March 2017 - Ashby & Measham Community Eye

ASHBY & MEASHAM

COMMUNITY EYE

DELIVERED MONTHLY FREE TO 7000 HOMES & BUSINESSES

MARCH 2017

WIN

A Champagne Package To See West End Show Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap

IN THE GARDEN WITH BEL

Tackling Weeds

PLANT HUNTERS FAIR

At Donington Le Heath 1620’s House

OLYMPIAN INSPIRES IVANHOE GIRLS Ivanhoe College

FIRST WINNERS OF THE READING RESOLUTION

LOCAL CHARITY ASKS ORGANISATIONS TO RALLY ROUND

Ashby Library

To Build Awareness Of The ‘Invisible’ Disability

A NEW boiler from just * £1,620(inc.

VAT) or £7 per week Includes fitting, up to 10 years warranty, plus a price match guarantee.

Call today for a FREE survey & fixed price quote 0116 287 8000 | www.ukgasservices.co.uk *See website for terms & conditions.

YOUR TRUSTED HOME SERVICE PARTNER Leicestershire’s local installer of boilers & central heating for over 20 years.

5663

2

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

BENEATH THE LIGHTS

DOWNLOAD LATEST SINGLE ON SPOTIFY, ITUNES & BANDCAMP 19th March Soundhouse Leicester 15th Apr stumble Inn Long Eaton 9.00pm 28th April The Shed Leicester 25th 26th 27th May Glastonbudget Wymeswold 14th July Salutation Nottingham 15th July ASHFEST Bowling Green Ashby 1.30pm-10pm 5th August Birstall Gala 1.30pm 12th August Corner Pin Donnington Le Heath 9.15pm 19th August Swan and Rushes Festival 9.30pm 26th August Nedwood Festival Wymeswold 27th Aug BEACONFEST Loughborough 9th Sept Stumble Inn Long Eaton 9.00pm 23rd December Corner Pin Donnington Le Heath 9.15pm www.facebook.com/beneaththelights www.twitter.com/BTLBand1

AUTISM

April Events

Awareness Across Leicestershire

AUTISM Awareness Across Leicestershire

SCHOOLS AUTISM AWARENESS WEEK 27th - 31st March

Raising Autism Awareness

'LIVING WITH AUTISM' Leicestershire Conference Thursday 30th March 9.30AM - 3.30PM

'LIGHT IT UP BLUE' CAMPAIGN 31st March - 2nd April Join us to help raise much needed awareness across Leicestershire

'LIGHT IT UP BLUE' CAMPAIGN 31st March - 2nd April AUTISM CHARITY OPEN EVENT Sunday 2nd April 9am - 5pm GET INVOLVED! BE PART OF OUR CAMPAIGN

'PATHWAY TO ADULTHOOD' Leicestershire Conference Wednesday 26th April 9.30am-2.30pm

For more information please contact marketing@glebehouseproject.org.uK

GET INVOLVED! BE PART OF OUR CAMPAIGN

Charnwood Borough Council Leicestershire County Hall Charnwood Museum Carillion Tower Attenborough Arts Rolls Royce

To find out how you can get involved and be a part of our Autism Awareness campaign please contact marketing@glebehouseproject.org.uk

LOCAL NEWS

Measham Community Library

FRONT COVER PHOTO BY:

Bigstock © _________________________________________

Opening Hours

LIKE & FOLLOW US

Tuesday 10-7pm

 facebook.com/community_eye  twitter.com/community_eye _________________________________________

Thursday 10-1pm Friday 10-5pm

ARTICLES

0800 6446150 communityeye@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Saturday 10-1pm

ADVERTS

Sarah Taylor or Dawn Harris

Amenities: tea, coffee and biscuits the use of computers group activities:

0800 6446150 sarah@openboxpromotions.co.uk dawn@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Local Charity Asks 07504634838 andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk Organisations To Rally Round PUBLISHED BY To Build Awareness Of The Open Box Promotions Ltd 0800 6446150 ‘Invisible’ Disability sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk DISTRIBUTION Andrew Lewis

www.openboxpromotions.co.uk Open Box Promotions Ltd 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, LE9 2HQ _________________________________________

NEXT ISSUE OUT

Deadline Date: 14th April Delivery Date: 28th April Deadline and delivery dates are subject to change on how far ahead or behind we are. _________________________________________

LEAFLET DELIVERY & PRINTING £250 +vat (Per Magazine Area)

LEAFLET DELIVERY ONLY

£175 +vat (Per Magazine Area) _________________________________________

ADVERTISING RATES EIGHTH PAGE

Monthly Rate - £40 +vat Prepay 3 Months - £90 +vat

QUARTER PAGE

Monthly Rate - £70 +vat Prepay 3 Months - £165 +vat

HALF PAGE

Monthly Rate - £120 +vat Prepay 3 Months - £285 +vat

FULL PAGE

Monthly Rate - £225 +vat Prepay 3 Months - £585 +vat

FRONT PAGE STRIP

Monthly Rate - £150 +vat

BACK PAGE

Monthly Rate - £250 +Vat

DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD Monthly Rate - £338 +vat

FULL PAGE ADVERTORIAL Monthly Rate - £180 +vat

HALF PAGE ADVERTORIAL

Monthly Rate £105 +vat _________________________________________

PRINTED BY

Norwood Press

01530 262020 info@norwoodpress.co.uk www.norwoodpress.co.uk Norwood Press, Unit 1, Moore Road, South Leicester Industrial Estate, Ellistown, Leicestershire, LE67 1EU _________________________________________ The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the original advertisers & contributors and do not necessarily represent Community Eye or Open Box Promotions Ltd. Open Box Promotions Ltd reserves the right to amend or refuse to publish articles or adverts submitted for publication. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission.

To see full terms & conditions visit www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/terms

3

Glebe House, a Loughborough based charity, has invited local organisations and charities across Leicestershire to work in partnership to coordinate a range of events and activities to mark World Autism Awareness Week starting from 27th March to 2nd April and then throughout April.

Organisations who have already pledged their support to help raise much needed awareness include Leicestershire County Council, Leicestershire Autistic Society, Autism East Midlands, RNIB College, Homefield College, Charnwood Borough Council, Attenborough Arts but to name a few.

Glebe House Chief Executive, Peter Warlow stated, “Whilst general awareness of autism is much higher in recent times, research shows that there remains a lack of understanding about what it really means to live with autism, not only for the person with autism but also for those who care for them and live with them.“ He went on to say, “Whether it’s at school, within businesses or in social settings, people with autism are still misunderstood. We are asking organisations across Leicestershire, what they are doing to help raise autism awareness.“ Events include a ‘Living with Autism’ Conference on the 30th March hosted by Leicestershire Autistic Society at the NSPCC Training Centre, Leicester, followed by a worldwide initiative to ‘Light up in Blue’ as we countdown to World Autism Awareness Day. A charity event hosted by Fusion Lifestyle Loughborough will celebrate autism within the community on the 2nd April. Autism East Midlands will be hosting a ‘Pathway to Adulthood’ conference on the 25th April at Glebe House, Loughborough and Contact a Family will run a ‘Challenging Behaviour’ Workshop on the 26th April.

A calendar of autism friendly events across Leicestershire is being coordinated during the Easter Holidays. Anyone wishing to run something or wish to promote their activity or find out how they can get involved can contact marketing@glebehouseproject.org.uk or calling 07398 987 627 by 25th March.

Stroke and Disability Club Wed 1pm Walking Group Thursday morning Knit&natter, monthly book club Rhyme Time.

Up-coming activities over Easter: We will be having a “Find the Chick Hunt” from 8th April -22nd April with prizes for finding the chick.

You need to check out 3 books when submitting your answer.

Plus craft activities.

Opening Times over the Easter period: closed Friday 14th April open Saturday 15th April.

Space available to hire for groups.

Contact email: meashamcomlibrary@gmail.com Registered Charity no 1167493

North West Group Of Leicestershire And Rutland Wildlife Trust Events On Saturday 20th May there will be a Wildlife Trust Family Concert with Ashby Concert Band.

Ashby Concert Band will be playing a wide range of classical , modern and traditional music based around animals, birds and the traditional English country side. This family concert, which begins at 4-30pm in Holy Trinity Church Ashby, is the main focus of a weekend of wildlife activities. Tickets, including refreshments, are £10 adults and £5 children and are available from Ashby Tourist Information Office on 01530 411767 or David Maltby on 01530 222934. All proceeds will be spent on conservation in North West Leicestershire.

On Friday 19th May there will be an Evening Wildlife Walk around Ashby where you can discover some of the dusk and evening wildlife of Ashby. Meet at 8-30pm in South Street car park. The event is free.

On Saturday 20th May there will be a Wildflower and Birdsong walk at Hicks Lodge. Ben Devine of the Black to Green Project and Wildlife Trust will lead a wildflower and bird song walk at Hicks Lodge, Moira Meet at 10-00am at Hicks Lodge.

The event is free, but parking charges will apply.

4

LOCAL NEWS

Ashby Museum News Our summer programme of town history walks will begin in June with a general walk on Wednesday 7th, followed by a second one on Wednesday August 16th. These are always very popular and booking is essential. More details will follow.

Additionally, in June and August we are building on the success on the previous two years and will host groups from outside the area who will enjoy a history walk, lunch and a talk/visit to the castle.

Council’s Pay And Display Machines Will Accept New £1 Coins

Not only are we the town museum but also that of the surrounding villages of Breedon, Blackfordby, Packington, Coleorton, Smisby and Staunton Harold/Lount.

Drivers using North West Leicestershire District Council car parks will be able to use the new £1 coin without concern, as all pay and display machines have received an upgrade.

We are very grateful to the family of the late Mick Shaw of Breedon for donating his archive of village life.

The upgrade of all 28 pay and display machines in 17 car parks across the district cost a total of £980 and means that the new 12 sided £1 coins can be used immediately when they come into circulation.

John Pearson is enhancing our photographic capabilities by the introduction of a light tent with inbuilt LED lighting.

Our next exhibition in April will commemorate 100 years of Lions Clubs International and the 43 years of activities of our own local Lions Club. We can give early notice of the exhibition in May, of local photographer, Lesley Hextall.

The Royal Mint will bring 1.5 billion of the coins, which are made of two metals and feature a hologram-like image and a hidden security feature, into circulation on 28 March 2017.

We are delighted to welcome Sue Perks to our team of volunteers.

We are grateful to all who have responded to our request for help earlier in the year, the Museum is all the richer for your valuable contribution.

Friends of Ashby Museum Thank you to all who attended the recent talk on local clockmakers, which was very successful. Our next talk will take place on Wednesday May 7th at 2 pm.

When Dr. Martin Vaughan will present a slide show on wildlife photography.

Ashby Civic Society Monthly Events 2016/2017 11th April 8pm History of Rolls Royce Roy Hirst takes us through the history of Rolls Royce from its founders to the vibrant Company it is today.

Legion House, South Street, Ashby Call Susanne for details 01530 415654 or just come as a visitor

www.ashbydelazouchcivicsociety.webs.com

Plant Hunters' Fair At Donington Le Heath 1620’S House And Garden Manor Road, Donington Le Heath, Coalville Leics LE67 2FW Saturday 6th May 2017 10am - 4pm 01455 290429 Entry to Gardens & Plant Fair only £1.00

There’s nothing like getting out in the garden in spring, digging over the soil and getting everything ready for a summer of bloom and fragrance.

It’s also a great time to revamp your beds and borders casting a critical eye over everything, finding gaps and perhaps shifting out those plants that aren’t pulling their weight anymore. There’s nowhere better to find something new, unusual and exciting to fill those gaps or perk up a dull corner than at the Plant Hunters’ Fair at Donington Le Heath 1620’s House and Garden. After last year’s successful events Plant Hunters’ Fairs will be returning on Saturday 6th May with more nurseries than ever before. The mix of nurseries ensures there’s something for every type of garden; little gems to tempt the most discerning plants person and lots of help and advice for the new or less experienced gardener.

So, whether it’s alpines, trees, shrubs, bee-friendly perennials, plants for shade, climbers, herbs, spring bulbs, variegated and foliage plants you are sure to find something to fill those gaps and creating a blooming brilliant garden this year.

The Plant Fair takes place on Saturday 6th May from 10am – 4pm. Entry to the plant fair and gardens is just £1.00 with the entrance fee going directly for the benefit of the house and garden. The Old Barn Tea Room will be open and serving refreshments. Entry to the Manor House is optional at normal rates. For full details of nurseries attending please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

Councillor Alison Smith MBE, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Community Services at North West Leicestershire District Council, said: “We want to reassure our residents and visitors that they will be able to use the new pound coins in the machines and will have no issues. We like to be prepared and have sorted this potential issue out nice and early.

Of course, you don’t have to pay anything now after 3pm in our Coalville car parks, as part of our Free after 3pm initiative.”

Ashby Civic Society Monthly Events 2016/2017 9th May 7.30pm Short AGM and Cheese and Wine *Always a favourite Deb Spencer from local Long Clawson Diary will enthuse about the home of Stilton cheese.

Legion House, South Street, Ashby Call Susanne for details 01530 415654 or just come as a visitor

www.ashbydelazouchcivicsociety.webs.com

LOCAL ADVERTISERS advertorial

Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that

obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ashby & Measham areas and manager Martyn Kemp agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I

get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Martyn a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

KATS ANTIQUE VINTAGE & COLLECTABLES CENTRE

s e ar er Ye H 2 ing ad Tr

A s O Se n en TV

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

2 floors of antique, vintage and collectables including quality gold and silver jewellery at trade prices, coins, clocks, hand painted furniture, stamps, pictures, militaria, china, glass, furniture, kitchenalia, giftware and much more.

ALSO WANTED

• Gold & Sliver Jewellery • Also Scrap & Broken Items • We pay more the highest prices in the area. • Costume Jewellery • All Coins • Militaria & Medals • Stamps • Watches • Silver & Silver Plate • All interesting antiques, collectables & furniture.

Free valuations - Over 40 years experience 50 High Street, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3EE Find us on facebook - Open everyday inc bank holidays 10.00am - 4.00pm home visits available

CALL 07792974309

Public car park to rear of shop - Free parking every Sunday

Environmentally Friendly chalk and mineral paint. It is Zero VOC & Solvent Free with no odour.

We can also paint your own tired furniture. Please ask for more details.

MAGAZINE CIRCULATION COMMUNITY EYE Shepshed - 5800 Loughborough - 7000 Coalville - 7500 Ashby & Measham - 7500 T: 0800 6446150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

R.M. Page C.M.B.H.I. CLOCK REPAIRS Collection & Delivery Service

91-93 High Street Ibstock, LE67 6LH 01530 260394 07891 298820

YOUR LOCAL Anstey - 5800 Ratby - 6500 Birstall - 5600 Rothley 5600

Variable opening hours please call to enquire

www.clockrepairsleicestershire.co.uk

5

6

LOCAL NEWS

The First Winners Of The Reading Resolution At Coalville & Ashby Libraries Congratulations to Janet Dorman at Coalville Library and Alexander Groom at Ashby Library.

Watermead Challenge 2017

Both lucky winners had their names drawn out on February 2nd to be the first winners of this years Reading Resolution which is taking place at libraries across the county. Both received £30 of shopping vouchers.

This year’s Watermead Challenge charity run is being held at 7pm on Tuesday 11th July 2017.

There are still two more chances to win, as more winners will be picked at both libraries on March 2nd and April 1st.

So get down to Coalville library or Ashby library and for every 6 books you borrow your name will be entered into a FREE prize draw.

There are the usual five and three mile courses. Race Director, Chris Battye commented “ The two distances appeal to a range of abilities from novice runners to the more experienced. The flat lakeside course is popular as it offers the chance to achieve a personal best time.”

Make sure you come along now and join the resolution!

This year’s proceeds will be shared between the Leicester Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) and Loughborough based Mosaic Disability Services.

For more information please call Coalville Library on: 0116 3053565 or email: coalvillelibrary@leics.gov.uk or Ashby library on: 0116 3055917 or email: ashbylibrary@leics.gov.uk

The event, organised by the Wreake Valley and Syston Rotary Clubs, attracted about 400 runners in 2016. Full entry details can be found at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk

Watermead Challenge 2017 A charity 5 mile run & 3 mile run Now with chip timing!

Coalville Library’s Construction Club!

Coalville Library hosted its second Construction Club on Saturday 4th March 10.30am-12.00pm. For only £1 per child, children could play with LEGO and embrace their creative side, letting their imagination run wild!

Due to the popularity of the club, we are now making the club fortnightly and you will also need to book a place in advance to attend the session.

The next Construction Club will take place on Saturday 18th March, 10.30-12.00pm at Coalville Library. The club is suitable for children aged 6-12 years, however, all families are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout. Due to the popularity of the group you will need to book a space – don’t miss out, book your place now!

To book your space please ring: 0116 305 3565 or email coalvillelibrary@leics.gov.uk

Tuesday 11th July 2017, 7pm at Watermead Country Park Syston Leicester LE7 1PD (north entrance)

Supporting MNDA and Mosaic

Presented by

Sponsored by

with special thanks to the Rangers of Watermead Country Park.

The Rotary Club of the Wreake Valley and the new Syston Rotary Club.

Trust Fund Charity No. 001119549.

Entry Details at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk Entries accepted until 6.30pm on the night.

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

“At the heart of the community”

Award winning garden work at an affordable price Whether you’re looking to completely change your garden, focus on a particular area for improvement or just need some help maintaining your current garden, we can provide affordable expert help with:  Paving  Walling  Decking

 Gravelling  Water features  Plant choice and positioning

 Lawn care  Tree care  Pruning

To discuss how we could help with your garden and get a quote Call Pete on 07837 269 504 or email pete@pmblandscaping.co.uk

RETAIL & OFFICE SPACE TO RENT CO-WORKER SPACE DAY OFFICES 56 High Street Measham

07796 444714 / 01530 273686 info@meashambusinesscentre.co.uk

Free WiFi

Coalville Furniture Superstore

DIVAN AND STORAGE BEDS

BED FRAMES

BEDROOM FURNITURE BY RAUCH

B FIR RAN SH ST D NO OW FL NEW W RO OO OP OM R EN

Come and see our exciting new displays of beds and bedroom furniture

Coalville Furniture Superstore, 79 - 81 Belvoir Road, Coalville LE67 3PH (former Co-op department store) Tel: 01530 833311 Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5pm, Sunday closed. Car park at rear.

7

8

LOCAL NEWS

Ashby & Measham Clubs & Groups Do you run a local community club or group in Ashby & Measham? Please send us your details to: communityeye@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Ashby Big Band

-------------------------------------------------

Measham Karate Club

Ann 01530 458110 www.bridgewebs.com/ashby Different bridge sessions offered for all levels of bridge player, Monday and Thursday evenings, Wednesday afternoons and Friday mornings, at Hood Park Leisure Centre.

-------------------------------------------------

David - 01530 458706 07886194993 ashbybigband@aol.com www.ashbybigband.com ------------------------------------------------07761131043 meashamkarateclub@gmail.com www.meashamkarateclub.co.uk -------------------------------------------------

Ashby Art Club

01530 412116 www.ashbyartclub.org We meet on Monday evenings at 7pm. Smisby Village Hall, Main Street, Smisby, Ashby, LE65 2TY -------------------------------------------------

Ashby Civic Society

Margaret Mabey 01530 412410 kenward.ashby@gmail.com We meet on the 2nd Tuesday in the Month at Legion House, 27a South Street, Ashby, LE65 1BQ -------------------------------------------------

Measham Bowls Club

Sue & Stuart Boothroyd 01530 274104 stuartboothroyd@btinternet.com High Street, Measham, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE12 7HR -------------------------------------------------

Ashby Bowls Club

info@ashbybowlsclub.co.uk www.ashbybowlsclub.co.uk The Green, Bath Grounds, Ashby, LE65 1BJ -------------------------------------------------

Venture Theatre

Ken Ward - 01530 589268 www.ashbyventuretheatre.org.uk North Street, Ashby, LE65 1HS For ticket sales please call Ashby Tourist Office on 01530 411767.

-------------------------------------------------

Ashby U3A

Anne Donegan - 01283 760348 secretary@ashbyu3a.co.uk Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street, Ashby, LE65 2FQ -------------------------------------------------

Ashby African Drummers

Kaye Gillanders - 0777 2281699 ashbydrummers@googlemail.com Check us out on Facebook or visit our website: www. ashbydrummers.webeden.co.uk We are a community based group and meet once a fortnight on a Wednesday (next session Wednesday, 28th September) from 7.30pm - 9.30pm, at Moira Furnace, Furnace Lane, Moira, Derbyshire. DE12 6AT. The first taster session is free and then usually £3.00 per session thereafter. We sometimes have guest teachers visit, so best to contact us prior to coming to secure a drum and check suitability. We welcome people of all ages and abilities although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Ashby Bridge Club

The Ashby Probus Club

Frank Bedford - 01530 467183 For retired professional and businessmen meets monthly in Ashby. We enjoy a pub lunch, speakers, a programme of outings and functions and each others company. The club welcomes new members.

-------------------------------------------------

Ashby & District Stroke Support Group

Pat - 01530 413723 A friendly group for stroke survivors and their carers. We meet alternate Tuesdays at Brown Court Ashby from 2pm-4pm. Meetings involve speakers, meal sout,and general chat.

-------------------------------------------------

Ashby Meditation

Irene - 01530414290 www.tarakmc.org Why not drop in and try our weekly classes on Thursdays 30th March, 6th April,(Easter break) then 27th April & 4th May at 7.30 in Legion House, South Street, Ashby. No need to book.

-------------------------------------------------

The Trinity Badminton Club

Secretary - 07801 700 664 The club is a small friendly club of average ability (non league) meeting Monday evenings at Holy Trinity Church Hall, off Kilwardby Street, Ashby from 7.30pm – 9.00pm. We play from Jan to May then Sept to Dec. New members always welcome.

-------------------------------------------------

Ashby Chess Club

N Roberts - 01530 455957 Chess club open to adults and juniors. Juniors start at 6.15pm and Adults start at 7.15pm. Meets every Thursday at Ivanhoe Social Club, Wilfrid Place, off Bath Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 2GW. ------------------------------------------------

Ashby Croquet Club

Rupert - 01530 272833 www.ashbycroquetclub.org.uk The New Season starts on Sunday 26th March on our 3 lawns situated at Moira Miners Welfare DE12 6BP (opposite Conkers Waterside). We play on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Please phone or visit the website if you want more details.

New players always welcome.

------------------------------------------------

The Council Is Building New Homes – For The First Time In Almost Three Decades North West Leicestershire District Council is building council homes for the first time in 26 years, providing much needed affordable housing for local people.

The 24 houses and bungalows will be built on council-owned sites at Linford Crescent and Verdon Crescent in Coalville and on the Willesley Estate in Ashby de la Zouch.

The council’s contractor, Robert Woodhead Ltd, has now started on site in Coalville, with the first homes expected to be ready for new tenants by the autumn. All of the homes will be available for affordable rent and were funded solely from RTB receipts and the council’s existing housing budget.

The largest site at Coalville was unlocked for development after the authority built and opened a brand new community building on land where disused garages had previously stood. This was handed over to the local Tenants and Residents Association in January 2017, enabling the demolition of an empty sheltered housing block that previously housed a community facility for the area.

Councillor Roger Bayliss, Portfolio Holder for Housing at North West Leicestershire District Council, said: “The council is building much needed affordable housing again, which represents a landmark

Ashby Writers’ Club

David Bell - 01530 413371 Ashby Writers’ Club meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7.30pm-9.30pm at Congregational Church, Kilwardby St, Ashby LE65 2FQ. Membership: £15 per annum.

Visitors are welcome at a nominal fee of £4 per speaker meeting, £3 per comp/manuscript meeting (includes coffee or tea).

------------------------------------------------

for us. We have planned and consulted carefully and are now in a strong position to move forward with increasing our housing stock for local people in North West Leicestershire. We’re not the first local authority to start building again, and I hope we won’t be the last. We strongly believe in investing in our communities and making our district a place that people are proud to call home.”

The programme of works was procured through a regional consortium of public sector bodies, EEM Ltd, of which North West Leicestershire is a member.

Craig Pygall, Construction Director for Robert Woodhead Ltd, said: “We’re delighted to have been appointed through the EEM New Build framework and to be a part of such an important programme for North West Leicestershire District Council. We’re very keen to ensure the work we do is not only of a high standard, but something that will be remembered, not just for the bricks and mortar, but for the impact our work can have on the local community. We will always look to support the local community while we’re on site, working with nearby schools and colleges to offer work experience opportunities, as well as working with as many local sub- contractors as possible to ensure the council’s investment will also support the local economy.”

Hilary Prime, Chair of the Tenant’s and Resident’s Association, said: “We are all so grateful to North West Leicestershire District Council for providing the new community centre, which we helped to design and fit out. It is a great place where we can meet as a group and promote all our community activities.”

Tai Chi

Robin Taylor - 0773 8939271 r.taylor@virgin.net Class every Monday morning at Measham Leisure Centre 11.30 to 12.30. Beginners welcome.

------------------------------------------------

National Forest Taekwon-do 07795 276302

www.nationalforesttaekwondo.co.uk

Clubs in Netherseal and Measham ------------------------------------------------

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

9

A CHAMPAGNE PACKAGE TO SEE WEST END SHOW...

St. Martin’s Theatre, London is offering a wonderful champagne package to the value of £155 for three lucky readers to see the world’s longest running stage production. Be part of history and see this truly entertaining classic!

Simply visit www.the-mousetrap.co.uk and tell us: how many years has the show been running?

Name: Address:

Email:

Tel No:

Please send to entry to: Mousetrap Competition, OpenBox Promotions Ltd, 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, Leicestershire, LE9 2HQ

Terms & Conditions - The prize is only applicable Monday - Thursday with a matinee on Tuesdays and NOT on a Bank Holiday. Prize should be claimed within 3 months. No transport or hotels are included in the prize package. Confirmation letter must be presented at the Box Office where tickets and additional prizes will be waiting on the day. Three lucky readers will win: a pair of tickets, a bottle of champagne, a programme and a souvenir brochure. Competition closes 10th April 2017.

Winners details will be passed to third party to arrange preferred show date and paperwork.

Buy a cut price compost bin

from on ly

£10.98

www.getcomposting.com Quoting reference LWP36

Open to Leicester City and County residents only. Offer limited to two subsidised compost bins per household.

Q0849

0844 571 4444

10

LOCAL NEWS

Tackling Weeds

Bittercress

Spring is well and truly here now and there’s plenty to be doing in the garden. There are colourful bulbs to admire, spring perennials blooming in all their glory and shots unfurling on shrubs and trees, it’s a great time to get outside and enjoy your garden. However a plague of weeds can be discouraging, so this month I thought I’d run through a few common garden and the best way to tackle them.

I’ll be looking at traditional weeds as opposed to out of control cultivated plants. There are two main types of garden weed; the annual and the perennial.

Annual weeds Annual weeds are those which have a one year life-cycle i.e.

Germinate, grow, flower and set seed all within one year.

They can over-winter as small immature plants and are often ephemeral – they will have several generations in one year.

A couple of the worst offenders in gardens in our area are:

Dandelion

Groundsel - Produces seeds all year round. It is characterised by small clusters of yellow blooms on short plants which produce fluffy seeds, easily spread in the wind or my animals. Although hoeing and hand picking seedlings is effective, be sure to pick up all material from the surface of the ground as Groundsel will very easily re-root. Mulching the surface can help reduce weed germination.

Hairy bittercress –becoming more prevalent in gardens, Bittercress

Willowherb

Bel Grierson

Garden Designer & Plantswoman

germinates, flowers and sets seed very rapidly – in a matter of weeks! Short flower stems flick seed around the surrounding soil. Hoe or hand weeding at first sight before flowering will help to avoid colonisation of the ground.

Bittercress is also a problem in containers where it can go un-noticed and fill the compost surface with seeds.

ensure the weedkiller doesn’t touch anything you want to keep. In areas of dense colonisation, digging down to remove the root system will be necessary and the only option for badly infected borders.

Perennial weeds Perennial weeds are those which have a life-cycle longer than one year. They will germinate/ spread from a mother plant and continue to grow, develop , flower, set seed or proliferate by other means continually until they are eradicated. A few perennial weeds I most often find in my clients gardens are: Willowherb - A weed common in the wild and in gardens, the seed is spread by the wind. With attractive foliage and flowers it can easily be missed when weeding. It is shallow rooted which makes it easy to hoe or hand weed but ensure every piece is taken as it can easily re-root.

Small glossy leaved plant-lets can over-winter in borders, pots and nooks & crannies. Remove them in early spring before the plant can grow larger.

Bindweed - such a problem in the garden environment, it’s twining stems can swamp flowers and shrubs in borders. Untangling the stems from wanted plants and applying a weedkiller such as Glyphosate is the most effective way if treating this thug, but do belgriersondesign info@belgrierson.co.uk

Dandelion - The most well recognised garden weed, it is easy to identify by it’s large yellow blooms and seed ‘clocks’.

Best eradicated using a systemic weedkiller which will kill the whole plant including the root.

If weeding by hand it is easy to leave sections of root in the ground with will re-grow another plant. The seed is wind blown and soon colonises borders, lawns and containers so It is important to stop the plant from setting seed.

Remove flowers in bloom and do not leave them lying around or place them in the compost bin as they can still produce seed.

N.B Beware that systemic weedkillers will have an effect on any plant they come in contact with so care should be used if applying within established borders or near to lawns.

Manufacture instructions should be followed with regards to application rates and health and safety precautions.

I hope I’ve encouraged you to get out and tackle the weeds in your garden. Next month I’ll be looking at compost, manure and soils – what to use and where.

www.belgrierson.co.uk 07506750250

FOX PROPERTY SERVICES City Guilds Qual. Plumber offers….

• Kitchens and Bathrooms fitted • Floors and Walls tiled • General plumbing maintenance • Upgrades for shower/tap/radiator etc • Joinery, general property maintenance and renovation • Specialist’s in property renovation for sale/rental markets

Reasonable rates call Martin on 07793204097 hynardm@gmail.com

529363

Call Lee on 0116 359 3100 SERVICING Average appliance has 30 items checked, adjusted and cleaned

Landlord electronic certificates with email/text reminder service available

REPAIRS FIX PRICE GUARANTEED

Fully insured

Installations, Free Quotations

Dynamic power flushing available

ERP Boilers from £1250 plus VAT

LPG qualified

5,7 and 10 years warranties

25 years of experience

www.ignitegasltd.co.uk

Check us out on

/ignitegasservices

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

11

Coalville Town Ravenettes Premier League Trophy Visit

Magic was in the air at the Coalville Town Ravenettes training at the Hermitage Leisure Centre 3G pitches as it was much more than an average training session. Thanks to the hard work of Amanda Perry, the one and only Premier League Trophy was brought down by officials from Premier League champions Leicester City to the delight of a huge crowd. All the girls’ teams were present as well as a few boys’ sides and many other visitors.

It was a damp evening in Whitwick, however this didn’t deter the excitable congregating crowd as the sense of anticipation grew whilst waiting for the arrival of the trophy. The sheer amount of Ravenettes present demonstrated how far they have come in the past few years, and will no doubt continue to grow, with the future looking bright for the Coalville girls’ sides as they aim to become one of the biggest girls’ clubs in Leicestershire.

It was a wonderful occasion with a brilliant atmosphere, with there being plenty of kickabouts taking place, as well as a cake sale to satisfy any peckish visitors. It was really a once in a lifetime experience for many, with everyone eager for their picture to be taken with the gloriously

blue and gold ribboned trophy.

Everyone managed to do so as the officials kindly allowed the trophy to remain for a considerable amount of time, this also meant there was time for a number of team photos for the young Coalville sides, which will be treasured for years to come.

There were a number of special guests present (pictured above).

Leicester City under 23 captain and local lad Elliot Moore, Coalville Town Ravenettes secretary councillor Alison Smith and councillors Geary and Johnson all gave their support to the event and posed for a picture with the founder of the Ravenettes and u13 manager Wayne McDermott and the captains of all the Ravenette teams and a selection of young Ravens sides.

Coalville Town Ravenettes have taken huge strides in the last few years and now have multiple successful sides including Leicestershire junior sports team of the year, the u13 Ravenettes.

The Ravenettes are always looking to take on new girls of the age of 8 or upwards, regardless of their ability or playing experience.

Any girls interested in joining this rapidly growing and welcoming club can contact Wayne McDermott- 07876140248 and Amanda Perry- 07969373073

12

LOCAL NEWS

Store Raises Over £3,000 For Local Animal Charity Woodside Animal Centre – the Leicester branch of the RSPCA – has been presented with a cheque for £3,106.73 by the Pets at Home, Fosse Park store.

Employees and customers raised the money through their ‘Santa Paws’ appeal which ran during December. Nationally, the appeal which aims to support rescue centers, particularly over the festive period, raised an astonishing £1,064,064.86 with customers making donations in stores, online and by text.

As part of the Fosse Park store’s charity appeal, Deputy Store Manager Jamie Sands also made the ultimate sacrifice by shaving his hair and beard. Three years of growth was ceremoniously shorn by their in-store pet groomers, the Groom Room.

Woodside’s Branch and Commercial Manager, Gary Wheway, was delighted to receive the donation. He said: “The success of the work we do, and the impact we have, both on the animals and the local community, can only be achieved with the support of local people and businesses within Leicestershire and Rutland. It’s fantastic when local businesses get behind us; we are so very grateful for the support from all the fantastic employees and customers at Pets at Home Fosse Park. Their incredible donation had a very positive impact for the animals in our care this year, they all had a very special Christmas indeed.”

Pets at Home Store Manager, Jamie Maddison, said: “We are pleased to have been able to support such a brilliant local charity. They do amazing work to take care of the unwanted and vulnerable animals in our community and that benefits all of us. They’re under an incredible amount of pressure to raise the funds they need to keep the center running week in and week out. We’re pleased to have been able to make a contribution to that.”

Olympian Inspires Ivanhoe Girls

Charlies-Angel-Centre Supporting Bereaved Parents & Families

On the 8th March, Joanne Jackson – former British Olympic bronze medallist in swimming , visited Ivanhoe College to aid with the launch of our Girls Active project. Throughout the morning session the girls had the opportunity to learn about Joanne’s background in swimming and the barriers she faced on her journey, whilst also learning the Sky Sports for Living 6 keys to success; Mental toughness, Hunger to achieve, People skills, Sports and life knowledge, Breaking barriers and Planning for success. To finish the session, they had an opportunity to put these keys to success into action with some fun team building activities.

When a baby lives only a short time or dies before birth due to miscarriage, stillbirth or a painful decision to end the pregnancy, there is a common assumption that the loss is not important. This is simply not the case. Losing your baby is something no parent ever forgets. It is a time of intense anguish and sorrow. Aftercare and support is essential and we are here to help.

For the afternoon session the Girl Active group split into their 3 separate teams where they worked alongside Joanne to develop new ways in which they could improve their 3 areas of focus; parental engagement, girls active clubs and promotion. The girls involved felt inspired after the visit and are keen to put their projects into action.

www.Charlies-Angel-Centre.org.uk Tel: 0113 8081507

We Provide

Telephone & Email Support - Bereavement Counselling Community Support Group - Information & Support In Your Area

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

13

Dog owner for 25 years offering a reliable, bespoke & friendly dog walking service.

Any breeds walked in fair or foul weather.

QUALITY REPLACEMENT

Fully insured tailored service.

Windows

Call Sally on 07980 744645 to find a new best friend for your best friend.

Doors Porches Conservatories Fascia Soffit & Guttering Composite Doors Bi-Folding Doors Garage Doors Misted Sealed Units Replaced

Shutters for all window shapes and sizes including patio doors and bay windows

Aluminium Windows & Doors

Betteridge Windows & Doors, Leicester Road, Measham

T: 01530 272106 M: 07870 690160 E: jbetteridge.upvc@gmail.com Find us on  Betteridge Windows & Doors

ALMSHOUSE FLAT Ravenstone Court, Hospital Lane, Ravenstone

Self-contained flats available in historic sheltered housing complex in attractive village location.

For Ladies over 55 years of age Living Room ◆ Bedroom Kitchen ◆ Bathroom ◆ Central Heating Resident Warden and Emergency Call Service Enquiries: Clerk to the Trustees, A R Argyle, 34 High Street, Repton, Derby, DE65 6GD

T: 01283 701277 - E: enquiries@argylefrics.co.uk Charity No. 217605

01530 251312

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

HS2 Round-up A big thank you to everyone who has responded to the consultations on HS2, which closed on 9th March. I think Measham has put up a terrific fight and special thanks to all those involved in organizing the campaign.

All of the local councils responded, and it’s worth a quick look back at what they said.

Measham Parish Council came out against HS2 and opposed the new route to the east of Measham.

The District Council opposed the eastern route, but were in favour of HS2 overall. The County Council pointed out the impacts of the eastern route but didn’t oppose it as such and also were in favour of HS2 overall.

I worked hard to make sure all the Councils had taken on board local views in their final reports, which in fairness they did, but I wasn’t able to persuade District and County to come out against HS2 overall. This was frustrating as they started by making estimates of the supposed economic benefits of HS2 but neglected to weigh off the negative impacts as the evidence flowed in from local sources.

In the case of the District Council, they decided their position at meeting of the Full Council on February 23rd. Various people had written in, responding to the meeting papers which were published a week or so earlier. I moved an amendment asking for those submissions to be taken into account in the Council’s response, but the Tories used their majority to reject it, which suggests there’s a limit to how much democracy they are prepared to tolerate.

As for what comes next, we shall have to wait till the Government makes an announcement on the route later this year. Let’s hope they’ve taken notice of us.

ANDREW BRIDGEN Speed Camera Trial Measham is one of seven locations throughout Leicestershire that has been earmarked for a trial of average speed cameras. If the scheme goes ahead, the favoured location is Ashby Road, at each end of the 30mph zone, although that could be extended along the High Street to the junction with Leicester Road. There will be a period of consultation once all the options have been looked at.

The interesting thing about this scheme is that it doesn’t seem to be related to casualty reduction in the same way that traffic calming is. As such, it’s possible that the locations chosen in the future may be governed by how quickly it is reckoned they can generate fines to recoup the cost of the cameras, rather than a properly evidence based approach to road safety.

AB Produce and The Environment Agency This month the Environment Agency published an update on the permit application for an anaerobic digester from AB Produce. The lagoons, which were the principal source of the smell, have been withdrawn from the permit, making it extremely unlikely they will be used in the future for storing effluent from the plant. Presumably the Environment Agency’s conditions on the use of the lagoons were just too strict for AB Produce to comply with.

Instead, it’s expected the waste will be stored in tanks, prior to being spread on fields around Measham and Elford. This still causes me concern because of the amount of traffic movements it creates through Measham, which is currently the subject of some fraught discussions with the police and County Highways. More on that next month.

MAGAZINE CIRCULATION COMMUNITY EYE Shepshed - 5800 Loughborough - 7000 Coalville - 7500 Ashby & Measham - 7500 T: 0800 6446150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

YOUR LOCAL Anstey - 5800 Ratby - 6500 Birstall - 5600 Rothley 5600

The NHS has been making headlines both locally and nationally in recent weeks as it deals with its busiest period of the year and the inevitable media interest that follows it.

With an aging population which is predicted to increase by 11% in the next 5 years, there are inevitably going to be more pressure on the NHS and the Government has continued to protect the NHS budget to with an additional £10 billion of investment per annum in real terms by 2020/21 - compared to 2014/15.

been stretched over the winter.

At no point have our Emergency Departments closed but it is understandable how there is such pressure when you consider last year there were over 20 million admissions to A and E which is 5 million more than 6 years ago.

The UK's health spending is above average within the OECD at around 10% of GDP and this funding has to be efficiently and effectively. Healthcare is constantly evolving and the NHS has to do the same. Advances in technology such as keyhole surgery means hospital stays are shorter and its common sense that people want to send as little time in hospital as possible as they recover faster in their own homes.

Locally I know of the concerns raised when the Ashby Community Hospital closed. As I made clear at the time, this could only be justified if the money used to run the hospital could be better used treating patients in the home using a virtual ward system and that there continues to be adequate local provision at locations such as in Coalville for whom a return home is not yet practical. Our CCG remains committed to delivering services at Coalville Hospital and his is a valuable facility for this area which could and should serve as an urgent out of hours service to help ease demand on A and E

In order to spend taxpayers money in the most efficient and effective way, the Five Year Forward View, produced by the NHS itself, sets out its own vision for the future. Its vision is one where the NHS provides more care closer to home, prioritises prevention and empowers citizens with the tools and information to manage their own care.

In each of 44 local areas, NHS commissioners and providers have come together to decide how to improve services and realise this vision. Far from being secret, STPs were publicly announced by NHS England in December 2015. These plans are not about making cuts, but to ensure that increased resources for the NHS lead directly to better care for patients.

All plans have been published and are being consulted on. One area of significant concern in the Staffordshire STP is the option of reducing the Burton A and E to just an urgent care centre. This is a totally unacceptable plan with half of people in North West Leicestershire relying on Burton's hospital and needing its services at the A&E. I and my Parliamentary colleagues are campaigning strongly against the proposal and I would ask anyone who feels the same way to sign the petition www.saveburtonaande.com The issues in Accident and Emergency departments have been prominent in the news and there is no doubt services have

I believe there is a failure of primary care given these unplanned A and E admissions are up by almost a quarter since 2010, and the number of those admissions where there is no access to primary care has doubled.

The Sustainability and Transformation plan here in Leicestershire highlights the Better Care Together programme working under the principle of ‘Home First’ for recovery from treatment as that where patients tell them that’s where they want to be. Locally our Clinical Commissioning group want more care to be delivered at a primary level, i.e via your GP rather than using hospitals for minor procedures. These are principles I think most of us would agree with.

I am of course aware of the significant issues and pressure on the Health Service. It is essential that health and social care works in a more joined up way, we need to better inform people of the most appropriate pathway for treatment and we have to maintain increased investment.

We have an aging population and it is essential that the NHS evolves in order meet the ever increasing demands for its services.

I would just finally like to welcome Cllr Leon Spence to the Conservative Party. Leon has pointed out that only one party and one leader that has the gravitas, the decency and the principle to make the country stronger and I look forward to working with him.

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

Looking To Try Local Advertising?

Then this is the deal for you, all adverts for new customers taken in March 2017 will get 25% off their first advert when you quote "25% ASHBY & MEASHAM SALE" No Contracts • Free Advert Design • Advertise Where You Want, When You Want Call us on 0800 6446 150 or email us at: communityeye@openboxpromotions.co.uk

e f i l a e g Chan

e m o h n w o r u from yo eed you,

dults who n a r fo re a c d n Support a our own home y f o rt fo m o c difference? from the to make a real t an W • e? or m om for one ers? • Have ro h ot from you. p el h to on want to hear e w en h T • Have a passi g? n cari experience of • Have some

Call 0116 305 8133 or email sharedlives@leics.gov.uk Visit leicestershire.gov.uk/shared-lives-service for more information

15

“WE WERE DELIGHTED W I T H T H E R E SULT S , W E A R E T H E E N V Y OF T H E NEI G HB OU R H OOD! ” Mr and Mrs Smith, Leeds

BUY NOW

PAY LATER

A DRI V E WAY A dream drive is closer than you think because at Resin Drives we will pay your VAT when you purchase either a Drive, Path, or Patio from our new and exclusive range.

of

CLASS Bankbuster Loan

Why should you install a Resin Drive?

That’s simple; our product naturally drains water through it which means no puddles. Also, with a slip resistant surface it provides better traction for tyres and gives more grip for when you walk on it, making your drive a safe place to be!

OVER

NO OBLIGATION

FREE

QUOTATION

YEARS EXPERIENCE

at 5.9% APR – 36-48-60-120 Months Representative example (60 months) Total Loan Amount: £7,000 Monthly Repayment: £134.82 Number of Repayments: 59 And Final Payment of: £134.30 Agreement Length: 60 Months Total Amount Payable: £8,088.68 Total Credit Charge: £1,088.68 Rate of Interest: 5.7% Fixed Representative APR: 5.9% APR

C A LL T HE DR IVEWAY, PAT H A N D PAT I O S PE C I A L I STS TO DAY !

0800 007 5733 O R VI SI T WW W. RE S IND RIV E S .CO. U K

INSTALLERS

NATIONWIDE