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Rothley Post Mar/Apr 2007 (63)

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Playground makeover

ROTHLEY SCHOOL'S playground is set for a £4,000 makeover.

Pic: Chloe Hall (7) preparing for work on the new playground, watched by her fellow pupils with RBS's Ann Hall and Colin Shaw from Rothley Church of England Primary School.

The transformation of the playground comes as part of the 'RBS Supergrounds' programme which was launched in September 2004 by The Royal Bank of Scotland Group and is managed by the national school grounds charity Learning Through Landscapes in partnership with environmental charity Groundwork.
RBS Supergrounds has been developed by The Royal Bank of Scotland Group to strengthen the ties between company staff and their communities, with staff nominating schools they have a connection with.
Rothley Church of England Primary became involved with the scheme through Ann Hall from the Royal Bank of Scotland Group, who is a parent and PTA member at the school. She said: "As a parent and PTA member I know how difficult it is for schools to raise funds and this scheme seemed an ideal way for us to improve the school grounds to help the children develop. It's great that The Royal Bank of Scotland Group, through RBS Supergrounds, agreed to give its support to the school because of my involvement. When you give up your spare time to support the development of an outside classroom and healthy living garden at Rothley Church of England Primary, it's great to know that the Bank is willing to give you its support."
Fiona Parr, Head Teacher at Rothley Church of England Primary School, said: "It's fantastic that RBS Supergrounds is supporting the development of the playground at the school. School playgrounds are one of the few safe outdoor spaces that are available to children. For many children who do not have access to a garden or live near a park, school grounds are probably their only experience of the outdoors and an important part of the learning environment. We are really excited about working with RBS Supergrounds to ensure that the playground makes a real difference to the pupils' lives.
RBS Supergrounds is a £3 million initiative that will improve 450 primary school playgrounds over three years, and Rothley Church of England Primary School has been selected to be part of year three of the programme.

Youth club ready

ROTHLEY YOUTH Club is now ready to open its doors and is planning an official open day event in March.
All young people, parents or potential volunteers will be welcome to come along and see the new facilities and find out what will be on offer to the young people of Rothley. The open day will be on Saturday March 24.
Youth Worker Zoe Whetherly said: "I'm very pleased to say that the Youth Bank grant of £7,500 which has just been awarded to the young people of the project is the icing on the cake. This grant will enable us to equip the cabins and provide staff time for an additional night in the week for 12+ and maybe even introduce some summer activities. It really is all systems go."

Paper supplier expands

A PAPER company with a £40 million factory in Rothley has become the world's biggest supplier of specialised tissue.
Leicester Paper Company (LPC) is based in Hamilton and has just acquired a factory in France. It already has factories in Sweden and plans to build others in Spain and Germany.
The 425,000 square foot factory at Rothley Lodge employs more than 250 staff and makes 1.6 million toilet and kitchen rolls a day.
LPC is based at Hamilton Industrial Estate where its 1.2 million square foot factory employs 600 and produces three million rolls a day.

Film screenings

THE MULTI award winning film' The Queen' starring Helen Mirren is just one of the screenings planned for Thurcaston's Memorial Hall.
A season of films has been organised by Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council for 2007, after the success of their venture last year.
'Captain Corelli's Mandolin' and 'Walk the Line' were screened in January and February. The remaining programme is: 'Brokeback Mountain' Friday March 9, 7.30pm; 'The Queen' Friday April 20, 7.30pm
The May film has yet to be confirmed, but will be screened on Friday May 18, Tickets are £3, concessions £2.50, wine or fruit juice plus nibbles are provided. Tickets are available at the door on in advance from 2367626.
The Parish Council hopes to organise further screenings from September onwards.

Rothley Centre exhibition

250 PEOPLE visited an exhibition of plans of the new Rothley Centre.

The event was organised by Rothley Parish Council to give residents the opportunity to find out more about the £1.2 million proposal, ask questions of the architect and give their news by completing a questionnaire.
Chairman of Rothley Parish Council Percy Hartshorn said: "We were amazed at the response, we had 20 people in the first five minutes then a steady stream of visitors all day. It has been a very worthwhile exercise.
"More than eighty per cent are in favour of the plans and we've had some constructive criticism as well".

Some people were unhappy at the loss of green space - the new centre will be built on a grassy play area next to Rothley library.
Following the consultation, architects have altered the design of the roof - instead of being flat it will now have a gentle slope.
The Parish Council is aiming to submit a planning application for the building to Charnwood in March,
The new Rothley Centre will replace the existing building on Mountsorrel Lane, which is owned by Charnwood Borough Council. The new centre will be a 763 square metre single storey building with 76 car parking spaces and the access will be shared with Rothley library.

Rothley and the abolition of the slave trade

ROTHLEY WILL be commemorating the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade in Britain with a series of special events.
On March 25, 1807, King George III signed into the statute book the Act abolishing the entire British slave trade. The traffic that had taken more than 3 million captive Africans onto British ships for the journey across the Atlantic was now reaching is end.
In Rothley there will be a special church service on Sunday March 25 at 10.30am and at 12noon a peal of bells will ring out. In the afternoon there will be a series of free events at the Rothley Court Hotel on Westfield Lane where visitors will be able to find out Rothley's special connection to the abolition. Local historian Terry Sheppard explains below:
It is not just a gesture that two roads in Rothley are given the names Babington and Macaulay. Although the Babingtons were lords of the manor of Rothley for almost 300 years, and the last one married Jean Macaulay, the daughter of a Scottish manse, there are two people in particular who will be remembered in Rothley on Sunday March 25, 2007. On that day local folk will gather at the original Babington Home, now the Rothley Court Hotel, and commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Bill that outlawed the Slave Trade.

Pic: William Wilberforce
(image courtesy Bridgeman Art Library)

It was on March 25, 1807 that the King signed into law the bill Abolishing The Slave Trade in the British Empire. No longer could British ships carry on the heinous trade of shipping thousands of our fellow humans from Africa across to the new world, shackled, very ill-used, and sold on into a short life of unbending toil at the whim of rich plantation owners. At Rothley on Sunday March, 2007 a new book will be launched telling the story of the struggle for abolition, highlighting the contribution made by the local squire Thomas Babington working closely with William Wilberforce.

Pic: Thomas Babington
(image courtesy of the Trustees of the British Museum)

Thomas Babington, the last Babington lord of the manor, studied at Rugby School and then went up to St John's College Cambridge, later qualifying in Law at Lincolns Inn. Also at St John's was William Wilberforce, the rich young man from Hull, and Thomas Gisborne, who would become the squire and a parson at Yoxall Lodge near Burton on Trent. The three became close friends, Gisborne married Babington's sister Mary, and Wilberforce often spent summer recesses from parliament at Both Yoxall and Rothley.

Pic: Rothley Temple circa 1796
(image courtesy County Archivist)

The book also features the extraordinary story of Zachary Macaulay, Babington's brother-in-law, who after an upbringing at a Highland manse and a book-keeping apprenticeship in a Glasgow Merchant House, endured five years as overseer on a slave-worked sugar plantation in Jamaica. Returning to England and to his sister's home at Rothley Temple, the only family home available, Zachary's tortured spirit was restored under the gentle ministry of Thomas Babington. His rediscovered Christian faith, and his introduction to members of the earnest evangelicals of the so-called Chapham Sect, led Zachary into a lifetime of important and famous work for the anti-slavery cause. Thomas Babington and Zachary Macaulay, these are the two specially remembered on March 25, 2007.
As the Abolition campaign grew in momentum, and Wilberforce took on the task of being its champion in Parliament, he frequently turned to his two Cambridge chums for help. In the summer of 1790 he met up with them at Yoxall Lodge, and for weeks the three of them worked on 1400 pages of evidence given to the Select Committee investigating the Trade. With just quill pens and candlelight at night, they put in continual nine-hour days checking the inconsistencies in the evidence, and writing up a summarised report that Wilberforce could lay before the House of Commons. In the following summer, 1791, they worked at Rothley on drafts of evidence and resolutions for a Bill. In April 1792 the Commons recognised the inhumanity and brutality of the Trade and voted to abolish it, but not yet, just gradually at some time in the future.
The Revolution across the channel and the war with France made the whole country edgy, and little progress was made, but in 1800 Babington became the member of Parliament for Leicester, joining Wilberforce in the Commons, and was ever by his side. Babington was the one Wilberforce turned to when he wanted help to review a case in the courts, or sit up into the night digesting evidence, or grinding out the heads of those amazing Wilberforce speeches. With the war situation eased after the victory at Trafalgar in 1805, the clamour for Abolition became intense, and in February 1807 the commons voted overwhelmingly for Abolition.
At 12noon on Sunday March 25, 2007 the bells of Babington's home church at Rothley will ring out a special peal to mark the moment. The people who had earlier been at a special service in the Church from 10.30 will raise a cheer, and remember with gratitude the names of Thomas Babington and Zachary Macaulay. The book to be launched later in the afternoon, Rothley and the Abolition of the Slave Trade, is meant to be a lasting tribute to the Abolitionists' endeavour. Everyone in the village could do well to read it.
Also featuring at the Book Launch between 2 and 5pm at the Rothley Court Hotel will be dramatic readings from 18th century slavery documents, a storyboard exhibition, a gospel concert by the Kaine Choir, and a new memorial on the lawns at the hotel. There will be tours of this historic site, with its 13th century Templar Chapel, and everybody is welcome. No booking is required, and admission is free.
If you want to collect a copy of the book on the day, signed by the authors, it can be pre-paid at Rothley Post Office. Details about the book and the event can be found on the website: www.rothleychurch.org.uk/slavery or by telephoning Terry Sheppard on 0116 2302931

Side waste penalty

RESIDENTS COULD face a fine of £80 if they leave side waste by their bins.
Side waste is any rubbish you leave out for collection that is not inside your wheelie bin or in the right recycling bag. For example, domestic rubbish tied securely in a black plastic refuse bag and left beside your wheelie bin is 'side waste'.
Cllr Sandie Gough, Cabinet Member for Environment said: "We want residents to really take on board what we are saying - put your rubbish and recycling in the right bags and bins provided. If you don't, and leave the rubbish as 'side waste', it is an enviro-crime and we will issue you with a fixed Penalty Notice of £80."
In some cases warnings in the form of letters have been sent to some of the worst offenders who are leaving side waste, in an effort to forewarn all Charnwood residents of the Council's intentions.
The aim of the fine is to prevent neighbourhoods looking unsightly and causing potential environmental health problems.
Cllr Gough added: "The warnings are being followed up by Street Wardens undertaking random patrols and issuing the fines to people who have side waste. This alongside the regular discretionary issuing of Fixed Penalty Notices for those who commit other 'enviro-crimes' such as dropping litter, graffiti and fly tipping.

Burglar jailed

A BURGLAR has been jailed for two and a half years after admitting to a series of break-ins.
Justin Brook (21) admitted breaking into a house in Frederick Street, Loughborough, on September 19 last year, when a DVD player, a camera, a sports bag and a back pack were stolen.
He also admitted burgling a property in Town Green Street, Rothley on October 7, when three laptop computers, a camera, money and a mobile phone were taken.
Brook, of Victoria Street, Loughborough, pleased guilty to handling a stolen laptop and a digital camera on October 13. He had previously served sentences for house break-ins and was on licence at the time of these offences.
Robert Brown, defending, said: "All the offending was drug inspired when he was on heroin and cocaine.

Tennis talent from Rothley

A ROTHLEY teenager is one of the strongest junior tennis players in the country.

Pic: Connor Glennon

Connor Glennon (13) has just returned from the World Junior championships in France where he won his first two matches but was knocked out in the next round.
Connor, who has been playing tennis since he was four, plays at Rothley Ivanhoe Tennis Club and is coached by Tom Lewis.
Tom said: "Connor trains very hard and is incredibly fit. He is an aggressive player but is able to say calm, one of his biggest strengths."
Connor is ranked the number five under 14 player in Britain and is currently the Leicestershire U14 Junior champion. He trains full time at Nottingham Tennis academy where he receives specialised tennis coaching.

Parish Council Notes

A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on January 15.
Chairman Percy Hartshorn congratulated Rothley's Marion Vincent for her recent award of an MBE.
PC Steve Rhodes reported there had been an overall increase in crime over the past year and an increase in the clean up rate. The Police surgeries at the Rothley Centre and on Cross Green were proving popular.
PC Rhodes has been trained in the use of a laser speed gun which he has been using on Swithland Lane. Further use is planned in the village.
It was agreed to fund NHW signage up to a total of £500.
Following a consultation exercise with the residents of Howe Lane, it was agreed to recommend to the County Council that the one way system along Howe Lane be reversed. The proposal is supported by the Police.
It was reported that work has now started on the refurbishment of the cemetery chapel.
A FULL meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was held on November 16.
PC Steve Rhodes reported that five persons had been arrested in connection with property stolen, and six persons interviewed in connection with vandalism. Four persons will be dealt with regarding this matter.
PC Rhodes commented that Police advice is to remove all valuable items from your car and not to leave them in the boot as this is no longer considered safe.
It was reported there had been an increase in the use of the 99 bus service.
Cllr Snartt reported that speed guns were available from the Highways Speed Watch and that Woodhouse Eaves Parish Council had used them in their parish to good effect. Cllr Snartt agreed to obtain information regarding speed guns and said it might be possible to obtain one on loan from Woodhouse Eaves for a trial period.
It was reported that the Friendship Club would close in March due to a declining membership.
Four film shows in the Memorial Hall are planned for 2007.
A full meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was held on January 18 (there was no meeting in December).
PC Steve Rhodes presented crime figures for the Parish for 2006.
Thurcaston: burglaries 10, burglary other 2, theft of vehicle 1, theft from vehicle 3, damage 5, theft 6, miscellaneous 6
Cropston : burglaries 5, theft of vehicle 3, theft from vehicle 11, damage 7, theft 5, miscellaneous 11
The council agreed its precept for the year 2007/08 at £32,000. This is the same amount as 2006/07.
All Saints Church, Thurcaston has submitted a request for a grant towards the cost of extending the building and it was agreed to keep the request under consideration.

Free bus passes

A CARD that gives free bus travel across the county for pensioners began being distributed in late February.
Charnwood Borough Council's Gold Card gives users free concessionary bus travel across Leicestershire and the East Midlands. It's just what senior citizens and qualifying disabled people needed after a deal could not be agreed with Leicestershire County Council for Charnwood pensioners to enjoy the benefits of concessionary travel.
Cllr Max Hunt, Leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: "The Charnwood Gold Card will be a high quality scheme in Leicestershire, offering pensioners and qualifying disabled people off-peak free travel countywide for the first time." The Charnwood gold Card will be available to all aged over 60 living in the Borough and qualifying disabled people.
As well as offering free travel countywide, Nottingham, Derby and other areas in the East Midlands, it will also offer half fare before 9.30am. Pass holders can also take advantage of reduced rates on trains between Leicester, Derby and Nottingham.
The Gold Card will be posted to all existing users and can be used for the first time from Thursday March 1. The Charnwood Gold Card is subsidised by national Government, whose subsidy increases to meet the full cost of off-peak travel by bus in April 2008.
Key information will be sent directly to the pass holders with the card - while people who use the voucher system will also be receiving details of how the scheme affects them. Those who wish to apply for a Gold Card can contact Charnwood Borough Council on 01509 634561 or email concessionary travel@ charnwood.gov.uk Further details are also available online by logging onto www.charnwood.gov.uk/streets/concessionarytravel.html

Garden society

Cropston & Thurcaston Garden Society's first meeting in January was the start of an exciting programme for the forthcoming year.
The January meeting was preceded by our AGM. At the meeting the existing committee was re-elected and unfortunately the annual subs were increased to cover the rising fees for good speakers.
This was followed by a talk called 'An Introduction to Alpines' by Eric Webster from Loughborough. Eric had some fantastic slides and gave a very interesting talk which everyone enjoyed
This year includes another six interesting talks, garden visits and outings along with our annual show in September. Why not come and join us and enjoy some excellent evenings. We meet the second Wednesday of the month in the Village Hall at Thurcaston at 7.45pm
From Paul Day, Chairman

Imps need volunteers

DO YOU have the passion to help young people in football and make a difference in the community? If so then read on.

The world's most popular team sport and national game - association football - is alive and kicking in Rothley. The local Rothley Imps Junior Football club is one of 38,000 clubs across the country providing youngsters with a regular opportunity to develop their football and all-round sports skills, meet new friends and have fun in a safe and welcoming environment throughout the August to May periods.
Behind the scenes, an army of volunteers regularly give up their spare time to help young people to reap the many benefits from taking part in Junior football.

One just has to take a small trip along on a Saturday or Sunday morning to witness the enthusiasm, passion and pride from those taking part in weekly training sessions or matches. The club boasts eight teams starting from Under 7s to Under 15s and has some 150+ boys and a growing number of girls on its books.
Unfortunately, two of the club's leading and long serving stalwarts Dennis Burton and Chris Godrich are all set to hang up their admin' boots and retire from active service at the end of the current season. This provides the club with a major dilemma as the need to find suitable replacements for these pivotal positions of General Secretary and Treasurer is now a matter of priority if the club is to continue in its current format.
There are also plans to expand the scope of the club involving football development and physical changes to the fabric of the facilities within the community.
There is an energetic committee including representation from all the different sections and these roles will be as leading members of the committee.
The Secretary:
This role will suit someone who is an organiser and can drive the club on an administrative front. In depth knowledge of football is not necessary but would be helpful. The job is the main liaison between the local leagues and the managers, involving fixtures, referee and opponent liaison, discipline, child protection, legal matters, committee admin and many other varied matters.
The Treasurer:
Likewise this role is for an organised person who can prepare basic accounts and control the income and expenditure of the club. The job involves collecting and banking money, sorting and settling the invoices, preparing monthly balance sheets, fundraising and a number of other assorted bits and pieces!
The jobs are basically volunteer roles but some expenses could be paid if required.
If you are interested please contact the club secretary - Dennis Burton on 07810 852700 to discuss further the above.
From Rothley Imps JFC

Council tax

THE COUNCIL tax collected by Charnwood Borough Council will rise by 2.5 per cent for the year 2007/2008.
Council leader Max Hunt said: "After freezing the tax in 2005 and a rise of just 3.5 per cent last year, Charnwood's council tax is in the lowest 15 per cent of District Councils across the county."
Charnwood says next year's spending priorities are CCTV, the Gold Card free travel pass for the over 60s, more facilities for children and young people and increasing the number of street wardens.
o £440,000 has been committed to the Gold Card which will be launched in Spring 2007 and allow free county wide bus travel to the over 60s and disabled people
o The budget for Street Wardens has been increased by £100,000
o £450,000 has been committed to CCTV monitoring from the existing Charnwood Borough Council Customer Contact Centre. CCTV will now be monitored 24 hours
o £627,000 has been committed for the Charnwood Play Strategy, including £350,000 to provide investment in facilities for children across the Borough.
The Budget for 2007/08 will be put before the full council in February.

Plans delayed

PLANS FOR a 20 hectare employment site north of Birstall and south of Rothley will be subject to another public consultation exercise in 2008.
The plans have been delayed because of the publication of the Draft East Midlands Regional Plan (DEMRP) in September 2006, which contained significant increases in the amount of housing required by 2026. A total of 19,000 new dwellings are needed in Charnwood, according to the plan.
The DEMRP will be subject to an examination in May/June of 2007 by an independent panel who will prepare a report for the Secretary of State in September 2007. Only at this stage will the scale of development needed in Charnwood be clarified.
The Birstall employment site is a feature of Charnwood's Local Development Framework, known as Charnwood 2021. A Borough Council spokesman said: "The revised timetable will mean that the Borough Council will not progress Charnwood 2021 until the scale of the development flowing from the Regional Plan is clarified. The Borough Council will then reconsult local residents and stakeholders so that they can have a say in how we can best provide for future growth in the Borough over the next 20 years."

WI news

AT THE first meeting for 2007 Rothley WI members were delighted to give a warm welcome to Marion Vincent who is our first new member this year.
We are also delighted with the news that Marion is to receive the MBE in recognition of all her hard work and commitment to the village. Well known in Rothley as the Neighbourhood Watch Beat Manager she is also the local Heritage Warden, village website manager and can often be seen trekking off to measure and record our local tree population, the hedgerows and the birdlife! In between all that Marion is also busy being Chair of the WEA or presenting talks and slides to local community groups! In fact Marion is presenting slides and a talk at our February meeting, entitled 'From Cameroon to Kew'.
But back to January 2007 our speaker for the new year meeting was none other than our president Pauline Fitchett who took us all on a very nostalgic stroll down memory lane and a look at life in a mining community over 50 or more years ago. Along with tables full of mementos for us all to browse through Pauline illustrated her talk on 'Mining Memorabilia and Afternoon Tea' dressed in the fashion of the ladies of the very early 20th century. The presentation was very much enjoyed by one and all, evoking more than a few sentimental thoughts from her audience and she capped it all off by offering some freshly made jelly and blancmange for tea which was very reminiscent of the Sunday afternoon 'Tea in the Front Room' era!
Rothley WI afternoon group members were taken on a 'trip' across the world with guest speaker, and new member, Marion Vincent MBE at their meeting in February.
Marion's love of the outdoors and the unexpected was very prevalent when some time ago she joined a team of botanists from Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew for a 'holiday with a difference' in no less a place than Cameroon on Africa's West coast, consisting of a doubtful looking 'hotel' which, considering the poverty of that particular tiny local community where they were to stay, was probably considered the lap of luxury. This was to become 'base camp' whilst Marion and her researcher colleagues trekked up mountains, into bush and jungle to collect certain specimens of the local flora and fauna. These specimens were then taken back to base, logged, recorded, pressed and packed ready for the long journey home and to Kew. Aptly entitled 'From Cameroon to Kew' Marion deftly illustrated her experience with some excellent slides to support her professional and fascinating talk, and she had the rapt attention of every member. For a cold and frosty February afternoon, Marion's presentation was without doubt an excellent choice.
At Rothley afternoon WI we all look forward to meeting visitors and potential members for a cuppa and a slice of cake or a biscuit. So why not join us for a taster, meet new friends, relax and enjoy our March meeting guest speaker, Nancy Ruston who will tell us all about 'Me, My Men & Middle Age'
We meet at 2-4.30pm on the first Wednesday of the month, at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, ample free parking, we look forward to seeing you.
From M Bulmer

A CONCOCTION of confectionary delights is the only way of describing Thurcaston & Cropston WI's talk in February.
The speaker was Tom Phillips from Hannah's Handmade Chocolates. First he gave a talk on the history of chocolate. This included the different areas in the world where the cocoa bean is grown. The Ivory Cost in particular grows a high quality bean.
We went through the details of how they are then processed and turned into cocoa powder. High quality products, such as those made by the French and Belgians, also contain the oils released during the processing. This is commonly known as cocoa butter. Its inclusion in the manufacture of good chocolate is essential.
We were also told how milk and white chocolate are made and that a good quality chocolate should have a 60 to 70% cocoa content. A demonstration then followed where an Easter egg and a chocolate rabbit were made. In addition to this, two trays of chocolates, one white and the other dark, were created. The dark chocolates had a praline filling. These were all duly tested by an appreciative audience!
This was a highly enjoyable talk, the skills of the confectioner were appreciated and everyone felt they had gained an insight into this delicious art.
Our next meeting will be held on Thursday March 1 at The Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston when the speaker will be Mr Alan Norman on the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation.
NB On Saturday March 17 the WI will be holding their Annual Rummage Sale at The Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston, doors open at 2pm.

Story of Britain’s roads

THURCASTON AND Cropston Local History Society's first meeting of 2007, on January 16, was well attended to hear Wendy Freer give an excellent talk about packhorses and packroads.
Over 500 years ago, our ancestors had no maps or other directional aids to find their way about. Despite the prolific road building of the Romans, their roads had fallen into disrepair and much of the British Isles were again covered by forests and other vegetation. There were other hazards such as wild animals to deter the traveller, and there were no tools suitable for clearing trees and plants to create paths.
Consequently, what 'roads' existed were tracks confined to high ground to avoid the difficulty of getting through undergrowth, and these became well-worn and used and several of them survive today such as the Jurassic Way from Salisbury in Wiltshire up to Yorkshire. It was not until the Iron Age that tools became available to clear vegetation in order to create more structured roads. Where the Roman roads had directly linked large towns and settlements, the Saxons and the Danes were responsible for creating paths between small villages.
The word 'road' was not commonly used until the 17th century but there were many other words with the same meaning which derived from the different languages of the numerous invaders of these islands.
Examples include: via - Latin for road, gate or yate - Scandinavian for road, straet or street - Anglo Saxon term for Roman roads. 'Way' is another Scandinavian word and 'Portway' means a road to market and 'kirkway' a road to church. Some words had different meanings in different parts of the country - hence 'portway' could mean a road to a port. Bradgate means 'broad road' and Stratford means where a road crosses a stream or river.
The first useful map of the British Isles, called 'the map of the road' was produced by John Ogilby in 1675, and in l777 John Prior produced a map of Leicestershire.
In 1733 JPs authorised the erection of 'direction stones' to be placed in strategic places as aids to travellers and by 1738 distance in miles began to be added to the stones.
Apart from walking, horses and ponies provided the main method of transport right through to the early part of the 20th century, either to be ridden, used to carry goods as packhorses or to pull carts or carriages. Teams of packhorses were led by a group of men known as 'jaggers'. The horses wore specially designed wooden saddles with a horse blanket underneath. Each saddle had strong hooks to which large panniers were fitted to carry a variety of goods from wool and hay to foodstuffs and coal. Weights carried by each horse varied according to the type of goods, but in Elizabethan times for example it could be up to 224 lbs per load. The lead horse would usually wear a collar of bells as a warning signal to other travellers to give the packhorse team room to pass.
Unsurprisingly, the routes used by the packhorse teams became known as packroads, and packbridges (of which there are four between Cropston, Thurcaston and Anstey) were specially built to cross over marshy land or streams. Because of the general hazards of travel, sometimes a chapel was built next to a packbridge in order for travellers to pray for a safe journey before crossing over the bridge. Packroads were also used by drovers driving sheep and cattle to market covering an average of 12 miles a day with cattle, but less distance per day with sheep and pigs.
Please join us for our meeting on Tuesday March 20 at 7.30pm to hear Barbara McAllen give her presentation 'And so to bed' on historic nightwear. Our usual venue - The Old School, Thurcaston. Please note there is no meeting in April.

Horticultural society

FESTIVE TABLEWARE, candles, a tasty buffet and good company all added up to an entertaining Christmas party for Thurcaston & Cropston Horticultural Society.
David did us proud with his amusing and tantalising quizzes, which led to the team with the highest points winning the 'Seasonal Smarty Pants' trophy. A very enjoyable evening which was well attended.
The topic for the February 14 meeting has the intriguing title of 'Wild in Brazil' speaker Richard Yates. Come along and join our friendly club, you will be made very welcome.
From Pam Mason

Planning

6 Forge End, Rothley - erection of conservatory to side of dwelling
Rothley Park Cricket Club, Wellsic Lane, Rothley - concrete paved area in front of pavilion, linking to score box and access gate
Corner Cottage, 46 North Street, Rothley - erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling
132 & 134 Station Rd, Cropston - erection of 2 dwellings and garages to the rear of 132 & 134 Station Rd with alterations to access and landscaping
Cropston Evangelical Free Church, Station Rd, Cropston - cutting down of three ash trees
9 Causeway Lane, Cropston - erection of 1st floor extension to rear of end-terrace cottage
51 Station Rd, Cropston - erection of garage with living accommodation above to front, single storey link from garage to house, dormer window to front roof slope and 2 storey extension, with dormer windows at front and rear, to side of dwelling

After school club

ROTHLEY BAPTIST Church will be running an after school club for children aged 5-11 from March 1.
The club will be held in the Baptist Church on Woodgate every Thursday during term time only from 4-5.30pm, and will be organised by Beth Dixon.
For more details contact rothleybaptist@yahoo.co.uk
o The Baptist Church will be marking the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade with a joint service of Baptist churches from across the Soar Valley on March 25 at 6pm.
o A large vinyl banner was stolen from the steps of Rothley Baptist Church between December 31 and January 3. The banner was printed with the message: "We are here for you - Rothley Baptist Church". A small reward is offered for its return.

Volunteering

INTERESTED IN volunteering? Or perhaps your group needs to recruit volunteers.
In either case, a new website has been launched that aims to be a portal for volunteering in Leicestershire, www.volunteeringleicestershire.org.uk
The site contains a database of volunteering opportunities to match volunteers with a suitable role.
Organisers wanting to advertise an opportunity for volunteering are asked to complete a questionnaire so that they are matched with suitable volunteers. There are around 200 groups registered with 'Volunteer Centre Loughborough', which covers the Charnwood area.
Volunteer Centre Loughborough can be contacted on 01509 631770 or at www.voluntaryactioncharnwood.org.uk

Mentors for young people

VOLUNTEERS ARE being encouraged to sign up for a beneficial project and become mentors to help steer 'at risk' youngsters away from antisocial abehaviour.
The Charnwood Mentoring Scheme has been set up as part of a joint venture between Charnwood 20:20 and the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.
Its aim is to create a 'professional friendship' between mentors and a disengaged young person. The project has the backing of Charnwood Borough Council and the Local Area Police.
After specialist training, the pairs spend five hours a month in a year-long mentoring relationship, with the ultimate goal of helping the young person take on a positive community role and enhancing their prospects of education and employment.
Cllr Sandie Forrest, Charnwood Borough Council's Cabinet member for Community Safety and chairperson of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, said: Being a mentor is a hugely beneficial role to undertake, both for personal development and community impact.
"We're looking for people who are willing to give their time to become a mentor to a young person - a role that requires effort, reliability and firm commitment.
"Mentors offer guidance, support and advice to their young person as they seek to achieve their goals in education, employment and personal and social development."
Wendy Brown, Charnwood Borough Council's Antisocial Behaviour Officer, added: "Charnwood Borough Council is committed to providing sustainable solutions to the problems associated with antisocial behaviour.
"The mentoring scheme involves local voluntary agencies with a strong commitment to community cohesion, it will assist us to deliver enforcement action which is, of course, of considerable benefit to the young person."
Andy Cook, the Charnwood Mentoring Scheme Co-ordinator, said: "The scheme provides young people with an opportunity to gain help, encouragement and support from local mentors that are committed and enthusiastic towards making a significant difference to the life of another.
"It will draw those young people who are on the fringes of the community into being active citizens as new and purposeful friendships are born.
"The need for committed and focused mentors is undoubted and their input into a young life can open up windows of opportunity and choice that have not been realised before.
"It will be a challenging process for all concerned. However, the rewards will far outweigh the costs as the changes to lives across the town will be visibly seen."
Anyone wishing to find out more about the scheme, or become a volunteer, can contact Administrator Wendy Brown, from Charnwood Borough Council, on 01509 634522 or email: wendy.brown@charnwood.gov.uk
Alternatively, call the scheme's Co-ordinator Andy Cook, from Charnwood 20:20 on 01509 234234 ex.206 or email: andy.t.cook@gmail.com

Club need players

NEWTOWN LINFORD Cricket club is seeking players of proven ability to join them for the 2007 season for their Saturday XIs.
Spokesman Peter Johnson said: "Playing in the Everards Leicestershire County Cricket League, we have one of the most picturesque grounds in the county. Our square and outfield are prepared to the highest standard. Our clubhouse has spacious dressing rooms, showers and a bar. Our teas are legendary on the local cricket circuit!"
Winter nets are held at the National Cricket Academy at Loughborough on Tuesday evenings, and nets and training are held at the ground, again on Tuesday evenings, during the season.
Peter added: " We have a vibrant social side to the club, with regular events throughout the season and beyond."
If you are interested in joining us please contact Peter Johnson on 01530 243247 for an informal chat or contact him at pete.johnson@hotmail.co.uk

Twinning group remembers

BRADGATE TWINNING Association organised a ramble in Bradgate Park to remember three past members of the group.

Pic: Twinners link arms joining all the memorial trees.

The Memorial Tree ramble visited the three trees that were planted in their memory. Spokesman Robert Hill said: "This year 30 members met in Newtown Linford and walked through Bradgate Park taking a circular route pausing at our trees on the way round. We returned to Newtown Linford to a member's house for a cup of tea and bite to eat before returning home."

NHW news & Crime Report

BURGLARS OFTEN target sheds, either to steal the contents or to use the tools inside to break into your home or your neighbour's home.
The latest shed burglary in Cropston was on February 7/8, when a lawnmower was stolen.
The Police issue the following advice for homeowners on shed security.
o Make sure that the shed is near the house or clearly visible from the house
o Make sure that the door, door frame and walls are solid and replace any damaged or rotten areas with new sections
o Secure padlock hasps and door hinges with threaded coach bolts with washers or backing plates to prevent the bolt being pulled through the wood. A strong pad bar with a tamper-proof case for the lock is a good deterrent
o Replace broken glass panes with laminated glass. Fit windows with a grille fixed to steel plates inside the shed. You could use adhesive film, on the inside of the windows to prevent people from seeing the contents of your shed
o Fit key-operated window locks on opening windows. If the windows are never opened screw them permanently shut from the inside
o Use metal rings and chains fixed to the shed frame with security screws to enable you to secure your electrical items, ladders and tools. Remember to mark your property with UV or indelible pen or paint using your postcode and your number or first few letters of your house name where possible
o Fit a battery-powered alarm. These can be purchased quite cheaply from DIY stores and garden centres
o Put away all tools and equipment and lock the shed
o Make sure your household insurance policy covers theft from your garden and outbuildings
Crime Report
Rothley Dec 06 & Jan 07
Burglary 6, burglary other 4, theft of vehicle 3, theft from vehicle 5, theft 11, damage 4
Cropston Dec 06 & Jan o7
Damage 2, theft of vehicle 1, theft from vehicle 1, burglary other 4 (all sheds), burglary 1
Thurcaston Jan 07
Burglary other 1, damage 1, theft from vehicle 2

Parking fines

CARELESS PARKERS in Charnwood should be warned, as the Borough Council's new Street Wardens will be enforcing parking restrictions later this year.
Charnwood Borough Council's existing Street Warden team will be extended to 18 later this year, when it takes over parking enforcement for the Borough, a role currently the responsibility of the police. The exact timing of the takeover is still to be confirmed but will be in the summer/early autumn.
The scheme is part of a nationwide initiative which will see councils take responsibility for parking, in what is termed as the 'decriminalisation of civil parking'. The County Council and other Districts are working in partnership to achieve this.
Charnwood Borough Council and North West Leicestershire District Council will be responsible for enforcing parking in their respective Boroughs. North West Leicestershire District Council will have five parking attendants.
Harborough District Council will take responsibility for the remaining areas including Blaby, Hinckley and Bosworth, Oadby and Wigston and Melton with a total of 28 parking attendants across these areas. There will be a total of 51 parking attendants operating across Leicestershire.
Leicestershire County Council will act as the central administrator for the scheme across the whole county.
Charnwood Borough Council's Street Wardens will take on the role of tackling drivers who park incorrectly or without consideration for other drivers such as parking on double-yellow lines and flouting parking restrictions. The aim is to allow police to concentrate on fighting crime. To illustrate their additional role they will wear highly visible uniforms to also act as a deterrent.
Leader of Charnwood Borough Council, Cllr Max Hunt, said: "If everybody parked carefully others would have little to worry about. Park a car or any other vehicle in the wrong place, and the area becomes a little less comfortable for everyone else, not to mention congestion, obstructing pedestrians and blocking vital emergency vehicles."
A parking ticket, known as a Penalty Charge Notice, will cost £60, or £30 if paid early and can escalate to £90 if not paid within prescribed time limits. The money collected will go towards running the enforcement service and making parking improvements.
Nicholas Rushton , Deputy Leader of the County Council with responsibility for Highways and Transportation, said: "It will be the job of the councils to keep roads clear and free from obstruction, to allow access for the emergency services.
"In town centres, pedestrians can feel safer crossing the road without cars being dangerously parked. The benefits that come from enforcing parking restrictions can greatly improve the living environment for the people who live in and visit Leicestershire."
For further information on parking enforcement, visit www.leics.gov.uk/parkingmatters