Ashby Life March 13

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk2

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts 3

44

this issue 84

Ashby Life

Editor

Liz Roberts

Telephone

01530 417739

Email enquiries

Advertising/Accounts

[email protected]/What’s On

[email protected]

Web

www.ashbylife.co.uk

Facebook

www.facebook.com/ashbylife

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@AshbyLife

Address

16 Moira RoadAshby de la ZouchLE65 2GA

Front Cover Image by

Rebecca SoanesPhotography

Ashby Life is an independentpublication. No part of thispublication may be reproducedwithout the prior permission ofthe editor. The use of thismagazine for canvassing ordirect marketing is strictlyprohibited.

Information is included onthe What’s On andCommunity Board pagessubject to space beingavailable. Whilst every carehas been taken toensure that the data inthis publication is accurate,Ashby Life cannot be heldresponsible for any errors oromissions or endorse com-panies, products or servicesappearing in this magazine.

If you would like to advertise in Ashby LifeIt’s a fantastic way to target potential customers and great value for money

See our website or call Liz on 01530 417739 for detailsNext issue is April 2013 and deadline for copy is Friday 8th March

Please note advertising space is limited, pre-booking is recommended

It’s all happening… During the last month we’ve

launched some fabulous new updates to our website. Now you

can find special discount offers from local businesses at

www.ashbylife.co.uk along with our great business directory.

There is also a new, extended, Where to Go section with loads of

trips out and events, plus a special Where to Eat guide – see page

22 to find out more. Along with that we’ve had the announcement of the

proposed HS2 route running so close to Ashby. There’s a brief outline in our

Spotlight article on page 6 and the Town Council newsletter on page 62 also

contains information. See the Community Board too for the date of the

Community Forum meeting in March when

this is among the items for discussion. Liz RobertsContents

06 Spotlight On...

10 It’s Local

14 A Walk in the Forest

18 Christadelphian Church

22 Open 4 Business

30 Out to Lunch

34 Puzzle Page

38 On the Beat

42 Community Board

46 Somewhere in the Forest

50 Storytime

54 Useful Numbers

58 Seasonal Recipes

62 Ashby Town Council

66 Money Matters

70 Book Reviews

74 What’s On

80 Ashby Museum News

84 Just 4 Fun

88 Back Chat

92 In Your Garden

96 Ashby Health Centre

98 Young Ashby

100 Puzzle Answers

102 Business Directory

06

22

10

80

30

50

92

58

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk


High Speed Rail (HS2)and Ashby


spotlight on...

For those whoare not familiarwith HS2, itrefers to the high-speed rail line which is intendedto run from a proposed junction at Water Orton to astation at Toton near Long Eaton. The route followsthe A42 through Leicestershire, running pastMeasham, between Ashby and Packington, and thentowards and underneath East Midlands Airport.

We believe that the line will run mostly in cuttings as

it passes Ashby, but with the two-lane track these will

be 75 metres wide, which is the width of 1½ football

pitches. Fast ‘bullet’ trains could run frequently in

both directions, especially at peak times. As the route

of the line runs right past the A42 junction near

Tesco we understand that this will be redeveloped.

Despite the staggering timescale involved – trains will

not run until after 2030 – the impact on the town has

already begun with fear of the impact and changes

that the new line could bring having an effect on

those who are buying or selling property in Ashby.

Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive of the National

Forest Company has stated that the line would require

the removal of a considerable number of semi-

mature trees,

affecting wildlife

and biodiversity

and being disruptive to the communities. She has

also expressed concerns that the scheme may have

negative local economic impacts.

Whether or not you believe HS2 will benefit the

country, or whether indeed it ever gets built, the fact

is that while the current plans exist, our town is

impacted.

Detailed maps are available online (see highlighted

links) and we would urge people to view them and to

also bring them to the attention of friends and

neighbours along the route. Local MP Andrew

Bridgen has recently come out against the scheme

but do please contact him (you’ll find an easy link on

the Anti-HS2 website above) so that you can make

your views count.

Fisher German in Ashby has a dedicated HS2 team

providing property owners with advice to place them

in the best possible position if and when the

scheme does go ahead – you can contact John Ikin

on 01530 410814.

On 28th January the government released detailed plans for HS2 - ourthanks go to all those who immediately brought their concerns about theimpact of the scheme on our local area to our attention and in particularto Jon Dunn who provided much of the information for this article

Impartial summary of HS2: http://bit.ly/hs2advice Pro-HS2 website: http://www.go-hs2.com

Anti-HS2 website: http://stophs2.org




10 Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

it’s local

Local runners, Matt Yates and James Finney are

counting down the weeks now until the 2013

London Marathon. Both are running to raise

funds for MacMillan Cancer Support - a charity that

James feels particularly close to, having lost his

wonderful grandma to breast cancer some years

ago. Preparations for the big event have included

more than the usual training that one may expect

as the boys decided to get people involved and try

to raise money in more inventive and unique ways in

addition to traditional sponsorship.

January saw them hosting a Masked Ball at

Donington Park Farmhouse Hotel with live

entertainment, a hog roast and coaches available for

those wanting transport, the event was a big

success, raising around £3,000 for Macmillan. This

is being followed by charity bike rides and a local

walk around the Ashby area – though James says he

won’t be repeating last year’s feat when he

completed a walk for the British Heart Foundation

dressed as an 8ft Easter Bunny!

Keep an eye

out for Matt

and James in

this year’sci

London

Marathon

which takes place on

21st April, if you’d like tovvv vv

support them you’ll find them online at http://runformooresponsorme.org/Matt-James2013

Also getting their boots on for charity this year are

Richard and Michaela Beale from Donisthorpe.

They will be taking part in an eighty mile trek from

Ilkeley in North Yorkshire right across to Lake

Windermere to raise money for Epilepsy Action.

Both have experienced epilepsy so know the value

of the help that the charity offers to 50 million

people worldwide who are affected by the

condition. Find out more about Rick and Kayla at

www.justgiving.com/RickandKayla

Matt & James

Fun, fit and Fundraising!




Around Thornton Reservoir

For this month’s walk we visited Thornton reservoir, a beautiful spot with hard paths that take you on a pretty walk

following the banks of the reservoir. Having said that there were still quite a few puddles and muddy bits when we

went. Severn Trent were advising visitors to wear wellingtons or walking boots. Dog walkers should note that there are

signs at several points around the reservoir asking for dogs to be kept on lead and a short section at the end of the walk

is on the pavement alongside the road that crosses the end of the reservoir. There is a small, free, car park and I met a

variety of friendly ducks1, geese and swans beside the shore there. On the walk you

are likely to see a good selection of birds on the water including grebes and coots.

Allow an hour to an hour and a half for this walk.

The directions given to the start are those that I felt were most straightforward, but

there are probably shorter routes available if you cut across country. If you would

like to use a sat. nav. to find the best route then the postcode is LE67 1AR.

This is a little further out of town than usual and I’m never sure which is thebest route there but this one works for me! Leave Ashby on the A511 headingout towards Coalville. Continue on the A511, passing Coalville and Bardonuntil you come to the Flying Horse Roundabout just before Markfield. Turnright here, signed Stanton and Thornton. Stay on this road until you reach a

turning on your right signed for Thornton. Take this turning and then keep followingthe signs to Thornton until you reach and then go through the village. At the endof the village turn left into Merrylees Road and immediately left again intoThornton Reservoir Car Park.

Leaving the car park take the path that leads off to your left as you face the water.Follow this tarmac path along with the reservoir on your right hand side.

After a little way you will come to an unusually shaped building that houses theexhibition centre2, fishing lodge andtoilets.

Passing by the lodge, go through awooden swing gate onto a hard-corepath, still walking alongside the watersof the reservoir. Pass by the rear of StPeters Church and continue along this

path to come to the weir3 that runs across this end of the reservoir.The weir is fenced off, not being safe to cross, and the path continuesa little further before turning to the right and crossing a bridge toreach the next bank of the reservoir4.

The path briefly splits in two here, we took the right hand split which goes nearer to the water and gave us alovely view of the various different water birds, but as the paths do rejoin a little further along either would do.

Follow this well-made path for the whole distance of this side of the reservoir with farmland off to your left atthe start and then a very attractive wooded area. If you are feeling a little moreadventurous there are a variety of paths for both walkers and cyclists available soyou can explore the woods which are on your left and then rejoin the main path.

On coming to the end of this side of the reservoir you will again bear right andcross a bridge over a stream to follow along the opposite bank of this arm of thereservoir (the whole reservoir is shaped roughly like a letter Y and you are now on thesecond point of it). Keep straight on along this path, with the water still on your righthand side until you reach a large metal gate, with a smaller wooden swing gatebeside it. Go through this into a small area alongside the road.

Cross over the road to reach the pavement on the far side and turn right, followingthe road as it runs across the end of the reservoir. Where the pavement ends crossback over the road and go through the opening leading into the car park where youstarted out.

All walks are checked shortly before publication but please be aware that paths may change over time and with the seasons.

a walk in the forest

1

2

3

4






www.ashbychurch.co.uk

Mothering Sunday Editorial by Ashby Christadelphian Church, Union Passage, Ashby

www.ashbychurch.co.uk

This month we will be celebrating Mothering

Sunday. A day when children give presents,

flowers and cards to their mothers to say

“thank you” for their love and care. Mothers are often

the stabilising influence which keeps family life on-

track. It is therefore absolutely right that they should

get a day to be spoilt by the rest of the family.

Traditionally, Mothering Sunday was a day when

children, mainly daughters who had gone to work as

domestic servants, were given a day off to visit their

mother and family. Centuries ago it was considered

important for people to return to their home or

'mother' church once a year. So, each year in the

middle of Lent, everyone would visit their ‘mother’

church - the main church or cathedral of the area.

Inevitably the return to the ‘mother’ church became

an occasion for family reunions, when children who

were working away returned home and gave their

mum wild flowers as a gift – instigating Mothering

Sunday.

Spending quality time with our families, away from

the everyday distractions of life and work, is still

really important. However, we don’t need to wait for

a ‘special occasion’ or celebration before we return

to church.

At church we spend time with our families and

together worship God, ‘our Father in heaven’. Here

we are part of a bigger spiritual family. We are so

fortunate to have God as our Father, what’s more, he

wants to have us as his children, being part of His

family. Just as we would not leave our children,

neither will God leave or abandon us, his family.

So, don’t wait for a reason to return to church, or

even come for the very first time… make it this week

– you’ll also perhaps be surprised how at home and

part of the family you really feel.

Useful passage to look up: Ephesians ch2 v19-22




open 4 business


For the last few months we’ve had Ashby WebDesign hard at work adding some fabulous newfeatures to our website and now it’s live, offering agreat online resource for all who live, work or visitour local area. So, here are details of the new bitsthat we’ve added on:

LOCAL OFFERS I think pretty much everyone has

felt the pinch financially over the last year so if there

is a deal available that could save you a bit of money

then it’s good to know about it! Now we have a whole

new section where you will find a selection of

fabulous offers from local businesses which offer you

extra value or money

off. You can view the

latest offer, or view

offers by type (such as

food and drink,

beauty etc). To start

saving now just go to

www.ashbylife.co.ukand click on Local

Offers.

WHERE TO EATFeeling hungry?

Our new online

Where to Eat guide

brings you a great

choice of local restaurants and other food

outlets. Just click on your choice and you’ll find more

details such as what kind of food they serve, opening

hours, contact details and, of course, if they have any

special offers for Ashby Life readers!

WHERE TO GO It’s great to get out and about so to

find loads of wonderful places that you can enjoy

take a look at our new Where to Go section. If you

want to get involved with local activities you should

find

plenty of information in

our downloadable ‘What’s On’. Looking for

something to do with friends or the family at the

weekend? You’ll find links to various sites including

Somewhere Nice to Go (the official Guide managed

by the Tourist Information Office), the National Forest

Website, Ashby Online and Go Leicestershire. The

perfect answer to any cry of ‘What shall we do today?’!

ONLINE MAGAZINE Do you

live out of area? Or perhaps

you haven’t got your copy of

the magazine handy or would

like to see the latest issue before it even hits the

streets? You can read the whole magazine online

on our website – updated about a week before

the printed copy comes out.

TWITTER & FACEBOOK There is now a live feed for

our latest tweet plus links to our Facebook and

Twitter pages. Here you’ll find news, views and more

about Ashby - Why not join us on Facebook for a chat?

These are all new additions and sit alongside our other

online features including:

BuSINESS DIRECTORY Need to find a local

business quickly? Search our local business

directory by type of business or name quickly and

easily. If you are after a tradesman, shop or service

this is the place to look.

LOCAL WALKS So many lovely places to walk in the

National Forest. Follow our local walks link and you’ll

soon be enjoying the countryside around Ashby.

ASHBY LIFE BLOG Follow the editor’s ramblings

here! You’ll find everything from our beekeeping

escapades to latest news from the office.

Take a look at the new, updated, www.ashbylife.co.uk– save it in your favourites and you’ll have a whole

treasure trove of local information just a click away.

Fancy a meal out, but can’t think where to go?

Looking for a good day out for friends or family?

Want to find out where you can save money and

what offers are available locally? Then look no

further than www.ashbylife.co.uk!

Just a click away!

www.ashbylife.co.uk





wordsearch





out to lunch

THIS month we take a look at Zamani’s Restaurant – a really

popular spot situated right in the town centre (facing onto Market

Street, but with the entrance in Rushton’s Yard). As well as being

a fabulous location for an evening out Zamani’s is also perfect for

lunch with friends or a business luncheon. There is something

about the setting and atmosphere that always gives a meal there

the feel of being ‘a bit special’ and this is matched by the welcome

you receive and service that you get.

The lunch time menu varies but always

offers a great choice of dishes and

wonderful value for money. As you’d

expect there is a good choice of pasta

dishes and a range of pizza’s on offer but

along with these are specials which

include traditional British dishes such as

homemade burger or sausages and mash

made with locally sourced ingredients. Portions are perfect for

lunchtime too, not so huge as to send you to sleep for the afternoon!

There are a selection of starters and desserts too – for me lunch times are usually a main course only but I

did manage to persuade myself that in the interests of research for this article I really ought to try a dessert

the last time I went. I can report that the profiteroles were lovely!

The restaurant has got a bit bigger inside since the alterations were done (last

year, I think) and there is usually plenty of room at lunchtime, though if you

were planning a business meeting or celebration for a number of people I’d

book ahead to be on the safe side. A lovely touch to the inside décor at the

moment is a selection of pictures from last year’s Jubilee Street Party – there

are some great ones of Ashby in days of old too, but I think it is lovely to

celebrate more recent times and many of us will have some great memories of

Market Street filled with

people and picnic tables, a

sea of red, white and blue.

Lunch out at Zamani’s

definitely has more of a

‘restaurant’ feel about it as opposed to popping into a

coffee or tea shop, but the prices are amazingly reasonable

and you can get a really lovely lunch for a price which is

comparable to what you could easily find yourself parting

with at a fast food restaurant. The other thing that I love

is that the pricing structure is simple – if you are splitting

the bill with friends no agonising over who had what! At the time of writing, one course was just £4.95, two

courses £7.95 and if you can manage all three courses it’s still only £10.95.

If you work in Ashby why not spoil yourself a bit in your lunch hour – get out of the office, unwind for a bit

and spend your lunch hour at Zamani’s – you’ll go back to the office refreshed and ready to face the afternoon!

The restaurant is open for lunch from noon until 2pm Monday to Saturday and they do Sunday lunches from

12.30pm to 2.30pm. They are also open in the evenings, from 6pm every day.

Zamani’s Restaurant

1 course £4.95

2 courses £7.95

3 courses £10.95




puzzle page

SUDOKU

Fill in the grid so thatevery row, everycolumn and every 3 x 3box contains the digits1 through 9, with norepetition.

That’s all there is to it.

You solve the puzzlewith reasoning andlogic - there’s nomaths involved andno adding up.

It’s fun, it’s challenging,it’s additive!

Solutions to allpuzzles can be found onpage 100.

quICK CROSSWORDACROSS 1 Outermost (7)5 Six sided objects (5)8 Turn (5)9 Woman's holdall (7)

10 Media notice (13)11 Relaxed (6)12 Idiotic (6)15 Exhibition (13)18 Not quietest (7)19 Very angry (5)20 Perfume (5)21 Meals (7)

DOWN1 Additional (5)2 Robbers (7)3 Amusement (13)4 Racial group (6)5 Deep thought (13)6 Religious text (5)7 Seen (7)

11 Hugs (7)13 Not public (7)14 Commented (6)16 Small rodent (5)17 Requirements (5)

Solu

tions o

n p

age 1

00





on the beat

LEICESTERSHIRE

Trading Standards has

received a report from

a resident in the Coal-

ville area who was cold-

called at their home

by a man claiming

to be from Trading

Standards.

The man had an identification badge which the

resident described as looking 'home-made'. He

explained to the resident that Trading Standards

were collecting information about ‘cowboy

builders’ who had been arrested in the area and

asked for the resident’s name and address. This

was not one of our officers and further enquiries

are underway in order to try and identify the

individual concerned.

All Trading Standards Officers carry official

Leicestershire County Council photographic

identification,

including contact numbers for the

Trading Standards Service that members of the

public can contact to determine whether the

caller is from the Service or not.

Residents are advised never to give any personal

information to those calling at their homes unless

they are able to verify that individual's identity

and reason for their visit.

If you receive any reports of similar activity orcallers please contact Trading Standards on08454 04 05 06 and Leicestershire Police on101, as there is a proven link between boguscallers and distraction burglary.

PC 1667 MARK ARJOONorth West Leicestershire Police

tel: 101 voicemail ID: 1667email: [email protected]

Hello Everyone...






Ashby Bowls ClubOpen DayAshby Bowls Club are holding an open day for beginners

on 7th April 2013 starting 2pm at the Green on Bath

Grounds, behind the Royal Hotel, Station Road. All ages

welcome. Coaching given free. please wear flat soled (no

heel) leisure shoes while on the Green. Contact Paul

Stokes on 01530 417747 for further details.

Ashby Arts Festival’s Art ExhibitionPrizes to the value of £100 & £50Entries £2.00 per exhibit. Applications to be in by Friday

10th May 2013. Entry forms and conditions of entry will

be available soon from Ashby Tourist Information Centre

and on the website www.ashbyartsfestival.co.uk

Social Volleyball at Hermitage Leisure CentreNew players wantedHermitage volleyball club run a social volleyball session

every Sunday evening at Hermitage Leisure Centre from

7pm to 8.30pm. Regular members range from good to

complete beginners. They would love to increase

numbers and are looking for more players. There are

also more formal training sessions on Thursday

evenings and some of the Sunday players also attend

on Thursdays, plus there are men’s, women’s and mixed

teams for people to get involved in too. If you would like

to come on Sundays, email: [email protected].

sch, look for us on Facebook or simply turn up! Cost is

£3 per session. Our next sessions are on the 10th and

24th March or 7th, 14th, 21st or 28th April - please

check future sessions are on before coming along!

National Forest Wood FairMake a date in your diaryWith a full programme of demonstrations, 'have a go'

wood craft sessions and children's fun and games, the

National Forest Wood Fair guarantees to keep both

adults and children alike entertained all day over August

Bank Holiday Monday! The Wood Fair is a celebration

of trees, woodlands, forestry, timber and fantastic

woodcrafts. First held in 2005 this popular event

attracts visitors from all over the country, and over 100

exhibitors and demonstrators. With extended hours this

year, there will be even more time to make the most of

this brilliant day out. The 2013 event will be held on

Monday 26 August, 9am - 6pm, in the stunning setting

of Beacon Hill Country Park.

St Helen's ChurchThe CottageSt Helen’s Church are currently working hard to raise

funds to rebuild the Parish Hall, 'The Cottage'. There is

a small exhibition in Ashby Library showing the progress

of the project so far and what we plan to do next.

Please go in and have a look; ask your friends and family

to go in and look too. If you are inspired, then pop next

door to the Museum to purchase a DVD of the

archaeological dig.

Ashby Arts Festival’s Photography CompetitionPrizes to the value of £100, £50 and £25Entries £2 per photograph – can be any subject - so get

snapping and preparing your pictures. Closing date –

11th May 2013. Entry forms will be available soon from

Ashby Tourist Information Centre and on the website

www.ashbyartsfestival.co.uk

Walk for HealthEvery Wednesday at 10amWe are trained Volunteer Walk leaders who want to offer

a range of Health Walks to Ashby and are hoping to

move out to surrounding areas. NWLDC and the GP

referral scheme are helping to promote us. Starting

from Hood Park Leisure Centre, walking in a group is a

great way to start some physical activity, to explore

more of where you live and even make new friends. Free

Parking at leisure centre – put car registration in at desk!

Call 07547 901513 for details, or just turn up. It's free!

Ashby Open Gardens 2013In aid of Cancer ResearchWe are planning for our open weekend on August 10th

& 11th. There are currently around 12 gardens expected

to be open on either day. If you would like to join us and

open your garden on that weekend (either or both days)

or want more information about opening your garden,

please contact us by e-mail (info@ashbyopengardens.

co.uk) or ring Jan (01530 413225). For general

enquiries, please visit www.ashbyopengardens.co.uk.

Rotary SantaA thank you for money raisedThanks to the continuing generosity of the people of

Ashby and the surrounding villages, the three Ashby

Rotary Clubs donated cheques for £4000 each to

Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, the

Robbie Anderson Cancer Trust and Donisthorpe Scout

Group. The three Rotary clubs wish to thank all the

people of Ashby and neighbouring communities who

gave so generously to the annual Reindeer collections

and hope that all the children (and grown- ups) enjoyed

Santa’s visits and did not get too wet!

Ashby de la Zouch Town CouncilCalendar of MeetingsThe Parks & Cemetery Committee meet on 4th March,

the Finance & Tourism Committee on 11th March and

the Planning & Licensing Committees on 25th March.

The Council meeting takes place on 18th March.

Meetings take place at Legion House, South Street

and start at 6.30pm. Members of the public are

welcome to attend and there is a slot for public

questions. There is also a Councillor Surgery on 11th

March at 5.30pm at Legion House. On 5th March there

will be a meeting of the Ashby, Measham and Moira

Community Forum at Ivanhoe College, 6pm with an

opportunity to see detailed routes and discuss views

on the proposed HS2 route along with other topics.

community board





somewhere in the forest

WIN £25 IN OuR PRIZE COMPETITION. An interesting object, so

easily overlooked – do you know whereabouts in the National Forest our

photograph was taken? Just send the name of the location to us at:

Competition, Ashby Life, 16 Moira Road, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 2GA.

(if you don’t want to cut out the entry form you can send the answeron a postcard) or enter by email to: [email protected]

Entries close on Friday 8th March. The winner will be chosen at randomfrom all correct entries. The winner will be notified and a cheque for£25 sent within 14 days of the closing date, the winners name will also

be printed in the following edition of Ashby Life. Multiple or automated entriesare not allowed. We will not pass your details to any third party. We may use your details to send you

marketing emails from Ashby Life in the future – if you would prefer that we did not, please tick the box

Name

Address

Postcode

Email address

Answer

Congratulations to Sandra McEwan, winner of last month’scompetition, who correctly identified Moira Furnace.





storytime

The last rays of afternoon sun

filtered through the sitting room

blinds. Gavin sipped his tea and

listened for the sound of the

kitchen door closing.

“Granddad, while Gran’s out of the

room there’s something I want your

advice about”.

Jack glanced up from

his newspaper.

“She may be out of the

room lad, but it doesn’t

mean she’s not listen-

ing”.

“I heard that”, Ivy called

from the kitchen.

Jack grimaced and

lowered his voice,

“What is it then?”

Gavin took a deep

breath.

“I’m thinking of asking

Abbie to marry me”. He looked at

Jack for signs of approval.

“What’s the best way to ask so

that she’ll say yes?”

Jack suppressed a smile and

folded up his paper slowly.

“How long have you been courting,

two years?”

“Granddad”, Gavin laughed, “No

one says courting these days”.

“Don’t they?” Jack feigned

surprise, “Shame”.

“How did you propose to Gran?”

Gavin asked.

Jack took off his spectacles and

cleaned them on his sweater.

“Well, you know in those days your

Gran taught at her dad’s dancing

school”.

Gavin nodded. He had heard the

story of how they met before -

how Jack went to dancing classes

just to get to know Ivy.

“She was a wonderful dancer, your

Gran”, Jack smiled to himself.

“Wonderful to watch - she could spin

them round like scooping ducks off

a pond”.

“But how did you actually propose?”

Gavin asked.

“Well, there’s a story”. Jack

chuckled as he remembered.

“That autumn I knew I was going to

be posted so I got hold of a sack of

daffodil bulbs. Not easy you know,

as there was a war on”. Gavin

nodded and dunked another

garibaldi biscuit.

“I went round to your Gran’s house

in the middle of the night and

planted them in her dad’s back

lawn”. He grinned at Gavin. “Do

you get it lad?”

Gavin shook his head.

“You see I planted them so that

when they came up in the spring

they would spell out ‘Will you marry

me?’”.

Jack slapped his leg and burst

out laughing. The tea cups

rattled.

“So, did it work?”

Jack turned unusually sombre.

“Well before I could get an answer I

was sent to Dunkirk. I was a prisoner

of war for five years and your Gran

didn’t know if I was alive or dead”.

The two men were silent for a

moment, then Jack remembered

the last part of his tale. “When I

finally got back I said to

Ivy “What do you reckon

then?””.

Ivy walked into the room

with a plate of buttered

scones.

“And I said, ‘Can I have a

bit more time to think

about it?’” Ivy winked at

Gavin and offered him

the plate.

She settled herself

down on the sofa.

“I was just asking

Granddad how he

proposed”.

Ivy chuckled and stirred her tea.

“Oh yes, the onions”.

“What are you on about?” Jack

said. “They were daffodils”.

“You daft fool; they were onions, all

growing up through the grass saying

‘Will you marry me?’”.

“You never said”. Jack slumped

back in his armchair. “I paid good

money for them”.

”We were eating those onions all

year”. Ivy laughed, “My dad

thought it was marvellous”.

Gavin chewed his scone

thoughtfully. Would he and Abbie

still surprise each other after fifty

years of marriage just like his

grandparents did? He smiled,

realising that true love didn’t care

whether the proposal was made

with onions or flowers as long as

there was a happy ever after.

Spring Onions




useful numbers

LOCAL & EMERGENCY NuMBERS

EMERGENCYEmergency Services. . . . . . 999

Police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Crimestoppers. . . . . . . . . . 0800 555 111

Ambulance Service . . . . . . 0115 884 5000

Fire & Rescue. . . . . . . . . . . 0116 287 2241

Water - STWA. . . . . . . . . . . 0800 783 4444

Electricity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0800 056 8090

Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0800 111 999

Floodline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0845 988 1188

LOCAL COMMuNITYN W Leics Council. . . . . . . 01530 454545

Andrew Bridgen

(Local MP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01530 417736

Ashby Town Council . . . . . . 01530 416961

Leics County Council . . . . . 0116 232 3232

Social Services. . . . . . . . . . 01530 275200

HEALTH CAREAshby Health Centre . . . . . 01530 414131

Dr Shepherd’s Surgery. . . . 01530 417415

Leics Royal Infirmary . . . . . 0300 303 1573

Leics General Hospital . . . . 0300 303 1573

Glenfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0300 303 1573

Queens Hosp Burton . . . . . 01283 566333

Coalville Comm Hosp . . . . 01530 467400

NHS Walk In Centre . . . . . . 01509 553998

NHS Direct. . . . . . . . . . . . . 0845 4647

LEISuRETourist Information . . . . . . 01530 411767

Hood Park Leis Centre . . . . 01530 412181

Hermitage Leis Centre . . . . 01530 811215

Measham Leis Centre . . . . 01530 274061

Ashby Library. . . . . . . . . . . 0116 305 5917

Ashby Museum . . . . . . . . . 01530 560090

Venture Theatre . . . . . . . . . 01530 560649

Conkers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01283 216633

Snibston Discovery . . . . . . 01530 278444

Cineworld (Burton) . . . . . . 0871 200 2000

EDuCATIONStephensons College . . . . . 01530 836136

Burton College. . . . . . . . . . 01283 494400

Loughborough College. . . . 01509 215831

Ashby School . . . . . . . . . . . 01530 413748

Ivanhoe College . . . . . . . . . 01530 412756

Manor House School . . . . . 01530 412932

Ashby Hilltop School . . . . . 01530 415736

Ashby C of E

(Burton Road) . . . . . . . . . . 01530 412243

Packington Primary . . . . . . 01530 412425

Woodcote School . . . . . . . . 01530 417007

Ashby Willesley . . . . . . . . . 01530 413654

PLACES OF WORSHIPAshby Baptist Church . . . . 01530 413721

Ashby Congregational . . . . 01530 563301

Ashby Christadelphian. . . . 01530 412011

Holy Trinity Church . . . . . . 01530 412339

Our Lady of Lourdes . . . . . 01530 412237

St Helens Church. . . . . . . . 01530 412970

HELPSamaritans . . . . . . . . . . . . 08457 909090

N W Leics Citizens Advice . 0844 499 2375

Childline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0800 1111

NSPCC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0808 800 5000

RSPCA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0300 1234 999

Consumer Direct . . . . . . . . 08454 040506

Macmillan Cancer . . . . . . . 0808 808 0000

Alcoholics Anon . . . . . . . . . 0845 7697 555

TRANSPORTTraveline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0871 200 2233

The Train Line . . . . . . . . . . 0871 244 1545

National Rail Enq. . . . . . . . 0845 7484950

Passport Office . . . . . . . . . 0300 222 0000

East Midlands Airport . . . . 0871 919 9000





Kale is from the same

family as cabbage.

It’s packed with

calcium, vitamins

and other nutrients

as well as being full

of fibre. It’s already

classed as a super

food, but this

simple supper dish

proves that it’s

super-tasty too

seasonal recipes

GET STARTED

1 Brush the loaf tin with oil and line it with

greaseproof paper.

2 Put the flour, spice, carrots, bicarbonate of soda,

sultanas, coconut, nuts and sugar together in a large

bowl, stir and then make a well in the middle.

3 Mix the eggs and oil together in a jug and pour into

the centre of the well.

4 Gradually bring the mixture in together and stir it

thoroughly.

5 Pour carrot cake mix into the cake tin and place on

the middle shelf in the oven.

6 After about ¾ of an hour the cake will be quite

brown on top but the middle will still be a little

runny, place a piece of foil over the top of the cake

tin and put back in the oven until the cake is cooked

all the way through.

7 When cooked turn the cake on to a wire cooling rack

over a shallow tray. Whilst cooling the cake put the

orange juice and sugar in a pan and heat until the

sugar has melted.

8 Prick the cake with a cocktail stick still leaving it

turned upside down then pour the syrup over it and

leave it to soak into the cake until the cake is

completely cooled.

9 Finally, mix the cream cheese with the sieved icing

sugar, turn the cake the right way up and spread the

frosting evenly all over the top, you can decorate

with crumbled walnuts.

YOu WILL NEED

• 60g penne pasta

• 2 tablespoonsextra virgin oliveoil

• 1/2 a bunch ofkale, finelychopped

• Handful of babyspinach

• 1 clove garlic,crushed

• 30g sun-driedtomatoes in oil,drained &chopped

• 1/2-1 tsp crushedred pepper flakes

• Salt and groundpepper to taste

YOu WILL NEED

• 200g self raising flour

• 175g brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• ¼ pint sunflower oil

• 3 level teaspoons mixedspice

• 1 level teaspoonbicarbonate of soda

• 200g grated carrot

• 110g sultanas

• 50g desiccated coconut

• 50gchoppedwalnuts

SYRuP

• 75g soft dark brownsugar

• ¼ pint orange juice

TOPPING

• 200g full fat soft creamcheese

• 100g icing sugar

PennePasta with Kaleand SundriedTomatoes

GET STARTED

1 Cook the pasta according to the

instructions.

2 Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a frying pan

over medium heat. Add garlic, kale,

spinach and salt – cook gently for a

couple of minutes, then add sun-dried

tomatoes and red pepper flakes.

3 Drain pasta and add to

veggie mixture in

skillet – stir well.

Drizzle with a little

extra virgin olive

oil and some

Parmesan

shavings and

serve.

Oven 1500CGas 2

Serves 1Ready in20 mins

Moist CarrotCake






ashby town council

DATES FOR TOWN COuNCIL MEETINGS are published on the Community Board pages of Ashby Life each month. Thepublic are welcome to attend and there is always a slot for public questions. Find out more about your Town Council byvisiting the offices at South Street, Ashby de la Zouch, calling 01530 416961 or via www.ashbytowncouncil.org.uk

A neighbourhood plan – what do you like?

FIRSTLY this month HS2 has caused concern amongresidents in the town since the government announcedthe proposed route on 28th January. The Town Councilwere as surprised as everyone else to find the routepassing so close to Ashby and are committed toproviding as much information as possible to the public.At the time of going to print the Town Council had notyet discussed this matter, this will take place in duecourse - the official public consultation period has not yetbegun. Large scale maps of the intended route are ondisplay at Legion House and available for members ofthe public to view during our normal opening hours of9am to 1pm or at any other reasonable time by priorarrangement with the Town Clerk. In addition we willcontinue to monitor developments and provide updateson the Town Council website at www.ashbytowncouncil.org.uk. We also have information on the ExceptionalHardship Scheme Consultation which may be of interestto those whose residential, agricultural or small businesspremises values may be affected by the proposed routeand who may have a need to sell before the statutoryprotection comes into place. Call in to pick up a leafleton the Exceptional Hardship Scheme Consultation.

Also of interest to many are the various planningapplications for further housing within the town and howthese are progressing. The application for the MoneyHill Scheme was rejected by Ashby Town Council whooppose it from a highways point of view due to theproposed access route which comes out ontoNottingham Road. This application will now go to theNorth West Leics. District Council at Coalville for theirconsideration. With regards to the appeal concerningthe application for the Holywell Spring Farm develop-ment off Burton Road, at the time of writing the publicenquiry was due to start shortly (taking place from 19thFebruary).

There is good news concerning the Westfields RecreationGround. There is now a residents association activewithin the area in the form of The Friends of Westfields andfunding is in place for some excellent new playequipment for the park. Work is due to start aroundEaster to install a good variety of equipment for all ages,including traditional swings, a climbing frame and crazymaze. The Friends of Westfields are also hoping to be ableto paint the pavilion on the recreation ground - if you’dlike to join or know more about this group please contactClaire Boden on 01530 451596.

Funding is also available now for the replacement of theskate park adjacent to Hood Park Leisure Centre. Whilewe are keen to provide the improved facility as soon aspossible we are still awaiting the necessary planningpermission before work can start.

We now have a steering group who are looking at theformation of a Neighbourhood Plan for the town. Thisplan gives us the chance to shape the look of the town inregards to use of space, housing, leisure and employ-ment and would last around 20 years. Public con-sultation will start soon with sessions scheduled from onMonday 15th April 2pm to 4.30pm, Tuesday 16th9.30am to noon and 6pm to 8.30pm and Saturday 20th10am to 12.30pm, with a view to finding out what peoplelike about the town, what they don’t like and whatresidents feel that the town doesn’t already have but theywould want. If you’d like to be involved in this projectplease contact Karen Edwards at Legion House to findout more.

Julia Harley has now been appointed as Events Managerand we already have a range of dates planned for 2013which build on the success of last year’s events. A Foodand Drink festival is proposed for the Saturday of theSpring Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May - thisalso marks the start of the Ashby Arts Festival which runsfrom 25th May to 9th June. Later in the Arts Festival wewill again host the popular Fake Festival. The Fake Festivalwill take place on Saturday 8th June in the Bath Groundsand features tribute acts The Fillers, Flash and The Jam’das well as local bands and a stack of otherentertainment. Early bird tickets are on sale alreadyeither online at www.fakefestivals.co.uk or via localoutlets. During the summer holiday period we areplanning a family event for the Bath Grounds on the linesof a summer picnic/music in the park – the date is yetto be confirmed but this is likely to take place in August.Remembrance Day, on 10th November, is another bigevent within the town which requires forward planningand co-ordination. We round the year off with the 2013Ashby Christmas Event which will take place on Saturday30th November.

A date for your diaries this month is the Ashby 20 roadrace on 17th March. Viewed by some as the premier pre-London Marathon training race this event has grownsteadily with the organisers building on nearly a quarterof a century of success. The race will finish at the BathGrounds with the Town Mayor presenting the awards.As part of the Olympic legacy Councillor Bebington hasbeen appointed sports ambassador for the town andmeetings are taking place with local sports clubs. Weare investigating the possibility of hosting an Ashbysports day.

Finally, congratulations go to the successful nominees forthe 2012 Civic Award. This was a joint award to KennethHillier and Di Lorriman in recognition of the excellentwork that both have done for the town through theirinvolvement with the Ashby de la Zouch Museum.




money matters

Real Time Information (RTI) – are you ready?

LOCAL Businesses need to be aware of a newmethod of reporting PAYE information which HMRCis introducing called Real Time Information or RTI.From April 2013, employers will be legally requiredto report PAYE in real time.

This change means that information about all PAYE

payments needs to be submitted to HMRC online

each time a payment is made as part of the payroll

process, rather than at the end of the tax year as

they are now.

HMRC will be contacting employers over the next few

months to outline the new changes and

requirements so that businesses can plan for its

launch next year. By October 2013, it will be

necessary for all employers and pension providers

to use RTI.

Why this change is necessary?

HMRC are moving to a real time reporting system

that will bring PAYE into the 21st century. It will make

operating payroll easier

for employers and pension

providers and make the

PAYE system easier for

HMRC to administer. Over

time it will also make PAYE

deductions more accurate

for individuals.

HMRC introduced a pilot

scheme earlier this year to

monitor the impact on

businesses when they

record details of National

Insurance, tax and salary

deductions as they happen rather than at the end of

the tax year.

In order for businesses to comply with RTI they need to

start planning now to ensure that:

• The PAYE software is able to support RTI and they

are registered for online PAYE

• They have the correct information on all members

of staff – name, age, address etc

• All staff need to be informed of the changes

• All information is added to payroll records

• Your payroll data is aligned with HMRC

HMRC Guidance on RTI now includes a breakdown of

the penalties for late or inaccurate submissions:

• Penalties will not begin until 2014 - The current

penalty regime will continue to apply at the

year end

• Automated late payment penalties will not begin

until April 2014

• HMRC has consulted with employers, payroll

providers and software developers on how

penalties will apply from April 2014

How can Baldwins help?

Don’t wait until April 2013!There is still time to start

preparing now to give you

the maximum time to

prepare your systems and

procedures. If you are still

unsure of your require-

ments, Baldwins can help

and advise you on the best

solution for your business.

Lisa Emery, Accountant at

Baldwins said “It is impor-

tant that local businesses

start planning now. This is not going to go away

and all businesses need to comply. There will be

changes that businesses need to put into effect.

Baldwins can certainly help you prepare for RTI

and cannot stress enough that you need to be think-

ing about this now – April 2013 still seems a away

off but it is not!”

This month Lisa Emery of Baldwins explains RTI including what it will mean for employers

and what can be done to ensure that your business is prepared for Real Time Information.

For more information or to see how Baldwins can help your business please contact

Lisa Emery on 01530 416688 or via email at [email protected]






book reviews

Watership DoWn... Richard AdamsFiver can sense impending doom. Something very bad is coming to the rabbitwarren and fleeing is the only way to save the clan. His brother Hazel knows thatFiver is never wrong and so they embark on the journey of a lifetime to findsanctuary at Watership Down. Crammed full of amazing rabbit folklore, myths,legends and even their own language of ‘Lapine’, we becometotally immersed in Fiver and Hazel’s world, carried along onthis amazing and perilous journey across southern England.Is that ‘Bright Eyes’ I can hear?

WarHorse... Michael Morpurgo

Based on the true story of a horse named ‘Warrior’, WarHorse follows the tale of Joey, a young mount who is sold tothe cavalry for service in the First World War and the attemptsof his previous owner Albert to bring him home safely. ButAlbert isn’t old enough to enlist and so sets off under his own steam to try and findhis beloved Joey. It’s an amazing story of bravery and friendship, set against thebloodiest of backdrops and you can’t help but gallop alongside the intrepid pair.

Charle’s Web... E.B. White

Wilbur really is ‘some pig’ and it’s up to a spider named Charlotte to tell the world. Bashfuland whimsical Wilbur is horrified to learn that he’s facing the chop. His human protector,Fern, might not be able to save him all on her own and it looks like it’s up to the barn’sresident arachnid to save his bacon. Can Charlotte convince the farmer that Wilbur reallyis worth hanging onto; how can a spider be that persuasive? Ok, sothe clue is in the title but this is a thoroughly charming tale thatwill have you laying off the sausages, and letting the cobwebshang around a bit longer, way after you’ve put the book down.

White Fang... Jack London

Set in Canada during the gold rush at the end of the 1800s, White Fang is the story ofa half dog-half wolf hybrid puppy and his attempts to find his place in the world. It’san epic story of survival, with White Fang struggling against the violent backdrop ofthe Yukon Territory and then the equally menacing and threatening life that awaits himas he is adopted by American Indian Grey Beaver and attempts to live as adomesticated canine. White Fang’s new life is just as brutal, as he fails to be accepted byother young dogs and so reverts to being the ‘lone wolf’, detached and isolated in the frozen wastelands.

The Art of Racing in the Rain... Garth Stein

Another dog has his day now and this time it’s Enzo who wants to be reincarnated as a human; he believes inthe Mongolian legend that a dog ‘who is prepared’ will come back as a man. Enzo already feels human - hewatches television and listens carefully to everything his master, racing driver Denny Swift, tells him. Throughwatching and listening, Enzo has gleaned that his human family is in trouble and he must do everything inhis power to fix them. ‘Heart-warming’ doesn’t come close. For everyone who ever thought of their dog as thefifth member of their family, Enzo’s story of his humans will have you reaching for the tissues before the novelis finished.

‘Hang spring-

cleaning!’ cries

Mole in Kenneth

Grahame’s The Wind

in the Willows. The

critters are

emerging from

hibernation, and so

are we. We’ve picked

a selection of the

best novels where

animals are calling

the shots.

What better way to

welcome in the

warmer weather,

than with some tales

from the riverbank…

Creature Comforts




what’s on...

27th FebruaryFilm Night, Ashby de la Zouch - ‘TheAfrican queen’ (PG). A cinemaclassic, starring Humphrey Bogart inhis only Oscar winning performanceas a gin-swilling river boat captainwith Katharine Hepburn as a straightlaced missionary.Film starts at 7.30pm. Doors & baropen from 7pm. The Lyric Rooms,Lower Church Street, Ashby de laZouch, LE65 1ABTickets £5 - available on the door orin advance from Ashby TIC 01530411767.

1st MarchCentury Cinema at Century Theatre:Skyfall (12A). James Bond's loyaltyto M is tested as her past comes backto haunt her, bringing MI6 underattack. Stars Daniel Craig and JudiDench. At Century Theatre, Snibston.Tickets: £3.50 pay on the door. Tel:01530 278444.

2nd MarchGresley Male Voice Choir present a StDavid's Day Celebration at Holy TrinityChurch, Ashby, 7.30pm Tickets £8(concessions £5), available from01530 414539 or La ZouchRestaurant, Ashby (All proceeds toChristian Aid).

3rd MarchHood Park Outdoor Pool Mad MarchSplash - Ashby and Coalville LionsClub are running a Mad March Dip at10am to replace the postponed MidWinter Splash. This event will give youthe unique opportunity to jump intoan unheated pool on a cold earlySpring day at one of the few outdoorpools. For further information or toregister your interest email [email protected] or [email protected], phone07535006602 or look onwww.midwinterdip.co.uk

5th MarchValuation Day - Hosted by Hanson’sAuctioneers at the Staunton HaroldGarden Centre From 10am to 3pm.Antique specialists representingHanson’s Auctioneers will be inattendance so bring along your itemsfor valuation, interest, insurance or tosell at a Hanson’s auction. Valuationsare free, donations to the work ofHospice Hope are welcomed. Formore information about Hospice

Hope, please call Stewart on 01530837267, email [email protected] or see www.hospicehope.org.uk.

The Ashby Royal British Legion meetson the 1st Tuesday of every month,with the exception of January andAugust. Meetings are held at LegionHouse, commencing at 7p.m. Allwelcome. Contact: [email protected] or 01530414390.

6th MarchAshby (Ivanhoe) Travel Club – Mr GGadsby talks on Arizona to Yosemite,at Pithiviers Room at Ivanhoe Collegeat 7.30pm. No joining fee, a modestprice of £1.50. New regularmembers are always most welcome.For further information pleasecontact Joe Shaw 01530 413441.

7th MarchFriends of the Burton Wurlitzer –Present a concert of Theatre OrganMusic at the Burton Town Hall at 2pm(doors open 1.30pm). Organist PhilBrown. This concert is free toeverybody who lives in either aresidential home, or in warden aidedaccommodation. The rest of thepublic is welcome but we do ask for adonation (recommended figure £4).

8th MarchN. Leics National Trust Association -A delicious lunch and a talk by AlanHutchinson titled "The Magic of theMusicals". Alan is the President andDirector of the Ashbeian MusicalTheatre Group and from the keyboardwill test our knowledge of themusicals. For more informationplease ring 01530 563003.

Melbourne Photographic Society -Charles Hanson of Hanson'sAuctioneers, Derby, will give a talkentitled 'The Life of an Auctioneer' atThe Melbourne Assembly Rooms,High Street, Melbourne DE73 8GF.Following his talk he will value aselection of items brought bymembers of the public that evening.His face is known to many for hisregular appearance on BBC BargainHunt he has also appeared on Flog It.Doors open at 7pm and the talkcommences at 7.30pm. Tickets cost£6 and may be purchased by callingthe Melbourne Assembly Rooms on01332 863522 or pay on the door on

the night. There is ample parking andrefreshments will be available.

Century Theatre at Snibston: Comedywith Simon Evans. Fresh from hisappearances on TV's Live at theApollo and Celebrity Mastermind, seeSimon Evans as part of his FriendlyFire national tour for what promisesto be a night of rip-roaring comedy.Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £12advance, £14 on the door. Tel: 01530278444.

9th MarchCentury Theatre at Snibston:Clairvoyance with Tony Stockwell.Starts 2pm and 7.30pm. Tickets:£18.50. Tel: 01530 278444.

15th MarchCentury Theatre at Snibston: ‘DraculaWalks the Night’. Live drama, ahomage to 60s Hammer horror films.Can Sherlock Holmes and VanHelsing thwart the vampire'shorrifying scheme? Starts at 7.30pm.Tickets: £8 advance, £10 on the door.Tel: 01530 278444.

16th MarchThe Panormo Duo - Wendy Jacksonand Chris Susans play 19th centuryguitar duets on original Panormoguitars. At Ashby Methodist Church,Burton Road, Leicestershire LE652LL. From 7.30 pm, cost £10.00(£5.00 concessions). For reservationscall 01530 416564. www.panormoduo.com.

Swannington WI - Spring Sale 10amto 12noon, Swannington Hall, MainSt LE67 8LQ. Vintage Cafe withtea/coffee and cake. Stalls includecrafts, bird tables, handbag amnesty,cards/wrapping paper, weddingaccessories, jewellery, decorated eggand table top sale.

Century Theatre at Snibston: ‘StompAnd Holler’. Out of the embers of TheBig Blues Tribe, Stomp & Holler pullstogether top midlands musicians toexplode on stage with brass, bluesand a vast array of voices. Starts at7.30pm. Tickets: £10. Tel: 01530278444.

Ashby Farmers Market – 9am to 2pmat Manor House School, South Street.Bringing you the finest foods from theregion and specialist stalls. FreeParking.

March into April

continued on p76




what’s on...

16th MarchVenture Jazz Club - ‘The Stars ofBritish Jazz’. Led by Mike Cotton thisband features many of our bestjazzmen. 8pm to 11pm at VentureTheatre, North Street. Ticketsavailable from Ashby TouristInformation 01530 411767.

18th March to 7th AprilA spectacular wildlife photographicexhibition - The National Forest willhost 2020VISION, a nationwidetouring exhibition of outstandingphotographs that celebrate nature,wildlife and people working together.20 top UK wildlife photographersvisited 20 locations throughout theUK – including The National Forest -over 20 months, capturing inspira-tional landscapes and wildlife. TheDelph, Market Square, Swadlincote,Derbyshire. For more information seewww.nationalforest.org/2020vision.

20th MarchFilm Night, Ashby de la Zouch - ‘TheSapphires’ (PG). Inspired by a truestory, this is a rousing, feel-goodmusical drama. The Lyric Rooms,Lower Church Street, Ashby de laZouch, LE65 1AB. Tickets £5 -available on the door or in advancefrom Ashby TIC 01530 411767.

21st MarchCentury Theatre at Snibston: PitmenPoets. The Pitmen Poets celebratethe songs and culture of the NorthEast's Coal Mining tradition, bringingtogether four of the region’s leadingchampions of its musical heritage:Billy Mitchell, Bob Fox, BennyGraham and Jez Lowe. Starts7.30pm. Tickets: £15. Tel: 01530278444.

23rd MarchNorth West Group of Leicestershire& Rutland Wildlife Trust 2012 arecelebrating the centenary year of theWildlife Trust with a concert withAshby Concert Band. The concertprogramme will consist of wellknown, tuneful and enjoyableclassical favourites many of whichwill be around 100 years old to reflectthe anniversary of The Trust. HolyTrinity Church, Kilwardby Streetstarting promptly at 7.30pm.

Admission is £8 for adults and £4 forchildren of school age. This price willinclude interval refreshments.

Charnwood Orchestra annual springconcert at All Saints Parish Church,Sparrow Hill, Loughborough startingat 7.30pm. Tickets will cost £10 (£8concessions) and £3 for accom-panied children under 16. Availablefrom the Box Office: 07718 153117by email to [email protected], from members of theorchestra or on the door. There will bean interval bar selling wine, real aleand fruit juice.

26th MarchAshby Library -“The Oddest Egg”.Stories, crafts and activities for ages4 to10. Ashby Library 10am to11.30am. Cost £1 per child. Bookyour place at the library.Ashby de la Zouch u3A meet at 2pmat Congregational Church, KilwardbyStreet. Speaker Mr R Powell ‘RoyalBastards’. For a small fee of £1,visitors are most welcome to join us,have a cup of tea and learn about thevaried activities available. GroupMeetings are held on the last Tuesdayof every month.

29th March to 1st AprilMoira Furnace is organizing a FREEEaster Heritage Event from 10amuntil 3pm each day. At the FamilyFun Day on Friday 29th March, therewill be craft workshops with localartists, an Easter egg hunt,storytelling, a brass band and more.We currently are inviting children andyoung adults (this can also be agroup of young people, schools,colleges etc.) to enter a competitionto design a community mosaic of theFurnace, Joseph Wilkes narrow boat,the Ashby Canal or a mixture ofeverything that relates to the site.The winning design will be availableon the day for the visitors to start tocreate the mosaic. This is a hands onactivity for all the family. The winnerwill be announced at the Family FunDay at 11am. The deadline for thecompetition is Friday 15th March2013, for further details please visitwww.moirafurnace.org. This is part ofa larger event, featuring an IndustrialHistory Day, Military Day with WW1

and WW2 displays and a re-enactment, and a Social History Day.Please visit www.moirafurnace.org formore details.

30th March to 1st AprilAshby Art Club’s annual exhibition willbe shown in Ticknall Village Hall,Ticknall, Derby DE73 7JW over Easter2013. Opening on Saturday 30thMarch 2013 it also runs on Sundayand Easter Monday, 10am to 5pm.Admission is 50p with refreshmentsavailable. The exhibition will besupporting a local charity. There isample parking and good disabledaccess to the hall. You can look at theclub’s website at www.ashbyartclub.org for examples of members’artwork shown in recent exhibitions.There is also a link to a location mapfor the exhibition venue.

31st MarchSponsored Bible Reading - On EasterSaturday and Easter Monday we areholding a sponsored reading of thewhole of the New Testament at theMethodist Church, Hall Lane,Whitwick. People can get involved inone of four ways. They can offer toread anything from 1 to 5 chapters ofthe New Testament, can come andlisten or request their name to beattached to a particular chapter, canoffer to help with the catering or canoffer to help as stewards. Anyvolunteer wanting further detailscan contact me at [email protected] Starts at 8am eachday, refreshments available.

March into April continued

Did you know it’s free to putcommunity information on thispage? Email the details and

contact number to admin@

ashbylife.co.uk. Deadline for

submissions for the Community

Board or What’s On pages of

the April 2013 issue is Friday8th March.

Information is published subject tospace being available. Ashby Lifecannot be held responsible for anyerrors or omissions or endorsecompanies, products or servicesappearing in the magazine.





ashby museum news

Ashby Museum is giving local artists a chance to showcase their work

this month. Members of the Zouch Art Group have put up a temporary

exhibition of their work, appropriately in our Zouch Gallery, and it

will be there until the 25th March. There is a variety of excellent work to admire

so come along and see for yourself. On Saturday March 16th, members of the

club will be bringing their paints and brushes into our main gallery for an “Art in Museum Day”. We’ll be bringing

out rarely seen artefacts from the archives for them to paint and draw so it will be a chance for members of the

public to see these objects and perhaps take up a brush or pencil and have a go themselves!

We are having a major push to let more of the objects in our archives be seen by the public. One way in which

we are doing this is to ask people to handle and talk about them which we are recording on film. The first set of

objects can be seen now by going to our website, www.ashbydelazouchmuseum.org.uk and following the link

‘Talking Objects’ on the home page.

Our “Treasure Chest of Thoughts and Memories” is now out in the main gallery and visitors are able to record

their own reactions to and reflections on the objects in the displays on special treasure chest cards. These are

placed in the treasure chest for other visitors to read and so make an interesting contribution to the gallery.

The Kids’ History Club was very popular in February. It will take place again on the first Saturday in March when

the theme is ‘The Young Historian’ and in April it will be ‘The Wild West’. We are very grateful to local businesses

T. Pass & Son and Time Consortium Jewellers for sponsoring these events. Finally, the last evening talk of the

winter season takes place on Wed 6th April, 7.30pm when Robert Jones will be telling us the story of Market St.

FRIENDS OF ASHBY MuSEuM We are starting our 2013 activities with our first coffee morning of the year onWednesday March 6th at 10.30am when Richard Bebbington will tell us all about 'Being Mayor of Ashby'. Further eventsare being planned so watch this space for an evening of Snail Racing in May and a Bazaar on September 21st at ManorHouse School. If you have any items you would like to donate to the Bazaar or to the Tombola stalls we are running forour Outreach programme, please ring Janet on 01455 290729 or drop them into the Museum. Thank you.

Coming soon... Snail Racing!




just 4 funS

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Each letter in this puzzle isrepresented by a numberbetween 1 and 26. The codesfor three letters are shown.As you find the letters enterthem in the box below.

CODEWORD






back chat

As some of my regular readers and patients may beaware, I have been on maternity leave after givingbirth to a wonderful baby boy. I am returning towork alongside Tristan at the clinic beginning inFebruary. I thought a good subject to discuss thismonth would be the management of back pain afteryou've had a baby.

CORE STRENGTH There are several muscles which

make up your core. The role of the core muscles are to

stabilise the spine, pelvis and ribs to form a solid base for

movements of the arms and legs.

Pelvic Floor – is responsible for stabilising the pelvis

and supporting the organs in the lower abdomen,

including your uterus and bladder.

Abdominal muscles – these attach to your ribs, pelvis

and lower back. Together with your low back muscles

they act as your body's natural 'weight belt' to protect

your spine.

Diaphragm – is the roof of the abdominal cavity and

your main breathing muscle. The diaphragm muscle

co-ordinates with your pelvic floor to protect the

spine.

WHY AM I MORE PRONE TO SuFFERING WITHBACK PAIN AFTER I HAVE GIVEN BIRTH? There are

quite a few reasons why in the period after you have given

birth that you may be more prone to back problems:

Pregnancy puts a lot of strain on your body. The

growing baby stretches and weakens your abdominal

muscles and pelvic floor (which are both part of your

internal support system for your low back). Also the

weight gain during pregnancy puts extra strain on

your joints.

Hormones during pregnancy have a loosening effect

on your ligaments, this can continue after pregnancy,

especially if you are breastfeeding. It can take some

months for these ligaments to tighten back up again.

This makes your joints more vulnerable to injury.

Labour – a long and difficult labour can put strain on

your back. A C-section weakens the abdominal

muscles and any tearing or episiotomy can weaken

the pelvic floor. Also tiredness and exhaustion after

labour, combined with the sleepless nights can slow

down your recovery.

Posture – Your new baby gets heavier week on week.

Poor posture when picking up baby, bending, lifting

feeding etc. all put extra strain onto your back.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP REDuCE MY BACK PAIN?

The most important step is to strengthen your core.

Pelvic Floor Exercises -

You can start pelvic floor

exercises almost immediately after you've had a baby.

The most basic of these exercises are called Kegels

(named after Dr Kegel).

• To do them you need to squeeze and lift the

muscles of the pelvic floor, closing up the 3

passages. To help you do this, imagine you are

trying to stop yourself passing urine. Start off

gently and gradually build up to holding the

squeeze for 10 seconds and repeating 10 times.

Try doing them in a variety of positions: sitting,

standing, lying etc. Try not to hold your breath

whilst preforming them.

Abdominal Exercises – When your caregiver has

given you the go ahead, you can gradually start

strengthening your abdominal muscles. The most

important of the abdominal muscles is the

transversus abdominus, which is the abdominal

muscle which lays the deepest.

• Lie on your back with your knees bent to 90

degrees, feet flat on the floor. Place your right hand

over your belly button, place your left hand under

the small of your back. The transverse abdominal

muscle is used to pull your stomach in. The aim is

to try and feel a contraction under your right hand,

while feeling no change under your left hand. You

should continue breathing normally while doing

this exercise. If you feel tensing under the left

hand, you should relax and restart the exercise. At

first aim to perform 10 contractions, each being

held for 10 seconds. As you get better, try and

extend the length of time you hold the contraction.

Posture - Pay attention to your posture when lifting,

feeding baby etc.

• When feeding try to sit up tall. Think about your

posture when feeding your baby, whether you're

breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Choose a

comfortable chair and use cushions to support

yourself. If breastfeeding remember to bring baby

to the breast not the other way round.

• When lifting, always bend from your knees.

As with all medical conditions a correct diagnosis is

of paramount importance for the appropriate

treatment and management of the condition. For

more information on the clinic, to discuss a particular

case, or to book an appointment please call Sarah

Kavanagh or Tristan Hill on 01530 440 442 or e-mail

[email protected]

Post-partum back pain




The Zen of Chickens

In years gone by our gardens were very much a place to provide foodfor the kitchen and the revival of ‘grow your own’ in recent times hasseen many of us finding space for a vegetable plot as well as flowerbeds. Of course, you don’t have to stop there, and back gardenchickens have also seen a big boom. Personally I wouldn’t bewithout mine, and it’s not just about the eggs – chickens offerendless hours of entertainment as this month’s writer, DerekThompson, tells us:

Youcanlearn alot aboutlife from a chicken. Behind thatbeak and those golden eyes liesa creature bristling with poultrywisdom.

BE IN THE MOMENT Chickens

seem to have a very short

attention span, unless they’re on

the trail of a worm. However,

they’re actually demonstrating

an ability to detach from the

superficial, which – to a chicken

– is anything inedible.

BE CuRIOuS ABOuT THEWORLD Chickens are life’s little

explorers. They can find that

hole in the fence which I blocked

with some feeble bamboo canes

and never got round to repairing

properly, the last wild straw-

berry, or a snail who thought

hiding behind the coop was a

foolproof survival strategy.

CELEBRATE YOuR SuCCESSESThe commotion a chicken makes

before, while and after laying an

egg is surely one of Nature’s

cruellest jokes. Short of

ringing a dinner bell, it’s the

most efficient way of summ-

oning any fox within a two-

mile radius. Despite that, I

defy any smallholder not

to be impressed at the

‘scraps, grain and grit in,

followed by egg and fertiliser

poop out’ magic trick performed

most days.

BE HOW YOu FEEL Our cat

learned early on that it’s wise to

keep out of the path of a broody,

moody hen. She also discov-

ered they can run surprisingly

fast and launch themselves at

unwitting felines. Me? I learned

that the term ‘an affectionate

peck’ doesn't apply to poultry.

MAKE TIME TO RELAx When

they’re not eating, advertising

their egg-laying prowess, playing

tug-of-war with snails or enjoying

dirt baths, chickens like nothing

better than sitting still and

watching the world go by. Or, if

it’s a sunny day, a spot of

Chicken Yoga might be in order.

You can forget about downward

dog, cat posture or doing the

cobra. For chickens, the yogic

routine is a few luxurious wing

stretches, some flexing of the

neck and then it’s time to sprawl

out in the warm. And if it’s cold

outside? They snuggle up

together in what I call the ‘tea

cosies’ posture.

EAT YOuR GREENS – and give

peas a chance. Impressionable

children the world over would

have no qualms about devouring

chard, lettuce or spinach (to

name but three) if they had a

chicken for a role model. And,

being life’s gourmet connoiss-

eurs, chickens will also happily

try tomatoes, grapes, porridge,

roast potatoes, bananas, raisins

and spaghetti.

The early bird really does get the

worm. Although the slightly

delayed bird may succeed in

taking it off you, if you don't pay

attention. Opportunity not only

knocks, it grabs too.

CARE FOR YOuR ENVIRON-MENT Once again, chickens lead

by example. Whether it's pulling

up the weeds*, providing some

essential pest control or aerating

the soil, chickens are constantly

on the lookout for ways to

contribute.

*A word of caution - an unchecked

chicken gets a little over enth-

usiastic in its garden duties!

PLAY TO YOuR STRENGTHSChickens don't fly or glide

and their singing isn't

up to much. But... they

don't waste food, or an

opportunity, and they make

eggcellent companions.


in your garden





ashby health centre

Latest news...

Patient Participation GroupWe are always looking for new members of our patient participation group(PPG). The group meets every other month on a Wednesday evening from 6pm for anhour to an hour and a half. The idea is to discuss any matters relating to the practice and todiscuss suggestions from the practice or the group for ways to improve the practice. It is early days but weare hoping the group will develop and grow and prove really useful to patients and the practice. If you areinterested in joining then please email to [email protected] and put PPG in the subject line.

Nurse PractitionersThis is just a reminder of what our nurse practitioners can do. We have NurseFiona who works every day and Nurse Sheila who works on Wednesday,Thursday and Friday.

They are nurses who have done an additional degree course so that they areable to consult with patients and prescribe. Often the receptionists will ask ifyou would like to see the Nurse Practitioner and if you are coming about minorailments such as skin problems, contraception, respiratory problems,abdominal problems, musculoskeletal problems, sexual health issues, women’smedical problems, and ear nose and throat problems they are the ideal person

to see. This means that doctors’ appointments are kept free for more complex medical problems.

If you are able to give a brief description of why you want to see one of our clinicians, our reception staffwill be able to make sure you see the appropriate person.

Thanks to all our patients for their ongoing support.



young ashby


PuZZLE SOLuTIONS - CROSSWORD - SuDOKu - CODEWORD & MORE...

HONEYCOMB

WORDSEARCH Hidden Phrase - “The worst club in my bag is my brain.” Chris PerryYOuNG ASHBY - 1. Canberra 2. A Musical Instrument 3. 59

STEP ON IT - Claps, Clips, Slips, Snips, Snipe, Swipe




business directory

Accountants & PayrollAshby Payroll Bureau 47Baldwins 67Haines Watts 9Indivijilly 17Aerials & SatelliteAB Aerials & Satellites 21Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Jewelry, ToysHelen Joyce 29Souk de la Zouch 28Uimagine I Create 29BuildersKeith Armston Building Contractors 60Business ServicesAnne Armstrong 29Ashby Ladies Business Group 29Lion Court Conference Centre 5SJC Marketing 31Carpenters & JoinersDerek Verey 90N M Joinery 89S S Joinery 81Carpets & InteriorsAgadon 3Alan Taylor Carpet & VinylFitter 81Ashby Stoves 79Fairweathers Carpets 32The Bed Shop 24The Suite Superstore 60Toons Furnishings 43Child CareSwingboat Nurseries 104Cleaning, Ironing, Laundry ServicesAllison Webster Cleaning 81Ashby Cleaning Contractors 23Breedon Carpet Care 94Cotton Candy Cleaners 75Deanclean 23Extreme Clean 64Karens Ovengleam 51Oven Cleaning Services 99Safeclean 26Toni's Ironing Angels 20ClothingBraSense 29Embroidery4U 29Heard About Hats 55House of Colour 28Jennies Babywear 61Just for You 89Rebellion 23The Shoe Box 60Country StoresIvanhoe Countrystore 15Domestic AppliancesBlatchs 78Contracool 86Contract & Domestic Services 90Ray Pittam Engineers 73Driving SchoolsBardon School of Motoring 20RDT School of Motoring 85ElectriciansA & J Bartlett Ltd 36Bright Sparks 51NAMS Electrical 64Estate AgentsJohn German 68EventsAshbeian Musical Theatre Group 56

Foxtail Lily 55Ivanhoe Way Challenge 8Venture Jazz Club 81Financial ServicesBleathwood 37Positive Solutions 10Regent Financial Management 45Food & GroceriesAshby Farmers Market 44Norths 28Pistern Hill Farm 79Scaddows Farm Shop 86Sweet Memory Lane 39FloristsLavish Wedding Flowers 28Funeral DirectorsA E Grice Funeral Directors 71Furniture Repairs & RestorationAncient & Modern 59Dr Sofa 95K Reynolds Upholstery 40GardenArtisan 51C P Gardening 17Charnwood Tree Services 39Eden Tree Care 19F G Gardens 40GDR Landscapes 25Green Thumb (Ashby) 93Mowing Places and Garden Care 16Roughly Refined Garden Service 85Stone Drives & Landscapes 46The Water Gardener 71Hair & BeautyArbonne 28Helen Shaw 28Rituals Retreat 48Sheelagh Powell 29Toxic Cherry 28Uruku 27HealthcareAshby Chiropody/Podiatry Clinic 101Ashby Dental 33Ashby Osteopathic Clinic 89Candor Care Ltd 77Dr Jin 11Future Minds 33Juliet Brooke Chiropody 36Postlethwaite Podiatry 21Prestige Nursing 38ProPhysio Ashby 82Solely for Feet 79Sue’s Support Service 65Traditional Acupuncture 71Vision Express 41IT Services3B Direct 8Ashby Web Design 47Home IT Services 21Jadex Solutions 59The PC Clinic 25Kitchens & BathroomsAshby Tile and Bathrooms 2 & 12Holme Tree 91Kingswood Design 99P A Hill Interiors 11Provencale Kitchens 59Swadlincote KBB 13Victory Kitchens 94LocksmithsHazlewood Locksmiths 73

Motor ServicesA D Car Cosmetics 101Castle Garage (Ashby) Ltd 61ChipsAway 72Music, Dance & DramaAshby Academy of Rock 86Charlotte Anne Pollard 33Heavenlyreds 40Joseph Southgate 85Painters & DecoratorsHolywell Painting & Decorating 25John Clark 99Pet ServicesAsh Farm Boarding Kennels 91Muttleys Dog Walking and Pet Care 61Muttz Cutz 36Pets Friend 29The Glenthorne Veterinary Group 103Wiffy Woofies 28Woodward Veterinary Practice 90Places of WorshipAshby Christadelphian Church 18PlasterersA C Ellison Plastering and Tiling 64Matt Charles Plastering Services 73TCL Plastering and Property Maint. 39Plumbers & Gas ServicesAdrian Dunstan Plumbing & Heating 65B I Plumbing 26Batemans Plumbing 16CCA Gas Plumbing 101James Pepper Property Solutions 83S D Hill (Plumbers) 7S J Bunker Plumbing & Heating 95Therm Heating 44Property Repairs & MaintenanceAbsolute Window Solutions 57Ashbyhandyman.co.uk 20Cloudy 2 Clear (Derby) 87D H Phillips (Flat Roofing) 40Handyman Maintenance 33James Beckett 11James Pepper Property Solutions 48Window Mate 16Pubs, Restaurants & Take AwaysBengal Spice 63George Inn 91La Spezia Pizzeria 94The Beeches 17The Blue Bell 65The Lyric Rooms 56The Vine 49Zamani's 53RecruitmentA & A Recruitment 17Removals and StorageChristians 25Schools and TuitionAlison Southward Tuition 95Catherine Brooke 64Kip McGrath 35Manor House School 8Ockbrook School 97Soft FurnishingsWendy's Courtyard Interiors 44SolicitorsCrane & Walton 100Simpson Jones Solicitors 96Sports & FitnessLaura Seager 83Pulse Performance Health & Fitness 80



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Ashby Life March 13

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