November 2016 - Your Local Rothley & Mountsorrel

CAL

IN W

5600 delivered FREE to homes and businesses in Rothley & Mountsorrel

R G HE PIN UC OP VO SH ON UR AZ YO AM H 5 IT £2 W A ELP H

L

TO

r u yo

November 2016

A NEW boiler from just * £1,620(inc.

VAT) or £7 per week Includes fitting, up to 10 years warranty, plus a price match guarantee.

0116 287 8000 | www.ukgasservices.co.uk *See website for terms & conditions.

YOUR TRUSTED HOME SERVICE PARTNER Leicestershire’s local installer of boilers & central heating for over 20 years.

5663

Open On Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Eve & New Years Day Booking Advisable Christmas Party Menu

Christmas Day Menu

Popadoms & Pickle Tray

Popadoms & Pickle Tray

STARTERS

STARTERS Garlic Mushrooms Mix Kebab Prawn Cocktail

Chef Special Tray (Chicken Tikka, Vegetable Pakora, Onion Bhaji, Lamb Shashlik) MAIN DISHES

Any Chicken, Lamb Or Vegetable Dish Of Your Choice With Pilau Rice & Naan Bread £17.95 Per Person Minimum Set Meal For Two Persons

MAIN DISHES Roast Turkey & Lamb Marinated In A Light Indian Spice

READY TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A BOOST?

We offer a variety of design and print services for your business needs whether it’s business stationery, promotional items or workwear. We also offer a unique marketing service through our magazines DQG OHDŴHW GHOLYHU\ VHUYLFH *HW LQ WRXFK WRGD\ T: 0800 6446150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

THE HEART OF ENGLAND CHORUS LEICESTER BARBERSHOP HARMONY CLUB

Pan Seared Salmon (Pre Order Only) Vegetable Wellington (Pre Order Only) Served With Roast Potatoes, Vegetables, Indian Gravy Sauce, Rice & Naan Adult £34.95

Per Person

Child (Under 12) £17.95 Per Person

Boxing Day Lunchtime

New Years Eve

Popadoms & Pickle Tray

Popadoms & Pickle Tray

Any Starter

Any Starter

Any Main Dish

Any Main Dish

With Pilau Rice & Naan Bread

With Pilau Rice & Naan Bread

Ice Cream & Coffee

Ice Cream & Coffee

Complimentary Liqueur

Champagne & Party Poppers

£24.95 Per Person 12noon - 6pm

£24.95 Per Person 9:30pm onwards

We are part of the British Association of Barbershop Singers which are (no straw boaters and stripy aprons) rehearsing at the Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, 7–30 every Monday, singing Acappella four part unaccompanied harmony.

We invite all youths, young men and men who can sing, even those who think they can’t, to come and join us It’s free, and with our new MD Ian Phillips and Assistant MD Christine Dickens we are looking to progress further with our singing.

TEL: (0116) 267 7458 / 267 1850

Our next major “ sing out “ is at “ Vocal Explosion “ where we will join with some top Barbershop Choruses, Quartets and Choirs for a great evening’s singing promoting a superb and rewarding hobby

Sun - Thu: 6pm - 11.30pm - Fri & Sat: 6pm - Midnight

Give me a call, P.J. Hunt on 0116 267 5339 or email me at jansbolt@btinternet.com

15-17 Sibson Road, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 4DX OPENING HOURS

Steve Goodger

Electrical Services

Re-wires - Extra Sockets - Lighting Burglar Alarms - Security Lighting or any other electrical problems Part P Registered Over 30 years experience in the electrical trade 29 Dalby Road, Anstey, Leicester

Call Steve on 07724 057567 2

NEED NEW LOCKS?

Specialist based in Ratby, Leicester offering professional locksmith services to both domestic and commercial customers. So whether you need us straight away to obtain access, change locks or deal with a lock problem, we are on hand to help with a friendly service that is second to none.

CALL Gary 07734

Authorised Police Contractor

424 911 OR 0116 2388 109

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

your

LOCAL

The Great British Dog Survey

JOIN & FOLLOW US

Are we treating dogs like children?

THE FIRST EVER Great British Dog Survey, undertaken by the charity Guide Dogs, has revealed that many owners are treating their dogs like children. The UK’s dogs often share our most popular baby names, are spoilt rotten on their birthdays and get pampered on an almost weekly basis.

facebook.com/yourlocal twitter.com/yourlocal

SALES TEAM SARAH TAYLOR T: 0800 6446 150 E: sarah@openboxpromotions.co.uk

It seems the UK really is a nation of dog lovers as we give them the same names as our children. The survey found that Poppy is the most popular dog name overall, as well as being the 5th most popular for baby girls in 2015. When it comes to boys, Charlie is the 2nd most popular dog name and also 5th when it comes to baby boys.

DAWN HARRIS T: 0800 6446 150 E: dawn@openboxpromotions.co.uk

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER ANDREW LEWIS M: 07504 634 838 E: andy@openboxpromotions.co.uk

It doesn’t just stop with names though as 4 out of 10 dogs get their own birthday present, and thousands more pooches get dressed up over the festive season. It appears the nation’s love of dogs knows no bounds!

PUBLISHED BY

The survey also found that Labrador Retrievers are the most popular UK dog breed, followed by Jack Russell Terriers and Border Collies. The results of the survey make it clear just how much dogs mean to the thousands of owners across the nation. For guide dog owners, their dogs really do mean the world.

Nicola Harvey, a guide dog owner says “If you have lost your sight but want to keep your mobility and independence, I’d advise you to think seriously about getting a guide dog. I can get around with a long cane but I’m nowhere near as confident. When you have a guide dog, you have a friend and a companion.”

OPEN BOX PROMOTIONS LTD T: 0800 6446 150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk Open Box Promotions Ltd, 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, LE9 2HQ

The iconic guide dog service is at the heart of the charity, Guide Dogs has transformed the lives of thousands of people with sight loss by partnering them with a guide dog, helping them take control of their lives and move around freely and independent. Guide dogs mean the world to the people they help and it’s no surprise to see how strongly the British people love their dogs.

PRINTED BY NORWOOD PRESS T: 01530 262020 E: info@norwoodpress.co.uk W: www.norwoodpress.co.uk

As a charity, Guide Dogs helps thousands of people overcome the physical and emotional barriers of sight loss and their work has never been so vital. Almost two million people in the UK are living with sight loss. By 2050, there could be nearly 4 million. You can read the full survey results here http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/dogsurvey

Norwood Press, Unit 1, Moore Road, South Leicester Industrial Estate, Ellistown, LE67 1EU

NEXT ISSUE OUT

Operation Christmas Child asks for one million shoeboxes

DELIVERY DATE:

Wednesday 14th December 2016

DEADLINE DATE:

Wednesday 7th December 2016 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 Your Local or Open Box Promotions Ltd. Open Box Promotions Ltd reserves the right to amend or refuse to publish articles or adverts submitted for publication.

THIS YEAR Operation Christmas Child UK hopes to send one million shoeboxes to needy children in developing countries.

And if you find it hard to get hold of a shoebox, no worries: OCC is now offering flat-pack shoeboxes for individuals, families, churches, schools and community groups.

The vision of Operation Christmas Child remains so simple: “a Christmas shoebox gift is a ‘treasure chest’ for a child who has never received such a gift before. It is a powerful symbol of hope that someone, Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability somewhere, cared enough to pack a gift. Last year, people across the UK set 900,008 shoeboxes to 14 can be accepted for loss or inconvenience different countries. They played a key part in over 11 million children globally experiencing God’s caused as a result of error or omission. To see full terms & conditions visit unconditional love through a simple gift. Thank you!” More details at: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk/terms RATE CARD 2016.qxp_Layout 1 26/04/2016 09:42https://www.samaritans-purse.org.uk/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child Page 1

ADVERTISING RATES ADVERT PRICES Advert Size

Width

Height

Eighth Page

94.5mm

63.5mm

£40

Quarter Page

94.5mm

134mm

£70

Half Page

196mm

134mm

£120

Full Page

196mm

275mm

£225

Front Strip (210mm x 50mm) - ONLY £150+VAT

One Off Adverts

-

3 Month Pre Pay or 3 Areas

Advertorial Prices

+VAT

£90+VAT (£30 p/m)

N/A

+VAT

£165+VAT (£55 p/m)

£105+VAT

+VAT

£285+VAT (£95 p/m)

£180+VAT

+VAT

£585+VAT (£195 p/m)

£337.50+VAT

Back Page (210mm x 297mm) - ONLY £250+VAT

Call us on 0800 6446 150 or Email: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk

your

LOCAL

Community Eye t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk Magazines

3

THE MONDAY CLUB

ANSTEY. CROPSTON, THURCASTON AND ROTHLEY To conclude the social Meetings for the year 2016, the Members arrived in November sunshine and enjoyed the happy atmosphere of greetings and anticipation for what the future would hold for this Christmas and the New Year in 2017.

Firstly, of course, the issue of arrangements for Christmas had to be addressed and here we greeted an old friend, Penny Hodgson, who took us through a light hearted look at the festive season. Penny said we all get so involved with the preparation and planning especially the ladies, that we sometimes forget the true meaning of Christmas and whatever message it holds for us.

Penny talked us through some of the many customs and symbols of Christmas, their history and why we still practise them, Some of them have their origins in pagan ancestry, long before Christianity, when the mid-winter festival of Yuletide was celebrated. Other activities are more recent and owe their popularity to Victorian times. Many of us have our own particular customs, passed down through the generations when the nostalgia of our childhood is strong at this time of the year.

Penny also looked at the problem of buying presents, sometimes this gets ever increasingly difficult and expensive and these days very technical as well! But perhaps for many of us

the focus is on shopping for food and drink: certainly the Supermarkets would have us think so as we fill our trolleys to siege proportions and cannot sleep for deciding “whether to stuff our dates or not”. Such is the hype and anticipation about Christmas as we try to plan the “perfect day”!

So as we heard, with a great deal of humour supported by the pulling of Crackers and the reading of the sometimes good but corny jokes, we thought about how we would be spending our own Christmas this year mindful of the many blessings we enjoy, compared with many other peoples in different parts of the World. We think about “How to Survive this Christmas” in a materialist way in our consumer led society, whereas for others it may be a grim reality. We concluded Penny’s talk by enjoying a variety of lovely cakes to accompany very welcome cups of tea.

Fortunately, I hope for most of us in our respective villages of Anstey, Thurcaston, Cropston and Rothley that this Christmas will be a time to be enjoyed with friends and family remembering our Lord’s Birthday as we celebrate.

The Monday Club wishes everyone a very Happy Christmas and a Blessed New Year.

Ann Farndon

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

Admission £2.00. Large free car park

All players welcome, come and have a go

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

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

Next Month Christmas Special 4

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople

perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Rothley & Mountsorrel areas and manager Michael Parr agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good

business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

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

TLC KITCHENS

BRING NEW LIFE TO OLD KITCHENS Ɣ Ɣ Ɣ Ɣ Ɣ Ɣ

Door changes Worktop changes New Kitchens Hundreds of colours Hundreds of Designs Appliances & more …

WE WILL BEAT ANY

“Like for Like” Written quotation

W

NE

THINKING OF UPDATING YOUR KITCHEN ?

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

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

Your Local Gas & Plumbing Specialist

AUTUMN SPECIAL

10% OFF all Boiler Installations plus FREE TRV’s* for your home if you book by 30th November 2016. * Up to 10 thermostatic radiator valves (TRV’s) to be installed.

kitc hen

befo re

..!

www.tlc4kitchens.co.uk

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

07890 658750 Independent Local Business since 2003 0116 356 0234

info@mgas.co.uk P www.mgas.co.uk

Call Tony for a FREE quote

0116 2303 234

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

5

529363

Call Lee on 0116 359 3100 SERVICING Average appliance has 30 items checked, adjusted and cleaned

Landlord electronic certificates with email/text reminder service available Fully insured

REPAIRS FIX PRICE GUARANTEED Installations, Free Quotations

'\QDPLF SRZHU ŴXVKLQJ DYDLODEOH

ERP Boilers from £1250 plus VAT

/3* TXDOLƓHG

5,7 and 10 years warranties

25 years of experience

www.ignitegasltd.co.uk

EY THL

RO

Check us out on

EL

ORR

TS OUN

&M

/ignitegasservices

Domestic Appliance Spares & Repairs

All Leading Makes Serviced - 20 Years Experience

Washers Dryers Dishwashers Fridges Cookers ●

●

●

GAS AND ELECTRIC NOW TAKING CREDIT/DEBIT CARD PAYMENT

David Preston - Mob: 0775 262 3885

www.1-4-all.co.uk

6

KEITH SMITH (ANSTEY) LTD

6 STADON ROAD ANSTEY LE7 7AY - TEL: 0116 2362395 - sales@keithsmithltd.co.uk

FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY Save

£20

BOSCH

BEKO

SMS50T02GB

WMC1282W

Dishwasher 12 Place Settings 5 Programmes Half Load Noise Level 50db A+AA Rated

Washing Machine 1200rpm Spin Speed 8Kg Load Capacity Quick Wash 15 Programmes A+++AB Rated

Now Only

£249 .99

HOTPOINT WMAQC741P Save

£50

Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 7Kg Load Capacity Quick Wash 16 Programmes A+AB Rated Now Only

£249

.99

BOSCH WAB28162GB Washing Machine 1400rpm Spin Speed 6kg Load Capacity A+++AB Rated Express Wash

15 Programmes Now Only

Fitted Kitchens We are pleased to announce that we are now agents for A.W.E Kitchens and Bedrooms Who specialise in Bespoke made to measure kitchen & bedroom furniture Please call in for further details

£289 .99

Internet Pricing

Now Only

£229 .99

BOSCH KGN34VW24G Fridge Freezer Frost Free 191/127 Ltrs 3 Clear Drawers A+ Rated

H185 x W60 x D65 Now Only

£389 .99

B12S53N3GB Single Electric Oven Multifunction Cooking A-20% Rated 67 litre Main Oven CircoTherm Fan H59.5 x W59.5 x D55 Now Only

£349 .99

ANSTEY

with Personal Service

“Ask About our Same Day/Next Day Installation and Removal Service”

HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ CREDA ~ WHIRLPOOL ~ ZANUSSI ~ INDESIT ~ BELLING ~ HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ ELECTROLUX

0116 2505 848

HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ CREDA ~ WHIRLPOOL ~ ZANUSSI ~ INDESIT ~ BELLING ~ HOTPOINT ~ SIEMENS ~ CANNON ~ BOSCH ~ ELECTROLUX ~

WASHING MACHINES ~ FRIDGE FREEZERS ~ FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ~ TUMBLE DRYERS ~ COOKERS ~ OVENS ~

WASHING MACHINES ~ FRIDGE FREEZERS ~ FAST FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ~ TUMBLE DRYERS ~ COOKERS ~ OVENS ~

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

Action Man Weekend The National Memorial Arboretum A talk by Roger Hailwood on Monday October 24, 2016, at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall.

The Friends of Charnwood Forest held their regular talk at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall. Over 50 members and guests heard a fascinating talk by Roger Hailwood. a speaker at venues throughout the UK. At Alrewas, where he lives, heat regarded as the “Greys “Greys and and Hastings Hastings – Families Families at War” War” “Greys and Hastings Families War” “Greys and Hastings ––– Families atisat War” village historian and he has published several books. In Alrewas he has been a youth leader, Roger Hailwood is a guide for the National Arboretum. He is part of their promotional team as

50th Anniversary Action Man Weekend to be held in the former offices of the Palitoy factory on 3rd and 4th December. Palitoy was an important employer in Coalville from 1937 to 1986 marketing such toys as Tiny Tears, Tressy, Pippa, Girls World, Star Wars, Care Bears, Mainline Railways as well as Action Man and Action Force.

a church chorister and a Parish Councillor.

Roger’s talk about the National Arboretum was copiously illustrated by slides and covered its Talkand Talk byDave Dave

by Dave Taylor Taylor Talk Taylor foundation and development, pictures of many of more than three hundred memorials Talk bybyDave Taylor on the site. th October th th The National Memorial Arboretum is UK’s year-round centre remembrance October 2015 2015 at7.30 7.30 atof7.30 p.m. p.m. and is home to Monday Monday 19 October 2015 p.m.

Monday th19 October 2015 atat7.30 p.m.

Monday 1919 the iconic Armed Forces Memorial which was dedicated in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen.

Woodhouse Woodhouse Eaves Eaves Village Village HallHall Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall

The Arboretum features over 300 thought memorials nestled amongst lush and Woodhouse Eaves provoking Village Hall maturing woodland. Military and civilian associations are represented alongside tributes for individuals.

Rich in design and symbolism, and sympathetic to the landscape theyfamilies inhabit, the hroughout Throughout much much of history of history the the rivalry rivalry between between theGrey the Grey Grey and and Hastings Hastings families families hashas oughout much history the rivalry between the and Hastings has ughout much ofofhistory the rivalry the Grey and Hastings families has memorials and their stories are waitingbetween to be discovered.

betracing tracing be tracing thisthrough this through through the the een been afeature feature a feature ofthe the ofstory the story story ofthe the ofEast the East East Midlands.

Midlands.

Wewill We willbe will this the en Midlands.

We be tracing this through the a afeature ofofthe story ofof the East Midlands.

We will Further information Peter Bertram 01162 100 572. Advance notice: ”Lacemakers and Luddites”oming coming toprominence prominence to prominence ofboth both of both families families towards towards theend the endof end ofthe the oflate the lateMiddle late Middle Middle Ages Ages ming toprominence ofboth families towards the Ages January of 23rd 2017families towards the end of the late Middle Ages ng toMonday rough through Tudor Tudor Times, Times, theEnglish the English English CivilCivil War, War, theRestoration the Restoration Restoration andbeyond. and beyond. beyond. ough Tudor Times, the Civil War, the and ugh Tudor Times, the English Civil War, the Restoration and beyond.

Whet your appetite for christmas at Woodside Animal Centre

eginning Beginning withthe with thelink the linkwith link withthe with theFerrers the Ferrers Ferrers family family which which brought brought theGreys the Greys Greys to to ginning with family which brought the nning with the link with the Ferrers family which brought the Greys toto rominence prominence andthe and therelationship the relationship relationship between between theillthe illfated fated ill fated Lord Lord Hastings Hastings andKing and King King minence and between the Lord Hastings and minence and the relationship between the ill fated Lord Hastings and King ichard Richard lllwe we lllwill we willchart will chart chart thefluctuating the fluctuating fluctuating fortunes fortunes ofthe the oftwo the twofamilies two families families –the the –prominence the prominence prominence hard lllwe the fortunes ard lllLeicester’s will chart the fluctuating fortunes ofofthe two families – –the prominence biggest Christmas Market is coming to Woodside Animal Centre, Scudamore Road, the of the Hastings Hastings “puritan” “puritan” Earl Earl of Huntingdon of Huntingdon under under Elizabeth Elizabeth l, the l, the resurgence resurgence Hastings“puritan” “puritan” EarlofofHuntingdon Huntingdonunder underElizabeth Elizabeth l,the theresurgence resurgenceofofof of eheHastings Leicester Forest East Earl on 26th and 27th November.

In aid of RSPCA l, Leicester branch, there will rey Grey fortunes fortunes under under James James l through l through thetaking the taking taking ofopposite opposite of opposite sides sides during during the the CivilCivil Action Man was launched on 29th January ey fortunes under James l through the of sides during the Civil be 50 craft stalls, a variety of hot food stalls, live music – including carol singing a brass fortunes under James l through the taking of opposite sides during and the Civil 1966 and was inspired by the American toy -the andlater afading huge Santa’s grotto.

War, toband the tolater later fading intorelative into relative relative obscurity obscurity ofboth both of both families. families. r,toWar, tothe the fading into obscurity families. later fading into relative obscurity ofofboth families.

G I Joe which Palitoy took under licence from The market will have a distinctly ‘artisan’ feel, featuring high quality gift stalls, cheese makers and chocolatiers and a bar provided by Charnwood Micro Brewery.

Theare event offers something for everyone – whether you are door. after unique Christmas gifts, an embers Members arefree. are free. free.

Guests Guests are are welcome, welcome, £3 at £3 the atdoor. the door.

Refreshments Refreshments included. included. mbers Guests are welcome, the Refreshments included. bersunforgettable are free.

Guests welcome, £3£3atatthe door.

Refreshments included. visit with are Santa or just the opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit!

Free parking is available in the areas surrounding Scudamore Road. More information is

urther Further information: information: Peter Peter Bertram Bertram 01162 01162 100572 100 572572 orwww.focf.org.uk www.focf.org.uk or www.focf.org.uk ther information: Peter Bertram 01162 100 available on the website: www.rspcaleicester.org.uk her information: Peter Bertram 01162 100 572 ororwww.focf.org.uk

Hasbro and over the years transformed the toy into a British icon. In collaboration with Hasbro, Art and Science are launching 6 versions of Action Man starting this year to celebrate the 50th anniversary.

About Woodside Animal Centre Located on Scudamore Road, Leicester, Woodside Animal Centre have been taking care of stray, unwanted and injured animals for the last 40 years.

The charity aim to turn ‘sad tails into paw-fect endings’ with the help of their highly trained staff and volunteers. The branch is one of the top performing RSPCA centres in the UK, with a very low animal return rate.

Education teams provide support to pet owners, experienced and unexperienced, to continually drive hope the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Woodside Animal Centre is an independent branch of the RSPCA, meaning they receive no financial support from the main inspectorate. The charity rely solely on public donations.

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

7

Severn Trent remind customers to be wary of bogus callers SEVERN TRENT has warned its customers to be extra vigilant after callous crooks claimed to be working on behalf of the company in Leicestershire earlier this week (7 November).

A customer was approached by a man claiming to be from a drainage company who asked for a significant deposit to carry out work at her home. After paying the deposit, the customer became concerned and contacted Severn Trent which was not involved.

The matter is now being investigated by Leicestershire Police.

Severn Trent is now reminding all customers in the county to check for identification before agreeing to any work at their homes.

Hilary Bennett, head of customer contact at Severn Trent, said: “We can’t stress how important it is for customers to check the identity of the person knocking on the door.

It doesn’t matter how convincing they look, if they work for us they’ll be carrying an identity card and you can check that they’re legitimate by ringing 0345 604 1655.

Birstall Flower Club Birstall Flower Club announces it’s Christmas Open Evening on Wednesday 23rd November 2016 at Birstall Village Hall, 6.30 for a 7.15pm start. A qualified National NAFAS demonstrator: NICK GROUNDS will be making some stunning flower arrangements and you can watch how he does this. Buy a raffle ticket and you may even win one of the arrangements. The title of his demonstration is “Seasonal Anticipation” Entry by ticket only from Sylvia 0116 2674206 or Mary 07704398017- £10 and includes light refreshments.

Come and join us for a fantastic evening of entertainment.

We are also running a workshop for you to make your own Christmas door wreath.

“We’d also never try to get access to a customer’s house to fix pipes or to fit meters without making an appointment first and, even then, if anyone has any doubts, they should call us to double check.

“Our phone lines are manned 24-hours a day, seven days a week, and our employees fully expect customers to check their identity, either with a card or a call, and they’ll wait while you carry out the necessary checks.”

In addition, Severn Trent would never ask customers to pay for a service on the doorstep, or ask for bank details over the telephone.

The company also operates a doorstep password scheme to help protect customers from bogus callers, find out more here: www.stwater.co.uk/doorstep-password

Walking Football If you thought your football career was over, think again!

Walking Football is a slower paced version of the game, aimed at the over 50’s.

Walking Football is one of the latest crazes in the football world. It is an activity that gives those that had previously given up playing the chance to get back into the sport they love.

As you’ve guessed Walking Football involves a lot of… well… walking. It carries all the same rules as everyday football, except you can’t pick up too much speed. It provides a sociable, fun and safe environment for those looking to be a little more active in their spare time.

Guidelines for Sessions

This is being held at the Village Hall in Birstall on Wednesday 7th December from 7-9pm. We will help you to create your own individual Christmas door wreath. A fee of £15 includes your oasis wreath ring, ribbons, cones, etc and all your fresh foliage, or you can bring your own frame and “bits and pieces” and the class will be £7.50. Tea/Coffee/biscuits will be available. Tickets available from Sylvia 0116 2674206 or Mary 07704398017. Bring a friend and enjoy an evening with a difference and have something to take home at the end.

Get some sleep

-

Players are encouraged to avoid sprinting, running or jogging while the ball is in play

-

Anyone doing so is penalised with a free-kick awarded to the other team

-

If the ball goes off the pitch over the touchline, the game is restarted via a kick, roll or throw-in (to allow for different physical capabilities)

-

It can be played indoors or outdoors

-

Numbers per team are dependent on the number of participants at each session

-

No pitch size/surface constraints - dependent on venue

-

Variations and game adaptations can be made to suit participants’ needs and capabilities.

A study by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) points out that poor sleep impacts our ability to perform, and has been linked to a number of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart attack and depression.

We have a number of sessions up and running (or should we say walking) that are open to everyone:

“We do need to wake up to the benefits of sleep,” says the RSPH.

Loughborough Leisure Centre, Loughborough, LE11 3HE, Monday 6pm - 7pm Wreake Valley Community College, Syston, LE7 1LY, Mondays 5pm - 6pm Markfield Community Centre, Markfield,LE67 9ST, Tuesday - two sessions, 10:30am 11:30am & 6:30pm -7:30pm Find out more at http://www.leicestershirefa.com/players/walking-football

8

MOST OF us are not getting enough sleep. Instead of the 7.7 hours we feel we need, we are making do with 6.8 hours a night.

NEXT ISSUE OUT

DELIVERY DATE: Wednesday 14th December 2016 DEADLINE DATE: Wednesday 7th December 2016

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

HIGHCLIFFE AMATEUR THEATRICAL SOCIETY (HATS) 2016 It’s Panto time again This year we will be performing

GOLDILOCKS AND THE 3 BEARS

by Damian Trasler, David Lovesy and Steve Clark TLC Creative.

I am sure you all remember the traditional well known story of goldilocks and her escapades with the bears. A cute and very endearing story from your childhood.

Activity groups awarded for helping older people stay active Activity groups which help older people stay active have been celebrated at an awards ceremony. The ‘Feel Alive at 65’ Celebration Evening, run by Leicestershire and Rutland Sport, celebrates people who continue to stay physically active.

Activity groups run by Charnwood Borough Council were among those who were recognised. Thurmaston Games Morning won the Community Group Award for its work to help members improve their physical and mental health. The group offers activities such as New Age Kurling, indoor bowls and table top games.

Councillor Jonathan Morgan, Lead Member for Community Cohesion said: “We’re committed to supporting our residents to stay mentally and physically healthy, so it’s fantastic to see our groups rewarded for their hard work.

“We have a range of activities on offer for older residents to help them stay healthy and active including regular walking groups around the borough, games mornings and falls prevention sessions.

Parkinson’s Chair Based Exercise group in Loughborough and Barrow upon Soar Walking Group were both shortlisted for awards.

For more information about activity sessions on offer www.charnwood.gov.uk/adult_sports or call 01509 632 535

in

Charnwood,

visit

Well sit back and enjoy this newer version, with twists you will never have thought of, and new characters that will bring a whole new story alive before your eyes.

Watch carefully for the “sting” in the tail. I don’t Friendship Force is a not-for-profit cultural exchange organization promoting friendship and want to say too much about what this might goodwill through a programme of homestaycultural exchanges since 1977.organization The Friendship Force Friendship Force is a not-for-profit exchange promotin mean, I want you to be intrigued and excited and Club of Leicestershire completed its programme of of Incoming and Outgoing Homestays for Th friendship and goodwill through a programme homestay exchanges since 1977. eager to come and find out for yourself.

2016 when it hosted 17 members from both Houston and Reno/Tahoe Clubs for an eight-day Friendship Force Club of Leicestershire completed its programme of Incoming an For those of you who return to see our visit to Leicestershire.

Outgoing Homestays for 2016 when it hosted 17 members from both Houston an performances year after year, you know exactly Before coming Leicestershire the two American clubs had enjoyed a week-long Reno/Tahoe Clubstofor an eight-day visitNorth to Leicestershire. what to expect, chaos, laughter, singing, homestay with members of the Friendship Force Club of Cornwall and visited the sights of the two North American clubs had enjoyed Before coming to Leicestershire applause, boos, and the odd mistake (made on London and Windsor Castle in-between time. The ambassadors arrived in Leicestershire on week-long homestay with members of the Friendship Force Club of Cornwall an purpose of course). LOL. an October Saturday evening and were met by their hosts (who live in various areas of visitedthe the sightsThe of next London andaWindsor Castle in-between If this is your first time watching HATS, then you are county). day was free day until the evening when atime.

Welcome Dinner had Thearranged ambassadors arrived in Leicestershire on anbyOctober evenin in for a treat. Join in, have some fun and we are been at Leicester’s Belmont Hotel; this was followed Welcome Saturday Greetings and and were met by was theirprovided hosts by (who live in various areas of the county). The next da sure you will return again and again. entertainment the Leicester G. & S. Society.

arranged was aThe free day until the whenincluding a Welcome Dinner week progressed withevening various activities a guided walking had tour ofbeen Leicester City Leicester’s Belmont Hotel; this was followed by Welcome Greetings and entertainme under the leadership of a local Blue Badge Guide and a lunch-time buffet was served in was provided by thepreserved Leicester G. & S. the wonderfully Y Theatre (a Society. real theatrical gem in the centre of Leicester); a traditional Longprogressed Alley Skittles evening at a localactivities hostelry; a including visit to Tuesday’s marketswalking at Meltontour The week with various a guided Mowbray; a visit to Market Harborough and Foxton Locks and a visitand to Loughborough’s Leicester City under the leadership of a local Blue Badge Guide a lunch-time buff Prices: market and Carillon (where a special recital was given £6.00 adults - £5.00 children and concessions was served in the wonderfully preserved Y Theatre (a real theatrical gem in the cent by the borough carilloner). The programme was completed with a Bring & Share Farewell £20 family ticket, 2 adults and 2 children. of Leicester); a traditional Long Alley Skittles evening at a local hostelry; a visit Supper at the Rothley Centre followed with entertainment presented by the Barrow-uponTuesday’s markets at Melton Mowbray; a visit to Market Harborough and Foxton Lock Venue: Highcliffe Primary School Soar Ukulele Orchestra. The closing speeches were given by Geoff.

Greengate Lane, Birstall, LE4 3DL and a visit to Loughborough’s market and Carillon (where a special recital was give Wainwright, Jean Porter and Roni Nicora (the 3 exchange directors) and both incoming by theclubs borough carilloner). The programme was completed with a Bring & Sha Box office: 0116 2209594 or 0116 2216019 offered to arrange a reciprocal exchange for sometime in the future. The other incompresented Farewell Supper Centre followed with ing exchange at for the 2016Rothley was a group of 9 ambassadors who entertainment had come from the F.F. Club ofby th Barrow-upon-Soar Ukulele Orchestra.

The closing speeches were given

by Geo Florianopolis, Brazil.

Wainwright, Jean Porter and Roni Nicora (the 3 exchange directors) and bo In August some members of the Leicestershire Club visited the F.F. of Bratislava and in Sepincoming clubs offered to visited arrange reciprocal exchange forClub sometime inand thethe future. tember other members the a Greater Hamilton& Burlington (Canada) The other incoming exchange for 2016 was a group of 9 ambassadors who ha Greater Cincinnati Club (U.S.A.) come Plans fromare thealready F.F. Club of Florianopolis, Brazil. well in hand for various homestay exchanges for 2017; in July we will be In August some the Costa Leicestershire Club visited theTheF.F. welcoming members of members Cuidad de lasofFlores, Rica and Murray Bridge, Australia.

Bratislava and in September other members visited the Greater Hamilton& Burlingto Leicestershire Club has been invited to visit the clubs of Trujillo, Peru and Florianopolis, Brazil.

We are always on the Club (Canada) and the Greater Cincinnati Club (U.S.A.) Soon we will be starting to make arrangements for both incoming and outgoing exchanges lookout for local news.

Plans for 2018. are already well in hand for various homestay exchanges for 2017; Please send articles to: July we will be welcoming members of Force Cuidad Flores, Murra Further information relating to Friendship cande be las obtained fromCosta its webRica pagesand or by yourlocal@ contacting our member – Margaret Myatt – tel.

01530 244388 or e.mail: Bridge, Australia. The Leicestershire Club has been invited to visit the clubs of Trujill openboxpromotions.co.uk melrose1936@icloud.com Peru and Florianopolis, Brazil.

Soon we will be starting to make arrangements for both incoming and outgoin 9 exchanges for 2018. t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk Further information relating to Friendship Force can be obtained from its we Dates & Times: November 24th, 25th and 26th 24th and 25th 7.15pm each evening 26th 2.15pm matinee and 6.45pm evening

GOT AN ARTICLE TO SEND US?

We have two family tickets to give away to Rainbows Bonfire Night extravaganza on Saturday 7th of November at Leicester Racecourse.

WIN A £25 AMAZON VOUCHER IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

All you have to do is find the ten missing words, fill in your name and address and send it to us at the address below.

N U V B L T A R C K A S T L C

L H E H S E F S I A P P L E S

E L R D A C O R N Y G I N U K

A K I U T R S U D O B R E S D

V B F G K M V L N T O C H A L

S T R E E S I E E B N D B T R

M A O Y S R C V S U F S O Y F

R L S U F A I A U T U M N N E

O F T L T R M E L S T O F U H

S X E G D F O S H I K F I S M

U I S C A U E T C H R A R A N

N H T L E A V E S L T L E R F

E K M I S R I F M T G R I M F

D A P P O L M B D E S A S E O

N G O E H A R N H J U Y L K C

AsFIND theyTHE at this time of year every HIDDEN WORDS TO little helps, find our 8 Autumn BE IN WITH A words and CHANCE OF one lucky winner will WINNING receive THE a £25 Amazon voucher.

GREAT PRIZE!

Find the 8 Autumn words andAPPLES send your entries to address below LEAVES - AUTUMN - ACORN HARVEST - FROST - TREES BONFIRE - APPLES Send your entries to: Your Local 42 Forest Rise, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester LE9 2HQ

Name

Tel:

Th Thro Throu be bee been co com comin thr thro throu

Address

Be Beg Begin pr prom prom Ri Rich Richa ofofth A £25 voucher will posted out to one lucky winner drawn at of the Gr Gre random. Closing Date 5th December 2016 Grey W War War, Please remember to fill in the section underneath this with your name and address and send to The Local - Unit 1 - South Leicester Ind. Estate - Ellistown - Leicestershire - LE67 1EU

READY TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A BOOST? Address: ..............................................................................................................................................................

Name: ................................................................................................................................................................

Me Mem Memb

Fu Furt

Furth We offer a variety of design and print services for .............................................................................................................................................................................. your business needs whether it’s business stationery, promotional items or workwear. We also offer a unique marketing service through our magazines DQG OHDŴHW GHOLYHU\ VHUYLFH *HW LQ WRXFK WRGD\ T: 0800 6446150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

Join us for a magical Christmas experience on board our Santa’s Sleighboat.

Meet Santa and his Elves on an enchanting journey along the Grand Union Canal.

SATURDAY 3RD - SUNDAY 18TH DECEMBER 2016 Peter le Marchant Trust Canalside Moorings Beeches Road Loughborough, LE11 2NS

All types of Plumbing, Heating & Leadwork undertaken

.

ƓQG RXW PRUH EX\ WLFNHWV DW SHWHUOHPDUFKDQWWUXVW FR XN

10

Reliable, Local Plumbing & Heating Engineer

25 years experience

Contact Richard on Tel: 0116 267 1826 Mobile: 07515 486072

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

Line wins at Silverstone Formula 3 race driver George Line from Thurcaston splashed his way to pole position in streaming wet qualifying conditions on the Silverstone Grand Prix Circuit in the penultimate round of The British MSVR F3 Cup Championship.

Protect your home and belongings from burglars Keep doors and windows locked at all times - even if you pop outside to the garden or go upstairs Always lock doors behind you and remove the key from the lock Keep valuables, bags, cash and keys out of sight and keep them in a safe place Don’t leave the packaging from expensive items outside your house - take it to be recycled or put them in the bin Install a visible alarm system and security lighting to act as a deterrent

Starting on pole in the now dry conditions, Line had a race long battle with Robbie Watts, a major championship contender, to win by a tenth of a second, only to find he had 10 second penalty for a starting infringement, putting him back to 5th place. A very “unhappy” George.

Prevent easy access to the back and sides of your home with locked gates or fencing Make sure your home looks occupied by using automatic timer switches to turn on a light when it goes dark, even if you are just out for a couple of hours

Race 2, saw George on pole again. This time no mistakes. No one was getting past, despite the best efforts of three of the championship front runners.

If you’re going away, don’t advertise it on social media Ask a neighbour or relative if they could collect post and open and close curtains while you are away Register your belongings with immobilise.com

#lockuplightup leics.police.uk/burglary

Leicestershire Police

DID YOU KNOW WE ALSO OFFER A FULL DESIGN AND PRINT SERVICE? CALL SARAH NOW ON 0800 6446 150

He took the chequered flag and the win, maintaining his second position in the championship. The Championship now moves to Snetterton in Norfolk for the final round of three races where the three mandatory dropped races come into play, meaning that George has to score 24 points more than Shane Kelly to win the Championship.

If he maintains his current form, he could just pull it off, but it will be down to the wire.

No pressure then!!

READY TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A BOOST?

We offer a variety of design and print services for your business needs whether it’s business stationery, promotional items or workwear. We also offer a unique marketing service through our magazines DQG OHDŴHW GHOLYHU\ VHUYLFH *HW LQ WRXFK WRGD\ T: 0800 6446150 E: sales@openboxpromotions.co.uk W: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

11

In pain ? we can help

www.leicestersportsmed.co.uk Leicester Sports Medicine Clinic

132 Victoria Park Road, Leicester, LE2 1XD

Tel:- 0116 210 0100

Syston Physiotherapy and Osteopathy Clinic

Syston RFC, Barkby Road, Queniborough, Leicestershire, LE7 3FE

Tel:- 0116 264 0808

Melton Mowbray Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic

2/3 Old Dairy, North Street, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 1NL

Tel:- 01664 480 037

LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANT IN YOUR LOCAL AREA? ASK Accountancy offer a range of exceptional services to start-ups and established businesses. www.askaccountancy.co.uk or call our Mountsorrel office on 0116 235 2244

Problems With Your Feet?

Home Visits & Cropston Surgery

Ingrowing Toenails Fungal Corns Callous Verrucae

Johanna Partridge MCFHP MAFHP

Foot Health Practitioner CALL 0116 235 1971 or 0788 781 7370 Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals

A B ADCOCK

LANDSCAPING LTD Over 30 Years Experience Friendly Local Business

Mountsorrel: 0116 235 2244 Hinckley: 01455 266 106 Email: ask@askaccountancy.co.uk www.askaccountancy.co.uk

Specialising in:-

Temperance Villas, 154 Rothley Road, Mountsorrel, Leicestershire, LE12 7JX.

Martin Tibbles

PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES

Excellent references available Interior exterior

0116 291 0489 07855 412 945

Quality Workmanship Guaranteed 30 Yrs Exp.

Free estimates and advice given

12

Fencing/Gates

Decking

Block Paving

Turfing urfing

Gravelling

Driveways

Patios/Walls Patios/Walls

Small Tr Trees Pruned

For a fast FREE quotation Ring Andy on

0116 267 6948 / 0781 657 3461 24-Hour Answer Phone Worcester Avenue, Birstall

t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

VOLUNTEER CENTRE NEEDS HELP TO SUSTAIN GROWTH Syston and District Volunteer Centre (SADVC) is struggling to satisfy growth in demand for its community transport services.

The Centre provides a range of transport solutions to meet the needs of the elderly, infirm and/or rurally isolated members of the communities of Syston and neighbouring areas. These services help individuals to be as independent as possible, directly assisting them to continue to play a full and active part in family and community life and sustaining their independence, vitality and independence.

Drivers who are prepared to use their own cars, in return for a generous mileage allowance, and who can offer anything from an hour per week upwards, provide door-to-door personal transport to doctors, hospitals, dentists, hairdressers, shops, family and friends.

Others are needed to drive the small fleet of specially adapted vehicles to enable the Centre to organise group excursions to local places of interest such as theatres, restaurants, parks, shopping centres and boat trips and to fulfil group contracts for the local authority. Full MIDAS training is offered, free of charge, to anyone volunteering to drive one of the minibuses.

Every driver can choose to do as much or as little driving for the Centre as he/she chooses, to fit in with private or family commitments. The Centre always gives notice of their requirements well in advance. Drivers, as a group, enjoy regular opportunities to meet socially to relax and share experiences.

Drivers need to be good listeners, without losing concentration since, all-toooften, they are one of the very few people that the user has met and spoken to in the period since the previous journey!

Raise the Roof for the

Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance

A light-hearted concert, full of fun and well-loved songs and carols with

Singing for Fun

‌..and you can join in for free!

Saturday 10th December at 7pm

St James the Great

Church Hill, Birstall, LE4 4DN

FREE admission - retiring collection

www.SingingForFun.co.uk

Volunteer driving is a win-win situation. All drivers speak of the great satisfaction they gain from the experience. At the same time, they know, from the feedback they get, just how vital and highly valued Centre services are to the users.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer driver at the SADVC should contact Centre Manager, Mark Smith, Tel: 0116 2607 888 email: info@syston-vc.org for further details.

The Blue Santas are coming to town!

Leicester City Football Club and the Foxes Foundation will participate in the Santa Fun Run & Walk in Loughborough on Sunday 4th December. This means that entrants to this popular event will be able to select red or blue santa suits, and support a charity of their choice.

Over ÂŁ500,000 has been raised for local and national charities in the eleven years

that the Rotary Club of Loughborough has been organising the event. Thirty five  � charities benefitted in 2015, as 1,430 santas ran and walked the 5km course.

Â? Â?

“We have set ourselves a target of 2,016 participants this year� says Linda �  Thompson, the President of the Loughborough Rotary Club. “We also hope the event will be even more colourful for � ­€‚‚�‚‚‚ � � the spectators in the Market Place�

Â? Â?  Â? ƒÂ? ƒ„ …‚†€Â? †Â? ‡‚ € Â

Sign up now on www.santa-fun-run.co.uk ˆ � � � …�‚†‰ Š

Â? Â? ‹ Â?  ˆ Â? Â? Â? Â? ÂŒ ‹ ŠÂ

t: 0800 6446 150 •

 Ž� Ž   e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

13

30

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-NOVEMBER 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

GRAFFITI – Art or Vandalism?

Norman Griffiths takes a long look at Short Street

I

F YOU ARE one of the many who catch the bus into Leicester you may well walk from St Margaret’s bus station up Short Street towards the centre.

One side of this narrow street has the rather ugly backs of the Churchgate shops and bars, the other a boarded development site.

Pretty grim.

But recently the graffiti artists arrived and nobbled the whole street from end to end, so it’s now a chaotic blaze of colour. One of the works is less abstract than the rest and most striking. But is it Art or Vandalism?

Some graffiti is very creative, but often it’s in the wrong place, though perhaps not in this instance of a depressing urban landscape. Back in 2013 Leicester City Council spent nearly £100,000 to clean off the work of two graffiti writers and offered a £500 reward to help track the culprits.

Last year ITV news spoke to a Leicester graffiti artist called Ample Aerosolicz who came from a one parent family and difficult circumstances. His mother suffered from a brain tumour when he was 5-years-old and was unable to work after three operations. He started graffiti when he was about 12 years old, attracted by the notoriety and adolescent rebellion.

By the time he was 17 he had just started to get into the more arty side of graffiti, doing full colour pieces, but the trouble became too much so he ultimately gave it

14

up. He retained his interest and a few years later started painting again for about 2 years as a hobby, learning and trying to increase his skills and to show a positive aspect to graffiti.

“It was about this time that I was made redundant from work in the engineering industry which was quite upsetting,” he said “and after about 6-9 months of being out of work I decided to make a business out of it. Since then, it’s gone from strength to strength over the past 4-5 years. I’ve done various commissions. The work I do with various youth groups provides the opportunity to teach children a positive view of Graf, showing that it’s a good form of expression, and

that it can brighten up run down areas.”

It’s certainly brightened up Short Street though the designs won’t be to everyone’s taste. “This is a privately owned site which was previously subject to lots of graffiti, some of it obscene, and our graffiti team had lots of complaints from retailers near by,” explained a spokesperson for Leicester City Council. “The owner has agreed for it to be used as a legal site for graffiti and I’m told there are far fewer instances of the other type of graffiti in the area now, and our graffiti team has had no complaints about the street’s new look. Therefore I think we can say that there is a place for this sort of street art, as long as the owner of the site concerned has given their consent for it, and in this case it has brightened up part of the city that was previously subject to ad-hoc and obscene graffiti.” So at this site it’s not considered vandalism.

Emma Fitzpatrick, current Chair of the prizewinning Leicester Sketch Club, likes graffiti if there is artistic skill involved and it is in a run down area. “It can add beauty and vitality to a depressing area. Leicester needs more visual stimuli,” she added.

Mark Wilde, who runs watercolour classes locally believes most street artists would not graffiti a listed building but would consider a dull, uninspiring wall in a back alley as usually fair game. The artists can still can get arrested doing it but this is probably part of the excitement. “Street art is pretty much accepted now as a legitimate art form,” he added. “Many

cities are commissioning artists to decorate walls in grey urban areas.

Loughborough commissioned a huge street artwork above the market area and then, strangely, ordered another artist’s work to be removed from another area, even though the shops and residents on the street supported the art staying. So it’s not very clear what’s allowed and what isn’t, legally.”

Commenting on the portrait parts of the graffiti on Short Street he said “Those are striking images indeed. I think that these were done freehand, while some artists, like Banksy and me, use stencils.

Many of the freehand artists don’t think much of the stencil artists as they see theirs as a purer art.”

So it seems quality work in the right environment can be an asset and brighten a dull urban landscape. But in the wrong place even the best may earn the tag ‘Art and Vandalism.’

You can see the ITV report on Ample and his work with young people in Braunstone at http://www.itv.com/news/ central/2015-06-19/meet-theleicester-graffiti-artist-paintingthe-city (or just Google itv graffiti Leicester).

“I would rather show them how to express themselves with a can of paint rather than them going out and expressing themselves with knives or getting into trouble,” Ample said. “If it gives kids something to do and gets them off the streets I don’t think that’s a bad thing.”

It’s hard to disagree with that sentiment, but what do you think?

, DOZD\V SXW LQ D IXOO HLJKW KRXUV DW ZRUN 6SUHDG RXW RYHU WKH FRXUVH RI WKH ZHHN t: 0800 6446 150 • e: yourlocal@openboxpromotions.co.uk • w: www.openboxpromotions.co.uk

R

The Easy Way to the Perfect Home Office or Fitted Bedroom 10 Year No-Quibble Guarantee

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

MOT YOUR CAR IN BIRSTALL We offer exceptional levels of expertise and service and we have the very latest diagnostics equipment.

All at a fraction of dealer costs.

ALL MAKES AND MODELS - MINI & SAAB SPECIALIST

MOT Your Car For Only

£30.00

Coupon Valid Until 31/12/2016 - “local”

MOT ONLY £20 When Booked With A Full Service ANY FULL SERVICE Coupon Valid Until 31/12/2016 - “local”

CUT OUT THESE VOUCHERS TO USE NEXT TIME YOUR CAR IS DUE FOR IT’S MOT

Bond Street Car Service 8 Coal Cart Road, The Interchange, Birstall, Leicester LE4 3BY OPENING TIMES Mon - Fri 8am - 5.30pm - Sat 8.30am - 12.30pm - Sun Closed

0116 262 7787

Email: service@bondstreetcarservice.com Website: www.bondstreetcarservice.co.uk

BRADGATE PARK

Christmas Fair

SATURDAY 3rd & SUNDAY 4th DECEMBER 2016 10.00am to 4.00pm Newtown Linford

Arts & Crafts, Local Produce, Christmas Gifts, Refreshments, Famous Bradgate BBQ and much more!

Under cover in marquees as well as outdoors

NEW STALLHOLDERS VERY WELCOME! Please contact Lynda Taylor at the Estate 2IƓFH IRU IXUWKHU GHWDLOV ERRNLQJ IRUP

Tel: 0116 236 2713 ZZZ EUDGJDWHSDUN RUJ (VWDWH RIƓFH#EUDGJDWHSDUN RUJ