Page 10 - Herald December 2024

10 THE NEW COUNTESTHORPE HERALD
OCTOBER 2024
Over the years the fund has supported many applicants who were experiencing hardship and whose lives were made a little easier by the help they received.
At the 2024 Annual General Meeting and subsequent meeting of trustees the current situation and future of the fund were discussed. It was noted that the volume of used newsprint had decreased during the pandemic and was still at a lower level. At the same time the number of applications for help had also decreased and had been particularly low in the first 8 months 2024. There had also been a decrease in the number of volunteers dealing with the collection and sorting of newspapers and an increase in the ages of those running & managing the activities of the fund. Having discussed the issues at length the trustees took a unanimous decision to wind-up the fund and its activities.
In consequence the collection and receipt of newspapers will cease on 31st December 2024. However, the trustees will continue to receive and consider applications for help whilst finances permit. This will be reviewed towards the end of 2025.
The trustees wish to express their heartfelt thanks to all who have supported the fund over the past 15 years. This includes those who have collected newspapers ( many within the village and some from external sources ); those who have held collecting boxes; the team who have sorted and prepared newspapers for transport and sale and all who have supported the fund or applicants in any way.
Particular thanks are extended to Cherry Lane Garden Centre (the former Glebe Gardens) for providing space for two shipping containers and facilitating the sorting of newspapers and storage prior to disposal. The support of their management and staff over 15 years has been greatly appreciated and vital to the everyday running and success of the fund. Those premises which hold collecting boxes will be invited to retain them if they have a use - otherwise collection and disposal will be arranged after 31st December 2024.
As has been stated, applications will continue to be received under existing arrangements whilst funds permit.
As previously reported, Geoff Kirk’s commitment, enthusiasm and workload in the day to day operation of the fund are undiminished and were recognised in his award of Queen Camllla’s Medal, which also recognised the contribution this fund has made to the life of the village of Countesthorpe.
Many thanks, Peter Ward - Chairman
GLEBE GARDEN CENTRE
FIREWORK DISPLAY
For one of the best family bonfire nights around, why not join us on Saturday 2nd November at Glebe Garden Centre by Cherry Lane. With a massive bonfire, tasty refreshments, music and of course fantastic fireworks, come and join us whilst we help to raise funds to support our local Countesthorpe Scout Group. This year, gates will open at 5.30pm and the garden centre will stay open until 6.30pm, so why not arrive early, have a look around and grab a coffee and cake in the café. You’ll find there’s plenty to do, with fair rides for toddlers, fab food such as burger, chips and proper bonfire night treats of candy floss from the vans on site; why not sing along with the DJ while you get ready for the countdown to light the fire at 6.30pm.
With over 3,800 attending in 2022, Glebe Garden Centre by Cherry Lane is the place to be to watch over 20 minutes of amazing fireworks in a safe, family friendly environment. Rockets will be launched at 7.00pm!
We are also pleased to be able to offer a disabled viewing area on our easy to access patio, next to the café, although we’re sorry but we’ll have to restrict numbers in the area for safety reasons. Please contact the garden centre on 277 1570 to arrange use of this space. Why not book your tickets online in advance – there are savings to be had over the “on the gate” prices! Don’t forget that under 5s are admitted FREE.
An advance family ticket, for 2 adults and 3 children is £18.00.
A single ticket (anyone over
the age of 5) £7.00.
Advanced tickets are available
online until 4.30pm on the day.
Ticket prices on the gate are
£21.00 for the family ticket (2 adults and 3 children), with a single ticket being £8.00. Sorry, but for safety, all under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
Parking Information
Due to site development, we have limited parking spaces this year. Please be considerate if you are choosing to park your vehicle on-site for the Bonfire Night event.
If it is possible to do so, please find alternative parking arrangements and walk. This will enable us to give priority parking to those most in need.
In the past we’ve had lots of people arriving with minutes to spare just before the fireworks; so why not arrive early and take advantage of the fun, food and find yourself a great viewpoint... and it could help you to beat the queues!
For Your Safety
Your safety is our paramount concern, so please note that alcohol, fireworks and sparklers are not allowed on site. Because we want to keep you out of harms’ way whilst you watch the fire and fireworks, fencing is installed to keep you at a safe distance.
We’re looking out for you – so we have an established evacuation procedure, marshals on site, a 1st Aid spot and lost children points.
Please note that in the event of adverse weather, we do reserve the right to cancel the event – but I don’t think anyone would enjoy standing in a flooded field during torrential rain, howling gales or a snowstorm!
COUNTESTHORPE
COMMUNITY TRUST FUND
15 years ago Countesthorpe Community Trust Fund was set up to provide a source of help for those within the Parish of Countesthorpe who were experiencing urgent need and distress.
The fund was very much the vision of Geoff Kirk, who established a team of volunteers to collect and sort used newspapers, which were sold to provide a source of income.
TIMS Landscaping & Home Maintenance
277 0129
07885 052558
INSIDE
Tiling, Bathroom Fitting, Laminated Flooring
all types of DIY (If you don’t see what you need please ask)
8 Waterloo Crescent, Countesthorpe, Leicester LE8 5SU
OUTSIDE Slabbing Patio’s Block Paving Driveways Gravel-Pebbles Fencing Tree Work Grass Cutting Hedge Trimming Pressure Washing Gardens Cleared
Countesthorpe Herald
news@countesthorpe-herald.org
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