Book day characters
THE CHILDREN at Rothley School dressed
up as their favourite book characters as part of their celebration
of World Book Day.
Pic: children at Rothley school
dressed as their favourite
book characters.
The overall theme was Peter Pan to celebrate the release of the
sequel Peter Pan in Scarlet, and the whole school joined in with
an attempt to break the world record for the largest number of
people reading aloud at one time. The event also helped raise
funds for a new renal unit at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Fiona Parr, Head Teacher, said: "Working closely with children
every day, we understand the importance of the work that the
Great Ormond Street Hospital does. To show our support we took
part in the Peter Pan week great reading extravaganza. The importance
of encouraging our children to enjoy reading in a fun way is
our aim, alongside enabling children who are unwell to benefit
from our activity."
Pupil Emily Faulkner, aged 10, said: "It was a great day
and a really fun way to raise money for children at Great Ormond
Street who are ill. It was funny to see our teachers dressed
up too!"
o Year 5 pupils are learning Rapper Morris Dancing and traditional
Cornish clog dancing in a joint project with Loughborough Arts
Festival. Some of the pupils will perform on Monday May 26 on
an open air stage outside Loughborough Town Hall. This follows
a project last year where the school learned Yorkshire Longsword
dancing.
Fiona Parr said: "I am passionate about offering the children
a wide range of opportunities to perform and this project enables
the children to work with professionals and learn the folk traditions
around the British Isles."
Vandals wreck cabins
VANDALS HAVE wrecked the changing rooms
of a junior football club, putting its future at risk.
Rothley Imps Junior Football Club was formed 17 years ago and
has its base on the Fowke Street playing fields, with around
100 young people taking part in training.
The club has three cabins and two have been attacked by vandals.
Spokesman Ken Bentley said: "Although the club spent £1000
at the beginning of the season refurbishing the exterior and
interiors of the cabins, two have now been totally wrecked. We
now no longer meet the minimum league requirements as far as
facilities are concerned and there is a possibility that the
club may have to close although it has a membership of approximately
100 children."
The club has eight teams catering for ages 7-16.
Police have not found the offenders but have been taking steps
to combat antisocial behaviour in the village, talking to parents
and young people and issuing 15 warning letters.
The club is appealing for help in obtaining a second hand cabin
or any other form of aid to help keep the club going. Contact
Ken Bentley kjdnb@tiscali.co.uk
Karate club enthusiasm
STUDENTS from Rothley Karate Club came
away with an impressive haul of medals and trophies at a recent
Karate tournament held in Leicester.
Pic: Ben & Luke Woodhull
Instructor Sensei Tony Conroy said: "It was just rewards
for their determination and time spent practising before the
day. Special mention to five year old twins Ben and Luke Woodhull,
who managed to beat off stiff opposition from other clubs, to
gain 1st and 2nd place in the junior Kata event."
The twins, along with other club members, have trained for over
a year, meeting regularly once a week at the Rothley C of E primary
school, where they practise in three areas of Karate: Kihon (Basics);
Kata (Form) and Kumite (fighting movements).
Tony said: "Training at the local school is proving convenient
for the local students and so popular that we have enquiries
from other primary school pupils in the area."
Junior students train from 3.30pm every Tuesday, and older children
and adults at the old school rooms, Rothley every Wednesday evening
at 7pm.
Instructor Sensei Tony Conroy, 7th Dan said: "I am very
proud of the enthusiasm and team spirit of all my students, they
have a near 100% attendance every Tuesday and Wednesday".
Watch this space for this year's competition results: Rothley
are training hard to sweep the board.
Contact No: Ginny Beresford 0116 2374557 or visit our web site
conroykarate.com
Speeding traffic
PROBLEMS WITH speeding traffic outside
their homes are alarming residents of Westfield Lane.
Andrew McKaig has lived on the road for two years. "Traffic
is a major problem, the situation is getting worse and nothing
has been done about it", he said.
The road currently has a 40mph speed limit but Mr McKaig regularly
sees vehicles travelling at 60-70mph. "The road is getting
busier and busier, the risk of an accident is increasing and
it's impacting on the quality of our lives" added Mr McKaig.
In 2007 a car crashed into a front garden, demolished a garden
shed and stopped in the driveway of the neighbouring property.
Mr McKaig said: "I have two children and I won't let them
play in the front garden because of the accident."
Residents say there are problems of:
o speeding vehicles morning, noon and night
o rush hour periods particularly bad
o vehicles overtaking at high speed
o vehicles tailgating residents' cars after they exit from their
driveways
Mr McKaig attended the March meeting of Rothley Parish Council
with two neighbours to report on the problems and to request
support for a reduction in the speed limit to 30mph and traffic
calming measures.
Rothley Parish council has requested a meeting with the County
Council's Highways Department to discuss this and other road
safety issues in the village.
A Leicestershire County Council highways spokesman said: "Westfield
Lane in Rothley does not meet the criteria for introducing a
30mph limit and there are also no plans to introduce traffic
calming. A recent County Council survey has shown that traffic
speeds are not at a high enough level to introduce traffic calming
or a 30mph limit."
Katie’s music success
A MUSICIAN from Thurcaston has been nominated
for a national music award.
Pic: Katie Skilling
Katie Skilling (23) is one of four nominees for 'Best Female
Solo Artist' in this year's Indy Music Awards.
70,000 votes were cast for more than 700 artists from around
the country in 13 categories, and the winners of each category
will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on April 25.
Katie said: "When I found out I let out a scream as I really
didn't think I had made so many votes. Even if I don't win an
award on the night I feel that getting in the top four shows
the amount of people who supported me and that is enough for
me."
Katie, former Longslade College student, got her first guitar
on her tenth birthday and had been performing since the age of
15.
In the last six months she has been working in London with producer
Gary Bromham, writing and recording a new CD. "It really
has been a fantastic experience recording at Olympic Studios
in London and having Madonna and Elbow recording their latest
cuts in the bunkers surrounding me" said Katie.
She added: "I've always wanted to be a musician since the
first time I picked up a guitar when I was 10 years old, and
the area I am in, which involves writing, performing and recording
is certainly a massive learning experience for me every day."
For more information and music: www.myspace.com/katieskillingmusic
Teenage thief
A TEENAGER stole a handbag containing cards
and cash when he tricked his way into a Rothley couple's home.
A 78 year old resident of Templar Way found a young man in his
back garden who claimed to be looking for his dog. The teenager
asked the man to write down his phone number in case he found
the dog and while he was looking for a pen, the thief fled with
the handbag.
The suspect is white, 5ft 6ins, of slim build and aged about
16. He had brown hair and was wearing a grey jumper and dark
trousers.
If you have any information or had a visit from someone in similar
circumstances, contact DC Jason Fell on 222 2222 and leave a
message. DC Fell's identification number is 1133.
Crufts winner
A THURCASTON woman came first at Crofts
in a brand new competition called Cani-x.
Pic: (l-r) Nina Pulford with Deefer,
Racheal Bailey
with Jerry-Lee and Joanne Wilkes with Cheyenne
Nina Pulford was competing with her friends Racheal Bailey and
Joanne Wilkes in the Cani-x race, which involves running with
your dog over 2.5 - 5km.
Racheal, who runs an animal care business, has set up a Cani-x
group at Brooksby Equestrian Centre. Their first meeting was
on April 4 at 6pm.
For more details contact Racheal on 0792 11 36975 or visit her
website www.aknak9.com
French group
A FRENCH conversation and film group is
being set up in Melton Mowbray to meet the needs of people wanting
to practise and improve their French in a text book free, non-classroom
environment.
This regular event is intended to be sociable, relaxing and non-intimidating
and a forum for meeting people with a similar interest in the
French language and culture.
Games and activities are designed and introduced as an initiative
to get people chatting in French. Then after the practical fun,
sit back and relax with a glass of wine and watch a sub-titled
French film which range from classics to comedies.
"This formula seems to work well" says Sally Green
who organises the event, which initially started as a get-together
for a handful of Francophile friends, we have had a great response
and some really encouraging comments from our members, who range
from teenagers to people of retirement and age and even include
some native speakers."
The group will meet regularly every four weeks on a Wednesday
evening in Melton Mowbray. For more information, venue address
details, dates and to be put on the emailing list contact Sally
Green on 01530 832520 or 07932 744542 or via email at info@frenchbliss.co.uk
New PCSO
NEW POLICE Community Support Officer Alex
Foster has joined PC Steve Rhodes on the Rothley, Thurcaston
and Cropston beat.
Pic: PCSO Alex Foster
PCSO Foster 6673 replaces Sue Hall, who resigned in February.
He said: "I've worked on the Willowbrook beat in Loughborough
since July 2006 and have enjoyed getting to know the people in
the area. I have done a lot of work in the area and have particularly
enjoyed working with the boat owners who live on the Loughborough
navigation canal helping them with crime prevention and encouraging
them to set up their own Neighbourhood Watch group. When I first
joined the police I wanted to work on the Rothley neighbourhood,
which includes Swithland, Cropston, Thurcaston and Newtown Linford,
so when I was offered the chance to transfer from Loughborough
I was really pleased. It's nice to have new challenges and I
look forward to getting to know new people."
Youth AGM
ROTHLEY YOUTH Project will be holding
its Annual General Meeting at Quorn Hall Outdoor Education Centre
on Thursday May 22 from 6pm.
The aim of the evening will be to promote team building amongst
the members. The AGM is due to commence at approximately 8pm.
For anyone who would like to attend or for further details please
contact Lesley Peasant, chair on 07812 503961.
Police & Crime report
IN THE past couple of weeks I have returned
to the beat after six months away recovering from a knee injury.
I have now been joined by PCSO 6678 Alex Foster who has previously
worked in the same role at Loughborough. Unfortunately on my
return we were in the middle of antisocial behaviour and damage
in Rothley which obviously caused a lot of concern for residents
and businesses with damage to windows, walls and the football
cabin which has been totally wrecked. Mindless vandalism affects
many people and we should do everything to stamp out the problem.
In the past few weeks I have been working with local residents
and the businesses to try and prevent more offences and to try
and catch the culprits. Although we will never eradicate the
offences we can lessen the occasions they occur.
I have issued 15 antisocial behaviour warning letters to young
people which involve the young person with their parents being
visited and discussing with them low level antisocial behaviour
and its consequences. This is a step we use to hopefully prevent
the problems escalating and they can prove very effective. I
have also interviewed a few of the young people and although
I have more to interview they have been several admissions to
committing some of the damage in the village: to fencing, windows
and a wall. They will be dealt with through the official police
system.
I am also working with the youth leaders at the youth club who
have been assisting greatly to help to prevent further problems
and we are working with the young people on consequences of antisocial
behaviour and vandalism with talks with them and other planned
initiatives.
The result of this so far is that there have been no further
reports of damage or antisocial behaviour in the first two weeks
of April. Although this is very encouraging we need to continue
to work to keep any problems to a minimum. To assist with this
if you see any offences being committed or have any information
on people committing offences please let me know. Those causing
the problems are from Rothley and surrounding villages and although
some of them attend the youth club, the problem is not linked
directly to the youth club and their assistance helps to lessen
the problem.
After consultations across the five villages my three beat priorities
for the next six months are as follows:
o to improve road safety in the villages working with partner
agencies to combat offences of speeding
o to work with young people and partner agencies to reduce the
impact of antisocial behaviour in the area of School Street and
Fowke Street, Rothley
o to reduce antisocial vehicle use and illegal drug use on the
Bradgate car parks and in Rothley.
The results of the last six monthly priorities were: antisocial
vehicle use, 23 people dealt with for drug offences; school stranger
danger, over 500 children spoken to in one hour class sessions
We have completed speed checks twice at Westfield Lane, Rothley
as a result of complaints from residents and nine tickets were
issued on April 7 and ten tickets were issued on April 10. We
will continue to monitor speed at different locations when time
permits.
From PC Steve Rhodes 0544
Crime Report : Rothley Feb & Mar 2008
Robbery 1, Burglary 4, Criminal Damage 23, Burglary other 9,
theft from vehicle 5, theft of vehicle 1, theft 3
Bishop Tim visits Rothley
OUR PICTURE shows the Bishop of Leicester, Tim Stevens with
Rothley Brownies in the Old School Rooms, Rothley.
The Bishop dropped in on the final part of his Lent walk, which
had seen him visit the Anglican churches of Leicestershire over
six weeks.
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Planning
32 The Ridgeway, Rothley - erection of a 2.5 storey dwelling
and an apartment over garage following demolition of house and
garage
95 Station Road, Cropston - erection of single storey extension
to rear of dwelling for room extensions and swimming pool, including
roof terrace
15 Town Green Street, Rothley - erection of replacement single
storey extension to rear of dwelling
The White House, 4 Church Street, Rothley - erection of retaining
garden wall, garden shed, creation of new vehicular access and
change to ground levels
The White House, 4 Church Street, Rothley - demolition of outbuildings
(listed building consent)
Yoel House, 235 Station Road, Cropston - erection of two storey
extension to front/side of dwelling for consulting room and first
floor bedroom and formation of parking area to front
16 Breech Hedge, Rothley - erection of a first floor extension
to front of dwelling
7 Gipsy Lane Rothley - erection of car-port to the front side,
and single storey rear extension, to dwelling
8 Lanesborough Drive, Thurcaston - erection of single storey
extension to side of detached house
8 Hallfields Lane, Rothley - single storey rear/side extension.
Two storey front extension and enlarged/raised roof structure
30 Waterfield Road, Cropston - erection of pitched roof to side
and rear extension
11 Rowe Leyes Furlong, Rothley - erection of single storey extension
to rear & side of dwelling
41 Garland, Rothley - insertion of two dormer windows to front
of dwelling
111 Swithland Lane, Rothley - demolition of dwelling and erection
of replacement dwelling and associated garaging and parking
104 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley - demolition of bungalow and erection
of a dwelling house
82 Swithland Lane, Rothley - erection of two storey extension
to side and rear of dwelling
Fred’s wartime memories
ROTHLEY'S FRED Collins has written an addendum
to his book about his wartime experiences.
Fred (91) has sold 77 copies of his book 'Always a Fusilier:
a soldier's tale', which he published last year. The addendum
contains more of his memories: of training and service in the
Middle East.
Copies of 'Always a Fusilier' are still available, price £5
plus £1.50 p&p. Contact Fred Collins on 2303031
Marathon run for Scouts
GARY HARRISON ran the London Marathon in
April to raise funds for Rothley Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.
Pic: Gary Harrison prepares before
the start of the London Marathon
Gary, from Mountsorrel, ran the 26 miles in 3hrs 27mins, a personal
best, and the money raised will help to fund essential repairs
and modernise the Scouts' Rothley building. The race was part
of the training for Ironman Austria which Gary competes in this
July.
The Scout group would like to send special thanks to their main
sponsor Lafarge Aggregates Ltd who kindly gave a donation in
support of the group. Should any company or individual wish to
help with sponsorship of future events or new initiatives then
any suggestions will be gratefully received. Contact can be made
via the treasurer Jeff Hardy on 0116 2303041.
The next fundraising event is a Duck Race taking place on Bunney's
field in Rothley on Saturday June 21.
Scouts need leaders
ROTHLEY SCOUT Group raised more than £500
with their annual Santa Sleigh door-to-door collection.
Group Scout Leader Rom Bromley said: "Thanks to all those
who contributed so generously, your help and interest is much
appreciated."
The scouts next major fundraising event will be their annual
Duck Race, on Saturday June 21. "Lots of fun for all the
family so put this date in your diary now" says Ron.
Three scouts achieved a good result in the Charnwood Scout District
air rifle shooting competition. The team comprised Josh Butler,
Katie Ivison and William Ivison who together took second place
out of eight teams entered.
At the annual scout census taken at the end of January, the group's
membership stood at 64: 7 adults and 57 boys and girls. Ron said:
"Unfortunately, impending changes in the leadership will
mean that our numbers might have to be reduced significantly
if more adult leaders are not recruited in the next few months.
This reduction is most likely to affect the youngest members
of the group, the 6-8 yr old Beaver Scouts.
"Both male and female leaders are required over the age
of 18 years. So this is an appeal to anybody who might be interested;
to get in touch with me to learn more of our needs and what we
do. You don't need to have previous experience because training
is given, but if you have been a leader before then don't be
shy. Either way, let's hear from you. The Rothley Scouts are
a lively lot, but don 't just take my word for it, come and see
for yourself."
Contact Ron Bromley, Group Scout Leader on 0116 2376311
Patients praise Pilbeam Opticians
PILBEAM OPTICIANS has recently been given
the green light in a Patient Satisfaction Survey.
Pic: Jonathan Pilbeam & Practice
Manager Cathy Kelly
Nearly 250 patients were surveyed by an independent research
company who rate responses either with a green light for above
average, a yellow light for average and red light for below average.
Pilbeam Opticians received 12 green lights, four yellow lights
and no red lights. Areas covered included helpful and knowledgeable
staff, waiting time, thoroughness of eye examination, range of
frames available and whether patients would recommend their family
and friends to visit the Practice.
In total, 89% rated the serviced provided by Pilbeam Opticians
as excellent and 96% stated that their expectations were very
well met.
Jonathan Pilbeam, Managing Director of Pilbeam Opticians commented:
"It is vital that organisations providing a service have
independent assessments as to how well their clients' needs are
being met. This survey was very welcome in encouraging all the
team members at Pilbeam Opticians that their hard work and care
is appreciated. However, we are not going to rest on our laurels.
The survey provided patients with the opportunity to say where
our service could be improved and we are currently looking at
ways of addressing these concerns."
Jonathan would like to thank all those patients who completed
the survey.
Ladies golf get together
THE LADIES section at Rothley Park Golf
Club recently held a New Members and High Handicap players evening
at which Lady Captain, Debbie Borley welcomed the ladies and
encouraged them to attend high handicap events and coaching sessions,
both at home and away.
Pic: Lady Captain with new members
(l-r): New members
Alison Hercock and Ginny Mulligan - Centre: Lady Captain
Debbie Borley - New members Joy Chapman and Gina Cooper
Assistant Professional, Katie Tebbet, presented a lively rules
overview from the tee to the green, followed by a questions and
answers session. Ladies from the committee provided information
on competition formats, handicaps and alternative days for working
ladies to play their matches and competitions.
"The evening was a great opportunity for the ladies to meet
new faces and make dates for the coming season" said Lady
Caption, Debbie Borley. "We have a well earned reputation
of being a friendly, welcoming Ladies Section and this evening
is by way of continuing that tradition. We are sure that our
new members will quickly integrate into the club and join in
all our activities, both on the golf course and the social events
in the clubhouse."
New Member, Alison Hercock, found the evening both enjoyable
and informative. She said: "The event was very enjoyable,
to meet some members I hadn't met before, but was also very useful
and informative too. Katie talked through one of the holes on
the course, explaining what would happen in all manner of instances,
that we've all found ourselves in, was particularly enlightening!
Most of all though, having a forum such as this to ask the questions
that you think you ought to know, but would normally feel too
foolish to ask, was great. Many thanks to everyone who was involved
in organising it."
If you are a lady or junior girl considering taking up golf this
year, Rothley Park would love to hear from you and invite you
to visit the club house. So if you would like more information
about Rothley Park ladies section please contact the club secretary
on 0116 2302809 or visit www.rothleypark.com.
Parish Council notes
A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council
was held on February 18.
It was reported that the County Council is replacing street lights
in Babington Road, Knights Crescent, Macauley Road, Templar Way,
Woodfield Road, Woodgate and Greenway Close. Two extra bollards
are being installed at the end of the Ridgeway to stop vehicles
crossing the grass to join Swithland Lane.
It was reported that County Council funding for an additional
youth worker for Rothley Youth Club would be rolled over to the
financial year 2008/09 as despite advertising, a suitable candidate
has yet to be found.
A full meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on March 17.
PC Steve Rhodes reported that the Police will be using speed
cameras on Westfield Lane, Homefield Lane and Hallfields Lane,
following complaints from residents.
A resident of Westfield Lane addressed the Council about traffic
speed on Westfield Lane. The Police have agreed to monitor the
situation and although the Parish Council has already requested
a 30mph limit along the road, it was agreed to request an on
site meeting with the County Council to address this and other
issues in Rothley. Comment was made that measures can take up
to two years to be introduced.
It was reported that interviews for a part time youth worker
at Rothley Youth Club, conducted by the County council had now
taken place. The Youth group have now set up football and dance
workshops.
A FULL meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston
Parish Council was held on February 21.
Chairman Richard Younie reported that work to install new kissing
gates on footpath J60 would be carried out soon. Footpath J62
from Cropston to Swithland was partially blocked at the Cropston
end and it was agreed to report this to the County Council.
A full meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was
held on March 20.
It was reported that the county had taken no action about the
footpath J62.
PC Steve Rhodes reported that speed checks were being carried
out in the area, and he had been visiting schools on his beat.
He said that it was rare for him to be taken off his beat for
other duties, and he felt crime was reducing in the area.
It was agreed to discuss the erection of new village signs at
the Annual Parish Meeting on April 17.
History Society news
THERE WAS an excellent turnout for Rothley History Society's
February meeting.
David Ramsey's talk "The Slate Industry of Leicestershire",
focused on the early quarries at Groby and Swithland and with
the aid of maps and pictures illustrated their locations and
extant remains. Early in his lecture David altered the received
view that Swithland was the earliest quarry, by producing evidence
from the Vine Street Roman site which demonstrated that in fact
Groby slate was used until the 4th century. He continued with
a detailed analysis of slate geology, types, sizes, shapes and
evidence of working techniques such as notching and evidence
of squaring where the workmen of Roman times had used templates
to mark off the required shapes.
Moving on to more recent times David illustrated a number of
developments including the slate workshops and stables at Hallgates,
opposite Bradgate car park, where the Hind family had prospered
in the 18th century. Their raw materials came from the quarries
in Swithland Woods. Close by is The Brand opposite Pollards Quarry
where a tower used to house a steam water pump can still be seen.
One of David's most fascinating revelations was a collection
of documents from the Enville Collection which included accounts
discovered in 2000 for both Groby and Swithland Quarries for
the years 1852/53 which demonstrated the prices, range of products
and the sales areas covered.
Finally David kept the Rothley connection for the end of his
talk. Returning to Roman times he focused on the 2007 Roman finds
on the site of The Grange development in Fowke Street. Numerous
small slates had been unearthed suggesting a bay or conical roof.
However blue/grey Swithland slate was present along with Groby
products. The results of examination of forty slates removed
by Northants Archaeology are eagerly awaited!
At a meeting at the Rothley Centre, a Charnwood Borough Council
representative presented their assessment of the conservation
area in Rothley which had included a section extolling Rothley's
attractive cast iron street signs. However, strangely enough
only that same day the signs had been removed by the Borough
Council and replaced with cheap thin, tinny alternatives. Steps
have been taken and the Borough Council have, thankfully, found
the old signs (before they went into the skip), and they are
to be refurbished and put back where they belong.
We have been fortunate enough to obtain a large collection of
photographs of Rothley's architectural antiques and street furniture.
These will be on display at our forthcoming Members Evening (open
to all) on May 21 at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.
For our March meeting our speaker was Jane May from the New Walk
Museum, who came to give us a Potted History of Ceramics. It
was a most informative and appreciated talk. We started with
Anglo Saxons with their earthenware and were shown slides of
very basic mugs where the clay had been pinched to form a face.
At the base of these simple, but fascinating, mugs we could even
see the finger marks of the potter.
We learned that the early potters found their clay as near to
home as possible and where farm tracks had turned over the ground,
holes were dug and so the clay was extracted. Hence the expression
'pot holes', still used in talking about holes in the roads!
For that is what they really were.
Our outing to the potteries was a great success. Our first step
was at the newly revamped Wedgwood where we all took the self-guided
tour of the factory. We were very impressed with the beautiful
new products of Wedgwood, Minton, Royal Albert and Royal Doulton.
After lunch, on to Burleigh. What a contrast - from the ultra
modern Wedgwood factory to this fascinating and historic pottery
- an insight into the Victorian machinery and methods, but again
still turning out attractive, both modern and traditional, tableware.
We all staggered home with bags of varied ceramics purchased
from both Wedgwood and Burleigh.
By the time you read this we will have had our April lecture
given by Chevalier Eran N Bauer KCTJ, The Preceptor - East of
England, of The Grand Priory Knights Templar England and Wales,
on the Knights Templar in Rothley.
We are following this talk with an outing to London on July 3
when we shall be visiting the Temple Church, home of the Knights
Templar and St John's Gate, home of the Knights Hospitallers.
Helen Crowfoot is our speaker on Wednesday June 18. June being
a summer month, Helen will be giving a talk on a summer subject
- The Victorian Walled Garden.
We have no meeting in July or August, but look forward to our
September meeting on Wednesday 17th, when our speaker will be
Drusilla Armitage who will be telling us about 'Heraldry in Rothley'.
Our monthly meetings take place at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel
Lane, Rothley on the third Wednesday of each month (with the
exception of July and August). The hall is open from 7pm and
our meetings start at 7.30pm
From Rothley History Society
THURCASTON AND Cropston Local History Society's February meeting
saw the return of Brian Kibble to continue his historical tour
of Anstey, Then and Now.
This time, his main focus was Cropston Road, starting from The
Nook, and again he had a wonderful selection of photographs to
illustrate the changes that have occurred since the mid - 1800`s.
Brian reflected on the many changes in the use of premises from
private residences to shops and businesses. Where "Bradgate
Brides" now is had been occupied by J.W. Moore selling provisions
and also trading as a "tea and coffee specialist".
In the same vicinity in the 1930`s, there was a cycle shop that
also sold wirelesses.
The original Methodist Chapel was built in 1872, and an old photo
showed over 100 children, with the Minister, attending Sunday
School. Adjacent to where the chapel stood, remain the cottages
dating from 1899. A photo from the 1970`s showed a plumbing business
occupying the premises which are now known as the Experience
ladies hairdressing salon. Further along the same side of the
road is the Elms Farm House (opposite the Co-op supermarket)
which, together with its out- buildings, has been completely
refurbished to provide modern dwelling places. During World War
2 an upper room of the farm house was used by the A.R.P. wardens
and some memorabilia still exists from that time. The Pratt family
owned the farm and the last member of the family, a Miss Pratt,
lived there until the turn of the century. The land where the
present Co-op was built in 2003 was known as Miss Pratt`s field
and, despite several offers, she refused to sell the land for
building development during her lifetime, because she wanted
to maintain the pleasant view she had opposite her home.
Further along Cropston Road was the site of the Anstey workhouse
which was present in the 19th century, and on the outer boundary
of the village was the farm house (fairy recently renovated)
situated on the opposite side of the road between Link Road and
King William`s Way.
Returning towards the Nook, you pass Sheepwash Lane which was
the original road leading to Thurcaston over the Sheepwash Bridge.
The building that housed the Savoy cinema, and started as the
Coronet in 1937, eventually closed in the 1960`s, since when
it has been a garage, then a restaurant until its present day
use as Broughtons. Moving along, the residential Melody Close
is named after Melody Mills Wallpaper Company and the Methodist
Centre was created to replace the old Methodist Chapel which
was demolished in 1972.
Brian continued his talk by reminiscing, with the aid of his
photographic archives, about the different forms of transport
available from the mid 19th century to the present day. One vehicle
of particular interest was a 1905, privately owned, open- top,
double decker bus which provided transport between Leicester,
Anstey and Bradgate and is now housed in the Stonehurst Farm
museum at Mountsorrel. Provisions, from milk and bread to meat
and vegetables, could all be delivered to households by local
tradespeople, initially by horse drawn vehicles and later by
motor vehicles.
Traditional past - times such as fox-hunting (the Quorn Hunt
would meet in the Nook and process along Cropston Road) and the
1960`s wheelbarrow races from Martin School to Bradgate Rd. all
played a part in the tapestry of village life. In conclusion,
Brian showed some memorabilia from "Anstey at War",
both the first and second world wars, and some photographs of
old Cropston and Thurcaston, including Hugh Latimer`s House.
The Old School, Thurcaston was packed to capacity for our March
meeting when members and visitors gathered to hear Brian Kimberley
talk about local Archaeological finds.
Brian lives in Cropston and is the Parish Archaeological Warden,
so has acquired in-depth knowledge and expertise over many years
of experience in searching for and collecting items of local
historic interest.
Brian began by telling us that objects he had found cover a period
of 1500 years and that it helps to use your imagination when
studying artefacts especially when they are in a poor condition.
Also, two Romo - British kilns sites have been found in our local
area and we were all given samples of Romo - British greyware
pottery to take away for comparison, just in case we come across
anything similar in our own gardens! His hobby began as a schoolboy
and he has continued to enjoy spending many hours searching and
collecting, plus retaining immense enthusiasm for examining and
identifying his finds.
Our parish and local area has considerable heritage from Viking
Danelaw, which was evident when Brian began his slide presentation
of the many interesting artefacts he has found. These included
numerous Viking and Saxon coins, and the Viking coins had a mixture
of Christian and Pagan gods depicted on them. Generally coins
were (and still are) used to publicise who was the king/queen
and the religion of the realm. Samples Brian showed us, which
were found locally, included a Republican silver dinari (dated
between 2BC to14AD), Roman coins of Octavian, Mark Anthony and
Hadrian, coins of Henry lll, an Elizabeth l sixpence from 1561(very
rare find) and a gold George lll coin dated 1803. Another coin,
found near the north-east coast, was a gold alloy coin of a tribe
of that area and was engraved with a stylised horse. Brian told
us that gold used to produce coins may have been obtained through
import and export trading and that silver may have been sourced
as a by- product of lead mining in Derbyshire. Many coins were
engraved with stylised animals, gods, farm implements, etc.
Other interesting artefacts were a Bronze Age chisel from Wanlip,
an Iron Age safety pin (1st Century BC), a Roman disc brooch
and a copper alloy buckle (both found in Cropston), a Medieval
bronze key, a beautiful 14th century lady`s gold ring found in
Anstey that Brian had had restored and the seal of one John Durrant,
wool merchant and cutler, found in Cropston.
Brian emphasised that for all the amazing finds he had made,
there were many occasions when he returned home empty-handed
and that, particularly in the early days, it was not always easy
to identify objects accurately.
Finally, he had brought along some display cases containing some
of his treasured collection for us to view.
Our next meeting is on Tuesday 20th May when Wendy Freer will
talk about 'Feeding the English Country House'. Time 7.30pm.
Venue the Old School, Thurcaston.
On Tuesday 10th June we shall have a visit to Swithland Hall
- further details to be confirmed.
From Jennifer Kennington
Kart trophy winner
THURCASTON'S GEORGE Line demonstrated the
full range of his kart racing skills at the South Yorkshire Kart
club meeting by winning all three of his heats and the 12 lap
WTP Cadet Final.
Pic: George Line
He led the final from start to finish, fighting off some early
determined challenges. This fourth win of the day also resulted
in him becoming the South Yorkshire WTP Winter Champion.
George, a pupil at Martin High School, Anstey, has began his
battle to become the best cadet in the country competing in the
first round of The WTP National Championship, "The Little
Green Man Series" at the PF International Kart Circuit at
Brandon near Grantham.
The eight round championship at circuits all around the country
will pit George against the quickest UK cadet drivers many of
whom are run by professional teams with fulltime mechanics and
team managers. A real challenge for George and his family team
of Mum and Dad.
Sewing circle donations
BRADGATE SEWING Circle made two cheque
presentations of £400 each to the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation
and to Prostaid, at a meeting held at the Rothley Centre.
Accepting the cheque on behalf of the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation,
chief executive Alan Norman said the money would be included
in a total of £2,300, which would be used towards a garden
pond and terracing, to be viewed from the garden at Ulverscroft
Grange.
Receiving the cheque on behalf of Prostaid, Rob Banner, of Wigston,
a director and trustee, gave a brief history of the charity and
said it will help fund a nurse, one of only five in the UK. Money
is being raised for a prostate treatment centre in Leicester.
The monies donated have been raised with a series of coffee mornings
and sales tables.
WI news
THERE MUST be a number of us who are unaware
of the intricacies of the judicial system in our society and
may well ask what is the difference between a judge and a magistrate.
Members of Rothley WI now will be much clearer on the subject
thanks to Rosalyn Marsh whose presentation on The Role of the
Magistrate was quietly and professionally put to members at the
March 2008 meeting.
Ros began by offering all the members a seventeen question 'What
do you know about Magistrates' multi choice questionnaire which
soon had the walls of Rothley Centre buzzing enthusiastically
with teams of two or more determining another name for a magistrate,
who can become a magistrate, how old do they have to be and what
qualifications do they need.
A picture of the magistrate's role soon began to appear as Ros
elaborated her story and before the close of her presentation
a further questionnaire was circulated with certain fictitious
characters who had broken the law in a variety of ways. The members
had to decide whether the criminal was to be dealt with at Crown
Court or a Magistrates Court and judging from the responses,
almost everyone had taken into consideration everything they
had learnt from the afternoon's presentation and had more or
less got all the correct answers.
Ros Marsh and her presentation is certainly a worthwhile visitor
to any community group, her talk was very well planned and expertly
delivered. She was thanked most sincerely by member Barbara Harrington
for an informative and very entertaining afternoon.
In April we welcomed speaker Felicity Austin who had come to
talk to us about 'Life on the Home Front' and 1940s England.
The presentation began with a song. Felicity then set the memories
stirring for a number of members present with stories of how
Leicestershire coped with the stresses and strains of war torn
Britain, how everyone made the most of what food was available
at a time when the country only grew enough food for every other
person or less. Clothes were 'made to last' and there were no
doubt memories evoked about 'hand-me-down' clothes and shoes
and the saying 'make do and mend'. After all these things that
are taken completely for granted today were then not so widely
available and very expensive. In 1939 the rationing system was
introduced and books of tokens were issued to everyone including
children, with coupons from one's ration book being used very
conservatively. Felicity's presentation also covered aspects
of the dedication of the general public to helping each other
and how the women were encouraged in the Lord Wooton campaign
to 'Dig for Victory' producing foods grown at home and in every
patch of ground available. During the war it was not uncommon
to see members of the WI throughout the country knitting for
troops who were serving at home and abroad. The WI were always
well knows for their jam making! Felicity has a talent for producing
a warm and inviting atmosphere in her presentation, dressing
in costume and closing the talk with a sing song. It all made
for a very enjoyable afternoon's entertainment for RWI members.
There will be no speaker for the May meeting for Rothley WI.
On June 11 we will be welcoming a speaker from the PDSA to tell
us about the work of this vital charitable trust. This will be
an open meeting free of charge. Tea/coffee and a biscuit available.
We look forward to meeting you at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel
Lane, Rothley, 2-4.30pm
From Maureen Bulmer
THE DAZZLING array of colours in the garden
was the theme of speaker Linda Robinson's talk for the March
meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston WI.
Linda is the owner of a large garden and had made a photographic
diary as its many shades changed with the seasons.
She started her talk in the winter. Linda pointed out the muted
colours of the tree bark, the brighter variegated leaves on the
winter bushes. Cheery snowdrops and winter heathers brightened
up the quiet colours of the garden. Spring brought out a blaze
of yellow daffodils. Tulips and cherry blossom were added to
match the brighter skies of spring.
The summer garden exploded in an intense display of colour. Vivid
reds, pinks, yellow and blues, all complemented the warm hazy
days. Autumn's glow had the wonderful rusts of the Acer and Beech.
Pictures of ripe apples, pears and plums, ready to be picked,
made the mouth water. The fading colours of the remaining summer
flowers showed us the true beauty of the autumn garden. Our journey
finished where it began with the garden in winter.
This talk made members look forward to the brighter months ahead
and the colours to be enjoyed in their own gardens.
Our speaker in April was Jayne Goode who gave a demonstration
and talk on a painting technique called 'Wet on Wet'
We were told that this particular method of painting was created
by an American artist called Bob Ross. He invented a technique
which makes it possible for anyone to paint a picture. 'Wet on
Wet' literally means that you don't let a coat of paint dry before
applying another. However, a special kind of paint called Slick
Oil Paint is required.
Jayne started to paint using a large paintbrush, the type you
use for home decoration. Her other tools included a fan paintbrush
and a pallet knife. Very soon mountains, trees and a lake appeared.
We noted that Jayne only used five basic colours to create the
picture. The finished result was impressive
At the end of the demonstration Jayne showed us other paintings
she had created and one in particular, a vase of poppies was
greatly admired by her appreciative audience.
Monday Club
THE MONDAY Club, Cropston & Thurcaston
held its AGM in February.
During the course of the business a 'thank you' certificate from
Heart Link, our charity for 2007 was displayed following the
donation of £169.
Our elected charity for this year is the Renal Unit at the Leicester
General Hospital and we were pleased to welcome Mrs Sheila Price,
matron of the Loughborough Unit, which is a satellite of the
General. It serves adults living in Leicester's outlying areas
(including Cropston and Thurcaston) and extends into neighbouring
counties including Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire - all children
are treated in Nottingham. 78 patients were currently being treated
at Loughborough and the treatment involved undergoing dialysis
for at least four hours, three times a week.
Despite the wet and windy weather, some 35 members plus visitors
braved the storms and enjoyed a very pleasant March meeting.
The Club's outing to Twycross Zoo on May 12 will include a conducted
tour by Deputy Director, Mr John Ray and it is also hoped to
organise an outing on June 26 to the National Memorial Aboretum,
Alrewas, Staffs followed by a visit to Byrkley Garden Centre.
Trips were also planned to performances of the Full Monty on
July 5 and The King and I in September, both at the Loughborough
Town Hall Theatre. It was agreed that the Christmas Luncheon
on December 8 would again be held at Birstall Golf Club.
There then followed a most interesting talk by Mrs Margaret Dover
of the Leicestershire Emu Farm, Kirkby Mallory. Margaret's knowledge
of these fascinating creatures was most enlightening.
Margaret told us that emus were 'ratites' a diverse group of
large flightless birds, most of them now extinct. She answered
several questions about the birds on her farm, their behaviour,
traits, habits and 'lifestyle' and said they were hardy in this
country and can live for 25 years in a farming situation.
Margaret produced samples of eggs, some of which she had beautifully
carved and decorated in a Fabergé style and told us about
the egg carving classes she runs at the farm and of the various
products offered for sale, some of which we were able to sample
and purchase. Apparently the Aboriginal people of Australia have
been using one particular product for thousands of years to eliminate
the pain of inflamed joints and to heal wounds and hospitals
are now doing the same. Margaret's information leaflet contained
details of one particular product which 'protects and nourishes
… in all weathers", which would have come in useful
on the day of her splendid talk.
Before venturing forth again into the wind and rain, members
enjoyed a welcome cup of tea and biscuits.
In April the membership was treated, by Mr Chris Simpson of Mountsorrel,
to a trip down memory lane by way of listening to original recordings
of songs from the shows and films featuring the aspect of 'Boy
meets Girl - Broadway style'.
Chris started the entertainment with 'Some Enchanted Evening'
from South Pacific sung by Rossano Brazzi and concluded with
'True Love' sung by Grace Kelly and Bing Crosby, which was very
appropriate as the club celebrated the Golden Wedding Anniversary
of one of our members, Mrs Diane Whiles and her husband John.
The club had presented Diane and John previously, with a rose
bush called 'Golden Wedding'. Diane treated the members to some
gorgeous cream scones which were greatly appreciated and brought
the afternoon to a happy close.
There are still seats available for the organised day trip to
Twycross Zoo on May 12 and anyone interested in coming along
should contact Jenny Kennington on 0116 2365402. The coach will
leave Cropston at the Bradgate Arms on Station Road at 9am. Also
there is a chance to come to the National Memorial and Berkley
Garden Centre on June 26, leaving at the same place at 9am. For
further information please ring Ann Farndon on 0116 2363467.
Horticultural
THURCASTON & Cropston Horticultural
Society's first meeting of 2008 was also a 'first' for Mrs Mary
Frost who was invited to demonstrate her skill in arranging flowers.
Mary confessed she had never demonstrated her flower art to an
audience before, and was a little nervous. Mary trained as a
florist for four years at a shop near the Theatre Royal in Nottingham
and came face to face with some of the stars who appeared there.
As she explained whilst demonstrating, many of the flowers she
was using came from overseas as far as Singapore, reference the
orchids, and the beautiful white chrysanthemums from Colombia,
although the greenery was from her own garden. The beautiful
arrangement was later presented to Christine Timperley, who
due to ill health resigned from her position as secretary of
the Society. This announcement was made at the AGM which preceded
the flower demonstration, the remainder of the committee agreed
to continue with Paul Day as chairman.
Our February speaker Richard Yates gave a talk on caning for
indoor orchids, stating that many people believed such plants
were difficult to tend. Contradicting this Richard said the essentials
for success were warmth, light, water and feed. A good place
to grow an orchid was the bathroom or kitchen, as they like moisture,
in indirect light, water once a week, but do not allow to stand
in water. Feed is not always necessary, if in doubt do not feed,
a rule to member: water weakly, weekly, Orchids are usually planted
in bark which eventually rots, that is the time to replant, not
necessarily in a bigger pot. Push the fresh bark with fingers
in between the roots, the plant should be able to be lifted by
the stem without coming adrift from the pot. We viewed slides
of Richard's own orchids and the species he had discovered on
his visit to south east Brazil.
Auriculas sometimes look too good to be true, and that is the
impression they gave on the slides we were shown by our speaker
at the March meeting, David Tarver.
Part of the charm of the auricula is the simple flower, but also
the beautiful colour combinations, gold centres usually have
outer petals of red, brown, maroon, orange the cream or white
centres with red, purple, pink and near blues. Auriculas have
been a competition plant for 400 years. There is a species which
is regarded as a 'show' auricula in contrast to the Alpine variety.
Some of these plants have a white powdery deposit on the leaves
and stem which is know as farina. Originally the auricula came
from mountain areas of Europe. The Alpine variety grows easily
out of doors, preferably in shade, but they do not grow true
to seed. If grown in a greenhouse good ventilation is essential.
From Pam Mason
Burglars jailed
TWO MEN have received prison sentences
after police caught them red-handed burgling a house in Rothley.
A vigilant neighbour spotted the men, Patrick Cash (24) and Patrick
Cawley (24), behaving suspiciously outside the house in Knights
Crescent and rang the police.
The men were arrested at the scene, one in the driveway and the
other as he tried to run off. A handbag and porcelain figures
stolen from the house were recovered.
The two men were both from Northampton and pleaded guilty for
the offence. Cash was sentenced to two years and five months
and Cawley eight months.
Cricket awards
ROTHLEY CRICKET Club made the following
awards at its recent annual dinner dance:
1st team batting: Matt Hilton
1st team bowling: Bob Hack
1st team fielding: Chris Beall
2nd team batting: Jeremy Simpson
2nd team bowling: Matt Gale
2nd team fielding: Matt Gale/Jeremy Simpson
Perkins Shield: Jack Richardson
Williams Trophy: Gareth Wells
Terry Allenby Clubman of the Year: Steve Thomason
Bob Preston Trophy: Stuart Wolfe
Smewell Award: Brady Glennon
Police target speeding
THE POLICE in Charnwood are tackling speeding
on every neighbourhood beat across the policing area that has
highlighted it as a problem.
Local consultation has shown that speeding is a major concern
for residents on many neighbourhood beats. Officers have launched
a concerted two week campaign to tackle the problem by running
speed checks in local villages and using a mixture of verbal
advice, written warnings and, where necessary, giving out speeding
tickets which result in a £60 fine and three points on
the motorist's driving licence.
Villages that are being targeted include Anstey, Burton-on-the-Wolds,
East Goscote, Newtown Linford, Quorn, Rothley, Syston, Sileby,
Thurmaston, Wymeswold, Walton-on-the-Wolds, Woodhouse and Woodhouse
Eaves.
The Charnwood Local Policing Unit has its own speed gun, called
a PRO Laser, and has ensured that every beat officer and Police
Community Support Officer has been trained to use the equipment.
During a two week period, starting on Monday April 7 2008, the
device is being used in villages across the borough.
In the first week officers issued 25 Fixed Penalty Notices and
66 advice notices. Anyone caught doing double the speed limit
could lose their driving licence.
Officers are also using a Speedvisor, which is a new piece of
mobile equipment that flashes up if the motorist is speeding,
letting them know instantly what their speed was. Information
from the Speedvisor can be downloaded and analysed to show officers
exactly where the speeding 'hot spot' areas are. This will be
used to target future speed check operations.
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