Meriden Mag Winter 2020
Julie Hyde
Wishing All Our Readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year
‘Out of adversity comes opportunity.’ Benjamin Franklin. Since March 2020, we have been presented with many challenges at school. We’ve had to quickly adapt to both maintain the delivery of education to our children as well as support their wider development when at such a young stage in their academic years. Our teachers and parents have worked tirelessly to achieve this, but it wouldn’t have been possible without a digital education platform that allows the children to continue their learning while at home when necessary. Due to the Covid restrictions, staff, parents and pupils have all been playing their part in embracing all things technological! The children in particular have been incredible in embracing the changes in school, showing great resilience and adaptation to the new ways we have had to introduce. A huge success has been the use of Microsoft Teams to teach remotely. Not only does it allow us to keep in touch with our children if they have to stay off school, we can set assignments that are then marked and returned to the children each day. Parents have also had to learn quickly and have been very supportive of this way of teaching too, feeling that the use of MS Teams help to maintain a connection and feel like school is carrying on. Daily contact has proved to be really beneficial socially and emotionally as well as ensuring that children continue to learn and feel engaged with school work. As we are currently unable to have whole school collective worship in our hall, each class joins as one each morning to partake in ‘zoom assemblies’. With one click, the whole school can join along with parents during our Friday celebrations. Teachers, along with Rev. Lynda and the ‘Opening the Book’ team lead the children in pausing and reflecting at the beginning of each day. Our focus this half term has been on the story of Joseph and learning more about what it means to be clothed in God’s wardrobe for us. Parents’ evening this term has also had to run slightly differently. Teachers again held individual meetings over the wonders of technology and we thank all those parents who joined us over ‘Teams’. We were still able to meet face to face, even if it wasn’t across a school table in the hall. Feedback from parents has been very positive, with many stating they preferred it as they didn’t have to worry about getting babysitters which actually made life easier! We will be embracing the things we have learned over these months, such as offering more access by streaming assemblies to those at home or giving more virtual appointments to help those who work.
Welcome Our New Head Boy and Girl We welcomed the start of a new school year with our new head boy, Alfie, and head girl, Grace. Although their job has to be slightly different this year due to the required way of working in school, we are proud that they are wonderful ambassadors for the school. Here they are, introducing our assemblies each morning, but via Zoom.
Reverend Lynda We said a very sad farewell to Reverend Lynda Lilley at the end of October. She has been our wonderful Vicar for 6 years. We have always had strong links with St Laurence Church in Meriden and she has been a close part of our school team. Through her teachings from the bible, we have all learned how to uphold our Christian values and this resonates through the school and all the children. We wish her every success in her new role in South Warwickshire.
Safety Seymour Visit to Year 2 In October, Year 2 had a session with Safety Seymour, who taught the children all about carbon monoxide (CO), its dangers and how to keep themselves and their homes safe. They also had remembered their previous learning on fire safety and linked it with their new learning. Amazing! The children learned a lot and were commended for their outstanding behaviour during the session too! The lesson was fun and I learned about CO - Max
I learned that if you have CO in your home, you call 0800 111 999 - Orson
New Website Launch The school website has been updated to reflect our wonderful school so please do take a look! From the home page you can also access our Twitter page which gives a picture of the school curriculum and the experiences our children have, from FS1 through to year 6. Our YouTube page is linked from here too. Whether you have family who attend our school or not, you are all part of our Meriden School community so please do take a peek! www.meridenceprimaryschool.co.uk @meridenprimary
Meriden Lions Under 14 The Under 14’s have had some new players join the team and they are all settling in well and the rest of the team have made them very welcome. The team is getting more competitive each week and the team spirit is excellent. Since the restart following the Summer lockdown, they have played 7, won 1, drawn 1 and have lost 5. The defeats don’t really tell the whole story and there is no doubt that the results will reflect the performances very soon.
The first season for Meriden Lions has been going well and all the players are enjoying their football. All three teams have new players that have joined this season and they have settled in well and all players, both new and old, are enjoying playing together and making new friends. The Summer training at the Sports Park and the School ended at the start of October as the nights had begun to draw in and we have moved training to the Power League and Hereward College training under floodlights
Meriden Lions Under 12 The U12’s enjoyed having a special guest at one of their training sessions earlier this season in October. A surprise visit was made by Coventry City Football Club no 9 Max Biamou. Max was a brilliant example to the boys and got stuck in to training. Many thanks Max!
Meriden Lions U14 with Manager Rich and assistant Matt. The team are currently sitting 5th in the U12 Coventry & Warwickshire Youth league division C and the team have put in some really good performances. The Boys have scored 21 goals shared between 8 different goal scorers and conceded 18 goals so far this season. They are a team of varying ability but have a very strong team ethic with the overall aim of long-term player development for every player in the squad. The team is run by Bryn & Andy who are both FA qualified coaches. The U12s record so far this season is P8 W3 D3 L2
Max Biamou joining in training with our U12’s at the Sports Park. Meriden Lions Under 9 Our youngest team have really enjoyed the start to their season and they are developing their football knowledge with each training session and game. They are being coached to play an expansive style of play with pass and move at the heart of out coaching ethos. We have welcomed lots of teams from across Coventry and Warwickshire to our village and the games has been played in the right spirit with a mixed bag of results. Results at this age group are not important and the focus is on improving players and helping make them the best footballers they can be. The performances have generally been really good and they have been very entertaining to all spectators.
U9’s sporting their poppies in remembrance to the fallen at our last game due to lockdown.
For Formore moreinformation informationon onour ourcommunity communityfootball footballclub, club,please pleasecontact contactus usat atMeridenLionsFC@outlook.com MeridenLionsFC@outlook.com
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Season’s Greetings from Sue, Carol and Meriden Committee. Contact numbers Sue 01676 522540 Carol 01676 522888 What a difference a year makes! This time last year we were reporting on very successful autumn fundraisers that had raised lots of money and were looking forward to more jolly events during the run up to Christmas. Happy memories! This year, of course, is very different and our chosen charity, like many others, is facing a big fall in revenue which will delay research and the development of treatments that will help diagnose and defeat debilitating or deadly cancers. We have managed to raise some funds for CRUK over the last few months through plant sales, various donations, Christmas card and diary sales. The Christmas cards alone have raised over £350, and one committee member also volunteered for “Sober October” (much to the chagrin of gin manufacturers worldwide!) and through generous sponsorship, her heroic efforts have raised over £ 1648.00. We would like to thank everyone who has purchased, donated or sponsored us. Your support is very much appreciated. There may still be some Christmas cards and diaries left by the time you read this edition of the Meriden Mag (ring Sue to check on stock availability) but otherwise why not visit the online Christmas shop at cancerresearchuk.org/christmas. The shop has numerous cards and a wonderful selection of festive gifts with all proceeds going towards their life-saving research. Whilst looking forward to 2021 may be tempting fate, we have pencilled into our new Cancer Research diaries a couple of events for later in the year – ever the optimists! So, ‘Meriden Open Gardens’ is in for July and next year’s ‘In the Pink’ event has already been booked with Lesley and The Manor for 17th October. Further details will appear in future editions of the Mag. Whilst this will probably turn out to be a very different Christmas for all of us and socialising might be significantly curtailed, we wish you well in maintaining your efforts to keep safe, thereby helping others to remain safe in and around Meriden. To paraphrase one of our charity’s favourite slogans “Together, we will beat Covid (cancer) sooner”. Sue, Carol and the committee look forward to arranging more events to entertain you all in the future and take this opportunity to wish you all Seasons Greetings. If you would like to become involved in any of our fundraising activities Sue and Carol would love to hear from you.
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Rev. Lynda Lilley, Minister at Meriden 2015 to 2020. Sometime in 2013, when Rev. Kate Massey (Curate for 2 years in Meriden) had a weekend away, she arranged for a friend to take our Sunday service. The bustling blonde figure of Rev. Lynda Edwards approached the church that morning, and lead a service in an encouraging and uplifting style, which was our introduction to her, and her first visit to our funny old St. Laurence Church. She was then a curate at All Saints, Allesley, so she hadn’t had far to come. As Kate Massey’s time came to an end Lynda came forward to replace her, first as a curate as the final part of her training, and from 2017 as our fully-fledged Priest-in-Charge of the parish. Lynda felt called to rural ministry and that Meriden would be the ideal Parish for her. It was a time of many changes in her life, moving to a new Parish, moving into a new house in Meriden, and marrying a new man – Mark Lilley. She was soon proved right in her calling and quite rapidly found that her talents suited the need for a kind, outgoing, perhaps slightly motherly figure, just kind of being the love of God in the village. Each person will have their own memories of her time here. I, of course, have worked closely with her in keeping our Church going, but she has supported and worked in many areas of village life. You may have seen her at the school where she has been regularly and frequently present, offering support or leading an assembly. Or supporting village events, including sitting as a target for wet sponges at Funday-Sunday on the Green. Lynda gave time as a school Governor, and worked to make the Churches’ ‘All together Café’ a success. In this very peculiar year of 2020, she was instrumental in spearheading the work with the Parish Council to organise a local help service for isolated people during the lock-down. I have probably forgotten several important things that should be mentioned, but the big picture is that Lynda Lilley put her heart into pastoral work here in Meriden, and we all have a lot to say ‘Thank You’ for. Lynda and her husband Mark quickly became known and noticeable figures in the community, a source of comfort and encouragement for all. They will be greatly missed. I am sure all will join me in wishing them well in their new Parish (the ‘Mid-Fosse’ group of parishes), living in Lighthorne. May the love, blessing, and peace of God go with you, Lynda. Jonathan Douglas.
We at the Meriden Mag would like to add our thanks to Lynda for the beautiful and informative page of St. Laurence News she produced for us each issue.
St Laurence Church Services Under the current Corona virus regulations, services at St Laurence Church, have been suspended. During this time daily services from Coventry Cathedral can be accessed via their website www.coventrycathedral.org.uk The Daily Hope phone line on 0800 804 8044 provides music, reflection, prayers and full worship services. Information regarding future services at St Laurence Church, will be posted on our website and Facebook page. We hope that it will not be too long before services can take place in the Church. As we will be in a time of vacancy, we look forward to welcoming visiting clergy to lead our worship.
For more information or to book your child’s place please contact us at info@littleangelsgroup.co.uk or 07394 984233
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Used Stamps A charity called Medical Missionary News would be very grateful to receive the used stamps off your envelopes. Please leave at least 1” all around when cutting them. Please hand them in at Lloyds Chemist on the Green. The money raised will be used to buy medical supplies for war-torn countries overseas. Thank You.
Minister Rev Jane Braund Tel: 01676 Ps 533737 If you are around on the second Friday of every month between 2 and 4 it would be lovely ly to t meet Please phone to arrange you over a cup of coffee or tea at the Pavilion. In Meriden marriages, baptisms and funerals Keep a look out for Services: Greetings from Meriden Methodist Church to you all Sunday 10:30am. Greetings from the Methodist Church In many ways it doesn't seem possible that we have come to the end of another year, yet 2020 is nearly over. Perhaps there is some relief that it has come to an end as it has been a year like no other, but as well as the difficulties there have been many things to rejoice in. The clapping of the key workers, the community spirit that saw so many people join together to help and support others, the kind acts of strangers, and other things that have happened throughout the year to bring encouragement and hope. As we enter the winter months now, the darker nights draw in and we have been in another lockdown - possibly still are. Yet at a time when the world seems so dark and with many feeling hopeless, there is the eternal promise and hope of Jesus, the Light of the World. While Christmas might not be able to be held in the same way this year as in past years, the message of Jesus is unchanging - just as he himself is unchanging. Jesus is the Light of the world and his light shines in the dark and whatever happens it cannot be put out. Jesus entered into a dark world. He and his family knew poverty, knew what it was to be refugees and homeless. He knew what it was to feel alone at times and to mourn for lost loved ones. Yet then, just as now, Jesus is a light that can never be put out and continues to shine in the darkest places in our lives, in the life of our community and in our nation, even to the whole world. So, although Christmas might not be the same this year the message of the Good News of Jesus remains the same and it is a message of hope. As we face an uncertain future, not clear as to what is going to be happening, the message of Jesus and his love for each one of us remains the same. He is the gift to the whole world, to each one of us and I would encourage each one of us to take hold of that gift, that the light might come and shine in each of our lives. Sadly, we cannot hold Carols on the Green this year, but we are hoping to hold a Christmas Carol Service at the Methodist Church 4.00pm on Sunday 20th December and then a Churches Together Christmas Day service at 10 am with limited numbers at both of these services. If you wish to come and join with us to hear more about this precious gift called Jesus, or should you have a prayer request, please don't hesitate to contact me.
May you know the peace and hope that Jesus brings With love, Jane
The Methodist Church Hall is available for hire. Please contact Alan Gabbitas on 01676 522148
. Saturday 23rd January - “Military Wives” (12A) Inspired by the global phenomenon of Military Wives Choirs, the film celebrates the real-life story of a band of misfit women who, desperate to lift their spirits, form a choir on their military base whilst their partners are serving in Afghanistan. Starring Kirsten Thomas and Sharon Horgan, it is a gentle “feel-good” movie which includes music, comedy and pathos in equal amounts: chosen specially to lift the spirits and to celebrate the return of Meriden’s much-missed screenings.
Saturday 20th February - “Knives Out” (12A) “Knives Out” stars Daniel Craig, Jamie Lee Curtis and Dan Johnson with a brief dramatic appearance from Christopher Plummer. The film is an energetic, slightly satirical take on a dusty Agatha Christie-style murder mystery. Set in a gothic pile in New England, the plot follows the familiar formula of blood on the carpet, creaking floorboards, a gentleman sleuth and a social mix of characters portraying the usual and unusual suspects. In addition, there is creepy well-shot camera work and atmospheric music to add to the tension. A gentle satire on this much-loved genre, the film is a must for all whodunit fans.
IMPORTANT The Village Hall Committee has ensured the premises are “Covid Safe” and the Big Picture Show team will ensure that the seating arrangements for the screenings are in line with current Government social distancing requirements. As a result, numbers will be restricted but, if demand is sufficient, we will be able to arrange two separate screenings (afternoon and evening) on the same day. Tickets (£5) must be booked and paid for in advance with all names and details of “Family Bubbles” supplied. Please register your interest in attending and supply details of your ticket requirements by sending an email to chriscopper42@me.com or telephoning 01676 522645 or 07721 342127. We will then contact you to secure your reservation and to explain payment details. Sorry this is complicated but we feel sure everyone understands the reason why... So…. let’s “Get the Show Back on the Road”. We have missed you all!
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Balsall Common U3A Our monthly Core Meetings have been cancelled until the end of the year but our next meeting will be announced as soon as possible. Prospective members are welcome to attend. Please see our website www.balsallcommonu3a.org for contact details and membership application form.
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Meriden United Charities Charities in Meriden have existed for many years; the earliest was before 1551 and always with the same purpose, to assist people in need. Initially the Charities helped with items such as bread, fuel, teaching poor girls to read and preaching sermons at the Parish Church. Nine individual charities are now grouped together and registered with the Charity Commission as Meriden United Charities. Income from the investments is limited and is managed by 9 local trustees. If you would like to make an application for funding either for yourself or someone you know, please consider the purposes of the Charities are to assist residents who live within the parish of Meriden and who are in need.
Applications can be made to: The Clerk to the Trustees, Meriden United Charities and emailed to meridenunitedcharities@gmail.com What sort of sentence would you get if you broke the laws of gravity? A suspended one!!!
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Prices start from £6.50 for a small fruit loaf cake. Over 65’s, who live locally, 20% off any cake if you quote Meriden Mag.
The Orme School of Dancing Meriden Branch Methodist Church Hall Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Gymnastic, Tel: Tel:02476 02476467331 467331 Contemporary Dance and Musical Theatre. www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk email: ormedance@gmail.com email:ormedance@gmail.com aged 2 ½ years upwards
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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!!!
“Courage is grace under pressure” Earnest Hemingway This Àrst term of the year has certainly been unique and there have been many challenges we have all had to take on board. School life continues though and our Principal is impressed with our community and how well our children have dealt with uncertainty. “It has been an eventful and very positive eight weeks. My overall impression is how brilliant our parent/carers, children, staff and governors have been,” said Principal Miss Hughes-Williams. “All have risen to high levels of daily change and uncertainty together and navigated a safe and
focused return to classroom based learning. Our curriculum offer remains broad which is essential to a balanced educational experience. Our students are adapting well to new habits and routines that we have introduced which include reorganising our tutor groups and timetables, how to move around the school safely and revising our CALM Behaviour policy. Other changes have meant alterations to the structure of the day with staggered break and lunch times to ensure that only two year groups
at a time enjoy their social times in different demarcated areas to help keep students safe. Students and staff are wearing masks too when moving about the buildings. To all our community Miss Hughes-Williams said: “The challenges of the present are immense and never has there been a time when courage, kindness and grace under pressure were more required or appreciated. Thank you to everyone for all your care and support as we continue to work closely together to ensure the very best for our children.”
You’re Listening To... Prefects at Heart of England have been making good use of our school radio facilities this term with some special shows for the new Year 7 students. Two groups of prefects representing our four Houses prepared and rehearsed their scripts and each live broadcast went out at 9am during tutor times. The Àrst show was presented by Phoenix and Voyager prefects on Friday with the following show for Apollo and Pioneer going out the following Monday. The programmes touched on their experiences at Heart of England and the importance of our Houses; Apollo, Phoenix, Pioneer and Voyager. “We want to welcome the Year 7s and to tell them a bit about our experiences at Heart of England, and why our Houses are important to us,” said one of the Prefect presenters. Like all great enterprises, the broadcasts were a culmination of the efforts of almost 40 students who related their own experiences which were included
in the show. They spoke about how supportive and diverse our learning community is and that it is “a close-knit community, underpinned by our core values of honesty, kindness, determination, courage, and humour.” On what Heart of England means to them, one of the contributors said that it is: “a supportive community for learning and improving skills with the help and support of friends, teachers and classmates.” For others is was that the House system created a community within school which was motivational and fun! The shows were conÀdently presented by Liam, Tadgh, Alexanne, Aimee, Manizeh, Lilijana, Mia, Sophia, Gabriella, Hannah and Jennifer and the effort was co-ordinated by Miss Roberts. “Our Prefects showed great courage and creativity welcoming our new year 7s to the school through the radio and it was fantastic to hear how proud they were of all of their achievements and how determined they are to meet their goals,” said one of the Lead House Tutors.
C w h H f E l @H E_S h l www.f b k. m/H fE l www.h - l . . k
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Meriden Women’s Institute 1918 - 2020 Contact Joan Russell Tel. 01676 522666 This year we have been busy making bags for children having treatment for cancer. To encourage them, they are given beads which they can store in these bags. Many thanks to Sam Bain, Sue Fuller and Hilda Pointon for their splendid efforts with such lovely patterned materials.
Luckily, we managed to have a very good meeting at the Village hall in September, which replaced our Annual meeting from May. Unfortunately, no further large group meetings are allowed until life becomes more ‘normal’ again, but small groups have met for walks and refreshments outside. We hope to encourage more contact via ‘Zoom’ for speakers and activities to be enjoyed and when weather permits, we’ll be walking and enjoying refreshments outside!!! Members – please watch out for emails.
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Firebird Singers Update Sadly, like all other village organisations our activities have been severely curtailed. However, with a lot of ingenuity and planning, starting in September, we managed to have a few actual rehearsals. Only about half of our members felt comfortable participating, so we split them into two teams of 15 members each and had two one-hour rehearsals with a half hour break in-between to clean the chairs and fully air the room. Every member had their temperature checked on entering the hall. We spaced the chairs 6 feet apart and sang with our face masks on, we also had the windows open so winter coats were the order of the day. We have had seven very successful weeks like this but obviously in view of the recent complete National lockdown, rehearsals stopped again. We hope to resume as soon as the guidelines allow. Despite all these obstacles I am very proud to announce we were still able to donate £6750 to various charities during our last financial year. Including a recent cheque for £1000 for Coventry Comfort Carers. We were very happy to make a donation to the new Meriden Lions Football Club. Here is just some of the equipment they have purchased. Valerie Martin 01676 522963
Balsall Common Country Market A market is held every Saturday from 10 - 11.30 am. at Balsall Common Village Hall, Station Road, CV7 7EX. We have lovely home baking, preserves, plants, seasonal vegetables, crafts and home-made cards. Hampers can be ordered and delivered countrywide
Contact 01676 523007
At the end of September President Warren, reported to our Council Meeting about the first three months of his 2020/21 Rotary year and here is an extract of what he said: Well, I have to say as we go into the 2nd quarter of the Rotary year, the last 3 months have probably been the fastest time in my job as President. We started by not knowing when we will have a proper face to face meeting. Luckily that all changed when The Windmill Village Hotel invited us to resume our weekly meetings there as opposed to the Manor which is under the same ownership, but was still under lockdown. After some discussion amongst the members it was agreed that we should accept the offer from the Windmill. In early August about 16 or so members met at the hotel, fully socially distanced, whilst we simultaneously had a Zoom meeting in order to include members who for understandable reasons were unable to attend a face to face meeting. We continued to enjoy the meetings without any business disruptions, especially when having Speakers on Zoom, so expertly organised by Secretary Jane and Treasurer Steve; so thanks to both of you. Unfortunately, Covid-19 has once again beaten us into submission and we are now again resorting to having full Zoom meetings until further notice. I, for one, must admit I really enjoyed the meetings at the Windmill and look forward to returning there as soon as it is safe to do so. You will also be aware by now that after some discussion the majority of members agreed to relocate to the Windmill and it is now our official residence. The management and staff are looking forward to our return soon. We really want to thank the Manor Hotel for looking after us so well during the last 40 years. As for future events planned, I am very pleased to report we are almost ready for the Santa Fun Run and also Santa Sleigh collections The Sleigh has had complete restoration, which is almost completed. Can I thank everyone involved in the refurbishment of the Sleigh, especially Mike Holdsworth, who in spite of being very ill was more worried about the Sleigh than getting better and I am pleased to say he is now fit and well again. On a slightly happier note, it was great to recently celebrate David and Ellen Watkins’ 70th Wedding Anniversary. Before I end my report, can I thank all the members for the efforts they are putting in however large or small to keep Meriden Rotary Club functioning. Since the start of Warren’s year, we have continued to enjoy speakers on Zoom talking about interesting and varied subjects. District Governor Tim talked to us about the challenging Rotary year ahead. We had talks about two local Rotary Charities, Shelter Bus which helps the homeless and Tackling Hunger which helps with world hunger. There was also a talk about the history of electric guitars, another in which one of our members recalled some very amusing incidents from his early working life in Europe and our Treasurer subjected himself to a “Desert Island Discs” evening. You probably saw on the news that the World Health Organisation announced that Africa was now officially declared to be Polio Free leaving only a very small area in Afghanistan and Pakistan still experiencing a small number of cases. These are difficult areas but, our world is on the verge of eradicating Polio completely as a result of the efforts of Rotary International starting this project back in the 1980’s. On a less cheerful note we have reluctantly taken the decision not to hold our Senior Citizens Party for the first time in 40 years due to Covid-19 and at the moment all the Rotary Youth Programmes are suspended at least until the New Year. To end on a brighter note, we have just been able to hold our socially distanced Annual Golf Day without any of the usual social events that accompany it. Understandably entries were down but it did make a small profit that goes towards sending disabled children from Woodlands School for the Kids Out Day event at Drayton Manor that should take place in June 2021. We have some more interesting speakers coming between now and the end of the year. Anyone that would like to join with us to hear them is welcome to make contact through our website www.meridenrotary.org.uk to request a Zoom meeting invitation. Full details of our programme including the speakers also appears on our website and below. The Rotary Club of Meriden would again like to wish everybody good health during these unusual times and hopefully a good but probably very different Christmas and New Year season. Geoff Arthur A message for the children DECEMBER 1st
Whale and Dolphin conservation
TBA
8th
The miners’ strike and me
Charles Perry
15th
Marie Curie
Jess Harris
22nd
A Christmas quiz
Roger Swindells
29th
No meeting
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY
At the time of writing this, our programme for January and February is not finalised. It looks as if we will still be meeting on Zoom every week and continue to have some interesting speakers. When the programme has been finalised, it will be on our web site, www.meridenrotary.org.uk and social media. If you would like to join us to hear any of the speakers please make contact through our web site to request the Zoom link. You will be very welcome.
We are pleased to confirm to all of you that Santa is fit and well, despite this nasty bug that is going round. He is self-isolating in his “bubble” with the elves, so it looks as if this year he will only be able to make one journey and that will be on Christmas Eve with his sleigh full of presents. He still needs to talk to you about what you would like for Christmas, so because he cannot meet you when he does his usual Sleigh visits in December, his friends in Meriden Rotary Club are going to set up a system so that you can write to Santa and they will make sure your letters get to him. Santa has suggested this can all be done on social media. So, as Christmas gets closer please watch your social media for details about how you can write to him and he will send all the girls and boys a personal reply.
Many thanks to those of you who responded to our call for help in the autumn Issue and to all those who support us. We would not still be here if it were not for you all. As a small charity, to have no visitors from December to June was devastating financially as we have no local or national government support. It was also upsetting not being able to support the families in our normal way. But our community has kept us going and we are so grateful for that. On a more positive note, HS2 contractors and supply chain have been lending a helping hand in sorting out our access track, carpark and fencing. Friends of Spencer’s Retreat This is a new volunteer group on the first Friday and last Monday of each month. Activities will involve planting, weeding and creating nice wildflower areas around the farm. It will include a tea or coffee and cake and will be run by Ali, one of our volunteers. It will cost £3 each and money will go towards tea, coffee and cake and buying items for each project. Please look out for details on our Facebook page or website. Xmas Events at Spencer’s Retreat We are ploughing ahead with our plans for COVID 19 safe Christmas events: - Santa Visit, Craft Sessions and a few other events. But this will all depend on local and national restrictions. So please keep a watch out on our Facebook page and website
Contact details: www.spencersretreat.com enquiries@spencersretreat.com 07902 439985 (Simon)
What’s next? We have lots planned for the near future with refurb of the stables providing a comfortable inside space, renewing of the natural play area, wheelchair track around the farm, small hay store and feed shed and possibility of a covered area outside the stables.
Desperate plea for donations With no Government support or visitors, our Charity farm supporting Children with special needs & disabilities is struggling to survive. This is a desperate plea to ask if you can help us. Text RETREATFIVE to 70450 to donate £5. Text RETREATTEN to 70450 to donate £10. Text RETREATFIFTEEN to 70450 to donate £15. Text RETREATTWENTY to 70450 to donate £20. Texts cost your donation amount plus one standard rate message. Thank you so much for all your support.
Animal Food Wanted If any farms, local shops, allotments or schools have any fruit, salad or veg they have left over, our farm animals would be very grateful. The animals do a great job of supporting the kids and they deserve spoiling. So, if you can help please leave your donation outside the gate to the farm. Thank You!
New - Animal Sponsorship. Great Christmas or Birthday present. You will receive 2 wooden brick size plaques with your name, message, the date, the animal you’re sponsoring and an engraved picture of the animal. One plaque is for you to keep and the other will go on our ‘Sponsors Wall’. You also get 4 pin badges, a certificate, a photocard of the animals and a monthly newsletter. Cost is £29.99 for a 12 month sponsorship. We’re looking for 2 new Trustees – Treasurer - Must have experience in accounting or bookkeeping to manage the finances, deal with the charity commission and other companies, produce financial reports etc. Funding Trustee - Ideal person will have experience in completing small and large funding applications. Please email simon.morris@thelangdaletrust.com for more information.
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Message from Saqib Bhatti MP Dear Residents This December marks a year since I was elected to represent Meriden in the House of Commons and what an eventful year it is has been. Being your Member of Parliament is my greatest honour and I try to consider the lives and feelings of my constituents in every speech I deliver and every vote I cast. The 2019 General Election saw a landslide victory for the Conservative Party and provided the Government with a strong mandate to deliver on the result of the 2016 European Union referendum. I am proud to have voted in Parliament in favour of the UK leaving the EU and at the time of writing, the negotiations are ongoing between the EU and the UK to try and reach agreeable terms for our future trading relationship. Regardless of the outcome of these negotiations, I believe we will be successful in our endeavours as a free trading sovereign nation. This is why it is more important now than ever to be an outward looking nation, as we seek to form new economic alliances and revive old friendships. I was extremely pleased to see the signing of the historic UK-Japan Free Trade Agreement in September, which set an example of what can be achieved for Britain after leaving the EU. This is the UK’s first major trade deal as an independent nation and is estimated to increase trade with Japan by £15.2 billion. UK businesses will enjoy tariff-free trade on 99% of exports to Japan and government analysis suggests that a deal with Japan will deliver a £1.5 billion boost to the UK economy. Of course, it would be impossible to reflect on 2020 without mentioning the Coronavirus — a virus which a year ago, most of us could not have fathomed. The impact of the pandemic on the health and mood of the country cannot be overstated, not to mention the devastating effect on the economy. The whole world has grappled with difficult decisions: whether to put a country into a lockdown, whether to re-open schools or whether to keep parts of the economy and society closed until the virus is under control. None of these are easy decisions and as MPs, when walking through the lobbies to vote, we have to consider the relative impact of any decision we make on the health and livelihoods of our constituents. The whole world has been affected by the Coronavirus and the global economy will inevitably be impacted by the overall cost of the virus. In England, having two national lockdowns have obviously slowed our economy, even with the help of Government interventions such as the furlough scheme. At the time of writing, the country is entering into a second lockdown and it is difficult to know what the coming months will bring. I am sure that this Christmas will be different in some way for all of us, many people have lost loved ones to the virus, others will be separated from loved ones who are shielding. This Christmas might be very lonely for some people in our community and I am so proud of all the excellent volunteer organisations in Meriden who have come together to help those in need. Thank you for all that
Remember - if you are ill, whether or not that illness is Coronavirus, please do seek help. If you need advice or know someone that does, I will do my best to help. Finally, please note my office remains open as usual and we are conducting telephone surgery appointments, so do not hesitate to get in touch. I can be reached at I hope you and your loved ones have a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy New Year. saqib.bhatti.mp@parliament.uk or 0121 711 7029
Please stay safe and stay well. Saqib Bhatti MP
631 Warwick Road Solihull B91 1AR
A Message from Councillor Diane Howell Since my last article for the Mag much of my time has been taken up with the latest draft of the Borough’s Local Plan. This Local Plan is a document whereby the Council identifies sites to build new housing through to 2036, but importantly also has policies and strategies dictating what our local area will look like in the future. Solihull has a duty to find sites to build many more new homes, not just to meet the Borough’s needs but to help meet the region’s housing need under the legal duty to cooperate. Having a Local Plan means that Solihull is in charge of its destiny and can identify where and how these new homes will be delivered. Without a Plan it means the Borough’s growth will be unmanaged and would be led by house builders and developers. During a fascinating debate at Full Council in July, all the political parties agreed that there was a need for more housing across the whole Borough, with a particular call from some for a lot more social housing (‘council houses’). These homes have to be built somewhere. It is not sufficient to just talk about how there is a housing crisis; we need action and solutions on the table to ensure that every resident has access to the housing they need. So, this is why myself and my ward colleagues Cllrs Allsopp and Dicicco, the rest of the Conservative Group and all the Independent Councillors have voted for the Local Plan to be progressed: it delivers the housing we are legally required to provide whilst maintaining the Meriden Gap. In our Ward most of the new housing allocation sites are around Balsall Common. There is one small site proposed for Meriden village and no sites proposed for Berkswell village. Balsall Common will benefit from an improved village centre and more parking at Berkswell Station; I know that many Meriden residents travel to Balsall Common to catch a train or to do shopping so I hope you will benefit from these improvements too. Finally, 2020 has not been the year any of us could have expected. The Covid-19 Pandemic has provided us all with very significant challenges. At the time of writing, Solihull has been placed under Tier 2 restrictions and we are really fearful of what will happen next with this pandemic. I know it’s very disheartening to have yet more curbs on our daily life, as well as the worry and uncertainty this brings for many local businesses. But we are all in this together and, if we all follow the Government guidance, we can defeat this virus and can contemplate normality again. Please continue to do the right thing: wash your hands, wear a face covering and keep space between yourself and others. I hope you and your family stay safe and well over the Christmas period and that 2021 will provide us all with some hope and optimism.
diane.howell@solihull.gov.uk
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The Shaftes Springe
The Shafts Springe
A member of a local walking group recently asked me about the history of the Shafts and its meaning. An area of ancient woodland about 2 kilometres NE of the village centre, it lies just beyond Eaves Green, a name that itself means ’at the edge of the wood’ with a boundary on Lodge Green Lane, formerly called ‘Shafts’ Lane. I have often been challenged about the meaning of Shafts. Many people have suggested erroneously it refers to coal mining and such assertions do appear in print. Shaft originates from the old English word ‘sceaft’ a long, straight hole in the ground. As a young girl I was told that springs of water emerged from some of these at a fault line on the East Warwickshire plateau. From one, the Horn Brook flowed down the fields to the bottom of Meriden Hill and, crossing the road, helped create Meriden Pool, the pools in Meriden Hall grounds and eventually ran across the Heath into the River Blythe near Mill Farm. A complication arises through use of the word ‘SPRING’. In the context of coppicing, there is an alternative meaning that has nothing to do with water. In coppiced woods larger trees provided timber poles 60 or more feet high used for buildings. Vast numbers of trees were also pollards with ‘lops and tops’ used for firewood or pea and bean sticks in local gardens. A row of pollards once used in this manner flanks the path leading to the south door of St Laurence’s church. When cut down near the ground, the base of trees were called stools. Distinctive cloned re-growth from these stools was named spring wood. This term is often used as an alternative phrase for coppiced woods. Remnants of the famous ‘Forest of Arden’ are still evident in North Warwickshire and Meriden is no exception. In the 1086 ‘Domesday Book’ ‘a Latin record of the economic value of each settlement, Alspath’s (the original name for the village), ‘silva’ or woodlands were one and a half leagues long and a league wide. A league, a variable measurement, is normally said to be slightly more than a mile. So maybe about half of the parish was wooded. The individual name Shafts features in early medieval records. In 1523 Elizabeth, third daughter of Thomas Boteler, Lord of Alspath received the 120 acre ‘Grove called Shafts Spring’ apart from some identified mature trees, as a major part of her dowry or marriage settlement to Ralph Brooke. The Brooke family sold its holdings in 1812. We have no medieval maps but written property boundaries identify places in relation to others, so in 1597 we find in a document defining some boundaries of Alspath Hall Estate, mention of the wood called ‘Shafte’. A bank topped by a fence or hedge around the wood formed a boundary keeping out grazing animals that might damage the developing trees. A surviving section today can be seen by a path along one side of the wood. Within the boundary the trees were subdivided into sections managed in rotation, some of short duration, others not touched for even 50 years.
From C16 onwards, Individual leases identify wood mongers who grew rich on the proceeds of this trade. By 1500, the Stones flourished near the Shafts. From 1575 to 1635, Thomas West and his son Henry living at Marlbrook Hall, Hollyberry End leased many of the surrounding woods including the Shafts. Their wills, 1618 and 1635, are full of fascinating details. Henry in his day the richest village businessman sent materials for sale as far as Rugby and Lutterworth markets. A remarkable reminder of Henry can still be seen in the parish church: the decorative lid of a Poor Man’s Box for collecting compulsory charity he donated to the village, rescued from a neighbouring farm building about 1897, seemingly carved out of a single tree trunk. The Wests were replaced by the Harpers; Robert and Humphrey. In the later C18 there was an alternative product: besoms like witches’ brooms made on a grand scale most sold in the Black Country. Birch twigs from Shafts were bound to willow from the Osier Grove. The cottages between Brailes Farm and Walsh Lane housed their manufacturer Joseph Smith by 1770 and later by descendants (I wrote ‘branch of’ originally!) of the Wests. Coppicing dwindled by the early C20 though wood was in great demand during the Great War 1914-19. I was told that much of the Shafts was cut down partly for lining trenches, partly when coal production grew in the local mines, for pit props. The Forestry Commission, created by law in August 1919, organised a vigorous campaign of replanting but often of a haphazard nature. Many deciduous trees were replaced by conifers, damaging the plant ecology. I believe the Shafts purchased by the Aylesford Estate in c 1812 are still owned by them. While compiling this article, I drove to look at the Shafts but being private it is impossible to assess its archaeology. The trees I could see seem to be older than a post Great War replanting.
Doreen Agutter
View from Lodge Green Lane – October 2020
Small Grants – a Big Help Four Meriden groups have benefited already this year from the Meriden Sports and Recreation Trust’s Small Grants Programme. In the Autumn edition of the Meriden Mag the Trust announced the re-opening of the programme and in particular encouraged groups facing the problems of being Covid compliant to seek the Trust’s help. Two organisations responded and the Trust made grants to enable both the 1st Meriden Scout Group and the Heart of England Arts Centre to meet the extra costs of restarting their activities in a safe way. The Scouts also received a grant towards new camping equipment, so they should be well equipped when lockdown restrictions are lifted. It has been a very difficult year to launch a new football club for young people, but the Meriden Lions Football Club did get underway, with the help of a grant from the Trust to purchase a line-marking machine for the club’s second playing venue – the school. Lastly, but by no means least, the Trust made a grant to enable the St. Laurence Churchyard Gardening Group to buy gardening equipment.
How could your organisation’s sporting, recreational or leisure pursuits be helped by a small grant from the Meriden Sports and Recreation Trust? For further details about the programme go to the Trust’s website at meridensrt.org.uk where there are guidance notes and an application form. Iain Roxburgh
Meriden Archers on Target Although a very strange summer, Meriden archers snatched advantage of a few competitions late in the season. After months of closure and restricted shooting, it was great to see Meriden still flying the flag around the country at Archery GB “trial” events. Sadly, the Club couldn’t host the usual competitions, so instead our archers got out and about, reaching from Woking, Wellington, Overton, Cheltenham to Castle Greasley. There were plenty of podium finishes in there too, so well done to all, particularly in light of the extra rules.
In October, a live stream from Lilleshall, home of Archery GB, saw Meriden’s Tom Hall defend his title of National Tour Champion. Tom is now firmly set on his training regime for the Olympics next year. Meriden’s younger talent is also looking bright too. Edward Gray, just 13 years old, has been training hard, breaking 7 club records over the summer. Monty Orton, 17, after just one year on the Archery GB Performance Academy has been advanced to the next level, a programme which aims to convert the most talented young athletes into senior international competitors. We wish them all luck and can’t wait to see how things progress! www.meriden-archery.org.uk
Record breaking Edward Gray
Snowman by Julie Hyde Here is a little fun painting for you to have a go at this winter season. You will need watercolour paper, watercolour paints and a pinch of salt! 1. Lightly draw the snowman and children. (If you need to, mask out the inside edges of the snowman and children but it can be done without.) 2. Background. Get a little salt ready and mix puddles of:# Red + Yellow (weak orange) # Dark Blue # Prussian Blue + a touch of Burnt Sienna (dark green) Wet all the paper all over the background with clean water and a mop brush; carefully avoid the snowman and children. While this is still wet, add in the colours, with the orangey colour at the top, then the blue and then hint of Christmas trees with the dark green. While this is still wet add a small pinch of salt (just 20 grains!). Wet the snow and then add:# Ultramarine Blue (darker Blue) # Cerulean Blue (lighter Blue) # Ultramarine Blue + Crimson Red (blue purple) Add a pinch of salt to the lower part and let it dry completely, and then rub all the masking off if you have used it. 3. Snowman. Wet the snowman’s head and body. Add the orange (very weak), blues and purples used in the background, keeping the stronger darker colours to the shadowy areas. Add some shadows to the snow on dry paper. Let it dry completely. 4. Shadows on Children. Mix a puddle of:# Ultramarine Blue + a touch of Burnt Umber (to make a Bluish Grey) With a smaller brush and on to dry paper add all the creases and folds in the clothing. Add some of this colour to the hat, gloves and boots. Let it dry completely. 5. Colours on clothing. Using whatever colours you like, paint one area at a time, flooding the area including and over the shadows with strong colour I used:# # # #
Crimson Red Orangey Red Dark Blue Light Blue
6. Hat boots and gloves, I used:-
#
Ultramarine Blue + a touch of Dark Brown (strong dark grey) 7. Broom. # Light Brown and then, when dry, a little # Dark Brown
Created by Julie Hyde
Email:jph300@hotmail.com
Copyright © 2020
‘Beating the Autumn Storm’. Iain Roxburgh Congratulations to Maureen Stinton and John Baker who were married at St. Laurence Church 26th August 2020
Laura Jayne sends her thanks for all the donations. Her pigs now have a new roof to keep them warm and dry during the winter months. You can still visit the pigs, contact her on laura.jayne8888@googlemail.com
Wonderful Sunset over Meriden Susan Georgina Edwards (Facebook)
‘Autumn Tree’ Becky Jackson (Facebook)
Another lovely Meriden Sky Scott Barratt (Facebook)
Firstly, a thank you to Carol Stafford for her care for the wildfowl and for keeping us all amused every morning on Facebook with news about Cecil and his friends. You may know that one of the cygnets was found injured by the Doctor’s surgery in October, sadly despite everyone’s best efforts it didn’t survive an operation on its fractured spine. Special thanks to the unknown gentleman who telephoned the RSPCA and Sue Riley who waited with the injured bird until help arrived. The beautiful picture of the swan family in happier times was taken by Joan Jones Lastly how lovely to see a Kingfisher has returned. Picture courtesy of Sally Taylor (Facebook)
On 25th September it was Macmillan’s Annual Coffee Morning. In spite of all the Covid-19 restrictions, we could not let this event be cancelled. To avoid gatherings of more than 6 people, tables were erected at the front of Pipers End to display plants, fruit, scones, cakes, bric a brac and lavender, these were offered for donations that amounted to a total of £265. A very windy morning but well worth our efforts. Many thanks to all those who contributed, friends, neighbours and passers-by. Joan Russell & Sue Fuller
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1.You will need an Oasis ring, some ribbon or string if you want to hang your wreath. Some Christmas decorations and some florist wires. These items can all be obtained from Hobbycraft or All Seasons Floristry Supplies, Torrington Avenue, Tile Hill. Also, a selection of evergreen stems cut to roughly 3 inches in length. Shave off the outer top edge of the ring to make a more rounded edge and soak it in water for several minutes. 2.Start by pushing your greenery into the oasis all-round the outer edge and add some holly into the centre.
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3. This picture shows the wreath nearly completed with some Christmas accessories, you can also spray the fircones and some leaves silver or gold if you wish. 4. This example would be suitable for a grave or churchyard. 5
5. The completed door garland. You can add a bow with long trailing ends for a final effect. Tie some string or thin ribbon around the top rim of the wreath to make a loop so you can hang it up and admire it. It is important to keep your wreath well-watered, you can either spray it regularly or take it down and re-soak it occasionally. Below a beautiful star decoration also created by Pam Kimberley
With special thanks to Pam Kimberley Chairlady of Meriden Floral Society for the beautiful pictures. In ‘normal’ times Meriden Floral Society meets at Meriden Village Hall on the third Monday of the month. For more details please contact Ann Lea 07725 478624
With thanks to Margaret Barnsdall for these two lovely floral arrangements, we hope they have all given you some festive ideas
CHARITY & FUNDRAISING NEWS Phill Sparkes Virtual London Marathon from Hartshill Hayes to Meriden. On 4th October, Phill ran 26.2 miles, finishing at the Queen’s Head, to raise money for Mind Mental Health in Memory of his friend Paul Ryan who passed away last year. Paul was a regular in the Queen’s Head and was well known in Meriden where he lived on the Fillongley Road. Well done to Phill who has raised over £2000. To donate, please go to: -
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/philsparkes-SAVMLMBONDS333-2020-236358
John’s family Shave for Prostate Cancer On Sunday 25th October, at the Queen’s Head, 3 members of the Beaty family, John, Will and Eth, did a ‘head shave’ with all proceeds going to the Prostate Cancer UK Charity. This was all organised by Nicola Sidwell Beaty to raise not just money but awareness of this terrible disease which has afflicted John. It’s not too late to support them – you can still donate via the link below:-
https://www.gofundme.com/f/johnsfamily-shave-for-prostate-cancer This is the result of the head shave!
Map showing the route run by Phill.
Christmas Photo Shoot with Horses at the Queens Head Pub Come and meet our horses for your very own Xmas photo shoot. Crack out your festive jumpers and create a unique portrait with the special people in your life. Booking essential.
Every Saturday in December 2-4 pm. *subject to lockdown rules* 3 Digital Photos £10 or 1 polaroid to take away £5 Contact Laura: 07969 049854 LCphotography198@gmail.com Percentage of proceeds going to Prostate Cancer UK
Things to do in the garden over the winter months As we approach the shortest day of the year in December you will need work to keep you warm outside, such as digging and tree pruning. Check your winter protection and if you have a greenhouse make sure the heater is working. Hopefully there are not too many jobs left to do this year so you will have time for some fireside garden planning. Check your winter protection structures are still securely in place Check that greenhouse heaters are working Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing Prune open-grown apples and pears (but not those trained against walls) Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops Deciduous trees and shrubs can still be planted and transplanted Take hardwood cuttings Keep mice away from stored produce Reduce watering of houseplants After Christmas re-cycle your fresh Christmas tree and take care of the winter flowering plants Cyclamen need a cool temperature and will wilt quickly in over–heated rooms. Winter Vegetable soup 85g dried red lentils 2 carrots, quartered lengthways then diced 3 sticks celery, sliced 2 small leeks, sliced 2 tbsp tomato purée 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves 3 large garlic cloves, chopped 1 tbsp vegetable bouillon powder or use 2 vegetable stock cubes 1 heaped tsp ground coriander Tip all the ingredients into a large pan. Pour over 1½ litres boiling water, then stir well. Cover and leave to simmer for 30 mins until the vegetables and lentils are tender. Check seasoning. Ladle into bowls and eat straightaway, or if you like a really thick texture, blitz a third of the soup with a hand blender or in a food processor. Old English Raspberry Trifle This is a special trifle for Christmas and the gardeners who have frozen raspberries can use them 6-8 trifle sponges 75g raspberry Jam 225-350 frozen raspberries (partially thawed) 4 tablespoons sherry Custard 2 tablespoons cornflour 600ml milk 4 egg yolks 4 tablespoons sugar Few drops of vanilla essence Topping 300ml double cream Glace cherries or a few reserved raspberries
Flaked almonds
Split the sponges in half and spread with the jam, Cut into 2.5 cm cubes and place in a serving bowl and sprinkle with the sherry. Arrange the raspberries over the sponges and leave to completely thaw. Make the custard Blend the cornflour with the milk in a bowl, then whisk in the egg yolks and strain into a saucepan with the sugar, bring slowly to the boil, cook until thickened, stirring all the time. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla essence. Allow the custard to cool slightly and then pour over the trifle and place in the fridge to cool. Whisk the cream until thick and spread over the custard and then decorate. Thanks to Margaret Argyle for this festive page
Barkers’ Butts RFC
Back again with socially distancing measures
Pickford Grange Lane Coventry CV5 9AR
To comply with Government guidelines
n
Zumba Thursday evenings 6.00pm £5.00 per session
Pilates Thursday evenings 7.00pm £5.00 per session
Enjoy both sessions for £8.00
Our facilities are 1st class and all our coaches are RFU Qualified and CRB checked
Contact Ian Hawkeswood 07399 689682
We also have 4 Adult sides 1st XV to Vets
There will be a special welcome for new and returning players to the game.
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 Please ring 07828 709650 For more information
11 Mini & Junior age groups from 6-16 years Girls teams U/11 U/15 U/18 Under 18 Colts Side
Contact Glen Southwell 07598 980546
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
T’aiChi Chi T’ai
and andand Relaxation Meditation 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 07703 345210 The perfect start to your day ……….
MERIDEN TREE OF THOUGHT www.meridentreeofthought.co.uk
AB SERVICES
16th
By the time you read this, the Tree should be in place on The Green, having been installed on 19th November, by Dovetail Group. I repeat my true gratitude to Lee Butterworth for his amazing support. Also, as I am getting less able to do things, I am deeply thankful to my neighbours, Craig and Heidi Daniel, who have booked time off work to help with the installation. This is seriously kind. As,ever, Clive Jones has said he will be here to help, as he has done every year. Many thanks Clive. It is important to remember that The Tree is paid for from donations I receive and as such, I give my most sincere thanks to Lord and Lady Aylesford, Mrs Pat DeMulder, Pertemps and Cassidy Group, from whom generous donations have been received. For the first time since 2011, I have decided not to publish a new Village Christmas Card this year. This is out of concern for people's likely spending pattern in the present climate. I am, however, putting on sale cards left over from previous years. These will be at a preferential price and I am hoping that enough of you will be able to choose one to your liking. They will be on sale at our Budgens and Lloyds Chemist. I thank them for their continuing support. You can also obtain from them The Symbol of Thought Forms. For me, it is most gratifying that so many of you see this as a fitting and respectful way of remembering a friend or loved one. I also express my gratitude to Stuart Bonnar (KLN DESIGN) for his help from day one with the MTOT Website (address above) and also to the companies who have promotional features on the site. For obvious reasons, we are not able to have a normal dedication of The Tree this year. However, The Rev. Lynda has offered to come back and record a dedication which will be seen on YouTube and, I understand, other locations. She and I will endeavour to make everyone aware. This is a very considerate act on her part and I say now that there is much to thank her and Mark for over the last few years. What a year this is. In amongst all the adversity, so many of you have supported what I do. I must, again mention Pat Smith (Pat-A-Cakes) for her superb baking to raise funds for our charities through MTOT. Now, she is generously running a Cake Raffle, again to generate funds through MTOT (see details below). Please believe me when I say that I see all of you who support The Tree of Thought, in whatever way, as exceptional people. It certainly makes the thousands of hours I have devoted very worthwhile. Thank you all so very much. I wish you the best Christmas possible and a Happy New Year..........Alan.
Pat-a-Cakes Raffle: - Win a delicious home-made cake of your choice every week during January! Buy a ticket by making a donation of £2 via JustGiving to Meriden Tree of Thought. Link is: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/alan-lole-1 You must leave your full name and mention CAKE RAFFLE. The winning ticket will be announced on Facebook shortly after the draw on 30th December and the winner will be contacted to see which cakes they would like.
07542 733152 For all your motoring needs
Servicing Diagnostics Repairs All work undertaken No job too small Modern Vehicles to Classics Fully mobile
Call Alex on 07542 733152 Quote ‘Meriden Mag’ for 10% labour discount
David Deakin Plastering Services Interior plastering and coving work Insurance work welcome. Reliable, friendly, clean service. Free Estimates..
Tel: 01676 521389 Mobile: 07767 237860
J B Decorators and Property Services es
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
CAMEO REPORT Well we’re settling into a ‘new norm’, no gatherings inside and only up to 6 outside! And those rules could change at any time. It’s hard! Our plan to have a meal – 6 at a table had to be cancelled. We do feel sorry for the caterers. The weather now is wintry, so short meetings with others at the shops or in the park are very much appreciated. It’s a good time to enjoy indoor pastimes, knitting, sewing, quizzes and reading. Magazines and newspapers have a variety of number/word challenges.
Stay safe everyone - God bless to all.
A poem to make you smile I wandered lonely as a cloud Two metres from the madding crowd When all at once my name was called To enter Waitrose hallowed hall. This was the pensioners’ special hour. I’d gone to get a bag of flour. But I forgot when through the door What I had gone to Waitrose for. The Waitrose staff are extra kind. I told them it had slipped my mind. They asked what else I had forgot. They clearly thought I’d lost the plot. I phone my wife again to ask. She reminded me of this special task. “I need some flour to bake a cake With all that cream you make me take.”
Telephone 01676 522666 for more information My young grandson called the other day to wish me Happy Birthday. He asked me how old I was, and I told him, '75.' He was quiet for a moment, and then he asked, 'Did you start at 1?'
“Ah yes I recall” I had to lie. I dared not ask what flower to buy. But then I saw them next the tills. A bunch of golden daffodils! Poem by Angela Keating with apologies to Wordsworth.
Meriden Fish and Chips The Green Meriden Home delivery available after Home delivery 5pm - withinfor 3 mile radius available orders on orders £15 over £10. over Call us.
You can try the rest! But we’re the best! Opening hours Monday – Saturday 11.30am - 2pm & 4.15 – 9.30pm Closed Sundays
01676 523476
www.facebook.com/budgensmeriden Freshly baked bread and cakes Hot Breakfast Sandwiches Costa Coffee Award winning Lashford sausages Groceries Wide selection of Meat, Fruit and Veg.
Newspapers Send and receive parcels from here Dry Cleaning Lottery Cash Beer, Wine and Spirits Face masks, hand gel & wipes
Open Xmas Day 9am – 4pm Free Home delivery on orders over £20. Call 01676 522287
Normal Opening hours:Weekdays 6.00am-10.00pm Weekends 7.00am- 10.00pm
Bablake House
Bablake House, Birmingham Road, Millisons Wood Meriden CV5 9AZ
Tel :01676 523689
ww.bablakehouse.co.uk
Meriden Library www.facebook.com/meridenlib
At the time of writing, Meriden Library is closed for browsing but you can request books for collection through our Click and Collect scheme. However, we are about to go into a national lockdown, so this information may change. Currently, collection day is every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm. Simply go to www.solihull.gov.uk/Resident/Libraries/Clickand-Collect and complete the online form with your preferences and we’ll be in touch to arrange your pick up time. Anyone unable to use the online form can telephone 0121 704 8001 and our team will be happy to help. Some other Solihull libraries are open for browsing; go to the Libraries COVID-19 page at www.solihull.gov.uk/Resident/Libraries/Librarie s-COVID-19 for details, opening hours and information about other available services, including our range of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers, as well as online access to services such as Ancestry for researching your family history. This is all free with your library membership. The nearest libraries open for browsing are The Core Library in Solihull and Balsall Common Library. For anyone unable to get out and about, our Home Library Service may be able to help. When you get in touch, a member of the library team will contact you by phone to assess your individual needs and circumstances. They will explain how the service works and answer any questions you may have. They will also find out what sort of books you enjoy – this will help our staff to choose items for you. We’ll then arrange a time to visit. Rest assured, our team all use the correct PPE and practise social distancing in line with Government recommendations. If this is something you think that you or someone you know may benefit from, do give us a call on 0121 704 6947 or email us at libraryarts@solihull.gov.uk and we will take it from there. Keep up to date with our news by liking us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/meridenlib checking on www.solihull.gov.uk/Resident/Libraries and calling 0121 704 8001. All information is accurate at the time of writing.
Book Review: The Thursday Murder Club By Richard Osmond Followers of the TV Quiz show “Pointless” will be familiar with the co-presenter, Richard Osmond, whose pithy, intelligent and well-observed one-liners add so much to the entertainment of the production. “The Thursday Murder Club” is Osmond’s first novel - a light-hearted but cleverly crafted whodunit written with wit and flair. In a peaceful upmarket retirement village, four unlikely friends – all feisty in their different ways - meet up each week to investigate unsolved murders. Having acquired access to police files of “cold cases” and unsafe convictions, they gather to re-examine, discuss and solve the crimes. But when a brutal killing takes place on their very doorstep, The Thursday Murder Club members find themselves in the midst of their first live case. The narrative moves along at pace as the quartet unearth clues through, sometimes, masterful manipulation. There are red herrings, unexpected twists and a pair of police officers who, despite their best efforts, always manage to be one step behind their amateur counterparts. The writing is a treat; the characters are beautifully drawn and whilst the tone is light and often funny with moments of tragi-comedy, there are also moments of poignancy as the main characters are given time to reflect on the inevitability of growing old. All this is played out in the accurately observed setting of such a retirement complex, with its inevitable state of the art fitness facilities, conversational Italian classes, a “Jigsaw Room” and the copious consumption of quality wines! Intelligently written - with a sequel on its way - the book is recommended as a perfect antidote to a gloomy, locked–down Winter day. Chris Copper
Dates for hoisting The flag on Meriden Green 9th January – Birthday of the Duchess of Cambridge 20th January – Birthday of the Countess of Wessex 6th February – Her Majesty’s Accession 19th February – Birthday of the Duke of York
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. Maya Angelou, poet, memoirist and activist
Seasons Greetings
Dog Fouling
On behalf of us all at Meriden Parish Council we would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 2020 has been challenging for us all, however, we as a community rose to the challenge and have supported each other throughout.
The Parish Council has received numerous complaints regarding dog fouling on footpaths and the discarding of poo bags in trees and bushes rather than taking them home or disposing appropriately into litter/dog bins. The following should be remembered by dog owners/walkers who choose not to clean up after their pooches:-
We would like to formally thank NRS Waste care for sponsoring this year’s Christmas lights on the tree on the roundabout by The Green.
“It is illegal not picking up after your dog. Anyone can witness this incident and report you to Solihull MBC’s Enforcement Team which may result in you being fined”. To report dog fouling call SMBC on 0121 704 8000, or visit their website www.solihull.gov.uk
Meriden Pool Update
Quarry Liaison Group
As winter approaches the wildfowl eating all they can to put on that extra bit of weight/fat to see them through the sparse months but please do not stop feeding them. Just a reminder please only give them what they can eat whilst you are there.
Meriden Quarry Liaison Group has been meeting since 2013 and is an opportunity for all those involved in the operation of the wider Meriden Quarry site to meet and discuss opportunities and issues. The Group had lost its purpose and as such the Parish Council have worked hard to take the opportunity to refresh and bring the group back together. The group has in the past achieved many things such as a highways cleaning consortium, a routing agreement and delivered community engagement sessions.
The cygnets seem to be getting bigger than their parents and looking ready to literally ‘fly the nest’, unfortunately over the last weekend of October they appear to have made an attempt. Two of them were missing in the morning, one was found injured at the surgery car park, collected by the RSPCA and later died after an operation on its spine. Nevertheless, on the Monday morning there were two of them on the pool again, so one must have found its way back. By Monday evening when the Mag goes to press the latest siting is only one adult and one cygnet, so we are obviously going through a restless period and probably will finish up with the two cygnets leaving for good. Thanks to all who keep a watchful eye over the nature at the pool. The Friends of the Pool Group had our meeting with a SMBC representative and a number of proposals, mainly aimed at increasing and enhancing the seating and viewing areas, are now under consideration’. Peter Moss – Friends of Meriden Pool
The areas and the operations associated within it have become more complex with more and more organisations setting up shop. To ensure the group remains on track, impartial and fair to all Alderman David Bell has agreed to step into the Chairs role. David brings a wealth of experience from his days as a Solihull MBC Councillor as well as sitting on the group some years ago. Meetings are held once a quarter, usually at the Pavilion in Meriden Sports Park and last at most 2 hours. The group successfully met with the on Monday 26th October with A&A, Cemex, NRS, Tarmac, L Lynch, SMBC Highways, Hampton In Arden Parish Council and Berkswell Estate in attendance.
War Memorial Update
Welcome To Our New Councillor
The Parish Council is now the legal owners of the Berkswell Road War Memorial and work has been carried out to tidy the area around the memorial.
At October’s meeting of the Parish Council Councillors were happy to formally Co-Opt Amy Eburne into the vacancy we have advertised since May.
After a successful funding bid to the War Memorials Trust the Parish Council received a total of £1830.00 equating to 50% of the costs needed to carry out essential work to repair and maintain the memorial. The Parish Council has contributed the remaining 50% of the cost to ensure this remains a fitting tribute to those whom paid the ultimate sacrifice from Meriden.
Amy impressed members with her interest in engaging younger members of the community and we are excited to work with her over the next few years.
Whilst Covid-19 has meant that the village couldn’t have a tribute at the memorial this year Cllr Rosie Weaver BEM (Chair of the Parish Council) laid a wreath on behalf of Meriden on the memorial as part of the memorial service broadcast via the St Laurence Church and Parish Council website and social media channels.
We Will Remember Them
Amy has lived in Meriden since the age of 4, attending the primary school, and growing up in Millisons Wood for 19 years, until she bought her own flat in the village where she now lives. She works in digital marketing and as such has experience in advertising, social media, website creation, and content (like blog writing) which will be of benefit to the community in Meriden.
Helpline Reminder Please remember that the Covid-19 Helpline is still operational 7 days a week 8am-8pm. If you are isolating, poorly and need support with shopping and picking up medication, please call us on 07483 371 204. This does not replace the usual emergency services number. Please call 101/999 in these circumstances
For the foreseeable future the Parish Council will be meeting via Zoom. Anyone can attend either virtually by using Zoom via the link on our Facebook page and on all noticeboards or you can phone in using the number provided and entering the meeting ID and password. We also stream on Facebook Live if you want to watch
https://www.facebook.com/MeridenParishCouncil Should you wish to contact the Parish Council, please contact the Clerk to have a private chat to address local community issues or visit our website where you can access a wealth of information. Clerk: Barbara Bland, 55 James Dawson Drive, Millisons Wood, Coventry, CV5 9QJ T: 01676 522474 M: 07767 162423 E: clerk@meridenparishcouncil.org.uk
PUZZLE PAGE – No. 6 BATTLESHIPS - HOW TO PLAY: - The numbers around the grid indicate the no. of occupied squares in the row/column. E.g. 1,3 means the row contains one occupied square then at least one space then 3 consecutive occupied squares. There may be spaces before the single square and after the 3 consecutive ones. Fill in the grid so that the numbers tally and it contains 3 cruisers (4 squares long), 3 launches (2 squares long) and 3 buoys (single squares). Boats are always horizontal or vertical in the grid & may occupy touching squares.
Battleships 1,2 2,1 1,1,3 1,1,1 2 1
WORD LADDER: -Change one letter at a time, but not the position of any letter, to make a new word on each rung, from top to bottom, using the exact number of rungs
4 2
1,1
5
Brick Work
1
1,1
1,1,2
4,1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Each answer, except the first, uses all the letters – usually in a different order - from the previous answer plus one extra letter.
Clues: 1. In favour of (3) 2. Sweet fortified wine 3. Metaphorical use of a word (5) 4. Advertising Sheet 5. Alignment of the body (7) 6. Most Conceited (8) 7. Took the weight off (9)
Word Ladder T
O
W
N
C
I
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BOXWISE – Place the three-lettered blocks in
PATHFINDER: - Starting from the shaded
the grid so that adjacent squares, marked by arrows, reveal a 6 letter word. E.g. 2 and 5 make a 6 letter word but not 5 and 9. One has been filled in to start you off.
centre letter, move up, down or sideways (but NOT diagonally) to find the path through 16 canned foods.
R
EXTRA PUZZLE PAGE
Blinds
AMS Pest Control Services ‘Experts in Protected’ Wasp Nest Treatment £60 Rodent Control
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Indi Sangha Window Cleaning and Jet Washing Services Visit: V isit: is t: www.meridenblinds.co.uk www ww w..meride rriid deeen nb bllin ind dsss..co co.u ukk Allll p Al A pr prices ric ices es q qu quoted uo otted ed iin include nccllud ncl ude m ude me measuring, eas asurin uriin ur n ng, g,, ffi g fitting, ittttin ing, g, a an and nd VAT VA V AT IIff you yyo ou know kno kn ow w the the measurements, th meeas m asu urrem emen ents, ts, I am ts am happy happy happ ha pp p py to to give givvee you gi yyo ou q qu uot ottes eess b ma aiil p lea eassee send sseend end nd your your yo ur details deeta d tails to: to: to quotes byy eem email please iinfo@meridenblinds.co. nfo@m nf meerriide den nb blilind lind ndss..cco o.
Serving Meriden and Millison’s Wood area for over 20 years Call 07949 227402
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Meriden Surgery
01676 522252
School House, 200 Main Road, Meriden, CV7 7NG Dr M Bhandal Dr A Carlile Dr T Nadeem Dr R Horsley (Partners) Associates GP; Dr L Whitehead, Dr A Omokanye, Dr T Edwards
www.balsallcommon grouppractice.co.uk Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00 For details on how to obtain medical help when the surgery is closed please phone
01676 935000
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a devastating impact on the overall health of the country. The full impact of the coronavirus is even more damaging than the death toll at the time of writing of over 44,451 deaths in the UK. The practice team is aware of the wide-ranging effects of the pandemic on our patients’ lives. There was alarming news recently on nationally reduced two week wait cancer referrals, increasing mental health stress, the added delay in accessing routine hospital services is well documented nationally. The practice urges patients with 'red flag' symptoms of cancer to speak to the doctor. The practice rapidly made changes during the first lockdown and worked with our neighbouring Rural Primary Care Network practices to maintain a resilient safe service. Those who have been in contact with us or visited the practice will have seen different access, new ways of communicating with you and the appointment system had to change. Our team almost overnight changed the practice to have social distancing measures, one-way routes, staff PPE and we adopted different zones for protecting the most vulnerable groups. The practice continues to see people face to face when clinically appropriate and the patient is negative for the three COVID hallmark symptoms of fever, persistent cough and loss of sense of smell. We have new technology to arrange video consultations and enable more secure electronic communication of information. We have access to refer to a local service run by 'Badger' GPs who for many years have provided our out of hours service. The Badger 'Red Site' is for patients who have possible COVID and need a safe face to face assessment. Our current focus is vaccination with 4184 flu vaccinations to complete for at risk patients + over 65s. Please book if you are eligible and haven't been yet. A new cohort is the 450 flu vaccinations for household patients who have a household member that is deemed at High Risk of COVID. Our team has given 2668 flu vaccinations to date. The Balsall Common Lions supported us with the management of Saturday Flu Clinics and we would like to thank all their members for their support. We hope, as much as you, that we will shall be able to offer a COVID vaccine as soon as it is available to our most vulnerable elderly residents.
Nationally general practice offers 6.68 million appointments a week. We are noticing how patients didn't wish to overload us during lockdown and now lots of people have delays in accessing health care. In the past three months the doctors in the practice have seen patients face to face; 419 in July, 347 August and 583 in September. We have undertaken through July, August and September 2728, 2499 and 2866 telephone consultations with doctors respectively. ref https://digital.nhs.uk/data-andinformation/publications/statistical/appointmentsin-general-practice--weekly-mi/current?
Please follow the government guidelines and stay safe.
Dr Horsley
BREATHE EASY COVENTRY
We are still here for anyone with a lung condition or who is a carer, relative or friend. We are unable to have our usual monthly meetings and social events due to Covid 19 but we are only a phone call away should you need information or a friendly voice to give you support at this difficult time
Phone Janet (Chair) on 024 7646 0081 to see if we can be of any help. “Keep well”
Tenders are invited for Contracts to be awarded for the forthcoming three year period with a further two year extension subject to year three contract performance review and six monthly interim contract reviews. Contracts to commence: 01 April 2021 to 31 March 2024 in the first instance, plus two year extension to 31 March 2026 with Year 4 annual review and one month break clause If you are interested in tendering for any of the following 8 Contracts please supply information to Barbara Bland, Parish Clerk, 55 James Dawson Drive, Millisons Wood, CV5 9QJ by Friday 11 December 2020 in a plain envelope, and marking the envelope TENDER. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Contract 1: Outdoors Meriden Sports Park (Non Specialist Works) Between April to September - To daily inspect and empty the bins that need emptying and place into Fortress litter skip which is collected every Friday. - To litter pick daily – everywhere. - To sweep and collect courts 1 and 2 weekly. - To sweep and collect car park weekly. - To weed in-between block paving in car park and around the pavilion weekly. - to bi-weekly clean under the roof of pavilion and wipe CCTV cameras - To deep clean litter bins twice a year - To inspect play equipment daily. - To inspect and maintain exercise apparatus/equipment daily - To water the sports field, trees and children’s play area as required. - Mow and strim the Areas 1 – 5a below and trim back anything protruding through fence (brambles, stingers, branches etc) and remove from site weekly. Area 1 Side of courts weekly Area 2 Children’s play area weekly. Area 3 Car park inside boundary weekly. Area 3a Outside boundary & frontage including extended frontage to BT & Zebra Crossing – weekly. Area 4 Perimeter boundary – weekly Area 5a Mow sports field to football and cricket height standards - weekly. Between October and March - To weekly empty bins on a Monday and Thursday into Fortress litter bin which is collected every Friday. - To litter pick weekly. - To sweep courts weekly and collect fallen leaves. - To treat Moss and remove slippery surface weekly. - To sweep and collect car park weekly. - To weed car park and around the pavilion weekly.
- to bi-weekly clean under the roof of pavilion and wipe CCTV cameras - To remove and collect fallen leaves from sports field, running track and children’s play area - weekly. -Mow and strim the Areas 1 – 5a below and trim back anything protruding through fence (brambles, stingers, branches etc) and remove from the site weekly. Area 1 – Side of courts - weekly to mid-November; as and when required thereafter. Area 2 - Children’s play area – weekly to midNovember as and when required thereafter to include the renovation of any damaged areas of matting & grounds beneath each item of play equipment. Area 3 - Car park inside boundary – as and when required thereafter Area 3a - Outside boundary and frontage – as and when required thereafter. Area 4 - Perimeter boundary including collection of fallen leaves from running track – as and when required thereafter. Area 5a Sports Field – Weekly till mid-December then as and when required thereafter. Contract 2 – Outdoors Meriden Sports park (Specialist Works) Area 5b – Sports Ground & Pitches Groundswork Maintenance If interested in Contract 1 and/or Contract 2, please request full maintenance schedule and schematic plan of site areas 1 to 5b from the clerk or view it online at www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk Contract 3: Outdoors & Indoors Meriden Sports Park Pest Control -Weekly monitoring of sports park pitch and boundaries. -Removal of moles from all sports park grounds including children’s play area. -Removal of any other pests as and when required, internally and externally.
You are also invited to register with the Parish Council for emergency/essential maintenance contracts, such as painting, cleaning or repair work. If you would like to register your interest, arrange a visit to the sports park, discuss or receive further information, please contact the Clerk on clerk@meridenparishcouncil.org.uk
Contract 4: Outdoor Village Centre & Parish April to March (subject to weather conditions)
-To clean sports park benches (14), youth shelter and maintain and annually treat wooden benches.
The Green -To weekly collect litter both on The Green, under the Cedar tree, under walled seating and from benches, cut grass and trim edges to footpath/pavement. -To annually fertilize. -To weed Cyclists Memorial & around benches. -To trim & maintain hedge screening electricity box. Planting -Summer planting of trough and planter arrangements around village (40) and watering throughout season. -Winter planting of troughs around village (40). -To maintain garden around Meriden Cross and supply of summer and winter planting. General Maintenance -Strim around planters and gateway signage. -Remove weeds from Showell Lane roundabout Fir Trees – Fillongley Road -To weekly litter pick under trees. Coronation Island -Maintain, cut grass and weed beds, pruning of Yew Tree and surrounding banking including wildflower bank. War Memorial -Maintain, cut back trees/shrubs and shape. Remove weeds/moss/nettles from stone surface. -Entrance step cleansing removing moss and slippery surface. Memorial Approach & Poppy -Maintain, cut grass and weed. Remove overhanging/ dead branches impacting on light. Summer and winter planting of Poppy. Meriden Roundabout -Maintain, cut grass and weed. Edge flower beds and litter pick. Collect all fallen leaves and dispose. Letitia/Maxstoke Corner -Maintain, cut grass, weed and cut back/shape trees/hedge/shrub line. Whittle’s Way Copse -Maintain footpath joining Millennium & Heart of England Ways. Remove broken branches. Ensure gateways to Copse from Strawberry Fields and Sports Park is accessible at all times removing nettles/undergrowth. Allotment Internal Boundaries -Maintain and cut back twice per year. -Maintain footpath and remove nettles/weeds. Dog Bins -To weekly empty (6) dog bins sited on Hampton Lane, Fillongley Road, Millison’s Wood, Maxstoke Lane and Meriden Gate, Coronation Island.
Red Telephone Boxes – Village Green and Albert Road, Millisons’ Wood -To clean/check weekly, any repairs/paint to be reported for clerk authorisation when required.
November to March (subject to weather conditions) Carry out seasonal maintenance and litter pick and collect fallen leaves from all areas listed above weekly. Contract 5: Street Furniture Bus Shelters -To clear litter and sweep weekly. -To remove any graffiti weekly. -Notify Clerk of any problems with shelters. -To wet wash monthly. -To repair and maintain Bus Shelters (10) and paint, as and when requested. Benches and Notice boards -To maintain & treat benches (20) and notice boards (5).
Meriden Gateway Signage -To clean all gateway signs quarterly. Contract 6: Sports Park & Pavilion -Weekly checks of all-weather multiple use sports area, fencing and gates. -Weekly cleaning of the interior of the sports pavilion. -Deep clean twice a year at commencement of each season. Cleaning schedule is available upon request. Contract 7: Opening and closing of Sports Park -To daily open the entrance gates at 7am. -To daily close the entrance gates at dusk (seasonal) Contract 8: Essential maintenance (Sports Pavilion) Mandatory Service visits to National Standard compliance for Community Buildings:
Air Units annually. Automatic Shutters annually. Fire Alarms/Emergency Lighting quarterly. Fire Fighting Equipment annually. Gas Appliances annually. Lightning Protection annually. Portable Appliance Testing annually. Water risk monitoring monthly. Shower head cleaning every six months. Risk assessment & risk assessment reviews every two years. Water sampling annually. Clean out gutters and downpipes including access equipment annually. Checking and rodding of below ground foul drainage annually. Electrical equipment to roof level plant room and ground floor switchgear/controls cupboard annually. Electrical power and lighting annually. Oil separator system controls annually. Disabled call alarm system. Caretaker service for electrical and mechanical checks monthly. External lighting. Out of hours service and call outs. Weekly checks of emergency lighting and security alarm. Maybe move to Contract 8? M & E maintenance schedule is available upon request.
Please note ALL persons submitting tenders: 1. Will be shortlisted and interviewed. 2. Will provide their own tools and protective equipment for Contracts. 3. Accept responsibility for all Health and Safety issues & DBS checks involved with the Contracts.
Opposing Views of HS2 HS2’s works near Meriden - High Speed Two (HS2) is the new high speed railway for Britain. Early works for HS2 are carried out by a joint venture between Laing O’Rourke and J. Murphy & Sons known as LM, and main works are carried out by a joint venture between Balfour Beatty and VINCI known as BBV. LM’s works closest to Meriden are concentrated near the site of the future HS2 Interchange Station. For the remainder of 2020, we will continue to remodel and improve the existing road network and create new routes on HS2 land, using phased traffic measures mainly on the B4438, A452 and Northway. To minimise disruption during peak travel times, where possible, our traffic measures will be carried out overnight, or during restricted daytime hours. During winter 2020, BBV will complete its compound off Park Lane just north of Balsall Common in preparation for occupancy in the New Year. The lane is now closed to non-construction traffic. From the end of November, a new compound and haul road will be developed near to the Berkswell Train Station railway route in preparation for future works in this area. HS2 during the coronavirus pandemic - HS2 is continually reviewing the works on its construction sites in line with Government and Public Health England (PHE) advice on dealing with Coronavirus. The Government’s current Coronavirus strategy makes clear that construction activity can continue as long as it complies with this guidance. Those sites that are still working are doing so because they can operate within the guidelines. Stay in touch - Subscribe to HS2 in Solihull at www.hs2insolihull.co.uk to receive news updates about all of HS2’s works in Solihull, including traffic measures. You can get in touch with HS2 via its Helpdesk team all day, every day of the year on 08081 434 434, and at hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk if you have any enquiries.
Heart of England High Speed Railway Action Group - Richard Lloyd (Chairman) Work to prepare for HS2 is grinding on with the removal of trees and the installation of miles of fencing along the eventual line. Disruption of major roads has been fairly limited so far, but works will continue for the foreseeable future. Closures of roads and footpaths seem to go on far longer than necessary, and unfortunately, neither HS2 nor Solihull Council make it easy to find out what's going on b by providing idi a map. There's no news yet of when the serious work at Stonebridge and along the A45 will start. This will result in the A45 being raised by 3m so HS2 can go underneath. For those visiting the countryside, the destructive effects of the project are all too obvious. The end of the bird-nesting season signalled the start of the largest programme of deforestation seen in peacetime. Ancient woodland and the 250-year old Cubbington pear tree have fallen to the chain saw, and the Greenway from Balsall Common to Kenilworth, which many will know and have enjoyed, is next in line. For decades it's provided a peaceful green corridor. Despite all the lobbying by local people, assurances given to Solihull in 2015, and the best efforts of environmental protesters, it's going. Parliament was told it would only be taken if a structural survey showed it could support construction traffic. Well, HS2 would say that, wouldn't they? Our memories will fade with time: the trees, the wildlife, and the Victorian brickwork HS2 is an important factor in the Solihull Local Plan, now released for consultation. If they can't build houses in one place, the developers will want to build them somewhere else. So the stand-off between Solihull Council and HS2 over the Middle Bickenhill station site has wider significance. If they wanted to create a "garden city" of 2500 houses, Solihull shouldn't have given planning permission for the sprawl of HS2 car parks. The new Plan refers to the "challenge" of using "decked car park options", harking back to the original concept of 10 years ago. Most of the area would have been left as farmland, with 7000 cars parked in a 5-storey block. Then HS2 realised they could make money by taking up the whole "triangle" and charging anyone who wanted to build on it. Also, proposed for Balsall Common are up to 1200 on the east side, mainly within 800 metres of the HS2 line. Even HS2 Ltd shows on their map a grey-shaded Deaf Zone covering most of the area, including the place a new primary school is meant to go. Solihull thinks high density housing near the line can be a sort of human shield to lessen the noise reaching the larger houses higher up the slope. This doesn't seem a good sales pitch - or something that would actually work. More importantly, if the developers get cold feet, this part of the Plan would be undeliverable. During another disastrous three months for the project, HS2 Ltd revealed they'd busted their latest budget by £800 million. Part of that is the extension of the tunnel going into Birmingham, showing yet again the shoddiness of the design rubber-stamped by the politicians. The country has the worst possible result - a route chosen on the basis it could be done with minimal tunnelling, combined with the complexity and cost of actually making it doable. Things would be so different if Solihull had backed a route that followed an existing line - with Solihull the first stop out of London.
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Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA Idle thoughts of a U.S. baby boomer - about the Cold War, kids today and Sloanism. The Cold War: Once upon a time I was a kid, and from time to time in school we’d have drill. If the red-painted horns in the hallways gave off a continuous blast, it was a fire drill, so we had to line up and get out of the building in a nice, orderly fashion. But if it was an intermittent tone, that meant it was a bomb drill, which meant that we had to line up in the hallways in a nice, orderly fashion and sit down with our backs to the lockers, on the apparent theory that the steel lockers and the concrete-block walls would offer some protection when Nikita Khrushchev decided to drop some atomic bombs on us, which we were pretty sure he would eventually do. But first, the teacher would have us lower the venetian blinds (in our modern, 1956 school) lest the shards from the wall of glass in our classroom cut our heads off when the bombs fell, which was more likely to be over the Pratt & Whitney plant in Middletown, Connecticut, than over the strategically unimportant nearby towns of Kensington or Meriden, but that was close enough. And that’s why there were once a dozen Nike missile sites, intended to shoot down Soviet bombers, in this little state. For those of us old enough to remember, it was a stressful time. In fact, our class had been organized to write individual letters to Chairman Mao, in “Red China,” urging him to release the American spy John Downey, whose mother was a school teacher in neighbouring New Britain. Our letters explained that Mr. Downey was just some fine fellow who happened to be in a CIA plane that had been shot down over Chinese territory. (I still haven’t had a reply from Mr. Mao; maybe I didn’t put enough postage on it.) Kids today: They have it worse than we did, because our big fear never happened, while their big fear — school shootings in which they might hide under their desks but they would still likely see some of their friends dead on the floor — has happened all too often in the U.S. And maybe the only reason it seems to have stopped in 2020 is that the schools were closed for many months in favour of “remote learning” forced by the coronavirus pandemic. Fortunately, in the U.K. you have much stricter gun laws, so you do not have the same problem. Connecticut has stricter laws than most U.S. states -- enacted after the tragic event in 2012 at Sandy Hook School -- but no serious action has been taken at the national level. Sloanism: Another reason I think kids have it worse today is that they’ve been bombarded since birth, incessantly, with advertising that tells them they have to have the coolest shoes and the coolest clothes and the coolest everything else — and that stuff costs money — but if they don’t have it, they can’t possibly be cool. Cue the peer pressure, now enhanced by social media, and KA-CHING! This is an aspect of Sloanism, named for Alfred P. Sloan, an early president of General Motors. While Henry Ford was cranking out basically one car model, cheaply, in huge numbers, Sloan one-upped him by offering different makes, models and prices for different consumers, monetizing a desire for prestige that John Q. Public probably didn’t even know he had. From bottom to top of the price range, Sloan gave him five models, from the humble Chevrolet to the aspirational Oldsmobile to the stately Cadillac. Apply that idea to status symbols for kids — starting with clothes and shoes — and you get all the stresses and strains (on parents as well as kids) of modern marketing. Jeans may be jeans, but what you really wanted were Levis. And shoes may be shoes, but what you really wanted were Nikes. (Or fill in other topdollar brands.) Sure, there was brand-related pressure when I was a teen, but it was still primitive in those days, nothing like the deluge of advertising and scientific marketing that manufacturers inflict on kids today. The end. (Although it never really ends.) Reach Glenn Richter at grichter@record-journal.com.
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A Message from Councillor Tony Dicicco A Message from Councillor Tony Dicicco
As we near year end, it is natural to look back over thewe key events shaped to that year. Well, As near yearthat end,have it is natural look back over 2020 beenthat a year likeshaped none of us year. has experienced the keyhas events have that Well, before. WWII or breakouts of TB 2020 hasEven beenthose a yearwho likelived nonethrough of us has experienced will not have faced such severe restrictions as we have before. Even those who lived through WWII or those breakouts of TB faced Lockdown. It is notrestrictions yet clear how the Covid-19 will notduring have faced such severe as those we have crisis during will play out and how longer to faced Lockdown. It is much not yet clear we howwill theneed Covid-19 observe distancing quarantine measures. thank you crisis will social play out and howand much longer we will needI to for yoursocial continuing patience, understanding and perseverance. observe distancing and quarantine measures. I thank you This crisis has been very difficult for both national and local for your continuing patience, understanding and perseverance. government to manage. The priority has been, and must This crisis has been very difficult for both national and local remain, public health. I would like tohas salute all and our NHS government to manage. The priority been, muststaff who arepublic performing brilliantly safe. I would remain, health.soI would like in tokeeping salute allusour NHS staff also are likeperforming to thank allso thebrilliantly other essential workers andI volunteers who in keeping us safe. would wholike areto playing in trying to maintain semblance of also thank aallkey therole other essential workers aand volunteers normality. Solihull Council (SMBC) has devoted considerable who are playing a key role in trying to maintain a semblance of resources Solihull to helping vulnerable in our community normality. Council (SMBC)people has devoted considerable whilst trying to offsetvulnerable the decrease in income from a reduction resources to helping people in our community in council tax, and other income. Wea must try to whilst trying tobusiness offset therates decrease in income from reduction to save people’s lives but inprotect councilthe tax,economy businesswhilst rates trying and other income. We must try to getting the thateconomy balance right not easy. protect whilstistrying to save people’s lives but Of course, must right not beis focussed getting thatwe balance not easy.solely on the here-andOf course, we must notthink be focussed solely on the here-andnow; we also have to about the future. A key now; we also have tofuture think about future. key consideration is the shape the of our localAvillages. Our local consideration is the future shape of our local local area is an attractive place for developers andvillages. there isOur no doubt area an attractive place forhere. developers and there is no doubtis that isthey will want to build Considerable development that they for willBalsall want to build here. is planned Common but Considerable fewer (arounddevelopment 100) homes are planned Common butdevelopment fewer (around 100)behomes plannedfor forBalsall Meriden. Any new must well- are planned Any to new must be wellplanned,for beMeriden. sympathetic thedevelopment local environment and deliver planned, be sympathetic to the local and deliver new infrastructure that benefits bothenvironment new and existing new infrastructure that benefits new and existing residents. For these reasons, it isboth in the interests of residents residents. For these reasons, it is in the interests of residents that SMBC has an agreed Local Plan. That is why I and my that SMBC hascouncillors an agreedvoted Local to Plan. That isthe why I and my Plan fellow Ward approve draft Local fellow Ward councillors to approve thebeen draftworking Local Plan at a Full Council meetingvoted in October. We’ve at a Full Council meeting October. been working together to try to reduceinthe impactWe’ve of future development. together to try to reduce thewon, impact of future We’ve campaigned for, and more publicdevelopment. open space in the We’ve campaigned for, and won, more public open spaceasina the Plan, as well as improved infrastructure provision, such Plan, as well as improved infrastructure provision, such as a new network of footpaths and cycle lanes. We understand new network of footpaths lanes. We residents’ concerns about and the cycle development ofunderstand Green Belt land residents’ concerns about development of Green land and we will work with thethe West Midlands Mayor andBelt SMBC and we will work with Westnegative Midlands Mayoronand Leader to prevent anythe further impact theSMBC Meriden Leader anywere further impact on the Meriden Gap. If to theprevent Local Plan not negative to be adopted when it goes before Gap. If the Local Plan were not tolater be adopted when goes before the Planning Inspector probably this year, not itonly would the Planning Inspector laterobligations this year, not would SMBC have no plan to probably meet its legal ononly housing need, SMBC have no plan to meet its legal obligations on housing need, but plans to deliver key infrastructure and climate change but plans to deliver keylocal infrastructure and change improvements for our area would beclimate lost. The Plan also improvements for our local area would be lost. The Plan also provides the framework for redevelopment of the village centre in provides the framework redevelopment the village centre in Balsall Common - I knowfor that many Meridenofresidents use this for Balsall Common I know that many Meriden residents use this for shopping and eating out. shopping and eating out. In conclusion, we recognise that our local area is an attractive Inplace conclusion, we recognise our local areaway is antoattractive for developers but wethat believe the best control this place for developers but we believe the best way to iscontrol this development and gain benefits for our community to have an development and gain benefits for our community is to have an agreed Local Plan. We will continue to campaign for the protection agreed Local Plan. Weand willtocontinue to the campaign for the protection of the Meriden Gap represent best interests of all of the Meriden Gap and represent the best interests of all to residents to ensure thatto our local area remains a great place residents to ensure that our local area remains a great place to live. live. Finally, I wish you a Merry Christmas and hope that 2021 will Finally, I wish year you afor Merry and hope 2021 will be a happier all ofChristmas us. To comment on that the issues in this be a happier yearlocal for all of us. To comment article or other issues, please contact on methe at: issues in this article or other local issues, please contact me at: tony.dicicco@solihull.gov.uk. tony.dicicco@solihull.gov.uk.
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Trees of Meriden and Millisons Wood Common Lime Trees Growing up to 45m in height, the Common Lime is amongst our tallest broad leaf trees. Their stature and lovely foliage makes them a popular ornamental tree and they have been used in landscaping designss since the 17th century; this is probably why they can be found in front of both Darlaston Court and the Manor Hotel. Lime trees have been present in Britain for around 9000 years. Historically they were called linde or linden which eventually evolved to line or lime. Traditionally it has had many uses. The wood is light, finely textured and easy to work making it valued for furniture, clogs and shield making, turning and carving. Up until the last century, lime bark was soaked to separate the inner layer which was then spun to make cord and rope. Lime wood doesn’t warp and is still used in musical instruments, for example piano keys and sounding boards. Lime was believed to have medicinal properties as well. In addition to being a pleasant drink linden tea, made with the leaves or flowers, was used as a mild sedative and an antidote to fever in cold and ‘flu’ sufferers. Lime leaves were used in ointments to treat abscesses. The Common Lime is a hybrid of the broad and small leaf varieties. It occurs naturally in areas where both live, but is not as common as its name suggests, and is more likely to be found cultivated in parks and urban areas than in the wild. Lime leaves are heart shaped, lobed and asymmetrical at the base. The leaves are eaten by the caterpillars of many species of moth and aphids, in particular the specialist Common Lime
Common Lime Tree Aphid. These tiny insects (2 to 3 mm in length) feed on the tree’s sugar sap, accessing it through the veins on the bottom of the leaves. They excrete sweet, sticky honeydew which is eaten by bees, and hated by motorists when it ends up on their cars parked beneath lime trees planted along urban streets! Limes are among the few insect pollinated trees in Britain.
Lime flower Leaf Fruit The creamy-yellow flowers, come out in June and July. and have a sweet-smelling nectar irresistible to insects. They each contain both the male and female reproductive parts. As they swarm over the flowers, gorging on the nectar, the insects intake the pollen grains from the male anther to the female stigma. Bees have been seen struggling drunkenly beneath lime trees intoxicated on the nectar. The linden honey which the bees produce is particularly sweet and provides many more vitamins and minerals than most other varieties. When the flowers are fertilised, the small globular fruits develop in clusters, attached to long, leaf like bracts, which act as parachutes and aid dispersal. When I went to photograph the limes in front of Darlaston Court, I discovered lots of shoots growing up from the base of the trees. These are known as epicormic shoots which develop from buds within the bark. These buds are kept dormant by hormones from active shoots higher up, but this mechanism is not fully understood. It seems environmental factors may distort the hormone balance of the tree, resulting in the growth of these shoots from the base. Limes are one of the few tree species that can be pollarded. When the upper branches have been cut off, the hormone balance changes and the epicormic buds in the bark sprout. The avenue of limes in the church Lime at Darlaston Court yard are an example of pollarding.
Ladybirds on Lime Trees at Darlaston Court
What was delightful about this growth around the base was that it was swarming with ladybirds of many different patterns. These would be amongst a number of predators attracted by the aphids. I have tried to identify the species of ladybirds but can’t be sure. I suspect they are harlequin, an invasive species with a wide variation in appearance. They were introduced to control aphids, have spread widely and rapidly and are believed to be out-competing native species. It was fun trying to find all the different variations, though! Are there any ladybird experts out there who can identify them?
If you’re interested in our trees, local wildlife and conservation in general, it would be great to hear from you.
Sarah Sharland meridentreewardens@gmail.com
Meriden and Millisons Wood Trees
WALKING PAGE (mostly) Millisons Wood > Back Lane > St Laurence Church - Circular walk. 3.4 miles and no stiles to climb. Fairly flat but can be muddy across fields and in the wood, so please wear suitable footwear. Start point is the entrance to Millison’s Wood at the top of Albert Road. Enter the wood, take the first path on the right and follow this for 0.35 miles, keeping right when the path forks. The path winds but you’re never far from the wood edge to your right. Take time to read the information boards. Keep on this main path until you see a clear exit (see photo 1 below) and exit the wood here, then turn left and walk along the edge of the wood. Look for the finger post that shows a junction of footpaths and turn right across the field, to a gate. Go through it, then over the footbridge. Turn right and then shortly left uphill heading for a gap in the hedge. Go through this and follow this track to the road. This is Back Lane. Turn right and walk along the road for 0.5 miles until you reach a sign for ‘The Byre’. Turn right up the drive. You are now on the Heart of England Way, a major footpath. Just follow the clear path and well-marked signs through several gates and fields (for 0.75 miles) until you reach Church Lane. Turn right. You can take a little detour; go into the church grounds, walk round the back and enjoy the great views over to Birmingham and beyond. Otherwise carry on up Church Lane, ignoring the footpath on the right through the farm. Where the road takes a sharp left turn, just after Fentham, go up the path and through the gate. Keep to the right of the electric fence, shortly turning left onto a track which you follow. Go through one gate and keep going until you see the gate in photo 2 below. Go through this and follow the left field edge back to where you exited the wood earlier. Enter the wood and retrace your steps to the start. Photo 1
Photo 2
************************************************************* Lockdown Christmas There will be no nativity this year because the3 Wise Men face a travel ban. The shepherds have been furloughed. The inn keeper had shut under tier 3 regulations and had a slump of bookings. Santa won’t be working as he’d break the ‘Rule of 6’ with Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Donner & Blitzen. As for Rudolph, with that red nose, he should be isolating and taking a test. Thanks to Lis Willis (Facebook)
Binley Foodbank Donations A huge ‘Thank You’ to the wonderful community of Meriden for your help in food bank donations in October. We took down over 100Kg of food and toiletries to the Binley food bank, which was greatly received and will go far to help those in need. A great example of a community pulling together – one that I am proud to be part of. Many thanks again. Charlotte
Your Top ‘Go-to’ Advice on Health and Wellbeing during the COVID-19 Outbreak It is important to look after yourself during this outbreak and the following websites can help:
This is a hard time for everyone and it’s normal to feel down sometimes. There are many things you can do to support your wellbeing. Please visit www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/ A new local NHS mental health support service offers emotional help, guidance and reassurance to people who may be finding the current situation overwhelming. The Solihull helplines are: 0-19 yr olds - Mon-Fri (8am-8pm): 0121 301 2750 - Weekends/evenings (8pm-8am): 0121 301 5500 11-25 yr olds- Counselling and support 24/7: www.kooth.com Over 18s - 7 days a week (9am-11pm): 0121 262 3555 Key workers - 7 days a week (9am-11pm): 0121 633 1217
Stopping smoking
Staying Active at Home We're all now spending a lot more time at home and that means it’s getting harder to keep active. Find ideas at www.solihullactive.co.uk
Smokers are more susceptible to viruses and smoking can worsen or prolong respiratory conditions. You can self-refer to Gateway using the Freephone no. 0800 599 9880 to start your quit journey by phone or Skype. Or visit: www.gatewayfs.org/our-work/health-and-well being-services/solihull-lifestyle-service/
When things feel really tough….
Solihull Integrated Addiction Services (SIAS) If you are in need of support or advice around alcohol or substance misuse, please contact SIAS in confidence on 0121 301 4141 or visit www.sias-solihull.org.uk
Samaritans can listen at any time of the day or night. You can talk to them about anything that's troubling you. Call free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org
Domestic Abuse This time can be challenging for adults and children living with domestic abuse and for many survivors, staying home may not be the safest option. If you or someone else is in immediate danger please call 999 and ask for the police. You can phone a 24 hour helpline on 0808 2000 247 or visit www.solihull.gov.uk/domesticabuse
Staying at Home with Children Staying at home can bring a range of challenges, bored and frustrated children and increasing demands on parents and carers. For advice on managing this time at home, please visit www.solgrid.org.uk/fivetothrive/parenting/
For general advice on the outbreak please visit www.gov.uk or www.solihull.gov.uk
Meriden’s own Christmas Cards A selection of designs available from: Lloyds Chemist and Budgens This year’s special card Prices. Pack of 5 £ 1.50 Pack of 10 £ 3.00 Pack of 20 £ 6.00
Reminder deadline for the spring 2021 issue Monday February 1st Delivery will be around 1st March Val Martin 01676 522963 val.simon@btinternet.com Chris Bannister 07789903021 chrisbannister56@aol.com Distribution Paul Green, Mavis & Ken Edwards Proof reader Sue Fuller Mag advertising rates Eighth page £11 Quarter page £22 Half page £44
Last Posting Dates for Christmas As supplied by the Royal Mail Friday 18th December 2nd Class and 2nd Class signed for Monday 21st December 1st Class and 1st Class signed for Tuesday 22nd December Royal Mail Tracked 24 Wednesday 23rd December Special Delivery Guaranteed
Meriden Primary School Meriden Library Meriden Surgery Lloyds Chemist Meriden Methodist Church Meriden Village Hall bookings Member of Parliament Parish Council
Mrs L. Anderton
Methodist Hall bookings Solihull M B C Solihull District Councillors
Alan Gabbitas
Meriden Scout Group Post Office Rural Police Sector
Rev. Jane Braund Valerie Martin Saqib Bhatti Barbara Bland
Ken Allsopp Diane Howell Tony Dicicco Gerry Russell Sue Harper
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Meriden Rotary Santa Santa Fun Fun Run Run 2020 2020 As we are currently under COVID-19 restrictions restrictions the the 99thth Meriden Meriden Santa Santa Fun Fun Run Run cannot cannot be held in its usual way. However, we wanted wanted to to let let you you know know the the plan plan for for this this year’s year’s Santa Fun Run and that it complies with with the the current current COVID-19 COVID-19 requirements requirements observing observing social distancing. Please check our website www. meriden-santa-fun-run.org.uk meriden-santa-fun-run.org.uk for for details details regarding regardingthe the run, run, registration, Santa suit distribution and and fund fund raising. raising. The Rotary Club of Meriden would like to to thank thank everyone everyone who who has has supported supportedour our Event Eventfor forthe thepast past88 years. This year we will once again be fund raising raising for for Marie Marie Curie Curie and and other other Rotary Rotary supported supported charities charitiesand and we would be delighted if you can take take part part and and raise raise money money for for these these charities charities through throughsponsorship. sponsorship.
How our Santa Fun Fun Run Run 2020 2020 will will work work
You choose the date between 1stst and and 24 24thth December December to to run/walk/cycle run/walk/cycle 4.5 4.5 kilometres kilometres You choose the location and route you you prefer prefer You You can can do do this this on on your your own own or or in in your your “bubble” “bubble”and andeven even include include your your dog dog You You register register as as normal normal on on our our website website and andpay paythe the registration registration fee fee £12 £12 adult/£6 adult/£6 children children You You will will receive receive notification notification when when and andwhere whereyou youcan cancollect collect your your Santa Santa suit/suits suit/suits Dressed Dressed in in your your Santa Santa suit/suits suit/suits we we would wouldbe bepleased pleasedto to receive receive photographs photographs either either before, before, during during or orafter afteryou youfinish finish your your Santa Santa Fun Fun Run Run to to publish publish on on our our website. website.