Sainsbury’s opens at The Crescent
SAINSBURY’S has officially opened at the Crescent Hinckley, marking the first phase of
the new £60 million Crescent development.
The new 107,000 sq ft store – Sainsbury’s 600th UK supermarket – is the first of several
national names to open at the scheme, which will also include a Cineworld, TK Maxx,
Costa Coffee, Prezzo, Simply Gym, Poundland and other local operators.
The Crescent Hinckley has been developed by the Tin Hat Partnership and is one of only
five new town centre shopping developments to open in the UK in 2015.
Tony Baker, of the Tin Hat Partnership, said: “We are delighted to see Sainsbury’s up and
running. It was a great show of faith in the scheme and in Hinckley to have them as our
anchor tenant.
“We’ve also attracted some other major retail and restaurant names to the Crescent
Hinckley and we are in positive talks with several other interested parties. It’s going to be
a great scheme.”
Cllr Mike Hall, Leader of the Borough Council, said: “I am pleased to see Sainsbury’s open
for business in the town well in time for the busy Christmas period.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the rest of the Crescent’s new retail and restaurant outlets
and the soon to be opened Cineworld attracting lots of new visitors to the town to see
everything that Hinckley has to offer.”
John Davies, Sainsbury’s Hinckley store manager, added: “We think we’ve got great
products to offer – from a wide range of food and drinks, to clothing, as well as our café.
We’ve got 220 colleagues, 200 of which are from the local area.
“We’ve had a very warm welcome from the people of Hinckley and we’re looking forward
to becoming part of the community here.”
Bowmer & Kirkland is the main contractor on the scheme. Strutt & Parker are the agents.
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Thousands expected at Hinckley lights switch-on
THOUSANDS of people are expected to visit Hinckley town centre to see the town’s
spectacular Christmas lights switched on.
This year’s event on Friday 20 November is being sponsored by the Tesco Hinckley store
on Hawley Road, with the lights due to be switched on at 6.30pm by Santa and the Mayor
of the Borough, Councillor Janice Richards, assisted by Cinderella, Buttons and the Fairy
Godmother from the Concordia Theatre’s pantomime.
The switch-on, which will also involve representatives from the Hinckley Ex-Servicemen’s
Association and the Royal British Legion, will be followed by a fantastic firework display
over St Mary’s Church, sponsored by the Borough Council, the Showman’s Guild and the
Tesco Hinckley store.
The festivities will get underway at 4pm with a full programme of entertainment taking
place on stage in the Market Place. The programme will include performances from North
Warwickshire and Hinckley College’s drama academy, Sketchley Hill Primary School and
the Vicky Ann Dance Academy.
Also taking part will be Leicester’s pop and rock artist, James Plimmer. He will be
performing at 14 Christmas Lights switch-ons around Leicestershire whilst working with
‘Loubobs Legacy’ to help raise funds for their cause. His new Christmas charity single “A
Christmas Without You” can be downloaded from over 70 online stores including iTunes
and Amazon Music.
In addition to the entertainment in the Market Place, town centre shops will be open and a
special Christmas market will be held to provide the crowds with an opportunity to do
some timely Christmas shopping.
Among those open on the night will be: Age UK, Select Fashion, Marmalade Meringue,
Dunelm, The Fragrance Shop, British Heart Foundation, The Works, Johnsons Lingerie
and Ladieswear, Air Ambulance, Wilkinson’s, Clarks, The Art Café, 75 Barber Shop,
Specsavers, CeX Hinckley, Emmaus La Boutique, Phillip James Menswear and the Mary
Ann Evans Hospice.
Meanwhile, children will get a chance to see live reindeer and meet Santa in his grotto,
which will be located at the top of Castle Street near the Hinckley and Rugby Building
Society offices.
A free Christmas crafts workshop for children will also be taking place at the United
Reformed Church as part of the event. Families are invited to drop in between 5.30pm and
7.30pm to make a range of Christmas crafts to take home.
The lights switch-on will coincide with the staging of the traditional Tin Hat Fair in Regent
Street. The fair will be open from 4pm until 10.30pm on Friday and from 11am to 9pm on
Saturday.
All relevant road closure information will be detailed on the Hinckley and Bosworth
Borough Council website.
Council Leader Mike Hall said: “The Christmas lights switch-on is one of the most popular
events of the year, where people can enjoy Hinckley’s opening festive event, the
fireworks, the Tin Hat Fair, and take advantage of shops being open till late.
“It sends a signal that Christmas is not far away, and I know that the people who come
along can expect to have a happy and safe time celebrating with family and friends.”
Sean O’Mara, the Tesco Hinckley Store Manager, added: “The Christmas lights switch-on
is a fantastic event for local residents and we are really excited to be a part of it.
“We are looking forward to going along to the event and we hope visitors will stop by our
stall to meet store colleagues and to try a selection of our Christmas treats.”
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Free parking in town this Christmas
SHOPPING in Hinckley will be given a further big boost this Christmas with the
introduction of free parking in the town during December.
From 1 December right through to Christmas Eve, the “Free From Three” scheme will
enable shoppers to park for free in any of the Borough Council’s town centre car parks
from 3pm every day.
The scheme has been developed and agreed by the Borough Council and the Hinckley
BID to build on the buzz created by the opening of the first stage of the multi-million
Crescent development and encourage more people to “stop and shop” in Hinckley this
Christmas.
Councillor Chris Ladkin, the council’s Executive Member responsible for Town Centres,
said: “I am very pleased that from 1 December through to Christmas Eve all our car parks
in Hinckley town centre will be free to customers from 3.00pm each day.
“This Christmas will be a watershed for Hinckley town centre. In addition to the excellent
retail and food and drink offerings in our town centre we now have the large Sainsbury’s
supermarket open and our cinema to open in three weeks. In the New Year there will be
additional retail shops in the Crescent plus a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and bars.
“By the spring, Hinckley will have become a far more attractive destination not only for our
daytime and night-time customers but also the many sports users at the new leisure
centre in Argents Mead.”
Jonathan White, Hinckley BID’s Business Development Manager said: “We are grateful to
the Borough Council for once again supporting the BID and it members with this free car
parking offer and hope that it will encourage more local people to shop locally this
Christmas.”
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Park voted one of UK’s best
HINCKLEY’S Hollycroft Park has been chosen as one of the nation’s best parks.
It came 16th in a nationwide poll that was held to find the people’s favourite park from
more than 1,500 of the country’s best green spaces, which were all winners of this year’s
Green Flag award, and is the highest ranking park in the East Midlands.
A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to visitors that a park boasts the highest possible
standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.
Councillor Mark Nickerson, the Borough Council’s Executive Member responsible for
Neighbourhood Services, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Hollycroft Park has come
so highly in the people’s choice award.
“It is a fantastic achievement for a park in a town of this size to be able to compete with
some of the largest parks in the largest cities in the country, and it is a credit to all the hard
work of the Green Spaces team and the Friends of Hollycroft Park group. Well done to
everyone.”
Dawn Jeffrey, Chair of the Hollycroft Friends group, added: “We are really proud of our
park, and everyone associated with its management.
“A lot of effort goes into gaining a Green Flag award and now to be recognised as one of
the top 20 parks in the country is fantastic.”
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Council homes to benefit from solar panels
HUNDREDS of council homes around Hinckley and Bosworth are being installed with
solar panels, saving tenants money and slashing carbon footprints.
However, not all council houses are suitable as the solar panels need to be fitted to
properties with strong roof structures facing south to south-east and with a good means of
access.
Although an installer has been appointed, the council will be responsible for arranging the
fitting and installation of the solar panels. This should be organised with as little disruption
as possible as it is easy to fit a small domestic solar installation in three hours.
Households that receive the solar panels will benefit because the cells convert the sunlight
into electricity, which can be used to run household appliances and lighting; saving
tenants money by providing free electricity.
Bill Cullen, Borough Council Deputy Chief Executive, said: “This is a positive initiative that
will benefit many tenants by bringing them savings on energy costs.”
Tenants, who are eligible, will be contacted shortly.
New plan to guide regeneration
A NEW plan that will guide the continuing regeneration of Hinckley town centre is now
being drawn up by the Borough Council.
It sets out the council’s renewed vision for the town centre, following the success of its
predecessor, the Hinckley Town Centre Renaissance Masterplan.
The masterplan led to a series of multi-million pound town centre re-development
schemes, which will culminate next spring with the official opening of both The Crescent a major £60m shopping and leisure scheme; and Hinckley’s new £15m leisure centre.
The new plan will see the council working with partners to build on this success, whilst
broadening the scope to other town and key village centres at Market Bosworth, Barwell
and Earl Shilton.
It will initially concentrate on producing development and design briefs for key sites and
using compulsory purchase powers to acquire the sites, if necessary.
Among the key sites that the council wants to promote for regeneration and
redevelopment are:
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Leisure centre, Trinity Lane, Hinckley
Britannia Centre, Hinckley
Former depot site, Middlefield Lane, Hinckley
Cultural Quarter – site at Holliers Walk/New Buildings, Hinckley
Former Top Range Motors site, Stapleton Lane, Barwell
Public realm improvements in Earl Shilton
Improved car parking for Market Bosworth
Improved access from water park/marina to Market Bosworth centre
The council will also be looking to submit a first round Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI)
bid by summer 2016 and putting forward Hinckley town centre as a future Enterprise
Zone.
Council Leader Mike Hall said: “The document has two important messages. Firstly that it
now includes town centres other than Hinckley that will be targeted for further
regeneration.
"Secondly that we still see further regeneration of Hinckley as important to build on the
completed parts of the masterplan development.”
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Holiday closing times
Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council’s offices at The Hub, Hinckley will be closed on:
Thursday 24 (from 12noon), Friday 25 and Monday 28 December and Friday 1 January
2016.
Outdoor gym installed at town park
AN OUTDOOR gym has just been installed in Richmond Park by the Borough Council,
offering free access to fitness equipment to people of all ages and abilities.
The outdoor gym is similar to a conventional indoor gym but the eight pieces of equipment
have been specially designed for use outdoors. It is free to use, accessible in all weather
conditions and suitable for use by anyone over 14 regardless of their fitness level, age or
ability. Each piece of equipment offers a range of exercises, allowing the user to workout
at their own pace.
Outdoor gym facilities have become popular throughout the country over the last few
years allowing people of different ages and mobility levels to get active and engage in
physical exercise in an outdoor setting. Another outdoor gym is currently being installed in
Queens Park, Hinckley.
Councillor Mark Nickerson the Borough Council’s Executive Member for Neighbourhood
Services said “We are pleased to be able to offer this equipment on two of our parks in
Hinckley and hope that it will be widely used as a way of helping to contribute towards a
healthy lifestyle.”
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Golden celebrations for Bosworth in Bloom team
BOSWORTH in Bloom volunteers are celebrating after winning a Gold RHS Medal in the
Champion of Champions contest held as part of this year’s Britain in Bloom competition.
The accolade from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) followed the award of another
gold medal by the East Midlands in Bloom judges as part of the regional contest which the
town also entered this summer.
Bosworth in Bloom chairman Chris Hooker said: “The town has a fine record in the Britain
in Bloom competition having won the national title in 2006, 2010 and 2014 so you can see
that the competition is very fierce and the standards expected by the judges are very high.
For us to win a gold medal is a tremendous achievement.
“What is also worth mentioning is that Market Bosworth is probably one of the smallest
communities in the competition but we have outscored some of the larger towns and
cities. Thanks to the work of the Bosworth in Bloom team the good name of Market
Bosworth has been upheld in this prestigious competition.”
Bosworth in Bloom co-ordinators are now waiting to hear if they will be selected to
represent the East Midlands in the national large village category in the 2016 Britain in
Bloom competition.
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Success for Earl Shilton too
EARL SHILTON in Bloom organisers are celebrating after the town won a Silver Gilt
award in this year’s RHS East Midlands in Bloom competition.
The judges praised the huge impact that the displays of planters, hanging baskets, eyecatching floral bus stop and innovative herb bedroom, boot and vintage bike scenes had
on the town.
They were so impressed that they also presented Earl Shilton with a special cut glass
trophy for the most improved entrant in all categories, for the whole of the East Midlands.
In addition, Chris’s Fish and Chip Shop on West Street in the town received a Gold award
for the best retail/commercial premises in the East Midlands. Liz Kyriacou was praised for
maintaining the stunning and eye-catching chip shop garden and also received the Judges
Award for her tremendous work.
The Mayor, and Earl Shilton ward councillor, Janice Richards said: “The hard working
volunteers are thrilled with the results. This is a huge boost for the town of Earl Shilton.
“If you haven’t visited for a while please come and see our lovely high street with its great
range of independent shops selling everything from unique gifts to vintage clothes and
furniture. There are cafes, tea rooms and an excellent range of restaurants too.”
The work of the Earl Shilton in Bloom organisers carries on with winter planting of bulbs
and pansies in the larger planters, along with fund-raising for next year’s plants.
They have stalls at the town’s Christmas Lights switch-on on Friday 27 November and a
bag pack is planned at the local Co-op on Saturday 12 December from 10am to 4pm.
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Tom Eatough Court also entered into the spirit of the competition with all the
residents putting their hearts and souls into their gardens, earning a visit from the
judges.
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RSPCA Gold Footprint award for council
FOR the fourth year running a prestigious Gold Footprint award has been given to the
Borough Council by the RSPCA for its work with stray dogs.
The award recognises local authorities which have clear procedures in place to ensure
both the welfare of stray dogs and a consistency of service. The work of the dog warden
service at Hinckley and Bosworth was awarded the gold award, the highest possible.
As well as recognising the day-to-day work of the dog warden service in collecting stray
dogs and ensuring they are either reclaimed by their owners or re-homed, the award also
recognises the dog warden’s educational and preventative campaigns, which are
designed to reduce straying in the first instance, such as microchipping and neutering.
The award also recognises the high quality animal welfare advice and support the dog
warden service provides to borough residents.
Councillor Kevin Morrell, Executive Member responsible for the Environment, said: “This
award is continued recognition from a highly-respected national charity which prides itself
on its promotion of animal welfare.
“It demonstrates the council’s positive impact on protecting the people of Hinckley and
Bosworth from the risks associated with stray dogs, while at the same time protecting the
welfare of the animal.”
Don’t forget to microchip
Meanwhile the campaign to encourage all dog owners to microchip their pets before the
law makes it compulsory from April next year continues.
A microchip is a small electronic device, which is the size of a grain of rice. The Dog
Warden implants the chip under the skin using a special implant gun, with the minimum of
discomfort.
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Most responsible dog owners have already had their dog chipped and so those
who have yet to chip their dogs are invited to contact the Dog Warden (on 01455
255946), who will microchip their dog at a cost of £12 for a home visit.
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New roof for the ’Stute
THE much-loved Earl Shilton ‘Stute has been restored and re-opened, thanks in part to a
grant from the Parish and Community Initiative Fund (PCIF).
The community facility in Station Road was re-roofed and made watertight again after
receiving an Inspired Facilities grant of £44,000 from Sport England and an award of
£4,000 from the Borough Council’s PCIF fund, together with additional support from Earl
Shilton Town Council.
Although fund-raising is continuing as more work needs to be carried out, there are plenty
of activities now taking place.
They include: children’s dance sessions, ju jitsu for adults and juniors, snooker, pool,
holiday play activities, and various exercise sessions including ones especially tailored for
the over 50s and 60s.
Councillor Kevin Morrell, the Borough Council’s Executive Member responsible for Rural
Issues and the Environment, said: “I was pleased that the Borough Council was able to
contribute towards the cost of renovating this roof through the Parish and Community
Initiative Fund.
“The Stute is a much-loved community facility that will benefit the whole village.
“Well done to everyone who worked so hard to obtain funding.”
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For more information call Julia Pittham on 01455 457696 or email: julia.
pittham@ntlworld.com.
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Community grants up for grabs
COMMUNITY groups in parishes across the Borough are being encouraged to apply for
their share of the Borough Council’s Parish and Community Initiative Fund before
applications close on 5 February 2016.
Grants totalling £100,000 per year are awarded to support community projects in the
parished areas of the borough.
These grants fund a wide variety of projects such as play areas, community buildings, new
pathways, heritage trails, and sports facilities.
Grants for 2016/17 will be provided on the following basis:
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Projects must be within a parished area of the borough
Maximum of £10,000 per parish area
Maximum of £10,000 per project
Maximum of 50 per cent of total project costs funded
All works must be completed within the financial year
Projects must demonstrate that they meet the council’s corporate aims and that
they are of community benefit
Councillor Kevin Morrell, the Executive Member responsible for Rural Communities and
Environment, said: “As in previous years I would like to see these grants spread as wide
as possible, with special emphasis on the smaller organisations as well as parish
councils.”
Application forms, guidance notes and general information will be automatically be sent to
parish and town councils.
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For more information, please contact the Green Spaces Team on 01455 255728.
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New play equipment for village
CHILDREN in Barlestone are now benefiting from the provision of new play equipment at
the May Meadow play area in the village.
The project to replace some very old wooden pieces of play equipment cost a total of
£21,600, but £7,688 was met through a grant from the Parish & Community Initiative
Fund.
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New bus service launched
A NEW bus service connecting the rural Leicestershire villages of Fenny Drayton,
Witherley and Ratcliffe Culey with Nuneaton has just launched.
The new Hinckleybus service 68 will serve residents in these very rural locations five days
a week, enabling residents who have been without a regular service for some time to
travel around the local area without having to rely on a car.
The return of a daily bus service has been warmly welcomed by all village residents, but
particularly from people living in Ratcliffe Culey who currently do not have any bus service
in their village at all.
The new bus service from has been commissioned by the Borough Council through
Arriva, the company that owns Hinckleybus, and complements the government-funded
£17.6m of road and infrastructure investment in the A5 around the Enterprise Zone at
MIRA Technology Park.
Borough Councillor Maureen Cook, who helped the residents’ campaign for the new
service, said: “I know our residents appreciate the Borough Council and Arriva for taking
the time to listen to the issues out on the rural boundaries.
“It is a matter which the Parish Council, County Councillor Ivan Ould and Borough
Councillor Kevin Morrell have worked tirelessly to resolve and I am delighted to see this
service launched.”
Craig Allen, Depot Manager for Hinckleybus, said: “We are delighted to be able to work in
partnership with the Borough Council and the local villages to provide this new service.”
Borough Council Leader Mike Hall said: “The council welcomes the introduction of this
new service and would like to express its thanks to Arriva for reviewing its services
following the introduction of the new MIRA bus initiative. Villagers will now have access by
public transport to Nuneaton with convenient connections to Hinckley, Atherstone and
Tamworth.”
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Free trees for landowners
A FREE tree scheme for farmers and rural landowners has been launched to help replace
lost landscape trees in rural areas of the county.
Since the early 1980s, the county has lost over 50% of its single landscape trees from
rural areas. This is largely due to the ravages of Dutch Elm Disease in the 1980s, and
more recent disorders such as Chestnut Bleeding Canker and Oak Decline are adding to
this loss. More worryingly, Ash Dieback (Chalara) presents a new threat as ash is one of
the most common hedgerow and woodland trees in the county.
To encourage this initiative, Leicestershire County Council will be providing trees for
farmers and landowners to plant in hedgerows, field boundaries, field corners and in
parkland areas.
Sites next to, and visible from, main road corridors will be preferred but any site on rural
land which is visible to the public will be considered. (The scheme does not cover private
gardens).
The County Council will supply the trees and planting materials, with the landowner
carrying out the planting and subsequent aftercare.
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For more information contact the Property Helpdesk at County Hall on 0116 305
6922.
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Costa to tempt Hinckley’s coffee lovers
COSTA is bringing a new store to Hinckley coffee lovers after signing up to the Crescent
in the town.
The company has exchanged contracts on a 1,787 sq ft unit at the new scheme – its
second store in the town centre – and joins Sainsbury’s, Cineworld, TK Maxx, Prezzo,
Simply Gym and Poundland at the new development. Fab and Elbow Room, two local
companies, are also opening at the Crescent.
Tony Baker, of the Tin Hat Partnership – the company behind the new development, said
it was another welcome addition.
He said: “We are delighted to have another national retail brand signed up to the
Crescent. Costa opening their new store not only shows great faith in our development but
in Hinckley as a whole.
“There is a real sense now that we are starting to see the line-up at the Crescent take
shape and it’s a great mix of retail and leisure – bringing a range of new names into the
town as well as providing space for successful operators to expand.
“The exciting news is that we are very close to signing at least two more retailers that will,
again, provide something new for Hinckley town centre. We are also in very positive
discussions with several more companies too.”
The Borough Council’s Executive Member for Town Centres, Chris Ladkin, said: “This is
more good news for the whole of Hinckley town centre.
“Hinckley already has a very strong offering in shops, restaurants and our market in the
Castle Street area. It is now clear that the Crescent with its cinema, large Sainsbury’s
supermarket and a wide range retailers in clothing, food, drink and coffee will complement
our Castle Street area ensuring Hinckley town centre as a whole will be a very attractive
destination both in the day and at night.”
Emma Hobbs, Costa Acquisitions Manager, said: “Costa, the UK’s favourite coffee shop,
is pleased to announce that we’re opening a brand new store in Hinckley, bringing more
choice, investment and eight to ten new jobs to the local area.
“As with all of our new store openings, we’re looking forward to playing our part in the
community, getting involved with local events and initiatives, providing a new meeting
place for local groups and helping with local charity work and fundraising where we can.”
The new store brings further investment and jobs to Hinckley with the Crescent and
existing Castle Street store employing 20 people in the town.
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Lights, camera, action
CINEWORLD, the UK’s leading cinema chain, will be opening its latest cinema in The
Crescent in Hinckley on Friday 4 December.
The new cinema will feature five state-of-the-art screens, as well as a Baskin Robbins ice
cream counter and Pick and Mix section.
The 787-seat cinema will deliver crystal-clear images and a powerful digital sound system,
creating a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are in the film.
Chris Clarkson, Cineworld Hinckley General Manager, said: “We’re delighted to be
opening Cineworld Hinckley at The Crescent in early December. As the only cinema within
the new retail and leisure development, we look forward to offering film fans the best allround viewing experience with an exciting line-up of films releases, including ‘Victor
Frankenstein’, starring James McAvoy and Daniel Ratcliffe, released on 3 December, and
twisted horror comedy ‘Krampus’, released on 4 December. We can’t wait to share our
passion for film with the community.”
In addition to showing the hottest Hollywood releases including the much-anticipated “Star
Wars: The Force Awakens” on 17 December, Cineworld Hinckley will be offering weekly
discounted Movies for Juniors screenings for just £1.75 on Saturdays, Sundays and
school holidays as well as Student NUS discount. The cinema is also available for private
venue hire.
Cineworld Unlimited Card holders can also enjoy access to an unlimited number of films
per month for less than the price of two new-release peak time tickets, as well as 10% off
in cinema snacks and drinks, local offers at restaurants and shops, and exclusive advance
screenings.
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What's On
DECEMBER
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Tues 1st: GHOST WALK. Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney.
Haunted Heritage Ghost Walk around Bosworth Battlefield. Pre-booking essential.
Time: 7pm. All tickets £12. Contact: 01455 290429.
Weds 2nd: LUNCHTIME CONCERT. St. Mary's Church, Hinckley. Featuring
Hinckley Academy and John Cleveland Sixth Form Centre music students. Time:
1pm. Price: £4 (adult), £1 (children).
Weds 2nd: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CAR TRAIL. Hinckley town centre. An
opportunity for elderly and disabled people to see the Christmas lights by car with
mince pies and festive entertainment in the United Reformed Church afterwards.
Time: from 6pm to 8pm. Free but advance booking essential. Contact: 01455
255893.
Thurs 3rd to Mon 7th: CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL. St Mary’s Church, Hinckley.
The church will be transformed with trees, lights and decorations. Free. Contact:
01455 234241.
Fri 4th to Mon 7th: CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL. St Martin’s Church, Desford.
Time: 10am to 6pm daily, except Sunday from 12noon. Free. Christmas Market on
Friday 6pm to 9pm. Contact: Pat Crane on 01455 823537.
Fri 4th to Sun 6th: CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL. St Peter’s Church, Witherley.
Free. Christmas Fair on Saturday from 12noon to 3.30pm.
Sat 5th, 12th & 19th: SALVATION ARMY CAROLS. Market Place, Hinckley. Get
into the Christmas spirit while shopping. Time: 10.30am to 12noon.
Sat 5th: CHRISTMAS FAYRE. Green Towers Hinckley Club For Young People,
Richmond Road Hinckley. Time 11am to 3pm. Price: £1 (adults), children free.
Contact 01455 230468.
Sat 5th to Fri 11th (excluding Mon 7th): CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL. SS Philip
and James Church, Groby. Times vary. Free entry. Refreshments on sale.
Tues 8th to Sat 12th: PLAY. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley. New
Theatre Players present "A Chorus of Disapproval" by Alan Ayckbourn. Prices from
£7.50 to £8.50. Contact: Richard Cooper on 01455 613345 or 07970 610349.
Weds 9th: FAMILY HISTORY TASTER SESSION. Hinckley Library. Learn how to
research your family history on the internet. Booking essential. Time: 2pm to 4pm.
Price: £4. Contact: 0116 305 2500.
Fri 11th: LISTEN WHILE YOU LUNCH. Hinckley Library. Nick Marshall describes
the festive period before Queen Victoria's reign. Time: 12noon to 1pm. Price: £3
(library members) £4.50 (non-members). Contact: 0116 305 2500.
Fri 11th: CAROLS AROUND THE TREE. Hinckley Market Place. A chance to sing
some carols round the Christmas tree. Time: 4pm to 5.30pm.
Fri 11th: JIVE NIGHT. Wykin District Social Club, Frederick Avenue, Hinckley.
Time: 7.30pm to 11.15pm (jive lesson 7.30pm to 8.30pm). Price: £3.50. Contact:
Elaine and David Atkins on 01455 840052.
Sun 13th: COUNTRY MUSIC CONCERT. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head,
Hinckley. Hank Williams as played by Marc Robinson, Johnny Cash as played by
Pete Jackson and Patsy Cline as played by Patsy Lee perform their greatest hits.
Price: £17.50. Contact: Elva Geary on 07947 774967.
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Tues 15th: CHRISTMAS CONCERT. Earl Shilton United Reformed Church, High
Street, Earl Shilton. Collection of carols, plus part one of Handel's famous Messiah
oratorio, performed by Hinckley Choral Union. Time: 7.30pm. Price: £6. Contact:
Shirley Elsby on 01455 446360.
Thurs 17th to Sat 19th: CONCERT. Concordia Theatre, Hinckley. Eric Darlington
with the John Cleveland Band. Price: £9. Contact: Jean Darlington on 01455
614464.
Fri 18th: CAROLS AROUND THE TREE. Church Street, Burbage. A community
carol service. Time: 7pm. Contact: 01455 637533.
Sun 20th: MICK CROUCHMAN CHRISTMAS SHOW. Concordia Theatre, Hinckley.
Contact: www.concordiatheatre.co.uk/
Sun 20th: CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT. Holy Trinity Church, Cleveland Rd,
Hinckley. Time: 7pm. Contact: Katy on 01455 442750.
Sat 26th to Tues 29th : CHRISTMAS TREE AND WREATH SERVICE. Hinckley
Methodist Church, Albert Road, Hinckley. Time: varies through weekend (includes
switch-on Thurs from 6pm). Contact: Martin Shipley on 01455 446612 or 07584
027066.
JANUARY
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Weds 13th to Saturday 6th Feb: PANTOMIME. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell
Head, Hinckley. Pantomime Society present "Cinderella", including an appearance
by Sooty the bear. Time: performances vary. Price: £13 (adults), £11 (children).
Contact: Katie McGovern on 07528 231379.
Fri 15th: LISTEN WHILE YOU LUNCH. Hinckley Library. Dr John Sutton talks
about JFK's assassination. Time: 12noon to 1pm. Price: £3 (library members) £4.50
(non-members). Contact: 0116 305 2500.
FEBRUARY
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Mon 1st to Sat 31st Dec: EXHIBITION. Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre,
Sutton Cheney. A colourful exhibition remembering the remarkable local events to
mark the procession of King Richard III’s mortal remains from Bosworth Battlefield
towards his final resting place at Leicester Cathedral. Free. Contact: 01455
290429.
Weds 3rd: LUNCHTIME CONCERT. St. Mary's Church, Hinckley. Featuring The
Rowan Ensemble (wind quintet - flute, French horn, bassoon, clarinet & oboe).
Time: 1pm. Price: £4 adult, £1 children.
Tues 9th: HINCKLEY PANCAKE RACE. Castle Street, Hinckley. Pancakes
provided, just bring a frying pan. Races for all age groups. Time: 12noon. Contact:
Hinckley BID on 01455 698494.
Sat 13th to Sun 14th: PLAY. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley. New
Theatre Studio Players present "Ghost Writer" by David Tristram. Prices: £6.50.
Contact: Joanne Holt on 07799 552230.
Mon 15th to Sat 20th: MUSICAL. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley.
Hinckley Community Guild present "Chess". Prices from: £9 to £12. Contact: Judy
Peatfield on 01455 847676.
Mon 15th & Weds 17th: STAR WARS EVENT. Hinckley Library. Special half-term
event. Crafts, stories and activities for children with a Star Wars theme. For 5 to 10-
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year-olds. Booking essential. Time: 10.30am to 4pm. Price: £2.50. Contact: 0116
305 2500.
Mon 15th: STAR WARS EVENT. Earl Shilton Library. Special half-term event.
Crafts, stories and activities for children with a Star Wars theme. For 5 to 10-yearolds. Booking essential. Time: 2.30pm to 12noon. Price: £2.50. Contact: 0116 305
2500.
Weds 17th: COSTUMED GUIDED WALK. Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre,
Sutton Cheney. Time: 11am & 2pm. Price: £4.50 (adults), £3.25 (child). Contact:
01455 290429.
Thurs 18th: TALK. Cafe Espanol, the Atkins Building, Lower Bond Street, Hinckley.
"Medieval Manor Houses in Leicestershire" with Peter Liddle. Time: 7.30pm. Price:
members free, non-members £3. Contact: hinckleymuseum@hotmail.co.uk.
Sat 20th: WEDDING FAIR. Atkins Building, Hinckley. Free entry featuring local
businesses providing wedding product and services. Time: 10am to 4pm. Contact:
info@atkinsbuilding.co.uk
Sun 21st: THEO THE MOUSE SHOW. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head,
Hinckley. A family show from the writer of ITV's Sooty and Basil Brush. Time:
2.30pm. Price: £10 (adult), £8 (child). Contact: Elva Geary on 07947 774967.
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On show at the Atkins
THE Atkins Gallery hosted a successful Big Draw event this autumn as part of the
Campaign for Drawing initiative using this year’s title ‘Every Drawing Tells a Story’.
It saw a tremendous turnout with artist-commissioned wall murals giving children the
opportunity to colour-in superb images of factory life whilst reminiscing about Hinckley’s
heritage.
In addition to the free family fun over the autumn half-term, the Fully Fashioned Memories
exhibition attracted visitors of all ages and encouraged them to recount the Atkins’ factory
past and look at the hosiery items that used to be manufactured in the Atkins Building.
Atkins Showcases
For those looking for a unique and inspired gift or original piece of artwork to buy, the
Atkins Building could provide the answer. As well as paintings and exhibition pieces for
sale on the walls of the Atkins Gallery, there are also the Atkins Showcases to browse,
where individual items are available to be purchased.
The showcases mainly comprise arts and crafts including gift ideas, ceramics and
ornamental pieces. The items on display change every six weeks, so there is always a
sense of variety to the showcases.
Coming up in the Atkins Gallery
Wedding Fair – 20 February 2016
The Atkins Building is set to hold its annual Wedding Fair in February 2016 to showcase
local exhibitors to potential brides and grooms.
Next year’s event will be slightly different, with the fair taking place in the lovely Atkins
Gallery with teas and coffees available to purchase from Café Español.
Leicestershire Registration Service will be on hand to answer questions and also show
visitors around the ceremony suites.
New to the Wedding Fair this year will be the presentation stage which exhibitors can use
for product demos or putting on a fashion show.
Those interested in having a stall at the fair, should call 01455 247070 or email
info@atkinsbuilding.co.uk.
Renewal - 4 to 28 March 2016
This intriguing and captivating exhibition in the Atkins Gallery will be staged by Art Space,
a group of 17 artists based in Loughborough.
Renewal is a theme that has intrigued artists through the ages and this will be a diverse
show of work, both figurative and abstract, using installation, painting, photography,
textiles, collage and ceramics.
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Tour of Christmas lights
LOCAL disabled and elderly residents will once again be invited to tour Hinckley town
centre to see the Christmas lights.
The event will take place on Wednesday 2 December from 6pm. Organised jointly by the
Borough Council and the Hinckley United Reformed Church. Castle Street, Market Place
and Regent Street will be closed while the event takes place.
There will also be hot drinks, mince pies and festive entertainment available at the United
Reformed Church.
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For more information please contact Sherrilee Fahey on 01455 255893.
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Carols around the tree
FOLLOWING the success of last year’s “Carols around the Tree” in Hinckley, the event is
being staged again this year.
Everyone is welcome to attend the carol service, which is being staged by Churches
Together and the Borough Council, on Friday 11 December at 4pm in the Market Place.
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Event promises flippin’ fun
HINCKLEY BID’s 6th Annual Pancake Race will take place on Castle Street at midday on
Tuesday 9 February 2016.
All pancakes will be provided, participants just need to bring their own frying pans.
There will be an opportunity for individuals, schools, teams and companies to take part
with an additional prize for the ‘funniest costume’ on the day.
There is no entry charge.
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For more information call Hinckley BID on 01455 698494.
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Classic cars attract 20,000 visitors
OVER 20,000 people visited Hinckley town centre on a Sunday morning in September to
view more than 600 cars on show at Hinckley BID’s 5th Annual Classic Vehicle Show.
This year saw an all-time record number of entries, prompting Steve Wegerif of Hinckley
BID to say: “We had a wonderful array of magnificent elderly and interesting machines
attend from all over the UK, all of which had been lovingly restored.
“This was the best attended of all the Hinckley BID free events. Next year’s classic
motorshow will be held on Sunday 18 September.”
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Clockwise helps with Christmas
CLOCKWISE can help with that little extra for Christmas, by offering loans from £50 to
£10,000 with variable rates and repayment options to suit everyone’s budget.
Providing loans for smaller amounts means people can borrow only what they need and
with lower interest rates they could save money on loan repayments. Applying online is
easy with quick or same-day decisions, no hidden costs or penalties for early repayment.
Clockwise Credit Union has provided safe savings and affordable loans throughout
Leicestershire for 23 years.
Many of the loans provided by Clockwise help those who may have otherwise turned to
doorstep or payday lenders. In partnership with the Borough Council, Clockwise is
committed to raising awareness of its products and services; helping residents save,
manage their money, budget effectively and have access to a range of affordable loans.
Clockwise has had local access points serving Hinckley and the surrounding area for five
years and is currently located at Next Generation, Castle Street, Hinckley every
Wednesday morning between 10am and 1pm.
It also works closely with the local Community Houses at Wykin, Earl Shilton and Barwell.
Clockwise can also be accessed on line by visiting the website at www.clockwise.coop.
Clockwise is now also able to offer all its members a new prepaid card product called the
Engage Card. This Visa debit card has many benefits.
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For further information call 01455 244599, visit the Clockwise website at
www.clockwise.coop or pop into the Next Generation Access Point.
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We will remember them...
A SPECIAL outdoor service and parade was held in Hinckley to mark the 75th anniversary
of the Battle of Britain.
The Rev John Whittaker led the drumhead service and service of thanks in Argents Mead
bandstand, followed by a parade down Castle Street.
The special service was arranged by members of the Royal Air Force Association, St
Mary’s Church and the Borough Council to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of
Britain, the first decisive battle in history that was fought entirely in the air.
The service remembered all those who contributed at the time.
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Make the most of car parks
MOTORISTS are being reminded that parking in the most appropriate town centre car
park for their needs could save them money.
The current charges for short stay and long stay car parks are as follows:
Short stay car parks
Church Walk, St Marys Road, Trinity Vicarage, Stockwell Head, Rear of Castle Street,
Trinity Lane East, and Mansion Street.
Charges are: up to 1 hour 70p; 2 hours £1.20; 3 hours £1.50; 4 hours £2.60; over 4 hours
£4.80.
Long stay car parks
Mount Road, Trinity Lane West, Holliers Walk, Druid Street, Alma Road and Lower Bond
Street.
Charges are: up to 5 hours £1.30; over 5 hours £2.40.
Season tickets are available for long stay car parks at the following costs: three months £110; six months - £200; and 12 months - £375.
Thornycroft Road
Charges are: up to 1 hour 70p; 2 hours £1.20; 5 hours £1.30; over 5 hours £2.40.
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How safe do you feel?
RESIDENTS are being urged to take part in the Community Safety Consultation to tell the
Blaby District and Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Community Safety Partnership (CSP)
how safe and satisfied they are in the district.
Despite significant changes to local policing, the joint Community Safety Partnership
exceeded all Police and Crime Commissioner funding targets during 2014-15.
Projects during the previous year included Home Security Scheme and working with male
victims and children affected by domestic abuse.
Councillor Chris Boothby, Chair of the Community Safety Partnership for Hinckley and
Bosworth, said: “I would encourage residents to take part in the consultation as the more
responses we receive, the better picture we have of where we are succeeding, and any
areas we need to address.”
Residents, businesses and visitors to the district can complete the survey throughout the
year, either online or by requesting a paper copy.
Visit the Have Your Say page at www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk to complete the survey.
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For more information call the Community Safety Team on 01455 238141.
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Domestic abuse support
MONEY worries and increased time spent with the family can all play a role in a rise of
domestic abuse cases over the Christmas period.
So in the run up to Christmas the Community Safety Partnership will be making as many
people aware as possible about how to get support for domestic abuse.
Councillor Chris Boothby, Chair of the Community Safety Partnership and the council’s
Executive Member responsible for Housing and Community Safety said: “We want to
make sure that any victims of domestic abuse know how they can access help. The
council provides an outreach service for victims of domestic abuse where they can access
help, advice and support.”
If anyone is a victim of abuse, or is a friend or relative of someone who may be being
abused, please get in touch with the council’s Domestic Abuse Outreach team on 07966
202181 or the Community Safety team on Hinckley 255746.
A drop-in session is also held at the Borough Council offices at The Hub, Rugby Road,
Hinckley on Wednesdays from 10am to 12noon.
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Closed at Christmas
EARL Shilton, Barwell and Gwendoline Community Houses will close on Friday 18
December at 2.15pm and re-open on Monday 4 January at 9.15am.
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Support and funding for businesses
THE Business Gateway is a growth hub for Leicester and Leicestershire that provides a
single place to access information about business support and funding.
Businesses in the Borough are encouraged to visit the Business Gateway website at
www.llepbizgateway.co.uk to access the business support on offer.
The information is split into five key areas:
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Starting a business
Growing a business
How to access finance
Hiring and training
Premises and investing
The website is updated daily with business support news, local business events and the
latest funding information.
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For more information contact the service by email at bizgateway@llep.org.uk.
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New dog clean-up campaign launched
THIS winter will once again see the Borough Council’s Clean Neighbourhoods team
focusing on tackling irresponsible dog walkers who are not picking up after their pets.
As the problem increases during the darker nights, the number of patrols will be stepped
up in order to catch the irresponsible owners.
Members of the team will also be issuing ‘report it’ cards to encourage witnesses to come
forward, as well as handing out ‘caught doing right’ cards to responsible dog walkers who
are seen to be picking up.
They will also be entered into a competition to win a dog grooming session provided by
Hot Dogs Grooming and a Doggy Gift Pack provided by Pingle’s Pet Store.
The campaign, called “There Is No Such Thing As The Dog Poo Fairy”, will also see the
team making visits to schools across the Borough to promote responsible dog ownership
to the children.
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Members’ allowances amended
MEMBERS’ allowances have been amended by the Borough Council for the first time
since 2005 in line with the recommendations of the independent remuneration panel.
The recommendations of the panel were that:
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the Basic Allowance be increased from £3,275 to £4,000 per annum;
the allowances for the Mayor and Deputy Mayor remain unchanged (as these were
increased in 2013);
the travel allowances be aligned to HMRC rates of 45p per mile;
the panel meets on an annual basis (unless requested by the council to review the
scheme at any point within the ensuing 12 months) in accordance with
recommendations of Internal Audit to give consideration to the Members’ Allowance
Scheme.
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the Special Responsibility Allowances be increased as follows:
Leader of the Council - from £7,640 to £10,000.
Member of the Executive - from £4,095 to £5,500.
Opposition Leader(s) - from £2,455 to £3,500.
Licensing & Regulatory Committee Chairman - from £2,455 to £3,500.
Planning Committee Chairman - from £2,455 to £3,500.
Scrutiny Commission Chairman - from £2,455 to £3,500.
Finance, Audit & Performance Committee Chairman - from £1,644.95 to £3,500.
Appeals Panel Chairman - from £1,644.95 to £2,500.
Ethical Governance & Personnel Committee Chairman - from £1,644.95 to £2,500.
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Copies of the scheme are available on our website at www.hinckleybosworth.gov.uk/ or by contacting Democratic Services on 01455 255879.
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Pickers clean up village
THE Sheepy Litter Pickers had a productive day when they visited Orton on the Hill, Cross
Hands and Twycross Lane.
With the help of McDonalds of Appleby Magna, they collected 15 bags of litter.
Meanwhile, McDonalds of Hinckley held 15 litter picks on 15 parks to commemorate the
15 years they have been located on the North Perimeter Road.
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Scrap metal warning
A WARNING has been issued to residents not to leave white goods, such as fridgefreezers, or metal objects on the streets.
Anyone caught doing so will face prosecution as it’s an offence under Section 33 of the
Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Scrap collectors will not take fridge-freezers - they will just cut the small section out of the
back and leave the rest on the street. And in some cases they will simply dump what they
don’t want in another street.
Putting out these items on the street also causes other problems, as they can cause a
hazard for children, as well as encouraging more waste to be dumped alongside.
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Why dirty pizza boxes can’t be recycled
SOME recycling bin caddies are not being serviced because they contain card that is
contaminated with food waste.
The most common offenders are take-away pizza boxes that have grease and cheese
residue on them.
Dirty card is not accepted for recycling as even a small amount of contamination can
significantly decrease the quality of the final recyclable product, meaning it is unsuitable
for re-use. This is important as collected material could be rejected with the waste ending
up in landfill and disposal charges incurred.
Residents are encouraged to put all used pizza boxes into the black bin.
Paper and card products are recycled in a process that predominantly employs water to
separate-out the various fibres.
The oil and grease found in paper containers like pizza boxes or other food cartons gets
into the water mixture during the recycling process.
As the oil separates and refuses to mix with the water, it gets in the way when in later
stages, the mashed up mixture of paper and cardboard needs to be reformed to make
recycled paper products.
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Keep wrapping paper out of the recycling bin
PLEASE remember that wrapping paper cannot be recycled, so should not be put into the
caddy or taken to the recycling banks around the borough.
This is because the majority of gift wrap contains dyes, laminates, glitter, non-paper type
additives such as shiny coloured plastics.
As the paper collected in the caddies goes to a paper mill to recycle the paper into
newsprint. it needs to be free from additives. Other wrapping paper is so thin that there
are very few fibres left which again makes the paper unsuitable for recycling.
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Rooting for a real tree this Christmas
FOR those planning on buying a real Christmas tree this year, why not consider choosing
one with the roots still attached.
A tree with roots has the advantage of not shedding as many needles when it’s inside the
home and it may be possible to replant it outside after Twelfth Night.
However, if a tree isn’t suitable for replanting, then the council will collect it on scheduled
garden waste collection days. Tall trees must be cut to a maximum of one metre lengths.
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Collections this festive season
RESIDENTS are reminded that due to the festive bank holidays collections will change as
follows:
Christmas Eve
Refuse and recycling collections as normal.
Christmas Day
Refuse (black lid) collections will take place on Thursday 24 December.
Recycling (blue lid) collections will be on Saturday 19 December.
Boxing Day
Refuse (black lid) collections will take place on Tuesday 29 December.
Recycling (blue lid) collections will be on Monday 26 December (as normal).
New Year’s Day
Refuse (black lid) collections will take place on Thursday 31 December.
Recycling (blue lid) collections will be on Saturday 2 January 2016.
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The collections of garden waste (brown lid) and of large items (furniture, electrical
etc) will both be suspended for two weeks from Monday 21 December 2015 to
Friday 1 January 2016 inclusive.
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Recycling thanks
THE Waste Management team would like to thank residents for helping them to improve
the quality of materials put into blue bins.
Some items, such as carrier bags, polystyrene, black plastic and hard plastic cannot be
recycled. The amount of these incorrect items received has now reduced thanks to
residents’ support.
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New calendars
THE current recycling and waste calendar and guide runs until the end of April 2016.
New calendars will be delivered with the council tax information that will be sent out
towards the end of February next year.
Calendars are also available on the council website or by contacting the council on 01455
238141.
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Success for litter pick
COMMUNITY-minded volunteers joined forces with Borough councillors to take part in a
successful litter pick around Burbage Common.
The council’s Clean Neighbourhoods Team supplied high visibility vests, rubbish bags,
protective gloves and litter sticks to the group of 14 volunteers.
It proved to be a successful event, as the group collected 11 bags of litter that had been
discarded around Burbage Common and along Leicester Road.
Organiser of the litter pick and local ward councillor, Jan Kirby, said: “Burbage Common
and Woods is well-loved by residents and its sweeping open countryside and winding
woodland pathways have always been particularly popular with dog walkers.
“While most people respect the countryside and leave no trace of their visit, sadly a
minority of visitors do not. We were dismayed to find around 30 bags of dog mess that had
been bagged and then left on the ground less than 30 metres from a bin. I would urge all
visitors to the site to help the council to keep the Common tidy for everyone by either
using the bins provided or by taking your rubbish home.”
Councillor Kirby will be organising monthly litter picks around the borough and more
volunteers are welcome to join in.
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For more information call the Clean Neighbourhoods Team on 01455 255977.
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New leisure centre on course for spring opening
THE construction of the new £15 million Hinckley Leisure Centre on Argents Mead is
continuing to take shape.
The new facility is on course for opening in spring 2016 by leisure operators Places for
People Leisure and the accompanying photos show progression of this key construction
project.
Included in the new facility will be: 25m eight-lane and learner swimming pools with
moveable floors and spectator seating, eight court sports hall, 139 station gym and fitness
studios and an enhanced café with outdoor seating overlooking Argents Mead.
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Exercise classes for the over 50s
REGULAR exercise is important for everyone aged over 50, so Melanie Tee’s Mature
Movers classes are the ideal way to get fit, boost energy, and improve balance, coordination and confidence.
These friendly classes, which are supported by Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland, can
also help to maintain a healthy weight, reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood
pressure. Each class is rounded-off with a cup of tea and a chat.
Classes are held as follows:
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Monday - Bagworth Working Mens Club from 9.30am to 10.30am; Ratby Sports
Club from 11.30am to 12.30pm; and Hinckley Westfields Centre from 1.30pm to
2.30pm.
Tuesday - Earl Shilton Age UK Centre from 10am to 11am.
Wednesday - Sport in Desford from 9.30am to 10.30am.
Thursday - Barlestone Village Hall from 10.30am to 11.30am.
For more information contact Melanie on 01455 293092 or Kate Webb at Age UK
LS& R on 01455 619519 or email kate.webb@ageuk leics.org.uk.
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Improve health and wellbeing
A NUMBER of health and wellbeing programmes based on enjoyable exercise sessions
are running in Hinckley & Bosworth this winter.
THE Exercise Referral Scheme and LEAP (Lifestyle, Exercise and Physical Activity)
programmes are designed to aid individuals who have been identified by their health
professional to take up the benefits of participation.
People referred receive a 10-12 week activity programme designed for their needs
delivered by highly-qualified instructors or dieticians.
The Health Referral Scheme is for those living with either high blood pressure, arthritis,
mental health or any other general health concern. These sessions, costing £2.30 each,
can only be accessed by a referral from a health professional and are based at Hinckley
Leisure Centre, Sport in Desford and Barwell Methodist Church from Monday to Friday.
The LEAP programme is free and is aimed at individuals over 16 with a BMI of 28 or
above, who want to lose weight and become more active. The two weight management
courses are available as follows:
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Tuesday 6pm to 8.30pm at St Francis Centre, Hinckley.
Thursday 3.30pm to 6pm at George Ward Centre, Barwell.
For others wanting to lose weight with a lower BMI of 25 or above then Weight-watchers
also offer a 12 week free programme. Individuals are encouraged to self-refer to both
LEAP and Weightwatchers by phoning: LEAP - 0116 222 7154; Weightwatchers - 0116
222 7192.
Cllr Amanda Wright, the Borough Council’s Health Champion and Chair of the Hinckley &
Bosworth Health and Wellbeing Partnership, said: “Obesity is a local concern as well as a
national one and it can lead to many other types of health problems.
“It is vitally important that we do as much as we can to educate and help the public on this.
“I would urge anyone who feels they may benefit from these programmes and who fits
within the criteria to take advantage of them. They are either free or very low cost per
session and they could really benefit some people.”
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For more information contact Emma Hopkins, Physical Activity Development
Officer, on 01455 255875.
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Town’s new £1million squash complex opens
HINCKLEY Squash & Racketball Club has just taken possession of its brand new complex
at Tungsten Park, Hinckley.
The £1million facility includes four championship courts and a gym, enabling the club to
accommodate significantly more members as well as host regional tournaments and
events. This compares with just two courts at the previous club building on Brunel Road.
The development was facilitated by the Borough Council, which will remain the landlord of
the property, with the club operating the facility on a 125 year lease.
Chris Salter, the chairman of the Squash Club said: “The club trustees would like to thank
all those who have helped make it happen: club committee members, England Squash
and Racketball and the Borough Council, who have been instrumental in facilitating the
build and will continue to support the club to encourage more people to participate in
sport.”
John Davis, Squash Development Manager for the East Midlands, said: “The new-look
facility will give the local community a wonderful chance to get fit, meet people and have
fun through playing squash.”
Councillor Russell Roberts, Executive Member responsible for Culture and Leisure,
added: “This is another fantastic example of high quality sporting facility in our borough.
“I know the club are very keen to ensure usage is maximised and are especially keen to
welcome new participants into squash and racketball”.
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Project to encourage children’s play
A PROJECT aimed at encouraging children to re-discover the joy of playing in the streets
and the communities where they live is looking to launch a pilot a scheme in the Borough.
It is being run by the Hinckley and Bosworth 5 to 11 Years Network which wants to see
children again playing near or next their own front door, contributing to a healthy happy
childhood and bringing the community to life.
To be suitable to apply for the pilot scheme, organisers must have:
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A street that a number of children and families live on in fairly close proximity to
each other.
A number of adults willing to work with the network, who live on the street.
Neighbours willing to support the project.
A willingness to learn and work together.
Councillor Miriam Surtees, the Borough Council’s Children and Young People’s Champion, said: “This is a really exciting project to encourage youngsters to play and we need
your help to help us make it happen”.
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For more information call Rebecca Ball, Children and Young People’s Strategic Coordinator, on 01455 255937 or e-mail rebecca.ball@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk.
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Health service review underway
RESIDENTS in Hinckley and Bosworth are being urged to have their say on the way local
health services are delivered in the future as part of a consultation being undertaken by
the West Leicestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).
The CCG has worked with patients, carers, health care professionals and stakeholders
such as voluntary organisations and other elected representatives to co-design the
options which the CCG are planning to formally consult on over a 12 week period shortly.
Details of the consultation arrangements will be published shortly.
A major part of this review is to consider where services currently provided at the Mount
Road Hospital site (now deemed not fit for purpose) will be delivered from in the future, to
best serve the needs of the community. This could result in a consolidated and enhanced
provision, across a range of sites i.e. the adjacent Health Centre in Mount Road, in
community setting, or at the Hinckley Community Hospital at Sunnyside.
Cllr Amanda Wright, Chair of the Hinckley & Bosworth Health and Wellbeing Partnership,
said: “This review provides a crucial opportunity for the public to have their say on new
and hopefully enhanced services for the local area. The only way that the people of
Hinckley and Bosworth are going to be able to effectively shape the health services in this
area is by participating and engaging with this review and making their voices heard.
“People tell me that a key consideration for them would be to have an Urgent Care Walkin Centre or Minor Injuries Unit as part of future provision. I am currently in dialogue with
the CCG representative and the local MP to press this position.
“I do not want the public to lose sight of the fact that these questions will be extremely
important to them and health care within this Borough. I will be doing all I can to
champion and influence the shape, the type and nature of health services that our
residents want. I need them to get behind this, however, and make their feelings known.
Please feel free to contact me at amanda.wright@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk.”