April 2012 Herald

APRIL 2012

Think of others this Easter Visit to our Partner and give a better gift News from South Charnwood High School

School in Rwanda

Easter time is often a time for following tradition, whether old or new, such as attending religious services or the giving of cards and Easter eggs. NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is asking for people in the Markfield area to think about those less fortunate than themselves and give a better gift this Easter by donating blood. Over 7000 units of blood are needed every day by hospitals treating patients undergoing treatments for cancer, by those who’ve been involved in road traffic accidents and by women who experience complications during childbirth, to name just a few. Holly Mason, spokesperson for NHSBT, said: “Blood is needed by patients 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Without the regular commitment of blood donors many lives would be lost and we are very grateful to our loyal and committed donors who save lives every time they donate. If you’ve not donated before please consider doing so this Easter and make donating blood your new tradition.” Upcoming local sessions include:

Wednesday 9th May 2012

By MAXINE MASON Funding through the British Council’s Global Partnership scheme has given staff and pupils at South Charnwood a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the lives of teachers, pupils and their families in Rwanda, Africa and also share experiences of education. Shared projects with our partner school, GS Nyagatare, including letter writing, poetry and art work, have already been exchanged and

WELCOME: Maxine Mason meets the teachers in Ruanda it is hoped that staff and students can learn from each other and also develop a better understanding of Global Citizenship. I have been involved in the project since it began in 2010 and was delighted to be offered the opportunity to visit Rwanda with seven other teachers from Leicestershire who also have partner schools there. So, on Saturday 4th February we set off on our journey to Africa. We were all a little nervous about travelling so far to a developing country but very Continued on page 4

at Markfield Community & Sports Centre - see advert on page 28 Anyone wanting to donate for the first time should be aged between 17-65, weighing at least 50 kg (7 stone 12lbs) and in general good health. If you’ve donated before, you can start again up to your 70th birthday and there is no upper age limit for donors who have donated in the last two years. To find out more about blood sessions in April or to book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk

INSIDE THIS MONTH’S PACKED ISSUE! Markfield girl performs at CURVE • Matthew Lay reports on a big spend Pet of the Month • Minutes of Parish Councils • Theatre Group News Bagworth Bowls Club Open Night • Chris & Ozzy’s Council Report News & Services from the local Churches • David Sprason’s Report Fashion Show for Chernobyl Children Charity • Prize Wordsearch

Plus LOADS more! How is it possible?

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Competition Winner!

Molly wins a new bike!

Do you ever feel the need to switch off and be still? Silent prayer and meditation have a long Christian tradition and we can learn much from the experiences of others. There is no right way to pray: prayer is God's action in us.

is an opportunity to relax, find peace within ourselves and 'reflect' on our place in the world. It will offer creative suggestions for reading, thinking and exploring prayer.

Trinity Methodist Church on Wednesday 28th March 6-7pm

Tel: 01530 244069

Come for as long as you wish and leave when you want. No one will ask you any questions; however, people will be around if you need to talk or pray with someone. Refreshments will be available. All are welcome, whether you go to church or if church isn't for you; you may just like the idea of a bit of peace and quiet.

info@markfieldherald.co.uk www.markfieldherald.co.uk

The Herald is a monthly local magazine delivered free to approximately 4,000 homes and businesses in Markfield, Field Head, Stanton under Bardon, Thornton and Bagworth.

Future dates: Wednesdays 25th April, 23rd May & 27th June

Further information: Karen (249829) or Rosemary (242844

Lent Lunch

Contact Mike Wilkinson with your articles, news items or advertising enquiries.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. The Herald reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © The Herald None of the articles or adverts contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from The Herald.

This issue of The Herald is being delivered over the weekend of 7-8 April 2012 by The Herald’s team of dedicated deliverers, namely: Coral, Maureen, John, Phoebe, Sam, Sarah, Jack, Ian, Ann, Gill, Janet, John, Helen, Don, Jeanie, Jenny, Bradley, Daisy, Heather, Margaret, Matthew, Alexander, Mike, Rowan, John & Sue.

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Tickets are £4.00 from Brend

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South Charnwood High School pupil, Molly Simpson won the top prize of a new bike in a recent competition organised by School Food Support, the service that runs dining facilities throughout Leicestershire schools. Molly was a very deserving winner with her excellent design of a Winter Warmer Menu and was presented with her prize at a school assembly by Wendy Philps from the School Food Support Service. Well done Molly and happy cycling!

Crafts Fayre & Mini Market Saturday 14th April - 9am-1pm Copt Oak Memorial Hall Refreshments and Tombola £7 per table/£10 per trestle table Admission 50p. Children free To book a table please contact Sue and Les - 01530 244229 Jan and David - 0116 2674746

LETTERS

Markfield Main Street ‘is in danger of becoming purely functional’ Sue Hartley’s letter in March’s Herald is timely (“Main Street Markfield used to be so inviting”). I’ve only lived in the village for about twelve years so my knowledge isn’t as great as Sue’s, but I do agree that Main Street lacks some of the qualities that other villages have (Sue mentions Anstey). It’s in danger of becoming purely functional - a place where people stop briefly before moving on. The community would need to accept that, for new businesses (e.g. retail outlets, coffee shop) to emerge, they need to be financially viable. I too would dearly like to see a gift shop which doubles as a tea/coffee shop; shoppers would then have the incentive to stay a little longer in the Street before going home. I was delighted when the hardware shop reopened, and it’s important that we continue to support it. We have a fantastic Indian takeaway (surely serving some of the finest Indian food in the county?); wouldn’t it be wonderful if that could be expanded to become a restaurant as well - perhaps moving premises across the road? I believe the village could also support an Italian restaurant - it’s such a pity that one has to drive some miles to experience decent Italian food. I’m sure we are all looking forward to the new Co-op: that will enhance Main Street. Maybe this could go hand in hand with further tasteful developments.

Malcolm Goldring

A gift shop in Markfield would be lovely! Sue Hartley made a very good point in your latest issue. Markfield’s village is poor compared to other villages around the local area. The village is crying out for a good little cafe and like Sue says a gift shop would be lovely. A florist and a butchers would add to the area too. I would support our local area rather than visiting a supermarket if it was available locally and I’d definitely go for a coffee if a coffee shop was available!

Sallyann Fowles He who hesitates is not lost, but several miles from the next motorway exit.

Ruanda trip from page 1

excited about observing lessons and teaching in an African school. After checking in at Heathrow Airport in London , we would be flying first to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, then on to Entebbe, Uganda and finally on to Kigali in Rwanda. The journey certainly presented us with some challenges: seven hours sat in a plane on the snow-covered runway at Heathrow Airport; missing our connecting flight as a result of the delay; our luggage being left in Ethiopia and a missing passport! We eventually arrived in Kigali in the early hours of Monday morning and, as Nyagatare is a three hour drive from Kigali, we decided to spend the night sleeping on the benches in the café to wait for our luggage which would arrive on the next flight - 2pm Monday afternoon! We were all very tired by the time our luggage came and climbed on our mini-bus to embark on the last stretch of our journey to Nyagatare but we were still in high spirits and excited. I tried to stay awake to catch my first glimpses of Rwanda and what I saw was both fascinating and humbling. As we moved away from the city and deeper into rural Rwanda I saw children playing at the edge of the dusty roads; some with shoes, some without. There were people riding bicycles piled high with bananas or bundles of firewood. Others were collecting water from the river and then carrying it home in large yellow containers. During the course of the week we visited all of the schools in the partnership and were made to feel very welcome. Every school

had prepared a special welcome assembly where we were greeted with speeches and entertained with the most wonderful singing and dancing performed by talented students of all ages. They also had a lot of fun watching our attempts to join in and dance ‘African’ style! The children were excited to shake our hands and greet us and we were made to feel like celebrities! Teaching styles in Rwanda are very different to those in the UK but the students I taught responded enthusiastically and seemed to enjoy reading and displaying the Hands of Friendship made by students from South Charnwood. They produced some of their own which I brought back to the UK to display in our school. They have also written replies to the letters we sent to them last year and these are being distributed to our staff and students. Resources in our partner school are limited and the teachers there face many challenges teaching groups of 50 children in basic classrooms with a blackboard and chalk. However, the standard of the teaching and the work I saw was exemplary and I was very impressed by the teachers’ dedication and the children’s attitude to education. A reciprocal visit is being arranged for teachers from Rwanda to come to the UK in May this year and we look forward to welcoming them in our school. My trip was inspiring and I believe that the partnership is a valuable learning experience for our students. As for me ... well I think I left a little bit of my heart in Africa!

Maxine Mason

The only reason my dad wanted to be a bus driver was because he wanted to tell people where to get off. There was this Eskimo girl who spent the night with her boyfriend and next morning found out that she was six months pregnant.

Logic is a systematic method of coming to the wrong conclusion with confidence.

Markfield HomeMakers Programme for 2012 Markfield HomeMakers meet in the Congregational Hall, Main Street, Markfield, on the second Wednesday of the month at 8pm. Call: Brenda on 01530 242173 or Iris on 01530 242436 April 11th ~ Steve Brooks Tales of a Travel Agent May 9th ~ Fiona Ure Everything stops for tea June 13th ~ Mike Bull A talk about the Little Theatre Aug 8th Skittles ~ 7.15 for 7.30pm At Little Markfield Farm Sep 12th Thomas Coxon Feng Shui & Chinese Horoscopes Oct 10th ~ Food Link Nov 14th ~ Rob Bostock Life of a Vet Dec 12th ~ Christmas Party

Local girl Hannah performs at Curve Markfield girl Hannah Everest is appearing in the Broadway classic, Gypsy, at the Curve, Leicester as Baby June. Hannah, aged 9, attends Mercenfeld School and has been dancing and singing since the age of 3 at the Ann Oliver Stage School in Leicester. A total of 17 youngsters were cast in January and they are performing in alternating groups. Opening night was Saturday 10th March and everything went really well. The production continues at the Curve until 15th April.

Jan 9th ~ Dinner

While at a concert being performed by a very bad orchestra, George Bernard Shaw was asked what he’d like them to play next. ‘Dominoes,’ he replied.

Money is the root of all evil, and man needs roots.

Park and ride deals People taking advantage of a spring park and ride offer can travel to Leicester and back from just £1.48* a day. Shoppers, commuters, residents and visitors can save money on journeys from Birstall, Enderby and Meynell’s Gorse thanks to some special vouchers. The deals are: • A 10 trip ticket available for 10 return journeys within two months for £22.50 (usual price £26), available for purchase between March 19 and April 28** just £2.20* a day with a voucher • A four week ticket for £35.50 (usual price £42), available for purchase between March 19 and April 28**, just £1.48* a day with a voucher The vouchers will be available in local newspapers, can be downloaded from www.quicksilverbus.co.uk or can be picked up from terminus buildings at Birstall, Enderby and Meynell’s Gorse. They are also available on park and ride buses and at selected libraries, service shops and other local outlets (while stocks last) - see terms and conditions at www.quicksilverbus. co.uk Alternatively, copies can be requested by calling the helpline on 0116 305 0002. The ticket offers are only available when presenting the driver with a promotional voucher within the offer periods.

Council takes full ownership of council housing stock Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in the Herald A big thing happened at the Borough Council this month and yet there was almost no coverage of this event in any newspaper or on the radio. It passed by without a mention anywhere and yet it has bothered me a great deal. Not just the decision, but how that decision took place and what it says about local democracy. This month the Borough Council made a decision to borrow £68 million pounds to buy itself out of the government’s housing revenue account. This decision is one I broadly support and which I will go on to explain, but it was the decision on how that money should be borrowed and the various permutations that go with this, that concerned me. To make it clear at the beginning, the housing functions at the Council are ring-fenced and so in theory the council tax does not support council housing and council

housing revenue does not support the council tax. The decision to borrow £68 million pounds has all party support and makes a great deal of sense. What it means is that the Borough Council will in effect take full ownership of its council housing stock and to put it simply, not be subject to handing over its rents to central government in return for a grant to carry out repairs and manage it. The system of having a national housing revenue account has been around almost as long as council housing itself, but in recent years it has very much worked against the council and the residents of the Borough. We have been taking far more in rents than we were getting back in subsidy, so in fact we were giving money to the treasury in a form of negative subsidy. A key reason for this, is that the Borough Council’s housing stock has been well maintained over many years and is in good condition. You might ask why did the council not in simply set lower rents? but the Council does not have full control over the rents

it sets and it has to work towards rents that are in line with those charged by housing associations (they should be converging at some point in the future). In fact the situation was such that if the council had reduced rents, the formula used by the government would have meant even less money going to the Borough council. This much needed reform began some 5 years ago and it has taken this long to actually happen and it represents a bit of good news for the Council. With the Council taking more in rents than it spends on repairs and maintenance it leaves the council with a potential surplus which it could reinvest to provide additional stock (we have over 3,000 people on the Borough Council’s waiting list) which in turn creates additional rent revenue to again use. In real terms, council housing could be totally selffinancing because the council can borrow money cheaper than anyone else and it can do so over a longer term. It is the profile of the borrowing and the options available which as

Whenever a body is immersed in water ... the phone rings.

I mentioned concerned me. The Council is borrowing more money than in its entire history and that decision was rightly taken by the full council at a full public council meeting. The decision on how that borrowing should be repaid should also have been a decision of the full council (in my opinion) but instead it was reserved to a small number of councillors who comprise the executive. How we repay the borrowing matters because the Council could do many things, all of which make a big difference in different ways. The Council could seek to repay the money as soon as possible which on reasonable projections would take about 17 years. However this would leave no money to invest in new stock, and in 17 years’ time who knows what the picture will be like, or even if Hinckley and Bosworth and its housing function will exist. The other options all consist of delaying repayments for different numbers of years. The decision which the executive reached was to only start repaying the money

after year 8. This decision was recommended by the Council’s finance director, as it creates the biggest surplus over a short period which can be used to provide new units of housing. The amount of surplus is over £20 million, but different options change that considerably, not by a few pounds but by millions, which is why getting it right is so important and why it should have been a decision for a full council with all councillors present. Ideally you would match your borrowing to a clear policy choice such as building 100 new houses in the first 5 years. I mentioned earlier that the Council have known about this for some years and yet at the

very end it was all rushed through and the ruling administration have not been clear about their intentions or the policy they seek to pursue. This has left everything very unsatisfactory and is a bit like clutching defeat from the hand of victory. It was also unnecessary as consensus across the political divides is better and more productive, and the likely outcome on this particular issue. Still we are where we are and at least the right decision was taken (on the available evidence) which allows the Council to look at ways it can deliver more accommodation. I think the best option will be for the Council to work with those developers who are developing residential sites in the Borough, this is at least what I shall be arguing for. These sites require a percentage of houses built, to be either affordable rent or purchase. If we can secure a foothold on new developments we will distribute the housing better across the Borough and get it to where it is needed and within a reasonable timeframe. The prospect of the Council again increasing its housing stock should be good news as it will offer more choice to people in this Borough. I predict that housing will become a major issue going forward and if we can do something positive to address this we should not stand by and be idle.

Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary - Pet of the Month for April Monkey; Female, 6 years old, dainty black short-hair; Monkey (who really looks a bit like a monkey), arrived at Redgate in June 2011 and is still looking for her new forever home. She used to live in a multi-cat household where she was being bullied by the other cats and she is not enjoying life in a cattery. As a result, Monkey is wary of new faces and needs someone to help her feel reassured and safe in a quiet, loving home without other cats or young children. We are confident that, once out of the cattery, Monkey will come out of her shell and become a much more approachable and affectionate cat. She just needs that chance. Can YOU help little Monkey? Please phone us on 01530 243 925 or email us at redgate@mail.org for more information.

What do you call a Tellytubby who has been burgled? Tubby. What did the bra say to the hat? You go on ahead, while I give these two a lift.

Behind every successful man is a surprised mother-in-law.

A Delightful South Charnwood girls 5-a-side team come third Afternoon of Entertainment in the National Finals! raises funds for Local Charity The Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation is pleased to announce that its Patron, Professor Peter Welton, will be giving a Talk entitled ‘Art and Serendipity’ on Friday 20th April 2012 at Ulverscroft Manor.

Following their success in the Midland Finals earlier in the year, South Charnwood High School’s Girls’ 5-a-side football team played in the National Finals in Derby on 5 March 2012. The same 6 girls who won the area finals made up the Charnwood squad playing against teams from all over England. South Charnwood were in a group with three other teams. With one win, and two draws, South Charnwood scored a total of 10 goals, which put them into second place in the group table and taking them through to the knock-out stages. South Charnwood played their first and last game against Houghton Kepier School (Sunderland SFA). The girls played with passion and spirit but were beaten in the last minute. Overall, South Charnwood came third in the National Finals – a magnificent achievement. Each member of the squad should be proud of themselves - well done to you all!

If Woody Allen had married Natalie Wood, divorced her and married Gregory Peck, divorced him and married Ben Hur, he’d be Woody Wood Peck Hur.

Be enthralled as Peter, the Leicestershire-based watercolour painter, talks about his life and work as an artist. He will relate how he went from railway porter at Barnetby junction in Lincolnshire to Professor of Fine Art at De Montfort University, resigned that post to be a full-time artist and was then commissioned by H.M. the Queen to paint a picture for her Private Collection. He claims all this was due to happy perchance……or serendipity. A print of the Queen’s painting will be on display along with examples of his wonderful varied work. Alan Norman, Chief Executive of the Foundation, said “this is a unique opportunity to meet Peter and be entertained as he recalls his most memorable moments in life. We are very grateful for his support with this event.” The afternoon starts at 2.00 p.m. with refreshments being served whilst you look at the paintings. Tickets for this wonderful event are £10.00 each and are available from the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation. For more information please contact the Admin Team on 01530 244914 or via admin@shuttlewood-clarke.org. Ulverscroft Manor, Priory Lane, Ulverscroft, Leicestershire, LE67 9PH Fundraising income is extremely important to the long term development of the Foundation and your support in publicising this event is greatly welcomed and appreciated. Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation – Registered Charity Number 803525 www.shuttlewood-clarke.org www.yewtrail.org.uk

Popular demand sees charity extend openings Registered Charity, the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation, is delighted to announce that due to popular demand Ulverscroft Grange Community Support and Wellbeing Centre, with Tea Rooms and Charity Shop, will be opening for four Saturdays during the year. Open between 10.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. the dates for opening will be: Saturday 26th May, Saturday 30th June, Saturday 1st September and Saturday 6th October, 2012. Alan Norman, Chief Executive of the Foundation, said “we are thrilled to be able to meet people’s requests and open on a Saturday. Please make a note of the four dates and bring your friends and family along.” Please note that these will be the only Saturdays Ulverscroft Grange Tea Rooms and Charity Shop will be open during 2012. For further details about the Saturday openings or more information about the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation please telephone 01530 244914 or email admin@shuttlewood-clarke.org. Shuttlewood Clarke Fou8ndation – Registered Charity Number 803525 www.shuttlewood-clarke.org www.yewtrail.org.uk

It takes less time to do something right than it takes to explain why you did it wrong.

Street Collection in Markfield Christian Aid Week - 13th May – 19th May 2012 The Christian Aid envelopes will be delivered this year between 13th and 19th May. We are unable to return to each household to collect the envelopes but we kindly ask those who would like to contribute to return the envelope, with donation enclosed, to any of the addresses on the paper attached to the envelope. Remember to Gift Aid your donation if you are a UK taxpayer. Christian Aid can receive 25p more from the government for every £1 you contribute - at no extra cost to you. Just fill in the form attached to the envelope and place it in the envelope with your donation. And / Or Drop in to the Christian Aid Coffee Morning on Saturday 19th May at the Congregational Church Hall, Main Street, Markfield, 10am to 12 noon. Thank you all for your generosity.

CTIM (Churches Together in Markfield)

Markfield W.I. Programme Markfield Womens’ Institute has a packed and interesting programme of events lined up for 2012. See below: 21st March Chocolates with Hannah’s of Quorn: Tom Philips 18th April

Jerusalem Jammers Garland Dancers

16th May

Resolutions Evening plus Beetle Drive

20th June

Meningitis Trust: Jo Killick

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18th July

Flower Arranging demo: Sarah of Quorn

15th Aug

A Period Costume Show - Votes to Vapours - Notty Hornblower

19th Sept

Antiques Roadshow - Richard Plant

17th Oct

AGM & Phoebe Whittington: Trip to Tanzania

21st Oct

Our Birthday Meal

19th Dec

Twelve Days of Christmas: Anne Hughes

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10 Markfield & Thornton Theatre Group

Next production from MTTG Thank you to all of you who came along to see “Mother Goose” and who made it a successful and happy production for us. All goes quiet in MTTG after the pantomime – until we begin work on the next production! Are you comfortably ensconced on the settee as you read this with a quiet, leisurely evening stretching before you? Has nothing very exciting or interesting happened to you recently? Will this evening and the next… and the next… be pretty much the same? Of course, it’s impossible to expect the unexpected. After a busy day at the office, Cliff Brooks looks forward to another evening dozing in front of the television. However – all is about to change as one after another, visitors arrive to disrupt what has been the normal pattern of his life for some time. Will the Brooks family’s life ever be the same again as crossed messages and mistaken identities add to the confusion of the situation? Classed as a domestic comedy, “IDLE HANDS” BY RON HUTSON is to be staged at Thornton Community Centre from Wednesday 25th to Saturday 28th April 2012, at 7.30 nightly. Tickets, priced at £5 (£4 Concessions) are available now on 01455 822148 , at The Corner Shop, Thornton or from any Group member.

Would you like to win two tickets to come to see the play? Why not try our Quiz? The answers to the questions below all have a connection, (albeit loose in some instances!), with the “Hands” of the play’s title. (The Markfield & Thornton Theatre Group “Idle Hands” Quiz) 1. Who finds work for idle hands to do? 2. Who needed them to brush away the tears? 3. It’s an LV to be carried everywhere. 4. A Middle Eastern Republic joins forces to make a fearsome adversary for Jim. 5. “Praying Hands” is the famous work of which artist? 6. Add value to make a West Midlands suburb. 7. What’s a boomp between friends at the Music Hall? 8. Where do you have to put them to render assistance? 9. Which Lady was shocked by Jack’s revelation? 10. What did Pharoah’s daughter’s handmaid find in the river? 11. Barbra sang about her. 12. A Spanish article makes the composer complete. 13. Offred’s recount was Margaret’s creation. 14. What is a non-lavatorial but possibly regal flush? 15. An invaluable assistant. 16. Oily fans might find themselves born to it! 17. This existence provides only the bare essentials. 18. A stagecoach fell into this category because of the special rigging. 19. What equates to a duo in the greenery? 20. Dinner will end in five minutes when it’s put on the table top. Answers can be submitted to Barn Hills House, Merrylees Road, Thornton, LE67 1AP or by e-mail to murielwalker@f2s.com . The closing date for entries is Wednesday, 18th April 2012. In the event of a tie, the winner’s name will be drawn from a hat! Please come along in April to support your local Am. Dram. Group. You’ll be made very welcome.

I disagree with what you say, but I will defend your right to tell such lies.

11

Extracts fromMarkfield Parish Council Minutes The following items were among the topics discussed at the meeting of Markfield Parish Council on Tuesday 6th March 2012. The information comes from the unapproved minutes, and therefore may be subject to correction or alteration. • February 2012 Crime Figures: PC Harlock had sent her apologies and had emailed the following crime figures: 2 Burglaries - Bracken Way and Park Avenue,investigation ongoing. • Local Authority Traffic Wardens: - Mr G Payne, Traffic and Safety Manager, LCC had arranged for additional patrols to be undertaken in Markfield commencing 13th February 2012, this included patrolling later in the day than usual. • Car Sales on A50 at the Field Head Roundabout – Several members raised concerns about car sales activities still taking place on car parks adjacent to the highway. Mr Walmsley stated that he had read that under Cleaner Neighbourhood and Environment Act 2005, that it was an offence if a person leaves two or more parked vehicles within 500 meters of each other on roads where they are advertised for sale. Mr Sprason confirmed that this was the case, but the problem was that each vehicle was apparently being sold by different individuals. After further discussion the members agreed pursue some sort of “green screening” on the grass verge adjacent to the highway – Mr Lockley agreed to make some initial enquiries. The clerk would follow up the Parish Council’s request for a Traffic Regulation Order, made in May 2011. • Connecting people and wildlife grant from the Stepping Stones project: - The DLO had completed the works to a good standard. Sam Village had inspected the tree planting on Thursday 23rd February and had raised a grant cheque for the sum of £1404.68 which represents 74% of the total project costs as per the invoice received, excluding VAT. She had asked that the Parish Council need to keep a key eye on the hedge plants in

the playing field near Beech Walk, alongside the edge of the enclosed children’s play area as young people were still playing football there which could cause damage to the young saplings. The clerk asked if she should purchase some small signs-“No Ball Games in this area.” It was agreed not to at this time. • British Cycling – BMX Race Track – unused land at Jubilee Playing Fields; - Mr B Gibney, Curious Ecologists, had informed the clerk that the Ecological survey should be undertaken over the coming season, which starts around April. Mr Sprason agreed to attend a site meeting with the company and the clerk at the appropriate time. • High Speed Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK): - Mr. Sprason stated that the County Council had agreed to invest up to £4.3 million in broadband, including £300,000 for people in the most remote rural communities. There is also £3.4 million from the Government and further contributions are expected from district councils. Melton Borough, Harborough District and Charnwood Borough Councils’ had already committed funding towards the project and Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council had made an offer. A survey focusing on the specific broadband needs of businesses in all sectors had been developed so that all businesses could register their future requirements. • Planning application for the provision of 4 additional traveller pitches: Whitegate Stables Caravan Park, Copt Oak Road, Copt Oak, Markfield, Leicestershire, LE67 9PJ: Mr Sprason stated that Leics County Highways had objected to the additional pitches. • Old Timken site, Kirby Muxloe: - Mr Sprason stated that the County Council Highways

Department were trying to get the company to withdraw the condition that that the existing LGV route should run through Markfield to the A50 via Launde Road to the Roundabout at the Coach and Horses. • The Co-Op store redevelopment at The George Car Park and current empty shops along Main Street: - Mr Lay stated that it was planned that the new store would open November/December 2012. • Allotments – Hill Hole site: - The Borough Council had cleared an area of land and had fenced off to provide an additional 20 allotments. • Jelson development, Land off London Road, Markfield, -Revised scheme: - Mr Lay stated that the developers had agreed to amend their plans raised the following issues: 1. Balancing pond would be

2.

3. 4.

5.

6. 7.

8.

replaced by a wetland nature reserve Reduce the green spaces to one or two larger areas and a small play area. The number of retained farm buildings had been reduced Borough Council owned allotments adjacent to the site. Access should be re-established and allotments reinstated. The existing hedgerows would be partly removed around the entrance on Main Street. Some of the dwellings’ rear gardens faced London Road. The boundaries of the dwellings should be built from brick with wooden fencing above. 30 mile per hour speed limit would replace the current 40 mph.

The only angle from which to approach a problem is the Try-Angle.

12

Bradgate

Drama Society are pleased to invite you to join them for a

‘PERFECT WEDDING’ A Comedy by Robin Hawdon

CHILDREN and young people are being given an exciting new opportunity to get their voices heard in Hinckley & Bosworth.

Dates:19th, 20th & 21st April At Newtown Linford Village Hall

      

An exciting new voice for young people





  07957 282677    

Advertise in the Herald

Those aged between 11 and 19 years, who want to have their say about things that are important to them in the borough, are being invited to join a Voice of the Young People group. Group members will then be encouraged to get involved in a number of different projects. The first of these will provide young people with an opportunity to get a play training qualification. This will enable them to be part of the team that is planning the National Play Day on 1 August 2012. Other projects will include the formation of a research team to look at policies and strategies for the group and a marketing team to help with publicity. All members of the group will also receive a newsletter outlining what has been achieved and other ways to get involved. Any young people interested in joining the group should simply send an email to voice@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk to sign up. “This a great opportunity and a really exciting time for young people of the borough to get involved in all kinds of exciting projects,” said Cllr Mathew Hulbert, the council’s Children and Young People’s Champion. “They will have a voice and this new way of working should mean they make a real difference to young people of the borough and the communities in which they live.” For more information contact Rebecca Ball on 01455 255937.

Is your internet stuck in the slow-lane? What could you do with super-fast speeds?

Bagworth Forward Group Spring Bingo

19 March 7.30 at the Bagworth Community Centre. Prize Bingo with a Spring theme. Admission free. Great prizes and raffle prizes as well. Come along for a good evening.

Guthlaxton Big Band 29 March 7.30 at the Bagworth Community Centre. This evening is rapidly becoming a village tradition and is thoroughly enjoyed by the people who attend. As well as the Big Band, there will be other musical items to enjoy. Something for everyone. Come and see some very talented young people who may well become the stars of the future. Admission: £5 adults, £2.50 children.

Crafts Fayre & Mini Market

Saturday 14th April 9am-1pm Copt Oak Memorial Hall Refreshments and Tombola £7 per table/£10 per trestle table Admission 50p. Children free To book a table please contact Sue and Les - 01530 244229 Jan and David - 0116 267 4746

Broadband connectivity is emerging as a critical issue in Leicestershire. It is estimated that over 190,000 residents mainly in rural areas, will not receive improved broadband as part of BT’s national rollout programme. This includes 89,000 residential households and at least 3,800 businesses. Leicestershire County Council is working in partnership with public, private and voluntary sector organisations to identify and deliver the connectivity needs of communities, businesses, and public sector organisations. The County’s vision is to deliver super-fast broadband to all premises in Leicestershire by 2017, subject to securing necessary funding. Deployment of super-fast broadband will commence during 2013. As part of the programme it is critical we understand current issues and future broadband aspirations. We need your support. Please visit www.leics.gov. uk/broadband to complete the questionnaire and help the County Council to transform your internet experience. The survey will be open until the 30th April 2012 and a report will be published on the website in May. When you complete our survey please register to receive our quarterly newsletter. For more information please contact Matthew Kempson (broadband@leics. gov.uk, 0116 305 6179

You know it makes sense! The Herald is delivered to 4,000 local homes and businesses in Markfield, Thornton, Bagworth, Stanton and Field Head 11 Times a Year (no July issue) If You’d Like To Advertise Your Business in The Herald,

Contact Mike on 01530 244069. (Ad rates are on page 19)

Solomon Grundy Solomon Grundy, Born on Monday, Christened on Tuesday, Married on Wednesday, Took ill on Thursday, Worse on Friday, Died on Saturday, Buried on Sunday: This is the end Of Solomon Grundy.

Insanity might be inherited - you could get it from your kids.

13

Spirit Mind Body website is for sale After much deliberation Loren Goldenberg-Kosbab has decided to move on in her journey of life and has put her website up for sale If you’re interested in taking Spirit Mind Body Network to higher and better places, please do contact her! Loren explains a bit about the site: “It was created in 2006, my aim to provide a service to alternative and complementary therapy practitioners, beauty therapists, metaphysically, spiritually aware folk and like minded kindred spirits. “Trying to establish or maintain a business today can be rather arduous and time consuming, especially when you really should be channelling that energy in to your field. As a complementary therapist myself, I know just how difficult it is to find potential customers, and to be able to put yourself out there with out breaking the bank! “On the flip side of the coin, I know how difficult it is to find a therapist, teacher or information on a particular subject or course that I am interested in without delving through thousands of web pages, filled with so much you become dizzy! “So using the experience and skills I have gained over the years, I have brought to you a place which is specifically designed to be user friendly, fun, peaceful and most of all able to serve your internet needs.” www.spiritmindbody.co.uk - offers around £18,000 are invited.

Smile - it makes people wonder what you’re thinking.

14

Rangers Get Ready for Cup Final

Thornton St.Peter’s Church Spot Worshippers, and visitors, to St. Peters will notice as they approach the church that two of the beech trees, nearest to the building and which line the path to the church have been felled. This felling has been done on the advice of the church architect, and after consultation with the Diocesan authorities.

What a month it has been for the Markfield Rangers 1st Team.

They are through to the William Davis Trophy Final and have the Semi Finals of the Everards League Cup to look forward to as well. Despite their success, the team suffered defeat to Cropston Rangers in mid February, going down 5-3. They bounced back in superb style by beating Burton Sunday, from the league above, 4-1 in the Everards These two trees have League Cup Quarter Finals. undoubtedly contributed March saw the Rangers hit form much to the problems we have at the right time as they started the experienced with the shrinkage month with a 5-2 demolition of of the subsoil beneath the church Sileby Athletic in the William Davis tower. Trophy Quarter Final, before a 5-0 It is thought that these trees were planted at the beginning of the last victory against Birstall Stamford ‘A’ century, so they are surely beyond their ‘sell by’ date. The folk who the following week in the league. planted them may well have witnessed the lightning strike, recorded in the The Rangers met Cropston again Western Times of 11th January 1912, which ‘caused the stonework on the two weeks on the bounce, enacting battlements of the church to bulge, fused the lead on the roof and ripped St Michael’s Church their revenge in a 4-2 win in the the lightning conductor from the tower’. One wonders how the Thornton May Event William Davis Trophy Semi Final folk of a hundred years ago dealt with the consequences of that event. and a 1-0 victory in the league. By the time you read this article Easter will have arrived, Annual Church The Reserves had a fantastic win Meetings will be but a distant memory, and we will have settled down to the against Racing Club Hugglescote, ‘daily round and common task’ of work and school. But there are exciting winning 4-3 away from home. times ahead for St. Peters with the installation of the new heating system Unfortunately they struggled with in the Summer and the Friends have a full programme of events planned, with Raffle, Tombola player availability leading to defeats beginning with a concert in May. So watch this space! FC Charnwood and Cropston and Plantto Stall Martin Foster Rangers Reserves. Churchwarden The William Davis Trophy final, between Markfield Rangers Congregationaland Church Hall Reserves Birstall Stamford Wednesday from 11.00 amis -on1.30 pm 18th April at Loughborough Dynamo. Kick Off is at 7:15pm with entry £2 on the Dear Herald door. Please come and support the lads on what should prove to be a Due to the road works at Field Head, the bus service fantastic occasion for the club. 120 has not been coming through Markfield Court since

Ploughman’s Lunch

Saturday 12th May

LETTER

Crafts Fayre & Mini Market Tom Flowitt

February. It looks like it could be several weeks before all of the road is

reopened. But the residents have not been let down. We have had a brilliant taxi service, provided by Premier Cars, taking us back and forth to Leicester. Thank you Premier Cars - from the residents of Markfield Court Retirement Village. Refreshments and

Chairman

Saturday 14th April - 9am-1pm Copt Oak Memorial Hall St Michael’s Church

Mrs.Pauline Bott Warden

May Event Tombola £7 per table/£10 per trestle table Ploughman’s Admission 50p. Children free Lunch

with Raffle, Tombola To book a table please contact Why do people keep running over a piece of string a dozen Sue and Les - 01530 244229and Plant Stall times with their vacuum cleaner, then reach down, pick it up, Saturday 12th May Jan examine it, then put it down to give the vacuum oneand moreDavid - 0116 2674746 Congregational Church Hall chance? from 11.00 am - 1.30 pm

HAMLIN’S PLUMBING SERVICES All Types of Plumbing Work Undertaken No job too small Call Mick on 01530 245155 or 07813 065538 Qualified Local Plumber with Years of Experience

Churches Together in Markfield

Crafts Fayre & Mini Market 6-7pm

Saturday 14th April - 9am-1pm Wednesdays 25th April, 23rd May Copt Oak Memorial Hall at Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield Refreshments and Tombola £7 per table/£10 per trestle table Admission 50p. Children free To book a table please contact

Sue and Les 01530 244229 Contact Karen (249829) or -Rosemary (242844) Jan and David - 0116 2674746

There’s no substitute for a genuine lack of preparation.

15

Bagworth Bowls Club OPEN NIGHT

Anyone for bowls? I always think that it is good to have something to look forward to in the final weeks of winter, so I thought I would tell you of a date you might want to put in your diaries. It is April 23rd which is “New Members Open Night” at your local bowls club. Were you even aware that there is a flourishing bowls club in our village? Situated at the back of the Community Centre, Bagworth Bowls Club has been in existence for over 80 years and has enhanced its reputation on more than one front over the years. The green itself is now considered to be of county standard, the friendly atmosphere of the club is warm and welcoming, and the teas served at our Saturday afternoon matches are good enough to earn the highest praise from our visiting opponents! The game of bowls is not arduous in any way but it does provide exercise that can be beneficial to players whatever their level of fitness. And it is one of very few sports where individuals across the full range of abilities can compete against one another on, quite literally, a level playing field! Speaking from my own experience, I was able to stay level with one of the club’s County level players in a singles match in my first year; there was only one shot in it until half way through the match when he eventually had a bit of luck! Whether you are keen to progress to County level or just want to ‘send down a few woods’ on a summer’s evening, there is something for everyone. It can become addictive of course; remember that Sir Francis Drake kept the Spanish Armada waiting while he finished a match! Perhaps the most important thing in these harsh economic times is that the cost of playing bowls is one of the lowest of the many sports available. The main requirement is a set of bowls which can be expensive if bought new, but beginners are actually recommended to start with a set of second or even third hand woods, and these are always becoming available among the bowls community. Add a pair of grey and white trousers, a white top and a pair of smooth-soled shoes and you’re away! The first year’s membership fee is reduced for new members and match fees are around £3.50 per game. In case you are of the stereotypical opinion that bowls is only for rather elderly ladies and gentlemen, let me point out that we have members of all ages, from teenagers to ‘recycled’ teenagers in their eighties! We have families represented over 3 generations, married couples who actually talk to each other and the odd merry widow; it really is a game for everyone! And we are very excited as we approach our new season because we won promotion last year in our Triples league, and one of our younger members has been invited to an England trial this summer with an opportunity of becoming a full international! Talk about putting Bagworth on the map! If you have ever thought you might like to try this wonderful game of bowls, you would be more than welcome to come along to our club. And it will cost you nothing at all, as we shall provide all the kit you need whilst you decide if it’s for you. We have two certificated coaches among our ranks who would be delighted to give you the necessary pointers to get you started and other club members are always willing to give advice and assistance to make you feel at home. Hopefully we shall see you on the 23rd April; if you want any other information please contact me, Nigel Gray on 01530 231417 or email me at ngray146@ btinternet.com

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Advance Notice of fundraising event Churches Together In Markfield once again present Ratby Mid Band in concert at Markfield Community Centre on Saturday, 16th June at 7.30 pm. Following the sell-out success of last year’s event, the concert at Markfield Community Centre in June will raise funds for Christian Aid. Tickets (adults £6 and children £3) are available from representatives of all Markfield churches and the Community Centre (tel. 01530 242240).

Apathy is becoming a major problem - but who cares?

16 Appeal for refusal of agricultural building Heath Road , Bagworth. Residents may remember that this application was refused by the Planning Committee on the grounds that the applicant failed to demonstrate adequate agricultural justification and secondly that it represented a danger exiting the site on highway grounds. This was the 6th application on this site and we were pleased to get a refusal especially as work had commenced on the site without prior planning permission. An appeal hearing took place on the 22nd March at H.B.B.C. with both of us in attendance giving evidence on behalf of local residents as to why we felt that the appeal should be dismissed. We explained to the independent planning inspector that in our opinion, the appeal should not be allowed for the following reasons. 1. That the 85th percentile speeds along Heath Rd are between 53 & 56 mph. 2. That there have been 6 accidents along Heath Rd in the last 5 years (2 which were serious). 3. That the visibility splays exiting the site do not meet the required standard. 4. That there is a lack of substantive evidence of any agricultural operation being carried out on the site. 5. That the existing building was more than adequate and could be made larger to accommodate any increase in livestock. Should the appeal be allowed and we have no further input into it, then we have asked for strict conditions to be placed upon the site and the agent for the appellant has agreed to this. We wait for the outcome.

The Maynard, Bagworth After two consultation evenings, held at our request so that local residents could talk to representatives from Persimmon

Borough Councillors’ Report Chris Boothby & Ozzy O’Shea

Cllr Chris Boothby Tel 0116 238 8301 or 07704 345637 Email chris.boothby@hotmail.co.uk

Cllr Ozzy O’Shea Tel 0116 239 4336 or 07808 585825 Email ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

Homes, an application to build 50 dwellings together with 4 retail units and 10 affordable homes has been lodged with planning officers and awaiting validation. Once this is validated, we can discuss with our officers the design and layout scheme and the feedback from the consultations. We can disclose that two large retailers who operate convenience stores are interested in the possible larger retail unit on the site. We will keep you updated on developments.

agreed with this. A planning application must be applied for to remove the existing Church and we would welcome any feedback from residents who were not able to attend. Our contact details are at the bottom of the page.

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth We reported last time of a meeting held by the Archdeacon of Loughborough, together with members of the Parish Church Council, Bagworth and Thornton Parish Council and Chris representing the Borough Council to discuss the possible removal of the Church and the creation of a memorial garden. Chris asked for a public consultation evening and this was held at Bagworth WMC on 13th March. Ozzy O’shea spoke up for the residents saying that the Church was the cornerstone of the community and Bagworth deserved to have a proper place of worship rather than meetings held in the Community Centre , despite the pleas of poverty from the Leicestershire Diocese. Most of the public who attended the meeting

Speeding in Bagworth We have been concerned for a long time about the speeding issue, especially along station rd towards Ellistown and vice versa. Local children use the bus stop outside the Maynard Pub and are in constant danger of speeding drivers. The last time a survey was carried out; an incredible 80% of offenders lived in the village. Ozzy, through his police contacts in the road safety team at County Hall arranged a further survey rather than waiting for Leicestershire County Council to act or to do

anything. Vehicle activated signs were placed on lamp posts on station Rd. The average speed of vehicles passing the Maynard from the direction of Ellistown was 48 mph. The average speed of traffic down the hill from the direction of the Community Centre was 39 mph. We will be working with the police and Parish Council to put pressure on the County Council to make this road safer for residents. We all have children so for their sakes - please slow down! And Finally ...

Community Forum Budget 2012 Leicestershire County Council has made funds available to 25 Community Forums across the county and the Markfield , Ratby , Groby , Thornton and Bagworth Forum has been allocated another £ 12’500 which is up for grabs. Local groups need to be able to deliver their project by March 2013 and the deadline for applications is the 23rd May 2012. Chris has just been appointed vice-chair of our forum and is keen to help any local organization who may wish to submit an application. Please do not let this funding go elsewhere as there are many area’s in Thornton & Bagworth that could use extra funding. Regards

Chris & Ozzy

working together for you.

Volunteers urgently needed As a registered charity the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation relies on its volunteer support and is currently looking for more volunteers to offer support, care and friendship to a wide variety of people. Alan Norman, Chief Executive of the Foundation, said “The Foundation has several volunteering opportunities, including Assisting at Ulverscroft Manor, working in the Tea Rooms or Charity Shop and Befriending to name just a few. The Foundation understands that people have other commitments and therefore is grateful for any support given.” For more information, telephone 01530 244914 or email admin@shuttlewood-clarke.org.

The advantage of being a pessimist is that all your surprises are pleasant.

17 Leicester Host Lions Club invite everyone to a

Bluebell Walk

Come and walk among the glorious bluebells in a woodland setting. All in the beautiful gardens at: 240 Markfield Lane, Markfield

Sunday 29th April 2012

11.00am till 3.30 pm Car Parking in grounds Various refreshments all day With books and paintings for sale All Proceeds In Aid Of Charities ADMISSION Adults £2.00 at the gate Children £1.00 (Under 5 free)

The Bulls Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Garden & Pub Games etc. The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield. T: 01530 242 496 Easter Sunday 8th April: Karaoke with MARK Sat 28th April: King of the Road KARAOKE ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN The Bricklayers Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays www.bricklayersarms.net

Surprise Surprise Returns To ITV We all know people who would like a surprise treat so this is your chance to make that dream come true. Do you want to treat someone to the surprise of a lifetime? Maybe someone who’s lost touch with a family member whom they’d love to be reunited with? Maybe it’s a teacher, superstar student, soldier or hero in the emergency services who deserves a special reward? Or perhaps it’s an unusual marriage proposal your fiancé will never forget? No surprise is too big or too small! Holly Willoughby (pictured) will be surprising the nation and ITV want you to be part of it! So if you’d like to nominate someone special in your community or you want to surprise a family member or friend - Contact ITV now: surprisesurprise@itv.com You’re about to change someone’s life forever. What are you waiting for?

The Club, Thornton Main Street. T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members Sat 7th April: The Intents Sat 14th April: Mick Ridgway’s Mojo Hand Band Sat 21st April: S Punk 7 - Punk Rock Band Sat 28th April: The Boneyard Blues Band Sat 12th May: The Cheeze Sat 26th May: Local Band, First Time @ The Club - Punk And Disorderly ALL SKY SPORTS AND ESPN www.myspace.com/thorntonclub Bagworth Working Men’s Club, Station Road, Bagworth. Tel. 01530 230205 New members Welcome 2012 membership now due. Live entertainment – last Saturday of the month Andy’s charity quiz – last Friday of the month £1.50 each Sequence Dance - Sunday 8th Page advert: 95 x 65mm nights 8pm £1 admission. Tea Dance - Wednesday 2-4 pm

Proceeds for

Lupus UK To raise awareness

£1 admission Saturday 7th April: WMC Dance - £1 admission Friday 11th May: Charity Dance - £2.50 admission Saturday 19th May: WMC Dance - £1 admission For further details, tel: 01530 230205 The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tribute Nights/£2 Entry after 7pm. Fri 6th April: MOTOWN SOUL Fri 20th April: THE SUPREMES Fri 4th May: ROBBIE WILLIAMS Quiz Nite: 2nd Tues of Month (See Advert on page 7) The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sats 7th April, 21st April & 5th May with ’King of the Road’ Sat 14th April: KRISIS - See Ad Page 4 ) Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Fri 13th April: Sue C Sat 14th April: Booze Brothers Sun 15th April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 20th April: Robbie Williams Tribute +Lauren Rose supporting act Sat 21st April: Limited Edition Sun 22nd April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 27th April: Steve Del Rio +The Deltas Sat 28th April: Rachel Ball Sun 29th April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 4th May: Mikala Sat 5th May: Jolieanna Sun 6th May: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 11th May: Carla Jones Sat 12th May: T.B.A. Sun 13th May: Super Sunday ‘50’

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Never argue with a fool - people might not be able to tell the difference.

18

Extracts from Stanton under Bardon Parish Council Minutes

Cross Hills Baptist Church Serving the villages of Thornton & Bagworth plus the surrounding area

The following topics were among the items discussed at the meeting of Stanton-under-Bardon Parish Council, held on Tuesday 6th March 2012 at The Youth Club, Stanton under Bardon. Please note that this information is based upon the unapproved minutes, and may be subject to alteration or correction.

COMMUNITY POLICE COMMENTS No crime to report.

COUNTY COUNCILLOR’S REPORT Council tax has been frozen for the next 4 years. Concessionary travel will now be the same as the national scheme and free travel will be from 9.30 onwards. With regard to the two planning applications in the village they are going before the planning committee in May. As part of the Development framework 30 houses are needed in the village. If 261 Main Street was to go through they would not have to build a community centre or give anything to Local Schools as per the Section 106 agreement. At Whitegates stables there is application for 4 pitch extension to the site.

QUESTIONS TO THE CHAIR Some concerns were raised by Parishioners as to what would happen to the Land at 261 Main Street if the other planning application was approved, as it is privately owned the Parish Council would have no say in this. A question was asked if there was a vote from the Village to see what their preferred option was before the Parish council put in the application. The chairman confirmed that a questionnaire had been sent out previously and this was the preferred site, the minutes and the results showing this can be viewed. The application at 261 Main Street would not provide a village hall. The Parish Council did ask for this when originally shown the plans but it was confirmed that this would not be provided, hence the application done by the Parish Council which would provide more benefits for the village.

CLERK’S REPORT Parish Planning Application Statement addressing

Concerns raised. Road Safety The Junction has been designed in accordance with the appropriate standards, including road safety standards. Leicestershire County Council is being formally consulted on the junction and we are awaiting their comments. A safety audit of the junction will be undertaken and will look at appropriate provision for pedestrian crossing points.

Local Amenities Leicestershire County Council/ local Primary Care Trust are being consulted on the proposals and will identify any issues with capacity at the school or local GP Surgery. The applicant will respond to any request for any improvements to local services once they have been received.

Drainage The Environment Agency has confirmed that the foul drainage generated by the proposed development can be accommodated at the Wanlip Sewage Treatment Works, and have approved the storm water balancing proposals from a flood risk perspective. Severn Trent Water has indicated that the foul water drainage proposals (i.e. in connection to the Main Street foul sewer) are acceptable.

Community Centre parking The applicants are seeking to provide sufficient parking to avoid parking on Main Street, and it is considered that 17 spaces is a reasonable number. The community centre is intended to serve the village, and moving it to a more central location will enable more people to walk to the facility rather than use their car.

Easter Sunday Service, 8th April We will be celebrating this wonderful time of year, the resurrection of our Saviour Jesus Christ, at our Family Easter service at 10.30am. Why not come and join us this year and bring your friends and family to celebrate the true meaning of Easter. Full details of our other services with dates and times are in the Church Service Information section in this magazine.

Spring Fayre, Advance Notice This will be on Saturday 26th May at Bagworth Community Centre from 10am to 1pm Stalls and games, Raffle, refreshments. Entrance free. More information will be available next month.

Dates for your Diary This year’s Awesome Holiday Club, for children up to age 11, will be on the mornings of Monday 6th, Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th August. Please keep the dates free and we look forward to seeing the children for fun, games, bible stories, crafts and lots more. We are a very friendly church and we serve tea and coffee after our services giving the opportunity for friendship and fellowship together. We are always here for the community’s spiritual needs and our Pastor’s contact details are below.

Contact Numbers Pastor - Garry Kelly: 07816 616189 Secretary - Lynda Kelly: 07910 440243 Treasurer - Glynis Straw: 01530 230272 Parish Nurse - Vera Harding: 01530 230557

Glynis Straw

Treasurer - on behalf of the Cross Hills Church family

Further possible Development (Easement) The easement is required for a pipe linking the lower residential properties to the balancing pond. We needed to take into account the contours of the site and this location is the most suitable in that respect. It could be possible to put an allotment over the easement, although access to the pipe could be required at any time. Built structures such as sheds could not be placed over the easement.

If Sondra Locke married Eliot Ness, then divorced him to marry Herman Munster, she’d become Sondra Locke Ness Munster.

If you keep your feet firmly on the ground, you’ll have trouble putting on your pants.

19

Improvements to Stanton Recreation Ground Stanton under Bardon Parish Council would like to thank and acknowledge the support of the Hinckley and Bosworth Community Initiative Fund which provided funding in the sum of £11,067.00 towards new play equipment and protective fencing on the Recreation ground.

It has made a vast improvement to the play facilities available and has been greatly received by the Children and the Parishioners in the village. Pictured is Cllr Bill Crooks, the council’s Executive Member for Rural Affairs (left) presenting the plaque to Stuart Bridges Chairman of the Parish Council.

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HERALD FILM REVIEW - from Tom Flowitt

The Hunger Games

(12A) Starring: Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson 142 Minutes

Four young twenty somethings based in London’s Camden Town who just happen to be witches!

Based on the bestselling novels by Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games is set in a post apocalyptic North America called Panem, where one wealthy city rules over twelve impoverished Districts. Every year two youngsters of each District are put forward into The Hunger Games, a battle to the death where only one can be victorious. The books are aim ed at young adults and the film follows suit by trying to tap into the Twilight crowd. This isn’t anything like Twilight however, which is never a bad thing, so don’t go and see it based on this assumption. The post apocalyptic world created is a real achievement and instantly sucks you in. It has a very unique and fresh feel to it as it bravely avoids the usual clichéd sci-fi take on the future. The contrast between the rich and poor is intriguing but unfortunately isn’t explored further as the film progresses. So good is the world created, that when the action does start the film becomes far less interesting. This is mainly because the action itself is poor and incredibly watered down to the point of being boring. The film really is one of two halves as the latter focuses primarily on action and doesn’t continue the good work made at the start. Most of the violence happens off camera so we never actually see any of the kills. It is done cleverly to ensure that the film remains suitable for its audience. It is however the primary reason why the action often feels half hearted. The camera work, although too frantic towards the end making it hard to focus, helps create an experience of its own. You are put into the shoes of the characters as the hand camera style allows you to experience the same fear and anxiety they do, and feel part of extreme situation they find themselves in. Overall: Starts fantastically but struggles to keep it going throughout. If you see it you will like it, you just won’t love it. 3 Stars

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A man’s idea of helping with the housework is to lift his leg so you can vacuum.

20

County Councillor’s Report from David Sprason Review of Bus Services The County Council recently set up a scrutiny review panel looking at the bus coverage policy for Leicestershire and to consult on any proposed changes. The panel concluded that the existing policy is not appropriate or sustainable particularly in a time of financial constraint. The proposed new policy will have an impact on the current network in that regular scheduled contracted bus services that currently operate in some areas and which are under-used will have their frequency reduced or, in some cases, cease. Alternative methods of transport will be explored with local communities and there will be opportunities for local community groups to take responsibility for their localities and to work with the Council’s Environment and Transport Department to develop locally tailored cost effective solutions. The recommendations have no impact on this area; the BagworthThornton-Botcheston-Groby 26 Service continues every hour; the Botcheston D4 continues; the Desford 153/159 every half an hour and hour continue; the MarkfieldField Head-Groby 29/29A service continues every half an hour; the Stanton under Bardon- Markfield 120 service continues and the Medibus from Thornton and Stanton under Bardon continues. The special shopper and community buses that run from the villages will continue to run as previously. The panel would be happy to receive any feedback regarding their proposals or any other comments you may have. The consultation will commence on 16th April and conclude on 8th July 2012.

Crown Crest HGV movements Some of you may have picked up from the minutes of Markfield Parish Council that I have been keeping them updated on the former Desford Tubes site. In August 2010 HBBC planning committee considered an application from Crown Crest to use the site for storage and distribution. The report by the planning officer did not include a recommendation regarding the routing of traffic to and from the site. The County Council highways authority advice was that the existing HGV route as previously used and identified in the Crown Crest transport assessment was acceptable and supported.

I, along with the Desford local member Paul Bessant, spoke to the planning committee supporting the routing of vehicles from the site in line with the transport assessment requesting that the operating hours and vehicle movements should be limited in the planning conditions. At the meeting two members raised concern with regard to the inclusion of Kirby Muxloe in the travel plan, and it was agreed a condition should be imposed requiring a routing plan which should direct traffic away from Kirby Muxloe. In the HBBC planning permission it specified that the recommended route for HGVs was via Botcheston Road and Markfield Lane. This decision was taken against all the evidence presented. The decision has added extra traffic movements through Botcheston and Markfield, added to the cost for Crown Crest, added to the County Council’s carbon footprint and added an extra 25 miles for HGVs. So we have been working since 1st September 2010 to challenge the decision by looking at its legality and equality. We have held public meetings supported by Desford Parish Council and we are raising a petition to have the condition removed from the planning permission. I am therefore delighted to say that this action has had an impact and a recent meeting with senior planning officers and Crown Crest has resulted in an application being submitted to have the condition removed. This will obviously have to go back to the planning committee for approval but we believe the members will agree with us and see the unfairness of the condition. We no doubt will again have objections from Kirby Muxloe but I would argue that although we are not happy about having industry at this location we are not against business. We however do believe that the pain should be shared equally and equitably by all communities with no favours given.

to reassure residents that this is not the case. The County Council is maintaining the £525,000 level of funding for PCSOs in 2012/13, then reducing it in 2013/14 to £435,000 in 2014/15 the full amount of £435,000 will be removed as the Police Authority will have been abolished. This will allow the newly appointed Police Commissioner to determine their own priorities and how they intend to fund those priorities. An invitation to join a petition such as this without the full presentation of the facts speaks volumes about the lack of integrity of a local political party. The opposition party at County Hall did move an amendment to the County Council budget but this was lost; the opposition party also planned to withdraw the £525,000 funding for PCSOs by 2015/16. In the media report this essential fact was missing from the statement - an omission on this scale is nothing short of deliberate deception. It is also worth noting that the local political party are refusing to engage in the election of a Police Commissioner for Leicestershire. You will all appreciate there is a need for factual accuracy before people rush to sign a petition, that to me is a deliberate falsification of the facts given the information set out above.

County supports armed services A pledge to support the armed forces has been signed by the Chairman of Leicestershire County Council, Jackie Dickinson. The Armed Forces Community

Police Community Support Officers Funding I would like to clarify the position regarding the County Council funding of Police Community Support Officers. The recent story printed in the local media should be seen as total fabrication of the truth. The story and petition has been generated by a local political party and is factually incorrect. This scaremongering campaign is clearly meant to spread fear amongst the most vulnerable in our society. This is why I would like

The more you complain, the longer God makes you live.

Covenant is a statement of support between the community in Leicestershire and its local armed forces. The purpose of the community covenant is to encourage support for the servicemen and women living in Leicestershire and to recognise and remember the sacrifices they have made. It encourages everyone within a community to offer support to the local Armed Forces community, making it easier for service personnel, families and veterans to receive help from the Ministry of Defence and other charitable and voluntary sector groups. The covenant will build on the strong connections already demonstrated between the County Council and the Armed Forces, such as the Council’s war memorial project and the Council-led armed forces dinner. The County Council has nominated a County Councillor as the Council’s Lead Member for the Armed Forces, ensuring that military involvement is embedded at the highest levels within the Council. The first incumbent for the position will be LT Peter Roffey CC.

21

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The plant swap, which is run by volunteers from Friends of Hollycroft Park as part of RHS National Gardening Week, will take place on Saturday 21 April from 10.30am until 12.30pm near the bandstand in Hollycroft Park, Hinckley. Anyone who wishes to take part is invited to come along with any plants, cuttings or seedlings from their own garden which they wish to swap with other people. There is no charge to take part in the swap, but people will be asked to make a donation to the park. Even people without plants to swap are welcome to take part by simply making a donation to the park in return for their plants. Friends of Hollycroft Park volunteer, Sue Neal said: “It’s a great opportunity to get hold of new plants for your garden without it costing the earth. I would urge anyone interested to get planting seeds and taking cuttings as soon as possible! I look forward to seeing as many people as possible there”. Pre booking is not required and everyone is welcome. For more information contact Sue Neal 01455 234371 or Margaret McFadden 07828 145169 or email gardening@hollycroftpark.co.uk

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The sooner you fall behind, the more time you’ll have to catch up.

22

What’s been happening at Markfield Community Centre Sainsbury’s Sport Relief – Markfield Magic Mile During the early morning of Sunday 25th March, I found myself with the “press ganged” help of Declan, battling the early morning breeze and cold to mark out the Magic Markfield Mile course around the Community Centre playing fields, as well as putting up start and finish banners that decided to act with a mind of their own, just like the sails of the Pirate’s of the Caribbean ship the Black Pearl. Having finally battened down the hatches and with the help of our intrepid volunteers we waited with some trepidation for the entrants to arrive. As this was our first ever Sport Relief event we just did not know just how many people would turn up on the day and how the day would go. But we shouldn’t have worried as by the time the first mile started at 12.30pm the weather was superb and just right for a run, jog or walk around the Markfield Magic Mile. I have to say that we were delighted with the turn out. 111 people entered the event completing courses that ranged from one mile, three miles and for the more fit and determined “runners”, a six mile arduous run over twenty four laps of the course. It was really nice to see families and people of all ages taking part including their pet dogs. The ages ranged form babes in push chairs, young children, right through to pensioners with their families, friends and spectators urging them on to the finish. The event was launched by our very own Deputy Mayor Cllr. Martin Cartwight and his wife Sue who had the pleasure of starting each race as Martin twice changed from his formal attire into running gear and, with his medal of office, valiantly ran two mile races totalling 8 laps of the course. He even had enough strength left to challenge our local beat bobby Justin Hayes to a lap around the course – it ended in a honourable draw as they both staggered across the finishing line line abreast. There were many memorable highlights on the day of which these are just a few. First across the finishing line for the mile event was villager Ethan aged ten, who dashed around the course in less than seven minutes – perhaps he is preparing himself for the 2018 Olympics. Dawn the Centre manager was reluctantly cajoled into doing a magic mile having been surreptitiously sponsored to

complete it without stopping for a cigarette - well she did and well done. Even Postman Pat completed the course without the aid of his post office van and cat. One of the many heroes of the day was a young lady from Ravenstone who, despite being rather under the weather, managed to drag herself around the six mile course urged on by her Mum. Despite being the final person to cross the finishing line she managed to secure £250 in sponsorship and the reward of a hard earned pint. Altogether with entrance fees, sponsorship and donations we expect the event to raise over £800. Everyone who entered received a Sport Relief medal presented by the Deputy Mayor and they all thoroughly deserved it. We are still totting up exactly how much money we raised for Sport Relief on the day and whatever we raised will help towards the millions Sport Relief made over the week. Overall it was a fantastic and enjoyable day and we are determined to make the next one bigger and better. Many thanks to all of our volunteers who helped out on the day and of course those who took part in the races and their families, friends and spectators who came along to give their support.

Diamond Jubilee The village Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations on Sunday, 3rd June are fast approaching and planning is getting frantic now. I am really delighted to tell you that we have secured a RAF Memorial Flight Spitfire to fly over the Centre at some point in the afternoon. The Ratby Brass Band will be playing and the Bakanalia Morris Dancing Team will be performing. There will also be stalls, kiddy rides, displays, food outlets as well as fun and games on the day. We are currently working on the programme for the day and this should, fingers crossed, be available for the next edition of the Herald. If you require a stall at the event you can book one in advance the cost will be £10 for an indoor stall and £5 for an outdoor stall – these need to be booked by 21st May. During the afternoon we will be putting on children’s Diamond Jubilee “street party”. Because of problems relating to children’s individual dietary needs, allergies and food hygiene laws, we have decided to ask parents/guardians to bring their own food and drinks for their children. So, use your imagination and start thinking about what you can

bring along for your children and to perhaps to share with others such as jelly, sandwiches and cakes. To help us out with seating arrangements we ask that you pre-book your children’s places beforehand. Dependent on what funding or sponsorship we can scrounge, there may be a small charge for each child attending the “street party” so that we can provide party hats, bunting and flags etc. The evening Celebration Family Disco and Firework display will start at 7.30pm and tickets will cost £2.50p for adults and £1.50p for children, with all proceeds from the ticket sales going to Cancer Research. Sorry but you MUST purchase your tickets in advance as, from experience from the Golden Jubilee, there will not be any left on the night. So, please book early to avoid disappointment

Christening Celebration

On Sunday 4th March the Arkley family of Markfield celebrated the Christening of their son Brendan. Many congratulations and our best wishes for your future Brendan from all at the Centre.

Community Forum As you will see from the above dates we will be hosting the next

EVENING ALL: Deputy Mayor, Martin Cartwright, with PC Justin Hayes at end of their lap meeting of the Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum at the Centre on the evening of 13th June. The Community Forum gives you an opportunity to hear what is being planned by the “powers that be” and to have your voice about what is going on in the area. Anyone can come along and have a say so please feel free to attend. Also the Community Forum has a pot of £12,500 cash to fund community projects in this area. You can apply for funding for a community project by 23rd May. Visit www.leicestershireforums.org for more information.

Some Dates for your diary 9th May – National Blood Service 3rd June - Village Diamond Jubilee Celebration and evening disco and firework display 13th June – LeicestershireCounty Council Community Forum 16th June – Christian Aid Brass band Concert 24th June – Guild Hall Antiques Fair 23rd to 27th July - Summer Play Scheme 6th August to 10th August Summer Play Scheme Don’t forget you can view all the Centre of the news and activities on our website at www. markfieldcommunitycentre.com For booking and enquiries please contact Markfield Community and Sports Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield LE67 9ST or ring 01530 242240 www.markfieldcommunitycentre.com

Ron Grantham

Markfield Community Association

If you put a small value upon yourself, you can be sure that the world will not raise your price.

23

Saving Energy with Bagworth W.I. The Bagworth WI Invited the Rural Community Council (RCC) to give a presentation and lead a discussion about the Best Energy Deals, a topic very much in the news at the moment. It was an open meeting on March 22nd at the Bagworth Community Centre. Mr John Preston from the RCC gave useful tips for energy saving in the home and possible savings on energy deals of up to £140 a year. The attendance at the meeting was small but it was an interesting and useful evening. Our thanks go to the RCC and the members of the Bagworth WI who made this evening possible. We would also like to thank the RCC for providing the 500 leaflets which were delivered to every house in Bagworth by WI members. Anyone who would like more information about the presentation and the energy deals you can contact the RCC on 01162689706. If you would like more information about the Bagworth WI please contact Maureen Barber on 01530 231295.

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Cycling courses for adults

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The courses are held over five two-hour sessions (daytime or evening) at various venues around the county between April and September. Courses are for adults over 16 and are with qualified instructors. Bikes (and helmets) are available to borrow, subject to availability. Courses will be taking place as follows: Hollycroft Park tennis courts, Shakespeare Drive, Hinckley. Monday evenings (6pm to 8pm) on: 16, 23, 30 April and 7 & 14 May (please note 7 May is a bank holiday) Radford Park, Barwell. Saturday mornings (10am to 12noon) on 4, 11, 18, 25 August & 1 September. To book a place or to find out about other courses around the county visit www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk, call 0116 305 5289 or email: choosehowyoumove@leics.gov.uk.

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24

Local Church Service Information

Without Walls Christian Fellowship, 135 Main St Stanton Under Bardon Sunday April 8th - Easter Sunday Family meeting at 10am Sunday April 15th Meeting at 10am with junior church provided Sunday April 22nd Meeting at 10am with junior church provided Tuesday April 24th Bible school at 7pm

Sunday 6th May 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 13th May 10.30am Morning Service with the Lord’s Supper There is a Sunday Club in our hall for children & young people during the Morning Service. For further details, our contact list is in the Cross Hills News section of this magazine.

Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield

Easter Sunday 8th April 9.00am Morning Breakfast 10.30am Morning Communion Service 6.00pm No Evening Service

Sunday April 29th Family meeting at 4pm (Note different time) with CAFE 4U Sunday May 6th Meeting at 10am with junior church provided Sunday May 13th Meeting at 10am with junior church provided, International theme with Church lunch after, all welcome Sunday May 20th Meeting at 10am with junior church provided Sunday May 27th Family meeting at 4pm with CAFE 4U Sunday May 29th Bible school at 7pm.

Markfield Congregational Church Sunday 15 April 10.30am Churches Together in Markfield United Service in Our Church Sunday 22 April 10.15am Praise & Worship Service with Alan Sankey and friends from St David’s Coalville in Our Church Sunday 29 April 10.15am Worship with Sunday Club in Church Hall Sunday 6 May 10.15am Morning Worship in Church Hall followed by Communion Sunday 13 May 10.15am SUNDAY CLUB DAY in Our Church

Cross Hills Baptist Church, between Bagworth & Thornton

Sunday 15th April 10.30am United Service at Congregational Church 6.00pm Evening Service Sunday 22nd April 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Taizé Style Service Sunday 29th April 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Evening Communion Service Sunday 6th May 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Taizé Style Service Sunday 13th May - Christian Aid Week Begins 10.30am Morning Communion Service 4.00pm Café Church Service Sunday 20th May 10.30am United Service at Methodist Church 6.00pm Evening Communion Service Pentecost Sunday 27th May 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Evening Service

St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Markfield

10:15-11.30am Sunday Club for Children in the Congregational Hall on the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays, term time All Age Service in Church on the 2nd Sunday each month. Sunday 8th April Easter Day 6.10 am Easter Sunrise Service at Hill Hole 10.30 am All Age Easter Service 6.00 pm Holy CommunIon

Easter Sunday 8th April 10.30am Family Service

Sunday 15th April 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield Service at the Congregational Church 6.00 pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 15th April 10.30am Morning Service

Friday 20th April 8.00 pm Iona Style Service

Sunday 22nd April 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 22nd April 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 29th April 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 29th April 6.00 pm Joint Service with St Peter’s, Copt Oak

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth

Sunday 6th May 10.30 am Holy Communion

Please note: Services will be at Bagworth Community Centre Sunday 6th May 9.00 am Holy Communion

Sunday 13th May 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion Thursday 17th May 7.30 pm Ascension Day Communion Friday 18th May 8.00 pm Taizé Style Service Sunday 20th May 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield at Trinity Methodist Church 6.00pm Evening Prayer Sunday 27th May 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00 pm Evening Prayer

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon Easter Sunday 8th April 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 15th April 10.30 am “Something Different” Sunday 22nd April 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 29th April 10.30 am Joint Service Sunday 6th May 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 13th May 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 20th May 10.30 am “Something Different” Sunday 27th May 10.30 am Holy Communion

St Peter’s Church, Thornton Easter Sunday 8th April 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 15th April 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 22nd April 10.30 am Family Service Sunday 29th April 10.30 am Joint Service at St Mary’s, Stanton under Bardon Sunday 6th May 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 13th May 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 20th May 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 27th May 10.30 am All Age Service

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak Easter Sunday 8th April 6.00 pm Holy Communion Sunday 15th April 3.00 pm Praise Service Sunday 22nd April 6.00 pm Holy Communion Sunday 29th April 6.00 pm Joint Service at St Michael’s, Markfield Sunday 6th May 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 13th May 9.15 am Holy Communion Sunday 20th May 3.00 pm Praise Service Sunday 27th May 6.00 pm Holy Communion

LETTER Dear Herald

May I through your pages say ‘Thank you very much’ to the kind lady who, on Friday 10th February, kindly helped my husband to pay for our fish and chip lunch. My husband had left home without sufficient cash for his purchase. I have, as a member of Bradgate Lions Club, put the amount into our charity account. Very many thanks once again.

Janice Jones

Secretary, Bradgate Lions Club (This letter should have appeared in last month’s issue, but was left out by mistake.)

Children ‘too sleepy for school’

Around 75% of children sleep so little at night that they cannot concentrate in class, according to a Travelodge study of 2,000 children. They claim children aged 6-15 should sleep for between 9 and 12 hours per night, but 74% get less than 7 hours - below the recommended amount for adults. Teachers blame parents for letting children keep computer games, mobile phones and TVs in their bedroom.

The secret of success is to do the common things uncommonly well.

25

THORNTON W.I. THURSDAY 12th APRIL 7.30 p.m. at THORNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE

Gardens of the Isles of Scilly A Talk & Slide Show by Stuart Dixon.

“And now for something completely different....!” is a well known catchphrase which we might adopt as our motto as, at Thornton WI, we’re always ready to try to expand our horizons. We like to further our knowledge and our skills so we try to vary the topics covered by our speakers. We were delighted to see Ady Dayman, who came to speak to us at Christmas –time, on a TV news programme, describing the flower arrangements he’d organised for the Queen’s recent visit to Leicester Cathedral as part of her Jubilee Tour. We understand that he was invited to the Celebration Lunch with Her Majesty & the Duchess of Cambridge. It’s doubtful that chillies, (Ady’s Speciality!), were featured on the menu but, thanks to him, chilli seeds are germinating all over Thornton! Let’s hope they all come into fruition in the summer to spice up our cooking! Our March speaker, Debbie Bass, had us hunting in cupboards to find cakestands for our members’ competition. Of all shapes, sizes and designs, many appeared on the competition table – some were frequently used – others rarely saw the light of day. After we’d listened to Debbie’s account of her growing business, “Sugar and Ice”, and watched her competently ice and decorate a large cake and several cup-cakes – we all promised ourselves that we’d go home and fill our cake-stands with tempting, beautifully-decorated delicacies for afternoon tea. In April we anticipate with pleasure a slide-show and talk on “The Gardens of the Isles of Scilly” to be given by Stuart Dixon. The Isles of Scilly are home to the luscious, sub-tropical, Tresco Abbey Gardens, where more than 20,000 exotic plants meet in one extraordinary set of gardens where there are more than three hundred flowers in bloom at any time of year. The Isles benefit from more hours of sunshine and milder winters than the mainland. Thus, the gardens are able to support a range of exotic plants from more than 80 locations across the globe - ranging from Brazil to New Zealand and Burma to South Africa. Tresco Abbey Gardens defy all the preconceptions regarding what can and cannot be grown in rain-soaked, frost-cursed Britain and are described as “a perennial Kew without the glass” hosting 20,000 plants. Mr. Dixon is a highly-recommended speaker and we are sure that the slides he shows will remind us how beautiful Nature is as we travel with him, metaphorically, to the Isles which all who have visited describe as “tranquil” and “magical”. There will be refreshments and an EASTER RAFFLE. The MEMBERS’ COMPETITION is for a SEASCAPE of any variety. Do you love flowers? Are you a keen gardener? Would you just like to spend an evening in good company? WHY NOT COME ALONG TO OUR MEETING? YOU WILL BE MADE VERY WELCOME. Visitors’ Fee £2.

Muriel Walker

Look What’s On At The Palace, Ibstock 57 High Street, Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6LH • Tel: 01530 267303

~ Forthcoming Events ~ Friday, 6th April - Charity Organ Concert. Tickets: £6.00 from Halls, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460 or Mr Martin, Tel: 01455 290145 or Mr Lines, Tel: 01530 457274 Saturday, 7th April - The Everly Brothers and Friends Tribute Show. A tribute show to The Everly Brothers plus special guests tributes to Hank Marvin, Dusty Springfield and Billy Fury. Performance start time will be 8pm. Tickets: £10.00 Full Price & £8.00 Concessions from Halls, High Street, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460. Friday 13th April - ‘Simple Farmhouse Cookery’ - A cookery demonstration based on delicious, simple farmhouse recipes, using British seasonal produce. Also includes a lively and enjoyable talk on farming today. Places limited so please book early - tickets £5, available from Halls Electrical on (01530) 260460. Event starts at 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm. Friday, 20th April - Film Night – ‘Jane Eyre’ (PG). After a bleak childhood, Jane Eyre goes out into the world to become a governess. As she lives happily in her new position at Thornfield Hall, she meets the dark, cold, and abrupt master of the house, Mr. Rochester. Jane and her employer grow close in friendship and she soon finds herself falling in love with him. Happiness seems to have found Jane at last, but could Mr. Rochester’s terrible secret be about to destroy it forever? Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm. Film starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £4.00/£3.00 from Halls, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460. Friday, 27th April – Coalville Drama Group presents ‘TV HEAVEN! A NIGHT OF CLASSIC COMEDY’. “A fantastic evening of laughter

and music with the award winning Coalville Drama Group, performing their renowned re-enactments of classic TV comedy sketches. Including such greats as ‘Andre Previn meets Morecambe and Wise’ and ‘Four Candles’ by the Two Ronnies, plus many more! Their performances of this show at Christmas all sold out and was so well received, that they have now decided to bring it to The Palace”. Performance starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £6 available by calling 024 7637 4176 or 07918 120101. Also available from Ashby Tourist office, North St. Ashby, Hermitage FM Coffee Lounge on Hotel St. Coalville, (The credit/debit card hotline is 01530 411767) or from Halls of Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460. Saturday, 28th April - Coalville Drama Group presents ‘TV HEAVEN! A NIGHT OF CLASSIC COMEDY’. See details above Friday, 4th May - Charity Organ Concert. Tickets: £6.00 from Halls, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460 or Mr Martin, Tel: 01455 290145 or Mr Lines, Tel: 01530 457274 Friday,11th May - Film Night – ‘The Iron Lady’ (12A) – Winner of 2 Oscars! A look at the life of Margaret Thatcher, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, with a focus on the price she paid for power. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm. Film starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £4.00/£3.00 from Halls, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460.

Ambition never gets anywhere until it forms a partnership with work.

26 Stress-busting workout

Ladies Fashion Show and Shopping Evening

Young people invited to try box-fitness

Friday 18th May at 7.30pm at Thomas Estley College, Station Road, Broughton Astley

ANY young people in Hinckley & Bosworth who have been inspired by the legendary “Rocky” films can try their own hands at boxing training, thanks to Sport England’s Olympic Legacy programme Sportivate. Box-Fitness comes to Markfield this month with a new six week programme, designed specifically for young people aged between 14 and 25 years. With Box-Fit, young people can enjoy the full benefits of boxing training, including boxing circuits, and no experience is necessary. For only £1.50 per class they can try this non-contact, stress-busting workout. Sessions are led by ex professional boxer and Box-Fit instructor Kelton Mckenzie and start on Saturday 14 April (from 4pm to 5pm) at Markfield Community Sports Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield. For further information about the sessions, can contact Kelton on box4health@live.co.uk or via the website www.boxercise4health.org/ Alternatively contact Markfield Community Centre on (01530) 242240. The sessions are funded by Sport England’s Olympic Legacy programme Sportivate, which targets 14 to 25 year olds who aren’t currently taking part in sport and gives them the opportunity to join a sports club and continue in the sport at the end of the eight week programme.

Word Search Puzzle

If you’ve enjoyed reading this issue of The Herald, please pass it on to a friend or relative when you’ve finished with it. It’s good to share! Thanks.

Friends of Chernobyl’s Children will be holding their 3nd annual ladies fashion show and shopping evening in Broughton Astley on Friday 18th May. Garments from a wide variety of major High Street retailers will be on offer at hugely discounted prices and there will be items to suit all tastes and sizes ranging from size 8 – 22, with an opportunity to try before you buy. All purchases are covered by a 28-day full refund policy and card payment facilities will be available on the evening. In addition to our catwalk show, there will also be a fabulous selection of shoes, handbags and jewellery available on the night courtesy of Pink Confetti who specialise in accessories for girls who love to shop! As well as the chance to pick up a bargain for your summer wardrobe, there will be a licensed bar and a prize draw with some fabulous prizes so don’t miss out on this popular event. Advance tickets are £5.00 (£6.00 on the door). For tickets or more information, contact Sue on (01455) 285799 or e-mail paperchase.sue@ btopenworld.com. Tickets are also available from Zoe’s Hair Studio and Pink Confetti in Broughton Astley. All proceeds will go to Friends of Chernobyl’s Children (West Leics) who Subscriber7-12yr Loginold children are raising funds to bring a group of disadvantaged affected by Chernobyl for a 4-week recuperative holiday in Leicestershire Passcode/New Users this August.

Help

“Bones of the Human Body” Wordsearch

SCI-FI WORDSEARCH

Win a Main Course for Two and a Bottle of Wine! V O D K W S P U M Q I X O A X

C J C H U A S Z A U B F J H Z

W E I I T E E Y L P N E G H Y

CLAVICLE

P M D E T P P A U F C R R V U

O A L Q V V A N P C O Y E X K

R L H I T P T P A T C Z E T S

A Y L F Y Y S W C P C O V A S

S U R E M U H E S K Y R F I M

W N H V G K L U Y G X Y A F E

W B S N N C F O S A C R U M J

U C J K I J I I R J K Q A K R

K R U V T P P R B U P X D T Z

T R A P E Z I U M U M D A L Q

V L Y X K R Y M J O L E L C I

C P T X N N X B A I L A F B C

STORE

find 12 Bones of the Human Body in this issue’s Wordsearch puzzle and you could win yourself a meal. This month we are offering a TASTY prize of:

A Main Course for Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine at The Field Head Hotel. To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - 12 Human Bones. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: BONEY M, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Tuesday 24th April 2012. Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s Fez will win the Meal for Two at The Field Head Hotel. Good luck!

Here are the 12 Human Bones you have to find:

CLAVICLE • COCCYX • FEMUR • FIBULA HUMERUS • PATELLA • RADIUS • SACRUM SCAPULA • STAPES • STERNUM • TRAPEZIUM Name: ................................................................................................... Address: ................................................................................................ .............................................................................................................. .............................................. Postcode: ................................................

Last issue’s Wordsearch winner!

Mrs.D.Brown of Station Road, Bagworth

Congratulations! Your Meal & Wine Voucher to spend at the Field Head Hotel will be sent to you in the next 21 days.

Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards.

27

10

Yea Guara r

ntee

Hose Pipe Ban Hose pipe bans are coming into force on the 5th April 2012 Water companies across parts of England are issuing hosepipe bans amid fears of drought conditions. Bans will come into force in certain regions with effect from 5th April 2012. Warnings from the Environment Agency state further areas are likely to be affected. People in breach of the ban face prosecution and risk being fined up to ÂŁ1000. In anticipation of this Endurance Landscape Services are offering to supply and install water butts incorporating irrigation systems to help householders over what could potentially be a long and dry summer. Thereby ensuring your car is kept clean,your lawns are kept green and gardens in bloom. Using a hosepipe to wash your car uses a lot of water, up to 25% is wasted on the ground. Using a bucket from a water butt helps to reduce wastage. Collecting rainwater in a water butt could save in the region of 5000 litres of water per year. For those householders who would like to be prepared against the measures proposed and invest in a quick and cheap water harvesting system, can contact Endurance Landscape Services on 01530 230462 or 07976 585 163 or email. mail@endurancelandscaping.co.uk

Women will forgive anything. Otherwise, the human race would have died out long ago.

They are all life-savers.

Are you? Markfield Community & Sports Centre, Mayflower Close Wednesday 9th May 2012 13.00-15.30 & 17.00-20.00 Save a life – give blood Visit blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23

give blood