December 2010 Herald Magazine

EARLY-DECEMBER 2010

Packed with information!

Please read every page!

Work starts on Bagworth Community Centre revamp

Knitters helping the troops in Afghanistan

A GROUP of ladies from Markfield are putting their hand knitting skills to good use by making woolly hats for the British troops stationed in Afghanistan.

Community facilities in Bagworth will receive a major boost from the £500,000 extension and refurbishment of the village community centre.

The beginning of work at the centre was marked by an event held on Monday 15th November when David Sprason, Chairman of Bagworth Forward Centre Trust, got the Phase 1 of the scheme underway.

The Bagworth Community Centre has served the local area for many years but the work to be carried out will provide a much bigger facility,

David Sprason (left) and Stuart Ball start work upgraded to modern standards, to meet the needs of Bagworth and surrounding villages for meeting and activity space.

Phase 1 of the work is valued at around £200,000 and includes an extension to the rear of the building to provide a new community hall, meeting room and kitchen.

The work is being carried out by Somerfield Contractors Ltd and is due to be completed by March 2011.

Continued on page 2

Mary Meacham, Jan Thurman, Elsie Adkin and Marlene Chapman are all residents of the Mayflower Court sheltered housing scheme and began knitting the hats after receiving a request from the troops themselves.

Mary said: “We wanted to support our troops in Afghanistan and after reading a letter from them explaining how cold it gets at night and how thankful they are for a woolly hat, it made us even more determined to help”.

After receiving the first batch of

Knitting for the troops are (left to right): Mary Meacham, Jan Thurman, Elsie Adkin and Marlene Chapman. hats, via friends at a WI branch in Kent, one of the soldiers wrote to say: “The temperature out here has dropped over the last couple of months and the hats are gratefully received. We have no form of protection from the elements, so I think you will find that they will be worn, even in our sleeping bags.”

The ladies are now appealing for donations of double knit wool so they can continue making more hats for the troops.

Anyone who can help should call Chris Mason (warden) on 01530 249964.

Stanton Carols Monday 20th December 2010.

Carols Round the Village at 7pm.

Fund Raising for the Air Ambulance and the First Responders.

Come and join us or listen out.

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 15th January - Advert & Articles Needed By 4th January 2011

This issue of The Herald is being delivered over the weekend of 4th & 5th December 2010 by our team of dedicated deliverers, namely: Amy, Coral, Daisy, Matthew, Janet, Jack, Don, Sam, Maureen, John, Yvonne, Lauren, Gill, John, Helen, Jeanie, Jenny, Sarah, Susan, Thomas, Tracey, Alex, Ann, Rowan and John & Sue.

Next Issue (January) - Out on Weekend of 15th & 16th January 2011. Please send your adverts & articles before 4th January 2011.

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.

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Memorial testing starts in New Year MEMORIAL safety testing is due to start in January 2011 at Hinckley’s Ashby Road Cemetery.

Various sections will be tested and the inspection will consist of a visual check and a hand test undertaken by trained staff in accordance with the Borough Council’s Memorial Safety Policy.

In addition, memorial testing at the following closed churchyards will also take place between January and April 2011: •

Ss Simon and Judes, Earl Shilton

•

Earl Shilton Baptist Church

•

Earl Shilton United Reformed Church

•

St Michael’s Parish Church, Markfield

•

St Mary’s Church, Barwell

• St Mary’s Church, Hinckley For more information about memorial safety please contact the Borough Council’s cemetery office on 01455 255707.

Bagworth centre revamp Continued from page 1 The upgraded community centre will be complemented by a new County Council Children’s Centre which is currently under construction and due for completion alongside the community centre by December. In addition, a new children’s play area has recently been approved for Government funding and will be developed at the site by March 2011.

The community centre is managed by the Bagworth Forward Centre Trust and County Councillor David Sprason, Chairman of Trust, said: “I am delighted that work to transform the community centre is getting underway.

The scheme is a top priority for the local community and an excellent example of what can be achieved by local action and partnership working.”

Stuart Ball, Chairman of Bagworth and Thornton Parish Council said: “This scheme is great news for local groups and people and will provide a fantastic resource for the area.”

Funding for the first phase of the extension and refurbishment work has been awarded as follows; • £50,000 Bagworth and Thornton Parish Council • £64,000 Section 106 Contributions • £10,000 Bagworth Pre-school • £2,000 Community Action Hinckley and Bosworth • £70,000 Leicestershire County Council • £10,000 Vibrant Villages Grant • £660 Community Forum Participatory Budget • Bricks have also been donated by Ibstock Brick Co Ltd. Phase 2 works focus on refurbishment of the existing building including a new roof and windows, and creation of a reception and café area. This work is estimated to cost around £300,000 and fundraising is underway, led by the Bagworth Forward Centre Trust supported by Voluntary Action Hinckley and Bosworth.

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Why doesn’t the fellow who says “I’m no speech maker” let it go at that instead of giving a demonstration?

Dog attack Stanton Youth in Markfield Club needs Could people walking their dogs please keep them under control, as we had an attack on Little Markfield Farm on Monday 22nd November 2010.

Three sheep have died and one has been stitched up. The dog that attacked the sheep ripped the throat and chewed the ears off two of the sheep when they were still alive, and left them to die a slow and painful death. Another one has died since the attack because of an infection from a bite.

What has upset us more than anything is the needless suffering of the sheep.

Brenda Featherstone

Calling F. Whitbread Would F. Whitbread, who attended the Thornton Craft Fair on Saturday 13th November, please contact Iris Gleeson on 01530 230453, who has some good news for you.

volunteers

The management committee of Stanton-underBardon youth club need volunteers to help with youth club sessions, as due to County Hall cuts we have lost our qualified paid youth workers.

We are looking for volunteers interested in working with young people of all ages as we aim to start groups to cater for a varied age range.

CRB checks will be carried out.

For more information please contact me - Elaine Parmar - on 01530 244820 or email: elaineparmar@aol.com

Elaine Parmar

Christmas Event in aid of LOROS The Flying Horse Restaurant/ Pub on the A511, Little Shaw Lane, Markfield have organised a Christmas PARTY on Saturday 18th December.

‘CHERISH’ a Female Trio – will be performing live music from London Musicals. Tickets priced at £25 per person include a 4 Course Meal.

T: 01530 245 610.

Hard work never killed anyone, but why chance it?

Bulbs Still just about time to plant Tulips.

If using containers choose fairly deep ones; this to allow planting in layers, at least two, even three if possible. Plants in containers are always a ‘feature’, so the more flowers blooming together create real impact. Left over bulbs of all types are often reduced in price as the season ends. Can be a good bargain buy. Try to ensure bulbs remain firm. Very late planting may give poor results the first spring but bulbs recover well for following years.

Autumn Crocus and Colchicums

Gardening Notes with Ted

Brown of Markfield

December Miscellany clever planting of other subjects.

Foliage of all bulbs must be left to die naturally and is the scourge of tidy gardeners! Bulbs in containers can be removed to an ‘out-of-sight’ position as flowering ceases.

Julia Clements

These two, both grown from corms, are quite distinct, but remain confused to many. This is mostly because one of the common names for Colchicums is ‘Autumn Crocus’. The true Autumn Crocus is just like Spring Crocus but with a different flowering period. All Crocus are allied to the Iris family.

Colchicums, of the Lily family, have beautiful goblet shaped flowers in

shades of pink, purple & white. Two good varieties are ‘Water-Lily’ (see photo above - a double-flowered beauty, in rosy/purple) and for a white – ‘Colchicum Speciosum Album’. Both the Autumn Crocus and Colchicums are of similar small height – 3 to 7 inches – and must, of course, be planted early (in August). Usually on sale together with the forcing Hyacinths.

The two other common names for Colchicums are ‘Meadow Saffron’ and, appropriately, ‘Naked Ladies’.

The latter because flowering takes place completely without foliage.

The largish leaves appear in spring and are probably better hidden by

This doyenne of flower-arranging (and of gardening) has sadly died aged 104. Self-taught, her fame really commenced in the immediate post-war period. A prolific author and probably the best known arranger of all-time.

Brussels & Cabbage Not being a great Brussels fan, I was interested to read an article by the food writer, Rose Prince. She grew up detesting them, describing them as the bane of winter meals and the ‘down-side’ of Christmas.

Not only that, she quoted a wellknown author, who suggested, that our Brussels were an adequate reason to emigrate! All a little ‘overthe-top’, and plant breeders are always trying for improved types, particularly eliminating bitterness.

Following the introduction of some red types, another new one is now available, and named ‘FlowerSprout’! (See photo below) This is a hybrid cross between a

variety of Brussels with that of a Kale. The result is a plant with a Brussel’s type stalk but no sprout buttons. These are replaced with Cabbage-like growths of a dark green, tinted red. Experts say the flavour is very good. Marshalls, the mail-order seed firm, are listing ‘Flower-Sprout’ in their 2011 catalogue. No doubt plants will be in the supermarkets shortly.

Of all Brassicas, Cabbage is doubtless the most popular. This proved by the apparent greatly increased sales, particularly at supermarkets, but no doubt, also other retailers and greengrocers.

Our largest supermarket now offers eight distinct Cabbage varieties.

The ‘Sweet-Heart’ types are popular favourites. For patio and container-gardening generally, not to be overlooked that there are now many small growing Cabbages, suited to life in pots. These might never match the open-ground ones, but there are advantages – easier pest control and certainly no fear of Cabbage-root Fly. Thankfully cooking methods have changed – long gone are the soggy over-steamed Brassicas. Remember Victoria Wood’s fictional Aunt who started the Christmas Brussels in October? For Cabbage just the minimum boiling water (or stock) a knob of butter, seasoning, and the whole process is over within 10 minutes!

Garlic Still a time to plant Garlic outdoors.

In fact may be planted until early spring, but later plantings might be better in small pots, to be put in the ground late spring, without root disturbance. We tend to think of Garlic as well … just Garlic. There are many different Garlics both wild

varieties and many more cultivated strains. All originate in climes far warmer than ours. No surprise, therefore, that the best UK Garlic is grown on the Isle-of-Wight, where light levels are high. For gardening newcomers; never buy supermarket Garlic for self planting - always purchase that offered as seed in Garden-Centres. Bulbs are divided into individual cloves for planting an inch or so deep.

Peas Have you noticed the increased popularity of particularly, Mangetout Peas, and also Sugarsnaps? No doubt this will encourage homegardeners to plant them, either additionally to ordinary peas, or if space is limited, as an alternative.

Unlike ordinary types of Pea these two are picked young, with the Peas barely formed and the whole pod is eaten. Ordinary Peas cannot be used and eaten in this way as their pods have an inedible fibrous lining. Vegetable gardeners might like to consider that whereas frozen ‘Petit Pois’ are just about as good as fresh Peas from the garden, these relatively new Mangetouts and Sugarsnaps, if home-grown, must ‘out-do’ the supermarket ones. We have long known how good are the tender young Broad-Bean shoots (before Black-Fly arrives). Now ‘Pea-Shoots’ are an in-thing. Home gardeners can provide these, really fresh, whether from Mangetouts, Sugarsnaps, or ordinary Peas.

Some of the best Mangetouts and Sugarsnaps at a recent R.H.S trial are not available generally. Seed lists have only limited varieties at present but sure to increase greatly in a year or two.

What a wonderful autumn for Tree colour. I do not remember a better one. Some say the best since 1920.

About now is the ideal time for taking hard-wood cuttings. So easy. About 6 to 9 to 12 inch long, leafless stems, buried by half into open compost, either in pots, or open ground. Cut just below a bud and trim any soft-top. Not only deciduous shrubs but gooseberries, blackcurrants etc.

Foolproof systems don’t take into account the ingenuity of fools.

Awards for three Markfield Guides In November three Markfield Guides were presented with their Baden-Powell Challenge Awards by Peter Osborne, Chairman of Leicestershire County Council.

In a ceremony held in the council chamber, Kate Davies, Rebecca Ford and Kirsty Kate Davies, Rebecca Ford and Kirsty Watt Watt received their awards along with other Guides, watched by their families and Guiders.

The buffet reception afterwards also gave the Guides a chance to talk to the chairman about Guiding, their schools and issues that mattered to them.

The Baden-Powell Challenge is the ultimate individual achievement for a Guide. While much of unit guiding is about working in small groups, the award is for Guides who wish to stretch themselves as individuals and achieve the best they can by developing a personal action plan. It is not about reaching a set standard or being academically able.

The girls had to complete 10 challenges from topics including Diversity, Global Awareness, Healthy Lifestyles and Skills and relationships, after completing these they participate in a residential weekend where a unknown challenge is thrust upon them. The challenges presented to Kate, Rebecca and Kirsty on their weekends were to create a banner for a West Midlands Carnival, teach Brownies a dance routine and then present it to an audience, and to plan, prepare and present a buffet to some very senior Guiders!. Each of these challenges have to done in 2 days and involves managing a budget, sourcing and buying props and food etc and usually having it all done by 4pm Sunday.!

We wish all three a lot of fun the Senior Section.

Jeanie Brooks For Holistic Talks and Events: Visit: www.leicesterlectures.co.uk For Holistic UK Hotel Hosted Weekends: Visit: www.talkingbreaks.co.uk

I either want less corruption, or more chance to participate in it.

County Councillor David Sprason’s Column Markfield housing decision We have now had a response from the local government minister Eric Pickles following his challenge to the housing on London Road Markfield. The response he received is quite shocking and justifies our original objection to the Core Strategy imposed on us by the administration at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council.

The response the minister received from the inspectorate states that the adopted Core Strategy was clearly the key to this decision. During cross examination at the inquiry the local planning authority (HBBC) agreed that the latest housing data indicated that there was a need for a higher number of additional dwellings for Markfield than was identified in the Core Strategy. The site on London Road is identified in the draft Site Allocations Development Plan Document as a natural extension to the existing boundary.

It is clear that the administration and officials at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council have now agreed without consultation that Markfield requires more houses than previously agreed and that settlement boundaries and rural green fields are acceptable for development. I have already sent my response to the Chief Executive of Hinckley & Bosworth stating that despite all his reassurances that the Core Strategy would protect us from over development, this decision now proves that the opposite is true and HBBC has actually failed to protect us.

Leicestershire chosen to be a National pathfinder The coalition government has taken a close look at Leicestershire County Council by seeking how as the lowest funded authority it manages to deliver excellent services when others fail with higher budgets.

Central Government has now agreed for Leicestershire County

Council to take on the lead and a pathfinder for a number of initiatives which include a Local Economic Partnership, this will drive economic development with business leaders, Community Budgets which will bring all agencies budgets under a joint commissioning pot targeting families, a local Department of Work and Pensions initiative to drive employment and apprenticeships opportunities and the integration of Health and Social Care through the development of a Health and Wellbeing Board which will focus on prevention.

This announcement could see even greater benefits for the residents of Leicestershire as the good work around drugs and alcohol and joint commissioning with health and social care have already been recognised as good practice.

Two ways to have your say on savings plans Residents are being given two ways to have their say on how Leicestershire County Council saves more than £90 million over the next five years. The council wants people to complete an online questionnaire, or complete a paper copy in the latest edition of the council’s magazine, Leicestershire Matters.

Council Leader David Parsons said: “We have always been honest about the scale of the budget problems facing us and we want the public to help guide our difficult decisions. “The Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review has made it very clear that councils will have to play their part in reducing the public debt.”

The county council currently estimates that, as part of the Government’s drive to repair the public finances, it will have to save more than £90 million over the next five years. More than £55 million will come from efficiency measures, so that money is saved without reducing the quality of service. The remainder will have to come from service reductions.

Burns Night Dinner in support of Hospice Hope A ‘Burns Night’ Dinner is being held in aid of Hospice Hope at 8pm on Friday 21st January 2011, at the Lyric Rooms, Ashby de la Zouch.

An online questionnaire is available on www.leics.gov. uk/budgetconsultation and a paper copy is in the latest edition of Leicestershire Matters, which is being delivered to households across the county at the moment.

The survey allows people to suggest which services should make the most savings. Residents are also being asked whether they agree with the council’s proposed Council Tax freeze, or whether they would be prepared to pay an increase.

The deadline for responses is December 6th. Councillors will finalise their spending plans for 2011/12 and future years in February.

Can I finish off by wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Tips for carol singers Are you going carol singing this year?

If so, Ecclesiastical, the largest insurer of Anglican churches, has published a leaflet with some tips to keep your party safe.

These include: wear reflective clothing to ensure that cars can see you. Never sing in the road! Always go with a group and stick together; don’t carry large amounts of cash on you; make sure you know the neighbourhoods you are singing in, plan a route, and ensure someone back at base knows where you will be; don’t carry lit candles unless protected by a lantern; never let children go alone. There is even a window poster on offer, which you can put in your window to let people know that you welcome carol singers.

For a copy, contact: pressoffice@ ecclesiastical.com

There will be a 3 course traditional Scottish meal followed by coffee, as well as bagpipes and Scottish entertainment.

Vegetarian option available.

Reservations can be made for tables of 10 people.

For tickets (£22) and further details, please contact Teresa Jones on 01530 810018, or email info@hospicehope.org.uk

The Nativity on BBC 1 at Christmas Look out for The Nativity on the BBC this autumn.

The script has been written by Tony Jordan, hailed as the top television scriptwriter in Britain.

His work includes Boon, Minder, Eldorado, Holby Blue, and Hustle, not to mention 250 episodes of EastEnders.

This time he is telling the story of the Nativity, over four half-hour episodes on BBC1 on the run-up to Christmas. Jordan says: “I want this film of the nativity to be accessible, all right? I want it to be watched by the people who watch EastEnders, Hustle, everything I do.

I want them to watch it, believe it and sob like a child.

“I do have a faith....I believe Jesus Christ was the Son of God and that he came to take away our sins.

So, I have written a version of the nativity that I can believe. The people who watch it who aren’t already sold, they can watch it and see that it’s truthful and they can say, ‘That’s really cool.’

“It’s really helped me, writing it.

It’s helped me to make sense of the story. It’s made sense of the birth of somebody that I believed in.

Before, I had nagging doubts. Now, I don’t have any doubts.”

Laugh and the world laughs with you; snore and you sleep alone.

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Maybe I’m lucky to be going so slowly, because I may be going in the wrong direction.

Annual General Meeting The recent Annual General meeting of Markfield Community Association (the voluntary body that oversees the running of the Centre) saw a number of changes in the make up of its management committee.

After over ten years as the Chair I finally managed to relinquish this position to another worthy member of the community none other than villager Dave Moss. It was time for a change but I will still remain as treasurer and continue to fully support the centre in a voluntary role capacity.

So, your new committee now consists of the following illustrious members:

Chair: Dave Moss Vice Chair: Dave Illingworth Secretary: Ann Idle Treasurer: Ron Grantham Parish Council Representatives: Maggie Gordon and Barrie Gannon Borough Council Representative: Graeme Chilvers Centre Users and Village Representatives: Dawn Beesley, Kev Fisher, Jean Lemmon, Jeff Moulding, Peter Thorpe, John Tully and Bill Walmsley Reports to the meeting by the Chair and Centre Manager demonstrate just how much the centre has achieved over the last year and what a valuable resource the centre is for the village and surrounding rural areas. Once again my sincere thanks go to the Parish and Borough Councils, the Centre Staff and volunteers as well as all those who use and support the Centre.

Without you all we could not achieve the successes we have. The full reports can be viewed on the Centre’s website at: www.markfieldcommunitycentre.com

News from Markfield Community & Sports Centre Report from Ron Grantham, Treasurer of Markfield Community Association

Drug/Alcohol Awareness Session Reminder In last month’s edition of the Herald I mentioned that we were going to put on a special event for parents and guardians about the negative impact of drugs and alcohol on young people.

This session will take place at the Centre from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday 4th December. Staff and Officers from the local Police, Next Generation Project and the Borough Council’s Community Safety team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have, show you what the current drug scene is and what the problems are locally and how to get help if you unfortunately need it. I can assure you that this event will be very interesting and informative for you as a parent, guardian or even a grandparent or relative so, please give up a couple of hours of your time. It will be worth it.

Recent Events at the Centre Rainbows Charity Fashion Show and Sale The following is an extract from an email sent to me by Beverley Bell from Rainbows: “The Rainbows Children’s Hospice charity fashion show and sale held at the Community Centre on the 17th November was a great success, and we raised over £900.

“So thank you to everyone who came along and gave us their support, and of course to Lesley, Ann, Jenny, Julie and Jane for all

kind enough to return them to the Centre for us, or email us at rainbowscharity@live.co.uk and we can collect them. Thanks to everyone once again”.

Beverley Ambassador for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People

their help.

“We would also like to say a huge thank you to Dawn and Carol at the Centre, without their help we would never have been able to stage the event. As well as being fun to work with, they couldn’t have been more helpful, supportive and accommodating, and nothing was too much trouble for them.

“Unfortunately, we have mislaid two of our little table light cubes and wonder if someone might have taken them thinking they were free along with the chocolates, but they are part of a set which belong to one of our volunteers so whoever might have them would they be

My one regret in life is that I am not someone else.

What else can I say other than a big thank you to over a hundred people who attended the event and also to villagers Karen Moulding, Sam Langley, Angela Berry others who courageously and “expertly” walked the “cat walk” to model the clothes on offer – well done as I certainly wouldn’t have done it!

DEBRA Charity Fund Raising Success Our very own keep fit instructor Jane Thompson presented a cheque for £1000 to the Butterflies Syndrome Charity DEBRA on Saturday 20th November.

This is a result of a lot of hard work and events put on by Jane

loose end and want something to do in your free time just call in at the Centre and have a look – our staff are always willing to help and advise you as to what is on offer.

SPECIAL OFFER REMINDER- Free Bar Functions

and her keep fit class over the year supporting a little known but tragic and painful condition that particularly affects children. To date there is no known cure and there is little in the way of Government financial support to find one. Well done Jane – keep up the good work. (See also page 26)

Junior Youth Club Halloween Party Just prior to Halloween we held our now traditional Halloween Junior Youth Club party with fancy dress, apple bobbing, pumpkin lantern making, Halloween picture painting and of course our now “legendary” haunted chamber.

The difficult task of judging the fancy dress competition was made by our local Police Beat Team

officers. The serious side of the evening was to remind the youngsters to behave and not upset people with Halloween trick or treat pranks. This message seems to have worked as the Police had no serious complaints of bad behaviour on Halloween night in the village.

40th Birthday Celebration On Saturday 30th October Sarah Sheen celebrated her BIG Four-O Birthday with family and friends.

Judging by the amount of Halloween fancy dress and posters Sarah must be a Halloween baby – at least she stayed and enjoyed

the evening and didn’t go flying off. Many congratulations on your fortieth from all at the centre.

As mentioned in last month’s Herald as a way of rewarding our customers we are offering free bar function booking hire of the Centre from January to March 2011. This means that you can have a family celebration without the cost of the normal room and bar hire costs.

For terms and conditions please contact the Centre Manager.

Centre Activities

Season’s Greetings

If you have a look at the Centre’s website ( at www. markfieldcommunitycentre. com) - you will find that we provide a wide range of activities to suit most people of all age ranges and abilities.

Just a reminder that the Centre will be closed over the Christmas and New Year holidays.

There is always something for you to do from relaxing in our YOGA classes on Monday mornings and Tuesday evenings, for our more elderly residents enjoying socialising and indoor games at our Open Afternoon sessions on Wednesdays or simply having a game of BINGO on Friday evenings. If you are at a

You may see us down there having an annual clear up and tidy round ready for business as usual in 2011.

In the mean time and on behalf of the Committee and all of the staff at the Centre may I wish you all a very enjoyable and peaceful Christmas and despite the present economic gloom a prosperous 2011.

For booking and enquiries please contact Markfield Community and Sports Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield LE67 9ST or ring 01530 242240.

Nobody can be exactly like me. Even I have trouble doing it.

10 NEXT THORNTON W.I. MEETING

CHRISTMAS MEETING Thursday, 9th December at 7.30pm at Thornton Community Centre We all look forward to the festive atmosphere of our December meeting and this year welcome MARGARET WILSON as our speaker. Margaret’s talk is entitled “Singing For You” and we expect that this talented vocalist will include some well-loved, seasonal items in her repertoire for the evening.

It is our custom to organise our own variant of “Secret Santa” which takes the form of a “present-dip” , into which everyone puts a Christmas gift, and from which everyone “dips” a surprise present from a WI friend to take home to unwrap on Christmas morning! (Presents must cost no more than £2) Before they are “dipped”, the presents are judged in our monthly competition, which for December, will be for “An Attractively-wrapped Christmas Present”.

So, if you can do more than wrap a bottle of bubble bath so that it resembles a Christmas cracker, or disguise a box of chocolates as Santa’s sleigh – here’s your chance to shine!

There will be a Christmas Raffle and a Faith Buffet for us to enjoy.

There is an open invitation for any ladies out there to join us for a happy evening in good company.

VISITORS ARE VERY WELCOME. (Visitor’s fee £2) We will be launching our programme for 2011, which includes a wonderful variety of speakers with interesting topics to cater for all tastes. If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to come along to one of our meetings, but would like a 2011 programme, then please ring me on 01455 822148 and I will get one to you.

Muriel Walker



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

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

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

Hot off the press …. and fresh from the oven!

Café Re-Launch at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary At Redgate we are excited to announce that we have re-opened our Café with a brother and sister team of cooks: Ashley Stevenson and Debbie Noon at the helm.

They have worked on a great new menu THE TEAM: (l-r) Debbie (chef), Ashley (chef) for you to try out and are currently and Hayley (yard manager). planning a real ‘Ramsay-style’ make over so keep visiting us to watch our progress!

Redgate Cafe offers everyone a warm welcome and we believe it’s the perfect place to warm up on a cold day with a hot mug of chocolate and slice of homemade cake. We are proud to be a dog friendly cafe so bring your well behaved dog too!

We believe our new menu has something for everyone including an all day breakfast, vegetarian options, a selection of desserts, a new children’s menu as well as the good old favourites such as sizzling hot fish and chips.

Why not try out our delicious weekly specials with a range of traditional homemade meals such as Cottage Pie with buttery parsnip and cheddar mash. You will always be sure of a warm welcome.

Opening hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10.30am - 3.30pm and we are hoping to extend these to 7 days a week soon so watch this space.

Keep an eye on our website: www.redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk Or come and visit us – we only close on Christmas Day! We are located on the side of the A511 at Shaw Lane (on the edge of Stanton under Bardon), half way between Markfield and Ellistown. The yard is now open for parking – simply pull in at the end of Shaw Lane, open the gate, pull in and park (and please don’t forget to shut the gate again!).

One martini is all right, two is too many, and three is not enough.

11



WHITES HAIR & BEAUTY

Party time !!

Fantastic gift sets in stock

Hair up Curling Extensions

 

Colouring



Facials

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Massage Waxing



Gel & Acrylic nails

  

   

Gift Vouchers



         

        

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

12 THORNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE

Going for Gold!

Come and help at your local nature reserve

In September, thirty-three community groups from across Leicestershire and Rutland gathered together at the AGM of the Rural Community Council.

They were there to celebrate achievements made in various categories.

We, in Thornton, had entered our Community Centre in the Village/ Community Hall Section, and had been visited by three judges who asked searching questions about the building and its affiliate groups and users. All relevant policy documentation, licences, accounts and general paperwork had been scrutinised, and the building itself, including our new extension, had been thoroughly inspected.

It was, therefore, such an accolade to be awarded a Gold Award in our section! The overall winner was Sapcote, and one other Gold Award was given to Manton in Rutland.

Diana Cook, the Project Manager for the competition, commended the impressive range of entries which, she said, was a recognition of the hard work and dedication of volunteers who seek to improve their own communities.

The Award was presented by Mrs. John Heggs, and was accepted, on behalf of the Centre trustees, by Mrs. Iris Gleeson, who continues to work tirelessly for the Centre as she has since its inception.

Iris says, “I was very pleased that, through this competition, it is proved that our Centre is being run in a successful and orderly manner.

“We should all be proud that our efforts have been recognised across the county.”

Yes – we are proud. May our endeavours to improve facilities at the Centre, so that it continues to serve the village well, long continue!

Thank you, also, to those of you who continue to work for, and support, in many ways, our Village Community Centre.

John Walker (Chair of Trustees)

New 5-a-side football league launched A new five-a-side football league is being launched at Hood Park Leisure Centre, in Ashby de la Zouch.

The league starts on Thursday 3rd February and teams are being encouraged to sign up now to secure their place. Matches take place between 6pm and 8pm.

Organised by North West Leicestershire District Council’s Active Together Team, the league is open to new and existing teams with players aged 16-19 years old of any ability.

Councillor Trevor Pendleton, Leisure Champion for North West Leicestershire District Council, said: “We know there are a lot of five-aside teams in the district looking to join leagues and so decided to set one up ourselves. We hope this will attract existing and new teams and become a regular fixture at Hood Park On Thursday nights.

“If you are interested in signing up, get in touch now to make sure you get your place ready for the start of the league in the New year.”

Contact Christopher.Mawbey@nwleicestershire.gov.uk for more information. There is no joining fee and the cost is £10 each week.

The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust are looking for volunteers to join the Ulverscroft work party at the beautiful Ulverscroft Nature Reserve, near Markfield.

The group meet on the first Sunday of the month from 9.00 am until midday throughout the year.

Come and help carry out a variety of activities such as removing scrub from the important heath grasslands, paths maintenance or work in the woodlands. Winter is a busy time of year on the reserve as we make the most of being able to carry out practical tasks without disturbing nesting birds or damaging any wild flowers. As well as learning new practical skills, you will also learn more about how this nature reserve is managed and the wide variety of wildlife that can be found there.

Group leader Steve Woodward says “Getting up on a winter morning to cut gorse or brambles might not seem appealing - but it is actually very enjoyable, it keeps you fit and there’s a good chance of seeing some special wildlife - on the November work party we found the nest of a harvest mouse.”

No previous experience is necessary but you need to be over 18 years of age and reasonably fit. You will also need to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and suitable footwear for uneven and muddy conditions.

You will be provided with tools and gloves and shown how to use the tools safely.

For more details, please contact Nathalie on 0116 272 8853 or e-mail ncossa@lrwt.org.uk

Time is a great teacher, but unfortunately it kills all its pupils.

13

Thornton Community Speed Watch

Speeding is a community problem with speeding checks often revealing that many drivers exceeding the speed limit are local to the village and surrounding area.

Community Speed Watch [Be a Local Hero] is a partnership initiative operating only in Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland using the combined efforts of the local residents and supported by Leicestershire County Council.

Community Speed Watch is a scheme to help people reduce speeding traffic though their community. The scheme enables volunteers to work within their community to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding and to help control the problem locally.

Community Speed Watch incorporates poster campaigns and a pledge system linked to direct action using radar speed guns and Vehicle Activated Signs, all under the supervision of the County Council. The use of the radar devices will not lead to prosecution – drivers will get a letter from the police instead – but will help to underline the community’s commitment to reducing speed.

I am hoping to organise a Speed Watch Campaign in Thornton between Monday 4th April and Sunday 17th April 2011, if you are able to volunteer your time to help with the campaign please contact me on the details below.

Anita Beeby - Mobile: 07889 219843 or Email: nwdo@btinternet.com I will also be leaving ‘sign up’ sheets at the local shop, school and community centre if you would like to add your details, I will be in touch.

The campaign that we ran last year was very successful, so with your help we can continue to keep our roads safe with a second successful campaign.

Whenever I get the urge to exercise, I lie down until the feeling passes.

14

Blood Donor Session on 19th January THERE will be a Blood Donor Session at Markfield Community Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield on Wednesday 19th January 2011 (1pm-3.30pm and 5pm-8pm).

To make an appointment, please call 0300 123 23 23.

Saltmine Theatre Company The brilliant young actors of Saltmine Theatre Company invite you to make a date with the Three Musketeers. So, write it in your diary now: Thursday 16th December 2010 at Kirby Muxloe Free Church.

Schools matinee at 10am, all age performance at 7pm; Children under 12 pay £3, everyone else pays £5.

Tickets for the evening show can be booked NOW. EITHER: send your money (cheques made payable to Kirby Muxloe Free Church) with a stamped self addressed envelope to KMFC, Main Street, Kirby Muxloe, LEICESTER, LE9 2AN; OR: you can pay by credit card and obtain your tickets directly from Saltmine. The number for the credit card hotline is 01384 454808.

Tickets will be sent to you as soon as they become available.

Community award for Markfield sailor Sam Ford Sam Ford (17), of Markfield, has been presented with a prestigious Royal Yachting Association Youth Community Award

by HRH The Princess Royal.

The award, one of only four awarded annually, was presented at a luncheon held in Westminster on the 18th November and was for Sam’s voluntary services to sailing.

Sam learnt to sail four years ago at Burton Sailing Club based at Foremark Reservoir. As this is in Derbyshire Sam competes in the Derbyshire Youth Sailing (DYS) race series sailing his Laser dinghy at events across the county. This year he finished the series as 3rd placed Senior. He has also represented Derbyshire at team racing events and national regattas with some success.

Two years ago Sam volunteered to take over the DYS website. This has details of racing and training events and records the race series results. Sam rebuilt the website and

Sam Ford receiving his award from HRH The Princess Royal continues to regularly maintain and update it (see www.dysailing. com). The website has attracted new members, including a number from Leicestershire, who now participate in events. Sam also does voluntary activities at Burton Sailing Club. He is a qualified power boat driver which enables him to do rescue duties and he helps out as

assistant dinghy instructor on the Clubs training courses teaching other adults and children to sail, thus passing on his love of the sport to others. He is working towards becoming a qualified instructor and hopes to complete the course in February. (Learn to sail – visit www.burtonsailingclub.co.uk).

Change to council house lettings system A CHANGE will soon be made to the way that council housing properties are let.

Together with the six other Leicestershire district councils, Hinckley & Bosworth has developed a simpler, more transparent way of applying for homes. Many of the housing associations who also have properties in the county will be advertising their vacant properties through the same scheme.

At present a points system is used for assessing an applicant’s priority for housing. Under the new system, each applicant will be placed into one of four housing needs bands - low, medium, high and priority.

Every fortnight, vacant properties will be advertised on a website, in a newsletter and in the council offices. People on the housing register will be able to view these properties and register their details against any property they are interested in where they meet the property criteria.

An offer will be made to the person in the highest housing need band with the earliest registration date.

As part of the change to the new system, the council has asked everyone who is currently on the council housing register to complete a new housing registration form if they are still interested in council housing.

Those who are currently on the housing register and have not received a form or are having difficulties completing it, should contact the council’s Housing Allocations Team, who will be happy to assist with any queries. The new scheme will begin in the new year.

Councillor David Cope, Executive Member responsible for Housing, said: “I am pleased to see this improved way of letting council properties, and hope that it will prove to be beneficial in ensuring, wherever possible, housing needs can be better met. It is important though that those on council waiting lists do re-register to ensure they are considered appropriately and effectively.”

Never put off until tomorrow what you can avoid altogether.

15

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When you do not know what you are doing, do it neatly.

16

W

ell at last and it seems at long last, the Co-op have submitted outline proposals for a new store to be built at the existing location although on a different footprint. I have been pushing for this for some time and so I was delighted to get a call from the council telling me proposals have now arrived.

The desire to see a new store with better access and off road parking has been one I have supported for a long time, indeed I feel like I have been on about it for years. When we drew up plans to improve the Main Street at Markfield some 14 years ago, the need to provide off road parking was a big concern that I wanted resolved, this of course was at a time when the chemist was still on the street and parking could be a real problem, it still is but the volume is slightly less. I secured funding back then for a 20 space car park which would have been provided in conjunction with the brewery when The George was still a functioning public house.

The snag at the time was over land ownership, as the brewery did not own the freehold on the land and so could not agree a license for the time required for public funds. The saga went on for a while and when

Exciting news about Markfield Co-op Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in the Herald eventually the brewery did acquire the freehold they wanted to partly develop the site for residential.

This was not unreasonable but it required land in the ownership of the Co-op to ensure the correct width of access was provided. The Co-op played hard ball and wanted a significant payment in return for the land (known as a ransom strip).

The brewery appeared to lose interest and a few years later the George was destroyed by its tenants and closed never to open again, or so it would seem.

The Co-op ended up purchasing the George site and clearly recognised the development potential. Discussions had been held in the past about the Co-op improving the store at Markfield which is a well used and highly profitable venture. In the previous discussions I had been involved in, the Co-op had said that to build a new store they would require a site which they could develop while keeping the existing store functioning until it was complete,

this would ensure a store operated in Markfield during construction.

They had in the past considered purchasing the old factory on the Green prior to the new houses being built, the cost of the factory was too great and the plan did not progress.

The sale of the George allowed the Co-op to acquire land to develop a new store, and at towards the end of last year I had a meeting with architects from the Co-op about some initial ideas they had put forward. These ideas involved the knocking down of the George to build a new store which the Council’s conservation officer was not supportive of. This was because the George is one of Markfield’s older buildings and lies within the conservation area. We went inside the George with the architects and they did not feel it was viable to keep the building, but clearly agree they would go away and discuss how to take the plan forward.

Going inside the George after it had been empty for such a period

of time was strange. I remember the pub being a vibrant place in my youth, I remembered Daisy and Terry behind the bar, I remembered going to get chocolate and sweets in evenings from the off licence at the side of the pub before stores opened beyond 6pm. It was in many ways my local. The inside of

There’s a fine line between genius and insanity. I have erased this line.

17

Markfield Co Op the pub was in a sorry state and you could feel the sadness at its plight. It must be said I was a little nervous at asking the Co-op to go back to the drawing board but the conservation officer was adamant that the building needed to be preserved in some form and although I agreed, I was also concerned that we regenerate the site with some urgency as it was becoming a real mess and having a detrimental impact on the local area.

Well some months later the Co-

op have come back and they have produced outline plans that will keep the George largely intact and refurbished. The new Co-op store will be joined to the George from the rear and go back behind.

The design has a barrelled roof and is clad in wood giving it a modern environmentally friendly appearance. The entrance to the store will be from the side, not the front and it will ensure access is easier for those with mobility problems. The parking situation

will be vastly improved as 20 public spaces are proposed and space is provided for the service lorries to turn and deliver without holding the traffic up. The George will become office and staff space for the Co-op. When the new store is built they will remove the existing store and replace it with some residential accommodation in keeping with the conservation area.

The demolition of the existing Coop store is not thought to present any conservation issues as the Coop has changed its design many times over the years but it did strike me that the store has been there for a long time and with it people will have many memories. I can just about remember the long counter behind which most produce was situated although it was soon self service. It is also worth noting that back in days before supermarkets the Co-op was part of a much wider variety of retail outlets in the Village. I can still remember a good number which were around as I grew up and no longer exist, such as Joyner’s on the corner of Main Street and Wardle’s the bakery which made the finest bread in Leicestershire. I can remember the Top shop on Ashby Rd and my Auntie’s wool shop and of course we had the Mace, a rival of sorts to the Co-op.

As the new Co-op is eventually developed it is still important

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we support the local stores of Markfield, Stanton and Field Head, who today provide a good variety of produce and services. It is these stores that put the C into community, I immediately think of Hulls on Ratby Lane, Londis, the Newsagent, the Chemist, the Cake shop, the new hardware shop Bowns and the Post Office at Stanton.

The Co-op have indicated that they would like to move things forward in the new year with a builder on site by the late spring.

Of course a number of things need to happen before this including the planning process and I hope the Co-op seek the public’s views on the new store design, after all, it is the public who keep the place in business by shopping there. Undoubtedly the new store will give a much needed boost to the Main Street although sadly uncertainty still surrounds the old chemist building. The new store should also attract more shoppers with more produce on offer and I hope more competitive pricing, this in turn will attract more interest to the commercial heart of Markfield. It will also tie in with further environmental improvements which have been agreed with the Borough Council and should further enhance the area.

18

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

Shoebox Appeal, 20th Anniversary It’s a record this year! The final number of filled boxes we received was 62, which we have now taken to our local Drop Off Point, The Hall School in Glenfield (we collected 61 in 2008 and 55 in 2009). It was wonderful that we collected our highest ever number of boxes in the 20th anniversary year of the appeal and we are very grateful for the generosity that has been shown in our local area by those people who filled and brought shoeboxes to us. Please take a look at www.samaritanspurse.org.uk for some short films about the distribution of the shoeboxes in previous years.

School Assemblies Our Sunday Club leader, Ruth Holmes, assisted by Bekki Holmes, visited Dovebank and Thornton Primary schools in October with their puppet, Tommy and his pet caterpillar, Colin, to take their

assemblies. They told the story of Claudia the caterpillar to show what happens when a caterpillar begins a brand new life as a butterfly. Tommy was very excited

by Colin turning into a butterfly and it made him think of our new life in Jesus, so he sang “You’re wonderful”, which the children really enjoyed. All the children were left with a colourful postcard to remind them of the visit.

Christmas Carol Service, Saturday 18th December 7.30pm Marwood Brass Band will be playing for us again and Santa will be making his usual visit (and we hope he will be bringing some sweets with him again to hand out to the children!) Mince Pies will be served with tea and coffee afterwards.

An offering will be taken during this Service, with half going to support the work of the Lawrence House Hinckley Homeless Project

and half to support Marwood Brass Band.

Christmas Services Why not take some time out from the shopping and hustle and bustle of Christmas and come and share the real joy of the Season by celebrating the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

You will be made very welcome at our friendly church, whether you come alone or with friends, whether it is your first visit or if you have visited us before. If you have visitors or family staying with you over Christmas, why not bring them along with you!

Our Sunday Club will be doing a short Christmas presentation at our service on Sunday 19th December.

For full details of all the dates and times of our services please see the Church Service Information section in this magazine.

We look forward to seeing you and a Happy Christmas to everyone.

Contact Numbers

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

Apply on time for school places

Parents of children due to start school for the first time are being urged to apply for places before the closing date.

Applications for infant or primary school places must be made by 15th January, 2011 for children who will be four years old before 1st September, 2011. All parents need to apply – even for their child to attend their catchment area school.

Late applicants may not be offered a place at any of their preferred schools, or even their catchment area school, so parents are being urged to make sure they don’t miss the closing date.

To apply for a place, please visit: www.leics.gov.uk/admissions , contact Leicestershire County Council’s Admissions team for a form or pick up from your local school.

Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Children and Young People’s Service, said: “It is very important that all parents apply on time to give their children the best possible chance of being offered a place in their preferred school. If parents are late and there are a lot of requests, even if they live next door to the school, they are unlikely to get a place for their child.

“Last year, we were very successful in meeting parents’ preferences but, as always, late applicants run the risk of disappointment as schools do become full.”

For a form or more information, please contact School Admissions at Leicestershire County Council on 0116 305 6684 or email: admissions@leics.gov.uk

Cryptic Quiz Quiz Queen of Stanton, Sheila Fox, has sent us another selection of cryptic clues for readers to solve.

The subject this time appropriately - is Christmas. See how many Christmas related items you can find from the 20 clues below.

Answers on page 34.

1.

Papa Noel 2.

Precipitation darling 3.

Found in words now 4.

Victoria Cross, George Medal & Purple Heart 5.

Trio of sages 6.

Thatcher & Vorderman 7.

You’d be nuts to pull them!

8.

Sounds like a fruity Bond Girl 9.

Kill the toboggan 10. Card game for Christmas?

11. Celebrity in the sky?

12. Ace of Hearts, Jack of Diamonds, 9 of spades 13. Find throb in little bird 14. Haircut for Christmas?

15. It’s not easily moved this building 16. You don’t have to go there for dinner!

17. Sovereign’s oration 18. Did Simple Simon have these for Christmas?

19. Tinkerbell’s illuminations 20. Martin selects Christmas decoration

Why teenagers worry One teenager was talking to another, “I’m really concerned. My father slaves away at his job so I’ll never want for anything, and down the years has set aside thousands of pounds so that I can go to college.

And my mother spends every day washing and ironing and cleaning up after me. She even takes care of me when I’m sick.”

The other teenager said: “Sounds perfect – so what are you worried about?”

The first teenager replied: “I’m afraid that one day they might try to escape.”

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19

Do you know who is driving your child home?

It may interest parents to know the results of a recent survey conducted by the AA/Populous.

The survey asked 18,500 AA members what they considered was the biggest threat to young adults.

The highest risks were considered to be: Drugs 31%, Drinking 25%, Gun/ knife crime 25%, Driving 11%, Smoking 4%, Sex 1%, Disease >1% and Other 2%. This shows how much parents under estimate the real threat. In fact, statistics show that 74% of accidental teenage deaths happen on the road.

We have all seen the recent news stories relating the government’s attempts to improve road safety within the 17-25 yr age group by targeting newly qualified drivers, and to a certain extent this is slowly having an effect, however, last year in the 16-19 year old age group, more teenagers died as passengers (94) than as drivers (79). This is the first time that passenger deaths have overtaken driver deaths since 2004, and shows the importance for parents to vet the drivers and cars that their offspring are to travel in.

These statistics sit alongside another report, also from the AA, regarding the wearing of seatbelts. A third of all car occupants killed are not wearing seatbelts when travelling in vehicles. And rear seat passengers are highlighted as having one of the lowest seat belt wearing rates, along with men (especially young men) and company car drivers.

Although legally, it is the individuals own responsibility to wear their seatbelt once over the age of 14, the driver, and in fact anyone else travelling in a car, has a responsibility to ensure the safety of others. Lets face it, a loose, 100-150lb dead weight flying around inside a car in the event of an accident, won’t be good for anyone else in the vehicle whether they are wearing their seatbelts or not!

Halves the risk of death in a collision The importance of this is illustrated when you consider that seatbelts more than halve the risk of death in a collision and the 7% not wearing a seatbelt are over-represented in fatalities. In fact the sort of drivers who choose not to wear their seatbelts are twice as likely to be involved in an accident as those who do belt up.

Drivers of private hire cars, vans, lorries, buses, coaches and minibuses are the worst offenders with only 69% regularly wearing seatbelts. Many of these drivers seem to be under the misapprehension that they do not have to wear a belt, however the rules are the same for them as car drivers.

Drivers of vehicles constructed or adapted to carry goods are exempt providing their journey does not exceed 50 metres, and private hire drivers are exempt ONLY while carrying fare paying passengers. Only taxis licensed to pick up when hailed, known as Hackney carriages, are exempt when empty providing they are on duty.

So what could not wearing a seatbelt cost you? Currently the penalties range from a £60 fixed penalty fine, up to a maximum of £500 if it goes to court.

Or, of course, you could pay the ultimate price with your life....

David Hurst

It’s hard to face the problem, when the problem is your face.

20

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Martin’s Christmas Quiz Answers These are the answers to the Christmas Quiz that was set at our Annual Christmas and Craft Fair on Saturday 13 November.

This year, rightly so, we have constantly been reminded of the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces as they engage in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan.

Songs like ‘Coming Home’ and the ‘Help for Heroes’ initiative have kept that conflict in the forefront of our minds. Maybe that contributed to the number attending the Remembrance Day Service at St Peter’s this year.

The Service was led by Rev. Simon Nicholls, George Lee laid the Poppy Wreath at the memorial window and three stirring hymns were sung, together with both verses of the National Anthem. The day was spoiled in the afternoon however when the Poppy Wreaths in the Lych Gate were set on fire. The Police have been informed but I, for one, despair of, and cannot understand, the motive behind this act of vandalism.

The previous day the Friends of St Peter’s held its Annual Christmas and Craft Fair at the Community Centre. All the usual stall holders were there with their goods in abundance, and a very enjoyable atmosphere prevailed.

At the time of writing it is expected that the net receipt will be in the order of £1250. Our thanks are extended to stallholders and customers alike - not forgetting those ladies in the kitchen, or Santa in his Grotto - all of whom contributed to make this event such a success. The money raised will go towards the provision of a new heating system in church. We all know this is long overdue, but I am happy to reveal that we have already sought advice from the heating engineer who serves on the Diocesan Advisory Committee and now await a decision on the type of heating suitable for St. Peter’s before we can proceed further.

At the time you receive this copy of the Herald, the Thornton Senior Citizens will be enjoying their Annual Christmas party and, as the month proceeds many similar events will be taking place. I particularly ask you to bear in mind the Christmas Services at St Peter’s which are: • Sunday 19th December: Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at 6pm • Friday 24th December: Christingle Service at 4pm and Communion at 11.30pm May I from all at St Peter’s wish all readers of the Herald a very Happy Christmas.

Martin Foster

23. Squares on a chessboard 24. Wives of Henry the Eighth 25. Keys on a grand piano 26. One less than a thousand 27. November, Guy Faulks Night 1. Twelve days of Christmas 28. Pecks in a bushel 2. Chestnuts roasting on an open 29. Duke of York’s men fire 30. Books in the Old Testament 3. Three wise men from the East 31. Oldham 4. I’m dreaming of a white 32. Bolton Christmas 33. Blackpool 5. Post early for Christmas 34. Whitehaven 6.Deck the hall with boughs of holly 35. Margate (or Exeter) 7. Rudolph the red nosed reindeer 36. Harrow 8. In the bleak mid winter 37. Stoke 9. Nine lessons and carols 38. Worcester 10. Christians awake salute the 39. Leeds happy 40. Oxford 11. Eight in Santa’s reindeer team 41. Packington 12. The Queen’s speech 42. Appleby Magna 13. A decree from Caesar Augustus 43. Ratby 14. Joy to the world 44. Whetstone 15. Frosty the snowman 45. Thornton 16. Gold frankincense and myrrh 46. Bagworth 17. O little town of Bethlehem 47. Desford 18. Nativity play 48. Whitwick 19. Virgin Mary 49. Congerstone 20. Once in Royal David’s city 50. Woodhouse Eaves 21. Thieves in Ali Baba 22. Queen victoria died

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

21

LETTER Although I do not live in the Herald catchment area, I do occasionally get to see a copy provided by a third party, and have been interested in some of the writings about the Markfield transport situation of yesteryear (Brown’s Blue, Warners, etc.).

This letter is to remind those interested of ‘Charnwood Productions Ltd’ which was at the A50 end of Ratby Lane, almost opposite Mr.Hull’s shop, and bordered on one side by the home of Mr.Chapman (builder) and on the other by the dwelling of Mr & Mrs Cooper and their two daughters. The space in between now crammed full of houses - was where Charnwood Productions was situated.

It was in fact a timber yard and sawmill, using locally felled trees, and hauling them from site to mill. It was owned

by Mr.Richard Murphy, who had his own haulage business for years until nationalised in about 1949. Mr.Murphy was well known locally and was a parish, District and Parochial Councillor. Their stock in trade was basically coffin boards (Elm and Oak), Ash for ladder making and turning, Beech for shoe heels, and all sorts of timber for the National Coal Board - supplied to the various coal mines in the area for shoring and supporting the mine galleries.

Exceptional timber went for exceptional use, such as veneers, etc. They also built sheds, garden furniture, farm gates and items for farmers.

My old mate Denis was responsible for most of the carpentry. (If you read this, Den, I hope you are keeping well.)

There were also two tipper lorries hauling coal and quarry mix full time, and one ‘General Duties’ tipper, sometimes doing the above, and sometimes delivering the firm’s products.

On timber hauling were the ‘Unipower’ - see photo - and an ex-Army Bedford QL, both pulling trailers (called drugs0, with the tree felling gang accompanying them. It all finished around 1961/2.

Plus - don’t forget Ernie Bott and harry Finch, who were self-employed tipper drivers.

I hope this is of interest to someone. If anyone needs more, I can be contacted on 0116 238 7363.

The photo above was taken during the late 1950s. The tree loaded is an Elm and it is on the Earl of Lanesborough’s Estate at Swithland.

A Former Worker at Charnwood Productions

If I’d known I was going to live this long, I’d have taken better care of myself.

22

Wise men follow the star !

                             

I almost had a psychic girlfriend but she left me before we met.

23 THE MARKFIELD & THORNTON THEATRE GROUP

What? No Panto?

Just Wait and See! Expect Warm Laughter From Cold Front?

Yes, it’s true. Due to, as it’s said, “circumstances beyond our control” we are unable to stage a pantomime in January as has been our custom.

We are truly sorry to disappoint our regular pantomime audiences and hope to be back in Pantoland the following year.

However……. don’t be too disappointed because we have a delightful family farce to entertain you in the dark days of January!

We are to stage a play which our Group first performed in 1969 – it made us laugh then, and it makes us laugh now. Some comedies don’t stand the test of time very well, but we are sure that this one does. It is “Friends and Neighbours” by Austin Steele which has become a comedy classic . It is a good Northern romp, designed to entertain the whole family with lots of laughs, a whirlwind of misunderstanding s and slapstick mayhem.

Austin Steele only ever wrote one play, and then took his talents elsewhere - writing for the TV series “Dave Allen at Large”, “ Oh Father” and “ Tarbuck’s Luck”, among others, and providing material for “The Two Ronnies” as well as for Beryl Reid and Kenneth Williams.

“Friend and Neighbours” was written at a time when the Cold War was at its chilliest. Albert and Lilly Grimshaw are obliged to entertain guest from behind the Iron Curtain when a Russian delegation visits the factory where Albert works. Can the Grimshaws and their friends and neighbours overcome the cultural differences which exist? Will the visiting engineers succumb to their northern hospitality?

In the Director’s chair for MTTG will be David Woodward. He is especially looking forward to this play as it appeals very much to his own sense of humour and he feels it will also appeal to our audiences.

Treading the boards will be Ian Lay, Muriel Walker, Roderick Lay, Rosalie Kovacs, Laura Vesty, Sascha Kovacs, Tadeusz Dobrowolski and Imogen Hartley. They are following in the footsteps of Mollie Sugden, Danny Ross and Valentine Dyall – “The Man In Black” – who appeared in the first production at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London 50 years ago.

Roderick will be recreating the role he first played for our Group in 1969!

(We’ve told him he should remember the lines!)

We would very much like to hear from others in that original cast.

Therefore, please support your local Am. Dram. Group and order your tickets now!

Winners from Little Markfield Farm Open Farm Sunday & Apple Day The winners of the pumpkin competition from Little Markfield Farm Open Farm Sunday on June 13th were Ella and Maisie Perkins.

Congratulations to you both - and many thanks to their mum for supplying these pictures.

Radio Leicester’s Gardening Expert Ady Dayman presented them with their prizes at the Apple Day on the farm.

The Apple Crumble competition was also judged

by Ady. The children put the adults to shame with Florence Coleman winning first in the children’s competition, well done Flo!

Brenda Featherstone

WE RELY ON YOUR SUPPORT! FRIENDS & NEIGHBOURS by AUSTIN STEELE, will run from Wednesday 19th to Saturday 22nd January 2011 at Thornton Community Centre at 7.30 p.m. nightly. Tickets can be obtained on 01455 822148 or from Lloyd & Sue’s Corner Store in Thornton. They are priced at £5 Adults and £4 Concessions!

When I’m not in my right mind, my left mind gets pretty crowded.

24

Outstanding! Highest ever rating for South Charnwood High School

South Charnwood High School in Markfield has been rated as an outstanding school for the first time.

Ofsted inspectors have given the school the highest rating possible following their latest visit.

They praised the high standards and the excellent progress that pupils make during their time at the school.

The Ofsted report says that South Charnwood High School achieves exceptional outcomes for pupils, both academically and in their personal development.

Inspectors said pupils make outstanding progress during their four years at the school to reach standards at the end of Year 9 that are significantly higher than average.

The report says that meticulous attention is given to all aspects of care, guidance and support the school provides for pupils. The report also recognises the high attendance and excellent behaviour of pupils at the school.

The school’s head teacher and senior leadership team were praised for having sustained the drive to raise standards even further.

Ofsted said that since the last inspection, the head teacher and senior leaders had strengthened the school’s well-established record of academic achievement with pupils’ performance improving even further.

Teaching at the school was described as outstanding by the inspectors. The report says that the high standard of teaching, along with the well-organised curriculum, makes sure pupils make exceptional progress.

The report states that, because of the school’s geographical location, communication with parents can be difficult but that the school is working hard to strengthen these links.

Andrew Morris, head teacher at South Charnwood High School, said: “The report we have received is the culmination of a lot of hard work by pupils, parents, staff, school governors and everyone associated with the school.

“We are delighted that our efforts have paid off with Ofsted recognising us as an outstanding school.”

Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Children and Young People’s Service, said: “The performance of South Charnwood High School matches the aspirations of the head teacher, staff and the pupils. They set high expectations and thoroughly deserve this superb Ofsted grading.

“Lately there have been quite a few Leicestershire County Council schools moving up from being rated as good to being judged as outstanding. This is fantastic to see and shows that schools in the county are going from strength to strength.”

South Charnwood High School has become the 46th Leicestershire County Council school to be rated as outstanding.

Hypochondria is the only disease I haven’t got.

25

Bagworth and Thornton Parish Council Minutes At the time of going to press (30th November), the unapproved minutes of the November 1st meeting were not available on the parish council website.

The Herald has been asked by members of Bagworth Bowls Club to clarify a minute which appeared in last month’s issue.

The Parish Council unapproved minutes, which are displayed on the website at http://bagworthandthornton. leicestershireparishcouncils.org state: “Bowls Club – Utilities – no bills have been paid for by the Bowls club, the clerk was asked to negotiate with the bowls club for part payment of utilities. Proposed Councillor Harris, Seconded Councillor Ball and carried.”

Several members of Bagworth Bowls Club called The Herald to point out that the reason why no payments have been made for utilities is that no requests for payment have been received.

The Herald is pleased to be able to clear this point up.

What present to buy for the single person ...

Are you buying a Christmas present for a single person this year?

If so, consider the latest trend: sales of kitchenware designed for single servings are rising to cater for the record numbers of us who now live alone. So – why not consider a frying pan big enough for a single egg, small plates, and teapots that hold one cup? These items have been bestsellers at Debenhams in recent weeks.

Tellytalk

Real apprentice skills on TV ONE OF Britain’s best-known plumbers, Charlie Mullins, says young people should have more exposure to skilled jobs on television rather than the ‘pantomime’ of business shows like Lord Alan Sugar’s ‘The Apprentice.’

Charlie, who is the UK’s first millionaire plumber and founder of Pimlico Plumbers, heads the judging panel on new BBC Three programme, ‘Britain’s Best Young Plumber’, which launched on 30 November at 10.30pm, says: “We need to start giving our young people the message that skilled trades are no less prestigious a way to make a living, and that no society can function with white collar workers alone. As a country we need to relearn the value of getting your hands dirty!

“What we need are more TV shows the put REAL apprentices on our screens rather than the pantomime of a bunch of jumped-up sales execs running round London trying to impress a Lord.”

“Hopefully it will also send a positive message into living rooms across the country that will inspire other young people to pick up the tools. There are too many so-called reality business shows on TV that don’t give a platform for the vital and irreplaceable skills of hard grafting workers.

BBC3’s Young Plumber of the Year sets out to discover and recognise the talents of young engineers taking their first steps into a career in the industry. Each of the trainees will undertake a series of plumbing and heating engineering challenges, which have been devised by Charlie whose celebrity clients include James Bond actor Daniel Craig and actresses Dame Helen Mirren and Keira Knightley.

No problem is so big and complicated that it can’t be ran away from.

26

Jazz & Keep Fit Events raised £1,000 for D.E.B.R.A.

GuidePost

Maps, Books & Gifts for the Outdoor Enthusiast

www.guidepost.uk.com mail@guidepost.uk.com 0116 2874440

JANE THOMPSON held a Keep Fit Fun Day on 20th November to present a cheque for £1,000 to John Parker and Dean from D.E.B.R.A. - the Butterfly Children Charity.

Play safe with your Christmas tree

The money was raised by a Jazz Night and Keep Fit event.

Looking forward to the Winter Solstice Whether you live in the northern hemisphere or the southern hemisphere, look out for the 21st of December.

That day a ‘solstice’ occurs, where the sun is at its greatest distance from the equator. The name ‘solstice’ comes from the two Latin words ‘sol’ meaning sun, and ‘sistere’, to cause to stand still.

Solstices occur twice a year, and the winter solstice, also called ‘yule’, marks the first day of the season of winter.

On this day the sun reaches its southernmost latitude and therefore appears at its lowest in the sky at noon. The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year. In the days that follow, the sun follows a higher and higher path through the sky each day - until it is in the sky for exactly 12 hours – that will occur on the Spring equinox, 20th March, 2011.

Christmas trees look pretty – but they can be dangerous. And a poorly maintained tree could result in your celebrations coming to a disastrous end. This year, consider the following precautions: Secure your tree with a wire to prevent it tipping over. Keep your tree well away from floor heaters, radiators, fire-places and other heat sources. Fairy lights are one of the biggest causes of Christmas fires. Only use lights that have a British Standards Institution Kitemark or CE mark on the packaging. This means that have passed stringent safety tests. Even so, never join more than three strands of lights together. Ensure the mains plugs is wired the right way around. Always turn off the lights at night, or when you leave the house for any length of time. Replace blown bulbs, or the others may overheat.

NEVER use candles on a tree. More electricity is used over Christmas than at any other time of the year, and overloads can occur. Never use indoor extension cables outdoors.

I am a nobody, nobody is perfect, therefore I’m perfect.

27

Don’t be conned One-off country by bogus council parks’ wood sale phone calls Don’t be conned by bogus phone calls which claim to come from the county council, Leicestershire Trading Standards has warned.

The alert came after Leicestershire County Council received several reports from members of the public, about suspicious calls.

In each case, the caller claimed to come from “Leicester County Council” or “Leicestershire County Council” and said they were doing a phone survey.

Callers have been asked to confirm their name, house number and postcode and asked whether or not they lived alone.

In each case, the callers sounded like they had foreign accents.

In genuine calls from the county council, or an agency working on behalf of the council, the caller will clearly explain the purpose of the call and be able to provide a name and number of someone at the council that will be able to verify that the call is genuine.

If in doubt, take the details of the caller and ask them to ring back once you’ve had a chance to check with the council, by ringing the council’s Research Team on 0116 305 7341.

David Bull, Head of Trading Standards, said: “I am very concerned about these calls, which may assist rogues to target vulnerable people or to assist in identity theft.

People should not give out or confirm personal details to callers that they don’t know, especially if you are asked if you live alone. If anyone has any concerns, they should contact the national Action Fraud reporting line on 0300 123 2040, or http://www.actionfraud.org.uk/report_fraud “

A one-off fire wood sale is to be held by the rangers in a Leicestershire Country Park this month so that people can have a cosy Christmas.

All of the wood has been grown at Beacon Hill and Watermead Country Parks and is surplus to requirements due to traditional woodland management practices such as selective thinning.

The mixed species seasoned hardwood logs have been cut, split and bagged up for your convenience. They will be available to buy from the rangers at Beacon Hill’s lower car park from 10am to 12.30, on Saturday December the 11th.

Why not bring the family for a festive walk in the park and take home a few bags to keep you warm over Christmas? There is a limited amount of wood so get there early to avoid disappointment.

For more information on Beacon Hill Country Park visit: www.leics.gov.uk/beaconhill www.facebook.com/BeaconHillCountryPark

Markfield WI’s Programme Dec 15th A concert of festive music and supper - Highcliffe Harmony Markfield Women’s Institute • The WI exists to educate women to enable them to provide an effective role in the community, to expand their horizons and to develop and pass on important skills. • Meet at: Markfield Trinity Methodist Church, Main Street, MARKFIELD, LE67 9UU When: 3rd Wed of month at 7.45pm • Contacts: President, Mrs.Fran Johnson, 197 Main Street, Markfield Tel: 01530 243350 email: markfieldfran@hotmail.com

Newly Refurbished

The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street, Thornton Tel: 01530 230808 www.bricklayersarms.net

Home-Made Pie Night Tuesdays - £5.95 Pasta & Rice Night Wednesdays - £6.50

Wishing All Our Customers & Friends a Fantastic Christmas & Prosperous New Year Traditional Sunday Lunch

2 Courses - £9.00 or 3 Courses - £11.00 With personal service to your table

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

If I have to work for an idiot, I might as well work for myself.

28

Mary’s Christmas Visitor A Short Story by local writer Gail Armson

M

ary was sat in her favourite chair, opposite the hearth, so she could benefit from the warmth of the little two bar electric fire.

The cheery red glow gave her great comfort during the long lonely hours. Although there was a television in the corner of the room she rarely watched any programmes other than the news and the Antiques Road Show.

She enjoyed reading her daily paper and endeavoured to finish the crossword every day. How frustrating she found it when she had only one or two words left to complete the puzzle but because there was rarely anyone to ask for a little help it remained incomplete. But that was how all of Mary’s days were, now that she had reached this great age, frustrating. Her occasional visitors would all make great exclamations about her age and say how truly wonderful it was to be so old.

Mary thought wryly to herself that they wouldn’t think it so wonderful if they were this great age.

“Two for you today Mary,” said the cheerful lady who delivered her meals every weekday, arriving in a little white van, always tooting the car horn as she pulled up, to give Mary a little extra time to get to the door. “Goodness me it’s cold outside today. Snow is forecast later on so we could have a white Christmas! Now won’t that be lovely? Here’s today’s dinner and it’s still good and hot and I’ll leave tomorrows on the table.

You’ll just need to put it in the fridge until you’re ready to heat it up tomorrow. They’ve done a really good job with the Christmas dinners this year and I think you’ll enjoy it and there’s Christmas pudding, two mince pies and a cracker. Isn’t that lovely? Well I must dash. I want to get home as early as possible because I’ve got all the family descending on me later and I’ve got so much to do... dear me I shall be glad when the

Christmas madness is all over for another year. Eh Mary what do you think?”

Mary opened her mouth to answer but she couldn’t keep up with this whirlwind that had entered her quiet, almost motionless, home. Before she could answer her visitor was at the front door, stepping out onto the path, bidding her a cheery goodbye and wishing her a very merry Christmas and announcing that the snow was falling already and she’d never get back in time and the family.....

Mary quietly closed the front door and struggled back into the parlour to sit down at the table to eat her Christmas Eve dinner. She eyed the Christmas Day meal suspiciously and decided that the temperature of the room meant it didn’t warrant an overnight stay in the fridge.

Christmas morning, no newspaper and the carol service just finished on the radio, Mary hobbled to the window and looked out at the beautiful white newness of a fresh snowfall. All sounds were muffled as though wrapped in cotton wool and the sky was a heavy green-grey and looked ready to unload more heavenly dust. Mary shivered and, walking bent over, holding on to the furniture, slowly made her way to her chair pausing, just briefly, to stare at the garish red cracker lying on the table. She shook her head sadly. How does one pull a cracker when alone?

She sank gratefully into her chair and closed her eyes. She didn’t want the dinner. It was too early;

only eleven. The clock on the wall ticked slow and steady, as it had for many years, rhythmic and comforting. Today it seemed to tick so much louder than usual. The sound filled Mary’s ears until she drifted off to sleep.

Mary opened her eyes aware that the loud ticking from the clock was actually someone knocking on her front door. She had slept a long while; it was after two in the afternoon and the parlour was already almost in darkness. She took a few moments to gather her wits and then heaved herself out of her chair to go and answer the persistent knocking at the door.

“Who is it?” She called out as she tried to switch on the hallway light.

Nothing happened. Perhaps the light bulb had gone but then she realised that the parlour was so dark because her electric fire wasn’t on either.

“What a nuisance; the snow must have caused a power cut”, Mary thought to herself.

The knocking continued and Mary unlocked the catch and opened the door a fraction to peer out into the gloom. A tall figure of a man stood in silhouette against the backdrop of snow.

“Mary? It’s me. It’s Edward. Will you let me in? I almost gave up. I’ve been waiting for you to answer for ages.”

Mary pulled back the door to let Edward in and wished the hall light would come on so she could see him more clearly. How lovely of eldest grandson to come all

I’m out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message.

this way to visit her and in such weather. Her daughter’s husband had held a very important job, before his retirement, and this had taken them and their two sons to the other side of the country some thirty odd years before. Despite many efforts on her daughter’s behalf, all to no avail, Mary had refused point blank to up sticks and move. She had been widowed almost forty years and couldn’t bring herself to leave behind the memories of her darling husband Teddy. Now both her dear Sylvia and son in law James had passed away ten years ago or more. Such was the curse of living to a great old age.

“What a wonderful surprise visit Edward. I wish I could switch on a light to see you better. It’s cold in here because the power is off.

I can’t get you a cup of tea either.

But this is just so lovely - now wait a minute. Yes, turn towards the window, yes, you do... you look just like your grandfather when he was younger!” She sat down heavily into her chair. “He would have been so proud of you!”

Edward laughed softly and turned towards the table. He reached out and picked up the cracker. “I’ve come to pull this cracker with you.

You can’t do it on your own, can you darling?”

Mary squeezed her eyes tightly shut and then opened them to try and see more clearly. She felt her heart race in her chest with excitement and a tight pain gripped hold of her. A warm glow spread within her body; warmth she hadn’t felt for many years and then her coldness fell away like pieces of broken ice. She held out her hand to take hold of the cracker. She could see Edward very clearly now and she smiled. The cracker fell to the floor as Edward took hold of Mary’s hands and gently pulled her up out of the chair.

“Shall we take a walk out into the snow my love? You won’t need a coat” Mary smiled and nodded. She stretched up on tiptoe to tenderly kiss her darling Teddy.

29

The Bull’s Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Xmas EVE: JOHN STACEY (Vocalist with Quitar) New Years Eve: THE MARTINS (Rock & Roll Eve)

Old Thatched Inn, Stanton.

T: 01530 242460 FUN Christmas QUIZ Wed 22 Dec: £50 Cash Prize 8.30pm.Start 50p per Entry.

EVERY WED: - QUIZ Night & ‘PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT’ 8.30pm.Cash prizes 50p per Entry.

Pool Table.(See Ad Page 19)

The Red Lion Main Street, Markfield.

Home of the Markfield Football Team Screen SPORT/ Darts & Pool

The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield.

T: 01530 242 496 Sat 18 Dec: LYNN Singing New Y.Eve: DAVE’S DISCO ’Take Your Pick’ ~ 50p a ticket Every Fri: 7.15-7.45pm.

Ongoing Jackpot (Min £25) ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN

The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite – Thursdays www.bricklayersarms.net (See Advert Page 27)

The Club, Thornton Main Street.

T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members Sat 4 Dec: SNATCH Classic Rock Mon 6 Dec: XMAS Lights Switch on & CAROLS round the Tree Sat 11 Dec: WHAT IT WAS Fri 17 Dec: PLUG & PLAY Eve (Backline & Drums Set up) Sat 18 Dec: MOJO HAND Band Sun 19 Dec: Children’s XMAS Party 3-5pm. Free for Accompanied Members’ Children (See Notice Board) Fri 24 Dec: DIRTY WATER www.myspace.com/thorntonclub

The Red Lion Inn 933 Loughborough Road, Rothley, LE7 7NJ T: 0116 230 2488 QUIZ NITE – Thurs 9pm

Bagworth WMC Station Road, Bagworth T: 01530 230 205 New Members Welcome Sat 4 Dec: MR ‘D’ Sat 11 Dec: GET RHYTHM Sat 18 Dec: The SINNERMANS Fri 24 Dec: XMAS EVE DISCO/BUFFET in Small Room Sun 26 Dec: BOXING DAY DISCO/Big Room from 12 noon.

(N.B. No Sequence Dancing) Fri 31 Dec: NEW YEARS Eve £5 a Ticket includes BUFFET with ETHAN DANIELS in Big Room.

Also MICK in Lounge FREE! Sun 2 Jan: SEQUENCE Dancing Sat 8 Jan: CHRIS ROBIN Sat 15 Jan: MICK KNIGHT Last Fridays: ANDY’S CHARITY QUIZ. £1.50 each.(+ usual Tea & Sequence Dances) The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tributes & Entertainment Sat 4 Dec: ELVIS & Neil Diamond Wed 8 Dec: DISCO Party Fri 10 Dec: UB40 Sat 11 Dec: MOTOWN Wed 15 Dec: DISCO Party Fri 17 Dec: BON JOVI Sat 18 Dec: ABBA Wed 22 Dec: JULIA’S Party Fri 24 Dec: DISCO Party Quiz Nite: Every 2nd Tues (See Advert Page 33)

The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sat 11 Dec & Boxing Night (’King of the Road’) SPECIAL QUIZ Nite:Sun 19 Dec: LOROS Charity QUIZ & RAFFLE 9pm Start.

Sundays: QUIZ Night Play Area/Beer Garden (See Advert On Right >>>) The Flying Horse Little Shaw Lane, Markfield.

T: 01530 245 610 Sat 18 Dec: XMAS PARTY With a 4 Course Meal In Aid of LOROS - £25 a Ticket ’CHERISH’ Female Trio – Performing songs from Musicals.

The Stamford Arms Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 5616.

Every SUN 3 ~ 6pm:Sun 5 Dec: The Acemen 3-6pm Sun 12 Dec: MOJO HAND Sat 18 Dec: AINT MIS-BEHAVIN Sun 19 Dec: TIME-OUT 3-6pm Fri 24 Dec: £3 a Ticket (Xmas Eve) Sun 26 Dec: THE ACEMEN Afternoon 12-3pm HANGOVER Breakfast Served 12-3pm.(‘Trad. English’) Fri 31 Dec: STONEPARK - £5 aTicket.

(New Year’s Eve) Tues 28 Dec: DARTS Competition Registration 4pm Start 4.30pm – FINAL Mid-Eve ‘ish. Cash prize.

Sun 16 Jan: Aint Mis-Behavin 3-6pm KARAOKE ~ Every Wed OPEN MIC ~Every Thurs QUIZ – General Knowledge + Find the Joker ~ EVERY Sun QUIZ – Music ~ EVERY Tues

ANSTEY & DISTRICT FUNERAL SERVICES

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 3rd Saturday of every month in the catering suite at Anstey & District Funeral Services between 10am and 12noon.

Next dates: Sat 18th December & Sat 15th January 2011 ARRAN BRUDENELL, Tel: 0116 234 0548

The Plough Inn Burroughs Road, RATBY. T: 0116 239 2103 EVERY Tues ~ QUIZ

My mind not only wanders, sometimes it leaves completely.

30

We need blood for all sorts of reasons

Give blood Wednesday 19th January 2011 13.00 - 15.30 and 17.00 - 20.00 Community and Sports Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield

To make an appointment please call 0300 123 23 23 For your nearest venue type your postcode into

visit blood.co.uk

or call 0300 123 23 23

Loads happening at CONKERS!

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C

hristmas and New Year at Conkers, in the heart of the National Forest, is set to be a festive one, with a whole host of exciting, seasonal events taking place.

with some mulled wine and marvel at the fire juggling. Children will get a present from Santa himself, along with a Conkers Christmas cookie.

There are 12 dates to choose from and pre-booking of a timed-visit is essential.

Winter Wonderland

During December, Christmas party nights are being held at the Waterside Centre, allowing groups and individuals to celebrate in style, with a mouth-watering, four-course menu. Revellers can dance the night away with Conkers’ resident DJ, with all of the Christmas party favourites on the playlist. Early dates have already sold-out, however, tickets remain for the parties on Friday 17th - which includes a disco and live band - and Saturday 18th December with disco only.

There’s Winter Wonderland from Saturday, 27th November, through to Thursday, 23rd December, where families are taken on an Elf-led tour of the snow-covered Enchanted Forest.

Once there, visitors will be able to meet Santa and his reindeer in an authentic antique Norwegian log chalet, try some hot minced pies and roasted chestnuts, sing along with the carol singers, warm themselves

Party Nights

Pantomime This Christmas, Pantomime is in abundance at Conkers, with the old favourite, Cinderella, being performed in the Discovery Centre on the 18th December (tickets required). Later in the month, both the classic pantos, Snow White and A Christmas Carol will be performed every day in the Waterside Centre from the 27th December through to the 2nd of January - completely free for visitors paying the normal cost of admission.

Carols by Candlelight To really get into the Christmas mood, Carols by Candlelight, held in the Waterside Amphitheatre, on Thursday 23rd December, will offer an exquisite concert of beautiful carols and seasonal music performed by the Ibstock Brick Brass Band in a

fantastic candle-lit style setting. The event is outdoors, so guests will need to wrap up warm, although there will be hot mince pies and drinking chocolate included.

New Year’s Day Brunch On New Year’s Day, a special brunch will be served at the Waterside Centre to mark the start of the new year and give mums and dads the day off from cooking and the chance for the whole family to explore the grounds of the Waterside Centre. This event requires prebooked tickets.

For further information please visit the Conkers website at :

www.visitconkers.com

Charity Christmas Quiz & Raffle at the Coach & Horses There will be a Christmas Quiz & Raffle at the Coach & Horses, Leicester Road, Field Head, Near Markfield on 19th December at 9pm.

The event is in aid of LOROS, and donations of prizes for the raffle would be very gratefully received.

I work hard because millions on welfare depend on me.

31

Sing Christmas with BBC Radio Final chance for children to vote for their favourite book Leicester SING CHRISTMAS with BBC Radio Leicester - be part of the largest carol service where you are.

This Christmas community centres, pubs, residential homes, hospitals and prisons have the opportunity to be part of what could be the largest carol service ever in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Tune in to a special SING CHRISTMAS community carol service, broadcast live by BBC Radio Leicester from the Everards pub - The Bull’s Head, Cosby (not Fosse Park Food Court) on Thursday 21 December 2006 at 7pm.

So would you like to help create the largest ever carol service in Leicestershire and Rutland?

Download the full details of the Carol service from the BBC Radio Leicester website to photocopy or print for your venue, or to join in at home!

Churches are also invited to help stage the service in a community venue in their area.

Everyone will be able to celebrate the real meaning of Christmas by going along to one of the simultaneous local carol services hosted by community venues – all linked together by the live broadcast from The Bull’s Head, Cosby.

Lots of venues have registered for Sing Christmas so far including Markfield Court Nursing Home, Ratby Lane, Markfield and Mayflower Court, Mayflower Close, Markfield.

There are just two weeks left for Leicestershire children to vote for their favourite book and be in with a chance of winning some fantastic prizes! This is part of Leicestershire County Council’s Library Services’ 2010 Children’s Book Prize.

Library staff and local authors have been helping to promote the prize in schools and libraries across the county for the last two months and hundreds of children have been reading the titles from the shortlist. They now have until December 17th to vote for their favourite either at their local library or online at: www.leics.gov.uk/childrensbookprize The schools that generate the most votes will have the chance to win £200 worth of new books and host the prize giving event in the New Year The aim of the prize is to promote reading for pleasure and to widen reading choices for younger readers by increasing their awareness of recently published books written by real authors.

The books being considered for the prize are: • The Pirate’s Treasure by Emily Bearn • Prison Break – Spy Pups by Andy cope • The Dunderheads by Paul Fleischman • Madame Pamplemousse and her incredible edibles by Rupert Kingfisher • Dirty Bertie – Loo! by Alan MacDonald • Charlie and the haunted tent by Hilary McKay • Time train to the Blitz by Sophie McKenzie • Ghost Goblins by David Melling • The Story of Matthew Buzzington by Andy Stanton • Iggy and Me by Jenny Valentine For more information please contact: Maggie Boyd, Development Librarian at maggie.boyd@leics.gov.uk or tel: 0116 305 3833

Cryptic Quiz Answers 1.

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8.

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Father Christmas Reindeer Snow Decorations Three Wise Men Carols Crackers Halle Berry Sleigh Crib Star Cards Robin Pudding Stable Turkey Queens Speech Mince pies Fairy lights Tinsel

Thank Dickens for Christmas as you know it!

Ever wonder where many of our Christmas traditions come from? A surprising amount can be traced back to the wellloved story of ‘A Christmas Carol’, by Charles Dickens.

When you read ‘A Christmas Carol’, you discover almost a template of the ‘ideal Christmas’ which we still hold dear today. Dickens seems to have selected the best of the Christmas celebrations of his day (he ignored some of the odd excesses) and packaged them in such a way as to give us traditions that we could accommodate and treasure – more than a century later.

So, for instance, in A Christmas Carol, Christmas is a family day, with a family-centred feast. In a home decorated with holly and candles the characters enjoy a roast turkey, followed by Christmas pudding.

They give their loved ones presents.

Scrooge even gives donations to charity (!). And all the while outside, there is snow and frost, while church bells ring, and carol singers sing, and hope for mulled wine. In ‘A Christmas Carol’ there is even a Father Christmas – in the shape of Christmas Present. Only the Christmas tree itself came later, when Prince Albert imported ‘a pretty German toy’ that won the heart of the English court, and hence the rest of Victorian society.

Anstey & District Funeral Service Independent Family-Run Funeral Directors

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

• •

• • • •

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

I generally avoid temptation unless I can’t resist it.

32

Gadget

Wordsearch I simply must have one of those! find 12 GADGETS THAT PEOPLE WOULD LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS in the Wordsearch puzzle below, and you could win yourself a nice prize.

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 and a SECOND PRIZE of:

A pair of Adult Tickets to see a film at the REEL CINEMA in Loughborough To go into the draw for the prizes, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - 12 gadgets that people might like to find in their Christmas stocking this year. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!).

Send your entry to: gadget mad!, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Friday 31st December 2010. Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s brand new Snood will win the Meal for Two, and the second will win the Cinema Tickets. Good luck!

Here are the 12 GADGETS you have to find: AMAZON KINDLE • APPLE IPAD • BLU RAY PLAYER WordCAR Search Puzzle• DESKTOP COMPUTER NAVIGATION DIGITAL CAMCORDER • DIGITAL CAMERA HD TELEVISION • LAPTOP COMPUTER • MOBILE PHONE NINTENDO WII • SONY PLAY STATION

R U E R E Y A L P Y A R U L B S

R E T U P M O C P O T K S E D O

L D D P F B I D C T B A Z N N N

M A T R V W E Y V T M A O I O Y

O P P D O E G W H A G I E I I P

B I N T L C C F Z K T Y I X S L

I E M L O C M O B A C W M O I A

L L P Y G P N A G P O Y D A V Y

E P I O F K C I C D N U S Z E S

P P H Z I C V O N L Q C Z V L T

H A T N A A V E M B A H B F E A

O R D V N Q T F S P W T K V T T

N L M R K N O X R F U L I O D I

E V A D I F P T D E L T I G H O

Z C A N B G C Q V E F X E L I N

D I G I T A L C A M E R A R U D

The other day, whilst soaking in the bath, I had a startling idea.

The Irish government has just been loaned umpteen billions of Euros by various countries in the European Union. The amount of cash slips my mind the numbers these days are too large for mere mortals like me to understand - but I do recall that the interest rate being charged on the loan was around 5.5 per cent.

Earlier that day, an elderly caller to a radio show I was listening to was bemoaning the fact that the current low interest rates available to savers - particularly OAPs was having a bad effect on the economy. He said that people on fixed incomes - such as pensioners - relied on the interest earned by their savings to supplement their pension. But he went on to say that the measly 0.5% or so being offered by banks and building societies was an insult.

In my ‘Eureka!’ moment, I came up with the idea of pensioners lending their savings to the Irish government.

The government would receive the cash it needs to function properly, and OAPs around the UK would get a handsome 5.63% on their savings.

The pensioners would become more affluent, and spend more money than they would have ordinarily done, which would stimulate the economy and help businesses grow again. A win-win situation, and happiness all around!

Can it really be this easy? Am I an economic genius? Or do the ‘powers that be’ want to keep all the decent interest rates for themselves?

Page

IS FRED RIGHT? Has he stumbled on a solution to the worldwide economic crisis? Should Senior Citizens become moneylenders to the global economy? Has your Grandma got a couple of billion stashed under her mattress? TELL US WHAT YOU THINK by writing to: BANK OF GRAN, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or email your thoughts to: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

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

 AMAZONKINDLE Address: ................................................................................................

APPLEIPAD ..............................................................................................................

BLURAYPLAYER CARNAVIGATION ..............................................

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

DESKTOPCOMPUTER DIGITALCAMCORDER The first correct entry drawn out of the hat last month came from: DIGITALCAMERA MRS. JENNY GEE of Exmoor Close, Ellistown. Congratulations! Your Meal HDTELEVISION & Wine Voucher to spend at the Field Head Hotel will be sent to you in the next 21 days. The second correct entry drawn out came from MRS. BREWIN of LAPTOPCOMPUTER Jacqueline Road, Markfield. Congratulations! Your Pair of Adult Tickets to see a MOBILEPHONE film at The Reel Cinema in Loughborough will be sent to you in the next 21 days.

NINTENDOWII SONYPLAYSTATION

Last month’s winners!

I was at a bar nursing a beer. My nipple was getting quite soggy.

33

Markfield NHW Update from Alex Ritchie Congratulations Having been told by some Herald readers that my last update showed clear signs of my severe despair regarding ongoing matters it pleases me to, hopefully, be more upbeat on this occasion. First of all I would like to congratulate our local youngsters whose behaviour over Halloween and Fireworks evenings was typical of Markfield and Field Head – First Class – and, once again, their Mums, Dads, Grannies and Granddads can be proud of them. I know our local Police are and, talking of whom, I would like also to congratulate our local Sgt Timms on his promotion to Inspector. Well done Nick!

Continuing down the same line it would be remiss of me not to thank local Police Officer Harlock for the very interesting and informative contribution she made to our recent Annual General Meeting – a real credit to the Force and very much one of the reasons I now have little fear that the forthcoming communication system changeover will not have the quite the disruptive effect I clearly feared.

In other words, I am confident our weekly updates will continue to be circulated directly to all street coordinators, appear in our page of the Markfield and Field Head Villages’ web site plus, of course, the Markfield Library notice board.

Registration There is still some ongoing doubt about the need and/or value of all our local coordinators having to re-register with the new communication regime. It is a simple process to do if a computer email user while non email users can have registrations done on their behalf by myself, other committee members or even any email user relative, friend or neighbour. There is no mad rush as the change over is not due to take place until late January and, in any case, our local group are already registered and definitely recognised by the Police as an organised and active part of the County and National N.W. organisation.

Public Liability Insurance This is one aspect that does cause concern as future national funding is uncertain although cover is definitely in place until the end of March. I have made various enquiries regarding possible options thereafter should we find ourselves faced with the need to arrange our own insurance and have just received the following message from our existing insurers: “At this stage, I have to say that we have had no intimation from

the Home Office either way, but we have certainly asked for clarification regarding their intentions post-31st March 2011. I am sure that the N&HW Network is also in close contact with the Home Office on this. If the funding continues in some adequate form, and if we are asked to continue to administrate the scheme, then we will of course be doing so and will advise all NHWs of the arrangements for 2011. Failing that, it would certainly be our intention to make other arrangements for NHWs to be able to purchase suitable insurance individually or by areas, such that they are able to continue without interruption to their cover.

And as you rightly say, it would need to be at a cost which is easily affordable for NHW’s.”

It is now a question of “Wait and See” although, if we have to pay our own insurance plus fulfil our intention to buy some more street signs then do not be surprised if you note a flurry of “Coffee Morning Bring and Buy” fund raising efforts in the New Year. If so please come along and give your support. Oh. and if you have any suggestion where any new sign could be advantageously sited please let us know – 245908 – and if I am out just leave me a message or ring Chairman Peter – 245805.

Finally – Some Good Action and Subsequent Advice.

Recently one of our observant members became rather worried regarding the disappearance of a neighbour. He had made enquiries of other neighbours who were equally mystified especially as, by then, some days had passed since she was last seen. He contacted the Police and enquiries were underway and reaching a stage of serious concern when she suddenly reappeared having been off on holiday little realising the worry she had caused.

All’s well etc. of course but I do congratulate our member for the action he took and concern he showed and I know it will not happen again as far as this particular lady is concerned. (He has her mobile tel number now).

However please, anyone planning to go off and leave your home unoccupied, let your local trusted friends, neighbours or relatives know your plans and contact detail before you go and thus avoid causing unnecessary worry and concern and also, in so doing, have the benefit of knowing that your property is being watched and guarded.

That, I believe, is something called Neighbourhood Watch.

My husband says I never listen to him (at least I think that’s what he said) .

34

Church Service Information St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Markfield

Sunday 16th January 10.30 am Family Service

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 12th December 10.15 am Nativity Service at the Congregational Church 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Sunday 23rd January 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 30th January 10.30 am Single Service at St Peter’s, Thornton

St Peter’s Church, Thornton Sunday 12th December 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 19th December 6.00 pm Lessons and Carols

Sunday 19th December 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Lessons and Carols Christmas Eve 6.00 pm Christingle - very popular service for the whole family 11.30 pm Midnight Communion Sunday 26th December 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield at Trinity Methodist Church 6.00 pm Joint Evening Praise Service at St Peter’s, Copt Oak

Christmas Eve 4.00 pm Christingle- very popular service for the whole family 11.30 pm Midnight Communion Sunday 26th December 10.30 am Single Service Sunday 2nd January 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 9th January 10.30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 2nd January 10.30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 16th January 9.00 am Holy Communion

Sunday 9th January 10.15 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Sunday 23rd January 10.30 am Family Service Sunday 30th January 10.30 am Single Service

Sunday 16th January 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield at St Michael’s Church 6.00 pm Evening Prayer

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth

Sunday 23rd January 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Evening Service

Please note: This service will be at Bagworth Community Centre Sunday 2nd January 9.00 am Holy Communion

Sunday 30th January 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Joint Evening Service

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak Sunday 12th December 9.15 am Holy Communion

Sunday 12th December 10.30 am Morning Service

Tuesday 14th December 7.30 pm Young Farmers Carols Service

Sunday 19th December 6.00 pm Lessons and Carols

Sunday 19th December 6.00 pm Lessons and Carols

Christmas Eve 4.00 pm Christingle- very popular service for the whole family

Christmas Eve 9.00 pm Midnight Communion

Christmas Day 10.30 am Benefice Christmas Day Holy Communion Sunday 26th December 10.30 am Single Service at St Peter’s, Thornton

Sunday 26th December 6.00 pm Joint Evening Praise Service

Sunday 30th January 6.00 pm Joint Evening Service at St Michael’s, Markfield

Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield Sunday 5th December – 2nd Sunday in Advent 10.30 am Morning Worship 6.00 pm Evening Worship Sunday 12th December – 3rd Sunday in Advent 10.30 am Morning Worship 4.00 pm Café Church Worship Sunday 19th December – 4th Sunday in Advent 10.30 am Morning Communion Service 6.00 pm Evening Carol service Christmas Eve 24th December 11.15 pm Communion Service Christmas Day 25 December 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 26th December No Services Today Sunday 2nd January 10.30 am Morning Communion Service 6.00 pm Evening Service Sunday 9th January 10.30 am Morning Service 3.00 pm Circuit Service at Epworth Methodist Church Sunday 16th January 10.30 am United Churches Together Service at Anglican Church 6.00 pm Evening Communion Service

Cross Hills Baptist Church (Between Bagworth & Thornton)

Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December 10.30am Short informal Service to celebrate The Lord’s birthday Bring your favourite Christmas present, if it’s portable!

Sunday 26th December 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 2nd January 2011 10.30am Morning Service 5.00pm United Praise Service Sunday 9th January 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper Sunday 16th January 10.30am Morning Service There is a Sunday Club in our hall for children & young people during the Morning Service. For further details, our contact list is in the Cross Hills News section in this magazine.

Markfield Congregational Church Sunday 12th December 10.15am - Sunday Club Nativity Sunday 19th December 10.15am - Service of Lessons and Carols

Sunday 5th December 10.30am Morning Service 5.00pm Advent Praise Service

Saturday 25th December 10.15am - Christmas Day Family Service

Sunday 12th December 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper

Sunday 26th December NO SERVICE

Saturday 18th December 7.30pm Carol Service with Marwood Brass Band & a visit by Santa, followed by mince pies, tea & coffee Sunday 19th December 10.30am Family Service with a Christmas presentation from the Sunday Club

Sunday 2nd January 10.15am - Morning Worship Sunday 9th January 10.15am - Family Service followed by Communion Sunday 16th January 10.30am - Churches Together United Service in St Michael’s Anglican Church, Markfield

Sunday 2nd January 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 9th January 9.15 am Holy Communion

Sunday 2nd January 10.30 am Morning Service

Sunday 16th January 3.00 pm Praise Service

Sunday 9th January 10.30 am Morning Service

Sunday 23rd January 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Time is God’s way of keeping everything from happening at once.

35

Herald Film Reviews from Tom Flowitt

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (12A)

Due Date (15) Starring: Robert Downey Jr and Zach Galifianakis 95 minutes

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint 145 minutes

When we left Harry and co in the last film all was not well at Hogwarts. Things don’t get much better here for the trio either as they must evade the dark forces hunting them down whilst trying to destroy the remaining Horcruxes that will finally defeat Lord Voldemort.

For the most part this doesn’t feel like a Harry Potter film. The series has been going from strength to strength but this is not to the same standard of the last two films. The decision to turn the last book into two films isn’t justified as there isn’t enough action throughout. This is more of a prelude than a part 1.

When the series began in 2001 it was aimed at a young audience.

The series has certainly grown up since then with the latest instalment much darker than the rest. The acting still has some cringe worthy moments but this has always been part of the charm.

Overall: Another must see film for Harry Potter fans but it isn’t as accessible as previous films for those who aren’t. A good film just not a great one.

3 stars PPP

Peter Highman (Downey Jr) is heading home to his wife for the birth of his first child. Things don’t go exactly to plan when a chance meeting with Ethan Tremblay (Galifianakis) gets him on the ‘no fly’ list.

Peter must then embark on a road trip across America he will never forget.

This is a comedy with more sophisticated laughs than your average. Some of the comedy is still very crude but there is plenty of laugh out loud moments to keep you entertained. There are however a number of touching moments between the two characters which seem out of place within the film.

Robert Downey Jr again makes acting look effortless and brings real class to the film. Galifianakis is exactly the same character as he was in The Hangover but it works really well in this film.

Overall: A clever if at times crude comedy that really hits the spot.

One of the best comedies of the year.

4 stars PPPP

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

~ Forthcoming Events ~ Saturday, 4th December - The Palace Christmas Craft and Gift Fair from 10.00am until 3.00pm. FREE ADMISSION. A large variety of interesting stalls and a great opportunity for Christmas shopping!

Saturday 4th December – ‘The Opera Dudes’ -The essence of an Opera Dude show is ‘Expect The Unexpected!’. A glorious combination of top quality singing and music-making sit alongside slapstick comedy, ridiculous impressions and audience participation. Tickets: £5 from Halls, High Street, Ibstock.

Friday, 10th December - IBSTOCK CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL and GRAND PARADE. Santa’s Palace Grotto from 4pm - 5pm. The Grand Parade with Santa and Friends on an open top bus led by Ibstock Scout Band from St Denys Church at 7.00pm to arrive at The Palace, High Street, Ibstock at 7.30pm. Santa’s Palace Grotto from 7.30 -9pm. Inside The Palace: Ibstock Brick Brass Band playing Christmas Carols and seasonal music. Seasonal Refreshments. Behind The Palace: Children’s rides and stalls.

Saturday, 11th December - A Nativity Play and Christmas Entertainment by Local Children. Starts at 11am – FREE ADMISSION – Seasonal refreshments.

Saturday, 11th December - Christmas Social Dance at The Palace Community Centre, High Street, Ibstock from7.30pm – 11pm. Latin, Ballroom, Sequence

Jive, Rock’n’Roll and Salsa. Doors and Licensed bar open at 7.00pm. Tickets: £5 available from Halls, High Street, Ibstock.

Friday, 17th December - Christmas Film Night – ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’. This 1946 American film stars James Stewart as George Bailey, a man whose imminent suicide on Christmas Eve brings about the intervention of his guardian angel, Clarence Odbody. Clarence shows George all the lives he has touched and the contributions he has made to his community. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm.Tickets: Halls, High Street, Ibstock. Tickets: £4/£3.

Friday, 31st December - Bookings are now being taken for The Palace New Years Eve Party. A fabulous party night with the amazing Ann-Marie as ‘Tina Turner’ and ‘Cher’. Party starts at 8.00pm.

Doors and Licensed bar open at 7.30pm.

Tickets £20.00, including buffet, available from Halls, High Street, Ibstock.

Friday, 14th January 2011 – ‘Shoo Shoo Baby’ presents ‘The Entire History of Cabaret’ in association with Centre Stage supported by The Arts Council, England.

‘Shoo Shoo Baby’ is the effortlessly funny musical double act of Anna Braithwaite and Tanya Holt.Starts at 8.00pm. Tickets: £5.00 from Halls, High Street, Ibstock,

Tickets from Halls Electrical, High Street, Ibstock. 01530 260460.

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