Leicester FOE is organising a peaceful demonstration against a GM oil seed rape crop which is about to come into flower. That is when most of the contamination will occur for local beekeepers and organic farmers.
   The farmer who has planted the crop, Rad Thomas, recently retired as master of the Quorn Hunt. He will be making around £10,000 from the 25 acre trial. His address is Whatoff Lodge, Woodhouse, Loughborough.
   The walk was organised for 10 March, but has been postponed due to Foot & Mouth outbreak. Further details from Alan or Celia on 0116 291 3098.

Over 200 people voted against the GM farmscale trial at a parish meeting in Woodhouse Eaves on 24 October. They included local farmers, beekeepers, and Charnwood councillors. Only two people voted to support the trial.
   Farmer Rad Thomas stayed away. His case was put by representatives of the biotech company Aventis and the Department of the Environment. FOE and the Soil Association put the case against. Leicester FOE helped local people organise the meeting.
   To support the anti-GM campaign, email Alan Gledhill, Leicester FOE at alan@gledhill099.freeserve.co.uk, or telephone 0116 291 3098. Alan will be organising visits to local organic farms in the spring - let him know if you are interested.

5 year freeze supported

Following the public meeting, Charnwood Borough Council's Cabinet has agreed to sign up to the Five Year Freeze Campaign, with all party support.
   The Five Year Freeze is now supported by most of the District Councils in Leicestershire as well as the County Council.