Syston Town News March 2024

SYSTON TOWN NEWS

Syston Fundraiser in Memory of Stu Ashby

On Sunday 17th December 2023, led by our intrepid band leaders, Lenny Abraham with Dave Houseman on Bass, we entertained the audience at the Grosvenor Lounge and Snooker Club, in Syston.

A couple of our members, Sara and Clive, had approached Matt and Steph at The Grosvenor enquiring if they would be interested in having Syston’s Happy Ukulele Band do a concert at The Grosvenor with the Grosvenor hosting the fundraiser. We particularly wanted this event to be aimed at locals helping locals. Steph informed us of a local lady called Stacey Ashby and her two young boys who had been recently bereaved through the sad and sudden passing away of Stu Ashby who was both a dearly loved husband to Stacey, a dearly loved Dad to their two boys, a beloved son to his dearest Mum and a friend to many. Our sincere and loving sympathy to Stu’s family and friends. Many locals attended and a variety of golden oldies were strummed and sung with the audience happily participating and singing and

Local Calor Stockist

clapping along.

At the interval Stacey and Stu’s boys were presented with a soprano ukulele each, see picture below,

which had been kindly donated by Lloyd, pictured below, of Intasound, Narborough Road, Leicester.

The eldest lad then joined the band during the second half of the concert and strummed Christmas Songs on

his new Uke whilst his younger brother did likewise whilst stood by his Mum and the family in the audience.

On Thursday 18th January 2024 the fundraising total of £500 raised during the concert was presented to Stacey by Steph, the events manager at The Grosvenor Lounge.

Afew members of Syston’s Happy Ukulele Band were there to witness the presentation, see picture on page 3.

Stacey would like it known that she is so grateful for what Syston as a community have done and to say thank you so much to the locals who attended and supported this event helping to raise the £500.

Many thanks to Syston’s Happy Ukulele Band for providing the entertainment and many thanks to all concerned at The Grosvenor for making this event possible and taking responsibility for collecting and presenting monies raised.

Stacey is currently having treatment for cancer and she told us that she won’t be the first or the last to be in this situation where a spouse has died of cancer whilst the other also has a cancer diagnosis and likewise her boys won’t be the first or the last to have lost a parent to cancer whilst the other parent also has a diagnosis of cancer. Continues on page 3

World Master Freer’s Tae Kwon-Do Champions!!

Instructors - World Master James Freer & Master Sheryl Freer (husband & wife Tae Kwon-do duo) had success with some of their students winning medals at the Midlands Area Championships held in Kettering. The competition had over 800 competitors taking part throughout the day, Student Ben Scott managed to win Gold in Men’s Black Belt Patterns & Bronze in Heavy Weight Sparring and Ahmed Nawaz also won

Bronze in Men’s Black Belt Heavy Weight Sparring.

Both students did very well for their first competition of the year and are now preparing for the English Championships which will be held in March at Worcester.

Master Sheryl Freer has recently started up a new beginners class for four to six year olds, Tigers Tae Kwon-do, in Syston. These classes are designed to help introduce youngsters on how to cope in a class environment, mixing and communicating with others of similar age, while working on behavioural skills and discipline.

Sheryl says “it’s important getting youngsters involved in exercise these days and showing them that it can be fun, they make lots of new friends while learning to achieve new goals”. This is where the training towards Black Belt begins, who knows, your child could become a Tae Kwon-do Champion one day!!

For more information, please contact Master Sheryl Freer on 0795 256 1388.

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Barkby Village Hall has everything you need to host the perfect event. We have a spacious well equipped hall, with main hall and meeting room, modern kitchen. Disabled facilities and ample parking. For more information contact our booking secretary Mrs Sue Kirk on 0116 260 3997.

INSTRUCTOR 5x WORLD CHAMPION SHERYL FREER-6TH DAN BARKBYVILLAGE HALL

FRIDAY’S 5.30-6.15pm

Sheryl Freer’s picture shows the two winning students with Mr Freer centre, Ben Scott left and Ahmed Nawaz right.

Continued from front page

Stacey is keen to raise awareness of this and when the time is right Stacey is considering setting up some sort of Foundation or Support Group in memory of Stu to provide comfort and support for others in the same situation.

This is admirable and just goes to show what a special and lovely lady Stacey is.

Lenny Abraham & Dave Houseman: Leaders of Syston’s Happy Ukulele Band

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From Classics to Jazz

Unfortunately, it hasn't been possible to organise the concert for this April because of Rachael's other playing commitments in Hull. Hopefully, the concert will take place next year.

Team 3G (Maureen, Rachael and Faith) have decided to go off on their virtual travels again to raise more funds for LOROS, a charity very close to their hearts.

They are just deciding which direction their journeys will take them in! They have already raised over £10,000 for LOROS since 2000 and further details of their forthcoming exploits and how you can support them will appear in the April issue as they will be 'setting off' in April on Maureen's 83rd birthday.

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I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself, My name is Raj Kaur and I am the salon owner of 1118 Beauty Salon, Melton Road, with over 15 years of experience in the beauty and makeup industry. Throughout my career, I have not only gained extensive knowledge and expertise in the beauty field but also developed a deep-rooted belief in fostering an entrepreneurial spirit within the industry. Empowering individuals to embrace their dreams, take charge of their own destinies, and build successful salons is something that truly drives me. I am proud to share that I have already assisted four budding entrepreneurs in setting up their own

salons. By providing guidance, imparting essential business knowledge, and imbuing them with the necessary courage, I have witnessed these individuals flourishing in their respective ventures. The satisfaction derived from seeing their businesses grow and thrive is unparalleled.

The reason I wanted to write this article was to introduce an initiative that is very close to my heart. Having personally witnessed the emotional toll experienced by individuals undergoing chemotherapy and the impact it has on their self-confidence, I have decided to offer FREE Microblading services to those who have lost their brows as a result of this treatment.

It broke my heart to see my own sister go through this challenging journey many years ago, feeling helpless. Therefore now I am determined to find a way to help restore the confidence of those affected. By providing the opportunity for individuals to regain their naturallooking brows, I hope to make a positive difference in their lives. I firmly believe that everyone deserves to feel confident, regardless of the challenges they face.

I would be honoured if you could help spread the word about this initiative. Together, we can empower

individuals who have undergone chemotherapy treatments, reminding them that they are beautiful, strong, and resilient. If you know of anyone who could benefit from this opportunity or would like to collaborate in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article, Wishing you all the very best, and looking forward to the possibility of working together to bring back smiles and confidence.

Raj

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Tales from the Plot

It’s March and it’s like all of a sudden the slate has been wiped clean. Last year’s failures are soon forgotten as the daffodils are flowering, signalling the new year’s growth has begun. Broad beans are now in, I have purple sprouting broc that has overwintered which will be one of the first things to harvest this year - it’s one of our favourite vegetables. Providing I can keep the pigeons off it all should be well. I also have a dozen overwintering cauliflowers springing back to life after seeming quite dormant over the winter. The next thing to sow will be peas, for me in the past peas have been problematic however I’ve now sussed a reliable way of germinating them and keeping the mice at bay.

I made two drills about eight inches apart across the plot and sprinkled the seeds with abandon then covered the two drills with clingfilm piling soil down each side to keep it in place.

This not only keeps the mice off it also acts like a mini greenhouse, normally within two weeks or so the pea shoots are pushing at the clingfilm which can then be lifted - the peas at this point are no longer interesting to the mice,however the flea beetle takes over and starts chewing the leaves, at this time this blighter also attacks the broad beans so regular spraying of water with a squirt of washing up liquid along with a tablespoon of rape seed oil normally keeps the little black shiny horrid things at bay.

My honest opinion is that peas aren’t really viable, they’re a real ball ache to grow, I find them tedious to pod enough for a meal however walking by them picking and eating them straight from the pod is a joy and makes it possibly worth the effort.

Lettuce, brassica plants and beetroot

amongst other seeds will be sewn this month in trays in my greenhouse at home.

I usually start some early carrots around this time and I grow them in large tubs about two and a half feet high to try and stop the carrot fly getting at them.

Many so-called gardening experts will tell you that the carrot fly cannot fly above 18 inches, I promise you this is not the case on my plot they must turn up with a ladder because they managed to get at my carrots in these tubs last year so this year I will also cover them with mesh and keep my fingers crossed ……we will see.

It’s taken me many years to realise nursing vegetables to life is a small part of having an allotment - it’s the constant battle against weeds that takes the majority of your time.

Doing an impression of the terminator is also required as it seems no matter what variety of fruit or vegetable you try grow there’s a bug that wants to either make its home within it or eat it.

Nevertheless if the weather is kind and all goes well the rewards can be fantastic and hopefully tasty.

RichardThorpe15b Syston Allotments

Syston and Thurmaston Litter Wombles

The Syston and Thurmaston Litter Wombles are taking part in the Keep Britain Tidy, Great British Spring Clean Campaign which runs from 15th to 31st March.

They have organised the following litter picks:

Saturday 16th March 10am Central Park, Syston

Tuesday 19th March 5.30pm Glebe Way/Meadow Lane, Syston

Friday 22nd March 10am venue tbc

Thursday 28th March 5.30pm venue tbc

If you would like to join in any of the above litter picks please visithttps:// www.facebook.com/groups/ 3287099171396033/events for details.

Moaning Fred

This is a new column requested by a resident, who has asked to write under the pseudonym ‘Moaning Fred’. All comments are their own and do not reflect the views of the Syston Town News

How many of you out there have a good moan to yourself about certain issues which get your goat so to speak, but no one really listens. May be you are like me and want a good moan well now’s your chance. What shall we kick it off with let’s look at the up and coming local and national elections we are expected to support.

My late wife bless her would not be able to vote. Why you might say?

Well, she hadn’t got a passport, nor a driving licence, nor a bus pass in other words no means of photo identification. So how many others out there are like that, you might be one of them.

We are suffering because of a few irresponsible people.

At the last general election, the conservatives got a whopping 80 seat majority, now I wonder who made that possible.

What about the Doctors getting an appointment?

Or having to pay by cash at certain establishment instead of either cash or card. Are they thinking of the customer or are they looking after themselves?

What about the Banks. What Banks?

We used to have five, now non, I was in the Banking hub recently and they couldn’t help this disabled lady, she had to go to Melton Mowbray Bank.

I have been advised I have to go to Loughborough, so what’s the point of a Banking Hub if you can’t get the service you want?

Well that’s enough moaning for now and believe me I have a lot more lined up for the future. If you have any moans you want to get off your chest, then write to me.

Moaning Fred at Syston Town News

email: contact@systontownnews.co.uk

Age Concern Syston

We thought we would give you an update on all that’s been happening as we’ve been very busy over the last few months.

We’ve had several staff changes; Keith one of our longstanding drivers and Andy who has worked in the office for the last few years have both retired thanks to both for all their support. We have appointed a new team of staff, Donna and Denise have joined Yvonne in the office and Rajesh is now running a Friday daycare group.

We have a training program underway for staff and volunteers which, wherever possible, we will open to other local charities which will benefit not only our members but also the wider community.

Our Wednesday coffee mornings (10.00 to 11.30am Syston Methodist Church Hall) continue to be popular with 2024 program of events underway with reassuring talk from the local police in January, gardeners question time in February and the Happy Ukulele Band around Easter. We have set the date, 23rd March 2024 10.00am to 2.00pm in the Methodist Church hall, for our Easter Craft Fayre so if you would like to have a stall please contact us on tel. 0116 260 1476 or email. info@ageconcernsyston.co.uk. This is a big fundraiser for us so we would love to see you there supporting us. There will be a free Easter Egg Hunt for the children, Grand Raffle with £100 cash prize and refreshments. Remember we can use any of your unwanted gifts for our tombola and raffles which help

us to raise funds to keep our charity running.

We continue to run regular minibus trips for our members and are always looking for volunteer drivers who may have some spare time occasionally. We are developing our online presence so please follow us on Facebook and have a look at our soon to be updated website.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis FIP

One of our readers has sent in this information about their beloved kitten who was diagnosed with this terrible disease Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).

They asked if we could include this small piece about it as their kitten was so young when she was taken from them. It is an uncommon and highly infectious disease which derives from a virus in cats called Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) which can be passed from cat to cat through faeces, sometimes from the mother or from being outside.

There is NO treatment to cure, just to make them comfortable. It ravaged her poor body making her blind, unable to use her back legs, not able to eat or drink and basically making her unable to do anything.

It is a very complex disease and our reader feels that maybe more people should be a little bit more aware of it, so they do not have to go through what they are at this sad moment in time. You can find our more information about FIP by visiting either the purina website: https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/ health/symptoms/fip-in-cats

Or the Goddard Vet Group https://www. goddardvetgroup.co.uk/blog/what-isfip/

Starting the Season Early!

Looking for something to do during the Easter Holidays? The Baldwin Trust are excited to launch the new boating season on the 25th March 2024.

Our boats are centrally heated, so any spring chill will pose no problems. If you book a 4 hour cruise for up to 12 people between 25th March and 7th April 2024, you may even find a little treat from the Easter Bunny on board!

Trips depart from Leicester Marina in Thurmaston or Barrow Boating in Barrow upon Soar; you can explore the River Soar and Grand Union Canal north or south from each departure point. The trips are fully crewed by our trained volunteers, so all you need to do is sit back and relax – though there’s plenty of opportunities to steer the boat and navigate locks should you choose!

Our boats are fully wheelchair accessible,

with kitchen equipment, fridge, microwave and hot water for making tea and coffee. There’s also a fully accessible toilet on board.

Contact web@baldwintrust.co.uk , ring 07923 817 718 or visit our website at www.baldwintrust..co.uk for more details.

The Baldwin Trust has been serving the community for over 40 years, providing private boat trips, with crew, for up to 12 people on wheelchair accessible narrowboats.

Wordsearch Winners

Our picture shows L-R: Nancie, Archie, Rie and Noah.

On Saturday 27th January our wordsearch winners were presented with their prizes by Rie at TESCO Syston. Congratulations to them and please do complete and return the Easter Wordsearch included in the April issue as Easter is at the end of March beginning of April.

Thank you to TESCO, Syston for your continued support of the competition.

Leicester Windows Supplies Celebrate 20 Years

When you pass through Syston, you will find the Leicester Windows Supplies showroom, almost opposite Syston Health Centre. The company is 20 years old this year and has been successfully supplying and fitting high-quality UPVC and aluminium windows, blinds, doors, bifolds and roof lights to both the trade and the public.

The company was established in 2004 when Mick Clayton and Mahesh Bhagat decided to branch out on their own. When they started, they had one clear aim: to offer a quality service at competitive prices. A lot of companies may make that promise, but 20 years of sustained growth proves they made the right decision. The owners grew their business from humble beginnings, starting in a spare bedroom, then a converted garage and then in 2005, they moved to a small industrial unit close to the Leicester Space Centre. In 2008, they took on their first employee and, in 2013, moved into the former Robin Hood Golf shop, where they now employ over 25 local people and also manufacture aluminium bi-folding doors at their premises at 1309 Melton Road, Syston. Walk into the showroom, and you will see many displays of high-quality, energyefficient windows, doors and conservatories. You will be greeted

Thank you

by friendly, experienced and helpful staff who will help you plan your next project, which could be a complete house conservatory or replace one door or window if that’s all you require.

Leicester Window Supplies are CERTASS registered, so you can be confident that everything confirms to regulations, and many of the products also come with a 10-year guarantee, ensuring your investment is protected.

Mick said, “To be celebrating 20 years is a huge milestone for the company, we always had a dream to work for ourselves and are delighted to be celebrating 20 years. Looking to the future, we plan to bring our children into the business, continue to increase our product range and embrace changing technology.”

Mahesh said, “Customer recommendations have always been our key. If there are problems we do everything to address any issues. We pride ourselves on our customer care, and we guarantee complete customer satisfaction. We could not have reached 20 years without the loyalty and support of our dedicated staff and our many customers.”

For more information on the products and services available from Leicester Window Supplies, visit the showroom or get in touch to book a consultation or get a no-hassle, free, no-obligation quote. Call 0116 266 5088 or email info@leicesterwindowsupplies.co.uk or visit their comprehensive website www.leicesterwindowsupplies.co.uk.

Thank you to everyone who bought a copy of the 2024 Calendar.

The sales raised an amazing £596 for Future Dreams House, a breast cancer charity, which although based in London supports anyone from across the UK who has been touch by cancer.

For more details please visit their website: https://futuredreams.org.uk/

Friends of Barkby Road Cemetery

Hello everyone. Wild March is here bringing with it blustery winds and the ever present rain. Also, it brings the lovely Cherry Blossoms and Spring flowers.

The Chapel displays this month will include St David’s Day – Mother’s Day – St Patrick’s Day and Easter, so it will be a busy month for me setting up the different displays, enjoy your celebrations. The picture above is of the Valentine’s Day display.

The Friends of Syston Cemetery have been busy and now most of the dead flowers and Christmas Wreaths have been removed. Thank you those who have helped with this. I know I say this every month but remember the Chapel is available to hire and if you would like to plant a Standard Rose bush along the gravel runway or adopt the fountain then please contact Catherine Voyce at Syston Town Council on 0116 260 7150.

Take care everyone. Ros

Grow Give Live Update

March already – one of our favourite months here at Grow Give Live; officially the start of Spring - hopefully it will be warming up enough for us to start getting those seeds in!

We are excited to share two big pieces of news – we are now a registered charity (registered charity number 1206308); this allows us to progress discussions with Charnwood Borough Council regarding the land on Glebe Way

These things take time, but we’re happy to have achieved the major milestone of charity status to keep us moving forward.

NEW BARKBY WI

Shirley Franklin, President, welcomed New barkby W.I. members to the institutes February meeting. As January’s meeting had to be cancelled everyone was wished a ‘Happy New Year’.

‘Jerusalem’ was sung, followed by business matters.

Members were informed of committee member, Joy Goulden’s husband, Richard, who had passed away recently, and notice of his funeral arrangements were given out.

Speaker Adrian Walker, with power-point presentation, showed a photograph of himself beside a sign ‘Adrians Wall’

Secondly – we now have an allotment plot! We’d like to thank Syston Town Council and the Syston Allotment Society for enabling this.

We are thrilled to have a space within Syston that can be used for community gardening; over the next few weeks and months we’ll be sharing more about how you can get involved with the plot, so do watch out for more information on our Facebook page and here in the Syston

(omitting the initial ‘H’).

With a group of volunteers, setting out by coach to Wallsend, the real walk began for ‘Walking along the length of Hadrian’s Wall’ (a Roman fortification to mark the northern boundary of England). The trek began at Wallsend and ended at Bowers-on-Solway. There were many stops and overnight stays during the walk - even on stop that had a hot tub, a welcome treat for those weary travellers, averaging 14 miles per day (approximately 100 miles in total).

Although most of the journey was in the countryside, the group had to cross the M6 motorway, and other landmarks including witnessing the Appleby Horse Fair, and reaching the River Eden where it joined the River Esk.

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Town News

With the growing number of projects we have underway around Syston, we’ve invested in some ‘uniform’ so you can spot us out and about – keep your eyes peeled and do say hi if you see us!

A couple of dates for your diary: Sunday 3rd March at 9.30am – meeting at Scotia Press on St. Peter’s Street for work on the community planters. We’re holding our first Garden Café of the year on Wednesday 20th March, 7pm at the Pharmacie Arms – this will include our AGM, where we’ll share a summary of activity last year, and plans for the future. Follow us on Facebook (https://www. facebook.com/growgivelive/) or email us on growgivelivesyston@gmail.com to stay in touch.

The money raised by the volunteers is funding for LOROS.

There was a question and answer period at the end of the talk, before social time out and refreshments.

Jan Oliver gave the vote of thanks.The competition: ‘A picture of the Coast’ was won by Lou Chapman with a painting of Bocastle, Cornwall, and the raffle was won by Eileen Hull.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 6th March in Syston Community Centre beginning at 7.30pm. The speaker will be Geoff Harris who will give a talk entitled ‘Folklore, Folk Tales and Funny Folk’.

Visitors are always welcome to attend.

With 30 years of working in your your area, I would be pleased to give you pleased free advice and a free quotation free advice and a free quotation

Chris’s Diamond Day Out

as they left at five o’clock Chris gave his guests a quiz on know your host which gave everyone a laugh!

On Saturday 3rd February 35 friends of Chris Freeman meet at the Grosvenor for bacon butties and coffee before heading out on a trip to a brewery in Oakham, in celebration of Chris’s Birthday!

Chris said afterwards that the day itself seemed a bit of a blur but that could have been to do with how much alcohol he drank.

They got to the Grain Store Brewery at Oakham around one o’clock and had an hour of a unlimited bar followed by a meal of sausage and Mash. The brewery tour followed and

When they got back, they continued the party at the Pharmacie Arms for a couple of more hours.

Chris wanted a special mention to go to his friend Nick who came all the way from Wainfleet without the use of the train to join in the diamond day celebrations at Oakham.

At the time of going to print Chris has raised around £650.00 plus with more donations expected, he is hoping to get nearer to £700.00 which will help local causes around the Wreake Valley Rotary District.

Thurmaston Community Library

The Thurmaston Community Library is looking for volunteers to work within the library on Silverdale Drive, Thurmaston on Wednesdays 10.00am to 12.00 noon, and Thursdays 5.00pm to 7.00pm (other times are also available). Full training will be given.

Please contact Sarah or Liz at Thurmaston Library on 0116 269 2277 Thursdays between 2.005.00pm

THE POWER OF PRINT

Social media is great but print lasts Cut through the digital noise with an advert in the Syston Town News

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

Annual Lamp 5k Mental Health Challenge Is Back Bigger

than Ever

Five-Month-Long Charity Fundraiser Raising Awareness of Mental Health

Leicester-based mental health charity Lamp has launched its annual Lamp 5k challenge five months ahead of the big 5k Park Run finale in May in a bid to encourage 5,000 fundraising champions to take part in the ‘5k Your Challenge, Your Choice’ campaign.

The five-month-long Lamp 5k campaign encourages people of all abilities across the world to take on the challenge of raising £50 each by taking part in any activity. So far, Lamp has had participants sign up to complete a ‘5 hot wings challenge’ and thrill seekers pledging to jump out of planes.

The campaign began in January and ends in May to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week from May 13th to 19th as well as a Leicester 5k run at Victoria Park with Lamp Ambassador Greg Hollingsworth

accompanied by many of the local community.

The completion of 5,000 small challenges each raising £50 could raise a quarter of a million pounds for Lamp.

The annual event has been incredibly successful since it began in 2021, gaining support from fundraising champions all over the world. Last year, participants tracked their progress through the Strava app, seeing people from as far as India and the US taking part.

In previous years, participants were challenged to complete a distance of 5k whether it be swimming, running, or cycling. Now, people are encouraged to use their imagination and take part in small challenges to raise money and mental health awareness.

Some ideas to get you thinking:

� Couch to 5k

� Squat challenge

� Bake off event

� Sky dive

Liam Deacy, Chief Operating Officer at Lamp, said:

“Ideally, we’d love to have 5,000 people taking part, doing a small challenge each to raise £50. If we reach that target, it could result in £250,000 raised. That will allow us to see 333 people from the start to the

Jane Green and Claire Wheeler have been working together for over twenty years and have 50 years combined experience working in our local community on legal matters for a recently retired independent Syston High Street Solicitor and are experienced Will and Lasting Power of Attorney advisors.

We understand that some people find it uncomfortable addressing these matters, we offer free local home visits to make you feel at ease and offer explanations in plain English. We appreciate that not everyone has a computer or is confident using modern technology and so we keep things as straight forward as possible and for those people we use good old fashioned post or a simple telephone call.

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end of their mental health journey as it costs an average of £750 to help each person overall. The team is so proud of the work everyone put in last year. This year, we hope to drum up even more awareness now that we’ve expanded the possibilities of the Lamp 5k challenge. Now that we have extended the time period that people can get involved, I’m keen to see even more people taking part all over the world over the next five months completing 5k in their own way. Taking away the need to run a distance of 5k takes off the pressure and is more inclusive to people who can’t physically do that.

The ‘5k your way’ aspect allows people to do any small challenge that will support their own mental and physical health.”

Sign up and download the Lamp 5k pack at lampadvocacy.co.uk.

Banking Hub Now Open

Syston’s new banking hub has opened in the old Santander building on Melton Road.

The banking hub will be open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm.

The interior is very nice with plenty of room for people wanting to use the facilities. There is a limited number of seats too.

The following banks are available for face to face meetings on the following days:

Monday - Santander

Tuesday - NatWest

Wednesday - Lloyds

Thursday - HSBC

Friday - Barclays

March

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

Jupiter is influencing your finances at the moment, so try to make the most of the luck and harmony that this planet brings. So success with cash comes easily to you and expect short-term business trips of a pleasant and helpful nature. And as old wounds may resurface this month, exciting new dreams inspire you.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

Jupiter in your sign gives you hope and lifts your spirits! You will also feel kindly towards others, inspired to do favours and to help out where you can. As a result, your popularity goes through the roof. Uranus – the very clever planet of the genius – is already journeying through your chart and with Jupiter makes you infallible.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

You give your all at work although it does seem to be getting quite personal. You’re working with colleagues and also socialising with them and so there's lots going on, on an emotional level too! Making some new plans seems to be the way forwards and helps to distract you at times when the going gets tough and intense.

CANCER June 21 - July 22

You hanker for something different, maybe a bit of travel, culture and learning perhaps? So a holiday or a short break will do you good and friends and family will be more than pleased to join you in any adventure or social event. Work is challenging at times and may give you some angst; spending time with others really helps.

* * * * * * * *

LEO July 23 - August 22

Positive planetary activity in your partner’s life helps you to calm any difficult personal issues and especially when it comes to relationship conflicts. You will then be freed up to concentrate on your career and to take advantage of the planet Pluto – currently opposite your sign - which helps you build personal power and understanding.

VIRGO August 23 - Sept 22

The full moon in your sign helps you to heal old issues and solve any longstanding problem. But do try to ‘go with the flow' and not beat yourself up if things don't quite go your own way. A partner has a great deal ‘on their plate' and will be distracted from spending time with you. This is temporary so try to help them if you can.

LIBRA Sept 23 - Oct 22

A friend or loved one has a difficult emotional problem that is giving them some pain! So speak with them to get things off their chest and this will help greatly. Work is surprisingly tough and you're having to put a good deal of yourself into things. Goodness, it's almost totally taking over so do find time out to relax and unwind.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 22

A partner is fairly inspired and comes up with something simply wonderful! So listen out for a great idea or new project of theirs which has success written all over it. They also suggest a holiday or short trip away, so get ready to spring into action and don't miss out on all the fun. Hobbies are particularly enjoyable.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 21

Home matters are intense and you grapple with the emotional confusions of family and partners. You help where you can but manage to also stand back and look after your own interests and energy levels. You go off a hobby, no longer finding it as enjoyable! You'd rather shine at work where your ideas go down well.

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19

Life is quiet although you have a few financial matters to take care of, before you can finally move on from these. Work picks up and there's enough socialising and fun to be had by all! A little light flirting is also likely and is likely to add to the humour and enjoyment; this distracts you from problems at home.

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18

As Mars and Venus move out of your sign, after a brief visit, they seem to have stirred up quite a few raw emotions and confusing feelings that need dealing with. So take some time out to deal with these and maybe time itself is all that's needed. Family help you to sort out a work issue and solve a tough financial problem.

PISCES Feb 19 - March 20

With the Sun, Mars, Venus and Mercury all making an appearance in your sign this month, there's a good deal going on for Pisceans on a personal level. With the planet Saturn already here – the planet of hard work – and your own planet Neptune – the eternal dreamer –your sign is really just so crowded! Try to have a holiday!

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.

More information can be obtained from Val Foreman - 0116 260 9635

Syston Floods Update

Since writing the article that appeared in the February issue, things have moved on.

Your editor has attended more Syston Town Council’s meetings and listened to the progress being made.

For residents, it is frustrating not to see any action with regard to clearing the Barkby Brook.

However, it is good to report that The Environment Agency (EA) have been in February to cut back trees and vegetation around the car park and along the brook. However, a lot of these trees are Willows and they will regrow from the base, so if the desilting that is planned for this year isn’t done as soon as the water has receded to a safe level, they will begin to grow and cause more problems.

The Town Council are putting as much pressure as they can on the EA and with the help of the residents doing the same between us hopefully, the brook

will be put back to how it was twenty years ago.

As we reported last issue the Stn had been in touch with the EA and reported the failure of the early warning system in the brook and about the sluice gates on the Grand Union Canal. Below is the response we received:

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said:

“Asset ID 559563 is a river level gauge located on Brookside in Syston. The gauge is currently used by the Environment Agency to issue a high river level alarm to internal Flood Incident Duty Officers which instigates flood patrols.

“The Environment Agency aims to provide a flood warning service to Syston by the end of this calendar year. The data to issue the alerts and warnings will be taken from this river level gauge asset.”

Background

� The Environment Agency is not responsible for the gates identified in the photograph sent, which was published last month’s Stn, (gates numbered 55). To clarify, we hold no records of third-party gates downstream that could be opened to release more water.

In the recent flood the Melton Mowbray area received 34mm of rainfall in four hours. Under normal circumstances 34mm would be expected to fall over a 2–3 week period.

Since receiving this reply Stn has contacted the Canals and River Trust under the Freedom of Information Act and sent photographs of the Sluice Gates and Weir. At the time of going to print we are awaiting their reply and will update you in the April issue.

The community is working hard with the Town Council and other agencies to get the Barkby Brook back to the way it was designed. This was to aid the flow of water through the town in order to protect homes and businesses from flooding.

This will take time, due to the level of the water in the brook currently and the EA saying it will be in their next financial year commencing April 2024.

A local company has offered to help with removing the silt from the brook, the Town Council is following this up to establish if the company has a licence from either the County Council or the EA in order to do work.

Photo courtesy of M. Furniss

Our picture of Barkby Brook after clearance showing silt.

The Government has made funding support available to households in Charnwood which were flooded during Storm Henk between 2nd and 12th January 2024.

Details of each scheme for households and how to apply can be found below. The deadline for application is Thursday March 21, 2024.

Community Recovery Grant

For flooded households meeting the criteria, a Community Recovery Grant of £500 is available to help with immediate recovery costs.

If you have had to move out of your home where you normally live, or it is considered unliveable for at least 48 hours because of Storm Henk, you could be eligible for a Community Recovery Grant and/or 100% discount on Council Tax.

The grant is £500 and paid direct to the household

Households are eligible where the living accommodation has been flooded or the home has been left uninhabitable for at least 48 hours due to flooding, such as when utilities have been cut off

The grant does not apply to empty homes, student accommodation or second homes

If you are the bill payer for council tax purposes on a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), flat, you are eligible to claim the Community Recovery Grant Council Tax Discount Scheme

If flood water entered the habitable areas of your home or flood water did not enter into the habitable areas, but the residence was otherwise considered unliveable as a result of the recent floods for at least 48 hours, you will receive a 100% discount on your Council Tax for a minimum of three months – this means you do not have to pay Council Tax during this period. After three months, if you moved out and have not been able to return home, you may not have to pay Council Tax until you move back.

If you are not able to move back into your home after three months, please tell us so that this discount may be extended.

You may also be able to claim a discount on any Council Tax that you are paying on a second or rented property that you are living in temporarily as a result of not being able to live in your main home.

Instances where households might be considered unliveable could include:

Where access to the property is severely restricted Services such as sewerage, waste and

power supplies are severely affected

The adverse weather has resulted in other significant damage to the property, such that it would be, or would have been, advisable for residents to vacate, regardless of whether they do vacate or not

Flooded gardens and garages will not usually render a household eligible but there may be exceptions where it could be demonstrated that such instances mean effectively that the property is unliveable.

Second homes, and empty homes are not eligible for this scheme. What we need from you

So that we can consider your claim and make payment to you if you are eligible. We will ask you to provide:

• details about you

• details of your affected property

• evidence of the flooding which could include photographs

• a bank statement in the name of the liable council tax payer

• bank account details of the liable council tax payer

• your Council Tax reference number

Business Recovery Grant

Small-to-medium sized businesses in affected areas could receive up to £2,500 from the Business Recovery Grant for flood damage to property, equipment, stock or trade loss because customers or suppliers could not reach them.

To be eligible for the Business Recovery Grant the business must:

Be a small-to-medium sized business:

• Have fewer than 250 employees; and

• Have a turnover of less than 50m euros or a balance sheet total less than 43m euros

• Be directly impacted by the relevant weather event – for instance flood damage to the property, equipment, and/or stock; or the business could not function due to a lack of access to premises, equipment and/or stock as a result of the recent weather events, and the flooding seriously impacted the businesses’ ability to trade from the property.

Empty properties, storage sheds and warehouses are not eligible, unless the business was actively trading from them at the time of the flooding.

Have appropriate flood insurance cover in place or have actively made attempts to insure the business premises against flood damage on at least one occasion since 1st January 2023.

Direct impact from Storm Babet: If a business experienced direct impact, such as flood damage to the property, and received a grant under Storm Babet and reinstated the premises, it is eligible to apply for funding related to Storm Henk. However, eligibility for Storm Henk funding is contingent upon the premises being directly impacted, specifically with flood damage to the property.

Indirect Impact from Storm Babet: For businesses that were indirectly affected by Storm Babet and received a grant,

they are eligible to apply for Storm Henk funding only if they have subsequently experienced direct impact with flood damage to the property.

Business Rate Relief

Businesses significantly impacted by flooding due to Storm Henk, and unable to open their business because it was flooded, may qualify for 100% business rates relief for at least three months. 100% rate relief for a minimum of 3 months.

This is subject to the UK subsidy control regime, and is only available to properties with a rateable value of less than £10 million

What we need from you

So that we can consider your claim and make payment to you if you are eligible. We will ask you to provide:

• a copy of your insurance certificate along with other evidence of flooding, such as photographs, or evidence that you have actively made attempts to insure your business against flooding and obtain insurance cover since 1st January 2023.

• your business rates reference number

• your bank account details

• a bank statement in the name of the liable council tax payer

Dear Editor,

Thank you for the coverage of the Syston floods in your last edition of the Syston Town News. I just want to make the readers andthose elected members of the Council/Parliament aware, that the 2ndJanuary 2024 wasn’t the end of it for some residents of Syston and some are still not back in their homes.

My 87 year old mother had to move out on the evening of the 2ndto stay with my sister and we have a timescale of six months before her property will be ready for her to move back into.Luckily she lives in sheltered housing and has now been offered accommodation at another property in Syston but this is a massive upheaval and isn’t the same as being in her own home.

This is the same for a lot of Syston residents that were displaced on that night, and we also have the worry of ‘when will it happen again’.

So whilst the Syston Town Council and the Environment Agency play tit for tat and discuss the Riparian rights and whose responsibility it is, I think they should consider the people of Syston and show some empathy as that was clearly lacking at the Council meeting of the 9th January.

C. Jones Syston

© 1996

is published by CURZON GRAPHICS

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 SWALLOW DRIVE SWIFT CLOSE CAMPION AVENUE SPRING COURT

FINAL COPY DATE FOR APRIL 2024 ISSUE IS: Wednesday 13th March

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

green pages

DIRECTORY

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

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Post Office, Syston. 0116 260 3765

Age Concern Syston. 0116 260 1476

CRIMESTOPPERS. 0800 555 111

Parkinson's UK. 0808 800 0303

Roadline. 0800 62 63 63

Samaritans. 0116 270 0007

Severn Trent. 0800 783 444

Syston Volunteer Centre. 0116 260 7888

Syston Flood Wardens:

Cllr Ian Hayes: 0740 027 8778

Ree Nugent: 0792 721 5477

Maxwell Nugent: 0793 688 0825

Neil Skinner: 0778 088 1897 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. 0116 269 6492

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 Friday 9.00am to 12.30pm.

Syston & District Volunteer Centre 18 School Street, Syston.

Office open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm. 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

CHURCH GROUPS

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

Syston Methodist Church, High Street Sunday Service 10.30am Holy Communion Service, every second and fourth Tuesday in the month, at 10am.

Contact: Rev Paula Hunt 0116 267 3960.

St Peter and St Paul CoE, Upper Church Street. Syston services are every Sunday Eucharist at 10am and Wednesday morning at 9.30pm https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/ 5257/get-in-touch/

Contact: Rev. Ros Harper, Team Vicar 0116 286 7925. Day Off - Mondays.

CLEANING

SERVICES

Done & Dusted

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

COMPUTER SERVICES

Think Digital Project

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

CONSERVATORY ROOF CLEANER

Clean Start

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

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

CRAFTS

North Leicestershire Beaders

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

Syston & District U3A Craft Groups

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

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Kevins Domestic Appliances

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

DRIVING SCHOOLS

Wheel Pass

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

ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES

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

ELECTRICIANS

Letts Electrical Services

NICEIC registered Tel: 0116 259 7137 Mob: 0786 651 6286. All Electrical Work Undertaken. M A Skinner Electrical Services

Syston Based, reliable, no job too small. Mob: 0799 098 1297.

FLOWER AND GARDEN GROUPS

Allotment Society

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

Birstall Flower Club

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

Brooksby Gardening Club

Meets on the third Wednesday from September to May 10am for 10.30am, Rugby Club, Barkby Road, Queniborough. If you have not visited us previously but this new time suits you we will welcome your visit.

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

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

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Furnley House

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

FUNCTIONS & EVENT

Syston R.F.C.

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

GARAGES

Queniborough County Garage

Tel: 0116 260 0081/260 2288.

GAS SERVICING

Gas-Servwell

Tel: 0116 236 7923 Mob: 0786 073 5066. Unigas Heating Services

Tel: 01664 434 742.

GUIDING IN SYSTON

Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Senior Section & Trefoil

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

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

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

GUTTER CLEANING

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: 07470 204060. email: djk03@hotmail.co.uk

HAIRDRESSING

Antehc Hair and Skin Studio Specialist in hair loss and anti-ageing. Mob: 07877 981 877.

Tracy’s at Syston Tel: 0116 260 9582.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Indoor Bowls

Syston Community Centre

Wednesdays 1.45pm to 3.45pm

£1.20 per week. For more details contact C. Palmer on 0750 610 9549.

Over the Hill Walking Club

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

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

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

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

Syston Young at Heart Group

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

HEALTH FOODS

The Body Store

Qualified to give free advice 13 Town Square, Syston LE7 1GZ Tel: 0116 269 4348.

HISTORY GROUPS

Barkby Local History Group

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

Syston Local History Group

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

KITCHENS

& BEDROOMS

LFI Kitchens & Bedrooms

Mob: 0771 570 8809.

Swift Fitted Furniture Ltd. Manufacturers of fitted Kitchens, Bedrooms and Home Offices. Contact: 0116 246 0686.

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.

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

Meet at ‘The Hut’ - next to the Bowls club (Central Park). Every Monday at 7.30pm to practice. 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. Ukulele Group

Meets 7.30pm to 9.30pm on a Wednesday evening at the Syston and District Social Club, High Street, Syston. For more details contact Graham Molloy email: grahammolloy@gmail.com Tel: 0751 776 4878.

NURSERIES & PRE-SCHOOLS

Broad Street Playgroup

Catholic Church Hall, 63 Broad Street. Funded places for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. Mob: 0770 250 4113.

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

Tel: 01509 812 973 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: djk03@hotmail.co.uk

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: Clive (Group Chairman) 0116 269 3532. 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. 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

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.

M&S Sign Club (British Sign Language)

Thursdays 3.00pm to 5.00pm. Just drop in to M&S Thurmaston on Barkby Lane. 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 0116 269 3542.

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 & 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 Family Activity Group

Meets every fortnight at different locations on a Tuesday night, plus days out and camps. Arranging anything like archery, canoeing, climbing, biking, bushcraft, cooking etc. For details please get in touch with Stu on 0797 003 4597.

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

Syston Friendship Group cont’d 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 Twinning Association

Syston is twinned with Deville les Rouen, Normandy. If you would like more details about joining us please contact our Chairperson, Fiona on 0116 260 9744. Thurmaston Ladies meet at Thurmaston RBL, Melton Rd, Thurmaston on the 2nd Tuesday of the month.

For further information please contact Elsa on 0771 974 3411 or Eileen on 0745 560 4296.

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

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 email: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 eight years Friday 6.00pm to 6.50pm Juniors and Adults mixed classes Tuesday 6.00pm to 6.50pm, Sunday 4.00pm to 5.00pm. St Peter and St Paul’s Primary Academy, Upper Church St, Syston. First month free. 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.

TAXI

Apollo Cars

Tel: 0116 260 7070.

TELEVISION

Glenfield Television

Tel: 0116 287 1762.

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

WATER SPORTS CLUBS

Leicester Penguins Swimming Club

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

WATER SPORTS CLUBS

Cont’d

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 WINDOW CLEANING

Clarity

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

What’s On Diary for March

WORLD DAY OF PRAY

Friday 1st March

10.30am

Syston RC Church, Broad Street. Annual World Day of Prayer Service. Everyone Welcome

BROADWAY GOSPEL HALL

Sunday 3rd March

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

NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME OPEN GARDENS

Sunday 3rd March

11.00am to 4.00pm

Tresillian House

67 Dalby Road, Melton Mowbray LE13 0BQ

Sunday 17th March

2.00pm to 5.00pm

Gunthorpe Hall

Gunthorpe, Oakham LE15 8 BE

Visit the National Gardens Scheme website: ngs.org.uk for more details

FILMS IN SYSTON

Monday 4th March - Book Club - The Next Chapter

Doors open at 1.30pm.

Tickets are now available at the Card Shop in Syston or on the door at The Old Chapel, Chapel St. Syston

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 0116 269 2756

Charnwood Wigs W.I.

Meets last Thursday of the month at 7.30pm. Beedles Lakes Golf Club, East Goscote. Visitors £4.00. 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,

SYSTON POLICE BEAT SURGERIES

Tuesday 5th March

10.00am to 11.00am

Syston Community Centre, School Street, Syston.

COMMUNAL BINGO

Every Wednesday 2.00pm

Syston Conservative Club, High Street. Everyone Welcome.

SYSTON LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

Monday 18th March

7.30pm

Talk given by John Whitehead on Ernest Shackleton.

Membership available £10 per person per year. Visitors £2 per meeting. Mmethodist Church Centre, High Street, Syston.

HOBY & DISTRICT LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY LECTURE

Wednesday 20th March

7.30pm

Tickets: Members Free, Guests £2.00 ‘Roman Lifestyles: Further Excavations at the Rutland Roman Villa’ by John Thomas

Hoby Village Hall, Main Street, Hoby, Melton Mowbray LE14 3DT

Happy Easter

Maundy Thursday 28th March

Good Friday 29th March

Easter Sunday 31st March

Easter Monday Bank Holiday 1st April

School Street. Visitors always welcome. For more details contact President Mrs Shirley Franklin on 0116 260 8498.

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

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

deanna@systontownnews.co.uk

Please help keep Syston Clean & Safe!

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

Dog Owners Clean up after your dog.

BIRSTALL FLOWER CLUB

Wednesday 27thMarch

7.15pm

Birstall Village Hall

Demonstrators: Paula Routledge

Title: Life's A Ball

Visitors: £7

Queries to: Sylvia 0116 267 4206 or Carol 0116 267 1437.

Social media is great but print lasts!

Cut through the digital noise with an advert in the Syston Town News

To advertise YOUR BUSINESS

contact 0116 269 3221

fiona@systontownnews.co.uk

“Dead Wicked”

We suspect you’re ready for our next production, and we have two thriller one-act comedy plays that will have you on the edge of your seat this May. Our first whodunnit offering is ‘Bang You’re Dead’, by Paul Reakes.

Lydia and her boyfriend Marcus rehearse the murder of Theo, Lydia’s husband, which they’re to commit that evening. When the victim and the ‘perfect witness’ arrive, the wellrehearsed plan appears to have an unrehearsed ending. A ghastly mistake – or are there some deviations from the original plot?

I’ve put pen to paper and written our second suspenseful comedy, ‘Something Wicked This Way Comes’. The play is set in the dressing room of Clarence Marchant – an old-school Shakespearean actor, who is playing the lead role of Macbeth. As Clarence’s career unravels at the bottom of the bottle and a mysterious accident on-stage stops him in his

tracks, understudy Dominic takes centre stage, unaware of the dark secrets surrounding him.

Has Polly (Dominic’s fiancé and fellow actor) been pulling the strings behind the scenes, has stage manager Trevor caused Clarence’s downfall, has Claire (Clarence’s dresser) pulled out a show-stopping performance herself?

Two years later, Dominic is now a successful actor, playing Hamlet, and has returned to the same theatre and dressing room. Suddenly ghosts from the past start to appear in haunting revelations. Is the price of fame all it’s cracked up to be, or has Dominic been left with blood on his hands?

Rehearsals are just kicking off (at the time of going to print) and we’re delighted to bring three new faces to the stage since our last show – Andy Biggins, Ranata Maynard and Jack Marlowe. We’ve got a killer line-up ready to knock you dead:

Cast – ‘Bang You’re Dead!’ by Paul Reakes

Lydia Spink – Jo Gallagher

Theo Spink - Matt Ormerod

Amelia Trim – Donna Gunn

Marcus Harwood – Leigh White

Cast – ‘Something Wicked This Way Comes’ by Leigh White

Clarence – Jules Richards

Dominic – Matt Ormerod

Claire – Kat Seddon

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Polly – Ranata Maynard

Pauline – Gillian Bowler

Reg – Andy Biggins

Trevor – Jack Marlowe

Andrew – Toby Garner

Crew

Director – Leigh White

Assistant Director – Kat Seddon

Production Manager – Louise Knowles

Technical – Spike Chapman

Continuity – Jude Latham

Front of House – Lesley Smith

Join us for an evening of mystery, intrigue, thrills, and spills:

� 21st to 24th May 2024

� Performances start 7:30pm

� The Old Chapel, Chapel Street, Syston, LE7 1GN (off High Street)

� Tickets £9 (concessions £8) available soon

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

Leigh White, Director

Syston’s Only Dedicated Newspaper

St Peter and St Paul’s Church News

Joint service It was a very special Sunday on January 14th when members of the congregation of St Peter & St Paul’s Church welcomed members of the congregations of St Hilda’s, East Goscote, and Syston Methodist Church to hear the visiting preacher, Jo Kay.

Her sermon was based on the Gospel for the day, from Luke where Jesus turned water into wine after the wine had run out.This was his first recorded miracle. However, Jo introduced the thought that his mother, Mary, was already aware how special Jesus was and that, previously, since he was a child, he may have helped other people but it was never recorded.

It was a very joyous occasion with some rousing hymns especially those of the founders of the Methodist Church, Charles and Samuel Wesley. Following the service there were refreshments in the Church Centre and time for fellowship. Families @ 4pm Easter at St Peter and St Paul’s Church

The Church will be preparing to celebrate Easter by having a series of services during Holy Week before celebrating Easter Day itself on Sunday the 31st March.

On 25th, 26th and 27th March at 7.30pm there will be Stations of the Cross, praying at each of the carvings on the walls of the church retelling the events of Holy Week. On Thursday 28th it is Maundy Thursday when there will be a Communion Service at 7.30pm recalling the first Communion Jesus had with his disciples. This will be followed by a Vigil kept for silent worship and prayer.

Good Friday the 29th March has a 10am Service of Children’s Easter Activities.

At 2pm there is a Service, The Hour of the Cross, at St Hilda’s Church, East Goscote.

And then on Easter Day 31st March at 10.30am we can celebrate in great happiness at a special Communion Service. Remembering the fact that Jesus rose again!

QT Theatre Group Christmas Production

The eagle eyed among you will have noticed that your editor made a mistake in her review of the second of the two plays performed at Christmas, I put a character from the first play in twice - for which I sincerely apologise to Jo Gallagher, I had correctly named her under photograph, shown left but missed her in my text! So sorry Jo as you were brilliant!

'Last Panto' L-R: Kat Seddon (Margaret), Jo Gallagher (Joyce), Ron Berry (Gordon) and Jules Richards (Bernard) To

My Council Tax Bill 2023/24 Has Just Come Through and I Am Concerned About How I Can Pay It

If you are already struggling to meet everyday household expenses the arrival of a new Council Tax demand can be a real worry. Citizens Advice Charnwood warns that it is particularly important not to ignore the bill as non- payment could lead to formal proceedings and court action. But help may be available.

First check your bill

Start by making sure you understand the bill. Check that your house is banded correctly and decide which method of payment is best for you. The bill can be paid in monthly instalments over 10 months but remember, if more than two payments are overdue, the full amount of annual Council Tax becomes due and legal proceedings can commence.

Make sure you are getting all the discounts you may be entitled to

� You can get a single person discount of 25% if you are the only adult in your home. When working out how many people live in the property some may be disregarded – for example if they are a student, live temporarily away from home, have a learning disability or severe mental impairment.

� If you or someone you live with is disabled, the Council Bill for the property may be reduced. The property must have an extra kitchen or bathroom and one other room required to meet the needs of the disabled person.

� If you qualify as a carer, providing at least 35 hours care a week for a someone who is living with you, but is not your spouse or partner, a further discount may apply.

� Full-time students on a university or college course or persons under 20 studying for a course up to A level of at least 3-month duration and involving a minimum of 12 hours study a week, are exempt from Council Tax.

If you are on a low income or receiving benefits

You may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction if you or people living with you are on a low income or in receipt of benefits. You will need to provide

evidence about your circumstances, income and any capital which must be less than £16,000. If in receipt of the guarantee part of Pension Credit the £16,000 limit does not apply. The amount of reduction to which you are entitled will be calculated based on the information provided. Further help may be available in the case of severe financial hardship.

If you cannot pay your Council Tax bill you should contact Charnwood Borough Council straight away to request a payment arrangement. You may also request for payments to be spread over a 12 month rather than a 10-month period.

All applications for Council Tax discounts, exemptions and reductions must be made online from the Charnwood Borough Council website. If you need further help with this or in understanding your Council Tax bill you can speak to one of our advisers. We can also help if you are struggling financially and worried about debt.

OurLocal Enquiry Line is 01509 649605 and is open Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays 9.30am3.00pm. Please visit our website for further details https://www. charnwoodcab.org.uk/ or use the national Citizens Advice website for more information about help with Council Tax and dealing with debt. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ We are an independent charity, and we rely on the support of people like you to help us make a difference to people in our local community. We help people with the problems they face, while campaigning to improve the policies and practices that affect people's lives.

You can donate to Citizens Advice Charnwood by making a one-time or regular monthly donation through Coop bank for the credit of Citizens Advice Charnwood - Account Number: 65879535 Sort Code: 089299

Or you can send a cheque to: Citizens Advice Charnwood, Woodgate Chambers, 70 Woodgate, Loughborough, LE11 2TZ.

More information about how to donate can be found on our website.

Thanks for your support!

Your Award Winning Paper

Time4leicestershire

Time4Leicestershire is a free skills exchange initiative run by Leicestershire County Council, and it has just landed in Charnwood! Members can sign up to share their skills and can request skills they would like in return.

‘Timebanking’ differs from volunteering as it allows people to swap skills at a time that suits them, with no minimum commitment needed. For every hour of time somebody gives, they receive an hour’s time credit that they can exchange for another skill.

How do I earn credits to start Timebanking?

� Everyone who signs up automatically gets 5 credits to start them off. Some people’s skills are likely to be more ‘in demand’ than others, so this gives everyone a chance to get started. We also have a community pot of credits that we can use - if you have an idea for a community Timebank project, get in touch and let’s make it happen!

How do I find out what’s on offer?

� Time4Leicestershire is an online skills marketplace. You register on the relevant Timebank, on the platform - https:// Time4Leicestershire.org.uk and then post offers or requests through your account. It’s really simple to use, but we’ll have regular pop-up hubs where you can drop in and get support with using the platform, ask questions, participate in taster sessions or just chat with other members. What type of skills can I swap?

� We’re looking for people with all kinds of skills! From practical skills like DIY or crafts, to ‘lend a hand’ type skills of giving someone a lift, or walking a dog, or maybe you’ve got digital skills to share, or you could help someone explore potential new hobbies like languages or music?

We’re also looking for ‘life skills’ that you might not even consider valuable, but someone else might – ironing a shirt, paying a bill, or planning meals – all skills! If you’ve got an unusual interest, like beekeeping, we’re equally keen to hear from you. And if you’re in a club or group, you can earn credits by bringing a potential new member found through the Timebank along with you, which benefits, you, the other member, and your group.

Roman Lifestyles: Further Excavations

at the Rutland Roman Villa by John Thomas

John Thomas, co-director of the dig, will give a talk on “Roman Lifestyles: Further Excavations at the Rutland Roman Villa” at the Hoby & District Local History Society on Wednesday March 20th, 7.30pm, Hoby Village Hall (LE14 3DT). All are welcome; the price for non members is £2.00 (pay on door) or visit www.hobyanddistricthistory. co.uk for more information.

Following the discovery and excavation of a unique Roman mosaic showing scenes from the Trojan War cycle on Rutland farmland in 2020/2021, archaeologists from University of Leicester and Historic England joined forces in 2022 to return to the site of the newly discovered villa to find out more.

A highly detailed image of the Roman villa complex had been provided by geophysical survey, which gave an excellent indication of where other buildings lay within the field surrounding the villa.

John will describe the results of these new excavations at one of the best preserved Roman villas in Leicestershire & Rutland, discussing what they can add to the story of this remarkable discovery, and setting the villa into the wider context of Roman rural life in Leicestershire and Rutland.

John Thomas is Deputy Director of ULAS has worked in archaeology for over 30 years (20 of those in Leicestershire). He has also directed excavations at several important Iron Age settlements in the area, including Burrough Hill and Glenfield Park. The Hoby & District Local History

Society is a voluntary organisation. The Society brings together people from all walks of life who are interested in the local history of the Leicestershire villages of Hoby, Rotherby, Ragdale and Brooksby and the District around them. The society was founded in 2013 as part of a village First World War research project for which it received a National Lottery Grant.

The Latimer Players Bring Farce to

Thurcaston

Following the enormously successful production of ‘Beauty and the Beast’, which sold to packed houses every night, The Latimer Players are pleased to announce their next production will be ‘Move Over Mrs Markham’ a farce written by hilarious comedy writers Ray Cooney and John Chapman. The Latimer Players last did this play in 1991 and feel it is still topical today.

The story is abouta couple whose 15-year-old marriage has lost some of the passion it used to have. To ignite the flame, they are going out to dinner but fail to tell each other that she has promised the flat to her friend whose neglectful husband is never home, and he has promised the flat to the same neglectful husband. Both couples hope to have a secret liaison with their intended lovers. Add into the mix the interior designer who has designs on the au pair and you have a fun packed evening of entertainment with the couples all vying for the master bedroom of the Markham’s apartment.

The production will take place in The Memorial Hall, Thurcaston on 25th, 26th and 27th April 2024. The evening’s entertainment will have café style seating where you are invited to bring drinks and nibbles to add to your enjoyment.

Tickets are priced at £8 each and are available from Christine Deavin –christinedeavin@gmail.com or 0116 237 6855.

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19 Great Lane, Frisby on the Wreake, Melton Mowbray LE14 2PB Tel: 01664 434 742 Mobile: 07971 198 543

• 15 Years British Gas Experience

• Landlord Certificates

• Appliance Installation

• Power Flushing

• Appliance Sales

• Boiler Replacement

• Servicing & Repair

• Central Heating No.

For an appointment please call

or

Syston Conservative Club

59 High Street, Syston

Why not book our Large Function Room

The Malt House Suite for Wedding Receptions and Parties

We Have Two Full Sized Snooker Tables in the Club

Quiz Nights: Sunday 10th March

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

A good selection of Beers, Wines and Spirits. Friendly Bar Staff

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

New Membership is Available

Tel: 0116 260 5775

Across

1. The Primary patron saint of Ireland (7)

3. An informal word for the answer of 19A (3)

5. Public transport used on the road (3)

7. This connects your head to your body (4)

8. Another word used for ‘Grownup’ (5)

9. You ran away to get married (6)

12. Leicester is in this Midland (4)

16. Material worn on the head and tied under the chin (9)

18. A book, document or piece of music written by hand (8)

19. We show this parent love and appreciation in March (5)

20. A painter uses this to hold their canvas (5)

Down

1. You flip these in a frying pan (8)

2. Our furry friends often stay in these (6)

3. A tropical and edible stone fruit (5)

4. An informal term for an instrument used by a singer (3)

5. Second part of a music genre; Pairs with Rhythm (5)

6. Sometimes people have collections that belong in _ _ _ _ (4)

10. Famous for its iconic Leaning Tower (4)

11. A yellow trumpet-like flower (8)

13. A common bird found in gardens (6)

14. A shortened term for a powder mostly used on babies (4)

15. When someone has ambitions and goals towards achieving something (6)

17. Another word for The Phonetic Alphabet (4)

The winner of the February Crossword is: Mr Stewart Cox of Syston

The answers for our February 2024 Crossword were:

Across:

1. Practical: 6. AC: 7. Ali: 8. Prison: 9. Train:

10. Deer: 13. Rage: 14. Mo: 18. Ice: 19. Cakes: 21. Musicals: 22. TBC: 23. Valentines.

Down:

1. Phantom: 2. Animal: 3. Tenant: 4. Cupid:

5. Loiter: 6. AWOL: 11. Racket: 12. Hens: 15. Fiji:

16. Depart: 17. Acts: 20. Tuna.

CROSSWORD

Ray Young

1944 to 2024

Readers of Syston Town News will be sad to hear that Ray Young, who was one of the founder members of the Syston History Group, died on Saturday 10th February aged seventy nine. Ray’s mother Minnie was a Syston woman. She married her husband Herbert during World War Two, and the couple had two children, Ray and his sister Margaret. Ray was born in St. Francis’s maternity home in Leicester in October 1944, and attended Syston Infant and Junior Schools before going on to Secondary Education at Loughborough College School. As a boy Ray attended The ‘Primitive Methodist’ church (which was on the Melton Road where the British Telecom building is now) with his family. He was a founder member of the Boys’ Brigade troop there and later a Captain of the Brigade.

When Ray left school he already had an interest in vintage and antique artefacts and he applied for a job at the Leicester firm of Warner, Shepherd and Wade; -an estate agent and auctioneers which was situated on Halford Street. While working there Ray studied for a qualification with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and he later became a partner in the firm.

Ray married Margaret Asher in 1971, and he became a member of the Methodist Church on High Street, where he undertook various roles. He was the Property Secretary there for many years, and during the 1980s he stage-managed several of the successful shows that the Church put on.

The Start of Syston Local History Group

In 1988 an appeal was published in Syston’s monthly newspaper ‘the Grapevine’, to see if there was any interest in forming a local history group. In response to this eight people met in the small hall at the Methodist Church that May. Among those attending were Jim Cowling, Ernest and Mary Gamble and their son Dennis, Terry Neal, Lynn Whitehead, Edward Gamble and Ray Young, and these people decided to form a history group that would meet monthly. Once the group were established, they decided to hold an exhibition in June 1992. This first one was held at the Old Chapel in Chapel Street. It attracted a lot of attention and because of its success the group decided to hold just one more exhibition the following year. However, this second one provoked so much interest that the exhibition then became an annual event.

In September 2000 the group published the first of the Syston Past series of books. This sold out completely and was reprinted in 2003. Syston Past books 2, 3, and 4 followed between 2006 and 2013. Many of the photos in these books came from Ray’s extensive collection. To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II in 2015 Felicity Austin started to collect memoirs about WW2 for an exhibition in the parish church. This led to a decision to write a book on the subject, and having acquired a writing partner in Leicester historian Cynthia Brown, the pair asked if Syston Local History group would sponsor publication of the proposed book. The two writers very soon decided that they needed Ray’s help and he willingly joined the team. He was always willing to share his knowledge and his store of photographs of his ‘home town’. Syston in World War II was published by the History Group in 2016 and sold out within a year.

Cynthia Brown remembers ‘It was a great pleasure working with Ray on Syston in World War II. His enthusiasm, good humour and the massive depth of his local knowledge made it a very rewarding experience’.

Ray was part of a different team when worked on the books on ‘Syston in the 20th Century’ which were published just after the Pandemic ended. Ray worked with Diana Smith and Felicity Austin on

Custom Conservatories & Windows

these two much larger books. I asked Diana what she remembered about working with Ray on these books, and Diana responded with enthusiasm saying that; ‘Ray’s knowledge was invaluable when we were writing the books. I found him easy to talk to and there was a sense of humour beneath the quiet serious surface’.

We leave the final words of this tribute to Tim Garner, Chair of the Syston Local History Group; ‘Ray was the mainstay of the History Group. His vision led to the first of the small Syston History books and the growth of the annual exhibition. He turned the early amateur efforts at display into a quality exhibition, and was able to provide a new display board most years. It is hard to see how the group can go on without him.’

Please note we are unable to give the time and date of Ray’s funeral at the time of going to press. The Stn will publish either in the next issue of the newspaper or via our Facebook page the details once known.

As your editor I would like to add that I have had the pleasure of knowing Ray for all the years I have owned the newspaper and if I ever got a request from anywhere in the world from someone wanting to find out about family from Syston he was my go to person. I am going to miss Ray and my thoughts are with Margaret and his family at this time.

Brooksby Gardening

Club

In March we move back to our evening venue in Queniborough Village Hall when our speaker will be Dr Andrew Ward from Norwell, his subject ‘Perennial Pleasures’, a welcome return.

Our January speaker was Caroline Aston, a much in demand commentator on radio and TV, who amused us with all things royal, and February gave us Karen Gimson, well known local garden designer with ‘Trees, underplanting and wildlife’. Three very diverse talks. It is encouraging to see signs of new life sprouting in our gardens, snowdrops, hellebores and crocus and various varieties of blossom.

Keep your eyes open for gardens to visit, maybe they will inspire you to change just one small thing in your own garden. Roll on some warm weather to enable us to get our hands back in the soil.

ADVERTISE IN YOUR LOCAL

Oven Magic

Run Better Together with Wreake Runners

Every year many of us start the year with new intentions and fitness goals. Then, as the darkness and cold weather persists, motivation tends to wane and old habits creep back in. Having a gym or running buddy is often the best way to stay on track. Imagine a whole group of people helping to keep you accountable! Have you ever considered the benefits of being in a running club? With annual membership from £25 and two or three group runs every week including fortnightly sessions at the track it’s great value. That’s less than 50p a week! The new membership year starts in March so it’s the perfect time to come along and give us a try. You’ll wonder why you never joined sooner!

Runs are based in Syston and sometimes further afield in the local areas and a few pub-runs in the summer months. Running clubs generally offer something for everyone, from speed and hill sessions, crosscountry, road and track sessions to competitive racing and fun socials. We have a members only facebook forum meaning you can usually find someone to run with outside of the weekly sessions too.

If you are comfortable running 5k but haven’t gone further than your local Parkrun, or if you’ve just completed a couch to 5k program then Wreake Runners 5k to 10K group is for you! Starting in March, the 8 week course with our run leaders will help you reach that next milestone. Contact us for more details run@wreakerunners.co.uk

Planning Application Submitted for the Closed Wilko’s Store

There is a lot of speculation about what is happening to the now closed Wilko store.

According to Charnwood Planning signage has been applied for on behalf of Iceland. The signs are for The Food Warehouse which is owned by Iceland. Plus they are keeping the Oxfam shop which faces Melton Road, they are then

Syston Wheelchair Basketball Player

Jade Capell is a 29 year old wheelchair basketball player.

She loves her sport and has played from a very young age. Unfortunately, her chair is getting too small and uncomfortable. As she is hoping to take part in the para-olympic games, it would be great to help her achieve her goal.

The cost of a new chair can cost £4,000 as they are bespoke and although she would love a new chair, neither her or her club can afford to fund one.

So she has sent up a Go Fund Me page via: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ raising-money-for-my-new-basketballchair to help raise the funds.

If you can help by making a donation towards a new chair for this very special athlete here in Syston. You can also donate through Second Time Around in the Town Square.

creating two more shop units facing Melton Road, which is why there is a ‘To Let’ sign on the building.

You can check out the full plans via https://www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/ planning_applications click specific application and then type in application number P/23/2217/2 click view related documents.

Hopefully, it won’t be to long before we have some new shops on our high street.