January 2015 - Shepshed Community Eye

SHEPSHED

1

COMMUNITY EYE

FREE MONTHLY LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, PUZZLES, COMPETITIONS & MORE

IN THE GARDEN WITH BEL

ISSUE 46 - JANUARY 2015

SPICED CARROT & LENTIL SOUP Vegetarian & Low Fat

Creating Your Dream Garden

SHEPSHED COMMUNITY NATIVITY

Raise £825 For The Shepshed Food Bank

SHEPSHED SINGERS

Singing Really Is Good For Your Health

SHEPSHED ASSOCIATION FOR THE PROSECUTION OF FELONS AGM & Dinner

NEWCROFT PRIMARY SCHOOL

Receives Food For Life Bronze Award & Enhanced Healthy Schools Status

WINDOW DISPLAY

Christmas 2014 Window Winner & Runner’s Up

BUY ONE GET ONE HALF PRICE ON ALL ADVERTS, CALL 0800 6446150 TODAY! FULL PAGE

£225+vat

HALF PAGE £120+vat

QUARTER PAGE £70+vat

*Offer valid until 31st Januaury 2015. No cash value. One offer per customer only.

EIGHTH PAGE £40+vat

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

Charnwood Landscaping Hard Landscaping Specialist

• Block Paving • Patios • Decking • Turfing • Fencing Fully Insured, Local Company

Contact us to arrange for a free consultation T: 01509 550422 - M: 07541304447 E: charnwood.landscaping@hotmail.co.uk W: www.charnwood-landscaping.co.uk

with Leicestershire Adult Learning Service

Learn today for a better tomorrow!

Fee reductions available

Choose from a whole range of exciting, affordable courses for adults starting in the Shepshed, Coalville and Loughborough area in the New Year 2015 Computing: Get Into IT, Computer Confidence - Improve Your Skills, Windows 8 - An Introduction, Website Development, IT Skills for Employment Workshop - Levels 1 or 2, Spreadsheet Refresher Workshop, Make the Most of your Tablet, Raspberry Pi - Programming for Beginners

Easy payment options FREE information and advice on learning and work

Arts and Wellbeing: Drawing and Painting – all levels, Sugarcraft – Masterclass, Jewellery Making - Fun with Wire & Beads, Pilates - Mixed Ability, Guitar - Improvers Level, Confidence - Improving Your Confidence & Self Esteem, Neuro-Linguistic Programming - Make Positive Changes, Singing for Wellbeing, Volunteering - Is This For You?, Creative Writing - Get Started, Textiles - Advanced Classes - Image Transfer/Silk Fibres, Textiles - Creative Sewing Workshop, Textiles - Patchwork & Quilting Workshop, Saturday courses: Drawing & Painting Advanced Approaches, Astronomy - A Beginners Guide, Creative Crochet, Felting for Beginners

Better computer skills help me at work and home

Languages: Makaton, French Beginners, French for Holidays, Italian Beginners, Italian for Holidays, Spanish Beginners, Spanish for Holidays and ESOL FREE English and Maths up to level 2 FREE Skills for Jobs courses

I met new friends on my language course

Contact us for more information and to enrol: online at www.leics.gov.uk/GoLearn call 0116 305 5629, 0116 305 0820 or Freephone 0800 988 0308

N0635

2

WELCOME

3

Welcome to your January Community Eye magazine

H

appy new year from all of us at Open Box Promotions!

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY:

Ian Plimmer © ____________________________________

JOIN & FOLLOW US

b facebook.com/community_eye a twitter.com/community_eye ____________________________________

EDITOR

MIRIAM BENTLEY T: 0800 6446150 E: editor@openboxpromotions.co.uk

SALES TEAM

TERESA FREARSON M: 07429043217 E: teresa@openboxpromotions.co.uk DAWN HARRIS T: 0800 6446150 E: dawn@openboxpromotions.co.uk

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

ANDREW LEWIS M: 07504634838 E: andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk

PUBLISHED BY OPEN BOX PROMOTIONS LTD

T: 0800 6446150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk Open Box Promotions Ltd, 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, LE9 2HQ

PRINTED BY

NORWOOD PRESS LTD T: 01530 262020 E: info@norwoodpress.co.uk W: www.norwoodpress.co.uk Norwood Press, Unit 1, Moore Road, South Leicester Industrial Estate, Ellistown, LE67 1EU ____________________________________

NEXT ISSUE OUT DEADLINE DATE: 25th January 2015 DELIVERY DATE: 4th February 2015 Deadline and delivery dates are subject to change depending on how far we are ahead or behind. ____________________________________ The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the original advertisers & contributors and do not necessarily represent Community Eye or Open Box Promotions Ltd. Open Box Promotions Ltd reserves the right to amend or refuse to publish articles or adverts submitted for publication. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. To see full terms & conditions visit www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/terms

I hope that you all had a lovely Christmas and are ready for 2015! This edition is full of local news stories and also a nice winter warming recipe. The New Year is often a time when we look at ways to stay healthy and make new promises to ourselves that we will start new clubs or make new friends. This month’s feature is about the health benefits of singing and follows a study that shows just how much singing can improve mood. Many of us who enjoy a good sing in the shower already know just how much better you can feel after blasting out a few notes (or non notes in my case!) We have lots of

local singing groups so why not give it a try this year and improve you mood as well as your social circle?

We also have our regular features and competitions and I would like to thank all of our contributors for their support throughout 2014 and on in to 2015.

If you know of a community group or school who would like their articles featured pleased ask them to get in touch with me. We are also keen to support new businesses and new advertisers so call a member of our sales team to see how we can help you.

Enjoy your magazine and I’ll carry on writing your February edition.

SHEPSHED SINGERS ‘As a pick me up after the Christmas festivities, the Shepshed Singers, under the musical direction of Richard West, are hosting a ‘Come and Sing Mozart’s Requiem event’ This will take place on 17th January 2015 at the Trinity Methodist Church Centre in Loughborough. Application forms will be available for download from the Shepshed Singers website: www.shepshedsingers.org.uk Or email them tickets@shepshedsingers.org.uk For those who wish to hear the organ accompanied result of the day’s rehearsal, there will be a performance of this wonderful work on the evening of 17th.

% 15all ff eyewear

SHEPSHED HISTORY SOCIETY Shepshed History Society once more deviated from the normal routine for their December meeting and instead of speakers, members enjoyed a very light hearted evening of entertainment given by 'Flossie' A very well known Leicestershire singer and entertainer who sang a variety of well known songs mainly from the films at the same time changing dresses to accompany the different melodies. Interspersed of course by comedy as she cleverly changed these outfits without losing her decorum.

Finally everyone joined in singing a variety of well known carols.

Later a very enjoyable supper and hot punch was provided for society members and the evening was a great success all round.

The speaker for the January meeting will be Mr Ernie Miller who will explain the origins and different aspects of the River Lyn.

SHEPSHED RAMBLERS Shepshed Ramblers has recently finalised its walking programme for 2015. The walks are various in length and cover different parts of the county. The Group meets in Shepshed Market Place at 09.25 on the third Sunday of the month for a prompt 09.30 departure, usually returning between 2.00 and 3.00 pm and the first walk for 2015 is through Sparkling Swithland Woods. What better way than to work off the festive season excess! Walkers carry a coffee break and packed lunch. If anyone requires further information, please contact Margaret on 01509 600510 or Bernie on 01509 828328. A warm welcome to all is guaranteed.

POPPY APPEAL NOVEMBER 2014 On behalf of the “Royal British Legion” a BIG thank you to the people of Shepshed for donations totalling £4,072.12. Once again, thanks for your generosity and thoughts during the appeal.

Submitted by Bob Willmott BEM Honorary Poppy Appeal Organiser

01509 503344 When you bring in this advert, limited to 1 per person.

Valid till 28th Feb 2015

MILLS-STONE FENCING & PAVING

Based in Shepshed Leicestershire Established 1987 We cover an entire range of hard landscaping and paving •Driveways, Slabbing and Patios •Brickwork, Fencing and Tree Work For a Free Quote contact Patrick on T: 01509 554690 - M: 07761235801 E: millsstonepaving@hotmail.com W: www.millsstonepaving.co.uk

4

LOCAL NEWS

SINGING REALLY IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH!

SHEPSHED & DISTRICT TWINNING ASSOCIATION The Twinning Association has had a busy few months, with a range of activities – games evenings, local walks, French film evenings, and meals together.

This was the weekend of the town’s Christmas market, which we visited on the Saturday morning. Later, many people went into Paris, to see the Christmas decorations.

In the new year, there may be a return visit by our friends from Domont.

The Twinning Association welcomes new members. For more information, please go to our website: www.shepshedtwinning.co.uk.

In December, a group of members visited our twin town of Domont, an attractive market town about 20 km north of Paris. We stayed in families, and were made very welcome (as always).

On our first evening there was a gettogether for visitors and hosts, with plenty of food and drink.

It may look and sound like simple singing, but only now are its benefits being realised.

W

e are tapping into one of the greatest things of our culture that is the whole tradition of choral singing.

Professor of Music at Canterbury Christ Church University, Grenville Hancox, has teamed up with health professional, Professor Stephen Clift to run a research centre for Arts and Health.

‘There are different kinds of issues effecting different groups in society, but singing is a kind of universal activity that people can engage in from birth onwards, literally.’

They recently invited Dr Maria Sandgren, a Swedish psychologist, to present the results of a new study.

The study was completed last year with 218 choral singers in Stockholm.

Maria measured their emotional state before and after singing. And the results were quite unbelievable.

‘We could see that every positive emotion increased. I mean, the intensity, like "excited, alert, hopeful, relaxed, harmonic, to be present." One might say that the positive emotions increased a lot, but the negative emotions decreased even more, and pain decreased enormously.’

‘It would seem we're pretty good at the MOT-type activities in health, we can replace the hip and that's great, but it's very difficult to replace the emotional heart. We have to look at other ways of doing that.’

Choral singing enables you to hear a sound produced from your own mouth that then is reverberated by others in your group and together you produce a magnificent huge sound.

‘We could also see that they felt more together after the choral singing and also less alone.’ Choral singing is definitely a very social phenomenon and the research appears to prove it.

Even though many people feel they're not able to sing, with sufficient encouragement everybody can sing, it costs nothing and it can have very dramatic and very rapid effects on people's mood state.

Still not convinced ? Here are some quotes from the Shepshed Singers: “When I was teaching, I'd always come home absolutely drained.

Wednesday choir practices were the highlight of my week as the music always took one into a different world - one of relaxation, calm and peace.

Never failed to sleep well after a choir practice!”

“When I sit in the Beaumanor Air Raid Shelter when the kids are really scared (some in tears) we always sit together and sing. Run Rabbit, Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Mayor, The Ovaltinies Song etc. Kids who have used words like 'petrified, terrified,...' to describe their feelings during the raid always come out smiling, skipping and laughing after the songs have lifted them out of their sadness and fear.”

“On a blissfully sunny warm summer's day when you are strolling lazily through the fields or languishing in a boat on a gentle river. What does you almost automatically do - sing or hum a favourite tune. Our senses are fine tuned into music whether we are good at singing or not.”

“For me singing certainly raises the mood, as it necessitates complete concentration and therefore provides a break from worrying: I find it impossible to worry and sing at the same time. A focus outside everyday activities brings relief and relaxation.

The deep breathing must also benefit health, as I can think of no other activity where I have to consciously control breathing and expand the lungs to the same extent. Presumably this physical activity releases endorphins, which bring us back to improved mood.”

“I find singing beneficial to ones breathing as it expands the chest and abdominal muscles, and gives you a feeling of well being. It's good to get together in a choir with like minded people and have made many of friends through this. It also stimulates the mind by continuing to learn new songs, not only in English, but in many other languages too.”

NEW YEAR - NEW START TIME TO GET YOUR LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY SORTED?

is no longer of sound mind, e.g.

Alzheimer’s or a coma. This is not the time for loved ones to find out that they have little or no power.

If you became seriously ill or incapacitated who have you appointed to look after your affairs?

Your bank accounts can be frozen (even joint accounts in some cases) and other investments can become difficult to access. Unpaid bills could start to pile up simply because nobody has the LEGAL authority to act on your behalf.

It is important that you appoint somebody that you trust to do this for you whenever you are unable to do so now or in the future.

It can become very trying for loved one to look after your day to day finances especially where your signature or other ID is required.

Whilst you are fit and well you normally have no problem going about your normal everyday affairs. But what if you were to be injured and became incapacitated as a result; or what if you became seriously ill? Who can now look after your financial affairs?

SO MAKE IT EASIER FOR THOSE PEOPLE YOU CARE ABOUT AND SET UP YOUR LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY NOW.

Many people think that their spouse, son or daughter could: and it often comes as a shock when they discover they cannot. These things become even more self evident when someone

Contact Chris, Clare or Pam at Just Wills & Legal Services and arrange a Home Visit. Tel: 01509 507334 (Home) or 08450 568571 (Office)

WE ALSO DO WILLS – TRUSTS- ESTATE PLANNING

Have You Made Your Will Yet ?

For Wills - Trusts - Estate Planning & Lasting Power of Attorney

JUST WILLS & LEGAL SERVICES (formerly In Home Legal Services)

Mrs Chris Thomas & Mrs Pam Draycott 01509 507334 (Home) - 08450 568571 (Office) 90 The Meadows, Shepshed Member of The Society Of Will Writers

LOCAL NEWS

CHRISTMAS 2014 WINDOW WINNER AND RUNNER’S UP The Chairman of Council, would like to thank everyone who participated this year, the decision was not an easy one, there are so many lovely windows. It certainly helps to brighten up Shepshed during the Festive Period.

The Winner was Love Heart Home - Marion Preston was presented with the plaque by the Chairman of Council, Cllr Joan Tassell Runner’s Up – Through the Looking Glass – Amanda Turner; The Salon – Sammi Howe and Acacia Curtains and Blinds – Judy Andrews and Caroline Thompson, who were all presented with a certificate by the Chairman of Council, Cllr Joan Tassell.

Love Heart Home Marion Preston

Through the Looking Glass Amanda Turner

5

SPICED CARROT AND LENTIL SOUP VEGETARIAN AND LOW FAT

INGREDIENTS • 2 tsp cumin seeds • Pinch chilli flakes • 2 tbsp olive oil • 600g carrots, washed and coarsely grated (no need to peel) • 140g split red lentils • 1l hot vegetable stock (from a cube is fine) • 125ml milk (use almond or soya milk if a vegan meal is required) • Plain yogurt (again soya is fine) to serve

METHOD Heat a large saucepan and dry-fry the cumin seeds and chilli flakes for 1 min, or until they start to jump around the pan and release their aromas.

Remove half of the seeds from the pan and set aside.

Add the oil, carrot, lentils, stock and milk to the pan and bring to the boil.

Simmer for around 15 mins until the lentils have swollen and softened.

Puree the soup with a stick blender or in a food processor until smooth (or leave it chunky if you prefer).

The Salon Sammi Howe

Acacia Curtains and Blinds Judy Andrews and Caroline Thompson

NEWCROFT RECEIVES FOOD FOR LIFE BRONZE AWARD AND ENHANCED HEALTHY SCHOOLS STATUS

SHEPSHED SLIMMERS CELEBRATE LOSING 46 AND A HALF STONES HELPING WISHES 4 KIDS A group of big-hearted slimmers from Shepshed are celebrating losing 46 & a half stones between them and raising £300 as part of a sponsored slim for Wishes 4 Kids.

Members of the Shepshed Slimming World group, which is held every week at St Winefrides School hall, were taking part in a national campaign called Slim for Good running across all 11,000 Slimming World groups in the UK and Ireland. The aim of the six-week drive, was to help people to lose weight and improve their health while raising money for a good cause in their local area.

The slimmers in the Shepshed group voted for the worthy charity they wanted to support throughout the campaign and chose Wishes 4 Kids because they grant a wish for children and youngsters in Leicestershire who are life limited, terminally ill, have experienced life-changing physical or emotional traumas, have suffered major abuse or are diagnosed as HIV Positive.

Christina Herrod, who runs the group and has lost 2 stones in total herself, says the Slim for Good campaign gave members of the group an added incentive to achieve their weight-loss dreams: “Supporting a worthwhile cause like Wishes 4 Kids has given

Season to taste and finish with a spoonful of yogurt and a sprinkling of the reserved toasted spices. Best served with warmed naan breads.

everyone a special focus and real commitment to their weight-loss goals.

For many members being sponsored has been a great way to kick start their weight loss and for others it’s been a boost to help them stay on track. At Slimming World we pride ourselves on the care and support we give each other to lose weight – we’re known as the club with the big heart – so when members started talking about raising money for Wishes 4 Kids and what we could all do together, there really was no stopping us. I’m so proud of what the members in the group have achieved during the last six weeks and the amazing fundraising Sam Gee & Sally Sarson have achieved.”

Christina hopes the group’s success will inspire other people in the local community to lose weight and improve their health too. She says: “Six weeks doesn’t sound like a long time, but in that period I’ve seen so many changes, people losing weight, feeling happier and healthier than ever, and their confidence increasing. And the really great thing is that as they’ve lost weight the Slimming World way, they’ve achieved all this without ever going hungry or feeling deprived.”

For further information please contact Christina on 07757746383.

PHOTO: Left to right – Abbie Foster, Charlotte Jacques, Scarlett Stafford, Brandan Neale with representatives from Food for Life.

Newcroft Primary School was one of six schools across the county to recently receive a special award for their outstanding work with school meals and food education.

Pupils, teachers, caterers and special guests enjoyed a day of celebration at Thurlaston Country Park as winners of the Food for Life Partnership award.

The event was a joint celebration with Leicestershire Healthy Schools with schools also receiving Enhanced Healthy School Status.

Councillor Ernie White, lead member for Health at Leicestershire County Council, said “These awards reflect a lot of hard work and it’s great to see really good work in so many schools being recognised. Food for Life Partnership is

working with Public Health to transform school culture by getting pupils and teachers involved in growing and cooking food, setting up school farmers markets and improving the quality of meals and the food experience.”

Alex Smythe, Head teacher at Newcroft said “we are delighted to be able to add two more awards to our growing collection of achievements this year.

We are enriching our curriculum here at Newcroft and the children have a love of the school and a pride in developing our healthy lifestyles.

We're not standing still! Building on the Outstanding Ofsted report from September. It has been an excellent year for Newcroft and this is down to all the hard work of staff, governors and of course our amazing children!”

6

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

ShepshedFord Visit www.shepshedford.co.uk for even more great deals!

FAMILY RUN FOR OVER 30 YEARS Shepshed Ford are a family owned business that has been established for more than 30 years.

Sales: 01509 508008/9 Services: 01509 508673

Shepshed Ford will not be beaten on price, we have full access to the Ford Direct Scheme around 1500 nearly new Fords.

For the slightly older model we have a wide variety of vehicles up to 8 years old.

Please contact us for great deals on New Fords and take a look at our website www.shepshedford.co.uk for all quality used vehicles.

All used cars are supplied with a Customer Loyalty Discount Voucher and a full warranty.

Try our fully equipped workshop and bodyshop for all your services, MOT and bodywork.

SERVICING OPENING HOURS: Mon Fri 8am - 6pm Sat 8am - 12pm Sun - Closed

AFTERSALES • Ford Trained Technicians • MOT While You Wait • Courtesy Cars • Free Local Collection & Delivery (10 mile radius)

SALES OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm Sat 8:30am - 4:30pm Sun 10:30am - 3:30pm

Shepshed Ford, 290 Charnwood Road, Shepshed, Loughborough, Leics, LE12 9EN

Get LEAN in 2015

Whether it’s getting fitter, losing weight or exercising with like minded people then my classes are for you!

Get in touch

0116 2392880 - 07966 107244 www.live2befit.co.uk WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Greenfields Sports & Social Club, Holt Drive, Loughborough, LE11 3HZ 10.00 – 11.30 am

Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall, 50 Main Street, Woodhouse Eaves, LE12 8RZ 9.45 – 11.00 am

Woodbrook Vale High School, Grasmere Road, Loughborough, LE11 2ST 6.15 – 7.30 pm 7.30 – 8.30 pm

Shepshed High School, Forest Street, Shepshed, LE12 9DA 6.15 – 7.45 pm 7.50 – 8.40 pm

7

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

Advertisement

It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services.

Managing Director Michael Parr feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is 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.

Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done.

We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer

requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’

Cloudy2Clear service Shepshed & the surrounding area and Michael is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I

get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’

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

STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Don’t replace the Frames... just the Panes!

Broken or Damaged Windows?

Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks?

Want The Latest Energy Saving Glass?

All Glazing Backed By Our 5 Year Manufacturers Guarantee Priority Freephone

0800 61 21118 www.cloudy2clear.com ...we make saving money perfectly clear...

ddSAd d W

Coalville Furniture Superstore

IN

uPHOLSTERy - leather and fabric suites

TE

W

O

R

N

N

O

BEdROOM FuRniTuRE

Independent furniture retailer for: l Great value dininG l Huge choice FuRniTuRE l Excellent service Coalville Furniture Superstore 79 - 81 Belvoir Road, Coalville LE67 3PH (former Co-op department store) Tel: 01530 833311

LE

ELECTRiC LiFT and RiSE CHaiRS

CHaiRS

BEdS - divans and bed frames

d

ELECTRiC adJuSTaBLE BEdS

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

Free customer car park at rear

FOR aLL yOuR FuRniTuRE nEEdS

8

WINDOW DRESSING

Process Of Lamination!

Let us create a unique blind for your home with a fabric of your choice.

Using a unique lamination process we can turn your choice of fabric into a roller, vertical, or panel blind, without changing the appearance or feel of the fabric.

For more details please call Caroline Thompson Acacia Curtains and Blinds 0795 1619046

For verticals this works particularly well as a working blind behind a dress curtain, offering privacy and light control and as a stylish alternative to a roman blind.

For rollers you can add a shaped edge, braiding, or even beading and crystals as a finishing touch.

For panel blinds your fabric could change the appearance of a patio door and can also be matched to wallpaper.

The possibilities are endless!

All styles are available with a blackout option making them perfect for bedrooms.

Contact Caroline Thompson Telephone 01509 821016 Mobile 0795 1619046

www.acaciacurtains.com

R J Brearley Construction

NE

W

yo We ur ca pl n h um e bi lp y ng o en u w qu ith ire s

For a designer look why not consider a matching pelmet or valance? We will be happy to discuss all the above options with you and can offer a wide range of beautiful fabrics suitable for this window treatment.

CARPENTRY & JOINERY SPECIALIST GENERAL BUILDING, PLASTERING & TILING Your Local Gas & Plumbing Specialist

SAVE ENERGY & £’s by installing a new ‘A’ rated condensing boiler or new central heating system from only £1600.00

+vat

All property Maintenance, Alterations & Refurbishment work undertaken • Internal • Kitchens and Bathroom • Doors & Windows • Real Wood & Laminate Floors • Bespoke Joinery Service • Stairs & Balustrading

External • Soft/Hardwood Decking Extension Work • Traditional & truss Roofs • 1st & 2nd Fixes • Garage Conversions

All Commercial & Domestic Work Welcome - Free & Convenient Estimates Given Reliable, Tidy & Professional Service Assured

Richard Brearley - Tel: 01509 606453 Mob: 07867 554 981 Email: rjbconstruction@live.co.uk - Based in Shepshed

Mobile Foot Health Practitioner A.A Foot Recovery

Call today to book a FREE no obligation quote or for more information

0116 2303 234 info@mgas.co.uk • www.mgas.co.uk

Do you suffer from...

• Problems with cutting your nails • Fungal or thickened toenails • Corns • Callus/hard skin • Dry/cracked heels • Athlete’s foot • Verrucas Professional & friendly foot health treatment & advice provided in the comfort of your own home!

Abigail Adams - Foot Health practitioner - BSc (Hons), S.A.C. Dip F.H.P.T, S.A.C. Dip F.H.P.P.

GARDENING

CREATING YOUR DREAM GARDEN

T

he New Year is a great time to reflect on the year past & dream of the long sunny days in the garden to come. If your garden looked tired in 2014, lacked colour and drama then now is the time to make plans for a great garden in 2015.

CREATING THE GARDEN OF YOUR DREAMS

Creating a planting plan

Developing a design

Gardens can quickly become untidy and unmanageable with shrubs which have outgrown their space, flowers which flop & a hotch-potch of impulse purchase plants. Most family gardens have an existing lawn and patio with need a little regular maintenance but like the flooring in our homes although they serve a purpose, they rarely offer much in the way of decorative excitement! Like our interior soft furnishings, wall coverings & ornaments, It’s the planting in a garden which adds the colour and drama. With a planting revamp your garden can be a bright, colourful and fun place to spend time.

Planting design is my speciality, as an experienced plantswoman I love to create plant rich spaces to excite, inspire or soothe. Whether you desire a garden to enjoy with your friends & family in the summer or a relaxing hideaway to destress after a long day, plants are perfect for setting the right mood and injecting some colour and drama.

DESIGNING WITH PLANTS Establishing how you want the garden to look, how it will be used, when and by whom, is the first step in the design process. Following a consultation and

Selecting the plants

9

a survey of the garden, a planting scheme can be developed to transform the space whether it’s to become a contemporary outdoor room, an entertaining space, calming courtyard or a wildlife friendly haven.

With such a huge range of plants to choose from it can be tempting to cram all sorts in! By selecting groups of plants which will provide the structure, the bright flowering colour and the softening foliage, a patchwork of random plants can be avoided. So before I choose the individual plants I decide which groups will be need for the overall scheme. For example: The BBQ & party friendly garden – Would comprise of background of low maintenance shrubs for the structure, grasses for the softening foliage and bright, long lasting perennials for colour during the summer party season. Pots of colourful perennials & herbs could also be used to jazz up the patio.

The secluded chill out zone – Tall bamboos and grasses could be used to give height and seclusion. Flowering shrubs & perennials in cool shades of blue, ivory and lilac would give a calming colour palette to help purify the soul after a long stressful day.

The Country cottage garden - Romantic swathes of ‘chocolate box’ pretty perennials in pastel shades would provide the colour whilst traditional flowering shrubs would give structure.

alongside it’s neighbours to create a cohesive scheme. I feel that every garden should offer colour or interest throughout the whole year whether from flowers, berries, seed heads, stems or plant form so I ensure I include plants to fulfil this in each scheme. I find the creation of concept boards useful at this stage to show how colours and forms work together in the developing scheme.

With the palette of plants selected I move on to the hand drawn planting plan – a scale drawing to show planting density and position amongst the existing garden features with accompanying plant collages and a maintenance scheme where required.

With this complete it’s time to present to the client, source the plants and get to work on the garden.

Whether you long for a secluded hideaway or an entertaining space, a consultation and planting revamp can help you achieve the garden of your dreams. Give me a call to discuss your requirements or check out my website for more details. Tel. 07506 750250 www.belgrierson.co.uk At this time of year the shiny seed catalogues start to drop through the letterbox to my delight. Next month I’ll be looking at which packets of seeds to buy if you’d like to start your own cut flower garden in the spring.

Wishing you all a happy New Year!

Once I’ve chosen which groups of plants I’ll be using, I go on to consider the individual plants themselves looking at the size, shape and form of each plant and how it will work

Bel Grierson

Garden Designer & Plantswoman

“A little give and take” You give a little time to help care for people living near you and take home excellent pay as a thank you. Simple.

Bosworth Homecare Services Are seeking COMMUNITY CARE WORKERS IN LOUGHBOROUGH and surrounding area Give CERI a call on: 01509 271557 or 07824465774 NVQ PREFERRED BUT NOT ESSENTIAL - FULL TRAINING GIVEN

We are an equal opportunities employer & encourage young and mature applicants

Do you want to go shopping?

Do you need groceries, clothes or gifts Or just want a wander around the shops?

Would you like a trip to the local garden centre?

Have a coffee at a coffee shop?

Or do you just want some fresh air and company?

Local doctors and hospital appointments.

Accompanied appointments available.

I will pick you up, go shopping with you and take you back home. Any kind of shopping undertaken.

DBS, Public Liability Insured, Competitive Rates.

Call Karen on 07743 436416 to arrange a day and time to suit you.

10

LOCAL NEWS

LABOUR CANDIDATE

TOWN COUNCILLOR

M: 07894 229499 E: matthewocall@gmail.com

T: 01509 508872 E: contact@shepshedtowncouncil.org.uk

DR MATTHEW O’CALLAGHAN

T

he Examination in Public of Charnwood Borough Council’s Core Strategy has important consequences for Shepshed which is why I have been attending most of the sessions as an invited participant so I can speak on the issues affecting the town. The Core Strategy has two important aspects that impact on Shepshed; a proposed major development on the Garendon Estate and 500 houses to the West of Shepshed. These together with a proposal for another major development in the Thurmaston area are the three most controversial aspects of the Core Strategy. The EiP is a public meeting and it would be good if as many people as possible could turn up to view the proceedings at 9.30am on Tuesday 13th January for the Garendon SUE and at 1pm the following day on Wednesday 14th January - both meetings being held in the Victoria Rooms at Loughborough Town Hall.

In November the Council’s Plans Committee approved planning applications for 4,500 houses in North East Thurmaston and a further 593 homes to the West of Shepshed (Tickow Lane and Oakley Road). The 593 homes are on top of the 218 homes already approved for the West of Shepshed making a total of 811 homes in this area. (This means that in the past three years almost 1,300 houses have been approved for Shepshed with another 350 subject to appeal). In effect the Core Strategy proposals for both Thurmaston and Shepshed have been approved through the back door by the Plans Committee and so whatever is said at the Examination in Pubic is now almost irrelevant. During the Examination the Council confirmed that the application for 3,200 homes on the Garendon Estate will be considered by the Plans Committee on the 26th March next year. If the Committee decides on this before the

Inspector gives his judgement on the Core Strategy then the millions spent by the Council on preparing the Core Strategy will have been wasted and the whole exercise revealed to be an expensive and futile sham.

If the Council insists on hearing the application on March 26th then I reckon we should organise something, possibly including a march from Shepshed to the Council meeting, to show the strength of feeling on the issue.

You will have recently received through your letter box a leaflet with a ‘Plan’ for Shepshed. Unfortunately there is little unique for Shepshed about this Plan as it is almost identical to those being distributed in Barrow, Sileby and elsewhere. The only difference is a proposal for a direct bus service between Shepshed and the Airport.

Shepshed is different, you know that, I know that. But those producing these plans for these villages don’t seem to realise this. Shepshed has a unique set of issues such as traffic congestion, flooding, empty shops, lack of a bank, etc none of which are mentioned in the ‘Plan’. Any Plan which seeks to address the problems of Shepshed needs to consider all these aspects and I am working with local councillors to develop a long term strategy for Shepshed which will produce proposals for the regeneration of Shepshed without the need to dump thousands of unwanted houses in the area.

I regularly canvass in Shepshed and at some time over the past three years have knocked on doors in most streets in the town, but with so many thousand residents it would be impossible to visit everybody. If you would like a visit then please let me know. My contact details are 07894 229499 email matthewocall@gmail.com

Matthew O’callaghan

PACT MEETING The date of the next PACT (Police and Community Team) meeting will be held on Thursday 15th January, 2015 at 6.30 pm in Shepshed High School; all welcome to attend.

Are held on the second Saturday of each month at Shepshed Town Council offices in Charnwood Road from 11am until 12 noon.

Labour Councillors would love to meet you and help you deal with any issues that you may have. All Shepshed residents are welcome.

Shepshed Liberal Democrat Councillors hold an advice surgery at Shepshed Town Council, Charnwood Rd, Shepshed on the 1st Saturday of the month, 10am to 11am.

If you unable to come along please telephone 01509 277012 and we will do our best to help.

Appointments are not necessary. For more details call 01509 561458.

Glenys Timson

T

here is something that Shepshed residents ought to know about some of the services you should be receiving but aren’t. Firstly I want to talk about the drains and gutters in the area which are unable to do the job they were meant to do because they are blocked with weeds, leaves and grass cuttings. We all pay our Council Tax but don’t receive the service we should because of all the cuts implemented by Charnwood Borough Council and Leicestershire County Council. Instead of cutting the grass properly they have been using a strimmer – which scatters the grass all over the place leaving an unsightly mess! The weeds and leaves are left in the gutters and drains which could cause unnecessary flooding this winter. This situation will only get worse with the prospect of all the new housing earmarked for this area with Severn Trent and the developers unlikely to improve the antiquated drainage and sewage systems that we have at present – which bodes ill!

SPEEDING

This is still very much a problem in Shepshed – particularly so on Fairway Road, Anson Road, Tickow Lane and Hathern Road. When the Speedwatch Team is in operation however this situation does improve for a while.

Many complaints are received about speeding and motorists caught exceeding the limit are sent warning

letters – so MOTORISTS PLEASE SLOW DOWN. Speed limits are there for a reason – to avoid fatalities – not for show! Please be aware that carelessness costs lives and it only takes a speeding motorist a second to kill someone, especially so at the school gates. There are also an increasing number of motorists using mobile phones whilst driving – causing further deaths and serious injuries which could so easily have been avoided by stopping to answer or make a call.

The rash of housing planning applications due to be approved by Charnwood Borough Council will only make the traffic problems even worse with little prospect of any road improvements or infrastructure to support all these homes. It is therefore very likely that Shepshed will become gridlocked, as there is no core strategy in place because of Charnwood Borough Council failing to co-operate with the other councils involved which in turn led to the Government Inspector rejecting the core strategy plan!

Cllr Glenys Timson can be contacted via Shepshed Town Council or through Shepshed Branch Labour Party

Claire Poole

LOCAL NEWS

COUNTY COUNCILLOR

BOROUGH COUNCILLOR

T: 01509 502974 M: 07796 544817 E: christine_radford@hotmail.com

T: 01509 502974 M: 07796 544817 E: christine_radford@hotmail.com

CHRISTINE RADFORD

CHRISTINE RADFORD

A

s your County Councillor, I am always on hand to try and deal with any concerns you may have about services provided by Leicestershire County Council.

HEALTH PROFILES FOR CHARNWOOD

I recently attended a briefing in which the profile for Charnwood was outlined. The health of people in Charnwood varied compared with the England average. Deprivation is lower than average, however about 14.4% (4,000) children live in poverty. Life expectancy for women is higher that the England average.

Life expectancy is 9.4 years lower for men and 5.6 years lower for women in the most deprived areas of Charnwood than in the least deprived areas.

Child Health, in year 6, 19.2% (279) of children are classified as obese. The rate of alcohol-specific hospital stays among those under 18 was 18.5*, better than the average for England. This represents 6 stays per year. Levels of GCSE attainment are worse than the England average.

Adult health, in 2012, 21.7% of adults are classified as obese. The rate of alcohol related harm hospital stays was 568*, better than the average for England. This represents 901 stays per year. The rate of self-harm hospital stays was 113.4* better than the average for England. This represents 197stays per year. The rate of smoking related deaths was 250*, better than the average. This represents 220 deaths per year. Estimated levels of adult physical activity are better than the England average. Rates of hip fractures, sexually transmitted infections, people killed and seriously injured on roads and TB are better than average. The rate of excess

winter deaths is worse than average.

Rates of violent crime, long term unemployment and drug misuse are better than average.

Priorities include reducing obesity, improving physical activity, reducing the prevalence of smoking, and improving mental health and wellbeing. For more information see www.leics.gov.uk or www.charnwoodtogether.com. or www.healthprofiles.info. *rate per 100,000 population.

COUNTY COUNCIL LEADER

Had a meeting with local MP’s at Westminster and put pressure on them to urge the Government to plough more money into the Authority. Leicestershire is the lowest funded in the country and raises the lowest in Band D Council Tax. If LCC was funded in the same way as neighbouring Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, it would be £69m and £60m better off respectively. LCC would be £37m per year better off if it received the average level of funding.

BUSINESS FAYRE

If you run a business, large or small, from your own home or a shop, looking to employee take on apprentices, a business fayre is being held on 18th February at the High School, from 10am-1pm, to enable you to inform the residents of Shepshed what you have to offer. There is no charge for you to have a stand or for residents to attend. For more information telephone Simon on 219370 For help and advice on County matters, I can be contacted on 502974 or e mail christine_radford@hotmail.com

Christine Radford

Shepshed Conservatives Councillors hold an advice surgery at the Shepshed Town Council Offices, Charnwood Road, Shepshed on the last Saturday of the month. 10am to 11am.

Your Conservative, County, Borough and Town Councillors would love to meet you and help you deal with any issues that you may have. All Shepshed residents are welcome.

Appointments are not necessary for more details call 01509 502974

AKASH Quality Ingredients Fresh & Hygienically Cooked

Your satisfaction is our motto!

67, Charnwood Road, Shepshed, LE12 9NL TEL: 01509 650776 / 505465

I

n my role as Borough Councillor I am always on hand to try and resolve any concerns you may have about services provided by Charnwood Borough Council.

PLANNING

At the time of going to press I have not heard about the outcome in which Nicky Morgan MP asked the Secretary of State to call in the applications which were approved at the recent planning meeting on 17th November.

Bloors development off Iveshead Road - at a recent planning appeal, your Cllrs, Lennie, Tassell and Radford spoke against the developer asking to decrease the amount of affordable housing being provided on this site together with other requests. Your Councillors are concerned that after approval is given developers can request alterations to conditions but residents and Councillors do not have that right.

At another appeal on land to the rear of Westroyd on Tickow Lane the developer was appealing against the request from the police to increase the amount of money they would have from this development. (S106 monies) Your Councillors again spoke and raised their concerns on various

I am concerned about the removal of one of the beacon officers PC Neville being removed from Shepshed to work out of Beaumont Leys, this will leave Shepshed with one PC and 2 PCSO’s. If you are of the same opinion please e mail the police crime commissioner and police chief on simon.cole@leicestershire.pnn. police.uk or clive.loader@leics.pcc. pnn.gov.uk or police.commissioner@ leicestershire.pnn.police.uk expressing your concerns.

Shepshed Town Council discussed their concerns at a recent meeting and have written to the above together with Nicky Morgan MP, Joe Orson (Chair of the Police and Crime Commission) joe.orson@leics.gov.uk and Inspector Latham. Shepshed is growing; in fact we need more police officers not fewer.

Christine Radford

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

I

would like to wish you and your family and loved ones all the very best for a happy, healthy and successful 2015.

The weeks leading up to Christmas are always full of wonderful events and last year was no exception. I was a regular visitor to St Botolph’s as I enjoyed three different occasions there. The first was the Rotary Christmas Tree Festival and the Victorian Fair. Both were excellent and, I hope, financially successful too.

I loved St Botolph’s own tree with its vicars dating back almost 1000 years.

Many congratulations to David and Elaine Stevenson who organised a wonderful community nativity evening at St Botolph’s a few days later. This really was a true community event and it was a great pleasure to attend. The musicians, actors and readers were fabulous.

F DE X T ER All Aspect Of Work Carried Out. Fully Insured.

And thank you to the staff, governors and pupils at St Winefride’s for making me so welcome when I visited recently too. It was a pleasure to visit all the classes and find out about the school. And I enjoyed my question and answer session with the School Council.

Tel: 01509 504455 Mob: 07880851089

POLICE

NICKY MORGAN

I would like to congratulate too the Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan Society for a simply brilliant performance of Yeoman of the Guard at Hind Leys in November.

The show was extremely professional and it was good to see so many people there.

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

issues, but did support the developer about the money being requested for policing when the police have said they are removing one of our beacon officers. S106 monies should be spent in the area and not go into a general pot as is the request from the police.

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

Finally I was pleased to attend the Leicestershire & Rutland CTC carol service at the church. I don’t think I have attended a church service where so many people were wearing lycra nor where the vicar arrived by tandem – so it was very memorable!

INDIAN TAKE AWAY

Est 1992

11

I know that planning applications continue to be a major concern in Shepshed, particularly the Charnwood plans committee meeting in which 6 Shepshed applications were to be considered at the same time. I did contact the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government before the meeting to ask him to “call-in” the Shepshed applications. If he agreed this would mean that if they were approved by the committee he could then decide on them rather than the committee.

One application will be determined by the Secretary of State anyway because it has not been determined by the council in the time allowed, two were refused by the committee and, at the time of writing, I am waiting to hear his decision on the other three.

Finally, Cllr Christine Radford and I are campaigning for a direct bus to travel between Shepshed and East Midlands Airport. Having spoken to both the Airport and one of the bus companies we now need to show the local demand for such a service. We think that a service would support not only those travelling to or from the airport but also those who would like to work there or nearby.

Thank you to everyone who has already signed our petition. Petition forms are available in the shops in the town centre or you can contact Christine or me or you can sign online at www.nickymorgan.org/campaigns/ shepshed-bus-petition

Nicky Morgan

12

KIDS ZONE

Christie Cats Winter Party It was a cold and wintery day and the ground was sparkling with fresh frost and ice. Christie Cat was very busy preparing for a party she was having that very night.

“I can’t believe I’ve still got so much to do, I need to whizz to the butchers to pick up the meat for our meal, then run to the grocers for the vegetables and I still need to tidy the living room and set the table, I’ll never get it all done before everyone arrives later.’ Said Christie to herself, very worried that she wouldn’t get everything done in time.

Christie decided that she would tidy the house later and better run out to get the food. Just then someone knocked at the door.

“Hello Christie” Said Daniel who had just nipped round to check what time the party was going to start.

“Oh Daniel, I’m in such a rush, I’ve so much to do before tonight.”

“Is there anything I can do to help Christie?” offered Daniel.

“No thank you Daniel, just come over at 6pm tonight and enjoy yourself.

I’m just off out to collect the meat from the butchers and the vegetables from the grocers.” Said Christie sounding very flustered.

“Ok said Daniel, but be careful going to the shops, don’t take the shortcut through the lane as it’s very, very, icy.” Warned Daniel.

So Daniel left and Christie got ready to go out. Time was ticking on and she was so worried she wouldn’t be ready in time.

So very foolishly she ignored what Daniel had said and decided to take the shortcut through the lane so she could save a bit of time.

Christie, rushed off and soon started slipping and sliding all over the place.

“Oh this is very slippery and icy, maybe I should have listened to Daniel” Just then BUMP Christie’s paws slipped from under her and she fell backwards bumping her head on the ground very hard.

A little while later Christie opened her eyes and saw all her friends stood around her. She was lying in a hospital bed with a big bandage round her head.

“What happened” Said Christie sounding confused.

“You fell over and bumped your head” Said Bethany.

The Midas Touch

The dawn of day comes very calm and still, While autumn mist joins battle with the sun.

A blackbird’s song gives way to pinking shrill, Sword shafts of sunlight flash and day’s begun.

The traffic sounds so clear yet far away, And swallows twitter queuing on the wire.

A black cat stalks her hidden silent prey, Red robin sings audition to the choir.

The dew has dropped her diamonds on the grass, The cobwebs wear a mantle of fine lace Which fairies scoop to make a looking glass, And nodding seedpods smile to see their face.

The brooklet chatters idly on its way, A song-thrush makes key changes to its sonnet.

The squirrel redesigns her treetop drey, Dame Poppy dons her Phrygian bonnet.

And then it comes – a shiver or a sigh, The whisper of a winter’s tale foretold.

The birch lifts silver purse strings to the sky, And down cascades a harbinger of gold.

By Elaine Stevenson

Bake With Fee BOOST BARS

“Because you took the shortcut even though I’d told you not to” Said Daniel crossly.

“Oh no” said Christie, “What about the party?”

“You’re staying right where you are for a few days” Said Doctor Brown who had been listening to the whole conversation. “If you hadn’t been in such a rush, this wouldn’t have happened and you could have had your party. You should listen to your friends next time!”

So Christie stayed in the hospital for a few days to recover and then Daniel and Bethany took her home and helped her tidy and cook so they could have a quiet party after all.

Christie promised she’d listen to her friends next time.

• PC, Laptop and Tablet Repairs.

• Networking, Wireless and Security.

• XP/Vista upgrade to Windows 7 or 8.

• Troubleshooting and Maintenance.

• Tuition for beginners a speciality.

Call Darren today on 01530 243808 or 07813 973 659 for an appointment

• Printers, Routers and Whole Systems set up correctly.

• Bespoke systems built to your spec and budget.

• No call out charge, no fix no fee!

INGREDIENTS 160g dried fruit chopped into small pieces 135g unsalted nuts loosely chopped 210g rolled oats, lightly toasted 50g sunflower seeds 90g honey 100g smooth peanut butter

METHOD Place toasted oats, chopped nuts, chopped dried fruit and the seeds in a mixing bowl and set aside.

Warm the honey and peanut butter in a small saucepan over low heat.

Stir and pour over the dry mixture.

Combine the ingredients thoroughly ensuring an even distribution and coverage so as the bars will hold their shape.

Once thoroughly mixed, transfer the mixture to an oven tray lined with cling film. Press the mixture firmly into the tray.

Cover and pop in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to harden. Once removed, chop into bars. Store in the refrigerator.

You can use any nuts, seeds and dried fruit that you wish. Add a few choc chips if you want to! Great snacks packed with goodness to give you and the kids a boost on the go!

TAKE 5

WORD SUDOKU

WORD SEARCH

*Available in colours Black & White in either Plastic or Rubber cases for iPhone 4/4s - iPhone 5/5s - whilst stocks last.

*Available in colours Black & White in either Plastic or Rubber cases for iPhone 4/4s - iPhone 5/5s - whilst stocks last.

A PERSONALISED PHONE

O

R

U

F

D

U W N

E

F O

D

N F

E

F

U

O W

W

L

W U Black

L White

Plastic

A

U

A

U

G

U

S

T

N

I

Q

J

J

O

C

T

O

B

E

R

E

U

Wonderful

U

U

R

I

M

E

S

A

N

U

F

N

L

B

O

A

M

O

T

O

A

E

E

Y

O

M

R

V

E

R

V

P

B

A

A

D

E

C

E

M

B

E

R

R

G

L

E

T

H

N

I

Y

M

I

U

J

A

N

U

A

R

Y

A

B

L

A

E

N

T

M

A

Y

W O

E

M

R

S

E

P

T

E

M

B

R

K

Y

Fill in each 3x3 block using the images so

any block, horizontal

E R

F

Rubber

N

A PERSONALISED PHONE COVER*

HOW TO PLAY

there are no repeats in

D

F

COVER*

or vertical line.

Please tick the boxes below.

iPhone 4/4s

iPhone 5/5s

E

MONTHS OF THE YEAR January February March April May June July August September October November December

NAME:

NAME: AGE:

ADDRESS:

ADDRESS:

TEL:

TEL:

EMAIL: SEND ENTRY TO: Open Box Promotions Ltd, 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, LE9 2HQ - Closing date 28th January 2015

13

EMAIL: SEND ENTRY TO: Open Box Promotions Ltd, 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, LE9 2HQ - Closing date 28th January 2015

14

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Love Your Feet!

Verruca

Submitted by Sally Prytherch Hinds Feet Foot Care T: 07806786616 E: hindsfeetfootcare@gmail.com W: www.hindsfeetfootcare.co.uk Verrucas are warts that occur on the feet and are caused by a type of the human papilloma virus. They usually cause hard skin to develop around them which can become painful and are often characterised by small black dots (blood vessels) within the hardened area.

Many people have experienced verruca as children but they can and do occur in adults. Children have underdeveloped immune systems and are more susceptible to infection.

Adults with weakened immune systems will be more prone to verruca and it may be worth visiting the GP to rule out any underlying cause if they are persistent.

Verruca are notoriously difficult to treat and unless they are causing discomfort many professionals advocate that they are left alone as eventually they often disappear spontaneously. There are various ‘over the counter’ treatments that can be purchased which tend to burn and harden the verrucca which can then be filed off. Care must be taken with filing as this can spread the virus to other parts of the foot.

SHEPSHED COMMUNITY NATIVITY As a result of the Shepshed Community Nativity held on 5th December in St Botolph’s Church, £825 has been raised for the Shepshed Food Bank.

Pictured at the cheque presentation are (left to right) Glennis Wilcox, RoseMarie Manning, Elaine Stevenson, David Stevenson, Sally Bardsley and Esther Twigger.

The virus mimics the body’s DNA structure and professionals will often par the verruca down with a scalpel and aim to make it bleed very slightly to encourage the body to recognise the virus in the broken cells as an invader that needs to be dealt with! In difficult cases a dermatology referral may be appropriate. People with diabetes or circulation problems should consult the GP before using over the counter products due to the increased vulnerability of the skin for potential damage.

The Food Bank has been operating independently since March 2014 from a unit kindly made available by Hind Leys College. Situated near the Youth Centre and staffed by volunteers, the unit is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays for one hour from 1.45pm.

On average it currently serves around 50 families per week.

Many people are happy to live with their verrucas, but if pain, distress or embarrassment are a problem there are various treatment options that can be discussed with a GP, Pharmacist or other appropriate professional.

The organisers gratefully acknowledge the support of the local community without which their vital work would not be possible. Glennis explains that, in the current economic climate, just a few weeks without work can land many people in serious difficulties.

www.nhs.uk - www.patient.co.uk - www.foot.com/site/professional/foot-facts

JOHNS CARPETS AND FLOORING

Swimming baths are known as places where it is possible to catch verruca , but this usually if the skin is softened by moisture and damaged, often microscopically, by the hard surfaces. It is advisable to wear protective footwear in pool areas to prevent spreading or picking up infection. The virus is unlikely to be transmitted in the water due to high chlorine levels. It can also be spread from the feet to other parts of the body such as fingers or lips, so awareness and care is needed.

USEFUL WEBSITES:

Submitted by Bonita Irish FBDO Hallcroft Opticians T: 01509 650666 E: info@hallcroftopticians.co.uk W: www.hallcroftopticians.co.uk

DRIVING AT NIGHT, HOW WELL DO YOU SEE? As the long winter nights are drawing in I would like to highlight some simple steps you can take to ensure that you see as well as possible while driving your car.

Millions of British drivers admit that they find it harder to see clearly when driving after dark and it’s a fact that more road accidents occur at night than during the day.

Common night driving problems include blurred vision, difficulty focusing and dazzle or flare. Low light levels at night cause the pupil of the eye to become larger and this can accentuate any focusing errors – no matter how minor – causing blur.

At night it’s therefore more important than ever to wear a pair of spectacles or contact lenses with an up-to-date prescription. For many people haloes and reflections around lights and headlamps can make their eyes feel uncomfortable while driving. The most

common cause is a dirty windscreen (often on the inside as well as the outside) or worn-out wiper blades, although scratched or dirty spectacles can be just as bad.

Also, reflections from the surface of spectacle lenses can sometimes cause multiple images of lights at night. If you notice these, effective antireflection lens coatings are available.

Older people often find night driving particularly stressful. With increasing age, the lens of the eye tends to yellow, reducing vision clarity, but major discomfort from glare can be caused by cataracts – a clouding of the eye lens which requires specialist treatment.

If you are affected by oncoming headlights, try concentrating on the nearside kerb as you drive – but remember to slow down!

• Never wear dark or tinted lenses for night driving • Keep a clear view on the road at night • Make sure you have regular eye examinations • Always wear a pair of glasses or contact lenses with an up-to-date prescription • Keep a spare pair of glasses in the car if possible • Don’t use tinted lenses, but have them anti-reflection coated if necessary • Keep your windscreen clean inside and out and check your wiper blades for wear • Check your car’s lights are working

Further information can be obtained on 07594-639668 or from the Food Bank’s Facebook page. A website is also currently under construction.

Domestic and Commercial Over 20yrs Established Personal and Friendly Service Samples brought to your own home, Carpets, Vinyls & Laminates All supplied and fitted.

TEL: 01509 558219 MOB: 07770 554460

HALLCROFT OPTICIANS

PROVIDING A CLEAR VIEW 30 HALLCROFT, SHEPSHED, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE12 9AN

FREE

Upgrade On Anti Reflection Lenses Throughout January 2015

TEL: 01509 650 666

SHEPSHED ASSOCIATION FOR THE PROSECUTION OF FELONS AGM AND DINNER Friday 27th February 2015 at Shepshed High School, Forest Street, Shepshed.

What sort of association is this you might well ask? A group of Shepshedians who wish to support our police in all the various duties they perform, on our behalf, to keep us safe.

There are many like Associations in the country and visiting the website of the `Association for the Prosecution of Felons` will enlighten everyone as to our historical past.

We are delighted to announce that our Guest of Honour will be The Rt. Hon. Nicky Morgan MP, Secretary of State for Education.

Many will be aware of Nicky`s interest in local issues and is regularly seen in the Shepshed and Charnwood area, speaking and consulting with residents with regard to the many issues that concern us.

Nicky will be proposing the toast to the Association.

The toast to the Leicestershire Force will be proposed by Mr. Ian Briggs. Ian will be known to many as the retired British Rail computer genius and Area President of the North & East Midlands Association of Speakers Clubs.

The response to The Toast will be made

by Superintendent Martyn Ball. Martyn serves in the Force as lead on AntiSocial Behaviour issues.

Dinner will be provided again by Carillon Rooms Catering. A bar will be available during the course of the evening.

Dress Code; Lounge suits. Association Members will receive their notification of the meeting in due course.

New members will be most welcome.

Anyone interested in joining the Association and attending this event, who is not a member is requested, in the first instance, to contact the Hon. Secretary, John Tolley. Contact numbers; 01509 502488, mobile 07773 524758 or email, john@tolleyweb.co.uk

AERIALS

THE EASTER INSTALLATION COMPANY (Established 1949)

New Installations On Digital Aerials Installation Repairs Shepshed 504 379 Loughborough 214000 Mobile 07767 600166 Dave Cook 102 Conway Drive, Shepshed

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

15

The Easy Way to the perfect Home Office or Fitted Bedroom WINTER DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

One call to Swift Fitted Furniture and we’ll arrange a no obligation estimate to make the most of your bedroom or home office space.

Friendly service and professional fitting - for less than you’d think.

Call Paul

Tel: 0116 246 0686 to find out more today

Long and Short Distance Airport Runs 8 Seater Minibuses Available Contract Work School Runs Deliveries 24 hours Executive vehicle E: aaa.taxis@ntlbusiness.com W: www.aaataxis.tk

PRICE LIST AIRPORT

EAST MIDLANDS COVENTRY BIRMINGHAM HEATHROW GATWICK LUTON STANSTEAD DONCASTER LEEDS BRADFORD MANCHESTER

OUT OF TOWN

ALTON TOWERS DERBY/LEICS/NOTTS ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH NOTTM DOGS

CAR

MINIBUS

£100.00 £55.00 £16.00 £55.00

£150.00 return £80.00 return £23.00 from £80.00 from

£15.00 £17.00 £45.00 £45.00 £120.00 £140.00 £95.00 £120.00 £80.00 £110.00 £110.00

£22.00 Shepshed £24.00 Lough £65.00 £65.00 £170.00 £180.00 £125.00 £170.00 £110.00 £160.00 £160.00

All prices based from Shepshed. Airport prices stay the same any day, any time including bank holidays

Tel: 01509 504488 Shepshed based company

16

01509 590 039

ALL GAS REPAIRS UNDERTAKEN LANDLORD GAS SAFETY INSPECTION (CP12) ANNUAL GAS APPLIANCE SERVICE L.P.G. QUALIFIED FREE QUOTATIONS ON BOILER AND CENTRAL HEATING REPLACEMENTS

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE EX-BRITISH GAS FULLY QUALIFIED COVERING THE EAST MIDLANDS

PACKAGE 1

Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 100 square feet of loft flooring One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

ONLY £585 PACKAGE 2

Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 200 square feet of loft flooring One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

ONLY £765

PACKAGE 3

Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 300 square feet of loft flooring One Fakro Roof Window 550mm x 780mm One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

ONLY £1295

ECONOMY PACKAGE

UPVC hinge down loft hatch Two section aluminium loft ladder 100 square feet of loft flooring pendant light fitting and switch

EXTRA BOARDING

Additional boarding to any package £30 per 16 square foot

ONLY £435

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/loftstoragesolutions

LOFT STORAGE

SOLUTIONS Balancing on a stepladder, clambering over loft joists with a torch in one hand and a box in another is not only awkward but potentially dangerous.

Boarding, lighting and a ladder not only gives you the opportunity to unclutter your living space, but also creates a cleaner and more useful environment.

Solve your storage needs and start utilising the largest space in your home from only £435

LUXURY STORAGE ROOMS

Our luxury storage rooms are surprisingly affordable at just a fraction of the cost of a standard loft conversion. Our luxury storage rooms can include the strengthening of loft joists, flooring, lighting, roof insulation, stud walls, roof windows and either plasterboard or skim finish.

PRICES FROM £2995

 01530 587327

07515 526959 / 079615 76020 www.LeicesterLoftStorage.com