Now taking orders for free range turkeys, geese, cockerels, multi bird roasts and more. Secure yours with a low £20 deposit. Order online or in store.
over 7ft must be
ordered.
Spruce, Fraser Fir, pot
November.
Editor
Vanessa Preece
01530 417739
www.ibstocklife.co.uk www.facebook.com/ibstocklife @ibstocklife
Part of Ashby Life Ltd
Rockleigh House 37 Burton Road Ashby de la Zouch LE65 2LF
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.
Welcome to our November issue. In this month’s issue we have come over all festive – it may seem early, but Christmas will soon be here. Our round up of this month’s local events features several seasonal craft and gift fairs to help you make a start on your Christmas shopping and on our Christmas Family Fun page we’ve researched the best places locally to go and meet Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves.
We have two fantastic competitions to enter. Look out for our ticket giveaway for the Festive Gift Fair at the NEC later this month. You and a friend could attend one day of the fair and Christmas shop till you drop. See page 10 for details and get your entry in before Thursday 10th November.
Finally, calling all budding photographers – we’re on the search for seasonal images of Ibstock, Heather, Ravenstone or Packington for our upcoming covers. If you have a festive shot or a snowy scene from previous years you could feature on our front cover and win a £25 Amazon voucher. See page 34.
Until next month, Vanessa
It’s a fantastic way to target potential customers and great value for
Did you see the recently broadcast programme on ITV, ‘Putting up with Parkinson’s’ ?
18 months after diagnosis, it was Jeremy Paxman’s take on how Parkinson’s affects him. It led him to meet research experts, attend a ballet class and a bowls club as well as talking to others affected by the condition, including Paul Sinha, diagnosed aged 49. It highlighted that Parkinson’s is more than just a ‘shaking palsy’ and emphasised the need for exercise and staying active.
Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder which means it causes problems with the brain and gets worse over time. It affects around 1 in 350 adults, in the UK. Shaking is the symptom most people associate with Parkinson’s but it is a complex condition and can present with many other signs and symptoms including stiffness and slowness of movement, slurred or slow speech, changes in balance reactions, stooped posture and a less expressive face. There may be invisible symptoms too including sleep disturbances,
anxiety and depression, slowness of thought, memory loss, tiredness, bladder and bowel problems.
Medical treatment is able to relieve symptoms but as yet there is no cure and research is ongoing.
Exercise is essential to reduce the effects of Parkinson’s and slow down progress of the disease. In Ashby, Parkinson’s specific exercise classes take place at the Leisure Centre and a support and social group meet monthly in Packington. If you are interested in either of these, please contact Sue Forrest, ProPhysio’s affiliated neurological specialist physiotherapist on 07530 012 701.
Hospice Hope is delighted to announce that its much loved event, Lights of Love, will return to the Ferrers Centre on Sunday 4th December at 4pm.
This special event gives people the opportunity to hang a personalised tag on the Ferrers Centre’s magnificent courtyard Christmas tree in memory of a loved one, who will be in their thoughts during the festive season.
Details about our Lights of Love event can be found on our website and Facebook page, or simply call 07935 800 658.
Donations for each tag are welcomed and help us to provide our support services (counselling, befriending, drop-in and online groups, complementary therapies and covid recovery) for free to people in North West Leicestershire.
Supporting people, their carers and partners in North West Leicestershire whose quality or length of life is affected by their condition, by providing a wide range of free services. www.hospicehope.org.uk Charity No. 1169561
Christmas isn’t just about buying gifts; it’s making sure every corner of your home looks fabulous and your table is set for a festive feast. The Festive Gift Fair can help with all of this and more. It returns to the NEC from Thursday 17th to Sunday 20th November, running for its 26th year!
At the Fair you’ll find a whole array of delicious artisan food and drink to sample before you buy; from mouth-watering panettone to Christmas pickle and mulled wine jam.
Deck your home for Christmas with everything from gonks galore to magical unicorns and Christmas stockings or set the scene for the big day with beautiful home fragrance and candle gift sets.
Often the most time-consuming part of Christmas shopping is finding unique presents, but there’s no need to be stuck for ideas this year with clever stocking fillers and personalised decorations and gifts to treasure forever.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be caught
up in the excitement of the day; exploring 300 stalls overflowing with thousands upon thousands of clever gift ideas and decorations at affordable prices. The variety is huge, with something for everyone and over 100 new stalls this year.
To get you into the Christmas spirit while you’re shopping at the fair, you can enjoy a whole lineup of fantastic musical entertainment to get your toes tapping.
The Fair is open daily from 9.30am to 5pm. Tickets are available online from just £6 per adult (plus fulfilment fee). See www.festivegiftfair.co.uk for information and book tickets online at www.theticketfactory.com
One lucky person could WIN
tickets to this year’s Festive Gift Fair. To be in with a chance of
with the subject line ‘WIN Festive Gift Fair
’ and
as
Thursday 10th
only have until midnight
We may be biased, but we think the best things in life are trees! If you do too, you can help us grow the National Forest by dedicating a tree. Whether you want to give a special gift this Christmas that can be cherished for years to come, dedicate in memory of a loved one, or simply give back to the environment, dedicating a tree in the National Forest is a great thing to do and helps towards creating a greener future.
The National Forest has shown that trees inspire change, and not just for our landscape. By dedicating a tree, you will not only be helping to continue to grow the Forest, you will 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.
Imagine our landscape scarred by centuries of coal mining. Decades ago, this was the reality. A landscape once black is now lush and green. In order to meet the challenges of climate change, our Forest must be resilient and adaptable into the future. We must continue to plant new woodlands, extend other habitats and improve connections so the benefits of the Forest can be felt by everyone. By dedicating a tree, you will be taking the first step in helping us to tackle these issues and help us to grow a greener future together.
plant from our selection of saplings including oak, hazel and silver birch.
Each dedication comes with a personalised certificate for you to download at home and a guarantee that your tree will be planted in the National Forest.
The planting season runs from November to March each year, and once your tree is planted, we contact you to confirm the location of the young woodland and how to visit, but please note that we do not mark individual trees in any way.
Each tree costs just £15, which covers the cost of not only the tree, but also a contribution to the purchase of the land and the future upkeep and management of the woodland. Your support for the National Forest is invaluable. Help us plant more trees in the National Forest and dedicate a tree here: nationalforest.org/ shop/dedicate-tree
So how do you dedicate a tree? Dedicating a tree online is simple, so simple you won’t even get your hands muddy! We do the planting, you just decide which type of tree you would like us to nationalforest.org
With energy bills rising sharply and taking many of us by surprise, there is a general worry about the cost of heating our homes. There are, in fact, many simple solutions to making us feel warmer and more comfortable at home. Without further ado, let’s go through the checklist now ……
Adding curtains and blinds will help to reduce heat loss. Before we add them, it is wise to seal any gaps around the window and door frames. For best results, opt for thermal lining for your curtains and blinds as it will help to retain heat, and keep out the cold. Curtains and blinds will also transform the look of your windows.
If you are lucky enough to have a stove or a wood burner, the time has come to take advantage of it. The magic of a roaring fire is so mesmerising and can make you feel warm inside and out. To enhance the ambience even further, you can add some tea-lights and candles. If safety is of a concern, there are now very realistic battery operated candles which you can purchase. Real flame ‘Deluxe Candles’ are the best ones I have come across, with a long battery life. The flames look very realistic and are 100% safe in the home.
For those of us who love cushions and throws, you can now convince everyone in your household that they are necessary for everybody to keep warm. You can certainly add more in all rooms to make your home cosier. Good quality merino wool throws will keep you nice and warm
and feel very soft on your skin. To add a touch of glamour, you can add fur throws on seats. For your comfy bed, invest in a high tog wool duvet as it will wick away moisture as well keeping you warm.
For those cold tiled floors, it is time to cover them up with sumptuous carpet or rugs to add warmth and comfort underfoot. Wool carpet with high tog value coupled with a good quality underlay will help to warm your bedrooms and retain heat. If you don’t fancy covering up the whole floor, choose the largest size rug the area can accommodate, as it will define an area and give it a more intimate feel. If the rug size is too small, it can often become a tripping hazard as well as looking a bit silly.
Finally, if you are still using high wattage light bulbs, it is time to replace them all with warm white LED light bulbs. They cost very little to run and will light your home beautifully in an instant.
Eddie Ong FABCO In-store Designer
Coalville CAN is a co-operative, an organization owned by it’s members, fully committed to improving the local community. The team involved, through their connections with communities and providers, aim to realise the potential of Coalville and the wider LE67 area.
Through a variety of workshops, exhibitions, events and services they bring together local residents with their headquarters at Memorial Square in Coalville being the central hub.
The members of Coalville CAN believe much of the power to create great neighbourhoods lies in harnessing the gifts and talents of local people and connecting them with each other. Based on this, they are excited to bring something a bit different to Coalville with their brand new craft shop; Makers.
Makers offers a range of gifts and artwork created for and by local people, who have been
handpicked to feature in the shop and in their art gallery. The shop sells an array of goods such as soaps, wax melts, craft kits, jewellery, hats, bags and accessories, gift cards, and much more. All the products are handcrafted and unique.
The art gallery, also in the same building, boasts the work of talented local artists, and each month the in house art exhibitions have a different theme.
Why not pop in and see what all the buzz is about? The shop is open to the public on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Makers is located in Coalville CAN HQ in the Clock Tower, Memorial Square, Coalville. See Facebook or www.coalvillecan.coop for info.
Dear Santa Live!
Peter Le Marchant Trust, Loughborough
Set off from the Peter Le Marchant Trust base in Loughborough, meet Santa and his elves on their festive canal boat and enjoy an enchanting journey along the Grand Union Canal. Running on various dates throughout December. Duration 1 hour. Suitable for all the family. Ticket price includes a mince pie/cake for each person and each child receives a present. £10 per adult/child. Pre-booking essential. See www.peterlemarchanttrust.co.uk/ event/santas-sleighboat-2022
The Curve, Leicester Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to Sarah, but he doesn’t get it right straight away. With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve. From the author of the well-loved children’s book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell, comes Dear Santa and it’s live. This show is an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged 2+. To spread the Christmas cheer; every child will receive a gift. Running from Thursday 1st to Wednesday 14th December. Pre-booking is required at www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/ shows/dear-santa-live/
Santa’s Winter Wonderland
The Snowdome, Tamworth Santa’s back at the Snowdome for Christmas 2022 with a festive family extravaganza. From Saturday 12th November, his magical winter wonderland in the snow returns and this year he’s all set to spread even more magic along the way… with real snow, real animals and the all new winter wonderland show. It’s the ultimate Christmas adventure for all the family. Pre-booking required www. snowdome.co.uk/santas-winter-wonderland/
Conkers Winter Wonderland
Moira, Derbyshire
Wrap up warm and get ready for a silly Elf adventure as you arrive at Waterside Winter Wonderland, where Santa’s Chief Elf and his team will send you through Waterside’s Enchanted Forest and the Valley of Christmas Lights to discover Santa’s Woodland Grotto. This is your chance to tell Santa that you have been good, and fingers crossed, he may share some preChristmas presents. Pre-booking essential. www. visitconkers.com/events/winter-wonderland/
Stonehurst Farm Victorian Christmas Mountsorrel, Leicestershire Stonehurst Farm are excited to announce their annual Victorian Christmas Weekend will be held on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December. There will be a festive food and craft market, live music from a brass band, glowing log braziers and festive cheer for all ages. Meet Father Christmas and his real reindeer, Comet & Blitzen in the farmyard and don’t forget your wish list to put in Santa’s special post box. See their website www.stonehurstfarm.co.uk/ for more info & booking.
Once again, we’re nearing the end of another season. As the weather grows colder with the anticipation of the first frost, the misty mornings at Calke provide the perfect backdrop for golden hues to shine through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere.
Now is the perfect time to explore all that Calke has to offer, with an autumn free pass running until Wednesday 30th November. The ticket allows up to two adults and four children to enter a National Trust site for free, giving everyone the chance to make new memories at Calke. Please visit the website for more details and keep reading to find out how to make the most of your visit.
Wrap up warm and take in the last moments of Autumn on a walk through the parkland. The Tramway Trail is the ideal route to explore the countryside and take in some fresh air. With an accessible route, the multi-use trail is perfect for everyone. Enjoy landscapes of woodland, farmland, peaceful pasture, and discover part of the old horse-drawn tramway that linked Ticknall to Ashby. Or, get your blood pumping on a bike ride; with a relatively flat surface, it’s perfect for new or rusty cyclists to grow their confidence.
The natural woodland play area at Calke Explore is open all year round, allowing kids to go wild in
nature no matter the season. Zip up your coat, pull on a hat and get ready for adventures in the woods. Or if you need some peace and quiet, take a breather on a bench overlooking the wetlands. The refreshment kiosk is open at weekends, so you can play all day and then warm up with a cuppa or hot chocolate if you’d prefer.
The house is now closed for winter, however, there are behind-the-scenes tours taking place if you’re seeking a VIP experience. The tongue-incheek of Calke Unlocked tours have reappeared in the house, giving you fast-paced flavour of the house and rooms off the traditional visitor journey path. To showcase the collection team, conservation tours are also available. These give you exclusive access to the house and allow you to venture into areas where the team carries out their important work. You’ll also get to see the dust covers that conceal the collection, creating an eery atmosphere, as the team put the house to sleep for winter. Visit the What’s On page of the website – www.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke-abbey - to book your place now.
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We’re on the look out for new seasonal photos of local places and landscapes to feature on our front covers. Whether you’re a keen amateur photographer who is always taking shots of Ibstock and surrounding areas or you have simply captured a local scene on your phone you may have the winning photo for the front cover of one of the upcoming issues of Ibstock Life.
As we look forward to our December, January and February issues we are searching for seasonal images of Ibstock, Heather, Packington, Normanton le Heath, Hugglescote or nearby areas looking festive, or snowy, wintery shots of recognisable local landmarks from previous years to share with the rest of our readers.
Photos will need to be bright and clear, high resolution and landscape orientation. If you’d like to enter your photo please email a copy to competition@ lifemagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘Photo Competition’ along with your full name, address and telephone number and a description of where the photo was taken. Any entries for our December cover will need to be received by Thursday 3rd November. Entries for our January or February covers need to be received no later than Wednesday 30th November.
If your photo is chosen as the winner and featured on our front cover, you will be notified and will win a £25 Amazon gift voucher.
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The warm and welcoming, three-bedroom Edgar is perfect for young families and couples with 0% stamp duty for first time buyers.
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Scan the QR code to make your private appointment today.
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Do you have a whole host of guests crashing into your home this Christmas? Will your guest bedroom live up to expectations? If not it’s in good company, did you know guest bedrooms receive the least love? Only 8% of homeowners are happy with them.
While many of us want to live in a well organised home and have a multifunctional guest room, if truth be told most of us don’t know where to begin. The guest bedroom often becomes a dumping ground for homeless household goods and soon your clutter free haven disintegrates into disorganised chaos.
Help is on hand with Gliderobes. Here are their top tips to create a clutter free guest room that can be used all year round.
• Decluttering is the first step to a calm and ordered room. If an object no longer serves a purpose, why keep it? Letting things pile up leads to a more chaotic life. Once you’ve recycled and got rid of what you don’t need it’s time to deal with what you do need.
• Divide the room into three equally important zones: Sleeping, Storage and Relaxing. The focal point is usually the bed but investing in practical and eye-pleasing fitted wardrobes will certainly make a real statement.
• Choosing the right storage to keep the bedroom looking pristine and tidy is essential. The clever designs of Made to Measure Fitted Wardrobes from Gliderobes can be flexible and functional and fit any angle or slope. The interior just like the exterior can be customised to suit your exact needs and Gliderobes will make sure to use of every inch of space you have.
• Designing the wardrobe doors that reflect your style is exciting. Don’t forget using mirrors and glass will help bounce light around the room making it feel more spacious. For a textured, tactile look choose woods which will give a warm, cosy feeling.
• Add matching freestanding or fitted furniture for a cohesive look. Chests and bedside tables that complement, match or contrast your overall scheme will help you stash and store all your possessions in style.
• Finally, remember to always inject your guest room with a touch of personality. Your home is not a hotel and you should aim to create a space where you want to spend time even when you’re not entertaining visitors.
Take control of your guest bedroom and keep clutter at bay with a made to measure fitted wardrobe. Give your guests the right impression with sleek and stylish bedroom storage that will make them green with envy.
the Open Rope Living History Group and watch a 17th century cannon being fired. Younger visitors can get stuck into some themed craft activities, a fun trail and help to catch the dastardly Guy Fawkes. Normal site admission applies, plus £2 per person. See https://1620shouse.org.uk/ whats-on/
Alison Weir Talk Join Alison Weir in the beautiful surroundings of The Tithe Barn at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre for this talk about final book in the Six Tudor Queens series; “Katharine Parr – the last of Henry’s queens”. Alison will recount the extraordinary story of a woman forced into a perilous situation, rising heroically to the challenge. Her queenship is a holy mission yet, fearfully, she recalls the tragic parade of women who went before her. Tickets £12.50 – available online, or by calling 01455 290 429. One lucky customer will also win a signed book. See www.bosworthbattlefield.org. uk/events/alison-weir-talk-katherine-parr-thesixth-wife/
Head down to Conkers in Moira for the best fireworks display in The National Forest with laser dancers, fire breathers and a laser show. In addition to the spectacular fireworks show, there will be fairground amusements, a sparkler station and safety zone and train rides (£2 per person). Doors Open at 5.45pm. Showtime at 7.30pm. FREE parking. Standard tickets cost £11.50 for adults, £9 for children and £40 for a family ticket. See www.visitconkers.com/event/fireworksspectacular/
The day runs a repeat programme from 11am to 1pm and then 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Join the 1620’s House in this entertaining re telling of the story behind the Gunpowder Plot and discover how the family that lived in the 1620’s House were connected to it. Learn about the properties of gunpowder with
This month’s film night at Packington Memorial Hall will feature the 2021 film; Belfast produced by Kenneth Branagh and starring Judi Dench and Jamie Dornan. A coming-of-age drama set during the tumult of late-1960s Northern Ireland, the film follows young Buddy as he navigates a landscape of working-class struggle, sweeping cultural changes, and sectarian violence. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tea and coffee served from 7pm. £4 for adults and £2 for children. All welcome. No need to book, just turn up.
13th November
Late Autumn Market
Curly Magpie presents a beautiful two-day Autumn Market in the Riding School at Calke Abbey. There will be a variety of lovely local makers and small indie business traders set up across the two days - a perfect opportunity to find vintage and handmade gifts for Christmas. 10am to 5pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday. No charge to enter the market although
usual National Trust admission applies. Free entry for National Trust members. See www. curlymagpie.co.uk/events/
The one and only Marc Bolton, an amazing vocalist and very funny comedian will be performing at the Pavilion Bar and Restaurant in Donisthorpe. Tickets cost £10.95 and include a twocourse lunch. The event will run from 12noon to 3pm. To book tickets please call 01530 272 203.
Stir Up Sunday
Begin Christmas the right way and learn
how to make a traditional Christmas Pudding in the relaxed and beautiful Barn at the 1620’s House & Garden, Donington le Heath. Take home the pudding you’ve made along with a jar of vegetarian mincemeat to share with all the family. Tickets cost £20 per person and price includes all ingredients. Buy tickets online at https://1620shouse.org.uk/events/stir-upsunday-4/ or call 01455 290 429 between 10am and 4pm.
Enjoy an evening of Christmas shopping from 5pm to 9pm in the beautifully decorated courtyard at the Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts, Staunton Harold. On the night you will be able to purchase stunning handmade gifts perfect for Christmas, or maybe just simply relax in the courtyard where you can listen to the music and taste some festive treats. Live music from 5pm. Hop and Hoof Licenced Bar.
The Christmas Variety Show
The D- Day Darlings, present an outstanding festive show for all the family at Century Theatre,
Coalville. Featuring TC comedian Gary T Thompson, musical merry maker Andy Eastwood and a cast of sensational singers and dancers. Expect a highly energetic, interactive, festive filled show, with christmassy costumes and eye-catching choreography to embrace the Christmas season in style. Shows at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets cost £15. Book online at https://centurytheatre. co.uk/whats-on/d-day-darlings-christmasvariety-show/
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 December issue is Thursday 10th November. Life Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. For any queries, please email info@lifemagazines.co.uk
Coming up soon, a great play called Remembrance, being performed on Saturday 5th November.
It’s written and performed by the Bill Brookman Theatre company, based in Loughborough. The play concerns love and life in the First World War and features actors and live musicians. The piece grew from the author’s experiences whilst working in war zones across the world. Tickets cost £10.
On Saturday 12th November, The Venture Jazz Club has booked Jake Legg’s Jug Band. Playing authentic music from the 1920’s and 1930’s it should be another night of great music. Tickets are £12 each.
Our next major production is a Mike Harding play ‘Not with a Bang’. This comedy should have the full title ‘Not with a bang but a whimper’ and refers to the actions of a group of women who believe that nuclear weapons should not be allowed in Britain. The issue is comic and serious
but certainly food for thought and greatly entertaining. The play will be performed on Thursday 24th November through to Saturday 3rd December. Tickets cost £10.
By Mike HardingFinally, yet another superb jazz night will take place on Saturday 10th December. It’s our annual visit by The Ashby Big Band. This entertaining evening includes a small Christmas snack as well as great music and songs from our very own big band. Celebrate Christmas in a fun way!
Tickets can be purchased for all events online at www.ashbyventuretheatre.org.uk or by calling Ken Ward on 01530 589 268.
At some time soon our car park will be closed for at least a week and possibly two. This is while it is resurfaced and landscaped as part of our ongoing building project. We realise this will cause major inconvenience for patients and we would like to apologise in advance.
The main building work has now moved back inside the building causing a lot of loud banging and drilling near to our clinical areas. We do apologise for the inconvenience this will cause to our patients (and our staff are suffering too) but we are towards the end of the work now and looking forward to our modernised building being finished.
If one of our clinicians has requested you to bring a urine sample down for testing, please bring it as early as possible, and in any event before 1pm. This will give us time to process your sample and for the doctor to prescribe antibiotics if necessary. Thank you for your help and co-operation with this.
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.
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
via www.facebook.com/
• 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
• 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
Thursday 10th November
The Palace presents ‘Is that a bolt in your neck?’
A Live and Local event by the brilliantly talented Gonzo Moose Theatre company, inspired by the gothic horror movies of the 1930s. Doors open at 7pm, performance starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £12.
Friday 18th November Palace Film Night
The Palace presents: ‘The Railway Children
Return’ (PG). A group of children are evacuated to a Yorkshire village during WWII, where they encounter a young soldier who, like them, is far away from home. Tickets £5. Doors open at 7pm, film starts at 7.30pm.
Saturday 19th November
Country Cottage Crafts
Browse the largest selection of quality cotton fabrics in the area, along with a large selection of handmade crafts including greeting cards and pictures, personalised vinyl items, cakes, crochet and knitted items, bears and more. 11am to 2pm.
Friday 25th November
Bingo at the Palace
A great night out with Bingo and Play Your Cards Right plus a licensed bar and refreshments. No need to book just turn up on the night. Doors and bar open at 7.30pm, eyes down at 8pm.
Saturday 26th November
The Palace Social Dance
Eddie ‘The Collector’ returns with his fabulous music for an evening of Ballroom, Latin and Sequence dancing. Tickets £6. Doors and bar from 7pm, dance starts at 7.30pm.
Saturday 3rd December
Leicestershire Co-op Brass Band 50 years of making music. Raffle and refreshments. Tickets £9, children free. Doors open 7pm, performance from 7.30pm Contact 07935 263 988.
Saturday 18th December
FTGU Wrestling presents Ibstock Christmas Family Friendly Wrestling Show Wrestling returns, a show not to be missed, and a great afternoon out with the family. Bar opens from 4pm, refreshments available from the kitchen and wrestling merchandise on sale.
For tickets call the box office on 01530 262 400 or see www.thepalaceibstock.co.uk
or email
Mahonias are great plants much loved by designers, they make a lovely focal point and look good throughout the year. They are hardy, with glossy ever green leaves, flowers and berries.
For winter flowers look for the variety Mahonia x media ‘Charity’. This is a monster one that can get up to 5m high and 4m across. It flowers generously at the end of its branches offering fabulous sprays of yellow flowers. This particular plant will give you sweet, scented flowers from November to March. The glossy leaves are sharp like holly, so it needs to be planted where you won’t brush against it too often. Purple berries that follow the flowers are a good food source for birds. The berries are ornamental, and a few spare sprigs can be used for flower arranging.
Once established, this plant offers space beneath it for an under storey of spring bulbs or shady loving perennials. It is versatile and favours shade but will also do well in sun. It requires no pruning but would like a feed every spring; well rotted manure or compost is all it needs. These are good value plants that can be brought for under £10.
Another great choice for winter flowers is Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’, another fast
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growing Mahonia which flowers from November to March. It too grows to 5m high and 4m across. If it outgrows its space it can be pruned in spring time after it has finished flowering back to a side shoot. It will regrow from the base to make a bushy plant.
There are other Mahonias but their flowers don’t appear in winter. They are worth a small mention as they are still super plants. Mahonia nitens ‘Cabaret’ flowers from August to November. Unlike most Mahonias it prefers sun or just partial shade. Its flowers are gorgeous, flame orange yellow sunshine centres. Mahonia ‘Soft caress’ is a variety which won the Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the year in 2013. It is only 1m across and 1m high when fully grown and flowers August to October in sun to full shade and its leaves are not spiky. Mahonia Volcano again likes sun to partial shade and flowers from August to November. It has orange to yellow flowers with fern like leaves which look quite tropical.
By local garden designer, Francesca SinclairFor bespoke contemporary and traditional garden design www.francescasinclair.co.uk 07901 547 360
Health+ are looking for volunteers to help support residents in Leicestershire to feel more confident using digital services to get online and to access health services. If you can do some basic things yourself already, be it shopping online, updating your password or downloading an app, perhaps you could help someone else to do the same? With training and support you could make a huge difference. Contact the Health+ project at healthplus@reachingpeople.co.uk or call Caroline Pepper on 0744 700 6986.
Join Charity Link’s annual Sleepover, which sees a group of amazing people go without their comfy warm bed for one night to help local people in need. You just need warm clothing, a sleeping bag and a bit of grit and determination. There are two ways to get involved; join in at their Leicester City Centre Courtyard (there is a tunnel for cover if the weather is bad and access to a toilet) or take part in your own home, office or garden. Gain sponsorship or undertake fundraising activities to raise funds and help Charity Link to provide essential items for those in need. The sleepover will run from 8pm on Friday 11th through to 8am on Saturday 12th November. For details see https://charity-link.org/events/charitylink-sleepover/
Crisis cafes at the Marlene Reid Centre in Coalville offer local support for people who need immediate help with their mental health. Anyone can come and talk about their mental health –no appointment needed. They have supportive, trained staff who can listen and provide the practical support you need. Active café sessions run 2pm to 6pm on Mondays with mindful activities, join in at your own leisure and discuss anything on your mind. Between 6pm and 10pm on Wednesdays and Fridays drop in for safe
space and friendly face café sessions. Have a chat with the team and talk over any challenges you’re facing. See www.mrc.uk.net/whats-on/ crisis-cafe/
The Ibstock branch of the Royal British Legion and the 1st Ibstock Guides will be holding a fundraiser at Central Bar & Grill, Ibstock from 11am to 3pm on Saturday 12th November. A variety of local crafters will be showcasing their crafts, from handmade jewellery, crochet, decoupage to felt decorations. The 1st Ibstock Guides will be offering a range of activities and tombola. Light refreshments will be available. Free entry. Contact Chantal Lester on chantal_lester@yahoo.co.uk or 07533 627 812 for more details.
Become a Friend of Feed the Need Coalville and you could not only be in with a chance to win a monthly cash prize, but also be supporting the charity and local people in need. For a cost of £1 per month you will be allocated one number in each month’s draw. The cost is payable by the 15th of the month for entry into that month’s draw. Full rules and a registration form can be found at www.ftncoalville.org/foftnc/ See their Facebook page for more information.
Loughborough Santa Run
Taking place on Sunday 4th December, this festive event organised by Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People is perfect for the whole family… whether you want to hop, skip, dance or run the route “yule” be sure to have lots of fantastic festive fun. Everyone who signs up to take part will also receive their very own Santa suit. You’ll also receive a finishers medal once you’ve crossed the finish line of the 5km route. Tickets cost £12.50 for adults, £5 for under 14s. Register today at www.rainbows.co.uk/fundraise/ events/loughboroughsanta
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As we move firmly into Autumn, we hope you’re enjoying the seasonal changes as much as we are, with the sight of gorgeous golden leaves to cherish. Recently we have been working in places such as Swadlincote Woods to maintain open glades, which are important habitats for wildlife like butterflies. Over the next couple of months we have volunteer days lined up at some brilliant community nature reserves and new volunteers are most welcome to join in. Here’s just some of what we have lined up:
On Saturday 5th and Tuesday 8th November we will be at Whistlewood Common near Melbourne to lay a section of hedge, which is a traditional way of managing hedgerows as boundaries and habitats, notably for hedgehogs. This is something we’re especially looking forward to, as Whistlewood Common is an excellent community project and we’ll be working in partnership with CPRE Derbyshire who are campaigning for more hedgerows to help tackle the climate crisis.
On Saturday 26th November and Saturday 3rd December we’ll be planting a new hedgerow
at Albert Village Allotments near Swadlincote and starting in November we will be running community wood-fuel days at Bagworth Heath and Donington le Heath, which everyone is most welcome to come to. You’ll learn about woodland management and can take away logs for your wood burners afterwards. It’s a win-win.
Find us on social media to stay updated; our tags are @ TCVNationalForest (Facebook), @TCV_NationalForest (Instagram) or @TCV_Nat_Forest (Twitter). You can also email jack.riggall@tcv.org.uk with any questions about how to get involved.
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