Tight fit
CHILDREN FROM Birstall's Rainbow Nursery
helped a mammoth fit into a pair of jeans.
Pic: the children succeeded in dressing the
mammoth in jeans
They were taking part in a fundraising day to help children with
genetic disorders, and were dressing up Watermead Country Park's
woolly mammoth statue in a giant pair of jeans.
Dogs face park ban
DOGS COULD be banned from all Birstall's
parks if the problem of dog fouling does not improve, says Birstall
Parish Council.
Parish Clerk Brenda Thomas said: "Despite the Parish Council's
exhaustive efforts, dog fouling on the parks has not improved".
In an attempt to enforce the law on dog fouling, the Council
employs a dog warden service for 20 hours a month which costs
£179.
Brenda said: "With the best will in the world, the council
does not have the resources to provide a constant presence to
ensure that dog owners undertake their responsibilities and clear
up after their pet."
Residents, including dog owners, have complained about the problem
on the parks and the Council is now considering a total ban on
dogs on Birstall's parks: School Lane, Meadow Lane and Harrowgate
Drive.
Brenda said: "In an attempt to avoid this, the council is
calling on all dog owners to consider the implications of not
complying with the law. Please keep our park areas safe and comply
with the law."
CCTV is now in place on the School Lane playing field and this
will be monitored to try to identify offenders, says the Council,
who intend to prosecute offenders.
The Council provides free doggy bags to Birstall residents which
you can obtain from the council Office, the Village Hall, Birstall
Road from 9am to 2pm Mondays and Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays
and there are bins around the park for their disposal.
Why is it such an issue?
Your dog's faeces may carry eggs of a parasite called toxocariasis.
These eggs are not infectious until they embryonate and this
usually takes 2-3 weeks to happen. The soil or sand under the
faeces then becomes contaminated and this can then be infectious
to humans for up to two years.
All humans can contract toxocara and the infection can last between
6 to 24 months. However, toxocariasis is more dominant in children
between 19 months and 5 years. It can be carried from the park
to people's homes through the hands, dogs or through inanimate
objects such as wheels of prams, bikes, soles of shoes etc.
What are the symptoms of toxocariasis?
Eye disorders are the most commonly reported, and this can cause
blindness through the growth of non-malignant tumours or the
development of detached retinas. In addition, this disease shows
flu-like symptoms and therefore a huge number of toxocariasis
cases go unreported and/or unrecognised. Other symptoms are vague
aches, dizziness and nausea, asthma and epileptic fits.
What is the legislation regarding dog fouling?
The Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 and our own bylaws provide
that your dog must be kept on a lead in the park and that you
can be fined up to £1000 if you fail to clean up after
your dog.
The dog warden can issue £50 fixed penalty notices to offenders.
CCTV is now installed on one of the parks and this will be monitored
to try to identify offenders, and where offenders persist the
necessary action will be taken and could lead to legal action
being taken.
Girl fights off man
POLICE ARE appealing for witnesses after
a report of an attempted abduction near Longslade College in
Birstall.
The incident happened at around 8.15am on Thursday October 11
as the 15 year old girl was walking along Wanlip Lane on her
way to school.
A large courier-style white van pulled up beside her and the
driver offered her a lift. She declined and carried on her journey.
As she reached the jitty which leads to Stonehill School she
felt a hand on her right arm. She turned and saw that the passenger
in the van had got out. He had hold of her arm and would not
let go. The girl struggled with the man for some time before
managing to break free. She then ran straight to school and told
her teachers who informed the police.
The driver of the van is described as white, in his forties,
of a large build with short hair and dark facial stubble greying
in places. He had a gold hoop earring in his left ear. The passenger
who grabbed her is described as being slim, of Asian appearance,
in his thirties, with a black goatee beard. He was wearing a
black woolly hat and had 'uncared for' teeth. The van was a white
courier-style van, slightly smaller than a transit. It had rust
over the wheel arches and some dents in the side. The incident
is not at this stage being linked to any other incidents but
officers are keeping an open mind.
Detective Constable Paul Burchell, from North Area CID, said:
"The girl did exactly the right thing in running straight
to her nearest trusted adult. She's obviously been very shaken
by the whole experience but has been very brave and detailed
in her account to us.
"While she was struggling with the passenger a number of
cars drove past and we really need to speak to these motorists.
"Were you driving along Wanlip Lane that morning? Perhaps
you were taking your own children to school or were on your way
to work? Did you see this man with this young girl? Perhaps you
saw the van? We've already done house to house in the area and
have spoken to other pupils at the school, however, we do believe
that these motorists could be key witnesses.
"I would encourage anyone who has any information about
this incident, the vehicle or the men involved to please get
in touch."
Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC 1340 Paul
Burchell from North Area CID on Leicester 0116 222 2222, follow
the instructions to leave a message for an officer and when prompted
key in his identification number 1340. Alternatively, people
can call Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555 111
Parish Council notes
A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council
was held on October 8.
The Council agreed to use the fireworks, scheduled for use at
the 2007 Gala, at next year's event.
A member of the public commented on the problem of dog fouling
on the School Lane playing field. The dog warden was not here
often enough and the park needs a month long crackdown on offenders,
he said.
Councillors commented that they were doing what they could with
limited resources and the responsibility for the problem lay
with dog owners.
PCSO Mark Butler presented the crime figures. He said that incidents
of antisocial behaviour and burglary in Birstall were amongst
the lowest in the Local Policing Unit area. He reported that
CID officers were investigating the assault of a girl on Windmill
Avenue on the last day of the summer term. Evidence was being
sought from a number of mobile phones that had been handed in.
PCSO Butler said there had recently been two arrests for burglary,
and reputed that a Birstall family had signed an ABC, Acceptable
Behaviour Contract. Failure to comply could result in an ASBO.
Chairman Stuart Jones reported that the CCTV cameras on the School
Lane playing field were operational and recording.
Cllr Pat Cleere reported that the Connect2 'bid' for cycleway
improvements to Watermead Country Park would feature in a TV
vote on December 8 & 9 on ITV.
The Council agreed to obtain costings for large Keep Dogs on
Lead signs for the entrances to Birstall's playing fields.
Planning
97 Roman Rd - erection of 2 storey extension to side
19 Park Rd - erection of first floor extension on top of garage
and extension to rear
42 Moorgate Ave - erection of ground floor extension to the rear
11 Cliffwood Ave - erection of single storey extension to side/rear
of dwelling to form a porch & conservatory
121 Sibson Road - demolition of a semi detached retail unit on
ground floor and residential use on first floor and erection
of a 2 storey development containing 3 shop units on the ground
floor and 3 office units on first floor
46 Moorgate Ave - proposed extension. New to existing bungalow
10 Hollytree Ave - erection of a single storey ground floor extension
to the rear
139 Sibson Rd - installation of shop front to include ATM machine
to front of store and security bollards with ventilation fans
for extraction, air conditioning units and condenser to rear.
139 Sibson Rd - display of illuminated fascia and projecting
signage, and non illuminated signage for transfers for glazing
and atm unit.
19 Church Hill - felling of one montery pine tree
131 Stonehill Ave - rear & side single storey extension to
domestic property
46 Elmfield Ave - erection of 2 storey extension to side and
single storey extension to rear
13 School Lane - cutting down of one sycamore tree
1 Sycamore Rd - erection of detached dwelling
50 Woodgate Drive - erection of first floor extension to side
& rear of dwelling
Bowling Club, School Lane Playing Field - erection of clock and
weather vane on roof of clubhouse
Blitz on rubbish
MORE THAN five tonnes of rubbish were removed
from Birstall's streets during an Environmental Action Day last
month.
Jointly funded by Birstall Parish Council, the Police and
Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch, the day was co-ordinated
by Charnwood Borough Council's Community Safety Officer Dave
Burge.
Charnwood's refuse collectors, street cleaners and street wardens
were joined by Police Officers and volunteers from the NHW. The
areas targeted were Sibson Road, Wanlip Lane, Lambourne Road,
Meadow Lane, Blenheim Road and Orchard Road.
A specialist cleaning team removed graffiti from several locations
including all three of Birstall's playing fields. They coated
surfaces with anti-graffiti paint which allows new graffiti to
be removed with warm water and a cloth.
The five tonnes of rubbish removed included litter, fridges,
freezers, cookers and mattresses.
Community safety leaflets were also delivered and Sibson Road
businesses were invited to participate in Businesswatch : regular
meetings between the Police and business owners to discuss crime
related issues.
Dave Burge said: "It was an excellent day, we removed a
lot of rubbish and gave out a lot of advice. The feedback we
got on Sibson Road from the shops about Businesswatch was excellent.
One issue they raised was about CCTV and a feasibility study
into that is now underway."
Club’s French trip
SPONSORSHIP BY a local firm is helping
to support a junior football club's trip to France.
Birstall United Juniors Under 13's team, managed by Jim Lennon,
will be making their annual trip to Tressin in March to compete
in a tournament.
Dale Wilson of Wilson Windows has provided £700 worth of
new kit for the team as well as a banner featuring one of his
suppliers, Rehau.
Club secretary Jim Lennon has been taking sides over there for
19 years, but this year will be the first time as a manager.
Pic: one of the girls' teams in their Wilson
Windows kit
Dale Wilson said: "Jim has done so much for the club
over the years and it's great that next year he will finally
be taking his own team. I wanted to sponsor the team and thank
him for all the work he puts in."
Jim said: "It will be something special going as a manager,
but I'll still be organising the trip as usual! I'd like to thank
Dale for the kit, we need all the help we can get."
Methodist Church news
Shoe Boxes - A Correction
Last month's Post gave details of the shoe boxes that were being
assembled to be despatched to some of the world's poorest children.
Unfortunately the phone number I supplied for the organiser of
this worthwhile project was incorrect. If you can fill a shoe
box then do contact Beryl on 2103064.
Highcliffe Harmony
This group will be giving an evening of music on Saturday November
17. Tickets are available by contacting Pete or Eileen on 2929670,
or at the door - but before the start at 7.30pm. £5 includes
light refreshments and proceeds will all go to NCH Action for
Children.
Christmas Festival
This year's Christmas Festival will follow the theme of 'The
Twelve Days of Christmas'. Do come along and see how various
folk have interpreted this theme.
The Church will be open to view the varied displays from 10am
to 8pm on Friday November 23 and from 10am to 4pm on Saturday
November 24. There will be a small admission charge, but accompanied
children are free.
Also on Friday Nov 23 between 3-8pm there will be an Outdoor
Market. There will be many stalls including 'Made in Birstall'
(preserves, pickles, chutneys cakes, jam and pastries etc), gifts
and fancy goods - many 'home made', Christmas decorations, fancy
chocolates & sweets. Santa will be in attendance for the
children and there will be children's games, tombola and a raffle.
To keep you warm on the Friday evening there will be hot punch,
pancakes and hot dogs. The coffee shop will be open for tea,
coffee and cakes throughout both days. Light lunches will be
available on both days 12noon to 2pm.
Proceeds are to be shared between church funds and local charities.
New play equipment
A NEW roundabout especially designed for
disabled children has been installed on the School Lane playing
field.
Pic: Mayor of Charnwood Joe Tormey tries the
new roundabout.
Designed to accommodate wheelchairs, the roundabout has been
provided by Birstall Parish Council at a cost of £8160.
Seventy five per cent of the cost was met with a grant from Charnwood
Borough Council.
Winners
BIRSTALL VILLAGE cricket club has won a
national award.
Wisden Cricketer magazine have named them Club of the Year, which
will see them receive new kit for their under nine and under
11 teams.
Wisden were impressed with the mural painted on the clubhouse,
featuring W G Grace, Andrew Flintoff and Paul Nixon, as well
as the work done on growing junior cricket which has seen several
young cricketers progress to county and district sides.
Simone’s WAG role
A BIRSTALL actress has secured a part as
a WAG in a new feature film starring Denise Van Outen.
Pic: actress Simone Swift
Birstall's Simone Swift (21) was filming her part in Goal
3 on location in Nottingham this October. Earlier this year she
completed a role in a new Punjabi television series alongside
up and coming Bollywood start Daljit Kaur.
Simone said: "The part in Goal 3 is my biggest to date,
acting is something I've
always wanted to do and I plan to attend lots of auditions and
really put myself about a bit - hopefully next time I'll be the
leading lady!"
Simone trained as an actress, singer and dancer at the Dupont
Dance and Stage School in Leicester for 17 years. She has become
a familiar face among Leicester City fans after winning an internet
vote to model the club's new kit.
Coffee morning at playgroup
CHILDREN AT Wanlip pre-school enjoyed taking
part in the world's biggest coffee morning day in September,
raisng £100 for the charity. Our picture shows Louise Webster
and Sarah Topley with some of the children.
New group for arthritis sufferers
A NEW Self Help group for people with arthritis
has had a successful first year.
Membership of CLASH, Community Leicester Arthritis Self Help,
is growing rapidly as they enter their second year, based at
Longslade Community College.
Pics: Hydrotherapy at the LRI and (below)
a gym session
at the Peepul Centre
Weekly Hydrotherapy sessions at the Leicester Royal Infirmary
successfully started in April. This was thanks to The Leicester
and County Convalescent Homes Society who contributed £240
and Leicester City Council Small Grants Scheme who provided £150
towards the pool hire. Continuation of this activity has been
assured with thanks to a £2000 grant from the Community
Champions Fund.
One member, Marina Norton, said: "As you walk into the Hydrotherapy
room the warmth greets you, the water is so warm and relaxing,
it makes exercising a pleasure. We have a chat, a laugh and generally
try to help each other.
"If I had not joined CLASH I believe I would not be capable
of doing again the things I used to do My garden is not as neglected
as it was and I am attempting to spring clean my home."
She added: "I'm not cured; there is no cure but exercising
your joints in really warm water makes you feel good and for
a while, the pain seems to go away.
Leicester City Council Small Grants Scheme provided £360
to support weekly gym activities for the group at the Peepul
Centre Long-Term Conditions Gym. The group used the grant to
fund two gym staff members to train at Loughborough College on
the GP Referral Course.
If you have arthritis CLASH invite you to their monthly meetings
in the Luther King Centre, Longslade on the second Wednesday
of every month from 7p-9pm. Karina McGann, Clinical Nurse Specialist
from the LRI gave a talk on pain management at the September
meeting.
OSCA nominee
BIRSTALL'S ANDY Corbett was invited to
Lords cricket ground to attend an awards ceremony for volunteers
who make a contribution to cricket.
Pic: Mark Ramprakash (left) presents Andy
Corbett
and other volunteers with a certificate
Organised by the England and Wales Cricket Board, the Outstanding
Services to Cricket Awards (OSCAs) are held annually, and Andy
was a finalist in the 'Another Way' category, for his work promoting
junior cricket at the grass roots level.
Andy said: "The day started with a tour of Lords, including
the Media Centre, the Lord museum, and a look inside the pavilion
where the players have their tea in the famous Long Room. In
the changing rooms the guide gave us a few comical stories about
the England players. Then we watched a bat making session from
a piece of English willow to the finished article. Then is was
a champagne reception followed by a three course meal and then
the presentation of the certificates by Mark Rampakash of surrey
and England and the England Ladies Captain Charlotte Edwards."
Andy added: "It would have been lovely to have won, but
the standard of everyone nominated for the awards was high and
everyone had a great story to tell, I was just proud to be there
representing Birstall and Leicestershire."
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ATC cadets’ summer camp
TWELVE ATC cadets and three members of
staff from the 1947 (Birstall) Squadron had a successful camp
at Edale in Derbyshire during fine weather over the August Bank
Holiday weekend.
Pic: Cadets on Kinder, Edale Derbyshire
enjoying their adventure
training weekend.
Travelling by train from Leicester the squadron camped in
the Hope Valley at Edale, Squadron Leader Sarah Mayoh-Smith said:
"During Saturday the squadron split into two groups and
undertook map reading practice on the Kinder plateau, a unique
environment consisting of upland blanket bog.
"Equipped with new skills, the groups undertook their own
route on Sunday over Mam Tor and Loose Hill, although one team
managed to temporarily get lost!"
After reviewing the weekend, the cadets explored the village
of Edale, start of the long distance Pennine Way, with the help
of a quiz.
Wing Commander Nigel Dickinson visited the Squadron during August
for the annual inspection.
Escorted to the parade by the Chairman of the Civilian Committee,
Lynne Hill, the Wing Commander undertook a formal inspection.
With the squadron stood in open order, the Wing commander inspected
each cadet, chatting to many of them as he progressed through
the ranks. He was accompanied by the Wing Staff Officer, Squadron
Leader Sarah Mayoh-Smith and escorted by the Flight Commander,
Sergeant Roxanne Ameer-Beg.
Pic: Wing Commander Nigel Dickinson RAF (VR)
T
talking to Cadet Culey with Flight Lieutenant Ian Rose
RAF VR (T) Officer Commanding 1947 (Birstall) and
Squadron Leader Sarah Mayoh-Smith RAF VR (T) Wing
Staff Officer for the squadron.
After the parade, the Wing Commander inspected the squadron headquarters
and commented on the high standard of information for the cadets
and that projecting a professional image was important for the
organisation as a whole.
After chatting to the staff and reviewing performance for 2006,
the Wing Commander addressed all of the squadron during final
parade, presenting a variety of certificates and awards earned
by the cadets during the year.
The Wing Commander spoke positively about the changes that had
taken place at the squadron and praised all the cadets and staff
for the transformation.
1947 (Birstall) Squadron is currently recruiting cadets both
male and female. If you are aged between 13-18 and would like
to join the local air cadets they meet at Riverside Primary School
in Birstall on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7.15pm until
9.30pm. Find out more about the aircadets at www.aircadets.org
HATS off to Dick
WHO WAS the real Dick Turpin? This year the Highcliffe Amateur
Theatrical Society hopes to answer that question for you if you
come along so see their production of Dick Turpin, a pantomime
by Paul Reakes.
Pic: (l-r) Peter Benbow, Anne Wells and Josh
Slingsby
The show is, as usual, at Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane,
Birstall. It will be performed on Thursday and Friday, November
29 & 30 at 7.15pm, also on Saturday December 1 at 2.30pm
and again at 7.15pm. Doors are open half an hour before curtain
up. Tickets are £5 (£4 concessions) and can be ordered
by phoning 0116 2128757 or 07757854719 or by email to hatsbirstall@hotmail.co.uk.
There is a discount for parties of 10 or more.
Back to the question. Who was the real Dick Turpin? You could
look it up on Wikipedia but that's boring. The best idea would
be to come to the panto; a tale of both daring and dastardly
deeds, laughter, suspense and romance with the odd song and dance
thrown in. You know - the usual thing. Those of you have been
to HATS shows before will know that 'the usual thing' means an
evening of great fun and enjoyment - Oh, yes. It does!
Another reason to come to see the show is to buy tickets in our
raffle which this year is in aid of the BBC Radio Leicester Ruby
Rainbows Appeal.
It would not be right to end this article without the customary
appeal to you wonderful people of Birstall and its surroundings
to join HATS or help us in whatever way you can. We believe that
through the medium of amateur dramatics, the social life of the
village is enhanced and being a member of a group like ours will
benefit both yourself and the community. Besides that, it's great
fun!
If you are interested or want more information, call our secretary
on 0116 2128757 or email us at the above address.
From Rod Atkins
Charity runner
JAYNE SHENTON from the Birstall branch
of Henry Smith and Hamylton raised £787 by completing the
Robin Hood half marathon.
Pic: fundraising runner Jayne Shenton
Jayne was running to raise money for the Meningitis Research
Foundation and finished the race in a time of 2hrs 17mins.
She said: "The generosity and support of the people in Birstall
and surrounding villages was really overwhelming and I would
like to say a heartfelt thank you."
Fundraising Birstall women
THE WOMEN of Birstall Methodist Monday
Group have enjoyed another successful year of fundraising.
Pic: Alison Jones (Chairperson) presenting
the cheque to
Jo Grant and Alison Prior, with Chris Tilford
(Vice Chairperson) and members of the
Monday Women's Group.
Due to all the help and support they have received, they were
pleased to be able to present a cheque for £2000 to this
year's chosen charity 'The Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre'.
The money will be used to replace old equipment at the Leicester
Centre.
The money was raised by holding coffee mornings, Christmas tables,
raffles, Smartie Tubes, Jill's quizzes and a concert given by
Sassenbach Players.
Our next year's chosen charity will be 'The Laura Centre', the
bereavement centre for counselling families who have lost a child.
Connect2 bid
WATERMEAD COUNTRY Park is in the running
for £50million in a TV vote, having reached a final shortlist
of four schemes across the country that are bidding for funding.
Pic: children from local schools
create a jigsaw map of the bid
The major project to get people walking and cycling in the Watermead
Park area is a step closer as Sustrans' Connect2 Lottery bid
entered the intimate stage of the Big Lottery Fund's: The People's
£50million contest. The final shortlist was announced in
October and TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and former minister Charles
Clarke will lead the sustainable transport charity's bid to transform
local travel opportunities in Syston, Birstall, Thurmaston, Cossington,
linking into Leicester's established cycling network and across
the UK. Adam Hart Davies, Wayne Hemingway and Ken Livingstone
are among other high-profile supporters.
If Connect2 is successful in the People's Millions Contest, Watermead
would stand to benefit from over £1million. The scheme
would include a footpath and cycle path between Cossington and
Syston, convenient links to the park from Birstall and Thurmaston
which will link to the city's well-established cycling network
and a number of bridge improvements.
Four organisations, including 'Sustrans' Connect2 project, are
competing for the £50million grant to be decided by public
vote on ITV1 in December. Each project will be the subject of
a television programme on ITV1 in the week commencing December
3. Sustrans' Connect2 will be featured on Tuesday December 4.
Voting will take place online and by phone vote following the
TV shows. Online voting for The People's £50million Lottery
Giveaway will open at 9am on November 26 at www.thepeoples50million.org.uk
Telephone voting will be over the weekend December 7-10
Connect2 will improve local travel in 79 communities across the
UK by building walking and cycling bridges and tunnels, developing
links, and even reinstating a ferry. Connect2 will also bring
people closer together by making journeys quicker, healthier
and more convenient, say Sustrans.
A spokesman said: "From cyclists and leisure walkers to
commuters and schoolchildren, everyone will have a better quality
of life thanks to Connect2. Across the UK six million people
live within a mile of the proposed schemes, including one million
schoolchildren. It is estimated that 79,000 tonnes of carbon
emissions could be saved annually once the schemes are completed."
Sustrans' CEO John Grimshaw said: "Three years ago the National
Cycle Network was voted Britain's favourite large-scale, lottery-funded
project. Connect2 will build on the NCN and provide local opportunities
for people to combat two of the most pressing issues facing us
- obesity and climate change,. We ask anyone who would like to
see local travel transformed across the UK to vote for Connect2
in December."
To find out more about Connect2, and to register support , visit
www.sustransconnect2.org.uk or text Connect2 to 80010
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News from St James’
We did it! - Sponsored Walk to Lincoln
Members and friends of St James' enjoyed six days of fine weather
as they walked from Birstall to Lincoln at the end of August
to raise money for the alterations to the back of the church.
The Dean of Lincoln welcomed the group and prayed for the parish
at the service. After a tired but satisfied group was driven
back to Birstall, having made new friends, nursing blisters,
but also raising over £12,000 for the Screen Fund. Thank
you to all who helped in any way.
Watermead Mission Partnership Launch
Each parish of the Church of England is part of a diocese (Leicester
in our case) and clustered with other parishes in deaneries.
Times are changing and we are now encouraged to make links with
parishes with whom we feel able to work, to share ministry and
resources, and to support each other in mission. Birstall has
chosen, after a lot of thought, prayer and consultation, to join
a partnership consisting of Birstall, St Luke's, Stocking Farm,
Christ the King, Beaumont Leys, St Theodore's Rushey Mead, and
the Parish of the Resurrection in Leicester.
The service to launch the Watermead Mission Partnership was held
on Sunday October 14 at St James. It was attended by over 150
people and involved a choir drawn from all the partnership churches.
The Archdeacon of Leicester preached and commissioned the new
partnership. It was followed by refreshments in the Village Hall.
All Souls' Service
The Annual All Souls' Service takes place on Sunday November
4 at 3pm. It is open to everybody in Birstall and Wanlip, not
just church members. It is an opportunity to remember loved ones
who have died, whether recently or many years ago, and to light
a candle for them. The service is short and consists of readings,
music, prayers and hymns. Refreshments are served in church after
the service.
Special Services
The annual Remembrance Service will be held on Sunday November
11 at 10.30am in St James Church and on Sunday December 2 at
6pm the Churches Together in Birstall will be celebrating the
start of Advent with a service in St James Church.
Deserving medal winner
DAVE DRIVER, Birstall's assistant scout
leader, was awarded the Medal of Merit for his long service to
scouting by the County Commissioner Derek Catt.
Pic: Dave Driver (left) & Derek
Catt
Dave's scouting life spans over 35 yrs: before joining Birstall
he led the scout group in Beaumont Leys and he was a founder
leader of the Heatherbrook Scout Group.
Group Scout Leader Vic Dolby said: "Scouting has been celebrating
its centenary this year and I am sure you have all seen the media
coverage of these events, but without the dedicated leadership
of volunteers like Dave the movement would not be as strong as
it is today."
Birstall scouts are looking for new leaders to join their Beaver
section on a Tuesday night. Vic said: "If you have management
skills, like to have fun and can spare an hour and a half on
a Tuesday then come and give us a try. To be part of scouting
is fun, just ask Dave and all the other leaders involved in scouting
in Birstall."
Contact Vic Dolby on 0116 2671465
Birstall rugby
BIRSTALL RUGBY Club notched up another
win in their recent game against Castle Donington.
'Big' Chris Barbrook started the scoring off with a great solo
run through three opposing players before grounding the ball.
New boy Kieran Walker soon added a second.
There was no disguising Sam Maitland's pleasure at getting the
next, and his first Birstall try. Sam was voted the most improved
player for the 2006/07 season and had been itching to get his
tally going, now he has I'm sure he will be getting many more.
More tries from Captain Rupert Bedder, Tom Wright and two from
coach Chris Byrne along with a handful of conversions from Jeremy
Cross meant the game ended at 43-5 to Birstall RFC.
Club secretary and player David Bonser said: "Everyone at
the club is really up for it at the moment, all the work the
committee has put in over the past few seasons has paid off,
we have a massive number of young eager players that want to
play for Birstall. Steve McGuiness, our pro coach, is doing great
work with the lads, they have all come on in leaps and bounds"
He added: "Now we are well under way to having things sorted
out on the pitch we want to get the community part of the club
thriving again. We would love for everyone that lives in Birstall
to come down to our home games at Stonehill playing fields on
a Saturday and cheer us on. In particular we would love for all
ex-members of the club to get back in touch with the club. We
would like to organise some social events for the retired Birstall
players, let us know what we can do for you".
Weather report
September was an average month in terms
of temperature.
Pic: weather reporters Olivia Montague,
Remi Sargeant
& Toby Hay
Afternoon maximums averaged 19C. The warmest day was the 12th
when the temperature reached 24.4C in Birstall. The night time
temperature average was 9.3C
The coldest night was the 28th when the temperature dropped to
3.0C. It was actually the coolest September since 2001 and this
reflects the warmth of recent Septembers. The coldest day was
September 26th when the temperature only reached 11C which was
the coldest September day since 1993.
It was a very dry month. Only 34.6mm rain fell during the whole
month which is only half the usual figure. The wettest day was
23rd when 14mm rain fell.
The most dramatic weather occurred on 26th when an area of strong
winds and heavy rain affected us early on the Monday morning.
5mm rain fell in five minutes and this feature was called a Line
Squall!
There were 152 hours of sunshine, which was 5% above average.
The strongest winds occurred on the 26th when they reached 35
mph.
So, in summary, an average month for temperature, but the rainfall
was only half the usual amount.
Bowls club
THE OUTDOOR season finished last month
for bowlers at Birstall Bowling Club.
Pic: Head Chef Richard Coulson
prepares for action, ably assisted by Pa Walker
The highlight of the season was the ladies club's achievement
in winning three county titles in their Golden Jubilee year.
The men were promoted to the first division of the Leicester
League and there were three winners trophies secured in the Leicester
City and District Parks competitions.
Towards the end of the season, there were three club competition
finals days. After the last of these a barbecue was held and
thanks go to John & Pa Walker and 'Head Chef' Richard Coulson
for preparing the food. The season concluded with Ladies' President
Val Hollis and Men's President Colin Wood holding their respective
President's Days.
The club competition winners for the year are listed below.
Ladies Winners
Championship: Diane Hurst, Runner Up: Pa Walker
Handicap: Pa Walker, Runner Up: Pam Ratcliffe
Maiden: Pa Walker, Runner Up: Anne Boden
Three Wood: Pa Walker, Runner Up: Pam Ratcliffe
Two Wood: Diane Hurst, Runner Up: Mary France
Pairs: Pa Walker & Val Hollis, Runners Up: Pam McMahon &
Betty Price
Men's Winners
Championship: Andy Wye, Runner Up: Colin Wood
Handicap: Bob Cooper, Runner Up: Gary Norman
Maiden: Bob Cooper, Runner Up: Richard Coulson
Three Wood: Dave Clarke, Runner Up: Grahame White
Two Wood: Dick Cooper, Runner Up: Dave Clarke
Pairs: John Healey & Mark LeGood, Runners Up: John Lee &
Dave Clarke
Club Night Cup: Mick Ross, Runner Up: Ross Durance
Mixed Competition Winners
Saunders Cup: Jan Everitt & Andy Why, Runners Up: Chris Winder
& Dave Clarke
Adnett Pairs: Diane Hurst & John Eaton, Runners Up: Pa Walker
& Gary Norman
Club Open: Andy Wye, Runner Up: Jan Hunt
For more information about the club you can visit the Birstall
Bowling Club website www.birstallbowling.co.uk
Cruise winner
A MIDLANDS Co-op Travel agent has cruised
her way to a fantastic trip, thanks, to Norwegian Cruise Lines
(NCL).
Pic: Charlotte Gemmell, Sales
Consultant at Midlands Co-op Travel's
Birstall shop in Leicester pictured with
Mike Coombs, Retail Key Accounts
Manager for Norwegian Cruise Lines.
Charlotte Gemmell, Sales Consultant at Midlands Co-op Travel's
Birstall shop has won a five night cruise to the Caribbean.
The competition was open to all Co-op travel staff across the
country that made an NCL booking between May 1 and June 30, 2007.
All bookings were entered into a prize draw and Charlotte was
chosen as the lucky winner.
Charlotte said : "I couldn't believe it when I had hard
that I'd won. I will be starting my cruise from Miami and then
heading for Cozumel and Grand Cayman - I'm very excited. Cruise
holidays are becoming increasingly popular with our customers,
and it will be good to get some first-hand knowledge of what
Freestyle Cruising is all about."
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WI news
AT BIRSTALL & Wanlip WI's October meeting,
the President, Mrs Dorothy Gregory, welcomed two ladies who had
come along to our meeting, having read an article about our Institute
in the Birstall Post.
Our speaker was Mrs Lynn Mellor, who gave her talk 'A Christmas
Box Full of Customs'. This was a most interesting and intriguing
insight into the customs associated with Christmas.
The vote of thanks was given by Mrs Freda Jones.
The next meeting will be on Monday November 5, 7.15pm at Highcliffe
School, Greengate Lane, Birstall when the speaker will be Mrs
Nancy Rushton and her talk is entitled 'Me, My Men and Middle
Age'.
From Mary Belton
NHW news
Crimestoppers Goes On-line for Young People
Crimestoppers has launched a website aimed at young people www.shadowcs.co.uk.
The site which recently went live has games, competitions, reviews,
celebrity gossip, char forums and a guide to law. Parents please
encourage your people to check out the site. It should be remembered
that only a small minority of young people are involved in committing
crime - but most young people in some way or another have been
affected by crime.
Crimestoppers began nationally in 1988 - has led to 75,000 arrests
- the recovery of £95 million of property and seized drugs
worth £130 million.
Remember that to ring Crimestoppers costs nothing, free telephone
0800 555111. You can remain anonymous - just leave details of
your concerns. A typical tip-off may for instance concern someone
who is known not to work - but have a flashy car - top of the
range designer clothes, holidays abroad, lots of gold jewellery
on display. 'Too much bling - give us a ring'.
Remember that through Crimestoppers you can make a difference
to reducing crime in your community.
Ed Marshall, Chairman, Birstall & Wanlip Neighbourhood
Watch
Expert’s visit
A PAINTING and decorating expert visited
Longslade to talk to students and get them involved in practical
exercises.
Peter Draper, a consultant who assesses the competence of tradesmen,
spent half a day with around 20 students on the BTEC construction
course.
One of the subjects he demonstrated was paint effects : rag rolling,
stippling and stencilling.
Construction teacher Mr Peter Plant said: "The day went
extremely well, he showed a variety of skills and the students
were captivated."
Your Say...
The Tesco spokeswoman said "Tesco is progressing its
proposed Express store for Birstall and continues to work closely
with the appropriate local authority who represents the community".
Could this spokeswoman give the details of the local authority
who worked closely with Tesco? Most Birstall people did not know
anything about this development until the wine shop was demolished:
even then Tesco denied that they were involved and said "look
elsewhere, Tesco does not use a third party". Who is Mr
Lunn?
I notice that the drive in to the side of the store has a much
curved entrance. Will this allow the very big lorries to back
down to the side of the store and leave little or no room for
the pedestrians to walk on the footpath? Also will the weight
of the lorries distort the little bricks? A firm foundation is
required! Tesco cannot have any parking concessions and take
away parking places from the Birstall people.
I don't know where the Morrison story came from, but it could
be feasible. Sir Ken is an ambitious man and wants to take third
place from Lord Sainsbury who seems to have lost interest in
the grocery trade. Ambition is made of sterner stuff! Asda and
Tesco are watching each other since Tesco declared an interest
in the USA and allowed sir Ken to make a move. Is that the reason
why Tesco came in the back door? Tesco does not want to give
anything away. Their motto is 'every little helps - for Tesco'
The back door method is quicker. The Morrison stores at Coalville
and Leicester are good.
Steve Lewis Roberts, planning officer at Charnwood for Hallam
Fields development said that the builders are free to sell land
to other developers for alternative uses to housing. Any 106
agreements negotiated with Jelsons would transfer to the new
owners. Does this mean that Jelsons can alter their plans, but
we cannot do anything? I don't know when this 106 agreement started
(it could have been many years ago), but though it might help
in the short term, in the longer term it causes nothing but trouble.
Just before the last council elections I read where one councillor
boasted how he obtained concessions from the developers. Does
he really believe that!
Isn't it about time we knew the plans for the A6/A46 and Mountsorrel
area? I was told that a person who was a member of the Thurcaston
group that successfully opposed the connection at Thurcaston
later supported development on the Mountsorrel bypass. Where
is the logical thinking?
Les Briers
I was amazed to read in my local newspaper The Birstall Post
that yet another booze outlet was coming to our village. [Tesco]
I would like my disapproval to be heard and noted before any
final decision is made. Six outlets must surely be enough.
Parking would be impossible unless it becomes legal to park on
the pavements (many seem to think it is).
We would need a traffic warden of our own
A J Cooke
I would like to thank Phil Parrott for taking photos of the
Birstall Village Cricket Club Presentation Night. Unfortunately
Rose Parrott was ill on the night and missed the evening but
Phil took some great pictures of the individual and team winners
at short notice.
Andy Corbett
May I take this opportunity to thank the residents of Blenheim
Road, Laxton Close and Keswick Close for their generous donations
to the LOROS house-to-house envelope collection during September.
You raised £70.63 - well done everyone
Katherin Dunne
A very big thank you to all who supported the Marie Curie
Table Top sale in the Methodist Church Hall on Saturday October
13. £210.23p was raised.
Thanks from Gillian & Joan
In reply to Simon Castleman's letter regarding the Birstall
Gala.
First of all I am not against the council and their members.
I have got on very well with members eg Keith Woods, and former
council member Nigel Coleman who has been a terrific supporter
of our gym. One other point Mr Castleman has missed giving a
mention to, the £100 they wanted off myself to erect a
ring. Let me close on this subject now by saying that I have
been very lucky here in Birstall by the Birstall public who have
been marvellous to me.
In fact can I thank Daphne Stephenson from St Theresa's Church
of Whiles Lane for their fantastic effort fundraising for Gunns
gym. They collected £128.65 and I enjoyed a marvellous
time at the church. They also gave me a pair of boxing gloves
and a mascot. It's people like these that make my job worthwhile.
Once again thank you very much St Theresa's Tuesday club
Carl Gunns
Residents living along the route that bus service No.99 travels
may have noticed that Paul Winson has provided passengers with
a super new bus for the comfort and convenience of all passengers
but older people in particular.
As this vehicle is a little longer and wider than before it would
be very much appreciated by our driver Steve that where people
park on the road they make sure sufficient room is left for the
new bus to pass.
Raymond J Hunt
Following on from my article in the Birstall Post July issue
I had a good response and am able to say that there is a small
establishment of hedgehogs resident in an area of Birstall which
is good news for us.
This year hedgehogs have been declared 'protected species' which
is all the more reason for us to make every effort in looking
after these harmless little creatures.
Now that winter is approaching no doubt hedgehogs will be looking
for places to hibernate in the garden, underneath sheds and in
a place that will offer some warmth, quiet and to be dry during
the months when the grubs and bugs are no longer available for
them top eat during the cold months ahead. Log piles and compost
heaps are ready made homes for hedgehogs, however if you wanted
to buy a purpose built hedgehog hibernating nesting box to place
in your garden they are available for sale through me at a cost
of £15. The box is felt roofed and includes an access tunnel
for hedgehogs. It is best placed in a quiet spot in the garden
amongst shrubbery not on a north or north easterly wall because
of the chilly northerly winds. This money goes towards the rescue
and caring needed for sick and injured hedgehogs.
Some hedgehogs that we rescue are not able to be released back
into the wild because they are either blind, have lost a leg
or for some reason would not survive in the wild. Some hedgehogs
just need fostering for a short time in a secure garden. Hedgehogs
in these situations are released into secure gardens where owners
are able to provide food if necessary and just monitor the hedgehog
if required.
A secure garden is one that is either walled, has fencing boarded
onto lawns, gravel board/mesh wire dug into the ground below
fence panels around the gardens as hedgehogs can dig out!
If you think that you have a secure garden and would like to
help out in some way please ring me on the number below.
As always a hedgehog seen out in the day is unwell and needs
carefully scooping up immediately and placing in a box with a
towel and or shredded newspaper and keeping warm in a dark place.
Please ring me straight away and hopefully we will be able to
help save another hedgehog.
Jane Muggleton
Tel: 0116 2676769; Mob. 07970 177 437
In reply to C Gunns' letter in the Birstall Post.
I think the Council was correct in what they did. The money that
Carl Gunns got from sponsorship and all those grants plus charging
£1 per hour, having 700 visits up to now in the school
holidays, if they do two hours, that equals £1,400. What
about the soccer teams whose expenses are far more. They have
run teams for years at no financial gain, taken their boys and
girls off the streets and running them to matches.
Why does he keep advertising for more members? Is it because
he wants the Council to build a bigger place for his gym and
get more than £1 per hour.
Name & address supplied
I am writing in defence of my letter published in the September
issue under the heading 'Roll on Tesco'.
Les Briers wrote in and was complaining that Tesco was using
a back door method, well he hasn't written in for a while, and
did they get permission to knock down the previous building and
Dr McNeil was saying about the site's history, they were on about
lorries clogging up that part of Sibson Road.
I said creating a Tesco will create more jobs, they said how
many jobs were lost because of the new Tesco. Dr McNeil said
a correspondent had shot himself in the foot. In answer to their
questions it's Dr McNeil and Les Briers who have shot themselves
in their feet.
There were no jobs to be lost because the Victoria Wine shop
has been closed for a year, possibly longer. Obviously no-one
wanted to take it over. It is far better having a new building
than an empty one which could have gangs of yobs hanging around
it and leaving cans lying around. Obviously Dr McNeil didn't
mind that part of Sibson Road being clogged up when the Victoria
Wine shop was in use, which I thought was rather strange. The
doctor made out that it was an ancient building - it wasn't.
I was stunned to read that dear old Les Briers said if people
wish to shop at Tesco, why not use the new bus service and shop
at Beaumont Leys, as the bus there is free from 9.30am if you
are 60 or more. He obviously didn't read the other letters -
people will still have to get two buses there and back and have
to carry really heavy loads. Do you understand now Les?
There must be plenty of people in Birstall who want a Tesco,
so come on, don't be afraid and let the likes of Les Briers and
Dr McNeil bully you and silence you into a corner. So rally round
the good people of Birstall and use your voice to support Tesco.
Name & address supplied
Tesco opening a metro store in Birstall seems to have upset
a lot of people, but nothing was said about yet another estate
agent that sells no goods for normal shopping, and solicitors
selling houses.
Hallam fields site: more worry should be given on the water table
problems, with storm water from street drains seemingly getting
worse in Saltersgate Drive and Birstall Island.
Geoff Stock
What a strange firm is Tesco. In building a new store in Birstall,
albeit one of their smaller Express shops, most people surely
would have expected Tesco to be advertising this fact loud and
clear, extolling this as yet another of its retail outlets, another
facility for shoppers in Birstall. Strangely no, the exact opposite
has taken place : initially it was in denial and then very reluctant
to admit to buying the site and building shop premises plus two
flats above. Its coyness, its secretive tiptoeing into Birstall
is very hard to understand. Perhaps the reason is that Tesco
has misgivings about choosing such an unsuitable site and is
now somewhat embarrassed about it. As Stuart Jones, the chairman
of Birstall Parish Council has rightly said, it is in the wrong
position and it will cause parking problems and traffic congestion.
I feel sorry for Mr Borrajo, the vet, with premises on the opposite
side of Sibson Road. No doubt a lot of Tesco shoppers will park
their cars on his car park : he will find it difficult to prevent
this unless he has a security guard on his entrance when his
surgery is open. He could even lose clients who find the parking
spaces they need being occupied by drivers going to the Tesco
shop.
Charnwood Borough Council has made the wrong decision and has
let down the people of Birstall. The Liberal Democrat councillors
who were on Charnwood Borough Council at the time planning permission
was granted to Tesco have been noticeably silent about the situation.
It would be interesting to hear what they have to say about it.
Now I hear that Tesco wants to have the bus stop moved to another
position on Sibson Road. What cheek. Surely this means that Tesco
expects their huge delivery lorries being able to park and unload
outside at any time. Their deliveries should be restricted to
early morning, say before 6.30am or in the evening after 8pm.
Are you listening Charnwood Borough Council?
In The Crossways there is a vacant plot of land which has been
vacant and horribly overgrown for years and years : a very unsatisfactory
state of affairs. When Tesco applied for planning permission
for a shop it should have been told by Charnwood Borough Council
that if it bought that vacant plot it could have planning permission
for that site. A shop there would have been opposite a public
car park and if Tesco had wanted, as it probably would have done,
the car park to remain open until the time it closed the shop,
I am sure an agreement could have been reached with Birstall
Parish Council for Tesco to be responsible for locking the car
park at night. This would have lessened the work of the caretaker
employed by Birstall Parish Council who is responsible for locking
The Crossways car park as well as the cemetery and the car park
in School Lane each night.
Incidentally, why has that vacant plot in The Crossways been
allowed to remain vacant and horribly overgrown, an eyesore,
for so many years? Is it the fault of Charnwood Borough Council
or Birstall Parish Council? I understand that the two persons
who each own part of the plot are reluctant to sell their portions
(if they don't pay council tax they should be doing so). If nobody
wants to buy the site for a house or a shop why could not it
have been compulsorily purchased by either Charnwood Borough
Council or Birstall Parish Council and the site used for additional
car parking?
Jex Woods
Corbett’s cricket corner
BIRSTALL VILLAGE Cricket Club held their
Presentation Night at the Birstall Social Club and this year
the club had a joint presentation with the senior and junior
sections all together.
Pic: George Corbett and John
Maunders with the Rose Parrott Trophy
Pic: Josh Saye 1st team Player
of the Year with
a miniature bat for scoring 100 runs in a match.
Pic: Mark Forknall, 2nd team Player
of the Year
Pic: Steve Findley, Chairman's
Clubman of the Year
Pic: Under 11 team with the under
11 County Cup shield
John Maunders formerly of Middlesex and Leicestershire came to
present the awards. Winners of the 1st team awards were Josh
Saye Player of the Year and Batsman of the Year, Pete Sharpe
Bowler of the Year.
The 2nd team winners were Mark Forknall Batsman and Player of
the Year and Steve Findley Bowler of the Year. The Clubman of
the Year is Steve Findley.
All the junior teams had individual awards. The under 10 Kwik
Cricket teams received a medal for representing the club. The
Under 11 team were presented with the County Cup under 11 shield
and individual trophies.
The Rose Parrott award for the most outstanding junior was won
by George Corbett. Judge Head Coach Rob Drake said: "Even
though George is only 11 he has played for the adult 2nd team,
opened the batting in a game for the under 17s and under 15s
District team, was Bowler of the Year for the Birstall under
13 team, was Player of the Year for the Leicestershire Young
Cricketers under 11 team and Captain of the Birstall under 11
County Cup winning team".
There has been more good news for the club, Birstall won the
Wisden Cricketer Magazine Club of the Month for September and
have now been told they have won the overall Club of the Year
Award. The judges were impressed with the mural on the clubhouse
and the success of the junior section, especially the under 11
team winning the County Cup and having five Leicestershire Young
Cricketers in the team. The prize of a kit bag full of equipment
and certificate will be presented next month.
The junior indoor cricket nets will run every Saturday 5-6pm
at the Soar Valley Leisure Centre in Mountsorrel starting from
October 27 through until the end of March. John Maunders will
be there to coach and give advice to the juniors. The cost will
be £2 per session.
Charnwood’s community grants
COMMUNITY GROUPS looking for a cash boost
to fund major projects can now find it even easier to apply for
money from Charnwood Borough Council.
Pic: Cllr Richard Shepherd meets
Jeff Kennington or All Saints'Church Thurcaston who received
a grant of £5000 for their new community room.
Charnwood Grants has been set up by the Authority to give organisations,
groups and, in some cases, individuals straightforward advice
on how to make a claim for financial support. As well as offering
new funding opportunities, Charnwood Grants brings together a
number of existing schemes, including community facility and
development, arts, historic buildings, sports and leisure plus
social enterprise under the same banner.
Cllr Richard Shepherd, the Leader of Charnwood Borough Council,
said: "The Community Grant scheme is designed to help those
who would like to apply for funding find the application process
as easy as possible. At Charnwood Borough Council we are always
seeking to improve the ways in which we work with residents."
Steve Phipps, Charnwood's Director of Partnerships and Customer
Services, said: "The Council has given a wide range of community
and group projects support through the various grant schemes
available. These projects have resulted in residents benefiting
from better facilities, access to services, improved community
and much more. If you or your organisation has a project or an
idea that needs support to grow, then Charnwood Grants could
be the ideal opportunity."
All Saints' Church Thurcaston successfully applied for £5000
towards a much needed on site community room. It will be used
to stage Sunday school, while pre-school groups and other community
organisations will also be able to meet there.
Jeff Kennington, the Deputy Church Warden at All Saints' Church,
said: "Application forms to undertake such projects can
be a daunting job but with the help of the Charnwood Grants website,
and one or two very helpful and encouraging telephone calls,
the form was soon completed and in the post. For us it was a
seamless and straightforward process and we feel the Community
Grant has helped as a catalyst in obtaining further grants. Thank
you Charnwood!"
Talented fencer Rachel Hamson, who has won six medals this year
in the nationwide Leon Paul Junior Series Under 15 competition
- including three golds in a row- has benefited from a grant
from Charnwood Sports Council, which will now be part of the
Charnwood Grants scheme.
Rosalind Hamson, mum of the 13-year-old, said: "The Talent
Support grant from Charnwood Sports Council which Rachel receives
is helping to ensure she can attend these competitions and can
have the best coaching and equipment possible to enhance her
success."
Charnwood Grants can also offer support to projects with large
targets by offering guidance and advice on other opportunities
that may be available.
To find out more information about Charnwood Grants, call the
Grants Administration Team on 01509 634 556 or log on to www.charnwood.gov.uk/community/charnwoodgrants.html
Choir concert
THE HIGHCLIFFE Harmony Choir hosted a concert
as part of the international day of Voices for Hospices in October.
Each concert raised money for a local hospice and Highcliffe
Harmony chose Rainbows. They were joined by three other choirs
- Highcliffe Primary School, Cantorum from Lutterworth and Yavana
from Sutton Bonington, and raised nearly £800.
The concert turned out to be a very emotional occasion as Carolyn
Necklen, the choir's conductor, lost her father only two days
earlier. She returned to Leicestershire in order that the concert
should go ahead. She said: "I know it was what my Dad would
have wanted and I could do this as a tribute to him."
She added: "I would like to give huge thanks to the singers
who, not only took care of all the supporting arrangements such
as sorting out refreshments, but also gave of their very, very
best in the concert. The audience could not help but notice that
something rather special was happening. Thank you also for the
support and condolences from many of the parents of children
in the choir."
Two of the pieces sung at the concert, Indian Prayer and Live
Free were recorded and played at the funeral. Many people commented
on the appropriateness of the words and the expressive singing.
Highcliffe Harmony hosts another concert in the village on Saturday
November 17 in Birstall Methodist Church at 7.30pm in aid of
National Children's Homes.
The Lawn cinema remembered
The Lawn Cinema Remembered : Part Three
One of the problems met by the young Lawn goer in the thirties
was restricted entry.
Whilst films with a U certificate were deemed suitable for even
the youngest and tenderest of minds, an A certificate meant that
you were not allowed to see the film unless accompanied by an
adult. As very few of us went with our parents it seemed that
the most desirable films, that is those with crime, violence
and what would now seem the tamest of romantic situations, were
out of our reach. But drastic rules demanded drastic action and
we would brazenly stand on the forecourt and, with a quick and
what in retrospect seemed unerring assessment of character, approach
sympathetic adults, entrance money on show between thumb and
forefinger, with the heartfelt request "would you take us
in please?" Of course once admitted you shot off and sat
on your own. What today would seem the most obvious danger was
in those days of innocence something of which we were quite unaware.
But one film brought all these whiles to nought. Boris Karloff's
'Bride of Frankenstein' had an X rating and no one under 16 was
allowed in, even with an adult, although one lanky juvenile in
borrowed long trousers beat the blockade. And still living in
Birstall are two senior citizens who, as young men, reinforced
the dignity of their long trousers, by painting on their upper
lips rather dashing Ronald Coleman/Clark Gable type moustaches,
but Bert's eagle eye penetrated their ruse and they were turned
back.
As a young cinema goer Tuesday was important for me, for that
was the day when my father would set out from our house on Sibson
Road to cycle to work at Whetstone and return at night with his
copy of Wireless World (he was an amateur radio builder) and
my copy of film Fun. What joy to see my comic heroes not only
on the screen but to enjoy their adventures in comic strip form.
Though I never did understand why, Harold Lloyd and Buster Keaton
appeared in Film Fun, when their films were never seen at the
Lawn. It didn't matter that my father explained that these two
were famous for their silent films to me that meant that they
were just old fashioned and should be forgotten. It was not until
many years later that I realised that even the editor of Film
Fun enjoyed a little bit of nostalgia.
When war was declared I, as a 12 year old, was largely unaware
of the many tensions and personal crises that it brought. Cinema
going was largely unaffected although the glass in the swing
doors was painted black, the lighting in the foyer was much reduced
and somewhere along the line the commissionaire disappeared.
Air raids caused few cinematic problems and it was not until
September 1940 that the sirens would occasionally resound early
enough to interfere with the show. At such times a slide would
appear advising us that, despite the warning, the programme would
continue, although those who wished to could leave for home.
I had strict instructions to leave, which I did with reluctance.
The intriguing thing about the air raid notice was that, unlike
the commercial slides during the interval, the film was kept
running whilst it was shown, which made for rather confusing
viewing of both the entertainment and the warning.
As the war progressed the Lawn was used for purposes other than
entertainment. There were occasional instructional film shows
for Home Guard and Civil Defence groups and once, as a keen member
of the ATC I recollect a Combined Cadet Parade complete with
drum and bugle band which culminated in us all shuffling into
the Lawn and being patriotically uplifted by a harangue delivered
by a local bigwig.
But the finest and most popular events at the Lawn during wartime
were the Sunday concerts by the Legionnaires concert party, every
one of which was a sell out. Queues which formed early snaked
out of the cinema's front doors and down and round the side and
back. There were six Legionnaires. In the photograph they are,
left to right, Jim Sarson, Bill Payne, Fred Sleath, Ray Loakes
and Steve Farmer, at the piano is Norman Freestone. I felt that
I knew them better than mere performers, for Steve, Ray and Jim
were fathers of friends I knew at school,. Bill Payne, with a
magnificent voice, was my best friend's uncle whilst Fred Sleath,
whose forte was Stanley Holloway monologues lived next door to
us and had been in France with my father. Norman Freestone had
not only been to our house, but he had played on our piano. Indeed
if there was such a thing as 'celebrity cult' in Birstall at
that time then I felt that I was at its heart.
Next month: Post war boom and post war bust. I find out what
the double seats are for.
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