Ibstock Life January 2023

Editor

Vanessa Preece 01530 417739

Email enquiries

Advertising/Accounts

Website/What’s On info@lifemagazines.co.uk

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Part of Ashby Life Ltd

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

Thank you to Martin Cooper – winner of this month’s front cover competition for his image of a snowy Packington

Welcome

Welcome to our first issue of 2023. Over on Ashby Life we are celebrating our 200th issue!!! Can you believe that we have some of the same businesses advertising with us who first appeared in the 2005 issues?

www.ibstocklife.co.uk JANUARY 2023 INSIDE THIS MONTH: WIN AN ESCAPE ROOM EXPERIENCE FOR FOUR LOCAL EVENTS FOR 2023 Kickstart your business this New Year with local advertising Call 01530 417739 or see www.ibstocklife.co.uk

Reach 6,000 local homes with every month www.ibstocklife.co.uk COMMUNITY MELBOURNE SHOWROOM OPENING September

It’s a great way to start the New Year – with a reminder that despite the challenges of the last few years (and those we may face this year) our magazines carry on, stronger than ever, supporting local businesses, organisations and community groups.

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.

January is also the month to think about new beginnings and to look ahead. We’re in the lucky position here in the Ibstock Life office of finding out about all the many events which take place in our area. We’ve compiled a list of key local events to put in your 2023 diary and of course each month we will bring you all the latest news and updates. See pages 20 and 21.

I hope you find some inspiration from this month’s contributors and advertisers to try something new. May the new year bless you with health, wealth, and happiness.

Would you like to advertise with us? issueFebruary

Thursday 12th January 4 IBSTOCK LIFE – Delivered direct to your doorstep since 2005

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.

WIN an Escape Room experience for 4 players, together with pizza and a soft drink!

Yew Lodge Hotel in Kegworth has 113 ensuite bedrooms, a stunning swimming pool and spa, an amazing restaurant and not one but two unique escape rooms. It’s the ideal venue for a spot of lunch, a relaxing spa day, a party or even a wedding.

In 2015 Marco’s New York Italian by Marco Pierre White opened at Yew Lodge. It’s all about good Italian/American food in a relaxed setting. This casual dining experience serves lunch, dinner, bar bites, afternoon tea and cocktails. The menu consists of Italian dishes including mouthwatering Italian sharing platters, fresh seafood, homemade pizza and pasta to American favourites such as succulent steaks and burgers.

Whether you’re a fan of escape rooms ready to tackle a new challenge or a complete novice looking to try it for the first time Houdini’s Escape Room Experience at Yew Lodge is an experience not to be missed. There are two rooms to take on – in each, teams of players work together to find hidden clues, crack puzzles, complete exciting challenges and solve the mystery before the time runs out.

In Houdini’s Last Secret you and your friends have been personally invited to the last ever performance of the great escapologist and

illusionist, Harry Houdini. Can you find your way backstage, solve the clues hidden in Houdini’s famous props and uncover the mystery behind Houdini’s disappearance?

You can find out more about Yew Lodge Hotel online at www.yewlodgehotel.co.uk or call 01509 672518 to make a booking in the hotel, restaurant, spa or escape rooms.

WIN, WIN, WIN!

One lucky person could WIN an escape room experience for four players, together with pizza and a soft drink each in Marcos’ New York Italian. To be in with a chance of winning simply email competition@lifemagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘WIN with Yew Lodge Hotel’ and let us know your name, address and contact telephone number. Be quick as you only have until midnight on Friday 27th January to enter. See www.ibstocklife.co.uk for full terms and conditions.

The winner will be entitled to one escape room experience for four players followed by four pizzas and four soft drinks at Marco’s New York Italian restaurant. The prize will be given as an e-voucher. The prize must be booked within three months of the closing date of 27th January 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.

e National Forest teams up with Aardman to help reach 10 million trees!

We are delighted to announce we’re partnering with the award-winning animation studio, Aardman, for three years to continue to create a greener, healthier and more sustainable future. The much-loved Aardman character Shaun the Sheep is back to help the National Forest reach the planting milestone of 10 million trees.

Our partnership launched during National Tree Week with Shaun and his friends promoting our Dedicate a Tree initiative, in a new animation featuring on the National Forest’s and Aardman’s social media channels, with more animations to follow. Aardman’s red squirrel character, Stash also features, representing a positive vision of the future of the National Forest where maturing woodlands can help restore native species.

The partnership highlights the many benefits of tree planting and how it can help to tackle climate change. Trees have always been a catalyst for change here in the National Forest with over 9 million planted in the last 30 years. With the aim to reach a third of the land area as forest we need the public’s support more than ever.

To celebrate the partnership, a 1.5m tall Shaun the Sheep sculpture was in attendance as a native oak tree was planted at Minorca Woods, the youngest woodland in the National Forest. This new woodland was made possible with funding from the government’s Nature for Climate Fund, which enables more trees to be planted, the creation of more green and wooded spaces for people to enjoy, and new wildlife habitats.

John Everitt, chief executive of the National Forest Company said: “We’re delighted to partner with such a creative and inspiring brand as Aardman, as we work towards our 10 millionth

tree milestone. We hope this collaboration with Shaun the Sheep will inspire people to support our tree planting initiative, helping mitigate and adapt to a changing climate as well as benefitting biodiversity and communities for years to come.”

Our Dedicate a Tree initiative allows individuals to grow the Forest by donating to help plant a sapling, creating new woodlands including Minorca Woods, that will be with us for generations to come.

If you would like to support the National Forest, help to grow a positive future and give a greener gift this holiday season please visit: www.nationalforest.org

nationalforest.org

PREVENTION IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN CURE.

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.

The product is just what we were looking for and wish we had discovered it years ago. No more annual painting or waking up to fallen panels! We are very pleased with our new fence. Mr & Mrs Green, Sandy

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To see our wide choice of sizes, colours and designs –contact us today!

We also have a wide range of ColourRail in various designs and colours, please ask for details.

Home is where the hearth is

As if the winter didn’t bring about all its usual frosty challenges, the energy crisis threatens to make the demands of this year even greater than usual.

While they may not provide a full solution, there are a range of alternative ideas that can help you provide or retain heat in your home.

Draught excluders

A blast from the past, certainly, but draught excluders are set to be a hot trend in home décor this winter. Cheap, stylish and incredibly efficient when it comes to keeping cold air out and warm air in, they are a useful addition to every home. Children especially appreciate them when disguised as an adorable snake or sausage dog.

Heated drying racks

While regular clothes horses can take an age to dry your clothes and tumble driers eat up energy, heated racks provide that happy medium. Neat, compact and effective, they run from as little as 3p per hour and can generally fit a full load of washing on them.

They also have the added benefit of providing a little extra warmth, making them ideal for rooms that are on the chilly side.

Electric blankets

They may be associated with the elderly, but there’s nothing quite as luxurious as having a heat source in your bed; and with sales soaring this winter, it’s clear electric blankets are back in fashion.

Obvious benefits include being able to turn your thermostat down at night which will save a significant amount on your energy bill, as well as keeping you cosy on the sofa when having an evening in front of the telly.

Thermal

curtains

Windows are one of the main places heat escapes from in your home, and by investing in some thick thermal curtains, you can at least limit money flying out of them. Just be sure to draw them as soon as the night rolls in.

Chimney balloon

Those fortunate enough to have a functioning hearth this winter will certainly benefit from the low-cost heat it produces. However, anyone with a chimney that doesn’t function as a fireplace can invest in an inflatable chimney balloon for preserving warmth in your home. Failing that, a couple of old pillows will have a similar effect.

Reflect your radiators

Fit reflector panels behind your radiators to maximise heat efficiency. These ensure heat is bounced back into the room and not allowed to escape through an exterior wall.

For a homemade option, simply attach some cardboard lined with foil behind your heater.

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Local Events for 2023

Timber Festival

7th, 8th & 9th July

Timber Festival is back with another 3 days of music, forests, arts and ideas. Gather with artists, musicians and writers in a joyous celebration of nature. Enjoy for one day or camp for the weekend, the choice is yours. There’s even boutique camping options with Tinker’s Bell Tents. Unplug, walk in among the trees and fall under Timber’s spell. Tickets are on sale now at https://timberfestival.org.uk/ tickets/ with 25% off for anybody who lives in the National Forest.

Moira Canal Festival

20th & 21st May

Whether it’s a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Morris dancing, children’s crafts, local bands and singers, historical re-enactment or something more unusual – there is something to entertain the whole family at this annual event held at Moira Furnace. Live steam train rides, a variety of stalls and demonstrations, boats, a bar and refreshments; there’s plenty going on! See www.moiracanalfestival.com or follow their Facebook page for the latest news and announcements.

Ashby Show

9th July

This familyfriendly event at Cattows Farm in Heather will, as always, be hosting a wide range of show classes for cattle,

sheep, horses, show jumpers, poultry & pigeons. In the shopping area you can expect a huge number of trade stands, country crafts, award winning artisan local produce and plenty of quality food courts. Details of the exciting main ring programme are yet to be released but you’re guaranteed to see vintage vehicles, classic cars and show jumping plus much more. Four legged friends are welcome. For further info & ticket booking see their website www.ashbyshow.com/

30th July – 6th August

In 2022 Heather Scarecrow Festival returned bigger and better than ever! The aim of the festival is to raise funds for village groups, whilst providing an affordable day out for visitors. As well as amazing scarecrows, you can expect inflatables, stalls, refreshments and more, depending on which days you visit. Scarecrow Guides are available to help you find all of the scarecrows and vote for your favourite. Follow their Facebook page for details nearer the datewww.facebook.com/HeatherScarecrowFestival

Bosworth Medieval Festival August

This two-day family event, held at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, features battle reenactments by the Wars of the Roses Federation as well as a medieval market, knight school for the children, a range of craft activities, cookery demonstrations, medieval music performances, mini guided walks and a whole range of food and drink stalls. Children can take part in the fancy dress competition with some fantastic prizes. The Tithe Barn 1485 tea room will also be open both days. For info and tickets see www. bosworthbattlefield.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.ibstocklife. co.uk/submit-event.html. Deadline for submissions for the February issue is Thursday 12th January. Life Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. For any queries, please email info@lifemagazines.co.uk

Heather Scarecrow Festival

Winter Activity in the House

Every year when the house closes over winter, a buzz of activity takes place behind closed doors. It’s a time when the collections team carry out the big winter clean. This entails cleaning and inspecting every room on the visitor route, from the objects themselves to the walls and carpets around them. This keeps the collections team busy until the end of winter, along with carrying out essential repairs.

However, there’s still an opportunity to venture inside the house this winter and see some of this work in action on a behind-the-scenes conservation tour. Expect to learn all about the important work of the collections team and the difficulties the team face in looking after the House, such as their struggles with humidity and pest outbreaks. You’ll also gain inside knowledge about some of Calke’s key collection items and see the house ‘put to bed’, as the collection is concealed with dust covers. This is to protect the objects and furniture from being exposed to unnecessary light or dust and offers you a unique and atmospheric view inside the house.

For those who prefer a tour with a twist, Calke Unlocked tours will also be running, offering a slightly wacky, interactive, fast-paced flavour of the historic House. Along with your tour guides, you’ll whizz around the house uncovering behind-the-scenes snippets, sharing scandalous

secrets and backstories, discovering the weirdest collection items, and exploring the forgotten nooks and crannies of the un-stately home. To find out more information on all of these tours, please visit the Guided Tours web page on our website.

This winter, you’ll also have the chance to walk in the footsteps of the servants on an exclusive tour around the ‘below stairs’. Enter through the West Door and explore rooms and spaces where the servants lived and worked, giving you the opportunity to see areas that aren’t open to general visitors on the visitor route. Learn about their life and listen to stories of the servants themselves. In The Steps of Servants tours will be coming soon, so keep your eyes peeled on the website to find out more.

There’s also the chance to enter the downstairs Family Apartments this winter. We’re working with Derby Embroidery and Textiles Group to put together two displays in the Little Dining Room and Sitting Room around the theme of curiosity. Expect to see a few quirky objects from Calke’s collection, as well as artwork and textiles produced by the Derby Embroidery and Textiles Group for no additional charge.

Main and inset: A tour with a twist @ National Trust/Sally Thearle See the work of the collections team on a conservation tour

@ National Trust/Susan Guy

Ibstock Surgery

Over the last couple of years, we are sad to report that rude, intimidating and generally poor behaviour towards our staff has increased. Please be assured that our whole team are doing their best to ensure your health needs are met. It is a fact that there are fewer appointments available than patients would like. This is a national problem and not just one affecting Ibstock & Barlestone surgeries.

We very much appreciate being treated with kindness and respect, just as you would wish to be treated. As an employer we have a duty of care to our staff and wish to make this a pleasant place to work. Therefore, we have decided to strengthen our zero tolerance commitment. If a patient is generally rude, abusive or offensive to a member of our staff, we will send them a letter letting them know that this is unacceptable. If the same behaviour happens again, we will view it as a breakdown of the relationship between the patient and the surgery and will ask you to register at another surgery. If a patient is violent towards a member of our staff, this is likely to lead to immediate removal from our list.

We know that 99.9% of patients are pleasant, kind and understanding, and we thank you for this. It is just sad that we must take this action because a small minority of patients aren’t. Thank you all for your understanding.

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 January

Saturday 28th January ‘Hoagy!’ by the Chris Ingham Trio

A unique and fascinating celebration of the music of singer-pianistsongwriter Hoagy Carmichael presented by three of the UK’s top jazz musicians. Doors and bar open at 7pm, performance begins at 7.30pm. Tickets: £12 standard, £10 over 65’s and Palace members, £7 16 years and under.

Coming up:

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

Friday 13th January

Palace Film Night - ‘Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris’

In 1950s London, a widowed cleaning lady falls madly in love with a couture Dior dress, deciding she must have one of her own. After working to raise the funds to pursue her dream, she embarks on an adventure to Paris that will change not only her own outlook but the very future of the House of Dior. £5 per ticket. Doors and bar open 7pm. Film starts 7.30pm.

Saturday 14th January

The 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.

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.

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

Happy New Year to all our Volunteers and Patrons

Thank you for your support!

To advertise in Ibstock Life call 01530 417739 or email info@lifemagazines.co.uk

Winter interest and owers

A garden which still holds interest and looks good at this time of the year is hard to find. There are places where the gardens do still look rather magnificent though. One of the best ones I have been to is Anglesey Abbey, a National Trust property in Cambridgeshire, where there is a large winter garden area open in January which is colourful, scented and structured. Closer to home the Trentham Gardens in Staffordshire are still inspirational at this time of year. Here the combination of neat clipped hedges and vast swathes of ornamental grasses standing proud against a cold blue winter sky is a perfect picture. A rather beautifully placed modern glass walled cafe within the gardens offers a warm viewing spot if you start to feel too chilled.

A striking tree in winter is the Silver Birch. The form of Birch called Betula jacquemontii is clean bright white with the trunk and branches getting whiter and more striking with age. A shock of lipstick red is achieved by groups of Cornus (Dog woods) which look fantastic in the bright low winter sun. Other plants good for winter scent which you could consider using, include the winter flowering honeysuckle with its combination of crisp white and yellow flowers and Sarcococa confusa grown as individual shrubs or hedging in shady areas. A valuable brighter burst of yellow scented flower can be achieved also by growing Mahonia, which also has a strong architectural evergreen leaf.

The flowering plants mentioned here are valuable for wildlife, as the scent of the flowers encourages insects which pollinate over the winter out into the cold air. Also valuable are berries on shrubs and trees, which give a festive decoration and provide food for birds.

Winter interest is also achievable in a small domestic garden. A strong garden structure in the form of a neatly trimmed hedge, particularly an evergreen one, a brick or stone retaining wall and crisply cut lawn edges, all make for focal points transformed into an icy seasonal picture with a hard frost. Choosing a deciduous tree with an attractive pretty bark of cool white or mahogany red will stand out and bring interest in winter months. Similarly, if you have placed a section of pretty trellis, an arbour to sit under or a pergola to walk through it will become even more of a feature at this time of year now the perennial and deciduous plants are dormant.

Plan thoughtfully, and you can have an interesting garden all year round. A symmetrical garden, potentially with classical lines, topiary, architectural pots will all come into their own at this time of year.

Happy gardening.

By local garden designer, Francesca Sinclair

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

New year health MOT

We book our cars in for an annual MOT, yet rarely show the same level of care for our bodies… which often take on more stress than our trusty motors. So this January, why not start the year with a health checklist to set you on the road to wellbeing success?

Calculate your BMI

One of the most effective ways to see where you are weight-wise, is to work out your BMI. You can do this using an online calculator, a visual chart or with the following formula:

• Weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared

This will tell you whether you are underweight, healthy, overweight, obese or extremely obese. And, while you may not be thrilled with the result, it is a helpful tool to plot where you want to get to as the months go by.

Measure your habits

January is the month we allow ourselves to get really honest about the effects our lifestyles are having on our bodies. So, while you may tell the odd white lie to your doctors, try to be frank with yourself.

Put your best foot forward, whilst accepting it may take a few goes to get your pistons firing again.

Check your diet

If you’ve had a decadent festive period, you may want to embark on a strict regime to reset your metabolism. Studies show that national wellbeing initiatives such as Dry January or Veganuary make us more likely to stick to our personal goals thanks to the camaraderie and exposure they provide us. So bite the bullet (or butternut squash) and

devote at least 31 days to the new you.

Run a risk assessment

Anyone over the age of 40 – but under 74 – is entitled to a free NHS health check. This a simple check of your heart health which tests your vascular or circulatory health, and works out your risk of developing some of the most disabling –but preventable – illnesses. It is free of charge, including any follow-up tests or appointments.

Make a plan

Make the next 12 months count by setting yourself achievable goals.

Perhaps you want to run your first 10K by the start of spring, or be down a dress size by summer. Maybe you are determined to quit smoking once and for all or are keen to get your five-a-day on a regular basis.

Whatever your aim, make life easier by plotting a course to success and by giving yourself small rewards along the way.

A pawfect year

New Year’s resolutions your beloved pooch will really appreciate.

Walk the walk

Exercise and mental stimulation too are essential for dogs, who love to explore their world through scents and rely on new fragrances in the same way you crave a new book or daily crossword.

Brush up on grooming

Non-moulting breeds rely on regular trips to the groomers to maintain their luscious coats, but every dog needs a brush once in a while, not to mention claws being clipped and if you’re really conscientious, the occasional toothbrush.

Buy the good grub

With wet food, a high meat content is always preferable and a combination of this with dry meal is often a good way to keep your pups from an upset tummy. Carrots are a great snack occasionally along with good quality treats.

Be alert to bedding

Dogs get a bad rep when it comes to personal

hygiene, but really it is us, their human companions, who are responsible. So wash their beds, replace their chew toys when they become too worn out, and throw their water bowl in the dishwasher occasionally.

Ensure you insure

Vet fees can be exorbitant, while insurance excess fees and monthly rates rise as your dog gets older, so insure when your dog is young if possible and maintain the policy for maximum peace of mind.

The same goes for vaccinations and other monthly medications that your poochie needs – from worming to tick and lungworm pills, prevention is always better than cure.

Nigel Slater’s lamb hotpot

We’re getting to that time of the year when rustic food comes packed with extra appeal. Perhaps it’s the warmth, perhaps the fullness to see us through the winter months, or maybe we just want to treat ourselves when the weather outside is cold and inhospitable.

Whatever it is, this lamb hotpot is simple to put together and a perfect cosy dinner for two on a cold day. Serve with some simple greens and you have something resembling perfection!

Method

1 Preheat the oven to 170°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.

2 Lightly dredge the lamb chops in the flour. Heat the oil in a shallow ovenproof pan with a lid, then add the lamb chops and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the lamb from the pan and set aside. Add the onions, parsnips and garlic to the same pan and cook for 2-3 minutes. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and add the rosemary.

3 Return the lamb chops to the pan, tuck the potatoes around

Ingredients (serves 6-8)

• 4 thick lamb neck chops

• plain flour, for dredging

• good glug of fruity olive oil

• 3 onions, peeled and cut into wedges

• 2-3 large parsnips, peeled and cut into sixths

• 6 large, juicy garlic cloves, peeled, cut in half

• salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 6-8 fresh rosemary sprigs

• 6-8 small potatoes, cut in half

Top Tip:

Add in a handful of chopped jalapeño chillies for an extra kick!

the chops, season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and pour in just enough water to cover the pan contents. Cut out a circle of greaseproof paper the same size and shape as the inside of the pan. Place the paper circle over the lamb and vegetables, then cover the pan with the lid.

4 Cook in the preheated oven for an hour or so, until the meat is tender.

DESIGN SPACE HOME

A place to come together, beautifully designed, spacious and light, energy efficient, low maintenance.

Community Board

Free Community Wellbeing Sessions

The Marlene Reid Centre in Coalville run these free specialised sessions which are a great opportunity for anyone in the area who wants to boost their physical and emotional health, manage stress or join a healthy support network. Sessions include Yoga Social from 10am to 12noon on Mondays, Therapeutic Chair Yoga from 12.30pm to 1.30pm on Mondays, Yoga Class from 5.30pm to 6.30pm each Wednesday and Yin Yoga between 5pm and 6pm on Fridays. Book your space online at www. theinnermovement.co.uk/book-online or call Lucianne on 07305 779 238.

Run for Charity Link

Are you already in training or want to get fitter in the New Year? If you’d like to take part in a run to raise some funds for Charity Link they would love to support you. Get in touch to let them know of your event and how they can help, if you’d like a charity t-shirt or running vest etc. Events include the Leicester 10K starting at Jubilee Square in Leicester city centre on Sunday 29th January, Leicestershire Half Marathon at Prestwold Hall on Sunday 26th February, Leicester’s Big 10K around Abbey Park on Sunday 16th April and the Leicester Half Marathon / 10K starting and finishing at Victoria Park on Sunday 1st October. See https://charity-link.org/ or call 0116 222 2212.

Tea Parties

Thrive, the team behind The Singing Café, also run tea parties to offer a safe space for people to get together and connect. The tea parties have been started as a means of tackling mental health issues and loneliness within our community. They provide support to anybody who needs it. The tea parties are completely free and take place on the last Sunday of each month between 1pm and 3pm at their facility in Stanton, Leicestershire. For more details see www. thrivewithus.org.uk or call 07875 378628.

Dementia Support Groups

If you or someone you know suffers with Dementia and could benefit from extra support then there are local groups within the community that you could attend. Coalville Memory Café is held on the first Friday of each month between 2pm and 3.30pm at the Marlene Reid Centre, Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. This informal group is often attended by speakers and has activities arranged for information or entertainment. If you have any questions contact Alzheimer’s Society Leicestershire & Rutland on 0116 231 1111 or leicestershireandrutland@alzheimers.org

The Carers Centre – Leics & Rutland

This Leicestershire based charity are a well known local charity, dedicated to supporting unpaid carers across the diverse populations and communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. For over 30 years they have supported thousands of carers who provide vital support to family members or friends in many differing ways. As well as an advice and information helpline they also hold a wide range of social groups and activities for carers to meet and take time out, many via Zoom. For details, follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ TheCarersCentreLLR

Time to Get Walking Again

If one of your New Years resolutions is to improve your fitness then walking is a perfect way to build up your stamina. The biggest challenge can be where to find new and interesting walks. Walking in Leicestershire - www.walkinginengland.co.uk/ leics - has hundreds of walks to download and print for free. It also has books of walks, details of all the walking groups in the county and much more. Whether you want to walk on your own or with a group all the information is there in one place. With walks from half a mile to over twelve miles long, and a note of suitability for pushchairs and wheelchairs, everyone can find a walk to enjoy.

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

love to hear from you.

So much to look forward to in 2023!

On Saturday 14th January the Venture Jazz Club presents their annual performance by a most popular jazz artiste. ‘Spats’ Langham and his Hot Fingers are coming to the theatre and tickets are already whizzing out of the door. He is by far our bestselling act and his 1920’s/30’s crooning and storytelling enthrals our audiences. Tickets cost £15.

On Saturday 21st January we have the great pop band - Hey! Beatles returning. Come and see the band portray the musical life of Britain’s greatest group. Tickets cost £12.

On Saturday 25th February a new face and band are coming to the Jazz club, it’s Sarah Spencer and her Transatlantic Jazz Band. The band comprise some of the best musicians in the country including several who are London based. Mike Henry or Magic Mike on trumpet is a treat to watch. The band leader, Sarah Spencer is one of the country’s hottest tenor sax players and if it’s exciting danceable jazz you like don’t miss this great band. Tickets cost £15.

Our Next Dramatic Production

The next play at the Venture Theatre will be ‘The Turn of the Screw’ by Henry James. The plot tells the story of a governess who is desperate to protect the children in her charge from evil and strange encounters. The scene is set in a remote country house. If you like a scary tale then come and immerse yourself in this chilling, gripping play with an extraordinary climax. This production is an adaptation by Patrick Prior.

The play runs from Thursday 23rd to Saturday 25th March and from Wednesday 29th March

through to Saturday 1st April. The tickets for this production are only available on our website. They cost £10 and that includes a free programme!

Why not become a member?

To join Ashby Dramatic Society just pop in on a Monday evening between 8pm and 10pm or call Ken Ward on 01530 589 268. Everyone is welcome to join.

For details of all our events and productions see our website ‘ashbyventuretheatre.org.uk’

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Daylight slowly returns

Over at The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) we hope this latest edition of Ibstock Life Magazine finds you all safe & well in the New Year after a lovely restful break with loved ones, having had lots of good food over the Christmas & winter holidays. We’ve passed the winter solstice now, and daylight is returning slowly but surely. Snowdrops will soon be here, followed by other wildflowers heralding a new spring, and we can’t wait!

Before then, though, we have lots to do and enjoy throughout January and February, with a number of volunteer days lined up in the National Forest to repair dry stone walls, create hundreds of metres of new hedgerows along with other exciting tasks. We also have a number of community woodfuel days arranged at country parks owned by Leicestershire Country Park, during which you can learn about woodland management, learn practical skills, meet new people and take home firewood for your log burners – all for free!

If anyone is interested in joining any of our

volunteer days, please get in touch with Jack Riggall at jack.riggall@tcv.org.uk or on 07483 045 711. Upcoming tasks will be shown on our Facebook page’s events tab; find us by searching for @TCVNationalForest.

Last, but not least, if anyone fancies a bit of detective work and wants to try and identify these footprints left in the snow, then please do! We’ll reveal the answers in the February edition…

Architects

Cam Butler Ward 3 Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Jewellery & Toys

Ashby Bears 53

Builders & Building Supplies

Beeston Building and Groundworks 51 Childcare, Schools & Tuition Go Learn 17

Chiropodists

Ashby Chiropody & Podiatry Clinic 8 Cleaning, Ironing & Laundry Services

Oven Clean 45 Dental Services

Beautiful Dentures 45 Domestic Appliances

1-4-All Appliance Repairs 52 Driving Schools

Bardon School of Motoring 25 RDT School of Motoring 12 Electricians

P A Smart Electrical Services 54 Ramsell & Watkins 12 Estate Agents & Housing Cameron Homes 43 Events & Attractions

Stags Head Events 17

The Palace Community Centre 25 Through the Wardrobe 51

Food & Drink

Moo Fresh 12

Funeral Services

Markfield Natural Burial Ground 40 Garden Design & Maintenance

Arctic Cabins Ltd 37

Charnwood Tree Services 26 Colour Fence 15

Eden Tree Care & Fencing Ltd 12 & 50 Green Thumb (Ashby) 56

Silvan Tree Specialists 7 Healthcare & Wellbeing Care At Home 31 No Place Like Home 53

ProPhysio Ashby 5

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Birch Bedrooms Ltd 39

FABCO Interiors 28 & 29

Gliderobes Ltd 2 National Carpets & Flooring 16

The Bed Shop 47

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Shared Lives Leicestershire 12 Motor Services

Neville Cars 45 Painters & Decorators

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Plumbing, Heating & Gas Services

MBR Plumbing Services............................... 8

Property Repairs & Maintenance

Access 4 Lofts (Stafford) 19

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Crane & Walton (Coalville) 33

LevLaw Ltd 51

Sports, Fitness & Leisure Ibstock Gym 9

Sunnyside Adventure 32 Taxis

Direct Transfer Airport Specialist 52 Windows & Doors Progress Windows 11 Window Mate 25