Ashby Life December 2022

Editor Vanessa Preece 01530 417739

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Ashby Life Ltd

Rockleigh House 37 Burton Road Ashby de la Zouch LE65 2LF

Ashby Life is an independent publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the editor. The use of this magazine for canvassing or direct marketing is strictly prohibited. Information is included on the What’s On and Community Board pages subject to space being available. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, Ashby Life cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions or endorse companies, products or services appearing in this magazine. All adverts are published in good faith using information supplied by each company, on the understanding that relevant permissions have been obtained.

Welcome

Welcome to our bumper Christmas issue and congratulations to Martin Bassett, the winner of our December front cover competition with his image of Mill Lane Mews.

Within this month’s magazine we hope you’ll find everything you need to celebrate the festive season to the full in Ashby. On pages 74 and 75 we have our pick of the many Christmas events taking place this month, from carol concerts to festive fairs – there’s a lot going on. We also have details of the local Christmas Church Services and the schedule for the Santa Sleigh Route to ensure you don’t miss any vital dates.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your Christmas shopping, then our Shop Locally page can help and many of our advertisers are offering gift vouchers. However, if you need a break from all this frantic festive planning then why not enter this month’s competition for afternoon tea and an indulgent treatment for two at the Beauty Temple in Castle Donington?

Now is the perfect time to grab a cuppa and a mince pie (it’s never too early) and enjoy this month’s issue.

Wishing each and every one of you a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

See you in 2023!

Ashby Fire Station

Local Pantomimes

Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a family panto. Here’s our round up of the top picks locally:

Sleeping Beauty –Loughborough Town Hall

Saturday 19th November to Monday 2nd January

Enjoy a brandnew spin on a much-loved yarn this Christmas as Little Wolf present an action packed spectacular and spellbinding adventure. Deep in Coalville Castle, Nurse Nancy is making plans for the christening of baby Princess Rose. When the wickedly glamorous Carabosse, a thorn in the royal family’s side, discovers she’s not invited she sets out to put a spindle in the works! Will true loves kiss break the curse? Will Mervin the magician ever get a spell right? Will Nurse Nancy look any better after a hundred years of beauty sleep? See www. loughboroughtownhall.co.uk/events Tickets from £17.50.

hilarious fun-filled, brand new, family Garrick Panto Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! Sam Rabone returns and will be joined by Brian Wheeler (Star Wars), and Dean Whatton (Game of Thrones) as part of The Fantastic Seven. Book early to avoid disappointment at www. lichfieldgarrick.com/whats-on/christmas-shows/ Tickets from £15.

Aladdin – Derby Arena

Friday 9th to Saturday 31st December Get whisked away this Christmas to the town of ShangriLa where Aladdin and his mother, Widow Twankey dream of a better life. However, lurking in the shadows the wicked sorcerer Abanazar (Cold Feet’s John Thomson) has his heart set on world domination. It’s down to Aladdin, with a bit of help from his faithful friend Marmaduke the monkey, to save the day. An action packed adventure for the whole family with spectacular sets, breathtaking special effects, gorgeous costumes and mountains of mayhem. For booking see www. derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/aladdin-2022/ Tickets cost £18 – £30.

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs - Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Friday 25th November to Sunday 8th January Mirror, mirror on the wall...what’s the greatest pantomime of them all? Don’t miss this year’s

Cinderella – De Montfort Hall Saturday 10th December to Monday 2nd January Imagine Theatre present the rags to riches story of Cinderella starring TV favourites and dancing duo AJ and Curtis Pritchard playing the roles of Prince Charming and Dandini, alongside CBeebies Evie Pickerill in the title role of Cinderella. Enjoy songs, dance, laughter and plenty of panto silliness in this traditional family show. Gather your friends and family and book the best seats now. See www. demontforthall.co.uk/event/cinderella/ for ticket prices and too book.

Welcome to

Interactive role play centres based in South Derbyshire

Titchy Town and Hero Town are both indoor play villages designed especially for little ones up to 8 years of age. Children can freely explore the many different play zones in both villages. The villages are designed to allow children’s imagination to run wild whilst they role play in a safe environment.

Grown-ups can participate in their child’s play, or just sit back and watch them learn whilst enjoying a mug of freshly brewed tea or coffee and an amazing homemade cake from our little coffee shop.

Where are we?

Titchy Town is based on the site of Scallywags Private Day Nursey in Chellaston (Rowallan Way, DE73 5WX). Hero Town is based on the site of Scallywags Private Day Nursery in Melbourne (Castle Lane, DE73 8JB). Please use Scallywags car park at both sites. You will find signage in both car parks on how to access the centres.

How it works?

Titchy Town Play Village

Hero Town Play Village

Waiting…

December brings with it all the very many traditions of the festive season. We all have them. Perhaps you are someone who always puts up the decorations in good time, or you could be someone who enjoys waiting until Christmas Eve? You could be one of those whose presents are bought, labelled, and wrapped by now, or maybe you prefer the adrenalin rush of trying to get it all done in one mad dash the day before the shops close?

Once Christmas Day itself arrives there are still decisions to make about waiting or not waiting. Can small children be restrained until a reasonable hour to open their presents? Is it lunch first and then the King’s speech, or the other way round?

The thing all these decisions have in common is whether it is possible to wait. Waiting is exactly what the season of Advent is all about. Advent is the first season of the Church’s year - it is the

lead up to Christmas and includes the four Sundays preceding Christmas Day. It is the period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, but also for the expected return of Christ in the Second Coming.

As part of your Advent preparations, I’m sure you just can’t wait for the magic of our Christingle Service on Sunday 4th December, the glorious music of our carol service on Sunday 18th December, or the fun of the children’s crib service on Saturday 24th December.

You are warmly invited to join us at our annual Civic Christmas Social Event

Tuesday 13th December

The Beeches, Ashby-de-la-Zouch

Entertainment from The Beatles Tribute, Raffle, Quiz and Rollup to the Bottle. A fun night not to be missed! £20 for members. £22 non-members. Carvery. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Contact Margaret Mabey on 01530 412410 or email: margaretamabey@btinternet.com

Why not join us?

Ashby Civic Society exists to preserve the town’s heritage and to encourage high standards of town planning, good design and sustainable developments.

What do we do?

• We present monthly talks at St Helen’s Heritage Centre and organise summer visits to interesting places.

• We encourage a greater awareness of local history in all age groups

• We promote Civic Pride in our fine town

• We represent the interests of Ashby Residents through communication with our local council’s.

• We promote greater interest in our environment and in projects to improve our town.

HOW TO JOIN...

We welcome new members at any time of the year. Price is held for 2022 at JUST £10 per annum. Please contact Margaret Mabey on 01530 412410 or email: margaretamabey@btinternet.com

Scan the QR code to visit the website and find out more.

www.ashbycivicsociety.co.uk

Christmas

Shop Locally

Grace & Co

They say the best things come in small packages & Grace & Co on Market Street have lots of lovely offerings that fit the bill for any lover of sparkly things.

Stocking well-loved brands such as Clogau, Pandora, Hot Diamonds, Thomas Sabo & Ted Baker, the friendly, knowledgeable team are on hand to help you to pick out that perfect gift for someone special.

Tollgate Brewery

Based in the heart of the National Forest on the edge of the Calke Abbey estate, the Tollgate Brewery has a variety of gift options for the beer connoisseur in your life, including merch such as a Tollgate Brewery beanie hat or a voucher, so you can give the gift of Beer.

They also run brewery tours, which are a great gift choice & include a tour of their facility, 2 pints & tasters, plus a tasty pizza from their menu. To book, head to www. tollgatebrewery.co.uk/shop

Pet Deli

When it comes to presents, don’t forget your animal friends! Pet Deli has gifts galore for the four-legged (or winged) companion in your life, with Christmas jumpers for dogs, treats for them to enjoy on Christmas morning & a great selection of beautiful pet beds to choose from to make your pet feel like top dog this Christmas.

Sweet Memory Lane

The Sweetie Team at Sweet Memory Lane have a fab-yule-ous selection of treats. Their traditional family-run shop is bursting with delicious goodies; from old fashioned favourites like fudge & chocolate gingers to their pre-made sweetie cones (which would make a fab stocking filler) or their reindeer hot chocolate bombs - you’re sure to find something to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.

Souk de la Zouch

Here in the office, we love Souk & it is a great choice for homeware, jewellery, home fragrances & much, much more. We love their range of Powder Accessories, Stoneglow home frangrances & great selection of Joma jewellery.

Ashby Gift Card

If you simply can’t choose, this year sees the launch of the Ashby Gift Card! You can spend it in all of the amazing shops we have featured! For more details, see their ad on page 21 or visit wwwashbygiftcard.co.uk

18 ASHBY LIFE – Your handy guide to local services and businesses

An Ashby Gift Card is the perfect gift this Christmas!

Gifting an Ashby Gift Card provides your family, friends and colleagues with a choice. Whether it be clothing, homeware, a slice of cake and coffee, a massage, dinner for 2, jewellery or gym membership, the choice is theirs to make!

The Ashby Gift Card is easy to use and can be spent in participating Ashby businesses. With over 50 businesses to choose from, gifting an Ashby Gift Card is giving a gift of choice and furthermore, you’re supporting local businesses!

Also available as “loadable blank cards” in Ashby Toolbox, La Zouch Restaurant, Ace of Drinks, Pet Deli, Indulgent Chocolates and Fair2all. Simply collect your card and “load” it up with the desired gift amount at home using the super easy and secure www.loadthiscard.com website.

On December 3rd and 4th, cards will also be available from the Ashby BID team in Market Street, Ashby - look for the BID gazebo at the Christmas Fair!

WIN an indulgent treatment and afternoon tea for two with e Beauty Temple

Each month we bring you a fantastic competition from a local business. This month’s prize is definitely one we would all love to win here in the office.

We’ve worked with Lucy at The Retreat in Castle Donington, one of seven Beauty Temple salons across the Midlands, since the doors opened back in 2020. Housed in a beautiful heritage status Georgian building, split over four levels, the spa has every beauty service you could dream of all under one roof. From the champagne nail bar to the stunning treatment rooms to the relaxing outdoor hot tub, you’re guaranteed a truly indulgent experience.

The Retreat also hosts the Blossom café, serving delicious cakes, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea as well as a fully licensed bar and a private function room for hen parties, birthdays and other special occasions.

Whether you visit for an express treatment or a luxurious few hours, the team will ensure you go away feeling refreshed and comforted. They have a range of special packages for you to choose from, each will leave you feeling relaxed and revived.

In our fabulous competition the winner and a friend could enjoy afternoon tea and a luxury treatment each. The treatment will be either a

Decleor Discovey Facial or a Royal Back Massage (both 25 minutes), then the traditional afternoon tea includes finger sandwiches, fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, delicious cakes and a selection of tea and coffee. Sounds like heaven!!!

If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift, why not head over to www.beautytemple.co.uk or call 0333 313 4003 to discover the perfect spa package? Or if you simply can’t choose then gift vouchers are also available.

WIN, WIN, WIN!

One lucky person could WIN afternoon tea for two plus a beauty treatment of either a back massage or facial each. To be in with a chance of winning simply email competition@lifemagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘WIN with The Beauty Temple’ and let us know your name, address and contact telephone number. Be quick as you only have until midnight on Friday 30th December to enter. See www.castledonington.co.uk for full terms and conditions.

The winner and one friend will be entitled to one 25 minute treatment each (either Decleor Discovery Facial or Royal Back Massage) and afternoon tea for two. The prize will be given as an e-voucher. The prize must be booked within six months of the closing date of 30th December 2022. The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. The winners name will be published on our Facebook page. Multiple or automated entries are not allowed. We will not pass your details on to any third party. Terms and conditions apply.

Ashby Town Council

Christmas

As this magazine hits homes the Christmas lights and decorations will be going up throughout town. Thanks to Ashby BID an additional 50 small pre-lit artificial trees will be placed in the town centre as well as a real 20 foot tree on North Street and 4 cross street lights on Kilwardby Street, Bath Street, Brook Street and mid Market Street.

On Saturday 3rd December the Ashby Christmas event is back from 10.30am to 5.00pm with more festive fun than ever. Food Gusto’s’ food and drink festival will take over Market Street with stalls galore featuring regional produce including gourmet food, artisan breads, specialty beers and more. Whilst over on Brook Street you’ll find a variety of fairground rides.

Live entertainment will run throughout the day, there will be the chance to meet Santa and real reindeer and you can’t miss the traditional snowflake finale complete with confetti snow cannons.

The fun continues into Sunday with a second day of the Food Gusto food and drink fair and of course the Ashby Santa Fun Run and Walk taking place on the Bath Grounds.

Ashby Neighbourhood Plan

A Neighbourhood Plan gives local people the opportunity to create a framework for delivering a sustainable future for the benefit of all who live, work or visit our area. Our Neighbourhood Plan is now nearly four years old so we have taken the decision to review it, to see how the policies are working and whether any need to be updated or added.

Working groups will be created and if you would like to be actively involved, please contact the Town Council office on 01530 416 961 or email admin@ashbytowncouncil.gov.uk

Bath Grounds

The Bath Grounds Advisory Group have arranged for a new welcome sign to be placed at the Prior Park Road entrance. This new sign incorporates the fish mosaic, previously positioned further along the footpath, to ensure an impactful welcome. Native bulbs have been planted in the northeast side of the park, to encourage insects and other wildlife. This area will be become a ‘summer meadow’ with the adjacent green space, to the side of the bowls club, becoming a ‘spring meadow’ in 2023. Our winter car park times are now operational for all of those who use the Bath Grounds. The opening time remains unchanged at 8am but the car park will now be locked at 4pm until the end of March 2023.

Plans for 2023

Details of the key events being planned for the new year will be available in the January issue of Ashby Life. In particular look out for further details of the plans to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in May. A huge party with live entertainment and food and drinks stalls is being lined up to take place on Ashby Bath Grounds.

The nights are drawing in, it’s getting colder, and Christmas is just around the corner. This year, we’ve extended our Christmas offer to get you feeling festive and ready for the big day.

As darkness sets in at Calke, an illuminated light trail will light up with a merry glow. This year, we’re working with Quad, an international centre for engagement in contemporary art and film, based in Derby. The lights will be bigger and better than ever to create magical moments for you and your loved ones to enjoy. To give you a sneak peek, you won’t want to miss the star burst lantern in the Stableyards, lit up to illuminate a starry night sky, a willow light tunnel, interactive shadow puppets, and much more.

Since we know that Christmas can be a challenging time of year, the light trail will be free to National Trust members and of no extra charge to non-members, apart from normal admission charges upon entry. The trail along with the rest of our Christmas offer will be open every Saturday and Sunday in December and the week leading up to Christmas, from Monday 19th to Friday 23rd December, to allow you to make the most of Christmas.

The house is also unlocking its doors for Christmas and will be open from 3.30pm to

Getting festive at Calke!

6pm. Step inside and explore Christmases of Calke’s past; the ground floor of the house will be decorated with Victorian decorations, showing how Calke was celebrated in this time. You’ll then embark on a journey into the underground tunnels, moving through Christmases of the twentieth century.

If you’re lucky on your visit, you might spot a man and a woman in matching red suits. Father Christmas and Mrs Claus have made a special trip from North Pole to spread Christmas joy at Calke throughout December. For last minute Christmas gifts and cards, browse the shop, or join the Christmas fairs in the Riding School to find inspiration and treat yourself to a mince pie. We look forward to welcoming you for Christmas soon.

Father Christmas spreading Christmas cheer @ National Trust/ Gillian Day; Calke lit up in festive lights © National Trust/Susan Guy

Ashby Church Services

Ashby Congregational Church

11th December 4pm Carol Service at Newton Burgoland Congregational Church

18th December 3pm Carol Service

19th December 7pm Radio Leicester “Sing Christmas!”

Christmas Eve 6pm Christmas Eve celebration

New Years Day 10.30am Informal breakfast service for New Year

Ashby Methodist Church

18th December 10.30am Morning Service with carol service theme Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 10.30am Family Worship

Our Lady of Lourdes Church

Christmas Eve 5.30pm Christmas Eve service at Church of the Risen Lord, Castle Donington

Christmas Day 9.30am Christmas Day Mass at Our Lady of Mercy, Melbourne

Christmas Day 11am Christmas Day Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes, Ashby www.rcparishofashbymelbourneanddonington.com • 01530 412 237

Ashby Baptist Church

Sunday 18th 10.30am Messy Christmas! (lots of child friendly Christmas activities)

Christmas Day 10am Christmas Morning All Age Worship

St Helen’s Church

Sunday 27th November 6pm

Advent Carol Service

Sunday 4th December 3.30pm Christingle Service

Sunday 18th December 3pm & 6pm Carol Services

Christmas Eve 5pm Crib Services

Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Mass

Christmas Day 10.30am Holy Communion

Holy Trinity Church

Monday 28th November 7.30pm

Advent Carol Service

Saturday 3rd December 7.30pm Community Carols

Sunday 11th December 10.30am Christingle Service

Sunday 18th December 6pm Candlelit Carol Service

Christmas Eve 5.30pm Christmas Eve Nativity Service

Christmas Eve 11.15pm Midnight Communion

Christmas Day 10.30am All age Communion Service

New Year’s Eve 11am -3pm Remembrance at Christmas Time

Despite many coats of preservative, the structure of the wooden fence in our front garden rotted, and a recent storm sent it off down the road, thankfully missing the neighbour’s car. However,

As autumn takes hold, we hear from customers who choose ColourFence because their old fences have blown down or rotted through, causing anxiety about pets escaping or even unwanted intruders. This, paired with the fact that there is no need for ongoing maintenance allows them to break the expensive, monotonous cycle of painting, repairs and replacement. ColourFence is guaranteed not to warp, crack, shrink, rot or peel for 25 years†. Making it one of the world’s best maintenance-free fences. And, unlike other fences, ColourFence can withstand gusts of wind up to 130mph. There’s a choice of colours to harmonise and enhance your garden’s design. You’ll find our prices surprisingly competitive too. Why wait until an urgent replacement is needed? To see the full product range, call us today and find out why it makes sense to choose ColourFence.

Guaranteed† not to warp, crack, shrink, rot or peel Withstands wind gusts of up to 130mph

25 years†

every cloud has a silver lining, and we couldn’t be more pleased with our new ColourFence. It looks great, and we are looking forward to years of summers with no fence paint or algae treatments.

Santa Sleigh Route

Run 1 Run 2

Clubs of Ashby-de-la-Zouch

Thu 1st Dec Moira Measham – Run 1

Fri 2nd Dec Blackfordby Measham – Run 2

Sat 3rd Dec Reindeer Resting

D- Christmas Event Ashby

Sun 4th Dec Reindeer Resting Santa Fun Run/Walk Christmas Market

Mon 5th Dec Ashby Gardens, Bishops Hall Road

Measham Run 3

Tue 6th Dec Saxon Way, Churchill Close, Marlborough Way to Rouen Way Willesley

Wed 7th Dec West elds & Phillip Bent Pennine Way

Thu 8th Dec Marlborough Way from Uppingham Drive to Smisby Rd

Netherseal/Overseal to Admiral Fish Bar

Fri 9th Dec Woodside,/High elds/Tower Gardens Overseal

Sat 10th Dec Market Street

Lower Linton/Castle Gresley

Sun 11th Dec DT Aldi Linton

Mon 12th Dec Ashby Heights, Norris Hill Archers Old Garage/ to Hastings Park (Leic Road)

Tue 13th Dec Oakthorpe Hastings Park

Wed 14th Dec Donisthorpe Short Lane to Church St Chapmans Meadows to Leicester Road/Range Road

Thu 15th Dec Reindeer Resting Smisby Road from Nicks to By Pass

Fri 16th Dec Packington Nottingham Road/Leicester Road

Sat 17th Dec Reindeer Resting Market Street

A444 Estate, Spode Drive, Goseley Estate to Tollgate

Sun 18th Dec Reindeer Resting DT - Aldi Hartshorne

Mon 19th Dec Donisthorpe Ramscli e Ave/Acresford Rd/Moria Road Castle Gresley/Church Gresley

Tue 20th Dec Reindeer Resting Albert Village/Church Gresley

Wed 21st Dec Appleby Magna Reindeer Resting

Thu 22nd Dec Tesco (0800 – 1800hrs) Findern Event

Fri 23rd Dec Reindeer Resting Tesco (0800 – 1800hrs) Woodville High Street/Sorrel Drive

Sat 24th Dec Market Street Reindeer Resting

All

Great places for a Christmas walk

There is a magic about Christmas that can see even the least active family members being persuaded outside for a breath of fresh air - so I’ve rounded up some of my favourite locations that can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities over the festive season. These locations offer easy walking and hard paths suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and small people. Opening times may vary over the holidays, particularly for facilities such as shops or cafes, so do check before you go.

Moira Furnace (DE12 6AT)

This is probably my all-time favourite ‘take the family’ place for walking. There are three car parks - the larger one is right next to playing fields and a wonderful play area suitable for children of varying ages. The two smaller car parks are on either side of the furnace where there is a tearoom and some small shops. During the holidays boat trips up the canal may be available. Paths run alongside the Ashby Canal linking into Donisthorpe Country Park or down to Conkers Waterside. There are also woodland trails, a lock and old lime kilns to discover.

Calke Abbey (DE73 7JF)

A visit to our local National Trust property is sure to bring a smile to your face. Vehicle access is via the main entrance at Ticknall. If you are not a National Trust member you will need to pay to take your vehicle in but if you arrive on foot you can enjoy the grounds for free. Footpaths lead into Calke Abbey from Ticknall or Calke Village and there are car parks at Ticknall Village Hall and in Calke Village though both are likely to be busy over the festive period. Enjoy some of the oldest trees in Europe, admire the deer park or explore the old tramway tunnel and limeyards. If you like to plan your walk ahead then take a look at the Calke Abbey website where you can download guides for a number of different trails.

Oakthorpe Colliery (DE12 7RH)

If you are after somewhere a little quieter then Oakthorpe Colliery could be just the spot. This Woodland Trust site between Ashby and Donisthorpe offers free car parking and a circular path around the lake which has a firm surface and lovely views over the water. You reach the car park via an access road off Ashby Road, Donisthorpe.

Sence Valley (LE67 6NW)

A Forestry England Site, Sence Valley is on the outskirts of Ibstock and has several large lakes with paths weaving around them. The main car park is at the top of the hill but there is a smaller one down near the lakes which is ideal if you have elderly relatives or wheelchair users who may struggle with the steep slope. Loads of good hard paths, lakes and streams and a great place to see swans, cormorants and other water birds.

Hicks Lodge (LE65 2UP)

Home to the National Forest Cycle Centre, Hicks Lodge is located off Willesley Woodside between Moira and Ashby. Enjoy the trails which are graded for bikes only or mixed use and then relax in the cafeteria with a hot chocolate and slice of cake. There is a wonderful adventure playground using lots of natural wood and also activity trails to follow. If anyone in the family got a new bike for Christmas then this is absolutely the spot to visit.

Coalville Ramblers are a friendly, local, walking group whose area includes Ashby, Ibstock and Coalville. They have a full programme throughout the year with walks of varying distances and degrees of challenge on Wednesdays and weekends. New members of any age are always welcome and can join for two or three walks before committing to joining. Find out more and view their current programme of walks at www.ramblers.org.uk/coalville.

Searching for great Christmas gift ideas?

Check out these suggestions from some of our partners at the National Forest and support the Forest at the same time.

What Did the Tree See? is a beautiful picture book that follows the story of an oak tree on a hilltop as it witnesses all the changes around it over the course of hundreds of years. Told in gentle rhyming verse by Charlotte Guillian and illustrated by Sam Usher, this attractive book is printed on FSC paper using soy ink. Publisher Welbeck Children’s donates 10p from every book sold to support the work of the National Forest. Pages at the end of the book include a timeline of events in world history that the oak tree may have witnessed, prompting parents and children to explore their own local history.

Treat someone to a pair of Cotswold Shoes and they will be walking out in comfort in the New Year, while a donation will wing its way to the National Forest. This well-loved outdoor footwear brand has a passion for the natural environment and is developing future sustainable footwear ranges.

Feanedock Fettler, Willesley Wobbler, Charnwood Copse and Needwood Nobbler make up the National Forest Real Ale collection from local Tollgate Brewery. Brewed in the heart of the National Forest on the Calke Abbey Estate, the ales are available to buy at the Tap House in Ashby and other outlets in the National Forest. Tollgate Brewery

makes sustainability central to their brewing processes. All their left-over hops, malt and spent yeast are distributed to the farms and gardens on the Calke Estate to be used as pig feed or compost.

And we may be biased but we think the best things in life are trees! So why not dedicate a tree to be planted in the National Forest? You don’t even need to get your hands muddy, as we do the planting for you. Choose from a range of tree species and beautiful certificates to give loved ones on Christmas Day. The National Forest has shown that trees inspire change, and not just for our landscape. By dedicating a tree, not only will you be helping to continue to grow the Forest, you will also be helping to create the best conditions for wildlife to thrive, as well as a place where people can connect with nature and the outdoors. Growing a greener future for everyone.

See more about all these gifts and partnerships at nationalforest.org

Season’s greeting from all at the National Forest!

nationalforest.org

Seeking out value

I thought this might be an appropriate subject given the times we are living in. When it comes to buying wine there’s a lot of misinformation out there, and one of the most common misconceptions is that spending a lot of money on a bottle means you will like it. With prices likely to be rising how can we sniff out the best value when it comes to buying a bottle?

Spend a little more

Rarely will you find good wine at the very cheapest price points. It is suggested that the £7 a bottle price point is where you start seeing real value. Anything below that and you’re paying for the bottle, the labelling, the shipping, the duty, the VAT … if you’re lucky, there’s a few pennies left for the actual liquid.

Learn what you like

Do you know what wine you like? Getting value for your money when it comes to wine involves at least a bit of legwork on your part – noting down which grapes, regions and styles you prefer, and progressing from there towards specific producers and vintages. In the long run, you won’t buy wine you don’t like.

Find someone you can talk to With all its quirks and specialist insights, building up a comprehensive knowledge of wine can take years. If you can find a wine merchant you trust, your job will become a lot easier, as they will come up with suggestions based on your preferences and price range. It’s good to talk and a bit more fun than just pressing a button on a keyboard!

Beware Special Offers

Special offers might make your wine cheap, but will they provide more value? Not always. It devalues the wine, because if a bottle of

Order 6 bottles and get FREE DELIVERY to Ashby & surrounding areas

New Zealand sauvignon was £10 and now is suddenly £5, then was it ever really worth £10? The odd saving here and there is one thing but huge 50% off or 2 for 1 deals. Beware.

Buck the trends

There is often value to be found in regions with a dodgy reputation. Beaujolais used to be known chiefly for its youthful plonk but in recent years it has been making wines that rival those from nearby Burgundy. Beaujolais cru is one of France’s most underappreciated wines as is a good Muscadet.

Hunting out great value wines can be great fun. It may not always be a smooth journey but the end is worth it. You will have fun along the way and ultimately enjoy the whole experience of drinking wine more and make less mistakes when buying wine.

If you’re looking for further recommendations on new wines to try give Karl a call on 07970 122501 – he’s always happy to chat all things wine! You can order online at www.thehonestwinecompanyltd.co.uk

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Y B Y J E S S I C A M

12 Tips of Christmas

It’s that time of year again. With 2023 rapidly approaching, here are my top tips for a healthy new year.

Just do it!

We all know that exercise is good for us and that we should do it, but sometimes we deliberate too much on when to start; maybe waiting for the right time, the right month, the right occasion. Well, I can tell you, there isn’t the perfect moment or time to get in shape, so you may as well just get started right away. Just do it!

Make a plan

What do they say? Fail to plan, plan to fail. When you first start an exercise plan you need to have a goal, and then make a plan to achieve it. This could involve making smaller goals to reach your big one. It could involve a personal trainer or a nutrition coach. Just remember to set targets and monitor them.

Every workout doesn’t need to be great Remember that every workout you do doesn’t necessarily have to be the best. In my career, I have had some amazing workouts, but I’ve also had some rubbish ones, and then some just OK ones. Training is for life, as long as you’re consistent, and keep showing up, then you’ll achieve your goals.

Strength

training is key

The key to achieving your goals will involve strength training. Getting your muscles stronger will help with fat loss, fitness and muscle tone. It will protect your joints and keep you moving well into old age. So, grab those weights and get lifting!

Cardio for fitness

Lots of us often see cardio as a weight loss tool. I prefer to see it as a tool to improve my fitness levels, and in turn weight loss – or should we say, fat loss – will then naturally follow. Try to choose a piece of cardio equipment that you wouldn’t normally do and elevate your heart rate to within 60-80% of its maximum.

Dieting is overrated

There are so many diets flying around that it’s hard to make sense of it all. Well, let me help. Stop! Fad dieting never works long term. Most of us have been on one and generally, we end up stopping it, and in some cases put on more weight than before. The best diet plan is the one we can stick to for life. A balanced approach is needed; start with protein, then add good green veg and top it up with some healthy fats. Try to eat for your health, meaning fuel your body with good nutritious food, for say 80%, then leave

20% for some maybe not so good foods and treats. If you do this consistently, you will see your body change.

Control Is everything

Controlling your weights is the most important piece of advice I can give. Exercises shouldn’t be performed fast. Slow down the tempo of both your lift and your lower and you will see the difference in intensity. It will be much much harder. You’ll burn more calories and increase your lean muscle faster.

Sleep is underrated

The body need rest and recovery for it to function properly. If you want to achieve great results from exercise, get some good sleep. At rest your body repairs itself and improves its functioning. You’ll be able hit the gym harder, feel more alert and alive.

Walking is the best

When in doubt, go for a walk. When stressed, go for a walk. When sore, go for a walk. When you have cravings, go for a walk. Not seeing results, go for a walk. Oh, did I mention to go for a walk!?! The movement you do in-between workouts plays an immense part of your daily

calorie burn.

Keeping on track, get back on it

We will all ‘fall off the wagon’ at some point. The key is to get straight back on. If you miss a workout, just pick it up next time. If you have a bad day with food, just get back onto it the next day. Don’t let a bad day turn into a bad week, a month or even a year! Just put it behind you and get back on the horse!

Fundamentals

When starting out, get the fundamentals right. Work on: eating more veg, drinking more water, sleeping enough, setting regular mealtimes, go on more walks, then hit the gym and get a personalised programme done to suit you, your lifestyle, and your goals.

Enjoy it!

Probably the most important one. If you do something you enjoy, you’ll keep on doing it. So, pick the right form of exercise for you, and then hit it consistently.

Need to make the right start to 2023? Give us a call on 01530 413 330 or email us on info@fitnessrepublic.co.uk

Christmas is coming to Creative Melbourne Gallery...

Many of you will have heard of and even visited Melbourne Festival which is held each September and celebrates creative talent of every kind from the area and entire region from art and photography to performing arts and more.

However, have you discovered Creative Melbourne Gallery in Church Street, Melbourne yet? Melbourne Festival organisers opened the gallery in the Spring of 2022 to support local artists. Each exhibition features work by popular East Midlands Artists and showcases some of the amazing talent in our area. If you want a unique, original Christmas gift head for the Creative Melbourne Gallery!

The current exhibition

AUTUMN GLOW opened in November and celebrates the countryside in Autumn and the beautiful colours in nature throughout the year. It is well worth a visit to enjoy a taste of the talent on our doorstep. Artists Peter Clayton, Steph Jansen, Sarah

Kirby, Mark Langley, Steven McLoughlin and Peter Watson are exhibiting their work alongside some beautiful ceramics, glass, sculpture and jewellery by Audrey Ebrey, Andrew Mason, Louise Roe, Karen Worrall and April Young to name but a few! Autumn Glow is open from 10am - 4pm on Wednesdays through to Saturdays until Christmas with new work being added regularly.

If you need a bit of Christmas “Sparkle” the gallery has jewellery by Sheila Read, Anna Roebuck, Tiffany Stevens and Watermeadow Lane. Look no further than this cosy gallery where you can leave a list for Santa and send your nearest and dearest to shop.

After dark on Friday 2nd December, Melbourne Christmas Market a perfect opportunity to meet Melbourne friends (including Santa!), enjoy carols with Melbourne choral group A Choir’d Taste outside the Gallery and to stock up on artist made decorations and gifts in the gallery. If you can’t make it to the Christmas Market, don’t worry as throughout December the gallery will be open with regular deliveries of new stock.

For anyone wishing to get creative in the New Year the Creative Melbourne Gallery will be hosting regular creative workshops in 2023 led by Melbourne Festival Artists. Details and all the latest news and updates from Creative Melbourne Gallery can be found on Facebookwww.facebook.com/CreativeMelbourneGallery

Main Image: Peter Watston; Melbourne Festival Christmas Card – Rebecca Morledge

Don’t fall for poor balance

The task of balancing is not always a simple one. Did you know that improved balance and muscle coordination allows your body to react with better control to challenging tasks? This could mean increased speed, agility, reaction times and improved performance.

Balance is not just for athletes though - by improving your balance, you can:

• Reduce your risk of falls

• Reduce your risk of ankle and knee injuries

• Improve your proprioception (awareness of where your body is in space)

You can improve your balance with these 5 simple exercises at home:

1.

Single Leg Stance

Stand with a chair or even the kitchen counter in front of you and lift one leg off the floor (not far) using the chair/ counter to stabilise you if needed. Engage your core (try to pull your tummy button to your spine) and squeeze your glutes (bottom). If this is easy, then try with your eyes closed. Aim for 30 - 60 seconds.

2. Squats

Stand with a chair or even the kitchen counter in front of you. Push your bottom back keeping your chest upright and bend your knees. Don’t let your knees go past your toes and make sure your feet are on the floor the whole time (no tippy toes). Remember you don’t need to squat too low. Aim to repeat this 10 times.

3. Sit to Stand

Start by sitting on a stable chair, such as a dining chair, then stand up in a controlled manner. Once at standing, sit back down. Can you do this 12 times? Can you do it without using your arms? If this is too easy, then progress to single leg stand to sit. Begin

standing, keep one leg on the floor and lift the other slightly. Now, keeping one leg lifted, sit back onto your chair. Then return to standing and repeat. Remember, safety first!

4. Walk the Line

This exercise is all about putting one foot in front of the other, but it isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Keeping an upright posture, shoulders back, straight back, head up – can you take 10 steps by putting the heel of your front foot to touch the toes on your back foot? Pretend you are walking an invisible tightrope.

5. Knees Up

Begin in a standing position and be aware of your posture. When you are ready begin walking bringing those knees up as high as you can. You will look like you are marching. Do this slowly focusing on control. Aim for 30 – 60 seconds.

At Vitalize, we can help you develop and improve these skills through Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, or Functional Assessment Screenings.

Take care from Simon, Kerrie and the Vitalize team Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/vitalizephysiotherapy www.vitalizephysiotherapy.co.uk 07305 050 887

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During 2022 we have had some great successes. We have put on four full length plays with widely differing themes and have attracted a jolly good crowd each time. We have also hosted 10 jazz nights and many other musical events and hirings. We hope 2023 will see continuing success for Ashby’s own little theatre.

What’s on

On Saturday 10th December the Venture Jazz Club puts on it’s Christmas party with Ashby Big Band. A great seasonal show playing tunes from Glen Miller, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and even Jools Holland. As well as great music, there will also be a small Christmas snack and festive fun. Tickets cost £15.

The first Venture Jazz Club event in 2023 will be the appearance of our great favourite, Spats Langham and his Hot Fingers band. He is coming on Saturday 14th January and tickets will sell quickly. Spats plays 1920’s/30’s music which

coupled with his fantastic stories makes a great evening. Tickets cost £15.

On Saturday 21st January the great pop bandHey! Beatles will be returning. Come and see the whole story of Britain’s greatest group. Tickets cost £12.

In March we present our next Dramatic Society play - ‘The Turn of the Screw’ by Henry James, adapted by Patrick Prior. Why not come and immerse yourself in this chilling, gripping tale with an extraordinary climax? See our website for more details with dates and times.

Tickets for all our productions are available online at ashbyventuretheatre.org.uk or by calling Ken Ward on 01530 589 268.

Why you should have a Lasting Power of Attorney

Luke Smyth, head of our Wills and Probate Department discusses this important subject.

At Simpson Jones we firmly believe that everyone should have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place. Our new head of department, Luke Smyth, says that “it can be hard to digest but the course of your life can change in a heartbeat. In a matter of moments you can go from being fit and healthy to being hospitalised and unable to manage your own affairs”.

Whilst this may seem dramatic, if you want to be certain that your legal affairs are in order if you lose capacity then you need to ensure that you have a professionally drafted Lasting Power of Attorney. A Lasting Power of Attorney is the document which appoints people to deal with matters for you should you ever lose capacity and it will help your loved ones during what will be a challenging time for them. We believe that you should make your Lasting Power of Attorney because:

You control what happens. If you lose capacity then your appointed people can make decisions for

you. This could be in respect of your money, your property, and your healthcare.

You decide who is in charge because you appoint trusted individuals to act in your best interests. This could be your partner, your children or friends and you can appoint several people to act for you.

If you do not have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place and you lose capacity then it can be very difficult to manage your affairs. Your loved ones are not automatically entitled to take control of your affairs. They may be required to apply to court for a specialist court order which is expensive, stressful and time-consuming.

It offers peace of mind to your loved ones. Accidents can happen and aged-related illnesses are becoming more prevalent. If you have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place you can be assured that even if the worst were to happen your affairs will be looked after by someone you can trust.

If you would like to discuss making your Lasting Power of Attorney please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Plan ahead. Talk to one of our specialists today.

Derby & Ashby

Across:

Faction (4)

Boyfriend (4)

Appearance of young (9)

To go aimlessly (5)

Maori ceremonial greeting (4)

Express triumph (6)

Horse associated (6)

Fact (5)

Deep unhappiness (5)

Exchange money (6)

Bushbaby (6)

Bulgarian currency (4)

Display of cowboy specific skills (5)

High-fat dietary therapy (4)

Adorn with stone fruit trees (9)

Con (4)

Florence, leading actor (4)

Down:

Work together (4)

North England river (4)

Large flat area in North Europe (6)

Very emotional (6)

Narrow ledge (4)

Thick, hooked process (4)

Chinese Muslims (3)

Large quantity (9)

Understand previous event after (9)

Additional (5)

Metropolitan (5)

Customary (5)

Officially inform (6)

Round bodied fowl (6)

Strike (4)

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Partnership (3)

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Sharp sudden pain (4)

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Ashby Museum

Ashby Museum News

A very big thank you to all who supported our Ian Clews memorial quiz at the end of October. It was a great success and enjoyed by all.

The Museum regularly gets donated fascinating material for its archives. Thank you to David Page, for his original transcript of his 1973 MA thesis entitled “Ashby-de-la-Zouch, The Social Structure of a Mid-Victorian Market Town, 18561865”. It is packed with very useful information about Ashby 170 years ago.

We have also had donated the wall clock (see photo) given to Miss Annie Meaden an old girl of Ashby Girls’ Grammar School on the occasion of her marriage, by fellow teachers at Measham Sunday School in August 1913. It is now on the Ferrers Community room wall and keeping perfect time. Our thanks to Alan Measures for his grandmother’s clock.

Education outreach: A Market Bosworth primary school are doing a project on World War 2 and are using one of our loan boxes , including a baby gas mask and helmets for the children to wear. We also had a Beaver group visiting in

November for one of their meetings in the early evening.

Bamfords: No valuations in January. The first event of 2023 will take place on Monday 6th February 2023.

Christmas Cards: remember to make your purchases before we close at 1.30pm on Wednesday 21st December. (Reopening on Tuesday 4th January.)

Finally, a big thankyou to all who have supported your local museum during 2022. Happy Christmas and we look forward to 2023 with optimism.

NeurologicalConditions

Local Events

Friday 25th November to Friday 23rd December

12 Days of Christmas Trail

Visit Sharpe’s Pottery Museum in Swadlincote throughout December and travel through the 12 days of Christmas… who knows, Santa might have a special prize for you if you get all of his questions right. 10am to 4.30pm. £2 per trail sheet. Drop in, no need to book!

Friday 2nd, Saturday 3rd, Friday 16th & Saturday 17th December

Umpah Nights

Grab your lederhosen and head along to Swadlincote Snowsports Centre for the eagerly anticipated return of their Umpah Nights! Enjoy a bucks fizz on arrival, a variety of German beers and a themed menu. £20 per ticket. Arrive between 6pm and 7pm until midnight. Call 01283 890 089 or see www.jnlswadlincote. co.uk/event/whats-on/ to book.

Saturday 3rd December

Here We Go Again

Ashbeian Musical Theatre Group return to the stage with their ‘Here We Go Again’ concert. The show will begin at 7.30pm and will be held at Ashby School, Nottingham Road, Ashby with a

bar and refreshments during the interval. Tickets cost £10. Please call the Box Office on 07527 228 945 for more details and to book.

Saturday 3rd December

Christmas Fayre Head along to Blackfordby Village Hall between 12noon and 3pm and you will be sure to receive a warm welcome. Get into the Christmas spirit with lots of stalls selling festive produce, Christmas crafts and more. There will also be a tombola, a raffle and refreshments available.

Sunday 4th December Christmas Craft Fair

The Christmas Craft Fair at Moira Furnace will bring festive cheer, a chance to buy some truly unique gifts for loved ones, and maybe even a chance to see Santa before his big night. With over 50 stalls, hot food vendors, Gresley Colliery Band performing all day, a traditional Penny Arcade, mini stream train rides, boat rides, and Christmas have-a-go crafts, all bundled with free parking and free entry, what’s not to love? 10am to 3pm.

Wednesday 7th December

Ashby Film Nights

Enjoy a festive film followed by a warm winters meal at the Lyric Rooms, Lower Church Street, Ashby. The Christmas comedy ‘Get Santa’ stars Jim Broadbent and Rafe Spall. After Santa Claus is arrested and jailed,

a recently paroled prisoner and his young son attempt to save Christmas before it’s too late. Doors and bar open at 6.30pm. The meal starts at 7pm followed by the film. Tickets cost £12.50 and can be booked by calling 07976 493 834 or emailing enquiries@ thelyricrooms.co.uk

of booking fee. See: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ ashby-concert-band/t-vvxkoak or search for ‘AshbyConcertBand’ on Facebook.

Saturday 10th December Christmas Market

The Tap House, Annwell Lane, Ashby will be holding their first ever Christmas Market between 10am and 2pm. The market will host lots of local businesses selling everything from wreaths to natural dog treats to personalised gifts and more. A German market barbecue with delicious Bratwursts will also be running to get you into the Christmas mood. For the children, look out for Santa’s grotto and an appearance from Ruby the horse. All this plus a charity raffle in aid of Barnardo’s. Entry is free.

Saturday 17th December

Ashby Concert Band Christmas Concert

It’s the most wonderful time of the year; when music and merriment fill the air. Ashby Concert Band will be performing Christmas music at Holy Trinity Church to get us all into the Christmas spirit at 3pm. With a mince pie and drink at the interval and musical favourites such as Let it Snow, Let the Bells Ring and White Christmas, the concert is not to be missed. Tickets are available from Ticketsource for £11 for adults, £6 for children and free for under 5’s, inclusive

Saturday

17th to Tuesday 20th December Magical Santa Show

Join Santa and his elves for a fun packed show full of festive cheer, songs and merriment at Tamworth Castle. Prior to the show, children will have the opportunity to write a letter to Santa, post it through a magic letter box and create a Christmas keep sake. Each child will be presented with a gift from Santa and his elves and bid them a fond farewell. Pre-booking essential. Adults £10.00, Child £17.95. Admission times: 9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. www.tamworthcastle.co.uk/events

Thursday 22nd December

Christmas Comedy Night Funhouse Comedy will be bringing a Christmas Special night of laughter to the Lyric Rooms in Ashby. Topping the bill is the incredible Scott Bennett who recently made his ‘Live at the Apollo’ debut. Opening the night will be the very likeable, down to earth and madcap Lindsey Santoro. Completing the line-up is the lively Raj Poojara. Compere for the night will be the chatty and cheerful Spiky Mike. Tickets £15 in advance. 7.15pm doors, 8pm start. Book online at www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

We always recommend you check with the event organiser before you visit to confirm details.

It’s FREE to feature your event on this page or on our website. Please submit your full event details online at www.ashbylife. co.uk/submit-event.html. Deadline for submissions for the January issue is Thursday 8th December. Life Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. For any queries, please email info@lifemagazines.co.uk

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Castle Medical Group

Staff Updates

We would like to welcome Julia who has joined the team as an Advance Nurse Practitioner, Sally as a patient service advisor and Rebecca in our prescription management team.

Patient Service Advisor

As a practice we thought it was important to review whether the name of our receptionists was still appropriate for the role that they play within the practice. After consultation with the team, they decided that they would prefer to be known as Patient Service Advisors and we have now implemented this job title change within our practice. We are not alone in doing this and other practices have Patient Service Advisors or similar as part of their team

Christmas and New Year

Please note we will be closed on Monday 26th and Tuesday 27th December 2022 and Monday 2nd January 2023. If you need medical advice, please ring 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk.

There will be a number of pharmacies open and details of those open will be available on our website - www.castlemedicalgroup.co.uk . If your symptoms are deemed to be life threatening e.g. a heart attack, stroke or severe bleeding that can’t be stopped, please attend a local emergency department or ring 999.

We would like to wish all of our patients a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and thank you for your continued support. We have received lots of feedback from our patients which we appreciate, and our team are always overwhelmed by the kind words that they receive from you.

4th & 18th December

Festive Sunday Lunch 12.30pm – 3pm - Booking Only 2 courses £19.50pp & 3 courses £24.50pp

11th December

Festive Vintage Afternoon Tea with carol singers

Between 2 &4pm £19.50 pp or £24.50 pp with a glass of Prosecco on arrival Bookings only

17th December

Christmas Party Night 7pm - 12am Music through the decades, with a festive buffet, mulled wine, dancing and DJ Only £30 per person

Ashby Ivanhoe / Moira Judo Club

Fifty two years ago in 1970 Ivanhoe Judo Club was founded at the Ashby Ivanhoe School. In 2021 Ashby Ivanhoe and Moira Judo Clubs merged and they are now based at Moira Miners Welfare Club. We are a club for everyone, no matter what your age, race, gender, or experience. We are passionate about teaching the core values and techniques of Judo and strive to instil a high level of discipline in our students.

The Club has a strong family heritage, and we currently have several generations of the same family training and taking part in competitions. Our competition success is down to the high standard of coaching and the support and involvement from the families of all our judokas. We have won national and area championships

and we have two generations of Sensei who have represented the GB Team at international level.

If you’re looking for an experience that engages every part of your mind and body, a way to keep fit, stay mentally agile, build your confidence, and meet new friends, contact the Club by one of the methods below or just come and join us for a free taster training session.

We offer different sessions dependant on your age and ability from 4 years to seniors, so come down and enjoy our friendly, fun, and fully equipped judo club.

All of the instructors hold coaching certificates with the Amateur Judo Association or British Judo Association (AJA and BJA) as well as training in first aid and safeguarding of young people.

We meet at Moira Miners Welfare Club, Bath Lane, Moira, Swadlincote, DE12 6BP every Tuesday night.

Mat Fees & Times

For new members, the first session is free!

Under 5’s: £3.00 – 6.00pm to 6.40pm Juniors: £3.50 – 6.00pm to 7.30pm Seniors 16+: £4.00 – 7.30pm to 9.00pm

Call or Text: 0755 225 8812 Email: AIMJudoClub@ gmail.com Facebook Community: search for ‘Ashby Ivanhoe / Moira Judo Club’

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f ylima

We understand that family is the most important thing in your life. So it’s good to know that, with the right advice, protecting them can be easy should the unthinkable happen. It can also be immensely reassuring. Our friendly, approachable service is backed by the strength and security of FTSE 100 company St. James’s Place Wealth Management. And being local means we’re here whenever you need us. Together we can understand your needs, talk through all the options and, most importantly, find the solution that’s right for you. We can’t prevent the unexpected from happening, but we can make sure you’re fully prepared to face the future if it does.

e priceless gift of love

Christmas is coming! Traditionally it’s a time for giving and receiving, coming together with friends and family, a time for happiness and enjoyment. Sadly, this is not the case for everyone, especially at this festive time. This year many will be anxious about the rising cost of living and the uncertainties and challenges which may lie ahead. In these circumstances it is easy – yet understandable – to focus on ourselves and our personal difficulties; forgetting that there are many facing similar, possibly more extreme, challenges as well.

Perhaps it’s a good time to reflect on the fact that giving and receiving isn’t about big gestures and expensive presents. Very often happiness comes from simple things – sharing with others the things that are important in our lives doesn’t have to cost money yet can be extremely valuable to both giver and receiver.

Love and kindness, care and compassion, understanding and forgiveness cost nothing and

have the power to enrich lives and bring comfort and happiness even in times of difficulty and loneliness. These are the very characteristics of God, the Father of all, that were demonstrated in the life of the Lord Jesus Christ and are at the heart of the Gospel message in the Bible. The apostle Paul encouraged the early Christian church in Ephesus to “be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you”. God’s free gift to the human race is the opportunity to gain eternal life, a life without pain and suffering and all of the difficulties of the present.

Useful passage to look up: Hebrews ch13 v16

Editorial by Ashby Christadelphian Church, Union Passage, Ashby. www.ashbychurch.co.uk Facebook: @AshbyChristadelphianChurch

Christmas rose

The Christmas rose would make a lovely seasonal gift. Christmas legend says that this plant appeared in Bethlehem when an old shepherd who has no gift for baby Jesus cried and his tears turned to flowers to give to the baby. The Latin name for the Christmas rose is Helleborous niger. It is an evergreen perennial which is actually a member of the buttercup family. The erect stems support flowers with petals which look like velvet paper which appear in a blast of beautiful wintery whiteness. The flowers of this hardy plant are usually continuous from December to February and sometimes for longer from November to March.

This plant grows to around 30cm high and looks good in perennial boarders and as under planting to a canopy of trees or the edges of deciduous shrubs. It grows well in shade and partial shade and is suitable for our local clay soil, and also in light and well drained soil. In addition, it is tolerant of acidic and alkaline soil. This popular plant has the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Snow will make the plant droop a bit but otherwise it is unaffected and the flowers spring back up.

After a few years the plants can be divided into 2 or 3 plants and spread around to create a lovely grouping. The leaves are a dark green setting off beautifully the crisp whiteness of the flower. After the plant has finished flowering and is past its best it can be tidied up by removing browning leaves and any leggy stems. I usually do this in the end of March or April.

Jobs for December

• Brighten up tubs and borders with Primulas

• Sharpen any blunt tools

• Harvest sprouts (pick from the base upwards) parsnips, kale and cabbages

• Cover crops sown in autumn, such as broad beans, with a fleece

• Net cabbages and brasicas so they are not eaten by pigeons

• Wrap any non frost-proof pots and garden ornaments with bubble wrap

• Clean plant pots and seed trays

• Decorate for the season with cuttings from your garden, holly, ivy or spotted laurel for garlands, table displays or wreaths.

The Christmas rose can be grown in pots in John Innes potting compost too. Placing the plants in a cold frame or green house can encourage early flowering.

It is always interesting to delve into the story of plants and it is uplifting to learn that the Christmas rose is said to symbolise a pioneering spirit and survival – just perfect for cold times.

Happy Christmas and New Year.

By local garden designer, Francesca Sinclair

For bespoke contemporary and traditional garden design www.francescasinclair.co.uk 07901 547 360

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Festive Fire Safety

Christmas is a time for friends and family, enjoying nibbles and a tipple, pulling crackers, twinkling decorations and opening presents. Remember to be fire safe in the midst of all the festivities.

• Don’t cook if you have been drinking and never leave cooking unattended.

• Never place candles near your Christmas tree or materials that can catch alight easily.

• Keep candles, lighters and matches out of children’s reach. Never leave lit candles unattended.

• Never overload electrical sockets. Always switch Christmas lights off and unplug them before you go to bed.

• Decorations can burn easily – so don’t attach them to lights or heaters.

• Take time to check on older relatives and neighbours this Christmas as they are potentially

at greater risk from fire.

• Make sure your family and visitors know how to escape in an emergency.

• Check your Christmas tree lights carry this British Safety Standard sign.

Meghan Ratcliffe Ashby Fire Station Follow us on Facebook -

@LFRSAshby

Buy a gift of love for families and friends this Christmas!

You can help make a real, practical impact with a Christmas gift from Christian Aid - from seeds and saplings to schooling. Every gift you buy supports Christian Aid’s work and helps transform lives around the world. Every purchase acts as a donation and local partners use the money to work on a specific programme or project.

Do you get an actual gift?

When you buy a virtual gift from Christian Aid Charity Gifts, you or your lucky recipient(s) don’t get an actual goat or a pair of chickens (although we know it would be pretty cool if you did). What you do get for each gift is a physical or printat-home card. Each card explains a bit more about the gift and tells a story about someone – a real person – who benefited from a similar contribution. Write your message in it, give it yourself or send it direct.

How does buying a charity gift work?

• Choose and buy gifts for your loved ones.

• Your money acts as a donation; it goes into a fund for each area of Christian Aid’s work. If you buy the gift of a goat, your money goes into our Nutrition & Food Security fund and so on.

• Every gift is represented by a card. You can write a personal message inside it. Then you can arrange to either have it sent to you or to whoever you’ve bought the gift for.

• Our local partner uses the money you’ve donated to work on a particular programme or project – like supplying goats to families in Ethiopia.

Where does Gift Aid fit in?

As your purchase of a virtual gift is actually a donation, you can opt in for Gift Aid (if you’re a UK taxpayer). There’s no VAT due.

The charity gifts include:

• Cookstove £15.00

• A nanny goat £35.00

• A beehive £63.00

• Emergency disaster hygiene kit £29.00

• A pair of chickens £8.00

• Five mosquito nets £15.00

• A sheep £37.00

• Tropical juice kit £40.00

• Healthcare Essentials kit £31.00

• Send a child to school £18.00

• Train a soap-maker £15.00

• Train a tailor £23.00

Got a question? Christian Aid Supporter Care team is happy to answer your questions about Christian Aid Charity Gifts. Email charitygifts@ christian-aid.org or call 01925 573769

Ashby and District Christian Aid Group

Community Board

Charnwood Voices at Christmas

On Saturday 3rd December a small group of Charnwood Voices Choir will be carol singing in the Carillon Court shopping centre in Loughborough between 10am and 1pm raising funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK. They hope to raise funds for this relatively small and less well known charity after losing a member of the choir to this awful disease. Do wander by and see them with any change you can spare.

Christmas Food Drive 3 local charities; Miles For Smiles, Ashby Sands United FC & Ronnie’s Rockets have joined forces to collect goods & food to pass on to those who may find Christmas particularly difficult this year. They need non-perishable food, toiletries, unused toys, sanitary products & sleeping bags etc. They will be collecting from Measham Leisure Centre on Thursday 1st December 6pm-7pm & Moira Village Hall on the Thursday 8th of December. If you have donations after these dates, please contact Matt on 07951 608 259, Craig on 07956 151336 or Callum on 07854 776 003 & they will collect. Search ‘MSR at Christmas’ on Facebook to find more details.

Prenatal & Postnatal Support

Nesting Lotus provide Midwife led, water based exercise classes specifically designed to support both an active lifestyle during pregnancy, and a gentle re-introduction to exercise following birth. All fitness levels and swimming abilities welcome. A fantastic way to meet other local Mums. £12 per class. 8pm to 9pm each Tuesday at Whitwick and Coalville Leisure centre. Book online at www. nestinglotus.co.uk

Mince Pies and Music

The festive feel to the next meeting of Ashby u3a comes courtesy of Gresley Male Voice Choir. Dig

out those Christmas jumpers and bring along your best carolling voice to the Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street, Ashby at 2pm on Tuesday 20th December. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available – along with a warm welcome. For more information go to ashbyu3a.co.uk or phone 01283 760 348.

A Walk through Winter Join Roots Community Singers for a wonderful celebration of the winter season at 7.30pm at Venture Theatre, Ashby on Friday 9th December. Their Christmas show will be a concert of seasonal songs, music, poems, stories and this year, for the first time, dance. The concert starts at 7.30 pm. Proceeds will be donated to the Air Ambulance Service. Tickets cost £10 and available from Sue by calling 07981 356 388 or emailing suek@bushwellfarm.co.uk

Helping your Local Community Hospice Hope are looking for donations of wool or knitted and crocheted warm cheerful items to help local vulnerable people stay warmer in their own home this winter. Gloves, mittens, scarves, hats and blankets are all welcome. You can leave your creative donations at Coalville Library which is open Monday and Saturday 10am to 1pm or Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10am to 5pm. Please contact Clare on 07591 952 027 or email clare@hospicehope.org.uk for more information.

Ashby Town Council Calendar of Meetings

All meetings start at 6.30pm and are held at Legion House, South Street, Ashby. Meetings for December: 5th – Events & Tourism, 12th - Planning & Transport, Licensing. Members of the public are welcome to join. Full details for attending can be found at www. ashbytowncouncil.gov.uk/meetings-calendar

Did you know you can put community information on this page free of charge (subject to space)? So, whether you are looking for new members, volunteers or just have some information that you’d like to let local people know about simply email the details over to us at info@lifemagazines.co.uk

love to hear from you.

No one does Christmas like Nigella, which is why this glorious yule log is the ideal centrepiece for your festive lunch.

Top Tip Don’t expect perfection. Remember that trees are naturally wonky and flawed. Be sure not to over stir the cake mix; you want it light and airy.

Method

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/gas mark 4/350°F. In a large, clean bowl whisk the egg whites until thick and peaking, then, still whisking, sprinkle in 50g / ¼ cup of the caster sugar and continue whisking until the whites are holding their peaks but not dry. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks and the remaining caster sugar until the mixture is moussy, pale and thick. Add the vanilla extract, sieve the cocoa powder over, then fold both in. Finally, gently fold in the egg yolks.

2 Line a Swiss roll tin with baking parchment, leaving a generous overhang at the

Nigella Lawson’s Yule Log

ends and sides, and folding the parchment into the corners to help the paper stay anchored. Pour in the cake mixture and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Let the cake cool a little before turning it out onto another piece of baking parchment. If you dust this piece of parchment with a little icing sugar it may help with preventing sticking, but don’t worry too much as any tears or dents will be covered by icing later. Cover loosely with a clean tea towel.

3 To make the icing, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl suspended over a pan of simmering water, then let it cool. Put the icing sugar into a processor and blitz to remove lumps, add the butter and process until smooth. Add the cooled, melted chocolate and the tablespoon of vanilla extract and pulse again to make a smooth icing.

4 Sit the flat chocolate cake on a large piece of baking parchment. Trim the edges of the Swiss roll. Spread some of the icing thinly over the sponge, going right out to the

Ingredients (serves 12)

For the cake

• 6 large eggs (separated)

• 150 grams caster sugar

• 50 grams cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Cranberries (to decorate)

For the icing

• 175 grams dark chocolate (chopped)

• 250 grams icing sugar

• 225 grams soft butter

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

edges. Start rolling from the long side facing you, taking care to get a tight roll from the beginning, and roll up to the other side. Pressing against the parchment, rather than the tender cake, makes this easier.

5 Spread the yule log with the remaining icing, covering the cut-off ends. Create a wood-like texture by marking along the length of the log with a skewer or sharp knife and finish with a handful of cranberries.

Festive pets

Treat cats this Christmas with lean slithers of meat - chicken is fine, and they’ll devour any leftover turkey. Mix it up with vegetables such as carrots, swedes, parsnips and sprouts – all very seasonal! –but ensure you do so in moderation.

Also ensure you don’t give your cats any of the following:

• Any seasoned meats, or meats cooked in or including gravy, goose fat or stuffing

• Onions, as they are highly toxic

• Cranberry sauce, as it is too sugary

• Chestnuts and bacon, as these contain too much fat

• Chocolate, as it’s toxic to both cats and dogs

• Potato, in any form, as it contains solanine, which is poisonous

For dogs, they can have boneless and skinless white meat, boiled or plain mashed potatoes (remembering not to add any butter or salt), and small amounts of veg, such as sprouts, green

beans, carrots, courgettes, parsnips, cauliflower, peas and spinach. Scrambled eggs works well as it contains vitamins, minerals and protein, and little bits of fruit will go down well, although watch the natural sugar content.

You should also ensure you avoid the following:

• Any meat with bones

• Gravy, as it’s too fatty and salty

• Herbs and spices, including stuffing

• Bulb veg, such as onions, shallots, chives, leek and garlic

• Chocolate as, again, this is toxic

• Mince pies, fruit cakes, raisins, grapes, sultanas, currants and Christmas pudding

• Pigs in blankets, as they are too high in salt and fat

Later Life Planning – Part 1

Why plan?

Your retirement may last more than half as long as your whole career. And like your career, it will go through different stages – so you should plan carefully for these. Most of us will need to consider at least a number of the steps below as we move into older age.

Review your pension choices

If you taking your income via a Drawdown Scheme, it’s a good idea to review your strategy every couple of years and regularly check its performance. Your adviser may recommend making adjustments (either to the scheme or to how much you withdraw). You should definitely review this if there are significant changes in your own circumstances or the economy.

Equity release

If you find yourself property rich and cash poor you could consider using your property as a source of money to help fund your retirement. Unlocking the value of your property while continuing to live there is called equity release. There are two main kinds of equity release: a lifetime mortgage, and a home reversion plan;

• Lifetime mortgage

This is a loan secured against your home. You receive a taxfree lump sum to spend as you wish, and the loan is repaid

from the value of your home when it is sold.

• Home reversion plan

This is where you sell part or all of your home to a specialist company in exchange for a tax-free lump sum. A guaranteed lifetime lease entitles you to continue living in the property rent-free for as long as you wish.

Lasting Power of Attorney

It is highly advisable to set up Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) while you are still fit and healthy. Should you become unable to manage your financial affairs yourself, LPA will allow another trusted person (e.g. your spouse or children) to do so on your behalf. Without a LPA in place your spouse or other family will not have automatic access to your finances should you become incapacitated. In

this instance they would have to apply through the Court of Protection to become legal Guardians, which can be an expensive, long and frustrating process.

These are just a few of the initial things to consider, check back next month where we will cover more aspects of later life planning…

If you require advice on any of these stages please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free initial consultation.

Such has been the growth in business since Alan Wilson opened his ChipsAway Car-Care-Centre in Ashby in 2012, the need to move to bigger premises was inevitable. As Alan explains, “We now have over 4,000 customers from across our territory, which spans from Swadlincote through Ashby, taking in Ibstock, Whitwick, Coalville and continues right through to Ratby, Groby and part of Glenfield. The need for bigger premises has been on the agenda for some time now and we are delighted to have secured this impressive new facility right in the heart of our area, at Apollo Court, Coalville. This new Car-Care-Centre is centrally placed for all of our customers and we are delighted to have added a new trainee technician Sam, who has joined our existing fully qualified team.” All ChipsAway technicians are trained to the highest possible UK Industry Standards (IMI, ATA, & BVRLA).

IMPORTANT: ChipsAway are taking every precaution to protect our Customers and Staff during the Covid-19 Pandemic. We have Strict Procedures in place to ensure that Social Distancing will be observed at all times. Customers Keys and the parts of their cars that our Technicians come into contact with, will be Sanitised before and after repairs take place. Technicians will be wearing Gloves and Masks at all times and all Payments will be taken Electronically, with no Cash or Paper exchanging hands.

Professional quality automotive paint and bodywork repairs that are quick convenient and fully guaranteed.

Professional Quality

Our fully-equipped CarCare Centre allows us to deliver quality repairs to everyday damage

Convenient

Same day repairs Collection and return service from home or work Repaired to a high quality commercial standard At a fraction of the price of traditional body shop methods.

Value for Money

We specialise in repairing everyday car paint and bodywork damage and because we don’t deal with major crash repairs, we don’t have the expensive overheads that a traditional bodyshop might have - meaning we can pass these savings onto our customers.

ChipsAway

CarCare Centre

Unit 14, Apollo Court Vulcan Way Coalville LE67 3AP

MINOR DENTS

BUMPER SCUFFS PAINTWORK SCRATCHES

Winter Wildlife

Despite the chilly weather, there is still plenty of wildlife to see during the winter months. So wrap up warm and get outdoors!

Birds of prey

Winter can be a great time of year to look for birds of prey. Short-eared owls can be seen more widely in the winter, as migrants join resident birds. They mainly hunt during the daytime, flying low over moorland and grasslands. Winter can also be a great time of year to look for barn owls, as they often extend their hunting hours into daylight to find the extra food they need to get them through the colder months.

Winter mammals

Although some mammals like hedgehogs and bats hibernate during winter, there are still lots of mammals that remain active including deer, badgers, foxes, water voles and otters. Spotting mammals in the winter can be easier as mud, frost, and snow can reveal tracks and footprints, so make sure to check the ground when you are out walking.

Winter waders

The winter may feel chilly to us, but for waders nesting in the Arctic, the UK is a paradise! Every autumn wading birds head for our food-rich wetlands in astounding numbers. At Rutland Water Nature Reserve, tens of thousands of wildfowl arrive every winter, with as many as 25,000 ducks, geese and swans being recorded.

Winter flowers

Winter aconites and snowdrops are some of the most cheerful sightings in midwinter. Enjoy the carpets of yellow and white that appear, giving hope that warmer times are on the way and spring is just around the corner!

Starling Murmurations

During the winter months, large numbers of starlings visit Britain. As dusk arrives, the starlings set off for their communal roost in one of the most staggering natural spectacles of all. Flocks arrive from all directions, gathering in the skies above their roost sites. Tens of thousands of starlings will take part in the murmurations, which create incredible swirling shapes in the sky, contracting and expanding as one flock merges into another. A truly breathtaking experience to see.

How you can help wildlife this winter

Winter can be difficult for many wildlife species, especially with sudden temperature drops. To help wildlife thrive through this season, here are some things you can do to help:

Keep it wild: Let your garden stay wild throughout the winter. Undisturbed piles of leaves and logs make great homes for animals to hide and hibernate in. Some insects will also nest in dead vegetation, compost and leaf litter.

Provide food: Birds can find it harder to find natural food supplies during the cold weather; so make sure your feeders and bird tables are well stocked. Provide water: Unfrozen water for drinking and bathing may be hard for birds to find during a frost, so providing a small shallow dish of fresh, clean water will help them out.

Break the Ice: If you have a frozen pond in your garden, make sure you gently make holes in the ice. Frozen pond water can cause toxic gasses to build-up, which can harm fish or frogs that may be hibernating at the bottom.

Help protect local wildlife and wild places by supporting Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, find out more at lrwt.org.uk

By Jordan Linthwaite, Communications & Engagement Assistant

Black to move and win in 3

It looks like a sustained attack on b2 by Black will win the day. But is there a better way ?

First of all, seasons regards from Ashby Chess Club. We hope you have enjoyed trying our puzzles this year and are looking forward to more next year. Chess is now played by millions online, but many consider that it is far better enjoyed when playing face to face with another person. Ashby has an excellent Chess Club with over 20 members and welcomes people of all ages and playing abilities. We meet in the Front Lounge of the Ivanhoe Social Club in Wilfred Place from 7pm on Thursday evenings. If you are interested in joining us contact Neil Roberts on 07804 743 471 or njhammer145@gmail.com.

You can also check us out online at ashbychess. co.uk where amongst other things there is an

interactive daily puzzle like this one. To play the above puzzle interactively, go to chess.com/dailychess-puzzle and scroll back through the dates to Nov 10, 2022.

The solution can be found on page 116.

THE GROWING NEED FOR INTERGENERATIONAL PLANNING

With the next 30 years set to witness the largest ever intergenerational passing of wealth, the need for inheritance advice has never been greater. Intergenerational planning, however, can also help with more immediate financial needs, particularly when generations work collaboratively to find solutions that support the whole family both now and in the future.

Inflation concerns - Currently, financial pressures are proving a key challenge across all generations, especially the impact of soaring energy bills as we move towards the winter period. The cost-of- living squeeze, though, is not only impacting people’s current spending power but also their future decision-making capabilities with regard to key issues such as housing, private education or university.

Balancing current and future needs - This has resulted in families increasingly adopting integrated strategies, especially in relation to gifting, to address imminent financial challenges. While reducing future Inheritance Tax liabilities inevitably remains at the heart of intergenerational planning decisions, the growing necessity to balance today’s and tomorrow’s needs is resulting in the focus shifting to support for children and grandchildren now.

Involving the generations - Intergenerational planning

tends to be most effective when the process is not just focused on those who currently hold wealth. While funding a comfortable retirement and quality of care for the ‘caretaker’ generations remain fundamental elements of intergenerational planning, delivery of support for the coming generations and ensuring wealth passes efficiently to the right individuals at the right time have become increasingly important dimensions.

More families share an adviser - Greater involvement across multiple generations has also seen sharing a financial adviser become increasingly commonplace. This trend offers significant benefits, particularly when it comes to joining up a whole family’s needs with inheritance and gifting strategies, while treating all family members fairly.

Encouraging conversations - If your family needs help with any aspect of intergenerational planning, then please get in touch. We’ll be happy to assist by encouraging more open financial conversations across the generations.

At DGS we take the time to understand our client’s unique planning needs and circumstances, so that we can provide you with the most suitable solutions in the most cost-effective way. For a free review of your current financial situation, please contact Ian Staley 01530 567020.

Aerials & Satellite

Satellite Aerial Services 47

Architects

Cam Butler Ward 25 Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Jewellery & Toys

Ashby Bears 41

Christian Rose Violins 107

Jennie B’s Wool Shop 12

Souk de la Zouch 24

The Olive Branch Toy Shop 28 Builders & Building Supplies

Beeston Building and Groundworks 72 Charities

Work Live Leicestershire 81 Childcare, Clubs, Schools & Tuition Grace Dieu Manor Park Holiday Club 69

David Hunt Soccer School 20 Hola Spanish 23 Titchy Town 13 Top Marks Tutoring 20 Tumbletots 45 Chiropodists

Ashby Chiropody & Podiatry Clinic 81 Perfect Feet Podiatry and Chiropody Clinic 88 Cleaning, Ironing & Laundry Services

Breedon Carpet Care 72 Deanclean 52

Diamond Ovens 52 Ovenclean 87 Skruub 56

Toni’s Ironing Angels 109 Clothing

Just For You 43 Dental Services

Beautiful Dentures 67 Domestic Appliances

1-4-All Appliance Repairs 112 Contracool Home Solutions Ltd 63 Driving Schools

Bardon School of Motoring 52 RDT School of Motoring 87 Electricians

A & J Bartlett Ltd 92

DDS Sleep Eazee Electrical 73 M D Smiths Ltd 69

P A Smart Electrical Services 94 Ramsell & Watkins 114

Estate Agents & Housing

Alexanders Estate Agents 11

Cameron Homes 68

Royston & Lund 17 Events & Attractions

Ashby de la Zouch Civic Society 15

Ashby Santa Fun Run 33 Derby Arena 16

Stags Head Events 28 Through the Wardrobe 28

Timber Festival 19

Financial Services

Advance Insurance Services [Midlands] Ltd 87

DGS IFA Ltd 117

Great British Finance 104

Ivanhoe Financial Planning 84 Florists

Lavish Silks Bespoke Floral Design 70

Food & Drink

Moo Fresh 59

The Honest Wine Company 47 Funeral Services

Markfield Natural Burial Ground 65 Furniture Repairs and Restoration

Mark Miller Leather Cleaning & Repairs 85

Garden Maintenance

Arctic Cabins Ltd 44

Artisan of Ashby Limited 14

Charnwood Tree Services 115

Colour Fence Ltd 36

Eden Tree Care & Fencing Ltd 43 & 79

GDR Landscaping 114

Green Grass 85

Green Thumb (Ashby) 120 K D Can Do 45

Ken Ward 80

Redfern Landscape Ltd 63

Roughly Refined Garden Service 87

Silvan Tree Specialists 9

Stone Drives & Landscapes 78

Sunnyside Garden Centre 91 The Garden Warehouse 31 Hair & Beauty

Ashby Barbers 16

Fluffy by Jessica May 49 K H Hair 45

The Temple Hair Spa 29 Healthcare & Wellbeing

Ashby Osteopathic Clinic 37 Empowered to Nourish 79 Helen Forman 112

No Place Like Home 24

ProPhysio Ashby 35 Space Holistic Therapies 33 Stoneygate Eye Hospital 83

Motor Services

A D Car Cosmetics 72

Chips Away 109

Neville Cars 41

Speedy Auto Spares Ltd 20

Velocity Car Detailing 77 Painters & Decorators

Andy Weston Decorating 79 Design Decorators 114

James Pepper Property Solutions 107 Pet Services

Pooch la Zouch 79

Places of Worship

Ashby Christadelphian Church 86 Plasterers

Wooldridge Plastering Services 85 Plumbing, Heating & Gas Services B Wilkinson Plumbing 87

James Pepper Plumbing & Heating 67 Kirkland Plumbing & Heating 99 Mcgrath Plumbing and Heating 112

MJM Plumbing & Heating Services (Midlands) Ltd 116

S D Hill (Plumbers) 7

Therm Heating 79

Property Repairs & Maintenance

Access 4 Lofts (Stafford) 32

Ashbyhandyman.co.uk 63

CDM Property Maintenance 41 GW Property Maintenance 112 Silver Knight Property Maintenance 47 Tradewise Drives and Patios 108 Trust The Job 33

Pubs, Cafes, Restaurants & TakeAways

The Lyric Rooms 80

The Milking Parlour 53

........................................................ 111

Vitalize Physiotherapy 59 Home & Interiors Birch Bedrooms Ltd 92 FABCO Interiors 60 & 61 Fairweathers Carpets 105 Gliderobes

John Mills Curtains 8 Joy Interiors 23 Shuttercraft 102 The Bed Shop 5 The Stone & Tile Company 9 I T Services

Ashby IT Recycle 37 Code & Evolve Ltd 16 Kitchen & Bathroom

Dream Doors 89 Holme Tree 48 Kingswood Design 37

Owen Williams Kitchens 2 Robert Pochin 71

The Little Kitchen and Bathroom Company Limited 119

Locksmiths

Hazlewood Locksmiths 103 Lockfit Ltd 76 Misc / Notices

Ashby Gift Card 21 Ashby Town Council 27 Shared Lives Leicestershire 23 Straw Dog Records 23

The Priest House Hotel 12 Wong Kwei 62 Zamanis 3 Roofing

D H Phillips Flat Roofing 114 RSJ Roofing 112 T S Roofing 65 The Roofing Company (Leicestershire) Ltd 76

Solicitors & Will Writers

Crane & Walton 80

Fishers Solicitors 55

Martin Hall 107

Simpson Jones Solicitors 64

Timms Solicitors 93

Sports, Fitness & Leisure Fitness Republic 51

Sunnyside Adventure 39 Travel & Holidays

Skills Holidays 101 Windows & Doors

Easy Glide Garage Doors 115 Progress Windows 97 Window Mate 109

Lush green lawns in spring don’t just appear overnight, the preparation starts now. Lawns have a natural build-up of thatch. Thatch creates an environment irresistible to moss.

Aeration and Scarification reduce thatch, thus reducing moss. Simple!

Annual machine work is essential for a healthy lawn. Autumn and spring are the best times of year for your grass to benefit from Aeration & Scarification. Our Spring Ready Treatment will then be waiting patiently for the optimal weather conditions before releasing its nutrients onto your lawn at the best possible time.