Birstall Post April 2007 (285) cont.

New help

A TEACHER from Longslade has volunteered to help out at Carl Gunns gym.

Pic: Volunteer Angela Robinson

"I read about Carl's gym and how he needed volunteers and I wanted to help out" says Angela Robinson (25) an English, Media Studies and Film teacher.
Every Monday and Friday evening Angela volunteers at the gym, signing members in, supervising the younger children and even helping some young people improve their English during breaks.
"I'm really enjoying it here, it's nice for the kids to get to know me as a person and not just see me as a teacher - some were quite shocked when they saw me here the first time!" said Angela.

Try HATS for size

THE HIGHCLIFFE Amateur Theatrical Society (HATS) has to regretfully announce that there will be no spring production this year.

Although many of you will have read in the March edition of the Birstall Post that we were performing Bedroom Farce by Alan Ayckbourn, this was an error. We apologise for the misinformation. We have had to take this decision because of dwindling membership. However, we are pushing ahead with plans for our usual pantomime at the end of November this year, so keep an eye on the Birstall Post, in the autumn for more details.

If HATS is to survive we have to attract new members of all ages. To this end, we are holding an open evening in Greengate Hall at Highcliffe School on Wednesday, May 16 starting at 7.30pm. Entrance is free and refreshments, a hand buffet and a glass of wine or soft drink will, be provided. There will be displays and demonstrations and a couple of short playlets to give you an idea of what we do. There will also be an opportunity for you to help us raise money for the BBC Radio Leicester Ruby Rainbows Appeal by buying a ticket in the raffle we are holding.
HATS membership is mainly drawn from the Birstall area but one or two come from a little further afield. Ages range from 12 to 112 (well nearly!). We are a friendly group and don't take ourselves too seriously but we do strive to put on high quality productions. We need more actors, scenery designers/constructors, people interested in sound and lighting and in helping with costumes.
Two of our regular members are there to help newcomers settle in and be the first point of contact for anyone who thinks they might like to join us. You can call Jez on 0116 2661643 or Mavis on 0116 2671666. You don't have to wait for the open evening if you're interested. Give one of them a call now.
We begin informal auditions for the pantomime in June and rehearsals start at the beginning of the school winter term.
Come to our open evening on Wednesday May 16 and find out more.

Panthers’ charity match

A BIRSTALL resident and former Leicester Panthers player will put on his kit for the first time in 10 years to play in a charity match.

Craig Broughton (38, and pictured above) will be part of the Leicester Panthers American football team that has reformed to play in the Matt Hampson Bowl, a fundraising game against the Loughborough University Aces on Bank Holiday Monday May 28 at the Leicester Tigers ground on Welford Road.
Craig said: "We have all been training really hard since last November to get fit to play and with the help of the Leicester Tigers we hope to raise thousand of pounds for the Matt Hampson fund, which was set up to help Matt Hampson, a Leicester Tigers and England under 21 rugby player who was paralysed while playing rugby."
Tickets are available from the Leicester Tigers Ticket Office, Welford Road, Leicester. They are £5 each and under 14s are free. All money raised will go directly to the Matt Hampson fund.

Parish Council notes

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on March 12.
In response to a question from a resident, it was reported that the hedge along the School Lane boundary of the playing field is being replaced with hawthorn and that the swings have not been repaired yet as the council is in the process of applying for a grant for the work.
Police Inspector Cathy Yallop, Commander of the Charnwood Local Policing Unit, has been invited to the May meeting of the Council.
It was reported that on Saturday February 24 four men had entered the School Lane changing rooms pretending to be team members of the away side. Subsequently a theft was discovered. The manager decided to tour the area recognised the men on Sibson Road, called the Police and the stolen items were recovered.

Bus card

A FREE bus card for pensioners and the disabled has proved popular.
Launched by Charnwood Borough Council on March 1, more than 23,000 'Gold Cards' have been distributed and 3000 new applications received since February 26.
The card provides free off-peak bus travel across Leicestershire and the East Midlands, half price before 9.30am and reduced rates on trains between Leicester, Nottingham and Derby.
Cllr Max Hunt, the leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: "Mobility for older people and disabled people is worth such a lot and this scheme has provided them with the opportunities to travel and maintain independence and has improved their quality of life".
For more details, or to apply for a Charnwood Gold Card, please call 01509 634561 or email concessionary.travel@charnwood.gov.uk

Students’ Florida trip

TWENTY GRAPHICS students from Longslade Community College recently visited Orlando, USA to experience some of the attractions and to learn first hand from the Disney team a range of design and animation skills.

Students visited the four parks within the Walt Disney World Resort and experienced a range of diverse educational activities run by the youth education team. These included the dynamics and development of technology - the people and processes that challenge and inspire technological development, and animation magic- the use of technology in the production of famous animated characters.
Students also visited the NASA Kennedy Space Centre where they experienced a workshop about how probes and satellites are used to collect and communicate vital information over large distances.
Trip leader Sandeep Tara said: "It's great for students to learn in such stimulating and cutting edge environments rather than being restricted to the classroom. They also have the opportunity to apply what is learnt at college into a global context."
Study experiences representative Elanor Jackson said: "The Longslade staff and students have a unique relationship of mutual respect for one another, they embody all that is great about British education".
Student Glenn Sedgwick said: "I enjoyed learning about how dependent we've become on technology, without it things would be extremely basic".

News from St James

AS SPRINGTIME dawns and we celebrate the beauty of nature around us, this month brings new life for the Christian community too.
Looking back, during Lent ecumenical study groups met, thinking about the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery. The course focused on the efforts of the Christian abolitionist Mr William Wilberforce. A special service was also held at Our Lady and St Nicholas Wanlip on March 25, commemorating Wanlip's Ethiopian ex-slave, Rasselas Morjan, buried in the churchyard in 1839. Lent was therefore a time of spiritual renewal and of engaging with wider social questions.
In April, our parish marks the events of Holy Week and Easter, the climax of the Christian story. On Palm Sunday April 1, we re-enact Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem with a palm procession from the Village Hall at 9.15am (service at St James at 9.30am). On Good Friday, April 6, there will be an outdoor ecumenical service on the old bowling green (Sibson Road) at 10am. This replaces the previous walk of witness. Then at St James the Meditative Last Hour of the Cross (with Taizé music) at 2pm. On Easter Day we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from 6am at Wanlip, with a service of light and Easter vigil and at 10am at St James with an all-age family communion. All are welcome.
At St James we have an imaginative new plan for a screen at the back of the church, between the old and the new parts of the building. The ancient church of St James was extended in 1963 to provide increased worship space for the enlarged congregations and village. The modern church is used on Sundays and for baptisms, weddings and funerals, and the sanctuary of the old church is used for mid-week services. We now have a vision, developed over many years, for opening up the back of St James for church and community activity. It will also complete the architectural changes first introduced when the extension took place.
Skilled ecclesiastical architects have developed plans, including a glass screen between the old and new church, and a glass porch. The screen will have glass doors, enabling easy access. Furthermore, at larger services seating will still be provided at the back of the church to ensure full participation in worship.
On his recent visit to St James, the Bishop of Leicester launched our formal appeal for the new screen. St James is the Parish Church for Birstall, and these new facilities are intended for the benefit of local community activity. Donations towards the appeal are therefore invited - please contact the Rector, James Shakespeare, on 2674517. If you wish to know more about these plans, or express your views, visit St James and see our re-ordering display at the back (church open every Saturday 10am-12noon and on Sundays 8am-12noon) or speak to the Rector.
Easter Greeting to you all.
From Rev James Shakespeare, Rector

NHW news

WHICH ORGANISATION in Birstall has the largest membership? Which organisation has the most volunteer helpers?
Not difficult questions if you've read the heading to this article, as they say on the television, the clues are there!
Just how big is the Birstall & Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch?
There are 111 streets/roads in Birstall, two of them have no houses (can you name these two?) and of the remaining 109 there are 103 with NHW schemes covering all or part of the road. There is also another Watch scheme covering the whole of Wanlip village. Each of these schemes is led by a total of 143 contacts/co-ordinators. The Watch issues approximately 3000 membership cards to households each year.
Over 3500 copies of our monthly newsletter are delivered to individual homes each month. They are delivered to the co-ordinators by a group of 10 volunteers. We hold 12 committee meetings each year and three 'open' meetings for members. There are 12 Advice Shops on Saturday mornings, and we are a noticeable presence at the Village Gala each year.
This year we will be starting our invasion of Hallam Fields and hope to have a 'beachhead' established during the summer.
The fact is, that if you are not part of the Watch then you are in a minority in the village. Don't be left out, come and join us. If you live in one of those six streets/roads with no membership (we know who you are!), you will receive an especially warm welcome.
Watch telephone: 0116 2676397
Watch website: www.villagewatch.co.uk
Allan Kinton (Treasurer) Birstall & Wanlip Village Watch

Breast care fundraising

EIGHT YEARS ago a young mum from Birstall set up a breast cancer awareness group, after being diagnosed at the age of 33.

Pic: (l-r) back row, Liz Darlison, Ward Sister Angela Cherry, Ward Manager Helen Maxfield, Jo Preston, Helen Carnan; front row, Emma Shaw and Rachael Boyall

Clare Wells along with four friends organised various functions to raise money and awareness. She wanted to promote the importance of self examination in all ages and successfully raised £4000. Clare lost her battle in 2003 but her friends decided to carry on fighting this cause in her memory, to continue to raise awareness and to continue to raise money. To date they have raised £10,500. Emma Shaw said: "The last event was a live band 'hailcarta' and a disco at the Birstall Social Club, which was a great success, raising over £1700. We have decided to donate the money to Glenfield Breast Care Unit, who are setting up a quiet/prosthesis room for patients. Our next event will be on Sunday July 1, meeting on Whiles Lane at 11am for a 5k walk/run/bike ride". All ages are welcome and the entry fee is £5. If you need a sponsor form or would like to donate a raffle prize or bake a cake for our stall contact Emma 07973958338 or Racheal 07987822173

Author visits college

LEICESTER AUTHOR Bali Rai visited Longslade Community College in March to talk to students about his life and work.

Pic: Bali Rai with members of Longslade's Book Club

Born in Leicester Bali Rai graduated in politics and worked as a cinema attendant before becoming an author.
Bali took part in three sessions throughout the day with all key stages in the College as well as students and staff from Stonehill and Anstey Martin High Schools who had come to listen to his talk. He spoke about his favourite authors, Sue Townsend and Roald Dahl and what influenced him to become a writer: wanting to write a book that, as a teenager, he would have wanted to read.
At lunch time, Bali Rai held an exclusive session with members of Longslade's Book Club. Member Catherine Rich (15) said: "We talked out politics and paying taxes. His recent book 'Politics: Cutting through the Crap' showed his biased opinion on the political system of today's society, and what we all can do to learn how to distinguish between the truth and lies. All students and staff would like to say a massive thank you to Bali Rai for giving such an interesting and amusing talk."
His newest adventure 'The Angel Collector' is out soon.
From Catherine Rich

Author’s nursery visit

WOODLANDS DAY Nursery on Park Road celebrated World Book Day by dressing up as their favourite book characters and with a special visit from the children's author, Pippa Goodhart.

Pippa (pictured above), who wrote the children's book 'You Choose', is a firm favourite with the 3+ children at the nursery. Leonie Yates from Woodlands said: "Throughout the month the children were learning about books, how they are made, authors and illustrators, so her visit was extra special as the children were able to put a face to the name.
"Pippa did a half hour story session with the 3+ children and at the end of the session she signed copies of the 'You Choose' books as keepsakes."

Creative computing

FAMILIES HAD fun getting creative with computers at a free IT day organised by Longslade College.

Pic: Vipul Dattani, Dillan and Akshay

Mr Vipul Dattani from Elmfield Avenue brought his two children, Dillan (13) and Akshay (9). He said: "I've really enjoyed it, it's been a good day out with the kids. Making a movie with them was really fun and making the tee shirt was enjoyable as it was nice to end up with a finished product. I also learned how creative my sons are!"

Club’s new sponsorship deal

THE UNDER 11s team for Birstall CC Football Club were given a real boost recently when Lee Duddle of Charnwood Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture, Syston offered a sponsorship deal to purchase a new strip and waterproofs for the team.

Pic: back row (l-r) Wayne Dolby (coach), Jordan Webb, Michael Adams, Rob Higham (assistant coach), Joe Cross, Joseph Dolby, Kieran Bailey, Alan Adams (manager); front row (l-r) Samuel Bingham, Andrew Emery, Charlie Duddle, Jack Loach, Joe Higham, Alex West, Scott-Daniel Ibanez

Coach Wayne Dolby said: "This is just the lift the boys needed as we have had a hard season. The boys have been inspirational by regularly turning up for training in all weathers and having real fighting spirit whilst playing some difficult matches. We struggled at the beginning of the season to gain a full squad but the boys have never given up."
Manager Alan Adams and Wayne Dolby hold training sessions on Thursday evenings from 6-7pm at Longslade School, Birstall on the all weather pitch/field. Subs £1. If you are interested please turn up on the night. You will need shin pads.

WI news

The busy sales table and then the singing of Jerusalem started off the March meeting of Birstall & Wanlip WI.
Mrs M Marvin took the chair in the absence of the President and the business for the evening was soon underway. The AGM and the Group Meeting at Anstey, both next week, were discussed as well as final arrangements for the Coffee Morning on March 24 being made.
After a coffee stop the speaker for the evening was introduced. Mrs Wendy Martin's title for the presentation was 'Milk, Muck and Magnificent Mangoes' which had caused some queries beforehand and evoked some great interest. All was explained in an absorbing talk with excellent visual aids in which it turned out that Wendy was an ambassador for the 'Send a Cow' charity. This charity works very hard to send aid, mainly to African countries in the form of agricultural necessities. It started off with a few pregnant cows and has now developed into a registered charity providing also sheep, goats, rabbits, bees and seeds along with training for their management and many other things. It is hard to imagine children walking two miles or more to fetch water for the family and the animals before and after attending school. Many groups are formed by orphans who have lost parents to Aids or they have been killed during uprisings and fighting in their countries. They have so little and one cow or goat can make such a difference to their lives. Even manure is a valuable commodity used to enrich the soil and help to grow things such as 'Magnificent Mangoes'!
The meeting ended with a reminder that next month the school will be closed for the Easter holidays on the first Monday so the April meeting will be on April 16 when Mr David Bence will talk about 'Thailand's Mother Theresa'
From Mrs M Belton

Rugby club’s fun day

A GIANT car boot sale and appearances by leading players from Leicester Tigers are two of the many attractions at Birstall Rugby Football Club's President's Day event.
Held on Sunday May 6 at Stonehill School, the day will also feature two games of rugby : Birstall Veterans v Belgrave Veterans at 12 noon and Birstall XV v Present's Select XV at 2.30pm.
The day starts at 6am with the car boot sale and at 11am children under 11 will be able to take part in a Tigers training camp.
Throughout the day there will be a beer tent, hot dogs, a barbeque, tea, coffee and cakes and a bouncy castle.
All proceeds from the event will go the Matt Hampson Trust.
For more details or to book a space for the car boot sale call 07715 160145.

Club planning for success

NEW BIRSTALL Golf Club captain Dean Grimbley wants the club's players to enjoy themselves and the club's young first team to challenge for the County League again.

Pic: (l-r) Lesley Powell, Patrick Marsden & Dean Grimbley

He said: "Personally I want to enjoy my year and hope everyone else at the club does likewise. The First Team really wants to win more first team games this season. We managed to stay in the First Division last year and want to get back in contention for the title, which we won three times in succession between 2002 and 2004."
Birstall won the County Men's Foursomes in 2006 with a very youthful quartet, and
Dean expects those players, in company with a big crop of other talented youngsters, to build a strong reputation over the coming years.
We've got a young team that is maturing well and I'm sure we will push for the title soon" says Dean, a member of the club for over ten years and who lives on Tempest Road, from where he runs his own woodworking machinery supply business.
Among the first innovations for 2007 is the return of the '100 Holes challenge', in which a selection of the club's players aim to play 100 holes of golf in a day in aid of charity. This year's event is being scheduled for June.
New Ladies Captain is Lesley Powell, a member of the club for 14 years, who says she is keen to continue developing the club's friendly atmosphere, and also inspire the club's ladies to better results.
The club's annual meeting saw women break fresh ground, with Sandra Clarke being elected the first House Chairman in the club's 106 year history.
Taking over as Junior Captain is Patrick Marsden, son of former club captain Keith, who has just turned 14 and had a personal ambition to get his handicap down to single figures from its current 17 and to get more youngsters involved in the game to join the club's fast growing youth section.

Methodist news

Pantomime Result
The proceeds from the Men's Pantomime were divided up, at a meeting of the cast on March 15. Donations were given to 1st Birstall Girls Brigade, 2nd Leicester Boys Brigade, Birstall (53rd Leicester) Scouts and to the Scouts Ugandan appeal. A smaller donation was made to the RSPCA, with a substantial sum going to church funds.
As a result of the collections during the performances £336.67 was sent to LOROS.
Plans are already being made for the 2008 pantomime, but the cast are looking for younger people to join them. The first rehearsal is on September 27.

Good Friday
On Good Friday, April 6, a 'Churches Together' event takes place starting at 9.15am at the Methodist Church with coffee and hot cross buns then proceeding to the old Bowling Green for an outdoor service at around 10am. This will finish sufficiently early enough for those who want to go into Leicester to see the Passion Play that takes place outdoors around the city centre.

Talk to the Luncheon Club?
A number of elderly Birstall folk enjoy a lunch together, once a week at the Methodist church. Once a month they have, afterwards, '40 minutes' when a talk or something similar is given. If you could spare 40 minutes to tell this group all about an interesting holiday, or reminiscences about the past, or demonstrate some talent or skill, then Mary (2672606) or Sheila (2675973) would be delighted to hear from you.

Help for Leporosy Sufferers
We have been invited to help a Leprosy training centre and hospital in North India. Money is needed to provide schooling for over 300 children, 20 low cast houses for families in desperate need of a home and funds for 50 start-up loans to help rebuild livelihoods after leprosy. Events include a sponsored knit (from Easter to May 31), which you could do at home, a six mile sponsored walk at Rutland Water on Saturday April 28 and I understand there is a quiz sheet available. John Ogleby is organising this in Leicester (many Birstall folk will remember John's brother David who used to live in Birstall) and the Birstall contact is Beryl (2103064).

Planning

22 Heathgate Close - erection of two storey extension to side of dwelling
18 Tempest Road - lopping of l oak tree
23 Elmfield Av e - erection of two storey extension to side of dwelling
22 Saltersgate Drive - erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling
175 Harrowgate Drive - erection of 1st floor extension to rear of dwelling
The Earl of Stamford Public House - erection of a single storey flat roof kitchen extension to the side of the existing public house

Parish Council elections

PARISH COUNCIL elections are held every four years and the election on May 3 is an opportunity for anyone wishing to become a parish councillor.
Parish Councils are statutory local authorities and are the part of local government closest to the people. National Government wants to increase the role of Parish Councils in local affairs and is giving them new powers.
Parish Councils, like all local authorities, rely on people who are prepared to put themselves forward to make sure that local people are listened to and to have a role in deciding how the community is run and developed.
Parish Councillors are unpaid and attend council meetings to make decisions on the work and direction of the council.
Parish Councils have a wide range of responsibilities which include:
o Allotments
o Bus shelters and roadside seats
o Car parks
o Cemeteries and burials
o Community transport
o Leisure facilities such as parks, play areas and open spaces
o Litter bins
o Making sure footpaths and bridleways are maintained
o Prosecuting litter and graffiti offences
o Tourism activities
o Street cleaning
o Street lighting
o Youth projects
o Village halls
Prospective candidates have to be at least 18 years old on election day and a registered elector in the area.
Those wishing to stand for election to Birstall Parish Council need to complete nomination papers and submit them to the returning officer, Roger Titterton, at Charnwood Borough Council before 12noon on April 4. Nomination papers are available from Charnwood or from Birstall Parish Council office. They can also be obtained from www.charnwood.gov.uk/democracy/councilelections.html where you can also find out more about the election process.
If after the close of nominations there are fewer candidates than seats on the council, those people nominated are automatically elected to the council. If there are more candidates than seats, voting takes place on May 3.

Corbett’s cricket corner

BIRSTALL VILLAGE Cricket Club Juniors had a surprise visit from two Leicestershire players who turned up at one of the training sessions to give expert advice to the lads.

Pic: Group pic with Nick Walker and David Stiff

Nick Walker and David Stiff are bowlers for the county and showed how good they are by demonstrating the art of fast bowling. Davis Stiff was the fastest 19 year old bowler in the world and is hoping to be the opening bowler for Leicestershire this year.

Pic: Kahil Mann-Kler, Max Lewin, Tom Corbett

Three of the Juniors have been having trials to play for the North East and North West District teams at under 14 and under 11 age groups. All three should know by April if they have been selected. This will be great news for the club. I just hope the better players who play for the Leicestershire Young Cricketers and District lads stay at the club, already the top clubs are showing an interest in the lads but when our players go to other grounds and see lovely pavilions and facilities I wouldn't blame them for moving.

Pic: Tony Wadsworth & Julie Mayer came to a training session and gave each person a Ruby Rainbows wristband to wear

The juniors donated their training fees to the Radio Leicester Ruby Rainbows Appeal. Top radio presenters Tony Wadsworth and Julie Mayer came to a training session and gave each person a Ruby Rainbows wristband to wear, £40 was raised and will go towards the target of £400,000 which is to go towards the cost of a new building at the Rainbows Hospice in Loughborough. The Juniors also donated a Leicestershire signed cricket bat and a special Tony Wadsworth bag (with a hole in the middle) to be auctioned off on Friday April 20 at a Ruby Rainbows event at the Birstall Social Club.
Julie and Tony have shows on BBC Radio Leicester, Julie on weekdays from noon to 2pm and Tony on weekdays from 9am to noon.

Pic: Andy Galpin, Andy Merry, Ian Bartlett, Andy Corbett

In March the senior teams held their Presentation Night at Birstall Golf Club. After a superb four-course meal Chairman Doug Topley presented the awards. The first team were champions last season and are hoping to retain the title this year. The individual winners were Andy Galpin 1st team batsman, Andy Corbett 1st team player of the year, Ian Bartlett clubman of the year, Andy Merry won every trophy for the 2nd team best bowler, batsman and allrounder.
There is also great news for the Village, Leicestershire County Cricket Club are coming back to play Birstall as part of Paul Nixon's Benefit Year. The match will be on Monday June 4 and a large crowd is expected to see Leicestershire and also hopefully welcome Paul Nixon back from the Cricket World cup as a winner, you never know.
Anybody interested in sponsoring the event can ring Doug Topley for details 0116 2928214.
from Andy Corbett

Your Say...

As Charnwood Borough Councillor for Riverside and now Watermead Ward of Birstall for the past 14 years, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the residents who have supported me during the past 14 years and for their good wishes on my retirement from the Council. May I assure you all that my Focus colleagues will continue to represent them all in the future.
Thanks and best wishes to all.
From Maureen Akroyd Cllr

We would like to thank our neighbours in Holt Road and friends for joining us on our 65th Wedding Anniversary. Also the lovely flowers, gifts and cards. It made it such a lovely day to remember. Also the Birstall Post for the nice photo and article.
Charlie & Joyce Borman, Holt Road

I went to the meeting at the Council room on Monday March 12. There was little real information given. The No U Turns suggested seemed to be of little use.
The maps displayed were too small and no details were given. Why can't we have a large coloured map showing the bus lanes with all the details? If Charnwood Borough Council can display in the library a large coloured map showing part of the inner ring road in Loughborough with many details, why can't we have the same service?
It would appear that the bus lane, park & ride to Colindale will take most of the refuge at the Bentley Road pedestrian crossing. Why can't we use some of the east footpath?
At school times that refuge is full of students.
One person suggested that a connection be made from Hallam Fields to Thurcaston, an excellent idea, but unless there is pressure from central government on local councils, this will never happen. Local councils are too busy fighting each other. This non co-operation is the reason why when I asked about Ashton Green the officers were very vague. One again non co-operation from the Leicester City Council even though they upgraded their part of Greengate Lane (an unclassified road) into a B class road.
Charnwood will say that they have created a wonderful Hallam Fields but they have appeared to ignore the disaster they created on the A6. The officers said that the speed outside Hallam Fields was 40mph but I assure them that the speed is more like 60mph plus.
L Briers

The meeting in the church hall on Monday March 12 was not long enough, many more points needed discussing with the gentleman who represented the highways committee.
Do the planners take in the fact that Birstall is cut in half East-West by the A6?
It was said to continue the planned bus lane from Hallam Fields to Colindale Avenue, the centre reservation will be narrowed to make a third lane with traffic lights at Bentley Road junction.
o This will have the effect of making the pedestrian crossing also narrower
o This is a very busy crossing especially at school times
o Would a smaller centre refuge hold the amount of children that will want to cross at the same time?
o Can extra time on the green man be allowed for crossing the road at Bentley Road and at Geengate Lane to allow both young and the slower older persons to cross safely?
He passed a confusing, contradictory comment about allowing U turns at Bentley Road. He also said: "With making a third lane, the width of the road for a waiting car at the centre reservation wouldn't be wide enough: the car would stick out into the traffic"!
o Is it necessary to alter the slip road at the National Westminster Bank, making it an official way to dodge the red light?
o What about the many pedestrians who cross this little road?
It was implied that alterations to the Greengate Lane junction for cars wishing to turn left, would cut through the lovely green triangle of beautiful trees, daffodils and later in the season the rose beds. I believe it was Councillor Wilson who called this triangle of land 'The Princess Diana Memorial Garden'.
o If this is a memorial garden wouldn't it be wise of the council to put up a plaque, quickly, saying so? Perhaps then there might hopefully be more public strength of feeling against putting a road through it. Please let us keep the garden so that we may have something nice to look at.
o A footbridge was called for, as in the original plans, by a member of the public. It must be built so that no missile can be thrown at passing traffic. If one is built let's hope it is put near Hallam Fields, not at Bentley Road as was suggested by someone. Would you like to see a bridge outside the window?
Mrs M A Briers

I would like to thank all my friends for their kindness and cards sent to me on the sudden death of my dear daughter
Isobel Margaret Burdin

So - the lady with the small child and Dalmation off the lead got caught by the Dog Warden! Great news!
But apparently, even after being fined she has stated she will NOT be putting her dog on the lead. Well, what can I say, it is this sort of utterly selfish people who give responsible dog owners a bad name. The rules are quite clear, what part of 'dogs must be on the lead in the park' does she not understand, it's not exactly rocket science is it? If she wants to walk her dog off the lead why doesn't she go down to our wonderful Watermead Park, we are so lucky to have this beautiful area so near to us in Birstall.
Pat Herbert

The members of Birstall Ladies' Bowling Club would like to thank all those people who supported their recent Coffee Morning at the Methodist Church on Saturday February 24. The weather was kind and a successful morning was had in this our Golden Jubilee Year.
With the new season nearly upon us, both men and ladies of Birstall Bowls Club warmly welcome new members. So if you are interested in finding out more, please telephone Diane Hurst on Leicester 2675457 for more information.
Valerie Hollis
President of Birstall Ladies' Bowling Club

My family and I would like to send sincere thanks to everyone for the cards, flowers, gifts and charity donations sent during the past few weeks. We are still trying to come to terms with the tragic loss of our son's wife Nic and her mum in the Saffron Lane accident but we are comforted by your tremendous support.
Heartfelt thanks to you all
Love from Sue & Kelv Townsend & family

Neutering: be in the know

The first in a new series of articles on animal health from Borrajo's Veterinary Clinic

Spring is in the air! Lambs are in the fields and birds are building their nests. At this time of year many animals are reproducing - and our pets are no exception!
This is one reason why neutering is important. Neutering is an operation that involves removing the ovaries and uterus in females and the testes in the male. The procedure there prevents an animal from producing unwanted babies - surely a good thing with hundreds of cats and dogs passing through the Leicester RSPCA each year. Neutering will not suit every animal, but those owners who are not planning to breed from their pet may be interested in some of the potential health benefits.
Female dogs have a reduced chance of developing breast cancer if they are neutered before two and a half years of age. In addition, neutering at any age will prevent a serious infection of the uterus called 'pyometra'. This condition is common and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Both of these diseased are also reduced in cats by neutering.
So what about the boys? Again, there are many benefits of neutering, but people often worry about the emotional effects on their pet. We've all heard about why dogs chase balls! But we should consider the role of neutering in prevention of testicular cancer and in reducing prostate disease. In tomcats neutering can help to reduce aggression and roaming, in turn reducing the likelihood of fighting other cats and having road accidents.
And it's not just dogs and cats in the spotlight - rabbits and other small animals can benefit from neutering too.
I do not deny that this rose does have its thorns. Neutering requires a general anaesthetic and complications can occur. However, I honestly believe that the benefits outweigh the risks most of the time. Deciding whether to have a pet neutered can be a difficult choice. After all, they are part of the family. But as spring approaches, it is worth giving it some thought.
By Jenny Jones MRCVS, BVS&M, Borrajo's Veterinary Clinic, Sibson Road

Business growth rewarded

CHARNWOOD IS set to benefit from a £1.6m financial reward for encouraging business growth across the borough.
The Authority has received the £1,610,568 from the Local Authority Business Growth Incentive (LABGI) scheme - and the money is set to boost a number of economic projects across Charnwood.
Around £550,000 will be going towards the Eastern Gateway, £250,000 to the Loughborough Sports Park, while £200,000 will be spent on new festive illuminations. A total of £100,000 will go towards regenerating towns and villages across Charnwood over the next two financial years.
Charnwood received the largest sum of money awarded to any District Council in the East Midlands as a total of £32m was shared between 41 local authorities across the region.
LAGBI delivers financial rewards directly to local authorities that promote the
greatest levels of continued economic growth in their areas.
The scheme encourages councils to build partnerships with local businesses and promote long-term economic sustainability in their areas.

Age Concern info

NHS Financial Crisis to Affect People Needing Care at Home
Some Councils are warning that the NHS financial crisis is beginning to have an adverse effect on social services. Councils have accused some health trusts of 'costs shunting' to try to make council taxpayers foot the bill for services which should be provided by the health service.
Frail elderly people in some areas are facing huge increases in the fees they pay for care which enables them to stay in their own homes. The Local Government Association has said that four out of ten social services departments have found their finances to be declining as they tried to help elderly people no longer being provided with NHS hospital or nursing care. Among rises proposed are: in Richmond, south-west London, day centre fees rising from £5.20 to £20 a day, in Lambeth, south London, home care rising from £7.55 an hour to £17.50 an hour and in some areas it is proposed that help with cleaning and dressing at home will rise by 50% and day centre fees in Cumbria are to rise by more than 300%. Gordon Lishman, executive director of Age concern England has described the increases as "astonishing".

European Court Finds UK in Breach of Pensions Law
In a case brought by former employees of Allied Steel & Wire, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that the UK contravened European law by failing to protect workers' pensions against corporate collapse. The ECJ also criticised the limitations of the Financial Assistance Scheme (which compensates for pension loss). Compensation for the claimants depends on a finding of 'manifest and serious disregard' in the government's actions - considered unlikely by legal commentators. The case now returns to the High Court.
Judgement of the Court (Second Chamber) in Case 278/05 (Carol Marilyn Robins and others v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions)
www.curia.europa.eu.en/actu/communiques/index.htm

Financial Exclusion: Help the Aged Reports
Help the Aged has published two reports of research into financial exclusion among older people. The first, Financial Exclusion Among Older People, uses interviews with low-income older people to show the practical difficulties caused by access problems and an inability or reluctance to use standard financial services. The second, Losing the Post Office Card Account, recommends that, as a replacement for the account, there should be both a simple account with limited functionality and a more sophisticated account offering more services.
Financial Exclusion among Older People, Losing the Post Office Card Account, Tel: 020 7278 1114 (Help the Aged)

Financial Services Authority Work on Older Consumers
The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has published its annual business plan, setting out its programme for 2007-08. This includes assessing 'whether the market meets the needs of older consumers and whether the current regulatory structure acts as a barrier to the development of appropriate products and services'. Age Concern England will be engaging with this review, the outcome of which will be published in the fourth quarter of 2007.
Business Plan 2007/08. FSA. Tel: 0845 608 2372 (EC Group) www.fsa.gov.uk/pages/Library/Corporate/Plan/bp2007.shtml

Full Regulation for Equity Release
With effect from April 6, home reversion schemes will be regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). Lifetime mortgages are already regulated, so all types of equity release scheme will be covered. Regulation means that providers and sellers of these schemes will now be authorised by the FSA, which sets out minimum standards for how authorised firms conduct their business. Complaints that cannot be sorted out with the company concerned can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Money Made Clear: FSA online information
www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk/products_explained/equity_release.html

Financial Abuse: Action on Elder Abuse Findings
Action on Elder Abuse has released findings from an audit of calls to its helpline about financial abuse. The audit shows that in 53% of calls relating to theft, fraud and deception in people's own homes, victims were being abused by their own children. Two million pounds in cash were stolen or coerced from older people, and 31 houses sold or taken without consent or following coercion. Action on Elder Abuse calls for improved bank and building society procedures to protect customers, and for implementation of Health Select Committee recommendations on financial abuse.

Carer's Case Referred to European Court
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has been asked to interpret the European Equal Treatment Directive on an important question of disability discrimination law. Following criticism from her employers for asking for time off to care for her disabled son, Sharon Coleman was forced to resign from her job and brought an Employment Tribunal claim for unfair treatment on grounds of disability. She is contending that the Directive protects her against discrimination because of her 'association' with a disabled person.
Disability Rights Commission press release, January 5, 2007.
www.drc-gb.org/newsroom/news_releases/2007/coleman_case.aspx

House of Lords to Hear Care Home Appeals
The question of whether residents can enforce their human rights against privately run care homes will be considered by the House of Lords in April. Two appeals on this issue - Johnson v Havering and YL v Birmingham City Council - were dismissed by the Court of Appeal in January. The Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs, intervening in the cases, had argued in support of the claimants that the interpretation of the Human Rights Act in the Leonard Cheshire case was flawed.
YL v (1) Birmingham City Council and (2) Southern Cross Healthcare (Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs intervening) www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWCA/Civ/2007/27.html

Bills Before Parliament
Bills currently before parliament which affect older people's lives include those listed below. (HL) indicates bills initiated in the House of Lords. Those marked with an asterisk have had amendments made to them during the month of February. (Note that Age Concern is not necessarily doing work on all of these Bills). The full list of bills before parliament can be accessed via the link below.
Concessionary Bus Travel Bill (HL)
Consumers, Estate Agents and Redress Bill (HL)
Digital Switchover (Disclosure of Information) Bill
Disabled Persons (Independent Living) Bill (HL)
Further Education and Training Bill (HL)
Legal Services Bill (HL)
Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Bill
Mental Health Bill (HL)*
Palliative Care Bill (HL)
Pensions Bill
Sustainable Communities Bill
Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Bill (HL)*
Welfare Reform Bill *
Public bills before parliament 2006-07
www.publications.parliament.uk/pa//pabills/htm

Concessionary Bus Travel Bill
The bill had its third reading in the House of Lords on February 5. Age Concern had supported a briefing which included a proposed amendment to allow a choice of either a buss pass or tokens to be spent on other forms of transport. This was defeated. However, Lord Low of Dalston emphasised the needs of older people, and said Age Concern would like the government to produce a report on a concessionary solution for people who do not have bus services in their area or are unable to use buses for various reasons.
Concessionary Bus Travel Bill. House of Lords Hansard, cols 480-497
From Jex Woods

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