December 2015 herald online

DECEMBER 2015

LET’S CELEBRATE! ON DECEMBER 5TH, 6th & 7th Markfield Methodist Church is holding a festival celebrating Christmas traditions both religious & secular.

There will be twenty trees/displays, one of which is a knitted Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. This has to be seen!

Opening times are: Saturday, 10.00 – 4.00, Sunday, 12.00 – 4.00 and Monday, 9.30 – 12.00.

Admission is free and refreshments will be served throughout with soup & roll on offer on Saturday from 12.00 to 1.30. Also on Saturday there will be a cake stall, chocolate tombola, raffle and “Guess Teddy’s Birthday”.

Come & Sing Carols!

HERE’S another opportunity to get into the festive spirit.

Join us at the festival on Saturday 5th between 2.30 and 3.30 and choose your favourite carol to sing in an informal café setting.

We look forward to seeing you sometime over the weekend.

For all the family Monday 21st December Bagworth Community Centre 4.00-5.30pm

children of all ages - get a parent, friend grandparent or neighbour to bring you There will be lots of things to

Celebrate Boxing Day and Plough Sunday with Red Faces!

AS ANOTHER year moves towards its end, why not celebrate Christmas and the coming of the new year by joining Red Leicester Morrismen at their annual winter events.

On Boxing Day they will be appearing at The Griffin Inn, Swithland from around 12 noon to perform centuries-old dances from the Welsh Borders, designed to help move winter on its way and eventually bring back the sun!

On Plough Sunday, the first Sunday of the year (3rd January 2016) they will dance in Bradgate Park and Newtown Linford before moving to Markfield where the first show will be on The Green by the Church. They will move on in procession to Croftway to be welcomed by local residents, then toil up the hill to The Bull’s Head for another blast of dancing. The session will be rounded off inside the pub with a rare performance of the only known traditional Leicestershire wooing play – a real delight with characters including Tom Fool, the Recruiting Sergeant and Beelzebub! It’s all good fun, and all are welcome to come along. As tradition dictates, the collecting pot will be put round with all money going to charity. Last year Leicester Morrismen gave nearly £2500 to various good causes so please come and help us do it again.

Times as follows: 26 December 12.00 Swithland: The Griffin 3 January 11.15 Newtown Linford: Bradgate Park

12.00 The Linford 12.45 Markfield: The Church

1.30 Croftway

2.15 The Bull’s Head

Pete Johnson

Refreshments provided including Mulled wine, fruit drinks and mince pies Children must be accompanied by an adult Organised by Holy Rood Church and the Benefice of Markfield, Thornton, Bagworth, Stanton under Bardon and Copt Oak

Luke Jackson Charity - 2015 The 2015 year end payments will take place as follows: • BAGWORTH COMMUNITY CENTRE: December 12th - 10am to 12 noon.

• THORNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE: December 12th - 10am to 12 noon.

To qualify, you must have been resident in the village for at least 12 months and be in receipt of State Retirement Pension. Previous applicants must still be residents of the village. New applicants should bring the necessary proof of eligibility. A letter of consent should be brought if collecting on behalf of other people.

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 16th January- Adverts & Articles Needed By 2nd January

2

£1.4 million now available to boost local businesses

Carolling around the Christmas tree!

A NEW scheme, aimed at boosting the rural economy across Hinckley & Bosworth and North Warwickshire, has officially been launched.

The two councils have secured £1.416 million of European funding through the LEADER Programme (2015-2019). LEADER is part of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) and is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

Around 40 local businesses and organisations attended the launch event at Bosworth Hall Hotel to find out more about the funding available. The event was followed by an opportunity for people to discuss potential ideas with the LEADER project team.

The money will be allocated to businesses, groups or organisations that can demonstrate a benefit to the local rural economy. To be successful, applications must contribute to the creation of jobs or the development of businesses in the rural areas.

The Chair of the Local Action Group (LAG), Sharon Earp, is an active member of the Hinckley and Bosworth Tourism Partnership and Leicestershire Tourism Partnership and runs her own award-winning tourism business. Sharon said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded the funding, and are confident that it will make a real difference to the longevity, sustainability and success of the rural economy in this wonderful area”.

The first call for applications for funding, which opened on 16 November 2015, is for projects from farmers, foresters and small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. The deadline for outline applications in this first round is 4 January 2016.

Further applications to deliver projects relating to rural services, tourism, cultural and heritage activities will be invited from next year.

To discuss a potential project idea or to receive an outline application form, contact the LEADER Programme Team at North Warwickshire Borough Council, on 01827 719356 or email: leaderproject@northwarks. gov.uk. Alternatively visit the Facebook page at: /NWHBLEADER

ON A VERY wet and rather windy Friday night intrepid villagers and friends gathered on the green in Markfield to sing carols and celebrate the ‘switch on’ of the lights on the Christmas Tree.

This was the first time that we had gathered to watch and sing and the Parish Council and organisers were unsure how many people would turn up. In the event over thirty people sang lustily despite the weather and the soggy carol sheets! Right on cue, at 7.30 the lights came on and those present cheered in delight, and possibly relief! After singing one or two more carols, everyone repaired to the Methodist church hall for mince pies and mulled apple juice – and to dry out and get warm! It was a great way for the people of the village to meet together and start the Christmas festivities in earnest. Many thanks go to all involved! Everyone was delighted with the turnout and we will certainly be repeating this event next year!

CINEMAGOERS: Have consideration for pirate DVD viewers by using the toilet before the film starts.

3 CRAFTY BUT CLEVER

Good year for the nimble fingered!

THIS HAS BEEN another good year for the Crafty Group at Markfield Court Retirement Village, where our Nimble Fingered Members have been enthusiastically working to help others and enjoy each other’s company with tea and biscuits (and sometimes cakes as well!).

ASHLEY DYSON General Builder & Contractor

Output this year – Apart from the occasional jumper, scarf and gloves most of the time we have been busy producing items that are requested or needed by our partner groups in and around Leicester. The list of requests for support is long for the UK but our own partners include: Age UK Leicester; Leicester Neonatal Unit; Dementia Support LHT. Items made include special baby hats for use in the Neonatal Unit; ADAPT triangles; blankets; cardigans; “Innocent Smoothie” bottle hats, small soft knitted toys and ‘fidget’ blankets for the ederly. Output amounts to several hundreds of items. In previous years we have had to deal with the individual groups but have now got the services of Alison and Fiona, Co-ordinators of the Placement and Volounteer Service Teams in Leicester, who liaise with us directly and most of our end user groups. This has improved the logistics of getting the goods to the users quite considerably and we are grateful for their support.

Because many of the items “travel home” or stay with the individual recipients there is an ongoing need for items and our team of Crafty Ladies find the whole experience both a rewarding pleasure and therapeutic with the benefits of education (teaching skills to others), friendship and social contact. It’s always a pleasure to help others – it’s what Community is all about.

We wish all of our User Partners and our Neighbours in Markfield a Merry Christmas and a Peaceful 2016 If you would like more information about the group or have unwanted yarn we can use, please contact Tina by email at tinabertram@hotmail.co.uk, or pop into our Social Centre any Monday or Friday afternoon between 1.30 and 4pm .

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5 Bagworth CCT

County Councillor’s Report from David Sprason

Bienvenue, Welcome

Your County Councillor and family wishes you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year MAY I ONCE again take this opportunity to request that should you have an elderly or vulnerable neighbour living on their own over this festive period could you please consider them, are they warm and getting a hot meal? They need your kindness and support.

So it is again the time of year when I reflect on the twelve months and look at what has been achieved; the first of which would be all those who have contacted me for assistance and we have managed to resolve.

A number of Grants given to various local groups and projects across the area have again been secured and appreciated by them. We have seen our local school academies become more independent and beginning to develop strongly. Markfield library saved from closure now with a great team of volunteers running it. The Desford volunteer group are looking to replicate the same outcome for the Desford Library. Despite the huge cuts in the highways budget we have managed to get some of local issues addressed. Speeding & HGVs continues to be a problem and with the assistance of the police we are

attempting to address this. We have seen a number of improvements for the area thanks to the dedicated community groups; these include the continued success of the Bagworth Community Centre, Stanton under Bardon Village Hall and the Desford Good Neighbours scheme.

The difficult decision on funding will be needed to be made by the County Council as Government grant cuts start to have an even greater impact. The efficiency savings made year on year have helped but new saving ideas will continue to be needed so as to tackle the shortfall in central government funding. We are already seeing cuts to services being implemented and will see over the coming years more cuts, increases in service charges and increases in council tax. As your County Councillor I am also fully aware that due to rising household bills family budgets are being squeezed. This is why I am committed to pushing for a freeze in council tax and smaller government which benefits all the population of Leicestershire.

So what will the New Year bring?

Nationally: we have the heightened security due to the growing number of extremists, more austerity, continued increases of inward migration, more houses and even greater demand on our

OR RATHER, welcome back. The members of the Bagworth Community Centre Trust are delighted to see Miss Keeely-Anna return to the Centre.

health services.

Locally: we will see some of the planned local improvements being completed which should help improve our local area. We also need to be vigilant as even more new housing developments will be proposed that will need challenging and new charges being introduced for council services.

The future to maintain the current services over the next four years is uncertain as Government funding will continue to be cut. As in previous years the settlement received from Government plus any increases in Council Tax will not meet the growing demand for services. We will continue to lobby Central Government to return funding to local areas rather than increasing non UK funding. We need a sensible settlement from government that meets the needs of a growing elderly population and the needs of the local residents of Leicestershire.

I would like to finish off by taking the opportunity to thank all those people and the Parish Councils who have given me their support and assistance over the last year. I will continue to try to represent you all to the best of my abilities in 2016 and continue to try and get our fair share of tax back which will actually enhance and benefit our local area.

May Sue, my family and I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Letter

Idea for co-ordinating local events Is there anyone, or any organisation, who would be willing to organise a system which could be used to co-ordinate events in the villages covered by the Herald?

When we lived in North Yorkshire, we took the region’s newspaper, the Northern Echo. Every January, they would publish ‘Claiming Dates’ which was a list of events with dates and venueswhich could be altered or expanded as the year progressed.

This was updated and published every so often. It prevented the clashing of events such as seen in November when Thornton, Stanton-under-Bardon and Copt Oak all had a Christmas Fayre on the same day, November 14th.

Of course there was no compulsion to change dates, but at least the organisers knew that it was unlikely that they would attract visitors from a nearby village and could contact each other to reach an agreement as to who did what and when.

Eileen Johnson, Bagworth

In the new year on Mondays she is taking dance classes. For 2-5 year olds there will be ‘Dancing Tots’ from 3.45 to 4.15 pm. ‘Funky Kidz 1’ is for 6 – 8 year olds running from 4.30 to 5.15 pm. For 9 year olds and over there is ‘Funky Kidz 2’ from 5.15 to 6 pm. It is pay as you dance, but there are limited places for each class. To book a place text ‘BFDANCE’ with the child’s name and age to 07500 554736.

All of the usual classes will continue in the new year after a Christmas break. If you have ideas for different classes/ events, or you would like to run one, please contact the Trust. We never say ‘no’ to offers of help.

News from Bardon Park Chapel www.bardonchapel.co.uk

Worship Service: Every Sunday morning at 10.30 am.

Our gatherings are fairly informal.

Everyone most welcome.

The Monthly Praise Meeting: (1st Saturday in each month, except August and January) at 3.00pm. Come and enjoy a lively time of singing, encouragement, fellowship, testimonies and uplifting messages. Light refreshments afterwards in the school room.

Christmas Carol Service: Sunday, 13th December at 6.30 pm.

Find us at the roundabout at the junction of Shaw Lane (A 511), Bardon Road (A 511) and Beveridge Lane (B 585), take the Leicester-bound (eastbound) carriageway of the A 511 road and the chapel is on the left after about 50 metres. There is a large car park at the back.

For more details on any of the above please contact: Richard Norburn on Tel: 01530 242526.

SCROOGES: Save money at Christmas by returning last year’s cards to the sender with the simple inscription “Same to you”.

6

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

Tel: 01530 244069 info@markfieldherald.co.uk www.markfieldherald.co.uk

The Herald is a monthly local magazine delivered free to approximately 4,000 homes and businesses in Markfield, Field Head, Stanton under Bardon, Thornton and Bagworth.

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

Printed by Norwood Press in Ellistown.

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

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

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

This issue of The Herald is being delivered by The Herald’s team of dedicated deliverers, namely: Sarah Jane, Maureen, John, Lyn, Lily, Ian, Ann, Gill, Sandra, Jeanie, Jenny, Calum, Lisa, Yvonne, Ray, Margaret, Daniel, Jessie, Selina, Charlotte, Mike and Rowan

MARKFIELD MEDICAL CENTRE PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP

MEDICAL SHOPPING LIST FOR CHRISTMAS AS WE APPROACH the festive season and people become very busy with doing lots of nice things, it is easy to forget some of the essentials such as ordering a repeat prescription which then puts extra pressure on our Doctor’s surgery and pharmacist at a very busy time of the year.

So at a PPG meeting we talked about adding the following items to your shopping list for Christmas:• Order your repeat prescription so that you don’t run out of medication over Christmas. The deadline for prescriptions to be at Mason’s pharmacy in order to be dispensed for Christmas is the 17th December.

• Check your home medical supplies – you should always have the following at home:1. Paracetamol/Calpol 2. Rennies 3. Ibuprofen 4. Plasters 5. Thermometer 6. Antiseptic wipes/cream 7. Immodium 8. Lemon/Honey and glycerin 9. Vicks Vapour 10. Strepsils 11. Small basic dressings 12. Steristrips 13. Ice pack 14. Antihistamine Christmas opening times for Markfield Medical Centre Thursday 24th December 8am to 4.00pm Friday 25th December closed Monday 28th December closed Tuesday 29th December 8am to 6.30pm Wednesday 30th December 8am to 6.30 pm Thursday 31st December 8am to 4.00pm Friday 1st January closed On behalf of the PPG we wish you all a very merry Christmas.

Political leaders “Don’t worry about your son, he is set to become a great politician,” the teacher said. The parents were delighted and asked how she could tell.

“Well, he can say more things that sound well and mean nothing at all than anyone else in the class.”

Don’t miss out!

Community groups urged to apply for grants COMMUNITY groups in parishes across the Borough are being encouraged to apply for their share of the Borough Council’s Parish and Community Initiative Fund before applications close on 5 February 2016.

Grants totalling £100,000 per year are awarded to support community projects in the parished areas of the borough. These grants fund a wide variety of projects such as play areas, community buildings, new pathways, heritage trails, and sports facilities.

Grants for 2016/17 will be provided on the following basis: • Projects must be within a parished area of the borough • Maximum of £10,000 per parish area • Maximum of £10,000 per project • Maximum of 50 per cent of total project costs funded • All works must be completed within the financial year • Projects must demonstrate that they meet the council’s corporate aims and that they are of community benefit Councillor Kevin Morrell, the Executive Member responsible for Rural Communities and Environment, said: “As in previous years I would like to see these grants spread as wide as possible, with special emphasis on the smaller organisations as well as parish councils.”

How to apply: Applications forms, guidance notes and general information will be automatically be sent to parish and town councils.

For further copies, or for more information, please contact the Green Spaces Team on 01455 255728 or email GreenSpaces@ hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk

NEXT ISSUE OUT ON 16th January DEADLINE: 2nd January

HORSE WHISPERERS: Speak louder. The animals will hear you more clearly, thus speeding up training times.

7

Thornton councillor thanks Severn Trent

THE COMMUNITY of Thornton has said a big thank you to Severn Trent for fixing the ongoing leak affecting the local basketball court.

The water company saw that the leak, which was situated on private land, was causing an issue for the community and making the court unsafe to use. It wanted to show its support by getting it back up and running for the local children.

When Severn Trent received the letter from parish councillor, Regis Auckland, the team wanted to do something to help and give something back to the community. The team even cleaned the courts and de-weeded the surrounding area to make it more appealing and safer for the local residents.

Emily Cattermole, community and customer liaison officer for Severn Trent, said: “We’re really pleased that we were able to help. We could see that the basketball court was unsafe due to the water leak and although the leak was on private land, we wanted to help get the court back to a good standard, so that it can be enjoyed by the local community for many years to come.”

Regis Auckland, parish councillor, said: “I’d like to express my gratitude and deep appreciation to Stacey Cooper from Severn Trent and also the company’s engineering and cleansing teams for fixing the long running leak at Thornton. The company intervened when they didn’t have to and for this we’re really grateful. All the staff were outstanding, the professionalism, speed and quality of work was better than I could have ever imagined.”

The bump A man who had just undergone a very complicated operation kept complaining about a bump on his head and a terrible headache. Since his operation had been an intestinal one, the nurse was concerned. Finally she spoke to the doctor about it. The doctor assured her, “Don’t worry , he really does have a bump on his head. About halfway through the operation, we ran out of anaesthetic.”

SINGLE MEN: Fool folk into thinking you’ve got a girlfriend by standing outside Topshop with loads of bags.

8

Sell Your Stuff!

HERALD

FREE Small Ads • Pine wood SINGLE BED and MATTRESS - Good condition.

Price: £10.00 Tel: 01530 242558 • Solid Wood DINING TABLE with 6 BLACK LEATHER CHAIRS. Hardly been used in excellent condition.

Price: £200 ono • Wood TV CORNER UNIT with glass doors. Good condition.

Price: £20 Tel 01530 242446 • Boxed board games for sale, most in new condition: BUCKAROO - 4 years & up: £3 MOUSETRAP - 6 years & up: £6.50 Family Electronic BATTLESHIPS - 6 years: £8 LINE UP 4 - 5 years & up: £2.50 CRAYOLA (15 great games to play): £3.50 Land & sky TELESCOPE, with 30x optical lens, table top tripod - 8+ years: £1o Simpsons CHESS SET never used: £8 Four-in-a-Row (5 years & up): £2 MR STINK by David Walliams (9+ years), hardback, unwanted gift: £4 Usbornes Book, HOW YOUR BODY WORKS: £2 Tel: 01530 230670 SEND your Small Ads IN WRITING to: The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or email to: info@markfieldherald. co.uk (please include your address - not for publication).

Don’t forget to send us your news!

Thanks

All the latest news from Markfield WI OCTOBER saw us holding our AGM, always a meeting that is not very well attended in many organisations!

However we bucked the trend and saw a good number of members there to support the committee in their re election! Sadly no ‘new blood’ on the committee and the officers remain the same, ie Fran Johnson President, Lyn Owen Vice Chairman, Jane Barrington Secretary and Margaret Beck Treasurer.

However the existing committee do a great job and there is always next year for some new members. I thanked the committee for all their hard work and the members also showed their appreciation. We have had a busy year with quite a few events to celebrate the centenary of the WI and have also gained new members which seems to indicate that we are doing something right. New members are always welcome and contrary to a belief expressed to one of the committee recently you do not have to be over 55 to join. The only essential qualification you need is to be female, and we do welcome men at some of our social events.

Our speaker for October was from Hospice Hope, a charity serving NW Leicestershire, which supports those who have terminal and debilitating illnesses. Hospice Hope offers drop-in cafes in Coalville, Ashby and Ibstock where people suffering in this way can have the chance to meet, chat over a cuppa and have access to therapists. They are also currently trying raise funds to buy land or property for a day centre. This also provides a chance for carers to have support or some free time. Our speaker was excellent, very professional but also providing some humour and empathy in his approach. We like to support local charities and members responded well by bringing items for the Bring and Buy table and subsequently purchasing many items.

Our November meeting saw Carolyn Boulter helping us to make a patchwork Christmas Tree. This was a lovely evening as Carolyn had prepared the materials very well and gave us clear instructions so that all went home with a stylish decoration. Sitting together round a table also provided a chance to chat and make new friends and as we had some visitors it worked well for them too.

We held two other events in November. Our annual Quiz Evening went well with a challenging quiz compiled and led by Pete, our honorary WI member, and won by one of our regular teams. I think they have been coming since the very first quiz so they deserved to win! The Ploughman’s Supper was also well received so thanks go to the committee and of course thanks to Coalville Rugby Club for allowing us to use their premises. There were lots of cries of ‘see you next year’ as people left so I am sure the event will be repeated once again. If you enjoy a quiz evening why not come along, you can bring your team of six or come alone, in pairs or any number, our treasurer and team organiser is adept at putting people together!

The Knit and Natter Group had a stall selling a variety of handmade Christmas decorations and preserves at the Craft Fair in aid of St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak. This raised some funds to help towards the cost of speakers and there will be a further opportunity to purchase these items at the Scout Christmas Fair on Sat, 5th December in Markfield. The Knit and Natter group have also been busy putting together our contribution to the Methodist Church Christmas Festival to be held on the weekend of the 5th/6th December. The theme of the Festival is Christmas Customs but I

am not going to reveal the custom we have depicted with our knitting and crocheting, you will have to come along and see for yourself!

Also in November Margaret Beck and I attended the Leicestershire and Rutland Federation Autumn Lunch at Barnsdale Hall hotel. We had an excellent lunch and the opportunity to chat to WI members around the county. The speaker for this event was Julie Summers author of The Jambusters, a history of how the WI worked to support Britain during the Second World War and the book on which the successful TV series, Home Fires, was based. Julie was fascinating to listen to and also gave us some information on the making of the TV programme and a few hints about the next series.

We now have our programme booked for 2016 and it looks to be interesting and varied. We begin in January with Hugh Mackay, a resident of Markfield, who will be talking to us about Crofters of Scotland. Hugh will be showing a film about Crofters made in 1944 and talking about their way of life then and now. I believe he will also be coming wearing full Highland dress. During the year we will be

Markfield WI Programme 2016 • •

•

• • • • •

•

• •

•

Jan 20th : Hugh Mackay Crofters of Scotland 17th Feb : Kath Reynolds Goose Grease & Brown Paper 16th March: Will Gilding Clarice Cliff, Moorcroft, Lalique & other 20th Treasures 20th April: George Hook Mother of Pearl 18th May: Resolutions Taste and Try 15th June: TBA Meal out 20th July: Canine Partners 17th Aug: Brian Johnson Who do you think lived in a House like this?

21st Sept: David Siddon The Fascination of the English Language 19th Oct : Ali Groschl The Art of Fused Glass 16th Nov: Julie Ede Wonderful, Wicked, Wily Wallis 21st Dec: Ian Rogerson Turkey Talk

covering Clarice Cliff, Moorcroft and Lalique pottery, Mother of Pearl, The Fascination of the English Language, The Art of Fused Glass and Wonderful, Wicked, Wily Wallis plus a few more delights. There will be a Taste and Try evening, a meal out and a visit to Kilworth House Theatre and the possibility of other outings – another busy year ahead I’m sure you will agree. Why not come and visit us, whether you are over or under 55, on the third Wednesday of the month, 7.45pm in the Methodist Church Schoolroom. If you would like any more information please contact Fran Johnson on 01530 243350 or Jane Barrington on 01530 243285.

Fran Johnson

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“Are you light-headed?” my colleague asked.

“No,” the caller answered, “I’m a brunette.”

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Thornton Christmas Concert

Sunday 13th December 3pm – 5pm

* Please be seated for 2.50pm

A cornucopia of musical treats at St. Peter’s church!  Natalie Nightingale  Thornton School Choir  Keely-Anna’s School of Dance

And the organ and bells of St. Peter’s church ! £5 including refreshments and raffle ticket - Under 15’s free Profits will be shared between the Friends of St. Peter’s and Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary

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POLICE MATTERS, AntiSocial behaviour: - Several members were pleased to report that there had been a much higher police presence around the village recently and Mr B Gannon informed the members that officers were now using the Community Office at the Community Centre again. Mrs J Williams stated that PC I Wardle had spoken to parents about car parking at Mercenfeld Primary School to discourage taking local school children to school by car.

Mr T Lockley had received a request from PCSO R Heath for the Parish Council to consider removing the Littlethorpe’s wooden bus shelter from outside Markfield Medical Centre, as it was acting as a beacon for antisocial behaviour, in his opinion.

The members felt strongly that the police should deal with the anti-social behaviour rather than removing the bus shelter to the detriment of members of the public. Mr T Lockley reported that Halloween had been quiet with no incidents of anti-social behaviour reported. He also reported that there had been three arrests recently and the police had taken intervention action against several youths, who were responsible for much of the anti-social behaviour occurring around the village.

A resident of Chitterman Way had emailed the clerk to request help regarding the incidents of anti-social behaviour occurring there; he stated that he had telephoned the police 20 times but the matter still hadn’t been resolved. His concerns had been forwarded onto H & BBC Community Safety Team who would be meeting with the Police to ascertain what action would be taken.

Leicestershire County Council – Urban Grass Cutting: The County Council would be increasing the number

of grass cuts from 5 to 6 in the next financial year.

Christmas lights & tree: The clerk had ordered the works from Utility Com Ltd to lay 40 metres of electric cable in the ground, supply and install column and transformer from existing lighting column to existing Christmas Tree base and forwarded on Mr B Gannon’s questions in order to clarify the scope of the quotation.

Total cost £2140.08 exc. VAT. The clerk had ordered the supply and installation of a 20ft Christmas Tree from CJ Springthorpe at a cost of £625.00 exc. VAT. The clerk had purchased an additional set of white pea lights and transformer from Turnocks Ltd at a cost of £69.00 exc,VAT. New memorial bench on Ratby Lane – The bench had been installed.

Members were concerned about the ever increasing numbers, and the nature of memorials being placed opposite the junction of Ratby lane and London Road.

The clerk should write to LCC Highways regarding the matter.

The Community Partnership Library Service: - Mrs M Bowler reported early indications were good and that all of the volunteers had settled into their posts and they’ve had a really good response from members of the public. The Halloween event went really well so more special events were planned.

Barrow Upon Soar Community Service had visited and Markfield Library Service would be visiting their Library soon, to share good practices and experiences.

Consultation the proposed cuts to Leicestershire Fire Service: Mr D Sprason urged members to respond to the Combined Fire Authority’s Risk Management Plan Consultation.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service received £17.8 million in government grants in 2013/14 but this would be reduced to

Softly A churchwarden went to the Police Station wishing to see the burglar who had slipped in and out of the church during evensong. “You’ll get your chance in court,” said the Desk Sergeant.

“I don’t want revenge,” said the man. “I want to know how he got out of the service early without the vicar noticing. I’ve been trying to do that for years!”

David Smith - 1 The Burrows, Narborough

0116 275 0101 (home) 07880 973 742 (mobile) SAVE electricity by turning off all the lights in your house and walking around wearing a miner’s hat.

11

Extracts from the Unapproved Minutes of the Markfield Parish Meeting held on Tuesday 3rd November 2015 at 8.00pm at the Methodist Chapel, Markfield.

(May be subject to alteration or correction.) £9.1 million by 2019/2020. This meant that the organisation must reduce its’ budget by £1.5 million over the next few years, due to the cuts in funding from central government. Therefore the fire service was consulting on reducing the number of firefighters, fire engines and fire stations but a group of 12 retired senior firefighters said that the current proposals were dangerous. Two fire stations would be closed, Leicester city’s central fire station, in Lancaster Road, and Kibworth fire station, ⅓ fire-fighters jobs would be axed and 11 fire engines would be replaced with three new tactical response vehicles.

The group of retired firefighters had drawn up draft alternatives to the fire service’s proposals and had expressed their concerns over the cuts which they said would put firefighters and members of the public in danger.

Government Funding: Mr D Sprason stated that the Government’s plan to allow local authorities to keep the Business Rates would be offset by the Government’s funding cuts; Leicestershire County Council would break even. Existing Business Rates would have to be kept at the same level but the County Council could charge their own rates for new businesses.

Combined Authorities: Mr D Sprason stated that Leicester City Council and Leicestershire

County Council had put forward proposals to combine, but had been informed that the Combined Authority wasn’t big enough.

Therefore discussions would be taking place with Nottingham and Derby Authorities.

Taylor Wimpey housing development on land south of Jacqueline Road: Mr M Lay stated that the Borough Council’s “5 Year Land Supply” policy had been successfully tested twice now at the Appeal stage; as their decision to refuse planning permission had been upheld.

Although the development was in Groby Parish it would be Markfield’s facilities directly affected by the development and Markfield had already exceeded its 5 year land supply requirement.

It was agreed that the Parish Council in conjunction with Groby Parish Council would look into hiring the services of a Highways Consultant.

HBBC cessation of transferring Local Council Support – The clerk stated that the Parish Council had already lost £3002 New Homes Bonus funding from the Borough Council and now she had been informed that the Borough Council intended to withdraw the Government’s Council Tax Scheme support Grant of £9152 (2015). LRALC had informed Department of Communities and Local Government of this decision and urged Town and

Parish Councils to cover this loss when setting their budgets over the coming weeks. LRALC also recommended that if Precepts have to be raised to cover the loss, the reasons be communicated with our parishioners, as to why this has happened.

Resolved, the Parish Council strongly disagreed with the Borough Council’s decision to withdraw the Council Tax Scheme support Grant from local councils and would make a representation to the Borough Council.

Native Narcissi for Autumn planting British Flora: It was agreed that the preferred locations were for some additional planting on the grass verge at Ratby Lane and London Road, The Greens and Saw Pitts Green.

Mr T Lockley reported that some of the younger Horse Chestnut trees planted on Saw Pitts Green was suffering from Bleeding Canker and would need to be felled.

QUESTIONS TO THE CHAIR: Mrs R Robson informed the members that the Christmas Traditions Festival was to be held on 5th, 6th and 7th December at the Methodist Chapel, Main Street and that this year’s theme would be Christmas bells. Mrs R Robson volunteered to decorate the Parish Council’s Christmas tree this year.

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Merry Christmas to all our readers, advertisers, deliverers and contributors.

Without you, the Herald would not exist. Thanks!

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Markfield’s pub history Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in the Herald AT POINTS in its history Markfield had a good number public houses, at least 8/9 from my reckoning based on what I have been told and many more than may be found in similar size communities (It happened to have the temperance hall to balance things out, which is at last being carefully renovated and has a few stories of its own to tell) Markfield also had a reputation for drinking, particularly of ale/beer or pedigree and it would seem this was very much a local pastime and a key ingredient of the local community.

Today you would not think it and the long tradition of going to the pub which was a feature of community life for generations, has been in steep decline for some time. Not so steep however that I cannot remember the George or the Lion being very busy public houses and part of the link between the Queens Head and The Bulls Head, a sort of mini pub crawl which if you were being adventurous could include the Copt

Oak, Flying Horse or the Shaw Lane club.

In those days people would have a favourite and stick with it and when they got fed up they would move on. The loss of the George and the Lion was I believe a loss to the community but from this new things emerged. The Lion is now the Fusion restaurant and good food is served on a regular basis to lot of people. Interestingly the front of the restaurant acts as a sort of reminder to its drinking days and on a Saturday evening you can still find a few happy souls enjoying life in the company of friends as if nothing had changed and the spirit of the Lion lives on.

The George of course plays an even bigger role in the community than in its past life because it is now part of the Co-op and a busy Co-op at that. It was important to me that we were able to retain the original George building in that redevelopment so as to retain its uniqueness. The developers sadly have yet to put up the agreed street sign for the houses to the rear but that small cul-de-sac is actually called Daisy Close after Daisy Burdett nee Grimes who was the landlady for so many years.

The loss of the two public houses on the Main St, left the Bulls Head

and Queens Head at either end of the Main St together with the Field Head hotel and the Coach and Horses. Perhaps as a sign of renewed interest in this social gathering both the Hotel and the Coach and Horses are receiving substantial makeovers. The Coach and Horses is losing its skittle alley to make way for a renewed focus on the food offering with the kitchens coming downstairs.

Many years ago I worked in the Coach and remember when at weekends it would be heaving with people. Years before that, both my Grandma’s worked in the space which became the skittle alley, when it was a shoe factory. I hope the investments in our local public houses pays off and we continue to see a vibrant pub scene bringing people together. In an increasing insular world it is important we retain the social contact that binds communities together.

IT FEELS A LITTLE TOO early to be writing this article and at the same time wishing everybody a happy Christmas (happy christmas everyone!) Personally I haven’t really given much thought to the coming festivities other than where we actually spend the day in question. What to buy and for whom will be the same challenge

Historical Hysterical Christmas!

An Evening With Actor, Writer, Producer, Director, Wrestler and Comedian

MIKE KENNEDY at THORNTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE on THURSDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2015 - 7.30 p.m. at THORNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE

Mike has 32 years of experience in the entertainment industry, having started at the young age of six on the stage.

He has gone on to appear in three West End shows as well as television and radio, including roles such as Sgnt Wilson in the stage version of Dad’s Army, Doody in Grease, Nathan in The Full Monty and Buttons in Cinderella to name but a few.

He is also an entertaining and informative speaker on a variety of historical topics and is one of Tutbury Castle’s leading historical guides for ghost hunting events!

We will be delighted ot welcome him to Thornton, as he promises to open our eyes to the real history behind Christmas, the unwrapping of the origins of Christmas meals, the Christmas tree, mince pies and Father Christmas himself. Mike will tell us more about some of the oldest traditions of Christmas past that we still use today, as well as the strangest and most bizarre Christmas celebrations. Why was Christmas outlawed and why was it illegal to make Christmas pudding? Where did red Santa originate from and what about the green and even blue Santa? All these questions and more will be answered in Mike’s festive fun-packed presentation.

Mince pies and most excellent home-made wine will be served.

THERE WILL BE A CHRISTMAS RAFFLE. We will hold a “Present Exchange” where you may bring along a wrapped present (to the value of £2) and take away one to open as a surprise on Christmas morning.

The MEMBERS’ COMPETITION is for a decorated Christmas bauble.

WHY NOT COME ALONG TO ENJOY A FUN-FILLED AND VERY “CHRISTMASSY” EVENING IN GOOD COMPANY? YOU WILL BE MADE VERY WELCOME. Visitors’ Fee £3 which includes refreshments.

Muriel Walker

Matthew Lay as it always is and trying to make the most of the time with family and friends will require planning because before you know it the time will have passed.

It is very easy to forget about the magic of this season and what it means to people the world over especially children. You don’t need to be religious to recognise or understand the values that should underpin this time of the year but I suspect it is easy to put them to the back of ones mind while dealing with the pressing affairs of state.

I suspect we all do this at some point, I know I certainly do and it would seem we are more and more conditioned to to put to the back of our mind the things that really matter.

So let me just say, I hope that everybody finds the time (and I include myself in this) to make the most of the things that really matter at least at this special time of the year. I wish all of you the very best.

St Peters Church Copt Oak

Christmas Musical Entertainment with

Serenata

Saturday 5th December 7.30pm Tickets £5 to include mulled wine and mince pies.

To book contact Sue Gammon 244229 or Ted Pepper 249101

TAKE your dustbin to the supermarket with you so that you can see which items you have recently run out of.

14

Battling on For Rainbows, LOROS and PACE A LOUGHBOROUGH musician is dedicating profits from one of his songs to three local charities.

Conor Dawson, (23) – known as Ronoc - has been writing music for 6 years. This Christmas he wanted to do something special so all money from the download of his track ‘Battling On’ will be shared between Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, LOROS Hospice and people to believe and keep Battling PACE (Pro-Active Community On.” Endeavours).

To download Battling On, visit: Ronoc said: “I wrote this song ITunes , Amazon or Google earlier this year. The message PlayRonoc describes himself: behind the words in the song is about the struggles in life and “As a solo artist working my way having to overcome obstacles and up in the industry, I am looking keep ‘Battling On’. Take for instance for more gigs and opportunities to the lyrics in the second verse: ‘Grab really get my music out there. After you’re ghosts of suffering, grown by the release of my first official EP me I let them in, lets cast love try April this Year, I am building a fan to begin again, we keep battling.’ base across the country, focusing It shows how even in dark times, locally and expanding organically. when haunted with pain and A bit about me: I’m a local lad that suffering, we can pull together and has lived in Loughborough for keep striving forward, keep battling most of my life, Going to school at on.

Outwoods edge, Woodbrook Vale and then onto Rawlins College “When it came to releasing this in Quorn. It was at the age of 12 single, with the message behind when listening to the Red Hot Chili the song being so powerful, it Peppers when I asked my parents was a natural decision to donate for a guitar, and got one with all revenue from downloads and the condition that I had lessons. streaming to three local charities Becoming student of the year in that I support. The meaning music at Rawlins let my passion for relates very well with each of these music shine through, I Studied the charities and all people involved.” subject at an A-Level standard and Ronoc chose to support Rainbows proceeded with a Triple Distinction. as he has lived on the same housing During my teen years I was in estate as the hospice for most of quite a few bands in the area, his life. He said: “At school, we and started gigging in and around frequently had fundraising events Loughborough from the age of 15. in aid of Rainbows. Having an Sneaking into pubs and venues as awareness of them for most of my an under-age musician. I then went life and supporting them in the past to London at 18 to pursuit music it was a natural decision to choose further. them.

“Last Year I finished a Bachelor “I support LOROS because this of Music Degree with honours charity supports the patients, in London at The Institute Of families and staff battling with Contemporary Performance. I was terminal illness. One staff members there for four years and spent a mentioned after hearing the track lot of time developing as an all‘It certainly resonates in a hospice round musician. It was here where environment where everyday life I focused more on the original, with a terminal illness is a battle’. creative and song writing aspects This charity has helped thousands of music. After I graduated in of people over the years.

November 2014, I have recently “And I support PACE, which is moved back to Loughborough and run by a local church, based close I Live Between Loughborough and to where I work part-time, they London. do fantastic work with people in poverty in the Loughborough area.

They hand out food and support to families that need it, offering financial advice and aid wherever necessary. They have highly qualified staff, which can offer a confidential counselling service covering any kind of help required.

They invest time and commitment back into the surrounding community. The work they do is inspiring and they encourage

“In the past I have had some success with a band I was in called The Vacations. Our main accomplishment was signing a music licencing deal with a company called Hype Music (part of Sony and MTV) so had some of our songs featured on MTV TV shows, such as Jersey Shores and Friendzone.

“After the band went our separate ways in late 2013, I’ve been focused on my solo career. A year and a half of song writing, gigging and developing my sound as an artist, I released my first EP earlier this year and had local support from Oak fm and Hermitage fm.

“Now I’m just trying to gain as much exposure as I can. All of my music has been produced, written and recorded by myself.

“My main focus now is gearing up for this Charity single release.

The music will be available online, on iTunes, Amazon, available to streaming, and on my own website, Ronocmusic.com. Battling On was independently released with an online distributor on November 27th. Make sure you are a part of this amazing movement…

“So far, I have had a wealth of support. BBC Introducing East Midlands have featured the song.

I’ve also had features on BBC radio Leicester with Rupal Rajani. Also, the Local radio stations Oak Fm and Hermitage Fm have been pushing the song and campaign.

In the press I’ve had stories and support from The Leicester Mercury, Loughborough Echo and Leicestershire Guardian. Couple this with the full support of all three charities involved, this campaign really taking off. You can be a part of this movement and make a difference for three amazing charities this winter and Christmas.

“Still Friday” 2016

Each evening will include simple reflective worship songs, silence, prayer, readings and responses and last up to an hour.

All are welcome. Come along and enjoy the peace.

15th January

19th February

18th March

15th April

20th May

17th June

15th July

19th August

16th September 21st October

No “Still Friday” in December

18th November

Fridays 8.00 pm at St. Michael & All Angels’ Church

Bagworth Club

Rockin’ around the Christmas Tree in Bag’uth KEN AND GLENDA and their small team of volunteers raised £425 for Wishes 4 Kids at their charity dance at The Club, Bagworth on Friday 20th November.

This included a donation, for which they are very grateful.

The next Social Dance at The Club will be on Saturday 19th December at 8 pm. The team have also arranged a dance for New Year’s Eve at The Club. This will be on Thursday 31st December from 8 pm till late. Admission will be £3.

There is another Social Dance arranged by Ken and Glenda and the team, but please note that this will involve a change of time and venue. This Social Dance will take place on Christmas Eve and it will be at Bagworth Community Centre.

The money raised will be donated towards the running of the Centre.

The members of the Trust are very grateful to Ken and Glenda and the team for organising this. It will begin at 7.30 pm and will end at 10.30 pm ensuring that there will be no close encounters with any Christmas visitors dressed in red.

Admission will be £2.50.

At all of these events, the music will be provided by Ken’s CDs. Bingo sessions and raffles will also take place, but, as usual, these are not included in the admission price.

If it weren’t for grudges, some people wouldn’t have anything to hold onto.

15

IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE MARKFIELD MEN WHO DIED IN WORLD WAR ONE 100 years ago this month REGINALD CHARLES CRAMP Reginald Charles Cramp was killed in action on 21st December 1915 aged 29.

He was born in Markfield in 1886, the son of Karen Jane Cramp. He was brought up in Main Street, Markfield by his widowed grandmother, Thirza Cramp. His mother worked in Leicester, where, in 1892, she married Walter Read and Reginald had 4 half-siblings. Reginald does not appear to have ever lived with his mother. In 1900 his grandmother died and, probably, Reginald lived with his uncle John Cramp in Main Street, Markfield until 1905.

In 1905, Reginald signed up with the 2nd Battalion of the Leicestershire Regiment and in 1906 was posted to India for 7 years. He then transferred to the reserves and returned to England in 1913. In March 1914 he married Alice Clapham in Leicester (his half sister Lillian Read was a witness) and they had two children. He was recalled to the army and was posted to France in September 1914 and his family went to live in Aylestone Park. He was killed in action near Ypres in Belgium.

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16 An eggstra-ordinary achievement!

Amateur Swimmers create wildlife pond at Redgate Sanctuary THURSDAY 5TH NOVEMBER was a very busy day at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary. Staff and Trustees were delighted to welcome 18 representatives from the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA Aquatics) from all over England. The day was arranged through the local project charity Leicestershire Cares.

Our 18 day-volunteers worked very hard to complete all the work on our wish-list! The main task, for which we, and all the on-site water fowl, geese and poultry, are hugely grateful, was the creation of a wildlife pond with reeds and water plants and with turfed areas on its banks. They also built sand boxes for the chickens to scratch around in – chickens are clever and inquisitive creatures and they love exploring. In fact within an hour of the new area being finished, no fewer than three freshly laid white eggs had appeared on the new grass! And those eggs soon disappeared - claimed for some lucky person’s tea no doubt!

A green-fingered group of swimmers also dug over the entrance area and ‘front garden’ on Shaw Lane, pruning the trees and shrubs and planting over 200 spring bulbs. The whole area looks so much better for their hard work, and we can’t wait to see it in spring. They also emptied all the many hanging baskets and troughs so they are ready for replanting with brightly coloured annuals next year, to welcome our future visitors.

We are very pleased to report that the ASA are keen to return in 2016 to take on another big project to benefit the animals at Redgate. If you want to see what is going on at your local animal sanctuary, please see the website/Facebook at www.redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk email redgate@mail.org or call 01530 243 925. Please don’t forget we always need Volunteers and not only for big projects but for the day to day running of the site and the charity. Please do not hesitate to get in touch, even if you could only spare about an hour a week, or fortnight.

Local Christmas fundraising Events: And please do come along and support us at our two main December fundraisers – at Markfield Community Centre Christmas Market on Sunday 6th December from 11am, and the fabulous Christmas concert ‘Bells, Sprites and Goblins’ – with singing, dancing and a cake raffle, at St. Peter’s church, Thornton on Sunday 13th December at 3pm.

Thank You!

Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary would like to say a massive “Thank you” to Nikki Colden, Tracy Peden and Jools Moore who raised a fabulous total of £450 for Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary by holding a Christmas Craft and Treats Fair for us at Bagworth Community Centre on Friday 6th November.

It was a wonderful evening with 24 stalls, a huge raffle and plenty of home-made cake (Jool’s and Tracy’s cakes are legendary!).

Nikki, Tracy and Jools visited the sanctuary on a cold and wet November afternoon to present the cheque to sanctuary Supervisor Jack Tacey, and to staff member Kate Chamberlain (pictured – in the hat with ears!), and while they were there they visited the ‘new’ wildfowl pond, recently improved for us by the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) on one of their project days. The pond is in front of the old kennels which, in spring 2016, we hope to convert into new accommodation for cats and kittens (fundraising permitting!).

If you would like to volunteer at Redgate or organise a fundraising event for us please speak with Jack at the sanctuary on 01530 243 925 or with Jo Leadbetter, Trustee, on 01530 230 455, or email redgate@mail.org the sanctuary is open to the public every day from 10.30am – 3pm and there are (usually) some parking spaces on site in the ménage.

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Local driver wins championship and follows in father’s footsteps TWENTY-YEAR-OLD local motor racing driver Joe Spencer clinched the CNC Heads Sports Saloon title at Oulton Park in October.

In doing so, he repeated the success of his father Rob Spencer - who won the championship in 2009.

Joe has been racing since he was 16. His RS Motorsport car is fitted with a standard 1400cc motorcycle engine and has been developed over a ten-year period.

The only sad aspect of Joe’s success this season was that his grandfather wasn’t there to see him triumph. Joe’s grandfather was his biggest fan, never missing a race, but sadly he passed away in 2013 when Joe was in his second season.

Joe’s success was featured in a major article in the October issue of Autosport Magazine - the world’s best motorsport weekly.

Well done Joe!

17

NT Live Brings Jane Eyre to Loughborough University

A Choral Christmas at Loughborough University

LUT Arts brings a stage and literary gem to Loughborough on Tuesday December 8th when they present a live screening of The National Theatre production of “Jane Eyre” to the University’s Cope Auditorium.

LOUGHBOROUGH University Choir’s Festive Season starts on Wednesday December 9th when they present their Christmas Cracker Concert at the Cope Auditorium.

This acclaimed re-imagining of Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece was first staged by Bristol Old Vic, when the story was performed over two evenings.

Director Sally Cookson now brings her celebrated production to the National, presented as a single, exhilarating performance.

From her beginnings as a destitute orphan, Jane Eyre’s spirited heroine faces life’s obstacles head-on.

She must survive poverty, injustice and the discovery of bitter betrayal before taking the ultimate decision to follow her heart.

Almost 170 years on, the story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever.

This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms.

The cast includes Benji Bower, Will Bower, Craig Edwards, Laura Elphinstone, Felix Hayes, Phil King, Melanie Marshall, Simone Saunders, Maggie Tagney and Madeleine Worrall.

This live screening of “Jane Eyre”, direct from the stage of the National Theatre can be seen on Tuesday December 8th at the Cope Auditorium, Loughborough University.

The performance begins at 7.00pm and tickets are available now on 01509-231914, from the Loughborough Town Hall Box Office or online at www.arts.lboro.ac.uk.

The programme is unashamedly Christmassy, including a musical miscellany of carols, seasonal songs and familiar tunes performed by the Choir, LSU Sing! and the University String Ensemble.

The University Choir is open to all staff and students of the University and to members of the public aged 16 and over. Each year the Choir gives two or three public performances, including this annual Christmas concert. If you want to join, e-mail luarts@lboro.ac.uk for more information.

LSU Sing! is a fun, friendly choir run by students, for students. Singers of any ability are welcome and the group performs in the local area regularly, at a variety of events throughout the year. Any profits made from their performances are donated to Ashmount School in Loughborough.

The String Ensemble plays music ranging from Baroque, Light Classical, Jazz and Film music. This year the String Orchestra will be performing excerpts of Handel’s “Messiah” together with Loughborough University Choir for this Christmas concert.

Come and help pull the University’s Christmas Cracker on Wednesday December 9th at the Cope Auditorium, Loughborough University. Paper hats not provided but we will do our best with the jokes! Includes seasonal refreshments!

The performance begins at 7.30pm and tickets are available now on 01509-231914, from the Loughborough Town Hall Box Office or online at www.arts.lboro.ac.uk.

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18

Are you taking a mid-winter break?

IF YOU ARE preparing to take off for foreign climes, do keep an eye out for signs that have English words… but perhaps not an English meaning!

In hotels and train stations and airports all over the world there are polite little signs that will bring a smile to the lips of even an exhausted traveller. For instance, how about these*: • Switzerland: We have nice bath and are very good in bed.

• Romania: The lift is being fixed for the next day. During that time we regret you will be unbearable.

• Russia: If this is your first visit to the USSR, you are welcome to it.

• Italy: If service is required, give two strokes to the maid and three to the waiter.

• Spain: Our wine list leaves you with nothing to hope for.

• Denmark: In the event of fire, open a window and announce your presence in a seemly manner.

• Canary Islands: If you telephone for room service you will get the answer you deserve.

Have you spotted any signs that mistranslate English? If so, please tell the editor, and we will publish them … *With thanks to ‘Lost in Translation: Misadventures in English Abroad’ by Charlie Croker (Michael O’Mara Books, £9.99) A friend said to me, ‘I can never do the Welsh accent properly. Every time I try it, it sounds like Pakistani.’

I said, ‘You’ll just have to try harder, Tariq.’

News from MARKFIELD COMMUNITY LIBRARY AT HOME for Christmas?

Come along to Markfield Community Library.

Bring the children during the school holidays. We have books for them to choose and games to play All for free!

Our Christmas opening times are: • Monday December 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd open as normal • Thursday 24th, Friday 25th, Saturday 26th, Sunday 27th and Monday 28th - Closed • Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th - open as usual • Thursday 31st open as usual during the day but closed in the evening • Friday January 1st - closed • Back to normal opening times from Saturday January 2nd

CHILDRENS’ ACTIVITY DAY - DECEMBER 29th IN THE Library between 10.00am and 3.00pm we will have a childrens’ activity day where there will be lots of arts and crafts for children to freely enjoy as well as competitions, games and refreshments.

enjoyable experience and we have a wide range of library resources for young children to borrow.

CHRISTMAS BEDTIME STORIES BRING YOUR little ones along in their onesies or PJ’s - not forgetting their favourite teddy or cuddly toy - and they can enjoy a glass of milk and cookies while listening to some of their favourite Christmas bedtime stories and lullabies.

These sessions will be great fun and a lovely way of sharing books with your child at bedtime.

Every Monday and Thursday evening at 6.00pm until Christmas The charge is just £1 for the little ones which will include their bedtime snack.

HALLOWEEN

WE ARE all looking forward to the New Year and to all our new clubs, groups and societies including our new Writers Group; Art Class and Quiz nights.

If a child would like to bring a toy or game they would like to play with other children they will be most welcome, however there’s no need to bring anything as everything will be provided for the children to have a fun time.

They’ll be able to help create our Winter Wonderland Wall as well as making collages; paintings and even musical instruments as well as take out lots of books to read over the holiday

Email to: info@ markfieldherald. co.uk Thanks!

OUR WEEKLY Children’s Reading and Rhymes Sessions (Wriggly Readers) are held every Friday morning between 9.15am and 9.45am.

Come along with your under 5’s and enjoy fun, informal and friendly sessions where babies, toddlers and their parents or carers join in stories, songs and rhymes in a welcoming environment and where families can meet and make new friends. These sessions will be held in our dedicated childrens area surrounded by books and picture books.

Sharing books and songs is an

But by far the most popular was our Halloween Scavenger Hunt where children took torches into our reading garden and made their way past ghosts and ghouls to find all the hidden clues.

All our volunteers and visitors really dressed for the occasion as you can see from some of the photographs.

COMING UP IN THE NEW YEAR ...

READING AND RHYMES

Don’t forget to send us your NEWS!

bowling and catching the doughnut.

WE HAD a lot of fun at our Halloween event where children played a few spooky games, including find the sweets in the brains, as well as ghost

We will also have our usual Book Clubs, Games Afternoon and Coffee and Cake Club, Reading and Rhymes as well as our weekly Ancestry and Family Tree research sessions.

We are lucky to have an expert from the Records Office in Wigston who will be joining us on a regular basis to help dig deeper into your research.

For more information on any of our events please email: markfieldcommunitylibraryevents@ mail.com or visit our website www.markfieldcommunitylibrary.co.uk

Autocorrect just changed “I have so much anxiety I can barely breathe” to “I’m fine”.

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Children learn about local democracy CHILDREN and young people from primary schools in Hinckley & Bosworth found out how local democracy works during a special event that was held last month.

The Borough Council hosted an interactive session in the council chamber for 38 children, aged between 7 and 11 years old, as part of Local Democracy Week.

They had the chance to talk to councillors, the chief executive and meet the mayor, then do various exercises including a matching game about what services are provided at the different levels of democracy.

They also did an exercise to discuss what they think the perfect councillor should be like. The ideas and suggestions were very inspiring and will be developed into a new poster that will be displayed in the council chamber to remind councillors of what the children expect of them.

The children were told all about how the council operates, what voting is and were given the opportunity for debate and also to vote on issues that affect them.

They were accompanied by teachers and support staff, who all took away work packs to use at school with the children who were unable to attend.

At the end of the event all the children were presented with a certificate and book.

Councillor Miriam Surtees, the Borough Council’s Children, Young People and Families Champion, said: “We were all so impressed at how articulate, well-informed and passionate the young people of Hinckley are. It is so great For all the family to see their enthusiasm and how keen they are to learn and share this learning with their peers back at school.”

Monday 21st December Bagworth Community Centre 4.00-5.30pm

children of all ages - get a parent, friend grandparent or neighbour to bring you There will be lots of things to

Refreshments provided including Mulled wine, fruit drinks and mince pies Children must be accompanied by an adult Organised by Holy Rood Church and the Benefice of Markfield, Thornton, Bagworth, Stanton under Bardon and Copt Oak

Are you in control of your money... or do your finances control you?

Can you save up to pay for the things you need... or do you pay for them all ‘later’ - with interest?

Contact details: Steph Beeston-Clarke Lead CAP Money Coach stephbc@hotmail.co.uk 01530 243606 07572 852684 https://capuk.org/ i-wanthelp/cap-money-course/ course

Come on the CAP money course for help with building a budget and saving for the future. It is suitable for anyone and everyone whatever their financial situation – good or bad – and is completely confidential.

There will be a new course starting on 26th January 2016 so book now to ensure you get a place.

Contact Steph to find out more. Come on your own, with a friend or in a group.

Ageing gracefully is like the nice way of saying you’re slowly looking worse.

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Markfield Weekly Table Top Sale At Markfield Community Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield LE67 9ST 8.30am till 11.45am (Set up from 8am) Tables supplied - £6 each or £9 a double

News from Stanton Village Hall

Ring Mick on 07747 052878

The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays We now have SKY and BT Sports Multi Screen. Ask about our new CHRISTMAS menus! www.bricklayersarms.net The Club, Thornton Main Street.

T: 01530 230251 Open To Non-members Sat 5th Dec: WELLARD WILLY Band Fri 11th Dec: CASINO ROYALE CHARITY EVENING For Macmillan Nurses, Evening Dress Optional, Casual Wear Welcome.

Sat 19th Dec: Thornton’s Own Punk Band Returns To The Thornton - PUNK & DISORDERLY Sat 20th Dec: CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY - 4pm With Dj Chic. Please Let Us Know If You’re Bringing Your Children (For Catering Etc ) Via The Thornton Facebook Or On The List In The Club.

Boxing Day Afternoon: 4.30pm Awaiting Confirmation New Years Eve: THE DIRTY WATER BAND Sky & BT Sports Free Room Hire Available For Your Perfect Party - Bingo Every Tuesday Evening - View Our Website On www.facebook.com/ TheThorntonClub Bagworth Working Men’s Club, Station Road, Bagworth.

Tel. 01530 230205 Find us on FACEBOOK search Bagworth WMC New members welcome.

Sat 19th Dec: SOCIAL DANCE Thurs 31st Dec: SOCIAL DANCE Every Tuesday night - TARGET SHOOTING - call for details Every Monday night: DOMINOES - only £1.50 entry, which includes supper. Bargain!

Live entertainment – last Saturday of the month Bingo & Raffle every Wednesday and Saturday Andy’s Charity Quiz £1.50 each - last Friday of the month - and RAFFLE - with excellent prizes.

Sequence dances Sunday Nights with live organist - £2.00 admission 8 pm Tea Dance Wednesday afternoon 2 – 4 pm. £1 admission.

Ask about our FREE ROOM HIRE for those special family occasions.

The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield.

T: 01530 242 496 ALL SKY SPORTS & BT SPORTS. All live TIGERS games.

The Bull’s Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Christmas Eve: JOHN STACEY male guitarist and singer.

New Year’s Eve: Come Party with PHIL CARR We are open on Christmas Day (11.30am till 2pm) and Christmas Night (from 8.30pm).

Open all day Boxing Day from 12 noon.

Garden & Pub Games etc.

POKER NIGHT - Tuesdays starts at 8pm The Old Thatched Inn Main Street, Stanton under Bardon Tel: 01530 243976 Sat 12th December - MEMPHIS TO VEGAS - a tribute to the king of rock and roll - free entry - 9pm ish start.

Sun 20th December - 3pm CHILDREN’S PARTY - Children must be supervised by a family member Thurs 31st December - NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY - Music, dancing, laughter and nibbles.

Hallowe’en Event ON 31ST OCTOBER the Entertainments Sub-Committee of the Village Hall Trust organised a children’s Hallowe’en event in association with the school’s PTA. The event was a sell-out and the feedback the Trust has received has been very positive. Very well done all the members of the Entertainments SubCommittee!

Christmas Fayre HAVING CELEBRATED Hallowe’en, the Entertainments Committee turned its attention to our first Christmas Fayre which is to take place in the Main Hall from 1200 to 4pm on Sunday 6th December.

The event will include craft stalls where you can purchase that special gift for which you’ve been searching, and Christmas cards. There will also be face painting, nail painting, a cake stall and lots of additional entertainment.

Refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon. Please come along and support us and take the opportunity to look around our fabulous, brand new, village hall.

Future Events FOR THE first time Stantonunder-Bardon Primary School will be presenting its Christmas performance in the village hall. For further details please contact the school secretary.

The Village Hall Trust is currently investigating the possibility of introducing Community Cinema into the village hall. We hope to arrange for Phoenix Community Cinema to come and present a selection of their film programmes as a regular event. As I write this, we are in process of making first contact with the Phoenix group who organise these events. We’ll continue to report progress in this regard in future ‘Heralds’.

What Can We Do for You? IF YOU wish to organise your own event, a birthday party, perhaps, or wedding reception then please contact us on 01530 243631 or at stantonvillagehall@gmail.com to organise a booking and to see how we can assist you.

Also, if you have any ideas of things you would like to be offered at our hall, e.g. classes in a particular subject, or perhaps the creation of a hobby club, then please don’t hesitate to contact us. We will do our very best to facilitate your requirements and we would welcome your ideas. We have a large hall which can accommodate up to 200 people and a meeting room which can accommodate up to 10 people conference style or up to 20 theatre style.

We look forward to hearing from you!

My boss said he’s going to fire the employee with the worst posture. I’ve got a hunch it might be me.

21

A man was arrested for stealing helium balloons. Police held him for a while then let him go.

22

Top Marks for Dixie Grammar in Inspection DIXIE Grammar School are celebrating this week following the publication of the school’s inspection report which awards them the highest possible rating in every category.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate uses a four-point scale, with excellent’ being the equivalent to Ofsted’s ‘outstanding’.

Schools are closely inspected in eight key areas and Dixie was given the coveted ‘excellent’ rating in all categories.

The inspection took place between Tuesday 13 and Friday 16 October 2015, examining the quality of pupils’ learning and achievement, the contribution of curricular and extra-curricular provision, the contribution of teaching, the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of the pupils, the contribution of arrangements for pastoral care, the contribution of arrangements for welfare health and safety, the quality of governance and the quality of leadership and management.

Staff at the school know that very few schools receive the elusive ‘excellent’ for teaching and even fewer achieve ‘excellent’ across the board, so were delighted when the Headmaster was able to pass on such excellent news.

All three phases of schooling at Dixie (Nursery, Junior and Senior) were covered by the inspection which gives cause for celebration for the whole family of staff and for pupils aged from 3-18.

Highlights from the report include parents being delighted with the way the school is led and deals with each pupil as an individual, the excellent quality of teaching and the extremely well-planned lessons which engage pupils, teachers giving of their time generously out of class and the strong relationships between staff and pupils resulting in excellent pastoral care and secure, confident pupils.

The report also highlighted pupils’ excellent personal development and commented on both the high achievements of the youngest pupils in the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) and on the excellent skills in independent working, reasoning and investigation in evidence in the Sixth Form.

A number of key events are now being planned to celebrate such an achievement with staff, parents, pupils and the wider community.

Headmaster, Mr Richard Lynn, commented, “I could not be prouder of the school, staff, parents and pupils and I am thrilled that no school in the wider area has received a more glowing assessment from ISI.”

If you’d like to advertise in The Herald, contact Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069 or email: info@ markfieldherald. co.uk Thank you!

Healthwatch Leicestershire listens to substance misuse service users Healthwatch Leicestershire has spent time listening to the service users and staff of Swanswell, a national alcohol and drug charity, and has heard that improvements in communication between care services such as GPs, Hospitals and Substance Misuse services could improve the recovery of service users.

Respondents told Healthwatch that there is a lack of communication and coordination between different services and professionals. For example a greater dialog between University

Hospitals of Leicester (UHL), GPs and Swanswell would provide a more joined up approach for service users of substance misuse services. Some services users told Healthwatch that they had been admitted to hospital as a result of substance misuse but were not asked if they needed additional support or if they were currently accessing support services.

One service user who wanted to reduce their alcohol consumption felt that no one cared and that not enough effort was made to provide medication to help them to stop drinking. Another service user commented: “GPs need

to be more understanding about alcoholism”.

Healthwatch Leicestershire’s findings also revealed positives which could be built upon. For example, many service users who attended peer mentor groups also commented that SMART Recovery sessions were helpful.

Based on the findings from the report, Healthwatch Leicestershire has spoken with Swanswell who are considering the recommendations outlined in the report. The full findings of the report are available online at http://www.healthwatchleicestershire. co.uk/resources

My mate went a bit off the rails when he was younger, which is probably why he’s no longer a train driver.

Hollyoaks star raises £1000 for LOROS HOLLYOAKS star and LOROS Ambassador Charlie Clapham has raised nearly £1000 for the Hospice, after visiting the Leicester charity in November.

The 24-year-old actor held a piercing day at the piercing studio his family own, Kazbah, in Leicester.

The soap star gave fans the chance to get pierced by him, with money from the first 30 piercings going to LOROS, as well as all everything taken after 5pm.

“It was such a fantastic day,” said Charlie, who Charlie Clapham outside LOROS, grew up in Humberstone. with his mum, Julie “It couldn’t have gone any better and everyone was so generous with their donations. One littler girl put all of her pocket money in the LOROS bucket and all she wanted was a cuddle, it was so lovely.

LOROS Community Lead, Adrian Walker said he was extremely pleased that Charlie has agreed to become a LOROS Ambassador.

Each evening will include simple reflective worship songs, silence, 23 prayer, readings and responses and last up to an hour.

All are welcome. Come along and enjoy the peace.

Merry 15th January 19th February 18th March 15th April Christmas to all 20th May 17th June 15th July 19th August our customers.

16th September 21st October 18th November We look forward No “Still Friday” in December to seeing you Fridays 8.00 pm at St. Michael & All Angels’ overChurch the festive period!

Christingles

The

Christmas Eve Thursday 24th December Bricklayer’s Arms

213 Main Main St Street, Thornton Tel:at 01530 230808 213 Street, Thornton Tel: 01530 230808 Michael’s, Markfield 6.00pm www.bricklayersarms.net www.bricklayersarms.net

St Mary’s, Stanton under Bardon at 4.00pm

Wednesday is

Traditional

St Peter’s, Thornton atSunday 4.00pm Lunch

“STEAK NIGHT”

1 Course - £8.00

Events are suitable for all the family 2Christingle Steaks, With Hand-Cut Chips, 2 Courses - £10.00 and all are welcome.

Peas, Tomato, Mushrooms & Two 3 Courses - £12.00 Glasses of House Wine - £18.95 With personal service to your table

Oranges and all the bits will be provided for children to make Pie and take home at the end Home-Made Night - Tuesdays - £5.95

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

a Churches Together in Markfield initiative

An opportunity to relax, find peace and 'reflect' on our place in the world.

With creative suggestions for reading, thinking and exploring prayer.

Congregational Church Hall - 6-7pm Thursdays 28th January, 25th February, 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June Come for as long as you wish and leave when you want.

Refreshments available. All are welcome.

Further information: Rosemary (242844)

After years struggling with my addiction to alcohol gel, I’m finally clean.

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DON’T BE ALONE CHRISTMAS DAY

Building Landscapes & Tree Surgery

Landscaping

Tree Surgery

Driveways / Block Paving Patios & Decking Garden Walls / Stone Walls Ponds / Water Features Design Service Available

Trees Removed,

Building

Pollarded, Reduced & Shaped Hedgerows Cut, Laid or Removed Fencing (all types) Logs for sale

Extensions - Porches - Repointing

Tel: 01604 563021 (Mobile) Harvey or Min: 07966 505688 www.hm-landscapes.com

For

DINNER AND FESTIVITIES For people over 60 in Anstey and surrounding villages TRANSPORT CAN BE ARRANGED

TO BOOK YOUR PLACE PLEASE RING

07979 607099-Kerry Sharpe or 0116 2368811-Julie Ford There is no charge for the day, we just want everyone to have the opportunity of being with others on what can be a lonely day

I was once bitten by a German Shepherd, but he apologised afterwards and even introduced me to his dog.

25

News from Cross Hills Baptist Church Serving the villages of Thornton & Bagworth plus the surrounding area 2015 Shoebox Appeal AGAIN, we had a wonderful response to this year’s appeal and a total of 68 boxes were received, together with some lovely knitted hats and other items to go in the boxes.

Our previous record of 67 boxes has been broken yet again and we wholeheartedly thank everyone who has taken part in any way for your kindness. The flat pack, decorated ‘Go’ boxes (that were 50p each) proved to be very popular this year instead of having to find and wrap ordinary shoeboxes. We will therefore be having these available again next year.

Our Pastor, Garry led our special Shoebox themed Family Service on Sunday 15th November which was very moving, with videos of the excitement and joy of the children receiving their shoeboxes in past years.

The 68 boxes have now been taken to The Big Shed Conference Centre, part of the Covenant Life Church building on Freemens Common in Leicester, where they are checked and packed into larger boxes ready for shipping. They will be distributed where there is most need but also where it is safe for the Samaritan’s Purse workers to go. As mentioned in the November Herald, this year this is expected to be to refugees both in the camps in Northern Iraq and in Eastern Europe, where many of the Syrian refugees have fled to and can be found. It is good to think of all those children who will be receiving a little of the love of Jesus through us in their boxes this Christmas to brighten their difficult lives for a while. For those who made their £3 donation online, printed off the barcode and put it in their box, they will be hearing later about where their box was sent.

Christmas Carol Service, Saturday 19th December 7.30pm MARWOOD Brass Band will be playing for us again and we are expecting Santa to make his usual visit hopefully bringing some sweets with him to hand out to the children!

Mince Pies will be served with tea and coffee afterwards.

An offering will be taken during this

Service and half will go to support the work of the Lawrence House Hinckley Homeless Project and half to support Marwood Brass Band.

Christmas Services AT OUR 10.30am Service on Sunday 20th December, the children and young people of the Sunday Club will be doing their Christmas presentations and there will be a puppet production.

Based on the biblical Christmas story, they can be very touching, so bring your handkerchieves!

On Christmas Day there will be a short, and very informal service at 10.30am – if you have visitors or family staying with you over Christmas, please bring them along with you! The children like to bring one of their favourite Christmas presents with them, so please join in.

We are a friendly and welcoming church and look forward to meeting you all. A special offering will as usual be taken on Christmas Day that will be put together with the Carol Service offering and go to support the Lawrence House Hinckley Homeless Project that is facing very difficult times at the moment.

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

A very Happy Christmas to everyone and we look forward to seeing you at Christmas or in the New Year.

Contact Numbers Pastor - Garry Kelly: 01455 457802/07816 616189 Secretary - Lynda Kelly: 01455 457802/07910 440243 Treasurer - Glynis Straw: 01530 230272 Parish Nurse - Vera Harding: 01530 230557

Glynis Straw

Treasurer - on behalf of the Cross Hills Church family

The Beatles ... at Cliftonville!

GOING ON holiday with your mum and dad, when you are the ripe old age of eighteen, is not cool.

There’s no if ’s or but’s about it, it’s official. In 1962, I was nineteen, my parents always went down to Mrs. Fox’s boarding house at Cliftonville in June. Margate was too common for the likes of us, although I thought our family was pretty common.

My second-hand Ford Consul Mk1, front bench seat, column gearchange, bodywork green in colour, beige leather interior, venetian blinds in the rear window, now that vehicle was cool.” I’ll take you to Mrs. Fox’s but I’m not staying with you, I’ve got better things to do than spend a week in boring old Cliftonville.” I said to mum. “You would enjoy it”. “I’m not staying, OK”.

The cylinder head gasket was leaking on my lovely Consul Mk1, so we had to take it steady, and check the water level every few miles, so as not to overheat the 1500cc engine in my cruising machine, registration number JBO573. My memory is full of my old reg. numbers and Rock/Pop trivia. I’ve still not found a use for that combination of data yet.

Arriving in Cliftonville, driving past the Winter Gardens, which is a little Theatre, overlooked by Mrs. Fox’s small hotel, as Mum called it, I thought I’d glimpsed a poster, advertising the fact that a Four piece Combo was performing at the “Winter Gardens “for the season. No, I must have read it wrong; surely “The Beatles” could not possibly be playing six nights a week, for the season in Cliftonville.

I quickly parked my now very hot engined Ford Consul Mk1 1958, ran across the small park to the poster to discover that “The Beatles”, obviously booked for the season, well before they had risen to such heights, were in fact performing every night, just 100 yards from where my Mum and Dad were about to start their weeks holiday.

“Dad, I’m staying with you for the week, will you have a word with Mrs Fox to see if she’ll put me up too?” Therefore, I’m going to be un-cool and stay with my parents on holiday, just so I can see “The Beatles” every- night.

Who’s a mummy’s boy then?

Tickets were available for Monday, I went together with my young sister Gail, and she was beginning to appreciate the music that I was obsessed with. I was getting fed up with the Presley tracks since the “Army” period, the Beatles were giving me that feeling I had experienced after hearing Presley’s’ “I want you, I need you, I love you” and “One night” etc.

Just before this holiday, I had been playing the “Please Please Me” album non-stop. Never before had an album had so many tracks on that moved me, not necessary the musical content, though that was pretty special, but the rawness. For some reason, Ringo’s (what a silly name), bass drum was one thing that stood out, I don’t think I’d heard a record before then, that an engineer had bothered to “mike up” a bass drum.

The big moment arrived, the venue appeared to be wider than it was deep, the whole audience seemed only a few feet from the stage. I remember feeling a little nervous waiting for my hero’s to appear.”Ladies and Gentlemen, “THE BEATLES”, my god!, the rear doors about blew off their hinges, the impact of that opening number will be with me forever.

“One Two Three Four, Well she was just seventeen.....”, My God! “I’ll never dance with another.” Those unusual harmonies from John Lennon and Paul what’s ‘is name. When it came to George’s solo, it was if another force had come through those rear doors, Paul screamed and all three, Paul, John and George shot back from the mikes. My God! I’ve never seen that before.

“Roll over Beethoven”, I didn’t think John sang on that track, he did that night, he joined in on the final chorus and it sent shivers through my body.

“Till There Was You” quietened things down a little, but it was just a ruse to blow you away with the next opening. “Aah....Aah.... Aah, Well shake it up baby now”, will I survive the evening? I did survive because the next day, my sister and I made friends with three brothers from Sunderland, “What?

You’re here at Mrs. Fox’s with your mum and dad?” they asked. “I only stayed ‘cause The Beatles are playing here,” was my reply to their northern insults.

Convincing the “Geordies” that “The Beatles” were worth seeing was easy, my excitement must have projected well. All five of us went to the “Winter Gardens” on Tuesday evening, what a performance! Looking back now, I can only wonder what made that band give such a show, night after night.

The rest of the story is known by most ...

John Heath, Markfield

I got my hair highlighted because I though some strands were more important than others.

26

Markfield Community Centre News

Tel: 01530 242240 or email markfieldcomunitycentre@hotmail.co.uk or you can visit our website www.markfield communitycentre.com

Some Recognition

THIS WEEKEND!

On 17th November I was invited to the Leicestershire County Council’s Promoting Independence and Supporting Communities strategy meeting to give a presentation on what we do at the Mayflower Club and what we have achieved since in started in January 2013.

Centre’s Grand Christmas Fair This SUNDAY the 6th December from 10am to 4pm the Centre will be holding its first ever Christmas Fair and entry is FREE. There will be loads of stalls providing the opportunity for amazing Christmas Gift ideas including cakes, jams, festive wreaths, sweets, crafts, toys, cards, beauty products, jewellery, night ware and home crafts.

Father Christmas will be making a special appearance along with his “special reindeer” from 12 noon to 2pm. Apart from meeting Father Christmas your children can also bring along their letters for Father Christmas and post them in our special North Pole post box, please make sure you put your name and address on the letter so that Father Christmas can reply. The bar will be open and you can also sample some warming mulled wine.

Leicester City Football Club legend Matt Elliott will be making a guest appearance during and there will be displays by some of our Centre users groups.

Toys on the Table Appeal PEOPLE are starting to bring toys into the Centre as donations to the Leicester Mercury’s Christmas Toys on the Table appeal and many thanks for the support so far.

You can still donate new toys to the appeal. Just pop them into the Centre and we will ensure that they are passed on for disadvantaged children to open on Christmas Day.

Mayflower Club Update THE CLUB had yet another busy month with a whole host of interesting and fun activities taking place.

On Tuesday 3rd November a mini bus load of members attended a “Soup and Sing” event at Groby Community Centre. They sang along to songs from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s led by a fantastic entertainer Lizzie Rushby. They were also supplied with a warming bowl of soup and a presentation

by AGE UK on how to keep warm during the winter. The feedback from members was that they really enjoyed the day.

Halloween Party THE MAYFLOWER Club Halloween Party seems to have now become an annual event that members look forward to.

The party was held a couple of days before Halloween and members arrived on their broomsticks fully dressed in witches and monster fancy dress. They had made a real effort and members had even baked Halloween cakes including a pumpkin pie to be devoured by all. To add to the atmosphere the centre was decked out with Halloween decorations, spooks and monsters. Members had a go at making Pumpkin Jack O Lanterns and some brave souls had a go at Apple Bobbing with various degrees of success and a lot of water soaking. The less squeamish - but with some trepidation and dread - had a go at trying to identify mystery items contained in a rather nauseating and gory box of terror. Richard Hill from Matt Elliott Sports bravely judged the fancy dress competition and after announcing “Horrible Helen” as the winner fled the scene as quickly as he could. We also used the event to give out Police “No trick or treat” posters and advice on staying safe at Halloween. Thankfully none of our members suffered from any nuisance behaviour.

Culture, Faiths and Beliefs As part of our ongoing sessions on raising awareness and understanding of the diverse cultures, faiths and beliefs sessions in this country, Ian Vernon of the Pagan Federation visited the club on the 4th November and gave a fascinating talk on “What is Paganism”.

He gave an overview of the history, traditions, festivals and beliefs of the various forms of Paganism and what it means to be a modern Pagan. Not many people know that many “modern” festivals and traditions owe their origins to ancient Pagan beliefs and culture. Even the days of the week and names of the months have are directly linked to ancient Pagan gods or deities – look them up on Google it is quite fascinating.

As part of these sessions we have visited the Markfield Islamic Foundation to have a better understanding of the Islamic Faith and on 2nd December we are visiting the Shri Swaminaryan Temple in Leicester to learn about the Hindu Faith. If you would like to talk about your own faith, culture or belief at one of our sessions you will be most welcome.

Mercy Ships ON THE 18th November Alison Briggs gave us a fascinating talk on the voluntary health work undertaken by Mercy Ships worldwide.

Mercy Ships were founded in 1978 when a retired ocean liner called the Victoria was purchased. Over the next four years the vessel was gradually converted into a hospital ship with three operating theatres and a 40-bed ward. The vessel was re-launched as the Anastasia in 1982 with a crew of 350 volunteers from around the world. This was the first of a fleet of Mercy Ships that now visit ports in developing nations all over the world providing lasting change to millions of lives.

Mercy Ships are an international, faith-based voluntary organisation with a mission to increase access to health care throughout the world, serving the poor regardless of race, gender or religion.

I am really pleased say that our Mayflower Club project was held up as an excellent example of best practice of how we can support people to stay independent in our communities the community and fits in nicely with the future County Council’s adult social care strategy .

We are now working on a programme of exciting and interesting sessions for 2016 so, if you want to join, just turn up at the Centre on Wednesday afternoons 2pm to 4pm it only costs £1 per session and you get a “cuppa” and biscuits included.

Mayflower Friendship Club: Monday afternoon DON’T FORGET that the Centre is now running the Monday afternoon Mayflower Friendship Club from 2pm to 4pm.

This is a lovely social club for the more elderly residents who can enjoy indoor games and have light refreshments over a “cuppa” with friends old and new. It only costs £1 per session so, please come along and enjoy the company.

Spooktacular On Halloween Night itself the Etoile Performance Academy held a Halloween Spooktacular Party. Staff, pupils and indeed their parents came along to enjoy the party all kitted out in a fantastic range of Halloween fancy dress.

The children really enjoyed themselves with apple bobbing and a fancy dress parade as did the parents. It was an evening of good fun and was also a good way for the children and parents to enjoy Halloween without having to go out trick or treating.

PHOTOS

Scottish Ceilidh ON SATURDAY 7th November a Scottish Ceilidh was held at the Centre to raise funds for LOROS.

The Grim Reaper came for me but I fought him off with my hoover. I was Dyson with death.

27

From Ron Grantham (Markfield Community Association) from 8.30am to 12 noon.

Traditional music and dancing was provided by the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society and the bagpipe was stirringly played by piper Hamish McLeod. Those attending had a go at Scottish Country Dance and also had a sing along to songs including the Skye Boat Song, Amazing Grace, Mhairi’s Wedding and concluded with Auld Lang Syne. It was a wonderful event organised by Gwen McLeod and her friends and at the same time it raised £506 for LOROS.

This is a chance for you to either pick up a bargain or sell goods you may have. Entrance is only 50p and you can book a table by contacting Mick on 07747 052878.

New For 2016 THE FOLLOWING classes will start in January 2016 and more details will follow in next month’s edition of the Herald.

•

Charity Race Night DURING the evening of Saturday 21st November the Centre was packed with excited punters as horse and Rotary Club supported races were shown on the charities.

Each evening will include simple reflective worship songs, silence, big screen.

“Still Friday” 2016

prayer, readings and responses up to anJazz hour.Concert Charity Tables were banging and peopleand last All are Come along as and enjoy the peace. werewelcome. cheering on their horses DURING the afternoon of

eachJanuary race dramatically unfolded. 18th March 15th 19th February 15th April Sunday 15th November our Punters needed their break when very own Jane Thompson 20th Maycold food 17were th June 19th August hot and served to 15th July on yet another relieve the stress.

TheOctober event was 18thput 16th September 21st November wonderful Charity Jazz organized by villager Peter Dorans Nand o “Still Friday” in Concert in aid of DEBRA supported byDecember his colleagues from the Leicester charity supports Fridays 8.00De pmMontfort at St. Michaelthe & All Angels’that Church Rotary Club. The evening raised children and young over £500 for the Air Ambulance people who suffer from

•

the debilitating Butterfly Syndrome.

Foot stomping music was provided by the Hiss and Boo Jazz Band who donated their usual fee to the charity. Overall the event raised over £500 for DEBRA.

New at the Centre

Table Top Sales WEEKLY table top sales are now taking place at the Centre on Friday mornings

•

Mature Movers on Tuesday evenings from 6.45pm to 7.30pm – this is specifically for the over 50’s helping them to stay fit and active.

A new Pilates Class on Tuesday evenings from 7.30pm to 8.30pm A homemade wine club will be starting in early spring next year

Season’s Greetings Finally and on behalf of the Centre Staff and Management Committee may I wish all our Centre users, volunteers and supporters a very Happy Christmas and health and a peaceful 2016.

Christingles Christmas Eve Thursday 24th December St Michael’s, Markfield at 6.00pm St Mary’s, Stanton under Bardon at 4.00pm St Peter’s, Thornton at 4.00pm Christingle Events are suitable for all the family and all are welcome.

Oranges and all the bits will be provided for children to make and take home at the end

a Churches Together in Markfield initiative

An opportunity to relax, find peace and 'reflect' on our place in the world.

With creative suggestions for reading, thinking and exploring prayer.

Congregational Church Hall - 6-7pm Thursdays 28th January, 25th February, 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June

I couldn’t findasthe anywhere in our local shop today. They must have been out of stock.

Come for as long youOxo wish cubes and leave when you want.

28

Local Church Services Without Walls Christian Fellowship, 135 Main St Stanton Under Bardon Monday 7th Dec Coffee morning 10am Tuesday 8th Dec. Singing cafe at Shepshed library 10-11am Prayer meeting 6pm Friday 11th Dec. Singing cafe Loughborough library 10.15-11.15am, Coalville library 1.302.30pm Sunday 13th Dec. Service 10am Monday 14th Dec. Coffee morning 10am Tuesday 15th Dec. Singing cafe Shepshed library 10-11am Church dinner out 6pm Sunday 20th Dec. Carols by candlelight 4pm Sunday 3rd January Service 10am

Markfield Congregational Church 01530 242142 Sunday 13th December 10.15am The Sunday Club present “The Nativity” Sunday 20th December 10.15am A Service of Lessons and Carols Friday 25th December 10.15am CHRISTMAS DAY FAMILY SERVICE Sunday 27th December 10.30am Churches Together in Markfield United Service in Our Church Sunday 3rd January 10.15am Morning Worship followed by Communion Sunday 10th January 10.15am Morning Worship

Cross Hills Baptist Church, between Bagworth & Thornton Sunday 6th December 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 13th December 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper Saturday 19th December 7.30pm Carol Service with Marwood Brass Band and a visit from Santa!

Sunday 20th December 10.30am Family Service with the Sunday Club groups’ presentations

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

Sunday 27th December 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 3rd January 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 10th January 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper There is a Sunday Club in our hall for children & young people during the Morning Service. For further details, our contact list is in the Cross Hills News section in this magazine.

Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield Sunday 6th December 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Evening Taizé Service Thursday 10th December 2.00pm - 4.00pm Music Café Sunday 13th December 10.30am Morning Service 4.00pm Christingle Café Service Sunday 20th December 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Evening Carol Service Thursday 24th December 11.15pm Christmas Eve Communion Service Friday 25th December 10.30am Christmas Morning Service Sunday 27th December 10.30am United Churches Together Service at Congregational Church 6.00pm No Evening Service 2016 Sunday 3rd January 10.30am Morning Covenant Service 6.00pm No Evening Service Sunday 10th January 10.30am Morning Service 4.00pm Afternoon Café Service

Sunday 31st January 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm No Evening Service

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

Sunday 13th December 10.15 am Nativity Service at the Congregational Church 6.00 pm Holy Communion Sunday 20th December 6.00 pm Carol Service Christmas Eve 24th Dec 6.00 pm Christingle 11.30 pm Midnight Communion Sunday 27th December 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield Service at the Congregational Church 6.00 pm Joint Communion Service at St Peter’s, Copt Oak Sunday 3rd January 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 10th January 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Sunday 17th January 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 24th January 10.30 am “Something Different” Service Sunday 31st January 10.30 am Single Communion Service

St Peter’s Church, Thornton Sunday 13th December 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 20th December 10.30 am Holy Communion 6.00 pm Carol Service Christmas Eve 24th Dec 4.00 pm Christingle 11.30 pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 25th Dec 10.30 am Christmas Day Communion Sunday 27th December 10.30 am Joint Baptism Service Sunday 3rd January 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 10th January 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 17th January 10.30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 17th January 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield 6.00 pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 24th January 10.30 am All Age Service

Sunday 24th January 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Evening Service Sunday 31st January 6.00 pm Joint Evening Service at St Peter’s, Copt Oak

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon Sunday 13th December 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 20th December 10.30 am Carol Service

Sunday 17th January 10.30am United Churches Together Service at Methodist Church 6.00pm Evening Communion Service

Christmas Eve 24th Dec 4.00 pm Christingle

Thursday 28th January 2.00pm - 4.00pm Music Café

Sunday 10th January 10.30 am Holy Communion

Friday 15th January 8.00 pm “Still Friday”

Thursday 14th January 2.00pm - 4.00pm Music Café

Sunday 24th January 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm No Evening Service

10.30 am Morning Service

Christmas Day 25th Dec 10.30 am Christmas Day Communion Sunday 27th December 10.30 am Joint Baptism Service at St Peter’s, Thornton

Wednesday 27th January 10.00 am Midweek Communion and Coffee Sunday 31st January 10.30 am Single Communion Service at Stanton under Bardon

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth Please note: Services will be at Bagworth Community Centre Sunday 6th December 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 3rd January 10.30 am Holy Communion

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak Sunday 13th December 3.00 pm Praise Service Sunday 20th December 6.00 pm Lessons and Carols Christmas Eve 24th December 9.00 pm Midnight Holy Communion

Sunday 3rd January

I couldn’t find the TV channel changer, so I asked the kids if they’d seen it. They said she left me yesterday.

29

Sunday 24th January 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 31st January 6.00 pm Joint Evening Service

Catholic Church of St Wilfrid of York 53 London Road, Coalville, LE67 3JB Sunday Mass Saturday Vigil: 6 pm Sunday: 10 am See Newsletter on the website for details of weekday Mass times, Benediction & Confessions.

Parish Priest: Fr Tom Breslin – 01530 832098, www.stwilfspriest@gmail.com Parish Website: www.stwilfscoalville. blogspot.co.uk St Clare’s R C Primary School, Coalville: 01530 837747, www.st-clares.leics. sch.uk De Lisle RC College, Loughborough: 01509 268739, www.delisle./leics.sch. uk Markfield Masses in the Congregational Church Hall, Main St, beside the Chinese Takeaway • Wednesday 18 November 2015 at 7 pm All are welcome

E

E R F D

Sunday 17th January 9.15 am Holy Communion (said service)

m EL in IV im E um R Y or de r)

Sunday 10th January 3.00 pm Praise Service

Festive Craft Fayre Coalville Library Saturday 12 December, 10am-3pm Get in to the festive spirit as we’re joined by local shops and school choirs. Meet Santa from 10am-1pm (£4 per child) and have your face painted. 0116 3053565 Pantomime & Performances Christmas in the Trenches** The Record Office, Wigston Wednesday 9 December, 7-9pm An evening of commemoration of the events of 1915 in the Record Office’s reconstructed trench.

Experience Christmas on the western front with readings, carols and seasonal refreshments. Call for cost. 0116 2571080.

The Counterfeit Sixties Christmas Show Century Theatre Wednesday 16 December, 7.45pm A fantastic mix of 60s music/classic Christmas songs from the 70s. A great evening guaranteed to get you in the mood for Christmas! £15 advance, £17 on the door.

Christmas Before the Victorians Hinckley Library Friday 11 December, 12noon-1pm Join Nick Marshall as he describes the festive period before Queen Victoria’s reign. £3 library members/ £4.50 non-members.

0116 3052500.

An Old-Fashioned Christmas** Oadby Library Friday 11 December, 12noon-1pm Seasonal anecdotes and mince pies with Felicity Austin. £3. 0116 3058763.

Christmas Cheer @ Wigston Library Tuesday 15 December, 11am12noon A morning of festive music and readings including carols from All Saints School Choir.

Christmas Crafts Family Fun Crafts Melton Library Saturday 5 & Sunday 6 December, 10am-12noon. Join us for family fun with crafts. No need to book just drop in. £2 per family.

When Santa got stuck up the Chimney!

(Some of the above require pre-booking - please check before travelling.)

o

Sunday 3rd January 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Seasonal Events

(N

Sunday 27th December 6.00 pm Joint Communion Service

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30

Wonderland Wordsearch FIND THE NAMES OF 12 ALICE IN WONDERLAND CHARACTERS in this month’s Wordsearch puzzle and you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty prize of: A Main Course for Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine at The FieldHead Hotel.

To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - the names of 12 characters from Alice in Wonderland. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!).

Send your entry to: CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER! The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 2nd January 2016. Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s Trilby will win the Meal for Two at The Field Head Hotel. Good luck!

Find the following 12 Characters: FROG FOOTMAN • WHITE RABBIT • KING OF HEARTS MOCK TURTLE • CHESHIRE CAT • ALICE DORMOUSE • MARCH HARE • DUCHESS GRYPHON • CATERPILLAR • MAD HATTER

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

Address: ................................................................................................ .............................................................................................................. .......................................................... Postcode: .............................

Last Month’s Competition Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch Competition was: PHILIP WHETTON of The Blossoms, Markfield.

Congratulations! Your voucher will be sent to you soon.

Churches together in Markfield Warmly invite you to

Sing Carols outside the Co-operative Store, Main Street, Markfield on Saturday 19th December from 10am to 11am.

Come for as long as you can spare at this very busy time of year.

All welcome!

My friends tell me that cooking is easy, but it’s not easier than not cooking.

31

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