The Graphic Newbold Verdon & District

DECEMBER 2022

www.thegraphic.net

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Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year To all of our Readers & Advertisers from Dean & Nicky For the villages of Newbold Verdon | Desford | Barlestone | Newbold Heath | Kirkby Mallory | Peckleton | Botcheston

To advertise in The Graphic call 01455 292351

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Desford Christmas Festival Christmas has definitely started in Desford as the village celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Christmas Tree Festival with a weekend jam packed with festive fun. St Martin’s Church was once again full of trees all decorated according to this year’s theme of ‘Films’. Dozens of community groups, schools and residents were represented, and entries ranged from ‘Happy Feet’ to ‘James Bond’ to ‘The Lost King’. This incredible event has been organised and run by Pat Crane and Maggie Gaskell for the last 20 years. For so many residents of Desford, the Christmas Tree Festival marks the start of Christmas in their homes with lights and trees going up to coincide. To mark the milestone 20th year, the team from Desford Heritage joined forces with St. Martin’s to make it an extra special celebration. Desford Heritage put on a Christmas Market on the Church Green with plenty of shopping, food and drink to enjoy. There was also a magical Santa’s Workshop in the Church Centre where families could enjoy Christmas games, tombolas and, of course, meet the man himself in his magical grotto. There was a fantastic community atmosphere as people, shopped, drank mulled wine and enjoyed the live music from The Market Bosworth School, solo singers and the Syston and Ratby brass bands.

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Everyone involved with Our Library would like to wish all our customers and their families a very Happy Christmas. Thank you for supporting us through another year (it is hard to believe that it will be 7 years in January since we started to operate as a CommunityManaged Library). After the last few challenging years, hopefully 2023 will be an easier year for us all.

period during our usual opening hours. Anyone looking for somewhere warm will be most welcome, and we can offer complimentary hot drinks and activities, such as jigsaws, as well as conversation. Details are still being finalised, but will be publicised via Facebook and our website as well as in the Library. One thing we are considering is inviting donations of warm clothing that could be passed on to those who need them, so if you can help with this please get in touch.

Normal Opening hours: Monday 2pm – 6pm Tuesday 10am – 12 Noon Wednesday 2pm – 6pm Friday 10am – 12 Noon and 2pm - 4pm Saturday 10am – 1pm

This month we are also delighted to report that we have our first display of art works produced by pupils at Oakwood Rotary Santa Sleigh School. We plan to change the display Timetable regularly to demonstrate the abilities of Just a reminder that, the library will close the students. The initial display is based Desford Wednesday 7th at 4pm on 23rd December and reopen on around Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers”. Friday 16th Tuesday 3rd January at 10am. Finally, we are an entirely volunteer- Barlestone Work has begun on our tree for the run organisation, and without sufficient Thursday 15th Christmas Tree Festival being organised volunteers we simply can’t open – Newbold Verdon by the Baptist Church. All our regular something which has happened several Thursday 8th visitors (and those who aren’t) are times during this year. If you could Wednesday 21st invited to come to the library to help us help us, we would love to hear from make a memorable display – so please you – even an hour or two a month can For full details visit pop down when we are open and make make a big difference. Full training is www.marketbosworthrotary.org a tree decoration. provided. Visit the Library or contact We will also issue regular reminders us via Facebook, our website or email and updates on Facebook and will try Our Library will be operating as a secretary@ourlibraryatnewboldverdon. to keep you posted of Santa’s progress throughout each evening.  “Warm Space” throughout the Winter org.uk .

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£1000 Raised for Cancer Charity Bosworth Academy students, families and staff have raised over £1000 for a childhood cancer charity. In Septembe, Bosworth Academy students took part in the Gold Ribbon Run raising money for Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG) which was organised by Year 13 student Kiya K. A total of £1040.88 was raised and representatives from CCLG visited Bosworth Academy on Thursday 17 November to meet Kiya, and other Year 13 students who assisted in the fundraising, and receive a cheque to mark the achievement. Kiya was diagnosed 18 months ago with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, but is now in recovery and is overjoyed by the fundraising efforts: “It is amazing that I was able to pull this whole event together! I obviously couldn’t have done it without the Post 16 helpers and Senior Leader Mr Grest, who sorted all the logistics out.

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“I’m so grateful for the amount of people who donated to support me and the charity. It means the absolute world that we raised over £1000 for CCLG as they are such an amazing charity who helped me through my journey,” said Kiya. CCLG are a national cancer charity based in Leicester that have been funding research into childhood cancer

treatment for over 45 years and have raised over £15 million in the past six years. The charity also supports families through diagnosis and treatment. Kiya said that she will continue fundraising for cancer research: “I am hoping to do a couple more fundraising events for a couple different charities. Thank you everyone for the support that

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Barlestone Parish Council The members of the Parish Council have been working hard along with County Councillor Ross Hills to obtain funding for new speed activated digital signs for Barlestone. These will be sited at various locations around the village at selected times to monitor vehicles and the speed in which they are being driven and we must thank Cllr Liz Tegg and Cllr Julia Trinder-Oxley for their dedication to this work. Cllr Liz Tegg has now submitted the grant application to upgrade the Boardwalk in May Meadow with a recycled and sustainable replacement, we now await the outcome to see if this large grant application will be accepted. Quotations have been received for the work in support of the application as well as fantastic support from a number of residents. you have all shown me. It means so much!” Cllr Sara Louise Wallis has been involved with the RememBecky Charlton and Hannah Ortega from CCLG said they brance Day work alongside Mrs. Carmen Rahaman and the were extremely grateful for the contribution made: Clerk. The event was very well attended by the community “On behalf of everyone at CCLG, we wanted to say a huge which is lovely to see in a small village. thank you to Kiya and everyone at Bosworth Academy for Barlestone Parish Council wish all the residents a very Happy raising an incredible amount for vital research.” said Becky. Christmas and a peaceful New Year. The Christmas Tree for the village this year has been donated by Mr. Greg McCarthy to whom we are extremely grateful. To enquire about advertising in The Graphic For any queries please contact the Clerk email: clerk@ please call Dean on 01455 292351 barlestoneparishcouncil.gov.uk or visit www.thegraphic.net More details of the Parish Council can be found on our web for our rate card page.

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Sharon McCaffrey and Wendy Deacon presenting cheque to The Brownies

Margaret Proctor and Pam Cairns presenting cheque to The Scouts

Pam Ward presenting a cheque to Messy Church

Newbold Verdon Garden Club Cheque Presentations

Andy McGregor presenting cheque to Forest School

Newbold Verdon Open Garden event took place over the weekend of 9th and 10th July, when gardeners were invited to open their gardens to the public. All proceeds from the programme sales are donated to projects to enhance the village. After asking for nominations from the village, the Garden Club were proud to present cheques to the following initiatives: 1.The Baptist Church Hub which is open every Wednesday from 10am to 4pm and provides a warm space with free drinks and lunch and someone to talk to if needed. 2. The Guides and Rainbows 3. The Brownies 4. The Scouts 5. Messy Church, a regular Churches Together meeting for families 6. Forest school. To provide wet/cold weather gear as necessary for the children at Primary school during lesson time spent in the wild garden. The Newbold Verdon Garden Club meet at 7.30pm every 3rd Wednesday at the Newbold Verdon Social Club and everyone is very welcome. Look out for more details of the Gardening Club and the Open Gardens on their Facebook Group; Newbold Verdon Garden Club & Open Gardens.

Margaret Proctor presenting to the Baptist Church Hub.

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Barlestone School Children Remember

On the 11th November, Year 6 pupils from Barlestone Primary School walked to the wheel in the village, where Reverend Downs explained the significance of the wheel to the village of Barlestone and what the words that decorate it mean. They then went to the memorial to lay a wreath whilst Reverend Downs conducted a service of remembrance.

Botcheston Village Hall Film Night   

The King’s Man - Tuesday 13th December 7.30pm   Tickets on the door £5 including Tea or Coffee. The Lost King - Tuesday 10th January 2023   Ticketed events                Contact Lynda:  07751 581183  [email protected] Yoga, Keep-Fit, Well Being      Burns Night  - Saturday 28th January 2023

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Christmas at Leicester Animal think his age, and the fact he is a chunky warm, safe, well-fed and loved. There are boy, means he is getting overlooked by plenty of ways to donate that are easy Aid and How You Can Help people.

As you can see, we are busy getting ready for the festive season here at Leicester Animal Aid. Ralph, the 9-yearold Husky would love to find his furrever home in time for Christmas, and when Santa called in to see him recently, he promised to try and work his magic! Ralph has been with us since the Summer, he is a clever and talkative dog, but we

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Also, Cats like Malibu here, who is a shy and sensitive girl who came to us after having kittens, is also looking for a loving and responsible home but finding it is taking a bit longer than it should. We really hope to find them both homes soon but if they are still with us over the festive period, both Ralph and Malibu, and all the other animals in our care, will receive a gift. This is thanks to the generosity of the public who donate to our Christmas Appeal. Maybe you would like to help animals like Ralph and Malibu? Making a donation of just £6 will mean that each animal receives a gift, and you will also be helping the animals arriving in 2023 feel

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and quick including visiting our website or donating via our Facebook page. If you would like to help in other ways, perhaps you would like to visit our onsite Charity Shops, order some of our Christmas Cards or the 2023 Calendar online, or maybe even just like and share our posts on Facebook. You could also become a member and support us all year round. Whatever way you decide to help you can find information about us, our animals, and the work we do on our website. We wish you and your pets a very Happy Christmas and a safe, happy and prosperous 2023. Leicester Animal Aid is a  rescue and rehoming centre for dogs and cats.  Every year, we care for more than 300 dogs and cats who are lost, abandoned, neglected, unwanted or relinquished because their owners can no longer look after them. We rely on the generosity of people like you to keep our doors open to the hundreds of animals who need our help.  www.leicesteranimalaid.org.uk https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ LAAChristmasAppeal2022 www.facebook.com/leicesteranimalaid

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Botcheston W.I. Our meeting in November proved to be very popular – WINE TASTING with Ashley Hadfield. We felt that we had to open the meeting up to guests and a number of members brought husbands – this made for a lovely rendition of Jerusalem having some tenors joining in! We very quickly covered the business side of the meeting as we were all eager for the Wine Tasting to begin. Ashley began by giving a brief outline of her introduction to Wine Tasting starting at the tender ages of 18! The actual title of the talk was WINE –

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WHY PAY MORE. Ashley had selected a supermarket white wine and red wine and then selected a like for like more expensive version – Both the red and white wines caused a split decision – at the end of the day it is a personal choice. On Tuesday 6 December at 7.30p.m. there is the Forest Group Christmas Carol Service at the Kirby Muxloe Free Church, then on Friday 9 December there is a trip to Stratford Christmas Market. On Thursday 15 December we are having our Christmas Social Meeting at Botcheston Village Hall. Our January meeting will be on Thursday 26 January 2023 – speaker yet to be announced. Watch this space in January for further details. If you would like more information out Botcheston WI, or WI in general please contact our secretary on 01455 821228.

Support for Warm Places Joyce Crookes our local councillor very kindly presented the team at Café Jacques a cheque for £300. The donation is to help with “warm places” being  run by the three churches  to help with high energy costs, so that people can come along and meet other people and have a chat in a warm friendly place. 

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MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS FOR NEWBOLD VERDON WITH DESFORD AND PECKLETON & BARLESTONE

Cllr MARK BOOLS

Cllr JOYCE CROOKS

Cllr ROBIN WEBBER-JONES

Cllr BILL CROOKS

During this festive period we are here to help and support you and wish you all a restful and peaceful Christmas. CONTACT US [email protected] 01455 377969 [email protected] 07899 952241 [email protected] 01455 822027 [email protected] 01455 822027

Find us on Facebook: @CllrsNewbold 10

Printed by The Graphic, Wheatsheaf Courtyard, Market Pl, Market Bosworth, CV13 0LF, Published and Promoted by Hinckley and Bosworth Lib Dems, 26 Netherley Court, Hinckley. LE10 0RN

Your Local Borough Councillors

It is that time of year when many people are getting ready for Christmas. Trees and lights are going up and fun can be heard coming from schools, churches and pubs across our villages. At the time of writing, a wide range of festive events have taken place and we know we have lots more to attend before the big day itself. We hope you all have a safe and restful festive period as 2022 draws to a close. Cost of Living We continue to hear from residents who have deep concerns about the cost of living crisis. Many have expressed dismay at the rising food, heating and fuel prices with tough choices being made in many households we represent. To ensure those most in need have a warm place and to go to we have launched a Warm Space Grant for organisations providing a warm welcome this wintertime. Through the fund, organisations can apply for a grant that will help with the associated costs in providing a Warm Space Provision in the Borough of Hinckley & Bosworth for the benefit of local residents. We also continue to work with charities and community groups to support the work in food and clothing banks this Christmas. This work is vital to ensure the most in need are reached as we continue to see our budgets cut by Westminster.

Access to Dentists A number of residents have said that they cannot access an NHS dentist anywhere in the Borough and wider county. At the recent Scrutiny Commission meeting we were able to hear how the Westminster government is only making provision for 50% of people to have an NHS dentist. The only option many patients now have is to pay for private treatment, which at this time simply costs too much. As a council we continue to work with local dentists to ensure we identify practices that do have spaces and also guide people to other options when they are in need of treatment. Flooded Bridleway – Desford The Bridleway linking Desford and Peckleton has now re-opened. Frustratingly though, at the first sign of rain,it has now become impassable due to flooding. The footpath is the responsibility of the County Council and we hope they listen to the residents and other councils to ensure that any drainage works are carried out and the path remains accessible in all weathers. We have asked officers at the Borough Council to investigate why the flooding has occurred and what needs to be done to fix the problem. Enforcement officers will be monitoring the site and ensuring they stick to all agreed plans. Finally, we would like to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Joyce, Mark, Robin and Bill Facebook - @ CllrsNewbold Mark Bools 01455 377969 [email protected] Joyce Crooks 01455 822027 [email protected] Robin Webber-Jones 07899 952241 [email protected] Bill Crooks 1455 822027 [email protected]

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Barlestone Remembers

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We have a monthly meeting on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm Are you, a family member or someone you at the Newbold Verdon Sports & Social Wishing all our family Club. care for living with dementia? and friends a merry Christmas Why not come along and join us and others and happy new year. on a similar journey. Come for a cuppa, 21st December conversation, games, and activities in a Christmas celebration with Holly Judy and Stuart Hardy safe, friendly and supportive environment. Reynolds who will be joining us once again with an afternoon packed full of everyone’s (we will be making a donation to charity this festive favourites from the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s Newbold Verdon Library: year instead of sending cards) 10.30am -12.00pm, Judy Hardy 18th January 2023 1st Thursday of every month. ‘The Young Malcolm Sargent’ where Elohim Christian Church, Barlestone: Sam Dobson will tell the story of how a 1.30pm –3.00pm, boy of no particular advantage set the local 2nd Tuesday of every month. music scene alight in the post WWI years. For more information please contact: Original illustrations and plenty of music. Faye Clarke (Elohim Christian church) Tel: 01455 291022 / Email: info@ If you just want to give us a try - there is no elohimchurch.com charge for visitors who would like to see St. Martins Church Centre, Desford: what we have to offer before becoming 10.30am –12.00pm, members. 3rd Thursday of every month £3.50 per person (Carers FREE) John Coghlan (Local Area Coordinator) Tel: 07943 026977 Email: [email protected]

Leedham Farm Dairy Open 7 days a week 7am-7pm Fresh whole & semi-skimmed milk is available from our self-serve vending machine, simply buy a reusable glass bottle, or bring your own and re-use repeatedly to minimise plastic waste. DIY Milkshake bar, flavours change weekly. Our own 21-day matured Aberdeen Angus Beef & Cream are also available. Fosse Field Farm Free Range Eggs, Fresh Bread from Hambletons & Julia’s Bakery, Brockleby’s Pies, Manor Farm Yoghurts from Thrussington, a selection of Greenfields Meat from Twycross and much more!

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Churches’ Together In Newbold Verdon Wish you a Very Happy Christmas

Newbold Verdon Garden Club 

Our Garden Club met on November 16th.  We invited Griselda Kerr from The Dower House at Melbourne to show pictures  of her wonderful garden and to tell us how her inspiration grew from when  she first moved  there and how her knowledge and interest of  plants grew. The Garden Club have visited twice now, and we were all inspired by it. We will be visiting again, next June.  The setting is wonderful and is worth a visit.  She opens her garden for the NGS each summer! Our social evening is our next event on December 14th at The Windmill at 7pm Congratulations Carla on passing To start the New year our meeting is your Paramedic Degree. on January 18th.  ‘Called my Garden in We are so proud of you. Pictures’, it will be an evening  of sharing Love Grandma Jenny, our own garden pictures on the screen Grandad Garry and sharing  garden  knowledge with each Christmas is the Celebration of the and all the Newman family xxx other. I’m sure we will all learn from each Birth of Jesus, the Saviour of all people other. The Old School Hall If you would like to join our club or come We would like to invite you to the along as a visitor for £3.50.  Fee for the Church Road, Barlestone CV13 0EE Christmas Celebrations in our three year is £14. Open For Hire Churches: We meet at Newbold Sports and Social The hall is available for private hire:St James’ Parish Church Club Main Street at 7.30pm. There is a One off family occasions or Regular The Methodist Church raffle  and you can buy  drinks at the bar. Group bookings. Introductory offer for new The Baptist Church We would love to welcome new visitors or regular weekly bookings 1st Two Sessions members  Free To see all our activities over the Christmas More information from Pam 01455 822130 Contact Cathie Watkins (secretary) Season, turn to the Churches’ Page. You on 01455 292957 will be very welcome at any of them. or email [email protected]

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outside the Community Centre on Bosworth Road and inside Barlestone St Giles AFC.

New Community Defibrillator Ready to Help Save Lives on Barton Road, Osbaston

Cllr Martin Cartwright said “The installation of these public access defibrillators will ensure that people living in rural communities will have easy access to vital life-saving equipment that make a crucial difference in the minutes after a cardiac arrest. I hope that it is never needed, but thanks to a team of local volunteers it will be readily available to anyone facing a life-threatening emergency”. A training session run by the Community Heartbeat Trust will be held over Spring 2023 to introduce local residents to the equipment and how to use it correctly in the event of an emergency. For further information or if you are interested in attending, please contact the Parish Clerk at osbastonpc@ gmail.com.

A lifesaving community defibrillator has been successfully installed on Barton Road, Osbaston outside of the Dhiveya Convenience Store thanks to a grant given to Osbaston Parish Council by the Community and Parish Initiative Fund. Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council’s Executive Member for Rural Affairs Councillor Martin Cartwright was at the unveiling, alongside Chairman Councillor David Sanderson and Councillor Nicola Jepson. The devices, which deliver an electric current to restart the heart when someone is in cardiac arrest, have been specifically designed to be used by someone with no medical training. Each device has an in-built screen and speaker that gives the user simple step-by-step instructions to operate. The unit joins a network of defibrillators that are available in Barlestone at the Wheel at the Barton Road and Bosworth Road junction,

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Coffee morning at the Methodist Church Saturday 5th November, saw a hall full of happy villagers, enjoying bacon baps, tea coffee and cakes, while meeting friends old and new. This was our coffee morning, when, this month, as well as having jigsaws and books on sale, there were tables laden with children’s toys, books, puzzles and clothes, all available for donations. By the end of the morning, the tables were considerably depleted!

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Hinckley & District Parkinson’s Group There was a big response to the recent article in this magazine about Jeremy Paxman who has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Over the last few years so many celebrities have revealed that they have the disease. Knowing that well known personalities have the disease but still continue to have active lives, helps to create more understanding and acceptance of the disease. It becomes more visible and relatable, with people changing their attitudes towards the condition. It also brings hope and inspiration as those with Parkinson’s realise that celebrities are facing the same day-to-day difficulties but also remaining in the public spotlight. When a personality shows the world what it means to live with Parkinson’s, they offer a roadmap and inspire confidence for how others might do the same with Parkinson’s or indeed many other illnesses.

During the Christmas and New Year period the Hinckley Group, will continue to offer monthly meetings (December 11 and January 15), a monthly informal tea at the Stapleton Dobbies (December 19, January 16), weekly exercise, dance and singing sessions and (weather permitting!) monthly Nordic Walking on Burbage Common. For further information please contact Janet Kavanagh on 07932615233. For Nordic Walking call Peter on 01455 636776. So don’t let Parkinson’s dictate how you live your life, come along and join the Hinckley Group and see the benefits for yourself. Robert A. Leake

Newbold Verdon Jazz Club  Last month the jazz club welcomed New Orleans Bump to entertain us. They are a band with a slightly different set up having no trumpet player, but this did not stop them giving us a great evening of jazz. They played a good selection of standard classics but also many lesser-known tunes. Their leader, Dave Wood on reeds certainly kept the band on their toes and the interaction with the audience meant that a good evening was enjoyed by all.  On Friday 6th January we welcome The Savannah Jazz Band. The band has been coming to the club for more than 25 years, but this will be their last appearance due partly to the illness of the leader John Meehan. We hope that a lot of our jazz fans will come along and give them a good send off. The concert will take place at Newbold Verdon Social Club starting at 8.00pm. Admission is £10 payable on the door. The club has a lovely concert room and very reasonably priced drinks and snacks. Do tell your friends and come along and join us. For more information, please contact Kelvin on 01455 822824 or Pauline on 01162 865496 or see our website at newboldverdonjazz.wixsite.com.

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A Word from your Local MP Dr Luke Evans I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I hope the next year brings you and your loved ones nothing but prosperity and happiness. The past couple of Christmas’ have felt abnormal – to say the least – for us all, but I hope that many families and friends across our community can resume their normal celebrations and enjoy the festivities in each other’s company. As we prepare to welcome in 2023, I’ve been reflecting on the previous year. It’s

Peter Bedford - County Councillor

2022 has been a remarkable year filled with celebration with our late Queen marking her Platinum Jubilee, but also tinged with sadness at her passing in September. As I reflect on the year, I think about the amazing voluntary groups that have done so much to promote togetherness and a sense of community across our villages. Some highlights for me include: Markfield Easter Bonnet Competition At Easter a great time was had by all at the Markfield Easter Bonnet Competition. There were so many colourful and creative entries by the children - it was hard to pick a winner! I would like to thank the volunteers at Markfield Library for making this event such a success, particularly after what has been a difficult couple of years due to the pandemic. Desford Heritage Festival In July it was a great to attend Desford Heritage Festival, organised by Kate Twitchin, and learn much local history

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fair to say that this year has been a rather tumultuous one for the Government. But, as ever, the work of Government and Parliament continues. We’ve secured a large amount of funding to explore the prospect of reopening the Ivanhoe Line, which passes through our area. I’d like to see a train station open at Desford to make using local transport routes easier for people in our community. While this is a long way off yet, I’m frequently raising its potential benefits to our area with Network Rail and Transport Ministers. Last month the Chancellor laid out the Government’s national priorities for the coming months: stability, growth and public services. The Budget aims to protect the most vulnerable while being mindful of global inflation pressures and the need to restore economic stability. I was particularly pleased to see, after raising concerns both privately and publicly, the continued commitment to the Pensions Triple Lock. This uplift will mean an additional £870 per year to over 22,250 pensioners across Bosworth. Importantly, funding to public services will not fall. In fact, there’s an additional £4

billion for schools over the next two years and more than £13 billion over the next two years for the NHS and adult social care. An early Christmas present for us all was the announcement of £14 million of funding for a Testing Unit at Hinckley Hospital – bringing CT and MRI scans, blood testing and ultrasound capabilities to our area. Back to the budget: for the thousands of businesses in our area there is a freeze to the Business Rates multiplier, numerous schemes and a 75% relief for hospitality businesses worth up to £110,000. I know that across Hinckley and Bosworth we’re all big fans of our many great pubs and cafes, like the Black Horse, Liberteas and Windmill (to name a few!), and these are exactly the types of businesses that this support will help through the coming months. I know, after speaking with families and businesses across Bosworth, that these are welcome measures. Please reach out to me via [email protected] if there’s anything I can help with. I wish you the very best for the festive period and look forward to sharing more updates with you next year!

of the village. I know that the heritage boards have been a much-valued addition to the village. Scarecrow Festival In August it was a pleasure to judge a category at Desford Scarecrow Festival, and join Deputy Lieutenant Alison Smith to present ‘The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Community & Business Award’ to Laura Carr and volunteers. I know this festival goes from strength to strength every year!

Peckleton Lane Desford, and Ashby Road and London Road Markfield. The ‘Desford Bomber’ During the year, working with County Council colleagues and the charitable sector, I was able to secure the long-term future of the Reid and Sigrist ‘Desford Bomber’. This important piece of our local history will be preserved and available to visit at the Newark Air Museum. I have arranged for representatives of Desford Parish Council to join me for a visit in January and I know there are plans to organise a broader visit by local historical and community groups in the new year. Household Support Fund This dedicated fund will be used to provide support to third party organisations, support for families with food and fuel vouchers, and provide food vouchers to those children in receipt of free school meals during the school holidays. Further information on this fund can be found: https://resources.leicestershire. gov.uk/adult-social-care-and-health/ care-referrals/household-support-fund or by emailing: householdsupportfund@ leics.gov.uk Finally, I would like to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Peter [email protected] 01455 824733 FB/Twitter: @peterbedfordmdt

Member Highways Fund In the year I continued to work with Parish Councils, and residents, to take forwards schemes under the LCC Members Highways Fund. We have had success in getting Mobile Vehicle Activated Speed (MVAS) signs in Markfield and Desford, with a unit due to be installed in Stanton under Bardon shortly, and some support for Bagworth & Thornton with illegal parking around the reservoir and primary school. I continue to work with residents to progress schemes for key speeding hotspots such as Lindridge Lane and

Ross Hills - County Councillor Dear resident,  This being my final column in the Graphic in 2022 means its December and so Christmas! Christmas lights switch on It has been a real delight attending the turning on of village Christmas lights in each of our local villages. In Barwell, my nephew and I were even able to nab a selfie with Spiderman and Elsa. Thanks as always go to local parish councils who generously give up their time to organise these events.  Gigahubs - Superfast rural broadband Living in a rural area certainly has its perks, but one downside is slower internet, something which has been raised as an issue by several residents. Good news therefore to hear that Leicestershire will become the first county in the country to roll out ‘Gigahubs’, an innovative

Ross Hills CC

project delivering lightning-fast internet speeds in hard-to-reach areas, backed by £1.55million of government money. In our patch Barlestone and Newbold Verdon will have gigahubs installed, making it much much easier for local residents to switch to the fastest internet currently available in the UK.  Desford Peckleton Bridlepath opening... and flooding My excitement at walking the bridelpath between Desford and Peckleton with Cllr. Peter Bedford on its official community reopening was short lived after I received reports that it has well and truly flooded following the recent rain. I have raised this with the council and it is being investigated to ensure the path is more weather resistant in the future.  Winter road preparation Thank you to everyone who has been in touch to highlight winter highway problem hotspots. This year I’ve been running a spring clean (winter clean?) of the division in advance of the wet weather which has resulted in a number of potholes being filled, drains flushed, debris cleared, paths tidied etc. In addition to this LCC’s 23 gritters are ready to hit the road with a stockpile of 16,500 tonnes of grit covering Leicestershire’s 1300 miles of highways. Do continue to send in areas that needs work. Here’s to a well deserved Christmas break

James Paterson

Dr Luke Evans MP

for us all, then back to work in 2023. As always, if you are in need of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.  Cllr. Ross Hills [email protected] 07805339791 facebook.com/councillorrosshills

Newbold Verdon W.I. Our ACM was held on Monday 14th November. The current committee continued in office. Barbara stood down as Treasurer and Anne took over this function. We enjoyed a fish and chip supper which was followed by the business of the evening, reports and thanks. Carolyn continued as President and gave the annual report. Barbara was presented with a lovely tub of winter flowers the thank her for her long service as Treasurer. The next meeting will be on 12 December at 7.30pm in the Methodist Church Hall when we will have a flower demonstration. New members always welcome.

Peter Bedford CC

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Barlestone Baptist Church

Newbold Verdon Messy Church 2nd Sunday of the month from 3:00pm – 5:00pm, Based in St. James church hall on Main Street in Newbold Verdon. Aimed at families who can come to spend time together with crafts, games, stories and songs all based around a monthly  Christian theme. We finish with a shared meal and fellowship. 

Desford Free Church

You are all welcome to join any of our December services and activities. Mid-week the 11th – 4pm entrance is round the right side of the Carols by Candlelight church. 18th - 10.30am Rev Jim Mullin Wednesdays at 10am-12pm 25th – 10.30am Coffee morning Christmas Morning Service 1.30pm to 3pm Short service of carols and readings Renew Wellbeing – bring something to do and/or join in with what is on offer Food Bank Open 10am to 4pm 11.15-1.15 We are providing somewhere warm for Every Wednesday anyone who would like to come during the wintertime Community Café Sundays 10.30am Our morning service 6pm Online worship on zoom – the link is on our website and Facebook page Christmas Day 10am Christmas morning service, no evening service New Year’s Day 10.30am as usual, no evening service

Mon - Fri 10-12 Wed 10-10.45

St Giles Church, Barlestone

11th December 10am Communion 18th December 5pm We have only been running since Carol’s by Candlelight September but are having an average www.barlestonebaptistchurch.org.uk 24th December 5pm attendance of 38 and the feedback from Pastor – Liz Connelly Christingle those attending has been terrific. 07970 590678 25th December 10.30am Our December church is on Sunday 11th or [email protected] Joint service at Baptist Chapel December and will be our Christmas 1st January 10.30am meet, and the January meeting is on Please get in touch if you would like a Joint service at the Baptist Chapel. Sunday 8th January. pastoral visit, chat and/or prayer. For more information please call 01455 Have a wonderful and blessed Christmas 290195

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Newbold Verdon Baptist Church Sunday Worship – 10.30am December 11th Pastor Pravin Please Note: Candlelight Carol Service: Saturday 17th December 4.00pm Followed by drinks & mince pies December 18th No Service. Christmas Day – 10.30am Joining with the Methodist Church. January 1st Pastor Pravin 10.30am The Community Hub Every Wednesday 10am – 4pm A WARM SPACE Coffee/Tea biscuits Light Lunch Tea & Cake Afternoon activities: Simple craft Jigsaws. Table games. Call in anytime for as long or as short a time as you like. No charges donation boxes available Wreath Making 13th December 6pm £10 Ring Barry for availability of space (821909)

25 10.30am Christmas Eucharist (if priest is available) or Morning Worship (if no priest) January 1 Christmas 1 10.30am Morning Worship We still have weekday services on zoom Monday 9am Morning Prayer Wednesday 8pm Compline Both on Number 999 960 1467 + 447591

Newbold Verdon Methodist Church Nativity 10:30am Sunday December 11th Led by the Junior Church but it’s for all ages! Carol Service 6pm on Sunday December 18th Stay afterwards for hot drinks Christmas Eve Service of Holy Communion at 4:30pm Christmas Day Morning Service at 10:30am All very welcome

What’s on? Why not join us every Sunday morning from 10:30am We have something for all ages - we would love to see you! Little Acorns for Pre-School age Superstars for ages Foundation to 10 years Identified Youth for ages 11 – 16 years Sunday from 10:30am Or view online YouTube: http://tiny.cc/ ECCYouTube What’s on during the Week? Hub Café Every Tuesday morning from 10am to 12 noon Litebite Every Friday from 12 noon till 1pm - Soup and a Roll, Pudding and a Hot Drink Ukrainian Families and their Hosts A Coffee & Cake Evening Thursday 8th

and 22nd December

Emergency Food Pantry If you or someone you know is struggling, we can provide basic food support

Christmas Tree Festival December 16th – 18th Shoebox Appeal Trees from village organisations as well as – Operation Christmas Child Need more information? Contact us at the church We had a great collection and the Elohim Christian Church Times open for viewing: shoeboxes have been taken to the Living Newbold Road, Barlestone, CV13 0DZ Friday 16th 10am – 5pm Rock Church where they will continue 01455 291022 [email protected] Saturday 17th 10am – 4pm on their way to children in many parts of www.facebook.com/ Carol Service 4pm the world. Thank you to everyone who ElohimChristianChurch Sunday 18th 10am – 2pm supported this. Please contact us via messenger Other Activities: Warm And Cosy? Mondays Starting on Thursday December 8th Keep Fit 19th December 10:30 – 2:30 (then no more until end of Jan. We are open for anyone to come along to due to church being decorated} sit in the warm, charge your phone, have u3a Quiz Group December12th 10am a chat and a cuppa, enjoy some soup and Steady Steps: 12.30-2.00pm toast and enjoy time together. Choir 7.00pm Open every Thursday until the weather Tuesday 6th December: gets too warm to sit inside! Cooking in the Community 10am

Warm Welcome Barlestone:

For any more information contact Lay Pastor: [email protected] Mobile: 07843 051921 Secretary: [email protected] Mobile: 07443 636352

St James’s Church, Newbold Verdon Sunday Services December 11 Advent 3 10.30am Morning Worship 8 Advent 4 10.30am Morning Worship 6pm Carol Service 24 Christmas Eve 4pm Christingle

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Worried about your heating this winter Coffee Morning 2023 and looking for a warm place to go? Saturday January 7th 10am – 12 noon Find a warm welcome, hot drinks & A very warm welcome to start the year with hot drinks, teacakes, lovely home- company this Autumn & Winter at the following places: made cakes and a stall or two Monday and Tuesday Just pop in or stay for the morning 10am - 2pm Elohim Christian Church Need help from the Foodbank? Wednesday Ring 01455 697390 for advice and 10am - 4pm Barlestone Baptist Church information Thursday If you have items to give to the food bank 10am - 2pm Elohim Christian Church … Bring them to church or to the Co-op Friday on Main Street 9:30am - 12pm Elohim Christian Church 12pm - 2 pm Litebite Lunch @ E.C.C. Our Minister is REV DAVE HASELDINE For more information contact: 01455 846335 Elohim Christian Church, Barlestone Our Community Pastor is MALCOLM Tel: 01455 291022 Text: 07894 540847 LAPPER 01455 843130 Email: [email protected]

The Graphic Directory of Local Traders AERIALS AND SATELLITES Carl’s Aerials, Satellite & CCTV - Sky, Multi Room, Tel, B/Band Extensions, Yale Home Alarms 01455 822017 or 07968 953210 BUILDING SERVICES Mark Boonham General Builders All Types of building Work 01455 291886 / 07743 043612 SP Brotherhood Extensions and all aspect of building work 07810 274940 or 01455 292964 ID Costello All aspects of building work inc wall & floor tiling 07717 043883 / 01530 451586 Paynes Builders Ltd Estabished 1910 All work carried out by time served tradesmen Telephone 01455 291200 or 07973 698296 Scott Construction Extensions - New Builds - Renovations Brickwork & Stonework. Cadeby 07891 645707 CARPENTRY & JOINERY Andrew Calcut - For anything in timber from a kitchen to made to measure windows & doors etc Tel: 01455 245509 or 07773 153922 Derek Whitfield For all your joinery requirements 01455 846108 / 07920 475385 JLR Joinery Providing quality carpentry & joinery 07977 156227 / 01455 822068 CARPET, VINYLS & FLOORING J.B. Carpets and Flooring 2 Arnolds Crescent, Newbold Verdon LE9 9LD or telephone for shop at home service 01455 828300 / 07889 220500 National Carpets & Flooring (NCF) 68 Main Street, Newbold Verdon, LE9 9NP www.ncandf.co.uk Tel: 01455 856713 CHIMNEY SWEEPS Ibstock Chimney Sweep 27 years experience Open Fires, Log Burners, Boilers etc. latest most modern brushes Tel: 01530 262221 COMPUTER SERVICES Barlestone Computers - PC/Laptop Upgrades & Repairs / Anti-Virus / Beginners Training Tel: Mark on 07929 231372 CFS Computers PC & Laptops repairs and upgrades 01530 231971 / 07815 810691 DOMESTIC SERVICES Beni’s Domestic Cleaning Services References available on request Telephone 07821 591346 Dolly Tubs Professional Cleaning Service 01455 610677 / 07940 431419 Hate Ironing? Basket to Hanger Ironing Service Telephone or text 07810861501

So Clean - General Domestic Cleaning Vicki 07931 195461 ELECTRICIAN Parkinson Electrical Services - Insp & Test, Consumer Units, Rewires and Installation Telephone 07855 593091 or 01455 291419 ESTATE / LETTING AGENTS Howland Jones Letting Agents Your Local Independent Estate Agent Tel: 01455 842188 www.howlandjones.com

FLORIST Blooming Creative Florist . for all occasions 40 High Street, Desford Tel: 0748 6312683 FB & Insta ‘Blooming Creative Florist’ GARDEN SERVICES Clara’s HG Services Garden Design & Maintenance and Home DIY Telephone 07946 397212 Flowers & Fields - Professional Garden Services Tel: 01455 243643 www.flowersandfields.com [email protected] Greener Gardens For all types of garden maintenance 07729 381827 / 01455 291069 HAIR AND BEAUTY Hidden Beauty The Wheatsheaf Courtyard, Market Bosworth www.hiddenbeauty.salon Tel: 01455 290393 HANDYMAN SERVICES Handyman - Newbold Any works considered from roof to ground level inside or out, Call Anthony on 07394 955272 KITCHENS & BATHROOMS Decor Kitchens & Bathrooms - We create Beautiful rooms. Showroom in Hugglescote, watch our video at www.decor1988.com LOCKSMITHS GB Locksmiths & Installations Ltd (24hr) All types of locks fitted/repaired. Upvc door/ window repairs 01455 449377 or 07896 000621 LOGS / FIREWOOD / KINDLING Ambion Firewood Supplies Kiln Dried or Seasoned English Hardwood Kindling Tel: 01455 291010 or 07969 189628 PAINTING & DECORATING St Vincent’s Decorators City & Guilds Qualified Painter & Decorator Telephone 01530 813219 / 07590 477478

PET CARE Ambion Veterinary Centre 23 Heath Road, Market Bosworth Tel: 01455 292928 Bland on the Run - Dog walking / running, pet sitting, home visits, cage cleaning, housekeeping and housework. Telephone 07707 685 142 Hounds 2 Hooves Market Bosworth Dog Walking, Horse and Pet Care service. www.hounds2hooves.co.uk Tel: 07825 223474 Kings Hill Cremations Caring for you and your pet Tel: 01455 212021 / 07939 518506 PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES A&T Heating & Plumbing Services Plumbing, Gas/Oil Central Heating Tel: 01455 843352 / 07916 293049 KS Plumbing - Plumbing & Tiling From washers to wet rooms, taps to tubs 20 years experience Telephone 07849 265986 PRINTING & COPYING The Graphic Print - Market Bosworth www.thegraphicprint.co.uk 01455 292351 REMOVALS & COURIER SERVICES Man & Van - Domestic and Commercial Removals and Same Day Courier Service Tel: 01164 625613 or 07979 745083 STEEL WORK Kirk Developments Wrought Iron Gates, Railings & Structural steel work Tel: 07973 188232 TAXI’S / PRIVATE HIRE All Airports and local journeys Tel: 07958 441238 - 01455 327030 TILING - WALL & FLOOR AJB Ceramics - EST 2004 Hard Floor Cleaning & Restoration ajbceramics.co.uk Free Demo call 07838155153 TREE SURGERY Silvan Tree Specialists Limited Tree Surgery & Ground Maintenance Telephone: 01530 610507 / 07970 950129 VEHICLE VALETING Vision Valeting Professional Car & Commercial Valeting 01455 290167 or 07958 536654 WINDOWS-DOORS-CONSERVATORIES Signature Windows Doors & Conservatories Supply - Fitting and Repairs Ian Wallace: 07810 601401 or 01455 824317

To list your business in the Graphic Directories for £10 per month call Dean or Nicky on 01455 292351 23

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