June Festival Fair and June Festival Fair and June Festival June Festival Centre Celebrations Centre Celebrations Centre Celebrations Centre Celebrations
On the Green
10.30am – 3.00pm Games and activities
Stalls, Face Painting
Outreach bus
Charity auction cream teas at the Centre
Organised by Heart of England Heart of England Heart of England Heart of England Outreach Outreach
Come along and join the fun
Come along and join the fun
Come along join the Come along join the
Organised by the Rotary Club of Meriden the Club
Wednesday 18 Wednesday 18
Fun afternoon Fun
For accompanied pre-school children
At Meriden Methodist Nursery, Main Rd
1.00 - 4.00pm
£3 per adult
Open Gardens Open Gardens in aid of Cancer Research
11.00am – 5.00pm
Tickets £2.50 from Lavender House (next to Village Hall)
For
National Festival Circus National Festival Circus
Meriden School
4.00pm, 5.30pm and 7.00pm tickets £4 for children and OAP’s £6 for adults
available from the School or Meriden Library, stalls and fun activities for all the family
Sunday 22 Sunday 22 Sunday Sunday
Open Air Service Open Air Service Open Air Service Open Air Service
The Preacher’s Tree, Kinwalsey Lane
Meet at 2.30pm to walk from the Village Green or 4.00pm at the Tree Tea afterwards.
Organised by the Methodist Church
STRAWBERRY BANK HOTEL
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.
Our restaurant serves A La Carte English and continental menus, as well as a 3 course Dinner Menu from £15.95 Monday –Friday
£16.95 Saturday
£15.95 Sunday Lunch for three courses
NEW
From £3.95 to £6.95
In restaurant lounge Tuesday to Friday Lunch & Evening
Licensed for Civil Ceremonies. Visit our website for more information or come along to see us.
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
“I am on the gin and tonic diet – so far I have lost two days!”
from
– 2.00pm
Hello from Meriden School from School
It’s coming up to the time of year that we hold Induction meetings for our new Nursery and Reception children and parents. We enjoy meeting families again with a new and younger sibling- and for some of you parents it’s a return to Meriden where you came as a child! If for any reason you have not entered your child for school Nursery yet, do call us straight away to arrange a visit.
The summer term has many events and visits going on. We are carrying on with a programme of visits to Meriden library with each class, which is proving very valuable. Years 4 and 5 are having cricket training from Warwickshire Cricket Board and taking part in a festival at the end to try out their newfound skills. Our Music evening is on Thurs 5 th June from 6-7.30pm when nearly every class will be performing as a showcase for all the music opportunities here in school.
The Circus will be in town! Friday June 6th
The PTA have arranged a Circus for our summer event. There are three showings at 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm, and tickets are going fast. You are all very welcome to come- there will be some stalls and refreshments as well. If you are interested tickets are available from the school office- 01676 522488.
‘Healthy Week’ Mon 16th – 20th June
Lots of activities are planned to make this an exciting and interesting week for the children. Are there any people out there in the village who would like to offer any involvement? Maybe you are St John’s Ambulance trained and would like to come and show the children what you do? Are you a nurse or dietician…or keen on exercise or simply someone with a couple of hours to spare to help? We want to give a wide variety of experiences to show the children ideas to live a healthy life.
Our Junior Production will be on Wed 9th and Thurs 10th July ; there is as usual an open invitation to come along to the Dress rehearsal to you our village friends, on Tues 8 th July. Please ring school if you’d like to come along. There are rumours of devious spies and wartime nostalgia flying round school at the moment, so it sounds like a lot of fun!
I hope to see you all at one of our events and wish you all a happy and healthy summer. Jacky Smith
Visits to Meriden Library
Help! - Lunchtime Supervisors Required
Would you like to work with children?
Meriden School is looking for, positive, flexible lunchtime supervisors to join our friendly team.
Do you have a few hours a week to help supervise children during the lunch period, 11.50am – 13.20pm either each day or particularly Wednesdays and Fridays? Please ask amongst family and friends – it could easily suit an active retired person. Do contact school if you are interested or know anyone who may fit the bill on 01676 522488.
All the staff and pupils would like to say “Thank you” to Donna and Marion at Meriden Library. Throughout the school year, one class each week has visited the library to use the resources there to research a particular topic. Some sessions have been led by the class teacher, with assistance from Marion and Donna, and some by Donna and Chris Turner from Solihull Library.
The topics have ranged from “Magnets and Springs” to “the Great Fire of London” and Donna and Marion have provided some wonderful books and resources and produced quizzes which the children have enjoyed completing.
We feel so lucky to be able to take the children out of the classroom to experience a different learning environment in the local community.
See children’s thank you letters later in this Mag.
ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS
Rector Rev Michael Dawkins Tel 01676 522 719
The Rectory The Green Meriden CV7 7LN
Church Wardens Marian Theobald Tel 01676 523 475 Linda Barnett Tel 01676 523 277
A lady asked if I could find a hymn for her. It comes, like All Things Bright and Beautiful, often asked for, from the happiness of childhood. Later, on a Sunday evening, we sang it at Bablake House with the ninety and hundred year olds. They didn’t know it but picked it up quickly and loved it!
1. Daisies are our silver, Buttercups our gold: This is all the treasure We can have or hold.
2. Raindrops are our diamonds And the morning dew; While for shining sapphires We've the speedwell blue.
3. These shall be our emeralds Leaves so new and green; Roses make the reddest Rubies ever seen.
4. God, who gave these treasures To your children small, Teach us how to love them And grow like them all.
5. Make us bright as silver: Make us good as gold; Warm as summer roses Let our hearts unfold.
6. Gay as leaves in April, Clear as drops of dew God, who made the speedwell, Keep us true to you.
Jan Struther, 1901-1953
Do you know what one of them said? She picked up the phrase ‘good as gold’. She said gold could not corrode and, in spite of a very slow and shaky ninety something year old body, expressed an assurance she had had from childhood that the eternal life Jesus had given her could not corrode. It was ‘good as gold’. I wouldn’t mock a child who saw diamonds in raindrops nor an old lady who saw eternity in Jesus. Michael Dawkins
The Earl of Aylesford 1918 –2008
Former war hero and magistrate Charles Ian Finch-Knightley lived at Packington Old Hall, near Meriden, and owned a 5,000-acre estate including 11 tenanted farms, a golf course, deer park and trout and coarse fishery. In 1979, he and his family suffered a major setback when fire destroyed part of Packington Hall. Repairs cost about £l million, but the cause of the blaze was never established, although it was thought it could have been started by a workman's blowtorch.
Born in November 1918, the earl was educated at Oundle in Northamptonshire and served in the Black Watch in the Second World War, gaining the rank of captain, and was wounded by friendly fire while in service in Sicily. Described by close friends as a true gentleman and with no airs or graces who knew the real meaning of a hard day's work, he was concerned with the development of the community in and around Meriden throughout his life. He also introduced the many enterprises on his estate and oversaw the construction of a leading environmental land-fill site at Little Packington.
Appointed a Justice of the Peace, sitting on the Coleshill bench in 1948, he succeeded to the title of the 11th Earl of Aylesford on March 20 1958 and at the same time the title of 11th Baron of Guernsey.
Lord Aylesford served as Vice-Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands between 1964-74 and then as Lord Lieutenant from 1974-93, only standing down when he reached the age of 75. It was a role that he considered extremely important and entailed accompanying royals during their visits to the West Midlands.
A former member of the then Meriden Rural District Council, he was also closely involved with the scouting movement in the area, holding the position of County Commissioner.
He married Margaret Rosemary Tyer, the daughter of Major Austin Amold Tyer, in March 1946 who died in 1989. They had three children — Charles Heneage Finch-Knightley Lord Guernsey, , who has succeeded to the Earldom of Aylesford, Lady Sarah Elizabeth Jane Finch-Knightley who died in September 2005 and Lady Clare Charlotte Rosemary Remington - Hobbs.
The earl died at Heartlands Hospital last month after being taken ill the previous day. A private funeral took place in the family chapel on the Packington Estate and a memorial service took place at the chapel on May 9th.
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-timbered 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 about 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.
This year the new resource room is opening. This is housed in an almshouse outhouse, which has been specially converted. All the archives are stored in here and will be available to the public by appointment.
The museum is open on Sunday afternoons and Bank Holidays at Easter and from May to the end of September and at any other time by request, contact 01676 532138.
Afternoon teas are available in Berkswell Reading Rooms.
B Berkswell and District History Group erkswell and District erkswell
Meetings are held in Berkswell Reading Room at 8.00pm unless otherwise stated.
Thursday 12th June 1.45pm Visit to Kenilworth Castle Gatehouse (Guided tour with Jan Cooper numbers limited to 30)
Wednesday 9th July “ Little Known Warwickshire” – Alan Winterburn
Wednesday 13th Aug “Midland Murderers” Graham Sutherland
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
Minister Jenny Dyer BA MTh
Tel 01676 533737
Methodist Church News
Phone to arrange Marriages, Baptisms and Funerals Services:
Sunday morning 10.30am (Junior Church & crèche for children)
Sunday evening 6.30pm 3rd Sunday in month only
The things that thrive in my garden are the things I didn’t plant but which arrived by accident. At the moment (early May) it’s the pretty blue forget-me-nots. The name comes from the old French, and there are a number of romantic legends about how it arose. Over the centuries the flowers have been used as a gift for a sweetheart, in remembrance of those who died in war, and as the badge of some Alzheimer’s Societies around the world. I guess they would be good flowers to plant on a grave, perhaps along with a rosemary bush, because ‘rosemary is for remembrance’. In busy lives, we are not always good at remembering those we do not see, and not good at remembering God, except in times of need. Sometimes though we find ourselves thinking of him in spite of ourselves. A young mother I knew, who grew up in an atheist family and had no religious belief, nevertheless found herself saying thank-you each night at the children’s bed-sides to she knew not who.
The book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible offers the advice, “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth.” But the quote I particularly like is this prayer, spoken by Sir Jacob Astley before the Battle of Edgehill in 1642: “O Lord, thou knowest how busy I must be this day; if I forget thee, do not thou forget me.”
Rev. Jenny Dyer
Kinwalsey Tree Service
As part of the Meriden Festival we are organising the Kinwalsey Tree service on 22 nd June, 4.00pm at the Preachers Tree Kinwalsey Lane. For those feeling a little more energetic there will be a walk from the Village Green starting at 2.30pm led by Alan Gabbittas. The preacher this year will be the Rev William H. Anderson (Chairman of the Birmingham District of Methodist Churches) and Rev. Jenny Dyer and some local musicians will be providing the music. Please bring a garden chair and park your car in the paddock at “Hillwood Cottage” before walking down the lane to the tree. Tea will be provided following the service.
Rev Jenny Dyer
On July 13 th Jenny will be taking her last morning service at Meriden and on August 3 rd her final evening service. The family will be moving on to pastures new in Harpenden. Jenny and her family Nigel, Naomi and Jacob have been with us for the past seven years and as is the practice in Methodist Churches it is now time for them to move on. Jenny has been a wonderful inspiration to us all, giving us encouragement when needed and sharing with us her family’s musical talents. They will be missed very much but we wish them every happiness as they settle down in their new home. In September we shall be welcoming our new minister the Rev.Andrew Charlesworth. He is married to Sarah and has two little girls.
We, at the Meriden Mag, would like to thank Jenny for her contributions over the years and send her our best wishes for her life and work in her new Parish
Friends in Retirement Friends in Retirement
We are still thriving in Balsall Common with many members from Meriden. Activities include Art, Bowls, Bridge, Rambling, Patchwork and we hope to re-launch the swimming group when the new pool is complete in July or August.
The coffee mornings are held in the Jubilee Centre (the old library in Balsall Common) on Friday June 20th, Friday July 18th and Friday August 15th from 10.00am -12 noon. The AGM will be held on Thursday August 14th followed by a talk on Canals by Roger Craig .
New members are always made very welcome please ring 01676 532537 for more information
The Farm Shop The Farm Shop
The The
Berkswell Traditional Berkswell Traditional Farmstead Meats Farmstead
Larges Farm Back Lane Meriden
Larges Farm Back Meriden
Tel & fax 01676 522409 Tel fax 522409 www.farmsteadmeats.co.uk
For meats of outstanding quality & flavour
• Selection of superb Barbecue Meat
• 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
Phil Tuckey “The Country Butcher”
Our speakers
Listed as one of Rick Stein’s “Food Heroes” Meetings are held in the Village Hall on the first Monday in the month at 7.30pm Contact Joan Russell 01676 522666
Opening Hours Monday –closed Tuesday to Saturday 9.00am-5.00pm Sunday 9.00am-1.00pm Sunday evening Bingo at 8.30pm
Monday 2nd June
Open Meeting - speaker Nikky Smedley
“My life as a Teletubby”
Monday 7th July
Teddies Bears’ Picnic - speaker Beryl Romana
“The History of Teddy Bears”
Monday 4th August
Members evening
Monday 1st September
Driving standards Agency - “Arrive Alive project” Today’s Women working for Tomorrow’s World
Greetings,
The Centre Charity Shop 01676 523050
Firstly, once again I would like to thank everyone for their support, particularly our hard working staff and volunteers. Everyone comments on the lovely stuff we have donated to us so our thanks to everyone who supports us in this way. On a practical note we still need black or green sacks so if you have any to spare we would be extremely grateful. At the moment we are still inundated with books but we are hoping to get some nice weather soon so that we can have a big book sale and put some new stock in the bookshop.
At the moment we are in need of some good quality summer clothing particularly Ladies sizes 14 and 16 You will probably have noticed that we have had some very nice small pieces of furniture donated over the last couple of weeks, we are able to take small items furniture but we can only really fit in two or three at any one time or we can’t move!! So if you would like to give us furniture please ring us first on 01676 523050 to check that we have space first or to leave your number so that we can get back to you.
At the time of writing this article we are discussing having a coffee morning on a Friday – keep an eye on the shop window and it will verify times and the starting date. The idea is that it will be a place to just drop in and have a coffee /chat and meet up with others. However numbers are limited to approx 18-20 so first come first served!
The time has come again when our minds start thinking about the Meriden Fair and Centre Celebrations (14 th June 2008) and we hope it will be even more successful than last year. We will be serving Cream Teas at The Centre again so why don’t you pop in and try one!!
In the last edition of the magazine we said we’d update you on where some of the money you have been instrumental in helping us achieve has gone. So far we have given a gift to the Meriden Scout Club and one to The Meriden Methodist Nursery and will soon have an amount of money to donate to another worthwhile cause.
The time of our church services is now put up in the window of the bookshop for each month so that everyone knows exactly when they are on including the Saturday morning prayer meeting.
Last week was the first anniversary of us taking over at The Centre and it has been a steep learning curve with many changes along the way. We hope you like the alterations we have made to the shop and enjoy coming in and having a chat with each other and us.
We are one of the designated drop off points for the completed Meriden questionnaires so you are welcome to drop them off to us and we also have a couple of spare copies for anyone who hasn’t received one already.
On the Ministerial side of the work we do here at The Centre, we never fail to be amazed at Gods amazing grace and how he rarely answers our prayers in the way we expect him to but without doubt, his way is always the best way!! When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him. Proverbs Ch. 16 v 7. Hope to see you soon Kevin and Lyn Hunt
Treatment
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
Meriden Village Hall is available for private parties etc. Contact Valerie Martin 01676 522963 Rates are £10.00 per hour
Queen’s Head Old road Meriden
Monday night is music night, come along and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx
June 2nd Guy Surtees
June 9th Backbeat
June 16th Julie Christie
June 23rd Stevie Best
June 30th Terry Fox
July 7th Steve the Buskin Rambler
July 14th Charlie Waterford
July 21st Keith Brett
July 28th Paul Tracini
August 4th Keith Brett
August 11th Justine Claire
August 18th Marade
August 25th Hannah Dallas
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. ** Valid until 30/09/08 - Cut out this ad and bring it with you to claim free membership.
Pop in for good food and good company
Phone 01676 522256 for further information
free membership**worth £10 plus free portion pots worth £4.99 when you pay for six weeks
“I was the first woman to burn my bra – it took the fire department four days to put it out!”
Dry Cured Bacon Gammon, Honey Roast and Breadcrumbed Hams
Fresh Succulent Pork Sausages Pork pies, Cooked Meats and Faggots Free Range Eggs
Locally produced Lamb and Honey Fowlers Cheese and Berkswell Cheese
We breed and rear all the Pork we sell and we prepare and cook everything ourselves.
Opening times:Tuesday –Saturday 8.00am- 5.30pm
Walk 17-“Two Castles & A Manor”
This is the seventh in a series of walks kindly provided by the Coventry Way Association
Main Walk
1.Fwd along Church Lane to reach the Nuneaton Road (B4102). Fwd over to go along opposite road (Berry Fields), left at junction, down thro’ 2 f/g’s , T/R & thro’ p/g (in f/g) to enter field. (Route A see below).
2.Fwd, on track thro’ p/g (in f/g) then V/L cross-field up to top left hand corner, thro’ p/g, fwd up crossfield under OPL to field boundary in front of farm buildings. Thro’ small gap, fwd hg-right to x-stile, thro’ walkway to x-stile into field. Hg-right to field corner (over gap), T/L for a short distance & T/R between two pools along green lane. After 15m thro’ k/g on right, initially fwd cross-field to pick up hgright to corner. Thro’ k/g, H/L plus cross-field parallel to OPL on right to go thro’ f/g in corner. Fwd cross-field under pylon to go thro’ k/g, fwd cross-field leaving hedge on right to go thro’ k/g ahead onto road.
3.T/R & cross road (with care), just before The Weavers Arms x-stile on left. V/L cross-field to outward corner (laurel hedge) to go thro’ k/g in corner, along walkway to road. T/R along road (pavement), passing cottages on right to x-stile on left opposite Wood End House. Hg-right for 200m, over s/b on right thro’ p/g, T/L , hg-left (ditch) to corner. T/R at tree stump, hg-left for 180m to go thro’ p/g & over s/b on left, T/R, hg-right up to go thro’ p/g into garden, thro’ second p/g, hg-right to join house drive near & onto road.
4 . T/L & immediately T/R down road. Fwd down road (joining ACW) for approx. 700m to fishing pool on right, xstile into pool area, hg/fc-left to corner of enclosure to x-stile into field. Fwd up cross-field aiming for high hedge area & WMP ahead. T/L hg-right.
5 .Continue round to field corner, thro’ gap into copse area ahead. H/L thro’ copse on zig-zag path to WMP, fwd cross-field aiming for left end of conifers. Thro’ p/g into garden, fc-right thro’ p/g’s & gate onto road. T/R up road to next road junction (Wood End Lane).
6. Opposite junction thro’ k/g into field. Hg-right to outer corner, V/L to go over s/b & thro’ k/g, pass pond on left hgleft, to field corner, thro’ kg, hg-left to field corner thro’ k/g & over s/b. Hg-left to go over culvert thro’ gap, fwd to pick up fence on right. Just past metal f/g x-stile on right (leaving ACW).
7.Fwd cross short gap to reach start of hedge, hg-left to go over f/b. Up hg-right, pass pond on right, fwd cross-field to go over s/b & stile. Fwd cross-field (short) to go thro’ gap. Hg-right uphill to go thro’ gap & downhill hg-right to field corner. Follow round to left (ignore gaps) & in 180m over f/b & thro’ p/g on right into site of castle. Fc-right, over f/b & thro’ k/g into field. T/R, fence & stream right for 130m, thro’ p/g on right & over fib, up steps & x-stile on left to exit into an area between houses onto road. T/L down road, T/R into Church Lane.
Route A At the end of Note 1 T/R, hg-right (N W Circular Walk). Fwd to corner T/L , then fwd with hg-right to go thro’ p/g. Hg-right to go thro’ k/g, hg-right for 40m to cross stream over fib on right. T/L hg-left for 140m, H/R cross-field to reach metalled track at field corner. T/R up lane to main road & cross over to the nearby Weaver’s Arms. In car park x-stile in back hedge, H/R cross-field to corner. X-stile, pass pond right to x-stile into field. T/R, hg-right, follow round to reach & go thro’ p/g in garden fence. Thro’ garden onto road (Sandy Lane). Thro’ k/g opposite, hg-right to corner, thro’ k/g on right. Hg-right for 30m, T/L to go thro’ k/g, cross stream into field. Fwd, hg-right, go thro’ k/g in corner. V/R to go thro’ k/g onto road (Wood End Lane). Thro’ k/g opposite into field, V/R cross-field downhill to field corner & thro’ k/g and over s/b. Fwd up to incoming hg-right (WMP). Continue up & round hg-right until a WMP is reached. Continue with Note 5.
Meriden Library now has one copy of the new version of the 21 Walks book for reference, and copies of the book for sale at £6.00 each. More information regarding the Coventry Way Association from John Green 02476 503044 Peter Page 02476 413553
www.fillongley-show.co.uk
LARCH TREE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE
TREATMENT OF MUSCULAR AND SKELETAL PAIN, SPORTS AND PERSONAL INJURIES
One-day country show featuring horticultural & handicraft tents, trade stalls, raffle, horse show, dog agility, vintage tractors, livestock and many other attractions.
Schedules and entry forms from Mrs Cheryl Brookes Tel: 02476 460287
162 Stonebury Ave
Eastern Green
CV5 7NX E:fillongleyshow@fsmail.net
Local Farmers Markets
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
Benefits of one month’s gentle exercise revealed Gently exercising for one month is enough to have significant positive effects on fitness according to new research from University of Birmingham
The study which looked at overweight middle aged men showed moderate exercise like brisk walking was more effective in burning fat than short intense exercise like running, and can be effective in improving fitness and tackling the early stages of diabetes
Studies show the older member wants a personalised programme
Christina Eccles writes in Workout magazine that older members want a personalised programme for them and their particular lifestyle and needs. They want an achievable programme that sets them realistic goals. Some members prefer the gym as opposed to classes which they may find intimidating, whereas some members prefer some of the low intensity, low impact classes on offer
The leisure club at Marriott forest of Arden offers a discounted seniors membership along with personalised programmes and over 30 classes per week. For details call us on 01676 526107
A Message from Caroline Spelman MP
It is ten years since the leaders of the world’s richest nations came to Birmingham, a city at the heart of England with its long history of looking outward to the needs of the developing world.
It is also ten years since many of us formed a human chain round Birmingham calling on these leaders to drop the debt of the poorest. Yet so many countries are still deeply indebted despite some progress being made on multilateral debt relief over the last few years.
Take Malawi for example, a country I have visited at a time of famine. One of my lasting memories is of being shown a community orphanage which consisted of a health visitor doing a daily round of small huts where children as young as two had to fend for themselves.
Well-managed debt relief has produced many success stories. Uganda used the money to double primary school enrolment and investment in a successful HIV/AIDS plan. Mozambique’s debt relief has enabled its government to immunise 500,000 children.
Debt is just one – albeit important – issue in the complex, interlocking challenge of global poverty. Aid, trade, conflict, wealth creation, governance and corruption all impinge on appropriate international development policy. Many things have changed in my life since the human chain days – my son, who was then five and who was carried on the Bishop of Aston’s shoulders, now towers above me and is a very enthusiastic rugby and cricket player. Whenever I come to Meriden Primary School, at Christmas events and other times of the year, I am reminded just how lucky our children are to be brought up in such a lovely place.
How many children in the developing world will have had opportunities beyond all expectation because of the debt relief offered? But how many more could have benefitted if even more progress had been made to drop the debt.
Fri 6 th June 4.30-6.00pm Knowle Village Hall Saturday
Over the last several issues Paul & Melanie Lee have featured the Officers and Men named upon Meriden’s War Memorial who fell on foreign soil. They now feature two that made it home but presumably died of wounds sustained during the First World War. They also appeal again for information on F Cheadle and also re-feature Mick Jones’s photograph of Meriden’s Home Guard with those identified since the last issue.
Private Joseph Albert Jeffcott, No. 39168, 2 nd / 7 th Battalion, The Lancashire Fusiliers Joseph Jeffcott was born in Aston, Warwickshire, the son of Joseph Albert and Clara Jeffcott of Rose Cottage, Kinwalsey Lane, Meriden and enlisted in Coventry. Died of wounds on the 6 th May 1918 at the age of 20 at his home in Meriden and is buried in the north west corner of St Laurence Churchyard.
Gunner George Davies, No. 162969, The Royal Garrison Artillery son of Worthington and Ann Davies. George died on the 12 th December 1918 at the age of 25 and is also buried in St Laurence Churchyard, North Section.
A/B F Cheadle you may recall from our first article that we were unable to find any information on F Cheadle who is named on the Meriden War Memorial, unfortunately this is still the case and we would again like to appeal for further information. Do you know anyone who no longer lives in Meriden but may have information, if so please contact them and let us know. We now know the commemoration locations of all the Meriden casualties from both World Wars, whether it is a burial site or named on a Memorial to the Missing. F Cheadle remains unknown and it is imperative that we ensure HIS NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE.
MERIDEN’S HOME GUARD
We have received an excellent response from the last issue of the Meriden Mag where we featured Mick Jones’s photograph of Meriden’s Home Guard and list below (left to right) the update on who has been identified. We are delighted to have received contact from Fred Malin (pictured top left on the back row), Dorothy Print wife of David Print (pictured far right on the middle row) and also Dorothy’s daughter-in-law Monica. Many thanks to Fred, Dorothy and Monica for getting in touch. We now have a discrepancy on the identification of the man pictured in the middle of the front row, is it James Edward Warmingham or Hickman?
Back Row:
Fred Malin, Stan Ivans, Lol Holtom, DEVINE , Stan Fisher, Ernie Jones, Charlie Davies, ? , George Sweet, ?
Middle Row: ? , BILL HARVEY , ? , ? , George Wilcox, ? , ? , ? , DAVID PRINT
Front Row:
George Pegden, Cecil Hallard, ? , HICKMAN or James Edward Warmingham, ? , JACK BARLOW , ?
Mick Jones knows that the following men are pictured: Austin, George and Joe Ellard. Can you identify them or indeed any of the others, we would also welcome information on any of those pictured.
PS. Don’t forget to complete the Meriden Parish Appraisal and Plan –Household Survey 2008. Let us remember the sacrifice made by the Officers and Men of Meriden who answered the ‘Call to Arms’ by preserving the past and building for the future of Meriden.
Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA
(Glenn Richter wrote this article for his newspaper The Record –Journal)
I always knew they were a little odd over there, but this really takes the cake.
I’m leafing through the Spring 2008 edition of the Meriden Mag, the local quarterly publication in the charming (I’m sure) village of Meriden, smack-dab in the middle of England, and I come across an item from Caroline Spelman, who is their Member of Parliament, and who always has something informative in the Mag for her constituents.
This notice tells how “to contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery” with a list of dates and places (including Meriden Village Hall on April 18 th ) where Mrs Spelman -scalpel in hand, presumably- will be doing the honors, or maybe she’s just the one who keeps the appointment book. But, in either case, it seems an odd job for a member of the Mother of Parliaments to be doing.
Does this mean that British politicians not only tax their constituents, but also get to cut them up? Vote for me –or else?
Imagine if you will, going to Congressman Chris Murphy, say, for a little 5 th District facelift; or maybe dropping in on Joe Leiberman to have your tonsils senatorially yanked out.
So that’s how the National Health Service works?
Well not quite. This is just another of those British-American semantic misunderstandings, of course. In a meaning that’s never used over here (so you won’t find it in any standard –issue dictionary) a “surgery” is simply a time and place appointed for getting advice from someone, especially from your MP.
But if it’s not the meaning, it’s the spelling.
Regardless, eager to learn more about village life there, and to see what trouble I can get into I forge ahead with the Mag:
Meriden Primary school, it seems “have a new football kit.” What they’re holding up is a uniform. And football is what we call soccer.
The Rev. Michael Dawkins reports that the restoration of the church roof proceeds, despite a great deal of rot and deterioration due to “beetle activity.” But now his church, “symbol of our nation’s foundation truth and civilisation,” will stand for a long time to come.
Go to Ace Garage for “service, tyres and exhausts.” If you need it they’ll collect you.
Well, we really need to respond to this – who puts their luggage in the trunk of the car? We all know that an elephant has a trunk and a car has a boot.
Americans sit in their yard, we relax in our garden, a yard is where machinery is stored.
And what about spelling – dropping the “u” in words such as honour and colour.
We, of course, are totally confused by American electoral system - a primary in the UK is a school for 5-11 year olds.
We could go on – however it is fun hearing from Glenn and we wish him good health after his recent heart attack, he has just returned to work and we send him best wishes from Meriden
The Orme The Orme The Orme The Orme
School of Dancing School Dancing
Meriden branch Meriden branch
Methodist Church Hall Methodist
Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Freestyle and Contemporary Principal Sandra
As cold as the icy North Pole, Spitting fountains of water, Swirling to the ocean, As large as killer whales, It’s galloping like a horse’s hooves.
They are bloodthirsty waves, The waves are deep blue, Showers of water filling the sea, Hear the furious waves tearing at the shore.
By Jack (9) and James (8) Meriden School
Meriden Village Hall will be celebrating its 60th Anniversary on Saturday 20th September this year. More details in the next issue of the Mag. Mark this date in your diary to join in the fun.
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1st Meriden Scout Group
In April Beavers & Cubs from the 1 st Meriden Scout Group planted 4 trees at the Scout Hut. District Commissioner, Mick Judd attended the event
THANK YOU
The Scout Group would like to thank Paul Morgan from Heart of England Property Services and Jim Higginson for their recent hard work to improve the Scout Hut
We are looking to start a Scout Troop for girls and boys aged 10 and half to 14 years old. We shall be meeting to start with on a Tuesday evening 6.30pm at the Scout Hut. Please phone Lis Willis 01676 521080 for further details
If you have a child aged between 6 and 10 interested in joining us, or if you are an adult, who is happy to help, please contact the leaders:
1st Meriden Beaver Colony (ages 6-8)
Meeting Mondays 6.30pm –7.30pm
Tel: Jo 522625 or Gaynor 523191
1st Meriden Brownies
Sadly the 1st Meriden Guides are no longer running after 4 years due to dwindling numbers.
The Brownies are still going strong however for girls aged 7 to 11. There is a waiting list, but please contact us if you wish to put your daughter’s name on it. We do lots of interesting activities, which have included a circus skills day, pottery painting, first aid, and lots of games.
Coming up on 4 th June 2008 we are holding a sponsored event in aid of Children with Leukaemia. We ALL have to learn 26 “Hellos” in different languages. We will have a sponsorship envelope at Meriden Library where any donations will be gratefully received!
If anyone has any interests they would like to share with us we are always looking for volunteers.
We meet every Wednesday 6.15-7.45pm at Meriden Methodist Hall, term time only.
Contact: Jane 01676 542501
Tracy 01676 541134
Sharon 01676 522591
1st Meriden Cub Pack (ages 8-10)
Meetings Tuesdays 6.30pm –8.00pm
Tel: Lis Willis 521080 or Liz Mackenzie 523674
CAMEO CAMEO
Come and Meet Each Other at the Community Centre on the 4th Friday of the month at 2.00 p.m.
In February Lyn Dowling, a volunteer from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, gave an interesting informative talk illustrated with slides. The scheme came to this country from America in 1982. Dogs are chiefly selected from Rescue Centres. They receive sixteen weeks training and then further ‘individual training’ to suit the recipient. Lyn mentioned a number of ways in which people can help: donate or socialise a puppy, adopt or sponsor a dog, become a volunteer, speaker or fundraiser. A ‘Bring and Buy’ at the end of the meeting raised £100 for the scheme.
.
In March Margaret Oliver and her singers once again entertained us with a wide variety of songs and hymns. We all enjoyed singing along.
At our April meeting we welcomed back Rev. Jenny Dyer on her last visit to us before she leaves Meriden in the summer. She was thanked for having been such a source of encouragement to CAMEO since its inception. Jenny spoke about the Devon village of Morebath and what the Reformation meant to the villagers as seen through the detailed accounts kept by the vicar from 1520 until his death in 1554. This was extremely interesting and showed the tremendous changes the church underwent during this period when the country changed from being Catholic to Protestant, then briefly back to Catholic under Queen Mary until Queen Elizabeth came to the throne and the church once again became Protestant. Although not a rich parish they had to fund the various changes demanded by the Monarch of the day.
In June we are holding our third ‘Holiday at Home’ in Berkswell and are planning a varied programme of fun, music and art. We look forward to welcoming more friends to this and other meetings so if you need information or a lift please telephone: Ellen 522534 or Peggy 522221
Forthcoming Meetings:-
27th June – Holiday at Home
Please telephone Ellen 522534 or Peggy 522221 Forthcoming Meetings:-
25th July – Strawberries and Poems
15th August – Coach Trip to Charlecote Park.
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Rotary Club of Meriden
Senior Citizens Party
For the 27th year, almost every year of Meriden Rotary Club’s existence, we held our annual party for some of our elder local residents at Fentham Hall.
As always, it was a great occasion and everyone had an enjoyable time. We had around 112 guests this year, around 75 of whom required lifts, so the pressure was on to find enough drivers. We managed it and thank you to everyone who helped. The meal was as great as ever and our sincere thanks go to our friends in Inner Wheel for preparing this. Without their kind and unwavering support we simply could not hold this event. The entertainment was provided by 3+ 3, the same wonderful and extremely popular group who also played last year. Particular thanks from the whole club go to them for freely giving their services.
Our own John Wilson as ever did a fantastic job as Master of Ceremonies and is clearly very popular with all our guests. Indeed, every Rotarian, some accompanied by friends and family, did a wonderful job in helping throughout the evening. Many thanks too must go to The George Fentham Trust, The William Avery Trust, The Manor Hotel, Pertemps and Rockwell Sheet Sales for their generosity. They all help to ease the financial burden of the event.
I have received a number of ‘thank you’ cards from pleased guests. Their comments, I am sure, reflect the feelings of all. I know all Meriden Rotarians are proud to be members of our local Rotary club; this event provides a very good example of why we should feel such pride.
Roll on Saturday, 17 th January 2009, the date for next year’s event.
David Maugham
Rotary President Celia Parker with the two most senior guests
Warwickshire WildlifeTrust
What is Warwickshire Wildlife Trust & what do we do?
Warwickshire Wildlife Trust (WWT) is one of 47 Wildlife Trusts across the UK working to achieve the shared aim of securing a better future for wildlife. WWT is the leading local voluntary organisation concerned with all aspects of nature conservation (Registered Charity No: 209200), with over 18,000 members.
Activities in June
Saturday June 7th 3.00pm Using Your Ears – Bat Conservation Trust Survey Workshop
This workshop is an introductory course, designed specifically for volunteers to learn how to identify bats by their call and to carry out The Bat Conservation Trust’s surveys.
Location: Brandon Marsh Nature Centre (sign posted off the A45 towards London after the Toll Bar roundabout)
Booking essential : Contact Andrew Heath on 0121 244 8946 or _andrew@theheaths.org (small charge)
Saturday June 7th 8.30pm Mighty Moths
Warwickshire boasts a list of almost 600 species of moth, why not join county moth recorder to see how many you can discover on one site in one night.
Location: Meet at field gate adjacent to the entrance of the Highlands property, situated on A428 midway between Binley Woods and Brandon.
Contact: David Brown on 01789 840 295 (no charge)
Activities in July
Saturday July 5th 10.30 am Dragonfly Surveying Workshop
This workshop is aimed at the non-professional who is interested in helping us survey dragonflies for local projects in Warwickshire. There will be an indoor session in the morning followed by an afternoon visit. Refreshments are provided.
Location: Brandon Marsh Nature Centre (as above)
Contact: Peter Reeve on 01926 632 400 or peter@reeve60.uklinux.net cost £6.50
Saturday July 19th 10.30 am Orthotoptera Surveying Workshop
This will be similar to the dragonfly workshop, except we will be looking at grasshoppers and crickets.
Location, contact and cost as the dragonfly workshop
Saturday July 27th 10.00 am Introduction to Habitat Management
Join with the volunteers at Hampton Wood for an introductory session carrying out habitat management.
Location: Hampton Wood Barford
Contact: Dave Sollis on 01789 205 908 (no charge)
Activities in August
Saturday August 23rd to Sunday 24th Family Bank Holiday Weekend Fun
10.30am-12.00 noon and 1.00pm-2.30pm
Join us for an extravaganza of outdoor family activities
Location: Brandon Marsh Nature Centre cost £4.00 per child
To book contact: 024 7630 2912
Monday August 25th Bank Holiday Bonanza
10.30am-12 noon - capture creepy crawlies
1.00pm-2.30pm – pond dipping
Location: Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park, Solihull cost £4.00 per child
To book contact: 0121 704 0768
How can you find out more about WWT?
On Line Our website www.warwickshire-wildlife-trust.org.uk or Email: enquiries@wkwt.org.uk
TelephoneBrandon Marsh Visitor Centre, Coventry 024 7630 2912 or Parkridge Centre, Solihull 0121 704 0768
Post Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, Brandon Marsh Nature Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry, CV3 3GW
Balsall Common and District Horticultural Society
HOSTAS
Fat spikes of hostas are now poking their heads up in the borders, a promise of spectacular displays in a few weeks time. To the determined hosta collector this is an exciting time of year. Hostas, also known as plantain lilies, are named in honour of the Austrian botanist Nicholas Thomas Host and will provide interest throughout the growing season.
Hostas are generally long-lived garden plants, relatively disease free, requiring little care other than watering and some fertilizer to enhance growth. We started to grow hostas or plantain lilies in our garden about 30 years ago and have enjoyed the new varieties that have been introduced, frequently from North America. Many of the recent introductions produce attractive flower spikes as well as spectacular leaves. There are over 5,000 named cultivars and most are easy enough for beginners. However, some new varieties have been produced with very pale leaves and often lack vigour and in our experience are poor ‘doers’.
One commonly held view is that hostas require a damp shady position. However our hostas thrive in very dry parts of the garden and several are very tolerant of a sunny spot. We grow a variety with broad silver margins in very dry soil under trees where they light up an area of deep shade. Hostas can also be grown very successfully in containers. The other problem associated with growing hostas successfully is the problem of slugs and snails. We have found that the large grey leaved varieties are less susceptible to attack. Most hosta nurseries admit to using slug/snail pellets, but they can be seen as a threat to birds. I have used a liquid preventative very successfully and apply it early in the season... Recently we found the recipe for an organic deterrent, 2 crushed garlic bulbs are boiled in 2 pints of water for 3 minutes. 1 tablespoon of the mixture can mixed with a gallon of water and applied to plants.
We like to plant hostas together with Arum Italicum Pictum for the latter comes into foliage early and then disappears as the hostas come into leaf. Hostas can be divided easily in spring or autumn, small clumps can be pulled apart and large ones divided with a spade. If left alone they will increase to form large plants and provide ground cover.
Some of the most attractive large varieties include: Francis Williams, with blue green leaves edged beige, tolerant of a sunny position. 'Big Daddy', with deep blue round puckered leaves. 'Thunderbolt', with creamy yellow leaves with blue green margins. Gold Haze has sticking bright golden leaves, gradually fading to green as the season progresses. My favourite hosta is called ‘June’, a small to medium plant with beautifully variegated blue and green leaves. Hosta 'Halcyon', - a medium sized plant, probably the most popular blue leaved variety producing lilac flowers. “Fireworks” is a small plant whose leaf centres become whiter as leaves mature through the season.
Hosta Gold Haze
Hosta Frances Williams Hosta Fireworks
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IDYLLIC GARDENS IDYLLIC GARDENS IDYLLIC IDYLLIC
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• Cultivated Turf & Lawns
• Patios - Paths - Yorkstone
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Free advice & estimates
Portfolio and references available
As red as a fire Flaming for its home, As colourful as a Tiger taking a walk.
As beautiful as the Hot red sun in its place, Like a rainbow
Leading to the pot of gold.
Orange, red and yellow
All mixed to make a lovely pattern in the sky. I love a sunset!!!!!
By Aimee Hollingsworth Year 4 Meriden School
The sunset The sunset The sunset The sunset
The sky like a tigers fur Beaming in the brightness, The sun like a round Orange sweeping in the Cloudy air, like a fireball That has been thrown In the calm sky, It’s like a lion’s golden Mane shimmering in the orange heavens
By Emily Stratton (8) and Harriet Iles
(8)
Mick Neary 1941 - 2008
Mick was born into a large family and they came to the village when he was three years old. He lived in Meriden for the rest of his life.
He married Jan in 1970 and they had four sons and later eight grandchildren.
He worked on the farm and later at the Triumph Motor Cycle Factory. For the last twenty-five years he worked as a driver for John Pointon and Mick Jones.
For many years he was the Committee Treasurer at the Heart of England Social Club, and later enjoyed his social life at the Club and the Queen’s Head. His large family were very special to him. He loved shooting and dancing in his younger years; he enjoyed feeding the birds in his garden and the company of his dogs.
Mick was a “larger than life” character who was very popular and had many friends.
At his funeral the church at Berkswell was packed with standing room only and his close friend Barry Curtis reminisced about the outrageous antics they got up to in their early years.
Mick was very brave coping with cancer and adopted a positive attitude. The size of the congregation was significant to the popularity of the man and he will be missed by many.
OUR SERVICE INCLUDES
VEHICLE COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE
VEHICLE MANUFACTURER SCHEDULE
SERVICING
INTRICATE INTERROGATION DIAGONOSTIC
EQUIPMENT
TYRES AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE EXHAUST
BRAKE SERVICE CLUTCH MOT
B33 0QX PHONE 0121 742 1142
Find us at the rear of Discount Sales
Meriden Art Group Meriden Art Group
All major credit and debit cards accepted
Stop Press!!! UPDATE ON 900, 192, 194 BUS SERVICES
It looks like the Meriden Art Group are in for another good season of exhibitions with loads more new art work to show. As you may have noticed, we try to regularly exhibit some of our work in the library, for which we are very grateful to have the space and opportunity. So keep an eye open for paintings on show there. We will also be having two official exhibitions this year. There will be a stand at the Megaride on the 8 th June and also a week at Coleshill in conjunction with the Coleshill Art Group. This will be at the Old Market Hall from 9th to16 th July. Entrance to both of these is free. It is very rewarding for the group to have your support and interest and it’s great when locals or even visitors from outside of the village want to purchase some of the work. We are gradually developing a reputation for good artwork! Julie Hyde 523357
Responses have been received from Mark Kipling the Area Manager, Acocks Green National Express West Midlands and Martin Nixon, Interim Area Director for West Midlands Travel to the issues raised at the Open Meeting on 31 st March. These are posted on all of the Parish Council notice boards and in Meriden Library.
To relieve the overcrowding on the 9.42am bus service 192 from Meriden to Solihull an additional bus two minutes ahead of the 9.42am has been put on . This will not be a low floor vehicle and will operate Monday to Friday school days only, starting its journey from Meriden and running through to Solihull. This arrangement will be on a trial basis, which will be reviewed in three months. Please use this additional service to ensure it continues!
WECARE FOR YOURTREES
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FULL LIABILITY INSURANCE UP TO £5 MILLION
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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
• Local farm turkeys, boneless turkey breast, fresh farm chicken
• Wide selection of bacon including dry cure English
• Deli counter with a wide selection of cheese, pies and cooked meats
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!
ZOE’S MARKET ZOE’S MARKET ZOE’S MARKET ZOE’S MARKET (Formerly the Fruit Basket) (Formerly Fruit Basket) 3,The Green, Meriden 3,The Green, Meriden
Foods Fresh and Frozen Fish Fresh Vegetable Kebabs for your BBQ
Preserve, Pickle & Kilner Jars now available
Order your preserve jars now in readiness for the new jamming season
Proprietor Zoe Wilson Proprietor Zoe Wilson Proprietor Wilson Proprietor Wilson
Meriden library
01676 522717
Open Monday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm
The summer Reading Challenge has an Olympic theme this year. The idea is for children to read 6 library books of their choice during the summer holidays. There will be stickers to collect and a certificate and medal on completion. So come and join the challenge and make the most of your local Library. Starting date is 12th July.
There will be an activity in the Library on August 19th for 5 - 11 year olds. We shall be testing our skills at the ‘Mini Olympics’. Tickets are free and available 2 weeks before the event.
We have been pleased to welcome class visits from Meriden School on a weekly basis. It is always good to see children using the Library and we hope they will continue to visit out of school hours as well.
We welcome Rob to Meriden Library as the Lunchtime Assistant; we hope he will enjoy working here. Remember our Internet access is free to use. Pop in or telephone to reserve a computer. Keep in touch with family and friends, check out holiday availability, research your family history, the opportunities are endless. The staff are always on hand to help.
As part of Solihull Heritage weekend 11th - 14th September , we are hoping to display some local artefacts and photographs in the Library. If you have anything we could borrow we would be pleased to hear from you. There is an exhibition at the Central Library in Solihull called ‘Just the ticket’. It celebrates 30 years since the opening of the new Library. Share your memories of the old and new. The exhibition is in the Heritage Gallery from 21 st April – 30 th August. This year is National Year of Reading and each month there will be a different theme. May is Mind and Body so for our Coffee morning on 29th May we will be pleased to welcome Kay from Lloyds Pharmacy who will be offering blood pressure and diabetes testing during the morning from 10.00 – 12.00 Please support us you will be most welcome.
MERIDEN LIBRARY READERS' GROUP
Our discussions on Poetry took us from William Blake via Sylvia Plath to Pam Ayres! A lively evening! For June we shall be reading contemporary children’s stories – NB 4 th June. In July – Tibet- and in August sporting heros and heroines (we are nothing if not topical!)
We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30 pm (apart from June) - details of the venue from Meriden Library staff. Please think about joining us - you will be most welcome.
Sue Fuller
BALSALL COMMON
In April we held our 2 nd AGM when the Executive Committee was returned unopposed. The membership of the group has now reached a very satisfactory 120 with many newly formed interest groups, these include Scrabble, Creative Writing, Garden Visits and Strollers and in September we commence Philosophy, which is a definite challenge.
As a result of an application to Birmingham International Airport Community Trust we have recently received £2000 which will be spent on purchasing a laptop and power-point equipment. This will enable us to make our own presentation. Our website for the coming year has also been updated, this gives the Executive Committee members, the Interest Groups and our monthly speakers. The website http://balsallcommonu3a.org also has a link to our recently formed flickr.com group. This is a worldwide site to post photographs; you can find us on http://flickr.com/photos/balsallcommonu3a/ This site will be regularly updated with photos of 'what we do' 'where we go' an 'who we are'.
We have recently formed a Social Committee and the first event a Quiz Evening proved very popular. Our first coach outing to Bletchley Park another success.
Here we are again at the end of another chess season. We have had our most successful one yet. We have regained the Division 3 trophy and are moving up to Division 2. Great news, but unfortunately our team numbers have dwindled once more due to work commitments. If you would like to join us or know anyone else who might be interested do not hesitate in contacting either Graeme or Shirley on 01676 521259 , any age or ability welcome.
We charge £1.50 a night when we meet at home in the Dawson lounge at Meriden Methodist Church but play away in the Coventry and District Chess League.
We meet on the 4 th Monday in the month, unless it is a Bank holiday when it will be the 3 rd Monday –2-00pm in The Village Hall, Station Road, Balsall Common. We are a friendly group still accepting members and anyone interested is welcome to come as a prospective member to one of our core meetings for a small charge of £2.
If you wish to know more please contact me on 01676 534003 or email info@balsallcommonu3a.org
Anne Santos Hon. Chairman
Meriden Knights Chess Club
Tile Hill Lane, Coventry
Home Computer Repairs, Upgrading & Problem Solving
Contact Paul Morgan on 01676 542885 07917 692948 mobile
Telephone: 0121 764 5872
Mobile: 07979 064835 Phone Paul
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 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!!
Also treatment rooms available at the Windmill Village Hotel and Nailcote Hall Hotel
Chelmsley Citizens Advice Bureau began its life in November 1971. The Bureau has recently moved to new premises in Bosworth Drive
The new premises offer more interview rooms, a training room, and a public car park.
Our current opening hours are; Monday, Tuesday, and Friday – We open the doors at 9:30 and issue time slots on a first come, first served basis.
Monday Evening – We have fortnightly appointments for people who work and cannot attend the Bureau during working hours.
Wednesday – We have a benefits surgery. Appointments are available in advance by telephoning the Bureau.
Friday – We have an Employment Surgery. Appointments are available in advance by telephoning the Bureau.
We provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination.
We aim: To provide the advice people need for the problems they face.
To improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives.
We are a registered Charity and the Advisers who deal with the enquiries above are all Volunteers. We are hoping that we can extend our services but in order to expand our services to people within the local community we need to recruit volunteers to join our team. We have numerous roles that range from administration duties, reception, social policy reporting, fundraising and advice work. We ask for a commitment of minimum of 6 hours per week and full training is given, no qualifications are necessary.
If you are interested, please contact Maggie Deutsch on 0121 779 6707 for further details
Solihull’s Open Gardens
How often have you caught a glimpse of a wonderful garden through some part-open gateway, and wished that you had the chance to see more! Well, now is your chance to explore more than 20 of the Borough’s finest gardens, when they open this year for charity.
These delightful gardens will be open to the public over three Sundays, starting on 8th June, and followed up with 13th and 20th July . Some will open to the public for the very first time. Many of the gardeners will be offering additional treats for visitors, with homemade refreshments and superb selections of home grown plants for sale: you may also hear live music in some gardens, and maybe see a demonstration of some traditional craft skills. Visitors can also test their skills in the garden photo competition, and win prizes in other attractive competitions run during the season. As a special bonus, Solihull College will join the event by holding their open day on 8 June, when, amongst many attractions and displays, the grounds of Tudor Grange will be open, and their extensive Animal Centre will also be open to the public. This is a perfect treat for the children or grandchildren, with free entry for the children to see all that is going on!
Money raised goes to help the three Citizens Advice Bureaux in Solihull to flourish.
Details of prices and opening arrangements are available from the website –www.solihullsopengardens.org.uk, from posters in local garden centres and from Solihull Tourist Office in May, or by phoning 0121 705 1059.
BRI ASSET MANAGEMENT PLC
onday 11 th December18
JuneMonday £
Meriden Floral Society
June 16th Open Evening “Auctioneers Lots” by Nick Grounds
everyone welcome
Tickets £6.00
Meetings are held in Meriden Village Hall at 7.30pm prompt
For further information & tickets
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 and Pharmacy News - Updated information
BALSALL COMMON & MERIDEN GROUP PRACTICE
Old School House, Main Road, Meriden CV7 7NG Tel 522252 Surgery Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00
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 IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ALL PATIENTS TO CHECK THAT PRESCRIPTIONS COLLECTED (EITHER FROM THE CHEMIST OR THE SURGERY) DETAIL THE MEDICATION ORIGINALLY REQUESTED. REFUNDS WILL NOT BE GIVEN BY THE PRACTICE FOR MEDICATION DISPENSED BUT NOT REQUIRED
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 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.
Appointments Available from
MONDAY AM THURSDAY 2.00pm MONDAY PM FRIDAY 8.30am
TUESDAY AM FRIDAY 2.00pm
TUESDAY PM MONDAY 8.30am
WEDNESDAY AM MONDAY 2.00pm
WED PM CLOSED
THURSDAY AM TUESDAY 2.00pm THURSDAY PM WEDNESDAY 8.30am
FRIDAY AM THURSDAY 8.30am FRIDAY PM THURSDAY 8.30am
In an “out of hours” emergency
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
PRE BOOKED APPOINTMENTS
What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?
The condition chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is often referred to as Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema and even long standing Asthma. “Chronic” means long term and progressive but can be controlled in many cases.
The main cause of COPD is smoking, resulting in damage and narrowed airways which make it harder to breathe, the air passages become inflamed which causes cough and excess phlegm. Eventually affecting a person’s quality of life.
IF YOU STOP SMOKING YOU STOP THE ACCELERATED DECLINE OF YOUR LUNG FUNCTION.
To diagnose COPD a breathing test is performed called a SPIROMETRY, the respiratory nurse can do this at the surgery. COPD cannot be cured but compliance to treatment can improve symptoms of cough, shortness of breath and phlegm production. It is important to keep well and protect against chest infections e.g. make sure you have a pneumonia injection and yearly flu vaccinations, simple daily activity e.g. walking and a good healthy diet.
COPD Screening Programme
We are offering a screening programme at the Meriden surgery to all our current and ex-smokers aged 35-75+ years who are experiencing any signs of daily cough, shortness of breath and/or phlegm production. A spirometry test will be performed and the results explained. An opportunity to discuss smoking cessation will be made available at the appointment.
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 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. National Blood
Balsall Common and Meriden Group Practice
Prescription Request and Delivery Service – Pharmacy2U
Further to the recent letter sent to all patients receiving repeat medication from the Practice, I felt I should write to answer concerns voiced by both patients and the local pharmacies. At no time did the Practice want to threaten the services presently provided by the Lloyds chemist at Balsall Common and Meriden; in fact the letter clearly states that:
• The services is offered in addition to all other existing services
• All the existing services will continue
• If you want a local chemist to dispense your medication, you need take no further action
• If you do not wish to take part with this scheme you need take no further action
As a Practice we are aware that through ill health, work commitments or other personal circumstances some patients find it difficult to obtain the repeat medication prescribed by the Practice. The Pharmacy2U service is offered as an alternative to all existing services. We feel that we have an obligation to our patients to give them a choice of services to use so that they may use the one most appropriate to their needs. Pharmacy2U will:
• Remind patients that their repeat medication is due
• Deliver to any address free of charge
Each patient has a choice to use this service or to continue ordering their medication as they do now. If you do sign up to Pharmacy2U and decided you no longer wish to use their service either for one occasion or permanently all you have to do is request your medication from the Practice as you do now.
I should like to confirm that the Practice sent out the letters to all patients including the registration form from Pharmacy2U so as to make it easier for patients who wished to either know more about the service or who wanted to sign up for the service.
IF YOU WISH TO CONTINUE TO ORDER YOUR MEDICATION DIRECTLY FROM THE PRACTICE AND EITHER PICK UP YOUR PRESCRIPTION FROM THE SURGERY OR LOCAL LLOYDS CHEMIST YOU CAN STILL DO SO, PHARMACY 2U IS AN ALTERNATIVE SERVICE
Joanne Hope Practice Manager
Lloyds Pharmacy The Green Meriden Tel/ Fax 01676 522722 Monday – Friday 9.00am – 6.00pm
9.00am – 5.00pm
Meriden United Charities
The Meriden United Charities is a trust fund, which manages income from a collective combination of endowments, which were made by various local benefactors over the centuries.
By today’s standards, the Annual Income is modest but the trust states that it will offer provision
“…to persons resident in the Parish of Meriden who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress, by making grants of money or providing or paying for items, services or facilities calculated to reduce the need, hardship or distress of such persons.”
The Trustees meet three times per year to consider applications from residents of any age who feel they have a specific need not fulfilled by statutory provision. Anyone wishing to apply for help should, in the first instance, write to The Clerk to the Trustees, Mr Alan Barker, 163 Avon Street, Coventry CV3 3GQ
Children from Meriden School visited Meriden Library
I enjoy going to the library because it helps us to find books quickly when we need them. Also you find things for your self and not been given them. We go because it helps you with your education. I would like to say a big thank you to the staff at the library for getting things ready for us
James Hughes year 5
I enjoyed the library because it was fun. We read lots of books to find lots of facts about the Moon. Thank you to the Meriden library ladies. Harry Hammon year 5
When I went to the library on Thursday 1st May, I researched some scientific facts about Saturn. The librarians set out all the books that we needed and left us to it. I had a fantastic time I would like to thank the Librarians
Connor Boyd
I enjoy going to Meriden library because you can work with partners or on your own and find more information out for your self. It helps your education because its got LOADS of books and a few computers
Evie Spalding year 5
Firstly thank you to all the Meriden library staff for putting all the books out for us, Its nice to go down to the library now and again because it’s a break from school and its just enjoyable to look at books
Thomas Callaghan year 5
I enjoy going to the library because it links with our education for example it helps with team work, helps our computer skills and we find information on topics were doing in school. It helps give me ideas for what I would like to borrow
Clare Scruby year 5
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 638 1783 Mobile 07702 789 264
Meriden Volunteers for Cancer Research UK
Thank you for supporting us last year. At the end of our financial year we were pleased to have sent another £14,000 to Cancer Research. We have recently had another successful Black Country Night at the Heart of England Club and raised £1,200 –so we’re off again for another year.
“Turmeric Gold” have been very generous and are offering their establishment for a “Sunday Lunch with a difference”(see the advertisement below). We are very much looking forward to our Open Gardens on August 31 st . This is always a popular event and everyone enjoys the “community feeling”
If you feel you can share your garden- big or small, modern or traditional please call:Mary 522160 Carol 07811 613 905
“ Together we will beat cancer”
Open gardens in Meriden
Sunday August 31st
It’s hard to believe it is two years since our last open gardens. The weather was scorching hot- a bit too hot really!
This year we hope to have good weather again to look over the gardens and chat away. The price stays the same at £2.50 which means you can spend all day pottering around.
Refreshments & stalls will be available en route. Maps can be collected from “Lavender House” by the Village Hall and the gardens will be open from 11.00am to 6.00pm
Donations of plants and bric a brac will be most welcome Mary 522160
Join us for a Sunday lunch with a difference
Join us for a Sunday lunch with a difference
Join us for a with a difference
Join us for a with a difference
Sunday July 13th
Traditional Indian Buffet lunch with a glass of wine £15 adults, primary aged children - £10
There will be two sittings:1.00pm and 2.30pm.
You will be able to sit in the garden with drinks before or after your meal. Booking essential call Mary 522160 or Carol 07811 613 905
* Lifestyle * Cuisine Tel: 01676 521055
SEVEN DAYS A WEEK LUNCHTIME 12 Noon – 2.00pm Lunchtime menu available 2 course £7.50 3 Course £8.50 Ideal for business lunches or for pleasure EVENINGS 5.30pm – 11.00pm Monday – Saturday 5.30pm - 10.30pm Sunday
The Meriden Hotel 155 Main Road Meriden CV7 7NH www.turmericgold.co.uk
Mrs Gaskell wrote about individual members of her community with flair and had she lived in Meriden, Dr Kittermaster’s varied lifestyle and good fortune would doubtless have attracted her attention. When young, ‘ Kittermaster’ Road caught my eye. Who was he? As usual Basil Warmingham came to the rescue: a village doctor in Victorian days whose house still stood on the Hill. Dr Platten our G.P. added, ’His tombstone is by the rear gate of the church yard.’
Though I wanted to know more, it took me until 1990 to satisfy my curiosity. That was when I got in touch with descendants, especially the playwright Michael Kittermaster. The doctor’s parents, James and Margaret nee Harper were butler and housekeeper in the home of Revd. Anthony Bliss, Meriden’s rich, long serving, bachelor vicar. Mr Bliss paid for James’s public school education, after which he served as an army doctor in the Peninsular War and Canada but his heart literally remained in Meriden where he returned in 1813 to marry Miss Mary Zachery, a talented teacher. The ‘young marrieds’ at first lived in the vicarage, but in 1815 when the vicar died aged 86, they inherited Meriden House, which they rented out for more income, land and money. The 1851 census records his qualifications: M.D Glasgow, saying he practiced medicine without charge: a blessing to the village poor but not to other doctors who needed to earn a living!
In 1829 his mother died, leaving him a cottage and small field called ‘Hill Orchard’ in the lane near the church. With a growing family of his own, and a friend’s widow, Ann Beaufoy with two children to accommodate, he decided to build a family house ‘Church Cottage’ on part of the field, soon enlarged for his wife’s project: a boarding school for young ladies. Mrs Beaufoy assisted as a teacher. The Dr enjoyed shooting, fishing, walking, picnics and botany but his most creative hobby by 1830s was drawing and watercolour painting. These pictures give us a wonderful image of the village and its surroundings just before the era of photography. Sometimes he took one of his young daughters with him and sketched a series of pictures as they walked to Hollyberry End or Gt Packington. Often he strolled down the field path as you still can do, to the ‘Queen’s’ for a drink or drew himself, usually smoking, with one or two of his sons. The village looked as it did in my childhood but by then vast changes were afoot and many old buildings he depicted like Darlaston Hall have vanished while others like the ‘Queen’s’ are not recognisable from his work. His younger sons’ imaginations were fired by his tales about Canada so as young adults, they decided to emigrate taking with them part of his archive of pictures. The Dr lived out his life in the village working for its betterment: a true village worthy. His youngest daughter Miss Edith Harriette Kittermaster played the church organ and in her turn built a house in Eaves Green Lane.
A few weeks ago his Canadian descendant decided many of the pictures ought to ‘come home’. I have set myself the task of conserving them (as they are rather frail) for the community. I hope many of you will enjoy viewing them on slide, hear more about the Dr’s life and times and by paying a small fee, contribute to this Project.
Doreen Agutter
The Bull Head Inn 1832
Inner Wheel Club of Meriden
Hoar Park Shopping & Leisure Village
Ansley, Nuneaton
Tel: 024 7639 9393
Mob: 0797 123 8424
Hats, fascinators, headwear for all Hats, fascinators, headwear for all Hats, fascinators, for all Hats, fascinators, for all occasions occasions- hire or buy. Handmade hire buy. Handmade hats and headpieces made to order hats and headpieces to
We would like to thank all villagers who attended the Merlin Singers concert in April. With your help we raised the wonderful sum of £874 for Acorns Children’s Hospice. Sadly all good things must come to an end and the Inner Wheel Club of Meriden will be closing in July. Thanks again to everyone in Meriden who has supported us over the years at all our fund raising events.
Val Martin
Awareness in the Countryside
I am sure so many of you must have noticed, as you walk or drive in our beautiful countryside, that our lovely trees, mostly oak and ash, are being disfigured by ivy creeping up the trunks and along the branches hiding their lovely bark and in a lot of cases taking over the entire tree.
There is a lot of this to be seen around Meriden and the surrounding district.
Our trees are being robbed of their beauty and majestic looks because they are clothed with heavy ivy. This also makes the trees very vulnerable and open to gales.
I feel we must act now to protect the identity of our trees and see them once again in their true beauty.
I have been told that her Majesty the Queen has asked for the ivy to be cut off the trees on one of her estates. Good for Her Majesty, we should all follow her lead. We all need to do our utmost to address this serious problem it affects us all.
Brenda Ingram
Dear Editor,
I have recently written to Meriden Parish council with some suggestions for making Meriden a safer and more attractive place to live. I would like to share my thoughts with other people to see if they share my views.
Lighting – parts of Meriden are poorly lit – the footpaths between Fillongley Road and Highfield, and Highfield and Alspath Road (which are used by many elderly people). The footpath beside the Greengrocers and Arden Close and the area where the crossing lady stands for children to access the school.
Crime happens in poorly lit places and if the shrubs around the footpaths were kept low this would prevent people hiding there.
Although the tree on the roundabout and the Meriden Tree of Thought look beautiful at Christmas time with the Christmas lights, perhaps some of the businesses could decorate their premises to make the village look more festive.
Our village green is a credit, it always looks well cared for and beautiful, wouldn’t a few hanging baskets around the island into the Fillongley Road look attractive?
Hold a meeting on provisions for our youth, keep them busy and listen to their views, this will help everyone.
Yours sincerely
W. Kelly 43, Alspath Road
Work continues to improve rights of way in Meriden and across the Borough
With summer nearly upon us, I hope that many of you will once again take advantage on the supposedly improving weather conditions, and explore the many varied public footpaths and bridleways that Solihull has to offer.
The Council continues to work hard to try to improve these routes, and already in 2008 has been working with volunteer groups to install 6 kissing gates in place of stiles on routes in the Meriden area. The gates help to improve the accessibility of the network for users whilst ensuring that the farmers’ fields remain stock proof.
In January of this year, we released the first ever 'Solihull Rights of Way Improvement Plan'. The plan is intended to be a strategic document that will provide the means over a ten-year period for us, with your assistance, to identify and propose management strategies in order to improve public rights of way and access to the countryside.
As part of the development of this plan, we have created a statement of actions, which sets out local priorities and actions that we propose to take to improve access within the borough. This statement of action has been formulated following extensive consultation with members of the public, network users and stakeholder organisations. If you are interested in rights of way and would like to have a look at the plan, a copy is available at Meriden Library or online at: http://www.solihull.gov.uk/transport/publicrightsofway_11763.htm
One of the actions identified as part of this plan was to improve the bridleways which run through Meriden Shafts. This work is already underway with the steps taken to ensure that the routes are open and available throughout the year. We intend to follow this up in the next couple of months by improving the ground conditions at a number of points on the route where it suffers from waterlogged and boggy ground. I hope that you enjoy utilising the network throughout 2008 however if you do come across any problems or would like to discuss a rights of way issue, then please do not hesitate to to contact me at dkeaney@solihull.gov.uk
David Keaney - Walking and Rights of Way Officer, Solihull MBC
On Monday 7 th April 2008 a splendid evening was enjoyed by fifty-five members together with guests from neighboring Women’s Institutes at Meriden Village Hall. Five previous Presidents, Mrs. Val Edwards, Mrs. Grace Tuckey, Mrs. Susan Fuller, Mrs. Margaret Argyle, Mrs. Mary Timms and the present President Mrs Joan Russell were presented with flower button holes in recognition of their work for Meriden WI.
Afterwards Pat Eyre who has been with the time.
A display of old photographs, minute books and members’ crafts brought back happy memories. The painting, needlework and card making showed a variety of excellent, skilled talents.
Everyone enjoyed the magician Paul Kybert who gave an amazing show before a delicious buffet was served by Nick James of ‘The Old Bakery’ Hampton. A named pencil was presented to all those present, as a memento of the occasion.
Afterwards Pat Eyre who has been with the Meriden WI for forty-five years and is our oldest serving member cut a beautiful cake, made by member, Mrs. Maureen Gabbitas
A toast of ‘thanks’ was made by Mrs. Joan Russell to all the previous Presidents, Committees and members who have kept Meriden WI working since 1918; on a variety of local and National issues, from supporting the local Poor Law Institute in the 1920’s to campaigning against the closure of Post Offices and hospitals at the present time.
Meriden Methodist Nursery celebrated its 40 th anniversary on 18 th April 2008 with afternoon parties for children past and present and in the evening for workers past and present. It was lovely to hear tales of how the nursery first started from Mary Warr, who indeed started with Miss Margaret Dawson in 1968 and from many other ex-workers whose memories were both funny and endearing. We had a photo display from over the 40 years and spent a great deal of time trying to put names to faces who we had either worked with or taught in the past. I think everyone had a good time and here’s to the next 40 years! Marilyn Hamilton
Established in 1968 Methodist Church Hall 113, Main Road Meriden
We offer children from 2-5 years of age a caring, stimulating environment with experiences that are full of fun with our qualified staff.
Morning, afternoon or day sessions. We can arrange collections from local nurseries.
Your child is entitled to 5 free sessions per week for terms after their 3rd birthday (until they attend school nursery or reception class).
We are OFSTED Registered and accredited to Pre-school Learning Alliance QA Scheme
To see how You and Your Child could benefit pay us a call on 07882705490 / 07882808821 01676 523472
NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR SEPTEMBER 2008
The Cricket season is here again, along with the rain! So, weather permitting we are looking forward to our first full term at Barkers Butts RFC, it’s the nearest thing we’ve had to cricket in the village for many years so please feel free to come along and support the players.
The Coventry 20 Overs League commences on Thursday 8 th May with Meriden playing away to Banwait at Kenilworth Wardens. A fixtures list is on display at the Queen’s Head and Barkers Butts RFC or call Mike for more information.
The last cricket club quiz we held at the Queen’s Head in April was dedicated to the memory of David Haigh who passed away recently after a short but brave battle with cancer and with a huge thank you to everyone who so generously supported us, we raised over £400 for Cancer Research.
Thanks to Tom Jones, a member of the old Meriden Cricket Club, we have recently recovered a piece of treasured history. A cup which was presented annually to a Meriden player by the legendary R. E. S. Wyatt and dating back to the early 1930’s is now back with us. We hope to display it shortly.
As ever, we welcome new blood, young and old, as players and spectators, we look forward to seeing you.
Mike Gallagher Chairman 07775567889
Fun Day Fun Day
Bank Holiday Sunday 24th August 1.00pm onwards Back of the Queens Head Pub
This year we would like to make it BIGGER AND BETTER. We can only do this with your support We need
• Reliable people for help before during and after the event
• Charities & groups to organise stalls or games etc
• Plenty of you to turn up on the day & have fun raising money for local charities and organisations
Get your team together for the tug of War Competition
Pony rides, Tombola, Welly Wanging, Bouncy Castle, Coconut Shy, BBQ and lots more
Contact Mike on 01676 521085
E: mikegallagher@talktalk.net Tina on 07809 573313 E: tina.hyde@talktalk.net
Quiz Night Quiz Night
On Thursday 5th June
7.30pm at Queen’s Head Pub Old Rd Meriden
Presented by your ever popular Quizmaster
Entry £1 per head (max 5 persons a team)
Six a Side Competition Six a Side Competition
Six a Side Competition Six a Side Competition
Sunday 10th August 12noon
At Barker Butts RFC Pickford Grange Lane
Come along and enjoy some fun cricket, support the players, enjoy a drink from the bar and a bite to eat from the BBQ
A great day out for everyone
For more info phone
Mike 07775567889 Terry 07970119142
Diary of Events 2008 Season
Every Tuesday 6pm nets practice behind the Queen’s Head Meriden, we welcome all prospective players.
Thursday June 5th Quiz Night at the Queen’s Head, Meriden 7.30pm.
Sunday 22nd June Sunday Cricket at Barkers Butts RFC, 2pm onwards.
Sunday 20th July Sunday Cricket at Barkers Butts RFC, 2pm onwards.
Sunday 10th August Diane King Memorial Trophy Sixa-Side Tournament at Barkers Butts RFC, 11am onwards.
Sunday 24th August Meriden Cricket Club Fun Day, Back of the Queen’s Head Pub, 1pm onwards.
Monday 25th August Meriden Cricket Club Cricket Fun Day at Barkers Butts RFC 2pm
Saturday 6th – Sunday 7th September Visiting Tour at Bideford, Littleham & Westward Ho Cricket Club
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.
June 2008 11 th Sub Committee Meeting 23 rd Parish Council Meeting
July 2008 16 th Sub Committee Meeting 28 th Parish Council Meeting
August 2008 6 th Sub Committee Meeting 18 th Parish Council Meeting
Should you wish to contact your Parish Council please contact the Clerk:
Mrs J Hall
111 Fillongley Road
Meriden
NEIGHBOURHOOD CO-ORDINATOR
SUSAN EAST TEL: 0121 704 6435 neighbourhoodmanagementarea3@solihull.gov.uk
Your Parish Councillors are: Rosie Weaver (Chair); Bob Kipling (Vice Chair); Graeme Goodsir; Shirley Goodsir; Marilyn Hamilton; Melanie Lee; Sarah Markham; Will Markham.
Your Parish Councillors’ photographs were in the last issue of the Meriden Mag. They are also at the Library and on the Website.
1) COMMUNITY SURGERIES
PC Sharon Williams representing the West Midlands Police along with Susan East your Neighbourhood Coordinator from Solihull MBC will be available for you to discuss any issues at Meriden Library on Monday mornings from 10.00am – 12.00 noon on the following dates: 16 th June, 14 th July, 15 th September, 20 th October, 17 th November, 15 th December.
2) DOG FOULING
May we respectfully remind dog owners of the Solihull MBC Dog Control Order making it an offence for a person in charge of a dog within Solihull Borough to fail to remove dog faeces deposited by that dog for which they were responsible. There has been an increasing amount throughout the community especially along the verges adjacent to the school and even just outside the school gate. The following health risk information has been received from Meriden Surgery:
Animals including dogs are known to carry disease and parasites including a variety of zoonotic organisms capable of causing serious illness in people. Most often quoted is Toxocara canis, which can pose a significant risk to children. Dog owners should ensure that their dogs are regularly inoculated on the advice of a vetinary surgeon. If this were done and every dog owner treated their dogs regularly with a worming preparation and cleared up after it, diseases such as Toxocariasis, would be virtually eradicated. Toxocariasis most commonly effects children and can, in some cases, lead to blindness
Please respect other residents especially the school children and clean up after your dogs. Bags can be obtained from Meriden Library.
3) PARISH COUNCIL AUDIT
Notices will be posted end of May displaying Audit Date 21 st July with a summary of elector’s rights for Year End Accounts 2007/2008.
4) BRITAIN IN BLOOM – NATIONAL AND REGIONAL COMPETITIONS
We are pleased to advise that Solihull MBC have been invited to enter the National Britain in Bloom competition for the first time this year. Our Green has been selected as one of the sites for judging for both the National and Regional Competitions. We would therefore ask that residents respect the grass on the Green and treat it as it should be treated.
5) BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION 2008
Meriden Parish has again entered the “Best Kept Village” competition and judging will take place in May.
6) UPDATE ON DEVELOPMENT AT MAXSTOKE LANE
At the time of writing, the up to date position is that Bryant Homes who were selected by Solihull MBC as the preferred developers of the existing and new playing fields have withdrawn their tender offer due to a fall in the housing market. Further detailed information as to the decision is awaited. Updates will be posted on the Parish Council notice boards, the website (www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk), the Library and The Centre.
7) FOOTBALL ACADEMY FOR CHILDREN
Heart of England Alliance will be running a training camp at Maxstoke Lane playing fields starting on the 26 th July 2008 and hoping to run every Saturday morning throughout the summer holidays. They are offering top quality football coaching for children aged 5 to 14 of all abilities in a fun and safe environment. All staff are CRB checked and are First Aid trained. For more information and to register your interest please telephone Matthew Bamber on 07515 870041 or the Clerk on 522727.
8) MERIDEN PARISH APPRAISAL AND PLAN
The Household Survey 2008 questionnaire has been distributed to all households in Meriden Parish by resident volunteers. We hope you have had the opportunity to complete it either through the on-line version or through the paper version. Please try to complete it by 31 st May at the latest. If for any reason you are unable to meet this deadline, let your volunteer collector know or phone Iain Roxburgh on 522496 and a special collection can be made up to 7 th June. Please visit http://meridenhousehold.esos-survey.co.uk to complete it on-line. If you prefer to complete the paper version you can give it to the collector or drop it off at the following collection points:
• Meriden Library, Village Green
• Meriden Surgery, Main Road
• The Centre (Charity Shop), Village Green
• Blitz Beauty Salon, Birmingham Road, Millison’s Wood Spare copies are also available at the above collection points. And don’t forget to enter the free prize draw . There are seven prizes on offer ranging from retail vouchers to family days out at the Meriden Archery Club and Drayton Manor Theme Park. The winners of the draw will be announced at the Heart of England Social Club on Tuesday 1 st July from 7:30pm. Please come along and meet the Appraisal Steering Group. The more questionnaires completed, the more Meriden Parish will be taken seriously by the public authorities and it will lead to us achieving Quality Parish status.
9) TENNIS COURTS
Due to vandalism the tennis courts on Maxstoke Lane playing fields are locked. Keys can be obtained from the Spar and Clerk. However, this has not stopped glass bottles continually being thrown over the top of the fencing, smashing on the courts rendering them unusable. Two volunteers have kindly agreed to remove the glass on a weekly basis and the Parish Council would like to thank them. If you would also like to volunteer please contact the Clerk.
Local Election Results
Councillor David Bell
An interesting election with 90 candidates contesting 17 seats across the Borough. The Votes cast overall were 27,080 for the conservatives 4532 for labour 15,576 for the liberal democrats and 9567 votes for the green party, UKIP, the BNP etc.
Councillor Dr Peter Lea returned for a further four-year term with the largest majority of the night capitalising on the 44 years that he has lived and worked in Meriden. Elsewhere there were upsets. In Blythe, Maggie Allen the deputy leader of the Libdems was defeated by Martin McCarthy (Con). Hugh Hendrey leader of the Labour party, and with 18 years service on the Council, was ousted by Mike Sheriden of the Green Party. In Kingshurst and Fordbridge another longstanding labour councillor, John Kimberley, was defeated by Debbie Evans (Con) and in Bickenhill long time campaigner and former Independent Jim Ryan was successful standing as a Conservative. The Conservatives move therefore from no overall control to being the largest party and the controlling group and the make up of the council is now as follows:
Conservatives 26 - up 2.
Libdems 18 - no change.
Labour 5 - down 2
Greens 1 - up 1
BNP 1- no change
Independents 0 - down 1
EXOTIC THAI
DEE HAS MOVED TO 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
DR MICHAEL PLATTEN 1915 - 2008
Many long-standing residents of the village will be sad to hear of the recent death of Dr Michael Platten, aged 93, who was General Practitioner in the village for many years.
He qualified as a doctor at Birmingham Medical School in 1942, following which he served in the Royal Navy for the latter half of the war. He spent most of his wartime service in destroyers, escorting Russian convoys in the icy seas of the Baltic.
After the war, in 1949, shortly after the inception of the National Health Service, he came to Strawberry Bank in Meriden, where he took over the practice from Dr English.
Not only did he launch into the unstinting medical care of his patients “from Cradle to Grave” but he also became an active and dedicated member of the community at large. He served as a Parish Councillor and was a School Governor. He founded The Meriden Old Peoples’ Welfare Association and as a staunch Anglican, served for many years as Vicar’s Warden at St. Laurence Church.
Dr Platten was a very conscientious and caring doctor and after many years, it took a toll on his health, resulting in his retirement in 1972. However, his parting gesture to the community, in order to meet the needs of the growing number of residents, was to instigate the move of the surgery from Strawberry Bank to the Old School House, which is still Meriden’s surgery today.
In retirement, he first lived at Builth Wells and later moved to Oxfordshire to be nearer his family. He died at a home there in January of this year and three of his former partners were able to represent the practice and the community at his funeral. He leaves a daughter, Angela and a son, Michael. His older son and his wife, Elizabeth, pre-deceased him.
ROY RICHARDS 1931 – 2008
Roy Richards was the Midlands’s businessman who founded the National Motorcycle Museum, the world’s largest collection of British motorcycles.
Roy was born in 1931 and attended Bordesley Green Technical School. After leaving school at 14 he went into the building industry and eventually set up the building firm of Richards & Wallington with partner Ray Wallington.
Being passionate about motorcycles all his life he decided in 1984 to open the National Motorcycle Museum to span the “60 Glorious Years” of motorcycling manufacture in Britain.
In 2003 a fire destroyed 70% of the museum but Roy set to work with a dedicated team of helpers and the museum was rebuilt and reopened in December 2004.
The Manor Hotel Meriden and the Windmill Village Hotel at Allesley are part of a trust for the museum’s future maintenance and survival.
Roy Richards lived in Catherine de Barnes, he was married four times and is survived by his wife Christine, a son and daughter and three stepchildren.
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
Mirror Image
The Green Meriden 01676 523669
Come and visit our new friendly Salon in the Village
• All Aspects of Beauty
• Top fashion hair styles for ladies and gents
• OAP days Tuesday & Wednesday
We will be closing at the end of July for several weeks for building work. But don’t PANIC!
Sharon, owner of Mirror Image can visit you at home, for all your hairdressing needs - call 07745188204
Also Melissa, our beautician will be doing home visits contact her on 07837655280
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING US DURING THIS TIME
Openingtimes
9.00-5.30
9.00-7.00
BALANCE HEALTH AND FITNESS
Brings SHAITSU to Meriden WHAT is Shiatsu?
An ancient form of treatment, working on the same principle as Acupuncture. The practitioner’s hands, elbows, knees and feet are used to activate changes in life energy of the person rather than needles. WHAT CAN SHAITSU DO FOR YOU ?
It works to help the body self heal thereby strengthening and rejuvenating.
HOW DOES SHAITSU FEEL TO RECEIVE?
The experience is very individual but we believe everyone agrees that it is a pleasure to receive and deeply relaxing.
Experience for yourself this safe and deeply effective therapy in the comfort of your own home or in a wonderfully peaceful setting at our local therapy room.
For further details contact Ernie Boxall or Anne Brown on 01676 521393 or 07862 216833
Initial treatment offer, saving £5
9.00-5.30
9.00-7.00
9.00-5.30
Like a dazzling jewelled tear, Dropping from the bright blue sky, You hear the pitter patter, Floating down from high.
It sways slowly swishing, From the dull brown branch, Dropping on the floor
Now it’s scared for sure.
Like a flashing cracked light bulb. With a shaded shadow, crying as it falls, Like a crystal silver crown’s jewel, Tickling our faces.
By Emily Hancox (9) and Ellie Ryan (8)
Places to go and things to do this Places to go and things to do this to go and to do this to go and to do this summer summer
Open gardens
Maxstoke Castle near Coleshill Sunday 15 th June
11.00am-5.00pm Some rooms in house also open, home made teas.
Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens
Chester Road, Birmingham phone for opening times 0121 74 9 4100
The Master’s Garden
Lord Leycester Hospital
Warwick open every day 10.00am – 4.30pm
Marie Curie Hospice Gardens
Warwick Road, Solihull
Saturday July 12 th 1.30pm-5.00pm home made teas.
What’s on at the NEC
Wednesday June 11-Sunday June 15 th
BBC Gardener’s World Live & BBC Summer Festival and Summer Good food Show
Friday July 24 th –Sunday July 27 th
Antiques for Everyone
Thursday August 14 th – Sunday August 17 th Festival of Quilts
Whitacres and Shustoke Horticultural Society 60 th Annual Show 26 th July 2008
Blythe Hall, Shustoke
Main Marquee filled with displays of vegetables, flowers and plants. Outside cattle, sheep and goats, a tent full of rabbits, a dog show and 3 rings of horse and pony classes. Schedules can be obtained from the website.
Visit St Mary’s Guildhall
Bayley Lane
Coventry
Open Sunday to Thursday 10.00am-4.00pm Easter to September 28 th
Free admission
Coventry’s best kept mediaeval secret
Located in the historic heart of Coventry, the majestic rooms of the guildhall provide a fascinating visitor experience for all ages brought to life by knowledgeable guides.
Cycle the Coleshill Cycle Route
This route is 33 miles in length and where possible, uses quiet country roads. It goes through Shustoke, Maxstoke, Meriden, Fillongley, Corley Moor, Astley, Ansley, Bentley Woods, Furnace End and Coleshill.
Details and map of the route can be obtained by phoning Kingsbury Water Park 01827 872660 or obtained from North Warwickshire Council’s website.
01676 534444
For all your dry cleaning and laundry requirements
Dry cleaning
Laundry services
Alterations
Shoe repairs
Curtains
Quilts
Bedding
Wedding gowns
Branches Throughout the Midlands Head Office and Factory - Garretts Green 0121 786 1792
What we can do for you
Is celebrating 25 years of working with and for older people in the Metropolitan Borough of Solihull this year.
• Provide regular respite breaks for carers of older people with dementia and memory loss
• Supply information & advice to older residents of the Borough and their relatives
• Provide befriending and social support and carry out small domestic tasks
• Provide small emergency hardship grants
• Run 6 week computer taster sessions at Solihull libraries (including Meriden)
• Run pop- in & social clubs
• Run a face to face service selling a range of insurance and other products such as the very popular Aid-Call Emergency Response system
Coming soon!
• Healthy eating and fitness clubs
What you can do for us
• Donate your time by volunteering for a wide range of interesting activities
• Donate your unwanted good quality clothes for sale in our charity shops
• Donate money or leave a legacy in your will
• Use www.easyfundraising.org.uk when you shop online and as your search engine – we get a donation from each sale.
To find out more you can contact us by: writing to
Age Concern Solihull, The Priory, Church Hill Rd, Solihull, B91 3 LF Telephone 0121 705 9128 insurance products 0121 7113849
Email info@solihull.fsnet.co.uk
Or visit our web site www.ageconcernsolihull.org
Registered Charity number 1055887
VILLAGE DIARY
This year’s draw will take place at Meriden Library on Saturday 12 th July at around noon. All proceeds to Macmillan Cancer support (Charity No 261017).
Once again there is an excellent range of prizes to be won thanks to the generosity of businesses both local and further a field.
Those to whom grateful thanks are owed are:
The Bear Berkswell, Birmingham Hippodrome, Blitz, The Bulls Head, Corley Canine Pool, Hatton Country World, Heart of England Group, John Lewis Stores, The Manor Hotel, Marriott Forest of Arden, Meriden Fish and Chip Shop, Notcutts of Shirley, Meriden Spar Shop, Ron Potter, Stonebridge Golf Club, Stratford Racecourse and Warwick Castle.
Unfortunately at the end of April I suffered another health scare, as a result of which I am not allowed to drive for a while. This is quite a setback when it comes to sales of tickets.
Therefore can I PLEASE ask for volunteers to sell tickets, maybe at your places of work or in your immediate location?
I truly would not choose to ask but I hope we can make the draw successful, not only to provide funds for such a deserving cause but also to justify the kindness of all who have provided the prizes!
Tickets will be available from Meriden Tea Rooms, Spar, Mirror Image, Blitz, Lloyds Chemist, Stars Newsagents and Corley Canine Pool. My thanks to them for their support.
Also to Norman Kimberley of Kimberley & Co accountants for the preparation of the Accounts yet again free of charge and to Jack Spencer who created the promotion signs for the draw.
THOSE OF YOU WHO FEEL YOU CAN HELP PLEASE RING ME ON 522138.
Sincerely, thank you so much & GOOD LUCK Alan Lole Organiser.
Reminder!! Deadline date for the autumn issue
Monday 4th August 2008 contact
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: Keith & Kath Nightingale 01676 522125
Proof Reader: Claire Rose
Useful Village Contact Numbers
mention The Meriden Mag
Police Priority Setting Meeting Friday 27th June 2008 7.30pm Balsall Common Village Hall
Police and council representatives will be at the meeting to help with any queries members of the public may wish to raise
