February 2016 - Ashby & Measham Community Eye

ASHBY & MEASHAM

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COMMUNITY EYE

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IN THE GARDEN WITH BEL

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

CELEBRATING ITS FIRST YEAR!

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MEASHAM MUSEUM

Solve The Anagrams Of The Old Local Language

STORER FAMILY

Are Any Descendants Of The Storer Family Still Living In Packington/Ashby?

THEY’RE BACK

First Winner Of The Reading Resolution At Ashby Library

Ashby Civic Society Design Awards

ASHBY SCHOOL

Mary Smith Fund Hits 80!

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LOCAL NEWS

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A Century of Stories is a Heritage Lottery funded project which works with groups and individuals all over Leicestershire with the aim of helping them discover and share their connection to WW1. The Charnwood Allies are a community group supported

by Leicestershire Adult Learning Service based at Loughborough Library, learning about WW1 with a focus on the Zeppelin Raids.

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on 31st January 1916, the group remembered the fallen by visiting each of the bomb sites hit by the Zeppelins in Loughborough.

Using the materials provided by the project and inspired by the events that took place on that fateful night, the group created clay model before and afters of the bomb sites.

Their work is now proudly on display at Charnwood Museum, Loughborough, from January 21st until March 20th 2016

– the exhibition is free and we encourage everyone to come and see it!

To read more about the project and how people all over Leicestershire have been discovering their connections so far, please visit www. centuryofstories.org.uk or to get in touch to see how you can discover yours, please email centuryofstories@leics.gov.uk

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LOCAL NEWS

‘Have A Go’ To Find Out What Lies Beneath The Bath Grounds

Anyone can take part in this exciting free opportunity to ‘have a go’ at archaeology on the Bath Grounds, focusing on an area of former castle fish ponds and drainage channels. Learn how to carry out geophysical and topographic surveys and then have a go yourself and you might just find those buried archaeological remains!

There will be lots of 2½ hour sessions, morning, afternoon or evening to choose from during three weeks of archaeological activities. Just come along for one session and see how you get on. You can always sign up for more if you like it – most people do! Each week concentrates on a different technique.

17th to 21st May

Will concentrate on resistance surveys, detecting and mapping high and low resistance underground anomalies which may relate to buried artefacts

21st to 25th June

Will concentrate on magnetometer surveys, detecting variations in the earth’s magnetic field in the ground to map archaeological features below the surface

20th to 23rd July

Will concentrate on topographic surveys, using GPS and optical survey equipment to highlight features not visible to the naked eye All the weeks will be organised and supervised by professional archaeologists. There is no need for any prior knowledge of archaeology. If you want to know more, why not come along to an introductory talk on Tuesday 22nd March, 7.30pm at Ashby Museum.

You’ll get a chance to find out more about what is going on and also meet those professionals.

It would really help if you could let us know if you’re coming along to the introductory talk or would be interested in one of the sessions on the Bath Grounds during the Summer. You can sign up at www. bathgroundspath.com email us on bathgroundsfriends@gmail.com or phone 07850 053243

The Museum is looking forward to playing its part in the Bath Grounds celebrations during the coming year. The updated guidebook is now finished and ready for publication and the Education Boxes are being compiled. An updated edition of the Guide to Grace Dieu Priory is also being published by the Museum, in partnership with the Friends of Grace Dieu Priory.

The temporary exhibition on LOUNT will run from March to the end of April. Apologies to any visitor coming to view it in February, but the delay was unavoidable.

This display will be followed by one on the Ashby & Burton Light Railway (Tram), which will complement a book on the subject published by the Museum and compiled by Keith Gilliver. Later in the year there will be a two month exhibition on Gunther Pluschow, the only German to escape from a Prisoner of War camp (Donington) back to Germany during the Great War. More details on the above exhibitions, and the Museum's involvement in the National Archaeology annual series of events in Leicestershire, will follow in future editions of Community Eye. The new volunteers, who have joined in the last couple of months, have settled in and are proving invaluable to our cataloguing and front of house duties. We are always keen to welcome more volunteers - please contact the Museum if interested.

Advance notice is given for the next course of Peter Liddle’s successful talks to take place in April and May. The Archaeology of Leicestershire in 6 Projects Ashby Museum, North Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 1HU Tuesdays at 2pm from April 12th to May 17th

A series of 6 lectures showing how key archaeological projects have thrown huge light on the archaeology of Leicester and Leicestershire. Peter Liddle MBE – former County Archaeologist for Leicestershire – has 45 years experience in Leicestershire Archaeology and has worked on or been closely involved with many of these projects.

April 12th:The Medbourne Survey April 19th:Burrough Hill April 26th:The Hallaton Treasure May 3rd: Highcross Shopping Centre, May 10th:Leicester Abbey May 17th:Bradgate Park Price: £30 for the series or £6 per lecture.

To book your place e-mail peter. liddle51@gmail.com or phone (0116) 2214508 or 07758194353 The Kids Club on the 5th March is called the Young Historian and will involve investigations of people and places from the past. Find out about the history beneath your feet, and handle artifacts from the past with a chance to do your own archaeological investigations.11am till 4pm. Open to all children of primary school age.

There will be a talk at the museum on Wednesday 16th March at 2 p.m. on Cycle Lamps, given by Trevor Stewart. The cost is £3 to include refreshments.

Friends of Ashby Museum The Friends of Ashby Museum are planning several events this year. Talks in mid March, May and September, the Ian Clews Memorial Quiz in October and afternoon looking at some of the material kept in the museum archives and not normally on show. Further details and dates will be on the museum website, Facebook page and on posters around the town as well as here in the Community Eye.

Friends Of Ashby Bath Grounds Don’t forget the other community activities happening in and around the Bath Grounds this Summer: Community Mosaics – 29th May Talks on the history of the Bath Grounds and Guided Walks around the Bath Grounds – 23rd April and 14th June The Ballad of the Bath Grounds performance – 29th May Premiere of ‘Polkas and Pustules’, a short, dramatic film about the Ivanhoe Spa – 28th May Lots more details on the website www.bathgroundspath.com

They’re Back !

Ashby Civic Society Design Awards Nominate YOUR favourites new building or restored building or environment improvement Let’s promote good building design and civic pride. Entry forms from Tourist Information Centre at Library, North Street. Visit our website : ashbydelazouchcivicsociety.webs. com Closing date Saturday 2nd April

Home-Start North West Leicestershire Home-Start NWL offers support, friendship and practical help to parents with young children in the local communities. We recruit and train volunteers to visit families at home who have at least one child under 5 and offer informal, friendly and confidential support.

As part of our funding strategy in February 2015 we moved our office base and opened a charity shop in Rushton’s Yard, Ashby.

This venture has enabled us to support an additional 30 local families throughout the year. We are also pleased that local MP Andrew Bridgen will be here on Friday 4th March between 1.30pm and 2pm to help celebrate our 1st birthday and re launch.

We also have lots of volunteering opportunities for parents – through our Ready for School home visiting project funded via the Big Lottery, in our crèches or our shop. Please pop in or call 01530 411121 We look forward to helping you make a difference in your local area.

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LOCAL NEWS

Kats Antique Vintage & Collectables Celebrates Its First Year!

Here at kats Antique Vintage and Collectables we are celebrating our first year in our new premises.

On the 20th of February, come along and see us for a range of offers across our 2 floor centre for customers old and new.

Venture Theatre News Update

A family run business, we have a wealth of experience in all aspects of antiques, collectables, jewellery and hand painted furniture.

Running the theatre, and putting on a production, involves a whole lot of teamwork, both on stage, behind the scenes and front of house. But it would all be a waste of effort if there was no audience – and that’s where our publicity team come in!

Letting people know what’s on at the theatre is probably one of the most difficult things to do.

How often do we hear people say “Oh I didn’t know that was on,” after a play has finished?

Yet we do our best to use every means possible to advertise all our events. The Ashby Tourist Information Centre does a great job distributing posters and flyers as well as talking to people who come in to the TIC. They also have an emailing list to let people know what is going on in and around Ashby, so if you are not on it, give them your email address straight away. Jim Joyce, one of our team members also spends a lot of time taking posters and flyers round to surrounding villages as well as shops and other places in town.

But in this digital day and age that’s not enough! We also make good use of social media – please “Like” us on Facebook (Venture Theatre Ashby) or follow us on Twitter (@VentureTheatre) and, of course, we have our own website: ashbyventuretheatre.org.uk.

We also try to appear in local publications such as this and Directors, and perhaps a member of the cast will usually be interviewed on Hermitage FM Radio and BBC Radio Leicester whenever a play is coming up.

Of course, all this takes team work to achieve and if you are thinking of becoming a member of the theatre, and think you could help, then you will be made very welcome. Club nights are every Monday (except Bank Holidays) from 8.30 pm. Pop in and meet us!

We offer a home visit service to value and buy your items.

So come and see us at 50 High Street, Coalville, LE67 3EE Open every day 10am - 4pm Call us on 07792974309

Mary Smith Fund Hits 80!

A fund set up to help young people from Ashby to fulfil their dreams is celebrating its 80th anniversary - and is still looking for applicants. The Mary Smith Fund, which was set up in 1936, is open to current and former students of Ashby School and Ivanhoe College to further their career or educational aspirations.

Visit To Century Cinema, Snibston Ashby Civic society were ‘rent a crowd’ this month at Centruy Cinema, Snibston. We enjoyed a back stage tour, Speaker, film shows and delicious cakes making it one of our best afternoon visits. We welcomed the opportunity to help support this unique, active cinema which is part of our local heritage.

Volunteers from the cinema are always pleased to give group talks to help support their future.

Another unusual event next month when Ashby Civic Society will be dressing Richard III with the help

Lydia Gibson was one of the students to benefit from the fund in 2015, after applying for help to take part in a voluntary project overseas. Lydia travelled to Zambia where she worked as a school PE teacher and netball coach for the IDEALS Zambia project. of a surprise TV personality. Also, as usual we’ll keep you up to date with planning issues and changes to the town.

Others received funds towards music fees, Scouting expeditions and essential equipment, including a sewing machine for a budding tailor and wicket keeping gloves for a promising cricketer.

See our website www. ashbydelazouchcivicsociety.webs. com or just come along at 7.45 to Legion House, South Street on Tuesday 8th March. You’re bound to meet someone you already know.

Every year, the scheme helps students and ex-students to fund a range of projects, from sport, dance and musical opportunities to educational trips and careerrelated experiences.

The fund is open to former students under the age of 25 who need help to continue their studies or to further their career ambitions. Applications for this year’s fund must be received by Friday 4th March 2016.

Application forms can be downloaded from the school website at www.ashbyschool.org.uk

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All gold and sliver including antique and modern jewellery also scrap and broken items costume jewellery all coins single or collections British or foreign militaria and medals single or groups British or world stamps, watches, silver plate and all interesting antiques, collectables & furniture. We pay the highest prices in the area.

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The Heart of England Chorus based in Birstall, Leicester are seeking a new Musical Director with a strong musical background either male or female who will be able to develop our singing and performance.

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The club rehearses on Monday nights at the Birstall Social Club LE4 4JS

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LRWT NORTH WEST GROUP

We are a friendly group which meets monthly for talks, visits, conservation work and social events.

All talks are in the church hall of Ashby Methodist Chapel, Burton Road, and begin at 7-30, entry is £2 each

David Maltby on 01530 222934 Margaret Mabey on 01530 412410 March 26th Guided visit to Jubilee Wood with Gerald Price Come to explore this rapidly developing new plantation in spring.

Meet at 2-00 p.m in the car park between Normanton and Heather G.R. 385115

April 22nd Nigel Slater explains the mystery of bird migration.

He returns to bring us up to date with the latest news and shows how modern technology is reshaping our understanding of migration.

April 23rd Visit to Stoneywell gardens.

Carl Hawke of the National Trust helps us discover the typical habitat and fauna of Charnwood Forest in the garden of this latest N.T. acquisition. Meet in car park on Whitcrofts Lane at 2pm. G.R.485119

May 14th Kelham Bridge Reserve visit with Baz Forgham

See and hear recently arrived spring migrants-sedge and reed warblers etc, perhaps even bittern in this well established marsh and wetland reserve. Meet 09-00 a.m. at entrance gate on A447 between Ravenstone and Ibstock grid ref 407120 near Sence Valley Forest Park.

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LOCAL LOCAL NEWS NEWS

MEASHAM MUSEUM QUIZ

The Museum has reopened and is looking forward to a busy NEW YEAR. A little change from the usual questions this month.

Have a little laugh!

Are you or anyone in your family familiar with some of the old ‘local language’ Sorate f’sumyer ...................................................................................

Arn gorra peen inmi yed ....................................................................

Ojer .......................................................................................................

Ayup ya neely itta buzz ......................................................................

Orate,evvit yerrown rode ...................................................................

Yer canna sayerand in frontoya .........................................................

Slovly dee ............................................................................................

The Museum is open Tuesday: 10.00 - 12.00am & 2.00pm - 4.00pm Thursday: 2.00pm - 4.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 12.00am & 2.00pm - 4.00pm

Whernyabin .........................................................................................

Entry is £1 per person, children free with Adult.

............................................................

FRIENDS of Measham Museum MEMBERSHIP is £5.00 per family per year, entry free as many times as you want during the year.

COME AND SEE US TO FIND THE ANSWERS and many more in our memories in the Museum

PHOTO: A family home, a tea factory.

A transport factory, now what?

NAME: ADDRESS: AGE:

SEND ENTRY TO: Measham Museum, The Old Railway Station, Off Mannings Terrace, High Street, Measham, DE12 7HU

Are Any Descendants Of The Storer Family Still Living In Packington/Ashby? churchyard. Sadly, many gravestones have been taken up and placed against the boundary wall but I can find no Storers amongst them.

My Mother was Betty Storer b.Boundary 1912 the daughter of John Storer b.1880 Blackfordby and Sarah Emma Harrison b.1885 Boundary.

ISSUE 54 SEPTEMBER 2015

COALVILLE

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ISSUE 5 - AUG/SEP 2015

WORLD HEART DAY

Tuesday 29th September Article By Katie At Fox Medics

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Garden Design Review

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EASTENDERS STAR RAKHEE THAKRAR

For more information please call Ashby Library on: 0116 3055917 or email: ashbydelazouchlibrary@ leics.gov.uk

WORLD HEART DAY

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ASHBY & PACKINGTON

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ISSUE 22 - AUGUST 2015

Tuesday 29th September Article By Katie At Fox Medics

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Tuesday 29th September Article By Katie At Fox Medics

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ISSUE 41 SEPTEMBER 2015

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Val Roberts 01332-518495 Email valroberts47@yahoo.co.uk

IEN PER CED EX

1

SHEPSHED

Oliver’s name was successfully drawn from the box on February 1st and he received the £30 Tesco shopping vouchers.

I am writing to ask if there are any descendants of the Storer family still living in Packington/Ashby.

I would dearly love to find old photographs of my ancestors and any information relating to them.

I have found one gravestone of a Gt.Gt.Aunt, Hannah Storer d.1881, daughter of Benjamin and Catherine, in Holy Rood

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Congratulations to Oliver Stenhouse, the first winner of the Reading Resolution Prize Draw at Ashby Library.

IENCED PER EX

I am researching my Storer family who, in the main, came from Packington. I have records going back to the 1700's for baptisms, marriage and funerals at The Holy Rood Church in Packington.

My Gt.Gt.Grandfather Benjamin Storer lived in Back Lane, now Normanton Road, Packington in the 1861 Census. I understand a portion of land on this road was called 'Storer's Corner'. I believe Benjamin Storer and his wife Catherine Freeman lived in an old thatched cottage on this site, sadly now demolished. The Storers of Packington were carpenters.

First Winner Of The Reading Resolution At Ashby Library

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10

LOCAL NEWS

Ashby’s Rotary Clubs Raise Over £14000 On Santa Sleigh

Award Winning Heritage Trust Seeks Secretary Swannington Heritage Trust has won many awards for restoring Hough Mill and its 10 acres of former coal mining and railway sites. The Trust opens the mill 50 times a year to the 1,500 members of the public and community groups who are excited by its transformation from a derelict shell to thriving heritage centre. Some 13,000 walkers enjoy the former industrial sites that are now managed as woodland and grass heathland.

Thanks to the generous donations received from the families and individuals of Ashby de la Zouch and surrounding villages, the Santa Sleigh runs operated by the three Ashby Rotary Clubs have raised an astonishing amount of money in the run up to Christmas. Over £14000 has been collected to be donated between the three main chosen charities along with other charities supported by Rotary.

The three clubs in Ashby who operate the Santa Sleigh runs in partnership have held their annual cheque presentation night to donate the monies raised.

Over 60 Rotarians and partners attended the annual evening at Willesley Golf Club along with representatives from the three organisations receiving cheques.

The money was collected as Santa was escorted around North West Leicestershire and South Derbyshire by the Rotary Clubs with the sleigh out in all weathers on most evenings throughout December, also appearing at local supermarkets and special events such as the Measham Christmas light switch on and Ashby Christmas market. The sleigh runs continue to be popular with old and young alike and despite being very much a community event more than a fund raising exercise, the generosity of local people to make donations is astounding.

In advance of the collections each Rotary club choose a main beneficiary to receive the majority of the donations with this years recipients being STEPS in Shepshed (providing support and specialist services to children with motor disorders), HomeStart (providing support to families who need it) and DEBRA (providing support to families affected by EB, a group of genetic skin conditions). The collections have enabled £4500 to be donated to both HomeStart and DEBRA with £4000 being donated to STEPS. Any remaining monies will be distributed to other charities supported by Rotary. All recipients expressed surprise and gratitude for the amount of money received which was far in excess of what they were expecting and could only have been possible by the fantastic support given by local people.

Ray Harriman, President of Ashby Castle Rotary Club said “This has been a fantastic evening and the reactions of the charities when they were given the cheques was amazing. Once again the three Rotary Clubs are extremely grateful for the generosity demonstrated by the public, resulting in another bumper year for the collection. The three clubs are justly proud of working together to generate funds which will make a real difference to the charities chosen”.

The Trust has a thriving group of volunteers that carry out the building maintenance and land management activities (although a couple more would always be advantageous). However a review of Trust activities has highlighted that we are particularly short of administrative support; people who realise that the effective use of a laptop, software and ring

binder can be as valuable as a skilled craftsman.

Our prime recruitment target is for a Secretary to issue the agendas for our bi-monthly Management Committee meetings, write the minutes, file key documents to ensure that they are available for use and generally assist with the administration of the Trust.

The role would suit someone with good administrative and IT skills who works well with others; perhaps someone who uses these skills for a living or who has retired.

To find out more about our volunteer roles, contact us for an informal discussion - email chairman@swannington-heritage. co.uk or telephone 01530 222 833. More information about the Trust can be viewed on our website www.swanningtonheritage.co.uk or Hough Mill Facebook page.

Hough Mill reopens for the summer on Easter Sunday.

DID YOU KNOW? - Despite the terrible nature of and damage

caused by the 1666 Great Fire of London, only 8 people were killed.

This is despite the fire destroying at least 13,500 houses.

Retirement Of Brain Vollar As Chairmen Of The Friends Of Snibston Since 2013 Brian Vollar has been the Chairman of the Friends of Snibston. During those 3 years he demonstrated his skill at leadership of the Friends of Snibston and the campaign to save Snibston Museum.

The campaign has been very onerous and difficult but Brian has lead it with decorum, skill and a clarity of vision and achievement. Sadly the campaign was not successful, which was not a reflection of his

ability or dedication, but rather the intransigence and predetermination of the County Council.

In view of the hard work, dedication and commitment to the Friends, Snibston Museum and people of Coalville the Friends of Snibston will be presenting Brain with commemorative miners lamp in acknowledgement of his work and leadership. Their was a presentation which was held at the Coalville Constitutional Club, on Friday 22nd January.

DID YOU KNOW? - The Anglo-Zanzibar war of 1896 is the shortest war on record lasting an exhausting 38 minutes.

GARDENING

11

Choosing Healthy Plants

Crocus

Primula

Spring is on its way I’m glad to say. With having had such a mild winter the daffodils and crocuses have been flowering early and the cherry blossom has been colouring up hedgerows and gardens already. At the first signs of spring and buds forming, we all get the urge to pop along to our local garden centre or nursery to pick up a few items to add colour to the garden for the year.

In the 16 years I’ve been involved in the horticultural trade I have seen garden centres change dramatically. Selling plants is a tricky business and steadily the larger garden centres have reduced the range of live products they sell in favour of more profitable non-perishable sundries, coffee and cake! Few grow their own plants anymore and as a result it can be difficult to find a knowledgeable member of staff who has actually had their hands dirty growing the plants they sell!

Many of the plants sold are classed as ‘impulse sales’ – sold in flower as an impulse purchase within a week or so. Although they are generally good quality plants they can be a short term splash of colour and soon deteriorate or die. If you are looking for plants which will look good for a long period, will thrive

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Bel Grierson

Garden Designer & Plantswoman

and give you pleasure for years to come I urge you to seek out a nursery or grower /garden centre run there are several good ones to choose from in our area.

4. Reject any plants which have weeds in the pots. There could be weed seed in the surface of the compost too which will take over when planted in the garden.

Once you’ve found a good supplier or even if you are looking at plants in a larger garden centre there are a few tips to finding and selecting a healthy happy plant which will look good for longer than a week or two:

5. Buy plants in season - buying tender bedding and vegetable plants when it’s still frosty outside isn’t wise unless you have a heated greenhouse to keep them in. If the nursery or garden centre has the plants under cover then it’s likely that’s where they need to be so don’t be too eager to plant them out if it’s still cold outside.

1. Look for well branched plants with multiple stems and a sturdy frame. Reject anything long, lanky or flopping around in the pot.

Choose symmetrical plants which are sitting upright in their pots.

2. Avoid plants with mottled or streaked patchy leaves. Pale patches between leaf veins can indicate the plant is lacking nutrients or has a virus. Unless you are looking to buy a variegated or purple leaved plant, always choose plants with healthy dark green foliage.

3. Have a look underneath at the base of the pot, it’s a good sign to see a few small hair like roots peeking out of the drainage holes, if there are huge roots busting out of the pot then the plant is pot bound and could struggle to establish.

belgriersondesign info@belgrierson.co.uk

Grand Central Chorus invites you to...

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MC: The one and only Len Matthews

Tagline 2015 BABS Quartet Champions

Hannah and the Hurricanes 2015 UK Mixed Quartet Champions

Yesteryear As seen on BBC 2 “Naked Choir” with Gareth Malone

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6. Select the right plant for the right place. Most plants have a range of conditions that suit them best whether that be sunny, shady, moist or dry. Staff should be able to help you chose and the plant labels will have some guidance too.

Keeping these few tips in mind when choosing plants will help you buy healthy happy plants which will survive and thrive in your garden. Next month I’ll be looking at how to make the most of the front garden, large or small – adding colour and interest with minimal maintenance.

www.belgrierson.co.uk 07506750250

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Please send articles to: communityeye@ openboxpromotions.co.uk

12

LOCAL NEWS

Andrew Bridgen MP Welcomes The Secretary Of State For Education To Forest Lodge In Moira

PHOTO: Karen Hale, Manager (left of Secretary of State), teaching and support staff, Andrew Bridgen, MP for North West Leicestershire and the Secretary of State for Education Nicky Morgan MP Local MP Andrew Bridgen and the Secretary of State for Education Nicky Morgan visited Forest Lodge in Moira which offers a range of programmes to tackle the root causes of learning issues amongst 11-16yr olds.

Forest Lodge provides full day sessions for pupils who are struggling to access or cope with mainstream education and offers a range of inventions for pupils with dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, autism and anxiety disorders.

Andrew Bridgen MP said “I invited the Secretary of State to visit Forest Lodge to see for herself what a fantastic therapeutic centre it is. When I first visited I was astounded by the positive outcomes the staff at Forest Lodge achieve. The blend of sensory integration programmes, movement programmes, variety of holistic treatments as well as English and Maths catch up sessions really do target the developmental levels of a child. I would urge any parent who feels their child needs extra support or an alternative provision to get in touch.”

Rt Hon Nicky Morgan MP "I was very grateful to Karen for her time.

We had a good discussion about the needs of children with autism and it was fascinating to hear about the work of Forest Lodge and a pleasure to meet some of their students."

Karen, Manager of Forest Lodge "We were very excited to welcome our local MP Andrew Bridgen and the Secretary of State to Forest Lodge. It provided us with an opportunity to showcase our therapeutic Educational provision that promotes a highly nurturing, child centred approach to help children make progress emotionally, socially and academically. We offer a home from home environment and this formula seems to work with students with high anxiety or those diagnosed with ASD, ADHD and other complex conditions.

These are the students who cannot cope with the sensory overload of a busy mainstream school and get overwhelmed."

For more information www.learn-at-the-lodge.co.uk

Full Steam Ahead For Loros!

Saturday 12th March 2016 - 9.30am Start

What do you get if you combine an exciting trip on the Great Central Railway, a beautiful countryside walk and raising money for your local Hospice? Full Steam Ahead for LOROS, of course.

LOROS has teamed up with The Great Central Railway for an event which gives supporters the chance to raise money while enjoying a trip on a steam train.

The event, which will be taking place on Saturday 12th March, will see participants take part in a fivemile walk across Leicestershire countryside, before boarding the LOROS Express.

The walk will start at Quorn and Woodhouse Station, before supporters head cross country through the villages of Old Woodhouse and through private land around Swithland Reservoir, leading through to the beautifully nostalgic old station at Rothley.

From there, participants will jump on board the Great Central Railway, on which they will be taken back to Quorn where they can enjoy a complimentary hogroast at the The Manor House pub.

Events Lead at LOROS Laura Betts said “This is a charity walk with a difference and everyone is really excited about it. The Great Central Railway and LOROS both play huge parts within Leicestershire

community, so this is a really lovely way to bring both organisations together and allow the public to see a little glimpse of the great work we both do.”

The event is family friendly, with entertainment at both stations and the Station Master has granted special permission to allow dogs on the day too.

General Manager of Great Central Railway, Richard Patching said “We are delighted to be working alongside such a worthwhile charity supporting young adults and families within our county and community. We truly hope the event is a success for all concerned and that the Great Central Railway continues to strengthen their relationships with LOROS for the long term future. Families and individuals can get involved by joining us on the day and enjoying a train ride alongside a lovely countryside walk through our beautiful Charnwood countryside, whilst supporting this charity, which is so crucial to many.”

Full Steam Ahead for LOROS begins at 9.30am, with tickets costing £18 for adults, £12 for under 12’s and free for under 3’s.

Tickets are limited so booking ahead is advised.

For more details and to book please visit loros.co.uk/steam or call (0116) 231 8431/2

Council Launches Duty Of Care Fly-Tipping Campaign ‘Dispose of your waste properly or face an unlimited fine’ is the message coming from a local council as it steps up its fight against fly-tipping. North West Leicestershire District Council launched its new fly-tipping campaign this week at Buildbase in Hugglescote to highlight the responsibility that businesses have to dispose of their waste properly The aim of the campaign is: To ensure businesses are aware of how to dispose of their waste correctly and what not to do

To highlight the serious consequences for people and businesses using unauthorised ways of disposing of their waste.

There are simple checks that can be made to ensure the person disposing of the waste is actually authorised to do so by checking with the Environment Agency www.environment–agency.gov. uk or call 03708 506506. Those using other means such as paying an unauthorised person to take their waste away can be fined an unlimited amount and even face jail time.

Councillor Alison Smith MBE, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Community Services at North West Leicestershire District Council, said “Fly-tipping is a problem plaguing the nation and it is one I cannot stand. It is simple enough to dispose of your waste correctly and safely and there is no excuse for the scenes our officers are faced with when called to one of these sites. We have a very clear and strong stand point; if we catch you fly-tipping we will prosecute and seek the maximum penalty. Be aware.”

For more information of fly-tips and how to report one visit - www. nwleics.gov.uk/refuse_flytipping

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13

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14

LOCAL NEWS

COUNTY COUNCILLOR

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

M: 07429055402 E: Sean.Sheahan@leics.gov.uk

M: 01530 417736 E: andrew.bridgen.mp@parliament.uk

SEAN SHEAHAN

Measham South by-election

First of all, I would like to thank to all the electors of Measham South for their support in the recent council by-election. I am looking forward to representing Measham residents on North West Leicestershire District Council and with me now being both a district and county councillor, I shall be able to tackle a more comprehensive range of local government issues. During the by-election, one of the issues that was raised time and again by residents was the new wind turbine at Barns Heath Farm in Appleby Magna. Six metres taller than Big Ben, it is visible all over Measham, however Measham councillors were not formally notified of the planning application and only residents living on or close to the poets’ estate were written to.

Furthermore, I was concerned to be told by many of those people that they never received a letter.

As a result, very few people objected and planning permission was granted without it even being referred to the planning committee. It’s quite shocking that a development with such an obvious impact on the local landscape can slip through the system like this.

Planning is supposed to achieve a balance between the aspirations of developers and the concerns of local residents. The way this wind turbine application was handled might suggest some changes are called for so that residents can have more of a say in matters that affect them. Yet on the contrary, since this turbine application was passed, the balance has swung even further in favour of developers.

North West Leicestershire District Council has amended its constitution to take away the right of councillors in neighbouring wards to call in a planning application for debate at planning committee, even if – like with this turbine, it has an obvious impact on their area. This is something in the coming months I will endeavour to change, whilst at the same time demanding a fairer system of consultation for larger developments.

Atherstone Road, new housing development

A fair few issues have cropped up over the new development at the far end of Atherstone Road, Measham. I have had to deal with mud on the road, contractors vehicles parked on Byron Crescent too close to the junction and lorries travelling through the village.

Thanks to the help of the local police, Measham Parish Council,

ANDREW BRIDGEN County Highways and the local site manager, all of these issues are being addressed, although I expect we shall all need to keep an eye on things.

At the time when this development was granted planning permission, I was successful in obtaining agreement for three sets of speed bumps on Atherstone Road, instead of the two that were offered. These will go some way to mitigating the effect of extra cars from the estate when it is built, as well as helping with the long standing speeding problems along Atherstone Road. I was pleased to take part in a site meeting last month to help decide the best location for the new speed bumps and following on from that, nearby residents will be consulted via letter from County Highways before a final decision is taken.

Other highways’ news

The Highways Forum meets this month to consider officers’ recommendations on a petition calling for traffic calming on Widgeon Drive. Although there are safety improvements being offered by way of ‘give way’ markings on the various side roads off Widgeon Drive, there is no money on the table for speed bumps. However, County Highways will support a scheme if third party funding can be obtained. I have written to Measham Parish Council suggesting we look at what potential sources of funds are available.

Also this month, I am collecting signatures for a petition to improve road safety at Five Lanes End junction, on the Ashby Road just outside of Measham, where a nearby resident is demanding action to slow traffic and reduce the risk of accidents at the junction.

Measham Library

An important decision is due in March on the future of 36 Leicestershire libraries, including Measham. According to the Council’s Administration, the future of our library lies in the hands of volunteers. I have long been sceptical about whether Measham has the capacity sustain a library on this basis. Questions remain to be answered and I have called an extra meeting of Adults and Communities Scrutiny Committee on 26th February, prior to the Administration taking its decision. It’s rather doubtful whether the Administration will change it’s mind, but I hope to be able to do as much as possible through Scrutiny to safeguard the future of Measham’s Library and many others.

It has been a busy start to the year in Parliament as I and my colleagues continue our campaign for a fairer funding settlement for Leicestershire.

For many years we have been one of the lowest funded local authorities in the Country. Due to this our local services have had to be run in an extremely efficient way, and whilst I believe there has to be spending restraint within local government as we try to balance the nations book, it is my and my Leicestershire colleagues argument that we have less fat to cut because of our historically low funding settlements, and there are fewer efficiencies available to our county than might be available to other local authorities. It is a fact that urban authorities receive an extra 45% in funding compared to rural ones such as North West Leicestershire and I and my Parliamentary colleagues have put these points in the strongest possible manner to the Government, and I am hopeful that the Secretary of State has listened to our argument and taken our points on board.

I was very pleased the visit and endorse. However, we cannot afford to be complacent as we are part of a global economy and there is concerning economic news from China, Russia and Brazil, which is why it is so important that we stick to our long term economic plan to balance the nation’s books and rebalance the UK economy.

One area we are certainly not falling behind in is our employment statistics. Last month claimant count unemployment dropped below 500 and stands at just 1% compared to a national rate of 2.4%. We are continuing to enjoy a period of rapid economic growth in the District with companies keen to invest in the area and its workforce and this in itself is a terrific vote of confidence in the people of North West Leicestershire. Indeed I was able to raise the point in Prime Minister’s questions recently citing the 350 job opportunities that were available at a jobs fair at East Midlands Airport which

I particularly think this is important given the fact the Leicestershire County Council have stated they cannot provide a mining museum in Coalville. It is a decision that has greatly disappointed me especially as one of my grandfathers was a coal miner and I am anxious that as many items of local historic significance and be retained in the town and district. I will be meeting the leader of the County Council to discuss some ideas around how to do this and see what options there are for future generations to appreciate the industries that our area was built upon.

Whilst our main economic sector in the district is distribution, we also have a growing leisure sector and I had a very positive meeting with DEFRA Minister Rory Stewart a couple of weeks ago about extending the Ashby Canal into Measham to link up the proposed Measham Wharf development with the national network. You only have to look at the success of the waterside developments further down the canal in Bosworth to appreciate the positive economic impact this could have on Measham and surrounding villages, and I will now be working with Leicestershire County Council and the Canal and River Trust to see if we can make this vision a reality.

A Grand Celebration – 25 Years Of Harmony At Derby Theatre on Sunday 17th April 2016 4.30pm

Grand Central Chorus – 5 times UK Barbershop Champions, are hosting a major show to celebrate their 25th Anniversary on Sunday 17th April 2016 at Derby Theatre.

This spectacular event will showcase the very best of UK Barbershop and follows on from their sell-out show in Derby last April.

It will also be a first opportunity to see this outstanding men’s harmony chorus perform the

songs they will be singing at the 2016 UK Championships – and well as many others from their current repertoire.

Guests include: Tagline – 2015 UK Quartet Champions, Hannah and the Hurricanes – 2015 UK Mixed Quartet Champions and YesterYear – as seen on Gareth Malone’s “Naked Choir” on BBC2 Tickets £15 (Under 12’s £10) are available from the Theatre Box Office 01332 593939 online from the theatre’s website www.derbytheatre.co.uk or from any chorus member.

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Great British Fish And Chip Supper Friday 20th May Want to eat Fish and Chips, while raising money for charity? Hold a fish and chip supper on Friday 20th May 2016 whilst raising awareness of spinal cord injury and supporting SIA’s vital services.

You can hold a fish and chip supper in your own home, at work or hold a larger supper at your local community centre.

SIA will provide a fundraising pack containing hints and tips, recipes, invitations and donation envelopes. By inviting 8 friends and asking them to donate an additional £5.00 means you will raise at least £40.00 from your supper but we will also give you additional fundraising ideas to raise even more money for SIA. Just £50 could contribute towards the support from our Peer Support Service for one hour, in a district general hospital or Major Trauma Centre.

In 2016 we want to make the batter matter and raise £40,000 from everyone holding suppers.

Last year we raised £12,000 from the suppers.

The money raised from the suppers will help the Spinal Injuries Association offer support to individuals who become paralysed and their families, from the moment a spinal injury occurs, and for the rest of their lives by providing services and publications which enable and encourage paralysed people to rebuild lives after spinal cord injury.

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Spina porting

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Every year in the UK over 1,000 people experience a spinal cord injury and there are an estimated 40,000 spinal cord injured people in the UK alone.

Community Fundraising Manager, Elizabeth Wright, says, “The Fish and Chip Supper is a wonderful opportunity for a great evening with friends and family. We are also encouraging people who work to hold a Fish and Chip Lunch in their work places to raise even more funds. You may be even a local community group wanting to run a fun evening with your group."

For more information or request a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright on 0845 071 4350 or email fundraising@siafishandchips.co.uk or visit www.siafishandchips.co.uk

Make the batt

er matter

Hold a Great Bri tish Fish and Ch ip Supper to help rebuild lives aft er spinal cord inj ury.

To request a fun draising pack: Call 01908 2085 41 Email fundraisin g@siafishandc hips.co.uk Visit www.siafish andchips.co.u k Registere d Charity No 1054

097

for raise money Have fun and

the SIA

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