Grilled Halloumi & Pepper Bruschetta
toasted bruschetta piled with charred peppers, grilled halloumi & a balsamic reduction
Prawn Salad & Chorizo Flatbread with asparagus, spicy tomato & garlic sauce, rocket & chilli oil
Chicken Chasseur with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted shallots & tarragon
Mini Shepards Pie & Lamb Fillet with ratatouille, seasonal vegetables & red wine jus
Fillet Steak & Blue Cheese Sauce served with vine tomatoes, sautéed wild mushrooms, rosemary & garlic roasted new potatoes & creamy Colston Basset Stilton sauce (£8.00 supplement)
Pan Seared Salmon Fillet & Creamed Leeks with a selection of vegetables and a lemon & dill butter
Sweet Potato, Caramelised Onion & Goats Cheese Pie with creamy mashed potatoes & a selection of vegetables
Smoked Chicken & Orange Salad smoked chicken breast & orange salad with avocado, pomegranate, crumbed feta and toasted pine nuts
Oven Baked Camembert
in a puff pastry case with a sticky Þggy chutney and a selection of warm breads and crudités (to share)
Champagne & Raspberry (to share)
Strawberry & White Chocolate Eton Mess with meringue pieces, white chocolate sauce and fresh strawberries
Baked Lemon & Raspberry Cheese Cake with mascarpone & blueberry liqueur sauce
Sticky Toffee Pudding with vanilla ice cream or crème anglaise
Assiette of Taster Puddings (to share)
A Selection of Signature Farm Shop Cheeses and Artisan Crackers (£4.00 supplement)
Editor Vanessa Preece 01530 417739
Email enquiries
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Part of Ashby Life Ltd
Rockleigh House 37 Burton Road Ashby de la Zouch LE65 2LF
Welcome to February’s issue, which is packed with practical advice.
We have articles on local gift ideas for Valentine’s Day, top tips on choosing a vet, two delicious seasonal recipes and this month’s essential gardening jobs from Francesca Sinclair.
We’ve also got a whole host of community news. We bring you the latest updates from the National Forest, Ibstock Surgery and more.
As always, we also have a round up of events happening in and around the area this month and a fantastic competition to win an afternoon of family fun for four at Sunnyside Adventure.
Until next time,
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.
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.
We treat a number of patients who have problems with their Achilles tendon. It is a band of strong fibres connecting the muscles at the back of the calf, onto the heel bone. The calf compromises of two muscles the Gastrocnemius and the Soleus.
During contraction of the calf, tension is placed through the Achilles tendon. Your tendons are designed to withstand high force and repetitive loading, however on occasions where the load applied is too high, the tendon can sustain micro tears. If high loads are continually applied, it prevents the tendon from repairing and damage gradually worsens; resulting in an Achilles tendinopathy. Symptoms include pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle and heel, which is usually worse first thing in the morning.
Anyone can have a tendinopathy, but people who make the same motions over and over in their jobs, sports or daily activities are at higher risk. The condition is common among runners, hill walkers, and sports involving jumping. You may be predisposed if you are training excessively with a quick increase in demand, are overweight or have over-pronated (flat) feet.
A thorough Physiotherapy examination is usually sufficient to diagnose an Achilles tendinopathy. Treatments such as massage, stretches, joint mobilisations and ultrasound can help improve
flexibility, pain and function. If required, orthotics can also be provided to correct foot posture or relieve pain.
New research shows a strengthening exercise programme should be commenced to load the tendon and is vital to remould tendon scar tissue and prevent reoccurrence. Your physiotherapist can guide you on the grading of exercise programmes.
Most patients with this condition heal well with physiotherapy, however it can take 4 to 6 months. In some cases, these tendon injuries can turn chronic when someone continues activity despite nagging pain. At ProPhysio we have had great results using our extra corporeal shockwave therapy machine which accelerates the healing process in chronic tendons, this has a success rate of 77% in national results.
For more information contact ProPhysio on 01530 588 557 info@prophysiomidlands.co.uk www.prophysiomidlands.co.uk
Sunnyside Garden Centre has been established on Leicester Road in Ibstock for many years but did you know that in 2022 they launched the brand new Sunnyside Adventure with the largest indoor adventure play frame in Leicestershire?
Their five floor play frame has more than 100 features to explore including a four lane Astra slide, a spiral slide, drop slide, blaster cannons, ball showers, cargo nets, tunnels and even a selfcontained football pitch. They also have separate areas for babies and toddlers.
They are open from 9am to 6pm daily with three sessions running from 9am to 11.45am, 12noon to 2.45pm and 3pm to 5.45pm.
The Adventure Cafe sells freshly made food and drinks for everyone to enjoy including an all day breakfast menu, jacket potatoes, paninis, hot dogs, stone baked pizza and kids snack boxes. All food is cooked fresh and to order.
Sunnyside Adventure is a great place to play, eat and relax. They also have party packages available to help you celebrate their big day with friends. You can find out more about Sunnyside Adventure and book a session online at www.sunnysideadventure.co.uk
One lucky person could WIN a family voucher for two adults and two children for one play session plus food and drinks up to the value of £40. To be in with a chance of winning simply email competition@lifemagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘WIN with Sunnyside Adventure’ and let us know your name, address and contact telephone number. Be quick as you only have until midnight on Friday 24th February to enter. See www.ibstocklife.co.uk for full terms and conditions.
The winner will be entitled to one family voucher for two adults and two children for one Sunnyside Aventure play session and food and drink in the café up to the value of £40. The prize must be redeemed within six months of the closing date of 24th February 2023. 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.
When planning that special gift for your loved one this Valentine’s Day remember to shop local and support one of the many small businesses in our area. Here’s just a small selection of what’s on offer:
Cattows Farm are offering a Chocolate Afternoon Tea for Valentine’s Day and it all sounds utterly delicious. Start the experience with a savoury sandwich selection and then dive straight into chocolate heaven with offerings including warm double chocolate scones; banoffee brownie bites; chocolate drizzled fruit and more. Priced at £25 per head & available from 1st to 28th February. Booking essential. Go to www.cattowsfarm.co.uk or call 01530 264 200 to book.
Fred & the Sweetie Team can always be relied upon to have lots of treats in store. From their heart-themed movie boxes or delicious chocolate goodies to Amy Smith Fudge, which is locally made using traditional methods & comes in a huge array of flavours, you’re sure to find something for the sweetlover in your life. You can find them on Facebook or place an order on their website www.sweetmemorylane.com
A gift voucher for an experience at Breedon Priory Spa would be a thoughtful gift. There’s nothing quite like a visit to their Wellbeing Suite to boost your health and happiness. Gift your loved one the chance to take some much-needed time out in the thermal areas, to experience relaxing showers or to take a dip in one of the outdoor pools before enjoying quiet time in either the relaxation area, sun terrace, spa garden, or slumber room. Prices start from £75 for a Twilight Taster spa evening. See details online at breedonprioryspa.co.uk
Fancy That, located inside the Market Hall have a great selection of cut blooms and lots of gorgeous bouquets, with something to fit most budgets. They can even create something bespoke if there are flowers with a special meaning for your relationship. While red roses are a classic choice to say ‘I love you’, red tulips also symbolise true love, while their yellow counterparts mean ’there is sunshine in your smile’. Search ‘Fancy That Ashby’ on Facebook or call 01530 563563 to order.
Here in the National Forest, we’re working to create a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for everyone, by creating more natural spaces for people to connect with nature, planting woodland habitats that will help wildlife to thrive, and providing new opportunities for businesses. However, we need the support of our communities, businesses, and landowners in the Forest to continue to make this happen. That’s why we offer a range of grant schemes to help create and manage the Forest across a variety of work areas, from tree planting and habitat creation to tourism and health and wellbeing.
For landowners in the Forest, our forest creation grant schemes, can provide funding to cover, design, planning, and up to 100% of the implementation costs of the creation of new woodlands and other habitats, helping you to increase the potential of your land through better yields and new diversification opportunities, reduced flooding and soil loss, and increased nutrient recycling.
Our Freewoods grant scheme supports the creation of woodlands from as little as 0.25 hectares and woodland blocks can be as small as 0.1 hectares, making them easier to fit into a busy farm, whilst our Changing Landscapes scheme is for projects and woodland creation of 1 hectare or more. We can support environmental and biodiversity improvements through the creation and management of habitats such as meadows, wetlands, ponds, parkland, and hedges. The grant also supports paths, roading, signage, community engagement, and public access. Our Parkland scheme support projects as little as 0.25 hectares
and three trees and offers an easy way to make a difference as wood pasture is a UK and National Forest priority habitat.
Or perhaps you’re a group leader or wellbeing organisation? Our Forest Society grant aims to support the health and well-being of residents and communities within the National Forest, using local woodlands to harness the well-being benefits of spending time outdoors. This year we’re looking to award between five and seven grants of £1,000 and £5,000 with a particular interest in supporting innovative projects that connect people with nature to support their mental health resilience, and those focusing on young people aged 11-18. The deadline for applications for this grant is Monday, 13th February 2023.
Last year we introduced our Sustainable Tourism Grant to support businesses with their continued recovery from the pandemic, and to encourage them to invest wisely now to create a greener future for the sector. The second round of grants will reopen this month, so keep an eye on our website for further updates on this.
If you’re a landowner, organisation, or community group in the National Forest and would like to support our work, you can find out more about our grant schemes and check if you’re eligible for funding by visiting our website or emailing grants@nationalforest.org
While our visits to the vet may be infrequent, it’s still important to want to feel as if the specialist you choose is as invested in your pet’s welfare as you are. So with that in mind, here are a selection of things to consider when it comes to choosing one who understands both your needs and those of your little buddy.
Whether your passion is a dog, cat, budgerigar or Burmese python, pet owners are a social community and rarely shy away from sharing opinions, both positive and negative.
That means the pet parents among us will always be the best source for reviews, so rather than just believe the hype of some website marketing, jump on social media and see who is well rated locally.
Pet healthcare is often pricey, and cost is the biggest factor we attach to our selecting of a vet. That means clarity is key when it comes to arranging healthcare for your dependent, so check detail and ensure the extent of potential fees. And of course, while it’s always wise to have pet insurance, ensure your vet is willing to co-operate with your policy holder to provide a seamless, stress-free service.
The best care often means feeling comfortable and happy from the minute you walk in the door, so visit your prospective surgery and make sure it suits you and your pet.
Look out as well for a few tell-tale signs of the establishment’s commitment to the animals it treats. Are there clean bowls of water left out?
Perhaps you can spot blankets and toys for anxious animals? Are posters and information messages up to date? If all these boxes are ticked, it offers good signs your pet will be in good hands.
It follows that a busy veterinary practice is generally a good sign that they offer decent care for reasonable prices. Therefore, as long they aren’t so oversubscribed that you can’t get an appointment, don’t be put off by a little paw traffic.
We all know that medical emergencies rarely fit a sociable timetable, and is vital to know that you can get your pet the help they need any time, day or night. This not only means choosing a practice you can get to easily, but also one that offers emergency care without you having to venture too far afield.
Can you help a puppy to become an amazing assistance dog, to transform the life of someone with disabilities?
We are looking for dedicated people with the time and energy to care, socialise and give basic training to one of our future assistance dogs.
This is a rewarding voluntary role, caring for a puppy from 8 weeks to between 14-18 months. You will learn new skills, make new friends, and be supported every step of the way.
You will receive a puppy starter pack, plus all the puppy’s food and vet bills will be covered.
One of the most rewarding things you could ever do for yourself, for the puppy, and for a person with disabilities, join us as a Puppy Parent volunteer.
On Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th February, between 10am and 3pm each day, the garden at The Dower House, in Melbourne will be open to the public in aid of the National Garden Scheme. The garden has a breath-taking view facing south over Melbourne Pool, viewed from a balustraded terrace running the length of the house. Paths and steps descend either side of this terrace down a huge bank covered in roses and shrubs to the lower lawn.
A rose tunnel divides the garden which has numerous paths leading to different areas, each providing a variety of planting opportunities: a bog garden, dry banks, the dappled shade of a glade, an orchard and shrubbery, a small rockery and a little woodland with many island beds. There are many seats around the garden where visitors may pause to take in the views.
The February opening will show a garden full of snowdrops, aconites, winter clematis,
winter honeysuckle, daphnes, witch hazels, irises, crocus, cyclamen and many other winter flowering plants. There will be tea, coffee and cake and we will hopefully have a roaring fire in the cottage to warm hands and feet before or after braving the garden. Admission will be £5 per adult. See findagarden.ngs.org.uk/ garden/20945/the-dower-house.
The National Garden Scheme gives all the money raised at garden openings across the country during the year to various charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Hospice UK, Marie Curie, The Carers Trust, Parkinson’s UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute. Last year £3.11 million was raised nationwide.
Having met her now husband, John Torode, on the 2010 series of Celebrity MasterChef – on which he was a judge and she a contestant – Lisa Faulkner knows full well that food is the language of love. So, what better way to woo your beloved on Valentine’s Day than with these stunning choux hearts?
Method
1 Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Put the butter and water in a medium saucepan, add the salt and sugar, and bring to the boil. Ensure the butter is melted. Remove from the heat, add the sifted flour all at once and beat vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes away from the sides of the pan. Return to the heat and cook for 2 minutes until the paste is pale. Cool a little.
2 Add the beaten eggs, a little at a time, incorporating fully with a wooden spoon after
each addition. The mixture will go glossy then back to dull. Add the eggs until the mixture is shiny again and it just drops off the wooden spoon. Cool the mixture for about 10 minutes. Put in a piping bag and pipe heart shapes on to a baking sheet dampened with a little water.
3 Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes then reduce the temperature to 160°C, gas mark 3, and bake for a further 15-20 minutes until golden.
4 Pour the cream into a chilled bowl and whisk, either by hand or with a hand mixer, until stiff peaks form. This may take a few minutes.
5 When cooked, turn the hearts over and pop back into the oven for 2 minutes to dry out a little. Split each heart in half horizontally and then spoon or pipe the whipped cream on the base. Top with the other half and fill the centre with the fruit. Serve immediately.
For the choux pastry
• 90g butter
• 360ml water
• pinch salt
• pinch sugar
• 110g plain flour, sifted
• 3 whole eggs, beaten well
To serve
• 500ml double cream
• 400g mixed fresh berries
Be careful not to overwhip your cream. As soon as you have firm peaks (you should be able to hold the bowl over your head without it spilling out!) you should stop.
If berries aren’t your thing use whatever fruit you prefer… mango and passion fruit, for example.
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Our building work has slowed down considerably recently due to the challenge of continuing to provide our services and have building work at the same time. We are hoping that by the time you read this the new reception will be ready or almost ready. Once we open this area and staff and patients move in, the pace of work will pick up again as they will start working on the old reception area. This is the last big area to be finished and involves a great deal of remodelling rather than actual construction. It should therefore move fairly quickly.
Once again, we thank all our patients for their patience during our building work.
Dr Griffiths has now started her maternity leave and Dr Barrett, who many of you will know, is covering for her one day a week. We also have Dr Sharma covering for Dr Griffiths and so many of you will meet her over the coming months.
A final reminder that we still have a few flu vaccines for any patients who would still like one, just book via our Patient Services Team.
The moment a fence falls or breaks, you have to deal with third party damage, security and privacy issues, neighbours, quotes, the expense and inconvenience – all at once. Alternatively, a simple call to ColourFence can head off all your problems for the next 25 years! Virtually maintenance-free, before the Spring growing season starts, now is the best time to see our great value, colours & designs. Freephone today.
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Vomiting (6)
Peace, harmony (6)
Shaking (11)
Capsule for egg cell production (6)
Pilots (6)
(3)
Garment hung in loose folds (6)
Took (6)
Easily bent (6)
Tight fitting hat (6)
Apparent (11)
Dramatic ending (11)
Bitterly regret (3)
Tall deciduous tree (3)
Reason (6)
Establish ascendancy (6)
Fast-spinning star (6)
Colourless reactive gas (6)
Nearly (6)
Small white-fleshed fruit (6)
Becoming higher value (11)
Brought back (6)
The spring crocus is so joyous. They are hardy and perennial so they will keep coming back each year. The leaves are small and die down in late spring disappearing completely so no residual messy leaves are left. Crocus prefer conditions that are free draining rather than waterlogged and can be great for pots and rockeries as well as planting in drifts in the grass or under trees. Generally, they like to be in a sunny aspect.
There are various types of crocus. My favourites are any of the species and hybrids that naturalise well. This means that the number of flowers will multiply year on year and are such good value for money. This group of crocus tend to flower quite early, between January and March, depending on the weather. The size of flower will depend upon the exact variety but the height will be 4 - 10cm. For a white flower with an egg-yoke yellow centre choose crocus ‘Malyi’, it’s very reliable.
For a shock of orange crocus ‘Orange Monarch’ has the Award of Garden Merit (AGM). A stunningly beautiful pale lilac one is crocus ‘De Jager’. This has a light lavender petals with a violet strip in the centre, and the outer petals are very slightly tinged yellow, very beautiful indeed. If you are after a strong deep dark purple then I suggest crocus ‘Ruby Giant’. For a blast of different colours, purple, white and yellow all
within one flower, then the easy to remember ‘Tricolour’ is the one for you.
There is a group of crocus known as ‘Large Dutch Flowering’ which are reliably bigger, being 10-12cm tall and are particularly useful for pots and window boxes because they show up above the rim of the pot. These tend to flower a little later, usually in March. From this group there is a yellow variety with the AGM badge called ‘Golden Yellow’. One of the loveliest white forms of all crocus falls within this Large Dutch Flowering group and it is beautifully named Crocus ‘Joan of Arc’; its petals are just pure white. Crocus ‘Pickwick’ is another large variety and is unusual because its petals are silvery white and veined with purple.
To seek a wider and more unusual range of colours the chrysanthus varieties are definitely worth investigating. In particular the Crocus ‘Blue Pearl’ will astonish you with the bright beauty of its light blue petals and pearly blue insides set off with a yellow centre.
Happy gardening.
By local garden designer, Francesca Sinclair
For bespoke contemporary and traditional garden design www.francescasinclair.co.uk 07901 547 360
to 1290! With centuries of history and many families who have considered this beautiful house their home, it is well worth a visit… but after dark, this place has a different atmosphere. The event begins at 8pm and runs through to 1am. Tickets cost £38 and includes use of ghost hunting equipment. For adults aged 18+ only. Book online at hauntedheritage.co.uk/
Immerse yourself in the authentic ABBA experience! Abba Sensation will transport you back to the golden days of ABBA, with stunning harmonies, costumes, choreography and a sprinkling of light-hearted humour. Whatever your favourite hit, they’re all included; from Waterloo to Dancing Queen. 7.30pm at Century Theatre, Coalville. Tickets cost £16-£18. Book online at centurytheatre.co.uk/whats-on/abbasensation/ or call 01530 278 444.
Tours lasting around 1 hour will be running twice a day at 11am and 1.30pm in the house at Calke Abbey. Follow in the footsteps of the people who made Calke tick. Discover the servant’s stories and the contributions they made to this great estate. Visit spaces specifically connected to the servants, such as laundries and the kitchen and some of the spaces not seen on the normal visitor route. No booking required. Spaces available on a first come first served basis. Free event (admission fees apply).
Join the Haunted Heritage team as they explore one of the oldest houses in Leicestershire; Donington Le Heath Manor House, dating back
Richard Harris’s award-winning comedy Stepping Out is coming to Loughborough Town Hall with a top-class cast from The Festival Players. Stepping Out follows the lives of seven women and one man attempting to tap their troubles away at a weekly dancing class. Over the course of several months, we meet the group, and all of them have a story to tell. Show starts 7.30pm. Tickets cost £16. Book online at www. loughboroughtownhall.co.uk/events
Enjoy a showing of the 2021 British coming-of-age drama written and directed by Kenneth Branagh. The film stars Caitríona Balfe, Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan, Ciarán Hinds, Colin Morgan and Jude Hill and follows a young boy’s childhood in Belfast, Northern Ireland, at
the beginning of The Troubles in 1969. 7pm at Packington Memorial Hall. Film starts 7.30pm. Adults £4, children £2. Tea and coffee served from 7pm. All welcome just turn up, no need to book.
Join the Leicestershire & Rutland Ornithological Society team and learn more about the rich array of winter species and waterfowl that can be found in the various habitats of Bradgate Park. The walk will take around three hours and will involve walking over uneven and potentially weather affected ground, it will take place irrespective of weather conditions. Appropriate clothing and footwear are therefore recommended. Binoculars would also be great if you have them. Tickets cost £7.50 and car parking charges apply. Depart from Newton Linford car park. Book online at www. bradgatepark.org/Event/bird-walk
As part of Leicester Comedy Festival’s Big Weekend enjoy an evening packed with laughs at Century Theatre, Coalville from an excellent selection of acts including Ignacio Lopez - a wonderful Spanish/Welsh comedian who just made his debut on Live at the Apollo and Jonny Awsumthe ultimate feel-good comic with lots of fun, silly songs that always go down a storm and leave everyone with huge grins on their faces plus Nathan Eagle and compere Barry Dodds. Show starts 8pm. Tickets cost £12. Book online at comedy-festival.co.uk/event/funhouse-comedyclub/
The wonderful Bosworth Guides will be delivering a series of fantastic talks at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre at 1.30pm on Sundays in the next month. Discover how the archaeological finds have help shaped the story they tell about this famous historic battle. Learn how the site of this decisive battle was lost to history and rediscovered through painstaking research and archaeological survey. There will be an opportunity to handle some of the finds. Pre-booking is essential. Tickets cost £6 and can be purchased online at www.bosworthbattlefield. org.uk/events/the-archaeology-of-bosworth/
David Bowie Tribute Evening Jean Genie perform an incredible tribute to David Bowie, complete with dazzling, flamboyant costumes and stunning effects. Critically acclaimed as the UK’s top Bowie tribute; you’d be forgiven for thinking you are seeing the man himself. Doors open at 7pm and show starts at 7.45pm at Conkers Discovery Centre in Moira, DE12 6GA. Tickets cost £25. Free parking. Book online at www.visitconkers.com/event/davidbowie-tribute/ or call 01283 216 633.
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 March issue is Thursday 16th February. Life Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. For any queries, please email info@lifemagazines.co.uk
The Turn of the Screw is our next dramatic production which takes place in March. This creepy and thrilling play features several ADS actors one of whom is new to the society. Nikki Favell comes to join us fresh from panto at The Little Theatre in Leicester.
Tickets are now on sale on our website - www. ashbyventuretheatre.org. uk - and our box office will be open on Friday and Saturday mornings from Friday 3rd March.
23-25 MARCH 29-31 MARCH 1 APRIL
Music and Much More… The Sarah Spencer Transatlantic Jazz Band are coming to the theatre on Saturday 25th February. This band have not played at the jazz club before but are well worth listening to – possibly the most exciting band we have ever booked. Tickets are £15 and on sale at The Shoebox, Market Street or on our website.
Laid Back Blues!
On Saturday 4th March we are presenting an evening of blues music provided by Annie Duggan. Music starts at 8pm and tickets cost £10, available on our website.
Fascinating Takes From World War 2 Peggy Knight was an unlikely heroine of the 2nd World War who was parachuted into France to work with the Resistance. During the war, she lived in the shadows as a member of Churchill’s Special Operations Executive. This young woman was a shorthand typist in 1944 at 24 years of age, living in north London. Suddenly she found herself recruited and after just two short weeks of training was parachuted into enemy-occupied France.
All performances start at 7.30pm Doors open at 6.45pm
FULLY LICENCED BAR
Available now from TicketSource via our website: www.ashbyventuretheatre.org.uk
From 3rd March 2023, you can purchase tickets at the box office every Friday & Saturday, 10.30am - 12.30pm Venture Theatre, North Street, Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1HU
Lesley Smith, well known for her dramatic interpretations of historical characters, is presenting her portrayal of Peggy Knight at The Venture Theatre on Friday 14th April at 7.30pm. Why not come and learn more about those tense months in France and Peggy’s immense courage and patriotism as she looks back on her experiences?
Tickets cost £12 and are available on our website.
“A ghost story with a difference” “Thought provoking” “Edge-of-the-seat theatre”
Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland are offering free IT help for older people who may be using a smartphone, tablet, iPad or laptop computer for the first time. If you have never used a tablet before they can lend one to you to get started. The free drop-in sessions are being held at Coalville Library, High Street, Coalville, LE67 3EA on the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 11am – 1pm. There’s no need to book – just drop in. For further information please telephone 0116 2045117 or email digitalchampions@ageukleics.org.uk
Don’t let the worry of rising energy bills control your life. Visit the warm bank at the Marlene Reid Centre in Coalville between 6pm and 9pm on a Wednesday evening – it’s completely free. Socialise, meet other local people and stay warm this winter. It’s a chance to enjoy arts and crafts, watch the telly or just have a chat about your day. Hot food and drinks are available. No need to book, just turn up. Call 01530 510 515 or email info@mrc.uk.net for details.
Walking Football is a slower version of football with lots of fun. It’s a great way to meet new people and make friends and is suitable for all abilities. Sessions run each Wednesday from 7pm to 8pm at Ibstock Community College, Central Avenue, Ibstock. No booking is required, just turn up and play. £1 per session. For more information call 01530 242 706 or email info@ megroup-uk.co.uk
This friendly craft club meets in the back room of the Cricket Club, Melbourne Road, Ibstock, LE67 6NN between 7pm and 9pm on the first Thursday of each month. Upcoming meetings will be held on Thursday 2nd February and Thursday 2nd March. Bring along your project and get creative while making new friends. It’s completely free and tea, coffee and biscuits are also available. New members are always made welcome.
Open Mic Night is back at Newmarket, Marlborough Square, Coalville on the last Thursday of each month. Upcoming dates include Thursday 23rd February and 30th March. Doors open 7pm to 10pm. Starts at 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to join in, simply sign up on the night. Entry is free and drinks are available from the bar.
Hospice Hope run friendly, weekly, drop-in support groups in Ashby, Coalville and Ibstock for anyone who has a condition that leads to a reduction in quality of life or who have been diagnosed with a life limiting condition as well as offering support to their partner or carer. Open to patients, their family members and carers, the Cafés offer the opportunity to receive support, take a break and meet new people. There’s no need to book, just drop in – there’s no charge for attending. For details of each café including days, times and location see hospicehope.org.uk/ services/support-cafs-in-nwl/
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.
We hope this edition of Ibstock Life finds everyone safe & well. Over at TCV we have been busy in January shaking off the wintery slumber and working to improve the biodiversity of woodlands and ponds as well as planting new hedges & laying existing hedgerows, a traditional skill that we love to teach people about. We’ve been blessed with sightings of ravens and foxes as well - bonus!
As we round off our winter programme of works before heading into spring, we’ll be creating hundreds of metres of new hedgerows along with other tasks. Those who want to join in should contact our project officer for the National Forest area, Jack Riggall, at jack.riggall@tcv.org. uk or 07483 045 711.
For those who are looking for answers to our mini tracking quiz from January, the footprints were those of a brown hare and a red fox. Congratulations to those who knew the answers!
Want something that combines supreme comfort with a little decadence this Valentine’s Day? Well look no further than this divine truffled macaroni dish with an extra boost from smoked haddock, created by MasterChef’s John Torode.
Method 1 Blend together all the ingredients for the breadcrumbs in a food processor until roughly chopped, season, then set aside. Boil the macaroni one minute less than the time on the pack, drain, toss in the olive oil and set aside.
2 Tip the onion, milk and the smoked haddock into a pan, and season. Simmer gently for 10 mins, then remove the haddock. Flake the flesh and drizzle with the truffle oil and set aside.
3 Mix the butter and flour together to make a paste. Over a low heat, whisk the paste into the hot milk and bring to the boil, stirring all the time. Remove from the heat and add half the grated cheese and stir well.
4 Take the pan off the heat, tip the pasta into the sauce and mix well, then fold through the haddock and season with ground black pepper. The
For the macaroni
• 250g macaroni
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 500ml milk
• 300g smoked haddock
• 1 tbsp truffle oil
• 50g soft butter, plus extra for the dish
• 25g plain flour
• 100g gruyère, coarsely grated
For the breadcrumbs
• 50g white breadcrumbs
• small pack parsley, leaves picked
• small thyme sprig, leaves picked
• small pack tarragon, leaves picked
• 1 garlic clove, roughly chopped
• small piece of butter
• drizzle of truffle oil, plus extra to serve
sauce may seem a little thin, but it’ll thicken as it cooks. Butter a large ovenproof dish and tip in all the macaroni (I like it piled high), then finish by scattering over the rest of the cheese and most of the breadcrumbs. This can be prepared a day ahead, covered and kept in the fridge.
5 To cook, heat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark
6. Bake for 20 mins until bubbling and sprinkle with the rest of the breadcrumbs. Bake for five minutes more, then drizzle a little more truffle oil on top, and scatter some extra herbs, if you like.
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.
• 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
• 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
• 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
• Warm Spaces – 1pm – 4pm – the Palace will be providing a ‘warm space’ and a free hot drink each Wednesday until the end of March 23 for anyone wishing to come along.
• 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
• 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
• 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
2023
A reworking of the classic tale of the cursed prince Adam and how his love for Beauty saves the day. Tickets £7.50 for adults and £5 for under 16s.
Friday 10th February Palace Film Night – The Lost King Guided by instinct and spectral visions, an ambitious writer and amateur historian defies the academic establishment to unearth Richard III’s long-missing remains in a Leicester car park. Doors and bar open 7pm. Film starts 7.30pm. Tickets £5.
A great opportunity to see local Rap/Hip Hop artist Aaron Hughes (known as Triple Rose) perform with producer, DJ and close friend Zak Beanland. A live concert playing his latest creations and nostalgic favourites. Doors and bar open at 7pm, performance begins at 7.30pm. Tickets £5 – available on www.eventbrite.co.uk
Wednesday 1st March Palace Wine Club Join a group of likeminded people who enjoy
wine and learning more about it. Contact Juliette on 07806 711939 for more details. 7pm until 9pm in the Centenary Room
Saturday 11th March Palace Social Dance
Eddie ‘The Collector’ returns with his fabulous music for an evening of Ballroom, Latin and Sequence dancing. Doors and bar from 7pm, dance starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £6.
The
Choir A very special night with the Gresley Male Voice Choir. The Choir has toured extensively in the UK, Ireland, Europe and USA. Doors and bar from 7pm, dance starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £10.
For tickets call the box office on 01530 262 400 or see www.thepalaceibstock.co.uk
To advertise in Ibstock Life call 01530 417739 or email info@lifemagazines.co.uk
The UK’s cost of living crisis has seen the average household’s energy bill increase to around £3,500, as we experience the highest inflation rates in 40 years, so is it time to turn away from the oven and invest in one of these more energy-efficient cooking appliances?
With up to 10% of your energy bill spent on kitchen appliances, it follows that cooking with more energy-efficient appliances could save you hundreds of pounds a year. Here we explore the most efficient alternatives, from the ubiquitous microwave to the humble slow cooker.
When it comes to hobs, much like your oven, gas is cheaper, but electric is more effective.
A lot of heat is lost into the room with gas, but the difference in cost makes the result negligible.
However, an induction hob is incredibly efficient because there is no energy lost around the pan (even electric ceramic plates waste heat), so if induction is an option, go for it.
Microwaves
Microwaves use up to 80% less energy than a conventional oven and cost as little as 8p a day to run. The downside of course is what you gain in speed and convenience, you lose in versatility.
However, it may be worth switching to your microwave when cooking vegetables, pasta and poached eggs, over boiling big pots of water on the hob.
It’s official, slow cookers are back in fashion, and with good reason. Not only have they been found
to run on as little energy as a lightbulb, they are also great for feeding a family and can make tough cuts of meat such as beef shin and brisket tender and delicious.
They are also very hands off, meaning you can throw the ingredients in and leave it for hours!
A relatively new invention, air fryers are essentially small convection ovens, making them ideal for small jobs such as cooking frozen fish fingers for your child’s tea or heating up a small pie for lunch.
Also, as the name suggests, the air fryer makes superbly crispy chips with a lot less energy than the oven… and a lot less oil than a traditional fryer.
Pressure cookers can save a huge amount of energy compared to traditional cooking methods, simply because they get the job done so much quicker. They also make cheap ingredients – lowquality cuts of meat, dried beans and pulses etc. – into meals fit for a king.
The one downside of the pressure cooker is that they take a bit of getting used to, especially as the pressure releasing process can be rather scary!
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