Jan 2013 Spotlight

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 16th February - Advert/Articles needed by 2nd February

Fund Raising Success at Brookvale High SchoolYou maY have seen an article in the Leicester mercury, back in December 2012, about the £2,837 raised by Brookvale High School for the teenage cancer ward at the Leicester Royal Infirmary. This ward has been provided by the Teenage Cancer Trust, and they needed £500,000 to finance the project.I am so proud of the staff and students at Brookvale for raising such a

large amount for this brilliant cause. Led by Harvey Singh (Maths Teacher) and Manraj Walia (Science Subject Leader) our students raised nearly £3,000 by organising a Halloween disco, a bucket collection at Christmas, a “Brookvale’s Got Talent” show and a Year 9 sponsored walk.I was lucky enough to visit the ward, in the company of another one of

our teachers, Rachael Gowdridge, who together with her husband, raised enough money to tip our school total over the £3,000 mark. We were all impressed to see the great facilities that are now in place, and hear how the Teenage Cancer Trust will support this ward, and 6 others around the country, into the future.Our school motto is “Achievement, Care, Excellence”, and by raising this

money for the teenage cancer unit, our whole school community has shown that we like to put our care for others into practice.

Katie Rush Headteacher

GROBY YOUNG PEOPLE MEET MEMBER OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

EaST mIDLanDS mEP Emma mcClarkin (pictured above) arrived in Groby on a wet evening in December to meet young people and adults from ‘Extend’ , the youth and children’s work of Churches Together in Groby. The organisation is committed to helping children and young people

get the best out of life through fun activities and learning. With God’s help, they are encouraged to make trusted friendships in safe places, explore their faith and give back to the community. Emma was given a very warm welcome and was introduced to

the range and scope of Extend’s work. She watched a presentation which covered all aspects of the work including the nuts and bolts of funding and finances. Our MEP commented that, compared with other situations, what we are doing represents ‘really good value’. She also expressed appreciation and gained a good understanding of the commitment of so many volunteers.The young people were keen to tell Emma what a difference Extend

activities had made to their lives. Camps, fun-filled events and opportunities to learn about God; to lead and to take part in projects to help others (both in this country and abroad) were all highlighted. Luke, Matt and Rebekah said: ‘We really enjoyed meeting Emma and it’s nice to know that we have done everything we can to help get funding. It was interesting hearing about her job and the things the European Parliament does! It was surprising to see the figures and it opened our eyes as the youth, to the struggles our community is going through. and makes us appreciate how much we have and how much is going on along with all the activities our youth worker pursues so diligently!’Emma was very impressed with all that she heard and was keen to offer

her support in Extend’s search for on-going funding to ensure that this very valuable work has a secure future.

PARISH COUNCIL VACANCIES TO BE FILLED BY ELECTION ON 7TH FEBRUARY - SEE PAGE 3

Week of fun activities planned a WEEK of fun activities has been planned this month to help blow away the Christmas cobwebs and get people out and more active.

All of the sessions throughout the week, running from Monday 21 to Sunday 27 January, are free or cost just £1. They include energetic activities (such as kickboxing), to the more exotic (belly dancing) and the gentle (tai chi and yoga). The full list can be viewed at www.lrsport.org.uk/movemore, together with booking details. Contact the physical activity team on 01455 255875.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-January 2013 • Tel: 01530 2440692

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3Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-January 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

I once met a girl who had trouble written all over her. It wasn’t the most artistic of tattoos.

ELECTION: 7th FebPLEaSE be advised that an election will take place for the two vacancies on Groby Parish Council. Polling Day is Thursday 7th February 2013 7.00am - 10.00 pm - there are 3 nominations for the vacancies:The following persons have been nominated:STaTEmEnT aS To PERSonS nomInaTED

Barry JonESLeigh Zouga QuILTERCatherine THomPSon

If any person withdraws their nomination by 12 noon on 16th January 2013 this notice will be amended.Beverley Greenwood MBA.,BSc.,AILCMParish Clerk

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Groby Village Society Preservation ~ Conservation

Communal Interests

Forthcoming EventsThursday January 24 - My Favourite Things - Members are invited to bring an object or collection of interest

Thursday February 28 - Groby Old Hall: What Time Team Didn’t Tell You - Mr David Ramsey

Thursday March 28 - A.G.M.

Thursday April 25 - Richard III’s Leicester - Mrs Alison Coates

Thursday May 23 - Wot No Polar Bears? - Mr Simon Coates

Thursday June 27 - Egypt the Ancient Land of the Pharaohs - Mrs Anne Halsey

Thursday July 25 - Hey Diddle Diddle - Mrs Sally Leong

Thursday August 22 - Awaiting Details

Thursday September 26 - Chris & Ken The Railway Men (Part2) - Mr Ken Issitt & Mr Chris Bates

Thursday October 24 - Nell Gwyn - Mrs Sally Henshaw

Thursday November 28 - The Museum of Childhood - Mr Trevor Parr

Thursday December 19 - History of Loughborough Carillon - Caroline Sharpe (Carillonneur)

Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall

Starting at 7.30pm. For Further Details Contact

Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842

Email: groby.villagesociety@

tiscali.co.uk Non Members are Welcome

Roadworks in the village

Temporary Closure of: Leicester Road, Anstey Lane, Ratby Road, Newtown Linford Lane, & Markfield Road, Groby.Leicestershire County Council has granted the temporary closure of the above roads.Leicester Road will be closed from the junction with Markfield Road to

The Rookery. These works were planned for 16th and 18th January 2013 but due to the weather conditions the revised dates will be 21st and 23rd January - . Newtown Linford Lane will be closed at the junction with Leicester Road. The junction with Ratby Road, Markfield Road, and Leicester Road will

now be closed on the 21st, 22nd and 23rd January.Leicester Road, at the junction with Anstey Lane will be closed in an

easterly direction on the 22nd January 2013 for 1 day.These restrictions are to enable Leicestershire Highways to safely carry out

carriageway resurfacing.THESE DATES ARE ALL WEATHER DEPENDENTDuring the closures, the alternative routes will be signed on site.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics.

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My brother goes bowling once every three years to make sure he still hates it.

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Christmas Day In Anstey

Groby PlayersGRoBY PLaYERS will be staging their next performance on 14/15/16 march 2013, in the Village Hall, Groby. The play is titled ‘Secondary

cause of Death’ by Peter Gordon, and features the hapless ‘ Inspector Pratt’. We have performed the 2 other plays in this series, which were were well received and hope this proves to be the same. Tickets will be available during

February in the Village Hall, Groby on Saturday mornings, but may be reserved earlier by Tel/ Text 07790 861033 or 0116 2877373, or by emailing: [email protected]

Dot Hollins

Bradgate Flower Club - first meeting of the yearBRaDGaTE Flower Club’s 2013 programme of monthly meetings starts on Wednesday 6 February. Our guest is Beverley artis from

Long Eaton and her theme is ‘A Perfect Day’. The demonstration will be held in Newtown Linford Village Hall (LE6 0AE). We meet at 7.30 and visitors are

welcome - a charge of £5 is made. Details from Geraldine Abbott on 01530 415378.

a GREaT TImE was had by all who attended Christmas Day for those alone, we catered for 80 people, everyone had a 5 course meal plus a present and a goody bag stuffed full of essentials but also some yummy treats.We had musical and stand up comedy entertainment between each

course and the obligatory games of bingo at the end with some great prizes. There are so many people and companies to thank for making this day

possible but if I could just mention a few…Leicestershire County Council Community Forum and Anstey Parish

Council for their grants. All the companies who donated gifts/goods/money.. Age UK, Anstey Co

op. Anstey Chippy, The Coach and Horses and The Crown - Anstey. United Biscuits, Boots, Avon, Aldi – Coalville, Britvic, Cotts beverages – Kegworth. Jacobs Bakeries – Wigston and Next.All the individuals who sent us donations, or donated their time and efforts

such as 100 scrummy homemade mince pies, beautiful table decorations, flower decorations for the stage – the list goes on…Thanks to all the volunteers that came forward to help, we had a really

great team of people who provided transport, entertainment, help with setting up the room, sitting with the guests interacting and serving them.Ann Lundy and her team from the Yorkshire Building Society in Leicester

for all their fund raising efforts which means we have £700 as a great starter for next year, meaning that we can say with some certainty that we will be able to go ahead in 2013!Last but not least I would like to pay tribute to the late Dave Ford who

started doing this 6 years ago – we just had 20 people on that first time and every year we have more and more.. tragically Dave died of a heart attack in May, but his family, I and all the volunteers will keep this special day going – thanks Dave

Kerry Sharpe


Carols around the Christmas tree in GrobyGRoBY celebrated Christmas in good voice as 300 people gathered around the Christmas tree in the car park at the Stamford arms to sing carols accompanied by the Ratby Band. As we enjoyed singing the words of the traditional carols we were

also reminded that the birth of Jesus continues to impact lives today, and that the town of Bethlehem where Jesus was born, is one of many places that still needs our prayers. With soup and mulled wine generously provided by the Stamford

Arms and mince pies provided by Churches Together in Groby, everyone was happy to stay and chat afterwards and a good time was had by all. Money was also raised for the charity ‘Embrace the Middle East’ which supports projects to improve lives across the whole region. And was that really a camel making an appearance.....? Yes, it was - his name was

Desmond and he was there to advertise the ‘Angel at Large’ panto in which he had a starring role!With thanks to the Ratby

Band, the Parish Council and Brian and all staff at the Stamford Arms.

My kids are five and seven. We couldn’t think of better names.

The internet is where we now find love (but don’t be too picky!)noWaDaYS it seems that internet dating is the second most common way of meeting a partner. It has lost its stigma, and is now second only to meeting someone through friends.

The digital revolution has certainly provided greater and more convenient access to potential partners, but psychologists still warn that online romance has its pitfalls. Before the internet existed you might have met half a dozen ‘possibles’ in your daily life. Now you can compare the merits of dozens and even hundreds of possible matches. This is good, but it may also encourage you to develop a ‘shopping mentality’ when it comes to love. Serial romancing can do you long-term harm. It can make you judgemental and picky, always on the look for the next name on the list, who might be the ‘perfect one’.

According to one estimate, online dating has attracted more than 25 million unique users around the world. Some of these people may well be ‘possibles’ for you, but do remember to be realistic, and don’t let yourself be hurt when you fail to find the person of your dreams. The report was commissioned by the Association for Psychological Science.


My identical twin was run over by a steamroller last year. He’s not been the same since.

GrobyOnline with Norman Griffiths

This month – the Groby triangle

A trip down memory lane: Two life long friends turn the clock backHow many of us as fresh faced five year olds, on our very first day at school, look around the classroom and think

‘will any of these children be classed as ‘true’ friends fifty years from today’? Well none of us of course, we are far too young and nervous to be thinking of anything other than ‘when can I go home?’, but about a year ago my great buddy, John Hughes, pointed out to me that it was fifty years ago that we both embarked on our path through education at the Groby Infants School on Leicester Road. Fifty years! Surely, we should commemorate that occasion, but how? We decided to take a literal stroll down memory

lane, and if we could take in a few local hostelries along the way, then so much the better. REaD THE FuLL aCCounT aT: https://sites.google.com/site/grobyonline/a-trip-down-memory-lane

Don’T PanIC. This isn’t a tale of aircraft disappearing over Groby on their way to or from East midlands airport. And there are no reports of vehicles vanishing from the A50 or residents

being abducted by aliens. This Groby triangle only exists in cyberspace – it’s made up of the three independent community websites which serve the village. The oldest of the three, www.groby.org.uk, has a bright new look following

its recent makeover. Launched in 1999 the site was soon attracting attention from far and wide and in 2002 was described as an outstanding community site in the Sunday Times Doors Awards. It has been featured in the Leicester Mercury and on Radio Leicester and was Runner-up Village Web Site of the Year on UK Villages Online.The site content is broadly divided into history, community, photo gallery,

business, and fun. The community pages contain information about all aspects of life in Groby. There are details of medical facilities, schools, councils, the police, churches and listings of clubs, societies, the Scouts, the village hall and more. The business section is no less comprehensive, with details of the whole range of businesses to be found in the local area.But some will feel that it is the history and gallery pages which are at the

real heart of the site. This is the place to go to dig into the history of the village. There are articles across a wide range of subjects, fascinating personal recollections recounted by local residents, and a wonderful gallery of local photographs. It doesn’t matter whether your interest is the quarry, Groby Pool, the Grey family, flora and fauna or Sam’s Transport Café. You’ll find it here.In fact these pages are so engrossing it would be easy to miss out on the Fun

section, and that would be a shame. And that’s because it’s not just fun, it’s Groby fun. You can colour the Stamford Arms or complete a 48 piece jigsaw of the Old Hall online. You can also visit Groby Pool and add wildlife with the click of a button or test your knowledge with a Groby quiz.The second element of the Groby Triangle is this magazine’s website,

www.grobyspotlight.co.uk. This is primarily the shop window for the magazine and has details of contact details and advertising rates. You can also check on publication dates and if you want to submit an article, letter or advertisement you can check the deadlines. It also has a link which enables you to read the Spotlight online, very useful if you have recycled your copy and need to read an article again or want to find one of the advertisers. Although there are no links on the site to earlier editions, all you need to do is Google ‘Groby Spotlight’ together with the date, if you know it, and links will appear to www.issuu.com where back copies can be found. If you have relatives or friends outside the village who want to keep up to date with local news here’s their chance to read the Spotlight online. Alternatively you could buy them a subscription as a Christmas or birthday present!The third part of the Groby Triangle is www.grobyonline.tk, which can

also be reached by following the link from www.grobyonline.co.uk. This website is local news based and is primarily an archive of some of the articles that have appeared in the Spotlight. New articles are added as the Spotlight is published and the latest news is added between editions. If Groby news stories are featured in the Leicester Mercury, or on the regional radio or television websites, brief details are included together with links to click for the full stories. The site can be searched enabling access to all the articles on a particular topic, for example local planning issues such as the Bloors planning applications and appeals.The three websites each have a different theme and complement one

another with very little overlap. Each provides a link to the others which helps visitors find what they want. Together with www.groby.com, the official Parish Council website that has details of meetings, minutes, council news and useful links, they provide comprehensive information about the village of Groby.

�Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-January 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

I’ve developed a taste for fabric conditioner. My doctor says it’s just comfort eating.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-January 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069�

The other night I ate at a real family restaurant. Every table had an argument going.

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Keep a firm grip on reality so you can strangle it at any time.

Are we consuming our way to disaster?a nEW study published recently reminds us of Gandhi’s wise observation that the world has enough resources for everyone’s need - but not for everyone’s greed.Two-thirds of consumers

interviewed in six large countries agreed that “as a society, we need to consume a lot less to improve the environment for future generations” (66 per cent) and that they feel “a sense of responsibility to purchase products that are good for the environment and society” (65 per cent). These findings are based on an online survey of over 6,000 consumers in six countries (Brazil, China, India, Germany, the United Kingdom and the USA).The trouble is that many of the

consumers who respond positively to such a survey are, apparently, the same people who wait outside stores before dawn to snap up sale bargains.Can we reasonably expect

the general public to resist the tide of marketing activity and product innovation? Can we hold consumers alone responsible for the excesses of today’s lifestyles? On the other hand, can we blame business people for producing and promoting goods and services that create and sustain jobs?A glimmer of hope comes

from the fact that the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility is beginning to be taken seriously by companies large and small, especially in countries where conspicuous consumption is most prevalent.Professor David Crowther,

chair of the international Social Responsibility Research Network (SRRN), has shared his views: “I think that practice is gradually improving, but people have not caught up with this and still expect poor behaviour from organisations. So they find what they are looking for.“Reducing consumption is not

the answer when we have an economic system predicated on production and consumption. The focus should be on more pertinent things such as sustainable consumption – which implies both environmental sustainability and less exploitation in the supply chain.”For further exploration of this

topic visit the websites of the New Economics Foundation, and the SRRN (mentioned above).

Give a bird a home National Nest Box Week 14 - 21 February

HERE is an excellent chance for you to encourage birds in your garden to come home to roost. Literally. Organised by the British Trust for Ornithology (www.bto.org), National

Nest Box Week aims to encourage people to protect the bird life we still have in the UK.National Nest Box Week started in 1997. As more trees have been cut

down in recent decades, birds have lost their natural homes, and can struggle to raise a family. Putting up a nest box is a great way of helping them. Response has been so positive that nowadays there are between five and six million boxes across the UK.Don’t worry if you’ve never put up a bird box before. Visit the website

to find lots of tips on how to get started, as well as information on how to build/buy the box, and what to do then. Different types of boxes attract different types of birds. Small holes in nest boxes will attract blue tits, great tits, nuthatches and house sparrows. Large boxes with holes will attract starlings, greater spotted woodpeckers and even little owls. An open fronted box will attract robins and pied wagtails. Very big boxes attract, amongst others, kestrels, jackdaws and tawny owls.

Who told you what to wear this morning?WITH CHRISTmaS and the new Year sales just behind us, it is likely that you have something new to wear. But who chose it? A recent survey has found that up to two thirds of men rely on their

partner not only to buy their clothes, but also to pick out the tie, shirt, shoes or suit to be worn on most days of the week. Which means that, nationwide, 12 million men go to work each morning wearing something chosen for them by their wife or partner. It seems that to love him is ... to help to dress him.The survey, by a men’s clothing website (www.stylepilot.com) found that

men have more confidence in their partner’s judgement than in their own. “Many men don’t know where to begin when it comes to sorting out their fashion sense.”

Eating Disorders Awareness Week 11 – 17 FebruaryEaT Too muCH, eat too little, eat as much as fast as you possibly can.... sadly, there are many people today who suffer from eating disorders. Eating disorders have a sad reason

behind them. They are usually a result of someone trying to cope with overwhelming emotional problems that can range from shame, bullying, abuse, desertion, fear, loneliness, boredom, unhappiness, and prolonged stress. While eating disorders are most common in young women, they can affect both men and women of any age.If you suffer from an eating

disorder, or a desire to self-harm, or know of someone who does, you may be interested to know about a charity called Anorexia and Bulimia Care, or ABC for short (www.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk ).ABC helps people who experience

any kind of distress over eating, from anorexia to bulimia to binge eating. The charity was founded 23 years ago by Doreen Williams and Maureen Morris, who were concerned at the lack of support groups for people living with eating disorders.The charity is run according to

Christian principles, but exists to support ANYBODY who suffers the effects of an eating disorder, regardless of age, sex or faith. ABC holds training days for schools and churches, when people can learn about eating disorders and receive information and resources. It also offers a helpline for eating disorder sufferers and their families. There is even an adult befriending scheme where someone who has recovered from an eating disorder is matched with a person who is currently suffering. That way the sufferer can receive support from someone who knows what they are going through.Eating disorders are very serious

and the sufferers need our compassion and care and prayers. There is an eating disorder ‘voice’ which sufferers often hear in their mind. It says things such as ‘You are disgusting and fat. You are not going to eat that. You deserve to die.” Such hatred does not come from God, and the person needs help and love to begin to be released from it.


Whatever you do, always give 100 per cent - unless you’re donating blood.

Will it be the steamroller or the coach and horses?

An update from Norman Griffiths on the Bloors planning appeal

GRoBY will have to wait for the Planning Inspector’s decision to see if Bloors lose their appeal against the refusal of planning permission for a housing development on land next to the cemetery. If Bloors are successful local residents may be left wondering whether they have been flattened by a virtual bulldozer or trampled under a coach and horses.The virtual bulldozer is the need for housing and the belief by some that it is the Government view that only

the construction industry can kick start the economy. This has led to the bonfire of planning legislation and its replacement with a new streamlined version that has a presumption in favour of sustainable development at its heart.However, if a council can

demonstrate that it has a 5 year supply of sites suitable for development it may still have the equivalent of one of those men that you sometimes see at roadworks holding a stop/go sign. But if developers can validly challenge the 5 year supply figures they can drive a coach and horses through a decision to refuse planning permission.

Developers challenge, developers win

Across the country developers have challenged and developers have won. And in the case of a 200 house estate in the Stroud area they won even when the planned development was outside a defined settlement boundary on a site considered by the local planning authority to be unsuitable. They also won in Wellingborough on an appeal for 65 dwellings. Had the council been able to demonstrate a five year housing land supply the appeal would have been dismissed, the Inspector said. They won in Exminster when an Inspector decided that there was no five year housing land supply and that there had been a consistent under delivery of housing allocations. Deliverability is key and another important issue.

Why is all this important?It’s important because the

Borough Council argues that it has a five year supply of housing land, and this has helped provide a comfortable backdrop to the other arguments about the pressures on local schools and health services, and the green wedge which helps local villages retain their individual identities.But closer to home than Stroud,

Wellingborough and Exminster there has been a challenge to the Borough Council figures, and one which can only make Groby residents feel rather uneasy. On 18 December the appeal decision was published in respect of an application to build 28 homes in Stanton under Bardon, and one of the central issues was the Five Year Housing Supply. The Planning

Inspector and the Borough Council had different views regarding the Council’s figures.“In essence, the Planning

Inspector did not support the method the council had used to produce its five year housing supply figures,” said a spokesperson for the Council. “Our figure was calculated using a recognised method and the council believes its figure is credible. However, the Inspector did not share this view. The Council is assessing the implications of this decision and awaiting the outcome of the Groby appeal.”

Deliverability also an issue

In addition to the method of calculation there was a challenge regarding whether or not the Council had delivered adequate housing in earlier years. It was argued it had not and that the buffer of 5% in it’s figures should be increased to 20%, but the Borough argued that any shortfall was because developers hadn’t built the houses for which permission had been granted. “The Council has suggested that

the under delivery is not due to the lack of planning permissions but is due to the lack of implementation of these permissions,” the Inspector commented. One of the schemes cited as not delivered is the 20 dwellings site at Markfield Road, next to Groby church which was started but not completed. “The Framework does not give this as a justification for persistent under delivery,” he added. “Therefore, based on the evidence provided for the previous 6 years, I conclude that a persistent under delivery of housing has been demonstrated and a 20% buffer should be applied.” He also remarked that “having found that there is not an identified supply of deliverable sites sufficient to provide five years worth of housing, the relevant policies are not to be considered up-to-date ... as such, the proposal should be considered in the context of the presumption in favour of sustainable development.”The Borough view is that “once a

development has been approved it becomes a committed development

and can then be included as part of the 5 year housing supply. If however the application expires without being implemented it falls out of the calculation. The Inspector also seems to be taking the view that some extant (i.e. existing) consents may not be delivered and therefore shouldn’t be included. This is an element of his report which gives us some concern because if a development has commenced then even if it is mothballed for a number of years or sold on it is still capable of implementation.”

If they win the debate moves on

It is perhaps the issue of the Five Year housing Supply which gives those who have been involved in resisting the development the most concern. If Bloors are successful then the debate will move to another stage as the issues concerning local infrastructure come to the fore. Not least will be concerns about the pressure on local primary schools. A County Council spokesperson has confirmed that “if we can’t provide places at Lady Jane Grey, we’d look at providing places at one of the other two schools.” There is little in that statement to comfort those who live on roads used by parents’ cars to take children to Martinshaw Primary School.It’s reported that according to

the two lawyers representing the Borough and Parish Councils, Tim Leader ( HBBC) and Simon Stanion (Groby PC), it’s too close to call. Whatever the outcome the local community has done its best to promote the case against. Simon Stanion has commented “At the end of the day I think we (the Groby Parish Council team) can put our hands on our hearts and say that we did everything we could to get our case over to the Inspector.” If Bloors succeed the Inspector

will spell out his reasons. The Government push for development to try and kick start the economy combined with the housing supply figures may well sway the inspector to allow the appeal. It may be that a steamroller followed by a coach and horses is an irresistible force.


I was delighted to get a job as a circus acrobat. I really landed on my feet.

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New RCC Guide from the Big Society NetworkPaRT oF the Big Society Project’s remit is to produce ‘How to Guides’ for voluntary and community groups. a new guide has been compiled: a guide to Disclosure & Barring Service for voluntary organisations working with children, young people or vulnerable groups.Cath Walker, RCC Big Society

Network Development Officer, produced the guide with assistance from the Resource Centre, Brighton and local partners including Leicestershire Cares and Esther Chamberlain from the Children’s Workforce Development Project at Voluntary Action LeicesterShire.The guide encourages voluntary and community groups working with

children (under the age of 18) or people from vulnerable groups to adopt safer recruitment measures to ensure that any members, employees or volunteers are suitable for the tasks they undertake. Suggestions include a recruitment policy for staff and volunteers, collecting references, a trial period for all new staff and volunteers etc.The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), formerly the CRB, performs

the role of checking an individual’s background in relation to convictions, police information, and in some cases the ‘barred lists’ which records if someone is unsuitable to work with children or people from vulnerable groups.Before asking someone to undertake a DBS check, the organisation needs

to consider whether they are legally entitled to ask the person to reveal their conviction history. Guidance is given on the circumstances it is necessary to undertake a DBS check, and the two types of checks available for people who work/volunteer with children or with people from vulnerable groups.The guide outlines the responsibilities organisations/groups have regarding

safeguarding, such as informing the DBS if an individual has harmed, is believed to have harmed, or poses a risk to children or vulnerable groups . Amongst various explanations of ‘terms’ used, the guide outlines the process of obtaining a DBS check, and includes a list of local ‘Umbrella Bodies’ which process the DBS check on the applicant’s behalf.The guide can be accessed via the RCC website: www.ruralcc.org.uk/big-

society-network.html. Alternative formats can be made available upon request.

Groby WI Programme 2013January 17th: aBF The Soldiers Charity - Stuart Baynes

February 21st: Social Evening

March 21st: Canine Partners - Malcolm Wells

April 18th: Church View nursery - Helen Osborne

May 16th: Resolutions - Breast Care Presentation

June 20th: Birthday - 60th Birthday Dinner at Beaumanor Hall

July 18th: Librarian To The Rich & Famous at Royal

ascot - Penny Hodgson

August 15th: Laughter Yoga Leader - Marlies Flintham

September 19th: Introduction To Herbs - Lynne Jan-Watson

October 17th: Helping Hedgehogs - Colleen Powel

November 21st: aGm - Social Evening

December 12th: Christmas meetingLocal Walks Last Wednesday In The month at 2pm

Derbyshire Walks – To Be arranged By margaret Gamble

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I never drink unless I’m alone or with somebody.

GROBY COMMUNITY COLLEGE ALLOTMENT NEEDS YOU...

to help turn this ... back into this (and keep it that way!)

Groby Community College is appealing for volunteers with an interest in gardening and some spare time on their hands to help restore our allotment and

help towards the ongoing maintenance. Unfortunately our students haven’t had enough time to spend in the allotment over the last year and

therefore it has become overgrown. Once restored students will be able to grow flowers, vegetables, herbs and fruit, and also plan a wildlife area. We do have the necessary tools, a large greenhouse and

plenty of storage, and any volunteers would be welcome to share in the produce.If you would like to volunteer please contact Mrs Karen Shephard in the first instance

Tel: 0116 2879921 or Email: [email protected]

Best Ever Christmas Raffle For LOROSFoLLoWInG a year when, due to the poor summer weather, some events had to be cancelled, staff at LoRoS (The Leicestershire and Rutland Hospice) on Groby Road, Leicester are celebrating the success of their best ever Christmas raffle.Supporters were invited to buy tickets

with a chance of winning one of 8 prizes including a £500 holiday voucher sponsored by Millington Travel and a first prize choice of £10,000 cash or a brand new Mini First, supported by Sytner Leicester. The success of the raffle was helped

along by Rothley C of E Primary School. Teacher Sarah Stonehouse died at LOROS and her colleagues and pupils not only launched a fundraising campaign in her memory, raising £3,000 for LOROS, but sold tickets for the raffle before watching as the draw took place during school assembly.LOROS Lottery Manager Liz Singleton

said ‘What a fantastic result! Our Christmas raffle has generated a profit of over £90,000 this year. With people feeling the pinch more than ever, and our running costs continuing to increase, this record breaking total is both encouraging to us and vital in ensuring we are able to continue to deliver excellent care to our patients and their families when they need it most. We’re overwhelmed at the continued support and generosity of our local communities – long may it continue’. The 2013 LOROS Spring Raffle will be

mailed to supporters during March with tickets also available from all LOROS shops or the lottery office on 0116 2318430. The draw will take place in May

following which more lucky winners will be announced.

Events at Glenfield U3A in 2013aS THE new year bounces in, so Glenfield u3a announces its plans for the early part of the year.

At the monthly fourth Thursday meetings there will be:24 January: a talk on “Save the Children, then and now”; 28 February is the aGm (speaker yet to be chosen); 28 March the talk will be “Tax and Toy Boys”. 30 March (Easter weekend) a Craft Fair is planned.

Please put a note in your diaries and watch out for further details.For anybody wishing to experience the benefits of Tai-Chi, there

are a few spaces available at the group classes held on the first and third Mondays of the month.

The computer group is also proving popular – should you wish to join the (short) waiting list to take part in a six-week course, please get in touch

A badminton group is also in the process of being formed. To participate in any of the group activities, it is necessary to join

the U3A at an annual membership of £15.50 (reduced rates for members of other U3A organisation).

••••

Glenfield U3A is an ‘umbrella’ group which meets monthly, but there are about twenty special interests groups available to

members. There is no age, ability, or geographical location restrictions on U3A membership.

Meetings are at 2.00pm on the fourth Thursday of each month, at St Peter’s Church Centre, Glenfield. If you would like to come along and try for yourself, you’ll be made most welcome!

The easy way to get more information is to look on our website www.u3asites.org.uk/glenfield (click on the “Contact” tab and complete the form.)

Alternatively, if you do not have internet access, contact Membership Secretary Janet Fenton on 0751 402 0654, or Chairperson Carol Knill on 0116 291 9464.


I’m passionate about preserving endangered animals. You should taste my panda jam.

Leicestershire Primary Cross Country League

WITH THE third and final race completed martinshaw Primary can once again look back on a successful season. Highlights included the Year 5

Boys who finished as champions in the medium sized school category. Roman Watson-Quilter picked up the individual league trophy with an emphatic hat-trick of wins, closely followed by his brother, Lucca, who can second overall. Alfie O’Keeffe bolstered the team with an excellent run in race two; whilst Leonte continues to go from strength to strength with improved performances in every race to date. The Year 3 Boys narrowly missed

out on the medals, coming fourth overall. Jack Shaw was our leading runner, coming 5th in the County with some very consistent finishes. This team has great potential, and I believe with hard work and commitment they can challenge the very best schools in the County next year. There were committed performances from Jessica Tansley and Lana

Timson in the Year 5 races, and with an extra team member they should be able to collect some well deserved silverware next season. The Cross Country season isn’t over yet! We have regional races at

Bosworth Academy in the New Year and look forward to the highlight of the season: the County Championships, at Launde Abbey in March

Owen Lawrence

PUBLIC NOTICELICENSING ACT 2003

To whom it may concern:

We Ratby Sports ClubDo hereby give notice that we have applied to the Licensing Authority

at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council for a Premises License at Ratby Sports Club, Desford Lane, Ratby, Leicestershire LE6 0LE and known as Ratby Sports Club.

The application is to:-Licence the premises for the sale of alcohol, live music, plays, films,

indoor sporting events, recorded music, performances of dance, between the times of 08.00 and 03.00 and late night refreshments between the times of 23.00 and 03.00.

Any person who lives or are involved in a business in the area of the premises who are likely to be affected by the grant of a licence and wants to make a written representation for or against this application should write to Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, Licensing Service, Florence House, St Marys Road, Hinckley, LE10 1EQ or email [email protected] not later than 7th February 2013 Representations received after this date will not be considered.

Representations may not be made anonymously and must relate to the Four Licensing Objectives – The Prevention of Crime & Disorder, Public Safety, The Prevention of Public Nuisance and The Protection of Children from harm. Relevant representations will be included in a public report to the licensing panel and the applicant.

Stephen JamesRatby Sports Club


Some crocodiles can grow up to 14 feet, but usually they only have four.

Groby Allotments Society NewsFrom John Thornton

a nEW YEaR, great expectations with a clean plot, what will this new gardening year hold for us? Will it be very dry or very wet? Well I can tell you,

it will be as always, both, some crops will do well as last year, others will not, that’s allotment gardening. We certainly have had our share of rain on the plots with water lying in hollows for days on end. A friend was able to pull a complete stick of brussels out of the ground and the hole immediately filled with water. That’s wet. For the first time we have had to close off all traffic to

Ratby Road plots as the vehicles were sinking in and damaging the surface of the roadways. Fortunately most manure had been delivered but all future deliveries will have to be deposited on the car park and barrowed to plots.Rent re-newal is again coming up together with our

AGM, which will as always be at the village hall on 9th of February at 10 am but the hall will be open from 9am. This is mainly a light hearted affair, tea and biscuits and the usual raffle to follow. Members can ask questions from the floor, on the running of both our village sites and the officers will do their best to answer them for you. Raffle prizes will, as in the past, be gratefully received. The raffle is always good for a laugh.There has been the usual turn-round of a small

number of plots, some being divided into two and others becoming vacant, so if you are on the waiting list you may be getting a call from Jamie.Taking on a plot is not a light undertaking, you need

to be committed. It looks easy on the television seeing Monty Don and Alan Tichmarsh doing a quick run round with the hoe and then for the rest of the programme gathering the veg. What you don’t see is the rest of the team preparing the ground for the programme. You never see a sad presenter looking for potatoes that resemble marbles or that haven’t developed at all, and getting less out than have been sown. However that’s show business.However lack of commitment or time can lead to tears when you receive a letter commenting on the condition of

your plot. We have to consider those people on the waiting list. The wet has rotted many late summer direct sown seeds such as broad beans and onion sets. To the experienced

gardener that is to be accepted. You do take a chance sowing direct in the Autumn, better luck if raised in pots first, to a beginner it is a tragedy, as one mature member told me: ‘if this was my first year I would give up’ but he knows that next year it is always going to be better.Seed potatoes are now in the garden centres which should all be good certified stock. We all make different

choices as there are so many new varieties. Remember we only get one window of opportunity a year, so choose well. The plots look sad at this time of the year although many are nicely dug and ready, but give it a few weeks and

they will look a picture, I think more flowers are grown than in the past, a pleasure to see on a walk around on a pleasant spring evening.So if you are one of the lucky ones to be invited to choose a vacant plot you will be very welcome and if you are

new to veg gardening you will get all the advice you need and probably more, which will be conflicting.

Perfect Record For Groby Juniors Under-10sWITH the half way stage of the under 10’s season now reached, Groby Spartans sit 8 points clear at the top of Division one with a perfect record, having won all 7 of their league games so far. Their emphatic margin of

victories has given them a +27 goal difference over their nearest rival and seen them set all kinds of records for the first half of the season.Along with their fantastic form in

the league they are just two more wins away from reaching the final of the County Cup, which will be played at The King Power Stadium in May.Groby face a tricky trip away to

Lutterworth Athletic in the Quarter Finals but will start big favourites despite playing on Lutterworth’s notoriously small pitch.


Auctioneers are proof that white guys could rap if they tried hard enough.

Santa visits MartinshawaS PaRT of martinshaw Primary School Christmas Fair, Santa Claus managed to take time out from his busy Christmas schedule to visit the school.Due to inclement weather

last year it was decided that rather than cancel this annual event, the Fair would open at the end of the School day when parents were picking up their children. This proved so successful that it was run on similar lines this year, thanks to the enthusiastic support and organisational skills of the Martinshaw School Association.The School Council, which

consists of two pupils from each year from 2 to 6, with ages ranging from 7 to 11 years, organised and ran their own stalls, raising money towards new playground equipment.

Owen Lawrence

Zach, Oliver and Benjamin Shearer say ‘Hello’ to Santa

Community Forum NewsTHE nExT Community Forum meeting for markfield, Ratby & Groby will take place on Thursday 7th march 2013, at Stanton under Bardon Youth Club, with an Information and networking session from 6.30pm till 7pm and the main meeting starting at 7.00pm.Suggested items for discussion include;• Community actions• Community Forum Budgets 2013If you have any thoughts, ideas or have any other topics you would

like to discuss please contact nicola Lees directly either by emailing [email protected] or calling 0116 305 7986.aLSo - If you missed out on funding in 2012, you can still get involved!

Leicestershire County Council will be repeating this opportunity for local residents in June 2013. To find out more you can either come along to Markfield, Ratby & Groby

Community Forum on Thursday 7th March 2013 or visit Leicestershire Forums website www.leicestershireforums.org/cfb In the meantime get your thinking caps on!If you do not have access to the internet please call 0116 305 7034 where

a member of the Communities and Places Team will be able to assist.


My wife decided on an underwater birth. The leisure centre manager was furious.

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LETTERAction needed to make A50 safer at Lena DriveIS IT going to take the death of yet another person on the death trap stretch of the a50 around Lena Drive/Wallace Drive before the persons responsible pull their finger out and make the urgent changes that are needed?

As a resident of Lena Drive I am well aware of the numerous serious/fatal accidents past and present and I find it absolutely outrageous that cars and heavy goods vehicles are allowed to travel at 50mph through what is a residential area. During my daily commute along the A50 into the city centre I studied the speed limits and as soon as you enter a residential area the maximum speed limit drops to 40mph and then approaching Blackbird Road and onwards drops to 30mph, so why is this not the same on the stretch of the A50 Markfield road that passes by Lena Drive/ Wallace Drive?

It is absolutely unacceptable that residents and school children including my own have to take their lives in their hands every day walking to and from school alongside this road and then have to use what quite frankly is a death trap of a pedestrian crossing by Lena Drive.

How can it be safe to have cars and heavy goods vehicles approaching a pedestrian crossing at up to 50mph and - as I witness on a daily basis - running straight through the red light. On some occasions my children have had vehicles continuing through even when the green man is showing it is safe to cross.

What good is a speed/red light camera when you have a dead child on the road because some idiot of a motorist decides they are going to run the red light?

Changes need to happen now, the most important one being the reduction in the speed limit to what should be 30mph on the inbound and outbound stretches of the A50 around the Lena Drive/Wallace Drive residential area and pedestrian crossing. Surely this has got to be a low cost option as it only requires changes to signage and adjustments to speed cameras. It is also evident from a recent accident - in which thankfully no one was killed - that the placement of crash barriers on the corner by the Quinto crane depot is needed urgently.

To further highlight how serious an accident blackspot this stretch of road is - within literally days of the recent serious accident where a van overturned after leaving the road, i witnessed a vehicle collision on the opposite side of the road near the phone box!

Get it sorted now before this road claims another life and a family is left grieving over the loss of a loved one.

S.Carter

1�Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-January 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Bikini waxing: Is it just a rip-off?

UNWANTED PRESENTS OR SALE PURCHASES?“aFTER the festive season, people may be contemplating how they will get rid of unwanted presents or dispose of household furniture etc. in order to accommodate new purchases made in the sales. age uK is the answer!” says Peter Ralphs of the local age uK.The financial situation is affecting

stocks of clothes, books and furniture in Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland’s 23 shops upon which the charity so heavily relies, particularly now with so much uncertainty surrounding central funding for many of their services to needy or vulnerable local older people. “It’s a big problem. On the one

hand, more people are saving money in these difficult times by buying the high quality goods which we sell, whilst on the other, traditional donors are apparently more inclined to ‘make do and mend’ rather than donate saleable items to our charity’s shops. If the situation continues, this will directly affect the level of services which we are able to provide in the future,” Peter went on to say.Items can be delivered to

any of the charity’s shops – for convenient locations, ring 0116 2992233 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/leics/ - whilst large items such as furniture can be collected by calling 0116 2781208.If supporters prefer to give a cash

donation (say £3), simply text the message “AUKL11 £3” to 70070.

Letter from Uncle Eustace

on why rural church-goers like to freeze in churchThe RectorySt. James the Least of All

my dear nephew DarrenWInTER certainly exposes the difference between those of you who live in cities and us rural folk. While you bask in your centrally heated flat, with every modern convenience that could be imagined and complain about the half an inch of slush that makes your life so inconvenient, we country folk wear overcoats in our houses, open all doors and windows to let the heat in and battle through snow drifts, measured in feet, to get the morning paper.Colonel Wainwright has acquired a new toy: a snow blower, of sufficient power that I believe it could clear the Antarctic. He kindly volunteered to clear the paths around the church. Working outwards from the church door, the path to the church soon became snow free. Unfortunately, he only realised when his job was complete that the blown snow then formed a ten foot drift under the lych gate. We now have to climb over the churchyard wall and negotiate buried gravestones before we can reach his pristine paths.Miss Margison, ever helpful in the worst sense of the word, decided to unfreeze the pipes in the church hall. A blow torch was not the ideal solution, although the resulting burst did make some rather attractive ice sculptures round the kitchen equipment. The village badminton team that uses the hall has now temporarily changed sport to ice hockey.Inevitably, congregations have soared. There is nothing like adversity for making people want to prove they have the moral fibre to overcome it. Much satisfaction seems to be obtained on discovering who has not dared venture out, which is taken as judgement on their strength of character. The Prentices upstaged most people by arriving on a sleigh. Mr Prentice was warmly wrapped in a travelling rug, while his wife pulled it. As her husband explained, he couldn’t possibly let the pony work in such conditions.What I momentarily thought was applause during my sermon was merely people keeping their hands warm and the hymns were drowned out by the stamping of feet. Our organist complained that the cold made his fingers so numb that he couldn’t play properly – although I didn’t notice that things were much different from normal.No, my dear nephew, you continue to fret about your church heating dropping to temperate from tropical and a few flakes of wet snow obliging you to close your car park for health and safety reasons. We shall continue to triumph heroically over adversity and return home after Mattins, knowing we have proved our Christian commitment in being utterly uncomfortable.Your loving uncle,

Eustace

Turn off that light!BRITISH children are the worst in Europe for switching off lights and saving electricity, even though they know the most about climate change.The National Curriculum includes

a module on climate change, and how carbon emissions from burning fossil fuels are contributing to global warming. Yet children in Britain still waste energy by leaving the television on standby and enjoying ‘energy-guzzling’ gadgets such as PlayStations and iPods. They admit that they regularly throw away food and buy unnecessary clothes. The study was carried out by the Energy Saving Trust.

Broadband BriefingLEICESTERSHIRE County Council, working with a range of partners, including District Councils, is seeking to improve broadband speeds across Leicestershire.A briefing session has been

organised to help communities and businesses get up to speed on the project. This will be held on;11th February 2013 - 6.30-

8.00pm (refreshments available from 6.00pm) at Sparkenhoe Committee Room, Leicestershire County CouncilThis event is open to community

broadband groups, Parish Councils and local businesses.If you wish to attend please

contact Kate Harvey (0116 305 7016) [email protected] provide the following

information: Name; Village or Parish Council represented; Business name (if relevant); Email address.The deadline for registration is the

25th January 2013.If you have any specific queries

regarding broadband please contact Matthew Kempson on (0116 305 6179) or email: [email protected],

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-January 2013 • Tel: 01530 2440691�

Sometimes a woman’s best beauty aid is a short-sighted man.

Groby WI News EVERYonE arrived at the December meeting with large bags of greenery hoping to produce a Christmas arrangement on a plate. In addition, Lisa Clarridge, who had tutored us previously in the

art, brought large amounts of very colourful cuttings. Apparently, these were given to her by a gentleman who had been tackling a massive pruning operation in his garden; a big bonus for our members. Lisa kindly distributed oasis, with tape to fix this onto our plates. This was exam time. Had we really taken on board her previous demonstration? We all feverishly got to work, Lisa refreshing our memories with a few basic instructions. The tables soon became strewn with candles, seasonal cuttings of every description, baubles, glitter, in fact anything to enhance the masterpiece we hoped to create. We had paid attention to her teaching; some of the arrangements produced were eye-catching. I had no hope myself of even completing the job in hand, flower arranging is not my forte. Amazingly, the end product was quite presentable. It now stands in my porch, giving me a glow of pride every time I pass by. A most enjoyable evening, thanks to Lisa and her two helpers who volunteered their services free as Lisa had enjoyed herself so much when giving us October’s professional demonstration. After all the concentration the coffee and mince pies served were most welcome.Like the Scouts, we of the WI are always prepared, well in theory that

is. Our 2013 programme has, hopefully, something to please all. We try to have a charity speaker each year so we begin in January with the aBF The Soldiers Charity. From then on we have talks covering a wide variety from Canine Partners, (hopefully I will learn where I am going wrong with my two mutts), a nursery (of the flowering kind), a librarian from Royal Ascot, a fun yoga leader and someone introducing us to herbs and hedgehogs (two different evenings I hasten to say). Apart from the aforementioned, in June we celebrate 60 years as an Institute which will be a very posh nosh up, best frocks etc. There are also a couple of just social evenings where anything can happen, all very friendly though. Each month we have a local walk and an occasional walk, usually in

South Derbyshire. Hopefully walking will help with the weight I have put on (along perhaps with others) although I think it will take a 26 mile marathon to make a difference to me. As for our trips there is something every month. Several theatre visits, a lunch club, skittles matches, a garden party and our looked forward to Weekend Away where members go on mass and spend an overnight stay at, as yet secret, destination. This always turns out to be a brilliant 48 hours thanks to our own Tour Organiser who works wonders. I am starting to put things in the freezer now just so “Him Indoors” doesn’t starve, it’s the dogs that worry me more.Our February meeting is the first of our Social Evenings, nothing as yet

organised but you can bet there will be a laugh in store. So if you fancy coming along and joining us, we are at the Village Hall (opposite the Post Office, alongside the Library) on every third Thursday in the month starting at 7.30pm. So see you on Thursday 21st February.

Evelyn and Margaret

The full 2013 Groby WI programme is on page 11.

Call MARTIN on 01530 230745 or 07925 325634

Martinshaw Choir sings with the Greys of Groby

In WHaT is becoming an annual event, martinshaw school choir visited the Greys of Groby at the Groby Community Centre, Forest Rise.Member Violet atkins said, “We really look forward every year to the

Choirs visit. The happy, smiling faces really help to make our Christmas.”The Choir is made up of students from the ages of 7 to 11 years from

years 2 to 6 under the direction of mrs Steph ong, whose son Davey is a very talented soloist and assisted on this occasion by teacher Helen Brown whose children also sing with them.The repertoire was made up of a number of very up beat songs, including,

‘Hey, Father Christmas’, ‘ Jingle Bells ‘, ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’, etc., all requiring movement and energetic action. Ideally suited, you would think, for a more senior audience who joined in enthusiastically when the children went out among them.Both pupils and members had a great time.

Owen Lawrence

Our families and work drive us to drinkTWo THIRDS of us admit that we drink regularly to unwind - blaming our work, financial worries, and even our families for stressing us out in the first place. A survey by Drinkaware, the charity, has found that four out of ten women

and a third of men admit to drinking more than the Government’s daily unit guidelines, which are three to four units for men and two to three units for women.Drinkaware cautions: “Alcohol can be a false friend, and can actually add

to your long term problems. Not only is it expensive, but alcohol can cause weight gain and increase the risk of cancer, heart and liver disease. Make a point of having days off from drinking so that your body does not develop a tolerance to alcohol.”


Elizabeth Woodville News

Creative Competition Win!

WELL DonE to Harleen Thandi who won first place in the Thomson Local competition to design a front cover for their area directory, inspired by locations in Leicestershire. Pupils in Year 3 and Year 5 took

part and demonstrated their knowledge and artistic skills alongside 400 entries from schools across the county. Harleen won £1000 of art equipment vouchers for the school as well as £175 for herself. We will be spending this to enhance our art curriculum with materials which will benefit all pupils. This is a wonderful achievement for Harleen and the school, which reflects

our focus on art and creativity. We are all extremely proud of what Harleen has produced. The design (pictured above) demonstrates her pride and knowledge of life in Leicestershire. Well done also to Matthew Hollingworth (Year 5) who was awarded a runner up spot and £25 of art vouchers. Thank you also to Miss Borrill for organising the event in school.

Cross Country Success!WELL DonE to all the members of our Cross Country Team who ran so superbly this term during the three meetings at Prestwold Hall. I am pleased to inform

you that Elizabeth Woodville won the Team Trophy for first place in the Year 5 Girls and Year 3 Boys category, a fantastic achievement!

Congratulations also to our individual winners! Year 3 Boys: 3rd James Hollingsworth, 5th Harry Gamble

Year 3 Girls: 1st Mackenzie SmithYear 4 Girls: 4th Lilly McGlinchey

Year 5 Girls: 1st Rachel Nealon, 4th Karendeep Thandi

My mates said I was tight-fisted, so I bought them a beer. It turns out they wanted one each.

Blockbuster Films Coming in 2013 ...OBLIVIONon a spectacular future Earth that has evolved beyond recognition, one man’s confrontation with the past will lead him on a journey of redemption and discovery as he battles to save mankind. Jack Harper (Tom Cruise) is one of the last few drone repairmen stationed

on Earth. (Watch the trailer on YouTube)


I can hear music coming from my printer. I think the paper’s jamming again.

National Trust Leicester Association NEWSTHE naTIonaL Trust has completed the acquisition of Stoneywell, the arts & Crafts cottage at ulverscroft which includes 4 acres of garden and 11 acres of SSSI woodland. However the appeal to raise finance for the purchase and repair of the property has not yet reached its target of £1.48 million and is therefore ongoing.Repair, conservation and general work will commence very shortly to

enable the property to be opened to the public early in 2014.Over the next 9 months a number of volunteers are required on the

Stoneywell project to perform various tasks concerned with the upkeep of the building and grounds and in preparing it for the public opening. If you would like to get involved please call 0844 8001895 for more information.The staff at Woolsthorpe Manor, the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton, had

a very pleasant surprise recently when a visitor handed them 2 volumes of the first edition in English of “Newton’s Principia” dated 1729. The original edition published in 1687 was in Latin. As the books are 284 years old the do require some conservation work and an appeal has been launched to enable the work to be carried out before they are put on display.

The Workhouse (PICTURED ABOVE), a NT property in Southwell, has been used by “Wall to Wall” media to make a two-part documentary for television entitled “The Workhouse”. The programme will look at the emotional human history of workhouses – another programme to look out for.The National Trust Leicester Association has an afternoon meeting on

Wednesday 23rd January at St Guthlac’s Memorial Hall, Holbrook Road, Leicester at 2.30pm. Eila Baugh will present a talk on My Work as a Paramedic.There will be an evening meeting on Tuesday 12th February when

Stewart Alcock, NT General Manager, will present an illustrated Update on Calke Abbey and Gardens. The meeting will be held at Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone West at 7.30pm.Admission to both meetings is NTLA members £2.50 and visitors £4.00

including refreshments.For more information on the NT Leicester Association and its Talks

Service call 0116 2229133.

Alan Tyler, Chairman

Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Fri Jan 18th: JuST JaCob -Excellent Male Soloist Sat Jan 19th: NiGhTShifT - Very Good Male Duo Sun Jan 20th: Super Sunday’50’ Bingo And Quiz Fri Jan 25th baz ouT of hELL - Meatloaf & Cher Tribute Sat Jan 26th: SouL PRovidERS - Quality Duo Sun Jan 27th Super Sunday ‘50’ Bing And Quiz Fri Feb 1st: ThE SySTEm - Excellent Band Sat Feb 2nd: EGo - Brilliant Duo Sun Feb 3rd Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Fri Feb 8th: Tba Sat Feb 9th: LEE LaRd (Peter Kay Tribute) & NaTaLiE NiGhTiNGaLE Sun Feb 10th Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Fri Feb 15th: LEiGhToN moRRELL - Very Good Solo Artist Sat Feb 16th: ShauN Eb - Quality Solo Singer Sun Feb 17th Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz

The bricklayer’s arms 213 main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays We now have SKY and ESPN Try our new menus! Now taking bookings for Valentine’s Day! www.bricklayersarms.net

The Club, Thornton main Street. T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members A big thank you from the club to everyone for supporting us. We Also Have Bingo Every Tuesday Evening All Welcome. www.myspace.com/thorntonclub

The field head hotel markfield Lane, markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tribute Nights/£2 Entry after 7pm. Fri 25th Jan: ‘moTowN & SouL’ Fri 8th Feb: ‘TRibuTE To ThE 80s’ See ad on page 26.

The Queen’s head ashby Road, markfield. T: 01530 242 496 ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN Sat 23rd Feb: ‘ThE ThREETLES’ also landlady Jan’s 15 Year Celebration!

bagworth working men’s Club, Station Road, bagworth. Tel. 01530 230205 New members welcome. Live entertainment – last Saturday of the month Andy’s Charity Quiz £1.50 each - last Friday of the month Sequence dances Sunday Nights. £1.00 admission 8 pm Tea Dance Wednesday afternoon 2 – 4 pm. £1 admission. iT’S TimE To RENEw youR mEmbERShiP! Please do so as soon as possible. winter indoor Car boot - 1st Sunday of every month - 10am till 2pm - Tables £5 to book. ASK ABOUT OUR FREE ROOM HIRE FOR THOSE SPECIAL FAMILY OCCASIONS.

The Coach & horses Leicester Road, field head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:- Sats 19th January and 2nd February with ‘KiNG of ThE Road’.

The bulls head forest Road, markfield T: 01530 242541 Garden & Pub Games etc. Sat 26th Jan: ThE dEL ShaRRoNS Sat 16th Feb: GEE ‘N’ uS

Blockbuster Films Coming in 2013 ...AFTER EARTHonE THouSanD years after cataclysmic events forced humanity’s escape from Earth, nova Prime has become mankind’s new home. Legendary General Cypher Raige returns from an extended tour of duty to

his estranged family, ready to be a father to his 13-year-old son, Kitai. When an asteroid storm damages Cypher and Kitai’s craft, they crash-land

on a now unfamiliar and dangerous Earth. As his father lies dying in the cockpit, Kitai must trek across the hostile terrain to recover their rescue beacon. His whole life, Kitai has wanted nothing more than to be a soldier like his father. Today, he gets his chance. (Watch the trailer on YouTube)


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For further information please see websites and church magazines

St. Philip and St. James www.bradgateteam.org.uk

Revd. Louise Corke 231 3090

United Reformed Church www.grobyurc.com

Revd Sue McKenzie 232 1733 Catch meets for play, craft, story & chat for pre-school children with a parent or carer. Every Friday in term time, 9.30-11.30am, at the URC.

Fair Cuppa: an opportunity to meet with friends at the village hall. Every Thursday, 10.30-12.00

Urban Saints is held during term time, at the URC chapel: games, friends, crafts and a Christian basis to discussions. - for 5’s to 14’s on Mon evenings at 3.45pm, 6.30pm or 7.45pm - for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm - for 15-18’s o Fri at 7.30pm More details on the church websites More details on the church websites or check with Louise Corke 0116 231 3090


I’ve been dating a homeless woman recently, and it’s getting serious. She’s asked me to move out with her.

Local slimmer loses 3 stones in 33 weeks!

Susan Oliff of Groby tells her story ...

I KnEW I was overweight, but reality hit home when I brought a dress, and it was too tight around my middle and across my bust, I felt very down and unhappy. But the next day a flyer came through my letterbox, after reading the flyer I decided to join a local slimming group.After being given

details of the diet, I thought ‘How am I going to lose weight doing this diet?’Group leader

Hazel’s advice was to keep the club’s Food Optimising book with you and keep reading it, so that is what I did, I bought an Extra Easy Recipe Book, with lots of great recipes and ideas.So 33 weeks later and 3 stone lighter,

I have dropped three dress sizes, and I feel great! And my husband says the “snoring” has stopped as well. I feel more confident in myself especially when I go shopping for clothes and I am choosing things that I would have never looked at when I was overweight.I love food and I always look

forward to my meals. A couple of my favourites are Spagetti Bolognaise, and chips, fish and mushy peas. I enjoy cooking and I am always trying the recipes from the club’s magazine, which is available in group each month. I have been at “target” weight now

for 2 years, and I still go to group each week. I am now part of the group’s social team and I love it! I feel like a completely different person, when I look in the mirror now I see ME! Joining a slimming club was one of the best things that I have done and I am so glad that the flyer through my letter box.Even though I have been at “target” weight for 2 years the group

nominated me for “Miss Slinky” 2012 and to my surprise I won. I could not believe it, I was so happy it made my night and the evening was extra special because Hazel organised that Miss Leicester announced the winner and presented me with my award and we had photos taken together.

Miss Leicester, Lena Walker, Target Member, Susan Oliff from Groby and Group Leader Hazel Hickson.

Susan Oliff, pictured before joining the group

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My nan died on her 92nd birthday. It was really sad. We were only halfway through giving her the bumps at the time.

Groby Gardening Society News

Millennium Green NewsTHE LaST fund-raising event of 2012 was the Table Top Sale on november 24th. This was very well supported and we raised £290 for our funds. A big ‘thank-you’ to everyone who contributed to the success of the morning by having a stall, contributing items for sale to the Millennium Green, providing refreshments and helping to put up and take down the tables. This money will be well-used in 2013 as we have received a Capital Grant from the Community Action Partnership, on behalf of Blaby District Council, to be spent on repairs to the path and entrance area and to try and alleviate the flooding that happens at the narrow end of the Green. The Trust has to match the £2,600 we will receive from the Partnership for this work which we hope to arrange to start as soon as possible.Our annual Carols on the Green took place on the 22nd December after a

day of continuous rain. About 20 ‘hardy’ singers turned up and we tried our best to drive away the rain with joyful sounds. Thanks to those who came.It has been a busy 2012 and we hope that you will continue to support

and use the Millennium Green in 2013. In February we will be holding our AGM in Glenfield to plan for the next 12 months. All local residents, and particularly users of the Green, are invited to come along to let us have ideas. Full details will be put on the notice board on the Green and throughout the area.

Christine Tordoff

Our December meeting – Our Christmas party mealWe were delighted to welcome

Steve Barfield to our Christmas meeting. Steve was our guest speaker and he had agreed to give us a talk entitled “A Fireman’s Tale”. After initial service in the R.A.F., Steve joined the Leicestershire Fire Service which he served for the rest of his working life. He brought numerous artefacts and memorobilia from his many years of service and entertained an audience of well over fifty members. Whilst outlining his history in the Fire Service, Steve revealed some of the darker, very poignant, aspects of a fireman’s experiences which in his case included the Kegworth air disaster of the late eighties and several traumatic local fires. He lightened the evening by also including some of the many lighter and humerous aspects of his job. On one occasion, when out on an emergency call in his fire engine, he was forced to very slowly follow a private car. Despite the very loud emergency sirens, this car would not hurry or let the engine pass. One can imagine the rather ripe and insensitive language from the crew being directed at the driver when they did eventually manage to pass. All could empathise with his utter embarrassment as he saw that the very careful car driver was a man of the cloth! During the evening, Steve relished the chance to respond to numerous questions thrown at him by the audience. What did shine through all of Steve’s stories was his dedication, his love of the job and the cameraderie that existed between his colleagues and friends.As if this wasn’t enough, members

sat listening whilst within eyesight was a wonderful array of party food brought in by all. Two long tables groaned under the burden of sandwiches, mince pies, quiches, cheese/pineapple sticks, slices of turkey and ham, pork pies, cheese sticks, tomatoes, pickles and relishes, gateaux, numerous trifles, fresh fruit salad and many other treats such as after-eight-mints, tea and coffee.Molly, as usual, had arranged

a bumper raffle, in which all the prizes were donated by members, and raised over £50 for our two charities of 2012; Childline and Help the Heroes. Whether the last prize, a festive candle + a night out with Molly, will be completely taken up, remains to be seen!

A Kind DonationMany thanks go to Mr Rowbottom

of Forest Rise for his donation of numerous items of gardening equipment and other useful D.I.Y. tools. These are to be found in The Shed at the Ratby Road allotment site and Jane Marston is the person to see if you think you may have a use for any of these tools.

Outings for 2013 It is hoped to have details about

our trips and outings for 2013 at the A.G.M. in January, but already we have in place trip an evening trip to a Leicestershire private garden, a one day trip during June and a two day (overnight stay) outing during July. Many members will have enjoyed several of the overnight stays we have experienced, not least because of the quality of the hotels we have used. It is believed that our hotel for 2013 will be at least as good as any we have used in the past.

Eternal optimistsEven after some very testing

weather in 2012, gardeners, whether private or allotment holders, are eternal optimists. They always believe next year’s weather will be better, or the next crop will be heavier or pests will be fewer. Traditionally, the beginning of a new year is when these wishes and hopes crystallise as catalogues are broused and plans laid. If you are not a Groby Gardening Society member, perhaps this is the time to consider becoming one. As well as being part of a sociable group of like-minded people, a very modest subscription gives you access to twelve monthly meetings, free tea/coffee and biscuits at these and access to all our outings. You could always come along and see what we do, without any sort of commitment at all. You would be very welcome.

Forth coming eventsJanuary 10th - The A.G.M.February 14th - “A Cottage

Garden” by Graham Jackson March 14th - “Weeds and Aliens”

by Eric Webster

Our monthly meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month, usually in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill. Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Alvar Johnson. (Tel. No. 01162877870) or E mail [email protected]

Alvar Johnson


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Young Person Awards Deadline: 31st Jan 2013

You STILL have time to submit your nominations for the prestigious Lord-Lieutenant’s Young Person of the Year awards 2013.The award is open to young people aged 13-19 (as at 31st January 2013)

living in Leicester or Leicestershire. The young person can be nominated by other young people, their school, parent/carer or any other agency.Now is the time to recognise young people’s exceptional work and

achievements by nominating them for one of the following categories:

Young BraveheartTo be given to an individual who has:

overcome personal barriers to achieve success,made a stand against bullying, racism etc,demonstrated a life-saving act of bravery

Young VolunteerTo be given to an individual who has:

enhanced their local community or environmentcared for a neighbour or relative in needhelped to run a community or sports based club or society

Young VoiceTo be given to an individual who has:

represented young people in decision making processesused social or web based media to support young people

Young ScientistTo be given to an individual who has:

demonstrated a real passion for the sciencesengineered a mechanical or electrical solution to a problemused ICT to create an innovative application or graphic based program

Young ArtistTo be given to a young person who has demonstrated skill, innovation, and expression in:

visual artsexpressive artsliteraturemusic

To find out more about the 2013 awards and to nominate a young person visit: www.leics.gov.uk/llawards where you can complete an online e-form or download a nomination form.You can also request a nomination form by email from the [email protected] or call 0116 305 6053.

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Love is all you need... set your heart on secret good turnsVaLEnTInE’S DaY is coming. It’s the traditional day for sending cards, chocolates and flowers to our sweethearts (real – and hoped for!). Traditionally, such tokens of affection are anonymous. Hand-writing is disguised, or a different post office is used.Sending a message of love,

unannounced, is a good principle for living – even if you don’t happen to have a sweetheart. Simple acts of anonymous kindness, or kindness given in an understated way, can have a profound effect upon another person. Jesus approved of anonymous good works: ‘When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing’ (Mt 6:3). The needy are not just the materially poor, but everyone who is in need of something, perhaps some kindness that only you can give them at that moment in time.So this Valentine’s Day, don’t

worry if you haven’t got a current sweetheart of your own to love. Show your love, through an act of unannounced kindness, to someone else. Think of your neighbours, your friends, your church.... who would benefit from some simple compassion and support this month?

If you enjoy reading the

Spotlight, please pass it on to a

friend or relative after you’ve

finished with it. Thanks!


I have no problem with genetically modified food. I had a lovely leg of salmon the other day.

Cautious optimism over the Klondyke?Norman Griffiths hears that compulsory purchase may be a step closerafter years of anger and frustration over the land known as the Klondyke on newtown Linford Lane members of Groby Parish Council have been told that there is hope that the calls for the land to be compulsorily purchased will be acted upon. It is thought, however, that it could be a complicated and protracted process which will need a Borough Council resolution once everything has been sorted out.

In planning terms the approved use of the land is for allotments, which is believed to date back to the days when the quarry workers grew vegetables for their families. But over the years there have been other activities, apparently without the appropriate planning consent for a change of use. When planning applications have been made they

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have been unsuccessful, and it is now six years since an appeal against the refusal of a planning application for a residential caravan site was rejected by the Inspector. He didn’t think it was acceptable for residents to live so close to a quarry, but also took into account other issues.

Firstly, in his view, the clearance of much of the mature vegetation on the site and the laying of hard standings for caravans seriously damaged the appearance and integrity of this part of the wooded area. He concluded that the site seriously harmed the character and appearance of the area.

Secondly, he felt the site would have an adverse impact on highway safety. He felt that the problems could only get worse when the planning permission for the future working of Groby Quarry is implemented as this will considerably increase the amount of traffic passing the site entrance.

Thirdly, the implications for the adjoining Groby Quarry as a result of its effects on occupants of the site in terms of noise, vibration and safety. The Inspector reported that Groby, Bradgate and Lawnwood quarries provide a valuable 90 million tonne reserve of igneous rock, some 20% of the permitted reserves in Leicestershire and the East Midlands. The need to safeguard economically important mineral deposits such as these is recognised nationally and regionally. The site is all within 200 metres and at its closest point is only 10-12 metres from the edge of the quarry face. The Inspector concluded that it was unacceptable for residents of the site to be exposed to the noise, vibration and safety issues which would follow from living so close to the quarry.

Residents hoped that this would resolve the problem but it has turned out to be like an erratic volcano with no-one knowing when the next eruption would come. Action plans, monitoring, planning applications, a High Court injunction and more have followed.

The most recent activity reported in the last few months - fly tipping of lorryloads of unknown material and an old car shell – has resulted in renewed calls for action, and although there is cause for cautious optimism all the Borough Council will say at the moment is that “the council is exploring a number of possible options in a bid to address the ongoing planning and environmental nuisance issues at the Klondyke site. One possible option currently being explored is the purchase of the land by the council. However, it is early days and no decision has yet been made as to the anticipated effectiveness or feasibility of that option. Whatever option is selected, the council will ensure that all interested parties – including residents, councillors and land owners – are involved and consulted. The council’s aim is to improve the situation for the benefit of all concerned.”

Household chores done by men (and redone by women)

IF You are falling in love this month, do bear the following in mind: relationships that begin with romance can end in rows over who does the household chores.

Yet even when a man is happy to help around the house, it seems that the struggle is not over. For a recent survey has found that women spend up to three hours a week redoing household chores that their partner has not done properly.

The laundry, vacuuming, washing up, making of beds and rearranging of sofa cushions are the main tasks which men attempt – but their efforts often fail to meet their partner’s standards.

It seems that when men do the laundry, many forget to separate dark colours from light. They hang wet clothes too close together to dry. When men vacuum, many tackle only the middle of the room, leaving dust around the edges. When men do the washing up, many don’t bother to wipe down counters. When men make beds or rearrange cushions, they assume that a casual shake is all that is required.

Yet despite the findings of this research by Sainsburys, women still love their men, and admit that their partners do really try to do things right. Four in ten households even share the chores evenly. Love will find a way.

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I went to the park today and played frisbee with my dog, but it wasn’t much fun. I think I need a flatter dog.

Win a Main Course for Two plus a Bottle of House Wine

at the Fieldhead Hotel!

Celebrity Big Brother WoRDSEaRCHFind the 12 CELEBRITY BIG BRoTHER HouSEmaTES in this month’s

Wordsearch puzzle and you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty prize of:

a main Course for Two, plus a Bottle of House Wine at The FieldHead Hotel.To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through -

the 12 Housemates of the current series of Celebrity Big Brother. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!).

Send your entry to: BIG BROTHER, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Wednesday 6th February 2013.

Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s trilby will win the Meal for Two at The Field Head Hotel. Good luck!

Here are the 12 HOUSEMATES you have to find:CLAIRE RICHARDS • FRANKIE DETTORI • GILLIAN TAYLFORTH

HEIDI MONTAG • SPENCER PRATT • LACEY BANGHARDPAULA HAMILTON • RAZOR RUDDOCK • RYAN MOLONEY

RYLAN CLARK • SAM ROBERTSON • TRICIA PENROSE

Name: .................................................................................................

Address: ................................................................................................

.................................................................Postcode: .............................

Last Month’s Wordsearch WinnerThe winner of last issue’s Wordsearch competition was: mR J RaTCLIFFE

of Meadow Way, Groby. You win a Main Course for Two plus a Bottle of House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel.

Congratulations! Your prize will be with you soon.

L M T O K R D N E H K R O S P H K A W T A R X C F C Y P D R A T C X C H A O A H T A W R S N U R O N E E K R U L N O A S O F L O D L O U Y T P M C H W S M V A F D L I R S B O R C N T R G G H L U D B I L L A I E R A P Z A A Y R D J I O G R N E C W L Y M M A R K Y N N E Q B G K N T Y X I T O I E H R O O L D H W E G R L N Z Y O I S R Q M D C A D P G T A A N A F M D H M Q Q B R M S O I R L M A O B M X E W O L D I N L C E S O R N E P A I C I R T B L F R A N K I E D E T T O R I C I X K A H E I D I M O N T A G Z G

CLAIRERICHARDSFRANKIEDETTORIGILLIANTAYLFORTHHEIDIMONTAGLACEYBANGHARDPAULAHAMILTONRAZORRUDDOCKRYANMOLONEYRYLANCLARKSAMROBERTSONSPENCERPRATTTRICIAPENROSE

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1 of 1 14/01/2013 09:33

Bradgate Lions Club NewsWHaT a successful Christmas Period we have enjoyed. Starting with bucket collections at Sainsbury’s, Fosse Park and Budgens in Groby, on the first and eighth December respectively, where collectively we raised £409.00. During the three weeks in December leading up to Christmas we have

also been out and about with our ‘Santa Float’. Firstly on two nights during week commencing 3rd. Dec: when we were

in Anstey with the Woolden Hill PTA & Latimer Street Infants School PTA. Then during the w/c.10th. we were out twice collecting in Ratby, assisting the Girls & Lads Brigade there with their fundraising, and lastly on the 17th. & the 19th. December we were pounding the streets of Kirby Muxloe with the local Scouts group. Altogether £1162.78 was raised; this was shared between the local groups and Bradgate Lions. We also have had 14 Christmas Prize Draw Baskets in various hostelries

in the district and these have raised approximately £1200.00 for our charity account, which along with other monies raised during the current year will be allocated out to various causes, and donated in May 2013. Besides fund raising we have also representing ‘Santa’ at Martinshaw

Infants School, Groby, Newtown Linford Pre-school, and also visiting some of the wards at Glenfield Hospital with the Groby Church Choir, entertaining with carols and giving out cards and gifts to the patients. Bradgate Lions Club represents an area stretching from Desford and Leics

Forest East to the south, as far as Anstey and Newtown Linford to the North, and from Glenfield in the East to Markfield in the West, which is quite a large area to be covered by our club, and so we are always looking for new members to help us cover the district. The club holds a business meeting at Forest Hills Golf Club in Botcheston

on the 2nd. Thursday of each month starting at 7.00PM. And a social meeting at various venues on the 4th. Thursday, interested parties are invited to any of these meetings, to find out what we are all about, and to meet the members of our club. To find out further details just give Roger a call on 01530 242912 who

would be pleased to hear from you, and happy to assist.

Lion Roger Gamble

2�Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-January 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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HOTPOINTWMEF742PWashing Machine


Time Delay Quick Wash A++AB Rated

BOSCHSMS58T02GBDishwasher

14 Place Settings 5 Programmes Time Delay Noise Level 48dbA+AA Rated

ZANUSSIZWG1120MWashing Machine


AAB Rated Time DelayFast Wash

BOSCHWAB28061GBWashing Machine

1400rpm Spin Speed5.5Kg Load Capacity

29min Quick Wash 15 ProgrammesA+AB Rated

ZANUSSIZDC37200WCondenser Dryer

Reverse Action7kg Load Capacity

C Rated3 Programmes

WINTER SALE NOW ON6 STADON ROAD ANSTEY LE7 7AY - TEL: 0116 2362395 - [email protected]

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Fitted Kitchens

8 BRADGATE ROAD, ANSTEY, LEICESTER, LE7 7AA

Jan 2013 Spotlight

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Transcript of Jan 2013 Spotlight