Castle Donington Life December 2022

Donington

Editor Vanessa Preece 01530 417739

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Castle Donington 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, Castle Donington 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 to our bumper Christmas issue and congratulations to Lee Preston, the winner of our December front cover competition with his image of the Methodist Church here in Castle Donington.

WelcomeWithin this month’s magazine we hope you’ll find everything you need to celebrate the festive season to the full locally. On pages 32 and 33 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 Rotary Santa Sleigh Route to ensure you don’t miss any vital dates.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your Christmas shopping, then 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!

It’s a fantastic way to target potential customers and great value for money. See www.castledoningtonlife.co.uk or call us on 01530 417739 for details.

Castle Donington Volunteer Centre 8

This Month’s Competition 14

Santa Sleigh Routes 17 & 18

Christmas Church Services 20 & 21

Local Property News

The National Trust 26 Wines of the Month 30 Local Events 32 & 33

Castle Donington Fire Station 36 The National Forest 38

Local Pantomimes

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

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs –Nottingham Theatre Royal Saturday 3rd December to Sunday 8th January

Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don’t miss the fairest pantomime of them all! Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning scenery. Throw in a magical mirror, seven friendly dwarfs, a beautiful princess, a handsome prince and plenty of audience participation and you have the perfect recipe to outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages. Much-loved and top-selling comedian Joe Pasquale will star alongside Steps singer, television personality and West End star Faye Tozer. Book online at https://trch.co.uk/whats-on/22-23-snowwhite/ Tickets from £21.50.

Aladdin – Derby Arena

Friday 9th to Saturday 31st

December

Get whisked away this Christmas to the town of Shangri-La 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, breath-taking special effects, gorgeous costumes and mountains of mayhem. For booking see www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/ aladdin-2022/ Tickets cost £18 – £30.

Dick Whittington – Nottingham Playhouse

Friday 25th November to Saturday 14th January

Pack up your hanky and join plucky Dick Whittington and his trusty cat on their quest for fame and fortune. Follow their magical rags to riches tale to London, where the streets are paved with gold. The legendary Playhouse panto is back and full of sparkle, excitement and fun. Packed with dazzling dance, a brilliant live band and swashbuckling adventure, the show sees the return of Nottingham’s favourite panto dame John Elkington, who’ll be serving up some comedy chaos as Sarah the Cook. This year’s panto can be booked digitally or for an in-person visit. See nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk/events/dickwhittington/ Tickets from £18.

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.

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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.

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Santa Sleigh Route

Kegworth

The Shepshed Charnwood Rotary Santa float will be touring Kegworth again this Christmas collecting for local and national charities and good causes.

Friday 9th December

Whatton Road, Burley Rise, Hillside, Roberts Close, Foxhills, Broadhill Road, Oldershaw Avenue, Bulstrode Place, Sta ords Acre

Monday 12th December

High Street, Ashby Road, Langley Drive, Spring eld, Suthers Road, Windmill Way, Sibson Drive, Peppers Drive, Stonehills, Nine Acres, Pritchard Drive

Wednesday 14th December

Mill Lane, Kirk Avenue, Moore Avenue, Station Road (Mill Lane to Long Lane), Long Lane, Hu er Road, Side Ley, Citrus Grove, Howard Drive, Wood Drive

The float starts at 6.15pm each night

For the latest updates visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/shepshedcharnwoodrotary

Mon 5th Dec The Hollow, Barroon, Moira Dale, Garden Crescent, Eastway, Clapgun Street, Borough Street.

Tues 6th Dec Hastings Street, Stonehill, Hallam Fields, Bakewell Drive, Hall Farm Close.

Wed 7th Dec Spit re Estate, Paddock Close & Park Lane between them.

Thur 1st Dec Craner Road, Ayrton Drive & o shoots, Handley Place, Welsted Road, Pirelli Close, via Welsted Road and Craner Road to Path nder Way, Geraldine Way, Johnson Close & Webb Drive.

Sat 10th Dec Co-op Trent Lane - Static Collection.

The sleigh will follow the pre-set route, but rather than knock on all the doors Santa, his helpers and the sleigh will stop at regular intervals for the children to have a chat with Santa, to collect their sweets and if you wish, make a donation for local charities.

We will make as much noise as we possibly can to attract your attention to make the Santa sleigh visits as good as they always have been.

The routes are as follows, but may be changed. Please keep checking Facebook for updates (search for ‘The Rotary Club of Castle Donington’).

All evening collections are from 6pm to 8pm. Donations accepted in cash or SMS text donation. Please ask the elves for details.

Mon 12th Dec Towles Pastures, Shields Crescent, Bosworth Road, Park Lane & Studbrook Close.

Tues 12th Dec Cordwell Close, The Green & all roads o , Tipnall Road, Grange Drive and the rest of Park Lane.

Wed 14th Dec Huntingdon Drive, Campion Hill, Darsway (from Queensway), School Lane.

Mon 19th Dec Darsway (bottom), Hazelrigg, Walton Hill, start of Queensway, Bentley Road, Fox Road to top part of Queensway.

Tues 20th Dec Station Road, Glover Road, Tanyard Close, Spittal, Bondgate, High Street.

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Castle Donington Church Services

In the bible St. John tells us “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has never put it out.” Some of you might be thinking that may change in the near future with all the predictions of blackouts because of the war in Ukraine and the shortage of electricity, or even the cost of it. However, the Light that the bible speaks of is Jesus the light of the world, whose birth is celebrated at Christmas. He came in the darkest of times over 2000 years ago when life was even worse than it is now, and he brought Hope to the world. Hope that the love of God will shine a light into the darkness of men and women’s hearts as they learn to love and serve each other. Jesus, a vulnerable baby, God in human form, lived and died for everyone, good and bad alike so that in every age and generation, Jesus the light of the world will always overcome the darkness. This is the message of hope not only at Christmas but everyday of our lives if we accept it. A blessed and happy Christmas to you all from The Churches Together in Castle Donington.

St Edward’s Church, Castle Donington

Friday 16th December 7.45pm

Carol Concert with the Derbyshire Community Male Voice Choir - pre-booking required. Tickets available from the Church Office on 01332 812 708 £8 each or £10 for 2.

Thursday 22nd December 10am - Noon

Christmas Craft Workshop in St Edward’s Church Hall for all the family. Free of charge, but please let us know you’re planning to attend on 01332 812708.

Christmas Eve 3pm

Children’s Crib Service - very popular retelling of the Christmas Story. Come dressed as angels, shepherds, kings, Mary or Joseph.

Christmas Eve 11.30pm

Midnight Mass by Candlelight. Beautiful service, with carols & candles, but come warmly dressed

Christmas Day 10.30am

Christmas Day Holy Communion

St Nicholas’ Church, Lockington

Christmas Eve 8pm

Christmas Communion with carols & candles, followed by mince pies & mulled wine.

Deacon Barbara Crockett Minister of Castle Donington Methodist Church

St Andrew’s Church, Kegworth

Saturday 26th November 11am - 2pm St Andrew’s Fair

Sunday 4th December 5pm Christingle

Sunday 18th December 6.15pm Carol Service

Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Service

Christmas Day 10am Holy Communion at Osgathorpe Church

One Community Church, Castle Donington

Services will take place at The Donington Manor Hotel, High St, Castle Donington unless otherwise stated. All are welcome.

Sunday 27th November 10.30am

A hopeless end or an endless hope? Worship & words of inspiration to cheer the spirit Sunday 4th December 10.30am Hope foretold. God keeps his promises from long ago. Holy Communion will be celebrated. Sunday 11th December 6pm Light of Hope. Traditional carols by Candlelight. Join us and place a candle of hope for a loved one by our nativity scene. Festive refreshments will be served afterwards

Sunday 18th December 10.30am Hope Revealed. People react to Jesus the child of promise. What about us? Christmas Day 10am Hope in person. Join us in worship & Holy Communion for this short service of Thanksgiving. Held at The Light Station, 5 Clapgun Street, Castle Donington. Children are welcome to bring one of their Christmas gifts.

Methodist Church, Castle Donington

Saturday 26th November 10am - 2pm Christmas Fair

Sunday 18th December 6pm

Joint Candlelight Service led by the Methodist Church. Join us for the final service being held in the historic Castle Donington Methodist Church, after 116 years of worship. Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Morning Worship

The Church of the Risen Lord, Castle Donington

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

Castle Donington Churches Together

Saturday 24th December 6pm Castle Donington Churches Together invite you to the Community Carols in the Marketplace. Accompanied by the Salvation Army Band at 6pm outside the Methodist Church, Apiary Gate

What a year for the property market

What a year 2022 has been for the property market. As the country appeared to move away from the shackles of the Covid pandemic, the sales and lettings markets certainly prospered. Therefore, in the last issue of 2022 we wanted to provide our review of the property market over the last twelve months.

House Sales

The sales market moved into 2022 with the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 seemingly a thing of the past. As such, the pent up demand of the pandemic – along with a change in buyers attitudes – saw a buoyant market at the start of the year. Properties were seemingly selling in record time, and a number of sellers saw their property sell for more than the asking price. As a result, Leicestershire and Derbyshire have both seen really strong price growth, with both counties seeing growth above 8% and some areas achieving upwards of 10%!

The changes in government that came after the summer, with the budget announcement and market reactions, saw a slow down on the demand we had been seen in the first part of the year. Understandably, buyers waited to see what mortgage interest rates would do as the Bank of England raised its base rate and the lenders reacted to the market change. Going into the New Year, the mortgage market appears more stable, and buyers are adapting to the ‘new normal’. We look forward to helping buyers and sellers in 2023 move home and we will be available to offer advice on the market in your area whenever you need us.

Property Lettings

The lettings market has continued the trend of demand outstripping supply, with the majority of homes seeing huge interest from potential tenants. As a result, rents have increased across the board and we continue to see high demand going in to the new year from applicants.

Legislation changes – both confirmed and proposed by government – have rightly seen landlords grow increasingly concerned about

the compliance of their property. As a managing agent, we have had to react a number of times to these changes throughout the year, and we have been working tirelessly to ensure that every one of the properties we manage complies with the current government guidelines and regulations. With more to come in 2023, we will be ready to adapt to and implement any changes that are made.

In summary, it’s been a busy year in 2022 and we have been thrilled to help so many wonderful clients move home. We are proud to be serving the community of Castle Donington, and the wider Leicestershire and Derbyshire communities, and we will continue in 2023 and look forward to what is to come.

From all at Martin & Co, we wish you a very happy Christmas, New Year and festive season.

Starters

CRISPY FRIED HALLOUMI 5.50 V

Chunky halloumi fries, fried in a crisp tempura batter� Served with a chilli jam & salad garnish

CALAMARI 6.50

Seasoned calamari rings Served with a sharp tartare sauce & salad garnish

FISH GOUJONS 5.95

Lightly battered, bitesize fillets of cod Served with a sharp tartare sauce & salad garnish�

Salads

All our salads have an option of house dressing or an olive oil & balsamic dressing

HOUSE SALAD 6.95 V Green leaf mixed salad with tomato, onion, cucumber & pepper

GREEK HOUSE SALAD 8.95 V

Our House Salad with a Greek twist, an addition of mixed olives and Feta cheese

Burgers

All burgers are served with Chunky Chips, Homemade Onion Rings & Salad Garnish�

CLASSIC 6oz BEEF BURGER 11.95 Served in a toasted brioche bun, topped with smoky BBQ sauce, streaky bacon, Monterey jack cheese, lettuce, tomato & onion�

FISH FILLET BURGER 12.95 Chunky fillet of Cod Loin, cooked in a crispy light batter Served in a toasted brioche bun, topped with tartare sauce & a dollop of mushy peas

HALLOUMI BURGER 11.95 V Served in a toasted brioche bun, topped with chilli jam, lettuce, tomato & onion

Kebabs

All kebabs are served with Tzatziki on a Gyros Flatbread, accompanied by a salad selection, Mint Yoghurt & Sweet Chilli dip�

CHICKEN TIKKA 11.95 Mildly spiced chicken skewered & cooked on a chargrill Served with Chunky Chips

11.95 V Our House Salad with the addition of lightly fried Halloumi�

HALLOUMI HOUSE SALAD

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN

11.95 Lightly flavoured Lemon & garlic chicken skewered & cooked on a chargrill� Served with Chunky Chips�

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

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

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 or pop into the store on Borough Street – he’s always happy to chat all things wine! You can order online at www.thehonestwinecompanyltd.co.uk

Local Events

Friday 2nd to Saturday 24th December

A Yuletide Tale

Whatton House is running a brand NEW immersive adventure this Christmas ... a journey through festive tradition in search of midwinter magic. Meet the mischievous Lord of Misrule as he ventures through time to reveal The Holly King, the first St Nicholas, Krampus and much more. This is a specially created unique Yuletide event for all the family. Tickets from £21 plus booking fee. Book online at https://whattonhouse. co.uk/a-yuletide-tale

Friday 2nd December Christmas Cheer

Christmas Cheer is back from 5pm to 7.30pm in the Market Place, Castle Donington. The event starts with a lantern procession, led by Santa and his reindeer, from St Edward’s churchyard, along Borough Street to the Market Place. The village Christmas lights will then be switchedon by a special guest star. There will be snow machines, a chance to have your photo taken with the reindeer, Frozen themed characters and free children’s rides. Many of the shops and businesses will also be open allowing you to pick up some Christmas gifts, or to sample some festive food.

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.

Sunday 4th December Kegworth Christmas Market

This wonderful festive annual event returns from 12noon at Market Place, Kegworth, DE74 2EE. Courtesy of West Bridgeford High School Concert Band there will be live music throughout the event. Enjoy hot food and drinks including mulled wine, whilst you browse the stalls for Christmas shopping. Santa will arrive at 2.15pm and make his way to his grotto at the rear of Oaklands. At 4.45pm see the Christmas Tree lighting and when the market closes at 5pm head over to St Andrew’s Church for the Christingle.

Thursday 8th to Saturday

10th December

Peter Pan & The Revenge of Captain Hook

Based on J M Barry’s classic story, this pantomime, revisits a classic tale with a few more twist and turns and crashes into trees. Kegworth Players Youth Arts will be performing at 7.30pm on Thursday and Friday with an additional matinee performance at 2.30pm on Saturday. All held at Kegworth Village Hall, Nottingham Road, Kegworth. Tickets cost £7.50 for children and £13 for adults. See their Facebook page for info - www.facebook. com/kpyoutharts

Friday 9th December

Diseworth Christmas Market & Light Trail Friends of Diseworth School will be hosting a Christmas market between 4pm and 7pm at Diseworth Village Hall, Hall Gate, DE74 2QJ. Shop from a variety of festive stalls whilst enjoying refreshments. There will also be a raffle running with fabulous prizes. Follow the Christmas light trail around the village. Trail maps cost £1. Entry costs £1 for adults and kids go free.

Saturday 10th December Festive Fun

Head along to the Cathedral Quarter in Derby from 11am to 4pm enjoy some festive entertainment whilst you shop. There will be live music at the waterfall in the Market Place and you can even have your photo taken in the giant snowglobe. From 5th December the ice rink also returns. Adults and children of all abilities can enjoy whizzing around on the ice in hourly sessions from just £7. Book your slot online at www.derbylive.co.uk/whatson/cathedral-quarter-ice-rink-2022/

Thursday 15th & Saturday 17th December

A Feast of Christmas Music

Melbourne Operatic Society will once again be performing their Christmas concerts with a variety of Christmas favourites, readings and the opportunity for a jolly singalong. Refreshments will also be provided. The Society will be at Melbourne Assembly Rooms on 15th December and Castle Donington Community Hub on 17th December. Tickets cost £10 and are available online at http://melbourneoperaticsociety.com/, by calling the box office on 07518 560 162 or by emailing gilliehallam@googlemail.com. Under 16s go free. A perfect evening to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Friday 16th December Christmas Festival Concert

Derby Concert Band will be performing their traditional Christmas Concert at 7.30pm at Derby Cathedral , Iron Gate, Derby. This is

their annual seasonal concert featuring special guests Derventio Choir, complete with a variety of festive treats and seasonal favourites along with plenty of carols to sing along to. Tickets cost £10 and are available at www.ticketsource. co.uk/derby-concert-band (previous Christmas concerts have sold out, so it is recommended that you buy tickets early).

Saturday

17th December

Santa’s Grotto From 10am to 1pm Santa will be in his grotto at The Community Hub, Bondgate, Castle Donington, DE74 2NR. Children can visit the big man himself and let him know what they would like for Christmas. £3 per child. To guarantee your spot email bookings@ cdpc.org.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.castledoningtonlife. 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

Community Board

Letters to Santa Castle Donington Parish Council will be running their Letters to Santa from Thursday 1st December through to Thursday 22nd December. Local children are encouraged to drop their letters (with their name and address on the back) into the Christmas Post Box at the Community Hub, Bondgate, Castle Donington, DE74 2NR and await their reply from Santa himself.

Christmas Coffee Morning

Fibro Active is a Long Eaton based support group for people with Fibromyalgia (FM) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and their carers. Between 11am and 1pm on Tuesday 6th December they will be holding a Christmas coffee morning at Petersham Community Hall, Grasmere Road, Long Eaton, NG10 4DZ. There will be a tombola, a raffle, crafts as well as cake and refreshments. Entry is free.

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. Please contact Clare on 07591 952 027 or email clare@ hospicehope.org.uk for more information and details of where to drop off items locally.

Festive Falcon

Falcon Support Services is a charity primarily aimed at supporting people who are facing being homeless or in a precarious position of temporary accommodation. Their Festive Falcon campaign aims to raise £20k to provide emergency accommodation and a warm, safe environment, to enjoy a hot meal and some festive cheer. Throughout December, they are

planning a whole host of fun events, selling their uniquely designed Christmas jumpers and holding an exciting Christmas Craft Fair where children can meet Santa for just £2. To help feed and house a person over Christmas, please text 10FESTIVEFALCON to 70085 or visit www.falconsupportservices.org.uk

Loughborough Christmas Concert

What better way to spend a December evening than with family and friends listening to some Christmas classics? Rainbows Hospice will be hosting a fantastic festive event from 7pm to 9pm on Wednesday 7th December at Emmanuel Church, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. Enjoy performances from local choirs and musicians, sing-a-long to your favourite Christmas songs and indulge in some festive refreshments. Tickets £6, under 3’s free. Every ticket sold will help to create magical memories at Rainbows. See www.rainbows.co.uk/fundraise/events/

A Light for a Loved One Treetops Hospice provide nursing care and emotional support for adults and their families across Derbyshire and Nottingham. Every year, they have over 500 lights shining on the trees in their hospice & online to celebrate the lives of those who are no longer with us and raise much needed funds for local end-of-life care. You and your family don’t need to have received care from the hospice to be able to remember a loved one in this way. Go to their website to select a light for their virtual tree and you can add a personalised message and a photo of your loved one. You can also share your light with friends and family. The lights will be visible on the virtual tree from Sunday 4th December until twelfth night. Go to www.treetopshospice.org.uk for more information.

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 We’d love to hear from you.

Festive safety

Christmas is a time of fun and family gatherings; we decorate our homes with wreaths, candles, and dazzling lights to get into the Christmas spirit. While they all add to the excitement and joy of the holiday season, don’t forget that they may also be a fire hazard. During December the average number of incidents more than doubles.

Follow these top tips to keep your Christmas jolly and safe:

• Unplug Christmas lights when you’re going to bed or leaving the house.

• Check lights conform to a safety standard, e.g. British Standard 60598

• Don’t overload sockets with too many lights.

• If you are having a fresh tree this year, it should be kept thoroughly watered.

• Don’t block exits with Christmas trees, presents etc.

• Don’t Drink and Drive – get those taxis booked for any Christmas nights out.

• Never cook after drinking – you can easily become distracted.

• Never leave cooking unattended - be wary of

being distracted due to a houseful of guests.

• Turn off all appliances when you have finished cooking.

• Keep candles away from decorations, Christmas trees, cards, wrapping paper, curtains and soft furnishings.

We have our elf on the shelf campaign running throughout December on our social media channels for kids and adults to enjoy and follow. Finally, on behalf of everyone at Castle Donington Fire Station, I would like to wish you all a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

E-mail: daniel.wakefield leics-fire.gov.uk Telephone: 01162105518 Facebook: @LFRSCastle18 Instagram: @LFRSCastle18 Twitter: @LFRSCastle18

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

Making ends meet this Christmas

For many, Christmas is a time for celebration; a chance to bring together family and friends, share lots of gifts and eat too much food. Yet, for others, it can be a stressful time. Against the backdrop of soaring inflation, this cost-of-living Christmas could push many households towards the breadline, as the pressure to buy presents and meet up with friends and family mounts up. This is especially the case for parents, who may feel a responsibility to splash out so they can keep the festive magic alive for their children.

Due to this pressure, some households may take drastic measures to make ends meet. For example, over half of people in the UK will consider taking out extra credit to cover the cost of Christmas, according to KIS Finance, often applying for expensive payday loans to make it through to January. In fact, the Centre for Social Justice believes over 1 million people in England could be borrowing from illegal money lenders or ‘loan sharks’. This can have damaging long-term impacts on people’s finances, forcing them to start the year in significant debt.

This December, we’re encouraging people to decide what is really essential versus what is a luxury, and to look at new ways to try and save money. For those wanting to put cash aside for a rainy day, Derbyshire Community Bank,

formerly the Credit Union, is a great option. This not-for-profit financial co-operative is owned and controlled by members, and enables you to access generous, reliable savings accounts, as well as loans at lower costs than some forms of borrowing.

If you are worried about putting meals on the table, there are food banks recommended by South Derbyshire CVS who can provide nutritious options for you and your family. Citizens Advice Mid Mercia can offer guidance on spending sustainably, avoiding debt and saving energy. South Derbyshire District Council have advisory services on everything from accessing energy vouchers and rebates to signing on to Universal Credit. Whatever you’re going through, there is help available.

We at Rural Action Derbyshire also offer several avenues of support. For the 67,000 living off the mains gas grid in Derbyshire, we can negotiate lower heating oil prices through our Community Oil Buying Scheme. We can also signpost you to specialist services if you are in need of additional aid this winter, with links to projects that cover fuel, food and travel.

RAD offers online advice too, with posts on everything from eating well on a budget to protecting your mental health over the coming months. For full information, visit our website ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk

If you are struggling, please reach out for support. There is help available to make sure everyone can have an enjoyable, affordable Christmas.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone on behalf of the Lockington-Hemington Parish Council

Parish Christmas Tree Lights switch on

The Christmas Tree lights will be switched on at 6.30pm on Friday 9th December at Hemington War Memorial.

2022 Remembrance Service

In addition to the annual service held on Sunday 13th November at the Hemington War Memorial, the parish was visited as part of the University of Leicester Poppy Pilgrimage campaign earlier in the month. This visit was one of nearly 100 around the county to attend the memorials in Leicestershire.

Village Improvements

A formal order is soon to be made for new play equipment for Lockington Play area. We await actual installation dates. Funding applications for Hemington play area will now become a priority.

New plants have been placed within the planters at the signage on entering the villages. 5,000 bulbs have been planted around the verges supported by the NWLDC Green Shoots initiative.

The Hemington War Memorial has been tidied and re-planted where needed, along with the addition of large poppies here and at the Village Hall during November.

Sports Pavilion

Work has re-commenced on site with delivery of timber and panels. Unfortunately, the theft of a generator and timber from the site has added a delay in the plans. Full completion is scheduled to be ahead of the 2023/2024 football season.

Planning

The first consolidated Neighbourhood Plan draft has been completed. An open event was held at Lockington Village Hall on Saturday 26th November to share the content and proposed policies. Many thanks to all who attended and supported the event. All comments and suggestions are being assessed for inclusion in the Plan ahead of submittal to NWLDC.

Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Jewellery & Toys

Ashby Bears 18

The Olive branch Toy Shop 5

Childcare, Clubs, Schools & Tuition Titchy Town & Hero Town 47 Chiropodists

Ashby Chiropody & Podiatrists Clinic 18

Cleaning, Ironing & Laundry Services

Chellaston Carpet Cleaners 43

Diamond Oven Cleaning 12 Dental Services

Beautiful Dentures 43

Estate Agents & Housing

Cameron Homes 16

Martin & Co 48

Events & Attractions

Christmas Cheer 5

Christmas Tree Festival 8 Food & Drink

The Honest Wine Company Ltd 31

Garden Design & Maintenance

Arctic Cabins Ltd 27

Charnwood Tree Services 28

Donington Nurseries 11

E D Paving 41

Swarkestone Nursery 19

The Garden Warehouse 2

Home & Interiors

Birch Bedrooms Ltd 46

Derby Bed Centre 9

Gliderobes Ltd 37

Golden Kite Trading 41

Hambleton Interiors 15 IT Services

Code & Evolve Ltd 12

Kitchen & Bathroom

Dream Doors Derby 28

Elite Spray Tech ............................................... 13

Holme Tree 35 Locksmiths

Hazlewood Locksmiths 36 Misc / Notices

Straw Dog Records 36

Motoring

Allen’s Autocare 17

Auto Line MOT Centre 29

Velocity Car Detailing 23

Pet Services

Annie the Dog Trainer ................................. 36

Dovecote Veterinary Hospital 31 Places of Worship

St Edward’s Church 3 & 17

Plumbing, Heating & Gas Services

Gas Assist Heating and Plumbing 41 Pubs, Restaurants & Takeaways

Donington Fish Bar 24 & 25

The Priest House 7 Slimming Services

Slimming World 8 Solicitors & Will Writers

Fishers Solicitors 39

LevLaw Ltd 43 Windows & Doors

Capital Windows Derby Ltd 42

Castle Donington UPVC 12

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