and bars in the locality.

Like his wife, his skills were easily transferred to the club situation. A club member said, “The Allens have had a fantastic year. They are both great workers and a huge force for good in the club”.

Pat was presented with cards and gifts including a clematis, fittingly enough called “The President”.

The bowls season finishes at the end of September, so there is still time for anyone wanting to give it a try. Please ring Carolyn or John on 0116 2675947. Club details at www.smcbc.com.

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The Admirable Crichton TWELFTH NIGHT The New Quorndon Shakespeare Company will be presenting J.M. Barrie’s The Admirable Crichton in Quorn Village Hall in October. This charming story follows the upper-class Loam family and their servants as, shipwrecked on a desert island, they are unexpectedly faced with a very Darwinian experience.

The company is hoping to find an Edwardian drawing room to rehearse in to help them evoke the atmosphere of the London scenes. Rehearsals are well underway for this funny and delightful play and tickets can be reserved by emailing nqsc@ymail.com or purchased on line at www.nqsc.org.uk Performances of this entertaining production are on Thursday 22nd, Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th October 2015 at Quorn Village Hall. Tickets will be priced at £8.

The Company gave Guy French, playing the title role, a taste of what it might be like to butle in the tropics with a visit to Tropical Birdland in Desford. Unfortunately the rain was torrential and the tropical birds a bit damp but Guy rose to the occasion and found the experience ‘interesting’.

Outdoor Theatre Performance

Saturday 12th September at 7pm Bring the family, bring a picnic, relax and enjoy a the magic of outdoor theatre within the beautiful grounds of Grace Dieu Manor School.

William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night will be performed by the renowned touring theatre group, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. Tickets: Family (2 x Adults + 2 Children) £35, Adult £12, Children £8.

The grounds will open for picnics from 5.30pm. Tickets are only available from Grace Dieu Manor School Reception 01530 222276 (cheque or cash only).

THERE IS LIMITED AVAILABILITY FOR THIS EVENT!

Modern History Talks On the following dates, Dr Michael Lynch, Modern History Lecturer (Rtd.) at Leicester University, will continue his greatly appreciated talk series at the Rothley Centre, with another four subjects, which will intrigue and inform his audience.

Tuesday 7th October: “Human Rights” Tuesday 3rd November: “Putin’s Russia” Tuesday 1st December: “The Democratic Vote System” Tuesday 2nd February 2016: “The Magna Carta” The doors will be open by 6:30pm with the talk commencing at 7:30pm and there is plenty of free parking at the centre.

There will be a tea/coffee interval at around 8:30pm and after a questions and answers session, the talks will conclude at 9:30pm.

The talks are always well attended and so to be sure of your place, please call Norman Pratt on 0116 237 5254 to book.

Ticket price is £8 per person and you may pay on the door.

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Seeking relatives Friday 18th September 2015, 2pm

Son of Far East Prisoner of War to give talk on 1st Btn Leicestershire Regiment!

To commemorate the 70th anniversary year of VJ Day Ken Hewitt will be giving an illustrated talk on the findings of his research into the 1st Battalion Leicestershire Regiment during the Malaya Campaign and subsequent captivity as Far East Prisoners of War (FEPOWs).

He is trying to contact as many relatives of 1st Battalion FEPOWs as possible to invite them to the talk which is to be held at the Belmont Hotel, Leicester.

His father C/Sgt JT Hewitt served with the regiment and research into his father’s military career led to Ken spending the last 5 years researching all 934 men of the 1st Battalion during the period 1941-45. He is now keen to share the knowledge he has gained with other FEPOW relatives and others who may be interested.

For further details please contact Ken Hewitt on 01279 834415 or by email at: kenhewitt@ntlworld.com www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

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OUT AND ABOUT Saturday 05 September 2015 FESTIVAL: LEICESTER PRIDE ‘Leicester Pride’ is Leicester’s annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) festival. The event attracts thousands of people from across the country. It’s a really fun family day out with a great afterparty for those of you that love to dance the night away if you head into the city.

As usual the exciting and vibrant parade will start at 12 noon from The Curve Theatre, making its way to Victoria Park at 1pm. There will be plenty of stalls, rides, food, drink and entertainment including this years Headlining Act Sam Bailey!

Check out the website for more information:

www.leicesterpride.com

Sunday 06 September 2015, 10am - 4pm

Quorn Food & Craft Festival

A variety of stalls will be located in the village, at The Cross, on The Banks and in the Church Rooms.

There will also be a charity raffle in aid of Hope Against Cancer.

Tickets will be on sale ahead of the event in local shops & on the day. 1st Prize £500.

Quorn Church Rooms, The Banks & Quorn Cross. Enquiries: quornvillageevents@gmail.com

Copt Oak Car Boot Sale

Saturday 05 September 2015, 9am - 12 noon Car Boot Sale including homemade cake stall, refreshments and a raffle.

Cars £5, all other vehicles £8. Entrance 50p (children admitted free of charge). Ample free parking. All proceeds in aid of St. Peter’s Church Copt Oak. Booking not essential but for further details or to book a place please contact Jan: 0116 2674746.

Copt Oak Memorial Hall Field, Whitwick Road, LE67 9QB.

Monday 31 August | National Forest Wood Fair The Wood Fair is an annual celebration of timber, trees and woodcrafts, an action-packed day with lumberjacks, chainsaw carvers, wood mizers and horseloggers. You can have a go at eco art, cheer on the log to leg race, hitch a ride on a tree lift and hear stories from the Wild Man of the Woods. There’s lots of fun for the kids! Adults £9, concessions £6, under 5s free and a family ticket £25. www.nationalforest.org/visit/woodfair/tickets/ | 9am - 5pm | Beacon Hill, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire LE12 8SP

Tuesday 01 September | Rothley Ladies Circle 01 Sept: Dave Warnock: Dave ,on Sabatical and his cycling to Iona plus | 05 Sept: Rev.Rachel Parkinson : Harvest (taken in church) 29 Sept: Peter Tyldesley :Warden to Bradgate Park | 13 Oct: Joyce Godfrey :Both sides of the counter | 27 Oct: Sue Wainwright :Origins of salt £6 to join plus a £1 each time you come,visitors £2 | For information call Pam Floyd 01162374111 | Meet: Howe Lane, Rothley

Wednesday 02 September | Rise and Shine Musical Theatre Class New musical theatre classes for children aged 7-12 including dance, drama and singing. £3 per session | 4:40-5:30pm 7-9 years | 5:30-6:20pm 10-12 years | Contact riseandshine.music@hotmail.com or call/text 07536088381 for details | Quorn Church Rooms

Friday 04 September | CONCERT: Staunton Harold Church An organ recital is being held on the historic 17th Century Organ at Staunton Harold Church, originally by Christian Schmidt. Given

by Laurence Rogers. Organist Emeritus, Melbourne Parish Church. Followed by refreshments. Retiring collection 7.30pm | Staunton Harold Church, Leicestershire | Parking in the Lion Court car park, courtesy of Mr and Mrs J. Blunt.

Saturday 05 September | GUIDED WALK: The Geology of Bradgate Hear about Bradgate Park some 600 million years ago – a story of seas, volcanoes, mountains, deserts, glaciers, earthquakes, sun and rain. John Martin, a geology expert, will look at the rock outcrops which contain the oldest group of rocks in England and explain their fascinating story. This walk of is over grass and is, in places, over steep, rocky slopes. Unsuitable for people in wheelchairs. Dogs on leads are allowed.

Adults: £3, children: £1.50 (under 5’s FREE) | Meet at pole gate leading into wood at Hunts Hill (Old John) Car Park | Approx.2½ hours | 2:30pm - 5pm

Saturday 05 September | Thurcaston & Cropston: 32nd Annual Garden, Craft & Produce Show To be held at the Richard Hill Primary School, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston. Show schedules now available. For more information, please call Dave Haddon on (0116) 235 9758.

Wednesday 09 - Saturday 19 September | MUSICAL: Hairspray At Curve Curve’s production of the smash hit musical comedy Hairspray, directed by Paul Kerryson, is back and is guaranteed to have you dancing the night away! Don’t miss this all-star cast in an irresistible feel-good show that will have you smiling for days - let your hair down and book now!

Various times | Tickets: £16.50 - £38 | www.curveonline.co.uk | 60 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1SB | Tel: 0116 242 3560

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LOCAL EVENTS Saturday 12 September | Sounds Like Swing Come and join Sounds Like Swing for another trip down memory lane and enjoy an evening of nostalgia listening and dancing to songs from the Fifties and Sixties. Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall, 7.30 pm for 8 pm start, bring your own snacks, drinks and glasses.

Contact dee.patterson@live.co.uk or telephone 01509 891090 for more information and tickets - £7.50 each.

Saturday 12 September | Living History Weekend at Bradgate Park Bradgate played an active part in the English Civil War with the Earl of Stamford and his son, Lord Grey, being senior figures in the Parlimentarian Army. Members of Lord Grey’s Regiment of Foote, part of the Sealed Knot, will recreate the lives of members of the Regiment and its followers through a living history encampment, displays and mock skirmishes to show the Regiment in action.

There will also be performances of music of the period, played on authentic period instruments, in the Ruins of Bradgate House.

Held in the ruins of Bradgate House | www.bradgatepark.org | FREE admission (Parking Charges apply) | 9am - 6pm

Thursday 17, Friday 18, Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 September | Beer Festival Come and enjoy the Beer Festival on The Great Central railway! Drink on the move or stand and watch the trains go by! Over 60 real ales and ciders, live music on Friday night, Saturday and Sunday, food available, Trains will be running on each day (until late afternoon). Take a trip down memory lane on Saturday & Sunday to Quorn & Woodhouse station; there’s a variety of traction engines, plus classic and vintage vehicles, on display. It costs just £3 to enter but best of all it’s FREE to anyone buying a ticket to travel on the steam trains that weekend! With live music and hot food on offer it’s set to be a great weekend.

Open from midday each day | Loughborough Central Station, LE11 1RW | 01509 632323 | www.gcrailway.co.uk

Thursday 17 September | Quorn Gardening Club A talk by Colin Olle entitled “The History of the National Gardens Scheme”. Quorn Gardening Club meets on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 19.30 in the Church Rooms, and always welcomes guests, an entrance charge of £5.00 will be made for nonmembers, which includes tea/coffee. Individual annual membership is £35.00.

Friday 18 September | Pankaj Udhas At De Montfort Hall After a sell out concert in 2014, Pankaj Udhas is back by public demand to mesmerise the audience once again, with top musicians from India as never seen before.

8pm | De Montfort Hall, Granville Rd, Leicester LE1 7RU | Tel: 0116 233 3111 | Tickets: £25 - £45

Sunday 19 & Sunday 20 September | Open Church Weekends at St Leonard’s Church St Leonard’s Church, Main Street, Swithland, will be open for tea and cakes on the following dates from 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm.

Saturday 26 September | Messy Church All Children welcome whatever the age - carers, parents, grandparents, Aunts and Uncles etc come and join in the fun of craft activities, fun, friendship and share a meal together. The forth Saturday of the month. Donations are to be given.

3 - 5pm | Methodist Hall, Howe Lane, Rothley | For more info please ring Sue Wainwright on 07585 557548

Saturday 26 September | Alice In Wonderland Fun Day We’re taking over the children’s area at Leicester Central Library to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland. Why not have a go at writing your own poetry inspired by the classic tale, or try your hand at making the best mad hat? There’ll be plenty of giggles at our very own laughter therapy workshop. We’ll be ending the celebrations in style with a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Don’t forget to dress up - there’ll be a prize for the best fancy dress costume.

1pm - 3:45pm | Adult £3.50, Child £2.50 & Family £10 (up to three children), Booking essential by visiting leicesterwrites.co.uk or by emailing f.shaikh@dahliapublishing.co.uk | Leicester Central Library, Bishop St, Leicester LE1 6AA

Saturday 26 September | Ashby Concert Band With an emphasis on the musicals, this selection of film music looks set to be a very enjoyable evening. Tickets are available from band members or on the door.

The Palace Theatre, High Street, Ibstock, Leicestershire LE67 6LH | 7.30 pm | Tel: 01530 262400

Sunday 27 September | Heritage Sundays At Leicester Castle & The Great Hall A wonderful opportunity to visit some of Leicester’s beautiful historic buildings, normally closed to the public. On the last Sundays of the month, the Magazine, Leicester Castle and Wygston’s House are open to the public, with visitors invited to explore the buildings on their own or book onto a guided tour with an expert Blue Badge guide. The tour for Leicester Castle will look at the buildings around Castle Yard including the Great Hall of Leicester Castle, St Mary de Castro church, Castle House and Castle Motte. £2.50 per building or £6 for all three tours on the same day | 11am - 3pm | www.visitleicester.info/heritagesundays

Wednesday 07 October | Grand Central Chorus “Open Evening” Grand Central Chorus, an East Midlands Mens Barbershop Chorus , and who are five-time UK Champions, invite interested singers and potential members and to come along to their rehearsal at 7.15pm on Wednesday 7th October at Harrington Junior School , Derby Road Long Eaton NG10 4BJ (5 minutes from J25 M1) experience the ringing sounds of four-part harmony and learn more about the wonderful hobby of barbershop harmony! Full details on our website: www.grandcentralchorus.com September / October 2015

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THE BRADGATE DIRECTORY

CLOTHING & JEWELLERY Bradgate Brides.............................. 33 Caroline James............................... 37 Cathy Stephens Jewellery............... 55 Crown Jewellers.............................. 35 Elegance......................................... 11 EDUCATION Anstey Kumon Centre..................... 30 Brookvale Groby Learning Campus.... 28 Faces Arts....................................... 30 Grace Dieu Manor School............... 29 Rawlins Community College........... 31 Woodhouse Day Nursery................ 30 FLORISTS & GIFTS Cherry Tree Gifts............................. 42 The Flower Shop............................. 35 Holywell Petals............................... 35 FOOD, DRINK & VENUES Chapter One................................... 40 Free Cooking Sessions.................... 31 George Inn...................................... 40 Imago Hotels.................................. 40 The Manor House........................... 41 Occasions Tea Room....................... 35 Quorn Country Hotel...................... 34 Quorn Grange Hotel....................... 32 Vintage Tea Parties......................... 42 Woodcock Farm Shop..................... 25 GARDEN Belvoir Sawmill & Forest Products.... 25 Birstall Garden Centre.................... 18 Delegate Services............................. 4 Garden Blueprints............................ 4 H20 Design..................................... 21 Harrison Landscaping....................... 5 LB Grounds Maintenance............... 54 LB Landscaping............................... 27 Leicestershire Garden Design......... 39 Outdoor Solutions............................ 4 Total Tree Services.......................... 25

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HAIR & BEAUTY Aqua Hair........................................ 36 Charlotte’s Beauty Retreat............. 36 Elan Hair Design............................. 32 Zoe’s Mobile Hairdressing............. .42 HEALTH Charnwood Hearing Centre............ 57 Charnwood Physiotherapy............. 57 HOME Absolute Window Solutions............. 2 Ancient & Modern............................ 4 A-Rated Glazing................................ 6 Ashby Decorators Centre.................. 8 Broughtons....................................... 8 Charn. Oaks Roofing & Building...... 20 Charnwood Kitchens...................... 24 Chris’ Oven Cleaning........................ 4 Clock Doctor..................................... 4 Cupboard Love............................... 36 CV Lane............................................. 6 DeVol...................................... 14 + 15 DG Plumbing................................... 57 DP Furnishings................................ 35 Evans Fireplaces............................. 27 The Flooring & Bed Company......... 11 G & D Property Services................. 21 Glenfield Electrical............................ 4 Glenwood Interiors........................... 8 Graham Botterill............................... 4 Hassall & Son Ltd.............................. 6 Holme Tree Kitchens....................... 38 Keller Construction........................... 5 Light House..................................... 27 Loft Storage Solutions...................... 3 Logburners Ltd.................................. 3 Martin Allen Flooring....................... 6 MDW Fireplaces............................... 7 MGAS.............................................. 20 Quality Flooring Services................ 42 RJ Rowley........................................ 21

HOME continued...

RSJ Roofing....................................... 7 Shuttleworth Decorators................ 20 Simon Shuttlewood Upholstery...... 57 Splashout........................................ 59 Squirrels......................................... 35 UK Gas Services................................ 3 Watson’s Electrical........................... 4 Wreake Valley Flooring................... 38 LEISURE Park & Ride..................................... 58 Roberts Travel Group...................... 51 MOTORS Cropston Garage............................. 57 Premier Airport Taxis...................... 51 Top Gear Services........................... 51 PETS Anstey Cattery................................ 42 Glebe Von Wood............................ 42 Havers Raw Dog Food..................... 42 The Veterinary Surgery................... 42 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CP Accountants............................... 31 Dodds Solicitors LLP........................ 25 Lee Cooper Funeral Directors......... 24 Leicestershire Registration Services... 32 Prusinski Solicitors.......................... 54 Roy Green Estate Agents................ 60 Secretary Angel................................ 7

To advertise in The Bradgate contact Ed: email: editor@ thebradgatemagazine.co.uk call: 01530 249589 or see our media pack

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