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Pic: Medal winners (l-r) Carl Gunns, Andy
Corbett, Brenda Watts, Dorothy Marshall and John Tomlinson
FIVE PEOPLE from Birstall have been presented
with medals for the volunteer work they do in the community.
21 people from the county received their medals at a reception
at Leicester's Town Hall, hosted by the Mayor Mary Draycott and
the Lord Lieutenant The Lady Gretton.
John Tomlinson, Dorothy Marshall and Brenda Watts are all members
of the Friends of Belgrave Cemetery Group, set up to preserve
and conserve the cemetery near Red Hill island.
John said: "It was an unexpected surprise to receive this
award. I saw the vandalism at the cemetery and wanted to help
put things right and help foster a bit more respect for the place."
Chairman of the Group Dorothy Marshall said: "It is an honour
to receive this award and I'm thrilled. It has been a pleasure
to meet so many good people prepared to give up their time for
the group."
Brenda said: "I was shocked and pleased to receive this
medal. My family have lived in Belgrave for three generations,
I visited the cemetery as a child and I've been pleased to help
restore it."
Also presented with medals, given by Community Service volunteers
as part of their Year of the Volunteer, were Carl Gunns, who
has set up a boxing gym in Birstall, and Andy Corbett who has
developed junior cricket in the village.
Carl said: "This award is recognition for the gym, not for
me. This gym and the kids mean everything to me, they are family
as far as I'm concerned and it's become a real labour of love."
Andy said: "I feel very proud to receive this medal. The
big drive for me is to see the progress the lads are making.
We now have two juniors playing for Leicestershire, for the first
time in the club's history." Around 100 young people aged
7-17 are now playing cricket at Birstall Village Cricket Club.
Carl and Dorothy have both been selected for the next stage of
the Year of the Volunteer awards and will join 43 others from
across the country at the national finals, to be held at the
Drury Lane theatre, London in January.
Longslade’s charity concert
A CONCERT performed by students was the
highlight of a day of fundraising at Longslade College for Children
in Need.
Pic: dancers Anna Snow and Sam Redford (kneeling)
Pic: (l-r) Jacques Verschuere, Chris Smith,
Rob Greaves, Jade Bedford, Nicola Yorke
Pic: Scott Ashby & Laura Burger
Pic: (l-r) Jamie Theobald, Emily Hurst, Scott
Ashby, Adam Gent
Featuring singing, dancing, drama and humour, the concert
helped the college raise more than £1,000. Funds were boosted
by a bucket collection, cake stalls and quizzes.
St James’ church
FOLLOWING THE licensing of James Shakespeare
by the Bishop of Leicester in a packed church last month; the
new priest in charge of the Anglican parish of Birstall and Wanlip
is starting his new job at one of the busiest times of year for
the church and community.
James is hoping to spend his first few months in the parish getting
to know people and finding out how all the organisations tick.
The annual Christmas services will also give more people a chance
to get to know him. The Scouts and Guides annual Carol Service
at 3pm on December 18 and the end of term Christmas service for
Riverside Primary School will help him to meet with some of the
younger people in the village.
There will be a traditional candlelit service of Nine Lessons
and Carols at Wanlip at 6pm on Sunday December 18 and a Carol
Service, particularly for children, also at Wanlip on Monday
19 at 6pm.
Meanwhile, during the four weeks of Advent before Christmas,
each of the Birstall churches will take it in turns to 'host'
Joseph and Mary as a reminder of the Christmas story of their
journey to Bethlehem where they found 'no room at the inn' for
the birth of Jesus. The figurines move on each day to a different
family who ask friends to join them for a social gathering and
to make a contribution to a named charity.
The Monday Group is holding its 'FestiveFayre' from 11am to 2pm
on December 3 and on Sunday December 11 there will be a Christmas
tea afternoon with carols for the less mobile older people, in
the Village Hall.
The people of St James the Great, Birstall and Our Lady and St
Nicholas, Wanlip would like to wish all Birstall Post readers
a happy and blessed Christmas.
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Diwali fun at library
Pic: Winner of the Best Traditional Dress
competition Charlotte Mayor (4) is pictured with 2nd place Tanisha
Patel (7) and Library Development workers Darshna Narker (left)
and Bharti Acharya.
A DIWALI event at Birstall library had
a buzzing atmosphere as children and their parents enjoyed a
fun filled evening.
It included a performance of dancing by children from Highcliffe
School, a puppet play and a best dressed competition. Children
also created colourful Rangoli patterns.
Angered by vandalism
PARENTS WHO donated a toy car for a Birstall
playground were shocked when they discovered it had been attacked
by vandals and daubed with graffiti.
Scott and Maria Fewster provided the car after receiving donations
from well wishers and friends following the death of their two
year old son Lachlan, and it was installed by Birstall Parish
Council in the small children's play area on School Lane playing
field in 2003. It has the number plate : 4 LACHLAN.
Pic: the damaged car
Scott said: "Maria went to the park the other day to discover
that the car has been badly vandalised. This wasn't random vandalism
- the metal steering wheel has been cut off the car with a saw
leaving sharp metal shards - obviously this was planned, surely
vandals don't wander around with cutting equipment on them just
in case. The car has also been covered in graffiti."
Maria said: I was really upset when I saw it, and concerned for
the safety of the other children, because there were sharp metal
spikes where they had ripped off the steering wheel. I'm quite
disgusted that people can do something like this, not just because
it was Lachlan's car, but to any piece of children's play equipment."
Scott added: "I hope that by making people aware of what
has happened, someone who knows who did this might come forward
or it might prick the conscience of the vandals themselves."
The anonymous Police Crimestoppers number is 0800 555111 or contact
PC Jamie Hughes on 222 2222 ID number 0826.
Slimmers are top
Pic: (l-r) Mandy Cross, Ainsley Harriott
and Sonia Belshaw
THE AWARD winning Birstall Slimming World
group has again been honoured for its achievements in losing
weight, proving to be one of the best weight losing areas in
the country.
Consultant Mandy Cross, said: "In the last six months the
group has lost just over 180 stones and to recognise this achievement
I received a cuddle with top chef Ainsley Harriott at the Slimming
World Awards Ceremony.
He was great, just as he is on the television, and was so impressed
with the results Slimming World achieve."
As Mandy reflects on the past year, she says it's been a great
one at Birstall. "In the last month three members have each
achieved an Award for each losing a staggering five stone! Not
everyone wants to lost five stone, however to those who do, it's
a fantastic achievement to be proud of - and we are proud of
them."
Slimming World in Birstall, is held on a Tuesday at 4pm, 5.30pm
and 7pm at the Village Hall and anyone is welcome to join. Classes
will be running all through December and Christmas. Mandy can
be contacted on 01664 567260 if you would like more information.
Floral advice
A DUTCH flower expert spent a day at a
Birstall florist to give advice on display and layout.
Joke Maat from the Dutch Flower Council has helped New World
Florist on the Meadway create an exciting Christmas display.
Proprietor Gill Bolton said: "It was a very productive day,
she gave us plenty of design ideas, suggestions for the shop
layout and introduced us to some unusual plants."
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Mobile phones are here to stay. Why can't we look for a compromise?
The junction of the A6/A46 at the top of the hill could be a
suitable site.
This could mean smaller and less powerful ones in the rest of
Birstall. This would be more expensive for the phone company.
We must share the good and bad things.
Les Briers
I refer to your story about the passing motorist upset by
the statue of a golliwog. I will be amazed if you don't receive
letters about this story. What a good piece of reporting.
For me there are all sorts of issues here not least the patronising
comments of Ms Dobbie concerning the proprietor's 'lack of awareness'.
It is about time people woke up to the whole issue of 'correctness'
and what it means.
I have worked alongside colleagues from different cultures all
my life in a professional capacity. We showed each other respect,
never ever fearful of offending each other by saying politically
incorrect words. We were allowed to confront each other should
we find the other's behaviour unacceptable and we recognised
and were sensitive to feedback. Some of these people remain my
friends today. I am aware that some have not been as fortunate
to have had such an exposure to culture but also that there are
many people who are in their own way respectful of others' beliefs.
This is what makes for a tolerant society. Most people I have
met have some prejudices. This is normal. Most people also get
on with each other without having to be told what they should
do or say.
I commend Dean Vendyback for reacting so quickly to the issue.
I am surprised that given the thousands of people who have walked
and driven by the statue, that as a result of one complaint he
has removed it. So what about poor old Betty Boop who stands
posing outside the shop. Oh and these little fellows with beards
who people buy and put in their garden. Surely there's some feminist
and vertically challenged group who should have a say here.
Whilst we continue to dismiss tradition without recognising it
from an informed position and replace Christmas lights with winter
lights and give Snow-white seven helpers because we can't say
dwarf, we will continue to miss the real issue. This is Britain.
Not all of our history is good but nevertheless it has laid the
foundations to make us one of the best countries in the world.
Could it be then that is why the number of immigrants to this
country is increasing?
I was always taught to respect others including their beliefs.
I don't need to be fed a politically correct line which serves
to undermine my individual intelligent assessment of right and
wrong. If Ms Dobbie was upset by the statue of a golliwog I feel
sorry for her. Perhaps others were also upset but scared to comment.
I feel sorry for them as well. I just ask that a degree of sensibility
about the issue is used by your readers. Please let them make
their own minds up where they stand on this, either with common
sense or with correctness. Please don't let them be forced to
think in a sterile way, watching every move they make or P and
Q they utter. That said though, at the end of the day, remember
Big Brother is watching.
Kevin Burrows
I couldn't help but be dismayed at Alice Dobbie's comments
regarding the golly ornament outside The Posy Bowl in Birstall.
The golly has a place of affection in our hearts as it was everyone's
favourite toy. It is not politically incorrect to display a golly.
You can buy them in toy shops and on the internet. We are all
encouraged to be far too sensitive, maybe we should concentrate
more on real racial issues instead of bleating on about nothing.
We could all be offended by anything these days. Perhaps Mr Vendyback
of The Posy Bowl should stop selling roses as I don't particularly
like them!
Mr Vendyback, don't bow down to pressure. I think your shop and
its contents are wonderful, put the golly back.
T Diglin
I am a professional singer and have just returned to live
in Birstall after travelling for the last eight years and would
love the opportunity to sing over Christmas.
An extensive repertoire from opera and oratorio to shows, jazz
and cabaret. I also have a show of around 30 Christmas carols
and songs. I have my own equipment and backing tracks and also
music to play with a band or pianist. Perhaps there is a pianist
out there who would like to join me?
My experience has been working in the North East club circuit
for three years, four years solo singer in Benidorm's clubs and
hotels, lead roles in Musical Theatre and Opera (amateur), singing
with jazz band, Oratorio, Old Time Music Hall and busking at
Covent Garden!
If any societies, churches, clubs or private functions would
like me to provide a show, sing with other musicians or background
for an event, particularly over Christmas, I'd love to sing for
you. Please contact me on my mobile or email. A demo disc is
available.
Mobile 07759 695811. Email: eleandra@hotmail.com.
Leandra Edmands
I would like to bring your attention to the parking down Meadow
Lane Sports Fields at the weekends, especially Saturdays.
I walk my dog down there twice daily and it is absolutely mayhem.
If there is an accident or a fire on the Country Park the emergency
services would not get through. The junior footballers' parents
park everywhere even blocking the entrances to the Country Park.
It doesn't matter about pedestrians, allotment holders or other
car drivers visiting the Country Park. They have no respect,
just couldn't care less!
I have written to Mr Stuart Jones at the Parish Council to see
what is being done about it.
Anita J Gamble (Mrs)
I have been following your letter page with some interest
over the last few months. One of your correspondents has advocated
the installation of a roundabout and traffic lights to admit
traffic to the new Hallam Fields estate. Apparently he has no
regard for the school playing field, part of which is to be taken
by his scheme.
I wonder if the gentleman has stopped to think about the fuel
consumption of a stationary vehicle. Whilst this may not be so
dramatic as one speeding along a motorway, at least the latter
is doing what it was designed for and not idling in traffic jams.
If only one car were involved I would not write this letter -
has the gentleman witnessed the rush hour queues which form every
time there is a hold-up on the A6.
Again, why must we have lights AND a roundabout? The latter was
meant to substitute for lights in places where traffic density
was low, and is a complete waste of land when used on a main
road with lights. One has only to drive along Troon Way in the
direction of Tesco's to see this point illustrated. Again, the
only vehicular access to the Gates estate is via Greengate Lane
- why should the new estate have such an obstructive access?
Lastly, I live north of Bentley Road. We have a gap in the central
reservation (another waste of land?) so that we can access our
houses. This is to blocked because "it is too dangerous"
when involved with bus lanes as well. I pointed out to the local
authorities that all the smashes that have occurred certainly
in the last few years have taken place at Bentley Road. By their
arguments, I suggested, that gap should be closed as well. Apparently
"I don't understand".
Please do not encourage the local road authorities. Ignorance
is bliss...
Dr D A C McNeil
May I thank all those friends in the community who prepared
shoeboxes for needy children throughout the world. I was amazed
at the wonderful response; it was over three times our target
of 50. A total of 161 boxes went from Birstall, which is a magnificent
response. Thank you all very much indeed.
Beryl Massey
I would like to say many thanks to the two young ladies who
stopped and gave me a lift home after I had a fall in Bentley
Road on Monday November 14.
It was much appreciated.
Mrs Pauline Penrose
I would like to thank all the Birstall Royal British Legion
club committee and staff for their dedicated work throughout
the year of 2005 and all our members for their support of the
club.
Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
K R Sarson
Club chairman
I refer to the [article on page 5 of your] current issue of
the Birstall Post concerning a person who does not even live
in Birstall who objects to a garden ornament, namely a golliwog
figure, only 4 ft high.
I find this point of view so ridiculous in this day and age,
and must protest at a complaint at such a harmless item being
displayed outside a flower shop, being The Posy Bowl.
I have just been round to the Posy Bowl with my camera, as I
had almost forgotten what a golliwog looked like.
The proprietor Mr D Vendyback kindly allowed me to take a photograph,
and I understand many other local Birstall people with children
have also taken the same opportunity.
Good luck to the Posy Bowl for the future.
Clive Smith
The Birstall Post informs us that Alice Dobbie of Belgrave,
Leicester was driving along Sibson Road when she saw what she
described as a Golliwog outside the Posy Bowl shop. As I need
to keep my eyes on the road when driving, especially so on Sibson
Road with the normally heavy traffic floor and the road works
I am amazed she was able to spend time viewing the goods for
sale. I found it necessary to park my car in able to determine
what was being sold and on display.
Low and behold what did I see? Five pigs - other animals and
oh dear! a Father Christmas. How on earth could Alice Dobbie
have missed them? There is a very serious situation here. She
should also have taken steps to have these items removed. The
pigs could offend another religion; the other animals could offend
animal rights campaigners. Most certainly she should have complained
about the Father Christmas as the word 'Christmas' could offend
anyone not of the Christian Faith as some Labour Councils have
declared. Maybe now she will be going round garden centres demanding
they remove garden gnomes in case it offend dwarfs.
The object of her complaint, Golliwog, was her own interpretation
of what it was, it is also known simply as a Golly. I therefore
conclude the offence was caused by the interpretation of the
name by Alice Dobbie, as there was no notice on the object giving
it the Golliwog name. Leaders of other cultures have asked for
the madness of the politically correct to be stopped. they get
the kick back from something they have taken no part in.
I am surprised that the shop owner took notice of Alice Dobbie's
complaint for as he said many had stopped to have a photograph
with the Golly and I would imagine at the same time viewed his
other wares. Presumably they would be local people he relies
on to support his business not a passing motorist. The owner
obviously gave more thought to the wishes of the passing motorist
than for those he expects to support his business and gained
pleasure from Golly with no thought that it was offensive. I
can think of a proverbial two-word reply that would have been
more appropriate to Alice Dobbie.
If Alice Dobbie wants to do something helpful instead of stirring
up trouble, I suggest she joins some charity organisation.
H Summerfield
Two letters in November's Post deserve a reply.
Firstly, Nicholas G Black expressed surprise at the £400
cost of litter bins purchased by Birstall Parish Council.
I can assure him that he is not alone.
There was a sharp intake of breath from parish councillors when
they were informed of the price. However, we have two choices
- pay a lower price for bins which will be destroyed within 24
hours of being installed or pay this high price for bins which
we hope will be vandal-proof.
It is a sad fact that so many of the facilities the Parish Council
provides are a target for vandals - litterbins, dogbins, cricket
pavilions and pitches, and even play equipment. All, of course,
at the expense of the people in the village.
Which brings me to Melanie Yorke's letter asking for better facilities
for young people.
She suggests a skateboard area. Does she not know that there
has been a skateboard park, provided by Birstall Parish Council
on the Meadow Lane playing fields for several years?
Perhaps Mrs Yorke also over-estimates the powers of parish councils.
As I wrote a couple of months ago, no parish council could contemplate
the building of a sports centre - it is way beyond their resources.
(It is a large undertaking even for a borough council.)
Parish councils are made up of ordinary people who meet twice
a month, supported by part-time staff, who deal with day-to-day
matters, and have very few powers. Indeed, I believe that the
people of Birstall are very fortunate that, over the last ten
years, our rather thrifty parish council has continuously updated
the facilities they are able to provide.
We are also very fortunate in having fine people in the village
who run our Scouts, Guides, Boys' and Girls' Brigades, ATC, swimming,
football and cricket clubs, dancing classes and the gym. Birstall
Parish Council also pays for an informal youth Drop In Centre
in the old council buildings.
I agree that there are some young people to whom organised activities
do not appeal but, perhaps cynically, I do not believe a sports
centre would interest the antisocial minority either.
Finally, may I suggest that the place to make suggestions or
ask questions is at the Open Session at Parish Council meetings.
Both of last month's letters were responsible and raised good
points but unfortunately, a couple of years ago, this letters
page was used by unpleasant elements in the village to aim abuse
at volunteer parish councillors, seriously damaging the Council.
So, if you have any ideas which might benefit the village (or
any complaints) please come along to a council meeting and put
them forward there.
Peter West
Local Police office
Pic: Outside Birstall's new Police Office
are PC Jamie Hughes, Insp Chris Alcott, PCSO Mark Butler, Chairman
of the Village Watch Ed Marshall, Village Watch Treasurer Allan
Kinton, Colin Barradell and Chairman of the Parish Council Stuart
Jones.
A NEW Police office in Birstall has been
welcomed by both the Police and the Village Watch.
Provided by Birstall Parish Council and located in their old
office building at 10 Sibson Road, the room will be used by Beat
Officer Jamie Hughes, PCSO Mark Butler and other Police officers
for doing paperwork, having lunch and meeting the public.
Inspector Chris Alcott from Syston LPU said: "This will
help to raise the visibility of the Police in the village and
I am grateful to the Parish Council and the Village Watch for
providing this facility."
Chairman of Birstall and Wanlip Village Watch Ed Marshall said:
"I think this is the way forward and we in Birstall are
one of the first to have a facility like this. It will improve
the profile of the Police in the village, it's important that
people are aware that they are around."
He added: "In the future it may be possible for us to expand
the use by having surgeries here, when the public can drop in
and talk to officers."
The Village Watch already use the building once a month for their
advice shops and have contributed towards the refurbishment of
the building. 10 Sibson Road is also used two evenings a week
as a drop-in centre for young people.
Cemetery building refurbished
Pic: Birstall Parish Council Chairman Stuart
Jones, and Joseph Garner outside the cemetery building
BIRSTALL CEMETERY'S new building was opened
by the Mayor of Charnwood Roger Wilson.
The refurbished building now contains toilets, including a disabled
toilet, storage rooms and an office for the new Sexton Joseph
Garner.
Birstall Parish Council maintain the cemetery and refurbished
the building at a cost of £50,000.
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Methodist news
Five Times Last Year's Total
When Beryl Massey appealed for 50 shoeboxes to be filled with
items for under-privileged children around the world, little
did she expect to end up with 161!
Beryl was delighted to be so overwhelmed with boxes, and made
Herculean efforts to ensure they were all correctly dispatched
to the central collecting point.
The project started off (some years ago) as a venture launched
locally by Beryl, but soon the four churches (Methodist, Roman
Catholics, St James Birstall & St Nicholas Wanlip) and other
village residents joined in the project.
There was a stringent list of 'do-nots' (nothing sharp, perishable
or breakable, no marbles, medicines, books with words, or clothing
except for a scarf, or hat or gloves, but despite this, friends
were not put off.
Wanted - Village Organisers!
Following the departure of Rev Ian Mason to take up his appointment
at Syston in August, the village is short of an organiser for
the Christian aid house to house collection. If you feel you
could volunteer for this task, then contact Rev Edward Sakwe
(2674117) or any of the clergy in the village.
Also the churches' magazine Contact is in dire need of someone
to take on the role of distributor. It involves bundling up the
magazines, delivering them to those who push the magazine through
the letterbox, taking in the money collected and passing the
money on to the treasurer. Contact Shirley Harrison (2676369)
for more details.
Christmas & New Year Events
There are a number of special Christmas events, firstly for children.
Joint churches in Birstall & Wanlip are organising a Christmas
Workshop on the afternoon of December 17 for those aged 5-11.
It is necessary to book in advance (contact Rosemary Parrott
2674755).
Also for children is a 'dressing up nativity' on December 11
at 3pm.
This is to be a short, informal service for children (adults
are welcome too). Youngsters are invited to come along dressed
as one of the characters out of the Christmas story. If you've
nothing to dress up in, we'll find something for you. I am sure
we shall end up with several Josephs, several Marys and lots
of shepherds - but we will fit everyone into this special event.
There will be a candlelight carol service at 6pm on December
18 and a Midnight Communion on Christmas Eve (starts at 11.30pm).
We shall be carol singing around the village on Sunday evening
December 18 and again on Christmas Eve. The money collected will
go to NCH Action for Children. You are welcome to join us singing
or collecting, 7pm on both evenings. Contact Pete Molesdale for
more details (tel: 2929670).
Another Churches Together in Birstall & Wanlip is the New
Year's Eve Party at the village hall starting at 9pm.
You will need a ticket (£1.50 from Mary Downs 2672606)
and need to bring along any drinks and a contribution to the
buffet. It is a friendly occasion and ideal for any folk who
might be on their own on New Year's Eve.
NHW news and Crime Report
GOPEDS are basically skateboards propelled
by engines on the rear.
The Department of Transport advises that these are classed as
motor vehicles and will be liable to Vehicle Excise Duty. Some
electric scooters (even with seats, lights and indicators) and
petrol driven skate boards - which are being marketed as being
capable of being used by persons over 14 - do not fall within
any particular category at the moment.
To be safe it is best to remember that anyone using a scooter
with a petrol engine, or one that is electrically powered, on
the road must have a driving licence and third party insurance.
'Mini Motos' are replicas of their real size counterparts but
we are not aware of any that are roadworthy so they should not
be used on the road or pavement. Riding any of these vehicles
on the pavement is - in its own right - breaking the law and
should be reported to your local police who will advise the young
person and their parents as to its safest use. The only place
any of these machines can be used is on private land with the
landowner's permission.
The view is that no matter what the size of these vehicles, if
fitted with an internal combustion engine they cannot be classified
as a toy, therefore they come under the same category as powered
scooters and if used on a 'road' both the rider and machine must
comply with the Road Traffic Act.
'Road' includes just about anywhere the public can go. The rider
needs to be the appropriate age, have a valid driving licence
for the class of vehicle and be wearing a crash helmet. The vehicle
needs to be registered, taxed, have insurance, and to have vehicle
type approval. Mini Motos have not received type approval and
therefore cannot be registered, taxed or insured.
When a rider is under the age of criminal responsibility, consideration
will be given to seizing the vehicle under Section 59 of the
Police Reform Act 2002, if the manner of its use is causing alarm,
distress or annoyance. An adult could be reported for various
offences concerning the vehicle and the risk to a child or young
person depending on the circumstances.
From Rosie Rollings
Secretary, Birstall & Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch
Crime Report : Sep 19-Oct 18
Burglary 0, Burglary shed/garage 2, Theft of motor vehicle 1,
Theft from motor vehicle 3, Damage to motor vehicle 6, Theft
cycle 2, Theft 2, Robbery 1, Damage 8
Arrests
TWO ARRESTS have been made in Birstall
of local youths in connection with graffiti and minor acts of
criminal damage.
One young person in Birstall currently has an Antisocial Behaviour
Order (ASBO) in place.
Glimpse of old Birstall
'MANSFIELD OF Birstall', the story of one
of Birstall's most outstanding citizens and renewed in last month's
Post, contains a number of rare illustrations.
Two of these are printed here.
The original building of Leicester Infirmary, which stood on
the site of the old chapel of St Sepulcher. When opened in 1771
one of its stated aims was "the reception of fifty four
patients, sick or lame, without restriction of country or nation."
Its top floor was acknowledged as being the best place in Leicester
from which to watch public hangings.
This rustic scene, the earliest known picture of Birstall, was
published in 1793. It shows today's Roman Road which was a notoriously
difficult stretch of the main Harborough to Derby Turnpike because
of its terrible surface and the risk of highwaymen. On the right
of the road, concealed by the steep rise of the hills stood a
gallows.
Mansfield of Birstall runs to 200 pages and contains 17 pages
of illustrations. It will be available in early December and
costs £9.95. If you live in Birstall and wish to reserve
a copy ring the author Mike Smith on 2675792 and he will deliver
it to you personally.
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Age Concern info
Mrs Edith Murphy, MBE - a Tribute and a Thank You
Since the death of Mrs Edith Murphy in October we have read how
she was very benevolent in various ways in Birstall and in the
wider community in Leicestershire by means of donations from
the charitable Foundation which she established. Mrs Murphy was
a patron of Age concern Birstall and Wanlip and I hereby pay
a special tribute and record a grateful thank you for the wonderful
way she helped Age Concern this year. In June, St James Day Care
Centre took delivery of a new minibus, provided by the Edith
Murphy Foundation, which incorporated several improvements on
the former one. As a result of donating the previous minibus
to Age Concern Leicestershire and Rutland we were able to obtain
funding for the wages of a driver/carer at the Day Centre on
Thursdays. Thus Age Concern Birstall and Wanlip and the Day Centre
were helped in a marvelous, double way by this generous, remarkable
woman.
Death and Bereavement - Dancing Through the Void
A woman of 64 who lost her husband after 44 years of marriage
(having lost also her mother just five months earlier) has written
a book about her experience, with the aim of helping others in
similar situations.
The chapters describe the author's feelings and the support she
received from family and friends, through the stages of her daily
life following her bereavement, including how she coped with
being alone ("the void"), with depression, with anniversaries,
with selling her home and moving. At the end of each chapter
she gives practical suggestions for filling each day positively
through activities such as keeping a diary and volunteer work.
There is an appendix on aromatherapy. which the author found
helpful and another which provides contact details of organisations
that can help.
Dancing Through the Void: A Personal Approach to Working through
Widowhood by Jacqui Clarke. 68pp. Price £9.95 + p&p
ISBN: 1903953952. Available from Woodfield Publishing Ltd Woodfield
House, Babsham Lane, Bognor Regis PO21 5EL. Tel: 01243 821234
Fax: 01243 821757 Email: info@woodfieldpublishing.com.
Avoiding Heart Attacks and Strokes
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published a booklet to
give advice to individuals about heart attacks and strokes and
the action that can be taken to prevent them.
The booklet explains the causes of heart attacks and strokes,
how preventative measures work and what to do in the case of
a heart attack or stroke. Following an explanation of other heart
diseases, the booklet gives detailed information and advice on
stopping tobacco use, improving diet, staying active and reducing
high blood pressure, high blood sugar and high blood fat levels.
The key message from the booklet is that, whilst heart attacks
and strokes are major killers, it is often possible to take action
to prevent them.
Avoiding Heart Attacks And Strokes - Don't Be A Victim, Protect
Yourself. 44pp Price £9. ISBN: 9241546727. Available from
the Stationery Office, PO Box 29, Norwich NR3 1GN. Tel: 0870
600 5522. Fax: 0870 600 5533. Email: book.orders@tso.co.uk. Also
available free on the internet at www.who.int/cardiovascular_diseases/resources/avoid_heart_report.pdf
Falls Prevention: New Website
A website to give older people advice on how to prevent falls
has been developed by the University of Southampton in collaboration
with Help the Aged and Riomed.
The website was developed as a result of research showing that
older people often reject advice about falls prevention as they
find it patronising and think it will restrict their activities.
The site aims to give personalised advice following an on-line
self-assessment, with the objective of helping older people to
incorporate balance exercises into their daily lives and reduce
their risk of falling.
The Website can be assessed at www.balancetraining.org.uk
Guide to Pensions 2006
The Annual Age Concern pensions guide has now been updated and
it is geared to people who are keen to improve their pension
arrangements. The guide explains the new legislation and rules
which give more protection to occupational pensions and alter
the tax rules surrounding private pensions. The guide also outlines
in detail the main types of pension schemes: state, occupational
and private.
Your 2006 Guide to Pensions by Sue Ward. 288pp. Price £7.99
(plus £1.95 p&p) ISBN: 0862424097. Available from Age
Concern Books, Units 5 & 6, Industrial Estate, Brecon, Powys,
LD3 8LA. Tel: 0870 4422120. Fax : 0870 800 0100
Winter Fuel Payments 2005-06
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has updated its annual
booklet. The 2005 edition explains who is entitled to the winter
fuel payment; how much they will get, depending on circumstances;
how to claim; and when people will get the payment. The leaflet
also includes details of other age-related payments for 2005.
There are two payments for people aged 65 and over - one to help
people with the Council Tax bills and the other to help with
additional living expenses.
Your Guide to Winter Fuel Payments 2005/2006 46pp.ISBN: 1843885980.
Available free by phoning the winter Fuel Payments publicity
order line: 0845 601 1562. Also available on the Internet at:
www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/pdf/winterfuel/wfpl1aug05.pdf
Civil Partnership
The Government's Women and Equality Unit has produced a leaflet
outlining the rights of same-sex couples when the Civil Partnership
Act becomes effective in December 2005.
It explains in clear and simple terms what civil partnership
means, who can register and how to proceed with registering a
civil partnership. It also lists partners' rights and responsibilities
with regard to financial, family and employment matters and the
rights of the survivor when one civil partner dies. Information
is given on how to get help when things go wrong and how to end
a civil partnership. The last page provides contact details for
further information on the topics mentioned in the leaflet.
Civil Partnerships: Legal Recognition for Same-Sex Couples from
December 2005. 7pp. Available free from the DTI Publications
order line, Admail 528, London SW1 W8YT. Tel: 0845 015 0010 (Quote
URN05/1485). Also available on the Internet at www.womenandequalityunit.gov.uk/civilpartnerships.htm.
Single Assessment Process for Older People: Glossary
The Centre for Policy on Ageing has developed a glossary to explain
terms used by health and social care agencies when carrying out
assessments. The glossary is intended to be useful to clinicians
and to older people themselves.
The NHS Care Records Service - Single Assessment Process. Glossary
of Health, Social Care and Information Technology. Available
on the Internet at www.cpa.org.uk/sap/glossary/glossary.html
Local Removals and House Clearance Service
Early this year and in response to demand, Age Concern Leicestershire
and Rutland launched a first-of-its-kind local House Clearance
and Small Removals Service, with a dedicated vehicle based at
Blaby. The service has proved to be a great hit and the charity
is so delighted with progress that the service has been extended
to cover the whole of Leicestershire and Rutland. The comprehensive
and competitively priced service is operated by experienced,
well trained and fully insured operatives. Whilst most enquiries
so far have involved older people who are downsizing and solicitors
acting for clients, the team adopts a flexible approach. Age
Concern Leicestershire and Rutland is very much a local charity,
despite its nationally known brand, with all the funds staying
in the two counties. Anthony Donovan, Executive Director, commented:
"We are determined that the service will continue. It helps
our target group of often frail and needy local older people,
by generating some income to help us provide vital services.
At the same time, our Clearance and Removal customers know that
they are getting a decent deal from a trusted supplier."
Further information may be obtained from Kerry Ward on tel: no:
0116 2992233, without commitment.
Security in the Home
Most burglars are opportunists and they will look for unlocked
doors or opened windows to get in. You can reduce the risk of
burglary and make yourself feel safe by taking steps to make
your home secure.
o always lock outside doors and close the windows even if you
are just going out for a short time. But when you lock up while
you are inside (for example at night), keep your keys nearby
so that you can get out easily in case of emergency
o draw the curtains in the evening, when the room is lit;
o don't give keys to people you do not know well, such as workmen
- they can make copies - but keep a spare set with a person you
trust;
o change the locks if you think somebody else might have another
set of your keys, for example a previous tenant;
o do not leave your spare keys in obvious places such as under
a flowerpot or doormat or hanging inside the letterbox;
o look through the 'spy hole' and put the door chain on before
you open the door;
o only take the chain off and admit the caller if you are sure
about their identity and purpose of the visit;
o do not keep the door chain on all the time; it will prevent
someone entering with a door key - for example a home help or
the emergency services;
o keep your garden tools and ladders locked away;
o keep valuable items out of sight;
o if, on arriving home you think you have been broken into, do
not go inside as the burglar might still be inside. Call the
police.
Old Age Starting At About 80 As Brains Keep Getting Younger
A neuroscientist has found that people are ageing approximately
10 years later than in the mid 1980s and that the degree to which
people retain their faculties after 50 is influenced by what
they do. Physical activity, mental stimulation, healthy eating
and an active social life all help to keep people younger. (Guardian,
September 8)
Elderly Caught Up In Chip And Pin Confusion
The switch from signatures to PIN numbers for card payments has
left many people unable to make purchases. However, older people
who have difficulty remembering a PIN number can ask their bank
for a chip-and-signature card, which lets cardholders sign for
purchases. (Sunday Express, September 18).
Jex Woods
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