Soarvalley septoct13 issuu

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Barrow, Quorn, the Wolds, Su on Bonington & Hathern Edi on 20,000 copies delivered by Royal Mail & GPS Tracked Distribu on team every two months

This edi on delivered in September by Royal Mail to all 6,086 addresses in LE12 8: Barrow upon Soar, Quorn, Walton on the Wolds, Woodhouse Eaves, Woodhouse and Swithland, plus 3090 addresses by GPS Tracked Distributors in Hathern, Su on Bonington, Zouch, Burton on the Wolds, Long Wha on, Hoton, Cotes, Prestwold, Normanton & Stanford on Soar plus further copies available in libraries, pubs, surgeries, tourist informa on centres, newsagents, Great Central Railway sta ons and major places of interest.

Issue 18 Sept/October 2013

Priceless

Country Walk Recipes Puzzles What’s On Business Features Trades and Services

Next month’s edi on delivered in October by Royal Mail to all 7,274 addresses in LE12 7: Sileby, Mountsorrel, Seagrave and Cossington, plus 3600 addresses

by GPS Tracked Distributors in Rothley plus further copies available in libraries, pubs, surgeries, tourist informa on centres, newsagents, Great Central Railway sta ons and major places of interest

New places now available for September

Celebrating 10 Years of Success! www.soarvalleylife.co.uk Copy deadline for October Tuesday 24th September

See page 23 for feature

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The March of Progress There seems to exist a paradox with progress. Certainly there are polarised viewpoints, opposing camps, if you like, especially when you throw in the climate change argument that suggests it’s all our fault with our insa able appe te for burning energy.

Nedd Ludd, born and bred on the fringes of our own Soar Valley lent his name to the pioneers of progress halters, smashing stocking frames by the score in the hope of preserving jobs and stopping the march of progress.

Whilst looking up a few interes ng facts for the feature I was wri ng for Mellee Crea ons (Page 13) I discovered that patents for a mechanised sewing machine were taken out some 50 years before its introduc on. But the inventor chose not to develop his ideas because he felt it would lead to mass unemployment and inevitable poverty. But the reality was, when Isaac Merri Singer introduced his falling shu le locks tch treadle sewing machine in the second half of the 19th century, within twenty years many mes more people were employed in clothing manufacture worldwide than ever before. Clearly there were many factors brought to bear on that massive rise, but in no way did the mechanisa on of sewing bring about unemployment ­ exactly the opposite in fact!

Sure, not all progress has the same effect, but most of it does. As I see it, mechanisa on, automa on, and technology help people make things more efficiently.

Efficiency lowers costs, lower priced products create bigger markets, bigger markets mean more sales, more sales means more jobs, more jobs means more people with money to spend, more people… and so on.

Our front cover photo this month is a demonstra on that took place at this year’s Rempstone Steam & Country Show, showing how, about fi y years ago, grain was separated from stalks and husks and hay and straw bales were made, all in the same con nuous opera on. There were nine people involved at the me I took the photo.

Before the inven on of the threshing machine half the village would have come to help at harvest me. Today, massive powerful combine harvesters driven by one man do the same job in a quarter of the me. Progress? You decide…

Meanwhile, your Soar Valley Life progresses; we have seen back to back record months, more adver sers with each issue, more features, more pages, more interest and now more copies through doors ­ this month goes to LE12 5 in the north of our region and next month into LE7 7 in the south, making a combined distribu on of more than 20,000! Oh yes, and for the first me ever, we are using the very latest technology to make sure Soar Valley Life goes exactly where we say it does.

Our core distribu on will s ll be handled by the Royal Mail un l December, but our new areas will be delivered by teams of distributors who each carry a small GPS tracking device, mapping and recording their posi on every few seconds on Google Earth. We think our march of progress is certainly a posi ve one.

Steve & Mary Johns

Editors ­ Soar Valley Life Page 2

Harvest Home – © Steve Johns 14th July 2013 Ransomes Threshing Machine and 1952 Carter Straw Elevator + Baler at Rempstone Steam & Country Fair Operated by Belvoir Vale Vintage Machinery Club

Contents Allergy and your Eyes Easy Sudoku Are you up to date?

Quiz – Musical Instruments Around Britain – Famous Trees A S tch in Time General Knowledge Crossword Curry, Spice and Things with Rice Phobias by Paula Reed Mind­full?

Pa ence strong Recipe ­ Mediterranean Fish Bake The Rolls Royce of Kindergartens?

Free Trade Meal Winner Recipe – Green’s Rocky Road Think quality, think freshness, think Green’s Costco Leicester All Change by Phillip Mark McGough Moss Solicitors Lend a Helping Hand Walking ­ Chater Valley Create Holiday Style in Your Home Spot the Difference Photography Tips by Rebecca Soanes Pure Movement Beginning of the Railway Boom What’s On Answers to Puzzles

4 7 8 9 12 13 15 17 19 20 21 22 23 26 28 29 30 32 35 36 39 40 42 43 44 46 47

Copyright © Fantas c State Limited trading as Soar Valley Life.

The Publisher reserves and controls all rights to the work presented in this magazine. Any applica on for any use of any of the work, features, adver sements, quota ons, photographs, images or other work within this publica on must be made directly to the publisher. No part of this publica on may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmi ed, in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher.

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

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Soar Valley Life Trades and Services Builders Merchants

John A Stephens

47

Child Care and Educa on

Kumon Maths and English Tutoring Parkside Nursery School Rothley Park Kindergarten

Clothing and Accessories Baby Gosling Happily Ever A er Brides Mellee Crea ons

12 41 13

Entertainment

A all the Way Discos Great Central Railway

7 24

Hair and Beauty

Hair and Nails at Home

41

Health Care

Ac vity 4all Charnwood Hearing Aid Centre Gareth Hudson – Foot Health Professional Oooh... My Feet Reed Wellbeing ­ Complementary Health Vintage Soul Studio Visual Answers Op cians / Optometrists Walk­in Physio Ltd

Home and Garden

16 26 23

A 2 Z Cleaning Services Absolute Window Solu ons Limited Acacia Curtains and Blinds AMW Kitchens Bradgate Forestry Firewood Bunny Appliance Warehouse Carpets of Choice Charnwood Tree Services DCI Kitchens Delta Aerials Doortronic – Remote Controlled Garage Doors Fab Plumbing GPS Plumbing & Hea ng Harrison Landscaping Hollyoak Wooden Floor Restora on Instant Cleaning Services KR Electrical Lakes An ques & House Clearance

14 28 9 21 19 20 5 15 39 38 39 27 48 18 6 45 41 14 9 16 19 34 26 14 10 14

Informa on is included in our What’s On sec on subject to space being available. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publica on is accurate, Soar Valley Life cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions and neither do we endorse companies or adver sers or their products and services appearing in this magazine.

Lo Storage Solu ons Mr B Property & Garden Maintenance Neil Philips Interiors Richard Watson Painter and Decorator SJS Professional Carpet Cleaner Soar Valley Aerials The Chimney Doc The Oven Cleaning Company Whelband Windows

8 7 34 15 11 10 11 27 25

Pet Care Woodside Animal Centre

7

Professional Services Bradley and Benson Computer­Angel CP Accountancy Ltd iPaq Repair & Parts James Dicks – Jewellery Cleaning Moss Solicitors Rebecca Soanes Photography

37 21 8 21 28 35 42

Pubs, Restaurants & Catering Green’s Loughborough Ltd Loulou’s Pancakes Rock ‘n’ Rolls Catering The Free Trade Inn The Queen Victoria The Vine Dining Room & Wine Bar The White Horse Inn Yasmin’s Indian Restaurant

29 11 7 27 39 43 40 17

Residen al Care The Abbeyfield

Sports and Leisure

Aqua Fitness Cyclops Cycles Physfit Gyms Pure Movement Yoga Yoga Classes

14 16 10 10 and 41 43 16

Motoring and Travel Charnwood Airport Taxis Deborah Grew Travel Consultants MVC Mobile Car Vale ng

45 16 33

Wholesalers Costco Leicester

email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

31

Page 3

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Allergy and Your Eyes by Mohammed Bhojani

Seasonal Allergy is a common condi on affec ng 1 in 4 people in the popula on of Europe; it is a growing problem with itchiness, redness and tearing of the eye, o en combined with a runny nose and can be especially problema c for the 4 million plus contact lens wearers in the UK...

Those with a history of eye allergies have a higher level of contact lens­related irrita on, causing many to use eye drops more o en, use their contacts less frequently, or switch back to glasses. But by the use of the right type of contact lens, together with the correct medica on, many allergy sufferers should be able to successfully wear contact lenses, even through the worst allergy season.

Advice and ps on how to increase the likelihood of successfully wearing your contact lenses even if you suffer from allergies: • Daily disposable contact lenses are ideal for some people with eye allergy. Apart from convenience, they minimise the likelihood of any irritants binding to the lens or the need to use contact lens solu ons that may contain preserva ves.

• If solu ons are used your optometrist can advise you on using a cleaning system that is preserva ve free.

• Never sleep in your contact lenses as the build up of irritants is most likely to occur at this me especially with extended wear contact lens wearers.

Page 4

• At peak mes of the allergy season consider wearing your lenses ‘part me’ and make sure you have a back up pair of glasses.

• Do not rub or scratch your eyes as this can make things worse. Using preserva ve­free ar ficial tears or an allergy drops as advised by your optometrist will help.

• Check pollen levels every day in summer and try to determine the type of pollen that causes you a problem.

• Try taking oral an histamines available from a pharmacy ­ but discuss this with your pharmacist or GP as some can have side effects including drowsiness.

• If your eyes do become red, remove your contact lenses and seek professional advice from your optometrist or GP. O en a cold compress over the eyes can give immediate comfort and relief.

Mohammed Bhojani BSc (Hons) MC Optom is the principal optometrist at Visual Answers Op cians based in Quorn 01509 414151 and Barrow upon Soar 01509 416800 near Loughborough.

VisualAnswers.co.uk

Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:07 Page 5

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Good choice of rugs always available in store

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Page 7

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Are you up to date?

HM Revenue & Customs are running a campaign

CP Accountancy Ltd

un l 15 October 2013 called “My Tax Return Catch Up” to encourage tax payers to submit any outstanding self assessment income tax returns for any year up to 2011/12...

If you wish to join the campaign you can do so by

End of year accounts, Bookkeeping, VAT, PAYE, CIS, and Tax Returns for Sole-traders, Partnerships and small Limited Companies

no fying HM Revenue & Customs: either complete the no fica on form on their website and submit

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Lazarus Court, Woodgate Rothley, Leicestershire LE7 7NR

them. Any outstanding returns must be submi ed ­ and the tax and na onal insurance due must be paid ­ before 15 October 2013.

Tel: 01162 303 973 Mobile: 07749 650129 Email: info@cpaccountancyltd.co.uk

By joining the campaign it is believed that it will increase your chances of saving a higher penalty being imposed upon you ­ based on behaviour ­ and also avoid an es mate being issued to you in respect of tax you may owe.

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Quiz ­ Musical Instruments 1. What is the name of the long plas c horn that came to worldwide a en on during the 2010 FIFA World Cup with many supporters blowing on one to produce a loud monotone sound?

2. Which musical instrument features on the Guinness logo?

3. Jazz musician Charlie Parker is best known for playing which musical instrument?

4. Consis ng of two metal strips bound around a co on tape reed, a swazzle is an instrument that is held in the mouth and tradi onally used to provide the voice of which character?

5. How many black keys are there for every eight white keys on a piano?

6. Which famous person popularised musical instruments called the wobble board and the stylophone?

7. How many strings are there in total on the four instruments that make up a standard string quartet?

8. Who famously set his guitar on fire at the 1967 Monterey Pop Fes val?

9. Which musical instrument features a part called a chanter, which the player of the instrument would use to create the melody?

10. Which musical instrument has a name that roughly translates as “jumping flea”?

Answers on page 47

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Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

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Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 11

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Around Britain 5 Famous Trees 1. Boscobel, Shropshire ­ Boscobel House in Shropshire was once home to The Royal Oak, the tree in which Charles II hid whilst fleeing from the Roundheads a er the Ba le of Worcester in 1651. The original tree was destroyed in the 18th century, but one of its descendants, now 300 years old, stands in its place.

2. For ngall, Perthshire ­ A yew tree in the Perthshire village of For ngall is almost certainly the oldest tree in Europe, with es mates of its age reaching a staggering 5,000 years old – it would already have been 1,000 years old when the Pyramids were built.

3. Ha ield, Her ordshire ­ On 17 November 1558, Elizabeth Tudor was sat beneath an oak tree in the gardens of what is now Ha ield House when she received news that her sister Mary had died, and that she was now Queen of England. The tree, now known as the Queen Elizabeth Oak, is found on the Ha ield coat of arms.

4. Runnymede, Berkshire ­ King John signed the Magna Carta beneath the Ankerwyke Yew in Runnymede, Berkshire, in 1215. It is also thought that the tree served as a mee ng place for Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn in the 1530s.

5. Southwell, No nghamshire ­ The first Bramley apple was grown in Southwell in No nghamshire from a seed planted by Mary­Ann Brailsford in 1809. The apple takes its name from Ma hew Bramley, a local merchant who bought the garden containing the tree in 1846. © Taken from The Bri sh Isles: A Trivia Gaze eer by Paul Anthony Jones, out now.

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email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 13

A S tch in Time…

The first use of a needle­type device to bind two pieces of material together was most likely during the Stone age ­ Palaeolithic period ­ and was probably made from animal bone which would have been honed and sharpened on a stone...

The eyed needle appeared in the fourteenth century and the first metal needle about a century a er that.

Sewing machine patents began to be applied for towards the end of the 18th Century, but it would take another hundred years before the first really successful locks tch sewing machine transformed sewing into the fast­s tch mechanised process we s ll use today. The most famous of these was the American made Singer Sewing Machine, and up un l about thirty or so years ago, most homes possessed one.

Melanie Russell of Mellee Crea ons, recently moved to Barrow upon Soar with her partner, has had a life long love of sewing. “Ever since I was a li le girl I’ve loved making Old cushion renewed clothes, cushions, rugs ­ anything with a needle and thread, really. My partner and I are keen ballroom dancers and I make dresses for myself and Felt wall decora on friends who dance. I get a real buzz out of making something useful from something that Picture from scraps would otherwise be thrown away. From something old I Apron make something new; I’ve made from pictures and wall decora ons old from unused tea towels, kitchen cushions from curtains, aprons curtains from tablecloths. I do a lot of embroidery, crea ng colourful designs on otherwise bland garments and I am an expert at clothes altera ons.” Just a few of the clever ideas which Melanie has turned into reality are Singer Sewing Machine pictured here. circa 1930s 50s jive dance dress

Mellee Creations

Dressmaking Vintage recreations Clothing alteration service Soft furnishings Mellee Creations is owned and run by Melanie Russell, who offers her considerable wealth of needlework knowledge and experience to clients looking for something that will reflect their individual style As a passionate professional with a life long love of textiles, you can be assured all items will be beautifully hand crafted, combining her unique creativity with finest attention to detail

Tel 01509 769772 Mob 07841 647568 www.melleecreations.co.uk

Melanie Russell brings flair and creativity in traditional needlework to deliver truly stunning and unique designs for you and your home.

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Page 13

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Page 14

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 15

General Knowledge Crossword

Across 1 Integers (6)

7

Member of an ancient Jewish sect around the me of Christ (8)

8

Hawaiian garland of flowers (3)

9

Fluid in the mouth (6)

10 Shared on­line journal (4)

11 Song used to praise the Deity (5)

13 Dog of mixed breed (7)

15 Dogma sm (7)

17 Yellow fossil resin (5)

21 Organs of locomo on and balance in fishes (4)

22 Dark brownish­red colour (6) ©puzzlepress.co.uk

23 Sweet potato (3) 24 Ribbon­like intes nal parasite (8)

Down 1 Small measure (usually of food such as custard) (6) 2 Japanese woman trained to entertain men (6) 3 Country, capital Madrid (5) 4 Principal bullfighter (7) 5 Military knapsack (6) 6 Oil used as fuel in lamps (8) 12 Curved oriental sword (8) 14 Deep red (7) 16 Pearl­producing shellfish (6) 18 Mythical monster said to live in watery places like swamps (6) 19 Drill used to shape or enlarge holes (6) 20 Formal school or college balls held at the end of a year (5)

25 Sharpshooter (6)

Answers on page 47

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Page 16

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 17

Curry, Spice and things with Rice Not to men on eight varie es of Nan, papadums, pakora, chutney, chapa and more...

Today it is es mated that there are more than 8,000 Indian restaurants in the UK which together employ more than 70,000 people and generate in excess of £2 billion per annum.

In recent years Bangladeshi/Bri sh recipes like Chicken Tikka Masala have become ever more popular. Sta s cs show that almost one in seven of us choose a kka masala dish as our first choice in restaurants, although there’s no real standard recipe and it can vary from hot to creamy and red to green.

But, did you know that the recipe was most likely to have been invented here? Top food writer Charles Campion refers to Chicken Tikka Masala as a dish invented in London in the seven es so that the ignorant could have gravy with their chicken kka! Several different chefs have laid a claim to the inven on but none with any evidence to support it, so the

lamb korma. Yasmin’s owner, Abdul, asked that if we could wait a li le while his chef would cook it specially for us. All this for only £8.95! I defy any one to find be er value anywhere.

And their take­away customers also praise them:

Chicken Tikka Masala served with Nan

by Yasmins of Sileby

mystery will have to remain.

But there’s no mystery at Yasmins Bangladeshi Tandoori and Bal Restaurant, in Sileby. Every Monday evening you can sample any number of dishes, buffet style, together with starters, sundries and rice. It’s the best way I know to discover what you like ­ and when you find it you can go back for more! The first Monday Mary and I ate there, chicken kka masala held pride of place with lots more dishes to choose from ­ but not Mary’s favourite

Keith from No ngham says, “Yasmins never fails to provide a great service.

The food is fabulous and the service is fantas c. I use this restaurant a lot as it is hard to find a curry that I like and these guys never disappoint.” Mark in Leicester says, ”Brilliant food and fast delivery. Well worth the money!” And from Robert & Tina of Leicester, “Great service with a welcoming smile. All staff including the delivery driver were dressed in smart suits. Great tas ng food worth every penny!”

With a 5 star hygiene ra ng too what more could you want?

Drink? Oh, yes ­ you’re welcome to take your own alcohol as well.

Contemporary Tandoori & Balti Restaurant Authentic Bangladeshi Cuisine Natural Ingredients • Cooked Fresh to Order

Take Away - Free Delivery

On all orders over £10.00 • 3 mile radius

10% Discount on all orders over £10.00 collected Credit Cards Welcome

Opening Hours Sunday to Thursday - 5.30pm to 11.30pm Fridays & Saturdays - 5.30pm to Midnight

*Buffet night every Monday (including bank holidays)* Wednesday special 4 course set menu for £9.90* *Bring your own alcohol

37 High Street Sileby LE12 7RX

Now booking for

Christmas parties

Tel 01509 815050 www.yasmins-tandoori.co.uk Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Page 17

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 18

Why buyy from us?

• Established family business

Our showroom display features a large selection of both built-in and freestanding appliances, including ovens, hobs, dishwashers, fridge freezers and laundry products.

And if that’s not enough, why not come in and see our wine room for an excellent selection of wine coolers which are powered up, full of wine and ready for a demonstration!

• We are the appliance specialists • Highly competitive internet prices and deals for multiple products available • Large showroom with many products on display and available for demonstration • Expert sales team offering great advice and product knowledge • Excellent reviews and feedback from thousands of happy customers • Next day delivery service available on many products

Bunny Appliance Warehouse, Bunny Trading Estate, Gotham Lane, Bunny, Nottingham NG11 6QJ

Tel: 0115 984 4357

www.appliancecity.co.uk ©NM

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 19

SPECIALIST IN

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

Central heating installations Boiler upgrades

Central heating power flushing

50 people died last year and 4000 were hospitalised due to unchecked gas appliances.

Landlord gas safety certificates

Don't become a statistic.

Boiler repairs Boiler and fire servicing

Bathroom installations

Have your appliance serviced today.

Cooker and gas hobs fitted

Telephone 0116 2694669

Mobile 07866 452155

Email: gpsplumbingandheating@live.co.uk 26 Oak Drive, Syston, Leicester LE7 2PX Phobias are the most common type of anxiety disorder and in the UK it is es mated that 10 million people have phobias...

For physical and emotional wellbeing

Complementary Health Practitioner REFLEXOLOGY Relieving stress using gentle pressure strategically applied to your hands and feet, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health - especially where conventional medicine has failed.

REIKI Holistic healing helping to integrate your body’s physical, emotional, mental and spiritual components by balancing your energy centres, stimulating natural immunity and promoting relaxation.

HOPI EAR CANDLING Reduces congestion in the ear and sinus area inducing a feeling of general tranquillity, composure and comfort.

EFT ‘Acupuncture without needles’ creating balance within your body’s energy system, particularly successful with addictions, weight, pain, anger management, severe trauma, stress and phobias.

Paula Reed is a member of the NHS Directory of Complementary and Alternative Practitioners All treatments delivered in my professionally appointed clinic in Barrow-upon-Soar

Telephone: 01509 415125 Email: info@reedwellbeing.co.uk Website: www.reedwellbeing.co.uk

Simple phobias are fear of specific objects or situa ons such as spiders, den sts, flying, enclosed spaces, heights, water or darkness. Complex phobias are more disabling and are o en associated with a deeprooted fear of a par cular circumstance i.e. agoraphobia and social phobias like public speaking.

Phobias are o en brought on by a past experience so trauma c that the body tries to ensure such situa ons are avoided. Phobias can also be learned from your parents when you are very young. A pounding heart, palpita ons, bu erflies or discomfort in the stomach, trembling, hot and cold sweats, dizziness, choking, shortness of breath, nausea, numbness and ngling are all symptoms that may be experienced depending on the severity of the phobia.

Almost all phobias can be successfully treated and cured although complex phobias o en take longer than simple ones. A variety of talking therapies are currently used i.e. counselling, CBT (Cogni ve Behavioural Therapy) and NLP (Neuro Linguis c Programming). In addi on there is a rela vely new therapy emerging: EFT (Emo onal Freedom Technique).

The way EFT works is a bit like ‘acupuncture without needles’ ­ it u lises gentle tapping of the fingers on the Meridian Energy Points balancing both mind and body by freeing up any blockages in the body’s energy system. EFT is a simple technique which is easy to learn and it o en works when conven onal therapies fail. It is quicker, the results are long term and there are no side effects. EFT is just one of the therapies offered by Reed Wellbeing.

Paula Reed: www.reedwellbeing.co.uk

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Page 19

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 20

Mind­full?

In this busy, busy world we live in, with all its stresses and pressure to get this done or that sorted and informa on bombarding us from all sides, it’s no wonder many of us o en feel overwhelmed by everyday life...

work ‘Four Quartets’ ­ “Time past and me future; what might have been and what has been point to one end, which is always present…” ­ then we had be er make the most of now! But how on earth do we do that?

It’s all too easy to become concerned because we ran out of me, le something unfinished, promised to get in touch and forgot to ring back, or start to worry about something we have to do being unsure how we’re going to manage.

Recently I met with Lyndsey, Holis c Therapist and Medita on Coach at Vintage Soul­u on at her studios in Syston. She took me through the simple, yet very effec ve Mind Calm technique. I have to admit I was a bit scep cal about medita on ­ most likely because I could never get my mind to slow down enough or to sit s ll for long enough to give it half a chance!

Research shows that many of us go through each and every day with our minds full of what we’ve done or what we have yet to do. Not many of us give ourselves the luxury of understanding and enjoying the present moment. Yet, if we heed the words of the great T.S. Eliot from his

Lyndsey explained, “Mind Calm is a modern­day medita on technique that gives people what we call 'peace with mind'.

Instead of having to fix, change and improve their thoughts, emo ons, body and life circumstances BEFORE peace is possible, Mind Calm can help people to live more in the present moment and engage with life in a more consciously aware way. By using Mind Calm people develop the new habit of thinking less and living in the present; o en becoming more aware of the 's ll and silent' presence of their inner consciousness ­ which is a key to feeling calmer, more confident and content in daily life.”

The session took about an hour and was one of the most relaxing and beneficial therapy sessions I’ve ever known. I came away calm and at peace; the sun was shining, ducks were splashing in the brook outside the studios and the world seemed a more orderly and peaceful place...

Vintage Soul Studio Meditation Coaching and Holistic Therapies

Meditation • Massage • Reiki • Reflexology Indian Head Massage and much more...

Contact Lyndsey Burton on: 0116 319 0455 vintagesoulinfo@gmail.com

www.soul-ution.co.uk Page 20

Visit www.soarvalleylife.co.uk for details of adver sing rates

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 21

Pa ence strong...

You can feel like an outcast these days if you’re not computer and internet savvy...

If you’ve not been brought up with the technology, learning to master an alien form of communica on can seem a daun ng prospect. Does switching the thing on ďŹ ll you with dread ­ an cipa ng accusa ons from it you don’t understand ­ or worse s ll, the frozen screen? And does trying to remember user names and secret ques ons or what password you used drive you to distrac on? Do

you feel the rage welling up inside as the beast beeps at you yet again preven ng you from opening this or saving that un l IT allows you to? And is the ďŹ nal straw, when you really have given up and want to escape from the darn thing, that sarcas c and ridiculous ques on, “Are you sure?â€?

Fear not, for an angel is near: Lena Dawson ­ Computer Angel of Rothley oers help at home on your own computer, laptop, ipad or tablet, to guide you through the maze of technology with understanding and

pa ence so that you can make sense of it all. You can have as li le or as much help as you need, working at your own speed in your own home having lessons which are fun and relaxed. In no me at all you’ll be surďŹ ng the internet, sending emails, a aching photos, pos ng on Facebook or even Twee ng ­ if that’s what you want! Lessons are per hour at mes convenient to you.

She’s only a phone call away... Call Computer Angel on 07703 653 979

-

-

" !

!

" - ! " "

-

Oooh‌ MyFeet ... is the answer to happy feet!

Mobile Foot Health Care Relieve the Pain and Discomfort of Corns • Callus • Ingrown Toenails • Verrucas • Cracked Heels ... in your home or by appointment with

Gillian Brierley DipCFHP MPSPract Foot Health Practitioner Vintage Soul Holistic and Beauty Studio, 8 Brookside, Syston LE7 1GG 07816 113259 or 01509 216155 www.ooohmyfeet.co.uk

Unit 33, King Street Buildings, George Street Entrance Enderby, Leicester LE19 4NT

A member of the Alliance of Private Sector Practitioners

www.ipaqrepair.co.uk

Call 0116 286 6447 FOR AN INSTANT QUOTE

Adver se in Soar Valley Life from ÂŁ28 per month plus VAT

Page 21

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Recipe

M Mediterranean editerranean F Fish ish B Bake ake Serves 4

R eady in 50 minutes minutes Ready This is a great one-pan dish full of fresh avour. MonkďŹ sh is quite pricey but the meaty esh is delicious and bakes really well, however you can replace it with cod loin, salmon steaks or thick pieces of haddock ďŹ llet if you prefer. Serve with a green salad and warmed ciabatta bread to mop up all the lovely herb and lemon avoured pan juices.

IIngredients: ngredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (choose a good quality fruity one) • 350g small new potatoes, halved • 1 red pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks • 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks • 1 green pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks • 225g small plum tomatoes, halved •

weighing about 150g) • 50g butter, softened • Pared rind and juice from 1 small lemon, plus extra wedges to serve • 1 tbsp fresh chopped oregano • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Tip Tip Replace the peppers with sliced courgettes, chunks of celery and baby button mushrooms, if liked.

Page 22

Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas Mark 6. Place the oil in a large non-stick roasting tin and heat in the oven for 5 minutes. Add the potatoes to the tin and toss to coat in the hot oil. Roast for 20 minutes, turning once.

Add the peppers and tomatoes to the roasting tin and toss to coat in the hot oil. Make a space in the tin and add the

to the oven for 10 minutes.

sprinkle over the lemon rind, juice and oregano. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and roast for a

cooked through and the potatoes and peppers are tender.

with the potatoes, peppers and tomatoes on four warmed serving plates. Spoon over the pan juices and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 23

The Rolls Royce of Kindergartens?

Rolls Royce began manufacturing aeroplane parts in Mountsorrel right at the end of WW2. By the 1970s more than 1,200 people were employed at the factory which by then was making parts for the RB211 ­ the most advanced jet engine in the world. The factory closed in 1994 and the land was sold to build new houses. The last remaining building was the Rolls Royce Sports and Social Club which s ll stands today and is now also home to one of our region’s best kindergarten nursery schools...

Rothley Park Kindergarten Manager, Narinder Kaur, showed me around and I must say, it’s a very happy, bright and safe place. It sits in two acres of land with open countryside on three sides and is set well back from the road and traffic noise. No danger here, with ample off road parking for parents and staff. There

are separate rooms for all age groups: from six week old babies to pre­school age ­ all on the same secure site. Every room has access to a secure outside play area. Narinder is a nursery professional having spent 29 years in child care.

“We’ve completely re­built the inside of the building to the highest specifica ons available in our inten on to offer the very best in Kindergarten nursery school care. I have parents who bring their children to us who I once cared for when they were of nursery age. I’ve been here myself since day one, ten years ago, and we now have 113 child care places in what is probably the best equipped nursery educa on facility in Leicestershire.”

An aerial view of the Rolls Royce Aero factory in Mountsorrel circa 1970

Well ­ having seen it for myself, I can’t think of a be er way to describe Rothley Park Kindergarten than the inference in the tle above!

Open: 8am - 6pm Mon - Fri 51 Weeks of the year Mon - Fri 51 Weeks

Celebrating Celebrating 10 10Years Years of of Success!

Success!

Rothely is a well RothleyPark ParkKindergarten Kindergarten isvery a well established private day care nursery established dayof care nurseryOur bright, spacious, air-conditioned celebratingprivate 10 years success. celebrating 10 years of success and classrooms are designed and equipped to provide quality childcare in a continuing to deliver an enhancing stimulating and learning environment. We offer 113 childcare places environment to allenjoyable the children and their for children between the ages of 6 weeks to 5 years. parents.

We provide quality maintained standards of such high calibre within the provision.

Nursery manager Narinder Kaur and her team of professional nursery

Our bright spacious and air conditioned classrooms designed and to equipped to practitioners deliver a second-to-none childcare are service tailored your child’s provide a quality child care provision, delivering a stimulating and enjoyable learning individual requirements. environment. We offer 113 childcare places between the ages of 6 weeks to 5 years.

Limited Government funding is available for 3 and 4 year-olds. We also offer full

From the beginning Narinder Kaur, the nursery manager togetherfor with or part-time sessions as required, depending on availability, allher children professional nursery practitioners continue to deliver a quality childcare service, under the age of 5 years throughout the year and during school holidays. tailoring to your child’s individual requirements.

A warmGovernment welcome awaits youis–available no appointments necessary as all new Limited Funding for 3 and 4are Year olds. We also offer fulland and prospective parents are invited to visit us at their own part time sessions as required depending on availability forconvenience. all children under the age

www.rothleyparkkindergarten.co.uk | tel: 0116 230 3888 info@rothleyparkkindergarten.co.uk | mob: 07813 021410 Rothley Park Kindergarten, Loughborough Road, Rothley, Leicestershire LE7 7NL Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Page 23

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 24

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 25

Manufacturers and Installers of PVC Windows, Doors and Conservatories Established 1991

Mark Whelband

All work carries a 10 year insurance backed guarantee

“Our goal is to delight existing clients and prospective customers�

T: 01509 211990 F: 01509 267806 E: whelband@btconnect.com www.whelbandwindows.co.uk Unit 6, Festival Drive, Loughborough, LE11 5XJ

Specialist window repairs sealed unit an , lock replacem d en Call us now fo t. expert advice.r

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 26

HOLLYOAK WOODEN FLOORING RESTORATION SPECIALIST

Sanding & Refinishing of Old & New Wooden Floors, Parquet, Planks, Mosaic etc All work is virtually dust free Colour staining & repairs undertaken Domestic & Commercial Established 20 years

Call Dean on: 0797 1978460 0116 271 5625

This Size of Advert

1/6th page 65mm X 65mm Full Colour With Free Layout & Design for only

£28 + VAT

Parkside Nursery School

Get your message through 10,000 letter boxes every month and free entry in our on-line trades and services directory

Telephone 01509 213329

Call Steve for details on

25 Charnwood Road, Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 2BN

email parkside.school@googelmail.com Long Established

01509 813125

Email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk www.soarvalleylife.co.uk

Qualified Staff Fantastic garden area Small and homely Competitive prices Term-time options available

Congratula ons to

James Walker of Quorn

whose answer, ‘In a Jug’ was the first correct entry out of the hat to the following ques on: “How do they serve a side order of chips at The Free Trade Inn?” In a jug, a mug or a pint beer mug were all judged to be acceptable answers and were included in the draw. James wins a three course Sunday lunch for two at The Free Trade Inn, Sileby.

Page 26

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 27

Food tastes better from a clean oven!

Doesn’t your oven deserve a spring clean too?

Let us restore your oven to near showroom condition!

Kitchens Fitted

Have your kitchen how you want it at a budget you can afford

SPECIAL OFFER

• Kitchens and worktops supplied at trade prices

from £38

• Having invested in your dream kitchen ensure that it is fitted to an exacting standard

Get your oven professionally cleaned 10% senior citizen discount

• Professional oven cleaning • 100% biodegradable materials • Local, friendly service • We also clean hobs, microwaves, extractors & even BBQs! Call now for a free quotation

07969 135210 or 0800 043 7861

• Worktop replacements, pelmet/cornice only through to full kitchen fits • Granite supplied and fitted • Gas Safe plumber Please call Andy Webb on

info@theovencleaningcomp.com

www.theovencleaningcomp.com Offer price based on single residential oven with average use.

This advert must be produced to qualify.

07904 987234 / 01509 414484

www.amw-kitchens.co.uk Where bespoke really means..

Your kitchen made to your order!

Graham & Lisa extend a warm welcome to all

Five ales on handpull + 1 Cider 1, 2 & 3 course traditional Sunday Lunch using local seasonal vegetables and all the trimmings.

Dog friendly

Regular Live Music nights Quiz Night every other Tuesday Darts ~ Cribbage ~ Charity Nights There’s always something going on!

See website for details

Light bites, daily specials board, main meals, starters and desserts every lunchtime

27 Cossington Road, Sileby, Leicestershire. LE12 7RW

01509 814494

Excellent selection of good value fine wines.

THE FREE TRADE INN

Find us on Facebook – thefreetradeinn.sileby Follow us on twitter @The_FreeTrade

www.thefreetradeinn.co.uk

Adver se in Soar Valley Life from £28 per month plus VAT

Page 27

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 28

Green’s Rocky Road Recipe One of Green's best sellers is our homemade Rocky Road; why not follow our delicious recipe – it’s sure to be eaten as fast as it flies from our shelves!

200gm dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids works best) 2 – 3 tbsp golden syrup 135gm bu er or margarine 100gm mini marshmallows (or chopped regular ones) 200gm diges ve biscuits Crush the biscuits using a freezer bag and a rolling pin un l they are in small bite sized pieces.

In a large saucepan melt the bu er, chocolate and golden syrup over a gentle heat s rring constantly un l no lumps of chocolate are visible and then remove from the heat.

Op onal ingredients: Raisins, dried cranberries or any dried fruit Nuts, cereals or anything else you think would be tasty!

James Dicks

Professional Jewellery Cleaning and Polishing Retired Lecturer in Jewellery from Burleigh College Loughborough • in your own home • for HALF PRICE • Normally £10 per item for limited time only £5.00 per item, minimum 10 items.

Additional items only £5.00 per item on same visit

HALF PRICE SPECIAL OFFER

have 10 items professionally cleaned and looking like new again for the price of 5

Make a party of it – evenings, weekends, Clubs, after dinner events 01509 558 912 07966 699 920

James Dicks Page 28

38 Francis Drive Loughborough LE11 5FD E: jamesdicksc3@gmail.com

Add the biscuits, marshmallows and any addi onal ingredients to the chocolate mixture and s r un l everything is completely covered.

Tip the mixture into a lined baking tray and spread out into the corners.

Cool in the fridge for around 2 hours.

Eat and enjoy!

Charnwood Hearing Aid Centre Ltd Lynne Leeming, MSc RHAD MSHAA

Your local hearing specialist 5 Stadon Road, Anstey Leicester, LE7 7AY Existing hearing aid users welcome Hearing protection for both children and adults Friendly and professional service

Telephone: 0116 236 6633 Email: charnwoodhearing@btconnect.com www.charnwoodhearing.co.uk

For people who care about their hearing Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm Wed & Sat 9.30am - 12.30pm

email steve@soarvalleylife.co.uk to book your advert

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 29

Think quality, think freshness, think Green’s Established in early 2012 Green's is a family run business offering handmade takeaway sandwiches and corporate and event catering…

Having run a successful business for the previous 20 years the Green family were already well known and commended within the Loughborough area. Finding themselves with a space within their establishment which a previous business owner had vacated, Danielle Finch decided that here was a ready made opportunity that with the right a tude and commitment the family could make into a success and Green's now welcomes around 500 customers though the door each week.

Business owner Danielle says, “All food and ingredients are locally sourced to support other small businesses.

Our aim is to offer excep onal ‘homemade food’ at a good price with a personal service second to none; every customer is just as important as

the next ­ without them we would not exist and I think it’s this winning combina on that has made our Loughborough­based shop the success it is today.”

Green’s is Loughborough’s finest sandwich shop and Leicestershire’s first choice for cold buffet op ons.

With their welcoming staff and inven ve menu they have built a credible reputa on within a short period of me.

They are the caterer of choice for Charnwood Borough Council.

Daily takeaway food op ons include filled sandwiches, wraps, panini, jacket potatoes and salad boxes. In addi on to their homemade buffet op ons they offer a variety of cupcakes ­ the perfect accompaniment to complete an event. They will create bespoke menus and themed events, a end to hiring of staff and special dietary requirements with all buffet services delivered to your venue with their compliments.

If you would like a taste of both the service and excellence in food that Green's offer ­ don’t hesitate to give them a call...

Sandwich Shop & Outside Caterers Green’s Loughborough Limited offer bespoke catering for weddings, corporate buffets, celebration catering and special events.

•• We believe that working together with our clients with a no obligation meeting ensures that every detail of your special day is covered.

•• We provide complimentary tasting of our menus and all food is freshly prepared and homemade at our Loughborough premises.

•• We also pride ourselves in using produce from local suppliers where possible.

Private & Corporate Events, Weddings, Funerals & Anniversaries Business Lunches & Public Special Events, Bespoke Food Hampers Think quality, think freshness, think Green’s 9A Great Central Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 1RW Tel: 01509 210200 Fax: 01509 210201 Email: greensloughborough@hotmail.co.uk

www.greens.uk.com Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Page 29

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Costco Leicester Costco Wholesale Corpora on operates a chain of Costco membership warehouses that carry quality name brand and related private label merchandise at substan ally lower prices that are typically found at conven onal wholesale sources. The warehouses are designed to help small to medium sized businesses reduce costs in purchasing for resale and everyday business use.

Costco currently operates 25 warehouses in the UK. Leicester was the 23rd warehouse which opened 1st December 2012, bringing 140 new jobs to the area working with the local Job Centre plus.

Costco warehouses present one of the largest and most exclusive product category selec ons to be found under a single roof. A few of the categories include groceries, confec onery, appliances, television and audio equipment, automo ve supplies, tyres, toys, hardware, spor ng goods, jewellery, cameras, housewares, apparel, health and beauty aids, tobacco, furniture, office supplies and office equipment.

Page 30

Costco is known for carrying top quality na onal brands with 100% sa sfac on guaranteed to its members.

Costco also features a fine line of quality products under its own Kirkland Signature private label.

The company has taken great care in selec ng products such as housewares, luggage, pet food and bedding, nappies, wipes, coffee, wine and snacks as well as a large selec on of fresh meats, dairy, deli products, fresh and frozen foods and baked goods. All Kirkland Signature products are guaranteed to be of quality or be er quality than name brands.

Costco’s Steve Pappas, Managing Director explains “Costco is able to offer lower prices and be er values by elimina ng virtually all the frills and costs historically associated

with conven onal wholesalers and retailers, including sales people, delivery and credit accounts. We run a ght opera on with extremely low overheads which enables us to pass on drama c savings to our members.”

Costco is only open to members. Members pay an annual fee. There are two types of membership ­ Trade and Individual. Trade members qualify by owning or managing a business. Individual members qualify by being employed in or re red in specific employment groups.

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 31

JOIN COSTCO

TODAY! Costco is a membership warehouse club that sells a wide selection of top quality brand name merchandise at low warehouse prices.

Speciality departments include Fresh Deli and Produce, In-House Bakery and Butchery, Service Deli, Cafe, Tyre Centre, Opticians, Fine Wines, Beers and Spirits, Electrical Appliances and much much more!

Trade Membership*

The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is ÂŁ20 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

Sign upfor for Sign up Membership Membership with advert withthis this advert and and receive receive aa FREE gift!

FREE gift!

Costco Leicester only Costco Leicester only Valid 30/11/13 Valid until until 31/08/13

Individual Membership*

The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is ÂŁ25 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

Join in the warehouse or online: www.costco.co.uk/membership

For further information, please contact our Membership Team at Costco Leicester on

0116 269 0730

*Membership Criteria applies.

Accepted methods of payment: cash, debit card, cheque or American Express. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made.

Costco Leicester Westmoreland Ave, Thurmaston Leicester Leicestershire LE4 8PH T: 0116 269 0730 E: marketing123@costco.co.uk Central Membership: 01923 830 477 www.costco.co.uk

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 32

All Change

Phillip Mark McGough

It is late August, and you can feel the world turning. From my kitchen window these past few days I have watched starlings ea ng apples straight off the tree, jostling and flu ering with one another for the best spot, like ungainly hummingbirds. I’ve seen starlings eat windfalls before, but never the fruit on the branch­ a rare sight in more ways than one, since starling numbers have plummeted over the past thirty years or so and the huge cyclone­like clouds of them that used to twist and wheel at dusk over the fields adjacent to my boyhood home in Nuthall are a thing of the past. All change...

Other birds, other flocks: Geese of many kinds are already arriving at A enborough Nature Reserve, a gunshot or so from my house in Beeston, and you can hear them flying overhead Page 32

at all hours, exhausted having made the journey from Scandinavia, Siberia, even Greenland; at twilight these noisy immigrants form a ragged, asymmetrical “V” against the sunset, like the ck to a maths problem, calling all the while to one another, a sonic version of holding hands: “I am here­ are you?” Migra on is one of the natural world’s great wonders, though looking up the word just now I am surprised to learn there is no universally­accepted defini on of the phenomenon.

There is, it turns out, only one universal: All change.

In the garden something has been digging holes in the shady flowerbed where a peach tree, long gone, once grew. Now there is a plum tree. Lots of li le holes, maybe a colony of grubs. Whatever it is, it has turned that part of the lawn into a fraying rug. I rake earth over the damage and hope for the best.

My children have been visi ng from France this month, and even as I write I see them gathering the plums, figh ng over whose turn it is to mount the stepladder. The plums are actually damsons, and this year’s crop is very good. I see buckets brimming with them already, and I remember that the damson was first introduced

to Britain by the Romans, who brought it from Syria. The damson was named for Damascus. Syria is in the news again of course, for unhappy reasons, which brings this all to mind. All change­ or just regime change?

In fact, not a few of our most familiar plants are actually immigrants, too, like those geese arriving from the north.

Researching this piece I discover that all 33 of our “na ve” trees are actually post­Ice Age imports, and even the DNA of the quintessen ally Bri sh oak indicates that it came originally from Iberia. So. The Royal Oak of England is a Spanish migrant.

What place for certainty in such a world? And speaking of things that come and go from these shores to Europe, and back again, soon my children will return to France un l they next visit at Christmas. Each me they return they are that li le bit bigger, that li le bit smarter, and that li le bit closer to adulthood. All change.

By the by, a robin was flicking around while I was raking over the earth in the shady flowerbed. Robins have a choice: They can migrate or stay put. In winter, many of our robins leave for southern France and Spain­ while thousands of con nental robins take their

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Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 33

place and arrive from northern Europe. There is a sexual divide here, however. It is mainly the females who migrate, and mainly the males who stay put.

The Christmas robin, then, is almost invariably a male, hanging on to his territory un l the spring. Deep in summer, spring is s ll a myth for the me being­ the earth is so superabundant it’s hard to imagine winter, let alone what comes a er winter. But it will come. All change.

I look up, and see the bu erflies having their final fling in the garden before autumn. Those

apples I saw starlings squabbling over are falling faster and louder now, and the Red Admirals and even the odd Cabbage White are landing to make the most of this li le suburban harvest. The entomologists tell us that the bu erflies, high on the sugar from windfalls, can become drunk. Perhaps this explains why they let me approach so closely, as I do now, and marvel at their beauty and symmetry.

And the red admiral, you guessed it, is also a migrant.

Those that arrive here in the spring from Europe will die soon

a er laying their eggs on the upper surface of s nging ne les. This means that the ones who delight me in my garden at the moment must be the children of these con nental travellers. In a few weeks they will be moving on to feed on one of the final flowers of the year, the ivy blossom, before heading back across the Channel­ though apparently there is an increasing trend for some to overwinter here in sheds and outhouses. The immigrant is becoming a na ve.

All change.

Phillip Mark McGough

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Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 34

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Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 35

Moss Lend a Helping Hand with their New Pay as You Go Family Law Service Are you involved in a divorce, separa on or a dispute regarding your children, but are worried about the cost of instruc ng a solicitor to act for you? Do you feel that you could run your own case but would like to have a solicitor to ask for advice when things get complicated?

In today’s difficult economic climate, together with the changes which came into effect on 1st April 2013 severely restric ng the availability of legal aid for Divorce and family cases, there will be an increasing number of people who wish to separate or divorce but are worried about or can’t afford large legal bills.

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Page 35

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Walking – Chater Valley Walk instruc ons 5 Miles

2 1/2 Hours

This walk is a li le further away than usual, but it really is worth the effort. A group of us took advantage of a trip organised by Graham from the Free Trade Inn to the Rutland Beer fes val, on July 20th. We travelled in an old Leicester City Transport double decker bus through this lovely part of Rutland. The landscape is stunning...

Find a parking space in Belton­in­Rutland; no toilets.

Pub the ‘Sun Inn’.

1 Start from the junc on of Chapel Street and Loddington Lane; take the narrow road away from the corner, right of the old chapel. As the road becomes a track, bearing le , turn right, through the narrow gate.

2 Walk up the wide grass track between hedges, bear le with the track, past a marker post and keep ahead across the field which may be under cul va on although a track should be visible within any crop. Bear right to the crossroads signpost and go through the gate.

3 Keep straight on along the more substan al track downslope; the track swings right, over the River Chater and le back upslope to the next crossroads signpost on the le .

4 Turn right and walk between the tall hedge and the fence, through the gap and up the wide track between hedges. Con nue through the dip in the trees and bear right between hedges again to the crossroads of tracks. Keep direc on up the more substan al track between hedges, passing le of the house.

5 Follow the road right, for a mile to the signpost and turn le for 110yds to the signpost at the wide metal gate.

6 Take the track right and keep direc on for a mile to the star ng point at the junc on in Belton. © Clive Brown ­ all our walks are compiled by Clive Brown who holds the copyright. You can order any of his 74 walking guides at: www.walkingcloseto.com. Or email Clive directly at walkingcloseto@yahoo.co.uk

Page 36

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Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 37

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Spot Ten Differences Answers on page 47

The White Horse Inn, 6 Church Street, Seagrave, Leicestershire, LE12 7LT

01509 814715

Opening times: Tuesday 6pm – 11pm Wednesday – Saturday 12pm – 2pm & 6pm – 11pm Sunday 12pm – 5pm Home cooked food served: Tuesday 6pm – 8.45pm Wednesday – Saturday 12pm – 1.45pm & 6pm – 8.45pm Sunday 12pm – 2.15pm

The White Horse is a great pub to visit all year round, whether you choose to enjoy the delightful views in our garden in the summer or relax by the fire with a newspaper during the winter.

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Page 40

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

Call 01509 813 125 or email editor@soarvalleylife.co.uk

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:08 Page 41

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Photography Tips by Rebecca Soanes There can be a lot to think about when trying to capture a good photograph and if we feel there’s too much we’re some mes put off trying...

This month’s p is about foreground interest and is one I use whenever possible as it makes a lot of difference to a shot yet requires very li le thought and effort.

A defini on of foreground interest would be: an element of the scene near the camera that leads the eye into the scene and gives it a feeling of depth. This can be anything ranging from a

Page 42

The first image is what you might be drawn to capture to start with­ a tranquil scene with some nice light and reflec ons on the water with some colourful boats.

shell on the beach, plants in a hedgerow, an open gate or a child walking along the start of a path. Here are two images with and without foreground interest to illustrate my point...

As men oned before giving a li le thought to what you could include in

It’s a lovely scene but with the addi on of foreground interest using the seaweed and the rowing boat with it’s oars ed by the je y, it gives you the feeling that you are already in the scene and all you need to do now is un e the boat, jump in and row away!

the foreground of your shot adds a depth to the scene. By stepping backwards, bending down to adjust the level you take it at or l ng the camera to include something in the foreground of the shot can make all the difference and takes just a few moments more to set up!

Anything of interest you’d like to see in the next issue?

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Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:54 Page 43

Pure Movement Yoga Therapy is a rela vely new form of therapy and although already widely accepted in Canada and the U.S. by many health disciplines, it is s ll an overlooked method when it comes to helping with condi ons that you might feel only mainstream therapy, such as physiotherapy, can help with...

Yoga Therapy offers a different approach to recovery and wellness, in that it takes into account the whole of your body, not just the problem area in ques on.

How the whole body relates, not just shoulders, hips and spine but also your breath and emo ons (mental and physical).

The movements in a session will enable you to feel well and invigorated. Some movements we look at are simple; others can be more challenging but only if you are ready for them. Have you tried to balance on one leg lately? Give it a go, without holding on to anything. Can you do it without holding your breath, swaying or gripping your belly or bum? Can you do it with your eyes closed? What did you feel? What did you no ce?

I came across Yoga Therapy as a result of a shoulder injury. I have trained in Canada with leading author and yoga therapy teacher Susi Hately. I offer weekly therapeu c focused classes, pre­natal classes, workshops and wonderfully relaxing holidays and retreats both in the UK and abroad.

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Page 43

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The beginning of the railway boom September 27th 1825: Opening of Stockton & Darlington Railway September 15th 1830: Opening of Liverpool & Manchester Railway

If there were such an event as World Railways Month, it would have to be September, when two of the most significant anniversaries in the history of tracked transport fall.

The Stockton & Darlington Railway was the world’s first thoroughgoing commercial passenger and freight railway specifically designed for steam locomo ves. It was officially declared open on September 27th 1825 and when the inaugural train – drawn by George Stephenson’s Locomo ve No 1 and carrying 600 passengers in coal wagons with a luxury coach for VIPs – completed the 26­mile journey to the Tees wharfs at Stockton it was greeted by a crowd of 40,000 and a 21­gun salute.

It wasn’t the world’s first steam railway, though. The first a empts at adap ng steam engines – by then a mature technology – went back to the late 1780s when Boulton & Wa ’s chief designer, Andrew Murdock, was experimen ng with high­pressure steam and building prototype miniature Page 44

locomo ves in his back garden.

His next­door neighbour, something of a child prodigy called Richard Trevithick, took note of what he was doing and when he grew up exhibited his own loco, Puffing Devil. That was in 1801, and by then other designers were already building steam­powered carriages designed for road use. The engines were too heavy for the roads though, so in 1804 Trevithick tried running an adapted engine (normally used to power a drop­hammer) on the tramway at Penydarren ironworks in Merthyr Tydfil.

Again, the rails, which normally carried horse­drawn wagons, were too fragile. In 1808 Trevithick exhibited a purposebuilt loco, Catch Me Who Can, on a circular track at a “steam circus” held in Euston, London. Everything worked but although many people enjoyed the ride, no­one was buying.

Trevithick gave up.

Mine owners didn’t, though. In 1812 a short line using steam locos opened between Middleton colliery and the wharves at Leeds. George Stephenson himself built two such lines, at Killingworth and He on before star ng work on the Stockton & Darlington.

Great engineer he might have been, but he wasn’t much of an organiser. The S&DR owned the line (which was only single track) but not the locos; instead, colliers and carriers paid to run their own trains, some steam,

some horse­drawn. The confusion was indescribable. A second track was built and the need for metables was soon discovered.

The Liverpool & Manchester, on which Stephenson and his son Robert also worked, was a very different opera on. The 35­mile line was intended to undercut the canal­owners who charged extor onate rates to bargees shu ling raw co on and finished tex les between Liverpool docks and the Lancashire co on­mills. It was two­track, steam­only, and properly metabled. The L&M itself owned and operated the locos (including Stephenson’s Rocket), and even invented a crude form of signalling. The line itself was a miracle of engineering: it had 46 bridges and viaducts, one of nine arches, the Wapping tunnel was 11/2 miles long, one two­mile cu ng was 70 deep and to lay the line securely across the 41/2 mile swamp, Chat Moss, the engineers had to sink hundreds of hurdles of heather and stone.

The grand opening was marred by the death of the Liverpool MP William Huskisson, who was hit by the Rocket himself, losing his legs and his life soon a er.

Nevertheless, the L&M was a wild commercial success – and the railway boom was on, not just in Britain, but around the world.

By Ted Bruning

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Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:09 Page 45

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Page 45

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What’s On in and around The Soar Valley: Compiled by Claire Stevens – Soar Valley Life events and news reporter

Diwali Delights

Visit the museum to take part in Diwali crafts, with activities including cards, rangoli, money envelopes and the chance to have a go at henna workshops all throughout the day. Refreshments are available with a £2.50 charge for activities.

Saturday 2nd November 11.00am to 3.30pm Newarke Houses Museum & Gardens, The Newarke, Leicester, LE2 7BY Contact: 0116 225 4980

stimulate ideas, limber up your poetic language and come away with fresh pieces to work on. The workshop is suitable for all levels of experience and you'll get the chance for some feedback on your work.

Free admission.

Thursday 3 October 2013 1.30pm to 3.00pm The Y Theatre, 7 East Street Leicester, LE1 6EY Contact: 0116 255 7066 theatre@leicesterymca.co.uk www.leicesterymca.co.uk/y­theatre.php

Folksy Free Machining

Scarecrows Abound Railway Day

Create a folk art style picture for framing or for a bag, cushion or laptop cover.

Choose from a wide range of designs to cut from colourful fabrics, use bondaweb to secure, then free machine embroider on top. Lots of support to learn whether you are new to free machining or already confident with a sewing machine. Bring your own machine or take turns on ours. £20.00 which is inclusive of all materials and tuition.

Saturday 9 November 12.00pm to 2.30pm Wygston's House, Applegate, Leicester, LE1 5LD Contact: 0116 253 2569 www.inspiring­art.co.uk

Fossil Handling Session

Go along on the first Saturday of every month for a fossil handling session in the Dinosaur gallery, with the chance to get up close to an excellent selection of fossils from the museum collection, free admission.

Saturday 5 October 11.00am to 4.00pm New Walk Museum & Art Gallery, 53 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EA Contact: 0116 225 4900

Everybody's Reading 2013

Join New Parks reading and Story Café groups for a morning with local performance poet Rob Gee, guaranteed to make you laugh out loud. Free admission but please book a place.

Wednesday 2 October 2013 10.30am to 12.00pm New Parks Centre Library, 321 Aikman Avenue, Leicester, LE3 9PW Contact: 0116 229 8200 newparks.lib@leicester.gov.uk www.leicester.gov.uk/libraries

Writing Workshop with Alison Dunne

A pacey workshop of exercises to get you writing. Find new ways into inspiration,

Page 46

Travel along the railway and see how many scarecrows you can spot, follow the autumn trail round the museum and enjoy tea and cake in station’s own onsite café or enjoy the picnic facilities. Includes free onsite parking.

Saturday 5 October 2013 11.00am to 4.30pm Abbey Pumping Station, Corporation Road, Leicester, LE4 5PX Contact: 0116 299 5111

Play with Clay

Let your artistic streak come to the fore and use clay to make your own work of art, then take part in a museum trail.

Refreshments are available and also free onsite parking and picnic facilities. Free admission but a £2.00 charge for activities.

Tuesday 22 October 2013 11.00am to 3.00pm Abbey Pumping Station, Corporation Road, Leicester, LE4 5PX Contact: 0116 299 5111 www.leicester.gov.uk/museums

Ghosts and Ghouls

Take a trip to the haunted hall in your spookiest outfit and meet the witches of the Guildhall! Join in the Halloween fun with scary quizzes, creepy, crawly crafts and face painting. £2.50 for activities Thursday 24 October 2013 11.00am to 3.30pm The Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester, LE1 5FQ Contact: 0116 253 2569

Heritage Sundays: Tours & Open Days

On the last Sunday of the month the Magazine, Leicester Castle and Wygston's House are open to the public, with visitors invited to explore the buildings on their own or book onto a guided tour with one of our expert Blue Badge guides. Heritage Sundays provide a wonderful opportunity to discover some of Leicester's historical

treasures right in the heart of the City that would normally be closed to the public.

Tours are not ideal for small children and suitable footwear must be worn, pre­ booking is essential, £2.50 per tour or £6.00 for all three tours when booked together.

Tour Times: The Magazine, Oxford Street, Leicester, LE2 7BY: 11.00am Leicester Castle, Castle View, Leicester, LE1 5WH: 1.00pm Wygston House, 12 Applegate, Leicester, LE1 5LD: 3.00pm Sundays: 29th September, 27th October, 24th November Contact: 0116 299 4444 www.goleicestershire.com

The Sensational 60s Experience

This is a brand new production for 2013, and for one night only all of the original hits performed by four of the most popular artists of the 60s. Starring; The Marmalade, Herman’s Hermits, Chris Farlowe and Steve Ellis’ Love Affair. Step back in time and relive the past during an evening true to the 60s when pop music was at its very best.

Friday 08 November 2013 Starts at 19:30 De Montfort Hall, Granville Road Leicester, LE1 7RU Contact: 0116 233 3111 dmh.office@leicester.gov.uk www.demontforthall.co.uk

The Mousetrap at De Montfort Hall

The legendary, record­breaking box office thriller celebrates its 60th anniversary.

Mousetrap is famous around the world for being the longest running show in the history of British theatre ­ with almost 25,000 performances. And to celebrate 60 incredible years on stage, it’s going on tour for the first time, with a star cast to give you a once in a life­time opportunity to see this masterpiece at the De Montfort Hall.

Monday 11 November 2013 Starts at 19:30 De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester, LE1 7RU Contact: 0116 233 3111 dmh.office@leicester.gov.uk www.demontforthall.co.uk

Want your business featured in Soar Valley Life? Call Steve on 01509 813 125

Soar Valley Sept/Oct 2013_Layout 1 28/08/2013 10:09 Page 47

Solu ons Musical Instruments Quiz Answers 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

The vuvuzela The harp Saxophone Punch (in a Punch and Judy show) Five Rolf Harris 16 (2 violins, 1 viola, 1 cello ­ all have 4 strings) 8. Jimi Hendrix 9. Bagpipes 10. The ukulele

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Catapult Chair leg missing Shoe laces gone Tie pa ern T­shirt colour changed Formula changed

General Knowledge Crossword Across: 1 Digits, 7 Pharisee, 8 Lei, 9 Saliva, 10 Blog, 11 Psalm, 13 Mongrel, 15 Bigotry, 17 Amber, 21 Fins, 22 Maroon, 23 Yam, 24 Tapeworm, 25 Sniper.

Sudoku Solu on

Down: 1 Dollop, 2 Geisha, 3 Spain, 4 Matador, 5 Kitbag, 6 Kerosene, 12 Scimitar, 14 Crimson, 16 Oyster, 18 Bunyip, 19 Reamer, 20 Proms.

Spot Ten Differences 1.

2.

3.

4.

Teacher's pointer missing Planet poster Freckles Teacher's hair

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FIREWOOD Seasoned Hardwood Logs Delivered

1,2 & 3 cubic metre loads available

FREE DELIVERY

throughout the Soar Valley Region

Contact Doug Paudy Lane, Barrow upon Soar

01509 816640 07976 291653

bradgateforestry@btconnect.com

www.bradgate-forestry.co.uk

Tree Stump Removal Service Available