March 2015 - Shepshed Community Eye

SHEPSHED

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COMMUNITY EYE

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

IN THE GARDEN WITH BEL

ISSUE 48 - MARCH 2015

HOT CROSS BUNS Make The Perfect Bun

NEW PLAY EQUIPMENT EARMARKED

Growing Tasty Herbs

SHEPSHED WARTIME EVENT 2015

For Oakley Road Playing Fields Thanks To £10,000 From The Big Lottery Fund

Sunday 17th May

UPDATE FROM GURU SINGH

Total Raised So Far is £847.00 Find Out How You Can Help

ROTARY CLUB OF SHEPSHED

New Member Joins The Club

HALF A CENTURY OF G&S IN SHEPSHED Shepshed Based Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan Society Celebrate 50th Anniversary

Tropical, Pond, Marine, Coldwater Fish Dry & Frozen Goods • Lighting Tanks and Cabinets • Filters & Pumps Liners & Much Much More...

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT & UNDER CONSTANT VETERINARY SUPERVISION

Mon - Sat 10:00am - 5:30pm Sun 10.00am - 4:00pm 2A North Avenue Coalville, LE67 3QX 01530814449 coalvilleaquatics@yahoo.co.uk www.coalvilleaquatics.com

COALVILLEAQUATICS

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LOCAL ADVERTISERS

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WELCOME

WELCOME TO YOUR FEBRUARY COMMUNITY EYE MAGAZINE Hopefully the snow is behind us now and my poor garden has a chance to recover!

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY:

Brian Walbey © ____________________________________

LIKE & FOLLOW US

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

EDITOR

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

The snowdrops are up and flowering and hopefully the crocuses will follow soon. If you have some beautiful spring flowers in your garden do send me a photograph and we’ll try and print it in our next issue, it might even make the cover picture.

If like me, you’re itching to get out and start making the garden look tidy again Bel’s article is sure to inspire. This

month she’s looking at herbs, it’s just a shame we don’t print our magazines with a scratch and sniff option!

I hope you continue to enjoy our magazines and please do keep sending us your community articles.

If you’d like to discuss joining our large group of advertisers and seeing how magazine advertising can boost your customer base, please contact Dawn and she’ll be happy to discuss this with you further.

NEW PLAY EQUIPMENT EARMARKED FOR OAKLEY ROAD PLAYING FIELDS

SALES TEAM

MILLS-STONE FENCING & PAVING

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 March 2015 DELIVERY DATE: 4th April 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

Based in Shepshed Leicestershire Established 1987

This includes, an aerial runway and sturdy flying saucer.

Shepshed Town Council is pleased to announce that it has received a £10,000 from the BIG LOTTERY FUND (Awards for all England).

We cover an entire range of hard landscaping and paving •Driveways, Slabbing and Patios •Brickwork, Fencing and Tree Work

Provided by Streetscape Products & Services Ltd Doug Belfield - 07714 170854 doug@streetscape-products.co.uk www.streetscape-products.co.uk www.outdoorfitnessproducts.co.uk

For a Free Quote contact Patrick on T: 01509 554690 - M: 07761235801 E: millsstonepaving@hotmail.com W: www.millsstonepaving.co.uk

SHEPSHED SWIMMING CLUB THE FAMILY FRIENDLY CLUB

We are a local friendly club competing in the Leicestershire swimming league and we are looking for young swimmers to build our club for the future.

Swimming is a great way to improve your fitness and with our qualified teaching and coaching staff the world is your oyster.

AERIALS

THE EASTER INSTALLATION COMPANY (Established 1949)

New Installations On Digital Aerials Installation Repairs

So if you have a budding Olympic swimmer who would like to improve their skills and swim in a competitive team then we would love to hear from you. To arrange a trial swim session or to arrange coming down and meeting us for the first time please contact us at: head-coach@shepshedswimmingclub.com Alternatively check out our website: www.shepshedswimmingclub.com

GET A COMPLIMENTARY SECOND PAIR OF at

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Shepshed 504 379 Loughborough 214000 Mobile 07767 600166 Dave Cook 102 Conway Drive, Shepshed

Find out more www.essilor.co.uk

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LOCAL NEWS

CHARNWOOD ROAD BAPTIST CHURCH Sundays in March 10.45am Morning Worship & Sunday Club 6.00pm Evening Praise & Worship Regular Meetings Tuesday - Bible Study house groups Wednesday - Ladies Fellowship Friday - Girls Brigade All enquiries to church office on 01509 503382

ST. BOTOLPH’S CHURCH, SHEPSHED AND ST. JAMES’ CHURCH, OAKS IN CHARNWOOD March 2015 Every Friday (Term time only) 10-11.30 am Cheeky Chops SBCH Every Friday Evening Healing Group 7.30pm 36 Bridge Street, Shepshed.

Tel: 01509 506828.

All Welcome St Botolph’s Mothers Union Wednesday 11th March 11.15am Lent Meditation Rev’d Pam Harvey Contact: RoseMarie Manning 01509 563001 SBCH St James’ Mothers Union Monday 16th March 2.30pm Speaker: Pam Bird – Quiet Reflections with Pictures.

01509 506154 OSH Tuesday Group 17th March 8pm Speaker: Laurie Tillen The Lost Lancaster Contact: Wendy Parsons 01509 829632 SBCH Fold – Group for people with learning difficulties Friday 20th March Contact: Kathy Cole 01509 506119 SBCH Other groups meeting within the 2 Parishes are as follows: Oaks Seniors – Every other Tuesday in Oaks Storer Hall. For further details contact Sheila Bass 01509 502813 Meeting Point – Every other Tuesday in Oaks Meeting Room.

For further details contact Lesley Bates 01509 502853. Both these events are attached to St James’ Church.

SBCH - St. Botolph’s Church Hall, SBC - St Botolph’s Church, OSH - Oaks Storer Hall.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY WITH ESNA AND HAIRSPRAY

SHEPSHED WAR TIME EVENT 2015

The sweet sound of a musical gem is at Loughborough Town Hall this spring as the awardwinning ESNA Players present Hairspray.

Back by popular demand the Shepshed War Time Event 2015 will be held at Oakley Grange Organic Farm, off Shepshed Road, Hathern on Sunday 17th May 10:00 - 16:00. Allied and Axis troops will be taking us back in time with vehicle and military displays together with the Home Guard , ARP and NAFFI. Admission is £3 for adults and £2 for children, visitors are welcome in period costume.

This award-laden musical was a massive hit on Broadway and the West End and ESNA are proud to be the first group to present the show in Loughborough.

A winner of eight Tony Awards and three Olivier Awards, Hairspray is set in the 1960s and tells the story of plump teenager Tracy Turnblad's dream to dance on local TV dance programme, The Corny Collins Show.

When she wins a role on the show, she becomes a celebrity overnight, and meets a colourful array of characters. She then launches a campaign to integrate the show.

Hairspray has a sweet coating to a sharper inner core that deals with social injustice, racial issues and social prejudices and society's treatment of minority groups at the time.

What Hairspray is so popular for is its magical score full of 1960s-style rhythm and blues and dance with songs like Good Morning Baltimore, The Nicest Kids in Town, Welcome To the 60s, Big, Blonde and Beautiful, Without Love and You Can't Stop The Beat.

ESNA's production stars Emily Canham as Tracy with Liam Patrick as Link, Larkin Chris Wilson as Corney Collins, Robert. Bramley-

SHEPSHED HISTORY SOCIETY Tuesday 10th February saw Shepshed History Society having an extremely enjoyable and fascinating talk given by Jo Carter on the life and times of the legendary Laura Ashley. From her very humble beginnings Laura began her business of designing her wares literally on the kitchen table. A primitive printing press was constructed by her husband and so their venture began.

Numerous pit falls awaited them as Laura continued to battle her way to the top of the business designing fabrics and dresses that became world famous at the same time as being mother to four small children. The first rung in her ladder of success was when she went to Rome and saw them filming Roman Holiday

Buhler as Edna Turnblad, Neil Ledward as Wilbur Turnblad, Rowan Beaumont as Penny Pingleton, Nicole Ray as Amber von Tussle, Nicola Scoggins as Velma von Tussle and Monique Henry as Motormouth Mabel.

ESNA present Hairspray at Loughborough Town Hall from April 14-18 at 7.30pm each night, plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets priced £14 for Tuesday evening and the Saturday matinee and £15 for all other performances, are available from the Town Hall Box Office on 01509 231914 or box.office@charnwood.gov.uk or through the website at www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk Find out more about ESNA by visiting their website at www.esna.co going to their Facebook page or following them on Twitter at @ESNAPlayers The ESNA players - award winning amateur musical theatre group in Loughborough, Leicestershire. esna.co starring Audrey Hepburn who was wearing a red and white spotted neck scarf that she went home and immediately copied in her kitchen. It was bought from her in the hundreds by all the famous London stores. And so the adventures began as her business expanded over the years.

It was a totally absorbing story that Jo had to relate to the society which sadly ended when tragically Laura accidentally tumbled down the stairs of her country home in the middle of the night and lay there all night before she was found too late to save her life. It was a spell binding tale that was enjoyed by all the society members.

The next meeting to be held on March 10th will be given by Mrs Heidi Tivey, the subject being 'Growing Up Under Hitler'.

New members are always welcome.

Oakley Grange have kindly offered to host the event with its' excellent facilities including a cafe, picnic area and large undercover barn. On the Saturday evening there will be a 40's dance with Dickie Lines ENSA Entertainer (16th May) , 20:00 until late. Tickets will be £5 each and there will a licensed bar and be refreshments will available.

Ted Edwards, the Event Organiser said “This is now our sixth year and it has proved to be a good family event.”

We hope to make a donation to the air ambulance.

Contacts: Ted Edwards - 0788 520 6338 Mike Batten - 01509 230089 Oakley Grange Organic Farm 0790 326 9395

SHEPSHED RAMBLERS Shepshed Ramblers will depart Shepshed Market Place at 09.30 on 15 March 2015 for its circular Bushing around Thurnby walk. If anyone is interested in walking, please contact Margaret on 01509 600510 or Bernie on 01509 828328 for further details. Please carry a coffee break and lunch.

SHEPSHED FOOD BANK Shepshed Food Bank will be moving into the Glenmore Centre on Thorpe Road (date, yet to be confirmed). Shepshed Town Council is pleased to be able to accommodate/re-house the Food Bank in the former changing rooms in the Glenmore Centre on Thorpe Road. Shepshed Town Council owns the building which is managed by the Glenmore Centre Management Association. For further information about the Food Bank please contact Mrs Glennis Wilcox on 07594639668

LOCAL NEWS

UPDATE FROM GURU SINGH Many thanks to Shepshed Eye for giving me the opportunity to publicise my forthcoming challenge when I will be cycling 350 miles in 4 days from Geneva to Milan and in the process raise vital funds for cancer research in Leicester Hospitals.

The response to your article has been overwhelming and I am very grateful to people who have supported and encouraged me by following my blog www. gsingh1015.wordpress.com and to those who have already donated both online and offline. Even more importantly the message about health and exercise, latest research in cancer and cancer prevention is liked by many readers of the blog.

My training is on track despite two severe colds. This weekend I have a 70 mile ride in Sandown Park, London and next weekend is the first of the monthly group bonding rides involving all the 60 riders and 12 support cyclists. When I set out on this challenge I wanted to lose a total of 2 stone and at least a stone by the first group ride. So

HOT CROSS BUNS INGREDIENTS

far I have lost 10 pounds and feel that I am not too far off my goal.

Some people have enquired of other ways of donating. I have sponsorship forms at Charnwood Pharmacy, Ryatt's Optometrists and The Black Swan. I hope to have them in more places by next week.

Here are the all important links www.hfcr.org for more information on Hope Against Cancer and www. virginmoneygiving.com/team/ Hopesitalianjob for online giving.

TOTAL RAISED SO FAR

847.00

£

Running total for both online & offline donations, excluding gift aid.

SHEPSHED & DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB

• 450g/1lb strong white bread flour • 7g/½ oz dried yeast • 2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp allspice • 100g/3½oz raisins • 1 orange, zest only • 100g/3½oz sugar • 50g/1¾oz butter • 250ml/9fl oz milk • 1 free-range egg

FOR THE CROSS • 75g/2¾oz flour • 4 tsp caster sugar • 4 tbsp water

FOR THE GLAZE

• 1 tbsp smooth marmalade • 1 tbsp soft dark brown sugar • 2 tbsp water • butter, to serve

METHOD

Preparation method For the dough, sift the flour, dried yeast, cinnamon, allspice, raisins, orange zest and sugar into a bowl.

Warm the butter and milk together in a saucepan until the butter has melted.

Remove from the heat and whisk in the egg.

Brian Walbey - Backing up During recent weeks the members of Shepshed and District Camera Club have been pictorially transferred to both Cuba and Italy during two evenings of excellent travel photography, and held one of their popular annual competitions.

Nottinghamshire based photographer Stuart Crump, ARPS,DPAGB.projected a number of his general and award winning images that he took during a visit to Cuba and gave a good description of the country and life there for the population under the Castro regime. He followed this up with a demonstrations of how he used photographic software to achieve some of the results seen on the screen.

A few weeks later Club Chair Sue Hutton, LRPS.entertained the members with a wide ranging photographic tour of Venice, Sienna, Rome, Florence and Pisa, concentrating particularly on the magnificent architecture both

Alan Harris - Morning Goods

outside and inside many of the most well known buildings, and the art and decoration associated with them.

Fourteen Club members took part in the annual “4 new images” competition mid-month where each entrant puts forward 4 digital images that have not been in Club competitions before and the Judge, Nigel Spencer, was given the task of commenting on each of the 56 images and awarding them marks out of 20.

With a total score of 74.5 Ian Bradford took first place with Sue Hutton (74) in second place and Nigel Harris (71) took third place.

The details of the selected images for the annual Midland Counties Photographic Federation Exhibition have also been received and two Club members, Alan Harris and Brian Walbey were successful in having entries accepted, Alan with “Morning Goods” and Brian with “Backing Up”. The exhibition is at Oldbury during March.

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Fold the milk mixture into the flour mixture to form a dough.

Tip the dough onto a floured work surface and knead for 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Divide the dough into 1 or 2 pieces, shape into balls and cover with a damp cloth. Set aside for 12 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4.

Meanwhile, for the cross, mix the flour, sugar and water together in a bowl and spoon into a piping bag with a plain nozzle.

Place the buns onto a baking tray and pipe a cross onto each bun. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Meanwhile, for the glaze, heat the glaze ingredients in a pan until the sugar has melted and the mixture is smooth.

Remove the buns from the oven and immediately brush each bun with the glaze. Set aside to cool. Serve the hot cross buns warm with butter.

NEW MEMBER JOINS ROTARY CLUB Another new member is welcomed by the Rotary Club of Shepshed Charnwood as it continues to expand. Graham Wise (centre) originates from London, has a flair for Latin American dancing and, believe it or not, an interest in Egyptology!

He is actively involved in voluntary work in Kegworth and feels that the ethos of Rotary matches his own outlook. He is looking forward to becoming a valuable team member.

Club President David Hayes (right) said “We’re delighted to welcome Graham, not just to our Club but also as a member of one of the largest service organisations in the world today. Graham will take an active part and the rest of the club look forward to him joining in all that we do."

He went on to thank Tony Peters (left) for introducing Graham to the club.

The club would welcome enquiries from anyone wishing to get involved in Rotary or who would simply like a little bit more information about who we are and what we do. Please visit the RIBI website at www.ribi.org

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LOCAL ADVERTISERS

Moors Farm flyer 02-15:Layout 1

26/02/2015

08:52

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Children Learning to Succeed...

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We can help your child with: 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

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FREE REGISTRATION THROUGHOUT MARCH 2015

LOCAL ADVERTISERS

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Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

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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.’

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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.

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

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WINDOW DRESSING

Fabulous Fabrics Recently I have been to some of the many fabric shows and as usual have fallen in love with so many collections.

Two of the stand out ranges available at the moment come from Clarke & Clarke With fabric names such as Woburn, Hatfield and Chatsworth, the inspiration for this collection is the classical English country house. A mix of embroidered patterns on linen, woven checks and jaquards are available in the softest tones of duck egg, heather, mustard and taupe. I particularly like harewood, with its dove design.

All fabrics are suitable to mix and match, with complimentary plain linens.

Looking at the vibrant colours and bold prints of this collection it is not surprising that the inspiration came from the spice markets of Zanzibar.

With an exciting colour palette of aqua, indigo and fuschia among others, this collection will definitely bring a strong design and colour statement to your soft furnishings.

From now until the end of March we are offering 20% off all Clarke & Clarke fabrics.

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

Contact Caroline Thompson Telephone 01509 821016 Mobile 0795 1619046

www.acaciacurtains.com

Mobile Foot Health Practitioner A.A Foot Recovery Do you suffer from...

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R J Brearley Construction CARPENTRY & JOINERY SPECIALIST GENERAL BUILDING, PLASTERING & TILING 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

GARDENING

GROWING TASTY HERBS

S

pring is just around the corner & already I’ve spotted new shoots appearing in the garden and the bulbs are poking their noses through the earth. It’s so satisfying to see plants I’ve raised emerging from their winter slumber and it’s even better when I know that I’ll get to eat them soon too!

Chives

Mint

Sage

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I’ve a little herb bed near the kitchen door which slopes slightly and faces south so that it basks in the summer sun. I love cooking and so my herb patch is important to me, I can pop out and pick something to flavour a casserole, curry or sauce throughout the whole year. The softer & more tender herbs like Basil and coriander will give me fresh tasty leaves in the summer months.

Many of the culinary herbs we use come from warmer climes so they need some loving care if they are going to survive and thrive in our cooler and wetter environment.

Most like a sunny spot with free draining soil. I added some horticultural grit to my clay-loam soil when I first prepared the patch to help rain water drain through and avoid root rot.

Growing in terracotta pots can also be very successful as they naturally drain well and can be filled with suitable free draining compost too.

SHRUBBY HERBS e.g. Bay, Rosemary, Sage & Thyme. These I grow in containers so I can control their growth and give them really free draining soil. I tend to grow a Rosemary & Sage plant for about 3-4 years until it gets really woody then I start again with a fresh plant.

These bushy herbs are perfect for slow cooked dishes like stews and roasted vegetables.

HARDY PERENNIAL HERBS Chives, Mint, Tarragon & Oregano for example will happily reappear each spring and provide handfuls of tasty soft leaves through until autumn. These are the herbs I use to flavour a dish towards the end of cooking to give a fresh zingy lift to the dish. They grow happily in my heavy soil, with a trim back & a handful of fertiliser in spring.

Every few years a lift and split them during spring, dividing them with a spade & replanting the fresh vigorous pieces.

HARDY ANNUAL HERBS Coriander, Rocket & Parsley are sown from seed in pots during the spring (or bought ready grown) & can then be planted in the herb bed alongside the perennials as long as they have a drink occasionally in the hottest summer months. Although Parsley is actually a perennial I tend to start with new plants each year as they

are prone to going to seed in their second year. With their tender leaves these annual herbs are best raw or added just before serving to preserve their flavour.

TENDER HERBS Basil is wonderful with its hit of aniseed and is delicious with pasta or salad. I grow this from seed alongside my tomatoes in the green house so that it benefits from the heat of the greenhouse.

Lemon verbena is a slightly tender shrubby herb which smells amazing. The intense lemony fragrance is wonderful in a summer punch with strawberries.

I grow it in a terracotta pot on the patio and then move the pot in to the greenhouse for the winter.

With all that said, I’m off to split my chives, trim back the mint and sow some parsley and basil.

Next month I’ll be looking at Alpine plants which are great for containers & gravel gardens.

They’ll soon be gracing the garden centres and nurseries with a much needed splash of colour after the winter.

Whether you need help creating a herb garden, your garden needs a revamp, or you’re faced with a blank canvas, I offer a tailor made service from consultations to full garden rejuvenation projects.

Bel Grierson

Garden Designer & Plantswoman

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

BOSWORTH HOMECARE SERVICES (Loughborough)

(Established providers of domiciliary care for Leicestershire county council) Are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our team in a new area as a

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LOCAL NEWS

LABOUR CANDIDATE

COUNTY COUNCILLOR

M: 07894 229499 E: matthewocall@gmail.com

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

DR MATTHEW O’CALLAGHAN

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CHRISTINE RADFORD

’ve spent much of this last month in Shepshed knocking on doors and talking to people about the local issues that most affect them and their families.

going through the change that are affected most. Let’s hope stability returns to Education soon and schools get on with what they are best at – teaching our kids.

Top of the list is the future of public services in Shepshed and elsewhere.

As an example the County Council, to cut 700 jobs, is to withdraw from the running of 36 libraries throughout the County leaving just 16 including Shepshed. We’ve just learnt that the Council has to find more savings and so a review of the remaining libraries can’t be ruled out. It is important therefore that people use the library in Shepshed and its full range of services to show County Hall how vital it is to the life of our community.

I was delighted that Shepshed’s first Business Fair was held recently, a great opportunity for businesses to get to know each other. What is needed however is a sound plan not only to support existing businesses but to encourage new ones into the Town. Older residents of Shepshed will remember the many small businesses that used to flourish here but which have sadly gone. If we got small businesses back into Shepshed, it would be less of a dormitory town and those working locally would be more likely shop here. This would encourage a wider variety of shops, even a bank, into the Centre. We urgently need a joined-up ‘Master Plan’ for business in Shepshed.

Pressure on services is another issue that’s been raised. The growth in the number of houses in Shepshed isn’t being matched by a similar growth in the provision of services such as health, schools etc. GP’s are under significant pressure and recent research indicates that as many GP’s are nearing retirement not enough younger doctors are opting to replace them. All of this is being reflected in the increasing waiting time for a GP appointment. GP’s are recording in some areas relatively high numbers of ‘no shows’ for appointments or patients coming in with minor ailments that could be dealt with at home or through a visit to the local pharmacist in Shepshed.

Let’s all reduce the waiting times for GP’s and even for A&E by seeking the right level of advice for our medical problems. Talking of GP’s I’ve been following Shepshed’s Guru Singh’s fundraising for cancer – let’s all get behind Guru and support his efforts!

Education locally is in transition following a decision to reorganise primary and secondary education in Shepshed and elsewhere and to remove schools from local authority control to become independent under the Academy system. Reorganisation has to start somewhere but it’s the children

Finally, the ongoing issue regarding building new houses in Shepshed and the Garendon Estate. The Inspector has given his suggestions to Charnwood Borough Council to modify their Core Strategy. The Council are being very tight-lipped over what it intends to do regarding these proposals. Eventually one hopes that there will be a debate in public at the Council on the issues followed by public consultation.

Meanwhile the clock is ticking on the application for 3,200 homes on the Garendon Estate submitted last September to the Council. Will the Council defy public opinion and decide on the application before the inspector makes his final decision? I shall continue to fight Shepshed’s corner. Watch this space.

You can visit my website on www.matthewocallaghan.co.uk phone 01509 239659, email via matthew@matthewocallaghan. co.uk or write to me at 21 Fennel Street, Loughborough. LE11 1UQ

Matthew O’callaghan

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.

the average level of grant and council tax we would be an extra £54M per year better off. The County Council continues to lobby Government for fairer funding.

County Council Budget 2015/16 At the County Council’s annual Budget meeting on the 18TH February 2015, it was agreed to make £81.6M of savings including some service reductions. Staff reductions of 700 (f/t) over the next 4 years. They achieved £35M of efficiency savings (eg. £5M reductions in senior management, £12M from better procurement and £14Min service redesign).

Increase the county-element of council tax by 1.99%, the first rise in 4 years. Note that the Government’s revenue support grant will reduce from £73.2M in 2014/15 to £13.8M in 2018/19. A £228.9M capital programme over 4 years to pay for major building and roads schemes, LED street light conversions and superfast broadband provision.

BUSINESS FAYRE On February 18th, Shepshed held its first Business Fayre, organised

by Nicky Morgan MP and Christine Radford. The idea came from attendees of a town Business Forum breakfast meeting held at Livio’s restaurant. Urgo Medical of Sullington Road offered to sponsor the event and 24 stalls were pre-booked. The event took place in the main hall of the Shepshed High School from 10am to 1pm. The variety of businesses attended was amazing and those who visited during the morning were surprised at the number of diverse businesses there are in Shepshed. Loughborough College explained about how to go about employing apprentices, Bridge to Work, The LLEP (Leicester & Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership), Shepshed Town Team were also in attendance and gave out advice.

Although the economic indicators are improving – continued low interest rates, falling inflation and unemployment, the County Council is still facing tough decisions as austerity continues for the foreseeable future.

We remain the lowest funded County Council. If we received

Earlier this month, Samantha Cameron hosted a reception at 10 Downing Street for ‘charity champions’. Amongst the guests were Bob and Susan Lilley who were representing the Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responders.

Local MP, Nicky Morgan, nominated the group because of their work with Shepshed Lions

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

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

Christine Radford

SAMANTHA CAMERON CELEBRATES WORK OF THE SHEPSHED LIONS CLUB COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS

SHEPSHED VOLUNTEER CENTRE

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

The Shepshed Business Forum is open to anyone who runs a business within the town.

AT SHEPSHED HIGH SCHOOL

SATURDAY 21ST MARCH 2015 FROM 7.30PM UNTIL 12.00AM WITH

The Jenpenny Bit - Ceilidh Band Tickets £10 Per Adult, £5 Per Child, £25 Family Ticket Price Includes A Ploughmans Supper. Bar Available.

Tickets Available From Shepshed Volunteer Centre Open 9-11am.

Monday To Friday And Fydella For Hair. Call 01509 508040 For Details.

and in particular Bob, who set up the First Responder team.

Samantha Cameron said “It was a privilege to meet Bob and Susan from the Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responders at 10 Downing Street. They do some amazing work in Shepshed and they have helped so many people by offering a rapid response to those in need.”

UNITED KINGDOM INDEPENDENCE PARTY We are having an advice surgery on the 21st March between 10 am -12noon for Shepshed Residents.

Diane Horn, Shepshed Town Cllr and Bill Piper who is the United Kingdom Independence Party Parliamentary Candidate for Loughborough will be attending. Meeting is being held at Shepshed Town Council Offices, Charnwood Road.

LOCAL NEWS

BOROUGH COUNCILLOR

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

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

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

NICKY MORGAN

CHRISTINE RADFORD

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 - Core Strategy Charnwood Borough Council received a letter from the Inspector. The letter presents the Inspector’s finding that whilst the submitted Core Strategy is not sound in a number of respects, it can be made sound through main modifications.

However, modifications cannot be so extensive that they lead to a different strategy and the expectation is that the growth sites will remain the same with amended housing figures to reflect up to date market conditions.

What happens next?

The Inspector will now liaise with the Council on the modifications.

They are expected to be published for consultation for a period of six weeks starting in early March 2015.

The sustainability appraisal will be updated to consider the modifications proposed and consulted upon at the same time.

The Inspector will consider the consultation responses and the supporting sustainability

appraisal. The Inspector will then finalise his report to the Council.

The examination of the Core Strategy remains open until the final report from the inspector is received. The Inspector’s report and adoption of the Core Strategy will be considered by Charnwood Borough Council in summer 2015.

Anybody who wishes to contact the Inspector or requires any Examination assistance should contact Jane Strachan on 07895 540 555 or charnwood. programmeofficer@gmail.com Five-year housing land supply The Council monitors five-year housing land supply on a monthly basis to support the determination of planning applications. The latest five-year land supply figures for December 2014 show that the Council has at best a 4.63 year supply. If the Secretary of State releases or approves the North East of Leicester SUE planning application in the interim, a significant step will be made towards securing a five-year housing supply.

Generally speaking, it is not until the Inspector’s Report is received that the Plans Committee can give considerable weight to the Core Strategy.

Christine Radford and have massively expanded their operation since being set up in December 2013. I am also encouraged to hear that they have now expanded into Loughborough too.”

Nicky added “It was a pleasure to nominate the Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responders team and celebrate the sterling work carried out by Bob and Susan. The group are going from strength to strength

11

Bob commented “Susan and I were honoured to have been invited to meet Mrs Cameron at 10 Downing Street. We had a lovely evening and met a number of people who do amazing things for their communities. We would also like to thank the Nicky for nominating us to attend this wonderful event. We will treasure the memories for a long time.”

T

hank you to everyone who took part in or attended the Shepshed Business Fair which Cllr Christine Radford and I held at Shepshed High on 18th February.

It was excellent to see so many local businesses represented – and what an amazing diversity!

I know that new contacts were made and details exchanged. The presentation on apprenticeships also seemed to be well received.

I was also pleased that the Town Team was represented and I am grateful to Urgo Medical for their sponsorship and support.

The Fair showed just how many businesses there are in or near Shepshed and what potential there is for businesses to have a coordinated voice on investment and development in Shepshed and the job opportunities on offer. I look forward to the next Shepshed business forum meeting.

It was a great pleasure to take two committed and hardworking Shepshed volunteers to Downing Street to meet Samantha Cameron recently. Shepshed Lions members, Bob and Susan Lilley, do a huge amount with other Shepshed Lions members to raise money for charities including the Carnival held in August each year.

Bob has been instrumental in setting up and securing funding for the Shepshed Lions Club Community First Responders Scheme. Community First Responders are a group of motivated volunteers who make a positive impact in the community. They respond to emergency calls to the ambulance service, and support patients, families and friends at difficult times, providing urgent, qualified support. You might have read locally that a young and recently trained Community First Responder recently saved the life of a day old baby in Loughborough. The Scheme is going from strength to strength.

I would also like to thank all Shepshed Lions, and their guests, for making me so welcome at their recent Annual Dinner. It was a great evening.

I was delighted to catch up with Shepshed High and Hind Leys Head, Matthew Parrott, recently.

It was a great opportunity to hear news about the schools and their future plans. I also recently attended a meeting at County Hall to discuss the planned local age-range changes which will affect Shepshed’s local schools. I know that everyone involved in education in the town has been contributing to and working on the proposals.

I would like to wish Shepshedbased Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan Society a happy 50th anniversary. Celebrations begin with a concert version of Trial

by Jury. This will be staged at Christchurch on Saturday 14th March at 7.30pm in a ticket-only concert, following a performance at Mountsorrel on the previous Saturday. I am also looking forward to the Concert to be held at St Botolph’s at the end of February to raise money for the Passion Youth Group and , the Dinner to be held by the Association for the Prosecution of Felons to be held in Shepshed soon too.

Finally, the Prime Minister and Chancellor have been in the Midlands to announce a six point plan to make the Midlands the “Engine for Growth” in the UK. The plan focuses on jobs, skills, transport, science, and quality of life. In the course of this Parliament we have seen significant Government investment in Leicester and Leicestershire via, for example, the City Deal, the Midland Mainline electrification, in MIRA and in many other parts of our city and county. You can find out more here: www.nickymorgan. org/campaigns/pm-launches-longterm-economic-plan-midlands

Nicky Morgan

MUMMY’S SELL 2 MUMMY’S SALE Saturday 7th March - 10.00am - 2.00pm St Winefrides Catholic Primary Britannia Street, Shepshed, LE12 9AE

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.

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

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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

12

KIDS ZONE

SPRING FLOWERS Christie cat was busy spring cleaning her house after a very cold and damp winter. She was working hard dusting and polishing, sorting and tidying and making her house sparkle again.

Bethany was heading over to Christie’s house to see if she wanted to go out for a walk seeing as the weather was nice and warm for a change.

‘Hi Christie’ said Bethany. ‘Would you like to come out for a walk as it’s such a beautiful day today?’

‘It is a lovely warm day and just the right day for a walk, but I’m sorry but I can’t come out for a walk as I’m busy cleaning and tidying my house and I really want to get it all sparking and clean today.’ Said Christie feeling quite out of breath.

‘Ok’ said Bethany, I’ll go and ask Daniel.

So Bethany walked over to Daniel’s house. Daniel was busy in the garden when Bethany arrived.

‘Hi Daniel’ said Bethany, ‘would you like to come for a walk today as the weather is so nice and warm?’

‘I’d love to but I’m making the most of the weather and getting my garden ready to plant my seeds in’.

Replied Daniel.

‘Oh’ said Bethany looking sad.

‘You’re busy in the garden and Christie is busy in her house. I don’t have anyone to go for a walk with.’ Said Bethany feeling sad.

‘If Christie is busy spring cleaning her house, why don’t you pick some of the lovely spring flowers out of my garden and take her a bunch to make her clean house smell lovely too?’ Suggested Daniel.

SHEPSHED DYNAMO YOUTH & JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB We have had some nasty windy wet weather recently that has blunted the enthusiasm for some of the teams. Others think it is great fun but Mum’s are left huddled under umbrellas and monster coats. Dad’s to be more sensible and tend to come up with a good excuse and find a warm garage or something similar.

Most the teams are nearing the end of the season apart from the Under 17’s who are only just halfway. Our sympathy goes to our Under 17’s who have to travel to Market Harborough in April for a Tuesday 6pm kick off. I can’t see us making that.

Under 17’s have had some management changes but are up and running again although we have lost one (against the League leaders) and drawn one in the last couple of weeks.

Under 15’s have only played one game since the last report which they lost. There was another interesting result last week, a 16-2 win for one team! Pleased we were not involved.

Under 14’s have played three and won one of them away in Oakham.

Under 12’s played 2 since the last report, won 1 and drew with Barrow away who are second.

Under 11’s have played 4 since the last report but not managed to win any of them. David the Manager has been away on his FA Coaching Course so we are expecting big things from him with his new found knowledge.

Under 9’s are playing in a Development session at Hind Leys with Kegworth and Castle Donington on the 1st March. End of season games after that.

Under 8’s having been playing indoors so have not suffered from the wind and rain.

Under 7’s are training indoors with a view to playing some games against other Clubs in the spring.

The transfer deadline / registration date ends on the 28th February, so there will be no more multi million transfers until next season.

Entries are coming in for our tournament on the 9th and 10th May, I know you have the date pencilled into your diaries. We will also see you at the Shepshed Show.

We have had a couple of enquiries from lads via the Eye but we are still looking for new players for all age groups, please contact Mick on 07801 691712.

Bethany thought this was a wonderful idea and so she carefully picked some lovely flowers from Daniel’s garden and took them over to her friend.

March

Christie was so pleased that Bethany had taken the time to pick her some lovely flowers that she invited her in for tea and cake in her sparklingly clean home.

QUICK CRAFT Make A Lamb

YOU WILL NEED: • Cardboard or Thick Paper • Glue • Popcorn • Ribbon HOW TO DO IT: 1. Draw and cut out a lamb head, body and legs out of the cardboard or thick paper.

Draw a face on the head piece and then glue the head and legs to the body.

2. Spread a thin layer of glue onto the lamb body.

3. Sprinkle the popcorn onto the lamb body. (Different types of popcorn will give different coloured lambs!) Allow to dry overnight.

4. Use the ribbon to create a hanger and bow tie to decorate the lamb.

March comes roaring in just like a lion.

Winter’s final fling, there’s no denying.

Ice and snow an ever present threat.

Be sure he hasn’t finished with us yet.

The arctic blast will chill us to the bone.

Chapped hands and chilblains give us cause to moan.

“How can I dig this frozen ground?” the gardener cries.

A flurry of snowflakes falls from leaden skies.

But wait! Is that a crocus I see before me?

Yes. In stunning drifts of yellow, mauve and white.

Green shoots of daffodil, they soon in flower will be.

And winter migrants will be taking flight.

So take heart, winter slumber’s nearly over.

Spring, she is now waiting at the gate.

With paintbrush dipped in green she’ll work her magic And ducks on frozen ponds will no more have to skate.

Take heart as woodland turns a tender shade of green.

Late snowfall melts away as though it’s never been.

The month of March may come in like a lion.

But goes out like a meek and gentle lamb.

By Chris Rose

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

HALF A CENTURY OF G&S IN SHEPSHED

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Raynauds

Submitted by Sally Prytherch Hinds Feet Foot Care T: 07806786616 E: hindsfeetfootcare@gmail.com W: www.hindsfeetfootcare.co.uk Raynaud’s disease is a condition found in the hands and feet thought to be triggered by exposure to cold or emotional stress. The small blood vessels in the fingers and toes constrict and go into spasm restricting the flow of blood. It is most common in hands but is also seen in the feet and is characterised by fingers and toes becoming white and cold as the small blood vessels narrow. They can then become blue or purple followed by bright redness as the vessels open again. The return of the blood flow causes throbbing, tingling and pain with symptoms lasting from a few minutes to several hours.

There is no known cause in most cases (Primary Raynauds) just an increased sensitivity to cool temperatures. Women tend to be affected more often than men and it usually develops before the age of 30.

USEFUL WEBSITES:

Less commonly it can be a symptom of other underlying conditions such as scleroderma, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis (Secondary Raynauds).

Chemicals in tobacco can cause the small blood vessels to narrow and giving up smoking can be helpful.

Some medications can cause symptoms or make them worse and a medication review with the GP is advisable if this is suspected.

Caffeine has been known to increase symptoms in some people.

The aim of treatment is to keep the core of the body and the hands and feet warm. Medication, such as nifedipine can be used to open up the blood vessels in some cases and exercise can help improve circulation. “The Raynaud’s and Scleroderma Association” has a list of suppliers of heat devices to help with keeping hands and feet warm as well as other useful information and support.

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

Submitted by Bonita Irish FBDO Hallcroft Opticians T: 01509 650666 E: info@hallcroftopticians.co.uk W: www.hallcroftopticians.co.uk CHOOSING NEW GLASSES Choosing new glasses can be a challenging, fun and sometimes daunting experience. There are hundreds of frames to choose from with so many colours and styles available.

At Hallcroft Opticians we only have the best, qualified dispensing opticians to help you choose the ideal pair of specs. They are experts in giving advice in eyewear. Let their experience guide you and smoothen the process when choosing your glasses. From style and comfort advice with your frame choice to lens treatments and your budget, our dispensing opticians will not disappoint in offering you the very best in service and care at Hallcroft Opticians.

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Some people value appearances highly, and so they will take the shape of their face into account when choosing their ideal pair of glasses.

GLASSES FOR EVERYONE Hallcroft Opticians caters for as many people as possible with the availability of men’s glasses, women’s glasses and children’s glasses. Both metal and plastic spectacle frames are available in a variety of different colours and frame sizes. We cater for the larger head and small head sizes.

Why not book an eye test with Hallcroft Opticians and let our expert team of dispensing opticians help you find the ideal pair of glasses?

See more at: www.hallcroftopticians.co.uk Dispensing Opticians are regulated and registered with the General Optical Council and Association of British Dispensing Opticians, so always make sure you buy your glasses from a Dispensing Optician or Optometrist to get the best up to date advice on your eye care and eye wear.

Shepshed-based Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan Society is this year celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Celebrations begin with a concert version of Trial

by Jury. This will be staged at Christchurch on Saturday 14th March at 7.30pm in a ticket-only concert, following a performance at Mountsorrel on the previous Saturday.

The 14th March event will include a display of photographs and other memorabilia, including a memory tree for members past and present to record their reminiscences. A booklet featuring the Society’s history is planned, plus a comprehensive catalogue of everyone who has taken part since the group’s formation, explains Chairman Roger Titterton.

Celebrations will culminate in a full-scale production of Iolanthe in November, recalling the group’s very first venture 50 years ago, Roger adds.

The Society can trace its roots to a series of school productions in the 1940s. These took place at Broom Leys School on the outskirts of Coalville where a youthful Keith Bailey was a promising pupil. Some 20 years later Keith was established as organist and choirmaster at the Methodist church in Field Street, Shepshed.

Ideas were being sought for a church concert, and minister Rev Brian S Smith suggested that some G&S songs might be attempted.

Remembering his schooldays Keith agreed to assemble the choir plus a few guest performers to stage an abridged version of Iolanthe just a few weeks later. Peers clad in cricket whites and velvet curtains took to the diminutive stage in the upstairs hall, while fairies (oblivious of to-day’s health and safety regulations) appeared in fetching costumes crafted from crepe paper!

Such was their success that two years later a grander production of The Mikado was touring the area. The group took the title ‘Friends of Christchurch Methodist’, generally performing on alternate years to fit in with the choir’s other commitments.

With widening horizons came bigger and better shows, a rapidly expanding orchestra and a wealth of backstage expertise.

The performing venue moved commensurately to Hind Leys High School and thence to Hind Leys College.

Growing interest brought a demand for annual productions, and in 1991 the group formalised into Christchurch G&S Society.

The doors opened to welcome new talent, but the valued links with Christchurch and former members were never lost.

Over time the Society has brought pleasure to thousands of people, but perhaps especially to the hundreds of performers taking part. Innumerable friendships have resulted, inevitably accompanied by a host of funny stories.

The photo shows Keith surrounded by a bevy of beautiful maidens, all set for the 1980 production of The Pirates of Penzance preceded by Trial by Jury. Top left is Richard Perkins as Major-General Stanley, supposedly the father of all these ladies. No wonder he looks worried!

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