August 2010 Herald Magazine

Packed with information!

Please read every page!

Don’t miss the Bagworth Open Show: Saturday 28th August The Eighth Annual Bagworth Open Show is on Saturday August 28 in the Community Centre and is organised by the Bagworth Forward Group.

If you have not been before, it is a Show of two parts. In the Hall there are exhibits of fruit, vegetables, flowers, cooking, arts and crafts, etc. If you have not had a schedule and would like to receive one, please see the contact numbers at the bottom of this article - or visit the Herald website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk and download a copy.

Entries cost 25p per entry, children are free. There are cash prizes to win for first, second and third in each class. There are 109 classes in all, so there must be something for you. There are 14 cups and trophies to be won. In addition there will be

Continued on page 3

Help for Heroes On Tuesday 20 July, Mrs Pauline Bott, assistant manager at Markfield Court Retirement Village undertook a 10 mile walk around the Village in aid of Help for Heroes.

Setting off at just before 8am she completed the distance in 3 hours 9 minutes and 23 seconds. She was fully supported by many of the residents of the Village and at no time did she have to walk alone.

In spite of the pace set by Pauline, as is typical of her, she never lost her sense of humour or her ability to chat and chat and chat! Her achievement has been crowned by her raising the magnificent sum of £702.33. Her aim at the start was £50! Well done Pauline. The photo underlines her achievement and sense of fun as she crawls across the finishing line.

EARLY-AUGUST 2010

Fabulous Fashions Raise Funds for Foundation

This year the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation Leicestershire’s unique registered charity - celebrates its 20th Anniversary.

On Thursday 9th September, the Foundation is hosting two fashion shows by Dressini, the Midlands number one independent fashion outlet, in the beautiful grounds of Ulverscroft Manor, Priory Lane, Ulverscroft nr Markfield on Thursday 9th September 2010. Admission is by ticket only, which are priced at £10 each.

The morning show begins at 11am and the afternoon show at 2pm.

Tickets are available from the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation on 01530 244914 or email admin@shuttlewood-clarke.org or at Dressini on 01455 290234.

SEE PAGE 2 FOR MORE NEWS FROM SHUTTLEWOOD CLARKE

REDGATE FARM ANIMAL SANCTUARY

DOG SHOW & FÊTE Sunday 15th August 11:00 a.m. – 3:45p.m.

Dog Registration from 10:00a.m.

Entrance: £ 1.50

Plenty of FREE parking (off Billa Barra Lane) Dog Agility classes & games all day - Craft Stalls – other Stalls & Side-shows – Competitions - Hot and Cold Food – Teddy Bear Tombola – Ice Creams - ‘Mini-Beach’ with Paddling Pool – Bouncy Castles - Raffle *Visit the REDGATE ponies, dogs, cats, goats, pigs, parakeets, owls & rabbits while you’re here!

A brilliant day out for the whole family – bring your own dog!

01530 243 925

www.redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk

Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary, Shaw Lane / Billa Barra Lane, Nr. Stanton

Andy Hollingbery

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 4th September - Advert & Articles Needed By 21st August

This issue of The Herald is being delivered over the weekend of 7th & 8th August 2010 by our team of dedicated deliverers, namely: Amy, Coral, Daisy, Daniel, Don, Sam, Maureen, John, Yvonne, Lauren, Gill, John, Helen, Jeanie, Jenny, Sarah, Susan, Thomas, Tracey, Alex, Ann, Rowan and John & Sue.

Next Issue (SEPTEMBER) - Out on Weekend of 4th & 5th September. Please send your adverts & articles before 21st August.

The Herald PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT

Tel: 01530 244069 Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk Website: www.markfieldherald.co.uk The Herald is a monthly local magazine delivered free to approximately 4,000 homes and businesses in Markfield, Field Head, Stanton under Bardon, Thornton and Bagworth.

Contact Mike Wilkinson or Susan Hatton with your articles, news items or advertising enquiries.

Printed by Norwood Press in Ellistown.

The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Herald Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. The Herald cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. The Herald reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication.

All contents © The Herald None of the articles or adverts contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from The Herald.

Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation September Crafts & Flowers Event 10th & 11th September The Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation - with the help of Bradgate Flower Club - is holding a major event – September Crafts and Flowers.

On Friday 10th and Saturday 11th September, 2010, Ulverscroft Manor will be decorated with flowers telling the story of the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation.

Friday 10th September – Flower Festival – 10.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

‘Celebrating in Style’ - Demonstration by International Floral Designer Derek Armstrong. Demonstrations will take place at 10.30 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. Admission

by Pre-booked Ticket Only. £4.00 Admission £8.00 Flower Demonstration £10 Combined Ticket (per Person) Saturday 11th September – Flower Festival and Craft Fair – 11.00 a.m.-4.00 p.m. Admission Taken on the Day - £2.00 per Person for Craft Fair Additional £2.00 per Person for Flower Festival (to be taken before Entering the house). Children under 16 – Admission and Activity Tent – Free of Charge The Foundation which is based in Ulverscroft on the edge of the Charnwood Forest was established in 1989 by the late David Clarke and has since provided support, care and friendship to over 100,000 residents of the county through a wide variety of innovative projects and support services.

Markfield Community & Sports Centre Mayflower Close, Markfield, LE67 9ST Tel: 01530 242240 www.markfieldcommunitycentre.com

Regular Clubs & Classes for all ages.

Excellent Facilities You can hire the centre for your event!

ADVERTISING RATES - PAGE 35

TV actor stages workshops in Hinckley ACTOR Colin Wells, who has appeared in a string of popular TV shows, will be holding acting and technical workshops in Hinckley next month.

Colin, who has appeared in shows such as Casualty, Hotel Babylon, Hollyoaks and Mistresses, will be staging the workshops in the Atkins Building on Tuesday 10 August and Saturday 28 August from 10am to 5pm.

Colin’s business - Interaction Film - works with schools and community groups to help them make their own productions using scripts from the shows he has been in.

This workshops are aimed at young people between the ages of 11 and 25 who are keen to act or be part of the technical team, but no previous acting experience is necessary. The workshops are free as they are funded

by Positive Activities for Young People. Pre-booking essential.

For more information contact Lindsay Orton on 01455 255833, or email Lindsay.Orton@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk.

I truly believe that all deadlines are unreasonable regardless of the amount of time given.

Bagworth Open Show From front page trophies for the best front gardens in the village, one for large and one for small.

There will also be a cup for the best Park Lane allotment.

These will all be awarded on August 28.

Exhibits can be entered on Friday night between 7-8 pm and on Saturday morning between 8.15 – 10.30 am. It is best to arrive early rather than late. The Hall will be closed at 11.15 am for judging. When the judges have finished, at about 2 pm, it will be open for viewing. At 4 pm the prize giving will take place followed by an auction of the exhibits. If you have never been to such a Show it is worth a visit as you will be impressed by some of the exhibits. Please do not think that your exhibits will not be good enough. You may be in the class where there are no other exhibits, so you stand a good chance of winning!

The second part of the Show takes place outside on the playing field. From 2 pm onwards there will be stalls and side shows for everyone. There will be refreshments and lots of chances to win prizes and have fun. You can also see horses being shod and birds of prey, amongst other interesting items.

The whole of the day, whether inside or out, is free. There is no admission charge. The Town Crier will be in attendance to declare the Show open. He will be walking through the Village before this so do look out for him.

All of the profit that we make on the day is used to enhance the life of the village. Last year we raised just over £2000 and with your help, we would like to do better this year. Our two major projects at present are the Village sign and the Miners’ Memorial Garden. The profits will go towards these projects, as well as the plants that we buy throughout the village. If you would like to help in any way on the day or if you would like to rent a stall (the rent is £10 per stall or £15 with one of our gazebos) then please contact us. Rosemary (01530 230347), Bob (01530 230429; Austin@bagworth. freeserve.co.uk)

Dianne raises over £6,000 for Cancer Research

Dianne Dowell of Markfield, and 23 of her friends, completed a charity bike ride, from Leicester to Skegness in May. Dianne then organised a charity disco in June to raise a grand total of £6091. All proceeds went to cancer research. Dianne would like to thank everyone for their help and support with these events.

Next year Dianne will be climbing Ben Nevis - join her if you wish!

I know that the work cycle is not PLAN-START-FINISH but is WAIT-PLAN-PLAN

Without bulbs our gardens would lack most early Spring colour.

We should all, perhaps, plant more, be it in the ground, in containers or for indoor decoration. Much neglected are Winter/Spring hanging baskets. The smaller bulbs, together with Ivies, Winter Heathers, Pansies and small shrubs are ideal for these. Most bulbs will be purchased later and locally, but now is the time to consult those specialist bulb colour catalogues.

Designed to temp purchasing, they also reveal the very wide range available. The whole Daffodil family (all are Narcissus)) together with tulips will always dominate but I make a plea for the Fritillarias.

These latter are all so beautiful – just consider our native Snake’s Head Fritillary (pictured above) (F. Meliagris). Most will know the large growing F. Imperialis (Crown Imperial); others are Fritillarias Pallidiflora, Pontica and Acmopetala.

I mention two more rather unusual ones. Firstly F. Raddeana, March/ April flowers on 2 feet stems. These are large clusters of pale yellow/ green pendulous bells. Each bulb costs about a fiver. Will seem like a give-away price when the flower is seen! Secondly is F. Pudica, a miniature at only 4 to 6” tall. Each bulb has a single (sometimes two) bright yellow hanging bell during April/May. Again expensive at, say,

Gardening Notes with Ted

Brown of Markfield

August Miscellany £2.50 per bulb. Needs a sunny well drained position. All Fritillarias are not for smelling. Supremely beautiful but rather pongy!

The taller Tulips are a delight but often last but a season or two unless lifted after flowering. The Darwin Hybrids are better than most in this respect. The small growing species tend to be quite perennial given a sunny, well drained position. Good ones to try are Clusiana, Humilis, Linifolia, Saxatilis, Sylvestris and Turkestanica. A particular favourite if Tulip Sprengeri. A superb, end of season beauty with brilliant red, gold backed flowers on 15” stems.

Not too easily found, as said to be difficult to grow commercially – but not in our gardens where it will spread around when happily placed. Also expensive – I have seen the priced at £4 a bulb. Seed is readily available to give a large inexpensive collection. From sowing to flowering about 4 years!

Two other rather ‘different’ bulbs – both quite beautiful – to consider are Gladiolus Byzantinus and an

Allium relative with the dreadful name Nectaroscordium Siculum (pictured above). The Gladiolus

is bone-hardy with stunning purple/ red flowers during May/June.

Once seen it becomes a wanted plant. The Allium is more modestly beautiful. Tall 4 to 5ft stems bear umbels of white flowers with purple and green staining, each with up to 30 hanging bells. A sensation at Chelsea a few years ago. Excellent for dried flowers.

A last word on bulbs for Autumn.

Snowdrops are usually better purchased as living plants in early Spring. This is because bulbs dryout so readily. However, specialist growers store them correctly and bulbs supplied by them should grow normally.

Fontenay’ and ‘Ratte’ together with ‘Nicola’ her particular choice in this second early/main crop section. No surprise that Sue found ‘Rocket’ rather a waste of time. In the past I have grown ‘Foremost’ and found it tasty. Not so Sarah. Also Sue was surprisingly hesitant on ‘Charlotte’ which is a favourite of many growers and cooks.

Diascias We know these as small growing plants with orangey/pink flowers over a long period, making them ideal as bedding and patio plants. All hail from South Africa, moderately hardy in a normal Winter, but certainly lost in a Winter like the recent one. All very easily propagated from cuttings, which, kept away from frost, can keep stocks going. This will be particularly helpful with a new and

Potatoes A good tip from Monty Don. When picking early or second early potatoes, put a few aside for immediate re-planting in bags or containers, to give a crop about Christmas. Easily removable to avoid frosts.

Sarah Raven’s advice is always welcome as it is based on her own garden trials. This year Sue has grown 14 or so different potatoes (in bags) for taste-testing. To

summarize, she found ‘Winston’ (pictured above) her favourite first early, ‘Anya’ her second early and best salad variety. Sue recommends also ‘International Kidney’ (Jersey Royals), ‘Belle De

Do hermits ever suffer from peer pressure?

rather differing ‘Diascia Personata’ (pictured above). This is more a border plant as it is upright growing to 2½ft with long-lasting flowers in typical Diascia colour. Definitely a plant to acquire.

Tomatoes Stories of strange Tomatoes continue.

An Italian grower has apparently raised a square Tomato!

He claims it is higher in nutrient quality than other Tomatoes. Sure to be with such a shape!

♦ Family/Matrimonial ♦ Residential Conveyancing ♦ Commercial Property & Leases ♦ Company & Partnership ♦ Employment ♦ Litigation & Debt Recovery ♦ Wills & Probate

Leicester Office

22 De Montfort Street Leicester LE1 7GB 0116 2551811

Blaby Office

33 Leicester Road Blaby LE8 4GR 0116 2643430

Coalville Office

39-41 Belvoir Road Coalville LE67 3PD 01530 835041

We have a strong commitment to professionalism and client service and care. We aim to provide our clients with affordable prices.

For further information and advice, please contact one of our Offices Our Blaby and Coalville Offices are open Saturday Mornings 9am—12pm no appointment necessary

Pete’s Party - in memory of Pete Banks Local residents are busy raising money for international charity Riders for Health.

The annual family fun day “Petes Party” will be held at the Shoulder of Mutton in Ashby de la Zouch on the 28th August 2010. Supporters are invited to join us to enjoy live music, food, bouncy castle, face painting, magic and games. The highlight of the day will be the annual auction and raffle. Prizes this year include: • T Shirt signed by Moto GPs Randy de Puniet • Book signed by Moto GPs Jorge Lorenzo • 2 places on the guest list for the 2011 Day of Champions in partnership with MotoGP and Riders for Health • The chance to spend a day as a falconer, donated by the Cotswold Falconry Centre, Moreton in Marsh • Tickets to West Midlands Safari Park, Worcestershire Team members are doing a sponsored swim on the 13th August at Hood Park. One team member, Rae Surtee is demonstrating his commitment by jumping out of a plane and Steve has already demonstrated his by running up, and down, 3 Yorkshire Peaks raising £225.

To support our work, as an individual or a business, go to www.justgiving. com/petesparty or call the team on 07999338624.

Proceeds from the day go to Riders for Health. This organisation works closely with local people and governments to provide health workers in the third world with access to two and four wheeled vehicles so vital medicines and care can reach isolated areas. Famously supported

by Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman in ‘The Long Way Down’ Riders provide real grass-roots projects, particularly focusing on providing skills training to enable local people to continue maintaining and using the vehicles independently. For more information visit www.riders.org.

Pete’s Party is held in memory of the life of Pete Banks who was tragically killed in a road accident several years ago aged just 27. He is still missed by all his family and friends, and colleagues at South Charnwood School near Markfield where he worked as an IT Technician for many years.

Over the last 4 years, Pete’s Party has raised £11,500, enough for 4 fully maintained motorbikes to support health workers in third world countries.

So come along and join us on the 28th August 2010, at the Shoulder of Mutton, Ashby de la Zouch 10am – Late.

I talk to myself a lot, and it bothers some people because I use a megaphone.

The sun shines twice on Markfield WI members The wonderful weather in June allowed several members of Markfield WI to spend quality time together in the sunshine!

This has made quite a change for us as most of our outdoor social activities over the past couple of years have been either wet or cold or both. However the sun has shone on us twice recently and we have the photos to prove it!

On June 22nd a group attended the evening performance of Guys and Dolls at Kilworth House. It was a balmy summer’s evening, the bus transported us there and back so wine could be consumed with the picnic and the show was excellent. Some members even persuaded their husbands to come along as well. There were several highspots during the show but possibly the most amazing was the arrival of an aeroplane – only a rather small one but it did fly.

Then again on June 30th the weather was kind as a party of ten boarded the train to London to visit the Victoria & Albert Museum to see the Quilts 1700 - 2010 exhibition. Typically our reserved seats were not reserved but neither were anyone else’s. However we did all get a seat, even the one member who had forgotten her ticket was able to persuade those in charge that she was honest and was given a document which allowed her to travel! We arrived safely in the big city and made our way to Kensington Palace where we enjoyed coffee in the elegant surroundings of The Orangery followed by a stroll in the sunshine to the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. Here we joined the many small children for a paddle! Lunch in the open air, a short walk to the V&A for an ice cream and then the exhibition which was wonderful.

This exhibition traced the history of British quilts and patchwork from the 1700s up to the present day. There were several quilts by modern artists and also some with very poignant messages and histories. One of the most moving was a quilt made by a troop of Guides who were imprisoned in Changi jail during the Second World War. The girls had cut small pieces from their dresses to make up the quilt and embroidered their names and patrol badges on some of the central pieces. We wondered how many of these young girls returned safely to England. There was a quilt made by prisoners in Wandsworth Jail, one made by women prisoners being transported to Australia and many more with special significance. We also learned of the role the WI had in helping to sustain traditional craft skills by encouraging British

women to find creative and domestic pleasures by learning crafts which also helped them to earn a living. Many women brought an income into the home by forming groups to make quilts for the more well off. We spent almost two hours in the exhibition and I think could have gone back again the next day!

Finally a taxi ride through the London rush hour took us back to St Pancras Station and a most enjoyable Italian meal before the journey home, in our reserved seats. Everyone tired but happy and ready for the next trip with Markfield WI. Our next meeting will be Wednesday, August 18th when the speaker will be Mrs J Taylor who will be giving a talk entitled Post Office Patter. Do come along as a visitor and see if you would like to join us.

Fran Johnson

Bagworth & Thornton Neighbourhood Watch

Would you like to find out more about what is happening in your neighbourhood?

• • •

Are you concerned about crime locally?

Have you got elderly or vulnerable neighbours?

Have you taken steps to make your home secure?

• Do you have any concerns about anti-social behaviour or domestic violence in your locality?

• Do local traffic issues worry you?

• Would you to find out more about recent developments in home security?

If you have answered yes to any of the above, then joining a NWH Scheme is the answer you are looking for.

If you belong to a scheme you could: • Receive regular updates from the police about local incidents • Prevent crime through additional security • Reduce opportunities for crime through increased

awareness • Be able to voice local concerns and problems • Buy SmartWater security marking at a reduced rate • Receive regular newsletters detailing community information If you would like to find out more information on how to set up or join a NHW group please contact me on the following: Anita Beeby - mobile: 07889 219843 or email: nwdo@btinternet.com And finally, as the Neighbourhood Watch Development Officer for the Parish I can also take forward any concerns or queries you may have to the Police, so again please contact me if I can help in anyway.

I look forward to hearing from you and together we can make our Parish a safer place to live!

I just got back from a pleasure trip. I took my mother-in-law to the airport.

Groby 95 x 132:Jan 09 11x14

08/07/2010

13:31

Ideas for living and giving‌ Homeware for your home, your friends, your table

Plus -

Luxury Coffee Lounge serving coffees, lunches, teas and cakes all day long MON-SAT 9AM-5PM, SUNDAY

10AM-4PM

75 CROPSTON ROAD, ANSTEY, LEICESTERSHIRE TELEPHONE: 0116 234 0700

www.broughtonsinteriors.co.uk

10% OFF all furniture orders placed in July and August 2010

My brother was a lifeguard in a car wash.

Page 1

Bagworth and Thornton Parish Plan Update From Joanne Brown Becoming a Parish Councillor Would you like to make a difference in your community? Why not become a parish councillor?

sponsibility of the local authority, in our case the Parish Council.

However we have now been informed that some parish councillors have requested an opportunity to discuss the matter again. This cannot take place until 6 months after the first decision so we expect that it should appear on December’s agenda.

In May 2011 there will be parish council elections and your name could be on the list of candidates! Now is Well Being Clinic Thornton the time to start thinking about it. If you don’t want to become a local councillor yourself, you might be able to September 23rd encourage someone who does.

The next Well Being Clinic will take A parish council is a local authority that makes deciplace at Thornton Community Centre on sions on behalf of the people in the parish. It is the level September 23rd. Further details will be of local government closest to the community. Parish published in the next edition of The Herald. councils have a wide range of responsibilities. They have the right to make representations on planning applications, on the state of footpaths and street lighting. They make decisions which affect your everyday life.

Through the Parish Plan and the User Satisfaction Survey a number of you said that you wanted greater involvement in decision making at a local level. So what are you waiting for? By voting and getting involved, you might be able to ensure a better service. Many people The Eighth Annual Garden, Craft think that their opinions don’t count and public statements over the years have further reduced and Produce Show the hope that local action can or will make any difference. The answer is – you vote, you deTo be held in cide. It’s an important way of having your say on Bagworth Village Hall the issues you care about and choosing who will take decisions on your behalf.

Saturday August 28, 2010 Over the next few months I shall be providing you with information about what a parish counTombolas/ Raffle/ Side cillor’s duties are and how you can become Shows/ Stalls/ Refreshments/ one. If you can’t wait to find out more, look at Farrier www.nalc.gov.uk Exhibits to be staged on Friday evening 7–8 pm.

Between now and next March why not attend Saturday morning 8.15–10.30 am. some parish council meetings. These usually alHall cleared for judging 11.15 am. ternate between Bagworth and Thornton and Viewing when judging has finished about 2 pm.

Prize giving 4.00 pm. take place on the first Monday of the month (apart from August and bank holidays).You can Auction of entries 4.30 pm. find out the dates and venues on the parish For further information or for a schedule: website or notice boards.

Rosemary (01530 230347), Bob (01530

Bagworth Open Show

Flashing Speed Warning Sign We have been advised by Voluntary Action Leicestershire that our grant application was unsuccessful because the provision of the signs is the re-

230429)

Free Admission Bagworth Forward Group ‘Enhancing the life of the village’

Free cinema shows start again FREE cinema shows for young people in Hinckley & Bosworth start again next month.

The film scheme is part of Centre Screen, supported by Phoenix Square in Leicester, and is funded

by Positive Activities for Young People. The programme for August is as follows: • Thursday 12 August (3.30pm) - Alice in Wonderland at Earl Shilton Methodist Church Hall • Friday 13 August (7pm) - Twilight New Moon at Hinckley Leisure Centre • Wednesday 18 August (7pm) - Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief at Markfield Community Centre • Thursday 26 August (4pm) - Avatar at the George Ward Centre in Barwell.

For more information contact Lindsay Orton, Creative Communities and Tourism Officer, on 01455 255833.

Stamp Fair: 12th September THE NEXT stamp fair in aid of LOROS will take place on Sunday 12th September at Newbold Verdon Primary School, Dragon Lane, Newbold Verdon - between 10am and 3pm.

If you’d like to donate stamps, please trim them leaving a border of about ¼ inch (6mm) around each stamp.

For more information, call Roger Simmons (01455 822645) or Graham Hunt (01455 822774).

Always try to do things in chronological order; it’s less confusing that way.

Markfield resident celebrates her 100th birthday On 10th June 2010, Mrs.Roslyn Johnson of Upland Drive, Markfield celebrated her 100th birthday with her family and friends.

Roslyn was born in Norwich into a large family and came to Leicester in the late 1930s to look for work. She was a trained shoe machinist and also worked in a munitions factory. She met and married my Dad and settled in Leicester.

She worked in the 1960s at Bentley Engineering as a catering assistant, before moving to Markfield in 1969.

She received lots of cards and flowers on her birthday and, of course, a card from the Queen.

Many congratulations to her - she has had a hard working life, right into her eighties. Well done Mam!

Love from daughter Sue and grandchildren Dean and Jayne.

Every morning is the dawn of a new error.

10

Boot camps are coming to Hinckley

URBAN Boot Camps are coming to Burbage Common in a bid to put some of the borough’s more adventurous residents through their paces to help them get fit.

And to launch the initiative, the Borough Council’s Active Together Team are offering all Hinckley and Bosworth residents free taster sessions on Tuesday 31st August at 7.30pm and Thursday 2nd September at 8pm on Burbage Common in Leicester Road, Hinckley.

The team will be working with the fully qualified staff from Urban Boot Camp to run the weekly outdoor training programme. Those taking part will experience unique outdoor training sessions that employ a range of military, functional, sports specific and dynamic methods to ensure a fulfilling workout that also gains results.

Andy Osborne, Co-Founder and Head of Training, said: “Urban Boot Camp has been running in parks in Leicestershire and has been really successful. We are really excited about working in partnership with Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council’s Active Together Team and will be putting residents through their paces.”

“Men and women of all fitness levels, ages, shapes, sizes and fitness abilities are welcome as we tailor our sessions to every need,” he said.

Councillor Wendy Moore, the Borough Council’s Executive Member for Cultural Services, added: “This is a good opportunity for everyone to improve their fitness levels under qualified supervision.

Why not come along to Burbage Common and have a go, you’ve nothing to lose.”

For further information or to book a free taster session, please contact a member of the UBC team on 0116 225 1886 or e-mail info@ urbanbootcamp.co.uk

County Councillor David Sprason’s Column The Coalition Government’s Programme It has now been made clear that the Country is in debt by £2.4 trillion, a figure difficult to comprehend but which the coalition government have started to deal with.

The decisions already taken to cut the number of national quangos must be welcomed we have also had the announcement on cutting the regional structures the Regional Assembly, East Midlands Development Agency & the Strategic Health Authority.

Locally we will see the end to the Primary Care Trust with its budget being transferred to the GPs and the County Council. This will give a greater emphasis on us being able to address some of our more local issues such as a GP provision in Bagworth that was never supported by the Primary Care Trust. The County Council will have a real role in joint commissioning with GPs; this I believe should give even more impetus for us to start to tackle the health inequalities with more of a locally joined up approach.

The government’s deficit reduction will and is already impacting on us locally as we have seen a cut in grants of £12.5 million from this year’s budget. Many of these are from the children and young peoples extended services projects which would have ended in March but are now unaffordable and unsustainable funding commitments. We will also have to find on top of the £66 million a further £20 million in efficiency savings over the next three years as the requirement is to find savings of 25%.

More locally the play-builder program has also been suspended this Department of Education grant scheme was put in place to provide new play equipment. Locally we

have benefited with a scheme in Thornton with two other projects now on hold one in Bagworth and the other in Desford. We have been told by the Department of Education that if schemes have started or committed to they will honour the grant; we have made representation on both of these schemes as contractors have committed to deliver them.

We have also had new opportunities presented to us, Public Health Budgets transferred to the County Council, Local Economic Partnerships in place of the East Midlands Development Agency and Area Based Budgets which will allow all public funding to be pooled together so a more joined up approach in delivering local public services in a more efficient way will be available. It is already known that the total budget allocated centrally to Leicestershire & Leicester is £6 billion however by the time it has gone through the layers of bureaucracy and reaches the local authorities it has shrunk to £2 billion. It also costs the public sector £200 million just to be ‘in business’, this is why a new approach is needed.

School buses More locally I need to update you on a number of issues. The first is the 838 Markfield School buses which will still be running from September and will continue to be charged for on a day by day basis.

The service has been commissioned by the County Council.

The petition on the suitability of the route has been presented to the Scrutiny Committee who agreed to set a Scrutiny Panel to look at the current home to school transport policy and the assessments of routes. We continue to stress that walking routes need to have a minimum width as single tracks, as is the case with the route to South Charnwood, are unacceptable.

Bagworth Sure Start Centre The work on the building of the Bagworth Children’s Sure Start Centre will soon be starting and planning permission has been agreed for the improvements to the Bagworth Community Centre the Trust are now looking to apply for grants.

The projects identified for Thornton are now all complete and the Thornton Action Group is still very vigilant and active with regards to the protection of the reservoir site.

Stanton School OFSTED Report Stanton under Bardon Primary School received a fantastic report from OFSTED so my congratulations go to all the staff and children.

Markfield BMX Finally the Markfield BMX club has now been established with the track moving forward with stakeholders agreeing in principle to funding the project. This has allowed for the Parish Council to apply for planning permission.

LETTER Last I knew I was Vice Chair of Friends of the Meadow, but here I write on my behalf.

I’ve just returned from a quick walk down to the woods by Thornton Reservoir and back. The MUGA (“Multi Use Games Area”) is excellent, as well as the new additions to the play area. I willingly eat humble pie, and thank Andy Brettle (OBE), Alan Hill and Paula Smith (those of the Recreational Committee, Parish Council, whom I knew) for carrying out their plans with such conviction.

It would be nice to think that maybe it helped there being a group who were watching every move, to bring the quality up further. And there will still be issues to resolve (I don’t live along that stretch), but the MUGA itself is well-positioned, well-made, and very much enjoyed by my sons.

Hats Off to Alan, Andy and Paula !

Martin Holt It only takes four men to wallpaper a house, but you have to slice them thinly.

11

Of all the friends I’ve ever had, you’re the first.

12

Extracts from the draft Sunday 30th May 2010: A day to remember minutes of Bagworth and Thornton Parish Council Sunday 30th of May; a day to celebrate Martin Foster’s career as a church organist, spanning over 60 years, was a very happy time, though tinged with sadness.

The following items were among the topics discussed at the Bagworth & Thornton Parish Council meeting held on Monday 7th June 2010: • Site Allocations: Borough Councillor Mr. O’Shea advised that following the change of Government, the recent site allocations for housing in the borough have now been postponed for the next 18 months; the core strategy however, will remain in place for the time being.

• Mr Finney: The case is due to go to appeal on 8th July 2010, several people have been involved with this including David Treddinick MP, a very positive letter has been sent to the inspector regarding the highways issue.

• Unauthorised Travellers’ Camps: Mr O’Shea advised that Mr Pickles has confirmed that no further unauthorised traveller’s camps will be permitted in the future.

• St Peter’s Church Toilets: A grant has been obtained for St Peters Church of £7,200 to assist with the cost of redevelopment of the toilets.

• Dog bins: Mr O’Shea advised that complaints have been received with regard to dog fouling near to Thornton School, he will liaise with the Parish Council and the Borough Council to see what action can be taken. Mrs Johnson also mentioned that there were problems with dog fouling on Park Lane.

Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator – Anita Beeby: The Chairman welcomed Mrs Beeby to the meeting as the newly appointed Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator. Anita advised that she had met with a number of other agencies and gave a very comprehensive account of her work to date.

Questions from members of the public: - A member of the public voiced concerns regarding the new SureStart Centre and was perturbed that financial negotiations did not seem to have been evident at the beginning of the project.

- Another member of the public expressed disappointment at the Parish Council’s recent decision to withdraw from the speed watch scheme. After some discussion it was agreed the item should be placed on the next agenda for rediscussion.

War Memorial – Thornton: A stonemason had been contacted and asked to provide a quotation for the cleaning and renovation of the memorial.

Bagworth Community Centre and Sure Start: Meeting required to approve the whole lease.

Thornton Community Centre: Councillor Walker reported that the roof repairs were imminent.

The main roof on the original hall has a leak, John will get the builder to have a look and carry out a temporary repair and then get quotes for the proper repairs to be carried out and a grant can be applied for.

Sports field and pavilion, Bagworth: The chairman Mr Ball gave an update and advised that a constitution is still awaited, safety certificates confirming that the building has been made safe are still required, there are problems with the full water tank and the sagging beams.

Muga, Bagworth - The funding for this project has not yet been applied for.

(At the time the Herald goes to press, these are the latest available minutes.

Visit http://bagworthandthornton. leicestershireparishcouncils.org/minutesarchive.html to view the minutes on the Parish Council’s website.)

Osgathorpe Rainbow of Fun Day & Zany Dog Show Sun. 15th Aug. 2010 / 12:30pm - 5:00pm

FREE admission & parking Fun for all in Osgathorpe (LE12 9TA) raising money for Rainbows Children’s Hospice for the 4th year running.

Zany Dog Show with all daft classes such as ‘Waggiest Tail’, ‘Fancy Dress’ ‘Treat Resistor’, ‘Champ Sausage Catcher’ etc. sponsored by The White House Kennels.

Stalls, Bouncy Castle, Face Painting, BBQ, Tea Tent, Aromatherapy, Mini Beer Festival & much, much more!

Full details including dog show classes & how to pre-register to make sure you can take part on www.funday.org.uk or call 01530 224579

A United Service of holy communion at Thornton Church, heralded in by the bells of St Peter’s, and Martin’s organ playing was very well attended by parishioners from all three villages, and further afield. I think everyone was doing the same as me - hanging on to the beautiful sound that Martin creates with the organ throughout the service.

As usual the people of the parish excelled themselves in providing a wonderful spread for the Come and Share lunch, including a beautiful and delicious looking cake provided by Sue Lee What a feast was set before us, enough for even the largest appetite. And lovely to see so many friends from across the parish, and beyond, present at the celebration.

And then what an incredible journey Martin took us on with his ‘Sponsored Hymn Playing’. A full church, again including many friends from the past, sang as lustily as they could, barely able to keep up with Martin as he dashed with aplomb through not 50, but 68 first verses and choruses of all our favourite hymns. Wow. Cups of tea quickly revived people’s voices and the air was soon buzzing with exclamations over how on earth Martin had managed 68 hymns. Martin declared that well over £500 had been raised by his efforts at the organ. The final amount is at the time of writing not known, but rumour has it that the amount exceeds £700.

I’m sure this must be in part a reflection of the esteem in which we all hold Martin Organised by Martin, Muriel and Iris it is a day for us all to remember. A fitting tribute to Martin. Thank you Muriel and Iris, and especially thank you, Martin for once again using your skills and creativity to give us so much pleasure and joy, at the same time raising funds for dear old St Peter’s Church.

Shirley Garlick

Hinckley & Bosworth Community Transport Supported by the Community Forum

Age Concern Hinckley and Bosworth with

Hinckley and Bosworth Community Transport are offering the

“Rural Access Project” Hinckley & Bosworth Area

The Rural Access Project is for the benefit of the Over 50’s in Rural Villages We can provide transport to:  Social Groups, coffee and a chat, well being sessions  Leisure Centres, swimming, exercise, badminton, short mat bowls, etc.  Shopping, Market towns, Supermarkets, Leisure attractions etc  Health Services, doctors, dentists, podiatry, hospitals  Information and Advice, libraries, education and more (Some villages may qualify for free taster sessions)

Are you interested?

Let us know what you need!

Get in touch to find out more!

Contact: Lindsay Short - 01455 250462 Sandra Baxter - 01530 833000

I’ve been looking for a girl like you - not you, but a girl like you.

13

Next Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum The next Markfield, Ratby and Groby (MRG) Community Forum will take place on 9th September 2010 at 7pm at the Methodist Church, 31 Station Road, Ratby, LE6 0JQ

What is a Forum?

The Community Forum meeting gives you the opportunity to discuss local services with your County, District and Parish Councillors and representatives from other agencies such as the Health Service and the Police. We would like you to come along to these meetings and have your say about how local services can be improved.

Who is involved?

The County Council, District Councils, Police and Health Service (the Primary Care Trust, or PCT) want to work together to involve people in the services they deliver and to help local people influence the services they receive.

How will it help and benefit me?

By attending your local forum meeting, representatives from the Police, the PCT and your local councils can tell you about services provided or planned in your area.

You will be able to obtain answers to queries about local services - such as policing levels, services available for young people, access to health care etc. Join your local County, District and Parish Councillors in discussions about how services could be improved.

This way, you can help influence and shape the services available for your community.

What about the bigger picture?

You can also use the forum to find out what is being done to tackle the bigger issues affecting your local community, including speeding, crime & anti-social behaviour, congestion, housing and planning policies and the availability of community facilities and leisure activities.

What won’t it do?

A forum is not able to go into detail about individual cases or someone’s personal issues - such as their planning applications, case work or care and services received.

Each forum meeting has a general ‘Question Time’ slot when queries and issues can be raised.

Meetings will also go into certain issues in detail. You will be able to obtain answers to queries about local services - such as policing levels, services available for young people, access to health care etc. These will be a mix of the topics that you and other local representatives have indicated you want to discuss, as well as those which service providers want to bring to your attention and on which they want your views. Through presentations and discussions on these issues with both service providers and local people, the forum will develop recommendations for further action. This is how you can help influence and shape the services available for your community.

What do I need to do to get involved?

Just turn up on the evening – with neighbours, friends & family if you want.If you have any requirements, please get in touch before the meeting, so that we can make suitable arrangements.

You don’t have to let us know in advance if you want to raise a query or an issue at the Forum meeting, as each forum meeting has a ‘Question Time’ slot, however, our chances of providing a satisfactory answer will increase if you are able to contact us in advance. Knowing the issues you want to raise will also help us decide which topics we should discuss in more detail at the Forum meetings.

WEBSITE: www. leicestershireforums.org/ markgro/

The last Memorial Football Match for Adam and Rachael will take place at Altar Stones playing fields on Monday 30 August 2010 (Bank Holiday Monday).

Kick off at 10.30am.

Afterwards there will be a BBQ at The Queens Head Pub. All Friends Welcome!

Wendy Turner

Two Bagworth events for your diary • Bagworth Free Family Disco: Friday 3rd September at 7.30pm at the Working Men’s Club (organised by Holy Rood Church in conjunction with the WMC) • Big Wave Youth Club, Bagworth Community Centre, Friday, 10th September at 7.30pm, for young people aged 10 to 16. Just come along. Organised activities run by the churches in Bagworth.

Country Music Evening at The Charnwood Arms Saturday 21st August 2010

Top UK Country Band WEST VIRGINIAN - PLUS a Special Guest Appearance of a Professional Skater from TV’s Dancing On Ice Doors Open 7pm until 11pm Limited Admission - Only 200 Tickets Available Book Now to Avoid Disappointment Contact ANN on 01530 230389 (after 5pm) for ticket price and further details.

CHARITY EVENT - RAISING FUNDS FOR GUIDE DOGS

Markfield Interfaith Group News The Group met for an evening of Poetry and Music on July 2nd at the Islamic Foundation Library. The evening commenced with an introduction to the work of the 13th Century Mystic Poet RUMI.

Rumi, one of the greatest Sufi Poets, was both Teacher and Theologian who along with his spiritual friend Shams strove to understand the deeper meaning of faith communion with God, contemplating the meaning of life and death. With the death of Shams, Rumi began to write his famous poetry.

Fatima Adam then read some of Rumi’s Poetry, after each poem Karen Silverwood played the Violin and her husband the Guitar. Jewish and Christian Music, which depicted the essence of the Poetry, this theme continued throughout the evening.

“The religion of the heart is not a stark monument of stone; Lovers of God have no religion save yearning for me alone.”

We then had a talk by Addur Rashid Siddiqi, Vice Chairman of the Islamic Foundation. He read some of Rumi’ s Poems in Persian and in English, giving us the benefit of his wisdom and years of experience.

How similar we are in our thinking, and how enriched we all felt after spending an Evening with God through Poetry and Music!

We thank everyone who came, we were pleased to welcome so many new faces. We also thank our Musicians and Readers and the Islamic Foundation for providing both hospitality and food.

Our next meeting will be on September 12th when we propose to join English Heritage on the Peace Pilgrimage, visiting various places of Worship. A minibus will take us from the Islamic Foundation Library at 9-00am to join the coach in Leicester, This is a most interesting tour, and we hope you will be able to join us.

For further details please ring 01530 245947.

Sheila Lammiman

Memorial Football Match

Humeyra Ceylon Izhar Sadly we say Goodbye to Humeyra who is leaving for Saudi Arabia where her husband will be working.

To say that we will miss her is an understatement, but we wish her well and look forward to her visits in the future.

We have known Humeyra for six years, she has been instrumental in bringing together Muslims and Christians, she has shown us the world of Islam by example, by arranging the Lunchtime Lectures on Art, Poetry, Literature, Music etc and by encouraging dialogue and debate. Humeyra has become part of Markfield and its people, she has shared her culture and faith as we have ours, indeed we would not have the Interfaith Group had it not been for the hard work of Humeyra.

Friendship is precious, understanding each other in this diverse Society vital and necessary.

Through Humeyra we have found all of these things and much more and we thank her for showing us that we are all one in the eyes of God and that it is possible to have a different faith yet come close together in our search for truth, unity and peace.

Humeyra may you find great happiness in your future life, you will always hold a special place in the hearts and minds of the people you have met and whose lives you have enriched, you are well loved and we truly blessed! We will meet again Inshallah!

My mother’s menu consisted of two choices: Take it or Leave it.

14

Recycling service has improved by a mile Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in the Herald Having now unbelievably (where has the time gone?) entered my 16th year as the Borough Councillor for Markfield and Stanton I was reflecting on some of the major changes that have taken place within the Council at Hinckley and some of the things that for better or worse have not changed or improved.

Looking for a positive note, I thought I would just take some time to consider one of the areas that has significantly improved; the Borough Council’s recycling service.

On election in 1995 it was noted that the Borough Council like many of its peers did not really do recycling, it was seen an an unnecessary luxury, one which was superfluous to requirements. It did have a limited service which at the time was the bottle bank collection. The bottle banks were placed in a number of locations throughout the Borough and people would bring their bottles and dispose of them. The Council had a contract with a company who would on a regular basis empty the bins and take the glass away and that was about it. The refuse collection system allowed anything and everything to be put in black bags or old metal bins and this would be collected on a weekly basis from your property (you did not even need to leave your rubbish on your front in those days, as the refuse workers would even come into your back yard to collect). This system although very convenient did not do a great deal to encourage recycling, not that much in the way of a service was provided.

Things did slowly start to change in the late 1990s with the introduction of a kerbside paper collection. This was the first time a kerbside collect had been introduced and it was carried out by a company than ran a paper mill in Cheshire so it did not cost the council much to provide. This service however

was provided only in the urban area of Hinckley and Burbage. One of the common failings at the Council which I have fought long and hard to change.

No real commitment was given to providing services like this on a borough wide basis.

The introduction of targets for recycling and the penalties imposed by the landfill tax (a tax levied on the amount of waste put into landfill) made local authorities start to respond more aggressively to increasing the recycling rate. This led to a significant change of policy at the Borough and for me it was good timing because for the four years from 1999 I served as deputy leader at the Council with responsibility for refuse and recycling.

I took this opportunity to set in stone a path to delivering a much more comprehensive recycling service although it would take many more years to develop. What was also positive, is that I was able to direct the trial of new services towards Markfield and Stanton rather than the normal practice of them starting in Hinckley. This led to the green bag collections for green waste which turned out to be a big success.

The green bags allowed householders to separate out their green waste which was then sent off for composting. This trial lasted a good few years and showed that it really could lift the percentages of waste recycled. The green waste collections were a success but they were briefly threatened with a proposal to charge a separate fee for the service which I strongly objected to. This did not happen and instead further developments were introduced including the collection of glass, tins and paper across the Borough, later including plastic. We also saw the collections of card and green waste moved from a bag into a brown bin.

The net consequences of these changes is that today the Borough Council recycles a few empty bottles short of 50% (49.8% to be precise) of its overall waste. This figure compares well with other councils and look very

good compared to the almost negligible figure that existed in 1995. Indeed the Council has been increasing its recycling rate which only a few years ago in 2004/05 was 34.5%.

What the Borough Council is now looking to do is improve the service yet again. As various contracts come to an end the Council is looking at what opportunities exist and how these can be delivered from making savings elsewhere within the budget.

The first improvement that is likely to be introduced is the collection of Tetra Pak and similar cartons which could go in the plastic collections.

A more significant change would see be the introduction of a different container to replace the current bags for plastics and paper. In its place you would see another Hessian bag like we now have for cardboard. This new Hessian bag would collect; glass, cans, mixed plastics, Tetra Pak etc. The existing yellow Hessian bag would continue for cardboard but with the addition of paper thus removing the current blue bag and box altogether. It may be that households get a choice and could ask for a blue box but this would need to be bigger than the one that is currently supplied.

The brown bin for garden waste would continue as it does now but should the required savings be delivered it will start to include the collection of food waste. This food waste would be co-mingled which will mean it is more expensive to compost but collection costs will be reduced.

The Council has carried out some customer focus work on the recycling services it provides and found that they are popular with high satisfaction ratings. This is again important because the Council needs people to recycle not simply because they feel they have not alternative but instead can also recognise the benefits. We should also put to bed the myths around the recycled produce. The Borough Council deals with the County Council and specialist companies to manage the recycled produce and as far as the

Council knows it it does not end up in landfill, indeed in today’s environment recycled goods have a price.

So it may not be perfect but the recycling service provided by the Borough has improved by a mile during the time I have been on the Council, the real challenge now is how we can keep driving it forward and how we do so in the face of significant cutbacks at the Borough.

Just a final point. I appeared before the governments planning inspector at the appeal by Jelson Homes against the Borough Council’s decision to refuse them permission to build a large housing development off the London Road. I was fortunate that the Inspector allowed me to speak following the opening remarks of both sides. I stated for the record that the developers had never sought to discuss their application with the local community, that the local community was opposed to this development, it was too big and too intrusive, it was in the open countryside, it was in the National and Charnwood Forests, there was not the proven demand and local services were already stretched. The Barrister representing Jelson appeared to mostly concentrate on the 5 year land supply issue (meaning that a 5 year supply does not currently exist). It could take as many as eight weeks before we get the verdict, so I guess we are just going to have to wait and see and, of course, hope.

ALMIGHTY DIGITAL AERIAL.SATELLITE.FREESAT.MULTIROOM.EXTRA POINTS.BT POINTS.LCD.PLASMA. PROJECTOR.HOME THEATRE SET-UP.TUNE-INS AND INSTALLATIONS. DIGITAL AERIAL

£85

INSTALLED ALL IN.

NO HIDDEN EXTRAS

01530245013 07957282677

EMAIL- ALMIGHTYAERIAL@AOL.COM

EST 15YRS OAP DISCOUNTS

Every time I’m wrong, the world makes a little less sense.

15

St Peter’s Church Spot

I write this on St Swithin’s day as yet another heavy shower, accompanied by blustery winds, sweeps across our countryside.

After the hot weather of June the gardens are refreshed - and even for some of us mere mortals the cooler temperature brings its own relief. I am not sure however that I want forty days of rain!

And relief it was, together with a refreshing cup of tea, to be cool in Church on the afternoon of Thornton’s Open Gardens. It is all the more pertinent to thank those who opened their gardens, and those who visited them, on that very hot June afternoon when £600 was raised for the three charities.

The new kitchen servery area in church came into its own - and the toilet proved its worth.

We look forward now to the Table Top sale and Coffee Morning on Saturday 7th August at the Community Centre. Following that is the annual visit of the ever popular Ratby Band on Friday 17 September followed immediately by Harvest Festival on Sunday 19th September.

Finally it is my pleasure to record with gratitude, on behalf of the PCC and the Friends, the receipt of a grant of £7,250 from the Hinckley and Bosworth Parish and Community InitiatveFund - and to our Borough Councillors Chris Boothby and Ozzy O’Shea who supported our application.

And very finally, a personal thank you from me to all those who gave so generously to my sponsored hymn play which raised £930.

Martin Foster

Midnight mums raise £14,500 for Rainbows

Almost two hundred women including two beauty queens gathered at midnight on Saturday 17th July to create magic by raising money to help care for children and young people at Rainbows Hospice.

The Miles for Midnight Walk began at Loughborough Town Hall, where the ladies limbered up with aerobics and a massage before setting off on the six mile round-trip by moonlight. A total of £14,500 was raised.

But enough about me, let’s talk about you. What do you think of me?

16 Top Local Talent Appearing

Don’t miss the Groby Club Variety Show!

A Grand Variety Show will take place on Thursday 23rd September at Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club between 8pm-11pm. All proceeds from the show will go to Cancer Research and Loros.

Royal Accolade for the Baldwin Trust The Queen’s Birthday Honours List published in the London Gazette on June 2nd 2010 announces the news that the Rothley based charity the Baldwin Trust has won the ‘Queens Award for Voluntary Service’ (The volunteers MBE).

The award is seen as the national benchmark for volunteering excellence.

The Baldwin Trust, founded in 1982 provides narrow boat day trips for the elderly, disabled, learning difficulties and other community/family groups. They have two boats “Dandelion” operating from Pillings Marina, Quorn and “St Clare” operating from Raynsway Marina, Thurmaston. Both boats are fully wheelchair accessible and have disabled toilets and fully equipped galleys. The Trust has 58 volunteers, all unpaid; who are either qualified skippers or crew.

Glenda Townsend, Secretary to the Trust said “We are thrilled and very proud that our members have been recognised in this way, without their dedicated support none of this would be possible”.

For Further information about the Trust ring Glenda on 0116 230 1731 or see the Trust’s website www.baldwintrust.org.uk

LETTER FROM CANADA My mum informed me about your magazine being viewable online.

We moved to canada last year, so thought I would drop you a line.

There will be a full night’s entertainment with local professional talent including some of Leicester’s top bands, singers, dancers, and two amazing speciality acts. There will also be a prize raffle with proceeds going to both charities. The show will be compered by me, Digg Haywood.

I am the chairman of the Leicester and Coventry branch of Equity, (the Variety artistes’ and actors’ union) and the organizer of this charity event I have been a professional entertainer myself for 40 years and appeared on many tv and radio shows.

Having lost several relatives and friends to cancer I decided some years ago to help raise funds for Loros and other cancer charities. Almost everyone has lost someone near and dear to cancer, so these charities are close to all our hearts. We have already raised a considerable amount of money at past variety show events and hope to top our previous fund raising efforts. So I would appeal to everyone to come to Groby Club and have a great night of live entertainment and help raise funds for these worthy causes.

Advanced tickets £5.00 - On the door £6.00 - Concessions/Children £2.50.

Tickets obtainable from Digg Haywood on 07801924013 or from Groby ExServicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby on 0116 2571809 Thank you all in anticipation of your support !

N.B. should anyone want advice regarding joining Equity the variety artistes’ and actors’ union and beginning a career in the entertainment business, I will be happy to give any advice or guidance after the show.

Digg Haywood

Classic Telly - from Tarquin Vandyke

Do you remember ...

Green Acres?

Green Acres was an American television series which ran for an amazing 170 halfhour episodes between 1965 and 1971.

In what was essentially

I was born and brought up in Markfield, and only moved out when myself and my husband bought our first house which was in Coalville, many years ago.

Most of my family still live there, including my parents, Jean and Tony Preston and my brothers and nieces and nephews.

It’s nice to be able to see what’s happening and going off there.

My family and my sister’s family live in Alberta in Canada - my sister has lived here for 6 years now. We will certainly be viewing the next issue,

Sharon and Lea Petcher Alberta, Canada

(The Herald website address is: www.markfieldherald.co.uk)

The Beverly Hillbillies in reverse, Oliver Wendell Douglas, a Manhattan attorney who has long desired to become a farmer, buys a rundown farm sight unseen from con man Eustice Haney.

Upon his return to New York he packs up his things and drags his socialite Hungarian wife Lisa to Hooterville. There, along with his hired hand Eb he tries to build the farm into a useful venture. In the meantime, Lisa becomes acclimatised to her surroundings and attempts to bring some form of civility to the backwoods neighbours.

Oliver tends the farm every day in suit and tie and Lisa wears elegant gowns while cooking the only meal that she knows how to make---”hots cakes”. The house itself is hilarious---the bedroom closet sliding door which flies off its runners each and every time Oliver touches it, the phone which is at the top of the telephone pole and occasionally Arnold the Pig, perhaps the smartest

inhabitant of Hooterville, regularly comes in to watch television! Classic!

My only hobby is laziness, which naturally rules out all the others.

17

Look Snappy in a Real

Nappy

Make the change from disposable to real nappies and save up to £500!

Making the change is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. NappucciNos

To find out more about real nappies, why not come along to one of our free nappuccinos. They are held at venues across the County and provide a relaxed and friendly environment to learn more about the alternative to disposables. *Terms and conditions apply.

Offers 1 and 3 available to Leicestershire County residents only.

2. FRee Real Nappy leNdiNg Kit*

To help decide which type of real nappy is for you, why not try our free lending kit? You will receive a selection of real nappies to try for 2 weeks and then simply return them to us.

3. £30 cashBacK*

Once you have decided to make the change to real nappies we can still help you by giving you £30 cashback on your real nappy purchase.

For more information or to apply contact us on 0116 305 0001 or visit www.leics.gov.uk/nappies

LET’S SEE THE BACK OF DISPOSABLES KEITH SMITH (ANSTEY) LTD 6 STADON ROAD ANSTEY LE7 7AY - SALES RENTAL & SERVICE

TEL: 0116 2362395 - sales@keithsmithltd.co.uk

FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY INDESIT IWB6123UK Washing Machine 1200rpm Spin Speed 6Kg Load Capacity 16 Progs AAB Rated Time Delay WAS £299.99 Save £40

NOW £259.99

HOTPOINT WML520P Washing Machine 1200rpm Spin Speed 6Kg Load Capacity Mini Load Quick Wash AAB Rated WAS £329.99 Save £40

NOW £289.99

HOTPOINT AQ7F29I Washing Machine 1200rpm Spin Speed 7kg Load Capacity AAB Rated 30min Quick Wash

AAB Rated FREE 3 Year Warranty

£399.99

HOOVER OPHS612 Washing Machine 1200rpm Spin Speed 6Kg Load Capacity 29min Quick Wash 14 Progs A+AB Rated Free Installation*

£279.99

ZANUSSI

BEKO

ZWG1120M

CDA539FW

Washing Machine 1200rpm Spin Speed 6kg Load Capacity AAB Rated Time Delay

Fridge Freezer 134/63 Litres Capacity Frost Free Two Glass Shelves

Quick Wash WAS £299.99 Save £40

NOW £259.99

All products are in stock and available for immediate Delivery Internet Prices With Personal Service Ask about our Price Match Promise Built-in Display Lots of other offers in-store now!

Free Installation (worth £29.99)*

Free Removal of Old Machine (worth £14.00)**

Free Removal of Packaging

*To Existing Fittings. **Excludes Refrigeration

A Energy Rated Fast Free Local Delivery

£289.99

ANSTEY

HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ CREDA ~ WHIRLPOOL ~ ZANUSSI ~ INDESIT ~ BELLING ~ HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ ELECTROLUX

HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ CREDA ~ WHIRLPOOL ~ ZANUSSI ~ INDESIT ~ BELLING ~ HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ ELECTROLUX ~

WASHING MACHINES ~ FRIDGE FREEZERS ~ FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ~ TUMBLE DRYERS ~ COOKERS ~ OVENS ~

WASHING MACHINES ~ FRIDGE FREEZERS ~ FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ~ TUMBLE DRYERS ~ COOKERS ~ OVENS ~

I’ve had all the electric leads in my house shortened to save on electricity.

18

Extracts from Markfield Parish Council Minutes The following items were among the matters discussed at the 7th JUNE 2010 meeting of Markfield Parish Council.

Police Report: May Figures: 2 Burglary (Dwellings): Link Rise and London Road 2 Burglary (Others): Hill Lane and Halls Farm 3 Thefts From; The Hawthorns, Chitterman Way and Main Street.

Parish Council website: - Website address:-www.markfieldparish-council.org.uk. The site construction would be completed shortly.

Local History Group – Proposal to erect a War Memorial in Markfield: - Mr Gannon stated that the last meeting was very well attended and 2 members would be attending a seminar to help the project to progress.

Soap Box Derby: - The event had been cancelled due to objections from the residents of Ashby Road.

British Cycling – BMX Race Track – unused land at Jubilee Playing Fields; - He stated that when the plans and funding were formalised details would be presented to the Parish Council

and the Jubilee Playing Fields Committee for approval. Progress was still being made with funding applications.

Vehicle Activated Sign (VAS) – Partnership with Thornton and Bagworth: - Mr Sprason stated that the County Council were waiting for the sign to arrive.

South Charnwood 883 Bus Service subsidy cut: - Mr Sprason stated that a petition would be presented to the council, signed by over 1500 local residents opposing the County Council’s cut in the school transport budget from Markfield to South Charnwood High School. Mr Sprason stated that the petition also demanded a new safety assessment be undertaken of the County Council’s criteria used for free transportation to schools.

Spending Review: - Mr Sprason stated that due to the current financial crisis the County Council had been asked to make an additional £50 million spending cuts over the next 4 years; £30 million in Adult social care services and £20 million in waste reduction and IT services.

District Councils’ Core Strategy Documents: - Mr Sprason stated that many District

Councils were abandoning the adoption of their controversial Local Development Framework Documents and Regional Housing Strategies; but as Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council had already adopted theirs this would not be possible.

Miners’ Welfare Institute: - Mr Lay had put forward the Parish Council’s proposal to name the development “Memorial Cottages”.

Relocation of Council Offices: - Mr Lay stated that the Borough Council had previously decided that it would be more cost effective to move staff to the Atkins building in Hinckley, rather than refurbish and repair the existing Argents Mead council building. However Executive members of the Borough Council were now considering moving to the former Fludes factory on Hawley Road in Hinckley.

Interested in Alternative & Holistic Talks?

Find Out What’s Taking Place Locally Visit the website at: www.leicesterlectures.co.uk

Does that screwdriver really belong to Philip?

Time Warp

Travel back to the 1960s at The Old Thatch Janet Lowe - landlady at The Old Thatched Inn in Stanton - has dropped us a line to say that she’s holding a 60’s Night on 7th August. An evening of entertainment in the 1960sstyle has been arranged, and a 1960s menu will be available. 1960s dress is optional!

Janet also asked us to mention that Lisa - formerly of The Tipsy Fisherman - is now at the Old Thatch, serving her delicious culinary delights from the carvery on Tues-Fri lunchtimes between 12 noon and 2pm. This includes Janet’s Senior Citizen Special of 2 courses for £5.

19

An Invitation to Try Our New Facilities!

Readers of “The Herald” will recall the amusing letter from Uncle Eustace, of the Rectory of St. James the Least, to his nephew, Darren, entitled, “On the Nonsense of a Lavatory at Church”.

My purpose in writing this letter is to invite Uncle Eustace, and Darren, to view the newly-installed facilities at St. Peter’s Church in Thornton. They will be, as other have been, suitable impressed.

The installation of facilities such as these in an ancient and listed building necessitates a great deal of sympathetic planning – and, of course, Diocesan advice - as well as raising the inevitable need for fund-raising.

That the project has been worthwhile is indisputable. The clean lines of the kitchen servery area, and, indeed, the whole construction, made of light oak and with decorative templates which match the architecture of the building, are a delight to the eye.

It has been my privilege as Churchwarden during this time to thank everyone who has in any way contributed to this commendable achievement.

The facilites were dedicated on Sunday, 27th June 2010– appropriately the nearest Sunday to St. Peter’s Day – by the Reverend Simon Nicholls.

They were put to good use that same afternoon as part of the Friends of St Peter’s Open Gardens event.

Now we move into the future. Work on the pointing of the stonework is imminent, as is the replacement of lead stolen from the roof. After that, improvement to the church heating is on the agenda.

Martin Foster

I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car with a flat tyre being pushed by two old men.

20

Stanton Bulletin From Sally Wilkins Saturday 24th April saw the annual May Queen competition - boys were invited to enter for a king but no takers. The girls entered and it was well supported.

It was difficult to judge but with the help of last year’s May Queen, Helen Parr, Vicar Simon Nicholls & wife Rosemary made their decision. Stanton May Queen 2010 is Isabelle Drexler, her attendants were Casey Henshaw & Lily Marie Gibbins (pictured above).

Thank you to all entrants. We had live music thanks to Patience Hough and James, and everyone enjoyed their performance. There was also a licensed bar & BBQ. On Saturday May 2nd we held Stanton’s third scarecrow competition.

We saw 28 entries and everyone that entered had made a lot of effort. St Mary’s Church let us sell refreshments and programmes of entrants. Judges were Councillors Mr & Mrs Sprason. It was felt that with each year the entries have just got better, and this year’s theme was Film Characters. We had Poirot, Superman, OO7, Peter Pan, Mad Hatter, and Harry Potter. The Finalists were The Incredibles, R2D2, and “Up” with the Winner being made by Chloe & Ben Hauton. Well Done!

Any ideas for next years competition would be very welcome.

Sunday 3rd of May, we started early that morning, setting up stalls, putting up gazebos and securing everything possible as although it was dry it was bitterly cold. Isabelle did very well not to look as frozen as she felt as she led the procession with her attendants from the Youth Club to then cut the ribbon at the recky gate, where she announced the fete open. We had a small group of fancy dress entrants, which was kindly judged by Chloe Hauton and Kate Davies. Madgid Disu won for his brilliant spider costume. We had a great afternoon despite the weather. Music was DJ’d

by Gavin Broughton and friend who did a brilliant job. All prizes were collected from the raffle. We did pack up an hour early due to the cold setting in but despite this we raised a total of £1,009.98. So a huge thank you to all of you who attended our events, without your support we wouldn’t put these events on.

Thank you to all those of you who gave your time to help and contribute to the day, you know who you are, without you we couldn’t put these events on and Thank you to the QGJ committee members, see you at our next meeting.

We aim to put on a talent competition towards the end of the year so get practising your acts, and we will deliver details via a flyer soon.

We will be holding our annual christmas “Recycled Teenagers Party” so if you’re 65 or over, a date for your diary is 11th December, You will receive an invite, anyone who doesn’t by the beginning of December, please contact Sally, Tel: 242847

I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car with a flat tyre being pushed by two old men.

21

Invitation to meet some of Redgate’s cats and dogs in need of homes All of my own cats at home are ‘Redgate Cats’ and I have never regretted adopting any of them: they are all full of intelligence (rather too much sometimes) and a zest for life and they settle quickly into their new surroundings.

Redgate cats are well known for being adaptable! No matter what anyone tells you, cats are as capable of faithfulness as any dog. People who have never shared their home with a cat really don’t know what good company, warmth and friendship they are missing. Of course when cats are kept in pens in any rescue centre they cannot be themselves – they have limited space and are (by necessity) surrounded by other cats they may not have chosen to mix with! Each one needs someone like you to come to choose them, take them home and let them blossom into their true personalities in their new territory.

As usual in late spring/early summer, there was a rapid increase in the number of cats brought in and as at 1st July there were 35 cats and kittens.

The pens are full.

Now meet just a few of our adult inmates (all between 7 - 10 years old) Taz, Cracker, Jasper, Rosie, Cara, Lucky, Tabby & Trixie. Please don’t overlook adult cats - with the good pet foods and excellent veterinary care we have these days, cats now usually live to 15 years or more. Or maybe you’d like an older ‘companion cat’ to snooze with, whilst watching Midsomer Murders with a cup of tea!

P APERWORKS P RINT..............

FOR

ALL types of business and personal print work undertaken at a competitive price.

P A P E R W O R K S İ 01530 249698 Jim or Vicky @

.. .. .. .. .. .. .

paperworksleics@btinternet.com www.paperworksleicester.com

Shake paws with a dog But, if you remain resolutely a “Dog Person”, then take a look at the photos below and come to visit them and shake paws. As at 1st July there are about 9 dogs here – of all sizes looking for new homes. Make sure to visit Buster, Jake, Tess and Theo and their pals (all approx 2 – 4 years old, except Buster who is 8). Kennel staff say that Buster would make a really lovely companion and he bonds well with people when he gets to know them. He really enjoys human company and walks well on the lead. All the dogs are playful, love walks and would thrive on special attention.

Come and accompany them on a walk to find out more! If you need a regular excuse to walk in the country air and get fit – this is your chance to find a keep-fit companion who will never let you down!

Re-homing procedure The re-homing procedure for cats and dogs is straightforward – for more information about it please ring the sanctuary, any day 10:00 a.m. – 3:30p.m. on 01530 243 925 and ask to speak to Lynn or Hayley.

The Redgate website is: www. redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk

PLEASE BRING US YOUR SHREDDED PAPER FROM THE OFFICE – IT IS IDEAL FOR DOG BEDS! We are located on Shaw Lane, by the side of the A511; between Markfield and Ellistown

Jo Leadbetter My sister’s expecting a baby, and I don’t know if I’m going to be an uncle or an aunt.

22

ENJOY DRUM LESSONS • Full Ebony/Gold Plated Premier Signia Kit Provided • All Grades (Trinity Guildhall-Rock School)/All Ages/All Areas • • • •

Rock/Pop/Jazz/Orchestral Qualified Professional Drummer Home Visits If Required.

Beginners (& Advanced) Welcome • KIT(S) BOUGHT & SOLD

SchoolBAG makes progress with Leicestershire County Council On 9th June, Leicestershire County Council’s scrutiny commission accepted our petition to have the assessment criteria for school routes reviewed.

The petition was presented by David Sprason and our Vice Chairman, Joel Evans, presented our case to a panel of 12 committee members. The meeting was attended by more than 50 local campaign supporters - possibly the largest turnout in support of a petition the commission had ever seen. Thank you to all who made the effort to attend, it definitely made an impact.

A Friendly & Effective 1-2-1 Learning Experience

The 12 scrutiny commission members debated our petition and varied considerably in their level of support for our cause. To all present, it was disappointingly noted that cost and not child safety was at the top of certain people’s agenda. Eventually, one of the Commission members moved to put the issue of assessment criteria up for review and this motion was carried.

What does this mean to us?

This motion means that the assessment criteria used by LCC to judge the suitability of a walking route used for school travel will now be reviewed and if found to be inadequate, changed. This is a significant win but does not yet guarantee Markfield and Field Head school children safe school travel by bus.

If the criteria used to assess routes is changed and our own route reassessed using these revised criteria, it is possible that our

concerns over pathway width, street lighting, national speed limits, crossing points and motorway bridges may be enough to prove once and for all that our route is not a safe walking route. If this happens, we will be entitled to free school transport. Alternatively, the Council may decide to just fix the route to make it safer to walk.

So what now?

Well it’s going to go a little quiet during the next two or three months while the Council moves things forward. This will not be a short process. We have asked for a swift resolution to this matter but, put simply, we have no means of ensuring this is resolved for the start of the September school year.

We are requesting that the current school bus facility with Roberts be extended until this matter is resolved but to date have had no firm decision on this. We will update the website and Facebook page once we have any news to report or a decision on the Roberts bus extension so please use these facilities to keep updated during the summer holidays.

But then!!

Leicestershire County Council decides that following further consultation, 5 routes (Kirby Muxloe to Groby Community College, Huncote to Brockington, Saddington to Fleckney, Whetstone to Countesthorpe and finally – Hathern to Loughborough that

have historically benefited from free transport (albeit outside of current policy) have had their free transport re-instated – Why, you may ask?

Historically did our route not benefit from a subsidy? Why did the Scrutiny Commission decide not to continue with our subsidy on the grounds of costs?

The appointed chair of the panel set up to review the assessment criteria for safe walking routes to school - Blake Payne, alongside the Leader of the Council David Parsons have secured free transport for their affected routes . What happened to our elected cabinet member? Where is our subsidy or free bus? Does this mean the 2,000 signatures on your petition meant nothing? Only you can be the judge of that!

The committee would ask that you post your thoughts on our Facebook Group, drop a note with your views into our email address or write to your local County Councillor expressing your true feelings.

The Website is: http://www. keep-markfield-kids-safe. co.cc/ Our FaceBook group is called: ‘Keep Markfield Kids Safe’ Email us at schoolbag@ btinternet.com

People don’t grow up; they just learn how to act in public.

23

Herald Film Reviews from Tom Flowitt

Inception (12A)

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio and Ellen Page 148 minutes Leonardo DiCaprio leads a group of individuals who are able to infiltrate a person’s mind through their dreams, without their knowledge. Their skills are utilised to steal ideas from the individual but after a job goes wrong, the team must use their skills to insert an idea into a powerful businessman’s mind in order save themselves.

At times the story becomes confusing but this never detracts from the entertainment.

The film is fast paced, tense and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Inception will keep you thinking days after watching it, particularly the finale.

Christopher Nolan, both writer and director, is fast becoming the defining figure in film this generation. Through Inception he has created something truly original with touches of genius.

Verdict: One of the best films you will see this year, if not THE best. You may need to see it twice to fully understand it, but you will be more than willing to do so.

iiiii

Toy Story 3 (U)

Starring: Tom Hanks and Tim Allen 108 minutes Toy Story 3 follows Woody, Buzz and friends on their last on-screen adventure.

Their owner Andy has grown up and is heading off to college leaving the toys to find themselves a new home or face being thrown out.

The success of the Toy Story franchise has always been in creating films that the entire family can enjoy and this has continued the trend. The third instalment has a story and an atmosphere that you just don’t find in other animated films.

The result has the sophistication of a film aimed solely at adults.

The storytelling is great, despite a lull in the middle, but it recovers for the finale. Once again3D is not used to its full potential and is frankly unnecessary in the film.

Verdict: A fitting ending that the trilogy deserved. Toy Story 3 is a film the whole family can enjoy.

iiii

Whitwick U3A is going from strength to strength!

The Whitwick & District U3A had a very interesting and informative talk by David Bell who was speaking about Murders in Leicestershire and Rutland. The next meeting is on Friday 20 August 2010 at 2pm.

We meet at the St David’s Church Hall, Broomleys Road at 2.00 pm on the third Friday of the month. and welcome new visitors and members. Please come along and enjoy an interesting and social two hours and find out more about joining our varied interest groups.

For more information telephone Liz Thomas on 01530 223841 or visit our website at www.whitwicku3a.org.uk

The truth is a precious commodity. That’s why I use it so sparingly.

24

BOOKSPOT

The Genius Gene By Howard Birnberg Einstein, Newton, Da Vinci. The names are synonymous with genius; however, is genius nurtured or does nature provide it?

IDC Home Maintenance Painter and Decorator Full interior and exterior painting service for your home also wallpaper hanging, tiling and laminate floor fitting.

For a free estimate please call Ian on:

01530 245461 or 07885 541428 NO JOB TOO SMALL

Free swimming will continue during holidays FREE swimming for people aged 60 and over and young people 16 and under will end in Hinckley on Friday 3 September.

The announcement follows the government’s decision to end its funding to local authorities to support free swimming as part of the cuts it is making to public spending.

Free swimming was made possible by the grant received from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Without this grant the Borough Council does not have the resources to continue to support the initiative.

However, because the council recognises the benefits of this scheme, it will maintain it throughout the busy summer holiday period. Charges will be reinstated at the end of the summer holidays on Saturday 4 September.

Together with Hinckley Leisure Centre operators SLM, the council will then reinstate the offer of free swimming sessions for those aged 60 and above from September, which was already provided before the introduction of the government scheme in 2009.

The following free swim session times have been agreed with SLM: • Tuesdays 2.30 - 4.00pm • Fridays 9.00 -10.00am • Sundays 4.00 - 5.30pm Residents aged 60 and above from Hinckley and Bosworth Borough will also be able to swim for free, at any public swimming times, in any of the swimming pools operated by Leicester City Council providing they have a Hinckley Leisure Centre ‘Everyone Active’ card.

The pools include:

• New Parks Leisure Centre • Braunstone Leisure Centre.

• Spence Street Sports Centre • Aylestone Leisure Centre • Cossington Street Sports Centre • Evington Leisure Centre • Leicester Leys Leisure Centre

In the fictional scientific thriller, The Genius Gene, young geneticist Catherine Fox has the surprising answer. She has discovered a source of genius in our genes. Unfortunately, her former mentor and spurned lover, Nobel Prize-winning geneticist, Stephen Yates would do anything to obtain her confidential research.

Backed by greedy pharmaceutical companies, Yates has become corrupt and he wants to engineer the genius gene into the unborn children of wealthy parents.

The time is the mid-21st century and Stephen has established clinics to design the genome of children according to their parents’ preferences.

Catherine calls these offspring ‘Frankenstein children’ and she fears the creation of a master race. Her research may make this possible and she struggles to prevent Yates from learning the workings of the genius gene.

Unknown to Catherine, there are other secrets to protect.

• AMAZON price: £15.29 Hardback

I Promise By Carol Lynn Green A classic roller-coaster of a romantic novel that begins when a mysterious stranger turns up at a party…

When Carrie – a middle-aged single mother – collapses at her son Toby’s engagement party – her friends and family rally round. But what could have caused her fall? The heat? The drink? The occasion?

Only Carrie knows the answer. It was the eyes. When the tall, handsome Professor Grant walked in the room, and flashed those piercing eyes at her, she was gone. Everything – logic, reason, history – told her it couldn’t be, but instinct, well that was another matter...

Jack – the one true love of her life and father of her son – had died 24 years previously. In mysterious and sudden circumstances, granted, but dead – fact! And Carrie had spent the ensuing decades coming to terms with that reality.

So who was this enigmatic stranger and why did that single look convince her – deep down – that Jack’s story was anything but dead and buried?

This roller-coaster of a romantic novel combines mystery, intrigue, adventure and reconciliation, all wrapped up in a classic tale of everlasting love...

• AMAZON price: £12.59 Hardback

Think Of A Number By John Verdon With a clever premise, and beautifully observed characters, this riveting thriller plays on our deepest fears; portraying a killer who appears to be able to see right into people’s minds.

Think of a number, any number – and visit www. penguin.co.uk/thinkofanumber where the killer will read your mind…

It begins with a letter…The letter contains a request – think of a number, any number – and a sealed envelope. Inside the envelope is that number.

When Dave Gurney, retired NYPD homicide detective, is contacted by an old college acquaintance about some startling letters he’s been receiving, it is at first little more than a diverting but sinister puzzle. Until the acquaintance is brutally killed in seemingly impossible circumstances.

Suddenly Gurney finds himself in the middle of a murder investigation that makes no sense. The killer seems to have known his victim intimately. How else was he able to predict his victim’s thoughts, even his actions? How did he know his darkest secrets?

• AMAZON price: £4.89

The Rings of Saturn are composed entirely of lost airline luggage.

25 Markfield Local History Group

Guided Walk around the village is enjoyable A very enjoyable guided walk led by Barrie Gannon was Markfield Local History Group’s June activity.

We were lucky to get a fine evening as the day had been wet and the thought of plodding round the village in the rain was not attractive!

However the rain passed, the footpaths and pavements dried up and the sun even shone at times. Views from the view point were excellent and also from the Altar Stones. The group numbered about 16 made up mostly of our new members with one or two of the general public from out of the village. Lots of questions were asked and answered, to the best of Barrie’s ability, and we also gained some information from members of the group. At the end of the walk Barrie was given an album put together by a resident of the village but he was unable to find out who this lady was as the gentleman handed it over and disappeared. If anyone has any information about this we’d be grateful to receive it so that we can write a letter of thanks. The album contains many newspaper clippings and photographs plus some interesting anecdotes and comments made by local characters.

Hopefully we will be able to trace its origins and will have it on view at one of our events.

Since my last piece Laurence Lock and others have been working hard on the War Memorial project and that is progressing well. Two ladies have begun to transcribe the headstones in the cemetery, a project begun some years ago but not completed due to our then falling membership and Margaret Bowler has begun to archive our material which will make research much easier and will hopefully preserve what we have so far. We are hoping to have a place to store this material so that it is accessible to more people. If you have any photographs or documents you think might be of interest to the group do let us know. We can scan or copy them and let you have the originals back if you wish.

Coming up soon

POLICE Message From Markfield’s Beat Officer PC 4338 Sadie Harlock I would like to offer a warm hello from myself and introduce myself as the new Beat Officer for Markfield.

I have taken over from PC Nike Diaper who has gone to new pastures. I have been in post now since February and I am thoroughly enjoying it. It is a complete change to what I was doing before.

We have a small room at Markfield Community Centre, where we can now work from and this has been up and running for a few months, so please feel free to pop in. However if no Police are available and you have an incident to report, please phone through the normal channels of 0116 222 2222, and not leave messages for the Community Centre Staff.

The weather has been great and unfortunately it is a prime time for burglars. Please close all windows when you are out, and at night, as this is when they will strike. They see an open window and it doesn’t matter how small, and they will get in.

If you have any concerns that you would like to make us aware of, please contact myself PC 4338 Sadie Harlock or any of the other officers that cover Beat 30. We will be glad to try and help you. It is important you tell us about problems in the village in order for us to be able to take positive action and make sure that Markfield remains the wonderful village it is.

PC 4338 Sadie Harlock PBO Markfield Beat 30

There will be another guided walk led this time by Pete Johnson on Tuesday, August 10th starting from the Parish Church at 7pm. This will be a similar walk to Barrie’s with some variation for those who attended the June walk. Do come along and bring a friend, it is open to all.

We will meet at the Methodist Church on Tuesday, 14th Sept, 7.30pm where the speaker will be Laurence Lock. Laurence will be updating us on the research he has done so far on our Markfield War Memorial Project.

We then have Liz Blood, Heritage Officer for the Leicestershire War Memorial Project, booked to speak on Tuesday, 12th October, 7.30pm.

Other meetings for the Autumn will include a social event in December to get us into the mood for Christmas and a possible visit to Ratby Local History Group.

Do come along to any of these events and meet us, we welcome new members whether new village residents or ‘old Markfield’. For further information contact Barrie Gannon on 242318, Fran Johnson on 243350 or Maureen Browning on 244242.

Smash that piano!

Bricklayer’s Arms Fun Day ThIS YEAR’S Fun Day at The Bricklayer’s Arms in Thornton takes place on Saturday 14th August.

There will be lots of stalls, a barbecue, bouncy castle, Sumo wrestling, face painting, raffle and a disco.

The ‘Upper’ Villagers will also be taking on the ‘Downer’ Villagers in Piano Smashing, Tug of War and 5-a-side Football.

It promises to be a fantastic event, and the fun starts at 1pm at the Bricklayer’s Arms, Main Street, Thornton.

All proceeds go to this year’s chosen charity - Thornton Primary School.

I’m a bitter, cynical spiteful man. Please don’t take that joy away from me.

26

Bradgate Twinning News From Mike Brewer

Following last year’s 30th Anniversary celebrations, things are back to normal. That means busy and fun.

As usual, we visited our French friends at the end of May and it is pleasing to report that for some of our new members it was their first twinning experience and they enjoyed it. A trip to Le Havre was included in the weekend’s programme.

The last Saturday in June saw us taking on Glenfield Twinning Association at our annual pétanque challenge match. The weather was kind, so the full number of games took place, followed by some very tasty refreshments. We seemed to be on a run, having won the previous four matches. We won again. This is not braggadocio, just a matter of report.

On the 18th July we had a Garden Party in the back garden of one of our members in Newtown Linford. The emphasis was on eating, drinking and socialising. But those of a competitive bent played pétanque (skilfully of course), or were introduced to the esoteric challenges of croquet, with its unique opportunities to let off steam. Again, the rain held off.

August will be quiet. In September we will as usual be taking part in the Anstey Gala, providing tea, coffee, drinks, cobs and cakes from our café under canvas. If the weather is kind yet again, the crowds will seethe and our funds will flourish, but we’ll be exhausted.

Finally, some exciting news. On Saturday, 9th October the No. 1 Sir Cliff Lookalike, Will Chandler, will be performing for us at Newtown Linford Village Hall.

Tickets are £10 or £7.50 for accompanied children (includes supper), irrespective of what the weather is like. For further information and booking contact Anne on 0116 2213786.

Always keep several get well cards on the mantel. If unexpected guests arrive, they’ll think you’ve been sick and unable to clean.

27 THE NATIONAL FOREST WOOD FAIR:

A Great Day Out At The End Of The Summer If you’re looking for a great day out as the perfect end to the summer holidays, get along to the National Forest Wood Fair at Beacon Hill Country Park, Leicestershire, on August Bank Holiday Monday (30 August).

Now in its sixth year, the Fair will be bigger than ever, with more car parking and over 100 exhibitors and demonstrators.

Don’t miss the lumberjack displays by the New Forest and South East Axemen. They went down a storm last year, with log chop races and board climbs – they even invited members of the crowd to join in, with guys and girls hauling at either end of a cross cut saw.

Hear the throttles of the chainsaw carving, as skilled craftsmen buzz and feather massive chunks of timber into works of art, some of which will feature in the charity auction for Tree Aid at the end of the day.

New for this year is the ‘log to leg’ race! It’ll be ready, steady, go in Bodgers’ Corner, as half a dozen pole lathe turners race to turn a log into a leg in the shortest time possible. The shavings will be flying and the pole lathes pumping!

One of the most popular attractions at the National Forest Wood Fair is the horse logging, and this year the team will be joined by Bruno, an Ardennes horse from Warwickshire, who has recently been hauling timber in Jackson’s Bank in The National Forest.

Visitors can also find out how to make a coracle, see willow weaving, woodcarving and pyrography. Kids can have a go at the climbing wall, eco art and other ranger led activities.

A new Park & Ride service will operate this year, enabling visitors to leave their cars at County Hall, Glenfield, Leicester, and travel by bus – free of charge – to the Fair. The service will run from 9.30am-6pm.

The National Forest Wood Fair is organised jointly by the National Forest Company and Leicestershire County Council and is supported by emda.

It is held at Beacon Hill Country Park and will run from 10am – 5pm on Bank Holiday Monday 30 August. Entry costs adults £7, concessions £4 and a family ticket £15 (for two adults and three children).For further information see www.leics.gov.uk/woodfair or www.nationalforest.org

What did the Romans ever do for Leicestershire?

For details contact srogers@wea.org.uk or phone 01509 268636.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating story of what our ancestors got up to 2,000 years ago!

• Bagworth Free Family Disco

Bagworth Community Centre, Friday, 10th September at 7.30pm, for young people aged 10 to 16. Just come along. Organised activities run by the churches in Bagworth.

There have been fewer complaints about travellers and speedier action to move on problem groups, since a single Travellers’ unit was set up a year ago. Until last year, Leicestershire and Leicester faced frequent problems with unauthorised Travellers’ camps, leading to public complaints and clean-up costs. Now, Traveller groups that cause problems are dealt with as a priority, and others that abide by a new code of conduct are tolerated for a short period.

The county, city and district councils, the police and the NHS have set up a single Travellers’ unit, to tackle issues surrounding unauthorised encampments. Over the last year, it has: • Reduced the time taken to move camps that breach the code of conduct, to fewer than 10 days, on average • Built up a data-base of families that cause problems, so they could be identified and moved on more quickly • Advised Travellers on acceptable behaviour • Dissuaded Travellers from camping on parks and car parks and urged them to keep to groups of six caravans or fewer • Reduced clean-up costs from around £80,000 per year to £10,000 per year across Leicester and Leicestershire.

The team has dealt with around 100 camps in Leicestershire and Leicester over the last year but very few caused problems or sparked newspaper stories.

Independent Family-Run Funeral Directors

We take care of every detail, advise and help you every step of the way.

• •

Friday 3rd September at 7.30pm at the Working Men’s Club (organised

by Holy Rood Church in conjunction with the WMC)

• Big Wave Youth Club

A scheme to tackle unauthorised Travellers’ camps more effectively has been hailed a success.

Anstey & District Funeral Service

You can find out the answer by enrolling on the WEA course starting at Groby Village Hall on Thursday 23rd September, 10-11.30 for 10 weeks.

Two exciting Bagworth events for your diary!

Success for new Travellers’ unit

• • • •

Traditional hearse & fleet Horse drawn carriages, motorcycle hearse & alternatives available Memorial showroom Extensive car parking Private catering suite Private chapels of rest Funeral arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home if preferred

0116 234 0548 Talbott House, Leicester Road, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7AT

www.ansteyfunerals.com

Youth would be an ideal state if it came a little later in life.

28 Friendship Force of Leicestershire

Japanese visitors enjoy a few Leicestershire experiences A group of Japanese people recently visited the UK to stay with members of the Friendship Force of Leicestershire.

As we were invited to the Japanese tea ceremony when we made a visit to Japan, we thought that we would introduce them to our English afternoon tea. The weather was kind to us and we were actually able to sit in the garden.

The programme for our Japanese visitors included a skittles evening at a local pub, a visit to the livestock and farmers market at Melton Mowbray, a sunny afternoon stroll at Foxton Locks and a walk through our beautiful Bradgate Park. The highlight of their visit was to a recently unveiled Memorial to Peace at Coventry Cathedral. This was a very fitting visit as the group was the Friendship Force of Hiroshima, Japan.

Pamela Sutton

Cross Hills Baptist Church News Serving Thornton & Bagworth plus the surrounding area

Bring and Share Lunch Sunday 25th July

Sunday School Anniversary Sunday 20th June The Sunday Club children, with the help of their leaders, presented “I Am Special” at the Morning Service and although they were small in number, their effort was great and much appreciated by the congregation who were encouraged to join in with some of the children’s Christian songs. The children were then presented with their annual Sunday Club “treat” (vouchers for outings to the Snowdome or Twinlakes, etc) for their attendance at the Sunday Club throughout the year and their participation in the Anniversary service.

As there was no 5pm Anniversary service this year a full 2 course Sunday Lunch and coffee was served in the hall for the church fellowship, friends and visitors.

There was fun and friendship, with a quiz for the grownups and party games for the children (and the “young at heart”) and everyone really enjoyed their time together.

Bear Hunt Friday 23rd July and Saturday 24th July “If you go down in the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise...............”

Manor Wood, behind Cross Hills Church, was the place to hunt for bears from 1pm to 4pm on Friday and 11am to 3pm on Saturday. This was by kind permission of the landowner and The National Forest.

The children (and the adults) had a lovely time searching for the teddy bears hiding in the wood whilst enjoying a walk and exercise in the countryside. Drinks were then available in the hall at the church and there was a little gift for the children. A very successful event which is sure to be repeated in the future!

This annual event was held at Glynis & David’s home at 110 Main Street, Thornton after the Sunday service.

Everyone enjoyed the weather, the garden, plenty of lovely food from the faith buffet and the fun and friendship of our afternoon together.

The Awesome Holiday Club Are you looking for something interesting and lively for your children to do in August?

Why not bring them along to the Awesome Holiday Club at Cross Hills from Monday 16th to Wednesday 18th August from 9.30am to 11.30am (Registration from 9am each day). Suitable for children from ages 3 to 11 years they can join in with singing, crafts, games, tuck shop (a small charge), bible stories, memory verses, prayers and lots more – a fun packed and lively programme every day with our puppets, Rosie, Tommy or Maisie the Monkey helping to end the day with a song. What’s more, ITS FREE! Please note that children need to be toilet trained but, if they are not and are aged 3+ they are welcome when accompanied throughout by an adult. Similarly, under 3’s are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

For more information - see poster on page 32 - or contact Ruth Holmes on 01530 231893 or one of the numbers below.

Emmaus: The Way of Faith Emmaus: The Way of Faith is a course designed to welcome people into the Christian faith and the life of the church. Our Pastor Garry Kelly is leading this course which is being held on a Saturday morning at Cross Hills roughly every fortnight until the beginning of December. Forthcoming meetings are on August 7th & 21st, September 11th & 25th. The sessions are from 10am – 12noon (meet for coffee first at 9.45am) so please come along and find out more.

Services Details of our Services are in the Church Service Information section in this magazine if you wish to join us on any Sunday. We serve tea and coffee after our services and always make anyone who is visiting for the first time feel welcome.

Glynis Straw

Treasurer - on behalf of the Cross Hills Church family.

Contact Numbers

Pastor -Garry Kelly: 01455 457802 • Secretary - Robert Holmes: 01530 231901 Treasurer - Glynis Straw: 01530 230272 • Parish Nurse - Vera Harding: 01530 230557

Markfield Homemakers

Programme of Events The Markfield Homemakers Ladies Group meets at Markfield Congregational Church on the second Wednesday of each month, start time 8pm.

Here is our list of events planned for the rest of the year:

• Aug 11th ~Skittles ~ 7.15 for 7.30pm At the Coach & Horses • Sep 8th ~ Barbara Hewitt ~ Talk ~ History of Calke Abbey • Oct 13th ~ Ros Barber ~ Talk ~ Clicks and Misses (Gone in a moment).

• Nov 10th ~ Anne Hughes ~ Foot Reading • Dec 8th ~ Christmas Party Brenda Featherstone Tel: 01530 242173

Send us your group news!

If you run a club, community group or sports team in Markfield, Thornton, Stanton or Bagworth, and you’d like to tell readers what you’re up to, email a few words to us and we’ll give you a mention.

Email to: info@ markfieldherald. co.uk

I told my girlfriend I had a job in a bowling alley. She said ‘Tenpin?’ I said, ‘No, permanent.’

29

LIVE & LOCAL Old Thatched Inn, Stanton.

T: 01530 242460 Sat 7 Aug: Gee’N’Us (60’s Motown & Memories Disco ~ 8.30pm Start.

60’s Dress Optional)

ARRAN BRUDENELL, Tel: 0116 234 0548

The Red Lion Main Street, Markfield.

T: 01530 242936 Screen SPORT/ Darts & Pool The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield.

T: 01530 242496 Sun 29 Aug: LYNN Singing Home of the Markfield Cricket Club ’Take Your Pick’ ~ Every Fri: 7.157.45pm. “Be in it to win it!” - Ongoing Jackpot (Min £25) 50p a ticket ALL SKY SPORTS The Club, Main Street, Thornton T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members Sat 7 Aug: ALBERTS SHIRT Sat 14 Aug: MOJO HAND BAND Fri 20 Aug: CHARITY EVE:Band: A FIST FULL OF FUNK Adm: £4 ~ All Adm & Raffle to:ALZHEIMERS. Adam White is entering ‘The Great North Run’ to raise more money. 0772 5567361 Fri 27 Aug: PLUG & PLAY (T: Andy 01455 291419) Sat 28 Aug: Wirligig - musical event for Air Ambulance: lots of bands from late afternoon.

FESTIVAL WEEKEND 3,4 & 5 Sept MUSIC & BEER Fri 3 Sept: SOUL’D OUT Band Sat 4 Sept: SNATCH Band Sun 5 Sept: ACEMAN Band 3pm Fri 10 Sept: FOOTBALL Q&A:(More Details T: 01530 230134) www.myspace.com/thorntonclub

The Charnwood Arms, Bardon.

T: 01530 813644 Every MON Night:POKER TOURNAMENT FREE ~ Starts 7pm.

TRIBUTE NIGHTS (Monthly) £10 a Ticket Includes Supper Fri 27 Aug: REGGAELICIOUS New Outdoor Play Area out Back

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

As part of our aftercare service, we now offer a monthly Bereavement Aftercare & Support Group, which has been set up to provide a FREE support service, not just to our clients, but to ANY bereaved person, irrespective of their age, creed, religion and length of bereavement.

The group meets on the 1st Saturday of every month (except at Bank Holidays) in the catering suite at Anstey & District Funeral Services between 10am and 12noon.

Next dates: Sat 7th Aug, Sat 4th Sept & Sat 2nd Oct 2010

The Bull’s Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Sat 14 Aug: SHINE Sat 4 Sept: PETE LEWIS

Bagworth WMC Station Road, Bagworth T: 01530 230 205 New Members Welcome * NEW~£1 Entry to Lounge for Live Entertainment Nights.

Sat 7 Aug: ANDY STAR Sat 14 Aug: GEE’N’US Sat 21 Aug: MARTYN RUSSELL Sat 28 ETHAN DANIELS Sat 4 Sept: GLEN PAUL Sat 11 Sept: TONY LEE Sat 18 Sept: LES MALCOLM Every Wed: Tea Dance 2-4pm £1 Incl.Tea & Biscuits Last Fridays of Month: ANDY’S CHARITY QUIZ. £1.50 each.

Every Sun ~ SEQUENCE DANCING Cost:£1. Start 7.30pm (Bar Open).

ANSTEY & DISTRICT FUNERAL SERVICES

The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 TRIBUTE Nights All £2 Entry after 7pm.

Fri 6 Aug: LILY ALLEN Fri 20 Aug: ABBA Fri 3 Sept: NEIL DIAMOND/ELVIS Fri 17 Sept: THE BEATLES (See Advert Page 32) The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite – Thursdays www.bricklayersarms.net (See Advert Page 31) The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sat: 7 Aug & 21 Aug (’King of the Road’) Sundays: QUIZ Night Play Area/Beer Garden (See Advert Page 21) The Stamford Arms Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 5616.

Every SUN 3 ~ 6pm:‘GOOD TIME SUNDAY’ Sat 7 Aug: LOADED 6 (From 9pm) Sat 14 Aug: PRIVATE Function (So no public Entertainment) Sat 21 Aug: KICKING HABITS BANK HOLIDAY SUNDAY:Sun 29 Aug: FAMILY DAY Music & Entertainment from 2pm.

(Free Entry) Sat 4 Sept: STONEPARK Sat 18 Sept: SOUL’D OUT KARAOKE ~ Every Wed OPEN MIC ~Every Thurs JAZZ ~ Every Sun 3-6pm QUIZ – General Knowledge + Find the Joker ~ EVERY Sun QUIZ – Music ~ EVERY Tues

HAMLIN’S PLUMBING SERVICES All Types of Plumbing Work Undertaken No job too small Call Mick on 01530 245155 or 07813 065538 Qualified Local Plumber with Years of Experience

Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287-1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk NOTICE TO MEMBERS Great Entertainment Fri/Sat/Sun New Members Welcome The Plough Inn Burroughs Road, RATBY. T: 0116 239 2103 EVERY Tues ~ QUIZ Weekend Charity (£2 Day Entrance) RIDER & CUSTOM BIKE SHOW:Sat 14 Aug: BANDS All day 2pm Start Sun: BIKE SHOW (Camping Available) Wed 18 Aug: AMERICAN Custom & Classic Car Show Sat 4 Sept: WARLOCK (R&Roll)

My mate is in love with two school bags. He’s bi-satchel.

30

Farm Open Sunday at Little Markfield Farm raised £810 for charity

We would like to give a very big thank-you to all that helped and to all that came to make the Farm Open Day such a success.

We have raised a wonderful £810 to be split between the charities.

It makes all the hard work that we put in to the show worthwhile to see everybody enjoying themselves. Put 12th June 2011 in your diaries for next year’s Farm Open Day and we hope to see you there.

Brenda Featherstone and Family

Real nappies can save you £500 Did you know your baby could use up to 6000 disposable nappies by the time they are potty trained? That is a lot of nappies!

Have you thought about using real nappies? Even using them some of the time will help reduce the 8 million disposable nappies that are sent to landfill every day in Britain.

Real nappies can save you up to £500 over the time your baby is in nappies. Gone are the days of terry towelling, real nappies today require no boiling or folding, but are easy to use with hundreds of fun designs.

To help parents find out more, Leicestershire County Council has a number of real nappy schemes available to parents and parents to be: 1. Nappuccinos. These are informal drop-in sessions where parents can find out more about real nappies from a member of the Leicestershire Real Nappy Network.

2. A free real nappy lending kit. The kit contains different types and brands of nappies and wraps to try before you commit to buying them.

3. £30 cash back to Leicestershire residents when they purchase real nappies or real nappy accessories.

Kerry Mullins, a Leicestershire mum who uses real nappies has recently become a Leicestershire Real Nappy Network Advisor.

“I love that I’m doing my bit for the planet and love the comments I get from other Mums when they see my nappies.” When asked why she became an advisor Kerry replied “I love passing on my tips and hints to people and can’t stop talking about real nappies!”

If you are interested in becoming a Leicestershire Real Nappy Network Advisor or if you require any more information please visit www.leics.gov.uk/nappies or contact us on 0116 305 0001.

Call Now 07522 671792 BOOK NOW FOR THE SUMMER! If it’s raining on the day you can cancel your booking with no charge.

ONLY

ONLY

£65 PER DAY

12Õ x 12Õ Bouncy Castle

£50 PER DAY

Suitable for children aged 4 - 10 years

Suitable for indoor and outdoor parties 12Õ x 18Õ Bounce and Slide

Suitable for children aged 4 - 12 years

Delivered, assembled and collected from your venue

I accidentally left my electric toothbrush on all night. I’ve never seen the bathroom look so clean.

31

Borough Councillors’ Report

Planning Appeal - land off Heath Rd Bagworth

Chris Boothby & Ozzy O’Shea

This appeal was heard on the 7th July at H.B.B.C. Discussions centred around the reasons for refusal, that being Highways, Access and Visibility.

We both attended this hearing and robustly defended the decision to refuse and went on to argue the case on a number of points.

That being, • The on-site bund, along with the site as a whole , could not be assimilated into the surrounding countryside and did not have panning permission.

• The ISO container on site was being used for business purposes and no permission had been granted for that .

• That this site was contrary to policy 18 of the adopted core strategy (hbbc) • That provision had been made for the applicant and his family at Garlands Lane but this was not taken up by the applicant.

• That there is still lawful sites available to the applicant • That the applicant has consistently breached planning regulations that the

• • •

Cllr Chris Boothby Tel 0116 2388301 or 07704345637 Email Chris.boothby@hotmail.co.uk

Cllr Ozzy O’Shea Tel 0116 2394336 or 07808585825 Email ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

settled community have to adhere to.

Development in open countryside Protection of the countryside for it’s own sake.

The decision rests with the Planning Inspectorate and we should have a decision by the end of the month.

This document detailed housing allocation across the borough along with employment land and gypsy and traveller sites. Now local authorities can determine allocations based on evidence of need.

We shall be robustly defending the fact that we have an over population of traveller sites in our area.

At the Council Meeting on the 29th June, the Liberal Administration put forward a motion to separate the gypsy & traveller allocation document from the main site allocation and generic development control policy document. This would mean a

Changes to planning The new Secretary of State for Local Government and Communities, Eric Pickles MP, has abolished the Regional Spacial Strategy or RSS for short.

further 30 months of uncertaincy and not knowing what could land on our doorstep.

We challenged the leader of the Council as to when we can expect a new site allocations document and if his administration planned to put 90% of traveller sites in the northern parishes like last time.

Cllr Stuart Bray refused to answer the question leading us to believe that they don’t know what to do.

Now we have the change , we wait with bated breath as to their next move.

Parish and Communities Initiative Fund We are so pleased to announce that St. Peters Church in Thornton has received a grant of £7,250 towards kitchen and toilet facilities.

These facilities are already in place and will provide much needed help to the congregation.

Please visit and use the new additions to the church.

Please contact us for any further information or help.

Regards Chris & Ozzy

The Bricklayer’s Arms

FUN DAY!

www.bricklayersarms.net

Sat 14th Aug

213 Main Street, Thornton Tel: 01530 230808

Home-Made Pie Night Tuesday - £6.95 includes a Glass of Wine

         

Pasta & Rice Night Wednesdays - £7.95 Includes a Glass of Wine

See page 26

Traditional Sunday Lunch

2 Courses - £9 or 3 Courses - £11 With personal service to your table

Lunches & Snacks: Tues-Sun Eves (Tues-Sat): ‘A La Carte’ or Snacks • Weekend Specials A Welcoming Homely Atmosphere & Great Food!



    

I’d like to see things your way, but I’m looking in another direction.

32

AWESOME HOLIDAY find 12 TYPES OF BUTTERFLY in the Wordsearch puzzle below, and you could win yourself a nice prize.

CLUB

This month we are offering a first prize of:

A Main Course for Two plus A Bottle of House Wine at The Field Head Hotel

Monday 16th –

and a SECOND PRIZE of:

A pair of Adult Tickets to see a film at the REEL CINEMA in Loughborough

Wednesday 18th August

To go into the draw for the prizes, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - 12 types of butterfly.

These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!).

Send your entry to: FLOAT LIKE A BUTTERFLY, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 21st August 2010.

Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s brand new Panama Hat will win the Meal for Two, and the second will win the Cinema Tickets. Good luck!

Here are the 12 Butterflies you have to find: BRIMSTONE • BROWN HAIRSTREAK • CLOUDED YELLOW WordFRITILLARY Search •Puzzle HEATH LARGE COPPER • MARBLED WHITE PAINTED LADY • RED ADMIRAL • SCOTCH ARGUS SMALL SKIPPER • SPECKLED WOOD • SWALLOWTAIL

B J C D G P G M Z V S D F S H

L R N Z C I Q W B U O I E E C

B N O T J I Y Q G O W T A L S

D A L W F A J R W K I T O V T

S F Y M N O A D B H H U B R J

N H P F T H E U W F D U R E D

T C G U C L A D R E S A I P G

N T B T K X E I D H C Y M P A

R V O C E L T Y R T M W S O E

R C E I B I E H V S Z Z T C D

S P W R L L H Q C D T F O E E

S M A L L S K I P P E R N G U

J M A O L A R I M D A D E R I

Q R W Z Y D A L D E T N I A P

Cross Hills Baptist Church, Thornton Lane, Bagworth 9.30am – 11.30am (registration from 9.00am) FREE

Aged 3 – 11

(Please note that under 3’s are very welcome if accompanied by an adult.

Children also need to be toilet trained. Those that are not but are aged 3+ are still very welcome but also need to be accompanied by an adult) For more information ring Ruth Holmes 01530 231893

Y F V S W A L L O W T A I L K

Name: ...................................................................................................

 BRIMSTONE Address: ................................................................................................

BROWNHAIRSTREAK ..............................................................................................................

CLOUDEDYELLOW HEATHFRITILLARY ..............................................

Postcode: ................................................

LARGECOPPER Last month’s winners!

MARBLEDWHITE PAINTEDLADY The first correct entry drawn out of the hat last month came from: MRS.ANNIE McCLOSKEY, of Mayflower Court, Markfield. Congratulations!

REDADMIRAL Your Meal & Wine Voucher to spend at the Field Head Hotel will be sent to you in SCOTCHARGUS the next 21 days. The second correct entry drawn out came from MR.L.BELL of SMALLSKIPPER Leicester Road, Markfield. Congratulations! Your Pair of Adult Tickets to see a film at The Reel Cinema in Loughborough will be sent to you in the next 21 days.

SPECKLEDWOOD SWALLOWTAIL

I laugh in the face of danger, except if I’m involved.

33

Markfield Neighbourhood Watch Update: Alex Ritchie Great News for Bagworth and Thornton Speaking on behalf of our Markfield and Field Head Neighbourhood Watch local street coordinators can I say how delighted we were to read, in the last Herald issue, of the appointment by our neighbours of their new Development Officer, Ms Anita Beeby. Having since made contact with her and, in particular, noted her well organised and very informative local Village website presentations I am sure N.W. progress in these villages will be swift and, most importantly, practical and down to earth and I suggest anyone who wants an update on current general N.W. priorities should read her Villages’ web pages.

Membership

On the subject of Neighbourhood Watch membership can I just please remind everyone locally that, despite a recent circulation of application forms by someone “Cold Calling” on behalf of the City and County Neighbourhood Watch which would involve payment of an annual membership subscription fee, we are not part of that group. Minutes I have just received of a very recent County meeting clearly show that we are members of the Leicestershire County Neighbourhood Watch Association and our ongoing involvement and communication with local Police, if ever proof was needed, confirms that totally.

Sometimes Confusing

It can be rather confusing when, through our local County connection, correspondence appears, for example, from the Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network and also the East Midlands Neighbourhood Watch Forum as it does from time to time. Latest example is a National promotion of a “Walking Bus” system for schoolchildren which is certainly appropriate in the quoted urban area like Loughborough but, when suggested recently in this rural situation, the idea, which for obvious and well discussed reasons was regarded as impractical, went down like a lead balloon.

Weekly Updates

However, the important part for us at ground floor level is receiving the weekly updates direct from Hinckley Police Headquarters which keep us totally up to date with ongoing Crime and Safety matters. At that H.Q. they have a complete list of all our street coordinators – well over seventy of us at the last count – which means that everyone, young and old, here in Markfield and Field Head are recognised as N.W. members and the Police beat officers know who to contact in any particular area as and when required. Let me stress - there is certainly no financial cost involved in being a local member.

Congratulations

Talking of our local Police patrols I will, pause now to say publicly just how pleased we are of their latest achievements, crime prevention and detection wise. Recent criminal damage by stupid young men wielding paint brushes, metal thieves, cannabis growers and car thefts have all been detected by our officers and I, personally, have no doubt this success can be directly attributed to the expertise shown by our LPU Inspector Richard Ward in the system he has put in place for tackling such matters since his Hinckley arrival. One very pleasing aspect is that none of our local youngsters were involved. I know I harp on a bit about how well behaved lads and lasses are here in our area and how proud we are of them but I base this on my own experience of being involved, as

a spectator, for some years now at various sporting and/or school events, watching my grandchildren and, as a result, getting to know and trust their friends and team mates of the same age groups.

A Near Thing

Having said that, only the other day, I went up to watch our local cricket side play at the Altar Stones and arrived just in time to see my grandson being rushed away to the Loughborough Walk In Medical Centre.

His upper lip was torn and bruised. Surely, I thought, after all the compliments I have been paying and nice things I have been saying over the years about his friends and associates, he has not got himself involved in a punch up? He had not. The damage had been caused by a cricket ball off the handle of his bat and onto his face. Six stitches needed but luckily no broken teeth.

But, once again, it pleases me to report an example of the excellent rapport between teenagers and adult parents because, without any hesitation, our cricket club lady secretary had taken control and he was off for treatment. Thank you Mrs Andrea Bailey.

If anyone has any doubt about the good family relationships that exist in this area then I suggest they join our young players’ friends and relations watching any local cricket or soccer match. Their rapport is indeed impressive.

A Reminder – next Quarterly Meeting

One small reminder – our next Quarterly General Meeting is set for Thursday the 12th of August at the usual Congregational Church Hall venue commencing at 7pm and all of you are welcome to attend, voice your views and make suggestions on how we can improve our membership and/or performance. However, please do not propose that we should attend National Conferences or become involved in long winded Regional Action Plans because I will say it yet again, Neighbourhood Watch stands or falls by the strength of its ground floor, practical involvement where people look out for and after each other and would-be wrongdoers know for certain that if they step out of line the local police will be immediately informed and appropriate action taken.

Finally - A Communication Example

I will end now by quoting an actual example of how matters of concern are passed to each other and/or to the appropriate authorities. This was circulated recently by one our street coordinators.

Hi All, We have now received two calls from someone pretending to be from the “Telephone Preference Society” (TPS). Both times the call showed up on our phone as international.

Both times the caller was foreign. The first time (10th May) I challenged him to prove he was from the TPS. He eventually gave up as I refused to give out any information. HE then hung up. Today (24th June) a gentleman spoke to my wife and she was invited to pay £19.95 to prevent international nuisance calls. She wisely refused to be taken in by the scam. I have contacted the TPS and they have confirmed that it is a scam and they already knew about it. The TPS advised me to contact Trading Standards Office to register a complaint. The TPS also advised me to ask the scam caller to remove my number from their database if they call again.

Update – No call since received but I expect Herald readers know exactly what such caller will be told, politely, if they do.

My girlfriend told me I should be more affectionate. So I got two girlfriends.

34 Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield Sunday 8th August 10.30 am Morning Service ---- No Evening Service Sunday 15th August 10.30 am Morning Service 3.00 pm Churches Together United Service at Ulverscroft Priory Sunday 22nd August 10.30 am Morning Communion Service ---- No Evening Service Sunday 29th August 10.30 am Morning Service ---- No Evening Service Sunday 5th September 10.30 am Morning Service 3.00 pm Circuit Welcome Service at New Parks Sunday 12th September 10.30 am Harvest Thanksgiving Service 4.00 pm Afternoon Café Style Worship

St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Markfield 10:15-11.30am Sunday Club for Children in the Congregational Hall on the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays, term time All Age Service in Church on the 2nd Sunday each month.

Sunday 15th August 3.00pm Ulverscroft Service at Ulverscroft Priory Joint Benefice and Churches Together in Markfield Service Friday 20th August 8.00pm Taizé Style Service Sunday 22nd August 8.00am Holy Communion 10.30am Open Church 6.00pm Evening Service Sunday 29th August 6.00 pm Evening Service at St Michael’s Church Joint with St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak Sunday 5th September 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday 12th September 10.30am All Age Service

Church Services 6.00pm Holy Communion Friday 17th September 8.00pm Iona Style Service Sunday 19th September ‘Back to Church’ Sunday 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield Service at Trinity Methodist Church 6.00pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 12th September 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday 19th September 10.30am Harvest Service Sunday 26th September 10.30am Family Service

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth

Sunday 26th September 8.00am Holy Communion 10.30am Open Church 6.00 pm Evening Service

Please note: This service will be at Bagworth Community Centre Sunday 5th September 9.00am Holy Communion

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak

Sunday 15th August 10.30am Joint Family Service

Sunday 15th August 3.00pm Ulverscroft Service at Ulverscroft Priory

Sunday 22nd August 10.30am Holy Communion

Sunday 22nd August 6.00pm Holy Communion

Sunday 29th August 10.30am Joint Service at St Peter’s, Thornton

Sunday 29th August 6.00pm Joint Evening Service at St Michael’s Church

Sunday 5th September 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 5th September 6.00pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 12th September 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 12th September 9.15am Holy Communion (said)

Sunday 19th September 10.30am Family Harvest Service

Sunday 19th September 3.00pm Praise Service

Sunday 26th September 10.30am Holy Communion

Sunday 26th September 6.00pm Harvest Service

St Peter’s Church, Thornton

Cross Hills Baptist Church, between Bagworth & Thornton

Sunday 15th August 10.30am Joint Family Service at St Mary’s, Stanton under Bardon Sunday 22nd August 10.30am Family Service Sunday 29th August 10.30am Joint Morning Service Sunday 5th September 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 8th August 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper Sunday 15th August 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 22nd August 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 29th August 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 5th September 10.30am Morning Service 5.00pm United Praise Service Sunday 12th September 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper There is a Sunday Club in our hall for children & young people during the Morning Service. For further details, our contact list is on page...................

News from the ‘Friends of St. Peters’ Church, Thornton Since its launch in 1995 the ‘Friends’ have raised thousands of pounds to enhance St. Peters church. The latest results of our efforts are the much needed, and eagerly awaited, kitchen and toilet facilities which the congregation and visitors will now benefit from.

The committee is also pleased to announce a ‘Members Reward Voucher’ which is to be issued to members for all future fund raising events as a ‘Thank you’ for their membership.

If you are a member of St. Peters congregation or you are someone who is interested in our beautiful medieval church, perhaps you would consider becoming a member of the ‘Friends of St. Peters’.

Membership is only £2.50. per person, per annum or £5.00. per family.

Your support would be much appreciated.

Please contact ‘John’ on 01530230610 for membership info.

With our members help we are making a difference.

paddock for sale on the edge of Thornton Approx 3.47 Acre Permission for an Outbuilding/Stable Guide Price £50,000 Please contact Mr Mrs Bell

01530 249938 07903 014724 The older you get, the better you realise you were.

35

WIN THIS BOOK!

The Cat Expert

By Rebecca Watson RRP £7.99 Paperback

It is no surprise that the cat is our favourite domestic pet. Proven stress-buster, great pestcontroller, a cat given a happy, safe environment and a balanced diet will reward you with fun, comfort and years of problem-free companionship. Whether you are planning to bring home a kitten for the first time, already have a cat in the family or are caring for an elderly pet, “The Cat Expert” will show you how to: choose the right cat for you; create the ideal environment inside and/or out; ensure your cat is well fed, exercised and happy; travel with your cat; and, spot when something is wrong and how best to help.

WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK We have one copy of this book to give away as a prize. To go into the draw for this handsome and informative volume, send your answer to the following question to: CAT EXPERT COMPETITION, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or email your answer to: info@markfieldherald. co.uk. The closing date is Saturday 21st August. Remember to include your name and address.

Question: What two breeds of cat are shown below?

The first correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s Trilby after the closing date will win the prize. Good luck!

CAT A

CAT B

Look What’s On At The Palace, Ibstock 57 High Street, Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6LH • Tel: 01530 267303

~ Forthcoming Events ~ Saturday, 7th August – The Palace annual educational FAMILY FUN DAY. The theme for 2010 is ‘VICTORIAN IBSTOCK’ and ‘A DAY AT THE VICTORIAN SEA-SIDE’.

FREE ADMISSION Enjoy a day at the Victorian seaside and find out about Victorian life from 10.00am until 4.00pm. This educational family fun day is a completely free event and everyone is welcome. Make sand castles on the ‘Beach’ in the outdoor sand-pit or just relax in a deck chair. Take a ride on a pennyfarthing bicycle with ‘Magic Cycles’. Enjoy a variety of ‘end of the pier’ attractions including children’s roundabout, swing –boats and bouncy castle plus, of course, ice-cream and refreshments! See ‘What the Butler saw....?’ with an original machine.

Have your photograph taken in ‘Victorian style’. Try your hand at various Victorian arts and crafts and find out what a Zoetrope is, see one in action and discover how it works! Follow the ‘Queen Vic’ trail down the High Street and see if you can amuse Queen Victoria. An indoor exhibition of Victorian life including aspects of crime and punishment, transport, education and the Victorian household.

Friday, 13th August - Line Dance – Music by Honky Tonk Cliff. Dancing from 7.45pm – 11.00pm. Doors open at 7.00pm.

Licensed bar. Tickets: £4.00.

Saturday, 14th August – Coalville Male Voice Choir. – Coalville and District Male Voice Choir – Starts at 7.30pm. Doors open at 7.00pm. Licensed bar. Tickets: £5.00.

Saturday, 21st August – Ibstock Allotment

Advertise in this magazine!

Advert Size

Dimensions

Colour

Mono

Sixteenth Page

45mm wide x 65mm high

£20.00

£13.50

Eighth Page

95mm wide x 65mm high

£40.00

£27.00

Quarter Page

95mm wide x 132mm high

£65.00

£45.00

Half Page

194mm wide x 132mm high £120.00

£80.00

Full Page (A4)

194mm wide x 268mm high £190.00

£140.00

Reach 4,000 Local Homes • FREE Advert Design To Place Your Ad, call 01530 244069 or email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

I like you. You remind me of when I was young and stupid.

Society 15th annual open flower and vegetable show. For more details contact Mr R Whitby on 01530 260830. Schedules will be available from Ibstock Business Centre, 57 High Street, Ibstock.

Friday 27th August – Film Night – ‘The Blind-side’. This film depicts the story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American youngster from a broken home, taken in by the Touhys, a well-to-do white family who help him fulfil his potential. At the same time, Oher’s presence in the Touhys’ lives leads them to some insightful self-discoveries of their own. Living in his new environment, the teen faces a completely different set of challenges to overcome. As a football player and student, Oher works hard and, with the help of his coaches and adopted family, becomes an All-American offensive left tackle.

Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm.Tickets: Halls Electrical, High Street, Ibstock £4.00/£3.00 concessions.

Saturday, 4th September -Palace Market and Craft Fair from 10.00am until 3.00pm.

FREE ADMISSION. A large variety of interesting stalls including; Jewellery, wooden toys, hand-knitted goods, ceramics, cookies, books, pearls, bags PLUS craft supplies, farm produce, Fair-Trade and much more!

Tickets from Halls Electrical, High Street, Ibstock.

Tel: 01530 260460.

Thornton

Glenfield

Oakfield Avenue

Extended four bedroom detached family house situated within a cul de sac. With as fired central heating and double glazing this spacious family sized accommodation briefly comprises; 20ft lounge, 20ft dining room, fitted breakfast kitchen, cloakroom, conservatory, four bedrooms, bathroom, garage and garden to the rear. £235,000

Mere Cottage

Believed to be the oldest house in the village, this house has been sympathetically and lovingly restored by its current owners.

The cottage stands on a stunning landscaped plot. Four bedrooms, open-plan live in kitchen and a wealth of period features. The family sized accommodation has views over Thornton Reservoir.

£545,000

Markfield

Kirby Muxloe

Sileby

Botcheston

Cygnet Close

Barbara Avenue

Birchfield Avenue

A two bedroom modern town house situated in a cul de sac location convenient for the centre of Sileby village.

A spacious three bedroom detached bungalow situated on a mature plot in the ever popular Kirby Muxloe area. £239,950

Three bedroom semi detached house, situated in a cul-de-sac position within the popular village of Markfield close to the village centre..

£119,500

Spinney Drive

£120,950

Situated on an over 55’s development a well maintained two bedroom s/d bungalow located on the outskirts of the popular village of Botcheston, £123,500 near Markfield.

Thornton

Earl Shilton

Merrylees Road

Lyndene Close

A large four bedroom executive detached house with stunning views over Thornton Reservoir.

£285,000

Ratby

Thorpe Astley

Oakham Road

The Pinfold

Bolus Road

£2,400 PCM

Selling or Letting you will need an Energy Performance Certificate.

We can supply at £50 including VAT.

Let - More Required. Beautiful two bed semi detached property located in a quiet cul-de-sac location.

£550 PCM LET

Very well presented two double bedroom semi detached home located in Thorpe Astley.

£575 PCM

Thorpe Astley

Bradgate Heights

Thurnby Lodge

Marshall Close

Blakeshay Close

Drumcliff Road

LET - More Required. One bedroom coach house style apartment.

£450 PCM LET

Modern two bedroom, second floor flat located in a good residential location to the edge of Glenfield.

£475 PCM

Thorntree Close

A modern three bedroom detached house convenient for Glenfield hospital, the A46/ M1 link, Leicester city centre, Beaumont Leys Shopping centre £192,500 and Bradgate Park.

We are delighted to present this outstanding and secluded property sitting on a large plot.

The property has recently undergone much refurbishment to the highest quality. There are electric gates and surveillance cameras at the entrance to the property, a tree lined tarmac driveway which is large enough for several vehicles leading to £450,000 a double integral garage.‘

Halstead Keep

This beautiful property is deceptively spacious throughout, ideal for a large family and will be let on an unfurnished basis.

Bradgate Heights

LET- More Required. Refurbished to a high specification throughout is this spacious three bedroom semi detached family home.

£575 PCM LET

Ingarsby

Ingarsby Old Hall Cottage

New to the market is this spacious detached family home, benefiting from oil fired central heating & double glazing throughout.

£750 PCM