MeridenMag Spring 2017

Meriden Mag

MERIDEN COVER SPRING 2017.qxp_Layout 1 13/02/2017 11:50 Page 1

Spring 2017

See inside for

The Licensing of The Reverend Lynda Lilley, St Laurence Church New Housing Developments Update • Cyclist's Annual Memorial Service Village News Events and Photos

Ofsted Inspection We had our inspection in October 2016 and I am delighted to say that school was judged as ‘good’ in all areas.

The full report can be found on the school website: www.meridenceprimaryschool.co.uk ‘The headteacher and senior leaders provide strong leadership. The governing body provides effective support and challenge to the school’ ‘The school ethos of ‘Friends, Faith and Lifelong Learning’ permeates everything the school does.’

‘Pupils are safe and happy in school.’

‘Pupils are proud to be part of this vibrant school community’

Strong Reading Culture We have a strong focus on Reading in school and there are lots of new initiatives going on this term.

The teaching and support staff have recently received input with regard to strengthening our teaching of whole class reading. This has included the exploration of exciting stimuli, improving questioning around reading and organising lesson time in increasingly effective ways. Every child will read with a teacher, either within a small group or on a 1:1 basis (depending on the child’s reading level and need), at least every other week from this term onwards. Each child from Years 2 – 6 is being given a ‘swag bag book’ in which we are encouraging the children to collect language that they could utilise in their own writing. Children may choose to ‘swag’ creative character’s names, amazing alliteration examples or imaginative settings.

The children will be participating in a sponsored READATHON during the first week of February. The winning school receives a visit from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler themselves!

After the great success of our family reading mornings for Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1, parents we will be recommencing these after February half term.

All of these initiatives sit within our positive reading culture and the varying approaches we have for the teaching of reading.

Our lovely Christingle Service was held at St Laurence’s Church on 7th December. Thank you to all who came along and gave to the Children’s Society Charity.

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without the Nativity and we saw three wonderful ones here at Meriden Primary.

Nursery performed theirs at St Laurence Church; our Reception class put on a fantastic show and our KS1 classes put on a great production of the ‘Magical Christmas Jigsaw’.

All Nativity performances were enjoyed by the children and audiences and they reminded us of the true meaning of Christmas.

Science Afternoon Friday 20th January was a very exciting day at Meriden School, as we welcomed in parents and other members of the community for our Science Open Afternoon!

Each classroom represented a different element of science, such as Forces, Electricity and States of Matter, and hosted a variety of experiments and investigations for the children to engage with. The children and their grown-ups were able to move freely around the school to take part in as many different exciting experiments as possible- from lemon batteries, to planting seeds, to creating UV-proof shelters, to making rain in a jar! It was a fantastic afternoon of learning!

Young Voices In January, our choir took part in the amazing Young Voices 2017 concert at the Genting Arena, Birmingham.

Having practised since September, the children were charged up and ready to belt out some top tunes!

Five Guys Named Moe kick-started the concert to the delight of the children’s adoring parents. With great hits like Queen’s ‘Keep Yourself Alive’ and Brian Adam’s ‘Summer of 69’ the whole arena rocked!

There were some ‘interesting’ air guitar dance moves on offer from the teachers and expert moves from the children. Everyone had a truly spectacular time. The Urban Strides street dance group performed some remarkable moves on stage with the help of the very professional Young Voices Band.

If you ever needed inspiration to get involved in music, then this was definitely it!

Young Voices 2018 – get ready!

Year 6 visited Coventry to learn about life during World War II and the infamous Coventry Blitz. The children visited the Transport Museum to learn about the evolution of cars and motorbikes before undertaking an ‘evacuee experience’ where they were dressed up and role played being evacuate to the countryside! Next stop was the Herbert Art Gallery where pupils took part in some active learning about how fire crews and ARP wardens alerted the Coventry citizens to the dangers of an air raid. Our final stop was a short tour of the Coventry Cathedral. The messages of peace and reconciliation were very sobering and helped the children understand a little more about the importance of love and forgiveness. Certainly a day to remember!

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

Behold I make all things new! Revelation 21 These words from the last book of the Bible came to my mind a few weeks ago as I was preparing for something new. I have great delight in announcing that I am able to stay with you in Meriden. I have been appointed as Priest-in-Charge at St Laurence. In many respects it is a continuum, a continuation of my work and life for, with and amongst you, but it is also the start of something new. We tend to be quite good at using the New Year as a mark of making all things new – especially with our New Year Resolutions! How many of you have kept yours? How many of you can even remember what resolutions you made?

We have a great gift from God that He can, and does, make all things new! Each new day is an opportunity for new things, a chance to leave the old behind us and travel to the new.

I, for one, am really happy to have the permanency of my appointment. For two years I have lived and served as Christ’s representative amongst you. I love the joys and the sorrows that we as individuals, as families and as groups have shared. I look forward to spending many years here in a place that immediately felt like home.

As part of the appointment process – yes I had to undergo the dreaded selection interview – I was required to give a homily (a mini sermon) on the set Bible reading of the day. You might think that this wouldn’t be too arduous a task for a Priest who preaches almost every Sunday, but for me, and for us, there was so much riding on it. As I turned and looked at the Bible reading I was amazed and touched by the goodness and grace of God. The passage set throughout the whole Anglican church for that day was from the prophet Isaiah. It began with some very familiar words for me. “Do not be afraid for I have redeemed you, I have called you by your name you are mine.” The reason that my heart skipped a beat was that these were the very words I heard from God on the eve of my priesting. “Do not be afraid, I have redeemed you.” All things past have passed the new is about to begin.

As with anywhere there is a lot of history here in Meriden – with some history of division – but that has past. It is time to move on from what has past, not to what is to come (though that is important) but to the present. God doesn’t want us to hold onto the things that hold us back rather He wants us to know that we are precious to Him, that we matter and that we are important.

The present is like a ‘present’, a gift. Just like a game of ‘pass the parcel’ when the music stops we can quickly pass the parcel on or we can open it up. Similarly, we can pass on life or we can live in the moment that has been gifted to us. Sometimes we feel that our present is hopeless or worthless but this is only fleeting; it is for a time but that time will pass.

God gave his only Son, Jesus Christ, as a present to us. Jesus’ life wasn’t all rosy, He had his ups and downs, His joys and His sorrows just as we have. At Easter we remember His greatest trial. His arrest, His trial, His sentence, His death. He was crucified that we might be forgiven, He was crucified that we might have life in all abundance. His body was placed in the tomb sealed with a stone … and left. Many of us can identify with this in some way when we feel abandoned, when we feel alone or when we feel trapped in. But that was not the end. Death is not the end. ‘On the third day He rose again’ - he left that dark place of isolation – it had past and something new was happening.

This Easter time I urge you to remember the gift that God gave the world. It is my hope and prayer that you won’t pass over the chance of knowing Jesus but rather that you will willingly, expectantly and excitedly grasp the present in your hands and tear off the old thus allowing the new.

As God said to Isaiah, “Behold I make all things new” - and as the words of the hymn go – ‘starting with you and starting from today’.

May God bless and keep you from your past and into your today. With blessings, Rev Lynda Lilley

Enquiries for Baptisms and Weddings please contact Lynda on 01676 522825 for further details The church will be open on Sunday afternoons from 12noon to 4pm from April 23rd to October 22nd.

Everyone is welcome to visit this beautiful historic church.

Friends of Meriden Churchyard.

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

Dates for your diary In addition to our usual 10:30am Sunday services we have some special services for Lent and Easter.

Ash Wednesday 1st March 7pm.

Mothering Sunday 26th March 10:30am.

Holy Week. Monday 10th April – Wednesday 12th April 7pm each evening.

A short reflective service as we ‘walk with Jesus’ in the week leading up to His death and resurrection.

Easter Sunday 16th April 9am A service to bring in the Light followed by a fish breakfast.

10:30am A celebration of Easter Remembering Meriden’s War dead: Tuesday 30th May 8:45am at church, 9am at the War Memorial. A vigil to remember the life of Second Lieutenant Kenneth Waters on the 100th anniversary of his death in WWI. SundayMay 21st Cyclists’ Service on the Green

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

Behold I make all things new! Revelation 21 These words from the last book of the Bible came to my mind a few weeks ago as I was preparing for something new. I have great delight in announcing that I am able to stay with you in Meriden. I have been appointed as Priest-in-Charge at St Laurence. In many respects it is a continuum, a continuation of my work and life for, with and amongst you, but it is also the start of something new. We tend to be quite good at using the New Year as a mark of making all things new – especially with our New Year Resolutions! How many of you have kept yours? How many of you can even remember what resolutions you made?

We have a great gift from God that He can, and does, make all things new! Each new day is an opportunity for new things, a chance to leave the old behind us and travel to the new.

I, for one, am really happy to have the permanency of my appointment. For two years I have lived and served as Christ’s representative amongst you. I love the joys and the sorrows that we as individuals, as families and as groups have shared. I look forward to spending many years here in a place that immediately felt like home.

As part of the appointment process – yes I had to undergo the dreaded selection interview – I was required to give a homily (a mini sermon) on the set Bible reading of the day. You might think that this wouldn’t be too arduous a task for a Priest who preaches almost every Sunday, but for me, and for us, there was so much riding on it. As I turned and looked at the Bible reading I was amazed and touched by the goodness and grace of God. The passage set throughout the whole Anglican church for that day was from the prophet Isaiah. It began with some very familiar words for me. “Do not be afraid for I have redeemed you, I have called you by your name you are mine.” The reason that my heart skipped a beat was that these were the very words I heard from God on the eve of my priesting. “Do not be afraid, I have redeemed you.” All things past have passed the new is about to begin.

As with anywhere there is a lot of history here in Meriden – with some history of division – but that has past. It is time to move on from what has past, not to what is to come (though that is important) but to the present. God doesn’t want us to hold onto the things that hold us back rather He wants us to know that we are precious to Him, that we matter and that we are important.

The present is like a ‘present’, a gift. Just like a game of ‘pass the parcel’ when the music stops we can quickly pass the parcel on or we can open it up. Similarly, we can pass on life or we can live in the moment that has been gifted to us. Sometimes we feel that our present is hopeless or worthless but this is only fleeting; it is for a time but that time will pass.

God gave his only Son, Jesus Christ, as a present to us. Jesus’ life wasn’t all rosy, He had his ups and downs, His joys and His sorrows just as we have. At Easter we remember His greatest trial. His arrest, His trial, His sentence, His death. He was crucified that we might be forgiven, He was crucified that we might have life in all abundance. His body was placed in the tomb sealed with a stone … and left. Many of us can identify with this in some way when we feel abandoned, when we feel alone or when we feel trapped in. But that was not the end. Death is not the end. ‘On the third day He rose again’ - he left that dark place of isolation – it had past and something new was happening.

This Easter time I urge you to remember the gift that God gave the world. It is my hope and prayer that you won’t pass over the chance of knowing Jesus but rather that you will willingly, expectantly and excitedly grasp the present in your hands and tear off the old thus allowing the new.

As God said to Isaiah, “Behold I make all things new” - and as the words of the hymn go – ‘starting with you and starting from today’.

May God bless and keep you from your past and into your today. With blessings, Rev Lynda Lilley

Enquiries for Baptisms and Weddings please contact Lynda on 01676 522825 for further details The church will be open on Sunday afternoons from 12noon to 4pm from April 23rd to October 22nd.

Everyone is welcome to visit this beautiful historic church.

Friends of Meriden Churchyard.

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

Dates for your diary In addition to our usual 10:30am Sunday services we have some special services for Lent and Easter.

Ash Wednesday 1st March 7pm.

Mothering Sunday 26th March 10:30am.

Holy Week. Monday 10th April – Wednesday 12th April 7pm each evening.

A short reflective service as we ‘walk with Jesus’ in the week leading up to His death and resurrection.

Easter Sunday 16th April 9am A service to bring in the Light followed by a fish breakfast.

10:30am A celebration of Easter Remembering Meriden’s War dead: Tuesday 30th May 8:45am at church, 9am at the War Memorial. A vigil to remember the life of Second Lieutenant Kenneth Waters on the 100th anniversary of his death in WWI. SundayMay 21st Cyclists’ Service on the Green

“A Street Cat Named Bob” (12A) Saturday 8th April 2017at 7.30p.m

At Meriden Village Hall 7.30pm SPRING PROGRAMME “Bridge of Spies” (12A)

A newly released feel-good movie starring Luke Treadway (Clash of the Titans) telling the moving and life-affirming true story of the unlikely friendship between a young homeless busker, James Bowen and a stray ginger cat who changed his life.

*** Saturday 18th March 2017 at 7.30p.m

“Lion” (PG)

An old school spy thriller starring Tom Hanks as an American lawyer who finds himself recruited to defend an arrested Soviet spy and thrust into a near impossible CIA task of effecting an exchange with a Soviet captured US spy plane pilot. A Spielberg directed film nominated for seven Academy awards.

Saturday 20th May 2017 at 7.30p.m We are delighted to have secured the early release date for this much acclaimed film. It tells the story of a five-year-old Indian boy who gets lost on the streets of Calcutta, thousands of miles from home. He survives many challenges before being adopted by a couple in Australia; 25years later, he sets out to find his lost family. A’ Must See ‘tipped to be Film of the Year.

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 Quote from the Coventry Telegraph: “Revealed: Best Indian restaurant in the West Midlands isn’t in Birmingham!”

“Want the best curry in the West Midlands? Then head for Meriden, according to official Tripadvisor statistics. Meriden Spice Indian restaurant situated in Old Road Meriden has been crowned the region’s best-rated restaurant for Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi food on the popular review web site.”

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

Minister Rev Jane Braund Tel :01676 533737 Please phone to arrange marriages, baptisms and funerals Keep a look out for Services: Sunday 10:30am.

In Meriden

This is the second article that I have written for the Meriden Mag and I cannot believe how quickly time flies. Christmas has well and truly come and gone and we are now well into the New Year. Shortly, if we haven’t already, we will start to see the signs of Spring on the way – the evenings getting lighter, the signs of new life emerging from the ground, and in the hedgerows and trees, birds nesting, eggs hatching... It is an exciting time of year with every day seeming to bring some change, and as someone who is new to the area I am looking forward to seeing the changes that the various seasons bring.

Not that change is something that we are always very keen on. Throughout our lives we go through different seasons.

Sometimes we can find it easy to embrace the changes a new season brings, welcoming it gladly, but at other times it can be something we fear, dreading what the change might bring. Changes aren’t confined to individuals. Changes occur in communities, big or small, and everyone can see that there are some big changes happening in the world right now, not just in our nation but in many nations of the world, not least the US. How we deal with change depends on many things, but it is reassuring to read in the Bible, that Jesus never changes – He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Heb 13: 8). When everything appears to be shaking and changing around us, all the things that perhaps were at one time our security no longer seem so secure, yet in the middle of it all, Jesus is a sure foundation, a rock that doesn’t move. It does not mean that our life is suddenly made easy with no problems, but our security is no longer found in things that change from day to day, rather it is in him and his love.

Over the next few weeks we will be moving into the season of Lent. If you would like to hear more about Jesus then why not come and join with one of the three congregations that meet in Meriden. We often meet to share and pray together and you will find a warm welcome wherever you go.

Looking forward to meeting you, with love, Jane Meriden Methodist Church Diary Dates

Annual Cyclist’s Memorial Service Sunday 21st May 11.00am Meriden Green

3rd March Women’s World Day of Prayer 2.00pm 17th March Supper Club 13th April Maundy Thursday Agape Meal at 7.00pm 16th April Easter Sunday Service 10.30am.

The Methodist Church Hall Is available for hire Please contact Alan Gabbitas on

01676 522148 Meetings are held on the first Monday of the month 7.30pm at Meriden Village Hall. Contact Flick Blewitt 01676 523229

In December we held our Christmas party and enjoyed a buffet supper and then tried our hands at a light-hearted seasonal quiz. A very pleasant evening with time to socialise.

At our meeting in January we discussed the six resolutions that have been put forward for consideration at the A.G.M. in June. Only one resolution will be the subject of that meeting, after all the W.I. members throughout the country have submitted their individual votes. In due course we shall discover the final choice that has been made.

Our speaker in February was Terry Mower, telling us about his life as a fast responder. He is a member of a team called FAS+AID, supported by the West Midlands Ambulance Service – they are often the first to respond to an emergency call and are able to give treatment in the vital first few minutes of an incident.

Future Programme Monday 6th March Children in conflict – Syria – Margaret Watts Monday 3rd April ‘Life on board Britannia’ – Anthony Noble Monday 8th May ‘Keep the Home Fires Burning – Paul Thompson *Change of date due to Bank Holiday* Visitors are always welcome.

Elizabeth Spencer

Queens Head Old Road Meriden 01676 522256

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

Monday March 6th 13th 20th 27th Monday April

3rd 10th 17th 24th

Keith Brett David Seeley Stacey Crowe Guy Surtees Steve Best Micky Dean (tbc) Rita Perriera Dominic Niven

1st Demi Hobbs 8th 2 Left Feet 15th Guy Young 22nd Simon Ore ALLAN 29thSMITH NathanSLATING Farrell

Monday May

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

PA ELECTRICS th

(17

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

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 • Every 3rd Thursday – ‘Open Mike Night’ • Every Friday evening – Cash Bingo, Meat Raffle, ‘Open the Box’ and ‘Play Your Cards Right’ • 18th March charity evening ‘A Night with the Landlord’ raising funds for Aquarius, adults only tickets £8 • Easter Sunday 16th April free children’s Easter party, Easter Egg hunt, lots of prizes Heart of England Social Club, Berkswell Road, Meriden 01676 522430

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 As the race to elect the first regional mayor of the new West Midlands Combined Authority heats up, the focus turns to what skills the successful candidate will bring to this role and what powers the new mayor will have to shape the future of the our region.

Whichever way you may vote, I believe that for local residents in Meriden the stakes couldn’t be higher. As a small, rural community we need to ensure that the candidate we choose to represent us will prioritise our needs equally with those of the surrounding and more densely populated urban conurbation.

The role of the new West Midlands Mayor will see the successful candidate assume responsibility for modernising the regions existing transport infrastructure and improving access to work by developing a strategy to attract investment, grow our regional business centres and create new jobs and opportunities for further training and education. Further to this, from 2020 the Mayor will also inherit the role of Police and Crime Commissioner.

With just three months to go until residents take the polls, candidates have begun to lay out their plans for the future of our region and on some key issues their views could not be any more dissimilar. One of these concerns the future of Birmingham Airport - with half of the candidates backing the construction of a second runway.

As many of you will be aware, I have been clear that I do not believe a second runway at Birmingham is appropriate, but I have stressed the significance of the airport as a major employer and my determination to see them thrive. Similarly, candidates are fiercely debating their plans to cut congestion and improve our public transport in our area- an issue which is frequently raised with me by residents in Meriden village.

For that reason, I would encourage local residents to use this election as an opportunity to secure the future of our region and urge everyone to look closely at what each candidate offers to bring to this new and exciting role before they go to the polls on May 4th.

Caroline Spelman

To contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery please contact Katy Steele On 0121 711 7029 or email caroline@carolinespelman.com

A family run business, for the ultimate ladies hair, barbering and beauty / experience. . experience Spring offers : New Lash Lift! Includes lash tint -£25 receive FREE brow shape Book your leg and bikini wax and receive underarm FREE !

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

Exciting new range EVO; Pharmaceutical grade Innovative, professional hair products that are sulphate, paraben, dea, tea and propylene glycol free .Products that give professional results while respecting the environment !

Senilac new gel polish range giving great results lasts up to 3 weeks !

Meriden Fish and Chips The Green, Meriden

Gift vouchers available

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

Chartered Financial Planners and Employee Benefit Consultants

You can try the rest!

But we’re the best!

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

Would you like to learn more about what it’s like to live with dementia?

Could you turn that understanding into action? Every action counts no matter how small.

Anyone of any age can be a Dementia Friend by attending a Free Dementia Awareness Session. The informal and enjoyable sessions last for around 45 minutes and can take place in local venues or business organisations.

Caroline Bates and Geraldine Davies are Dementia Champions trained as volunteers by the Alzheimer’s Society to deliver Awareness Sessions to groups and organisations.

If you are interested in attending or being part of a future session, please contact either Caroline or Geraldine and we can arrange local sessions for you. From a small group of friends and family to a company or business, all can be accommodated, so please get in touch.

Help us spread the message by raising awareness of people living with dementia and how we can all make a positive difference!

Caroline Bates

Geraldine Davies

07734 383509

07798 703007

Caroline Bates, local solicitor Specialising in Wills, Power of Attorney, Trusts, Deceased’s Estates.

Court of protection and inheritance Tax/ Asset Protection planning.

With 20 years’ experience in the field at big law firms I am now able to concentrate on the local area providing a more bespoke service in a friendly and approachable manner.

Please contact me on 01788 833344 or 07734 383509 and be assured of • • • •

Quality advise Value for money Free home visits Evening/weekend appointments

I am a consultant solicitor with Davidson Mahon Solicitors a niche practise specialising in Private Client service.

Email: caroline@davidsonmahon.co.uk www.davidsonmahon.co.uk

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

Why are trees very forgiving?

Because in the autumn they ”let it go!”

And in the spring they “turn over a new leaf!”

The Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park, Solihull Follow us on Facebook WKWTParkridge Nature Babies Every Monday morning 10am till 12pm, dropin format and exclusively at our Parkridge Centre site in Solihull. Wonderful gentle nature themed sensory play, also a good chance to meet other parents and make new friends.

Nature Tots Every Friday 10:30-12 or 1:30-3:00, absolutely perfect for active 2-4 year olds.

After School Club New for 2017 every month at Parkridge February Half Term 20

th

Set in the middle of Brueton Park, on the edge of Solihull Town Centre, 5.5 acres of tranquil beauty offering nature themed activities for babies and children, a monthly Wildlife Watch after school club, holiday events and Really Wild Birthday parties. Tearoom and shop also on site for refuelling and treats!

Brueton Park, Warwick Road, Solihull B91 3HW

th

24 February

Activities morning and afternoon, every day!

Really Wild Parties Very competitive prices, offered every weekend throughout the year for up to 20 children

OUR EVENTS COST £3.50 per child All our 2017 events now booking online www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on

New initiative for the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust. Plans for a Nature School in Nuneaton & Bedworth Area, check out www.warwickshirewildifetrust.org.uk/natureschools

Half Term Nature Fun Nature Babies stays at its normal time of Monday 10-12 & Nature Tots Friday 10:30-12 or 1:30-3. ALL other events this week will have two daily sessions at 10:30-11:30 & 12-1 Monday - Nature Babies Tuesday (am) – Red Robin, Bird watching and make your own feeder 6+ Tuesday (pm) – Dens 6+ Wednesday (am) Winter Woodland 4+ Wednesday (pm) Prickly Friends 2+ Thursday (am) Arty Winter Wander 2+ Thursday (pm) Teeny Tiny Den Building 2-5 Friday – Nature Tots am & pm sessions

.

Sports and Recreation Trust launches Small Grants programme This spring the Meriden Sports and Recreation Trust is launching a Small Grants Programme and is encouraging all organisations and groups within Meriden Parish to propose projects, events or activities that the Trust might support financially through grant funding.

Meriden Sports and Recreation Trust was launched in 2016 to look after the funds needed to support Meriden Sports Park and to support other sports and recreation projects and events in the Parish for people of every age group.

Proposals should support ‘amateur sports, recreational or other leisure time activities within the Parish of Meriden in the interests of social welfare’, in accordance with the Trust’s charitable objectives.

See the Guidance Note below.

The Trustees are keen to stress that applications will be particularly welcome from those involved in sports and recreational pursuits that are not catered for by Meriden Sports Park. They are also keen to encourage applications from groups representing all recreational interests – not just sport – and representing all sections of our community, including older people.

Copies of the guidance note and the application form for grants can be obtained by emailing info@meridensrt.org.uk or by contacting Iain Roxburgh on 01676 522496.

The deadline for applications for grants for this year is 1st June.

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

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

Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk

Introductory Offer Coffee and cake £3.00

`

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

At our November meeting we welcomed back Glynis Gayton to update us on the Malawi Project. The last time she spoke to usand sheMeet talkedEach aboutOther her plans to Community set up a bakery in Malawi. lovesofthe people there and Come at the Centre on theGlynis 4th Friday the has been outmonth to helpat in2.00 the orphanage on several occasions. As she is a baker by trade on one of her trips she p.m. suggested building a bakery connected to the orphanage as she wanted to create jobs whilst at the same time providing much needed food. Glynis has therefore been busy fundraising and has raised £34,500 in two years.

Every penny she raises goes to the charity and she doesn’t even claim postage etc. Everything in Africa moves very slowly .but the bakery building is now up and they also have a separate toilet block. However, there is still no electricity as they are waiting for the equipment to be made and brought in from South Africa! Another bakery has offered to train three young men as bakers and the hope is that in time they will generate enough money from the project to become self-sufficient.

At the end of the meeting we donated money for the loaves she had baked and also for cards etc. which she had brought along with her in order to raise funds.

We celebrated Christmas with a funny sketch entitled ‘Our First Pantomime’ which was performed by four of our members. We were grateful to them and Joan Jones for her work as director. We sang a number of our favourite carols including O Come All Ye Faithful, Away In A Manger, Little Donkey and O Little Town of Bethlehem and listened to some Christmas poems including a humorous piece based on the twelve days of Christmas. We then enjoyed mince pies, shortbread, sausage rolls and stollen cake!

We welcomed in the New Year with a quiz compiled by Sue Fuller on the names of confectionery products.

This was quite difficult but good fun and we enjoyed working together in groups to work out the answers.

Winners were awarded small packets of sweets. We then discussed the sweets of our childhood and sampled some old fashioned ones.

We look forward to welcoming more friends to our meetings so if you need information or a lift please telephone:

Joan 523507 or Pam 523372 Forthcoming Meetings:-.

24th March - Talk by a Church Commisioner 28th April – Meal Out. 19th May – Tea Party at Meriden School.

Extreme Clean A wide range of professional cleaning services for domestic and commercial properties.

Our services include carpet cleaning, house cleaning, office cleaning, and end of tenancy cleaning.

We've built up a reputation to provide a good quality, reliable service and value for money.

Please call Caroline on 07722077688 to arrange a professional cleaning service that you can rely on.

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

How easy is it to live each day and see (what we perceive as) all the negative things that other people say and do? How quick are we to think how someone has wronged us, or short changed us or insulted us? It happens so easily and so often and it feels so natural that it almost becomes human nature, however we must realise that it is not God’s nature. In fact loving one another is made clear throughout the bible. One such example is found in John 15:12; ‘My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you’.

I have been through many trails and tests in my life but I can think of two specific situations that have been extremely painful. In both situations God taught me some huge lessons and changed my heart, mind and actions, which as a result transformed my life. I find that God often does this, He puts me in situations which at the time I have no idea why they have to happen but then further down the line He shows me that these difficult things have to take place for change to happen to allow the will of God to unfold; James 1:2-3 ‘Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance’. I also find that the difficult situations I am faced with are usually about me having to look at myself and to focus on me rather than someone or something else.

Don’t get me wrong, my natural instinct in many circumstances is to look at what the other person has done to me, however there is only so long that God’s spirit in us will allow us to do this because whilst we are focussing on others we experience the complete opposite of the fruits of the spirit; Galatians 5:22-23 ‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control’. I have come to realise that I cannot control anyone else’s behaviour or actions, I can only look at and change my own. Someone also once told me that we are all ‘mirror images’ of one another and something we see in someone else that we don’t particularly like is often something that we need to look at in ourselves. I don’t know how true this is (there’s no science behind it) but I know that I always apply this test and it is usually the case! What a transformation we would see in this world if we applied this philosophy every time we have a disagreement, get hurt or offended or feel betrayed etc.

All relationships in our lives whether family, friendship, marriage, professional etc will go through difficult times, and it is inevitable that one person if not both will get upset, hurt or offended at some point. At these times it is easy to blame the other person, yet God tells us in Matthew 7:3-5 ‘Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye’. I think it is fair to say that at some point, myself included, that we have all been guilty of this. How is it that we find it so easy to look at ourselves in the mirror each day and check our physical (external) appearance before we leave our house? Even when we’re running late will we still have a quick peek before we go out! Why then do we not find time to look in our own ‘internal mirror’ and examine our inner being, because this is what is truly important? The bible tells us that God looks at our heart, not at our hair or clothes!

Proverbs 21:2 ‘A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart’. The popular Michael Jackson song, ‘the man in the mirror’ although, to actually absorb and apply those words would not only transform our relationships, and our whole life, but also us! Although these specific words may not be found in the bible God provides us with His own words, praise God; 2 Corinthians 13: ‘Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? These words confirm many of the fundamental teachings of Jesus because love, kindness, forgiveness, goodness and gentleness are mentioned throughout the bible. The power we have to transform our lives by looking at the ‘man in the mirror’, rather than others is incredible. Looking at ourselves not only takes away negative feelings such as anger, judgment, hurt, resentment which the word tells us are all ‘acts of the flesh’ as detailed in Galatians 5:19-21, but it also replaces them with feelings of peace, love, joy and forgiveness and allows us to experience the fruits of the spirit as detailed above in Galatians 5:22-23.

Ultimately forgiveness is not about accepting that someone who hurts us is right, it is having faith that God is in control and He will do what is right. So, in all situations we can only be responsible for ourselves, we should ‘let it go’ and look at/work on our part and hand over the situation in faith, to God; Hebrews 10:30 ‘For we know Him who said, It is mine to avenge; I will reply, and again, The Lord will judge His people’.

So let God deal with your circumstance, trust it to him and always start with the ‘man in the (internal) mirror.’ Don’t waste any time feeling hurt and offended, instead be full of joy and happiness as you turn into the person God has created you to be. (This article was written as a blog by a member of MCF Life Church).

Every blessing Kevin and Lyn Hunt.

Kevin and Lyn Hunt, MCF – Life Church, 113, Main Road, Meriden, CV7 7NH

Tel: 07970 552 667.

MERIDEN TREE OF THOUGHT. I am delighted to inform you all that, since I founded it on November 17th 2005, the tree Has raised, to date, £ 51,365 for the cancer care charities!!! I have said it before and I'm saying it again-this outstanding figure is down to the level of support I receive, both financial and practical, from many of you. I received, enormously appreciated, donations from The Earl and Countess of Aylesford, DeMulder Enterprises, Pertemps, ToBook, The Cassidy Group, Fordes on the Green and John Williamson (Kleeneze).

To those of you who bought the lovely Christmas Cards -Thank you, as indeed to Julie Hyde (Centre of England Arts) for the beautiful picture and her permission for me to use it. Also to the Meriden Mag for its front page promotion. I can tell you that the cards made a profit of £473.

On the subject of practical support: - On dedication day, The Rev Lynda Lilley and Carol Todd were amazing again!! The ladies from the Manor Hotel were so very good with the provision of mulled wine and hot chocolate, the proceeds from which they donated to the tree of thought. Such a kindness!! The dedication itself could not happen without more hands-on support. For this, I acknowledge Debbie Starkey, John Atherton, Paul and Flick Blewitt, Melvyn Sidwell, Colin Brown, Roy Green, John Baker, Mark Lilley, Jonathan Douglas and Lorraine Horlor. I must give a particular mention to Eddie Walker. After the service, several of my helpers could not get back and Eddie, with help from Craig Neilson, saved the day by taking down all of the equipment!!!. My thanks go, also, to the Nijjer Family (Spar Shop) for the sweets given to the children after "they have sung for them". They did, again, earn them!

From the lovely comments I received, I believe that all who were there thoroughly enjoyed it.

I cannot praise The Manor Hotel highly enough for the senior’s Lunch. Every aspect was faultless!! What a wonderful and hugely popular gesture, on the part of Lucy Talbot Clegg (General Manager), for The Village.

Put everything together and I say as ever, a SINCERE THANKYOU to all who play their part.!!!!

Vivienne says “Thank You”

Alan Lole

Firstly I would like to thank the Manor Hotel for inviting nearly two hundred ‘young at heart residents’ for a Christmas dinner, charging a very moderate fee. The Meal was excellent and the Manor Staff were very attentive.

Also gratitude goes out to all residents of Meriden who display their Christmas decorations around their houses, especially the houses opposite Meriden pool. I’m sure the children are delighted and in high spirits when they see all the displays and I think of all the effort and labour put into arranging the exhibits, plus the electricity bill arriving the following month!

I would especially like to thank Alan Lole who is the instigator of the Meriden Tree of Thought, which gives a great deal of pleasure to so many people in the village and Adam’s Tree surgery of Dorridge for once again erecting the tree. Meriden Parish Council and Solihull MBC make a joint effort to dress the large oak tree on the village green; so once again thank you all for giving your time and providing the funds.

I have also noticed three ladies who probably live in Millison’s Wood, who walk down Meriden Hill in the mornings picking up all the litter and sometimes removing dropped branches. They even provide their own carrier bags. So when the daffodils come into bloom the hill is going to look stupendous and litter free.

Lastly I would like to express my gratitude to all my friends and neighbours for the help and attention I received when my foot surgery was carried out last October. Not everybody has a paper boy aged 80 “You done well boy”. I do enjoy reading the Meriden Mag and find it very interesting and informative.

Vivienne Murphy

“Christmas at the Manor” On behalf of the Firebird Singers I would like to thank everyone who supported our sell-out concert at the Manor Hotel in December. This concert was the second in our season in support of the Alzheimer’s Society, the final one is on Saturday 10th June at the Blue Coat School Coventry.

At the end of these three concerts we are hoping to make a sizable donation to the Alzheimer’s Society, thanks to everyone’s generosity.

I would particularly like to thank Manor Hotel for donating the use of the beautiful Aylesford Suite and all their help on the day.

We are hoping to be back again next year, so watch this space. In the meantime if you would like more information about the Firebird Singers or are interested in joining us, please give me a call on 01676 522963 Valerie Martin Please see centre pages for colour photograph

Samaritan’s Purse I would like to say a big thank you to the people of Meriden who filled a shoe box for the charity.

From this area eight boxes were sent to the Middle East.

Thank you Lucy Ball

The Meriden Plumber NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL 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 (inc electrics, plastering, tiling & carpentry work)

All Plumbing Work Undertaken

07972 868 512 email:meridenplumber@hotmail.co.uk www.themeridenplumber.co.uk

BALSALL COMMON VETS

A Coventry Way Association’s Annual Challenge The annual 40 mile A Coventry Way Challenge takes place this year on Palm Sunday - April 9th. The Challenge organisers are again grateful to Caroline and Lawrence for allowing the event to start and finish at the Queen's Head in Meriden.

The route encircles Coventry, always about five miles from the city centre. This year a small change to the route is required along the Greenway (dismantled railway) towards Kenilworth. Currently there is no access along the Greenway through from Berkswell to Burton Green due to a bridge over the track having a 'health & safety' issue. The Challenge director, Bob Carey has successfully investigated a safe route that will bypass the hazard.

Around 250 have signed up to take part, with many using their efforts of the day to raise sponsorship benefiting their particular charity.

Further details of the event and the route can be found at http://www.acoventryway.org.uk

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

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 are held at Berkswell Reading Room at 7.45pm for 8.00 pm start unless otherwise stated

Wednesday 8th March 8.00 pm RMS Titanic – Then & Now - Sheila Parkes.

An account of the fatal voyage in 1912 and of the Centenary Anniversary Voyage in 2012.

Wednesday 12th April 8.00 pm Balsall Common - Do You Really Know It? A presentation by Glyn Price. Where is it? What is it?

How is it governed? How has it developed?

Wednesday 10th May 8.00 pm Amy Johnson – Aviatrix Extraordinary.

A presentation by Roy Smart.

Amy was born in 1903 and became a pilot and engineer. She was a huge celebrity attracting massive interest and crowds. She was the first woman to fly solo from Britain to Australia.

She joined the Air Transport Auxiliary in World War II and disappeared in mysterious circumstances in January 1941.

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.

HOUSING IN MERIDEN’S GREEN BELT? BY DAVID McGRATH Many thanks to 125 + people who came to the public meeting at Meriden Social Club on the 7th December 2016 to find out the latest developments (pun intended) on Solihull Council’s bid to build more houses in the Borough Although this was a completely independent initiative I was delighted to receive support from the Social Club (venue free) and many other local residents and businesses who share my passion that we should know about – and have an active say in – the future of our village. Thank you too to our 3 Borough Councillors and 2 Parish Councillors for coming to the meeting Here is a summary of the key points from my presentation for residents who were not able to make the meeting: • Solihull Council has a legal duty to find more land on which to build houses. A large chunk of the wider housing shortage (37,500 houses) is generated by Birmingham. Solihull Council has a duty to help out and is looking to build 7150 new houses (including 1000 at the ‘HS2 interchange’ Bickenhill) • Our meeting was timed to coincide with the start of Solihull Council’s formal consultation on their proposals (which ended mid Feb 2017) • The implications for Meriden are: • A large number of new houses are proposed in nearby Balsall Common. At the last count it was 1150 extra houses (at 3 sites) in addition to all the houses you see being currently built • There is a proposal to allocate land for up to 50 houses/dwellings between Birmingham Rd and Maxstoke Lane (50% + social housing) • Although land owners and planning consultants put forward a number of other sites (10) in Meriden for development, Solihull Council has not backed these schemes Although there was a range of views expressed at the meeting it is fair to say that in the main residents: (a) Welcomed Solihull Council’s decision not to select a large number of green belt sites in Meriden for development which would have had a huge impact on our local countryside (b) Noted that Meriden’s ‘place’ in Solihull is as part of an attractive and historic family of small villages in the Borough surrounded by beautiful countryside. It does not wish to become a large commuter village (c) Noted that Meriden has already ‘done its bit’ for housing growth in recent years (via ‘Meriden Gate’ and Leys Lane) and that any further new housing should aim to support local population growth and/or provide specialist housing for older people so as to release family sized homes in the village (d) Concern was expressed that the infrastracture of the village was already ‘creaking’ and that any further housing development would place strain on parking (e.g. by the shops), increase problems traffic, impact on school and nursery places as well as Doctor’s waiting times I undertook to keep people ‘in the loop’ on this issue and support people to contribute to the consultation process. I provided email bulletins to people attending the meeting who ‘signed up’ for such notices So now we await the outcome of the consultation exercise. It is clear that this is not the end of this issue. What will plans look like for the new proposed site in Meriden – if the consultation exercise supports its inclusion in the Local Plan? Now that this consultation has ended a final draft of the Plan will be produced and their will be further consultation later this year (spring 2017?). Residents will also want to have their say on this. Will other aspiring developers (who submitted other proposals for Meriden) press their case despite the Council’s current preference?

Watch this space and also http://www.solihull.gov.uk/lpr David McGrath (former Chairman Meriden RAID) (see centre pages for colour picture)

Heart of England High Speed Railway Action Group It's taken 8 years to get HS2 this far. Should we be surprised, disappointed, or angry that it's gone through Parliament "warts and all"? We were told at the start HS2 Ltd thought their scheme was perfect, but the inability of the two Select Committees to impose more environmental protection, has been sad, but perhaps predictable.

Particularly in the Lords, the Committee was only comfortable recommending financial compensation, but, with anything vaguely technical, only able to "exhort" HS2 Ltd to "do better".

The dogged defence of the indefensible by HS2 Ltd has put the project 2 years behind plan. As I've written before, the shortcomings in the legislation place the Local Authorities in the firing line if the scheme was to go ahead.

We've seen - or rather, heard - the sort of issues that would arise with the piling noise emanating from Cornets End in the autumn. That level of technology would be completely unacceptable for the building of 7 km of high-speed line through our area.

There are other worries. The location of the waste recycling centre displaced by HS2 remains uncertain, but the "search area" is just to the west of Meriden. And planners are anticipating a growth in traffic around the proposed station at Middle Bickenhill, so new roads and a 2nd runway at the Airport are being considered.

Busy times lie ahead.

Richard Lloyd Chairman

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!

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 300 members and 28 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 2 March 2017 6th April 2017 1st May 2017 nd

Topic Sentenced to Beyond the Seas Round the World Clipper Race Remembering the Swinging Sixties

Speaker David Clark Malcolm Evans Mike Watkins

Core meetings are held in St Peters Hall, Holly Lane, Balsall Common and start at 2:00 pm.

Prospective members are always welcome to attend.

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

Help Wanted Local person needed to prepare and cook fresh lunch daily for an elderly couple Phone 01676 522534

22nd 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 £15.00.

Group tables available.

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

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

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

jobs@thejobsquad.co.uk

email:officehancock.brown@gmail.com www.hancock-brown.co.uk

Bennetts Road North Corley Coventry CV7 8BG

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

01676 540178 New Coffee shop opening in April

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 :

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

Furniture & 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

Coming soon a range of new

• • • • •

01676 523 192 home

modern furniture, plus shabby chic and a lovely choice of gifts, scarves and jewellery Flowers for weddings, funerals and special occasions to order.

Please call in to discuss your requirements

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

Spring is in the air with lovely misty dawns… Have a go at this impression of an early morning. You will need watercolour paper, watercolour paints and a bit of imagination.

1. Start with the background colours. Pre mix puddles of the colours you want to use I used:• Yellow • Yellow + Red (pale peach) • Blue + Red (weak blue/purple) • Blue • Dark Blue and a touch of Dark Brown (blue/grey or you can use a grey colour such as Payne’s Grey or Indigo) Then wet the paper all over with a big soft brush. While this is still wet add the colours in bands starting with the palest and weakest, adding in the other colours.

LET IT DRY COMPLETLEY 2. Lightly draw the little church and a few little houses and also if you want to, the horses in the foreground. You don’t need to draw all the trees.

3. Then mix two or three different strength puddles of:• Dark Blue and a touch of Dark Brown (blue/grey or you can use a grey colour such as Payne’s Grey or Indigo) Start with the paler trees, taking one band of the landscape at a time, wet the paper BELOW a row of trees and buildings.

With a small brush paint a suggestion of the trees, starting at the top of the tree on the dry paper and working down until it touches into the water you have just put on the paper. Let it fade away on the damp paper.

Start with the paler bands of trees, moving on the darker ones. LET IT DRY BETWEEN EACH BAND. Move on to another area and repeat.

Gradually work all over the scene, taking one band at a time, putting water on the paper just below the row of trees or buildings and working the trees on the dry paper, down into the dampened area.

4. Foreground. Using the same blue/grey add a band or two of clean water and then a couple of streaks of grey onto the foreground for shadows.

Let it dry and then paint the shapes of the horses on to dry paper with the stronger mix of the same colour.

By Julie Hyde For more information on art classes at Centre of England Arts contact Julie on 01676 523357 or see the website www.CoEA.co.uk We now run pottery and stained glass classes as well as painting classes.

Created by Julie Hyde

Email:jph300@hotmail.com

Copyright © 2017

Two Churches Walk

This is a good walk for a spring day, although the instructions start at Eastern Green it might be easier to begin at Meriden Church instead.

Two walks anti clockwise Main walk 6.6 miles Route A 5.5 miles

Meriden Rotary Club Santa Fun Run 10th December 2016 (photos 2 & 3 courtesy of Roy Hands)

Escape from Meriden November 2016 ********** Firebird Singers “Christmas at the Manor” December 2016

Front cover, the Licensing of The Revered Lynda Lilley as Priest-inCharge in the Parish of St Laurence, Meriden by the Right Revered John Stroyan Bishop of Warwick .Thursday 19th January 2017.

Opposite: The Mayor of Solihull addressing the congregation at the service. (Photographs courtesy of Councillor Melanie Lee) (Photographs courtesy of Councillor Melanie Lee)

Caroline Spelman, who has served as the MP for the Meriden constituency for over 19 years, was invested as a Dame in a ceremony led by HRH The Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace, on 10th February.

2017

1st Meriden Scout Group – News from the Green Hut Beaver Scouts At the start of this year we had to say goodbye to 6 Beavers as they moved up to Cub Scouts and welcomed another 6 new Beavers into the Group.

So far the Beavers have had a very busy winter period taking part in the annual Remembrance Service during November, taking part in a Dodge Ball competition raising funds in aid of the British Heart Foundation and the build up to Christmas including building a tree and taking part in the Christmas Tree Festival competition and having a great Christmas Party.

The Beavers have been working hard on their faith badge and as part of the badge they visited a Sikh Temple in Coventry.

It was a very enjoyable and interesting experience, and the Beavers behaved impeccably.

As we look forward to the next term, we will start working on the Digital Citizen Badge.

Cub Scouts We have had a very exiting 2016, participating in Cub 100 activities, (2016 was the 100th anniversary of the Cub Scout section in the UK), across the District and completed the series of events by renewing our Cub Scout Promise at the Meriden Green in December followed by a Cub 100 birthday party.

The start of the New Year has seen our newest Cub Scout members join our Group where we will be starting three new exciting badges Pioneer, Artist and Our World Challenge badges.

So far we have created our own Cub Scout themed artistic pictures, played games from different countries, identified important landmarks around our community and learned how to make our own rope and tie simple knots.

This year we will continue to complete our badges such as completing a night hike, creating personalised cards for Valentine's Day, continuing to develop our knotting skills and working with our local community to understand different services available in our area. We look forward to the lighter evenings so we can get out and about on more exciting adventures.

Scouts 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 pioneering, cooking, walking and egg flying machines The end of October saw us carving pumpkins for Halloween and we ended up with a great array on show at the back of the scout Hut. With the winter closing in we had a few more programmes inside. Concentrating on the pioneering badge and the world challenge. For the pioneering the Scouts looked at whippings and splices for the first time with quite a bit of success. While for the world challenge the Scouts participated in a trade game where they represented poor workers in Peru manufacturing training shoes for the big brands competing in a competitive and volatile market, hounded by loan sharks and tax collectors. I think this bought it home to them how lucky they are and how families in the third world really struggle to make ends meet.

We also had the Scouts practicing the saw knife and axe skills, their ability is progressing and no fingers or toes were lost in the process.

We finished the year off making mini Christmas cakes in empty sweet corn tins and then decorating and packaging them the following week. This was really successful and they tasted good too.

Since coming back after Christmas we have had an entertaining evening where the Scouts had to come up with a selfpropelled vehicle, suspended from a wire, to transport an egg along its length the furthest. Much hilarity was had with bursting balloons and broken eggs.

A couple of weeks ago we put a slight twist into our night hike. We dropped the four patrols off at different locations, with a leader, and they had to navigate their own way back to the headquarters. The leader wasn’t allowed to help. All but one group made it back successfully while the one group spent quite a while going in the wrong direction and once they’d realised their mistake there wasn’t time to walk all the way back so had to be fetched. None the less all had a great time and learnt from the experience.

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. We’re also looking into running another expedition as last year’s was so successful. For more detail of what we’ve been doing and what we have planned please visit our blog site at http://1stmeridenscouts.blogspot.co.uk and if you think Scouting’s for you get in touch.

If Bear Dares why don’t you.

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

Beavers: Girls and boys aged 6-8 years meet on a Monday at 6.30pm. Contact Becky 07967674308 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

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

Meriden Volunteers for At the end of the financial year we are very proud to have sent £10,800 to the National Cancer Research UK account.

I am pleased to report that we made £1100 profit at our Christmas party, and we are now planning this year’s programme.

Our first event is a Country Night with live music from the quartet Knoxville Highway on Friday 24th March at the Heart of England Social Club. We are pleased to welcome this very popular group back to entertain us.

We are also arranging a coach trip to Tutbury Castle on Monday 8th May. There will be free time in Lichfield in the morning, perhaps to visit the amazing cathedral. We will then travel to Tutbury Castle where Lesley Smith will entertain us as Margaret Thatcher. She will be covering “her journey” from above a grocers shop to the Houses of Parliament.

This will not be a political event but a chance to learn more about a strong woman. Both men and women are welcome and the price is £30 which will include afternoon tea at the castle. If you are interested in either of these events please contact us on the numbers above. Thank you for your support, Mary and the Meriden Committee

Local Bookkeeper Country Night

With 25 years’ experience is looking to take on new clients in the area.

“Let me take the stress away by completing your

featuring Knoxville Highway

VAT/CIS/ Self-Assessment Tax returns Wages /PAYE Auto Enrolment Pension

Friday 24th March 8.00pm Heart of England Social Club

Leaving you to concentrate on your business.”

Tickets on sale at £8.00

Please call Fran to discuss your needs

Snacks for sale at the bar

07940 700284

Jane West

The Orme School of Dancing Meriden Branch

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

Jennifer Faulkner

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

Methodist Church Hall Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Gymnastic and Contemporary Dance aged 2 ½ years upwards

Fellowship Teaching Degree Dip A.B.R.S.M

Tel: 02476 467271

www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk

Principal Sandra Clarke F.I.D.T.A (Hons) M.B.B.O. (Hons)

Guitar and Ukulele

Tuition Individual or Group Sessions

Experienced Adult Education Tutor Eastern Green Contact 07742 288113

Beginners Adult Tap Classes 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?

Story time for the under-fives – Our Story Time session is aimed at pre-school children and will continue to take place every Monday 2:45- 3:15. Please come and join in our lovely group of parents and carers: make friends and enjoy some stories and a craft.

Rhyme Time – Come along with your preschool children every Thursday 2:45-3:15pm to sing along to some classic nursery rhymes as well as learning some new songs. We look forward to welcoming you to our lively group.

Reading Café 10.30 – 11.30 am Romance, crime, historical, classics, family sagas, thrillers and so many more; what’s your favourite theme? Drop into the library for our Reading Café and meet other readers for a chat about books, authors, reading or anything else over a coffee. Dates and themes for spring are: Monday 20 March

Mothers in literature

Monday 10 April

Chocolate stories

Monday 15 May

Crime!

Free internet access

Readers Circle 8th March.

A book of short stories

12th April.

An Autobiography/Biography of an American president

10th May.

A book by Terry Pratchett

If any of these appeal, please give Peter Moss a call on 01676 523590 for further information and the venue.

‘Book swap phone box The old red telephone box at the corner of Albert Road, Millison’s Wood, has been turned into a book swap library.

Bring along the books that you have read and swop them for another – free of charge!

What a good idea and very good use of a Great British icon!

Meriden Library has free to use computers and offers: • 2 hours free internet access for library members • Microsoft Office packages • printing facilities (charges apply) • scanners You will need your library card to use a computer. If you’re not yet a member, joining the library is easy and quick, so ask staff for more details.

Library members can book a computer for up to 2 hours free of charge each day. Sessions can be extended for £1.50 per hour or part of an hour.

Computers are available until 15 minutes before the library closes.

Wi-Fi - Free Wi-Fi access is available at all Solihull libraries. Ask staff for more information.

Computer Tuition – If the idea of using a computer fills you with dread; if you don’t know Facebook from Google or email from searching online – we are here to help! We offer a six week computer taster course for all ages, where you can learn on a one-to-one basis with a tutor. There is a small charge. Please ask for more details.

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

The Dragon Tamer By Maggie Cabeza

Despite being a private person, Maggie acted upon a compulsion to write about her feelings and concerns on Facebook regarding her health. This would eventually lead to the publishing of this journal as Maggie began her two year battle against bowel cancer.

Forced to close down her business as a cognitive behavioural therapist, she now had to apply all the techniques she had taught others to manage her own anxieties and fears. She also remembered her love of art as a child and picked up her brushes to reflect her feelings and found it helped with managing her physical and emotional state.

This book is written from the heart, with anecdotes, humour and hope. It is available on Amazon both as a paperback and on Kindle.

A Message from Councillor Tony Dicicco One of the major challenges that we face in 2017 and beyond, is trying to meet the requirements for new housing and infrastructure without destroying our beautiful countryside. It is a difficult balancing act, and one that Solihull Council (SMBC) and local parish councils are trying to manage. I believe that the best way to tackle the issues that we face is to work together. Meriden parish council has been active in putting its ideas across to SMBC, taking into account the views of local residents in Meriden. Local residents have also had the opportunity to respond to SMBC’s consultation on the draft Local Plan for Solihull – this lays out how SMBC plans to meet its future housing requirements.

I attended a meeting in Meriden before Christmas with my fellow councillors, David Bell and Ken Allsopp, to discuss the Local Plan and the proposed effect on Meriden. The draft Plan includes a proposal for around 50 new homes in Meriden – this compares to around 1,150 new homes proposed for Balsall Common over the next 10 to 15 years. It was interesting to hear residents’ views and concerns over erosion of the Green Belt. David, Ken and I tried to allay these concerns and we stressed the importance of SMBC developing an agreed Local Plan that meets Solihull’s housing requirement, including any obligation we have to meet wider housing needs in the West Midlands. We need to keep control of where and when future housing will be built. The big danger for residents across Solihull is if we do not have an agreed Local Plan – this would give developers the opportunity to challenge the council in court and we would most likely lose control of the process, allowing inappropriate development across the borough. We must not allow this to happen and therefore I support the proposals in the draft Local Plan that was recently out for consultation.

My focus over the next few years will be to work with my fellow councillors and council officers to ensure that development takes place over a timescale that is manageable and that local infrastructure is upgraded to cope with this increase. Housing development can have a positive effect on a local area if it is done in the right way and is sensitive to the needs of local people. This will not happen, however, if we lose control of the process to developers – their requirements are not necessarily aligned with ours’.

If you wish to discuss the contents of this article, or have any other council-related matters, please contact me at tony.dicicco@solihull.gov.uk.

Doctor Peter Lea 2.9.1938 – 9.11.2016 Doctor Lea was a partner in the Meriden Practice from 1966 – 2003.

He was very well respected in the village and many families still remember his care with thanks. He was the Doctor who always went the extra mile.

He represented Meriden ward for the Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council for 25 years and he took an active part in village affairs. He was made an alderman of the borough for his 25 years of service following an illuminated address.

He served on Balsall Common Parish Council from 1976.

He was Chairman of the governors of Heart of England School and also Balsall Common Primary School.

Peter was so obviously a people person. He made friends easily wherever he went. He gave so much of himself in all he did for the community and he was loved for it. His company, his sage advice and his wicked sense of humour was loved by all.

Despite his failing health Peter did not miss any meetings. He knew as a doctor only too well what was ahead of him. Perhaps it made him all the more determined to make full use of his time. He would adjust his medication around his meetings but what really carried him on was his tremendous courage and his indomitable spirit.

Our sympathy goes to his widow Pamela and their four children.

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

Kickboxing Fitness Class

Meriden Methodist Church Hall Wednesday 6.30 – 7.30pm All ages and abilities welcome

Call Laura on 07803 621818 Knowle Fun Run Sunday 21 May Entries are open for next May’s Knowle Fun Run. Now with a choice of 5k or 10k runners have no excuse not to get fit for Solihull’s longest running Fun Run with a great community atmosphere on trafficfree streets and help raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK, Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, Motor Neurone Disease Association and local causes; or run for your own cause.

Enter online at www.knowlefunrun.org.uk

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 'Zumba is a fun Latin inspired dance/exercise class suitable for all levels'

PILATES style conditioning A slower paced class for all over body conditioning to improve muscle tone, strength, balance and flexibility

Spring into action with us and drive down crime Hopefully as you sit and read this message spring has sprung. I hope that the beginning of 2017 has been a safe and prosperous one for you and your family and that this continues for the months ahead. My latest message will focus on spring and the associated crime prevention, but it is a topic that is proving a little surreal to write.

I’m incredibly grateful for the hard work that goes on behind the scenes by a number of people whose dedication makes it possible for publications like this to drop on your doorstep. But as I’m writing this at the end of January, there is snow on the ground and more forecast. Spring seems some distance away.

The truth is though that as your local officers we are already planning how to keep you safe for the months ahead, despite how hard it may be at the moment to imagine spring. We’re only too aware that often crimes, and the behaviour of those who commit the offences, are predictable.

As the temperatures rise so can reports of seasonal burglaries and theft from cars as doors and windows are accidentally left open. We don’t want to spoil your enjoyment of the spring; we simply don’t want it to be affected by crime.

As you read this you may be preparing to roll up your sleeves and tackle those jobs that you’ve been putting off until the weather improves. You may be taking a rest from some work on the house or garden. Or you may be planning to ask a professional to complete some work on your behalf.

If you’re completing the work please don’t leave yourself vulnerable to crime. Opportunist criminals think you’ll be leaving doors unlocked as you work in the garden and tools and other gardening equipment up for grabs. Please prove them wrong!

At the end of a long day of tiring work 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 them away.

If you choose to get a professional to complete the work on your behalf then please remember there are still steps you can take to avoid falling prey of a crime in the form of a rogue trader. We’re working closely with Trading Standards to reduce this type of crime. And we’d strongly suggest that you visit the Citizen Advice Bureau website for a host of information and advice you should consider before getting work completed.

If you need any building work done get several written quotes from reputable firms and then decide which one is best. If in doubt talk it through with a neighbour or someone in your family.

Don't let unexpected callers to your door pressurise you into having work completed that may not even need carrying out. Don’t forget if you think someone is acting suspiciously then please call us on 101. Dial 999 if you think a crime is in progress.

Moving away from seasonal crime I’d like to discuss something we can also see an increase in at this time of year…antisocial behaviour. In particular I’d like to ask parents, grandparents and young people for their help with this topic.

I appreciate that the behaviour of a small minority of young people must not give a whole generation a bad reputation. My team and I work with schools and clubs across the neighbourhood and there are some incredible young ambassadors for our communities out there.

All I’d ask parents and guardians to do is simply remind young people to be mindful of how their behaviour could affect other people. Equally if the young people have any concerns about the safety of themselves or their peers we are always here to help and offer them advice.

Thank you. Police Sergeant Mick Lloyd

David Deakin Plastering Services Interior plastering and coving work.

Insurance work welcome.

Free Estimates, reliable, friendly, clean service.

Tel: 01676 521389 Mobile: 07767 237860

Escape from Meriden At midnight one cold and frosty night in November 2016over 100 runners set off from Meriden Green. They were taking part in an individual endurance race, to see how far they could run in 24 hours.

Earlier in the evening they congregated at Meriden Methodist Hall for coffee, preparation and a rest before they set off.

Two of the contestants had flown into Birmingham airport for the event; one had come from Guernsey and the other from the Isle of Mann! Some ran in pairs and others preferred to go it alone. Although the contestants were mostly men, there were some ladies taking part as well.

They all had different goal destinations and were seeing how far they could travel on foot towards them in 24hours. Each runner had a tracker device and Richard, their leader, had a master tracker so he could check where they were. If they should be in any trouble the master flasher would flag up their position and they could be rescued.

The winners of the “pairs” competition managed 105 miles in 24hours. They had arrived in Merseyside and decided to wade into the river towards Hilbre Island. This caused Richard a bit of concern as he thought they were in the sea!

All their land and river miles added up to 105.

The singles runner achieved 90 miles and got as far as Bristol. Two runners were even stopped by the Police and questioned!

These guys and girls are marathon runners and mountain climbers and they were testing their own abilities.

The event will be repeated on 2nd June this year, hopefully in warmer conditions. The Methodist Church will again play host and are going to advertise the event in advance so we can cheer them off at midnight.

For more information please see www.escapefrommeriden.co.uk Please see centre pages for a further photograph

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

Rhubarb Rhubarb is an attractive hardy perennial with large leaves and pink, red or greenish leaf stalks that are used as a dessert, often in pies and crumbles.

Stems are usually picked in spring, but plants can be covered with pots to produce an early crop of blanched stalks in late winter. The flavour of rhubarb varies in sweetness depending on the age of the stems.

Keep rhubarb free of weeds by covering the ground with a mulch of composted manure , but avoid burying the crown as it will rot. Cover the area above the roots with 100g per sq m (4oz per square yard) of general purpose fertiliser in March and water regularly in dry spells to keep it moist and actively growing until autumn.

When the top growth dies back in autumn, remove the dead leaves to expose the crown to frost – this will help break the dormancy and ensure a good crop of stalks on the following year.

To get an earlier crop, you can force stems. To force stems, cover the crown with a traditional forcing jar, bucket or upturned pot in late winter, ensuring that all light is blocked out. Cover drainage holes in pots with a brick or stones.

When stems reach the top of the container, they are ready for harvesting. Forced stems are lighter coloured and tenderer than those grown in the open and are generally ready three weeks earlier.

Rhubarb needs an open, sunny site with moist, but free draining soil as it hates being waterlogged in winter. Avoid frost pockets as stems are susceptible to frost.

It can be grown from seed but it is easier to purchase dormant crowns and plant during autumn and spring. Prepare the ground by digging in two bucketful per square metre/yard of well-rotted manure, then spread out the roots and plant so that the tip of the crown is just visible above the soil.

Rhubarb and Ginger Jam 1.5 kg rhubarb 1.5 kg sugar 130ml lemon juice 25g root ginger Wipe the rhubarb and cut into chunks.

Place in a bowl layered up with the sugar Add the lemon juice and leave overnight.

Transfer to a preserving pan Add the bruised ginger tied in a muslin bag.

Bring to the boil and boil rapidly until setting point is reached. Remove the ginger .Pour into warmed jars, label and cover.

Brailes Farm 522318

Potatoes

Village delivery

Rhubarb Fool This is such a simple dessert 500g rhubarb 2tbsp orange juice 125g sugar Finely grated rind of ½ orange 150 ml thick custard (bought) 150 ml double cream, or Greek yogurt or crème fraiche.

Cut up the rhubarb in about 1cm slices and simmer with the orange juice until soft, cool and sieve into a puree.

Add the grated rind Fold in the custard followed by the whipped double cream or yogurt or crème fraiche.

Serve cold with shortbread biscuits.

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

Did you knowour aboutlocal our local nature reserve?

Did you know about nature Reserve?

On the doorstep of Meriden lies Marsh Lane Nature Reserve, located just off the A452 two miles north of Balsall Common. Working with the landowners, Packington Estates, Natural England and Cemex Uk have transformed these former sand and gravel pits into a 22-hectar nature reserve. The pools have been reshaped to include a number of islands which attracts a range of breeding and passage wading birds. There are six hides which overlook the pools on the reserve that allow close views of the birds, while there are two more hides on the other side of the River Blythe. These can be accessed through the 13 acre Siden Hill Wood. In addition, there is a five-acre field set aside which has been created to provide food for finches and buntings in winter.

In summer the reserve can be alive with Swallows and Sand Martins flitting across the water and adjacent flood plain, while singing warblers actively proclaim their territories around the margins of the pools and surrounding hedges. Also in summer the reserve holds breeding Oystercatchers and a colony of Common Terns among the many breeding Blackheaded Gulls on the islands. Winter brings in good numbers of duck, particularly Wigeon and Teal and small numbers of the attractive Goosander can often be present.

A total of 202 species of birds have been recorded at Marsh Lane, which includes such surprise sightings of a Stone Curlew and a Hoopoe. An astonishing Dusky Warbler was found in the autumn of 2013, a species which breeds in Siberia right across to Northern China and then winters in India, southern China and south-east Asia. There are birds that have been blown off course from across North America, such as Pectoral and Spotted Sandpipers and a much appreciated summer plumaged adult Bonaparte’s Gull which are among some of the more unexpected species that have occurred on the reserve. There are regular sightings of Peregrine Falcons throughout the year and in late summer Hobbies can be watched hawking the dragonflies over the reserve, sometimes at close range.

There is an annual permit scheme managed by Packington Park Estate which for a fee gives you a key to access all the areas of the reserve. Prices for an annual membership are currently single adult £41, OAP £36, children under 16 £21.

Working couples who would like a joint annual membership it is £69 and OAP it is £59. Anybody who would like further information can contact the estate office on 01676 522 020.

Day permits can also be obtained from Stonebridge Golf Centre, Somers Road (off Hampton Road) Meriden, CV7 7HF, or telephone 01676 522442. Day permits are charged at £4, however, you need a key to access the reserve and there is a deposit of £50 which you will be reimbursed when the key is returned. It is unfortunate that this became necessary but the scheme has been abused by some people paying £4 and not returning the key!

The money all goes back into maintaining and managing the reserve. If left just to nature these gravel pits soon become overgrown and less attractive to birds and other wildlife. There are also regular news letters sent out to members and an annual report, with excellent photographs not only of birds but other wildlife including, butterflies, moths and dragonflies that have been seen on the reserve.

What has been seen this winter?

There has been site record numbers of Wigeon, sightings of Pintail and Goldeneye, some good numbers of Redwings and Fieldfares around the reserve, a regular Stonechat and a rather elusive Cetti’s Warbler. Water Rails and Jack Snipe are birds to be looked for, as well as the more regular Common Snipe and good numbers of Lapwings.

What is likely to come in the next few months?

March should see the arrival of the first returning summer visitors and passage waders, followed in April and May by good numbers of singing warblers, passage wagtails and Wheatears, and maybe an Osprey, a Red Kite, or a Marsh Harrier could be encountered moving through if you are lucky.

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

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

The next Parish Council meeting dates are: • 20 March 2017 - The Pavilion • 24 April 2017 - Annual Parish Meeting, The Pavilion • 22 May 2017 - Annual Parish Council Meeting (Elections & Committee Nominations), The Pavilion

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

Community Surgeries 11am-12 noon • Monday 06 March 2017 – Meriden Library • Monday 10 April 2017 – The Pavilion • Monday 08 May 2017 – Meriden Library Website:

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

Your Parish Councillors are:

Rosie Weaver Frances BEM Lynch-Smith (Chair) (Vice Chair)

Bob Kipling

Melanie Lee

Paul Lee

Mandy Haque

Jon Barber

Matthew Nunn

3% Precept Increase 2017-18 Solihull MBC advised the new tax base of 1,241 Band D equivalent dwellings for 2017-18. This is an increase of 26 Band D equivalent dwellings.

Based on these indicative 2017-18 figures, Meriden Parish Council approved a 3% increase for 2017-18 which is a £1.07 increase per annum per Band D dwelling. This resolution was proposed and approved at Full Council meeting held on 23rd January 2017.

Meriden Parish Council advises this increase is necessary due to Solihull’s 44.21% reduction in Precept top up grant, increased staffing costs, and the Parish Council commitment to ‘Meriden in Bloom 2017’ and Meriden Pool Project.

Meriden’s Neighbourhood Plan Update Over the Christmas period 20 winners were drawn randomly from the Neighbourhood Plan Survey’s Prize Draw competition. Amongst the winners were Mr M Bennett, Ms A Walker, Mr R Dickinson, Mrs Wilkinson, Mr Urry, Ms J Marshall, Ms J Priestley, Mr Williams, Mr and Mrs Roxburgh, Mr S Blizard, Mr P Davison, Ms G Jones, Mr A Weatherstone and Mr and Mrs Collier.

Solihull’s Draft Local Plan Review consultation closed on 17 February and the parish council’s response can be viewed on our website. Based on consultation feedback, we anticipate the revised plan will emerge in Spring 2017.

The next phase of the Neighbourhood Plan is to conduct a survey with local businesses. If you would like to be part of the steering group, contact the Clerk. We meet monthly and the meeting dates can be found on our website.

Meriden in Bloom Thank you to Mrs Shirley Smithers for volunteering her topiary skills to maintain Meriden Sports Park’s topiary signage. Volunteers are needed for Meriden in Bloom 2017. Anyone interested should email the Clerk at barbarablandmpc@btconnect.com.

Meriden Great British Spring Clean This year Solihull MBC has decided to adopt the ‘Great British Spring Clean’. For a bit more information on this please visit: http://www.greatbritishspringclean.org.uk/home/2684 The Neighbourhood Activity Programme is promoting this opportunity to numerous groups across the borough offering their support if communities wish to get involved. The support provided is − Assistance with promotion of the event – including business contacts who may wish to get involved − Assistance with organising the event − Loan of equipment – litter pickers, hi-vis vests, branded bags − Collection of waste bags after the event − Where possible the Neighbourhood Team will attend the event.

Although the campaign is focused on the weekend of 3rd-5th March, SMBC would be looking for Solihull’s litter picks to take part at any point through March and possibly into April, if preferred.

Meriden Parish Council is keen to get involved and seeks volunteers to assist with the “Meriden Great British Spring Clean”. Can all interested parties please contact the Clerk.

Taxi Bus and 89 replacement service update Many of you may already know, the Taxibus service which provides vital transportation to our residents including older and disabled people will cease and Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has introduced the 89 bus service in its place. Unfortunately this change affects a large number of our isolated residents who are now unable to make vital trips to shops, social events, doctor appointments because the 89 bus cannot access where residents live due to the bus being too large to access certain roads and due to homes being too far away from the designated route.

TfWM released a Consultation Questionnaire which allowed residents to choose one of two route options on how they wish the 89 bus service to run as a means of providing a better service for all. The consultation period closed on 10th February with the view that the revised timetable be implemented by 26th March 2017. In the meantime, Meriden Parish Council is working with residents and neighbouring parishes to try and reinstate the Taxibus or Ring & Ride services to support our residents.

Speed Watch Update On Saturday 21 January, Councillors Weaver, Barber, M Lee and P Lee conducted a speed watch with WPC Sharon Grant. 558 vehicle movements were recorded within the hour on Hampton Lane. Average speed was 31mph but the 21 offenders we captured were speeding between 38 and 41mph. Volunteers are always needed, so contact the Clerk if you’re interested in taking part in a Speed Watch session.

Quarry news (i) – Highway mud update Quarry Operators met in January to address residents’ concerns, the outcome of which is featured in this statement from Harworth Group: “It was agreed that each operator would be responsible for deployment of a road sweeper to run for two hours a day (Mon-Fri) along Cornets End Lane to the roundabout and the internal road at Meriden Quarry (to as far as is passable by road sweeper). This should ensure that the highway is cleansed daily, and avoid operators duplicating efforts on the same day.

“Each operator is to reassess their on-site processes and controls to ensure that best effort is made to prevent mud ever getting on to the highway. In addition, NRS are to continue their daily road sweeping regime from their main site, and as and when they have vehicles running to the Meriden quarry site.

“The arrangement will be reviewed quarterly. It may be that the need to sweep the road is reduced in the summer months. Similarly, it may be that cleansing needs to be intensified in accordance with changes in operator activities over the year. Representatives from all operators were in attendance, and were all proactive to engage in this collaborative strategy.”

Quarry news (ii) – Biomass plant construction update Buckingham Construction is making excellent progress with the project and is currently on programme. The Water Treatment hall is complete and steelwork has commenced on the main facility. Major plant and equipment deliveries will commence in April to allow fit out of the facility. Assembly of the Combustor plus associated internal pipe work, tanks and equipment will progress through May and June. Plant commissioning, including trials and testing, will be undertaken in June and run through to mid-July. Construction will end and the facility will go live in mid-July.

If you have any further queries or concerns, contact Clive Bartlam at Northgate Management Consultancy on 0121 426 3024, or 07973 724 929 or email him at clive@northgatemc.co.uk.

[

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

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

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

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

Adam Eales 0794 389 3354 midlandscleaners@mail.com

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

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

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

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 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 ordered and delivered countrywide.

Contact 01676 534148

A free cup of tea or coffee with this voucher

For more details call June Smitten on 01676 523007

unit

News from the Heart of England School

Radio Fusion The Heart of England School radio station has received a welcome donation from the school PTA for new microphones which will greatly improve the sound quality of broadcasts.

School radio club meets twice a week with a variety of members from different years. This year we have a group of very enthusiastic Year 7 students who have been broadcasting their own show for some time now. “I love radio club. It’s such great fun and we have a good time,” said presenter Jamie.

Fusion Radio, the official name of the station was founded in 2005 not long after Enterprise Block was completed. Many students have been members of the club over the years and some have gone on to develop their interest in radio further after leaving school.

The station ‘broadcasts’ on the school network which can be picked up from any computer or device connected to it within school. Shows are also played out in the main dining areas at lunchtime.

Life, the Universe and Everything For the second year in a row science students from Heart of England have visited CERN, the largest particle physics laboratory in the world.

A group of Sixth Form students and two teachers set off for Geneva, Switzerland during the last week of term to visit the world-class engineering and science facilities at CERN. The group were also able to enjoy some of the cultural life of Geneva on the three-day trip.

Our students visited two exhibitions: the Universe and Particles exhibition in the Globe of Science and Innovation and the Microcosm exhibition which presents the work of CERN particle physics, including the LHC. Science teacher Jerry Crawford who led the trip said: “We visited the largest of the experiments, called ATLAS, where they discovered the Higgs boson. This is possibly the most important physics find in the last decade.” The ATLAS detector is part of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).

The facility at CERN is internationally famous for the science work they carry out there and as the world’s largest machine; the centre is at the forefront of engineering. It was here that in 1989 Sir Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web, which CERN gave to the world in 1993.

Mr Crawford sums up the value of the trip by saying: “A great opportunity for the students to experience the impact of science and stare at the face of the universe. CERN is at the forefront of Physics as the number one centre in the world for particle research.”

It certainly sounds like a fascinating and worthwhile trip. “These students have deepened their understanding of physics which they can put to good use and replicate the phenomenal exam results achieved last year,” Mr Crawford concluded.

Sports Roundup It’s In the Net! Congratulations are in order for the Heart of England Sixth Form basketball team who have won the Solihull Schools Basketball Association (SSBBA) tournament.

The team made it to the final on 18 January, where they faced Arden Academy to beat them in a tight match with a final score of 31-30. Well done!

Top Swimmers.

Two Heart of England swimming teams have come first in an inter-school gala against St Martin’s and Sutton Grammar. A Year 7/8 team and a Year 11 team produced fantastic performances with only seven swimmers resulting in second place overall.

Swimming Medal Haul Students from Heart of England have really made waves at the Solihull Borough Swimming Gala which took place in December.

The group of 28 students, with representatives from every year group performed fantastically well. Head of PE, Mr Churchill said: “We did really well at the Solihull Schools swimming gala. Our students came back with a whopping 43 Medals!”

Two students from the group have also been nominated for Solihull Sports Federation Roll of Honour awards. One has been nominated for reaching 8 finals in the National Welsh Summer Open championship and for representing Warwickshire at the National County championships. Another student has been nominated for being ranked 5th in the Midlands 50, 100 and 200m back stroke.

Well done everyone for successful team and individual efforts!

Basketball Play-offs Years 8, 9 and 10 basketball teams have successfully made it to the Solihull play-offs.

Football Two Year 7 students have been selected for the Solihull District football team. Congratulations to Dylan Warden and Ewan Vickers.

Rotary Club News Thanks to all for supporting our Santa Fun Run and Santa Sleigh visits.

Again the weather was kind to us and judging by the many happy smiling faces much fun was had all round.

The Fun Run again started and finished at Meriden Hall where hot chocolate, coffee and mulled-wine were provided with the compliments of The Manor Hotel.

We would like to thank all the runners and our sponsors who supported the event either financially or in the provision of services and facilities. Photographs will be available on our Santa Fun Run website shortly. (See colour pages for photos) Santa was very busy again visiting Meriden, Millisons Wood, Hampton and Fillongley. The joy to be seen on children’s faces when meeting Santa was uplifting for all.

Thanks to everyone’s help we were able to raise some £4000 for local Charities.

Lord and Lady Aylesford are opening their Gardens for The National Garden Scheme on May 7th at 2.30pm - 5pm Admission £5, children free

Packington Hall Meriden CV7 7HF (CV7 7HE) for satnav (off A45)

Forthcoming events include our Charity Golf Day at Maxstoke Park Golf Club on 8th May and The Megaride on 25th June

Best wishes for 2017 Meriden Rotary Club

Maxstoke and Packington W.I. will be selling homemade cakes and cups of Tea (not included in admission fee)

Be together spa package 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

Includes a 60 minute full body massage per person then enjoy time together with strawberries and fizz for just £100 PP. Upgrade your package for £15 to enjoy full use of the spa and fitness facilities.

Robes, towels and slippers will be provided plus 20% off any additional spa treatments and 15% discount on beauty retail. Valid until 30th May 2017 For more information or to book call 01676 526149 and quote MMV17CV/ • Free Weights Gym /Fitness Suite • 18m Indoor Heated Swimming Pool • Spa Bath, Sauna & Steam Room • Studio timetable • 2 Floodlit Outdoor Tennis Courts • Table Tennis

Contact - Nina 07971 945 242 solihull@babysensory.co.uk Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel and Country Club Maxstoke Lane,

Meriden, CV7 7HR 01676 526149 Terms and conditions apply, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Treatment to be picked from an advertised list

www.petstay.net 07940 146 063

charlotte@petstay.net 01789 608 021

Heart of England Cricket Club Following the success of the Saturday Xl and their subsequent promotion to division 8 of the Warwickshire Cricket League the team have now joined with Leamington Khalsa Cricket Club. The amalgamation was necessary following the decision by the Warwickshire Cricket League to not allow any club to play on an artificial wicket in a division higher than10. This decision has affected a number of clubs whose pitches are not of a certain standard.

The club will still play as Heart of England CC at Meriden in the Arden League on a Sunday and the midweek T20 league on a Tuesday.

We shall be starting our winter nets shortly and are looking forward to the season starting at the end of April.

A list of future fixtures will be displayed at the pavilion, do come along and support us.

We are always looking for players of any ability to come and join us. For further information please

email: heartofenglandcc@gmail.com and don't forget to check out our facebook page: Heart of England Cricket Club.

Meriden Play Group “Where Friends are made”

Meriden Methodist Church Hall Every Tuesday during Term Time 10am-12 Join us for a fun playtime with your child, where you can make new friends, do crafts, play with different toys, sing songs and enjoy a healthy snack (and a cup of tea or coffee.) £2 for one child + 50p for each additional child.

Call Sharon Corrigan 07811 588504, or Vanessa Florey 07876 301620 for more information

Found

Stray Cat

I have a stray Black Cat that has been hanging around between my garden and a neighbour’s garden since the beginning of December 2016.He is a Black short haired cat. He is not wearing a collar. He is very friendly and likes fuss and is very hungry.

I have placed advertisements online on Meriden Watch etc but to no avail…but then not everyone has access to Facebook. I have taken the cat to Broad Lane Vets to see if it was microchipped but unfortunately it is not.

The Vet stated that the cat appears to be 1-2 years old….and appears in good condition…but then I have been feeding him outside since I found him.

I am unable to take the cat into my home as I have other cats and they do like their own territory. It has been very cold recently and I do worry about him. However there are plenty of dry places he can go in our gardens.

Could I ask that anyone living near to The Duck Pond on Berkswell Road and Main Road if you could speak to your neighbours also to see if it is their lost pet.

Also if this cat is not claimed…is there anyone in the village who would be willing to give him a nice warm home.

Angela O'Neil Ardenoak Berkswell Road Meriden CV7 7LB 07886189492

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

www.balsallcommon grouppractice.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

Shingles Vaccine Shingles is more common and severe in over 70yr olds and can cause post-herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain). The shingles vaccine reduces the risk of developing shingles by 38% but also reduces the severity of shingles by 55% and postherpetic neuralgic pain by 66.8%. It can be given even if you have had chicken pox or shingles before This year’s programme is for all 70-73yrs, 78 and 79 year olds (on 1st September 2016) and starts on 1st September until 31st August 2017 Eligible patients: Date of Birth – 2nd September 1945 – 1st September 1946 (70yrs) 2nd September 1944 – 1st September 1945 (71yrs) 2nd September 1943 – 1st September 1944 (72yrs) 2nd September 1942 – 1st September 1943 (73yrs) 2nd September 1937 – 1st September 1938 (78yrs) 2nd September 1936 - 1st September 1937 (79yrs) Zostavax is a LIVE vaccine. It cannot be given to: • Patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy including high- dose corticosteroids • True EGG Allergy * Active or untreated TB • Hypersensitivity to vaccine components - including Neomycin and Gelatin This vaccine CAN be administered to patients on low-dose Methotrexate <0.4mg/kg/week, Low-dose Azathioprine <3.0mg/kg/day Zostavax, influenza and pneumococcal vaccines can be given simultaneously.

Designated shingles clinics will be available or book your appointment with the nurse

Coventry Breathe Easy For more information please ring Janet on 02476 460081 or Cynthia 02476 440316 A support group for all those affected by a lung condition, including friends, family and carers.

Meets on the 2nd Friday of every month.

2 – 4 pm, Eadon Hall, Central Hall, Methodist Church Warwick Lane, Coventry, CV1 2HA, except in the winter months when we meet for a coffee at Conroy’s Friday l0th March Louise Stonehewer – Breathing control and exercises Friday l4th April

NO MEETING – Good Friday

Friday 12th May Wiltshire Farms Foods – Sampling and questions

Pneumococcal Vaccine Pneumonia is spread in the air, by droplets (ie.sneezing/coughing) and by touching surfaces where the bacteria have landed The Pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for all people aged 65 yrs old and above or for 2yrs -65yrs in an at-risk group (see flu at-risk criteria) and protects against 23 strains of pneumonia which can be a serious or even life threatening illness.

This is a one off injection for most people (some certain medical conditions may require boosters) An appointment for this vaccine can be booked in the flu season and is safe to administer at the same time as the flu or shingles vaccine

Experienced Van And Driver Hire For private or commercial use Local or National delivery or collections Vans and drop side vehicle available

Please call Peter 07768350933 Peterj.ellis6@gmail.com

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

Around Meriden Green Part 1 ‘The Wood Yard’ [[[[[[[Kinwaldsey, William son of Gerard (possibly Geoffrey’s brother elsewhere called ‘ Gilmyn’), Hill When I was a school girl, I liked nothing better than to walk around the Wood Yard onRichard a the Mason, Nicolasevening Godyng and many others. imagine them all often crowding listening, all of 700 years ago. mild spring or summer talking to the Iresidents who satround in their gardens.

I was

intrigued by its name but no one had a definite answer when it was first known as the Wood Yard.

Doreen Agutter.

Nowadays there is little evidence such a place existed so let me explain where it was. It covered a triangular area between Birmingham Road and Maxstoke Lane stretching back to the Firs, in my day divided into plots by winding paths with a dozen or so dwellings, only 4 of which now remain.

Originally the main road had passed through this site at Heath End. As the road left the village it followed what is now the hedge line at the rear of Forest Ground dividing Meriden and Gt Packington parishes. You can see its alignment if you look at this boundary today. Near the Firs reminding us of grim former days stood a gallows probably shared by the two settlements. A field name remembered by villagers in my childhood was the ‘Galley Irons’ its meaning forgotten. It was a corruption of Gallows’ Hyrne (Corner). In Gt Packington on the opposite side of the track was the Gallows’ Field In 1962, I attended with others a meeting of the Meriden Rural District Council in Coleshill in a futile attempt to prevent the demolition of this quaint corner of the village but it was ripe for redevelopment.

This was happening up and down the country. A copy of an Architectural Report I still own indicated something of the Wood Yard’s history and made the case for retention quoting government statistics with 460,000 new houses required in the central Midlands, 320,00 in Greater Birmingham alone so why not renovate older dwellings?

The oldest building facing onto Maxstoke Lane began life as a timber -framed hall and solar house on a sandstone base. I have found a deed c.1450 that may apply to it when sold by William Kent with nearby land in the Old Worthing. Doreen Agutter Rose cottage (1640) on the left and on the right an old barn converted into cottages in the Wood Yard

LITTLE ANGELS PARENT

AND TODDLER GROUP Please come along and join in the Fun and Activities with other children aged 0 to 5 years, term time only.

Our Sessions are: Wednesday and Friday 9.30am - 11.30am Meriden Sports Pavilion (Next to the Park) Thursday 9.30am - 11.30am Jubilee Community Centre (Balsall Common) Admission is £3.50 for 1 Adult & 1 Child + 50p for Additional Child Includes a drink and toast.

Call Rachel Platt 07812 127772 for more information.

PC Technical Services Tile Hill Lane Coventry

Home Computer Repairs Upgrading & Problem Solving

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

Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA Another landmark lost My mother’s funeral was held on the day after Christmas, eight years ago, and a couple of days later my sister, my brother and I were sitting on a hard wooden bench at the Berlin depot, waiting for the train that would take him, station by station, town by town, on the first leg of his trip back to California.

Everything then was much as we all remembered it: the rough wooden floors of the waiting room; the schoolhouse lamps hanging by chains from the tin ceiling; the stationmaster’s booth, covered in who knows how many coats of green or brown enamel, with a small window marked “TICKETS.” Years earlier, the steam radiators would have been hissing and banging on such a cold winter day, but the old boiler had long since given up the ghost.

For many of us locals, the Berlin train station had been our first link to New York and the wider world. Kids would go off to school by train and sometimes, around the holidays, there’d be standing room only. On certain trains there were even smoking cars. Some guy would sell dry, turkey sandwiches — “SAMMICHES!” — and the conductors would yell “ber-LIN!” instead of “BER-lin.”

Just about everybody who grew up in town must have memories of the old station, happy or sad. But right now they’re sad, because the place burned down on Dec. 21, after 116 years of service and just a couple of months into a $2.5 `m. million renovation. It hurts.

Memories? Well, there was the time when the Mitchell family, who had moved to town from England in the 1960s, were seeing a visitor off, back to the old country. They were all standing in the waiting room when a big flake of custard-colored paint from the long-neglected ceiling came down on someone’s head. That was during the many decades when the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad Co. always seemed to be on the brink of bankruptcy and never seemed to be doing any maintenance work.

The next part of the Mitchell story sounds like something out of a Marx Brothers movie, but supposedly one of them asked a question at the “TICKETS” window and was told to go around to the “INFORMATION” window (formerly the “TELEGRAPH” window), which he did, whereupon the same railroad guy turned around and said, “May I help you?”

And I remember that the depot had one of the last pay phones in town. And clean bathrooms. And, once upon a time, baggage carts on the platform and signs for the Railway Express Agency.

I also remember that for a long time there was a placard that said: “Click Along With Us … and Train Yourself to Relax.” But it wasn’t some glossy ad from corporate headquarters; this sign had been hand-crafted, with marking-pen letters and faint but visible pencil lines. It was a charming, Mom & Pop touch, wordplay and all, for a branch office of a large but failing corporation.

Now the building, or what’s left of it, is owned by Amtrak. A shiny new station has already been built, a clone of the ones in Meriden and Wallingford, so they’ll probably just bulldoze the ruins for more parking.

You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone.

The Berlin Station as it was

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

CAT MINDER I am offering a service that will stop the

worry of putting your cat/s into a kennel while you are away.

The service I provide will include • Feeding/changing water • Clean and change litter trays/accidents • Spend time fussing your cat/s • Any other needs your cat/s may have.

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

If you are interested in this service please contact me

Gail on 07913 872280 or email gail.dichiara@gmail.com and I will come and meet you and your cat/s.

Reference available, security checked/fully insured.

.

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

“You

Meriden Floral Society Meetings are held at Meriden Village Hall 7. 30 – 9.30pm approx On the 3rd Monday of every month

Come on Ladies if you have been thinking of joining our Flower Club now is the right time. Annual Fees are due at our March Meeting. We have kept the Fees the same as last year i e £27.00 or you can pay £5.00 at each meeting you attend.

20th March

Variations on a Theme Judi Cripps

10th April

Memories Lucy Allan

15th May

Nature’s Song Lee Berill

must be kidding”

A man walks into a pet shop and says to the owner.

"Ok I want to buy a pet, but I don't want a boring normal pet, no cats, or dogs or budgies I want something different." The pet shop owner informs him that he has a talking centipede. "Really?" says the man "How much?" The owner informs him that the talking centipede is £50. Happy with the unusual offering the man pays the money and takes his new pet home.

On getting home he lays the match box with the centipede in it on the table, opens it and says, "Hello Mr Centipede, fancy going to the pub for a few drinks?"

The centipede says nothing. Figuring it must be tired from the journey he decides to leave it for an hour and try again later. An hour later he opens the match box and says "Hello Mr Centipede, fancy going to the pub for a few drinks?" The centipede again says nothing.

Starting to get suspicious the man decides he will give it one more hour, and if the centipede doesn't talk he will take it back to the shop for a refund. An hour later the man opens the match box and says "Hello Mr Centipede, fancy going to the pub for a few drinks?"

The centipede says "I heard you the first time stupid!

I'm putting my shoes on.”

New members are always welcome For more information please contact

Mo Reynolds 01676 521457

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

Out and About this spring Draycote Water near Dunchurch Warwickshire Draycote Water is near the village of Dunchurch in the county of Warwickshire. It is named after the nearby hamlet of Draycote. There is a flat five mile road surrounding the reservoir which is ideal for a leisurely stroll, run or cycle. Take in the stunning view from the top of Hensborough Hill and then follow the footpath down to the country park where you will find plenty of room for outdoor games, picnics and barbeques.

Boasting sailing, fishing and bird watching clubs, the site is a very popular destination for a family day out in Warwickshire.

The reservoir was built to meet the ever increasing demand for water from south and east Warwickshire. It was decided that this was an ideal place for the reservoir as the land was low lying and had a series of 5 small hills and a ridge which was linked together by 6 dams; it is also in close proximity to the river.

Hot food is served in the restaurant in the Visitor Centre until 2.30pm and light snacks are served until 4.00pm. Please call the Visitor Centre on 01788 815274 for more information.

There are two sets of toilets, one in the country park and the other located at the bottom of the visitor centre; both include disabled facilities.

Please note dogs are not allowed around the reservoir but they can be taken into the country park.

Draycote Water is accessible to all, with a smooth surfaced path that is suitable for pushchair and wheelchair access.

Disabled parking is available in the top car park.

Please call the Visitor Centre on 01788 815274 for more information.

Boulton Would Be Proud” Silver Talk - A Glittering Stroll Down AOB's Memory Lane “Boulton Would Be Proud” provides an overview of the long history of theAssay Office, Birmingham since it was founded as a result of Matthew Boulton’s efforts in 1773. The talk will take a glimpse back into the early history of the Assay Office, the reasons Boulton fought so hard for it and the factors which have driven its growth and survival over the past 243 years.

The main focus will be on the last two decades and the changing market and landscape which have required the Assay office to diversify, reinventing itself as the Anchor Cert Group in a branded new building, within the Jewellery Quarter.

The Assay office is the last remaining enterprise founded by Boulton and he would indeed be proud of the continuing passion, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.

The talk will be delivered by the director Marion Wilson and visitors will be able to browse the private silver Collection after the Talk.

To book call Kelly Fisher on 0121 794 1320 most talks are for parties of 30 or more, however individuals can book on either Wednesday 3rd May at 2.00pm or Thursday 22nd June at 10.30 am. Cost £17.50

Bookable Easter at Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House Friday 14th– Monday 17th April You’ll need to pre-book your tickets this Easter at Baddesley Clinton and Packwood. This will make your visit more relaxed and enjoyable and you’ll be helping us conserve the places you love.

To book please call the number below or visit the web site

0344 249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/baddesley or packwood

SAVE THE CHILDREN WARWICKSHIRE WALKS Sunday April 23rd 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

Out and About this spring Draycote Water near Dunchurch Warwickshire Draycote Water is near the village of Dunchurch in the county of Warwickshire. It is named after the nearby hamlet of Draycote. There is a flat five mile road surrounding the reservoir which is ideal for a leisurely stroll, run or cycle. Take in the stunning view from the top of Hensborough Hill and then follow the footpath down to the country park where you will find plenty of room for outdoor games, picnics and barbeques.

Boasting sailing, fishing and bird watching clubs, the site is a very popular destination for a family day out in Warwickshire.

The reservoir was built to meet the ever increasing demand for water from south and east Warwickshire. It was decided that this was an ideal place for the reservoir as the land was low lying and had a series of 5 small hills and a ridge which was linked together by 6 dams; it is also in close proximity to the river.

Hot food is served in the restaurant in the Visitor Centre until 2.30pm and light snacks are served until 4.00pm. Please call the Visitor Centre on 01788 815274 for more information.

There are two sets of toilets, one in the country park and the other located at the bottom of the visitor centre; both include disabled facilities.

Please note dogs are not allowed around the reservoir but they can be taken into the country park.

Draycote Water is accessible to all, with a smooth surfaced path that is suitable for pushchair and wheelchair access.

Disabled parking is available in the top car park.

Please call the Visitor Centre on 01788 815274 for more information.

Boulton Would Be Proud” Silver Talk - A Glittering Stroll Down AOB's Memory Lane “Boulton Would Be Proud” provides an overview of the long history of theAssay Office, Birmingham since it was founded as a result of Matthew Boulton’s efforts in 1773. The talk will take a glimpse back into the early history of the Assay Office, the reasons Boulton fought so hard for it and the factors which have driven its growth and survival over the past 243 years.

The main focus will be on the last two decades and the changing market and landscape which have required the Assay office to diversify, reinventing itself as the Anchor Cert Group in a branded new building, within the Jewellery Quarter.

The Assay office is the last remaining enterprise founded by Boulton and he would indeed be proud of the continuing passion, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.

The talk will be delivered by the director Marion Wilson and visitors will be able to browse the private silver Collection after the Talk.

To book call Kelly Fisher on 0121 794 1320 most talks are for parties of 30 or more, however individuals can book on either Wednesday 3rd May at 2.00pm or Thursday 22nd June at 10.30 am. Cost £17.50

Bookable Easter at Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House Friday 14th– Monday 17th April You’ll need to pre-book your tickets this Easter at Baddesley Clinton and Packwood. This will make your visit more relaxed and enjoyable and you’ll be helping us conserve the places you love.

To book please call the number below or visit the web site

0344 249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/baddesley or packwood

SAVE THE CHILDREN WARWICKSHIRE WALKS Sunday April 23rd 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

Dates for hoisting the flag on Meriden Green

Refuse Collection Information The green bins will be emptied again during the week beginning Monday April 3rd .

10th March Birthday of the Earl of Wessex 13th March Commonwealth day

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

21st April Birthday of her Majesty the Queen

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

23rd April St George’s Day (St George’s Flag) 9th May Europe Day

Last admission 15 minutes before closing time

21st May Cyclists Memorial Service

Sunday March 26th 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 Useful Village Phone Numbers Meriden Primary School Meriden Library Meriden Surgery Lloyds Chemist St. Laurence Church Meriden Methodist Church Meriden Christian Fellowship

Parish Council Meriden Sports Park bookings

mpcbookings@btinternet.com Solihull M B C Solihull District Councillors

Mrs L. Winkler

Rev Lynda Lilley Rev Jane Braund Pstr. Kevin Hunt Barbara Bland (Mondays & Thursdays only) Jon Barber

01676 522488 01676 522717 01676 522252 01676 522722 01676 522825 01676 533737 07970 552667 01676 522474 07576 311945

Member of Parliament Meriden Scout Group Post Office Rural Police Sector

Ken Allsopp David Bell Tony Dicicco Caroline Spelman Gerry Russell Sue Harper Sgt Mick Lloyd

0121 704 6000 01676 522301 01676 248651 07780438290 0121 711 7029 01676 522666 01676 522230 101 Non -emergency

Village Hall Bookings

Valerie Martin

01676 522963

Reminder! Deadline date for the summer 2017 issue: Monday May 1st Out by 1stJune.

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

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