May 2019 Groby Spotlight Magazine

Hazel retires

Lady Jane Grey School Football Team has made history!

Groby Club’s Treasurer Hazel Ingall has retired - see article on page 4

Election Result

GROBY Number of seats: two Candidate: CARTWRIGHT Martin Brett Party: Liberal Democrat Focus Team Votes: 863 ELECTED Candidate: GRIFFITHS Katharine Ann Party: Labour Party Votes: 209 Candidate: HOLLICK Ted Party: Liberal Democrat Focus Team Votes: 815 ELECTED Candidate: JOBAN Atul Bachoo Party: The Conservative Party Candidate Votes: 505 Candidate: O`SHEA Jenny Party: The Conservative Party Candidate Votes: 652 Candidate: TAYLOR Julia Ann Party: Labour Party Votes: 163 Turnout: 31.72%

FOR THE FIRST time in the 30 years of the school, the football team has made the final of the Leicestershire Schools FA ‘Rice Bowl’ tournament.

The ‘Rice Bowl’ is a prestigious competition. In recent years Leicester City’s Harvey Barnes won it with his primary school in 2009. This year the tournament is being held at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium on Thursday 16th May 2019.

It goes without saying that everyone at Lady Jane Grey is extremely excited and immensely proud of our team. Lady Jane Grey has never progressed through the first stage of this competition—let alone make the final. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 ...>

THE LOVELY recent sunshine has invigorated our community choir, Groby Sings*, and rehearsals are really hotting up for the summer concert theme, Groby Sings On The Beach.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Summer Holiday in the South Pacific or maybe a Day Trip to Bangor, the choir will be sure to have you Walking on Sunshine and in the mood for some Fun, Fun, Fun! Those are just a few clues to whet your appetite for the next offering from our talented choir. As always, an afternoon or evening of great entertainment is promised, with lots of laughter and a chance to sing along to some well-known summer numbers.

Get your tickets early as they always sell like hot cakes (or should it be cold ice-creams this time?).

Performances: Saturday 29th June, 7.00pm and Sunday 30th June, 3.00pm Venue: Brookvale Groby Learning Campus (Groby College) Tickets: £5 each Available from Choir Members from Monday 13th May and Chaplin’s Butchers, Groby, from Tuesday 4th June. (Opening hours Tues, Weds, Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm, Fri, Sat 9.00am – 4.00pm) For enquiries, you can contact us via our website www.grobysings.org (not the College, please). *Groby Sings is a Registered Charity no. 1180490.

NEXT ISSUE OUT ON 15TH JUNE- ARTICLES & ADVERT DEADLINE: 1ST JUNE

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

LJG reach final of Rice Bowl From page 1 The Captain and Vice-Captain have written about their team’s journey so far: ‘OUR JOURNEY TO THE KING POWER’ The LJG Year 5/6 A-team have been competing in the Rice Bowl Cup which schools throughout Leicestershire have taken part in. This is the only nine a-side football cup of the year.

Our school has been extremely successful during this tournament. We have broken school records making it all the way to the semi-finals. Our games have been tough but we have fought through them with our amazing team spirit and determination The first match of our Rice Bowl journey was against Humberstone which we played at home and won 2-1.

Humberstone scored first but not long after vice-captain James Harwood Equalized with an easy finish into the bottom corner. Later on in the game James struck again with a fantastic goal coming from a corner and rebounding of an unlucky Humberstone defender.

In the second round we played against Parks and won 3-1.

James scored one with a silky skill past the keeper and easy tap into the back of the net. Right back Maxwell Wright scored a spectacular goal from outside the box. Then came a little head in by William Thompson coming from a free kick by our captain William Dempsey.

For the quarter-final we played against Willesley and won 2-1. The first goal was by William Dempsey, a pass back from Murphy Cadle and thundering finish by the A-team Captain.

Later on in the game we sealed it with another goal scored by Vice-Captain James, taking it past the keeper and finishing it off with a simple finish. Later Willesley scored but not enough the win the match.

Our next match, the quarter final, was against Pastures.

LJG played with team spirit and determination as we knew that the next game was at the King Power Stadium! Early in the first half, James Harwood pretty much took the ball past the whole team to score the opening goal. Pastures then equalised, making the score 1-1. We then re-took the lead with a bullet header from our star winger Tyce. He was on fire! Pastures very quickly equalised then scored another, however, it was ruled out as off-side. The first half finished 2-2.

A very hard second half followed with both teams fighting for victory. After several attempts trying to score, it was finally the last minute of the match with it remaining 2-2 when Tyce Njika scored an amazing goal to win the semi-final! The whistle blew and the whole team piled onto Tyce. This is it— we’re off to play at King Power on Thursday 16th May and the whole school is invited. Our dreams to play on the Leicester City pitch have come true.’

By Football Captain William Dempsey, Vice-Captain James Harwood

Friends of the Charnwood Forest

Talk on Stoneywell Cottage ON THE 15th April at the Woodhouse Eaves village hall The Friends of the Charnwood Forest had a talk on Stoneywell Cottage, and, in particular, its gardens.

Mr Roy Mitchell started the story of Stonewell’s history with a list of personalities and some statistics.

Apparently the Cottage came into existance when, through an arrangement with a local farmer, the land was exchanged for a farm house designed and built by the Gimsons. Later an adjoining patch of wood was purchased.

The Gimson family were part of the Arts and Crafts movement which was a reaction to the industry of Victorian Britain.

The orginal setting of the Cottage was intended to be wild, although a few trees were planted and paths were landscaped. It was intended as a summer retreat only (plus Christmas), which is as well as the pantry regularly flooded in winter. In the 1950’s Donald Gimson and his family used it as a full-time residence. He and his wife were keen gardeners; she kept meticulous notes on the garden.

By 2013 it had become too much for him, and control passed to the National Trust. It seems that this transfer was somewhat irregular financially.

The talk finished with a series of pictures taken though the year which showed some of the garden’s floral highlights. Incidentally, with the help of those notes, the garden is maintained by 200 volunteers.

Dr. D. McNeil

The Chantry Choir presents

Music and Memories Saturday 8 June 2019 7.00 pm Ratby Methodist Church 31 Station Road, Ratby LE6 0JQ

Admission £8 including refreshments Tickets: 0116 2874042 Supporting ‘ONE ROOF LEICESTER’

Glenfield Millennium Green

Come and join us for this year’s Garden Party A lovely way to spend the afternoon - in the garden if it is warm, if not there’s plenty of room inside.

60 Overdale Avenue Glenfield LE3 8GP

Saturday 8th June. 3 pm – 5pm. £4 entry - includes free refreshments and entry in to the raffle. Accompanied children free.

Charity Reg. No. 107 5162

www.glenfieldmillenniumgreen.org

Don’t forget to send your news!

Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Groby Neighbourhood Watch

Vehicle Break-ins: Sunday 31st March 2019

AS REPORTED in last month’s Spotlight (page 2) there were a number of cars broken into in the early hours of 23rd February and the early hours of 31st March.

In relation to the thefts that occurred on 31st March a suspect was detained.

At a hearing on 1st April, 2019 at Leicester Magistrates Court, Luke Timothy Foley pleaded guilty to the following charges: 1 Theft from a motor vehicle – 31.03.2019 2 Theft from a motor vehicle – 31.03.2019 3 Theft from a motor vehicle – 18.03.2019 Luke Timothy Foley was sentenced to 8 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months.

The Defendant was also given a 12 month Community Order. This means that he will have to: • Participate in 5 days of specified rehabilitation activities • Attend a drug rehabilitation programme for 6 months Failure to comply with any part of the Community Order will result in the case being referred back to court.

The case is now concluded. It is possible for Luke Timothy Foley to appeal against the sentence. If this happens it will be dealt with by the Crown Court. There are however, few appeals against sentence and an offender has to let the court and prosecution know within 21 days if they are going to appeal

Martin Cartwright

Chairman Groby Neighbourhood Watch

Today I have been sober for 100 days. Not, like, in a row or anything. Just in total.

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JANUARY Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Letter Concern about lost trees and climate change

I SAW THE recent ‘Climate Change - The Facts’ programme by David Attenborough and he was right - people are cutting down trees to build houses, and not replacing the trees in other areas to protect us from greenhouse gases.

I have seen dozens of trees being ripped out locally, and all across Leicestershire trees are going. Watching the programme highlighted the problem.

So can Groby set a example and plant trees elsewhere and ask the contractors pay for it to be done?

Dean Spencer A sister from a local convent became a certified accountant to help small shop owners manage their finances better.

The title of her firm? ‘Nun of Your Business.’

Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God

Scout Hall, Stamford St. Glenfield

Bible at 6pm (God Willing) Groby Club Treasurer Hazel Retires Talks Each Sunday THE Officers, Committee, Staff and Members would like to thank Hazel for all of her hard work and dedication to the Club over the many years!

Feb 03 The Truth about the Devil Feb 10

“Crucified with Christ” – What Does it Mean?

Feb 17 God created the world for a purpose

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Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God

Bible Talks

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The Holy Scriptures... are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus..

2 Timothy 3:15

Hazel first joined the Committee in Feb 24 The Inspiration of the Bible 2004 as she took on the position of Assistant Secretary, Hazel was the first www.lifes-big-questions.org www.thisisyourbible.com/glenfield person to hold this role. Hazel then took on the role of Club Treasurer Glenfield Christadelphians from 2011 and has been in this position until she retired this year.

MARCH Many of the people in the village and Club know how hard Hazel Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God worked and the hours that she put in to keep the Club finance strong Bible Scout Hall, Stamford St. Glenfield alongside the Committee.

Everything that Hazel has done for Talks Each Sunday at 6pm (God Willing) the Club has been professional. Hazel Holy has always given the Club a lot of The Committee (left to right, front): Sue Pagett (Room BookingThe Secretary), Apr 07 I’m a Good Person - Why do I Need God? are advice and knowledge.

Ross Mee (Auditor), Hazel Ingall (Club Treasurer), NathanScriptures...

Clarke (Club to make Pagett (Club Hazel’s expertise in the Club business Assistant Secretary), Richard Woods, (Club President), Eddieable Apr 14 God’s to Tim YouRussell (Committee). thee wise unto ViceInvitation President), will be missed but we are very keen to salvation keep the exceptional standard up and Left to right, back): Jackie Masson Maria Woods (Club Why Christians meet to (Committee), Share Bread and through faith Apr 21 with the Committee we have at present Secretary), Wine Mitzi Guiney (Assistant Gaming Secretary). which is in Christ - we are sure to do this and we know Jesus.. that Hazel has a lot of confidence in us.

Apr 28 The Man who Died with Jesus 2 Timothy 3:15 Hazel, just on behalf of The Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, the Committee would like to thank you for your support www.lifes-big-questions.org and commitment to the Club and we do hope that you enjoy your retirement! www.thisisyourbible.com/glenfield Thanks Hazel Glenfield Christadelphians Regards

The Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club

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Scout Hall, Stamford St. Glenfield Each Sunday at 6pm (God Willing)

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Jun 02 The Bible's Great Courtroom Drama The Important Promise God made to Jun 09 Abraham Jun 16 The Challenge of Evil Jun 23 The Politics of the Kingdom of God Jun 30 Bible Teaching on the Man of Sin www.lifes-big-questions.org

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

LETTER

Churches Together for Justice

Playing Our Part in the Global Community

Litter spoiling the village

WHATEVER your views are about what is happening around I AM WRITING to express my the world at the concern about the littering moment, one thing is pollution at Groby Village clear: the world gets Hall. ‘smaller’ every day.

I am concerned about littering We are affected by the because items such as coffee cups, actions of people on plastic bags, crisps package, and the opposite side of the soft drinks cans are ruining our world, just as they are environment. affected by the way we Litter is a problem that takes away live. the beauty from our village, and when it decomposes it lets out toxic gasses that hurts the environment.

WHY DID THE COUNCIL TAKE AWAY THE RUBBISH BINS FROM THE VILLAGE HALL? This might be one of the reason people are throwing their rubbish on the ground in the car park.

To solve this problem is simple - people should stop littering and take their rubbish home with them.

People still aren’t putting their litter in the bins so they just throw it on the ground. I hope that people can relate to what I am saying and stop polluting and littering our village.

Mina Rodgers

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Tea Picker in Kenya

Surely then the onus is on us to make choices that will have a positive impact on our earth and the people who live on it? World Fair Trade Day was celebrated on the 10th May. Each time you go shopping you have the opportunity to buy fairly traded goods and positively affect somebody’s life. In this we are very fortunate to be served in Groby and the surrounding villages by the Co-op.

The Co-op has a long history of supporting Fairtrade and developing their own-brand fairly traded goods.

When did you last check where your groceries came from? By buying fairlytraded goods locally you can have a positive impact on communities in Ghana, Kenya, India, Colombia, Guatemala, Malawi, Belize, the Dominican Republic and Ethiopia.

The way we shop has a big impact on our planet – plastic packaging and food miles are other issues to take into account. As we grapple with these issues life can get very complicated. Buying Fair Trade is a simple decision which is guaranteed to have a positive impact.

Ruth Mwenya

I do 300 pull ups a day. I need to buy a belt for my pants.

rt o p up ers s e as vertis e l P ad n! a c r ou f you i

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Why does the Groby Street Fair charge for admission?

IT’S A QUESTION that’s raised from time to time. Some visitors don’t like to have to pay for entry, and others sometimes ask to go in and check before they pay.

Although the road is closed for the Fair it didn’t stop one motorist asking for the barrier to be removed so he could drive to the end and back to see whether it was worth him paying the admission charge!

Despite rising costs this year sees the first change since the £1 entry fee was introduced in 2012. For the 2019 Fair on Sunday, June 23, it will be still be £1, but only children under five will be free. It’s the admission charge, together with the pitch hire fees, that form the major part of the income needed to finance the Fair, and these can sometimes be supplemented by sponsorship or grants. Traders and organisations booking pitches are now asked to pay a little more.

This year the organisers faced a dilemma – the bank balance brought forward from last year was insufficient to guarantee the viability of the event. Although it would be reasonable to assume that as long as the overall income covered the costs there should be no problem, this is, unfortunately, not the case. As soon as the administrative arrangements get under way the bills start to come in. The bills have to be paid up front, but a large part of the income doesn’t materialise until the admission gates open on the day of the Fair. This year Groby Parish Council has made a contribution to the costs and this has enabled the bills to be paid enabling the Fair to go ahead.

In past years there has been sufficient working capital available from previous events to enable the Fair get on with the preparations. But over the last few years unexpected events have affected income. Some visitors have managed to by-pass the ‘pay station’ and last year the event coincided with an England match in the World Cup championship.

If the event was run by professionals and had to generate profits the £1 admission charge would be significantly higher, as all the administration and organisation would generate a hefty wages bill. Instead this work is done by a small team of volunteers who are supplemented on the day by anyone they can persuade to help out. The Fair may only last 5 hours but the preparations start in the winter. On the day of the event the organising committee meet at 6am to start a 12 hour day. This makes £1 for an entertaining day out sound even better value than a visit to Poundland.

If you can spare some time to volunteer for even as little as an hour or two your help would be greatly appreciated.

Ring 0116 287 6724 and speak to Christine.

Norman Griffiths

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

2019 Lord Lieutenant’s Award for Young People FIVE students from Brookvale Groby Learning Campus, were nominated for a Lord Lieutenant’s Award for Young People,and were congratulated and presented with their certificates on Thursday 4th April by the Senior Leadership Team.

Congratulations go to: • Sam Mason, Year 10 (MWO) - received a commendation certificate for the ‘Young Braveheart of the Year’ category, and was nominated by his father.

• Lincoln Herbert, Year 10 (MWO) - received a FINALIST confirmation for the ‘Young Volunteer of the Year’ category, and was nominated by Team Troupers Dance Academy CIC. • Lucy Marlow, Year 11 (GNE) - received a commendation certificate for the ‘Young Braveheart of the Year’ category, and was nominated by her Tutor, Ms Newman.

• Emily Scott, Year 12 (MLO) - received a commendation certificate for the ‘Young Artist of the Year’ category, and was nominated by her Art Teacher; Miss Law. • Madison Hancock, Year 13 (JBR) - received a commendation certificate for the ‘Young Braveheart of the Year’ category, and was nominated by her mother.

WELL DONE TO ALL FIVE NOMINEES! As a category finalist for the ‘Young Volunteer of the Year’ category, Lincoln Herbert will be attending the forthcoming Awards Evening and Celebration Dinner. The overall Lord Lieutenant’s Young Person of the Year Award, will be chosen from the category winners, and presented with a special trophy. Good luck Lincoln!

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

County Councillor’s Report from Ozzy O’shea Permissive Footpath Groby I HAVE been contacted by residents reporting damage to the fencing along the footpath that runs from the Ivanhoe Trail to Sacheverell Way, Groby.

I contacted Savills who are responsible for maintenance of the fence and the footpath who agreed to look into it.

On Thursday 2nd May I was contacted by another resident who reported to me that he had come across a horse that was tangled in the wire and part of the fence.

The resident also contacted the RSPCA and I called the owner who attended and released the horse before the RSPCA arrived.

The resident informed me that the RSPCA will be making enquiries and will follow up regarding the care of the horses.

Groby Community Kitchen GROBY Community Kitchen Cook and Chat Operate on Friday Morning Between 10am and 12 noon at Groby Community Centre.

It’s back after the Easter and May Bank Holiday breaks. Jenny has worked with Borough Council officers, to keep this session going in Groby. This is an excellent facility which she hopes to expand to craft and chat mornings.

Please come along and give it your support as we don’t want to lose it. Remember these sessions are all free and available to all sections of the community young and old. So come along on a Friday to Groby Community Centre, Forest Rise, Groby between 10am and 12noon These sessions operate during the school term time only. So if you are at a loose end, come along and enjoy other people’s company. All the ingredients are provided free as is the tea and coffee. If you do not want to cook please come along and have a chat and a cuppa and support this Community Project.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET SCAMMED? You can make an online report via Action Fraud by visiting www. actionfraud.police.uk.

You can also report to them via telephone on 0300 123 2040.

Telephone Preference Service Scam

Fake Virgin Media Emails

Leicestershire Trading Standards have received a report that local residents are being telephoned by an organisation claiming that their registration on the Telephone Preference Service needs to be renewed and asking for payment details.

FRAUDSTERS are sending fake Virgin Media emails threatening “automatic disconnection”.

The Telephone Preference Service is a FREE SERVICE and is the official central register on which residents can record they do not wish to receive unsolicited sales or marketing calls.

To register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) residents can call the registration line on 0345 070 0707 or visit www. tpsonline.org.uk.

Alternatively, they can also register by writing to Telephone Preference Service, DMA House, 70 Margaret Street, London, W1W 8SS.Trading Standards want to remind residents not to give out any personal or financial information over the phone even if they are told this is to prevent then becoming a victim of scam or receiving unwanted calls.

Action Fraud has received over 100 reports about fake emails that purport to be from Virgin Media.

The emails threaten the recipient with “automatic disconnection” due to “invalid billing information”. The links in the emails lead to genuinelooking phishing websites that are designed to steal your Virgin Media account login details.

Don’t click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails, and never respond to messages that ask for your personal or financial details.

For more information on how to stay secure online, visit www. cyberaware.gov.uk Finally I would like to thank you all for your continued support and remind you that should you need my help or advice, I always pride myself on making myself available to residents. Remember I am only a phone call or email away.

Ozzy O’shea Always Working for you Cllr Ozzy O’shea Tel 0116 2394336 Mobile 07808585825 Email ozzy.o’shea@leics.gov.uk Email ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

Tel: 0116 239 4336 Mobile: 07808 585825 Email ozzy.o’shea@leics.gov.uk or ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

You just realized that your age is the number of times you went around the sun.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Raising funds (

London Marathon, then a 100 mile bike ride!

GROBY RESIDENT Wendy Griffin has taken on a double challenge, to raise money for the charities Breast Cancer Care and The Air Ambulance Service.

On Sunday 28th April she ran the London Marathon, in a time of 4 hours 26 minutes and, just two weeks later, on Sunday 12th May she is participating in the Birmingham and Midlands Velo 100 mile cycle ride.

Wendy was attended by the local air ambulance, in June 2018, when she was knocked off her cycle during the bike leg of a triathlon race and felt that doing this challenge was a good way to thank them.

Breast Cancer Care is another charity close to Wendy’s heart.

Donations to the charities can be made via the link https:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ fundraiser-display/showROFun draiserPage?userUrl=griffin-1192367 -xyz&pageUrl=1 Wendy thanks everyone for their support!

Bali Rai visits Brookvale ON FRIDAY 29th March, a large number of Year 7 students at Brookvale Groby Learning Campus, had the pleasure of having an award winning author come into school to deliver a creative writing workshop.

All pupils were fully engaged throughout the sessions and used the allocated time towards the end of the session to engage with Bali Rai further.

Year 7 student Rosie Jackson wrote: When Bali Rai came to our school to talk to us, l thought that it was really interesting, because he actually wrote books all about children our age. As a class, we thought that he had a good sense of humour and he knew a lot about our local area because he lives in Leicester.

This all took place in the Brookvale Library and we had a display set out for him with his books on and he read a few lines from each of his books.

He talked us through how to create our own piece of creative writing, which was really good.

Later on we asked him lots of questions and he made his answers funny.

He said that he didn’t have a favourite book because he had read far too many to choose from.

Bali Rai seemed to make writing interesting by basing his books about children that are exactly like us! We would, with no doubt, like to see him again.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Why did the Romans use Groby slate for roofing?

THERE ARE some villages you can visit that appear to have changed little over the years.

Their buildings tell their story.

Groby isn’t one of them. The Old Hall sends a signal that here is a village with a history, but there are few obvious signs of Groby’s agricultural and quarrying background or of a Roman connection. The disused railway line down to the quarry is somewhat overgrown, the tunnel under Ratby Road has been filled and the track has become a pleasant footpath.

The village centre quarry area is now an industrial estate and a recreation field.

Those interested in exploring the history of the village may already be familiar with the books published by village historian David Ramsey.

David’s research into the Leicestershire Slate industry from Roman times has been published by the Leicestershire Industrial History Society (The Society’s Bulletin 18). In A4 format it is beautifully illustrated with colour photographs. Mention Leicestershire slate and Swithland immediately comes to mind.

David’s research, however, suggests that the Romans found a more convenient source in the Groby area, as he explains : “The route ways across the large, mainly wooded waste area which we now call Charnwood Forest would have been narrow and limited some 1900 years ago. Whilst it would have been possible to move slates in panniers on ponies from the Swithland area, the slate that was exposed at that time would have been difficult to exploit, due to access and well removed from the principal area of use in Roman Leicester. The closer and more logical choice is the outcrop of slate which rises in the northwest corner of the parish of Groby. This area, with thin soil over stone, appears to have always supported very few

trees, unlike the Swithland area which was densely wooded with much of the ground criss-crossed with exposed roots.” Groby, he believes, was well placed to serve Roman Leicester, and further afield, with both granite and slate from a single source. A large quarry near the Islamic Centre near Markfield is now almost completely grassed over. “The floor of the quarry remains almost level and would have enabled carts to be drawn up to the working face – a feature of early stone extraction where lifting upwards out of pits was avoided.”

David has found dozens of the familiar ‘diamond’ shaped Roman roofing slates on the surface close to the rim of the quarry.

complete and this is an attempt, after four years’ research, to record all the known relevant facts, diagrams and photographs and at the same time put right previous misconceptions.”

Discussing his sources he explains that for the first time since they were moved from Bradgate House, the Earl of Stamford’s estate papers and account books directly concerning the management of the Estate of over 11,000 acres have been examined. Information relating to the early quarrying activities and the first Groby Railway 1831 -1847. has come mainly from the Stamford papers, an unpublished extract from

a book of personal observations made by Charles B. Martin in 1879 and the Leicester & Swannington directors’ minutes.

The Groby Granite Company registered in August 1865 has been treated as a separate undertaking, responsible for reinstating the railway by laying new track and purchasing the first steam locomotive in 1870.

For the latter venture the Company minute books 1877 - 1899 have provided the principal portion of the source material.

“Nothing previously written about the Company or the railways has been accepted as fact unless verification was available from existing records. Conversations have obviously figured prominently in my research as I never saw the railway operational, or with the track in position. I have asked many questions of those who worked in the quarries during the years of steam, and later, in an endeavour to piece together a mental picture of the workings of the quarry and transport systems. However, unless the related facts fitted documentary evidence or other material, these have not been recorded.”

This isn’t, however, just an economic history of quarrying and the railways. The book also

David’s photo shows clearly how the Roman slates have had the shoulders modified by medieval masons rather than using them, “as found”. He believes that the Roman Groby slate quarries may have ceased operation late in the 4th century but the prepared roof slates left behind must have been numerous. They have been traced to the medieval Bradgate (Ferrers Lodge 2016 - to the left of the ruins) and Castle Hill (2016/17) excavations.

New edition of Groby and Its Railways LAST YEAR a revised edition of his popular book “Groby and Its Railways” was published. Now in an A4 format it is easier to read, and it is better suited to show the many photographs and plans which illustrate the text.

“It is not intended that the book should appear to be a definitive history of Groby Granite Co. Ltd, or of the Groby railways that conveyed the stone to the Leicester & Swannington Railway, later to become part of the Midland Railway,” David explains in his introduction. “The records which would give an overall picture of the early extractive operations by the Earl of Stamford and the later public company are far from

My favourite part of church is when the pass around the basket of free money.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Norman Griffiths explains brings to life the social history of the village, reflecting on pay, hardships and accidents. The disparities often reported now between management and workers were also apparent a century ago. At a time when quarry workers were being paid less than £50 a year for a 56 hour week in 1895 the manager is reported to have received an annual bonus of £50, around £6000 at current prices. Workers were not paid for religious holidays, and holidays with pay were not introduced until 1939.

Although the level of accidents was low quarries were not safe places for trespassers, who if discovered found that the company operated its own form of summary jurisdiction. Fines were handed out with the threat of action in the Magistrates Court if they weren’t paid, though the records show that at least some of the fines were donated to good causes.

As a threat of prosecution could put one’s future employment at risk the fines were generally paid promptly.

David’s books can be purchased from Leicestershire Industrial History Society through their website www.lihs.org.uk and will also be available on their stall at Glenfield Tunnel on their Open Days this summer. The Tunnel tours will be available for 4 weekends in July and 3 weekends in September. All places on tours must be booked in advance either by telephone to 0116-2415153 or by email to lihsvisitgt@ virginmedia.com.

11

Groby Pool at the beginning of May SPRING IS HERE! As I write this at the beginning of May the temperature tonight is forecast to drop to 2 degrees and I need to cover up all the flowers and vegetables I rashly planted out in the April miniheatwave.

Five baby Greylag geese have hatched out at Groby Pool to face strong winds and waves but they seem to be doing well. Their parents are fiercely protective, hissing at anyone, human or avian, who gets too close.

Mallards seem to have a different approach to parenthood, with just the female caring for the young. The largest brood last year was eight strong, but this Spring one proud mother has hatched ten babies. I followed her along the bank as she took them on an expedition from the feeding area to the overflow, hoping to be able to photograph them all together, but neither mother duck nor I had any chance of keeping track of so many skittish youngsters.

No sign of any cygnets yet. Igor, the dominant male swan is having a tough time as six adult swans have moved into his territory. I have seen him chase off one or two interlopers in the past but he is clearly outnumbered here.

He makes half-hearted attempts to keep them away from the feeding area but he knows when he’s beaten. I didn’t know a swan could look depressed. I haven’t seen his mate Lucrecia for several weeks. I hope this is because she is tucked away in the reeds incubating eggs, but I am a little concerned about her.

Another cause for concern is the numbers of people I meet wandering around the meadow area looking in vain for Groby Pool. First time visitors arriving in the car park would really appreciate a sign post.

Lindy Hardcastle STOP PRESS: Lucrecia has had her babies! Four of them. I have pictures of them and a rather splendid one of a Barnacle Goose - the first I’ve seen at the Pool.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Brookvale U14 & U15 Boys Field Head: Football Teams crowned Team Taxation Leicestershire County Champions! without representation?

WHEN NOMINATIONS closed for the recent Parish Council election there were fewer candidates than there were seats available. There was no need for an election as the candidates were returned uncontested.

Two of the vacancies were in respect of the Field Head ward and this means that, although the residents of that area continue to pay their Council Tax, there is no-one specifically representing their particular needs.

In practice this may not concern the residents as they can take issues up with any councillor or the Parish Clerk. Residents often feel, however, that there is something reassuring about speaking to a member who has declared that they will represent a particular part of the Parish to the best of their abilities and may even live there.

If you feel that you would like to take up this role, the Parish Clerk would be pleased to hear from you. Alixe will explain how you can be co-opted and can fill one of the empty seats. Just call on 0116 287 6985 or email parishclerk@groby.com .

Norman Griffiths

ON FRIDAY 5th April, Brookvale Groby’s Year 9 and Year 10 Boys Football Teams were both crowned Team Leicestershire County Champions at Harborough Town FC.

Brookvale Groby Boys Year 9 Football Team (pictured right) have now won this trophy for three consecutive years, which is a fantastic achievement.

Kyle McAdam opened the scoring for the Year 9’s against Wigston Academy direct from a free-kick near halfway. Wigston hit back and equalised on the stroke of half-time, before Ryan Bush secured a 2-1 victory with a superb first time strike into the top corner.

Brookvale Groby Boys Year 10 Football Team (pictured right) had a bad start conceding two goals in the opening quarter. They managed to claw themselves back into the game when Harry Laundon got on the end of a Sam Collins free kick to score, but conceded again straight from the kick-off. This left them with a 3-1 deficit to overcome at half-time. Tino Msipa started the fight back, getting on the end of Luis Parry’s long clearance to head over the goal keeper.

Josh Barrett scored the equaliser with a bizarre goal.

Another Luis Parry clearance bounced onto the crossbar, twice, falling into Josh’s path allowing him to volley home. It was all Groby now with Jenson Gutteridge and Tino Msipa hitting the bar before Mac Williams had the last word with a far post header from a corner.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

13

Let’s Walk Groby - celebrating 10 years of health walks ON THURSDAY 23rd April 2009 a group of 8 walkers led by Hazel Hickson set out from the Village Hall on the first of what turned out to be over 500 Let’s Walk Groby health walks.

On April 11th 2019 over 60 past and present walkers helped to celebrate the 10th anniversary with a lovely carvery meal at the Abbey Sports and Social Club on Slater Street. It was great that so many people turned up to meet friends old and new - and a guest appearance by Hazel too.

Over the 10 years nearly 200 people have joined us on our weekly walk hour long walks - including the Mayor of Hinckley and Bosworth. You may well have seen a large group of us walking round the village on a Thursday morning and we regularly attract over 30 walkers for our easy and sociable walks.

The group is noted for being very friendly and companionable and has helped many village residents to enjoy a healthy walk where they can make new friends and get to know the village better We walk in all weathers apart from snow and ice and, once a month, venture further afield eg Abbey Park, Bradgate Park, Aylestone Meadows and other places of interest. We regularly offer shorter, slower walks for those not quite up to the longer ones.

All of our leisurely walks are marshalled by a group of trained volunteer walk leaders. After a walk we usually return to the Village Hall to socialise and have refreshments put on by the Churches Together Fair Cuppa team.

Let’s Walk Groby is part of a national scheme organised by the Ramblers and supported by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council. We offer a free health walk starting every Thursday at 10 am from the Village Hall. If you would like to join us then come down to the Village Hall or, if you want further information, email grobyhealthwalk@gmail.com We rely on a small and diminishing team of walk leaders and really need more volunteers to be able to continue delivering our popular walks. If you are interested in helping out by becoming a walk leader you would be most welcome. Training is available and support by the group is readily given.

Contact as above.

John Alton

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

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Groby Brownies visit Groby Juniors FC “It’s like a scene from the film Zulu!” is what Ant said to me as 25 Brownies came into view, all running across the football field towards us with water bottles in hand and excited smiles on faces.

Ant and I are the coaches of the Groby Juniors Under-8 Vixen Girls football team and we had been invited to run a training session for the village’s Brownies.

We had our training plan, we had prepared the training pitch and had the bibs and training balls all ready in neat lines, and we were enjoying the peace before we were met by the view of 25 excited youngsters marauding towards us.

All went well though, they turned out to be friendly. We had a warm up session followed by a few games of stuck in the mud (with a ball), and Bulldog (with a ball), 1,2,3, Ouch (with a ball) and then we split them up in to their sixes (Pixies, Gnomes, Elves and Leprechauns) and had two pitches of 6-a-side games running between the sixes. After every goal was the best goal celebration Ant and I had ever seen with flips, cartwheels and more excited running about. We had a chat about who supports which teams and how they are doing. After an hour of fun and games (with a ball), they made their slow retreat back over the field. Happy but tired.

Ant and I send our thanks to the Brownie Leaders and Brownies for letting us spend an hour with them sharing our passion for football. Our highest regards go out to those brave Brownie leaders for coping with that level of enthusiasm from 25 young girls every week.

Paul Chick, Groby Juniors U8 Vixens.

Letter Thank You Groby

International Call Up for Sam Collins BROOKVALE Groby’s Year 10 student Sam Collins, has played football for Nottingham Forest academy since the age of seven.

He was very proud to have received an international call up for the Under 16 Men’s Wales Squad for a tournament in Bulgaria recently, where the team were due to play Bulgaria, Northern Ireland and Luxembourg.

A great week of football for Sam, as Brookvale Groby Team also won the County Cup!

Letter

Dog exercising idea: an alternative location to consider?

WE HAVE recently moved to Groby and have found the area to be a warm and welcoming place with complete strangers greeting us in the street with a cheery ‘hello’ and a smile. It is also amazing the amount of well maintained wonderful amenity parks that are in the area.

The 30.75% turnout was greater than expected particularly in view of the erratic weather, glorious sunshine was followed by hailstones and heavy rain resulting in soggy voters and water-logged chocolate biscuits!

It was good to have the opportunity to speak with so many who wished us well.

Polls closed at 10-00pm but counting at the Hinckley Leisure Centre went on past dawn, a very long day (and night). The result was worth the wait with the Lib Dems regaining control of the Borough Council with 21 seats, Conservatives 11 and Labour 2.

Sincere thanks to the Presiding Officers and staff at the Village Hall, the Returning Officer and the hard working counting staff at the leisure centre who worked through the night. Grateful thanks also to the band of volunteers who delivered our leaflets and those who displayed posters.

At the beginning of a new 4 year term can I take the opportunity to once again thank you for your support and remind you that I am contactable by the usual methods; email, landline and mobile. (Pigeon post unpredictable)

In particular there is a delightful small park at the back of our house, where my son takes much pleasure in kicking his ball around and shooting at the purpose built goalposts, and occasionally taking a pot at the basketball hoop. This park was obviously designed with small children in mind, where parents can relax in the knowledge children cannot stray far in such an enclosed area. Dogs are allowed on the park, but must be controlled, creating a safe environment for all.

Hence I was alarmed to read John Dodds letter concerning turning this little park (Off Flaxfield Close) into a designated training and exercise park for dogs.

May I suggest an alternative solution by using the much larger parks near Sacheverell Way. An area could be fenced off, like a children’s play area, for the use of dogs and dog parents. Activities such as training and exercising dogs could be performed and even a permanent dog agility course could be built.

This would also help with the containment of dog mess, because although I find dog parents very conscientious in clearing up, there is no doubt a trace is left on the grass, not good for little children or for that matter big children.

I was a dog parent myself for many years, and will be again in the future, always being diligent in picking up dog poo. I do understand the need for dogs and dog parents to exercise for a healthy life. We all need to be let off the leash sometimes.

So please save our little park from ‘ Going to the Dogs’.

This would be a more satisfying solution for all.

Councillor Ted Hollick

Kevin Godrich

I would like to record my personal thanks to all residents who exercised their right to vote on Thursday May the 2nd whether they voted for me or not, but particular thanks to the 815 who did.

Ward Member

Not to get technical ... but according to chemistry - Alcohol is a solution

16

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Groby & Field Head Spotlight PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics.

LE67 9ZT

Telephone

01530-244069 Email us at: info@ grobyspotlight.co.uk Visit the website at www.grobyspotlight.co.uk 3,500 copies distributed 11 times a year (no issue in July) to homes and businesses in Groby, Field Head and The Brantings.

Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head. Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press.

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

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

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

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

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

All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight.

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

NEXT ISSUE OUT ON: 15th June 2019 DEADLINE: 1st June 2019

Groby Community Library News New Chairman of Trustees We have a new Chairman of the Groby Community Library Trustees, David Robinson was unanimously elected by the Trustees on April 12th. John Martin is the new Vice Chairman. The remainder of the Trustees are Christine Fowler, Janet Harrison, Roz Smith and Sue Yates.

Easter Activities Were pleased to say that we had more than the usual number of visitors to the Library and the Café over the Easter holidays.

The marvellous sunshine we had, meant that lots of families could go on the Great Groby Nature Hunt. This was a lovely way to see nature up close and take time to really notice what is all around us.

Of course everybody who took part in the nature hunt was rewarded with an Easter egg.

Another construction session for children was held on 17th April . Over 25 children took part in this activity and built some amazing models. This is obviously a popular event and we intend to run more of these sessions in the school holidays .

Matt Beighton, a children’s author came to read some of his work on Wednesday 24th April. The children were enthralled and Matt sold plenty of his own books but also donated a few copies to the Library. Again this activity was a great success with young and old This was our busiest day ever in the Café! Over 80 people came in to the Library that day.

From the Great Groby Nature Hunt and the Children’s Tombola we raised a total of £100. Thanks everyone for taking part and also raising money to help keep us going.

Parish Meeting We hosted the annual Parish meeting on the 30th April. This is an opportunity for all village groups and organisations to come together to report their activities and meet with the Chairman of the Parish Council.

Events in May It is Deaf Awareness week 6th -12th May. We shall be running a Craft session for children during the Spring Break 27-31st May. Do look out for the date of another construction session; remember this activity is designed to test your fingers and brains.

Hire of Library space If you would like to hire the Library for meeting or a group activity we can seat 24 and have six tables. There is also a fully accessible toilet with baby changing facilities. Do get in touch if you’re interested. Information is available at the Library desk.

Dr. Janet Harrison, Trustee, Groby Community Library

Bradgate Rotary raises £2,000 for local libraries BRADGATE Rotary has raised £2000 over the past year for Groby, Markfield, Ratby and Anstey libraries, all of which are community-managed.

The Rotary club, based in Groby and covering several other villages in the area, organise various fund-raising events and activities to help support local charities.

A cheque for £500 was presented by Bradgate Rotary president Roy Cafferty (second from right in the photo) to volunteers and trustees of Markfield Library. This sum has financed the library’s sensory garden.

Bradgate Rotary meets for breakfast at the Stamford Arms in Groby on the first three Wednesdays of every month. New members are always welcome.

For more information about the club, contact bradgaterotary @gmail.com; or phone Roy Cafferty on 07817523518.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

All the latest news from Groby WI ON 15TH APRIL a group of us went to see Captain Corelli’s Mandolin at Curve.

I think there were mixed reactions from our group, but personally I thoroughly enjoyed the performance and the effects used in the production were stunning.

Our President, Angela, had her birthday on the day of our April meeting and she was serenaded with a rousing chorus of Happy Birthday by members which I’m sure made her day!

The speaker was Tom Phillips from Hannah’s Chocolates and he gave us a very interesting insight to the history of the chocolate making industry. The cocoa beans are generally grown on a narrow belt either side of the Equator, preferring a humid, tropical climate. The fruit grows directly from the trunk of the tree and looks like a small melon. Each pod contains between 20 to 50 beans which are a milky colour. The early Victorians used to just boil the beans to make a type of hot chocolate drink but probably not like the Cadbury’s hot chocolate, complete with marshmallows and whipped cream, that we have come to know and love!

Today the beans are dried, either mechanically or just left in the sun, and then shipped all over the world to the various chocolatiers and chocolate factories to be roasted.

At this stage, although they will smell nice and chocolatey, they will taste quite bitter. The beans are squeezed to extract cocoa liquor and cocoa butter. What remains is ground to a fine powder, mixed with the extracted juice and then sugar, milk powder and vanilla are also added. This is a greatly simplified precis of the chocolate making process I’m sure! In 1875 the first milk chocolate bar was produced in Switzerland and in 1930 the first white chocolate came on the market. There is now

The Overdue Life of Amy Byler

by Kelly Harms

Tom Phillips from Hannah’s Chocolates was the speaker in April ruby chocolate available which is made from red pods containing pink beans which are dried but not roasted and taste slightly fruity. Tom had bought samples of these for us to try.

Next came the best part of his talk, a demonstration of making an Easter egg, the prize in our raffle for one lucky lady, and individual chocolates which we able to sample at the end. Tom explained the method of tempering chocolate by adding chocolate drops containing a chrystal to the liquid chocolate until the mixture is down to about 32 degrees.

Tempering ensures that the chocolate is smooth, glossy and even coloured and produces a crisp ‘snap’ when broken. It prevents the grayish colour and waxy texture that occurs when the cocoa fat separates out. Whilst he was explaining the different processes, he was constantly working - pouring chocolate into moulds, marbelling dark and white chocolate, putting the moulds in and out the fridge, making a decorative rose from modelling chocolate mixed with liquid glucose and making bows for his finished egg. You will see from the photograph how beautiful the finished product was , he made it look so easy! The individual

OVERWORKED and underappreciated, single mom Amy Byler needs a break.

The finished Easter Egg chocolates were absolutely delicious and I think most of the members bought some of the Easter bunnies, eggs and even chocolate footballs that he had for sale.

Tom explained that he and his partner start making Easter products in January and everything is totally handmade. They also make vegan eggs using rice milk and diabetic chocolate eggs. It was a really interesting evening not to mention tasty and a vote of thanks was given by Lyn Mellor.

Ruth Rolinson

Saying world wide web is shorter than saying www.

So when the guilt-ridden husband who abandoned her shows up and offers to take care of their kids for the summer, she accepts his offer and escapes rural Pennsylvania for New York City.

Usually grounded and mild mannered, Amy finally lets her hair down in the city that never sleeps.

She discovers a life filled with culture, sophistication, and—with a little encouragement from her friends—a few blind dates. When one man in particular makes quick work of Amy’s heart, she risks losing herself completely in the unexpected escape, and as the summer comes to an end, Amy realizes too late that she must make an impossible decision: stay in this exciting new chapter of her life, or return to the life she left behind.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

National Trust Leicester Association News WITH THE acquisition of Stoneywell Cottage at the end of 2012 most people forgot that the National Trust had owned a building in Leicestershire since 1954.

That building was Staunton Harold Church near Ashby de la Zouch which was gifted to the Trust by the 12th Lord Ferrers when he put the rest of the estate up for sale.

Staunton Harold Church was built between 1653 and 1655, in the Gothic style, by Sir Robert Shirley (1629 – 1656) and is one of the very few churches built during the Commonwealth period. It is also one of the least modernised churches of its time and today is much as it would have been in Sir Robert’s day.

Being built in the Gothic style symbolised continuity with the old church and the design is consciously medieval. Over the west doorway there is an outspoken inscription in recognition of Sir Robert’s strong beliefs, and his opposition to the Puritans.

Most of the internal fittings are original. These include double rows of oak box pews in the nave, oak panelling lining the walls and facing the columns and a magnificent Jacobean screen supporting the organ loft. The organ itself predates the church and is one of the oldest English-built instruments still in its original condition.

Overhead, on the ceiling, a wonderful abstract version of The Creation, in swirls of blue, black and white, is dated 1655. The puritans would have regarded both the ceiling and the fixed altar in the chancel as idolatrous. Because of this building and other acts of defiance Sir Robert died in the Tower of London aged 27.

There are also two later additions to the church. Firstly an ornate wrought-iron screen added in the early 1700’s and a magnificent marble tomb to Robert Shirley’s great-grandson who died in 1714.

Following 350 years of deterioration, in 2014 the National Trust embarked on a major restoration of the church. This has included work to the stonework, the windows and the roof and also the later Victorian kneelers.

From 1st June to 1st September the church will be open every Wednesday to Sunday from 1.00 to 4.30pm. Parking is on the Staunton Harold Estate carpark for which there is a charge.

For details of the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 2229133.

Alan Tyler, Publicity Officer

19

Art Competition

Get your paintbrushes out!

RATBY IS holding an Art Competition entitled ‘An Artists View of late Victorian and Edwardian Ratby’ which is being sponsored by Michael Ball on behalf of The Ratby History Research Group.

It is open to all artists 18 years of age or older, and you don’t have to live in Ratby to enter.

Seven images of Ratby are on display in Ratby Library and artists can choose to submit any number of their own interpretations of these scenes in whichever medium and size they prefer.

Copy your choice/s from the display using the Library photocopier, take them home and let work commence.

Full details of the competition and entry forms are available to pick-up from Ratby Library.

The display of work and presentation takes place in Ratby Library on Saturday 3rd August between 10am and 1pm.

Getting two copies?

IT HAS come to my attention that some residents have been receiving two copies of the magazine through their letterbox.

If this happens, please contact me by email or phone and I’ll sort the problem out with the relevant deliverer for your area.

Phone 01530 244069 or email: info@grobyspotlight. co.uk

Mike Wilkinson

If you are stalking me, I only have one question: Where did I put my keys?

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Letter from Uncle Eustace Beware the summer strawberry tea My dear Nephew Darren NEVER, ever feel aggrieved that your summer strawberry tea has to be held in the church hall rather than on a lawn, since there is hardly a single blade of grass to be found in your entire parish.

You have no idea of the potential calamities you are avoiding.

Here, during the previous week, the organisers will be desperately asking the opinion of local farmers about the weather. In doing so, they forget that for the farming community, it is always the wrong sort of weather anyway. I once received a heartfelt plea from the staff at Heathrow Airport for our ladies to stop calling them at hourly intervals to find out if hurricanes may be imminent.

Naturally, the day will start out warm and sunny and so all the tables will be arranged on the vicarage lawn.

By 10am, tablecloths will have been laid. By 10.10am, a brisk breeze will have sprung up and someone will be delegated to retrieve them all from deep within the nettle patch.

By 11am, clouds will gather, and a decision will be made to transfer everything into the church hall. Once that is completed, just when it is almost too late to change, the sun will re-emerge and there will be a frantic dash to put everything back on the lawn. This ensures that by 2pm when

teas start, the ladies will already be in a state of collapse.

Last year, the Dowager Duchess of Trilby graced us with her presence.

As she sat with her entourage, elegantly sipping tea under a giant parasol over the table, the thing – equally elegantly – closed around her, leaving her looking like one of those unfortunate insects trapped by a carnivorous plant. To emerge from its depths looking entirely unflustered was beyond even her social skills.

Fortunately, attention was diverted from her predicament by the wife of one of our farmers. This substantial lady had been sitting in a chair with slightly too thin legs for the damp lawn. The rear two slowly sank into the grass, eventually catapulting the dear lady backwards into the lap of the local mayor. Disentangling red flannelette from mayoral chains took some time, and delicacy.

At least when I have had enough, the lawn can be cleared in minutes by drawing the raffle. The moment the last plastic shower cap and set of Christmas doilies has been awarded, there will be a dash to get home, giving my dog the opportunity to retrieve remnants of cream cakes from the flower beds.

Your loving uncle,

15 Ratby Road, Groby: Planning appeal dismissed IN NOVEMBER 2017 Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council refused to grant planning permission for a change of use of premises at 15 Ratby Road from retail shop to referral veterinary clinic.

An appeal was made under section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 against the refusal.

On 8 May the Planning Inspectorate announced their decision. For the reasons given in the decision document, and having regard to all other matters raised, the Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State concluded that the appeal should be dismissed.

The full decision can be read on Grobyonline.tk or downloaded from the the Planning Inspectorate website.

Eustace

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Groby Surgery Patients Group Newsletter NHS 111 service available online SOMETIMES you urgently need healthcare, but feel it is not a serious or life-threatening emergency.

Calling NHS 111 is always available to give you advice about what to do and whether or not you need to see a medical professional. This service is now available online and, depending on the situation, the NHS 111 team can connect you to a nurse, emergency dentist or even a GP, and can arrange face-to-face appointments if they think you need one. NHS 111 advisers can also assess if you need an ambulance and send one immediately. If you have difficulties communicating or hearing, you can call 18001 111 on a textphone, or use the NHS 111 British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter service if you’re deaf and want to use the phone service.

By calling NHS 111, either by phone or online, you can access the urgent care services you need. It’s free and patients who need it will be supported by an expanded team of clinicians.

With your consent, information on your past care and needs will be shared so that the team dealing with your care know you as a patient, and your experience is improved.

The process is straightforward: 1.You will be asked a number of questions, so they understand your needs.

2.If, when you have explained your needs, they feel you need to talk to a nurse, a doctor, a pharmacist, someone from the mental health or social care service or another health professional - you will be directly and quickly passed through to a new service called the Clinical Navigation Hub – where the people who provide clinical support are there to help.

3.They will either offer you advice and guidance to care for your condition yourself or refer you to the right service and care that best suits you – they might arrange a home visit, or they might make an appointment for you at a walk-in clinic or primary care hub. Whatever the face-to-face care and treatment you receive, it will be the most suitable one for you.

4.If your problem is considered to be a 999 emergency then an ambulance will be dispatched immediately.

Many people aren’t aware that you should contact NHS 111 for help with a mental health crisis, as well as for urgent physical care needs.

They can refer to mental health support services as well as other healthcare services, again often

being able to make immediate appointments for you and can help you and your loved ones get the care you need.

So, if you are feeling unwell or have an accident, at any time of day or night, call 111 or go online to 111.nhs.uk to get the right help, whatever your health needs and whatever the time of day or night.

dehydrated • smoke The NHS website has a tool to check if you’re at risk of VTE and find out the simple things you can do to reduce your risk. (www.nhs.uk/conditions/ blood-clots)

Are you at risk of blood clots?

A RELATIVELY new preventative device called the geko has been featured in the press recently.

ONE OF the conditions that the NHS suggest you act urgently and ring 111 is if you think you have a blood clot.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition where a blood clot forms in a vein. The most common, and the one most people have heard of, is the deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a leg vein. A blood clot in the lungs is called pulmonary embolism (PE).

The chance of developing them increases if you’re immobile and unwell or need surgery.

Symptoms include: • throbbing or cramping pain, swelling, redness and warmth in a leg or arm • sudden breathlessness, sharp chest pain (may be worse when you breathe in) and a cough or coughing up blood.

Blood clots can be life threatening if not treated quickly. Call 999 or go to A&E if you’re struggling to breathe or someone has passed out. This could be a blood clot in the lungs which needs to be treated immediately.

Things you can do to help avoid clots If you’re at a high risk of blood clots – for example, you’re in hospital – follow the advice of your care team about preventing clots. This may involve wearing stockings that improve your blood flow or taking medicine to reduce the risk of clots (anticoagulants).

Do this ...

• stay active – even just taking regular walks can help • drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration – you’re more likely to get a clot if you’re dehydrated • try to lose weight if you’re overweight • wear flight stockings or flight socks to improve your blood flow on long flights – a pharmacist can advise you about this Don’t do this ...

• sit for long periods without moving, if you can avoid it • drink lots of alcohol – this can make you

The geko

It’s designed to increase blood flow to the deep veins of the legs and is approved for NHS use.

The size of a wrist watch and worn at the knee, the battery powered, daily disposable geko™ device gently stimulates the common peroneal nerve activating the calf and foot muscle pumps, resulting in increased blood flow in the deep veins of the calf. The action of the device is said to be equivalent of about 60 per cent of walking, but the patient does not have to move.

Dr Indira Natarajan, a consultant stroke physician and clinical director of neurosciences at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, has conducted an in-hospital study to estimate the effectiveness the device. His study of 219 patients fitted with the geko found no evidence of blood clots within three months of discharge. This compared with 11 cases of blood clots in 463 people prescribed intermittent pneumatic compression(IPC), the standard treatment recommended for preventing blood clots.

“It’s like a half wrist-watch which fits round the outside of the knee joint,” he said. “It produces an electrical impulse down the leg and the intensity can be increased or decreased by a plus or minus switch.” It is estimated that the use of the geko generates a saving of £237 per patient (based on nine days of geko treatment).

Norman Griffiths

for Groby Surgery Patients Participation Group

For our chemistry exam we had to write 1000 words on acid. Unfortunately for me my pen turned into a gorilla and the floor started melting.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Latest news from Groby Allotments Open Day WE HELD OUR Open Day on 28th April at our Ratby Road site to showcase our plots to Groby Residents, let people see what we get up to on the allotments and as a general social get-together to raise some funds for our Society.

Whilst we didn’t have the lovely sunny weather of the previous Easter Weekend, it stayed dry and we even saw a bit of sun during the day and we had a good turnout. Our main attraction was a talk from a composting expert, Rod Weston, who showed us how to turn some heaps of grass cuttings, rhubarb leaves, hard woody stems, comfrey leaves etc. kindly donated by some of our member, into lovely compost to grow bigger and better plants.

I say “us” but I was too busy manning the stalls to hear what he said, so I shall be going down to the Stokes Wood Allotments on Sunday 5th May, as part of the Composting Awareness Week, (I hope you are all now compost -aware!) where he is giving another talk and hear what he has to say.

We were very lucky in that many local businesses generously gave some lovely prizes for our Tombola, which was amazing! We would therefore like to publicly give our very grateful thanks to: Bradgate Stores, Chaplin’s Butchers, Central Co-Op, Leicester Road, Co-Op stores, Laundon Way, Druck Ltd, Groby Fish Bar, Groby Post Office, Pricegate, the Stamford Arms public house and Wilson’s Convenience Stores for their generosity and help in making our day such a great success! We are also very grateful to our members who also donated some lovely prizes for the Tombola and helped us make a good profit on the day. Thank you all.

There was also a plant stall, with masses of vegetable and companion plants to buy and quite a few people will now be tenderly caring for them, waiting for the cold weather to subside before planting them out; a produce stall with freshly cut rhubarb as well as a variety of cakes, jams and pickled beetroot for sale; a bric-a-brac stall and pre-loved garden tools.

We had guided tours of the allotments, which was enjoyed by villagers who had previously only looked over the hedge and were amazed by how large and varied the Ratby Road site was. We also had demonstrations of Water Divining, and a chance to have a go with the rods. Some people were amazed that they had the ‘knack’ too! I have no idea how it works but the rods cross over when I walk over a land drain and then swing apart again when I walk past the source, so I’m a believer!

You could also make a ‘seed bomb’. They looked like truffles made of compost and flour and coated in wildflower seeds, so great to throw in your garden and transform a small area into a wildflower and bee-friendly meadow. Do let us have any of your photos of minimeadows please!

As all that activity made us hungry and thirsty, there were bacon butties or veggie flan and hot drinks in the morning and tea and cakes in the afternoon on offer, and I think everyone who came, enjoyed their day. A big thank you for supporting us and helping us to raise funds for our Society, helping to keep our plot rents low and so affordable to all, whilst raising funds to allow us to continue to maintain our allotment sites! Thank you all.

Open Shed Sunday If you missed all that excitement, then you are very welcome to join us on our usual Open Shed Sunday, normally on the first Sunday of every month, but this time on 19th May, due to the clash with the early May Bank Holiday and the closeness of our Open day to the beginning of the month. A good time for a ‘nosh and natter’ for a couple of hours from 10am to 12 noon! We won’t have the headline composting talk, water divining or seed bomb making but we will be launching our Sunflower Growing Competition. Last year our winner grew a gigantic sunflower over 3 metres (9ft) high, which drew comparisons to Jack and the Beanstalk! This year, our winners Steve and Chris, have donated some seed from their winning plant for us to use in this year’s competition, so if you are up for a challenge, do come and get a pack! See if you can beat the record!

Carol Lincoln

My driver’s side window stopped working, so I’m probably gonna starve to death.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Annual Parish Meeting at Groby Community Library

Updates from local community groups THE ANNUAL Parish Meeting was held at Groby Community Library on Tuesday 30 April.

This is not a meeting of the Parish Council, more a meeting with the Parish Council. With tea and biscuits it's less formal than the regular monthly meetings and is well suited to the relaxed atmosphere of Groby Library, with no physical separation of the residents and members who are able to attend. Residents generally only attend in large numbers if there is some issue of great contention that they want to discuss.

There have been issues through the year which have been raised by members of the public at regular Parish Council meetings, but the fact that they were not raised at the Parish Meeting perhaps reflects some satisfaction with the way in which the Members have responded. The Chairman urged anyone who wishes to complain about any aspect of the Council's work to make contact with either the Clerk or a member of the Council rather than complain through social media, as members cannot respond to such complaints. After reports from the Parish Council residents and local community groups had the chance to raise concerns or give updates on their activities..

Druck parking One issue which has been causing concern for some residents is the question of parking and the proposals put forward by Druck to reduce the impact of their increasing staff numbers.

This was raised by one resident who was seeking reassurance that there would be an impact study to consider the effect of the proposals and consultation if

firm plans were put forward. In response to a request from Druck the Council has offered parking, not for a permanent solution but a temporary trial period, on some recreational car parks. Cllr Brian Rigby (Chairman) assured the questioner that if a firm proposal was made by the company it wouldn't be implemented without proper consultation.

Library Finances The Treasurer of the the Community Library Trust outlined the challenges the charity faces as the financial support from the County Council reduces further over the next 2 years. Although there have been successes in applying for grants these tended to be designed to support specific projects. Whilst these are very helpful the need is for a regular, reliable, sustainable income to cover the running costs of the library. The Trust has few resources with which to generate revenue income. Book sales and room hire

play a very small part compared with the potential of the sales at the Time Out Cafe and special events and activities.

Informed promotion is going to be very important in maximising the potential from these sources, but additional trustees are needed to help. Someone with a background or interest in marketing would be a great asset, so if you can help in any way you would be made very welcome.

Groby Street Fair A spokesperson highlighted that the Fair has around 2000 visitors, so is a great opportunity for outreach in the village by local organisations.

As discussed in another article in this edition the admission fee is a key element in funding the next Street Fair. This year the fair will be held on Sunday 23 June from 11am to 4pm.

Bradgate Rotary A spokesperson reported on the £500 donation to each of the

community libraries in the area and a larger donation to Loros.

The Bradgate calendar was a great success, with all the proceeds going to the Bradgate Park Trust. If you are interested in joining, there are regular breakfast meetings at the Stamford Arms.

The CIC meadow The drainage ditch has been completed and Severn Trent Water has cleared the culvert under the A50. The risk of flooding on the village side of the A50 should now be significantly reduced.

Heritage Warden Alison Coates said that she was available to give talks and interested groups should get in touch with her.

Allotments An update was given on the planning application for a screened storage facility on the Ratby Road site which will help the Allotment Society to generate income. A resident thanked the Society's volunteers for taking the substantial administrative cost of running the allotments away from the Parish Council, and Council Tax payers.

Churches in Groby Rev Ed Bampton spoke of the work done in the village by the two churches. When asked about the proposal to re-order the church and remove pews he said the church wanted to be more available for community use, as this was currently quite limited. He felt this could be done sympathetically without any adverse impact on those parts of the church that are most valued in their present form.

Getting approval for such changes is a long drawn out process and discussions continue.

Norman Griffiths

I just saw a baby wearing a t-shirt that said “Just did 9 months in solitary confinement.”

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

14 Marathons in a fortnight!

A GROBY MAN has performed a remarkable fundraising feat by running 14 marathons in 14 days.

Laurance O’shea known as Loz lives in Groby with his wife Leila and his two son’s Laurance and Kyle.

Loz is known as a joker, he was featured in January’s Spotlight after walking around Groby and Ratby on Christmas day dressed as a storm trooper.

He has also visited local schools dressed up as a Storm Trooper bringing smiles to many local children.

On World Book Day this year he attended Lady Jane Grey School dressed as a Storm Trooper accompanied with his fun loving mum Jenny O’shea dressed as a Ewok.

Loz is a keen runner and runs most days. During his father Ozzy’s Mayoral year, he ran 622 miles in 22 days raising over £1500 towards Ozzy’s charity that year.

On the 27th March 2019, Loz started his latest challenge running 14 marathons in 14 days raising money for an Autism charity. Like anything he takes on he completed his challenge running his last Marathon in a Spiderman’s suit finishing at Leicester Cathedral on the afternoon of the 10th April.

We are all extremely proud of him, as is his employer who have donated £100 for each marathon totalling £1400.

Loz Says “I enjoy running and I wanted to raise as much money as I can for Autism as it is very close to my heart.”

You can still donate just follow this link. https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiserportal/fundraiserPage?pageId=1027887

Letter

The Archery Big Weekend: 19th May

Thank you to Henson Brothers I WONDER if I might use your pages to say a big Thank You to the Henson Brothers of Rookery Lane, whose garage will have closed down by the time this is published.

Paul and Michael have been servicing our cars for many years and have always done an excellent job. There were always the extra touches like delivering the car back to our driveway afterwards, or doing a small repair and saying “We’ll add the bill to your next service” - though I’m sure they never did!

It is wonderful to find a garage that you can trust not to overcharge you or do unnecessary work, and we always felt that we could trust Henson’s on both counts. So much so that when we moved away from Groby to live in Wanlip over two years ago, we continued to book the annual services with them, despite it meaning a bus journey into town and back out again after dropping off the car.

They will be sadly missed, but are fully deserving of their retirement, and so we would like to wish them both a long and happy one.

Alan & Caroline Bloor

(Wanlip, formerly of Leicester Road Groby)

Glenfield Millennium Green This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND

25th

Don’t forget to send us your news.

Email info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Ozzy O’shea

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My satnav just says “follow your heart”.

HAVE YOU ever wanted to have a try at archery but never quite got around to it? Now’s your chance!

Kirby Muxloe Archery Club is taking part in a national event called ‘The Big Weekend’. Come and have a go any time between 11.00 am to 3.30 pm on Sunday 19th May. In addition to being good fun and sociable, archery has many physical and mental benefits. It strengthens your upper body, improves co-ordination, balance and concentration and improves your maths skills as you keep score!

Archery is one of the few sports that is inclusive to everyone, as all ages and abilities/disabilities can participate. Kirby members range from 9 to 80 years and we cater for those for whom shooting is a weekly relaxation or family evening out, through to those who aspire to shoot competitively.

The Big Weekend takes place at Kirby Muxloe Sports and Village Club, Ratby Lane, Kirby Muxloe, LE9 2AQ. Cost is £1 for 6 arrows.

Those of you aged 8 and up will be able to have a go, shooting at various targets, and you may even win a prize!

If you require any further information please contact the club secretary: secretary@k-m-a-c.org

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Borough Councillors’ Report from Martin & Ted Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council Election Thursday 2 May 2019, Borough Council election results Number of seats in Groby: two Candidate: CARTWRIGHT Martin Brett Party: Liberal Democrat Votes: 863 ELECTED Candidate: GRIFFITHS Katharine Ann Party: Labour Party Votes: 209 Candidate: HOLLICK Ted Party: Liberal Democrat Votes: 815 ELECTED Candidate: JOBAN Atul Bachoo Party: The Conservative Party Candidate Votes: 505 Candidate: O`SHEA Jenny Party: The Conservative Party Candidate Votes: 652 Candidate: TAYLOR Julia Ann Party: Labour Party Votes: 163 Turnout: 31.72% Elected Groby Councillors: Cllr Martin Cartwright Cllr Ted Hollick Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council is now run and controlled by the Liberal Democrat Party Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council results (34 seats) Party: Liberal Democrat - 21 seats Party: Conservative - 11 seats Party: Labour - 2 seats Thank you to everyone that voted for Ted and myself thus giving us a new four year term of office at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council but this time around as part of the administration.

I am particularly pleased to be back in order to have the opportunity to continue with the projects that I have been working on such as a solution for the Klondyke issues which includes Groby Pool Car Park, and answers to the construction of the road at the Martinshaw Development plus the treatment of the surrounding residents by the Borough Council during the construction process.

Election Campaign I would like to thank all the volunteers that proof-read my leaflets, stuffed envelops with letters and delivered the various campaign leaflets, I could not have done it without your help, thank you.

As a candidate the election campaign for me this time around was very different in embracing technology and completing a video address accessible by a 3D QR Barcode rather than having to type in a web address making it far

Martin Cartwright Call: 0116 2874500 Mobile: 07850 707050

E-Mail: hbbc@appliancehome.co.uk Write to: Maverick House 10 Pine Tree Avenue, Groby, LE6 0EQ

easier to use.

I had no idea what to expect in so far as how many views it might receive as a result. In this the views far outstripped what I thought it would achieve. At the close of the polls 10pm on May 2nd the amount of times the video was viewed had reached 815 views.

If you have viewed the video I thank you for doing so. It may seem that it was easy to complete but this was not the case.

The video was four minutes long yet took over 8 hours to complete as it is practically impossible to gain 30 seconds of video in the village during daytime without someone or something being in the frame which meant that part had to be filmed again.

So many funny things happened during filming. I have therefore created Bloopers, Take 2 video that can be accessed by the QR Code Below: A light hearted look into the shooting of the video.

Please take a look at the various out-takes during filming.

QR Code: Election Bloopers, Take 2

If you cannot access it through the QR code or unsure how to do so then please type Martin Cartwright into youtube Or access it by typing the web address: https://youtu.be/ cii95Sr3vic I am sure you will find the Bloopers video interesting: You can still view the original election campaign video at: https:// youtu.be/nzE_h8X5gMo

Ted Hollick Call: 0116 287 5955 Mobile: 07962 373983 E-mail: ted.hollick@outlook.com Write: 7 Shaw Wood Close, Groby, LE6 0FY

Parish Council Election Congratulations to the members elected to Groby Parish Council.

This was an uncontested election as three seats in the Field Head ward remain vacant following the election. I would hope that these will be filled at the earliest possible opportunity by co-option especially as a couple of people have expressed an interest in being co-opted.

I would also hope that someone from Field Head will come forward to fill the vacancy as Field Head has absolutely no representation on Groby Parish Council now as a result of the May 2nd Election.

I am sure the Parish council will be advertising in the Spotlight for three member seats to be filled in due course. Alternatively please contact the Clerk at Groby Parish Council

Music in the Mead 2019 – Free Concerts A new season of free concerts will take place in the bandstand in Argents Mead, Hinckley this summer. The programme includes five new performers, including 30 members of the Stanley Opera Company and steel pan band Impact Steel who will bring a taste of the Caribbean to the Mead.

Popular male harmony group 4th Avenue also return following their stunning performance last year, which saw the biggest audience in the event’s history.

Ian Daniels, Chair of the Hinckley Town Centre Partnership said “This looks like a great summer lineup, it’s nice to see so many new performers listed as well as some old favourites. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Why not bring a picnic and enjoy an afternoon of free entertainment.”

All the performances take place on Saturday afternoons, 1pm – 3pm and there will be a short interval in the middle. Dates and performers are as follows:

• 25 May - Out of Gas will perform popular covers from the sixties to the present • 8 June - The Stanley Opera Company. 30 members of the company, soloists and chorus, will perform music from musical theatre and opera • 22 June - Prime, a five-piece band will perform classic soul and rock covers • 6 July - All or Nothing will perform classic rock music • 27 July - Ella-May will perform a range of contemporary pop covers • 3 August - JT & The Rhythm Boys perform a range of sixties classics • 17 August - Male harmony group 4th Avenue return to the Mead following their record-breaking show last year. Danny, Adam, Dougie and Tom will perform their version of iconic songs. The Midlands answer to The Overtones!

• 31 August - Sam Southall returns to the Mead to perform a range of pop covers • 14 September – Impact Steel Band bring a taste of the Caribbean to the Mead with a wide range of music from calypso, classical, pop, reggae and jazz. All played with the sultry, enigmatic, captivating sounds of the Steel pans.

Check the council website www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/ musicinthemead or local press for more detailed information about the performances nearer the time.

I am here to help you Should you have any comments or problems you would like us to mention in our articles please get in touch.

Please remember if we can ever be of service to you or your family please do not hesitate to contact us, our contact details are listed above.

Kind regards

Cllr Martin Cartwright Date for your diary

Family Fun Day in Charnwood Forest BRADGATE Rotary is organising a special Family Fun Day, including a Fun Run, on Sunday 15th September.

This event will take place at a beautiful Charnwood location with stunning views across the forest.

As well as the Fun Run, there will be a variety of other attractions on offer - something for everyone.

More information will be published nearer the time.

For each action, there is an equal & opposite reaction, plus a social media overreaction.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Letter Car parking ON READING the front page in the April issue, I see Druck’s suggestions for trying to solve the parking issues in the village.

Well maybe they could start by getting staff to use the quarry site parking. I walk my dog past this site every day and of the 36 parking spaces there, the most I have seen used is just 6 - meaning that 30 are left empty every day.

If these spaces are allocated to Druck staff, why are they not being used?

I also used to clean at Druck a few years ago, and at that time, if you worked through an agency you could not park on site. I do not know if this policy has changed since then but this does not help the village parking problems.

I live in Victoria cottages and every day we have up to 5 cars parked here by Druck staff.

P. Brudenell

Plant Hunters’ Fair on Saturday 8th June LAST YEAR’S Plant Hunters’ Fair at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park was a great success with hundreds of garden lovers enjoying this lovely venue and the chance to choose from thousands of plants all lovingly grown by the specialist nurseries.

The event will be returning on Saturday 8th June. The fair runs on Saturday 8th June from 10am4pm. Plant fair entry is £1 and there is P&D parking.

For full details of nurseries attending see www. planthuntersfairs.co.uk Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre & Country Park, Sutton Cheney, Nuneaton CV13 0AD.

27

Groby Gardening Society News March Meeting THE MARCH meeting was one of our occasional interactive evenings.

Being held just before Easter, the meeting comprised an Easter bonnet competition when members were invited to use their imagination to decorate a bonnet on the theme of Easter, and a variation on last year’s beetle drive, this time being a topical Easter Bunny drive.

The competition had been announced at the March meeting, and word of mouth helped to remind members.

A total of seventeen bonnets were produced on the day, and put on display so that voting slips could be completed by those present to decide the three best entries. The bonnets were displayed anonymously, so the process was all very democratic! The photos show the variety of entries, with chicks and flowers in abundance, and the winners wearing their masterpieces. The winning bonnet was made by Liz Emerson, with Molly Matson’s in second place, and Helen Box’s in third place.

While the votes were being counted, the Easter Bunny drive competition took place, in good humour and occasionally descending into the same chaos as last year’s beetle drive. Purely a game of chance, depending largely on your ability to roll a dice (the quicker the better!) and to draw a bunny face depending on the number thrown.

It was all good fun, and after three rounds the highest score was recorded by Beryl Judd.

Magnificent prizes – chocolate based, of course - were awarded to the winners. For the record, my own attempt at an Easter bonnet maintained the UK’s Eurovision Song Contest tradition of “nul points”!

• OUR MONTHLY MEETINGS are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of each month in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill, Groby.

Entry is £2 for non-members (an annual subscription is just £15), and you’ll be sure of a warm welcome, along with a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit!

The June meeting takes the form of our annual evening visit, this year to Crossfell House in Great Dalby, with numbers strictly limited to 40.

The meeting for July 11 will be Celia Sanger giving a talk entitled “Echoes from the past”.

Keith Poole

My boss told me to have a good day. So I went home.

28

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Spotlight Small Ads • Enigma WHEELCHAIR - nearly new.

Price: £50 o.n.o.

• Emmelle Cougar RACING BIKE 18 gears, with helmet. Price: £50 o.n.o.

Tel: 01530 243660 (Markfield) • BLACK SUIT, ideal for prom. Worn only once. Size 81cm/32inch waist regular length. Price £40.

• RACLETTE, hardly used, great for healthy eating, still boxed. Price £25.

• EXERCISE STEPPER with additional arm exercisers, measures steps, distance, calories etc. Price £15.

• POKEMON cards, assorted. Price £5.

• WENDY HOUSE, including curtains and floor tiles. Will need taking apart and reassembling to move. £80.

Tel: 07977 309387 (Markfield) • Roberts PORTABLE RADIO. Price: £5 • Windsor Atco 14” electric cylinder LAWN MOWER. Self propelled with speed control in superb condition Price: £50.

• Electric PANEL HEATER - 2KW Temperature and timer controlled size L84CM X H43CM X D6CM. Hardly used condition. Price: £10 Tel: 01530 231515 (Bagworth)

• Complete set of ‘SOMETHING SWEET’ Magazines - 90 issues plus all attachments. Price: £100.

• 20 metal CAKE TINS - various sizes. Price: £25.

• Large ‘linen’ TABLE CLOTH plus 6 matching NAPKINS natural colour.

Price: £15.

Tel: 07490 587518 (Groby).

• GLASS TV CORNER TABLE - 30” wide, 20” deep, 20” high. Three glass shelves. Good condition.

Price £40.Tel 01530 242715 (Newtown Linford).

• Chrome LIGHT FITTINGS 5-spoke and 2 wall lights, all Tulipshape. Very small bulb. £25 o.n.o.

• Pair of SHOES - black toe-cap, smart. Size 5. Price: £15 o.n.o.

Tel: 01530 243493 (Markfield).

• FREE! POND FISH, including comets and shubunkins, are free to a good home.

• FREE! A GARDEN SHREDDER in good working order.

Telephone 0116 287 7870 (Groby) • Four-wheel Rollator WALKING AID with seat. Only a few months old.

Cost £80. Price: £20 (To charity).

Tel: 0116 287 6844 (Groby).

• Two Habitat large multi RUGS 100% cotton, hand woven. Cost £70 each. Brand new. Price: £40 each o.n.o..

Tel: 07768 813051 (Markfield).

• PLXR450 quick release PANNIER RACK. Price: £50. Very good condition.

• 1 pair MONORACK ARMS for rear rack. Price: £25.Very good condition.

• BMW GS INDOOR COVER. Price: £10. Very good condition.

Tel Alan on 07715056674 (Groby).

• TONING TABLE with multiple positions and timer and manual.

Price: £50. Collection only from home address in Groby.

• Nice well-kept and clean STEP2 CAR BED. With Mattress/cover. Deassembles easily. Must be collected.

Offers.

• Limited edition or no longer in production Doctor Who 6 volt RIDE IN DALEK - Red - sound effects too. Bought in 2011 through John Lewis for around £60. Price: £25.

Tel: 0116 224 5517 (Groby).

• Set of CONCORDE BOWLS - size OM. Price: £40.

Tel: 01530 243802.

• TRAVEL COT/PLAY PEN by “Travellite”. Good condition. Easy to erect & dismantle. Complete with mattress and storage bag. Price: £20.

Tel: 0116 222 9133 (Groby).

• Hotpoint integradted FRIDGE - in good clean working order. Price: £20.

• Remington FOOT SPA Ultimate - includes 4 different pedicure attachments and 4 treatments.

Unwanted gift. Price: £15.

Tel: 0116 287 6761 (Groby) • CAR ROOF BOX. Medium size.

Price: £10.00. HAMSTER / SMALL RABBIT CAGE. Size 21 inches by 40 inches. Price: £20.00.

Tel:0116 287 6392 (Groby).

IF YOU HAVE any household items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Spotlight, please SEND DETAILS by post or email - sorry, we can’t take them over the phone.

Maximum EIGHT items please.

Our postal address is: Spotlight Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk PLEASE ENSURE that you put ‘Small Ads’ in the subject line, and INCLUDE YOUR FULL POSTAL ADDRESS (not for publication).

Thank You Groby – it’s not too late to help mums to be AS YOU read this article we are coming to the end of Christian Aid week (12th – 18th May 2019).

Many of you have once again responded generously to this year’s door to door appeal focused on improving health and maternity care for mothers living in poverty in Sierra Leone. Conditions are so bad there that 10 mums die in child birth each week.

On behalf of Christian Aid and mums across Sierra Leone can we therefore say a really big thank you to every resident and business who has supported this year’s appeal.

Although the week is now coming to a close it is not too late to make a donation. Many people who pay tax can also complete Gift Aid statements increasing the value of their donation by 25%.

Jebbeh Konneh (pictured) is heavily pregnant. Her sister recently died in childbirth and Jebbeh fears she may be next: ‘I’m afraid. I pray, when that day comes, God will help me to deliver safely, so that I can have a bouncing baby and I’ll be healthy.’

If you would like to help mums like Jebbeh give birth safely please use the envelope that we have put through your letter box. Completed envelopes can be returned to any of the addresses below or give us a call (0116 299 1873) and we will come and collect your donation.

• Chaplin’s Butchers • 12 Flaxfield Close, Groby LE6 0EZ • 12 Sycamore Grove, Groby, LE6 0GZ Alternatively, you can donate on line at caweek.org or by calling 08080 006 006 We will update you on the final total collected here in Groby in the next edition of Spotlight.

Thank you for reading this short article and for thinking and helping others.

“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35 35 New International Version (NIV)

Mary Pringle & Christine Davies Churches Together in Groby

Letter Frustrated by car park barrier MY HUSBAND and I both have disabled badges and have been residents of Groby for many years.

We become very frustrated that we cannot park on the disabled spaces at the village hall when visiting the post office or library as the barrier is always down.

During our life time in Groby we have both contributed to the village hall, and have served on the village hall committee in the past for many years.

With help of our family we did a lot of fund raising along with others to purchase the hall for the village. Our daughter did a parachute jump to help raise funds.

Why do we have a barrier? For what reason?

Why is it closed? We both have disabled badges and need to use this when we visit the village.

Joy and Terry Nicol

Just tell me when and where and I’ll be there 20 minutes late.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

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Martinshaw School News Trim Trail Is it metal ? Is it concrete? Is it timber? No, it’s recycled Welsh Plastic, but it is not the sort of plastic that you imagine, because if you feel it, or worse case scenario, bang your head against, it could be any one of the above.

After at least a couple of years of diligent saving, Martinshaw School Assoc. (MSA) managed to find the money to provide the school with a ‘Trim Trail’.

Having seen it, I must confess that I have seen less complicated and strenuous Army Assault courses.

I thought to myself that I must have a go and as I contemplated the start I broke the ‘World Changing Your Mind Record’ of 5 seconds after saying to myself, ‘Don’t be such an idiot, you don’t like hospital food’.

Seriously though, the children are organised into small groups and the use is strictly monitored. However, I was proved wrong, as you usually are when you underestimate young people, as all age groups seem to take the obstacles in their stride.

The whole thing is solid and very well constructed, but set on grass, consequently can only be used in good weather. The aim is to raise sufficient funds to cover the grass with a durable and safe all weather surface, opening up the equipment for all the year round use.

Sports The students took part in a number of organised sporting events over the last few weeks.

Football :- The year 5 Boys took part in the local ‘B’ league and managed to come second, the same result as the Boys in the ‘A’ league.

The nemesis once again proving to be a Groby school. So again the consolation is that the trophy remained in the village.

Bearing in mind that most of the ‘B’ team was made up of students whose first choice game is Rugby Union, they showed a remarkable amount of skill and ball control in an area that most spectators and players believed was far too small for a 7 aside game.

The girls teams have also had a successful year, winning most of their games and quickly earning a reputation as a team that is difficult to beat.

Cricket:- Year 3 attended a Cricket and Curriculum day at Grace Road with lots of cross-curricular links between subjects, which of course included cricket.

The students not only got a lot out of the day, but also enjoyed themselves, especially the more practical parts.

Tag Rugby:- 3 teams of 10 students from years 5 and 6 attended a Tag Rugby Tournament at Hinckley RFC. All the teams acquitted themselves well with team 3 winning all their matches and team 2 winning all but one (a draw).

The school has close links with the Leicester Tigers Community Programme so will continue to coach Rugby in the future.

Gymnastics:- A group of 10 students from years 3 and 4 took part in a Gymnastics event at New College.along with two other Leicestershire Schools. All three schools mixed well together and took part in various disciplines.

It should be no surprise to discover that we have some remarkably talented Gymnasts.

0116 234 0548 We can take care of every detail, advise and help you on each and every step of the way.

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Mother’s Day Last month it was Dads and Granddads in school. This month it has been the turn of Mums and Grans. In a Mother’s Day event organised by the MSA Mums and Grans, served by their children, tucked into cakes and scones, washed down, of course, by hot tea.

Tree Planting

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

In 2016, while out in the National Forest planting trees alongside students from the school, BBC Breakfast’s Charlie Stayt made a promise that if a thousand viewers got in touch with the programme a thousand trees would be donated.

The viewers got in touch and as promised a thousand trees were donated.

Who better then to plant those trees than the siblings and younger friends of the pupils who were planting when Charlie made the promise.

So with television cameras once more in attendance, year 3 set out to fulfil Charlie’s wish and begin the task of planting the trees in an area now known as ‘The BBC Breakfast Woodland’.

The government’s aim is eventually, to plant 11 million trees throughout Great Britain as historically GB is by far the least forested country in Europe.

Owen Lawrence

I’d be the worst evil villain cause all you’d really have to do is hide my glasses.

06/05/2019 Word Search Pu Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

30

Latin Phrase Wordsearch IF YOU can find 12 COMMON LATIN PHRASES in this issue’s Wordsearch puzzle, 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.

I A M N O H M M V N T J M Q J T A

I D F A S F Z P O E C G P Y X M O

P L H F F J R P M Q E T I Z E P A

R B U B T O G P R U S Z B I J E L

C O X P F W U Y F I U P D K G D X

D G T O O S O I N D M E R O S O Q

M V R P F P X R U P P A E T I E U

To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - 12 LATIN PHRASES COMMONLY IN USE. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). IMPORTANT: You must address your entry to: STATUS QUO, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive

by SATURDAY 1ST JUNE 2019. Remember to include your name N A L T Z M M B M K and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the prize. Good luck!

M X I S P B U R J H

N U M N X M U R I J F C E M H

G D W E E O A O N D N A E G Y

O I L B T C V Q S W K F C N C

M Y I I U A C U I A I O N I A

E G J Q Y W E O T F G S P U E

M S H K G A Y V U U I P L Q Z

T I N I F N I D A W V I I H H

N O T D C Q W L P C S B L Y F

C P C T E R R A F I R M A Y O

D I L H A P L U C A E M V D Z

Here are the 12 LATIN PHRASES you have to find:

AD INFINITUM • CARPE DIEM • CAVEAT EMPTOR IN SITU • IPSO FACTO • MEA CULPA PRIMA FACIE • PRO FORMA • QUID PRO QUO TEMPUS FUGIT • TERRA FIRMA • VOX POPULI Name: .................................................................................................

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

CLOSING DATE: SATURDAY 1ST JUNE 2019

Letter

ADINFINITUM CARPEDIEM CAVEATEMPTOR INSITU IPSOFACTO MEACULPA I PRIMAFACIE READ with interest your PROFORMA article on the ‘No Cycling’ sign

By Adam Kay atQUIDPROQUO Marina Park.

Welcome to the life of a TEMPUSFUGIT I have children which use the park TERRAFIRMA junior doctor: 97-hour and thought that really, there’s a lot VOXPOPULI weeks, life and death of wasted potential between Marina decisions, a constant and Memorial Park. Apart from the tsunami of bodily fluids, perimeter path, there’s a big green field in the centre which is little used by and the hospital parking Created by more Puzzlemaker anyone. meter earns than Currently, the children of Groby really you. only use a small percentage of the Scribbled park - the play area and BMX track near in secret Marina Drive. after Wouldn’t it be a great opportunity endless to add to the parks - we could have a days, specific cycle path all around the park, sleepless and even through the middle of the nights and field. We could add another play area/ missed gym equipment at the Stamford Drive weekends, car park end, and maybe even plant Adam some woodland somewhere in the Kay’s This middle to make a nature reserve or is Going to wildlife area.

Hurt provides a no-holds-barred I just feel at the minute, the park is like account of his time on the NHS a green desert - a big wide area with front line. nothing to see or do there, and I think Hilarious, horrifying and it would be really nice for the people of heartbreaking, this diary is Groby to have somewhere fun, relaxing everything you wanted to know and recreational to visit and enjoy.

– and more than a few things What does the rest of Groby think? you didn’t – about life on and off the hospital ward.

Marina Park Idea

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch Competition was:

Mr.Michael Weldon of Overdale Avenue, Glenfield Congratulations! Your prize voucher will be sent to you soon.

This Is Going To Hurt

at DiscoveryEducation.com

Leo Coombes

After kissing a girl on her sofa she said “Let’s take this upstairs”. “Ok” I said. “ You grab one end and I’ll grab the other.”

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-MAY 2019 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Elizabeth Woodville School News Double Delight!

Elizabeth Woodville celebrated an unlikely double success in this year’s Football Leagues by winning both the girls’ league and the mixed league without losing a game!

Our girls’ team went into the league feeling confident that they would light up the event with their fast-paced attacking football and they certainly did just that.

Excellent goals in the early fixtures

by Phoebe Badelek secured our place at the top of league going into the table-topping crunch match with Stafford Leys. There was nothing between the two teams and only a wonder goal would be the difference between the two sides. Step forward Rosie Fowler who calmly chested the ball down from a goal kick and then let fly with a venomous, rasping volley into the top corner of the goal. A goal worthy of winning any game!

Our team won their final league match and secured the league title, which was presented to the team

by Mansfield Town goalkeeper, Conrad Logan (pictured below).

Our mixed boys and girls team followed on from the success of our girls by playing some excellent football, filled with energy, desire and team spirit. Group stage goals

by Matthew Payne secured our team’s place in the grand finale against Newtown Linford. Again it was a very close final separated by only one goal. As if inspired by the wonder goal that secured the girls’ victory, Nathan Wilton entered the fray and walloped a pin-point volley past the goalkeeper from a narrow angle to ensure we lifted the league and cup double!

Can you guess the traditional tale?

about the Human Digestive System.

First, they created an experiment to test the effects of acid on various foods, then they made a model of the digestive system (yuk!) and finally used some tablets to test their own ‘teeth-cleaning’ abilities!

Engineers of the future

In English, Class 2 have been learning about Traditional Tales.

They’ve been focusing on Little Red Riding Hood. We have been inspired by Pie Corbett and have used lots of talk and discussion to help us learn about non-fiction stories. We’ve really enjoyed acting out a story to understand how they are structured. We have created our own characters ‘Little Black Bow’ and ‘Little Denim Jacket’. See if you can guess the characters from Little Red Riding Hood in the photo below?

Spring poems

Year 3 have had an engineering focus over the last few weeks.

Firstly, we have taken part in the spaghetti challenge. The object of the challenge was to build the tallest tower using marshmallows and spaghetti. The tower also had to be strong enough to hold a chocolate egg for 30 seconds.

Pupils used their knowledge of the properties of tall structures to apply the same designs to their own work. We have also just started a new engineering project, where we have to make a vehicle chassis with a circuit attached in order to power

CATCH meets for play, craft, story & chat for pre-school children with a parent or carer 9.30-11.30am every Friday at Groby URC Chapel Hill

Messy Science Year 4 had a fantastic and extremely messy Science day to complete their topic learning all

Ratby Methodist Church

it up a ramp. We have made a great start and demonstrated excellent teamwork!

In Year 1 we have been looking at different genres of writing. We have created reports, riddles, letters and finished off by learning the different features of poems. As a class we decided to uses our senses and repeated patterns to create a spring time poem. We carefully thought about the adjectives, verbs and adverbs by collecting ideas during our outdoor lesson. Fantastic vocabulary Year 1!

Ark Farm trip EYFS enjoyed a visit from Ark Farm where they got to meet and stroke rabbits, chickens, a tortoise guinea pigs and a dog. They enjoyed sharing their knowledge about caring for animals and their different habitats, and enjoyed asking lots of questions. We even had a surprise visit from an Owl too!

Every Saturday morning 10.00am—12.30pm

Well done to all of our teams for their team spirit, togetherness and determination.

31

Fair Cuppa for FairTrade refreshments in fairly traded mugs.

Every Thursday 10.3012am at the Village Hall

Monday 3rd June 2019 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm

Raffle and Bring & Buy Refreshments Entry is free Please support our Missions work

Ratby Methodist Church Saturday 15th June 10.00 am to 12.00 noon

Coffee Morning &

It’s good to share!

If you enjoyed reading this issue, please pass it on to a friend or relative when you’ve finished with it.

Thanks!

Weekly in term time for children for 6’s to 14’s on Mon evenings, at 6.00pm or 7.45pm. We meet at the United Reformed Church on Chapel Hill.

Along with our work in schools, these are run by the two churches in Groby under the group name EXTEND.

For further information please see websites and church magazines St. Philip and St. James Rector – Rev Ed Bampton 01162396520 www.grobychurch.org.uk United Reformed Church Phil Holmes (Church Secretary) 0116 225 3335 www.grobyurc.com Youth, Children's & Families Colin Udall 07776 157511 colin.udall@ntlworld.com

I had a vasectomy so I won’t have kids. But when I got home, they were still there.

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