MeridenMag Spring 2009

Meriden Mag Spring 2009 In this issue

An update on the playing fields development Village Appraisal latest news James and Clare with the Mayor of Solihull Councillor David Bell

On 26th January, Rosie Weaver, Chair of Meriden Parish Council and Iain Roxburgh, Chair of the Meriden Parish Appraisal Steering Group made a presentation of the results of the Parish Household Survey Questionnaire.

The Mayor of Solihull Councillor David Bell hosted the event at Solihull Civic Centre. The Head Boy and Head Girl of Meriden Primary School who both spoke about ideas the children had for addressing some of the issues identified in the Appraisal ably assisted Rosie and Iain. The Mayor thanked them personally at the end of the meeting.

Methodist nursery School saved from closure free trial places available

Children at Meriden School Reception class celebrating Chinese New Year

1st Meriden Scout Group News from the Green Hut All 3 sections have been raising much needed funds. Back in December we spent an evening carol singing in the Bulls Head, held a bottle tombola and chocolate raffle at the Christmas table top sale at the Methodist Church Hall and we had a chocolate fountain at the School Christmas Fayre.

The leaders and children would like to thank all those that have supported us and given their time and money so generously.

In November the Cubs and Scouts held an activity day at Broadwater on the Packington Estate. The children took part in rock climbing, abseiling, shooting, the assault course and crate stacking. The new Scout Leader, Russell and the Scouts moving up from Cubs were invested – all making their promise whilst negotiating the climbing wall. For some of the younger members it was their first attempt at these activities and despite being nervous they all had a go and gained a huge amount of confidence to have a second go. Everyone had a great day and we are now looking forward to our upcoming weekend away there.

Crate stacking at Broadwater

WE NEED YOU!!

The Scout Group has continued to grow over the past year and at the end of last year the Scout section restarted. We are now in urgent need of adult helpers – in particular another Leader for the Scout section. If you are over 18 and can assist Russell in developing and providing a wide range of activities for young people please contact Gerry (522666).

BEAVERS: We meet on a Monday 6.30pm – 7.30pm for 6 to 8 year olds. Please contact Jo (522625) or Gaynor (523191) for details.

CUBS: We meet on a Tuesday 6.30pm – 8pm for 8-10 ½ year olds. Please contact Lis (521080) or Liz (523674) for details.

SCOUTS: We meet on a Thursday 7pm – 8.30pm for 10 and half to 14 year olds. Please contact Russell (523823) for details.

Abseiling at Broadwater

A big thank you to everyone who left their Christmas cards out for collection. We collected two bootfuls altogether which were given in aid of The Woodland Trust.

We have a busy term ahead. We are currently organising our Thinking Day celebrations, an event which takes place every year for Brownies all over the world. Australia is our chosen country for this year and amongst other activities we will be holding our very own 'bush tucker trial'!

Five new Brownies have just been enrolled. We do have a waiting list but if your daughter would like to join, please contact us on the numbers below.

Brownies is for girls aged between 7 - 10. We meet every Wednesday 6.15 - 7.45 pm at Meriden Methodist Hall during term time only.

Tracy has left us due to work and family commitments. We all miss her and thank her for her contribution over the past 5 years.

Jane 01676 542501 Sharon 01676 522591

Hello from Meriden School! As I write, winter definitely still has us in its grip and the snow is falling but we are looking forward to the spring events coming to school!

Village Appraisal Plan I was pleased to take the Head Boy and Girl with me to meet the Mayor of Solihull on January 26th. We were invited by the Village Appraisal Group to help them explain Meriden’s needs to Councillors. Many people complimented the children on their contributions and I was very proud of them!

Big Writing Every year we have a School Improvement Plan. This year one part of our plan is to develop the children’s writing, and our Friday now is called ‘Big Writing’ day. It is really exciting to see how positively the children have responded to the challenge, and I look forward to including some examples of their writing in the next edition of the Mag. Inspire Workshops We have been running workshops for parents and children to work together for three years now. They are always popular- and they help us show parents what their child is doing in certain subjects. For instance, Year 5 recently held a rainforest related workshop showing how we are linking Literacy, Geography and ICT. Some of the poetry produced jointly is elsewhere in the Mag. Building plans We are always trying to ensure we can improve provision for the educational needs of the children here. A wonderful new development will be added to our facilities soon - another new classroom, so that we can create a proper library and music room within school. Once again, this is being largely provided for by grant to the school.

We are also helping the outdoor provision for the Foundation Stage children, by building a canopy so that they can have some cover when they are learning outside.

We are putting a secure bike and scooter shelter in the playground to help encourage children to be active when they come to school. This is why we are moving the Cycling Proficiency training to Year 5 to enable more children to ride safely to school.

TLA Centre Although this is related to training our teachers, it is worth Meriden knowing that our school is the first in Solihull to be recognised as a full ‘Teacher Learning Academy’ Centre- meaning that we are fully committed to developing the teachers’ skills and knowledge. A number of staff have already worked hard taking part in the TLA- congratulations to them!

Staffing Members of staff have also been adding to their families- welcome to Baby Street and Baby Leadbetter!

Spring events The usual full programme is planned with a range of visits and visitors; Charity Week will be raising money for Christian Aid this year; and the Easter Service will be on Friday 3rd April at 9.10 am. I hope you will join us if you would like to attend.

As always, may I wish you all the best from Meriden School, Kind regards Jacky Smith, Headteacher, Meriden CE Primary School Reception children celebrating the Chinese New

Year. They made music, ate Chinese food, dressed up as a dragon and painted Chinese symbols.

Table Top Sale Marlene, Grace and Lucy wish to thank all those who supported the Christmas Table Top sale held on November 29th 2008, in aid of St Laurence Church Roof Restoration. The event raised £693.00; the Meriden Methodist Nursery received 50% from admission and Table Top Hire fees.

Operation Samaritan’s Purse St Laurence’s Church sent 63 boxes and £120 to the above appeal. We would like to thank the members of the Methodist Church, the library staff and villagers who so kindly supported this good cause.

Grace and Lucy Ball

ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS Rector Rev Michael Dawkins Tel 01676 522 719 The Rectory The Green Meriden CV7 7LN Church Wardens Marian Theobald Linda Barnett

Tel 01676 523 475 Tel 01676 523 277

I received an email entitled ‘Nigerian Brothels’. For a moment I felt panic. I didn’t want anything pornographic on my computer. But then I noticed it was from a church I knew. I opened the email and read it. I didn’t know the particular ministry or lady writing but I was struck by the Bible verse she had used when asked, quite recently and unexpectedly, to speak to thirty young prostitutes. She was aware of the abuse the girls had suffered as children and were now suffering every day in the brothel, treated as cheap products to be bought, sold, damaged and discarded.

‘You are bought with a price’ (didn’t they know it) she said and nobody else can buy you. But this was something different. No controlling woman or abusive man can buy you. (This is what Paul and Peter had said to the slaves of the first century.) You have been bought already, not with the wretched clinking of coins passing hands, but with a love so great it gave its life for you. The story of Jesus was unpacked for the girls and the love of God reached into their obliterated selves. The brothel and prostitution were not cleaned up but Jesus was there (how offensive to our self-righteous or doubting selves). Their personal experience proved it.

The ministry in Nigeria is struggling with rehabilitation work but Jesus gets it right before we do! I think that is wonderful for each one of us.

Let’s hope the Easter services tell it again! ‘The old, old story of Jesus and His love’ as the hymn puts it. I am not sure if I will be in church or in Meriden. I will be an old age pensioner by then and should have retired, but we have been offered another grant, this time to restore the tower. Isn’t that wonderful? I wanted to do that a quarter of a century ago. Admittedly we have to raise another big chunk of money but we have just (I think) settled our debts for the rebuilding of St. Laurence’s roof, and those of us close to that project feel it has been miraculous. Wonderful to say that in a doubting and atheistic age. God is! Therefore we keep going.

But when others have tears …..

A prayer for the recession: God, You don’t seem to be there when everything is going wrong. A man has just killed himself and his whole family because he lost his job. Men and women are in frightening and dangerous despair.

Reach into their hearts even if the connection, like an internet connection, with You is very, very weak. Give them the first clues how to manage, how to get through the day, how to see a glimmer of hope, the next step. Help them to support each other, even with exhausted love. Help the public figures trying to sort things out and ordinary people defying the wickedness that has got away with so much. Teach us to test our hearts and come in line with the One who is closer than we think and in whose name we pray, Amen.

Michael Dawkins Don & Olive Neal Don and Olive Neal moved to Meriden from Birmingham in the late 1950’s. They lived in The Woodyard Cottages with their daughter Jane. Along with other residents they fought to keep their homes from demolition in 1962, without success and moved into 91 Alspath Road when it was first built. Olive managed the Triumph Bar at the Manor hotel for many years until her retirement and Don was an industrial photographer with Land Rover until he retired.

They moved up to Scotland in August this year to be near Jane, but sadly Don died on August 31st, shortly after moving into their new home, but at least he saw Olive settled. They are sadly missed by those who knew them in the village. Our best wishes go to Olive in her new home.

Shirley Goodsir

The main services for St Laurence continue to be jointly shared with the Methodist Church except for the Good Friday one hour devotion service on April 10th which will take place at St Laurence Church at 12 noon

A Variety Show will be held on Saturday May 2nd at 7.00pm in the Methodist Church Hall.

In aid of funds for the ongoing restoration work on St. Laurence Church Marion Theobald

Editor’s note: Woodyard Cottages were in Maxstoke Lane opposite the Firs.

Look out for local posters in April

First – class care for your car is closer than you think!…

For MOT, service, tyres & exhausts call:

ACE GARAGE RADFORD 024 7659 7879 KENSINGTON GARAGE EARLSDON 024 7667 0054 Courtesy car, collection & delivery options call Brendan McManus direct on: 07958 518924

PHYSIO MATTERS PHYSIOTHERAPHY ACUPUNCTURE KIRAN SHARMA MCSP, SRP CHARTERED AND STATE REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST A wide variety of techniques are used to treat Back and neck pain Sciatica Muscle sprains and strains arthritis Headaches

Sports injuries Frozen Shoulder Rehabilitation after surgery and stroke Respiratory stress etc

S

We service, repair and care for your vehicle

Now Offering Sports Therapy and Remedial Massage Registered with all major insurance companies

Clinic No: 01676 533106 Fax No 01676 532106

Meriden Village Hall is available for private parties etc. Rates are £10 per hour Contact Valerie Martin 01676 522963

Now Open Saturday mornings 8.30am- 12.30pm Physiomatters.1@btconnect.com www.physiomatters.com NOW AT OUR NEW ADDRESS

3 Gipsy Lane Balsall Common CV7 7FW

Berkswell and District History Group Meetings are held in Berkswell Reading Room at 8.00pm unless otherwise stated.

Thursday March 12th 2.30pm in the Village Hall Balsall Common “Wroxall Abbey” by Beryl Ellerslie Wednesday April 8th “Lost and Deserted Villages”with Ted Walmsley Tuesday June 9th Visit to Black Country Museum Visitors are most welcome at all open meetings.

Admission to meetings, including refreshments, £2.50 non-members; £1.50 members.

Annual membership £5

For our latest news visit the website: www.berkswell-history.org Telephone 01676 535782 or 532645

In Meriden Minister: Rev Andrew Charlesworth BSc BA Tel: 01676 533737 - Phone to arrange marriages, baptisms and funerals Services: Sunday 10:30am (Junior Church and crèche for children) Sunday evening 6:30pm (3rd Sunday in month only)

Peggy Patrick: 1936-2008.

Many gathered from Meriden and further afield to say farewell to Peggy, who passed away so suddenly before Christmas. Peggy, together with her late husband John, had been a huge part of the life of the village and she will be greatly missed.

She had played a huge part in the life of the Methodist Church and had touched the lives of many young people through Sunday School and Youth Club. In later years, she played a big role in the CAMEO group that meets at the Community Centre. Every year she would almost single handedly organise the Kinwalsey Tree Service, part of the Meriden Festival.

Although she worked tirelessly on behalf of the Church and village for so many years, Peggy will be missed, more than anything, for the person that she was. She was an incredibly warm and caring person, who had the knack of lifting spirits when they were low. It was said at her funeral that she was the kind of Christian that we all aspire to be. Her life was full of Christian joy.

Now happiness is a big part of modern life. If we were sat on a nice sunny beach somewhere with an ice cream in one hand and a good book in the other, we might say that this was a happy day. But if the sun went behind a cloud and the ice cream fell onto the pages of the book, we might decide it was not so good after all.

But this is not the happiness that the Bible wants us to know. The Bible uses a particular word for happiness. In Greek the word used is makarios. This is a happiness, which goes beyond our circumstances and is a deep rooted sense of joy.

The happiness that God wants us to know is contentment whether the sun is shining or not. Somewhere along the line, the Church got itself a reputation of being stern and not full of joy at all. But nothing could be further from the truth. If you look up the fruit of the spirit in Ephesians, there is joy sat right after love in the list of Christian virtues. Christians should be full of joy and bring joy to others.

But the road to this joy is not through good circumstances. Over the next couple of months, the Church will build up towards the season of Easter. It is through the death and resurrection of Jesus that we discover the road to happiness. The way of the cross is a road of self-sacrifice, of putting God’s interests before our own. It is in this sacrifice that the miracle of a new life becomes possible and the joy of that first Easter Sunday can become a daily part of our lives.

This was something Peggy had experienced for herself and it is something I hope we can all know in our lives.

Love, peace and joy, Andrew.

Dates for your Diary Friday 6th March Women’s World Day of Prayer 2.00pm Speaker Lyn Hunt from the Meriden Christian Fellowship Sunday 22nd March Mothering Sunday Family Worship 10.30 am Sunday 5th April Palm Sunday 10.30am Thursday 9th April Maundy Thursday Service 6.00pm Friday 10th April Good Friday Devotion at St Laurence Church 12noon Sunday 12th April Easter Day Holy Communion Service 10.30 am. Preacher Rev Alan Burke Wednesday 15th April Supper Club 7.00pm Cost £ 4.50 numbers please to Maureen Gabbitas 522148

The Background to the Cyclist’s Memorial Service, held every year on the Green in Meriden CYCLISTS’ WAR MEMORIAL ‘TO THE LASTING MEMORY OF THOSE CYCLISTS WHO DIED IN THE GREAT WAR 1914 – 1918’ is the inscription on the memorial.

After an idea by the late Mr. ‘Biddy’ Bidlake, an executive committee was formed in 1919, and in less that a year £1,200 was raised from cyclists and cycling organizations throughout Britain.

The obelisk was built on a concrete base with a concrete column; the column is thirty feet high and is faced with Cornish granite On May 21st 1921 in the radiance of the lowering sun at six o’clock before an estimated assembly of 20,000 cyclists, Lord Birkenhead, the Lord Chancellor unveiled the memorial. The keynote of the whole memorial service was to be simplicity and strength without ornament and this is still the tone today.

The Green was packed as far as the eye could see, the throng overflowed on both sides of the highway, all traffic ceased. The visiting cyclists had parked their machines in adjacent meadows. Buglers sounded the last post. After the commemoration service the Reverend R.J. Bouchier, who had been a most generous patron of the memorial fund read a simple dedicatory prayer. Following the dedicatory prayer the school children led the singing of the Doxology to the tune of the Old Hundredth. The pronunciation of the Benediction concluded the official service. What followed was an informal wreath laying at the foot of the memorial by representatives of the various clubs and organizations including the CTC, NCU and the many district associations of the CTC. Amongst the wreaths was a touching floral dedication made up from the racing wheel from the cycle of an unnamed hero fallen during the Great War. A service has been held every year since the unveiling, with the highest attendance in the 1920’s and 1930’s.

On the 14th June 1923 His royal highness, The Prince of Wales visited the Memorial whilst on his way to Coventry.

It is worth noting that the Memorial service at Meriden is still one of the largest gatherings of cyclists in the country.

Attenborrow Roofing

Registered with Solihull & Birmingham Age Concern Solihull Trading Standards (Ship Shape) All Roofing Work Felt, Tile or Slates Canopies PVCU Fascia & Guttering Small Building Work – Walls etc

Contact

Robert Attenborrow 0800 073 0294 mobile 0788 065 7381 www.attenborrow.co.uk Local recommendations available All insurance work undertaken

In 1963 a bronze plaque was added to the memorial to commemorate all the cyclists who died during World War II. Now in later years the service has been modified to commemorate all cyclists killed in active service for their country.

This year’s service will be held on Sunday 17th May at 11.00am on the Green

The Centre Charity Shop 01676 523050 Happy New Year, Well I can’t believe we’re already nearly into February (and when this edition comes out we will be there). .

Firstly as usual I would like to give thanks to our hardworking staff without their dedication the centre wouldn’t run so efficiently.

Isn’t it great that the scaffolding is finally down next door – a lovely new building in its stead!!

Thinking ahead to the Meriden Festival, due to the poor turn out of stalls last year we have decided to make a couple of changes this year for the Centre Celebration. Firstly there will be a £10 holding deposit required for each stall, which will be refunded on the day if they turn up. If there is not enough support shown by the 13th April we will cancel this event from the Meriden Festival calendar. If however bookings are looking healthy then steps are being taken to try and alleviate the parking problems encountered on the green last year and the Centre Celebration will go ahead on the 13th June. If you are interested in having a stall then please contact Kevin Hunt on 01676 523050.

At the moment of writing this article we are still awaiting news on the funding we’ve applied for, for the youth work in Meriden so keep looking out in the Centre Charity shop window for details of times/dates etc.

Thank you very much for the donations of black refuse sacks they have been much appreciated.

Small furniture is very popular so we are using up some of the space in the tearoom as an overspill so if you have any items of small furniture you would like to donate we can fit in a few more items. If you’re not sure if we can fit in your items you can always telephone first and we can let you know if we have any space or not.

Also Lego bricks seem to be making a comeback at least three people have asked if we have any, so if you have some and would like to donate it we would be very grateful.

Thank you that most of the donations of clothing are washed, as we don’t have any drying facilities in this weather and due to the huge volume of donations it would be impossible to launder them off site.

We have had a few new people visit us in the past couple of weeks who have never been inside the shop before so if you’ve never been in pop in and meet us. You don’t have to buy anything you can just come in for a chat, or a browse around.

Since the last publication we have given donations to Meriden School, The Methodist Nursery and the Meriden Scout Group but as mentioned in previous editions if you know of a local charity that would benefit from a small donation then just put the details on a piece of paper with a contact name and number and pop it through the Charity Shop door.

Hope to see you soon. Kevin and Lyn Hunt I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your Saints (Psalm 52 v 9)

PHYSIOTHERAPY REFLEXOLOGY COMPLEMETARY THERAPIES Treatment for pain, stress, acute and chronic conditions

Alison Stain M.C.S.P., S.R.P., I.T.E.C. The Therapy Centre, Balsall Villa 287 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common

Tel: 01676 521066

Over 50s can get fit as a fiddle at Age Concern Solihull Solihull residents are now getting fit by taking part in a range of new activities including Extend classes at Meriden Village Hall; badminton at Hockley Heath and Balsall Common; a Craft Group meeting in Solihull Library Café … all designed to promote active lifestyles amongst the over-50s.

Come and join us at Meriden Village Hall, Main Road, Meriden, Extend is gentle exercise for the over 50s which includes seated and standing movements all done to popular and traditional music. The group meets fortnightly on Wednesdays 1.30pm – 2.30pm. March dates are 4th and 18th. with further dates to follow … time for a chat and a cuppa afterwards. Cost is £1.50 per session.

Fit as a Fiddle is a major programme funded by the Big Lottery Fund and launched by Age Concern to help older people all over England to live more healthy, active and fulfilling lives.

Thanks to a £15 million grant from the Big Lottery Fund, Age Concern has developed the fit as a fiddle programme with a coalition of national partners to meet the demands of demographic changes and increased life expectancy. Older people find it particularly hard to access suitable activities in their communities, and few take sufficient exercise to meet the international guidelines of half an hour’s exercise of ‘moderate intensity’ on at least 5 days per week.

For more information about the classes or on becoming a Fit as a Fiddle volunteer call Tracy Curtis, Fit as a Fiddle Project Co-ordinator The Priory, Church Hill Road, Solihull, B91 3LF Tel: 0121 705 9128, email: tcurtis@acsolihull.org

Queens Head Old Road Meriden Monday night is music night come along and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx March 2nd March 9th March 16th March 23rd March 30th

Stevie Best Nicki Andy Marlow Mel Day Steve Usher

April 6th April 13th April 20th April 27th

Julie Christie The Players Linc Jakki

May 4th May 11th May 18th May 25th

Terry Fox Guy Surtees Keith Brett TBA

MERIDEN Meriden C of E Primary School, Fillongley Road, Wednesday 6.30 – 8.00pm Classes also available in Solihull

Call Sandra or Jenny on 0121 705 7078 www.rosemaryconley.com Class Fee - £5.35 Membership Fee - £10 Trialists lost on average 7.25lbs in two weeks.

Pop in for good food and good company 01676 522256 for further information

free membership**worth £10 plus free portion pots worth £4.99 when you pay for six weeks

New Traditional Sunday Lunch at the Queens Head 12 noon – 4.00pm every Sunday

The only Travel Agent you will ever need

2 course £10 3 course £12.50 Phone 01676 522256 or Jenny on 07870 730836 Phone 01676 522256 Everyone’s an athlete, it’s just that some are in training and some are not!

Suzanne Barney Travel Counsellor Turning your travel dreams into reality Home visits by appointment 0845 0587 486

Email suzanne.barney@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/suzanne.barney

Friends in Retirement We are still thriving in Balsall Common with many members from Meriden.

Activities include Art, Bridge, Rambling, Patchwork and monthly coffee mornings.

A trip to Windsor is arranged for Tuesday 7th April and a trip to Buxton on Tuesday 9th June. Both trips will pick up in Meriden.

Please contact Frank Byrne for further details on 02476 713662 Our Coffee mornings are held in The Jubilee Centre (the old Balsall Common Library) on Friday March 20th, Friday April 17th, Friday May 15th from 10.00am- 12 noon

New members are always made very welcome Please ring 01676 523505 for more information

Musings from the Allotments The 2008 season started, as usual in early March with everyone getting ready. Seeds were promptly sown in the greenhouses and tended with loving care. Elsewhere on the allotments digging had started and by the time April and May were with us all digging and rotovating had been completed. The weather early on was quite good and seeds could be sown straight into the ground, but as the season progressed it gradually deteriorated. Did this deter us? Well yes it did a little, but hey, what is a drop of rain? (Liquid sunshine) The gardens were eventually planted up and the hosepipes were reeled backup. I have to say that despite all the wet weather most things did quite well and we managed to salvage some onions and potatoes from the blight.

During August we joined the Open garden Scheme for Cancer Research and with all the allotment holders donating fruit, vegetables, flowers and eggs, yes some of us even have chickens, we were able to make a considerable donation to this cause. Being August and a wet day we celebrated by holding a barbecue in the evening, at which a good time was had by all.

Celebrating the rain with a barbecue There is always some sort of friendly rivalry going on between the allotmenteers and this year was no exception, what with trying to grow the biggest marrow or the tallest sunflower.

There are also the unusual crops that we like to try, which last season included Jerusalem artichokes and watercress, both of which were very nice.

During October the task of putting the garden to bed for winter began, with some rough digging and a general tidy up.

All the allotments at the moment are taken, but should anyone care to join us for good old fashioned hard work which reaps plenty of rewards, then let me know and you can be put on the waiting list.

Ann Butler 01676 522745

We would like to thank everyone who has supported the Club over the last year, including Barker’s Butts RFC, The Heart of England Social Club, The Queen’s Head and all our sponsors. We are very pleased to inform you that last year we managed to raise £2020 for Acorn’s Hospices, a big thank you to everyone who supported our Fun Day and Quizzes.

This season we are in need of new players of all ages experienced or not, (coaching available)

Interested?

Then call Terry - 07970 119142 or Mike - 07775 567889

Quiz Night Thursday 19th March 8.00pm at the Queen’s Head Pub Old Road, Meriden Presented by your ever popular Quizmaster

Rick Wise

Prospective members/players are welcome to join us at our first committee meeting of the season, on Thursday 26th February 8pm at the Heart of England Social Club.

Entry £1 a head (max 5 persons a team)

Nets practice will commence on Tuesday April 7th at 6pm at the Queen’s Head, Old Road, Meriden, (Field at the rear of the pub).

A list of this season’s fixtures will be displayed in the Queen’s Head.

We look forward to meeting you.

Why is it that no plastic bag will open from the end that you first try?

Enjoy a free day trial More than just Leisure club Call 01676 526107

Offer ends 31st March 2009

Cedar wood Spa For all your Mothers day and Credit Crunch Stress Busting needs Gift Vouchers Available Call 01676 526149 for an appointment Marriott Forest of Arden, Maxstoke Lane, Meriden

A Message from Caroline Spelman MP Be prepared for Credit Crunch consequences Normally I would write my column about issues that are quite specific to Meriden, rather than nationwide issues.

However, the Credit Crunch and subsequent recession is far too serious to ignore, even at the village level.

Since the recession is predicted to be worse than anything we have experienced since WWII I felt it was important to address this. In my own lifetime I have experienced some pretty tough times, like when my school was only open 3 days a week during the oil shocks and the recession of the 1980s when I came out of university and struggled to find a job. So if it’s going to be worse still, I am very concerned.

Obviously what dominates all our minds is fear of the unknown. The profound loss of confidence in the economy has resulted in a deeper problem than just a credit crunch. People are reluctant to buy items large and small, and who can blame them. But many perfectly sound businesses will go to the wall if confidence doesn’t return and credit doesn’t start to flow again.

My own parents were a wartime generation and I marvelled and I observed how resourceful they were. I remember how my mum used to scrape the last remnants off every butter paper because it had been rationed. So I have started to think what I can do to help others through these hard times. That is what we have to rediscover – a real community spirit to help each other through. Village life lends itself to this because it’s easier to get to know people in a smaller community. I am always impressed by the way people rally round when there’s a death in the family: offers to cook, offers of lifts, all sorts of small practical gifts when we don’t know how to say how sorry we are that it has happened.

So the first step is to communicate. If someone has lost their job or their home or their savings they may not want to say but if weSpelman learn of this advice then we should offer help.

Caroline surgery dates I suggest this approach because I am worried about the social fabric of our society. Will people be able to adapt and be as resourceful as that wartime generation once did? The statisticians tell us that when times are good, drink related crimes increase and when they are bad, crime against property increase because of the heightened difference between those who have and those who have not. So sharing what we have seems one of the obvious ways to avoid this. I am not naive and realize it’s not easy. So for that reason can I remind folks that there are organisations out there to help you; the CAB is brilliant at helping people reschedule their personal debt; Solihull Community Housing has many on its waiting lists so try housing associations too. If the recession aggravates dependency on drugs or alcohol I run a drop in charity called Welcome where you can be sure of anonymity and if the pressure results in domestic abuse there is another charity called MABL which stands for Make a Better Life. So don’t suffer in silence during this crisis, we are all there to help you.

Make A Better Life Trust (MABL)

0800 032 6317 If you need to talk to someone in confidence about Domestic Violence please call the above number. It is open 10am till 12 noon Monday to Friday (except bank holidays) We will listen We will believe

Emotional Freedom Technique

Vikki Davison Want to find out more?

Smoking is linked to 120,000 UK deaths annually Resolutions for a healthier 2009 Try quitting with EFT

07528 852106 01676 534853

www.tap4healing.co.uk

To contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery please contact Rachel Anderson on 020 7219 4189 www.carolinespelman.com caroline@carolinespelman.com Caroline Spelman advice surgery dates Date Thurs 19th March

Time 4.30 - 6.00pm

Sat 21st March

9.00 - 10.30am 11.00 - 12 noon

Location Dickens Heath Library Chelmsley Wood Library Arden Hall Castle Bromwich

Thurs 23rd April

4.30 - 6.00pm

Balsall Common Library

Fri 15th May

4.30 - 6.00pm

Sat 16th May

9.00 - 10.30am

Knowle Parish Church Office Chelmsley Wood Library Arden Hall Castle Bromwich

11.00- 12 noon

THEIR NAME LIVETH FOREVER MORE In this issue of the Meriden Mag, Paul & Melanie Lee concentrate on the latest information received on the Officers and Men named upon the Meriden War. Memorial. The continued support of the Meriden Mag readers is greatly appreciated and hopefully some of these anecdotes will spark a memory or two that helps fill the missing gaps in this research project.

Mike Callow, nephew of Private Louis Callow, recently contacted us through the Meriden Mag to share his memories of those on the War Memorial that he and his family knew well. It makes for great reading as it shows how close Meriden was as a community.

Private Louis Callow was one of 6 brothers who fought in the First World War and sadly the only one who did not return. He served with the Hampshire Pioneers, 11th Battalion and died on 9th September 1916, aged 19. Louis is named on the Thiepval Memorial in France on Pier & Face 7C & 7B. Louis’s elder sister Laura was broken hearted when he died, with such a large family she most likely acted as mother to him. Laura signed up as an Auxiliary Post Woman and retired in the late 50s still with ‘temporary’ status. Mike remembers that she would have to sort the Meriden post with her cycle lamp, as it was too dark in the sorting room. He would occasionally help her with her postal rounds and recalls that most houses had no numbers, so his Aunt Laura knew everyone’s name by heart and through helping his aunt, Mike learned everyone’s name as well. Mike’s father, Leslie, was too young to serve, as he was only 14 when Louis died.

Mike lost his dad in 1935, when at the age of 33 he contracted double pneumonia.

Another casualty at the age of 19 during the Second World War was Sergeant John Henry Hollis who served with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He was shot down in Holland on 22nd June 1944 and is buried at Uden War Cemetry in Noord-Brabant. Mike refers to him as Jack but his nickname was ‘Mansh’, short for Mansion Polish, which rhymes with Hollis. Mike was reminiscing with an old friend of his, Ron Jackson, who he was best man for in 1948. Ron recalled that he and Jack were both at the ATC in Balsall Common and he remembers how proud Jack was when he returned from his air-gunner training sporting his Sergeant’s stripes. Sadly, he didn’t get to wear them for too long. Jack was brotherin-law to Gunner James Huntbach, who died fighting the Vichy French in Syria and was featured in the Meriden Mag in autumn 2007. He married Nancy Hollis and Walter Hollis married Alice Huntbach. Mike went to school with Jack’s brothers, the twins Fred and Bob. Sadly, Bob died at the age of 11 having fallen off his bicycle hitting his head and contracting a brain haemorrhage.

Mike remembers Jack Shirley as well, as he went to school with Jack’s niece Mollie Robertson, who contributed to Jack’s article in the summer issue of the Meriden Mag in 2007. Coincidentally, their headmaster, John Penrice, was Jack’s father-in-law. Mike lived in Whichcote Avenue and remembers Leading Stoker Brett’s daughter, Chris Ellison, as a baby. Chris contributed to her father’s article in the same issue as Jack’s. Mike has been back to Meriden a few times in the last five years, and keeps in touch through his friends and the Meriden Mag. It is thanks to Mike Callow, Mollie Robertson, Chris Ellison and Gunner Huntbach’s daughter and granddaughter, Ann and Louise Reid that the memories remain and can be featured in the Meriden Mag. And what is so uncanny is that these four families who have contributed with photos and memories are all linked in some way. They all still live in Meriden except Mike who moved to Allesley Park in 1956 when he got married. In 1972, Mike moved to Somerset when his 26 years service with Triumph ended when the company went ‘bust’.

If you have any information on the names inscribed on the Meriden War Memorial and would like it featured, please contact Paul & Melanie Lee via the Meriden Mag. We would like to end this page with special praise and thanks to Margaret Argyle and Val Martin: Congratulations for all your devotion to the Meriden Mag which was voted top in the Meriden Parish Appraisal Results as the best source of information for the residents of Meriden!

Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA

It’s none of our business Q: What do Christina Aguilera, Johann Sebastian Bach, Alexander Graham Bell, Laura Bush, Albert Camus, Fidel Castro, Winston Churchill, Bill Clinton, Leonardo DaVinci, Bette Davis, Walt Disney, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, Gerald Ford, Sigmund Freud, Ernesto “Che” Guevara, Ernest Hemingway, Lyndon B. Johnson, Angelina Jolie, John F. Kennedy, Rudyard Kipling, John Lennon, C.S. Lewis, Douglas MacArthur, Princess Margaret, Edward R. Murrow, Pat Nixon, Barack Obama, Pablo Picasso, Brad Pitt, Ayn Rand, Vanessa Redgrave, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jean-Paul Sartre, Frank Sinatra, Britney Spears and Mark Twain have in common?

A: All of them are, or were, smokers.

Some smoked cigars, others pipes, still others cigarettes. Bach even wrote a poem about smoking (“Edifying Thoughts of a Tobacco Smoker,” he called it.)

Churchill and Davis and Murrow and Roosevelt made smoking such an essential feature of their public images that one can barely conjure up their faces without also picturing their favorite nicotine-delivery devices. No wonder that when the U.S. Postal Service came out with a stamp of Miss Davis, the first thing you noticed was that Uncle Sam had electronically — not to mention rudely — snatched the offending ciggie right out of her hand.

Some, like Johnson and Roosevelt, suffered from health problems that surely were closely linked to their smoking. A few, like Castro, smoked for years and then stopped.

Others, like President Obama, are trying to quit.

OK, it’s a dangerous and disgusting practice, so it’s time for a disclaimer, and maybe no one has ever put the case more effectively than King James I of England, way back in 1604: “Smoking is a custom loathsome to the eye, hateful to the nose, harmful to the brain, dangerous to the lungs, and in the black, stinking fume thereof nearest resembling the horrible Stygian smoke of the pit that is bottomless.”

Smoking is also as American as apple pie, which no doubt is why Benjamin Latrobe chose tobacco leaves to replace the traditional acanthus leaves on some column capitals in the U.S. Capitol.

Be that as it may, Mr. Obama now inhabits the White House, not the Capitol, and 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. is famously (to some, notoriously) smoke free these days, as it has been since Hillary Clinton declared it so in 1992.

“And I think that you will not see any violations of these rules in the White House,” Mr. Obama told a TV presenter during the campaign. Notice that he built plenty of wiggle room into that tepid, fudgy non-pledge.

But a pledge is exactly what some of the anti-smoking activists want from him. An iron-clad pledge. As if he didn’t already have plenty on his plate.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity” for him to set an example for millions of Americans, said the president of one group.

Well, sure.

But do we really want the guy who’s just taken on all the responsibility of the presidency —questions of war and peace, what used to be called the leadership of what used to be called the Free World, command of the world’s most powerful military during a time of upheaval and global terrorism, the expectations of millions of people that he will somehow be able to bring the economy back from its current and unprecedented derangement — to also load himself down with the stress of giving up the old coffin-nails at the same time?

Do we want him coming down with the heebie-jeebies just when Kim Jong-Il starts acting up, or something?

I don’t think that’s a situation we want in the Situation Room. So here’s an idea: Leave the guy alone. Glenn Richter email:grichter@record-journal.com

KIMBERLEY & CO ACCOUNTANTS N. KIMBERLEY

FSPA • • • •

Accounts preparation, for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies Self assessment and corporation tax returns.

Payroll and Book-keeping services.

CIS scheme returns.

PHONE/FAX 01676 523531 MOBILE 07802181032 50 Leys Lane Meriden CV7 7LQ

Berkswell Village Museum

The Orme School of Dancing Meriden branch Methodist Church Hall Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Freestyle and Contemporary Principal Sandra Clarke FIDTA M.B.B.O Advanced Diploma (hons) Fellowship Teaching Degree (hons)

Tel: 02476 467271 Helping to keep dance available in Meriden

R.J.KENNING Painter and Decorator All aspects of decorating undertaken Free quotations available References available on request No job too big-No job too small Established over 25 years A reliable and friendly service

Interiors, Exteriors Woodwork Papering & Painting

02476 460754 Mob 07902 343950

David Deakin Plastering Services Interior plastering and coving work.

Insurance work welcome.

Free estimates, reliable, friendly, clean service.

Tel: 01676 521389 Mobile: 07767 237860 Chris’s Barbers 326 Kenilworth Road, Balsall Common Tel :07702 713094 Monday 10.00 -17.30 Tuesday 10.00-17.30 Wednesday CLOSED Thursday 10.00-19.30 Friday 10.00-17.30 Saturday 9.00-17.30 Sunday CLOSED

No appointment required

Hidden away in the centre of Berkswell Village is a small museum full of interesting items from the past with connections to the village and the surrounding area. The museum is housed in a pair of cottages built about 1500 and is very typical of the half-timber framed cottages found in Warwickshire. The cottages were turned into one property for the home of the village district nurse and midwife early in the twentieth century and were then condemned for habitation in the 1940s. It has been a museum since 1981 and consists of memorabilia, agricultural and domestic articles displayed in four attractive rooms.

Berkswell’s famous people are remembered with displays. Maud Watson – the first Ladies Singles Champion at Wimbledon, R E S Wyatt – a former England Cricket Captain and the film star Jeremy Brett – best known for his role as Sherlock Holmes. Come and see the cannon and Russian shield, trophies from the Crimean War presented to the village 150 years ago.

If you are interesting in volunteering please come along to an open afternoon on Sunday April 19th from 2.00pm The museum is open on Sunday afternoons and Bank Holidays from Easter to the end of September and at any other time by request, contact 01676 522077 or 533716

Pied Piper Pest & Wildlife Management The solution to all your pest vermin and wildlife problems

A Fast Discreet Service, Domestic/Commercial/Agricultural Free Survey & Quote, Fully Insured Traditional forms of mole & rabbit control Tel 0121 246 8879 Mobile 07989 348 467 www.piedpiperpestmanagement.co.uk

Meetings are held in the Village Hall on the first Monday in the month at 7.30pm Contact Joan Russell 01676 522666 It was unfortunate that both our January and February meetings were held on evenings when snowfalls and icy roads meant that many members were unable to attend. We are hoping for better things in March!

Monday 2nd March “Beyond the Metropolis” Speaker Janice Thorpe talking about Hong Kong and China.

Monday 6th April “Elgar Country” speakers Tony Cross and George Wallis a talk with musical excerpts.

Wednesday 6th May Resolution Meeting – please note change of day due to May Day Bank Holiday.

We shall also be making our annual trip to “The Queens Head in Bretford in March for skittles and a buffet lunch.

A flower arranging day is on the agenda in June and there will be a group meeting with four of our fellow Women’s Institutes in Allesley on 20th May

Today’s Women working for Tomorrow’s World

Are politicians the oldest profession?

A surgeon, an architect and a politician were arguing as to whose profession was the oldest.

Said the surgeon: “Eve was made from Adam’s rib, and that surely that was a surgical operation.”

“Maybe” admitted the architect, “but prior to that, order was created out of chaos, and that was an architectural job.”

“But” the politician pointed out in triumph “somebody had to have created the chaos first!”

Heart of England Social Club Come along and visit us!

The club offers a warm welcome, with excellent facilities for all, including a large concert room with live entertainment, lounge with the best view in the village, bar, games room, snooker room and beer garden with play area.

We now have Premiership Football on Satellite television!!!

Sunday evening Bingo at 8.30pm

Room hire available for private functions

Heart of England Social Club Berkswell Road,Meriden 01676 522430

Brailes Farm 522318

Wilja Potatoes Fresh cut turf, rockery stone Topsoil and other garden needs Village delivery To let – Wooden Holiday Chalet On the beach at Dunster Beach Holidays Nature Reserve near Minehead, Somerset.

Sleeps four – one bed settee and two single beds.

Fully equipped kitchen. Small washroom with toilet (showers and toilet block 50yards). Dining area, radio/CD, TV, rear patio with furniture, overlooking lake. Peaceful, safe and relaxing situation. Local to Minehead golf course, nature trails, sandy beach, lake and wonderful walks.

Close to site shop.

From £240 per week Phone Standley on 01676 5324543 or 0785 103 8518

CAMEO Come and Meet Each Other at the Community Centre on the 4th Friday of the month at 2.00 p.m.

Once again we have had a varied and interesting programme. In November Linda Dutch spoke about the history and making of Berkswell cheese; a hard cheese made from sheep’s milk, which is matured for 3 to 8 months to give it its unique texture and flavour. It is handmade at Ram Hall from milk produced by a flock of 500 Friesland ewes, all of which are bred on the farm. The cheese has won numerous awards both national and international. Linda had brought along some of this delicious cheese for us to sample and purchase.

.

In December we celebrated Christmas with a programme of drama performed by committee members and the singing of carols. We were grateful to Joan Russell for accompanying us on the keyboard. As usual, we enjoyed traditional mince pies, shortbread and sausage rolls. However, we were shocked and saddened by the sudden death of Peggy Patrick who had played such a vital part in the running of CAMEO and indeed she had been helping to organise the Christmas meeting shortly before she died. She will be sorely missed.

At the beginning of 2009 we were pleased to welcome the new Methodist minister Andrew Charlesworth. This is his first appointment and his talk reflected on his journey in life which had lead to this Ministry. His amusing talk was entitled “He didn’t bow to Baby Jesus”. Apparently, this referred to an incident in a Nativity play when he was 2 ½ years old! Andrew grew up in Manchester and went to Nottingham University. He told us of his long involvement with the Church before being called to the Methodist Ministry. He said that three things stand out in his life: God’s patience, God’s purpose and God’s passion. Andrew is looking forward to the rewarding, wonderful but daunting responsibility of his new job.

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

Ellen 522534 Forthcoming Meetings:27th March – “Is there anybody there?” Speaker Christine Philp 24th April - Speaker to be confirmed 22nd May – “The paintings of Dr Kittermaster” Speaker Doreen Agutter

Is nostalgia a thing of the past?

Franklin Construction Services Established 1979

• New build, renovation, maintenance, extensions, on domestic, commercial, and industrial properties.

• Full design, planning & build service • Free quotations • Window & door replacement in UPVC timber & aluminium • Conservatories erected, kitchens & bathrooms fitted • Tiling, carpentry, plastering, brickwork, slabbing, plumbing & double-glazing repairs carried out.

Workmanship may be inspected locally

01676 521502 mob 07801 579910

State Registered Chiropodist

Mrs C Booker SRCh, MChS Home visiting practice only

Tel 01676 534265 Do you need a cleaner?

Do you want someone to do all those household jobs you haven’t got time for?

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

Rotary Club of Meriden The Rotary Club of Meriden would like to thank everyone who supported our Santa Sleigh collection this year. Our Rotarians really enjoy accompanying Santa around the villages and it was great to see all those smiling faces (both Children & Parents). We hope we brought some joy and excitement during the Christmas period. Our collection raised £2,250, which will be used to support our main charity – Debra, a national charity working on behalf of people with a severe skin blistering condition. For more information about Debra please see their web site at http://www.debra.org.uk/. Thank you all for you generosity. We hope you had a great Christmas and we wish you a happy and prosperous New Year. We hope to see you next Christmas.

For more details of Meriden Rotary Club Please contact Roger Swindells 01675 481754 or Chris Swindells 01676 523510 www.meridenrotary.org.uk On Saturday, 17th January, The Rotary Club of Meriden once again played host to around 100 senior citizens from here and neighbouring villages. It was a lovely evening and I am sure everyone had a lovely time. The entertainment was excellent and we are all very grateful to the ladies (and Chris) who helped prepare the meals. I would personally like to thank all the members of the club and those members of their families who helped with transporting a number of our guests to and from Fentham Hall. Without the assistance of all these volunteers the event could not take place.

The Rotary organisation does ever such a lot of good throughout the world as well as locally. I am proud of the part that The Rotary Club of Meriden plays in our local community and long may it continue.

If anyone reading this believes that they would make a good Rotarian and is interested in learning more, please give me a call on 01827 68271.David Maugham

Balsall and District Horticultural Society

Celebrity Event Chris Beardshaw will share his experiences on “Garden Design” Thursday 2nd April at 7.30pm Heart of England School Gipsy Lane Balsall Common Plant Stall and Raffle Tickets £8.00 includes refreshments and free parking Tickets from Robert Leeming 01676 533091 Robert@leemingrj.demon.co.uk Or Chris Smith 01676 530151 Chrissmit9@aol.com

Once again the Senior Citizens Party has come and gone and once again I wonder how incredible it is that each year it seems to get better.

The transport, the delicious meal and the attentive service could not have been bettered in any first class restaurant plus there were heaps of beautiful raffle prizes to win with our free raffle tickets. The entertainment was provided by a virtuoso of the electric organ. I know such men have to be dexterous but I never realised that they also have to be athletic - he was very, very good and also brave for only at the end did we realise that a heavy rainstorm had sprung a leak which was dripping on the organ and himself. That's what I call pulling out all the stops which the Rotary members and their helpers do every year in the warmest and sweetest way. Thank you to Dev for organising it this year and to everyone involved.

Margaret Houldsworth

• • • • • •

Pensions Investments Protection Savings Employee benefits Inheritance Tax

Impartial Financial Advisers to Individuals and Companies Jamieson Christie Wealth Management Ltd Jamieson House, 326 Kenilworth Rd, Balsall Common CV7 7ER Tel 01676 532 210 Fax 01676 532 520 www.jamiesonchristie.com email mailbox@jamiesonchristie.com Jamieson Christie Wealth Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

New Business Venture comes to Meriden In November the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor David Bell, opened the New Berryfields Farm Shop in Berkswell Road Meriden. The day involved local suppliers offering tastings, ranging from cakes and bread to preserves and condiments, along with hot batches.

This new venture arose from a redundant barn and Chris and Fiona Barber spent virtually every waking moment researching, designing and planning. Then with the help of the “ Redundant Building Scheme”, built what is now a fabulous shopping experience.

The small farm shop had become very popular with customers wishing to buy local produce but demand had out grown the premises. Berryfields Farm has seen a lot of changes over the years, none more so than this latest development.

Berryfields has been in the family for three generations and has grown vegetables and reared livestock. In 2000 Chris and Fiona started attending Farmers Markets to sell their home reared pork, bacon and pies. The response from the public was “absolutely fantastic” and the original small farm shop was the result.

A particular favourite has been “Auntie Winnie’s Pork Pies. Aunt Winnie is Chris’s Great Aunt and she is now in her 100th year. She is the daughter of Garner’s the renowned pork butchers in Coventry and Fiona took her recipe and with some alterations and tastings “Auntie Winnies” was launched.

The new shop sells Berryfield’s specialist ham and dry cured bacon and an assortment of locally sourced fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, game, dairy, bakery, cakes and delicatessen.

Their latest venture will be a food tasting day on Saturday 28th February

WELCOME TO A FRESH FOOD EXPERIENCE Come and visit our brand new farm shop

We offer a fabulous range of fresh local foods: meats, seasonal fruits and vegetables complemented by the finest preserves, cakes and condiments Join us at our Food Festival from 10.00am on Saturday February 28th Free tastings from our regular suppliers of cakes, bread, ice-cream, coffee and many more.

Home produced hot pork baps for sale We are conveniently located ½ mile up Berkswell Road from Meriden duck pond Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 9am – 5.30pm Late night Thursday Sunday 10am – 2pm Closed Monday Contact us on 01676 522155-email:info@berryfieldsfarmshop.co.uk

CLIMBING PLANTS

By Elaine Hitchens of Balsall Common and District Horticultural Society A rather general title for a huge variety of plants. However I am attempting to look at climbing plants that thrive in the soil of this area and ones that we have had success in growing over the last 25 years. It is therefore not a comprehensive list but may hopefully suggest a few plants that you may not have tried.

Starting with A. Akebia quinata will happily creep up any support on a warm, sheltered wall it bears deep purple flowers in March and April. A vigorous, hardy, semi-evergreen twiner. It is also known as the Chocolate Vine and will reach a height 4m or more.

We grow several varieties of clematis to scramble through trees, but this year I am growing Clematis ‘Broughton Bride’ in a container as well as in the garden. A pretty plant with large, bell-shaped white flowers specked lilac. It blooms from April to July and likes any well drained soil, but roots should be kept cool. This seems to be the only clematis that has won every prize available One of the best spring flowering clematis in our garden is Clematis Alpina Frances Rivis AGM. It flowers early with delicate violet-blue flowers with white stamens, with silky seeds heads in summer and autumn.. It grows happily through small trees and is very hardy, requiring little attention.

Broughton Bride

Clematis Florida “Sieboldii” neeeds a sunny spot in well drained soil, but roots need to be kept cool with mulch or shade. It flowers from June to August with creamy petals and striking central purple rosettes of stamens; blooms can be up to 4 inches across.

Sieboldii grows to 6 – 10 feet tall, pruning can be carried out in February or March as it flowers on new growth.

Clematis Montana Elizabeth is a very vigourous variety with dark green foliage. When smothered with light pink fragrant flowers in spring it looks sensational. One of its advantages is that it will cover a trellis, fence or wall very quickly.

Florida Sieboldii

We grow several honeysuckles, but perhaps the favourite is the dutch Lonicera periclymenum Serotina. A good tempered plant it produces richly perfumed, tubular, creamy white flowers, streaked dark-red purple, from July to October. A vigourius later flowering, deciduous variety It seems to grow best in light shade.

It can be planted from autumn to late winter from cuttings which are easily progated.

In fact when our garden was open for the National Gardens Society people formed a little queue as I was pulling up rooted suckers to give away.

One of our best climbing plant finds of the last few years is Wisteria ‘Amethyst’ Unlike most wisterias, this variety differs in that it has a more compact habit, and can be kept to a sensible size - it's ideal for covering just part of a wall or fence or grown as a free standing tree. Plant in full sun or part shade in well-drained fertile soil.

The flower heads are born profusely with a delightful amethyst colour and a lovely perfume. It flowers at a relatively young age during April and May. Wisteria Amethyst

Suggesting climbing roses is to enter a minefield.

However perhaps one that is worth looking out for is Étude.

A long flowering rose, it will reach a height of about 12 feet (3.6 m) A good tempered rose with large clusters of attractive deep rose-pink semi-double flowers.

It always attracts comment and appreciation, and only disappoints with its faint scent.

We have grown Passiflora Caerulea - Passionflower for many years. It looks exotic, but flowers reliably with creamy-white flowers and purple-blue zoned coronas.

It clings with tendrils, so plants won't damage brickwork or fences but needs suitable supports to grow on, we use wires against a wall.

It is in bloom from mid- to late summer and later it is not unusual to find large orange-yellow fruits forming.

It carries the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Tired of juggling family & work commitments?

PC Technical Services Tile Hill Lane, Coventry

Are you feeling the pressure?

Home Computer Repairs, Upgrading & Problem Solving

Do you need balance and a flexible lifestyle?

Telephone 024 7667 4952

Would a regular part time income make a difference to the quality of your life?

If you are honest, ethical and hardworking and can follow a simple system, and want to make changes in your life then we would like to hear from you.

Internet & e-mail, troubleshooting & tuition

Life is for living!

Are you living the life you want?

Call us TODAY and make today the day you turn your life around!

Contact Gill or Spence on 01676 534020 or 07817154596!

IDYLLIC GARDENS

Independent personal attention ‘Meriden Mag’ would like to thank Peter for his help with recent computer problems and are pleased to recommend him to our readers

Year 5’s Magic Rainforest Box I will put in the box the crumbling cast of bright green leaves, a pink sunset sinking into the horizon, the squawk of a magnificent macaw.

I will put in the box a cacophony of sounds and colours, a cascade of crystal clear water, the spark of a deadly cobra’s tongue.

I will put in the box the purr of a passive possum, a lovely leaf from the tallest tree and the yowl of a black and gold wildcat.

I will put in the box the crunch of crispy rotten leaves, the twinkle of a sparkling sun and the waves of fur in a lion’s mane.

Design and Construction Cultivated Turf & Lawns Patios - Paths - Yorkstone Block Paving - Drives Decking - Pergolas Fencing - Trellis Work All Brickwork - Ponds Garden Maintenance Free advice & estimates Portfolio and references available • • • • • • •

01676 522 828 Mobile : 07976 205143

I will put in the box rubbery leaves tumbling like tears, a drop of water from the drip tip leaf and a twizzling snake slithering towards its prey.

I will put in the box the springing leap of a poisonous dart frog, the whistling wind howling through the trees and the squelch of mud around the hunter’s feet.

I will put in the box the ease of the orang-utan’s swing through the canopy, the crouch before the pounce of a hungry jaguar and a burnt orange hair from a tarantula’s back.

Meriden School Year 5’s version of the famous poem “The Magic Box”

by Kit Wright

The launch event for Solihull in Bloom will be in Solihull Town Centre on 28th March from 11am-3: 30pm where there will be free seeds being handed out, a plant swap stall, demos and displays. We will be launching the 2008 floral garden competition – entry forms will be available from your local library and printed in the Solihull Times as well as applying online at www.solihull.gov.uk . There are various categories from schools to pubs and restaurants to residents’ gardens and hanging baskets. We had some good entries last year and the presentation evening at Notcutts is always well attended.

Events in Solihull

th

Brilliant Bird Watch Walk Wednesday 18 March 10.30am (2 hours approx) Hillfield Park, car park by play area.

Star Gazing – Spring Watch Wednesday 1st April 8.00pm (1 ½ hours) Dorridge Park Ranger Road Show Monday 6th April 10.00am-3.00pm Mell Square Town Centre Easter Egg Hunt Friday 10th April 11.00am-2.00pm Elmdon Park £ 1 per child for puppet show and treasure hunt.

Scarecrow Making Day Wednesday 15th April from 10.30am (1 ½ hours) Knowle Park.

Bluebell Walk Sunday 26th April 2.00pm(1 ½ hours approx) Millison’s Wood Music in the Park 1 Sunday 3rd May 2.00pm-4.15pm Malvern Park Batty Boxes Friday 29th May 11.00am (2 hours) Knowle Nature Sunday 31st May 2.00pm (2 hours) Lavender Hall Park Balsall Common This is just a selection of activities in or around Solihull. You can find out more by reading the new Events in Solihull’s Parks and Open Spaces Guide which was launched in January filled with lots of events for all ages – from brass bands in the park to scarecrow making and conservation groups to fun festivals. So please down load a copy from www.solihull.gov.uk, visit your local library or call 0121 704 8000 for a free copy.

FREE RANGE MERIDEN PORK We have all probably noticed in the media recently the big discussion about where our pork comes from and you probably saw the Jamie Oliver programme “Saving Our Bacon”, which highlighted two main factors. The first is the condition and treatment of pigs overseas and the second factor is British farmers struggling to compete with cheap pork from overseas.

I would like to tell you about a quiet little farm that is starting to have a big impact on local people’s views about pork. This farm in Cornets End Lane has been producing and selling cattle and sheep for 5 generations but their pigs were always produced for friends and family only, where they were famous for being sweet and tender and not too fatty. One of the key reasons the Holtom’s achieve this is that the pigs are fed on a diet of fruit and vegetables (not scraps). They are fed twice a day unlike factory-reared pork where they are fed continuously via an automated feeder. They also have the opportunity to roam free around their field, therefore producing a pig that is happy and healthy. So how has this now become popular amongst many in Meriden?

Going back 5 weeks, we had one too many pigs ready for slaughter and no one to buy it, so we offered to sell the pig to Tom’s Butchers in Meriden. Tom, on receiving the pig said it was one of the best pigs that he had ever seen in his time as a butcher. He had an amazing response from his customers and they came back for more. Now we supply them 1½ pigs per week that are free range and bred to the same standards as The Holtom’s tradition. The other benefit is that it has reduced their carbon footprint by a huge amount as the pigs are bred and slaughtered locally. This also ensures that they are of the freshest quality.

Tom’s Butcheries is a father to son business, with the traditional butchery skills passed down. It is important to them that the meat they sell is treated with the utmost respect from farm to customer, and we are confident that you can really taste the difference. Will Markham, Holtom’s and Tom’s Butcheries

Tom’s Butchery Established 25 years 3 The Green Meriden Telephone: 01676 522822 • Now stocking Berkswell Ewes milk cheese • Genuine Scotch Angus Beef sold as seen on TV • Wide selection of prize winning sausages • Best quality English Lamb & pork • Wide selection of bacon including dry cure English • Deli counter with a wide selection of cheese, pies and cooked meats

T’ai Chi and Meditation and Relaxation Come and discover how the beautiful flowing movements of this ancient art can improve your well-being. Relax and enjoy simple calming relaxation and meditation techniques.

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

.

BALSALL COMMON

Meriden library 01676 522717 Open Monday 10.00am – 7.00pm Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm By the time you read this, spring will be imminent and warmer weather on its way! (As I write this I can see the frost on the village green outside the library!)

The New Year has seen us welcome a new member of staff, Carole Cooper, to our team. Carole has already wowed our under 5s at their weekly story time with Chinese dragons and lots of rhymes and songs. We hope she will enjoy her time in Meriden and being part of our community.

With Mother’s Day (22nd March) and Easter (10th – 13th April) just around the corner, please bear in mind the library’s stock of Book Tokens. They are an ideal gift for anyone and suitable for all occasions – bringing pleasure and the joy of reading to everyone.

Book Tokens can be used at most bookshops and stationers on the High Street – why not pop in and have a chat to the staff about them?

Talking of Easter, our Coffee Morning will be held on Thursday 9th April 2009, between 10.00am and 12noon. Come along for coffee, tea and hot cross buns on the day – we look forward to seeing you.

As mentioned earlier, story times for the under 5s continue to take place every Monday during term time, from 2.45pm – 3.15pm. Come and join in with the stories, rhymes, songs and craft activities, and meet other parents or carers of young children.

Don’t forget the library has an extensive range of tourist information from country houses to wander around, to local events and activities. Drop in and help yourself to some of our leaflets, or ask the staff for more information on a place you would like to visit.

The library continues to provide free Internet access to the public, with a small charge for any printing carried out. Anyone with an interest in Family History will be pleased to hear that the 1911 Census has been released online for the public to search and look at for the first time. Searching is free, but at the moment, there is a charge for viewing transcripts and original entries on the census. Please ask staff for more details and information on fees and methods of payment.

Remember, the library belongs to everyone – so drop in and have a look around next time you are passing!

Are you retired or semi-retired and looking for an interest to pursue? Balsall Common has 22 interest Groups ranging from Philosophy to Ramblers- Photography to scrabble – all our meetings are during the daytime, except for social evenings.

You can join as many individual interest groups as you like.

We hold monthly core meetings when we invite speakers to talk on a variety of subjects. 1-45 for 2-00 in the Village Hall, Balsall Common.

In addition we have 2 coach trips a year and social events. Our popular Questers Group have monthly visits to places of interest and during the summer months World Religions group commence church visits whilst Garden visits commences again in April.

Visitors and prospective members welcome, Fee: £1.50, which is refundable on joining U3A. Further information from Anne Santos – email info@balsallcommonu3a.org or phone 01676 534003.

MERIDEN LIBRARY READERS' GROUP

One member commented that even when there are only a few of us present, we still manage to find plenty to talk about! We should, however, be very pleased to have more readers join us. We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7.30 pm - details of the venue from Meriden Library staff.

Our spring programme: March - poets and poetry April - favourite detectives May - books from Richard and Judy's current list Look forward to seeing you!

Sue Fuller

Meriden Knights Chess Club The chess club is down to two players at the moment and have temporarily joined Coventry Chess club (an amalgamation of Whoberley and Massey Fergusson) as reserve players with the possibility of a third person joining them who has read about our club. We are not meeting at the Methodist church at the moment but hopefully if a few other people express an interest we have all the equipment we can reopen.

We want players of any age or ability, they don’t even have to play every week but obviously we would need half a dozen to put out a team of four during the Coventry and District Chess League Season. . For more details contact Shirley or Graeme 01676521259 or www.meridenchess.org

Meriden` Volunteers for Cancer Research UK We are busy planning this year’s programme and so far have confirmed the following two events.

Friday 3rd April 7.30 pm - Black Country Evening at the Heart of England Club. This event has been well supported in the past and is back by popular demand.

The price of £12 includes a fish and chip supper; please buy your tickets in advance so we can order the correct number of meals.

Friday 9th October the “In the Pink” Ladies evening will be held at Strawberry Bank Hotel. Lorena Dyer, a wellknown local flower arranger has agreed to do a demonstration for us. A comedienne with Black Country type humour has also been booked. The evening will be supported by stalls selling jewellery, cards, make up etc.

We hope that you will support both of these good value, fun evenings and at the same time raise money for our very worthy cause.

We are also planning a summer garden party for August, so please save your bric a brac, plants, books etc.

For more information and tickets please contact Mary Warr 01676 522160 Carol Lindeque 07811613905 or other Committee Members

Heart England of

Property Maintenance Plumbing Carpentry General Maintenance Painting & Decorating Contact Paul Morgan on 01676 542885 07917 692948 mobile

blitz Beauty Salon Telephone 01676 521100 Men and Women welcome Open 7 days a week Monthly offers available New dual treatment room Gift vouchers available

All aspects of Beauty Therapy to include; Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Eye treatment, Facials, Caci facials facials and body treatments, microdermabrasion , massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology, Gel Nail Extensions, Body Wraps, Hot Stone Massage, Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun bed.

Clinics available for Restylane, Muscle relaxing injections and Teeth whitening Also the home of Blitz the Bulge slimming club!!

Monday 9-5, Tuesday 9-9, Wednesday 9-9, Thursday9-9, Friday 9-7, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 10-2

For more details or to go on our mailing list Telephone 01676 521100 Also treatment rooms available at the Windmill Village Hotel and Nailcote Hall Hotel

Pub of the year 2008 (Sponsored by Warwickshire Life Magazine) We serve freshly prepared food all day every day until 10.00pm and 9.30pm on Sundays Come along and relax with • Roaring fires • Great cask ales • Continental beers • Fantastic wine list

Fixed Price Menu Mon - Thurs 12noon -10pm Fri & Sat 12 noon -6.00pm 1 course £6.50 2 courses £8.50 3 courses £10.50

01676 523 798 www.thebullsheadmeriden.co.uk Win a meal for Two and a bottle of wine at the Bull’s Head by answering the following question What is the date on the Bull’s Head Pub?

BRI ASSET MANAGEMENT PLC

BRI is an independent firm based locally in Meriden offering expert investment management for: • Stocks and Shares • Unit Trusts • Peps and ISAs • Personal Pensions

We also provide advice on planning for Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax. Please call us for a free review of your existing investments “Local professional Investment Management”

(the meal will be a 3 course meal from the fixed price menu) Answers with your name and phone number to the Library or email to val.simon@virgin.net (subject: competition) by March 31st (a winner will be chosen at random after this date)

To find out more information, please contact Paul Cusack BRI Asset Management plc BRI House, Meriden Business Park, Meriden CV5 9RL Tel 01676 523550 Fax 01676 522799 Email: pjc@brigroup.co.uk BRI Asset Management plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

Meriden onday 11 December18 Floral Society JuneMonday £ th

Monday 16th March “Wax Lyrical” Sandra Meakin Monday 20th April “Floral Inspirations” Mary Western Monday 18th May “Passionate about Plants” Juddi Cripps

Meetings are held in Meriden Village Hall at 7.30pm prompt For further information Telephone Val Miller on 01676 540380 Sandra Jones on 01676 523023

For the very best for your dog, contact…

Roy & Lesley Thompson, at

Meriroyles 118 Fillongley Road, Meriden.

Telephone 01676 522405 also “HOLIDAY HOME FOR SMALL PETS” RUN BY SOPHIE. Telephone 01676 522405 for details

PILATES CLASS MERIDEN METHODIST CHURCH HALL

Tuesday evening 6.15pm – 7.15pm Classes run in 6-week courses 1 to 1 Pilates reformer equipment at The Hampton Gym, Hampton in Arden Free trial session with this advertisement

For more details contact Jo on 07952 473526

Meriden Surgery

01676 522252

Opening Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Wednesday

8.30am to 6pm 8.30am to 12.00

When the Surgery is closed The Practice uses a GP co-operative Badger for emergencies outside normal surgery hours.

For details on how to obtain medical help when the surgery is closed please telephone

01676 532587 Repeat Prescription Requests We prefer these to be ordered using the list attached to your previous prescription.

• Post to the surgery • Hand to the surgery

•

Fax 01676 523865 to the surgery

If necessary telephone requests will be taken between 10.00am and 12.30pm & 2.00pm-4.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. Please quote your computer number.

48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN FOR ALL PRESCRIPTION REQUESTS PRE BOOKED APPOINTMENTS We would like to make patients aware that appointments can be booked with doctors in advance of 48 hours. We understand that patients have commitments that require them to book appointments with us further in advance than 48 hours. We have therefore allocated a number of appointments that can be booked in advance; these are included in every surgery taken by a doctor with the exception of locums. Once these appointments have been allocated the remaining will be available on the 48 hour booking rule.

Please ask at reception if you would like to book further in advance than 48 hours.

Please Help Us – Your Surgery Needs You To Cancel Unwanted Appointments As I am sure all the readers of the Meriden Magazine are aware, doctor and nurse appointments at the Meriden Surgery can sometimes be difficult to arrange because the appointment times requested by patients have already been allocated to other patients. The surgery tries its best to answer the needs of the patients within the resources we have.

We want to offer a service that meets the needs of the patients but we are finding it increasingly difficult to do so with such a large amount of surgery time being lost through patients not cancelling appointments they are unable to keep. Please help us to help you.

If you cannot attend an appointment you have made let us know so that we can offer it to another patient. Letting us know after the appointment time has passed does not help us as the appointment has already been lost.

Please, if you can’t attend it remember to cancel it.

Home Visits If patients are too ill to attend the surgery, or are housebound and need a doctor to visit them at home please telephone the surgery 01676522252

BEFORE 10.00am.

Comments If you would like to make any comments, complaints or suggestions concerning the surgery please contact Joanne Hope, Practice manager on 01676 532213 or in writing to the surgery.

Lloyds Pharmacy The Green Meriden Tel/ Fax 01676 522722

Monday – Friday 9.00am – 6.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm Sunday Closed

Changes to 192/194 Bus service to Solihull with effect from 25th January 2009 As part of a wider review of the Solihull bus network by transport authority Centro, Solihull Council and National Express Coventry, the192 and 194 services are being replaced with improved service 19W and a new 19X service will be extended to Solihull.

Additional benefits of the new 19W and 19X service include new links from Solihull and Balsall Common to Warwick University, faster and more regular journeys from Canley to the city centre and an all day service to Westwood business Park.

The new 19W and 19X service will continue to run from Pool Meadows bus stop to Tile Hill but will now continue into Solihull rail station via Balsall Common, Berkswell and Meriden the route will follow a slightly different route through Coventry, running via Canley instead of Tile Hill. However the bus follows the usual route from Meriden to Solihull and stops at the normal bus stops in the village. The service is now hourly through the main part of the day. The 900 Bus service to Coventry from Birmingham remains unaffected

Please ring Travel line 0871 2002233 for a detailed timetable.

The ‘Taxibus’ provides a door-to-door demand responsive local bus service within an operating area, the service can be used to travel to and from Meriden to Solihull, the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham Airport, Birmingham International Rail Station, Shirley and Coventry from where links to other parts of the West Midlands by bus or rail can be made.

Registration to use the service is free and the fares charged on the service are calculated on a mileage basis, are similar to regular bus fares and advised to the passenger when a booking is made. All West Midlands concessionary passes, Centrocards and Busmaster tickets are accepted in full or part payment for the fare.

The number to ring in order to register or make a booking is: 0121 783 6869 The Booking Office is open between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday The telephone number to ring in order to cancel a booking is: 0121 784 6644 This facility is available between 8am and 11pm daily The service runs between 8am and 7:30pm Monday to Saturday.

Taxibus service is available for disabled and able-bodied passengers alike and can pick you up from your own home

Community Transport Solihull Is a local charity supplying transport for non-profit making groups. They have lately seen the number of groups they help rise from 90 to 140 and expect to make 20,000 trips this year. The charity has recently raised over £30.000 to purchase 2 new minibuses. Community Transport can provide CRB checked and MiDAS trained drivers or provide training for your own drivers if cost is an issue. Anyone interested in hiring a minibus for their group or in volunteering please contact David Peplow at the address below

bringing people and opportunities together

Community Transport Solihull Tel: 0121 779 5547 Fordbridge Club for Young People Chapelhouse Rd Fordbridge Birmingham B37 5HA email:solihull@communitytransport.org

Local Farmers Markets

Still open for business!

As we enter our 41st year we are pleased to report that we are still open 8.30 am –4.30pm daily Sessions, full days, odd hours and lunchtimes available.

Educational activities and play in a caring setting.

School nursery collections from local schools.

Large rooms, good outside space and qualified staff offering quality childcare at reasonable prices.

Solihull High Street – 1st Friday in month 9.00am – 3.00pm Kenilworth Abbey End- 2nd Saturday in month 9.00am – 2.00pm Warwick Market Square -3rd Friday in month 10.00am – 3.00pm Leamington Spa – bottom of Parade 4th Saturday in month 9.00am – 2.00pm Coventry - Market Way 2nd Thursday in month 9.00am-4.30pm Coleshill – Church Hill – 4th Friday in month 10.00am – 2.00pm

Call in and see us any time in the Methodist Church hall Main Road (opposite the duck pond) or ring 0788 270 5490 for any enquiries and ask for Marilyn or Pat.

Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup Serves 4

We are at present offering a free trial to any child aged 2-5

cable38@googlemail.com

139 Yoxall Road, Shirley Solihull B90 3RW

12oz cauliflower & broccoli florets chopped 3 spring onions or 1 small chopped onion 1tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried 1 pt vegetable stock ½ pt milk pinch of nutmeg 2tbsps half fat crème fraiche salt and pepper Simmer cauliflower, broccoli,onion thyme and stock in covered saucepan until tender.

Add milk and nutmeg and bring to boil Cool slightly, blend in liquidiser with crème fraiche till smooth.

Season to taste.

(Can be thickened with 2tsps cornflour when milk is added.)

Holiday Accommodation 3 bedroom 2 bathroom Spacious apartment in Typical Spanish village 10 minutes from the sea 10 minutes to golf course Roof top pool Available for holiday let

Location: Heredades. Luxury accommodation in a typical Spanish village with local shops & restaurants. Close to the lovely sandy beaches of Guadamar & La Finca golf course. 35 min drive from Murcia & Alicante airports

See website: www.stillinspain.com for more information

Contact: Malcom Hickin 01676 533716

Domestic, Office & Commercial Cleaning Service I offer a domestic or commercial cleaning service for your home, office, workplace or communal areas Whatever your cleaning needs are I can provide a service to match them.

I have FULL insurance and have an enhanced CRB (police) check

Please call Lynda on Home 02476 381 783 Mobile 07702 789 264

David James Ellard, March 1914 –January 2009 94 years young.

Since moving from Maxstoke a year or so after marrying Gertrude, where he was in service at Maxstoke Castle, David lived at West Mount, Leys Lane, Meriden for 71 ½ years.

He leaves Gertrude his wife of 71 years, two sons, Jeff and Brian, two grand children, Martin and Allan, and two great grand children, Ethan and Emily.

David worked his allotment for over 60 years, bringing home the vegetables, which Obviously helped to maintain his health to his fine old age. He was a founder member of the Oddfellows allotments and helped to peg out the site.

From an early age of living in Maxstoke, he enjoyed the outside life. Along with Gert, cycling, single and tandem, then motor cycling, and when the children came along, motor and sidecar, eventually travelling around the British Isles in a Morris Minor traveller.

In his early days in Meriden being politically minded he helped start the Meriden Labour Party.

Working at Samons and Son Wood Yard, he worked wood into coffee tables and other items, working them with love and joy for their beauty.

The hedgerows and allotment were plundered for the wine. Over the years, when the grandchildren were visiting Nana and Granddad, many a bottle cork was popped from Elderberry Champagne, elderberry wine and as many other wines as you could imagine.

David Ellard enjoyed holidays spent with his family walking in Cornwall, Snowdonia and Dartmoor. He climbed Snowdon when he was 70 years old carrying a bottle of home brewed champagne to toast the climb.

When out David was a familiar sight in his tartan beret.

He was cremated on Tuesday 27th January 2009 at Oakley Wood Crematorium where family and friends gathered to remember him.

Peggy Patrick July 6th 1936 – Dec 7th 2008 Mother of Cheryl, Melanie, Caroline and Justine It was with great sadness that we lost our dear Mum prior to Christmas very suddenly.

The daughter of a Yardley blacksmith she had lived in Meriden for most of her life.

Starting off her married life with our father John at Albert Road in the late 1950’s and then moving to Hillwood cottage, which became our home for 44 years.

She touched on the hearts of many people and was an active member of the local community. Her smile would light up rooms and her inner warmth was infectious to those she met.

Her work within the community impacted on the lives of both young and old. Many people will remember her from her earliest years when she was active in running one of the first youth groups in Meriden with Dad, based at the ‘Old School’ and being involved with taking away residents from the then Pendrells home which at the time was home to residents with Cerebral palsy Mum’s community work touched on the lives of both young and old.

Having a strong faith, Mum was a Sunday school teacher throughout the whole of her life. She established with other church members the Meriden MIG Club, a youth group for young people, which ran successfully for many years and was actively involved with Meriden Cameo group supporting and entertaining older members of Meriden’s community.

Her funeral service took place at Meriden Methodist church on 17th December and it was lovely to see the church packed with so many of her friends.

We would like to thank members of the church who so kindly served tea and refreshments after the funeral service and would also like to thank all those people who have sent us such lovely messages of support and offers of help during this incredibly sad time.

At the time of Mums death we questioned the positives and negatives of having TIME and NO TIME to say goodbye.

As a close family we have now experienced both.

Having time is painful and having no time is just as painful.

We were just so blessed to have the most wonderful mum, whose warmth and love will be with us always.

Cheryl, Melanie, Caroline and Justine Patrick

Family flowers were requested and donations were collected for Acorn Children’s hospice and McMillan cancer support. A total of £870 was collected.

In Memory of the 11th Earl of Aylesford The late Earl of Aylesford took an interest in my educational progress and when I gained a State Scholarship, as the JP, authenticated my official papers. He was an enthusiastic family man and local historian who gave me many snippets of fascinating information. The Earl was hereditary lord of Meriden manor after the Aylesford family purchased it in 1783 from the Earls of Derby. Sadly I was unable to fulfil what was in fact his last request in time: to discover the place in Shropshire where his ancestor Mr John Fisher of Great Packington had originated. I found the answer a week too late.

Recently a friend kindly loaned me an old scrapbook and has given me permission to relate an item about the 6th Earl recorded in it.

On January 10th 1871 the Rt Hon Heneage Finch, the 6th Earl of Aylesford though only 46 years old died at his town residence in Grosvernor Square, London. He had been in poor health for sometime but had reached the average life expectancy for a man in mid- Victorian England. Born at Gt Packington in December 1824, he had married Anne Wightwick an heiress from Offchurch. In those days the Aylesford Estates encompassed properties in Leicestershire and Kent as well as the Earls being leading landowners in this county. He and the Countess, who outlived him, had 4 sons and a daughter.

The scrapbook article tells us about his funeral at St James’s church, Gt Packington on 14 January 1871. The funeral arrangements were made in London though a Coventry firm provided the horses and carriages. A lead coffin inside a wooden one, covered by a crimson velvet pall came by train to Hampton station and from there to Gt Packington by road.

Once at Packington about 60 tenants from all his Warwickshire estates amassed to lead the cortege to the church followed next by the Hall servants and his valet preceded by a plume of feathers, carrying his coronet. Next came the hearse drawn by 4 horses and another 5 mourning coaches occupied by male family members identified in some detail and finally neighbours ‘carriages, Mr Darlington of Meriden Hall bringing up the rear. Only men attended funerals in those days. Groups of local residents stood together, silently paying their respects, spaced out along the route of the procession as it wended its way the half mile or so across the Park.

The funeral party was met at the church gates by the vicar Revd Waller and a former incumbent Revd Legge, an Aylesford in-law who each took a part of the service. Revd Legge began in the church while Revd Waller continued outside with the committal. Surprisingly the Earl was buried in the churchyard not in the family vault under St James’s. The churchyard gates were left open after the service so that villagers could see the coffin with mourners’ flowers and coronet placed on its lid. The following Sunday, Gt and Little Packington churches were draped in black. Meriden and Bickenhill churches followed suit the Sunday after.

The Illustrated London News reported the details of his will shortly afterwards though value of the estate, £120,000.00 means little in contemporary terms. All his offspring except his heir Heneage aged 21 and recently married needed a guardian. The Countess received her father’s property at Offchurch for life. The Gt Packington Estate went to the new Earl who died without heirs. The late Earl was descended from a younger brother.

The scrapbook also contains details of Albert, the Prince Consort’s funeral.

Doreen Agutter Packington Hall today I’m fine Thank You There’s nothing the matter with me, I’m as healthy as I can be.

I have arthritis in both my knees And when I talk, I talk with a wheeze.

Sleep is denied me night after night But every morning I find I’m all right My memory is failing, my head’s in a spin, But I’m awfully well for the shape I’m in.

How do I know my youth is all spent?

Well my “get up and go” has got up and went.

But I really don’t mind when I think with a grin, Of all the grand places my “get up” has bin.

Old age is golden” I’ve heard it said, But sometimes I wonder as I get into bed With my ears in the drawer, my teeth in a cup, My eyes on the table until I wake up Ere sleep overtakes me I say to myself “Is there any thing else I could lay on the shelf?”

When I was young my slippers were red I could kick my heels over my head When I was older my slippers were blue But I still could dance The whole night through Now I am older my slippers are black I walk to the store And puff my way back I get up each morning and dust off my wits And pick up the papers and read the “obits” If my name is still missing I know I’m not dead So I have a good breakfast - and face what’s ahead.

With thanks to the anonymous donor from Millison’s Wood

I would like to thank Pat and Val for all the hard work they put into the Monday and Wednesday Clubs especially the lovely Christmas parties, they are both so caring and thoughtful.

Also thanks to them both for all the support they gave to Evie Cheadle on the death of her husband Sam. Her son John and her daughter Margaret really appreciate what they have done. Thanks again.

Thank you On behalf of Corley Golden Years Club I would like to thank the ladies from Meriden who supported “The Hot Bag Team” at their fund raising afternoon. We raised £642.10 for McMillan Cancer support.

Many thanks Mrs R.Goolding

Vi Rapson and Family

Mrs Diane Horwood is retiring from her position as caretaker of the Village Hall. The Committee would like to thank her for her years of excellent service and wish her all the very best in her retirement

Why do people constantly return to the refrigerator with hopes that something new to eat will have materialised?

Dear Editors, Many thanks for the winter edition of Meriden Mag. I am still quite active, but feel that it will help to prompt my memory bank to see names, which "ring a bell". (Rather appropriate in my case) Yesterday morning, I Iooked out of the landing window and saw a 12-metre vehicle (on a "no HGV" B road) and on checking, found the name "A. Pettifor, Meriden" emblazoned on the side.

Another prompt to remember!

I then surfed the Meriden Mag back numbers, from autumn, 2006 onwards for inspiration.

At this time of the year, the Roll of Honour articles were particularly interesting. Louis Callow was my uncle, the youngest of six brothers who served and the only one who did not return. I was at school with the Hollis twins (Fred and Bob; the latter unfortunately died as a result of a cycling accident while still at school). They were brothers- in-law of Gunner J.A. Huntbach, who died fighting the Vichy French in Syria, and brothers of Sgt. J.H. (nicknamed "Mansh" as in Mansion polish) Hollis, who was shot down and killed over Holland. One of the "lost youth of Bomber Command". I was also at school with Jack Shirley's niece, Mollie Robertson, and knew her late husband, Bill, from my time at theTriumph. I also remember Leading Stoker Brett's daughter as a baby, when she and her mother lived in Whichcote Avenue with her grandparents.

The article on Jack Savage also evoked some memories. Although I only knew Jack slightly, I believe that Tom, who was one of the first tenants in the new bungalows in Digby Place, when I lived in Whichcote Avenue as a child, was his brother. It did, however, remind me of the "two Johns" who used to judge flower shows together. John Penrice was Headmaster in my early years at Meriden school and I also have fond memories of Mrs. Higton, Miss Horsman, Mrs. "Marzie" Jenkins (allegedly because she used to give sweets to her pupils; presumably before rationing), and Mr. "Baggy" Jones (allegedly because he used to wear "plus-fours").

I have many happy memories of "Johnnie" Greaves, latterly as a chorister, when he used to hand round Meloids, out of a tin, during the sermon, making quite a noise doing so. During the Second World War, when it was difficult to go away for holidays, I used to spend a great deal of them with him in the Hall gardens, for which he paid me a few coppers. By that time, he and George Grist were the sole survivors of the gardening staff. One of my favourite experiences was when I used to walk with him, particularly when there was snow on the ground, to lubricate a water wheel down by the Giants' Den, which used to pump spring water up to a tank (which always looked to me like a boat house) at the top of the Hilly Fields, to provide pressure for the Hall.

Best Regards, Mike Callow Treetops, Kenn, Clevedon, BS21 6TT email leslie30@tiscali.co.uk

Painting With Julie Spring is finally here at last and what is the first flower we think of in spring? The daffodil of course!

Here is one way of painting the daffodil: -

•

Draw out the shape of a daffodil on to watercolour paper. Practice a few first, looking at how the stem turns into the trumpet of the flower and the petals stick out around the edge. (Or you can copy the one I have drawn.)

•

When you are happy with your drawing mix two little puddles of yellow watercolour paint, one stronger than the other.

•

Wet one petal or area of the flower at a time, with clean water. Add touches of the yellow colours, adding the stronger colour in the shadowy areas and on the trumpet. Try to leave little patches without paint on, so that they stay white, in places where the petals would catch the light

•

Make sure you only do one petal at a time, letting the one you have just painted dry before painting the area next to it.

•

Add a little yellow to the flower bud

•

Mix a puddle of a blue colour. Make this with lots of water so it is very pale. Paint this on to all the shadowy areas of the leaves. Let this dry.

•

Mix a puddle of paint using yellow and blue to make green. Paint this all over the leaves including over the pale blue shadows you have just put on.

•

Add a few streaks of brown to the flower sheath

•

Add two or three dots of brown in the centre of the trumpet for the stamens.

•

If you want to add a border, carefully measure in from the edges of the paper and lightly draw the border with a pencil. When you are happy that it’s in the right place go over it with a green crayon.

WE CARE FOR YOUR TREES PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGEONS TO BRITISH STANDARDS 3998 FORESTRY TRAINING COUNCIL APPROVED FULL LIABILITY INSURANCE UP TO £5 MILLION FELLING PRUNING HEDGE TRIMMING STUMP REMOVAL CROWN REDUCTION & THINNING CABLE BRACING & PINNING PLANTING OFFERING A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE BUILT OVER MANY YEARS TO ENSURE A PROFESSIONAL & EXPERT SERVICE. FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE PLEASE CALL:

DUNNS TREE SERVICES 12, Okehampton Road Styvechale, Coventry CV3 5AU Tel: 024 7641 3768 Mob: 07719 005747 Website: www.dunnstreeservices.co.uk

Art Classes with Julie Hyde in Meriden Julie’s Art Classes take place on Thursday mornings and afternoons in the Village Hall Meriden. She also has classes on other days in different locations.

Contact Julie on 01676 523357 for more details L A R C H T R E E O S T E O P A T H IC P R A C T IC E TREATM EN T O F M U SC ULAR AN D S K E L E T A L P A IN , S P O R T S A N D P E R S O N A L IN J U R IE S L ia m H a lto n B .S c (H o n s ) O s t.

4 9 L a rc h T re e A v e n u e , (O ff B ro a d L a n e ), T ile H ill, CO VENTR Y, CV4 9FT

w w w .la rc h tre e o s t.c o .u k TEL: 024 7647 0019

The public and press are cordially invited to all meetings in the Village Hall at 7.30pm. An opportunity will be given for the public to speak. Look out for the Agenda, which is posted on the parish notice boards prior to the meeting.

SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING th Wednesday 11 March th Wednesday 15 April Wdnesday13th May

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING rd Monday 23 March (Annual Parish Meeting) th Monday 27 April (Annual Parish Council Meeting)

Should you wish to contact your Parish Council please contact the Clerk or individual Councillors through the website: Mrs J Hall 111 Fillongley Road Meriden Coventry CV7 7LW

Tel : 01676 522727 Email : juliehall.mpc@btinternet.com Website : meridenparishcouncil.org.uk

Your Parish Councillors are: Rosie Weaver (Chair); Bob Kipling (Vice Chair); Graeme Goodsir; Shirley Goodsir; Marilyn Hamilton; Melanie Lee; Sarah Markham; Will Markham.

1

BUS SERVICES – ALL CHANGE A new Solihull Network of bus services has now been launched with many of the services having been replaced with new ones. There is no change to the 900 or taxibus service serving Meriden village but the 192 and 194 services are being withdrawn to be replaced by the 19W and 19X service from Coventry, which is operating on a similar hourly basis. There is still no evening connection to Solihull town centre. Caroline Spelman is taking up with the operator, National Express the idea of a later bus running from Solihull to Meriden.

2

COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH Thank you to all those residents who have volunteered for the Community Speed Watch initiative. We need more, please contact the Clerk. The police will be carrying out speed tests on the Fillongley Road, Main Road (Meriden and Millison’s Wood) and Hampton Lane. Training will take place soon.

3

PRECEPT 2009 / 2010.

The Parish Precept for 2009 / 2010 has been set at £53,157. This is a 3% increase on the precept for 2008/2009 and creates an increase of £1 per annum for Band D property.

4

PLANNING APPLICATIONS The Solihull MBC website, www.solihull.gov.uk enables anybody to access information relating to planning applications. You can view the weekly planning list of new applications, all documentation relating to individual applications, decision notices etc. From the home page select “Planning Services” from the quicklinks on the left. Then select “Development Control and Planning Applications”. If you do not have access to a computer at home, the computers in the library can be used. Please ask the library staff for more information.

5

MAXSTOKE LAND AND HAMPTON LANE DEVELOPMENT We have received a press statement from Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and David Wilson Homes, which has been printed within this Mag. The proposed timetable has been given to us and the Parish Council will ensure there will be a public consultation in Meriden prior to the planning application being submitted.

6

MERIDEN POND

You may have noticed recently the temporary drainage and subsequent investigations into the condition of the Pool. The findings will inform a funding bid for repair and refurbishment works. The fish are being saved and stored and will be returned to the pool in due course.

The following press statement has been received from Solihull Borough Council and David Wilson Homes.

“Solihull Council is pleased to confirm that it has recently exchanged contracts with David Wilson Homes, part of the Barratt Group.

Working with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and Meriden Parish Council, David Wilson Homes are pleased to be helping create a range of new recreation facilities on land at Hampton Lane and subject to obtaining planning approval, build an exciting new housing development on the existing Maxstoke Lane playing field site”.

David Wilson Homes anticipates applying for planning permission for the residential site at Maxstoke Lane in May. Before this there will be a public consultation in Meriden that everyone can attend.

In the meantime, preliminary works will start on the playing field in readiness for the main works to be carried out. Once the playing field is completed, David Wilson will be able to start work on the residential development at Maxstoke Lane.”

EXPECTED TIMETABLE January 2009 April 2009 May 2009 March 2010 March 2011 May 2011

Preliminary works on the recreation site.

Public Consultation for residents of Meriden and surrounding areas.

Planning application submitted for residential site at Maxstoke Lane Recreation facility works commence.

Completion of the new recreation facilities.

Commencement of Residential Site at Maxstoke Lane

Police Surgeries Neighbourhood Police will be attending surgeries at Meriden Library on Mondays- 16th March, 20th April & 18th May between 10.00am and noon

Golden Years Social Club Corley We meet on the last Tuesday in the month from 2.00pm onwards at Corley Village Hall, Church Lane, Corley.

For a yearly subscription of £10 our members get afternoon tea each month and three outings a year, lots of companionship and other social events.

Why not come along and join us?

We already have several members from Meriden and would welcome more Please contact Sheila on 02476 460 642 if you would like to know more

Bogus Officials have been reported to be operating in and around the area On the 14.01.09 an incident took place where 2 persons claiming to be from SKY approached a house in Dorridge and were allowed entry. The homeowner was deceived into signing a form and allowing their credit card to be swiped by a hand held card device. Money has since been debited from that account.

Please be vigilant and be sure toHall check all ID's beforeRoad, allowing anyone into your Clerk : Julie – 111 Fillongley Meriden, Coventry, CV7home.

7LW If you are approached by any oneTelephone that claims to be 522727 a SKY agent anyone that you feel is acting in a suspicious : 01676 Emailor: juliehall.mpc@btinternet.com manner please call the police on 0845 1135000 or in an emergency dial 999. www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk

Meriden Parish Appraisal and Plan First successes On 26th January, Rosie Weaver, Chair of Meriden Parish Council, and Iain Roxburgh, Chair of the Meriden Parish Appraisal Steering Group made a presentation of the results of the Parish Household Survey Questionnaire. A dedicated Community Support Officer for Meriden and Millison’s Wood is one of the promises made by the Police, Solihull Borough Council and other agencies represented on the day.

Here is a further excerpt of what they promised: •

• • • • •

Will look to improve our local provision of police staff for the Meriden area. Deploying a Police Community Support Officer to the village as soon as we can recruit to the role.

In order to build relationships and communication we will review our times/dates of our consultation events to ensure we reach out to as large an audience as possible.

Make sure named officers are allocated to the village.

We will support work to close the gap between young peoples’ behaviour and older peoples’ perception.

Officer to make visits to school on a regular basis.

Examine whether “Speedwatch” volunteers can give out parking advice outside schools – also additional patrols at school open/close times to address parking issues.

The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor David Bell, hosted the event at Solihull Civic Centre, with high level participation by the Borough Council, the local police commander, the Chair of Solihull Care Trust, Centro, the bus companies and the Warwickshire Rural Communities Council.

All participants promised to work with us in preparing the Parish Plan and in addressing many of the issues and challenges we have already identified in the Appraisal. Working in theme groups, we are aiming to complete the Plan by the summer.

More volunteers are always welcome. Just phone or e-mail Iain Roxburgh on 01676 522496 or IainRoxburgh@btinternet.com.

PUTTING THE HEART INTO THE CENTRE OF ENGLAND

Poems from Year 5 Meriden School ‘Inspire’workshop Some were Haiku- brief and with syllables carefully counted; some were Kennings giving clues to the creature they described.

Forest (Thomas C and Mum) The tall canopy Vistas of falling cascades Water becoming mist.

Predator (Emily S and Dad) Camouflage disguise Teeth like knives Eyes like fire Deadly claws.

Supreme hunter (Andrew B and Mum) I am the eagle So swift and powerful King of the blue sky.

As coarse as sandpaper Footsteps in the crunching leaves Scents all around.

Tropical Hunter (Ellie R and Mum) A forest of mist The smells of a hunter’s fire Fish still. River alive.

Forest dweller (Darcie and Dad) Monkeys hanging high Screaming, prancing, playful joy A tree for a home.

Colourful sight (Amy B and Mum) Butterflies flutter Like petals flying by me Over waterfalls.

EXOTIC THAI w

DEE IS AT QUEENS HEAD PUB OLD ROAD MERIDEN Exotic Thai cuisine cooked in the traditional Thai Way

OPEN 5 days a week Tuesday to Saturday Food can be ordered between the following times: Tuesday – Thursday 7.00pm till 10.00pm (closing) Friday – Saturday 7.00pm till 10.30pm (closing)

Book in advance to avoid disappointment 01676 523740 (6.00pm till 9.30pm) The management reserves the right of admission

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust Spring events at Parkridge Centre Brueton Park Solihull Saturday 7th March Wildlife Watch Family Day- Human Bug Art !

10.00am – 12pm & 1.00pm – 3.00pm Join us as we paint big bug bodies for you and your friends to fashion. Remember to bring your camera along! Search the reserve for bug inspiration.

FREE to Watch members £4 per child for non-WWT members Saturday 14th March Nuts about Nature Club – Ponds 9.00am – 11.00am. Please pre-book Cost £3 per child £4 for non WWT members Monday 6th – Friday 10th April 10.00am – 12pm & 1.00pm – 3.00pm. Children’s Workshops Lots of different sessions throughout the school holidays, there’s a different theme everyday including Easter Egg decorating, Easter cards, life in the undergrowth, scrap heap challenge, brilliant birds and woodland explorers £3 per child £4 for non WWT members Saturday 11th April Nuts about NatureClub - Birds 9.00am – 11.00am. Please pre-book Cost £3 per child £4 for non WWT members Wednesday Mornings Term time only 10.30 – 12.00pm “Toddler Trundle” £2.50 per accompanied child, includes some outdoor activity, please ring to book

Monday 13th – Friday 17th April 10.00am – 12pm & 1.00pm –3.00pm Children’s Workshops.

Lots of different sessions throughout the school holidays, there’s a different theme everyday including Easter egg decorating, Easter cards, life in the undergrowth, scrap heap challenge, Brilliant birds and woodland explorers £3 per child £4 for non WWT members Monday 25th- Friday 29th May 10.00am until 12pm & 1.00pm until 3.00pm Children’s Workshops.

A huge selection of workshops throughout the week, a different activity each day including peek in the pond, folklore and fairytales, marvellous mayflies and flights of fancy. £3 per child £4 for non WWT members

To book any of these events please call

0121 704 0768 Similar events take place at Brandon Marsh Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry For details of these please phone 02476 302 912

ONE OF THE UK’S LARGEST DISTRIBUTORS OF PLASTIC BUILDING MATERIALS • MULTIWALL POLYCARBONATE SHEETS • GLAZING BARS & ACCESSORIES • DECORATIVE WALL CLADDING & SHOWER PANELS • UPVC FASCIA, SOFFITS, SKIRTING & ARCHITRAVE • CORRUGATED PVC, GRP & POLYCARBONATE ROOFING SHEETS • GUTTERING & DOWNPIPES - SQUARE & ROUND • CUT TO SIZE ACRYLIC & POLYCARBONATE SHEETS • DECORATIVE COVING & CORNICE • HYGIENIC WALL & CEILING LININGS • DYNOTILE - CLIP TOGETHER GARAGE FLOORING

IS IS RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP!!

RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP!!

Main Road, Meriden, CV7 7NH - Tel: 01676 522224 Opening Hours - Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat Morning 9am-12pm

WWW.ROCKWELL- MERIDEN.CO.UK ONE OF THE UK’S LARGEST DISTRIBUTORS OF

General Handyman Now available for minor household maintenance and repairs

Tone Up, Lose Weight & Inches, Reduce Stress And Feel Great!!

Enjoy Personal Fitness Training, Pilates or an Aromatherapy Massage in the comfort of your own home or in our local fully equipped studio.

For more information and to book your Free 30 Minute Consultation to find out how we can help you reach your health and fitness goals, please contact: Nikki: 07786 548 828 or Email: discoverfitness@hotmail.co.uk

Carpentry and joinery Flat packs Cleaning PVC goods and conservatories Painting and decorating Electrical repairs Glazing Wall tiling Gardening and paving

Phone Paul Telephone: 0121 764 5872 Mobile 07979 064835

Are you having trouble managing your debts?

Or need help negotiating repayment of your debts with those you owe money to?

If you are, get professional advice from an independent agency that will not charge for their services.

Useful contacts: Solihull Community Housing Money Advice for Council Tenants or anyone in real need.

0121 717 1515 Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Solihull 0121 705 2212 Shirley 0121 744 3238 Chelmsley Wood 0121 779 6707 Chelmsley Advice and Resource Agency (CARA) 0121 770 3773 National Debt Helpline 0808 808 4000

Spend time with me……… and change the way you think of exercise…… exercise 3 Ways to help you enjoy your recreation and improve your times

• •

Circuit Training Tai Chi

• Shiatsu Shiatsu Therapy Balance your workouts with Ernie & Anne ernieernie-boxall@yahoo.co.uk 01676 521393 07962 216833 Register of Exercise Professionals, Fitness Professionals Diploma of Shiatsu Therapists

Age Concern is available to assist in money advice for those over 50 and is aware of specialist issues for the elderly, including care bills 0121 705 9128

Business Debtline is available to provide confidential debt advice to small businesses 0800 1976026 For more information on money advice, possible benefit entitlement and tips to help you make your money count for you, visit www.solihull.gov.uk/moneycounts Solihull Borough produces a very helpful leaflet with more detailed information called

“Money Counts Top 10 Tips.”

Contact Solihull MBC on 0121 704 8100 or collect from Solihull Connect Centre by the Library in Touchwood Centre

COUNDON JOINERY (est 1980) Custom made joinery to order Windows For single and Doors Double glazed Storm porches Front and Back Gates Garage doors etc.

In hardwood or softwood, supplied only or supplied/fitted And general joinery Rose arches and pergolas made to order Contact us at

Telephone 024 7663 9109 Based at Russells Garden Centre Mill Lane Baginton Coventry

Get cycling this spring!

Cyclesolihull, the volunteer-led initiative to encourage more cycling in the borough, is launching a new programme of rides, which will continue throughout the spring and summer. Last year nearly 900 people joined over forty Community Cycle Rides, which are based on the simple idea of people just turning up and choosing to ride together. Ride co-ordinator Stephen Holt hopes that even more people will discover the rides this year “The rides are for anyone who would like to get out and about on a bike for a couple of hours with a few other like-minded people. The rides are particularly suited to relatively new cyclists and families who have children who are getting used to cycling on quiet roads”.

In 2009 there will be a number of different types of rides. Sunday Cycle Rides will take place most weekends from April and will be between 10 and 20 miles long depending on which of the 19 Cyclesolihull routes is being cycled.

Evening Explorer Rides will be about 10 miles long and take place alternate Wednesdays during the lighter months. Occasional five mile Taster Rides will give people the opportunity to sample the rides without having to go very far. For more experienced cyclists there are also monthly Saturday Stretcher Rides which are 20-25 miles long but with no fixed route.

Stephen wants to encourage as many people as possible to join in. “Cycling is a great way of bringing together people of all ages. It is great fun, good for your health and, as an added bonus, all the rides are free!”

Full and up-to-date details of all Cyclesolihull rides including the remaining winter rides in March are available at

www.cyclesolihull.org.uk A Riders Tale...

The Cyclesolihull rides provide me with the motivation to get some fresh air and exercise. It is all-to-easy to find excuses to put off going cycling - but there’s an incentive in having a fixed date for a ride and you know that the group will be meeting up. I joined quite a few of the rides in 2008 and am looking forward to taking part in more this year, especially as the summer weather arrives.

The company is good – a mix of people who all share at least a small interest in cycling, but are not ‘lycra clad racers’ – there is always someone to chat to whilst riding along and at the refreshment! I’ve also picked up a few handy hints on cycling and on equipment from some of the other riders, and learned about the existence of some traffic-free cycle routes near Cyclesolihull riders in Meriden summer 2008 Solihull town centre.

Another advantage of going on the organised rides is that someone else has the responsibility to find the way. It's pleasant to be able to spend time looking at the scenery, rather than battling with an Ordnance Survey map. There are some hidden gems of villages in the countryside just outside Solihull which are all too easily missed when travelling by car, but which I now enjoy exploring by cycle. The Cyclesolihull routes visit many of these places, and have been carefully planned to take advantage of quiet lanes and so offer fun and stress-free cycling.

Sarah, Solihull Rides in April & May

Women on Wheels Cycling in Britain often seem to be done primarily by men but in countries where cycling is just a normal way of getting around, the ladies are often in the majority!

Cyclesolihull would particularly like to see more women coming on the rides. “Typically about one third of the riders are female but we would like to get that to 50%! Once women discover the rides they often become some of the most enthusiastic riders and don’t seem to be put off by the rain as much as the men !

Route Str Tstr S1 M1 S2 Str Tstr L1 S3 M2 S4 S5 M3

Start point Brueton Park Warwick Rd Dickens Heath Library Dorridge Rail station Shirley Park behind Aldi Knowle parish church Dickens Heath library Cheswick Green shops Balsall common Library Cath de Barnes Boat Inn Bentley Heath park car park Dickens Heath Library Meriden The Green Hockley Heath Post Office

Date Sat 4 April Sun 5 April Sun 12 April Sun 19 April Sun 26 April Sat 2 May Mon 4 May Sun 10 May Wed 13 May Sun 17 May Sun 24 May Wed 27 May Sun 31 May

Time 10am 2pm 2pm 2pm 2pm 10am 2pm 2pm 7pm 2pm 2pm 7pm 2pm

Miles 20-25 5 9 15 9 20-25 5 20 9 16 9 10 17

Parade Dry Cleaners 180, Station Road, Balsall Common

Carpet Cleaner Hire now available

01676 534444 For all your dry cleaning and laundry requirements

We now sell Dry cleaning tights, Alterations watch Curtains Quilts batteries etc Bedding Wedding gowns Laundry Service Key cutting and shoe repair service

Parade Dry Cleaners

4 items 10% off any cleaned for item £14.99

with with this this voucher voucher

Branches Throughout the Midlands Head Office and Factory - Garretts Green 0121 786 1792

Steve’s Industries Ltd • Tree Surgery

• Hedge cutting • Lawn Mowing • Turfing •

Spring tidy Ups

Supplying Lawn Turf, Logs and Wood chippings

Tel:01564770560 www.stevesindustries.co.uk

Suit counts as 2 items

S&J Plastering Services • Over skimming • Dry lining • Over boarding • Rendering • Stud walling • Arches • All plastering requirements

Members of the Guild of Master Craftsmen For a free quotation call 01676 523501 Mobile 07976 952004

STRAWBERRY BANK HOTEL & RESTAURANT The next

Special lunchtime deal 2 Main Courses for£9.95 Tuesday to Friday Special evening deal 2 main courses for £11.95 Monday to Friday

Special Mother’s Day Menu call 01676 522117 for details

Ideal setting for a family reunion whether a wedding, anniversary, christening or funeral.

Set in beautiful gardens, we cater for small or large parties in the restaurant or our two Function suites.

Licensed for Civil Ceremonies.

Visit our website for more information or come along to see us.

Our restaurant serves A La Carte English and continental menus, as well as a 3 course Dinner Menu from £16.95 Monday – Friday £17.95 Saturday £15.95 for three course Sunday Lunch

www.strawberrybank.co.uk Telephone: 01676 522117 Email: enquiries@strawberrybank.co.uk Main Road, Meriden, Coventry CV7 7NF

Don’t forget the Meriden Mag has its own web site, where you can view back issues or friends and relatives not in the area can catch up on local news

www.meridenmag.co.uk

National Blood Service

0845 771 1711

The next session for blood donors will be Thursday April 23rd at the Heart of England Social Club 1.30-3.30pm & 4.30-7.30pm Appointments available by calling 0845 771 1711

GO AND LEARN UK EARN MONEY FROM SPARE ROOMS IN YOUR HOME

Lavender Hall Lane Berkswell

Provide Short term Accommodation To a Foreign Student GOALUK brings foreign English Language Students for summer courses within the UK

01676 530 299 / 07949 119 436

JOIN US AS A HOMESTAY PARTNER Want to know more?

Telephone: 0751 305 3949 0798 423 7730 Fax: 0151 707 9625 Email: dariusz.broc@gmail.com * Please note all applications need to be in by 28.03.09

Cafe open to the public from 8.00am – 2.00pm daily 7 days a week Serving hot and cold food Specialising in an all day breakfast for £3.90!

5 fishing lakes in glorious countryside Now selling a complete range of baits Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk

A Coventry Way Challenge 2009 This year the Challenge event will be held on Sunday 5th April.

Many of you will know that this will be the annual Challenge event, and that in all previous years it was held on the first Sunday in September.

The change of date has a number of advantages:

Checkpoint at Brinklow

•

Avoids clashing with the many other events held in September.

•

The above leads to improving the chances of attracting more entries.

•

April is the school holiday period. Anne Wade will be contacting local schools to attract younger entrants.

•

Whilst the weather and daylight hours are similar, the growth season of unwanted vegetation will not be fully underway.

After the first ever “wet” event in September 2008, we hope that April 2009 will be dry and sunny, with the snow not too deep (On 6th April 2008 it snowed in Meriden!)

Participants start from Meriden village hall. Most Walkers start at 6:00am, most Runners at 9:00 or 10:00 and most relay teams at 11:00 – but others start at times in between, the most important requirement being that they finish the 40-mile route back to Meriden by 21:00! Some people take part in less challenging ways, ranging from a short walk (such as Walk 21), or just part of the 40-mile route (then returning another year to do the rest).

The fastest runner to complete the 40-mile route took 5hrs 22mins – in 1999. When Tom Swift's Grandfather Ken completed the 40 miles in 2004, Ken, Mark and Tom achieved a first for three generations of one family to have completed the 40 miles. One person who was blind has run the route. Maybe you would like to try and beat those!

However the main reason for taking up the challenge in one form or another is to get some enjoyable exercise in good company. If you would like to participate, please join us. See our website at www.acoventryway.org.uk or phone Bob Carey on 024 7645 5251 for details.

If participating in such a challenge is not your cup of tea, then come along to Meriden village hall at any time between 6:00am and 9:00pm to watch, support those who are taking up the challenge, or maybe even have a cup of tea.

ACWA members will be available most of the day (just wait a few minutes if they are all frantically sorting out a crowd about to start, or welcoming participants returning triumphant), and can give you any information you need about A Coventry Way.

ZOE’S MARKET

Spring Fayre Plants cards cakes chocolates jewellery leather goods books childrens lucky dip Aloe vera products refreshments

Saturday March 14th 10.00am-4.00pm RC Church Meeting House Lane Balsall Common 6 Balsall Common ladies will be cycling from home to Paris in aid of 6 different charities, this event is to support the charities.

3,The Green, Meriden 01676522822 Vegetables Fruit Pet Foods Fresh Farm Eggs Fresh Fish delivered every Thursday, orders welcome Frozen Fish always in stock

Tree of Thought 2008

The Farm Shop Berkswell Traditional Farmstead Meats Larges Farm Back Lane Meriden Tel & fax 01676 522409 www.farmsteadmeats.co.uk For meats of outstanding quality & flavour • • • • • • • •

Fresh Turkeys, geese, cockerels and ducks Licensed to sell Game All cuts of beef including beef on the bone Superb home made sausages & burgers Free Range Chickens Famous Berkswell Ewes Milk Cheese Traditional pork with real crackling Real home cured bacon

Warwickshire’s only accredited traditional breeds butcher Listed as one of Rick Stein’s “Food Heroes”

Phil Tuckey “The Country Butcher”

Opening Hours Monday –closed Tuesday to Saturday 9.00am-5.00pm Sunday 9.00am-1.00pm

Why do banks charge a fee on “insufficient funds” when they already know there is not enough money?

I can advise that the Tree raised £2,310 for Macmillan Cancer Support, which, allowing for the financial circumstances being faced by everyone is an excellent achievement.

My sincere thanks go to all the individuals who once again supported such a worthwhile cause. In view of the pressures with which they are confronted, the contributions made by our local businesses and other organisations were appreciated more than ever.

Acknowledgements go to:- Lord and Lady Aylesford, DeMulder Enterprises, Rockwell, Cassidy Developments, N.E. Hawthorne and Son, Groundwork Cov and Warks, Cogent Elliot, Paul Ryan, Centre Charity Shop Spar Shop.

Sadly, as was all too apparent, the tree itself was not a good specimen. Unfortunately, I wasn’t aware of this until it was too late. Woods Farm were most apologetic and agreed to cancel the invoice. They have assured me absolute care will be taken with next year’s tree.I thank them for their response. The money that the tree would have cost was included in the amount raised.

Dedication Day was enjoyed by all; it is a joy to see the enthusiasm of the participating children. Thanks go to Carol Maclure, Rev Dawkins, Ron Potter, and Clive Jones who looked after the electrical side and Steve’s Industries.

Also thanks to the village businesses that displayed dedication forms and had counter collections.

I am still awaiting the figure collected by the Wishing Well at Notcutts, which will be passed on to Macmillan.

Believe me, I am deeply aware of the amazing work done by the Macmillan Nurses and I am absolutely certain that the Meriden Tree helps to fulfill a true need.

Thank-you Alan Lole Organiser.

A. PETTIFOR & SON LTD Warehousing & Distribution SELF Now available STORAGE For home and business 10ft &20ft (600&1200 cubic ft) CONTAINERS Lockable containerised units Easy access with your own personal key Drive direct to your clean and dry unit 10ft Containers from £17 per week 20ft Containers from £28 per week Discounts available for longer periods Berkswell Road, Meriden, Coventry CV7 7LB Tel: 01676 522403 Mob: 07917518724 Fax: 01676 523181 Email: info@pettifortransport.co.uk

Village Diary DATE

EVENT

VENUE

TIME

CONTACT

2nd March 3rd March

WI Rotary Celebrity Evening

Village Hall Manor Hotel

7.30pm 7.30pm

Joan Russell 522666 Jane Maugham 01827 68271

6th March

Methodist Church

2.00pm

11th March 11th March 16th March 16th March 19th March 20th March 22nd March 23rd March 27th March 29th March

Women’s World Day of Prayer Parish Council meeting Readers Circle Flower Club Community Surgery Cricket Club Quiz Night Firs Coffee Morning Mothering Sunday Service Parish Council Meeting CAMEO Clocks go forward

Village Hall Village Hall Library Queen’s Head Pub Jubilee Centre B.C. Methodist Church Village Hall Community Centre

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 10.00am 8.00pm 10.00- 12 noon 10.30am 7.30pm 2.00pm

Rev Andrew Charlesworth 533737 Julie Hall 522727 Sue Fuller 522721 Sandra Jones 523023 522717 Mike 07775 567889 Malcolm Gratton 523505 Rev Charlesworth 533737 Julie Hall 522727 Ellen 522534

3rd April 3rd April

Black Country Evening Easter Service

H of E Club Meriden School

7.30pm 9.10am

Mary Warr 522160 Mrs Smith 522488

5th April

Palm Sunday Service

Methodist Church

10.30am

Rev Charlesworth 533737

5th April 6th April 7th April 7th April 8th April 9th April 9th April

Coventry Challenge Walk W.I. Firs Trip to Windsor Cricket Club nets practice Readers Circle Coffee morning Maundy Service

Village Hall Village Hall

Library Methodist Church

6.00pm 7.30pm 10.00-12 noon 6.00pm

10th April 12th April

St. Laurence Church Methodist Church

12 noon 10.30am

15th April 15th April 17th April 20th April 20th April 23rd April

Good Friday Devotion Easter Day Service Holy Communion Parish Council Meeting Supper Club Firs Coffee Morning Flower Club Community Surgery Blood Donors

Village Hall Methodist Church Jubilee Centre B.C. Village Hall Library H of E Club

24th April 26th April 27th April 2nd May 5th May 6th May 10th May 13th May 13th May 15th May 17th May 18th May 18th May 20th May 22nd May 27th May

CAMEO Bluebell Walk Parish Council Meeting Variety Show Meriden Mag Deadline W I (note Wednesday) Knowle Fun Run Readers Circle Parish Council Firs Coffee Morning Cyclists Service Flower Club Community Surgery W I Group Meeting CAMEO Cyclesolihull ride

Community Centre Millison’s Wood Village Hall Methodist Church

7.30pm 7.00pm 10.00- 12 noon 7.30pm 10.00am 1.30 – 3.30pm & 4.30 – 7.30pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 7.30pm 7.00pm

Village Hall

7.30pm

Village Hall Jubilee Centre B.C. Village Green Village Hall Library Allesley Village Hall Community Centre Village Green

7.30pm 7.30pm 10.00- 12 noon 11.00am 7.30pm 10.00am 2.30pm 2.00pm 7.00pm

Queens Head

7.30pm

Bob Carey 02476 455251 Joan Russell 522666 Frank Byrne 02476 713662 Mike 07775 567889 Sue Fuller 522721 522717 Rev Andrew Charlesworth 533737 Rev Dawkins 522719 Rev Andrew Charlesworth 533737 Julie Hall 522727 Maureen Gabbitas 522148 Malcolm Gratton 523505 Sandra Jones 523023 522717 0845 771 1711 Ellen 522534 Julie Hall 522727 Marion Theobold 523475 522963 or 522453 Joan Russell 522666 Simon Newell 07770641027 Sue Fuller 522721 Julie Hall 522727 Malcolm Gratton 523505 Rev Dawkins 522719 Sandra Jones 523023 522717 Joan Russell 522666 Ellen 522534

Out and About this Spring Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens These interesting Gardens in Castle Bromwich were sadly neglected and lost beneath a mass of tangled vegetation. In 1985 a trust was established to restore the gardens back to their former magnificence.

The period of restoration is set at 1680-1740 with historically correct plants now established. An added feature is The Holly Maze, which is based on the design at Hampton Court.

The Gardens are easily accessible by car from Meriden on the B4118 Chester Road.

Open Weekend afternoons in March April to October Tuesday – Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays Admission Charge Special Events Easter Event Saturday 11th April 1-4.30pm Stalls, Children’s entertainer and Hat Parade Morris Minor Club Rally Sunday 26th April Rare Plant Sale Sunday 3rd May Children’ Fun Day Sunday 24th May *Coffee Shop * Gift shop* Plant Sales *Free Guided Tours * Group Visits The Knowle Fun Run Sunday May 10th The website, www.KnowleFunRun.org.uk is now open for entries for this year’s 5-mile run and children’s mini runs on Sunday 10th May. This year’s charities are Macmillan, Whizz-Kidz, Lions Sight First ll as well as local causes.

Easter Egg Trails at Baddesley Clinton on Sunday 12th April and Packwood House on Monday 13th April 11.30am-3.30pm (£3 per trail)

What’s on at the NEC Sewing For Pleasure and Hobbycrafts 12-15 March National Home Building & Renovating 19-22 March British Open Show Jumping Championships 16-19 April Gadget Show Live 17-19 April

Spring Flowers

Bluebell Walk at Millison’s Wood Sunday 26th April at 2.00pm.

It’s a fantastic sight, a carpet of bluebells come and join the Park Ranger and see for yourself.

And finally don’t forget the wonderful display of Daffodils at Baddesley Clinton

Rotary Club of Meriden

2009 The Meriden Festival will start on the weekend May 16th –17th with the Cyclist’s Service on The Green at 11.00am on the Sunday.

Other events include The Centre Celebration on the Green on Saturday June 13th and Jazz by the Lake is also planned for June.

More details in the Summer Mag. Or contact David Maugham 01827 68271

Don’t forget to put your clock forward one hour on Sunday 29th March When contacting advertisers please mention The Meriden Mag Reminder!! Deadline date for the summer issue (Out by 1stJune) Tuesday 5th May 2009 Val Martin 174 Main Road, Meriden 01676 522963 val.simon@virgin.net Margaret Argyle 3 The Croft, Meriden 01676 522453 margaret.argyle@mattargyle.com Treasurer: Adele Fox 16 James Dawson Drive Meriden Deliveries: Mandy & Doug Bacon Proof Reader: Claire Rose

Celebrity Evening The Manor Hotel Tuesday 3rd March 7.30pm Speakers Bruce Grobbelaar,ex Liverpool Goalkeeper and Steve Tandy comedian Tickets priced at £20 to include 3-course dinner Available from Jane Maugham 01827 68271

Proceeds will go to the President’s Charity The DebRA appeal News from the Post Office Postage Price Rise from 6th April Standard letter rates will be:1st class 39p 2nd class 30p Congratulations to Sue and Reg Harper who are celebrating 25 years at Meriden Post Office in May BICKENHILL PUBLIC WASTE DISPOSAL SITE OPENING HOURS st st Winter 1 November – 31 March Monday – Friday 8.00am – 6.00pm Saturday & Sunday 8.00am - 4.00pm st

Summer 1 April – 31st October Monday – Friday 8.00am – 8.00pm Saturday & Sunday 8.00am – 4.00pm Last admission 15 minutes before closing time

MAG ADVERTISING RATES Useful Village Contact Numbers Meriden Primary School Meriden Library Meriden Surgery Lloyds Chemist St. Laurence Church Meriden Methodist Church

Mrs. J. Smith

Meriden Christian Fellowship

Pstr. Kevin & Lyn Hunt Julie Hall (Clerk) Pat Delaney

Parish Council Community Centre Warden Solihull M B C District Councillors

Member of Parliament Boy Scouts Group Cricket Club Post Office Rural Police Sector

Rev.Michael Dawkins Rev. Andrew Charlesworth

Ken Allsopp David Bell Dr. Peter Lea Caroline Spelman Gerry Russell Mike Gallagher Sue Harper WPC Sharon Williams

01676 522488 01676 522717 01676 522252 01676 522722 01676 522719 01676 533737 01676 523050 01676 522727 01676 522867 0121 704 6000 0121 782 2408 01676 535211 01676 532577 020 7219 4189 01676 522666 01676 521085 01676 522230 0845 113 5000

Eighth Page £8.50 Quarter Page £17.00 Half page £34.00 Small ads (sale or wanted) £3.00 Charity & Community information & events FREE Views expressed by the Contributors are not necessarily those of the Co-editors We are unable to print anonymous Letters or articles although we will withhold name and address on request