This is the new logo for Meriden Rovers Football Club, chosen by the children themselves and coach Paul Jays
See inside for how to paint this picture of the Bluebells in Millison’s Wood, which have been better than ever this year!
Inside this issue
Meriden’s Royal wedding celebrations
A chance to see inside
Meriden
Church Tower
Sunday 12th June
Plumber’s markings on the roof of Meriden Church from 17th Century
Meriden Raid update and fundraising events
Meriden Scouts
Enjoy camping at kinver
Messages from the Mayor of Solihull And Councillor David Bell
Thank you from the Queen’s Head
Lawrence and Caroline would like to thank everyone for such a lovely day on the occasion of the Royal Wedding. Together with Cancer Research we made it a real village event. We hope it was enjoyed by all who came. Special thanks to Nick (traffic control), all our bar staff- Amanda, Bob, Stuart, Steph, Emma, Steve, Colum and Tom. Also all the lads who set everything up – Bob Hewitt, Dave Tuckey, Kevin, Ralph, Andy and Lawrence.
Thank you from Cancer Research UK
Many local organisations joined us to celebrate the Royal Wedding at the Queen’s Head, where a Street party was held, with lots of events. Stalls from the W I, the Flower Club, Cubs & Scouts, St Lawrence Church, Meriden Rotary, Julie Hyde’s Art, Juci Luci’s cup cakes and a flowers and plant stall all contributed to the fun and the community feel of the afternoon. There were lots to eat and drink, novelty events and a raffle and tombola.
At the end of the day we were all very tired but agreed it had been wonderful and very worthwhile as we had raised about £2000 for “Local Volunteers for Cancer Research.” We would like to thank everyone who came along and the Queen’s Head for their help and support in running this event. Mary Warr Ladies, a date for your diary: Friday 30th September “In the Pink Evening” at Strawberry Bank Hotel.
Meriden School’s very own Royal Wedding. Seren is marrying Sam!
Hello from Meriden School
With the Easter holidays behind us, we have incredibly arrived at ‘Summer Term’ and at the time of writing this, the sun is actually shining on us! Let’s hope it remains and all the outdoor activities that are associated with this term are able to go ahead and not rained off, like so many times before!
The Cross of Nails arrived at our school just before Easter as part of its pilgrimage around Coventry diocese. Children and staff from Bournebrook School brought the cross to a joint act of worship and we held a wonderful service with Canon Eardley and Reverend Charlesworth the following day. The children completed some beautiful art work and it was a very moving experience for all as the significance of the cross became clear to all pupils, from our very youngest to the oldest.
This term started with us joining in with the wedding celebrations of our future King, William, to Catherine Middleton. The children (and staff) came to school dressed in red, white and blue, or in royal attire – several pretty princesses were spotted amongst the commoners! There was a special ‘Royal Wedding’ lunch and during the afternoon the children played games in the bunting adorned field and enjoyed a royal tea party!
Trips and visits - Two residential trips have taken place so far this term. Year 5 visited ‘Dunfield House’ on the Welsh border for a week of Arts and Music which culminated in a performance on the final day, an event which many parents attended. More recently Year 6 went to ‘Red Ridge’ in Wales for an activity packed week which included pot-holing, climbing and canoeing to name but a few of the things on offer. This was a well deserved break following their SATs tests in early May. Year 4 are also off to Chedworth Roman villas this term to enhance their learning about Romans.
Summer events – On the 7th July we will be holding a School Celebration Open Event. This will take place in both the afternoon, between 1.30 and 3.15pm, and during the evening from 5.30 to 6.30pm. Everyone is invited to come and look around school to see the wonderful work in classrooms and on display. It would be lovely to see parents, grandparents, other family members and members of the community on this day. Just drop in!
Charity Week in July will provide the annual opportunity for pupils to put efforts into raising money through lots of activities. This year our charity is ‘Help for Heroes’ and our children and families will, I’m sure, give generously once again to support this very worthwhile cause.
In the final weeks of term, on the 13th and 14th July, Key Stage 2 children will put on their annual performance. This year there will be an exciting production, which is promising to be spectacular! Also sports day will be taking place on the 12th July. Start crossing fingers now that the weather will be kind to us!
We will finish summer term with our End of Year Service at St Laurence’s Church and then will enjoy a final word from Year 6 as they leave us and move on to the next exciting stage in their education at secondary school. The children will all be looking forward to a well earned summer break and, whatever you are planning, everyone at Meriden Primary School wishes you all a fantastic sunny and happy time.
Lucy Winkler, Headteacher, Meriden CE Primary School
Summer Fayre Friday 1st July 4.00pm until 6.00pm
Refreshments inc. hot food, stalls, children’s games etc.
Admission 50p, children free
Meriden School Deputy Head Girl Skye-Louise and Head Girl Hattie handing over the Cross of Nails to the pupils of Berkswell School.
ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS ST LAURENCE NEWS
Lay Reader Peter Wright 01676 522414
www.stlaurence-meriden.co.uk
ChurchWardensJonathan Douglas 01676 522455
Linda Barnett 01676 523 277
Services are held every Sunday at 10.30 am
As you know the Parish is in interregnum, so we have no vicar at present, and so this slot is usually written by Peter Wright, who is a ‘Reader’ who takes a leading role in Meriden Church. Peter has been away a lot in April and May, so for this MAG you’ll have to put up with me, Jonathan Douglas, new Churchwarden this year. Linda Barnett continues as a Churchwarden as well this year, and Marian Theobald has stepped down. Thank you so much for all your hard work, Marian, and thank you that you are continuing to help, and also play the organ for us.
As I write, we have only recently celebrated this year’s very late Easter, and the very last of the work of restoring the tower is being completed. So, we can now say that the roof, the tower, the clock, and most of the windows have been beautifully restored, even the flagpole is useable again. We are still not able to ring the bells, as two of them are cracked, and ideally we would have a better heating system, but overall, compared to a few years ago, the building of the church is in infinitely better shape.
But why on earth has all this money been spent? The normal congregation here is quite a small group (growing, but still small) and would hardly justify it by itself. So was this just to keep the place open for the occasional wedding, baptism or funeral? It would be wrong to say that we know the restoration to be a miraculous sign from above, but it would also be wrong to say it is just the preservation of an interesting old building. What it shows is that our society is not finished with religion. In spite of some scientists and philosophers trying to tell us that religion is an illusion and a destructive influence, it has also done so much for good that it has inspired people here to build, re-build, and maintain a church for around 1,000 years.
Can and should this continue? Well the central message Jesus gave us, and the Church will never tire of saying this, is that we should always behave with love for all the people we meet, whether friend or stranger. Following this ideal undoubtedly improves our lives. Having a soundly maintained church as a big, physical building in the community is not a bad way to remind us of this and give us at least one place where we can focus on it. So next time you think society could do with a bit more love in it, find a way to visit our church; you should find some renewed inspiration!
St. Laurence services for June, July, August, and September:
1st Sunday of Month 10.30 am: Joint service with Methodists at the Methodist Church on the main road.
2nd & 4th Sundays 10.30 am: Holy Communion at St. Laurence Church.
3rd Sunday 10.30 am: Morning Service, joint service with Methodists, at St. Laurence Church.
Thursday 2nd June is Ascension Day, celebrated on Sunday 5th June. Sunday 12th June is Pentecost. Sunday 19th June is Trinity Sunday.
Church open days
Church flag flying days
2nd June Ascension Day
11th June HM Queen Official Birthday
12th June Pentecost Sunday
19th June Trinity Sunday
10th August St. Laurence Day.
(The Church is dedicated to St. Laurence of Rome.)
The Church will be open for you to visit every Sunday afternoon until October 23rd (except June 5th) for your interest, prayer, meditation, history, remembering someone, or just to be calm. It is open after morning service until 4.30 pm. It is also usually open on Thursday mornings, but please check with Linda Barnett if a visit on a particular Thursday is important to you.
A special opening on Sunday June 12th when there will be escorted climbing of the spiral staircase to see the clock room, bells and top of the tower. The staircase is narrow, steep and some of the steps are a bit wobbly, so only fairly fit people will be able to make the trip. There will be no fixed charge for this, but we would expect small donations.
Church restoration
Work on the Tower stonework should be complete by the time you read this, however funds are still urgently needed to pay for the work and to make sure Meriden’s ancient and beautiful parish church can continue to be open and useful for the community. Donations are still very much invited and can be made online through the church website www.stlaurence-meriden.co.uk as well as directly through the churchwardens or at church.
Sales of the specially published book on the church’s beautiful and distinctive stained glass windows, “The Faith at the Heart of England” will also help as half of the proceeds from each £10 copy sold goes towards the restoration costs. Copies are on sale in the church, or The Centre charity shop, or the Library, or by contacting the churchwardens direct.
With prayers and best wishes for the summer, Jonathan Douglas – Churchwarden.
For the very best for your dog, contact… Lesley Thompson, at
118 Fillongley Road, Meriden.
Telephone 01676 522405 also
“HOLIDAY HOME FOR SMALL PETS” RUN BY SOPHIE.
Telephone 01676 522405 for details
MERIDEN C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL OF E SCHOOL
Loveoflearning,achievementandcare forothers
Nursery Places for September Still available!
Come to our Celebration Afternoon/ Evening Thursday 7th July
1.30 – 3.15pm 5.30 – 6.30pm
We can offer:
• Places for children aged 3 – 11 years
• Before and After school care
• Residential visits, wide curriculum provision
• We are ‘at the heart of village life’ with easy access from Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull
• A school where children make excellent progress, enjoy learning together and are part of a caring community Tel: 01676 522488
Tom’s Butchery Tom’s Butchery Butchery Butchery Established 25 Established 25 years 3 The Green 3 Meriden
• Wide selection of bacon including dry cured English bacon
Minister: Rev Andrew Charlesworth BSc BA
In Meriden
Tel: 01676 533737 - Phone to arrange marriages, baptisms and funerals
Services: Sunday 10:30am (Junior Church and crèche for children)
Sunday evening 5:30pm (4th Sunday in month only)
Do you ever have those moments where perhaps you think someone is winding you up? A moment where perhaps you think everyone else is in on a joke except you? I have just got off the phone from the Dentist. I had to rearrange my appointment because my dentist is going on holiday and the receptionist told me the new time. My new appointment is 2:30! (Too THirty) I am guessing it is not a wind-up, but I will find out in July!
There are quite a few stories in the Bible, quite a few events described, which left people bewildered believing that perhaps everyone was in on some joke except them. In fact, we would probably say that two of the events fundamental to the foundation of the church fall into this category. The events of both Easter day and the events on the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem, both had people scratching their heads in disbelief
John’s gospel tells us the story of Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples. On the first night of the resurrection, Jesus appeared to his friends in the upper room, but Thomas was not there. When the other disciples tell Thomas that they had seen Jesus, despite everything he has already seen, despite the fact that he has good reason to trust his friends, he still cannot believe it. He says, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nail marks were, I will not believe it.”
In that story, we have an individual who is incredulous at the news of the resurrection. In the account of Pentecost in Acts Chapter 2, we have a whole crowd of people who cannot believe what they are seeing and being told. Pentecost is the time we remember that the Holy Spirit was poured out on the church and it is celebrated each year 7 weeks after Easter (12th June this year). The name comes from the Jewish festival of the same name, which came 50 days (hence Pentecost) after Passover.
As the Spirit was poured out on the disciples that first Pentecost, the Bible tells us that they were enabled to speak in many different languages. A huge crowd of people gathered to see what was going on and it caused quite an uproar. It all seemed too much to many and their response was to reach quite a straightforward conclusion. “These people are drunk”.
Now it was Peter who stood up in Jerusalem that day and explained that the disciples were not drunk, but these were just some of the amazing things that God had predicted would happen many years before. However incredible this all seemed to the crowd, they quickly experienced it for themselves and the Bible tells us 3000 people joined the church that day.
Now the events of Easter and Pentecost might seem far too strange for you to give them much notice today. Perhaps you think that those people who still follow Jesus are not necessarily drunk, rather they are one or two sandwiches short of a picnic! But the reason people keep going to church, the reason they keep trusting in Jesus, is despite how difficult to comprehend it all seems, when they experience it for themselves, they realise it is not a wind up at all. They know that Jesus is with them always. Love, peace and joy. Andrew
Diary Dates:
19th June, 4pm Kinwalsey Tree Service
The Methodist church Hall is available for hire, please contact Maureen Gabbitas on 01676 522148 for details
Luxury Holiday Penthouse in Spain
Fully equipped with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, private roof terrace, pool, TV and air conditioning
Queens Head Old Road
Road
Monday night is music night come along and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx
June 6th Justine Claire
13th The Shuffles
20th Mick the Knife
27th Cover Story
July 4th Stevie Best
11th TBA
18th TBA
25th Julie Christie
Aug 1st Terry Fox
ALLAN SMITH SLATING
8th Guy Surtees
15th VJ
22nd The Shuffles
29th Back Beat
Now serving Breakfast on Sunday mornings 10.00am-1.00pm Full English £5.25.
Pub lunches Mon – Sat 12.00- 2.30pm
Pop in for good food and a warm welcome 01676 522256
ALLAN SMITH SLATING AND TILING
Greetings
The Centre Charity Shop 01676 523050
As I’m sitting writing this I can’t believe just how beautiful the weather has been for nearly two weeks, it feels like summertime has arrived very early this year. I would like to start by thanking our fantastic staff for their hard work and dedication which makes working in the Centre so pleasurable.
Thank you also to the people who send in donations, it is great that most of them are sent in freshly washed as this cuts down the time it takes to get items out on the racks for sale.
If you have furniture or large quantities of donations it would be helpful if you could telephone first to check that we have space in our sorting room to accommodate it. It is also easier if you fetch things you are donating in containers that you don’t need back because we haven’t always got space to empty them immediately and cardboard boxes or bags can be stacked on top of each other if we are full up and allow us to fit more items in.
Solihull
We are always in need of black refuse sacks so if you have any to spare they are always welcome as we get through so many of them.
Remember if you would like prayer for anything, then please pop in to the Centre and let us know.
Now for news on Meriden Christian Fellowship (MCF)
When this publication arrives on your doorstep we will have started our Alpha Course. If you are interested in joining an Alpha Course then telephone the Centre 01676 523 050 and ask for Kevin and he will give you details of what’s happening and when the next one is likely to be.
We also do two house groups during the week one on a Monday night starting at 7:30pm and one on Thursday night starting at 6:00pm
The churches together in Meriden had a walk of witness on Good Friday which was well attended, and it was a lovely day for a purposeful walk around Meriden ending in a service at St. Laurence Church.
I don’t remember an Easter when the weather has been so agreeable (usually as soon as everyone breaks up for a public holiday the weather changes for the worse) what a welcome change.
If you would like to join us on a Sunday morning in the Scout Hall, which is just behind the Village Hall, then we would love to see you. The service starts at 10:30am.
For more information on what MCF is doing why not check out our web site. meridenchristianfellowship.co.uk
Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1v37).
Kevin & Lyn Hunt.
A Message from Caroline Spelman MP
AV REJECTED BY THE COUNTRY
After a fair opportunity for both sides to put their cases to the country, the ‘No to AV’ campaign won by a majority of nearly 68%, and 75% in the Solihull area. That is a very clear indication that we do not want to change our current system.
I met many people while out calling on doors or in shopping precincts during the run up to the vote and I was struck by how difficult the AV (Alternative Vote) system was to explain to people.
They easily understand the first past the post system – like the Grand National, as some pointed out to me, where we have a clear winner and we don’t squabble over who might have won among the also-rans!
The first past the post system is good for the country: it is clear and decisive. I believe that AV would have damaged our democracy by unnecessarily over-complicating our elections. Under AV, supporters of extreme parties would get their vote counted many times, while people who vote for one of the mainstream candidates would only get their vote counted once.
AV is expensive. The estimated cost of AV would be over £250 million – money that is better spent on essential services. Only three countries in the world use AV for their elections: Fiji, Australia, and Papua New Guinea. In Australia, 6 out of 10 voters want to get rid of it.
Our Prime Minister, David Cameron, honoured the Coalition’s agreement to hold a referendum on AV. Each side attracted politicians of different parties. They all had ample opportunity to explain their views to the public via the press and television as well as their own local campaigns. The public has now delivered its vote. We should put AV behind us and get on with the important task of delivering good government to this country.
Caroline Spelman Surgery dates
Friday 10th June 10.00am -11.30am 631 Warwick Rd
Saturday 11th June 9.00am -12noon Chelmsley Wood & Castle Bromwich
Saturday 6th August 9.00am-12noon Chelmsley Wood & Castle Bromwich
Friday 27th May 10.30am -12noon 631 Warwick Road
Meriden Mums and Toddlers Group
Meriden Methodist Church Hall
Tuesdays 9.30-11.30am
Craft activities, healthy snacks, outdoor play, cup of tea and chat for Mums and carers
£1.50afamilyandfirstsessionfree Contact 07921 766882 for more details
Painter and Decorator
All aspects of decorating undertaken
Free quotations available
References available on request
No job too big-No job too small
Established over 25 years
A reliable and friendly service
02476 460754 Mob 07902 343950
To contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery please contact Elizabeth Goodall on 020 7219 4189 caroline@carolinespelman.com
Great way to lose weight Don’t have to be a dancer
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COME AND VISIT US!
We offer a fantastic variety of fresh produce including bacon & sausages from our farm, a full butchery & delicatessen, local fruit, vegetables & free range eggs, handmade jams, chutneys, cakes & quiches.
Graeme, Shirley and family would like to thank everyone who attended Vicky’s funeral, sent cards or flowers, for all their kind words and thoughts since her sad passing on February 28th .We would like to thank everyone who helped us during Vicky’s bravely fought last few weeks at home, Julie Goodwin (Macmillan), all at the surgery especially Dr Camm and Dr Bhandal and the district nurses, in particular Jean. We appreciate all their help and support at this difficult time. A big thank you to Val Friend who was with us when Vicky passed away and was a great comfort to us both then and since. Finally thanks to Michael Deeley and Rev. Canon Eardley for their support and a lovely service.
Vicky Goodsir was born in Hampshire on May 16th 1933. She spent most of her younger life in the West End of London where she trained as a nurse. There she met Tiger, who was 30 years her senior and who was a Civil Engineer. Because he travelled around the country working, they lived in mobile homes. When he moved to Abelson’s in the early sixties they settled in Meriden and lived at 7 Fairfield Rise. Their daughter, Nicole, died in 1966 aged four.
In the late sixties, along with their son Graeme and a family friend Moggy (Stanley Moorhouse) they started entering local carnivals (Coleshill, Kenilworth etc). Tiger built the floats in the back garden and Vicky made the costumes, catering for around thirty children. Jacob the donkey who lived in the shed pulled the floats and great days were had by all. The Goodsirs then moved into a prefab at 9 Highfield, when, sadly, the prefabs were knocked down they moved into a new bungalow at 25 Highfield. There they won garden competitions for many years and had a menagerie of birds and animals. Vicky was a larger than life character with a good heart. She fought ill health all her life and worked very hard. She loved her family and her animals and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
CELEBRATION CAKES CELEBRATION CAKES
Solihull - High Street
1st Friday in month 9am – 3pm
Kenilworth - Abbey End
2nd Saturday in month 9am-2pm
Warwick - Market Square
3rd Friday in month 10am-3pm
Leamington Spa - bottom of Parade
4th Saturday in month 9am-2pm
Coventry - Market Way
2nd Thursday in month 9am-4.30pm
Coleshill - Church Hill
4th Friday in month 10am – 2pm
Do you want someone to do all those household jobs you haven’t got time for?
Then call Jenny now on 07901 530861 Domestic cleaning, Office cleaning Professional cleaning service
West Midlands Country Markets Ltd
A weekly market is held at Balsall Common Village Hall, Station Road CV7 7EX every Saturday from 10.00. - 11.00am
and preserves
Plants and seasonal vegetables Crafts and home made cards For more details call June Smitten On 01676 523007
Cyclesolihull, the volunteer-led group which encourages more people to cycle, has launched its summer programme of community cycle rides. There is a range of regular rides, from 5 miles to 30 miles long, starting from various places in the Borough. New this year is a short, 5 mile, monthly 'Taster' ride for anyone who just wants to give the rides a try. These rides and a number of other 'Family Rides' are also ideal for families with children who are getting used to cycling on quiet roads. All the rides go at a leisurely pace, have a relaxed friendly atmosphere and include a refreshment stop. Apart from the benefits of doing some healthy exercise, they are also a great way of exploring the local countryside as the routes use most of the many miles of quiet lanes in and around Solihull. Most of the rides are on Sunday starting at 2 pm but during the lighter months there is also a weekly midweek evening ride starting at 7 pm. To join a ride - just turn up at the start point with a roadworthy bike. Full details of ride dates and start points may be found at www.cyclesolihull.org.uk
BALSALL COMMON U3A
87th Fillongley Show
Sunday 14th August Stonehouse Farm, Corley, CV7 8AG from 9am.
Further details regarding attractions and schedules can be obtained from our website fillongleyshow.org.uk or our secretary
Mrs Cheryl Brookes on 02476 460287 or 07779 558257.
recently had its fourth AGM when after four years of a five year tenure Anne Santos stepped down. Anne felt change was necessary for an organisation to expand and grow. She welcomed Mary Dawson as chairman of the group. In her inaugural message Mary said
“Our thanks are due to Anne for her extremely hard work, research, enthusiasm and dedication in establishing what has become a healthy, vibrant society. I am delighted that Anne is now Life President of Balsall Common U3A.
In taking up the Chair, I hope to further encourage the progression of our U3A with existing and new members all of whom will be given a friendly welcome with encouragement to support the Group Co-ordinators in the many varied activities. New Group Co-ordinators will also be given full support – so if you feel you could establish a new interest group - possibly with a partner, please do come forward and members will be encouraged to join you."
Information from – info@balsallcommonu3a.org Or visit our website www.balsallcommonu3a.org
The 24 hour protest against the unlawful (and awful) development in Eaves Green Lane is now into its second year and residents show growing determination to achieve their twin objectives of
1 Defeating the appeal by the developer - returning the land to ‘green’ belt (The Public Inquiry resumes on the 11th of July)
2 Working with the Government and others to bring about reform in the Planning System itself which currently rewards (and therefore encourages) the type of unauthorised development we have seen in Eaves Green Lane
I am pleased to report that the Government’s policy towards traveller site provision is changing as I write and it is consulting on new measures aimed at tackling ‘flaws’ in the current Planning System which actually encourage the type of development experienced by residents in Meriden, Beausale, Barnacle and many other villages across the country. The perception is that travellers have special rights to develop in the green belt and (say the Governments new policy document) ‘this is evidenced by data from the Planning Inspectorate that suggests that between 2006 and 2009, 60% of planning appeals for traveller developments in green belt were allowed compared to just 19% over the same period for minor housing appeals from the settled community’. And so, ‘copycat’ developments have sprung up across the country from Gypsy and traveller developers who seem intent on bypassing the views of local people and the Council preferring instead to seek planning permissions via the appeal route. This costs the tax payers huge sums in the ensuing legal actions, unsettles community cohesion and generally gives the wider Gypsy and Traveller population an undeserved bad image
In a nutshell, the changes aim to reduce the number of unauthorised developments whilst encouraging more authorised sites at appropriate locations. The local Council would have a greater say in determining applications and there is a distinct emphasis on protecting the green belt. RAID will be co-ordinating our response to the new proposals as well as the response from villages across England who have had the ‘Meriden experience’. The Government document adds: ‘unauthorised sites are often located in unsafe or unsuitable places, lack basic facilities causing a health hazard for those who live there or nearby, environmental damage and an eyesore for neighbours. This too can be avoided with appropriate planning for official sites’
What should be remembered however is that this is not a commentary on the Gypsy and traveller community in general as most (90%) of the (estimated) 300,000 population in England live in bricks and mortar accommodation. Also, of the 18,146 Gypsy and traveller caravans in England most (14,510) are on authorised sites. The problem relates to the rest: developers who buy and attempt to force development at inappropriate locations (attempting to exploit special rights to develop in the green belt) or those without land who simply ‘circulate’ staying at public parks etc. Let us hope therefore that the new proposals can provide a fairer deal for everyone, deter unethical development whilst protecting our green and pleasant land. RAID maintains its determination to achieve both objectives
For further information visit www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/travellersitesconsultation
David McGrath Chairman Meriden RAID (Residents Against Inappropriate Development) Visit www.meridenraid.org.uk
Campaigners marking the 365th Day at camp
Duck Race Saturday 9th July 3.00pm
Friday 24th June 7.30pm
Brailes Farm Fillongley Road
Meriden
Fun evening with Games, Disco, BBQ, Bar
Tickets £5 from camp or Kate 01675 443623 mobile 07761826854
Patrick Farm Hampton in Arden Ducks on Sale £1 from Camp, Berryfields & Meriden Post Office. Prizes £100 £50 £25 £10
Bring your own food, Barbecues provided
Joan Russell 01676 522666
In March Ray Sturdy gave an illustrated talk about life in Tibet showing us the huge contrast between the differing lifestyles in the modern Chinese-inspired cities and the traditional simple way of life elsewhere in the country.
April brought Susan Moore and her research into the history of village schools in this area. Her talk was called “Bare Bottoms and stinging Nettles” a reference to Astley school in the 1920’s when the boys regularly poked nettles through the small doors at the back of the girls toilets when the girls were using them! Ouch!
There was a change to the planned programme in May as we needed to discuss the resolutions that will be put forward at the forthcoming A.G.M... One resolution urges H M Government to maintain support for local libraries and the other concerns proposed ‘mega farms’. Sarah Whitelock from the NFU came to lead the discussions and answer questions. A lively debate followed.
On 19th May some members will attend the Meriden Group meeting with four other institutes from the Coventry area. The speaker will be Kevin Winterburn, his topic ‘A trip to the Antarctic on a motorbike’
Elizabeth Spencer Future programme:
Wednesday 1st June – Children’s craft morning
Monday 6th June - Maggie Cotton ‘Orchestral Notes’
Monday 4th July - Sue Clegg ‘Waterborne in Grenadines’
Monday 1st August - Members evening
Come and discover how the beautiful flowing movements of this ancient art can improve your well-being. Relax and enjoy
CAMEO CAMEO
Come and Meet Each Other at the Community Centre on the 4th Friday of the month at 2.00 p.m.
CAMEO CAMEO 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 Heather Mills gave an interesting talk about the prayer shawl ministry. Heather showed us examples of the shawls knitted by church members at Earlsdon Church for people who are sick, bereaved or in need of comfort in any way. In addition to shawls, they also knit scarves for students leaving for university and lap blankets for the elderly or blankets for the stillborn at Walsgrave Hospital. Names are put forward together with a small amount of information. The knitters meet in a group once a month. When the shawl has been completed it is blessed in a church service. Heather writes a prayer specifically tailored for the recipient and we were shown extracts which were extremely moving. The gift is then given privately wrapped in tissue and placed in a pretty bag alongside the prayer.
At our March meeting we heard about the work of the Torch Trust. In the 1950’s Ron and Stella Heath tried in vain to find Christian resources in Braille for a young blind girl who came to the church youth group they led. They learned Braille and started to transcribe booklets. The Heaths came across a little Christian magazine called ‘The Torch’ which they agreed to take on and so the Torch Trust of today had started. The Trust is a non-denominational Christian organisation which provides Christian literature in audio, Braille and large print books of all types including bibles, bible reading notes, hymn books, scripture text calendars etc. Fellowship Groups meet informally on a monthly basis to compliment church and provide essential companionship to often lonely people. They also run a Holiday and Retreat Centre in Sussex .The Torch Fellowship Group model has been taken up in Eastern Europe and across Africa to provide Christian literature, fellowship and personal support for blind and partially sighted people.
In April Valerie Bennett demonstrated how to make origami cranes. She told us the story of the 12 year old Japanese girl called Sadako Sasaki who died in 1955 from radiation sickness from the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. She had believed that if she made a thousand cranes she would stave off her death A thousand cranes has now become a world symbol of peace and reconciliation and are still today left by people visiting Hiroshima. Members discovered for themselves that they are not the easiest things to make and we required a great deal of assistance from Valerie! We look forward to welcoming more friends to our meetings so if you need information or a lift please telephone: Ellen 522534 or Pam 523372
Forthcoming Meetings:- June 24th – Holiday at Home July 22nd – Strawberries and Poems August 25th – Celebrating CAMEO’s 10th Anniversary.
A Message from the Mayor of Solihull A Message
As I write this final Mayoral report, Sheila and I are just three weeks away from 24th May, when we hand over the Mayoral Chain; at the moment, we do not actually know the name of our successor. Since the last edition, we have continued our busy pattern of events. The Mayor's Ball at the Motorcycle Museum was a great success and over £12,000 was raised for Macmillan Cancer Support and Mayoral charities. Sea Cadets from T S Gamecock in Shirley gave us a drill display and they were very impressive indeed. They have won commendations for the standard of their performance in competitions.
Two highlights need to be mentioned. On 24th March, we were pleased to host in the Council Chamber the launch of Marie Curie's "Big Build" appeal for their new hospice in Solihull, to replace the present very aged Warren Pearl, which has done such remarkable service over the years for our Borough. Readers may recall the Mayoress abseiling down Fort Dunlop last September, raising £2,000. We do need this new hospice - please do support the appeal in any way you can. (Picture shows the Mayor and Mayoress with nurses Sue Mobey and Alison Odley)
Sheila and I have been very taken by our involvement with schools during our period in office. We have received many visits to the Civic Centre from schools
Not only do the children gain an invaluable insight into the workings of local government and democracy, and what the Council does, but they also gain self confidence and learn self expression. During our visits to schools, we have been impressed with the role and performance of school councils, one of which we took part in. Each serving Mayor or Mayoress normally makes a gift to the Borough at the end of his or her term and Sheila and I decided to commission a replica of our chain (always a source of fascination), which can be loaned out to schools for use on special occasions, together with a gavel and block crafted by a member of Solihull Rotary Club.
ROTARY THE ROTARY THE ROTARY THE ROTARY CLUB OF MERIDEN OF MERIDEN
The 7th Meriden Motorcycle Megaride takes place on Sunday 12th June 2011 in the grounds at the back of The Queens Head, Meriden. Motor bikes arrive from 11.30am. (See advert back page)
The Megaride is supporting the charity CLIC Sargent. This charity helps children and young adults with cancer and leukaemia.
I would like to thank Neville Riley, Rotarian in Meriden Rotary Club and his Committee who have planned and worked very hard all year to make this event a success.
Thanks must also go to the generous sponsors, advertisers and all who will be attending on the day supporting this event.
We hope the weather will be good and look forward to seeing you for a very enjoyable day.
Jane Maugham 01827 705950 President of the Rotary Club of Meriden
Also on the subject of schools, we were invited to watch four schools take part in a mock trial competition at the Magistrates Courts in Solihull. We saw some very impressive performances from the young people involved, who were all very convincing. However, it would be good to see many more schools become involved in this exercise.
We have had several visitors from overseas, including from our twin Cholet, a town about thirty miles south of the Loire, and also from Sweden. A number of our schools are involved with exchanges and other activities and I am hopeful that we can collaborate on more cultural and work experience projects. Two of our chefs from the NEC have spent some time studying at the catering school in France.
The Mayoress and I would like to thank the citizens of Solihull for their tremendous support during our time in office. What a wonderful Borough this is and how proud we have been to have served during this last year.
Ian & Sheila Courts
Mayor and Mayoress of Solihull
(Meriden Rotarians and Balsall Common residents)
For MOT, service, tyres & exhausts call:
GARAGE
024 7659 7879
KENSINGTON GARAGE EARLSDON
024 7667 0054
Courtesy car, collection & delivery options call Brendan McManus direct on: 07958 518924
S
We service, repair and care for your vehicle
Meriden Village Hall is available for private parties etc. Rates are £10 per hour
Contact Valerie Martin 01676 522963
Berkswell Village Museum
A hidden Gem in Solihull
Special exhibition for the Royal wedding
The museum is open on Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from May to the end of September from 2.00 to 5.00 pm and at other times by request. Admission is free but donations towards the running costs are very welcome. If you would like to be involved with the museum either as a Sunday steward or even serve on the committee please contact 01676 522077 for more details.
WECARE FOR YOUR TREES
PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGEONS TO BRITISH STANDARDS 3998
FORESTRY TRAINING COUNCIL APPROVED
FULL LIABILITY INSURANCE UP TO £5 MILLION
FELLING
PRUNING
HEDGE TRIMMING
STUMP REMOVAL
CROWN REDUCTION & THINNING
CABLE BRACING & PINNING
PLANTING
OFFERING A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE BUILT OVER MANY YEARS TO ENSURE A PROFESSIONAL & EXPERT SERVICE. FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE PLEASE CALL: DUNNS TREE SERVICES
In winter why do we try to keep the house as warm as it was in summer when we complained about the heat?
Berkswell and District History Group
The aim of the History Group is to give its members and the general public the opportunity to acquire information and understanding on items of historical interest through meetings, visits and research projects. We normally hold a meeting or a visit in each calendar month.
Thursday 9th June Whole Day Trip to Bletchley Park. Departure at c.9.00am from Balsall Common & Berkswell Cost £22.50 per head including Coach Travel, Drivers Gratuity, Entrance, Refreshments on Arrival & Guide at Bletchley Park. Leave Bletchley Park at c.4.30pm. This trip is available to Members & Non-Members.
Tuesday, 12th July Guided Tour of Lord Leycester Hospital, Warwick. This visit is restricted to Members.
Wednesday, 10th August 7.45pm for 8.00pm start.at Berkswell Reading Room. Non-Members Welcome. Dramatised Presentation by Gillian Andrews. “Shakespeare’s Women – Upstairs & Downstairs.”
Admission to meetings, including refreshments £3 non-members; £2 members.
Annual membership £5
For our full programme for 2011 and details of our publications, please visit our website: www.berkswell-history.org Telephone 01676 535782
EXOTIC THAI
DEE IS AT QUEENS HEAD PUB
OLD ROAD
MERIDEN
Exotic Thai cuisine cooked in the traditional Thai Way
OPEN 5 days a week Tuesday to Saturday
Food can be ordered between the following times:
Tuesday – Thursday 7.00pm till 10.00pm (closing)
Friday – Saturday 7.00pm till 10.30pm (closing)
Book in advance to avoid disappointment
01676 523740 Restaurant (Tuesday to Saturday - evening only) or 01676 522256 Queens Head (all other times)
The management reserves the right of admission
Warwickshire WildlifeTrust
The Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park, Solihull
SpringHalfTerm
All workshops are 10.30 - 12.00 noon
Monday30th May:FantasticFrogs
SummerHolidays
All workshops are 10.30 - 12.00 noon
Fromthe25th Julyuntilthe2nd September Search the reserve for frogs and toads. we have exciting workshops on every single day.
Try to catch some tadpoles in our pond
EventsrangefromFantasyDenstoMinibeast andmakeafrogmasktotakehome. Mayhem! Comeandjoininthefunwithusand take part in Build a Bug, Teddy Bear’s Adventures, Tuesday31stMay:BrilliantBugs
Treasure Hunting for Tots, Predator’s of the Pond, Come and find some creatures of the Discover a Dragonfly, Follow the Snail trail and many undergrowth on our reserve. more…. Learn all about bugs you can find in your own garden. Make a bug mask to take home.
Wednesday 1st June: Party at the pond for Tots
Thursday 2nd June: Wonderful Windsocks
Friday 3rd June: Fantastic Frogs for Tots
Similar events take place at Brandon Marsh Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry For details please phone 02476 302 912
Feel free to call us anytime for more information or to book 0121 704 0768
Cost of each workshop is £3.00 per child or £4.00 for non WWT Members
Highly Successful Business Woman
Expanding international £38 million turnover company into this area, now seeks working partners, initially part time, who must be ambitious and self motivated.
If you have supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or feel you wish to develop an extraordinary income, with profit share, car, free international travel programme, and a balanced and flexible lifestyle, then I would like to hear from you.
Call Gill Pritchard 01676 534020 / 07817 154596
Ongoing training and support for right people
Digging for facts is a better mental exercise than jumping to conclusions!
Heart of England Social Club
Come along and visit us!
The club offers a warm welcome, with excellent facilities for all, including a large concert room with live entertainment, lounge with the best view in the village, bar, games room, snooker room and beer garden with play area.
PC Technical Services
Tile
Home Computer Repairs, Upgrading & Problem Solving Telephone 024 7667 4952
Independent personal attention Internet & e-mail, Troubleshooting & tuition
PHYSIOTHERAPY REFLEXOLOGY COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES
Treatment for pain, stress, acute and chronic conditions
Alison Stain M.C.S.P., HPC., I.T.E.C.
The Therapy Centre, Balsall Villa 287 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common. Tel : 01676 522284
Sunday evening Bingo at 8.30pm
Room hire available for private functions
Heart of England Social Club Berkswell Road, Meriden 01676 522430 We now have
The Job Squad
Job Squad is not just for plumbing, carpentry, electrical repairs and general maintenance! We are available whenever you need a “spare pair of hands”.
Small odd jobs such as assembling flat-pack furniture, hanging pictures and televisions, changing light bulbs in awkward places, finishing that job you started! Our local handymen are always on hand to help. At a time that suits you, even evenings and Saturdays.
Visits during school day welcome all year
Bablake is a high-achieving independent school in Coventry for boys and girls aged 3-18, where individuals thrive as members of a happy, caring and ambitious academic community. For more information about fee reductions and transport arrangements, or request prospectus please consult:
onday 11th D
Meriden
Floral Society
Meetings are held at Meriden village Hall 7.30pm – 9.30pm approx
It is early May as I am writing this and the weather is lovely - long may it continue. Our thoughts surely turn to long summer days, evenings and to holidays and the Floral Society is no exception so after this month we have no Demonstration evenings until October. We have just a few items to mention before this:-
Monday June 20
The Lazy Days of Summer Andrew Lloyd Andrew is an exceptional demonstrator. This really is one evening not to be missed! He is an extremely talented man. It is sure to be a great evening. In July we go on our annual outing. August is our summer break.
Monday September 19
Practice Class Lorena Dyer
We begin our autumn season with this practice class. Please contact one of the ladies below if you would like to join us so that we can give you further details. A warm welcome awaits you. Have a great summer.
For more information please contact: Mo Reynolds 01676 521 457 June Brown 01676 522210 Margaret Barnsdall 01676 540 317
6 week Leisure Club
Membership From only £69
Offer available through July & August only. Holder entitled to full access of our fantastic leisure facilities including 3 gyms, 18m swimming pool, sauna, steam room and spa bath and 35 classes per week. Contact Marriott Forest of Arden on 01676 526107 for more information.
Isobel Mavis Clark passed away in March having had Alzheimer’s for many years. Originally from Sion Mills in Northern Ireland Mavis (as she was known) moved to Meriden with her husband Ron in 1966. They had 2 daughters and 4 grandchildren in their 50 years of marriage.
Mavis had worked at the Manor Hotel before her retirement where she was a valued member of staff and a well liked colleague and friend.
The family would like to thank everyone who came to the funeral at St Laurence Church and for their beautiful flowers and cards of sympathy. Many thanks also to Shirley Trafford who conducted such a moving funeral service and The Co-op Funeral Services, especially Luan the funeral director.
Mavis was much loved and will be sadly missed by Ron, daughters Joanne and Elizabeth, son-inlaws Bruce and Gary and grandchildren Jamie, Sam, George and Isobel.
ISOBEL MAVIS CLARK 1937 – 2011
Meriden Surgery 01676 522252
Opening Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00
When the Surgery is closed
The Practice uses a GP co-operative Badger for emergencies outside normal surgery hours. For details on how to obtain medical help when the surgery is closed please telephone 01676 532587
Repeat Prescription Requests
We prefer these to be ordered using the list attached to your previous prescription.
• Post to the surgery
• Hand to the surgery
• Fax 01676 523865 to the surgery
If necessary telephone requests will be taken between 10.00am and 12.30pm & 2.00pm-4.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. Please quote your computer number. 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN FOR ALL PRESCRIPTION REQUESTS
NHS Blood and Transplants
The next session for blood donors will be Thursday 14th July 2011 at the Heart of England Social Club 1.30 - 3.30pm & 4.30 - 7.30pm
Appointments available by calling 0300 123 2323
Home Visits
If patients are too ill to attend the surgery, or are housebound and need a doctor to visit them at home please telephone the surgery 01676522252 before 10.00am.
Comments
If you would like to make any comments, complaints or suggestions concerning the surgery please contact Joanne Hope, Practice manager on 01676 532213 or in writing to the surgery.
Please remember to cancel your appointment if you can’t attend.
Does this sound like you? Red, itchy watery eyes? Sneezing, congestion, Runny nose? Itchy or sore throat?
Then you could be suffering from HAYFEVER
More people are suffering from seasonal hay fever. It is an allergic reaction to the pollen of certain grasses, trees and flowers causing inflammation of the lining of the nose and throat The condition is treatable with anti-histamine tablets taken daily during the pollen season, nasal sprays and eye drops are also effective. These can be bought over the counter at the chemists and supermarkets. If your symptoms do not improve with treatment then please see your GP
Also visit the Knowle Book Fair Tuesday 12th July at the Guildhall, Knowle (near the Church) All proceeds to Oxfam
Plumbers’ markings from lead coverings of the roofs of Meriden Parish Church.
This interesting article has been written by Jonathan Douglas (our new church warden). Unfortunately there is not room to print it all, so part 2 will be in the Autumn edition of the Mag)
THOMAS BEWLEY PLVMBOR
(Anne - 1702 to 1707)
This again seems like a large repair rather than a complete recovering, as it refers to this side. The plumber appears to be the same man, Thomas Bewley, and if we assume that he also made the inscription, then he has been consistent in his use of I for J, but he has taken to reversing his Ds, which appear back-to-front. It is possible that the inscription records the day (28th November 1703) when the roof was damaged by strong wind, i.e. blowed off, and then does not record the date of
The following description of markings from the roof of St. Lawrence Church Meriden shows that the roofs of the main nave and probably the north and south side-aisles have been covered with lead sheet since at least the early 17th century. This writer does not know for certain when it was first covered with lead, but the markings show that lead was used from the 17th to 20th centuries and has been reinstated recently. The rectangular sections shown appear to have been cut out of the roof when the lead was replaced, the edges are quite rough. We can also see the thickness of lead sheet used each time. It is always substantial, but gets thicker through the ages.
THEES 6 SHEETS WAS CAST IN THA YEER 1694
THOMAS FEILD IOHN BALLISON CHVRCH WARDENS
THOMAS BEWLEY PLVMBOR
(William III & Mary II - 1689 to 1702)
The fact that this refers to 6 sheets may imply that this work of 1694 was a recovering of just part of the roof, maybe to repair a damaged or worn area. There is quite a lot of what we see as odd spelling, is Thomas Field’s surname Field or Feild ? I is used where we would use J (Iohn - John) and V for our U (Chvrch – Church).
The roof restoration and the more recent restoration of the tower stonework and roof, the windows and the clock, have left the church with a large financial debt. If you love your local church or if you feel it should be preserved, even if only so that you can be married there or have your child baptised, then you should help with these costs. Please donate whatever you can.
THOMAS HOLBECH 1628
JOHN HADDEN 1628
(Charles I - 1625 to 1649)
It is not immediately clear whether Thomas Holbech and John Hadden are plumbers or churchwardens, but probably they are the latter, almost certainly neither is the vicar. The initial ‘J’ of John is rendered as an ‘I’, which was quite common in the 17th Century. The inscription does not state whether they have covered all the roofs, but it seems likely that at least the whole of the nave roof was covered in lead in 1628. The letters of this inscription are very worn, but clearly legible.
THIS LEAD OF THIS ROOF WAS ALL OF THIS SIDE WAS ALL BLOAD OF NOVAMBOR THE 28 1703
THOMAS WISCOOT IAMES SMITH CHVRCH WARDENS
THOMAS BEWLEY PLVMBOR
(Anne - 1702 to 1707)
This again seems like a large repair rather than a complete recovering, as it refers to this side. The plumber appears to be the same man, Thomas Bewley, and if we assume that he also made the inscription, then he has been consistent in his use of I for J, but he has taken to reversing his Ds, which appear back-to-front. It is possible that the inscription records the day (28th November 1703) when the roof was damaged by strong wind, i.e. “blowed off,” and then does not record the date of completion of the repairs. Maybe we would write this as “The lead of all of this side of the roof was blown off on November 28th 1703.”
Events at Packington Hall Events at Packington Hall Events at Packington Hall Events at Packington Hall
Cream Tea on the terrace (hopefully!)
Thursday June 30th from 2.30pm. There will be a freshly baked scone with strawberry jam and a ‘cuppa’ for £4 per person then a leisurely wander round the garden. Bring your friends and join us. All profits will go to the St James the Great Packington Church restoration fund.
The
National Gardens Scheme
Open gardens
Lord and Lady Aylesford are opening their gardens for the National Garden Scheme on Sunday July 3rd at 2.30pm – 6.00pm
Admission £5, children free Packington & Maxstoke WI are selling homemade cakes & tea (not included in admission price)
Have you ever thought of visiting a NGS garden? There are about 3,700 gardens to choose from in England and Wales. Warwickshire offers 31 individual and group gardens, including ones nearby at… Packington Hall…open Sunday July 3rd from 2.30-6.00pm
Maxstoke Castle … open Sunday June 12th at 11am-5.00pm
The Quarry Garden… open for NGS on 1st, 2nd, 29th and 30th May from 10.30am-4.30pm
Most of the gardens that are open for the NGS are privately owned and open just a few times each year; others are open as part of a group which gets the whole community involved. Many gardens owners offer delicious home-made teas and there is often the opportunity to buy some of the plants you see growing in the gardens you have visited. Each garden charges a small entrance fee (typically £2 - £5 per adult, children are usually free), which then enables the NGS to make donations to its beneficiary charities. The NGS is a registered charity established in 1927 which keeps its overheads low so that most of the money raised at the garden gate goes straight to the charities. In the last 10 years the NGS has donated £25million. Its major beneficiaries are Macmillan Cancer support, Marie Curie Cancer Care; Help the Hospices and Cross Roads Care.
Free booklets listing just the Warwickshire NGS open Gardens are available from Garden Centres, Libraries and Tourist/Information Centres. All the gardens in England and Wales can be found in the NGS “Yellow Book” available from bookstores and stationers; and can be seen on the NGS website-www.ngs.org.uk.
So next time you see a bright yellow NGS Garden open arrow or poster at the roadside, why not come and enjoy a cup of tea and cake at these beautiful gardens and at the same time you will be supporting several worthwhile charities.
The NGS in Warwickshire is constantly looking for new gardens to join the scheme. Please do not be put off by what you see and hear on the television! We love pretty and varied individual or group gardens that can provide a happy afternoon’s outing for all ages. If you feel you would like to open yours please get in touch with us.
For a garden near you…..www.ngs.org.uk
This beautiful picture of the Bluebells in Millison’s Wood, this spring, was taken by Debbie Whitehouse
Millison’s Wood Bluebells by Julie Hyde
I’m sure that like me you took lots of photos of the bluebells again this year, so let’s have a go at painting them.
1. Lightly draw a suggestion of a couple of tree trunks and a wiggly pathway.
2. First layer, Mix separate puddles of:-
• Yellow
• Yellow and Blue (yellow/green)
• Blue
• Blue and a purpley Red (blue/purple)
• Weak Brown
Don’t make the colours too strong. Wet all of paper with clean water. Working with a big brush, from the top downwards add the colours. Add the yellows and greens to the top area. Do not cover the whole of the paper, leave patches WITHOUT paint on.
While the paper is still wet, add the blue, the purple and the green to the lower area in patches and a little weak brown to the path. If you clean your brush and dry it on kitchen roll you can then drag it up the tree trunks and it will lift out colour on the tree trunks. Let it dry.
3. Second layer. Mix a strong puddle of:-
• Blue + Yellow (blue/green)
Turn picture upside down. Wet the tree area with clean water with clean, right up into the sky area. Add the dark green to the lower edge of the tree line and let it run. With a clean dry brush, lift out tree trunks again Let it dry.
4. Leaves on trees. Mix strong washes of:-
• Lemon Yellow
• Cadmium Yellow
• Ultramarine Blue + Cadmium Yellow (blue/green)
With a clean, slightly damp sponge, dip into paint and lightly sponge patches over trees, this gives the affect of leaves.
5. Bluebells. Mix puddles of:-
• Blue
• Blue + Red (blue/purple)
• Blue + Yellow (yellow/green)
On the bottom two thirds of the bluebell area, lightly sponge on bands of blue then purple then green. Don’t sponge into the back area of the bluebells but if you do, dab with dry kitchen roll straight away.
6. Tree Trunks. Mix strong puddles of:-
• Blue + Yellow (blue/green)
• Blue + Brown (dark drown/grey)
Add the blue/green to parts of the tree trunks leaving some areas without paint. Add some of the darker colour in patches to the shadowy side of the trunk. Use these colours to add a few branches and distant trunks. Just add a few branches, only in patches between the clusters of leaves.
7. Shadows. Mix a puddle of:
• Blue + a touch of Brown (dark blue)
Sponge on a few shadows into the blue bells then using a brush paint on a few streaks from the tree trunks horizontally across the picture for the shadows.
8. Foreground. Add a few dots of Red on the edge of the path for a few Campion flowers. (See front cover for finished picture.)
Children’s Classes
Art Exhibition 16th and 17th July
Centre of England Arts is having is first Art Exhibition in it new home at Patrick Farm. There will be art work done by the students who attend classes there plus a few crafty things for you to admire and even buy!
We will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday 16th and 17th July 10.00am until 4.00pm. (Refreshment available)
We do hope that you can come along and see what we have been up to this year.
Centre of England Arts runs regular weekly classes in drawing and painting. We hope that in September we will also be running other weekly classes in photograph, needlework and a few more things.
We also run lots of one off workshops in all sorts of different arts and craft things such as pottery, stained glass, silk painting and jewellery making…
During the summer break we are putting together a series of workshops especially for children. We will have one off workshops in painting, clay modelling, T-shirt printing, make-up classes and much more… Look at the website www.COEA.co.uk or phone Julie on 01676 523357 or ask at the library for details.
Meriden Scouts enjoying their spring camp at Kinver
The Orme School of Dancing Meriden branch Methodist Church Hall
Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Freestyle and Contemporary Principal
These children performed dances from shows such as ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘On Broadway’ and ‘Wicked’ and performed their own ballet pieces from ‘Beatrix Potter’. All of the children really excelled themselves and are now looking forward to working towards their next dancing examinations.
The dancers come for lessons every Monday evening at The Meriden Methodist Church and have ballet, tap and modern jazz lessons as well as a lot of fun in a friendly environment. If you would like your child to get involved with dancing lessons and all that we offer then please call
Sandra Clarke on 02476 467271
The students at The Orme School of Dancing Meriden Branch took part in ‘Showtime 2011’ in March. It was another successful event for everyone involved.
1st Meriden Scout Group
News from the Green Hut
URGENT PLEA: The Cub Scouts need an adult helper on Tuesday evenings. No experience needed –just plenty of energy and enthusiasm required! Please contact Gerry Russell on 01676 522666 BEAVERS
In March on a lovely sunny Sunday we joined with other Beavers Scouts in the district to take part in Spring Watch Day at Pooley Country Park. One of the rangers took the children around the park where they saw the first signs of spring and played games. After a picnic lunch they took part in a number of craft activities laid on by the district including making butterfly kites, animal masks and pom- pom caterpillars. The children had a fantastic day and are looking forward to spending the day at County Camp in May.
CUBS
Having completed their scientist badge by conducting various experiments the Cubs are looking forward to starting their Global Conservation Badge. This will involve us looking at conservation issues not only around the world but also here in Meriden. In May we will be taking part along with 3,800 other youngsters in Warwickshire at our County Camp which is being held at Stoneleigh. The County are laying on some fantastic challenges and activities over the weekend including Laser Clay Shooting, Gladiator Duel, Water Wars and Kayaking. There will be a hog roast and camp fire on the Saturday night – look out for photos in the next issue of the Mag.
SCOUTS
In March the Scout troop went to Kinver for their spring camp. The weekend was spent in log cabins deep in the woods, where the activities included wood chopping, tower climbing, abseiling, archery, treasure hunts and many more fun games. Each day was spent within the woods and ended back at base with the usual toasted marsh mellows and sing song around the fire. Each of the Scouts worked towards their Outdoor Plus Challenge awards and also achieved their climbers activity badge. The troop will return to Kinver in June for another fun packed weekend. The Scouts are now learning all about back wood cooking and survival techniques.
Please contact the Leaders below if you would like to join – Go on, come and meet some new friends, learn something new and have FUN!!
Beavers: Girls and boys aged 6-8 years meet on a Monday at 6.30pm. Contact Lis (521080) Cubs: Girls and Boys aged 8-10½ meet on a Tuesday at 6.30pm. Contact Lis (521080)
Scouts: Girls and Boys aged 10½-14 meet on a Thursday at 7pm Contact Jim (523309)
We also need help from any adults out there that would be willing to spare some time with any of the sections – even if it is just for the odd hour or two each month.
Meriden Brownies have had a very busy year so far with plenty more activities planned for the summer term, including another rounder’s tournament with other packs from the district in June. We made lots of gifts for our mothers for Mother's Day, had a 'danceathon' to collect money for Red Nose Day (£300 so far), an Easter Egg hunt at Easter and our very own 'street party' to celebrate the recent Royal wedding. Unfortunately we have had no response to our recent appeal for helpers for next year or any interest from anyone wishing to take over from us when we 'retire' in July 2012. The waiting list will remain frozen and we again apologise for any disappointment caused by this decision.
If you are interested please contact: Jane 01676 542501 or Sharon 01676 522591
Balsall Common and District Horticultural Society Members Annual Flower and Produce Show Saturday 16th July
St Peters Church Hall
Balsall Common
Open to the public from 2.00-4.00pm
Plant stall, Raffle, Refreshments
Summer Fayre at the Firs Maxstoke Lane Meriden
Saturday 11th June 11am-3pm
Tombola
Raffle
Books
Plants
Cakes
Bric a Brac
Sandwiches & Sausage Rolls
Much more – free entry all welcome
Call Martin 01675 465 204 07922 241 181
Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA
This is history. Or maybe not.
I live on Turkey Hill in the Great Swamp, also known as the South Society of Farmington, but nowadays we just call it Kensington, which is really a section of the town of Berlin, the eastern part of which once was the Worthington Society. These “societies” were just parishes of what is now the Congregational Church, successor to the Puritans who used to run this place. What brings all this arcana to mind is my recent acquisition of a 1976 copy of “Connecticut Place Names,” published by the Connecticut Historical Society.
The great thing about this kind of history is that it’s a puzzle; it comes in bits and pieces, from hither and yon. Often the sources are dicey as hell, and a good bit of it is conjecture (something “seems to refer to” this or “might be a variant of” that) or is widely accepted as fact for no better reason than its wide acceptance as fact.
Which brings us to Meriden. As ever, this book holds no news about the origin of the name, but we do learn that “Bangall” is what one neighborhood used to be called — maybe because of a rowdy tavern that was there long ago, where they “banged all creation”; or maybe because of a noisy tin shop nearby; or maybe the name was taken from Bank Hall, in England; or maybe it came from “Eccentric Samuel Baldwin,” whose favorite expression was said to be “Bang it all!” We also read of a spot where a hunter “met a panther one night, with no particular consequences,” and we have to wonder why that ho-hum event was considered worth naming a place after. Quite often there are two or three explanations to choose from, so we can take our pick. Some are so mundane that they’re probably right: Dickerman Corner in Milldale seems to be so called because a guy named Serene Dickerman once made buttons there. And French Hill is clearly the place where a part of Rochambeau’s army encamped in 1781, on their way to make trouble for King George III.
But then we come to Pudding Hill, and the plot thickens. It seems that Samuel Woodruff moved there with his wife and six kids in 1698, making him “the first settler of the town” — an assertion with which the Indians no doubt would have differed. Anyway, here are the possible origins of the name: Either it came about because “for years they had nothing to eat besides game and fish except Indian pudding”; or from the “legend of a pudding so large it fell on and smothered three children”; or because “puddingstone has been found on the hill.”
What’s even tastier is that sometimes the book will come right out and say that there’s “no reasonable explanation” for a place name and “no plausible Indian word” it might have come from. And so, lacking a reasonable explanation, we get to pick and choose.
And some we just want to believe. Newell Rock, “on the Southington-Meriden Road,” was also called “Capt. Fisher’s Tavern,” or so the story goes, because a Capt. Solomon Fisher, “returning from a convivial barn-raising, made vigorous attempts to get into the rock, thinking it a tavern.” In more-modern language, he was plastered, bombed, spifflicated.
Which may cast a slightly different light on the Puritans we thought were so sober and prim. As does this: Queen Street. I’d always assumed that the main drag through Southington was so called in honor of some British royal or other — maybe George III’s German wife, Queen Charlotte. Not so, or so it would seem: According to the book, Queen Street was “named for a disreputable old halfbreed squaw, who got the name from early settlers.” Colorful?
Friends In Retirement
The social and activity group 'Friends in Retirement' FIRS – based in Balsall Common, continues to flourish. Members from here and the surrounding areas participate in a wide range of activities for people aged over fifty years for an Annual fee of £2.00.
The various groups include - Rambling, Ambling, Patchwork, Crafts, Art and Bridge. There is an active social scene with a Coffee Morning every third Friday in the month which is held at The Jubilee Centre, Station Road, Balsall Common - 10am to 12 noon and these will be held on Fridays on the 17th June, 15th July and 19th August 2011. Do come and join us for a chat and a coffee. The Annual General Meeting with free refreshments and a talk by Mike Miles on 'Baron Ash of Packwood House', starts at 2pm and is at The Village Hall, Station Road, Balsall Common on Thursday 11th August 2011. The Social group enjoyed a trip to Manchester in April –(no rain) and there is another trip to Melton Mowbray Pork Pie shop and Rutland Water on Tuesday the 7th June 2011. A further trip in September will be announced shortly.
For further information please contact the Chairman Mr Malcolm Gratton on 01676 523505
IDYLLIC GARDENS
IDYLLIC GARDENS IDYLLIC IDYLLIC
Design and Construction
Meriden library
01676 522717
Open Monday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm
Get online
If the idea of using a computer fills you with dread, or you don’t know Facebook from Google, we are here to help!
Myguides are free; drop in computer sessions for absolute beginners covering the basics. From using a keyboard and mouse to using the internet; email and searching online.
Computer taster course
We also offer a six week computer taster course, for the over 50s, where you can learn on a one to one basis with a tutor. These lessons are on a Monday morning and a small charge does apply. Please ask us for more details.
Family History
Researching family history has never been more popular or easier to do. Here at Meriden Library you can use the internet to help you with your research. Anyone interested in discovering more about their ancestors can use the Ancestry or Find My Past websites for free, with no charges for viewing search results. You can search the websites for lots of information, from Census results to marriages. Please ask us for more details.
Real time energy monitors
You can now borrow free real time energy display units from Meriden Library. These small units visually display both the amount and cost of electricity used in the home in real time making households immediately aware of their electricity usage. The units allow you to experiment with various appliances and lights to see how the different consumption rates vary. They are easy to fit and use and can be sited within the house close to any electrical socket. Previous research has shown that the use of these display units can result in people adapting their behaviour and reducing their energy bills by 5 to 10%.
The units are loaned on a ‘first come first served’ basis. You can keep them for up to two weeks; you will be asked to complete a series of questions, both at the beginning and end of the loan period.
Roll up; roll up for the summer reading challenge!
Meriden Library is inviting youngsters to take part in this year’s summer reading challenge.
‘Circus Stars’ is the 13th Summer Reading Challenge and it launches on Saturday 16th July. All children who register will be given an attractive collector’s card, which transforms into a pop up stage. For every two books that they read, children will receive a scratch and sniff sticker to put on their card and help the imaginary circus stars progress through their training stages ready for show time.
Other goodies include a bookmark and a fortune teller. Those that complete the challenge will receive a certificate and a medal in school assembly. The library is also holding a series of activities during the holidays so please look out for posters nearer the time. For more information about the library visit: www.solihull.gov.uk/libraries/meriden.htm or call 01676 522717
Meriden and World Book Night 2011
One million books were given away on World Book Night on March 5th 2011. Across the UK 20,000 “givers” distributed 48 copies of their chosen book from a preselected short list of 25 titles, though not each “giver” received their favourite book. The rest of the books were given to hospitals, prisons etc by the organisers.
In Meriden, Rosie Weaver gave away copies of Mohsin Hamid’s “The Reluctant Fundamentalist” to the library and to the Readers’ Group. The author grew up in Lahore and then went to Princeton University and Harvard Law School before working as a high-powered management consultant in New York. The book, written in a beguiling first person conversational narrative, parallels these experiences and narrates how the central character had difficulties settling into a foreign culture and eventually returned to his roots.
There’s another World Book Night in 2012 see http://www.worldbooknight.org/ Mike Watkinson
MERIDEN LIBRARY READERS GROUP
Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30p.m.to discuss books with a similar theme. Generally the meetings last for an hour and a half to two hours but June's is a bit special with a glass of wine so will perhaps take the full two hours.
Anyone who enjoys a good book is welcome and you can get details of the venue from the Library, which finds a wonderful selection of books on each subject for every meeting, or from Mike Watkinson on 521496
8th June - The book club celebrates its 20th Anniversary and the 100th anniversary of the Rev.Awdry’s birth with a selection of railway stories. Thomas the Tank Engine is almost fifty now but any book on railways fits the bill and travel books such as Paul Theroux's rail journeys to technical manuals or even Bradshaw’s guides are all on the menu..
13th July - Any book by a South African novelist.
10th August - For once we are all reading the same book, it's "The Reluctant Fundamentalist" by Mohsin Hamid Feel free to join us any time for a subject, which particularly interests you. It's always good to get new ideas.
Margaret Houldsworth
Freshly prepared food available all day, every day until 10.00pm and 9.30pm on Sundays
Come along and enjoy our:
• Set price menu, available: Monday – Saturday 12 noon – 5.00pm 1 course from £6.95, 2 courses from £9.95 3 courses from £12.95.
• Sandwiches and light bites available 12 noon - 5.00pm Monday - Saturday
• We also serve cracking roasts every Sunday from £9.50; as well as a sharing platter from £10.50 per person
• Children’s menu.
Sign up to the Bull’s Head Club at www.thebullsheadmeriden.co.uk For special offers!
The Award Winning Farm Shop The Award Winning Farm Shop The Award Winning Farm The Award Winning Farm Berkswell Traditi Berkswell Traditi Traditi Traditional Meats onal Meats onal Meats onal Meats
Larges Farm, Back Lane, Meriden CV77LD Larges Farm, Back Lane, Meriden CV77LD Larges Farm, Lane, Meriden Larges Farm, Lane, Meriden Tel 01676 522409 01676 522409
Since 1993, The Farm Shop has been providing its customers with the finest meat and service. www.berkswelltraditionalmeats.co
• All cuts of beef including beef on the bone
• Wide range of excellent Bar-B-Q meats
• Lamb from Meriden and Hampton
• Superb homemade sausages and home cured bacon
• Traditional breed pork, such as Gloucester Old Spot, with real crackling
• Free Range Chickens and eggs
• The Famous Berkswell ewes milk cheese
• Listed as one of Rick Stein’s “Food Heroes”
Warwickshire’s only accredited Traditional Breeds Butcher and Warwickshire Life’s Magazine’s ONLY Award Winning Butcher!
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 9.00am-5.00pm Sun 9.00am- 1.00pm Monday –closed
Thank you
Letters Page
On behalf of myself and my family, I would like to thank our neighbours in Millisons Wood for their help, support and vigilance when our cat, Leo went missing in early April.
Leo was a resident of Millisons Wood for 11 years and as we asked around, it was apparent that he was known by many people as he strolled around the estate. The reaction from people has been very heart warming and dog walkers, cyclists and children have all been keeping an eye out for him and checking back with us for news.
At the time of writing Leo is still missing and we would be grateful if people could continue to check their premises because he was a very nosey cat!!
Thanks again, it has made us realise we have some excellent neighbours.
The Wilkinson family, James Dawson Drive.
Help
I am trying to locate a photo album detailing the history of Meriden Rovers Football Club with photographs, newspaper reports etc, At the end of the 40th anniversary reunion evening in 1988, it was loaned to a player; unfortunately I have not seen it since. Can anyone help me locate it?
Mo Flemming 01827 280210
BALSALLWRITERS
(AmemberoftheNationalAssociationofWritersGroups)
Due to the initial response we have now set up a 'reserve list' for those interested in joining. We will be taking on new members in Oct 2011 when we intend to expand and move to larger premises. The committee will be limiting membership to enable all members to contribute via email a maximum wordage piece of up to 3000 words and provide time for appraisal/advice/etc at each meeting.
If you are interested in your name being placed on our 'reserve list' please contact the Secretary –
David Deanshaw 01676 533839. email david@fyldene.co.uk
Or Chairman – Anne Santos 01676 534003
Email Tideswell.house@virgin.net
Well done to Suzanne and Tony Sweeney of ‘Swallowfield’ Bed and Breakfast in Hampton Lane, Meriden, who were featured on Channel 4's "Three in a Bed" recently. They were in competition with two other B & Bs, one in Herefordshire and the other in Hampshire and they received the winning certificate. Congratulations!
OBE from Prince Charles
In the last Meriden Mag Grace and Lucy Ball mentioned that I had received the OBE for being a crossing lady in Nuneaton.
I lived in Meriden until I was 24 and I went to Meriden School when it was where the Surgery is now, my father, Jack Dutton, was a builder and a beekeeper. He helped build the Methodist Chapel. My mother Elizabeth lived by Meriden pool in the cottages (now demolished) she is still alive aged 91, she lives with our family and is a great-grandmother.
I went to the Palace to receive my OBE on March 24th with Michael, my husband. We walked through the gates and after showing our passports as ID we were taken by a policeman into a quadrangle and then up a flight of stairs with men in shining helmets, red coats and swords standing to attention. I met Sheila Hancock in the ladies loo, dressed in mauve. We went into a large pink room and a man came and told us what to do-“walk, curtsey, walk forward, curtsey and say Sir.” Prince Charles gave me my award and he asked me if I was going to give up the school crossing now I had my medal, I replied no to that, I told him I had been a crossing lady for 17 years. He asked me if my house was far from the school and I told him it was 3 miles away near Atherstone .Prince Charles remembered when he and Princess Diana came to the Shrove Tuesday ball game. He pinned my medal on me and shook my hand; I curtsied again and walked away. My medal was taken off and I was given it in a box. We went into the Red Ball room and watched Prince Charles knight a gentleman.
Then it was all over and we had some photos taken in the quadrangle and went on to the Houses of Parliament where Marcus Jones MP for Nuneaton took us on a tour, it was very interesting and we had high tea with him. It was a lovely sunny day and a good ending for my boss who retired from looking after the school patrols for 25 years.
Elizabeth Hollins (nee Dutton)
David Deakin Deakin Plastering Services
Interior plastering and coving work. Insurance work welcome. Free estimates, reliable, friendly, clean service. Tel: 01676 521389 Mobile: 07767 237860
Barbers 326 Kenilworth Road, Balsall Common Tel :01676 532621
Monday 9.30 -5.30 (Pat)
Tuesday 9.00-5.30 (Brian)
Wednesday CLOSED
Thursday 9.00-5.30 (Brian)
Friday 9.30-5.30 (Pat)
Saturday 9.00-2.00 (Pat)
Sunday CLOSED
A Coventry Way Challenge
The 2011 'A Coventry Way' 40 mile Challenge was held on Sunday April 17th. The route follows footpaths and bridleways through the countryside circling Coventry, starting and finishing at Meriden. This year the start and finish was at the Queen's Head, with Caroline & Lawrence O'Neill making the event very welcome in their marquee behind the pub.
Well before 6am event organiser, Bob Carey, was setting people off on their Way. Along the route were 7 refreshment checkpoints. One of those taking part enthused about this in his post event comment "Some said to me that it's the only race where you could put weight on, and they were right! What can I say great people and a fantastic day out. Almost ran a hard 40 miles with a smile on my face all the way - that takes some doing".
The event was a great success with 212 individuals completing. Many were raising money for charity, including students from Princethorpe College who have collected a vast amount for Mary's Meals (www.marysmeals.org.uk). There were also 12 relay teams including those representing Coventry Cathedral; King Henry VIII School and 4 teams from Burton Green who were taking part to raise awareness of their campaign against the HS2 train which, if it goes ahead, will blight their village (and a large section of A Coventry Way through to beyond Stoneleigh). Sphinx AC have held the men's relay record for a number of years. This is no longer the case, as the record (4:20) is now with Kenilworth Runners who beat the record by 15 minutes.
WHAT’S ON AT THE MANOR HOTEL
JUNE
Father’s Day Lunch Sunday 19th June
Adults £19.50 Children £9.75 (under 13)
Don’t forget Dad! What better way to show he’s loved and not forgotten. Bring him along to the Manor’s award winning Regency restaurant for a great family Sunday lunch.
JULY & AUGUST
Super Summer 2 for 1 Regency Restaurant
Throughout July & August £29 (applies to fixed price menu only)
Two superb Dinners for the price of one, in our AA Rosette Regency Restaurant. As normal tables must be booked five days in advance of your visit and this very popular offer is on a “first come, first served” basis
SEPTEMBER
Ladies Day, Monday 12th September, £26.00 per person
As summer slowly fades what you need is to treat yourself to an indulgent day of sophisticated pleasure and fashionable fun. Then join us for live demonstrations, Fashion Show and a great Lunch. Early booking essential.
Our Christmas brochure is now available please call in, or visit our web site
• Have a treatment in July and receive the same treatment half price in august
• Balinese back/leg massage combined with Eastern face massage (1 hr)£40 saving £10
• Reflexology- new customers half price Tuesday & Wednesday only £14
August
• New Treatment Lava Shell massage – heat therapy for painful joints £30(save £10)Tues only
• Emotional rebalance
• Reflexology with face, head massage, followed by Reiki (1hr 15mins) £31 save £5
Also available Baby Massage courses, meditation classes, workshops in crystal therapy, positive thinking.
The HAMPTON PLAYERS ANNUAL QUIZ NIGHT
The Fentham Hall, Marsh Lane, Hampton in Arden
Saturday 25th June - 7.30 p.m.
Tickets: £6.50 each to include 'Ploughmans Supper' Please bring your own alcoholic beverages Teams of six preferred....can't make up a team? Don't worry- join The Players.
“A fun evening with raffle.”
The questions are easy - it’s the answers that are harder!
Tickets from: 01675 442432 and www.thehamptonplayers.co.uk
The Healthy Practice is holding a Fund Raising Day
Saturday 18th June 11.00am – 4.00pm in aid of
The Air Ambulance and Myton Hospice
The Day will include various stalls, bric a brac, cakes, games for the kids, taster treatments and much more.
All welcome
Ample parking
131 Sutton Avenue Eastern Green
Meriden Pool… …oh please, not the ‘duck pond’!
Those who read my column know I strive to maintain interesting village traditions, hence my annoyance about the term, ‘duck pond ’to describe the Pool. It is not a natural feature but was created by blocking up part of the Horn Brook as it flows from the Shafts to the River Blythe. There are documents to prove it. The Horn Brook was once part of the village water supply for people and animals and its sewage system too until 1879. Women washed clothes here in Tudor times and it was a stopping off place for thirsty drove animals: sheep and cattle, moving south from Wales. In central Meriden the route divided, some travelling towards Warwick market by way of Berkswell Lane; others to Coventry’s famous mart up Meriden Hill, thence to the Home Counties, London and even the Continent. Today the Club is on the site of an animals’ grazing field while the Falcon Inn occupied the position of the first bungalow fronting Main Road. Here drovers themselves quenched their thirst. Meriden was a well known stop on this route, even named in a Welsh poem. The Welsh for ‘pond ‘Pwl’ pronounced ‘pool’ is distinctive and a reminder of our economic past. That is why I hope to encourage its use again. In 1629 an argument between Mr Fisher of Packington Hall owner of some drovers’ fields in the village and a group of richer farmers wishing to preserve traditional rights led to a case being judged in one of the highest law courts in the land. The Pool was far bigger in its heyday than now as shown in a drawing in the Aylesford Collection when John Reynolds controlled the Bull Head Inn opposite it between 1707 and 1756. Fresh fish and waterfowl from it were on the menu. In 1830s Dr Kittermaster painted it from different angles. In one the water backed up behind what was then Tory Row (nothing to do with Queen Victoria by the way), demolished in 1959; in another two swans sail elegantly on its surface. From 1940 to mid- 1990s there were no swans here. As a girl I was told that that if the Pool began to dry up, there would be war. In 1914 and 1939 there had been drastic reductions in water levels but the Meriden Rural District Council’s 1959 report denied this. Even so keeping the legend in mind, we all watched with grim fascination the water loss in 1962 as the Cuba Crisis mounted! Many villagers blamed the water tower on the top of Meriden Hill for erratic water discharges after 1939. Relining with fresh puddling clay and repairing the retaining wall in 1993 seems to have eased the problem in recent years. After all that was when the swans returned and I like to allow for a mysterious element in the history of the Pool, don’t you?
Doreen Agutter
Editors note: There are no swans nesting on the pool this year
COLUM O’NEILL
Tel: 02476 441149
Mob: 079 86385308
The Bull Head Inn with the pool in front painted by Dr Kittermaster in 1832
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. The next meeting dates are:
Wednesday 15 June 2011 – Joint Councillor Surgery
Monday 27 June 2011 – Parish Council Meeting
Monday 25 July 2011 – Parish Council Meeting
Should you wish to contact the Parish Council, please contact the Clerk:
Shafim Kauser
23 Whitehead Grove
Balsall Common CV7 7US
Tel: 01676 533395
Email: shafimk@btinternet.com
Web: www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk
Your Parish Councillors are:
We need to co-opt four more parish councillors
The Parish Council is currently receiving applications from residents who have shown an interest in becoming a councillor. We are looking for people who have the time, energy and commitment to take on the role. There are several issues in the parish and the initiatives we have set up need supporting. If you would like to influence the decisions that will be made in your parish, where you live, an application form can be obtained from the Clerk, Shafim Kauser. Over the next couple of months, we will consider each application, co-opting the right candidates as they present themselves.
Community surgeries at Meriden Library
Representatives from the West Midlands Police along with Bruce Brant, our Neighbourhood Coordinator from Solihull Council, 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: 13 June, 11 July and 8 August 2011.
The running and maintenance of our new sports facilities
When the playing fields are handed over to the parish, it will need to be maintained for the benefit of its users. The aim is to set up a company limited by guarantee which will also allow us to seek charitable status which will help us generate income for the maintenance of the grounds and funding of sport related projects. We’re looking for volunteers who would like to be a Director of this company. We have already heard from residents interested in volunteering. If you think you could offer the skills and experience we need, please contact the Parish Clerk on 01676 533395.
Historian Doreen Agutter to feature on our website
Over the coming months we aim to improve our website so that it keeps all residents up to date and features interesting stories and facts from the parish. We have asked Doreen Agutter, local historian and former Meriden resident, to put some additional articles on the Parish Council website. Her three books on Meriden sponsored by the council have helped put the village on the map as they have sold all over the world. This leads to frequent queries about the parish and its past. She spends much time researching the history of Meriden and its wider neighbourhoods as well as talking to groups and societies. All this could reach a larger audience by using our established website. So look out for Doreen's stories in the coming months.
Rosie Weaver Bob Kipling Melanie Lee Paul Lee Vacant seat Vacant seat Vacant seat Vacant seat (Chair) (Vice Chair)
The Parish Council would like to thank our football coach, Paul Jayes, for continuing to train our children and support the newly formed Meriden Rovers. See the logo they designed on the front page of the Meriden Mag. Paul originally came to Meriden through Solihull’s Fusion Project and was able to conduct Wednesday and Saturday training sessions. The Fusion Project has now been terminated as part of central government’s budget cutbacks. This means that Wednesday training sessions will cease from the end of May, but Saturday training will continue. Paul is keen to offer his services going forward as a qualified coach to encourage Meriden’s sports activities for the children and young people.
Paul is fully qualified in football training together with tennis, cricket, basketball, netball as well as sports for disabled children. We are in discussion with Paul to set up summer sports activities in August at the new sports facilities. We will be asking the children at Meriden C of E Primary School what activities they want to do during the summer through a formal survey. Full details will be available in the library over the coming weeks.
Community Speed Watch
The last Speed Watch session held in April demonstrated a serious speeding problem in Meriden. In one hour over 300 vehicles travelled the Main Road with 12% exceeding the speed limit. The national average is 6%!
WPC Sharon Grant will be organising two new training sessions in the summer to be held in Meriden. We need more volunteers so that the initiative continues; contact the Clerk if you’d like to attend. The training will be held at the Heart of England Social Club on the following dates and times:
Wednesday 6 July 2011 between 6-7pm Thursday 7 July 2011 between 7-8pm
Latest news from Centro 900
Following the reopening of Showell Lane, service 900 is back to its usual route through Meriden, via The Green and Main Road in both directions. Service 900 provides a daily service between Coventry, Meriden, Birmingham International and Birmingham City Centre from early morning until nearly midnight. It runs every half-hour for most of the day and hourly in the evenings and a single adult ticket costs just £1.80.
Connections with National Rail services are available at Birmingham International Station. Trains from here to Birmingham New Street leave every 5-10 minutes and take less than 15 minutes, getting you to the City Centre even faster. Through tickets can be bought on the bus – ask for an n-network ticket, valid on all buses and trains in the West Midlands for just £6.80 for one day, with big discounts for season tickets and pre-purchased direct debit tickets.
82
Centro subsidise the hourly 82 service, which operates every hour on Mondays to Saturdays between Solihull, Hampton in Arden, Meriden and Coventry. Passenger numbers have almost doubled since this service was launched in summer 2010, which is important because this service is supported by the tax payer and so high passenger numbers help justify its continuation. If you haven’t used buses for a while you should really give this service a try –you will be pleasantly surprised by the leather seats, friendly drivers and there is even free wi-fi so you can access the internet on the move. Single tickets are available at just £1.80, with discounts available on season tickets. Concessionary pass holders can travel before 9.30am for just 80p, free thereafter.
There are no evening or Sunday services on the 82 route but you can still get to Solihull by catching service 900 to Sheldon from where there are regular buses to Solihull.
232
232 to Nuneaton departs from the bus stop on Fillongley Road, opposite the Meriden Tea Rooms every Wednesday at 9.40am and every Saturday at 9.50am. Return journeys leave Nuneaton Bus Station at 1.10pm.
For full details of timetables and to see the range of tickets available on all of these services, please visit www.networkwestmidlands.com
Taxibus
As well as these ‘fixed’ services, Meriden benefits from the Heart of England taxibus service for those resident’s with more flexible needs. This service, subsidised by Centro, provides a handy door-to-door service and is perfect for work and leisure travel to popular destinations including Solihull, Coventry, Birmingham International, Balsall Common and other local shopping centres and stations in the Meriden area. Taxibus operates Monday to Saturday 8am to 7.30pm and is available to everybody!! Bookings must be made at least 24 hours in advance by calling 0121 783 6869 between 9am and 4pm weekdays. Concessionary passes, n-network and n-bus tickets are accepted on board and cash fares are available, calculated on a mileage basis, with a typical journey costing just £1.70.
Parish Plan Action Group - The Parish Design Statement
1
Thank you to all those who responded to the Spring Parish Plan Newsletter with your views on what should be included in the Parish Design Statement. At the time of writing this article the detailed responses are being analysed and the results and issues arising are to be published in a follow-up newsletter. It is clear that there is a big endorsement of the strong line taken in the Parish Plan on preserving and enhancing the Green Belt and very strong support for the most aspects of the proposed general guidance on the built environment and the public realm.
However there are issues that divide opinion. There is consensus on the need to control the speed of traffic and get a better balance between pedestrians, other road users and vehicles. And there is widespread support for narrowing our main roads; however there are some who are strongly opposed. The proposal that the north side of Birmingham Road (Meriden) should be considered suitable for a small housing development has divided opinion down the middle. The follow-up newsletter will deal with these controversial issues in more detail, considering the arguments for and against. Many of the responses have raised planning issues that are particular to their area of the Parish. These will contribute to a section of the Design Statement that will look in turn at each ‘character area’ of the Parish.
When the consultation results have been analysed fully and the follow-up newsletter published, a first draft of the full Parish Design Statement will be produced, discussed with Solihull Council planners and then published on line for further views and comment before being finalised later this year.
Iain Roxburgh
A message from Councillor David Bell
The deadline for copy for this magazine is 6th May. This is the day of the count for the local elections and I will attempt to give you a summary having just arrived back from Chelmsley Wood, where the count took place this morning. In Meriden Ward the main issues have of course been the traveller’s site and the HS2. The council has for the last twelve months been controlled by a Labour and Libdem coalition and the election results have seen 8 new councillors elected in the Borough. This gives the Conservatives overall control with a majority of 5 seats. The AV count is this afternoon and by that time the deadline for copy will have passed but indications are an overwhelming no.
The results for Solihull were as follows
Conservatives gained 5 seats
Libdem lost 4 seats
Labour lost 2 seats
The Green party gained 2 seats.
So many thanks to those of you who voted for me and I will do my best to serve the ward as a whole for the next four years.
The new sports facilities should be completed soon and hopefully they will be enjoyed by a large proportion of the village. At least this provision should not be affected by further reductions in funding for Solihull Council which will have to be addressed in the next twelve months to ensure that there is no rise in Council Tax. The Emerging Core Strategy which is, in effect, the planning proposals for this Borough for the next 15 years was hit into the long grass by the previous administration and will have to be considered later this year. It seems clear that following the development of the old playing fields Meriden does not want any further housing thrust upon it for the foreseeable future. There are plans also for coal extraction under Meriden from Daw Mill in North Warwickshire and further mineral extraction close to Meriden off the A446. These plans will require careful monitoring to ensure their effect on our enjoyment of this precious area is minimised.
Solihull Open Gardens Solihull Open Gardens
10 years of help 10 years of helping ing Citizens Advice Bureaux help people! Bureaux help people!
We are opening the gardens on Sundays 12th June & 10th July. The opening times for the gardens are 1.00pm to 5.00pm apart from Solihull College which opens from 10.00am until 4.00pm
The admission fee is £4.50 per person to all the gardens for the day and £3.00 to the college.
12th June
Solihull College B91 1SB - children really love the animals there
34 Blossomfield Rd - Blossomfield Gardens
B91 1SB (NEW GARDEN)
118 Danford Lane B91 1QR (NEW GARDEN)
59 Tanworth Close Shirley B90 4DQ
9 Sandfield Close Shirley B90 25D
Shakespeare Drive Allotments Shirley
92 Bills Lane Shirley B90 2PF
10th July
3 Hillfield Court B91 3FE
84 Silhill Hall Rd B91 3FE
111 Buryfield Rd B91 2DQ
30 Wherrets Well Lane B91 2SD
27 Blythe Way B91 3EY (NEW GARDEN)
41 Broadfern Road Knowle B93 9DE
40 Kixley Lane Knowle B93 0JG
Readers of this magazine can claim a reduction of 50p on the £4.50 daily admission fee to visit all the gardens on production of a copy of the magazine.
Pied Piper Pest & Wildlife Management
The solution to all your pest vermin and wildlife problems
Wasps nests Wasps nests removed and removed and destroyed destroyed destroyed destroyed
A fast discreet service Domestic/Commercial/Agricultural Free Survey & Quote, Fully Insured
Traditional forms of mole & rabbit control
Tel 0121 246 8879 Mobile 07989 348 467
www.piedpiperpestmanagement.co.uk
www.broadlanevets.co.uk 384a Kenilworth Road Balsall Common CV7 7ER
• Private car park
• Low cost vaccinations
• Free puppy parties
• Microchipping
• Free five-month development reviews
• Premium pet foods for sale/to order
• Qualified Veterinary Acupuncturist
• Also at 255 Broad Lane Coventryopen until 7.30pm weekdays, 8.30am-5pm Saturdays and 11am3pm Sundays.
Please phone for an appointment 01676 530 792
Franklin Construction Services
Established 1979
• New build, renovations, maintenance, extensions, on domestic, commercial and industrial properties.
• Full design planning and build service
• Free Quotations
• Window and door replacement in UPVC, timber and aluminium
• Conservatories erected, kitchens and bathrooms fitted.
Lunch special Lunch special 2 main courses £9.95 Tuesday - Friday
A’ la Carte and 3 course Carte and 3 TDH menu available TDH menu available Monday- Saturday Saturday Celebrate with us.... Celebrate with us.... The Meriden and Garden suites offer banqueting facilities for 150 people and the Garden suite up to 60 people, both very popular for weddings and family celebrations
Always buy a good pair of shoes and a good bed because if you are not in one, you’re in the other (Joan Collins)
Don’t forget the Meriden Mag has its own web site www.meridenmag .co.uk where you can view back issues & friends & family not in the area can catch up on local news
Lavender Hall Lane Berkswell 01676 530 299 / 07949 119 436 Cafe open to the public from 8.00am – 2.00pm daily 7 days a week Serving hot and cold food Specialising in an all day breakfast for £4.20!
5 fishing lakes in glorious countryside. Now selling a complete range of baits
Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk
Acanthus Picture Framer
Calvin
Home Workshop
279 Kenilworth Road
Balsall Common
Wednesday-Thursday-Friday & Saturday
10.00am thru to 5.00pm
Needleworks – Prints - Photos
Medals - Artworks
Mirrors available and framed 01676 544562
Heart of England
Property
Maintenance
Plumbing
Carpentry
General Maintenance
Painting & Decorating
Contact Paul Morgan on 01676 542885 07917 692948 mobile
Beauty Salon
Telephone 01676 521100
Men and Women welcome
Open 7 days a week
Monthly offers available
New dual treatment room
Gift vouchers available
Over 60’s special Wednesday 9.00am-3.00pm
Manicure £15
Pedicure £20
Back Massage £15 Or 15% off any treatment
Also complimentary tea and biscuits
All aspects of Beauty Therapy to include; Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, aspects of Beauty Therapy to Pedicures, Waxing,
Eye treatment, Facials, Caci facials and body treatments, microdermabrasion , massages,
Eye treatment, Facials, Caci facials and body treatments, microdermabrasion , massages,
Eye Facials, Caci facials and microdermabrasion , massages,
Hopi Candles, Gel Nail Extensions, Hot S Stone Massage, tone Massage, tone Massage,
Eye Facials, Caci facials and microdermabrasion , massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology, Gel Nail Extensions, Body Wraps, Hot S
Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun bed. Spray Vertical bed.
Telephone 01676 521100 Also treatment rooms available at the Windmill Village Hotel and Nailcote Hall Hotel
RAMBLINGS FROM THE ALLOTMENTS
At the beginning of January if you can remember the weather was all I could talk about, well nothing has changed very much. We did however manage to buy the seed potatoes which as I wrote were chitting on top of my wardrobe. I know, but this is the best place to do it. Free from the frost and cold. At the same time the onion sets were purchased and I hope we have better luck this year. I have actually had to buy some to last me till the winter ones are ready to eat. The last week in January saw the broad beans planted into pots in the greenhouse and my sweet peas were starting to grow, we have not done these for a few years, it will be nice to have some again, the smell of them is something else. At the beginning of February the weather had not improved very much, quite a lot of windy weather and still very cold. The sun shone in the second week of the month and I got the tomatoes, melons, celery and asparagus seeds sowed in the propagator. It is lovely to see the next season’s food growing on. A week later most of the seeds were through and we were able to take them to the greenhouse for potting on into individual pots. At the same time, I sowed some rose seeds that were a present to me on my retirement. These are extra special because they are registered in my name and some will be stored in a seed bank for eternity. I can’t wait to see if they grow. Thank you Jeanette
Spring must have been on its way the Tete a Tete daffodils were out in the garden; it must be a good sign. The chickens are doing OK now. How have they have managed through this bitter winter? However they seem to have come through it and are laying very well.
A week after sowing the tomato seeds they were up and two days later I was able to prick them out into individual pots. The melons seemed to have died a death, so we sowed two more packets and as I wrote they were languishing on my spare bedroom windowsill but they are now doing very nicely.
First week in March the Brussel sprouts and red cabbage seeds were sown and these have now been potted on into their own pots. The weather was great and it spurred us on,the first early peas were sown in modules and my sweet peas and the broad beans were hardening off outside. 24/25th March and the weeding had started. First the strawberries and then over two days I did the autumn sown onion sets. 28th March we moved the brassica cage to its new position with the aid of four planks and the celery tubes. We got on with the rotavating and finished that over two days, we were ready for the planting. 30th It started to rain today, the first in weeks, but we did need some. 4th April sowed the rest of the brassica seeds today, which included cauliflower, cabbages, calebrese, purple sprouting broccoli and kale. I also pricked out a tray of Bells of Ireland flowers for my friend and I am looking forward to seeing them in flower. Today also saw the broad beans planted out on the allotment. I picked the first of the asparagus and made a blue cheese and asparagus flan for dinner, it was soooo good! You cannot believe the flavour of the freshly picked against shop bought. During the rest of the week I sowed squashes, pumpkins, courgettes, peppers, chillies and cucumber. In the garden we planted 10 rows of potatoes and the onion sets and sowed beetroot seeds. The weather was glorious that week and the temperature got up to 21 degrees. The week commencing 14th April we got the brassica seedling potted on and the bright and spicy lettuce planted out. These are lovely because they are a mix of seeds and each plant is a different variety. Well it is the last week in April and we still have not had any rain, although some has been forecast for that big Royal event. On 30th April about 32 allotmenteers enjoyed a barbecue on the car park in wonderful warm weather.
“Certainly a day to remember.”
It is a real pleasure to see how well all the allotments are being tended this year, “well done” to all the allotment holders.
Sometime ago I watched an old Nigella Lawson programme on TV and she made this cake, recipe below, which I made myself and can highly recommend
4-5 large Clementines cooked in water for 45min.
When they are cooked blitz them whole in a processor, yes even the skin.
To this add: - 250 grams ground almonds
220 grams caster sugar
Heaped teaspoon baking powder
6 eggs.
Blend this together. Line and grease a 20cm spring form tin. Pour into the tin and bake for approx 40 to 45 min at 190c. It may need slightly less if using a fan-assisted oven. This is a very moist cake with a delicious flavour. I have tried it with lemons and it works just as well. I think I used 3 large lemons.
Ann Butler
HS2 – your views count!
It’s easy to think politicians do what they want regardless, but when things are controversial, your views can make a difference. The public consultation on HS2 has started, and will run until 29 July. You can respond on-line, or write to a Freepost address – not forgetting to write to your councillors and MP as well!
Details of the consultation can be found in the 2nd Newsletter from the Heart of England High Speed Railway Action Group (HHAG), and the information is repeated on its website hhag.org.uk.
The Government poses seven questions for comment, but you can add in anything you want. It starts by asking whether there is a strong case for enhancing the inter-city rail network, obviously hoping to get a “Yes” response. In fact, the Government now admits long-term passenger growth is 2% per annum, so extra carriages and the removal of a few pinch-points would meet transport needs for decades to come.
The rail industry really does affect everyone, because the annual subsidy has ballooned five-fold since privatisation to £5 billion per year. Even if the £30-odd billion to build HS2 is spread over a number of years, one wonders how services can be sustained on a third, and very expensive, route to Birmingham.
But the effects on the Meriden area go well beyond mere money and public services. The Government wants to get private capital to build the proposed station at Middle Bickenhill. The payback, of course, will be the waiving of planning controls across this area of Greenbelt. Combine that with the massive disruption during construction and the surge in road traffic once it’s open, then the Meriden Gap is under threat as never before.
The wider environmental impacts would be just as serious, with the country literally cut in half by the ruler-straight line and its security fencing. Look at how major roads have severed footpaths and bridleways, and cut farmland and green spaces into useless triangles. The heaviest loss will not be in the pretty Chilterns, but on the east side of Chelmsley Wood, where their green spaces will go from one to zero.
Please take the time to learn what HS2 involves, decide what it means to you, and send in your views!
Firebird Singers
The Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens is a Heritage site of national and international importance on your very doorstep!
In these austere times, a shortage of Volunteers helping us to run the gardens has become a problem that threatens their very survival. Please help us! Volunteers are urgently needed in the following areas of work:
Visitor Centre; Coffee Shop; Guides; Assistance with Special Events (Setting Up and Attendance at Stalls etc.)
Education (especially those with teaching experience) Car Park Attendants; Receptionist/Clerical Assistants.
We have jobs for any skills that you may have, and you decide your hours of working. All we ask is that you are reliable so our paying visitors are not let down. Please join us! Meet new friends, learn some new skills, and play your part in preserving a vital slice of our local and national heritage for future generations.
Thanks!
Tel & Fax 0121 749 4100
Castle Bromwich Hall and Gardens Trust Chester Road, Castle Bromwich, Birmingham B36 9BT. Email: admin@cbhgt.org.uk www.cbhgt.org.uk
Firebird Singers enjoyed an inaugural concert on April 16th at St Laurence Church Meriden. We had an audience of about 80 and raised roughly £300, we were able to donate £100 each to Meriden Church and Cancer Research, and the balance went to our own funds. The concert was a great success and very memorable for all concerned. To much acclaim Firebird Singers thrilled the packed audience with choral and solo pieces and were ably assisted by the “front of house team”
Would you like to join us? We are especially on the lookout for men to sing with our choir. Please give it a go; we are sure you will enjoy the experience.
Our next Rehearsals are at St Laurence Church on Fridays 3rd & 17th June and 1st July at 7.30pm. Do come along and join us!
To find out more about Firebird Singers call John on 07716 721467 or email j.bentick@btinternet.com
Window Cleaner (5 years experience) A reliable service at a realistic price window sills included
Telescopic poles available for those previously untouched and inaccessible windows
I clean what others leave!
Please call Adam on 0794 389 3354
Exciting new hair stylists
Our hair stylists are a highly qualified cutting and colouring team, boasting bridal ‘occasion’ specialists
There is a dedicated barbering area for the men offering open blade wet shave with hot and cold towels for a truly invigorating experience for the man who has everything
All the home care and blow -dry advice you need with our Redken ‘bootcamp’
NEW! nail technician arriving soon for all nail applications Tuesday/Wednesday 9.30-5.30pm
For
10ft &20ft (600&1200 cubic ft)
Lockable containerised units
Easy access with your own personal key Drive direct to your clean and dry unit 10ft Containers from £17 per week 20ft Containers from £28 per week
Discounts available for longer periods
Village Diary Village Diary Village Village
1st June WIFamilyMorning VillageHall 10.30am JoanRussell01676522666
6th June WI VillageHall 7.30pm JoanRussell01676522666
7th June Fir’sTriptoRutland MalcolmGratton 01676523505
8th June Reader’sCircle 7.30pm MikeWatkinson521496
11th June SummerFayre FirsMaxstokeLane 11.00.–3.00pm
12th June RotaryMegaRide Queen’sHeadPub 11.30onwards JaneMaugham01827705950
12th June ChurchTowerTour StLaurenceChurch 12noon-4.30pm PeterWright01676522414
12th June OpenGardens MaxstokeCastle 11.00am-5.00pm
13th June CommunitySurgery Library 10.00am–12noon 01676522717
15th June ParishCouncilSurgery VillageHall 7.30pm ShafimKauser01676533395
17th June FirsCoffeeMorning JubileeCentreB.C. 10.00am-12noon MalcolmGratton 01676523505
19th June OpenAirService KinwalseyLane 4.00pm RevCharlesworth533737
20th June FlowerClub VillageHall 7.30pm MoReynolds01676521457
24th June RaidMidSummerBash BrailesFarm 7.30pm KateBeaty01675443623
24th June CAMEO HolidayatHome Ellen01676522534
25th26th June CyclingFestival CoventryTransport Museum AllDay
27th June ParishCouncilMeeting VillageHall 7.30pm ShafimKauser01676533395
30th June CreamTea PackingtonHall 2.30pm
1st July PTASummerFayre School 4.00pm–6.00pm01676522488
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7th July OpenEvent MeridenSchool 1.30-3.15&5.30 6.30pm 01676522488
9th July DuckRace PatrickFarm 3.00pm KateBeaty01675443623
11th July PlanningAppeal HofEClub
11th July CommunitySurgery
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Ryton Pools Country Park is a country park one milesouth west of the village of Ryton on Dunsmore. The Park occupies an area of about 100 acres and contains four pools, the largest of which covers approximately 10 acres. Ryton Woods, situated next to the country park, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest nature reserve owned by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust that is also open to the public. Professional park rangers are employed to look after the varied flora and fauna of the park as well as the general maintenance of pathways and buildings.
The area of the park containing the pools is reasonably flat and suitable for wheelchair access. However there are steeper gradients in the Ryton Wood nature reserve which, combined with the rougher tracks, make it less suitable for wheelchair users.
The grounds have official opening times which vary according to the seasons; however, visitors can enter the park on foot outside these hours if they wish. There are two car parks in the park, and there is currently a flat rate charge of £2 for any vehicle to enter the park. Public transport to the park is extremely limited
Facilities at the park include a visitor centre/cafe and gift shop, two children's play areas for different ages of children, a bird hide, miles of pathed and unpathed walks, fishing facilities and a miniature railway run by the Coventry Model Engineering Society. The railway is around 2000ft long and operates for the public every Sunday afternoon (1pm4pm) from Easter until the end of September. Train rides are £1 per person per ride with the journey lasting around 6 minutes or so. Trains are hauled by either a steam or diesel locomotive. (All trains run weather permitting).
The park also organises events for children such as parties, birds of prey spotting, "creepy crawly club", nest box building, and "prams in the park" (walking for parents with babies). There is a bird hide located by one of the pools where visitors can observe the wildlife in relative quiet.
Whitacres and Shustoke Horticultural Society
63rd Annual Show Saturday July 30th
Blyth Hall, Shustoke
Attractions include Vikings of Middle England, Falconry displays, Blacksmith and Farrier displays, main marquee with flower, vegetable and plant displays, rabbits, dog show and pony and horse classes. Schedules can be obtained from the website. www.show.shustoke-warwickshire.co.uk
What’s on at the NEC this summer
15th-19th June Gardener’s World Live and the Summer Good Food Show
11th-14th August Festival of Quilts
21st –24th August Antiques for Everyone
Millennium Place in front of Coventry Transport Museum, will come alive with a whole host of FREE activities for all ages - and whether you prefer to join in or simply to watch, you'll find lots to enjoy throughout the whole weekend. And it doesn't matter whether or not you own a bike, as cycles of all shapes and sizes will be provided for you to try. 25 June to 26 June 10am to 4.30pm
Festival Rides (bring your own bike!)
For experienced cyclists: The Second Annual Tom Sabin Memorial Ride: Coventry to Much Wenlock
For Families: Ride To the Romans - Coventry to Baginton Sunday 26 June 2pm. A ride from Coventry Transport Museum to the Lunt Roman Fort. Free! There will be plenty of experienced cyclists on hand to guide you along the way - and you will even get free entry to the Lunt Fort when you arrive!
Bikes arrive from 11.30am
Reminder!! Deadline date for the autumn issue
(Out by 1stSeptember) Friday 5th August 2011
Val Martin 01676 522963 val.simon@virgin.net
Margaret Argyle 01676 522453
margarete.argyle@googlemail.com
Deliveries: Simon Martin 01676 522963
Proof Reader: Claire Rose
Useful Village contact numbers
Dates for hoisting the flag on Meriden Green
2 June CoronationDay
10 June BirthdayoftheDukeof Edinburgh
11 June
MeridenPrimarySchool MrsL.Winkler 01676522488
MeridenLibrary 01676522717
MeridenSurgery 01676522252
LloydsChemist 01676522722
St.LaurenceChurch PeterWright 01676522414
MeridenMethodistChurch Rev. Andrew Charlesworth 01676533737
Meriden Christian Fellowship Pstr.Kevin&LynHunt 01676523050
When contacting When contacting advertisers please mention advertisers mention
The good thing about the future The good about the is that it comes one day is that it comes one day is that comes one day is that comes one day at a time! at a time!
BICKENHILL PUBLIC WASTE DISPOSAL SITE OPENING HOURS
Summer 1st April-31st October Monday-Friday8.00am-8.00pm SaturdayandSunday 8.00am-4.30pm
Last admission 15 minutes before closing time
Eighth Page £8.50
Quarter Page £17.00
Half page £34.00
Small ads (sale or wanted) £3.00
Charity & Community information & events FREE Views expressed by the Contributors are not necessarily those of the Co-editors We are unable to print anonymous Letters or articles although we will withhold name and address on request
