Groby Juniors say Thank You to their many sponsors!
Martinshaw Says Goodbye to Ginny Staps After close to a quarter of a century, Martinshaw’s Bursar, Mrs Ginny Staps, retired and said goodbye to the local Primary School.
Following last year’s very successful season, many at Groby Juniors were busy over the summer months raising money for their teams new kits and training jackets. Many activities took place. The boys themselves raising money by cycling around Rutland Water on which turned out to be on one of the hottest days of the summer! A great time was had by all and even included a little paddling to cool down at the finishing line. There has been a Business Card Raffle where businesses were invited to pay £10 to put their cards in to the raffle with the prize being their names to appear on our kits. Other companies have also very generously come forward to sponsor a kit. This season the teams will now look as good on and off the field as they hopefully will be playing on it! We would like to thank everybody who has contributed in any way for their support, not least the parents of our players. As many of you are no doubt aware it becomes harder and harder to raise funds especially in today’s current economic climate. In these circumstances it has made us even more delighted that our teams have been so successful, not to mention impressed by the amount of support we have received from the local village communities.
Owen Lawrence
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Preparing for floods in Groby?
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Passers-by were astonished to see members of Co-Op staff in a dinghy in the centre of Groby recently. Turn to page 3 to find out more ...
Throughout her time at the School, Ginny also served on the Governing body and achieved the remarkable record of never having missed a single meeting, a record of dedication and commitment that I would imagine would be very hard to match. On Thursday 14th October, Ginny’s final day, a special School assembly was held and children from all years ranging from Foundation to Year 6 presented her with cards and sang her favourite songs. A card produced by year 4 in the shape of a shoe drew particular comment. The children were obviously aware of Ginny’s reputation as Desford’s answer to Imelda Marcos. In the evening a party was organised at the School where colleagues past and present attended to say goodbye. Among the guests were her husband and sons and the three Headmasters that Ginny had worked with over the years, Mr Geoff Heath, Mr Steve White and the present Head, Mr Andrew Raben. John Gillingham, a past Deputy Head, gave an hilarious talk concerning her past, present and future and a somewhat embarrassed and emotional Ginny replied and expressed her sadness to be leaving what she referred to as this ‘Happy, lovely and progressive School’. All in all a wonderful send off for a remarkable lady.
PADDLE: (l-r) Sharon Evans, Liz Philips and Nick Sullivan outside Midlands Co-op Foodstore Groby.
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Next issue out on 11th December • Article/Advert Deadline: 27th November
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Carols Around the Christmas Tree The People’s Choice 2010
Art Exhibition & Sale at Groby Village Hall A local artist is holding a Christmas Exhibition and Sale at Groby village Hall on Saturday, 27 November from 10am to 4pm.
Many of you will remember that last year Churches Together in Groby organised a questionnaire to establish The People’s Choice of favourite carols. This was very well received and around 400 people turned up to ‘sing in Christmas’. Now is the time to put this year’s date in your diary: Tuesday 14th December at 7.00pm on the Stamford Arms car park.
So how can you be involved? If you belong to a village club, school or organisation, or visit any of the local shops you should be able to make your choice by placing a tick on a yellow form. We shall be out and about distributing posters and voting forms at the end of this month and early in December. If by chance you are missed off our visiting list, forms can be requested from Ruth Ivens, 2876038 In recent years the weather has been kind to us and for the Ratby Band, with the event gaining popularity each year. It’s a lovely opportunity to come together as a village for an hour, to sing our favourite Christmas Carols eleven days before Christmas Day.
Joy Russell
for Churches Together in Groby
Groby Juniors - from page 1 We would particularly like to thank this year’s sponsors Absolute Insulations, LJF (UK), Clovemead, Val Steward, Skills For Enterprise, ASAP Promo, Axiom Retail Interiors, SFC Midlands Steel Fabrications/Security Fencing, and Cathy Stephens Jewellery. Thanks also go to those who took part in our business raffle but on this occasion were unsuccessful including Cadle Builders, Pinpoint Training, Pagetts Carpentry, C. B. Till Butchers, T. R. Measom Building Services, Wilson and Sons Newagents, Bradgate Dry Cleaners, Pricegate, Hensons Hardware, Opticare, Charnwood Home Improvements, Hensons Brothers Motor Vehicles, E. Chaplin and Son Butchers, Clip2plate, On-site Photos, Beddow Treecare, UK Gas, Midland Roofs Limited, Henstock Accountants, Anstey Skip Hire, Norman and Underwood, E-tyres, Evans Brothers Roofing, Sunningdale Supplies Limited, Peli, M. M. Leggett Veterinary and Get Doing Limited. Please feel free to come along and support our teams on a Sunday, with games generally taking place in the mornings at Groby Community College. If your son or daughter is interested in joining Groby Juniors please contact Scott Upton on 0790 165 2061 who will advise you of the appropriate team and their training times. Alternatively, if anyone is interested in future sponsorship please contact us as soon as possible as there are always opportunities arising. Thanks again to all of those who have supported us with this venture and in so many other ways over the past season. The 2010/2011 season is now well underway and it is proving to be both challenging and exciting. We particularly wish the U9s success in their debut into Division One.
Emander Kerr
Mark Wilde has been painting and teaching in the area for more than 15 years and is exhibiting work from his collection. Hundreds of paintings and drawings will be on offer, including watercolours, acrylics, pen and wash and pastels. Admission is free. For more info ring Mark at 01509 673064.
WISE WORDS The trouble with talking too fast is you may say something you haven’t thought of yet. Ann Landers
St Philip and St James Church, Groby
Christmas Tree Festival 4th-6th December We are holding our sixth annual Christmas tree festival this year and have contacted groups and organisations in the village inviting them to participate in this popular event by decorating a tree. The Theme this year is “Christmas Past, Present and Future. If we have missed you, and you would like to take part please contact Jane Cox on 0116 287 0212 for further details.
Christine Davies
St P and J DCC secretary
RSPB Leicester Local Group
CHRISTMAS FAIR: Sat 20th Nov at Groby Village Hall - 10am to 3pm
Admission: Adults 50p, Children FREE Craft Stalls, Tombola, Plants, Cakes, Plants, Books, Etc.
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I envy people who drink - at least they know what to blame everything on.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Trio Take To The Water For Charity
Groby & Field Head Spotlight PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT
Contact Mike or Susan on 01530-244069
Mother & Toddler Group at Groby Village Hall Cheeky Monkeys Mother & Toddler Group meets at Groby Village Hall on Tuesdays 10-11:30 am. All welcome from newborns to 4 years of age, term time only. Coffee, tea & biscuits for mum, juice for the little ones. Toys and sing songs for all, come along and join in the fun.
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.
Annual Craft Fair in aid of Animals
Composed 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.
Colleagues from a Groby store swapped their uniforms for lifejackets when they took to the water recently to raise funds for charity.
In action (second row) Nick Sullivan and Liz Philips (third row right) Sharon Evans. Photo courtesy of Coolpics.
Nick Sullivan, Liz Philips and Sharon Evans from Midlands Cooperative Foodstore on Leicester Road took part in a white water rafting adventure in Snowdon and in doing so raised over £400 for their staff-elected charity, the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association. Nick Sullivan, Midlands Cooperative Foodstore Groby explains: “We wanted to do something different and daring
to raise funds for our staff-elected charity and felt white water rafting fitted the bill perfectly. We are very grateful to our customers and colleagues who have helped us raise such a fantastic amount of money for such a good cause. ” The trio took part in the event at the National White Water Centre, Canolfan Dwr Gwyn, Genedlaethol in Wales and are now busy planning their next fundraising adventure.
The Leicestershire Branch of the RSPCA , based at the Woodside Animal Centre, will be holding their annual Christmas Craft Fair from 10am to 4 pm on Sunday the 21st of November at the Groby Village Hall. At £1 for adults and accompanied children free, it is not a treat to be missed. There will be a variety of craft stalls selling seasonal items and numerous fundraising goods being sold in aid of the Woodside Animal Centre. There will also be a tombola and one specially for pets. As usual there will be an excellent range of refreshments to enjoy. It is hoped that Father Christmas will be dropping in.
Notice served on travellers camped near Groby Pool Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council has served a notice on travellers who have moved on to the ‘Klondyke’ site near Groby Pool, according to a report in the Leicester Mercury. The notice requires them to move on within seven days, or else further action could be taken to evict them. The council said three caravans had moved on to an area known locally as Klondyke, opposite the car park of Groby Pool, in Newtown Linford Lane, Groby. A spokesman for Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council told the Leicester Mercury: “The council was notified on Sunday 24th October and an officer immediately inspected the site. “A seven-day notice was served the following day and further action may follow depending on whether they comply.”
NEXT ISSUE OUT Saturday 11th December
Advert Deadline:
Saturday 27th November
TO ADVERTISE: Call 01530 244069 Email: info@ grobyspotlight.co.uk Ad rates: page 27 My parents stayed together for forty years, but that was out of spite.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
LETTER
Rowing success for Oliver Talbot
I am writing to express my concern at the slow broadband speeds I have experienced in Groby. The highest speed I have ever got in recent months is 2 megabytes per second. This is a shadow of what BT claim my telephone maximum my telephone line can handle (20 megabytes per second). I rang BT Customer Services earlier this year to complain about the slow speed, interestingly I was informed by the customer services representative on the phone, that there was a problem at the exchange (in Glenfield) and that they would send an engineer out within the next couple of days to rectify this problem. The same gentleman rang back the next evening to see if the speed had changed at all. I ran the online BT speed checker while on the phone to him; he assured me that it would be quicker. But it was exactly the same as it was before. A few months later, a friend also rang BT customer services and experienced the same outcome. I became so frustrated with my speeds I recently switched to Sky which was using the same line but was only marginally better. This is because BT provides access to these lines to other providers such as Orange, Sky and TalkTalk. There was a planning application to build 133 new houses in Groby in 2009 by Bloors homes. This application was refused by Hinckley & Bosworth borough council. However, there will come a time when new houses will have to be built in Groby or Glenfield. The exchange is barely coping at the moment with all the internet traffic that passes through it. On bank holidays it is not even worth trying to access the internet as it is too slow to even load Google. It makes you wonder if dial up is actually any slower. There are two solutions to this problem; either BT builds a new exchange just for Groby - or we as an area campaign to have BT fibre optic broadband rolled out to our exchange to rectify this problem. Fibre-optic communication is a method of transmitting information from one place to another by sending pulses of light through an optical fibre. Now, Groby Parish Council has already informed me that they are doing the best they can to get the broadband speeds faster. The only way broadband speeds will get faster if the community works together, not just relying on the Parish Council to campaign on your behalf. From my experience with BT I got the impression that they will not build a new exchange unless they get an overwhelming response as it is very expensive to do so. So this leaves us with only the other option which is to campaign for BT fibre optic broadband. If we as an area can get enough votes submitted by residents there is a more likely positive outcome. You can access http://www. racetoinfinity.bt.com/home from any computer. All you have to do is register your telephone number and post code and your vote will be cast. You don’t have to be a BT customer to take part in this activity. However, you can only vote once for your household. According to the BT main website, Kirby Muxloe exchange will be upgraded to fibre optic on 31st September 2011. This in itself is unfair as the internet demands of Kirby Muxloe and Groby and Glenfield differ greatly. Also I have made an online poll http://snappoll.com/poll/346359.php to find out from local residents how happy they are with their current broadband speed. The day of writing this article according to the BT speed checker the maximum my telephone line can support is 1.5 megabytes per second. This is even worse than before which further makes my case even more worth campaigning for. I have created pages on Twitter http://twitter.com/ grobyinfinity, Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Leicester-United-Kingdom/Groby-Glenfield-BT-InfinityCampaign/ I have also made a website http://groby-glenfield-btinfinity-campaign.webs.com/ to support our campaign I look forward to hearing your responses and joining me in the campaign
Joe Hubbert
Oliver Talbot (12) of Groby had another rowing success in ST Neots recently,winning the mixed double with fellow team member Amy Lynch. Despite the weather conditions, and very tough competition, Leicester Rowing Club Juniors came home triumphant with 4 medals including overall fastest row of the day.
November Fayre in Markfield A November Fayre is being held on Saturday 20th November between 10am and 1pm at the Congregational Church Hall, Main Street, Markfield. Refreshments, lunches, raffle, gifts, cakes and groceries, household goods, bric-a-brac, etc. will all be available. All welcome. The event is in aid of St.Michael’s Church in Markfield.
Ladies Mobile Therapist Reflexology or Reiki Healing ‘in the comfort of your own home’ Cost: £27 Joanna T: 0775 192 5247 www.joannalynne.co.uk They say you only use ten per cent of your brain. What about the other ten?
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Multiple barn conversion opportunity in Groby
FISHER GERMAN Chartered Surveyors and E.A.LANE Estate Agents are jointly offering for sale an exciting development opportunity to provide four residential dwellings in a village setting. The property - Groby Barns, Markfield Road, Groby, Leicester LE6 0FL - is adjacent to the historic Grade II Listed Groby Old Hall, and close to a good range of local shops, schools, public house and parish church. The barns have planning permission (ref: 10/00266/FUL) for their conversion into four residential dwellings. There is scope to provide for garden areas and also a grass paddock at the rear of unit 4. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Fisher German on 01530 412821 or E.A.Lane on 0116 233 6433.
Anyone can admit they were wrong; the true test is admitting it to someone else.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
BMX track – the bathwater goes but the baby is saved Norman Griffiths reports that a lower cost option is approved Following consultation with local BMX enthusiasts Groby Parish Council has scaled back plans for a BMX track on Marina Park. At the November Parish Council meeting approval was given to move ahead with a scheme that will not require external funding and can be achieved within the budget of £40,000 already allocated to the project. The Council had wanted to provide a high quality track enclosed by a 3 metre high fence and complete with a starting gate and lighting. The cost of the track itself was estimated at £45,000, but fencing and low level lighting added another £29,000. In order to deliver this scheme external grant funding was needed and to improve the chances of success another £1000 was set aside to establish a BMX club that could make grant applications. There was little enthusiasm locally, however, for this arrangement and a meeting was held at the Village Hall on October 28th to discuss all options. At the meeting, attended by both young and older enthusiasts, it soon became clear that the preferred option was to use the available funds to provide a more modest track. The alternative of more delays and the uncertainties which applying for grants would bring found little support.
Same quality track planned Some of the cyclists attended the Parish Council meeting on November 1st to listen to the debate on the project and contribute during the public participation section. They heard that the scheme had been revised on the basis of dropping the provision of lighting, the starting gate and the fencing, and that this brought the estimated cost within the cash set aside by the Council. There will be no need to downgrade the quality of the track or reduce its size. Planning permission would still be needed but once the revised scheme is approved, and a date set for the contractor to start on site, construction would only take around four weeks.
Approval welcomed Approval of the plan was welcomed by local BMX riders, who believe that once there is a track interest will quickly grow and a club will be formed. “Needless to say I’m absolutely delighted with the decision of the Council last Monday and can only thank those that attended the recent meetings to show support for the scheme which helped it across the line,” said Jamie West who has played a key role in delivering the BMX proposals. “The approved scheme has not compromised the quality of the track being proposed and
will provide an excellent facility for today’s young (and old) of Groby as well as for future generations. We hope that a club can be formed as soon as possible so we can start to deliver a structured training to those who want it and provide a safe environment for those who just wish to ride on a casual basis. We expect that once built the track will be a great success and the envy of surrounding villages.” Jo Brettle-West, another enthusiast also expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “My family are delighted with the news about the forthcoming BMX track,” she said. “My husband used to ride through the eighties. BMX is now an Olympic sport that has enjoyed a revival over the last decade. We got involved with our children who have ridden since the age of 3.” Travelling out of the village has been the only way to practice the sport for anyone wanting to join a
A team effort is a lot of people doing what I say.
club or use a purpose built track. “We had to travel to Bulwell in Nottingham to be part of a club and regularly travel to Nuneaton and Alvaston in Derby to train,” added Jo. “BMX is a fantastic family sport that’s spans both sexes and all ages. We look forward to developing BMX in Groby.”
No further consultation The original scheme met with no objections from local residents, and whilst no further consultation is planned by the Council there will be the opportunity for neighbours and others to comment on the revised proposal when the planning application is submitted. It is hoped, however, that the dropping of the requirement for a club, the starting gate, lights and 3 metre high fence will not be an issue for near neighbours of the track. Improvements to the car park are unchanged by the new plans as this has separate funding.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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I’ve always wanted to be normal, but lately I’ve come to suspect that this is it.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Sing-up with Leicester Cathedral Chorister Outreach Programme Here are Year 5 pupils at Ratby Primary School posing for a photograph after enjoying a really good sing, with Matt Haynes, one of Leicester Cathedral’s Young Singing Leaders. The scheme was initiated by the Government to help make singing central to children’s lives in schools and the aim is to get every child singing. Extensive studies carried out by leading Universities have proved the benefits of regular singing to be enormous, improving concentration in other areas of the curriculum, such as maths, literacy and languages, developing social and communicative skills, physically, by exercising the respiratory and cardiac function and emotionally, often mood-lifting, but as an outlet for expressing sadness or joy. After partaking in weekly workshops of one hour for ten weeks, 3 -5 schools will join together for a lovely concert at Leicester Cathedral, supported by their parents, teachers and friends. Eighteen schools from across the city and county have taken part in the programme so far and schools are now booking for next year. Martinshaw Primary School in Groby will be one of four schools taking part in the summer term 2011. Julie Tyler – Chorister Outreach – Leicester Cathedral • (Enquiries about the Cathedral Chorister Outreach scheme and information on how to book a place - Julie.tyler@leccofe.org
Thought for the Month
LETTER
Appeal for witness On 4th October 2010 my silver Jette car was parked outside Santander on Ratby Road in Groby. During the day a refuse truck was leaving the car park opposite and at the same time a red car travelling along Ratby Road hit my car. If anybody witnessed this collision, could you please contact the Co-Op Pharmacy on Ratby Road, Groby either in person or by phone on 0116 287 6729.
Getting it perfect There is often great beauty to be found in imperfection.
No tree is perfectly straight, no mountain peak perfectly symmetrical, and yet the world is filled with beautiful mountains, trees and other magnificently imperfect things. When a friend is hurting, you don’t have to put together the perfect combination of words to let that person know you care. All you must do is speak from the heart. When there is a challenge facing you, it’s not necessary to come up with a perfect solution. Effective, focused, appropriate action will do just as well. It’s fine for perfection to be your goal. Just don’t let the lack of perfection be an excuse for doing nothing. There are countless good and valuable things in life that are far short of perfect. In fact, if everything were always perfect, life would not be nearly so interesting. Certainly you always want to do your best. Just make sure that getting it done takes priority over getting it perfect.
Ralph Marston
Copyright 2010 Ralph S. Marston, Jr. Used by permission. Originally published in “The Daily Motivator” at www.dailymotivator.com
LETTER
Can we use the Spotlight to find a good home for our photocopier? I live in Groby and run an Export company based in Ibstock. We have just replaced our Photocopier for one that only a NASA scientist or a 12 year old could operate. Our old trusty simple Canon B&W Photocopier needs a new home. I wondered if any Groby based charities or groups could make use of ours before I release it into the wild on freecycle.co.uk It is B&W and can handle A4 & A3. It is about 10 years old and still runs OK. All it does is photocopy, it won’t scan, fold, staple or make coffee. It has its own stand. If you want the spec then it’s best to google Canon IR1600. If anyone can make use of it then please feel free to contact me with your “X-Factor style sob story” on the below details. Thanks & regards,
Paul Chick
Director, Mideco Engineering Limited. Suite 5, Brookside House, Spring Road, Ibstock. Leicestershire, LE67 6LR, Tel: 01530 260062 Fax: 01530 260072 Mobile 07502 278 376
I’ve been trying for some time to develop a lifestyle that doesn’t require my presence.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Willie Thorne needs more golfers
Last year and the year before Snooker and Strictly Come Dancing star Willie Thorne played golf with around 100 golfers to raise money for RAINBOWS CHILDREN’S HOSPICE. The event is again being held at The Forest Hill Golf and Country Club, Botcheston, Near Markfield and is your chance to meet and play golf with Willie. You are welcome to come and play – or just be a spectator on November 17th. Arrival time is 9.00am with a shotgun start at 10.00 o’clock. This is a full handicap stableford competition with excellent prizes. The entry fee includes bap and coffee upon arrival and 2 course meal after. Players will be given a Santa Suit and must wear it to play. This adds to the FUN element of the day and also to the difficulty of playing competent golf! Entry details can be obtained from Forest Hill Golf and Country Club on 01455 824800 matt@foresthillgolfclub.co.uk or David Hollins on 0116 2290495 07930 200213 david.hollins3@ntlworld.com This is a great day of FUN, Willie is a keen golfer and is looking forward to meeting all the players. Please make a special effort to make up a team of 4 and join in the fun and also help Rainbows.
Custard is back in fashion The recession has affected even our appetites. More and more of us are seeking comfort in the oldfashioned products of our childhood. Sales of powdered custard have doubled in two years, while powdered milk has gone up 36 per cent and corned beef up 16 per cent. MySupermarket.com says consumers have appeared to favour ‘cheap and cheerful’ food products. What is your favourite ‘old food’, and why? Contact the Spotlight and let our readers know ...
Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.
10
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Small Ads FOR SALE HI-FI UNIT Yew wood with 2 side cupboards, with leaded glass centre cupboard, unusual design, v.g.c. Price: £40, HI-FI UNIT with turntable, radio, CD player & 2 speakers, excellent condition Price £30 T: 0116 287 8806. TOYS – ‘E.L.C.’ Happy Land, Hosp, P.Office, Bakers, Train & Track, Church, Emergency Vehicles & Road Track, excellent condition Price: £55 (Will seperate), PLAY KITCHEN with accessories, excellent condition Price: £40, FRIDGE/FREEZER Hotpoint, white, RFA 51, E.E. Level A, excellent condition Price: £100, BEDSTEAD Double Antique Pine, good condition Price: £30 T: 0116 287 3229. BABY CLOTHES Girls, Birth-1 year Price: From 50p, BABY EQUIPMENT incl. 2 pushchairs Prices: Various - Please enquire. T: 0116 231 1830. CROSS TRAINER Horizon Andes 200. Digital readout, heart monitor & workout programmes, floor protecting mat & a/c adaptor, good condition Price: £125 ovno (Over £500 new) T: 0787 243 6833 (Groby).
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Send us the details, cost of item and your contact phone number for the display box, together with your home address for our purposes only (not for publication). Max FOUR items, please. Max price asked: £300.
See page 3 for Spotlight contact details.
Amusing Signs • • • • •
In a London office block: “Toilet out of order. Please use floor below.” On a plumber’s van: “Don’t sleep with a drip. Call your plumber.” Outside a Mexican disco: “Members and non-members only.” In a barber’s shop: “Haircuts half price today. Only one per customer.” Outside a Bangkok dry cleaners: “Drop your trousers here for best results.”
Martinshaw pupils meet their MP On Friday 8th October Martinshaw Primary School enjoyed a visit from their local Member of Parliament, The Right Hon.Stephen Dorrell MP. Mr Dorrell immediately joined a meeting of the School Council under the Chairmanship of year 6 student Simran Thandi. The Council comprises children from years 2 to 6, who, after making presentations to their classmates, are elected as their representatives for a school year. They discuss everything from fund raising ideas to playground discipline. They also manage the school’s healthy tuck shop, which was started by the council over a year ago. Mr Dorrell was shown around the rest of the school, which included a visit to the greenhouse constucted entirely from old plasic bottles, which he found of particular interest. He then visited the soon to be completed new school library and new Foundation year toilets, before facing a ‘Question Time’ session in front of the whole school where children from each class stood up and spoke. I think even he was surprised at the confidence of the young people who stood in front of their peers and quizzed him on subjects as diverse as what was his favourite food, to how he thought the budget cuts would affect the schools in the local area. Mr Dorrell expressed how much he had enjoyed his visit and also how much he was looking forward to repeating it in the future.
Owen Lawrence
Go Learn at Groby Community College If you would like to improve your IT and Computing Skills, there is still time to enrol for our Tutor Led Clait Class which starts here at Groby Community College on Tuesday 23rd November 7 – 9.00 pm. The cost of the course is £145 for 15 weeks for full payers and you may be eligible for fee remission if you are in receipt of certain benefits. The course is an ITQ level 1 qualification and will introduce you to a range of computer skills that are widely used in the workplace and at home. This course is tutor led and you will be guided through units using handouts, textbooks and demonstrations. You’ll also get the chance to meet new friends.
If you would like to enrol or would like further information please telephone Jane, Pete or Lisa in our office on 0116 287 4725.
The man who recently fell into an upholstery machine is now fully recovered.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069 Project1:Layout 1 26/10/2010 11:22 Page 1
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Local walking group now has 70 members Walk With Groby are pleased to announce the registration of their 70th member , plus several dogs. We meet every Thursday morning at the Village Hall at 9.45am for 10.00am and go for a one hour walk with our trained leaders. There is also an up to two hours walk on the last Thursday in the month, plus an even longer three to four hour walk on the first Tuesday in the month. We walk in all weathers and therefore suitable clothing and footwear is very desirable as we walk in the woods, across fields and of course, local roads. After the one hour walk we join the Churches Together in Groby tea/coffee morning so please bring 50p for a hot drink and biscuit. Sometimes we go away from home and have walked places like Thornton Reservoir, Bradgate Park and Watermead Park. For those people who also enjoy Country Parks Walks there is now an excellent handbook available by the Leicestershire Footpath Association. It gives details of walks in 20 beautiful and varied country parks and nature reserves, which can be extended by using footpaths to and from nearby villages. Items of local and historical interest are described in introductions to each walk. Highlighted routes and numbers on maps link with the text to help you keep your place, plus bus routes, car parking and refreshment places. The book is available from the Tourist Information Centre, Town Hall Square, or Waterstones- price £7.99. Come and join us , we are a very friendly group and you will be made very welcome.
John Offord
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
St James the Least of All The Rev Dr Gary Bowness continues his tongue-in-cheek letters from ‘Uncle Eustace’…
On the perils of ‘passing the peace’ The Rectory St. James the Least of All
My dear Nephew Darren In some religions, women are obliged to sit on one side of the building and men on the other; would that there was a similar division between those who wish to “pass the peace” and those who do not. Separate buildings may be even better – preferably on different planets. I was genuinely grateful when you came to help at our special Service last week, but when I bawled from the safety of the sanctuary “peace be with you” I did not expect you to gallop down the nave embracing everyone in sight. Certainly, a few of our weaker brethren were enchanted, but the sturdy majority were quite traumatised. A generalised “good morning” to no one in particular when entering church and then a noncommittal nod to the sidesman when you leave is all that is required. That is more than enough familiarity. While you continued down the aisle like a galleon in full sail, Admiral Thomas, being an early recipient of your bonhomie, found it necessary to resort to his hip flask long before we even got to the sermon and others stood rigid in shock; after decades of attending church, someone had not only spoken to them but actually touched them. Several members are considering bringing a joint action against you for grievous bodily harm and Mr Parsons, who never attends church, is busy asking round the village, with a hint of menace, who assaulted his wife during divine worship. I know that in your own church, this period of communal groping forms an essential part of worship, generally lasting slightly longer than your half-hour sermons, but at St. James the Least, the peace remains firmly un-passed. You have also created a dangerous precedent. Dear Miss Timmins now waits at every service, ready to throw herself into the arms of any unfortunate who may so much as catch her eye. Others are on a hairtrigger, ready to drop to their knees and make it look as if they are in intense prayer, should anyone look as if they might approach with ulterior motives. It has also significantly reduced our collections. Many now suspect that someone approaching them with a plate may be using it as a ploy and once they get near, discard it to throw their arms around unsuspecting worshippers. Diversionary tactics such as rooting in handbags for handkerchiefs, bending down to check for mice droppings, or intense examination of the roof beams, mean that the collection plate remains empty. Perhaps next time, when you hear those fatal words, you keep your hands firmly in your pockets and your feet glued to the floor. It will come as a great relief to us all. Your loving uncle,
Eustace
Stamp Fair for LOROS This next Stamp Fair organised by Roger & Graham to be held on Sunday 21st November between 10am3pm at Newbold Verdon Primary School will be their last one. Free entry, raffle and light refreshments available. Please continue to donate stamps in the usual way as LOROS can still benefit from your donations. Thanks are sent to all supporters.
Most people who are as attractive, witty and intelligent as I am are usually conceited.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287-1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk NOTICE TO MEMBERS New Members Welcome Sat 13 Nov:Expressive Harmony Sun 14 Nov: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 19 Nov: TIMELESS Sat 20 Nov: WOODVILLE Trio Sun 21 Nov: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 26 Nov: AXIS DUO Sat 27 Nov: ALAN TURNER Sun 28 Nov: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 3 Dec: GABBY JORDAN Sat 4 Dec: TOTAL ECLIPSE Sun 5 Dec: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 10 Dec: MIKE TYLER Sat 11 Dec: NIGHTSHIFT Sun 12 Dec: Super Sunday ‘50’ (See Ad on P.7) The Stamford Arms Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 5616. Every SUN 3 ~ 6pm:‘GOOD TIME SUNDAY’* Sat 13 Nov: Mid-Life CRISIS *Sun 14 Nov: Mojo Hand Sat 20 Nov: TEENAGE KICKS *Sun 21 Nov: Fine Shape Sat 27 Nov: ANDREW RANDELL *Sun 28 Nov: Time Out Sat 4 Dec: SOULED OUT *Sun 5 Dec: The Acemen KARAOKE ~ Every Wed OPEN MIC ~Every Thurs QUIZ – General Knowledge + Find the Joker ~ EVERY Sun QUIZ – Music ~ EVERY Tues The Red Lion Inn 933 Loughborough Road, Rothley, LE7 7NJ T: 0116 230 2488 QUIZ NITE – Thurs 9pm
The Nag’s Head Station Road, Glenfield T: 0116 287 2794 Every THURS – QUIZ General Knowledge ~ Free to Enter. Win Beer. SKY SPORTS (See AD on P.19) The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 TRIBUTE Nights/£2 after 7pm (Fri 12 Nov: BRYAN ADAMS) Fri 26 Nov: TINA TURNER Fri 3 Dec: FREDDIE MERCURY Sat 4 Dec: ELVIS & Neil Diamond Old Thatched Inn Stanton-under-Bardon T:01530 242 460 Sun 14 Nov: KARAOKE 3pm. Every WED: - QUIZ Night & ‘PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT’ 8.30pm.Cash prizes 50p per Entry. Pool Table.(See Ad Page 5) The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sats: 13& 27 Nov (’King of the Road’) Sundays: QUIZ Night Bagworth WMC Station Road, Bagworth T: 01530 230 205 Fri 19 Nov: TICK TOCK ROCK (£3 on the door) Dance 8 till Late. Every Wed: Tea Dance 2-4pm £1 Incl.Tea & Biscuits.
Jottings
News in Brief with Norman Griffiths
Gloom over Bloors appeal The planning Inspector has heard all the evidence submitted as part of the appeal by Bloors Homes against the refusal of planning permission for their site next to Groby cemetery and has made site visits. His decision is now awaited. The view amongst those who attended the appeal proceedings at Hinckley is that the outlook is not good, and the odds have been put at a one in ten chance of success. If the decision goes in favour of the local community it will probably be on the issues of land drainage and highways. In the meantime the Council is considering taking out an injunction to prevent any development of the site until the Village Green issue is resolved. Residents are being asked to come forward with evidence of use, photographs and local information relating to the history of the site. Anything that can be classed at leisure or sport or pastimes would be helpful and this could include activities such as kite flying, dog walking, horse riding (after the stables closed), camping, picnicking, just walking about or picking blackberries etc.
Santander comes to Groby Although miles apart the people of Leicester and Brighton may have shared a common thought in recent weeks as they reflected on the final removal of the vestiges of the Alliance and Leicester brand from their streets. Here in Groby the Santander sign stands out as little bit of Spain on Ratby Road. Before they merged the Alliance and the Leicester building societies stood proudly each side of Town Hall Square. The Leicester Building Society roots date back to the creation in the mid 19th century of the Leicester Permanent and the Leicester Temperance Societies. The Alliance name was chosen in 1945 for the building society that was created after Brighton & Sussex Equitable Building Society had amalgamated with a number of smaller local societies and has a pedigree dating back to 1873. But times change and the commonly held view was that the building society movement had to change as well. Demutualisation became the name of the game with payouts for members, stock market quotes and free shares to ensure a ‘yes’ vote. The future looked bright but the end came quickly and well known names such as the Halifax, Abbey, Bradford and Bingley, and Alliance and Leicester fell like dominoes. Some of those who were loyal and held onto their shares saw their value drop or disappear. But there is good news. Although the sign on Ratby Road says Santander when you step inside you’ll find that the one thing that hasn’t changed is the welcome you receive.
Helicopter visits The lights went on in Groby on October 30th when the sleep of residents was disturbed by the police helicopter, and there has been speculation about what was happening. Some reports circulating in the village suggest it was anti-social behaviour in the Marina Park area whilst others say a car had been stolen. The next time you have to make a cup of tea in the early hours remind yourself to check on http://helicopter.leics.police.uk/where, a useful google map that shows where the helicopter has been. The first visit on October 30th to the A46 area came at half past midnight and was a response to a theft report. This was followed about an hour later and involved a stolen vehicle on Highfield Road.
On street parking Representatives of the Parish and County Councils have now met to discuss proposals for additional parking restrictions in the village. The County is considering the suggestions made and will bring back an updated plan which will then be put out for public consultation.
To me, old age is always fifteen years older than I am.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Gardening Society News Renewing our acquaintance with Barnsdale A couple of years ago, we used our June meeting to take a bus load of members to visit Barnsdale Gardens near Rutland Water. At our October meeting we welcomed Nick Hamilton, the owner of these gardens. His famous father, Geoff Hamilton, planned and planted them many rears ago. Nick gave a slide show in which he was showcasing his favourite trees and shrubs for a colourful winter garden. Whilst some examples would need extensive grounds to flourish, many were very suitable for small gardens. Nick delivered his talk with enthusiasm and not a little professionalism. The readiness with which the Latin names for his exemplar plants tripped off his tongue impressed all. To back up his talk, lots of plants were made available for sale, many at very reasonable prices.
Our Christmas Meeting Some weeks ago our membership decided to keep the usual format for our December meeting. This entails a faith supper and, hopefully, an entertaining speaker. Members present at the October and November meetings were able to record what item(s) of food they would be contributing. If any members were unable to be present on these occasions, they can contact Alvar to see what is left to obtain. However, if members have been unable to contribute items of food, this does not mean they cannot attend! The tables are usually groaning with the weight of food and the more, is definitely, the merrier!
Looking ahead Details have yet to be confirmed, but next year we hope to have visits to The Shrewsbury Flower Show, the garden at Hebb’s Farm, The green composting site at Lount and, of course, our two day/overnight stay.
Forth coming events • December 9th “Christmas Buffet Supper with humorous Monologue Recitals” January 13th (2011) “The Annual General Meeting” • February 10th “Bees and the Gardener” • We always welcome new members and casual guests at our monthly meetings that are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month, usually in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill. Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Alvar Johnson. (Tel. No. 01162877870) or E mail alvar3@talktalk.net
Alvar Johnson
Could you be a school governor? A recruitment drive by Leicestershire County Council to encourage members of the public to become school governors has been a huge success – but more are still needed. The number of vacant local authority governor positions in Leicestershire has been reduced from 100 (14.9%) to 30 (4.5%). The national average is a 10.5% vacancy rate. Leicestershire County Council launched the campaign earlier this year. It aimed to raise the profile of a need for more governors by advertising in the local media and through posters and leaflets available in libraries and other community venues. Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Children and Young People’s Service, said: “The response we have received has been fantastic and I am delighted that more people want to influence what is happening in their schools. “Governors have a tremendously important role. Schools with a full complement of governors, with a variety of skills, have helped to drive forward the continuing improvement in standards at our schools.” Marie Feeley has been a governor at Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Loughborough for five years. She said: “Being a governor is one of the most worthwhile things I have ever done. It is sometimes challenging but also very rewarding. “I would definitely encourage other parents or members of the local community to become school governors.” There are still vacancies at schools across the county and Leicestershire County Council encourages anyone with an interest in becoming a school governor to come forward. The County Council holds induction sessions to give an initial overview of a governor’s role and responsibilities. This is then followed up with ongoing training to keep governors up to date with new legislation and initiatives. School governors are unpaid and do not need any special qualifications – enthusiasm and commitment are most important.
To find out more about becoming a school governor, please visit the County Council’s website at: www.leics.gov.uk/governors or call 0116 305 6435. Alternatively, people can contact their local school. A politician will always be there when he needs you.
Advanced Watercolours Painting Group There are still spaces available for a painting group aimed at more advanced students who want to improve their skills with people of the same level. Local artist Mark Wilde has be running his Watercolours Advanced group for many years at Groby Village Hall and is inviting others to come and join in. Students must have knowledge of all the basic skills and a desire to try more advanced methods and techniques. Acrylics and pen and wash are also features of the class, which is run in a friendly, workshop atmosphere. The 12 week class, which takes place from 7-9pm on Wednesday nights, begins on Wednesday 12 January at Groby Village Hall. Fees are £54 (£43 reduced). For more information, please ring Mark on 01509 673064.
Newtown Linford Choral Society “The Armed Man” A Mass for Peace
Tickets are now available for the Choral Society’s winter concert, which will be held in Ratby Church on Friday 28 January and Saturday 29 January 2011. At the concert the Choral Society will be performing ‘The Armed Man’. This is a stirring contemporary piece written by composer Karl Jenkins, who has an unusual background of classical music, jazz, advertising music and as a member of the rock group Soft Machine. It is subtitled ‘A Mass for Peace’ and was commissioned for the Millennium celebrations. Since than it has been performed all over the world to immense acclaim from audiences. The Choral Society is looking forward to the concert, where it will be accompanied by a full orchestra, and professional soprano soloist Sarah Stephens. Tickets are priced at £9, and are available from Peter Sayer 01530 243822, Newtown Linford Village Stores and any member of the Choir.
Iris Sayer
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
It’s amazing how long it takes to complete something you’re not working on.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Newtown Linford Village Hall, Main Street. Saturday 27th November.
11am-12 = Santa’s Village Tour.
12 -4.30pm = Shopping Experience and Santa’s Grotto.
Traditional Christmas Fayre Santa Claus will be touring the village whilst the church bells ring, with sweets for all the children who greet him, he will then visit The Village Hall on Main Street, where his Grotto will be for children to meet him for Presents and Photo’s. This will also be a wonderful event for doing all your Christmas Shopping, whilst enjoying a Glass of Mulled Wine and a Mince Pie and listen to the local Choir singing Carols. The purchase of a Raffle Ticket is also a must, as the prizes are amazing, including: M&S Hamper (Donated by CasePak) The Crown, Anstey, Voucher Broughtons Interiors, Voucher Cooks Farm Shop, Vouchers Post Office Tea Rooms, Vouchers The Grey Lady, Voucher. The Village, Voucher Christmas Tree (Donated by Malc Brewin) Sykes Jewellers Stonehurst Farm Park ‘Land Scape’ £250 Mini Garden Makeover Conkers
Admission - 50p Contact Amanda on 07973 891399
All proceeds to Cancer Research. Santa Tour in Memory of Malcolm Gibbins. Thank-you to all Donators and Volunteers.
I’m busier than a one-toothed man in a corn-on-the-cob eating contest.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Join the Big Conversation on the Big Society at Bosworth Community Forum A number of interactive meetings are giving residents the chance to keep up to speed with local issues and get involved in shaping where they live. This month, we will be holding the Bosworth Community Forum where all residents will have the opportunity to hear from local councils, health and police, get answers to queries and influence local decision-making. Details of the meetings are: Thursday 18 November 2010, 7-9pm at Bosworth Battlefield Visitor Centre, Ambion Lane Sutton Cheney, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV13 0AD. Items for discussion include: recycling, proposals for the use and development of land in your area (Local Development Framework) and there will also be a special workshop on the Big Society. Over 5,000 people have taken part in the 27 forums across Leicestershire since they started in January 2008 - topics covered include services for older people, anti-social behaviour, eco-town proposals, grants, development
plans, lorry routes, tackling crime, transport, housing, jobs, loan sharks, roads, community hospitals plus much more. David Parsons, Leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: “We believe in providing great public services and value for money, but we are always keen to improve these further. “We want to talk to the people who actually use these services to find out what they really think. Please come along to these meetings, they are your chance to talk to senior officers and politicians and to give them real views on your area. Kevin Morrell, Chair of Bosworth Community Forum, said: “I am very enthusiastic about the Bosworth Community Forum, it is a great way for local people and parishes to get involved and make a real difference in their communities.” For information about what is on the agenda at your local forum, please visit www. leicestershireforums.org/boswth/ or call 0116 305 7565. • A community forum is a meeting place for residents, local businesses, voluntary and community groups, councillors and service providers.
Annual Tap Dancing Show The Murray-West Tap dancing group are holding their annual tap dancing show on Saturday 27th at 7.30pm at Babington Community College, Strasbourg Drive, Leicester. Tickets are priced at £5 and all proceeds will go to the Rainbows Hospice. The show will be fun packed and in addition to the tap dancing numbers it will include various musical items, comedy sketches etc. Please come and support us, I am sure you will have a most enjoyable evening. Anyone interested in joining our group, we meet every Tuesday evening with classes starting at 6pm until 8pm in St Mary’s Church Rooms, Anstey. Tap dancing is very good exercise and a fun way to spend an evening. For further details contact Lynn West on 0116 221 1024.
There are 27 forums across Leicestershire which bring together elected representatives across all tiers of local government - County, District and Borough and Parish, together with a range of other community representatives. Community forums involve Leicestershire County Council, District and Borough Councils, NHS Leicestershire County and Rutland, Leicestershire Police and Leicestershire Together partners. Although they do not have formal decision-making powers, forums are important bodies of influence - there is a ‘duty to respond’ to actions recommended.
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Major drop in music lending at libraries Lending of music CDs at UK libraries has plummeted by 42 per cent in the last five years, according to the latest survey from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA). CIPFA’s annual survey of public libraries across the UK shows that library music issues has dropped from 8.4m in 2005-06 to 4.9m in 2009-10 - a drop of 42 per cent. Book issues over the same period went down by just 4.2 per cent. The survey also reveals a league table of the country’s most-visited libraries, topped by the Norfolk and Norwich Millennium library. The Norwich-based library had 1,497,760 visitors in 2009–10, issuing 1,154,563 books and other items over twelve months. The next most visited library, Birmingham Central Library, attracted 1,452,150 visitors over the same period. Chris Greene, CIPFA’s Head of Research and Statistics said: “The UK’s libraries are as relevant to their communities as ever. But whilst many facilities continue to attract high visitor numbers, far fewer library users are borrowing music CDs compared to five years ago. With more people than ever downloading music from the internet, the way many people access music has changed
fundamentally”.
One-Day Jewellery & Handbag Sale at Little Acorns Tea Rooms If you are in the vicinity of Groby Pool on Saturday 20th November you may enjoy a visit to ‘Little Acorns’ the Restaurant/Tea Rooms within Sevenoaks Garden Centre. Not only would you be able to warm yourselves with a bowl of homemade soup but could view a lovely selection of Jewellery and Designer Handbags and Purses on sale in good time for the Christmas season. Natasha will set up the display for 11am and stay until 3.30pm.
If you think there is good in everybody then you obviously haven’t met everybody.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
B
arbara rushed in from work at 5pm on Christmas Eve. She worked in the accounts office of a local business and, along with all the other staff, had expected the manager to release them early in the afternoon. Oh how wrong they had all been. The manager, whose wife stayed at home looking after their two young children, didn’t suffer from Christmas stress and couldn’t understand what all the fuss and rush was about. Barbara imagined that he went home and found the housed cleaned, parcels wrapped and sent to Santa, Christmas Day lunch in the process of preparation, etc. He went off, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, quite oblivious to their outrage. Well now the shops were shut. It was too late to buy those last minute forgotten items; they were usually quite insignificant anyway. In Barbara’s case it wasn’t anything too important ... just the turkey! She was 53 years old, had three married children and two grandchildren plus two ageing parents, an ancient aunt and a divorced brother, not forgetting the husband. They would all be there again, arriving for their traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. The number of guests was always about the same and they even knew exactly where to sit at Barbara’s table. So she was no novice at this and had absolutely no excuse for completely forgetting to order the bird. She had made countless lists and ticked off items as she bought them or as she completed necessary tasks. She had cleaned the
A Surprising Christmas Guest The Winning Short Story by Local Writer GAIL ARMSON
windows. She had polished the furniture. She’d had the carpets steam cleaned. She had been smug with herself remembering to order, online, her shopping early enough to get a slot for delivery the evening before Christmas Eve. The best glasses were on a tray along with the new bottles of sherry, port, gin, whiskey and brandy and the spare rooms were ready for the stopovers. She just needed to drag the tree into position, throw some decorations on it, and prepare the turkey ready to pop into a hot oven in the morning. But there was the rub - there was no turkey. She stood in the middle of the
kitchen floor and bit hard onto her clenched knuckles. Panic wouldn’t resolve the situation, nor would a large glass of wine, but she poured one out and drank it anyway. She wandered over to the kitchen cupboards, draining the glass, and opened each one in turn peering at the laden shelves within, moving items to one side, staring hopelessly towards the back, looking for something that might make a suitable replacement for the absent turkey. The best alternative she found was a tin of Plumrose Rolled Ham, a left over item from a hamper the previous year. Turning the little tin in her hand, reading the label, she sighed and returned it to the cupboard making a mental note to let next door’s dog have it as a Christmas treat. OH CRIKEY! She poured another very large glug of wine into the glass and took a big gulp. Barbara imagined the horror on her husband’s face when he realised there would be no meat on his plate. He was a meat and two veg sort of husband and didn’t consider a meal was a meal if it
didn’t include meat. Barbara was a vegetarian so she wouldn’t miss the turkey anyway. The Luxury Nut Roast, with Cashews, was already in the bottom of the fridge just waiting to go into the oven. But the husband well... his face would be incredulous. Barbara felt a giggle bubbling up and tried to quell the feeling; this was just too serious a situation. The giggle gathered strength and burst out, turning into a hysterical laugh. She just couldn’t stop and the more she tried the more hysterical she became. The tears of laughter were falling when she heard the front door close and the husband shouted a cheery “Hello”. Barbara straightened up from her collapsed position on the kitchen worktop, her hair rather dishevelled, and the slightly drunken looking smile slid from her face. She turned towards the doorway and managed quite unintentionally to look upset and distraught. The husband rushed forward and held her arms tightly, looking down at her tear stained face. “Barbara, whatever is the matter? What’s happened?” She shook her head and swiftly assured him that everything was O.K. He gave her a kiss on top of the head and thought no more about the obvious emotional episode. He knew better than to ask too much; there had been many an emotional outburst during the last couple of years and he had been informed, on a number of occasions, that it was just the change. “Hey, I’ve had a bit of good luck tonight, love. The lads bought some raffle tickets in the pub the other week and one of my tickets got pulled out. I’ve won a turkey. It’s not frozen and I think it’s free range! It’s going to be delivered early tomorrow morning; I just had to ring to confirm our address.”
ANSTEY & DISTRICT FUNERAL SERVICES
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT
As part of our aftercare service, we now offer a monthly Bereavement Aftercare & Support Group, which has been set up to provide a FREE support service, not just to our clients, but to ANY bereaved person, irrespective of their age, creed, religion and length of bereavement. The group meets on the 3rd Saturday of every month in the catering suite at Anstey & District Funeral Services between 10am and 12noon.
Next dates: Sat 20th November & Sat 18th December ARRAN BRUDENELL, Tel: 0116 234 0548
Gargling is a good way to see if your throat leaks.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069 Barbara spun around. “What?!” “I thought you’d be pleased love. We could put it in the freezer and have it for dinner on New Year.” “That’s fantastic. I can’t believe it! Let me tell you about the little blip with the Christmas preparations.” She laughed and planted a big smacking kiss on his cheek. “I’ll never ask you not to spend so much time in the local again.” Christmas morning dawned with frosty winter sunshine. Everything was ready, just the turkey to arrive, be stuffed and popped into the oven. They wouldn’t be eating until three o’clock so there was still plenty of time. She went into the shower and left the husband on standby to take in the raffle prize delivery. Later, walking downstairs, she found him in the hallway carefully scrutinising his winning raffle ticket. “Oh no,” cried Barbara, “It wasn’t a mistake was it?” The husband shook his head and replied, “No love, it wasn’t a mistake.” He led her to the back door leading out to the garden and, pushing the raffle ticket into her
hand, stepped to one side. There, resplendent in all its plumage, was the turkey, very large and “OH MY GOD!” very much alive, staring up at them, quizzically holding its head on one side. Barbara looked at the little bright eyes staring back at her and then down at the ticket. Woodville Animal Rescue Charity Prize Draw. ‘A Turkey is NOT Just for Christmas’ 10 prizes each of a Rescued Battery Farm Turkey (Prize includes one month’s feed) “They asked if we wanted any more. Apparently some people just gave them money instead of accepting their prize and said they didn’t want to take on ownership. I thought we might call him Trevor. What do you think?” asked the husband. Barbara turned away and wandered dreamlike back to the kitchen. She opened the fridge and pulled out the Luxury Nut Roast with Cashews. “Come on my beauty - let’s see how far you will stretch!”
The Chaplins/Groby & Field Head Spotlight Short Story Competition During the Summer, Margaret Chaplin of Chaplins Butchers in Groby contacted the Spotlight to say that she would like to sponsor a Short Story Competition in the magazine. The competition was announced in our September issue, and over the following few weeks, we received a dozen entries. We had great fun reading the various stories - all written about ‘A Surprising Christmas Guest’- and we engaged well-known local writer Lindy Hardcastle to carry out the official judging.
What judge Lindy said ... “I really enjoyed reading the entries for the short story competition. “The quality was very high and the range of subjects was extraordinary given the limiting brief of a Christmas Visitor - from farce to high drama. “It was difficult to choose a winner from such a varied menu, but in the end it was comedy that won me over - a classic short story with not just one twist but two that I’m sure you will all enjoy.”
Lindy Hardcastle
And the winner is ...
The winning story was written by Gail Armson who wins a Christmas Hamper, kindly donated by Chaplins Butchers of Groby PLUS a £20 Gift Voucher donated by Groby & Field Head Spotlight. The runner up was Sarah Crawley who wins a £10 Gift Voucher donated by Groby & Field Head Spotlight. Thank you to everyone who entered the competition, and to Margaret Chaplin for coming up with the idea and providing the main prize.
Beat the five o’clock rush. Leave work at noon.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Ideas for living and giving… Christmas Gifts now in stock! From as little as £4.95 – traditional designs for those people that have everything! PLUS: � Table ware � Lamps � Home ware � Furniture � Gifts galore � Trinkets and vases � Christmas decorations � Fashion beaded jewellery
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PLUS!!! Coffee Shop with tables up and downstairs serving all day www.broughtonsinteriors.co.uk
My family was so poor that the lady next door gave birth to me.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
What’s New on DVD A Selection of New and Future Releases
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FENCING
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Could you be the next Mike Smash?
Your chance to get on air
A Christmas Carol (PG) Writer/director Robert Zemeckis adapts Charles Dickens’ classic festive tale A CHRISTMAS CAROL as a star vehicle for Jim Carrey in this performance capture/Disney Digital 3-D animated film for all ages. Carrey not only takes on the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, but all of the three ghosts who come to haunt him as well. The fantastical morality play takes audiences on a thrill ride through Dickensian London, as it tells the story of grouchy Scrooge and his refusal to embrace the Christmas spirit.
Sorcerer’s Apprentice (PG) Balthazar Blake (Nicolas Cage) is a master sorcerer in modern-day Manhattan trying to defend the city from his arch-nemesis, Maxim Horvath (Alfred Molina). Balthazar can’t do it alone, so he recruits Dave Stutler (Jay Baruchel), a seemingly average guy who demonstrates hidden potential, as his reluctant protégé. The sorcerer gives his unwilling accomplice a crash course in the art and science of magic, and together, these unlikely partners work to stop the forces of darkness. It’ll take all the courage Dave can muster to survive his training, save the city and get the girl as he becomes The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.
Toy Story 3 (PG) The creators of the beloved Toy Story films re-open the toy box and bring moviegoers back to the delightful world of Woody, Buzz and our favourite gang of toy characters in Toy Story 3. Woody and Buzz had accepted that their owner Andy would grow up someday, but what happens when that day arrives? In the third instalment, Andy is preparing to depart for college, leaving his loyal toys troubled about their uncertain future.
The Karate Kid (PG) Twelve-yearold Dre Parker could have been the most popular kid in Detroit, but his mother’s latest career move has landed him in China. He falls for his classmate Mei Ying but cultural differences make such a friendship impossible. Even worse, he makes an enemy of the class bully. Dre turns to maintenance man Mr.Han, who teaches him the art of Kung Fu.
Step Up 3 A tight-knit group of New York City street dancers find themselves pitted against the world’s best hip hop dancers in a high stakes showdown that will change their lives forever.
Inception (12) Acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight) directs an international cast in this sci-fi actioner that travels around the globe and into the world of dreams. Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) is the best there is at extraction: stealing valuable secrets inside the subconscious during the mind’s vulnerable dream state. His skill has made him a coveted player in industrial espionage but also has made him a fugitive and cost him dearly. Now he may get a second chance if he can do the impossible: inception, planting an idea rather than stealing one. If they succeed, Cobb and his team could pull off the perfect crime. But no planning or expertise can prepare them for a dangerous enemy that seems to predict their every move. An enemy only Cobb could have seen coming.
People in North West Leicestershire can learn about being a radio presenter – thanks to a £10,000 Community Forum Grant. The grant has enabled Hermitage FM to increase its studio space and train up to 300 volunteers to improve their job prospects and develop their interest in broadcasting. Jon Sketchley, Hermitage FM, Station Manager, said: Hermitage FM is the new community radio station serving North West Leicestershire. Our transmissions have served the community for almost a year and this has resulted in a high level of interest in training to be a presenter. Our new studio located in Hotel Street provides the perfect opportunity for up and coming presenters to learn on-air skills. Training courses are being held on Monday and Wednesday evenings with groups of four to five trainees. This opportunity is available to all age groups and can result in being part of the on-air team broadcasting on 99.2 FM to North West Leicestershire. Without the help of the Community Forum it would not have been possible to have this facility.” As well as the training facility, Hermitage can now also provide a comfortable meeting space, with refreshments, for individuals and local groups. Hermitage FM pitched the idea for the training facility to local residents at the Coalville Community Forum as a part of the Participatory Budgeting process. The residents liked the idea enough to give it the largest allocation of the money available. Danny Massingham, trainee, said: The training facility at Hotel Street is excellent and has given me the opportunity to work in an area which was previously unavailable. I hope to be a volunteer and work with the on-air team at Hermitage FM presenting my own programme.” For more information, telephone Hermitage FM on 01530 460992.
Composting your tea bags What do you do with your used tea bags? For years gardeners have been told that it is good to compost them. Now it seems that you need to rip them open first. According to Which?Gardening, tea bags have polypropylene in them, which does not compost. So – rip them open to let the goodness out.
I’ve named my car ‘Flattery’ because it gets me nowhere.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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CARS WORDSEARCH 1st Prize: £20 Lunch Voucher to spend at Broughtons Luxury Coffee Lounge in Anstey! Word Search Puzzle 2nd Prize: A £10 DVD Hire
Voucher to Spend at Glenfield Moviezone!
T D S U A D I T A R E S A M S
E H T P S E Z O Q O S A A B R
L W S R T T Q C E O T A D J M
O Z L G O P A M E M F C O E P
R L P A N E O H Z L W G R O P
V X T O M R E W I D G C B Q L
E K E M A B U C Z A E I O P A
H I X F R S O O S D D F R L N
C P L L T G G R E A E W K L C
S A U W I H C S G R B O F V I
U K Z K N N B U R H D B H N A
T A O M J E L A L R I U D K R
Y A K D N L R U V H V N L R V
A C U Z A I K P U H R D I U G
R O L L S R O Y C E D R K X M
Name: .................................................................................................
ALFAROMEO ASTONMARTIN Address: ................................................................................................ CHEVROLET DAIHATSU .................................................................Postcode: ............................. FERRARI IfLAMBORGHINI you can spot TWELVE MAKES OF CAR in the Wordsearch grid above, you could win a £20 Lunch Voucher to spend at LANCIA Broughtons MASERATILuxury Coffee lounge in Anstey (see ad on page 22 ) MERCEDESBENZ - or a £10 DVD Hire Voucher to spend at Glenfield Moviezone (see ad on page 9). ROLLSROYCE All you SAABhave to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line through - 12 makes of car. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally SKODA
(and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: MOTORS, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 27th November 2010. Please remember to fill in your name and address. The sender of the first correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the Broughtons Lunch Voucher and the sender of the second will win the Moviezone DVD hire voucher. Good luck!
Come and help at your local nature reserve The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust are looking for volunteers to join the Ulverscroft work party at the beautiful Ulverscroft Nature Reserve, near Markfield. The group meet on the first Sunday of the month from 9.00 am until midday throughout the year. Come and help carry out a variety of activities such as removing scrub from the important heath grasslands, paths maintenance or work in the woodlands. Winter is a busy time of year on the reserve as we make the most of being able to carry out practical tasks without disturbing nesting birds or damaging any wild flowers. As well as learning new practical skills, you will also learn more about how this nature reserve is managed and the wide variety of wildlife that can be found there. Group leader Steve Woodward says “Getting up on a winter morning to cut gorse or brambles might not seem appealing - but it is actually very enjoyable, it keeps you fit and there’s a good chance of seeing some special wildlife - on the November work party we found the nest of a harvest mouse.” No previous experience is necessary but you need to be over 18 years of age and reasonably fit. You will also need to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and suitable footwear for uneven and muddy conditions. You will be provided with tools and gloves and shown how to use the tools safely.
For more details, please contact Nathalie on 0116 272 8853 or e-mail Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com ncossa@lrwt.org.uk
Here are the 12 MAKES OF CAR you have to find: ALFA ROMEO • ASTON MARTIN • CHEVROLET • DAIHATSU FERRARI • LAMBORGHINI • LANCIA • MASERATI MERCEDES BENZ • ROLLS ROYCE • SAAB • SKODA Last issue’s first prize winner was MRS. JANET BREWIN of Markfield Road, Groby. You win a A Main Course for Two and a Bottle of House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel. The winner of the second prize - a £10 DVD Hire Voucher to spend at Glenfield MovieZone - was MR. M.E. SMITH of Highfield Road, Groby. Congratulations! Your vouchers will be with you within 21 days.
I wanted to be a country singer but I took the test and I had too much self-esteem.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
September Groby WI News from Margaret Gamble This month was going to be perfect. Julie, our President, was on holiday so yours truly was taking the meeting. I had it all worked out, it was going to be great but as usual my plans didn’t quite go to plan. At home I had found a CD with Jerusalem on it. Julie has one of these modern things where she just presses something and lo and behold, we have a WI mass choir at the Albert Hall which sounds great. Mine, had just an ordinary choir, was set up on an old fashioned type of machine and I had asked a friend to just press the button, easy. After the first verse there is a gap when music is played before the second. Yes, you have guessed it, in the quiet in between verses, the choir was heard still singing the first verse, vocally speaking we came in first. Hence, an audience of helplessly laughing ladies having a job to finish the anthem. I brought them to order with my Victorian truncheon which I just happened to have handy. Luckily I had handcuffed Jean, my vice-secretary just in case she did a runner after that episode. (It was a Victorian competition that night and I entered my husband’s grandfather’s truncheon and handcuffs – I got third in the competition.) After settling down, doing the usual business, we had our speaker, Mrs. Carol Walker. Carol’s talk was on a lady hardly anyone had heard of which is amazing as this lady is regarded as a saint in Australia. Caroline Chisholm was the first person to set up a women’s home in Australia and she set up the first set of workers’ contracts. Her husband had taken her to Australia where she saw young women, who sailed in terrible conditions, to try to find work in that colony which was still receiving convicts. Within two years of setting up the women’s home, Caroline had found homes and jobs for over 1000 women. In her total time of running the women’s home, Caroline Chisholm housed and found decent jobs for over 11000 migrants mainly women. In recognition her portrait was placed on the five dollar bill in Australia for more than 20 years before being replaced by the Queen of England. • One of our members went to Denman College for a couple of days. Denman is near Oxford and is the WI’s own College. It is a lovely old manor house, bedrooms are designed and furnished by WI members, giving a unique feel to each room. Our member did a course on Mediterranean cooking. She really enjoyed herself but the course tutor really worked them hard. Denman have top notch tutors for loads of subjects. James Martin has demonstrated there and the 2010 Masterchef Champion, Dhruv Baker is due a visit. • Our ever popular Luncheon Club was again at Earl Shilton, no lack of appetites here. Over 30 members went to a performance of another old favourite, “Hot Stuff ”. As usual it went down a treat. Next month is our AGM, it should be a rather formal affair but I can guarantee ours will turn out to be anything but. We also have the very welcome Glenfield Country Market who usually bring a lovely selection of homemade goodies and crafts. Again we are at our usual venue, the Village Hall, 7.10pm for 7.30pm.
Margaret Gamble
Never pick your nose when working with superglue.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Garden Bird Watching
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The last few months have seen a change in the pattern of birds visiting the different feeding stations from previous years. During the main breeding season the Blackbirds, Tits, House Sparrows and Chaffinches were regular visitors and the amount of food had to be replenished daily. The Blackbird nesting in the garden did rear its family and it was a treat to see the different ways they entered the bush, to protect the young, when taking in the food. The second week in August saw all the Blackbirds and most of the Tits leave my feeding stations and they have still not returned. On positive note, I mentioned in the spring that the House Sparrow colony had been decimated during the winter. I am delighted that this year must have been a good breeding season for them as the colony has now increased from 6 to 26 plus. It is hard to get an accurate picture as they are in and out of the hedge next to feeding station like “jack in the boxes”. The Goldfinches had a rocky start with only one fledgling surviving from each of the two pair. The second brood proved more successful and by midSeptember there were more than 18 goldfinches (6 with adult plumage) at any one time visiting the garden three times a day. The fledglings were brought to nearby trees and as usual I was entranced to watch the adults calling the fledglings to the food. At first the fledglings would eat the seed which had fallen onto the feed holder tray and then over a couple of weeks they learnt to use the perches. This process never ceases to enthral. Other birds visiting the garden include the Nuthatch, Robin, Coal Tits, Blue Tits, Dunnocks, Collared Doves and Greenfinches. I wrote some time ago about getting a bird bath and that it was not being used. This year the Sparrows in particular have used it regularly and I have seen up to 6 all trying to bath at the same time with water flying everywhere, it really is comical. With winter approaching remember if you buy peanuts in a plastic mesh bag please empty the nuts into a wire mesh holder. Birds can damage their beaks and claws/legs if they get caught in the plastic and although you may not see the damage the bird may go away and starve to death. I am now looking forward to the return of the Blackbirds - some of which may be migrants - and the Redpoll. Enjoy your autumn and winter bird watching.
Margaret Purves I’ve given up reading books. I find it takes my mind off myself.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Big Knit – Small Miracle This year’s deadline for handing in the little hats for Age Concern Leicester Shire & Rutland’s Big Knit has now passed. Hundreds of people have responded magnificently to the appeal to knit the bobble hats that are appearing on the Innocent Smoothies in Sainsburys’ and Boots stores in early November. An unbelievable total of 31,700 hats was delivered in time - worth a fantastic £7,925 to the charity. (Last year they were thrilled with 12,000 knitted items!) Anthony Donovan (Executive Director) said; “A really big thank you to everyone who helped to make this such a great success. It will help us to keep vulnerable local older people warm this winter”.
Christmas Craft Fair at The Palace The next Craft Fair to be held in Ibstock at The Palace will take place on 4th Dec from 10am – 3pm. This is a regular event on the first Saturday of each month. Admission is FREE. There will be a large variety of interesting stalls well suited for Christmas Presents including: Jewellery, Wooden Toys, Hand-Knitted goods, Ceramics, Cookies, Kitchen Linen, Books, Pearls, Bags plus Craft Supplies, Cupcakes, Farm Produce, Fair Trade and much more. The Palace is located at 57 High Street, Ibstock LE67 6LH and has a public car park opposite the main entrance.
Grave certainties
As a bagpiper, I play many gigs. Recently I was asked by a funeral director to play at a graveside service for a homeless man with no family or friends. The service was to be at a cemetery some distance away. As I was not familiar with the area, I got lost, and finally arrived an hour late. The funeral director and hearse were long gone. There were only the diggers left and they were eating lunch. I went to the side of the grave and looked down. The lid was partially covered with soil. The diggers stared at me over their sandwiches, and I sensed their reproach that I had deserted this dead man in his final hour of need. I didn’t know what else to do, so I started to play. The diggers looked quite startled at this, and put down their lunches. But they stood quietly enough while I played out my heart and soul for this man with no family and friends. And as I played ‘Amazing Grace,’ the workers began to weep. They wept, I wept, we all wept together. When I finished, I packed up my bagpipes and started for my car. Though my head hung low, my heart was full. As I opened the door to my car, I heard one of the workers say, “I never seen nothin’ like that before and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.” Apparently I’m still lost....
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BOOKSPOT Full Dark, No Stars By Stephen King AMAZON PRICE: £7.60 (Hardcover) ‘I believe there is another man inside every man, a stranger...’ writes Wilfred Leland James in the early pages of the riveting confession that makes up ‘1922’, the first in this pitch-black quartet of mesmerising tales from Stephen King, linked by the theme of retribution. For James, that stranger is awakened when his wife Arlette proposes selling off the family homestead and moving to Omaha, setting in motion a gruesome train of murder and madness. In ‘Big Driver’, a cozy-mystery writer named Tess encounters the stranger is along a back road in Massachusetts when she takes a shortcut home after a book-club engagement. Violated and left for dead, Tess plots a revenge that will bring her face to face with another stranger: the one inside herself. ‘Fair Extension’, the shortest of these tales, is perhaps the nastiest and certainly the funniest. Making a deal with the devil not only saves Harry Streeter from a fatal cancer but provides rich recompense for a lifetime of resentment. When her husband of more than twenty years is away on one of his business trips, Darcy Anderson looks for batteries in the garage. Her toe knocks up against a box under a worktable and she discovers the stranger inside her husband. It’s a horrifying discovery, rendered with bristling intensity, and it definitively ends ‘A Good Marriage’.
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If you don’t like my opinion of you, you can always improve.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Anstey & District Funeral Service
Christmas Fayre Saturday 27th November Bagworth Community Centre
11am – 2pm
Independent Family-Run Funeral Directors
We take care of every detail, advise and help you every step of the way.
Visit Santa Claus and have your photo taken with him.
• •
Light Lunches and refreshments served Tombola, cakes, raffle and lots more…
Craft Tables available £10 ~ for more information contact Robert Holmes 01530 231901
Don’t miss the Christmas Market at Markfield Court
• • • •
A Christmas Market will be held at Markfield Court Retirement Village, off Ratby Lane, Markfield, on Saturday 20th November from 10:30am to 2:00pm. A variety of activities and stalls will be available including shoes & slippers, tombola, raffle, gifts, cakes, knitwear, etc. There will also be a “flea market” of second hand toys, clothing, books and bric-a-brac. Snacks will be available. Everyone is very welcome.
Mavis Hollingbery
Traditional hearse & fleet Horse drawn carriages, motorcycle hearse & alternatives available Memorial showroom Extensive car parking Private catering suite Private chapels of rest Funeral arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home if preferred
0116 234 0548 Talbott House, Leicester Road, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7AT
www.ansteyfunerals.com
Churches Together in Groby Fair Cuppa: an opportunity to meet with friends at the village hall. All tea/coffee is fairtrade Every Thursday, 10.00—11.30am.
Catch
Play, craft, story & chat for pre-school
children with a parent/carer. Every Friday in term time, 10.00 – 12noon
Remembrance Service (CTG) 10.50am on Sunday 14th Nov at St Philip & St. James
Urban Saints During term time, held at the URC chapel: games, friends, crafts and a Christian basis to discussions. - for 5’s to 14’s on Mon evenings at 3.45pm, 6.30pm or 7.45pm - for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm - for 15-18’s o Fri at 7.30pm More details on the church websites Sunday services: please see websites and church magazines St. Philip and St. James www.bradgateteam.org.uk Revd. Louise Corke 231 3090 United Reformed Church www.grobyurc.org.uk Mrs Norma Whittaker 287 6606 Children/Youth Worker Deb Goodhead 07730 596309
There’s a remote African tribe that worships the number zero. Is nothing sacred?
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby Allotment Society News From John Thornton
It was a sharp descent into autumn this year triggered by near record frosts. However we are rewarded by the golden glow of the trees. Another marker is the manure delivery tractor chugging through our village delivering its soil invigorating load to the plots. It may be my age but it doesn’t seem long since I was erecting poles for runner beans and sheltering the young plants from late spring frosts. Now poles are all stripped of the vines and put away for the winter. Courgettes, which suffered in the spring drought, finished producing; they too have been taken up and composted. Being very cellular plants they don’t enjoy the first frost. Leeks are excellent this year with good white stems and no sign of the little mite that can ruin a crop. They don’t mind a good frost. They know that they are safe when the ground is frozen, we can’t get a spade in. For gardeners conditions are never perfect, what’s right for one won’t suit another, this forms the basis of leaning on a spade allotment chat that takes place every year, same topic, different people and it will be next year. I stand back and listen on a lovely summer’s evening smiling. Isn’t life on the plots great? We, as every year, welcome new members as the gentle turnover of life continues. Some make enthusiastic starts then find it is all too much; others astound you with progress. It’s like spinning a coin. After years of experience allocating plots I wouldn’t like to put money on who will and who won’t make it. The unenviable part is telling a member that their plot doesn’t conform to the signed tenancy agreement which if not corrected can lead to confiscation of the plot. Sad but it happens.
When on holiday we enjoy seeing NT gardens and other peoples’ allotments. A pleasant surprise this summer was a visit to NT Felbrigg in Norfolk. Many will be familiar with these immaculate gardens but an exciting development was the establishing of allotments within the walled area for the local community. Each plot had a sign with photographs of the local holder plus family and a description of why they wanted a plot and what they intended to grow. With the families that work there were the Cromer Sea Scouts, Scouts, Cubs and Beavers. They would all benefit from superior tuition from the full time gardeners. Let’s see what has developed next year.
May I quote an intriguing letter of Oct. 8th from the Daily Telegraph: “In these austere times, may I suggest that the first person in the queue to go should be the person employed by Lincoln City Council who sent out a questionnaire to local allotment members asking for their sexuality.” Could the sign I spotted on our plots pre-empt a similar letter or is it a case of misinterpretation? (The sign has been erected by the plot holder to remind him not to plant BRASSICAS on that part of his allotment.)
National Trust Leicester Association NEWS
Most National Trust properties are open at weekends in the run up to Christmas. They all offer special events and here are details of just three of our local properties. Over the weekends of 4/5, 11/12 & 18/19 December Canons Ashby House, near Towcester, is open (12.00 – 4.00) and various rooms are decorated in the style of a Tudor, 18th century or Victorian Christmas, the Museum of Childhood, near Tutbury, has a Jolly Jingle Trail and Father Christmas in a Toyland Grotto (11.00 – 5.00) and finally Calke Abbey has its annual winter festival Tree Trail in the grounds which is illuminated from about 4.00 to 6.30. In addition Calke Abbey has a Christmas Craft & Gift Show on 11th & 12th December from 11.00 to 6.00 and a Christmas Fine Food Fair on 19th . rooms are open for all of December from 11.00 to 4.00. The NT shop and tea these events. Having mentioned Canons Ashby, a grand Manor House built in 1590, a geophysical survey carried out in recent months has revealed the remains of a priory, cloisters and associated structures. The NT always knew there had been a priory on the site as the house was built with much of the old stone but we did not realise the extent of the complex. The survey also revealed the clear outline of at least 25 dwellings in a medieval village. Again the Trust knew a village had existed on the site but did not know the location or the size. However, the most exciting find was the walls of a large structure, which is almost certainly a castle which nobody knew existed. The Trust is looking into ways to investigate these finds further and full details will be on display at the property next year. The NT Leicester Association has an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 24 November at 2.30 at the St John the Baptist Parish Centre, Clarendon Park Road, Leicester. Elizabeth Riding will talk about Christmas in Bethlehem – Manger Square. On Tuesday 14th December, Estate Manager, Russell Ashfield, will present an illustrated talk on the NT Ilam Park & South Peak Estate. The meeting will be held at the Premier Inn, Braunstone Lane East, Leicester at 7.30pm. Admission to both meetings is NTLA members £2 and visitors £4, everyone is most welcome. For more information on the NT Leicester Association or its Talks Service, call 0116 2229133.
Alan Tyler, Chairman NT Leicester Association
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I drink to much. Last time I gave a urine sample, it had an olive in it.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Is technology a bad thing for libraries?
Improvements in technology are generally welcomed and regarded as a Good Thing, but could the internet be having a negative effect on public libraries? The ability to renew books online is very convenient, but it does reduce the need for book-borrowers to actually visit their library. And if you don’t visit, you won’t browse the new selections of books, CDs, etc. Another effect of making it easier to repeatedly renew loans online is that there will be fewer overdue fines - which must have an adverse impact on library revenue. The increasing popularity of electronic book readers, such as Amazon’s Kindle will also reduce the need for readers to actually visit the library to collect their books. The technology cannot be uninvented, so in order to survive libraries will need to embrace it, and use it to their advantage. Is it the end for public libraries? Or could they evolve into a new form of free public entertainment and information service with online and offline offerings? Tell Spotlight readers what you think ...
Charity Fashion Show and Sale In aid of Rainbows Childrens and Young People’s Hospice Wednesday November 17th, 7.30pm at Markfield Community Centre The ticket price is £5 and there will be a raffle, auction, jewellery stall etc with all the proceeds going to Rainbows Childrens Hospice. There will be also be a licensed bar, as well as a chance to pick up a great bargain. The fashion show and sale is courtesy of Smartys Ltd. The clothes are carefully selected and offer a rare opportunity to purchase end of lines and overmakes from all major high street stores including M&S; Per Una, Monsoon, Principles, White Stuff etc. with savings of up to 50%-70% off original store prices. There will be a vast selection of over 1000 items to suit all tastes and sizes ranging from 8 - 22. You will have the opportunity to try on the garments & there will be facilities to pay by Credit Card, and if you are not happy with your purchase Smartys offer a 28 day full refund policy. So come along with friends and shop for your winter or Christmas outfits while saving lots of money and having a lovely evening out too. We are also looking for ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes to model the clothes during the evening and you don’t have to be Naomi, Kate or Elle, just you! And don’t worry because you will be choreographed so will know exactly where to go and what to do before stepping onto the catwalk! So if you think you would enjoy being a model we would love to hear from you. To purchase your tickets, or for more information call 07831 101278 or email rainbowscharity@live.co.uk
Get “The X Factor” With The New Video Game Out Now! The new console game “The X Factor” has been released. The game, co-produced by FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) and Deep Silver, is based on the hit ITV talent show The X Factor and is expected to fly off the shelves this Christmas. The “The X Factor” game is available on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft® (£34.99 RRP), Wii™ (£29.99 RRP) and PlayStation®3 (£34.99 RRP). The game is also available to buy in a single microphone pack (£39.99 RRP) and double microphone pack (£49.99 RRP). Aspiring console pop stars get to perform 28 new and classic hit pop songs from famous artists including U2, Lady Gaga, Pixie Lott, Stanfour and more. Also players can unlock achievements and unique items in order to modify their characters in the course of the game. The game captures the excitement and entertainment of the TV show, including auditions, boot camp, appearances in judges’ houses, and live shows. Besides the Career mode, “The X Factor” also offers a Party mode with four different varieties of gameplay. Whether players want to become the next pop superstar or prefer to compete against their friends and family in the living room, “The X Factor” offers an interactive experience true to the biggest entertainment show in Europe.
I have a new philosophy. I’m going to dread one day at a time.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-NOVEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
31
Dodgeball beginners’ sessions
Simon Moody is currently in the process of a big recruitment drive for his Dodge This! dodgeball club on a Thursday Night. Simon says: “Currently we are looking for both male and female beginner players. We are especially targeting getting female Dodgeball Players involved in the sport. Currently there are 8 female players who recently entered their first UKDBA tournament in London. They are called Leicester City Ligresses - they are female version of my team Leicester City Ligers. “They finished third against very experienced female teams which was a great achievement.” The Dodgeball Beginner Sessions take place on Thursday Nights (8:30 10:30pm at Enderby Leisure Centre - first session is free) Get in contact with Simon Moody on 07743 098544 or email: enderbydodgeball@googlemail. com Players must be 16+.
Calling All Keen Swimmers
Crime Figures for Oct 2010 Groby
Field Head
House Burglaries Actual: Markfield Road, Foxglove Drive Attempted: None
2 Actual 0 Attempted
0
Garage, Shed, Outbuilding Burglaries Actual: None Attempted: Rookery Lane
0 Actual 1 Attempted
0
Coalville Swimming Club is looking to recruit young swimmers aged 7 – 8 years old to join the swimming club. We offer friendly and qualified coaching for all abilities and enter A & B teams in local swimming galas to bring out their true potential. The Club trains on Mondays from 7-8pm at Hermitage Leisure Centre, Whitwick, Wednesdays from 7.30-8.30pm at Ibstock Community College, Thursdays from 7-8pm at King Edward VII School, Coalville and Fridays from 7-8pm at Hood Park Leisure Centre, Ashby de la Zouch. Coalville Swimming Club welcomes swimmers of all ages to make new friends, have lots of fun and keep fit – all at the same time! For more information please contact Alison Cooper, Membership Secretary on 07729 723866 or email to alison@thecoopershome.co.uk.
Theft of Motor Vehicle: None
0
0
Anstey Christmas Gala 2010
Theft from Motor Vehicle: Martinshaw Lane
1
0
Damage to Motor Vehicle: Stamford Drive
1
0
Non-Domestic Assaults
3
0
The following incidents were reported to the Police in the local area during October 2010. Description
Anti Social Behaviour Incidents
9
0
Crimes That Don’t Affect Residents Homes or Cars
10
0
TOTAL (Actual)
26
0
TOTAL (Attempted)
1
0
Theft: 2 / Damage: 5 / Other: 3
Christmas lights, carol singers, stalls, tree competition, and Father Christmas - a festive treat! Come and join us between 4pm and 7pm on Saturday 4th December at the Jubilee Hall and all three churches. For stall enquiries or Christmas tree competition rules, please contact Kath on 0116 2121309.
Anstey Gala Committee
Local crime news in more detail is available at www.groby.org.uk Information supplied by Martin Cartwright - Secretary - Groby Branch Neighbourhood Watch - Tel: 0116 2874500 • Mobile: 07850 707050 Email: neighbourhoodwatch@appliancehome.co.uk
In An Emergency dial 999. Contact the local police on 0116 222-2222. CRIMESTOPPERS: 0800 555111 • Groby Neighbourhood Watch: 0116 287 4500 Next Meeting: Thursday 2nd December 2010 at 7.30pm at Groby Village Hall, New room to the rear of the main hall. Everyone welcome
I was born to be a pessimist. My blood type is B Negative.
Sykes Jewellers 8 Bradgate Road, Anstey, Leicester Tel: 0116 236 2510 www.sykesjewellers.co.uk
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