MeridenMag Autumn 2023

See inside for lots of autumn events in the Village and photographs of Picnic in the

Autumn Events

Village Charity Quiz

Saturday 28th October 7.00 for 7.30pm prompt start

Meriden Village Hall

Teams of six (maximum)

Includes a hot supper

Bring your own drinks & snacks

£12 per person in aid of Meriden ‘Tree of Thought’

For tickets, please contact richardking54@gmail.com

donwhite897@gmail.com

Churches Together

Harvest Supper

Friday 6th October 7.00pm Meriden Methodist Church. cold ‘banquet’ and hot and cold deserts, tea and coffee

£8 per person

To book please call 01676 522 160 or 522 148

Film Shows at the Village Hall all at 7.30pm

Saturday 16th September

Saturday 21st October

Saturday 18th November

Warwickshire Watercolourists’

Art Exhibition

Bank Holiday 26th– 28th August 2023

B erkswell Readi ng

Rooms

Meriden Road Berkswell

CV7 7BE

10.00am -5.00pm daily

Free Entrance

Over 200 items of unique art work on display for the fir st time, most for sale, (cash or cheque only) together with a wide range of prints and cards

This year’s special raffle prize – an original Trevor Boult painting, kindly donated, with proceeds to Dementia UK

Refreshments available; proceeds to charity.

Ample free parking & disabled access

Additional free parking available in the rear car park at ‘The Bear’

For further infor mation please email -

WarwickshireWatercolourists@gmail.com

“In the Pink and Blue Evening “

Manor Hotel Sunday 22nd Oc tober From 6.30pm

Tickets £12.50 each available from Sue 01676 522540

Carol01676522888

We will be entertained by Gareth Williams

(Lesley Smit h’s husband), who will be assuming

the mantle of King Charles II

Lots of pre - Christmas shopping opportuni es available

Firebird Singers Update

We would like to thank everyone who attended our June concerts, which finished our season of support for Coventry and Warwickshire MIND. We are very proud to announce that we have been able to present MIND with a cheque for £5,000.

We were also delighted to sing at ‘Picnic in the Park’ in July, a lovely sunny event for the whole Village. (Picture below)

We are now looking forward to our September concert entitled ‘Divas and Legends Volume 2’ again at the Manor Hotel. (See poster on events page) Our charity for the 2023/24 season is The Air Ambulance, a very worthy cause I am sure you will agree. Please come along and support us! This year we have also been able to donate £500 towards the refurbishment of new toilets at the Village Hall and £500 to ‘Rallie for Hallie’ a fund set up to help get treatment for a toddler with leukaemia.

Valerie Martin 01676 522963

Saturday 16th September

A Man Called Orro (12A)

Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks) the neighbourhood grump, has given up on life following the death of his wife. When a lively young family moves in next door, Otto meets his match in a sunny quick witted pregnant, woman called Marisol (Mariana Trevino). Their situation leads to an unlikely friendship that turns his world upside down. There is comedy and pathos in turns as Hanks depicts the curmudgeon with brilliance and Mariano Trevino shines as the winningly sunny Marisol, in this thought provoking yet ultimately cheering film.

Saturday 21st October

“Allelujah” (12A)

Tickets are available from Chris Copper - £6 each.

Telephone 01676 522645 / 07721 342127 or Emailchriscopper42@me.com

NB. Dates may be subject to change so please check when booking.

Based on the recent National Theatre play written by Alan Bennett, “Alleluia” is a warm, deeply moving and topical film. It features a stellar cast including Jennifer Saunders, David Jacobi and Dame Judi Dench. The film is set in the geriatric ward of a small Yorkshire hospital, populated by lovable eccentrics. When the hospital is threatened with closure, it decides to fight back by galvanising the local community. They invite a news crew to film their preparation for a concert to be held in honour of the hospital’s most distinguished nurse. What could possibly go wrong! There is much that is poignant and much that is comic, delivering Bennett’s original voice from The 2018 work in spades. However, the film then delivers a chilling twist in the depiction of an unforeseen and life changing catastrophe that even Alan Bennett could not have predicted.

Saturday 18th November Film TBC

“An injury is much sooner forgotten than an insult.” –Lord Chesterfield

DOGGY DAY CARE

DOGGY DAY CARE

Days, weekends or longer.

In our home – stress fr ee, non-kennel environment.

Only limited numbers of friendly dogs at any one

time. Highly experienced show exhibitor/trainer and dog breeder.

Excellent affordable ra tes.

TEL: 01676 522466 (Meriden)

Berkswell Windmill – Open Day

Saturday 9 th September 12 - 4pm.

£5 cash entry for adults. Free for children. This includes a guided tour. Come and enjoy a cream tea and some music.

Last chance to see the windmill this year.

M.J. Mowing

martin@mjmowing.co.uk

Grass Cutting Hedg e Cutting

Pruning Strimming

Weed Control – P esticide Licensed

L eaves Cl eared

No J ob Too Small

Competi tive Prices

Call Martin for a Free Quo te 07922 241 181

Larch Tree Osteopathic Practice

We offer a gentle and effective method of pain relief, suitable for adults and children. Can help many conditions, including joint pain, arthritis, sciatica and sports injuries.

Liam Halton B.Sc. (Hons) Ost, 49 Larch Tree Ave. Tile Hill, COVENTRY CV4 9FT

www.larchtreeost.co.uk

TEL: 024 7647 0019

Indi Sangha

Window Cleaning and

Jet Washin g Servic es

Serving Meriden and Milli son’s Wood area for o ver 20 years

Call 07949 227402

Berkswell & District History Group

Wednesday 25th October –

Powder Treason. An Illustrated Talk on the Bonfire Night Events of 1605 by Paul Thomson. This will be a highly entertaining and educational presentation with refreshments provided.

Meetings are held in the Village Hall, Station Rd, Balsall Common at 2 p.m. Entry is £5 for non-members and free to members. Why not join the History Group? Membership is only £20

per annum and you can join at any meeting. Have a look at our web site. www.berkswell-history.org

We look forward to seeing you!

Meriden Surgery 01676 522252

School House, 200 Main Road, Meriden, CV7 7NG

Dr M Bhandal

Dr T Nadeem Dr R Horsley (Partners)

Associates GPs Dr.A Omokanye, Dr A Blaggan Dr N Hudders

www.balsallcommongrouppractice.co.uk

Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00noon

For details on how to obtain medical help when the surgery is closed, please phone 01676 935000

GOODBYE

It is time for me to say ‘goodbye’ to the Balsall Common and Meriden Group Practice. I started working at the Balsall Common Group Practice on 6 th September 1999, joining the partnership of Drs Chris Kirkham, Mike Matthews, Peter Lea and Anne Vallet. It has been my pleasure and honour to represent the amazing team at the Balsall Common and Meriden Group Practice as Practice Manager and more recently the Business Manager, and to support patients at both th e Balsall Common and Meriden Surgeries.

On the 25th July 2023 I leave the practice and move to a new challenge at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. I would like to send my best wishes for the future to all staff and patients.

Kind regards Joanne Hope

COVID SPRING BOOSTER VACCINATIONS

The Spring COVID Vaccination Campaign finished on 30th June 2023: - there will be another vaccination campaign starting in the autumn. When more information is available this will be detailed on the Practice website.

If you have any questions, please email nhsbsolicb.balsall.covid@nhs.net

CHANGES TO OUR APPOINTMENT BOOKING

The Practice has also had to say ‘goodbye’ to a member of our Administration Team, Jane. We would like to wish her the very best in her future ventures.

NEW SERVICE OPERATING

Are you experiencing muscle or joint pain?

You can now see a Specialist Physiotherapist at the Balsall Common Surgery.

The Physio will support you in being referred for further treatment, helping with pain relief, managing/improving your condition and discuss any worries or concerns.

Please ask one of our receptionists to book an appointment.

Our Extended Access Service has changed site, the service will no longer operate from Dorridge Surgery from 03.07.2023.

The Extended Access Service will be based at the Balsall Common Health Centre, all other arrangements remain the same. Please continue to book into this service via our Reception Team.

We now offer all urgent on the day appointments as face-to-face appointments. All appointments are to be booked via telephone only.

Telephone appointments are available as a pre-bookable option; however, these are now unable to be scheduled as an urgent on the day appointment option.

General Practices are open and we are here for you when you need us.

To keep you and everyone safe appointments are being triaged This helps us to give you the correct type of appointment that you need whether that is for patients to be seen in person, a telephone consultation, video consultation or advice from your local Pharmacy. We are continuing to follow all National Guidelines that are provided for all GP Practices across the UK along with the ever-changing COVID 19 regulations.

We are continuing to encourage our face covering policy: this is to continue to protect our staff and visitors that are attending the Practice.

All up-to -date Practice Information can be found on our website www.balsallcommonsurgery.co.uk

Defibrillator installed in the Village, outside the Heart of England Social Club

This defibrillator has been paid for with donations in memory of Sue Pointon. Her family would like to thank everyone who donated so generously.

A message from Lloyds Chemist On the Green

We are very sorry for the delay in our take-over, this is unfortunately just down to red tape. In the meantime, we are continuing to serve you and hope to have some more information and a date for the new company soon.

*Dog Walker * Pet Sitting Services

DBS Checked, Insured & Pet First Aid

Qualified

Email: tilliestailwaggingwalkies@gmail.com

Website: www.tilliestailwaggingwalkies.co.uk

Rural Group Walks, Individual Solo Walks, Puppy Visits & Pet Sitting

Contact Dawn NOW to book your dog in Telephone :07825 684 539

Lavender Hall Lane Berkswell CV7 7BN

01676 530 299 / 07949 119 436

Cafe open to the public from 8.30am – 1.30pm 7 days a week

Serving hot and cold food

Specialising in an all-day Breakfast

Take out orders very welcome

Come and enjoy our freshly ground coffee and cakes

Gates open at 8.00am and close at dusk

aughton Bespoke

Sycamore trees are common in the UK and there are many examples in and around Meriden. So, you may be surprised to learn that sycamore is considered to be an invasive species in the UK, not native Native trees are those that became

established in the British Isles when the last Ice-Age ended and before the UK split off from mainland Europe. As the earth warmed and ice began to melt and retreat, around 11,000 years ago, species began to recolonise the frozen land from the warmer south. Sycamore is native to central Europe and Western Asia, it’s uncertain exactly when it was introduced to the UK but it’s certainly much later than that. There are theories it was introduced by the Romans, wandering monks or possibly knights returning from the crusades bringing what was considered a sacred tree - it’s believed Mary and Jospeh rested beneath sycamore trees when fleeing to Egypt escaping Herod’s slaughter of the innocents in Bethlehem. Currently it’s thought that sycamore was introduced in the 1500s with widespread planting in parks and gardens in the 1700s. Sycamore spreads prolifically and by the mid-1800s it was naturalised, spreading wild in the UK, by far our commonest maple.

The sycamore is a tall, domed tree (growing up to 35metres) of the maple family. The bark is smooth when young, becoming rougher with age and breaking up into scales, exposing the pale brown/pinkish inner bark. Twigs are pink-brown and hairless.

The thick, leathery leaves of the sycamore are produced in opposite pairs, and are a dark

long and broad with 5 pointed lobes and coarsely serrated. When the leaves shed, they leave horseshoe shaped leaf scars on the stem. The yellow-green flowers arrive later, in May or June, emerging from pink buds in loose branching

60 -100 with both male and female flowers on every tree. Self-pollination is undesirable as it would produce limited genetic variation and therefore weaker progeny. So on each tree male and female flowers open at different times.

After pollination by wind and insects, flowers develop into distinctive winged fruits known as samaras or, to children, keys or helicopters! Wind sends them spiralling away, dispersing widely. The seeds are very fertile and can thrive in inhospitable conditions.

Native wildlife has co-existed and evolved together forming self-sustaining eco systems. Nonnative species bring variables which can upset that balance, well known examples being Japanese knot weed that spreads uncontrollably and grey squirrels that have spread disease to and outcompete their red cousins, which are endangered as a result. Conservationists tend to regard sycamore as equally unwelcome. Very fertile and spreading so effectively, it’s colonised woodlands to the detriment of native species, the heavy leaves and dense canopy smothering and depriving seedling of other species and ground flora of light. It’s argued that in the UK (as opposed to its native range) it supports only a small number of insect species, about 5. However,

it has a larger range of leafhoppers than the native field maple.and is attractive to aphids and therefore a variety of their predators - ladybirds, hoverflies and birds. The leaves are eaten by caterpillars including those of the sycamore moth, plumed prominent and maple prominent. The flowers provide a good source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects, and the seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals, for example, voles and dormice. So not completely useless!

If you’re interested in our trees, local wildlife and conservation in general, it would be great to hear from you. Or visit the Facebook page Meriden and Millisons Wood Trees Dates for conservation work parties in Millisons Wood are also notified there.

Sarah Sharland meridentreewardens@gmail.com

Sycamore, Hampton Lane

Strawberry Bank

Sycamore Bark Sycamore Leaf Sycamore Flower Sycamore Seed Sycamore Moth Bank Vole

Meriden and Millisons Wood

Greetings from Sue, Carol and the Meriden Committee!

We hope you have managed to grab some sunshine in between the dark clouds and heavy bursts of rain that this summer has provided – we are pleased to report that the sun did shine on our Open Garden event. Our intrepid gardeners worked so hard to prepare their displays, alternately protecting their plants from blazing sunshine, wind and thunderstorms and managed to put on a spectacular show for the village.

We would like to pass on a big “THANK YOU” to everyone that made this event such a great success. To all the garden owners who opened on the day, to the many helping hands at the Village Hall and the various refreshment stops and stalls around the gardens, to Knowle Goldsmiths, Walter Smith Butchers, Barretts’ Sausages, Elaine & Brian Ball, Pauline & Bill Gibson and Hillier Garden Centre for plant and raffle prize donations and of course, to all of you who turned out on the day to visit some or all of the gardens. With all of your support, we managed to raise over £5,000 for Cancer Research UK, a record amount for this event for us, thank you all once again! Hopefully we’ll be repeating Open Gardens in 2025 – if it made you think you would like to open your garden in the future, it’s never too early to get involved, please contact Sue.

Hot on the heels of our Open Gardens was the village “Picnic in the Park.” We were happy to be able to support this event, encouraging people to chance their arm at our Coconut Shy. This proved to be particularly popular amongst the younger generation who helped clear us out of nuts by mid-afternoon and raise over £200 for CRUK. Thanks to everyone who had a go and if they didn’t manage to win a nut, better luck next time!

We will be back at the Manor Hotel on Sunday 22nd October for our annual “In the Pink and Blue” event. This year we will be royally entertained by Gareth Williams (Lesley Smith’s husband), who will be assuming the mantle of our current Kings’ namesake predecessor, Charles II. As usual there will be many interesting stalls providing pre-Christmas purchasing opportunities. Doors open at 6.30pm and tickets cost £12.50 each. Contact Sue, Carol or any committee member to book your ticket.

Our Christmas Party is at the Heart of England Social Club on 9th December: - further details will appear in the next Meriden Mag, around the village and on Facebook nearer the time.

We would be pleased to see you at any, or all, of our events as we work to raise funds for CRUK. Every 2 minutes someone in the UK receives a cancer diagnosis and we believe that together we can beat cancer sooner. If you want to sponsor, support, or have suggestions for future events, please call Sue or Carol, we would be happy to hear from you. In the meantime, we wish you a lovely autumn; the season of mellow fruitfulness. Looking at the hedgerows around Meriden, it looks like it could be a plentiful one!

Minister Rev. Jane Braund

Tel: 01676 533737

Please phone to arrange marriages, baptisms and funerals

Services: Sunday 10:30am. In

Greetings from the Methodist Church

Meriden

Over the next few weeks many churches will be celebrating Harvest Festival In Meriden, the Methodist Church will be joining with the congregation at St Laurence for their thanksgiving service, as we give thanks to God for the Harvest, on 24th September Part of our response to God’s goodness is to thank him for all that he has given us Many people around the world, including in this country, do not have enough to eat and so another part of our response is to share what we have with others. There will be opportunities for those attending the service to bring tinned or dried foods so that the items can be shared amongst those who don’t have enough to eat This service at St Laurence begins at 10 30am.

The Bible also talks about the harvest we can produce in our own lives Jesus uses the story of the Sower to illustrate this, and it can be found in both Matthew’s and Mark’s gospel. Some of the seed the Sower has scattered falls on the path and Jesus likens it to birds seeing it and eating It meaning that we hear the good news but then immediately forget it He then says some of the seed falls in rocky places where there is not much soil so when the sun comes out it scorches the plants and Jesus likened this to when difficult times come, because we have responded to his invitation but have not put down roots, we fall away. He then says some of the seeds fell among thorns, and goes on to say that it is like those who have too many distractions, who worry and who are seeking after wealth and things the world holds dear – they get choked by it all and fall away. Finally, some of the seed falls on good soil and produces a harvest – these he says are the ones who have responded to God and are now in a relationship with him and enjoying a fruitful life They are producing a harvest that yields 30%, 60% or even 100%.

Each one of us is offered the same seed – a life of relationship with God How we respond is up to each one of us, but Jesus came to bring us life and life in all its fullness In September, the Alpha Course will be starting in the village and should you want to know more about the life Jesus offers then please come along to this course or any future ones that are being run

We would also love to see you at any of the services in the village Every month at the Methodist Church they are held at 4 pm on the first Sunday, and 10 30am on the second, third and fifth Sundays and 10 30am at St Laurence’s on the fourth Sunday. We are also holding our Harvest Supper this year on 6th October at 7 pm and look forward to seeing you then If you are around on the second Friday of every month between 2pm and 4pm it would be lovely to meet you over a cup of coffee or tea at the Altogether Café held at the Pavilion.

With love Jane

Heart of England Social Club

BERKSWELL ROAD MERIDEN CV7 7LB. Call Steve on 01676 522430

The club is now offering food Monday - Friday 12 noon - 3.00pm.

Classic Burger, fries, side salad & relish

Lasagne, side salad & garlic bread slice

Panini/toasted sandwich & salad - Cheese & Ham/Cheese & Onion/ Tuna Melt / Cheese & Tomato Sandwiches served with salad & crisps.

ALL MEALS SERVED WITH A SOFT DRINK £5.00 WITH ALCOHOLIC DRINK £7.00

Bingo every Friday night first game 8.00pm, all welcome.

Bingo & Afternoon Tea every Wednesday 12.30pm £7.00

Thursday 21st September Curry & Quiz Night

Friday 6th October "UB4T Tribute Reggae Night" Doors open

7.30pm, tickets £5.00

Saturday 28th October " Halloween Party Night"

Bookings now being taken for Xmas Party Nights - Contact Steve

Room dressing and catering available for your party or function

1st Meriden Beavers

We’ve had a lovely half-term at Beavers The children all enjoyed a hike during the nice weather, particularly since it ended at the park with an ice-lolly! They also earned their Experiment Badge, undertaking 3 highly scientific experiments - we poured warm water onto Skittles (diffusion and water stratification), we made mini zip lines (gravity and friction) and we made Oobleck (Non-Newtonian liquids). Hopefully the children learned something, as well as having fun making a mess!

In the last week of term, we had a party and said ‘goodbye’ to some of our older Beavers who are now ready to move up to Cubs. We do have some children on our waiting list who will be invited to join us in September, but there might still be some spaces in our Colony. Beavers is for children aged 6-8, so if you have a child who’d like to get involved, please let me know. As usual, I’d like to put a shout out for regular adult help. If you’d be interested in joining the Scouting Movement and becoming a Beaver Leader, do please get in touch with me or Gerry. Eleanor.

1st Meriden C ubs

We started the year with 22 cubs and ended the year with 25, and they all turn up every week apart from school outings and feeling unwell, so we must be doing something right! And I must admit the summer term has definitely been our busiest We produced some amazing artwork for the Kings Coronation and had it displayed at the village’s art exhibition We had an amazing evening organised by Emmie Isham telling us of the dangers of CO Gas so we backed that knowledge up with the Home Safety badge. We also had our first camp at the hut, x 22 8-10yrs olds in tents, some for the first time, what could possibly go wrong Nothing apart from lack of sleep! But perfect training for what was to come in July.

One of the hottest days of the year and we were given the chance to visit Berkswell Church, built in the time of William the Conqueror and having its own perfectly preserved crypt with a temperature of unbelievable relief from the heat outside, but it also had the wow factor!

They wanted to camp so off we went, back to my home ground to a camp called Evolution at Cirencester Park Gloucestershire, 800 cubs and nearly as many leaders The main event was the challenge, walking over 8 miles per team and passing checkpoints along their way, they had to win points as they went Four Meriden teams entered (yes, another 22 children on camp, but this time they were little angels, phew), they came back exhausted and even didn’t moan about the food they were given from the central catering team onsite Fun and disco’s, crafts and even donkeys appeared during the remainder of the camp. We were all so proud of them, their behaviour, attitude, everything really, and then the presentation happened Meriden Cubs came 15 out of 95 teams in the accompanied team. The other three teams came 21st, 8th and 1st the overall winners in the unaccompanied teams What an amazing achievement by all and bringing back a beautiful trophy, soo proud of all of them. We finished off the year with kayaking with Solihull Canoe club, they were a bit small but no one got too wet and lots of laughing going on.

To put the icing on the cake for the leaders, seven of the eldest cubs achieved their Silver Award, the highest award for a cub to achieve Congratulations to Sam, Oscar, Diana, Oakley, Freddie, Daniel and Alex. You have been a pleasure to have as cubs and the leadership team wish you all the best up at Scouts

A big thank you to Caz. Dan, Skye, Sharon and my young leaders, Cerys, Erin & Henry, without these volunteers Meriden Cubs would just not happen Lynda

1st Meriden Scouts

The final term of the Scout Calendar has seen us undertake quite a lot of varied things

The Scouts have increasingly been working on their navigation skills; going on challenge walks over the local countryside on their own, navigating between checkpoints where they have undertaken various tasks They managed this without getting very lost, so the practice is paying off They’ve improved their fire-lighting skills and found out that every part of a dandelion is edible (fhe fritters made from the flowers went down quite well). We’ve had nights when they’ve practised their first aid, and others when they’ve built drawbridges

One of the highlights was a joint Scout camp with Sandwell Scouts at Kinver Scout Campsite in South Staffordshire They cooked on open fires, built natural shelters, played lots of wide games, and navigated over Kinver Edge.

The term culminated in paddle boarding at Shustoke reservoir Everyone got wet, but had a great time When the new term starts, we’re hoping to build on all these skills again and go on more camps.

If you think Scouting’s for you get in touch or pop along on a Tuesday evening and give it a try. If Bear Grylls dares, why don’t you? -

1st Meriden Explorers

Numbers have increased this last term with several of the older Scouts moving up to Explorers We’ve maintained a balanced programme of activities, ranging from cooking, a scrap/recycled material fashion night to pushing forward on tasks to support their DofE Bronze award

To support their DofE training we undertook a mini expedition where they started 9 miles from the Scout Hut and spent the day navigating their own way back to the Headquarters carrying all their own kit Upon reaching the HQ, they pitched their own tents for the night and cooked on camp stoves

We also had a trip up to North Wales for a day walking in the mountains followed by a river walk and an exploration of an abandoned mine shaft Everyone had a wonderful experience

We finished the term with an evening of sailing at Shustoke reservoir A great time was had by all

Next term we’ll be working more towards their DofE and their expedition Mark

Meriden Library News

Telephone :01676

522717

Please note, all information is accurate at the time of writing.

Meriden Library is open to everybody – you can read and borrow books, access the internet and PCs, or just sit and relax, all for free. If you aren’t a member already, all you need to join is something official with your address on, like a utility bill or driving licence.

Opening Hour s

Monday 10am – 1pm, 2pm – 5pm

Tuesday 10am – 12:30pm

Thursday 10am – 12:30pm

Children’s Board Games Session

To celebrate International Games Month, join us on Mon 13th Nov at 3:45pm to play a fun new children’s board game from the libraries’ collection. Suitable for ages 5 and over; adults must stay with their children in the library while they play.

Halloween Crafts

Drop into the library in half term on Mon 30th or Tues 31st Oct, or Thurs 2nd Nov to make some fun crafts at the spookiest time of the year! Suitable for ages 5 and over, accompanied by an adult.

Meriden Library has fr ee computer and internet access

If you have a library card, you can use one of the public computers at the library. If you’re not yet a member, joining the library is free, easy and quick. Up to 3 hours free internet access for library members or 15 minutes use of quick access PC for all (no library membership required). We also offer printing facilities (charges apply), scanning facilities and Wi-Fi access

Computers are available until 15 minutes before the library closes, and staff are always on hand to help if needed.

Stori es & Painting

Our exciting children’s activity is aimed at preschool children and takes place every Monday, 2:15 - 3pm. Every week we read one of our favourite stories and enjoy painting pictures We recommend wearing clothes that it’s okay to get messy in.

Board Game Drop-In

We’ll have some board games for adults out on a table in the library to drop in and play between 10am and 1pm on Mon 13th Nov to celebrate International Games Month.

A Warm Welcome

As part of offering a warm welcome to everybody who comes through our door,

Meriden Library is providing both warm and cold drinks to library customers. There is no charge for this, but donations are welcome if you wish.

Learn My Way

Would you like to improve your computer skills? We offer free training using the Learn My Way website with staff to guide you. Sessions can be tailored to meet your needs and skill level, from creating documents to staying safe online. You can improve your workplace IT skills with our help. Sessions run on Tuesday and Thursday mornings 10am – 11am, with booking in advance required. Contact library staff for more details

Readers’ Circle Meetings

Wed 13th September

– A celebrity author.

Wed 11th October

– A personal interest/passion.

Wed 8th November

– My favourite author.

For further information and the venue, please call Peter Moss on 01676 523590

Book Review by Joan Jones

Peter James

Dead Tomorrow

Peter James is a prolific crime writer His stories are set in Brighton, where he lives

Chief Superintendent Roy Grace heads a team of officers who form part of each story. Occasionally, a crime can come to light and involve another country, this being the case with Dead Tomorrow.

Three bodies are discovered, weighted down, at Shoreham on Sea harbour It soon becomes obvious that child trafficking is taking place for corrupt organ transplantation.

Part of the story takes place in Romania and Bucharest. It is quite explicit in places.

Keep up to date with news from Meriden Library by liking us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/meridenlib and visiting our website at www.solihull.gov.uk/Libraries

This is a well written story that gains speed and has an exciting conclusion.

In my opinion, the ITV ‘Grace’ production of these stories is a poor representation of the books

QUEEN’S H EAD

QUEEN’S H EAD

Afriendly,traditional, local pub offering a full range oftraditional ales,beers and lagers as well as wines, spirits and soft drinks.

Afriendly,traditional, local pub offering a full range oftraditional ales,beers and lagers as well as wines, spirits and soft drinks.

Pub lunches are served Mondays to Saturdays from12noontill 2.30pm.

Pub lunches are served Mondays to Saturdays from12noontill 2.30pm.

Great value daily specials.

Great value daily specials.

Comealong and enjoy

Comealong and enjoy

Good Beer,Good Food,

Good Beer,Good Food,

Good Company and a

Good Company and a

GreatAtmosphere.

GreatAtmosphere.

Boiler servicing and repairs

Boiler replacements

New radiators and valves

All plumbing work carried out Fully qualified in Natural Gas and LPG

Under floor heating New bathrooms 01676 523192 home 07970 119142 mobile

email :aguaflameuk@gmail.com

Terry G riffiths

HS2-Notice ofBridleway diversionnear

Berkswell – until 16th July 2025

What do farmers wearunder their shirt whenthey’re cold? Ah ar-vest

News from HS2 Railway Action Group Theviaducts willbesome of the more intrusive parts ofHS2. The one at BalsallCommon came before SolihullPlanningCommittee in June andwas "deferred" Councillors onthe Committee weren't impressedwith either the design or the levelofcommunityconsultation Ittook some strong speeches,including the readingofaletterfromourM.P., SaqibBhatti, togetthat result . Disappointingly, the recent in-depth examination by the PlanningCommittee didn'tseem toget passed up thetreeeither, as 2days after the decision, the Council Leaderwasstillimplying the lackofconsultation was only "felt" bylocal communities,rather than amatterofhardfact. A Planningapplication for the Blythe Valley viaduct at Hampton-in-Arden willbe coming soon A recent consultationevent was poorlyattended,andonly10%ofattendees providedfeedback. The great majorityof those were over64years old,and nonethought HS2was makingapositive contributionto the area. As presented, theviaduct looksthesame "procession ofconcrete Vee-signs" as proposedat BalsallCommon. The benchmark forwhat couldbe done witha viaduct isthe one at Colne Valley,ontheedge of London,wherethesections overdryland arestrictlycomparable with theviaducts here The moreefficientstructuraldesignusedin London would needjust 7 piers,whilethe current Blythe offering needs 17. In London, the apparent depthof theviaduct is reducedby using noise barriersthat aretransparent.HS2 tell usthatthese won't absorb thenoise,but onthe Continent, theydo! Similarly,HS2 haven't offeredit,butthe concrete couldbe coloured,orcladwithbrickpanels.HS2 Ltd.place greatstore ontheir "Independent" Design Panel. Beneath theveneerhowever,it looks like a self-perpetuatingquango. Mercifully, their views are hardlyrelevant,as Parliament ordained those oflocalresidentsshould take precedence It's hard to tellwhat will become of the BalsallCommon design,butthe outcome willreadacrossto the Blythe Valley. Some improvements are fairly simple,andmightsave money. A standard noise barrier solution wouldlookbetter,andbring economies of scale. Nordowe knowhowHS2willimprove "engagement" When anevent is held, the communityreally needstogoalongand puttheiropinion in writing. Youngerpeopleshouldrealisethattheviaducts are going tobethere for the whole of their lives,and their views doactuallycount. As itstands,it's likely Solihullwill take on boardrepresentations fromParish Councils andwardcouncillors, soit's importantthat residents feed theiropinions back to theirrepresentatives Noise is less ofan issue inthe area southof the A45,because fewpeople livenear the line However, some isolated properties willbe affected,andpeople outdoors are going tohear thetrains overawide area. It'seasier tocontainnoise ifbarriers are placed near thesource,and "off the peg" designs are available Newhousingis proposed400 to800metres from the line,and noise protection won't bethe responsibilityofHS2 Ltd. There will need tobe cooperationtogetthe bestsolution at areasonable cost for the future house-buyers. Readers mayhavenoticed that darkclouds are again gatheringover the project The Infrastructure andProjects Authority,has called the project "unachievable",in particulargettinginto Euston What weexperience is amicrocosmof the overallproject,and the Euston bombsite couldbe replicatedmany times overif the rugis pulled.Perhaps lessons will be learnt from the Solihulldecisionto examine HS2proposals more closely.

Richard Lloyd – Chairman H of E High Speed Railway Action Group

News from HS2 Ltd and Partner Balfour Beaty Vinci (BBV)

Kenilworth Greenway

You maybe awarethatthe access to the Kenilworth Greenwayis floodedandhas beenunpassable foryears We are delighted to informyouthat we have built a new temporaryfootpath nextto the haulroad that connects Station Rd. to thetemporary Greenway.

BBVwork verycloselywithcommunitygroups andlocal schools. We were recently askedbyHeart of England Schoolifwe couldprovide ALL year10pupils witha workplaceexperience. Overa4dayperiod,160pupils had the chancetolearn aboutvarious careers inthe construction industryand the different pathways into those careers. Theymet withmembers of theteamandgottoquiz themon what roletheyhave withinthe industry. Theymet with engineers, ecologists,Healthand Safetymanagers,designers,andmanymore at different points intheircareer, fromourapprenticesup toour seniorleadership team. The pupilsthentookpart in an interactive STEM(Science, Technology, EngineeringandMathematics) task. STEMfocuses on practicallearning, todevelop thenecessarycommunication, collaboration andcritical thinking skillstopreparethemfor the realworld. The pupils were given a STEMkit (basically,abigMeccano set)andhad toworkas a team tobuildawheelbarrowcapable of transportingmany soft balls across an obstacle course. There were,ofcourse, tears and tantrums but,by theendof the task, theyhadworkedoutthe importance ofplanning,working together,listening to eachother,andlearning whenthings hadn’t quite gonetoplan Allpupils completed thetaskandgot toracetheir‘imaginatively’ designedwheelbarrows

BoatsbyJulieHyde

Summer has been with us and, on one of my trips to the seaside,I saw these lovely boats, solet’s try to paintthem! You will need watercolour paperand paints

1. Lightly draw the boats.They arealmost horizontalso don’tmake them slope too much.

2.Maskout theinsideedgesof the boats, ropes and a few dashes in the water (shown in pink). Wet your brush and roll it in soapfirst before dipping it into the masking fluid to protect your brush.If you don’t have masking fluid, then you will have to be very careful around the top edgesof the boats.

3.Water Using a mopbrush,wetthe whole of the paper withclean water, thenmix puddlesof the following colours:-

Cerulean Blue (weakpale blue)

Ultramarine Blue

Ultramarine Blue + Alizarin Crimson (blue/purple)

Prussian Blue (a slightly darker shade ofblue)

Wetthe paper again,covering it evenly (apart fromthe boats)but making sure that it doesn’t sit in puddles.While this isstill wet,with a large brush, working quickly, add horizontal bandsof the blues, keepingthem lighteratthe top of the pictureand stronger towards the bottom.Swap to a smaller brush and,while this isstill damp, keep adding dashesofcolour.Let it dry

4.Shadowsonboats. Onto dry paperand using a smaller brush, add the shadowsonthe boats with:-

Ultramarine Blue + Alizarin Crimson (purple)

Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber (blue grey)

5. ColouronBoats. Onto dry paper:-

Ultramarine Blue + Cerulean Blue

Burnt Umber

Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber (blue grey)

LEAVESOMEWHITEBITS

6.Buoys. Wetthe light side of the buoys and to the other side, add a little:-

Cadmium Red

7. Reflections. Onto dry paper, add lotsof small dashes below the boats with:-

Prussian Blue

Ultramarine blue

Ultramarine Blue + Cadmium Yellow(blue green)

LEAVESOMEWHITEBITS

8.Shadowsagainanddetails. Usingthe same colours as previously used onthe boats, go back over the shadowsonthe s idesof the boat and some of theedg es.Add a little colour to theropes

Add some more colour to the shadowysidesof the boats

Ward Councillors Notebook

As well as dealing with numerous individual residents’ issues, our ac vi es have been focused on fourissues

Damage to verges/roadsfrom Bridgediversion

With the bridgereplacementnowcomplete onthe Fillongley Road we have worked with officers tosee what can be done to restore some of the damage caused by the diversionthrough the Eaves Green area

Ac on as follows has been agreed:

Damage to verges/roadsfrom Bridgediversion

With the bridgereplacementnowcomplete onthe Fillongley Road,we have worked with officers tosee what can be done to restore some of the damage caused by the diversionthrough the Eaves Green area.Ac on as follows has been agreed

Walsh Lane –some per manent edge ofcarriageway repairs atthislocation,followingtheinitial make safe workcompleted by using planings

Lodge Green Lane – This has been flagged as requiring re-s urfacing in onearea.Whilst it is currentlysafe, it will beadded to theresurfacing programme.

Eaves Green Lane –additional repairs for backfill where the verge has been overridden but it isstartingto recoverand focussing on vehicleaccesses for Rose Cottageand Croxalls House.

Old Road –looking to putthisonthere-surfacing programme for next year.

The “Orca” cyclelaneseparators

The Orcas between Old Road and Millisons Wood werea grant-funded trial as part of a programme to improve cycle safety.Not all trials will be successful and we believe that Orcas are not a good solu on for here We collected over 600 signatureson a pe on, seekingthereplacement of the Orcas with a be er solu on.It was presented to the Council, together withphotographic evidenceand was well received.Weexpect a decision during September.(Fingers crossed).

QuarryTrafficanddust

This is a habitual issue with ppers runningthrough

Meriden villageand the MeridenMile,when alterna ves areavailable.Lotsofphotos have been submi ed and warnings issued by NRS to truck operators.SMBCHighways are, atthe me ofwri ng,producing a map showing preferred and non-preferred routes foruse by the quarry operators and haveinstalled a temporary monitoring camera.

Fingers crossed, it looks as though the dustnuisance has significantly reduced/gone due to work undertaken A&A Recycling have submi ed a planning applica onto erect a buildingto enclose loading opera ons,which is best prac ce

Ondemand bus

We have secured confirma onthat “shoppingtrollies” or two bagsof shopping can be brought onto this busservice For those with disability, the bus will get as close to their homeas physically possibleand requests for thisshould be specifically madeatthe me ofbooking.Otherwise,pickups will normally be onMain Road,Fillongley Road & Birmingham Road

Tony,HeatherandAndrew

Harvest 2023 should be well over anddone with by thetimethis is published, althoughwith the wetsummerwe’ve had sofar, I’m not completely confident!! I alwaysthink ofSeptember asthe start of the farming year, as it’s when most of the crops are plantedand starttheir lifecycle.We grow severaldifferent crops here, toforma rotation This meansthateach year eachfield has adifferent crop growing in it.Ifwetried togrow thesame crops in thesame field everyyear the plants would end up taking all the nutrients out of thesoil, and nothingwould grow. So, to stop this, we grow different crops inthe fieldseach year,over a 5 or 6 year rotation.Eachcrop requires differentnutrientstogrow, so by spreading them out we can managethenutrients inthesoil better. The crops can also be beneficial to thesoils, sorotating them keepsthe micro-organisms healthy. Healthy soilmicroorganisms mean healthy crops!

Autumntime is when westartto think about lambing time again too, as it’s whenthe rams (male breeding sheep) are introduced to our ewes (female breeding sheep). A ewe is pregnant for 21 weeks, sowe mustensurethatthey ewes are matingwith the rams 21 weeks before we wantthem to lamb.But we mustthink about itevenearlier thanthat, as we must makesuretheewe is in the right condition beforethetups are introduced To do this,we makesuretheewes are grazing thenicest, lushest grass. This will help theewes get pregnant quickly and willalso increasethe numberof lambsthey’re likely to produce.Ideally,we’dlikeeach ewetogive birth to and rear two lambs More and she may struggle, and the lambs will notthrive,orwe’ll end up having to hand-feed them ourselves,whichcanend upbeing quite expensive!

The cows havespentthesummerout grazingonthe grass, and the calves have grown big and strong They’reno longerrelyingon their mother’s milk and they’re mainly eatinggrassnow,which means it’stimetoweanthem, and bring the calves into thesheds thatthey’ll spend the winter months in. This will givethe cows a few monthstoget back into the best body condition forcalving time,whichwill start atthe beginningof February 2024.

Sometime, attheend of Octoberor early Novembe,r the cows will alsocome into theshedsthatthey’ll spend the winter months in. We do thisto look afterourgrassland, as leaving the cows outside on it overwinterwouldmake it verymuddyand could kill off all the grass.We have plenty of strawfor them to sleep on, and silage for them to eat, so they’ll be lovelyand cosy.

Thedrill has been busy in thefields planting thenew crops!

The tractorand balercollectingthe straw into balesforus touseas winter bedding for thecows

Thenew crops havestarted growing in thefields, to be harvestedin

summer 2024

What animals do youthink you might find on afarm?

Draw their pictures below

All TogetherCafé

MeridenSportsPavilion

Anytimebetween2pmand4pm

8thSept

13thOct

10thNov

Drop in for tea, coffee, cake and chat.

Meet your neighbours. Play board games.

We always have an enjoyabletime. Do join ussoon – call 01676 522666 if you would liketransport.

Balsall Common Co untry Market

First Saturday of the month in the

British Legion.

Other Saturdays in the Jubilee Centre.

We have lovely home baking, preserves, plants, seasonal vegetables, crafts and home-made cards.

Café is now OPEN!

Hampers can be orderedanddelivered countrywide Contact 01676 523007

WI Meetings are held on the first Monday of the month at 7:30pm

at Meriden Village Hall, Main Road CV7

7NG

Our Autumnmeeti ng plan is:4th September – Aformer Lord Mayor of

Weare Meriden WI.All women over 18 are welcome to join.Comeand try a meet ing free ofcharge.

Our schedu leis packed with activities.Currently we havea b ook group(discussing Tidelands by Philippa

Gregory nextmonth), a darts team, a lunch club and a walkinggroup.Since the lastMeridenMag,we have supported the Cyclists’ memorial with refreshment s in the village hall.Wealso had a fun d ay at Picnic inthe Parkwhere we offered yummy cakes anddrink.(See photo).

Our annual general meeting saw a fewchangesonthe committee whichh elps with the organisation of our event s.Our newPresident is Hilary Dewar.

At our July meeting we listened to Nick M artin, a local wildlife ph otographer, edu cating uson British mammals.He was really entertaining and so knowledgeable.

At our Augustmeeting we had a social event-buffet, games and chatter.

By the time youread this, our p addle boardingtaster session at Shu stokereservoir w ill also have taken place.See!Weare n ot all Jam and Jerusalem

Coventry,Linda Bigham will be telling h er story,“Mill to Mayor

2nd October – Sue Stretton, a M eriden resident,will be t elling us about her work in supp orting peop le of the Ukrain e.

6th November – A talkbyour newvicar, Kevin Flanagan.

Photo - Picnic in the Park on 9th July

For more infor mation, pleaseemail us at meridenwi@hotmail.com or call DellaMannix, on

07920 014909

RDAC Launch Event R D C A Launch Event

Onthe 22nd June 2023 local charity, the Regional Driving

Assessment Centre (RDAC)held their LaunchDay attheir

Patrick’s Farm,Head Office.As well as the centreat Patrick’s Farm,RDAChave other centres throughoutthe Midlands, together with thoseinthe NorthWest and NorthEast

England.Each year over 4000 clients are helped to regain or maintaintheir independenceas drivers and passengers.

RDAC alsoofferadvice on vehicleadapta ons to assist mobility issues, advice, and training ontheuse ofpowered wheelchairs and through the HUBSproject offer Accessible Travel Informa on

Gerry Russell*Amy Leddington*Alex Brooker*Sean Barre

Atthe Launch event, fresh from suppor ng UNICEF at Soccer Aid, Channel 4’s Alex Brooker talkedabout hisearly driving experiences. Hisenthusiasm showed his interest in what RDAC was achieving and how it was developing. Sean Barra , who becamethe RDAC Chief Execu ve Officerin 2021 explained thatthe organisa on had undergone a complete rebrand over the past 3 years. Thisevent wasto relaunch RDAC and to thank ourreferrers, suppliers, the Department for Transport, Driving Mobility, DM colleagues and the RDAC Trustees for their con nued support. Hestated thatthere was a greatteam at RDAC, who areso passionate about whatthey do.

RDAC’s Head ofMarke ng and Business Opportuni es, Amy Leddington goes on to say ‘We wanted to create a brand which is not only inclusive and professional but calming andreassuring. We have con nued this conceptthrough, not only the colours, tone of voice, literature and website but also now createda Head Office which is not just a great placeto work, but an incredible assessment centre, helping clients feel welcome and comfortable.’ Gerry Russell, the Chair of Trustees for the charity concludes, ‘It was afantas c day andincredibleto haveso much support from local organisa ons aroundMeriden, Hampton inArden and Balsall Common, including the Meriden Parish Council, Rotary Club ofMeriden, the Meriden Mag, CAMEO and the Altogether Café. It is areal honourand privilegeto be part of RDAC, which issuch a worthwhile organisa on. Hethanked the RDAC staff forall their work in helping clients and so making the charity such a greatsuccess.

Please get in touch if we can help you. Phone: 03003002240

It’s been a very hectic startto the outdoor season, with Meriden members competing regionally, nationally, andinternationally. The European Games in Krakow, Poland saw Monty Orton scorethe highestscoreever shot by a British recurve man in international competition. Monty was also part of the Mixed Team to come away with a new U21 European Record.

Elsewhere at Meriden we’ve had various archersselected to represent Englandat both seniorand junior events: Milly Williams, Tom Duncan, Terri-Ann Firth & Edward Grey were all selected. Edwardand Emelia Hughes were also selected to represent Archery GB atthe World Youth Championships in Limerick, Irelandin July. The County of Warwickshire outdoor competition saw Meriden members Clive Jeacock and Rebekah Tipping both coming away with trophies. Kathryn Taylor came away with first place atthe West Midlands outdoor competition. MeridenArchery club continuesto thrive at regional andinternational levels, with so many archers ofall ages competing.

Autumn Service Details

Date Service

3rd Sept Holy Communion

10th Sept JointServiceat

Methodist Church

17th Sept Holy Communion

24th Sept FamilyService

1st Oct Holy Communion

8th Oct JointServiceat

Methodist Church

15th Oct Holy Communion

22nd Oct FamilyService

29th Oct Joint Bereavement

Serviceat 4pm

5th Nov Holy Communion

12th Nov JointServiceat

Methodist Church -

Remembrance

Sunday

19th Nov Holy Communion

26th Nov FamilyService

Allservicesareat10:30amand atSt. Laurenceunlessstated otherwise.

Pleasecheck the web site.

ST. LAURENCECHURCHNEWS

Priest in Charge: Rev Kevin Flanagan

Church Wardens: Jonathan Douglas 01676522455

Carol Clarke07500 700679

churchwarden.meriden@gmail.com

Church Website: https://stlaurencemeriden.wordpress.com

Finduson Facebook: St Laurence ChurchMeriden

One of the joysofworking in a parishchurch in a village community is the way that services encompass the fullscale of the livesof those wholive here.It doesn’tmatterif youare nine monthsold, or ninetyyearsold, the churchhas arelevance for your life!I’mnot justtalking hereaboutthe obvious Baptisms,Weddings and Funerals either.

When Iwas training at St John’s Collegein Nottingham,we wereallsent to different churches in different partsof the country, to experience the church in all itssettings.Iwassentto the middle ofDevon and,being a city boy born and bred,I must admit,I felttotallyout of my depth.

(WhichI imagine was why theysentme there!)But one thingthat massively impressed me,was the way the church was a churchfor the whole community, regardlessof age or background.I’ve never forgotten the great football matches after the Sundayservice.Someone would always bring a ball, and with two gravestones at oneend and pilesof coats atthe other a chaotic game would start.Sometimesyou’d have four generations playing, and I’ve neverenjoyed playing a game of football quite so much inmylife!

Looking at what is happening inthe nextthree months, this brings me back to three things that will be happening at St Laurence church.

Firstly,for September we will be starting a Family Serviceevery month, which will havearelaxed,fun format and be very child friendly.If this whole ‘God thing’ is completely new toyouand your family, thenthis is the service for you.

Also, during September, the churches together inMeriden will be starting an ALPHA.This is an opportunity to meet up anddiscuss what Christianity really means.It will be held atthe Rectory inthe centre of the village; if you’reinterested,please drop mean email at vicar.kevin@gmail.com for further details.

Finally, attheend ofOctober, the churches together will be holding a bereavement service.The last few years, especially during Covid were tough on so many people, and for those who have lost loved ones, in whatever circumstances, this can just bea chance tolight a candle, say a prayerand remember.

See you soon,

God Bless

Kevin

Forany enquiriesabout Baptismsand Weddings,or

pastoralneeds, pleasecontactthechurchwarden:

Carol Clarkeon07500 700679

churchwarden.meriden@gmail.com

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Mondays – St. Peters Church Hall, Balsall Common

09:15 am Retro Dance Fit

10:15 amGentle Pilates and Stretch

Mondays – Heart of England School Dance Studio

6:00pm Retro Dance Fit

7:00pm Pilates

Wednesdays – Reading Rooms, Berkswell

09:30 am and 10:30 am Pilates

11:40 am Young at Heart – for the over 70s

Visitthe website www.positivefitnessuk.co.uk

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Theperfect startto your day………..

Message from SaqibBhattiMP

Ihope youand your loved ones haveenjoyed the summer, despite the weather!Iwanted to take this opportunity to update you on some local and national news I recently voiced my concerns aboutthe building of a viaduct for HS2 in rural Solihull and called onthe council to refuse the building application until they present a design that fits the locality. The current design of the viaduct is anotherexample ofHS2 treatingtheresidentsofBalsall Common assecond-class citizens compared toother areasof the country.It isof theutmost importance thatthe people ofBalsall Common and Berkswell havea voiceand thattheir voices are heard Iwill continue to advocate onthis issue to make sure that our constituency gets the best deal possible Asyou knowIhave been championing betteraccess to healthcareacross the Solihull borough.Followingthe closing of the minorinjuries unit in Solihull duringthe Covid-19 pandemic, the Meriden and Solihull Conservatives, includingmyself, campaigned for the opening of an Urgent Treatment Centre.This included a petition signed by 11,000people, resulting in the UTC opening in June 2023.The UTC offers medicalservices for minorinjuries and minorillnesses,providing local people with an accessible healthcare service for those who do notneed to go to A & E.The UTC offers vital access to healthcare needed by the locality, and I amthrilled thatmy campaign to improve health services and toopen an Urgent Treatment Centre has been successful.

On a nationallevel, the government announced the Long-Term NHSWorkforce Strategy in July 2023,which aims to alleviate staffing shortages withinthe NHS and reformthe way the serviceis run.The strategysetsout £2.4billion worth offunding over the next five years, aimed at additional education and training places.By 2037 there will bean extra 60,000 doctors, 170,000 nurses and 71,000healthcare professionals.Theincreasein NHS staffwill cut down waitingtimes, making healthcare moreaccessible.

The strategy is also focused on retaining current NHSworkers by increasing flexible working,creatingmore opportunities for professional development, and ensuring thatthe NHS remains a fulfilling and rewarding workplace.The plan will reformthe NHSby placing an emphasison usingtechnology and innovationto modernise the way healthcareis delivered.This will allow staff tospend more time withpatients,providingthe best qualityofcareavailable Thesereforms will change the way in whichhealthcareis delivered, securingthe future of the NHSfor manyyears to come On a personal note,Iwanttoshare the wonderful newsof the birth of mysecond child, in June.Weare overjoyed and greatly enjoying raising our children inthe Meriden constituency Please note myofficeremainsopen as usual and weare conducting surgery appointments, so do not hesitate to book a slot

Bestwishesandstay safe, Saqib Bhatti MBE MP

My contact detailsare:saqib.bhatti@parliament.uk 020

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BUBBLES HAND CAR WASH

Quality Hand Car Cleaning

Find us off the A45 in Meriden Phone 07538 238 005

Open 9.00am - 7.00pm, 7 daysaweek

Pricedependsoncarsize butstarts from £10 forwashandleatherdry, or £20 forinsideandout, including full vacuum , windowsanddashboard

Pleasenotethat we only accept Cash

** £2 OFF when yo ushow the

Merid en Mag **

Please be awarethattheentrance from Shepherds

Lane is closed. Thismeansthatmotorists from

Meridenneed to driveto the Stonebridge Island and U-turn back towards Meridento accessus fromthe A45.

Visit our web site, www.meridenrotary.org.ukfor more information or contact Jane Maugham (Club Secretary) bytelephoning/ texting 07905377515 or email herat mrcsecretary79@gmail.com.

Theendofmy Presidency hasarrivedand I am sure I heardacollectivesighof relieffrom ourclub members,butthe Rotary activitiescarry on The foodcollectionsareongoing andstill providing help tothose mostinneedintheseunprecedentedtimA very Aninteresting afterdinnerspeaker, Meriden’sown Sue Stretton, who presentedonactivitiesregarding help to Ukraine, wasenjoyed by all

A fellowship visitto John Taylor’s Bell Foundry in Loughborough was very interesting; it was goodtoseethatthey were exporting bellsandtheirsuperstructuretoauniversity in Chicago.

The 13th of June was President’s Evening atthe Manor Hotel.It wasanextremely enjoyableevening, with family & friends attending. Theentertainmentand food wereexcellentandthe proceedsof theraffle weredonatedto my chosencharity forthe year, which was DEBRA This bringsatotalraisedof £5,000

I hope I end myyearas President withtheclub ina good place, and I know this year’s President, Malcolm Leonard, willdoall hecanto buildonallthathas gone before

I havesaidthis before,but Meriden Rotary membersdoalotof good work, andenjoy alotoffriendship along the way Why notcomealong tooneof our meetingstosee what wedoasateam?

PB Hughes Phil Hughes. President 2022-2023

A message fromthisyear’s Rotary

President

Firstly, I mustthank outgoing President Philip Hughes forhis leadership anddedication, making fora very successful year for Meriden Club

Coming throughthedifficultiesof Covid-19 restrictions gavea boosttotheendeavoursanddeterminationofmembersto putall that behindusand get back tonormality. Zoom enabledusasa club to keep intouchandhold meetings withspeakers fromfar and wideas wellaslocally

Asnew President for 2023-2024I am awareof thehigh barset by manyprevious members

The Rotary Club ofMeridenreflectstheneedsof ourlocal community, andtocontributeto world programs whenneedsare identified

The mainobjective I haveduring the yeartocome will beto continue withtheexcellent work inour folio, andtoenjoy ourselves whilstdoing so.It would bea poorer worldin many respectsif wecouldnothavesome fun. Tostartthe yearahead wehelda BBQ on 2nd July raising funds for my chosencharity this year, ‘Brave Little Soldiers’ whichresearcheschildhood dementia

Nextcamea visittothe Cornish Beam Engine Victorian Open Day in Lichfield which proved very interesting together with much memorabiliaondisplay

We visited TSStirling Sea Cadets whohelp us with Santa Sleighcollectionsand we willcontinuetosupport them asthey providea framework forleadership, responsibility and teamwork fortheirrecruits.

There will bea fellowship club night plannedat Pavarotti’s Italianrestauranton Tuesday29th August.

On 18th July wehadanexcellentspeaker presenting on Zoom ‘The Dambusters Raid’ onits 80thanniversary which proved interesting, moving andthought provoking.

Wearea friendly group andallnewcomersare guaranteeda warm welcome We meettwicea monthatthe Manor Hotelon thesecondand fourth Tuesday at 7.30pm The first Tuesday isa Zoom social meeting andthethird Tuesday isa Zoommeeting withspeaker,bothstarting at 8pm.If youareinterestedin finding out moreabout who weareand what wedo, ourdetails areabove

MalcolmLeonard President2023-24

BALSALL COMMON MEMORIESCAFE

The Memories Cafesessionsarerun,by a group of volunteers, for people with Dementiaaccompanied by a 'Carer' , (e.g. Family member, friendorneighbour) They aim to providetheopportunity forsocialisation whilst enjoying anactivity, entertainmentor justadrink anda chat. Thereisnocharge forany of thesessions.

The Coffee and Chat sessionstake placeonthe first Thursday of the month - between 11.00 and 12.30 in Balsall Common Library, Kenilworth Road CV77EL Thesesessionsare very mucha get-together when we may exchangeexperiences, information, and generally havea goodchat.

The Memories Café meetsevery second Wednesday of each month from 1 15 - 3.30 in Balsall Common Village Hall,Station Road CV77FF Thisisthesession when we organisea programmeof activitiesorentertainmentand enjoy ourcupsof teaorcoffeeandcakes. Recently we haveenjoyeda Decoupagesessioncreating birdhouses, anillustratedtalk about Puffin (Skomer) Island, a musical afternoonandour firstlunchatalocalrestaurant.

Coffee and Chat - Balsall Common Library 11.00am -12.30pm

Thursdays 7th September 5th October 2nd November 7th December

Memories Cafe - Balsall Common Village Hall 1.15-3.30pm

Wednesday 13th September - Petsas Therapy

Wednesday 11th October - Bulbplanting or Flower arranging (tbc)

Wednesday 8th November - Reminiscence - Memory boxes

Wednesday 13th December - Christmascelebration

Do share ourinformation withfriends and family who mightliketojoinus at any of our sessions. Any suggestions foractivities or entertainers are always welcometoo, as are offers ofhelp orideas for fundraising.

ContactChristine07974 140353 ifyouwouldliketogetinvolved.

This past month we have really been busy behind the scenes gearing up for the new season which kicks off in September 2023.

Starting off at the back end of last season We have unfortunately had to say our goodbyes to our U16 team, after they completed their journey through grassroots football to the end of U16 age group season as they move into youth football. Through the time they have been with us we have welcomed some fantastic players and their families, to the club and we wish them all the best on their journey into youth and adult football.

They have been a credit to their coaches and families

A massive thank you to our U16 coaches Rich, Phil & Gary who have all helped the squad develop as individuals and as a team through the journey through the ups and downs and we can’t thank them enough for their effort’s week in week out.

At the end of the season in June, we held our Club Presentation. A great day was had by all. The committee would like to thank all the players’ families and volunteers on the day for making it such a success!

With every goodbye is also an opportunity to reflect and reimagine the Club’s future path So with that in mind I would like to say a massive welcome to our brand new U7s team that will be joining us for the start of a new journey into the local football community. Our U7 lions will be under the ever-watchful eyes of our brand-new coaches to the club former professional player coach Matty Blair, and their new team manager, Mark Garrett -welcome to the Lions We are all excited to see the team come on leaps and bounds this season under their guidance

Both our U12s teams have been busy at tournaments and preparing for the new season ahead. With some new exciting additions to the teams we are really looking forward to seeing the U12s in their respective league campaigns under coaches Dave & Dan & Phil & Matt.

Our U15 squad have been ticking over during the off season by entering a few tournaments and continuing their weekly training They attended the Central Ajax tournament in Warwick and the Christ the King Gala Day with some respectable performances throughout. We have seen some growth in the team this season and open training sessions are still ongoing through the summer months for potential players to come and join the lions under Bryn & Andy’s guidance.

Our Little Lions are still going strong but are on the hunt for a new head coach to take the sessions forward as coach Andy's ten ure comes to an end after two fun-filled years If you are interested in helping coach at the club please get in touch

A massive thank you to Fortress Recycling & Resource Management Ltd for sponsoring the lions for the next 2 seasons.

‘We warmly welcome Fortress on board and can’t thank them enough for the generosity and support they have shown to the club :- we look forwarded to working together across the next two seasons’’ –

Bryn, Club chairman.

Fortress recycling will proudly become our sole club sponsor across all of our teams for the 23/24 & 24/25 seasons. #Followthepride #fortressrecycling

Years 7 and 8 have been showing their knowledge of Shakespeare in an impressive exhibition of their work in the library

Organised by the English department, students have produced amazing work in a variety of media on William Shakespeare and his plays, particularly the ones they have been studying - The Tempest, Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet.

There were eight stands, one for each class in the year and they were brimming with work. There were two exhibitions with each year group displaying over several days allowing visits from each year and from members of staff.

There was an impressive display of written work and calligraphy, much of which had been illustrated, written out by hand, treated to look aged and decorated with ribbons and seals. Written work consisting of extracts, letters, maps and scripts. Added to this, much of the work was displayed on boards or mounted in some special way including some impressive triptychs.

Complementing all this was a wide variety daggers, swords and other props. Visual arts were a favourite too with paintings in various media, illustrations and posters. Some let their creativity shine with graphic novels, cartoon strips and collages.

Every group also seemed to have budding sculptors in them, with model-making

being very popular. The architectural models including the Globe Theatre and Shakespeare’s house being quite impressive. Other models included ships and full-scale, playable gaming boards. One student created a lovely diorama depicting a scene from Twelfth Night. Costumes were a feature of some displays too with lots of drawings and concepts,

Julius Caesar, all ready for the stage! “We wanted to give the students something to get their teeth into after the exams and this is the result,” said Mr O’Brien. “The amount of work and imagination is staggering. They’ve really expressed themselves.”

News highlights from Heart of England School

Rosemary Eileen Webb 30th June 1945 – 3rd July 2023

Rose was born into a farming family in Pembroke She had a happy childhood on the farm, until her father died when she was 11 years old.

Five years later, her mother remarried and the family moved to Pickford Farm, Allesley.

Rose attended Nicholas Chamberlain School, Bedworth. Later she studied Rural Domestic

Economics at Radbrook College, Shrewsbury, and went on to become a lecturer in Rural

Home Economics and then taught at Gloucester Agricultural College She married John, a farmer, in 1976 at Berkswell Church and lived at Park Farm on the Packington Estate She ran cookery classes in the evenings and then went on to work at Solihull College where she developed an interest in “special needs” pupils.

With the arrival of Michael and Christopher, Rose concerned herself with their upbringing

Ongoing diabetes and kidney failure brought early retirement but she received the miracle of a kidney transplant, which lengthened and transformed her life. This enabled her to enjoy her grandchildren and gave her such joy to see them grow up

Rose and John retired from the farm in 2000 and moved to Meriden She quickly settled into Village life and was able to holiday at home and abroad, mainly Bournemouth and Italy

They joined the Balsall Common Gospel Fellowship and came to know the love of the Lord Jesus Christ

Rose and John were a devoted pair and John cared for her with love and compassion. They will be remembered by many for walking hand in hand through the Village and greeting everyone with happiness and joy.

Leonard Bunting (aka Len) 2nd February 1935 - 18th May 2023

It is with great sadness that the family and friends of Len said their goodbyes to him at Woodlands Cemetery, Coleshill on 11th July 2023. Work brought Len to Birmingham, being a foreman on the build of the original Bull Ring Shopping Centre, where one of his proudest moments was meeting the Duke of Edinburgh on the Bull Rings completion.

With such a huge project, his wife, and children soon joined Len in the West Midlands, making their home in Meriden in the winter of 1963.

Here they completed their family, welcoming a third daughter, and decided to remain in the area to raise their children

In 1971 they moved to Fillongley Road, where Len became a familiar face, waving to those walking to get their morning paper and shopping and he could often be heard singing in the garden, which he so loved.

Len was proud of his local area: he would raise the flag when needed on the village green opposite their home, ran the local Boys Club for the community and would organise the local Dominoes team, whilst playing himself too

But Len also had his own interests: he loved motorbikes, riding his BSA out and about, even over to the Isle of Man to watch the iconic TT races

Len and his wife moved within the village to Maxstoke Lane, where he lived happily until he passed

Len is greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.

Esca p e f rom M eri d en on F ri d a y 17 t h N o v ember 2023

At precisely midnight, 100 people will set off from The Green with the int ention of getting as far away as possible in 24 hours. Their website reads, 'There is an ancient cross marking the centre of this land. At midnight, 100 shadows will flee, any way they choose. The further they run, the richer their reward. They will be watched...'

They must be on foot, running or w alking Some are chained together, some are in teams, many are solo. Not many folks in the village know this is happening, but a few of us turn out to see them on their w ay. It's quite a sight to see them scatter in every direction.

Last year's winner was a solo male who ran 170 miles A solo woman made 144 miles and the most miles covered by a chained solo w as136!

If you would like to see what it's all about, their website is escapefrommeriden.co.uk

News from the Orme Schol of Dancing

The Meriden Mellow Movers Ballet Group started last October and has thrived and blossomed. It has turned into a lovely group of ladies that enjoy the beautiful movement of classical ballet within what is achievable and accessible. This work is fabulous for developing muscle control, strength and flexibility. It helps to fine tune balance and coordination and is so often recommended by the medical profession. Come along and join us; you will be guaranteed a very warm welcome.

Call Sandra on 02475 313216 8pm Mondays at Meriden Methodist Church Hall. (See our adverts opposite)

Dancers from The Orme School of Dancing based at Meriden Methodist Church performed at two separate events in the Summer - our Junior Showcase involved our youngest up to junior aged dancers performing pieces from the musical 'Oliver!' as well as other exciting pieces and then our Seniors wowed the audience at our Cabaret Event the following week! A great performance opportunity was had by all! If you'd like to join us then please see more at www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk

Healing Hands Network

Local charity Healing Hands Network is run by Sue Stretton who lives in Meriden. HHN was formed in 1996 in the wake of the Balkan War and Siege of Sarajevo – the breakup of former Yugoslavia. Its aim is to help those affected by war and its aftermath.

We comprise of Complementary and Holistic Therapies with a leaning towards mental and physical health and injury. We are still working in Bosnia for 6 months of the year giving therapies to survivors of rape, torture, witnessing atrocities, being left homeless and losing loved ones When the war in Ukraine broke out, we knew we had to act and use our years of experience to help the people there – it was just like Bosnia all over again.

We began collecting humanitarian and medical aid and sending it across to Ukraine via various means We became concerned that maybe some items were not arriving and being used as intended so we made the decision to fundraise and drive over ourselves.

We bought a decommissioned London ambulance and a second-hand Land Rover Discovery. Then we filled them with medical, surgical and humanitarian aid and off we went. We were part of a convoy of five as we loaded onto the Channel Tunnel train to b egin our journey of nearly 2,000 miles and 40 hrs drive across Europe

This was the start of an ongoing commitment for us We partner with a Ukrainian team of volunteers called StaySafe who collect donations from all over the globe and then distribute them over to the East where it is needed. They have families and before the war had jobs They are a team of 12 men plus 1 female- Maddy from USA and occasionally Izabela from Poland. We are confident that everything gets to its destination.

The team support 7 hospitals, 1 orphanage in Lviv for 3-6year old war orphans, 1 refuge shelter near Bakhmut and several villag es near the front line This is a dangerous occupation, and they are often under fire They are in constant contact with the military who advise them as to where the enemy are Sometimes they arrive at a town or village as the Russians are running away from it, loaded down with stolen goods- washing machines, carpets, televisions to name a few.

Donations of unwanted in date prescription medicines, over the counter medicines, bandages, crutches, walking sticks, aids, toiletries, cleaning products, water purification tablets, batteries, sanitary wear, nappies, dried food, tins etc plus clean bedding, pillows, towels, tee shirts, new underwear men’s and wo men’s, new socks are all urgently needed. Please call to arrange to drop off please. Meds should have the name and any personal details removed. Thank you for your continued support during this awful time. Many of you in the village have already been amazing and continue to be so - a huge thank you to you all. We are making a difference

If you can help at all please contact me, Sue Stre on on 077344 62000, email healinghandsnetwork@gmail.com or donate through: https://gofund.me/2c1e2dcf

www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk

email:ormedance@gmail.com

PrincipalsJennifer and Samantha Faulkner

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

Fellowship Teaching Degree Dip

A.B.R S M

The Orme School of Dancing

Meriden Branch –

Meriden Methodist Church Hall

Classes in Ballet, Tap,

Modern Jazz, Gymnastic

Dance, Contemporary Dance and Musical Theatre

Aged 2 ½ years upwards

Opportunities to get involved with shows, performances and exams

We are taking enquiries now for new children at our Meriden Branch. Have a look at all we do at Email ormedance@gmail.com

ORME DANCE

ADULT CLASSES

Meriden Methodist Church Hall

Beginners Tap – Mondays at 7:15pm

Any age, shape or 2 left feet. Everyone is very welcome. You just need a big smile and a good sense of humour!!!

Mellow Movers – Mondays at 8pm

Classical ballet class full of beautiful movement and easy to access steps for all Great for muscle strength and flexibility

02475 313216 or sandraclarke.or me@outlook.com

07904 239 365

Mobile Foot Health Practitio ner

fully insured and registered

07471 938 136

spruceandtoesfootcare@gmail.com

All Meriden covered

Rachel Ford

Are you part of a local sporting, recreational or leisure group that needs a small financial grant to help?

If so, the Meriden Sports and Recreation Trust may be able t o assist by providing a small grant They’re designed to support non-commercial group s and their members w ith financial assistance in order t o develop their sport ing, recreational and leisure projects for the benefit of those living in or close to M eriden. App lications may be made that support a wide range of leisure and health-based activities, across all age groups and sections of the commun ity, that promote exercise, well-being and leisure

We h ave helped local group s such as The Firebird Singers, Centre of England Arts, The Scout Group , the Aeromodellers and CAMEO to name a few.

For more info, pl ease visit our w ebsite www.meridensrt.org.uk

SUPPORT IN SOURCING GOOD

QUALITY CARE AT THE RIGHT

TIME. IS THERE REALLY SUCH A

SERVICE OUT TH ERE?

Yes, there is, and good news, it’s local to you too.

Senior Care Support Services offer an empathetic and tailored approach to your individual needs, holding your hand throughout the whole process As a local senior care specialist, with many years’ experience working with older, frail, adults, my knowledge of local care homes and domiciliary care agencies can be invaluable when finding the right care home, or domiciliary care in the home for you or a loved one Just having somebody there who understands how the care system can work for you or a family member can be invaluable, whilst also cutting the number of hours you spend speaking with the wrong people

Why not have an initial, confidential, chat to see whether I can be of help to you,

and take a look at my website for further information.

www.seniorcaresupport.co.uk

Tel. Geraldine Davies on

01564 743067 or email

info@seniorcaresupport.co.uk

Meriden Sports and R ecreation Trust News

At their recent Annual General Meeting, the Trustees of the Meriden Sports and Recreation Trust once again allocated funds for their Small Grants

Programme These small grants are additional to the annual core funding that is donated to the Meriden Sports Park.

The Small Grants Programme has been established to support local non-commercial groups in developing their sporting, recreational and leisure projects.

Over recent years, grants have been made to a variety of local projects, including:

- Youth football

- Pre-school ac vi es

- Youth organisa on

- Arts and Cra ac vi es

- Mar al Arts

- Dance prepara on

- Senior ci zen ac vi es

- Gardening ac vi es

- Model making

For more information about making your group’s application please visit our website www.meridensrt.org.uk

PUZZLE PAGE – No. 17

WORDBUILDER - Using these 9 letters, can you answer all the clues? Each answer must include the central letter L.

Can you also find the word that uses all 9 letters?

Riddle:- If there are 3 apples and you take away two, how many do you have? See back page for answer.

We hope that you enjoy doing these puzzles. If you want the answers, just email me chrisbannister56@aol.com If you can offer any puzzles, please send them to me. Thanks.

CAMEO meets at the Village Hall, on the 4th Friday of each month at 2 – 4 pm

Please contact Joan Tel: 01676 522666 for more information. Everyone will be made very welcome.

Here’s what we’ve been up to.

In June, our outing this year was to Planters Garden Centre in a mini bus. It was a lovely sunny day, and we set off like a happy band of travellers off on an adventure. We bought so many plants and gifts the driver had a job fitting them all in. We enjoyed it very much, tired but happy. It is worth a visit!

In July, we had our usual strawberries and cream, also our favourite poems or readings It’s amazing how a poem can induce laughter, tears and every emotion. A poem that moves one doesn’t always move another. It’s always interesting and enjoyable. Also, the strawberries and cream were excellent. In August, well, we had a variety of memories of our holidays over the years, some good memories, some not so good, but all amusing. I love a holiday romance Say no more A lovely afternoon was had by all.

A Coronation Celebration

On Monday 8th May, the residents of the service road opposite the school on Fillongley Road, closed off the road and held a street party to celebrate the Coronation. Around 40 people attended, with ages ranging from 9 months to 96 years! We had marquees, covered in bunting, flags and balloons and a separate gazebo for our barbecue. Residents prepared lots of food and drink and children played in the street while the older residents enjoyed a good catch up. The weather held out until the last hour when the heavens opened, but we were under cover so just carried on. The photo shows some of our more mature residents enjoying themselves and there is a combined age of over 500 years in that shot! A great way to celebrate the occasion of the King's Coronation. Jacqui Fisher

Dates

M

11th November –

Remembrance Day

12thNovember –

Remembrance Sunday

14thNovember - Birthday of His Majesty the King

Autumn Meetings are planned as follows: -

September 22nd - A talk by Mr. Peter Leake on “From Swallows to Jaguar” which is the 100 years history of Jaguar cars.

October 27th - A talk by Stephanie and Ken Sherlock on their trip to the Grand Canyon Always fun and inf ormative.

November 24th To be arranged.

Art Classes for all!

Watercolour painting classes with Julie Hyde are held in

Meriden Village Hall on

Wednesday mornings and

afternoons. Also Zoom

classes are available on Thursday mornings.

For more information email:-artyjulie39@gmail.com or phone 01676 523357

A 5 mile Autumn walk between Merid en & Berkswell chu rches

This leisurely walk takes about 2 hours, including a tea break It passes through beautiful rural landscapes with listed buildings and an abundance of wildlife Start beside St Laurence Church and head west along Church Lane Just before the sharp bend turn left through the new metal kissing gate and onto the signed public footpath. We are now walking south; beside a hedgerow that often has a herd of cattle safely on the other side Reaching the corner of the field, cross the boundary ditch on the wooden planks and continue walking south. Avoid the diagonal path to the SW This will be part of the return route Yellow clusters of ivy flowers can be seen along the route from Sept to Nov The rich nectar is valuable autumnal food for pollinating insects Wasps seem to get intoxicated on it At the next field corner, go through the metal kissing gate and across the rough grassland. Looking R in clear weather, Birmingham city centre is visible in the distance, and much further away, the Lickey Hills. Pass through a wide gateway and follow the hedge on the left. Oaks are the most common trees in the old field boundaries, some dating back to the Enclosure Acts. A branch on a dead oak tree is used as a regular hunting perch by a kestrel. After a section of pasture, a metal gate opens onto a large field of cereal stubble. Look out for mixed flocks of finches feeding on the remnants of seed from the harvest. The path runs to the left of the long brick wall. A wooden gate then opens onto the gravel trackway beside The Byre. In about 50 yards, carefully cross Back Lane to the metal gateway opposite. Carry on straight ahead with the high hedge on the left. Some of the hedges on this section of the walk are elm. They have survived Dutch Elm Disease because of regular trimming, thus avoiding the beetle that attacks taller elms. When you spot the belt of woodland ahead, take the path on the left of the hedge. This leads to a large tree-fringed pond with resident moorhens and shoals of tiny sticklebacks. I have sometimes been lucky and seen reed buntings in the surrounding shrubs. The females are very well camouflaged. However, the males are more easily noticed with their black head and white collar. The footpath then joins Blind Lane, a wide gravel track This leads past Blind Hall, a timber-framed Grade 2 listed building that dates back to the early C17th. Cross beside the cattle grid, then at the junction with Meriden Road turn left onto the tarmac footpath. Berkswell village is only about 10 minutes walk away The bar and garden of the Bear Inn is a welcome stop for walkers and their dogs This Grade 2 listed building dates back to the C16th. A licence was given to John Allen in 1641, for a tavern in Berkswell, presumably on the site of the current pub. Teas and coffees are served, as well as a selection of beers The nearby St John the Baptist church is well worth visiting Built of red sandstone, it is considered one of the best examples of Norman architecture in the Midlands Parts of the crypt stonework are believed to be Saxon

Kestrel

Honey Bee feeding Kestrel on St. John the Baptist on ivy hunting perch Church Berkswell

For the return walk, join the signed footpath just outside the church gates.

This takes you along the perimeter of the churchyard and then joins the main Meriden Road. Cross it and retrace the earlier route beside Meriden Road, but continue on the tarmac path beyond Blind Lane for about 10 minutes until you see the public footpath signed on the right. This takes you diagonally over the fields to Back Lane. Again, please cross cautiously as there can be fast traffic. Follow the pavement to the west for a few hundred yards until the left bend, where the footpath is signposted north, between the houses up a white driveway. As you enter the grass paddock, St Laurence Church can just be seen nestled between the trees on the skyline ahead. These wide open skies are good for watching Buzzards soaring high above. Listen out for their youngsters plaintively begging for food. The parents will continue to feed them until the better weather next year. – continued ….

Walk – continued. Cross the combined double stile and bridge over the ditch. The next field of coarse grass and thistles attracts feeding Goldfinches.

At the metal gate turn right onto the gravel track, and then immediately left over the V-shaped wooden stile. There are plenty of blackberries along the hedgerows and young Starlings gorge themselves on them. Some of our most colourful butterflies (Red

Admirals, Peacocks and Small Tortoiseshells) will also feast on the ripe fruit. We now rejoin our original route, walking up the gentle slope to the church. Not far to the west is Berryfields farm-shop and cafe, where I often call in for their excellent coffee and pastries

Rally for Hallie

Hello, I’m Hannah Dugdale, the Auntie of a gorgeous baby girl called Hallie. In the summer of 2022, while on her first family holiday in Spain, Hallie, at just 8 months old, was diagnosed with JMML, a rare type of leukaemia. Hallie was subsequently flown home and began treatment in Birmingham Childrens’ Hospital (BCH) where she has bravely taken on endless chemo, 2 gruelling stem cell transplants and countless blood transfusions and still always has a smile on her face. Sadly, the latest transplant has not worked and, after global discussions, the team at BCH have said the only way left to save Hallie’s life involves a CAR T-cell therapy trial. This is going to cost in excess of

£1 million

Goldfinch feeding on thistle seeds Small Tortoiseshe ll butterfly on bramble

Richard Copland.

Team4 U – Christmas Shoeboxes (registered Charity No. 1114131)

Each shoebox is given to a vulnerable child in Eastern Europe, bringing joy and excitement into an often-bleak existence Please can you help us by filling a shoebox with small gifts? It can be for a boy or girl (aged 3-5, 6-11 or 12+ years), who wouldn’t otherwise get a Xmas present What you need to do…

Get a leaflet from Meriden Library or download it from www.teams4u.com. This will give you the label to use and further instructions

Fill the shoebox with appropriate items

Suggestions are:- toothbrush/toothpaste, hair

accessories/brush, soap/face cloth, stationery, gloves/hat/scarf, socks/underwear, Soft toy,

game, puzzle, small musical instruments, toy vehicles, small rubber or inflatable ball, sweets (with appropriate use by date) and a photo of yourself. Do NOT include any food, medicines, war related items (e g toy soldiers, tanks or guns), anything fragile, aerosols, flammable items or anything sharp Drop the box off to Meriden Library by 9th Nov.

If you have any questions, you can call me, Lucy

Ball on 01676 523502 Thank You!

Hallie is the sweetest little girl, she is so gentle and kind natured (a carbon copy of her mummy) and deserves to be given every chance at a long and happy life As a family, from the bottom of our hearts, we ask you to help save our Hallie. Even the smallest of donations will go towards saving her life Here is the link if you are able to donate.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-hallie

Thank you in advance

Meriden Flower Club

We are a friendly club and welcome new members and visitors. The club meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Meriden Village Hall, Main Road, Meriden CV7 7NG. We host a wide range of both local and national demonstrators.

Doors open at 6.30pm for refreshments before the demonstrations commence at 7.30pm.

Raffle and sales table at each meeting

Our forthcoming demonstrations are: -

18 Sept - Linda Seabrook - Twn Sion Cati

16 Oct - Lynne Sharpe - Car Boot collection 2

20 Nov - Practice class with Beverley Short

For club enquiries, please email: meridenflowerclub@hotmail.com

Now Autumn is approaching we need to think about the tasks ahead in the garden.

Empty out summer tubs and baskets, and replant with bu lbs and winter flowering plants, perhaps small h eathers, wallflowers and grasses. Delay plan ng tulip bu lbs un l November.

Tidy garden, organise your bed s an d borders, mulch n ow, this will en rich the soil and suppress weeds. You can use well-ro ed manure, garden compost or peat free compost.

Use up surplus crops to preserve for winter days.

Tie up onions in a rope and hang up in a dry cool shed or garage.

Some apples keep well and should be wrapped in paper and stored in a box, good keepers are

Bramley seedlings, Jonagold and Coxes Orange Pippins.

October is a good month for p lan ng f ruit trees and bushes

Brighten your home with house plants, orchids are very good value.

Tidy up the vegetable patch and harvest the crops as they ripen, for example, leeks, brassicas and spinach.

Ways to use up surplus vegetables:

Pea and courge e soup

Ingredients:

1 medium onion finely chopped

4 medium courge es sliced

Mug of frozen peas

250ml milk

250ml vegetable stock Small bunch of basil

25g grated hard cheese

2 tablespoons pesto

Method:

Sweat the onion in a li le oil un l so , add the courge e and cook for a few minutes. Add all the other ingredients and bring to boil, reduce the heat and simmer un l the vegetables are cooked.

Either serve as a chunky soup or whiz with a blender to make a smooth soup.

Spicy tomato chutney

Ingredients:

500g ripe tomatoes

500g onions

500g cooking apples

2 cloves of garlic

1 large green pepper

300ml vinegar

375g brown sugar

1tbsp salt

1tbsp paprika

2tsp prepared mustard

1tsp chilli powder

1tsp Worcestershire sauce

6oz tomato puree

½ tsp cayenne pepper

Method: Dip the tomatoes in boiling water for 1 minute. Remove the skins and chop the flesh.

Place in a saucepan. Add chopped onions, peeled, cored and slices apples, crush the garlic and de-seed and chop the green

pepper

Add half the vinegar Cover and simmer un l the onions are so .

Add the remaining ingredients, bring to the boil, and s r un l the sugar is dissolved. Simmer uncovered un l the desired consistency is reached. Pour into warm jars, leave to cool, cover and label

Blackberry and apple jam

Ingredients:

500g blackberries

500g apples

Juice of 1 small lemon

1kg sugar

A simple tomato puree

Gently sauté tomatoes with basil leaves and onions un l so .

Leave to cool. Blend and sieve. Store in the freezer in 500ml bags. This can be used with pasta for a variety of dishes. If not blended, store in packs in the freezer to use in stews and casseroles.

Method: Put fruit, lemon juice and 100ml water into a pan.

Simmer gently for 10-15 mins un l fruit is so and reduced

Add sugar and bring to boil for 5 mins Test to see if jam is set by placing a small spoonful on a cold saucer in the fridge If it wrinkles it is set, if not con nue to boil Leave to cool Place in jars and cover and label

ACE GARAGE

RADFORD 02476 597879

email: service@acegarage.co.uk

Mot Service

Tyres Exhausts

Courtesy car, collection & delivery options.

Call Brendan McManus on 07958 518924

We service, repair and care for your vehi cle.

Gary Franklin & Andy H awkins

Gary Franklin & Andy H aw ins

Family Funeral Directors

Family Funera Directors

Extending a hand of friendship and support

Extending a hand of friendship and support

We understand that every family is different and we will tailor all arrangements to suit your needs, requirements and budget.

We understand that every family is different and we will tailor all arrangements to suit your needs quirements and budget.

*Traditional and Themed funerals* P rivate Chapels of Rest *

*Traditional and Themed funerals Private Chapels of Rest *

*Available 24hours a day * Pre-P ayment Funeral Plans *

*Available 24hours a day * Pre ent Funeral Plans *

*Will W riting Service *

*Will Writing ervice *

*Help and Advice with DSS and Social Fund; both happily accepted*

*Help and Advice with DSS and Social und; both happily accepted*

The Acorn Funeral from £1250 (plus disbursements) 02476 47 3000

The Acorn Funeral from £1250 (plus disbursements)

02476 47 3000

With branches in Tile Hill and Marston Green we are ideally situated to serve the communities of Coventry, Solihull and the surrounding areas.

With branches in Tile Hill and Marston Green we are ideally situated to serve the communities of Coventry, Solihull and the surrounding areas.

333 Tile Hill Lane, Tile Hill Coventry CV4 9OU 0121 779 5577

50 Station Road Marston Green Birmingham

B37 7AU

Available 24hours a day 365 days a year

Web site: www.franklinfunerals.co.uk

Web site: www.franklinfunerals.co.uk

Email: info@franklin funerals.co.uk

Email: info@franklin funerals.co.uk

HURLEY MOTORCYCLES

01827 872489

East House Farm

Hurley Lane

Hurley

Warwickshire

CV9 2G Y

BALSALL COMMON U3A

Thursday 7th Sept –“The History of Stourbridge Glass”.

A talk by Kate Round

Thursday 5th Oct – “Saxon Era - anything but ‘dark’ “ .

A talk by Anthony Poulton-Smith

Thursday 2nd Nov – “Where do Novelists Get Their

Ideas?” A talk by Bobbie Derbyshire

Thursday 7th Dec – Big Band Concert

All meetings are held in St. Peter’s Hall, Holly Lane, Balsall Common at 2pm.

There is no charge and prospective members are always welcome to attend. Please also look at our web site to see all our interest groups and what they are doing – there’s something for everyone.

www.balsallcommonu3a.org

|Dog Training | Residential t raining |

|Field hir e of secure 10 acres Inc pond

and woodlands|

All our training is adapted and tailored around your dog’s individual needs. Individual or group

classes are available by appointment and are fully

flexible Take a look at our Facebook page

‘Grangemead Training’

Call Dorothy on

01676 542471

01676 542471

To book your

To book your sessio n!

Session!

Village Diary – How lucky we are to have so much going on!

nd Mondays Parish Council Sports Pavilion 7:30 pm 07767 162423

3rd Monday Flower Club

Every Tuesday IT Skills Training

Every Tuesday Warm Hub

Village Hall 7:30-9:30pm meridenflowerclub@hotmail.com

Meriden Library 10-11am 01676 522717

Sports Pavilion 10:30a m-1pm 01789 777986

Every Tuesday Scouts (boys and girls aged 10.5-14) Scout Hut 7-9pm Mark Jones 07801 773352

Every Tuesday Rotary Club Meeting

Every We d (in term time) Playgroup

Every We dnesday Art Class

Manor Hotel 7pm www.meridenrotary.org.uk

Methodist Church Hall 9:30-11:30am

Village Hall Morning and afternoon Julie Hyde 523357

2nd Wednesdays Readers' Circle call Peter for venue & time

Peter Moss 01676 523590

Every We dnesday Craft and Chat Sports Pavilion 7-9pm Debbie Barber 07455 829340

Every Thursday Art Class

E

Zoom (online) morning Julie Hyde 01676 523357

Every Thursday IT Skills Training Meriden Library 10-11am 01676 522717

Every Thursday Craft and Chat

h September Parish Council Meeting

September MacMillan Coffee Morning

6th October Churches’ Harvest Supper

st Church Hall 7.00pm Mary Warr 01676 522160

16th October Parish Council Meeting Sports Pavilion 7:30 pm 07767 162423

21st October Film Show Village Hall 7.30pm Chris Copper 01676 522645

22nd October “In the Pink & Blue” Eveni

Until 16th September

Three historic floors of immersive storytelling, surrounded by a halo of beautiful green space filled with wildlife. Visit the brand-new ‘Purnell’s Café & Bistro at Charterhouse.’ Charterhouse is one of Coventry’s most important heritage sites. It is always evolving and developing as a ‘one of a kind’ living heritage site with something for everyone to enjoy and new, exciting things to discover every time you visit.

The Full Monty

Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR13 6NW

17th Oct –5th Nov

London Road, Coventry CV1 2JR.

We have been so busy here this term! Year 3 went to London; year 1 went to the British Transport Museum and the seaside; and Years 4 and 6 went on their residentials to take part in climbing, rafting, archery and abseiling to name just a few of the activities!

Life at Meriden!

Marvellous Musical at Meriden!

Years 5 and 6 put on an amazing performance of ‘Alice the Musical’, full of jokes, laughter, brilliant acting and amazing singing. We are so proud of our children.

Our fundraising team has been hard at work this term, organising events for the children, such as our popular Fathers’ Day gift sale and Summer Fair, as well as providing much needed refreshments for Sports Day!

Miss Parker, who is moving to Scotland after being here for 19 years, had the pleasure of going in the stocks!

A presentation evening was held with

Age UK on Wednesday 28th July. Rebecca

Jacob from Age UK Solihull was presented with the sum of £637.00 raised at Meriden Picnic in the Park on Sunday

9th July, also present was James Hughes

Meriden Parish Council, Rosie Weaver

Meriden Sports Park and Rachel Platt

Precious Events.

We would like to thank all the stall holders, for all their generous donations and the performers that attended on the day, volunteers that helped us set up and pack-away and you the community for helping to raise this amount for Age UK

Solihull.

Rachel Platt Precious Events

Well done, Meriden!

We are so proud to announce that local organisations have raised these amazing amounts this year for various charities

Cancer Research £7,700

Meriden Rotary Club £5,000

Firebird Singers £6,500

Picnic in the Park £637

Leymere Close Residents £700

Congratulations to all concerned, not bad for a small village!!!!

Deadline for the winter issue of the Mag is 1stNovember

The Mag will be out at the beginning of December

Val Martin (co-editor and treasurer) 01676 522963

val simon@btinternet com

Chris Bannister (co-editor and advertising) 07789 903021

chrisbannister56@aol com

Distribution: Paul Green, Mavis & Ken Edwards

Sue Riley & Steve Chance

Proof readers: Adrian & Jane Wood

Advertising costs £25 per 1/4

page and £13 per 1/8 page.

Views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the coeditors. We are unable to print anonymous letters but will withhold name and address on request.

A good mantra to live by: Start where you are Use what you have Do what you can

Riddle answer is 2: - the 2 you took away!

Meriden Mag is online. Just visit www.ISSUU.com In the search box, enter MeridenMag (No space) and you’ll see what we’ve published.

Post Office opening hours: 10.30am - 3.30pm, Saturdays 9.30am - 12 noon