MeridenMag Summer 2015

Meriden Mag

MERIDEN COVER 2015 SUMMER.qxp_Layout 1 18/05/2015 12:24 Page 1

Summer 2015

See inside for Summer Events in the Village • Local Election Results Reports of Vandalism at Meriden Sports Park Help the Hedgehog Campaign News and Photos from the Schools and Scout and Brownie Groups

Happenings at Meriden school

Year 1 were set the challenge of creating an aquarium using a paper plate.

The results were absolutely fantastic, as you can see from the photos. So much effort went into these aquariums.

– Very well done year 1!

Earth day We all had a fantastic day on Wednesday 25th March celebrating Earth day! We came to school dressed in blue and green and we had an assembly. During the assembly we learnt all about climate change and how it is affecting plants, animals and habitats all around the world.

Throughout the day the children took part in various activities such as making bunting to promote climate change, making earth day promises, creating large earths out of hand prints and some classes even made a human earth!

The children were eco warriors all day and reminded the teachers to turn their lights and projectors off.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHILD I would just like to say a big THANKYOU to all of those parents that attended and put in the commitment to take part in the 10 week course that Andrea (Children Centre worker) and I delivered to you.

Well Done to: Kay Jones; James Pitt; Stella Thomas; Claire Hopkins; Michelle Gilroy; Lynn Collins for completing the course and graduating in style on Wednesday 25th March 2015.I hope that you enjoyed the sessions and that you feel more knowledgeable and ready for the daily battles that can occur when raising children!!!!

Sarah Parker

Our School Vision

Inspection Update

Building on our school motto, we launched our new vision statement on Thursday 21st May with a balloon launch at our family picnic. We are proud that the vision, written by a consultation group of pupils, parents, staff and governors, fully reflects the aims and ethos that we hold close at Meriden.

Following our Ofsted report in October, we were visited by a HMI (one of Her Majesty’s Inspectors) and were delighted that he confirmed that the school has effective leadership and governance and that we are on the road to outstanding at our next full inspection. I am so proud of the children and the staff—we were praised for being a happy school: ‘Staff morale is high and relationships between pupils and staff are trusting, respectful and positive.’ Attendance rates remain well above the national average, reflecting how much pupils like coming to school and how supportive parents are in ensuring pupils attend regularly.’

An outstanding education centred on Friends, Faith and Lifelong Learning.

Friends… ♦ To encourage positive relationships that are characterised by care and empathy, building respect for themselves and others in a diverse society ♦ To help build a happy, safe and interconnected community that celebrates life within the school family and the wider village context Faith… ♦ To value all as a gift from God where each individual, within the school family, has the opportunity to explore their own potential and purpose ♦ To offer an education that has its foundations in the Christian faith that seeks to bring life to all we do Life-long learning ♦ To encourage a love of learning through a vibrant and inclusive curriculum which actively enables all children to reach their full potential ♦ To equip all pupils with the skills required to succeed in life Residential Trips

Year 5 have visited Kingswood in Doncaster for a bush craft experience, the aim being to help them to develop selfconfidence, to work creatively to solve a series of challenging problems and to teach practical bush craft, survival and teamwork skills. In a couple of weeks’ time Year 6 are visiting ‘Red Ridge’ in Wales for an activity packed week which will involve pot-holing, climbing and canoeing to name but a few of the things on offer.

Thank you to all our children, parents and families for your continued support.

End of Year Events

As usual, there are many events planned for the last term. As well as our Key Stage 2 performance, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, we have our annual music evening taking place in June to showcase the fantastic musical talent we have. We brought forward our sports week to May which culminates in our Olympic finals in front of parents and family. We will finish the term with our End of Year Service at St Laurence’s Church and then will enjoy a final word from Year 6 as they leave us and move on to the next exciting stage in their education at secondary school.

The children will all be looking forward to a well earned summer break and, whatever you are planning, everyone at Meriden Primary School wishes you all a safe, sunny and happy time.

Lucy Winkler, Headteacher, Meriden CE Primary School

School Improvements

I am pleased to announce that our school will be having a new entrance and welcome area built over the summer holiday. The existing staffroom will also be expanded and from September will be the new home for our Early Birds and Owls Club, and Mischievous Monkeys, our new holiday play scheme.

We are all very excited and look forward to being able to greet parents and visitors in a comfy and welcoming environment that matches the rest of our fantastic school!

Friday3 July from 5-7pm.

*Bouncy Castles*Hot Dogs *Candy Floss * *Lucky Dips*Raffles *Fun for All*

ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS Assistant curate Rev Lynda Lilley 01676 522825 Mobile 07811 545 247 (for emergency use only) email: rev.lynda.lilley@talktalk.net +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Lay Reader: Peter Wright 01676 522414 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Church Wardens: Jonathan Douglas 01676 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++522455 John Baker 01676-522939. www.stlaurence-meriden.co.uk Although I had trained as a tea

Services are held on the 1st, 3rd and 4th Sunday at 10.30 am There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. (Eccesiastes 3:1) This is one of my favourite Bible verses immortalised by The Byrd’s song “Turn! Turn! Turn!” There are times when everything changes but everything remains the same. I’m delighted to be writing to you as the new minister of St Laurence church and would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself.

I'm Lynda Lilley.

I was born and bred in Great Lumley, a small mining village in Durham whereI grew up within a community not dissimilar to that of Meriden.

At the tender age of 18 I left for university. I studied Computer Science and Mathematics teaching at Warwick University.

It was at this time that I met my first husband – I married and settled to life in Coventry. Then I went into industry where I worked as a computer programmer and systems analyst. I became severely deafened after a series of ear infections. This turned my world upside down. Everything had changed, yet everything remained the same. I had to give up work but I was fortunate enough to have another focus – my then 8 month old daughter. We were blessed with a further daughter and it was through my daughters' baptisms that I returned to God and the church. Slowly as my confidence returned, partly through learning sign language, I felt able to take a fuller part in the church's life and I was involved in setting up Coventry Deaf church. I began to feel the call to take an even bigger step into church life and was encouraged to explore becoming ordained. When I look back I find it difficult to believe the person I have become from the difficulties and challenges I faced but one thing that I know is that I have been gently guided and taught by God feeding me 'comfort cookies' allowing me to take things step by step.

Sadly, I had just begun my training to become a priest when my husband passed away. Once again everything had changed but everything remained the same. I continued in my training supported by many wonderful people and was ordained The Christmas tree in 2011 and was curate at All Saints, Allesley. festival at St Laurence, Since then there have been many moments when everything has changed yet everything remained same.page I was see the centre forblessed the with becoming a grandmother (though I still don't feel old enough!) Later that year, I had a chance meeting with Mark, a winning tree fellow widower, we spent many hours on the telephone, arranged to meet again and the rest is history, as they say. Mark and I married on Easter Monday this year – increasing my family to now include one son, four daughters and a grandson!

I was delighted at the end of last year when the possibility of ministering at Meriden became apparent. Thankfully that became a reality – I'm overjoyed to be here with you as both your minister and neighbour. I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone and working with, and for, you all.

The Parish office (based at The Rectory) will be open Monday and Tuesday afternoons for enquiries. I will be available at other times for pastoral visits, or simply a cup of tea and a chat.

With Blessings, Lynda Lilley

Church Opening on Sunday afternoons.

Visit your historic, beautiful, and peaceful church between 12.00 and 4.30 on Sunday afternoons from April 19th to October 18th. Please also offer to help by being a steward for a few hours.

Friends of Meriden Churchyard.

This group meets at the Church at 10.00 am on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month to do some gardening and other maintenance in the Churchyard for a couple of hours, and also to share coffee, cake, and conversation.

Vacancy! Church Organist.

After something like 60 years (amazing) of playing the organ for us at St. Laurence Church, and at St. James, Packington, Marian Theobald would like to wind down a little and play the organ less frequently. If you would like to play occasionally or frequently for our services at St. Laurence, please contact the churchwardens, we would be interested to hear from you.

gold Hotel”

The Firs Open Day

At Meriden Village Hall The monthly cinema screenings have seen a significant increase in attendance during the last twelve months and we feel confident that the Big Picture Show will continue to be a permanent fixture in the Village’s diary. The Big Picture Show Team would like to thank the regular attendees for their loyal and enthusiastic support and if you haven’t managed to catch a film yet, then give it a try.

Saturday 27th June 7.30pm

“THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING” (12A) Starring Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones in this Oscar-winning production portraying the extraordinary story of Stephen Hawking, one of the world’s greatest living minds, who falls in love with a fellow Cambridge student.

This first class production is sure to be in great demand. So book your tickets early to be sure of a seat.

We are most grateful to Sarah at “Fredanita Flowers & Gifts” on the Village Green for continuing to sell tickets for us.

Tickets and advance reservations are also available from

Chris Copper (01676 522645) We shall then have a screening break in July and August but watch out for posters and details in the September Mag for an exciting autumn and winter programme.

Saturday 20th June 11.00 am -3.00 pm Tea Coffee and Soft Drinks Tombola, Cakes, Bring and Buy Raffle and other stalls Queen’s Head VE Day Street Party On May 9th the Queen’s Head held a street party to celebrate 70 years since Victory in Europe.

A big thank you goes out to everyone involved in making a great day happen, and raising funds for Help for Heroes and Ryan’s Fund: Pertemps, Chris Boraston, Colum O’Neill, Stuart Bonnar, Mark Chute, Laurie Chute, Bull’s Head, Windmill Golf Club, Ace Garage, Stones Garage, W E S T Group, Coventry Rugby Club, Forest of Arden, Connor Hughes, Carl Semple, Terry Griffiths and David McGrath

Take away service

Come and visit the Meriden Spice, Meriden’s newest Indian restaurant.

With a name inspired by its location the restaurant introduces high quality Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine.

10% discount on collection Free home delivery service 4 miles radius Minimum order £15

Saj, the proprietor who has been in this business for over 20 years both locally and nationally, has brought his experience to Meriden and would like to welcome both his old and new customers to Meriden Spice

Meriden Spice, Old Road, Meriden, CV7 7JP Tel: 01676 523740 Entrance and parking at rear of Queen’s Head Pub

One free starter onion bhajees or samosas with every Takeaway order of £20 or more Not to be used with any other voucher

In Meriden Minister: Rev Andrew Charlesworth BSc BA Keep a look out for Tel: 01676 533737 - Phone to arrange marriages, baptisms and funerals Services: Sunday 10:30am. Messy Church 4.00pm 4th Sunday of the Month I’ve been thinking about aging this month! They do say that the first sign of aging is waking up with that morning-after feeling, and you didn't do anything the night before.

Or you know you're getting old when you stop buying green bananas. And a sure sign of aging is when you lean over to pick something up off the floor, and you ask yourself if there is anything else you need to do while you are down there.

On my birthday this year I received a very special phone call. It was from the Health Centre in Balsall Common. Now I have reached the grand old age of 45 they wanted to offer me a health check.

I suppose the idea of a health check is to spot potential problems and issues before they lead to serious consequences on my health. They took a blood sample to measure cholesterol and blood sugar, plus the usual measurements of weight and blood pressure that you might expect. I was asked a series of questions relating to diet and exercise, including how much housework I do each week. My wife was interested to hear what I had to say in relation to that question!

The very last bit of teaching that Jesus gave to his disciples is a spiritual health check. It is known as the parable of the sheep and the goats and appears in Matthew 25: 31-46. For anyone who takes the teaching of Jesus seriously it is a very challenging passage indeed. Jesus directly links our actions in helping those in need to whether or not we are worthy to be seen as followers of Christ. And just to be absolutely clear that we understand this challenging teaching, he repeats it four times!

I see this parable as an important spiritual health check. So for example, if we think about our lives as Christians and realise that we never feed the hungry or visit those who are sick, it is a sign on our spiritual health check that we might be living in self-centred ways. Or if we realise when thinking about this passage that we never seem to encounter those who are thirsty or strangers needing a welcome, then it is a sign that we have become too isolated from those in need. If we do not address these issues as Christians, it can lead to that most serious of conditions for a follower of Jesus, hardheartedness.

This parable is directed at Christians and it is a deeply challenging reminder that our lives as disciples should bear THE CHRISTIANS OF MERIDEN witness to the truth we profess. It is probably a profound JOIN TOGETHER FOR understatement to say that we are not always very good at this. But perhaps it also serves as a reminder to everybody, Christian or non-Christian alike. Perhaps it reminds us that it is not just our physical health that we need to check on. Not only is our emotional health important, but alongside that there is our deeper spiritual health also to consider. We are not always very good on keeping our general health in mind, hence the phone call on my birthday, but we are even worse FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY where our emotional and spiritual health is concerned.

CRAFT ACTIVITIES FOR 3-10 YEAR OLDS Perhaps if you think it is time to do something about that then MUSIC, SINGING AND A STORY I would like to invite you to see if the church is a good place FOLLOWED

BY FELLOWSHIP AND to start.

Love, peace and joy. Andrew 7th June Kinwalsey Tree Walk starts 2.30pm from Meriden Green, service at 4.00pm, followed by a picnic in the grounds of Rose Cottage return transport provided (please take your own picnic)

The Methodist Church Hall is available for hire.

Please contact Alan and Maureen Gabbitas On 01676 522148

BREAKFAST VENUE: MERIDEN METHODIST CHURCH 3rd SATURDAY IN THE MONTH 20th JUNE, 18th JULY 9.00 AM COME ALONG AND BRING A FRIEND Joint association between *M C F Life Church Meriden* *Meriden Methodist Church* * St Laurence Anglican Church* Keep a lookout for details of our BBQ held at St Laurence Church in August

Queens Head Old Road Meriden Monday night is music night come along and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx.

Meriden Wasps from

The Heart of England ‘SPECIALISTS’ FOR THE CONTROL OF:

Wasps June 1st 8th 15th 22nd 29th

Steve Best Sam Southall August 3rd Chrissy TBA 10th Stevie Best Paul Tracini 17th Keith Brett Sam Southall 24th Natasha 31st Sam Southall July 6th Micky Dean 13th Ruthie Woods SMITH SLATING ALLAN 20th Sam Southall 27th Sam Richards

Now serving Breakfast on Sunday mornings 10.00am-1.00pm Full English £5.25.

Pub lunches Mon – Sat 12.00- 2.30pm Pop in for good food and a warm welcome Take away available 01676 522256

Balsall Common Monday morning including an extra class for babies and toddlers

GUARANTEED WORK DISCOUNTS FOR STATE PENSIONERS FAST, EFFICIENT, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL

Tel: 01676 521610 Mobile: 07843 086364 FULLY INSURED/QUALIFIED WARWICKSHIRE/COVENTRY/SOLIHULL

Doug Bacon www.meridenwasps.co.uk They say life’s a journey; trouble is I don’t know if my train hasn’t left or if it’s just arrived at the station.

• • • • • •

Servicing Repairs Tyres Exhausts Suspensions Brakes

Call in for a quotation for your motoring needs

01676 521010 Meriden Garage, Birmingham Road Millison’s Wood CV5 9AZ

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MCFMCF-life Church, Meriden.

Following a really good joint Lent study leading up to Easter with Meriden Methodist church and St. Laurence, we then had a great joint Easter celebration meeting with the Meriden Methodist church on Easter Sunday. It's good to get together as Christians to celebrate the risen Saviour, Jesus and acknowledge Him as King of kings, and Lord of lords.

Often different denominations run shy of each other, but what is special to me, is that here in Meriden the three fellowships often come together and are constantly looking to see what we can do in unity with each other to proclaim and show that we are three different flavours of one church, with Christ in the centre.

We at MCF believe that God is opening up new opportunities for us and we want our name, who we are and what we're about, to reflect this as we move forward. As an Assemblies of God (AOG) church we are: Apostolically led, Relationally connected and Missionally focused. As a result, 'Meriden Christian Fellowship' has changed its name slightly and is now called 'MCF-Life Church' (please check out our new web site). Our desire is that God breathes new life into His church, and that with Him we see lives and hearts changed and people set free.

We have recently joined with other churches in the surrounding villages such as Hampton, Balsall Common, Barston etc. and are jointly running with them a monthly celebration meeting called 'Filling Station' which is an opportunity for Christians and others to go deeper with God. They are held at Hampton Manor Hotel on the first Monday of the month.

We have run two of these events which have been very successful with really positive feedback; by the time this is published we will have run our third. Also don't forget that Lyn and I are also running monthly coffee mornings in the 1st Meriden Scout Hall and occasional coffee mornings at the Firs, so why not keep your eyes out for the posters advertising these and come along and join us.

To all who read this; 'The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace.' (Numbers 6:24-26).

Blessings Kevin and Lyn.

Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life!

Do you want to clean up?

No? Then let me do it for you. I have twenty years’ experience in cleaning and am trustworthy and hard working References can be provided.

Contact Rachel on 07518538829

Saturday 13 June 7.30pm The Studio Warwick Arts Centre

and Saturday 4th July 7.30pm The Railway Bar and Grill, Spon End, Coventry CV1 3HF

PHYSIOTHERAPY REFLEXOLOGY

Treatment for pain, stress, acute and chronic conditions Local home visits to ladies available

Alison Stain M.C.S.P.,M.S.R., HCPC. Registered The Therapy Centre, Balsall Villa 287 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common.

Tel : 01676 522284

Please note admission to the concert at Warwick Arts Centre is by advance ticket only.

All tickets for the Railway Bar & Grill are £5.00 each.

For tickets Please ring John Bentick 07716 721 467 or Val Martin 01676 522963 Our charity for this year is “The Macular Society” “Support throughout central vision loss”

A Message from Caroline Spelman MP I would like to begin by thanking you for your support at the last election.

I am delighted to have been re-elected to serve as the MP for the Meriden Constituency for a fifth term, and I will continue to represent the views of constituents in Westminster and work hard to improve and protect our communities.

V. E. Day After a long six week election campaign, May 8th was a day to remember; a national celebration of the victory of the Allies in the Second World War, and together we commemorated May 8th 1945, the date that World War II officially ended in Europe. Much like in 1945, people around the country and the constituency held street parties to bring together local communities, remembering the sacrifice and bravery of all who fought and died to defeat Nazi Germany.

To mark the 70th anniversary of VE Day I joined the Bishop of Birmingham, the Right Reverend David Urquhart, when he dedicated the new Dorridge war memorial outside Sainsbury’s. Roads were closed in Meriden village to allow a local pub to hold a street party as they did 70 years ago in 1945. There were also two full days of entertainment in the Castle Bromwich Hall Garden, with vintage stalls, displays and music to commemorate World War II and celebrate the Allied victory 70 years ago.

At dusk, a beacon was lit in Solihull as a chain of 100 beacons were lit around the country. The Chelmsley Wood branch of the Royal British Legion, as the national custodian of Remembrance, held a touching service in the Memorial Gardens attended by many serving and ex-service personnel.

Here in the Meriden Constituency, we paid a fitting tribute to those who did so much to defend this country and ensure victory in Europe.

I would urge local residents to look for their own photographs and memorabilia from May 8th 1945 as The Knowle Society is running an exhibition for the duration of the summer to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VE Day. From Castle Bromwich in the north to Dorridge in the south, street parties were held throughout the constituency in 1945, and it would be great to bring together memories to support a local history exhibition.

It is right that we all took some time to reflect on the sacrifices made, not just by those in the Armed Forces, but by civilians such as Land Girls and those in Reserved Occupations and I am glad that the whole country had the chance to take part in commemorating the 70th anniversary and remembering those who gave so much for our freedom.

I wish you all a happy and healthy summer. Caroline Spelman

To contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery please contact Katy Steele On 0121 711 7029 or email caroline@carolinespelman.com Meetings are held on the first Monday of the month 7.30pm at Meriden Village Hall.

Meriden Floral Society Meetings are held at Meriden village Hall 7.30pm – 9.30pm approx.

On the 3rd Monday of every month

Forthcoming Events: 16 June

Club Annual Outing

11 July

Cakes and Pudding Afternoon Tea Party Courtesy of Mrs June Brown 2 - 5 pm

20 July

My World of flowers – Sue Smithson

New members are always welcome.

For more information please contact Mo Reynolds 01676 521457

Contact Flick Blewitt 01676 523229 We all felt that ‘spring is in the air’ after David Howell’s visit in March. He brought a wide variety of plants and gave us lots of ideas of different things to grow for spring colour. He talked in depth about snowdrops, revealing that there are hundreds of varieties and finally showed some beautiful pictures of gardens.

In April we welcomed Jackie Brighouse who told us about her experiences as working as a ‘Posh Char’ or should that be a ‘Char to the Posh?’ Very amusing and revealing.

Paul Taberner, a forensic scientist was our speaker in May and he regaled us with a lot of amusing anecdotes such as the amateur thief who left a bag of £2 coins behind as he thought they were medals not money!

In this centenary year of the W.I. there is to be a garden party at Buckingham palace for W. I. members on 2nd June. The Queen, who is a member of Sandringham W. I., and the Princess Royal, will attend the AGM at The Royal Albert Hall on 4th June. W. I members will be able to watch the proceedings at Cineworld in Solihull

Future Programme: Lynn Hockton ‘Going to Town Monday 1st June (Shops in Coventry) Monday 6th July

Georgie Hale Shipwrecked in Antarctica

Monday 3rd August Member’s evening with games

Visitors always welcome

A family run business, for the ultimate ladies hair, barbering and beauty / experience Summer Specials ‘Special Express’ Facial only £15!

‘Summer hands and feet shellac gel polish only £30!

‘Leg bronzer’, file and polish only £20!

Opening hours:

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

9.00-7.00pm 9.00-5.00pm 9.00-8.00pm 9.00-5.00pm 8.30-4.30pm

Gift boxes, vouchers and couple packages available

Meriden Fish and Chips The Green, Meriden

Under new management since April 2014

Local businesses supporting each other – all clients having cut and finish at Fordes claim a 10% discount at Meriden Spice

Pensions Investments Protection Savings Employee benefits • Inheritance Tax • • • • •

Chartered Financial Planners and Employee Benefit Consultants

Opening hours

Jamieson Christie Wealth Management Ltd Regent House 430 – 432 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common CV7 7ER Tel 01676 532 210

Monday – Saturday 11.30-2.00pm & 4.15 -9.30pm Closed Sundays

www.jamiesonchristie.com Email: mail@jamiesonchristie.com

01676 523476

Jamieson Christie Wealth Management Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

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J B Decorators and Property Services • • • • • • •

General Property maintenance Insurance Work Undertaken Domestic and Commercial Work Plastering No job too small Coving Fully insured Carpentry Work Over 30 years’ Tiling experience

Call for a free quote 07966186957 JimmyBailiedec@hotmail.com 147, Elmdon Lane, Marston Green B377DN

MIDLANDS CLEANERS Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Services • Window Cleaning • Fascia & Soffit Cleaning • Gutter & Cladding Cleaning • Conservatory Roof and Patio Cleaning

Adam Eales 0794 389 3354 midlandscleaners@mail.com

DO YOU NEED A CLEANER? Do you want someone to do all those household jobs you haven’t got time for?

Then call Jenny now on 07901 530861 Domestic cleaning, Office cleaning Professional cleaning service

EDEN HOLISTIC DOG FOOD 5 STAR RATED DOG FOOD (Check out the review of the food you feed your dog with the review for Eden on www.allaboutdogfood.co.uk)

Made from only the best ingredients:All meat and fish of human grade and sourced within the UK. No animal derivatives, by products or flavours.

Herbs, vitamins and minerals with joint support and prebiotics.

TOTALLY GRAIN FREE – NO FILLERS HIGH DENSITY FOOD USE LESS FOR EACH FEED 2 VARIETIES AVAILABLE: EDEN ORIGINAL 80% Chicken, Salmon, Herring, Duck and Egg EDEN CATCH OF THE DAY 80% Salmon and Herring, including seasonally available Cod, Haddock, Hake, Plaice and Pollock Local prices for 15kg (Smaller quantities can be provided):

Original: £50 Catch of the Day: £53 Tel: 01676 522466 to order and collect Nutritional and general dog advice given Dog pet sitting service provided – Days, weekends or longer in a non-kennel environment Notice on a farmer’s field gate: The farmer allows you to cross the field for free, but the bull charges!

Balsall Common Country Market A weekly market is held at Balsall Common Village Hall, Station Road CV7 7EX every Saturday from 10.00 - 11.30am and the first Sunday of the month at the Saracen’s Head from 1 - 4pm Home baking and preserves, meat, plants and seasonal vegetables, crafts and homemade cards

Hampers can be ordered and delivered countrywide.

Contact 01676 534148

A free cup of tea or coffee with this voucher

For more details call June Smitten on 01676 523007

The other day somebody asked me if I would share my secrets to a good cake pop. I replied that I have never made a cake pop. I explained that I don't sell them as they are too faffy and small, I didn't think they were worth it for the little amount of money one would pay for them. But when I went home, I just had to make some. What great fun! Who knew? Whilst I stand by the idea that they are financially not worth selling, I wouldn’t hesitate to make a batch with my friends’ kids, just for fun and to teach them some cooking skills. It’s more like an art lesson than cooking. Perfect for a rainy day in the holidays.

If you are going to attempt this with the children, or for the children, it’s a good idea to first be organised in prepping your ingredients.

Firstly you need cake. So bake one the day before. Just a little plain vanilla one. We will be using 400g of cake to make 12 cake pops, so adjust this depending on how many you want to make.

Cake ingredients: Put all the cake ingredients into a large bowl and beat with an electric hand whisk or a 175 g butter (at room temperature), wooden spoon until smooth and evenly mixed. Put into a greased small cake tin and cut into large pieces bake at 180°C/gas mark 4 for 25 mins or until golden brown and knife comes out clean 175 g self-raising flour when pushed into center of cake. Cool on a wire rack and wrap in cling film when cold 175 g caster sugar to keep fresh.

1/2 tbsp baking powder Next, make up the buttercream. Again, this is a step that can be done a day or two 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract ahead. Buttercream must be made with butter.. Just hard butter, softened. We are only 3 large eggs looking for 200g of buttercream per 12-15 cake pops, and this recipe makes about that.

Butter cream ingredients: Put the butter, vanilla extract, half of the milk, and half the icing sugar in a large bowl 90 g butter (at room temperature), and beat until smooth. Beat in the remaining icing sugar, and pour in the rest of the cut into large pieces milk if needed to make the icing the right consistency. Whip until it whitens.

1/2 tbsp vanilla extract Now that you are all prepared to make the cake pops, you can start rolling the balls!

1-2 tbsp milk Firstly, cut off all the crusts so you are left with smooth cake, and crumble the 400g 175 g icing sugar, sifted sponge into a large bowl with your fingertips. Don't use a machine, just your fingers.

Then stir in 200g buttercream. Mash down with the back of your spoon until thoroughly mixed in. Once stirred use fingers again, until it’s all mixed into one sticky ball.

Now, I have a cake pop scoop, which you can buy very cheaply online (Ebay), but you can also use your hands to form balls.

Obviously a little scoop makes them rounder, but you can roll, and squeeze your mixture into balls. Weigh them if you want them all uniform size. Or use an ice cream scoop to ensure each ball has the same amount of cake mixture. I get about a dozen out of this mix.

Wetting your hands a little helps to smooth the outside nicely.

Once you are happy with the uniform round shape of your balls of cake, put them on a plate or tray, and pop them in the freezer for an hour to firm up. Or in a fridge for four hours or overnight if time isn’t a problem.

Weigh your chocolate in a glass bowl. I use “cake covering” or white chocolate from the supermarket, but you can also buy “candy melts” specifically for making cake pops. They come in different colours and are easy but a little dearer. I also add a teeny bit of vegetable fat (ie Trex) or vegetable oil, just to make it easier to dip. I use 300g, and freeze what is left over. You need more than you use in order to coat them properly.

Remove your cake balls, and, using a skewer, make a little hole for your lolly stick to go in. You now need to leave your pops a few minutes to warm up just a little (or the chocolate will fall off as the condensation begins to expel from the ball). Use this time to heat up your chocolate in the microwave.

I use my microwave on 60% to heat chocolate. I stop it every minute to stir, or there is a danger it will burn in the middle. You need it to be runny. At this point you can add a little colouring if you wish, stirring well. Use concentrated and not water based- or your chocolate will seize.

Dip your lolly stick in the chocolate, about an inch, and then fix it into the cake pop. The chocolate will set quickly to make it sit in the ball securely. Then holding the stick, dip your ball into the chocolate, fully submerged and pull it out, twirling it slowly whilst upside down to get an even coating on your cake pop. Turn it up the right way and clean the stick at the top with your finger if necessary. Pop your pop into a polystyrene or foam block. And move on to the next one… see.. I told you it was fun. We had a great time making these. The girls decorated them afterwards with stars and faces and piping but these were extra because we had the time and being a cupcake factory, we had it all to hand. It really depends on how much time you want to put into something that is gone in just one bite!

Have a great summer good people of Meriden! ☺

Balsall Common U3A Are you retired or semi-retired; have you considered joining the Balsall Common U3A? The local U3A is part of a national voluntary learning co-operative whose aim is to encourage activities for people no longer is full time employment. Members join not only to learn new subjects but also to meet and socialise with likeminded people. We have 25 active groups providing something different on each week day.

Beside the group activities, each month we have a core meeting. Included in the core meeting is a talk on subjects of interest to the group, the subjects and speakers for the next few months are as follows: Date Topic Speaker 22nd June 2015 Police Dog Breeding and Training, Holly Lane David Raymond 27th July 2015 The Life and Times of Michelangelo Margaret-Louise O’Keeffe 24th August 2015 The FEPOW – Far Eastern Prisoner of War - Story Ian Lester Core meetings are held in the Balsall Common Village Hall, Station Road and start at 2:00 pm.

Prospective members are welcome to attend.

For more information see our web site www.balsallcommonu3a.org or telephone Peter Calver 01676 535318.

A Coventry Way Challenge (See pictures on centre colour pages)

The 2015 annual 40 mile challenge took place on April 12th starting and finishing at The Queens Head, Meriden.

The 250 entry limit was reached well before the end of January. On the day the walkers were starting from before 6 am, with runners having the benefit of a lie in! The quickest around was Eoin O’Flynn of Leamington Spa in 5 hours and 32 minutes, sixteen minutes ahead of Kenilworth man, Graham Stephens. Graham was 7 minutes ahead of Jakob Siacan from Coventry. Leading woman was Mary Head from Solihull in 7:20, with Sarah Booker (Rugby) 4 minutes behind. Third woman 2 minutes later was Tracy Avill, also from Rugby.

Geoff Wheeler from Solihull took 12:35 and had this to say the following day – “I’m aching all over and have a blister on my right heel but I’m very pleased to have completed the ‘Coventry Way Challenge’. Please accept my thanks and pass on my appreciation to your colleagues for the first class organisation. The friendliness and support at the start, finish and checkpoints was most appreciated and it got me to the finish. On a personal note, I only saw one gentleman walker who looked about my age. Obviously I did not see everyone but I wonder how many ‘silly old fools’ like me took part (I will be 74 in July). Thanks again.”

We expect to see Geoff take part again in 2016, why don’t you? The exact Sunday date is yet to be determined at the time of writing; the date will be announced as soon as available on our web-site with entries open in early September. www.acoventryway.org.uk

Lavender Hall Lane Berkswell CV7 7BN 01676 530 299 / 07949 119 436 Cafe open to the public from 8.00am – 2.00pm week days and now until 3.30pm Saturday & Sunday Serving hot and cold food Specialising in an all day Breakfast for £4.20!

“Coffee and Cake” We are pleased to be able to offer our customers freshly ground Coffee & homemade cakes served daily

Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk

Introductory Offer Coffee and cake £3.00

Terry and Mike’s Charity Bike Ride Terry Dyer (of Tom’s Butcher’s fame) and his friend Mike Baker from Balsall Common are taking part in the Malin to Mizen Bike Ride at the end of May 2015 to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care The ride over 7 days covers 428 miles from Malin in the north of Ireland to Mizen Head in the south.

They are now cycling over 100 miles a week in training for the big event and would like your support.

An update from Terry: “Big big thanks to the North Warwickshire golf club for allowing us to hold our second foot golf tournament on their beautiful course on Sunday 3rd May The total amount raised so far is £6,558.00 and still payments are coming in. I am nearly at the end of my yearlong fund raising campaign just 428 miles to cycle in Ireland to go really!

So many people have helped hit this great amount so on behalf of Marie Curie Cancer Care -Thank you, together we have really made a difference.”

Please see centre pages for photographs of the golf day and watch out for a full report of Terry’s ride in the autumn issue of the Meriden Mag

To sponsor Terry and Mike please go to: www.justgiving.com/Mike-Trigg-In-Ireland

T’ai Chi

and Meditation and Relaxation

Come and discover how the beautiful flowing movements of this ancient art can improve your wellbeing. Relax and enjoy simple calming relaxation and meditation techniques.

Mondays 9.30-10.30am Meriden Village Hall Call Jacqui on

WARWICK OFFICE BALSALL COMMON OFFICE 61 Coten End 2 Meeting House Lane Warwick CV34 4NU Balsall Common CV7 7FX Tel:01926 499889 Tel 01676 533755 Fax: 01926 499552 Fax 01676 533699 www.macnamaraking.com

07703 345210

…the perfect start to your day!

CAMEO Come and Meet Each Other at the Village Hall on the 4th Friday of the month at 2.00 p.m.

CAMEO

In February we took part in a class of extended exercise for the over 60’s conducted

by Pat Tanner. This was th Come Each at the on the Friday of Itthe originally started by and Age Meet Concern in Other the 1970’s forCommunity older peopleCentre and others with4 disabilities. has roots in month at 2.00and p.m. exercise, health, movement dance. Participants are encouraged to ‘keep fit’ because it is good to exercise as it maintains strength and improves balance and co-ordination as well as being fun. Balls, scarves, hoops and chairs are all used and the exercise is carried out to music. We all enjoyed this very much and as a result several people have now joined the fortnightly class. .

At our Easter meeting we invited back David Crout who gave an illustrated talk on the life of John Newton, the author of the hymn ‘Amazing Grace’. John Newton was born in 1725, the son of a commander of a merchant ship. When John was 11 he went to sea with his father and made six voyages with him until his father retired.

He was then press ganged into joining H.M.S. Harwich but deserted; after his re-capture he was flogged and demoted. At his request, he transferred to a slave ship and was left in Sierra Leone where he became the servant of a slave trader. However, he was treated worse than the slaves from whom he had to beg food. Finally, he was rescued by a ship name The Greyhound which nearly capsized during a terrible storm on the voyage home.

John was a terrible reprobate, arrogant and insubordinate and also “made it my study to tempt and seduce others”. He was sure he was going to die and so asked the Lord for mercy. The ship was saved and it is generally thought this marked his conversion to Christianity but David Crout said this was not entirely true.

John reverted to his old ways until he became ill with a violent fever on another slave vessel and then remembering his earlier promises asked for God’s mercy and forgiveness; this was the turning point in his life.

He applied to become an Anglican Minister but was refused at first. However, he eventually became a curate at Olney where he became friends with the poet William Cowper and together they wrote hundreds of hymns the best known being Amazing Grace, How sweet the name of Jesus sounds and Glorious things of Thee are spoken. He was an ally of William Wilberforce and lived long enough to see The Slave Trade Act passed. As David Crout said, John progressed from being a sinner to a wonderful Christian leaving a great legacy.

In April twenty five of us had lunch at The Lavender Tea Rooms in Bracey’s Garden Centre in Bickenhill. We all agreed the lunch had been delicious and there was such a large and varied choice of desserts that we had a problem choosing! On the way out we couldn’t resist buying some garden plants.

We look forward to welcoming more friends to our meetings so if you need information or a lift please telephone: Ellen 522534 or Pam 523372 Forthcoming Meetings:-.

26th June –‘Holiday at Home’ in Berkswell.

24th July – Strawberries and sharing favourite pieces.

28th August – Stephanie and Ken Sherlock talk about their ‘Visit to Africa’.

AGUAFLAME UK (MERIDEN) Boiler repairs and servicing.

Your local expert for NG and LPG plumbing repairs and bathrooms

Terry Griffiths 01676 523192 07970 119142

LARCH TREE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE TREATMENT OF MUSCULAR AND SKELETAL PAIN, SPORTS AND PERSONAL INJURIES Liam Halton B.Sc (Hons) Ost. 49 Larch Tree Avenue, (Off Broad Lane), Tile Hill, COVENTRY, CV4 9FT

www.larchtreeost.co.uk TEL: 024 7647 0019

Berkswell Museum The museum is reopening this summer with a special exhibition about Jeremy Brett the film star. He was born in the Grange at Carol Green, the son of Colonel and Mrs Huggins and was made famous for his role as Sherlock Holmes. This year is the 20th anniversary of his death, please visit and find out about Jeremy’s childhood in Berkswell.

The museum will be open on the following dates: Spring Bank Holiday Monday May 25th 11am to 3pm Open Gardens Sunday June 28th 11am to 3pm August Bank Holiday Saturday 29th and Monday 31st 11am to 3pm September Heritage weekend times to be arranged Private parties can be booked by arrangement.

Phone Wendy 01676 522077 The museum is a unique collection of country artefacts divided into four rooms, it is the only museum in the borough of Solihull and if it does close down because of lack of visitors this collection will be lost. Come and visit the village, see the stocks and look for the carved mice in the Church or take a walk along the many footpaths around the village.

Come to The Reading Room for Afternoon Tea and a browse around our Vintage inspired Market..

Berkswell Reading Room, Meriden Road, Berkswell CV7 7BB

1pm—4pm on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month.(Admission Free) like us on facebook Email: berkswellvintage@hotmail.com

Berskwell Open Gardens From 11am until 5pm on Sunday 28 June thirteen Berkswell gardens will be open to the public in order to raise money for charity under The National Gardens Scheme.

In 2014 Berkswell village was awarded Gold in the RHS Britain in Bloom campaign plus a special award for the Best Large Village in the whole of the Heart of England.

We are very proud of the award and hope to repeat this great achievement in 2015.

Judging will take place over the open gardens weekend.

The selection of Berkswell gardens opening on 28 June provides great variety with examples of small and large, formal and informal, wild, and imaginatively planted herbaceous borders along with productive vegetable gardens. There will be something for everyone and plenty of ideas to take home. Plants will be for sale at some gardens as will teas, homemade cakes and ice cream. Teas will also be available in the Berkswell Reading Room and the beautiful 12th century Norman Church will also be open, as of course will be The Bear where meals will be available.

Yellow National Garden Scheme signs will be erected at strategic points on the road-side pointing to each of the gardens.

A programme will be available for visitors listing the location of all the gardens with a map. Copies of the programme will be given to visitors at the first garden they visit. In addition the programme will be available at the Reading Room in Berkswell.

More information on the individual gardens opening can be seen in the following NGS link (http://www.ngs.org.uk/gardens/find-a-garden/garden.aspx?search=type:advanced-pc:cv7+7bd-d:5-dr:6&id=32172).

Children will be very welcome so please come along with your families and friends and enjoy the gardens whilst raising money for worthy charitable causes. It is remarkable that since its foundation the National Gardens Scheme has donated over £42.5 million to nominated beneficiaries as a result of visitors to gardens opened under the NGS Scheme.

Meriden C of E Primary School Spring Update “Working towards ‘Outstanding!”

As many of you may be aware, our visit from Ofsted last October highlighted some key areas for development within school – most notably perceptions around ‘bullying’. Since then we have worked tirelessly as a school to address these issues. We have held workshops and open mornings to support parental perception as well as consult with the school community to update policy and procedure in school. Lessons have been taught and school slogans adopted to really clarify the definition of bullying and the many forms that it takes. Below are some of our achievements so far…

SUCCESS HEADLINES:Children either experiencing or witnessing bullying has dropped by up to 50% in most classes.

Recorded incidents of bullying have dropped each month since October 14.

Children now show a much clearer understanding of what bullying is and the difference between that and falling out with friends.

Last month we were visited by HMI who conducted a monitoring visit in order to evaluate the progress we have made since our Ofsted inspection. They found the school to be…‘taking effective action to tackle the areas requiring improvement identified at the recent (Ofsted) inspection’ (April 15) It was also noted that…

“The full inspection, rightly, judged that pupils achieve well and that the teaching is of good quality. There are enough good teachers and practitioners in the school to influence the work of all staff and there is combined willingness to improve pupils’ behaviour. Staff morale is high and relationships between pupils and staff are trusting, respectful and positive. Attendance rates remain well above the national average, reflecting how much pupils like coming to school and how supportive parents are in ensuring that pupils attend regularly.“(HMI 15) WE ARE EXTREMELY PROUD OF OUR ACHIEVEMENTS AND KEEN TO SHARE THE GOOD NEWS WITH OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY!

David Deakin Plastering Services Interior plastering and coving work.

Insurance work welcome.

Free Estimates, reliable, friendly, clean service.

Tel: 01676 521389 Mobile: 07767 237860

Police call on dog owners to help prevent ‘worrying’ reports PC Andy Timmins is asking for the public’s help, especially dog owners, to do everything they can to help protect local farmer’s livestock. The request comes after a pet dog seriously injured four sheep in Knowle.

While ‘sheep worrying’ may not be an issue that many police officers have to deal with, for Solihull’s Wildlife Officer it is the latest issue being tackled after concerns raised by local farmers.

"Worrying covers anything from over-excited dogs chasing livestock to full-on attacks, but also applies if a dog is off the lead and not under close control in a field containing sheep," said PC Timmins Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 dog owners face prosecution and having their animals destroyed if they chase, kill or maul animals.

Livestock worrying by dogs is estimated to cost the industry at least £1.2 million a year and farmers have the right to shoot dead any dog that they believe poses an immediate threat to their livestock.

"During the summer the borough’s dog owners will no doubt be making the most of our rural landscapes. At the same time any stress caused to ewes or lambs could have a major impact on the welfare of these animals. Therefore I’d ask dog owners to always ensure they are in control of their animals when around livestock," urged PC Timmins Farmers and landowners can get further advice and information by calling PC Andy Timmins on 101.

In the photograph are PC Timmins and Peter Mobley who is part of the Farm Watch scheme and whose sheep were attacked in the incident mentioned in the press release.

The Meriden Plumber NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

Franklin Construction Services Established 1979

Fully Qualified in Natural Gas & LPG Our services include: • Full Central Heating installations • Landlord Gas Safe Certificates & Servicing • Boiler Replacements • Cooker & Fire Installations • Power Flushing • Shower installations • External & Internal Taps No. 544788 • Blocked Drains • Underfloor Heating Systems • Bathroom installations from start to finish

For all aspects of building work • Domestic + Commercial + Industrial.

• New Build + Extensions + Renovations • Full property maintenanceall trades carried out • Sewage treatment plants installed and repaired

(inc electrics, plastering, tiling & carpentry work)

All Plumbing Work Undertaken

Workmanship may be inspected locally

07972 868 512

Tel:02476 462413

email:meridenplumber@hotmail.co.uk www.themeridenplumber.co.uk

Mob: 07801 579910

BALSALL COMMON VETS

Grove House Bed & Breakfast Bill and Sheila Hunt would like to welcome you to

Grove House

384a Kenilworth Road Balsall Common CV7 7ER Open by appointment Monday – Friday 11am-6pm Sat 9am-10am Local friendly practice, established over 40 years Highly qualified and experienced staff Car parking at rear of surgery Selling food, toys and other pet care items 24 hour emergency care & advice

A spacious and friendly quality B&B offering luxury rooms and delicious food

Located off a quiet lane in Meriden, we are newly opened and AA graded.

• Airport Transfers • Secure parking • Business people catered for • Warm friendly environment

Tel: 01676 530792 www.broadlanevets.co.uk

8, Whichcote Avenue, Meriden Coventry CV7 7LR

Our surgery at 255 Broad Lane CV5 7AQ is open until 7.30pm weeknights, Saturday 8.30am-5pm & Sundays 11am-3pm

Email: enquiries@grovehousebandb.co.uk

01676 523295 www.grovehousebandb.co.uk

First – class care for your car is closer than you think!…

For MOT, service, tyres & exhausts call:

ACE GARAGE RADFORD 024 7659 7879 S KENSINGTON GARAGE EARLSDON 024 7667 0054 Courtesy car, collection & delivery options call Brendan McManus direct on: 07958 518924

We service, repair and care for your vehicle

BERKSWELL & DISTRICT HISTORY GROUP The aim of the History Group is to give its members and the general public the opportunity to acquire information & understanding on items of historical interest, through meetings visits & research projects.

Meetings will be held at Berkswell Reading Room at 7.45pm for 8.00 pm except for the June Visit.

Wed 17th June 2.00pm St Marys Guildhall, Coventry.

Guided Tour of “Probably the Finest Surviving Medieval Guildhall in the Country.” “One of Coventry’s Best Kept Secrets.” Numbers Limited.

Please ‘phone 01676 535782 to book a place.

Wed 8th July “Henry VIII & the Field of Cloth of Gold” Dr Gillian White.

In June 1520 Henry VIII met with King Francis I of France at the Camp du Drap D’Or, near Calais which was then part of England.

Wed 12th August “State Occasions” presented by Colonel Lesinski, Master of Lord Leycester Hospital.

These are his recollections and reflections of his personal involvement in State Ceremonial Occasions over many years. An event not to be missed.

Meeting Fees: Members £2, Non-Members £3.

Refreshments included. Annual Membership £5.

For more information, including membership details, see our website:

www.berkswell-history.org or telephone 01676 535782.

Quick drying time Call us for a free, friendly quote, 7 days a week Professional small family business covering Meriden, Fillongley, Berkswell & surrounding villages

Your Hedgehogs Need You! Warwickshire Wildlife Trust have chosen the borough of Solihull to be the UK’s very first area dedicated to hedgehog conservation. The nation’s hedgehogs have suffered a dramatic decline in numbers and the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust has launched the Solihull Hedgehog Improvement Area (HIA) to tackle the issue head on.

The HIA project’s initial aim is to investigate exactly where Solihull’s hedgehogs are located so that future habitat improvements can be made; making the environment more wildlife friendly, better connected and ultimately more desirable for hedgehogs.

The Wildlife Trust’s Hedgehog Officer, Simon Thompson, is inviting all residents, schools and community groups to help track down Solihull’s hedgehogs. If you see a hedgehog you can head straight to the project website www.helpforhedgehogs.co.uk and log your hedgehog sighting. The hedgehog team are also looking for keen residents to help perform footprint surveys in their own gardens. The footprints are recorded using specially designed survey tunnels containing ink, hedgehog food and blank paper. When hedgehogs and other small mammals are tempted in by the smell of the food they get inky paws and leave a trail of footprints on the paper. The footprints are then analysed by the team and any confirmed hedgehog footprints are mapped. All survey equipment is free to borrow from Warwickshire Wildlife Trust at The Parkridge Centre in Brueton Park, Solihull.

To find out more about becoming a Hedgehog Surveyor, how you can help hedgehogs in your own garden or to get more information about the Solihull Hedgehog Improvement Area then please contact Simon Thompson, simon.thompson@wkwt.org.uk Tel: 0121 704 0768

Copyright Steven Cheshire 2015

North Warwickshire Golf Club Just starting or looking to improve?

Quality golf lessons for all ages

01676 522295 Andrew Bownes PGA Golf Professional 1 to 1 lessons from £20 ½ hour Course of lessons available Juniors class 2.00 3.00 Tri.golf and golf junior passport centre No equipment necessary/ non-members welcome Gift vouchers and lesson vouchers available from the club shop

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust The Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park, Solihull WWT 5 acre Nature Reserve /Dragonfly Tearoom, Gift shop and second hand children’s/adults books

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENTS 21st July to the 28th August 2015 We have got an amazing summer planned, hope you will be able to join us. There will be events about badgers, butterflies, newts, magical woodlands and everything in between including our ever popular den building and pond dipping sessions.

Full details available on our website In addition we have a couple of special events:Sunday 5th July – Family Fun Day 10-4 FREE EVENT Friday 28th August - Family Bat Night (5+) 7:15-8:45 £5 per person (non- member) or £4 (member) or £15 for 2 adults & 2 children

Support our Help for Hedgehogs Campaign Donate by text – WKWT04 and your donation amount e.g. WKWT04 £10 to 70070

To book any of these events please call

0121 704 0768.

Workshops: £3:50 members and £4.50 for non WWT members Crafty Drop-ins: £2.00 60 minute Marvels: £3:00 members and £4.00 for non WWT members Similar events take place at Brandon Marsh Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry Telephone: 02476 302 912 You will always be assured of a big welcome

Highly Successful Business Woman Working with an expanding international company with UK turnover of £75million seeks working partners, (flexible part time/full time hours) who must be ambitious and self motivated.

If you have leadership skills, are a team player, like helping others, are keen to succeed, have excellent communication skills and are sociable, I would like to hear from you.

Incentives include annual bonus, car and free international travel.

Call Gill Pritchard 01676 534020 / 07817 154596 Ongoing training and support for the right people

grace your living space bespoke curtains * blinds* frippery *furniture Expertly tailored hand-crafted curtains, blinds, festoons, valances, pelmets, tie-backs, cushions and throws Curtains and blinds are custom made in our workroom and hung and dressed as part of the service.

Free home measuring and consultancy service A range of fine accoutrements and adornments together with exquisite pieces of antique and vintage furniture 68 Balsall Street Balsall Common CV7 7AP 01676 541 961 07817 961 222 www.graceinteriors.co.uk

grace Interiors

Heart of England Social Club Come along and visit us!

Families welcome The club offers a warm welcome, with excellent facilities for all, including a large concert room, bar, games room, snooker room, darts and a beer garden with play area

Non Members Welcome Happy hour 5.30 – 6.30pm Monday to Friday £2 a pint

Heart of England Social Club, Berkswell Road, Meriden 01676 522430

ARE YOU IN NEED OF SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE IN FINDING THE RIGHT CARE SOLUTION FOR YOU OR A LOVED ONE?

Well look no further.

Senior Care Support Services are here to help, guide and support you with what can be an extremely difficult, stressful and emotional time.

As a local senior care specialist, with many years experience working with the elderly and frail, support, advice and guidance is offered in finding the right care home, albeit residential, nursing or dementia care, or domiciliary care in the home for you or a loved one.

Why not speak, in confidence, with a ‘real’ person with years of experience of ‘the care system’ to help you through this minefield.

Telephone Geraldine Davies on 01564 743067 or email: info@seniorcaresupport.co.uk

Contact: 07549 603 601 01676 521 243

The Job Squad

Director:

www.

TheJobSquad. co.uk

The Job Squad is not just for plumbing, carpentry, electrical repairs and general maintenance! We are available whenever you need a “spare pair of hands”.

Small odd jobs such as assembling flat-pack furniture, hanging pictures and televisions, changing light bulbs in awkward places, finishing that job you started! Our local handymen are always on hand to help. At a time that suits you, even evenings and Saturdays.

All work guaranteed Fully insured State pensioners discount Minimum one hour

Free estimates Charged in half hour units No call out charge Established 1996

John Sleath, 01676 532833 07876 415 350 JOHN@THEJOBSQUAD.CO.UK.

Mr. Neil Massey Address: Leys Lane, Meriden

Services we offer: Garden Design Maintenance Landscaping Paving and patios Fencing Decking Water Features Natural Stone specialists ...And many more!

Call for your free quotation

www.greenroomlandsacpes.org.uk sales@greenroomlandscapes.org.uk

Meriden United Charities Charities in Meriden have existed for many years, the earliest was before 1551 and always the same purpose, to nday 11th D assist people in need.

Initially the Charities helped with items such as bread, fuel and clothing being distributed to the poor inhabitants and widows of Meriden.

At this time girls did not attend school and educational charities assisted with teaching poor girls of the parish to read.

Some conditions are for the Church to receive monies including preaching sermons on various dates and to repair and beautify certain tombs.

The 9 individual charities are now grouped and registered as United Charities with the Charity Commission but is generally known as Meriden United Charities.

Interest from investments is the main source of income.

The 9 Trustees meet 3 times a year to consider any new applications for funding. (Names of applicants or recipients are not freely disclosed).

If you would like to make an application either for yourself or someone you know, please consider the purposes of the Charities are to assist residents within the parish of Meriden, who are in need.

Bennetts Road North Corley Coventry CV7 8BG

01676 540178 Opening hours Mon-Sat 9.00- 5.00pm Sun 10.00 – 4.00pm

Readymade hanging baskets available Many of our bedding, herbaceous and perennial plants are home grown

WE ARE BIGGER THAN YOU THINK

Applications can be made to: The Clerk to the Trustees, Meriden United Charities, c/o Meriden Library, The Green.

THE COUNTRYSIDE FORGE

Email: hayleystanley1@hotmail.co.uk

Tel: 01675 443752 07828939513 • •

• • •

Hand forged sporting game priests £40 Interior and exterior wrought iron work undertaken.

Hanging basket brackets £45 Sporting weathervanes made to order Commissions undertaken.

www.tibeagundogs.co.uk

Tel: 07904 239365

Fredanita Flower & Gift Boutique

Coming soon to the Village Green

We specialise in Wedding flowers, please call in to discuss your requirements

The Green, Meriden, Coventry CV7 7LN Tel: 01676 523 050

Mob:07803 941931 Email :sarahcolver@hotmail.co.uk

By Julie Hyde

Its holiday season again! Tenby is a place I used to go on holiday as a child and it hasn’t changed much. I wanted to paint this in the happy, seaside colours that I remembered. I wanted to get an impression of the place and not be too realistic so…..using watercolours and watercolour paper this is how it was done:1. Lightly draw all the buildings and boats etc in pencil. It doesn’t matter if they are a bit wobbly or not straight.

2. Go over all the outlines of the buildings and boats with a permanent ink pen or a matchstick dipped in Indian ink (or any permanent ink), start to line the edges and fill in the very dark areas.

By using a matchstick you can vary the line thickness.

3. Add the colours in the right places! For big areas wet the patch first with clean water and a mop brush. For small areas, load your brush, add a puddle of paint and drag the puddle over the area.

I used varying strengths of:• Blue • Bright Yellow • Pale Yellow • Pale Crimson Red (pink) • Orangey Red • Blue + Brown (grey) Yellow + Brown (sandy colour) 4. When the first washes are dry, add the shadows in varying shades of:• Blue + Brown (making a grey) And the chimney pots in:• Reddish Brown 5. Strengthen some of the colours in the foreground by applying another layer of colour over the top of the first one.

For details of Art Classes at Centre of England Arts see website www.COEA.co.uk pick up leaflets in library or contact Julie on 01676 523357

Congratulations to Claire and Chas Rose On the birth of their Grandaughter Sophie Lily Rose On 31st March 2015 Editor’s Note We were very sorry not to reply to the email from Jaswant Singh on 13th April. Unfortunately the email address you gave us was incorrect, if you would like to contact us again with a telephone number we will do our best to help with your enquiry Created by Julie Hyde

Email:jph300@hotmail.com

Copyright © 2015

Left: Meriden Brownies display their art work Right and below: Fun activities at Messy Church at the Methodist Hall Below: Two photographs from the Orme School of Dancing recent Showtime

The Big Picture Show: Awaiting the start of the film Serving the refreshments

Above: Three pictures from the Coventry Way Challenge, courtesy of Roy Hands Meriden Library new computer suite Terry, Wayne and little Henry with the trophies at Mike and Terry’s fundraising Foot Golf day.

We are always pleased to receive your pictures of village events, please email them to the addresses on back page, thanks.

1st Meriden Scout Group – News from the Green Hut Beaver Scouts The Beaver Scouts have had yet another fun packed term where they have achieved their Disability Awareness and Communication badges at our Beaver Youth Involvement Day hosted by the District at Mancetter HQ. We also continued our work to complete our Safety and Global badges. The Beavers had to learn greetings in different languages and understand the importance of animal conservation and environmental issues affecting our world. They were presented with their badges at the beginning of term. Well done.

This term we will be combining three badges including the "My Skills" Challenge award, Experimental and Creative badges. We have made dragon craft to celebrate St George's Day, learned how to keep our bodies healthy and participated in exciting science experiments.

We are very proud of our Beavers wearing their Scouts uniform during school on St George's Day. They all looked very smart and represented the Scout Group with pride.

Our County event 'Get In' at Ragley Hall will be a fun packed exciting day for our Beavers and we are all very much looking forward to it.

Cub Scouts The Cubs have worked very hard over the past couple of months in order to achieve their Global Challenge badges, which has incorporated tasks such as learning about different cultures and communities from other parts of the world - namely China and Japan in this instance. They learnt about the meaning behind Chinese New Year and got to taste different foods from China, as well as writing their names in Chinese and learning the Chinese alphabet. They also learnt about Japanese culture, as this is where this year’s World Scouting Jamboree is being held, and learnt a really cool way to count to ten in Japanese. Also as part of the challenge they created plant pots and feeders from recycled plastic pop bottles.

They also earned their Astronomy Badge following completion of tasks around the solar system and star gazing. The next two months will see them focus on some of the new badges that have been created by the Scout Association following a refreshed programme which now allows us to participate in some new exciting challenges. The new challenge badge will see the Cubs works towards their Teamwork Challenge, which means that they will have to take part in creating and planning their own teamwork challenges, complete problem solving activities, hold Cub Scout Forums on subjects of their choice and learn how to work together as a team in order to achieve their goals. They will also be completing their new Disability Awareness Badge as part of this.

Cubs continues to expand and we are now up to 19 members with space for more Cubs still, so if you are interested please do not hesitate to contact us and come along.

Scouts It’s been action packed again since the start of the year. The term has seen us mapping, fire lighting, climbing, making land yachts, pitching tents and making and cooking our own burgers. We’ve also had our first two camps of the year.

Our first camp saw the Patrol Leaders and Assistant Patrol Leaders camp down at the headquarters for a leadership and skills weekend. Task one was to sort out their own menus, in teams, before heading to the shops to buy for themselves what they thought they might need. (Apologies if they caused chaos, but I think they learnt a lot from the exercise). Then it was into how to present to younger Scouts how to pitch different varieties of tents before explaining leadership styles and giving them the opportunity to try them out. After some great evening meals we set about a giant game of Pictionary on a white board so they could focus on their communication skills. Sunday, after getting fires lit and cooking breakfast, saw them demonstrate their leadership skills further in demonstrating various scouting activities.

After discussing camping and hiking equipment, one evening we set off on our second camp of the year up to North Wales. After slightly changing our walking location, apparently Jude Law was filming a New King Arthur film, we set off on the long minibus ride up to Bethesda. Saturday proved to be a gorgeous sunny day for a great 10 mile walk over the hills. The Scouts were excellent and thoroughly enjoyed themselves, though were quite tired by the end. Sunday saw us having a more relaxing walking up to Aber falls before playing in the stream and returning home. Another great weekend! We have two more camps before the summer, with an exciting programme to match.

For more detail of what we’ve been doing and what we have planned please visit our blog site at http://1stmeridenscouts.blogspot.co.uk and if you think Scouting’s for you get in touch.

If Bear Dares why don’t you?

Please contact the Leaders below if you would like to join – Go on, come and meet some new friends, learn something new and have FUN!!

Beavers: Girls and boys aged 6-8 years meet on a Monday at 6.30pm. Contact Emma (evenings only 07811 905456) Cubs: Girls and Boys aged 8-10½ meet on a Thursday at 6.30pm. Contact Malcolm (07967 325520) Scouts: Girls and Boys aged 10½-14 meet on a Tuesday at 7pm. Mark (07801 773352) or 1stMeridenScouts@gmail.com We also need help from any adults out there that would be willing to spare some time with any of the sections – even if it is just for the odd hour or two each month.

Meriden Volunteers for

Our Country Night was a great success. Once again Knoxville Highway entertained us superbly and the hot dogs were good, too.

The Ladies Clothing Sale at the Heart of England Club was worthwhile.

Good quality clothing from Marks and Spencer, Wallis, Joules and Kalico proved popular and we will have another sale in October.

Our main event in the summer is an Auction night on Thursday July 9th at 7.30pm at the Heart of England Club. Charles Hanson( see picture) will once

again be our valuer. He has been on the TV very often over the last year.

Repeatedly suffering from cancer himself, he supports this charity and gives his services at a slightly reduced rate.

He will be selecting some of your items to value. Last time he visited we all enjoyed his lively presentation of his life in the antique business.

Tickets are £6 to include one item to be valued. Charles will decide which items he will value and talk about. All persons who bring an item for a possible valuation do so at their own risk of loss, damage or breakage.

01676 522160 * 01676 522855 * 01676 522702 01676 522555

Award Winning Baby Development Classes Designed for babies from birth to 13 months

Contact - Nina 07971 945 242 solihull@babysensory.co.uk

Heart of England Club

The dancers at The Orme School of Dancing’s Meriden Branch danced beautifully at ‘Showtime 2015’. The annual show included show stoppers such as ‘Shake It Off’, ‘Happy’ and our youngest dancers looked gorgeous in their ‘Driver Dan’s Story Train’ and ‘Skip to my Lou’ dances. The senior dancers sparkled in their show pieces which included pieces from ‘Cabaret’.

Please see advert below If you would like to get your child involved in ballet, tap and modern jazz sessions at our Meriden Branch on Mondays at the Meriden Methodist Church We have different classes suitable for children from 2 years of age up to senior school age as well as our new adult tap class where there isn’t an age limit!

The Orme School of

Please Telephone for tickets and information

Babies have an extraordinary capacity to absorb information in their first year and at Baby Sensory we don’t waste a single moment!

With 40 themed lesson plans, you and your baby will discover a magical underwater world, explore a tropical jungle, journey into Space and have fun at our Baby Olympics!

Classes held in:- Shirley, Solihull and Meriden

Thursday 9th July 7.30pm

Showtime at the Orme School of Dancing Meriden Branch (see centre page for pictures)

Thank you for your support. Mary Warr

Auction Night

Dancing Meriden Branch Methodist Church Hall Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Freestyle and Contemporary

Tel: 02476 467271

New Beginners Adult Tap Class!

No experience necessary. We are a friendly, social group and are building up the new sessions on a Monday evening at the Methodist Church in Meriden – get in touch to find out more.

Also – Now is the perfect time to get your child involved in our Ballet, Tap and Modern Jazz sessions. www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk

Meriden library 01676 522717 Monday Thursday Saturday

10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm 10am - 1pm

Solihull Council would like to inform residents that Meriden Library re-opened on Thursday 9 April after completion of building works.

The library has undergone works including painting the exterior and interior and changes have been made to the layout of the stock and public computers. Through funding secured from Meriden Parish Council there has been an upgrade to the ICT facilities for customers using the library.

There is now a suite of six computers, a plasma screen that can be used as an aid for tutors delivering group ICT courses, and a new touchscreen computer with an adjustable height desk. The library is also developing new ICT-based courses that will be promoted at the official launch of the enhanced service at Meriden Library. The date for the launch will be confirmed soon. So if you haven’t had the opportunity to visit your local library recently come along and find out what we have to offer. (See picture centre pages)

What’s on this summer at Meriden Library.

Story time for the under-fives – come along for stories and rhymes. Every Monday during term time, 2.45pm – 3.15pm. Everybody welcome.

Reading Café – Come and meet other readers for a chat about books over a coffee! Mondays: 15 June and 20 July.

August date to be confirmed.

Summer Reading Challenge – This Summer Reading Challenge starts on Saturday 11 July. The theme of this year’s challenge is Record Breakers, and even includes a Guinness World Record attempt! Look out for more information in the library as the launch date draws near.

Make a difference this summer and help children take part in the Summer Reading Challenge 2015. This is a great volunteering opportunity which could improve your communication skills, help you meet new people, gain experience for your CV and make a difference to a child’s future. For more information speak to a member of staff.

For further information please contact Amanda Jones, Neighbourhood Library Manager, Tel: 01676 532590, Email: amjones@solihull.gov.uk

Meriden Playgroup Come and join us for a little playtime crafts, indoor and outdoor play, a healthy snack, a cup of tea and a warm welcome

Every Tuesday (term time only) 9.30 – 11.30am Meriden Methodist Church Hall, Main Road £1.50 for one child + 50p each additional children (first session free)

Please call Vanessa Walker 07779 235 248 for more details

Meriden Library Readers Circle It's a real pleasure to have the Library open again and our lovely librarians doing a wonderful job helping us find books for book club nights. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 7.30 to 9.00 p.m. and the staff will give you details of the venue. With the summer schedules on T.V. we have lost "The Three Musketeers" and "Poldark" but all is not lost when we can take a book into the garden or on holiday and enjoy it in the sunshine.

10th June Any French author from the time of Dumas and his musketeers to the present day.

8th July A story by Jane Austen. I visit Winchester and Jane Austen territory often so usually pop into the magnificent cathedral to have a look at her plaque and tell her of the money she is still earning from her work. It gave her great satisfaction to be able to be financially independent. Beware though, the cathedral now charges an £11 entrance fee.

12th August The book you have been saving for your holiday! Whatever it is we will enjoy getting your view on it so we can try it ourselves.

Margaret Houldsworth 01676 523603 Balsall Writers During our four years we have expanded and now have two groups devoted to writing prose and a third group writing and reading poetry. Our remit is, and has always been, to encourage those who wish to write for pleasure or publication. We are not a teaching group for creative writing and our members are serious and in some instances ambitious to see their work published.

This past year saw the publication as a paperback and an ebook of our anthology – Snapshots - which won a commendation and certificate in the 2014 National Association of Writing Groups competition.

We now have five published authors and more in the pipeline. In the autumn we are considering a new venture if there is sufficient interest - an afternoon Creative Writing group, this will have limited membership. If you are interested and would like more details please contact: Anne Santos – info@balsallwriters.org.uk Or view our website www.balsallwriters.org.uk

Meriden, the centre of England continues to commemorate the centenary of the First World War

Meriden the Centre of England, marks the centenary of the First World War with a commemorative cricket match

Meriden Family Picnic in the park remembers with a 1915 theme

*Penalty Shoot Out * Cricket * Tennis * *Sack Race* Egg and Spoon Race * Rounders* *Three Legged Race *Prizes* *Bring your own Picnic* Village Stocks* *Raffle * WW1 Display* Coleshill Town Band* *Women’s Institute Centenary Display* * Commentary by Jon Barber & Ken Meek*

MERIDEN TREE OF THOUGHT Since last I wrote, it has been a very moving time for me.

I have received wonderful donations for The Tree as a result of the sad passing of three gentlemen. My, one time neighbour, David Twittey, died at his home in France.

I was aware of his amazing fight against cancer, over a long period of time as we were in email contact. Can you imagine how touched I was, when his wife Linda and his daughter, Jo came to see me and gave me a terrific cheque for ‘The Tree.’

They told me that it was in accordance with his wishes and that David had hoped to give me the donation himself but, sadly, that was not possible. Thank you Linda, Jo and David. When Eric King left us, his daughter Nina spoke to me saying that it was her wish that donations, in lieu of flowers, should be made to The Meriden Tree of Thought as Eric always appreciated The Tree. This was done. Thank you Nina, Also, Alan Fletcher of The Firs, Maxstoke Lane, passed away and the decision was made, by his friends and family, to again make payments to The Tree in lieu of flowers. Thank you Michael.

I knew, respected and liked these men and I can’t begin to tell you just how much it means to me that these donations were made through something I created to benefit cancer care. BELIEVE ME!!!

Alan Lole

Meriden Sports Park Sunday 2nd August from 1.00pm Homemade cakes, tea and coffee on sale All proceeds towards ABF the soldiers Charity

FUNDAY SUNDAY I am, at this time 30th April, preparing for FUNDAY SUNDAY ON THE VILLAGE GREEN on THE 7th JUNE. You will recall that I held the previous one in 2013. I was told by everyone who came along then just how much they enjoyed themselves.

This year there are going to be many more stalls which should provide things of interest and enjoyment for ALL age groups. DO PLEASE JOIN US and have some TRADITIONAL FUN at the historical event. This is Your Village Green being used for what was, originally, the purpose. Bringing the Community together. All of the people running the stalls will be doing their level best to ensure that you have a great time. All profits will, as before, be shared equally between The Marie Curie Hospice and Solihull and Macmillan Cancer Support. DON’T MISS IT AND MISS OUT. IT WILL START AT 11.00am and run until, at least 3.00 pm.

There will be plenty of food available, so you won’t have to worry about lunch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SEE YOU THERE!

Thank you Alan

Jobs to do in the Vegetable Patch in June • • • • • • • • • • •

Start picking the crops Sow brassicas for winter Weed regularly Wage war on pests Provide supports for beans and peas Sow successional crops Water regularly Plant all greenhouse crops Start feeding tomatoes and other container grown vegetables Plant out all frost sensitive crops Stop harvesting asparagus by the longest day

Fillongley Show August 9th Best allotment kept by a bone-fide amateur gardener on one site and situated within 10 miles of Fillongley Church.

Judging to take place on19/20/ 21 June To enter please contact Roger on 01676 523705 Entry fee £3.00 or email rj.bache@btinternet.com Best kept and cultivated garden kept by a bone-fide amateur gardener on one site and situated within 10 miles of Fillongley Church Judging to take place on 17th June and will be judged by the Rugby branch of the NFU Entry fee £3 Contact 07928 231 460 to enter 1st Prize £10,2nd £7 and 3rd £3

Blueberry, Lemon and yogurt tea loaf

250g plain flour 2 tsp baking powder 115 g soft butter 225 g caster sugar Finely grated zest and juice of 1 large lemon 2 large eggs 100 g natural yogurt 25 g ground almonds 200 g blueberries 100 g sugar plus extra for sprinkling

Preheat oven to180c/gas mark 4.

Grease and line a 900g loaf tin.

Sift together the flour baking powder and a pinch of salt.

Cream together the butter and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl until pale and fluffy, then beat in the lemon zest.

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding a tablespoon of flour with the second egg.

Alternately fold in large spoonfuls of the remaining flour and yoghurt then fold in the ground almonds.

Spoon a third of the cake mixture into the bottom of the loaf tin and scatter over a third of the blueberries. Repeat twice more ending with a layer of blueberries.

Bake for 45-50 minutes and if necessary cover with loosely with tinfoil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until a skewer comes away clean.

Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 5 minutes.

Mix the lemon juice and sugar and spoon it carefully over the cake and leave it to soak for 5 minutes.

Take the cake out of the tin and pop it on a wire rack to cool.

Sprinkle the top with sugar.

This is just as delicious made with fresh raspberries or blackberries.

Brailes Farm 522318 Fresh cut turf Rockery stone and Other garden needs Village delivery

M.J. Mowing Grass Cutting Hedge Cutting Pruning Strimming Weed Control –Pesticide Licensed Leaves Cleared No Job Too Small Competitive Prices Free Quotes Call Martin 01675 465 204 07922 241 181

Balsall & District Horticultural Society's Annual Show

Saturday 18th July Exhibits of Flowers, Vegetables and Crafts St Peter's Church Hall, Holly Lane

Doors open at 2pm.

Admission by donation Free parking, Refreshments, Plant Sales, Raffle

Whitacres and Shustoke Horticultural Society 67th Annual Show Saturday July 25th Blyth Hall Shustoke As well as all the features of a traditional local country show, this year there will be a ‘Robin Hood’ theme with jousting knights, a medieval encampment and ‘have a go’ archery.

Great for children and pets to play, No mowing, edging or watering.

Stunning looking lawn 365 days a year

Just relax and enjoy Please phone for more details

0845 388 0800

Visit our website @ www.coventryartificialturf.co.uk

Local planning and housing Solihull’s Local Plan was adopted in December 2013 and remains the policy document for all new development in the Borough - apart from a couple of very important issues – the target housing numbers in the period to 2028, and the return of two sites at Tidbury Green to the Green Belt, which had been wanted by the Council.

Solihull Council originally set housing numbers at 11,000, approximately 500 per annum, which was the maximum it believed should be accepted without adversely affecting the character of the Borough. Developers with land interests had different ideas and took out a legal challenge, a case which reached the Court of Appeal. The decision of the latter was that the inspector had erred in law in the approach he took as to housing numbers; secondly, that the circumstances of the two Tidbury Green sites did not meet the exceptional criteria needed to justify their return to the Green Belt.

On the question of housing numbers, the Appeal Court remitted this to the Council and this will be considered as part of the assessment of development needs being undertaken on a regional basis. In fact, the Local Plan always envisaged this would have to be done and that a review would be needed, also to deal with the major effect on the area being brought about by HS2 and the Interchange site The need for new housing is driven by the growth in household numbers and this is a feature not just of Solihull, but of the wider West Midlands, and indeed much of the country, brought about by issues such as demographic factors, an ageing population, the rise of single person households and so on. What makes it a particular issue in Solihull is the enormous demand to live here, fuelled by the excellent education facilities, lower rates of Council Tax, green spaces, proximity of the countryside, ten Green Flag parks, road network, and so on. However, demand is a different matter from need.

Developers have been arguing housing numbers of 20,000 or more, which the Council continues to resist vigorously and indeed has set local needs, such as for the elderly and affordable housing, as its priorities.

National Planning Guidelines require the Council to maintain a 5 year land supply. Until the issue of housing numbers is finally settled, this remains a difficult issue and the Council has had no choice but to adopt a policy of bringing forward sites from subsequent phases of its plan. This is affecting many parts of the Borough. Sites within the adopted Green Belt benefit from more protection because of their status.

The Council has placed the protection of the Green Belt and environmental concerns as a key priority and this remains at the heart of its policy of Managed Growth in the Borough.

Councillor Ian Courts, May 2015 Deputy Leader & Cabinet Member, Economic Development & Land Solihull MBC

BEST WESTERN PLUS Manor Hotel.

I wanted to write a welcoming hello at the beginning of this edition as I will rarely have as good an opportunity as this, to introduce myself, Lucy Talbot, as the new General Manager.

I am delighted to be able to build on the legacy of my predecessor and to continue to build the Manor’s reputation as one of the quality focussed business in Meriden.

We want to be a great neighbour within the community, and would value the opportunity to work more closely with so many of you; we want to extend the range of local products and services we buy and use; local honey, farm fresh eggs just as simple examples, but we are also really keen to play an active part in village life; whether that’s helping the village hall with a space for Pilates when the heating goes down, or helping out at the village fete.

Houstons, our American Bar & Grill, open daily from 10am, serving everything from coffee and cake to great burgers and daily specials

The Regency, perhaps reserved for a slightly more special occasion, but do let us know if you need a table plan; cake to celebrate a birthday or simply what we do best, friendly service and great food.

We will be launching our new Meriden VIP club very soon; this will offer you preferential rates within the Regency Restaurant, Houstons Bar, and even for friends and family to stay with us.

You will simply need to email us to let us know you would like to be included, giving us your name and postcode to reservations@manorhotelmeriden.co.uk We will pop an email back to you with a few simple questions about how you would like to be alerted to new promotions and news about the Manor, and then your VIP card will arrive.

Main Road, Meriden, CV7 7NH. 01676 522735

Barkers’ Butts RFC Pickford Grange Lane Coventry CV5 9AR •

• •

11 Mini & Junior age groups from 6-16 years Non-Contact Rugby for girls 11-18 years Under 18 Colts Side

Our facilities are 1st class and all our coaches are RFU Qualified and CRB checked

Contact Scott English 07963 134923 •

We also have 4 adult sides 1st XV to Vets

•

There will be a special welcome to players returning to the game in time for the 2015 Rugby World Cup

Contact Glen Southwell 07598 980546

Should politics be taught in schools?

With the General Election now behind us, and some very exciting results a key feature, it should be noted that there are still many people who do not vote, who do not exercise their right to participate in our democracy. With the strong media presence constantly informing us of what is happening in the political world, increasingly so on social media, it is difficult to know how British politics escape the notice of some British people. It could be the lack of education, though, that leaves a considerable proportion of people uninformed, or even misinformed, about what happens in our country’s politics, ultimately leading to apathy when it comes to the polling stations.

Teaching politics in school, thus delivering young people with a basic education in politics, must surely be the cornerstone of an increasingly politically knowledgeable population. It is in these classes that young people could gain fundamental knowledge about even the most basic issues involving party politics, how a law gets passed or the make-up of the government.

Such education has never been more important, with the advance of minority parties making the decision faced by the voter almost overwhelming.

Teaching politics in schools would also make young people’s voices be heard more loudly, with the hope that voting turnout for the ages 18-24 would increase and that governments would be forced to give even greater precedent to issues faced by the youth of today.

It would also serve to reduce the numbers of young voters who follow their parents’ voting habits when, in an overload of political pamphlets, debates and controversies, the choice is too difficult to make independently.

However, critics argue that this would limit even further the curriculum time available to the core school subjects.

Politics is something that young people could and should engage with away from the classroom, and the best way to do that is arguably with one’s own research.

Moreover, as in many walks of life, the leanings of individual teachers could have just as great an impact on the way their students vote as parents, hardly combatting copycat voting in young people.

Overall, though, it is hard to ignore the problem of youth apathy in politics, especially compared to fifty years ago when party membership was unexceptional and it was cool to be in the know. We are lucky to have the relatively stable political climate that we do, and even more fortunate that our democracy is such that the people really do “govern the country”. As education gives students such grounding in a variety of subjects, whether they are open to it or not, it is difficult to object to the need for regular politics lessons, except on the grounds of practicalities, for the simple reason that it would clarify the political blind spot that many young people have today.

Claire Hargreaves year 13 student at Heart of England Sixth Form

Greetings from Meriden Rotary Club! My Rotary year is coming to an end in June and what a great year it has turned out to be. I thoroughly enjoyed my Rotary year and had great satisfaction serving this great Club and the Community.

This year we planned many community events including Santa Fun Run, Santa Sleigh, Senior Citizen’s Party to name a few and as always, Meriden community overwhelmingly supported us in our events with greater numbers and more fund raising.

We still have one “mega” event to go before my year comes to an end and that is ‘Megaride’’ which this year will take place in Meriden on Sunday 28th June and the event as usual is going to be a “roaring” success. I call upon all the bikers amongst you to take part and support us. You will find the information about the ‘Megaride’ on the back page of this magazine.

Finally, I wish to take this opportunity to say Thank You to each and every one who has made my year memorable. I am sure you will extend the same support to my fellow Rotarian Tony Hill who will be taking over as the next President of the Club in July 2015.

Dev Kulkarni, President, Meriden Rotary Club

Temple Balsall A Sure Start Children’s Centre

The Children’s Centre at the rear of Meriden C of E Primary School next to Beechwood Nursery Play and Stay Mondays 12 noon to 2.00 pm (in term time) For families with children age 0 – 5 Adult Craft Exchange Fridays at 9.00 am – 12.00 noon At Meriden Children’s Centre Please call Vanessa to book 07779235248 Alternate Fridays 1.30 pm-2.30 pm Caterpillar Club - messy session in the school nursery contact school for further details

For more details of the Children’s Centre activities call 0121 248 7654 Anything you need relating to children and families, we can help

BUBBLES HAND CAR WASH Quality Hand Car Cleaning Find us off the A45 in Shepherd’s Lane Meriden

Phone 07538 238 005 Open 9.00am -7.00pm 7 days a week

Prices from £6 wash only £12 -£15 for inside and out including full vacuum and interior windows

20% off all prices when you bring the Meriden Mag with you!

Meriden Spartans Cricket Club After well attended winter nets training sessions and a successful club pre-season tour to Somerset and Devon which saw James and Ani share an impressive 210 run partnership, the cricket season returns.

The first match played at the Pavillion was an interclub friendly between the Second and Sunday X1. From this season the Spartans will have 4 teams playing at Meriden Sports Pavillion, the first and second X1 on Saturdays, the Sunday X1 and the Tuesday evening T20 team.

All fixtures are posted on the pavilion noticeboard.

The Spartans are looking for social and aspiring cricketers to join the Saturday third X1.

Please contact David Moynihan for further details: 07972 047170

Meriden Spartans under 12 team & Second X1 vs Sunday X1

On Sunday 2nd August a select Spartans X1 will be playing the Royal Corps of Signals in a WW1 commemorative match. Monies raised will be donated to the Army Benevolent Fund. Please do come along to show your support and enjoy what will be a lovely afternoon.

Free cricket coaching for children aged 5-12 years of age at the Meriden Sports Park 6pm on a Friday evening.

For any information or queries about the Spartans please visit our website: www.mscc.info

Marriott Forest of Arden Leisure Club 01676 526107

Come along to a warm welcome with Candy at Meriden Village Hall

Spring into summer at the Marriott

Zumba Thursday evenings 6.00pm £4 per session

Pilates Thursday evenings 7.00pm £4 per session

Pilates focuses on building your body's core strength and improving your posture through a series of low repetition low impact stretching and conditioning exercises.

It not only provides a complete body workout (you will be working muscles you didn't even know you had!), but also helps you develop an awareness of how your body works, helping your mind and body to work in harmony.

Any queries please contact: Tel. 07828709650

During July and August enjoy a 6 week membership including: 18m Leisure Pool Spa Bath Sauna Steam Room Splash Pool Cardio Gym Studio with over 30 classes per week Flood lit Tennis Courts & Table Tennis facilities Free Gym Weights Resistance Suite From just £49* open 6am – 11pm 7 days a week and conditions Terms and*Terms conditions apply. apply. Offer only available March April 2015 Offer only available through July and and August

ONE OF THE UK’S LARGEST DISTRIBUTORS OF PLASTIC BUILDING MATERIALS • MULTIWALL POLYCARBONATE SHEETS • GLAZING BARS & ACCESSORIES • DECORATIVE WALL CLADDING & SHOWER PANELS • UPVC FASCIA, SOFFITS, SKIRTING & ARCHITRAVE • CORRUGATED PVC, GRP & POLYCARBONATE ROOFING SHEETS • GUTTERING & DOWNPIPES - SQUARE & ROUND • CUT TO SIZE ACRYLIC & POLYCARBONATE SHEETS • DECORATIVE COVING & CORNICE • HYGIENIC WALL & CEILING LININGS • DYNOTILE - CLIP TOGETHER GARAGE FLOORING

IS IS STILL RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP!! We have moved to Millisons Wood !!

RIGHT OYUR DOORSTEP!!

Rockwell Sheet Sales Ltd Tel: 01676 522224 Rockwell House Birmingham Road Millisons Wood, Coventry CV5 9AZ

Opening Hours - Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat Morning 9am-12pm

WWW.ROCKWELL- MERIDEN.CO.UK ONE OF THE UK’S LARGEST DISTRIBUTORS OF

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Holiday accommodation rental in Spain

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All aspects of domestic installation and repairs • • •

Fully equipped with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, private roof terrace, swimming pool, garage, TV and air conditioning.

10 mins from the sea 40km from Alicante airport From £250 per week

Contact Malcolm Hickin 01676 248673 mhickin@tiscali.co.uk

• • • •

Fuse box upgrades Test and inspection Extra lights and sockets Security lights Full or partial rewires Digital TV aerials Free quotations

Phone Paul Telephone: 0121 764 5872 Mobile 07979 064835 Email: paulheath11@yahoo.com

Should you wish to contact the Parish Council, please contact the Clerk or drop into the Parish Council office on Monday mornings where you may access information or have a private chat with the Clerk to address local community issues.

The public and press are cordially invited to all parish council meetings at 7.30pm. An opportunity will be given for the public to speak. Look out for the agenda and venue which is posted on the parish notice boards and our website www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk prior to the meeting.

Barbara Bland The Pavilion

The next meeting dates are: • • •

Meriden Sports Park Main Road Meriden CV7 7SP

22 June 2015 - The Pavilion, Parish Council Meeting 27 July 2015 - The Pavilion, Parish Council Meeting 24 August 2015 - The Pavilion, Parish Council Meeting

Tel: 01676 522474 (Mondays) Mobile: 07767 162423 Email: barbarablandmpc@btconnect.com Web: www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk

Elections 2015 – results Your Parish Councillors, duly elected without contest, are:

Melanie Lee (Chair)

Rosie Weaver (Vice Chair)

Bob Kipling

Paul Lee

Mandy Haque

Frances Lynch-Smith

Jon Barber

Matthew Nunn

Your District Councillor, duly elected, is Cllr David Bell Candidate

Party

No. of Votes

BELL David

The Conservative Party

4591

CONNAN Cathy

The Labour Party

1019

KAYE Les

UK Independence Party (UK I P)

1046

PEARSON Mark Joseph

Green Party

528

Your District Councillors elected in 2014 and 2012 are:

Community surgeries at Meriden Library Held by Barbara Bland, our Clerk, and Bruce Brant, our Neighbourhood Co-ordinator from Solihull Council, at Meriden Library on Monday mornings from 10am – 12noon on: 8 June, 6 July and 10 August 2015

Cllr Ken Cllr Tony Allsopp (2014) Dicicco (2012)

If there is a preference for confidentiality you may arrange to meet Barbara and Bruce at The Pavilion. Please call Barbara so she may organise this for you during the Community Surgery time slot.

Police beat surgeries Sgt Emma Nottingham and her team will conduct their beat surgery on 22 June 2015 at Meriden Library and 28 July 2015 at the Sport Pavilion between 11am and 12noon. If you have any policing concerns do come along and discuss them with one of the local officers that is responsible for patrolling your area.

Neighbourhood Planning Following Cabinet’s approval of Meriden Parish as the designated area for Meriden’s Neighbourhood Plan, the parish council held its inaugural working group meeting on Tuesday 21 April 2015.

What’s in a Neighbourhood Plan?

• Objectives to meet the vision of the Plan • Policies to achieve the objectives • Explanatory text to support the policies Policies can include areas such as: • Housing and employment allocations, housing mix to meet community needs • Protection of important community facilities and promoting new ones • Protection of open spaces, playing fields and greens • Drainage and flood prevention • High quality design, conservation of historical assets • Promotion of walking and cycling routes • Protection of allotments and promotion of new growing space • Renewable energy and minerals extraction

What’s in it for us?

5 reasons why you should have a Neighbourhood Plan • Unprecedented opportunity to make your voice heard through the production of a binding set of planning policies • Gives you a lot more influence and control over the development of your area • Allows you to develop criteria and choose which sites are allocated for what kind of development and how that development should look • Helps you to deliver real, tangible, benefits for your area e.g. new homes for local people and the protection of open spaces for future generations to enjoy • Facilitates community cohesion through tackling local issues and aspirations which may otherwise be overlooked by SMBC

Neighbourhood Plans are parish council led but should operate outside of our standing orders. This means that community involvement is essential. The working group will meet monthly and we welcome more residents and local businesses to join us. To find out more, check our website at www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk or contact the Chair of the working group at rosie@meridenparishcouncil.org.uk.

Sports Camps this Summer at Meriden Sports Park 20 - 24 July 2015 27 - 31 July 2015 3 - 7 August 2015 10 - 14 August 2015 17 - 21 August 2015 24 - 28 August 2015 9am – 3pm each day. £10 per day or £40 per week. For boys and girls aged 5-12.

For each day please ensure you bring a packed lunch, healthy snacks, appropriate clothing as well as boots/trainers.

Please book through the Parish Council’s sports co-ordinator Paul Jayes on 07508 611922 or email Paul at visionfootballacademy@ymail.com to guarantee your child’s place on our Sports Camps. Book your place early as places are limited.

Pruning to the cedar tree Dovetail were commissioned to undertake the crown lifting and deadwood removal of the cedar tree on the green after inspection by Solihull Tree Officers.

Works involved removal of a large low bough that was establishing and seen as a potential hazard. A number of limbs had already failed and required removal along with all significant deadwood. Crown lifting the tree gives a balanced appearance from all aspects. In time the pruning wounds will soften and will be enveloped by the maturing tree. This beautiful tree is a focal point on

the green and the memorial plaque hidden below the tree can now be viewed and enjoyed by all visitors.

It’s time to feed the ducks!

Feeding advice from the Canal & River Trust: Just like you, ducks need to eat healthy food! Bread is really bad for them, so make sure they eat the right food such as porridge oats, rice (cooked or uncooked) grapes (cut in half), birdseed, peas, chopped lettuce, chopped vegetable peel. You should avoid giving ducks bread, especially white bread – and you definitely shouldn’t give them crisps, chips, crackers, chocolate or nuts.

Vandalism at Meriden Sports Park

Sadly, Meriden Parish Council has had to report incidents of vandalism at one of our assets for the community, Meriden Sports Park.

As unpleasant as it sounds, it needs mentioning that there have been repeat sightings of human faeces and toilet paper ‘dumped’ next to the tennis courts and most recently in the children’s play area.

The trees have also been vandalised with twigs being snapped off and bark cut off their trunks.

Benches too have been vandalised with graffiti.

Our contractors will continue to be observant and the police have been informed.

If anyone sees anything suspicious or unpleasant taking part in any part of our parish, please report to the Clerk.

Paradise Weddings & Special Occasions Venue Decor for any occasion!

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Nationwide set up/delivery Weddings, Birthdays, Christenings etc *Chair covers, sashes, table decor, chair decor *Starlit packages and LED Dance Floor *Chocolate fountain, candy cart or table, candy wheel *Huge range of centrepieces *Balloons *Artificial flowers & much more 50% off complete packages Showroom based in Catherine-De-Barnes, Solihull (email/call/text/FB message us to book your appointment)

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Tom’s Butchery Established 25 years 3 The Green Meriden Telephone

01676 522822 Fresh local farm chickens Fresh Barbecue meats Hand raised pork pies all sizes Ribs of beef on the bone Free range English pork Top quality lamb Wide selection of prize winning sausages • Wide selection of cheeses • Wide selection of bacon including dry cured English bacon

• • • • • • •

Newspapers and Magazines Beer and Wine Groceries and fresh produce Cash Machine and cash back available Dry Cleaning Lottery Award winning Lashford sausages Send and receive parcels from here Opening hours: Weekdays 6am – 10pm Weekends 7am – 10pm

Spar, 1 The Green, Meriden 01676 522287

Meriden Surgery

01676 522252

School House, 200 Main Road, Meriden, CV7 7NG Dr M Bhandal Dr S Barratt Dr A Carlile Dr T Nadeem Dr R Horsley (Partners) Associate GP Dr L Whitehead

1. www.balsallcommongrouppractice.co.uk

Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Wednesday

8.30am to 6pm 8.30am to 12.00

For details on how to obtain medical help when the surgery is closed please phone

01676 935000

Group Practice Personnel Update Dr Qureshi joined the practice in February as GP Registrar and is with us until August 2015. Dr Baylliss will be leaving the practice in May to join another practice.

Would you like to be added to our Distribution List to automatically receive a copy of our Newsletter?

If you would like to be added to the distribution list please contact Joanne Hope, Practice Manager in writing or by email to joanne.hope@nhs.net. We will then automatically send you the new newsletter by email or by post if you do not have an email facility DNA Appointments Patient’s who do not attend their appointments and do not cancel them is an ongoing major problem and has a significant effect on patients trying to book appointments to see the Doctor or the Nurse at the practice. The practice is constantly working towards trying to reduce the number of DNA appointments.

The Practice has set up a variety of options to allow a patient to cancel their appointment. These include – · By telephoning - 01676 522252 Meriden Surgery 01676935000 Balsall Common Surgery · By secure email to SOLCCG.BCCancelAppointments@nhs.net Please note that no other requests will be actioned via this email address. Please remember to include your name, date of birth, date and time of the appointment you wish to cancel and which staff member the appointment is with · Via our website www.balsallcommongrouppractice.co.uk You can either cancel an appointment you have booked using online access or send the practice a message via the website. If you have not already done so then sign up today for Online Access · By Fax - 01676 523865 Meriden Surgery 01676536848 Balsall Common Surgery · Face to Face at Reception · In Writing

Please help us to help you by cancelling any unwanted appointments to prevent valuable GP and Nurse appointment slots being wasted. With your help we can help prevent this!

Coventry Breathe Easy Well we have had another great term, with a visit from Warwickshire Wildlife Trust. We learned how to use a sewing machine, and the girls studied for their craft and speakers badges.

Due to family commitments I am giving up Meriden Brownies. I would like to say a massive thank you to all who have helped me over the last three years.

Hollie Andrews, Rebecca Court, Hannah, Hettie, Ella, Imogen and of course the parents for their support.

Your girls are a credit to you.

I would also like to thank the Methodist hall team for letting us use their facilities for the last three years.

If you are interested in taking over the leadership of Meriden Brownies then please contact me.

Sarah Markham sarahmarkhamuk@yahoo.co.uk 02476 369063

For more information please ring Cynthia on

02476 440316 A support group for all those affected by a lung condition, including friends, family and carers.

Meets on the 2nd Friday of every month.

2 – 4 pm The Lounge, Central Hall, Methodist Church Warwick Lane, Coventry, CV1 2HA

Friday 12th June Professor Sherwood Burge – Dangerous chemicals and pollutants in the workplace.

Friday 10th July Mike McKevitt – BLF London Head of Patient Services- What can the BLF do for you?

Friday 14th August Martyn Rubery from Community Lifestyle – Nutrition and Exercise followed

by Fire Safety – Orange Watch - Clive Berridge

Divorced but no financial settlement: Are you still looking over your shoulder?”

By Karen Beevers, Partner, Evans Derry Solicitors A recent landmark Supreme Court decision has raised considerable media attention, and even surprise, following a ruling that a woman is able to proceed with an application to claim cash from her ex-husband notwithstanding their divorce nearly 20 years ago.

The couple met in their early 20’s as students and married in 1981. They had a son and lived a New Age traveller lifestyle prior to separating. At the time of their divorce in 1992, neither had any considerable assets of any nature and financial matters were not addressed at all. 20 years later, Mr. Vince had become a very successful businessman, and a self-made millionaire in the renewable energy market. No doubt he was very surprised to receive notice of a court application for a financial claim from Mrs. Wyatt in 2011, claiming a sum of £1.9 million, some 19 years after the divorce proceedings had concluded.

However, Mr. Vince's efforts to have the application kicked into touch on the basis of being out of time were dealt a fatal blow by the Supreme Court. The court ruled unanimously that the claim should go ahead and was legally recognisable. Described by Mr. Vince as “mad”, the decision is, however, a timely reminder of the importance of getting financial affairs in order at the time of the divorce.

Family and divorce expert Karen comments “There is a common misconception that a divorce concludes any financial claims between husbands and wives.” Clients are often shocked when I explain to them that financial claims are ongoing until they are terminated by a court order, despite the passage of time passing since a divorce being concluded. It is important to note in this case that the Supreme Court has not determined the merits of Mrs. Wyatt’s claim, but has confirmed that it is legally recognisable and should proceed. To avoid such uncertainty in the future and to avoid the feeling of looking over one’s shoulder in years to come, I always advise people to sort out a financial settlement at the time of the divorce. That way, all can move forward with the next chapter of their lives with peace of mind.”

Should you have any questions or queries arising from the above, then contact Karen Beevers on 01675 464 400, or email karenbeevers@evansderry.com Karen has been working in family law for over 15 years as a specialist family lawyer, collaborative lawyer and family mediator.

A. PETTIFOR & SON LTD Warehousing & Distribution SELF STORAGE Now available For home and business CONTAINERS 10ft &20ft (600&1200 cubic ft) Lockable containerised units Easy access with your own personal key Drive direct to your clean and dry unit 10ft Containers from £18 per week 20ft Containers from £30 per week Discounts available for longer periods Berkswell Road, Meriden, Coventry CV7 7LB Tel: 01676 522403 Mob: 07917518724 Fax: 01676 523181 Email: martin.pettiforandson@gmail.com

Acanthus Picture Framer ------Calvin----Home Workshop 279 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common Tuesday -Friday 10.00am thru to 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 4.00pm Any other time by appointment

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The DigbyDigby-Bankes Family Family of Meriden Hall. [[[[[[[Kinwaldsey, William son of Gerard (possibly Geoffrey’s brother elsewhere called ‘ Gilmyn’), Richard Hill

Although Mrs Bankes had left Meriden Hall by the time I recall it, many villagers still remembered the Mason, Nicolas Godyng and many others. I imagine them all crowding round listening, all of 700 years ago. with affection her kindness and generosity to the villagers. The centenary of the death in the early stages of the Great War of Captain Edward Bankes her husband of only 9 years on 26 April 1915 on the Western Front Doreen Agutter. has acted as the spur to this brief account.

Lettice (Letitia) Adelaide Digby was born in London in 1882 the year after her parents’ marriage at St George’s, Hanover Square. Her father Charles Wriothesley Digby, newly graduated from Cambridge had also recently inherited Meriden Hall and an estate on the then edge of Birmingham. He was to sponsor a church there of which the author is a member.

Though much of Meriden parish was owned by the Aylesfords at Gt Packington Hall, the proximity of the Digbys living in the heart of the village meant they were viewed as the leaders of village society. Mrs Digby an enthusiastic horse woman frequently riding to hounds, was accidently killed in 1898. Her widower remarried in 1904.

Meanwhile Lettice planned her own wedding to Edward Bankes a relative on her mother’s side who was a professional soldier. No stranger to Meriden he had been educated as young boy at the preparatory school in Darlaston Hall opposite the Pool before going to Charterhouse. Serving in the Boer War and its aftermath, Lieu. Bankes rose through the ranks and was mentioned in despatches. By the end of 1905 Lettice obviously a daring young lady set out for South Africa to marry Edward in Pietermaritzberg a few weeks later. By the time he was promoted captain in 1908 they had two children, John and Adelaide. All moved with the army postings to Natal and the Transvaal.

England beckoned with the untimely death of Mr Digby in February 1908. Mrs Bankes decided to return home for the birth of her younger daughter Monica and Captain Bankes later resigned his commission to run the Digby property in Meriden, Small Heath and Bordesley, Birmingham. In the short period before the Great War (1914) they played a vital role in the village, its institutions and the parish church where a cousin was vicar. Captain Bankes’ success as an officer however led to tragedy. He was recalled as a reservist to serve on the outbreak of the Great War and early 1915 found him fighting in northern France with the Dublin Fusiliers. He had only been there 5 weeks when he was accidently killed in an incident of ‘friendly fire’ in a village just north of Ypres. The Captain was the village’s first fatality of the War. His widow left with children aged 8, 6 and 5 helped as a VAD at Berkswell Hall’s convalescent hospital during the War, organised Meriden’s branch of the Women’s Institute in the spring of 1918 and when peace came, set out to commemorate the Fallen by initiating the plan for the Wayside Cross on her ground at the corner of Berkswell Lane. She continued to be a focal point in village life until the outbreak of World War 2 with the hall and its grounds made available for children’s parties and adult’s Garden competitions. Mrs Bankes spent the war years from 1940 in the London area returning to Meriden in 1947 but decided to sell up that autumn. She was buried with her parents in a modest grave in the churchyard in 1953.Her husband is commemorated in the church by a work of art: a Camm of Smethwick stained glass window.

Doreen Agutter

PC Technical Services Tile Hill Lane Coventry

Home Computer Repairs Upgrading & Problem Solving

Telephone 024 7667 4952 Independent personal attention Internet & e-mail Troubleshooting & tuition

Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA Please forward to the Complaint Department I’d like to file a complaint, but I’m not sure where to send it. Is there a British Television Series Export Board or something? If so, would someone please pass this along to them? Thank you.

To whom it may concern: As you must know, quite a few British TV series, mainly situation comedies but also some crime shows and other odds and ends, find their way across the Atlantic, for which I’m glad. Compared to American shows, they tend to have more character development and fewer explosions. Some series that I will mention are a bit old, and there are probably lots of shows that I miss, either because I don’t have gold-plated cable service or because I know so little about finding these things online, so I’m speaking of shows like “Inspector Morse” and “Absolutely Fabulous” and even the ancient “Keeping up Appearances” and “Are You Being Served?”

There are also “Poirot,” “Father Brown,” “Foyle’s War” and “Grantchester,” and, of course, “Downton Abbey.” Shows I haven’t seen, for no particular reason, include “Call the Midwife,” “Broadchurch,” “Sherlock,” “Mr. Selfridge” and “Dr. Who.” Graham Norton? He should be shot with a tranquilizer dart. Gordon Ramsay? See below.

It can take some time for these shows to get over here. Fortunately, though, any off-hand remarks that might have been `m. topical at the time, and therefore are dated now, will pass right over our heads. Patsy Stone, for instance, might mumble something, under her Stolichnaya-saturated breath, to Edina Monsoon, in a decade-old episode of “AbFab,” and even those of us who know who Lulu is might not “get” it.

But we don’t care. Then there are the colorful figures of speech, including some fairly rude insults, which also are lost on us, though that may be a good thing. This brings us to Gordon Ramsay. He really is quite a potty-mouth. Of course, they bleep out anything they think us Yanks will understand, but that takes quite a bit of bleeping. And then he’s always looking for an excuse to change his shirt on camera, which we really don’t want to see.

What we do want to see are shows like “Inspector Morse,” with his lovely old Jaguar saloon, and the tasteful way they sneak the sound of Morse code into the theme music; and now there’s Kevin Whately, who has taken over as the inspector, and his sergeant is that slim young man who smokes lots of cigarettes, but elegantly. This show also proves that — contrary to the image of English weather that somehow informs the conventional wisdom — it’s nearly always sunny and warm, sort of like Florence but without the excessive heat. At least in Oxford.

“Top Gear,” on the other hand (all controversies involving Jeremy Clarkson aside) is obviously filmed at some disused NATO base, probably in Norway, where the rain never stops. In fact, most of the shows I’ve mentioned have much better weather than “Top Gear,” so I hope someone will report them to the BBC. Oh, wait; they are the BBC. In summary: Gordon Ramsay talks dirty and “Top Gear” is bad for British tourism. By the way, we have something here called BBC America, which does an evening news programme (see how I spelled that? or should I say “spelt”?) that they call a “show.” Now, to me, a “show” is something with dancing girls and kazoos and people pulling rabbits out of hats.

Graham Norton does a “show.” BBC America does a news programme.

Will someone please straighten them out? Thank you.

Reach Glenn Richter at grichter@record-journal.com.

Steven Russell Do you need a hand in the garden? Yes...

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Singing Teacher Singing for fun, choral Director Graded exams and Oxbridge Choral Scholarship preparation

senzadolcenew@aol.com 07854631284 02476673181 15a Ainsbury Road Coventry CV5 6BA

On 28 April, award-winning car designer Ian Callum visited the Heart of England School to speak to students about world class design and the importance of creativity.

Talking to 350 Year 8-13 students, the director of design at Jaguar met students and gave a presentation on design philosophy to show the importance of cutting edge design in everyday life. This was the first in a series of events school is running with Jaguar which will also include a number of students invited to Jaguar’s Design headquarters at Whitley in Coventry.

"The visit from Mr Callum underpins the commitment at Heart of England to learning by design, the school's core concept that there is 'no one way – by design,' with more than one road to success," said Principal Jacqueline Hughes-Williams.

Principal Jacqueline Hughes-Williams.

She also added, "Ian is a visionary role model for young people. His expertise fits perfectly with our own educational belief that design and creativity are central to the modern workplace. Ian’s visit will inspire our students as they work to create exciting futures."

Ian Callum said: “It has been a delight speaking to students today as design and creativity are so important to me, both personally and in my role at Jaguar.”

Ian Callum was recently honoured by the Chartered Society of Designers with the prestigious Minerva Medal – awarded for his outstanding contribution to automotive design. Earlier this month he was also rewarded the accolade of "Designer of the Year" by The Drum.

Ian’s designs at Jaguar include the Jaguar XK, followed by the XF and XJ saloon cars as well as more recent work including the CX75 supercar, featuring in the new Bond film, C-X17 concept, the F-TYPE two-seater sports car, and the new XE mid-sized sports saloon revealed last year.

Thank you very much to Ian for his time, energy and input. It was greatly appreciated by the students and we look forward to future events with Jaguar.

Marathon Woman!

Intrepid design and technology teacher Caroline Cannon ran the London Marathon on 26 April, raising funds for charity.

Miss Cannon had been training hard for the 26.2 mile ordeal by building up distances from shorter to longer over a period of time by following a training plan on the marathon website. In the last three weeks she has run 72 miles, despite suffering an injury a short while ago.

"I am not a natural runner though the training plan has really helped and I like the challenge," said Caroline, "And I took part in the first Balsall Fun Run last year which I enjoyed."

Caroline has collected sponsorship for the run for Hospice UK, who are a national charity for hospice care, supporting over 200 hospices in the UK. Hospice UK helps to provide everyone with a life-limiting or terminal condition with the very best care. Each year hospices in the UK collectively care for around 360,000 and their families.

Miss Cannon completed the run, despite a reoccurrence of her injury in 5 hours 39 minutes, walking some of the last part. She raised a fantastic £2000. Well done!

Heading for the Bar

Former student and Deputy Head Girl, Eleanor Mackereth has been awarded two scholarships setting her on the road to becoming a barrister.

Eleanor has received the Lord Denning Award from the Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn and The Presidents' Award from the University of Law which will help her on the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) which she is due to start in September 2015.

The Lord Denning Award came after a successful application and interview before a panel of QCs at the Lincoln's Inn. Eleanor is currently a fourth year student of Law with European and International Law at the University of Sheffield. She left Heart of England Sixth Form in 2011 after completing her A Levels to go to university.

The successful and dedicated student is delighted with her awards which will greatly assist in funding her course. "The greatest achievement in it all is that it seemed impossible at first," Eleanor said. A great achievement for our former student and we wish her well for the future.

Village Diary DATE 1st June 3rd June 7th June 7th June 8th June 10th June 13th June 14th June

EVENT WI School annual music evening Funday Sunday Kinwalsey Tree Service Community Surgery Reader’s Circle Firebird Singers Concert Maxstoke Castle Open Day

VENUE Village Hall Meriden School Village Green

15th June 16th June 20th June 20th June

Reading Cafe Flower Club Outing Firs Open Day Messy Church

nd

Warwick Arts Centre Maxstoke Lane

TIME 7.30pm 7.00pm 11.00 – 3.00 4.00pm 10.00am–12noon 7.30pm 7.30pm 11am – 5pm

CONTACT Flick Blewitt 01676 523229 01676 522488 Alan Lole 01676 522138 Andrew 01676 533 737 Barbara Bland 01676 522 474 Margaret 01676 523 603 John 07716 721 467

Library

10.30- 12 noon

01676 522717 Mo Reynolds 01676 521 457

Maxstoke Lane Methodist Church

11.00- 3.00pm 9.00am

Library

Andrew 01676 533 737

22 June

Parish Council Meeting

Sports Pavilion

7.30pm

Barbara Bland 01676 522 474

22nd June

Police Beat Surgery

Sports Pavilion

11.00 – 12 noon

Barbara Bland 01676 522 474

22nd – 26th June 26th June

School creative week and exhibition day, parents welcome CAMEO

Meriden School

01676 522488

Holiday at Home

Ellen 01676 522534

27 June 28th June

Big Picture Show Rotary Megaride

Village Hall Queens Head

7.30pm 12.30 – 5.00pm

28th June 3th July 4th July 6th July 6th July 7th/8th July

Berkswell Open Gardens P T A Summer Fayre Firebird Singers Concert W.I. Community Surgery Joseph & the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat Reader’s Circle Auction Night Summer Reading Challenge Flower Club afternoon tea Family Picnic in the Park School end of year service End of school summer term Messy Church Horticultural Show Heart of England Bike Ride Sports Camps

Berkswell village Meriden School Railway Bar and Grill Village Hall Library Meriden School

11.00 – 5.00 5.00- 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 10am–12noon 7th – 2.00pm 8th – 7.00pm 7.30pm 7.30p,m

Flower Club Reading Cafe CAMEO Whitacres & Shustoke Show Parish Council Meeting Police Beat Surgery Commemorative Cricket Match Meriden Mag Deadline W.I. Fillongley Show Community Surgery Readers Circle Parish Council Meeting CAMEO School autumn term begins

th

8th July 9th July 11th July 11th July 12th July 13th July 17th July 18th July 18th July 19th July 20th July 28th August 20th July 20th July 24th July 25th July 27th July 28th July 2nd August 3th August 3th August 9th August 10th August 12th August 24th August 28th August 3rd Sept

H of E club Library

Chris Copper 522 645 Neville 01676 532 709 01676 522 488 John 07716 721 467 Flick Blewitt 01676 523229 Barbara Bland 01676 522 474 01676 522488 Margaret 01676 523 603 Mary Warr 01676 522160 01676 522717

Sports Park St Laurence

1.00pm

Methodist Church St Peter’s Hall B C. Packwood House Meriden Sports Park

9.00am 2.00 – 4.00pm

Village Hall Library Sports Pavilion Blyth Hall Shustoke Sports Pavilion Sports Pavilion Meriden Sports Park

7.30pm 10.30- 12noon 2.00pm

Mo Reynolds 01676 521 457 01676 522717 Ellen 01676 522534

7.30pm 11.00 – 12 noon 1.00pm

Barbara Bland 01676 522 474 Barbara Bland 01676 522 474 Barbara Bland 01676 522 474

Village Hall Stonehouse Farm Library

7.30pm 9.30am 10.00am–12noon 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.00pm

Sports Pavilion Village Hall

Barbara Bland 01676 522 474 01676 522488 01676 522488 Andrew 01676 533 737

Paul Jayes 07508 611922

01676 522963 / 522453 Flick Blewitt 01676 523229

01676 522717 Margaret 01676 523 603 Barbara Bland 01676 522474 Ellen 01676 522534 01676 522488

Out and About this summer Visit the Think Tank Birmingham Science Museum The gallery recently opened tells the story of the Spitfire, from its innovative design and cutting-edge technology that played a key role in the Second World War, to its lasting legacy on the city of Birmingham. Explore how the Spitfire was built and learn about the science behind how aircraft fly. Birmingham's Castle Bromwich factory produced over 10,000 Spitfires including the example on display at the Thinktank.

Discover the story of the men and women who brought these iconic and much loved machines to life. iconic and much

Maxstoke Castle B46 2RD Open Day Sunday 14th June

Think Tank Millenium Point B4 7XG An Award winning science museum for fun packed family days out, open daily from 10am to 5pm.

There is an admission charge This summer, the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum Coventry hosts the largest ever UK exhibition of Roman artefacts on loan from the British Museum.

Roman Empire: Power & People brings together over 160 stunning pieces to explore the story of one of the most powerful empires the world has ever seen.

By kind permission of Mr and Mrs Fetherston-Dilke Approximately 4 acres of garden and grounds with herbaceous shrubs and trees surrounding the 14th century moated castle.

The interior and gardens will be open between 11am and 5pm No wheelchair access to house Admission £7.00 children £4.50 Free Parking Refreshments and homemade teas Plant and gift stall

Proceeds in aid of the National Gardens scheme and Maxstoke Church

Highlights include sculpture from the villas of the Emperors Tiberius and Hadrian, coins from the famous Hoxne treasure, beautiful jewellery and even nearperfectly preserved children’s clothing from Roman Egypt.

The exhibition explores the wealth, power and organisation of the Empire, but also how the Romans viewed their provinces and other peoples.

Heart of England Bike Ride Enjoy a great day out on Sunday 19th July, join hundreds of cyclists for the 10th annual Heart of England Bike Ride organised by Knowle and Dorridge Lions, from Packwood National Trust House. Choose between 13, 19, 31or 63 miles (20, 30, 50 or 100km) circular sign-posted routes along quiet country lanes through pretty Warwickshire villages, and help raise Funds for British Heart Foundation.

The exhibition also features rich material from collections in the Midlands, piecing together the story of local people and places under Roman rule. The exhibition is full of fun, hands-on activities for children of all ages, from Romanopoly to dressing up, and there are a wealth of extra events and activities throughout the run of the exhibition

visit www.knowleanddorridgelions.com/bikeride where you can find out how to register online for what is bound to be an excellent day out in the countryside with the option of visiting the beautiful historic Packwood House and gardens free and having a picnic from the Lions BBQ after your ride.

.

Bickenhill Public Waste Disposal Site Opening Hours Summer 1st April- 31st October Monday-Friday (except Tues) 9.30am -5.00pm Tuesday 9.30am – 6.30pm Saturday and Sunday 8.30am- 4.00pm

Useful village contact numbers Meriden Primary School Meriden Library Meriden Surgery Lloyds Chemist St. Laurence Church Meriden Methodist Church MCF Life Church Meriden Parish Council Sports co-ordinator Solihull M B C Solihull District Councillors

Mrs L. Winkler

Rev Lynda Lilley Rev. Andrew Charlesworth

Pstr. Kevin & Lyn Hunt Barbara Bland (Mondays & Thursdays only) Paul Jayes

Member of Parliament Meriden Scout Group Post Office Rural Police Sector

Ken Allsopp David Bell Tony Dicicco Caroline Spelman Gerry Russell Sue Harper Sgt Craig Hurst

Meriden Village Hall bookings

Valerie Martin

01676 522488 01676 522717 01676 522252 01676 522722 01676 522825 01676 533737 01676 523050 01676 522474 07962 375038.

0121 704 6000 01676 522301 01676 248651 07780438290 0121 711 7029 01676 522666 01676 522230 101 New nonemergency no.

01676 522963

Reminder deadline for autumn issue out by 1st September is Monday 3rd August Val Martin 01676 522963 val.simon@btinternet.com Margaret Argyle 01676 522453 margarete.argyle@gmail.com Distribution Doug Bacon and Paul Lee Proof Reader Claire Rose

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