Syston Town News July 2025

SYSTON TOWN NEWS

Grow Give Live – Community Planting

June has been an incredibly busy month for Grow Give Live –we have been enjoying lots of planting activities with different community groups. We visited Syston Scouts Beaver group to talk about growing flowers, fruit and vegetables, and the importance of pollinators – we really enjoyed seeing all their ‘bee dances’, telling each other where the best pollen was! The Beavers chose fruit and veg they wanted to plant and took home potted up seeds to see what they could grow. We have sweetcorn, strawberries, pumpkin, squash and beans all in the planters at the Scout hut, which should give a lovely harvest.

to pick and enjoy; please remember to wash it first!

The allotment sessions continue to be very productive; we’ve made a start on our compost heap, have lots of berries ripening, and pulled up our first harvest of (very small) parsnips! The station herbs are also looking very healthy – do snip off a bit if you need some for your cooking – it saves on the plastic you get when you buy them at the supermarket!

If you would like to get involved, please email us on growgivelivesyston@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/growgivelive

On a beautiful Sunday morning, we were joined by children and families from Little Miracles, www. littlemiraclescharity.org.uk, to get gardening at the planters near the Community Centre. We put in a wonderful display of flowers, and have strawberries, cucumbers, tomatoes, aubergine, peppers and chillies in the vegetable planters. All ripe produce is for the community

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Community Spirit Shines After Devastating Flooding at St Michaels and All Angels CE Primary School

Following the severe flooding that struck Leicestershire earlier this year, St Michaels and All Angels Church of England Primary School in Rearsby, part of the Rise Multi Academy Trust, has suffered extensive damage that has rendered the school site unsafe for teaching and learning.

The flooding caused significant loss of vital educational resources, with books and reading materials among the worst affected. However, in the wake of this adversity, the local community has rallied around the school, exemplifying outstanding generosity and solidarity.

Local businesses and organisations have responded with an outpouring of support, donating funds and resources to aid in the school’s recovery efforts. Most recently, Metric Services Leicester Ltd made a generous contribution of £1,000 to the school’s fundraiser. Managing Director Barry Wheeler visited the school to see firsthand the recovery efforts and meet with Executive Headteacher Neil Bardsley, who offered a tour of the site and an update on progress.

Executive Headteacher Neil Bardsley said:

"We have been overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness shown by our community. The damage to our school was heartbreaking, especially the loss of so many cherished books and learning materials. Support from local businesses like Metric Services has not only helped us begin to rebuild but has lifted the spirits of staff, pupils, and families. It reminds us all of the power of community and the importance of working together in challenging times."

The school’s PTFA (Parent, Teacher and Friends Association) added: "As parents, we were really shocked by the damage the school sustained during the January flood. We're really grateful that our school has been able to move to the local Syston school, but it isn't the same as being back at home in Rearsby. We look forward very much to being back in our own school, and are really grateful to the local businesses and community for helping to fund the rebuild and refurbishment of our school."

The school, alongside Rise Multi Academy Trust, is continuing its efforts to restore the learning

environment for its pupils and is encouraging anyone interested in supporting the recovery to get in touch or contribute to the ongoing fundraiser here: https://buff.ly/ OuJKkK9

For more information about St Michael & All Angels CofE Primary School, please visit https://www. stmichaels.leics.sch.uk/

NEW BARKBY WI

In a Back-to-Front June meeting for New Barkby W.I., Angela Montague, deputised for President Shirley Franklin, who was unable to attend.

Angela welcomed everyone and also Mr Bob Neill and his wife, Del, who provided members with a ‘bits and bobs’ quiz - items collected over time, which had had practical use in households from a by gone age (from 1940s and maybe earlier).

The objects were passed around for members to try and identify and listed on a quiz sheet. The answers were revealed later - no prizes though.

This evening, it was a celebration for New Barkby as the institute has been meeting at Syston Community Centre for twenty years, and that year (2005) Mr Neill had visited but at the W.I. Hall, which was in Maiden Street at that time.

The Competition winner for a useful kitchen gadget was Val Cobb with a modern jar and bottle opener.

The raffle prize, a Dahlia plant, was won by Cilla Lane.

Afterwards there was a brief session on W.I. business matters.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 2nd July, 7.30pm at Syston Community Centre when there will be a talk on ‘My life on board the Royal Yacht.’

All visitors are welcome to attend.

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Local Lady Turns 100

Local lady Rene May Berta turned the wonderful grand old age of 100 on 4th June, pictured above.

Rene has lived in the same house in Syston all her life, where she brought up her three daughters on her own as her husband sadly passed 62 years ago. She worked multiple jobs, from threading the ropes into parachutes for the health guard, to the BTH, the Wolsey, Kirkland’s in the canteen cooking for all the workforce, to the jewellery factory in Syston and many more over the years.

Luckily she still lives in her own home being looked after and cared for by her daughter Tina and son in law Nick.

She had a wonderful 100th celebration at home with her family and friends, she even enjoyed a glass of Prosecco!

87 year Old Climbed Mount Snowdon in Memory of His Wife

John Woodhouse formerly of Syston, climbed Mount Snowdon on May 15th, which was exactly 10 days after his 87th birthday.

Together with one of his daughters Andrea, who’s 63!! They made the trip in memory of their beloved wife / Mam, Patsy Woodhouse, who they sadly lost in December last year. It took them four hours to reach the summit and a further three hours to get back down!

Having done some research, it seems that he is the oldest British person ever to climb the mountain, which makes it even more amazing! A go fund me account was set up to raise money for Parkinson’s UK, and they have so far raised an amazing £1,058!!

We are all so proud of him and his determination to succeed in our Mam’s memory.

Mimi Henson

Friends of Barkby Road Cemetery

Hello everyone on this lovely sunny day. We are extremely excited to announce that we have been entered for the Green Flag Award and the Cemetery Awards at this present time. We will let you know when we hear anything.

The fountain is looking beautiful again now- thank you to the Eaton family who have adopted the fountain again this year.

The wildflower garden is starting to take shape now and is looking great, if you have any spare seeds, please

feel free to scatter them along the wildflower garden.

Some of the standard roses along the runways have died- these will need to be removed to allow space for the planting of new standard roses. We will try to contact the family who planted roses that have died to inform them of this action. If you would like to plant a standard rose, please feel free to contact Catherine Voyce at Syston Town Council to purchase one for you to dedicate to your loved ones.

As usual at this time of year the flowers are dying quickly, the winds are blowing tributes about, and it makes it difficult for us to find where they belong. We are doing our best to water, remove or to move them to where they belong.

Another heater has now been purchased and fitted in the waiting room. Thank you to Neil from Syston Town Council for sorting this out for us.

It is great to see that our wonderful Chapel is now being used more often for services. Flowers can be arranged in colours to suit you should you wish to hire the Chapel for a funeral service.

This can be arranged by contacting Catherine Voyce, at Syston Town Council on 0116 260 7150.

The Council have recently carried out a health and safety inspection on all the headstones in the cemetery. This has meant that a few of the older headstones were found to be unstable and have therefore been either staked or laid down flat on the ground. If, when you are visiting the cemetery, you find that your loved ones headstone has been laid down, this is the reason for it.

Have a good month everyone. Ros, and the Friends of the Syston Cemetery

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Tales From ThePlot

the 12 segment trays and put about four seeds in each segment. Iusually start them around March time, keep them in the greenhouse until they’re at the four-leaf stage, thenwith a dipper put them in the ground in clumps about six inches apart. You can just twist the larger ones out leaving the rest to mature: that way you can harvest right through the summer from just one row across the allotment, we love it freshly boiled.

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I’ll start with a confession: I complained bitterly that my parsnips had not germinated having tried to set parsnip seeds three times, and at the time of writing last month’s tales from theplotnone seem to have shown. Although it’s been dry I have watered them at least twice a week and all seemed lost - then we went away for a four day break and it seemed to rain every day (just our luck) but on returning it looks like my parsnips have all come through and I’m actually going to have to thin them out, success in the end!

Everything is looking quite good on theplot. There have been a few hiccups though,the flea beetle - little shiny black blighters, have given my brussel plants a right good nibbling. I tried spraying them with the usual tablespoon of washing up liquid in a spray bottle along with a spoon of rape seed oil - they all cleared off when I sprayed them but sadly the next day had returned so as a last resort I’ve had to spray them with a commercial pesticide, I only ever use it as a last resort but sadly needs must on this occasion. Broad beans look ready for picking, it’s been a good year for them and no sign of blackfly at the time of writing this, another bonus is all of my bean crops this year - runner beans, French bush beans, French climbing beans and some black climbing French beans are all from seed that I saved from last year so apart from my labour they are cost free. As I like to watch the pennies that’s a good feelingLOL!

I left some beetroot in last year and it’s now in flower so I’m hoping beetroot seed will also be free next year. I’m already picking this year’s and it’s a good crop and so easy to grow. I use

Potatoes look to have grown really well although I’ve not harvested any yet, otherplotholders have commented on how good the tops look. I always reply that it can be deceiving, it’s what’s underneath them that matters. Only time will tell.

Now July is a time of year that our plants need more water, soils that are rich in well rotted organic matter are the best for retaining moisture as the organic matter acts like a sponge. Mulches are also great for retaining moisture, when applied to already damp soils, mulches reduce requirements for water. I mulch everything with leaves, grass cuttings and wood shavings out of my chicken coop etc this not only means less watering it can mean less weeding! Water butts are an asset all year round, but especially so in the heat of summer, rainwater is far better than tap water so save as much as you can.

I never fail to be amazed by the amount of weeds that continually germinate and grow on my allotment, it’s a constant battle, hoeing twice a week helps. I normally grow some Sweet Williams for cut flowers to take home, this is the first year I haven’t got any, you have to set the seeds one year and they flower the next and I simply forgot to put any in last year.

Courgettes, outdoor cucumbers, tomatoes and sweet corn are now in and looking good. Although the risk of a frost has passed do still keep an eye out for cold nights, a combination of cold and wet conditions can be damaging to these young plants and set them back.

Thankfully we are now reaping the rewards of the work we have put in so far this year.

Richard Thorpe 15b Syston Allotments

Rise Multi Academy Trust Unites 25 Schools for Year 3

Pupil Charter Sports Day

Pupils from 25 primary schools across Leicestershire and South Derbyshire came together for an energetic and joy-filled Year 3 Pupil Charter Sports Day. The event saw hundreds of Year 3 pupils engage in a variety of sporting activities — from timeless classics like tug of war to exciting new challenges — creating a day full of fun, teamwork and friendly competition.

This year, eight Rise Multi Academy Trust schools opened their grounds to host the event, welcoming pupils and staff from neighbouring schools to join them for the festivities. Their

warm hospitality and willingness to support others perfectly captured the spirit of community and collaboration that lies at the heart of the Rise ethos. Rise extends a special thank you to these host schools and their staff for their generosity, planning, and support — truly going above and beyond to make the day a success for everyone involved.

The event is a highlight of the Rise Pupil Charter, a unique initiative that outlines key experiences every child should enjoy during their time in school. Designed to enrich education beyond the classroom, the Pupil Charter assigns each year group a different event or project aimed at developing new skills, confidence, and lifelong memories.

This year’s Sports Day not only offered a fantastic opportunity for children to take part in active, healthy fun, but also served as a valuable moment for schools within the trust to connect, collaborate, and celebrate their shared values.

Dave Ellison-Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Rise Multi Academy Trust, commented on the event: "Seeing so many of our schools come together for this special day has been truly inspiring. The Pupil Charter is all about broadening horizons and creating moments that children will remember for years to come. Today

was a perfect example of how fun, learning, and community spirit can come together to enable our pupils to flourish and succeed. A huge thank you to all the staff and pupils who made it such a success."

Rise Multi Academy Trust would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated staff who helped organise the day and ensured everything ran smoothly, and a big congratulations to all the pupils who participated with enthusiasm and sportsmanship.

For more information about Rise Multi Academy Trust visit https://risemat.com/

Understanding the Law around Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure which is tightly regulated to ensure patient safety and professional accountability. The law surrounding tooth whitening varies by country but generally focuses on who can legally perform the procedure and what substances can be used.

Who can perform tooth whitening in the UK?

In the UK, tooth whitening is legally classified as a dental treatment. This means it must be carried out by a registered dental professional, such as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental therapist, often under the supervision of a dentist. The General Dental Council (GDC) regulates the practice, and only registered dental professionals are legally allowed to perform tooth whitening. Non-dentists, including beauty therapists and salon staff, cannot legally offer the treatment using professional-strength products. Additionally tooth whitening treatment with a beautician, in not safe/legal. As the law says that only registered dentists, dental therapists, dental hygienists or clinical dental technicians working to the prescription of a dentist can legally and safely provide tooth whitening treatment. Dentists train for several years to safely offer this treatment. They can assess whether a patient is suitable for the treatment, whether there are reasons that they should not have it and they can intervene if an emergency arises. Someone who has done a short

training course cannot offer this treatment legally or safely. You may be placing yourself at risk of harm if you see someone who is not properly qualified and registered.

What should I use?

Products containing or releasing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide are regulated as cosmetic products and are restricted to professional use. Dentists may use or prescribe products up to 6% hydrogen peroxide, provided they have first assessed the patient’s suitability for treatment and ensure proper monitoring. If you would like any further information or to book an appointment, please get in touch with the one of the team at The Green Dental and Implant clinic on 0116 260 4604

Charismatic Professional Small Hall Boxer

On Friday 30th May the Stn was invited to meet Syston boxer Robert Walmsley (23 years), pictured above after winning a recent match, who began boxing when he was 11 years old.

He tried a few different places until after a break at 15 years he tried Carl Gunn’s Boxer Gym in Birstall and because it is small, it was less intimidating and he found it a friendly atmosphere so has remained there. He and his girlfriend Eve Snookes help run classes every week at this community gym.

He said: “It can be scary hard as a

child to walk into the big boxing gyms and see all the adults training. As they all look very big and so Carl’s gym is different. Its welcoming and safe.”

Carl has been a boxing coach for over 60 years, is a generous and friendly character. He is well known in the boxing world and is one of the few who have been a coach for that length of time. He is loved by all who have used his gym and the current youngsters are no different.

Robert, has a charismatic and wonderful personality also works full time in Syston, he trains six days a week both at Carl’s Gym and Infinity Boxing in Leicester. When we met, he was in preparation for a boxing match to be held in Loughborough at the NSC Arena on Friday 13th June. This period of training is referred to as Fight camp and starts eight weeks before the match. Robert fights in the 75 to 80 kgs weight category, so to get to this fighting weight he has a strict regime of what he can eat, how much to eat, how long to train, how much rest time and the amount of sleep each night. The premise is to build strength and stamina before the fight, so he is in the best fitness state he can be.

Robert and his girlfriend Eve Snookes, who also trains, take children’s classes at the Carl’s gym in

Birstall on Thursday 5pm to 6pm for under 10 years, the 6pm to 7pm Under 18 years. Then on Friday 6pm to 7pm for 10 to 18 years. The gym charges a membership fee of £5 for the year plus £1 per session for under 16 years and £2 for over 16 years.

They also run a Tuesday Sparing class for over 18 years.

SUMMER WORDSEARCH

Send your entry in by Tuesday 15th July to the usual address: Syston Town News, 55 Goodes Lane, Syston. LE7 2JL For children twelve years old and under only.

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The first three correct entries drawn out will be the winners of the competition. Find the following hidden words to win.

Picture courtesy of Conor Mason

Leicestershire National Gardens Scheme

July Open Gardens

A group of four gardens opens together at Wigston LE18 3LF on 5th and 6th July, 11am to 5pm. There are four gardens all within a 2-mile radius of each other, with something different to see in each garden: Vallenvina' 6 Abington Close - a small town garden featuring Prairie style scheme of Grasses, Rudbeckia and Verbena Bonariensis. There are Roses, Clematis and Honeysuckle, with lots of Pots, Hanging Baskets and Wall Planters.

Little Dale Wildlife Garden is all about the wildlife. A small wildlife friendly garden featuring a 'No Mow' lawn full of meadow flowers, three borders; including a newly planted perennial one, trees and large seating area to enjoy your tea and cake. Buzzing all Summer!

2A Homestead Drive - is a small secluded ‘garden with many trees, shrubs, evergreens, perennials, a small water feature and many, many pots. You will also find interesting artefacts and seating areas in each room to sit and rest awhile

28 Gladstone Street - a mature 70'x15' town garden divided into rooms and bisected by a pond with a bridge. It is brimming with unusual hardy perennials with collections of ferns and hostas. David Austin roses chosen for their scent feature throughout, incl a 30' rose arch. A shade house with unusual hardy

plants and a Hosta Theatre. Regular changes to planting. Opening on the 13th and 16th July 2pm to 5pm is Green Wicket Farm, LE17 4LR. A formal garden surrounded by open fields, there are many mature trees and unusual perennials. There is a range of colour-themed borders.

8 Hinckley Road, Nuneaton, CV13 6DU opens 19th and 20th July, 12noon to 4pm. A small south-facing garden with unusual perennials and climbing plants, a water feature and colourful borders.

The Secret Garden at Glenfield Hospital will open on 19th July, 10.30am to 3pm, LE3 9QP. This hidden gem of a garden is a 1-acre sanctuary behind the historic walls of a Victorian garden. Designed and restored with care, it provides a tranquil retreat for visitors. There will be multiple stalls and a plant sale, plus guided tours to explore the diverse plant species and delve into the garden’s history.

The National Garden Scheme donated £3,501,227 to our beneficiary charities in 2024. For further details on our open gardens, visit www.ngs.org.uk

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Little Dale Wildlife Garden, Wigston

The Rt. Hon Edward Argar MP

Member of

Parliament for Melton and Syston

Stn readers will recall my recent update on the process of local government reorganisation, following the Government’s decision to require all areas to move towards a singletier council, rather than the boroughs/ districts and county councils we currently have. Locally, the County Council, the Boroughs and Districts, and the City all submitted different outline proposals to the Government, which has now responded with its initial feedback. The Government has told the councils to put forward their detailed final proposals by 28th November, following which Ministers will decide which approach to adopt. The current outline proposals are for either a single council covering the whole county and another for the city; or one for the city and the current county split into two new councils, a north and a south. The different councils will now be seeking to consult locally, with parish councils, local residents etc, before they submit their final proposals. As they do this, for me locally one thing

remains very clear - that we must fight the proposal in the Leicester City Mayor’s plans to expand the city boundaries and undertake a landgrab of places like Thurmaston, Syston, Queniborough and the villages from the county, bringing them into the city. For me, and many I have spoken to, whether the final proposal is for a single, or two unitary councils in our county, the idea of the city absorbing our towns and villages is simply unacceptable, and I will continue to vigorously oppose it in the run-up to 28th November. Another issue that I know is of very real concern to local residents is planning and development, or in many cases locally, the risk of overdevelopment. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is currently passing through Parliament, and I have significant concerns about the way it seeks to reduce the role of local elected councillors in deciding some applications. Similarly I recently voted for amendments to the Bill that would protect high quality agricultural land from being turned into solar farms; that would protect villages from being merged into each other as a result of new developments, and would seek to protect the character and setting of historic villages from the impacts of new developments; and to strengthen Environmental Delivery Plans to provide for more effective and swifter

conservation measures to help protect our environment when development does take place. Unfortunately the Government opposed all of these changes, and they were voted down by Labour MPs, but I will continue to support measures that will improve the Bill, make sure local voices are heard, and that help to protect our villages and rural landscapes from unsustainable over-development. Finally, it was a real pleasure to join the Stn’s editor and others for the official opening of Sunlit Chemist in its new premises on Melton Road in the town. Many will be familiar with the pharmacy, run by Rajesh and the team, in its old location in Town Square, but just last month it moved into a state of the art new premises in Melton Road, refurbished to an incredibly high standard. I want to wish Rajesh and all the team all the very best in their new premises.

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to 6.00pm

St Peter and St Paul’s Church News

Heating Appeal Update

We have been overwhelmed and encouraged by our efforts in fundraising.Through the generosity of the people of Syston and our congregation we have raised over £26,000 which represents ½ of the total required and we will soon be able to make a start on the project while continuing to fundraise. If you can help please use the QR code shown here to donate what you can. Thank you.

We are grateful to @BenefactTrust for their recent grant of £2100 towards the project as well as to the Jack Patston Trust for their grant of £3000 which we can add to the sum raised so far.

Organ Recital

On Sunday 8th June we were treated to a very special organ recital given by international recitalist, Roger Sayer. Roger played music by Bach, Mozart and Handel before finishing with the Thunderbirds theme tune which sounded amazing played on the organ! Afterwards the audience enjoyed Pimms and nibbles, a perfect

summer evening. All proceeds from the event have gone towards the heating appeal.

Cream Teas

The summer of cream teas begins! 2pm - 4pm

Saturday 12th July - RJ Vocal group, a local choir will be singing.

Saturday 16th August - U3A Choir and VJ Day Anniversary Exhibition

Saturday 13th September - Ride and Stride

All proceeds from these events will go towards building our heating appeal pot. There will be forms in church if you also wish to sponsor a pew heater or something larger!

Weddings

Wedding season is upon us and in May we had the pleasure of celebrating our first wedding of the year. If you are interested in getting married at St Peter and St Paul’s Church or would like to find out more please do not hesitate to get in touch - Revd Ros 0785 157 3236.

Christmas Tree Festival

Future date to be noted 28th November to 1st December Christmas Tree Festival. Please email w.hardy147@gmail.com to register your tree.

Simon Bradshaw CC Syston Ridgeway Division

Dear Residents

I was elected on the 1st of May 2025 to represent Syston Ridgeway Division which is the whole of Syston Town area except the Avenues but does include Wanlip Village, since then I have attended many training sessions at LCC and now sit on the Highways, Transport and Waste Management Scrutiny Panel.

Despite a busy schedule I hope to visit the whole of the division in time and regardless of how you voted I am here to help with any LCC matter you may have.

My main area of concern at present is to support the Residents affected by the floods of January the 6th this year and to work with them and the Flood Wardens to obtain the best outcome for the Town. The other area of Concern is the proposed Unitary Councils, and I will work closely with Colleagues to try and get the best outcome for Syston Ridgeway and to try and ensure that we do not end up as part of Leicester City.

Kind Regards Mr Bradshaw CC Syston Ridgeway Division

Well, we have been very busy at the time of writing this and we have been trying to come up with new ways to enrich our members and give them something new to do.

Recently, we have been getting a little bit arty which is always great to see! One week we gave our members a chance to work with Emotional Drawing. We asked them to draw something that represents their emotions or a representation of one of their emotions. We always get the odd one or two who always turn around with a laugh saying they can’t draw and that simply isn't true for anyone. If you can draw a stick-man… You can draw. We always try to make people feel confident about what they can and can’t do but if they feel they would rather just sit and chat with others while having a cup of tea, that's perfectly fine too.

The week after that we brought in blank CD’S and DVD’s and once again let the imaginations go

wild. The main aim was to make a hanging piece that can be hung in a garden or wherever else suitable and we had some really creative and brightly coloured outcomes from this. It’s always lovely to see what everyone can bring to life with their imaginations and we feel this really helps get brains ticking away and those creative juices flowing.

If you have what it takes to come in volunteer your time on Wednesday morning for a crafting workshop for a couple of hours then please do get in touch with us below at: 0777 469 5160 madsgroup@yahoo.com (9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday).

As always we are looking for donations to the group, and with the Syston Summer Fayre coming up we are needing donations of items for our stall. This can be from unwanted gifts, unused items or items that you want to get rid of that could be of use to someone else. Literally anything. Anything would be appreciated to help us raise money for our group.

Written by Deanna Johnson [DISCLAIMER: We

are not medical or

healthcare professionals. We just want to provide a safe space for those who need the help to take that step into reaching out for the correct professional support which we can signpost members to.]

The views and opinions expressed on our Letters page are those of the respective authors and do not reflect the opinion of the Syston Town News.

Dear Editor,

Can you highlight the disgusting state of the gutters in Quenby Crescent Syston, this is the state of the gutters ether side of my driveway, what am I paying the extortionate council tax for?

Why do we not get road sweepers??

This causes it to flood when we have torrential rain as it slopes from the road down my driveway and floods my garage.

I should not have to bring this to the council’s notice via the Stn as roads should be swept, at worst once a year.

An Angry Resident name and address supplied

Green Party Councillors Report

This month we’ve been working on some key issues – flooding, proposed changes to planning rules, and the future of our local councils.

Flooding remains a concern in Syston, even as we move into summer. Since the severe floods of the past two winters, we’ve been pushing hard for clearer accountability and stronger action. Following the change in leadership at Leicestershire County Council, we immediately wrote to the new Lead Member for Flooding. We’ve called on them to speed up overdue flood reports and to introduce a proper plan to inspect and clear drains. At Charnwood, we’ve secured major funding for a new flood locker scheme – something Laurie personally called for after Syston flood wardens were unable to access essential supplies during past flood events. The town could receive up to £10,000 from this scheme to support local flood prevention efforts, and lockers with equipment should be in place by the winter, if this is taken up.

We’ll also be working with with Syston’s volunteer flood group to help clear and maintain the areas around the brook – a small but important part of reducing risk and keeping our town looking its best. We’re raising serious concerns about national planning reforms being proposed by the government. These changes would make it easier for developers to bypass environmental checks, including on local wildlife and rare habitats. We brought a motion to Charnwood Borough Council in June to oppose these changes and to make it clear that we expect developers to carry out full ecological surveys. Protecting our countryside and green spaces is important and we’re standing against any weakening of planning rules. On top of this, the government is now reviewing the various proposals put forward regarding their enforced changes to how councils across Leicestershire are structured. One idea – suggested by the Mayor of Leicester – to expand the city boundary into Syston, rightly caused outrage. We’ve been clear from the beginning: we do not support this. Local communities like ours must not be swallowed into an expanded city or folded into a distant ‘super council’. Decisions about towns like Syston should be made by local people who understand them. The government is now asking for feedback on these proposals, and we strongly encourage everyone to respond. You can take part in the consultation by visiting: www.charnwood.gov.uk/north_city_south Finally, a quick update on St Peter’s Court. We’re continuing to support residents in pushing for investment, not closure. We’ve raised their concerns at every level and will keep fighting for a better future for the scheme.

Your local Green Councillors & Campaigners: Laurie Needham, Chris O’Neill, Sandra Woodward, Andy Haynes, Rebekka Yates & David Infield Green Party councillors and campaigners for Syston and surrounding villages

Oh Wow, Exhaustion Alert!

Stumbling on into July, we’re exhausted, no guided tours for you, we have no contents (all gone in that 3rd skip) home is but a shell! Some of our ‘rip out bods’ who we acquired through our insurers were perhaps better suited to doing something else, somewhere else, say no more! Our utmost respect and empathy goes to those who are going through flood recovery for a second time, we really don’t know how you do it, we don’t have the energy to do it once, normality pushed back, cancelled, forgotten, we’ve lost touch with those we shouldn’t, our heads are whizzing ‘with flood recovery and everyday stuff’!

So, for those reading this who may be involved in the ‘official’ now drawn out complex issue of Syston flooding, please push to ‘slow the flow upstream’ and ‘clear the route down Meadow Lane’ so Barkby Brook can reach it’s destination, a destination that’s not the inside of our homes and businesses but via our recently desilted central area of the brook! We have battled through our insurers hoops for five months, our insurance acquired building surveyor got fed up of us picking holes in his schedule (well it was wrong/proven), and we are now free to employ who ‘we trust’ to put our home back together. We’re tired and maybe empty is a better word to use, ‘our get up and go, and usual positivity, has gone’…this is our last article whilst we heal ourselves, feel free to share your own experiences with us all by contacting Syston Town News direct, please don’t let Syston’s flooding be forgotten because summer is on the horizon.

Residents of Syston ‘should not’ be seen as ‘collateral damage’ but we were (and still are), we got by, till now, we were a trade off, more new build housing equals more Council Tax!

Remember, be kind to those you meet, ‘behind those eyes that often water, are tears which are just not allowed to flow’!

M & K

The Malt House Club

Why not book our Large Function Room

The Malt House Suite for Wedding Receptions and Parties

Bingo is played every Thursday 9pm and Saturday 8.30pm - Wednesday afternoon bingo starts 2pm doors open 1pm

We are also now the headquarters of the Syston and District Royal British Legion. Meetings will be held on the third Sunday of each month at 1pm

We Have Two Full Sized Snooker Tables in the Club Slimming World Helen 9.30am and 11.30am Mob: 0794 912 3898 Clive 3.30pm, 5.15pm and 7pm Mob: 0790 983 7215 Quiz Nights: Sunday 13th July Sunday 10th August

A good selection of Beers, Wines and Spirits. Friendly Bar Staff 59 High Street, Syston

Members Children allowed in the Lounge until 9pm (Under parental control)

JULY

Jeanne Douglas offers psychic readings in Palmistry, Tarot, Crystal and Personal Astrology. Her telephone numbers are 01664 562 471 or 07931 293 855.

ARIES March 21 - April 19

Heavy tasks get completed easily with just an active imagination and with a little help from kindly others! For you have a deadline approaching and there’s considerable pressure to meet it. So do your best and you’ll be surprised at the progress. Some old worries resurface – once again… Just look forward and keep on moving.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

Romance stirs with someone extremely clever! The conversation alone will be exciting. Together you make plans to get out and about so travel is quite possible, maybe a holiday or a few days’ break away? Either way, it’ll cost a few pennies, so take care to pace yourself. It’s just what you need to get your confidence back.

GEMINI May 21 - June 21

You’re looking and feeling your absolute best these days and others certainly sit up and take notice! As the social invites start to flood in, you can be sure that romantic opportunities abound. Financially, you’re on the make and can finally start to save for a rainy day. Feisty words are spoken in the home environment, so duck and hide.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

You’ll be spending and shopping around so you can catch up with any practical tasks. You’ll have more than a little luck on your side to help! You’re in a kindly mood and others are drawn to your warmth and affection. You certainly have an ability to heal and uplift others who are feeling down and depressed with a friendly smile.

LEO July 23 - August 22

You finally open up and express yourself quite clearly after some considerable time of keeping things quietly to yourself. But you decide this is not healthy. Others try to help you to work through issues but easily end up being bossy and opinionated. However, things still get done as you feel the benefit of mass, hectic activity.

VIRGO August 23 - Sept 21

You finally work things out and have plenty to say, if only others were receptive enough to listen! Yes, you’ll be more than vocal and will go out of your way to set an example or even undertake tasks yourself that others should really be doing. Whilst you’ve worked things out clearly, others see things totally differently…. Sigh!

LIBRA Sept 22 - Oct 22

Life is surprisingly quiet and you’ll wonder just what you really want to do! You’ll find that you can’t settle with your own thoughts and keep wanting to know what others are up to. So you feel uncomfortable and restless. You wish others would open up more but seem to be in a world of their own. Just give them time.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21

You make yourself be totally honest with yourself and face life squarely. A good dose of emotional intelligence also comes to your aid as you try to unravel the motives of others. A close friend or partner has incredible insight and comes to your aid, with some magnificent idea. What would you do without them?

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21

A loving relationship gives you all the warmth and care that you could ever need and you do seem to be wanting this right now! Friends travel a good distance to see you and to catch up with all your news. You’re also tempted to go off travelling with them as you listen to their exciting adventures. Yes, maybe one day…

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19

A partner is planning to expand and is hoping to take some bold steps indeed! You can stand by and offer detached advice or get more involved as time goes by – as you will do! But, for now, you do the practical thing and focus on your own life and current concerns. Though work is quiet your mind is just so very busy.

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18

You’re in a position of strength and start to wield your power bit by bit. Others react strongly with tough words and may even initiate action but you stay true to yourself! For your imaginative abilities are incredible at the moment and you solve not only your own problems but everyone else’s too. Your success is amazing.

PISCES Feb 19 - March 20

Someone is quite put out by you and will let their feelings be known! Meanwhile, you’re quite innocent in your own way and try to avoid such silliness and keep your head down low. You put your intuition into gear to work out some financial issues and come up trumps! Sometimes your gut feelings come out right on top, like now.

HATS Delightful ‘Donuts’

HATS (Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society) production of ‘Donuts for the Depressed’ by HE Hubler with permission from Stage Scripts, proved to be a resounding success.

The audience were treated to a host of hilarious events during the journey of bumbling Edwin trying so hard to please his beloved Agnes. In order for Edwin to get Agnes’ fathers (Walter) permission to marry, Agnes ordered Edwin and her friend Clark to kidnap her grandmother and then rescue her knowing that Walter would be indebted to having her back and agree to their marriage.

Everything went wrong of course. From charity functions that saw the attendees eating grass and mudcovered Donuts, to singing Butlers, and a grandmother that was sweet, but deemed to be a menace.

Edwin and Clark’s efforts went repeatedly wrong. In total they managed to kidnap nine people, hiding them in the garden shed and various other places. Trolleys and wheelbarrows appeared with bodies too.

In an effort to try and convince the ‘kidnapped’ that nothing untoward had happened, a therapy session was held, and they were ultimately told that they had all had fallen asleep and had been dreaming.

Agnes’ grandmother was never kidnapped, and her father gave permission for Agnes and Edwin to marry.

Our fabulous audiences laughed throughout, and left the venue feeling very entertained, however, quite a few said they would not be venturing into their garden sheds any time soon.

Comments included the following: Helen said: “thoroughly fantastic enjoyed every moment”.

Biz and Harvey said: “show was fab! Cast was incredible as always with incredible line delivery”.

Your generosity in purchasing raffle tickets resulted in an amazing £201 which will be donated to LOROS.

Our next production will be our Panto ‘The Emperors New Clothes’ by P L McQueen, with permission from Lazy Bee Scripts. Dates for your diary: 4th, 5th and 6thDecember in the evening with an addition matinee

performance on the 6th.

Our Director and Co-Director are Jo Murray and Lorraine Nash. They are both very excited and we know they will do a fabulous job.

Watch out for regular updates in local magazines, facebook and other places.

Facebook details: www.facebook. com/hatsamdram

Vintage Delights

Stn was invited to visit the newly opened Vintage Delights to meet the owners and see what they offer.

Well to say we were blown away is an understatement!

The choice is off the scale and basically, you build your own delight! They have seven bases to choose from including waffles, mini waffles, churros, sundaes etc. then you choose your topping, too many to list here, followed by a side of ice cream or cream and then you chose your sauce, again the list is huge.

The bases are all cooked fresh and each waffle for example is constructed to your choice!

As well as delights they offer sweet treats, milk shakes and other drinks.

I have to say they look delicious and the prices are not over the top.

If you like ice cream, fresh fruit, chocolate in every form you can think of, then this is the place for you.

You can eat in, space is limited or take away.

This is a great new idea for a business in Syston and deserves a visit.

They have plans to create savoury waffles in the future.

Check out their facebook page: Vintage Delights, for weekly special offers and opening times as they are still deciding on the regular times.

Cheque Presentation to the Air Ambulance

Tina McBrien had a lovely time at the Air Ambulance base on Monday 9th June handing over the cheque for the money raised at the Air Ambulance event she did and met the critical care paramedic who helped her on the morning of her accident.

The Air Ambulance do an amazing job. Keep supporting guys thanks for all your support.

WHY ADVERTISE IN YOUR LOCAL PAPER?

Youarereadingthisadvertand yourpotentialcustomerscouldbe readingittoo. By advertising in the Syston Town News you are getting your name in front of local people and supporting your community newspaper.

For More Details Contact: Syston Town News T: 0116 269 3221

E: fiona@systontownnews.co.uk

School’s Out for Summer!

At the time of reading this we will have just finished our latest production – John Godber’s raucous comedy, ‘Teechers’, which brought to life a play within a play, as told by spirited school-leavers – Gail, Hobby, and Salty – as they took us on a hilariously chaotic ride through the trials and tribulations of school life at Whitewall School. Thank you to everyone who watched and supported us, we hope you enjoyed a nostalgic time in the classroom and left with a smile lasting long after the final school bell!

A special thank you to our star

performers who put on this class-act comedy play. Firm on-stage favourites Matt Ormerod, Ranata Maynard, Tobias Garner, Jo Gallagher, and new kid-on-the-block David Jones, all went straight to the top of the class with their excellent performances! Not forgetting our super production team – Leigh White, Jo Gallagher, Russell Webster, Lesley Smith and her wonderful frontof house team, and Kat Seddon, who made sure everything was all in order.

Missed out on seeing what was cool for school? Visit our website for some snaps capturing all our antics www. qttheatregp.co.uk/gallery

We have an exciting new play lined up for November 2025 – ‘Ladies’ Day’ by Amanda Whittington, which will be directed by Leigh White and will run Tuesday 25 to Friday 28 November 2025 at The Old Chapel in Syston. ‘Ladies’ Day’is a comedy drama about four ladies who work as fish filleters in a fish factory in Hull. Work,

love, and life are just one long, hard slog for the fish-filleting foursomePearl, Jan, Shelley, and Linda - who are closely factory-supervised by Joe. But the ladies’ fortunes are set to change. As the girls head off to Royal Ascot on Ladies’ Day for a flirt, flutter, fizz and fun, secrets start to be revealed. If their luck holds out, they could hit the jackpot and a lot more besides!

Fancy a go at treading the boards in our next production? Come and audition on Tuesday 12 and Thursday 14 August 2025! There are four female roles and up to six male roles, all with a mixture of age ranges. For more information, please contact Leigh White on 07787 834781 or leighbwhite@hotmail.com. We are always looking for new members to keep our society growing – be it on-stage, backstage, front-ofhouse, and everything in-between! We have been bringing drama to Syston since 1953, contributing to our local community through our shows of course, but also the funds we generate that are invested back into our society and to wider local charities. We are immensely proud to be a cornerstone in our neighbourhood. Help us keep doing what we love and sharing the wonder of theatre with our amazing audiences, and supporting Syston and our wider community, by becoming a member – membership is free for the first year!

To discover more, visit our website www.qttheatregp.co.uk, follow us on Facebook: Syston QT Theatre Group and on Instagram systonqttheatre or email us at qtsyston@gmail.com. Don’t forget to join our mailing list so you can get advance notice of our productions and stay up to date with all things QT!

Jude Latham Chair

Syston QT Theatre Group

Free Summer Holiday Clubs and Gym Passes forEligible Families

Free holiday clubs and gym and swim memberships are being offered in Leicestershire again this summer for eligible families.

Families with children aged five-to-16 receiving benefits-related free school meals can sign up now for the Government-funded places at more than 90 venues across the county.

Organised locally by Leicestershire County Council with support from Active Together, the Holiday Activity Fund (HAF) programme offers a maximum of 16 sessions for each child over the summer holidays.

Free junior gym and swim summer memberships are available for 11-to16-year-olds at selected Everyone Active leisure centres.

Leader of Leicestershire County Council, Dan Harrison, said: “These clubs provide a safe, fun and enriching environment for children such as sports, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures and hands-on workshops, as well as a nutritious meal every day.

“Children and young people gain not only memorable experiences but also opportunities to socialise, stay active and learn new skills in a supportive environment.”

Geoff Maltby, Strategic Lead at Active Together said: “With so many providers offering HAF places this year, we are encouraging as many eligible children and young people as possible to take up this offer.

"Our gym and swim offer, in partnership with local leisure centres, is a perfect opportunity for our older young people to be active over the summer and access a healthy hot meal to support their physical and mental health and wellbeing.”

Sessions take place across Leicestershire including in Melton, Loughborough, Thurmaston, Syston, Coalville, Hinckley and Ashby –check the full list: www.leicestershire. gov.uk/HAF

Please help keep our Parks and Streets Clean and Safe by cleaning up after your dog, if you are a dog owner. Using waste bins provided throughout Syston to dispose of your rubbish!

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The views expressed are the views of individual contributors and does not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

Inclusion of an advertisement in the Syston Town News does not constitute any endorsement of a product or service

THE GREAT LITTLE PAPER

Can You Spare Half an Hour a Month?

Volunteers Required To Deliver in the Following Areas

HADRIAN CLOSE

TROJAN WAY

SWIFT CLOSE

ANTHONY CLOSE

FINAL COPY DATE FOR AUGUST 2025 ISSUE IS: Tuesday 15th July

GREEN PAGES

Go green and advertise in the STN Green Pages Directory.

An entry costs from as little as £8 per month, giving you your own heading, business name, phone numbers, email and website addresses.

Extra lines are only £1 each.

In addition the directory is published on our website: www.systontownnews.co.uk free of charge

To promote your business in the STN telephone 0116 269 3221 or email fiona@systontownnews.co.uk

DIRECTORY green pages

Your local directory of Businesses, Clubs, Societies and Other Useful Information.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Post Office, Syston. 0116 260 3765

Age Concern Syston. 0116 260 1476

CRIMESTOPPERS. 0800 555 111

Parkinson's UK. 0808 800 0303

Roadline. 0800 62 63 63

Samaritans. 0116 270 0007

Severn Trent. 0800 783 444

Syston Volunteer Centre. 0116 260 7888

Syston Flood Wardens: 0781 8485 855 This number is available 24/7 and on WhatsApp.

E.A. Incident Hotline: 0800 807 0606 Councils:

Charnwood Borough Council. 01509 263 151

Leics. County Council. 0116 232 3232

Syston Town Council. 0116 260 7150

Hospitals/Healthcare:

Glenfield Hospital, Leicester General & Leicester Royal Infirmary: 0300 303 1573

Accident and Emergency: Leicester Royal Infirmary. 0300 303 1573

NHS Direct. 111

Syston Health Centre

The Jubilee Medical Practice: 295 0600

The County Practice: 295 0500

Community Nursing Service: 0300 300 7777

Health Visitors: 0116 215 3208

Chemists: Boots. 0116 269 8218

Sunlit. 0116 260 2695

East Goscote Pharmacy. 0116 260 6734 Leisure:

South Charnwood Leisure Centre 0116 264 0057

Syston Community Centre. 0116 260 7150

Syston Library. 0116 305 3500

Syston Northfields Tennis Club. 0116 260 5926

Syston Rugby FC. 0116 260 1223

Syston Twinning. 0116 260 9744

Wreake Runners. Daniel 07958 400 433 Police: Syston Police. 101 Schools/Colleges:

The Merton Primary School. 0116 260 8150

Roundhill Community Academy. 0116 269 3896

SS Peter & Paul Primary Academy. 0116 260 7577

Wreake Valley Academy. 0116 264 1080

Biffa Waste Issues:

Biffa Transfer Station. 0800 307 307

ADULT SOCIAL CARE

Quinn Care UK Ltd

We provide tailored care and support to adults with special educational needs & disabilities. CQC registered. Contact Brioney on 0794 440 0072

AERIALS

Image Aerials, Syston

Local, friendly service, competitive rates, repairs, alterations & TV tuning. Free quotes. Tel: 0116 260 3481 Mob: 0797 020 2125.

BATHROOM AND TILING

Souter Bathrooms Ltd

Tel: Darren 0116 260 4105 or Mob: 0776 668 5901

CARPETS

Costcutter Carpets

Tel/Fax: 0116 264 0745

email: costcuttercarpets@tiscali.co.uk

CHARITY GROUPS

Age Concern Syston

The Methodist Church Centre, High Street, Syston LE7 1GP. Tel: 0116 260 1476.

Help and Advice Centre open Monday to Thursday 9.00am to 12.30pm. Syston & District Volunteer Centre 18 School Street, Syston.

Office open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 4.00pm. Tel: 0116 260 7888.

CHILD CARE GROUPS

In B Tweenies

A parent, baby and toddler group for parents with children who have been on a neo natal unit. The group meets on Tuesdays from 10.00am until 12 noon at Queniborough Dance Co. 109 Broad Street, LE7 1GJ. Telephone Lindsay on 07847 264 382. www.prembabies.co.uk

Make & Play (Mondays and Fridays) Syston Methodist Church, 10.00am until 11.00am both days term time only. £2 for the first child and £1 for subsequent children. For more information about the group contact: Samantha at samanthahowarth1990@hotmail.co.uk or Make & Play - Syston.

Tots at 10

Held every Tuesday term time only at St Peter & St Paul’s Church Hall, 10.00am until 11.15am.

£2 per adult (includes child’s entrance). For more information about the group please either see our Facebook page (Tots at 10) contact: Totsat10@gmail.com

Children with Special Needs/Happy Smiles

Sandra and Amy run a voluntary play group at Elizabeth Park Thurmaston. Thursday mornings 9.30 -11.30pm, closed 2nd Thursday of each month, all children welcome 0-5 years. We charge £1 per child and they receive drinks and snacks.

Also the adults can sit and natter over a cup of coffee or tea. Telephone Sandra 0798 321 6372.

CHILDREN’S CLUB

Children's Bible Discovery Club

Mondays 3.45 to 4.45pm (term time only) Children's Bible Discovery Club, five to 10 yrs. It’s free to attend and you can come straight from school and enjoy crafts, songs, games and stories all with a Biblical theme. Parents are

CHURCH GROUPS

Children's Bible Discovery Club cont’d welcome to stay with younger children. Takes place at the Broadway Gospel Hall, Broadway, Syston, Leicester LE7 1GA.

For further information please email: contact@broadwaygospelhall.org.uk or check the website: broadwaygospelhall. org.uk

Broadway Gospel Hall Activities

Alternate Wednesdays 2.30pm Ladies meeting. Come and share Christian Fellowship, you will receive a warm welcome. Transport is available. All meetings take place at the Broadway Gospel Hall, Broadway, Syston, Leicester LE7 1GA. For further information please email:contact@broadwaygospelhall.org.uk or check the website: broadwaygospelhall.org.uk

CHURCHES IN SYSTON

Broadway Gospel Hall, Broadway, Syston LE7 1GA

Sunday 4.30pm Gospel meeting. Everyone is welcome. www.broadwaygospelhall.org.uk e: contact@broadwaysgospelhall.org.uk

Divine Infant of Prague Syston, 63 Broad Street

Mass 6.00 pm Saturday 11.00 am Sunday www.diopsyston.com

Syston Evangelical Baptist Church, 1111 Melton Road, Syston, LE7 2JS Main service Sunday 10.30am with Sunday School taking place during the service. All are welcome! https://systonbaptist.church/ Syston Methodist Church, High Street Sunday Service 10.30am Holy Communion Service, every second and fourth Tuesday in the month, at 10am.

Contact: Rev. Kim Alexander 0116 267 3960.

The Meeting Place @ The Hub Room Hire contact 0772 411 3494. St Peter and St Paul CoE, Upper Church Street. Syston services are every Sunday Eucharist at 10.30am and Wednesday morning at 9.30pm https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/ 5257/get-in-touch/ Contact: Rev. Ros Harper, Team Vicar 0785 157 3236. Day Off - Mondays. CLEANING SERVICES

Done & Dusted

Quality Counts: Domestic and Commercial Cleans, all cleans catered for. Tel: 0116 260 2828 Mob: 0788 754 2884 www.done-n-dusted.com

COMPUTER SERVICES

Think Digital Project

Age UK are running this project offering FREE 1:1 support with smartphones, tablets, iPads, laptops and desktops. Whether you need support by phone or online; want to be kept informed about physical IT Help Groups when they restart, or just don’t know where to begin –give the Project a call on 0116 223 7371 or email us on thinkdigital@ageukleics. org.uk and we will do our very best to help.

CONSERVATORY ROOF CLEANER

Clean Start

Well Established, Professional Conservatory Cleaner. Fully Insured and DBS Checked.

Contact Wayne Mob: 0797 750 5453 or email: cleanstart200864@yahoo.com

CRAFTS

North Leicestershire Beaders

Meet twice a month. £5. Call Anna for details. Tel: 0797 687 2444. ambromley@gmail.com

Syston & District U3A Craft Groups Parchment group - meets on the third Wednesday of the month in the Syston Community Centre, School Street, 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Kevins Domestic Appliances Sales & Repairs Washing Machines, Dryers, Dishwashers and Cookers etc. Tel: 0116 269 7168 Mob: 0771 160 4297.

DRIVING SCHOOLS

Wheel Pass

Mob: 0795 121 5161. Find us on Facebook Lessons to Suit Your Timetable ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES

Byrite Electrical Ltd 1286 Melton Road, Syston Tel: 0116 260 2299. www.byriteelectricals.com

ELECTRICIANS

Letts Electrical Services

NICEIC registered

Tel: 0116 259 7137 Mob: 0786 651 6286. All Electrical Work Undertaken. M A Skinner Electrical Services Syston Based, reliable, no job too small. Mob: 0799 098 1297.

FLOWER AND GARDEN GROUPS

Allotment Society

We meet on the first Thursday of the month at Syston Social Club 7.30pm. For more details contact Syston Town Council on 0116 260 7150.

Birstall Flower Club

Meet on the fourth Wednesday in Birstall Village Hall at 7.15pm. (not July and December). Visitors welcome, £5. Contact either Sylvia: 0116 267 4206 or Carol McManus 0116 267 1437.

Brooksby Gardening Club

Meets on the third Wednesday from September to May 7.30pm, Queniborough Village Hall, Rearsby Rd., Queniborough. If you have not visited us previously but this new time suits you we will welcome your visit.

For further information Josie on 0116 260 1478 or Madeleine on 0116 260 5539. Melton Mowbray and District Flower Club

Meet on third Monday in each month at Asfordy Parish Hall, 24 Main st. Asfordby. LE14 3SA. 6.45 for 7.15pm start. (Not January). Demonstrations and talks. Visitors welcome, £5. Tel: 01664 812 636.

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Furnley House

Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) 340 Melton Road, Leicester, LE4 7SL Tel: 0116 269 6311. www.furnleyhouse.co.uk

FUNCTIONS & EVENT

Syston R.F.C.

Tel: 0116 260 1223/260 7719. email: info@systonrfc.co.uk

GARAGES

Queniborough County Garage

Tel: 0116 260 0081/260 2288.

GAS SERVICING

Gas-Servwell

Tel: 0116 236 7923 Mob: 0786 073 5066.

Unigas Heating Services

Tel: 01664 434 742.

GUIDING IN SYSTON

Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Senior Section & Trefoil

Syston District of Guiding caters for girls from age 5 onwards.

Rainbows age 5 - 7: Brownies age 7 - 10: Guides age 10 - 14: Seniors age 14 - 25: Trefoil 25 +

We welcome volunteers to join our unit leaders too. To join or go on our waiting lists please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/ register

GUTTER CLEANING

Clean Start

Internal gutter cleaning using the latest vacuum technology. Fully insured and DBS checked. Contact Wayne Mob: 0797 750 5453 or email: cleanstart200864@yahoo.com

DJK Guttering

All types of gutters cleaned, repaired and moss removal.

Tel: 0116 298 6404 Mob: 0747 020 4060. email: djkroofcare@gmail.com

HAIRDRESSING

Antehc Hair and Skin Studio

Specialist in hair loss and anti-ageing. Mob: 07877 981 877.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Indoor Bowls

Syston Community Centre

Wednesdays 1.45pm to 3.45pm £1.20 per week. For more details contact C. Palmer on 0750 610 9549.

Over the Hill Walking Club

This club is for singles in the 40 plus age range. We have organised walks in Leicestershire and surrounding counties every Sunday and some Wednesday evenings in the Summer. To find out more contact Dave Gooder on 0116 285 6271. or visit our website www.overthehillwalking.org.uk.

Syston M.A.D.S (Mental Health, Anxiety & Depression Support) Group

We are a friendly bunch who want to help support people with Mental Health or people who are lonely.

We meet every Wednesday morning from 10am till 12pm at the Syston Brookside WMC. £1 Donation each week. For any enquiries please contact us by Mob: 0777 469 5160 Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm. email: MADSgroup@yahoo.com

Syston Young at Heart Group

We are a friendly group which caters for the elderly and housebound of Syston, meeting every Thursday at the Community Centre from 10.00am to 1.45pm. Transport can be provided, places now available. Please phone Age Concern on 0116 260 1476.

HEALTH FOODS

The Body Store

Qualified to give free advice

13 Town Square, Syston LE7 1GZ Tel: 0116 269 4348.

HISTORY GROUPS

Barkby Local History Group

We meet irregularly for trips out and talks by invited speakers. For more information contact Sandra Moore 0116 236 3739. sandraemoore@sky.com

Syston Local History Group

Meet on the third Monday of the month at 7.30pm, in The Hub, Methodist Church Centre, High Street. Visitors £2 per meeting. For further information contact Clive Iliffe 0116 260 9081.

KITCHENS & BEDROOMS

LFI Kitchens & Bedrooms

Mob: 0771 570 8809.

LANGUAGE TUITION

Leicestershire Languages Tutor (Spanish & French) call 07840 543 893 web: leicestershireLanguagesTutor.co.uk email: mariel.bthomas@gmail.com

LEGAL SERVICES

HPLC

Tel: 0116 260 8990 Mob: 0750 149 5503 email: heather@hplcconveyancing.co.uk

MORTGAGE ADVISORS

A & A Mortgages Ltd (Annu) 10a High Street, Syston Tel: 0116 269 8008. Your local independent Mortgage Advisors.

Furnley House Independent Mortgage Advice 340 Melton Road, Leicester, LE4 7SL Tel: 0116 269 6311. www.furnleyhouse.co.uk

MUSIC GROUPS

Acoustic nights at QMCL Club

43A Main Street, Queniborough. Alternate Mondays from 7.00pm. All levels and listeners always welcome. Free entry.

Ratcliffe Chorale

A non-audition choir that sings a wide variety of music. We meet at Syston Methodist Church, High Street, LE7 1GP (term time only) Monday evenings 7pm to 8.45pm. For more information please see the Ratcliffe Chorale website: ratcliffechorale.org.uk

Singing for Fun East Midlands Meets during term time on Thursdays 2.15pm to 4.15pm at Elizabeth Centre, Thurmaston. For more information or to register contact Caroline: info@carolinesharpe.com 0776 215 4900. www.singingforfunem.com

Syston Band

Every Monday at 7.30pm to practice, looking for a rehearsal room. New members of any standard welcome. Contact via email on systonbandmail@yahoo.co.uk

Syston Swing Band

Rehearsals at Brookside Club every Tuesday from 7.30pm email: Systonswingband@outlook.com if interested in joining or booking the band. You will also find us on Facebook.

U3A Ukulele Group meets every Friday 2.00pm to 3.30pm at the Brookside Club, Syston. For more information contact Len Abraham on 0781 278 7238.

Ukulele Classes at Thurmaston Bowls Club, Elizabeth Park, every Wednesday afternoon 2.30pm to 4.30pm. £2 includes refreshments. All welcome from beginners to experienced. Contact Len on 0781 278 7238 for more information.

NURSERIES & PRE-SCHOOLS

St Peter and St Paul Pre-School

School Lodge, Upper Church Street, Syston. Tel: 0116 269 8638.

OPTICIANS

Your Sight Opticians

1176 Melton Road, Syston. Opposite Aldi. We provide home visits for those who can’t get to us

Tel: 0116 260 7075.

PAINTING & DECORATING

Rob Toon Painter & Decorator Tel: 0116 260 2856 Mob: 0798 177 1164.

PLASTERER

G M Plastering & Rendering

Contact Gary on Mob: 0779 158 3613 or email: kirkbyhammer@hotmail.co.uk

REFLEXOLOGY

Healing Touch Reflexology by Mariel call 07840 543 893. web: healingtouchreflexology.co.uk email: mariel.bthomas@gmail.com

ROOFING SPECIALIST

CJ Roofing Services Leics Ltd

Slating & Tiling Specialists (Syston)

Tel : 0799 089 8977

Email: info@cj-roofing.co.uk

DJK Roofing & Guttering

Tel: 0116 298 6404 Mob: 07470 204060. email: djkroofcare@gmail.com

All types of roof and guttering work. Leaks, Flat Roofs, Moss removal and Jet Washing. General property maintenance.

SCOUT GROUPS

Queniborough Scout Group

Queniborough Scout Hall, Syston Road, Queniborough.

Beavers: Thursday 6.30pm to 7.45pm Cubs: Wednesday 7.00pm to 8.30pm Scouts: Tuesday 7.30pm to 9.00pm. Contact: Jennie Angell on 0116 260 7359.

Rearsby Scout Group

Beavers: Wednesday 6.00pm to 7.00pm Cubs: Wednesday 7.15 to 8.15pm Contact Paul Smith 0780 198 5020 or dc@charnwoodscouts.org.uk

Syston Scout Group

Syston Scout Hall, Oxford Street, Syston. Beavers 6-8yrs: Monday 6.30 to 7.30pm. Cubs 8-10yrs: Thursday 6.30 to 8.00pm. Scouts 10-14 yrs: Tuesday 7.30 to 9.00pm Explorer Scouts 14-18yrs : Friday 7.00 to 9.00pm Network 18-25yrs : Monday 7.45 to 9.45pm.

Scout and Guide Band 9yrs +: Wednesday 7.00 to 9.00pm. For more information, please contact Chris Bodycot on 0116 326 6908 or visit www.systonscouts.org.uk/join SKIP HIRE

Blue Skip Hire

Tel: 0116 269 3530 Mob: 0784 658 7321. web: www.blueskips.co.uk

SOCIAL GROUPS

Age Concern Syston

Wednesdays Coffee Morning 10.00 to 11.30am. A warm welcome awaits you at the Methodist Hall, High Street, Syston. Tel: 0116 260 1476.

East Goscote Friendship Club

We are a friendly group of over 50’s who meet on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month 2.00pm to 4.00pm at St Hilda’s Church Hall, Ling Dale, East Goscote. Everyone welcome. Contact: Marie Pole on 0116 260 2287

Hoby Bridge Club

Meet twice a month on Thursday evenings at 7.15pm. We welcome new members to join our friendly group. For further information please contact M. Mitchell on 0780 292 2582.

Ivydale Club Social Group

Every Wednesday 2.00pm to 4.00pm. Over 50’s Club meet at Thurmaston Community Centre, Silverdale Road, Thurmaston. Tel: 0756 115 6675 or 0333 011 2406.

Leicester Railway Society (Formed 1939)

Meets third Tuesday of the month. Start 7.30pm at the Braunstone Civic Centre, 209 Kingsway, Leicester LE3 2PP

Contact: Michael Chapman (Secretary) 0116 260 3336 or Brian Holland (Programme Organiser) 0116 236 8328. New Chapter Bereavement Support Group

Meet Monday afternoons 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Thurmaston Memorial Hall, 722 Melton Rd. Thurmaston. LE4 8ED. Come along and meet others living with loss. Meet new people who can offer companionship and understanding without judgement. For more information and an informal chat contact Lin on 0788 649 2240.

Poppies Memory Cafe

Meets at Syston Community Centre from 10.30am to 12noon on the first Tuesday of the month. Dementia Support Services Leicestershire. Contact: 0116 223 7363. Rearsby & District YFC

Meetings every week on Thursdays at 8.00pm in Barkby Village Hall. Call Catriona on 0789 022 6035.

St Peter’s Court Club

Coffee morning every Thursday 10.00am until 11.00am. St Peter’s Court, Melton Road, Syston.

Syston Chess Club

Meets every Tuesday at the Syston & District Social Club, High Street, Syston at 7.30pm. We offer a friendly and comfortable environment and play chess at all levels. We enter local and national competitions. We will teach anyone who wishes to learn!

Syston and District U3A

Have a social meeting at 'Syston Community Centre' 10am - 12pm on second Wednesday every month. Interested in joining? Come for Coffee and listen to our Guest Speaker. Our 'Meet and Greet' ladies are on the door to help or call 0300 102 1381 for more details.

Syston & District Volunteer Centre

Hold their Community Lunch every third Tuesday in the month. Transport available, cost of lunch £15. All members

welcome. Call our office to book your place. 0116 260 7888.

Syston Friendship Group

A meeting of friends with learning difficulties, our member’s ages range from 20 to 75. We meet weekly on most Thursday nights from 7.00pm to 9.00pm in the Syston Community Centre where we have a range of activities including crafts, bingo, games, Lego, general socialising etc. Minibus pickup is part of the service that our volunteers can provide. Contact Anne & Trevor Carter 0788 990 3907, email: trevhme@aol.com

Syston Games Club

Are you new to the area, want to make new friends or just keep your brain active? Come and join our friendly club at Syston Community Centre every Tuesday 2.00pm to 4.00pm to play Rummikub and other games. For more info contact Bev on 0116 319 8931 or Liz on 01509 816 541.

Syston Sign Club

‘Connecting hands, building bridges’ Meets every third Wednesday of the month from 6pm at The Pharmacie Arms, Syston. For more information contact SystonSignClub@gmail.com

Facebook: Syston Sign Club

Syston Twinning Association

Syston is twinned with Deville les Rouen, Normandy. If you would like more details about joining us please contact our Chairperson on 0116 269 3221. The Thrummy Drummer

Dementia Social and Support Group is an informal and friendly group, meeting on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am to 12.30pm. Elizabeth Park centre, Thurmaston. LE4 8FN

Thurmaston Ladies meet at Thurmaston RBL, Melton Rd, Thurmaston on the 1st Tuesday of the month. All Welcome. For further information please contact Elsa on 0771 974 3411 or Eileen on 0745 560 4296.

Timeless Connections

Dementia friendly cafe meets every Thursday, 1pm to 4.30pm. £3 per person, includes unlimited tea and coffee. Community Hub Cafe, High street, Syston.

U3A Syston Canasta Card Group meets every Monday (except bank holidays) from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the Syston Community Centre, however, we are currently full, so if you wish to join please contact Jane Mercy on 0116 260 1117.

Wreake Valley Rotary Club

Meet every second and fourth Wednesday evenings at The British Legion, Front Street, Birstall 7.30pm. Visitors made most welcome.

SPORTS CLUBS

Fosse Company of Archers Saturdays 1.00pm onwards, October to March at Wreake Valley Academy (indoors, gym building). April to September outdoors at Syston Rugby Club. New and experienced archers welcome. For more information visit www.fossecompanyofarchers.uk

Kobra Martial Arts

We have launched our senior and junior sessions for karate! Junior sessions take place from 5.15pm to 6.15pm every Monday and Thursday evenings. Senior

sessions will take place from 6.30pm to 7.30pm every Monday and Thursday evenings. Senior age starts at 16 and juniors age starts six. These sessions take place at 12-10 Lower Church Street, Syston, LE7 1GX. If you’re interested in signing up, drop me a message or give me a call on 0795 101 2048 or mail:kobramartialarts@gmail.com

Riverside Utd Junior Football Club

We are always looking for new players to come and join our fantastic football club. We train kids from 4 years and upwards at Wreake Valley Academy in Syston. Please contact Paul Cassidy on 0750 744 2226 or visit: www.riversideutdjfc.com for further details.

Special Olympics Leicestershire and Rutland

Special Olympics Leicestershire and Rutland uses sport to empower children and adults with intellectual disabilities to enhance their health and wellbeing. Our Facebook page for more info is www. facebook.com/SoleicestershireRutland St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club Want to try bowls? St Margaret's (near Red Hill Circle) is a friendly local club which welcomes bowlers of any ability. Contact Carolyn or John on 0116 267 5947.

Syston Bowling Club

Provides opportunities for all to gain or develop skills, make friends and enjoy a year-round social programme in our clubhouse. Free coaching with equipment provided. For more details contact: Val Foreman on 0116 260 9635.

Syston Kickboxing Club

Training on Tuesdays from 7.00pm to 8.00pm at Syston Community Centre. Suitable for all ages and abilities from beginners to experienced. Cost £3.50 for children and £4 for adults, pay as you go. Contact Brent Penniston on 01664 562 286 or email pennistonbrent@hotmail. com

Syston Mixed Hockey Club

We play our home games at Mountsorrel - Soar Valley Leisure Centre - 2.30 on Saturday afternoons. Away games could be any time on a Saturday and at various venues throughout Leicestershire. Lifts could be arranged from Syston. Age range of club members teens to 70's. Contact details - Patrick on 07977 448074 or Jo on 07786 333432. patrickoakman@outlook.com

Syston Northfields Lawn Tennis Club Tennis for mixed membership. All levels, all ages. Coaching given. Monday and Wednesday, Senior Club Night, Tuesday, Junior Club Night. Syston Northfields Tennis Club, Northfields, off Melton Road. LE7 1HW. Contact Edd Whetton (Coach) on 07800 599 057 or email: edward.whetton@gmail.com for further information.

Syston RFC

The club runs sides from aged five to fifty years. The U6s to U17s play and train Sundays/Tuesdays/Wednesdays, September to April. We have over 300 members. The Senior Club 18-50yrs play Saturdays. We have five sides training Monday and Thursday from 7.00pm. All welcome. Contact the club 0116 260 1223 or www.systonrfc.co.uk.

Syston Syclers

An enthusiastic group who meet at The Green, High St. Syston each week. For more details please contact Marie on 0789 697 5122 or email: Marie@systonsyclers.com or visit www. systonsyclers.com

Syston Town Cricket Club

The club has three senior teams and junior teams at all age groups from Kwik Cricket to Under 17 level. New players of all ages are always welcome and for general information about the club contact: Ivan Spibey on 07711 139 711. Practice nets for all age groups are available both winter and summer and further details can be obtained from Scott Cooper on 0792 950 2012.

Syston Town Juniors FC

We cater for all ages, boys and girls 4 to 17 years. All coaches are DBS checked and hold FA qualifications. We train and play at two venues, Necton St, (Memorial Park) and Wreake Valley Academy, days and times vary dependant on age and time of year. For further information contact:

secretary@systontownjnrs@yahoo.co.uk

We also run development centres for boys 4 to 6 years 9 to 11am and girls 5 to 9 years 9 to 10am on a Saturday morning at Wreake Academy on the 3g pitch. Please contact:

Boys: Andyon 0796 624 8878. Girls: Daveon 0771 104 4768. Tae Kwon-Do

Four to six years Tigers, Tuesday 5.30pm to 6.15pm Juniors and Adults mixed classes Tuesday and Friday 6.30pm to 7.30pm. St Peter and St Paul’s Primary Academy, Upper Church St, Syston. Contact James Freer on 0771 895 3850.

Thai-Tanium Boxing Club

Various classes for beginners, advanced, kids, juniors, ladies and adults. As well as 1:1 sessions please contact us on Facebook or Contact Jamie on 0797 365 6778. Now based at 760A Melton Rd, Thurmaston.

Wreake and Soar Valley Athletics Club

Running - Middle/long distance/sprints club for all the family with experienced qualified coaches, junior athletes from age seven. Adults from absolute beginners to existing runners looking to improve. Contact John on 0781 769 3777 email:

wreakeandsoarvalleyac@gmail.com

Web: www.wreakeandsoarvalleyathletics.club

Wreake Runners Running Club

Every Tuesday and Thursday 6.45pm, plus fortnightly track sessions. See website for details. 4 week trial available. Run@wreakerunners.co.uk www.wreakerunners.co.uk

Wreake Valley Tetsudo Club (Martial Arts)

Train on Monday evenings 6.30pm to 8pm at Syston Rugby Club.

Contact John: 0797 624 1427. THEATRE GROUPS

Syston QT Theatre Group

A small friendly, local group, we meet every Tuesday (and Thursdays during rehearsal periods) at The Old Chapel in Chapel Street, Syston.

There are two main productions a year. We welcome those who enjoy acting, the technical side, props, stage management, costumes, etc.and we are always looking for new members. Visit our new website: www.qttheatregp.co.uk or email: qtsyston@gmail.com

TREES

Charnwood Tree Services

Tel: Freephone 0800 371 441. Tom’s Tree and Garden Services Mob: 0754 127 1584.

Unicorn Tree Care and Fencing For a FREE Quote contact Alan Tel: 0116 269 2039 Mob: 0778 359 6792.

WATER SPORTS CLUBS

Leicester Penguins Swimming Club

One of Leicestershire’s oldest competitive swimming clubs. If you are ready to transition to competitive swimming from the Learn to swim programme, please contact the club for a free trial session. For further information visit our website www.Leicesterpenguins.club

Wanlip Sailing Club

Small friendly local club. Learn to sail, just cruise or race. Families very welcome. Social sailing Saturdays, racing Sunday afternoons. For further information please contact Sue, daytime on 0116 210 2254. Neil, evenings on 0116 260 8049, or the clubhouse 0116 260 7864 at weekends to arrange a visit.

Clarity

WINDOW CLEANING

Windows, Doors, Facias, Conservatories and Guttering cleaned. To discover why people are switching cleaners, please contact us for a free friendly quote. M: 07533 991 561 www.really-clean.co.uk

Clean Start

Well Established, Professional Window Cleaner. Fully Insured and DBS Checked. Contact Wayne on M: 07977 505 453 or email: cleanstart200864@yahoo.com

WOMENS INSTITUTES (W.I.)

Barkby and Beeby W.I.

Meets third Tuesday of the month. Barkby Village Hall, Beeby Rd, Barkby 7.30pm. Visitors Welcome. For more information contact 0116269 2756

Charnwood Wigs W.I.

Meets last Thursday of the month at 7.30pm. Beedles Lakes Golf Club, East Goscote. Visitors £5.00. For more details please ring Claire Cox on M: 0775 164 2141

New Barkby W.I.

Meets First Wednesday in the month 7.30pm. Syston Community Centre, School Street. Visitors always welcome. For more details contact President Mrs Shirley Franklin on 0116 260 8498

Advertise your club/society or community event in our Green Pages and/or What’s on and we will add it here and on the webdiary too.

Ring Fiona or Deanna on 0116 269 3221 or email fiona@systontownnews.co.uk deanna@systontownnews.co.uk

What’s On Diary for JULY

BROADWAY GOSPEL HALL

Sunday 6th July

4.30pm

All Age Service followed by a buffet tea at Broadway Gospel Hall, Broadway, Syston Leicester LE7 1GA

There will be activities for the children during the service, everyone is welcome. For further information please email contact@broadwaygospelhall.org.ukor check the website: broadwaygospelhall.org.uk

FILMS IN SYSTON

Monday 7th July - The Best Man

The true story of a Jewish doctor who escapes to the UK during WWII and helps rehabilitate troops with spinal injuries. He lays the basis for the Paralympic Games.

NO FILM IN AUGUST

Doors open 1pm, film starts at 2pm at The Old Chapel, Chapel St. Syston.

COMMUNAL BINGO

Every Wednesday 2.00pm

Syston Conservative Club, High Street. Everyone Welcome.

Leicester U3A Meeting

Tuesday 8th July

2.30pm

Christchurch Clarendon ParkRoad LE22AH

Thespeaker will be Robert Leake. His talk is entitled 'Our Radio Days' and this will be the third time has entertained the U3A audience with both his previous talks being very well received. It promises to be a warm nostalgic trip back tothe radio shows of our younger days.

The U3A will then be having a summer break in August and will resume it's regular meetings in September.

ST PETER AND ST PAUL’S CHURCH CREAM TEAS

2.00pm to 4.00pm

Saturday 12th July - RJ Vocal group, a local choir will be singing.

Saturday 16th August - U3A Choir and VJ Day Anniversary Exhibition

Saturday 13th September - Ride and Stride

All proceeds from these events will go towards building our heating appeal pot. There will be forms in church if you also wish to sponsor a pew heater or something larger!

SYSTON LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

Monday 16th July

7.30pm

Speaker - Mark Temple - The Life and Crimes of Agatha Christie.

The Hub, Methodist Church Centre, High Street, Syston. Visitors £2 per meeting.

AUGUST

12.00noon to 6.00pm Syston Summer Fayre

Saturday 30thAugust Central Park

Fair Rides Charity Stalls

Gin Bar & Beer Tent

Plus Much More … Crafts & Gifts Scouts Food and Drink Stall Live Music on Stage Local Dance Groups Perform

Bring a Chair or a Blanket and Enjoy an Afternoon of Family Fun with Live Music and Dance

Cut through the digital noise with an advert in the Syston Town News THE POWER OF PRINT

Social media is great but print lasts!

To advertise YOUR BUSINESS contact 0116 269 3221 fiona@systontownnews.co.uk

Celebrating One Year of Community, Connection and Care at Our Day Centre

Radfield Home Care is proud to mark a heartwarming milestone – the oneyear anniversary of our much-loved Day Centre run from the East Goscote village hall. Over the past year, the centre has become a vital part of the local community, providing a safe, welcoming space for older adults to connect, engage, and thrive.

To celebrate this special occasion, Radfield Home Care hosted an anniversary event that was open to the public and full of joy, laughter, and community spirit. We were deeply honoured to welcome the Mayor, Councillor David Northage, and Mayoress Jenny Northage, who

kindly joined us for the celebration and had the privilege of cutting the anniversary cake, see images left and right while cutting the cake. The Mayor expressed his pleasure at the strong sense of community spirit and the fantastic turnout on the day. He spent time engaging with local organisations, volunteers, and attendees, recognising the significant impact the Day Centre has on the wellbeing and quality of life of those who attend. His encouraging words reinforced the value of community-based initiatives that support the elderly in meaningful ways.

The day was filled with celebration and activity – from live singing performances and interactive sessions to a fantastic array of stalls hosted by local charities and businesses. A heartfelt thank you goes to Syston District & Volunteer Centre, LOROS, Bradley Hall, and the Neighbourhood Mental Health Café for their presence and ongoing support.

The Day Centre runs every Wednesday from 10am to 2pm at East Goscote Hall, and is designed to provide stimulating and engaging experiences for older adults, particularly those who are less mobile or at risk of isolation. Each

week features a different theme, incorporating mentally stimulating activities alongside light physical exercises suitable for all abilities –including seated yoga, table tennis, arts and crafts, music, and more.

Since opening its doors, the Day Centre has become more than just a place to visit – it has become a lifeline. Attendees have built new friendships, rediscovered confidence, and found a renewed sense of purpose. Families and carers have also benefited, knowing their loved ones have a place to enjoy themselves while they take a wellearned break.

One of our regular attendees shared, “It is the highlight of my week.” And they’re not alone. A recent survey revealed that 100% of those attending the Continues on page 22

centre would strongly recommend it to their friends and families – a testament to the positive impact it continues to have.

In addition to running the Day Centre, Radfield Home Care specialises in supporting older adults within their own homes, offering a range of high-quality services tailored to individual needs. These include personal care, medication support, light household tasks, 24-hour care, companionship, and escorted outings. Radfield proudly serves Syston, Birstall, Thurmaston, Queniborough, East Goscote, Rearsby, Gaddesby, and Thrussington

To find out more information, please contact their office on 0116 481 0520

or email leicester. east@radfieldhomecare. co.uk

Their mission is simple yet powerful: to make ageing more enjoyable and to enable older people to remain living independently at home for as long as possible

As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to many more years of companionship, care, and community. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey so far – here's to another wonderful year ahead!

How Much Is Your Time Worth?

Want to reach over 7,000 households?

Then place an advert with Syston Town News

We will take time to get your advert as you want it.

Then delivery it to homes in Syston and surrounding villages. Contact us for more information and prices!

0116 269 3221 or email fiona@systontownnews.co.uk

Our mother lived in College Road, Syston with her family for 67 years, she moved into her bungalow in 1958 and she was the first and longest resident to live in College Road.

Her brother-in-law built her and her sister-in-laws’ bungalows.

Our mother collected for LOROS for many years, she had many friends at the Catholic Church, Broad Street, Syston.

The family would like to thank all the care assistants, nurses, doctors and friends. The Allen Family

Memorial Bench Placed on Deville Park in Memory of Local Resident

Janet Patricia Bowkett was born on Tuesday 11th February 1947 - 3rd January 2023.

She attended Granby Road Infant school before going on to Moats Girls School.

In 1963, at 16, Janet went on to study Nursing at The Leicester Royal Infirmary. She qualified as a state registered nurse at the hospital and then worked as a sister. She helped set up the Nuffield Private hospital in 1969, and also helped with establishing the maternity hospital within the Leicester Royal, where she then worked. She finished nursing in 1979.

1967 Janet met future husband Tony for the first time in the County Arms Pub and three years later they were married on Saturday 10th October 1970.

They had three children, sons James was born in 1974, Jonny in 1976, Matthew in 1980 and daughter Joanna in 1982.

Janet started working at Sesame Playgroup in 1988. She loved working with the children and it was here that she made some of her closest friends with both colleagues and parents. It shows how much of an important role she played in so many lives when people still come up to us and say they remember Janet looking after them at playgroup 30 years ago.

2002 Janet retired and then a new chapter began. Grandchildren and dogs! She loved spending time with all her grandchildren, Olivia, Jessica, Charlie, Faith, Hope, Katie and Ted, all of whom adored her. She would always have time for each and every one of them.

Over the years there had been multiple cats, the cat flap was at times like a revolving door. The family never really understood where they

all came from, but each was loved equally. Felix her diabetic cat was always a priority and her days of nursing came in very handy trying to administer the medicine as the family have all found out!

Football was a big part of Janet’s life. Not just supporting her children she was a huge Leicester City fan and the family know winning the Premiership meant a lot to her and made all the years of doom and gloom worthwhile. Janet as a wife, a mother, a mother in law, a grandparent and a friend was always there. For each and every one of us whenever and wherever. No exclusions, no excuses and this is what made her the amazing person she was. Janet was the one person who would never let you down and for that we are all so thankful. Thank You.

In memory of Janet, the family have had this beautiful bench made and gained permission to have it placed in Deville Park, as she used to walk the dogs there. See photographs below.

The close up of the plaque includes a picture of Janet with one of the dogs. Bench designed manufactured and supplied by Saiston Sheet Metal Ltd East Goscote.

Have Your Say Now on the Future of Local Councils

in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland

Residents, businesses and organisations are being urged to have a say on the future of local councils in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

An engagement exercise has been launched to gather views on proposals to reduce the number of councils in the area and replace them with larger unitary authorities.

The Government has requested councils in the area to develop plans to create new authorities as part of its devolution agenda.

The district and borough councils in Leicestershire and Rutland County Council have submitted to Government their interim North, City, South plan to create three equallysized unitary councils for the area. The councils say the plan will deliver devolution and see more decisionmaking powers and funding transferred to local areas from central government

The councils say they have put people and places at the heart of the proposal and focused on maintaining close contact with communities.

The councils are now seeking views on the plan. People can have a say between 9th June 2025 and 20th July 2025 by visiting https://www. northcitysouth.co.uk/get-involved. Paper copies of the survey are also available and other methods including focus groups are also being used.

Cllr Pip Allnatt, Leader of Melton Borough Council and speaking on behalf of the Leaders of the Leicestershire district and borough councils and Rutland County Council, said: “Councils in the area are facing the biggest change in over 50 years and it is vital our communities are involved in helping to shape the future of local government.

“We encourage people, businesses and organisations to take part in the survey and tell us their views on our plans.

“We do not think the current system is broken but we recognise the Government’s intent on change.

“This is the second time we have asked for views and earlier this year more than 4,600 people and organisations responded to our original survey to help inform our interim plan. We also had meetings and conversations with hundreds of other stakeholders.

“Our councils which have proposed the North, City, South plan have

made a pledge to make sure all voices are heard in this process and we will continue to make strenuous efforts to gather views from our communities and partners.

“Please have your say.”

The North, City, South plan outlines:

� The areas currently served by Charnwood, North West Leicestershire and Melton district and borough councils, and Rutland County Council, would be served by one unitary authority (North Leicestershire and Rutland)

� The areas currently served by Blaby, Harborough, Hinckley & Bosworth and Oadby & Wigston district and borough councils would be served by another unitary authority (South Leicestershire)

� Leicester City would continue to be a unitary authority

The North, City, South group says its plan will:

� Keep councils connected and accountable to local communities

� Simplify services for residents, businesses, and partners

� Protect and support the vulnerable and focus on prevention

� Deliver devolution and economic growth

� Boost efficiency, saving nearly £43 million a year

The importance of preserving Rutland’s historic ceremonial county status is also fully recognised in the plan, say the councils.

Following this engagement period, the councils will continue to refine the North, City, South proposal with a view to submitting a final plan to Government in November 2025.

It is anticipated Government will make a final decision on council structures in 2026 and new authorities could be in place by 2028. For more information about the North, City, South proposal and to have a say, visit https://www. northcitysouth.co.uk

Paper copies of the survey will be available at the offices of the councils involved in the North, City, South plan

- Blaby District Council, Charnwood Borough Council, Harborough District Council, Hinckley and Bosworth District Council, Melton Borough Council, North West Leicestershire District Council, Oadby and Wigston Borough Council, Rutland County Council.

Leicestershire County Council and Leicester City Council have also submitted interim plans to Government proposing alternative future council structures. People can find out more about their plans on their websites.

Leftovers Can Change Lives

At the Second Time Around Syston Community shop, in the Town Square, our community larder offers free essential items for those struggling or in need.

How often have you bought shampoo that doesn’t suit you and thrown it away after one use?

How often have you been given toiletries at Christmas that you’ll never use?

Do you have a kitchen cupboard full of tinned foods that just sit there?

Instead of throwing these items away or letting them expire, why not donate them to our community larder?

The cost of living is hitting some members of our community hard and as a community shop, we think it’s important to offer some free essential items to those who need them.

Recently, our community larder has been used more frequently and as such, we are in need of donations to keep it fully stocked Monday to Saturday from 9.00am until 3pm.

If you are in need or know someone who is struggling then please pop into the shop and see what’s available on the community larder, items are free to take.

As well as physically contributing to our community larder, please know that other donations are greatly appreciated to sell in our shop, such as books, clothing, accessories, brica-brac etc also helping to fund the stocking of the community larder.

We really appreciate every donation at Second Time Around Syston Community Shop and are very grateful to those who regularly donate to us.

Your donations go towards helping local members of the community, support groups and local fundraising events so please think of us when you’re having a clear out!

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Across

3. The date in July that the US celebrate Independence. (6)

4. Fossilised tree resin. Often used in Jewellery making. (5)

5. A form of book for Photographs to be inserted into. (5)

6. Narrow boats commonly travel along these. Venice is known for these. (6)

8. The state of being away from a place or person. (7)

10. Artists use these in their studios to hold their canvases. (5)

11. A garment worn for swimming, especially one worn by women and girls. (8)

13. Give or order the giving of something as an official payment, compensation, or prize to someone. (5)

15. A well known phrase mentions that this never changes it’s spots. (7)

17. A small, graceful, and swift African antelope, allied to the klipspringer. (6)

18. Notice or perceive something and register it as being significant. (7)

Down

1. A Japanese term for Cherry Blossoms. (6)

2. The king of the fairies in Medieval and Renaissance literature as well as Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. (6)

3. The annual men's multiple-stage bicycle race held primarily in this country. This year, it’ll be the first time since 2020 that the whole race will be in just this country. (6)

4. A big book of maps. (5)

7. A dish that consists of mixed ingredients,mostly vegetables. (5)

9. Surname of the late musician who created Ziggy Stardust. (5)

10. This is used to ask someone when they’ll arrive. (3)

12. The professional surname of The Beatles drummer, Ringo. (5)

14. A pinkish red to blood red coloured gemstone, the birthstone of July. (4)

15. A lion is commonly associated with this star sign. (3)

16. The name given for a female deer. (3)

The winner of the June 2025 Crossword is: C. Perkins of Syston

The answers for our June 2025 Crossword were:

Across:

1. Chessum; 3. Rose; 5. Prawn; 7. Bond; 8. Roast; 9. Cancer; 12. Eels; 16. Thatchers; 18. Dagenham; 19. Summer.

Down:

1. Cherries; 2. Monaco; 3. Robin; 4. Sense; 5. Pearl; 6. Asti; 10. Ceremony; 11. Reusable; 13. Stream; 14. Father; 15. Scampi; 17. Manu.

Keep The Beach, Avoid The Earache Summer reminds us how a bit of warmth and blue skies can lift the mood. Many look forward to summer adventures and a chance to take a break or spend time with loved ones. It’s time to get organised: children have grown out of swimsuits, you’ve ran out of sun lotion and everyone needs new holiday clothes. But one thing that may not be top of your list is your ears.

We’ve seen lots of people recently who have come for hearing wellness checks or wax removal because they’ve had holidays ruined in the past due to ear problems.

Holidays and Hearing issues

Every year in the hearing profession we see people returning from holidays with similar stories of woe:

� Ears blocked and couldn’t hear for the rest of the holiday

� Painful ear infection and had to find a doctor / pharmacy on holiday

� Ears painful on the flights or after landing

It’s no fun when you’ve been looking forward to and saving for your holiday all year. Anyone with experience of a painful ear infection will tell you how excruciating it can be, whilst it’s not ideal having to work out how to access a doctor and get hold of prescribed medications when you’re supposed to be topping up your tan. Instead of chilled drinks on the lounger between cooling swims, you’re stuck with antibiotics and painkillers, can’t hear properly with a discharging ear and really don’t feel like doing anything. Why does this happen?

Wax is often the issue which can swell when it gets wet. You may have a partial wax blockage but be unaware. Being in and out of the sea or pool on holiday means the chances of it swelling is much greater. Once wax swells and blocks the ear canal that’s it – you can’t hear properly and may notice unsteadiness, tinnitus as well as discomfort and irritation. If you rub the ear, tilt or shake the head it may be possible to temporarily resolve things, however at this point any desperate attempts to remove wax often result in pushing it deeper and compacting it further. What about infections?

If sea water or pool water isn’t particularly clean or sterile, the chances of contracting an infection increase when this water enters the ear canals. Even if ears are clear this can occur, but if there is wax present it may be absorbed, meaning the water is sitting in your ear canal and giving a great opportunity to

any pesky potential infections. It is so strongly correlated that some medical professionals call this “Swimmers ear”. Even worse if your wax swells and blocks the ear completely, trapping dirty water deep between the blockage and your ear drum. This creates lovely conditions for an ear infection to flourish and increases the likelihood of it becoming a nasty infection. Most mild outer ear infections don’t cause lasting damage to your hearing, but if more severe they can become middle ear infections which can cause lasting damage to your hearing or make you more prone to future ear infections and hearing problems. What can you do?

If you experience loss of hearing, ear pain, discharge, dizziness or tinnitus you should seek prompt medical advice. If an infection is brewing, you can reduce the severity of symptoms and chances of lasting damage.

Being proactive before you go is your best bet. Swimming plugs may be a good option if you are prone to issues, or you might choose to use sprays which help water dispel and reduce the chances of it sitting in your ears.

Hearing specialists often provide ear health appointments, which are advisable a week or two before you travel in case any treatment or interventions are needed. If you suspect anything it might be worth you getting checked. Any wax blockage or ear health issues can be identified and dealt with in advance, giving you confidence to jet off and enjoy without worrying about your ears.

Citizens Advice Charnwood Offer Some Advice to Those Looking for Work

‘My son and I are both struggling to find work at the moment. He’s just finished university and looking for his first job, and I’m retired but need to top up my income. We’ve both been sending out applications for a while now, could unpaid work help us find something?’

Whether you’re trying to get into work for the first time or after time off, finding a job can be really challenging. It’s always a good idea to think about what skills or experience you could be missing for the kind of work you want, especially when feeling stuck after weeks or months of sending out job applications.

If you can afford to take unpaid work, it can be a good way to plug gaps in your CV and get a taste for different types of jobs. These sorts of roles usually come in the form of volunteering, work experience, or internships.

Heart of England Chorus Invites You

Best wishes from the Heart of England Chorus for a fabulous summer. The weather is certainly living up to our English reputation of being unpredictable. However, we have had some very warm sunny days so let’s hope we get some more and we can all get out and socialise.

Let me start by telling you a little bit about our Chorus and you may want to come along and see what we do. Singing is only a part of this, it’s a chance to meet and make new friends, join in with social evenings and enjoy regular cakes.

If you receive welfare benefits, you should check the Citizens Advice website - https://www.citizensadvice. org.uk/benefits/benefits-introduction/ how-volunteering-affects-your-benefits/ before taking unpaid work. And because the rules around unpaid internships are complicated, you should also check the Citizens Advice website - https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ work/pay/getting-paid-less-than-minimum-wage-or-livingwage/ before applying for this type of role. If you would prefer to speak to someone our Advisers can help on 01509 649 605.

The Heart of England Chorus is a four part harmony barber shop style chorus comprising of both male and female members.

The group was started more than 50 years ago by Roy Phillips. Over the

Volunteer roles are often well-defined and can expose you to specific types of work, whether you’re looking for experience in an office or something more practical like supporting people in your local community. Charities, including Citizens Advice, usually have a range of opportunities available. For more general information visithttps://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/information/ becoming-a-volunteer-at-citizens-advice/ Being a volunteer doesn’t just give you a chance to learn and improve skills that are transferable to paid work, it can also help you gain confidence and self-esteem in a professional setting, and provide structure to your day or week. This can set you up well for job applications and interviews by showing employers you’ve got transferable skills, relevant experience, and are ready to enter paid work.

Volunteering at Citizens Advice Charnwood

Our volunteers are at the heart of our service and we welcome people from all backgrounds.

We currently have 54 volunteers who live in and around the Charnwood area and who give over 200 hours per week to run our core service.

They volunteer with us for different reasons but most would agree they find the work both challenging and rewarding, particularly when it can have such a positive impact on local people's lives.

For more information, including how to apply, please visit our website https://www.charnwoodcab.org.uk/volunteeringand-jobs or you can email: training@charnwoodcab.co.ukand our Volunteer Support & Training Officer, Denise, will be happy to give you a call.

years a number of Roy’s family have been involved with the group. His son Ian is currently our Musical Director and Ian’s wife Sarah, his son John and his daughter Amy are all members. Its fabulous to see so many people of one family active in the group and all making a positive contribution.

Barber shop style singing may not be something you might have considered joining in with but it’s not too late however old (or young) you are. We are a non-audition group so no pressure to feel you are being scrutinised, and obviously as part of a larger number of singers you can blend in or shine out within your own comfort zone. I’m not saying its easy to learn four part harmonies, but when we get it right it sounds amazing.

We perform in different settings which we thoroughly enjoy, singing just lightens the heart and makes people smile. Whether we are performing at concerts, Residential Homes, Christmas fetes or other venues, we all enjoy seeing positive audience reactions.

We meet every Monday at Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane, Birstall from 7.30pm to 10.00pm. We would be delighted to see some new faces. So, if you just want to see what we do, or are looking to join our group then please feel free to pop along any Monday evening. Alternately please contact John Phillips on 0773 852 6757 to have a chat.

Start your Journey with a healthy smile

We provide a range of treatments suchas:

From left to right. Ian Phillips, Amy, John, Sarah