Syston Town News

Thringstone Together Summer Carnival

admin — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 09:01:40 +0000

Thringstone Carnival, happening on 20 June from 12 noon until 5pm at Thringstone Miners Social Centre, Homestead Road, Thringstone.

This event, put on by a group of venues and individuals called Thringstone Together, is a free entry event. We are lucky to have received local sponsorship and help from NWLDC’s Community Lottery Grant to put this event together, and all monies made after costs are taken out will be donated to Bright Hope Hospice in Swannington.

There will be a lot of things for all the family to see and do. There is a storyteller, 3 bouncy castles and an ice cream van, plus a fancy dress competition for those that want to give that a go. We also have 19 stalls of all sorts, a win a bottle stall, lucky dip, live music with groups and soloists, Limelight dancers are coming to give a display, there is a very comprehensive raffle with many prizes valued in excess of £50, plus fresh food, and the bar will be open.

All we need is good weather, and you there to enjoy yourselves.

Birstall and District Art Society

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

Members meet for informal painting sessions on Friday mornings 9.30am to 12 noon at the Coop Sports & Social Club, Birstall and on Wednesday evenings at Wanlip Village Hall from 6.30 to 8.30pm. All abilities are welcome and those less experienced can benefit from the expertise of longer-standing members (if desired!). There is the opportunity to take part in taster sessions before deciding to join.
Demonstration evenings are held on the second Tuesday of most months at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre at the Cedars Academy, Birstall. These start at 6.45pm and there is a charge of £5 for non-members. On 9th June Steve Woodhams returns for an Experiment in Cubism and on 11th August, BADAS welcomes a new artist Chris Jay Rogers who will be focusing on skies and clouds in landscape, using soft pastel. Paul Berryman will demonstrate portraiture on 8th September.
For more information, please visit https://www.BADAS.uk

Belated Happy Birthday

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

We have received a request to include a belated happy birthday to Barbara Broome whom turn 90 years on 2nd April this year.
Barbara has lived in Syston since the age of three and was one of 12 siblings.
We wish you a very happy belated birthday and hope that you enjoyed your day.

Citizens Advice Charnwood Advises on How to Deal with and How to Avoid Retail Scams

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

I bought a jacket online and when it arrived it looked nothing like the images shown. The company said if I want a refund I must pay to ship it to an address in China, but the website claimed the brand was UK-based. Is this a scam and how do I avoid it in future?
This is a really frustrating situation and, unfortunately, it’s becoming more common than you might think. It is in fact a type of retail scam and often leads to customers having refund rows with sellers who are misleading people.
These companies are known to convince people they’re based in the UK by using deceiving brand names and having UK websites or postal addresses. Some create AI-generated images of fake products and boutiques – and even go to the trouble of making up backstories about the origins of the brand.
What they actually do, as in your case, is ship low-quality items from overseas that can look nothing like the images advertised. Shoppers are then asked to fork out for expensive international shipping fees if they want their money back.
Understandably, many people don’t bother, because the cost of shipping takes a huge chunk out of the refund they’d receive. The scammers know this, and it’s how they take advantage of people.
When sellers turn out to be based overseas, UK consumer laws are far harder to enforce, so it can be difficult to recover your money. There are a few steps you can take to help you spot and avoid these scams:
? Research before buying from a company you haven’t used before – check reviews on search engines and third-party websites
? Watch out for heavily discounted, too-good-to-be-true prices and “huge closing down” sales
? Be mindful of the targeted shopping adverts in your social media feeds – this is often how customers are drawn in
? Consider whether images used to advertise an item were created by AI. This can be difficult, but look for overly airbrushed images, inconsistent textures or distortions on the face and body
? Check the company’s website delivery information. Overseas stores offer shipping to the UK in a much longer timeframe than a genuine UK-based brand would
If you have been caught out by this type of scam and you paid by debit or credit card, you may be able to get a refund. If you paid by debit card, ask your bank to use the ‘chargeback scheme’.
If you paid by credit card and the item cost less than £100, you can ask to use the same scheme. If you paid by credit card and the item cost between £100 and £30,000, tell your credit card company you want to make a ‘section 75’ claim to get your money back.
The more people that recognise and report these scams, the more can be done. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has the legal power to enforce UK consumer laws against traders which target UK shoppers but are based abroad, but they rely on people reporting it. If a company has broken the law, they can impose fines and website takedowns. You can report an issue to the CMA but they can’t help people with individual cases – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tell-the-cma-about-a-competition-or-market-problem
Citizens Advice can offer support with individual situations and we advise you to report scams to us too –
please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service helpline: 0808 223 1133
You can also report an advert you think is a scam to the Advertising Standards Agency – https://www.asa.org.uk/make-a-complaint.html

Fancy Something a Bit Different?

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

Global Harmony
An evening of songs…
Global Harmony are a mixed a cappella community choir based in Melton Mowbray.
In June, they’re performing at St John the Baptist Church, South Croxton!
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience something a bit different!
Global Harmony choir sing a dynamic variety of world music in a fun, friendly, informal environment; songs that celebrate diverse cultures and the joy of singing.
An evening of song; exciting rhythms of Africa, stirring Eastern European harmonies, songs from around the world.
Global harmony – Wouldn’t that be good?
“a state of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation between all nations, cultures, and individuals worldwide. Creating a balanced world by reducing conflict, fostering understanding, and promoting collective security, diversity, and sustainability…”
Now, wouldn’t that be good?
If you fancy something a bit different, find them on Facebook or at https://www.globalharmony.org.uk
Tickets can be bought at the door or from the numbers listed.

Green Councillors’ Update: June 2026

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

Many residents will know about the flyer that some residents received from Davidson’s about land between Syston and Queniborough. This caused understandable concern and confusion locally. At this stage, it is important to stress that this is not yet a planning application. It is an early, unofficial consultation by the developer before deciding whether to submit one.
If a formal application is eventually submitted, residents will then be able to comment through the official Charnwood planning process, and those comments are what count when decisions are made. We will continue to keep residents updated and, as always, will work hard to make sure objections and local concerns around traffic, flooding, pressure on services and the loss of separation between communities are properly heard.
Residents may also be aware that long awaited reports into the 2024 flooding have finally started to be published. While the delays have been extremely frustrating, it is positive to finally see clear recommendations and actions being set out. The reports help show where drainage systems struggled, where responsibility lies, and what improvements are needed to help reduce flooding in future. This is welcome as it’s often felt like going in circles trying to get clear answers on this. We will keep pushing for practical action, better drain and gully maintenance, and stronger flood protection measures across our area.
Finally, we want to say something about St Peter’s Court. The decision to close and sell the scheme is deeply upsetting for the people who live there, their families and the wider community. While we understand the huge financial pressures facing councils, and the very high cost of refurbishing older buildings, we also know this is about far more than bricks and mortar. For the residents, St Peter’s Court is their home, their community, their friendships and their independence.
Throughout this process we have tried to support residents, raise concerns, ask difficult questions and make sure people’s voices were heard. Residents will receive support with moving, including compensation payments and dedicated staff support, and we have been assured that alternative specialist housing is available. But we also understand that moving somewhere else cannot replace the community that people have built there over many years.
Our hearts go out to everyone affected. We will continue to support residents and speak up for them wherever we can as the process moves forward.
David Infield, Andy Haynes, Laurie Needham, Sandra Woodward, Chris O’Neill

Horoscopes for June 2026 By Jeanne Douglas

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

Aries (21 March to 19 April):
Cash gains come easily this month but you are also required to spend it just as quickly! Life has you working hard and yet your creative flair is at an all-time high. Your instincts are also excellent as you seem to be – time and again – falling on your feet when it comes to making choices and decisions. All communications go well, luckily.
Taurus (20 April to. 20 May):
Ideas flood in easily and you’re keen to act on them as soon as possible. Happily, you reign in your impatience so as to finely tune your plans and to double-check the facts. You know that a good deal is hanging on this so it is really important to get right, especially when it comes to financial rewards. Renewed talks get underway.
Gemini (21 May to 21 June):
With both the sun and new moon in your sign this month, you can be sure of finding personal success bringing a good dose of happiness! This has been a long time coming and puts a spring into your step. A new way of making money is certain to succeed if you discuss your proposal with others and follow-up business contacts.
Cancer (22 June to 22 July):
You’re in the mood for business and partners have their clever money-heads on and so together, you make a great team! Some relationships are all set to go quiet and fade a little in your life as changes erode contact time. Study and research go very well indeed especially when undertaken on your own, in relative isolation, strangely.
Leo (23 July to 22 August):
You have to break out of your peace and quiet phase in order to catch up with friends and work colleagues who really do need to hear from you! But it’s romance that is uppermost in your mind and you spend some time together undertaking practical tasks and getting on top of any outstanding jobs. Try to have a night out together.
Virgo (23 August to 21 September):
Life has calmed down considerably over the last few months and yet the dust is still settling down about your ears! Changes for friends and acquaintances affect your social life and yet new opportunities also present themselves. Romance is on your mind but that special person is some distance away right now.
Libra (22 September to 22 October):
A partner is working hard and is acting a little distracted, as if they’re daydreaming but they’re probably just tired. You’re in the mood for deep discussions and heart to heart conversations and so you may find yourself begging for some quality time together. However, your keen intellectual skills are no match for anyone.
Scorpio (23 October to 21 November):
Loved ones are certainly full of energy but have a tendency to be feisty from time to time. You seek out some of your calmer and more self-possessed friends who offer you the peace and tranquillity that you really need. They also offer you much direction in life and come up with a plan to manifest your dearest dreams.
Sagittarius (22 November to 21 December):
Your partner is in a good, strong place and offers you stability and reassurance. Friends gather round, sensing all the great vibes in your life and hoping for some inspiration too! A friendly face helps you out when it comes to study and any research and they could well turn into something of an admirer.
Capricorn (22 December to 19 January):
A partner wants to discuss business ideas, which need more planning. A romance may develop with a soul-mate but they may be just a close friend in the end. You work hard around house and garden and find that your creativity is excellent, helping you to achieve fabulous results and quite effortlessly.
Aquarius (20 January to 18 February):
A partner gets all romantic with you and single Aquarians will find a new sweetheart! Your daily routine is relentless and you’d be forgiven for allowing yourself to be distracted and seeking something a little more relaxing. Trips to watery areas out in the countryside are most attractive, even a visit to the seaside.
Pisces (19 February to 20 March):
Life may have quietened down considerably but you’re still playing catch-up, so things are still a little chaotic as you try to get organised. You may have your work cut out but you can still come up with some original ways of making cash. Petty squabbles threaten the peace but you artfully avoid them! You recharge at home.

Inter Care: A Local Charity Making a Global Difference – And How You Can Help

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

Many people in Syston may not yet have heard of Inter Care, despite the charity being based in Syston itself for more than 50 years.
This small Leicestershire charity has been quietly transforming healthcare for some of the most remote and disadvantaged communities in sub?Saharan Africa – all by giving new purpose to medical items that would otherwise go to waste.
Inter Care supports rural health units across Malawi, Tanzania, and Sierra Leone, that operate with extremely limited resources. Something as simple as a box of dressings, a blood pressure monitor or basic medication can make the difference between a patient receiving treatment or going without.
What local people can donate:
You may already have items at home that could make a huge difference overseas, such as:
Crutches, walking sticks, wheelchairs, or other mobility aids
Small medical devices or monitors
Sterile, in?date, first aid items
Stamps/Jewellery/Printer Cartridges/foreign currency – All these are used to raise important funds for Inter Care
**Please Note we cannot accept medication donations from the general public, this is illegal.
How you can get involved:
People often want to help but aren’t sure where to start. Here are the easiest ways to make an impact:

Donate surplus medical items
If you have mobility aids or small medical supplies, we can put them to good use. Give us a call if you are unsure if what you have is acceptable.
Fundraise with your group, school, or workplace
A coffee morning, dress?down day or sponsored challenge can help send more medical aid where it’s needed most.
Volunteer your time
Whether you have medical experience or simply want to help, we welcome new volunteers.
Spread the word
Sharing our mission with friends, neighbours or local groups helps us reach more people who may have items to donate.
Invite us to speak
We’re always happy to give talks to community groups, schools, or workplaces about the health units we support, and the impact local donations make.
Inter Care is a small charity with a big reach – and the people of Syston can play a meaningful part in that story. Every item donated, every hour volunteered and every conversation shared helps strengthen healthcare for communities that would otherwise go without.
It’s a simple idea with powerful results: reducing waste here at home while strengthening healthcare for communities thousands of miles away.
Contact Us
https://www.Intercare.org.uk
0116 269 5925
info@intercare.org.uk
46 The Half Croft, Syston. LE7 1LD

Latimer Players

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

Hot on the heels of their successful play ‘The Park Bench’, Latimer Players are happy to announce that their next production will be a murder mystery:
A Fateful Fête
Someone’s about to get their just desserts.
The bunting is up, the cakes are iced, and the parish council is doing its best to look organised. But beneath the cheerful chaos of sponge cakes, raffle prizes, and WI rivalries, tensions are rising, and not just in the Victoria sponge.
With the village in shock, an investigator steps in to untangle a web of petty grudges, parish politics, suspicious baking, and questionable characters. Every character has something to hide, and every audience member becomes part of the investigation.
A Fateful Fête is a cosy, comedic murder?mystery evening where you’ll question the suspects, examine the clues, and decide who had the motive, means, and opportunity to turn a friendly village fête into a crime scene.
Will you uncover the truth behind the chaos, or be led astray by red herrings, gossip, and the world’s most dramatic cake table?
The production takes place at Thurcaston Memorial Hall on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th July. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. The hall will be arranged with the popular café-style seating and audience are invited to bring their own drinks and nibbles. There will be a performance and a chance to question the cast to decide ‘who dunnit’. Tickets priced at £8 are available from Christine Deavin, by phoning 0774 047 7746 or email to christinedeavin@gmail.com
Following the murder mystery, rehearsals will start for the annual pantomime in November. If you are interested in getting involved, either on or off stage, please contact the director Laura at latimerplayers@yahoo.com

Leicestershire National Garden Scheme Open Gardens June 2026

admin — Sun, 31 May 2026 23:01:00 +0000

The New Barn in Desford, LE9 9GS opens on 6th and 7th June from 11am to 4pm. A sloping ¾ acre plantsman’s garden with many unusual plants, including the national collection of geranium cultivars.
On the 7th June, a group of gardens opens in Leicester, LE2 1LW, at Stoneygate and Knighton Gardens. There are six very different and interesting small and medium gardens displaying a variety of planting styles with a range of early summer flowering. The gardens are 3m south of Leicester city centre and within a 2m radius in south Leicester. Street parking at all addresses except 20 Ripon St. Gardens are open from 12noon to 5pm one admittance fee for all gardens.
The Cottage, Birstall LE4 4EA opens on the weekend of 13th and 14th June, from 11am to 4pm. A medium-sized town garden wrapped around a C16 cottage with mature evergreens planted with alliums, hosta, ferns, callas, salvias, hardy geraniums, climbers, roses, and wide herbaceous borders.
Opening together the same weekend are two gardens in Newbold Verdon. One admission covers both gardens. The Lodge Brascote, Newbold Verdon,LE9 9LE opens 11am to 6pm on the 13th and 10am to 4pm on the 14th. A large country garden with themed borders, inc moon, pink wedding, bronze and a recently planted golden border to celebrate 50 yrs of gardening. Around the garden and in the greenhouse are plants that have originated in China.
The second garden, The Old Rectory, Newbold Verdon, LE9 9NN opens 11am to 6pm on the 13th and 10am to 4pm on the 14th. There is a large, well-established rose garden which flowers from June to October. Many established trees oaks, horse-chestnuts, mulberry, poplar, birch, olive, and sweet chestnut.
The Secret Garden at Glenfield Hospital, LE3 9QP opens on the 27th and 28th June, 10.30am to 3pm. Set within the grounds of the Glenfield Hospital, the Secret Garden is 1 acre in size, hidden behind the walls of a Victorian Walled garden which has been lovingly designed and restored for the benefit of all those who visit it and in consideration of the rich history and heritage of the garden and the wider Leicester Frith site.
For more details of our open gardens, visit https://www.ngs.org.uk
Thanks to our volunteers and visitors, in 2025, Leicestershire opened 37 Gardens and had 9,289 visitors, resulting in net donation income of £69,094.
Carol Bartlett, Press Officer for Leicestershire