.

5000 Distribution Issue 8 May 2017

Whitwick & surrounding areas

Whitwick • Thringstone • Swannington

. PLUS....

2 PAGE WEDDING FEATUREHistorical Group Guided WalksHough Mill TransformationJean: Queen of the Flower LadiesRegular features & lots more!

Do you know where to find this local landmark?See page 3 for more details and how to win a prize!

Front cover photograph by Second Look Photography 01530 263811 • www.secondlookphotography.co.uk

page 3 the voice

James Hayles HND. RRMFully insured and NPTC qualified

Tree Surgery, Spraying Specialist & Ground Maintenance

including Mowing, Fencing, Hedgecutting, Turfing etc.

LOGS SPLIT & DELIVERED £110 Large Load01530 271186 (home) • 07970 950129 (mobile)

Shackerstone Fields, Snarestone, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 7DE

Welcome... ...to the latest edition of the Whitwick, Thringstone and Swannington Community Voice!Front Cover Quiz... ‘Spot the Local Landmark’.How many of you can spot the landmark from our surrounding area featured on this May issue front cover?If you think you know the answer, please send your entry to Community Voice, 57 High Street, Ibstock, LE67 6LH or email info@yourcommunityvoice.net.

The winner (drawn first out of the ‘hat’ of all correct entries) will win Tea for two at The Eatery.

Last month’s answer and winner:Many of you correctly identified our mystery local landmark as The Swannington Incline. Mines in Swannington, Coleorton and Peggs Green transferred their coal on a horse drawn railway to the bottom of the Incline. The Incline was built in 1832 with an engine house at the top and an engine (now on exhibition at York Railway Museum) capable of pulling 3 trucks of coal up the steep slope. At the top of the Incline the coal trucks were attached to locomotives on the Leicester and Swannington Railway.Many of you also spotted our cheeky little alien ‘April Fool’ photo bomb!This month’s ‘High Tea for Two’ has been won by Barbara Parker and our picture shows the prize draw being performed by Des Crane of Ibstock Flooring.

page 2the voice

• Most carpets dry in 1-2 hours• Safe and non-toxic• Fully insured• Oriental rugs / leather cleaning

Don’t just have a clean carpet - Have a Spotless one!

Tel • 01530 587242spotlesslycleancarpets.co.ukMain Street • Newton Burgoland

Ask us toclean 3 roomsand we’ll clean

the 4th forFREE

TELEPHONE: 07963 431434 EMAIL: ginanickerson55@yahoo.co.uk

Open Tuesday to Friday 8.30am - 3.30pmSaturdays 9am - 1pm for breakfast

HOT & COLD FOOD SERVED ALL DAY

A SELECTION OF HOME MADE CAKES & PASTRIES

MORNING COFFEE

AFTERNOON TEA

LIGHT MEALS

Take away menu available - phone and collect

We can deliver afternoon tea straight to the door of a loved one, a friend, the office or simply

as a treat for yourself.

Ideal venue for Birthday Celebrations, Supper Evenings, Baby Showers & Christenings etc.

Hold your event either at The 3atery or our sister tea rooms at Long Whatton.

OUTSIDE CATERING AVAILABLEFor all types of events at a venue of your choice

NOW OPEN!

CONTACT THE COMMUNITY VOICEPost: 57 High Street, Ibstock, leics le67 6lH

Telephone: 01530 267344email: info@yourcommunityvoice.net

T H E F L O O R I N G A N D B E D C O M P A N Y ..…the home of quality flooring, beds and home furnishings

Voyage Maison is coming to FABCO…….From beautiful British-Made country scene feather-filled cushions to quality solid frame sofas, and British designed & manufactured pictures, Maison Voyage offers consumers a stylish solution to all their furnishing needs…….watch this space for updates!

There’s a fabulous choice of home furnishing items: feather filled cushions, throws, quirky ornamental items and unique stylish furniture pieces to enhance and add style to your home - there really is nowhere quite like FABCO! Why not pop along and see for yourself; and take up their offer of a cup of tea or coffee whilst you're browsing?They offer a ‘no-pressure’ relaxed shopping experience that so many people are talking about - come and experience this for yourself….only at FABCO!

Introducing Amtico Décor Amtico Décor is a premium flooring collection that combines the elegant and timeless Victorian style with the durable and long-lasting benefits of our premium Signature range.

The six original designs in this timeless collection are created from individually cut and bevelled pieces to ensure a stunning, high quality finish in a mix of traditional and contemporary styles.

Home & Style inspiration…..

Dents Road, Nottingham Road Retail Park, Ashby-De-La-Zouch. LE65 1JS 01530 564 864 fabcoltd.co.uk

There’s an amazing collection of quality mirrors - many can be ordered bespoke: Are you looking for a particular style of frame, a particular size - chances are FABCO can help!Many stock mirrors to take away today - and stocks change weekly!!

page 4the voice page 5 the voice

Lakeside Wills & Financial Services Ltd is an appointed representative of New Leaf (WWF) Ltd. Registered in England 7891401. Registered Address: Princess Caroline House, 1 High Street, 1st Floor, Southend on Sea SS1 1JE

Now at the Ibstock Business Centre, 57 High Street, Ibstock LE67 6LH, orhome visits at a time to suit your needs

What we do:

• Wills - Your Wants and Wishes

• Lasting Powers of Attorney - Who will make my decisions?

• Protective Property Trusts - A Solid Foundation

• Prepaid Funeral Plans - It’s all taken care of

Contact Sue Stanyarde: sue@lakesidewills.co.uk • w: lakesidewills.co.uk

Ibstock Office No: 01530 814689 • Mobile: 07826 097079

What’s on at Thringstone Community CentreTuesday 16 til Saturday 20 MayThringstone Panto and Drama Society’s production of White Christmas at Thringstone House Community Centre. Tickets are £8 for adults and £7 for children. Tickets can be bought by ringing 834575 or by contacting tickets@tpads.org.uk

Friday 7 JulyD-Tour Theatre Company present 3 one act comedy plays by David Tristram at Thringstone House Community Centre. Tickets are £12.50 to include a fish and chip supper (alternative vegetarian choice available if booked in advance). Curtain up at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available from the centre and from the theatre company direct on 07958 777191.

We are all very busy at the moment putting together the arrangements for Thringstone Live - THE Thringstone Charity Music Festival which will be at the community centre on 5th August. It is put on each year to raise much needed funds to keep the centre open and thriving.

As was the case last year, there will be music both inside the centre and outside the centre, food, bouncy castles and other things for the children, and a range of stalls. We try to put on music to suit all tastes, including giving young singers and groups a platform from which to move forward. If any local groups would like to take part for free in this charity event, or there are any people out there who would like to help by volunteering on the day, they should contact Nita on 223434.

Telephone: 01530 810725Old Weaving Mills, Church Lane,

Whitwick, Leicestershire LE67 5DHEmail: enquiries@smoothtouchservices.co.uk

The one-stop shop for all your cleaning and laundry needs.• Full Ironing Service • Laundry• Carpet Cleaning • Dry cleaning• Collection & delivery service available

ATTENTION HOTEL & RESTAURANTS:Please contact us for details of our fantastic linen hire services.

Aimed at our younger readers, here’s the latest in our series of short stories by author Rachel Greaves, told in rhyme about the adventures of an inquisitive Airedale, Ruffle and his escapades on a steam railway. The full range of these charming story and colouring books can be seen by visiting www.ruffletheraildog.co.uk or emailing ruffletheraildog@outlook.com

Ruffle and the dark shape

As Ruffle ran to the station one day,

He noticed a dog shape that was going his way.

Along the fence ran the shape as he did,

But when the fence stopped the dog shape then hid.

First the shape appeared upon the platform floor,

Then alongside Ruffle upon the station door.

The other strange dog shape was flat and dark,

Would it speak to Ruffle – perhaps a little bark?

Ruffle gave a bark and then he jumped around,

The shape followed exactly, yet it made no sound.

Whatever Ruffle did in this fun-filled game,

The dog shape was watching and doing the same.

A playmate then for Ruffle that will jump around and walk,

But one that he now knew would sadly never talk.

Looking at his shadow, Ruffle had to blink,

For he was sure his shadow had given him a wink!

Eric had been watching from the station window,

‘Ruffle, you’ve been playing with your own shadow!

That shape will follow you everywhere, always at your feet,

On every sunny day you and your shadow will meet!

®

KATS ANTIQUE VINTAGE & COLLECTABLES CENTRE

2 floors of antique, vintage and collectables including quality gold and silver jewellery at trade prices, coins, clocks, hand painted furniture, stamps, pictures,

militaria, china, glass, furniture, kitchenalia, giftware and much more.ALSO WANTED

• Gold & Sliver Jewellery • Scrap & Broken Items • Costume Jewellery • All Coins Militaria & Medals • Stamps • Watches • Silver Plate• All interesting antiques, collectables & furniture. • We pay more the highest prices in the area.Free valuations - Over 40 years experience

50 High Street, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3EEFind us on facebook - Open everyday inc bank holidays10.00am - 4.00pm home visits available

CALL 07792974309Public car park to rear of shop - Free parking every Sunday

Environmentally Friendly chalk and mineral paint. It is Zero VOC & Solvent Free with no odour.

We can also paint your own tired furniture. Please ask for more details.

As Seen

On TV2 Years

Trading Here

MITCH SHAWGeneral BuilderAll building work undertaken

ExtEnsionsAltErAtions PlAstEring

FrEE EstimAtEstel: 01530 260169 or 07969 353284

Tickets - £8 and £6 concessionstickets@casdg.co.uk or pay on the door or from our agents below:

COALVILLE ADULT SCHOOL DRAMA GROUP

The Adults School Hall

Bridge Road Coalville LE67 3PW

The Hermitage FM Coffee LoungeMemorial Square, CoalvilleTel: 01530 460992

Ashby Tourist Information OfficeNorth Street, Ashby-de-la-ZouchTel: 01530 411767

• Fully Qualified Tree Surgeons• Aerial Tree Pruning• Sectional Felling/Dismantling• Hedge & Shrub Maintenance• Stump Grinding• Fencing• Crown Reductions• Pollarding• 10 Years Experience• Covering All Aspects of Tree surgery• Regular Maintenance Contracts available

For a FREE quote callROB • 01530 457515 • Mob • 07800 907041

or email: plumbtreecare@outlook.com

Fully Insured for Public LiabilityAll Tree Work carried out to B.S. 3998 Standards

CARING FOR YOUR TREES

WELCOME TO OUR 2 PAGE WEDDING FEATURE

Your wedding day is surely one of the most special days of your life and, as such, should be the most enjoyable. Whilst planning and organising are, of course, important, it doesn’t have to be a totally stressful affair. There are lots of local professionals waiting to discuss your individual requirements and to ensure that your day is perfect in every way. Whatever your style, you don’t have to look too far to find the tailor- made answers to your wedding day wishes.

Even in this age of the internet and on-line ordering, for that special occasion, when nothing should be left to chance, nothing compares to being able to speak face-to-face with people who are waiting to make your day run like a clock-work fairy-tale.

‘Brides of Ibstock’, a local, family run wedding shop on the High Street, offers a large range of stunning bridal gowns and a wide variety of accessories, including tiaras, veils, shoes and a beautiful collection of bridesmaids dresses for all ages.

Elliot Jewellery, of Measham, will design and handcraft unique wedding rings made to order, for you and your partner. They also have beautiful collection of wedding jewellery and perfect gifts for Bridesmaids and Groomsmen.

Local hair-dressing salons, such as ‘Hair by Josephine’, have stylists who specialise in ‘special occasion hair’ and have a wealth of experience in creating the perfect ‘look’ for your big day and are happy to spend time helping to discuss and develop your perfect wedding styles.

The wedding flowers are, of course, an important part of any wedding celebration and experts, such as the renowned florists, Colledge’s of Whitwick, promise that you will love your flowers, because they love them too!

Getting to the ceremony on time is important, of course, but so is getting there in style! What about a cool vintage VW camper van? Choose a mode of transport that’s as individual as you are!

There are local venues available to cater for all tastes and budgets; From the stylish, modern luxury of The Hermitage Park Hotel to the vintage charm of The Palace at Ibstock or the warm, friendly atmosphere of The Odd House at Snarestone to the great facilities on offer at St John’s FC in Heather and Thringstone House Community Centre.

So you don’t even have to go too far to find your idyllic venue or those fabulous finishing touches to make your perfect day just, well ……perfect!

page 6the voice page 7 the voice

To book our beautiful gold retro chic 1966split screen camper ‘Rita’ for your weddingtransport please contact Collette on:-

Facebook: Cool Camper WeddingsTwitter: @ CoolCamperWedsemail: coolcamperweddings@ icloud.comWebsite: coolcamperweddings.co.uk

Are you gettingMarried in 2018/19?

Have your wedding rings made by a true craftsman!

Handmade, bespoke wedding & engagement rings made to order.

Any width available. Nine, 18 and 22 carat gold options. Red, yellow,

white or multicoloured gold. Plain gold or diamond set.

Any shape.

T H E B R I D G E S H O P • 3 9 H I G H S T R E E T • M E A S H A MS WA D L I N C O T E • D E R B Y S H I R E • D E 1 2 7 H R

Tel: 01530 515281 or 07971 411146

Meetings • Class Rooms • WorkshopsConferences • Parties • Weddings • Licensed Barsemail: thringstonehouse@btconnect.comwww.thringstonecommunitycentre.org.uk

Thringstone House Community CentreThe Green, Thringstone, Leicestershire LE67 8NRTel: 01530 222337

ROOMS FOR HIRE

Community Office, 3a Market Place, LE67 5DT 01530 459527

WHITWICK PARISH COUNCIL Open:

Wednesdays 1 – 4 pm Thurs/Fridays 10 am – 1 pm

KNOW YOUR COUNCIL – THIS MONTH MEET THE NEW PARISH MANAGER

News from your Parish Council

SPRING IS HERE and so ……………. ….. as the days get longer and we see nature coming back to life, the grass grows and the hedges blossom but sometimes this can cause a problem. The Community Office has been busy with calls about areas that might benefit from special attention. Although this is not always a direct responsibility of the parish council (depending on who owns the land in question), it might be useful for you to know that Leicestershire County Council Highways Department can be contacted on:

0116 305 0001 Wonders of Whitwick – tell us more (Email clerk@whitwickpc.org.uk with your good news)

It is amazing in Whitwick – why not tell your parish council what you love about being here. Do you have ideas on what might be good for Whitwick? The Parish Council welcomes opportunities to explore together projects that can be good for the community. Suggestions are always welcome and if the council can’t help, it might know some other way to get new ideas off the ground. I hope you won’t hesitate to get in touch by email, phone or personal visit to the Community Office.

COUNCIL MEETINGS COMING UP ARE 18 MAY, 15 JUNE & 20 JULY HELD ON THURSDAYS AT 7.00PM AT PARK HALL, WHITWICK PARK, NORTH STREET, LE67 5HB

www.whitwickpc.org.uk

Cathy Tibbles To the many people that I have already met or spoken to and who have given me a warm welcome – thank you. I’m enjoying getting to know the parish and learning my way around and hope that having worked for a parish council before will help benefit Whitwick too. In the past, I worked in school administration in Staffordshire & Birmingham so am used to budgets and busy offices. I have two grown-up daughters and am happily married. My husband and I enjoy going to the cinema, cycling, taking holidays in our motorhome (sometimes with our 3 grandchildren). You might be surprised to know that for my first job I got paid to watch TV!

Hobbies and interests:

Surprised to know

page 9 the voicepage 8the voice

A fully-furnished 17th century family home

www.doningtonleheath.org.uk01455 290429 • dlhmanorhouse@leics.gov.uk

Manor Road, Donington le Heath, Coalville, LE67 2FW /DoningtonleHeath @DoningtonLCC

Now openThere is an admission charge to the site, which allows unlimited

repeat visits for a 12 month period. See website for details.

Step back in time to explore our early 17th century house and its gardens and see how people lived 400 years ago.

Family

tickets available

R00

69

The Bardon Hill Dedicated Neighbourhood team are responsible for policing Ibstock. We are based at Coalville Police station and also cover Whitwick.

Hello my name is Mark Ball and I am one of the Police and Community Support Officers on the Bardon Hill Safer Neighbourhood Team. I have primary responsibility for Whitwick

I believe to build confidence and security in the community requires effective engagement and communication between the community and other agencies including myself and my

colleagues in the Leicestershire Police. I am always out and about walking on my beat, I am approachable so if at any time you want to stop me to have a chat or to discuss a problem please feel free to do so.

Community concern - Speeding

Right across North West Leicestershire, speeding is a concern for many people. We work closely with our Traffic Management team to identify problem locations and then take action. We are supported by a great team of Special Constables who have carried out a significant number of speeding operations in and around Ibstock.

If you have a concern about speeding please let us know by emailing us at speed.concerns@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk

If you would like to know more about crime and anti-social behaviour in the Ibstock area you can visit this link:

http://www.police.uk/leicestershire/NN45/

The team hold regular beat surgeries across the area. Our next scheduled surgeries are:

WEDNESDAY 10 MAY & WEDNESDAY 7 JUNE10am – 11amLinford Crescent Community Centre Linford Crescent, Greenhill EstateCoalville, Leics LE67 4QA

No appointment is necessary, please feel free to attend.

page 10 the voicepage 11the voice

LWelcome to Ibstock Tile & Bathroom Ltd.A family run business, ran by Sadie and Mark, take advantage of the free car park facing the showroom. Call in and visit our showroom, we will be happy to help with any of your requirements, we look forward to seeing you!

Monday 9am-4pmTuesday 9am-4pm

Wednesday 9am-1pmThursday 9am-4pm

Friday 9am-4pmSaturday 9am-12pm

OPENING TIMESOPENING TIMES

FANTASTIC MAY MADNESS DEALS NOW ON!

Is it time to refurbish your bathroom, or ensuite? We have many deals on throughout MAY!SHOWERS • BATHS • FURNITURE

WALL & FLOOR TILES • MUCH MORE CALL IN AND PICK UP A BROCHURE!

HORTICULTURAL & INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERS • SALES • SERVICE

SERVICING FROM £66

Now in stock, our brand new range of ‘cutting’ edge Honda mowers

MELBOURNE ROAD • IBSTOCK • LEICS • LE67 6NNTEL (01530) 260355 • FAX (01530) 262307

www.higgott.co.uk

FROM£749.00

WAS£849

FROM£129.00

WAS£179

FROM£299.00

WAS£364

RestorationIn 1994 Swannington Heritage Trust purchased the derelict shell of Hough Mill. After meticulous planning a restoration programme in 1999

repaired the structure and added doors, windows, floors, a cap and some machinery.

The mill opened to the public in 2000 and the restoration has continued, including a fantail, brakewheel and wallower. The volunteers in the Trust’s Mill Team are currently making and installing a sack hoist.

Summer OpeningOur 200 year old windmill will be open 2-5pm on Sundays from the 2nd April to the 24th September. We also open for community groups and schools by arrangement. Vehicle access is from St George’s Hill, Swannington, LE67 8QW.

A unique feature of the mill is its location next to the Gorse Field with its visible history of bell pit and gin pit coal mining. In the adjacent Califat Spinney there are ongoing excavations of the 1850’s coal mine and miners’ cottages.

Events at the MillOur family heritage events continue with The Coleorton Railway and Jessop’s Tramway guided walk on Sunday 14th May. Other events include:

• The Coleorton Railway and Jessop’s Tramway guided walk on Sunday 14th May.

• Ancient Mines to New Woodland guided walk on Sunday 17th May.

• Take Teddy to the Mill on Sunday 21st May.

Charity Trustees neededWe would like to strengthen our management by recruiting three new trustees. Trustees attend about six meetings a year and support the Trust’s activities. In particular we are looking for people with expertise in at least one of the following: business management, education, fund raising, heritage, law, marketing and nature.

Our Volunteer Recruitment Day for potential new trustees and other prospective volunteers (such as mill guides, publicity, administration and historical research) on Sunday 7th May, will provide an informal opportunity to visit our sites and chat with current trustees and volunteers.

For more information about Hough Mill, events and volunteer opportunities, have a look on our www.swannington-heritage.co.uk website, see our Hough Mill Facebook page or ring 01530 222 833.

See the amazing transformation of Hough MillMay is the month when we see our beautiful countryside and local villages at their best. Every shade of green appears amongst the trees, hedgerows and in our gardens, still with the freshness of spring. As temperatures rise, being out-of-doors has that feel-good factor. With easy access to both Charnwood Forest and the National Forest, we can enjoy our local area at its finest. It is no coincidence that it is in May that the National Forest Company holds its Walking Festival. In 2017, the Walking Festival is celebrating its tenth year. More than 80 walks are included across the National Forest. As usual, Whitwick Historical Group is included in the programme with two guided walks on offer.

The first walk, during the afternoon of 17th May, is one which is focused on the centre of Whitwick, starting and finishing at the Old Station. Sites of historical interest are visited and features of the village’s fascinating story are revealed by volunteers who are proud to share their keenness for our heritage. Afterwards, there is an opportunity to look around the Victorian Station building and enjoy light refreshments.

The second walk, on 23rd May at 1.30pm, is a new venture for WHG. The guided walk will follow a route near Mt St Bernard Abbey, the former Reformatory and Whitwick Quarry. This quiet part of Charnwood Forest is very special. The rocky outcrops are some of the oldest rocks in Britain and internationally renowned. The manmade features are exceptional too: the first monastery to be built in Britain since the Reformation; the site of the Reformatory where as many as 250 juvenile offenders were housed; and the spectacular flooded and now silent, hard rock quarry.

Both walks are fairly short but do include slopes. The first is on footpaths but the second involves some rough terrain. Both are free. Further details are available by calling in at the Old Station in North Street or on the WHG website, whitwickhistoricalgroup.org.uk. The National Forest Company publishes a guide which is available to download from their site.

Whitwick Historical Group has a motto: “Uncovering Our Past”. In May, we have the opportunity to do this in a different way and share our enthusiasm for some of the unique features we have on our doorstep. Search out those walking shoes and come and join us. We look forward to walking with you.

Guided Historical Walks

An aerial view of Mt. St. Bernard Abbey, a focal point of the walk on 23 May.

By the time you read this column I will no longer be your County Councillor. It’s been one of the great honours of my life to represent the people of Whitwick and Thringstone at County Hall; a privilege I will never forget. Thank you.

In looking back over the past four years I’m mindful of things achieved and disappointments of things not. I’ve been fortunate to visit Buckingham Palace, have dinner with inspirational servicemen and women and visit treasures in our county, like Castle House, which many don’t even know exist.

But as I look back, this column isn’t a place for politics, I am reminded of one night in particular.

About two years into my term of office at County Hall I received, out of the blue, an invite to be the guest of honour at a martial arts school annual prize giving. I spent a thoroughly enjoyable evening watching talented young people taking chunks out of each before going on to a rather raucous disco sadly interspersed, I’m sure for the students at least, with short bout of me ceremoniously doling out medals.

It was the first time I had ever been a ‘guest of honour’ and the poor kids who were receiving their trophies from me must have though ‘who the heck is this guy?’

But I learnt that night Stealth Black Belt Academy, based on Stephenson Industrial Estate, do things a little differently.

Stealth is the brainchild of Craig Smith, a man born and raised in Whitwick and who chose to return here with his family following a 12 year career in the Royal Air Force.

Craig wanted to do things differently though. Yes, Stealth was going to be about martial arts and physical fitness but it was also going to be fun so it shouldn’t have surprised me when just a few days ago I caught up with Craig to hear about Stealth’s latest adventure.

I had already heard about the endurance challenges and fight nights that members undertook so I was somewhat surprised when Craig told me of his and his members next challenge. Strictly Come Dancing is coming to Coalville.

Over the past year Stealth members have taken it upon themselves to raise £5,000 for MacMillan Cancer Support and with just a few weeks to go look set to be breaking that barrier comfortably as they don sequins and Lycra for a night of quick steps and rhumbas.

As you might expect from a group of exceptionally fit martial artists these men and women are not taking the challenge lightly.

Craig tells me that with the demands of running a business he is only managing about sixty minutes of training a week whilst some of the competitors are putting in hour after hour to take part in group and show dances.

Judges have been arranged from local dance schools, a compère ‘the spitting image of Sir Bruce Forsyth’ will be on hand to make sure things go smoothly and exceptionally tight costumes have been ordered ‘and that’s just for the men.’

I ask Craig will the fundraising go on after the target has been raised? “Of course, we will be having our Queen’s Garden Party in June. It’s part of the ethos of Stealth: we want the business to be successful, we want to teach and help adults and children improve their fitness but we also want to have fun and give back to charity as well.”

It seems to me that isn’t a bad ethos for running any business. Isn’t it great when that kind of success story, that kind of dedication, stems out of our community, the one I’ve been so proud to represent?

Local writer and now former councillor, Leon Spence brings us his regular column

You can make a difference...

Grandad’s Carers WorkFLEXIBLE hours

are KIND and CARING andhave EXCELLENT training

Get in touch…Call us on: 01455 292648Or email us on:

www.givecarehomecare.co.ukwww.managementteam@givecare.co.uk

When was the last time you sat and reviewedyour financial future? - We can help!• Don’t leave your future financial security to chance• We can help you plan and help you understand how your current plans are working• Bleathwood IFA Ltd offers truly independent financial advice

Bleathwood regularly help individuals and business people plan their financial futures.

What our clients say...“You are giving us the best advice we have ever received, it relates to our situation.”

For a no obligation initial meeting please call Kevin on 01530 417943or email info@bleathwoodifa.co.uk

Bleathwood IFA Ltd • Bleathwood House • 45 Upper Packington Road • Ashby-de-la-Zouch • Leicestershire LE65 1ED

www.bleathwoodifa.co.uk

Welcome to 2017Financial Services you can Value

page 13 the voicepage 12the voice

Bill and Ben landscapesBill and Ben landscapes

all aspects of landscaping catered for including a full design service.

Thornborough Rd, coalville, le67 3Tl 07914 088814 / 01530 484167

Facebook@billandbenlandscapes

Fencing Block paving TuRFingFencing Block paving TuRFing

Robert J Dutton

Your local Plumbers, Heating and Drainage Engineers

www.robertjdutton.co.ukTel: 01509 502402

All major credit cards accepted

Boiler Service from £60inc. VAT

➤ Boiler installation, service & repairs Gas & LPG➤ Central heating systems➤ Plumbing for new builds & renovations➤ All drainage jobs undertaken➤ Gas fire installations & inspections➤ Complete bathroom & kitchen installations undertaken➤ Free, no obligation quotations

Established 1965

In last month’s Community Voice, we recounted the history of the Colledge’s, a well known and long established family and business in Whitwick.

Sadly, in December 2016, Jean Colledge passed away and, as a tribute to a much loved lady of Whitwick, here is Jean’s story.

Jean was born in June 1939, in Battram, the fourth child of Agnes and Ernest Waltham, who subsequently went on to have six more children. Rather frail as a child, Jean adored her father, who worked locally as a farm labourer, but who still found time to look after her when she was poorly.

As the family increased, they moved to a council house on the St Christopher’s estate in Ellistown, where Jean attended St Christopher’s church with her father.

At the tender age of 4, Jean trapped her thumb in the mangle whilst helping with the laundry and the nurse had to come in every day and dress it. As this was before free NHS visits, it wasn’t easy for a family with half a dozen children, to find the funds for this treatment. However, the nurse was willing to accept Jean’s butter ration in lieu of payment. (Jean didn’t like butter any way!) She often told the tale of how she made it clear to the nurse that if she hurt her, whilst changing the dressing, then she couldn’t have her butter!

In 1949, the family moved to a new council house on Sharpley Avenue, Broomleys. A van took their belongings, but, as the family had no car, the children walked, with Agnes, from Ellistown to Coalville, with the littlest ones in prams and

pushchairs and the older ones pushing them. When they got to Sharpley Avenue, the roads had not as yet been built, so the family had to struggle through thick mud to reach their new home.

Jean’s life was full of children with (eventually) 5 brothers and 4 sisters. She was happiest when surrounded by children and caring for people. As a Sunday school teacher and a member of the Youth Fellowship at St David’s Church, she often attended joint events with Whitwick Youth Fellowship and at several of meetings she met a shy, rather awkward young man named John Colledge.

Jean left school at 15 and was told that she couldn’t work in a factory because she had a deformed hand. She got a job in the office at Pickworth’s in Coalville. She would get the youngsters ready for school in the morning, cycle to work, back home at lunchtime to see if her mum and the baby were alright, cycle back to work and then cycle home again after work!

After 6 months at Pickworth’s, Jean was made redundant and started work the following Monday at Mee’s bakery in Coalville. Here she felt at home, Mrs Mee believed you should work hard all morning and take it easy in the afternoon. During these afternoons, she taught Jean cross stitch, tapestry and embroidery, and instilled in her a love of crafting which stayed with her for life.

In 1956, at Whitwick Wakes, John finally plucked up the courage to ask Jean out. They were married in April 1958. On the day of her wedding

the local boys came round to ask Jean to go out and play cricket with them on the green and were quite put out that she turned down their invitation.

Jean left Mee’s to join the Colledge family business, but her lovely bosses provided the wedding breakfast and a 4-tier cake for their valued employee.

Sue was born in 1960, followed by Helen in 1968 and Steve in 1977. In that year Jean helped Brenda and Colin Timson to arrange a street party in the Kings Arms car park for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee.

Village life was important to both Jean and John. John was the secretary of the PCC, a bell ringer, a member of the Men’s Fellowship and a governor at Parsonwood Hill School. Jean was a choir singer and a member of the Mothers Union, becoming the enrolling member for many years. She was the leader of the Church Girl’s and Church Lad’s Brigade for many years in both Whitwick and Broomleys.

Jean retired in1999 and put the family business in to the capable hands of her daughter, Sue who has now taken on the mantle of ‘Queen of the Flower Ladies’.

When her health failed, she joined an Age UK lunch Club, which closed down because there was no funding. This didn’t deter Jean, she set up her own lunch Club for retired and disabled folk, raising funds all year to take them on outings and buy them Christmas and Birthday presents. Jean’s Lunch Club is still going in her name.

Jean; The original ‘Queen of the Flower ladies’

page 12the voice page 15 the voice

For many parents, the need

for childcare does not end

once their child goes to

school, and for working

parents it is particularly

important to have reliable

good quality care available

at the beginning and end of

each day, and throughout

the school holidays.

With this in mind we operate three Before/After School

Clubs, all managed by fully qualified staff teams and

registered with Ofsted.

We offer:

� Drop off and collection from local schools

� Breakfast and 2 course tea provided

� Sibling discounts

� Childcare voucher payments accepted

� Tax Free Childcare scheme registration

FREE TRIAL SESSIONFREE TRIAL SESSION

Contact the Managerat the club of your choice

to arrange yourfree trial session.

SW

IN

GB

OAT

OUT OF SCH

O

OL

CL

UB

S

Wo

rkin

gTogether to provide Quality

Child

care

www.swingboatnurseries.co.uk

Healthy and nutritious meals

Children can choose from awide range of activities.

Each club has itsown Mini bus

VALIDFOR ONESESSION

PERCHILD

The Crafty Kids ClubWoodcote Primary School,

ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH

Tel: 01530 416622 Mobile: 07791 519072

The Extra Time ClubWhitwick Park Hall, North Street,

WHITWICK

Tel: 01530 814477 Mobile: 07926 762192

The Whacky Kids ClubWoodville Infant School,

WOODVILLE

Tel: 01283 552277 Mobile: 07785 745643

MINOR DENTS

BUMPER SCUFFS

ASHBY CARE CENTRE

PAINTWORK SCRATCHES

For a FREE no obligation quote, call Alan Wilson on

07964 130607Email alan.wilson@chipsaway.co.ukwww.chipsaway.co.uk/alanwilson

ChipsAwayCarCare CentreUnit 3 Machin’s Business CentreWood StreetAshby de la ZouchLE65 1EL

Professional quality automotive paint and bodywork repairs that are quick convenient and fully guaranteed.

Professional QualityOur fully-equipped CarCare Centre allows us to deliver quality repairs to everyday damage

ConvenientSame day repairsCollection and return service from home or workRepaired to a high quality commercial standardAt a fraction of the price of traditional body shop methods.

Value for MoneyWe specialise in repairing everyday car paint and bodywork damage and because we don’t deal with major crash repairs, we don’t have the expensive overheads that a traditional bodyshop might have - meaning we can pass these savings onto our customers.

A42South

Wood St

Nottingham Rd

Leicester Rd

A42North

A511

A511

FIND US HERE

Across1. oily or greasy (9)5. Bet (5)7. Young eel (5)9. Land measure (4)10. sultry (6)12. Dairy product (6)13. Hex (4)15. crowd scene actor (5)16. Hidden drawback (5)18. Accumulated (9)

DoWN1. cutting tool (3)2. remedy (4)3. Wildcat (6)4. contradiction in terms (7)6. Article of clothing (7)8. Findings of a jury (7)9. of times long past (7)11. Attack (6)14. Dull pain (4)17. concealed (3)

FANCY PUTTING YOUR BRAIN TO THE TEST?Here’s a bit of fun to get you thinking.(Answers on inside back cover - no cheating!)

Can you solve the clues and spot “THE ODD ONE OUT”?

A) UK’S 1967’s Eurovision Song Contest winner.

B) British singer and entertainer, born in Ireland as Daniel Patrick Carroll, in 1927.

C) This was ‘Daddy’s’ profession, according to the 1980’s song by The Clash (…but he never hurt nobody!)’!

D) The Prince of Thieves.

THE ODD ONE OUT!

page 16the voice the voicepage 17

• Same Great Products • Same Great ServiceAs we launch our new and improved Shop at Home Service, we havemanaged to reduce our overheads significantly – allowing us to passon savings directly to our customers, who we have served in Ibstockand the surrounding areas for the past 5 years.

• Even Better Prices! • Unbeatable Savings!

Provide any High Street quotation and we will beat it!

Ibstock Flooring & BlindsTel • 01530 264210 • Mobile: 07506 580555Email • descrane@virginmedia.com8 Laud Close • Ibstock • Leicestershire LE67 6NL

Ibstock Flooring & Blindsare Going Mobile! ( v

Karen’s K9 Kutz DOG GROOMING

• Caring and professional Dog Grooming service• City and Guilds Level 3 Qualified• Fully insured• Friendly home based on one-to-one appointments• Trim to breed or to request

To book an appointment call Karen on:

07904 232591 or contact through Facebook at: ‘Karen’s K9 Kutz’

86 Silver Street • Whitwick • Coalville • LE67 5EU

Karen’s K9 Kutz DOG GROOMING

The George & Dragon Freehouse & Restaurant Ashby Road, Thringstone, Coalville Leics, LE67 8UH

e: thegeorgeanddragon2014@outlook.co.uk www.georgeanddragonthringstone.co.uk

Friday 26th from 5pm through to Monday 29th till 5pm

BEER FESTIVAL

A SELECTION OF LOCALLY

SOURCED REAL ALES AND CIDERS

T: 01530 222 282

www.facebook.com/thegeorgeanddragonthringstone.co.uk

Candy Floss Bouncy Castle

Live BandsBBQ

Everyone was ‘seeing red’ on this year’s red nose day as local schools took part in variety of fund-raising activities. The money raised by Red Nose Day does incredible things, both at home in the UK and across the world’s poorest communities.Whitwick Holy Cross School raised a terrific £142.36 for Red Nose Day. The children came to school dressed in an item of red clothing in return for a £1 donation.

Swannington CE Primary School raised an amazing £152.64. Not a bad effort, as there are only 78 children at the School! They bought and wore red noses throughout the day and all dressed red. A special lunch time menu included red nose cupcakes for dessert!

Well done to all who donned their RED NOSE and did their bit to make the world a brighter place!

SEEING RED! Rounding up local fundraising on Red Nose day, which took place on Friday 24th march.

Beautiful, decorativeaggregates deliveredstraight to your door.Available in both loose tipper lorry loads and bulk bags.

For more information, please contactour friendly team on 01530 275555or visit www.central.uk.net

We accept all majorDebit and Credit Cardsas payment.

Cent

ral L

incs

Flin

t

We also stock goodquality Topsoil

and Bark Mulch!Ask us for more information

Cent

ral B

uff C

hipp

ings

Cent

ral B

lue

Slate

The ChurCh of england in WhiTWiCk, ThringsTone and sWanningTonServices in May – see our website for details: www.whitwickparishchurch.org.ukSt John the Baptist Church Whitwick ......every Sunday at 10.30am and 6.00pm

St Andrew’s Church Thringstone .............. 1st and 3rd Sundays at 9.00am, and 2nd and 4th Sundays at 10.30am

St George’s Church Swannington ............ 1st Sunday at 4.00pm and 3rd Sunday at 10.30am

The next monthly meeting of Whitwick and District U3A will be on Friday 19th May: this will be the Annual General Meeting. In addition, it will be another opportunity to discover what the U3A has to offer to retired people or those approaching retirement. Our members are involved in a wide range of Interest Groups with something to cater for most tastes. At the AGM, Group Leaders and others will be on hand to answer any questions and pass on information about our U3A.

After the official business, there will be a light-hearted music quiz provided by our own popular Juke Box Group. This is a Group which loves the sounds of the 60s and 70s, the era when the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Tamla Motown artistes, Cliff, Elvis and many more were top of the Hit Parade. The Juke Box Group meets monthly; each month, they have a theme for their musical selection. Sitting with friendly like-minded people, relaxing, listening to and sharing memories of those terrific songs is a convivial way to spend a morning and definitely a “Hit”.

To join in and discover more about our thriving and sociable U3A, come along to St. David’s Church Hall, Broom Leys, Coalville LE67 4RL at 1.45 for a 2.00pm start. The U3A is a non-political and non-religious organisation: everyone is welcome. There are also full details of Whitwick and District U3A, including particulars of all the Interest Groups, on our up-to-date website; search online for http://www.whitwicku3a.org.uk./

If you have an interesting local interest story and want to share it with us then please send us 500 words by email with 2/3 accompanying print quality pictures and we will do our best to publish it in the Community Voice.

Simply submit your article and photos to us at: info@communityvoice.net

every care is taken to ensure that all information printed is accurate. However liability cannot be accepted for any loss or damage due to any inaccuracies or omissions within this publication.

All rights reserved. No advertisements or editorial within this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. This applies to printed or electronic reproduction.

Printed and published by community Voice, 57 High Street, Ibstock, leics le67 6lH.

To advertise please contact Steve Tilbury or Graham Tyers on 01530 267300, or Hannah Playle on 01530 267344.

page 19 the voicepage 18the voice

• Class MOTs from £25.00• Car & Van MOTs 6 days a week

at times to suit you• Motorbike & camper van MOTs

carried outPlease bring this advert with you to claim your discounted MOT!• £30.00 Car MOTs • £40.00 Van MOTs

YOUR LOCAL ELLISTOWN TESTING STATION

Tel: 01530 262743www.andersoncommercials.com

WE ARE RECRUITING!• Experienced HGV mechanics• Part-time accounts administrator

Good rates of pay - enquire within or email:ella@andersoncommercials.com

Please mention that you saw the advert in ‘The Voice’!

A) Sandie Shaw

B) Danny La Rue

C) A Bank robber

D) Robin Hood

They all wore, or have been portrayed as wearing, tights or stockings except for A) Sandie Shaw, who was famous for performing barefoot!

THE ODD ONE OUT!Answers....

MobilityScooters

Great range of pre-owned mobility scooters, rise & reclining chairs and wheelchairs

We don’t just want to sell you any scooter...We want to sell you the RIGHT scooter!Come and see us at Coalville Market:TUESDAY 8am-2pm • FRIDAY & SATURDAY 8am-4pmOr call 07971 207394 (Andy) / 07833 104569 (Malc)

Part ExchangeSales & RepairCleaning & ValetingServicing3 months warrantyAll scooters supplied fully servicedBatteries supplied & fitted free

Local business is a finalist for the ‘Product of the Year’ category of the ‘Networking Mummies Awards’, 2017.After many years of commuting from Whitwick to Warwickshire local lady, Chloe Mabey, decided that it was time for a change of direction regarding her career. From working in the automotive industry, including building British Prestige cars, Chloe decided to see if she could expand her hobby of jewellery making into a business.

Her young son Fletcher was, at that time, going through the painful ordeal of teething and Chloe set about applying her skills to crafting a ‘teething necklace’ to alleviate his suffering. It proved to be very effective and in June, 2016 she decided to test the market to see if there was a demand for such an item.

Chloe was overwhelmed by the response that she received and her successful designs have now been recognised as she has become a 2017 finalist in the ‘Product of the Year’ category of the ‘Networking Mummies’ business awards. This award has helped to raise the profile of her company, ‘Maybe Baby Teething & Fiddle Jewellery’, and has increased the demand for her products to the point where Chloe hopes to be in a position to provide employment to local people in the near future.

For more details see: www.maybe-baby.co.uk and facebook page www.facebook.com/MaybeBabyProducts.

‘MAYbE bAbY’ MEAnS bUSInESS!

NOTE THE DATES!Deadline date for bookings for the

June issue is Monday 22nd May.Deadline for copy is

Wednesday 24th May.

Geoff WigsteadAssociates

ceramic tiling

telephone : 07720443722email : geoffw@charnwood.uk.com

2 Wellingtonia CloseShepshed Leicestershire LE12 9FB

Specialists in all aspects of wall & floor tiling

We take the job of sellingyour home seriously.

Moving you moves us too.To find out more abouthow we can help with yourhouse move, Call us on

01530 810033

newtonfallowell.co.uk