December 2018 - Coalville & Hugglescote Community Eye

COMMUNITY EYE Delivered Monthly, Free To 8000 Homes & Businesses

Coalville Teenager Thomas Giles

A E VI IL S OB EW M N B| ST E TE | W LA NT I PR

COALVILLE & HUGGLESCOTE

December 2018

Thringstone Primary School

Gets Selected As A FedEx Ball Kid At Nitto ATP World Tour Finals

Celebrates More Sporting Achievements

Shop Local In Free Car Parks This Christmas

At Coalville And Ashby Car Parks Every Saturday Till 27th December

Peace Garden Plaque

A Permanent Mark Of Remembrance

£7

NEW BOILER

FROM

Leicestershire’s local installer of boilers &central heating for over 20 years.

ONE OFF PAYMENT

Protecting Your Family's Inheritance

By Kornerstone Legal Services

FREE survey & fixed price quote

.00

Call 0116 287 8000

PER WEEK

ukgasservices.co.uk

£1,620*

(Inc. VAT)

| *See website for Ts & Cs.

Includes fitting, up to 10 years warranty & Price match guarantee.

5663

EARAXXX- 08/2018

2

Thinking of moving?

Talk to Your Move Coalville on 01530 834474 or visit your-move.co.uk

It pays to be with Your Move

D

BRITISH S TO TA

ARD ND

CERT IFI E

AA local firm localfamily family firm BSI

3 6 2 1:1

98

CARERS

0

WANTED

• UPVC Door lock specialists • Cylinders, mechanisms, handles and letterboxes • Jammed, stiff to lock / unlock doors repaired

CUT OUT AND KEEP

• All types of locks opened, repaired, supplied and fitted • Police approved and CRB checked • Security upgrades / burglary repairs

24 HOUR EMERGENCY CALL OUT

01530 251 310 www.dm-locksmiths.co.uk

In the Whitwick/Thringstone/Coalville areas Shepshed Carers have proudly provided high quality domiciliary care for adults in our local community and surrounding area for over 20 years.

We are now looking to recruit enthusiastic people to join us at our highly respected care cooperative; experience is not necessary We can offer you 

Attractive and competitive pay, including travel minutes and miles



Flexible shift patterns



Full training PLEASE NOTE: Own transport is required SHEPSHED CARERS Field House, 19-23 Field Street, Shepshed, Leics. LE12 9AL T: 01509 505243 E: administration@shepshedcarers.co.uk

3

Contact Us

For advertising, leaflet delivery and articles, get in touch with the details below.

Articles

communityeye@openboxpromotions.co.uk 0800 6446 150

Advertising

Dawn Harris 0800 6446 150 dawn@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Distribution

Andrew Lewis 07504634838 andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Visit Our Website

You can find out more about our advertising plans, circulation, leaflet delivery, submit articles and bookings. www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

Write To Us

OpenBox Promotions Ltd 42 Forest Rise Kirby Muxloe Leicestershire LE9 2HQ

Star Wars Toys Return Home To Fans And Creators To Great Acclaim Almost 2,500 people flocked to the former Palitoy factory in Coalville recently to see a display of vintage Star Wars toys and memorabilia.Visitors to the 'May the Toys Be With You' exhibition between the 2nd - 10th November included dedicated fans young and old, as well as many people who had worked at the factory when the Star Wars toys were made there.

The exhibition, brought to Coalville by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) in partnership with Coalville Heritage Society, showcased the remarkable collection of Matt Fox, a Star Wars fanatic who has collected everything from figurines to film posters over the last decades.

Like & Follow Us

Throughout the week, local people enjoyed special talks from Craig Stevens, author of The Star Wars Phenomenon in Britain and Geoff Maisey, former marketing manager for Palitoy, as well as a Q&A session with a panel of former Palitoy staff sharing their memories of making Star Wars toys in Coalville.

Next Issue Out

A highlight of the week was the valuation day, which was busy with people bringing in their vintage toys, and Star Wars and Palitoy memorabilia to be valued by professional auctioneers.

facebook.com/openboxpromotions openboxpromo

Deadline Date: 21st December Delivery Date: 14th January Deadline and delivery dates are subject to change without prior notice.

Read Online

Scan the QR code below to read this magazine and our other magazines online.

Not got a QR scanner or not working?

Use this link: https://issuu.com/norwoodpress The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the original advertisers & contributors and do not necessarily represent OpenBox Promotions Ltd. OpenBox 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

Collector Matt Fox said: "I wanted to thank the town of Coalville for turning out to visit May The Toys Be With You at the site of the former Palitoy factory. It was fantastic to be able to share my collection here, and reading the visitor book was one of the proudest moments of my life. Page after page of kind, happy, and positive comments.Thank you!"

Steve Duckworth, Chairman of the Coalville Heritage Society, added: "The Coalville Heritage Society has been over the moon, which Star Wars moon we will let you decide, with the response to the 'May the Toys be with You' exhibition. It has shown how much interest there is in the Palitoy company and factory; a place the BBC referred to as a 'gold mine on top of a coal mine'. Matt’s collection certainly scored gold with the visitors.The Society is proud to have worked with both the NWLDC and Matt Fox, and also Bob Brechin who was the chief toy designer at the factory. Hopefully the partnership will produce future Palitoy projects celebrating this important Coalville industry and story.”

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of NWLDC said: “There wasn’t a question in our minds when we were asked to support this exhibition, and we’re delighted that so many people have had the chance to see it back in the place where many of the Star Wars toys were made and marketed. Palitoy was a big part of Coalville life for many years, with people working at the factory and enjoying the toys they produced. It was really special to bring the exhibition to the town, and particularly to see how many former employees came to see it.We look forward to working with the Coalville Heritage Society in the future to celebrate this important part of Coalville’s history.”

Coalville Heritage Society and NWLDC are now working together on a funding bid to bring a celebration of Palitoy to the town in 2019 - what would have been the company’s 100th birthday.

Shop Local In Free Car Parks This Christmas Festive shoppers in Coalville and Ashby de la Zouch are being encouraged to support local businesses and our high streets this Christmas by taking advantage of free Saturday parking.

North West Leicestershire District Council will once again make its car parks free of charge on every Saturday in December.

Charges usually apply in Coalville and Ashby de la Zouch, but will be free every Saturday till 27th December including all of the following car parks: Coalville Market Hall Margaret Street James Street Council offices and London Road Needhams Walk Ashby de la Zouch Hood Park Leisure Centre North Street South Street Brook Street The council car parks in Coalville will also be free on Saturday 24th November for the annual Christmas in Coalville celebration.

Council car parks throughout the district’s villages are always free to use. All council car parks are listed online at www.nwleics.gov.uk/parking Any maximum stay time restrictions in car parks or in street parking bays will still apply.

Councillor Alison Smith MBE, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Community Services at North West Leicestershire District Council, said: “Christmas is a really important time for the businesses in our towns and we can all support them by shopping locally.We want to make it convenient and easy to do this, so our council car parks will be free every Saturday in December Please take advantage of this and help give our high streets a real boost this festive season.”

4

Boxing Day Guided Walks Bosworth Battlefield Wednesday 26th December, 2018 Guided Walks: 11.30 am to 1.00 pm & 2.00 pm to 3.30 pm

Protecting Your Family’s Inheritance

Join one of our experienced Guides for an informative 2 km guided walk exploring the Battle of Bosworth, the death of King Richard III and the unlikely victory of Henry Tudor.

Most people hope that their estate

Cost: Adult £4.50, Concession £4, Child £3.

not happen for many, unless careful

Tickets can be booked in advance by calling The Ticket Office on 01455 290429 (open 7 days a week from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm up to 31/10/18 and then 10.00 am to 4.00 pm from 1/11/18). Tickets on the day will be CASH ONLY.

will pass on to their children and grandchildren eventually. But this will arrangements have been made to protect their assets from being taken towards the end of their life to pay for care home fees. The solution to help protect your estate is a Will incorporating a Property Protection Trust (PPT).

Whitwick & District U3A

A testamentary PPT can only be

In a year that has seen so many significant anniversaries, Whitwick and District U3A proudly celebrated its 10th Birthday. In 2008, just over thirty members attended the December General Meeting; membership now stands at over 320 retired people drawn from the local area.

their share of the property is placed

During 2018, members of Whitwick and District U3A have listened to guest speakers with topics including historical themes and characters; music; a charity and advice. They have read novels; been to the theatre; listened to music; danced and watched films together. They have walked miles on local footpaths and further afield. Delightful gardens and fascinating places have been visited. Artistic talents have been developed and shared. Modern foreign languages have been studied and aspects of technology practised.

Together, members have dined out, sung in the choir and played games and sports. It has been a busy year.

The U3A provides a wonderful opportunity for retired people to enrich their lives through self-help.

To learn, laugh and live is the U3A motto and the Whitwick group adds to that the vital ingredient of friendliness. Following your interests or learning new skills is so much more enjoyable in a convivial atmosphere. The movement is non-political and non-religious: everyone is welcome.

For up-to-date and comprehensive details about Whitwick and District U3A, just search online for www. whitwicku3a.org.uk

executed whilst both partners remain alive. Upon death of the first partner, their Will specifies that into trust and names the ultimate beneficiary of this share, normally the children and grandchildren of the deceased. The surviving partner, under the terms of the Trust, has the unequivocal right to remain living in the property for the rest of their life.

Peace Garden Plaque A Permanent Mark Of Remembrance

On the death of the second partner

A peace garden in Coalville that offers a place for reflection and remembrance all year round has received recognition through the Centenary Fields programme. A new commemorative plaque, accompanied by the shadowed figure of a World War One soldier, now stands proudly in the peace garden in Coalville Park.

not own the deceased's share of

The Centenary Fields programme was launched in 2014 by Fields in Trust President HRH Prince William Duke of Cambridge. Working in partnership with The Royal British Legion, the programme aims to protect parks, playing fields and other recreational spaces as a means of honouring the memory of the millions who lost their lives in World War I.

children's inheritance is protected.

North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) first created the peace garden in 2014 - the 100th anniversary of the start of World War One. It has proved to be a very popular spot with enclosed garden space, mosaic panels that commemorate World War One and Two, commemorative seating, ornamental planting and decorative steelwork.

Now in 2018, NWLDC has successfully applied for the Centenary Field commemorative plaque which marks the entirety of Coalville Park as a protected space for reflection and remembrance.

Councillor Alison Smith MBE, Deputy Leader and Armed Forces Champion at NWLDC, said: “The peace garden has become a wonderful space to relax and reflect and I know lots of people in Coalville enjoy it on a daily basis. Our new commemorative plaque is a perfect addition to this permanent garden of Remembrance and we’re proud to be able to display it as a show of support for the Armed Forces.”

Councillor John Legrys, Councillor for Coalville West, said: “I am delighted that we have achieved Fields in Trust recognition for Coalville Park. I want to thank staff that have put in the work to bring in the park up to the required standard.

There is still a lot more work to do, but with help from the newly formed Friends of Coalville Park I’m confident we will gain the much coveted Green Flag.”

For further information on Fields in Trust and Centenary Fields programme visit www.fieldsintrust.org/centenary-fields

the Trust comes to an end and the property passes to the beneficiaries.

As the surviving partner does the property it is fully protected for the beneficiaries, so if the surviving partner requires care, or even remarries, this share of the This last point can be of particular interest to couples who have come together and have children from different partners.

A PPT can help each person in a relationship ensure that their children inherit their share of the property, while giving their surviving partner the ability to live in the property for the rest of their life. If the surviving partner wants to move to another property they can still sell the property and the proceeds be used to purchase a new property; the terms of the Trust remain over the new property.

Kornerstone Legal services will assess your current circumstances and arrange the trust that will provide the best protection for you, your family and your assets.

5

The true way in providing an affordable professional service

Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning If you are over 60 it will only cost you £75* to make or update your Will.

We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - only £85* each LPA if instructed during the Will appointment.

Our prices include home visits and Inheritance Tax advice.

Freedom | Focus | Foundation

We provide a solid Foundation of estate planning expertise in the Midlands and surrounding areas. We purposely Focus on delivering effective personal solutions and counsel to your needs within the comfort of your own home. We passionately strive in exceeding your expectations for your complete Freedom and peace of mind.

Call us now for a friendly chat on: 01530 587199

www.kornerstonelegal.co.uk info@kornerstonelegal.co.uk Kornerstone Legal Services Ltd | 19 Kirkhill | Shepshed | LE12 9PA | Freephone: 0800 193 7377 Company Reg No: 11635657. * Our prices include VAT. These very special rates are only available if you are over 60 years old. Normal price for standard will £125, £195 for two. We also provide Guaranteed Funeral Plans.

Puppy and Dog training classes in IbStock and across Leicestershire for puppies, adolescents, adult and rescue dogs

Leicestershire @dogschool_leicestershire

BOOK NOW!

www.dogstrustdogschool.org.uk leicsdogschool@dogstrust.org.uk 01162 836458 fb.com/dogstrustdogschool

dogstrustdogschool

6

Susan Allen In February 1895, the north-west Leicestershire village of Hugglescote was the scene of an alleged case of witchcraft, which was heard at Coalville Petty Sessions in March 1895. George Allen’s wife Kate was so badly ‘bewitched’ by the “spiritualistic powers” of Susan Allen that she became confined to bed as a result.

However, the defendant at this trial was not the alleged witch, but the woman who claimed to be the ‘cursed’ victim. Kate Allen was accused of subjecting Susan Allen to verbal abuse, including making claims that Susan was a witch who was spiritually attacking her. Kate was also accused of physically attacking her alleged tormentor, which she insistently denied. Unfortunately for her, there were two witnesses to the assault, Maud Allen and Arthur Ewins, and P.C. Wood testified that “the complainant’s face was inflamed as from a blow.” The defendant had also threatened Susan, saying that she (Kate) would “put a knife through her” (Susan), in addition to subjecting her to a torrent of “foul-mouthed language, not fit to utter.”

In court, Kate Allen continued to claim that Susan Allen was a witch, and continually referred to her as such. Mr Sharpe, who was defending Kate, asked Susan Allen about her alleged witchcraft in a very direct manner. Susan’s testimony was that she did not even believe in witchcraft, let alone practise it, though she detailed Kate Allen’s allegations against her, and the fact that Kate had “asked her why she had ‘witched’ her.”

The Leicester Chronicle for 16th March 1895 does not suggest that Susan Allen was genuinely practising witchcraft, at least not outside of Kate Allen’s imagination. There is no mention of whether her spiritual beliefs or practices had actually been investigated, no doubt because the legal position by this time was that witchcraft had never actually existed.

To claim to possess supernatural powers could attract legal censure for fraud, amongst other offences, but it appears that Susan was not investigated for “pretending” to possess psychic or mediumistic prowess. There is no mention of any witnesses, other than the defendant herself, claiming that Susan Allen either practised, or claimed to practise, any form of divination, spell-casting, or any other activity that may historically have been interpreted as witchcraft.

Kate Allen was found guilty, and sentenced to a fine of 5s. 6d., plus costs, which amounted to £1 8s., or a seven-day jail sentence. Her personal financial circumstances are not stated, but Kate Allen “went to the cells.” Although the trial itself was not for the charge of witchcraft, I have included it in this book because the defendant completely believes that she has been “witched,” and because the same set of circumstances would, in earlier times, have culminated in a witchcraft trial. That there was no evidence to suggest that Susan Allen actually was a witch would not have saved her life if exactly the same thing had happened two centuries earlier.

By Radcliff Alistair Gregory, author of Bygone Magic and Witchcraft of Leicestershire and Rutland, £10 including p&p, from https:// www.reprintuk.com/books/ magicwitchcraftc or telephone 01509 267450; email enquiries@ reprintuk.com

PHOTO: The original bell hammer from inside Coalville Memorial Clock Tower

Road Safety Experts Go Back To School To Deliver ‘Bike Smart’ Message

Whitwick Historical Group Becomes Custodian Of Unusual Object In October, Whitwick Historical Group became the custodian of a unique artefact: the original bell

Road Safety Week at Coalville School Sees Transport Engineers Help Children Make Safer Journeys. Children at a Coalville school benefitted from the wisdom of two of the UK’s leading road safety experts this week as part of the annual Road Safety Week.

hammer from inside Coalville’s

Usually found working with leading housebuilders and advising on civil engineering projects, Chris Berry and Simon Prescott, road safety auditors and experienced transport engineers with M-EC, visited Hugglescote Community Primary School on Wednesday 21st November 2018, to raise road safety awareness.

hammer and was removed during

The assembly, attended by 421, 5-11-year-old children, focused on delivering important messages about how to stay safe when travelling, crossing the road and when out and about on bikes and scooters.

and weighs 13kg. From 1925, the

With the onset of winter and the darker evenings, the M-EC engineers also gave out free school bag reflectors to the children to raise their visibility when they are walking, cycling and scooting to and from school.

of fallen soldiers.

Road Safety Week, organised each year by Brake, the road safety charity, is the UK’s biggest national event. The focus this year is ‘Bike Smart’ and the week of activity aims to raise awareness of the fact that more than a third of people killed or seriously injured on UK roads are those travelling by bike and motorcycle.

According to the latest statistics from the Department for Transport, more than 100 cyclists and motorcyclists are injured every day in needless, preventable crashes. Brake campaigns to promote the steps all road users can take to reduce the number of incidents.

Taking the ‘Bike Smart’ theme, the focus of the assembly was to advise the children on safe cycling, scooting and walking to and from school, including planning safer journeys and understanding road crossings.

Memorial Clock Tower. It had been redundant since the 1990s when it was replaced by an electric the recent restoration work. The photograph shows this unusual object which is made of cast iron hammer had struck the bell in the Clock Tower many times in honour

Bells and memorials were very much in everyone’s minds last month. To mark 100 years since the Armistice, bells rang out from churches and cathedrals in villages, towns and cities across the country. During both World Wars, the ringing of bells had been restricted. In WW2, church bells were only to ring to inform of an invasion by enemy troops.

Chris Berry, Associate Transport Engineer at M-EC said: “The morning was a far cry from our day job, and it was great to get out into the local community and work with the school to encourage the children to think about effective ways to stay safe when out and about. As consulting development engineers, M-EC is used to working with the construction industry to ensure projects adhere to the national safety standards for all road users. However, safety also relies on the individual taking responsibility.We hope that by speaking to the children when they are at a young age, we may help them to develop positive habits and behaviours around road safety which will keep them safe.”

We cannot promise bells at

Paul Driver, Headteacher at Hugglescote Community Primary School said: “So many children love riding their bikes and it is an activity which is promoted for its health and environmental advantages but it’s vital to teach them strategies which minimize their risk when they are out and about.We want our children to enjoy the benefits of cycling and be able to make their journeys safely. Helping them to develop the necessary skills and to raise their awareness of road risks is crucial. It is always beneficial for the children when local businesses share their expertise and support the delivery of these important messages. Having M-EC’s top engineers, Chris and Simon, deliver this assembly really engaged the children and they were able to learn from their expert advice. Hopefully, this will help them to stay safe over the winter and beyond.”

from noon until 4pm. Readers are

Whitwick’s Old Station during our Christmas Open Afternoon but it will be an opportunity to see the bell hammer for yourself. On 13th December, Whitwick Historical Group will be welcoming visitors welcome to come along to see items from our archive, including thousands of photographs, and publications, whilst enjoying light refreshments. The committee and volunteers send the season’s greetings to all readers.

7 T: 0116 3667766 E: info@allaboutliving.co.uk W: www.allaboutliving.co.uk

GAS FIRE AND MARBLE FIREPLACE PACKAGES FROM £699.99

• Price includes a marble 48” fireplace in Pure white with an inset coal effect gas fire and contemporary chrome trim.

• 5 year manufacturers guarantee included.

The Midlands largest display of gas and electric fires on live display now!

GAZCO SKOPE

• 2 kw Output • 100% Efficient • Led Low energy lighting • Three impressive flame options to select from including Amber, Blue and Amber with Blue Accent, this electric fire provides a deep, threedimensional display for a striking realism.

• This electric fire comes with an elegant thermostatic handset that gives full control over the fire’s host of features and allows the flames to be enjoyed with or without any heat.

AVELLI ILLUMIA FIREPLACE The Avelli Illumia gas fire suite is one of our more petite fireplaces so is perfect for bringing a touch of elegance and warmth to smaller rooms. This classically styled fireplace comes in a choice of limestone or travertine surround and features dimmable halogen lights which enhance a large, stunning log effect gas fire.

Guaranteed Lowest UK Prices!

Call now on 0116 3667766

All About Living Ltd, 68 - 72 Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 0RD

KATS ANTIQUE VINTAGE & COLLECTABLES CENTRE

s e ar er Ye H 3 ing ad Tr

A s O Se n en TV

Leicester’s Largest display of wood burning stoves on show now, plus we supply custom sizes of marble and granite for your own projects.

1500 sq ft over 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.

Come and see us for that unusual Christmas gift and also our beautiful range of gold and silver jewellery

ALSO WANTED

• All Gold & Silver Jewellery Including 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 everyday - 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 from 3pm everyday and all day Sunday

Variable opening hours please call to enquire

www.clockrepairsleicestershire.co.uk

8

County Cllr Michael Wyatt M: 07773 341531 E: mikewyatt1@hotmail.co.uk

Christmas Switch On In Coalville Another Miss Opportunity And The Worst Ever Cllr Michael Wyatt has attacked the Coalville Special Committee members who are responsible for the Christmas celebrations in Coalville for putting on another extremely poor show.

Cllr Michael Wyatt said, “Yet again the Councillors on the committee have failed to make sure all areas of Coalville are included in the festivities.The Council really don’t understand or care about the independent small traders in the town. Many shops have reported the so called Christmas celebration event was a complete wash out, and one of the worse days of the year.What we need is a dedicated team who want to see our traders and town thrive instead of the current lot who clearly have not got a clue about bringing more people into the town. Hopefully after May 2019 local elections we will finally have Councillors who actually care about our Town instead of the current doom and gloomers who are currently preventing us from moving forward.”

Thringstone Primary School Celebrates More Sporting Achievements On 15th November 2018, representatives from Thringstone Primary School attended the NWL Sports Awards, which celebrated achievements in sport and volunteering for the district.

Following on from the fantastic achievement of Spirit of the Games Award earlier in the year, Thringstone Primary School was delighted to receive a Gold Award for the School Games Mark and runners up in the Primary School of the Year category.

The School Games Mark is a government led awards scheme, which rewards schools for their commitment to the development of competition across their school and into the community. Thringstone were delighted to receive the Gold Award for the second year running, as it shows the school’s dedication to making sport accessible and fun for all, and to encourage pupils to enter competitions and do their best.

Wyatt Calls For Freeze On House Building In Coalville Cllr Michael Wyatt has called on the Tory bosses to put a freeze on giving permission for additional housing until proper highway infrastructure and additional services are put into place.

The Council have also been informed that they need to increase their allocation of housing to over 11,000 which will see even more open space and our open countryside destroyed.

Cllr Wyatt said, “It’s absolutely crazy that the council are passing so many applications without the proper highway infrastructure, and additional services which are currently overstretched.We need the council to freeze anymore house building so they can tackle the growing issue of congestion and the destruction of our open countryside.We desperately need a relief road in Bardon and additional schools, doctors and other frontline services which are currently under growing pressure before the Council pass anymore large housing developments.This councils obsession with building needs to stop before it’s to late.”

Being runners-up in the Primary School of the Year category was also a huge boost to the school. Having not won any sporting competitions during the school year, but having won the Spirit of the Games, the school’s entry focused on the point that sporting achievements can be judged not only from the perspective of winning, but also from the values of determination, passion, respect, honesty, self-belief and teamwork.

Thringstone Primary School’s motto is ‘enjoying achievement together’ and this refers to both classroom education and sporting achievements. An emphasis is placed on the character attributes that children can develop whilst engaging in sporting activity.

Alongside their membership of the Sports Partnership, which sees the school compete against other schools in different sports and activities, the school runs extra-curricular activities daily. Initiatives such as the Daily Mile and lunchtime and after school clubs enable as many children as possible to take part in various sports and activities. This is made possible by the dedication of staff who give up their time for the children to be able to take part. The school enters local cross country events and an inter-house cross country league was introduced last year for all children from Foundation stage to year 6. The school has noticed positive changes in pupil’s attitudes, not only towards sporting activity, but also in the classroom.

No Tolerance Message To Festive Drink Drivers “Drink driving will not be tolerated” – that’s the message from the Safer North West Leicestershire Partnership this Christmas. The partnership, which includes North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) and Leicestershire Police is highlighting its commitment to reducing rural crime by encouraging people to ‘Celebrate Safely’.

Police in North West Leicestershire will be running a number of operations targeting drink drivers throughout December. The aim is to discourage people from even considering getting behind the wheel of their car after drinking. NWLDC’s licensing team will also be raising awareness among pub landlords and reiterating their role in keeping our roads safe. They will be encouraged to be on the lookout for drink drivers and to flag them up to the police.

The rural drink-driving message forms part of the partnership’s wider annual Celebrate Safely campaign that includes a variety of initiatives to encourage people to stay safe while enjoying the festivities. The Celebrate Safely campaign this Christmas will also include: • Funding for a private ambulance to be in Ashby during the busiest party season nights • Inspections of bars, pubs and clubs across the district • Taxi inspection initiatives

9

CALL 07903 128614

WWW.ROSENTHALARCHITECTURAL-COALVILLE.CO.UK

FREE

Consultation Site Visit No Obligation Quotation for our services Electronic Survey of your property Detailed Plans & Drawing

Based in Coalville, Rosenthal Architectural Services offer a professional and reliable design and planning services for Extensions, Loft Conversions and New Builds.

Scan me with your camera for more details

We submit your Planning Application Act as your Agents during your application Supply your Structural Calculations Supply your Building Regulations

** UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT **

COALVILLE AQUATICS SUPPLIES

For All Your Aquatic Needs

10% OFF WITH THIS ADVERT T&C’s Apply - (One per customer)

• • • • •

Tropical,Cold Water Fish, Shrimps & Live plants Decorative Woods,Rocks, Plants & Ornaments Treatments, Food & Frozen Food Filters, Pumps & Heaters RO & Salted Water

Tel: 01530 814449

2A North Avenue, Coalville, LE67 3QX Open 10.00am - 5.00pm (Closed Tue & Wed) Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm CoalvilleAquaticsSupplies

STRUGGLING FOR STORAGE SPACE IN YOUR HOME? Install a loft ladder and start utilising what could potentially be the largest room in the your home...

01530 261387 - 07515526959 - 07961576020 STARTER PACKAGE DEAL

LOFT STORAGE SOLUTIONS

• 2 Section Aluminium Loft Ladder

At Loft Storage Solutions we respect our customers, that’s why our friendly, local,family run business listens to our clients needs without pushy sales techniques and gimmicks.

We cut the jargon and explain clearly and precisely what can be achieved and always work with customers in a professional & respectful manner.

• Pendant Light & Switch • 50sqft Moisture Resistant Flooring

FROM ONLY

£280 all in which includes FREE fitting in less than a day!

From ladder installations to a complete loft transformation including...

Stairs, Flooring, Electrics, Windows, Insulation & Plaster Finish.

• Loft Ladders • Loft Staircases • Loft Hatches • Loft Boarding • Roof Windows • Top-Up Insulation • Rafter Insulation • Lighting & Sockets • Complete Storage Rooms For information on our latest package deals visit us at...

www.LeicesterLoftStorage.com Alternatively contact us to discuss your requirements and let us tailor make a package to suit your needs & budget.

10

Coalville & Hugglescote Community Clubs & Groups 1188 (Coalville) Squadron http://1188sqnatc.co.uk Forest Road, Coalville

Coalville Gymnastics Club 01530 811001 coalville.gymnastics@talktalkbusiness.net

4th Coalville Scout Group Steve Farmer 07887808800 4thcoalville@gmail.com

Coalville Heritage Society 01530 833521 coalville.heritage@gmail.com www.coalville-heritage.info

Alternative Book Club Coalville Helena Lomax helenalomax@btconnect.com Ashby & Coalville Lions Club Lynda 07735407637 Bardon Hill Juniors Football Club 07983134033 www.facebook.com/Bardon-Hill-JuniorsFC-301998146531045 Bardon Hill Sports Club Answer Service 01530 815569 Broom Leys Chinese Wand & Tai Chi Club Les & Sue 01530 836941

Coalville Male Voice Choir www.coalvillemvc.co.uk Coalville OAP & Friends Fishing Club Phil Bancroft 07505462898 Coalville Ramblers Robert 07510512446 publicity@coalvilleramblers.org.uk www.ramblers.org.uk/coalville Coalville Rugby Club 01530 812090 Coalville Swimming Club www.coalvillesc.gov.uk

Broom Leys Choral Society Whitwick Methodist Church, Hall Lane

Coalville Town Football Club www.coalvilletownfc.co.uk

Christ Church London Road, Coalville

Coalville Town Hockey Club Matt Howells 07980449524

Coalville & District Photographic Society www.sites.google.com/site/ coalvilleanddistrictcameraclub

Coleorton & New Lount Volunteer Group John Macdonald 01530 223456 077670294818

Coalville Army Cadets ACF Hut, Waterworks Road, Coalville

http://cnlvg.weebly.com Hermitage Harriers RC 01530 811215

SAFE • EFFICIENT • PROFESSIONAL

Hugglescote & Donington-leHeath Heritage Society hugglescotedoningtonheritage@gmail.com www.facebook.com/HADLHHS Marlborough Square Methodist Church Elspeth Myles 07788235573 elspethmyles@aol.com Musical Theatre School (MTS) Steph 07969688215 musicaltheatreschl@gmail.com www.musicaltheatreschl.co.uk North West Leicestershire Model Engineers 07922692076 Oddfellows Friendly Society Group David 01530 224492 davgill097@gmail.com Old 'N' Bold Club 01530 814718 Riglers & Gigglers Toddlers Group Claire 01530 413963 07535890801 Scotlands Bowling Club Sue 01530 810026 Steve 01530 224128

The Ex-military Girls Group Lou Miller 01530 811041 exmilitarygirls@gmail.com The Inner Wheel Club Of Coalville Janice jpq26@hotmail.com The Rotary Club Of Coalville David Beaumont davidbeaumont57@hotmail.com Whitwick Branch Of The Royal British Legion Lou Miller 01530 811041 louiseamiller62@gmail.com Whitwick & District U3A Richard Collier 01530 249377 mem_sec@whitwicku3a.org.uk Whitwick Methodist Church Drop In Cafe Deacon Barbara Crockett 07881408488 Whitwick Netball Club Contact Abby Chambers via Facebook Page Whitwick Retired People Fellowship Mrs B King 01530 835981

Table Tennis Sue 01530 587919 The Coalville Adult School Drama Group 07772224552 casdg.info@gmail.com

St. Clare’s Primary School A Catholic Voluntary Academy Convent Drive, Coalville Tel: 01530 837747 Email: office@st-clares.leics.sch.uk www.st-clares.leics.sch.uk

• RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CLEANING • FULLY INSURED • FRIENDLY LOCAL COMPANY Using Pure Water, We Clean: Gutters and Fascias, Barge Boards, Windows & Conservatories, Garage Doors Our Chimney Sweeping Services: Power & Traditional Brush Sweeping, Stove Cleaning & Servicing, Door Seal & Rope Replacement, Smoke Testing, Cowl Fitment To make your booking or for more information, please call:

T: 01530 510833 - M: 07572122236 www.5starguttercleaning.co.uk 5 Star Gutter Cleaning Services Ltd

The outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection is excellent and a testament to the commitment, skills and hard work of our exceptional staff and the support of our governors, Trust and families.

Our pupils are outstanding and deserve the praise that has been heaped on them. We are determined to build on the successes achieved to date and to continue to deliver the quality of learning experience that will ensure our pupils are fully prepared for life in the 21st century.

Louise Freeman Head Teacher

11

Thringstone WI Naturally Beautiful Will you be feeling a bit flat after the Christmas holidays? Or will your New year resolutions fall by the wayside? Thringstone WI has the perfect remedy to make you feel like a new woman - and help animals and the environment at the same time!

YOUR LOCAL LAW FIRM, WORKING SUCCESSFULLY ON YOUR BEHALF FOR OVER 90 YEARS. PERSONAL INJURY & CLINICAL NEGLIGENCE SPECIALISTS

Come and meet Michelle Leeson from Tropic - a UK based beauty brand totally committed to creating a range of skincare products which are 100% naturally derived and free from animal testing. Michelle will be bringing products for us to try - and one lucky lady will receive a free facial.

Vistors are most welcome to join us for this evening at the Thringstone Methodist Church Hall at 7.30pm on Tuesday, 15th January.

Entry for non-members is £5.00 which includes a raffle ticket for our monthly draw, and refreshments at the close of the meeting.

For more information about the Thringstone WI and our activities planned for 2019, please visit our website at thringstonewi@gmail.com

GOT AN ARTICLE TO SEND US? We are always on the lookout for local news.

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

Vickki Ridgway I am here to listen, support and advise you through the process of making a claim. With more than 20 years’ experience in winning cases and recovering maximum compensation, your claim is safe in my hands.

CALL ME NOW ON

0116 255 1811 email: vridgway@josiahhincks.co.uk

www.josiahhincks.co.uk AERIAL, SATELLITE OR PHONE PROBLEMS SOLVED By a local family business

ROOFING & GUTTERING REPAIRS • New Guttering • Wood Staining • Repointing • Ridge Tiles • Chimney Stacks • Roof Valley • Dry Verge • Flat Roofing • Dry Ridge • Lead Flashing • Moss Removal • Slate/Tile Roofing • Removal Of Old Aerials

FREE QUOTATION AND FREE EMERGENCY CALL OUT Proprietor: Elias Bell

Repairs could cost as little as £20 SKY, VIRGIN, BT VISION MAGIC EYES from £90 (watch them in another room and control from there) EXTRA DIGITAL AERIAL OR SATELLITE POINTS from £50 PLASMA & LCD INSTALLS (cable hiding our speciality) from £90 DIGITAL AERIALS from £70 | Sky Installs & Upgrades | EXTRA PHONE SOCKETS from £70 OAP DISCOUNTS | We now supply & fix SECURITY CAMERAS from £150

10 Barlestone Road, Bagworth, Coalville, LE67 1DG

Telephone: 01827 830391 or 07973 364478 (Ask Deb or Pete for a FREE quote including Sundays) www.stocktonsdigital.co.uk

Email: eandlmaintenanceltd@outlook.com

Stockton Satellite & Aerials

Freephone: 0800 292 7391 Mobile: 07494820600

12

County Cllr Dr Terri Enynon T: 01530 832622 E: terri.eynon@leics.gov.uk

Where were you on May 7th in 2015? Busy at work? Looking after the kids?

Shopping for your mum? Despite all this, thousands of you managed to vote in the District Council elections, dashing into the polling stations before work or on the way back from picking the kids up from school. But did you remember to take your polling card?

Remember your Poll Card For years we’ve been telling people it doesn’t matter.You can still vote, even if you’ve left your poll card at home on the mantlepiece. But next May, in North West Leicestershire, things are going to be different.

A study in 2008 by Dr Stuart Wilks-Heeg at Liverpool University raised concerns about the safety of our voting system. A tiny number of people are prosecuted every year by the Electoral Commission for identity fraud. How can we be sure that our voting system is free from corruption? The biggest risk to the voting system, according to Dr Wilks-Heeg, is the way, in some households, people are bullied into handing over their postal votes. His work was taken up by campaigners under the tag-line ‘Stamp Out Voting Fraud’.

Should we ‘Stamp Out Voting Fraud’……?

North West Leicestershire is one of the eleven local authorities across England taking part in Voter ID pilots for the 2019 local elections. The pilots are intended to find out how best to reduce the risk of voter identity fraud.

The pilots will test four models of voter ID checks. One model expects you to take some photo ID such as a passport or driving licence. Another model allows you to take two kinds of non-photo ID such as a household bill or bank statement. One will use a poll card with a scannable barcode. Here in North West Leicestershire, next May, you will need to remember your poll card if you want to vote. …… or just ‘Stamp Out Voting?’

Not only does this pilot fail to address the problem of postal-vote manipulation, it avoids a much bigger problem with our democracy. In 2010 Dr Wilks-Heeg went on to raise concerns about the accuracy of our electoral registers. Recent changes have, if anything, made it even harder for people to get on the electoral register. Many young people aren’t registered to vote at all.

If you are registered to vote and, come next May, you dash into the polling station before work or on the way back from the shops, without your polling card, you could be turned away. Will you bother to go back? The biggest voting fraudsters are those who say ‘It doesn’t matter. They’re all the same. My vote won’t change anything’.

Just a hundred years ago only landowners and businessmen (yes, only men) could vote or stand for election. They were able to make political decisions that kept them rich and left other people poor. If you need a reminder of what happens when ordinary people don’t vote go and see ‘Peterloo’ at the Century Theatre on the 18th January.

Avoid the rush, get a postal vote.

Despite Dr Wilks-Heeg’s concerns about the real risk of postal voting fraud, there are no changes planned to the postal-vote system. If you are concerned about missing your chance to vote next May, apply for a postal vote today www.nwleics.gov.uk

Buckingham Decorators • Buckingham Decorators family run business with over 30 years.

• Experience in all aspects of the trade.

• City and Guilds advance trained.

0116 403 0072

www.buckingham-decorators.com

Coalville Teenager Thomas Giles Gets Selected As A FedEx Ball Kid At Nitto ATP World Tour Finals Coalville teenager Thomas Giles has fought off fierce competition, to be selected as a FedEx ball Kid for this years prestigious Nitto ATP World Tour finals. The event was staged over 8 days, 11-18th November and in front of audiences of 20 000 people at a time at the O2 Arena in London. This is where the top 8 mens singles players and top 8 mens doubles partnerships battle it out for a week in a round robin of tennis with semi finals and an amazing final at the end of the week.

Hundreds of children from across the country and overseas filled in an online application form first. These then whittled down to 300 kids who were invited to take part in the trials which took place at the Lee Valley Tennis Centre at the Olympic Park in September. Each of them hoping they would be chosen to help out at what’s seen to be one of the biggest end of season events in the tennis calendar.

The youngster is one of an elite group of just twenty six kids who were picked from the trials day. They have been chosen based on outstanding ability and strong dedication, demonstrated during the trial. All 26 have attended an intensive 5 day training camp in Southampton in October to further improve their skills and bond as a team. Thomas was interviewed at Southampton and can be seen on this You Tube link Youtube.com/watch?v=n7kN5cuDr7M Thomas is truly passionate about his own tennis journey and currently is working his way up the national rankings for his age group. He has been fully encouraged and supported in his achievements by his teachers at South Charnwood High School in Markfield where he is currently in year nine. He trains 5 times a week as a performance player at the My Tennis Academy in Nottingham. He also trains with the Leicestershire U14 County team and represents his County at team events where possible. He plays for the U14 Premier Team at Carrisbrooke Tennis club and mens doubles teams at Ashby Castle and Loughborough Lawn when he can fit it into his busy schedule.

Thomas ball kid experiences started in 2015 when he was just 10 years old at the WTA and ATP event at the Nottingham Open. He has developed his skills over the last 3 years where he has helped at The International Visually Impaired event in Loughborough, also the deaf and wheelchair tennis events and recently the new Challenger Event at Loughborough Dan Maskell Tennis Centre.

Thomas says it is an absolute honour to be selected for the World Tour Finals, It gave him the chance to be on court with his idols and some of the best tennis players in the world! This year, the group of kids also were joined by four talented ball kids who have been selected from two other Fed Ex sponsored ATP World tour events from abroad. This makes it a truly global event.

Last week saw the Nitto ATP finals come to an end with an amazing win from Sacha Zverev who beat Novak Djokovic in a hard fought final in front of a crowd of 20 000. Thomas was out on court in that singles final for about an hour and absolutely loved the experience of helping the best in the world.

Mark McGrath is the Ball Crew Programme manager and says the hunt is now on for the 2019 Fed Ex Ball Kids for the Nitto ATP Finals.You do not have to be a tennis play but a kid with drive and passion to achieve all helps, applications are at www.nittoatpfinals.com/en/fedex-ball-kids-program

13

6 Local Magazines Total Circulation 39,050 Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston, Swithland, Newtown Linford, Woodhouse & Woodhouse Eaves 5800 Shepshed & Hathern 7000

Yale

®

Ratby, Kirby Muxloe & Leicester Forest East 6900 Coalville & Hugglescote 8000 Birstall & Wanlip 5600 Rothley & Mountsorrel 5750

3 Easy Ways To Book Your Advertising Plan Call

0800 6446 150

Email

Home break-ins increase by 20% in the winter due to the darker evenings.

Photographs, children’s drawings, family heirlooms…these things may not cost the earth, but we know that they often mean the most. That’s why here at Progress we fit all our uPVC doors with Yale multipoint locks as standard

10 year mechanical guarantee

Call us now for your FREE no obligation quote on how we can make your home more secure this winter

01530 812299

dawn@openboxpromotions.co.uk

Online

www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

Progress - Security Leaflet v03.indd 1

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

26/11/2018 16:20

14

MP Andrew Bridgen

M: 01530 417736 E: andrew.bridgen.mp@parliament.uk The Prime Minister has now announced her Withdrawal deal with the European Union and is touring the Country looking for support. As I feared when she pulled the rug from under David Davis ahead of announcing her Chequers proposals in the summer, I believe with the “Withdrawal Agreement” and Political Declaration, never in the history of our great nation have so many been betrayed for so little.

Coalville Turns Red For 100th Anniversary Of The Armistice These photo's below show North West Leicestershire District Council Offices and the Memorial Square Clock Tower lit up in red for the 100th anniversary of the Armistice. Photo's taken by Glenn Wright, Copyright.

This is not the Brexit that 17.4 million people voted, in fact this is worse than being in the European Union because at least then you can actually leave. What this does is sees the UK hand over the bulk of the divorce payment to the EU during the transition period, whilst we negotiate a future relationship based on the vague Political Declaration which is in no way legally binding.

It then gets worse than that though. If we cannot reach agreement by December 2020, the options are to extend the transition period for an unspecified period or use the ‘backstop’ which would effectively keep the whole of the UK in a single customs territory to prevent a ‘hard border’ between Ireland and Northern Ireland, a border which both sides have openly said they would never enforce. This would oblige us to apply all EU regulations, including those we have had no say in drafting.

We would have no right to unilaterally withdraw from the backstop arrangement and would have to seek permission from an independent arbitration panel. I campaigned for the Leave campaign on the basis of regaining sovereignty, this agreement would see the UK becoming less sovereign.

If we were to get out of the backstop and enter into a trade agreement with the EU, every one of the 27 remaining EU nations would have the right to veto it.

France are already laying down conditions about access for their fishermen to our waters, Spain want joint sovereignty of Gibraltar and I can guarantee every nation will be looking for its own angle to gain advantage during the negotiation.

All the deal does is guarantee a bad deal with the EU and no deal with anybody else. It is ridiculous that we as the 5th largest economy in the world are signing up to such a damaging agreement. All on the basis of the false argument which is the Irish border issue.

As you may have gathered, I will not be voting in favour of the withdrawal agreement when it comes before the House of Commons in mid-December.

I believe those who are supporting it are kicking the can down the road and hoping for the best when it comes to trade negotiations. I hold the Prime Minister culpable for a failure of statecraft in these negotiations, and for undermining successive Brexit Secretaries who were looking to implement the Brexit vision that the public voted for.

If the agreement is not approved as I do not expect it will be, the Government has 21 days to come up with an alternative or as things stand, we will leave on ‘no deal’ terms on the 29th March.

In that event, I understand there are agreements in place regarding citizens’ rights, aviation and data sharing. Much more should have been done to prepare for ‘no deal’ and these preparations would have to be stepped up considerably.

Whilst there would be short term disruption, it would be nothing compared to the long term consequences of this dreadful deal. It took EU member states just 38 minutes to agree the deal. They see this as a massive opportunity to gain advantage over the UK. That is not something I can support, because you cannot negotiate when your head is in the lion’s mouth.

Made to measure blinds including Roman, vertical, pleated and venetians.

Rollers including Night and Day. Perfect Fit blinds in venetian, roller or pleated.

Roof light blinds including Velux and Keylite.

We offer expert advice in the comfort of your own home

Contact Caroline Thompson Telephone 01509 821016 - Mobile 0795 1619046 acacia@acacia-blinds.co.uk - www.acacia-blinds.co.uk

Arriva Bus Service Changes 11 - Coalville - Agar Nook We are making changes to the route and timetable of this service to better match the travel patterns of our customers and improve punctuality. In the mornings, service 11 will operate directly via Greenhill Road out to Agar Nook, then back into town via Cropston Drive, Woodhouse Road and Northfield Drive.

In the afternoons, buses will be numbered 11A and operate via Northfield Drive, Woodhouse Road and Cropston Drive on their way out to Agar Nook and then fast via Greenhil Road back to the town centre.

15 - Coalville - Ibstock The frequency of this service is being revised to reflect the change in customer demand. Buses will now operate every 30 minutes Monday to Friday, the same frequency as they currently run on Saturdays.

26 - Coalville - Leicester There will be some minor changes made to the times of certain journeys to help improve punctuality.

29/29A - Leicester - Coalville - Swadlincote - Burton The level of passenger demand for travel between Swadlincote and Burton no longer supports the cost of running the current frequency of service, and as a result we will be revising the timetable to more efficiently meet the needs of the community. As such, most journeys of service 29A will now terminate at Swadlincote with service 29 continuing through to Burton up to every hour through the day. Services between Swadlincote and Burton will continue to operate their current route through Stanton and Stapenhill and will not be returning to the previous route along Ashby Road. Other services are available from Beaufort Road,Vancouver Drive, Highbank Road and Stapenhill Road.

Elsewhere on the route, we will no longer be serving New Packington on the way in to Ashby due to very low levels of usage. Instead, service 29A will operate via Flagstaff Island to provide frequent and effective links to Tesco Extra and the neighbouring retail park for residents of Ravenstone and the Marlborough Way areas. To better support the needs of those travelling for work or education we will be introducing double decker vehicles on peak journeys.

To find out more and other services within Leicestershire please visit: https://bit.ly/2FQtWgb

15

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: • A FREE home visit.

• A FREE written quotation.

• Fully guaranteed.

• A large selection of ladders to choose from.

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

Fish & Chip Supper

Prizes

Bring Your Own Drinks

WHEN

WHERE

Saturday 5th Jan 2019 Doors open - 7pm

Thornton Community Centre 175 Main St Thornton LE67 1AH

Tickets - £10 per person. Maximum number per team = 6.

(Teams can be arranged on the night – pre booking essential)

Contact Gill Tapping – 07719 882144 – gilltevents@aol.com www.thorntonvillage.org