Issuu

GLENFIELD JANUARY

2022

MONTHLY NEWS, INFORMATION & ENTERTAINMENT FOR GLENFIELD

Carols on the Green

WE ENJOYED a Christmas celebration “Carols on the Green” event at the Glenfield Millennium Green, jointly arranged by the u3a committee and the Millennium Green Trustees.

is Monday 17th January. Read about it on page 21.

It was a great community event with music by flautists Helen and Jane from the Leicester Bardi Orchestra, plus Glenfield Ladies Cooperative Choir members to help lead the singing. Hot mulled fruit juice and mince pies warmed us on a chilly starlit night and to top it all Santa arrived on his sleigh to the delight of Children young and old! A collection for Menphys was held and raised just over £100. If you are interested in joining Glenfield u3a, which is targeted at keeping people active in their third age after finishing full time work, more information can be found on their web site by Googling Glenfield u3a. You can also find out more about the Millennium Green in the same way.

Age Concern Glenfield needs your help

BREW MONDAY

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL GAZETTE READERS!

New Year Rainbow

LIKE MANY small charities and volunteer groups, we at Age Concern Glenfield could do with a little help. We are still managing to keep going although many of the small local groups have folded, through a lack of volunteers. We really need an influx of new, younger blood to raise our morale and keep things going, as the present Trustees battle with advancing years. It doesn’t require a lot of time but it does help to provide a meeting place, our Drop In and the opportunities to take an organised coach trip. If you could spare a little time to help please come to our next meeting on Monday 7th February 2022 at Park House,Stamford Street, Glenfield at 2pm. If you would like to have a chat beforehand give me a call on 0116 299 1868

John Springthorpe Chair, Age Concern Glenfield

ANGELA BISHOP has kindly sent us this terrific photo of the rainbow which was witnessed by lots of villagers on Sunday 2nd January. Lets hope it is a sign of better things to come in 2022.

ARTICLE & ADVERT DEADLINE FOR NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE IS 20TH JANUARY

www.oaktreelettings.co.uk

LANDLORDS Demand for rental property has never been higher, whilst the risk to landlords is increasing in these uncertain times Place your property under full management with us and receive free rent guarantee and tenant eviction protection for 12 months* We pride ourselves on our friendly yet professional approach and are pleased to be celebrating our ten year anniversary this year, Contact us and see why so many landlords recommend us * terms apply, please see our website for full details

Contact Louise or Marianne for an information pack or to arrange a free property appraisal

Call: 0116 287 0334

Email: lettings@oaktreelettings.co.uk 86 Faire Road, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8ED

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

All the latest news from Christmas at Glenfield Primary WE WERE really busy with all things Christmassy at Glenfield, in our final few weeks of term. There have been brilliant performances from every year group which have really gotten us into the Christmas Spirit, ready for a festive end to the year!

Early Years and KS1 AMAZING, sweet, fabulous! A range of thrilling shows packed with smiles, laughter and wonderful singing. Our littlest children have worked so hard to learn and perform a range of songs, alongside acting out the story of Mary, Joseph and the Donkey - who travelled to Bethlehem. Some children played the role of beautiful stars who sang a lovely song that filled everybody’s souls with Christmas joy! Well done to everybody in Early Years and KS1!

Layla and Chloe, Year 6 Year 6 Virtual Police Visit YEAR 6 took part in a question and answer sessions with Police Officer, PC Burton, who works for London Metropolitan Police. She told us about what it takes to become a Police Officer and what a typical day on the job looks like. We recognized the different skills needed to be successful in the Police as characteristics we work on all the time in school, such as: resilience, honesty, responsibility and self-control. It was a really interesting talk and lots of us now are considering a career as a Police Officer.

ONE OF GLENFIELD’S oldest & most loved residents, Albert Sansome, a retired painter & decorator, of Treaty Road, passed away peacefully aged 93, on 20th December 2021 (non-Covid related). Well known throughout the village for over 60 years, Albert was one of the most, friendly, cheerful and helpful people you could ever wish to meet.

Joel, Year 6

A devoted animal lover, along with his wife Margaret, who passed away in 2014, they donated and helped raise thousands of pounds for charitable animal organisations.

KS2

Incredibly, Albert was still renovating and painting RSPCA collection boxes into his ninetieth year.

YEARS 3, 4, 5 and 6 also worked especially hard in the last few weeks to put together a range of exciting Christmas performances with singing, dancing, musicians, poetry and readings.

He will be greatly missed by family, friends, neighbours and former customers.

All the children showed real confidence and courage when in the spotlight. They have all done an incredible job and teachers, parents and children are all extremely proud! Merry Christmas!

Tere, Year 6

If you enjoy reading the Gazette, please pass it on to a friend or relative when you’ve finished with it. It’s fun to share! Thanks.

5 Steyning Crescent, Glenfield Leicester LE3 8PL

0116 287 3226

LOCAL • RELIABLE • REASONABLE • QUALIFIED

If I ever get taken in for questioning, I hope there’s no algebra.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

Red lipstick Nothing says sexy quite like red lipstick, and the colour is as popular now as it has ever been. Although many women say they won’t wear it because it doesn’t suit them, it’s usually the rest of their make-up that is wrong. Firstly, take it really easy on both eye make-up and blusher. Don’t use eyeliner and take care that your mascara isn’t giving you an over-thetop false-eyelash effect. Dust your face with a blemish-smoothing powder and your cheeks with a soft blush in a fairly neutral colour. Secondly, not all reds are equal. Tone your lipstick choice to your complexion, choosing a plum shade if you have pink tones or a warmer red-brown if you look more sallow. Thirdly, don’t overdo it. Red lips, red clothes, red nails and red accessories will give you entirely the wrong sort of allure. The lips need to be the main feature and as far as practical everything

else should be neutral. Finally, if you are older you’ll find that your lips are narrower than they once were and strong dark shades of red can accentuate that. If you had thin lips even in your youth, you might find that red really doesn’t work for you. If that is the case, stick to a neutral lipstick but work on making more of your eyes, and use fluttering eyelashes instead of a pout to get the message to your Valentine.

Letter from Uncle Eustace

On how to survive a residential conference The Rectory St James the Least of All My dear Nephew Darren I am glad you enjoyed your conference, but please do not be deluded into thinking that conferences are there to teach you anything. Conferences exist to provide another entry on your CV, to give you time off while flattering yourself that you are working, and to make the person leading it feel that their life is not wholly pointless. As it happened, I was also invited to the same one, the one entitled ‘Learning how to say no.’ But I refused to attend, thereby proving that I didn’t need it anyway. There are certain useful points you need to learn for conferences. First, about half the attendees will have been together only the previous week attending another conference in another part of the country. They will be eager, enthusiastic, and overflowing with management platitudes. Avoid them at all costs. Should one of them say to you: ‘expect the unexpected’ you have my permission to strangle them. They won’t have expected that! Secondly, when you are all asked to go through that ghastly process of introducing yourselves to everyone else, make it up. I think the last time I was obliged to do this, I became a butcher specialising in exporting offal to Saudi Arabia. All your clerical colleagues will then panic that they have turned up for the wrong course and the leader will make sure that you are not asked another single question throughout the event. Both outcomes are satisfying. Thirdly, do realise that when you are asked to divide into small discussion groups, it means that the conference leader has run out of ideas about what to do next. Do not, at all costs, volunteer to be chairman. It only means that when you have to report back – and if the leaders use the word ‘plenary’, then by all means contemplate strangling them also – you will be involved in sticking sheets of paper on to walls, which will then rip off the wallpaper when you try to remove them. You will also have the embarrassment of finding that every felt tip pen you try to use will be empty, and what you thought were the conclusions your group had arrived at will be volubly contradicted by all the other members.

PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT Tel: 0116 287 3122 info@glenfieldgazette.com www.glenfieldgazette.com

The Glenfield Gazette is a monthly local magazine delivered free to approximately 5,000 homes and businesses in Glenfield. 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 Glenfield Gazette 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 Glenfield Gazette 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 Glenfield Gazette reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/ or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © The Glenfield Gazette. None of the articles or adverts contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from The Glenfield Gazette.

No, if you are ever obliged to attend another course, take a good book, enough claret to cover every evening away, and develop a debilitating illness that, while enabling you to attend every meal, obliges you to retreat to your room for the rest of the day. You will leave having learned as much on whatever the topic was as your colleagues, but you will return refreshed and eager to make the next booking. Your loving uncle,

Eustace Unfortunately, I have one pair of running shoes and fifteen pairs of eating shoes.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

Glenfield Bathrooms

OFF % 20

Call our Bathroom, Carpet & Flooring Centre, on: 0116 287 11 99

ER FLY HIS T H WIT

WINTER DEALS! BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

STAIRS & LANDING CARPET SUPPLIED *GB Twist carpet supplied and fitted inc underlay, gripper (max 4m x 4m cut)

KRONO LAMINATE IN STOCK AND READY TO TAKE AWAY! WAS £15.99 PER SQ M

AND FITTED £300! *T&C APPLY

NOW ONLY £10.99 PER SQ M

UNIT 2 102 DOMINION ROAD LE3 8FB ABOVE PARKEM CHEMIST

JAKKI O’ROURKE AESTHETICS

Address: 20 Devonshire Road, Leicester, LE4 0BF (Opposite B&Q) Email : sales@glenfield-bathrooms.co.uk

JAKKI_OROURKE_AESTHETICS_

I’m organising a 0.000005K run to raise awareness for laziness.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

Railway Stories BY TED COOK

IN 1965 at 15 I started work as Junior Porter at Arundel station on the Mid Sussex Line. Arundel is the home of the Duke of Norfolk and at this time he was a regular traveller to and from London by train. Now the usual procedure was the Duke’s man would bring his bag onto the platform and the Leading Porter would put it on the train and the Duke would tip him half a crown(12 1/2p) This day I also had a bag to put on the train for a lady she followed me into the train closing the door behind her. To stop me being carried away I quickly made my exit via the other door where the Duke was standing he gives me the tip so I leave the train and try to get Paddy the Leading Porter’s attention but he does not see me as he passes the Duke the Duke dips into his pocket for another half crown. After the train had gone I got a clip round the ear for being cheeky to the Duke! As far as I know Paddy never gave the second coin back to the Duke! Another time I was on 12 hour shift 10am to 10 pm as no one had checked the car park I had to do it first and it was pouring with rain. At 6pm the Duke came off the train from London and walked to the car park I panicked! In the rain I had not checked. The Duke stopped by the booking office I run out. He shows me the ticket asking for two shillings car park to park on his own land! I quickly try to explain but he just laughs and throws the two shilling piece at me for my cheek and gets in the car still laughing!!!! More stories from Ted via e mail edward8fw@btinternet.com

How to avoid a burst pipe nightmare this winter

UK PLUMBING register WaterSafe is partnering with the Met Office to share advice with property-owners in the East Midlands on being prepared to deal with the winter worry of burst water pipes – as well as how to prevent them. WaterSafe is sharing their stop tap and 40% would call a plumber – but only 2% these five essential steps: highlighted draining the system • Turn off the water supply as an important action to coming into your property minimise damage. at the stop tap and switch off your boiler.

• Open all your taps to drain the system as quickly as possible, saving some water in a bucket for flushing toilets and hand washing. When the water stops running, turn all the taps off. • Soak up escaping water with towels to limit the damage. • Call a WaterSafe approved plumber who is qualified to work on the plumbing system in your home. • If water has leaked near your electrics, do not touch them and switch them off at the fuse box. The WaterSafe survey showed that across the UK, of those with some knowledge of what to do if a pipe bursts, 60% of people know how to turn off

Property owners will usually find their internal stop tap under the kitchen sink, but it can also be found under the stairs or in garages, utility rooms, cellars or downstairs toilets. It’s a good idea to make sure the stop tap is working – and to check it every six months for peace of mind.

My Old Trolley By Paul Tuff of Glenfield

One day I made a trolley The fastest in our street I never found any other That my old trolley couldn’t beat. I made it from pram wheels and wood Which I’d salvaged from the tip Then greased it well with cart grease To give it some extra zip. On the seat I fixed some lino With string so I could steer To me it was a Ferrari The racing car of the year. I’d hurry home after school Each night to have my tea Then I’d go into our back yard Where my trolley would wait for me. I took it on many practice runs Before racing the kids in our street But I felt very confident My trolley would not be beat. Pindar Road hill was my race track Where crashes I had my share The problem was - I had no brakes Just shoe leather and a fast prayer. Many a time I raced that track More often than not I won But sadly now it’s all in the past My racing days are done.

It’s important to let your home insurance company know about your burst pipe as soon as possible, who will advise you on what to do next. To avoid burst pipes in the first place, wrap up pipework in any unheated areas, such as lofts, utility rooms and garages, with insulating lagging, to prevent it from freezing. Make sure there are no gaps at bends, valves or fittings. Leave the heating on low if you are away.

I don’t know what my credit score is but I’m pretty sure I’m losing.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

Christmas Day For Those Alone THIS YEAR it was an extremely difficult decision as to whether to go ahead or not re Covid and meant a lot of worrying and sleepless nights! I decided to go ahead as some folks really don’t go out much at all and this is a lifeline for them, we do have to look after people’s mental health too and I believe if we had cancelled to would have been too much for some of our guests. Re Covid, I decided to change our venue as the Church rooms where we normally hold this cannot be ventilated easily, so we joined forces with Brenda Featherstone at Little Markfield Farm in their barn. It is set up for events and has natural ventilation plus a lovely big log fire and other heaters which meant we had a ventilated but warm room! We of course also did everything we could to be as safe as possible. We catered for 70 people, and everyone had a wonderful time with a fantastic meal cooked by Brenda and Coralie, a present, goody bag, and a gift of fudge each, but most importantly company! Many thanks for course to Brenda, David and Coralie at Little Markfield Farm for letting us all join you.

Call the team you can Trust!!! Testimonials on Trustatrader

“The whole experience was professionally & efficiently managed, courteous & friendly. I am completely satisfied with the work done.” Mr T J Norris “Incredibly tidy, friendly and professional. A pleasure to have around, extremely honest and considerate. Superby service all round.” Mr McVeigh

FEBRUARY SALE

JANUARY SALE UP TO 40% UP TODISCOUNT 40% DISCOUNT ON ANY UPVC PRODUCTS ORDERED IN FEBRUARY

We are also giving away FREE upgrade to Triple Glazing on all Windows FREE Downpipes with all Fascia Soffits and Guttering

• Insulated Conservatory Roofs •

Thanks to all the wonderful volunteers, to folks of Anstey, Markfield and surrounding villages for all their donations made to our donation hubs, my friends, and colleagues and all who have donated. Thanks to Markfield Community Centre and Roy Greens in Anstey for being donation hubs. Thanks to all the companies who donated goods or money: Next, Tesco (Fosse Road North), Morrisons (Glenfield), Langtons Butchers (Glenfield), Pladis (prev Jacobs), Oooh fudge, Charnwood brewery, Co-Op, GTS security (Anstey), Whitfields Grocers (Anstey).

Kerry Sharpe

Just noticed a sign on a pub door saying ‘Guide Dogs Only’. Possibly the most exclusive pub ever.

Graham Botterill Soft Furnishings

Quality Hand Made Curtains Blinds & Re-upholstery Full Measuring & Fitting Service For Samples & Quotations Phone

0116 236 4221

Family Run Business for 4 Decades Showroom: 71 Church Lane Anstey, Leicester LE7 7AF

The police want to interview me. Strange, I didn’t even apply for a job there.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

Small Ads

Winter Wonders

• Corby Trouser Press. Price £25. Tel: 0794 1612481 (Glenfield)

The winter months can be a little lacklustre in the garden. However carefully you plant your flowerbeds and borders, the number of brightly coloured plants for winter performance is rather limited. But one of the most important ingredients in a winter garden is perfume – it’s certainly something which can transform my mood in an instant. So think scent, as there are a few really brilliant winter perfume plants, and there’s a good chance that they’ll be readily available in garden centres and nurseries right now. The witch hazels or Hamamelis are favourite winter flowerers. With their unusual orientallooking yellow, orange or bronzy-red spidery flowers on bare branches they look stunning. But of course looks are not everything and the perfume of the witch hazels is what really makes them such an asset – sweet, spicy and wonderfully good at wafting around the garden. Various colours are available, in shades of brightest orange through to rich burgundy. Wintersweet or Chimonanthus is another recommendation. The branches are covered with creamy to yellow-coloured multi-petalled flowers with a seriously sweet perfume. Like the witch hazel it’s quite slow growing and doesn’t need a huge amount of space. This means it’s a perfect choice for the smaller garden, but make sure you consider carefully where to plant it, so that you can enjoy every aspect of its display. If you like a bit of variegated foliage then try the Daphne odora ‘Aureo-marginata’, which has classic purple-pink clusters of flowers, a very strong perfume and leaves that are typically green and leathery but with a bright yellow leaf margin. It can be a little temperamental, but after its first year a Daphne generally settles in well and you won’t regret buying it. The Viburnums may be a shrub you think of as a summer-flowering plant, but varieties such as Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ not only

• MOBILITY SCOOTER Superglide CX, 3mph-6.25mph with shelter (Garage). Price: £500. Tel: 0116 373 7011 or 07549 631754 (Groby) • SEWING MACHINE - in good condition. Price: £10. Tel: 01530 485614 (Markfield)

look good but also provide your garden with a sumptuous perfume. Planted in a sheltered spot, it won’t let you down. Mahonias can be a trifle spiky with their hollylike leaves, but when they are in flower their brightest yellow spikes are really eye-catching and Mahonia japonica produces one of the sweetest perfumes you could wish for, from the middle of winter to early spring. If you prefer one with more upright flowers, go for Mahonia x media ‘Charity’. Mahonias are good in part shade or full sun. Winter-flowering honeysuckles are not as showy as their summer-flowering relations, but definitely still lovely. The bare stems are covered with small white-cream flowers, which produce a tremendously sweet, spicy aroma both night and day. And finally, don’t forget the Sarcococcas or winter box. With their small, pretty but inconspicuous flowers they may not instantly leap out and draw attention to themselves, but the perfume of those tiny flowers is tremendous and really strong, making them a great winterflowering shrub that is highly recommended by gardeners in the know.

• JAY-BE FOLDING SINGLE BED. Good quality mattress. As new, used twice cover included. Buyer collects. Price: £100. Tel: 01530 230923. • DOUBLE SOFA BED in distinctive rustic colours with 2 matching cushions / pillows. Price: £50. Tel: 01530 243158 (Markfield) IF YOU HAVE any unwanted items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Gazette, please SEND DETAILS by post or email sorry, we can’t take them over the phone. This is a service for private individuals, not businesses. Maximum 8 items please. Post to: Gazette Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@glenfieldgazette.com PLEASE ENSURE that you put ‘SMALL ADS’ in the subject line, and INCLUDE YOUR FULL POSTAL ADDRESS (not for publication, just to let buyers know where you are).

When I was a child, I wanted to be a surgeon. But apparently I was too young.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

House for Sale in Glenfield

WEBB’S ESTATE AGENTS are ffering for sale a deceptively spacious 1930’s period detached family home which has been extended by the current owners over 30 years to impeccable standards. The property - at Leicester Road, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8HE - briefly comprises of: entrance hallway, inner hallway, guest WC, lounge, sitting room, study/bedroom, stunning kitchen, conservatory, second lounge (annex) with stairs to first floor in addition to the through hallway, five good sized bedrooms, en-suite, shower room and family bathroom. Externally there is a generous driveway providing ample off road parking for several vehicles. To the rear of the property there are substantially large landscaped gardens with non-overlooked aspect. Asking price: Offers over £700,000. Tel: 01455 687987 | Email: hinckley@webbsestateagents.co.uk |

www.webbestateagents.co.uk

Martin Page Martin Page ’S MartinNLFPage D L S ’ E DI E I E F L Tree Surgeon Martin Page G local local Tree Surgeon GLEN

Just like the rest of your property S Just like the rest your property ’ youof considered your trees may need LD have youhave E I considered your trees some maintenance frommay timeneed to time. F ENELDlocal ’S Tree some maintenance from time too to time. Surgeon Are your trees maybe tall ? FI blocking light, unsafe or untidy?

yourproperty trees maybe too tall ? Just like the rest Are of your

local Surgeon your hedges shrubs need trimming blocking light, unsafe oror untidy? have youTree considered your Do trees may need

or removing st like themaintenance rest of your property some to time. Dofrom yourtime hedges or shrubs need trimming Do you need to remove that stubborn ve you considered your trees may or removing Are your trees maybe too tall ?need stump me maintenance from time to time. Do you need to remove that stubborn blocking light, unsafe or untidy? years of experience working stump e your tall ? With Do trees your maybe hedges too or shrubs need 30 trimming with trees in your area, I would be or removing ocking light, unsafe or untidy? With 30 years of experience working pleased to offer you free advise and a Dohedges you need to remove that stubborn o your or shrubs need trimming with trees in your area, I would be free quotation. stump removing Pruning Stump pleased to removal offer you free advise and a Fully insured call me now on ofReshaping experience working o youWith need30toyears remove that stubborn free quotation. Thinning Local family business Stump area, removal I would be umpwith Pruning trees in your Felling Clean & tidy service Reshaping Fully insured call me now on th 30 years of experience working Thinning Local family business pleased to offer you free advise and a Felling Clean I& would tidy service th trees in your area, Ibealso sell high free quotation. Stump removal eased to offer you free advise and on a Fully insured call me now quality Local family business I also sell high free quotation. Clean & tidy service moval

0116 250 5847 0116 250 5847

0116now 250 5847 logs hardwood call mequality on Constantly Recommended I also sell high hardwood 0116 250 5847 logs quality Constantly Recommended lso sell high hardwood logs ality Constantly Recommended rdwood logs

ured mily business tidy service

The reason grandchildren and grandparents get along so well is because they have a common ‘enemy’.

Constantly Recommended

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

Free money saving advice for Blaby businesses

Glenfield Glenfield Plastering

Plastering

Plastering, rendering, coving, partitioning, dry lining and project management

Plastering, rendering, management

All of jobs welcome 25 years quality assured plaste No job too large or small related finishing services acr Free quotations Leicestershire and the East Mid 25 years of quality

At a time when running costs are rising and financial pressures continue to be felt by small businesses, the Council has teamed up with Place Support Partnership, a consultancy who have worked with businesses across the country to identify money saving opportunities.

Friendly, clean and reliable service

assured plastering and related finishing All jobs welcome Phone: 01530 244 514 services across Mobile: 07720479792 No job too large or sm E-mail: nickfitch20@gmail.com Leicestershire and the Free quotations East Midlands

From card machine fees to gas, water, and electricity, the service will be completely free for any businesses who receive advice on reducing their running costs.

Friendly, clean and reliable

Funded by Welcome Back Funding, which the Council successfully bid for from Central Government and the European Regional Development Fund to support all businesses in the district, the move is part of Blaby District Council’s commitment to help its local centres recover following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Councillor Sharon Coe, Portfolio Holder for Health, Wellbeing, Community Engagement and Business Support, said: “I am delighted to help launch this new service. It is still so important that we continue our support for small businesses in the district whilst they recover from the difficult 18 months we have all experienced.

Flat Roof Repair, Ridges, Chinney Repointing etc Kitchens, Doors, Windows all building work undertaken UPVC. Facia Boards 20yr guarantee

Tel: 01530 243789

Mobile 07866 518907 npbbuilder@gmail.com

1A JACQUELINE ROAD, MARKFIELD

• All jobs welcome • NoPhone: job too01530 large 244 51 or small Mobile: 07720479792 • Free quotations E-mail: nickfitch20@gmail.c • Friendly, clean and reliable service Phone: 01530 244 514 Mobile: 07720 479792 Email: nickfitch20@ gmail.com

Letter

“We hope that the support and advice given will see big financial savings for our local businesses and look forward to working with Place Support Partnership on this service.” Alberto Costa, MP for South Leicestershire, said: “Small businesses are the backbone of our local and national economy, however the last 18 months or so has been particularly difficult for so many up and down the country, hence why I am very pleased to see that Blaby District Council are launching this new service to help support businesses in South Leicestershire. “I am sure many will benefit from this new money saving advice service, and I should like to thank Blaby District Council for once again being proactive in supporting local businesses as we continue our recovery from the Covid pandemic.”

READING the letter regarding selfish dog owners (Dec 2021 issue) I would like, through your pages please, to encourage residents in Glenfield to email the Blaby District Council Dog Fouling unit about any nuisance fouling in Glenfield. I was especially encouraged when the dog mess outside our house was cleaned up within 24 hours of our reporting it. What a fantastic service! The Council needs us to give as much information about dog mess, as soon as you find it. They may then be able to trace fouling dog owners. The vast majority of dog owners clean up after their dogs, they too can help spot the very small minority who are selfish and disrespectful to their neighbours and the very place they want to use for their own and their dogs exercise. I also echo the request that more signs are put up and in places easily seen and read. Gazette is also a great service! Thank you.

Blaby District Council and committee meetings available on YouTube

SCRUTINY of the Administration’s Budget Proposals meetings taking place online will be available for the public to view LIVE on YouTube. Meetings are held at 5.30pm on: •

12 January 2022

•

19 January 2022

•

26 January 2022

•

27 January 2022

25coving, years of quality assured plastering and Plastering, rendering, coving, par partitioning, related finishing services across dry lining and project manage Leicestershire the East Midlands dry liningand and project

BUSINESSES in Blaby District will be able to benefit from free advice by a money-saving consultancy, in a project funded by Blaby District Council.

Blaby District Council Leader, Councillor Terry Richardson, attended the launch with Alberto Costa, MP for South Leicestershire, and Rishi Rood, Managing Director of Place Support Partnership, at Blaby Town Centrebased Barry Botts Jewellers.

https://www.blaby.gov.uk/environmental-issue/animals-and-pests/ dog-fouling/

Glenfield Resident

And I quote ... “Everything is changing. People are taking their comedians seriously and the politicians as a joke.” Will Rogers “Some people die at twenty-five and aren’t buried until they are seventy-five.” Benjamin Franklin

My apocalypse survival plan is to die immediately.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

MARTIN TIBBLES

Enrich Your Child’s Learning Experiences

PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES For all your home interior & exterior redecoration requirements by a qualified tradesman contact Martin on

0116 291 0489 07855 412945

COVID VACCINATED

Dust If You Must

by Rose Milligan Dust if you must, but wouldn’t it be better To paint a picture, or write a letter,

38 YEARS EXPERIENCE

e Day Nurs e r T y ery r r e

ow ell ugh f ng ro rti s th ic o m er pp Su ork nde a w y p ke the

& Kidz Club

Bake a cake, or plant a seed; Ponder the difference between want and need? Dust if you must, but there’s not much time, With rivers to swim, and mountains to climb; Music to hear, and books to read; Friends to cherish, and life to lead. Dust if you must, but the world’s out there With the sun in your eyes, and the wind in your hair; A flutter of snow, a shower of rain, This day will not come around again. Dust if you must, but bear in mind, Old age will come and it’s not kind. And when you go (and go you must) You, yourself, will make more dust.

Dis for coun NH ts a S w va or ilab ke rs le

“Staff in the baby room place high priority on nurturing babies’ emotional wellbeing, hence settle in well.” “Children are happy, settled and enjoy their time in the nursery.” “Staff work closely with parents to reflect routines from home, and are caring and attentive to children’s individual needs.” OFSTED quote

We provide quality care for 0-11 yrs old, from 7.15am, Monday to Friday, all year round. 30 hours FREE for 3 & 4 year olds 15 hours FREE for 2 year olds Breakfast Club school drop offs Kidz Club collect from school Holiday Club trips around the county

17 Holmwood Drive, Leicester LE3 9LG Tel: 0116 287 0092 Email: cherrytreeinfo@btinternet.com

Find us and our sister settings: Apple Tree Day Nursery & Kidz Club and Pear Tree Nursery School & Kidz Club

What a tree can do for you TREES CAN HELP prevent you getting depressed. At least, you are less likely to be on antidepressants if you live on a tree-lined street.

That is the finding of a survey by the Forestry Commission, which looked for the first time at the mental health value of our forests and woodlands. Apparently, they save the NHS something like £185million in antidepressants each year. A spokesman at Mind, the mental health charity, said: “Although many of us feel like hibernating in winter, getting outside in green spaces and making the most of the little daylight we get can really benefit both your physical and mental health.”

I’m like a well-oiled machine that someone forgot to oil.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

Worth a watch ...

Mrs Caldicot’s

Cabbage War

Chicken Goulash Here’s a delicious winter warming midweek supper that can be rustled up in less than 40 minutes. We’ve used chicken fillets but you can use cheaper boneless chicken thighs or try strips of lean sirloin steak or pork fillet instead. Serves: 4 Ready in: 35 minutes • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 tbsp sunflower oil 600g skinless chicken fillets, thinly sliced 1 red onion, peeled and chopped 200g button mushrooms, wiped 1 tsp smoked paprika 2 tsp plain flour 150ml passata (see tip) 150ml chicken stock Salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 tbsp soured cream Boiled potatoes, to serve Fresh chopped parsley, to garnish

1. Heat the oil in a large deep frying pan. Add the chicken and onion and fry over a medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until both are lightly browned. Add the mushrooms and fry for a further 2 minutes. 2. Mix together the paprika and flour and stir into the pan. Cook for 1 minute then gradually stir in the passata and stock. Season with salt and pepper. 3. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through. Serve topped with soured cream and boiled potatoes. Sprinkle over the chopped parsley to garnish.

Tip Passata is simply ripe tomatoes that have been pureed then sieved to remove any skin and pips. You’ll find it in jars near the canned tomatoes in the supermarket. You can use a small can of chopped tomatoes instead – just whizz in a food processor or with a hand blender until smooth.

Good Game, Good Game! WITH LITTLE to watch on TV this Christmas, many families probably entertained themselves by playing games. Traditional games, like Monopoly, Cluedo and Charades are still very popular, but some newcomers can also provide the family with lots of fun. In our house, the favourite game this Christmas was Medium. It’s a social word game of reading your friends’ minds. Here’s a brief description: In teams of two, you and a partner will have a hand of word cards (BANJO, TROPICAL, SHORT, BIGFOOT, PICNIC, etc). You’ll each play a card, then attempt to CREATE A PSYCHIC CONNECTION together to think of the word that somehow connects them. The correct answer is whatever word your partner thinks of, so you’ll have to think alike to find it! Together, you’ll count down: ‘three...two...one’ then say the same word at the same time. And when you do, it feels perfect.

Our dog can find anything. It’s a Labragoogle.

MRS CALDICOT’S Cabbage War is a British comedydrama film from 2002, directed by Ian Sharp and starring Pauline Collins, John Alderton and Peter Capaldi. It is based on a 1993 novel by author Vernon Coleman. It is the story about a woman, Thelma Caldicot, who is coerced by her manipulative son Derek and daughterin-law to move into a rundown nursing home, owned by Derek’s employer, after the death of her bullying husband. Derek also gets her to sign over her house to him. However, she doesn’t like it at the nursing home and shows her frustration. After having been medicated by the staff to stay calm, she finally incites her fellow inmates to revolt. The film is available on Netflix and Amazon Prime - or watch it for free on YouTube (Search for: Mrs Caldicot’s Cabbage War 2002 FULL MOVIE on YouTube)

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

Saving the Planet via Kitchen and Bathroom in 2022 AS WORLD LEADERS wake up to the crisis of global warming and plan emergency measures before it is too late, each of us can make a difference right now, beginning in our own homes.

Start in the KITCHEN 25% of the world’s food is thrown away. One supermarket discovered British households waste seven million tonnes of food waste every year, partly because most of our fridges aren’t cold enough. Keeping the fridge temperature at a maximum of 4 degrees will help food last longer and save waste. Vast quantities of greenhouse gases are released by animals reared to supply us with red meat and dairy products. Cutting down on quantities and conserving leftovers would help. Conserving electricity by washing clothes at 30 degrees and replacing power-hungry tumble driers with a clothes line or old-fashioned clothes-horse would have the added advantage of reducing soaring power bills. According to the Good Housekeeping Institute, “many mainstream detergents are brimming with synthetic chemicals like phosphates, chlorine and bleach that pollute our waterways, damaging delicate ecosystems, and may irritate sensitive skin.” Plant-based and eco-friendly alternatives are now readily available and work well in the washing machine and dishwasher.

Don’t forget the BATHROOM Annual increases in UK water consumption would be curbed, if we were to shower rather than bath. Exchanging the shower head for a water-saving type, which regulates or aerates the flow, would save both water and cash. Spending less time in the shower needn’t be a hardship. Daily shampooing may actually be counter-productive – it’s best to let some oils remain in the hair, so they can act as moisturisers. Biodegradable body wash is available in bulk, from which re-usable containers can be filled. Eco-friendly toothpaste is now on the market, some of it in plasticfree containers. More water can be saved by turning the tap off as we brush. Beware wet-wipes which may be ‘flushable’, but aren’t biodegradable, because they are part-plastic. Eco-friendly alternatives are now available. Saving the planet needn’t cost the earth.

Last week I sold the house for £150,000. I was very pleased with that because I was renting.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

War time method was ‘only way’ to save crash victim’s hand

AS MARTIN SHAW’S car came to a stop after rolling four times his first feeling was relief that he’d survived.

Martin’s injured hand was attached to his abdomen for around four weeks to help the healing process.

Plastic surgeon, Nakul Patel, said: “Mr Shaw sustained multiple fractures all his fingers and thumb and a large amount of his skin, tendons and muscle had all been torn away.

“I couldn’t really take it in as what they planned to do was explained to me, but I was willing to try anything to save my hand and arm,” dad-of-four Martin said. Mr Patel said: “It’s actually a very old technique, one used in war time, with the scale of Mr Shaw’s injuries we needed to do this to have any chance of saving his hand.” Martin’s hand was stitched to his chest for around four weeks, before a further operation to release it and close up his abdomen. Progress so far is good. “It’s a very strange feeling,” Martin, said. “I do keep forgetting and going to reach for things or try and move it but I’m amazed at what they’ve been able to do. “I can’t thank Mr Patel and all

First floor and two storey side and rear extension - at 32 Steyning Crescent Glenfield Leicestershire LE3 8PJ

Single storey rear extensions, conversion of garage to habitable room and pitched roof to front / side - at 6 Clovelly Road Glenfield Leicestershire LE3 8AB Single storey front extension and detached garage to front - at 152 Dominion Road Glenfield Leicestershire LE3 8JA

“The first thing to do was clean the wounds, there was mud, gravel, grass and road surface in all his wounds and that posed a high risk of infection.” Mr Patel, who lives in Groby, explained to Martin that to save his hand they needed to cover his wounds with healthy tissue. He opened a patch of skin across his abdomen and attached it to his thumb and hand to enable healthy skin to cover his fractures and exposed wounds.

Apps

nd rou way our

Loft conversion with hip to gable roof extension, flat roof dormer to rear elevation and 3x rooflights to front elevation - at 49 Glen Park Avenue Glenfield Leicestershire LE3 8GH

“What happened after the car stopped is a bit of a blur but I remember seeing my arm and thinking, that’s it, I’ve lost it,” the 35-year-old said. After arriving at the Leicester Royal Infirmary by ambulance, remarkably with no other injuries, Martin was taken to surgery that night where work started to try and save his hand.

Planning

Dormer window to rear and side and single storey rear extension - at 26 Glen Park Avenue Glenfield Leicestershire LE3 8GG

Martin with his hand separated again and healing well. of the staff here enough. Nothing has been too much trouble for anyone, the care I’ve had - I’ve been blown away. “There aren’t enough words.” Mr Patel said: “People think that plastic surgery is purely cosmetic, this is a case that shows otherwise. “Care like this is a huge team effort by surgeons, registrars, doctors, specialist nurses, health care assistants, domestics, physios, orthopaedics, chaplaincy, microbiology, the burns and plastics team, occupational therapists, psychiatrists - the list goes on.

“His case really goes to show the high standard of care on offer to patients every day and the excellent specialist care of the Kinmonth Ward staff.” Reflecting on his journey so far, Martin added: “It’s unbelievable that I’ve come out of this and will still have my hand – my kids couldn’t believe it when they saw it, they said it looked like something from the Halloween aisle, they’ve nicknamed me Frankenstein. “I’m just pleased to have my arm free so I can have a big yawn and stretch in the mornings.”

DO YOU RUN A LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUP? ARE YOU A MEMBER OF A LOCAL TEAM OR CLUB? If so, please send details of what you do, when & where you meet, etc. and we’ll give you a free mention in the Gazette. Everyone in the village will get to know about your group, and you may attract new members.

TREMENDOUS!

Erection of two single storey dwellings - at 25 Fairefield Crescent Glenfield Leicestershire LE3 8EJ Single storey rear extension and associated alterations at 8 Branting Hill Grove Glenfield Leicestershire LE3 8GE

Received a strange call from 08456 021111?

NO NEED to panic. It’s the BT Text To Landline Service - when someone sends a text to your homephone,it reads it to you. To disable text messages to your landline you need to telephone 0800 587 5252 (freephone) Press 1 (change curfew times) Press 5 (stop receiving text messages) Hang up when you get disconnected (after a short message) It will take up to 20 minutes to activate but it does work.

Our office just got a new conference table. It sleeps sixteen.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

Multi-million-pound development of Martin High School’s sports facilities in Anstey

A MULTI-MILLION-pound investment is underway – and due for completion in May 2022 – at Martin High School in Anstey, to provide state-of-the-art sports facilities which will benefit its learners, staff and community hire users. It will include a multipurpose four court badminton centre, gym facility, performance studio, learner changing rooms, staff changing rooms and extra office space. A new, larger car park will also benefit the school, as well as the community who hire the facilities. Mr Cooling, Associate Principal, commented: “We are delighted that our plans for the Sports Hall are going ahead and would like to thank the members of our local community who supported the project at planning stage. The support from the Lionheart Educational Trust has certainly shown our ongoing commitment to investing in our school and continuing to provide excellent facilities to enhance the prospects of our young people.”

Hard floor cleaning On site curtain cleaning Rugs, including oriental and antique All types of upholstery, especially leather RUGS - we are CLEANING SPECIALISTS traditional Persian or Chinese, Gabbeh or Kilim, we even love Wiltons and Shaggy ones!

01530 244900 ■ 07825 795558 stuart@theprofessionalcarpetcleaner.co.uk www.sjscarpetcleaners.co.uk CHECK OUT QUALITY OF OUR SERVICE ON SJS GOOGLE REVIEWS FOR BOTH LEICESTER AND LOUGHBOROUGH

0116 234 0548 We can take care of every detail, advise and help you on each and every step of the way. • Qualified Funeral Directors • Floral Tributes arranged • Hearse, Limousines and alternatives available • Monumental Service • Car parking available

• Online tribute and donation profile • Catering suite • Chapels of rest • Funeral plans available • 24 hour service

“GAZETTE” readers A professionally written Will discounted to just £75 A Lasting Power of Attorney discounted to just £100* Probate assistance service from just £395 Property Protection Trusts for reducing potential care home fees from just £400

Funeral arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home if preferred.

Talbott House, Leicester Road, Anstey, Leicester, Leicestershire LE7 7AT Email: talbotthouse@ansteyfunerals.com Website: www.ansteyfunerals.com

I run a support group for cats that have never had their pics posted on the internet.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

A New Dark Age

By Ross Patrick of Leicester “A DARK VISION of our coming future where the flickering glimmer of hope is the human capacity to form relationships and help each other. This is rebel fiction.” When the collapsing began, in a system where scarcity was a commodity, there was always a need for the unemployed, the homeless and the hungry. When most people could no longer afford consumer goods, there were riots. The rulers called it an attack on democracy. The riots were met with militarised, armoured police. With falling tax revenues, companies took over financing the police, so the police increasingly functioned as capitalism’s own Praetorian Guard; sometimes supporting rival business leaders, sometimes bringing about their demise, and all the while living standards fell and the state started to crumble. For Esme Sedgebrook, growing up in the provinces, there is no future other than an arranged marriage, motherhood, and domesticity, fleeing to join the uprising is as much about personal transformation as it is political.

Some good COVID news ...

Omicron wave in South Africa peaks with no significant uptick in deaths AS REPORTED in the Daily Telegraph, South Africa has announced that the country’s latest coronavirus wave had likely passed its peak without a significant increase in deaths and that restrictions would be eased. The highly contagious omicron variant, which contains a number of mutations, has fuelled an end-of-year global pandemic resurgence. But mounting evidence, including in South Africa, has given rise to hopes it may be less severe than other strains. The government cancelled its 21-month-long curfew ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations. This also means all restrictions on the times alcohol can be sold and consumed are over and the new regulations allow indoor gatherings of up to 1,000 people. This is the first time since March 27, 2020, South Africans are to travel by road overnight or attend all night parties.

And some not so good ...

LFE Film Evenings - closed due to Covid WE REGRET that the current pandemic caused us to close in January, and with the present uncertainty are unable to confirm yet whether we can reopen in February. Hopefully information will be available by late January. You can find out by checking on LFE Noticeboards, the LFE Noticeboard on Facebook, Kirby Muxloe Noticeboards, and both the libraries, or by telephone (0116 239 4983) after 24 January.

Dennis Walker

Feeding your garden birds is more important than ever this winter, says the RSPB

• Birds look to garden feeders as natural food supplies run low • Learn which kitchen scraps and leftovers can be tasty treats for birds • Watching the nature on our doorsteps has been reducing stress

OVER THE events of the past 18 months, we’ve seen how important the natural world is to our mental health and wellbeing. Interest in garden birds and other wildlife has soared, with the number of people using the RSPB’s online bird identification tool shooting up by 95% in 2020. Taking the time to watch which feathered friends make use of your bird table or window feeder, can often help to reduce stress and restore calm. Not only does it benefit humans, but with over 60% of the UK population regularly feeding their garden birds, research suggests that this helps around 196 million birds a year. According to the RSPB, keeping your feeders and water trays topped up is important at this time of year to help your garden birds survive through the winter as natural food sources run low. Providing high-energy food will help your local birds build up the fat reserves they need to keep warm, and as a result your garden could soon become a hive of activity. What’s more, for those without a garden, window feeders can prove just as popular with your feathered friends. Check out the RSPB’s handy guide to making a recycled window feeder from objects found around your home https://twitter.com/ RSPBEngland/status/1247509433724342275 Thankfully, if your bird feed supplies are running low, your cupboards can hold the answer to attracting our feathered friends to your garden. According to the RSPB, fruits like apples and pears, even when they’re past their best, can be snapped up by blackbirds and thrushes, while grated mild cheese can be a fantastic source of energy and protein for a range of birds. Cooked pastry, defrosted peas or unsalted bacon leftovers are also great options, as well as cooked rice, pasta and the inside of potatoes providing a great energy source. With a range of options to help tempt your local birds into your garden, the RSPB is urging people across the country to stock up their feeders and ensure fresh water is available as winter brings the toughest and coldest months for birds. The charity, who have been monitoring trends in garden bird numbers for over 40 years, are on hand to provide top tips on how to attract wildlife to your garden as part of their popular Big Garden Birdwatch survey. To take part in the BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH, which runs from Friday 28 January to Sunday 30 January 2022, visit www. rspb.org.uk/birdwatch or text BIRD to 70030 for your FREE guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips for your birdwatch and RSPB shop voucher.

My dog is like one of the family. And I’m not saying which one.

How to Get Boosted

Every adult needs to get a Covid-19 booster vaccine because two doses does not give you enough protection against catching the Omicron variant.

The NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland has increased its vaccine capacity to support the Omicron Emergency so you can get vaxxed as quickly as possible. There are three ways to get your jab 1. You can book your appointment in advance using the National Booking Service. You can either book online by visiting nhs.uk/covidvaccination or you can call 119. 2. You may be invited by your GP practice. 3. You can go to a walk-in clinic without needing an appointment.

You can find details of the local walk-in vaccination clinics on the website below, including opening times, age eligibility and which doses are on offer. Why you need to get boosted • Scientists are very worried about the arrival of the Omicron variant because of the speed with which it spreads and because two doses of the vaccine do not give us the protection we all need. • Thankfully, a booster jab can restore protection to around 75%. • We don’t yet know how many people will need hospital care because of Omicron, so we need to take rapid steps to give the vaccine to as many people as possible to boost their protection. • It’s vital that you get the life-saving jab as soon as you are eligible so if you have not had your top-up, Get Boosted now. • Everyone can get their booster dose from three months after their second or third primary dose. For walk-in clinics in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, and other local vaccine information, visit leicestercityccg.nhs.uk/coronavirus-vaccine, or scan the QR code opposite.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

A better night’s sleep

The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle

Sleep is an essential and involuntary process that is vital for maintaining good mental and physical health. One in four people are thought to suffer from sleep problems at some point in their lives, both getting to sleep in the first place and staying asleep.

By Matt Cain

Sleep deprivation can affect mood, concentration, judgement and reduce our immune system’s ability to fight off minor ailments such as colds and flu. Furthermore, long-term deprivation can lead to health problems including diabetes, heart disease and clinical depression. Don’t eat too early Eating the minute you get up doesn’t give your body chance to return to ‘full power’. Give yourself at least 30 minutes to come round before tucking into breakfast. Don’t eat too late Eating your main meal earlier can also help with improving sleep. A large meal or latenight snacking or drinking can impact on your digestive system and cause heartburn. Leave at least three hours between having a meal and going to bed. Night light filters Telling you not to look at your phone, tablet or television for hours before bedtime simply isn’t practical. However, your phone or tablet has a blue light filter option and you can schedule that to come on automatically early in the evening. You’ll barely notice the difference on your screen but it will make a difference when you try to get to sleep. Most televisions also have a night-time setting too. Make time to unwind As we rush through each day, balancing a busy lifestyle and juggling commitments, finding time for a rest can feel impossible. However, if the mind has no opportunity to process information from the day, it waits until bedtime to recap. This results in a poor, restless sleep. Try to build rest into your day by meditating or power napping. The 15-minute time out from your day will create that internal chemistry that is just right for sleep. Additionally, deal with worries or a heavy

workload by making a list of things to be tackled the next day. Make your bedroom a sleep haven Create a restful space: your bedroom should be as quiet and dark as possible. Managing technology is very important, as you need a break from TV, computers, emails and mobile phones before going to bed. Without this break, you are over stimulating your mind and it will be unable to find processing time. Set boundaries with technology and keep all gadgets out of the bedroom. Keep a watchful eye on your caffeine and sugar intake Ensuring you eat healthily and minimise sugary snacks is essential for keeping your brain and body contented. Sugar causes the body to run on a higher energy pattern, which creates highs and lows as the quick-fix energy hit wears off. This, in turn, sparks a need for more sugar in the body via drinks and caffeine. Eating little and often and keeping hydrated with water, herbal teas and fruit juices, while minimising your intake of fizzy drinks and caffeine, will help ready mind and body for sleep.

ALBERT ENTWISTLE WAS A POSTMAN. It was one of the few things everyone knew about him. And it was one of the few things he was comfortable with people knowing. 64-year-old Albert Entwistle has been a postie in a quiet town in Northern England for all his life, living alone since the death of his mam 18 years ago. He keeps himself to himself. He always has. But he’s just learned he’ll be forced to retire at his next birthday. With no friends and nothing to look forward to, the lonely future he faces terrifies him. He realises it’s finally time to be honest about who he is. He must learn to ask for what he wants. And he must find the courage to look for the man that, many years ago, he lost - but has never forgotten . . . Join Albert as he sets out to find the long-lost love of his life, and has an unforgettable and completely lifeaffirming adventure on the way . . . This is a love story the likes of which you have never read before!

Glenfield Park WI A HUNDRED Years of Primary Education. This was the title of Michael Dix’s talk to Glenfield Park WI. What did we expect? A boring talk about Educational Policies or could it be something more intriguing. In fact it was a fascinating talk as Michael explained that 5 generations of his family had been teachers, including himself. It all began in the1850s when his great great grandfather, John Harris, was allowed to go to school and became first a pupil teacher and then a teacher and headmaster. Now you might think class sizes are rather on the large size these day but spare a thought for John who taught the juniors of whom there were 200. Needless to say he married a teacher who taught the infants - a mere 100 pupils. Some interesting statistics we were given about the family; there were 28 teachers in the 5 generations and in one generation 8

out of 9 siblings became teachers. In one town they had a road named after them, Dix Road, as the mother, the son and daughter all taught there. Obviously education was in their blood. At one point married women were not allowed to become teachers so it was only the males who could carry the history forward. Michael taught for 17 years and was a headteacher for 18 years but neither of his children has gone into teaching so the remarkable story ends here, which somehow seems a pity. Perhaps future generations will carry the banner forward.

Pam Wilson

Never ask for directions from a starfish.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

TV & Radio Aerials Digital TV Aerials 2 Yr Guarantee Storm Damage Insurance Work Low Signal Specialists Digital Satellites

Free Advice & Quotes Mobile Controlled Vans Multi Point TV Signal Strength Tests Satellite Dish Repair

FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ZANUSSI

BOSCH

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 8kg Load Capacity E Rated 2yr Guarantee

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 7kg Load Capacity D Rated Express Wash

ZWF845B4PW

14 Programmes

WAJ28008GB

15 Programmes

Blomberg

HOTPOINT

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 7Kg Load Capacity 28 Min Fast Full Load 16 Programmes D Rated

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 7kg Load Capacity D Rated 45min Rapid Wash

LWF174310W

NSWE743UWS

White

BOSCH

BEKO

Dishwasher 12 Place Settings 4 Programmes Time Delay Vario Speed F Rated

Tall Freezer Frost Free F Rated 168 Ltr (Net) White H145 W54.5 D59cm

SMS24AW01G

Fitted Kitchens We are pleased to announce that we are now agents for A.W.E Kitchens and Bedrooms Who specialise in Bespoke made to measure kitchen & bedroom furniture Please call in for further details

FCFM1545W

FREE DELIVERY with Personal Service

“Ask About our Same Day/Next Day Installation and Removal Service”

I’m still exhausted from my two-mile jog. And I went on it four months ago.

ANSTEY

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

Why you should do housework

NOW HERE IS a great reason to do some housework: older people who regularly do household chores have better memory and attention spans than those who avoid domestic duties. Not only that, but housework is linked to superior leg strength in people over 65.That means their risk of a fall is reduced. The study, published in BMJ Open, found that a combination of light housework, such as washing up, dusting, making the bed, hanging out laundry, ironing and cooking – and heavy housework, such as window cleaning, changing bedding, vacuuming, washing the floor, and chores involving sawing, repairing or painting, “was associated with higher cognitive function” among older people, who showed up to 14 per cent higher attention span scores than older people who did not do housework.

Leicester City Council invests £900,000 in special needs nursery YOUNG children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will benefit from a city council investment of nearly £900,000 in refurbishing their nursery. Pindar Road specialist day nursery, in New Parks, offers tailored support for up to 34 children with complex needs, from the ages of two to five. It is run by Leicester City Council, and has been rated as outstanding by Ofsted since 2008. Now, the nursery is set to benefit from new facilities in an £895,000 refurbishment programme, organised and approved by the city council, using money from the council’s capital budget. New classrooms and changing facilities will be created, as well as outdoor teaching spaces for each class, creating opportunities for messy play and outdoor learning. The playground area will also be refurbished, and work will be carried out to create a new entrance to the building, staff room and offices.All of the work should be completed by spring 2023. All of the children who use the nursery attend part-time, with many of them also attending mainstream nurseries part-time, so that they get a chance to socialise more widely with other children. The nursery is located on a site that also includes the council’s Early Years Support Centre. This helps staff to assess and plan appropriate care for special needs children from a very early age, helping to ensure they get the most from their educational journey, right from the beginning. More information about the city council’s SEND offer is available at: https://families.leicester.gov.uk/send-local-offer/

Spot the Spot TheDifferences Difference

I Know What You’ve Done

by Dorothy Koomson WHAT IF all your neighbours’ secrets landed in a diary on your doorstep? What if the woman who gave it to you was murdered by one of the people in the diary? What if the police asked if you knew anything? Would you hand over the book of secrets? Or ... would you try to find out what everyone had done? I Know What You’ve Done is the unputdownable thriller from the Queen of the Big Reveal.

Can YOU spot the 10 differences in the cartoons above? Answers are on page 22. Good luck!

READ A GOOD BOOK RECENTLY? TELL OUR READERS ABOUT IT!

It bothers me when I see tax money wasted on signs telling deer where to cross the road.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

St Peter’s Church News ONE OF THE features of modern life is the proliferation of days dedicated to particular phenomena or charities. We all know about Valentine’s Day in February, but hands up if you knew that the week following includes ‘National Love your Pet Day’. Don’t worry if you miss it though, as come August you’ll be able to mark either or both of ‘International Cat Day’ and ‘International Dog Day’. ‘World Budgie Day’ is in March though. #BrewMonday is one of the more recent additions to this genre. As the name might suggest, it’s a day in which we’re encouraged to ‘have a brew’ with someone, to take or make an opportunity to sit down with a friend or neighbour and share a cuppa and catch-up. It’s sponsored by the Samaritans and falls on the third Monday in January – Monday 17 January in 2022 – because that day has also been called ‘Blue Monday’, reputedly the most difficult day of the year. I think it’s clearly going to be a difficult January – as I write this in the week before Christmas, it’s difficult to predict how difficult; Plan B has been activated but we’re not in a lockdown, warnings have been issued about increased spread but the booster programme has gone into overdrive. So I don’t know whether cafés and coffee mornings are going to be possible venues, or whether home visits are recommended, but I do know that we are all going to need that human contact and encouragement, whether it has to be on a park bench with thermoses or over the phone. We all need each other: to pick each other up, to reassure each other that we’re still cared for, still loved, to give each other hope of better days ahead. God made us to be social people – even introverts – and we see in Jesus a pattern of close friendships and the need for company at times.

Do you, or your loved one, experience memory problems?

Come along to sing and have fun with us all

Every first and third Tuesday of the month

at The Hall at St Anne’s Letchworth Road, Leicester, LE3 6FN 10.30am to 12.00pm.

Suggested donation £3-£5 including refreshments For further details please contact Christina on 07752826228 Email: LMMBox2018@gmail.com

www.leicestermusicalmemorybox.co.uk Leicester Musical Memory Box C.I.C. is registered as a Community Interest Company 1146852 (not for profit organization)

GLENFIELD DRAMA GROUP PRESENTS A PANTOMIME FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

So put 17th January in your diary (and World Budgie Day) and book a brew with a friend. Remember we’re not made to be alone and whether you need encouragement or can offer it (or, like most of us, both!) take the day to catch up with someone.

Richard Trethewey

Rector of St Peter’s, Glenfield and All Saints, Newtown Linford.

Tel: 0116 287 1604

Promote your business here every month ... Be in front of thousands of local readers as they find out more about their community

Call Mike today on 0116 287 3122 or email your details to info@glenfieldgazette.com

TO BOOK CALL: 07704 991 334

OR EMAIL: GLENFIELDDRAMAGROUP@OUTLOOK.COM

The average power nap is 20 minutes. This works out well because I can fit 3 of them into one hour.

JANUARY 2022 GLENFIELD GAZETTE • Tel: 0116 287 3122 • Email: info@glenfieldgazette.com

Small changes that can Could you provide a loving home for primary schoolhave a big impact! By Lindzi Mayann ONCE AGAIN we’re shrouded in uncertainty with the continuing pandemic, but that doesn’t mean the world stops turning - or that problems such as sustainability and pollution cease to matter.

THERE ARE now 126 children aged five to nine in care in Leicestershire - up by 15 per cent since 2018. An appeal has been launched to find people who are willing to ‘foster without having to say goodbye’ in Leicestershire. There has been an increase in the need for long-term foster carers for primary school aged children in Leicestershire. More children have entered the care of Leicestershire County Council over the last two years. There are now 126 children aged five to nine in care in the county - up by 15 per cent since 2018.

For 2022, let’s all commit to making at least one change with our environment in mind. The smallest alterations can add up, having significant, positive impacts for our greater communities and world.

•

Just buy less! Do you really need that extra t-shirt or jumper or pair of jeans?

•

Seek sustainable, local labels for fashion. Leicester already boasts some fantastic examples such as ‘Noelle’, which is plastic-free clothing.

It’s time to think “reusable” rather than “recyclable.” Here are some suggestions so we can start together on the right track and really aim for positive change. •

•

Switch from buying bottled water to reusable drinks containers. Switch from pre-packaged fruits and vegetables to picking from the loose selection.

•

Stop buying supermarket bags.

•

The Modern Milkman, which operates around Glenfield, offers a solution providing “convenience with a conscience.” Visit the modernmilkman.co.uk to view their full range of products in plastic free packaging.

•

Quick and cheap fashion has had an incredibly detrimental effect on the environment.

•

This New Year, donate your clothes rather than dumping them.

•

Learn to fix damaged clothes, alter those that don’t fit or upcycle them to give new life.

•

Or even just love them for being used - got a stain or a rip, so what, they’re designed for living!

•

Check out charity shops, before turning to retailers.

•

Swap clothes amongst friendship circles or within family.

aged children needing long term foster families?

•

Did you know boiling your kettle uses a huge amount of energy?

•

Instead of filling it every time, use your cup as a measure so you’re only heating the water you actually need. This will save you money too!

•

Switch TVs off at the wall, rather than leaving them on standby.

•

Choose pump action rather than aerosol sprays.

•

Steer away from lining bins with plastic bags often just a habit and if necessary the bin can be swilled out when emptied.

The above are all designed to get us thinking and hopefully inspire us to make an effort to do something differently for our future. It can feel confusing and even pointless to do anything, but together our actions will help. Let’s start making conscious choices in relation to our impact on the environment. I’d love to share ideas! Feel free to email me with your tips and hacks: Lindzimayann@outlook.com

Out of these, there are 10 children who are waiting for their longterm fostering families, including six-year-old Ricki who loves the outdoors and Sarah, a 10-year-old who loves animals. Long-term fostering means that the child will still remain in care but will be able to stay with their fostering family until they reach adulthood. Their ages vary from four to 14 and some may still have contact with their family. They will, however, have the security of being part of a foster family and a sense of belonging - and the foster cares continue to receive the support from the local authority. Councillor Deborah Taylor, the county council’s cabinet member for children and families, said: “Watching a child grow up becoming more themselves and feel safe and loved with their foster family is wonderful. You don’t have to be an expert to be a great foster parent, just a caring and understanding person, who can offer patience and support. “We need long-term fostering families who can provide love, safety and commitment to a child growing up in care and support them into adulthood. This is ‘fostering without having to say goodbye’ to the child, as they remain in your family. “I would encourage anyone curious about fostering, to come forward and find out how they can make a difference.” Ricki* is in need of a longer-term foster family. He loves riding on his bike and going on nature walks. He likes open spaces where he can run around and feel free to explore. A family who enjoys a walk through a country park or has pets who are good with children would be a great fit for him. Sarah* is 10 years old and loves animals. She is very creative and has recently enjoyed rock climbing lessons which helped her to be more adventurous. Sarah experienced neglect when she lived with her family, but she is now really enjoying being cared for by her fostering family and loves Friday pizza nights. Foster carers don’t need specialist knowledge. Simple things such as knowing who is picking them up from school and having a clean uniform could make such a difference to a child. Many children like Sarah are trying to navigate growing up, find out what they like to do and want to be part of a loving family. Long-term fostering or ‘permanency’ can ensure that these children have a safe, secure and stable home for the longer term. Foster carers must be over the age of 21 and have a spare room in their home. To find out more, visit www.fosteringleicestershire. com or call the Fostering Team for an informal chat on 0116 3050505. *names have been changed to protect their identities.

Did you spot all 10 differences? 1. Fork missing from table, 2. Cereal box, 3. Cats Eyes, 4. Radio Buttons, 5. Sock, 6. Mouth, 7. Newspaper, 8. Bottle, 9. Eyebrow, 10. Table Leg

I’ve reached that age where I still care about my care and looks but they don’t necessarily care about me.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.glenfieldgazette.com

POPULAR

COCKTAILS

a o

enjoys a Mint Julep WordSearch This is your Word007Search!

The Rules of Marriage HERE ARE the real-life answers from a group of children: How do you decide who to marry? No person really decides before they grow up who they’re going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you’re stuck with. – Kirsten, age 10 What is the right age to get married? 23 is the best age because you’ll have known the person FOREVER by then. – Camille, age 10 No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married. – Freddie, age 6 How can a stranger tell if two people are married? You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids. – Derrick, age 8 What do you think your Mum and Dad have in common? Both don’t want any more kids. – Lori, age 8 Is it better to be single or married? It’s better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them. – Anita, age 9

IF YOU can find the names of 18 POPULAR COCKTAILS in the Wordsearch grid above, you could win yourself a meal for two and a bottle of house wine at The Stamford Arms in BELLINI BLOODYMARY Groby.

DAIQUIRI

DARKANDSTORMY

All you have to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line MAITAI MANHATTAN through - the names of 18 cocktail drinks. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked MINTJULEP MOJITO entry forms to: SINGAPORE SLING, Glenfield Gazette, PO NEGRONI OLDFASHIONED Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by FRIDAY 21ST JANUARY 2022. Please remember to fill in your name and SIDECAR TOMCOLLINS address. The sender of the first correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the voucher for a Meal for Two and a Bottle of House Wine at The Stamford Arms, Groby - thanks to the generous sponsorship of Brian Rigby - owner of The Stamford Arms. Words can go in any direction.

Find the word in the puzzle.

Find these 18 COCKTAILS: Words can share letters as they cross over each other.

OLD FASHIONED • NEGRONI • DAIQUIRI • MARGARITA • WHISKEY SOUR MANHATTAN • MOJITO • BLOODY MARY • MOSCOW MULE • DARK AND STORMY 18 of 18 words placed. GIN FIZZ • BELLINI • PINA COLADA • SIDECAR • TOM COLLINS MAI TAI • MINT JULEP • COSMOPOLITAN Name: ..............................................................................................................

What do most people do on a date? Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough. – Lynnette, age 8 On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date. – Martin, age 10 How would you make a marriage work? Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a lorry. – Ricky, age 10

Address: .............................................................................................................

LAST MONTH’S WINNER WAS TREVOR VAUGHAN of Prince Albert Drive, Glenfield Congratulations! Your prize voucher will be sent to you soon!

My wife left me the other day, apparently because I’m too formal. So I sent her a letter of complaint.

START THE NEW YEAR IN STYLE SELL YOUR PROPERTY WITH

CHARNWOOD LIVING HIGH STREET SERVICE AT INTERNET PRICES NO SALE NO FEE

LANDLORDS ARE YOU TIRED OF PAYING HIGH FEES?

CALL US NOW TO SEE HOW MUCH WE CAN SAVE YOU Charnwood Living Ltd - Terms & Conditions Apply

0116 243 0880

www.charnwoodliving.co.uk

17 The Nook | Anstey | Leicester | LE7 7AZ