April 2017 - Coalville Community Eye

COALVILLE

COMMUNITY EYE

DELIVERED MONTHLY FREE TO 7500 HOMES & BUSINESSES

IN THE GARDEN WITH BEL

Tackling Weeds

APRIL 2017

LOYALFREE

The App For Supporting Local Independent Business!

COALVILLE TOWN BOWLS CLUB WORK TO START ON FORMER BUS DEPOT

Date For Your Diary Sunday 7th May

Thanks To NWLDC Grant

PRESENTATION NIGHT 1188 Coalville Squadron Air Training Corps

INVISIBLE LEICESTERSHIRE Pocket Two Titles At National Finals!

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

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

WK Advert Jan17 ARTWORK.indd 1

26/01/2017 17:03

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS FRONT COVER PHOTO BY:

Bigstock © _________________________________________

LIKE & FOLLOW US

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

ARTICLES

0800 6446150 communityeye@openboxpromotions.co.uk

ADVERTS

Sarah Taylor or Dawn Harris

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

DISTRIBUTION Andrew Lewis

Ofsted Says Newbridge Continues To Be A Good School

Listening To Stories At Coalville Library

Newbridge staff and governors are delighted that the school has retained its ‘GOOD’ rating following its inspection on 7th February. Inspectors praised the quality of teaching and recognised the progress that students make at the school. The report states:

Do you find it hard to pick a good book to read?

Do you have difficulty settling into a story?

Not read anything for ages?

“You have ensured that the quality of teaching is consistently good. Teachers use their good subject knowledge to ensure that pupils develop the skills and understanding they need to be successful.”

We meet every Tuesday from 1.00-2.30pm. We share a story and some poems. Ingrid chooses the stories and poems and reads them to the group. We discuss, we listen, we share our thoughts if we want to. Some of us have never understood short stories and certainly not investigated poems since school.

Particularly praised were the quality of safeguarding and pastoral care at the school. The report makes it clear that:

07504634838 andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk

PUBLISHED BY

Open Box Promotions Ltd

0800 6446150 sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk www.openboxpromotions.co.uk Open Box Promotions Ltd 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, LE9 2HQ _________________________________________

NEXT ISSUE OUT

Deadline Date: 25th April Delivery Date: 14th May 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

“Safeguarding is effective. Your records show that staff take swift and appropriate action in response to any concerns they have about pupils’ welfare.”

“A number of parents praised the excellent pastoral support at the school. One wrote, ‘Every child matters at this school.

They should be proud of what they have achieved."

Stewart Goacher, Headteacher, said, “I am very pleased with the report. The hard work of all our staff, our students, and the invaluable support of our parents, has meant that we continue to provide high quality education for the young people of Coalville.”

Inspectors thought that the governors of the school were effective in holding the senior leadership team to account.

Roger Cairns, chair of governors said: “I am delighted that the school has received the recognition that it deserves.”

Not only is the school offering high quality learning opportunities for all students but Inspectors also found that the school has been effective in supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These students are making good progress, have improved attendance, and are well prepared for the next stage of their education.

Inspectors also praised the quality of the school’s assessment system that has been devised in partnership with other local schools.

“You have worked effectively with partner schools to develop your own system of assessment that promotes pupils’ progress across different phases of education.

Pupils and their parents have a good understanding of the different pathways.”

Stewart Goacher added: “The school values its partnerships. We recognise that everyone benefits when we work closely with other schools. The school continues on its journey to further improvement, with the aim to ensure all of our young people receive outstanding opportunities. Inspectors agree with our assessment of what we still need to work on. We are determined that the school will continue to improve.”

Inspectors noted that all students liked the range of lunchtime activities available to them and praised the opportunities on offer to students. No evidence of disruptive behaviour in lessons was found. A room set up to support students with challenging behaviour was seen as effective in providing a safe haven for pupils to receive one-to-one support and counselling and reengage in their learning.

Special assemblies have been held at the school to ensure that all students know what inspectors think of the school and to thank them for their continuing hard work.

A full copy of the Ofsted report is available on the school website www.newbridgesch.uk.

If this is you then come along to the Shared Reading group at Coalville library.

There is no homework, and nothing to prepare.

We are very friendly and light-hearted and would love you to come and join us. It’s free and you can come as often or as little as you like, so give it a go?

We look forward to welcoming you.

Memories Of Shepshed 1945 – 1960’s By a local lad, Michael Fowkes Two separate talks: 30th March 2017, 7.30 pm and 27th April 2017, 7.30 pm Oaks in Charnwood, Church Hall £6.00 Refreshments available Funds to support kidney Research, Leicester Phone: 01509 506343 for tickets between 10.00 am – 4.00 pm

CARERS WANTED Start your career in care You can make a difference…

Grandad‛s carers work FLEXIBLE hours are KIND and CARING and Have EXCELLENT training

Grandad’s Carers work for a reputable Company with 25 years experience of delivering care Get in touch…

Call us on: 01455292648 Email:

managementteam@givecare.co.uk www.givecarehomecare.co.uk

4

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

It’s All Going On At Conkers This Easter!

Live shows and activities for the whole family from 1-23 April 2017 There will be three weeks of Easter fun at CONKERS this year with a programme of live shows and adventure activities from 1-23 April 2017.

Whitwick And District U3A

See The Amazing Transformation Of Hough Mill

Whitwick and District U3A will hold its monthly General Meeting on Friday 21st April. The U3A offers companionship through learning and social activities to retired people. Members are involved in a wide range of Interest Groups, such as Spanish, Fun Choir, Walking, Computing, Short Mat Bowls, Art, Book Reading and Theatre Group. There are over forty Groups, all based on the self-help ethos. At the General Meeting, Group Leaders and others will be on hand to answer questions and pass on information about our thriving U3A. Everyone is assured of a warm welcome.

The U3A is a non-political and non-religious organisation.

Restoration In 1994 Swannington Heritage Trust purchased the derelict shell of Hough Mill. After meticulous planning a restoration programme in 1999 repaired the structure and added doors, windows, floors, a cap and some machinery.

The speaker at the April meeting will be Stewart Shepard representing the local charity Hospice Hope. The aims of Hospice Hope are to improve the life and well-being of adults with life limiting illnesses and their carers in North West Leicestershire. Their motto is: “help make it happen” and their services are run by a team of volunteers. Stewart will talk about the charity's work and future plans, including the weekly Support Cafes where guests can take advantage of the friendly drop-in support groups. His presentation will reveal how Hospice Hope responds to the growing need for pastoral care in the community.

To listen to Stewart and find out more about Whitwick and District U3A, come along to St. David's Church Hall, Broom Leys, Coalville LE67 4RL. Please arrive at 1.45 for a 2.00pm start.

Alternatively, search online for www.whitwicku3a.org.uk where full details of Whitwick and District U3A are available.

The mill opened to the public in 2000 and the restoration has continued, including a fantail, brakewheel and wallower. The volunteers in the Trust’s Mill Team are currently making and installing a sack hoist.

Summer Opening Our 200 year old windmill will open 2-5pm on Sundays from the 2nd April to the 24th September. We also open for community groups and schools by arrangement. Vehicle access is from St George’s Hill, Swannington, LE67 8QW. A unique feature of the mill is its location next to the Gorse Field with its visible history of bell pit and gin pit coal mining. In the adjacent Califat Spinney there are ongoing excavations of the 1850’s coal mine and miners’ cottages.

Easter At The Mill Our family heritage events continue with Easter at the Mill on Monday 17th April. The event is free, but advance booking is required as we would hate to run out of chocolate eggs for the Easter egg hunt. Other events include: The Coleorton Railway and Jessop’s Tramway guided walk on Sunday 14th May. Ancient Mines to New Woodland guided walk on Sunday 17th May. Take Teddy to the Mill on Sunday 21st May. Charity Trustees Needed We would like to strengthen our management by recruiting three new trustees. Trustees attend about six meetings a year and support the Trust’s activities. In particular we are looking for people with expertise in at least one of the following: business management, education, fund raising, heritage, law, marketing and nature.

Our Volunteer Recruitment Day for potential new trustees and other prospective volunteers (such as mill guides, publicity, administration and historical research) on Sunday 7th May, will provide an informal opportunity to visit our sites and chat with current trustees and volunteers.

For more information about Hough Mill, events and volunteer opportunities, have a look on our www.swannington-heritage.co.uk website, see our Hough Mill Facebook page or ring 01530 222 833.

As well as CONKERS’ outdoor play activities and adventures, families will be able to enjoy the Super Circus School and Crazy Circus Workshops, Bubblepop with amazing bubbles, a traditional Punch and Judy show, Sublime Science creating live experiments, juggling, an enchanted magic show, Trevor

Hill with his animal show, rides on Lollipop Ponies, magical storytelling, Ranger crafts and activities including pond dipping, bush craft, construction derby, orienteering and the annual Easter Egg Challenge.

There is also a range of indoor activities available from exploring the Enchanted Forest Adventure Play area through to the simulated tree top walk, interactive exhibits and the new 4D cinema experience (opening soon – check www.visitconkers.com/ thingstodo/cinema for dates).

For details of the daily programme, visit www. visitconkers.com and click on the Easter link. All of the activities are included in the admission price* and there’s a 20 per cent discount for visitors pre-booking their admission tickets online.

Chris Sturdy, Regional Operations Manager at CONKERS said: “Easter is a special time of the year at CONKERS and we’re delighted to be putting on such a selection of wonderful shows, entertainment and performances. There’s so much to do, indoors and outdoors, throughout the Easter period and we can’t wait for people to see what we have in store for them.” * Exception for a small £1 charge for the Easter Egg Challenge and a separate charge for painting a pot in the Paint a Pot Studio.

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS 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 Coalville & Hugglescote 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!

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

SH O NO WR W OO OP M EN

WINDOWS AND DOORS Suppliers and Installers of PVCU Windows, Doors and Conservatories

A local COMPANY servicing the Local Community!

FOR REPLACEMENT WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES, FASCIA AND SOFFIT

CALL PETE FOR A FREE QUOTATION ON 07496 759661

197 PARK ROAD . LOUGHBOROUGH . LE11 2HE

01509 219000

WWW.ECO2WINDOWS.CO.UK

5

6

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Work To Start On Former Bus Depot Thanks To NWLDC Grant Important historic building in Coalville to be returned to former glory £75,000 injection from council grants help to support development and job creation Six new jobs and apprenticeships to be created.

Work to give a new lease of life to a former bus depot and bring new jobs to Coalville has started, thanks in part to financial help from North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC).

The new owners of the building on Ashby Road, Deepak Mavani and partner Paul Westwood, bought the premises in 2015 and have now set about transforming it into a showroom for their quality used car business, DesirableCar.com.

Having stood empty since 2011, the building was originally built in 1925, when it was home to Midland Red bus company.

During the 1930s almost 50 buses were in operation from the site*.

With a grant of £50,000 from the NWLDC Frontage Grant Scheme

and a successful application for a £25,000 grant under the council’s Enterprising North West Leicestershire grant scheme, Mr Mavani and Mr Westwood are making improvements to the building that are in keeping with its heritage, whilst bringing it back into daily use.

Extensive changes to the inside of the building and the roof will mean this modern business can operate from the building, bringing with it seven jobs to the town. In addition, Mr Mavani has plans to grow the business, creating six new jobs and apprenticeship opportunities.

The site is of particular historic significance to the town, as the current building was built where the house of James Stephenson – son of George Stephenson, who sunk the first mine and brought the railways to Coalville – once stood.

This development, together with improved frontages along the main streets in the town centre, is improving the look and

feel of Coalville town centre as part of the NWLDC’s ‘Building Confidence in Coalville’ agenda.

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of NWLDC, said: “We have an open door policy for anyone who wants to invest in Coalville and help to build confidence in the town, so when Mr Mavani came to us with his ideas for the former bus depot, we were very glad to speak with him.

We’ve been able to support him financially, over and above the seven figure investment he is making, and also negotiate with him through our urban designer and planning department to make sure his development makes the most of this historic building on an important route into town.

We’re looking forward to this development taking shape and seeing the lights back on in this beautiful building.”

Paul Westwood added: “Coalville stood out to us as a place that was making positive changes and moving in the right direction, and this is why we’ve brought our

business here. I’m excited to be one of the people who can help bring the town up. The building is beautiful and the town is a great location in terms of the road network. We’re positive about growing our business here and want to link up with Stephenson College in terms of providing apprenticeship opportunities.

We’re thankful to the council for their support, enthusiasm and continued advice and hope local people will support our business when we open – hopefully by October this year.”

For more information on the NWLDC Frontage Grant Scheme, visit www.nwleics.gov.uk/frontages For more information about the NWLDC Enterprising North West Leicestershire grant scheme, visit www.nwleics.gov.uk/businessgrants For more information on the NWLDC Building Confidence in Coalville programme, visit www.nwleics.gov.uk/coalville

KATS ANTIQUE VINTAGE & COLLECTABLES CENTRE

s e ar er Ye H 2 ing ad Tr

A s O Se n en TV

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

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 Environmentally Friendly • All Coins chalk and mineral paint.

It is Zero VOC & Solvent Free • Militaria & Medals with no odour.

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

• Silver & Silver Plate • All interesting antiques, collectables & furniture.

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

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

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

Variable opening hours please call to enquire

www.clockrepairsleicestershire.co.uk

BENEATH THE LIGHTS

DOWNLOAD LATEST SINGLE ON SPOTIFY, ITUNES & BANDCAMP

28th April ‘The Shed’ Leicester 8.00pm 26th May ‘Glastonbudget 2017’ Icon Stage 9.15pm 25th June ‘Party in the Park’ Coalville 8th July ‘Music in the Mead’ Hinckley 1pm-3pm 14th July ‘The Old Salutation Inn’ Nottingham 8pm 15th July ‘ASHFEST’ Ashby 5.30pm-6.15pm 5th August ‘Birstall Gala’ Birstall 1.30pm 12th August ‘Corner Pin’ Donnington le Heath 9.15pm 19th Aug ‘Festival in the Rushes’ Loughborough 9.30pm 26th August ‘Nedwood Festival’ Wymeswold 27th Aug ‘Beaconfest’ Loughborough 9th Sept ‘Stumble Inn’ Long Eaton 9.00pm 23rd Dec ‘Corner Pin’ Donnington le Heath 9.15pm www.facebook.com/beneaththelights www.twitter.com/BTLBand1

5* Ramada Resort Kusadasi, Turkey Hotel Suite

250 a week

£

18 Hole Golf Resort Availability In May/Jun - Sep/Oct

Call 07540 221148 For further information or visit the website: www.ramadaresortkusadasi.com

7

8

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Thank You To Volunteers Who Helped To Give Coalville A Spring Clean!

PHOTO: Cllr John Cotterill, Chairman of North West Leicestershire District Council, Andrew Bridgen MP, Cllr Alison Smith MBE, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Community Services and volunteer litter pickers at Coalville Spring Clean A bike, a duvet and three traffic cones were amongst the rubbish collected on Saturday 4 March when volunteer litter pickers got involved with the Coalville Spring Clean.

Volunteers gathered in Memorial Square in the town, where a celebratory atmosphere set them off on their litter picking task.

After two hours of work, more than 81 bags of rubbish were collected. The litter warriors met back at Memorial Square to swap stories, with music, tea and cake supplied by Hermitage FM. The day before the community litter pick, a dedicated team of council staff and volunteers removed rubbish from around the Coalville Market café and tackled the accumulated rubbish on the railway line near the level crossing with Hotel Street. This work had been agreed with Network Rail after the area was made a priority for litter picking.

Organised by North West Leicestershire District Council as part of its ‘building confidence in Coalville’ initiative, the event was the town’s second annual community litter pick.

Councillor John Cotterill,

Chairman of North West Leicestershire District Council, said: “Litter picking as a community brings people together to do a good thing for their neighbourhood. This event in Coalville did just that – there was a great atmosphere on the day and everyone had a good time doing something positive for our town. Whilst the event was good fun, it would be great if we didn’t have to do it at all. Taking litter home or using the bins around the town is easy, but we still find that people drop their waste and leave it for others to clear up. I hope that this litter pick brings this issue to everyone’s attention and I would ask all people in our area to support us in our quest to keep our area clean.”

Closure Of Summerfield Butchers, Coalville A butcher’s shop in Coalville has been closed by North West Leicestershire District Council after Environmental Health Officers found unacceptable hygiene practices.

Following a food hygiene inspection on Thursday 30 March, the Environmental Health Team closed the Summerfield Butchers in Coalville Market on Friday 31 March 2017.

Leicester Magistrates confirmed the Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order that was served on the business in court on Monday 3 April.

Susan Sutton, Coalville resident, said: “How brilliant it is to be part of a community event for Coalville.

Litter is dangerous for wildlife, people and the whole environment.

Seeing it makes you think people don’t care but this event proves that people do care. We were so well looked after and it was a pleasure to really take part. We did some good and had some fun too!”

The court also issued a Food Condemnation Order on food that was seized from the premises. This will now be destroyed.

For more information on community litter picks, visit www.nwleics.gov.uk/litterpicks

Cross contamination when preparing cooked and uncooked food.

Gerald Spadaccini, of Leicester Road in Mountsorrel, who owns Summerfield Butchers, did not contest the orders.

Specific issues found by officers during the inspection, included:

Unsafe food preparation practices, including failing to check that meats were adequately cooked, and incorrect use of equipment Evidence of vermin, including rat droppings and the remains of a rat caught in a trap.

Contaminated hand washing facilities.

The business will remain closed until officers are satisfied that it poses no further risk to public health.

The court ordered Mr Spadaccini to pay the council’s legal and investigative costs of £2,341.

Lee Mansfield, Environmental Health Manager at North West Leicestershire District “The inspection revealed a number of food preparation and cleanliness practices to be at a very low standard, so the team opted to close the business for the protection of the public. We are disappointed that we have had to take this action, as we have been working with the business to improve its practices, including assisting with a deep clean of the premises in autumn last year.

Whilst we always support food businesses in our district to improve their hygiene practices and only use closure as a last resort where there is an imminent risk to public health, our absolute main concern in cases like this is to protect the public.”

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Coalville Mobility Centre

Riser Chairs

Incontinence

F DE X T ER

74 High Street Coalville Leicestershire LE67 3EE

Tarmacadam Block Paving Patios, Driveways, Car Park, Gravel Drives.

Tel: 01530 838299

From £395

Free delivery on 6 or more packs (within 10 mile radius)

Competitive Prices

| HOME VISITS Range of Scooters Boot Special Offers

Solva £595

Tel: 01509 504455 Mob: 07880851089

Road Special Offers

Showroom Price £1295

Mayfair £895

Showroom Price £2500

Kensington £1495

SERVICING | BATTERIES | MAINTENANCE Profiling Beds

All Aspect Of Work Carried Out. Fully Insured.

Further wide range of scooters available in store Kerb

Showroom Price £895

9

Walkers

Over Bed Tables

Hospital Beds Also Available

All at competitive prices, tailored to your needs

Newbold Landscapes Garden Services

Tel: 01530 838598 / 07761389532 Jim Harris Gardening, Fencing, Slabbing Lawns, Patio’s, Decking Large and Small Jobs undertaken

Business Cards Letterheads Compliments Slips Envelopes Embroided Clothing Website Design Graphic Design Magazines Posters Banners Folders Leaflets Call us on 01530 262020 info@norwoodpress.co.uk www.norwoodpress.co.uk Unit 1, Moore Road, South Leicester Industrial Estate, Ellistown, Leicestershire, LE67 1EU

10

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

COUNTY COUNCILLOR

MICHAEL WYATT

M: 07773 341531 E: mikewyatt1@hotmail.co.uk

Demolition Of Former Housing Flats Waste Of Taxpayers Money Greenacres a former elderly residential building on Linford Crescent is being demolished.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Michael Wyatt said, "This building should never of been up for demolition. It's a complete and uttter shame. The housing department is hell bent on wasting more council tax money instead of improving basic services which are clearly substandard. I was the only one who voted on the planning committee against this being turned into a site for several social houses after many complaints concerning anti social behaviour. Mixing doesn't work that's why we had a place for the elderly in the first place. Both Labour and Tories don't understand or choose not to. I really hope that the council look again at their current housing allocation policy which is creating more problems for our elderly who just want a peaceful place to live."

Invincible Leicestershire Pocket Two Titles at National Finals!

Leicestershire A proved they are the best pool team in the country as they were crowned National Inter-County champions to round off their unbeaten season.

Coalville Town Bowls Club Date For Your Diary May 7th Sunday A warm welcome awaits when Coalville Town bowls Club hold their 2017 Open Day. Drop in anytime between 1pm and 5pm. Coalville Town B.C. is rear of Council Offices on Whitwick Road. (LE67 3FA) Everyone is invited, of all ages, to come and try your hand at lawn bowling. Coaches and members will be there to chat and advise, and refreshments available. It's a fun way to get fit and of course most importantly to make new friends. We have lots of socials, bbqs, bingo, race nights, you can also play, indoors and out. We look forward to seeing you on the day.

Go Outdoors This Easter With Activities In Charnwood From climbing to cheerleading there are plenty of activities on offer during the Easter holidays.

Wyatt Calls On Council To Push Hard And Promote Our Town Cllr Michael Wyatt has today written to the council leader urging him to put Coalville first and to set up a business board to promote and push for better shopping facilities for our Town.

Cllr Michael Wyatt said, "Coalville Town as been neglected for far to long.

The council need to take urgent action to promote our Town instead of just tinkering with the edges. Coalville needs strong leadership not just empty words that we have experienced for many decades. One area we need to address is the lack of competition for the Precinct. What we need is a new designer outlet on the former Grieves site. This is not only help get rid of one of the last remaining derelict sites but give our Town a massive boost. If they can do it in Hinckley them I'm 100% certain we can do it here."

From Monday, April 10 until Friday, April 21 Charnwood Borough Council has activity sessions to help keep children active during the holidays.

This year there are more on offer than ever with new sessions including golf and dodgeball.

This Easter there are 25 different activities on offer.

Julie Robinson, Head of Neighbourhood Services at the Council said: “It’s great to be able to offer new activities this year, so that children get a chance to try something a bit different. We want to provide sessions that will help keep the kids active and healthy during the school holidays, but that won’t break the bank.”

Activities on offer include: Dodgeball Laser Quest Horse riding Treasure hunt Geocaching – learning how to use GPS to find hidden objects Golf Den building Archery Activities are taking place around the borough including Birstall, Thurmaston, Shepshed and Loughborough. Prices start from £3.50 and Wild Card holders can also enjoy great discounts on all activities. If you are aged five to 16, or have a disability and live or go to school in Charnwood, you can get your hands on a Wild Card by visiting www.charnwood.gov. uk/wildcardnews Activity sessions will not run on Good Friday, April 14 and Easter Monday, April 17.

For a full list of activities available this Easter, please visit, www.charnwood.gov.uk/ holidayprogrammes to book, call 01509 634561 or email active. together@charnwood.gov.uk

A New Dimension for Bathrooms in Ashby 2017 brings a new dimension to Ashby Tile & Bathrooms. Due to high demand we have streamlined our supply and installation by forming our own in-house installation team. This addition has benefitted design, supply and project management, enabling us to offer an all-in-one service.

Project manager Dan Whitworth, is proud of his highly efficient and hardworking team.

A key consideration when forming the team was that each individual takes care of a clients home as if it was their own. A further added benefit is the option of installation aftercare, to ensure bathrooms stay looking and working to a high standard.

Ashby Tile & Bathrooms are located at the top of Market Street and offer a free, no obligation survey and design service. Feel free to call on 01530 588946 or pop into the showroom.

Call us today for your free quotation

12

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Tackling Weeds 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.

Bittercress

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: 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.

Dandelion

Hairy bittercress –becoming more prevalent in gardens, Bittercress

Bel Grierson

Willowherb

Garden Designer & Plantswoman

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

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.

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

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.

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

Local family run business. Our services include installations, removals, maintenance and problem solving.

Radiators Taps Toilet systems Valves Heating pumps Pipes/leaks Power Flushout Specialist Plus many other plumbing jobs, enquiries welcome!

For enquiries Tel: 01530 589661 Engineer Mobile: 07837209415

Email: srh.plumbing@yahoo.co.uk

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

13

ily able m a F vail ts a e k c i

t

A fully-furnished 17th century family home

Q0913

Step back in time to explore our early 17th century house and its gardens and see how people lived 400 years ago.

Re-opening on Saturday 1 April, 10.30am There is an admission charge to the site, which allows unlimited repeat visits for a 12 month period. See website for details.

www.doningtonleheath.org.uk 01455 290429 • dlhmanorhouse@leics.gov.uk Manor Road, Donington le Heath, Coalville, LE67 2FW /DoningtonleHeath @DoningtonLCC

14

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

1188 Coalville Squadron - Air Cadets News

JOIN US

1188 (Coalville) Squadron is currently recruiting cadets both male and female. So if you are aged 12 – 17 and would like to join the local air cadets please come down to the squadron on a Tuesday or Thursday evening It is at the headquarters on Forest Road in Coalville, it starts at 7.15pm until 9.30pm.

Presentation Night On Tuesday 14 March cadets from 1188 (Coalville) Squadron Air Training Corps were awarded trophies and certificates at their annual Presentation Night.

Every year the hard work of the cadets is recognised with awards at the presentation night and this year was no exception. The trophies and certificates were presented to the cadets, in front of their families by Councillor Alison Smith MBE, Deputy Leader of the council and armed forces champion, Squadron Leader Rayson-Flynn, the squadron’s wing staff officer, Wing Warrant Officer Dominic Chisholm, Flight Lieutenant Williams (retired) and the family of Myles Murray, a former cadet non-commissioned officer and Flight Lieutenant Harrison-Page, the commanding officer.

There were certificates for RAFA ‘s Appreciation, a BTEC, wing blues for representing wing at sport, 1st aid, marksmen shooting, swimming proficiency, 1st Class cadet badges and staff certificates The trophies awarded were: The Vin Shepherd Cup for Best Attendance to Corporal Sharlot

The British Legion Annual Attendance Shield to Cadet Sweeney The Community Award to Cadet Suffolk

The John Bancroft Endeavour Trophy to Cadet Price Most Enterprising Cadet to Cadet Fowkes Best Sports Cadet to Cadet Harrison

The Sharlot Hammond Trophy for Adventure Training to Cadet Needham The 1188 Cadet, Drill and Ceremonial Award to Sergeant Potter

The Myles Murray Trophy, for the smartest uniform to Flight Sergeant Setchell The Squadron Shooting Award to Cadet Stevens

The Leon Poxon Memorial Air Rifle Trophy to Cadet Harrison The Most Promising New Cadet Trophy to Corporal Baker The RAFA Cup, for Cadet of the Year to Sergeant Eyres

The padre, Rev Captain Martin Joss was presented with a leaving present. He has been the squadron padre since 10th July 2008, he has carried out numerous duties over that time enrolling lots of cadets and even attending annual camp. He is moving to a new parish, Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire. He said “It had been a privilege to watch cadets grow up into responsible young people.” The squadron wishes him well for the future.

Flight Lieutenant Harrison-Page said "It was a really enjoyable night, it is very important to recognise the achievements of the cadets and for their families to be able to show their support for them. It is also important to recognise the hard work and commitment of the staff.”

C I N M O T A G N DY DONIN e East se to one of th st o l c s , o l l k h i Par gh ays rollin onington uits. It pl ple of t s d mi rt is D irc s a cou ing c o ted a o be u Situa nds Airp otor rac ends (pl e’s sure t . a m s k r Midl premier ace wee ), so the ost taste s r l s ’ m s a tiv to suit UK merou c fes to nu er musi ppening summthing ha e som

M

usic lovers can enjoy rock at Download Festival in June, or the Little Mix Summer Shout Out concert one month later.

On-track action on two or four wheels takes place most weekends between March/ October.

Witnessing classic cars, trucks, superbikes or touring cars in fierce competition is a fantastic day out, as I discovered last year. It was the traditional April visit to “Donny” by the Dunlop BSA Touring Car Championship (BTCC). My daughter Sarah had booked us a parking space at Starkey’s Bridge, where you can view from the comfort of your car if you wish. It provided fantastic viewing, watching the cars stream towards you through the tricky Craner Curves towards the Old Hairpin. It’s easy to follow what’s going on elsewhere around the track, because live coverage is

broadcast over a huge video screen just opposite.

There are plenty of amenities and food outlets dotted around the circuit, plus fun fairs, a huge Scalextric and stalls over at the paddock area.

It is was a full day’s racing, with the three BTCC rounds sandwiched between support events featuring other types of cars- F1 style Formula Fords, Renault Clio’s, and Ginetta sports cars (both junior and senior classes). There’s no chance of getting bored!

Full of enthusiasm, we returned to the circuit in March 2017 for the BTCC season launch day.

BTCC Series Director Alan Gow said: “We believe this season will set the bar even higher, with 16 race-winners highlighting the strength in depth throughout the field. Furthermore, attracting two new manufacturers to the grid demonstrates the ever-growing appeal of the BTCC both on and off track”.

The launch day gives fans the opportunity to watch the cars doing test laps, a taster for the coming season of competition. With 350bhp turbo charged 2-litre engines and top speeds of +150mph, the BTCC is renowned for its close competition, bumper-tobumper action and delivering drama and excitement by the bucket load. This season 32 drivers will be competing in 10 marques of saloon cars, the sort you see every day on the roads. As usual there’s a mix of experienced and new-to-theformula drivers, some moving up from successful seasons in the Clio’s, Ginetta’s and Formula Fords that supported the BTCC races in 2016 .

The “new for 2017” Vauxhall Astra’s will be going head-tohead with BMW, Toyota, Ford, VW, Mercedes, Subaru, MG, Audi and Honda models. 2016 champion “Flash” Gordon Shedden returns in his Honda

Civic Type R, but quickest at the test day was Tom Ingram’s Toyota Avensis (pictured above). It looks as if we’re in for some close competition in 2017, with just one second covering the test session lap times of the top 18 drivers.

If this whets your appetite, BTCC 2017 Round 2 takes place at Donington Park 15/16 April.

Go to www.donington-park. co.uk for details. It is an ideal venue to get your first taste of live motorsport- easy to get to, and very well organised. The other nine BTCC rounds are held at circuits around the UK, three races at each one. These are broadcast live, together with extensive highlights programmes, on ITV4. Further information is available at www.btcc.net.

PAUL TAYLOR & SARAH TAYLOR (Photo credits go to btcc.net and Paul Taylor)

16

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Raising Funds For Rainbows Hospice Large hanging baskets (5 No. available) Beautifully filled with primroses/pansies £6 each Once-seen DVDs, assorted titles (38 No.) £25 for the lot Contact Vicki on 01530 230389.

LoyalFree

The App For Supporting Local Independent Business!

What is LoyalFree?

LoyalFree is a brand new exciting mobile phone app in the East Midlands created by Sophie Hainsworth and Jason Nesbitt.

We are passionate to get people out of large chains and into local independent businesses instead.

We're doing this with one mobile phone app used to find and collect rewards at lots of different types of local businesses.

Who are we?

We are two young entrepreneurs determined to create something which makes a difference to society. Jason is a De Montfort University Computer Science graduate with previous experience at Experian and AstraZeneca, whereas Sophie is a Sheffield University Economics & Management graduate who specialises in digital marketing and has previous experience at KPMG. LoyalFree Ltd was created 6 months ago and is growing at a phenomenal pace in the East Midlands.

Coalville Cadet Attends Regional Aviation Awareness Course Flight Sergeant Ewan Setchell is the first cadet from 1188 (Coalville) Sqn to attend the course, which was held at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire.

The Regional Aviation Awareness Course is an intensive period of training in which the Principles of Flight are demonstrated and practiced by the cadets in a very realistic environment in just 7 hours. The course provides cadets with essential airmanship knowledge and practice in addition to hands on experience using the Central and East Region Aviation Awareness Interactive Demonstrator, a flight simulator. The course is presented by Air Cadet Organisation flying instructors to a standard which provides a strong sense of achievement to the cadets matching their capabilities. The course provides basic airmanship awareness that will help to prepare cadets for their future flying courses.

Flight Sergeant Setchell is really interested in flying and was keen to make the most of this course.

He said “The day started off with a PowerPoint lecture on airmanship discussing the principles of flight and manoeuvring abilities of both aeroplanes and helicopters, followed by another PowerPoint on situational awareness, before moving onto the flight simulators.

The Flight Simulators provided me with a very realistic flying experience, allowing me to handle a Vigilant T1 (powered glider) and practice manoeuvres as discussed in the lectures from the safety of the briefing room. I perfected my flying skills before attempting to complete a full circuit around the airfield. Upon completing the course I was issued with a certificate, I would definitely recommend this course to other cadets”

Where can I use it?

If you're in Leicester check out St Martin’s Coffee, Coffee Counter, The Beauty Box Shop and Set amongst lots of others. If you're over towards Loughborough check out Elf Foods, A Perfect Blend and Eclectic. There are also businesses in smaller villages using LoyalFree, including Shepshed and Markfield. New businesses are signing up daily!

Why not get in touch and suggest one you'd like to see on there?

Each business has a different reward up for grabs and you scan a unique code on your phone when purchasing in order to collect stamps towards awesome freebies. Rewards include free hot drinks, free food and discounts off beauty treatments and gifts.

Sounds pretty good doesn't it?

What does the business get?

Businesses who offer the loyalty scheme gain from new and repeat customers, in depth user analytics (such as their busiest times) and great brand exposure

at a much cheaper price than traditional advertising. Often, as a smaller business, it can be hard to compete with the advertising budgets and physical spaces chains are able to command. We are determined to change this by making people aware of the other options available to them and encourage them to shop local.

Sounds amazing! How do I get it?

If you want to start collecting rewards simply download the app by searching for ‘LoyalFree’ on the app store. Or, if you’re a business interested in gaining more customers through implementing the app just get in touch with us by emailing hello@loyalfree.co.uk

17

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

DESIGN & PRINT SOLUTIONS Business Cards - Leaflets - Brochures - Posters - Roller Banners Postcards - Letterheads - Compliment Slips - Magazines - Menus NCR Pads - Envelopes - Folders - Greeting Cards - Calendars

55

BUSINESS CARDS - 1000

£

Width 85mm x Height 55mm - Bleed 3mm - Trim Marks

• Full Colour • Double Sided • 400gsm Matt Laminated

A5 LEAFLETS - 5000

*Based on PDF print ready artwork.

Width 148mm x Height 210mm - Bleed 3mm - Trim Marks

• Full Colour • Double Sided • 150gsm Gloss

*

80

£

*

*Based on PDF print ready artwork.

75*

A4 NCR DUPLICATE - 10 PADS

£

Width 210mm x Height 297mm - Bleed 3mm - Trim Marks

• Single Colour Black • Single Sided • Glued In Pads Of 50’s

A4 NCR DUPLICATE - 20 PADS Width 210mm x Height 297mm - Bleed 3mm - Trim Marks

• Single Colour Black • Single Sided • Glued In Pads Of 50’s

+VAT

*Based on PDF print ready artwork.

100*

£

+VAT

*Based on PDF print ready artwork.

01530 262020 | info@norwoodpress.co.uk | www.norwoodpress.co.uk NorwoodPress |  @norwoodpress Norwood Press, Unit 1, Moore Road, South Leicester Industrial Estate, Ellistown, Leicestershire, LE67 1EU

䴀䔀䰀䰀伀刀匀 ☀ 䬀䤀刀䬀

嘀䄀䰀唀䄀吀䤀伀一 䐀䄀夀

䌀漀愀氀瘀椀氀氀攀 匀琀 䐀愀瘀椀搀猀 䌀栀甀爀挀栀 䜀爀攀攀渀栀椀氀氀 刀漀愀搀 䰀䔀㘀㜀 㐀刀䰀

吀甀攀猀搀愀礀 ㈀㔀 䄀瀀爀椀氀 ㌀ 䴀愀礀 ㄀ ⸀ ⴀ ㄀㈀渀漀漀渀

Here’s a great way to make more storage space...

Install a loft ladder and make more use of your loft!

Loft ladder, light & Switch plus 50sqft of

flooring from as little as £287+VAT which

includes FREE fitting in less than a day.

Over 1500 people have chosen us to fit their loft ladder, this is because we offer:

䘀爀攀攀 猀瀀攀挀椀愀氀椀猀琀 愀甀挀琀椀漀渀 瘀愀氀甀愀琀椀漀渀猀 漀昀 愀渀琀椀焀甀攀猀Ⰰ 挀漀氀氀攀挀琀愀戀氀攀猀Ⰰ 樀攀眀攀氀氀攀爀礀 ☀ 洀攀搀愀氀猀⸀

• A FREE home visit.

• A FREE written quotation.

• Fully guaranteed.

• A large selection of ladders to choose from.

洀攀氀氀漀爀猀愀渀搀欀椀爀欀⸀挀漀洀 ㄀㄀㔀 㤀㜀㤀 吀䠀䔀 䄀唀䌀吀䤀伀一 䠀伀唀匀䔀

䜀刀䔀䜀伀刀夀 匀吀刀䔀䔀吀

一伀吀吀䤀一䜀䠀䄀䴀 一䜀㜀 ㈀一䰀

more than “cos t effective s pace”

Call us now on: 0800 03 59 880 or 0116 401 5461 Or visit: www.morethanloftladders.co.uk

18

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Latest News From

W

elcome to this new column. I hope that you will find this to be informative, interesting and a column that you will look forward to reading each month.

My name is Ruth Lane. I have been a Trustee since 1991 and I am the current Chairman for Woodside Animal Centre. This is the name of the RSPCA Leicestershire Branch home. The Leicestershire Branch of the RSPCA (Charity number: 222621) is an independently registered branch of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. To set the scene, I’ll briefly outline the history of the National Society and then tell you how Woodside fits into the bigger picture.

LOCAL

MAGAZINES

The RSPCA was originally founded in 1824. It developed out of the first anti-cruelty bill, which was introduced by Richard Martin MP, who would later earn the nickname of 'Humanity Dick'.

The group also included William Wilberforce MP (already famous for his efforts to abolish slavery in the British Empire) and the Reverend Arthur Broome. The Act was passed in Parliament on 22 July 1822 and was against cruelty to farm animals, particularly cattle.

The group assembled at the "Old Slaughters" Coffee House in London to create a society with the will and authority to enforce the new law. The SPCA, the first animal welfare society to be set up in the world, was founded on 16 June 1824, and was subsequently granted its royal status by Queen Victoria in 1840.

The RSPCA is a trusted and wellknown charity and the branches support the National Society on a local level. As a branch we are responsible for the operational running and financing of this local charity and it costs us approximately £19,000 each week. The branch moved to the site on Scudamore Road in 1974 and meant that the animals could be cared for on one site.

The redevelopment of the site has taken us many years and funds had to be raised locally.

Not every branch of the RSPCA has an animal centre so these branches have to rely on private boarding kennels and foster carers to house the animals in their care. At Leicester we have

CIRCULATION

50 ,800

Woodside which enables people who wish to adopt a new pet, the opportunity to look around. We are open to public every day and welcome potential owners to take the time to visit. The centre is our focal point.

Woodside provides accommodation, care and enrichment for unwanted and abandoned animals within Leicestershire and Rutland. We are a successful and busy centre.

We don’t turn animals away and try to help where we can. We take in unwanted pets for rehoming and we board animals for the Inspectorate that are victims of cruelty or neglect, ensuring that they improve in health and are fully rehabilitated with a view to rehoming them once the courts have decided what is to happen to them. Sadly more of the animals we take in seem to need more and more veterinary assistance and greater input for training before we consider them suitable for rehoming. However we regard this as a vital part of our work and our dedicated and trained staff alongside our volunteers, work wonders in this respect.

Here at Woodside, we care for dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and birds including ex battery farm chickens. Most of these animals are only with us for a short while. They go through a rigorous assessment to ensure that we know as much as possible about them. Our mission is to find each of them their loving ‘forever’ homes. We also help to reunite

lost companion animals with their worried owners.

We cannot, however, do this alone and there are many ways in which you can get involved and help us at Woodside. You can fundraise on our behalf – we are always pleased to hear of the varied ways that our supporters raise funds for us. You may wish to volunteer your time, either as an animal based volunteer or as part of our administration team. It may be that you’d prefer to help out at one of our events or in one of our 4 Leicestershire charity shops.

There are lots of ways where you can make a real difference to the lives of animals within Leicestershire and Rutland.

It is important to remember that Woodside is a charity in its own right with a defined geographical area within which to fund-raise.

We appreciate the efforts made by individuals, businesses and groups of local animal lovers. We always welcome people to visit us to see the work we do – if you haven’t been, do please pay us a visit. I have shown people around the site who have arrived with the misconceptions that Woodside is a sad place. I’ve always said that the sadness is left at the gate as, from the moment animals pass through our gates, their needs as individuals are catered for. As Trustees, staff and volunteers we remain focussed on our mission to promote kindness and to prevent cruelty to animals and to work towards finding the animals in our care their forever homes.

CALL DAWN OR SARAH NOW ON

0800 6446 150

Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston, Swithland, Newtown Linford, Woodhouse & Woodhouse Eaves - 5800 Ratby, Kirby Muxloe & Leicester Forest East - 6500 | Birstall & Wanlip - 5600 | Rothley & Mountsorrel 5600 Shepshed - 5800 | Coalville - 7500 | Loughborough - 7000 | Ashby & Measham - 7000

No Contracts - Free Advert Design - Leaflet Delivery Service

Advertise Where You Want, When You Want

OpenBoxPromotions @Openboxpromo

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Coalville Market Have you visited Coalville Market recently?

You’ll be pleasantly surprised....

New stalls added regularly • Quality fresh food • Expert knowledge and advice • Unique and interesting items • Refuel in our welcoming cafe

Call 01530 454545 for more information DON’T FORGET! FREE PARKING IN ALL COALVILLE CAR PARKS AFTER 3PM We’re open Tue 8am – 2pm | Fri and Sat 8am – 4pm www.nwleics.gov.uk/coalvillemarket @coalvillemarket

Coalville Indoor Market

Coalville Market advert 105mm x 148mm.indd 1

23/03/2017 14:25:25

Services Include:

Domestic call out - £40 for the first hour, £25 an hour thereafter All plumbing work undertaken (inc. power flush)

Please call 07392 Gas Servicing

Boiler service / fire service / has heather service - £55 Boiler & one appliance (inc. unvented cylinder) - £75 Extra appliance whilst on site - £20

Landlord Checks

Boiler service & check hob / cooker & certificate - £65 Boiler and fire service - £85

Commercial / Burners

Please call 07392 112521 for a quote

112521 for a quote LPG

Boiler service / fire service / gas heather service - £65 Boiler & one appliance (inc. unvented cylinder) - £85 Extra appliance whilst on site - £30 All LPG works, repairs etc - £35 per hour

Light Commercial / Oil

Boiler service - £110 All repairs etc - £35 per hour

19

20

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

Coalville Clubs & Groups

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

Coalville Rugby Club

01530 812090 Memorial Ground, Hall Lane, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 5PF ---------------------------------------------------

Coalville Town Hockey Club

Matt Howells - 07980449524 King Edward VII Science & Sports College, Warren Hills Road, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 4UW ---------------------------------------------------

Coalville Town Football Club

Visit www.coalvilletownfc.co.uk Owen Street Sports Ground Owen Street, Coalville, LE67 3DA ---------------------------------------------------

Coalville Heritage Society

c/o The Secretary 125 Highfield Street, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3BR ---------------------------------------------------

‘OLD 'n' BOLD CLUB’

01530 814718 Classic - Vintage Car and motorcycle meeting every Friday morning 10am till 2pm aimed at retired people and shift workers. The Victoria Bikers Pub, Whitwick Road, Coalville, LE67 3FA ---------------------------------------------------

Whitwick & District U3A

Richard Collier - 01530 249377 (Membership Secretary) for postal address details or email mem_sec@whitwicku3a.org.uk ---------------------------------------------------

1188 (Coalville) Squadron

We meet at the headquarters on Forest Road in Coalville on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7.15pm until 9.30pm. Find out more http://1188sqnatc.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------

Coalville Army Cadets

ACF Hut, Waterworks Road, Coalville, LE67 4HZ Meet Wednesdays at 19:00 - 21:30 ---------------------------------------------------

Hermitage Harriers RC

01530 811215 We meet at the Leisure Centre at 6.45pm for a 7pm run on both Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

Hermitage Leisure Centre, Silver Street, Whitwick, Coalville, LE67 5EU ---------------------------------------------------

The Rotary Club Of Coalville

David Beaumont (Membership) davidbeaumont57@hotmail.com We meet at 7pm on Mondays.

Please check to make sure a meeting is taking place, as sometimes we are visiting elsewhere. The Hermitage Park Hotel, Whitwick Road, Coalville, LE67 3FA. ---------------------------------------------------

The Inner Wheel Club Of Coalville

We meet on the third Tuesday of the month (except July and August) at 7:00pm at La Torre Restuarant.

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

Coalville Gymnastics Club

01530 811001 coalville.gymnastics@ talktalkbusiness.net Unit 8 Snibston Drive, Off Ravenstone Road, Coalville, LE67 3NQ

Coalville Ramblers

Anne Donegan - 01283 760348 publicity@coalvilleramblers.org.uk www.coalvilleramblers.org.uk where our programme of walks is available to view. You can also join online by following the link.

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

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

Whitwick Methodist Church Drop In Cafe

Deacon Barbara Crockett 07881 408488 We meet every 2nd and 4th Monday of every month for refreshments and a chat, from 10.00 until 12.00 at the Whitwick Methodist Church, The Market Place, Whitwick (bottom end of Hall Lane). Everyone will be made especially welcome for coffee or tea, with home made cakes and good company.

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

Alternative Book Club Coalville

Helena Lomax helenalomax@btconnect.com We meet on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm at The Hermitage Hotel Coalville.

Membership is free! Books are chosen by members plus we have a couple of months where we all read and review a book of our choice. We also have a very popular book swap/share at the end of each meeting. We also have a Facebook page.

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

Coalville Male Voice Choir

www.coalvillemvc.co.uk Coalville Male Voice Choir will be pleased to welcome singers any Thursday evenings 7.00pm at Hall Lane, Methodist Church our practice venue.

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

Coalville & District Photographic Society

We meet every other Monday (next meetings 3rd, 17th, 31st Oct, 14th, 28th Nov) at 7.30pm at the Marlene Reid Centre, Coalville.

All levels are welcome, please visit www.sites.google.com/site/ coalvilleanddistrictcameraclub for more details.

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

Whitwick Retired People Fellowship

Secretary - Mrs B King 01530 835981 We meet at Whitwick Methodist Church, Hall Lane, Whitwick, every Tuesday 1:30 to 4pm. It is an independent group which meets for social interaction, tea and biscuits, cost £1, first visit free. Outings, which are often subsidised, are arranged at intervals throughout the year and a Christmas lunch is held for the members in December. A mini bus can be organised for attendance with the Marlene Reid Centre, if required, this needs to be booked direct with Marlene Reid the previous day.

North West Leicestershire Model Engineers

07922692076 We are a model engineering club and run steam trains on our track at hermitage recreation ground.

You do not have to own a loco to join as the club have there own engines which members can use.

We steam on 3rd Sunday and also on other days why not come and join us.

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

Whitwick Netball Club

We are a friendly bunch of ladies of varying ages and fitness who meet for training on Wednesday evenings 6.30pm8.00pm at Castle Rock High School Sports Hall. For further details please contact Abby Chambers via our Facebook page, search for Whitwick Netball Club or pop along.

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

Broom Leys Choral Society

Meet on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm in Whitwick Methodist Church, Hall Lane.

We are a mixed choir and would welcome new members especially tenors and basses.

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

Musical Theatre School (MTS) 07969688215 musicaltheatreschl@gmail.com www.musicaltheatreschl.co.uk Singing, Dancing and Drama every Tuesday at Marlborough Square Church for ages 4 years up to adults. Timetable can be found on the website and contact Steph for further information.

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

Christ Church

London Road, Coalville.

Every Thursday morning the church will be open from 9:30 to 12. Tea/ coffee, a snack and chat will be available in the meeting room.

Please join us, bring a friend. We look forward to seeing you.

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

Hugglescote & Doningtonle-Heath Heritage Society

hugglescotedoningtonheritage@ gmail.com www.facebook.com/HADLHHS We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month, 7:30pm-9:00pm at Hugglescote Community Centre, Grange Road, Hugglescote LE67 2BR We are actively seeking new members to help run our programme of events, and record the history of the villages.

Thursday 13th April The 1620's House. A talk

by Richard Knox, Heritage Development Manager, Leicestershire County Council on the recent refurbishment of Donington-le-Heath Manor House.

Saturday 6th May Drop-in session, 10:00am-12:00pm Thursday 10th May Village History Walk and Talk.

Meet at the Community Centre at 7:15pm for a guided walk around the history of the villages.

Saturday 3rd June Drop-in session, 10:00am-12:00pm Date to be confirmed Summer Open Day - Watch this space for further details of our summer open day and photograph exhibition!

----------------------------------------------Scotlands Bowling Club Sue on 01530 810026 Steve on 01530 224128 We are a small friendly club we would welcome new players or anyone wishing to have a try at playing bowls. Our new season will begin at the end of April at Scotlands playing fields Forest Road. Our club nights are Tuesdays and Fridays 5-7pm.

LOOKING TO TRY LOCAL ADVERTISING? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

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.

21

22

WANTING TO SEND IN AN ARTICLE ? SEE PAGE 3 FOR DETAILS

COUNTY COUNCILLOR

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

T: 01530 832622 E: terri.eynon@leics.gov.uk

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

ANDREW BRIDGEN

DR TERRI EYNON

End of Term The current County Council met for the last time in this electoral cycle on the 23rd of March. It felt a bit like the last day of school.

There were presentations and goodbyes to retiring Councillors.

There was even one of those photographs with the whole class standing in three long rows. It was a gentle meeting too, with politicians on all sides voting together on important issues.

We found out afterwards that, down in London, our parliamentary colleagues had been locked down for their safety. That very afternoon public servants and innocent passers-by were lying, maimed and dying, on Westminster Bridge.

Parliamentary leaders from all political parties have described the Westminster events as an attack of democracy. The terrorist organisation ISIS claimed the murderer as one of their ‘soldiers’. As if this is a battle in some kind of war.

Richard III was the last English king to die in battle. Before Richard, it was custom and practice to change the English government by indulging in a ritual bloodbath.

In the seventeenth century, the English Civil War saw Parliament pitched against the Crown.

Roundheads fought Cavaliers.

Families were divided by politics and brother fought brother for the right to rule our country.

This way of changing government is obviously cruel, wasteful and inefficient. It is hard to understand why anyone would prefer the battle-axe over the ballot box. But clearly some people are not convinced.

Countries such as Syria are being fought over with appalling consequences for ordinary people. Here in England, Jo Cox MP was murdered by someone who chose to use violence rather than his vote or his voice.

Democracy: use it or lose it Democracy has been described as ‘war without the blood’.

In the run up to the County Council elections, politicians from various political parties will be on the streets, fighting for every vote, campaigning to win. The difference between democratic battles and real ones should be obvious. Win or lose, once the vote is over and the people have decided, your elected representatives have to shake hands and get on with the business of running the Country or the Council.

Take back control Is that all you have to do, then?

Just vote once every four years or so and then leave it up to someone else to make all the decisions? No, most certainly not.

How will your Councillors know what matters to you if you don't tell them?

There are various ways to get your voice heard. You can ask a question at any of the District and County Council bodies with 5 clear days notice. You can work with your neighbours to send a petition to the Council on a particular issue. If you are not sure how to do either of these, you can get your Councillor to ask a question on your behalf.

At the end of my first term as a County Councillor, I am grateful to everyone who has written to me, lobbied me, phoned me or even stopped me in the street to tell me their views. I have to thank all the local experts on heritage, highways and housing for their help in putting together questions to Council and comments to Cabinet. Democracy isn't perfect but it does depend on everyone being prepared to use words instead of weapons.

Don’t forget to vote With the weather improving, if you are off on holiday in early May, don’t forget you have until 5pm on Tuesday 18th April to apply for a postal vote. Download the forms at www.gov.uk/government/ publications/apply-for-a-postalvote or get them from the Council Offices in Coalville.

The Chancellor delivered his last spring budget which contained lots of good economic news post Brexit. The Project Fear campaign run by the Remain side of the argument has now been completely discredited and our forecast economic growth rate has been projected upwards yet again and at the same time the borrowing estimates were projected downwards. Locally the drop in our unemployment rate since 2010 is amongst the largest in the Country showing a decrease of about 75%.

One aspect of the Budget I did not agree with however was the proposed increase in the rate of national insurance for the selfemployed. This is set at a lower level for a reason and that is the lack of job security and access to sick and holiday pay when you are self-employed. I immediately made my views known that I opposed this move, I believe the Chancellor did the right thing in dropping the proposal.

I recently responded to the consultation on the HS2 phase 2 route changes. As I made clear at the time, the first route for HS2 was completely unacceptable and would have seen hundreds of job losses and blighted homes.

Unfortunately HS2 have now put forward a route which also creates a significant amount of blight and potential job loss.

I have asked HS2 if there are alternative routes it could travel through North West Leicestershire and I believe it could move further East without any engineering issues. HS2 believe it would be more costly and add to the journey time however I am not convinced by that argument.

The underlying issue however is that there is no good route for this railway to pass through North West Leicestershire As I have explained before, I do not think that HS2 can possibly justify the cost and disruption it is causing and there are far more effective ways of spending this money. I will therefore continue to press for disruption to be kept to a minimum and of course campaign to have the whole scheme scrapped altogether.

Another issue I have been working on is school funding.

I have been fighting for more equal funding for many years as Leicestershire is in the bottom two funded counties overall. Although the new formula would represent an increase overall for the District, I remain concerned that it appears

to only be the Senior Schools that are benefitting and our Primary Schools look set to lose out. It is also not achieving what I believe the objective should be from a fairer funding formula ,as funding in Leicester for instance is set to increase by more than Leicestershire when there is already a huge funding disparity per pupil between the County and the City.

I am currently working with the f40 fairer funding group, chaired by Leicestershire Council Councillor Ivan Ould, to try and get these proposals looked at again. I recently met with the Prime Minister Theresa May to discuss the concerns of the f40 members and to offer an updated alternative formula which the f40 group will be submitting to the Department for Education shortly for their consideration.

I have also met with the Secretary of State Justine Greening this month to discuss the National Funding Formula Consultation to ensure that the new methodology due to be considered will mean an end to historical unfairness and underfunding for certain schools, giving parents the confidence that every child will have an equal opportunity to fulfil their potential.

Finally, we have had the welcome news that Burton Hospital’s A and E unit will not be downgraded and will remain open 24 hours a day. I know this was an issue that concerned many constituents who signed the petition to save it and I am pleased that after a robust campaign, we have managed to have this proposal shelved.

That was due to be the end of the column however shortly after writing this, a terrorist attack was launched on Parliament.

Innocent people have been killed and injured and a brave Police Constable whose job it is to guard Parliament was stabbed to death. This was an attack on our democracy and our values.

The day after Parliament sat to show that this sick and depraved behaviour will not stop our democracy. My thoughts are prayers are with all of those killed and injured and I pay tribute to the Police and Security Services who do so much to protect us.

Parliament and our country are always at their best when things are at their worst. The way we can all do our bit to ensure the terrorists do not win is to " keep calm and carry on" . Advice which has served our nation well in previous times of adversity.

BUY NOW

PAY LATER

“ W E W ER E D EL I G H T ED W I T H T HE R E S ULT S , W E AR E T HE EN V Y OF T HE N EI G HB OUR HOOD! ” Mr and Mrs Smith

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 L L TH E DRI VE WAY, PATH AN D PATIO SPECIALISTS TODAY!

0800 007 5733 LINES OPEN 7AM - 10PM OR VISIT W WW.RESINDRIVES .CO.UK

INSTALLERS

NATIONWIDE

live happy! with

Slimming World save £5

join now!

Just £9.95 on week one then £4.95 each week

MONDAY 9:30am IBSTOCK

Ibstock Central Club 28 Central Avenue Tel Natalie 07525 617287 NEW VENUE *morning group*

MONDAY 5.30pm and 7.30pm WHITWICK

Hall Lane Methodist Church Near Tressall Road Tel Sharon 07855 250017 *open Bank Holiday Mondays*

Tuesday 5pm and 7pm ASHBY The Royal Hotel Station Road Tel Rich 07869 433653

WEDNESDAY 9.30am and 11.30am ELLISTOWN

Ellistown Working Mens Club Whitehill Road Parking at rear via Parker Drive Tel Natalie 07525 617287 *morning group*

WEDNESDAY 5.30pm and 7.30pm ELLISTOWN

Ellistown Working Mens Club Whitehill Road Parking at rear via Parker Drive Tel Natalie 07525 617287

THURSDAY 5.30pm and 7.15pm COALVILLE

Marlene Reid Centre Belvoir Road on corner of Melbourne Street Tel Sharon 07855 250017

Saturday 8am and 10am ASHBY The Royal Hotel Station Road Tel Rich 07869 433653

slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000