February 2014 herald magazine

Special Gluten-free issue!

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Village & Community Achievement Awards 2014 Sponsored by Tarratt Jewellers and The Melton Mowbray Building Society Here is an opportunity for you to show off the best of your village, to win recognition and reward your community.

The Rural Community Council (RCC) in their role of supporting and promoting rural communities in Leicestershire and Rutland invite entries for this year’s Achievement Awards The RCC Achievement Awards competition is open to all communities under 15,000 people.

You may enter one or both of the categories: Community (including Cleaner & Greener) and Community Halls.

Every village has an equal chance of winning; it doesn’t matter if this is your first time, or if you have entered in previous years. Just tell us what you are proud of, what you do for your community and how you look after everyone.

There is a £250 cash prize for the winner of each category Full competition details and entry forms can be downloaded from our website www. ruralcc.org.uk or contact us at Community House 133 Loughborough Road Leicester LE4 5LQ.

FEBRUARY 2014

Local Youngsters Watching the New Store Take Shape

Markfield PlayAway Playgroup visit the new Co Op

Since the new Co-Op project began, Markfield PlayAway Playgroup enjoyed regular visits to watch the builders as a new shop gradually appeared. There was excitement as diggers, big lorries and a large crane appeared on site.

We were very pleased when David the manager invited the children on a guided tour of the new shop. We went to buy some bread and jam to have at snack time and we were very pleased when David gave us some doughnuts and a tin of sweets to take back to Playgroup.

It was very interesting seeing the whole of the new building.

Over the months our Playgroup manager, Andrea has taken photographs of the developing shop and she will create a book, Store Manager David Hextall shows the children round the new Co Op which will be given to the History Group for their records.

I can remember the previous Co-op when we had a proper butcher’s shop with Alan happily serving the customers. We had to leave prams outside as the prams were rather large in those days and the shop was rather small. Very different to the lovely spacious shop we now have, enabling parents to take buggies and pushchairs in and making wonderful access for those in wheelchairs.

• Markfield Playgroup continues running 4 mornings a week and we are seeing a gradual increase in numbers. When the new houses are built on London Road we expect a few more children.

If you are interested in putting your child’s name down please come in and see us from Monday to Thursday 8-50 –12-35. Fifteen hours free childcare is available for children starting from the term after their 3rd birthday.

Also free childcare is available for 2 year old children, subject to their parents meeting certain government criteria, you can call me at any time to discuss this on 07971 254165.

For children who are not entitled to free childcare and would like to start Playgroup between February and July 2014 I am prepared to offer 2 sessions for the price of one.

Angela Berry

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 8th March - Adverts & Articles Needed By 22nd February

I saw a documentary on how ships are kept together; it was riveting.

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.

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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.

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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, Helen, Don, Jeanie, Jenny, Lauren, Lisa, Daisy, Stacey, Ennyd, Margaret, Ellie, Hannah, Charlotte, Mike, Rowan, John & Sue.

THE MARKFIELD & THORNTON THEATRE GROUP

Six hundred local people entertained by the annual panto!

Well, it’s all over. The rats have been banished, the children are back under Gudrun Glottlestopp’s tutelage, the burghers are chastened, the Mayor has reformed and the Piper is now married to his childhood sweetheart and living in a leafy suburb of Hamelin. (Though I feel that his mother-in-law, Lottie Bumgarden, may prove troublesome!)

We thoroughly enjoyed our Annual Pantomime (The Pied Piper of Hamelin 13-18 January 2014) and would like to thank all of you who came to join in the fun. (600 people came to see the Show!) We have been overwhelmed by the warm responses and congratulatory comments received.

Good family entertainment We are confident that we delivered, as promised, good family entertainment with colour, laughter fun and music and with appeal for all ages. We hope to continue to maintain a high standard of production in our locality, and, in order to do this, we need your support.

Every member of the MTTG team is valued, and we do always appreciate the individual contributions made in order to allow us to stage a production. It was a pleasure to have a junior troupe from the Linda Williams Academy of Performing Arts with us again and their delight and enthusiasm was mirrored by that of the cast members.

We also thank Eric, Marian, Jean and Mary who, although not MTTG members, undertook House Management for us and did an excellent job with very good humour. We couldn’t have managed without them!

If you are interested in joining us, then just come along to Thornton Community Centre, on any Wednesday evening at 7.30 p.m. where you will be made very welcome.

If you would like more details, then please ring our Chairman, (Andy Dobrowolski - the Polish rat!), on 01530 469714. (We do have a lower age limit of sixteen).

The dates of our next production are Wednesday 2nd to Saturday 5th April 2014. Watch this space for further details at a later date.

Muriel Walker

Is Facebook in trouble with young people?

Facebook was founded 10 years ago this month, in February of 2004. Now a recent study of how older teenagers use social media has found that Facebook is “not just on the slide, it is basically dead and buried”, and is being replaced with simpler social networks such as Twitter and Snapchat.

According to recent research funded by the European Union, young people now see the site as “uncool” and keep their profiles live purely to stay in touch with older relations, among whom it remains popular.

It seems that last year marked the beginning of what may become a sustained decline as young people are turning away from it in droves. Prof Daniel Miller of University College London explains: “mostly they feel embarrassed even to be associated with it… Where once parents worried about their children joining Facebook, the children now say it is their family that insists they stay there to post about their lives. Parents have worked out how to use the site and see it as a way for the family to remain connected.” Apparently the final straw for many children is when their parents ask to be their ‘friend’ on Facebook…

Meanwhile WhatsApp has overtaken Facebook as the number one way for young people to send messages, say the researchers for The Global Social Media Impact Study, which observed those aged 16 to 18 in eight countries for 15 months.

When I was a child my father attacked me with cameras; I still have flashbacks.

Markfield’s New Co Op proves popular Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in the Herald So without too much fanfare but lots of local interest the new Coop store opened in Markfield.

Popping in as I did on its first day of trading, it appeared everyone had had the same idea, as the place was packed out despite its increase in size. It certainly had made an impression and I think generally a pleasing one with the layout, range of produce and design all very modern and fitting The freebies that were being given away were clearly appreciated by people as they shifted very quickly, I knew a few people who managed to find a little extra room in the freezer to stick a loaf or two of complimentary Warburton’s sliced bread (I have to say I prefer the thick slice as opposed to the medium) It is also good to see that the new store is advertising for some new staff to add to the current compliment. It is good to have local employment opportunities for local people and anything that increases this is positive.

With the new store now open, the

work will begin on knocking down the existing store, completing the residential element and opening the car park for public use. The car park I am sure everyone will agree is now the most critical phase of the development and the sooner this is open for use the better. Parking has been a real problem and in the short term it is unlikely to get any better.

The County Council are currently consulting on changes to the parking restrictions along the Main St and at the top of the village near the Queens Head. The proposed changes on the Main Street cause me some genuine concern that they will make a poor situation worse. As it stands the idea is have restrictions on different sides of the Main St helping to create a chicane effect. The theory is that this will be a better outcome for all concerned.

I for one am not convinced and will remain a sceptic of the plans until proven wrong. The restrictions at the top of the village are however to be welcomed on what can be a dangerous turn.

The old Coop building is going to be totally demolished and with

this act another building which has served the community for longer than probably anyone alive could care to remember, will be gone for ever. I just about remember the days of the long counter with the majority of produce being behind the counter as opposed to being in front for self-selection. I am pretty sure that there is nothing of historical significance about the old buildings, which have in any case have been much changed over the years. In developing the new store the preservation of the old George public house was important as it is one of the oldest buildings in the village, this was importantly secured.

On the subject of demolition I could not help but notice the removal of a big part of the mature hedgerow which ran alongside London Rd and fronted the site of the new Jelson development. I am saddened to see such things happen although I was aware it was always part of the plan. It got me thinking just how long that hedgerow has existed. It is possible it has been around for hundreds of years, as the London Rd is a very old route and as its name suggested could have taken you all the way to the capital city. I will ask for a considered opinion on this from those who study such things as it is noteworthy when they are removed from our midst. This was a very fine hedgerow and such things are important features of our rural setting and we must try and preserve them just as we do with notable trees when we place preservation orders on them.

To finish this month I have received final confirmation that the local planning process has totally fallen into disrepute due to central government interference.

It is ironic that a government that came into power trumpeting a theme a local determination and accountability should than preside over the most wanton destruction of the local planning authority in modern history. The decision of officers at the Borough Council to recommend the building of two houses on a plot of land down the Nook, when the application is similar to many past applications for development which have consistently been refused for good reasons is deeply concerning.

However it is but one of many being made because today the pressure is on all planning authorities to approve everything and the safeguards that existed and which protected communities have been eroded.

Next Markfield Parish Council Surgery The next Markfield Parish Council Surgery will take place on Saturday 1st March 2014, between 11am and 12 noon at Markfield Community Centre.

I have a lot of growing up to do. I realised that the other day inside my fort.

Coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis What is coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease (pronounced see-liac and spelled celiac in other countries) is a lifelong autoimmune disease. It is caused by the immune system reacting to gluten.

How common is coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease is common and affects 1 in 100 people. However only 10-15% who have the condition have been diagnosed which means there are currently half a million people who have coeliac disease but don’t yet know. If a first degree family member (such as mother, father, sister or brother) has the condition then the chances of having it increase to 1 in 10.

What causes coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease is caused by a reaction of the immune system to gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. When someone with coeliac disease eats gluten, their immune system reacts by damaging the lining of the small intestine.

What are the symptoms of coeliac disease?

Symptoms range from mild to severe, and can include bloating, diarrhoea, nausea, wind, constipation, tiredness, headaches, mouth ulcers, sudden weight loss, hair loss, anaemia and osteoporosis.

What is the treatment for coeliac disease?

Once diagnosed, the only treatment for coeliac disease is a gluten-free diet.

Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye. Some people are also sensitive to oats.

Once gluten is removed from the diet, you should start to feel much better.

What is dermatitis herpetiformis?

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is the skin manifestation of coeliac disease which occurs as a rash that commonly occurs on the elbows, knees, shoulders, buttocks and face, with red, raised patches often with blisters. It affects around 1 in 10,000 people.

Book a stall

Craft Fayre in Thornton Don’t miss the Craft Fayre at Thornton Community Centre, from 10am to 2.30pm on Saturday 15th March.

There will be loads of interesting stalls including Fascinators, Salt Dough Items, Jewellery, Cards, etc.

If you would like to book a stall, contact Iris Gleeson on 01530 230453.

What pensioners really want With Spring on the way, here is good news: pottering around the garden is a pensioner’s favourite past time, according to a recent poll.

Gardening is the hobby which gives 38 per cent of over 65s the most pleasure in life. This is followed by going for walks, reading a newspaper, talking to friends and listening to the radio, according to the charity Age UK. “Having a positive attitude and being able to enjoy the little pleasures of life is really important for our well-being,” says Age UK.

Volunteers have a longer, happier life Volunteering may be as helpful to you as it is to the people you help: a recent study has found that it may well improve your health and make you happier.

People who volunteer report having lower levels of depression and higher levels of well-being than average, while some research even suggests that it promotes a longer and healthier life. A review of 40 papers on the subject by researchers at the University of Exeter has found that volunteers were a fifth less likely to die within the next four to seven years than average. They have lower depression and higher levels of well-being and life satisfaction.

Volunteers often say they want to ‘give something back’ to their community, but experts say they struggle to explain the benefits that volunteers apparently receive. An estimated 22.5 per cent of people in Europe devote part of their spare time to volunteering, compared with 27 per cent in America and 36 per cent in Australia.

I have a fear of speed bumps, but I’m slowly getting over it.

News from Thornton WI

Two very interesting talks planned for our February & March meetings!

OUR FEBRUARY SPEAKER on 13th February at 7.30 p.m. is TIM GOODMAN, whose talk is entitled “SPEAK TO ME OF LOVE”. That promises to be an evening not to be missed, and further details were in the January issue of the Herald.

There is to be a BRING & BUY stall and the Members’ Competition is for “A Poem That I Love”

Our March Speaker Tim Thornton (pictured, right) is a fourth generation jeweller who is originally from Kettering where his great grandfather, Arthur Augustus Thornton was apprenticed to a watchmaker in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter and his skills in watch repair became the foundation of his business when he began trading as A A Thornton in 1911. He, in turn, was succeeded by his son, Pat and, until his death in 1997, by Tim’s father, Simon.

Tim came into the jewellery trade in 1989, joining the family business in Kettering where he quickly discovered his passion for the trade. Eager to learn, he soon completed his Retail Jeweller’s Diploma, which led him to become a qualified Gemologist and Diamond Grader.

These skills have helped Tim on buying trips to Sri Lanka, the source of many usual and unusual gemstones. Subsequently he worked as Head of Jewellery at Fellows Auctioneers, handling jewellery, silver, watches and clocks, and for Christies as a jewellery specialist in South Kensington. The latter was a job that really fired his interest in antique jewellery - an interest which remains his passion.

He returned to Northamptonshire after his father’s death, and, in 1997 opened his shop, “T J Thornton – Jeweller” in Coventry Street, Market Harborough. It prides itself upon being like no other jewellery shop in the area, and the customer is guaranteed a warm welcome, unrivalled knowledge and a professional service.

Tim’s life is a very busy one! He works as a valuer to the jewellery trade in both the UK and New Zealand. TV appearances and numerous radio interviews have allowed him to air and share his knowledge of his specialist subject of antique jewellery. In addition, he offers talks to interested groups.

Due to his busy schedule, it was quite difficult to find a date convenient to Tim for him to come to talk to us, so we are delighted that we have been able to book him to speak to our WI on Thursday, 13th March at 7.30 p.m. in Thornton Community Centre.

I remind members that our March competition is for A PIECE OF ANTIQUE JEWELLERY WITH ITS STORY. You’re not expected to write a magnum opus - but perhaps just a line to explain the origin of the piece - as far as you know it!

You are very welcome to join us at any of our meetings. Admission for non-members is £3, which includes refreshments. You will find us to be friendly and welcoming. Nothing will be expected of you other than that you enjoy an evening in good company.

Muriel Walker (WI President)

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Keep the dream alive - hit the snooze button.

Uni Police News for Markfield researchers Incident at Hill Hole Quarry seek young pregnant women’s opinions On Sunday 19th Jan 2014 a male described as follows; 16 -17years old, white male, roughly 5’7” tall, with short dark ginger hair, with a spotty complexion wearing grey tracksuit bottoms, has indecently exposed himself to two young girls at Hole Hill, Hill Lane, Markfield.

Young pregnant women across Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire are being asked to take part in a study exploring young people’s attitudes to breastfeeding.

Researchers at Loughborough University are looking for pregnant women aged 14 to 20 to share their thoughts on breastfeeding to help them understand how young mothers make decisions about how they feed their babies.

Informal discussions will be held in small groups, or participants can chat one-to-one with a researcher in person or on the phone. Any travel expenses will be covered and refreshments will be provided.

Anyone interested in taking part should contact Katryna Kalawsky on 01509 228 775 or email K.E.A.Kalawsky@lboro.ac.uk

It is suspected that this person is a local lad, and we are appealing for anyone who may know who this male is. Both young victims are traumatised by the incident, and it is vital that this person is indentified.

The crime reference number is: LH/00331/14-6. Report calling Leicestershire Police control room on 101.

Next Beat Surgery: 21st February The next Markfield beat surgery will be held on Friday 21st February 14 at 11am at Markfield Library. This will be held by PCSO Ed Green, this is a good opportunity for the public to talk to a member of the local beat team and express any concerns they have, everyone is welcome!

PC Katie Harris

Don’t just sit there, do something!

Half of all seven year olds do not manage even an hour of exercise a day, according to recent research. Instead, sedentary lifestyles have become the norm for many, according to University College London’s Institute of Child Health.

Meanwhile, nearly a quarter of the population walks less than five miles a month, and nearly one in four adults rarely go for walks at all; 17 per cent of us never even venture more than 500 yards from our car!

The research was done by the National Trust, who is encouraging people to get out and enjoy the magnificent scenery of Britain that can only be seen on foot.

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I must’ve eaten too much salmon over Christmas. I just ran up an escalator that was going down.

County Councillor’s Report from David Sprason

Why your Library and Museum are the most important places in town I write my report this month with the knowledge that the County Council’s administration has put at risk of closure both Markfield and Desford libraries.

The offer to cut the running costs is for volunteers to come forward to help to run the libraries. The other area for cuts is the museum service that sees Snibston Discovery Park Museum in its current form closing. Other smaller museums like Donington Le Heath are being offered to volunteers to run. I would like to point out why I am not in support of this proposal.

Do we all know the value of our community services? And do we appreciate their importance?

In an increasingly digital world, do we see the role of libraries and museums as community and cultural centres at times undervalued and under fire?

We are seeing shrinking local authority budgets combine with the nonstop technological revolution, public library and museum services that focus on building community face-to-face, inspiring and educating patrons about art, literature, and music, and helping patrons engage in civil discourse can seem quaint. But it is precisely those shrinking budgets and the onslaught of technologically mediated life that make public libraries’ and museums cultural and community offerings more important than ever.

I will argue for the value that public libraries and museums bring to our communities. They are more than just books, banks of computers and exhibits; libraries and museums are still places where individuals gather to explore, interact, and imagine. I would like to highlight some of the specific ways in which libraries and museums add value to our communities and serve as cultural centres for our local residents. We can separate these

David Sprason

services into five very broad categories: 1. as community builders, 2. as community centres for diverse populations, 3. as centres for the arts, 4. as universities, and 5. as champions of youth.

All these highlight specific ways in which these unique and exemplary services say that they are more than just about information.

Examples that these services do act as community builders as over the years the special collections have grown out of specific community needs. The archives preserve historic artefacts, oral histories, digital history projects, and monographs relevant to the community, including minority groups. They are places where people come to know themselves and their communities. They serve as catalysts for addressing social problems. They champion, promote, and reflect important democratic values that are a part of the community’s political life.

The buildings as architectural structures are culturally relevant.

They provide important business resources, especially for small local businesses. They act as Community Centres for our diverse populations.

Recognising that diversity isn’t

just about ethnicity, language, or culture, they provide unique and adaptable spaces and services for people with disabilities. They strive to provide collections and services that represent various points of view, and often work closely with local artists to do so.

They provide access to the arts for all, not just those who can afford them. They serve as the “people’s university.” They offer opportunities for remote access, making it possible for those who can’t get to the library or museum to still access the cultural and educational offerings. They go beyond providing content to enabling residents to create their own content. They promote civil discourse. They teach teens important life skills.

Free tutoring, homework help programs, and summer reading programs for kids and teens help bridge the economic divide that impacts students’ academic performance. They are important partners in child development.

These examples are just a few of the many amazing things that these public buildings around Leicestershire (and the world) are doing to build and maintain strong community connections. I hope that these examples will help you to understand the important role that public libraries and museums play

in communities large and small.

In building this list I had two goals. First, I wanted to highlight some of the incredible work in which libraries and museums are engaged. From small village libraries that support local history groups to larger museums and town libraries. Museums and libraries across Leicestershire are building the community and supporting local culture in exciting ways that are inspiring. Hopefully, this will encourage you all to understand how these services offer community and cultural outreach services and build partnerships. As the former Councillor responsible for these services, I was a strong supporter of libraries and museums as community builders, I still believe these services strengthen neighbourhoods and champion the cultural lives of communities.

Second, as I have said, we all should know the value of our libraries and museums. It’s time to take the value we add and use that to advocate for not less funding but better funding and more resources.

When Churchill was asked to cut arts funding in favour of the war effort, he simply replied “Then what are we fighting for?”

Those who argue that libraries and museums are becoming obsolete don’t know what public libraries and museums do in the twenty-first century. I hope you use the reasons I have highlighted to understand these services, if we are all aware that libraries are more than books and technology, that museums are more than just a few old relics.

That Libraries and Museums build citizens they educate individuals and foster thoughtful communities.

They are essential components of communities—worth fighting for and worth funding.

Love me, love my smelly dog!

Crufts Dog Show will be full of thousands upon thousands of the most glossy and silky dogs imaginable next month. But sadly, that is not the full story.

More than one in 20 dog owners say they have had a relationship ruined due to their pet’s bad smell or muddy paws. More than a quarter admit that their friends even refuse to visit them because of their dog. And more than a half of dog owners suspect that they are not invited to their friends’ homes for fear they bring their pet along with them. Byotrol, a pet care company who carried out the survey, encourages owners to make the few small changes needed to their dog’s hygiene to ensure they smell of roses.

I turned up at nets wearing Cricket gear, and the ball smashed my Buddy Holly glasses.

Rural Community Council

Entries sought for Village Cricket Competition The Rural Community Council (Leicestershire & Rutland) is launching the Col Sir Andrew Martin Cricket Competition 2014.

The competition, sponsored by McDonalds, Hinckley, is seeking applications from village cricket teams in Leicestershire and Rutland.

If you would like to find out more about the competition and to receive an entry form please contact Tony Rogers through the RCC (Leicestershire and Rutland), 133 Loughborough Road, Leicester LE4 5LQ. The closing date for entries is Monday 14th April 2014.

W

Ratby Village Society Cancellation Through lack of response from those exhibitors invited to attend, it is with regret that we have been forced to cancel the ‘Great Outdoors’ event, which had been due to take place on 12th April.

Meetings Meetings are held in Ratby Village Hall, Main Street, Ratby at 8pm on the third Tuesday monthly except July, August and December, when there are no meetings.

Admission: members £1.60, casual guests £2.50 including refreshments.

• 18th February: AGM • 18th March: Egyptology - Dr Susan Tebby • 15th April: Technology of the English Country House - a talk by Wendy Freer.

Annual Show The Annual Show will take place on Saturday 9th August 2014 at Ratby Sports Club, Desford Lane, Ratby. The show is open to everyone - you don’t have to live in Ratby to enter. Schedules will be available shoortly.

Are you addicted to email?

hen did you first check your email today? How often do you check it throughout the day? Will your iPhone spend tonight in your bedroom with you?

This is a true story: recently a man was driving his family home from Cornwall and four hours into the trip, the man could stand it no longer - while roaring up the motorway at 70 miles an hour with his family in the back, he reached for his iPhone and began reading his emails. You are supposed to be shocked by that story - but in reality, are you secretly sympathetic? If so, you are suffering from the tyranny of email.

Some experts explain it this way: the communications technology designed to bring us together is driving us apart. Where once we used to interact with real people, now we make do with fleeting cyber-friendships on Twitter and Facebook. We have replaced meaningful conversation between close companions with terse 140-character messages and glib one-liners that are supposed to shock, amuse or annoy people we hardly know.

Also, over the months, we are doing our heads in. The more often we scroll down our social-networking pages and the more hyperlinks we follow, the less we are able to concentrate: our attention spans have fractured into a thousand tiny broken fragments.

During this Lent, why not consider curbing your use of the internet? Keep it to set times of day, and spend more time with the people around you.

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My mate came from a broken home. His dad was a shocker at DIY.

10

News from South Charnwood High School Future Chef Joshua Iyalla in 8JL competed against pupils from all over Leicestershire in the “Future Chef ” completion held at Loughborough College. The competition was open to 12-16 year olds, so Joshua was one of the youngest competitors.

Pupils were given 90 minutes to produce a 2-course meal for two people for under £7.00. For his main course Joshua decided to serve fish in a spicy tomato sauce rice, steamed vegetables and fried plantains (see picture) and his dessert was homemade ice cream on a biscuit base with a mango topping.

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Charity Christmas hamper raffle A total of £228.00 was raised by staff at South Charnwood High School in support of the “Build a school in South Africa” project linked to the University of Nottingham. The money will be used to buy building materials. A group of students at the university who are studying Architecture (including the daughter of a member of staff) at South Charnwood designed the school as part of their studies and will be flying to South Africa to complete the project at Easter 2014. Staff donated items to the hamper and then bought raffle tickets in an attempt to win it.

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Extracts from Stanton Under Bardon Parish Council Minutes Please note that these extracts are taken from the unapproved minutes and therefore may be subject to alteration. The information is kindly supplied to the Herald

by Stanton Parish Council.

Minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 7th January 2014 at The Youth Club, Stanton under Bardon, Leicestershire at 7.00pm

Staff and Year 9 pupils enjoyed a great week at the Outdoor Pursuits Centre at the Storey Arms in the Brecon Beacons. The centre was chosen because Aberglaslyn Hall where we had many successful residential visits is now closed. During the week children took part in a variety of outdoor activities including abseiling, climbing, mountain walking, gorge walking, caving and canoeing. Activities were also arranged in the evening. The picture above shows Emily Evans and Sage Wilkins about to set off on a gorge walk.

What did you do today?

How productive are you at work? The average office worker in Britain seems to be productive for just under three hours a day, a recent study has found.

It seems that visiting social media and trawling news websites are the biggest distractions to getting on with the job at hand, with 65 minutes a day spent on news, and 44 minutes on checking social media. Then there is the 17 minutes spent making hot drinks, and the 40 minutes talking to colleagues about non-work issues.

The study was carried out by the mobile phone app company vouchercloud. It concluded that while “no one likes a draconian office, but maybe some employers should be thinking about toughening up the rules a bit.”

COUNTY COUNCILLOR’S REPORT The Home School Transport consultation has been delayed for a month.

The Proposed LCC budget will see a reduction in expenditure on Road Maintenance, Children’s services, Community Budgets and some museums and Libraries will be closed.

A Footpath Diversion will be in place for the extension of Bardon Hill Quarry which is due to commence Spring 2014.

A concern was raised by the Council regarding the state of the footpath and highway near Cliffe Hill Quarry and also the planned temporary diversion for the closure on Main Street when drainage works takes place for the new housing in February 2014. Concerns with regard to the Bus services and where it would pick up from. Clerk to write to Roberts coaches for clarification.

CLERK’S REPORT A request has been received from Action Challenge UK to use the Recreation ground on a date to be decided in June as a rest stop for a charity 26 mile walk. This would involve having a marquee, first aid tent and port-a-loos on site. This was agreed as long as the relevant insurance policy was provided to the Council beforehand and that the site it left as it is found.

HBBC Community Initiative Grant A quote has been provided from Sovereign, and Wicksteed will be sending one shortly for a new roundabout and Swings, when received the application will be sent off. Councillor Matthew Lay has given his support to the application.

My girlfriend ditched me for a fisherman. I was gutted.

11

Volunteers urgently needed to help unique local charity As a registered charity the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation relies on its volunteer support and is currently looking for more volunteers to offer support, care and friendship to a wide variety of people.

Based at Ulverscroft, near Markfield, the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation has two properties and extensive grounds which are used to offer support, care and friendship the elderly, adults with disabilities and young people through a variety of services; including day visits to Ulverscroft Manor, Ulverscroft Grange Community Support and Wellbeing Centre with Tea Rooms and Charity Shop and the Yew Trail Outdoor Classroom and Creative Space.

Alan Norman, Chief Executive of the Foundation, said “we are fortunate to have a wonderful team of volunteers, and without them we would not be able to continue the work that we do; but as the Foundation continues to grow and develop the services it provides, the need for volunteers continues to increase.”

In order to promote the volunteering opportunities available the Foundation is holding a Recruitment Afternoon on Friday 21st February, 2014 at 1.00 p.m. at Ulverscroft Manor, Priory Lane, Ulverscroft, Leicestershire, LE67 9PH where individuals will have the opportunity to find out more about the work of the charity and the different roles on offer.

Mr Norman added “the Foundation has several volunteering opportunities, and we would be delighted to welcome as many people as possible on 21st February, when they will have the chance to find out more about this wonderful charity and how they can become involved. The Foundation appreciates that people have other commitments and therefore is grateful for any support given.”

For more information about the Volunteer Recruitment Afternoon at the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation, please telephone 01530 244914 or email admin@shuttlewood-clarke.org.

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Groby

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Sings

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All rehearsals at Groby Club

Monday afternoon choir 1.15pm - 3pm (Childcare facilities, lifts available) Monday evening choir 8pm - 9.30pm Friday after school Children’s choir: 3.40pm - 4.40pm Youth choir: 4.15pm - 5.15pm Rehearsals begin : Monday 3rd February, Friday 7th February

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Performances : Saturday 28th June 7.30pm and Sunday 29th June 3.00pm Groby Community College Sports Hall For more information, contact Helen Hayes on helen_hayes@btinternet.com or tel. 0786796332

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Apparently, diet books are popular because they appeal to a wide audience.

12

Garden Jottings with Ted Brown of Markfield

Chocolate Cosmos This is another plant, not much mentioned in current gardening coloumns, but once heavily reviewed.

A stunning plant, flowers the colour of chocolate, and which actually smells of chocolate. Its problem is hardiness - probably just a little less so than Dahlias. In welldrained soil and heavily mulched, it can get through the winter.

Alternatively, it can be grown in a pot, and taken into a frost free place over winter. Another way is to take cuttings, which are much easier to care for during the winter months.

Plant out in early June.

I notice in Sarah Raven’s catalogue, she refers to it as ‘Bournville Chocolate Cosmos’! The correct name is Cosmos atrosanguineus.

Two ways to earn a little extra cash Firstly, Christmas trees. Not everyone requires a full size tree, so aim for a pot-grown one about 15 inches tall. May be grown from seed, or perhaps simpler to purchase small seedlings as advertised in trade journals, usually by the hundred.

The ordinary one - Norway Spruce - is Picea abies, or sometimes Picea excelsa. The Nordmann is Abies nordmanniana.

The second suggestion is to produce the beautiful young Eucalyptus foliage, so loved by florists and flower arrangers. Choose the hardier types, sucha s the popular Eucalyptus gunnii and grow from seed - initially in pots, then planted out. Keep pollarded so as only young foliage arises.

propagate it, try to keep it isolated from other plants when the chances are high that seedlings will be very similar to the parent. But how does the ordinary gardener reproduce exactly propagated plants?

Commercially, this would be tissue culture, otherwise it is division, which is not easy. The simplest way is to pot up your plant and when established, take out of pot, make one cut carefully to divide into two, repot one half and replant the other.

Snowdrops Always beautiful, pick the odd flower to fully see and appreciate its markings.

Most of us are satisfied by the ordinary single or double types, but not the so-called ‘Galanthophiles’ (Galanthus is the correct name for Snowdrops) who seek - and will pay high prices for - any variant, maybe larger flowers or more probably different markings. Specialist nurseries cater for those wanting these named variants. Only recently I became aware of a local small nursery offering hundreds of these special Snowdrops. If interested, contact Andrew and Anita Thorp, Bungalow 5, Main Street, Theddingworth, Leics. LE17 6QZ - telephone 01858 880496.

A Different Fern Only just heard of this fern, said to be outstanding with its lightish blue fronds (leaves).

Its name is Phlebodium Pseudoaureum. Hardiness is not known, but probably needs to be grown as a house plant.

Eryngiums (Sea Hollies) All are good garden perennials.

A new one, Eryngium ‘Neptune’s Gold’ is already being tipped as a possible winner of the RHS Plant of the Year 2014.

Hellebores By far the best perennial for winter colour, the Christmas Rose (Helleborus niger) rarely blooms by Christmas.

When I had a nursery, several customers brought me pieces, said to always flower by Christmas. Sadly they never did for me.

There is Helleborus niger ‘Praecox’, latter meaning ‘early’. Maybe this is the one to try?

The favourite Hellebore is the Lenten Rose. This is usually called Helleborus orientalis, or more correctly Helleborus x hybridus.

Today’s plants are a mixture of several species, in a wide range of colours, and due to easy propagation by tissue culture, are reasonably priced. These orientalis types are easily grown from seed, always beautiful if a little unsure as to colour - growing plants will self-seed unless seed pods are removed.

If you have a particular favourite plant growing in the garden and wish to

I got shown round an empty perfume factory today. It made no scents whatsoever.

13

Almost £700 raised for Wishes4Kids

Ken, Glenda, Ann, Josie and their small team of helpers regularly organise charity social dances and raise a great deal of money.

Their latest ventures were a social dance in Bagworth in November and a social dance in Thornton on New Year’s Eve. The result of these occasions and donations was that £665 was raised for Wishes4Kids.

The cheque for this amount was handed over to Russell Brickett, (pictured above) who represents the charity, at one of the group’s weekly afternoon dances in January. They meet at Bagworth Working Men’s Club on a Wednesday afternoon from 2 – 4 pm.

Russell was able to say that the money would be used the following week to send a young girl to Disneyland. Unbeknown to her, she would be wearing a special badge which would ensure that all of the characters and helpers in Disneyland would go out of their way to make a fuss of her.

Russell has some very good stories to tell. He said that the charity has been running for over 10 years and in that time they have not been beaten by a child’s wish. He told us about the young lad who wanted to meet Elton John. The lad was taken back stage at the interval and Elton John spent 30 minutes chatting to him. When Elton resumed the show, he played the

World Book Day – 6 March

Would you like to encourage the children you know to appreciate books? Then why not invite them to join in the national celebrations of World Book Day, which takes place next month, on 6th March.

World Book Day was launched 17 years ago and aims to encourage a celebrations of authors, illustrators, books, and reading. World Book Day therefore sends schools packs of Book Tokens (more than 14 million this year; or one for nearly every child aged under 18 in the country!) and age-ranged World Book Day Resource Packs. Children can then take their voucher to a local bookseller and use it to pick one of eight (new and free) books.

Or, they can use it to get £1 off any book or audio book costing more than £2.99 at a participating bookshop. For more details of how to get involved, please visit: www. worldbookday.com.

World Book Day has a great aim: to get children closer to the books and authors they already love, and then introducing them to more books and authors they’ll love every bit as much in the future.

BEST WISHES: The cheque being handed over, left to right, Glenda, Ann, Ken and Russell.

first number. On the second number he played the first two notes and stopped. The orchestra behind him initially continued to play before realising that something was amiss. Elton then explained to the entire audience about meeting the young lad, pointed him out to the audience and then dedicated the song to him. The next day Elton’s manager contacted Russell to get the lad’s address so that Elton could write to him. Needless to say, the lad was made up.

Russell is clearly an exceptional person. He describes his work as ‘the best job in the world’. He always accompanies the children and young people on their wishes.

In the last year, he himself has been fighting cancer and on the day that he received the cheque, he had been told by his specialist that he did not need to be seen again.

Russell was obviously delighted.

It is a mark of the man that he saw the positive side of fighting cancer in the sense that it gave him the understanding of what the children and young people were experiencing. A remarkable man and a great charity that is well worth supporting.

Keith Smith (Anstey) Ltd 6 Stadon Road, Anstey, Leicester.

LE7 7AY. Tel: 0116 2362395

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My computer lets me save up to a dozen videos of musical concerts. It has a 12 gig memory.

19/12/2013 12:48

14

Superfast Broadband for Bagworth

Borough Councillors’ Report Chris Boothby & Ozzy O’Shea

For a long time now, we have been inundated with correspondence from Bagworth residents about the lack of superfast broadband that other villages seem to take for granted.

Although we have campaigned and lobbied for this to the ruling Lib/Dem administration at HBBC, they were always reluctant to commit to provide this service to its outlying villages despite other local authorities organizing adequate provision for theirs. However, it now seems that our hard work has paid off by way of a commitment by HBBC to sign up to an agreement that Leicestershire County Council has brought forward in a contract with British Telecom to provide the village of Bagworth with SFBB as it has been identified as a priority neighbourhood. This should be rolled out by the summer of 2014 and will benefit the whole of the village.

Barwell and Market Bosworth are the other two areas are identified so our next task is to include Thornton.

Looking for a local venue to hold your event?

Markfield Congregational Church Hall in Main Street is available to hire for parties, meetings etc.

The facilities include disabled toilet and a well equipped kitchen which can be used by prior agreement.

For bookings and details of hire charges please contact Mrs. Doreen Murby 01530 243977.

New Leisure Centre for Hinckley Residents may be aware that the old leisure centre in the middle of Hinckley needed to be replaced.

Now, HBBC have brought forward a plan to build a new one on the site of the former council offices at Argent’s Mead which is in the process of being demolished.

The administration has pushed these plans through despite our concerns that it will not be fit for purpose. It appears that no proper and meaningful consultation had been carried out with the user groups such as the Amateur Swimming Association. Whilst we fully support the idea of a

new centre, it has to be said that despite borrowing a further £4.5 million (which now takes their total borrowing up to £99 million) to build it, the majority of taxpayers across the Borough will probably not be able to access it as there are no direct bus routes to and from Hinckley. Furthermore, despite claiming the pool will be of competition standard and attract people into the Borough, this is not the case as the pool is not the required depth of 2 metres (min) and lacks the proper amount of seating. Despite having evidence from the Hinckley Swimming Club and the Amateur Swimming Association, at the Council Meeting we were outvoted on our attempts to ensure that first class facilities for all users would be provided.

The likelihood now is that prestige events and competitions that would have generated significant extra revenue will now go to other centres such as Braunstone.

Site Allocations Document HBBC has also agreed for this document to go forward for consultation

across the Borough before submission to the Secretary of State for approval.

The document will detail areas of the Borough to be set aside for development in terms of housing, employment, leisure, play and open space, etc up to 2026. Bagworth & Thornton have already has reached its capacity, however until this document is adopted there will be no protection from the ambitions of developers. The document also DOES NOT include Gypsy and Traveller sites as this will be coming forward in a later consultation period. The consultation period lasts from Monday 17th February until 5pm Monday 31st March.

Residents will not be contacted directly although details will appear in the Borough newspaper. Over 13,500 responses were received on the previous consultation and residents should take this opportunity to have their say.

Once again, we take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support and we are only a phone call away.

Regards

Chris & Ozzy Working for you.

I’m learning to joust in the evenings. Well, it’s actually Knight classes.

15

New Roof and Canteen at South Charnwood High School

St Peter’s Organ Restoration The new year has brought much activity at South Charnwood High School as regards building work.

The school roof is being renewed as part of refurbishment work funded by the Government. The old tiles are being replaced with new slate replacements which enhance enormously the overall appearance of the school.

At the same time the new canteen is being constructed on site. The old “horsa” canteen is finally being replaced with a brand new modular building which will certainly improve facilities as far as lunchtime provision is concerned. Whilst the old canteen holds many memories, it had finally reached the end of its useable life after over 55 years. When it was built in 1947 it was expected to be a temporary construction lasting no longer than 10 years! The new canteen will be a single storey building including a kitchen, toilets, storeroom and offices. Such is the quality of the building and its facilities that the school hopes to make it available for community function use.

The pictures show the construction of the new roof in the foreground and a completed section in the background and the positioning by crane of one of the bays which make up the modular construction of the new canteen.

As I write, on a bright sunny morning, I reflect how fortunate we are to live in sheltered midLeicestershire whilst our friends in coastal areas are battered by gales and floods.

Furthermore I wonder whether we appreciate our local heritage enough - I knew of a family, who have since moved from the village, who waxed lyrical about the Dukeries yet never walked around the reservoir, which they could see from their own kitchen window.

The same could be said about our village church, which has stood in our midst for some 700 years and, whose visitors book shows, is appreciated worldwide for its historical importance and for the family connections it engenders. And, as the heading of this article implies, to the organ within its building, now in need of restoration.

‘The organ has served the community well during the years it has been in St Peter’s ( it was installed here in 1911) and has been described, by those experts who should know, as a fine, well built instrument, worthy of preservation. It has contributed musically to village events such as concerts and recitals as well as in its prime function at Services, Weddings, Funerals and Christenings.

So far I acknowledge with gratitude financial contributionsfrom Hanson Brick, Hinckley & Rugby Building Society, Lee Brothers, Sinclair Estate Agents, as well as from personal friends and villagers. From further afield, grants are gratefully acknowledged from the Patston Trust and the Hickinbotham Family Trust. To use a phrase that an old friend habitually uses “Isn’t it amazing?”

If you too wish to join this list of contributors please send your cheque to me at 210 Main Street Thornton made payable to Thornton, Bagworth and Stanton under Bardon PCC.

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

16

When to call 999 The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays We now have SKY and ESPN Ask about our new menus!

See advert on page 21. www.bricklayersarms.net The Club, Thornton Main Street.

T: 01530 230251 Open To Non-members Sat 8th Feb: 2nd Gear - rock covers band Sat 15th Feb: The Strachans - pop and rock covers band with female singer 1st time at The Thornton Sat 22nd Feb: Last Stand - rock covers band, formerly Midlife Crisis PLEASE NOTE that it’s time to renew memberships.

Sky Sports In Both Rooms, Bingo Every Tuesday Evening. www.facebook.com/ thethorntonclub The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield.

T: 01530 242 496 Sat 1st March: Jan’s 16 Year Anniversary Bash - with SELINA - female vocalist.

Pub Quiz - last Thursday of the month.

ALL SKY SPORTS & BT SPORTS Bagworth Working Men’s Club, Station Road, Bagworth.

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

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

Sequence dances Sunday Nights. £1.50 admission 8 pm Tea Dance Wednesday afternoon 2 – 4 pm. £1 admission.

Ask about our free room hire for those special family occasions.

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

Thursday 6th Feb: Ladies Shopping Event Friday 21st Feb: MADONNA V SHANIA TWAIN

Fri 14th-Sun 16th Feb: VALENTINE’S DAY MEALS See advert on page 26.

The Bulls Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Saturday 8th Feb: THE DEL SHARRONS - keeping the 60s alive!

Saturday 22nd Feb: MAMA DON’T ALLOW - R&B/Rock n Roll Saturday 8th March: WAYNE CURTIS - male vocalist All FREE Entry!

Garden & Pub Games etc.

POKER NIGHT - Tuesdays starts at 8pm The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights Every Fortnight:- Next is Saturday 15th February with ‘King of the Road’.

Saturday 8th March: KRISIS Saturday 22nd March: MICHAEL VICKERS See advert on page 11.

Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Sat 11th Jan: Chris Robin - Quality Male Solo Sun 12th Jan: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 14th Feb: Just Jacob Very Good Male Solo Saturday 15th Feb: Limozine Quality 3 Piece Band Sunday 16th Feb: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 21st Feb: Lahna Raven Very Good Female Solo Saturday 22nd Feb: The Rapids Excellent Rock And Roll Band Sunday 23rd Feb: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 28th Feb: Lee O’neil Well Worth Seeing Saturday 1st March: Lee Lard - Top Class Comedian With A Quality Female Vocalist Kelly Brazil Sunday 2nd March: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 7th March: Michael Jones - Easy Listening From This Guy Saturday 8th March: T.b.a Sunday 9th March: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz

Leicestershire Police is asking people to think carefully before they dial 999 as trivial calls could potentially put lives at risk in a genuine emergency.

In spite of regular appeals, timewasters in Leicestershire have made inappropriate 999 calls with requests for telephone numbers, travel directions and other non-urgent enquiries.

Our call takers will deal with those genuine calls that need a police response but some people call 999 when they don’t actually need the police or when the situation is not a genuine emergency.

Every minute spent speaking to a caller with a non-urgent enquity jeopardises immediate responses to genuine emergencies, so please think before you dial.

You should only ring the 999 system if there is a direct and immediate threat a to life / limb or to property. Prompt attendance is required to catch suspects in the act of committing a crimeTogether or Churches have just committed the crime and are in the vicinity. in Markfield Please do not use the 999 system to report general nuisance or antisocial initiative behaviour e.g. noisy neighbours or an abandoned car.

You can contact Leicestershire Police on 101 for every other nonsituation - for where no immediate police response is ...emergency is an opportunity to example relax, find peace within ourselves and 'reflect' required or does not require attendance at all. suggestions for reading, on our place in the world. police It will offer creative If you have crime in Leicester, Leicestershire and thinking andinformation exploring about prayer.

Rutland, you can contact us on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous Methodist Church - 6-7.30pm on 0800Trinity 555 111.

Please check any correspondence you may have received from Thursdays 13th March, Leicestershire Police as this13th will oftenFebruary, include a telephone extension number to assist with swift and direct contact withMay, the right12th people toJune assist with 10th April, 8th your enquiry.

Come for as long as you wish and leave when you want. No intrusive If you know the identification (collar) number of a particular officer, you questions, though people will be around if you need to talk or pray with can use our voice messaging system to leave them a message. Telephone someone. will when be available. are 101 - followRefreshments the instructions and prompted, All enter thewelcome. officer’s identification to leaveKaren a message.

Further number information: (249829) or Rosemary (242844) Please note these emails are not monitored 24 hours a day. Please do not use them to report a crime or if you need to contact the police urgently.

Please call 101, or 999 if it is an emergency. Calls to 101 cost 15p for the entire call from both mobile phones and land lines.

Women's World Day of Prayer Friday 7th March 2014

"Streams in the Desert"

prepared by the Christian women of Egypt

Markfield Court at 11.00 am St Michael’s Church, Markfield, at 2.30 pm St Mary’s Church, Stanton under Bardon, at 7.30 pm Everyone (men, women and children) is invited to join in one of these services, which are always inspirational.

WWDP is an international, inter-church organisation which enables us to hear the voices of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns and prayers. Egypt is one of the oldest civilisations in the world, which has long been home to Coptic Christians. Since the uprising in 2011 there has been conflict between religious groupings. Political change affects individual lives and we pray with the women of Egypt for peace.

We envisage a great wave of prayer, rising with the sun over the island of Samoa and sweeping across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas, coming to rest in American Samoa some 36 hours later. By then WWDP services will have been celebrated in over 170 countries.

People think being a hostage is hard. I could do it with my hands tied behind my back.

17

March: the month of self-harm awareness

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More than 22,000 children and teenagers were treated in hospital in 2012 for selfharming. And they were just the ones who were discovered.

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Self-harming has been called the new anorexia. An astonishing amount of young people are cutting themselves. Sadly, unlike anorexia, cutting can be kept secret for much longer.

What can possibly be the attraction of causing yourself pain, bleeding and scarring? Many self-harmers seemed tortured by feelings of intense self-hatred and loathing, and say that this is a way of reducing the intense emotional pressure that they feel. Some experts believe that the contemporary craze for tattoos is a part of this desire to seek emotional relief through self-inflicted pain. Whatever is going on, self-harmers are starting ever younger- in 2012 cases involving children under 14 rose by 30 per cent.

There is a website www.selfharm.co.uk which is run by Christians, and which gives people information about self-harm, points out helpful organisations, and provides resources such as teaching packs. There is also a forum so that young people can post their stories, poems, and artwork and encourage each other. The site is monitored, to keep it safe.

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I’ve just seen a huge Egyptian woman sticking her backside out the window of a car. It was a two-ton car moon.

18

LETTER

4free-in-Thornton A Service exclusively for the villagers of Thornton

In the December issue of The Herald, Martin Foster wrote about two school friends who had not met since the outbreak of World War II, namely Gwen and Margaret.

The ‘4free-in-Thornton’ Service offers residents of Thornton the opportunity to acquire goods and services absolutely FREE. Everything on the website has to be, and is, FREE. The idea is that if you live in Thornton and you have something you are prepared to give away 4free, or you are willing to provide a service that is free, or you can offer a free trial of some kind, we will advertise it for you, 4free.

Lots of interesting items have been made available by registered ‘Users’ during the last few months including a ladies push bike, a gentleman’s push bike, a large outside trampoline, a bathroom shower unit, a set of bedside tables, a single-size quilt, a complete cricket set, a complete ‘Beaver’ uniform, dining chairs, etc. etc….. and they were all absolutely FREE The ‘Service’ works by putting Thornton villagers who have registered as ‘Users’ of the ‘Service’ in touch with one another. When we (Kathryn or Peter) receive an e-mail from a registered ‘User’ interested in a particular service or item being advertised on the web-site, we send an e-mail to the advertising villager. We supply the advertiser with the phone No. of the interested villager so that arrangements can be made for viewing or collection etc.

The ‘4free-in-Thornton’ website also gives details of ‘Services 4free’ such as a ‘Pet finder’ service and a ‘dog-walking’ service which are both absolutely free; and if you would like to try Yoga you’ll find details of a Free trial on the website which is absolutely FREE. The ‘4free Service’ is by e-mail only, but Thornton villagers who do not have an e-mail address can still register as a ‘User’ by using a ‘Care of ’ e-mail address of a friend or a family member; with their permission of course.

No personal details of any Thornton villagers held on our contact list will be shown on the website, or on any of the ‘group e-mails’ which we send out periodically to all Thornton villagers whose e-mail we have on our contact list. (If you’re not receiving our e-mails, and you would like to please e-mail us……the e-mail address is on the website) For maximum security, all Thornton villagers wishing to use the ‘Service’ will need to register as a ‘User’ of the ‘Service’; details on how to register can be found on the website: www.4free-in-thornton.yolasite.com Many Thornton villagers have already registered as a ‘User’ of the ‘Service’ but for the ‘Service’ to be really effective the aim is to achieve as wide a range of coverage of Thornton villagers as possible.

It’s really easy to register as a ‘User’ of the ‘Service’ so if you would like to be part of it please take a look at the website and if you would like to register, or have any questions or queries, please e-mail Kathryn or Peter using the address shown on the website.

Kathryn & Peter Shaw 285, Main Street, Thornton

a

Churches Together in Markfield initiative

... is an opportunity to relax, find peace within ourselves and 'reflect' on our place in the world. It will offer creative suggestions for reading, thinking and exploring prayer.

Trinity Methodist Church - 6-7.30pm Thursdays 13th February, 13th March, 10th April, 8th May, 12th June Come for as long as you wish and leave when you want. No intrusive questions, though people will be around if you need to talk or pray with someone. Refreshments will be available. All are welcome.

Further information: Karen (249829) or Rosemary (242844)

I thought readers might like to know who they were. Gwen was Gwen Cowlishaw and Margaret was Margaret Oxford.

I am Gwen Cowlishaw’s sister and she wrote her memoirs of time spent in the W.A.A.F. for the Church Magazine where she lives in Wimbledon at the request of the vicar. I have enclosed extracts for possible inclusion in The Herald - see below.

Ann Bodycote (nee Cowlishaw)

Memories Of My Time Spent In The War

By Gwen Cowlishaw March 1939 I was aged 17½ and working as a shorthand typist in Leicester when an opportunity arose to enlistin the W.A.A.F. (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force) which I did.

We had to report to a house one eveningeach week to be taught how to march, how to salute and to learn the history of the R.A.F.

September 1939 On September 3rd, war was declared, and during that month I was called up and posted to an R.A.F. maintenance unit on the docks in Newport, Monmouthshire as a teleprinter operator, who had to liaise with R.A.F.Station Feltwell in Norfolk. The unit housed many empty shell cases and it was my responsibility to inform Feltwell when shell cases were being despatched.

January 1940-1941 I was posted to Feltwell, to the Signals Unit which housed Nos 37 and 38 Wellington Bomber Squadrons.

No.38 Squadron was eventually moved to the Middle east and replaced by No.75 New Zealand Squadron.

On 7th July 1941, a raid on Germany by No.75 Squadron was attacked by a German night fighter which opened a fuel tank in the starboard wing and caused a fire. Sergeant Ward, who was the second pilot, crawled out through the narrow hatch on the end of a rope and managed to put the fire out. He crawled back and the aircraft landed safely at the emergency landing field. A very brave effort indeed, and Sergeant Ward was awarded the Victoria Cross.

Later that year, King George VI and his entourage came down to Feltwell for the presentation. I was on parade that day and felt very proud. Sadly, Sergeant Ward was lost in action in September and was buried in Hamburg.

His medal was held by the R.N.Z. Air Force and returned to his brother in 2006.

1942-1945 I was posted to many R.A.F. stations around the country, and in March 1945 was posted to Algiers in North Africa with a party of W.A.A.F, and were housed in a hotel. The room allocated to me had a plaque outside, stating that General Eisenhower had planned the Italian and Sicilian landings in that room!

There was an Italian Prisoner of War camp quite near the hotel and one day an army officer came to say he would be sending each day 50 P.o.W.s to work in and around the hotel. Very few spoke English, and the majority seemed to want to work in the kitchens, but they were used to help clean the hotel and the surrounding gardens.

1946-1948 I was eventually posted to Egypt, initially to Cairo, then moved to the Canal Zone to 107 MU Kasfareet, and finally to El Hamra, which became a transit camp. W.A.A.F were being flown in from Changi in Singapore to await onward transport to the UK by troop shipsthat were calling at either Port Said or Suez, providing they had suitable accommodation available. Once there was a delay of approximately two weeks and we queried this, only to be told that the American forces had commandeered all ships to get the G.I. brides home to America. But very soon, ships for us were made available. I sailed home in 1949.

I finally resigned from the W.A.A.F. at the end of January 1959 having served almost 20 years and thoroughly enjoyed it.

I was born to be a pessimist. My blood type is B Negative.

19

News from Cross Hills Baptist Church Serving the villages of Thornton & Bagworth plus the surrounding area Lent Course Rev David Butcher will kindly be leading our Lent Course again this year and details will be in the March issue of The Herald.

We’ll be pleased to see anyone who may be interested.

Olive Branch Club This new support group was launched by our Parish Nurse in the Autumn of 2013.

The Olive Branch Club is a small friendly adult group and we meet on the first Monday of each month.

Our third meeting was held in January in the warm carpeted hall at Cross Hills Baptist Chapel.

For the very first meeting in November, we had a sing-song kindly led by George on his key board.

The Christmas party was great fun.

Lots to eat and Santa had hidden little presents for everyone to find in the chapel. After that we had a discussion about ‘healthy eating’ at the January meeting. Lots of food to try, including ‘naughty food’, of course, and reminiscences of dripping on toast and other delights!

All adults are welcome to the Olive Branch Club, particularly if you are a carer, have a disability or long term condition, family worries or are just lonely.

The Parish Nurse is available for a confidential chat or advice if required.

The next meeting is on Monday 3rd February, 2pm – 4pm.

All meetings are free, however donations are welcome.

• February 3rd : Sittercise with Ruth (seated exercises).

• March 3rd : Concorde with Avril and Vera (Bring your memorabilia!).

• April 7th : Easter Bonnets.

If you need any more information, please contact me on my number below. Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Vera (Parish Nurse)

For details of our services, please see the Church Service Information towards the back of this magazine.

We are known as a very friendly and welcoming church and look forward to meeting you.

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

On behalf of the Cross Hills Church family

Seeing the doctor - for loneliness Up to 10 patients a day visit each GP surgery because they are simply lonely. And nearly half of doctors say they are not confident that they can help their condition.

Those are the findings of a recent survey carried out for the Campaign to End Loneliness.

“Far too many people are feeling so lonely - and are at a loss about what to do about it - that they end up going to see their doctor,” says director Kate Jopling. She is calling for a more co-ordinated public health response that targets resources to help support lonely people. Figures suggest that almost three million people over 65 are lonely.

Statistically, 6 out of 7 dwarves aren’t Happy.

20

NEWS from Markfield Community Sport Relief – Markfield Magic Mile

includes light refreshments. The club is open to anyone aged over 50 as well as those who care for the elderly or the sick. We are already planning a programme of informative and fun inputs from various organisations that support people in the community. For example on the Wednesday 19th February Sandi Clarke will be hosting a delightful Memory Lane event bringing along shopping items from the past that will make you smile and recall the “good old times”. On Wednesday 5th March Sandi will be giving a talk on coping with dementia. We are also in the planning stages of providing other useful talks such as the work of the Royal Voluntary Service, staying safe at home, healthy life style, preventing and surviving strokes as well as talks on local services and clubs available. But its not all “preaching” as we aim to also provide arm chair fitness sessions as well as time for a good old social “natter” with a few indoor activities thrown in. So, if you are interested, just come along on Wednesday afternoons and join in.

Staying Alive Project In March we are planning to hold a series of Staying Alive courses that will include:

Once again the Centre will be hosting the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile to raise funds for Comic Relief.

The Markfield Magic Mile is part of hundreds of similar events taking place across the country on Sunday 23rd March as part of the bi-annual Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Games. The Markfield Magic Mile has a distance for everyone and you can choose from the following: 1 Mile : If you just want to toddle round with your children and pets or just looking for some fund raising fun this is ideal for you.

3 Miles : To step it up and get your pulse racing, 3 miles is for you. Do it with friends and family to raise lots of cash and cheers.

6 Miles : At almost 10k this is your chance to up the pace and raise some serious cash.

Why not make a day of it and come along in fancy dress as there will be a prize for the best fancy dressed person or team.

Our event will take place on the sports field at the Centre starting at 1pm.

You can book your place by visiting the website www.sportrelief.com or at the Centre on the day. Hopefully the weather will be as good as the last time we held the event in March 2012 when we actually enjoyed a lovely hot and sunny day and raised £1,500 for Comic Relief. Let’s do even better this year. The Centre will be open for refreshments, changing etc so, get your running shoes ready for a fun day and help raise funds for Comic Relief or your own favourite local charity

Markfield Mayflower Club As mentioned in previous editions of the Herald we have secured some funding from the Hinckley and Bosworth Voluntary and Community Services Board to start a pilot project aimed at supporting the those elderly, vulnerable people and carers living in the village and surrounding villages and rural areas.

1. Essential First Aid (all ages) provided by the St.John’s Ambulance Service 2. Child and Vulnerable adult protection information on what to look out for and how to seek help and advice on concerns you may have.

3. Alcohol and Substance Abuse awareness and information on how to tackle any concerns or where to get help and support from.

There will be five courses being held in the afternoons, evenings and weekends. The courses are of three hours duration so you need to be committed to coming along but at the end of the day you will be better equipped to save a life. The courses are free although any donation would be appreciated and are open to any resident aged over 18 and to those who work in the voluntary sector. Places are limited to 50 people so, if you are interested, please book in advance. Dates of courses will be published in the next edition of the Herald.

This project has been funded by the Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum and people from these areas are most welcome to join in.

EVENTS AT THE CENTRE BBC Radio Leicester – Sing Christmas I know that Christmas is now becoming a distant memory but I must mention those brave souls who braved the storm on the Monday evening before Christmas to come along to the Centre and join in the Radio Leicester Sing Christmas live show.

We gathered round the radio to join in with Radio Leicester presenter and various choirs singing all your favourite Christmas Carols. Bear this in mind for next Christmas and have an lovely pre Christmas sing along.

According to Carers UK there are about 6.5 million people caring for sick and elderly relatives in the UK and with ever dwindling financial resources is about time we looked at ways to provide information and support to help our ever growing elderly population and those that give up a lot of their time to care for them.

We are calling the project the Markfield Mayflower Club not only because the Centre is located in Mayflower Close but also in recognition of the human achievements of the those who set out on the Mayflower ship in August 1620 to seek a better life and religious freedom in the New World.

These pilgrims had to endure severe weather conditions, hardships and lack of resources and without banding together and supporting each other they would not have survived. I know life in Markfield and the surrounding villages is not so extreme however, we could at least follow the Mayflower example and help and support others who need that extra bit of care.

The new club will be available on every Wednesday afternoon from 2pm to 4pm starting Wednesday 12th February. Entry is only 50p per person and

My girlfriend left me because of my obsession with health & safety. I said, ‘Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.’

21

& Sports Centre Burton Family Celebration

Book No w for Valen tine’s Da y 4 Course Meal £22.50

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

Wednesday is

On Saturday 4th January the Burton family and friends came together to celebrate the 80th birthday of dad and grandad Clive (Oggy) Burton.

Although Oggy hails from Braunstone and previously lived in Groby he has settled in Markfield to enjoy his retirement. He was joined by his son Rob and daughters Susan and Caron as well as grandchildren. Many happy returns Oggy from all at the Centre.

BODY BLITZ This is a fantastic full body work out for all ages and abilities that will improve your core strength and upper body through cardio workouts and weights (optional).

“STEAK NIGHT” 2 Steaks, With Hand-Cut Chips, Peas, Tomato, Mushrooms & Two Glasses of House Wine - £18.95

Traditional Sunday Lunch 1 Course - £8.00 2 Courses - £10.00 3 Courses - £12.00

With personal service to your table

Home-Made Pie 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!

The work outs take place at the Centre on Monday evenings 7pm to 8pm.

For further details please contact Kathy on 07946 562909.

MARKFIELD BOOT CAMP Due to popular demand the Markfield Boot Camp will be holding additional sessions at the Centre on Saturday Friday 31st January.

This is in addition to the sessions held on Wednesday evenings starting at 7pm. The Boot Camp will help you to get fit, get strong, have fun and build your confidence. People with all levels of fitness are welcome for only £6 per session.

YOUTH CLUBS The Centre now runs weekly junior and senior youth clubs as follows: Junior Youth Club on Tuesday evenings 7pm to 8.30pm for those aged 8 to 12 years.

The Senior Youth club is on Monday evenings from 7pm to 9pm for those aged 13 to 18 years old. Just come along and join in the fun.

BOOK YOUR MONEY SAVING SPECIAL OFFER 2014 Don’t forget that we still have a special offer available of free room hire for bar functions that will help you out with the cost of special events, family occasions, parties and other celebrations.

This offer is currently valid until 31st March For further information please contact the Centre.

For booking and enquiries please contact Markfield Community and Sports Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield LE67 9ST, ring us on 01530 242240 or email at markfieldcommunitycentre@hotmail.co.uk Visit our website at www.markfieldcommunitycentre.com to see our facilities, latest news, photo gallery and information about the Centre.

Ron Grantham My mate’s daughter’s horse will only come out when it’s dark. It’s becoming a night mare.

22 Casual vacancy: - Mr M Lay welcomed Mrs M Bowler to the Parish Council.

POLICE REPORT: PCSO 6082 E Green had sent his apologies and had emailed the following report: PCSO P Cotton attended the meeting.

MARKFIELD CRIME FIGURES01/12/2013 TO 31/12/2013 Burglary from dwelling x3 • 16/12/2013- Between 18:00 and 18:20 a front door forced to a property on Markfield Lane, an untidy search was conducted and electrical items were stolen.

• 18/12/2013- Between 07:00 and 17:00 a rear door to a property on The Green was damaged and used to gain entry, electrical items were stolen.

• 28/12/2013- Sometime during the day an attempt was made to enter a property on Leicester Rd. The attempt was unsuccessful and no property was stolen.

PCSO P Cotton reported that as a consequence of the high rate of burglaries around the locality a specialist Burglary Team had been set up. A couple of suspects had been caught in the Skegness area, these suspects had now admitted to the burglaries.

Theft from motor vehicle x2 • 05/12/2013- Number plates removed by unknown persons from a vehicle parked up at the Flying Horse garage.

• 02/12/2013- A tax disc and its holder were stolen from a vehicle which was probably left unsecure on Oakfield Avenue.

Theft of motor vehicle x2 • 14/12/2013- A vehicle was taken from a property on Rectory Rd, Suspect was identified and dealt with.

• 17/12/2013- A broken down motor cycle was left locked and secure on Whitwick Rd, unknown persons had removed locks and stolen vehicle.

Theft x2 • 23/12/2013 and 31/12/2013- Theft of fuel from the BP garages Mr M Lay and Mr T Lockley asked for police assistance to deal with a significant increase in antisocial behaviour committed by a large group of youths around the community centre site. PCSO P Cotton agreed to attend the community centre.

Local History Group – Proposal to erect a War Memorial in Markfield adjacent to the Church Wall: - The planning application had been submitted to HBBC. Mr M Lay had spoken to a representative of “Churches Together” to discuss a united service including the British Legion to be held on Remembrance Sunday at 11.00am with the War Memorial as a focal point.

The members also agreed that a formal Dedication Service should be held between June 2014 and October 2014 (before Remembrance Sunday).

Mr B Gannon would follow this matter up with War Memorials Project Coordinator Liz Blood.

Mr B Gannon stated that the design and details of the Memorial inscription had been sent to the stonemason.

Extracts from Markfield Parish Council Minutes The following items were among the topics discussed at the meeting of Markfield Parish Council on Tuesday 14th January 2014. The information comes from the unapproved minutes, and therefore may be subject to correction or alteration.

Funding: Anticipated total: £5,600 Miners’ Welfare Institute - £2,000 The Herald - £2,000 COUNTY COUNCILLOR’S REPORT: – Mr D Sprason gave the following report: TRO Ashby Road/Main Street junction: Mr D Sprason had met with Mr L Measures and had expressed the Parish Councils comments from the last meeting (item 7.1 December 2013). As a result Mr L Measures had put forward an amended scheme on 6th January 2014.

The Parish Council agreed with the following amendments: Main Street: The original new 1 hour parking bay outside of the chip shop Nos. 106 had been moved across the road.

London Road: The original TRO had been extended between both Croft Way junctions, except for the bus stop clearway, as this was a school bus drop off point and busy crossing for children attending Mercenfeld Primary School.

Leicester Road: - The original TRO been extended from Main Street to The Paddock except for the bus stop clearway.

The Parish Council still had concerns about: Main Street: - The proposal for a new 1hr parking bays, 8am-6pm, MonSat, no return 1hr. This runs from the new Co-Op store car park entrance to 100 Main Street and then crosses over the road outside of the car park with a new TRO running on the opposite side of the road. This created a chicane effect which the County Council felt would slow traffic down. The Parish Council did not agree that this would be the case, the Parish Council preferred the permitted parking to run all the along one side of the highway or the other to prevent confusion and allowed a better flow of traffic.

Markfield Library: - Mr D Sprason stated that Leics County Council had identified the Library as one of those under threat of closure, unless they could be handed over to other organisations to run ie.

Parish Councils/Voluntary Groups.

The cost of running the library was approximately £25 000; half of this cost was due to staff costs, which the County Council were looking to reduce. Mr D Sprason was currently trying to clarify some sort of support package.

Mr B Gannon asked if the primary school had been approached to support the Library, as one of the main users. Mr D Sprason stated that he had already approached the school and was hopeful. At this time he suggested that a grant of £4,000 would be sufficient to keep the Library running and asked if the Parish Council

would be able to support with a grant.

Mr T Lockley stated that without details of a support package and without knowing how long or whether core Library expertise would remain, it was difficult to make an informed decision.

Mrs M Bowler asked if the building would be retained and stated that it appeared that some very crude accounting had been done and disputed the viability of making staff redundant and replacing with volunteers. She asked if Leics County Council Reserves could be used to support Libraries. Mr D Sprason stated that any Reserves had already been spent.

Mr M Lay stated that the Parish Council was not in a position to take on the management of the Library, however long term the Parish Council may be able to look into some sort of grant funding. Much more details and discussions to look into other options with other partnership organisations needed to be done but the timescale was so short. Mr D Sprason stated that the proposed cuts wouldn’t come into force until 2015.

He stated that unfortunately the Community Budget had to be cut from £4million to £2million and Museums and Libraries were the easiest targets.

Mr B Walmsley asked Mr D Sprason if he could find out the footfall for the Library before the next meeting – Mr D Sprason agreed to do this.

Mrs M Bowler asked if Leicester City Council were planning to sell off Libraries – Mr D Sprason confirmed this was the case.

Mr M Lay asked when more details would be known – Mr D Sprason stated that this was unclear but he planned to convene a meeting with the Library Service after Easter.

Leics County Council – Council Tax Increase: - Mr D Sprason informed the members that the Council’s proposed increase was 1.5% for 2014/2015.

BOROUGH COUNCILLOR’S REPORT Village Plaques and Village Trail: - Previously resolved: The Parish Council would design and purchase an information board, similar in nature to the notice board at the junction of Neville Drive and Main Street. This would be placed inside the existing car park on Main Street in the proximity of the disabled space. This would incorporate MLHG “Village Trail” with a caption “You are here”.The subcommittee had met and came up with the following suggestions for the information plaques: • Old School: This was the NATIONAL SCHOOL built 1861 closed 1982 • The Green: The VILLAGE GREEN

formerly known as the SAWPIT • Wardle’s: Formerly WARDLE’S BAKER’S SHOP closed in the 1990s • The George: Formerly THE GEORGE INN until the early 21st Century • Bown’s: This building was once THE EARL GREY ARMS public house • Rectory: THE OLD RECTORY built in 1770, used as Rectory 1847-1960 • Old Post Office: THE OLD POST OFFICE which was once the original RED LION Resolved, the above proposals were accepted, this would now form the Parish Council’s proposal for these works to be done under the Borough Councils’ Environmental Improvement Scheme funding 2013/2014.

The clerk should write to Mr A Davies, to inform him that all of the signs were within the conservation area and that the Parish Council would like to plaques to be of Cast Aluminium and painted in 2 or 3 colours. The Borough Council would need to write formally to any proposed properties affected by the plaques.

The Parish Council would also request that any remaining funds allocated to the scheme be passed over to part fund the information board above.

Request for 5 street names for the new Jelson development – H&BBC: 1) Dr Alfred Wright 2) Marston 3) Cooper 4) Chapman 5) Hopwood Cemetery Fees – Recommendation from the Budget Review Workshop: Future improvements and some maintenance should be covered by implementing a Cemetery Improvement Levy (C.I.L.) to all of the fees and charges made by the Parish Council.

Recommendation, a C.I.L. charge of 10% should be implemented on 1st January 2014. This levy would be “Earmarked” for expenditure on the Cemetery only.

Resolved, the C.I.L charge should be implemented.

QUESTIONS TO THE CHAIR: ‫‏‬Dog fouling: Mrs A Lay stated that many residents were complaining about the regular instances of dog fouling along Neville Drive, Oakfield Avenue and The Green. It appeared that an irresponsible dog walker was taking a regular route between 5.45pm and 6.45pm every night and allowing their dog to foul the pavements. The clerk would report the matter.

Car Sales A50 Field Head Roundabout: Mrs A Lay informed the members that the illegal roadside car sales had started again.

Speeding – Thornton Lane: Mrs M Bowler had noted that residents had complained about speeding traffic along Thornton Lane and had informed Leics County Highways and requested the police to undertake mobile speed checks. As the Parish Council had previously taken these steps could Markfield Parish Council share the results with Ratby Parish Council.

After being escorted out of King’s Cross Station with concussion, I’m beginning to think my Hogwarts acceptance letter was a hoax.

23

Memories of the Co Op January saw the start of a fresh era in Markfield’s shopping habits with the opening of the new Co Op supermarket.

I am sure that some older people will feel a twinge of nostalgia when the old familiar building is demolished. One of the staff members has said that it is falling to bits so ‘tis time to go!

As an older resident of Markfield, I well remember two stalwarts of the Co Op who were on the staff for many years, namely Mr Lay and Mr Conybear.

When I was a child, my mother sent me on an errand to the Co Op and I made the terrible blunder of forgetting our ‘Divi’ number. Mr Conybear told me in no uncertain terms not to do it again and my ears were burning all the way home while I kept on reciting ‘14642’ to myself.

The butcher’s department was next door to the main shop and I can remember the sawdust on the floor and the very cold atmosphere.

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Does anyone recall the Charnwood Drive branch of the Co Op (pictured in it’s present form above)? We at Field Head used it a lot. We had the services of Barbara (Pearce) to come round weekly for our shopping lists which were later delivered. Barbara always carried a leather bag containing money but to my knowledge was never mugged en route.

Those were the days!

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Margaret Pike Who shows the most compassion?

Women are more charitable than men, even though men claim to be more generous.

A recent study by Fairy, in support of its partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation UK, found that women are consistently more altruistic. They are more generous on every level, and appear to get more satisfaction out of being charitable. When it comes to offering food or donating to a homeless person, 56 % of men never do so, as compared with 46% of women. 10% of men never give to a charity, as compared to six per cent of women.

Dr David Lewis, a neuro-scientist who analysed the research, concludes: “Here we have clear reinforcement of gender stereotypes. Women, being more empathetic, find it easier to see the world through other people’s eyes, while men tend to shrink away when emotions are expressed.

Don’t trust atoms - they make up everything.

24

Local Church Services Without Walls Christian Fellowship, 135 Main St Stanton Under Bardon

Cross Hills Baptist Church, between Bagworth & Thornton

St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Markfield

Sunday 9th Feb Meeting 10am

Sunday 9th February 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper

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.

Monday 10th Feb Coffee Morning 10am Tues 11th Singing Cafe At Shepshed Library For Dementia Sufferers + Carers 10am Wednesday 12th Feb Prayer Meeting 7pm Thurs 13th Feb Pure Gold. Drop In For Over 50’s 10am Fri 14th Feb Singing Cafe Loughborough Library 10am, Coalville Library 1.30pm Sunday 16th Feb Meeting 10am Monday 17th Feb Coffee Morning 10am, Prayer Meeting For Midlands Region 7.45pm Tues 18th Feb Singing Cafe Shepshed Library 10am Wed 19th Feb Midweek Fellowship From 6.30pm Thurs 20th Feb Pure Gold 10am Fri 21st Feb Singing Cafe Loughborough Library10am, Coalville Library 1.30pm Sunday 23rd Feb Cafe 4u 4pm, No Morning Meeting Monday 24th Feb Coffee Morning 10am Tues 25th Feb Singing Cafe Shepshed Library 10am Wed 26th Feb Bible Study 7pm, Romans Chapters 11&12 Thurs 27th Feb Pure Gold 10am Fri 28th Feb Singing Cafe Loughborough 10am, Coalville 1.30pm Sunday 2nd Mar Meeting 10am

Markfield Congregational Church

Sunday 16th February 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 23rd February 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 2nd March 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 9th March 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 9th February 10.30am Morning Service 4.00pm Afternoon Café Style Service Sunday 16th February 10.30am United Churches Together Service at Congregational Church 6.00pm Evening Service Sunday 23rd February 10.30am Morning Communion Service 6.00pm No Evening Service Sunday 2nd March 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Evening Taizé Service Sunday 9th March 10.30am Morning Service 4.00pm Afternoon Café Style Service

Sunday 9th February 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion Thursday 13th February 6.00 - 7.30 pm “Reflection” at Trinity Methodist Church

Sunday 23rd March 10.30 am “Something Different” Service Sunday 30th March 10.30 pm Single Service at St Peter’s, Thornton

St Peter’s Church, Thornton Sunday 9th February 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 16th February 10.30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 16th February 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield Service at the Congregational Church 6.00 pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 23rd February 10.30 am Morning Service

Friday 21st February 8.00 pm “Still Friday”

Wednesday 5th March 7.30 pm Ash Wednesday Holy Communion

Sunday 23rd February 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Evening Service Sunday 2nd March 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 9th March 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion Thursday 13th March 6.00 - 7.30 pm “Reflection” at Trinity Methodist Church Sunday 16th March 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield Service 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Friday 21st March 8.00 pm “Still Friday”

Sunday 2nd March 10.30 am All Age Service

Sunday 9th March 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 16th March 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 23rd March 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 30th March 10.30 pm Single Communion Service

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth Please note: Services will be at Bagworth Community Centre Sunday 2nd March 9.00 am Holy Communion

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak

Sunday 16th March 10.30am United Churches Together Service at St Michael’s Parish Church 6.00pm Evening Communion Service

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

Sunday 23rd March 10.30am Morning Communion Service 6.00pm No Evening Service

Sunday 30th March 6.00 pm Joint Evening Service

Sunday 16th February 3.00 pm Praise Service

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon

Sunday 23rd February 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Sunday 30th March 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Evening Service

Sunday 9th February 10.30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 16 February 10.30 am United Service in Our Church

Sunday 16th February 10.30 am Morning Service

Sunday 23 February 10.15 am Morning Worship

Sunday 23rd February 10.30 am “Something Different” Service

Sunday 2 March 10.15 am Morning Worship followed by Communion Sunday 9 March 10.15 am Morning Worship

Sunday 16th March 10.30 am Morning Service

Sunday 2nd March 10.30 am Morning Service “No, not the steeple, the roof or the organ - it’s for the vicar’s post-Christmaspre-Easter recuperation holiday break.”

Sunday 9th March 10.30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 9th February 9.15 am Holy Communion

Sunday 2nd March 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 9th March 9.15 am Holy Communion Sunday 16th March 3.00 pm Praise Service Sunday 23rd March 6.00 pm Holy Communion Sunday 30th March 6.00 pm Joint Service at St Michael’s, Markfield

The Miss Universe competition is fixed. All the winners are from Earth.

25

LETTER

Opportunity for local youngsters to learn a trade

Magical Stanton Once again the Christmas lights in Stanton under Bardon were superb!

The Main Street from top to bottom was magical!

Thank you to everyone that took the trouble of putting them up!

Margaret Lay

Table top sale for Coeliac UK A Charity Table Top Sale in aid of Coeliac UK is taking place on 5th April 2014 at Markfield Community Centre between 1pm-4pm.

If people are interested in holding a stall, the contact details are: Sam: 01530 243237 Email: saml34f@yahoo.co.uk Both both new and second hand stalls are welcome.

New Construction Centre launched at Groby Community College On 28 January 2014 a new Construction Centre funded by the David Wilson Foundation opened at Groby Community College.

The new centre is designed to help students develop basic construction skills in partnership

Small Ads • Babylo Bizzy Bee WALKER. Used, excellent condition. Price £10 • Lindam Door Bouncer. Used, excellent condition. Price £10 Tel: 07985 533417 • KITCHEN: Extensive range of base and wall units in traditional walnut with ceramic hob, built-under double oven, dishwasher and built-under fridge. Price: £250 • DRESSERS: Good pieces of oak furniture, or suitable for up-cycling to shabby chic. Price: £50 each.

Tel: 01530 242607 • Jones SEWING MACHINE in wood cabinet with treadle. Possibly 1900s.

Still works. Due to lack of space, all offers considered.

Tel: 0753 180 4839 • In The Night Garden Iggle Piggle 10” BIKE. Price £10 • Mountfield RV40 1500cc petrol mower - hardly used. Price £85 • Coolzone cz51518 fridge freezer Price £50 • Ladies bike - Townsend Harlequin Price £20 Tel 01530 244394 or 07858 030316 • Double Futon, Pine Frame,Brown Cushion. Hardly used and Excellent condition. £120.

• Pair of Cream Shoes, size 6. Never worn £15.

• Pair of Gold Glitter shoes size6.

Never worn £15.

• Pair Roland Cartier shoes, Cobalt Blue, never worn £25.

SEND your Small Ads in writing to The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or email to: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

LAUNCH: David Wilson (3rd in from the right) pictured with staff and students involved in the new Construction Centre at Groby Community College

with Leicester College where expert teaching and progression routes at post 16 will help support those students wishing to access construction apprenticeships.

The practical skills developed at the centre are further enhanced by high quality teaching in literacy and mathematics which will prepare students well for future qualifications and life long learning.

The new construction centre has been made possible by an £80,000 donation from the David Wilson Foundation. Teaching in the centre commenced at the start of January 2014 where students are developing skills in the three main trades – bricklaying, plumbing and carpentry – in a realistic working environment with all of the tools and equipment linked to each trade available to them.

From September 2014 the centre will provide access for up to 50 students each year. Vocationally based courses delivered by the centre include BTEC Construction courses, with students taught by staff from Leicester College. It is expected that the centre will be used by students across the campus at both KS3, 4 and 5.

Endorsing the new centre, David Wilson said: “A key aim of the David Wilson Foundation is to help young people acquire construction skills for their future. This new Construction Centre is the perfect example of that aspiration in action, giving young people an ideal introduction into the construction industry and the skills needed to succeed.”

Commenting on the future success of the centre, Ms Varnam, Groby Community College’s Curriculum Leader for Flexible Learning said: “The grant from the David Wilson

Foundation has given the students who need it most on our campus an exciting opportunity to follow a programme in construction, which will play a part in significantly engaging those students who find it hardest to secure proper progression routes at college and long term employment.”

Not only will students develop knowledge and understanding as they work towards their qualifications, but they will also gain skills that will prove invaluable in their future careers. We are so very grateful to The David Wilson Foundation in helping to make this Construction Centre a reality. This opportunity will help students to

gain a real insight into the world of work and will help to provide them with relevant skills which will support them in securing long term jobs and a prosperous future.

David Wilson, CBE, DL established The David Wilson Foundation to support young people through education.

Specifically the Foundation helps young people overcome barriers to succeed, develop skills in the construction industry and achieve their potential for a successful working life.

Robert Coles, Principal

Tesco to stop selling sky lanterns: CLA regional comment Commenting on news that following months of lobbying by the Farmers Guardian and supporters of its Say No to Sky Lanterns campaign, supermarket giant Tesco has promised to pull the dangerous products off its shelves for good.

CLA Midlands Rural Adviser Donna Tavernor said: “Anyone who owns land or property, in town or countryside, should be delighted with the news that Tesco is the latest high profile retailer to act on public opinion by deciding to stop selling sky lanterns.

“The Say No to Sky Lanterns campaign has the support of the industry and many organisations including the CLA, who have been lobbying against these airborne incendiaries.

“The dangers to land, property and livestock are well documented, and until the UK follows other countries by putting a nationwide ban in place, voluntary self-regulation is to be welcomed.”

I purchased a microwave bed recently. 8 hours sleep in 10 minutes.

ord Search Puzzle

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Football Ground Wordsearch

Subscriber Login

Find the names of 12 FOOTBALL GROUNDS 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.

X J Z H K U G E B O J T V K Y M B R

J K U Q Z N R N E A Z E U E U M U M

H E B U V J Y A R K C B L I M G S I

R Z G T H I Q L L H R L D V N H Y M

S F U X X R K T K A A A E O Z S X W

T R F E D T U R M V T H L K Y R Q Z

BRAMALLLANE CARROWROAD CRAVENCOTTAGE ELLANDROAD KINGPOWERSTADIUM LOFTUSROAD STANDREWS THEHAWTHORNS THEVALLEY TURFMOOR VILLAPARK WHITEHARTLANE

V M Q R G R I A E S F M L R G Z K Y

H D C M F A L H R L I X A A C O P O

M V C M O L T E G O R O N P U W V Z

U U O A L B W T Y L N X D A D S K Q

C O N A R O W I O P U H R L B S A C

R H N R P R T H D C E S O L Y H H B

T E H G U B O W Z P N P A I Y B L V

J L N G R D X W R E P E D V X A P O

L I R J K R P C R T A P V Y K J K L

K X M E J X S N R O H T W A H E H T

L O F T U S R O A D A C U U R X K U

S W E R D N A T S I A D K D F C N J

To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - the names of 12 FOOTBALL GROUNDS. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: TURNSTILE, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Wednesday 26th February 2014.

Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s Pint Glass will win the Meal for Two at The Field Head Hotel. Good luck!

Here are the 12 FOOTBALL GROUNDS you have to find:

BRAMALL LANE • CARROW ROAD • CRAVEN COTTAGE ELLAND ROAD • KING POWER STADIUM • LOFTUS ROAD ST ANDREWS • THE HAWTHORNS • THE VALLEY TURF MOOR • VILLA PARK • WHITE HART LANE Name: ...................................................................................................

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

Last Month’s Competition Winner The winner of last month’s Wordsearch Competition was: Mrs Kath Tarry, of Jacqueline Road, Markfield Congratulations! Your voucher will be sent to you within 21 days.

Bradgate Lions Club News We are members of the world’s foremost service organisation, LIONS CLUBS INTERNATIONAL who have over 1.4 million members worldwide, in more than 44,000 clubs in 192 countries and geographic areas.

Regardless of what language they speak, religion they practice or politics they espouse, all Lions are dedicated to seeking out and helping those in need.

Since 1917, when the first Lions club was formed, local Lions clubs have offered people just like you the opportunity to give something back to their communities, and although we cannot claim to go back that far, Bradgate Lions Club, who were founded in 1989, have helped Internationally, nationally and locally in projects to help deserving causes, and have so far raised and donated over £160.000 towards famine and disaster relief, national Cancer Charities, Children’s Charities and many local causes such as Hospices etc; We have also assisted in tree planting projects, provided transport to local groups, and undertaken gardening assistance.

We are now looking to increase our membership in order to be able to continue with our work in the district, which covers a vast area, stretching from Desford and Leicester Forest East in the South, across to Newtown Linford and Copt Oak in the North, and from Kirby Muxloe and Glenfield in the East over to Markfield and Thornton in the West.

Our Club meets on the second and fourth Thursday evening of each month at 7.00PM, the first for a short business meeting, and second for a social get together, anyone who is interested in finding out about Bradgate Lions should ring Roger on 01530 242912 or Jill on 01455 822008, both of whom would be pleased to help, and could invite you to attend one of our meetings to find out more.

On February 22nd. we are staging “A Night at the Races” at Botcheston Village Hall. Doors open at 7.30PM for a 7.30 start. This will be a full night or fun and entertainment, tickets are £7.00 and include a Ploughman’s Supper.

There is a licensed bar and there will be a raffle.

We also have planned a night of 50’s &60’s music, with “Sounds like Swing”. Live music from a local 5 -piece band to Dance to, or just listen to favourites and requests. To be held at Newtown Linford Village Hall on April 26th. Further details to be announce later.

Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com

Roger Gamble My wife started horse riding to try and lose weight. It worked. The horse lost 30lbs in 30 days.

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