January 2014 groby spotlight magazine

Latest News from The Greys of Groby The Greys of Groby said Goodbye to 2013 in style during December.

Kate Webb from Age UK set the tone by telling us how to save on our fuel bills and still keep warm and healthy. Nikki put us through our paces with her Chair Aerobics and the following week over 30 of us put on the pounds enjoying a Christmas Dinner at the Field Head Hotel.

This extra curricular activity was preceded with a Welcome Toast to absent friends provided by the Family of our past Chairperson, Betty Kelly, who sadly died in April. Betty is often in our thoughts and greatly missed.

Martinshaw School Choir entertained us one Tuesday with seasonal carols and their soloist was excellent. Thank you to all the staff and pupils concerned.

Another BIG thank you needs to be given to Revd Louise Corke and Revd Sue McKenzie for their Christmas Story enactment. It was lovely to take part in this seasonal service with its traditional carols and readings.

What have we in store for you in 2014?

Age UK and Chair Aerobics will continue each month as will the opportunity for you to play Dominoes or Card games each week. As for speakers - on January 28th we hope the Manager of Lakeland shop will come and demonstrate how to use the modern cooking utensils and products, whilst in February 25th Becky from LFE will do some flower arranging using silk and fresh material which we will be able to purchase.

So PLEASE if you are free on a Tuesday morning, drop in around 10am at the Community Centre, Forest Rise, Groby for a drink and a chat and much much more.

Looking forward to meeting you.

Jean Collins

LUCY WHITFIELD Junior Sportswoman of the Year 2013

Groby Community College student LUCY WHITFIELD aged 16 was awarded Junior Sportswoman of the Year 2013 at the seventh Hinckley and Bosworth Sports Awards which were held on Thursday 28th November attracting over 130 guests.

Karate Gold Medallist Lucy Whitfield is pictured on the left above receiving her Junior Sportswoman of the Year 2013 award from one of the guest guests; Sophie Bradley an English International football defender who has played for England on over 20 occasions.

The Sports Awards has not only established itself as an annual event in the local sporting calendar, but is gaining more support and awareness from the community with an increasing number of nominations each year. The winners of the Sports Awards are also put forward for the chance to win a further award at The Leicester Mercury Sports Awards in January!

Good luck Lucy!

Free information event for sports coaches A FREE event providing information for sports club coaches in Hinckley & Bosworth is being held at the end of this month.

The Club Coach Evening will be held at Bosworth Academy, Desford on Monday 27 January from 6.30pm until 9pm.

For those attending, information will be available about funding, vetting and barring, Sportivate, satellite clubs and much more.

For more information, contact Graeme Chilvers, the Borough Council’s Health and Recreation Manager, on 01455 255678 or email: GChilvers@ hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk

Footpath between Markfield Road and Forest Rise Inquiry As many of you are aware there has been a long running dispute over the closure of the footpath between Markfield Road ( between nos; 55 & 57) and Forest Rise / Martinshaw School.

A Public Inquiry is now being held at County Hall starting on Wednesday 12th March 2014.

We would like as many as possible to come and support those who are going to speak, especially those who completed a User Evidence Form between 2002 and 2007.

The Order for the addition of Public Footpath R125 to the Definitive Map has already been submitted to the Secretary of State for confirmation.

The Order will be considered following this Inquiry.

The Ramblers Association have been very supportive throughout and are presenting the Statement of Case for the footpath.

We expect that a fair and reasonable judgement will conclude this longstanding dispute.

If you need transport or would like any further information please contact me on 0116 287 6724 or email grobyfootpath@ virginmedia.com.

Christine Sturgess-Smith

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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01530-244069 Email us at: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk Visit the website at www.grobyspotlight.co.uk

Santa visits Martinshaw!

3,500 copies distributed 11 times a year (no issue in July) to homes and businesses in Groby, Field Head and The Brantings.

Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head.

Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press.

The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities.

The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication.

All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight.

None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.

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Lots of ‘Yo Ho Ho’ing’ and shouts of ‘Merry Christmas’ rang out in the halls of Martinshaw Primary School as Father Christmas visited, right in the middle of the schools OFSTED inspection.

But, did it faze our red coated friend from the North Pole, not one bit of it.

Santa was guest of honour at the School’s Christmas Fair, organised by the Martinshaw School Association (MSA), with stalls, competitions and games.

Thanks for my present: Becky, Jess and Sophie with Santa One particular stall was created and manned entirely by the school council, with their aim to boost their own fund for new sports equipment.

The Fair was very well supported by the families and friends of the School and has so far raised £1,300 and, of course, Santa has gone back to his day job.

Owen Lawrence

Read any good books lately?

Yes ... Then come to the Stamford Arms on Thursday 30th January around 2 o’clock and tell the Book Club about them.

No ... Then still come and we will tell you about those we have read.

The author under discussion on the 30th will be Philippa Gregory. mainly focusing on her ‘strong females’ and Groby’s Elizabeth Woodville and Lady Jane Grey in particular.

The Book Club is a new venture in Groby for AgeUK Leicester Shire & Rutland and Leicestershire Libraries and they look forward to your support in this DAYTIME activity.

On display each month will be books in large print, talking books as well as library books to borrow.

Open to all over 50’s, starting on 30th January and then meeting every fourth Thursday of each month 2-4pm at the Stamford Arms Groby, Kate from AgeUK and Jane from Groby Library look forward to seeing you there.

LETTER

Thank you Groby Parish Council Please could you pass on to the Parish Council congratulations on the spectacular Christmas Lights in Groby Village this year.

The ones at Martinshaw shops are so lovely to see and then to continue through the village and on Leicester Road, it is a joy to behold.

Another thank you for the great improvement at the A50/A46 roundabout. What a difference it has already made. May I say, it is well worth the wait and appears to run much more smoothly and certainly much safer.

Thank you also to Spotlight for keeping us informed about all things relevant to our village.

Happy New Year to all.

Elizabeth Jarvis

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Groby Village Society

What’s happening at Groby Library?

Loughborough Orchestra Winter Concert

Preservation ~ Conservation Communal Interests

Programme of Events for 2014 Thursday January 23

Members’ Evening

Thursday February 27

Fire Safety with a Smile Mr Bill Wells

Thursday March 27

A.G.M.

Thursday April 24

Samuel Deacon World Famous Clockmaker Born Ratby 1748 Mr John Thornton Thursday May 22

Malaysia and my Chinese Family Mrs Sally Leong

Thursday June 26 Bess of Hardwick’ Mrs Sally Henshaw Thursday July 24

My Life as a Submariner Mr John Deeth

Thursday August 28

Made in Leicester

Mr Brian Johnson Thursday September 25

Hearing Dogs for the Deaf Mrs Denise Taylor Thursday October 23

Great Central Railway History, Decline, Restoration Mr Mike Riley

Thursday November 27

‘The Story of the Unknown Warrior’ Dr John Sutton

Thursday December 18

Way With Words (Christmas) Mrs Ruth Coward

Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm.

For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842 e-mail:- groby. villagesociety@tiscali.co.uk Non Members are Welcome

Now that the Christmas and New Year celebrations have come to an end you might be feeling at a bit of a loose end… but don’t despair - your local library is there for you.

We have a wide range of books to suit every taste, some in large print, some as audio books, you can access the computers and surf the net with your library card or just sit in the warm surroundings and read the paper.

The friendly staff are always ready to help.

If you’ve got pre-school children, there is a parent-led Story Time on Thursdays from 10.30 – 11.00am. The January sessions are on 16th and 30th of the month and then once a fortnight.

Come along and join in the fun of stories, rhymes and singing together.

The library also hosts a fabulous Knit and Stitch group where likeminded, creative folk, of all abilities, can get together and “create” over a cuppa and a chat. The group meets fortnightly, on Fridays, from 5.30pm – 6.30pm, they’ll be meeting on 10th and 24th of January.

Everybody most welcome!

On Friday February 7th from 2.30pm – 4.30pm the library is hosting a Mental Health Roadshow, designed to get us thinking and talking about good mental health and how to achieve it. This event is free and you can book onto it at the library. For more information please contact Lindsay Orton, Locality Mental Health Strategic Co-ordinator on 01455 255805 or email Lindsay.orton@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk For more details please contact Groby library; Tel: 0116 305 3601 • Email: grobylibrary@leics.gov.uk

WISE WORDS When a friend is in trouble, don’t annoy him by asking if there is anything you can do. Think up something appropriate and do it.

E. W. Howe

On Saturday January 25th the Loughborough Orchestra will present its Winter concert in Trinity Methodist Church Centre, Loughborough at 7.30pm.

Included in the programme are some very well known pieces of music; the most popular of these being the Haydn Trumpet concerto in Eb. Rebecca Robertson is to be the guest soloist for this performance. Rebecca graduated with Honours from the Royal Northern College of Music in 2010 before spending two years at the Conservatoire regionale Rayonneent de Jean Philippe Rameau at Dijon. She has also been a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain for 4 years. Her guest spot with the Loughborough Orchestra completes a circle of trumpet playing! Rebecca’s father was one of the first pupils of Trevor Lax, conductor of the Loughborough Orchestra.

The evening also includes the “Prelude to Hänsel and Gretel”

by Humperdinck and “Night on a Bald Mountain” by Mussorgsky, arranged by Rimsky – Korsakov.

This spooky piece featured in the Disney film “Fantasia”, giving it a much wider audience.

The final orchestral piece is Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony, with its memorable melodies.

Parts of the Symphony have been used for a variety of different musical uses including film music and advertising for Australian TV, besides inspiring other themes and songs.

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Groby Gardening Society News Our last meeting of the year was celebrated in style at the Christmas party.

Members pulled out all the stops and the food table was groaning under the weight of sandwiches, cakes, mince pies, trifles, pork pies etc. Over fifty members contributed and enjoyed the evening.

This year our party entertainment was done “in-house” as Molly had kindly volunteered to organise this aspect. Everyone enjoyed the evening that Molly and Danny had organised and prizes for the competitions and raffle were thoroughly appreciated.

The Annual General Meeting As well as the usual business conducted at Annual General Meetings, we usually take stock of our previous year’s programme.

The year 2013 will be remembered by many for not only some excellent and entertaining talks, but also for some thoroughly enjoyable trips.

The Cotswold Flower Nursery, Coughton Court, The Great Yorkshire Show , Brodsworth House and the wonderful hotel in Leeds will all be fondly remembered. The Village Show in August will also go down as a success, although it was acknowledged at the time that vegetable growers had a tough time getting exhibits ready due to that long, cold Spring. By contrast, flower growers did well and there were some dazzling displays of these. Another notably successful event was the “Questions and Answers” evening when our expert panel of experts excelled and entertained. By the time this edition is delivered, our A.G.M. will have been held and the programme for speakers and outings for 2014 will have been published.

Looking ahead Gardeners are (have to be) optimists and we all look forward to the start of another gardening cycle.

This year we are increasing the number of outings and many members have already signed up for the half day visit to see the snowdrop display at Hodsock priory. If you would like to be included, but cannot get to the A.G.M., just give Alvar a ring. If you feel like becoming involved and sharing in our activities, we always welcome new members and casual guests at our monthly meetings that are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month, usually in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill. Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Alvar Johnson. (Tel. No. 01162877870 or E mail alvar3@talktalk.net

Forthcoming events • •

February 13th: Cultivation of Roses February 22nd: Hodsock Priory visit leaving Groby at 10.30.

We will be back by 4.00.

Alvar Johnson

Keep the dream alive: Hit the snooze button.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Jottings News in Brief with Norman Griffiths

There’s still time to say farewell to the Mallard Oak The Mallard Oak is a great example of how we so often take our local environment for granted.

In the autumn it has no doubt often been cursed by those who have been faced with sweeping up what must appear to be a never ending supply of acorns and leaves.

But in spring all has been forgiven as the first signs of the new season’s leaves unfurl.

How long it has stood there is a matter for speculation, but there is no doubt Groby has developed and changed around it. But nothing lasts for ever and when the Parish Council had a tree survey it was identified as being beyond surgery.

A local resident has informed the Parish Council that there is a Tree Preservation Order on the oak, though neither the Borough Council nor the County Council have any record of one. This is a complication for Beverley Greenwood, the Parish Clerk. “As soon as I have the details from the resident I will be checking with the necessary parties to ensure we have consent to proceed with the felling,” said Beverley. “The work has been provisionally scheduled for the 21st January but may need to be postponed in order to give more time clarify the position.”

The tree is near the allotment gate on the popular footpath that links Glebe Road with Mallard Avenue and Chapel Hill. Because of its size it is possible that for safety reasons the footpath will have to be closed when the work is in progress, though the firm engaged to undertake the work have not taken the opportunity offered to confirm this. If you use this short cut or use this gate to access the allotments you should probably allow extra time in case you have to take a longer route on January 21st.

“It has been a chore dealing with all the leaves and acorns,” said one local resident, “but I appreciate that if it fell in a storm it could cause significant damage. On balance there is only one solution.” Two others exchanged recollections of the challenge that the tree had presented for their children. Both families found their ladders invaluable in rescuing children that had climbed up but couldn’t climb down. And before you shrug your shoulders and say “boys will be boys” you should know that Groby’s girls were just as adept as the boys at getting stranded up the tree.

The Meadow Annual General Meeting: Tuesday 11th February If you are a shareholder in the Community Interest Company formed to buy the meadow on Newtown Linford Lane there’s an important date for you to put in your diary.

The Annual General meeting will be held from 7.30 pm on Tuesday 11th February at Groby Club on Leicester Road. If you are not a member of the club you will have to sign in on arrival.

National Trust Leicester Association News Mention York to any National Trust member and they will immediately think of the Treasurer’s House in Minster Yard adjacent to York Minster. The house was originally the home of the Cathedral treasurer and the present house dates from 1630.

However the NT owns another house in York - Goddards (above) - which is Grade 1 listed and overlooks the race course. For nearly 30 years the house has been the NT regional office but following staff reorganisation the house and its expansive garden are now open to visitors.

Goddards was built in 1926 for Noel Terry of the famous confectionary-making firm Terry’s of York.

At first glance it is in a free Arts and Crafts Tudor style with mullioned windows, leaded lights, patterned brickwork and great ornamental chimneys. However this is all combined with an eclectic mix of varying elements including a Gothic oriel window and Queen Anne and Georgian-style panelling, chimneypieces and doorcases.

In many respects Goddards was a very old-fashioned house for its date, especially the fact that it included a large traditional service wing with generous provision for servants.

In keeping with the time the garden is compartmentalised and contains a main terrace with lawn and pond, a Water Garden, a Rockery and tennis and bowls lawns.

Goddards is open Wednesday to Sunday from 1st March and the Treasurer’s House Saturday to Thursday from 15th February.

Forthcoming meetings •

The NT Leicester Association has an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 22nd January at St Guthlac’s Memorial Hall, Holbrook Road, Leicester, at 2.30pm, when photographer, Richard Adams, will present a talk entitled ‘What a Wonderful World’.

• There will be an evening meeting on Tuesday 11th February when Gerald Hall will present an illustrated talk entitled ‘The Camargue’.

The meeting will be held at Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone at 7.30pm.

Admission to both meetings is NTLA members £2.50, visitors £4.00 including refreshments.

For details of the NT Leicester Association please call 0116 2229133.

Alan Tyler, Chairman

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Leicestershire County Council

Green Plaque Awards Scheme Leicestershire has a wealth of fascinating history and we are keen to celebrate some of the important people and places linked to the county.

That’s why we’re introducing our Green Plaque Awards Scheme and we want you to tell us which people, buildings and sites you think really deserve recognition.

And you’ll get the chance to vote for the winning schemes when the shortlist is announced in February 2014.

You can nominate war heroes, local heroes and famous people, philanthropists and entrepreneurs, places with cultural or heritage connections as well as buildings of historic or architectural importance.

Anyone nominated for a green plaque must have been dead for at least 20 years.

You can make your nomination – in not more than 500 words – by completing the online nomination form or by writing to: Green Plaques, Communities & Wellbeing, Room 500, Leicestershire County Council, County Hall, Glenfield, LE3 8RA You can also pick up and drop off your form at any county library.

Forms will also be available from Tourist Information Centres throughout the county.

Nominations should include a recommendation about where the plaque could be located and if possible evidence of the agreement of the owner of the building or structure on which the plaque is to be mounted. We prefer to put the plaques on dwellings with strong associations with the person nominated.

The Selection Criteria gives details of how we will evaluate nominations.

The closing date for nominations is Friday 24th January 2014.

And I quote ...

I’d rather attempt to do something great and fail than to attempt to do nothing and succeed.

Robert H. Schuller

Who was painter Norman Ernest Ellis?

Norman Griffiths wonders whether there was a Groby connection

T

ucked away in a storage room there is a small collection of paintings by Norman Ellis.

There are probably others in private collections, for example his painting of Leicester Clock Tower which sold for £170 at a Gildings auction in 2007. Although you’ll not finds his paintings on display at our museums you can see two which are on long term loan to St Martin’s House at Leicester Cathedral.

One of them, A Leicester Vista, is a smoky aerial view of rows of Leicester’s terraces with what may be the Raw Dykes Road area in the distance, was bought by the City Council in 1956, a year after it was painted.

Can any readers identify the view of the terraces? The other, his Wharf Street Vista, dates from 1970 and was included in a donation of his paintings by his wife to the City Council after his death in 1971.

And what about the Wharf Street Vista?

Is it perhaps the site of Lee Circle after demolition but before construction work began?

These two paintings and nine more can be viewed in an internet slide show. One painting is of Burnham Overy Mill across the Cornfield, Norfolk and another is St Botolph’s Church in Lincolnshire, known as Boston ‘Stump’ because of its tall tower.

But the majority are Leicestershire scenes, some of the city but four featuring Groby Old Hall.

At this point it is tempting to make assumptions – did he live in Groby or was it just one of his favourite places? Born in 1913 in Leicester he was a builder by trade. He studied at Leicester College of Art and Lincoln College of Art. A member of the Leicester Society of Artists and the Leicester Sketch Club he exhibited widely in the Midlands. The Leicester Society of Artists have an annual Ellis prize which may be associated with him.

The other Leicester paintings might be more nostalgic for older readers.

Leicester City Centre from 1952 shows the Clock tower, probably from the Lewis’s department store opposite the Bell Hotel, complete with policemen on traffic duty.

Haymarket, from 1970, features the Clock Tower and White Hart Hotel before the redevelopment.

Familiar shop names, now gone, include Alexanders, John Collier and Stones. There is no painting date for The Last days of Leicester Palace, though the Belgrave Gate theatre was demolished in 1959.

Perhaps some readers went to the production of Cinderella featured on the bill boards.

The four Groby paintings feature the Old Hall. Two date from the early 1950’s and two from 1970.

The most charming is perhaps from 1950 which appears to be a view to the Hall from what is now the Co-op car park. There’s washing on the line and a figure holding a child sitting on a dry stone wall. And before you ask the answer to your question is no, it’s not Maurice or Margaret Chaplin.

If you want to view the two paintings at St Martin’s House they

are easily accessed. One is in the corridor to the toilets just behind the café, and the other half way up the staircase. Don’t be put off by the work going on outside to create the new Cathedral open space as access is not affected. You could combine your visit with a break from shopping and enjoy a hot drink relaxing on one of the café’s sofas. Trade has been affected by the works so they’ll be very pleased to see you.

If you do visit St Martin’s House and would like to see the Groby paintings this may become possible.

“I’m afraid that at present we are not able to provide access to stored works as we just do not have the capacity,” explained Claire Cooper , the Documentation Officer at New Walk Museum & Art Gallery.

“However, once a number of galleries are opened this year there will be more space in our store and the curator

Don’t trust atoms, they make up everything.

will have more time so we should then be better able to facilitate any requests that come through.”

So who was Norman Ernest Ellis? Let us know if you have any information you are happy for The Spotlight to share with other readers.

The online gallery of eleven of his paintings can be found at http:// www.bbc.co.uk/arts/yourpaintings/ paintings/search/painted_by/ norman-ellis, or by following the link from www.grobyonline.tk

10

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mystery gas leak closes Rookery Lane Rookery Lane has been closed to traffic longer than expected as a result of a mystery surrounding a gas leak.

Excavations by National Grid had failed to find a leak by 10th January so the road remained closed over the weekend.

Jottings News in Brief with Norman Griffiths Groby Parish Council has also been considering whether or not to increase its precept, and there’s been good news that the Council Tax Support Grant to be received in 2014 will not be reduced and will be the same as in 2013. The New Homes Bonus to be received is forecast to be nearly £4000 more than 2013. The debate at the January finance meeting was whether to increase the typical household tax by by 6p a week to raise around an extra £8000 or to leave it at the 2013/14 level. The Committee decided that with the current pressure on household budgets a good increase would be no increase, and this is recommendation that will be considered by the full council.

It seems that the gas can percolate underground before finding it’s way to the surface, so the source of the smell may not be the source of the leak.

New Rotary club meets this month The first meeting of the new Rotary club being formed for men and women in the Groby, Ratby, Markfield and Glenfield areas will be held at 7.30pm on Tuesday January 21, 2014, at the Heathley Park restaurant, near LOROS, on Groby Road LE3 9QE. The second will be held at the same venue during the early evening of Wednesday, January 29, 2014.

To find out more about the new club or to book in for your first meeting, ring Roger on 01530 810464, Graham on 01509 0213675, or Jim on 0116 292 8267.

Council Tax bills Down at County Hall consideration is being given to a 1.5% increase in their share of the Council Tax following their 2013 consultation in which 69% of respondents said they would be prepared to pay an increase in council tax.

This would generate around £3million. Increasing Council Tax may mean the loss of some Government grant so they are awaiting some further detail from the government before finalising the proposals to be put to members on February 19th. Is the advantage of losing the grant that the extra £3m collected by increasing the tax would be collected every year whilst the grant would only be paid for one year?

Windows XP deadline approaches An overheard conversation often reminds you of a problem that you had put to the back of your mind.

The conversation was a local gent who needs some help with his new pc. Although familiar with the Windows XP operating system his new machine runs the infamous Windows 8, which comes with a very steep learning curve. XP has been Microsoft’s most successful operating system and has been so well loved that they had to extend support to keep users happy. It has been estimated that a third of all pc’s in the world still use it, which means that in April there is going to be a big problem. This is because there will be no further support extension and no downloads to update XP systems and patch security holes.

So if you, like millions more, use a pc that runs XP to access the internet you will become more exposed to cyber attacks as hackers find new weaknesses in the XP operating system. You will need to pay to upgrade to a newer version of Windows or switch to an alternative system such as Linux, which is free. It sounds straightforward but if your pc is long in the tooth it may not be suitable for the latest Windows operating system.

Microsoft have an advice page where you can download a programme that looks at your pc and tells you if it will work with Windows 8. You can find it at: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-GB/windows/ end-support-help or follow the link from www. grobyonline.tk.

Every cloud has a silver lining and there may be someone locally who knows both systems and can put together a short presentation on how to move from one to the other. That’s something those who are struggling might be happy to pay for.

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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County Councillor’s Report from Ozzy O’shea Groby Residents Up In Arms Against Gypsy Caravan Site Proposals •

Planning Application Ref: 13/01029/COU

On a dark cold wet and windy evening only days before Christmas somewhere in the region of 100 people put thoughts of Christmas to one side to attend a public meeting at the Forest Rise Community Centre in Groby to strongly voice their opposition to a planning application for a Gypsy caravan site on land to the rear of Wallace Drive, Groby.

Borough Councillor Peter Batty and I called this meeting to hear the very real concerns of local residents.

Local people were of one voice in condemning the application for 4 caravans, associated amenity buildings and hard standing for vehicles as being totally unsuitable on land in the open countryside next to an important Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Residents were all agreed that the site does not have suitable or safe access and should not even be considered. I fully appreciate that there has been a need for Gypsy /Travelling sites in the past and that is why I have supported them in more appropriate locations, but this is not an appropriate location!

There are only a limited number of uses for this land allowed under local planning policies; caravan sites, Gypsy or otherwise are not included in the list.

Previously, this exclusion has been firmly enforced by the Borough Council which not only refused 3 planning applications from the previous owner of the site (a

member of the settled community) to locate a caravan on the site for a period of only 3 years but took out Injunctions and twice took High Court Actions against that person to ensure that no caravan was located on the site.

Currently the land is used for the keeping and breeding of racing pigeons which is an acceptable recreational use in the open countryside; this does not qualify the land as a “Brownfield” site suitable for residential development as claimed by the applicant.

I would like to think that I have always tried to treat people fairly but I am firmly of the opinion that if ONE caravan for a member of the settled community was not an acceptable use of this site then the same should apply to a planning application for FOUR caravans on the same site, irrespective of who the applicants are - there should be one consistent rule for all.

I organised a site meeting with the Team Manager responsible for Highway applications at County Hall, where I expressed both the residents’ and my own real concerns regarding the access points to the site. Highways still hold the opinion that the access off Wallace Drive is a safe one, according to the guidance they work from. I personally do not share their opinion being an experienced caravanner myself for over 34 years.

However it was agreed the track down to the A50 was dangerous and as such Highways are recommending that conditions are placed on that access against its use. I will be holding a further meeting with the Highways Manager and Peter Batty at County Hall in the next few days. I have also requested a full site visit by the Hinckley & Bosworth Planning Committee.

I would urge residents to contact myself or Peter Batty to seek advice on how best to make their views known to Hinckley and

Bosworth Borough Council (the Public Consultation period runs until Friday 10th January 2014) However objections can still be made right up to the night the Planning Committee hears the application. The earliest date for that meeting is 5th February, but I am reliably informed it could now be the taken to the 4th March meeting.

A50/A46 Traffic Island, Groby The work is now complete and the traffic signals appear to be working in the correct sequence.

To their credit, the County Council had the work completed for the Christmas holidays ahead of time.

I hope it now helps to improve people’s journeys using that route.

I would like to thank you all for your continued support and to remind you that I am only a phone call or email away.

I would like to end by wishing you all a Very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.

Ozzy O’shea

Working for you Tel 0116 2394336 or 07808 585825 Email: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

And I quote ...

You see much more of your children once they leave home.

Lucille Ball

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

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

LETTERS

Great year for George Bates: Groby’s international wheelchair basketball star You have previously posted articles about George and this is an update on the fantastic year he has had.

George is 19 years old and lives in Groby. He plays wheelchair basketball for Leicester Cobras in the first division Central League and he plays in the super league for Sheffield Steelers.

During the summer he was selected to play for his country for the first time, representing Great Britain Under-23 Men at the World Championships in Adana, Turkey. The team came 4th, equalling the best previous performance by GB Men’s Under-23 team. The highlight was beating Turkey in the quarter finals in front of a crowd of 2,000 Turkish fans and 10 GB fans in a game which was shown live on Turkish national sports tv channel.

The game ended with the team and 10 loyal fans having a police escort from the stadium!

In December, George won the Leicester Sports Partnership Trust Disabled Sportsperson of 2013.

Stephanie Bates

More praise for Groby Parish Council I would just like to say a massive ‘Thank You’ to Groby Parish Council for the beautiful Christmas lights on the green at Lawnwood Road.

We have waited years to get them and it was surely worth it.

The rest of the village is very impressive too, and I think the lights look the best they ever have.

I have clients who come from all the surrounding villages and they have said that groby’s Christmas lights put theirs to shame!

Thank you once again.

Lynne Miller (Classic Cuts)

Council Approved

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

13

Martinshaw Year 6 Boys How fast can a Bunny Run? County Cross Country Champions AGAIN! On the morning of Sunday 6th April you can attempt a serious 10K or a fun 3K in the beautiful Beacon Country Park at Woodhouse Eaves.

Whether you run for the enjoyment of it or sponsored for charity, both runs are suitable for all abilities and are entirely off-road along woodland pathways and bridleways although only the 10K includes hill climbs.

Everyone finishing gets a medal and there will be a host of prizes as well as the opportunity for a warm-down massage.

If you simply want to watch or to take the family, there will be hot food and drinks, a bouncy castle, an Egg Hunt and games for the children.

The event is organised every year by The Rotary Club of Loughborough Beacon and full details are available at www.beaconbunnyrun.org

 Looking to improve your social life in 2014?

Wanting to take part in events and activities with like-minded people?

Martinshaw Year 6 Boys were crowned Leicestershire Primary School County Cross Country Champions again this year.

These Championships have followed these young men (Ben, Lucca, Will, Alfie, Ethan and Roman) throughout their Primary School Cross Country careers having now won the competition at Year 3, Year 4, Year 5 and now Year 6, with the Watson-Quilter brothers Lucca and Roman remaining unbeaten until this season.

Next year, Martinshaw’s loss will certainly be Brookvale’s gain.

Don’t wait around! Come join us!!

Some of our forthcoming events: • Sat 25 Jan: 6 mile walk from Groby Pool • Wed 29 Jan:

Drinks Night, The Stamford Arms, Groby (come and meet us, 8pm onwards)

More details online: www.sociallyleicestershire.co.uk or call: 0116 430 1234 / 07583 488970

Owen Lawrence

Fun but healthy way to start 2014!

THOSE looking for a fun way to make a healthy start to 2014 could try a new sport that is quickly growing in popularity.

In its 5th Birthday Year, the Enderby Dodgeball Club are on the look out for both new male and female players for 2014.

The Enderby Dodgeball session will be held every Tuesday and Thursday from 8.30pm to 10.30pm at the Enderby Leisure Centre on Mill Lane.

Sessions are for those aged 15 and above the club age range is 15-40 plus.

New members do not require any experience as all rules are taught on the night. All new members receive a welcome pack on their first session.

Further information is available from Simon Moody on (07743) 098544 or by email at: enderbydodgeball@googlemail.com and website www. enderbydodgeball.co.uk

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

14

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Christmas for those alone ...

Anstey Christmas Party attracts 87 people Everyone who attended ‘Christmas Day for those alone in Anstey and surrounding villages’ had a great day, volunteers and guests alike. We catered for 87 people! All guests had a lovely 5 course Christmas dinner, 2 presents each and a goody bag stuffed with lots of yummy food.

We started our entertainment with Nigel on the accordian doing a great sing a long, Sean then did some stand up comedy and great magic tricks both on stage and around the tables, and last but not least Dave and Kev with some musical entertainment.

Julie, Matt and I would like to thank all the volunteers who came forward to help both prior to the day and on the day whether that be the initial planning, securing funds, setting up the room, wrapping presents, putting up posters, baking (lovely mince pies and fantastic Christmas cake were donated), providing transport, sitting with the guests interacting and serving them, and most definitely a massive thanks to Julie and all her team for organising, buying and cooking such a wonderful meal on the day (something I definitely do not get involved with as cooking is not my strong point!!).

A massive thanks also to Next for a very generous donation of £250 and a lovely present for each guest, Anstey Parish council for their donation of £200, Kirby Free Church for £150, Age UK for donations of food, and to other companies who helped in some way, Aldi, Midlands Co-op, Sainsburys, Forget-me-knot Anstey, Greens surveyors – Anstey, Cotts beverages, Jacobs bakeries and Boots. Thanks also to St Marys Church, Anstey who although they did have to make a charge this year, don’t charge anywhere near the the full amount for hiring the room and without the room this couldn’t go ahead, so thanks very much for the use of the room once again.

Thanks also to all those people, many of who remained anonymous who donated money. We had various amounts in envelopes through ours or Julie’s door or given direct to the parish council as our funds are with them (thanks to Liz in the parish council for all her help too). Many guests and helpers also donated money on the day as well.

We do hope to be able to do this again in 2014 dependant on enough volunteers, finance etc.. however we were definitely about at capacity for numbers this year so places may have to be limited somehow next year. If anyone knows of anyone else doing this in north Leicestershire (I only know of the salvation army in South Wigston which is a bit far and I think they are about at capacity as well) please contact me so that thinking ahead if we do reach capacity it would be nice to be able to offer people somewhere else to go.

Kerry Sharpe

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Newtown Linford Lunch Club

LADIES WHO LUNCH Ladies, if you enjoy a good meal, good company and good entertainment you might be interested in joining the Newtown Linford Lunch Club. Despite the name you do not have to live in Newtown Linford.

We meet at the Forest Hill Golf Club on the third Wednesday of the month for a three course meal after which we are entertained by a speaker.

In recent months we have enjoyed talks about Hearing Dogs for the Deaf, Advertising Ephemera and Poetry amongst others.

Talks coming up are entitled ‘There’s more to Leicester than cheese’, ‘The Little Theatre’, ‘Kedleston Hall’, ‘Reformatory at Mount St Bernard’s Abbey’ and ‘Chop Sticks and Rituals’ a talk about China. Next December we have the delightful and entertaining Eliza McClelland coming.

There is a friendly atmosphere, the venue is pleasant and the food is good.

Why not give us a try? The three course meal with coffee is £16. If you decide you would like to join our club membership is £20 per year; this pays for the speakers. For more details or to book a meal phone 0116 230 4420.

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Are you an Ultimate Dealer?

IWC Media are are producing a new series called ‘Ultimate Dealers’ for channel 4. They will be filming the show in the first few months of 2014.

In each episode of the programme we will follow pairs of competing second hand goods dealers over the course of a week as they buy items from general auctions and sell them on through a variety of means. The items can be literally anything from washing machines to phones; golf clubs to LP’s – whatever takes their fancy in the sale within their £500 budget. The challenge is simply to make more profit than the competing dealer.

Currently they are searching for dealers to take part in the show.

Do you think you’re an Ultimate Dealer that could give others a run for their money.

Could you buy at auction and sell at a profit? If so they’d like to hear from you.

You don’t necessarily need to be a full time professional trader, but they should have some serious experience in the used goods market and be passionate and enthusiastic about buying and selling. You also don’t have to be antique specialists as they are looking at people who trade in a wide variety of items and you definitely don’t have to have done TV before.

If you’re interested in finding out more, email ultimatedealers@ iwcmedia.co.uk or call on 0141 353 8406 and ask to speak to one of the Ultimate Dealers Team. Dealers will be chosen solely at the discretion of IWC media and any dealer featuring in the programme will be paid an appearance fee.

Words on the Street

Authors @ Leicestershire Libraries An exciting NEW programme of author events is being launched this Spring in libraries across Leicestershire.

Be inspired by bestselling authors and catch debut authors at the start of their careers, meet like-minded people, enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of wine and buy your own personal copies of books for signing on the night.

Book your tickets now to avoid disappointment!

• Alison Moore introduces Kieran Devaney: Saturday 1 February, 6pm Oadby Library • Alison Weir: Friday 7 February, 7pm Oadby Library • Graeme Simsion: Saturday 8 February, 7pm Loughborough Library • Gervase Phinn Wednesday 12 February, 7pm Melton Library Wednesday 12 March, 7.30pm Hinckley Library • Lesley Pearse: Thursday 20 February, 7.30pm Loughborough Library • Alison Moore: Friday 28 February, 6pm Wigston Library • Leanda De Lisle: Saturday 1 March, 2pm Blaby Library • Lindsey Davis: Thursday 6 March, 7pm Loughborough Library • Marianne Whiting: Friday 7 March, 6.30pm Oadby Library Saturday 29 March, 2pm Glenfield Library • Stephen Booth Friday 14 March, 12noon Coalville Library Monday 24 March, 7pm Blaby Library • Lynda Page: Saturday 22 March, 2pm Glenfield Library • Christina James: Thursday 27 March, 6.30pm Oadby Library

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

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

16

• • • •

• • • • • • • •

Groby WI Programme 2014

16th January ‘Murder Most Foul’ Blue Badge Guide 20th February Belly Dancing Theory & Practice 20th March Pudding Taste & Try Evening 17th April ‘You can’t be serious!’

Tales of a Wimbledon Umpire 1988 – 2012 15th May Resolutions 19th June Tai Chi theory & having a go 17th July Stilton Cheese 21st August Stammering Toastmaster 18th September Talk Singing 16th October Farmhouse Cookery Christmas 20th November AGM 11th December History of Sausages Demo & Try

And I quote ...

My definition of an intellectual is someone who can listen to the William Tell Overture without thinking of the Lone Ranger.

Billy Connolly

An interesting year ahead for Groby WI The socialising part of our December meeting was very festive.

A variety of delectable goodies were served on large platters with the minimum of fuss, one platter per table of four; followed by a choice of trifle or fruit jelly and washed down with Buck’s Fizz.

I especially enjoyed the cocktail sausages drizzled with honey before cooking. A lot of work put in by committee members responsible for catering at a time when all our heads are buzzing with stuff at home urgently awaiting attention.

Whilst we were enjoying the Christmas fayre our Speaker Tina Bax demonstrated the art of decorating and wrapping gift parcels. Her ideas came thick and fast but brown paper and double sided craft tape were the most essential items. Wrapping paper can also be created by copying sheet music a great idea for DVD’s etc. Display trays, previously used for showing shallots, presented home made sweets in a most professional manner. She more or less convinced us that everything is wrappable, even a child’s bike can be disguised in a large plastic tablecloth. Bottles and odd shapes are best dealt with by gathering up brightly coloured tissue paper and securing with a ribbon bow. A way of tying bows ensuring the ribbon is viewed on the right side throughout was a useful tip. Cinnamon sticks incorporated in the ties, snapped off to release aroma, helps to portray the spirit of Christmas. A beautiful rosette was made with florists’ ribbon.

I must confess my mind was distracted by the thought that gifts for my ‘difficult’ people had yet to be purchased and none of the presents in hand conformed to the nice angular box shape.

Nil desperandum, for 75p a tube of E6000 (I hope that’s correct) can be purchased which would

bond anything to everything. In view of my personal bonding with Superglue in the past, it was not a good idea in my case. A visit to the Pound Shop for gift bags seemed a sensible solution. One New Year’s resolution, an early start is the only recipe for success.

On a lighter note, Members who belong to the ‘Groby Sings’ choir entertained us with their rendering of the carol ‘The First Day of Christmas’. Audience participation was obligatory. Great fun to round off our most enjoyable Christmas meeting.

Considering it was the festive season, it was a rather quiet month, everyone too busy getting ready for it. However, the walking enthusiasts did their weekly walk from Groby to Glenfield Country Market, enjoying a cuppa as well as a natter. Also as usual, Groby WI entered Groby Church’s Christmas Tree Festival. All the decorations were beautifully handmade, the theme being ‘Carols’. Our entry was Ding Dong Merrily on High.

The cry went out for Members to do bells. The result of which was we got an unbelievable variety of them. Some were done in tatting work, others a mixture of everything you could think of, sequins, ribbons and buttons, you name it and it was on the tree.

Members worked extremely hard and the result was lovely. What a great team of handicraft ladies we have, always led by the usual Christmas Tree Working Party.

We now have our programme out for next year. (See panel on left of this article).

We have a really miscellaneous list of speakers and events.

January begins the year with a talk ‘Murder Most Foul’ given by Blue Badge Guide Caroline Roberts, well it’s quite a different start to the year. Whilst I quite look forward to the next two months, I cannot help but feel they have got it the

wrong way around. February is Belly Dancing Theory and Practice followed by March’s Pudding Taste and Try Evening.

I am assuming by then I have given up my usual New Year’s Resolution, slimming. Mind you, in April there is hope for me as we have Alan Gray’s talk ‘You can’t be serious!’ - Tales of a Wimbledon Umpire. Down to earth in May, Resolutions, we have to decide on four very challenging ones this year, I just am not sure which deserves our support most. Up and at it on June, Tai Chi theory and having a go, speaker Nasser Butt followed by, you have guessed it, July’s Stilton Cheese, why do they keep doing this to me, up one month down another. The next two months are just down my street. Steve West is the Stammering Toastmaster following by our one and only Rev Helen Hayes, talk singing. (I don’t want to boast but I along with a load of others from WI are members of her almost nationally known Groby Sings.) Guess what comes in October I just give up.

Farmhouse Cookery Christmas with Brenda Featherstone.

Back down to earth again with November’s AGM, which usually develops into a very good night out. December, what else can we finish the year up with but Alf Pallett speaking on the History of Sausage, along with demo and a tasting.

Also in our programme we have quite a few trips and events in the pipeline, a few theatre trips, several outings and of course our participation in Groby’s local shows such as The Village Show and the Plant Sale. So do come along, you will find us at The Village Hall every third Thursday in the month, you would be most welcome.

Evelyn and Margaret

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

17

LETTERS

Community Safety Consultation HINCKLEY & BOSWORTH BOROUGH COUNCIL are holding a community consultation period to help feed into the new 3-year Community Safety Strategy and supporting priority plans that need to be in place from 1st April 2014. The consultation period is running between 20/12/2013-20/1/2014.

The survey is already uploaded to complete online on the Hinckley and Bosworth Council website at the following page: https://www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/onlineform?afname=HByjvKPxUdJ

Sponsored bike ride in support of Glenfield Hospital Children’s Heart Unit My name is Natalie Boulton and I’m a paramedic that lives in Markfield.

In June 2014 I plan to carry out a 40 mile sponsored cycle ride to raise money for KEEPTHEBEAT, who raise money for the children and families who may be affected by the possible closure of Glenfield Hospital Paediatric Heart Surgery.

I’m riding from Glenfield Hospital to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, which will be the nearest hospital to patients and families if the unit at Glenfield closes.

I have a facebook group (www.facebook.com/keepthebeatcycleride) and my JustGiving page is www.justgiving.com/Natalie-Boulton.

Natalie Boulton

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

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

I

t’s 51 years since Ray Bradbury wrote Fahrenheit 451 in which society has outlawed books and “firemen” burn any that are found. Thankfully it hasn’t happened although the advances of technology have made books less relevant in some circumstances.

The e-reader enables many books to be kept on a pocket sized electronic device. A world without books is still unimaginable as digital books and knowledge depend on the availability of a power supply.

So the future for books may not be as bleak as it first seems, though that cannot be said for our library service.

The Leicester Mercury has reported that Leicestershire County Council is to focus its dwindling resources in protecting a core network of 17 libraries. The remaining 37, including libraries in Groby, Anstey, Ratby and Markfield would be threatened with closure if no community group comes forward to take them on. This comes as no surprise as the direction of travel was pretty clear when the Council launched its consultation into how to cut spending last summer, as reported in the Spotlight.

1500 active borrowers In 2012/13 around 26,000 visits were made to Groby library by residents and 30,000 books were issued. There were 1500 active borrowers and 200 new members. Following this month’s confirmation that more job losses are on the way, and services will have to be cut, it may be that in a year or two there will be no library to visit and no books to borrow. There may be no Wriggly Readers sessions or wide eyed toddlers dazzled by the array of books they can look at and take home. The elderly will have one less place to visit locally and for some it will mean a little longer sitting alone at home without social contact watching daytime television. And for those without broadband at home their digital world will also shrink.

There will no doubt be a degree of anger at the County Council’s plans and the fact that the only way to preserve the service is to do things differently and move the costs to others. But the fact is that the Council probably has few options.

It has to cut expenditure and this means prioritising the services it

Would a Tesco Express fit on the Groby library site?

Norman Griffiths wonders how far residents will go to save their library implementation is agreed.

No council wishes to embark on a venture which is beyond its ability to deliver or its financial means, and Groby is no exception. “Members believe that our Library is a key resource and should be saved for the local people if at all possible,” said a spokesperson. “However there are significant hurdles and if a community group were to be successfully formed to take over the service we need to know more about the County Council’s proposals so that we can assess what part the Council could play.

provides. So supporters of a local library service probably have to bite the bullet and see what they can come up with. Sometimes change is forced on communities, as in this case, but sometimes communities generate change themselves.

(See some examples in the grey box on the right).

It would be great if the crisis facing the library service would go away, and who knows, it might. But it probably won’t and it’s time for those who wish to see a transition to a sustainable system to start considering the options.

No information is available yet about what support the County Council would offer. Would they offer the building or would they consider it another asset like the land on the site of the old A50 which they have suggested for a housing development? Tesco might find it a nice central site for a convenience store if the trees were felled and the lawns replaced with parking.

For many residents the library assistants are the only front line County Council staff they have contact with, and they would be sorry to see them form part of the further job cuts planned. But sadly it is the staffing cost which at 70% of expenditure is the largest overhead. Other running costs, including maintenance and utilities, were £11,000 and annual income £3,000.

The Council’s statement “We expect to continue to run our town libraries, but we will explore community running of our smaller libraries and possible co-location with other organisations, such as parish councils” said a spokesman for the County Council. “We may have to close libraries if we can’t find partners. We are still working on the detail but the broad proposal is for the county council to offer professional support from its libraries service on a tapering basis to help develop the understanding needed.

We also have a significant volunteer network working with the service already and we hope that we can encourage greater involvement from those experienced volunteers to help.

We have been having exploratory discussions with Ratby, Barrow and Kegworth and these discussions are ongoing.”

It is understood that there have also been discussions concerning Markfield library, but there are as yet no answers to the big questions about such things as library premises, vital issues for any group considering stepping into the void left by the County Council if it retreats to simply offering “professional support from its libraries service”. It is just a proposal at this stage and is highly likely to be followed by a further period of consultation before final

Do you want to save your library?

With 1500 active borrowers there should be no shortage of ideas about how the library service in Groby can be spared the axe and what a local library could actually become when the ties to County Hall are cut and decisions can be made locally. Every campaign needs a leader with a clear vision which inspires others to action, but it is likely that the County Council would probably wish to open initial discussions with the parish council.

Whilst awaiting more information local residents need to consider whether or not they want to save their library and, if they do, how they could help.

An Ipsos Mori survey asked the question “How important or unimportant do you think public libraries are as a service to the community and to you personally?” 74% said Essential/ Very important for the community and 47% for them personally. If you share this view, and are concerned about the future of library services locally, you can learn more about the possibility of community involvement at http://locality.org.uk/ projects/community-managedlibraries-2/ or follow the link from www.grobyonline.tk.

You can read the full Leicester Mercury report at http://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/Library-transfer-plans/story-20420147-detail/ story.html#ixzz2q5YhOhfF

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Examples of Community Action in Groby The United Reformed Church The fund raising task that faced the congregation at the crumbling Groby United Reformed Church must have seemed overwhelming at times, but they were determined. The old building was demolished and replaced with the new church which has gone from strength to strength.

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Pupils entertain the Greys of Groby

Groby Sings When the choir was formed members had no financial commitment as a result of participating. Circumstances changed last year and it was essential to raise funds if the choir was to continue in the same way.

The 200 plus members now make a weekly contribution towards the running costs.

Groby Street Fair Conceived and delivered by a small team of volunteers there was no entry charge in the first year. This couldn’t be sustained because of the substantial costs involved and it became necessary to introduce a modest admission charge.

The Protection Of Land From Development The meadow on Newtown Linford Lane was purchased by public subscription by potential shareholders and substantial financial help from the Parish Council to ensure it continued to be available as open space for the benefit of the village.

The Village Hall Many residents still believe that Groby Parish Council owns and runs the Village Hall, but this is not so. It was bought by fund raising and help from the Parish Council and the County Council. It is independent, run by volunteers who collect the charges, manage the facility, the bookings and much more. It leases the office and council chamber to the parish.

Improving the allotments Parish Councils have a statutory duty to provide allotments where there is sufficient demand. The Parish Council owns Groby’s two sites but Groby Allotment Society suggested that as users they were probably better able to run and improve the allotments. This resulted in the eventual leasing of the land to the Society who introduced a framework of documented procedures and standards and now send out bills, collect rents, manage the allocation of plots, and organise maintenance. This has relieved both councillors and admin staff of a significant workload whilst at the same time improving customer service for users.

In what is now becoming an annual event, Martinshaw Primary School Choir visited Groby Community Centre on Forest Rise, to entertain a very enthusiastic audience to a number of Christmas Songs.

The repertoire started with ‘White Christmas’ which included solos from veteran Lana and first time soloist Isha and included old favourites like ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’ and, of course, ‘Jingle Bells’.

The final song, with actions, was a very energetic rendition of ‘Hey, Father Christmas’ to the tune of ‘In the Mood’ by Glen Miller. The children then joined the audience to sing it, again with actions. It was difficult to tell who was jumping about the most, the Grey’s or the children. Needless to say, a great time was had by all, both the children and their audience.

Owen Lawrence

If you enjoy reading Groby Spotlight, please pass this copy on to a friend or relative when you’ve finished with it. Thanks!

WISE WORDS If you love life, don’t waste time, for time is what life is made up of.

Bruce Lee

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

20

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! www.bricklayersarms.net The Club, Thornton Main Street.

T: 01530 230251 Open To Non-members Sat 18th Jan: Rock Covers Band Sat 1st Feb: Mojo Hand Band Sat 8th Feb: Mighty Gyrators Band Sky Sports In Both Rooms, Bingo Every Tuesday Evening, Bar Snacks Mon Wed Fri, No Membership Required. www.facebook.com/ thethorntonclub The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield.

T: 01530 242 496 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.

SOCIAL DANCE on Saturday 18th January.

Kiddies Playtime Every Saturday between 12 noon and 1.30pm. FREE! 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.

Fri 31st Jan 2014: Comedy Night 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 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 two are on Saturday 18th January and Saturday 1st February with ‘King of the Road’.

Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Fri 17th Jan: Vinnie Deane -Quality Male Guitarist And Singer Sat 18th Jan: Angelz - Very Good Female Vocalists Sun 19th Jan: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Fri 24th Jan: Tyler Jon Excellent Male Vocalist Sat 25th Jan: Voodoo Katz - Quality 3 piece Band Sun 26th Jan: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Fri 31st Jan: Craig Mcgann - Very Good Male Vocalist Sat 1st Feb: Shaun E.b Brilliant One Man Tribute To UB40 Sun 2nd Feb: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Fri 7th Feb: T.b.a.

Sat 8th Feb: Electrax Excellent Male Duo Sun 9th Feb: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz

Send your Local Live Entertainments and we’ll include a mention here FREE - tremendous!

Jottings News in Brief with Norman Griffiths

Arriva 26 route change The change to the route of the 26 Arriva bus service through the village has taken residents by surprise.

The difficulties facing bus drivers because of the size of their newer vehicles and the congestion caused by on street parking have been known for some time but County Councillor O’shea was told by officers at County Hall that the company had no intention to make route revisions.

From Monday 13th, however, Service 26 no longer serves Woodbank Road and Stephenson Drive and will instead run along Ratby Road. In a statement the company said that it monitors its bus services at regular intervals and during recent monitoring the need to make changes to the route has been highlighted to ensure a regular, reliable and robust service that our customers expect and deserve.

When the Groby 28 service frequency was cut to hourly the 26 routing ensured that there was a bus every 30 minutes. This is no longer the case and it is feared that this might impact on the elderly who attend the ‘Greys of Groby’ sessions at the Forest Rise Community Centre.

Councillor O’shea has taken the matter up at County Hall again and managed to send an update to members of Groby Parish Council for their January meeting along with a copy of a response he had received which includes some interesting remarks.

“The service has suffered from punctuality issues along the length of its route including works along the A46/A50 junction and a general increase in congestion in the locality,” said a spokesperson. Residents will be puzzled on two counts. Firstly, why change the route after the A46/A50 works have been completed, and secondly why the works have had any impact at all given that the County Council installed the bus gate which meant that the buses bypassed the island roadworks.

The parking along Stephenson Way “...was not the deciding factor in making this decision ... and (Arriva) hope that that this change will provide an overall improvement in the service for residents,” continued the spokesperson. The only glimmer of hope given is that “there will be ongoing liaison between Arriva and the County Council to look at the monitoring and traffic management proposals which will include discussing the possibility of the 26 running through Woodbank Road and Stephenson’s Way again.”

Budget cuts to hit Community Forum funding?

The Markfield, Ratby & Groby Community Forum, along with 24 other forums across Leicestershire, looks set to be another victim of the budget cuts which the County Council is having to implement.

The next meeting, due to take place on Thursday 20th March 2014, has been cancelled. The County Council is facing significant financial pressures and is required to save £110million, one-third of its revenue budget, over the next four years.

John Sinnott (Chief Executive) said that on Tuesday, 7th January, the Cabinet announced its proposals for achieving the savings required. “Final budget decisions will not be taken until the meeting of the County Council on 19th February and even then there will be further time required for detailed implementation of decisions,” he said. “However, at this point in time I am writing to let you know that there is every likelihood of a significant reduction in the funding available for Community Forums.

The volume and complexity of the service changes and reductions the Council will be required to make is unprecedented. Our engagement and consultation activity will need to focus on the savings proposals which will be taken forward following approval of the Budget in February and in this context continued support for 25 Forums across the County is not likely to be sustainable. I have notified the Chairs and Vice-Chairs of the Forums that, in those circumstances, it is best if the forthcoming round of meetings is cancelled.” He added that he hoped that all concerned in communities will understand the position.

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Local Slimming World Consultants get taken out

by Paddy McGuinness!

It definitely wasn’t a case of ‘no likey, no lighty’ when a group of Slimming World Consultants met comedian and TV presenter Paddy McGuinness at an annual awards ceremony.

The team, who run weekly Slimming World groups in Groby & Markfield, were delighted to get a chance to cuddle up to Paddy when he co-hosted the Slimming World Awards with the organisation’s chair and founder Margaret MilesBramwell OBE. Bolton-born Paddy, who shot to fame in Channel 4 comedy Phoenix Nights alongside school friend Peter Kay before becoming a popular stand-up comedian and TV presenter on shows including ITV1’s Take Me Out, said he thoroughly enjoyed the Slimming World Consultants meet comedian experience. and TV presenter Paddy McGuinness: Michelle He added: “I have to Johnson, Estelle Burton, Hazel Hickson. admit the most I knew about Slimming World before the awards was a gag in Peter’s routine that refers to Slimming World as being a £1 cheaper than its competitors!

“Jokes aside, I was genuinely amazed to hear about what a difference Slimming World makes to people’s lives. At the ceremony I met lots of people who’d lost incredible amounts of weight and it had totally changed their lives. Every single one of them told me that they couldn’t have done it without the support of their Slimming World group and their Consultant.

“Before I started working in comedy I was a fitness instructor so I know how important it is to look after yourself, but equally I know it’s not always easy to motivate yourself. So, having the help and support of someone to keep you on track and be there with advice when you need it really is invaluable.”

Slimming World Consultant Michelle Johnson said meeting Paddy at the event, which was held at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre, was the cherry on the top of a great year for Slimming World groups in Groby & Markfield: “Obviously the most important thing of all is that our members have lost weight and improved their health throughout 2013 and we’re so proud of all of the slimmers in the area – many of them have achieved their target weights and been able do things they never thought possible before slimming down, including doing more with their families, taking up new hobbies, reducing medication or simply fitting in smaller-sized clothes. And they’re helping their entire family to eat more healthily too. But as well as seeing stonking success on the scales, we’ve had a lot of fun throughout the year too – we’ve held parties in group, raised money for charity and members have cheered each other on with every step of their weight loss journey. I can’t wait to see what 2014 holds for Slimming World and I’d love anyone who’s thinking about losing weight this January to join us.

“I truly believe that Slimming World is the best way for people to take control of their weight this New Year. Even if they’ve struggled to stick to slimming plans in the past, I know we can help them to make a change for life this time around – our members are proof of that. Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan isn’t a ‘diet’, we simply help our members to discover new healthy habits and a healthier way of eating that they can enjoy without ever feeling hungry or deprived. By making small easy changes to the way they shop, cook and eat and getting support to overcome the challenges they face along the way, they see a big difference on the scales, a big difference to the way they feel, and a big smile on their face!”

I came home and found my mum slumped in her chair with needles in her arms. She always falls asleep when she’s knitting.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Dementia carers support course coming to Leicester People caring for someone with dementia are being offered the chance to learn more about the condition and how it affects the individual with the return of a series of courses being run by Alzheimer’s Society in Leicester from 23rd January 2014.

‘CRISP’ (Carer Information and Support Programme) aims to help carers understand more about the condition and its symptoms, including the sort of behaviours that people may display which can at times be challenging.

By understanding more about dementia the courses help people to cope better with caring for the individual.

Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Advisor says:‘Relatives of people with dementia often say that it can be really frustrating when someone doesn’t want to change their clothes, have a shower or sleep at night, especially if the person doesn’t accept that there is anything wrong with them.

‘Understanding how the person is trying to make sense of the world, and how they feel about the losses they are experiencing, can help relatives to be more patient and cope better. This, in turn, helps the person with dementia to be more content.

‘The courses will also help people to better understand the changes that occur as dementia progresses and there will be the opportunity for carers to discuss the difficulties they face and what tactics work for them.’

The next four week course starts on January 23rd and will run from 12 til 2.30pm at the Coalville Community Resource Centre (Room 5A), Comet Way, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3FS. The course is free and there is free car parking and refreshments will be provided. For further information or to book a place please call 0116 231 1111 or email leicestershireandrutland@alzheimers.org.uk

y y

Groby

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y

Sings

y

and

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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Markfield Library Book & DVD Sale!

Head over to Markfield library and bag yourself a bargain!

Our sale includes both adult and children’s stock and will be held from Saturday 8th February – Friday 28th February. Stock up your book shelves with popular authors and recent best sellers and check out our ex-rental DVDs and talking books too.

All items are very reasonably priced - don’t miss our bargain book sale!

For more information call the library on: 0116 305 3642.

Transform a teenager’s life this new year A new call is being made to find foster carers who can transform the lives of teenagers in care.

Leicestershire County Council wants to find an extra 40 foster carers and is particularly keen to recruit 10 who can offer loving and stable homes to 13-19-yearolds.

There are nine teenagers in care currently looking for new families where they can feel safe and be supported to become independent

adults.

They include 17-year-old Mat. He has faced enormous challenges, enjoys cooking and with guidance, is hoping he could pursue this as a career.

Hayley, who is 15, will be sitting her GCSEs next year and wants to be able to study and relax, knowing that she is safe and cared for.

Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Fostering a teenager can be

challenging but your time and patience will help them to flourish and is an extremely rewarding experience.

“If you can set clear boundaries and have a spare bedroom, you could help to turn around a teenager’s life around.

“We will provide you with training and support to enable you to make a real difference to the lives of young people - if you think you’ve got what it takes, we’d encourage you to get in touch and find out more.”

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

Fostering can involve caring for a teenager for a few days, offering respite to mums and dads or providing a longer term home - specialist training and support will be offered. It takes between four and six months for new foster carers to be approved.

Anyone can be considered for fostering, whatever their circumstances - whether they are retired, married or single, gay or straight - to find out more, please visit www.spaceforachild.com or call 0116 305 0505.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Spotlight Millennium Green News Small Ad • Antique etched glass wine decanter in decorative wrought iron stand.

Price: £45.00 • Original 1960s anglepoise desk lamp.

Price: £45 Tel: 0116 287 0378

If you have any household items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Spotlight, please SEND DETAILS by post or email - sorry, we can’t take them over the phone. Our postal address is Spotlight Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

And I quote ...

Everybody knows how to raise children, except the people who have them.

P. J. O’Rourke

It began to rain at 6.28pm on Saturday December 21st as stalwart supporters of the Millennium Green arrived to sing carols.

As the rain got harder the singing got quicker and eventually a few mince pies were eaten and mulled fruit punch drunk before the ‘choir’ of thirty people hurried home. We hope you have all dried out by now!

At the start of the New Year we are keen to hear from anyone who has new ideas for community or fund-raising events. Our Annual General Meeting is a time for reflection of the year past and plans for the year to come. This year it is being held at Park House on Stamford Street in Glenfield on Monday February 24th beginning at 7.30pm. Light refreshments will be served after the business part of the meeting and than we will be talking about our future plans. Please join us if you can.

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

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

Everyone welcome.

• Tuesday 18th February - AGM and supper celebrating our 40th anniversary.

• Tuesday 18th March - Egyptology’, the architecture and mythology together with exhibits - a talk by Susan Tebby.

• Tuesday 15th April - ‘Technology of the English Country House’, a talk

by Wendy Freer.

• Saturday 12th April - THE ‘GREAT OUTDOORS’ - 10am - 4pm at Ratby Sports Ground, Desford Lane, Ratby. LEG OLE. Free parking. A gathering of clubs, groups and local businesses involved in outdoor pursuits and activities. Watch the displays/demonstrations taking place and perhaps discover a new interest or challenge in life. Visit ratbvvillaoe@aol.com Two local charities - LOROS and the Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre, Leicester will benefit from monies raised at the event.

Don’t forget to send us your news!

Email items of local interest to: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk or drop a line to: Groby Spotlight PO Box 8 Markfield Leics.

LE67 9ZT

Fair Cuppa:

an opportunity to meet with friends at the village hall.

Every Thursday, 10.30-12.00

Coming soon!

Booking details will be in schools very soon!

Urban Saints is held during term time, at the URC chapel: there are games, friends, crafts and a Christian basis to discussions.

- for 5’s to 14’s on Mon evenings at 3.45pm, 6.30pm or 7.45pm - for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm - for 15-18’s on Fri at 7.30pm More details on the church websites

Youth Worker Ruth O’Connell 07759 087804

Chattabox is a half term holiday club for primary school children in Groby.

Catch

meets for play, craft, story & chat for pre-school children with a parent or carer.

Catch meets every Friday in term time, 9.30-11.30am, at the URC. For further information please see websites and church magazines St. Philip and St. James www.bradgateteam.org.uk Revd. Louise Corke 0116 231 3090 United Reformed Church www.grobyurc.com Revd Sue McKenzie 0116 232 1733 Youth Worker Ruth Cross 07759 087804

Statistically 6 out of 7 dwarves aren’t Happy.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

News from Newtown Linford Gardening Club 2013 was a superb year for the gardening club with record membership and some exciting and interesting events in our calendar.

We now look forward to 2014 with the same amount of enthusiasm and we have a programme which we hope will fill the bill. Our traditional events of speakers, trips and parties remain but we add a new venture in April with a plant fair which we hope will prove popular.

Our open evening with a celebrity speaker is also repeated. This time we will welcome multi-winning Chelsea garden designer Adam Frost who is now beginning to make his mark on television gardening shows.

Our full programme for the year is as follows:-

My dear Nephew Darren Thank you for visiting me in hospital – although next time, should you once again kindly bring me a bottle of orange juice, would you please empty it at home and re-fill it with gin and tonic.

Sept 23rd: So Very Versatile Perennials Ian Cooke (RHS Judge)

Feb 25th: Delightful Daisies Dr Andrew Ward

Dec 2nd: Christmas Party

April 26th: Plant Fair May 27th: Visit to Glebe Garden Centre June 24th: Cyclamen in Cultivation and Wild Vic Aspland July 22nd: Summer Garden Party Aug 19th: Visit to RHS Harlow Carr

On when the vicar lands in hospital St. James the Least

Nov 4th: An Open Evening with Adam Frost - (Chelsea Gold Medal Garden Designer)

April 22nd: Geraniums Mike Darch

Letter from Uncle Eustace

The Rectory

Jan 28th: Gardener’s Quiz Mick Eaton (Leicester City Parks)

Mar 25th: Healthy Eating with Fruit and Veg David Thornton (Nat. Veg. Society)

25

We have welcomed a large number of new members this year and will be pleased if others want to join us.

If you are interested in our activities just contact the secretary (tel. 01530 242452 or e-mail 01530242452@talktalk.net), or come to one of our meetings to see how you like it before making a commitment (£2 for visitors).

Alternatively give us a ring and ask for a copy of our programme for the coming year and we will be pleased to send one to you.

Anne and David Couling

While I know you had dashed from taking a primary school assembly, that still did not excuse you beginning your bedside prayer by telling me to sit up straight, close my eyes and put my hands together.

To fall on ice and break a leg was careless; to do so on the afternoon before a difficult church council meeting has been judged deliberate. After falling in the road and being unable to get up, it was remarkable how many parishioners formed a circle to watch; the magazine editor even had the cheek to take photos for the cover of next month’s magazine, although I did draw the line when she suggested I was dragged across the pavement to where the light was better.

As I lay there, immobile, discussion started about who should chair that evening’s meeting, whose responsibility it would be to arrange cover for that Sunday’s Services – someone even had the gall to wonder if I should be asked to pay for their help, since I was the one who chose to fall over.

I felt obliged to suggest it may be helpful if someone called an ambulance, which someone reluctantly did, while others sympathetically asked me if I never got mobile again, which nursing home I would like to be placed in.

I was tempted to suggest whether they should hold a collection to pay for having me put down. Miss X regarded it as her Christian duty to force a cup of sweet tea on me; I am sure her solution to news of an imminent nuclear strike, meteorite collision, or the arrival of bubonic plague, would be to put the kettle on.

As it happened, one of the ambulance men lives in the village and saw it as the perfect opportunity, while they were placing me on a stretcher, to ask how he went about booking a baptism and seemed mildly disappointed that I didn’t happen to have my diary to hand.

Now I have nowhere to hide for the next few weeks, people have realised they know where I am and that I can’t get away from them. There have therefore been endless visits and after a brief question about how I am, by which time it is obvious they have no interest in my answer, they launch into questions about the flower rota, who chooses the hymns in my absence and where to get Communion wine.

Should you visit again, would you please bring information about hospitals in another county – possibly even on another continent.

Your loving uncle,

Eustace

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

ord Search Puzzle

http://puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com/c Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Masters Snooker Wordsearch The Jester from Leicester

S T E P H E N H E N D R Y R R

N K P Z R V I V D S P S S O M

B E O A F W P Z I P M P N L A

S Z I F U E T V L A E N N Y T

V N S L T L A E I N I C D A T

Y W I N R D H L R E H I W T H

ALANMCMANUS DENNISTAYLOR DINGJUNHUI JOHNHIGGINS MARKSELBY MARKWILLIAMS MATTHEWSTEVENS NEILROBERTSON PAULHUNTER RONNIEOSULLIVAN STEPHENHENDRY STEVEDAVIS

L B O G E O L U O U N C U S E

X M L V G I B S N G Q P N I W

Find the names of the last 12 winners of the Snooker Masters Trophy in this month’s Wordsearch puzzle and you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty prize of: A Main Course for Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel.

To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - the names of the last 12 players to win the prestigious Masters Snooker Title. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!).

D H E E W I U E J T H C J N S

K T C K S L H U R T E G U N T

S U R W L K N N D T K R V E E

N A R I G H R E H V S Y H D V

M J V M U B K A B O V O A S E

U A R I M H M E M C J K N Z N

N S U N A M C M N A L A J Z S

Send your entry to: MAXIMUM BREAK, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Wednesday 5th February 2014. Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s Cue Case will win the Meal for Two at The Fieldhead Hotel. Good luck!

Here are the 12 SNOOKER MASTERS you have to find:

ALAN MCMANUS • DENNIS TAYLOR • DING JUNHUI JOHN HIGGINS • MARK SELBY • MARK WILLIAMS MATTHEW STEVENS • NEIL ROBERTSON • PAUL HUNTER RONNIE OSULLIVAN • STEPHEN HENDRY • STEVE DAVIS Name: .................................................................................................

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

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch competition was: MRS C. YORK of Elsalene Drive, Groby Your prize - a Voucher for a Main Course for Two plus a Bottle of House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel will be sent to you within 21 days.

Post Office launches Advisory Council to support transformation The Post Office, which is currently undergoing the biggest transformation in its 370 year history, has announced the launch of a new Advisory Council which will engage with people interested in helping influence the future of the Post Office.

The Advisory Council is looking for members to participate, whether they are a customer, someone already working in a Post Office branch, or an interested business or charity group.

Paula Vennells, Chief Executive of the Post Office said: “Following our separation from Royal Mail, this is an exciting time for the Post Office as we build a customer focussed, multi-channel retailer with a powerful public purpose.

“Around 18 million people use our 11,700 Post Offices and thousands more use postoffice.co.uk every week. We really value the important role we play in communities across the UK, from high streets and city centres to small villages where our Sub postmasters may operate the only shop in the village.

“The Advisory Council will play an important role in reflecting a cross section of views, skills and experience from the diverse communities which make up 21st century Britain. So we want to hear from the people and organisations that value our services and want to work with us to innovate, support the transformation of our business and inspire a bright future for the Post Office.”

The Post Office Advisory Council will be made up of between 20 to 30 members to provide a broad mix of people and interests. Members will bring wider geographical, community, social and commercial perspectives to the work of the Advisory Council. The Council will meet three times a year from March 2014, and membership will be on a voluntary basis.

Applications close on the 31st January 2014. Those interested in finding out more about the Council and how to apply can visit www.corporate. postoffice.co.uk/advisory or call 0800 013 0198.

Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com

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

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • JANUARY 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

01162 879760

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NEED A NEW BOILER? SEDBUK ‘Band A’ Condensing Boilers Installed At Very Competitive Prices

If you’d like to advertise in Groby Spotlight, phone Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069 or email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Dentures At Home Emergency Mobile

Emergency Denture Repair Service 7 Days a Week 'XSOLFDWH GHQWXUHV VSDUH VHWV DYDLODEOH ZHHN GD\V

+DYH \RX JRW D VSDUH VHW RI GHQWXUHV" 6RIW ORZHU GXSOLFDWH GHQWXUHV DYDLODEOH /DUJH UDQJH RI DOO TXDOLW\ WHHWK DYDLODEOH DFU\OLF WR SRUFHODLQ 30 years experience to the TRADE

David Smith - 1 The Burrows, Narborough

0116 275 0101 (home) 07880 973 742 (mobile) I’ve just seen a huge Egyptian woman sticking her backside out the window of a car. It was a two-ton car moon.