Syston Town News Your Independent Community Newspaper October 2025

MADS Group Celebrates Five Years

Bric a Brac elsewhere.

Well what a month we had. The preparations for the Syston Summer Fayre were a success.

We celebrated five years of the MADS Group and now we look forward to finding more ways to help the group and to raise more funds.

Syston Summer Fayre

The Syston Summer Fayre was fantastic and it was such a turnout and we raised £280 (Our most raised at the Syston Summer Fayre yet) with the amount still rising from selling our excess Summer Fayre

By the time we are finished, we will have raised over £300 if not much more for our group which is incredible. The support and donations from the community have helped us reach this incredible milestone and we couldn't have achieved this without all of your thoughtful donations. We want to say a big thank you to all of you who have supported us and continue to support us through our journey.

MADS Group turns five

Our first session officially started on Wednesday 9th September 2020 and at this point we were worried if the group was even going to be successful or not due to the COVID19 pandemic just hitting us but the Syston Community Centre allowed us to keep running our sessions under

government guidelines as it was understood that people would still need help and support through COVID and it turned out everyone needed it more than ever. We never thought that after the pandemic it would become what it has become today.

Chairwoman Bev Johnson said: “What I thought was going to be a coffee morning to help people for a short while has amazingly turned into five years.” Both Bev and Vice Chair, George Blount, have said: “Thank you to everyone who attends and also thanks for all the support and donations over the years”

One of our volunteers have also said: “You have all done an amazing job helping so many people.”

I am so incredibly proud of what my mum and George have created and to see this group grow from strength to strength is incredible to see.

To have an amazing team behind us makes it so much better and I want to Continues on page 2

L to R: Emma (Volunteer), George (Vice Chair), Lillie (Head Volunteer),Bev (Chair), Biba (Volunteer), Deanna (Media and PR) and Mark (Cash Handler)

Continued from Front Page

take a moment to thank our volunteer team. Lillie, Emma, Suzanne, and Biba. All of our volunteers are a very crucial part of our team and without all of you, we couldn't do what we do today and I want to thank you for all the hard work you have put in and continue to put in.

On Wednesday 10th September, we all celebrated five years of MADS together with a lovely spread of food prepared by Carl Petch and some music. A lot of long time members were sat trying to remember and reminisce when they first joined the MADS Group. Everyone had a fantastic time and it was lovely to see everyone laughing, talking and having fun as we enjoyed the atmosphere.

We all had a lovely group photo together before the end of the

session. This is only a handful of the members we usually have. Some of them couldn't make it, or just didn't want their photo taken. (Due to safeguarding and their circumstances, some members have their faces blocked out with a cute little smiley face.)

To reach five years is a huge milestone for us and we are so happy to have the chance to provide a safe space like this for the community of Syston and long may it continue.

Written by Deanna Johnson - Media and PR for MADS Group

[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.]

Syston Resident Achieved His Challenge

In the August issue we featured George Greenhill, pictured left, a Syston resident who set himself a challenge to run 10k every day in August to raise funds for MIND. George has let us know that he achieved this and has raised £1527 for the charity. He ran a total of 397.04km (246 miles), including a 26.84 mile run from the Tigers Stadium to the Nottingham Forest one in 3 hours, nine minutes eighteen seconds. Well Done George!

Please help keep our Parks and Streets Clean and Safe!

Use waste bins provided throughout Syston to dispose of your rubbish! OR take it home!

Dog Owners Clean up after your dog.

Celebration and Community Spirit Mark the Reopening of St Michael and All Angels CE PrimarySchool

throughout the celebration. The event also attracted media attention, with the BBC reporting live and interviewing pupils about their experiences.

Neil Bardsley, Executive Headteacher, said:

On Friday 5th September, St Michael and All Angels CE Primary School in Rearsby proudly celebrated the grand reopening of its newly refurbished and renovated facilities.

The event was a day of joy, community spirit, and celebration, with families, local businesses, and members of the community gathering to explore the refreshed school environment. The school was especially honoured to welcome The Mayor, pictured above with whose presence marked the occasion as a truly memorable milestone.

Entertainment was provided by the Ratby Co-Operative Band, pictured above, whose uplifting music created a vibrant and festive atmosphere

“We are absolutely delighted to reopen the doors of St Michael and All Angels CE Primary School after the devastating floods. The grand opening was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with our pupils, families, staff, and the wider community. Our newly improved facilities will ensure we can continue to provide the very best learning environment, and we look forward to this new chapter with pride and excitement.”

The school is now fully open and ready to continue its mission of providing an inspiring and supportive learning environment for all its pupils.

Members of the public are warmly invited to attend their Open Day tours to explore the newly renovated facilities, meet the staff, and learn more about the exciting opportunities at St Michael and All Angels CE Primary School. For more information or to book a tour, please visit https:// www.stmichaels.leics.sch.uk/ or contact 01664 424 453.

Be Safe At Night

Winter Nights are approaching! Please be safe at night and wear something light while out walking.

Cyclists please ensure you have working lights switched on and wear reflective garments! Be Seen!

THE POWER OF PRINT

A New Website for the Great Central Railway

Great Central Railway is delighted to announce the launch of its brand-new website, designed to offer a cleaner, more intuitive user experience while celebrating the legacy of Britain’s only double track, main line heritage railway.

Drawing design inspiration from the golden age of railway tourism and the classic railway posters of the 20th century, the site offers a refreshed, streamlined experience for visitors, supporters, and railway enthusiasts alike and is part of a wider brand refresh that the unique heritage railway has been undertaking throughout 2025.

Showcasing stunning photography contributed by the railway’s own volunteers, the site offers an improved booking process for tickets, events, and experiences. It also features indepth information about the railway’s remarkable history, including its impressive home fleet of heritage steam and diesel locomotives. Visitors can now more easily explore the wide range of activities available at Great Central Railway — from hands-on “Drive a Train” adventures to First Class Dining experiences like the popular Murder Mystery Specials, guided tours, and family-focused events that continue to make the railway one of Leicestershire’s most beloved attractions.

More than just a digital upgrade, the launch coincides with a new era of education and storytelling across the

railway. A new Welcome Centre at Loughborough Station now features curated storytelling boards that chart the railway’s history and importance, and new interpretive panels in the Loughborough Engine Shed further enhance guided tours by offering a closer look at the workings of steam. In a further nod to railway heritage, a series of collectible, historically inspired handbills and loco information boards — designed in period style — have been introduced to help bring the stories of the line to life. The railway has also launched a new Explorer Ticket, complete with a treasure hunt style activity pack, designed to encourage children and families to explore the site while learning about railway history in a fun and interactive way.

The new website also makes it easier than ever to support the railway’s preservation efforts. Whether through volunteering, donating, or getting involved in long-term plans like the Reunification Project — which aims to reconnect the two halves of the Great Central Railway to create an 18-mile heritage line stretching from Leicester North to Ruddington — supporters can now access all the information they need in one place.

“We are incredibly proud to launch this new website as a gateway to everything Great Central Railway has to offer,” said Malcolm Holmes, General Manager at Great Central Railway. “It represents a major step forward in our digital presence but also symbolises our commitment to honouring the past whilst building an even more exciting future for generations to come.”

The new website can be viewed at www.gcrailway. co.uk

Happy Halloween 31st October

Remember to Stay Safe and Respect those who do not want to participate in Trick or Treat.

WHY ADVERTISE IN YOUR LOCAL PAPER?

You are reading this advert and your potential customers could be reading it too.

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

Based at East Goscote

With over 20 years experience we have built a reputation you can trust!

The Malt House Club

Tales from the Plot for October

Here we go it feels like we’re really now on the run down to winter, the days are noticeably shorter, the sun is lower in the sky and temperatures are dropping. Leaves are changing colour and beginning to fall and you are likely to get the first proper frosts.

We Have Two Full Sized Snooker Tables in the Club

Quiz Nights: Sunday 12th October

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

Slimming World

Helen 9.30am and 11.30am Mob: 0794 912 3898

Clive 3.30pm, 5.15pm and 7pm Mob: 0790 983 7215

At this time of year most of the work is mainly clearing away and composting the remains of the summers harvest, try to remove all dead foliage and old, dying plants and add it all to the compost. Clear away bean pole canes - if you can find somewhere dry to store them they can last many years, usually only the bottom rots so they can be shortened and used again for shorter plants.

I use weed suppressant membrane to cover areas that I have no use for over the winter, this keeps weed growth at bay and allows you to sow earlier next spring, it saves work which is always a bonus. As far as the potatoes are concerned the old way is to lift them and leave the crop to dry in the sun. This 'curing' hardens the skins, and the tougher the skins the longer they will store. In the past I’ve preferred the more idle approach and just leave mine in and take them as I want them but last year this practice was disastrous, we had some very early severe frosts and much of my crop rotted in the ground so I will lift mine and store in hessian sacks. Earth up leeks and celery to keep the stems blanched, I might be speaking too soon but my leeks are looking rather good this year, during the dry spell they stopped growing and I did an old trick of cutting them off about six inches above the soil, I watered them and fed them and wow! what a differencethey really took off. Definitely a practice worth remembering.

crop for next year hoping for a repeat performance.

Cabbages - last chance this year for transplanting spring cabbages, plant them in ground that has been well firmed and cover with nets to protect from birds, especially pigeons, you can now plant garlic cloves as long as they are not in a waterlogged area they will overwinter, the longer they are in the ground the bigger next years bulbs will be for harvesting so I’m told. I must be the worst garlic grower in the country, I’ve never succeeded, including the times I’ve meticulously followed the practices of those that do succeed mine always fail so I should give no advice on growing garlic.

Rhubarb should be entering the dormant period from now until March, so now is the best time to plant new sets or divide and replant old crowns, I guess I’m rather selfish regarding rhubarb several of the plot holders around me grow rhubarb, most have told me to help myself as they get far too much so I’ve never bothered to grow any myself lol.

IAN DAVISON

Use cloches to cover and protect any late sown crops, especially salad crops, continue picking apples and pears and cook or eat any that are damaged straight away: only store perfect fruit, any that are blemished will simply rot and infect the others stored.

Broad beans: you can now sow seeds of early varieties, they should overwinter and give you a crop in the following June, this works for some but not for me, I’ll delay planting mine until February. I had an excellent crop this year and all from seed I’d saved from the year before. I’ve saved some of the seed from this year’s

Don’t forget we change the clocks at the end of this month and bonfires are allowed down the allotments provided they’re within two hours of dusk, it can be a very pleasant thing to do especially with a couple of potatoes wrapped in foil left in the embers, a great thing to experience with your grandchildren (don’t forget the butter). Unsurprisingly bonfires have caused problems in the past Syston Allotments are surrounded by private houses and filling them with smoke does not help our image, remember we all want the allotments to remain in Syston for future generations, there have been offers made in the past by builders for the allotment land and no doubt more will come in the future, the last thing we want is surrounding residents complaining to the council about the allotments so try and choose a miserable cold day, near sun set, that way most of the houses have windows and doors closed, and hopefully no washing on the line!

Richard Thorpe

Plot 15B Syston Allotments

Syston Pre Loved Pages Bookclub Going from Strength to Strength

Written by Claire Suzanne

After turning the first few pages of The Storm, Gemma Denham’s descriptive and immersivewriting had drawn me in. I admit, I was hooked. I would walk away, only to find myself buried inthe book five minutes later! So, I was excited to attend our monthly Age UK book club meetingwhere we were honoured to receive a visit from Gemma herself - a local writer and illustratorwho has published both children’s and adult’s fiction. The Storm being her debut novel,published in June 2025. As a student in the middle of a

Creative Writing degree, the opportunity to chat to a publishedauthor was not to be missed. I was itching to find out more about breaking into the world ofwriting. After all, many short stories and a full-length novel are sat cluttering up the hard drive onmy computer, with nowhere else to go. How does an unpublished writer become published?Where do you go? What do you do?

All these questions were answered by Gemma, as well as providing many writing tips: fromgaining inspiration, researching and marketing, to making notes on shopping bags - Gemma haddone it all. My ambition to become an author was reignited!

The book club meet on the first Monday of each month, where we spend two hours chatting andlaughing in the lovely Age UK Syston Bookshop. The evening is primarily focused on thegenre/author of choice. A new genre is chosen at each meeting, and members read a copy fromthe store throughout the month, ready to discuss our thoughts at the next meeting.

Last month, the genre was classics, giving us a chance to discover a title we’ve perhaps alwayswanted to read but haven’t found the time. In my

case, I decided to re-live my school days andpicked To Kill a Mockingbird – a book I studied for my GCSEs back in the 90s, yet life experiencehas changed the way I read and interpret the important messages within the story.

Discussion is always insightful as it creates an opportunity to consider different viewpoints andgain inspiration to leave our comfort zones and try something new. We are always open tosuggestions, usually by members who recommend their own favourites.

Since the book club opened earlier this year we have covered many genres: fantasy, romance,crime, with many more to come. Members are welcome to bring in their favourite reads todiscuss, and, of course, we have enjoyed visits from local authors.

One of the many things I love about book club is the variety of people who attend. The book clubwelcomes everyone – all ages and reading abilities. We understand life gets busy. You can whizzthrough three books a week or one per month, it doesn’t matter; even if you don’t get the chanceto finish reading, there is no pressure. There are always people to chat to and delicioushomemade cakes to devour.

Now, I’m off to relax with a cuppa and find out whodunnit in The Storm.

Donation to Syston and District Volunteer Centre from

Second Time Around Community shop

Second Time Around Community shop in the Town Squarehave today given a donation to Syston and District Volunteer Centre for all their hard work within the community. We have a lot of lovely local people who pop in our shop and say what a lifeline the centre is to them, by way of transport, from people who rely on them for their essential hospital visits to people who fancy their lunch at the hobby horse and need occasional transport to get there so they can

socialise for a couple of hours and just feel less isolated, also the wonderful trip recently on the canal boat for some ladies was a joy. We hear lots of stories in the shop of wonderful organisations in Syston and how they help, and the Volunteer Centre is one of them who are an invaluable source to many and hope our donation helps a little towards them being a mainstay for many years to come.

The picture, courtesy of Second Time Around, below left shows Andy Shelton, Centre Manager with the cheque from Second Time around. Thank you from us all at Second Time Around Community Shop in the Town Square.

Also, thank you to the people of Syston for their donations into our shop so that we can continue to donate to local causes, we always welcome clothing, handbags, shoes, bric a brac, books, household to resell in the shop as well as being home to the the community larder which has tinned produce, pasta, baby food and toiletries for those in need.

Syston High Street Stomp 2025

Dave Noseley from the Pharmacie Arms has brought together the five pubs/clubs along High Street, Syston to provide different activities across five days from Wednesday 29th October until Sunday 2nd November in aid of LOROS.

Each day, each venue will offer something different including: Beer Festivals, Tap Takeovers, Food, Prosecco and Cocktails, Live Music and Quizzes.

You can record your visits to the different venues on a card that will be stamped by each individual pub or club. If you visit every one across the stomp you will be able to exchange your completed card at the end of the event to receive a limited edition badge as a token of your support of the High Street Stomp 2025. For further details of what is on during the five day Syston High Street Stomp please visit the facebook page: www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61579772814952

Or open Facebook and search for Syston High Street Stomp. What a great idea to bring people together in Syston and help a local Charity at the same time.

Well Done Dave.

Timeless Connections Celebrate 1st Anniversary

On Thursday 4th September the Stn was invited to join the party to celebrate Timeless Connections 1st anniversary of opening.

This cafe for people living with dementia and their carers has been operational for one year on this date. It was a pleasure to be invited to be a part of the party.

The Hub cafe at the Methodist Church was full to standing room only making for a wonderful atmosphere. There was a wonderful array of cakes, plus sandwiches, crisps and drinks.

Before the buffet was opened, three regular attendees gave their thanks to Raj, Michelle and Lady Raj for all

their work each week in the past year to provide this wonderful safe space for people living with Dementia. They praised the support given, which can be just having someone to talk to about what happened that day, to having a laugh with the other participants. They all said that they looked forward to Thursday afternoons so they can attend and know that everyone is safe, so they can relax and have some respite. Tracey said a few words congratulating Raj and the other helpers for making Timeless Connections a joyous place to visit and also a place where people can gain help in an informal setting. It is very welcoming and inclusive. She also read out a message from Paul Lomas who was unable to attend but sent a lovely message to everyone on this special occasion. Raj said: “This celebration is not just about marking a milestone in time,it is about honouring the incredible people who have filled the café with warmth, loyalty, and compassion. It is their presence, their stories, and their kindness that have made the café what it is today.”

Syston’s Only Dedicated Newspaper

From Fish Fillets to Fascinators, Anything Can Happen at Ladies’ Day!

one of the funniest plays we’ve read in a while.

Set in 2005, the play captures a unique moment in British history; the year Royal Ascot temporarily relocated from its traditional Berkshire home to York, marking only the second time in its history the event wasn’t held at Ascot. It was a year of big headlines as well, Queen Elizabeth II was still on the throne, Charles and Camilla had just tied the knot, and singer Tony Christie’s “Is This the Way to Amarillo” was back at the top of the charts (we won’t blame you if the tune’s now stuck in your head!).

As the nights draw in, it’s time to say goodbye to our QT summer break and turn our attention to something exciting - our November production!

We’re thrilled to announce that from Tuesday 25th to Friday 28th November 2025, Syston QT Theatre Group will be performing Amanda Whittington’s brilliantly funny comedy ‘Ladies’ Day’ at The Old Chapel in Syston.

If you’ve been following Syston QT, you’ll know we have a soft spot for comedy plays, and ‘Ladies’ Day’ is

‘Ladies’ Day’ follows four friends working in a fish-filleting factory in Hull who seize the opportunity to swap their everyday routines for a glamorous day out at Royal Ascot. With champagne flowing, bets placed, and secrets shared, their adventure unfolds with laughter, heart, and unexpected revelations. Beneath the sparkle lies a touching tale of friendship, dreams, and the truths we only share with those closest to us.

‘Ladies’ Day’ is one of the most performed plays on the amateur theatre circuit, and Syston QT are delighted to be bringing this play to Syston for the very first time. We

already know that our audiences old and new will fall in love with Pearl, Jan, Shelley, and Linda just as we have.

Our cast features a fantastic mix of familiar faces and exciting newcomers, and rehearsals are now underway. The rehearsal room is buzzing with new scripts, new energy, old friends, and a shared sense of excitement as we try to figure out how we fit Royal Ascot into the Old Chapel! – don’t worry, no horses or Jockeys will be harmed in the process.

Tickets for ‘Ladies’ Day’ will be on sale very soon, so keep an eye on our social media and website for updates. You’ll also find further details in the next edition of Stn. We can’t wait to see you in November for lots of laughs and big hats!

Leigh White – Director

VITAMIN D AND GUMS

Vitamin D is o�en linked to bone health and immune func�on, but it’s also an important player in maintaining the health of your gums. This is why you should make sure you’re ge�ng enough of this essen�al vitamin.

How Vitamin D Supports Gum Health

Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is vital for strong teeth and bones. But it does more than just support tooth structure – it also plays a direct role in figh�ng gum disease. In periodontal disease, the gums become inflamed because of the presence of bacteria. Vitamin D helps regulate your immune system, ensuring that the response to this infec�on is controlled. Vitamin D helps your body fight off the bacteria causing gum disease.

Vitamin D and Immune Func�on

A strong immune system is be�er able to fight infec�ons, including those that affect the gums. Research has shown that people with low levels of vitamin D are more likely to experience gum disease and tooth loss, as their immune response isn’t as effec�ve in controlling bacteria in the mouth.

The Link Between Low Vitamin D and Gum Disease

Studies have shown that individuals with low levels of vitamin D are more likely to experience periodontal disease, including symptoms like bleeding gums, gum recession, and bone loss around teeth. While vitamin D alone isn’t a cure-all for gum disease, it’s certainly an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to preven�on. It works alongside good oral hygiene prac�ces and regular dental visits to keep your gums in

excellent shape.

How Much Vitamin D Do You Need?

Most people can’t get enough vitamin D through sunlight exposure in the UK. As a result, you are likely to need to top up your levels with food or supplements. Current recommenda�ons are that all adults get 10 micrograms (mcg) or 400IU of vitamin D per day. Good sources of dietary vitamin D include:

• Sunlight (10-30 minutes of exposure several �mes a week)

• Fa�y fish, like salmon, mackerel, and sardines

• Eggs

• For�fied foods like breakfast cereals and plant-based milk

By taking care of your vitamin D levels and maintaining a solid oral hygiene rou�ne, you’ll be giving your gums the best chance to stay healthy.

Dr Dhroov is a den�st with a special interest in periodontology (gum disease). He has completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Periodontology with RW Perio on Harley Street in 2024 and is currently working towards an MSc in Specialist Prac�ce of Periodontology. Dhroov can tailor your oral regime to make sure everything is customised to your benefit. He will be offering periodontal support treatments at Green Dental from September where he will be accep�ng referrals from den�sts as well self-referrals. If you are worried about your gums or would like to book a consulta�on, please call us on 0116 260 4604.

0116 260 4604

Syston’s Only Dedicated Newspaper

North, City, South Council Leaders Cannot Support City Boundary Expansion in Draft Reorganisation Plan

Council Leaders driving a bold plan for new council structures in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland say they will be recommending that the Leicester city boundary should not be changed when councils are reorganised in 2028.

The Leaders of the Leicestershire district councils and Rutland County Council have been supporting the development of the North, City, South plan which proposes three unitary councils for the area in response to the Government’s drive to reorganise councils.

An interim plan was submitted to Government in March, and a final submission is due in by 28th November 2025.

Leicester City Council also submitted an interim plan to Government which proposed two unitary councils and a plan to expand the city boundary into parts of Blaby, Charnwood, Harborough and includes all of Oadby and Wigston. Should Government accept this proposal, the city population would increase by two thirds to over 620,000 residents.

However, the Leaders of the North, City, South Group of councils say there’s no strong business case, including financial rationale, for changing the city boundary. A summer engagement exercise showed strong support for their proposal and considerable opposition to the city boundary expansion. They’re also concerned the change would add complexity and risk delaying devolution and its associated funding.

The Leaders say that due to public interest in the City boundary issue, they wanted to let communities and stakeholders know their view.

No decision on the final proposal has yet been made. All eight councils in the North, City, South Group will be considering the final version of the North, City, South proposal across a

series of meetings in the coming months ahead of the final submission date. Rutland County Council is also considering reorganisation proposals relating to South Lincolnshire, ensuring all potential options are fully explored before any final decision is reached.

The North, City, South Group says its proposal has put people and places at the heart of future council structures. The plan proposes:

� 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 based on its existing boundaries.

The group says its plan:

� Creates three equally balanced councils, each serving round 400,000

� Keeps councils connected and accountable to local communities

� Uses existing boundaries to avoid complex, costly and disruptive changes

� Protects and supports the vulnerable and focuses on prevention

� Delivers devolution and economic growth

� Boosts efficiency, saving nearly £43 million a year

� Meets Government criteria for local government reorganisation and devolution.

Cllr Pip Allnatt, Leader of Melton Borough Council and speaking on behalf of the Leaders of the North,

City, South councils, said:

“We are continuing to shape our final proposal based on evidence, data, and community engagement, but wanted to let communities know that as Leaders, we are of the view that the city boundary should not change in our final submission.

“Clearly, the proposal still needs to be considered by our fellow councillors.

“We understand the city council’s ambition for growth, but the Leaders believe that by delivering devolution quickly and collaboratively, we can support growth and deliver economic improvements across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

“A key strength of the North, City, South proposal is the way it has been developed and supported by eight councils led by different political groups. It’s support crosses borders and politics to do what we firmly believe is best for our communities.

“We also understand that not everyone wants councils to change. We do not believe local government is broken, but we recognise the Government is committed to reform and we want to secure the best outcomes for our communities.”

For more information about the North, City, South proposal, visit www.northcitysouth.co.uk.

Happy Halloween 31st October

Remember to Stay Safe and Respect those who do not want to participate in Trick or Treat.

A

REGISTERED PLUMBER

Call Mr Driver

Tel: 0116 271 3334

Mob: 0777 351 4619 ANYTIME

SYSTON POST OFFICE

14 High Street, Syston Telephone: 0116 260 3765

WE ARE OPEN ALL DAY

• Car Tax

• Bureau de Change Travel Insurance

• Passport checking service

All Financial and Saving Products

Along with all your Postal needs.

Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 9.00am to 5.30pm

Shop Open For Lottery • Cards

• Stationery and Confectionery

Health Prac��oners

Dip M.P.S Pract Member of Society of Foot Health Prac��oners

Toe Nails Cut & Filed, Thick Nails Reduced Removal of Hard Skin, Callus & Corns Ingrowing Toe Nails Any Foot Problems Welcome Also Offering: Finger Nails Cut & Filed Fully Qualified & Insured with 20 Years Experience

A Mobile Service in Your Own Home

Rebecca 07739 364 738 or Rachael 07971 159 147

Susan Gamble

Susan Gamble sadly passed away peacefully on 7th August 2025, aged 82. She was a much loved wife to the late Edward Gamble who died in 2006. A beloved mother to David and Ruth, and cherished grandmother to Joseph and Ben.

Susan’s funeral took place on 1st September at Syston Cemetery where a simple burial and service took place in line with her wishes. Susan was born in Leicester and raised/lived in StratfordRoad in Braunstone with her parents, her older brother David and younger sister Margaret.

She met her husband to be Edward Gamble in the early sixties when he was playing bass guitar in a local band. They married in 1965 and Susan then moved to Syston where she has lived happily for 60 years. She worked for Leicester City Council and Freeman, Hardy & Willis for a number of years before the arrival of her children David and Ruth, then she joined her husband working in the family funeral business, G. E. Gamble & Sons until Edward retired.

Susan was well know in Syston being an active member in numerous groups including Brooksby Gardening club, New Barkby WI, Workers Educational Association (WEA) and Leicester Arts Society.

She was a very active lady joining friends for a weekly walk, a yoga group and played tennis at Northfields tennis club in her younger years.

Susan used to deliver the Syston Town News in the area where she lived. She regularly attended St Peter and St Paul’s church, where she embroidered a beautiful alter cloth, completed a number of cross stick kneelers and tended to the church garden.

Susan also enjoyed travel, good food and the occasional glass of wine or whisky.

She was a very private, kind and loving person and she will greatly missed by her family and friends.

Arrive without a friend and leave with many.

What do you think U3A means to you? Would you believe there is more to it than just the word SYSTON? Live outside Syston? No problem you can still join. We are friendly and fun loving, active and social. Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin (how many of you remember ‘listening with Mother’).

The official title is ‘University of the Third Age’. Oh no, please don’t go because of the U word. This organisation has no requirement to have one nor does it award any, so stay, relax and read on. You will find U3A branches throughout the UK and also overseas. It is a welcoming organisation for those who work less than full time and I mean anyone. Believe it or not this is a non-profit making Charity. Group running costs are low and any revenue from membership subscriptions or one off organised ‘events’ are used to benefit members. There is a free Christmas social, a contribution to help set up new groups, provision of some promotional and safety wear and much more. Organising and running any local U3A is entirely voluntary by members. Everyone offering what they can do or are best at, to contribute to a positive and satisfying experience for others. Too much free time? Too many jobs and no fun? Lack the mental stimulation of full time work? Too little interaction with others? Aim to continue being physically active? Keen to embrace the opportunity for change? There are approximately 40 different types of groups in the Syston and District U3A which fall into many categories and you can join as many as you can find time for. Do you have Individual knowledge or simply a latent interest in something? A subject or activity which isn’t offered yet – start it! Have I tempted you to find out more? Everyone will have their own reason to consider attending our monthly social meeting on Wednesday 8th October from 10.00am at Syston Community Centre. Come and meet our non scary, friendly, lovely Greeter ladies who will guide you to someone to explain more, enjoy a hot drink and listen to a Speaker who will give us an insight on Acupuncture. There is another meeting on 12th November for a return to safe Foraging. First attendance is free before U3A membership is required. Enjoy.

You can also discover more through our website systonu3a.org.uk, find us on Facebook systonu3a, our video is also there on YouTube or phone on 0300 102 1381. So many reasons to become a U3A member for an annual fee of £15.

Goscote Dance Studios Celebrates 40 Years!

In a heartwarming celebration of four decades of dance, dedication and community, Goscote Dance Studios marked its 40 year anniversary with a fantastic performance at Disneyland Paris on Sunday 17th August 2025. The dance school, based in Syston, brought 36 dancers to the happiest place on earth for a weekend filled with memories and of course- dance! Dressed in spectacular costumes the dancers performed within the heart of Disneyland Paris at the Videopolis Theatre. The routines were high energy and captivating with comments from the Disney performing arts team of the dancers being ‘Exceptionally professional and well -trained’. For many of the young dancers, some as young as 6, it was their first time performing for such a large and lively audience.

Goscote Dance Studios was founded by Miss Karen back in 1985 who started out at Goscote Hall in Birstall. With her combined love of dance and teaching she wanted to create a school that strived for excellence whilst being fun and inclusive to everyone. Miss Karen sadly passed away in 2023 but her legacy, passion, morals and commitment will live on for many more generations to come as her daughter, Miss Megan, continues to drive the school forward.

Big events are always forward planned many years in advance for the dancers and Disneyland Paris was in the planning stages before Miss Karen’s passing. With this drive in mind, Miss Megan was determined to keep her promise and fulfil this incredible opportunity for the dancers to mark such a wonderful achievement. Providing memories that will last a lifetime is something we strive for as a school. The trip symbolised not only the longevity of the studio but also its legacy in shaping young performers for generations.

As the curtain begins to fall on our 40th anniversary year, Goscote Dance Studios shows no signs of slowing down. Plans are already underway for more exciting celebrations later in the year for the dancers and we are ready to go forward into next year with more exciting classes, competitions and community events.

If you would like to come and watch our 40 year celebration show in November, with not only current students but alumni too, contact us for more information! It really will be a superb commemoration for Goscote Dance Studios!

OCTOBER

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

The Full Moon in your sign early in the month will see some new options on the table! You know that you still have to work hard to see any results but it’ll be worth the effort and the rewards will come quite quickly too. Partners and loved ones get a chance of a new beginning - and this is much-deserved in your opinion too.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

Others tend to rattle you this month and they also seem to have the mental edge - which is challenging to say the least! You decide to leave behind some old worn-out dreams and ideas which have served their purpose and you move on. You cannot draw on previous circumstances for help but enjoy the genuine peace and quiet.

GEMINI May 21 - June 21

With Uranus having recently moved into your sign, you’re still benefiting from the marvellous extra boost that this gives your mental faculties! So it seems that you can’t put a foot wrong. You’re particularly effective as regards practical issues. You feel energised – even feisty – at times and romance persistently seeks you out.

CANCER June 22 - July 22

Against some considerably odds, you still seem to build on your ideas in the most successful ways. Others will be impressed and your popularity soars. Some good physical stamina and energy are at your disposal and you have more determination and drive to get the results that you really want. Life’s a dream at times.

LEO July 23 - August 22

Cash comes easily and you’ll spend on things that you really want! You may also splash out and treat a romantic partner. Take time to build up any new ideas and to manifest your dreams. You may go through a spiritual phase where you pursue your faith and beliefs as well as put yourself in service to others in some way.

VIRGO August 23 - Sept 21

With Venus in your sign this month, you’re quite the charmer and will find yourself in everyone’s ‘good books’. And yes – romance too will come easily and you’re up for enjoyment in any shape and form that is presented. So a short break or holiday is quite likely right now. Money comes easily but also gets spent quickly!

LIBRA Sept 22 - Oct 22

With the New Moon in your sign, you can expect a whole new phase to unfold before you! Venus and Mercury too promise excellent communication with a loved one and you make excellent plans together. Expect a welcome cash windfall and this gets you out of a financial fix. Some doors firmly close behind you.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21

With Mars in your sign, we should all expect a few fireworks but also wonderful drive, determination and stamina from you! Your communication skills are also well-honed and we can all expect some excellent deep philosophical thoughts and wellconsidered opinions and remarks. New direction hatches.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21

Life is a little quiet and you have to bounce your thoughts and ideas off others in order to get anywhere. This is fine! You’re trying to find a new way forward and abandon some old hobbies and interests in an effort to do so. Spending time at home or in seclusion really helps to put your mental world in order.

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19

You can do a lot with your money right now and yet you have to also consider others and their needs and reactions. True, you can’t do everything but taking your time before you reach decisions is important. So there’s no rush. You’ve a lot of talking and persuading to do before you can do just what you really want!

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18

In many ways, the ball’s still in your court and you can play things how you want. However, there’s a lot of work involved in getting things the way that you really want them. So take your time and make plans. It all hinges on your cash affairs – as is so often the case. You also have to overcome some resistance from others.

PISCES Feb 19 - March 20

Saturn has moved retrograde back into your sign for a while and whilst this can be frustrating, it can also be useful. For this planet will once again lend you its wonderful stamina, drive and tenacity to get things done. Meanwhile, your planet Neptune is between your sign and Aries, so your dreams are strong and forthright.

Fancy a Walk?

The season of mists and mellow fruitfulness can yield some perfect days for walking – not too hot, not too cold. So, how about tackling the Leicestershire Round this autumn?

The Round was first devised by the Leicestershire Footpath Association (LFA) to celebrate its centenary in 1987. This route of one hundred miles (for one hundred years) encircles the city of Leicester in a big sweep, taking in some of our county’s best countryside. But, if that sounds like too big a walking project, or if you’d like a taster of The Round to start with, there is an alternative.

In the year 2000, the LFA published a guide entitled ‘32 Short Circular Walks Based on the Leicestershire Round’. The walks were designed for those wanting to sample the long distance walk without the challenge

of attempting the full 100 miles. When the book went out of print, the walks became available on the LFA website as downloadable PDFs.

It’s now 25 years since the book was originally published and a team of LFA volunteers have been revisiting the walks and, where necessary, rewriting the instructions. To date, more than half of the walks have been rewritten and the new versions uploaded to the website.

To access the 32 Walks page on the LFA website, go to: lfa.org.uk/ 32walks and select a walk by clicking on the numbered circle on the map, or scroll through the short walk descriptions below it.

The Leicestershire Footpath Association is the oldest footpath preservation society in the country that’s still in existence today. Its volunteers work to protect the public’s

rights to enjoy freedom of movement through Leicestershire's countryside, actively seeking issues that affect rights of way and working closely with the County Council to remedy them. The LFA is keen to recruit some new members! If you like walking in Leicestershire, why not join? There’s a membership form on the website, lfa.org.uk, or you can email lfa. members2021@gmail.com

Happy walking!

Janina Holubecki

Syston’s Only Dedicated Newspaper

WHY ADVERTISE IN YOUR LOCAL PAPER?

You are reading this advert and your potential customers could be reading it too.

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

30 years of working in your area,

Gaddesby

Rearsby

Wild Facts about Animals’ Hearing

When we think of hearing most of us picture human ears, yet in the animal kingdom hearing is far stranger and more fascinating than you might imagine. From snakes that “hear” through their jaws to insects that pick up sound with their legs, nature has found all sorts of clever ways to tune into the world. From the team at Optimal Hearing, here are some amazing and little-known facts about how different creatures listen to life around them.

Snakes: Hearing with Their Jaws Snakes don’t have external ears like we do. Instead, they rely on an extraordinary system. Vibrations from the ground travel through a snake’s jawbone directly into its inner ear. This means that while a snake might not hear a bird singing above, it can sense the faintest rumble of footsteps or the movement of prey underground.

In a way, snakes are experts in “feeling” sound rather than hearing it.

Insects: Ears in the Legs

Many insects don’t have ears on their heads at all. Grasshoppers and crickets, for example, have special hearing organs called “tympana” located on their legs or abdomen. These thin membranes pick up vibrations from the air, helping them detect the calls of other insects – or the wingbeats of a hungry bat hunting nearby. Imagine being able to hear through your knees!

Owls: Asymmetrical Ears for Super Hearing

Owls are famous for their silent flight and sharp eyesight, but their hearing is even more incredible. Many owls have ears that are slightly lopsided –one higher than the other. This uneven positioning lets them detect the exact location of a sound in three dimensions. A mouse rustling under leaves on a dark night has almost no chance of escaping an owl’s pinpoint hearing.

Elephants: Listening with Their Feet

Elephants have huge ears, but their hearing power doesn’t stop there. These giants can detect lowfrequency sounds and ground vibrations through their feet. By pressing their trunks and feet to the ground, they “listen” to rumbles that can travel for miles. This helps

elephants communicate with each other across great distances – a kind of secret underground messaging system.

Dolphins: Hearing Underwater

Dolphins don’t rely much on their outer ears. Instead, they use their lower jaws to pick up sound vibrations in water, which are then carried to the middle ear. Their brains process these signals with astonishing speed, allowing them to echolocate – a biological sonar system that helps them “see” with sound, even in the darkest ocean depths.

Moths:

Out-hearing the Bats

Many moths have evolved to detect the ultrasonic calls of bats, their biggest predators. Some moths even have the most sensitive ears in the animal kingdom, tuned specifically to pick up the high-pitched squeaks of a hunting bat. Once they hear it, they can dive, roll, or even stop flying altogether to avoid becoming dinner.

The Wonder of Animal Ears

Human hearing is the result of an incredible sensory mechanism, yet the animal kingdom is full of extraordinary listening tricks. Next time you hear a bird singing or a bee buzzing, remember that there are creatures out there hearing and sensing the world in ways we can hardly imagine. Paul, Dee and Sophie Optimal Hearing

Charnwood Celebrates Its Community Heroes for 2025

� Carl Travis Roberts

� Mary Downs

� Christine Moody

Charnwood recognised the people that go above and beyond in their communities at an annual awards ceremony.

Charnwood Community Heroes celebrates the work which people have carried out in the borough and thanks them for their tireless efforts.

The awards ceremony was held on Saturday, 6th September at Burleigh Court in Loughborough where over 50 heroes were recognised.

EEM, a not-for-profit procurement consortium that offers cost and efficiency savings for the public sector, was the headline sponsor for this year's Charnwood Community Heroes.

Local radio station, Fosse 107 also supported the awards ceremony with Mark O’Sullivan as host.

From litter-pickers and youth mentors to trustees and green champions, the event celebrated everyday heroes whose acts of kindness and dedication have helped shape a stronger, more compassionate borough.

Cllr Liz Blackshaw, lead member for communities at Charnwood Borough Council, said: “We celebrated the heartbeat of Charnwood at this awards ceremony – its people. These heroes remind us that community is built by people who care, act, and inspire.”

Below is a list of the 2025 Charnwood Community Heroes: Young Hero (sponsored byLoughborough College)

� Caitlin Moses

� Mohaned Hassouna

� Will Ferguson Super Trooper

� Robert James Butler (Sileby Flood Wardens)

� Richard Oldham (Sileby Flood Wardens)

� David Hackett (Syston)

� Cynthia Ann Palmer

� Rosie Houldsworth

� Kath Parker

� Geoff Wainwright

� Jim Wellington

� Craig Jordan

� Alison Chattaway

� Natalie Wilbraham

Inspiring Others (sponsored byDigital Planning)

� David Roulston

� Margaret Folwell

� Sue Fosey

� Craig Sawbridge

� Jon Meadows

� Jemma Bagley

� Diana Yaskevych

� Alina Blyzniuk

� Oksana Kapiton

� Ben Stockley

� Amanda Bolton

� David Murray

� Vivienne Holmes

Green Hero (sponsored byIdverde)

� Ben Mondair

� Janet Smith

� Saraih Jones

� Loz Pepper

� Janina Holubecki

� Ann-Marie Donaldson

� Louise Fletcher

Brilliant Board / Trustee Member (sponsored by1284 Communications)

� Gary Siddons

� Rebecca Martin

� Nicci Ilett

� Alexandra Lang

Beyond the Call of Duty

� Joanne Sanders

� Sean Baker (Syston)

� Anthony Marvin

� Jacob Nelson

� Rana Rajput

� Aaron Hira

� Meg Bezzano-Griffith

� Helen Carter

Business Community Action (sponsored byHowes Percival)

� Thermo Fisher Scientific

� DIAM

� Noble Events team of volunteers

The Harry Cook Award is awarded to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the community. It was chosen by Harry’s family. Harry, along with wife Pat, was heavily involved in Loughborough in Bloom and their floral home not only

featured on the bloom judging route but also on BBC Gardener’s World. Harry sadly died in 2018. Pat is the chair of the Loughborough in Bloom Board.

The winner of the Harry Cook Award for 2025 was Ann-Marie Donaldson for her unwavering dedication to outdoor education, sustainability, and the wellbeing of local children as the driving force behind the forest school at St Winefride’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Shepshed.

Lucy Howes, vice principal, learner services and quality at Loughborough College, sponsor of the Young Hero award, said: “There are so many fantastic people out there doing vital work for communities, so events like this are so important. They deserve their time to shine and it has been brilliant to have been involved.”

James Ferraby, co-director of Digital Planning, sponsor of the Inspiring Others category, added: “Hearing the stories shared by people so committed to strengthening Charnwood inspires us all.

“We're proud to help celebrate those who dedicate time and energy to our community, and the Council for staging a great awards event to bring the community together and highlight great achievements in Charnwood.”

Amy Orton, account director at 1284 Communications, sponsor of the Brilliant Board/Trustee Member award, said: “We've supported Charnwood Community Heroes from its launch a few years back and it continues to put a spotlight the key contribution made by volunteers and trustees in our area.

“They are driving real change, supporting charities, and collaborating in a way which gives so much to our area.”

The Business Community Action category was sponsored by specialist solicitors Howes Percival. Justine Flack, a partner at Howes Percival, said: “From businesses to individuals, this event has showcased the amazing community spirit in Charnwood. Long may it continue.”

idverde, the Council’s open spaces partner, sponsored the Green Hero category. Nicola Clarke, community engagement officer at idverde, said: “I would like to thank all the heroes celebrated today for the wonderful work they carry out. It was amazing to be at the ceremony and listen to their stories.”

For photos from the event, please visit theCouncil’s Flickr album. You can read all stories of local heroes by visiting the Charnwood Community Heroes Facebook page:www.facebook.com/ CharnwoodCommunityHeroes.

Syston Summer Fayre

What a fabulous day, the park was full with a great variety of stalls, probably the most we have had since before COVID. So thank you to all those charities, groups, independent businesses providing a lovely range of artisan products, to the mini fair providing rides and other activities.

Great to have the Gin bar and Cider and craft beer sellers back again. The stage was a hive of activity with an amazing range of performers from tiny dancers through to amazing musicians. We thank you all for making the day so special and well supported.

We would like to thank the Mayor of Charnwood Cllr David Northage and Mayoress Jenny Northage for officially opening the event, see picture left, and taking time to visit the stalls, it is always a pleasure to have the Mayor and Mayoress of Charnwood visit our event. We had two winners for our homemade Cake competition, one for the Victoria Sandwich and the other for six fairy cakes, well done and thank you for entering. Each winner received a shield and certificate.

Everything was going so well until there was a dramatic change in the weather late afternoon and although some people braved it as long as they could, it brought a somewhat abrupt end to the event.

We hope you will all come back next year and that the weather will be kinder to us for the whole of the event. However, the feedback we have had has confirmed it was a successful event for everyone who was there.

The committee of the Syston Summer Fayre (SSF) would like to thank everyone who came along on Saturday 30th August to support this

New Barkby WI's stall, shown below at the Syston Summer Fayre attracted very welcome attention from visiting public and they were able to tell women about all about the WI and encourage them to visit.

fabulous local family event. They would particularly like to thank the sponsors, Millington Travel, DSM transport for the upper stage, T. Watts for the Skip, Designer Daisies and Syston Town News. Pictures

Flying Solo

Syston RBL

BollyARKK Dance

Sarah Clarke

Rebelle

RJVC Community Choir

RBL Riders

Audience

Adele

View across the event

Scout & Guide Band

Dance Academy

is published by CURZON GRAPHICS

© 1996

55 Goodes Lane, Syston, Leicester, LE7 2JL

Tel/Fax: 0116 269 3221

(Mon - Fri. 9.00am - 5.00pm) email: fiona@systontownnews.co.uk or deanna@systontownnews.co.uk www.systontownnews.co.uk has copyright and no part whatsoever may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers.

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

GOODES LANE

SIMPSON CLOSE

MARCUS CLOSE

AUGUSTUS CLOSE

FINAL COPY DATE FOR NOVEMBER 2025 ISSUE IS: Tuesday 14th October

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 4444

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

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 4.30pm Saturday 11.15am 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. Christopher Amdam 0116 291 9495.

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

Anita School of Motoring est 1972 Female Instructor. Automatic Lessons only. Mob: 0792 104 4379

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 Alan on 0116 269 2752.

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.

GOLD & SILVERWANTED

Gold & Silver Wanted

Call to arrange Free home visit.

Tel: 0116 220 3749

Mob:0754 761 7079

GUIDING IN SYSTON

Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers Guiding caters for girls aged four onwards.

Rainbows (4-7) Brownies (7-10) Guides (10-14) Rangers (14-18) To join or go on our waiting lists , please visit www. girlguiding.org.uk/ register a child 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.

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

RJVC Feel Good Choir

A choir for everyone; Sing, have fun, make friends.No auditions, no sheet music, no experience needed — only good vibes!

St Peter’s & St Paul’s Church Hall. Every Thursday, 7.30pm - 9pm. Book your free taster: info@rjvocalcoaching.com / 0797 121 7276.

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

Jamie Heggs Decorating Services

Email: jlheggs@yahoo.co.uk

Mob: 0780 384 5465

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

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.

TUITION

Bright Minds Tuition – Led by a qualified Primary Teacher!

1:1 and group sessions available (Rec–Year 6). Personalised study plans to boost confidence and progress.

Based in Syston:Contact: 0782 813 7759 E: brightmindstuition@icloud.com

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.

What’s On Diary for OCT/NOV

BROADWAY GOSPEL HALL

Sunday 5th October

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 6th October - Four Mothers

A funny and heart warming Irish comedy about a novelist looking after his mother and 3 eccentric older women.

Monday 3rd November - Salt Path

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.

Saturday 11th October

10am to 11.30am

Wanlip Church Hall

Make your own fused glass decoration!

FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE

Saturday 18th October

7pm

De Montfort Hall, Leicester

Tickets only £11 from demontforthall.co.uk or tel: 0116 233 3111.

Remember together with Leicestershire & Rutland Royal British Legion.

Featuring performances from Enderby Band, BollyARKK dance, Leicestershire Sing! Junior Choir, Anne Marie Marlow, Thurmaston Marching Brass.

Monday 20th October

7.30pm

Speaker - Tim Garner - Old Syston

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

Additional items will be available at an extra cost.

Tickets £12 - all attendees must have a ticket and children must be supervised. To book your place contact Liz on 0116 267 1252. Refreshments will be available on the day.

GLASS FUSION WORKSHOP

SYSTON LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

Hats Prepare for Their Next Exciting Panto

What’s the old saying “doesn’t time fly when you are having fun”? It’s absolutely true, the weather has been amazing, the children have been on their school break… and summer holidays and activities have been welcomed by all. It’s almost over, however, there is always something else to look forward to, and here at HATS we are going to make sure we provide you with a fabulous Panto in the run up to Christmas. This year we will be performing “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by P L McQueen, with permissions from Lazy Bee Scripts. I expect there are a number of adults who remember reading this book when they were children, giggling as the Emperor strolls around in the most spectacular clothing ever! If you know this story then you will have a good idea of what I am referring to, but don’t spoil it for the younger ones. Let the experience the wonder of this very funny show through their own eyes for the very first time. And kids, we still have all the expected people, goodies, baddies, comedy, etc etc.

Our Director, Jo Murray and codirector Lorraine Nash have been working very hard throughout the summer holidays. The cast know which characters they are playing and Di, our wardrobe expert has already started to create the fabulous

David Bramley

Foot Health Prac��oner

costumes you have come to expect every year.

So now its time for the cast to get cracking with their lines, develop their characters and treat you all to another hilarious, interactive, fun show. We’ve been told that’s in our job description, hmmmmmmm. Your job is to have fun, clap, boo, hiss, laugh out loud, and generally have a good time. And remember, it will only be a few weeks after the show that the magical ‘Santa Claus’ will be visiting you, so show him how well you can behave.

Our raffle this year will be in aid of Loros, a very worthy local cause, please help to support them.

Dates for your diary:

December 4th, 5th and 6th in the evening with an additional matinee performance on the 6th.

Tickets are £7 for adults, £6 for concession. Family ticket £22.

Box office details: 0794 879 6675. Watch out for regular updates in local magazines. Please check our facebook for regular updates/ photographs, and a bit nearer the panto date we will be having a free draw for a chance for two people to win a family ticket to the panto so keep looking.

www.facebook.com/hatsamdram see you soon.

Heart of England Chorus Entertains for Christmas

Hello again. After a summer of fabulous weather and entertainment in many places over Leicestershire, it is almost time to look forward to another very special time of the year.

Goodness, I heard that response loud and clear. Yes, that’s right, before you know it Christmas will be here and there is nothing nicer than seeing the joy on children’s faces as they sing along to numerous carols that they are familiar with, and maybe a few new ones. Singing is a joyous social activity both for the singers and the listeners. Here at the Heart of England Chorus we are ready to start getting out our Christmas songs, (some familiar and some new,) and practise to ensure we give enjoyable performances to as many people as we can. So, as the youngsters say, “let’s get ready to rumble”.

Our Chorus consists of a wellestablished group. Not only do we sing together, we arrange social activities and we eat LOTS of cake to give us energy, there is always a treat or two on offer lol. However, we also work hard. Singing

For an appointment please call

Mobile Foot Care Service 0116 221 3532 or 0775 114 1358

A Capella in four part harmony is not as easy as it may sound especially if you are standing next to someone singing a different harmony to you. Concentration is essential to ensure you are not distracted. We like to sing a variety of genres, both old and more modern throughout the year, but right now we will also be concentrating on Christmas songs.

As we know music brings joy to everyone and we are starting to pencil in dates for our diary, maybe you can take a note of these dates too, and if you are nearby when we are singing, then pop along and see what we do. We will be adding further dates as the season progresses.

Groby Xmas switch on. Groby. Sunday 30th November 6.15 to 6.45pm. Highcross Shopping Centre, Leicester. Supporting Loros. Saturday 13th December: 10.00 to 10.20am and 10.40 to11.00am.

Watch out for regular updates in Local Magazines and on our face book https://m.facebook.com/HoEChorus. If you require and further details please contact John Phillips on 0773 852 6757.

St Peter and St Paul’s Church News

Heating Appeal Update

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported the Heating Appeal. The new heating is currently being installed! We can’t wait to offer a warm welcome to everyone this winter. It’s still not too late to make a donation or sponsor a pew heater if you would like to. Just get in touch via 0785 157 3236.

Harvest Festival 10.30am Sunday 5th October

Come and join us as we celebrate Harvest and see the banner that many of you helped us to make at the Summer Fayre. There will be a bring and share lunch in the Church Hall afterwards.

Are you interested in helping to brighten up our Grade 1 listed church building for our Harvest Festival? You are most welcome to come along on Saturday 4th October at 10am to join Janet B as she guides anyone interested in arranging flowers, fruits and vegetables to transform the church. Just turn up on the day with an open mind, no previous experience necessary, or for more details contact Janet B on 0116 260 6702.

Service of Loving Remembrance

4.00pm Sunday 2nd November

On Sunday 2nd November (All Saints Day) there will be a service of Loving Remembrance at 4.00pm. This is a gentle service to remember those we have loved and lost with the opportunity to light a candle in their memory. Everyone welcome.

Remembrance Sunday 9th November

9.30am Holy Communion in Church 11.00am Service at the War Memorial 11.30am Remembrance Service in Church.

Christmas Tree Festival 28th November to 1st December

Please email w.hardy147@gmail.com to register your tree.

County Councillor Report

Syston Summer Fayre

This year was another great success for the Summer Fayre, whilst the weather wasn’t as kind as previous years there was still a great atmosphere with more stalls than ever and a real Community spirit to the whole event, I would like to thank all the organisers and volunteers especially the stage crews and parking team who were up at the crack of dawn to prepare everything for the stall holders and performers.

Syston Mental Health & Wellbeing Network

I was pleased to attend this networking event at Beedles lake on 1st September, it bought together many local wellbeing community Groups and Healthcare Professionals from Syston and the surrounding area in an informal atmosphere where we could share ideas about new ways to support our community.

Syston Community Flood Group I joined the Flood Group Volunteers on two Occasions to help with clearing weeds and vegetation around the brookside areas and Millenium Bridge, this area now looks much better and the work to remove the raised tree roots and subsequent patching has made it safer for pedestrians to use LCC Saves £540,000 by dimming

streetlights

The Previous Conservative administration at Leicestershire County Council identified that savings could be made and in February 2023, the MTFS (Medium Term Financial Strategy) 2023/24 to 2026/27 was approved by the County Council. It identified a requirement to save £500,000 on street lighting. This was reduced to £430,000 in the 2024/25 MTFS following safety concerns raised as part of the consultation exercise and further exceptions to the dimming proposals. During 2024/25, a further £110,000 savings target was agreed for the 2025/26 MTFS as a result of savings being higher than expected due to change in energy rate, bringing the total revised savings requirement to £540,000.13. Any reduction in street lighting energy will also provide a reduction in the Council’s carbon emissions therefore also contributing to its environmental commitments. The Council currently maintains approximately 70,190 street lighting assets

The dimming trial took place from January 2024 until June 2025 and dimmed the vast majority of all County streetlights to 30% intensity from 8.00pm until 7.00am, apart from those that met the criteria (listed below) of the risk assessment: a) Vertical traffic calming features; b) Town centres; c) Zebra crossings – in line with methodology for lighting zebra

Food Served:

crossings, but at new reduced lighting levels, providing increased illumination on the crossing itself; d) Areas with evidenced increased night time crime/ anti-social behaviour where maintaining streetlights at existing levels was supported by the police; e) Areas with increased night time road traffic accidents with increased killed or serious injuries at conflict areas;) Currently illuminated steps. The following were also monitored as part of the risk assessment: a) Increased pedestrian interactions with street furniture. b) Increased interactions between vehicles outside of conflict areas. c) Increased interactions between vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians outside of conflict areas.

Any streetlights that met the criteria in the risk assessment remained at their previous lighting levels. Trial Findings18. Savings achieved during the trial period are: a) Total energy savings – 1,442,770 kWh, b) Total financial savings – £539,759,c) Total carbon savings – 319.3 tonne (T)2022/23Baseline -Dimming to British Standards a/an/an/a 2023/24

Implementation of 8pm dimming to 30% power in Q4 370,688

£131,22482.5.

It is hoped that the new administration will continue with this initiative as the savings speak for themselves.

Simon Bradshaw CC Syston Ridgeway Division

Opening Hours: Tuesday 4.00pm to 10.00pm

Wednesday to Friday 12noon to 2.00pm and 4.00pm to 10.00pm Saturday 12noon to 10.00pm Sunday 12noon to 7.00pm

Wednesday to Saturday 12noon to 2.00pm

Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 6.00pm to 8.30pm

Sunday 12noon to 3.00pm

Friday and Saturday - Steak & Wine Night from £40 per couple

Quiz held every Thursday 7.30pm Music Quiz every 1st Thursday of the month. We can cater for rambling groups, family get together’s, plus we offer a buffet package for parties and funeral teas.

A very friendly cosy atmosphere welcoming dogs and muddy shoes too.

We have a beautiful courtyard to enjoy the summer sun with friends and family. Our premium drinks menu including cask and craft ales available from our bar.

For bookings and further information please contact Hannah on 0116 259 5571

Wreake Valley Academy Unveils New Maths Department and School Improvements Following Flood Recovery

Wreake Valley Academy is entering a new chapter of transformation and resilience. Just ten months after a devastating flood severely damaged the top floor classrooms, library as well as several other rooms, the school is proud to announce the opening of a brand-new Maths department and a series of significant upgrades across the site.

Since the flood, Maths lessons have taken place in 20 temporary mobile classrooms on the basketball courts. Despite the disruption, students achieved the school’s best A-Level results in years—a testament to their determination and the dedication of staff.

Construction began to repair the damage in January, culminating in a new roof and the complete refurbishment of nine Maths classrooms. Each space now features interactive boards, modern furniture, and a fresh learning environment. “It’s been a long year, but we are excited to get back into our classrooms and teach in spaces that will benefit our students,” said Mr Errington, Head of Maths.

Additional improvements include new toilets and a vibrant school mural on the top floor, enhancing both functionality and atmosphere.

This period of renewal coincides with a fresh leadership approach under new Headteacher Ben Rackley, pictured left, who joined the school last September. Ben’s first year included navigating the flood crisis and addressing other challenges, such as a condemned heating system in January. Under his leadership, and working alongside the trust (Bradgate Educational Partnership), the school has seen:

� Significant investment in ICT across the school

� Refurbishment of the canteen and classrooms

� Creation of a central Pastoral Hub, bringing together Safeguarding, Attendance, and Wellbeing teams

� Designated outdoor spaces for each year group

� Environmental improvements across the campus

Restoration efforts will continue this Autumn, with repairs to the middle floor and new classrooms and offices scheduled to open in January.

The school’s renewed focus on behaviour and learning is reflected in ‘The Wreake Way’ - a set of core intentions developed by the senior leadership team to improve student outcomes and conduct.

Joining the leadership team are a new Deputy Headteacher and Head of Inclusion, ensuring Wreake Valley Academy continues to serve its community with excellence and care.

“I am excited at the endless possibilities this school can offer the students and community,” said Ben Rackley, as staff prepare to welcome students back for the new academic year. "we are all keen to build on the progress made last year and to see just how far Wreake can go."

No Brainer

I wondered what to write in this month’s article but, having received a leaflet from Taylor Wimpey saying that they are planning to apply for permission to build 1100 homes between Barkby and Syston, it’s a no brainer.

We were aware that they would be applying to build 900 homes but this news has really come as a proper kick in the teeth. The LLFA has stated that they will fully engage with CBC, EA and the developer regarding the application for 900 homes and “will be seeking for betterment with regards to flood risk management” and “every effort should be taken to minimise surface water volume run-off”. They are now looking at a 22% increase in the number of proposed homes!!

This engagement better work. Taylor Wimpey’s sales pitch sounds good, have a look at www. taylorwimpey.co.uk/new-homes/systonsouth-east-syston. What’s missing? Flood mitigation, not just for that site but the whole of Syston, I suppose it’s not a positive sales pitch. They held an open day on 25th September to show residents their plans and to get feedback from residents prior to putting in their planning application.

We’re not against building homes but flood mitigation measures for the current problem and for the new site need to be installed and then constantly maintained.

Leicestershire National Garden Scheme

Open Gardens October 2025

Enjoy the colour of autumn trees at Hammond Arboretum, Market Harborough, LE16 7JG, which opens on Sunday 5th October from 2.00 to 4.30pm. The Arboretum was established by Francis Hammond, former Headmaster of the old Grammar school, and tree planting started in 1913. The Arboretum is home to a wide range of mature trees, including 3 champion trees and 36 classified as the best in Leicestershire.

On Sunday26th October, from 11.00am to 4.00pm, Tresillian House,

Climate change, new builds, lack of maintenance, lack of funds, fly tipping etc. all go towards increasing the possibility of flooding. We need to look after the environment AND the humans. The residents of Barkby, Syston, Sileby – the list is endless – can then relax when it rains.

On a lighter note, we had a great time at the Summer Fayre. Many people stopped at our stand to see the pictures and talk to us even the Mayor and Mayoress were keen to know about the work we are doing. Thank you to everyone who took part in our “Guess the Weight of the Sandbag” competition, the actual weight was 16.5kg. I had to keep a straight face when one young man was absolutely

LE13 0BG, opens a ¾-acre tranquil garden near Melton Mowbray, featuring mixed autumn colour, a pond, a small exhibition by local artists, and hot soup. Thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers, and visitors, Leicestershire National Garden Scheme raised over £67,000, which was donated to our beneficiary charities in 2024. Giant Redwood at Hammond Arboretum

spot on – quite difficult I can tell you! Syston Community Flood Group

Citizens Advice

Charnwood

Explains What Help Is Available

If You Are Struggling with the Costs of Energy

I’ve heard that the cost of energy is going up again from October. I’m already struggling with my bills and worried this extra cost will mean I get into debt. Is there anything I can do? Yes, changes to the Energy Cap from October will result in an increase in what you pay for electricity and gas. For a typical household energy bills will increase by £2.93 a month or £35.14 per year.However, there is help available for low-income households.

Warm Home Discount Scheme

This is for people on means-tested benefits. It provides £150 towards your electricity bill, but person or partner must have been named on the bill as of Sunday 24 August 2025. You can check whether you are eligible for the Warm Home discount on the following link:https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ consumer/energy/energy-supply/gethelp-paying-your-bills/grants-andbenefits-to-help-you-pay-your-energybills/#h-check-if-you-can-get-a-warmhome-discount

Cold Weather Payments – for people on means-tested benefits. Between 1 November 2025 and 31 March 2026,

you’ll get a Cold Weather Payment of £25 each time the average temperature in your area drops below zero degrees Celsius for 7 days in a row. You can check if you are entitled to this payment on the following link:

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ consumer/energy/energy-supply/gethelp-paying-your-bills/grants-andbenefits-to-help-you-pay-your-energybills/#h-check-if-you-can-get-a-coldweather-payment

Winter Fuel Payment - If you’ve reached State Pension age (you were born before 22 September 1959), you might be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment. This is an annual one-off payment to help you pay for heating during the winter. There is more information about this on the Government website –

https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment Emergency help with energy bills There is emergency assistance for people in hardship, subject to eligibility. If you can't afford to top up your prepayment meter, you might be able to get a fuel voucher. You can check by following this link -

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ consumer/energy/energy-supply/gethelp-paying-your-bills/grants-andbenefits-to-help-you-pay-your-energybills/#h-check-if-you-can-get-a-fuelvoucher

Heat Fund Vouchers

Also, if you aren’t connected to mains gas or the electricity grid, The Heat

Fund provides emergency fuel deliveries, subject to eligibility. You can find more information on the following link –

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ consumer/energy/energy-supply/gethelp-paying-your-bills/grants-andbenefits-to-help-you-pay-your-energybills/#h-if-you-don-t-use-gas-orelectricity-to-heat-your-home

Always check that you aren’t being scammed

Some scammers are pretending to be from energy companies or government departments like the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). For example, you might get a text asking you to apply for a ‘heating allowance’ or Winter Fuel Payment. Scammers do this to get your personal information.

If you think something might be a scam you can check using the following linkhttps://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ consumer/scams/check-if-somethingmight-be-a-scam/

Other help may become available during the autumn/winter. Please contact us for more information. We offer energy advice appointments and, for organisations, we can provide energy outreach sessions at your location.

For energy advice appointment enquiries only you can also send an email to:energyadvice@charnwoodcab.co.uk

THE QUEEN VICTORIA

Offering a Fabulous Range of Real Ales, Fine Wines, Premium Lagers, Gins and Spirits along with Fantastic Home Cooked Food. Food Serving hours

12noon - 10pm

- 8.30pm

Across

1. Spanish Formula 1 Driver currently racing for Aston Martin Aramco Mercedes F1 Team. (6)

4. A Halloween fancy dress made out of a white bed sheet. (5)

6. The traditional birthstone of October. (4)

7. Make someone a priest or minister. (Third person present) (7)

8. Timed word game created by Hasbro. (6)

9. Another word used to say the weather is chilly. (5)

11. Begin a round or hole of golf by playing the ball from a tee. (6)

14. Province in Ireland; Has a Rugby Union team, one of four that make up the Irish Rugby Football Union. (8)

15. The sister of a parent. (5)

Down

2. An ambiguity or inadequacy in the law or a set of rules. (8)

3. German folk festival combining a funfair and beer. (11)

4. An outdoor area at the rear of a house. (6)

5. To be comfortably warm. (6)

10. A cultivated winter squash that we carve at Halloween. (7)

11. A typical handy person will have a set of these in their shed for DIY. (5)

12. The October star sign, represented by a set of scales. (5)

13. We hand this out to Trick or Treaters; In the UK we call them sweets. (US) (5)

The winner of the September Crossword is: Mr J. Reddall of Queniborough

The answers for our September Crossword were:

Across:

2. Scowls; 5. Basket; 6. Dodgeball; 8. Medal; 9. East; 11. Telepathize; 13. Club; 14. Tawny; 15. Emmental.

Down:

1. Obedient; 2. Stable; 3. Wallet; 4. Sapphire; 7. Goldeneye; 10. Article; 12. Zebra.

Check Out our website for more events,

Your Great Little Paper online for everything

Compiled by Deanna Johnson and sponsored by QT

Complete this crossword and send it to: Syston Town News, 55 Goodes Lane Syston, Leicester, LE7 2JL The first correct entry drawn will win £10

Syston Bowling Club

Registered Community Amateur Sports Club

“At the heart of the local community for more than 90 years” LOOK at what we offer to help you survive the Winter months, before the green opens again in April:

Indoor bowling sessions at Melton

Weekly Pub Quiz and social afternoon (Wednesdays)

Fortnightly meetings of Art Group

Weekly table tennis, cards and board games (Friday evenings) Monthly Newsletter

Regular weekend evening social programme

Fully licensed, competitively priced clubhouse Bar Monthly Coffee Morning (Saturdays)

Non-members and potential members are offered a warm welcome to all events. Come and sample the great Club atmosphere to help you to decide whether you want to join us as a player next Season. Clubhouse and Bar available for hire for suitable events.

President, Shirley Franklin, welcomed members and one visitor to New Barkby W.I.’s September meeting.

‘Jerusalem’ was sung followed bu a one-minute silence in memory of member Susan Gamble, who had passed away recently. Business matters followed, dealing with various W.I. activities and events. The speaker Susie Lickman spoke about ‘How to enjoy your House Plants.’

There was a variety of plants on display, all in different shades of green, as Susie gave advice on not over watering them, or just because there is a space, not to over-fill it.

Plants with waxy leaves - Sansevieria (mother-in-law’s tongue) - these can cope with moisture - let light come in to improve their condition. When the pandemic was happening, plants became quite expensive, but customers were willing to buy them to appreciate their attractiveness during that time.

After the talk there was a question and answer time and for a chance to buy any plants if so desired. Sue has a plant shop in Market Harborough. The vote of thanks was given by Valerie Cobb and the competition was won by Louise Chapman with a plant

named Gollumjade, a succulent. The raffle was won by Shirley Franklin, a welcome back for our president, as she has been absent for a few months.

The next meeting will be on Wednesday 1st October, 7.30pm at Syston Community Centre. All visitors welcome.

The speaker will be Steven Bruce with ‘The Hoarder Next Door.’

Syston Model Railway Society

The 2026 model railway exhibition will be taking place on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January. The event will be at Birstall Social Club & the model club, 16-18 Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS. Opening times will be 10am to 4.30pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm and Sunday.

Admission prices are £5 for adults; £4 for unaccompanied Children and free for accompanied children under 16. For further information, ring 0794 841 9664 or systonmodelrailway@gmx. co.uk or www.systonmrs.org.uk.

The exhibition will be taking place in the Social Club concert room and the model railway club room opposite. The expo will feature 13 layouts and 8 Traders.

Plenty of free nearby parking.

The views and opinions expressed in the Letter below are those of the authors and do not reflect the opinion of the Syston Town News.

Dear Editor,

Following your feature of all the lovely tubs and flowers displayed in Syston.

The picture above is of one of the raised beds near where I live on The Green. This is as good as it has been for the last three years. I would like to know why!

The Green is a very well used space, used by cycling group, people using the Church, people dropping and picking up children from St Peter's & Paul school are just a few.

So why are our tubs not tended. I would love to know.

From a resident of Lower Church Street, Syston.

Do you live in Syston and have an hour or two spare each month? Then why not consider being a volunteer distributor!

Call or email us today about our available streets and routes if you are interested!

269 3221 deanna@systontownnews.co.uk fiona@systontownnews.co.uk are looking for Volunteers to distribute our papers once a month for 11 months a year.