Birstall Post 352 November 2012

NOVEMBER 2012 No. 352

the Birstall postY O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

Apples pressed at harvest festivalFOR THE second yearrunning Birstall churchesbrought an apple pressinto the village for threedays of events organisedwith environmentalgroup, Greening Birstall.

“The poor apple harvest had usworried this year” said Rachel Par-kinson, minister at the MethodistChurch “but the generosity of thevillage meant we had plenty of fruitto press.”

On the Saturday afternoon, theCommunity Harvest Festival sawvisitors able to learn and take part

A STONEHILL student wasknocked down by a car asshe crossed Greengate Lane,near to Greengate MedicalCentre.

The eleven year old was on her wayhome from school when the accidentoccurred at 3.15pm on August 31.

She was knocked into the air andsuffered cuts and swelling to her nose,lips, chin, neck and left hip. She hadgrazing across her stomach cuts on herlegs and extensive soft tissue damage toher feet.

A passer by carried the girl intoGreengate Medical Centre, accompaniedby the driver of the car. Her parents thentook her to Leicester Royal Infirmarywhere she was x-rayed.

Carhitschild

Continued on page 4Continued on page 2

Pic: Stuart Prestonoperates the press& (inset) DaisyGray (3)samples thejuice

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NOV 2012THE BIRSTALL POST2

in a whole range of activi-ties involving recyclingand sustainability. Mean-while, in the church,Minimum Theatre fromMelton Mowbray wereperforming ‘A Sower wentforth to Sow’ presentingfive parables of Jesus incomic style.

Both primary schoolshosted the press for a dayeach, allowing all Year 5pupils a chance to makeand drink the juice. “Amillion out of ten” wasthe mark given by oneHighcliffe pupil to applejuice she had helped toproduce.

At Riverside, an inter-national dimension wasadded by visitors fromTrichy-Tanjore in SouthIndia who were visiting aspart of an exchange withthe Leicester Diocese. Thechildren were fascinatedto hear about hazards toschool children in India,which included beingeaten by tigers and leop-ards!

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CAROL SINGING, a fireworkdisplay and an appearance bySanta and his sleigh will allfeature at the Birstall Christ-mas lights switch-on event onFriday December 7.

Organised by Birstall Parish Coun-cil the free event will take place onthe Sibson Road car park at 6pm,with the fireworks starting on theSchool Lane playing field at 8.30pm.

There will be a Christmas Marketin the Village Hall and fairgroundrides on the car park where roastedchestnuts, hot potatoes, hot dogs andburgers will be available.

A free mince pie and mulled winewill be offered to every visitor.

Sue Coulson from Birstall ParishCouncil said: “We want to make thisyear’s switch on event bigger andbetter than ever with attractions foreveryone to enjoy.”

Continued from page 1

Pics: (top, ctr)Tea &Tariq Punter (2);(top,right)Roshni Field (2)scrubs an apple;(left) Morsbagsvolunteer JoyLambell; (below)Laura Gregory &Neil Parkinsonpreparingapples

Christmaslights

NOV 2012THE BIRSTALL POST 3

PLANS FOR shops, a nurseryand a community hall allfeature in plans for HallamFields drawn up by develop-ers Jelson this August.

Described as the site’s ‘Market Hub’,the plans also show a 60 bed carehome. The plans are as yet only indica-tive of what may be built, although theoriginal plans approved for HallamFields include shops, a communitybuilding and sports pitches, as well as aprimary school with linked recreationalfacilities.

Jelson’s is required to make landavailable for the ‘market hub’ and tomarket the site to potential businesses.This marketing is now taking place but

development will only begin if commer-cial interest is shown.

Charnwood’s Group Leader for Devel-opment Management, Steve Lewis-Rob-erts, said: “I am optimistic that privatebusinesses will be interested in the site.We have already received enquiries hereat the Borough Council from businessesabout opportunities at Hallam Fields.”

£350,000 is available now from Jel-son for the provision of a communitybuilding. This is likely to be owned andmanaged by Birstall Parish Council. Atthe parish Council’s October meetingChairman Pat Cleere said it was impor-tant that the council and the community

lam Fields remains unlikely to be builtby the County Council, who say thatchildren can be accommodated at anextended Riverside School.

The County Council, Charnwood anddevelopers Jelson have discussed provi-sion of a free school on the site withfunding split between the County, Jelson,the Government Department for Educa-tion and a suitable sponsor. But freeschools are initiated by parents, teachersand private businesses and there hasbeen no indication of any such groupingshowing an interest in the site.

Two full size football pitches, two

should consider now what potential usesthe building could have and invited resi-dents to contact the Parish Council withtheir ideas.

The planned primary school on Hal-

mini football pitches, acricket pitch and a pavil-

ion with two changing rooms areplanned for the site.

As buses cannot use unadopted roadsthere can be no provision of a bus serv-

ice at Hallam Fields. All the roads on theestate will be adopted at the same time,which will be some years in the future.

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Pic: the site for the market hub

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PLANS TO create a BMXtrack on Meadow Lane play-ing field have been stoppedbecause of health and safe-ty fears.

Birstall Parish Council intended toinstall the track next to the existing halfpipe using materials donated by SevernTrent and topsoil from the re-laying ofBirstall bowling green.

BMX track designer Ben Rafferty hadprepared plans for the £5000 project.

A tipper truck driven by a contractormoved the bowling green topsoil to thesite but when it drove onto the grassarea next to the half pipe it sunk intothe ground almost tipping over.

A recovery vehicle had to use a craneto remove it at a cost of £740. Thetopsoil, which would have been used tolandscape the track, was left at the sideof Meadow Lane.

Parish Council Chairman Pat Cleeresaid: “If we carry on with the projectthere is a risk it could be reported tothe Health and Safety Executive and thatis worrying as something might befound, and we don’t want to do anythingthat may risk the reputation of SevernTrent who have donated the base materi-als. It could get out of hand.”

Fears about the suitability of the sitehad been raised at the Parish Council’sOctober meeting. Cllr Julian Howe saidthe project should be stopped until ithad been properly costed and the sitesurveyed to assess its suitability. The siteis a former rubbish tip. He said: “I amin favour of providing a track but I amworried that this is a rush job.

Cllr Jim Garner questioned the deci-sion to allow the truck carrying the topsoil onto the site. He said that ParishCouncil projects were normally properlymanaged but this was a “DIY job that

has already cost us money and will costus more.”

The Clerk Steve Blackburn reportedthat the Council had taken advice onwhether the site could take the weight ofthe materials planned for the track. Withthe offer of free materials from SevernTrent the Council needed to react toopportunities like this when they arise.

Cllr Tony Fowler said that the offerfrom Severn Trent was a one-off andwould save the Council £14,000.

Cllr Ann Marshall said the BMX trackwas an opportunity for the Council toprovide something for young people inthe context of the recent closure of theswimming pool and was an opportunitythat should be taken up.

At that meeting, held on October 8,the Council voted by a majority decisionto proceed with the track. Followingconcerns raised about the Health andSafety Executive the decision to stop theproject was made a week later.

• Shortly before going to press, TheBirstall Post learned that the Environ-mental protection team at CharnwoodBorough Council, who own the MeadowLaner playing field, had assessed the siteand give approval to the BMX track. Thesite had been used for landfill wastebetween 1960-66, a private business haslawfully erected brick buildings on thesite, and it had previously been used asa BMX track.

• In August 2010 the Parish Councilcarried out a consultation event at theVillage Hall where young people gavetheir views on play facilities in the vil-lage. Plans for a £70,000 concrete skatepark on the School Lane playing fieldwere drawn up and the Council lookedfor grant funding to help with the costs.Because of the recession, funding hasbecome much harder to secure and theplans are currently on hold.

A FULL meeting of Birstall ParishCouncil was held on October 8.

PCSO Alex Bierne reported that hehad joined the Birstall Beat Team twoweeks ago. He said that burglaries in theCharnwood area had declined. As theBeat Team now has four members hesaid that the Beat Office at 10 SibsonRoad would be staffed more frequently.

A member of the public commentedon the damage to the surface of theMeadow Lane playing field caused by atruck getting stuck while delivering topsoil to the site for a BMX track. Thetopsoil had been left on the verge ofMeadow Lane right opposite a deepunfenced ditch, presenting a hazard.Another member of the public comment-ed that there was a BMX track on thesite three years ago that had been un-derused. He questioned why another wasneeded and said a new track wouldresult in a loss of open play area.

In response, it was reported that thesurface damage was repairable, thatsome elements of a BMX track that hadfallen into disrepair at Meadow Lane hadbeen taken away but the facilities thatremained were well used.

The council agreed to adopt the Gen-eral Power of Competence, a feature ofthe Localism Act 2011. This enablescouncils to get involved in any lawfulactivity that will improve the communi-ties they serve, such as running a shop,library or a small business.

The council agreed to allow youngerchildren to use the Youth Café for a trialperiod, following a recommendation byyouth workers.

Councillors discussed the provision ofa BMX track at Meadow Lane. The op-portunity for a track had arisen becauseSevern Trent had agreed to donate up to400 tonnes of base material for theproject, saving the council £14,000.

Some councillors expressed concernabout the suitability of the site, locatedon a capped refuse tip, and doing thework on water logged ground.

Comment was made that the Councilshould take advantage of opportunitieslike this when they arise and the Councilvoted by a majority decision to proceedwith the project.

As development at Hallam Fieldsprogresses, the uses of the plannedcommunity hall for the site need to beconsidered. Chairman Pat Cleere saidthat now was the time for potential usersto come forward with their ideas.

County Councillor Roger Wilson saidthe County’s view was that the cost ofproviding a new school at Hallam Fieldswas too expensive and that there wasrenewed interest in the possibility of aFree School, which he said he hopedwould happen.

Cllr Wilson reported that the use ofBirstall park and ride is increasing slow-ly. He said he thought it was likely thatLeicester City Council would recommendits proposed travellers’ sites.

The Council has agreed an increasein its sports pitch hire fees for footballand cricket. No changes were made tothe current charges for hiring the VillageHall, or to cemetery charges. An in-crease in allotment rental rates for 2014was agreed.

The Police are investigating theaccident, which happened in the sec-tion of Greengate Lane where the Coun-ty Council want to increase the speedlimit from 30 to 40mph. The councilsays the measure will enable them tomove the 30mph signs on GreengateLane, making them more visible.

The girl’s mother, Maria Middleton,said: “I have many concerns aboutroad safety on Greengate Lane, but tome the issue automatically involves theA6 junction too. Cars turning intoGreengate Lane often take a risk on thelights or actually go through when it isclearly red. They then have to take thecorner quickly or they will be hit byother traffic.

“I think the obvious answer is notto match the speed limit on GreengateLane to that on the A6 but to reducethe speed limit for the Birstall sectionof the A6 to 30mph. This would helpthe race track mentality that exists onthe A6, particularly at that junction.”

• The development of 3000 homesat Ashton Green in Beaumont Leys isexpected to increase the volume oftraffic on Greengate lane. The CountyCouncil plans to introduce a 20mphschool safety zone near Highcliffeschool in this financial year.

The county also plan traffic calmingmeasures near the GCR bridge, intro-ducing single lane traffic controlled bytraffic lights.

Bumpy ride for BMX track

Pic: the proposed site of the BMX track, next to the half pipe

Continued from page 1

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THE WIDE range of academicand vocational courses atLongsladeCollege wereshowcased atthe college’sopen eveningin October.

Longslade Op-tions Evening com-bined Key Stage 4and post 16 optionsinto one event forthe first time. “Withthe expectation thatyoung people willnow stay in educa-tion or training until17/18 years of age,we felt it was impor-tant parents and stu-dents could see thewide range of suc-cessful courses theycould take over threeand four years” said Longslade PrincipalLiz Hall.

Presentations were given to parentsand students, student guides were onhand to assist and some students talkedabout their own studies and the coursesthey had chosen.

Liz Hall said: “Students Bradley Rum-ball, Shannon Webb and Philippa Towlespoke brilliantly and we were so proudof them.”

A USB card providing details of theacademic and vocational courses availa-ble were given to everyone who attend-ed.

Any parents or students who were notable to attend the evening are invited tocontact the college to arrange a visit.Details of all the academic and vocation-al courses provided are also available onthe website.www.longslade.leics.sch.uk

THE ROTARY Club of the Soar Valleywill once again be accompanyingSanta on his tour of local villagesfrom December 7-23.

Santa will be touring Birstall onWed Dec 19 and Thurs Dec 20,Mountsorrel on Fri Dec 7 and MonDec 10 and Rothley on Mon Dec 10and Fri Dec 21.

He will also be mak-ing stops at Birstall’sCo-op supermarketon Dec 16 andBudgens, Mount-sorrel on Dec 22& 23.

A LOCAL Zumba teacher isoffering a charity ZumbaClass on Nov 27 at Longs-lade.

Lisa Cluer’s Zumbathon will cost£5, including a raffle ticket, with allproceeds going to the Great OrmondStreet Children’s Hospital (GOSH).

The class, in Longslade’s sportshall, runs from 6.15 – 7.30pm.

One of Lisa’s regular class goers,Jo, said: “You see Great OrmondStreet Hospital on the TV and you seechildren and caring doctors andnurses. What you can’t see is howGOSH makes children and parentsfeel once you step into the hospital,it’s a warm friendly environment foreveryone.

“I asked our son what is the bestthing about GOSH, he said ‘the hos-pital makes me feel safe, the nursesdon’t hurt and there are funnyclowns’. He has been known to saythat GOSH is his second home. Ihave seen where charity money isused by GOSH from the hospitalhotel for children and parents whoneed to stay over, fun activities andtoys or towards new life savingequipment. I know that every pennyraised by Lisa’s Charity Zumbathonwill be appreciated.”

Call Lisa on 07850 759170

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LongsladeCollege’sopenevening

Pics: (top) Maths teacher Yuri Largetalking to visitors and (left) studentsShannon Woolman & Jess Mundell

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A group of 12 riders set off from theCumbrian town of Workington, ridingthrough the Lake District and across thePennines to Sunderland, a total of 150miles that was completed in two days.

“It was the toughest challenge wehave attempted yet! We are all veryproud of the achievement and it wascertainly worth the pain of riding for twofull days, over some of the biggest hills

in the UK. We certainly wouldn’t havecompleted it without the fantastic spiritamongst us and the help of our supportteam” said Club Captain Kieran Warner.

The group were raising money forboth the Rugby Club and the RichardEnglegardt Trust in aid of a former play-er who suffered life changing injuries ina playing incident just over three years

ago while playing for the club.Birstall Rugby Club had previously

completed the 3 Peaks challenge whichinvolves climbing the three highest peaksin the UK in 24 hours, in addition to asponsored Beard grow in aid of theRichard Englegardt Trust. They are al-ready looking at challenges for a 2013fundraiser.

The club is celebrating a successfulstart to the new season with five winsout of five, scoring 31 tries, while thesecond team has lost only one of its

opening games.Changes at the club over

the summer saw the appoint-ment of a new chairman, clubcaptain and first team captain,the recruitment of some newyoung players and a re-organi-sation of the committee.

Birstall RFC train on Tues-day nights at 7pm at StonehillSchool and are always lookingfor new players or members ofall ages and abilities. Visit theclub’s website for more detailswww.birstallrfc.co.uk

A BIRSTALL podiatrist nowstocks an organic range offoot care products.

Footmedics UK is a specialist podiatryclinic at 80 Sibson Road. Podiatrist Ras-minder Palahey has been treating feetfor over 10 years, has treated athletes atthe London marathon and featured onBBC Radio and in Runners’ World maga-zine.

She said:“I have cho-sen to use theArbonneorganic rangeas it benefitsthe patients’long termhealth and wehave “had fantastic results improvingskin conditions at the practice.”

A percentage of the purchase price ofthe products goes to a charity that sup-ports young people. You can buy fromthe Sibson Road practice or online atwww.footmedics.co.uk

A COAST to coast charity cycle ride by members of BirstallRugby Club has raised £3500.

A MAN who punched a po-liceman in the face in Bir-stall and days later causedchaos in Asda, Thurmastonhas been given a 12 monthcommunity order.

Leicester Crown Court heard thatSean Richard Palmer (25), of ClaytonDrive, Thurmaston, began knockingon doors in Ashmead Crescent at7.30am on August 5. He was holdinga garden fork, appeared frightenedand claimed people were after him.

A Police officer spoke to Palmeron Wanlip Lane. He calmed down butthen punched the officer in the faceand fled. At a nearby house hebanged on a window, frightening amother and her children. CS spraywas used to detain him.

When interviewed by Police, Clay-ton, who has previous convictions forpossessing cocaine and cannabis,claimed he was being pursued by agroup with a hammer and pitchfork.

An August 16 Palmer, high onMCAT – mephedrone entered theAsda store in Thurmaston. He leaptonto counters, shouting and makingthreats, causing chaos among shop-pers.

At one point Clayton stood on aconveyor belt, smashed one of thebottles and kept hold of the jaggedneck while making threats.

The store was evacuated beforePolice carrying riot shields used aTaser to detain him.

Palmer admitted causing an affray,threatening behaviour, assaulting aPolice officer and having an offensiveweapon in a public place.

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HATS’ NEXT show is Rapunzel – youknow, the princess with the long hair,the very long hair.

Now, our story teller is the best in the land, and shehas a special story to tell this coming winter. We allknow how to get up to Rapunzel in her tower. We allshout “Rapunzel, Rapunzel let down your hair.” But inthis version of the classic fairy tale, will she be saved bythe handsome prince Hugo, or stay captured forever by

the evil witch and her son…Let us tell you the story in the usual pantomime

way. We are sure you will enjoy a couple of hoursof fun filled entertainment.

We always welcome new members, so, if youare interested in either acting on stage or workingbehind the scenes, come and see us any Wednes-day evening Highcliffe School or phone 01162128757

Performances of Rapunzel are at Highcliffe

School, Greengate Lane, Birstall on November Thursday 29,Friday 30 and Saturday December 1, 2012 at 7.15pm plus amatinee performance on Sat December 1 at 2.30pm. Doorsare open 30 mins before curtain up.

Tickets are £6 (£5 concs) and can be obtained in ad-vance by phoning the box office on 0116 2676049 or07757854719 or by email at [email protected] not pre-booked will be available on the door.Group discounts are available.

From HATS

Pic: will Rapunzel succumb to the evil sorceress or will she be rescued by the handsome prince? (l-r) Tracy Fuller, Kate Fuller andCaroline Gooding

A CHARITY disco at Birstall SocialClub in September has raised£1600.

Organised by Paula Clifford, the event raisedmoney for Wishes For Kids and Leicester Hospital’sgynaecological Oncology Unit.

Paula said: “It was afun filled night startingwith an hour of chil-dren’s entertainmentfollowed by a disco withR S Entertainment. Thedance floor was full,everyone danced thenight away and I’ve hadso much feedback

saying how

good itwas to have afamily event inBirstall.”

She added:“I would liketo thank eve-ryone whobought aticket and attended and all thosewho donated prizes.”Pic (top): Paula Clifford and Manny Sanghera receivingthe £100 donation from Birstall Social ClubPic: prize winners (l-r) Rachael Hudson, Tommy McCann,Louis McCann, Emily-Jane Dutton, Harley Dutton and SamLane

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Season’s Greetings from the White Horse


A TWOMETRE steel sculp-

ture that aims to repre-sent new hope and pastachievements has been unveiled out-side Longslade’s Palmer Tomkinson Centre.

spirit. The use of text, written or verbal,has been a significant feature of artists’

practices since the early 20th century.Words have been used in multiple waysas narrative, as instruction, as statement,as sculpture, in literary and poeticforms, as recorded speech and as thematter or object of the artwork itself. Iwanted to have something very visualand tactile but with combined languageand subtext to reflect the different as-pects of college life – something physicalbut also academic.”

She added: “We hope that the sculp-ture will express the values and ethos ofstudents, staff and the wider communityin a way that demonstrates our commit-ment to education and all that it encom-passes. As it weathers and changes withthe seasons, we hope it will be contem-plated and enjoyed for many years tocome.”

The cost of the sculpture was £7000and was included in the overall budgetof the £4.8million Palmer TomkinsonCentre.

It marks the finalstage of the Connect 2lottery funded projectthat has seen paths,bridges and access pointsimproved in the park.

The new section runsbeside the river startingfrom the Hope and An-chor pub on WanlipRoad heading north toCossington.

Commissioned to celebrate the Cen-tre’s first anniversary, the sculpture wasdesigned by Longslade’s Head of ArtCath Kinder and is covered in words cutout from the steel structure.

Cath said: “I worked with studentsacross the college to choose languagewhich inspired them. The words whichthey chose demonstrate the value whichthey place on education and community

A SECTION of new cyclepath that connects WatermeadCountry Park and Cossington has been completed.

STAFF AND students at Longslade College took part in Macmillan CancerWorld’s Biggest Coffee Morning in September.

They sold cakes and hot drinks and raised £101. Debby Chambers, Post 16Learning Mentor, said: “A huge thank you to all those who baked cakes, helped sellthem and all those who bought or made a donation.”Pic: Students Joe Dolby, Michael Adams & Emily Spence

Inspiring artwork Cycle path extended

College coffee morning

I. Wardle Maintenance Services (Birstall DIY)

Do you need any of the followingwork carrying out?If so, please phone or email meFENCING: Erection & RepairsGARDEN MAINTENANCE: Turf Laid, Mowed & Hedges Cut etcBUILDING REPAIRS/WORK: New Guttering & RepairsINTERIOR WORK: Curtain Rails Fitted, Mirrors Hung & PaintingLANDSCAPING: Gravel Drives & Paths LaidFLOORS: Concrete & Laminate Laid

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A TEENAGE BOY was punched in the face and robbed onWanlip Lane.

The incident happened at around9pm on Friday October 5, 2012 whenthe two victims aged 14 and 15 werewalking along Wanlip Lane.

They noticed a group of youths walkfrom Lambourne Road onto Wanlip Lanetowards them.

The group of youths, who are de-scribed as white and aged around 16 to17-years-old, approached them and oneof the group punched the 15-year-oldvictim in the face.

He was then kicked before the groupmade off with a Blackberry Curve mobilephone and black BMW bike back ontoLambourne Road.

Detective Constable Phil Lilley, theinvestigating officer, said: “Thankfullythe assaulted boy was not seriously in-jured but they are both obviously keen

Royal Bank of Scotland employeeshelped county council rangers carry outan annual task in the Reedbed NatureReserve’s wildflower meadow. Members ofstaff from the Leicester branch helpedrake all the cut vegetation into rows be-fore forking it onto a trailer to transportto a habitat pile. A Leicestershire Countycouncil spokesman said: “We are gratefulfor the support of the Royal Bank of Scot-land in helping us complete this importanttask in time for the autumn. It is good tosee local businesses rolling up theirsleeves and lending a hand at one of ourtop beauty spots.”

In 2011 staff at the Royal Bank of Scot-land gave more than 16,000 hours of theirtime through their one day volunteeringprogramme and helped over 470 winingcharities and projects as part of theircommunity force initiative.

Regular conservation volunteer days are

held at Watermead. To find out more visit:www.leics.gov.uk/watermead_volunteer orcall Chris Conway on 0116 3057937.

BANK WORKERS swapped their desks for pitchforks when theyspent a day grafting at Watermead Country Park.

for the return of their property.“We are trying to locate a group of

people who had been passing and cameto their aid. They may have informationabout the assault or who was responsi-ble so we would urge them to get ontouch.

“I would also like to talk to anyonewho saw what happened or knowssomeone who has recently acquired thisproperty.”

Anyone with any information aboutthe incident is asked to contact DC 1551Phil Lilley on 101, follow the instruc-tions to leave a message for a policeofficer and when prompted key in theofficer's identification number 1551.Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers,which is free and anonymous, on 0800555 111.

FRIENDS OF Belgrave Cemetery have released their new CDof the Belgrave Cemetery Records.

It has taken seven years of painstakingresearch by volunteer members Joy Mayand Bob Horner to complete.

At a small quiet presentation duringthe Leicester and Rutland Family HistoryDay at Parklands Leisure Centre, Oadby,both Joy and Bob were presented withflowers and gifts from the appreciativegroup by John Dixey, Deputy Chairman ofthe Friends, watched by other membersof the group and also members of the

public who were not only waiting forhelp with their cemetery research butalso keen to purchase the new CD.

There are 15,000 entries on the CD,which costs £9.99. Anyone wishing topurchase a CD can do so via the websitewww.friendsofbelgravecemetery.org.uk orfrom group members who are at thecemetery most Sunday mornings.

Boy punched andphone stolen

Helping hand in park

Cemetery records

Pic: John Dixie, Joy May & Bob Horner

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A big thank you to all those whohelped at and supported our FundraisingCoffee Shop at Birstall Methodist Churchon Saturday September 29. We raised agrand total of £212 for LOROS.

Thank you very much.Gillian Bowler and David Green

Birstall Quilters would like to thankeveryone who supported our CoffeeMorning on October 13. You helped us

Recently it seems that dog ownersthat walk their dogs around the FarPastures Rd stretch and around the pondarea have lost all respect for the ownersof properties and the people that have touse the surrounding roads and paths.

Dogs are pooing on people’s frontgardens and along the path that runsalong Far Pastures Rd, around the pondand even in the middle of the road.Once I even saw the owner watching hispoodle like dog pooing right in the mid-dle of the road and do nothing about it.Is it possible to get some signs put upabout dog owners responsibilities andthe fines that they could face if they donot clean up after their dogs?

Concerned Resident

YOUR SAY...

The Birstall Post welcomes your viewsand opinions on any subject. Letters,which must include your name andaddress, (though not necessarily forpublication) can be posted to: The Bir-stall Post, Longslade College, WanlipLane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH, orhanded in at Birstall library or email:[email protected]

Elizabeth Gow and family would liketo thank all their friends and neighboursfor the kind wishes and beautiful cardssent on the death of Stuart a very dearhusband and father. We very much ap-preciate your care and support.

Elizabeth Gow

raise £660.10 for LOROS.The following people were lucky in

the raffle: C Hill (won the quilt), C Face,K Allen, Lata, S Noble, P Gregory, PPotter and G Bowler

Christine Hewson, Secretary

I have noticed that a few shops stillsell Glue Traps for catching vermin.

I would like to warn people againstpurchasing them as they are cruel andinhumane not only for the intendedvictims, but they can also trap otherspecies such as birds and pets whounwittingly stand on them. They die slowlingering deaths unable to move andunable to get to any food or water.

If you wish to get rid of pests pleaseuse humane ways or failing that, seekadvice from an expert as a last resort.

Hopefully shopkeepers will read thisand dispose of them sensibly and notifytheir suppliers of the dangers.

Mrs H Johnson

The KGB (Knitting Guerillas of Bir-stall) wish to rally as many secret agentsas possible for their next woolly mission.

Special agents Troutmask and Niddyn-oddy are after knitted/crocheted/wovenwoolly squares of any size over 20cms x20cms - the bigger the better.

Also baubles golf ball size or biggerThis is an important part of the mis-

sion, the colour must be predominantlypurple with some hints of silver hereand there.

If you would like to help, and weadvise you do if you want to see manysmiles on the faces of the good folk ofBirstall, then get cracking. Go on, youknow you want to and, guess what craft-ing, and making folk smile, is reallygood for your wellbeing!

Please submit your woolly delights toBirstall Methodist Church FAO: KGB viaDavid Bark or contact us via our websiteat http://kgb-123.blogspot.com

The KGB

I want to reassure all my customersthat the business, J Michael Meat Purvey-ors, is not closing and I look forward totrading through the Christmas periodand into the New Year. It is my wish toretire after 50 years in this business,hopefully in 2013, and I hope it willcontinue under new ownership thuscontinuing 76 years trading as a familybutchers. The smiling faces of Paul,Kathy, Sally and Trevor will still be seenby all. Please continue to support us.

Happy Christmas.David Michael

M.D. J Michael Ltd.

At the beginning of the new schoolterm our daughter was knocked downby a car, just outside Greengate surgery,whilst on her way home from school. A“kind man” (in our daughter’s words)carried her into the surgery, but leftwithout giving his name. We would justlike to thank him very much for stop-ping to help and getting medical helpfor her quickly. We would like to thankhim personally if he’s willing to contactus through the Birstall Post.

We would also like to thank all ourdaughter’s lovely friends who were soconcerned about her and have sent theirgood wishes as well as flowers andcards. Last, but not least, our thanks tothe Longslade students who stopped tohelp at the scene, comforting the young-er children and making sure they weresafe, as well as contacting us: they defi-nitely deserve the praise they have re-ceived.

Maria & Chris Middleton

I walk to school every day alongGreengate Lane and see drivers going waytoo fast. I read in the Post that the CountyCouncil would like to increase the speedlimit along part of it. They say this is anattempt to get drivers to slow down fur-ther along the road but to me it lookslike rewarding those bad drivers who arecurrently speeding when they come intoGreengate Lane. When people are tryingto encourage their children to do moreexercise and walk to school it seemswrong to tell drivers to go faster on acrossing that is already dangerous. Surelyit would make more sense to lower thespeed limit around the whole junction,including the A6? It might add a few sec-onds to drivers’ journeys but it could savelives.

Mae Pugsley Birch

St James the Great, Church Hill,Birstall

All Souls Serviceon Sunday November 4 at 3pmWe will be holding a short serviceofHymns/Readings/Prayers and Re-flection for those who have lost aloved one recently or in the pastOpen to everyone in the parishYou will be very welcomeRefreshments after the service

Friends of Bishop Ellispresent

Christmas Fair 2012Sat December 1, from 2-4.30pmat Bishop Ellis School,ThurmastonWe need your helpCan you bake a cake?Run a stall?Donate a prize?Contact us [email protected] & join in the festive funVictorian swing boats, children’scarousel, craft & gift stalls, San-ta’s Grotto, tombola, raffle, Irishcoffees, festive hot food, Christ-mas carols, Marwood Brass Band &much much more

Rothley Church

Christmas Marketon Saturday December 1, from3-5.30pmOld School Rooms, School Street &Rothley ChurchA really welcoming event for allthe communityChristmas tree competitionVarious stalls, gifts, toys andgames, cakes etc, raffleSchool Choir & Handbell RingersRefreshments, mince pies, hotdogs etcDonations to Rainbows & RothleyChurchAdmission free

Art Exhibition & CraftFairIndividual pieces of art work andhand made gifts & cardsat Rothley Centre,Saturday December 1, from 10amto 4pmFree entry – tea & homemadecakes available

Charnwood Branch of Cancer Re-search UK

Christmas Crackerson Saturday December 1 at7.30pmin Rothley CentreJoin us for an evening of light en-tertainment including music fromthe ‘rat pack’ by JonathanTickets £10 inc light supper & awelcoming drink of mulled wineContact number for tickets or fur-ther information

Noticeboardall details printed free

Thanks

Thanks

Thanks

Glue traps

Wool

Not closing

Thanks

Dog owners

Speeding

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Charnwood ConservativeAssociation

Christmas FairSaturday December 8at Rothley Centre, 10am – 12noonAdmission 50pRt Hon Stephen Dorrell will beattendingRaffle, tombola, books, producestalls, games, Santa’s grotto,bric-a-brac etc• • •Phase Arts Theatre SchoolA special performance celebrating

the Magic of DisneySunday December 2 at 6pmThe Palmer-Tomkinson Theatre,Longslade College, BirstallTickets £5 adult; £4 children (dis-counts available for children/yp’sgroups)Box Office: Tel/Text07974333890E: [email protected] you would like to know moreabout our group or register for afree trial class, please contact usas above or visitwww.phasearts.co.uk

Belgrave Ladies Bowling ClubThurcaston Road, next to RugbyClub

Autumn FayreSaturday November 17, from10am to 12noonHomemade cakes, garden pro-duce, books, jigsaws, nearly newclothes (inc bowling gear), tom-bola, raffle, and moreTea/CoffeeEntrance 25pAll welcome

Film PresentationsFrom Thurcaston & Cropston Par-ish Council‘War Horse’ Friday November 9(146 mins)Michael Morpurgo’s moving storyhas been played on stage for overfour years being set amid thebackdrop of the First World War.Steven Spielberg’s film centres onthe close connection between ayoung boy and his horse, Joey.Tom Middleton plays a debonaircavalry officer who buys Joey toride him into battle. There ishope, courage and perseverancesurrounding this one horse.‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’Friday December 14 (124 mins)There are tears and laughter inthis hilarious but touching dramaabout growing old disgracefully.Evelyn, played by Judi Dench, de-termines to start a new life inJaipur and meets other retireeswho are also aiming for this luxu-rious retirement home but disap-pointment awaits. The teemingstreets of Rajistan burst with col-our and vitality, a fitting settingfor our film, amid our prepara-tions for Christmas.Thurcaston & Cropston ParishCouncil will be showing these

films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall.Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost£4.50 and concessions are £4.The price includes refreshmentsand a lucky prize draw.Advance tickets can be purchasedvia the parish office, 01162367626 or at the door.

Book SaleGrab a bargain at Birstall librarySat Nov 3 to Sat Nov 10The library is selling off olderstock to make way for new, bothadult and children’s stock will beavailable at bargain pricesDrop in during normal libraryopening hours and see if there isanything for you

Birstall Royal BritishLegionNov 3: Max (M/V)Nov 10: Slaters (M/Duo)Nov 17: Cherry Pink (F/V)Nov 24: Trev Budgie Walton (M/V)Dancing every Sat night with liveentertainmentBingo Free beer raffle and notforgetting Open the BoxEvery Tues night Bingo starting at9.15pmQuiz nights Sunday Nov 11 & 25,starting at 9pmAcoustic night Sunday Nov 18Rock & Roll nights Wednesday Nov7 & 21Food available every Saturday,12-2pmWakes catered for

Ibstock Brick BrassBandOnce again your favourite brassband is back to entertain youNov 4 at St James Church at

7.30pmEntrance £5, pay on the doorCome along for a good night’sentertainment with all your fa-vourite tunes

Birstall Methodist Women’s Group

Singing for funwith Anne HughesMethodist Church at 7.30pm onFriday November 7Free admissionDonations welcome towards ourcharity Motor Neurone DiseaseAssociation Leics and RutlandBranchContact Margaret on 01162671181 for more information• • •CLASH Community Leicestershire

Arthritis Self HelpMonthly meeting at Palmer Tom-kinson CentreWed November 14, 7-9pmGetting to know yourdrugs/medication, Mr Shezad Ali-mahomed, pharmacistCLASH E-Learning for Beginners atPalmer Tomkinson CentreThursday November 1, 8, 15, 22 &29 from 3.30-4.30pmWe look forward to seeing you• • •Leicester Symphony Orchestra90th Concert Season

a Gala Eveningwith Dame Evelyn GlennieSaturday November 107.30pm at De Montfort HallConductor: John AndrewsPercussion: Dame Evelyn GlennieFree pre-concert talk with DameEvelyn Glennie at 6.30pmFull price £12/£15/£18 Childrenage 17 and under £5Concessions availableTickets available from De Montfort

Hall Box Office 0116 233 3111Leicester Symphony OrchestraTicket Secretary: Nigel Moore,07971 991622E: [email protected], Woodshop Lane,Swarkestone, Derby DE73 7JAPlease note that there are nobooking fees for buying ticketsdirect from the LSO there will be£3 transaction charge if boughtfrom DMH box office via phone, online or in person)www.leicestersymphonyorchestra.co.uk

Cheeky CherubsParent & toddler groupevery Monday at Birstall MethodistWanlip Lanefrom 10am to 12noon0-4 yr olds, teas & coffees forparents, snacks & juice for kids,please feel free to just comealong, no weekly commitment,only £2 + 50p for additional chil-dren.Also on Monday Oct 29, 9.30am -12noon, Louise Kelham will behere, brilliant photos, great play-group prices, again no commit-ment but make fantastic Christmaspresents.Hope to see you thereAny questions please call Paula on07934551563

Save the ChildrenPlease come to the

Coffee Morningat the Methodist Coffee Shop,Wanlip Laneon Sunday Nov 3, from 10am to12noonVarious stalls

200 Club St James Day Centre1st Mrs Muriel Collis

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Full Central HeatingBoiler Swaps & Upgrades

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Tel: 0116 2209311Mob: 0796 7695631


2nd Mrs Marjorie Cannon3rd Miss Margaret Willows4th Mrs Thelma Lane

St James ChurchSunday SchoolAn exciting programme of biblestories, music, arts, crafts, dramaand lots moreevery Sunday (except the 1st ofthe month)All ages of children and youngpeople welcomeSundays 10-11amJust turn up or telephone RoseParrott 07811662235 or go onwww.Birstall.org

Birstall & DistrictLocal History SocietyThe next meeting will be held onThursday November 8 at 7.30pmin the Birstall Village Hall, BirstallRoad, BirstallThe talk will be‘Canal Boat People’Speaker Wendy FreerVisitors are very welcome

Highcliffe AmateurTheatrical Societypresents

RapunzelA pantomime by Philippa Smith atHighcliffe School, Greengate Lane,BirstallThursday & Friday Nov 29 & 30 &Saturday Dec 1 at 7.15pm,also on Saturday Dec 1 at 2.30pmTickets are £6 (£5 concs) andmay be obtained from the boxofficeTel: 2676049 or 07757854719 orby email [email protected]

Beetle Drive and Patient Informa-tion DayThe Leicester Stoma Care Nursesinvite you to a combined BeetleDrive and Patient Information DayOpen to anyone who has a stoma(guest included)Thursday Nov 29, 10.30 start –12.30 approxRefreshments availableRegency Hotel, 360 London RoadStoneygate LE2 2PLRing 0116 2585184 to book aplace on this unique social event(places limited)

Birstall Birdwatching Clubpresents

75 years at RectoryFarmby Phil JohnsonRothley is losing its farmland atan alarming rate, with Birstall al-ready decimated, so it is easy tothink that no-one cares aboutfarms and the part they play inthe preservation of our wildlife.Rectory Farm, on the edge of Eye-brook Reservoir, is proof of a suc-cessful farm and habitat creationfor all kinds of wildlife. With all ofthis, the birds also benefit andPhil will tell us how his workingfarm has been managed to includehedgehogs and bees. Peanuts andseed on sale.Tuesday November 13

Christmas DIY withChristmas Cheerby Our MembersEveryone welcome to this informalmeeting when members bringtheir photographic or conversa-tional talents which are intermin-gled with cheese straws, mincepies and other surprises broughtalong by our members and visi-

tors. Just come and see what ourmembers have been doing thispast year in their pursuit of wild-life.Tuesday December 11Both evenings at 7.30pmat The Rothley Centre, Mountsor-rel Lane, RothleyVisitors welcome £2Contact Ken Goodrich 01162674813

St Theresa’s

Christmas BazaarSat December 1511am till 3pmin St Theresa’s Church HallFront StreetStalls to include cake stall, bottletombola, raffle, preserves & manymore to delight youTea, coffee & hot soup will beavailableAll proceeds to St Theresa’sChurch funds

Christmas Charity

Family Discoat Birstall Social ClubDecember 14from 7.30-11.30pmIn aid ofLeicestershire Parents DiabetesGroup, Carl Gunns’ Boxing GymIn loving memory of Chris Norman(1990-2012)Entertainment by Jack in the BoxCostume Hire & DiscoThis is a ticket only eventFor tickets and information pleasecontact Paula on 07934 5541563£1 child, £5 adult

The Latimer Players areperforming

‘Mother Goose’a traditional family pantomime,suitable for all agesFollow Mother Goose, her familyand village friends and see howshe turns from, rags to riches withthe help of Candy, the goose wholays golden eggs. You are invitedto join in with the boos and hissesand all the songsNovember 22,23 & 24 at 7.30pmand Saturday matinee at 2.30pmin the Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane,Thurcaston LE7 7JATickets available from Anna Lacey,121 Leicester Road, ThurcastonLE7 7JLAll seats £6.50 each

ZumbathonCharity Class & Raffle PrizesTuesday Nov 27, from 6.15-7.30pm£5 Class Entry & Raffle TicketLongslade College Sports Hall,Wanlip LaneAll proceeds donated to Great Or-mond Street Children’s HospitalIf you are a local business andwould like to donate a raffle prizefor such a great charity please callLisa on 07850 759170Spread the word, the more peoplethe more money we raise!

Look out for Santa!Weather permitting the WreakeValley Rotary Club Santa Sleighwill be visiting Birstall on the fol-lowing evenings in December:Wed Dec 19: Fielding Rd/WalnutAve side of the A6Thurs Dec 20: Wanlip Lane, Gwen-dolen Ave, Dalby Ave area andsurrounding roadsSo, look out for Santa and comeout to say hello! All monies col-lected go to local charities. Forfurther details please seewww.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk

Netmumsmeets up at Birstall MethodistChurch, Wanlip Lane, BirstallLow key meet ups to providefriendship and chat for parents &carersChildren welcome10am-12noon, last Tues eachmonth except Aug & DecNext date November 27Hope to see you there! Feel freeto get in touch in advanceJacqui & [email protected]

Oh Whistle…Supernatural tales by M R James,master of the English ghost storyThe Nunkie Theatre CompanySunday Nov 25 at 7pmHumphrey Perkins CommunityCentre, Cotes Road, Barrow£8, £7 (con)Box Office: [email protected]

Alice in WonderlandBarrow Youth TheatreA junior musicalFriday Nov 16: 7.30pmSaturday Nov 17: 2pm & 7.30pmHumphrey Perkins CommunityCentre, Cotes Road, Barrow£7 & £5 (concess)A fresh & colourful productionwith a talented young castBox Office: [email protected]

Wanlip Church and CommunityCentre,

Christmas FairTo be held at the Hall on SaturdayDecember 1 between 10am and12.30pmEntrance freeStalls include plants, bottle tom-bola, cakes, books, bric-a-brac,raffle and othersRefreshments availableProceeds in aid of continued up-grading of the Hall’s facilities

Knit2gether GroupBirstallLast Wed of every month at theWhite Horse Pub in Birstall, from7.30pmNext meeting Wed Nov 28Last month we participated inWellbeing Wednesday, a celebra-tion of how taking part in arts and


cultural activities can contributeto your wellbeing.All are welcome to join in our so-cial knitting and crochet group.Meet like minded friends andlearn about participating in publicart projects.There’s no charge to join and wedon’t provide materials or equip-ment as the group is currentlyunfunded – we welcome dona-tions of wool or sponsorship!For more info contact Lisa Pidg-eon at www.litlebirdsos.co.uk orcall/text 07760232059. For moreinfo on Wellbeing Wednesday goto www.leicestershire-wellbeing.co.uk

Birstall

Christmas LightsSwitch on and Christmas MarketFriday December 7, 6pmSibson Road car parkCarol singing, free mince pie andmulled wine, fairground ridesFireworks display 8.30pmSchool Lane playing field

Birstall Methodist ChurchWanlip Lane, BirstallFriday Nov 23, 10am-7pmSaturday Nov 24, 10am-2pm

Christmas Festival‘Jubilation’Church decoratedAdmission £1 (accompanied chil-dren free)Friday, 10am-7pmOutdoor Christmas MarketHome-made cakes, pies, biscuits,preservesChristmas gifts, novelties & deco-rationsHot dogs, punch, pancakes, soupGames, tombola, raffleSaturday, 10am to 2pmTable Top SaleRefreshments served throughoutthe eventLight lunches Fri/Sat, 12noon-1.30pm

Syston Christmas

Gift Fairat Syston Methodist Church HallNov 17, 1.30-5pm50p entry (u12 free)over 30 stalls of unique giftskids’ face paintingplus coffee shop with homemadecakes on saleCome along and get stocked upfor ChristmasWin a Christmas hamper in theraffle

Rothley Christmas

Pamper EveningNov 23, 7-9.30pmat The Rothley Centre, Rothleyover 40 stalls, of unique gifts andpamperingTickets £4 in advance, £5 on thedoor inc complementary drinkChance to win a Christmas Hamperin the raffleTickets: 07951656941 or07875979058

Birstall Royal British Legion

RemembranceSundayParade and ServiceSunday Nov 11, 10amParade begins on Front Street,then Wanlip Lane, Birstall Road,Church Hill, followed by service atSt James, then wreath laying atthe War Memorial.Formation in the parade includeThe Royal British Legion BirstallBranch and Women’s Section, theRAFA, Air Training Corps, BoyScouts, Girl Guides, St John’s Am-bulance Brigade, Boys Brigadeand Girls Brigade

Birstall St James Church SocialGroupInvite you to a

Quiz Afternoonand Cream Teaon Sunday Nov 25 at 2.30pmBirstall Village Hall, School LaneCost £3

Choice UnlimitedInformation, ideas, innovation,services, products, education &employment for young people,parents, carers and professionalsChoice Unlimited welcomes allyoung people, their parents, car-ers, teachers as well as serviceprovidersWe offer a special welcome to dis-abled young people and youngpeople with additional needswhich many of the exhibitors willcater forLeicester Tigers Stadium, Ayle-stone Rd, Leicester LE2 7TRWednesday Nov 2110am to 6pmFree entry – please register your

interestThere will be a huge choice of ex-hibitors who will be covering• accommodation• education & training• employment• health & wellbeing• lifestyle & leisure• support & advice• transport & motability• volunteeringTo register your interest and tofind out more tel: 0116 2859440; SMS:07910 864 594;Email:[email protected]; Web-site: www.lcil.org.uk;Twitter:@ChoiceUnLtdVisit us on Facebook

REDHILL REVOLVERS hosted the Riley Classic Cup at theLeicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre.

33 people shot from a range of 6m and 10m using a 1950’s Webley Junior and a1960’s Webley Tempest.

For club information visit www.redhillrevolvers.co.ukPic: (l-r) David Bourgault (Birstall) 88 points the winner Bernard Harris(Leicester) 106 points and in 3rd place Steve Hancock (Chesterfield) 83 points

Pistol target shoot

The December issue ofTHE BIRSTALL POST

will be published on Dec 1.The copy deadline is Nov 16.

Fitted kitchens, bedrooms,bathrooms & flatpackTiling (walls & floor)Laminate floors laidInternal & external doors hungFencing & gatesHome & gardenfurniture madeto orderDecorating

Rak TailorHome Improvements

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Professional oven cleaning• 100% biodegradable materials • Local, friendly service

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Win a TV SimulatorA TV Simulator is an ideal way of

fooling potential burglars when you areaway from home. This little box, whenswitched on, simulates the flickeringglow of a television. In most situationsthis will discourage burglars, who willthink twice before breaking into a housewhich is occupied.

TV Simulators can be ordered fromBirstall Neighbourhood Watch SaturdayAdvice Shops at a cost of £20.

However, here is your opportunity towin one for your home. Just answer thefour simple questions about Birstall andWanlip Neighbourhood Watch:

1. How often are the Saturday AdviceShops held?

2. What is the telephone helplinenumber for the watch?

3. When was the first watch schemein Birstall started?

4. In what year was the Birstall andWanlip Neighbourhood Watch named theBest Scheme in the Country

Write your four answers on a postcard, together with your name, addressand telephone number and either postin the NHW post box in the Parish Coun-cil Office or drop it in at the next Satur-day Advice Shop on November 17, 2012.Alternatively you can email your answersand your contact details [email protected]

Closing Date for the competition isMonday December 10, 2012. The win-ner will be the first correct entry drawnat the Saturday Advice Shop on Decem-ber 15. The winner will be notified afterthis date. Good luck!

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

the team.The Roads Policing Unit monitored

Greengate Lane for HGVs on October3 between 1125 and 1340. ThreeHGVs were seen and letters sent tothe operating companies. Between1535 and 1700 no HGVs were seen.

On October 4 an HGV was stoppedon Greengate Lane, driven by a dis-qualified driver. He was arrested andthe vehicle seized.

From PC 2139 Richard Carru-thers, PCSO 6611 Mark Butler,PC 1276 Keith James and PCSO6595 Alex Bierne

SystonThe Peace Walk was organised to

raise awareness about the increasing useof armed unmanned military aircraft, ordrones, in targeted killings in countriessuch as Pakistan.

NHW news& crime report

Crime Report: Sep 10 – Oct 8, 2012Assaults 3, harassment 1, burglary

1, burglary non-dwelling 3, damage 4,damage to motor vehicle 2, drugs 4,fraud 1, public order 3, robbery 2,theft 6, theft from motor vehicle 4,theft of motor vehicle 3, theft stores3.

Burglaries are significantly lowerthan the last few months. The beatteam welcomes PCSO Alex Bierne to

Organised by the Drone CampaignNetwork the walkers stopped at BirstallMethodist coffee shop on their 90 milewalk from the West Midlands to Lincoln.

The walkers were greeted by a localsinging group Sing Your Heart Out! from

CAMPAIGNERS AGAINST drone strikes stopped off in Birstallas part of a week long Peace Walk.

The General Power of Competenceis part of the Localism Act 2011.

It frees the council to engage in anylawful activity to promote or improvethe economic, social or environmentalwellbeing of any part of their area.

The Department for Communitiesand Local Government says: “Localauthorities’ power and responsibilitiesare defined by legislation. In simpleterms, they can only do what the lawsays they can.

“Sometimes councils are wary ofdoing something new – even if theythink it might be a good idea – be-cause they are not sure whether theyare allowed to in law, and are con-cerned about the possibility of beingchallenged in the courts.

“The Government [with the Local-

A NEW law that gives local authorities greater freedomto engage in community activities has been adopted byBirstall Parish Council.

ism Act 2011] has turned this as-sumption upside down. Instead ofbeing able to act only where the lawsays they can, local authorities will befreed to do anything, provided they donot break other laws.

“It gives them freedom to do crea-tive, innovative things to meet localpeople’s needs.”

The Act recognises that councilsmay begin to engage in activities thatput tax payers’ money at risk.

Examples of activities that councilsmight engage in include running postoffices, pubs or shops, providingbroadband or starting Credit Unions.

Critics of the scheme say it maygive councils an unfair trading advan-tage over their private sector competi-tors.

Drone protestors’ walk

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SOME OF THE artwork created by members of Birstall & District ArtSociety and displayed at their annual exhibition in the Village Hall.

Pic: Society members Margaret Pritchard,Fred Parrott and Sue Phipps


In September Charnwood BoroughCouncil’s cabinet agreed to include thesite in its Local Plan Core Strategy. Thiswill set out the areas for development inthe Borough that are required to meetGovernment targets for housing andemployment. The detailed plan will notbe ready until March 2013 when it willbe considered by the cabinet.

The development will occupy theformer Bentleys Roses site.

Parish Council Chairman Pat Cleeresaid: “I am sorry that if this goes aheadwe will be losing more of our country-side. I would like to know what resi-dents think about it. If it does happenwe want to make sure we can get asmuch out of it for Birstall from the de-velopers as we can.”

Charnwood’s report into the propos-als, prepared by the Strategic Director ofHousing, Planning and Regeneration CllrMatthew Blain, states that:

• the site will be highly attractive toinvestors due to direct access to thestrategic road network

• it provides an opportunity to locatenew jobs with new homes

• the A46 is likely to be a majorbarrier to integration with Birstall [thesite is in the Parish of Wanlip]

• the development will have a “mod-erate” impact on the settlement separa-tion of Birstall, Rothley and Wanlip thatcan be “mitigated through master plan-ning”.

• potential for some impact on thewider road network which may be diffi-cult to mitigate.

FUNDRAISING BY St Margaret’s BowlsClub has raised £1116 for a chil-dren’s hospice.

Rainbows was the charity chosen by2012 President Roz Harris who raised£200 herself with a sponsored swim.Pic: Sheila Moore, Julie from Rain-bows and Roz Harris

PLANS TO build 2000 homes and an employment site onland north of Birstall have moved a step closer.

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The landowners are the Palmer-Tom-kinson Trust and the Antony Cooperfamily. They have already drawn upplans for a “high quality settlement”called the Broadnook Garden Suburb.They say they are ready to start buildingin the first quarter of 2014 if approval isgiven.

A GROUP of volunteerswho make re-usable clothbags using donated fabricare appealing for newmembers.

The Charnwood group of Mors-bags meet at Greenacres, next to theGCR Leicester North Station on TheSidings

The bags are given away free atlocal events, to encourage the use ofre-usable bags instead of plastic car-rier bags.

Morsbags.com is a global not-for-profit organisation and in Leicester-shire alone more than 25,000 bagshave been made and given away.

The Morsbags Charnwood Pod waslaunched on September 19 and thenext meeting will be on November 28from 12.30pm onwards.

Spokeswoman Lisa Pidgeon said:“We need volunteers to help with thisworthwhile initiative. It is not justsewing, we need helpers to cut out,seam press, sew, and help give awaythe morsbags.

“We also have a fabric drop offbox at the Greenacres Centre if youhave any unwanted fabric remnantsor curtains – sorry, no clothes.”

If you would like to become avolunteer for Morsbags CharnwoodPod call Lisa on 07760 232059 or viaFacebook : Morsbags Charnwood Pod

THE USE of Birstall park andride is increasing slowly butneeds to grow further if theservice is to break even.

In June, July and August 248 peoplea day used the service, which equates to6500 journeys a month. In its first yearof operation there were 5760 journeys amonth. 28,050 a month are needed forthe service, which is combined with theEnderby park and ride, to break even,

The £5.2million, 1000 space facility,opened in July 2011. The operatingcosts for 2012/13 are estimated at£486,000.

The service is run jointly by the Cityand County Councils. It runs Monday toSaturday, 7am to 7pm every 15 minutes.Day tickets are £3, a six month ticket is£250 and a 12 month ticket is £470.

Passengers with an older person’spass travel free after 9.30am

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November highlightsNovember often seems one of the

gloomiest months and autumn seems tohave arrived earlier than ever this year,but there are plenty of reasons to getout this month and enjoy the companyof others.

To start the month there is a Save theChildren coffee morning at the MethodistChurch coffee shop from 10am to 2pmon Saturday November 4. Why not sup-port a very deserving cause and meetsome friends? Then how about anevening with the Ibstock Brass Band atSt. James on Sunday 4th at 7.30pm, toblow away the blues?

In altogether more serious mood, onSunday the 4th we remember loved oneswho have died, at the simple, short AllSouls service in the afternoon at 3pm.

On the following Sunday the 11th, theannual British Legion Remembrance Dayservice will begin at St. James at10.30am, when the fallen of two worldwars (and many battles since then) willbe commemorated with solemnity andpride.To start you thinking

The speakers at the two women’sgroups at St. James have both choseninteresting and intriguing topics thismonth. The Monday Group, whichmeets in the Day Centre at the VillageHall on November 12 at 7.30pm, willbe welcoming Sue Ablett to talk about“Looking for tigers in India” - visitorsare welcome to the meeting.

The Mothers’ Union also welcomesvisitors on Friday November 23 in StJames Community area at 7.45pm, tohear Rev. Julie Ann Heath, with a talkentitled “Once upon a time…unlocktheology through storytelling and a lip-stick”!

The Churches’ annual Quiz afternoonwith cream tea has become has becomevery popular. This year it will be held at2.30pm on Sunday afternoon November25 in the Village Hall.Christmas on the horizon

Some events in early December toput in your diary:

On Saturday December 1 the annualWanlip Christmas Fair will be held from10am to 12.30pm in Wanlip Church Halland Community Centre, with a variety ofstalls, and refreshments available.

On Sunday December 2 the ChurchesTogether Advent service will be held atthe Methodist church at 6pm

For a whole week, starting after themorning service on Dec 2, St Jameschurch will be transformed once againinto a road near Jerusalem for a “Jour-ney to Bethlehem”. Children from pri-mary schools in the area will be visitingthe church through the week to takepart in an inter-active adventure, whichtakes them on a journey to meet someof the travellers, who were on their wayto Bethlehem in the days before Jesuswas born. To judge by the children’scomments when this event last tookplace two years ago, they will find this adifferent and exciting experience.

From Beryl McHugh, ParishChurch

Christmas FestivalThe 2012 Christmas Festival takes

place on Friday November 23 and Satur-day 24. It follows a similar pattern toprevious years, but is open for longerthis year.

In this Jubilee year and the OlympicGames it takes up a theme of ‘Jubila-tion’. Opening at 10am on both days,there will be much to see and manystalls including Home-made cakes, pies,biscuits, preserves, Christmas gifts, nov-elties & decorations hot dogs, punch,pancakes, soup games, tombola, raffleetc.

The Saturday stalls will be a TableTop Sale when various local crafts willbe for sale, the vendors having rentedthe table space for the day.

Admission to see the static displays is£1. Accompanied children are free, andthere is a Santas Grotto too. There is nocharge to see the stalls.Coffee Shop Proceeds

The coffee shop which is open everyTuesday to Friday from 10am to noon isstaffed by volunteers from the village,mostly (but not entirely) from the Meth-odist, Anglican & Catholic communities.They have decided to give the surplusmoney to the following groups and or-ganisations: £1500 for medical suppliesin the Gambia, £1000 to Rainbows,£1000 to LOROS, £700 towards the roofat Birstall Scouts HQ, and £700 to‘Wishes 4 kids’.Harrison Road

Regular worshippers are remindedthere is no Service at Birstall on Novem-ber 18. There is to be a Circuit Serviceat Harrison Road Church (Top of MarfittStreet) and the service will start at10.30am. Parking will be available near-by.Cliff Richard Tribute Act

On Saturday November 3 Will Chan-dler, the UK’s number 1 Sir Cliff Richardtribute Act, will present a superb eveningof entertainment in aid of the BarkFoundation supporting HOTPEC Orphan-age. Tickets are £10 (Tel 2677576).Charnwood Toys On The Table Appeal

At the Family Service will be held onDecember 2 gifts will be received tobrighten up Christmas for the less fortu-nate children of Charnwood. Why notbuy a child a Christmas present or givea good quality used toy as you selectyour gifts for others this Christmas. Ifyou cannot get to the service, then doleave your gift at the coffee shop, with alabel for the Toys on the Table Appeal.

From Tony Moore, BirstallMethodist Church

P/12/2129/2: 6 Cliffe Road – amendmentto planning application P/12/1706/2 toalter Juliette balcony to rear of dwellingP/12/2211/2: 2 Curzon Ave – 50% crownreduction of 2 sycamore treesP/12/2204/2: 25 Kilby Ave – erection of asingle storey extension and conversion ofgarage to rear of dwellingP/12/2210/2: the Earl of Stamford, FrontStreet – notification of installation ofelectronic communications equipmentcabinet & replacement of antennaeP/12/2096/2: Land at Hallam Fields (Area2), Loughborough Rd – erection of 45dwellings & associated worksP/12/2095/2: 147 Stonehill Ave – conver-sion of garage to habitable space

Craft Fair Early NoticeWe will again be attending the vil-

lage’s Christmas Craft Fair in the Village

The free Wednesday evening ses-sions, from 6-9pm, will be launched atan Open Evening on Wednesday No-vember 7.

Sue Coulson from Birstall ParishCouncil said: “We would like to inviteall parents and young people aged 8 to11 to come along and see what theyouth café has to offer. Staff will beavailable on the night to answer anyquestions.”

The Youth Café is a Parish Councilproject that started in 2009 following aconsultation process with young peo-ple. Originally provided for 12-19 yearolds, the Parish Council is now offer-ing Wednesday evenings for the 8-11age group for a trial period of sixmonths.

YOUNG PEOPLE aged 8-11 are being invited to attendBirstall’s Youth Café on the School Lane playing field.

The Friday evening session for12-19s from 7-10pm will continue.

Birstall Youth Café is located in thesports pavilion of the School Laneplaying field. Activities and facilitiesoffered free include:• Arts & Crafts• Foods from around the worldCooking• Table tennis• Pool tournaments• Flower arranging• Hair & Beauty• Air Hockey table• Wii• Karaoke• Tuck Shop

Churchnews

Planning

Café opens foryounger children

Hall on Friday December 7, with calen-dars, Christmas cards, books and craftsfrom The Lodge Trust (which providesChristian care for adults with learningdifficulties). Further details next month.Services

Our visiting speaker for November 18is Paul Linnell from Wigston. This serv-ice, as usual, will be held in the Com-munity Room at Highcliffe PrimarySchool (LE4 3DL) at 10.45am and youwill be most welcome to join us for thisor any of our Sunday services. Forfurther information please ring 01162214883.

From Anne Taylor, Birstall In-dependent Baptist Church

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THE AUTUMN marks abusy time for the club.

On Wednesday November 28we have our Open Meeting withthe well-known and very populardemonstrator, Nick Grounds, stag-ing a Christmas spectacular.

His job as an auctioneer ena-bles him to present an extremelyentertaining performance and thisyear he passed his National Dem-onstrator test, putting him amongthe elite top demonstrators in thecountry. This will be a fun, flower-packed evening with superb ar-rangements to watch and win.Tickets (£8) including refresh-ments are extremely limited soplease ring Sylvia on 2674206 toreserve yours.

On Friday December 7 we willhave a stall at the Birstall ParishCouncil Christmas Market wheretable arrangements, swags, gar-lands, rings and wreaths will beon sale. All will be unique andhighly individual.

Come along and join us – eve-ryone is welcome.

From Birstall Flower Club

A NEW counselling service,operating from the Method-ist Churches in Syston andBirstall is being opened.

It is called Safe Space CounsellingService, and will be a place where peo-ple can make an appointment to see atrained counsellor and talk in a placethat is safe, secure and completely confi-dential.

A spokesman said: “It is well knownthat many people need to speak tosomeone at times of trouble in theirlives, whether someone is suffering rela-tionship problems, bereavement, moneyworries, redundancy or anything else.Often they find it hard to turn to some-one they are close to and would preferto speak to someone who is impartial tosupport them through the difficulttimes.”

The councillors are trained to listenand support the clients as they workthrough their problems, or anxiety.

The service will open in Novemberand the tel.no. is 07938779477. There isalso an email address:[email protected] and awebsite:www.safespacecounselling.org.uk. Ap-pointments can be made to suit theindividual.

The club competition finals tookplace throughout September and thewinners are below.Ladies Winners:Championship: Pa Walker, RunnerUp: Jan EverittHandicap: Val Ross, Runner Up:Anne BodenMaiden: Angie Parkin, Runner Up:Barbara MullinsThree Wood: Val Ross, Runner Up:Di HartopTwo Wood: Val Ross, Runner Up:Barbara MuillinsPairs: Cynthia Chapman & BarbaraMullins, Runners Up: Gill Henderson& Val RossEdith Smith Pairs: Sheila Jenkins &Pa Walker, Runners Up: Anne Boden& Margaret FreemanFielding & Everitt Cups: BarbaraMullins, Runner Up: Val RossMen’s winners:Championship: Andy Wye, RunnerUp: Tom CowlesHandicap: Stuart Hartop, Runner Up:John EatonMaiden: Gary Norman, Runner Up:John JenkinsThree Wood: Dave Clarke, RunnerUp: John WalkerTwo Wood: Dave Clarke, Runner Up:

BIRSTALL BOWLING Club’s outdoor season has finished, with the highlightbeing Pa Walker, Jan Everitt, Jennie Groves and Diane Hurst being crownedChampions of England in the Ladies National Fours competition.

Andy WyePairs: Roger Wildbore & Bob Coop-er, Runners Up: Barry Jarvis & TomCowlesClub Night Cup: Dave BurtonMixed Competition Winners:Club Open: Andy Wye, Runner Up:Tom CowlesSaunders Cup: Pa & John Walker,Runners Up: Jan & Jack BerryAdnett Cup: Velma Allen & DaveHill, Runners Up: Pa Walker & PaulJacksonSue Andrews Trophy: Ron Andrews,Pa & John Walker, Runners Up: JanBerry, Pam Ratcliffe & John Jenkins

Just after the season finished over30 members and guests headed off toSpain for a tour of the Mojacar, Alme-ria region. Throughout the weekcaptain John Hurst was issuing finesfor various misdemeanours. Despitethis, a great time was had by all with£240 raised in just five days, whichincluded a generous donation of £50from one of the opponents on thetour, Cabrera Bowls Club, following abarbeque and karaoke evening attheir club. The money, when convert-ed to Sterling, is being donated to theLeicester Branch of Parkinson’s UK.

From Birstall Bowling Club

BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI met atHighcliffe School on October 1.

In a packed and busy meeting we heardthat 24 of our members managed to walk atotal of 683 miles this Summer. So the WI didget us moving.

Unfortunately we were knocked out of ourskittle tournament by Astill Lodge WI on Sep-tember 27 but it was a very close game. Wediscussed how to make decorations for ourtree at the Methodist Church Christmas Fairand this will keep us busy over the next fewweeks.

As usual there are plenty of other activitiesto look forward to including a trip to theCurve to see Hello Dolly. Our speaker wasCarol Smith whose talk was entitled ‘I wasadopted finding a family’. It was fascinatinglistening to the many clues she followed upover her 12 years travelling across Britaintrying to find her birth family. Her persistencewas rewarded as a story worthy of CatherineCookson unfolded.

She eventually discovered that her nomadicmother had given birth to seven children fiveof whom were adopted and even though hermother didn’t want to be reminded of her pastand has since died Karen was at least reunitedwith her siblings. Our next meeting is ourAGM on November 5 where we will discussthe past year and look forward to 2013. After-wards we will partake of mince pies and aquiz.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

CAP Money is a free coursedevised by charity Chris-tians Against Poverty whichtrains churches to help peo-ple learn how to set ahousehold budget and stickto it.

It challenges people to live withoutrelying on credit cards, tackle existingfinancial problems and save for a stablefuture.

It has been found to be useful for allages from newly retired people, to soon-to-be students, families saving for aforthcoming wedding and people withloans and debts who want to getstraight.

The first CAP Money course in Bir-stall was run during September at StJames. “Six people attended, all ofwhom appeared to find the course use-ful. Everyone took an active part in thecourse and there was much laughter!”said a spokesman.

After the course one of the delegateswrote: “Before the course I didn’t knowwhere I was financially. I wanted toknow where all my money was going.After the course I feel very confident andorganised. Using cash has enabled me tokeep track of my spending…..I found it avery simple, easy to follow course, whichcan give you confidence in dealing withyour finances and enhance your lifestylegiving you peace of mind.”

Each of the three sessions follows asimilar structure: an introduction fol-lowed by watching the DVD provided byCAP. Then a break for refreshments. TheDVD usually sparks off discussion, whichculminates in a couple of exercises tohelp clarify some of the ideas put for-ward in the DVD.

The next course will be run just be-fore Christmas: 7.30 – 9.30pm, MondayNov 19 , 26 and Dec 3 in the Communi-ty Area at St James Church, Church Hill,Birstall.

If you’re interested in attendingplease contact

Gill Chester on 0116 2120236(email:[email protected]) or

Lesley Walton on 01162674995(email: [email protected])

Localmoneycourse

Club finishes seasonwith Spanish tour

Flowerclub

WI news

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will be published on Dec 1.The copy deadline is Nov 16.


Nine and 68: the two ages in lifewhere Brits have the most fun

Nine and 68 might seem like twoinsignificant numbers, but according tonew research they are the precise agesin life where we have the most fun andare at our most carefree.

The research, conducted with 2,000people from the ages of five to 80,investigated the exact points in lifewhere Brits are most like-ly to throw caution to thewind and put fun at thetop of their priorities list– and the results certainlycast doubt on the notionthat our twilight yearsconsist solely of slippers,suppers and Countdown.

Two thirds (64%) ofthose aged 68 claimedthat having fun is the oneof most important drivingforces in their lives; asentiment shared by 80%of those aged nine – morethan any other ages in life.In fact, for nearly threequarters (72%) of people in the primeof their lives (20s – 40s), having fundoesn’t even register in importancecompared to priorities such as payingoff debts and furthering careers.

Perhaps because of their easy-goingapproach to life, almost half (47%) ofchildren now believe that their grand-parents are far more fun than anyother family member – including mumand dad.

It’s not just in their day-to-day lives

that the older generation are showinga more fun-filled attitude either. Whenasked what their ideal holiday wouldconsist of, one in five (20%) over 60sdescribed an action-packed holiday ofadventure and thrills – challenging thestereotypes of cruises and coach trips.Surprisingly just 5% of those in their20s – 40s would choose the sameadrenaline-fuelled itinerary as senior

citizens, with the majority (56%) in-stead longing for a sedentary beachholiday.

And if further proof was neededthat the baby boomers are today’sultimate fun-seekers, almost two thirds(63%) said that they are now far morewilling to try out new experiences andtake risks than they when they wereyounger. In fact, 34% of people intheir 60s and beyond listed skydiving,bungee jumping and surfing as top oftheir ‘must do’ activities – bringing awhole new meaning to the term ‘silversurfers’.

In contrast, a staggering 73% ofthose in their 20s – 40s admitted thatwork and financial pressures, alongwith family commitments restricts themfrom being as fun and impulsive asthey’d like. These demands of the dailygrind certainly haven’t gone unnoticedby kids under 10, with 78% of thosesurveyed saying that having to get a joband not being able to have fun all thetime are the single worst things aboutgrowing up.

Psychologist Susan Quilliam, whohas today released a report analysing

the results of the research, comments:“The results cement the idea of a spe-cial bond that we so often see betweengrandparents and grandchildren. Eachis at a stage in their life when they arediscovering or - in the grandparent’scase - rediscovering the boundaries bywhich most of us live our lives. Thecarefree attitude that the nine and 68year olds share is something that manyin-between those ages strive for, butthey’re restricted by social constraintsas well as the pursuit of personalgoals. But the young and the oldergrasp life with both hands – makingfor that great grandchild-grandparentcompatibility.”

Excerpts from the report authoredby Susan Quilliam:

On being nine:At this age we

have strength, ener-gy, enthusiasm andmotivation for actionand adventure, butwe haven't yet takenon board moneyworries, careerstresses, love angst,huge expectations orheavy responsibili-ties. What we wantas a nine-year-old -and what we arehugely capable ofachieving - is asmuch fun as we canget.

On being 68:This is the decade where we are

most likely to think 'if not now, when?'.There is a certain sense of 'we'reworth it', and a tendency to put our-selves first after so many years of pri-oritising job and family - and giventhat, we're ready to take more risksand live life to the full. Which is why,as we reach retirement and the fewyears following retirement, our care-free, impulsive nature fully resurfaces,reaching a peak in our late sixties. Nowonder 68 is a good age.Healthy living into old age can addup to six years to your life

Living a healthy lifestyle into old agecan add five years to women’s livesand six years to men’s, finds a studyfrom Sweden published on bmj.com.

The authors say this is the firststudy that directly provides informationabout differences in longevity accord-ing to several modifiable factors.

It is well known that lifestyle fac-tors, like being overweight, smokingand heavy drinking, predict deathamong elderly people. But is it uncer-tain whether these associations areapplicable to people aged 75 years ormore.

So a team of researchers based inSweden measured the differences insurvival among adults aged 75 andolder based on modifiable factors suchas lifestyle behaviours, leisure activi-ties, and social networks.

The study involved just over 1,800individuals who were followed for 18years (1987-2005). Data on age, sex,occupation, education, lifestyle behav-iours, social network and leisure activ-ities were recorded.

During the follow-up period 92% ofparticipants died. Half of the partici-pants lived longer than 90 years.

Survivors were more likely to bewomen, be highly educated, havehealthy lifestyle behaviours, have abetter social network, and participatein more leisure activities than non-survivors.

The results show that smokers diedone year earlier than non-smokers.Former smokers had a similar patternof survival to never smokers, suggest-ing that quitting smoking in middle agereduces the effect on mortality.

Of the leisure activities, physicalactivity was most strongly associatedwith survival. The average age at deathof participants who regularly swam,walked or did gymnastics was twoyears greater than those who did not.

Overall, the average survival of peo-ple with a low risk profile (healthylifestyle behaviours, participation in atleast one leisure activity, and a rich ormoderate social network) was 5.4years longer than those with a highrisk profile (unhealthy lifestyle behav-iours, no participation in leisure activi-ties, and a limited or poor socialnetwork).

Even among those aged 85 years orolder and people with chronic condi-tions, the average age at death wasfour years higher for those with a lowrisk profile compared with those witha high risk profile.

In summary, the associations be-tween leisure activity, not smoking, andincreased survival still existed in thoseaged 75 years or more, with women’slives prolonged by five years and men’sby six years, say the authors.

These associations, although attenu-ated, were still present among peopleaged 85 or more and in those withchronic conditions, they add.

“Our results suggest that encourag-ing favourable lifestyle behaviours evenat advanced ages may enhance lifeexpectancy, probably by reducing mor-bidity,” they conclude.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY Rex. I miss you sovery much. Love ShelaghX

Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us orhand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library.

Trade/business rates for small ads are 25pa word. You are liable for the trade/businessrate if you are offering a service for which youare asking for payment, or if you are advertis-ing new goods for sale. All text will be printedbold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words.Phone numbers count as one word.

Small Ads

Enjoy a complimentary therapy treatment in a calm relaxing atmosphere. Meet &chat to other patients & carers over a cup of tea. Therapies available includearomatherapy massage, reflexology, Indian head massage & reiki

Advertise in

The birstall post47 x 59mm £26 • 47 x 120mm £4498 x 59mm £44 • 98 x 120mm £78

CALL 2674213 for an advertising rate card,or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk

The prices above exclude VAT

1) Decide what size you want2) Send us a sketch of your ad3) We design, publish

& sendyou thebill

SEXYWednesdays£26This Size

+VAT


ACROSS THE globe Novem-ber is Lung Cancer Aware-ness month.

Lung Cancer is the most commoncancer in the world. In the UK,around 40,000 new cases arediagnosed each year. It is themost common cause of cancerdeath in the UK, for both menand women.

Everyone is at risk of de-veloping lung cancer. It isknown that smokers and ex-smok-ers have an increased risk of gettinglung cancer. However, please rememberthat people who have never smoked arealso at risk of getting this disease.

There are other things that increasethe risk of developing lung cancer. Forexample, contact with chemicals foundin the workplace or environment, suchas asbestos, radon and diesel exhaust

fumes.Passive smoking (breathing

in other people’s cigarettesmoke) increases the risk oflung cancer, but it is stillmuch less than if you smokeyourself.

A healthy lifestyle is themost important way for you to pre-

vent lung cancer.• Keep physically fit• Have a healthy diet – eat more fruit

and vegetables and less salt, sugar anddrink less alcohol

• It is never too late to stop smoking– no matter what age you are, it canmake a real difference to your health

There are lots of reasons why youmight have some of the symptoms be-low. It may be nothing serious but it’sworth getting yourself checked out. Ifyou have any of the following symptomsfor more than three weeks, make anappointment with your GP today: unex-plained breathlessness; a cough thatwon’t go away; a long standing coughthat’s got worse; unexplained tirednessor lack of energy; unexplained weightloss; coughing up blood; hoarse voice;chest and/or shoulder pains; chest infec-tions.

Remember early diagnosis really cansave lives!

Birstall BAG’s continue to fund theBirstall Time Out Group held the 2ndand 4th Wednesday of each month at theVillage Hall and are delighted to confirmthat thanks to your generosity and sup-port we recently presented the UniversityHospitals of Leicester with £8231 tohelp with the new Cancer InformationCentre at the Leicester Royal Infirmary.

For more information:http://www.roycastle.org/news-and-

campaigning/Campaigns/November-is-Lung-Cancer-Awareness-Month

Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation0333 323 7200

Macmillan Cancer Support free phonehelp line 0808 808 000 Monday – Fri-day 9am-8pm.

University Hospitals of Leicester Can-cer Information Centre on 0116 2586189.

To reflect the interest and support ofthe local community Birstall BAG's seeksto be inclusive of all cancers and thegroup welcome villagers to support themany events they organise each yearwithin the local community.

For more information on the fundswe have raised, projects we support andforthcoming events seewww.birstallbags.co.uk

From Birstall BAGS

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERLongslade College, Wanlip Lane,

Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GHEditor: Mr Jerry Jackson

Editorial/Advertising (Tel & Fax)

0116 2674213Correspondence, news etc

can be handed in at:Birstall Library or to our office in the

Youth Centre,Longslade College, Birstall

[email protected]

• Minimum 4 years’ experience• Trained to NVQ level 3,

or equivalent• Advantage if trained in

Electrolysis, Bare Minerals,Jessica & St. Tropez

• Competitive salary

Beauty Therapist Requiredpart time for the

Beautyroom, 16 Woodgate, Rothley

Call Sarah for an informal chat(0116) 230 1903

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner

Repair & Servicefor all makes of

domestic appliance

We are a family run businessbased in Birstall,

established for over 12 years.We repair, service &install all makes of:

Electric Cooker (incl range style)Washing machine

Dishwasher• Tumble dryerExtractor hood•Fridge / FreezerWe can also supply spare parts

and consumables

Tel: 0116 2671166Mobile 07969 953958

www.bishopsappliancecare.co.ukEmail - [email protected]

We are appointed service engineers bymany leading manufacturers includingRangemaster, DeDietrich, Fagor, Caple,

Whiteknight/Crossley, Daewoo, Kenwood,Currys and Comet

For an honest, reliable & promptservice please call us today

proSP CSeyewear

at the best pricesQuality spectacles

visit our showroom

Unit 3,Victoria MillsFowke St,RothleyEasy Parking

Top quality lenses including Varilux, Nikon, Zeiss

Contact Mike or Teresa Keily on 0116 237 6098DESIGNERFRAMES

GET A QUOTE FROM US BEFORE YOU BUYYOUR NEXT PAIROF SPECTACLES Same day service on most plastic lenses

I offer friendly,professional & reliableelectrical services tobusinesses & homes inBirstall at affordable prices

Richard Borrajo2 Hallam Ave, Birstall07530 [email protected]

• Sales, Repairs & Upgrades• Wired & Wireless Networking• Branded & Custom Built PCs• Laptops, printers, peripherals & accessories• Server Installation & Support• On-site Maintenance & Remote Support• Original & Compatible Cartridges/Toners• Buy Dell products through our store

C o v e r i n g L e i c e s t e r s h i r e0116 2672583

Mob: 0796 7 191975www.ntlcomputers.co.uk

3 The Meadway, Birstall LE4 4NG

need anneed anelectrician?electrician?

Simon Oates Electrical Contractors18 Cliffwood Ave • Birstall • Leicester

0116 2672675 or 07816 288765www.birstallelectrical.co.uk

“Local, Reliable,Clean & Tidy”That’s what our customers are telling us!see our web site for more testimonials.• Fuse board upgrade/Rewires• Additional sockets & lighting• Landlord safety certificates/PAT testing• Electric showers fully installed• All work guaranteed• Free call out for elderly people

An EnergyPerformance

Certificate (EPC)is still required if youare selling or renting

out your house.

Call David Jackson on0781 5519490

to arrange your EPC

Documents

Birstall Post 352 November 2012