MeridenMag Spring 2016

Meriden Mag

MERIDEN COVER SPRING 2016.qxp_Layout 1 16/02/2016 09:03 Page 1

Spring 2016

See inside for Annual Cyclists' Memorial Service News from Meriden Archery Club Village News, Events and Photos

Happenings at Meriden School

The year is whizzing by us once again - Spring Term is nearly half way through but I would like to mention the activities that took place, both in and out of school, before Christmas.

Staff, pupils, parents and members of our community enjoyed the Macmillan Tree of Thought on The Green with a friendly donkey and also Christingle at the Church where the children sang beautifully in a full church. In school, Key Stage 1 performed ‘Christmas Around The World’ and our nursery (FS1) pupils performed the nativity at St Laurence’s church which ensured that the true meaning of Christmas was clear in our thoughts.

We continue to invite parents and family in to share their children’s learning and experiences. These experiences are planned throughout the year so parents have the chance to see what it is like to be a child in school during the working day. Last term saw open mornings for Safety week and also for KiVa, our anti-bullying scheme. This term we held a literacy morning using picture books to inspire and amaze; on th the 9 March there will be an open session to showcase our Faith Week in school. We hold regular coffee mornings on the first Friday in every month and also Caterpillar club will soon be starting for our preschoolers every fortnight.

I should also mention the new members to our Meriden family – two chickens! Devan and Chuckie arrived in January courtesy of the ‘Little Lodge Farm Hen Project’ and are laying well! Year 5 children are in charge of their well-being and are doing a fabulous job. We are planning to use the eggs in our cookery lessons throughout the year.

Lucy Winkler

www.meridenceprimaryschool.co.uk 01676 52244

15th 21st 23rd

As you know, we have been working incredibly hard on anti-bullying strategies over the past year. As part of this work, some parents, staff and children have been taking part in ‘B.I.G.’ meetings, which stands for the Bullying Intervention Group. Just before Christmas we submitted our portfolio of our work at school to this national group and we have just been informed we have achieved the award for excellence in anti-bullying!

We are thrilled to achieve this national accolade. Work on bullying is never over but this external recognition shows we are doing the right thing for our children.

For more information visit www.bullyinginterventiongroup.co.uk Parent Questionnaire #loveourschool

Just before Christmas we sent out a questionnaire to all parents in order to get a picture of their thoughts about our school and also to help us to continue to improve.

67 were returned and they were overwhelmingly positive. We are thrilled with the results!

Highlights were: 99% of parents reported that their child feels safe in school 99% says their child is happy 100% says teaching is good The full results can be found at www.meridenceprimaryschool.co.uk/parent%20que stionnaire%202015.pdf

@meridenprimary March 2nd 7th—11th 7th 9th

AWARD WINNERS!

School Dates Parent Council, 18.30 Faith Week Y3 visit Civic Suite to meet the mayor Faith Week Open Morning School Council Civic Suite to meet mayor Y5 visit Jorvick Centre, York ‘Experience Easter’ Year 4 to Kingswood Break up

Summer Term April 11th 12th 26th May 9th—13th 23rd—26th 26th 26th 27th 30th -3rd

INSET Day—staff only Back to school Maths Open Morning KS2 test week Sports Week Sports Day & Family Picnic Break up INSET day—staff only HALF TERM

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 every Sunday at 10.30 am What do you think about when you think of Easter?

Eggs, chocolate? The Easter bunny, chocolate? Buds on the trees, chocolate? Daffodils, chocolate? The lambs frolicking in the fields, Spring, the promise of Summer? The list could go on and on. Oh and more chocolate!

Easter is early this year, though not as early as it could be. Yet when we look we can see many of the signs of new life that we associate with Easter already around us. The daffodils have been flowering since late January! Perhaps the signs of new life are springing within your life, perhaps there is that glimmer of light, maybe you're in full flower? Wherever you find yourself in your life there is ALWAYS hope, ALWAYS the promise of the future.

Easter is a time of hope and promises. A time to look at the gifts of creation and the secrets they hold; the life within the egg (or the surprise within a Kinder Egg), the daffodil sprouting from the seemingly dead bulb, new life in the lambs being brought forth from their mother's womb. Something very special is happening. From what was dormant new life is springing.

Sometimes we find ourselves in these 'dead' places; places where there seems to be no hope, no promise of the future. We can feel only despair.

Jesus found himself in such a place. He was persecuted, scorned, rejected and ultimately arrested, beaten and humiliated; forced to carry his cross through the streets of Jerusalem to Calvary, a hill outside the city walls. He was crucified – died – and was buried. Buried in a dark and lonely place, a stone was rolled in front of the tomb. Jesus was in that dark place … but not for long. On the third day He rose again to new life. It's just like the life within the egg, the daffodil sprouting from the seemingly dead bulb, new life in the lambs being born. New life springing from the darkness.

Something very special is happening.

If you find yourself in that dark, lonely place, take heart: new life will spring forth. You might just need a helping hand to crack the eggshell, push your budding head through the soil or venture out into a new existence. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life”. Let Him be your friend, your brother, your guide as you move forward to new life, from dark to light, from sorrow to joy.

The darkness of winter is passing, the days lengthen, the sun shines and its gentle warmth and light shine into the world. Let the light of Christ shine into your situation, may you be comforted and wrapped in His warmth.

Come and share with us at St Laurence, there will be a very warm welcome for everybody – all are welcome – all are special – all can receive new life in Christ Jesus. And of course, we can all enjoy some chocolate!

Enquiries for Baptisms and Weddings please contact Lynda on 01676 522825 for further details

Forthcoming events that you might like to attend at St Laurence Church 10:30am Mothering Sunday 6th March with a little gift for all who 'mother'. (It might even be chocolate!)

21st-23rd March 7:30pm Quiet reflection for Holy Meriden Play Group Week “Where Friends are made” 25th March 10:30am Walk of witness – Meriden Churches Together invite you to join them for a walk Enquiries for Baptisms and from Meriden Primary School to St Laurence Church.

Weddings, please contact Lynda on 27th March 9:00am Easter Day. Bringing in the followed by a fish breakfast.

01676522825 for further details light service, 27th March 10:30am Easter Day service …

Meriden Methodist Church Hall followed by an Easter Egg Hunt. Definitely chocolate!

Every Tuesday during Term Time 10am-12 Sunday 22nd May 11.00am Join us for a fun playtime with your child, The Green Annual Cyclists Memorial Service where you can make new friends, do crafts, play with different toys, sing songs and Friends of Meriden Churchyard. enjoy a healthy snack (and a cup of tea or This group meets at the Church at 10.00 am on the 2nd coffee.) £2 for one child + 50p for each and 4th Wednesdays each month to do some gardening additional child. and other maintenance in the Churchyard for a couple Call Sharon Corrigan 07811 588504, or of hours, and also to share coffee, cake, and Vanessa Florey 07876 301620 conversation. for more information

Saturday 23rd April 2016

“BROOKLYN” (12A)

At Meriden Village Hall 7.30pm

.

* WEDNESDAY 16th March 2016 *

This is an Oscar nominated film based on Colm Toibin’s acclaimed novel. It tells the tale of Eiles, a young Irish woman who leaves her sleepy home town of Enniscorthy in the Fifties, for a future full of hope and promise in Brooklyn, New York. Beautifully shot on both sides of the Atlantic, the film stars Saoirse Ronan, Julie Walters and Jim Broadbent. Not to be missed.

Saturday 21st May 2016

*Please note the Midweek screening date “SPECTRE” (12A) Daniel Craig stars in the latest adventures of 007.

James Bond receives a cryptic message from his past which sends him on a trail to uncover “SPECTRE”, a sinister organisation. A great screening, which is well worth a viewing for the special effects alone.

“THE LADY IN THE VAN” (12A) (Rights pending) A big screen adaptation of writer, Alan Bennett’s iconic and celebrated memoir of his relationship with itinerant Miss Shepherd, a woman of uncertain origins who “temporarily” parks her van on his London drive and stays for 15 years! Starring Maggie Smith at her finest, ably supported by Alex Jennings, Roger Allam, James Corden and Jim Broadbent, this is another triumph not to be missed.

Tickets will be printed and available for sale 3 weeks before each screening.

We are most grateful to “Fredanita” flowers and gift shop on the Village Green for continuing to sell tickets for us. Tickets and advance reservations are also available from Chris Copper (01676 522645)

Take away service 10% discount on collection Free home delivery service 4 miles radius Minimum order £15 “Meriden Spice will be celebrating one year of being in business and providing our customers with quality food and dining experience. Proud winners of the Good Food Awards 2015 and a 4 star food and hygiene rating by the Food Standard Agency.

An amazing year for Meriden Spice with much more to come in the New Year”- Saj (Manager)

Meriden Spice, Old Road, Meriden, CV7 7JP

One free chicken or vegetable curry with every Takeaway order of £25 or more

Tel: 01676 523740

Not to be used with any other voucher

Entrance and parking at rear of Queen’s Head Pub

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. Café Church 4.00pm 1st Sunday in the Month only Easter is very early this year and so I have not had much chance to think of an Easter joke to start this month.

What do you get if you pour boiling water down a rabbit hole?

Hot cross bunnies!

But certainly however early Easter is in the calendar, Christians should always be ready to speak about the resurrection of Jesus, for it stands at the centre of our faith.

Indeed, without the events of that first Easter Sunday, Jesus would have been another martyred Jew in a violent and brutal century and would have been forgotten long ago.

One of the reasons the resurrection is so significant for Christians is because it opens the door to consider whether “Jesus merely was or whether he also is”(Pope Benedict). Or in other words, is Jesus merely an important historical figure who we might learn from and be inspired by, or is he someone who Christians believe is alive today and at work in their lives.

What do Christians mean when they say that Jesus is alive in their lives? The first accounts of the resurrection make it clear that it was not always easy to put into words how people experienced that Jesus is alive. In some ways, it is always intangible, difficult to pin down.

One way that I would say Jesus is alive is that he gives meaning, purpose and direction to my life. There are times when I feel prompted to do something and it turns out that I end up in the right place at the right time. Not so long ago, I was driving back from somewhere and suddenly one particular person came to my mind. Her husband was in hospital and I decided to visit the hospital to see him. In the event, he was going through tests but it was the perfect time for someone to be there as the consultant was talking to the person who had been on my mind and I was able to sit in and be a second pair of ears. Some would say this is just a coincidence, but for Christians these things seem to happen so often that we have no doubts that there is more to it than that.

There are lots of other ways I feel Jesus is alive in my life today. Perhaps the one I will finish this article with is that if Jesus is alive today, it opens the door to new possibilities in life for anyone. However, messed up our world is, however many mistakes we have made along the way, the resurrection says that where we find ourselves is not the end of the story. I have seen this hope realised in so many people that on Easter Sunday I will declare loudly and proudly, “he is risen, he is risen indeed”.

Love, peace and joy. Andrew Diary Dates 27th March Easter Day Celebration at Balsall Common Methodist Church 6th April Supper Club 7.00pm.

The speaker will be talking about Dogs for the Disabled, Please contact Maureen on the number below

The Methodist Church Hall is available for hire. Please contact Alan and Maureen Gabbitas On 01676 522148

Womens World Day of Prayer Friday 4th March 2 pm at the Methodist Church followed by tea All welcome Praying for Cuba

What happened to the Easter Bunny when he misbehaved at school?

He was eggspelled!

QueensHead Head Old Old Road Road Meriden Meriden Queens 01676 522256

01676 522256

Monday night is music night come along th March 9.15pm Keithapprox.

Brett and join us, music7 starts 14thth March Chrissy 7 st March KeithBowen Brett 21 March Matt 14thth March Chrissy 28 st March Stevie Bee

Monday night is music night come along and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx.

21 March th 28 th March

4 April th 11 April 4ththApril th 18 11 April April th 25 April 18th April 25th April

2nd May nd May 92ththMay 9 May Thomas 16thth May May 16 23rdrdMay 23 thMay 30th May 30 May rd

Matt Bowen Stevie Bee

Jakki Guy JakkiSurtees Marade Guy Surtees 2Marade Left Feet 2 Left Feet

Micky Dean Micky Dean Dean

Dean Thomas Sam Southall Sam Southall Stevie Best Stevie Best TBA

TBA

St Georges Day 23 April ‘The Great War Society’ are stationed here for two days, a chance to see living history in the lives of our soldiers during 1916 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

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

PA ELECTRICS (17

th

edition qualified) Part P Registered

All aspects of domestic installation and repairs • • • • • • •

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

• • • • • •

Servicing Repairs Tyres Exhausts Suspensions Brakes

Call in for a quotation for your motoring needs

01676 521010 Meriden Garage, Temporary premises Back of Shirley’s Garage, Main Road, Meriden

New Showroom.

Now open

Direct Carpets & Flooring

Stockists of leading Manufacturers Carpets, vinyls, laminates, real woods, underlays and accessories For a no obligation free quotation call in to see us or…we will come to you

The Old Forge Stores, 68 Balsall St, Balsall Common CV7 7AP T: 01676 530695 Mob: 07775 515504

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

01676 522822 Fresh local farm chickens 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 Cash Machine and cash back available Dry Cleaning Lottery Award winning Lashford sausages Send and receive parcels from here Normal opening hours throughout Easter Weekdays 6.00am -10pm Weekends 7.00am-10pm

Spar, 1 The Green, Meriden 01676 522287

A Message from Caroline Spelman MP Last year, the Government set out its long-term strategy to improve Britain’s highways through a comprehensive investment package totalling £15 billion of spending over the next parliament. These funds will be used to support over 100 major schemes in order to enhance, renew and improve current roads and will pay for the construction of over 1,300 additional lane miles.

Accessibility is something which is essential to help rural communities such as Meriden thrive - with many residents reliant on local roads to commute to and from work, to visit family, go shopping and socialise. However, the task of maintaining and improving our transport networks is huge, and for many local residents the impact of essential maintenance and improvement works can be frustrating.

In recent months, prolonged work to improve sections of the A45 has really impacted upon residents in Meriden – slowing their journey times and contributing to further congestion of an important link between Meriden, Coventry and Birmingham. These problems have also been persistent at the weekend when the roadworks remain in place – often in the absence of highways workers.

For that reason, I am pleased to welcome new measures being considered by the Secretary of State for Transport, to crackdown on the disruption often caused by roadworks on local A-roads, such as the A45 in Meriden.

Under the proposals, local authorities and utilities companies would be penalised for failing to continue work at the weekends if the roadworks remained in place and were found to be contributing to delays or other traffic problems.

I believe this will be welcome news to families and businesses in Meriden, who rely on our local roads to get around. Many of us will have experienced the disruption that roadworks can cause, yet by encouraging 7-day working, or the lifting of works at weekends, I am confident these changes could help minimise the inconvenience we all face and, reduce overall time taken for these works to be completed.

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.

Contact Flick Blewitt 01676 523229

As our meeting is held at the beginning of each month we celebrated Christmas early with our Christmas party on 7th December. We enjoyed a buffet supper provided by the members, while we were entertained by the ladies from ‘Good Company’ In January we discussed the eight resolutions put forward for consideration for the AGM in June. We submitted our votes, which will then be forwarded to the Federation. In due course we will learn which resolution has been chose for consideration in June.

Also in January we enjoyed a New Year’s meal at the Strawberry Bank Restaurant.

The speaker scheduled for our February meeting had to cancel at the last minute, fortunately one of our members Margaret Houldsworth, volunteered to tell us about her life as a diplomat’s wife, first in Nigeria and then Uganda – where she met Idi Amin ! We all thoroughly enjoyed her talk and are grateful to her for stepping in – Thank you Margaret.

Future Programme Monday 7th March Retirement – David Berry Monday 4th April ‘Grandad Songs’ Alan Tumber Monday 9th May ‘Merrie Month of May’ Dr Colin Harris Please note change of date due to Bank Holiday VISITORS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME

A family run business, for the ultimate ladies hair, barbering and beauty / experience Spring is coming !

Mother and daughter dual package Ideal Mother’s Day Gift Choose between hot stone back massage or facial only £49 Book a pedicure and receive a luxury manicure ½ price Full body indulge and detox only £30 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

Quickslim body wrap – average loss of 7½ inches per wrap 20% off a course of three

Meriden Fish Fish and Chips The Green, Meriden

Gift boxes, vouchers and couple packages available

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

Chartered Financial Planners and Employee Benefit Consultants

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

01676 523476

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

www.jamiesonchristie.com Email: mail@jamiesonchristie.com Jamieson Christie Wealth Management Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Meriden Rotary Club – President’s Message .The last two months have seen a very busy time for Meriden Rotary Club.

We kicked off with our Annual Santa Fun Run on Sunday 6th December. Runners set out from Meriden Hall to cover the 4KM course in good weather but unfortunately returned in the rain.

At least it was not windy. Marquee erection the previous day had to be postponed when a number of Rotarians including myself almost took off like Mary Poppins along with the marquee.

Numbers were down slightly probably due to weather concerns but rain or no rain there were many, many happy smiling faces. We raised around £4000 for our Charities. You can see a video clip of the start of the race on our website http://www.meriden-santa-fun-run.org.uk/ where photographs of the race will also be available soon.

On Monday 7th December we started 7 evenings taking Santa on his sleigh around Meriden, Hampton and Fillongley villages. Thankfully we were blessed with decent weather and as always it was quite wonderful to see the delight on the faces of the children – and many grown-ups too. We raised about £1700 from our collections.

Our Club Christmas Party was held at the Manor and we were served a very special Christmas Dinner. Followed by carols played by the very accomplished City of Coventry Brass Band.

After a break over the Christmas festivities we returned to prepare for “The Old Folks” Christmas Party which we held at Fentham Hall as we have done every year since the Clubs’ Foundation 37 years ago. A 3-course meal with wine and other beverages was served up by the Rotarians. Entertainment was provided by “Three plus Three” who provide a wide range of music and comedy.

Our next big event is the Annual Meriden Megaride on Sunday 26th June at The Queens Head field. Bikers are coming from around the country – last year we had one from Australia. There will be stalls, bike displays and other activities together with a band to provide entertainment. Food and drinks will be available.

We have a continuing full programme of interesting speakers for our meetings Save the date: on Tuesday evenings at the Manor Hotel and anyone interested in joining us Rotary Megaride should come along at 7.00pm or if you prefer give me a call. th

Tony Hill President Meriden Rotary Club 01676 540502

Sunday 26 June 2016

Review of the Local Plan for Solihull Borough In December, Solihull Council went out for consultation on the review of its Local Plan. Although the Plan was only adopted in 2013, as with a number of other plans in the West Midlands, there was a requirement that it contain a clause for review to comply with its legal duty to cooperate in respect of the unmet need of its neighbours, notably Birmingham, although it must be remembered Solihull itself also has a large unmet need.

The need for new homes, and the extent of under-building, is a national problem that has not been tackled by successive governments. However, the West Midlands has one of the worst statistics outside London, only meeting a little over half of assessed need in the last five years, for example. The need for new housing can be a source of robust debate, but one thing is clear: longer life-expectancy of itself means there is additional need almost everywhere, coupled with demand for different types of accommodation, such as more single person homes. The Government has made it clear that they will act if effective plans are not in place by next year.

Solihull has a special problem. It has some of the best schools in the country, attractive environment, a dozen Green Flag Parks, proximity to key transport links and this is all set to intensify with the prospect of HS2. Demand for homes is inevitably very strong. Despite this, the Council has for a long time set protection of the Green Belt and quality of environment as priorities.

The consultation document sought views on a range of questions about the scale of growth, where it should go, what is needed to accompany that growth. The consultation period closed in January and the replies and information supplied will be processed by the team at the Council, who will later in the year come up with options for dealing with the growth, based on the latest evidence and data.

One thing has come out loud and clear already in the discussions that have been held with communities - don’t just ‘dump' housing on us, without considering carefully what the needs are for infrastructure and facilities: effective transport links, schools, medical facilities and so on. As the officer team at the Council go through the consultation process, they will be looking at all the proposals taking proper account of all these issues: the technical word used is ‘sustainability’.

Government policy has been pushing the localism agenda, with neighbourhood plans in particular, which allow communities to consider and propose where new development should go, which can open up the door also for local improvements in infrastructure and local facilities. Personally, I can sympathise with the reluctance of communities to seek more development, but it remains an option. A number of neighbourhood plans are emerging in Meriden constituency and we have said that we want to see them move forward in tandem with the Local Plan review.

Last time, we picked up the Local Plan after my spell as Mayor, indeed from a different administration, towards the end of the process. This time I have tried hard to ensure there is much more engagement with communities. It is just not possible for us to continue to pretend this housing problem will go away, and decisions will have to be taken, but rest assured that elected members in the rural areas are very conscious of the great pride and community feeling there is locally and the need for Solihull Borough to remain the gem that it is in the West Midlands, in accordance with our motto “Urbs in Rure".

Cllr Ian Courts, Deputy Leader & Cabinet Member for Managed Growth, Solihull M.B. Council

What time of the year is it when you're on a Trampoline? Spring time!! As you've guessed by that, I never was any good at telling jokes! However, Spring is in the air, and the daffodils in my garden are looking a bit confused as to what time of the year it is, because they came out early January and then got hit by the frost. I know we moan all the time about the weather in this country, ''It's too cold, it's too hot, it's too wet' it's too dry'', etc. etc. but we really are blessed to have the different seasons, and all of them have their good points and something to celebrate.

Winter has the long nights, the cold weather and a lot of rain or snow, but it's also a time when all the streets and houses come alive with different coloured lights as we head towards Christmas and the celebration the Birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. (For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)) Spring sees the days getting longer and new life appearing all around us as the blossom and leaves start to come on the trees and the shoots start to come out of the ground and hundreds of Daffodils spring up in gardens and along the side of many of our roads, and Lambs being born and jumping around the field. It's also the time when we as Christians remember the amazing act of love demonstrated by Christ as He gave His life for us on the cross, opening up the way for us to have new life if we chose to.(For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)) Then there's Summer, and for some a time of swatting for exams as they approach the end of the academic year, but on the bright side, we have the long days and short nights, the warmth of the Sun, and holidays to look forward to and enjoy. Also by this time all the flowers are in full bloom, fruit is appearing on the trees and.........the grass needs cutting!! (But for you who fear my Name, the Son of Righteousness will rise with healing in His wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves in the pasture. (Malachi 4:2)) Then comes autumn, and the nights start to draw in and the temperature starts to drop. But what an amazing display of colour we get from all the trees as the leaves start to change from green, to reds, browns, oranges etc. And we look forward to celebrating the Harvest Festival and giving thanks for the Lord's provision as the land yields its abundant crops. (Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. James 5:7))(And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)).

As we go through 2016, there will be good and bad times in our lives, but sometimes how we look at things can make a difference to how we are able to enjoy the good times and get through the bad. Jesus told us that we would have troubles in this world, but not to worry. (''I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.'') And as we draw close to Him, He promises never to leave or forsake us. (Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ''Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'' (Hebrews 13:5)). So may you know God's peace and Blessings on your life as you journey through 2016. Shalom.

Kevin and Lyn Hunt.

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 over 260 members 26 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 21st March 2016 25th April 2016 ** 23rd May 2016

Topic Climbing Mount Everest Birds of the British Isles Food Banks – Trussell Trust

Speaker John Shelton-Smith Ashley Grove Emma Schooler

Core meetings are held in the Balsall Common Village Hall, Station Road and start at 2:00 pm.

Prospective members are always welcome to attend. ** The AGM of the Balsall Common U3A will be held before the talk at the April Meeting

For more information see our web site www.balsallcommonu3a.org or telephone the Chairman Jim Melville 01676 534938.

St Patrick's Day push to raise funds for Alzheimer's Society It can be a real problem sitting with supportive, enthusiastic and creative people at the Queen's Head Pub (not forgetting to mention my equally supportive partner). Not only do they encourage my ideas (some of which really should be confined to the 'bonkers bin') but they often offer to get involved and help. out too.

So when I said 'I would like to play my guitar and sing Irish Music in Solihull Town Centre on St Patrick's day (March 17th) AND raise funds for Alzheimers Society' there was instant 'buy in' and support which couldn't be reversed (or wear off with the effects of that pint of Guinness) You see, my friends knew the truth and circumstances behind my statement - i.e. that my dear old dad (a gentlemen and poet who was born in Ireland but lived many years in Birmingham and Solihull) had recently passed away due to 'Dementia'. He had supported the Alzheimers Society too with donations since his partner of 20 years had also lived with (and died of) the disease. So my dad had been a carer and victim. My friends also had relatives who had been lost to the disease - hence being instantly supportive.

And - although Brummie born - I like playing Irish Music and singing some of the traditional Irish songs that time has nearly forgotten. So it just felt right Any road up, after emails to Alzheimer's Society and the Manager of Touchwood, I had gone well past the point of no return. They loved the idea and I was booked a prime spot to sing to the passers-by within Touchwood.

And hopefully those shoppers might deposit a penny or two in a bin (sponsored by The Rotary Club) - all monies collected to go to Alzheimer's Society The only stipulations were they we had to be 'very green and friendly and sing only Irish songs'.

And so if you read this before the 17th of March and want to join in this bit of nonsense - come along to Touchwood (between 10.am and 2pm) to join in the singing and have a dance in the shopping aisle by the entrance to John Lewis. You would be most welcome. If you are reading this after St Patrick's day and are still in a state of 'post recovery' from a guitar bearing leprechaun and his 'supportive friends and partner' intent on serenading your Touchwood shopping experience on St Patrick's day you'll know what it's all about.

For me it's about honouring my father's memory in a way that brings some practical benefit and maybe a smile to someone's face.

So if you (a) have a talent that is seldom used (b) could be turned into something that could benefit others and (c) could bring you a great amount of pleasure and satisfaction - then maybe it's not a good idea to discuss it with my friends and me at the Queen's Head!

My sincere thanks to Touchwood staff and my friends and partner too for their wonderful support

Happy St Patricks Day David McGrath Eaves Green Lane Meriden Meriden Floral Society Meetings are held at Meriden Village Hall 7. 30 – 9.30pm approx On the 3rd Monday of every month

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!

Please make a note in your diaries of the following events:

21st March

Magic Moments – Sandra Gunner

18th April

Springtime Sensations – Laura Lelong

th

16 May A May Baby – Andrew Lloyd NB This is an open meeting Our year starts in March. Why not come along and join for the year? It will cost you just £27 for the whole year.

Otherwise pay as you go at £5 each visit

New members are always welcome.

For more information please contact Mo Reynolds 01676 521457

“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

Naturopathic Medicine Janet E Spence ND Iridology Naturopathy Scenar Therapy Nutritional Advice Colon Hydrotherapy Manual Lymphatic Drainage Janet E Spence is a Registered Naturopathic Practitioner with many years of experience within the complementary healthcare sector. From her clinics in Birmingham and Warwick she offers a variety of treatments with an emphasis on preventative healthcare.

The Northwood Practice

01926 334288 janetespence@hotmail.com www.janetespence.com Member of the British Register of Complementary omplementary Practitioners

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 Sports Pavilion on the 4th Friday of the month at 2.00 p.m.

CAMEO

In November we welcomed Helen Gibson from SSAFFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families) a U.K. charity that provides lifelong support toEach serving men at and and veterans from the British Armed Forces and their Come and Meet Other thewomen Community Centre on the 4th Friday of the families or dependants. explained they were founded in 1885 for soldiers and sailors as then, of course, month atHelen 2.00 p.m. there was no Air Force. Now known as SSAFFA they also look after both airmen and sailors in the Merchant Navy.

SSAFFA run Norton Homes and Helen, as Deputy Manager of the one in Selly Oak, had come to talk about her . has been at Norton House since it opened in February 2009. It was built near the Queen Elizabeth work there. She Hospital to provide home from home accommodation all year round for families visiting wounded, injured or sick service personnel in hospital. It is a seven bedroomed house with two lounges and a large fully equipped kitchen/diner. There is no charge for accommodation, the only cost is for food as it is a self- catering facility. It is like a home in order to provide a sense of normality where people can relax. There is official support available but also the support of other families there who understand exactly what relatives are going through and can share experiences.

We celebrated Christmas with a varied programme. After an opening carol we had a humorous reading of letters that might have been sent from the recipient of the presents in the song ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ to the sender, starting with thanks for the gifts but eventually culminating in solicitors’ letters as the days and presents carried on! We then sang ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ before watching a funny Christmas sketch put on by Sue Fuller with the help of three volunteers. We sang more carols and listened to John Betjeman’s poem ‘Christmas’ before enjoying shortbread, sausage rolls and mince pies.

In January instead of a speaker we shared memories of Christmases past and present. We discussed a very good recent television programme called ‘Back in Time for Christmas’ and agreed that the Christmases depicted from the 40s to the 90s were as we remembered them. One member even recalled cooking an ox’s heart, as shown.

Christmas celebrations have definitely become so much more lavish and expensive over the decades and children’s expectations too have grown. Many recalled having stockings with an orange, shiny pennies and very little else. We also heard from members about their experiences of Christmas in Pakistan,, Austria, France, Zambia and on the Suez Canal!

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:-.

18th March – David Crout will talk on ‘New light on old hymns’.

22nd April – We will have a meal out.

27th May –

To be confirmed.

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

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

Update on the West Midlands Combined Authority - Cllr Tony Dicicco In the previous edition of the Meriden Mag, I discussed what the West Midlands Combined Authority (the WMCA) would mean for the residents of Meriden. In short, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council’s (SMBC) participation in the WMCA should bring a number of benefits such as better transport links, improved training and skills development and should help secure long-term funding and investment that would help boost economic growth and employment opportunities. By working together, members of the WMCA can deliver shared strategic priorities that are better addressed at a scale above local boundaries.

Solihull has played a key role in framing how the seven constituent councils, the three existing local enterprise partnerships and a number of districts that make up the WMCA could work together. Solihull was awarded the chair of the Shadow WMCA and this has put us in a key position to shape the future of the WMCA. In October 2015, the seven constituent councils (those authorities with full voting rights) approved a document (known as the “Scheme Document”) that provides the legal basis for the establishment of a WMCA and contains the membership, powers, functions and voting arrangements.

It is proposed that the WMCA is established based on these proposals. Following the publication of the Scheme document, a proposed Devolution Deal was signed by the Leaders of the seven constituent councils and the three Local Enterprise Partnership Chairs last November. This proposed Devolution Deal describes the obligations on each of the parties signing the deal and the benefits that they will receive.

Though a Combined Authority is necessary for delivering devolution, setting up a basic Combined Authority has no bearing on whether in future there is to be a mayor for that authority. It is important to note that Solihull MBC’s approval of the Devolution Deal, and the parliamentary Order to create the West Midlands Combined Authority will require a decision of all Solihull Councillors.

The creation of the Combined Authority is planned to be in two stages. The first stage will be the creation of the WMCA – this is planned to be completed by early May after debate in both the House of Commons and the Lords. Solihull Councillors will debate at their Full Council Meeting on 1st March whether Solihull MBC should become a member of the WMCA. Once set up, the WMCA will have powers over integrated transport schemes and have limited regeneration powers.

The second stage seeks to devolve powers to the WMCA as laid out in the agreed Devolution Deal. This is likely to happen in early 2017. As part of the agreement, a mayor will be elected to lead the newly created WMCA. The election is planned to take place in May 2017. The creation of a mayor for the WMCA has been a controversial issue, and this will be a serious matter for consideration by Solihull councillors. I believe that the benefits from any Devolution Deal outweigh any potential downsides from having a “West Midlands Mayor”. The Mayor would operate within a partnership model which would see his/her powers limited by the “Cabinet structure” of the WMCA. All major budgetary and financial decisions would require a unanimous vote of the constituent members – thus Solihull would be able to protect its interests.

By agreeing to the Devolution Deal, Solihull MBC would receive direct investment of £636 million over a 30-year period. In addition, we would receive a share of the £492 million investment for the metro link between Birmingham and the proposed Interchange station at Bickenhill. In short, Solihull would receive a substantial proportion of the overall investment into the West Midlands. Based on what is in the proposed Devolution Deal, I support Solihull MBC’s participation in the WMCA as it offers a tremendous opportunity to obtain the investment we need to take the borough forward to a MEMBERS WANTED – EVERYONE WELCOME! more prosperous future, whilst protecting our independence and our status as one of the best places to live in the UK. If you would like to discuss this issue with me, or indeed any other local issue, please contact me at: tony.dicicco@solihull.gov.uk.

MERIDEN TREE OF THOUGHT. .The Tree, which was severely tested by Mother Nature, was again wonderfully supported by all areas of the village .I

received very kind donations from Lord & Lady Aylesford, De Mulder Enterprises, Pertemps, Cassidy Group, ToBook, Spar Shop, Fordes on The Green, CFS Motors, John Williamson( Kleeneze) and Meriden Village Hall Management Committee. At this time, I cannot state the overall amount raised as I have yet to receive and pay out more money. As soon as this is done, I will put the figure on the website and facebook and will, of course, publish in the next Mag. I can tell you that the sale of The Christmas Cards generated £ 609.53. Profit and The Symbols of Thought returned £ 678.50. for the Charities ( Marie Curie Hospice, Solihull and Macmillan Cancer Support).

The Dedication was very well attended and I believe, enjoyed by all. My thanks go to Rev.Lynda Lilley and Carol Todd for all they did. The children were, as normal, their excellent selves. The donkey is very popular with the children and my sincere thanks go to Gary & James Olsen for covering the cost. I was somewhat stuck for tentage and able assistance this time! The day was saved by Paul & Flick Blewitt, Debbie Starkey, Lorraine Horlor, Melvyn Sidwell, Roy Green and John Baker. The girls from The Manor Hotel were brilliant with the provision of mulled wine and hot chocolate! I was given all of the money they took. Such a kindness!! Still with The Manor Hotel:- The Special Lunch for the age 65+ residents was purely and simply excellent. They spared no effort to ensure that everyone had a lovely time. I thank them so much!! The Firebird Singers entertained after the meal and were a joy.

I am, as we speak, preparing for Funday Sunday on the 12th June on the Village Green. This ties in with the celebration weekend of The Queen's 90th Birthday. Do please put the date on your calendars and I will attempt to make it an enjoyable day for all.

You know-I take nothing for granted and I marvel at the level of support for what I do.

Thank you all Alan Lole.

Thank You Rotarians Thanks are due to members and friends of Meriden Rotary Club for organising a successful party for senior citizens on 16th January. A delicious meal and good , lively entertainment.

A lot of hard work done by so many; we never appreciate all the preparations before the event.

Thank you again, Bessie Hickson My 90th Birthday Thank you to all my friends who came to my Party. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

The amount raised in donations for the Brain Tumour Charity (instead of presents) was an amazing £393.75.

Thank you so much for your generosity it was very much appreciated.

My sincere thanks must go to Dawn, Frank, Rachel and Andrew for all the hard work they did to make the party so successful and to Doreen and Terry my friends from Reading. My thanks also for the lovely food Cheryl provided and to Lorena for the beautiful flowers, without their help, the party would not have been such a happy day.

Connie Curtis The Firebird Singers Would like to thank everyone who attended the senior’s lunch at the Manor Hotel in December for their kind donations, the total raised for the M.S Society, including raffle tickets sales, was £140.

It was a pleasure to entertain you all and we hope to see you again at some of our future concerts, On June 11th we will be performing “A Spoonful of Songs” A tribute to Disney at the Blue Coat School in Coventry.

For more information about the choir please contact: John Bentick 07716 721467 or Val Martin 01676 522963

Senior Citizens Christmas Party Every table and chair in the big dining room at the Manor Hotel was set up to welcome the senior citizens arriving for their Christmas dinner at noon on the 22nd of December. All were punctual and at 12.30 the kitchen doors were opened with military precision and a long line of handsome young men and pretty ladies came out with the first course. General Manager Lucy and Sales Manager Emma, had eyes everywhere so nothing could possibly be missed and one excellent course followed another until the pudding had been reached and demolished. Feeling very satisfied we all sat back and listened to carols from the popular Firebird Singers and endorsed Alan Lole's thank you to the Manor staff for a special Christmas to remember.

Margaret Houldsworth

"On behalf of the Royal British Legion, I would like to thank the people of Meriden for the wonderful amount of £1600 collected during last November's Poppy Appeal" John Moorhouse Shoe Box appeal I would like to thank everyone who donated money or filled shoe boxes for last year's appeal.

We sent 52 boxes from Meriden school, and 32 from St Laurence church.

Special thanks to Brian and Mary Williams who delivered them to Nuneaton .

The Nuneaton and district appeal sent an amazing total of 12550 boxes to Romania and Ukraine last winter.

We will be starting a new appeal in the autumn, please get in touch if you would like more information, or to help in any way .

Thank you Lucy Ball 01676 523502

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

Run for dog lovers by dog lovers

Harvest Hill Kennels

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

Tel: 01676 530792 www.broadlanevets.co.uk Our surgery at 255 Broad Lane CV5 7AQ is open until 7.30pm weeknights, Saturday 8.30am-5pm & Sundays 11am-3pm

Harvest Hill Cottage Harvest Hill Lane, Allesley Coventry CV5 9DE 02476 404608 or 07584294144 Family run business with over 40 years combined experience in ALL breeds.

Offering boarding, taxi service, training and advice. Viewings welcome by appointment, or simply give us a call for a friendly chat to discuss your best friend’s needs.

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

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

NO VAT On our prices

02476 312332 07977 631734 www.whiteknight-cleaning.co.uk

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 open to Members and Non-Members unless stated.

Wednesday 9th March “Stolen Lives: 50 WW1 Lives & Their Memorials” Andrew Hamilton.

Wednesday 13th April “The Last Naval Hero” – Earl Beatty & Jutland.

Roy Smart.

Wednesday 11th May “Keep the Home Fires Burning.”

PaulThompson.

Admission to meetings, including refreshments, £3.00 non-members; £2.00 members.

Annual membership £5.00.

For our latest news visit the website: www.berkswell-history.org or telephone 01676 535782 Meeting Fees: Members £2, Non-Members £3.

Refreshments included. Annual Membership £5.

I would like to thank the Reverend Lynda Lilley for conducting a lovely service for Arthur; also everyone who attended. Michael Deeley for making the arrangements easy for me and a very special thank you to Jacqui, without whose help and support throughout, I couldn't have got through this very sad time. The help that is now being offered to me is very much appreciated.

Gill

1 Sammons Way Banners Brook Coventry CV4 9TD

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

To book any of these events please call

NEW FOR 2016 Nature Babies Nature Babies runs weekly during term time on Monday mornings 10am till 12pm exclusively at our Parkridge Centre site in Solihull. Aimed at children aged between 0 and 4 years, but it's also a good chance for parents and guardians to grab a cup of tea and have a chat. Booking is recommended. Sessions are treated as a drop in and cost £3.50 per child Nature Tots Every Friday term time sessions run at 10:30-12 or 1:00-2:30 £3.50 per child, perfect for age 2-4 Fri, 25/03/2016 - 10:00am - Mon, 28/03/2016 - 4:00pm An Easter Egg Hunt for all the family across the Easter weekend: how many can you find? Pick up a hunt sheet from the Visitor Centre reception. Post your completed sheets into the post box at reception once you have finished the Easter Egg Hunt to be in with a chance of winning a great prize

CHILDRENS SCHOOL HOLIDAYS – SOMETHING EVERY DAY! Check out our website for Events Listings – we have a host of events for Adults too!

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 £3.50 for non WWT members Similar events take place at Brandon Marsh Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry Telephone: 02476 302 912

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

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

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!

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

New and Non Members Welcome Easter Monday 28th March Children’s disco, Easter Egg hunt and Easter bonnet parade 4.00pm – 8.0pm

Saturday 2nd April 12 hour Charity Snooker Marathon, sign up and be part of a great cause Saturday 21st May

7.00pm till late Rod Stewart Tribute night With Tony Julian £5 per ticket.

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.

All work guaranteed Fully insured State pensioners discount Minimum one hour

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

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

Got a job - Large or small - but not sure who to call?

Call the Job Squad!!

01676 532833 01926 803 803 jobs@thejobsquad.co.uk

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

Email: hayleystanley1@hotmail.co.uk nday 11th D

Bennetts Road North Corley Coventry CV7 8BG

01676 540178 Opening hours Mon-Sat 9.00- 5.00pm Sun 10.00 – 4.00pm Hanging baskets made to order.

Many of our bedding, herbaceous and perennial plants are home grown

WE ARE BIGGER THAN YOU THINK

Tel: 07904 239365 : From Richard Lloyd Chairman

Heart of England High Speed Railway Action Group (www.hhag.org.uk)

The impact of HS2 is increasing, with a plan to move the Household Waste site close to Meriden village. This won't be included in the Bill now before the Parliamentary Select Committee, but is to be progressed through the Planning process. It will add to the 10000 people in the Borough blighted by the construction of HS2.

Any improvements are hard to get, because as one Transport Secretary said "This is not some Constable country". Local representatives appeared before the HS2 Select Committee in January. With the Government trying to push things through, 10 petitions from Balsall and Berkswell were compressed into less than 2 hours - and they didn't start to be heard until 9 p.m.

The main issues don't go away Construction traffic: campaigners want to shift the trucks onto the line itself, not through Balsall Common (though the troubles are insignificant compared with another village threatened with a wagon every 16 seconds for 3 years).

Noise: the 225 mph trains will radiate a noise pulse every 2 minutes from the viaducts and embankments, unless we get proper enclosure of the trains. But HS2 Ltd fears that will spoil the view for the passengers.

Ecology: various "green bridges" and open viaducts have been removed from the scheme, and unless we get that reversed, the line will be a Berlin Wall for wildlife.

Archaeology: it's proposed to investigate sites that are already known, but there's nothing to check for the unknown. When the ground is dug away, unless proper surveys have been done, any trace of earlier times will be lost forever.

Footpaths: the line cuts through multiple routes, but the paths could be preserved with minor diversions and a few more expensive bridges and subways.

Rural landscape: trees will grow - eventually - but who knows whether the construction scar will ever return to agriculture, and what the loss will mean for the landscape, the environment, and life in the so-called Meriden Gap? Roads: residents want Diddington Lane stooped up rather than diverted to create a new rat-run.

We get the standard response from HS2 Ltd: the details will be sorted out later; there are procedures for everything; and Solihull Council will approve all the details, so we needn't trouble our silly little heads. Most of the mitigation we seek would have a tiny cost, as a proportion of the whole scheme, but every beneficial change is opposed.

The Speaker of the House of Commons said ". . . that the body charged with leading the project seemingly has no genuine interest in the individuals and the communities that it will affect – indeed is already affecting – coupled with the lack of compassion is, in my judgement, deplorable. People matter, communities matter." Meanwhile, the Chairman of HS2 Ltd writes "the company is committed to working in a fair, respectful and transparent way with the people who are affected".

New problems have emerged. Firstly, HS2 Ltd hasn't moved an inch to accommodate the planned "Garden City", and will cream-off the planning-gain from the site. Secondly, the change to local government financing means Solihull Council will have to stand the loss on Business Rates and Council Tax during the construction period.

It'll be March or April before the HS2 Select Committee comes down on one side or the other. Or neither. Five years ago, the HS2 Bill was meant to get Royal Assent before last year's election, so construction would now be imminent. Because there's so much wrong with the project, we've got 2 years respite. But if the worst happens, the geography of our area will change out of all recognition.

A child asked his father, "How were people born?" So his father said, "Adam and Eve made babies, then their babies became adults and made babies, and so on." The child then went to his mother, asked her the same question and she told him, "We were monkeys then we evolved to become like we are now." The child ran back to his father and said, "You lied to me!" His father replied, "No, your mom was talking about her side of the family."

MERIDEN

Fredanita

AGUAFLAME UK

Flower & Gift Boutique

Boiler servicing and repairs Boiler replacements New radiators and valves All plumbing work carried out Fully qualified in Natural gas and LPG • Under floor heating • New Bathrooms

Sarah Mcguigan Proprietor and florist

• • • • •

01676 523 192 home

We will be open on Mother’s Day Sunday 6th March

Treat your Mum to a bouquet of our beautiful flowers.

Free local delivery

Call in and see our range of renovated shabby chic furniture Commissions undertaken

07970 119142 mobile email : aguaflameuk@gmail.com Terry Griffiths

The Green, Meriden, Coventry CV7 7LN Tel: 01676 523 050 Mob:07803 941931 Email :sarahcolver@hotmail.co.uk

by Julie Hyde 1. Lightly draw the hare in pencil.

2. Ears. Mix different strength puddles of:• Yellowy Brown (weak) • Brown (one weak and one stronger) • Blue + Red (purple, one weak and strong) • Blue + Brown (strong dark grey) Wet one half of the ear with clean water by adding small dashes of water in the direction of the fur. Use a medium brush and clean water so that its glossy wet but only in these patches. Then add touches of the colours into and next to the water, letting them run a little. Use the weaker colours in the lighter areas and towards the outside and the other colours into the shadowy areas. Leave some white patches. LET IT DRY. Repeat on the next part. LET IT DRY. 3. Face. Repeat this process on the face but make the dashes smaller and shorter then dot in some of the colours leaving some white areas. Keep the paler colours to the light areas and the darker to the shadowy bits. Leave the nose and eyes dry.

LET IT DRY. 4. Nose. Add a little water to the top of the nose and add:• Blue + Red (purple - weak) While this is still damp to the nostrils add a little:• Blue + Brown (strong dark grey) Use this colour to form the mouth.

To the shady areas around the nose and mouth add:• Blue + Red (purple - weak)

5. Body Repeat this process of wetting patches on the neck. Wet in the direction on the fur making the dashes of water slightly longer and thinner on the body and adding colour and leaving some white patches. LET IT DRY. 6. Eye, part 1. When it’s all dry add the iris to the eye with a little:• Yellowy Brown (weak) And to the centre add a little:• Blue (weak) LET IT DRY. 7. Eye part 2. Add the pupil outside definition to the eye on to dry paper with a little:• Blue + Brown (strong dark grey) Make sure that you leave the pale blue highlight in the eye.

8. Whiskers. Using a thin brush, flick out long whiskers from the nose area and shorter dashes over the body using:• Blue + Brown (strong dark grey) 9. Spatter on all the colours uses around the bottom edge by either knocking your brush against your finger or flicking the end of the brush. (cover the face with paper before you start)

For more information on classes at Centre of England Arts contact Julie on 01676 523357 or see the website www.CoEA.co.uk Created by Julie Hyde

Email:jph300@hotmail.com

Copyright © 2015

The Packhorse bridge water and rail side wander Walk distance: 3¾ miles approx.

Walk time: 2 to 2½ hours approx.

This route can be done as two individual shorter walks or one larger loop, both start at the Marsh Lane Local nature reserve area where car parking is available. Please note that this walk takes you both on and off road and so please take extra care when crossing roads and ensure you wear appropriate footwear particularly during wetter periods. Not all the paths that the walk will take you on are surfaced, so please be aware of uneven or slippery conditions when out walking.

From Marsh Lane local nature reserve area (1) follow the old line of Marsh Lane, in an easterly direction away from Hampton-in-Arden before crossing Packhorse Bridge which is thought to date back to the 15th Century. To your left you will see the line of the London to Birmingham railway line crossing the river which stops in the village.

Continue on following the line of Marsh Lane to its junction with Windmill Farm Drive (2). From here follow the public footpath across the fields before linking back onto the main access drive to the West Midlands Golf Club and Lakes (3).

Turning right, join and follow the drive and then the connecting footpath around the lake back to your starting point at Marsh Lane (1). At this point you have the choice to end your walk or continue on to the second part of the walk.

If continuing on, take the footpath signed to Hampton-in Arden which begins from the junction of Marsh Lane (1). Crossing the boardwalk follow the footpath in a south westerly direction across the fields towards the village of Hampton-in-Arden.

Crossing Bellemere Road (4) continue on the footpath before turning right and heading north to join Marsh Lane to the side of the Beeches (5).

From here dog-leg across Marsh Lane and join Fentham Road. Continue along Fentham Road until you reach the junction with the footpath on your right. Turning right follow this footpath across the railway (6). Hampton railway station is to your left.

Turning right again immediately after the bridge follow the footpath as it runs adjacent to the railway line before crossing back beneath the railway to join Marsh Lane (7).

From here continue on along Marsh The number 82 bus Coventry to Solihull leaves Meriden Lane to your start point at Marsh Lane Green at 33 minutes past the hour and takes 5 minutes local nature reserve area (1). to get to Hampton by the church. On return the bus leaves Hampton at 30 minutes past the hour. There are no buses on Sundays.

About Rights of Way In Solihull: Solihull has a rich and diverse network of public footpaths which can be enjoyed throughout the year. All of the footpaths will be signed along their length by green and yellow waymark discs and many will have stiles or kissing gates to aid access. Solihull Council work hard to maintain the network of rights of way and have made significant improvements to many routes; however if you do experience any difficulty using a footpath, please contact us at rightsofway@solihull.gov.uk or visit http://www.solihull.gov.uk/Resident/Leisureparks/fitness/walking for further information.

West Midland Golf club and lakes

Heart of England Cricket Club training in the winter nets

The Junior section at Meriden Archery club, held a Charity fun shoot to raise funds for Birmingham Children’s hospital

The Santa Fun Run raised over £4,000 for Rotary charities

A team from Meriden based Pertemps managed

Solutions raised over £7,000 by taking on the National Three peaks challenge in October 2015.

They presented their cheque to members of the Cancer Research UK committee

The Christmas lunch at the Manor Hotel

was enjoyed by everyone

Beavers’ prize winning Christmas tree

Beavers map making and Scouts learning to light fires

Beavers making model planes and Scouts toasting marshmallows

Scouts shooting competition with cork guns

1st Meriden Scout Group – News from the Green Hut Beaver Scouts (Boys & Girls 6 to 8 years old) Beavers had a very busy last term, preparing for Christmas and working on our Christmas tree entry for St Laurence Church. It is pleasing to say that all our efforts payed off, by winning best tree entry.

During last term we also completed our Navigator Badge part 1 where we were able to create a map of Meriden, navigate around local points of interest and learn how we use a compass. This term we have been completing our Air Navigator Badge where we have learned about different types of aircraft and had a very special visitor to talk about what it's like to fly a plane. We have also made our favourite plane out of recycled materials and participated in a group presentation on what we have learned about our favourite plane.

Next term will lead us into Easter with some great craft activities and games.

Beavers Scouts see its 30th birthday this year and we have some very exciting Meriden Group and District events to celebrate this special birthday and information will follow when we have final details.

Please note that the Beaver Scout section is currently full but a waiting list is being opened for young boys and girls wishing to join.

Cub Scouts (Boys & Girls 8 to 10 ½ years old) The Cubs finished 2015 with a flourish and completed all the necessary tasks for their Adventure Challenge Badge, which included building their own army style assault course in the headquarters which was very enjoyable and imaginative on the Cubs part. We also created our annual entry for the Christmas Tree competition at St Laurence’s Church, as well as attending the Remembrance Sunday Service in the village.

2016 has seen the Cubs starting to work towards their Skills Challenge badge, which sees them learning many of the traditional and original scouting skills such as the use of knots, map reading, navigation, orienteering, food preparation, household skills and sewing. They will also be learning emergency first aid skills and perform more cooking tasks. Several of the older cubs will also be working towards their Chief Scouts Silver Award before they move up to Scouts at Easter.

2016 also commemorates the 100 year anniversary of the Cub Scouts and we are busy preparing all of the exciting activities that will be happening at the Warwickshire County Cub 100 Camp in June at the Heart of England Centre.

Scouts (Boys & Girls 10 ½ to 14 years old) Once again we’ve tried to keep our programme packed full of a wide range of activities since our success at the Bald Eagle event back in October. We’ve been fire lighting, had a group bonfire party, cooked pizza in boxes, been on night hikes, made cork guns and started planning for a March expedition.

Fire lighting in October showed that things are getting better. Last time we did this the number of fires lit was a dismal Nil. Sad Face! This time, however, working in pairs and with marshmallows to toast as an incentive, all fires were lit, many with no intervention from us. Smiley face!

Our Group Bonfire night this year was a little more special than usual with our first three Chief Scout Gold Awards presented. Well done Peter, Dan and Phoebe. The event went off with silly games to begin with followed by a making a guy competition. Guys were then suitably burnt on the bonfire to the accompaniment of burgers and campfire songs.

Cooking pizza in a box proved a novel challenge. Toppings varied and some were really quite yummy. Definitely a programme to do again.

The start of the year saw us making some creative cork guns for a night of shooting competition, great fun was had by all.

Planning of an expedition has commenced with some of the older scouts with a view to them back packing in March.

Planning has also started for our yearly Patrol Leader and assistant Patrol Leader Camp, our North Wales walking weekend and a return to the Strategy Camp For more details 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?”

Explorer Scouts is the Scout section for young people from the age of 14 to 18, it is open to both young men and young women. A new Explorer Scout section has recently been opened here in Meriden, it meets on Monday evenings at the Meriden Scout Hut. There is an exciting programme for the young people that can lead to both the Duke of Edinburgh and Queens Scout Awards. If you would like further details please do contact us.

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

‘Music Night with a touch of the Irish’

Friday 18th March Vivo At present we are planning our Music Night Heart of England Social Club with a touch of Irish at the Heart of England Social Club on Friday 18th March.

Vivo the very popular live music band will be performing with an Irish element – penny whistle and fiddle etc. We’re so pleased to book them so close to St Patrick’s Night.

On Saturday and Sunday April 16th and 17th we are planning to collect inside the Tesco store at Cannon Park Coventry, we would be very grateful for volunteers to stand and collect for 2 ½ hours with a committee member.

In June we will be having a bric a brac stall at the fun day on the Green, If you have any bric a brac or books etc that we could sell please let us know.

We are also very indebted to some members of staff at Pertemps for their wonderful contribution of £6,896. Three mountains in 24 hours – what stamina! Please see their separate article below and photos in the centre pages

ADAM’S TREE SURGERY LTD OF DORRIDGE

ME SC HO OR OL

Please Telephone for tickets and information 01676 522160 * 01676 522855 * 01676 522702 01676 523165

TH E

Three Peaks Challenge 'A team from Meriden- based Pertemps Managed Solutions pushed themselves to the very limit by taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge in October 2015.

This challenge involved scaling the highest mountains in each of Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours and is not one for the faint hearted.

The challenge started in Scotland at Ben Nevis, which at, 1,344 metres, or 4,409 ft is the tallest of the three.

From there the expedition drove south into the Lake District where they climbed Scafell Pike (978 m, 3,209 ft).

The final of the three was the Welsh mountain, Snowdon, standing at no less than 1,085 m, 3,560 ft.

The group set off in the very early hours of 1st October and was made up of Teresa Bennett, Lisa Duncan, Abigail Farnham, Andy Long and Simon Julier with their support drivers Carey Munn and Simon Benford-Blows. The main aim was to raise as much money as possible for Cancer Research UK and through the very generous donations made by friends, family colleagues and customers an amazing total just shy of £7,000 pounds was achieved.'

Jennifer Faulkner

F.I.D.T.A BA.Hons

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

Fellowship Teaching Degree

Tel: 02476 467271

Dip A.B.R.S.M

www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk

Principal Sandra Clarke

Beginners Adult Tap Classes

We are delighted to have played our part in the Meriden Tree of Thought, for the first time, by installing and removing the tree

For Free quotations Do please call 01564 898463

Adult tap Class at the Orme School, this is especially for beginners Monday evenings at our Meriden Venue 7.15 – 8.00pm Any age, any shape, 2 left feet everyone will be very welcome You just need a big smile and a good sense of humour!!!

Meriden library 01676 522717 Monday Thursday Saturday

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

What’s on this spring at Meriden Library?

ICT Offer Do you want to learn how to use computers but don’t know where to start?

Come along and see our upgraded ICT Facilities at Meriden Library.

Sign up for I.T courses for beginners. (Charges apply) Please ask staff for further details.

Every library member is entitled to:• Two hours free internet access for library members (you will need your library card) • Access to computers until 15 minutes before the library closes If you are not yet a library member, joining the library is free, quick and easy. You just need proof of name and address (for example a utility bill or driving licence) Ebooks at the library Digital books are available free of charge with your library card and can be downloaded 24/7.

• eBooks are available for a period of 3 weeks free of charge • you can download 3 eBooks at one time • don’t worry about overdue fees and charges, as eBooks are automatically returned to the library at the end of the loan period To borrow eBooks you will need a library membership card and your PIN number: • if you hold a library membership card but don’t know your PIN number, please contact us.

• if you don’t have a library membership card, join at Meriden Library Our eBooks service is compatible with most eReaders, tablets, PCs and Macs. Due to a restriction imposed by Amazon, eBooks will not work with the Amazon Kindle but will work with the Amazon Kindle Fire.

Regular Events Story time for the under-fives – come along for stories and rhymes.

Every Monday during term time: 2.45pm – 3.15pm.

Everyone welcome.

Reading Café – Come and meet other readers for a chat about books over a coffee! Mondays: 18 April, 16 May, 10.30-11.30am.

Neighbourhood Surgeries We continue to host the local neighbourhood surgeries at the library each month. If you have any problems, come along and see the Library Manager. Tel: 01676 532590, Email: amandajones@solihull.gov.uk speak to your local representative. See our notice board for dates and times.

Readers Circle If you are looking for something different to read, why not come along to a Readers' Circle meeting for inspiration?

We are a mixed group of people who have very different tastes in reading, but we have a love of books in common and enjoy listening to what other people have read and enjoyed (or not as the case may be!) We seldom read the same title, instead may read books by the same author or a genre or maybe a subject and select either a novel or a factual account. Something for everyone? We always enjoy the discussions, if not always the books themselves! We welcome newcomers and returning past members.

The programme for the next three months is as follows: March 9th Crime and mystery stories written in the 1920s and the 1930s. Authors will include Dorothy L Sayers, Margery Allingham, Raymond Chandler and many more. For some it will be the case of re-reading favourite authors from the past – for others, someone to try for the first time.

April 13th Travellers’ Tales. Maybe a well-known explorer, or maybe someone who has ridden across Europe on their bike or perhaps hitch hiked around the world. There are many alternatives.

May 11th To mark the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London we will be reading about the plague and the fire and anything else that might have happened around the same time.

If any of this appeals , please give Margaret Houldsworth a ring on 01676 523603 to find out further information and the venue

Balsall Common Writers

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AS PAPERBACK OR ON KINDLE Writing a novel or short story and *Need help! *Advice re publishing! *Marketing!

If so, our monthly Thursday evening Group may be for you.

See our website

www.balsallcommonwriters.org.uk contact Anne Santos info@balsallwriters.org.uk

With Easter holidays just around the corner, I thought you might like me to share a recipe for hot cross buns. I loved baking with my grandma, and intend to get my little grand daughter involved as soon as I can with baking. Confidence with making your own food from scratch, and not relying on readymade is something we need to re-introduce to the next generation. We are learning more every day that the additives and hidden ingredients inside processed food is frighteningly bad for us. I love to know what goes in my food!

Although there is evidence that the ancient Egyptians offered a cake similar to the goddess of the moon, and the Greeks and Romans also made a type of round yeast cake to offer to the goddess of light, the first definite record of hot cross buns comes from a London street cry: "Good Friday comes this month, the old woman runs. With one or two a penny hot cross buns", which appeared in Poor Robin's Almanack for 1733. There is a tradition that suggests hanging one of your buns in the kitchen will not only protect you from fires, but also ensure all your baked goods will turn out perfectly all year. I am definitely going to try that!

For the bun: 350g Strong white bread flour 100g strong wholemeal bread flour 50g caster sugar 1 tsp salt 2 tsp ground mixed spice ½ tsp freshly ground nutmeg 1x 7g sachet easy- blend/easy bake dried yeast 50g unsalted butter, cubed 125g mixed dried fruit 200ml tepid milk 2 medium free range eggs

For the cross: 4 tblsp strong white bread flour 2 tblsp cold water Try adding a little food colouring to the dough for a funky twist- mine were pink!

For the glaze: 4 tblsp milk 2 tblsp caster sugar

Method Mix together the dried ingredients- flours, spices, yeast. Add the diced butter and rub in with your fingers, to a fine breadcrumb consistency. Stir in the dried fruit.

Beat the eggs and tepid milk together, and pour into a well in the mixture. Stir, using your hand, bringing more and more flour into the sticky dough in the middle. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead well for ten minutes.

Alternatively, if you have a mixer, stir thoroughly with your dough hook, and knead on slowest setting for four minutes.

The dough should be sticky and elastic, but not too wet. It certainly shouldn't be dry though. Add a little more flour if it is too wet to handle.

Place the dough in a bowl and cover with a damp tea towel and leave in a warm spot to rise (it should double) in an hour.

Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface, punching it a little to deflate it. Cut into 12 pieces and roll each one into a round ball.

Place them well apart on a baking tray. And pop the tray into a carrier bag, but don't let the plastic touch the buns. Leave them a further 45 mins and they will double in size again.

To make the cross, mix up the flour with the water, to make a paste thick enough to pipe (at this point I added a little red food colouring to make my crosses pink). Put the mixture into the corner of a sandwich bag, or a ziplock bag, making it into a make shift piping bag. Snip a little of the corner off, and take your buns out, and pipe a cross on each one.

Bake at 200C/400F/gas 6 for 15 mins, until golden brown.

Meanwhile, boil the milk and sugar together for one minute, and brush over each bun as soon as you take them from the oven. Cool on a wire rack and congratulate yourself on a bun well done!

Jane West Tel: 07715 861067 Psychic Medium and Crystal Vibrational Therapist in Meriden 1-2-1 face-to-face readings, group parties (up to 6 people), email readings Email: jane_1_2_1@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: Jane – Medium and Crystal Vibrational Therapist

How to keep your amaryllis after the flowers have died so it blooms next year

Many of us have enjoyed the magnificent flowers of the amaryllis.

Most people treat their amaryllis bulbs as "one-and-done" flowers. In truth, amaryllis bulbs get better with time. The bulbs get bigger, producing more flower stems. Here are some steps for taking care of amaryllis year-round.

Enjoy amaryllis for the maximum time possible by placing it in a location with diffused light and cool indoor temperatures in the 60degree range. Keep it barely moist. When you water, be careful not to wet the portion of the bulb that sticks above the soil. If you have a large bulb, you may get two or three flowering stalks that bloom over a period of several weeks.

After the flowers fade, worry not. Just cut the flower stem off near the neck of the bulb. Be careful not to injure the leaves or any emerging flower stalks. The leaves are needed to replenish the bulb so it can bloom again next year. Water it enough to keep the soil moist, and feed it with every 7-14 days. Keep your amaryllis in the sunniest spot you can find in your house. More sun will mean bigger blooms later.

Once the outside temperatures stay above 50 degrees at night, you're all clear to bring your amaryllis into the garden. Amaryllises love sun, so place it in a sunny spot. Be sure to keep it well fed and watered to help it produce more leaves. This is when your bulb is storing up energy to produce more flowers, and healthier bulbs mean more flower stems and more blooms per stem. Make sure you bring your amaryllis back indoors in late summer before the first frost.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone again this year at our 92nd show on Sunday, 14th August 2016 starting at 9am. Attractions this year include Cyril the Squirrel and there are others which will thrill and entertain you throughout the day. We are still emphasising activities for the children and are pleased to let you know that Circus Whiz will be with us all day to entertain children of all ages (no clowns involved). We are only at the beginning of our planning and we think the show will be exciting and interesting for everyone. If we could guarantee last year’s glorious weather that would be a massive bonus!

For information about Horticulture, Livestock, Poultry and Horse Show classes please visit our website and contact the respective secretary who will be able to answer your questions. Schedules should appear in the usual locations within the next six to eight weeks but if there is something you need to know now please contact us: Pat Miller, patriciaUK1@gmail.com or telephone 01217 13 20 24/07794 622 824.

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

M.J. Mowing martin@mjmowing.co.uk

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

Spring has sprung and you’re no doubt keen to get in the garden, wash the car and dust away any cobwebs that have taken hold over the winter months. But in your eagerness to make the most of the longer days, and hopefully the nicer weather, we don’t want you to fall foul of crime. That’s because just like you, opportunist criminals are also looking forward to spring!

The behaviour of opportunist thieves is much more predictable than the British weather. They know that you’ll be leaving doors unlocked as you work in the garden, car windows will be left ajar and tools and other gardening equipment could also be up for grabs.

In recent years we’ve seen an increase in theft of items such as lawnmowers from garages and sheds that have been left unlocked.

I understand that you probably don’t intentionally leave a garage, car or home unlocked and it can be a mistake to make. That’s why we want you to kick start the summer by getting you into the habit of locking out crime.

At the same time officers are targeting those individuals who look to profit from your misfortune.

So if you are a ‘green-fingered’ resident please don’t leave your house vulnerable to burglars as you are distracted by planting and pruning just feet away. When you are next out in the garden please make sure that you lock your home and reduce the opportunity for burglars to sneak in.

At the end of a long day in the garden we also appreciate it may be tempting to leave equipment such as spades and ladders out. While these items are relatively inexpensive they could be used to gain access to your property.

Please lock away all gardening tools and keep ladders securely locked. Make sure you lock gates to your garden and check that fencing around the perimeter is secure.

If a day in the garden isn’t your cup of tea and you’d prefer to head off and make the most of the weather then don’t forget to secure your home. As you leave take a look over your shoulder and look at your home from the perspective of a thief…are windows shut, doors locked and every step taken to make it as secure as possible?

The same rule applies to your car. Remove all valuables from display, even loose change you keep in the dashboard or the coat you’ve thrown on the back seat in case it rains. Cars are so advanced nowadays they are often let down by their owners whose crime prevention can leave a little to be desired.

The above may seem really simple to most and I’d like to thank you for your continued support. But if you were reading this and it reminded you of the times you have forgotten the basics then we need your help to make our community safer.

Don’t forget if you see anyone acting suspiciously then please call us on 101. Dial 999 if a crime is in progress.

I won’t take up anymore of your time as I’m sure you’re all eager to make the most of this better weather I’ve spoken about (fingers crossed it has arrived by now). Enjoy the spring!

Mick (Sergeant Michael Lloyd)

SAVE THE CHILDREN WARWICKSHIRE WALKS Sunday April 24th Start Lapworth Village Hall from 10.00 am to 3.00pm 3 lengths: 3, 5 or 10 mile walks The walk includes Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House There will be a nature trail for children Teas and cakes will be available in the hall Cost:£5 per adult, free for children all proceeds to the Save the Children Phone 01676 533513

David Deakin Plastering Services Interior plastering and coving work.

Insurance work welcome.

Free Estimates, reliable, friendly, clean service.

Tel: 01676 521389 Mobile: 07767 237860 "The best way to garden is to put on a widebrimmed straw hat and some old clothes. And with a hoe in one hand and a cold drink in the other, tell somebody else where to dig."

January 2016 saw the launch of a local charitable trust The Meriden Sports and Recreation Trust The Trust will look after the funds needed to support the Sports Park and other sports and recreational facilities, projects and events in the Parish for people of every age group.

Its main source of funding will be the proceeds of the deal done many years ago by the Parish Council to sell off the ‘old’ Maxstoke Lane playing fields. These funds will be invested by the Trust to produce an income that will benefit present and future generations of Meriden residents. In addition, the Trust will seek funding for sports and recreation activities and facilities from lottery and other charitable sources.

The Trust will promote and support provision for amateur sports and other recreational and leisure activities and ensure that the facilities we already have are maintained and developed for the benefit of present and future generations of Meriden residents.

Meriden Sports Park has been very successful and a great benefit to Meriden’s children, young people and adults. It is essential that the Park continues to be properly maintained and that the financial resources continue to be available into the future to ensure it is maintained and kept up to date.

The Trustees have worked very closely with Meriden Parish Council to . set up the Trust and the Council have nominated Councillor Frances Lynch-Smith to the Board of Trustees. The other trustees are Paul Blewitt, Damian Cassidy, Howard Farrand, Tessa Roxburgh, Michael Rawson and Iain Roxburgh Iain Roxburgh chairs the Trust Board and previously led the steering group that produced Meriden’s Parish Plan.

At a small ceremony to launch the Trust in January, here are Iain Roxburgh and Mel Lee, the Chair of the Parish Council, together with trustees Damian Cassidy and Tessa Roxburgh, Parish Council Vice-chair Rosie Weaver, Parish Clerk Barbara Bland and Solihull MBC Councillor David Bell.

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

LAWN BOWLS AT THE HIGHWAY CLUB Membership open now to both Ladies and Gentlemen with one year free Bowls Section membership for people new to Bowls.

No obligation. Come and try it for a few weeks.

All you need to start is a flat pair of shoes and a smile!

All bowls etc and training will be provided. Not sure?

Bring a friend!

Where? Off Fletchamstead Highway/ Standard Avenue behind the Hyundai Car Showrooms. (CV4 9BY) Free Parking.

When? From mid-April Tuesday evenings from 6.00 pm is ‘Club Night’ – come and give it a try – you will be made very welcome.

For more information give Chris or Margaret a call on 02476 464399 / 07960744468 gitshamchris@aol.com

The Heart of England Cricket Club The start of the year has been a busy time for the new club and it's been great to get the bats out for the winter nets training sessions. We are looking forward to the pre-season friendlies and to the start of the season at the end of May. We have been running a competition to design the clubs new logo with the help of the children at the school and look forward to sharing our new logo with you in the next edition.

We are looking for new players aged 13 and over to join the club. Whether you play regularly, haven't played since your youth or would like to try a new sport we would love to hear from you. We have a number of teams of varying abilities playing on Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday.

The list of fixtures will be posted on the notice board at the Pavilion and we look forward to some great cricket and your support.

For further information please contact us: heartofenglandcc@gmail.com The free junior coaching sessions will start in May for children aged 5 and over - please look out for further details around the village.

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 following the 2015 Rugby World Cup

Contact Glen Southwell 07598 980546

Come along to a warm welcome with Candy at Meriden Village Hall Zumba Thursday evenings 6.00pm £4.00 per session

Pilates Thursday evenings 7.00pm £4.00 per session

ZUMBA A fun fitness & calorie burning class

PILATES style conditioning A slower paced class for all over body conditioning to improve muscle tone, strength, balance and flexibility Any queries please contact: Tel. 07828709650

YOUR LOCAL ARCHERY CLUB IN MERIDEN Tucked discreetly out of sight and only a stone’s throw from Meriden village, you’ll find Meriden Archery Club, a group of friendly and enthusiastic archers of all ages and abilities. Nestling amongst trees within the Packington Estate, are the Forest Grounds the shooting grounds of the Club, open to members every day of the year and available anytime of the day.

Meriden Archery Club has a very active and dedicated Junior Club, meeting every Saturday morning as a supervised group. It is made up of youngsters from 8-18 years of age, and the camaraderie is obvious. Each week, juniors take part in a variety of activities, including formal archery shooting rounds, Junior Postal League competitions and also simulated tournaments to help prepare any junior who chooses to compete. Fun is also an important part of Meriden Juniors – and with enthusiastic parents assisting, themed shoots are organised such as Valentine’s Day, Halloween (in the spooky woods!), Easter and Christmas with great success, all adding to the team spirit in the Club. On the more structured side, juniors are supported and encouraged to progress in their abilities with awards schemes in place. The majority of our juniors regularly attend each week, and already we have young archers who have achieved “Junior Bowman” status – a high accolade indeed.

When not in Meriden, the Juniors can be found at other organised events or venues, often shooting in tournaments putting Meriden firmly on the map with their increasing successes - most recently at the County of Warwickshire County Indoor Junior Championships.

But it’s not all about Meriden. Last September the Junior Club took the lead in holding a “fun charity shoot” in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity. A fantastic fun filled day shooting a range of novelty targets, finishing with a barbecue, raised (with matched funding) just shy of £2000 – a true credit to the Juniors and their wish to help others.

Please see centre pages for colour photo Meriden Archery Club has a main field set out for a range of distances to suit all shooting abilities. There is a floodlit paddock with an extended covered shooting area with permanent targets at distances up to 50 metres. Within the Clubhouse, there is a small area for indoor shooting and for those archers brave enough to face the challenges of the British weather, we have a Field Course in the western corner of our grounds.

If you are interested in finding out more, please come along and have a chat – we are an approachable bunch and it’s very rare to find no one in the Clubhouse! If you want to try your hand at archery, Meriden also hosts a number of Beginner Courses run by friendly qualified coaches. Each course is completed over a 6-week period and we currently have 5 courses scheduled for 2016.

More information can be found on our website www.meriden-archery.org.uk or if you can’t find it there, email info@meridenarchery.org.uk.

Alternatively, our Club Secretary, Philippa Lowe will be more than willing to help via philippa1964@gmail.com

Return to Tennis We are launching a brand new tennis programme at Meriden Sports Park suitable for the whole family – Any age, any level – GET INVOLVED! We will be running ‘pay as you play’ classes starting April 2016.

We will also be running • children’s classes (2-17 years of age), • Adult only classes • Family sessions where we encourage you to come along as the family to enjoy this great game!

Please keep an eye out on parish notice boards and website for specific details.

Ian Poole Matchpoint Sportsz

Meriden Archery Club, Birmingham Road, Meriden CV7 7JS

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.

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 next Parish Council meeting dates are: • 21 March 2016 - The Pavilion • 25 April 2016 - The Pavilion (Annual Parish Meeting) • 23 May 2016 - The Pavilion (Annual Parish Council Meeting (Elections & Committee Nominations)) Community Surgeries at Meriden Library 10am-12pm: • Monday 07 March 2016 • Monday 11 April 2016 • Monday 09 May 2016

Barbara Bland The Pavilion Meriden Sports Park Main Road Meriden CV7 7SP

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

Your Parish Councillors are:

Melanie Lee (Chair)

Rosie Weaver (Vice Chair)

Bob Kipling

Paul Lee

Mandy Haque

Do you want a say in how our community looks?

THEN GET INVOLVED! A Neighbourhood Plan for Meriden The Localism Act enables local communities to develop their own Neighbourhood Plans, which the local authority must then consider when determining planning applications. Although a Neighbourhood Plan cannot stop development it is a very powerful tool in shaping the way in which where we live develop in the future. Some areas in Solihull are underway as we are in Meriden. We have already held some workshops at Heart of England School and in community groups in Meriden.

Our next piece of work is writing and delivering a questionnaire to all households in the late Spring that can be completed online or taken to various collection points in Meriden.

The Neighbourhood Planning group meet every month and if you want to join us we will be really pleased to see you. Contact the Chair at Rosie@meridenparishcouncil.org.uk

Frances Lynch-Smith

Jon Barber

Matthew Nunn

Police Beat Surgeries The next police beat surgeries will be held on Monday 4 April and Monday 9 May 2016 at Meriden Library between 11am and 12pm.

Come along to speak with your local officers.

Return to Tennis We are launching a brand new tennis programme at Meriden Sports Park suitable for the whole family – any age, any level – GET INVOLVED! We will be running ‘pay as you play’ classes starting April 2016. We will be running children’s classes (2-17 years of age), adult only classes and family sessions where we encourage you to come along as the family to enjoy this great game!

Please keep an eye out on parish notice boards and website for specific details.

Ian Poole Matchpoint Sportsz

Meriden First World War forthcoming events We continue to commemorate the centenary of the First World War with two major events in April, an evening with Doreen Agutter, our local historian, and The Great War Society living history camp over the St George’s Day weekend.

Meriden in the Great War An evening with Doreen Agutter New date!

Wednesday 6 April 2016 7.30pm Village Hall, Main Road, Meriden

Tickets cost £5* includes cheese and wine or tea, coffee and biscuits all tickets sold for the postponed talk on 23 September 2015 will be honoured

St George’s Day 23 April 2016 The Queen’s Head Old Road, Meriden FREE ADMISSION * The Great War Society are coming to Meriden over St George’s Day weekend 23 and 24 April 2016. They provide an opportunity for practical research into the uniforms, weaponry, equipment, training, medical facilities and everyday tasks of our soldiers during the Great War.

There will be ongoing public access during the course of the weekend to the living-history camp, with kit and firepower demonstrations, focussing on the uniform and equipment of the British Infantry and the service rifle at 11:30am and 2:30pm on Saturday and 12:00pm and 2:30pm on Sunday.

On sale at Fredanita Village Green Meriden *proceeds to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

*Donations will be accepted on behalf of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

[

J B Decorators 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 )

All meat and fish of human grade and sourced within the UK. TOTALLY GRAIN FREE – NO FILLERS

HIGH DENSITY FOOD – USE LESS FOR EACH FEED ** EDEN ORIGINAL: 80% Chicken, Salmon, Herring, Duck and Egg ** EDEN CATCH OF THE DAY: 80% Fish 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

DOGGY DAY CARE Days, weekends or longer ………

In our home – stress free, non-kennel environment.

Only limited numbers of friendly dogs at any one time. Highly experienced show exhibitor/ trainer and dog breeder.

Excellent affordable rates.

TEL: 01676 522466 (Meriden) 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 Home baking and preserves, meat, plants and seasonal vegetables, crafts and homemade cards Mothering Sunday gifts and Easter goodies

Hampers can be A free cup of tea ordered and or coffee delivered countrywide. with this Contact voucher 01676 534148 For more details call June Smitten on 01676 523007

Our user friendly new internet directory site for the older generation helps you effortlessly find businesses, products, discounts and services online

Shop securely and without irritating distractions!

Give us s try for offers, advice and information.

Avoid the hustle and bustle of the high street do your shopping safely on line with us.

www.JustforSeniors.co.uk

Ian O'Donnell the Director of Real Point Design and chairman of the FSB for Warwickshire and Coventry, outside Buckingham Palace after receiving his MBE from HRH the Prince of Wales.

Congratulations From the Meriden Mag

unit

News from the Heart of England School

Keeping CALM The beginning of this new term saw the introduction of our new Behaviour Policy at Heart of England.

Called ‘CALM’ the policy is based around four key components that provide a framework for excellent behaviour for learning: Complete your work, arrive fully equipped, Listen and follow instructions and Make the correct choice. Together they form ‘The 4 Classroom Essentials’ which will allow teachers to teach and students to learn without unnecessary distractions.

Assistant Principal, Steve Hawkes who is responsible for welfare and conduct said, “The new policy is designed to support our core values and underpins our vision of creating exceptional futures for all our students.”

Non-negotiables Visual resources including logos and charts showing the core elements of CALM including ‘Non-negotiables’ support the policy.

These are designed for easy reference and to help students to make the right choices for the best outcomes.

With the Non-negotiables, rewards and sanctions escalate to support the students to conduct themselves in the Heart of England ‘one way by design.’

“It is all focussed on teaching students to make the correct choice; first time every time,” said Mr Hawkes. CALM is closely linked to other policies relating to safeguarding and anti-bullying and is supported and promoted by the pastoral support team.

Positive Rewards To promote our high expectations of good behaviour, students are rewarded with House Points for exceptional and sustained effort.

These are linked to work, the school values and commitment. Along with that we are actively encouraging personal and public positive praise and positive report cards.

“We demand the highest standards of behaviour to allow every student to be visible and thrive in a calm learning environment,” concluded Mr Hawkes.

Cern Visit A group of students are on their way to CERN as part of a trip organised by the Science department.

The Sixth Form Physics students will be visiting CERN in Geneva, Switzerland where the Higgs Boson particle was discovered using the Large Hadron Collider and the world wide web was invented by Sir Tim Berniers-Lee. “Although not a requirement for the A Level, the trip will seek to enhance the learning and experience of Sixth Form Physics,” said Jerry Crawford, Science teacher. “There are links with the ‘Fields, Particles and Frontiers’ part of the curriculum.”

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. They use the world’s largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter – the fundamental particles.

Heart of England students are being given the opportunity to become immersed in an environment at the forefront of engineering, technology and physics, where questions such as ‘What is the universe made of?’ and ‘How did it start?’ may be answered.

The three day trip will include a visit to a Science Museum and a CERN tour as well as a sight-seeing tour and visit to a local restaurant.

“It’s a whistle-stop tour but what an opportunity for our students,” said Mr Crawford.

Former student Anna Nightingale has been successful in applying to the University of Cambridge.

Anna’s commitment and drive have helped her fulfil a dream to study at Cambridge. She is off to Sidney Sussex College to read English in September 2016.

Whilst at Heart of England Anna studied English Literature, French and Geography A Levels and AS Level History.

“I'm absolutely elated to have realised a very ambitious dream,” said Anna. Talking about her love of English she remarked, “The English department at Heart of England really is outstanding and my love of the subject stems from the enthusiasm I gathered there, particularly from the teachers."

As for the future, Anna is open to opportunities which come along. “I am quite drawn to publishing - largely because of the Man Booker Prize shadowing scheme and staff/student book club at the school,” she said.

Congratulations to Anna for her achievement. It just goes to show that if you set a goal and work hard, shaping your future is a reality.

Past student Matthew Brookes has been awarded an IET Diamond Jubilee Scholarship from BT which will help him during his studies at Imperial College London.

Matthew left Heart of England Sixth Form in 2015 and is currently taking an integrated masters course in Computing for an MEng. The award he has received was based upon his A Level results from last summer and he found out about the award from one of our Science teachers.

The award is given to 150 students with the aim of encouraging the brightest and best students to study IET accredited courses.

“The scholarship will be helpful for me because I can purchase additional resources to help me read around my subject,” said Matthew, “and through the IET collaboration platform I can speak to engineers about real world applications. It’ll be a useful

way of getting an internship too.”

The IET also runs events in local communities to encourage students to study STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects so Matthew hopes to be getting involved with these as part of the scholarship.

Adult Craft Exchange When: Friday mornings from 9am to 12 pm (term time.) You’re welcome to come for all or just stay a while.

Where: School room at the back of Beechwood Nursery, next to Meriden C of E Primary School, CV7 7LW. How much: £1 contribution to cover coffee and materials We meet every Friday during term time, to learn new crafts from each other and share skills, but don’t worry, no previous experience is required – just come and have a go. We’ll happily teach you what we can. So far we’ve tried needle felting, painting, crochet and paper craft, to name but a few! It’s open to everyone who would like to make a new friend and learn something new. Or if you already have a craft and just fancy some company whilst you do it, bring it along. If you’re new to the area or to the school community it’s a great way of getting to know people. We are baby and child friendly, with a limited number of toys and baby changing facilities.

Find us on Facebook “Adult Craft Exchange”.

Contact Marie 07921 719937 or Vanessa 07779 235248 Things we will be doing in 2016: *Crochet * knitting * Tunisian crochet* *Needle felting * Patchwork* *Nail and String pictures*

23rd April St George's Night Celebration at St Peter's Church Hall, Balsall Common with live music by top party band, VIVO! Music from 50's - 90's+.

Pie n’ Mash supper with dessert.

BYO drinks. Tickets £13.00.

Group tables available.

Limited spaces so reserve your tickets now by contacting Chris Price on 01676 532625, or email, c.price625@gmail.com

Lord and Lady Aylesford are opening their gardens for the National Gardens Scheme On Sunday May 15th From 2 pm to 5 pm Admission £5 Children Free Come and enjoy a wander round the beautiful gardens followed by a delicious tea with freshly baked cakes made by the WI

(Tea not included in Entrance price) Packington Hall Meriden CV7 7HE

New Year, New You Join the Leisure club before 28th Feb 2016 and receive your 3rd month FREE

Knowle Fun Run Sunday 15th May Entries are open for this year’s Knowle Fun Run. Hundreds of runners have already made their New Year's resolution to run in Solihull's biggest fundraising event of its kind.

Why not join them for this popular 5 mile Fun Run with great community atmosphere on traffic-free streets and help raise funds for Children’s Liver Disease Foundation, Lily Mae Foundation, and Solihull Bereavement Counselling Service and as usual we shall retain 30% for local causes Once again we aim to keep the changes to a minimum Year 4 runners must now choose between the MINI run or 1 or 2 laps Junior Fun Run The MINI runs will finish near where they begin enabling parents to collect their finishers whilst also ensuring their other children are ready on the start line

More details and entry online at www.KnowleFunRun.org.uk.

The warm and friendly atmosphere allows you to relax and unwind in wonderful surroundings with fantastic facilities including: • CV Suite /Free Weights Gym /Fitness Suite • 18m Indoor Heated Swimming Pool • Spa Bath, Sauna & Steam Room • An exciting new studio timetable with over 30 classes per week • 2 Floodlit Outdoor Tennis Courts hosting specialist tennis coaching

Open 6am – 11pm 7 days a week Call 01676 526107 Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer Fees applicable joining *Termson and conditions apply. Offer Marriott Forest of Arden,only Maxstoke Lane,March Meriden, 7HR2015 available andCV7 April MarriottLeisure.co.uk

Meriden Parish Council, supported by Solihull MBC Footpaths Officer has worked with Meriden Bloomers to achieve a makeover of the historic Copse & Bridleway, known as the old Whittell's Way and Fordrough. This historic copse and bridleway is to be transferred to Meriden Parish Council for conservation as a heritage site that connects to Heart of England Way and Millenium Way. This site will become a wildlife/nature woodland walk with the introduction of wild flowers, native hedge and wildlife habitat for the local community and visitors to enjoy.

Information boards will be introduced as the project nears completion. A new path has been opened up along the historic copse which runs at the back of strawberry fields and out towards the quarry. It can be accessed from the public open space at Strawberry Fields and is marked with a yellow topped way marker post.

Additionally Meriden Bloomers have been busy already this year in an effort to keep the momentum of our great success last year. Wyevale Garden Centre, Kenilworth Road, Balsall Common, has generously donated more than 900 bulbs which are being planted around the Parish at sites including Coronation Island, Sports Park, Strawberry Fields, Main Road and Birmingham Road; vegetable bulbs and seeds have also been donated to Meriden Bloomers Community Allotment Project, to start us off, with the ground being cleared and prepared for planting in the coming weeks. A huge thank you to Dean Bash, Deputy Manager of Wyevale, for his support and his volunteering to assist Meriden Bloomers with his technical know-how!

As always we are looking for anyone who would like to join us and contribute to improving our village by getting involved with either our Bloomers Group or the Community Allotment Project. You do not have to be green fingered; just have an interest as there is a lot to be done for all ages and abilities. Please contact us if you would like to know more or have any questions about our plans for this year on In 2014 Memorial Approach was a beautiful floral display honouring those who gave their lives during the First World meridenbloomers@yahoo.com War. The colourful roadside memorial depicted a red poppy on a yellow background to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the Great War in 1914.

This feature was created for Solihull Neighbourhoods in Bloom by Meriden Parish Council, Dovetail Group UK and Bloomer volunteers, and continues to be sponsored by generous donations from A&A Recycling Limited and Our very own community gardening club Taylor Wimpey Homes.

The planting created in 2014 was ‘seasonal’ and although it The first Saturday of each month at was vibrant and eye catching the planting was not hardy and therefore perished as the winter approached. So during 9.am in the Pavilion at Meriden spring 2015 the Bloomers, thanks to more generous Sports Park. sponsorship, planned a new raised bed, with a sustainable planting display of a leafed poppy with MERIDEN spelled out below. The intention was that the plants would create a carpet of colour, getting better each year creating a visual feast that everyone in the village could be proud of and enjoy.

However, the siting of the planter and the subsequent wet summer meant that the plants quickly suffered and the leaf fall from the overhanging trees sealed the fate of the hardy plants and they have also now perished. But do not dismay MEMBERS WANTED – EVERYONE WELCOME - we Bloomers are hardy perennials and we are planning to rebuild the raised bed and replant during 2016 - so watch this space! (or that space!)

Next time - the thought and planning behind “Coronation Gardening club enquiries – Island.”

Carole Webb of Meriden Bloomers Community Anyone wishing to join ‘Meriden Bloomers’ please Project contact us on meridenbloomers@yahoo.com

MERIDEN BLOOMERS GARDENING CLUB

Email: meridenbloomers@yahoo.com

Carole Webb Dip PSDG CertEd MCIHort CW HORTICULTURAL TRAINING

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

We have a new telephone system at Meriden surgery. This has been installed to come in line with the telephone system at the Balsall Common Surgery.

When dialling the surgery number you will be able to select from the following options 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Appointments Home Visits Prescriptions Secretary Results Enquiries

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome the new staff members Charlotte, Kerry and Dr Atkinson to the practice and wish Nurse Charlotte and Dr Wheelhouse all the best in their new careers.

Please remember if you are unable to keep you appointment please CANCEL IT ☺

Balsall Common Surgery also has a new fax number – 01676 292005 Just for fun !

A duck walks into a pharmacy to buy some lip balm, the assistant asks, "Will that be cash or credit card?"

The duck replies, "You can just put it on my bill."

Award Winning Baby Development Classes

Designed for babies from birth to 13 months 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

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

NHS Blood and Transplants The next sessions for blood donors will be on Thursday 14th April at The Heart of England Social Club 1.20 – 3.30pm and 4.20 – 7.45pm Appointments available by calling 03001232323

Coventry Breathe Easy For more information please ring Janet on 024 7646 0081 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, Eadon Hall, Central Hall, Methodist Church Warwick Lane, Coventry, CV1 2HA, except during the winter months when we meet for a coffee at Conroy’s

March 11th Louisa Stonehewer from Rehab – Anxiety and Breathlessness April 8th Debbie Parks – British Red Cross Association – Everyday First Aid May l3th Sandy Walmsley – Lead Respiratory Nurse – Bronchiectasis

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 STILL RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP!! We have moved to Millisons Wood Rockwell Sheet Sales Ltd Rockwell House

Tel: 01676 522224 Opening hours – Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat Morning 9am -12pm

Birmingham Road Millisons Wood, Coventry CV5 9AZ

Men and Women welcome Open late nights Monthly offers available Dual treatment room Gift vouchers available Friendly, welcoming environment

WWW.ROCKWELL- MERIDEN.CO.UK

blitz Beauty Salon Telephone 01676 521100

Over 65 special Tuesday 25% off any treatment Also complimentary tea & biscuits

All aspects of Beauty Therapy to include; Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Eye treatment, Facials, Caci facials and body treatments, microdermabrasion , massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology, Gel Nails Nails and Extensions, Body Wraps, Hot Stone Massage, Spray Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun bed, Vibration plate and Ultrasonic Liposuction Monday closed, Tuesday 10-5, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10-8, Saturday & Sunday 10-4

For more details or to go on our mailing list - Telephone 01676 521100 wwwblitzbeautycoventry.co.uk Join us on Facebook & Twitter

The Changing Face of Meriden Green. Part 1 As a child I was astonished to see, looking at old post cards, how the Green had changed even as [[[[[[[Kinwaldsey, William son of Gerard (possibly Geoffrey’s brother elsewhere called ‘ Gilmyn’), Richard Hill recently as before the Second World War. The post war scene was barren with the Cross on the edge the Mason, Nicolas Godyng and many others. I imagine them all crowding round listening, all of 700 years ago. of the main road encircled by a delapidated picket fence. At the other end of the Green was the Cyclists’ Memorial (1921). Coventrybound Midland ‘Red’ Buses used the service road in front of the village shop(s). The main road was Doreen Agutter. noisy with heavy commercial traffic that never ceased all night before the by-pass existed (1958). Even in 1910, a writer commented on the amount of traffic. The Green, once owned by the Earl of Aylesford, but now the parish council, is a Conservation area. Until money was found to replace the grass it was coarse and untidy with a badly maintained foot path running diagonally across it. Do look at the Pathe News clip showing the Green in 1943. Improvements were completed for the Coronation 10 years later with the Cross in its present position enclosed by new rails. Though there was a bus shelter on the pavement, a wooden bench by the Cyclists’ Memorial offered another seat while you waited for the bus or to use the public telephone that sometimes rang to alert villagers without a ’phone who had given out its number. Yes; I did!

If I turn back the pages of history, there was once no Green here at all. This part of the village was called ‘Heath End’ and what was to become our Green was created partly by a new turnpike section of road made in 1742 and secondly the result of Enclosure between 1785 and 1791 when a new route to Hampton was pegged out across the Heath. At the village end it joined up with Fillongley Lane. On the site of the Cyclists’ Memorial was a Pound for stray animals.

There were old buildings on its north- east side .For example looking left to right a bakery (still a shop), a barn that became a draper’s (now the Library), a blacksmith’s in front of which was an ancient tree with a divided trunk giving its name to ‘Elm Tree Farm’ (a small part of which remains today as shops) and an inn/ farm house/ butcher’s (Tuckey’s) once called The ‘Swan,’ demolished in 1972. Opposite, by the 1850s the owners of Darlaston Hall built the original Darlaston Row of 4 cottages to which were added 6 more of a different design by 1880. On the site of the Rectory and neighbouring detached houses, was a farm house opening as the Library and Post Office in 1952 where there was a splendid Monkey Puzzle tree in the garden and a building for which no evidence of original use has been found though I have my ideas. The end facing the road had been a chemist’s shop from at least 1890.

The vexed question of when and who moved the Cross onto the Green remains a mystery on which I have written before and shall do again in greater detail. What we can see from the A.T.Sidwell’s post cards of the Edwardian era is that the edge of the Green where the Cross stood was gradually eroded until as I have commented it was almost in the road and a cause for public concern by the late 1920s. Near this spot from 1828 if not before to about 1871 was a turnpike house with toll gates at the junction with the main Coventry- Birmingham Road and Fillongley Lane to stop entry without paying.

The Green in Edwardian Times

Doreen Agutter to be continued.

Don’t forget Doreen’s talk on “Meriden in the Great War” April 6th Village hall 7.30pm

PC Technical Services Tile Hill Lane Coventry

Home Computer Support, repairs & Problem Solving 1951 before the cross was moved

Telephone 024 7667 4952 07963 850001 Independent personal attention Internet & e-mail Troubleshooting & tuition

Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA A primer on the U.S. presidential campaign You don’t know what you’re missing, over there on the eastern side of the pond, where your general election campaigns last about 15 minutes and then everyone gets back to work. Over here, the carnival takes the better part of two years, and we’ve still got months to go. Here’s the low-down on the U.S. presidential candidates, according to me. Although I try not to be unduly swayed by mere facts, I do consult reputable sources when absolutely necessary. Just remember that you’re missing out on lots of fun as this race drags on and on.

THE DEMOCRATS: Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton, former secretary of state, former senator from New York, former first lady. Chance of winning the presidency: very good. Once the “inevitable” candidate (it was supposed to be her turn in 2008), she now has to struggle with Sanders, who points to her cozy relationship with Wall Street. Best résumé in the contest, but she’s so scoldy: our national mother-in-law.

Bernard “Bernie” Sanders, senator from Vermont, former U.S. representative, former mayor. Chance of winning the presidency: fair. This avowed “democratic socialist” eschews personal attacks but can’t help raising the spectre of serial womanizer Bill Clinton, and the fact that Goldman Sachs paid Hillary $600,000 in speaking fees in one year.

Martin Joseph O’Malley, former governor of Maryland, former mayor. Who? `m.

THE REPUBLICANS: Donald John “The Donald” Trump, business magnate and former television personality. Chance of winning the presidency: conceivable, unfortunately. For reasons that pass understanding, undereducated shlubs identify with this billionaire-of-thepeople, who’s now on his third trophy wife. He may actually be as ignorant as he seems. Small mind, “YUGE” ego. A bully; his nanny should have spanked him more.

Rafael Edward “Ted” Cruz, senator from Texas. Chance of winning the presidency: not zero, unfortunately. Lots of rightwing support, but he’s creepier than Nixon; even his colleagues can’t stand him; a self-styled “man of the people” who couldn’t remember taking a $750,000 loan from Goldman Sachs, his wife’s employer.

Marco Antonio Rubio, senator from Florida. Chance of winning the presidency: not unthinkable. (Does his mother know he’s running for the presidency?)

Benjamin Solomon “Ben” Carson, retired neurosurgeon. Chance of winning the presidency: nil. Nice guy; inspiring, upfrom-poverty bio, but so soft-spoken you can barely hear him; makes bizarre policy statements.

John Ellis “Jeb” Bush, former governor of Florida. Chance of winning the presidency: slim. This formerly “inevitable” candidate has faded to a mere footnote. Plenty of money in his war chest, but he’s hampered by that deer-in-the-headlights look and the memory of George W. Michael Dale “Mike” Huckabee, former governor of Arkansas, ordained Baptist minister, television host on Fox News.

Chance of winning the presidency: nil. Lots of support from the far right, but he comes off as a fatuous, self-righteous blowhard.

Cara Carleton “Carly” Fiorina, former CEO of Hewlett-Packard. Chance of winning the presidency: nil. Gained sympathy after Trump insulted her on TV. Her big-business résumé doesn’t help.

James “Chris” Christie, governor of New Jersey. Chance of winning the presidency: slim. But his figure’s not so slim, and he comes off as mean and boorish.

John Richard Kasich, governor of Ohio. Who? Randal Howard “Rand” Paul, senator from Kentucky, ophthalmologist. Chance of winning the presidency: nil. On the Libertarian spectrum.

Richard John “Rick” Santorum, former senator from Pennsylvania. Who?

James Stuart “Jim” Gilmore, former governor of Virginia. Who? THE OTHERS: Well, the Green Party has Jill Ellen Stein, a physician; and the Libertarian Party has Gary Earl Johnson, a former governor of New Mexico who now runs a company that sells THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) lozenges. Both ran in 2012. Neither has a snowball’s chance in hell.

And there you have it. My prediction? Hillary, by a neck.

Enjoy the presidential derby.

Reach Glenn Richter at grichter@recordjournal.com.

Steven Russell

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

A Coventry Way Association’s Annual Challenge April 3rd of this year will see the 19th promotion of the “A Coventry Way Association’s” annual 40 mile Challenge. Since the inaugural event back in 1997 there have been over 1200 walkers and runners complete the full circuit which encircles the City of Coventry.

Many more have tried and failed to complete and so then come back another year to try again. There are seven check points around the course all of them supplying food and drink to help the entrants on their way.

The furthest point on the route from Meriden is Brinklow which is just past the half way point. Prior to reaching here the entrants will pass through Kenilworth Common and golf course, Stoneleigh, Stareton, Bubbenhall, Ryton and Wolston. The second part of the route passes through Ansty, Barnacle, the outskirts of Bedworth and Corley Ash before finally reaching Meriden again to finish at the Queens Head public House.

Association members are now checking out the whole of the 40 mile route to ensure it is still in good and safe condition, and also well signed. Entries at this moment stand at just over 270. We don’t want any of them to get lost on the way.

The Association is again most grateful for all the considerable help and cooperation that Lawrence and Carolyn of the Queens Head have given over the years. Without them, this Challenge which has been a great vehicle for individuals to raise money for their favourite charities as well as the Association itself which also supports many charities, just could not take place.

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

Village Diary DATE

EVENT

VENUE

TIME

CONTACT

4th March 6th March 7th March 7th March 9th March 16th March 17th March 18th March 18th March

Women’s World Day of Prayer Mothering Sunday Community Surgery WI Readers Circle Big Picture Show St Patrick’s Day D Mcgrath CAMEO Vivo Cancer evening

Methodist Church St Laurence Church Sports Pavilion Village Hall Village Hall Touchwood, Solihull Sports Pavilion H of E Club

2.00pm 10.30 am 10.00am–12noon 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 10am-4pm 2.00pm

Rev Charlesworth 533737 Rev Lynda Lilley 522825 Barbara Bland 522474 Flick Blewitt 523229 Margaret 523603 Chris Copper 522645

21st March 21st March 21-23rd March 23rd March 25th March 27th March 27th March 27th March Week beg March 28th 3rd April 4th April 4th April

Flower Club Parish Council Quiet reflection for Holy week

Village Hall Sports Pavilion St Laurence Church

7.30pm 7.30pm

Mo Reynolds 01676 521 457 Barbara Bland 522474 Rev Lynda Lilley 522825

Meriden School break up Good Friday Walk of Witness Easter day Services Methodist Easter Service British Summer Time starts Green bin collection starts

Meet at School St Laurence Church Balsall Common

10.30am 9am &10.30am 10.30 am

Rev Lynda Lilley 522825 Rev Lynda Lilley 522825 Rev Charlesworth 533737

6th April 6th April 11th April 12th April 13th April 14th April 18th April 18th April 22nd April 23rdApril 23/24th April 24th April 25th April 2nd May 5th May 9th May 9th May 9th May 11th May 15th May 15th May 16th May 16th May 21st May 22nd May 23rd May 26th May 27th May

Coventry Way Challenge WI Police Beat Surgery

Ellen 01676 522534 Mary Warr 522160

0121 704 6000

Village Hall Library

7.30pm 11.00 -12 noon

Flick Blewitt 523229 Sgt Lloyd 101

Supper Club Meriden in the Great War Community Surgery School Summer Term begins Readers Circle Blood donations

Methodist Church Village Hall Library

7 pm 7.30pm 10.00am–12noon

Mareen Gabbitas 522148 Tickets from Fredanita 01676 522717

H of E Club

7.30pm 1.30- 3.30pm 4.30- 7.30pm

Margaret 523603 03001 232323

Reading Café Flower Club CAMEO Big Picture Show Great War Society

Library Village Hall Lunch visit Village Hall Queen’s Head

Save the Children Walk Annual Parish meeting Meriden Mag deadline Police Commissioner Election Police Beat Surgery Community Surgery WI Readers Circle Packington Hall open gardens Knowle Fun Run Reading Cafe Flower Club Big Picture Show Cyclists’ memorial service Parish Council Meeting Meriden School break up CAMEO

Lapworth Village Hall Sports Pavilion

From 10 am 7.30pm

Village Hall Library Library Village Hall

7.00 am -10 pm 11.00 -12 noon 10.00am-12 noon 7.30pm 7.30pm 2-5pm

Packington

7.30pm 7.30pm

01676 522717 Mo Reynolds 01676 521 457 Ellen 01676 522534 Chris Copper 522645 Barbara Bland 522474 Margaret Walls 533513 Barbara Bland 522474 522963/ 522453 Sgt Hurst 101 01676 522717 Flick Blewitt 523229 Margaret 523603

Library Village Hall Village Hall Meriden Green Sports Pavilion

7.30 pm 7.30 pm 11.00am 7.30pm

www.KnowleFunRun.org.uk 01676 52717 Mo Reynolds 01676 521 457 Chris Copper 522645 David Hearn 02476 670048 Barbara Bland 522474

Sports Pavilion

2.00pm

Ellen 01676 522534

Out and About this spring Herbert Art Gallery Coventry Wildlife Photographer of the Year Until Sunday 10 April 2016 Monday - Saturday: 10.00am - 4.00pm Sunday: 12.00pm - 4.00pm admission Free Dive deep into the oceans; fly amongst the tree tops and journey across sand dunes discovering the variety of life this world has to offer. Join us on a truly wild journey around the globe, to see this unique insight into the natural world. This world-renowned exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, showcases 100 awe-inspiring images, featuring fascinating animal behaviour and breath-taking wild

Cadbury Easter Egg Trails

landscapes.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the most prestigious photography event of its kind, providing a global platform that showcases the natural world’s most astonishing and challenging sights for over 50 years.

Launching in 1965 and attracting 361 entries, today the competition

Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House National Trust properties Friday 25th to Monday 28th March11am to 4pm

receives over 42,000 entries from 96 countries highlighting its enduring appeal. This year’s 100 award-winning images will embark on an international tour that allows them to be seen by millions of people across six continents.

Ryton Pools Country Park CV8 3BG

The 100 acres of Ryton Pools Country Park are just waiting to be explored. The many different habitats are home to a wide range of birds and other wildlife. The excellent surfaced paths enable easy walking around the site, and provide access to adjoining ancient woodland, Ryton Wood (by agreement with the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust).

Come and have a picnic in the peace and quiet of the Park, or enjoy refreshments at the Visitor Centre. We have a walks and events programme offering activities throughout the year to suit all age groups and interests. Pick up a leaflet from the Visitor Centre.

Free admission £3 car park Country Café

Play areas Minature railway Fishing lakes

And many other activities

Join in with the family Easter trail with chocolate egg and outdoor games and take home crafts at Baddesley and chocolate egg take home crafts from Packwood House. £3 per hunt

Dates for hoisting the flag on Meriden Green

Refuse Collection Information The green bins will be emptied again during the week beginning March 28th 2016 .

Bickenhill Public Waste Disposal Site Opening Hours Winter 1st Nov –31st March Monday-Friday (except Tues) 9.30am – 4.00pm Tuesday 9.30am – 5.30pm Saturday and Sunday 8.30am - 4.00pm 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 Last admission 15 minutes before closing time

10th March Birthday of the Earl of Wessex

21st April Birthday of her Majesty the Queen 23rd April St George’s Day (St George’s Flag) 5th May Europe Day 22nd May Cyclists Memorial Service

Sunday March 27th British Summer time begins Don’t forget to put your clocks one hour forward

Don’t forget the bluebell trail in Millison’s Wood from the end of April into May Overheard on the bus!

“My memory is gone Mildred, so I changed my password to “Incorrect.” That way when I log in with the wrong password, the computer will tell me… “Your password is incorrect.”

Reminder! Deadline date for the summer 2016 issue: Monday May 2nd Out by 1stJune.

Val Martin 01676 522963 val.simon@btinternet.com Margaret Argyle 01676 522453 margarete.argyle@gmail.com Deliveries: Doug Bacon and Paul Lee Proof Reader: Claire Rose

Useful village contact numbers Meriden Primary School Meriden Library Meriden Surgery Lloyds Chemist St. Laurence Church Meriden Methodist Church Meriden Christian Fellowship

Parish Council Sports co-ordinator Solihull M B C Solihull District Councillors

Member of Parliament Meriden Scout Group Post Office Rural Police Sector Village Hall Bookings

Mrs L. Winkler

Rev Lynda Lilley Rev. Andrew Charlesworth

Pstr. Kevin & Lyn Hunt Barbara Bland (Mondays & Thursdays only) Paul Jayes Ken Allsopp David Bell Tony Dicicco Caroline Spelman Gerry Russell Sue Harper Sgt Mick Lloyd Valerie Martin

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

0121 704 6000 01676 522301 01676 535211 07780438290 0121 711 7029 01676 522666 01676 522230 101 01676 522963

Mag advertising rates Eighth page £10 Quarter page £20 Half page £40 Small ads (sale or wanted) £5.00 Charity & Community events FREE Views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the co-editors.

We are unable to print anonymous letters or articles although we will withhold name and address on request