The Bradgate Magazine May 2014

THE BRADGATE MAGAZINE

Bradgate

The

May / June 2014

magazine

Gardening Galore Open Garden Season Has Arrived!

MAY / JUNE 2014 | ISSUE 8

FOSTERING Could You Make Space In Your Life?

ANYONE FOR BOWLS? WWW.THEBRADGATEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ENTERTAINMENT A Country Fair, May Day Spectacular, Summer Concert, Canal Festival, Music In The Park & So Much More...

Your Local Community Magazine May / June 2014

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FROM THE EDITOR

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Welcome

everyone to May and June’s edition of The Bradgate Magazine.

This month we’re happily promoting the raft of ‘open garden days’ coming up over the next month or so, where fabulously green-fingered people showcase their wonderful gardens to you, the general public. Newtown Lindford has six gardens on show come Bank Holiday Monday 26th May with more gardens in Woodhouse Eaves (7th June), Thurcaston and Cropston (over the weekend of 28th and 29th June) to follow; see page 23 for more details.

Our main feature this edition is on the Charnwood district town of Syston. A bustling little place, Syston is home to a variety of interesting shops and businesses, as well as some independent gems nestled here and there. Add to that a fascinating local history and we think this pretty parish is well worth a visit – take a look at page 42 to 47 to see what you think.

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In this day and age more than ever we are told the individual is King, but at The Bradgate, we believe the community is – with this in mind have you ever thought about volunteering? A truly wonderful way to give something back to people perhaps less fortunate than ourselves or who simply need a bit of a helping hand from time to time – we feature articles about Foster Care Fortnight (on page 37) and charity, Contact the Elderly (page 10), both of which are seeking much-needed help at present.

With lots going on as our summer months start to kick in and warm up, take a look at the activities on offer across pages 53-57, if you have a little free time on your hands we think there’s a little something for everyone, so what are you waiting for? Take a look and get outdoors, our Leicestershire is beautiful afterall !

May / June 2014

CONTENTS 10 COMBAT LONELINESS A Loughborough Charity is looking for YOU to relieve loneliness amongst older people

23 GARDENING GALORE May brings beginning of the open garden season 34 LOCAL YOUTH NEWS School updates, Foster Care fortnight & activities for young folk

42 SYSTON TOWN Learn about the history and discover what modern day Syston can offer you

48 BEAUTY SECRETS Find out what skin care products make the cut with local beauty expert Maria De-Rito

Ed & the team CONTACT US: Follow us on

editor@thebradgatemagazine.co.uk | 01530 249589 | www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk @TheBradgateMag

The Bradgate Magazine

The Bradgate

ADVERTISING: For anyone wishing to advertise in The Bradgate please contact the editor for prices, deadlines & offers!

Our Disclaimer: Reasonable care is taken to ensure that The Bradgate Magazine and website are as accurate as possible, as of the May / June 2014 9 time of publication, but no liability can be taken by The Bradgate Magazine for any errors, opinions or omissions contained herein.

Charity News

LOCAL CADETS UGH MORE THAN £2,500 VE & LARAISE

Vix Big Match

LIVE, LO

The motto ‘live, love and laugh’ will be brought to life in Leicester for a day of family rugby fun, raising funds in memory of Vicky Galbraith (below), long time Leicestershire resident and Scottish international rugby player, who lost her fight with cancer at the age of 40 almost a year ago.

Aylestone St James Rugby Club will be the venue for “Vix Big Match” on Sunday 4th May to help fund the work of the Brain Tumour Charity.

After her diagnosis of a terminal brain tumour in 2011, Vicky worked tirelessly to raise funds for a variety of charities, including taking part in marathons, triathlons and a world record breaking long distance relay run.

Event organiser Nena Killick said “Vix Big Match is an opportunity to celebrate the life of someone who inspired everyone who met her and to continue her goal to help fund groundbreaking research through the Brain Tumour Charity.

LATE The day will be a mix of family fun and top quality rugby N

and everyone is welcome.”

O O 12 N More information about Vix Big Match can be found at

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www.vixbigmatch.wordpress.com and donations can be made at

www.mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/vixbigmatch

Charity Urgently Appeals For Volunteers To Help Combat Loneliness Among Older People In Loughborough Contact the Elderly, the only charity solely dedicated to tackling loneliness and isolation among older people, is urgently appealing for volunteers living in Loughborough to spare just a few hours each month to help with the running of local tea parties for older people – and enjoy a cuppa and a cake themselves!

The charity aims to relieve the acute loneliness of isolated people, aged 75 and above, who live alone, by organising free monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties for small groups of older people within local communities – providing a regular and vital friendship link every month.

Each older guest is collected from their home by a volunteer driver, and is taken to a volunteer host’s home, where they join a small group for tea, chat and companionship. The charity is hoping to set up a new group in Loughborough, however, it is currently struggling to recruit: volunteer drivers who are able to pick up the older guests from their homes and accompany them to the gathering each month, volunteer hosts to welcome the group into their homes for tea once or twice a year and a volunteer coordinator to help organise the monthly tea parties.

Contact the Elderly’s Midlands Development Officer, Pamela Walker, said: “The charity is committed to offering a lifeline of friendship to the oldest and loneliest people, but our hopes of extending this lifeline to older people in Loughborough are currently fading due to a real shortage of volunteers in the area.

“Anyone who can spare a couple of hours one Sunday a month, has a driving licence, a car and a capacity for drinking tea, is eligible! And for those interested in becoming a host, it would just involve a couple of hours once or twice a year. It’s not a big commitment, and our volunteers genuinely get as much out of the experience as our older guests, so I’m calling for anyone who is interested in giving something back to their community to please get in touch with me as soon as possible.”

Loughborough residents interested in volunteering for Contact the Elderly once a month as a driver, or twice a year as a host, can contact Pamela Walker, Midlands Development Officer on

0121 603 1331 or email: pamela.walker@contact-the-elderly.org.uk 10

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Charity News

Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation Support. Care. Friendship

FORTHCOMING EVENTS: Fun Filled Evening Tuesday 29th April Bingo, Quiz and Promise Auction. £2.50 per person. Booking Essential.

Traditional Afternoon Tea Saturday 10th May, 3 - 5pm £8.50 per person Why not join us for our second Afternoon Tea to be served on a Saturday! Enjoy views over the Leicestershire countryside before sitting down to a traditional afternoon tea served on vintage English bone china. Raffle and Music!

Copt Oak Memorial Hall, Copt Oak, Whitwick Road, Leicestershire, LE67 9QB Please call 01530 244914 or email: admin@shuttlewood-clarke.org. Booking is essential.

FROM VIETNAM TO CAMBODIA FOR LOROS Beth Partner is undertaking one heck of a challenge – a 400km challenge to be exact.

Over 10 days her (and her aunt, Lorraine, along with a wider challenge group) will be attempting to cycle from Vietnam to Cambodia. The aim is a simple one for Beth and Lorraine: to raise money for Leicestershire hospice, LOROS. Starting in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) on November 15th the ladies will finish their epic ride on 25th November at the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia – arguably one of most fascinating wonders of the world – built between 879 and 1191AD by the Khmer civilisation, Ankgor Wat represents one of mankind’s most astonishing architectural achievements and is certainly the jewel in Cambodia’s crown.

Along the way the 400km route will take the fund-raising group through many traditional Vietnamese villages, following gorgeous streams and rivers, passing paddy fields and adjacent to stunning mountains – a somewhat fantastic trade-off for the hard-work that is no doubt pending.

“After losing my uncle (Lorraine’s husband) to cancer as well as other family members we wanted to raise money for LOROS” commented Beth. Helping local people (across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland LOROS is a local charity that helps for over 2,500 people every year, providing free, high-quality, compassionate care and support to terminally ill adult patients, their family and carers.

To help support Beth and Lorraine in their support of LOROS, please visit the below webpage:

www.mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/bethandlorraine

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Charity Whist Drive The next in the series of Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr will be held at 7.30 pm on Thursday 1st May 2014.

Admission £2.00. All players welcome.

The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

LOROS

Colourfun

Mile

LOROS has been counting down and has officially launched their new exciting event for 2014, the Colourfun Mile, which is set to be a big hit with all of the family.

Christian Weikert-Picker, LOROS Fundraiser, said, “The Colourfun Mile on Wednesday 18th June is open to all ages and is set to shower everyone in multicoloured powder paint, smiles and laughter. We are planning to start on Station Road in Hinckley Town Centre, and as runners race along in their white t-shirt they will enter various colour zones where they will be showered in special powder paint!

The paint, also known as Festival Powder and Race Paint is the safest, fully tested throwing powder on the market. Made from natural corn starch and colour dyes that are food and cosmetic grade tested to the highest FDA standard, it is biodegradable, environmentally friendly and easy to clean up! It is the paint chosen by the largest professional organiser of the colour runs in the UK. With music, dancing and massive colour blasts along the mile, this is set to be the brightest party Leicestershire has seen!”

For more information and to register visit:

www.loros.co.uk/fundraising www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

Charity News

PRUDENTIAL RIDE LONDON Cycling Event Alex’s Wish charity based in Rothley has been allocated 26 places for this year’s Prudential Ride London on Sunday, 10th August.

Celebrating the legacy for cycling created by the London 2012 Olympic Games, the event starts in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and then follows a 100-mile route on closed roads through the capital and into Surrey’s stunning countryside.

With leg-testing climbs and a route made famous by the world’s best cyclists at the Games, it’s a truly spectacular event for all involved.

Alex’s Wish is raising funds for life-saving research into Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - a muscle-wasting condition.

Alex (7) from Rothley was diagnosed in 2010 for which there are no cures. It’s a heart-breaking condition leaving those with it wheelchair bound by mid-teens leading to heart or respiratory failure by mid-twenties. £50 deposit will secure your place, plus £500 in sponsorship - every cyclist will receive an event jersey and training and sponsorship advice – a fantastic way to kick-start your fitness in 2014.

LONDON TO PARIS CYCLE RIDE Alex’s Wish is recruiting cyclists to take part in their adventure cycling event leaving London on Friday, 25th July.

Connecting two of the world’s most chic capital cities you will embark on a challenge of a lifetime. The 277-mile ride incorporates beautiful Kent countryside before crossing the channel to experience the quiet French country lanes that wind through traditional sleepy market towns. Upon reaching Paris on Sunday, 27th July, you will then be part of the tremendous atmosphere and culture as the final stage of the Tour de France arrives on the Champs Elysees! £89 deposit will secure your place, plus £1,400 in sponsorship – covers accommodation, expenses and travel.

For details about these fantastic events, Emma Hallam on 07903 349475 or emma@alexswish.co.uk or visit www.alexswish.co.uk 100% of all money raised will go towards funding essential world-class research and clinical trials into this condition.

Ivanhoe Way Challenge In Aid Of Wishes 4 Kids Wishes 4 Kids supporters Richard and Angela Bebbington are pleased to announce applications for the 6th annual Ivanhoe Way Challenge are now open. The challenge, to walk the 37 mile Ivanhoe Way route within 15 hours, takes place on Saturday 21st June 2014. Since the event was launched over 230 people have completed the challenge, raising over £30,000 for Leicestershire Charity, Wishes 4 Kids.

2014 will also see the Ivanhoe Way ‘Half’ Challenge taking place on the same day. The 18 mile route will follow the same route from Stanton Under Bardon.

With the ‘Full’ Challenge starting at The Royal Hotel in Ashby De La Zouch, the route passes Staunton Harold Reservoir, through the rocky outcrops of Charnwood Forest, out to Bagworth, and back along the route of the Ashby Canal, via Shackerstone. Once back in Ashby there will be a well earned meal and drink waiting for the walkers at The Royal Hotel.

There is an administration fee of £18.00 per application and each participant is encouraged to raise sponsorship for Wishes 4 Kids. There has been lots of interest already for this year’s challenge and with places limited to 100 early applications are advised. More information can be obtained by contacting Richard or Angela at enquiries@ ivanhoechallenge.co.uk or by calling 07751 259489. Alternatively application forms are available via the website at www.ivanhoechallenge.co.uk. Organised by Richard and Angela on behalf of Wishes 4 Kids.

Leicester Branch of Cancer Research UK - Friday 13th June 2014 Leicester Branch of Cancer Research UK are holding a Pudding Evening at The Kirby Muxloe Sports and Social Club, Ratby Lane, Kirby Muxloe at 7.30pm. Come along and try as many different puddings as you would like whilst enjoying our easy listening band ‘The Mowselberries’.

There will be a selection of biscuits and cheese. Coffee will be served or just enjoy a drink from the bar.

Tickets are £7.50 and can be obtained by ringing 0116 2871758.

ALL PROCEEDS TO CANCER RESEARCH UK - LEICESTER HOSPITALS.

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New Messy Church Starting in Mountsorrel

Do you enjoy craft activities, good food and making new friends? Would you like to go to church but find it hard with ‘wriggly’ children? If so, then Messy Church may be for you.

NT Leicester Association As we move into spring and summer many of us will be working in our gardens and also visiting gardens under various “Open Garden” schemes. So do not forget that most National Trust houses also have wonderful gardens.

One of the newest beautiful gardens is the fully restored garden at Canons Ashby near Towcester. The garden was originally laid out in 1708 in the Baroque style favoured by Queen Anne. It employed straight lines, formal terraces, gravel paths, complex bedding schemes, topiary and statuary and was never redesigned in the later more naturalistic style. In Victorian times it was recognised as an important survival of the earlier period.

In the 20th century the garden fell into decay and when the NT acquired the property in 1981 it was nothing more than a meadow. For the first 25 years of ownership the Trust undertook minimal restoration and maintained the garden in a simple and tidy condition. However in 2007, after painstaking research into Sir Henry Dryden’s detailed records about the garden, assembled in the 1860’s, the Trust decided to restore them to their original design.

We start with craft activities, games and puzzles for all the family. Adults can join in too! Next is a short and lively worship time of songs and a Bible story. A free lunch is provided for everyone to enjoy spending more time relaxing with family and friends.

Messy Church is church for everyone- children of all ages, parents, grandparents, neighbours and friends are all welcome. Children will need to bring a responsible adult with them. There is no charge but donations towards the cost of running Messy Church are always very welcome.

Messy Church, organised by Loughborough Seventh-day Adventist church, will be meeting on Saturday 3rd May, Saturday 7th June and thereafter on the second Saturday of each month. We meet at Mountsorrel Methodist Church, Church Hill Road, Mountsorrel, LE12 7JB. Please call 07748 590594 or email: loughboroughsdachurch@gmail.com to let us know you are planning to come. We’d love to see you!

The 4 acre garden, completed last year, now has fruit and vegetable terraces, rose parterre, herbaceous and annual planting and magnificent topiary and is a wonderful example of the height of garden fashion from 300 years ago.

The house, garden and all other facilities at Canons Ashby are now open every day of the week from 10.30am to 5.00pm until 2nd November.

Also open every day until 2nd November are the beautiful walled flower garden and vegetable garden, including the last remaining Auricula theatre in the country, at Calke Abbey and the spectacular 7 acre, fully restored, gardens at Gunby Hall near Skegness.

The NT Leicester Association has now moved on to its summer programme which includes a coach holiday, coach outings to NT properties and half day visits to local places of interest. Afternoon and evening meetings with a speaker will begin again in September.

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

Alan Tyler, Publicity Officer

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Whitwick & District U3A The Whitwick and District U3A AGM will take place at 2pm on Friday 16th May. Afterwards, member Pete Johnson will give a presentation on Morris Dancing.

Pete has been Morris Dancing for over forty years and, wearing full Morris dress, will enlighten and entertain us on this fascinating English traditional pursuit.

As usual, there will also be comprehensive details of our interest groups and forthcoming attractions available.

Pease arrive at 1.45pm at St. David’s Church Hall, Broomleys, Coalville. Further information is available at :

www.whitwicku3a.org.uk www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

Local Interest Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust - Charnwood Group Wednesday 14th May - What happened at the Woodhouse Parish BioBlitz in 2013?

The BioBlitz team will bring us up to date with an illustrated talk about the BioBlitz discoveries, the number of species recorded, how those records will be used in the future and some individual memories of an inspirational event last June.

Saturday 17th May – Table Top Sale In Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall from 2pm – 4:30pm.

There will be a variety of stalls, some raising funds for LRWT. Book a stall to raise money for your group, or have a de-clutter at home! To book a table (£7 each) ring Pam on 01509 412589 (stall holders admitted from 1pm) Refreshments (drinks and cakes) available throughout the sale. Admission 50p, accompanied children free.

The History of The Orchestra “In this marvellously informative, absorbing and well crafted book, Neil Crutchley celebrates the history of Leicester Symphony Orchestra - its ups and downs, its triumphs and stumbles. The story is related with warmth and enthusiasm, and he shows the huge role the LSO has played in the cultural life of the city.”

- John Florance

The book is on sale at £15 and can be purchased via the orchestra’s website at

www.leicestersymphonyorchestra.co.uk or from Sam Dobson on 0116 2677372.

Indoor meetings are held at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall starting at 7.30pm. Admission is £2 for LRWT members, £2.50 for visitors, children free, including refreshments.

For further information contact Pam Darby (Chair) 01509 412589, Maggie Morland (Programme Secretary) 01509 890077 or John Spencer (Secretary) 01162 364279.

Mothers Union - Thurcaston With Cropston Our March Meeting as usual, took the form of a Lent Meditation and we were very pleased to welcome our Rector, the Rev. David McDonough who led us in ways to pray with a discussion about The Lord’s Prayer. This was a lovely quiet time, ending with tea and hot-cross buns.

Earlier in March, eight of our Members joined with many Members from the Diocese, for the Mothers’ Union Quiet Day held at St. Joseph’s Convent at Rearsby. Many of us are familiar with this lovely convent with its restful rooms and beautiful gardens. On this occasion our Rector the Rev. David McDonough, had been asked to lead the day which he did splendidly.

Our next Meeting is on Thursday 19th June at 7.30pm in the Harrison Room, we shall welcome Janet Scarrett whose subject is “What about the Victorians”.

Do come along and join us, you will be most welcome.

Thank you to those who supported our Mothers’ Day group collection. We have sent £118 this year.

Bradgate Flower Club Have you wondered what lies behind the creative genius of the flower arranger? Journey “Back to the Future” with Bradgate Flower Club and be enthralled by the skill and repartee of an experienced demonstrator.

Lee Berrill is the guest for our special Open Meeting at 7.30pm on Wednesday 7th May. The venue for this meeting is Groby Community College (off Ratby Road LE6 0GE). Visitors and guests are welcome - entry fee of £8, payable at the door. Details from Lilian Coleman on 0116 2363191.

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Local Interest

UK Gas Services Celebrates 20 Years of Local Service!

Adam Newton, Managing Director said “we are really fortunate to have such a great team & existing customers.

As a privately owned local business we have solid foundations and a great reputation to shape our next twenty years & beyond.

LOCAL CENTRAL HEATING EXPERTS - WHAT WE DO: • Boiler swaps to full central heating systems • System health checks, upgrades & servicing • Fault finding & Power Flushing Our 20 year history & buying power makes us unbeatable on VALUE: • If you think you can do better, please tell us • We’ll match any equivalent offer & include our renowned service & quality that others simply can’t • If you connect us with somebody who goes ahead with a new boiler, we’ll pay you £50 or complete your next service for free

We pride ourselves on treating our customer’s homes as we would our own: • We are careful & prepare well by protecting your belongings • We clean up after ourselves & remove waste materials Our installers are long-term team members with over 10 years’ service: • We only employ qualified & experienced engineers we know & trust • Our team are Gas Safe qualified & CRB checked • Proud to be a small local businesses still investing in apprenticeships

WHO WE WORK FOR: • Private & Landlord customers • Direct & via Green Deal or ECO funding • Long-term relationships with Local Authorities

“SEE OUR UNBEATABLE BOILER OFFER ADJACENT”

Loughborough Goes Potty For Pottery A CERAMIC celebration will take place in Loughborough as the town welcomes the fifth annual Ceramic Market.

From 11.30am on Sunday, May 18, 2014, for one day only Loughborough will welcome 44 stalls selling all things ceramic, from pots to plates and sculptures.

Councillor Stephen Hampson, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture, said: “Once again we are pleased to welcome people from across the international ceramics community.

“This year there are new stall holders, as well as some seasoned pros, and I know there will be an exciting range of hand-crafted designs.”

Ceramics in Charnwood will also boast a charity stall for Cancer Research and Ataxia UK, selling plant pots.

For more information on the market visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/seasonal_markets_and_events, contact the Markets and Fairs team, markets.fairs@charnwood.gov.uk, call 01509 634624 or ‘like’ Ceramics in Charnwood on Facebook.

MP Encourages Local Manufacturers To Enter National Awards Nicky Morgan, MP for Loughborough, has encouraged local businesses to enter the Manufacturer of the Year Awards 2014, which celebrate excellence in the manufacturing industry.

The 2014 Awards were launched in Parliament by Business Minister Michael Fallon. Over 200 senior business leaders attended the launch including representatives from Rolls Royce, GE Aviation, Mulberry, BAE Systems, and many more.

The awards provide an opportunity for both celebration and recognition of innovation in the industry, and are open to all businesses regardless of size.

This means that the smallest businesses have an equal chance of winning one of the prestigious prizes as some of the biggest manufacturing brands in the country. And entries for the coveted awards are now open. For details on how to enter please go to http://www.themanufacturer.com/eventsites/awards2014/How-to-Enter/ Nicky said: “There is no shortage of excellent manufacturing businesses in the Loughborough constituency, and I have visited many in my role as Loughborough’s MP. The Manufacturer of the Year Awards is a great opportunity for outstanding manufacturers locally to receive recognition for innovation and enterprise.

“I would strongly encourage local businesses to put themselves forward for the 2014 Awards and showcase the talent we have here in Loughborough.”

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Local News

The Great British Seaside Coalville Summer Staycation 2014

The Coalville Town Team are delighted to announce, that after the amazing success of Coalville Motorfest in June 2013 plus the phenomenal Coalville Food and Festival in November 2013…we are back bigger and better for 2014!

On Saturday 28th June 2014, 10am - 4pm, we are transforming the ‘Belvoir Shopping Centre’ into your very own Coalville Summer Staycation, featuring its very own Great British Seaside Beach, Beach Café with Fish ‘n’ Chips, Vintage Sweet Cart, Ice Cream Trike, Strawberries and Cream, Cream Teas and a delightful Pimms Bar. There will also be mouthwatering International, European and Local Hot Cuisine plus a selection of Cold Food and Drinks to take home including Bottled Beers and Wines, Farm produce, Gourmet Cheese, Fudge, Pies and much more. Not forgetting Tea cups rides and seaside games to keep the footfall flowing. Live music and entertainment will also be showcased throughout the day to attract the crowds.

As an added bonus, an Exclusive Collection of car / vehicle dealerships will be located in the Needhams Walk Car Park, adjacent to the precinct, with some very special guests and exotica to get your engines revving.

Leicester Tigers and their Mobile Events Truck ‘Maul’ are confirmed as attending plus the awesome Formula E Racing Team, Ford Events Scalextric and Interactive Sports Simulator. There will be many more updates to come as this is set to be a great event for the 10,000+ anticipated members of the public and it’s participants.

From 10am the main event kicks off with FREE parking available at Snibston Discovery Museum, a FREE steam train to transport you into the town centre and back again. Wherever you are in Coalville Town Centre you will have something to do! The whole event ends at 4pm.

All Stallholders, exhibitors and entertainment will be promoted and advertised for free via our press and media outlets in the run up to the day plus they will feature in our full colour event information map that will be handed out to the public on the day.

If you are interested in booking a stall for the Belvoir Shopping Centre, Sponsoring the festival or perhaps entertaining the crowds with your talents.. then please get in touch ASAP as spaces are limited.

Email: coalvilletowncentre@gmail.com | Facebook: coalvilletowncentre | Twitter: @talkupcoalville We look forward to seeing you at this great local family day out. Coalville Town Team (CTT)

Leicester Riverside Festival Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th June 2014 | FREE FESTIVAL

The Leicester Riverside Festival is the city’s largest free festival featuring activities on and off the water. The festival covers Bede Park, Castle Gardens, Western Boulevard and the Mile Straight, with the latter packed with decorated boats and will include demonstrations and free boat trips.

The Festival will again include the popular arts and craft street market plus a variety of delicious food stalls showcasing different foods from around the world. There will be plenty of fantastic live music, with the festival continuing to build on its reputation showcasing some of the best bands and artists on the main stage.

Once again there will be an environmental focus to the festival with the involvement of various groups, bringing together workshops and displays, helping to raise awareness of environmental issues.

There’s plenty to entertain the whole family including children’s activities and a children’s funfair in Bede Park. Castle Gardens hosts inspiring eco activities with the opportunity to have-a-go and learn new skills as well as providing a relaxing space to enjoy a picnic.

For general information telephone 0116 454 3600 or email festivals@leicester.gov.uk

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GARDENING Enjoy A Day In Our Gardens With The National Garden Scheme Monday 26th May 2014, 11am - 5pm | Newtown Linford As part of the National Garden Scheme you are invited to look around and enjoy six village gardens that you probably have only seen from the road, or path. Four of the properties have the River Lin as a friend, either running through, or along the boundary.

On the Spring Bank Holiday Monday, 26th May, from 11.00am until 5.00pm, Woodlands (86 Main Street), Lin Croft (88), Bank Cottage (90), Dell Cottage (92), Dingle House (94A) and Apple-tree Cottage(114) will be welcoming you all to enjoy stunning displays of Rhododendrons and Azaleas, Wisterias, a prolific Exochorda known as The Bride, and depending upon the weather this Spring there could be some displays of tulips. You will be invited into a colourful courtyard garden, see a small lily pond, and gardens on many levels.

Home made teas will be available at Bank Cottage and Apple-tree Cottage where you will be able to sit and relax. All the gardens have a southerly aspect so if the weather is fine you can enjoy the sunshine, the view, and the wonderful home made cakes.

In addition we will have a Plant Stall including home grown seedlings.

The National Garden Scheme has been raising money for nursing and caring charities since 1927. Over 3700 gardens are just waiting to be discovered nationally and we are just 6 of those. Entrance £4 adults, children free.

Unfortunately the gardens are not suitable for wheelchairs, and we ask you not to bring your dog.

Dick Howard

Thurcaston & Cropston Open Gardens 2014

Once again there will be an Open Gardens event in the villages of Thurcaston and Cropston this summer. This will take place on the weekend of 28th and 29th June.

All money raised from the Open Gardens event will go to charity. This year we are raising money for LOROS. We hope to have a number of different gardens for you to visit across the two villages; some large, some small, some immaculate, some very much less so! But all for you to enjoy.

We are still looking for gardens to open. The wet weather at the start of this year meant that many gardens were slow to get going, but now that Spring is really here they are bursting into life.

If you would like to get involved by opening your garden please contact us as soon as possible (see below for details)… you will be most welcome. Gardeners who have opened before will tell you it is a very enjoyable and positive experience.

Gardens will be open from 2pm - 6pm on both days; tickets will be £4 each (accompanied children and wheelchair users free) and will be valid for both days. They can be purchased on the day from any of the Open Gardens and in advance.

Look out for further details nearer the Open Garden weekend.

For more information about this event, or to volunteer your garden, please have a look at our web site www.tcog.org. uk or contact Linda on 0116 2363872 or email Linda@tcog.org.uk Why not put the date in your diary now, then come along with your family and friends, and support this great community event, and help us raise money for a very worthwhile cause. We look forward to seeing you!

Loughborough Flower Lovers’ Club Meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month from 7.30 - 9.30 pm at Our Lady’s Convent School, Gray Street, Loughborough (LE11 2DZ). There is easy parking within the school grounds and tea/coffee and biscuits are available.

New members and visitors are always welcome to our friendly club.

For more information please ring 01509 853740.

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GARDENING Woodhouses’ Garden Club The Woodhouses Garden Club meets monthly to share our enthusiasm for gardening and to listen to a wide range of interesting speakers. We are a friendly bunch and offer a warm welcome to both beginners and the more experienced gardener. Our talks vary widely with subjects like garden design, wildflowers, pond planting, herbs, trees, fruit, roses and alpines. We have even played host to Radio Leicester’s legendary Down To Earth garden panel programme. This was a light hearted opportunity to ask for advice from the experts and to be immortalised by our local radio station.

Last year saw the inauguration of our junior section. Young gardeners, aged between 7 and 14, met every two weeks to learn how to grow plants and vegetables. This was a really practical club for our enthusiastic young citizens and each had their own small allotment to grow flowers and produce. The real joy was the sharing of knowledge and wonder between generations and watching the seeds of enthusiasm grow.

The highlight of our year is always the annual coach trip and in 2013 we had the pleasure of touring the Royal National Rose Society Garden in St Albans in the company of former President, Ann Bird.

Like all clubs and societies, we are reliant on the efforts of volunteers to make things happen. For many years, we have had amazing support from Deirdre Cobb (Refreshments Secretary) and Mary Sample-Brewin (Treasurer). Both have decided to take a well-deserved break and Katheryn Fraser (our brilliant Secretary for the last three years) would like to take up the role of Treasurer. This leaves us with vacancies on the committee and we hope that you might consider helping our club to grow and to inspire gardeners of all ages in our villages. No special knowledge is needed, just the desire to get out of the house and to spend time with friendly, like-minded people. We particularly need help with organising our programme for the second half of 2014.

If you would like further information, please call Andrew on 01509 890 839 or come along to our next meeting (below).

Andrew Garland, Chairman.

- Lilies & Companion Plants by Richard Woods

For our March Woodhouses Garden Club meeting, Richard Woods and his wife joined us to enthral us with their love of lilies.

They brought along a very healthy range of plants from their nursery (Lilies and Chillies) and we were delighted to be shown some gorgeous photos of a huge range of specimens.

They started their nursery (which grew out of a serious hobby) relatively recently in 2008. Richard also works part-time as a teacher.

They spend a lot of time away at plant fairs and shows where they sell their plants. They generally have around 50-60 varieties on offer.

He took us through the similarities and differences between the various types of lilies such as Asiatic and Oriental Trumpets. Some prefer acid soil, some alkaline and some aren’t fussed either way. Some have no scent at all while others could be described as highly fragranced, perhaps even pungent.

He explained that lilies tend to be bred for the cut flower industry which results in good strong stems. Many varieties can look very similar and it can be extremely difficult to tell them apart – even to the trained eye. This can be baffling until you understand that although two given varieties look very similar, the flowering season will be slightly different which gives the impression of an extended season.

Richard spent some time talking about pests and how to keep the plants healthy.

Unsurprisingly starting with a healthy bulb that isn’t covered in mould is key. Sadly, his photos of bad examples were from bitter experience when he received a delivery of several hundred bulbs all covered in mould and already becoming soft to the touch. You also may not be surprised to hear that lily beetle is an enemy of the species and as a man who loves his lilies, he delights in what he described as a ‘satisfying crunch under foot’ when one is found!

The two images of lilies which really caught my attention were Hiawatha with what were described as ‘reflexing petals’ and Eyeliner (left) which is a white lily with the finest line of burgundy around the edge of each petal.

The enthusiasm that Richard has for his favourite plant really shone through, as did his love of gardening in general, and we hope to be able to visit his nursery or perhaps even see him at a show sometime.

Amanda Garland NEXT MEETING: Thursday 15th May - From the Tropics to the Trent by Martin Cooke. Join Martin (designer and author) and learn about exotic gardening in a cool climate. Beginners are warmly welcomed. There will also be a bring and buy plant sale at the meeting. We welcome everyone to this friendly club- you don’t have to have green fingers! Visitors £3 (adult) and £1 (children) and individual membership £12 (giving free entry to talks) Meetings are in Woodhouse Eaves village hall at 7:30pm.

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GARDENING Thurcaston & Cropston Garden Club Our March speaker was Caroline Tate, the nursery manager of Coton Manor Gardens. Her photos and commentary of life at Coton Manor, took us on a journey through the seasons, and the decades of this lovely garden that is a popular visiting place for Leicestershire garden lovers.

The gardens are open for six months in the year from the spring time displays of hellebores (right) and blue bells, through the rich varieties of summer flowering borders, and into autumn displays.

Caroline made the point that the garden at Coton had evolved over many years. Because gardening at Coton is on a large scale, they work hard at colour combinations and succession. They also use repeat planting in long borders as a technique.

This illustrated talk by Caroline was very well received. Caroline had an enthusiasm and passion for Coton and a manner and style that members warmed to.

Whether an experienced gardener or an enthusiastic beginner we are sure you will something of interest in this year’s programme. New members are made most welcome. The membership fee is £12 for the year (pro-rota) or £3.00 per meeting.

And, if you would like to come as a visitor and then you decide to join, your visitor fee will be refunded!! So, if you are interested in gardening - come and give the Club a try. The gardening club meets in the Thurcaston and Cropston Memorial Hall.

The next club events are:

Wednesday 11th June - Evening visit to “Barracca”, Earl Shilton - A 1-acre garden with lots of different areas, large borders, patio area and a utility garden. Admission. £3.00 including refreshments.

Wednesday 9th July - Garden Trail & BBQ Saturday 26th July - Tatton Park Flower Show - £30.00 each - includes coach & entry to the Showground. A few tickets still available.

For more information, please call Dave Haddon on (0116) 235 9758.

Newtown Linford Gardening Club Unless something dramatic happens, it looks as though we will have been totally free of snow for the entire winter. I must admit I cannot remember that happening before. All the spring flowers are out and the display of colour this year is quite stunning. It reminds us that this is one of the reasons we become gardeners in the first place.

Our speaker in March was David Thornton, secretary of the National Vegetable Society who told us all about the new findings on the adage of ‘ five-a-day’ for healthy living. The thought of this increasing to seven or even nine was a revelation and we were even more surprised to see the things we had learnt on the Tuesday splashed all over the news two days later!

Our activities in April were all centred around our plant fair on Saturday April 26th in the Sunday School rooms alongside the entrance to Bradgate Park in Newtown Linford. We sold not only a range of plants, but also home-made cakes and other delicacies. Our AGM was then held on April 22nd and we also had a visit from Mike Darch whose expertise is geraniums.

Tickets are now available for our celebrity event in the autumn. On November 4th Adam Frost will be coming to Newtown Linford. He has already won gold medals at Chelsea for garden design on four occasions (perhaps five by the time he comes to speak to us!!!) and is now one of the newly established experts in this subject. He appears on our screens at regular intervals and has a reputation as a fascinating speaker with an innovative gardening brain. As last time, when Christine Walkden came to our village, we will invite members of other gardening clubs and interested visitors to join us. Tickets will cost £10 and are available from the secretary (see below for contact numbers). We will also be offering special group rates and details of these can be obtained from the secretary.

We have welcomed a large number of new members this year and will be pleased if others want to join us. If you are interested in our activities just contact the secretary (tel. 01530 242452 or email 01530242452@talktalk.net) , or come to one of our meetings to see how you like it before making a commitment (£2 for visitors). Alternatively give us a ring and ask for a copy of our programme for the coming year and we will be pleased to send one to you.

Anne & David Couling May / June 2014

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GCR News

May On The GCR

There is plenty of action during the month with a second Gala based around Swithland, a Real Ale Train & a Vintage Vehicle Fest, two Bank Holiday weekends & some mid week running. There is also a good selection on the dining front.

Photo - Visiting Diesel Deltic Class No 9016 Gordon Highlander arrives at Rothley on the second day of the GCR’s March Diesel Gala with a train for Leicester North.

These Diesels took over from the Gresley A4 steam locomotives in the early 1960’s on the East Coast Main Line.

Bank Holiday Weekends - On May Day the 5th there is a steam special event. On May 26th the Spring Bank Holiday weekend there is a service of steam again.

Swithland Gala - This is the second year for this event when Swithland Sidings is open to the public on the 10th and 11th with plenty of action on the four track siding and two visiting engines hopefully added to the line up.

Classic & Vintage Vehicle Fest - A weekend with a great selection of classic cars and vintage vehicles. With a real ale tent and retro music at Quorn during the weekend of the 17th and 18th. If you would like to bring a vehicle to this event call Loughborough 01509 632315.

Real Ale Train - To take advantage of this train you must book on line because of limited space, the fare includes two return trips along the line on the 17th.

Midweek Running - Trains will be running during the Spring Bank Holiday week Tuesday - Thursday 27th - 29th.

Dining Trains - The normal dining trains will be running with a Murder Mystery on the 16th and a Pullman Fine Dining with Live Jazz on the 30th.

Bridging The Gap - The bridge to the future appeal tops £405,000 since the launch in June 2013, almost half way

to the target. Work has started on the refurbishment of the two bridge decks which came from Reading which will span the Midland Main Line. Network Rail are partners with the Great Central on the project to deliver one of the most eagerly anticipated infrastructure projects on any heritage railway. A signal sighting survey along the Midland route has recently been completed. Design work for the new abutments, based on the results from the drilling of trail bore holes is at an advanced stage. The next major development, expected very shortly, is an application for planning permission. Donations can be made with a cheque made payable to ‘The David Clark Railway Trust’ and sent to the GCR HQ at ‘Bridge Appeal’, Lovatt House, 3 Wharncliffe Road, Loughborough, Leicester, LE11 1SL. Using an appeal form (downloadable from www.gcrailway.co.uk/unfiy) standing orders can easily set up.

Alternatively donations can be made online at www.gcrailway.co.uk - click on the ‘donate now’ button or the Bridge to the Future appeal link.

Preview Of Events For June - The second Swap Meet of the year takes place at Quorn on the first Sunday of the

month. Then the very popular three day 1940’s Wartime Weekend on the 13th to 15th. On the weekend of the 20th -22nd a new event over three days The GCR Model Railway & Engineering Exhibition with something to see at all the stations. There is a full compliment of dining trains with some exceptions on special weekends, including a themed event on Saturday night of the Wartime Weekend, Father’s Day Luncheon on the 8th , two Murder Mystery trains on the 6th and 27th and the first of the Wine and Dine Wednesday trains on the 18th, the Maharaja Express runs on Wednesday the 25th.

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.

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Local Interest

CHARNWOOD MUSIC FOR ALL

If you are a lover of Organ Music, then this is definitely the place to be!

Every month, at 7.30pm, on the second Wednesday, there’s a treat in store at The Charnwood Arms, at Bardon, just off the A511. You may be surprised to learn that some of the UK’s top organists perform there.

During 2014, these will include Nicholas Martin, Robert Wolfe, Chris Powell and Brett Wales – all well-known radio and theatre performers, and, of course, all organists who have spent seasons at Blackpool Tower playing its famous Wurlitzer Organ.

In March the visiting organist was Mark Thompson from Newcastle-on-Tyne. At just 27, Mark is one of the UK’s leading piano, keyboard and organ players. His interest in music started when he was 6 years old and suddenly seemed able to read music, without having been taught. As a child he played the cornet in a brass band and, in his teens, played the piano or organ in band concerts. After gaining a Maths Degree at Newcastle University, Mark decided to become a professional musician. Last year, having been involved in 60 pantomime performances early in the year, he later accompanied the singing at Newcastle United’s ground at St James’ Park, prior to a key match! He delighted the Bardon audience with polished, and sometimes very unusual, renditions of a wide variety of musical genres. Although he is an accomplished classical and church organist, he also played jazz and dance music, improvising honky-tonk piano, guitar and brass instruments on his organ. He concluded with a tribute to Reginald Dixon and his Blackpool Tower organ.

April’s visiting organist was Andrew Nix. Andrew has a large following amongst organ music lovers and the presence of a large audience reflected his popularity. Resplendent in a green velvet jacket, he worked magic on his ‘Roland Atelier’ instrument., producing music from ‘The Shows’, fantastic theatre-organ sounds from years gone by, romantic music for ’lovers’ and some memorable brass band and classical music. Andrew, who started playing the organ when he was ten, has entertained in England and abroad for over 35 years. His ready Yorkshire wit and his stories are sure to keep his audiences well-entertained.

We are so lucky to be able to hear organists of his standard regularly in Leicestershire.

Those readers who play their own organ, or simply like to listen to organ music, brilliantly played in a wide-variety of styles, in a relaxing environment, will be entertained and impressed by the talented musicians who perform at these concerts. The next one is on Wednesday 14th May 2014 at 7.30pm when Nicholas Martin will be the visiting Organist.

The cost is £6 and a bar is available (as are reasonably priced meals, prior to the concert, at the adjacent Charnwood Arms Hotel).

For further information please contact Chris Powell on 01530 274270. (For future information, June’s concert will be on Wednesday June 11th 2014 when the visiting Organist will be David Harrild).

Your local ‘Door-to-Door’ coach holiday company!

Laver Holidays was founded in 1991 by current directors Tony and Jean Laver. At the time there were two offices, Derby and Nottingham, and a total of five staff. Their son Martin, and daughter Kim joined in the early days and daughter-in-law, Anita followed. Granddaughter, Donna, is now also fully entrenched as company accountant!

The company now employs 17-people, full or part-time, and operate from three offices around the East Midlands. The company have proved to be innovators for the coach holiday industry in as much as they were amongst the very first in the country to provide a ‘Door-toDoor’ service, with every passenger being collected from their home (on tours of 2-days or more) - and the very first to introduce ‘Mystery Tours’ of more than 1-day.

Since then other innovations have followed, such as a small bag of sweets for each passenger on departure, printed itineraries to enjoy and keep and, in 2005, the introduction of ‘Mature Singles’ holidays, especially designed to compensate for the fact that most tour companies fail to provide enough single rooms to meet demand - another ‘first’ for Laver Holidays, but one that has quickly been emulated by our competitors! In 2012, we also introduced 2-day ‘Laver Saver’ bargain breaks and in 2014, our ‘Club Class’ coach tours with added ‘luxuries’ such as newspapers onboard and a Welcome Drink at the hotel.

Air and cruise holidays (including the Channel Islands) have also been introduced in recent years, along with European Rail Journeys, giving Laver Holidays one of the most comprehensive programmes offered by any family business, certainly in the Midlands.

For your free brochure/s give us a call at Loughborough (Head Office) on 01509 236 500.

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Local Youth

The Shooting Stars of Grace Dieu Grace Dieu Manor School U11 girls have had an outstanding season this year, winning most of their inter-school fixtures in both hockey and netball. They started off by winning the Foremarke U11 Hockey tournament back in October and quickly followed this up by claiming a spot in the IAPS National Hockey Finals in November.

Their successes have not stopped on the hockey pitch and they have been equally successful on the netball court claiming the 1st place trophy at the St Anselms Tournament. Playing in a round robin tournament they secured their victory over eight other schools with no breaks between matches!

Other notable events have included claiming a place in the second round of the IAPS Regional tournament held at Uppingham School. This was an excellent result for the girls as over 30 schools took part. They also came a very respectable 3rd at the Foremarke U11 Netball Tournament, competing against 10 other schools.

Mrs S Jelley, the U11’s Netball Coach commented; “All members of the U11 team have worked really hard on their team skills and their confidence and technique have improved rapidly throughout the season. They are a credit to the school!”

Local Pre-School To Benefit From New Ownership Thurcaston Early Learning Pre-school has been established for over 16 Years and has always thrived in its current location at The Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane in Thurcaston.

The current owner, Lisa Sterland, has operated the Pre-school for the last 9 successful years and has helped to develop the Pre-School and record a much coveted ‘Good’ assessment with the governing body, Ofsted. The Pre-school has developed an excellent reputation within the local area for its high standards, quality of care to our children and its highly trained, experienced and dedicated staff.

After much consideration, Lisa has now decided to move on to new challenges and has decided to pass the ownership of Thurcaston Early Learning Pre-school on to a wonderful new owner, Sarah Teasdale. Through selecting Sarah to succeed her, Lisa has found the perfect person to be taking over the running of an already well-established and successful Pre-school.

Sarah qualified as a primary school teacher after graduating from the Nottingham Trent University with a degree in Primary Education. She now has over 14 years teaching experience in a variety of schools in Leicester and Leicestershire.

This includes teaching across the primary age range and a specific area of expertise and passion for teaching younger children, particularly in the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Thurcaston Early Learning Pre-school will continue to operate using its current staff and will now also have Sarah to lead them on a day to day basis as she will also assume the role of Pre-school Manager and will be on site each day.

Initially, the Pre-school opening times will continue to be Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; 9am until 1pm, although there will be consultation with parents on possibly extending the hours from September 2014. The four-hour sessions enable all parents to use their FREE government entitlement of 15 Free Early Education Entitlement (FEEE) hours per week and receive excellent childcare whilst not having to pay expensive childcare charges.

Sarah will continue to ensure that each day’s activities at the Preschool have been selected so that they match the interests and development stages of the children. A stimulating daily routine will be provided with lots of fun to be had. In addition to the children choosing their own activities, they will be involved in small group, adult-led activities which are pre-planned and purposeful, to build on what they can already do and providing opportunities to reach the next steps in their development and learning. This will include a Leavers Group, which is aimed at giving those children who are preparing to move up to primary school the opportunity to help develop the independent skills that they will need.

Each child will also receive one-to-one care during the day by the practitioners who will complete individual ‘Learning Journals’ which help all parents to see the progress their child makes and capture those “WOW” moments which they will be able to keep for ever. The Pre-school will continue its role within the local community and work closely with Richard Hill Primary School, which is located only 200 metres away and also continue its visits and involvement with All Saints Church in Thurcaston.

For more information, to arrange a visit or to secure your place for the new term at Thurcaston Early Learning Preschool, please contact Sarah Teasdale on: 07940 361 744 or email: thurcastonpreschool@outlook.com

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Local Youth

Grace Dieu Soccer Sensations!

The Grace Dieu Manor School Soccer tournament drew a big crowd with 8 local schools in attendance: Broom Leys, Grace Dieu, Pennine Way, Ratcliffe College, Rendall, Sacred Heart, St Clares and St Marys.

A fantastic morning of sport saw over 30 matches played over 3 hours.

Grace Dieu U9’s completed a wonderful season. After winning all of their regular matches in the Spring Term they completed their unbeaten run by winning all their five games in the Tournament and coming first in their age group. Broom Leys School won the U10 Tournament, narrowly defeating Grace Dieu 2-1 in the final.

The picture shows the Grace Dieu U9 team with their teacher Mr McCullough after winning the tournament.

INTRODUCING: Leicester Rotaract

– The social club with a conscience!

With summer well on the way why not try something different?

Rotaract is the social club with a conscience, aiming to have fun whilst raising money for charity and aiding the local community. Rotaract is a fun, dynamic and unique international organisation for people aged 18-30, offering a wide range of activities that enables you to try something new, whilst having a great time and making new friends.

Rotaract offers a wide choice of social activities, actively supports the local community and raises money for charity.

Leicester Rotaract have been involved in a range of activities including at Christmas where we had our own Santa Sleigh going around the streets collecting money for charity.

We also just meet up for socials ranging from laser quest and ten-pin bowling to the local pub quiz or joining other Rotaract clubs for the annual charity ball.

We are always recruiting people aged 18-30, so if you would like to get involved, meet like-minded people and help out in the local community then contact us on r.hallam23a@gmail.com or search ‘Leicester Rotaract’ on Facebook.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Bank Holiday Steam Train Special - Mon 5th May Steam through Leicestershire’s finest countryside. There’s plenty to see and do on the award winning heritage line.

Hop on and off at Loughborough, Quorn, Rothley or Leicester and spend a leisurely day exploring the delightful stations and soaking up the atmosphere of a bygone era.

At Loughborough Central, the principle station, visit the museum, emporium, ladies and gentleman’s waiting rooms and the souvenir shop. The station buffet located on the platform serves light bites and refreshments. You can also wander down to the locomotive shed.

First stop after Loughborough is Quorn & Woodhouse station , beautifully restored to reflect the 1940’s – why not break your journey here and visit our family cafe, Butler Henderson, open daily for refreshments and good food. The delightful village of Quorn is just a short walk.

Hop back on the train again and travel further South, you will pass over Swithland Reservoir, one of the Great Central Railway’s most scenic features. Stunning views are on offer, which ever side of the train you sit on!

Further South is Rothley, the oldest period station. Discover the station’s history and be enchanted by the miniature garden railway. Why not sample a slice of cake and a cuppa at Ellis’s tea room and watch the trains go past.

The Southernmost station is Leicester North, situated on the outskirts of Leicester city. Disembark here and watch the locomotive run around its train here. Also, alight here to visit the fantastic cafe at Greenacres, named The Platform.

For further information visit the GCR’s website: www.gcrailway.co.uk

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Local Youth

t h g i n t r o F e r a C r e t Fos Monday 12th - Sunday 25th May 2014 Leicestershire, like every other area of the UK, is facing a steady increase in the number of children who need foster families and adopters. Staff at the Fostering and Adoption Centre in Leicester are currently looking after just over 500 children. This represents an increase of 20% from 4 years ago. The increase looks set to continue.

Each week brings new children of all ages into care. Sometimes whole families of two, three or more brothers and sisters will need a new family where they can stay together. This means that new adopters and foster families are very much needed from all communities in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to offer homes to children of all ages, races and religions.

Foster families and adopters come from all walks of life. Some are single. Some are couples. Some have their own children or grandchildren and some don’t.

Paul Morley, who has worked in fostering for nearly 20 years, says: “Every child deserves a happy, secure family life. Sadly, we see so many children in our own community who are at serious risk if they stay with their own families. Our job is to find families to care for them until it is safe for them to go home or until they can move onto a new permanent family.

“Working at the Fostering and Adoption Centre is such a rewarding job, because every year we see children who have had a tough start to life begin to flourish in their foster families or with their new adopters. It is all down to the unselfish love and hard work of their carers that these children can overcome the hurt they have experienced and start to look forward to a happier future. We tell all our applicants that becoming a foster family or adopter is a huge challenge, but it is also probably the most rewarding things they will ever do. Foster families and adopters really do change lives - we see it every day.”

“I’d ask anyone who has ever thought about fostering or adoption to come along to one of the open events we are holding this spring. You will be able to chat to our advisors and meet experienced adopters and foster carers. Our events are friendly and relaxed. There is no pressure on you to sign up for anything. We will simply try to answer any questions you may have and give you advice about what to do next. We need people from all areas of Leicestershire and bordering counties and we would love to speak to anyone whether they are single, couples or families with children of their own.”

Children usually come into foster care because of concerns that their own families aren’t caring for them properly.

Parents might be ill or experiencing some other temporary problem. More often though children are removed from their families due to reports that they are at serious risk of neglect or abuse.

Short term foster families offer temporary homes where children can stay till they either return to their birth families or move onto a new permanent home with an adopter or permanent foster family. Adopters and permanent foster families become a family for life for children.

There will be evening events at St Martins House, next to the cathedral on Peacock Lane, Leicester on Tuesday 29th April, Thursday 22nd May and Thursday 19th June. Drop in anytime between 5pm and 7pm, no need to book.

The team is also running Saturday events highlighting Foster Care Fortnight.

10th May - Braunstone Civic Centre, Kingsway, Braunstone Town.

17th May - Syston Community Centre, School Street, Syston.

Drop in anytime between 10am - 2pm. For more information ring

0116 454 4500 or visit

www.leicester.gov.uk/fostering or

www.leicester.gov.uk/adoption May / June 2014

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May / June 2014

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Crossword

This month's Easy Crossword...

ACROSS 1. Nipping (6) 4. Providers of fillings, crowns, whitening etc (8) 9. Truly, genuinely (6) 10. Glistens (8) 12. Japanese rice wine (4) 13. Anne _____. Wartime diarist (5) 14. Land measurement (4) 17. Being noble (12) 20. Astonishingly (12) 23. Extra, additional (4) 24. Arranges (5) 25. Plants grow here (4) 28. Taken up (8) 29. Not moving (6) 30. Hand-held telescope (8) 31. Scallywag (6)

DOWN 1. Sprinkled on garden to attract wildlife (4,4)

March / April Crossword Solution

2. Watching the movements of a parcel, for example (8) 3. River in Egypt (4) 5. Additions, improvements (12) 6. Lengthy book (4) 7. Bad smell (6) 8. Female sibling. (6) 11. A place to buy lettuce and spinach, for example (12) 15. Lessen (5) 16. Uppermost room (5) 18. Non-religious (8) 19. Something which happens periodically (8) 21. Smudges (6) 22. Not classy (6) 26. Pertaining to the mouth (4) 27. Largest active volcano in Europe (4)

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Local Interest

Ooh La La The French Market Is Coming To Town CONTINENTAL colour, cuisine and joie de vivre will fill Loughborough’s Market Place in May. On Friday, May 2, 2014, Charnwood Borough Council will welcome the French Market and Friends to the town as they share French cuisine and goods, including cheeses, bread and pastries and homemade preserves.

Councillor Stephen Hampson, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture, said: “I am pleased that once again our continental cousins will be joining us with their mouth-watering delicacies and gifts.

“We are very proud of the town’s historic market and the fact that continental stall holders are once again sharing their produce with residents and visitors to the Borough is great.”

Stalls on the market will also stock condiments, cured meats, fruit, nuts, olives, chorizo and much more.

Philippe Basset, French Market and Friends Manager, added: “You’ll want to tantalize your taste buds and you won’t be able to resist the smells of freshly baked breads, croissants, pain au chocolat, baklava and tempting cakes and gateaux – a superb tea-time treat French-style.

“And for a handy snack while you’re shopping, why not try our freshly cooked crêpes – available sweet as well as savoury!

“Whatever takes your fancy, this market is renowned for the quality of the produce it delivers and offers a unique opportunity to choose from selected continental produce.”

The market will be based in Market Place, stalls will open for business at 9.00am and close at 5.30pm.

For more information on the event contact the Markets and Fairs team on 01509 634624 or email market.fairs@ charnwood.gov.uk.

Local Historical Fiction Author, Giles Kristian Is Back Leicester born author of the bestselling Raven saga returns to the world of the Vikings with this stirring story of Sigurd and his Fellowship - a thunderous tale of honour, courage, bloodfeud and revenge!

GOD OF VENGEANCE... Norway AD785. A land of petty kingdoms and ambitious men . . .

When King Gorm betrays Jarl Harald and puts his family to the sword, he makes a terrible mistake - he doesn’t kill Harald’s youngest son, Sigurd. Now on the run, hunted by powerful men and hiding in a sacred fen, Sigurd believes the gods have turned their backs on his family: his kin are slain or prisoners, his village attacked, its people taken as slaves.

Honour is lost. Yet all men know that Ódin - whose name means frenzy - is drawn to chaos and bloodshed, as a raven is to the slaughtered dead. And Sigurd means to spill blood.

Alone but for a small band of loyal men including his red-bearded friend Svein, his father’s right-hand man Olaf, and Asgot the godi, Sigurd hungers to avenge the murder of his family. In an attempt to catch Ódin’s eye, the young man sacrifices himself - as the god once did - and it is during this ritual ordeal that Sigurd is shown a vision. The Wolf. The Bear. The Serpent. The Eagle. Sigurd will need the help of all these and more if he is to become a man whom others will follow...and if he is to make kings pay in blood for their treachery.

But the gods have spoken and Sigurd’s quest begins. Using cunning and war-craft he must gather the fiercest warriors of the north - warriors such as Bram who men call Bear, Black Floki who is death with a blade, and the shield Maiden Valgerd, who brave men fear - and convince them to follow him. For whether or not Ódin is with him, Sigurd will have his vengeance - and neither men nor the gods can stand in his way . . . Be assured that when the blood is flowing, the gods are watching...

The book is out now and available for £14.99 - please telephone 01206 255800 and quote: BRADGATE. May / June 2014

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Site-Stone to Syston...

This months feature focuses to the East of our beautiful Charnwood Forest by looking into both historic and present day Syston...

Syston is a small town and civil parish located in the district of Charnwood lying partway between Leicester and Melton Mowbray.

With its earliest known settlement dating back over 1,000 years the Doomsday book - William the Conqueror’s great record of survey, conducted in 1086 - affirms the town was originally called “Site-Stone”, probably in relation to a stone where folk used to meet up to settle disputes.

The Church of St Peter and St Paul, Syston’s most ancient building, dates back in part to the 13th century, thanks to its sedilia (stone seats for use during mass) and is today a proud listed building and town focal point.

Syston is well-placed on the Midland Main Line and with good bus coverage bringing business through its main passageways - Melton Road and the formerly Roman road, Fosse Way – the river Soar, running past the western edge of town, completes the town’s access links. Made navigable to boats in 1784, its major tributary, the River Wreake (running north west of the town) is graded ‘excellent’ by the Environment Agency and is home to dragonfly, crayfish, perch, chubb and pike, and wonderfully, Otters, who are steadily re-populating the quieter stretches of the river.

Syston is also home to its own plum, the Syston white plum, grown in the area for over 100 years, Syston’s plum crops in September and is oval in shape. Even better news is that it is excellent for pies, jams and desserts (when ripe). As a result of its favour the plum features across the town’s welcome signs.

Bringing Syston into the modern day is the well stocked high street which not only boasts many independent shops but also has bigger chains stores thrown in for good measure.

One of the long established local businesses is George Walker Limited who are celebrating a huge anniversary this year - 200 YEARS!! (read more about them on page 44).

Syston boasts interesting beginnings, great businesses and not to forget the exciting opportunities for the local community, everything from wildlife projects and charity events to the ever developing sports teams and local clubs.

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200th Anniversary

for Local Firm!

George Walker Ltd, the independent timber merchant based in Syston, is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year.

Established in 1814 as a haulage business, the company quickly became involved in handling round timbers from the local country estates. The transportation of logs progressed into sawmilling, manufacturing and timber sales.

By the start of the 21st century, the heavy machinery was removed to make way for more stock, as the public demand for fencing and landscaping timber grew.

However, to coincide with the 200th anniversary celebrations, George Walker Ltd is opening a brand new sawmill at Belvoir Castle. The mill will cut a range of native species, and will have the ability to cut logs up to 30 foot long.

Progress can be followed on the Forest Products page of their website:

www.george-walker.co.uk

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Bowling for the future...

We focus in on one of Syston’s many sports and activity clubs this month and that is, Syston Bowling Club.

The club which has been at the heart of its local community for over 80 years now is a fully incorporated not-for-profit company club that offers bowls for men and women as well as some great social events and interactions including: craft group meetings, clubhouse darts, dominoes and carpet bowls and on occasions, full day excursions to places of local interest.

Based at their Central Park location (between Melton Road and St. Peter’s Street) much of the club’s focus at present is in bringing new members into the club, and to that effect, they are seeking a special volunteer (or volunteers) to help coordinate engagement with other local groups as means of broadening awareness and introducing the game to a new audience.

Always seeking such new members, interested parties, of all ages, are cordially invited to attend either a coffee morning (open to the public and held on the second Saturday of every month throughout the year) or to contact an existing club member for further information - men’s club secretary, Rob Wilbourn on 01664 424813; ladies club secretary, Val Foreman on 0116 2609635.

The bowling club’s season runs from April to September but new players are welcomed at any point. Attending a club session will see new participants receive coaching pointers and useful hint and tips, and other than bringing one’s own flat shoes all other equipment is provided for you.

If you’re interested in finding out more about how you can get involved visit the club’s website for further details:

www.systonbowlingclub.org

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Local News

Beauty Secrets From The Expert...

We caught up with local beauty expert, Marie Di-Rito of Seasons Beauty Day Spa to find out which skin products make the leap from her Salon’s shelves to her own bathroom cabinet...

“Beauty routine is something I’m pretty strict with, I cleanse thoroughly

every night and apply Darphin’s Arovita eye cream then I apply my Darphin Intral serum, this is like a fine fluid and sinks into the skin quickly and I only need a very tiny amount, then I use my Jasmine oil, again I only need the tiniest of amounts, this is my favourite product it reminds me of the Jasmine trees in Greece where we take our holidays, isn’t it amazing how aromas can completely transport you to different places and times in your mind... Lastly I apply Fibrogene Moisturiser. I really massage this in well, the massage part of the routine is very important as it stimulates your blood circulation and cell regeneration process. All of this takes me only five minutes and of course I do it all again in the morning as well.

All of these products I only need a tiny amount, they last me around 9 months.

That’s the good thing about buying quality it’s more intense and rich in content, so you don’t need a lot. If a client wants to replace their products in less than 6 months I tell them they’re using too much. You don’t want a product sitting on the service of your skin; it’s not doing anything there it’s just a waste.

The cost of buying high quality products against cheap brands will soon average out as with the cheaper products you need to use a lot more to feel any benefit and they are mostly filled with water and the low quality ingredients.

I’m surprised at how many women I meet who are immaculately turned out with perfect nails, beautifully dressed and made up yet buy the cheapest skin care brands. They obviously invest a lot of money in the way they look, but then skimp of their skin care. It would be far wiser to invest in your skin, after all you wear it every day. It’s never too late to start looking after your skin - it is very true that prevention is better than cure!

I have put together a fabulous offer for you this month, here is the chance to experience for yourself the

fabulous Darphin facial along with a relaxing hot stone massage and a gorgeous Manicure from our Jessica and Essie ranges to really make you feel ready for summer and better still it’s at the fabulous price of just £30.00.

You can split the treatments up for different days through the month and even give one or two away as gifts, the choice is yours.

If you wish you can upgrade any of the treatments, a Shellac manicure for example or an anti aging Bio Therapeutic facial, just call our friendly team on 01530 249229 and they will be happy to help.”

Seasons Beauty Day Spa, 121 Main Street, Markfield, Leicestershire LE67 9UW | www.seasonsbeautydayspa.co.uk

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Local Clubs

Thurcaston & Cropston Local History Society Richard Hurd was an 18th Century rector of Thurcaston, who went on to become Bishop of Worcester and founded an important library there. Chris Penney is the current Hurd Librarian and she visited the Society in March to tell us about Hurd’s life and work. Potentially a dry subject, you might think, but Chris’s talk was well illustrated and full of interest: the only aspect that was dry was her sense of humour!

Richard Hurd was born in 1720, the middle son of a Staffordshire farmer. He was bright enough to go to grammar school and subsequently became a student, then fellow, of Emmanuel College, Cambridge. A literary and academic life seems to have suited him but stories of fiddle-playing and horse-riding also show a lighter side to his character. He was befriended

by William Warburton, the future Bishop of Gloucester, who encouraged Hurd to seek advancement.

The living of Thurcaston was one of the wealthiest owned by Emmanuel and when it became vacant in 1756 Hurd was installed as rector. He declared that the rectory (now Thurcaston Grange) was “good enough for a bishop and the garden quite excellent”. He maintained correspondence from here with the great literary figures of the day, including Thomas Gray and Edward Gibbon. He has the reputation of having been rather aloof from the affairs of the parish and certainly he does not appear to have enjoyed socializing, perhaps because of shyness. However, unlike some rectors, he did spend most of his time in the village and letters show that he stayed to tend to the sick during a time of widespread illness. He rebuilt the chancel of the church in 1763, which is probably when most of the medieval glass was lost. We saw a small painting of Hurd in later life, which belongs to the church. Chris has been able to identify the artist.

Warburton arranged for Hurd to give lectures in London, where he came to the attention of the royal family and was appointed a tutor to the Prince of Wales (future George IV). Hurd was a great favourite of Queen Charlotte, who had his portrait by Gainsborough on her bedroom wall. He was made Bishop of Lichfield in 1774 and Worcester in 1781.

Meanwhile, Warburton had become wealthy through an astute marriage and had inherited a great library, including the collection of Alexander Pope. When Warburton died, Hurd bought the 3000 books for £350 and added them to his own.

He built a new room to house the library at the bishop’s residence, Hartlebury Castle, where it still remains. It is not dominated by theological works but is more of a gentleman’s library with a diverse collection of books on science, poetry, botany, gardening and topography, as well as important editions by Spenser, Johnson and Gibbon. George III, who visited Hartlebury, donated a hundred books from the royal collection.

In 1783 Hurd was invited to become Archbishop of Canterbury but he modestly declined it as “a charge much too heavy for him to sustain”. It seems likely that he was reluctant to abandon his newly completed library! On his death in 1808, he bequeathed the collection to his successors at Worcester.

Peter Smith Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 20th May at 7.30pm in the Harrison Room, All Saints’ Church, Thurcaston.

Loughborough Naturalists Club As the end of our indoor meetings draw to a close we will be looking forward to the opening of next year’s programme on Saturday, 13th September 2014 at our usual venue (Quorn Church Rooms, Church Lane, Quorn, LE12 8DP) when Derek Warren will be telling us about The Natural History of the Red Fox and of-course you are all welcome.

However, maybe you would get pleasure from joining us on one of our walks. The details are as follow and yes, we would welcome accompanied, well behaved children who want to learn more about the countryside at both meetings and on walks.

Wednesday 4th June 2014 - Cloud Wood near Breedon This is a chance to visit a woodland which is noted for its rich woodland flora. Those who are interested in recording will have a chance to take part as it is intended to record as many species as possible. The meeting place is at the lay-by (SK419214) on the road between Griffydam and Tonge at 10am.

Saturday 5th July 2014 - Mountsorrel Marsh We haven’t previously visited this large wet area which is situated to the east of the recreation ground and overlooked by the bypass at Mountsorrel. In addition to having an interesting flora the site should be good for invertebrates. The meeting place is at the Memorial Hall car park opposite The Green in the middle of Mountsorrel (SK 584147)

Saturday 2nd August - Willesley Wood – Salter & Ford Valley Our last visit here was in 2010. For those not familiar with the locality, it lies just south-west of Ashby and consists of old woodland, new woodland, subsidence polls, and meadows which should provide plenty of interest. The meeting place is at the car park off the Willesley to Donisthorpe road at 10am. (SK 328140).

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What’s On

ugh

ghboro u o L FILM : Thurcaston & Cropston Film Presentations From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council April’s film presentation was a sell-out, Dame Judi Dench gave a compelling performance with deep emotion in “Philomena”. A touching relationship formed between her and the conscientious journalist played by Steve Coogan.

The true story certainly pulled at our heart strings as we followed the search for her long sought-after son.

“Sunshine on Leith” will be shown on Friday May 9th and lasts 100 minutes.

Friday 9th May 2014 Loughborough RSPB Local Group present a talk on Cossington Meadow by Tim Matthews. One of our own local group members who will take us on a walk around this local Nature Reserve, describing all aspects of the wildlife (mainly birds and especially owls), and where and what species might be found. 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.

Sunday 11th May 2014

This romantic comedy is an upbeat happy musical with many songs by the Proclaimers. Two friends return to Scotland from a tour of duty in Afghanistan. They again enjoy their girlfriends’ company while Davy And Liz’s parents celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary.

However, there emerges a dark secret from the past.

“Twelve Years a Slave” will be shown on Friday June 13th and lasts 134 minutes.

Loughborough RSPB Local Group invite you to join them on a coach trip to Bempton Cliffs RSPB reserve in East Yorkshire. Depart from Loughborough University at 7.30 am, fare £18. Booking is essential.

Tuesday 13th May 2014 Loughborough RSPB Local Group have a Wildlife Walk Brandon Marsh near Coventry at 10am until 12 noon.

Meet at the nearby car park - SP386757.

Sunday 15th June 2014 Loughborough RSPB Local Group invite you to join them on a coach trip to Nagshead RSPB Reserve in Gloucestershire. Depart from Loughborough University at 7.30 am, fare £18. Booking is essential for this trip.

Tuesday 17th June 2014 Loughborough RSPB Local Group have a Wildlife Walk at Whisby Nature Reserve near Lincoln at 10am until 12 noon. Meet at the car park - SK908674 Full details of all of the events including finding the venue, booking the trips etc can be found on the group’s website:

June’s drama remarkably won this year’s Oscar for Best Film. It is based on an incredible true story of one man’s fight for survival and freedom in pre Civil War United States of America. When a freed black man is sold back into slavery, he faces cruelty but also unexpected kindnesses. The director, Steve McQueen, has created a masterpiece.

“Saving Mr Banks” will be shown on Friday September 12th. Have a good summer!

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

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

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The Good Old Days of Music Hall & Variety Friday 16th May 2014 For your delight & delectation and at enormous expense Quorn Phoenix Entertainers present “The Good Old Days of Music Hall & Variety. The show is designed to be a tribute to music hall and variety with much laughter and many well known sing along songs. Tickets £6 adults and £3 for children. Come along and join in the fun, feel free to dress in period costume - there will be a prize for the best dressed!

Doors open 7pm curtains up 7:30pm - Quorn Village Hall.

For tickets call Reg on 01509 41250 or Marcia 01509 550689. www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

Moira l a v i t s e F l a Can

What’s On

Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th May 2014 The 2014 festival is again at the historic Moira Furnace, on the restored length of the Ashby Canal. Over the weekend of 17th and 18th May, there will be a wide range of entertainment for all.

A first for the Ashby Canal (and probably anywhere) is a unicycle tightrope ride over the Ashby Canal, by Sam Goodburn, plus his spectacular arena display of balancing and juggling skills.

The Open Rope, Civil War reenactment society will be present to keep the whole family entertained, there will be an award-winning dog show, bands including a 10 piece swing band, Birds of Prey display, Morris dancing to liven things up, crafty fun for the children, live steam train rides, a variety of stalls and demonstrations, boats, bar and refreshments!

All this fun will revolve around the banks of the Ashby Canal at the Moira Furnace (DE12 6AT) from 10am - 5pm.

For further details see

www.ashbycanaltrust.co.uk or telephone 01530 515273.

Go along to the festival, take the family and remember all proceeds are ploughed back into the restoration of the Ashby Canal and maintenance of the restored length.

(Proceeds from the last 2 festivals have in part gone towards restoring a short length at Snarestone).

Music in the Park Saturday 7th June 2014

This highly popular charity concert is held in the beautiful grounds of Wistow Hall, by kind permission of the Brooks family, and is a great night out for all ages.

Bring your own picnic and enjoy a wonderful evening listening to music by the “upBeatles” (a Beatles tribute band), and the award winning “Hathern Brass Band”.

This is then followed by a fabulous firework display in front of Wistow Hall.

This year the concert is supporting “LOROS” (Hospice Care for Leicestershire & Rutland), and “HOPE” (Cancer Research in Leicestershire & Rutland).

Gates open 5.30pm : Music starts 7.30pm : Finale & Grand Fireworks Display 10.00pm.

TICKETS: Adult £12.50 : 12-16yrs £5 : Under 12’s Free : On the day/night £15.00 FREE Parking Credit Card Hotline: 0116 231 8431 For more information ring: 0116 231 8431 or log on to www.wistow.com Tickets also sold at Baileys at Wistow Rural Centre, Glebe Garden Centre (Countesthorpe) and all 24 LOROS Shops throughout Leicestershire & Rutland, including Oadby, Blaby, Market Harborough, Wigston, Leicester Market Place & Queens Road Bookshop.

Wet or dry the show goes on. No fires or barbecues.

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Local Entertainment Woodhouse Eaves Cinema presents… ...A Good Year

The Rothley & Thurcaston British Legion Celebrate with

Nosh & Nostalgia Tuesday 20th May 2014

Wednesday 4th June 2014 - 7.30pm.

A British investment broker inherits his uncle’s chateau and vineyard in Provence, France, where he spent much of his childhood. He discovers a new laid-back lifestyle as he tries to renovate the estate to be sold.

Directed by Ridley Scott, starring Russell Crowe, Marion Cotillard & Albert Finney.

Romantic comedy-drama | 12A | Run time: 1 hr 57 mins Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall | £4 with refreshments Tickets: PO, Spar, Newsagent or on door or 01509 890050.

Newtown Linford Choral Society

Summer Concert Tickets are selling fast for the Choral Society’s Summer Concert to be held in Newtown Linford Village Hall on Thursday 12th, Friday 13th and Saturday 14th June.

The music will be light hearted to reflect the season, and this year’s theme will be ‘Colours’. The songs will therefore include numbers such as Fields of Gold, Over the Rainbow, and Autumn Leaves.

A two course supper will be served on the Friday and Saturday nights, when tickets are priced at £16 (£9 children 14 and under), and the evening commences at 7.15 pm. On Thursday night tickets are £8 (£5 children), when there will ‘nibbles’, and a starting time of 8pm. On all three nights there will be a licensed bar.

For tickets contact Peter and Iris Sayer on 01530 243822.

The local British Legion invite everyone to come and join them in their annual get-together and celebration “Nosh & Nostalgia”. This is an excellent supper, cooked on the premises by their own chef, followed by the singing of songs from the shows and Very Lynn classics.

The singing will be lead by entertainers who, as in the past years, have stimulated the audience into a singing frenzy.

Tickets at £12.50 per person and are available by calling Norman Pratt on 0116 237 5254. Early booking is advisable as this is a very popular event. If preferred you may book by post, including a cheque made out to the Rothley & Thurcaston British Legion, a stamped, re-addressed envelope. The postal address is: Norman Pratt, 17 Windmill End, Rothley, Leicestershire LE7 7RP. The event will be held at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane Rothley. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

May Day Spectacular

Monday 5th May 2014. 12 noon - 5pm The annual Quorn May Day Spectacular will be packed full of all things fun including children’s fairground rides, stalls, beer tent & refreshments, Punch & Judy, there will of course be the annual duck race and dog show and new this year, a small pets competition.

Go along and enjoy an afternoon of traditional entertainment, watch the village children dancing round the maypole and listen to local musicians.

There’s something for everyone.

Stafford Orchard, Station Road, Quorn, LE12 8BS.

Bradgate Drama Society Presents

Snake in the Grass The Society’s Spring production is Alan Ayckbourn’s ‘Snake in the Grass’, a ghostly thriller which will have you on the edge of your seat.

Performances are on Friday 16th. and Saturday 17th.

May beginning at 7.30pm in Newtown Linford Village Hall.

If you’d like to join us for an extremely spooky night out tickets, price £7, are available from Lesley Baker (01509 890771), Toby Manning (01530 245 298) or by email at: bradgatedrama@gmail.com

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OUT AND ABOUT Saturday 7 June 2014 | Car Boot Come and join us for an interesting morning of discovery!

Hidden gems are still awaiting to be found and there is always the chance that simple items such as a replacement for the garden trowel thrown away with garden refuse, or a new tea pot lid, will be there to be bought at a knock drop price!!

Or just come to enjoy homemade refreshments ‘Mary Berry’ style. Proceeds for St. Peters Church Copt Oak. 9am until 12 noon (stalls set up 8am) | Cars £5 - all other vehicles £8 | Entrance 50p - children free | Booking or further details ring 0116 2674746.

Thursday 29 May 2014 Shlomo’s Human Geekbox...For Kids!

Shlomo is back. The World Record Holding beatboxer returns to The Spark with his brand new interactive eargasmic experience.

Monday 26 May 2014 - Family Day Out at

Oaks in Charnwood Country Fair There will be the traditional loved stalls including Cakes, Tombola, HogRoast etc added to the new, Ollie-bobs textiles, Capture A Moment (handmade wooden crafts), Photography

by Arlene, Sweets and Chocolates, etc.

Enter your woofy, waggy friend into The Dog Show. Can you guess how many balloons are in the tractor? For the kids, Fairground rides, Bouncy Castles, Bouncy Slides, Hook-a-duck, Face-Painting etc.

Need a bit of pampering? Enter The Beauty Tent, get a massage, a facials, manicure or pedicure. There are also plenty of refreshments available for you to delve into.

For further details see www.oaks-country-fair.co.uk | 10am 4:30pm | Entrance £2.50, under 16s FREE | Oaks Road, Oaks in Charnwood, Leicestershire, LE12 9YD | Contact Charlotte for further details: 07799 065281.

£6 (£12 performance and workshop - child). Suitable for 5+ years. Running time 45 mins. 3pm. 0116 255 7066 The Y, 7 East Street, Leicester LE1 6EY

LOCAL EVENTS Thursday 01 May | Charity Whist Drive The next in the series of Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr. All players welcome. 1st Thursday of every month.

Admission £2 | 7.30pm | Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley | Large free car park available.

Thursday 01 May | Mountsorrel Townswomen’s Guild The Townswomen’s Guild meets in the Parish Room to which all ladies are welcome. Ian Retson of the Woodland Trust will present an illustrated talk entitled “Photographs of Trees”.

7:30pm | The Townswomen’s Guild meets in The Parish Rooms, Leicester Road, Mountsorrel.

Friday 02 May | CONCERT: The Elvis Years 1954-1977 An outstanding concert production of the West End musical Jailhouse Rock featuring original star Mario Kombou and his incredible band led by legendary producer and musical director David Mackay, in the UK’s number one Elvis show.

Tel: 01509 231914 | 8pm | Tickets: £19, £17 concs. | Loughborough Town Hall, Market Place, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3EB

Friday 02 May (every Friday) | Just Play Football Fancy a kick about? Just come along and ‘just play’ on Charnwood Colleges 3G rubber crumb (gate 4). £2 per session | 16+ | Contact: Sam Chamberlain | E-mail: sam.chamberlain@charnwood.gov.uk | Tel: 01509 634673 | Price: £2.00 | 7:30 - 8:30pm | Charnwood College, Loughborough.

Saturday 03 & Sunday 04 May | Artisan Cheese Fair Now in its fourth year, over fifty of the UK’s artisan and farmhouse cheese makers will attend what is now the largest gathering of British artisan cheese-makers in the country.

Melton Mowbray Cattle Market, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire | £1 entry | 10am - 4pm

Saturday 03, Sunday 04 & Monday 05 May | Donington Historic Festival With close-fought racing every day, historic rally car and karting action and a ‘living motoring museum’ created by dozens of car clubs displays, plus a host of other entertainment and attractions, exhilaration and entertainment.

Donington Park, Castle Donington, Leicestershire, DE74 2RP | Tel: 0844 8737355 | Tickets in advance: 1 day = £20, 2 day = £32, 3 day = £45. Tickets on the gate: 1 day = £25, 2 day = £40, 3 day = £60. Children under 13 will be admitted free of charge.

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LOCAL EVENTS Saturday 03 May | Woodlands and Veteran Trees at Bradgate Park Explore historic woodland areas – Coppice Wood, Dale Wood and also Coronation Wood (an area of oak planted in 1953) and an area of Ancient Woodland Pasture with its scattering of veteran oak. Meet at Hallgates (Cropston) Car Park.

2:30pm | Wildlife Events are pre-bookable and charged at £3 per adult and £1.50 per child, children under 5 free | 0116 236 2713

Thursday 08 May | Birstall & District Local History Society Monthly meeting - ‘You Are All Living History’ talk by Felicity Austin. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month.

The Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, LE4 4DH | Contact: Mrs A Topley (secretary): 0116 292 8214.

Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 May | Open Church - Swithland Open Church for tea and cakes at St. Leonard’s Church, Swithland from 2pm till 4.30pm, – sale of second-hand books – donations in aid of Church Funds.

Sunday 11 May | The 86th Bluebell Service The 86th Bluebell Service will take place at The Great Pit, Swithland Woods commencing at 3pm, Preacher Rev’d. Louise Corke, Team vicar Newtown Linford. Music accompaniment Wellbeck College Band. Collection to a local charity TBA. All welcome.

Monday 12 May | World War One Memorabilia Roadshow Charnwood Museum, Loughborough Carillon War Memorial Museum, and Leicestershire Libraries have joined forces to conduct a number of ‘Road Shows’. Members of the public are invited to bring along to Loughborough Library any military or other memorabilia they may have relating to WW1. Objects, documents and photographs will be discussed and identified.

FREE EVENT | Loughborough Library | Tel: 0116 305 2420 | 2pm - 4pm

Wednesday 14 May | Loughborough Farmers Market Producers from across the Midlands come to Loughborough’s Farmers’ Market to sell a wide range of interesting, organic and healthy food and drink on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, selling a wide range of excellent local produce such as meat, wine, bread, fruit and vegetables, cheeses, honey, eggs, homemade sauces and preserves as well as therapeutic products to name but a few.

Market Place, Loughborough | Contact: Jonathon Smith: 01509 634624 | email: market.fairs@charnwood.gov.uk | 9am-2pm

Saturday 17 May | Messy Church All Children welcome whatever the age - Carers, parents, grandparents, Aunts and Uncles etc come and join in the fun of craft activities and share a meal. For more info please ring Sue Waiwright on 07585557548. The forth Saturday of the month (except May).

3 - 5pm | Methodist Hall, Howe Lane, Rothley

Sunday 25 May | Wagging ‘n’ Walking Summer Fair Everything to keep your hound happy! 2013’s event included 20 different dog-mad stalls, ‘have-a-go’ agility, flyball and dog show, the Newfoundland’s water rescue team, groomers, ice creams, hot food, dog walking equipment, dog toys and collars, dog food specialists, raffles and tombolas. 2014 will be even bigger and better with a bouncy castle and lots more local businesses showing off what they can offer your prize pooch!

From 11am | Sence Valley Park (LE67 6NW). Entry is free and everyone (including your dogs) are welcome!

Tuesday 20 - Thursday 22 May | The Gruffalo Live On Stage!

Don’t miss Tall Stories’ magical musical stage adaptation of the award-winning picture book, The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Performance times: Tue 1.30pm & 4.30pm, Wed 10.30am & 4.30pm, Thu 10.30am, 1.30pm & 4.30pm.

Tickets: £10 - £12 | Curve, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB | Tel: 0116 242 3595

Friday 23 - Sunday 25 May | Glastonbudget 2014 Spend the weekend dancing away at the biggest tribute act festival in Leicestershire. See the Antarctic Monkeys, Jilted Generation, Dep Leppard, Pearl Jammer, Blurb and many more great tribute bands.

There are a range of ticket options available, from day tickets to full weekend passes. See the website for more details and the chance to book - www.glastonbudget.org | Turnpost Farm, Six Hills Road, Wymeswold, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE12 6ST

Sunday 01 June | Bradgate Park Early Summer Fair Local produce, Arts & Crafts, Gifts, Demonstrations and much more. NEW STALLHOLDERS WELCOME.

Bradgate Park, Newtown Linford | Contact: Lynda Taylor Tel: 0116 236 2713 | Email: estate-office@bradgatepark.org May / June 2014

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THE BRADGATE DIRECTORY

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Caroline James............................... 59 Crown Jewellers.............................. 49 Smartly Stitched Tailors.................. 50 Syston Jewellers............................. 45 EDUCATION Grace Dieu Manor School............... 35 Leicester College............................ 38 Rawlins - Adult Courses.................. 33 Richard Hill School Charity............. 38 Thurcaston Pre-School................... 35 FLORISTS Designer Daisies............................. 47 FOOD, DRINK & VENUES Family Cellar................................... 45 Flying Horse.................................... 29 Gino’s Pear Tree.............................. 29 Greenacres Cafe - Wartime events..... 55 Grey Lady Kitchen & Deli................ 28 Old Fashioned Milk Co.................... 28 The Restaurant at The Mountsorrel......28 Vintage Afternoon Teas.................. 48 The Wedding Café.......................... 47 Woodcock Farm Shop..................... 20 GARDEN Bentley’s Garden Buildings............. 64 Charnwood Paving.......................... 25 Charnwood Tree Services............... 24 Compost at Home............................ 4 East Mids Mowers & Machines........ 4 Garden Blueprints............................ 6 George Walker................................ 44 LB Landscaping............................... 24 Neil Johnson Landscaping.............. 25 Roecliffe Tree Surgery..................... 24 HAIR & BEAUTY Aqua Hair........................................ 49 Elite Hairstyles................................ 49 Rebecca Ann Hair Studio................ 45 Season’s Day Spa............................ 48 Zoe’s Mobile Hairdressing.............. 48

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HEALTH Charnwood Hearing Centre............ 61 Charnwood Physiotherapy............. 61 Helping Hands................................ 58 Quorndon Care............................... 58 HOME ABD Picture Framing...................... 61 Ablutions........................................ 63 Absolute Window Solutions............. 2 Ancient & Modern............................ 6 Anstey Homecrafts......................... 61 Ashby Decorators Centre................ 20 Bentons............................................ 4 Broughtons....................................... 5 Charmwood Fine Arts....................... 6 Charmwood Kitchens & Bedrooms....... 18 Charn. Oaks Roofing & Building........... 11 Clock Doctor..................................... 6 CV Lane........................................... 11 Daniel Chapman -Painter & Decorator... 6 DeVol...................................... 14 + 15 DG Plumbing................................... 61 DP Furnishings................................ 43 Evans Fireplaces............................. 44 Glenwood Interiors......................... 18 Graham Botterill............................... 6 Holme Tree Kitchens......................... 4 Keller Construction........................... 5 Loft Storage Solutions...................... 3 Logburners Ltd.................................. 3 Low Woods Furnishings.................... 3 Martin Allen Flooring....................... 5 MGAS.............................................. 20 Midland Bi-folds............................. 47 MJ Flint -Painter & Decorator................. 6 Mr B.................................................. 6 My Spa UK........................................ 7 Papermoon..................................... 42 Peter Smith Kitchens...................... 20 RJ Rowley........................................ 11 Simon Shuttlewood Upholstery......... 61 Splashout........................................ 21 Terry Allen Painter & Decorator........... 61

HOME continued...

UK Gas Services.............................. 18 Watson’s Electrical........................... 6 Wonderclean.................................. 11 Wreake Valley Flooring................... 46 Your Blinds...................................... 43 LEISURE Big Family Bike Ride........................ 38 Bradgate Party Tents....................... 58 GCR Wartime Weekend.................. 32 Holiday Home To Rent.................... 55 Just Bikes........................................ 32 Laver Holidays................................ 55 Play In The Park - Bradgate Park..... 55 Sports & Courts Line Marking........ 33 MOTORS Cropston Garage............................. 61 VeeDubs Servicing.......................... 45 PETS & ANIMALS Anstey Cattery................................ 50 Glebe Von Wood............................ 50 Pawtraits......................................... 50 Retreat Boarding Kennels............... 50 The Veterinary Surgery................... 50 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Adoption Services........................... 39 Dodds Solicitors LLP........................ 33 Fostering Services........................... 35 Lee Cooper Funeral Directors.............. 62 Prusinski Solicitors.......................... 62 Public Consultation - Libraries........ 32

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May / June 2014

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May / June 2014

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