March 2016 - Loughborough Community Eye

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Charity Live Music Event On GoodFriday - Coalville For Papworth Hospital Charity Trust

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Support The Loughborough Hospital Bus Campaign A campaign group made up of local residents is calling for Loughborough hospital to be given it's own bus stop. Last year, amid claims by bus company Kinch that the stop was not being regularly used, was not profitable, and - as a result of rerouting due to the town's pedestrianisation - was causing delays to the timetable on the No. 5 route.

Concerns were raised about lack of sufficient public transport to the new hospital site through a public consultation when it was moved from Pinfold Gate back in 2009, yet these same concerns still remain. Loughborough's MP Nicky Morgan has even publicly expressed concern over the removal of the service herself.

The hospital stop was originally being subsidised for a trial period by West. Leics. Clinical Commissioning Group,but now that period is up, according to Kinch, there is 'no public demand' for it.

Emma Ward, from 38 Degrees Campaign group, said, "Many members of the public we have spoken to were unaware there was ever a service going to the

hospital, because it wasn't well publicised. The hospital has recently seen a further increase in visitors, as Mental health services has just been relocated to the hospital from the town centre.

There is only limited parking on site, and many vulnerable visitors do not drive. It is true that there are bus stops relatively nearby, but using them involves crossing Epinal Way, and it is still a fair walk if you are infirm or have reduced mobility. Health services should be made easily accessible to all, it shouldn't be a question of profitability. We are asking Leicestershire County Council and West Leicestershire Clinical Commissioning Group to intervene."

The group have set up a petition to Leicestershire County Council in order to get the stop reinstated, and have already gathered hundreds of signatures, including from local Borough and County Councillors. You can show your support for a Loughborough hospital bus stop by signing the online petition here - http:// you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/ reinstate-loughborough-hospitalbus-stop

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What We Wore Stories and pictures of children's clothes, 1900-1999. An exhibition by three local women Three local women with a collection of children's clothes from the 20th century and an interest in textiles have put together a unique exhibition for the Loughborough Museum.

The three women are Felicity Austin and Biddy Saunders from Syston and Joy Lambell from Birstall. They have been collecting stories and photos of what people remember wearing when they were children, and would like to share these memories with the public, so are mounting an exhibition in the Charnwood Gallery in Loughborough Museum from February 6th until May 16th this year. The memories and the photos cover every aspect of children's lives, from school uniform to fancy dress; from baby clothes to swimming costumes.

Clothes from their collection will also be on display, several dating back a hundred years to the Edwardian era.

You might think that this is a specialist subject that doesn't have any relevance to you, but these ladies think you'd be wrong! Why do they think that?

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It's the social history of childhood, fabrics and washing methods.

http://bit.ly/1WZSWzD 38degreeslboro@gmail.com 38 Degrees loughborough @38DegreesLBoro

It's the story of many manufacturing firms in Leicestershire and Great Britain, as well as the story of homemade clothes.

And for those of us born in the 20th century, it's the background to our lives!

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LOCAL NEWS

Fracking, Our New Neighbour?

Site Tour For Students - University Undergraduates Visit Grange Park

Talk by David Bridge Monday 25th April at 7.30pm.

Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall

Rotary Support For Local Good Causes

David Bridge qualified as a geologist in 1968 and has spent his entire life in the field.

He spent many years with the British Geological Survey, at home and abroad. He retired in 2007.

Fracking, the extraction of natural gas from deep in the ground, by various means is a highly topical subject. It is widespread in the United States and is making a major contribution to energy supplies there. The British Government is very supportive of projects here.

A licence for prospecting North of Loughborough has already been granted.

PHOTO: Soar Valley Rotary President Richard handing over cheques to Roy Bennett of the local ProstAid group and Ivan Brookes a Rainbows Ambassador.

PHOTO: Students from Loughborough University Construction Engineering Management course on site at Grange Park, Loughborough with William Davis Homes’ site manager, Simon Smith (far left).

Much of the money was the result of the Club’s Christmas Santa appeal and at the time of that collection the Club donated the first night’s donations to help the flood relief efforts by Rotary clubs in the North West & Yorkshire. In addition the Club has raised over £1,800 for LOROS and made grants to the Guides, Rotary Stars and the Air Ambulance.

The subject has provoked major controversy. Our speaker will give the facts and explain doubts by various groups.

Members are free. Guests are welcome, £3 at the door.

Refreshments included.

Further information: Peter Bertram 01162 100 572 or www.focf.org.uk Advance notice. There will be a visit to Ulverscroft Woods and Herbert’s Meadow led by Neil Pilcher of Leicester & Rutland Wildlife Trust on June 8th.

Details later.

A Grand Celebration 25 Years Of Harmony At Derby Theatre on Sunday 17th April 2016 4.30pm Grand Central Chorus – 5 times UK Barbershop Champions, are hosting a major show to celebrate their 25th Anniversary on Sunday 17th April 2016 at Derby Theatre. This spectacular event will showcase the very best of UK Barbershop and follows on from their sell-out show in Derby last April. It will also be a first opportunity to see this outstanding men’s harmony chorus perform the songs they will be singing at the 2016 UK Championships – and well as many others from their current repertoire.

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

President of the Rotary Club of the Soar Valley Richard Hilliar announced on Monday donations to local charities in excess of £4,600.

Students from Loughborough University were able to gain firsthand experience of a live building site recently when they were invited to tour the flagship Grange Park development from William Davis Homes.

25 first year Construction Engineering Management undergraduates and their senior tutor, Bruce Wright met with Grange Park’s site manager, Simon Smith to learn more about the construction process.

Commencing in the information centre with an initial safety talk and explanation of how a site is planned, the students were then guided around Grange Park to view real-life examples of road and drainage design, setting out and foundations as well as finished houses.

“The site visit was excellent and fitted in well with the modules that were taught last semester,” said Bruce Wright. “Simon had arranged the tour so the whole construction process could be viewed in the correct order, which really helped give the students some context and brought the topics we covered in the classroom into the perspective of the real world. We really appreciated the industry input.”

Situated to the south of Loughborough with easy access to the A6 and M1, Grange Park comprises a full range of property types, from two bedroom apartments to five bedroom family homes, which enabled the students to see and understand the full spectrum of design and infrastructure requirements.

William Davis Homes’ site manager, Simon Smith added: “It’s really important for the next generation of construction engineers, project managers and production professionals to see how a building site operates day-to-day. The students were very enthusiastic and asked plenty of questions throughout the tour, plus they didn’t even mind that the weather was pouring with rain, although I suppose that’s part of the training too!”

A number of three and four bedroom homes are available to purchase at Grange Park, starting from £220,000. To arrange a viewing or for more information, please contact sales consultants, Stephanie Holland or Claire Bryers on 01509 262493 or visit www.williamdavis.co.uk/homes/ our-sites/grange-park6. The showhome and information centre is open daily from 11am – 5pm.

Amongst the good causes to benefit on Monday were charities Rainbows, ProstAid, Shelterbox and “Wishes for Kids” and President Richard said “We are pleased to be making this initial tranche of grants to local charities.

My chosen charity this year is the Air Ambulance and the Rotary club is planning a special fundraising event for this excellent cause later in the year”.

Charity Whist Drives Charity Whist drives are held on the 1st Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm in the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

Admission £2.00.All players welcome. Large free car park.

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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 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople

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LOCAL NEWS

Council Welcomes Clockwise To Southfields

Urgent Appeal For Volunteer Families Friends of Chernobyl’s Children (West Leics) are urgently seeking a volunteer host family who could offer a secure, loving home for an 8yr old girl from Belarus next summer. The girl lives with her family in a remote village that remains badly contaminated with radiation and the charity desperately need to find her a suitable placement so that she can join their recuperative care programme this summer.

A credit union which offers a range of money advice and services has launched a weekly drop-in session at Charnwood Borough Council’s offices in Loughborough.

A Clockwise adviser will be on hand to help customers every Monday, between 10am and 1pm, at the offices in Southfield Road.

People can find out more about Clockwise services which include savings, budgeting accounts, prepaid Visa debit cards and loans.

It follows on from the recent opening of Jobcentre Plus at the Council which is already home to staff from Leicestershire Police.

Councillor Jonathan Morgan, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, said: “I’d like to welcome Clockwise to our customer services centre. It’s great to have another organisation that can help customers and we look forward to working with them. Some people still don’t have bank accounts and need support managing their finances and that’s where Clockwise can be of real help.”

Clare Shilton, Business Development Manager at Clockwise said: “We’ve had a presence in Loughborough for over eight years now and it is great to be able to offer residents of the borough a second weekly drop-in session and improve local access to our products and services.

“We are committed to working with the council and Jobcentre Plus in the customer service centre to help support and improve the financial wellbeing of the local community and its people”

The charity also needs to find volunteer hosts for two English speaking interpreters who will be accompanying the children on the charity’s programme as well as additional volunteer families who would be willing to host a vulnerable young child in their home.

All host families need to live within 30 mins commuting distance of the charity’s day centre in Markfield and should ideally have their own transport. On weekdays, hosts will be required to drop off their child/interpreter in Markfield between 8.30am and 9.00am and pick them up again at approx. 4.30pm. The children spend evenings and weekends with their host families.

All family members aged 18 and over will be required to have an enhanced DBS check and provide two referees. There are no age restrictions but hosts need to be fit, able to manage a needy young child and willing to provide them with a loving and stable home for 4 weeks.

Group Coordinator John Buckby explained “We had a great response to our appeal before Christmas, but we still need more families to come forward.

Although the children will not be arriving until 30th July 2016, there are lots of formalities that have to be completed before they are able to travel and time is against us. We need to sign up potential hosts as soon as possible if we are to stand any chance of offering a place to this needy young girl and other children on our waiting list. Hosting can be a hugely rewarding experience and I would love to hear from anyone who is interested in working in partnership with the charity to provide a life-changing recuperative holiday for a child on our programme.”

For more information visit www.focc-westleics.org.uk or contact John Buckby on 01455 285799 email john.evolution@btinternet.com

Clockwise also has a drop-in session at Loughborough library every Thursday from 10am to 1pm. An adviser can also be available at Syston Town Council offices as part of the Council’s outreach service which is held on Wednesday mornings from 9am. This Clockwise service is appointment only and to book a meeting call 0116 242 3900.

For more information about Clockwise visit www.clockwise.coop

Look Out For Real Eggs This Easter The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust is asking you to be on the look out for real ‘Easter’ Eggs this coming Easter. Traditionally, this is a time when people give their garden a spring clean.

However, this is also often the time that many garden birds start to lay their first clutch of eggs.

Neil Pilcher, Senior Conservation Officer, said “Easter is early this year and the winter weather has been remarkably mild which means that birds will also be nesting early. I would urge people to be careful. The Trust has already had reports of blackbirds building nests in gardens. It only takes a moment for a nest to be accidentally destroyed or exposed to predators.”

The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust recommends that you check your garden before starting work. Hedges are the most likely places to find nests, especially dense evergreen hedges such as Leylandii.

However, working in the same area for long periods can also cause birds to abandon their nests. People should spend just a few minutes looking through their hedges and shrubs for signs of nests before starting work.

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act all birds are protected whilst nesting. This protection starts from the moment they start building the nest until the young have fledged. The Trust recommends that if there is any doubt then the work should be postponed until the nesting season is over, which is generally accepted as 31st July.

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LOCAL LOCAL NEWS NEWS

Autism Awareness: Helping You Recognise “The Invisible Disability”

SMIGFEST 2016 Charity Live Music Event On Good Friday - Coalville For Papworth Hospital Charity Trust We are presenting the second “SMIGFEST” live music charity event on March 25th this year, (Smigfest 2016), at Hugglescote Working Men’s Club, to raise more funds for the above charity trust. This is again being held in memory of my late son in law Steven Smith, who sadly died aged just 42 at Papworth Hospital in September 2014 following a very brief illness, leaving his wife Emma and his 12 year old daughter. Steven was born and raised in Ibstock and lived in the immediate Coalville locality all his life, as his wife and daughter still do.

Emma asked for donations at his funeral, and these, together with over £3000 raised at last year’s Smigfest have resulted in a total of over £9000 being given to the charity, as of today.

Emma’s fundraising page can be found here: www.justgiving.com/ Emma-Smith105 The event is again being promoted by Ray Whitmore of Big Rock Promotions, who was a school friend of Steven’s.

SMIGFEST is another awesome night of live music, on this year’s lineup are NOISEWATER, THE SHAKERS, THE BENCH THAT ROCKED, SAM HINDS & a special show by the incredible BRASSWURST! Headlining the night, the UK's award winning MANSFIELD AVENUE!!!!

Tickets available at: www. ticketsource.co.uk/date/235432 As at last year’s event ALL proceeds are being donated to the Papworth Hospital Charity Trust. This is not only in memory of Steven, but also as a “thank you” to all the staff who played a part in Steven’s care, from housekeeping staff, through all the nursing staff, and including the doctors, consultants and surgeons who helped. Although Steven couldn’t be saved, during the 11 days he spent there the care and compassion shown by all those involved was simply beyond anything we could have hoped for, or have ever experienced before. They are a shining example of what the NHS is there for, and we will always be so grateful for their efforts.

At last year’s event we held a raffle of donated goods and services which made a large contribution to the night’s total, and this year we’re doing the same.

We’d like to ask that if anyone can donate any new items, or indeed to offer any services (free passes or money off vouchers) for this raffle please, we’d be really grateful. Offers can be made through email to leslie.powell01@ btinternet.com, or by text to 07720 073 915.

We do hope that you can help in some way.

Mountsorrel JFC Support African Children A member of Barrow Baptist Church, Richard Jayes, has recently returned from a trip to Rwanda, which was organised by the Compassion Child sponsorship Charity. Compassion works throughout the world in 26 developing countries, in trying to free children from their poverty.

Whilst in Rwanda, a visit was made to the Gihinga Child Development Centre, near Kigali, which is one of the projects run by Compassion.

The children at the centre were given gifts of clothing and school materials , and a full football strip was kindly donated by the Mountsorrel Junior Football Club.

Would you be able to tell if one of your employees was autistic?

What if someone had difficulty meeting your eyes in a job interview, would you hire them?

How would you know if someone close to you was struggling with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

You might be under the impression that the signs of autism are obvious, but Asperger’s syndrome and other autism spectrum disorders can be subtle and difficult to identify.

Often called “the invisible disability”, autism is a condition that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. As such, it’s a disability that often goes unnoticed.

Autistic people do not look disabled and often they are able to hold down jobs and stable relationships, just like anyone else. But they face a unique set of obstacles that can prevent them from reaching their full potential.

Loughborough charity Glebe House together with Leicestershire Autistic Society aims to break down some of those barriers with an Autism Awareness Information Event on Wednesday, 13 April as part of World Autism Awareness Month. Held at Loughborough’s Woodgate Chambers, the day will include a number of workshops exploring the steps to diagnosis, how to cope with behavioural issues and essential communication techniques. The National Autistic Society will also provide advice on where to seek support.

The day is free for parents and carers and £10 for business professionals eager to learn more about ASD. Peter Warlow, Chief Executive at Glebe House, said “As is always our aim, the day will focus on treating people with respect, maintaining their independence, protecting their dignity at all times and ensuring they find equality and social inclusion in their communities. However, it’s also an opportunity for business owners and professionals to come along and learn a little about people with autism spectrum disorders and to communicate with them. These could be their employees or potential employees, their customers or their clients. Learning how to recognise when people with ASD might need their support, how to communicate with them and how to serve their needs, can only help their businesses on the path to achieving greater equality for all.”

Glebe House is an independent charity that for over 30 years has been providing a comprehensive range of support services to adults and children with learning disabilities and autism.

The charity offers adult day services in three bases throughout the year, supporting people in their everyday activities and helping them to be a part of the communities in which they live.

The Autism Awareness Information Event will take place Wednesday, 13 April, at Glebe House, Woodgate Chambers, 70 Woodgate, Loughborough LE11 2TZ. For more information email marketing@glebehouseproject. org.uk or call 01509 218096.

LOCAL LOCAL ADVERTISERS NEWS

For many unmarried couples, buying a property represents a significant commitment in their relationship, and for understandable reasons people are keen to get on to, and then move up, the property ladder. Again for understandable reasons, couples often don’t entertain the idea that the relationship may break down.

As a result, proper consideration may not be given to the thorny issue of what should happen with the property, and who is entitled to what share of the equity, if the relationship comes to an end. Where both parties agree to a sale, and how the proceeds are to be split, there may be no difficulty. However if the parties disagree over who is entitled to what share of the equity and/or whether the property should be sold, problems can arise, leading to costly disputes.

For example, cohabitees may make unequal contributions to the costs of buying a property (eg the deposit, or monthly mortgage repayments), but if they own the property as Joint Tenants it will be assumed that they intended the equity to be shared equally. Also, if one Joint Tenant dies, the property will automatically pass (by survivorship) to the other Joint Tenant – even though they wouldn’t be entitled to inherit the property under the Intestacy Rules.

This can deprive children of their deceased parent’s share of the property, increasingly relevant given the number of couples that decide to co-habit, rather than marry, following an earlier divorce.

If a couple own a property as Tenants in Common (meaning that the property doesn’t pass by survivorship, as in the example above), it will still be presumed that they are each entitled to an equal share, regardless of whether contributions were equal.

Less commonly, the property will be in only one person’s name, despite the fact that both are making contributions.

Another problem area can be getting the equity out of the property, and being released from the mortgage; often one partner may need their share of the equity to use as a deposit towards the purchase of another property, and for their name to be taken off the jointly owned property to enable them to obtain a mortgage for the new property.

The law relating to property coownership is by no means simple or straightforward, and if you would like advice or assistance regarding your situation, please contact: Nick Gay n.gay@moss-solicitors.co.uk, or Laura Anderson l.anderson@moss-solicitors.co.uk

Kriss Morrison-Cooper has served Loughborough and the surrounding areas for almost 20 years as a Funeral Director and in that time has built a reputation for care, respect and empathy. He has worked his way up from being a coffin bearer to now being Loughborough’s only qualified Independent Funeral Director, running his own business in the heart of the town.

As an Independent Funeral Director Kriss can give excellent 24 hour continuity of care and an understanding of all faiths, their customs and requirements. He can offer many services and anyone walking through the door should not be afraid to ask for the unusual, from motorcycle hearses to camper vans and pink hearses to the more traditional horse drawn hearse.

Twice Awarded Leicestershire Law Society County Law Firm Of The Year.

• Company/Commercial • Commercial Property • Dispute Resolution • Employment

Given the right circumstances, it may be possible for the person who made the greater contribution to apply for a court declaration that they are, in fact, entitled to more than simply an equal share of the equity. Likewise there is scope for the person keen to sell to apply for a court order compelling the other to co-operate with the sale process.

Well Known Loughborough Funeral Director, Kriss Morrison-Cooper, Goes It Alone

Kriss is based in the old Station Hotel on Derby Road, which has seen extensive refurbishment but has retained many of the original features of this late 19th century building. The works were overseen by Kriss and he has managed to create a funeral home for the 21st century, a warm and welcoming reception area greets you on arrival with a comfortable, relaxing arranging room off. There are two tranquil chapels of rest and a wash and dress area particularly for the Sikh and Hindu community, the only one in Loughborough. The feeling overall is one of calm, something Kriss was determined to achieve after visiting many funeral homes that were cold and clinical.

9

• Family and Childcare • Moving Home • Help to Buy Scheme • Wills, Powers of Attorney and Estate Administration

T 01509 217770 - F 01509 233698

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Kriss Morrison-Cooper Dip F.D “whenever you need me, I’ll be there.”

Whatever your requirements, Kriss offers a service tailored to the customers needs and financial situation making a funeral as special and individual as it can be. Funeral plans are also available, “Planning your own funeral can relieve the pressure and financial burden on your loved ones at a very stressful time”, said Kriss.

“It really is a good idea to make your wishes known and Funeral Plans are an ideal way of ensuring your wishes are carried out.”

Kriss believes he offers a top rate service and sees families returning again and again, the highest recommendation!

So, why did Kriss decide to go it alone?

“To be in total control and to do things to my own high standard, but above all to fulfil my dream of running my own Funeral Directors.” Said Kriss.

“Kriss Morrison-Cooper Independent Funeral Director Ltd – whenever you need me, I’ll be there.”

Independent Funeral Director • 24hr Service with Continuity of Care • Tranquil Chapels of Rest • Beautiful Floral Designs • Personalised Memorials Telephone: 01509 210843 Email: kmc-fd@hotmail.com 106 Derby Road Loughborough LE11 5AG

10

LOCAL NEWS

CARILLON TOWER & WAR MEMORIAL MUSEUM 1pm - 4.30pm Every day, except Monday - 01509 263370 - carillonmuseum@gmail.com - www.loughborough-rollofhonour.com These Boots Were Made For Walking?

But Where?

We have this pair of boots which are extraordinarily wide, no markings visible except the War Office arrow so they are issue. Our favourite theory is that they were issued to native African troops who, having spent a lifetime in bare feet, had splayed feet and required a very wide fit. Nothing on the internet, can you help identify them?

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Don't Forget To Follow Us On Facebook For The Latest News Loughborough Carillon Tower & War Memorial Museum

Leicester Tigers Visit Loros Hospice

British Flare Pistol. Originally designed for use in British aircraft.

The four lugs on the front end of the barrel and the brass catch on top of the body are the means of securing the pistol to the aircraft mounting. It was also used in Tanks and AFV's (Armoured Fighting Vehicles) “For those few minutes while Alan was speaking to the Leicester Tigers players, he was my husband who loves sport again, not a patient,” said Sue Sutherington, whose husband Alan is a patient at LOROS. The Leicester Tigers squad were welcomed with open arms by the Groby Road Hospice as the team took a break from their busy season to visit terminally ill patients and their families.

Around 15 players, including Freddie Burns, Tom Croft, Tom Youngs and Manu Tuilagi, spent time in the day therapy unit, as well as on the ward, signing autographs and having photos with people.

Sue, of Markfield added: “Alan is Leicester through and through and he has always been a Tigers fan, so to see him with the players was quite emotional.

“We weren’t expecting them to visit all the patients but they did, it was refreshing, it gave us a much needed sense of normality again.”

Carol Anderton, 62, of Burbage, who is also a patient on the ward, said “My word, they were all absolutely lovely. For them to give up their time to visit the Hospice and spent time with us is really quite something.”

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The pistols fired coloured flares, either when in distress or for identification purposes. An aircraft fired on would fire the "colours of the day" a combination of two or more colours, changed daily - to prove that they were friendly.

In the early 70s some were converted to fire baton rounds (rubber bullets) and were used in riot control. (All the weapons in the museum have been de-activated) Another patient Geoffrey Essex, 91, of Coalville, added “It was really nice, they are all such good players. My daughter and son-inlaw are huge Tigers fans, so they were extremely jealous.”

Their visit was organised by Jodie Johnson, who is currently battling cancer and has recently been discharged from the ward at LOROS. 34-year-old Jodie went to school with former Leicester Tigers and England player Brett Deacon, who is now the Academy Head Coach for the club.

Speaking about the visit, Brett said “We were happy to be able to offer some of our time to call in and visit the guys at LOROS, including all the staff who do such a great job there. We consider ourselves very lucky to be in a professional sporting environment at a successful club like the Tigers, playing the sport we love, but we always appreciate how tough it can be for others. It can be especially tough for anyone with seriously ill family and friends.”

The club also donated a Tigers shirt signed by the team, which will be auctioned off by the Hospice at a later date. Find out how you can support LOROS by visiting loros.co.uk/support-us

GARDENING

11

Front Gardens

Euonymous

We often neglect our front gardens as we spend so little time in them, choosing to relax and entertain in the privacy of our back gardens. However as we use them numerous times a day when we leave and return to our home, with a little effort a neat, tidy and uncluttered front garden can be a very welcome site at the end on a hard day at work. The way we present our front garden also sets the tone for our home. Unlike our secluded rear gardens the space at the front of our property is on show to all of those who pass by, our visitors, our neighbours and even the postie! Whether you have a small postage stamp size space or a grand sweeping driveway, sprucing up the front garden is a benefit not only to ourselves but to our community too.

Planting

Front Garden Planting

For tiny front gardens a few key plants which provide evergreen structure work well such as topiary, Hebes, Euonymous. Select plants which are low maintenance and suitable for the space is key. Many new properties suffer with huge shrubs planted by the builders which get to be out of hand, so replacing with slow growing compact plants is recommended.

Colour can be added with a few pots of bright seasonal colour or a hanging basket.

For small-medium front gardens combining low maintenance

Hebe

Bel Grierson

Garden Designer & Plantswoman

shrubs with ornamental grasses and perennials can give a softer look in contrast to the hard lines of the surrounding buildings. The key is to have a good backbone of evergreen and structural shrubs to provide interest throughout the year. All of these work well planted through gravel with an underlying membrane so they can be used in conjunction with hardstanding for vehicles.

For those with space, a tree can offer screening from the neighbours and from road noise, but choose wisely. Avoid large vigorous trees which can get out of hand and cause problems with drainage and building foundations. Instead opt for dwarf or naturally small growing trees like Flowering Cherries, Crab Apples, ornamental Hawthorns or Amelanchier.

Driveways and paving

As I write, our region of the country has suffered a deluge of rain, flooding huge areas of countryside, villages and towns and major flooding events are hit the news headlines frequently.

Increasingly front gardens are being turned into parking areas for vehicles meaning that water which would once have percolated into the ground slowly, simply runs off and directly into gutters and drains causing issues further downstream If you are looking to remodel your front garden to provide belgriersondesign info@belgrierson.co.uk

hard standing for vehicles be aware that large areas must now be constructed with permeable materials to allow rain water to runoff and percolate through to the ground beneath. Specifically designed paving products are available which look like regular paving blocks but have been cleverly created to deal with water runoff efficiently. Gravel is also a good option although avoid fine pea gravels as they have a tendency to scatter.

Laying two parallel lines of paving stones in line with the car wheels can be sufficient for vehicular access whilst allowing the opportunity for low ground cover planting to weave amongst adding colour and interest and allowing water uptake by the plants. Channel drains work well to remove surface runoff, feeding water into sub-surface pipework or into soakaways.

I hope I’ve inspired you to spruce up your front garden. As spring is well and truly here my mind turns to the seed sowing for my kitchen garden. Next month I’ll be looking at what I’ll be growing to provide me with a bountiful harvest this summer.

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12

LOCAL NEWS

Shepshed RFC Advance To Semi Final Shepshed marked their return to competitive action with a solid victory over Aylestonians RFC On a day that wouldn't have seemed out of place in a David Attenborough documentary in some dreary remote part of the world, it certainly wasn't going to be a day for running rugby. The old rivalry with Aylestonians was rekindled for the Presidents Cup quarter final at Knighton Lane. A competition that has historically been kind to Shepshed over the past couple of years with a Semi Final and Final berth in the past 2 years, the hope of going one step further is the goal this season.

With Shepshed not having tasted competitive Rugby for a number of months we could have been forgiven for being a little bit rusty in the opening minutes but with the elements behind us in the first half we sought to take advantage from the get go. The forwards were working hard to secure the ball in what we should call "fiercely" competitive breakdowns. The first chance for points presented itself after 10 minutes with Aylestonians pinged at a ruck in front of the posts for being off their feet. Blake Turner compensated for the howling wind to slot it straight between the posts with Zac Crewe bravely steadying the ball on the tee.

(AYL 0-3 SHE) It didn't take long for Mark Etherington to take his opportunity to get in on the action with a mazing run past around 3 defenders from 20 metres out to he righthand side of the posts.

Blake Turner tried his best to slot the conversion but the wind had other ideas and pushed it across the face of the posts.

(AYL 0-8 SHE) The breakdowns kept coming with the referee pinging both sides for various offences and the frustration on both sides was growing.

Shepshed maintained their early pressure and after a ruck just short of Aylestonians 5m line, shipped it out to the right through the hands for Carl Wasilewski to power over the line. The wind blew away any hope of an extra 2 points in what would have been a difficult kick in the best of conditions.

(AYL 0-13 SHE) Captain Darren Perry was doing well to manage the player/referee relations in what was becoming a scrappy affair and the threat of a yellow card ever present on both sides. In what seemed like Aylestonians first trip into the Shepshed 22, they did well to recycle the ball through a number of phases and dragged enough defenders in to create themselves a small gap to the left hand side

of the posts. Fortunately the wind was not playing favourites and pushed the conversion attempt wide of the posts. (AYL 5-13 SHE).

The first half came to an end shortly after with both teams just trying to maintain possession in the tricky conditions.

HT: AYL 5-13 SHE The second half could have proved tricky for Shepshed going against the wind and a lack of recent game time sure to become an issue as the game wore on, but some good tactical kicking from Mark Etherington helped at some key points in the game. The referees patience finally snapped when Shepshed tried to take a quick tap penalty and an Aylestonian defender took downLuke Atkinson after retreating only 2 metres and he brandished the first yellow card of the game.

With the one man advantage Shepshed looked to keep the possession and put on some pressure but the elements proved a useful ally to Aylestonians who stood firm to repel any danger.

Just 8 minutes after the first yellow card Aylestonians were reduced to 13 men after a carbon copy of the first yellow card. Shepshed took the 3 points on offer with Blake Turner duly slotting the penalty straight through the posts.

With Shepshed playing smart and dominating possession Tom Jarram thought he better even the game up and was pinged at a breakdown for being off his feet. However by all accounts it perhaps should have been Paul Wilkens, who by this time would have earned a rest. Despite losing a man Shepshed maintained the possession and shortly after finally broke through the Aylestonians defence with David Mayne on the receiving end of some good hands to simply jog over the line to dot down (don't believe his version of events). (AYL 5 -21) The game settled into a forward dominated game with Aylestonians piling on some pressure in the Shepshed 22 but to no avail. A penalty in the final 5 minutes from Mark Etherington sealed the win and sent Shepshed marching into the Semi Final for a third year in a row. Overall a good game in some tricky conditions and the dark arts of Rugby were definitely on show from both sides making the referee earn his match fee.

Shepshed RFC have been drawn to play Burbage RFC at home in the Semi Final. The game is due to be played on Saturday 12th March 2016.

Shepshed RFC Announce New Junior Section

Boys & Girls aged Under 5 and Under 6 (Foundation Year & Year 1) however due to popular demand we will be looking at expanding this as soon as we can.

After months of planning, set backs & more planning, We are happy to announce the launch date for our new junior section named the Shepshed Lambs The launch date for this exciting new chapter in our clubs history is Sunday 6th March. The session will run weekly from 10am-11am at Shepshed High School playing fields (near the overflow car park).

Sessions will cot just ÂŁ2 per week, with a small membership fee to pay a of August 2016 which will include T shirt and other goodies.

Shepshed Lambs is designed to provide a lasting source of sports and exercise for local kids. The aim is to provide a fun and safe environment for them to learn the basics of Rugby and develop both physically, mentally and socially.

We are currently taking on both

We hope to see you at the opening session as we look to build a solid future for our club!

13

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LOUGHBOROUGH LIONS 3 C’s 2ND CYCLE RIDE SUNDAY 17 APRIL 2016 In aid of the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance Following last year’s successful Loughborough Lions Charity Cycle Ride join us this year for our 2nd CYCLE RIDE. The route starts and finishes @ Loughborough University (with changing, toilets & showers available) following mostly cycle tracks and quieter roads through parts of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

A refreshment post will be available around the halfway point at Breaston.

This is a really enjoyable ride of around 50 miles through lovely countryside.

Each cyclist is asked for a £5 entry fee and sponsorship of a minimum of £50. Go on, help keep fit and raise funds for Air Ambulance at the same time. Air Ambulance is so important to us all, let’s help keep them flying.

The entry and sponsorship forms are on: www.loughborough.lions105e.org.uk or more information from Ann Parsons, Tel 01509 232422 mail@charnwoodties.co.uk 91 Farndale Dr, Loughborough, LE11 2RG

Meet our 1620s Heritage Experts to become a volunteer at Donington le Heath Manor House!

House interpreter volunteer registration, Heritage garden volunteer registration, Wednesday 6th April, Sunday 24th of April, 10am-12noon 2-4pm

Find out how you can help bring our Manor House back to life!

To book your space please contact Nicola Seika by Friday 1st of April

Do you have a skill to share?

Join our flexible, fun and creative team!

Tel: 0116 305 0552 Email: nicola.seika@leics.gov.uk

www.leicestershire.gov.uk/volunteering /leicestershirevolunteering

14

LOCAL NEWS

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

BOROUGH COUNCILLOR

T: 01509 262723 E: nicky.morgan.mp@parliament.uk

E: cllr.jonathan.morgan@charnwood.gov.uk

NICKY MORGAN

JONATHAN MORGAN More than just tick-box consultations Charnwood Borough Council carries-out a residents and business survey every other year to try to measure public opinion to services and policy. The surveys are either via paper submissions or through the Council's website, and usually record well over a thousand responses. Which is good. But perhaps not that good.

I was pleased to be part of a meeting between Leicestershire MPs and Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Greg Clark, last month in which we made the case for further funding for Leicestershire County Council.

Leicestershire has always been one of the worst funded authorities due to historic anomalies. Funding for the County Council is changing and by 2020 its funding will be raised and kept locally. Greg Clark has agreed to give the County Council an extra £6.6million over the next two years to address some of their concerns. I believe this is good news for local residents and the right thing to do.

Last month also saw the turfcutting ceremony to mark the formal start of the works for the new Great Central Bridge over the Midland Mainline. As I know from marking English Tourism Week recently Great Central Railway last year attracted over 138,000 visitors and tourism is worth £1.5billion to Leicestershire and Leicester. Creating an even longer line to run between Leicester and the edge of Nottingham and the new Railway Museum at Leicester will attract even more visitors which is good news for our area.

I was also delighted to be present at the re-launch of Loughborough charity Minnie’s Friends. Founded

by Carol Phillips in memory of her daughter, Donna, Minnie’s offers support and a welcome to those most in need for a whole variety of reasons. My office has worked closely with the charity to provide assistance to those they are helping. Now based at the United Reformed Church in Frederick Street it is great to see Minnie’s starting a new phase.

Many of you will be aware that a referendum on whether to stay in a reformed EU or for Britain to leave the EU will be held on 23 June. This is a momentous step and a clear delivery of one of the commitments given in our manifesto last year. We have not had a vote on our membership of what was then the EEC for 41 years. I would urge everyone to take part because this is very important and relevant for the future of this country. Speaking personally, I believe Britain is stronger, safer and better off in a reformed EU and will be voting for us to remain – but every reader gets their own vote so we all have an equal say.

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The reason for not being completely positive about the survey is that it relies on people responding, rather than being surveyed. The difference is quite important, since the former favours those who are enthusiastic to respond (whether because they are have time, resources or determination to express an opinion), rather than the latter, which tries to gain a genuine crosssection of opinion, reflective of the 180,000 residents in Charnwood.

It is the case that the current survey method used by the Council is a lower cost than the alternatives, and whilst it still offers an interesting insight into people's views, it is hard to argue that it truly reflects the views of all residents. This point has been discussed in detail, and indeed was raised by the Council's own Scrutiny group, and then again at the last Council meeting. There seems to be agreement across all councillors that when we seek the opinion of our residents, we need to make sure that the results are robust, reflect the whole Borough, and not just those that choose to respond.

This point was reinforced at a recent meeting when I was asked a question as to the value of consultations - in

truth, many are completed to satisfy legal requirements to 'consult' - whether they be for planning applications or decision making. There is a risk that the consultations are completed as quickly and cheaply as possible, and thus rely on websites for selfselected responses. We need to explore better ways of consulting residents, so as to reflect more opinions, enabling us to place more weight on the results, rather than just ticking a box and moving on. It's a complex area, balancing legal requirements with gaining useful insight into what the majority of residents actually think - but we do need to look at changes to improve what we do.

Anniversaries Having given up coffee and discussion of the June referendum for Lent (which I'm tempted to extend to include Lent 2017!), I did want to mention some 'Europe' related anniversaries that will take place over the next few months. Loughborough is twinned with a number of European towns in Germany, France, Belgium and Poland, and several of these will celebrate significant milestones this year. I will describe these in more detail over the next few months - but please do look out for information, or if you are interested in taking part, please do contact the Council.

In addition, it is the 175th anniversary of Thomas Cook's first package tour, from Leicester to Loughborough. It makes me proud to think that we played such an important part in something that we all now take for granted - the ability to travel for pleasure, safely and securely to almost any part of the globe.

Question Time For Dishley Grange Patients An evening of Questions and Answers about issues of interest to patients of the Dishley Grange Medical Practice is planned for Wednesday 20th April at Gorse Covert Community Centre, Loughborough starting at 7.00pm.

The Patients’ Group has drawn together an expert panel to address issues that are of interest and concern to patients.

Presentations on how local GPs will be working closer together to provide certain services and on the Patients’ Group’s awardwinning Health Walks programme will also feature.

Jerry Bullock, the Group’s Chair, has commented “This is a terrific opportunity for the Practice’s patients to hear about what is happening locally and to ask questions”.

The event will form part of the Patients’ Group’s AGM and all patients of the Dishley Grange Medical Practice are welcome to attend. Further information about the meeting and the Group is available from the two surgeries (Maxwell Drive and Cross Street, Hathern) and on the Practice’s website.

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Changes at recycling sites From April 2016

Leicestershire.gov.uk/waste-and-recycling

Revised opening days and times

April-September, 9am-7pm | October-March, 9am-4pm

Recycling and household waste sites

M

Loughborough

  

Shepshed Whetstone KEY:

- Cement-bonded asbestos

T W T   ✗ ✗ ✗  ✗ ✗ 

- Paint



F ✗  

Site open

S

S

  

  

✗ Site closed

Chargeable items

Waste must be separated and will be charged by type.

Including concrete, rubble, glass windows, all ceramics, bathroom furniture and tiles.

£3

each or 20 litres (or part 20 litres)

Including plasterboard sheets (1.8x0.9m), plaster and coving.

£3

each or 20 litres (or part 20 litres)

Double wrap sheets in clear plastic sheeting. Permits* are required in advance.

£10

Payment to be made on site by credit or debit card only (no cash)

✓

each or 20 litres (or part 20 litres)

✗

Permits* for paint° are required in advance °Paint can only be disposed of at Whetstone. *Permits are free of charge. Call our customer service centre 0116 305 0001 or visit Leicestershire.gov.uk/waste-permits