Ibstock Life December 2022

JOY BLISS HOME

Discover your perfect home at HIGHWOODS GREEN, BREEDON ON THE HILL

The peaceful village of Breedon on the Hill offers the ideal rural location for those looking to be a part of something special.

Each individual home has been designed to take advantage of the green space, enticing you outside. Inside, you’ll find spacious light filled homes with multi-function spaces to meet the ever-changing needs of life.

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highwoodsgreen@cameronhomes.co.uk

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camerongalliers.co.uk

Editor Vanessa Preece 01530 417739

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Welcome to our bumper Christmas issue and congratulations to Scott Cooper, the winner of our December front cover competition with his image of St John the Baptist Church in Heather.

Within this month’s magazine we hope you’ll find everything you need to celebrate the festive season to the full locally. On pages 30 and 31 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.

Ibstock 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, Ibstock 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.

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! Vanessa

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

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.

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.

Ibstock Church Services

Ibstock Methodist Church

Sunday 18th December 6pm Carol Service Christmas Eve 6pm Christmas Eve service

Holy Rood Church, Packington

Sunday 4th December 4pm Christingle Service

Sunday 11th December 10am Toy Service

Sunday 18th December 6pm Carol Service Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion

Holy Trinity Church, Normanton-le-Heath

Sunday 4th December 10am Advent Lights Sunday 18th December 10am Carol Service Christmas Day 10am Family Communion

St Laurence Church, Measham

Sunday 4th December 10am Toy Service Sunday 18th December 3pm Carol Service Christmas Eve 4pm Christingle

St John the Baptist Church, Heather Sunday 4th December 4pm Christingle Service Sunday 18th December 6.30pm Service of Lessons & Carols followed by mince pies & mulled wine Christmas Eve 2pm Carols Around the Crib Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Holy Communion Christmas Day 10am Family Worship

St Denys Church, Ibstock

Sunday 11th December 6.30pm Service of Lessons & Carols followed by mince pies & mulled wine

Sunday 18th December 11am Nativity Service

Christmas Eve 4pm Carols Around the Crib Christmas Day 10am Family Worship with Holy Communion

Christmas Tree Festival

Running from Thursday 8th December until Sunday 11th December Refreshments, tombola and raffle all available on the Saturday Thursday to Saturday 10am - 5pm • Sunday 12noon - 4pm

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

Mobile collections are planned for four evenings. The four dates we have planned for mobile collections are:

Tuesday 29th November

Hugglescote (Frearson Road Estate & Blackham Road Estate) 6pm - 8pm

Wednesday 7th December

Ibstock (Parkdale & St Denys’ Way Estate and Usbourne Way Estate) 6pm - 8pm

Wednesday 14th December

Coalville (Greenhill between Cropston Drive & Bradgate Drive) 6pm - 8pm

Thursday 15th December

Newton Burgoland (based in village centre) 5pm – 7pm

The finalised routes and timings, as well as details of several static collections, will be available on our Facebook page -www.facebook.com/CoalvilleRotary

Across: 1 Faction (4) 5 Boyfriend (4) 7 Appearance of young (9) 9 Concerned (4)

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)

Additional (5)

Metropolitan (5)

Customary (5)

Officially inform (6)

Very emotional (6)

Narrow ledge (4)

Thick, hooked process (4)

Chinese Muslims (3)

Large quantity (9)

Understand previous event after (9)

Round bodied fowl (6) 24 Strike (4) 25 Culmination (4) 27 Partnership (3) 28 Coarse hair (4) 29 Sharp sudden pain (4) Place the numbers 1 to 9 in the squares so that the number in each circle is equal to the sum of the numbers in the four surrounding squares. You must also make sure that each colour total is correct.

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

Local Events

of festive entertainment for the whole family, with live music and children’s rides as well as a great selection of hot food stalls to choose from including woodfired pizzas, Korean fried chicken and more. 10.30am to 5pm. The market will also be open on Sunday 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Friday 2nd December

Carols by Candlelight

Enjoy an evening of carols and readings, accompanied by St Helen’s Church Choir to help get you into the Christmas mood. 7pm at Staunton Harold Church, Staunton Harold Estate, LE65 1RW. Entry is free with donations to Hospice Hope.

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 & Saturday 10th December

Sleeping Beauty Adult Pantomime

Brought to you by the award-winning team behind last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk, this outrageous laugh-a-minute performance sees the cast throw away their scripts and tell the story of a princess’ 18th birthday gone-wrong. With a special cocktail menu at the bar and prizes available for the lucky individuals who complete Dame Dolly’s challenges on the night, you’re guaranteed a naughty night of non-stop fairy tale fun and filth. Tickets £10.50 to £14.50. Book online at https://centurytheatre.co.uk/whats-on/

Saturday

3rd and Sunday 4th December

Ashby Food Gusto Christmas Fair

Taste the quality at the Ashby Food Gusto Christmas Fair, made up of some of the finest quality food and drink producers from across the region. Alongside the Christmas celebrations organised by Ashby Town Council, the fair is perfect for getting those final gifts for Christmas and enjoying some delicious food at the same time. There will be a range

Sunday 4th December

Crafting Christmas

Come along to this fun and engaging Christmas craft morning at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney, CV13 0AD and make your own seasonal wire decorations. Your handmade creations will be perfect to hang from your tree this festive season. £8 per person, prebooking essential. You can do this online at: www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk/events/craftingchristmas.

Friday 9th December

A Walk through Winter

Join Roots Community Singers for a wonderful celebration of the winter season at 7.30pm at Venture Theatre, Ashby. 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 are available from Sue by calling 07981 356 388 or emailing suek@bushwellfarm.co.uk

Recreation Ground, Whitwick, LE67 5EU. Tickets cost £6 per child and are available on the door or in advance. This includes visiting Santa in his grotto for a present and a ride on the train. Refreshments will also be available. Call 07929 773 511 or email info@nwlsme.club

Saturday 17th to Tuesday 20th December Magical Santa Show

Sunday 11th December Christmas at the Manor

Discover how Christmas was celebrated in times gone by. The 1620s House & Garden in Donington le Heath will be beautifully dressed in Jacobean style decor. See how preparations were made to celebrate the full twelve days of Christmas by the Digby Family. Join in with festive carols and a mummers play, talk to costumed volunteers about food, feasting, and Christmas customs. What’s more, there’ll be festive crafts in the barn and a children’s trail to enjoy. Normal Admission plus £2. See https://1620shouse.org.uk/events/christmas-atthe-manor-3/

Sunday 11th & Sunday 18th December

Santa Specials

Hermitage Miniature Railways will be running train rides from 11am to 3pm at the Hermitage

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.ibstocklife.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

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

The Palace Community Centre is available to hire for regular events and commercial hire, as well as private parties and celebrations. The Palace has a fully licensed bar, kitchen facilities, large free car park opposite venue, good disability access and facilities, full PA and lighting system, large screen and wi-fi, making it an ideal venue for numerous types of events.

Regular events at e Palace

Monday

• Shimmi ‘N’ Shake with Nunzia 9.30am to 10.30am

Contact Nunzia Proudman on 01530 835 974

• FITSTEPS – 11am to 12 noon Contact Rose on 07562 331 041 or email rosemarydebney@gmail.com

• Pilates – 1.30pm to 2.30pm Contact Marie-Claire on 07970 151 324 or mc@wyldlife.co.uk

• Seated Pilates – 3pm to 4pm Contact Marie-Claire on 07970 151 324 or mc@wyldlife.co.uk

• Pilates – 6.15pm to 7.15pm & 7.45pm to 8.45pm Contact Michelle on 07887 678 367

Tuesday

• Bubbles Playgroup – 10.30am to 12 Noon Term Time Only Booking required via www.facebook.com/ bubblesibstock

• Childrens Karate – 4pm to 5pm

Contact Paul Barnett on 07719 636 374

• Yoga – 6.45pm to 7.45pm Contact Jonathan on 07776 304766

• Tai Chi – 8pm to 9.30pm. Contact Doug on 07969 480 684

Wednesday

• 50+ Fitness Pilates – 9.30am to 10.30am Contact Marie-Claire on 07970 151 324 or

mc@wyldlife.co.uk

• Seated Exercise to Music – 11am – 12 noon

Contact Ian on 07508 115080

• Ibstock and Heather Churches Welcome Time – 2pm – 4pm (3rd Weds every month) Contact Revd Dr Andy Hartropp on 01530 262 590

• FITSTEPS – 6.15pm to 7.15pm Contact Rose on 07562 331 041 or rosemarydebney@gmail.com

• Palace Players – 7.30pm – 10.00pm

Contact the Palace on 01530 262 400

Thursday

• Outlook Group (a social group for senior citizens) - 10.30am to 12.30pm Contact Sue on 01530 834 239

• ‘Weightwatchers’ class – 5.45pm to 6.45pm Contact Emily Colver on 07708 975 571 or emily.colver@ww.com

• Tai Chi – 7.30pm – 8.30pm Contact Doug Gerrard on 07969 480684

Friday

• Tai Chi – 10am – 11am Contact Michael Cashmore 07714 215 216.

• Childrens Dance Classes - Beginners Ballet 4pm to 4.45pm; Beginners Tap 4.45pm to 5.30pm; Musical Theatre 5.30pm to 6.15pm Contact Miss Jessica of Rochelle School Of Dance on 01455 636 514 or 07949 121 442 or office@rochelle-dance.com

What’s on in December

Saturday 3rd December Leicestershire Co-op Brass Band

A relaxed evening of music to enjoy to get you into the Christmas spirit. 50 years of making music. Raffle and refreshments. Tickets £9, children free. Doors open 7pm, performance from 7.30pm Contact 07935 263 988.

Wednesday 7th December Palace Wine Club

Join a group of likeminded people who enjoy wine and learning more about it. Contact Juliette on 07806 711 939 for more details. 7pm until 9pm in the Centenary Room.

Saturday 10th December Christmas Fun Activity Day Come and visit Santa in his enchanted Grotto and have fun making your own Reindeer

wine, tea, coffee and mince pies. Book to see Santa online, call our box office or pay the door elf on the day.

Coming up:

Saturday 28th January

Live and Local event ‘Hoagy!’ by the Chris Ingham Trio

The show is a joyful salute to the wry, wise and beautiful music of Hoagy. Tickets £12, over 65s £10, 16 years and under £7. Doors and bar open 7pm, performance from 7.30pm.

Saturday 4th & 11th Sunday 5th & 12th February 2023 Panto - Beauty and the Beast

A reworking of the classic tale of the cursed prince Adam and how his love for Beauty saves the day. Tickets £5 before the strike of midnight on Christmas Eve. As of Christmas day, over 16’s will be £7.50 and 16/Under is still £5.

For tickets call the box office on 01530 262 400 or see www.thepalaceibstock.co.uk A

Tickets to see Santa/Activities/Storyteller £5 per child (including gift). Free entry to the craft and Christmas gift stalls, where there will be mulled

very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our Volunteers and Patrons Thank you for your support!

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

Ibstock Surgery

The 12 practices In North West Leicestershire are working in collaboration as a Primary Care Network (PCN). This allows us to work differently and provide services jointly or at scale.

From 1st October 2022 the PCN has been providing Enhanced Access appointments and these are available to patients between 6.30pm and 8.30pm Monday to Friday and between 9am and 5pm on Saturday. These appointments are being delivered from two hub locations and rotate between Castle Medical Group in Ashby and Long Lane Surgery in Coalville.

Initially, we have been offering covid vaccinations from the hubs and are now expanding this to include GP appointments, smears, dressings, long term condition reviews, and other vaccinations. We will add other services as required to meet the needs of our patient populations.

Appointments are available to book and cancel through the practice. When the practice is closed, please call 01530 566 550. If we are unable to

answer your call, please leave a message or email llrib-llr.nwlpcn@nhs.net. We will also be making online booking available soon, details will be added to the practice website once they have gone live.

Please note that we will also be continuing to deliver our early morning pre booked appointments Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 8am.

We would like to wish all our patients a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We hope you all enjoy the festive season whatever you are doing and would like to thank you all for your support during the year.

a superior domiciliary care service to individuals across Leicestershire. Care at Home is synonymous with quality and professionalism in the provision of care services. Our team at Care at Home are devoted in providing the highest quality, person centred care for Adults and older people in the comfort of their own homes, we offer a wide range of one-to-one services tailored to the needs of the individual service user 24/7.

Care at home Midlands is dedicated to the provision of quality care in the community, through professional and trained carers and by tailoring the needs of the Service User whilst respecting and preserving their dignity, independence and privacy.

Ibstock

Christmas Food Bank Appeal

Once again Ibstock Community College students, staff and families will be collecting for our annual Christmas Food Bank appeal. Supporting each other and our local community is a key part of our RESPECT standards. We collect food donations from students, parents and staff from the start of December. From this we make food parcels for some of our most in need students and deliver them to their homes. The rest of the donations received are delivered to Coalville foodbank just before we finish for Christmas.

The Foodbank needs your support not just at Christmas but all year around. Below are some of the food items they are currently in urgent need of:

• Tinned potatoes

• Tinned rice pudding

• Instant coffee

• Long life juice

• Tinned sponge puddings

• Instant mash

Donations can be left at Tesco Extra Ashby, Thringstone, Whitwick or Hugglescote Co-op, Marlborough Square, or at the Coalville Foodbank itself on Margaret Street, Coalville, LE67 3LY. You can also show your support by donating time as a volunteer or by signing up as a regular donor with a standing order. For full details see https:// coalville.foodbank.org.uk/

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

Community Board

Christmas Tree Festival

St Denys Church in Ibstock will be holding their annual Christmas Tree Festival on Thursday 8th, Friday 9th, Saturday 10th December from 10am to 5pm and on Sunday 11th December from 12noon to 4pm. The theme this year will be ‘Special Occasions and Celebration Days’ and will be a spectacular display of decorated Christmas Trees created by individuals, local businesses and organisations. If you’d like to get involved, please call Trudy on 01530 451 804.

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.

Local Guided Walk

Between 12noon and 2pm on Sunday 18th December and the third Sunday of each month join Roger Partridge for a guided walk around Sence Valley. Known locally as ‘the swan man’; Roger will share his knowledge of the area and it’s wildlife. No charge and no need to book. Open to everybody, all abilities. Meet at 12noon at the bottom car park.

Christmas Activity Morning

Ibstock Community Library will be hosting a festive morning of crafts for local children from 10am to 12noon. There will also be face painting, refreshments and a tombola. Entry is free. You can find Ibstock Community Library up the alley from the traffic lights on Melbourne Road by

Ibstock Junior School, Ibstock. LE67 6NP. Email ibstocklibrary@email.com or call 07423 296 503 for more details if needed.

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

Christmas Glass Workshop

Between 10am and 12 noon on Saturday 3rd December a Christmas Glass Workshop will be held at the Village Hall, St John Cole Crescent, Markfield, LE67 9AE. Make your own Christmas glass ornament while helping the local Scouts raise funds for a trip to Nepal in 2023. All items will be professionally fired. Tickets cost £14 with a complimentary tea/coffee. Contact Lisa for tickets on 07900 447 795 or email ljsewell22@ gmail.com

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 to 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.

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.

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Ashby Bears 14 Builders & Building Supplies

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Toni’s Ironing Angels .................................... 43 Dental Services

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LevLaw Ltd 24

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Sunnyside Adventure 9 Taxi Services

Direct Transfer Airport Specialists 21 Windows & Doors Progress Windows 29 Window Mate 55

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.

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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.