January 2016 herald online by Michael Wilkinson

Happy New Year!

It’s Pantomime Time

THIS WEEK! MTTG’s Annual Pantomime, “Sleeping Beauty” at Thornton Community Centre. Monday 18th to Saturday 23rd January at 7.30 nightly, with a Saturday Matinee at 3.00 p.m. Larger-than life characters, merriment and music abound as we retell the age-old story of the Princess who falls under a wicked enchantment. The pantomime, entirely suitable for a family audience, offers a fun-filled evening of first-class entertainment for all. If you haven’t been to see an MTTG production before, then why not come to this one? We’re sure that you won’t be disappointed and we, members of your local Amateur Dramatics Group, would be very appreciative of your support. There are tickets, (Adults £5, Concessions £4), left for the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday performances which may be booked on 01455 822148.

Concert raised over £500 THE CHRISTMAS Concert by Stanton Under Bardon Singers and Musicians on 11th December and Carols Round The Village on 14th December with over 35 singers including enthusiastic children, raised a wonderful sum of £534.00 for The Salvation Army Urgent Appeal, which helped the Homeless, Hungry, and Lonely over the Christmas period. Many, many thanks to all in Stanton Under Bardon who supported these events and to James and Irene of The Old Thatch Inn who supplied the mulled wine and mince pies after a hectic sing.

JANUARY 2016

HOW WE CELEBRATED! FROM CAROL singing to the Queen’s speech, Brussels sprouts to bells, crackers to carols by candlelight, advent calendar to Christmas afternoon tea and many more, the Christmas traditions which were celebrated at Markfield Methodist Church festival showed the talents and ingenuity of church members and friends. Twenty three traditions were depicted by trees or arrangements making a wonderful display which was enjoyed by many visitors over the weekend. Twenty contributions were from church members and we are also grateful for the support of three village groups. The Markfield library staff provided “Twas the Night Before Christmas” – a fireplace complete with Santa’s legs and a mouse named Chris Mouse who, contrary to the poem, was often stirred by inquisitive children - and even a few adults! The bells on the Parish Council’s tree bore an inscription conveying the council’s Christmas good wishes which were gratefully received, and Markfield WI’s knitted Christmas dinner (hence the sprouts) delighted and intrigued us all. The central display was a pile of attractively-wrapped presents with the crib as the focal point, reminding us that Jesus is the gift of Christmas. We were asked that in our giving and receiving of presents we might remember the first Christmas. As well as enjoying the significance of each tradition there was the opportunity to be part of the tradition of carol singing. For an hour on Saturday afternoon favourite carols were sung during a café-style session and everyone left feeling that they had truly imbibed the Christmas spirit.

Linda Walmsley

Have a heart ... THE PHOTO on the right shows Anne, Ken and Glenda presenting a cheque for £440 to Russell Brickett of Wishes 4 Kids. The money was raised at a charity dance at The Club, Bagworth in November. This is a very worthwhile local charity and Russell assured everyone that the money would be well spent in order to make a wish come true for a very deserving child. The next charity dance is on Friday 5th February at 8 pm at The Club, Bagworth. Again another very deserving charity has been chosen to be the recipient of the money raised. The charity is the British Heart Foundation and the date coincides with events taking place nationally on that day in order to provide much needed cash. People attending the charity dance are encouraged to wear something red. Music will be provided by Ken’s CDs. Entrance is £2.50 and further money is raised by a raffle which takes place during that evening. This is always a well attended and very enjoyable event. If you are unable to attend, but would like to make a donation, this can be done on 01530 230467.

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 13th February - Adverts & Articles Needed By 30th January

Stanton Under Bardon Village Hall THE FIRST Christmas Fayre was held at Stanton village Hall on 6th December and was a resounding success. Thanks are due, once again, to the Entertainments Sub-Committee for their hard work, to Santa for making our wishes come true but mainly to those who turned out to support us. The Trust are now turning their attention to events for 2016 and a cinema evening has already been booked with Phoenix Arts for 6th February – so put the date in your diary. We don’t know yet which film will be shown, but posters will be around the village nearer the time. Consequent upon the retirement of Ian Briggs, Mark Stephens has become the new Chairman. Regrettably, Liz Foster has resigned from the Trust due to personal reasons and the Trust are in the process of recruiting replacements. It is hoped that a day-time exercise class for the active over 50’s will be starting in the New Year. Advertisements will appear in the Herald, so if you are interested, please give it your support. It has come to our attention that some people believe that the Hall is not licensed for music. This is not true. The Hall is fully licensed for both live and recorded music. The only restriction, required by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, is that recorded music, such as dance music, and microphones etc. must be played through the attenuator. This is so that disturbance to neighbours is minimised. The Hall also has a licence for alcohol; however, if a hirer wishes to sell alcohol, the Trust must be informed and involved – that’s it really. Yes to music, yes to alcohol (with restrictions). The Trustees want, if possible, to arrange activities for the Hall that YOU will attend, so if you would like to see any activity happen in the Hall and think it will be well supported, please contact a Trustee either through an email at stantonvillagehall@gmail.com or drop a note into the letter box at the Hall. All ideas will be considered. If you want to hire the Hall for your own event, rates are very reasonable, as little as £5 per hour for residents! Bookings for January include yoga, boot camp and Irish dancing for children. If you are interested, email the above.

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Seriously contemplating remarrying my ex wife, but I’m pretty sure she’ll figure out that I’m just after my money.

Coalville Library’s Shared Reading Group Celebrate COALVILLE Library’s ‘Make Friends with a Book’ group have celebrated their first anniversary with us.

The group has gone from strength to strength with a regular gathering meeting weekly to chat and share their ideas about stories and poems. To mark the occasion on Tuesday 5th January, the obligatory tea and biscuits were served in addition to a birthday cake. ‘Make Friends with a Book’ is a reading group with a difference. Stories and poems are read aloud to the group by a trained volunteer. The members share their thoughts and experiences about what they have heard forming friendships and finding things in common. People are welcome to join in or just sit back and listen if they prefer. There are already many successful groups running, including several in other parts of Leicestershire, including in Loughborough and Hinckley Libraries. Everyone is welcome to join Coalville Library’s group, which meets every Tuesday, 1pm – 2.30pm. The group is free, there’s always a cup of tea and good chat waiting for you and you can come as often as you like or just drop in. For more information contact the library on: 0116 3053565 or email: coalvillelibrary@leics.gov.uk

‘Socks and Chocs’ at Christmas SOUTH CHARNWOOD Year 11 pupil Lauren Glasgow exemplified the Christmas spirit at the Dawn Centre in the centre of Leicester. From September to December Lauren asked people to donate a new pair of socks and a bar of chocolate to be given to the homeless at Christmas. The idea for ‘Socks and Chocs’ came from Ian Northcott an ex armed serviceman who wanted to help homeless people. During his service as an Officer Ian would always insist that the men under his command wore a clean pair of socks every day to make them feel “fresh”, hence the name ‘Socks and Chocs’ (chocolates were just added to the gift as a little sweetener). Lauren collected over 5 bags full of socks and 8 boxes of chocolates and delivered them personally to the Dawn Centre for distribution. It is always nice to think of others at Christmas. Well done, Lauren. Our picture shows Lauren surrounded by the bags of donated socks and chocolates.

Relationship or hallucination? I don’t care. Either way, I’m seeing somebody.

News from Bardon Park Chapel

County Councillor’s Report from David Sprason Council budgets, disappearing services, flooding and increasing local taxes NO NOT a result of over indulgence over the festive period but the consequences of a government continuing to cut the support grant for local services. The deliberate switch in how local services are funded is clear as it is moving away from central taxation to local taxation and is gathering pace. As I have previously said political parties and governments of all colours talk about devolving power down to a ‘local level’. A great idea I hear you say, but in reality unlike Scotland, Wales and Ireland this has never happened for councils in England. It is interesting to note that overseas aid is funded more generously than local authorities. With the unprecedented population growth we have seen over recent years has added even more pressure on local services. The previous and current government for instance dictate to local authorities the number of houses it is required to build. It would appear that the national planning policy framework (NPPF) allowed local authorities through a ‘local plan’ to say where the houses would go. Another good sound bite but in reality this has not protected us from over development or our green fields from being built on. The government’s NPPF has actually resulted in a centrally dictated developer’s charter with no thought to the

impact on ‘local services’ and infrastructure. Governments of differing colours have added ‘local’ to service delivery to look like they are moving to a new form of governance. It has actually moved the other way and introduced a system of ‘centralised localism’. The final nail in the coffin is the local government finance settlement that sees Leicestershire’s current £56 million government grant disappear by 2020. Leicestershire County Council has already saved £80 million over the previous four years. This has included cuts to bus subsidies, off loading libraries, reduced opening of household waste sites, cuts to youth services, tougher rules to access social care and the closure of museums. The Government has included in its projections an annual council tax increase of 2% plus a 2% council tax levy ring-fenced for social care. It is also clear that over the next 4 years councils will increase stealth taxes by charging for even more services such as waste and recycling collection. So when you hear the phrase ‘localism’ just reflect on what that should mean as currently it is just used as a sound bite by ministers for appeasing local politicians, while in reality it is used to cut quality ‘local services’, increase local taxes and destroy our local heritage. The Government has announced its commitment to move local government towards full business rate retention by 2020 which allows it to keep all business rates including growth, subject to equalisation. It will allow local authorities to be able to reduce the business rate. Only elected Mayors will be allowed to increase business rates as long as they have the support of the unelected LEP (Local Enterprise Partnerships).

www.bardonchapel.co.uk

This is meant to compensate for the phasing out of the revenue support grant. It will come with extra powers and responsibilities to make the reform fiscally neutral, these include funding Public Health, Transport capital funding and housing benefit administration. The review of business rate administration reform will not be announced until the Budget 2016. Like all central government announcements the devil will be in the detail. The cynic in me will still believe that central government ignores local voices and instead sets its priorities on devolving more money and power to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, increasing Foreign Aid, investing in the white elephant HS2 and the increasing cost of our club membership of the European Union. You will all be aware that we will be having a referendum on whether we remain or leave the European Union as the legislation has now passed through parliament. It is the first time many of you will have a say on our membership of this club. The Leave campaigns are already active in pointing out the costs and the impact the EU has on the UK from numerous directives to the freedom of movement. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity for you to have your say on how we are governed and represented in the future. I will continue to try and get our fair share of a diminishing funding pot. Finally can I wish you all a Happy New Year.

Worship Service: Every Sunday morning at 10.30 am. Our gatherings are fairly informal. Everyone most welcome. The Monthly Praise Meeting: (1st Saturday in each month, except August and January) at 3.00pm. Come and enjoy a lively time of singing, encouragement, fellowship, testimonies and uplifting messages. Light refreshments afterwards in the school room. Find us at the roundabout at the junction of Shaw Lane (A 511), Bardon Road (A 511) and Beveridge Lane (B 585), take the Leicesterbound (eastbound) carriageway of the A 511 road and the chapel is on the left after about 50 metres. There is a large car park at the back. For more details on any of the above please contact: Richard Norburn on Tel: 01530 242526.

Markfield WI Programme 2016 • •

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‘The Chatterbox’ – Friendly Discussion group seeks new members at Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation AS A REGISTERED charity the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation prides itself on offering a welcoming, supportive setting for those living in the local community and throughout Leicestershire. A new inclusive social group ‘The Chatterbox’ will meet every first Friday of the month from 2.30pm – 3.45pm at Ulverscroft Grange, Whitwick Road, Ulverscroft, Leicestershire LE67 9QB. The informal discussion group will be welcoming new members on Friday 5th February from 2.30pm – Booking is essential and complimentary tea and cake will be available to all those attending! Monthly sessions will continue throughout 2016, with the Foundation welcoming a donation of £1.00 per person to include a refreshment. Helen Baxter, Activities coordinator at the Foundation, said ‘We are encouraging those in the locality to join our new discussion group! Our meet ups will consist of an hour of informal friendly discussion, and are open to all ages and abilities’. She added ‘we are delighted to have the support of LASU, (Leicestershire Adult Schools Union) and we hope to provide a platform for individuals to share ideas and knowledge in a supportive and stimulating way!” For more information and to book a place, please contact Activities Coordinator Helen Baxter on 01530 244914 or email hello@shuttlewood-clarke.org

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Jan 20th : Hugh Mackay Crofters of Scotland 17th Feb : Kath Reynolds Goose Grease & Brown Paper 16th March: Will Gilding Clarice Cliff, Moorcroft, Lalique & other 20th Treasures 20th April: George Hook Mother of Pearl 18th May: Resolutions Taste and Try 15th June: TBA Meal out 20th July: Canine Partners 17th Aug: Brian Johnson Who do you think lived in a House like this? 21st Sept: David Siddon The Fascination of the English Language 19th Oct : Ali Groschl The Art of Fused Glass 16th Nov: Julie Ede Wonderful, Wicked, Wily Wallis 21st Dec: Ian Rogerson Turkey Talk

My phone spends so much time stuck to a charger, I might as well just call it a landline

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Tel: 01530 244069

Carol singing outside the Running in Co-op in Markfield Bradgate Park COUNTY residents of Markfield, Field Head, Stanton-under-Bardon, Thornton and Bagworth are openly welcome to join a free running club. The Running in the Park Group runs through Bradgate Park.

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Contact Mike Wilkinson with your articles, news items or advertising enquiries. Printed by Norwood Press in Ellistown. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Herald Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. The Herald cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. The Herald reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © The Herald None of the articles or adverts contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from The Herald. This issue of The Herald is being delivered by The Herald’s team of dedicated deliverers, namely: Sarah Jane, Maureen, John, Lyn, Lily, Ian, Ann, Gill, Sandra, Jeanie, Jenny, Calum, Lisa, Yvonne, Ray, Margaret, Daniel, Jessie, Selina, Jessica, Charlotte, Mike and Rowan

NEXT ISSUE OUT ON 13th February DEADLINE: 30th January

FOR A SECOND successful year members of ‘Churches Together in Markfield’ spent an enjoyable hour singing carols outside Markfield Co-op on Saturday 19th December, the last Saturday morning before Christmas. The weather was quite mild and we were glad not to have rain as in the previous year. Everyone had a great time singing and a leaflet telling the Christmas Story was handed out to shoppers as they completed their Christmas shopping. Some shoppers and staff from the Co-op came to sing with us and we were delighted to be joined by people who had seen the notices around the village and stayed with us for nearly the whole session! It was a great way to begin the Christmas festivities. We would like to thank the staff of the Co-op for allowing us to hold the event and for their support (and some much appreciated chocolates!), as well as all those who took part. We are certainly planning to sing again next year so keep your eyes peeled for adverts around the village. Happy New Year to you all!

Sessions start on a Monday at 10am and last approximately an hour. The group meet and set off from near the entrance of the Newtown Linford Entrance adjacent the Bradgate Park Car Park on Bradgate Road. All abilities are catered for. Newcomers are welcome to bring a friend. Suitable clothing and footwear are recommended. visit www. runengland.org for more information. Or just turn up!

Mark James Leicester

LFE Film Evenings

Personal Care Worker Lady in Markfield requires support with tasks around her home and garden, assistance to access the community and activities of interest. Female required as need assistance to access toilet facilities. Must have clean driving license. 16 hrs p/w £8.50 p/h Enquiries to 0116 305 7990 dpssrecruitmentline@leics.gov.uk. Quote ref JS239

LFE Film Evenings will be showing on Thursday 3 March 2016 “Suffragette”. Category: Drama/History [4*]: UK 2014, (12A), 1hr 50min. Suffragette dramatizes an important – and still painfully relevant – fact-based story with more than enough craft and sincerity to overcome its flaws. They were the women foot soldiers of the early feminist movement, women who were forced underground to pursue a dangerous game of catand-mouse with an increasingly brutal State. Cast: Carey Mulligan, Anne-Marie Duff, Helena Bonham Carter, Meryl Streep, Ben Whishaw Venue: the Parish Hall, Kings Drive, LFE. Cost: £5. Doors open at 7.00pm when a complimentary hot drink and biscuits will be provided. The show starts at 7.30pm.

Love is telling someone to go to hell and worrying about them getting there safely.

7 Two weekends in January

A50 roundabout closures LANE RESTRICTIONS on the A50 roundabout approaches to the Glenfield Turn and County Hall will be lifted while improvement works are halted over the Christmas and New Year period. Work starts again on 4 January. However, access to the roundabout itself will not be possible over two weekends in January to allow road resurfacing to be completed. The roads will close at 8pm on Friday 15 and re-open at 6am on Monday 18 January, and close again at 8pm on Friday 22 and re-open at 6am on Monday 25 January. During the two weekends, diversion routes will be clearly signed and traffic marshals will be on duty to provide advice to motorists if needed. Councillor Peter Osborne, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for transport, said: “We are very conscious of the major disruption to motorists, particularly during these two weekends in January and thank everyone for their continued patience. “Once the work has been completed, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians will see their journey times improve.” Anybody visiting Leicestershire County Council, the Gynsills or the Premier Inn on Championship Way will have to do so via Gynsill Lane. Leaving the area will only be possible by using the A50 towards Leicester City Centre. Diversion routes will be signed. Glenfield Hospital can only be accessed via the signed diversion route. Motorists will not be able to access the Shell petrol station on Groby Road during the closure. The A50 roundabout improvement work is due to be completed by March 2016 and will provide improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists as well as increased capacity for motorists.

Christmas Day 2015 For those alone in and around Anstey EVERYONE who attended Christmas day for those alone in Anstey and surrounding villages had a great day, volunteers and guests alike. We catered for 81 people! All guests had a lovely 5 course Christmas dinner, a present each and a goody bag stuffed with lots of yummy food.

The Ceri Dupree Show CERI DUPREE has been delighting audiences worldwide for almost 50 years. His unique talents have led him through musical theatre, pantomime, summer seasons, television and cabaret. LOROS are delighted to announce that the Ceri Dupree Show will be at the Symphony Rooms, 121 Burnmoor Street, Leicester on Friday 11th March 2016 with a sensational evening of visual comedy. Tickets are priced at £10 each and are available from LOROS Fundraising on 0116 231 8484.

We enjoyed great entertainment with fabulous musicians and of course a few games of bingo! We 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, providing transport, hosting a table, and last but so very much not least all those involved in the catering, the meal was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and catering for 81 is not an easy task! A massive thanks also to Next for a very generous donation of all the lovely presents for everyone, Anstey Parish council for their donation of £200 (and to Liz the parish Clerk who is always really helpful), and to other companies who helped in some way including Jacobs bakeries, Aldi, Midlands Co-op, Sainsbury’s, Taylors of Harrogate (Yorkshire tea), Domestic and General and those local to us - Greens surveyors, Roots and Fruits and the Anstey Nomads. Thanks to individual people who have donated cash or goods – it is very much appreciated. Thanks also to St Marys Church, Anstey who 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 for reading and a happy New Year

Kerry Sharpe

I’d probably be more of a go getter if I knew what I was going to get.

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HERALD

Unveiling Of Plaque at Stanton Village Hall

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STANTON-UNDER-BARDON Parish Councillors Bernie West, Mary Briggs and Ian Briggs (Chairman of the Stantonunder-Bardon Village Hall Trust) were present at the unveiling of the plaque acknowledging the support given by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council to the new village hall. Funding from the Parish and Community Initiative Fund and by the Parish Council enabled the Village Hall Trust to purchase much needed equipment for the Hall. The Trust would like to thank both the Parish Council and Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council for their support.

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SEND your Small Ads IN WRITING to: The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or email to: info@markfieldherald. co.uk (please include your address - not for publication).

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Don’t forget to send us your news! Thanks

What’s in a name? AT A RECENT baptism, when the Vicar said “Name this child,” I wondered what had influenced the parents in their choice. Was it, like me, named after my father - or, like my sister, named after a favourite aunt? One thing is certain - the child is known by that decision for life (unless he or she changes it as, for example, Reginald Dwight did. And the popularity of names changes. We still hear the biblical names Matthew, Mark, Luke and John used regularly, but hardly ever hear Archibald, Arthur, Albert or Alfred. Surnames sometimes historically follow the family trade or profession Smith, Farmer, Butler, Carter. My own is probably a diminutive of Forrester (which probably accounts for my fascination for gathering firewood! A final thought about our Church, dedicated to St.Peter, about whom Jesus said, “Upon this rock, I will build my church” (Matthew 16v18). And it is built on the ancient rock of Charnwood.

National Nestbox Week 14th – 21st February

WITH LESS and less trees and undergrowth, but more pollution and people around, birds can struggle to survive these days. National Nestbox Week aims to encourage you to put up nest boxes in your local area, in order to promote and enhance biodiversity and conservation of our breeding birds and wildlife. After more than 15 years it has become a well-established part of the ornithological calendar. More details at: www.bto.org/aboutbirds/nnbw

Now that oil is so cheap, we should start drilling for black printer ink.

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600,000 people in the East Midlands cutting back on winter essentials to pay their rent or mortgage THE NEW YEAR may not be very happy for hundreds of thousands of people in the East Midlands, as research by Shelter reveals over a quarter of rent or mortgage payers in the region are cutting back on winter heating and clothing to meet their housing payments. This is the equivalent to 600,000 people. The study by housing and homelessness charity Shelter and YouGov shows the strain people in the East Midlands face this January, with 1 in 18 rent or mortgage payers fearing they will be unable to meet their housing costs this month. This is despite the fact that many have already cut back on Christmas to help pay their rent or mortgage, including reducing their spending on presents and food. With our shortage of affordable homes leaving many families struggling with sky high housing costs, over 100,000 people have sought advice on housing debt from Shelter’s helpline, online, or face-to-face services in the last year. The charity is urging anyone starting to have difficulties paying their rent or mortgage to get help as early as possible to avoid losing their home. Shelter’s helpline adviser Danielle Goodwin said: “It never gets easier to hear someone on the phone in tears, and at breaking point from the weight of their spiralling housing payments. “Every day at Shelter we hear from families who face the bleak choice between missing their rent or cutting back on heating – even though their families have barely had a Christmas to celebrate. “So many people are feeling the pinch and there’s no shame in asking for help, which is why Shelter is here 365 days a year. Getting advice early can make all the difference, and we’re only ever a click or a call away at shelter.org. uk/advice or on 0808 800 4444.” Case study: Michelle and her family have had the threat of eviction hanging over them since husband Kevin became selfemployed in his job as a builder. “Even though my husband works as many hours as he can,

Extracts from the Unapproved Minutes of the Markfield Parish Meeting held on Tuesday 1st December 2015 at 8.00pm at the Methodist Chapel, Markfield. (May be subject to alteration or correction.)

it’s constantly hand to mouth. We cut back on everything to pay the rent – including food. When the children are at school the heating isn’t on at all, and over Christmas we had to cut back on presents and clothing. “I try to hide it as much as I can from my youngest children but they know they can’t ask for treats, and not to let anyone they don’t know into the house in case the bailiffs come round. I hate living like that. I recently went to the doctor because the stress of it all has made my asthma worse. “When I rang Shelter my adviser was really supportive and I felt for the first time, there might be light at the end of the tunnel. I found out that there are things you can do to stay in your home.”

Shelter helpline adviser Danielle Goodwin’s top 5 tips on dealing with rent and mortgage debt: 1. Ask for help early: If you are struggling to pay your housing costs, talk to an expert adviser as soon as possible who can take you through your options and advise on your next steps. Visit www.shelter. org.uk/advice or call Shelter’s free helpline on 0808 800 4444. 2. Focus on housing costs first: Make sure paying your mortgage or rent is the priority. The most important thing is to keep your home, even if you are getting demands from credit card and payday loan companies. 3. Act now on mortgage arrears: Contact your lender as soon as possible if you are behind on the mortgage. They have to try to help you. 4. Get help with rent arrears: Miss two rent payments and you could be at risk of eviction. See if you can claim housing benefit to help pay the rent. 5. Respond to letters and phone calls. It’s natural to want to keep your head down and hope it’ll sort itself out but it’s important to read everything your mortgage lender, landlord or letting agent sends to you. Keep records of every letter and phone call.

POLICE MATTERS, Anti-Social behaviour: - PC I Wardle did not attend the meeting. PC I Wardle had previously asked the Parish Council to consider purchasing four Anti-Social Behaviour signs, to be placed around the Londis, Mayflower Close and Main Street at a cost of £32.00 exc. VAT. Several members raised concerns about vehicles being parked on grass verges, pavements and restricted parking areas at several locations throughout the village and no parking enforcement action being taken. Mr T Lockley stated that in relation to the damaged grass verges, this was generally the responsibility of Leicestershire County Council unless there was a danger to members of the public. Other matters of illegal or obstructive parking should be reported to the police; the registration number of the vehicle should be taken and the police would then send the owners a warning letter. Mr T Lockley and Mrs M Bowler had attended Hinckley & Bosworth Rural Conference earlier today and Mrs M Bowler informed the members that Assistant Chief Constable (Operations) P Kay was a speaker at the conference. He had informed the conference that it was no longer viable to put a police officer in every village as people were now more at risk at home via cybercrime, domestic abuse and slavery etc. Outstanding eroded “Give Way” white lines at several locations and at junctions throughout the village:- The clerk reminded the parish councillors to report these issues to the County Council as a higher priority would be given to areas where the most complaints had been received. The Carol Service had been held on for 27th November @7.30pm on Saw Pitts Green and had been very well attended. Euroshel bus shelter, Chitterman Way: - The clerk stated that she had asked Richards Environmental to completely remove the lower clear panels over the summer, as they had been vandalised and left in a dangerous

condition. Wooden Littlethorpe bus shelter, Chitterman Way: PC I Wardle had asked the Parish Council to consider removing the seat from the shelter to prevent youths from congregating there. It was agreed that the seat should not be removed. The Community Partnership Library Service: - Mrs M Bowler stated that the Trust was hoping to create more of a community hub and were holding events at the Library to raise its profile with members of the public. Government Funding: Mr D Sprason stated that in the Deputy Leader’s Autumn Statement it was revealed that there would be a further 7% decrease in the Local Authority budget for the next financial year. The Local Authority had already reduced its budget by 50% over the previous 5 years and faced reductions of 38% over the next 5 years. There would be a public consultation on the future shape of libraries, museums and adult learning, to save more than £1.8 million. Existing Business Rates would have to be kept at the same level but the County Council could increase the rate of 3.9% charge for new businesses. The future would include some very tough decisions, particularly on service reductions and other savings required to balance the budget. The ability to add 2% each year to the Council Tax in the form of a Social Care precept would also be given consideration by Leics County Council. SHIRE Grants – Community Grants: - Grants of up to £2,500 were available for projects to establish or enhance community services and activities made a difference to local people and communities in Leicestershire • Encouraging young people to achieve their potential • Getting active in the community • Supporting older people • Supporting vulnerable people in the community Taylor Wimpey housing development on land south of Jacqueline Road: Mrs J Williams stated that Mercenfeld School had objected to the application as the school was now full and

Reminder to anyone who received a book from me for Xmas. They’re due back at the library today.

11 £26 million saving planned next year

County Council faces toughest year of savings LEICESTERSHIRE County Council must save £26 million next year – the highest annual saving it has ever had to make.

wouldn’t be able to increase school numbers without additional building works which there wasn’t any space for. The Parish Council in conjunction with Groby Parish Council had employed the services of Mr S Clarke, Highways Consultant. First Stage (£1250 + VAT) • Consideration of Planning Application and Transport Assessment • Undertaking site visit of proposed access and surrounding network • Providing objective advice (via email and telephone call) about whether there are legitimate grounds to recommend refusal on highway grounds. If there is I start 2nd Stage Second Stage (£1050 + VAT if Meeting Required with Parish Council to present report or £800 + VAT if we can liaise without Meeting) • Preparing report for submission to LPA Please note that the above only includes assessing the merits of the applicant’s supporting evidence with the planning application and not a revised Transport Assessment if it is deemed that one is required. Jelson development – Section 106 monies: Mr M Lay was pleased to report that there were 41 social housing dwellings for the provision of housing for local residents only. However he was concerned about the Government’s new Housing Bill and the future implications of the Tenants’ Right to Buy Scheme for the future social housing stock.

The council warned that the public will see the impact on services, as it has to save £110 million over the course of this Parliament – following £103 million of cuts during the last one. Key headlines for the next four years include: • Total savings of £78 million will be required, including £26 million from April. The council has only identified £59 million, leaving £19 million still to be found. Identified savings include proposed cuts to bus subsidies, waste sites and public health work • Efficiency savings of £27 million, including reductions in management and administration (£3 million) and better commissioning and procurement (£9 million) • Growth of £41.3 million to meet rising demand, including adult social care (£23 million), children’s social care (£8 million) and waste (£2.4 million) • Council Tax rises of 3.99 per cent per year, including a two per cent precept to support adult social care, which was introduced by the Government. The two per cent will not cover the council’s full costs for adult social care • An estimated 500 full-time equivalent posts will go – 900 have gone over the last five years Deputy council leader, Councillor Byron Rhodes said: “This is the most challenging budget that the council has faced for a generation. We were already the lowest funded county council – but now the funding formula is shifting even more money away from counties to cities and London boroughs, which hits us even harder. We’ll have to take tough decisions such as cuts to early help and public health services and rural bus subsidies, if we are to deliver the savings that we need – and next year will be very tough indeed.” The financial situation means that the council cannot afford to develop a mining museum at Snibston. It will explore ways of providing some public access to the scheduled ancient monument and museum collections stored on site and linking them with the country park. People can have their say on the proposals at www.leicestershire.gov.uk/ budget from January 12 till midnight on January 25. The council’s cabinet will consider the consultation results when it finalises the budget proposals on February 5, before the full council takes a final decision on February 17.

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Roll up, Roll up! At the Century Theatre, Coalville

Disney Delights & Musical Magic ! th

Saturday 5 March 2016 Starring the Dancers of Expressions Dance with fabulous singer Natalie Nightingale Programme includes a ‘Frozen’ sing-along!

Curtain up: 6.30pm Adults £8, Children (under 15) £5 Tickets: Century Theatre, Snibston Website or Box Office, or call: 01530 278 444 The timeless magic of toe-tapping music gorgeous songs, and fabulous dancing

I bet the worst part about being a birthday cake is when you’re set on fire, and then eaten by the hero that saved you.

Coming up in the next 6 months Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in the Herald HAPPY NEW YEAR to all the readers of the Herald. I am not sure at what point you stop wishing people a happy new year, but it does feel polite to be doing so and a number of people I have not seen this year continue to offer the greeting so I will also. Anyway what’s wrong with wishing people all the best for the coming year, maybe as we approach June and July it might seem odd but not throughout January. As we enter the new year I thought I would kick off by looking ahead to what is coming down the line in the next six months from the world of your Borough Councillor with some key things worth mentioning which I believe are important. Sometime in the next month or month and a half, the planning application for the proposed 140 house development in Field Head is likely to be heard. As readers will know this application concerns me greatly because I think it will have a detrimental impact on our community and those who live in it. It can feel that we are swimming against the tide, indeed we are, as the present Government does all it can to encourage housing development in the open countryside, maximising the return for developers and changing the landscape forever. Recent national planning advice from the Government seems to open the floodgates even more for developers, and protections once offered by meeting all your targets (i.e.finding all the land required for projected housing numbers) counts for less and less. This despite developers seemingly playing the Government for fools and sitting on over 600,000 plots of land with permissions granted while seeking more and more, claiming the planning process is slowing things down. I think most people want the Borough Council to be able to do its job in the best interests of the residents of this Borough, free from a level of political interference which has increased significantly and is beyond anything I have previously witnessed. We will see what transpires but when this application is determined it would be good for those who have objected to be witness at the planning meeting to observe and hopefully see democracy in action, let’s hope. On the subject of hope, we are also expecting sometime in the next few months to get a verdict on the planning appeal for the

proposed wind turbine between Markfield and Stanton. This appeal should be straightforward, as should a similar application appeal at Bagworth (refused to due to the level of objections), if the Government’s planning inspector sticks to existing policy on these applications. Such is my lack of confidence in these matters that I will not rest easily until this is dead and buried as it deserves to be. The recent announcements by the Government on funding for these onshore wind turbines means that future proposals are likely to be uneconomic. However, applications still pending will still qualify for a generous subsidy. In removing the funding for onshore wind the Government also removed it from domestic solar installations which has been an area of real positive growth. Domestic solar has come on leaps and bounds and is making a significant contribution to the energy supply in the UK. It is therefore a shame that something that benefits individual householders as opposed to corporations or hedge funds and is way less intrusive than wind turbines or solar farms is being axed at the very time when it has been so successful and would likely carry on being so. As we move into the spring of this year we will have the usual cycle of budget setting by public authorities. This is not normally so significant but this year it may turn out to be more so. Why? You may ask. Well, public authorities are really beginning to struggle with the level of cuts imposed on them and are genuinely finding it difficult to maintain front line services. This has led to a renewed debate about going to the public and asking them via a referendum if they are willing to pay more in local taxes to keep things going. Hinckley and Bosworth has already carried out an initial consultation (not a referendum which would need to held) which has shown a high level of support for increasing (modestly in cash terms) the Council Tax to maintain recycling services and I will write about this more next month. The police and fire service are also thinking about doing this. Both have looked hard at how they can make more efficiencies over those already made in the last number of years. In truth they are scraping the bottom of the barrel and so to carry on they will have to radically change the services they provide to local people. This will mean more examples of the type heard last year, when the

Leics Police reportedly only fully investigated burglaries at even numbers on certain streets to see if they could save money. The County Council is possibly facing the biggest budgetary challenges and one can only hope they show some leadership in addressing these challenges. The County Council has responsibility for adult social care which is a critical area and needs a proper funding settlement otherwise the consequences will be dire for us all, if they are not already. Finally, moving into May we will see another set of elections this time for the Police and Crime Commissioners. Four years ago these elections saw the first Police and Crime Commissioner elected for Leicestershire and Rutland in Sir Clive Loader, although only 16% of electors across the County

Matthew Lay and City bothered to vote. Sir Clive Loader is not seeking re-election, so whatever the outcome of the elections in May we will see a new Commissioner and this time one who will likely also have control of the County’s fire and rescue service. This will place more power into the hands of this officeholder and so it is critical that more people get engaged this time round. Yes the notion of electing directly someone to take responsibility for these service is new but this is what democracy is about and it’s what people died to secure.

Expressions Dance & Natalie Nightingale Presents: Disney Delights and Musical Magic

Unique dual fundraiser on 5th March - for Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary and LRI JOIN US at the Century Theatre on Saturday 5th March for an unforgettable evening of music and dance, laughter, thrills and a touch of romance. You will be well and truly entertained with all your favourite Walt Disney songs and dances, plus hits from popular West End shows. Book now! Curtain up is at 6.30pm (*please be seated for 6.20pm). Up to sixty fabulously talented dancers from Expressions Dance & Theatre Arts Academy of Ashby Road, Coalville will perform routines of tap, ballet, musical theatre and street-dance, with some acrobatics thrown in! All this alongside the beautiful singing accompaniment of the gorgeous Natalie Nightingale. And for fans of the film ‘Frozen’, there will also be a sing-along led by Natalie, with the audience invited to join in with the most popular songs! This unique concert has been organised to raise funds for Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary in Coalville which, in 2016, is celebrating its 30th year of rescuing, caring for, and re-homing animals in the areas of Hinckley and North-West Leicestershire, with all profits from the show going to the charity. There will also be an exciting Disney-themed raffle at the interval, raising money for the Leicester Royal Infirmary children’s Cystic Fibrosis Ward.

“Thank you for unsubscribing from our e-mail mailing list. Please allow 2-3 years for us to process your request.”

14 New Year, New Writer?

Make writing easier and more fun by joining a writing group IT’S BEEN said that everyone has a book in them, and what better time than the start of a new year to start writing it? A few weeks in, many determined new writers will have lost their focus. Are you one of them? The thing is, writing is hard work. It looks easy - all you do is sit at a keyboard and type stuff, right? but it can be the hardest thing in the world. You aren’t just putting words on a page. You’re creating characters and events and Are you in control of your money... or do your finances control you? even entire worlds, then trying to Can you save up to pay for the things you explain them to need... or do you pay for them all ‘later’ your readers. with interest? And does anyone Come on the CAP money course for help actually care? How with building a budget and saving for the do you know you’re Contact details: future. It is suitable for anyone and on the right track everyone whatever their financial situation – Steph Beeston-Clarke when you only good or bad – and is completely Lead Money have CAP the cat for anCoach confidential. audience? stephbc@hotmail.co.uk There will bemore a newdetail courseifstarting asked.”Monday You need support. 01530 243606 25th January 2016 so book now to ensure The most important aspect of You need a social commitment toget a place. you 07572 852684 any keep you focused and accountable. Contact Steph to writing find out group, however, is to more. Comeencourage on your own,writers to experiment Family and friends aren’t enough with a friendand or inhave a group. fun. Not every work - unless they also write, they don’t https://capuk.org/ i-wantneeds to be a flawless poem or know what you’re going through. help/cap-money-course/ sensational short story. They’ll praise anything you write, course “Every other meeting, we have and won’t comment if you don’t a theme - a title, a subject, even a write at all. This is why you need to photograph, to inspire our writers,” join a writing group. Tony explains. “But if a topic doesn’t “New writers need interest them, they can always write encouragement and support, something else. The other meetings but they don’t always have are ‘manuscript nights’, where the confidence to submit their will include worship songs, silence, people can bring along anything ownEach workevening for comment in a simple reflective prayer, readings and to an on. hour. theylast areup working This can formal group setting,”and says responses Tony poetry, plays, short stories All are welcome. Come along andinclude enjoy the peace. Gutteridge, chair of the Grace or even excerpts from 15th January 19th February 18th March 15thnovels.” April Dieu writing group. “We have a Several current number of regular writers 20th May 17thwho June 15th July former and 19th August members of the Grace Dieu Writers are always willing to read at our 16th September 21st October 18th November Circle have become published meetings, but we are happy for N o “Still Friday” in December authors. Even if you aren’t quite newcomers not to read. If they wish 8.00 at St. Michael & All Angels’ Church ready for that yet, most authors will to share theirFridays work, we arepm happy be happy to share their experiences to provide positive feedback and with you. the group can critique their work in

“Still Friday” 2016

Do You Have What It Takes To Become A Successful Writer? Why Not Join A Writing Group And Find Out ...

Writing can be a lonely, difficult occupation. But it doesn’t have to be. Dust off that keyboard, set down a few words, and join a writing group. Inspiration and conversation await! The Grace Dieu Writers Circle meets in Coalville on the second and fourth Thursday of every month. Contact Tony Gutteridge on 01455 273591 for further details, or visit their website at www. gracedieuwriterscircle.co.uk. New members are always welcome and no experience is required.

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

a Churches Together

in Markfield

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

initiative

An opportunity to relax, find peace and 'reflect' on our place in the world. With creative suggestions for reading, thinking and exploring prayer.

Congregational Church Hall - 6-7pm Thursdays 28th January, 25th February, 28th April, 26th May, 23rd June Come for as long as you wish and leave when you want. Refreshments available. All are welcome. Further information: Rosemary (242844)

The first thing a television viewer realises when watching a golf tournament is how the sport tends to make one inclined to whisper and avoid sudden movements, such as walking to the regrigerator during a possible birdie putt.

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

Come on the CAP money course for help with building a budget and saving for the future. It is suitable for anyone and everyone whatever their financial situation – good or bad – and is completely confidential. There will be a new course starting Monday 25th January 2016 so book now to ensure you get a place. Contact Steph to find out more. Come on your own, with a friend or in a group.

I still have a landline. Or as I like to call it, Mobile Phone Finder.

Cheaper power proposed

CHEAPER power bills could be on offer if the county and city councils set up an energy supply service. The two councils are proposing to work with an existing energy supplier, to offer cheaper tariffs to residents and businesses throughout Leicestershire. Known as a “white label” service, the idea has operated successfully in other areas including Cheshire East, Peterborough and Southend. The councils would encourage customers to shift to the energy company, to gain cheaper tariffs. In return, the company would pay the councils a fee for every customer who switched. The councils would operate the service as ‘not-for-profit’ and any funds gained would be reinvested into energy efficiency measures or used to discount the price paid for energy by residents and businesses. There would be a strong emphasis on customer service and helping vulnerable customers, plus an option for a green tariff for consumers I’m interested in exploring this idea because it’s a win-win –cheaper energy for the public and money to invest in energy efficiency, at a time of tight budgets. We know that this idea has worked successfully in other areas, so it makes sense for the county and city councils to try it here. Person:Deputy council leader, Councillor Byron Rhodes Councillor Adam Clarke, Leicester’s assistant city mayor for energy and sustainability, said: “I have visited several other local authorities in England to explore ideas that might help to reduce fuel poverty and also support our carbon reduction objectives. “Working alongside the county on initiatives like this helps to get the best deal for all concerned.” A similar scheme in Cheshire East, known as Fairerpower, had 2,500 customers after five months. If the county and city councils give the go-ahead, they will launch a procurement exercise to select an energy supplier and the scheme could be launched in the spring.

These mousetraps would probably work a lot better if I didn’t like cheese so much..

64% of people living with dementia feel isolated following a diagnosis 50% OF PEOPLE in the East Midlands not convinced people with dementia still benefit much from seeing loved ones they no longer recognise

After Christmas, people with dementia and their carers may face long, dark days ahead until they next spend time socialising or getting out of the house. As the condition progresses, many people with dementia may find it difficult to recognise faces of friends and family members, but will still hold an ‘emotional memory’ which means they continue to feel happy long after a visit or experience that they may have forgotten. Spending time with loved ones is important because it can stimulate feelings of familiarity, happiness, comfort and security. Staying connectedand taking part in activities helps a person with dementia feel less isolated. The survey of people affected by dementia found that over half (54%) of people with the condition were no longer taking part in any or hardly any social activities. Almost half (48%) said that what would help people with dementia most to stay connected is seeing family and friends more often, and having someone to help them take part in activities and hobbies (51%). 42% of people in the East Midlands did say that being unable to recognise close friends and family would make them feel most isolated, ahead of a divorce or relationship breakdown (16%). Positively, over two thirds (72%) of people surveyed say they would still visit someone with dementia who no longer recognised them, either just as much or even more often than they do now. Despite these good intentions, the lack of awareness of how important emotional memory is may mean that in their busy lives, people don’t always follow up on their intentions and over half of those living with dementia are left feeling isolated. Angie Newing, Operations Director at Alzheimer’s Society said: “After spending time with friends and family over the festive period, New Year can be a bleak and lonely time for people with dementia and their carers. It’s so important for people with dementia to feel connected throughout the year. Spending time with loved ones and taking part in meaningful activities can have a powerful and positive impact, even if they don’t remember the event itself. We’re urging people to get in touch to find out how we can help you stay connected through our local support services across the East Midlands.” Dementia has a huge impact on people with the condition and their friends and family. It can strip you of your connection to the people you love. As the UK’s leading dementia support and research charity, Alzheimer’s Society provides information, advice and practical and emotional support. The charity runs nearly 3,000 local services including befriending services, dementia cafes, Singing for the Brain and dementia support workers. These services enable people affected by dementia to stay connected and feel part of their community. Visit alzheimers.org.uk/ localinfo for more information.

Mobile Support Service heads to Leicestershire VISTA, the local sight loss charity, has a Mobile Support Service for older people at risk of developing sight loss in Leicestershire. The service, in partnership with Leicestershire County Council, is touring the county in a specially designed mobile unit, providing information, support and advice. During February it will visit a variety of locations across Leicestershire (a full list can be found below). 1.8 million people are living with significant sight loss in the UK, and evidence suggests that over 50 per cent of sight loss is due to preventable or treatable causes. Vista’s Mobile Support Service aims to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of sight loss, the importance of early diagnosis and the links between lifestyle and sight loss. Manned by friendly staff, the vehicle features an open plan welcome area, leaflet display and a seating area for individual consultation and support. During their time on board, visitors can: • Learn how a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of sight loss, the importance of regular sight tests and spotting conditions early • Find out more about the support and services available through Vista • Discover equipment and technologies that can support people with sight loss. The programme also supports older people already experiencing sight loss, enabling them to access dedicated information, advice and support in their local communities. Paul Bott, Vista’s Chief Executive, said: “This exciting project enables us to increase awareness of avoidable sight loss, in particular amongst older people. We believe that advice and support should be available in even the most rural communities, so we’ve taken our services on the road.” A full list of dates, locations and times is available on our website at www.vistablind.org.uk/mobilesupport

Afternoon tea, anyone? DO YOU take afternoon tea? Ever wondered where it started? The custom seems to date back to the mid-19th century, and the seventh Duchess of Bedford, Anna Russell. The Duchess got hungry at about 4pm each day, and complained that she had “that sinking feeling”. As it was still four hours until dinner (at 8pm), she began to have sandwiches or a small cake with some tea. Her friends thought this was marvellous, and the idea spread quickly through (hungry) upper class circles. Soon, it seems, everyone in England was looking forward to Afternoon Tea, and a great British tradition was born. Though during the last century the sandwiches and cake gave way to biscuits, still we reached for the teapot each afternoon. Not so much any more, it seems. In the last five years, sales of tea have dropped by nearly a quarter, and sales of biscuits have sunk by a tenth. Nowadays we reach for bottled water and fruits, nuts or even cheese. The research was done by retail analysts Mintel.

Community services consultation

Future of community services considered PEOPLE will have a chance to have their say on the future shape of libraries, museums and adult learning, to save more than £1.8 million. Leicestershire County Council’s ruling cabinet is set to launch a consultation on the future shape of its communities and wellbeing service. It currently spends £5.7 million per year. Subject to approval, the consultation will start in the New Year and run for three months with the findings reported back to cabinet at a later date. “We know the services our communities and wellbeing team provide are valuable to our communities, so we’re looking at how these services will be delivered in the future,” said Councillor Richard Blunt, cabinet member for libraries and museums. “With continued pressure on our finances, we need to look at providing services a different way. The reality is we will be focusing more on supporting volunteer groups and less on providing directly funded services.” The report to cabinet outlines the key priorities for the service’s strategy, which include closer partnership working, building skills, supporting communities to access services online and increasing access to local services through the use of new technology.

It’s important to remember that exercise doesn’t work unless you tell a bunch of people about it.

Markfield Surgery Letter Thank You! and Patient Participation Group (PPG) news

WE RECENTLY delivered a lorry load of supplies to assist the victims of flooding in the north of England, and we would like to thank everyone who was kind enough to donate to our appeal.

MARKFIELD SURGERY and the Patient Participation Group would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year.

As so often at this time of year, people think about their lifestyle and may make a resolution to do something to improve their health, such as cutting down on drinking alcohol or taking more exercise. As we all know, this is not always easy to achieve. The PPG have been thinking about how we could contribute to developing healthier activities for patients at the surgery as well as anyone in the village who might want to join in. To this end we would like to set up a ‘Walking for Health’ group which would organise walks lasting about an hour on a regular basis. Walking is simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier. It’s underrated as a form of exercise, but walking is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels who want to be more active. Regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, stroke and some cancers ( see the NHS ‘Choices’ website www.nhs.uk/Livewell/gettingstarted-guides/Pages/getting-started-walking.aspx for more information). Unfortunately we do not have enough walk leaders to make this viable at present and we are appealing for anyone who might be interested to get in touch with our ‘Walking for Health’ liaison, Rosie Woodland, who can give you more information on this important initiative. You can contact her on 01530 244497. Hopefully we will be able to get this off the ground later in the year.

People came out in the dark and wet to deliver their donations in Bagworth, and from surrounding villages too. The response was amazing, and we managed to fill an articulated lorry full. I, on behalf of our team, would personally like to thank our locals. For more information about our trip, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Leicestershires-northern-flood-supportpage-186982928320299

Helen Crouch Bagworth

Police Careers Event on 6th Feb

LEICESTERSHIRE Police are planning a careers afternoon on 6th February from 12pm to 3pm at the Markfield Community Centre. At the event, it is hoped to have representatives of the fire service, ambulance service and the army present to discuss careers advice, along with the YOS and the endeavour team from the council. The Police will also offer a security service for the community for their bicycles where they will mark them up free of charge and hand out freebies once their bikes have been secured. Their serial numbers and their details will be logged on our system which will help locate the bike if anyone is unfortunate enough to lose their bike or have it taken.

Time waits for no man, time is obviously a woman.

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Umm Adele, have you tried texting?

News from MARKFIELD COMMUNITY LIBRARY Happy New Year… …a new year and a new logo! Thanks to everyone who took part in our new Logo Competition. We had lots of entries and it was a tough decision for our judges to decide which was the best one… but a winner was chosen and that is Georgina Hargreaves. Her design was based on a scroll and we will be unveiling the new logo over the next month or so. So well done Georgina, your logo will appear on all our library material as well as in the Library itself, and you have also won a £15 book token!

Christmas in the library WE HAD a wonderful festive display of the poem The Night Before Christmas. It was based around a fireplace with Santa coming down the chimney with Christmas stockings hanging and mince pies and carrots ready for Santa and the Reindeer. This was also displayed as part of the Methodist Church Christmas Tree festival. We also had an advent calendar based on books chosen by members of the Library, and what an eclectic mix it was - we had everything from Little Women to War Horse!

Find Santa Competition THE WINNER of our Find Santa Competition was Emily Headley who came into the library with her mother and sister to claim her prize and said the knitted Santa will stand by the tree in their hall. Santa was knitted by one of our library volunteers Gabriella, who handed the prize to Emily who said she was really pleased with him. The competition raised £28.50 towards our funds so thank you to everyone who took part and a big thank you to Gabriella for knitting him.

Reading and rhymes OUR READING and rhymes sessions are now in full swing and held every Friday morning between 9.15 and 9.45. These are fun, informal and

friendly sessions where babies and children are read stories by one of our enthusiastic readers. One reader even uses puppets to bring the stories alive! There’s no need to book just bring your children along and enjoy our free sessions. Everyone is welcome.

Art Class OUR NEW drop in Art Class is now held every Tuesday evening between 6.00pm and 7.30pm. Whether you are a beginner with no experience of how to draw or paint or whether you already enjoy art and want to brush up your skills, you are very welcome to come along where our experienced art teacher will help and advise you. The sessions are open to all abilities over the age of 16. There’s no need to book, just come along. The fee for each session is £5 which will include all your materials as well as expert advice.

Book Clubs Our evening Book Club was held in December when we celebrated the Book Club’s 2nd anniversary as well as Christmas. We had drinks and nibbles and discussed two books this time. The first was the Booker Prize winner, Marlon James and The Brief History of Seven Killings and the second was Paula Hawkins’ The Girl on the Train. We had mixed reviews for both of them with some lively debate. We also chose our favourite book of the year which we’d read and it was the classic novel by Harper Lee - To Kill a Mockingbird. A great book, well worth reading. Our Evening Book Club is well attended but we would very much welcome new members for our newly formed Afternoon Book Club which meets every first Monday in the month at the library at 2.00pm. We are reading The Taxidermist’s Daughter by Kate Mosse for our February meeting on February 1st, so do join us if you can. Each session is £2 which includes coffee or tea. For more details, please email markfieldbookclub@gmail.com

lots of children calling into the library to help us make and draw our Winter Wonderland Wall. We had a fabulous balloon artist who kept the children entertained as well as games and crafts. We hope to have more activity days during the year, particularly during school holidays.

National Libraries Day WE HOPE to participate in the Harry Potter themed National Libraries Day on Saturday February 6th when we plan to extend the library opening times and showcase what the library has to offer. We also hope to take part in the Harry Potter Book Night - A Night of Spells - on Thursday February 4th when we hope that young wizards, witches and Muggles will be treated to an evening of games, activities, reading and quizzes based on the unparalleled magic of Harry Potter, created by JK Rowling. For more information please email markfieldcommunitylibraryevents@ mail.com In the meantime you can take part in the Family Treasure Hunt, and celebrate what libraries offer through our online resources. The treasure hunt will be launched on Saturday 30th January with a closing date of Saturday 13th February. The treasure hunt can be done at home on your own computer or you can come into the library from Monday February 1st and use our computers, free of charge, to complete your treasure hunt. Once completed hand it into the library where it will be sent off to enter into a prize draw to win a copy of the new Illustrated Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Jo Jingles Is Coming To Markfield Community Library JO JINGLES is a nationwide organisation which run fun music and movement classes for babies and children from 3 months old to 7 years. These classes promote active music making using props, visuals and musical instruments, and are carefully structured and work in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage. They introduce children to music and help develop communication skills as well as being creative, imaginative and help build children’s confidence. Children get to have “hands-on” experience with at least two percussion instruments each week, such as Drums, Tambourines and Bells The classes are run in a friendly and informal manner so you can be safe in the knowledge that your child, and maybe you too will learn about music in a stimulating and secure environment. Jo Jingles is holding two 30 minute taster sessions on Monday February 8th. 10.15am will be for babies up to around 18 months old and then from 11.15am for 18 months plus up to 5 years. For more information about any of our activities or events please call into the library or email markfieldcommunitylibraryevents@mail.com

Childrens’ Activity Day WE HELD a children’s activity day during the week between Christmas and New Year when we had

Still waiting for my wife to tell me what my 2016 resolution is going to be.

19 Care charge considered

Rising budget pressures could lead to care charge COUNTY COUNCILLORS are about to decide whether to charge some people for arranging their social care, due to rising budget pressures.

Cabinet approval for the proposal would signal an annual fee of just over £200 being introduced to around 700 ‘selffunders’ in Leicestershire who have more than £23,250 in savings, which doesn’t include the value of their home. The proposal doesn’t affect people in residential care or those who have savings below the threshold. Councillor Dave Houseman, county council cabinet member for adult social care, said: “We know from responses to a consultation that the charge being considered is unpopular, however, with a 40 per cent rise in the county’s older population and falling Government grant, we have to do something. “We already know that a lot of people in need of support successfully organise their social care so one option for the people affected by the proposed charge is to make their own arrangements and we’ll provide a list of alternative providers. “If they do decide to pay the fee, we’ll ensure they receive the right help and advice on finding the social care suitable to their specific needs.” The report to Cabinet will outline that the 2014 Care Act allows local authorities to introduce a charge to cover the cost of making care arrangements, but councils can’t make a profit. The charge would recoup around £100,000 per year, says the report. Leicestershire is proposing to charge £236 to negotiate and manage social care contracts with providers and to cover administration costs. Councils can’t charge for assessing finances, needs and social care planning. Many councils already charge for arranging social care for self-funders, charges range from £100 in Nottinghamshire, £250 in Milton Keynes, £280 in York and £2,600 in Richmond-on-Thames. If approved, the charge would be introduced in April this year.

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New food bank serving Markfield, Ratby & Groby THERE IS now a Food Bank offering assistance with emergency food for local residents in crisis.

It operates from the Village Hall in Groby on Friday mornings between 10am and 12 noon, on a weekly basis. There is a bus stop directly outside the hall which services Arriva buses 26,28,29 and 29a and there is ample parking at the hall. In exceptional circumstances, deliveries can be arranged to homes in the Markfield, Groby and Ratby areas. All food bank users will need to be referred by an agency such as their local GP, Social Services, Police, Hinckley & Boworth Housing, local faith groups and Parish Councils. Agencies will need to provide a letter for each recipient outlining their needs, the number of dependents in the household, and their address. The letter will be presented at the food bank in exchange for food to last up to one week. Recipients will also need to present proof of their identity. Recipients will be able to receive up to a maximum of three food donations in any one period to overcome their immediate crisis. For further details, contact Tim Adkin on 07751 732434.

Food bank organiser Tim Adkin (right) with Markfield volunteer Peter Thorpe outside Groby Village Hall (Photo. Groby Village Hall Vice Chairman Ted Hollick.)

Leap Year – 29th February 2016 brings us a Leap Year. We need to add this extra day every four years in order to keep our calendar in alignment with the Earth’s revolutions around the Sun. The problem is very simple: our calendar has 365 days, but it actually takes 365.242199 days (a tropical year) to circle once around the Sun. That means we are ‘out’ by nearly six hours a year. Four times six hours is 24 hours - hence an extra day every four years. Adding the extra day in February goes back to Julius Caesar in 45 BC. In his Julian Calendar, February was the last month of the year, and 24th February was Leap Year Day.

All the lonely old people … Newbold Verdon Jazz Club A SILENT EPIDEMIC is sweeping our land – the loneliness of old people trapped at home. With many families living at a distance from each other, and technology removing the need for face-to-face encounters (to collect pensions, etc) there are hundreds of thousands of older people who can get through an entire week hardly speaking to a soul.

Is there anything that we might do to help some of the lonely old people who live near your church? There is a scheme in the Highlands where a number of volunteers agree to each ring several older people each morning, just to make contact. ‘Morning Call’ has been praised by the medical authorities as well as the older folk, who call it a lifeline. As one lady explained: “Knowing that I would be receiving a phone call from a Morning Call volunteer gave me a reason to get out of bed … the calls have become a much looked-forward to event.” So here is an idea: would there be any volunteers in your church who would agree to each make one or two phone calls a day, to local elderly people who would otherwise go all day without speaking to anyone? The phone call would be just to wish them good morning, and to make sure they are all right. If so, perhaps we could start, in a very small way, some sort of scheme to help our lonely local old folk. If such a scheme interests you, please contact your minister….

THE NEW YEAR saw a great start to the jazz scene at Newbold Verdon Jazz Club with a number of new faces in the audience. We hope you all enjoyed the evening and look forward to seeing you again in the months to come. The Savannah Jazz Band made a welcome return to the club and gave us a great evening of trad jazz. The band, led by John Meehan on drums never fails to give us a good evening of music and vocals and extra fun from Roger Myerscough (right), who in between playing the clarinet, always raises a laugh with his tales from Yorkshire. The band also had an extra instrument this year, a piano, ably played by trombonist, Brian Ellis. Bill Smith on cornet, Tony Pollitt on bass and Chris Marney on banjo made up the rest of the band who altogether created a great sound. We look forward to seeing them all again at the start of 2017. The next concert is on Friday 5th February, 8.00pm at Newbold Verdon Social Club, when New Orleans Heat will be playing. Do come along and join us. More details from Kelvin on 01455 822824 or Pauline on 0116 2865496.

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I’d probably be more of a go getter if I knew what I was going to get.

Support LOROS and PROSTaid

Don’t Miss The 12th Annual Jazzbash!

THE 12TH ANNUAL Jazzbash is due to take place at The Musician, Leicester on Sunday 24th January 2016 from 12noon ‘til 10pm. Featuring 8 great bands, including The Welland Valley Stompers, The Jazz Crew, The Saratoga Jazz Ensemble, Steve Fearn and Friends, The Spa Strummers, King Brasstards, Jazz Salon Rouge and T H Q. The event is in aid of LOROS and PROSTaid. Admission is £15 all day, £8 after 6pm. Book your tickets online at www.themusicianpub.co.uk for a £3 saving. There will be hot and cold refreshments and a raffle. Join us for this marathon of jazz in memory of Dave Rae. LOROS is a charity whose aim is to enhance the quality of life of adult patients with cancer, progressive neurological conditions and end-stage organ failure for whom curative treatment is no longer possible. Patients are treated at the Hospice and in the community based upon clinical need, regardless of background and the ability to pay. Over 2,500 patients access our services each year. LOROS services include: • An In-patient unit of 31 beds • A Palliative Day Therapy Service • A Counselling Service for patients and their families • Lymphoedema Clinics • Medical Outpatients Clinics • Complementary Therapy Clinics • A Community Nurse Specialist Team • Family Support Services • Chaplaincy All of these services are provided free to patients and their families at a cost of £7.5 million each year. A grant from the NHS of approx one third is received, which leaves £4.5 million annually for LOROS to raise. The Charity relies on the support of the local community and businesses in order to raise this vital £4.5 million of funds.

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

Children too trusting of online world THE NUMBER of children who believe everything they find on Google and social media sites has doubled, according to a recent Ofcom study. Eight-to-15 year olds may be ‘digital natives’ (children who have grown up with the internet) but they often lack the ‘online nous’ needed when deciding if what they see is true or impartial, Ofcom says. Hence, almost a fifth of 12 to 15 year olds believe that all information returned by a search engine such as Google or Bing must be true, and only a third of them were able to identify paidfor adverts. The study also found that children turn to YouTube for ‘true and accurate’ information about what is going on in the world. Less than half of the children were aware that advertising is the main source of income for the site, and that therefore video bloggers are often paid to favourably mention products or services.

Now that oil is so cheap, we should start drilling for black printer ink.

Remembering Galileo and how the earth revolves

Wishing all our customers, past and present, a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! Jan & Ben

GALILEO GALILEI found himself at the centre of controversy 400 years ago this month, when he was ordered by the Catholic Church on 26 Feb 1616 to abandon his opinion that the Earth and planets revolve around the sun. He was banned from holding the opinion, promoting it, or teaching it. Highly respected as a scientist, Galileo has been called the father of observational astronomy, of modern physics and of science generally. But the Church at the time feared that his championing of heliocentrism and Copernicanism cast doubt by implication on the authority of Scripture. Galileo himself argued for a non-literal interpretation of Holy Scripture to solve the “problem”. Galileo was born in 1564 near Pisa, then part of the Duchy of Florence. The first of six children of a famous lutenist, he started studying medicine but became fascinated by mathematics and became Professor of Mathematics at Pisa in 1589, then moved to a similar position at Padua in 1592. In 1609, Galileo heard about the invention of the telescope in Holland. Without having seen one, he built a superior version and made many astronomical discoveries, including mountains and valleys on the surface of the moon, sunspots, the four largest moons of the planet Jupiter and the phases of the planet Venus. In 1632, he was again condemned for heresy after his book Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems was published. Galileo was summoned to appear before the Inquisition, was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment – later reduced to permanent house arrest at his villa in Arcetri, south of Florence. He was also forced to publicly withdraw his support for Copernican theory. Galileo died in 1642. In 1758, the Church lifted the ban on most works supporting Copernican theory, and by 1835 dropped its opposition to heliocentrism altogether.

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I lost a fight with my wife today and I wasn’t even there.

Markfield dancers go on tour ... to Thornton!

Ann Duggan Band at the Stamford Arms It was way back in October 2012 that Ann Duggan was featured in a Groby Spotlight article. Although her accent is a giveaway that she is originally from Birmingham, Annie lives just up the road at Markfield.

ON THE 12th of December, Keely-Anna’s Markfield dancers went off on tour, all the way to the distant and fabled land of Thornton. They had been invited to help with the entertainment in the annual St Peter’s Christmas Concert, along with a local school choir and the professional talents of local singer Natalie Nightingale, who supports the event each year. The children performed two dances, one to the tune of ‘The Holly and the Ivy’, another from The Nutcracker. And even though the dancing space was limited, they all performed fantastically! We’re pleased to say that the event was a great success, with 130 adults and 45 children completely filling all of the available space in the church. Over £600 was taken at the door, with the charitable proceeds being split between the Friends of St. Peters Church and Redgate Animal Farm Sanctuary. Following the event, Miss Keely-Anna was asked to bring her students back next year, and also to provide dancers at another Thornton fair. With new classes opening in the new year in Bagworth, it’s great to see Keely-Anna’s local Markfield dance school expanding by popular request to the nearby villages.

She describes her music as a seamless mix adding country, folk and rock, played with a powerful combination of energy, melody and lyricism. Although an artiste most readers won’t have heard of she commands respect in the music industry. Reviewer Bob Jones wrote “I had never heard of Ann before and it was a rare treat to see a fine artist for the first time” about one of her Birmingham performances for the Blues in Britain magazine. There are few opportunities to see her band locally so the gig which has been pencilled in for the Stamford Arms on the 30 January will be worth turning out for on a winter’s night. If you missed the Spotlight article and would like to know more about Ann and her music you can still read it on GrobyOnline. Just Google groby ann duggan and it will give the link to the article and her own website.

Norman Griffiths

I think they’re called cell phones because we’re pretty much imprisoned by them now.

Estelle’s a hit with singer Jason Donovan A SLIMMING WORLD Consultant from Bagworth is feeling ready to make any (weight-loss) dream come true after meeting legendary soap actor and popstar Jason Donovan. Estelle Burton, who runs a Slimming World group at South Charnwood High School, Markfield every Monday evening, Methodist Church, Anstey every Wednesday evening and Beaumont Leys School, Beaumont Leys every Saturday Morning, was delighted to get a chance to cuddle up to the Australian heartthrob when he swapped Ramsay Street for the annual Slimming World Awards. He co-hosted the event with the organisation’s chair and founder Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE. Estelle said meeting Jason Slimming World Consultant Estelle Burton meets was a wonderful former soap star and singer Jason Donovan. way to round off a fabulous year for all her Slimming World groups, as well as a great way to get ready for another successful 12 months: “I couldn’t be prouder of all my members. They’ve lost fantastic amounts of weight throughout 2015, with many of them making their weight loss dreams come true by hitting their target weight, improving their health and more. “It’s so rewarding to see people being able to do things that they didn’t think possible before losing weight, whether that’s wearing smaller clothes, taking up new hobbies, reducing medication or being able to do more with their family and friends. Every week I feel so lucky to play even a small part in people’s achievements and I felt very honoured to represent my 3 Slimming World groups when I met Jason. Now I feel incredibly motivated and I can’t wait to support more people in Markfield, Anstey and Beaumont Leys to lead healthier, happier lives in 2016.” Jason, who found fame on Aussie soap opera Neighbours before launching a pop music and stage career, said he was thrilled to meet Estelle at the event, which was held at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre. He added: “I’ve been in the business for some time now and I like to think that I have improved with age and experience. It certainly sounds like Slimming World’s only going from strength to strength too, and as they enter their 47th year of helping people to lose weight they’re better placed than ever before to help people to lead healthier lives. “At the awards I met lots of people who’ve lost incredible amounts of weight and it has completely changed their lives – in fact, it’s saved their lives in some cases. And every single one of them told me that they couldn’t have made the changes they have to eat more healthily and become more active without the help and support of their Slimming World group and their Consultant, so people like Estelle are clearly very important.” “Lots of people will be making resolutions to lose weight and improve their health this New Year. I truly believe that joining their local Slimming World group is the best way for people to lose weight and learn new habits. Thanks to our famous Food Optimising eating plan they’ll see big results on the scales without ever having to feel hungry or deprived, and at the Markfield group they’ll discover a whole world of support and advice that’s sure to help them reach their targets. “What I love is that while our members lose weight, they also grow in confidence and happiness – we joke the only thing that gets bigger at our group is our smiles! We’ve had a lot of fun together in 2015 and I can’t wait to see what 2016 holds for the Markfield, Anstey and Beaumont Leys Slimming World groups. I’d love anyone who’s thinking about losing weight this January to join us at one of my groups. South Charnwood High School, MARKFIELD every Monday at 5.30 or 7.30pm. Methodist Church, ANSTEY every Wednesday 5.30 or 7.30pm. Beaumont Leys School, BEAUMONT LEYS every Saturday 9am.” To live happy with Slimming World in 2016 call Estelle on 07919 284924, email estelle.sw.markfield@gmail.com or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk/ slimwithestelle to find out more.

News from Cross Hills Baptist Church Serving the villages of Thornton & Bagworth plus the surrounding area “Christmas Celebration” with Marwood Brass Band, 19th December OUR SATURDAY evening Carol service was well attended as usual and everyone enjoyed the traditional Christmas story with familiar Bible readings and Carols, with Marwood Brass Band ably providing the music for us and an appearance by the new Cross Hills Nativity finger puppets. Santa visited with his helpers, Mollie the fairy and William the elf, and gave out sweets to the children and afterwards everyone enjoyed mince pies, tea and coffee. The special collection that was taken during the service raised £135 and, as Marwood Band very kindly waived their expenses, the whole amount was able to be donated to the Hinckley Homeless Project.

Christmas Family Service and Children’s presentation, 20th December THE CHILDREN and young people of our Sunday Club along with their leaders, as the Cross Hills Puppeteers, presented a performance of The Nativity accompanied by carols and other lively music. During the carol “We Three Kings of Orient Are” the latest addition to our puppet family made his first appearance, a cute baby camel! A big thank you goes to Ruth Holmes and the other Sunday Club leaders for their hard work in preparing for this service. The children of the Sunday Club were then presented with their annual Christmas prizes of Bibles, Christian books, or Bible stories.

Donations to Hinckley Homeless IN VIEW of the financial difficulties that Hinckley Homeless have been facing during the Autumn of 2015 extra support has been sent from Cross Hills this Christmas.

We were really pleased to be able to send a total amount of £321.20 made up from the collection taken at the Marwood Band Christmas Celebration, the Christmas Day offering, an individual church member’s generous donation and the amount raised from our ‘charity’ Christmas card effort. Pastor Garry Kelly had the pleasure of taking this amount to the Hinckley Homeless Project at Lawrence House and it will be used to help them to continue with their work with homeless young people and families in the area.

Cross Hills Church family Christmas party, Monday 28th December SOME 40 church members, family and friends enjoyed a lovely buffet in our hall with a quiz and traditional games such as Pass the Parcel, Musical Chairs and Statues and Musical Hats. The fun and laughter reminded many of us of Christmases past before the arrival of 24/7 TV and modern technology! The Cross Hills Church family would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year for 2016 and we would love to see you at some of our Sunday Services. The Church Service Information section in this magazine shows the times of our services.

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

Glynis Straw Treasurer – on behalf of the Cross Hills church family

My house has a panic room. It’s whatever room I’m in when I open the credit card bill.

Borough Councillors’ Report

FIRSTLY we would like to wish you and your families a very Happy, Peaceful and Healthy New Year

Chris Boothby & Ozzy O’Shea

Budget 2016 FOLLOWING the recent Borough wide consultation on whether the Council would either increase the Council Tax as a one off, followed by a 2% increase year on year or a garden waste charge, over 2,000 households replied and voted for the increase on their council tax. As this would be an increase of over 2%, HBBC will now be forced to hold a referendum ... or will Cllr Chris Boothby Cllr Ozzy O’shea they? Tel: 0116 2388301 or 07880 711222 Tel 0116 2394336 or 07808585825 As a result of some astute Email chris.boothby@hotmail.com Email ozzyoshea@hotmail.com negotiations by the new Conservative Administration with Central Government, we are very prioritise current and emerging estimated that Tenants can cut their close to producing a balanced threats such as :electricity bills by as much as half. budget in February 2016. Saliis will install the panels and • Domestic Burglary Whilst some of the Government maintain them free of charge for • Motor Vehicle Theft subsidy has been reduced to us as a the next 20 years. Work to install • Violence with Injury Local Authority, we have retained them takes approximately 4 hours. • Domestic Violence - and in some areas increased - our At the end of the 20 years, we have income at no cost to the taxpayer • Anti-Social Behaviour the option of retaining the panels Are you in control of your money... or• Criminal Damage. of Hinckley and Bosworth such or have them removed again free do your finances control you? as New Homes Bonus, Retained of charge. Chris and Ozzy are taking the lead Business Rates, Revenue Support on this issue. Ozzy has a wealth Grant, amongst others. Safety CanCommunity you save up to pay for the things you of experience on this issue as a This work was needed to be need... or do you pay for them all ‘later’ -former policeman and Chris has a THIS ISSUE remains high carried out because of the shortfall with interest? dedicated team at HBBC combating on our agenda as whilst left to us by the outgoing previous those who wish to steal, hurt or Anti-Social Behaviour Lib/Dem Administration whilst we Come on the CAP money course for help even intimidate residents who have the Borough has worked hard at retaining dedicated withacross building a budget and saving for thea perfect right to live in a safe and reduced slightly, other areas front line details: services. peaceful community. Contact

future. It is suitable for anyone and of crime have gone up such everyone whatever their financial situation – Rural Conference as car theft and burglary good or bad – and is completely HBBC are looking to from dwellings. TUESDAY 1st December Lead CAP Money Coach confidential. provide solar panels to Chris, as Executive Member for saw the first Rural Tenants to provide cheaper Community Safety, along with the stephbc@hotmail.co.uk Conference held by HBBC at There will be a new course starting Monday support of Ozzy, remains committed electricity. Market Bosworth Hall Hotel 01530 243606 25thtoJanuary 2016 so book now to ensure get these figures down for the The Council and a company since 2006. you benefit get a place. 07572 852684 of local residents and a called Saliis are in the process of Guest speakers talked on a variety Contact Steph to find outremains our zero tolerance of ASB identifying properties across the of rural issues such as tackling rural more. Come on your own, priority. Working alongside our Borough which are suitable, and so crime, portrait of the rural areas of with a friend or in a group. partners, the Police and Officers far have identified 851, but this will

Solar Panels Steph Beeston-Clarke

https://capuk.org/ i-wantprobably rise to about 1,000 by the help/cap-money-course/ time the work is completed. course This is a voluntary process and those households which are suitable are being asked to attend FAQ sessions at the Council. It is

of the Council both here and in Blaby, we have put together working groups such as the Safer Communities Strategy Board and a joint Community Safety Partnership to produce an agenda which will

the Borough, Leader programme, the role of a Rural Housing Enabler and the Parish and Community Initiative Fund, amongst many more. This conference will provide a

Each evening will include simple reflective worship songs, silence, prayer, readings and responses and last up to an hour. All are welcome. Come along and enjoy the peace. 15th January

19th February

18th March

15th April

20th May

17th June

15th July

19th August

No “Still Friday” in December

Leader Programme THIS IS a joint initiative between HBBC and North Warwickshire Borough Council to supply funding to micro businesses in the Rural Areas to promote growth and local employment. This also includes libraries under threat of closure because of the withdrawal of funding, and their ‘take-over’ by local community groups. From £4,000 to £25,000 is available with the Leader Programme, providing 40% of the cost of the project and the remainder being provided by the applicant. Once successful, the project must be up and running before the grant is paid. Details can be obtained from HBBC.

Once again, we would like to take this opportunity to thank residents for their continued support and remind you we are only a phone call away. Regards

Chris & Ozzy. Working for you.

Sick

“Still Friday” 2016

16th September 21st October

pathway to putting together a Rural Strategy to enhance the Rural Areas and have an equal balance between Urban and Rural communities. The Parish and Community Initiative Fund is still open to bids and closes on 5th Feb 2016. There is a pot of £100k and every Parish can claim up to £10,000. This year, £87,000 has been applied for but there is time yet for any constituted group to apply, providing they can match fund for projects to enhance their community. This fund was brought in by the previous Conservative Administration back in 2005 and we will now be seeking to increase the fund during the next budget to £125,000 so get bidding!

18th November

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

During a church service my young niece had to go outside, as she did not feel well. She returned a few minutes later and admitted: ‘I have been a little sick. But it doesn’t matter, there’s a box at the door marked ‘for the sick’.

Relationships Relationships are hard. It’s like a full-time job, and we should treat it like one. If your boyfriend or girlfriend wants to leave you, they should give you two weeks’ notice. There should be severance pay, and before they leave you, they should have to find you a temp.

I’m not ignoring you. I merely got distracted by absolutely everything else in the entire world.

Satellite Dishes to Boost Broadband Speeds in Most Remote Areas of Leicestershire • Homes and businesses in Leicestershire with the slowest connection speeds to benefit • Government commitment to broadband revolution will not leave any community behind HOMES AND BUSINESSES in some of the most remote areas of Leicestershire can now get a subsidised satellite broadband connection if they are currently unable to obtain an affordable broadband service of at least 2mbps. The scheme which has now been rolled out nationally forms part of the Government’s commitment to make sure every home and business in the UK can access speeds of at least 2 mbps. An estimated 300,000 properties across the UK will be able to make use of the new offer. The current rollout of superfast broadband is on track to deliver coverage to 95 per cent of the UK by 2017 but Government was determined to help those with the slowest connections by providing an immediate boost to their available speeds ahead of any future improvements planned. Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey said: “Our rollout of superfast broadband has already reached an additional 3.5 million homes and businesses who would otherwise have missed out. We are making tremendous progress, but it’s a massive engineering project and won’t happen overnight. This scheme offers immediate assistance to those homes and businesses in Leicestershire with the slowest speeds and is all part of our transformation of the UK’s digital landscape.” Users will be responsible for paying any remaining cost of installation and commissioning (if any), choosing the features of the satellite broadband service they require, and for paying the monthly subscription for the service they selected (for a minimum period of 12 months). Tom Purnell, Assistant Chief Executive of Leicestershire County Council, said: “The Superfast Leicestershire partnership with BT continues to provide access to superfast broadband to residents and businesses across the county. We expect to ensure 95% of Leicestershire premises can access superfast speeds by the end of 2017. “This satellite scheme is an option for people who struggle with the slowest speeds or are not due to be connected soon as part of our Superfast Leicestershire deployment for some time. It could significantly help ensure a minimum, reliable connection for those living and working in our most rural communities.” More information on the operation of the scheme in Leicestershire can be found on the Broadband Programme website at www. superfastleicestershire.org.uk/basic-broadband

Letter from Uncle Eustace

On the art of drinking well The Rectory St. James the Least of All My dear Nephew Darren You closed your last letter with the remark that it was time to retire to bed with a cup of cocoa. That may be all very well for the pious intensity of a theological college - although a stiff whisky was always acceptable in my day - but it is not a style to continue once in the parish. I do feel obliged to give you a few hints about what should and should not be drunk in public as a parish priest. Morning visits are to be discouraged, but if one is unavoidable, and you are invited to have a drink, then it has to be coffee. It is the only time of day when a mug is acceptable - provided, of course, that it is china. In the afternoons one changes to tea, but only from cups. Blended varieties may be all very well for Curates in their first year, but it should be Darjeeling for an incumbent. Fruit teas are for Quakers only. If an inappropriate vessel is offered, then the drink should be accepted, but left untouched. Since the visit will be discussed in the finest detail throughout the parish the moment you have left, your host will soon learn why and not make the same error a second time. It is for the same reason that if you ever want to circulate a piece of news round the parish as quickly as possible, never put it in the parish magazine, just mention it casually during one of your visits. Everyone will know by tea time. Alcoholic drinks must be carefully judged. A sherry - dry, naturally - is probably best if you are invited to lunch. In the early evening a gin and tonic would be the drink of choice. To ask for whisky would indicate that you are about to go over to Rome, and a mineral water that you have your roots in non-conformity. Beer is never drunk in someone’s house unless you suffer from some personal tragedy, such as being the diocesan youth chaplain. However an occasional beer in the pub with the bell-ringers (who will be real ale fanatics to a man) or after choir practice - which seems to be the real purpose of holding practices anyway - or as a treat for the sacristan, will show you are a man of the people. It is some years since I visited the pub. Understanding wine should be taught at every theological college as an essential part of the ministry. Develop a taste for claret, dear boy, and you will be starting your journey towards high office. And perhaps you should give that tin of cocoa to the verger.

Your loving uncle, Eustace

Hell hath no fury like a woman who didn’t realize her coupons expired.

Local Church Services Without Walls Christian Fellowship, 135 Main St Stanton Under Bardon Sunday 17th Jan. Service 10am Tuesday 19th January Singing cafe at Shepshed Library 1011am. This is a cafe for people with mental health challenges such as Dementia. Fellowship meal 6.30pm. Please call 07875 378628 for details Friday 22nd January Singing cafe Loughborough Library 10.15-11.15am, Coalville library 1.302.30pm Sunday 24th January Service 10am Tuesday 26th January Singing cafe Shepshed library 10-11am Bible study 6pm Friday 29th January Singing cafe Loughborough library 10.15-11.15am, Coalville library 1.302.30pm Sunday 31st January Cafe 4U 4pm Tuesday 2nd February Singing cafe Shepshed library 10-11am Prayer meeting 6pm Friday 5th February Singing cafe Loughborough library 10.15-11.15am, Coalville library 1.302.30pm Sunday 7th February Service 10am

Markfield Congregational Church 01530 242142

Sunday 23rd January 10.30am Morning Service

Friday 15th January 8.00 pm “Still Friday”

Sunday 30th January 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 24th January Sunday 17th January 10.30 am Churches Together in 10.30 am All Age Service Markfield Wednesday 27th January 6.00 pm Evening Prayer 10.00 am Midweek Communion and Sunday 24th January Coffee 8.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 31st January 10.30 am Open Church 10.30 am Single Communion Service 6.00 pm Evening Service at Stanton under Bardon Sunday 31st January Sunday 7th February 6.00 pm Joint Evening Service at St 10.30 am Morning Service Peter’s, Copt Oak

Sunday 6th February 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 13th February 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper There is a Sunday Club in our hall for children & young people during the Morning Service. For further details, our contact list is in the Cross Hills News section in this magazine. e.

Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield Sunday 17th January 10.30am United Churches Together Service at Methodist Church 6.00pm Evening Memorial/Thanksgiving Service Sunday 24th January 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm No Evening Service Thursday 28th January 2.00pm - 4.00pm Music Café Sunday 31st January 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm No Evening Service Sunday 7th February 10.30am Morning Communion Service 6.00pm Evening Taizé Service Thursday 11th February 2.00pm - 4.00pm Music Café Sunday 14th February 10.30am Morning Service 4.00pm Afternoon Café Service

Sunday 7th February 10.30 am Holy Communion Wednesday 10th February 7.30 pm Ash Wednesday Communion Sunday 14th February 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion Friday 19th February 8.00 pm “Still Friday” Sunday 21st February 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 28th February 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Evening Service

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon Sunday 10th January 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 17th January 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 24th January 10.30 am “Something Different” Service

Sunday 17th January 10.30am Churches Together in Markfield United Service at Trinity Methodist Church

Sunday 21st February 10.30am United Churches Together Service at Anglican Church 6.00pm No Evening Service

Sunday 24th January 10.15am Morning Worship

Thursday 25th February 2.00pm - 4.00pm Music Café

Sunday 7th February 10.30 am Morning Service

Sunday 28th February 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm No Evening Service

Wednesday 10th February 7.30 pm Ash Wednesday Communion at St Michael’s, Markfield

Sunday 7 February 10.15am Morning Worship followed by Communion

St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Markfield

Sunday 14th February 10.30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 14th February 10.15am Morning Worship

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

Sunday 31st January 10.15am Morning Worship with Sunday Club in Church Hall

Cross Hills Baptist Church, between Bagworth & Thornton Sunday 16th January 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 10th January 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Sunday 31st January 10.30 am Single Communion Service

Sunday 21st February 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 28th February 10.30 am “Something Different” Service

St Peter’s Church, Thornton

Sunday 17th January 10.30 am Holy Communion

Wednesday 10th February 7.30 pm Ash Wednesday Communion at St Michael’s, Markfield Sunday 14th February 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 21st February 10.30 am Holy Communion Wednesday 24th February 10.00 am Midweek Communion and Coffee Sunday 28th February 10.30 am All Age Service

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth Please note: Services will be at Bagworth Community Centre Sunday 7th February 10.30 am Holy Communion

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak Sunday 10th January 3.00 pm Praise Service Sunday 17th January 9.15 am Holy Communion (said service) Sunday 24th January 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 31st January 6.00 pm Joint Evening Service Sunday 7th February 6.00 pm Holy Communion Wednesday 10th February 7.30 pm Ash Wednesday Communion at St Michael’s, Markfield Sunday 14th February 3.00 pm Praise Service Sunday 21st February 9.15 am Holy Communion (said service) Sunday 28th February 6.00 pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 10th January 9.00 am Holy Communion

I don’t understand how medicinal pizza is not covered by insurance yet.

29 Catholic Church of St Wilfrid of York 53 London Road, Coalville, LE67 3JB

Sunday Mass Saturday Vigil: 6 pm Sunday: 10 am See Newsletter on the website for details of weekday Mass times, Benediction & Confessions. Parish Priest: Fr Tom Breslin – 01530 832098, www.stwilfspriest@gmail.com Parish Website: www.stwilfscoalville. blogspot.co.uk St Clare’s R C Primary School, Coalville: 01530 837747, www.st-clares.leics.sch.uk De Lisle RC College, Loughborough: 01509 268739, www.delisle./leics.sch.uk Markfield Masses in the Congregational Church Hall, Main St, beside the Chinese Takeaway

Looking for romance? SADLY, for many of us romance is an elusive thing. So if you are single, and looking to at least meet other Christian singles, you may care to visit the following websites: www.Christianconnection.co.uk , www.christianevents.co.uk, and www. friends1st.co.uk. They don’t promise to have the person of your dreams, but, you never know!

‘The Chatterbox’

Friendly Discussion group seeks new members at Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation As a registered charity the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation prides itself on offering a welcoming, supportive setting for those living in the local community and throughout Leicestershire. A new inclusive social group ‘The Chatterbox’ will meet every first Friday of the month from 2.30pm – 3.45pm at Ulverscroft Grange, Whitwick Road, Ulverscroft, Leicestershire LE67 9QB. The informal discussion group will be welcoming new members on Friday 5th February from 2.30pm – Booking is essential and complimentary tea and cake will be available to all those attending! Monthly sessions will continue throughout 2016, with the Foundation welcoming a donation of £1.00 per person to include a refreshment. Helen Baxter, Activities coordinator at the Foundation, said ‘We are encouraging those in the locality to join our new discussion group! Our meet ups will consist of an hour of informal friendly discussion, and are open to all ages and abilities’. She added ‘we are delighted to have the support of LASU, (Leicestershire Adult Schools Union) and we hope to provide a platform for individuals to share ideas and knowledge in a supportive and stimulating way!”. For more information and to book a place, please contact Activities Coordinator Helen Baxter on 01530 244914 or email hello@shuttlewood-clarke.org

Don’t die The vicar announced: ‘I am sure that you will not wish to overwork our visiting priest while I am on holiday, and will keep funerals to a minimum.’

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0116 287 8000 The great thing about being hungover is that I was going to be miserable today anyway.

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

To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - the names of 12 items of furniture. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: TAKE A SEAT, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Tuesday 2nd February 2016. Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s Flat Cap will win the Meal for Two at The Field Head Hotel. Good luck! Find the following 12 pieces of furniture: ARMCHAIR • BAR STOOL • BOOKCASE • CARD TABLE CHAISE LONGUE • CHINA CABINET • COFFEE TABLE FOUR POSTER BED • OTTOMAN • ROCKING CHAIR SIDEBOARD • WRITING DESK

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

Last Month’s Competition Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch Competition was: LUCY HANCOCK of Markfield Lane, Markfield Congratulations! Your voucher will be sent to you soon.

Stanton-Under- Bardon Primary School NEWS ‘Talk the Talk’ THREE PUPILS from Stanton Under Bardon Primary school recently attended Groby Community College, alongside other students from local schools, to participate in public speaking on their chosen subject. The children had to speak for two minutes and topics ranged from the ‘Sims game’ to ‘racial inequality through history’. Everyone involved was impressed with the confidence, knowledge and articulation with which the children spoke and despite being nervous the pupils enjoyed the experience.

Charity Fundraising WE WOULD like to thank everyone who has been involved in our fundraising events last term and share how much we have raised for charitable causes. For our Harvest gathering we raised £16.53 for Water Aid, in aid of Children in Need we raised £216.28 and for the Royal British Legion we raised £90.28 selling poppies.

If you enjoy reading The Herald, please pass it on to a friend or relative after you’ve finished with it. Thanks! “Because it would be hilarious,” is probably not a good reason to elect someone to be president.

Jamie Vardy draws the LOROS Raffle LEICESTER CITY star Jamie Vardy has drawn the LOROS Christmas Raffle, with the first prize ticket winning one lucky player more than £10,000. The footballer, who recently broke the Guinness World Record after scoring in 11 consecutive Premier League games, took part in the LOROS Lotteries draw at their training ground. Speaking about the event, Jamie said: “It’s a privilege to be involved in LOROS events - as long as I’ve played for Leicester City there has always been a strong relationship between us. “Congratulations to all the raffle winners and to LOROS on a great fundraising effort.” Jamie was joined by LOROS Patron and Leicester City Ambassador Alan Birchenall, LOROS CEO John Knight, LOROS Lottery Manager Liz Singleton, along with a few members of the Lotteries team. The 28-year-old striker also spent time with Guy Lambeth, who has Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and uses the services at LOROS. The LOROS Christmas Raffle has this year raised more than £104,000 for the Hospice. The winner of this year’s top prize which was £10,030 or a Toyota Yaris, is yet to be formally announced. LOROS Hospice is currently seeking a sponsor for 2016’s Spring Raffle, if you are interested please call LOROS Lotteries on: (0116) 231 8430 The results from this year’s LOROS Christmas Raffle can be found on the website: www.loros.co.uk/raffle

I’m not brave. I’m just past the age where running is an option.

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