MeridenMag Winter 2023

Meriden Mag Winter 2023

See inside for details of Rotary Santa Sleigh visits, Christmas events, new exciting advertisers and an important change to our recycling instructions

Winter Winter r Events Events s Pages Pages

2.30pm performance already sold out

Christmas Party Night with live music from

Two Le Feet Saturday 9th December 7.30pm Heart of England Social Club Tickets £12.50 including supper available from Sue 01676 522540: Carole 01676 522888 Commi ee members and the Club

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Meriden Rotary Club Santa Sleigh Collections in the Village Santa will be visiting Meriden, as usual, this year to check his route and talk to the boys and girls.

On both days he hopes to start his tour at 5.45pm and finish by 8.00pm so that he can get back home in good time. He needs to have plenty of sleep before the big day!

Thursday 14th December Start in Maxstoke Lane near The Green Wyatt Way Letitia Way Way Jubilee Close On to Main Road Strawberry Fields Glover’s Close Waterfall Close Main Road Old Road (finishing at the Queen’s Head)

Friday 15th December Start – Archery Road Fillongley Road Kittermaster Road Highfield Road Fillongley Road Alspath Road Arden Close Fairfield Rise The Croft

Friday 15th December continued On to Leys Lane Centenary Drive St Laurence close Mons Avenue Leys Lane Fillongley Road (finishing at the bridge)

This year the charities we will be collecting for are Niemann-Pick UK, particularly the local group “Harvey and the Brave Little Soldiers,” The Rotary Foundation which is heavily involved with the Worldwide eradication of polio and other charities.

Carols Carols on on the the Green Saturday Saturday16 16ththDecember December 5.00pm 5.00pm We Wewill willbe besinging singing all all the the favourite favouritecarols. carols.

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Meriden Primary School are holding a fund-raising Spring Ball, Saturday 2nd March 2024 at the Strawberry Bank Hotel See school pages at the back of this issue for more information

Firebird Singers Update We have had a very busy, successful few months since our last update. Special thanks to everyone who supported our September concert. We hope you won a prize on our Wheel of Fortune which raised an amazing £250 for this year’s charity The Air Ambulance Service.

Also, in September we held our annual Macmillan Coffee morning at the Village Hall. This year it was combined with a craft fayre and book sale. We were delighted to see so many villagers attending and the event raised an incredible £710

This year we have been selling Christmas cards to support the Air Ambulance, thank you everyone who has bought cards.

We sold an amazing £560 worth, the charity shop in Solihull, who supplied them, were delighted. We are now practicing hard for our Christmas concert at the Manor Hotel, on Sunday 10th December called “The Spirit of Christmas”– A Christmas concert with a twist! We look forward to welcoming you all to the Manor to get your Christmas festivities off to a good start. Finally, we are sending many congratulations to our Chair Abbie and her husband Dan on the birth of their beautiful baby daughter Valerie Martin 01676 522 963

) Winter/SpringProgramme Programme2024 2024::Saturday Saturday20 20ththJanuary Winter/Spring January th th February Saturday Saturday17 17 February March Saturday Saturday16 16ththMarch InInthe theNew NewYear Yearwe welook lookforward forwardtotoscreening screeningaaselection selectionof ofrecently recentlyreleased releasedfilms films which which are are currently currently showing showing inin commercial commercial cinemas. cinemas. These These will will include include “A “A Haunting Hauntingin inVenice”Venice”-(the (thelatest latestKenneth KennethBranagh Branaghproduction productionbased basedon onthe theAgatha Agatha Christie Christie novel) novel) and and The The Miracle Miracle Club Club “(Starring “(Starring Dame Dame Maggie Maggie Smith).

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Meriden Surgery

01676 522252

School House, 200 Main Road, Meriden, CV7 7NG Partners - Dr M Bhandal Dr T Nadeem Dr R Horsley Associates GPs - Dr A Omokanye, Dr N Hudders, Dr J Hothi, Dr R Newman, Dr F Mufaz

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 FLU AND COVID AUTUMN BOOSTER VACCINATIONS We are now booking appointments for the covid and flu vaccinations. We will have weekday appointments available, as well as Saturday morning clinics. Please remember that parking can be very busy, so try to walk or get a lift if possible.

Both vaccinations can be given together in our covid clinics, or if you are only eligible for a flu vaccine or prefer to have them separately, you can book into a specific flu clinic. If you are attending the surgery to see a doctor or nurse, please ask for your flu vaccine. We will be happy to do this at the same time. Please inform the surgery if you are housebound as we will be delivering these too, but this could possibly be a longer wait.

More information is available be on the Practice website.

Questions? Please email nhsbsolicb.balsall.covid@nhs.net

Goodbye The Practice has had to say goodbye to Dr Blaggan. We would like to wish him the very best in his future ventures.

Welcome The Practice would like to welcome the following new staff members, Dr J Hothi – Salaried GP Dr J Hothi will be in Practice Wednesdays and Fridays Dr R Newman – Salaried GP Dr R Newman will be in Practice Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays Dr F Mufaz– Salaried GP Dr F Mufaz will be in Practice Mondays and Tuesdays

Congratulations Congratulations to our staff member Rebecca Jordan, who has now taken on the role of Deputy Practice Manager at the Balsall Common and Meriden Group Practice. We wish her every success in her new role

Patient online services As your GP practice, we have been asked by NHS England to provide you with access to your full primary care medical record going forward from 31st October 2023. This will be via the NHS app and the NHS website if you have a suitable NHS login.

Please note this access is only to your prospective primary care record. This does not include hospital records or results of investigations requested anywhere else, as these are not available on the primary care record.

There is likely to be sensitive and personal information within your medical record.

We are supportive of providing you with access to your record, but we wish to do this safely and make you aware that this is happening so that you can opt out if you so wish.

It is important that you understand the risks that may be involved in having such confidential data, either on your smartphone with the NHS app installed, or online, if other people might have access to that information through your devices.

The government has been clear that if a patient does not wish to have access, then we do not have to provide it.

Changes to our appointment booking Extended Access Service has changed site and the service will no longer operate from the Balsall Common Health Centre. The Extended Access Service will be based at the Dorridge Surgery. All other arrangements remain the same. Please continue to book into this service via our Reception Team at the Balsall Common and Meriden Surgeries.

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 attending the Practice.

All up to date Practice Information can be found on our website

www.balsallcommonsurgery.co.uk

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 discussing any worries or concerns.

Please ask one of our receptionists to book an appointment.

Contact 07803 282 583 01676 521 535 Director NEIL MASSEY

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ST. LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS Priest in Charge: Church Wardens:

Rev Kevin Flanagan Jonathan Douglas 01676 522455 Carol Clarke 07500 700679 churchwarden.meriden@gmail.com Church Website: https://stlaurencemeriden.wordpress.com Find us on Facebook: St Laurence Church Meriden

Winter Service Details Date 3rd Dec 10th Dec

Service Holy Communion Family Service Christmas

17th Dec 24th Dec 24th Dec

Carol Service - 6:30 pm

Morning Prayer Midnight Communion – 11:30 pm

25th Dec

Joint Service at Methodist Church st 31 Dec Morning Prayer Holy Communion 7th Jan th Joint Service at 14 Jan Methodist Church st Holy Communion 21 Jan th Family Service 28 Jan th 4 Feb Holy Communion th 11 Feb Joint Service at Methodist Church th 18 Feb Holy Communion 25th Feb Family Service All services are at 10:30 am and at St. Laurence unless stated otherwise.

Please check the web site.

Carols on the Green Saturday 16th December at 5pm

I’m sure I’m not the only one who is hearing that steady drumbeat of Christmas with that strange mixture of both excitement and dread at the same time. I’ve always loved Christmas; there is something just so special about the season. A time not just of great food and presents, but also an occasion for families to get together in a way we are so often just too busy to do.

Since I became a vicar, a new aspect was added to Christmas. For Clergy it is one of the busiest times of the year, but also one of the most satisfying. However, on the downside, we often hear today how Christmas is one of the loneliest times of the year as well, which I can well imagine. When you are continually bombarded by happy music and people greeting you with big smiles and a “Happy Christmas”, it’s a tough time to be alone.

While I’m not the sort of person who enjoys adopting American culture to the detriment of our own, I must admit that when I see American films that feature ‘Thanksgiving’, I always feel a tinge of jealousy that we don’t have an equivalent here.

An occasion where groups gather, and it seems important that no one is left out, even people we don’t know very well.

As Yeats is attributed to saying, “A stranger you meet is just a friend you don’t know yet”.

I suppose it’s partly with that thought in mind that, from December, I’m planning to spend every Monday morning between 10 and 11 o’clock at the Café in the Barn at Berryfields.

I know you might be thinking that that is hardly a sacrifice. Going to a café to drink nice coffee (and maybe eat a fantastic cake as well!).

But the idea is that I’ll be there to talk to anyone who wants a chat but maybe is a bit nervous about entering a church, so would prefer a more informal setting. Maybe it’s to talk about a Wedding or a Christening? Or maybe you just want a chat about anything really?

Whatever it may be, I’d love to see you, so please just come on up and say hello!

Hopefully y e you u soon,, see d Blesss God n Kevin

For any enquiries about Baptisms and Weddings, or pastoral needs, please contact the church warden: Carol Clarke on 07500 700679 churchwarden.meriden@gmail.com

Contact numbers Sue 01676 522540 Carol 01676 522888

Email MeridenCRUK@gmail.com Season’s Greetings from Sue, Carol and the Meriden Committee!

We wonder how many of the avid, eagle-eyed Meriden Mag readers have noticed a subtle change to the Cancer Research logo and the tagline being used in the television campaign over the last couple of months. The logo has been made simpler, for digital applications (which at least saves our printer ink, see above!) but the bigger change is that the tagline takes a more positive tone by altering just a couple of words from; “Together we will beat Cancer” to, “Together we are beating Cancer.” Cancer Research UK want to emphasise that they are already beating cancer and are helping people to live longer and better lives free from fear of cancer. In the UK, five-year survival rates now exceed 90% for some cancer types. Here in Meriden, your continued support for CRUK and the events we arrange locally helps raise valuable funds for research and solutions for dealing with cancers of all types. THANK YOU. Since the last edition of the Mag we have returned to “Halloween at The Barn” at Berryfields to sell our spooky delights to the skaters, axe-throwers and pumpkin hunters attending their event. We raised a massive £735. Thanks to all at Berryfields and those who attended and purchased so many of our Halloween goodies Our main October “In the Pink & Blue” fundraiser at the Manor Hotel saw Gareth Williams taking on the royal role of King Charles I. This sell-out event, included several stalls that providing many different purchasing opportunities, The whole event raised a record breaking £3,600 for our charity. Huge thanks to Gareth, the Manor Hotel and their staff, our stallholders, all our volunteers and of course all of you who attended and supported the evening.

This event also saw the reappearance of a wide range of our Christmas knitted and crocheted items and, at the time of going to press, we still have some available so if you fancy a jolly hat or a snowman, a rocking robin, a plump pudding or a little angel, give Sue or Carol a call! Only £3 for the large ones on a Terry’s chocolate orange and £1 for the smaller ones on a Ferrero Rocher.

Our last event for this year will be held at the Heart of England Social Club on Saturday 9th December, doors open at 7.30pm. It will feature live entertainment from “Two Left Feet,” hot seasonal fare and a bumper raffle. Tickets for this popular event are £12.50 Please see advert on the events page of the Mag

Next year we will continue to arrange several activities to raise funds for our chosen charity and we hope you will be able to join us at any or all of them! If you would like to become involved in any of these fundraisers, whether that be joining the Committee, volunteering to help, sponsoring or contributing, Sue and Carol would love to hear from you.

In the meantime, we hope you have a great Christmas and look forward to seeing you in 2024.

Happy y Platinum m Anniversary y John n & Joan n Briggss Celebrating g their r 70th Wedding g Anniversary y r 2023 3 31st October

Meriden Rotary Club present a cheque for £5000 to Maxine Courtney from DEBRA

A New Garden for Meriden?

Our r Life e Together r 70 0 yearss off marriage e 0 Monthss off Hugss 840 3,652 2 Weekss off Laughter r 25,550 0 Dayss off Patience e 613,200 0 Hourss off Love e

A whole e lifetime e off preciouss memoriess

A very successful Quiz Night Residents of Leymere Close held their annual fundraising quiz at Meriden Village Hall on 28th October.

They raised an amazing £650 for the Alan Lole Tree of Thought. Special thanks to local businesses who donated raffle prizes: Budgens, Queen's Head, The Bull’s Head, Coventry Wholesale Meats and Meriden Co-op.

We are looking to develop a new garden for Meriden and need your ideas of what would be of benefit to local people.

There is a piece of land behind the Methodist Church which is currently underused What do you think would be a good use for it?

We have so far thought about a reflec ve garden, a sensory garden, a secret garden, mini plots for growing vegetables that people who fancied an allotment but not the level of work, or children who wanted to garden. The vision is that it could be used for garden gatherings and that people could use it personally for gardening or reflec on. At this stage we need ideas, we will also need donated items such as tools, plants and decora ons.

Any offers of help would be most welcome Please email Julie on jsewing.js@gmail.com

Balsall & District Hor cultural Society are very proud to present Gardeners Ques on me on Tuesday 13th February 2024 at the Heart of England School Balsall Common.

Tickets will be offered to BDHS members first and then made available to everyone through the commi ee Further details have yet to be confirmed by the BBC so please check the website for more informa on as it becomes available www.bdhs.club

CAMEO – Come and Meet Each Other 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.

Winter Meetings are planned as follows: December 15th - Come and join us to

Hi everybody, well Christmas will soon be upon us again! This year seems to have flown by.

Here’s what we’ve been up to.

In September, Peter Leake came to give us a talk on “From Swallows to Jaguar” which is the 100 years history of Jaguar cars. It was a very interesting talk by Mr Leake who is really enthusiastic about the subject. We had a very good turnout, with a few more men than usual. We had a very good questions and answers session and a good afternoon was had by all.

In October, Ken Sherlock came to give us a talk on when he went canoeing down the Grand Canyon in America.

It was accompanied by a slide show. As usual Ken’s adventures were very interesting and humorous. On this occasion, he was accompanied by a group of friends. Ken never fails to entertain and we all enjoyed it very much.

In November, The Rev. Kevin Flanagan, who is new to the village, came to introduce himself to us. We in turn could introduce ourselves and welcome both him and his wife to the village and wish them both a happy ministry at St Laurence Church (photo below).

celebrate Christmas with Christingle and carols with Margaret and Tom Oliver. It will be a fun afternoon, combined with the drawing of the raffle, and will get us all into the Christmas spirit.

January 26th - We are having a quizzing afternoon which everyone enjoys.

February 23rd - This will be arranged in due course

Listening to Ken Sherlock’s ‘Grand Canyon adventure’ talk.

Art Classes for all!

Dates for Hoisting the Flag on Meriden Green: 9th January – Birthday of the Princess of Wales 20th January – Birthday of the Duchess of Edinburgh 19th February - Birthday of the Duke of York

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

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** £2 OFF when you show the Meriden Mag ** Please be aware that the entrance from Shepherds Lane is closed. This means that motorists from Meriden need to drive to the Stonebridge Island and U-turn back towards Meriden to access us from the A45.

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1st Meriden Scout Group and Explorer Unit - News from the Green Hut 1st Meriden Cubs A new school term means an intake of new cubs. We welcomed Ivan and Ismae as they joined us and took their promise like every Scout over the world. We took advantage of the fine autumn weather and cooked sausages on sticks and melted Smoores that always go down well.

A hike around our beautiful woods at Millison’s Wood might have kept the wildlife up with the cubs’ cheerful commotion, but hopefully the neighbourhood didn’t mind their racket whilst they searched the wood for labels hanging from trees on the orienteering course they had been set.

Lots of crafts in the autumn term, origami - making finger fortune tellers and paper water bombs, (always a useful thing to teach a 10-year-old I feel!).

We taught them to wrap up a present. Some had theirs rejected several times, as the leaders were only accepting perfection on this task. On the theme of wrapping, we filled and decorated four shoe boxes and filled them with gifts to give to less fortunate children.

The sixers had their own evening to run. Bella, Flynn, Max and Roman came with activities and games to fill the ninety minutes: touch rugby, a version of blindman’s buff, making Gonks and how to draw a shark starting with the number seven.

Badges- we have a computer genius amongst our young leaders, so this term we are covering Digital Citizen, teaching them how to be safe whilst using the web and Digital Maker. This will be where they tell the leaders how to do things on computers! We are also covering our Global Issues badge at the end of the term, another new one introduced by the Scout Association.

Lynda If you would be interested in coming along and helping with our leadership team you would always be welcome.

Family Bonfire The now traditional Scout Group Family Bonfire took place on Monday 6th November 2023. The theme this year was ‘Pirates’ In advance of the 6th November a lot of hard work had gone into preparing for the evening, making canons, and a Pirate ships figurehead, together with lots of gold coins - kept in the treasure chest (all of these had been made out of cardboard). The young people had also been very busy making their Pirate headwear. This work demonstrated that there are a lot of real artists and crafts people in the Group (adults as well as young people). On the Sunday the turf was cut for the fire place, the fire prepared and the Hut decorated with pirate flags and bunting.

On the 6th November, while the Bonfire was keeping everyone warm outside the Scout Hut, (the fire being looked after by the Pirate Captain and his crew, all dressed in their pirates’ rig). Other members of the crew inside the Hut helped everyone enjoy a range of food and warming drinks.

Also, inside the Scout Hut or should that be Pirates Lair a range of indoor activities had been arranged including Indoor Archery, meant to test the Pirates skills (both parents and the Scouts including Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers). There was also a wide range of table top games and drawing activities to involve all ages.

It was great to see all the young people and parents having a good time. As usual at the Bonfire, there was a raffle and the winner walked off with a pirate sailing ship (small scale of course).

None of this could have happened without the ongoing work of the Volunteer Leaders and the small number of Group supporters.

Thank you all who support the Scout Groups activities.

Meriden Scout Group Planning expansion of their meeting Hut The Meriden Scout Group have recently received Planning Permission from the Borough Council to extend the Scout Hut. The present building was built in the 1970s, thanks to the efforts of the then, parents and supporters of the Cubs and Scouts, together with the voluntary leaders of the sections. Before the current hut was built, the Scout Group used an old wooden hut on the same site. We have a photo showing that hut being dismantled and a model of it which is kept in the entrance hall.

We are planning to extend the building at the far end, away from the main doors. Currently, we are talking to builders to obtain quotes for the work. Once we have these quotes, we can then seek financial assistance from grant awarding bodies and any other supporters who can help us, together with our own fundraising efforts.

Once completed, it is planned that there will be an extension of two floors, with the ground floor being for storage and the upper floor having a small office room. This extension will enable us to move things out of the main hall so giving more space and let us have a meeting room.

It is early days yet, but if you can help us in any way with this new chapter in the development of the 1st Meriden Scout Group or would like more details of our plans, please do contact me.

Gerry Russell – Group Scout Leader, 1st Meriden Scout Group Telephone: 01676 522666 Email: g.j.russells@gmail.com Beavers: Beavers:Boys Boysand andgirls girlsaged aged66––8:8:Monday Mondayevening evening6.30 6.30- -7.30pm: 7.30pm: Cub Cub Scouts:Boys Boysand andGirls Girlsaged aged88- -10.5: 10.5:Thursday Thursdayevening evening6.45 6.45- -8.15pm 8.15pm C Scouts: Scouts: Scouts:Boys Boysand andGirls Girlsaged aged10.5 10.5––14: 14:Tuesday Tuesdayevening evening7.00 7.00- -9.00.pm 9.00.pm Explorer Explorer Scouts: Scouts:Male Maleand andFemale Femaleaged aged14 14––18: 18:Monday Mondayevening evening7.45 7.45- -9.45 9.45 EEx x Please Pleaseemail email 1stmeridenscouts@gmail.com 1stmeridenscouts@gmail.com for formore moreinformation information

YOUR COUNCILLORS

JAMES HUGHES

MARIE WOOLLARD

CHAIR

VICE-CHAIR

MALCOM EGGAR

AMY EBURNE

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY - As we do every year, the Parish Council will be running the closing of the Main Road to Leys Lane for the Remembrance Parade.

This will be from 10:15am to 12pm. All are welcome to the Service in the Methodist Church which will commence at 10:30am Sunday 12th November.

Following this, the parade will begin at the memorial on the corner of Berkswell Road, opposite Meriden Pool duck pond.

COUNCIL UPDATES - This past month we have welcomed a new councillor, Jess Finch, who is a keen environmentalist and has already got stuck into our Climate Change Plan! This coming month, we will also be welcoming a new Clerk with lots of experience, which is very exciting.

RICHARD WILD

NICOLA CAMPBELL JESS FINCH NEW COUNCILLOR

MEETING SCHEDULE – Come & join us at The Pavilion for our monthly Full Council Meetings. All meetings are an opportunity for members of the public to address the council with any questions, issues or concerns they may have.

Full Council meetings are on every 3rd Monday of the month, so the next ones are:18th December,, 22nd d Januaryy and d 19th h February..

All meetings start at 7.30pm.

In addition to the Full Council meetings, - The Planning, Transport, Environment & Climate Change committee meet every first Thursday of the month.

- The Finance, Governance & Personnel committee meet every second Monday of the month.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT If you have an older, fossil fuel boiler, you could be eligible for the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme. The scheme can provide up to £7,500 towards a new, cleaner heat source to improve the carbon footprint of your home. Ask your gas provider or call Ofgem on 0330 053 2006 for more information about your eligibility and to find local accredited installers.

We will be starting a big project on the Leys Lane allotments after clearing plots with tenants. Our plans are to make the allotments more accessible, open for sunlight, and available, with plans to add raised beds, fruit trees, and smaller plots for more residents to grow their own produce. Councillors and the Clerk have worked tirelessly over the last few months to improve the space, so we hope that in the Spring there will be plenty of growth for tenants to enjoy.

As most will have noticed, the Birmingham Road/Main Road resurfacing has finally been completed, and the Road is much smoother to drive on. The orcas have also been removed from the road and a 30mph speed limit has been put in place. We will be contributing feedback on the speed limit reduction and changes in the road layout to SMBC with the aim to work together for improved road safety for all road users.

We also have a new monthly e-newsletter. You will be able to easily sign up to this once our new website is ready, but for now you can email the clerk at clerk@meridenparishcouncil.org.uk to be added to the mailing list.

Meriden Library News A recommendedTelephone holiday/leisure read :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 Hours Monday 10am – 1pm, 2pm – 5pm Tuesday 10am – 12:30pm Thursday 10am – 12:30pm Christmas and New Year Opening Times Please see the library or visit the library website www.solihull.gov.uk/Libraries for the latest updates on Christmas and New Year opening times.

Meriden Library has free 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.

Stories & 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.

Christmas Storytime On Monday 18th December, join us at 2:15pm for a fun Christmas-themed story time. We’ll read one of our favourite seasonal stories, followed by some hands-on Christmas creativity.

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

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 December – Our usual seasonal meeting.

Wed 10th January – A Canadian author, fact or fiction.

Wed 14th February – A 30s author, fact or fiction.

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

Book Review by Peter Moss ‘Surviving to Drive’

By Gunther Steiner The title is a word play on the extremely popular Netflix TV programme ‘Drive to Survive’.

The author has been voted the viewers’ favourite and his new found fame seems to follow him. Gunther is an Italian motorsport engineer and has been involved for the past 30 years. The TV programme in which he features along with many other well-known faces, has been named as the main influence behind the recent massive world-wide increase in the popularity of Formula 1 racing. In fact, a number of other sports are already planning similar programmes. Gunther is team principal and manager of the American owned Haas Formula 1 team and the book covers his personal account of the 2022 season, covering the highs and lows with extreme honesty. Those who watch the programme would not expect him to pull any punches and he tells it all. There is some bad language but it is mainly dealt with by using phonetic spelling. I think this book will entertain not only F1 fans but also people new to the sport.

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|Dog Training | Residential training | |Field hire of secure 10 acres Inc pond

BALSALL COMMON U3A

and woodlands|

Thursday 7th Dec – “Big Band Concert”. Music by the

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

U3A swing division.

Thursday 4th Jan – “Longitude – Quest for East to West”. A talk by John McCormack.

Thursday 1st Feb – “Entertainment Talk” A talk by Steve Rimmer.

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

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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

News highlights from Heart of England School

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Drone photo by David Jones

The summer break is an opportunity for refreshing some of the wear and tear on our buildings and for making larger improvements to school. This year we have taken a big step forward by installing some infrastructure of the future – solar panels.

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Meetings are held at 7pm at Meriden Village Hall, Main Road CV7 7NG

All women over 18 are welcome to join. Come and dip your toe in the water, free of charge. Meetings are only part of the story. We have a book group, lunch club, darts team, walking group and we love attending live events. Guest speakers attend some of our main meetings. For example:In September, Linda Bigham, former Lord Mayor of Coventry, told her inspirational life story of hard work paying off.

In October, local resident Sue Stretton, gave us an insight into the work of her charity, Healing Hands Network, currently supporting many people in Ukraine.

In November, we really enjoyed a talk by our new vicar, Kevin Flanagan.

We got some exercise by walking around Hatton Locks (followed by refreshments at the cafe) and we have been practising darts, breakfasting at Oakes Farm cafe, and reading and reviewing 2 good books.

Members also went to The Abbey Theatre, Nuneaton to watch "Kinky Boots", a truly fun and entertaining production. (see photo below – waiting for it to start)

Upcoming events in winter are : 4th December - Christmas party with party games, live entertainment and buffet.

8th January - Demonstration by Ann Tyson on Mosaic 5th February - Ian Davidson from the National Beekeepers Association on how to help our bee population There will be another exercise opportunity, walking around Shustoke reservoir, plus lunch at The Boat in Catherine de Barnes, and more good books to read and review:- Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus followed by a Christmas theme for December, Letters from Father Christmas by JRR Tolkien.

Berkswell WI has also invited us to join in a trip to Chatsworth House which will be dressed for Christmas.

All Together Café Meriden Sports Pavilion Any time between 2pm and 4pm 8th Dec 12th Jan 9th Feb

We hope that some of our activities will spark your interest. Please ring me for further information.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Della Mannix , Secretary 07920 014909 meridenwi@hotmail.com

Drop in for tea, coffee, cake and chat.

Meet your neighbours. Play board games.

We always have an enjoyable time.

Do join us soon – call 01676 522666 if you would like transport.

Getting Ready for Christmas Christmas is the time to decorate our homes. The garden and hedgerows are a useful source of greenery.

A simple vase of evergreen branches, holly, pinecones, bare twigs and possibly some fresh flowers are an attractive addition. A door wreath can be made using a purchased ring and filling it with natural materials. Using florist wire attach the greenery to the ring, add red ribbon bows and silver sprayed pinecones to make the wreath more colourful. Don’t forget to add a hanging loop.

Mistletoe is used hanging up and tradition determines that people kiss under it.

Wreathed in myth and legend, mistletoe makes an unusual addition to gardens- why not try growing your own.

Years ago, people saw mistletoe as a magical plant, a bushy little shrub with no roots that mysteriously remained green, high up in tree branches, while the leaves fell all around it.

Mistletoe comes as male or female plants and, of course, like holly, only the females carry berries. So, it’s wise to sow a number of seeds in different places to be sure you end up with plants of both. Use fresh berries and “sow” them as soon as they’re picked in late winter or early spring. Apple trees are the ideal hosts – the mistletoe likes apples and the low height of dwarf trained trees makes the process easy to manage. Find a natural crevice in the bark or make a shallow cut to create a small flap. Remove the seeds from the fleshy berries and insert them into the crevice or under the flap. Finish by covering with hessian to protect the seeds from birds. To ensure greater success, sow quite a few seeds at each site as only one in ten seeds germinate, and both male and female plants are needed for berries to form.

Mincemeat 250g raisins 375g currants 100ml brandy zest of 1 lemon, juice of ½ 300g shredded suet 250g dark brown sugar 85g chopped mixed peel 85g chopped glace cherries ½ small nutmeg, grated 1 large Bramley apple, peeled and grated.

Apple Mincemeat Jalousie

Soak the raisins and currants in the brandy and lemon juice for 1 hr until plumped up, then drain and set the brandy aside. Mix all the ingredients together in the order given, then pour in the brandy when everything else is well mixed. Spoon and press into sterilised jars, to exclude any air and leave for at least a fortnight. Will keep in the fridge for up to 6 months. Makes 4 x 500g jars

Ingredients

Method

400 g mincemeat 1 small Bramley cooking apple (225 g) zest of 1 orange ½ teaspoon mixed spice 2 tablespoons rum or brandy 1 x 375 g fresh ready-rolled puff pastry a little plain flour, for dusting To finish Milk for brushing 1 dessertspoon granulated sugar 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon sifted icing sugar

Roll out the pastry to 7 inches wide and 18 inches long, cut in half.

Place one strip (9 by 7 in) onto a wetted baking tray. Spread mincemeat over leaving a one-inch border all round, thinly slice the apple and place on top of the mincemeat. Sprinkle with sugar. Add the rum or brandy. Damp the pastry edge all round. Fold the other strip in half and cut slits from the fold to one inch from the edge. Place over the filling and press down. Brush the top with milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake in oven 200°C or gas mark 7 for 25-30 minutes. Sprinkle with icing sugar, cut in slices and serve hot.

Editor’s note: We would like to thank Charlie for the beautiful, informative farm pages she has provided for us since summer 2021. She will be a hard act to follow. We are sure you will want to join us in wishing Charlie all the very best in her new venture in New Zealand.

PUZZLE PAGE – No. 18 Hexagon – each hexagon is divided into 6 triangles.

Chain Link – Place the numbers 1 to 6 in each

The sum of the 6 numbers within each hexagon is always 25. Using only numbers 1 - 9, complete the puzzle. A number cannot be repeated in a hexagon.

row, column and along each series of squares linked by the chain.

MISSING LINK - FIT 10 WORDS INTO THE GRID BELOW SO EACH ONE CONNECTS UP WITH THE WORDS ON EITHER SIDE. E.G. WISHING – WELL – DONE

Binary – each row and column must contain 5 0s and 5 1s. The same number cannot appear in more than 2 consecutive squares in any row or column. There can be no identical rows or identical columns.

READ DOWN THE LETTERS IN THE SHADED SQUARES TO REVEAL A SCIENTIFIC STUDY

If you want the answers, just email me chrisbannister56@aol.com

A lovely 2.5 mile local Winter walk starting at the Queen’s head – kindly provided by Rich Copland This leisurely winter’s walk takes about an hour and a half. The public footpaths are clearly marked and well kept. Begin at the Queen’s Head pub, where pied wagtails often flit acrobatically around the car park hunting for insects. Then head off along Old Road in a westerly direction. After a couple of hundred yards turn right at the footpath sign, through the metal gate and into the rough grassy paddock. Where the path divides at the telegraph pole take the left-hand track.

The wooden bridge over the stream takes you into a vast field of root crops. The path then follows the ditch and hedge where robins, blue tits, and blackbirds find food and shelter. On the left a row of veteran oak trees marks the remnants of a hedgerow dating back approximately 300 years to the Enclosure Acts. One of these trees has been pollarded and has a completely hollow trunk with orange bracket fungus growing inside. I submitted details of this oak to The Woodland Trust’s ancient tree inventory, which will hopefully give it some extra protection. Continue on the track beside the deep ditch to where the hedge zigzags left then right. The pond surrounded with willows is a magnet for bird life. I spotted a brightly coloured jay exploring the water’s edge. The track then narrows between a sports ground fence and a dense hedge. On milder days in this sheltered spot a few surviving wasps can be seen feeding on nectar-rich ivy flowers. Just before the Fillongley Road, go through the metal gate and turn sharp right into the field of root vegetables.

From here the sandstone tower of St Laurence church can be seen nestled in the tree line to the south. The path now descends towards a clump of old oaks surrounding a field pond. Listen out for the tapping of a green woodpecker feeding high up on dead timber. A bridge crosses the ditch, then the path climbs uphill towards the A45. A metal gate opens onto the path at the top of the embankment above the dual carriageway. Finches flock together with other small birds to feed in the belt of trees that screen the road. After a couple of hundred yards the path opens onto Walsh Lane.

Turn left and cross the road bridge. The distinctive red brick chimneys of Walsh Hall peep above high fencing. This timber framed Grade 2 listed building dates back to the 15th century. It was once owned by musician Jeff Lynne, founding member of Electric Light Orchestra, who sold it to UB40’s Robin Campbell. The footpath is picked up again on the right of Walsh Lane. A line of four large oak trees marks out the route ahead. This is a high point with expansive views across the surrounding countryside. Large flocks of wood pigeons feed in this area and birds of prey target these pigeons. A female sparrowhawk is the most likely predator, however there are occasionally peregrine falcons hunting across in this area.

Pied Wagtail

Fieldfare

Green Woodpecker

Robin

Sparrowhawk

Just before arriving at Lodge Green Lane there is an attractive pond. During colder spells, listen out for the chattering calls of fieldfares as they fly in to feast on berries in the nearby trees. Retrace the route to the A45 bridge and then walk south on the verge of Walsh Lane. The tall mast on the eastern skyline is near to the underground bunker used by the Royal Observer Corps during the Cold War. In the event of a nuclear attack, volunteers would attempt to report the location of bomb bursts and radiation levels.

(Photo on next page).

A couple of hundred yards beyond the junction of Walsh Lane with Eaves Green Lane turn right onto the signed path beside the metal farm gates. Continued on next page.

Walk con nued. When you reach the tall poplar trees, a wooden bridge takes you back to the rough grass field and the star ng point on Old Road.

The Queen’s Head has an interes ng history and is worth a visit. It was built as a private home, becoming an alehouse in the 1600s. With the advent of busy stage coach traffic between London and Holyhead it offered its services as a coaching inn. However, the inn’s fortunes changed in the early 1800s when the civil engineer, Thomas Telford, lowered the gradient on Meriden Hill to make it easier for the stage coaches. In doing so, the Queen's Head was unfortunately bypassed and other Meriden inns picked up much of the stage coach trade.

1950s schema c of the ROC Monitoring Post.

Major change to Solihull household recycling - all you need to know Solihull Council have rolled out changes to how households recycle their waste - and they have come into force already.

The authority has also moved its recycling capacity to Coventry, to a specialist plant that uses AI technology to separate items.

The change means that residents no longer need to separate glass from their other recycling. The council said glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles, plastic tubs, pots and trays, metal cans and aerosols, foil, cartons, paper and card can all go in residents’ brown bins, clear sacks or communal recycling bins. It means you put all your recycling straight into your brown bin, clear sacks or for flats, communal recycling bin.

Detailing the changes, Solihull Council’s cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, Cllr Ken Hawkins, said: “Recycling in Solihull has just got easier. There’s no need to separate out glass bottles and jars – just put all your recycling straight into your brown bin, clear sacks or communal recycling bin. Using the new recycling facility also means that residents who haven’t been able to recycle glass before, now have a full recycling service. Changing our recycling facility means more residents can recycle and it’s easier for everyone to recycle more of their waste. This will help us with our net zero carbon emissions plans and also help to combat climate change. BUT, please keep your old black recycling boxes as they will come in handy if you have too much recycling to put in your brown bins – particularly over the Christmas period when we all have lots of packaging and possibly more bottles too!”

The new Material Recycling Facility (MRF) in Coventry uses specialist AI technology to process dry mixed recycling into high quality products in the most sustainable and efficient way possible. It is run by Sherbourne Recycling Ltd and is jointly owned by Solihull Council and seven other local authorities across the West Midlands.

Source – Birmingham Mail – 3rd November

Trees and Wildlife of Meriden and Millison’s Wood d The Robin

Photo by Rich Copland

Robins in the snow mean Christmas so, as the festive season gets closer, they are my next subject. Voted as Britain's (unofficial) National Bird in both 1960 and 2015 they are everyone’s favourite, probably due to their confiding nature, happily hanging around and even following you about! They are opportunistic ground feeders and often follow larger animals, hoping they will disturb tasty insects and grubs for an easy meal, humans may even put out food especially for them! It is believed that robins can recognise humans, mostly through traits, such as the way they move, walk and even facial features and if they perceive you as a friend, they may well follow you whilst you’re still outside.

In turn, you’ll probably rightly assume that you’re seeing the same robin (or robins) in your garden, but can you differentiate? In theory yes, as each robin has a completely unique red breast pattern.

Robins live across Europe and over to Siberia and down to northern Africa. Those in Scandinavia, for example, head south in winter and may be joined by a few from the UK, but most British robins stay put all year round. Traditionally they were hunted elsewhere in Europe so are much shyer and more retiring there. In the US the bird they call robin is a different species; but it’s easy to see why early settlers named them after the red breasted bird familiar from Europe.

The robin is fiercely territorial and this is what has led to the development of its distinctive red breast. As is often the case in nature, it’s a warning, in this case that the apparently cute little bird will fight, sometimes to the death, to defend its territory. A dispute starts with males singing at each other, trying to get a higher perch or show off their breast most effectively. If one doesn’t back down it can escalate to a fight. During the breeding season, male robins usually sing from an hour before sunrise (starting the dawn chorus) to about 30 minutes after

American Robin Robin Eggs Juvenile Robin In mild conditions, robins can breed as early as January but usually from March. During the breeding season the female is allowed into the male’s territory where she builds a round nest from moss and leaves, lined with down or hair. It is usually about 2 metres off the ground, somewhere that offers some shelter and is well concealed. They can sometimes be found in unexpected locations, maybe in a flower pot, barbeque, bristles on an upturned broom or coat pocket to name just a few examples. Robins are known to abandon their nest if they think it has been discovered so be careful when nearby. A pair will often have between 3 and 5 clutches of 4 or 5 eggs; broods sometimes overlap with the male feeding chicks while the female is sitting on eggs. The eggs are a buff colour with pale brown freckles.

Females often eat the discarded egg shells for a calcium boost, presumably in preparation for laying the next clutch!

Robin chicks hatch after 13 days incubation and fledge 14 days later. Male and female robins look identical, but juveniles are brown with gold speckles, growing their red feathers after their first moult and are therefore kept out of territory disputes. Robins have such strong parenting instincts that there are a few known examples of them feeding chicks of other species, including one account of a male robin successfully rearing a brood of orphaned blackbirds.

The record for the oldest known robin is 19 years, but on average they live for 13 months. This is skewed by high mortality in the first year, predators and winter taking their toll. Quantity is the evolutionary tactic of the species; as prolific breeders numbers will generally bounce back!

So back to those robins in the snow; robins are present all year round so why do they appear so frequently on Christmas cards? Red is a colour that we associate with the festive season but that’s only part of the story. In Victorian times, the Royal Mail postman wore bright red uniforms (picture on the right) and were nicknamed robins. In tribute, the robin redbreast started to appear on cards holding envelopes in their beaks, or sitting on post boxes. And maybe there is also a link to earlier folklore with the robin being seen as a messenger of good wishes and joy!

If you’re interested in our trees, local wildlife and conservation in general, it would be great to hear from you.

Collaborators very welcome! Or visit the Facebook page Meriden and Millison’s Wood Trees. Dates for conservation work parties in Millison’s Wood are also notified there.

Sarah Sharland meridentreewardens@gmail.com

Meriden and Millisons Wood Trees

QUALITY AND FUN CLASSES IN N BALSALL COMMON and BERKSWELL!!!

Barkers Butts RFC Pickford Grange Lane Coventry CV5 9AR

Our professional and experienced d iinstructor nstrucntto or ccares aarres about each client and offers options to the exercises.

Class numbers are limited for your comfort and safety.

Mondays – St. Peters Church Hall, Balsall Common 09:15 am Pilates 10:15 am Gentle Pilates and Stretch 11:15 am Beginner Pilates Mondays – Heart of England School Dance Studio 6:00 pm Retro Dance Fit 7:00 pm Pilates Wednesdays – Reading Rooms, Berkswell 09:15 am and 10:15 am Pilates 11:30 am Young at Heart – for the over 70s Visit the website www.positivefitnessuk.co.uk

YOU’LL GET A VERY WARM WELCOME. FOR ANY QUERIES, PLEASE EMAIL POSITIVEFITNESSUK01@GMAIL.COM Or call Sally on 07778 124034 Hope to see you soon.

11 Mini & Junior age groups from 6-16 years Girls teams U/11 U/15 U/18 Under 18 Colts Side

Contact David Morris. 07557343639 Our facilities are 1st class and all our coaches are RFU Qualified and CRB checked

We also have 4 Adult sides 1st XV to Vets

There is now a new and exciting women's team coached by an experienced group of players led by

Contact Emma on 07557521495

T’ai T’aiChi Chi andand Meditation andand Relaxation Meditation Relaxation Come and discover how the

Come and discover how beautiful flowing movements the beautiful flowing of this ancient improve movements ofart thiscan ancient well-being. art canyour improve your wellRelax andRelax enjoyand simple calming being. enjoy relaxation andrelaxation meditation simple calming and meditation techniques. techniques

Mondays 9.30-10.30am Mondays 9.30-10.30am Meriden Village Hall Meriden Village Hall Call Jacqui on Call Jacqui on 07703 345210 07703 345210 The perfect start to your day ……….

The perfect start to your day………..

DOGGY Y DAY Y CARE E Days, weekends or longer.

In our home – stress free, nonkennel environment.

Only limited numbers of friendly dogs at any one time.

Highly experienced show exhibitor/trainer and dog breeder.

Excellent affordable rates.

TEL: 01676 522466 (Meriden) 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

Berkswell & District History Group Wednesday 29th Nov. - Christmas Social & ‘Stories from the Auction Room’.

An entertaining talk by Stephen Bruce about the auction business concluding with a roadshow where your items can be valued.

Wednesday 25th Jan - AGM followed by ‘Balsall Common Through the Ages in Photographs’.

A fascinating talk by Stephen Gill, about the local village and its history.

Wednesday, 26th Feb - ‘Civil Engineeringg Heritage in Warwickshire & the West Midlands’

TEL: 024 7647 0019

Indi Sangha Window Cleaning and Jet Washing Services Serving Meriden and Millison’s Wood area for over 20 years Call 07949 227402

An illustrated talk by Roger Cragg, featuring examples from Roman times to the current day.

Balsall Common Country Market

Refreshments will be provided at all these events.

First Saturday of the month in the British Legion.

Other Saturdays in the Jubilee Centre.

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!

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

Hampers can be ordered and delivered countrywide

Contact 01676 523007

Casemore Animal Feeds, Townfields Saddlers, Butt Lane, Coventry, CV5 9FE

WE HAVE MOVED INTO A LOVELY, BIG NEW BARN! COME ALONG AND SEE OUR WIDE RANGE OF ANIMAL FOODS. WE STOCK HORSE FEED, DOG & CAT FOOD, POULTRY FEED, SMALLHOLDER’S FEED, WILD BIRD SEEDS, PIGEON FEED, BEDDING, FISH FOOD AND FISHING BAITS

Servicing Repairs Tyres Exhausts Suspensions Brakes

Call C all u us s ffor or a quotation for your motoring needs

01676 521010 Find us just off Marsh Lane Near Lincoln Farm Truck Stop, B92 0LS Call for directions

Open 9-5 Monday to Saturday, Sunday 10-4 Bennetts Road North, Corley CV7 8BG

Telephone 01676 540178 07904 239 365

MERIDEN AGUAFLAME UK

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 Griffiths

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGE HALL The Village Hall Trustees are delighted to announce that the total refurbishment of the toilet facilities is now complete. Long overdue, the units have been stripped out and now provide up-to-date facilities which include a new, more easily accessible unit for the disabled and a baby-changing tray. New fixtures and fittings together with concealed lighting, better ventilation and redecoration all complete the project.

This work has only been possible following the award of a grant of £30,000 towards the total cost. This was generously awarded by the Landfill Trust on behalf of Lafarge Tarmac who operate in this area. We are most grateful to the Trust in guiding us through the process and ensuring that the new toilets will provide enhanced facilities for the benefit of all those who enjoy the use of the hall. In addition, we would like to thank all the loyal, regular users of the hall for their forbearance whilst the work was in progress and whilst minimum facilities were available. Their tolerance in accepting the Inconvenience of a Convenience is much appreciated! Hopefully, they will think it all worthwhile.

The Village Hall has been a vital asset to the life of the village for 75 years. As a boring statistic (requested by the grant-awarding body during the application process) its annual footfall is over 15,000 and that does not include the hundreds of those who only visit the hall to vote!

Many will not realize that the Village Hall is run entirely by volunteers for the benefit of the whole community. Most of the Committee members are now “of Riper Years” and we would welcome some energetic and enthusiastic younger volunteers to join the Management Committee in order that this vital part of village life continues to thrive.

How clever is this? ………..

A Message from our Solihull District Councillors Recent Flooding in Meriden The very heavy rainfall caused by Storm Babet in mid-October, led to severe flooding across the Solihull region. Here, in and around Meriden, flooding caused major difficulties for road users and, unfortunately, some

properties were flooded. Our sympathies go out to anyone who suffered the misery of having their properties flooded. The deluge was too much for the fields to soak up and this led to run-off into residents’ gardens. We contacted Solihull Council and an officer went to assess what work needed to be carried out immediately to try to stem the flow, and also in the longer term to try to prevent this happening again. We will be working with local landowners to look to undertake Tony, Heather and Andrew remedial works.

There was also significant flooding on the A452 near the Stonebridge Island. This was caused by the river Blythe bursting its banks. Solihull Council’s tanker team was stretched to the limit trying to relieve the pressure in critical areas and ensure that any residual flooding was contained to highways and other infrastructure and away from residents’ properties. We will continue to work with residents and council officers to reduce the risk and impact of flooding in our local area. If you are aware of any blocked drains or culverts, please let Severn Trent or Solihull Council know.

The end of the Orcas

Following the submission of the petition to remove the Orca kerbs which marked the cycle lane along the Birmingham Road in Meriden, Solihull Council Cabinet ratified the replacement of the Orcas, in addition to reducing the speed limit to 30mph, subject to consultation.

Council officers have now concluded investigations and collaborated with the Department for Transport on options to remove the Orca kerbs and wands and to provide soft segregation that is compliant with current standards and guidance. Officers have concluded that a single mandatory line demarcating the cycle lane in this location (approximately 1.5m in width) is appropriate if the speed limit is reduced to 30mph. A temporary order has been put in place to reduce the speeds to 30mph from Solihull MBCs boundary with Coventry into Meriden Village. This came into effect on the 12th October 2023, giving officers time to implement a permanent order. There will be a short period where the cycle lane is not in use to allow 30mph signs to be installed.

As part of the works, the Birmingham Road is being resurfaced from the roundabout at Showell Lane to west of Church Lane. This work commenced on 3rd October 2023. The section of this route will be lined with a mandatory cycle lane without any physical separation. The rest of the route to Bonneville Close will have the Orca kerbs removed.

No Laughing Matter - Ending the scourge of Nitrous Oxide Canisters

Cllr Tony Dicicco has been working closely with local residents to try to end the scourge of discarded Nitrous Oxide (NO) canisters. NO is the second most used drug by 16-24-year olds in England after cannabis! Tony lobbied our MP, Saqib Bhatti, who in turn contacted the Home Secretary. The government is now going to outlaw NO and categorise it as a class C drug.

This will help protect young people’s health and reduce litter.

Finally, we would like to wish all residents a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year.

If you wish to comment on the issues in this article, or any other local issues, then please contact us: tony.dicicco@solihull.gov.uk heather.delaney@solihull.gov.uk andrew.burrow@solihull.gov.uk

Healing Hands Network Update Our valuable work in helping Ukraine con nues. The war rages on even though it is not in the news now due to the terrible ba le in Gaza. We feel for those people who are caught up with the war with Hamas and who are being tortured and killed while others have had to flee their homes. It reminds me every day how fortunate we are to live where we do even if we think our country is in trouble. It does not compare to what others are having to live through.

The fantas c residents of Meriden and surrounding areas con nue to keep delivering humanitarian and medical items to me and I thank you all from the heart. Such generosity is brilliant. We gratefully received 16 boxes of aid from the Firebird Singers. St Laurence Church recently did a collec on for us and I extend a huge thank you to all who donated and raised £398 for our work. I also want to thank Meriden W.I. who once again hosted me and allowed me to present to them – such a great group of ladies I always love going there. Results are gorgeous handmade kni ed and crochet and monetary dona ons – thank you ladies.

I can’t imagine how you even begin to recover from this sort of damage let alone while being shelled. We are sending lots of cleaning products in bulk along with household items to be given to those who have lost everything.

Other areas con nue to be shelled and occupied and some are being liberated and then the recovery and rebuilding begins.

Our OurRefuge RefugeShelter Shelternear nearBakhmut Bakhmutisisalways alwaysfull, full,150 150beds. beds.

The Therunning runningcosts costsof ofthis thisisishuge hugeas asyou youcan canimagine. imagine.

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Right: Right:StaySafe StaySafedelivering deliveringaadonated donatedgenerator generator

Local people use it too to come and have a hot meal, shower, wash their clothes and maybe take some fresh ones.

80% of the country is s ll without power which also affects the sewage and water. We have provided massive generators for the shelter which serves as a hub and is a vital part of people’s survival in the region. We also support 9 hospitals with medical supplies and equipment.

We sent a van load of theatre supplies and equipment across in October. This has undoubtedly saved lives and helped numerous others.

planning againbefore beforeChristmas Christmaswith withgi s gi sfor forthe thechildren. children.We We will will be be taking shoeboxes for WeWe areare planning toto gogoagain for girls girls packaabox. box. Please Please make it for 1 child and boys ages yearssosoififyou youwant wanttotohelp, help,please pleasepack child and and label label and boys ofof allall ages upuptoto1616years it with the gender and age it is for you can gi wrap it and include a message if you want to. it with the gender and age it is for - you can gi wrap it and include a message if you want to. generously from from non-uniform Berkswell Primary schoolare arealso alsodoing doingthis this––they theyhave havealready alreadydonated donated generously non-uniform days days Berkswell Primary school and general collec ons for which we are hugely grateful.

I have plans to connect the school with the children and general collec ons for which we are hugely grateful. I have plans to connect the school with the childrenin in the refuge shelter and begin some interac on between them. the refuge shelter and begin some interac on between them.

Healing Hands continued

‘The military defending’ Our lads deliver to them too medical and first aid equipment and food.

Children making friends after being bombed out of their homes. At our refuge shelter near Bakhmut we have an education room where staff try to keep the children in education with the help of the laptops donated so kindly by our supporters.

If you would like to help us to con nue to help them, please get in touch with Sue Stre on 077344 62000 or email healinghandsnetwork@gmail.com. I have recently accepted a donated wheelchair, laptop, crutches and walking s cks, unwanted mobile phones, bedding, all toiletries plus prescrip on medicines in date and over the counter remedies for coughs, colds and sore throats. I am not currently taking clothing unless it is thermal as there is a stockpile but I will let you know when we can resume. Thank you., Sue.

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

In Meriden

Greetings from the Methodist Church Another year has flown by and once again we are back into the dark winter months. These months can be a lonely and isolating time and so we are really pleased to say that we will once again be operating a Warm Hub at the Church from January, offering a warm welcome, soup and rolls. This space also offers an opportunity for people to chat or, if preferred, to do a jigsaw or play games. There is no charge and the space is open to all on Wednesdays from 12.30 – 2.30.

As we reflect over the past year, it has not been an easy time for many people. The conflicts throughout the world have had an effect on everybody, and these, together with numerous climate related natural disasters across the globe, including here in the UK, alongside the added pressure so many are experiencing due to the cost of living crisis, has made it a particularly difficult time. As we near the end of this year, and as I am writing this, the war in Ukraine continues, though it is knocked off our screens by the terrible suffering and tragedy we see in the Middle East between Israel and Gaza.

Many people nowadays, tell me they have stopped watching the news as it all feels so desperate. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by it all, and we can question, ‘Where is God in all of this?’ but as someone said to me, God has already told us where he is in all this - ‘Emmanuel, God with us’. Emmanuel – the name the angels gave to Jesus when they announced his birth.

God isn’t some far off deity who keeps his distance. He is right here with us – as close as he ever will be. He knows what it is to suffer loss, pain and sadness, but he is also a God who is faithful to his promises. He has promised us that things won’t always be as they are now – that he will judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples, and they shall beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore. (Isaiah 2:4) God has promised that he will establish justice in the earth and while we may not see that now, we know that day will come and can trust his words.

Please come and join us to hear more about these promises and our faithful God who meets with us in Jesus. We meet at 10.30am at MMC except for the fourth Sunday of each month when we meet with our friends at St Laurence. Over Christmas we have our Carol Service on 17th December at 4 pm and then meet for a short service on Christmas Day at 10.00am. We would love to see you.

During the coming months we will be praying for each road in Meriden. If you would like us to pray for you or wish us to include a prayer in our next service, please let us know either on the above number or push a note under the front door of the church. We look forward to hearing from you

May you know God’s blessing as we go from 2023 into 2024.

Jane

Christmas Quiz Supper Club on 8th December at 7 pm.

Please let Jane or Mary Warr know if you would like to come for catering purposes.

Warm Hub at the Church from January, Wednesdays 12.30 2.30pm We will be offering a warm welcome, soup and rolls. This space also offers an opportunity for people to chat or, if preferred, to do a jigsaw or play games.

There is no charge and the space is open to all Lovely safe outdoor space

The Orme School of Dancing Meriden Branch – Meriden Methodist Church Hall Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Gymnastic email:ormedance@gmail.com Dance, Contemporary Dance Principals and Musical Theatre.

Jennifer and Samantha Faulkner Aged 2 ½ years upwards F.I.D.T.A BA.Hons www.ormecoventrydance.co.uk

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

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.orme@outlook.com

Rachel Ford Mobile Foot Health Practitioner fully insured and registered

07471 938 136 spruceandtoesfootcare@gmail.com

07904 239 365

All Meriden covered

MR FIX IT *Plumbing problems *Broken Garden Tools *Soldering *Welding *Brazing *Gates Fixed *Sheds Felted *Fencing *Household Items Fixed *Riveting *Garden Tools Sharpened *Security posts Fitted

If it can be fixed, I'll do my best to fix it.

Collection service available.

Public Liability Insurance: Simply Business MHGB2291989XB

Telephone Paul on 07889 789110 or 01676 521661

FACT OR FICTION? Whatever you write…….

Balsall Common Writers welcomes new members and invites you to join us.

We hold evening sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Balsall Common.

Please contact info.bcwriters@gmail.com

M.J. Mowing martin@mjmowing.co.uk Hedge Cutting Grass Cutting Pruning Strimming Weed Control – Pesticide Licensed Leaves Cleared No Job too small Competitive Prices

Call Martin for a Free Quote 07922 241 181

Heart Heartof of England England Social Social Club Club BERKSWELL BERKSWELLROAD ROADMERIDEN MERIDENCV7 CV77LB. 7LB. Call Call Steve Steve on on 01676 01676 522430 522430 Christmas Christmasopening openinghours: hours:Christmas ChristmasDay Day- -11.00am 11.00am––2.00pm 2.00pm Boxing BoxingDay Day -- 12.00noon 12.00noon -- 6.00pm We Wehave havea afew fewdates datesleft leftififyou youwould wouldlike liketotobook bookyour yourChristmas Christmasparty/ party/function. function. Contact Contact Steve Steve for details Wednesday WednesdayBingo Bingo12.30 12.30- 3.00pm - 3.00pmwith withBuffet Buffetlunch lunch£7.50 £7.50 Every EveryFriday, Friday,Bingo.

Bingo.First Firstgame gamestarts starts8.00pm 8.00pm th th Sunday Sunday1717 December December– –Xmas XmasParty Party&&“Meet “MeetSanta” Santa”ininthe theGarden Garden Lounge Lounge11.00am 11.00am- 2.00pm - 2.00pm- £1.00 - £1.00per perchild. child.(Book (BookEarly) Early) th th Xmas XmasEve Eve2424 December December– –“Two “TwoLeft LeftFeet” Feet”Duo DuoininJona’s Jona’sbar bar 6.00pm 6.00pm(free (freeentry) entry) One OneGreat GreatVenue-Two Venue-TwoGreat GreatParties PartiesNew NewYears YearsEveEve-Family FamilyParty Partyinin Jona’s Jona’sBar Bar&&The TheGarden GardenLounge.

Lounge.Tickets Tickets£1 £1per perchild. child.

New NewYear’s Year’sEve EveParty PartyNight Night(Adults (Adultsonly) only)InInthe the“Pointon “PointonSuite” Suite” Tickets Tickets£5.00 £5.00doors doorsopen open7.00pm 7.00pm Why Whynot notcome comealong alongMonday Monday- Friday - Friday12.00 12.00noon noon- -3.00pm 3.00pmand andsample sample our our food foodand andwarm warmwelcome welcomeininour ourrecently recentlyre-furbished re-furbished"JONA'S "JONA'SBAR".

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Room Roomdressing dressing and and catering catering available available for foryour your party party or or function. function.

Fancy Fancya agame gameofofsnooker snookerininour oursnooker snookerroom roomwith withtwo twofull fullsize size snooker snookertables tablesororenjoy enjoya agame gameofofpool poolorordarts dartsininour ourGames Gamesroom. room.

Bookings Bookingsbeing beingtaken takenfor foryour yourfamily familyparty, party,anniversary, anniversary,ororspecial specialevent event ininour our“Pointon “PointonSuite.”

Suite.”Function Functionroom, room,catering, catering,entertainment entertainment and androom room/ /table tabledecorations decorationsare areavailable available

Lovely Lovely safe safe outdoor outdoor space space

Used Stamps Wanted A charity called Medical Missionary News would be very grateful to receive the used stamps off your envelopes. Please leave at least 1” all around when cutting them. Please hand them in at Lloyds Chemist on the Green. The money raised will be used to buy medical supplies for war-torn countries overseas. Thank You.

DYSON BLINDS DYSON BLINDS We offer tailored Wemade-to-measure offer tailored made-to-measure blinds for any blinds for any window window solution. solution.

We have We have a widea wide selection of selection of fabrics, fabrics, and woodswoods and colours colours at at competitive competitive prices. prices.

Call now for a free no obligation home visit Telephone Matt on 07817 222627 01675 443655 Email: dysonblinds@gmail.com

THE ALAN LOLE MERIDEN TREE OF THOUGHT www.meridentreeofthought.co.uk As I write this, preparations are well under way for this year’s tree which hopefully will be installed sometime during the middle of November. Once again, I have received very much appreciated donations from the Aylesford family, Pat DeMulder and Pertemps which will cover the cost of the tree. Dovetail Group are donating their time and equipment to install the tree and lights and always do a fantastic job. Many thanks to them. As usual, you will have the opportunity to place a symbol of Thought at the base of the tree. Dedications for this should be made through the Meriden Tree of Thought website - www.meridentreeofthought.co.uk and not through the Xmas raffle. Also, donating through the website enables us to ensure sufficient funds for the continuation each year of the tree, as well as raising as much money as possible for the charities. Collection tins will once again be placed in pubs and shops around the village to help boost funds. Please support the tree. It is important to so many people that Alan’s legacy is continued each year.

Many thanks to Pat Smith for organising the Xmas raffle (see details below). Thank you.

Carol Todd and Cara Maclure (Trustees).

The Raffle - You can buy raffle tickets now by going to www.justgiving.com and searching for Meriden Tree of Thought.

The Christmas raffle site will then be shown and your donations will be converted to raffle tickets. The money raised through this will be going to Marie Curie Cancer Care. Tickets are £1 each or 5 for £4.

Please don’t forget to add Gift Aid and your name. There are currently over 50 great prizes and the raffle will be drawn on December 17th. Good Luck!

Meriden Flower Club We are a friendly club and welcome new members and visitors.

We are here to provide financial support to Local

The club meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Meriden Village Hall, Main Road Meriden CV7 7NG and hosts a wide range of both local and national demonstrators.

Raffle and sales table.

Spor ng & Leisure Groups via Small Grants

Doors open at 6.30pm for refreshments demonstration commences at 7.30pm For further information email: meridenflowerclub@hotmail.com New members and visitors are always welcome entry fees payable on the door.

Future Meetings: Monday 15th January - Practice Class Monday 19th February - AGM

Please see events page at the front of the Mag for detail of two special Christmas events

We aim to help local non-commercial groups by issuing small grants to be spent developing their spor ng, recrea onal and leisure projects past grants include:

Youth football Gardening groups Pre-school clubs Mar al Art Club Art and Cra ac vi es Model Making Senior ci zen ac vi es

So, if this is of interest to your local group, then please visit our website for further informa on and the applica on process www.meridensrt.org.uk

Christmas Donkey by Julie Hyde 1. Lightly draw the donkey, robin and holly.

2. Nose, eyes and outer ears Mix puddles of:x Burnt Umber (weak) x Burnt Umber (weak) x Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber (varying strengths) Wet the nose area and beyond into the face with clean water and a medium sized brush. Add the browns and greys, leaving some white areas.

Wet around the eyes and add and bit of Burnt Umber around the outside.

Wet the small area at the back of the ears and add a stronger Burnt Umber.

LET IT ALL DRY 3. Robin part 1 On to dry paper, add dashes of:x Cadmium red + Alizarin Crimson x Yellow Ochre 4. Holly. Wet one leaf at a time either side of the centre vein with a little:x Cadmium Yellow (weak) While this is still wet add stronger, darker greens. Use:x Intense Blue or Prussian Blue + Cadmium Yellow (green) x Intense Blue or Prussian Blue + a touch of Burnt Sienna (dark green) 5. Neck. Wet the neck long dashes of water in the direction of the fur and add:x Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber (varying strengths) x Ultramarine Blue + Alizarin Crimson x Burnt Umber 6. Ears. Repeat the dashes of water and adding colour on one ear at a time, but making the colours stronger than on the neck.

7. Face. Repeat the dashes of water and adding colour but make sure that it’s in the direction of the fur!

8. Robin 2. On to dry paper add the tail, wing and details with:x Burnt Umber x Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber

9. Add the donkey’s irises with a little:x Burnt Umber 10. Mane. Add long dashes of water in the direction of the mane and then add:x Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber (varying strengths) x Ultramarine Blue + Alizarin Crimson x Burnt Umber 11. Holly Berries. On to dry paper add:x Cadmium Red x Alizarin Crimson Leave a little light highlight towards the top of each berry.

12. Add the nostrils with strong:x Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber 13. Add the pupils and under the eyes with strong:x Ultramarine Blue + Burnt Umber (strong) MAKE SURE that you leave a little highlight in the eye.

14. Add whiskers and flick some colour on background.

Julie is running Art classes in Meriden Village Hall and on Zoom. For more information email :jph300@hotmail.com or phone 01676 523357

News from HS2 Railway Action Group A dose of realism at last! Young people should have partied the night away with the news they were no longer saddled with the monstrous debt from taking HS2 to Manchester. Even Euston is to be scaled back, and paid for by the proceeds of developing the requisitioned land.

Unfortunately, the scheme in our area is still proceeding, despite the demolition of the economic arguments and revelations about the silencing of whistle-blowers. We shouldn't forget the scheme was sold to the politicians by the industry lobby group Greengauge on the basis of a complete high-speed system from Heathrow to Scotland for £28 billion - and just £7 billion for London to Birmingham. The lovers of grandiose schemes made a lot of noise at the cancellation, but couldn't exactly put their finger on where the economic benefits were meant to come from. But there's bad news as well. Last quarter, it looked as if Solihull Planning Committee were prepared to make a stand over the design of the Balsall Common Viaduct. Few things are more conspicuous than a viaduct and this was recognised by the Parliamentary Select Committee who mandated "a truly consultative approach". The HS2 Act gave Solihull Council the power to demand modifications "to preserve the local amenity". When the viaduct design was first revealed in May last year, there was a strong negative reaction from our MP, local councillors, and local residents. A petition was presented to the Council. The HS2 Committee was told of the lack of consultation and the local opposition, in November 2022. The message wasn't passed on, so a direct question was put to the full Council at its meeting on 6th December, to find if there was a strategy to secure more attractive architectural options. The promised written response failed to materialise.

Despite all that, after 8 months and 2 meetings of the Planning Committee, the design was nodded through, just as it was, with the proviso that there should be consultation on "the tone of grey of the concrete". It's in no-one's interest to have a protracted delay and then approve the scheme anyway, while the HS2 mantra "never take advice" played out yet again.

The River Blythe Viaduct east of Hampton will be even longer and in a similar "gateway" location. It looks as if the design will be the same, except the noise barriers will be lower, as the countryside there is thought to be less sensitive to the noise blast from the trains. Good luck to any residents or councillors who think they can get something better than the over-bearing and downright ugly design imposed on Balsall Common. 99% of residents would be happy to accept decisions made professionally by well-informed officials and councillors, but the system just isn't working. Planning officers were given all the data on fully-effective designs of transparent noise barriers from Europe which would have been far less intrusive than concrete and these could be used on the Blythe viaduct.

Because it will actually be 19 plank bridges joined end to end, it will have 18 piers, rather than the 7 that would be needed with a continuous structure like that used in London's Colne Valley. The more concrete, the more profit for the builders, never mind what it looks like. It will certainly be iconic. Travellers heading toward Solihull on the Meriden Road won't get any false expectations.

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

News from HS2 Ltd and Partner Balfour Beaty Vinci (BBV) RIVER BLYTHE VIADUCT The River Blythe Viaduct will be a low-lying structure crossing the River Blythe and Meriden Road, designed to protect existing wetlands and habitats. The 475m long structure will be anchored to Diddington Lane Farm and Patrick Farm between Hampton-in-Arden and Meriden. We want the Viaduct to respect the local context, environment and social setting. We have worked hard to ensure that the viaduct’s construction is undertaken alongside the preservation and enhancement of the existing environment and we will be introducing a new wetland link from east to west under the viaduct. We are working hard to mitigate the impact of construction and operation on the local community. We will construct a new access route so that we can by-pass Meriden Road and reduce pressure on the local road network and will also include noise barriers on the viaduct, to mitigate noise for neighbours. We are looking forward to holding an event in early December to further engage with you about our plans for the viaduct and hear your opinions on our plans. We will be holding an event on Tuesday 5 December. From 12pm until 8pm, our team will be at the Fentham Hall, on Marsh Lane, Hampton-in-Arden.

It will be a chance to provide your views, talk to our experts about the design, landscaping, community amenities and more. You will also be able to see maps and plans of the viaduct, as well as ask questions and explore the proposals in detail.

Visit our web site, www.meridenrotary.org.uk for more information or contact Jane Maugham (Club Secretary) by telephoning / texting 07905 377515 or email her at mrcsecretary79@gmail.com.

Santa Fun Run Last year we held the Event at Packington Hall and it proved to be a wonderful loca on with lovely views across the snow sprinkled park which we shared with the deer.

We raised over £4000 for Chari es who in the current economic climate need all the support we can offer.

Lady Guernsey kicked the Event off and has kindly agreed that we can hold the event at the Park again this year.

We have set the date for Sunday 10th December at the usual me of 11.00am.

If you missed the event last year, make sure that you get the date in your diary for this year. If you are not a runner, you are most welcome to walk as many do.

We look forward to seeing you all for a truly fun event.

Note; full details will be available on Facebook and our website nearer the me. (www.meriden-santa-fun-run.org.uk)

Presidents Report This current Rotary year (July 2023-June 2024) so far has been one filled with excellent speakers. The speakers welcomed to date are the MP for Meriden, Saqib Bhatti, the new vicar in Meriden, Kevin Flannagan, Roger Clegg with an interesting subject "Elan Valley" and Director General Peter Homa CBE DMA who gave a superb address from Defence Medical Services.

In September, Maxine Courtney from DEBRA (support for a devastating skin disorder), gave an update on progress in medical advances and their fundraising activities. The Rotary Club of Meriden were able to donate £5000, raised by the efforts of members during last year for President Phil Hughes 2022-2023.

Our efforts will shortly be centred around the Santa Sleigh and the Santa Fun Run which are adequately covered in this issue.

Please see photograph on Village news page Malcolm Leonard, President 2023-24

Balsall Common Memories Cafe The Memories Cafe sessions are run, by a group of volunteers, for people with Dementia accompanied by a 'Carer', (e.g., Family member, friend or neighbour). They aim to provide the opportunity for socialisation whilst enjoying an activity, entertainment or just a drink and a chat. There is no charge for any of the sessions.

On the first Thursday of the month - between 11.00 and 12.30 in Balsall Common Library, Kenilworth Road CV7 7EL. The Coffee and Chat sessions take place. These sessions are very much a get together when we may exchange experiences, information, and generally have a good chat.

Every second Wednesday of each month from 1.15 -3.30 in Balsall Common Village Hall, Station Road CV7 7FF. The Memories Cafe meets. This is the session when we organise a programme of activities or entertainment and enjoy our cups of tea or coffee and cakes. Recently we have enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant, a visit from five pets as therapy dogs and their owners, a relaxing session flower arranging and an afternoon exploring memory boxes together with a sing along. Our programme of afternoon activities for 2024 is currently being planned

Dates for your diary Coffee and Chat - Balsall Common Library 11.00-12.30 pm

Memories Cafe - Balsall Common Village Hall 1.15-3.30pm

Thursday 7th December DATES for 2024 Thursday 4th January Thursday 1st February Thursday 7th March Thursday 4th April

Wednesday 13th December - Christmas celebration DATES FOR 2024 Wednesday 10th January - Earlsdon Allotment Foxes Wednesday 7th February - Chair exercise Wednesday 13th March - Air Clay Activity Wednesday 10th April - Exercise Fun

If you would like to join us at any of our sessions, or have any suggestions for activities or entertainers, we are always happy to hear from you, and welcome offers of help or ideas for fundraising.

Contact Christine 07974 140353 if you would like to get involved.

Message from Saqib Bhatti MP As we head towards winter, I want to take this opportunity to update you on some local and national news. Earlier this month the Prime Minister announced the extension of the Government’s £2 bus fare cap to 31st December 2024. This cap will cover local bus routes, including the X1, 82, and 232. In Meriden and the surrounding communities, buses are one of the most relied-upon forms of transport.

Consequently, ensuring that bus travel remains affordable and accessible to everyone in our community is of the utmost importance. Bus usage after the pandemic has been in decline and has negatively affected the bus network, which is why I am pleased that the government has committed £300 million to the long-term recovery of the bus sector. In addition, there has been a new deployment of zero-emission buses, which I hope will become the standard within our region. I will continue to lobby the government and work with the Mayor of the West Midlands to make sure our bus networks are sustainable, accessible, and affordable.

As you know the protection of our precious greenbelt is one of my main priorities, I will always stand with the residents of Berkswell and Balsall Common to protect our greenbelt land and to preserve our environment. I am pleased to have met with Berkswell and Balsall Common parish councillors and have joined them in objecting to green belt developments that are not in keeping with the surrounding area. As part of the meeting, I also discussed the need for a bypass to lessen the traffic through the city centre. I am committed to working with Berkswell and Balsall Common parish councils, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, and the Mayor of the West Midlands, to ensure that this project is successful.

It was recently announced by the Secretary of State for Transport, that after engaging and listening to accessibility groups, passengers and parliamentarians, the government has asked train operators to reverse their decision to close ticket offices at train stations. I know this was an issue that was of great importance to many of my constituents and I hope that this decision will now reassure them that our train network will continue to serve as many passengers as possible.

Finally, as we enter the winter period, I would like to wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Please note my office remains open as usual and we are conducting surgery appointments, so do not hesitate to book a slot. My contact details are below: Best wishes and stay safe Saqib Bhatti MBE MP

My contact details are: saqib.bhatti@parliament.uk 0207 219 3423

Oak View Logs Established providers of premium kiln dried firewood within the local North Warwickshire area.

Our logs are a bespoke blend of hardwoods, cut to an approximate size of either 8" or 10", ideal for home burning.

We deliver locally FREE of charge or to other areas for a small delivery charge.

Bulk bags, loose tipped loads and kindling available.

Call 07758 128 031

Visit - www.oakviewlogs.co.uk

Finally the fourth ape! He is the sum of the first three: He sees nobody, hears nobody and speaks to nobody.

IN NEED OF CARE IN YOUR HOME OR A MOVE INTO A CARE HOME THIS WINTER? LET US HELP YOU UNRAVEL THE MYSTERIES OF THE CARE SYSTEM TO YOUR ADVANTAGE.

Worried when reading the horror stories surrounding the care sector with its lack of funding, inadequate care packages and care homes and just hoping you never have to face this dilemma? Well, we here at Senior Care Support Services, understand those concerns. As experienced, senior care specialists, our knowledge of how to fund your care, what benefits you may be entitled to, and the difference between a poor and good care home or care agency can be invaluable to you. We can cut through the bureaucracy and the timeconsuming hours you spend on the telephone trying to source good and appropriate care. THERE IS EXCELLENT CARE OUT THERE IF YOU KNOW WHERE TO FIND IT. Why not have an initial, confidential, chat to see whether we can be of help to you, and take a look at our website for further information. www.seniorcaresupport.co.uk Tel. Geraldine Davies on 01564 743067 or email info@ seniorcaresupport.co.uk

Christmas Gift Gift Vouchers Vouchers available available ** ** ** Christmas

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

DAY DAY / DATE / DATE Every Every Monday Monday Every Every Monday Monday Every Every Monday Monday Every Every Monday Monday Every Every Monday Monday

EVENT EVENT

VENUE VENUE

TIME TIME

CONTACT CONTACT

Village Village HallHall

9:30-10:30am 9:30-10:30am

Jacqui Jacqui Fisher Fisher 07703 07703 345210 345210

Scout Scout HutHut

6:30-7:30pm 6:30-7:30pm

Eleanor Eleanor Willis Willis 07762 07762 823050 823050

Explorer Explorer Scouts Scouts (male (male andand female female 14-18) 14-18) Scout Scout HutHut

7:45-9:45pm 7:45-9:45pm

Mark Mark Jones Jones 07801 07801 773352 773352

TaiTai ChiChi Beaver Beaver Scouts Scouts (boys (boys andand girls girls aged aged 6-8) 6-8)

Orme Orme School School dance dance class class

Methodist Methodist Church Church 5.005.008.00pm 8.00pm HallHall

02476 02476 467331 467331

Stories Stories andand Painting Painting forfor children children

Meriden Meriden Library Library

2:15-3pm 2:15-3pm

01676 01676 522717 522717

Village Village HallHall

7pm 7pm

Della Della Mannix Mannix 07920 07920 014909 014909

Sports Sports Pavilion Pavilion

7:30 7:30 pmpm

07767 07767 162423 162423

1st1st Monday Monday of the of the W.I. W.I. month month Parish Parish Council Council – Finance, – Finance, Governance Governance && nd Mondays 2nd2Mondays personnel personnel meeting meeting 3rd3rd Mondays Mondays

Flower Flower Club Club

Village Village HallHall

7:30-9:30pm 7:30-9:30pm

meridenflowerclub@hotmail.com meridenflowerclub@hotmail.com

3rd3rd Mondays Mondays

Parish Parish Council Council - Full - Full Meeting Meeting IT Skills IT Skills Training Training

Sports Sports Pavilion Pavilion

7:30 7:30 pmpm

07767 07767 162423 162423

Meriden Meriden Library Library

10-11am 10-11am

01676 01676 522717 522717

Sports Sports Pavilion Pavilion

10:30am-1pm 10:30am-1pm

01789 01789 777986 777986

Scout Scout HutHut

7-9pm 7-9pm

Mark Mark Jones Jones 07801 07801 773352 773352

7pm 7pm

www.meridenrotary.org.uk www.meridenrotary.org.uk

Every Every Tuesday Tuesday Every Every Tuesday Tuesday Every Every Tuesday Tuesday

Warm Warm Hub Hub Scouts Scouts (boys (boys andand girls girls aged aged 10.5-14) 10.5-14)

Every Every Tuesday Tuesday

Rotary Rotary Club Club Meeting Meeting

Every Every Wed Wed (in(in term term time) time)

Playgroup Playgroup

Every Every Wednesday Wednesday

ArtArt Class Class

Manor Manor Hotel Hotel

Methodist Methodist Church Church 9:30-11:30am 9:30-11:30am HallHall Morning Morning andand Village Village HallHall afternoon afternoon callcall Peter Peter forfor venue venue & time & time

Julie Julie Hyde Hyde 523357 523357

nd Wednesdays 2nd2Wednesdays

Readers' Readers' Circle Circle

Every Every Wednesday Wednesday

Craft Craft andand Chat Chat

Sports Sports Pavilion Pavilion

ArtArt Class Class

Zoom Zoom (online) (online)

IT Skills IT Skills Training Training

Meriden Meriden Library Library

10-11am 10-11am

01676 01676 522717 522717

Craft Craft andand Chat Chat

Sports Sports Pavilion Pavilion

12:30-3pm 12:30-3pm

Debbie Debbie Barber Barber 07455 07455 829340 829340

Dancersise Dancersise & Pilates & Pilates

Village Village HallHall

6pm 6pm & 7pm & 7pm

Candy Candy 07828 07828 709650 709650

Scout Scout HutHut

6:45-8.15pm 6:45-8.15pm

Lynda Lynda Spratt Spratt 07790 07790 348726 348726

Parish Parish Council Council - Planning, - Planning, Transport, Transport, Environment Environment & Climate & Climate Change Change meting meting

Sports Sports Pavilion Pavilion

7:30 7:30 pmpm

07767 07767 162423 162423

Firebird Firebird Singers Singers

Village Village HallHall

7-9pm 7-9pm

Valerie Valerie Martin Martin 01676 01676 522522 963963

AllAll Together Together Café Café

Sports Sports Pavilion Pavilion

2-4pm 2-4pm

Joan Joan Russell Russell 01676 01676 522666 522666

Village Village Hall Hall

2-4pm 2-4pm

Joan Joan Russell Russell 01676 01676 522666 522666

Every Every Thursday Thursday Every Every Thursday Thursday Every Every Thursday Thursday Every Every Thursday Thursday Every Every Thursday Thursday st 1st 1Thursdays Thursdays

Every Every Friday Friday 2nd2nd Fridays Fridays

CubCub Scouts Scouts (boys (boys & girls & girls aged aged 8-10.5) 8-10.5)

4th4th Fridays Fridays (except (except DecDec onon 15th15 ) th) CAMEO CAMEO

7-9pm 7-9pm

morning morning

Peter Peter Moss Moss 01676 01676 523590 523590 Debbie Debbie Barber Barber 07455 07455 829340 829340 Julie Julie Hyde Hyde 01676 01676 523357 523357

nd December 2nd2December

Flower Flower Club Club Christmas Christmas Fayre Fayre

Village Village HallHall

11.0011.002.00pm 2.00pm

th 9th 9December December

Cancer Cancer Research Research Christmas Christmas Party Party

H of H Eofclub E club

7.30pm 7.30pm

th December 10th10December

Firebird Firebird Singers Singers Concert Concert

Manor Manor Hotel Hotel

2.30 2.30 & 7.30pm & 7.30pm

Valerie Valerie Martin Martin 01676 01676 522963 522963

th December 11th11December

Flower Flower Club Club Christmas Christmas Event Event

Village Village HallHall

6.30pm 6.30pm

GailGail Todd Todd 07845 07845 791345 791345

Village Village

5.45 5.45 - 8.00pm - 8.00pm

Geoff Geoff Arthur Arthur

th 14th14 / th15 / th15December December Rotary Rotary Santa Santa Sleigh Sleigh Visits Visits

Carole Carole 01676 01676 522888 522888

th December 16th16December

Carols Carols onon thethe Green Green

Village Village Green Green

5 pm 5 pm

th 18th18December December

Christmas Christmas Storytime Storytime

Meriden Meriden Library Library

2:15-3pm 2:15-3pm

01676 01676 522717 522717

Film Film Shows Shows

Village Village HallHall

7.30pm 7.30pm

Chris Chris Copper Copper 01676 01676 522645 522645

th th 20th20Jan, Jan, 17th17Feb, Feb, th March 16th16March

Out and About this Winter

Ice Skate Birmingham offers the ultimate skating experience for all ages. Located in Centenary Square, Birmingham until 7th January. Open daily 10am till 10pm.

Tickets available online www.iceskatebirmingham.co.uk

Santa Trains depart from Kidderminster for an exciting panto show at Arley every weekend until Xmas Eve. Experience a magical steam train journey to see our all-new panto, as Jingle and Jangle join Santa for some festive fun.

The experience includes a present and free 2024 return ticket for each child, plus reserved seating for the whole family. Book tickets at svr.co.uk/christmas

School Fundraising

Welcome Our New Head Boy and Girl We have had such a fantastic start to this school year, lots of things have happened already.

We welcome the start of a new school year with our new head girl, Anika, and head boy Logan.

Supported by deputy head boy and girl Leo and Aleshia, we are really proud of them and know that they will be wonderful ambassadors for the school.

Each year our school supports a charity and in September each class gave suggestions as to which this could be and then the school council voted to make the final decision. It was decided that Guide Dogs would be our charity of 2023/24. We look forward to working with them this year and hopefully raising lots of money for a fabulous cause! Our charity of 2022/23 was Birmingham Children’s Hospital - £886 was raised, which was absolutely amazing. Will from the Hospital came to the school to collect the cheque and talked to the children about their fundraising aims.

Alongside our agreed charity, we also fundraise to help our children get things that can’t be purchased through our school budget, due to very tight funds. This year our school will also be fundraising for a new sound system for the school hall.

We are very lucky that some local businesses already support our school. If you know a company who would also be able to help out, please let us know!

office@meriden.solihull.sch.uk Lunchtime Supervisor Vacancy Monday to Friday 11:50am – 1:20pm

We are looking for a Lunchtime Supervisor to join the team at our happy, caring school and to help ensure that our children make excellent progress. We can offer an atmosphere of lifelong learning, a supportive and developmental team and the opportunity to make a difference to the lives of our fantastic children, in our unique environment and setting.

Responsibilities include:

Supervising children Dealing with minor first aid issues Managing behaviour in line with school policy Providing a range of activities both inside and outside Maintaining a positive atmosphere

Contact office@meriden.solihull.sch.uk or call 01676 522488 for details and an application pack. CVs are not accepted.

Visits and Experiences Although we have only been back to school a few weeks, the children have had an amazing time already!

Year 4 have visited Lunt Fort, and over November and December, the children will be visiting the Sea Life Centre, Creswell Crags, Coventry Cathedral, the safari park and the National Space Centre. In addition, Year 3 will be conducting an archaeological dig and we are having a fantastic STEM week! The children love having the extra experiences that really bring the curriculum to life and we love that these adventures also strengthen our vision for lifelong learning as they build key life skills.

Harvest Celebrations On Thursday 19th October, the Year 2, 3, 4, and 5 children took part in 'Experience Harvest', an interactive workshop that explores different aspects of harvest. We were very lucky to be joined by volunteers from St. Laurence's Church (and a few willing parents) to run this session. Althea, in Year 4, said, "It was great fun and we got to learn about all the different things that people do for Harvest." The children reflected on the fact that lots of people around the world do not have enough to eat, and that we are very lucky to have enough food.

This week, we have also held our Harvest assembly. Year 5 led the school in poems, prayers and reflection and everyone sang their hearts out. Well done to the pupils in Year 5 for doing such a fantastic job of leading the service. We also thanked Reverend Kevin and his wife Jayne for taking part in the service.

Harvest is also a time to remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves, and we were pleased to receive donations of food and other goods, which will be donated to Helping Hands. Thank you to everyone for your support.

Lunt Fort Trip

On Tuesday 3rd October, year 4 went to Lunt Roman Fort. They learned how to march like a Roman soldier (shouting "sin, dex, sin, dex"), learned about life at the fort, Roman weapons and armour, and got to take part in Roman battle training and battle games. It was a brilliant trip - the children gave it 'full marks'!

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Last LastPosting PostingDates Datesfor forChristmas Christmas As Assupplied suppliedby bythe theRoyal RoyalMail:Mail:22ndndClass Classand and22ndndClass Classsigned signedfor for Monday Monday18th 18thDecember December 11ststClass Classand and11ststClass Classsigned signedfor for thth December Wednesday 20 Wednesday 20 December Royal RoyalMail MailSpecial Special delivery deliveryguaranteed guaranteed Thursday Thursday21 21ststDecember December Parcelforce ParcelforceWorldwide Worldwide express express48 48and andexpress express 48 48large largeWed Wed20th 20th December December Parcelforce ParcelforceWorldwide Worldwide express express24 24Thursday Thursday21 21stst December December

Meriden MeridenPost PostOffice Officeopening opening hours hours Monday Mondayto toFriday Friday10.30 10.30--3.30 3.30 Saturday Saturday9.30 9.30––12 12noon noon Closed ClosedSundays Sundays Sue SueHarper Harper01676 01676522230 522230

Deadline for the Spring 2024 issue out by the beginning of March is 1st February 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

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