Santa’s Grotto, Tombola, Raffle, Lucky Dip, , Raffle, Lucky Dip, , Raffle, Dip, , Raffle, Dip, Stalls, Toys Books, Face Painting, Games, Refreshments, Cakes Stalls, Toys Books, Face Painting, Games, Refreshments, Cakes Toys Painting, Games, Refreshments, Cakes Toys Painting, Games, Refreshments, Cakes and lots more. and
Follow Santa and his Huskies to the Fayre, leaving from Santa and Huskies to the Fayre, from from from Maxstoke Lane (by the playing fields) at 12.50pm Maxstoke Lane (by the playing fields) at 12.50pm Lane (by the at 12.50pm Lane (by the at 12.50pm 50p entry (pre school children free) 50p All proceeds go All proceeds go All proceeds All proceeds directly to the school PTA fund directly to the school “Service above self”
Carol Singing on the Green Saturday 23rd December 4.00pm
4
8
3rd
5
VILLAGE DIARY
15
19 th Feb Flower Club
23 rd Feb
26
532537
Sandra Jones 523 023
Photographic Record
I would like to thank every one who has offered help and support in trying to get a photographic record underway of some of Meriden's older houses in 2005.
Due to a technicality with the houses insurance companies
I am unable to proceed with the book, which is most unfortunate. Thanks to everyone who has given permission or offers of financial help to get the book published.
A special thank-you to David Copson and Marilyn Hamilton for their help and support.
Many thanks Graeme Goodsir
Well done The Firs
A special coffee morning was held for Macmillan Cancer Support in September. From this and through a raffle, the Firs residents raised £235. What an excellent achievement
Alan Lole
Letters Page
Meriden USA
In response to Caroline Spelman's letter in the Autumn edition of the Meriden Mag, I made contact with their (Meriden Connecticut) newspaper editor and to date have received a couple of responses from residents which have proved very interesting, and although I was not a resident of Meriden during the war years and only visited the village as a schoolgirl glad to get away from the nightly air raids in Coventry where I then lived, they seemed interested enough to swap reminiscences.
What a surprise it was to learn that the U.S. Meriden is a town of some 60,000 inhabitants with many small manufacturing industries. What they will make of our lovely rural village I don't know - hopefully there will be further correspondence between us and they'll continue to keep in touch
Beryl Lucas Hedge Cutting!
We received a letter from the residents of Walsh Lane Mobile Homes about a hedge by the Queens Head Pub, which needed cutting back.
This letter was passed to Mavis Edwards the Parish Council Clerk and the hedge was cut straight away. While we are always happy to help, if we can, we must point out that any residents with a problem or complaint should contact Susan East, the Neighbourhood co-ordinator at Solihull MBC or Mavis Edwards, the Parish Clerk, direct Their details can be found on the Parish Council page in this “Mag”.
Val & Margaret
Fire Safety Checks
Thank you for the article on free fire safety checks in last month’s “ Mag”. I arranged a visit, which was carried out last week. I had two free smoke alarms fitted and a reassuring report on my house. The only hazard they could see was the use of a chip pan. As I rarely use this I got rid of it. My house layout is now on their computer system and in the event of a call out I know exactly what to do whilst waiting for them to attend.
Joan Jones
TheGalactic Telephone Network
It is my opinion that the science predictions that will amaze the world will come to fruition. The science fiction of the last century with Flash Gordon we kids used to watch at the Rialto and Gaumont cinemas during those wonderful Saturday childhood days have all become fact. Flash Gordon’s Death Ray - the Laser Beam, his space ship - the moon rocket and his vision visor - the television.
Whilst most of my scientific work was with the RAF Radar and Televisions, even then with the technical knowledge I still found it amazing to be able to transmit pictures through space. Everybody takes it for granted don’t they? My technical training told me that the high frequency carrier wave we tune into was the means of transporting the picture, with the picture information simply modulating this HF carrier wave. NOW I AM BEGINNING TO WONDER.
Within the forefront of today’s advanced science revolving more than ever around the atomic particles, arrives a NEW DIMENSION.
I have often stated how we use sub atomic particles for producing electricity that is moving electrons from one atom of metal wire to another, causing electric current flow. We use metal because the electrons flow quite loosely in it.
THE NEW DIMENSION is the fact that within all space there are millions of free electrons and protons, maybe a million in a cubic inch.
Constantly these negatively charged electrons are bumping into positively charged protons and whoosh, a mini atomic explosion. These constantly occurring mini atomic explosions create a power source everywhere in space, which has been calculated to a figure of point nought six with 26 noughts before the six. Blame the linear accelerator like the one at Cern for finding that figure. If all of this passes into absolute fact (I think it will) then that point six and its twenty six zeros before it, GIVES US OUR LIFES UNIVERSE. Change that figure and we enter another parallel universe.
THIS BRINGS ME TO THAT NEW DIMENSION. The annihilation of these particles in all of absolute creates a kind of energising voltage (that 06 lot again) that actually causes the transport for all kinds of transmission. In fact a GALACTIC TELEPHONE NETWORK THAT LINKS EVERY THING. So whilst we have all been using electrons for our simple electricity, they in future will lead us on to much greater technology.
I understand that serious experiments are now in hand to ascertain it this Galactic Network System will operate through transmission and telepathy. There are many cases today when someone knows of the death of a dear one the instant it happens, even hundreds of miles away, even more so during World War 2. So it’s good-bye Flash Gordon, we have now got all of your scientific meanderings, who’s next - Darth Vader?
Frank Mills - Clifton
Main Road, Meriden, Coventry, Main Road, Meriden, Coventry, Main Road, Main Road, West Midlands CV7 7NH West
STILL LOOKING TO BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY? THEN CELEBRATE YOUR CHRISTMAS IN STYLE THIS YEAR AT THE MANOR HOTEL!!
Theme nights nights
The ideal way to have fun with your work colleagues, friends or family. Dress to impress, prizes to be won
Only £25 Only £25 £25 £25 per person, including three-course meal
Dinner Dances Dinner
Start your evening with a superb 4-course meal then dance the night away with our resident DJ
Dinner Dance price prices start s start start s start from £30 per person from £30 per person per person per person
& Glitz of the 70’s
& Glitz the
Limited spaces are still available for Christmas Day and New Years Eve!
Christmas Day and New Years Eve!
Christmas Day Eve!
Christmas Day Eve!
Call today to book or for your brochure
Lunch with Santa Lunch with Santa Santa Santa Back by popular demand this year are our lunches with Santa. Bring along the kids for a traditional Sunday lunch, a visit from Father Christmas Father Christmas With gifts for the children and your chance to relax whilst the kids enjoy their disco
Only £17.95 per adult and £8.95 £17.95 per adult per child under 12 per child
A Message from Councillor David Bell (Solihull MBC)
My portfolio at Solihull has now been renamed Safer and Stronger Communities to fall in line with Central Government changes in Descriptions. Previously it was Local services; libraries, sports, waste collection and recycling, parks, allotments etc. I now also have Food and trading standards, and enforcement.
I wanted to draw your attention to two matters that have recently been addressed.
The first is Mini Motorbikes . These can be obtained quite cheaply second hand and I can understand how enthusiastically youngsters would ask for them particularly in the run up to Christmas. However there is a major problem with their misuse in the borough. They do not meet standards for road use although they can travel at up to 40mph. Riders put themselves at risk without proper clothing and without insurance claims for damage to property or personal injury would not succeed. Accidents have occurred with mixing petrol and oil to power these vehicles and with their being stored inside homes; Sales in the UK have risen from 7000 to 100,000 in 4 years. There is a facility in Bickenhill for owners to ride legally and under supervision but used illegally or anti-socially they may be seized by the police and, if unsafe, destroyed. If in any doubt contact trading Standards at SMBC.
Secondly abandoned vehicles and we have had our fair share of these. Now, under the Clean Neighbourhoods and environment Act abandoned vehicles can be removed from the streets within 24 hours of being reported. If the vehicle is worth less than £500 it will be immediately crushed. Higher value vehicles will be taken to a Pound and if not claimed within seven days they will be sold at auction. If you want to dispose of a vehicle or report an abandoned one ring 0121 704 8369 however if you drive an old favourite of a car do make sure it never looks abandoned!!!
Meriden Floral Society
Monday11 th December18
JuneMonday£
Monday 11th December
A Christmas Kind of Magic; Diane Pritchard
Monday 15th January Practice Class; Margaret Rumen
Monday 19th February
A.G.M.
Village Hall Meriden 7.30pm
For further information
Telephone Val Miller on 01676 540380 or Sandra Jones on 01676 523023
Sophie’s Small Pet Holiday Home
118 Fillongley Road Meriden
Are you going away and don’t know where to put your small animal?
Yes? Well I can help.
Your pet/s will be housed in a comfortable hutch situated in a well-ventilated room
Proprietary pelletised pet food will be supplied Sophie 01676 522405
For the very best for your dog, contact… Roy & Lesley Thompson, at
PHYSIOTHERAPY REFLEXOLOGY COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES
Treatments for pain, stress, acute and chronic conditions Alison Stain
M.C.S.P., S.R.P., I.T.E.C. The Therapy Centre Balsall Villa 287 Kenilworth Road
Balsall Common Tel: 01676 521066
PILATES
CLASS MERIDEN METHODIST CHURCH HALL Tuesday evening 6.15pm – 7.15pm Classes run in 6-week courses
1 to 1 Pilates reformer equipment at Club Motivation Hampton in Arden Free trial session with this advertisement
For more details contact Jo on 07952 473526
BROAD LANE
VETERINARY SURGERY
2 255 BROAD LANE Appointments 9am-7.30pm Mon-Fri Open Surgeries: 8.30-9am 332 RADFORD ROAD KENILWORTH ROAD, BALSALL COMMON LOW COST VACCINATION SCHEME (including) FREE PUPPY PARTY ENTRY & FREE 5 MONTHS CHECK UPS. FREE ADVICE BY APPT WITH OUR 4 QUALIFIED NURSES IDENTICHIP VISA&MASTERCARD EASY PARKING 24hr EMERGENCY SERVICE FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT ANY OF THE ABOVE SURGERIES PLEASE RING COVENTRY (024) 7646 4789
Meriden
With winter approaching the Meriden art group is back to holding its regular classes in the warmth and comfort of the village hall. We had a great summer with our outdoor painting and sketching sessions around the area. When the sun shone it brought all the artists out but despite rain, gales and the odd thunderstorm the hardyfew were there through it all! We met at several places such as Meriden church, Lapworth canal basin, Shustoke reservoir, etc. The group would like to give a special thanks to the hospitalityshown to us byElaine Hitchens and for the use of her wonderful garden at Silver Trees Farm, to Luci and Robin for letting us into their fabulous grounds and home at Walsh Hall and to Mr and Mrs Featherstone-Dilke for the rare opportunityto sit and paint at Maxstoke castle. Hopefullya few of the pictures will Be on displayat our next exhibition in the summer.
Julie Hyde 01676 523357
Here are just a few of the paintings produced by members of the Meriden Art group this summer
What makes airport security What makes airport security airport airport think they can find think they can something in your wife’s something in your wife’s handbag when even she handbag even she can’t? can’t?
Tips from the Cop Shop Tips from the Cop Shop Tips the Cop Shop Tips the Cop
Shop
For any advice or literature on Crime Prevention
Phone Laura Russell or Cheryl Tyler On 0845 113 5000
WEST Midlands Police are warning that traditionally the fast approaching festive season can bring an increase in the number of house burglaries committed by opportunist thieves.
The force is keen to alert householders and tenants to the fact that a large number of break-ins take place in unlocked homes.
Darker nights mean easy cover for burglars who will try doors and patio windows at the front and back of houses until they find one unlocked.
Householders are also asked to consider what a stranger looking through a front window would see – car keys left on coffee tables, presents in plain view and other easy to grab items encourage burglars to target your home.
Other crime prevention advice includes:
• Always lock the doors – whether you are in the house or only intending to pop out for a few minutes
• Keep valuables out of sight, especially from front windows
• Keep car keys out of sight and away from letter boxes and windows
• Make sure your house appears occupied when you are out by using timer switches for lights and leaving radios on
• Fit window locks on all your accessible windows
• Use your garage if you have one. If you don’t have a garage fit extra security devices (crook locks, alarms, immobilisers) to your vehicle
• Postcode your property using an ultra violet pen
• After Christmas, break up the cardboard boxes presents have come in and recycle them or wrap up rubbish so that potential burglars cannot see what new goods you have
David Deakin David Deakin Deakin Deakin Plastering Services
Turpie School of Dance
Meriden library
01676 522717
Open Monday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm
We are pleased to welcome Donna to Meriden Library, having worked on the mobile Library she has much experience to offer. We hope she will be very happy at Meriden
Winter in the Library
Well!! Christmas is nearly upon and what a busy time it’s proving to be. Don’t panic if you are running out of time ideas or patience – we are here to help!
Planning a theatre or pantomime treat? The library has a colourful display of many of the local shows to help you make your choice, as well as lots of tourist information to take away.
Catching up with old friends of family? We have free Internet access & computers available throughout the day to help you contact loved ones. If you are not sure how to get started, ask the library staff about courses. Wee have a tutor from Age Concern available to give lessons to the over 50’s, as well as course prospectus for Adult Education in the area.
Stuck for Christmas present ideas? Why not come along and purchase a book token from the library. These make a thoughtful gift for any age. As always the library has plenty going on over the festive period and into New Year. Please come and join us for our regular coffee mornings on the last Thursday of each month from 10.00am – 12 noon – every body is welcome For the younger members of the family we have an under 5’s story time & activity session every Monday between 2.45pm –3.15pm during term time.
Finally in the New Year we are hoping to introduce some “taster sessions” for any one interested in researching their family history. From where we begin through to family history on the Internet, we would like to help! Please ask staff at the library for further details
MERIDEN
LIBRARY READERS' GROUP
Programme for the start of 2007 is as follows: -
January - Christmas books - books that we have read or received over the Christmas period.
February - Explorers!
March - books by Martin Amis
We still meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30 pm but no longer at Meriden Library. Details of the venue are available from Library staff. Please come and join us! Sue Fuller
Balsall Common Group
In May the first person to answer my enquiry regarding forming a U3A was a lady from Meriden who has now joined us. Another enquiry was from a lady and gentleman also from Meriden who although they did not join us being already involved in Solihull U3A they did give me tremendous support, advice and encouragement and from then on the list of interested persons grew and suddenly I had a Treasurer and a Secretary and a group co-ordinator.
In September we had our inaugural meeting and 56 became paid up members from Balsall Common Meriden, Hockley Heath, Coventry and Knowle. Now with 82 members we have become officially registered as a U3A Group, and thus spurred on have decided to go for membership of a hundred before we cap.
We have a regularly monthly meeting with a speaker on the 4 th Monday of the month in The Village Hall Station Road, Balsall Common and we have just formed our first 12 coordinated groups. If you would like to know more contact Anne Santos, Chairman on email – info@balsallcommonu3a.org or phone 01676 534003
Locally produced Lamb and Honey Fowlers Cheese and Berkswell Cheese
***** For Christmas***** Bronze Turkeys, Geese, Cockerels and Ducks
We breed and rear all the Pork we sell and we prepare and cook everything ourselves.
Opening times:Tuesday –Saturday 8.00am- 5.30pm
Florist
THE GREEN MAIN ROAD MERIDEN 01676 522294
Call in and see Call in and see Call in and see Call in and see our range of our range of Christmas Christmas Decorations and Decorations and and and
Teddy Bears Teddy Bears
Festive table arrangements, holly table arrangements, holly wreaths, ribbons and candles. wreaths, ribbons and candles. wreaths, ribbons and candles. wreaths, ribbons and candles. Flowers and Flowers Flowers and plants delivered for plants delivered for delivered for delivered for Christmas Christmas
We also stock We greeting cards and greeting cards and greeting cards greeting cards gift gift gift--wrappings wrappings wrappings
Tom’s Butchery Tom’s Butchery Tom’s Butchery Tom’s Butchery Established 25 years Established 25 years Established 25 Established 25 3 The Green The Meriden Meriden Meriden Meriden Telephone: Telephone: 01676 522822 01676 522822
• Genuine Scotch Angus Beef sold as seen on TV
• Wide selection of prize winning sausages
• Best quality English Lamb & pork
• Local farm turkeys, boneless turkey breast, fresh farm chicken
• Wide selection of bacon including dry cure English
• Deli counter with a wide selection of cheese, pies and cooked meats
Meriden Nursery
Toddler Group at Methodist Church Hall Main Road
Tuesdays 10,00-11.30am
This is an informal, friendly group for adults who care for young children and babies. Come and meet other parents and carers for a chat, refreshments are provided for children and adults at a small cost of £1.50 per family. Children can play safely in the hall or garden. Each week there is a different craft activity and song time for the children
Sally Thompson 01676 522858
1st Meriden Guides
Girls!! If you are 10-14yrs and want to have lots of fun, enjoy challenges and would like to make new friends then come along and join us.
Meetings are at the Meriden Methodist Hall, Main Road, Meriden
Wednesday evenings during term time: 7.30pm-9pm
Phone Hazel Matthews 01676 522862
and Meditation and Relaxation
Come and discover how the beautiful flowing movements of this ancient art can improve your wellbeing. Relax and enjoy simple calming relaxation and meditation techniques.
Mondays 9.30-10.30am
Meriden Village Hall Call Jacqui on 07703
…the perfect start to your day!
Meriden Surgery and Pharmacy News Meriden Surgery and Pharmacy News
BALSALL COMMON & MERIDEN GROUP PRACTICE
Old School house, Main Road, Meriden CV7 7NG Tel 522252 Surgery Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00
Emergencies - when 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 Mon-Fri. Please quote your computer number.
48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN FOR ALL PRESCRIPTION REQUESTS IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ALL PATIENTS TO CHECK THAT PRESCRIPTIONS COLLECTED (EITHER FROM THE CHEMIST OR THE SURGERY) DETAIL THE MEDICATION ORIGINALLY REQUESTED. REFUNDS WILL NOT BE GIVEN BY THE PRACTICE FOR MEDICATION DISPENSED BUT NOT REQUIRED
Home Visits : If patients are too ill to attend the surgery, or are housebound and need a doctor to visit them at home please telephone the surgery BEFORE 10.00am
Comments : If you would like to make any comments, complaints or suggestions concerning the surgery please contact Joanne Hope , Practice manager on 01676 532213 or in writing to the surgery.
In an “out of hours” emergency
The Practice uses a GP co-operative Solidoc and Deputising Service (West Midlands Medical Duty Service) for emergencies outside normal surgery hours. The co-operative has a PrimaryCare Centre based in the Fracture Clinic at Solihull Hospital. West Midlands deputising service cover from 12.00 midnight to 8.30am everydaybut Sunday. Solidoc cover all other out of hour emergencies 01676 532587
Appointments at Meriden Surgery
The surgery operates a 48-hour booking system for an appointment with a Doctor at the Practice
For example: if you ring on Tues at 10.00am we aim to offer an appointment with a Doctor by Thursday 10.00am. Some clinics may be able to be booked 2 weeks in advance.
To book an appointment at the Meriden Surgery the following time scale applies:
Appointments Available from
MONDAY AM THURSDAY 2.00pm MONDAY PM FRIDAY 8.30am
TUESDAY AM FRIDAY 2.00pm TUESDAY PM MONDAY 8.30am
WEDNESDAY AM MONDAY 2.00pm WED PM CLOSED
THURSDAY AM TUESDAY 2.00pm
THURSDAY PM WEDNESDAY 8.30am
FRIDAY AM THURSDAY 8.30am
FRIDAY PM THURSDAY 8.30am
Meriden Volunteers For Cancer Research UK
Tel /Fax 01676 522722
Mon – Fri 9am to 6pm
Saturday 9am to 5pm
Sunday Closed
We operate a prescription collection service for the convenience of our customers. Prescriptions are collected from the Meriden Surgeryonce a dayat 8.30am. Please allow 24 hours before collecting your medication from the pharmacy.
We had a verysuccessful night on November 3 rd at Heart of England Social Club and a profit of £1,300 was made. Thank you to everyone who supported the event. Jan West, the area organiser, presented a certificate to saywe have raised £250,000 over the years. We are now planning next years programme. We hope to have a quiz night and a Rock n’ Roll night in February& March. Details have not yet been finalised so look out for posters. Next year the ladies night will be held in October to coincide with the national event. New ideas for this event would be welcome! Thank you for your support over the past year. New volunteers would be very welcome
Mary Warr 01676 522160
Carol Lindeque 07811 613905
CHANGE FOR THE BETTER
Have you noticed how stiles are disappearing from the footpaths around Meriden?
This is the result of work carried out by A Coventry Way Association in conjunction with Solihull Council Footpaths Department the intention being to make the walk featured in the summer edition of "THE MAG" stile free and to be completed by mid January 2007.
This year our working party has met on the third Sunday of each month but last month a gate was stolen between delivery on the Friday and the Sunday. Thus in future our party will meet the third Wednesday in each month and install the gates immediately on delivery.
If you would like to join in this extremely satisfying and fun morning why not contact me?
John Green 02476 503044 or e-mail john@jagtlg.plus.com
Inner Wheel Club of Meriden
Iwould like to thank everyone who attended the quiz night that we held in October at the Village Hall. It was great to see so manypeople from the village supporting us. We raised the grand sum of £150 towards the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, which is this year’s chosen charity. The Merlin singers will be back to entertain us again next Spring, so watch out for details of this concert. We had an hilarious evening when theylast entertained us and we are looking forward to their return.
Valerie Martin, President 01676 522963
B utternut Squash Pie
1 medium butternut squash
½ lb mushrooms
1/2lb Stilton cheese
1 tin whole chestnuts (or fresh)
Puff pastryto cover pie
Cut squash into slices (as you would a melon) and remove seeds.
Put a dab of butter on each slice and roast in a hot oven for about ½ hour.
Cool and then remove skin and dice.
Lightlyfryquartered mushrooms
Mix altogether with the chestnuts and put in pie dish and dot with cubed cheese
Cover with puff pastryand cook for about 30 minutes at 200degrees centigrade.
This delicious dish is ideal for a winter supper and will serve 5-6 people.
Thanks to Joan Jones for the recipe
CAMEO CAMEO
Come and Meet Each Other at the Community Centre on the 4th Friday of the
.
We have again had some very interesting speakers and meetings. In August David White spoke movingly about the life of his mother who lived to be 101 years old! At an early age she became stepmother to triplet boys when her friend died in childbirth and she offered to look after them and subsequently married their father. Mrs. White then had three sons herself. Although life was sometimes hard she made the most of it and was sustained by her strong Christian belief. She was delighted to receive congratulations from the Queen on both her hundredth and her hundred and first birthday.
At the Harvest Celebration Meeting in September Ivy Arnold spoke on the changing seasons with anecdotes from her childhood on the farm. Afterwards the Bring and Buy sale for the charity InterArc raised £66. In October the members entertained each other with interesting and even funny stories about their experiences in their jobs years ago.
Looking to the future, we have arranged an interesting programme to cheer us up in the forthcoming winter. At the December meeting we are celebrating Christmas with Margaret Oliver and her Singing Group followed by tea and mince pies. We look forward to welcoming more friends to this and our other meetings so if you need information or a lift please telephone:
Ellen 522534 or Peggy 522221
Forthcoming Meetings:-
December 15th Christmas Celebration with Margaret Oliver and her Singing Group
January 26th ‘Opening the Book’ – Rev. Mary Rai
February 23rd Valentine Stories
Age Concern Solihull Neighbourhood Care Scheme
With the help of a grant from the Big Lottery, Age Concern Solihull were able to set up the Neighbourhood Care Scheme that now operates all over the borough. The success of the scheme is down to the efforts of our volunteers who give so much of their time –this could be through befriending; where a volunteer will visit an older person who has been referred to us because they feel lonely and isolated. We may also be able to help with transport for shopping trips or appointments. Also we can help with small practical jobs around the house such as broken curtain rails, replacing batteries in smoke alarms or changing fluorescent tubes. We take referrals from various sources including Social Services, hospital workers, families, friends or neighbours so if you wish to refer someone please call us on 0121 705 6528 – you can also refer yourself!
Volunteers needed
Due to an ever-increasing waiting list we are always in need of more volunteers to help with the scheme. So if you feel you could help by visiting an older person at home to provide a bit of company or by driving someone to get a little bit of shopping please contact us – it is very rewarding and you have the full support of Age Concern.
Other services provided by Age Concern Solihull Carers Support Scheme. Information & Advice. Will Writing. Attendance Allowance forms.
Products & Services – Insurance – home –travel- motor.
Gas and Electric. Funeral Plans and Aid Call personal alarms. (Often home visits can be arranged)
Neighbourhood Care Scheme 0121 705 6528
Products & Services 0121 711 3849
Main office for all other services 0121 705 9128
Phone
Paul
Music on a Winter’s Night
Gaynor Keeble Mezzo Soprano
Michael Clifton-Thompson Tenor
Colin Druce Piano
With guests Esther Woo With guests Esther Woo With Esther Woo With Esther Woods dsds ds and Damien Carter and Damien Carter and Damien and Damien
7.30pm
Saturday 13th January 2007
Holy Trinity Church
Beauchamp Avenue, Leamington Spa
Tickets £12/£8 (concessions)
Popular music from opera and musicals and pieces for solo clarinet and saxophone
Contact 07702 721775 or Contact via email:impressionPR@btinternet.com
Proceeds to the Acorns
Children’s Hospice
Don’t forget the
Mag
1st Meriden Scout Group
Due to the success of the 1 st Meriden Beaver Cub Group, we are pleased to let you know that we are now able to offer 2 separate meetings at the Scout Hut
1st Meriden Beaver Colony (ages 6-8)
Meeting Mondays 6.30pm –7.30pm Telephone Jo (522625) or Gaynor (523191)
Please let us know if you have a child who would like to join, or if you are an adult who is happy to help.
1st Meriden Scouts thank Bob Kipling and his son Matt for installing windows, very much appreciated
Meriden Cricket Club
CHRISTMAS CHARITY
Wednesday 13th December 7.30pm
At the Queens Head
Old Road Meriden
Presented by your ever popular Quiz Master
RickWise
Entry £1 per person (max 5 persons per team) Raffle to be drawn at the end of the quiz
All proceeds to Children in Need
Nova Dry Cleaners Nova Dry Cleaners
180, Station Road, Balsall Common
For all your dry cleaning and laundry requirements
Dry cleaning
Leather & suede
Laundry services
Alterations
Shoe repairs
Curtains
Quilts
Bedding
Wedding gowns
Friends in Retirement Friends
Please remember the coffee mornings at the Village Hall, Station Road, Balsall Common. The dates are: December 14 th , January18th, and February15 th (The teens!) We are anxious to increase our numbers to cover the new higher rent. Tai Chi and rambling would be pleased to welcome new members. Both are good for your health (and fun too)
Bridge would also be happyto have reasonably experienced new players. Bowls, Art, Patchwork and Swimming continue apace.
Have a Good Christmas
New Members are always made welcome to groups. The phone number to ring for further information is 01676 532537
Throughout December Stonebridge Golf Club will be running a number of party nights, please contact Lynn to discuss your arrangements on 01676 522442 ext 2
The Bridge Restaurant at Stonebridge Golf Club is now open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday lunch Times
Book a Table during December January & February and receive a bottle of wine free
With an exciting new menu bookings are advisable Telephone 01676 522442 ext 5
Meriden Village Hall is available for private parties etc. Contact Valerie Martin 01676 522963 Rates are £9.00per hour
Queen’s Head
Old road Meriden
Monday night is music night, come along and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx
December 4 th Lizzie
December 11 th Keith Brett
December 18 th Back Beat
January8 th SkyHigh
January15th TBA
January22nd Kellie
January29 th Hank Martin
February5th Chris Richard
February12 th TBA
February19th Julie Christie
February26 th TBA
Phone 01676 522256 for more information
Pop in for good food and good company
For details of your local Rosemary Conley class (Meriden, Balsall Common, Solihull)
Call 0121 705 7078
First class free with this voucher! All classes include weigh-in, talk & optional exercise www.rosemary-conley.co.uk
(membership £10 class fee £5)
The easiest way to remember your wife’s birthday is to forget it just once!!!
Tenders are invited for Contracts to be awarded for the forthcoming financial year 1st April 2007 - 31st March 2008. If you are interested in tendering for any of the following 6 Contracts please supply information to Clerk, Mrs M Edwards, 3 Thebes Close, Millison’s Wood, Coventry, CV5 9QW by Friday 8th December 2006 marking the envelope TENDER.
CONTRACT 1 - April 1st 2007 - 31st March 2008
Playing Fields
April to October. (Subject to weather conditions).
• To weeklypick litter and cut grass.
Between November and March
• To weeklypick litter.
• To clear and cut weeds round the edge of the field and ditches, once.
• To cut the inside of the hedge, once.
The Green
April to October. (Subject to weather conditions).
• To weeklycollect litter, cut grass and trim.
Planting
• Summer planting of trough arrangements around village (28) and watering through season.
• Winter planting of troughs around village (28).
• To maintain garden around Meriden Cross and supplyof summer and winter planting. Allotments - Leys Lane
Between November and March
• To cut hedge on Leys Lane, once.
CONTRACT 2 - April 1st 2007 - 31st March 2008
Playing Fields
• Clean around PlayEquipment and Buildings/Field at Maxstoke Lane weekly. MonthlyRate
CONTRACT 3 - April 1st 2007 - 31st March 2008
Bus Shelters .
• To clear litter weeklyand notifyClerk of anyproblems with Shelters. MonthlyRate
•
CONTRACT 4 - April 1st 2007 - 31st March 2008
Bus Shelters
• To repair Bus Shelters (10) and paint, as and when requested (Excluding materials). Rate / hour
• CONTRACT 5 - April 1st 2007 - 31st March 2008.
Benches and Notice boards
• To maintain and treat benches (20) and notice boards (5). Rate / hour
CONTRACT 6 - April 1st 2007 - 31st March 2008.
Public Conveniences, Main Road
• To unlock, lock, inspect and clean daily. MonthlyRate N.B.
All persons submitting tenders must:
1) Provide own tools and equipment for Contracts.
2) Accept responsibility for all Health and Safety issues involved with the Contracts.
You are also invited to register with the Parish Council for emergency / essential maintenance contracts, such as painting, cleaning or repair work. If you are interested please supply information to Clerk.
MERIDEN PARISH COUNCIL
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.
December 2006
13th Parish Council Meeting
January 2007 10 th Finance Meeting/ Sub Committee Meeting
22nd Parish Council Meeting
February 2007 14th Sub-Committee Meeting 26th Parish Council Meeting
Your Parish Council can be contacted: The Clerk to the Parish Council Mrs M Edwards
Your Parish Councillors are: Clive Jones (Chairman), Bob Kipling (Vice Chairman), Jackie Eccleston, Graeme Goodsir, Shirley Goodsir, Stan Grundy, Jane Isham and Nigel Robinson.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
COORDINATOR: Your Neighbourhood Coordinator at Solihull MBC is Susan East. Tel:0121 704 6435 e-mail neighbourhoodmanagementarea3@ solihull.gov.uk
The Parish Council was again invited to the winner’s presentation evening, The Green being a finalist for Community Involvement classification. Sorry to report it was not a winner, but we take the opportunity to thank Brian and Elaine Ball for the time and effort taken in mowing the grass and planting and looking after the plant troughs and area around the ‘Centre Cross’. Councillors and many residents do appreciate the appearance of The Green, thank you. Laurence Wood was also a finalist in the Best Hanging Basket competition, but on this occasion not a winner. There’s always next year.
2) RURAL NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING - POLICE COMMUNITY VISITS
The Police intend to be attending The Green, on Monday morning 18 th December from 10 00am- 12 00noon. Further dates, when notified, will be posted on the Library notice board.
3) NEIGHBOURHOOD CO-ORDINATOR.
Susan East from Solihull MBC held a surgery in the Library, 26 th October, but is to join with Police in the community vehicle on The Green, 18 th December and future dates. Telephone 0121 704 6435 and Email neighbourhoodmanagementarea3@solihull.gov.uk.
4) CYCLISTS’ TOURING CLUB
A request has been made to alter the date next year for the Memorial Service; this will now be 13 th May 2007.
5) THE GREEN.
The Green is registered under the Commons Registration Act 1965 with Meriden Parish Council as the owner. Can all event holders please submit a request to the Parish Council for use of The Green informing of type of activity and proposed date. Thank you.
6) MERIDEN PARISH COUNCIL NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF AUDIT
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2006
AUDIT COMMISSION ACT 1998
THE ACCOUNTS AND AUDIT REGULATIONS 2003 (SI 2003/533)
1) Date of announcement 5 th October 2006.
2) NOTICE is hereby given that the audit for accounts year ending 31 st March 2006 was completed on 28 th September 2006 and the report and statement of accounts is available for copying and inspection by contacting the Clerk at 3, Thebes Close, Millison’s Wood, Coventry, CV5 9QW, telephone: 01676 522076. M Edwards (Clerk of the Meriden Parish Council)
7) MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING
Thank you to Parish Councillors Graeme and Shirley Goodsir for organising. They in turn thank all those who supported an enjoyable Macmillan Coffee Morning in September, raising £235.53, despite the bad weather. A particular thank you to Vicky Goodsir for all her help and a marvellous Tombola.
THEIR NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE
This is the second in a series commissioned by the Meriden Mag for Paul & Melanie Lee to share their research findings on the officers and men listed on the Meriden War Memorial. Here, they feature those who are commemorated on memorials in Belgium, which they visited in 2005, accompanied by John Moorhouse.
.
Captain Edward Nugent Bankes 2 nd Dragoon Guards (Queen’s Bays) attached to the 3 rd Battalion, The Royal Dublin Fusiliers, son of Henry H Nugent Bankes and the Hon. Mrs Nugent Bankes; husband of Letitia Adelaide Bankes, of Meriden Hall. Captain Bankes served in the South African Campaign with Lumsden’s Horse and The Dorset Imperial Yeomanry, and subsequently in the 2 nd Dragoon Guards. Captain Bankes was killed at Saint Julien, France on 26 th April 1915, aged 39. He is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial to the Missing (Panel 44/46), Ypres, Belgium. His wife worked as a VAD (Voluntary Aid detachment) at Berkswell Hall during the First World War and was responsible for the construction of the Meriden War Memorial, she also arranged for her husband to be commemorated within St Laurence’s Church with a beautiful stained-glass window. In 1918, Mrs. Bankes was made the founding President of the Meriden Women’s Institute.
Also commemorated on the Menin Gate is Trooper Percy Edgar Bowen who served with The Leicester Yeomanry and died on the 13 th May 1915. At 8:00pm every day of the year there is a Last Post Ceremony performed by the Ypres Fire Brigade buglers at the Menin Gate; John Moorhouse is pictured with the buglers during the trip in May 2005.
13 km south of Ypres, at the Berks Cemetery Extension stands the Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing, where Private Leonard Russell , 14 th Battalion, The Royal Warwickshire Regiment is commemorated (Panels 2 & 3). Private Russell was the son of Edward Russell and died on 13 th April 1918 aged 31.
The Menin Gate memorial is one of four memorials in Belgium Flanders to the missing, who have no known grave in France and Belgium. It is quite likely that Captain Bankes, Trooper Bowen and Private Russell would have passed through Ypres on their way to the battlefields. Some 54,000 officers and men whose graves are not known are recorded on the Menin Gate and a further 11,000 are recorded on the Ploegsteert Memorial.
If you have further information on those featured within this article or indeed on any of the officers and men commemorated on the Meriden War Memorial, please contact either John Moorhouse or Paul & Melanie Lee via the Meriden Mag.
IN FLANDERS FIELDS
John McRae 1872 - 1918 In Flanders Fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row That mark our place, and in the sky
The Larks, still bravely singing, Fly scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Lived and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders Fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe; To you from failing hands we throw The Torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders Fields.
A Message from Caroline Spelman MP
Keeping Warm this Winter
After the warmest October on record, winter hit us with vengeance as soon as November began. I am sure many of us reached out to the central heating controls and quickly adjusted the thermostat. But with rising energy costs, many people will be worried about the financial consequences. In October last year, the Energy Retail Association [ERA] set up the Home Heat Helpline to provide a free phone service for help and practical advice on paying fuel bills.. In the first year over 32,000 people had called the Helpline.
This summer the ERA has worked with a number of charities including Gingerbread, Carers UK and the Royal British Legion to raise awareness of the assistance which the Home Heat Helpline can give to lone parents, families on low incomes, older people and carers.
Research has shown that over 5 million older people in the UK could be risking their health by failing to plan ahead for this winter. That is over eight per cent of the population and on that statistic; a number of people in Meriden will be affected.
If you would like practical assistance or advice to help you afford to keep warm this winter, why not telephone the Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 to speak to one of the 35 specially trained advisors.
To contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery at Chelmsley Wood, Castle Bromwich or the Balsall Common Office, please contact Katy Steele at the following address Constituency Office 285 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common CV7 7EL Tel 01676 534 359 Fax 01676535147 email caroline@carolinespelman.com www.carolinespelman.com
Caroline Spelman advice surgery dates
Date Time
Friday8 th Dec 4.30pm – 6.00 pm
Sat 16 th Dec 9am – 10.30am
11am – 12 noon
Location
ConstituencyOffice
285 Kenilworth Road
Balsall Common
ChelmsleyWood Library
Arden Hall Castle
Bromwich
Friday12 th January 4.30pm – 6.00 pm ConstituencyOffice
Saturday20 th January 9am – 10.30am
11am – 12 noon
285 Kenilworth Road
Balsall Common
ChelmsleyWood Library
Arden Hall Castle
Bromwich
Thursday1 st February 4.30pm Dickens Heath Library
Saturday3 rd February 9am –10.30am 11.am – 12noon
ChelmsleyWood Library
Arden Hall Castle
Bromwich
Friday9 th February 4.30 – 6.00pm Balsall Common Office
Saturday 24th
February 9am – 10.30am
11 – 12noon
ChelmsleyWood Library
Arden Hall, Castle
Bromwich
Two Centuries of Meriden, Connecticut, USA
Did you know that there are seven Meridens in the USA?
One of them in Connecticut celebrated its bicentenaryin June this year. Glenn Richter (assistant managing editor) of the dailypaper sent a copyof the Record-Journal celebrating the event to Caroline Spelman and a copyto the libraryin the village. We contacted Glenn and he sent the article below about life in Meriden USA.
Castle Craig an observation tower at the highest point of the town
Dear Mrs. Argyle,
The city hall
Meriden Connecticut probablygot its name from a farm in the Home Counties, but it is the centre of Connecticut as we are the Centre of England. Nearbytowns include Bristol, New Britain, Warwick and Manchester. It was originallya manufacturing town, but this has changed to high technologyover the last few years. At one time it was known as the Silver City, work in metals has always been one of Meriden industry’s strong points. 60,000 people live in the town so it is quite different to our village.
When you wrote that you'd welcome a few words about day-to-day life in the Meriden "across the pond," I thought, gosh, does anybody here actually write about stuff like that? I mean, we do write about interesting people, civic events, what's going on in the schools, who's giving a talk at the library and who's having an all-you-can-eat breakfast to raise money for what charity. We even write about the weather, sometimes. And we publish gobs and gobs of letters to the editor. And we run six, seven pages a week of what we call "Front Porch News" - community news of the sort that can easily get over-looked, except by the people who are directly involved.
But a lot of what we do is report what our government is up to, and I'm sure that would be even more boring to you than it is to some of us – important though it is to the people who live here, pay taxes here and send their tots to school here. You know: How's the new police chief getting on with the neigh-borhood associations - and the police union? Will the City Council have to raise the tax rate again this year? Why did the Board of Education in the next town over drive off their last school superintendent, and who's going to want to work for them now? That sort of thing. But back to your question: What's life like in Meriden, Connecticut, U.S.A.?
To be honest, right at the moment it's fairly annoying. You see, we're in the homestretch of a particularly irritating and disagreeable election campaign - the most unpleasant we've had since, well, since the last national election, in 2004 (in oddnumbered years we elect our local councils and boards of education and such, so there's never a rest).
But unlike that one, this one isn't even a presidential race. This time, we have all kinds of people running for legislative offices, both state and national, and it's the national mood that's fouling things up. Every seat in the House of Representatives is up for grabs, as is about a third of the Senate. The thing is, the country is so evenly divided - so many races are so tight - that it's bringing out the worst in every-one. I've heard that in Britain your campaigns are publicly funded and last maybe two weeks. Our politicians spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on an election - millions for some contests - and most of it goes for nasty "attack" ads on TV. And they've been going at it for months; at least since July, or was it June? Turn on the tube or the radio and you'll hear ad after ad: "So-and-so is a bad person," "What's-her-name hates puppies." "This one voted to raise taxes 27 times." "That one took $400,000 from the oil industry." Open the mailbox and it's more of the same - as often as not, there's a big, glossy postcard sort of thing with a picture of one or the other of them in the very act of committing his or her characteristic offense. The media advisers and demographics engineers and marketing specialists tell the candidates they have to do this stuff, so they do it. The money that fuels all this bickering comes from individuals, corporations, unions, political action committees (called PACs) and mysterious tax-exempt organizations called 501(c)(3)s that nobody seems to know much about. All we do know is that it's a damn nuisance and we can't wait for it to be over on Nov 7. As for the British system, thank your lucky stars - and don't change a thing. Fortunately for us, the end is in sight . Almost. Glenn Richter
Reach Assistant Managing Editor Glenn Richter at grichter@record-journal.com or (203) 317-2222
Merry Christmas from West Midlands Fire Service
The summer has come and gone and is now a fading memory, the nights are closing in and Christmas is fast approaching us. People very often ask me when is the Fire service at its busiest during the year? Most people would assume that this would be the summertime, however the Christmas period is also a very busy time for the Fire service.
Christmas is a time for fun and festivities, where people can relax and enjoy being with friends and family. However did you know that you are also more likely to die in a house fire at this time of year than at any other time? Over 10% of all fire deaths occur during December.
Whilst you’re thinking about how to make Christmas extra special for the kids, spare a thought for their safety and yours. During December we are more vulnerable to fire. We spend more time at home, we’re relaxed and happy and our defences are down. Fairy lights, candles, even enjoying a glass of wine with a cigarette can be potential fire hazards. Due to the fact that generally people perform a lot more cooking, also the consumtion of alcohol increases and this can cause people to be less fire safety concious. Many people light candles for religious or decorative purposes and this in itself can be hazardous. Decorations and fairy lights that are used for a couple of weeks every year then packed away in a box for the following 50 weeks might not always be in tip top condition, so always ensure they are checked by a qualified person before using. It has been known for ceiling decorations to become loose and swing down in front of the fire with the potential to cause a fire.
If anyone would like a ‘Free Fire Safety Check’ on their property call 0800 389 5525
Centre Stage Present
Dick Whittington
By Stephen Duckham
Heart of England School Hall, Balsall Common
January 26th 27th
February 2nd, 3rd at 7.30pm And matinees at 2.30pm on 27th & 3rd
Available from Available from Atkinson & Stilgoe Atkinson & Balsall Common 01676 532179 532179
The idea of a compensation culture is far from new. In the National Archives are fascinating papers showing how Meriden men and women claimed against the government in 1646. Let’s turn the clock back to Meriden during the Civil War 1642-46 when Charles1st stayed at Great Packington shortlybefore the battle of Edge Hill and the trained bands (a type of home guard) marched from Birmingham to Coventrybywayof the village to lend support to the City’s Parliamentarygarrison.. The inhabitants were forced to paymanytaxes collected bylocal yeomen such as Thomas Weyman, Thomas West and Adrian Shakespeare all of HollyberryEnd or Thomas Change an inn keeper, Richard Patrick of Patrick’s Farm and Robert Harper the wood monger with a business on the village street. Some cash was to raise or maintain Parliamentarytroops, fortifyKenilworth Castle and finance the campaign in Ireland. Tax was also paid in kind such as the provisions sent to Maxstoke Castle or the free billeting of soldiers- the latter the most disliked form of payment. It is when we get down to personal details it becomes most interesting. John Baldwin, Mr Holbeche of Meriden Hall’s son in law ran the high class Bull Head Inn where endless soldiers and horses sought free accommodation. The same was true for the widow Alice Parker at the Bell at the foot of the Hill She asserted she was owed £33-18-2d. Another widowed innkeeper MaryHarper, whose home still stands opposite the present Bull’s Head, claimed over £22. The village baker John King supplied bread to the value of £19. While Robert Harper ended his long, precise list of unwanted guests with ‘14 supped 1 night and 3 stayed all night’. You can feel. John Halsall’s irritation when his horses were commandeered and there was ‘a whole troop of horse put into mowing grass’ and sympathise with William Field who had not received the market value of his herd of cows. Did Thomas Paddythe miller near Molands Bridge suffer more because he was the agent for the Royalist Lord of the Manor, the Earl of Derby? His submission is headed ‘plunder’ and included ‘a mare and a new bridle, a purse and 7/-, 4 cheeses and items of clothing’ whereas Iwonder did the aggressive personalityof Richard Patrick gentleman, cause a reaction? He lost more than anyone if we can believe him: such as 2 swords, 2 guns, knives, 3 hats, boots, purses, cash, 4 cheeses, sugar and a turkeyto name but a few, in all valued at almost £40. Even the poorer sort lost clothing and fodder and Widow Chaplin at IvyHouse Farm one night in 1643 has as manyas 18 cavalrymen (all with horses) on her premises. The village was constantlyoverflowing with the armyit seems.
Doreen Agutter
OUTSIDE CATERING SPECIALISTS
WDF Catering
Whether you are hosting a party at your own premises, or seeking to hire a great venue, W.D.F Catering can help you with every aspect of your event.
Please call for a Free Menu & Quote Wendy - 07974 910763 De Montfort House, Fillongley, Warks, CV7 8EZ
Centre of England Community Church 01676 523050
Monday- Friday, Centre Shop open 10.00am - 4.00pm Friday Fellowship 3.00pm – 4.00pm at The Centre
Isaiah chapter 9 verse 6
A child is born to us! A son is given to us! And he will be our ruler. He will be called “Wonderful” “Counsellor” Mighty God” “Eternal Father” “Prince of Peace”
In 2000 years God’s word has never changed. He is the same yesterday; the same today and he will be the same tomorrow. The Bible is still the most solid book in the world today. How sad that the real meaning of Christ-mas is neglected by so many today. Consumerism threatens to take over our spiritual heritage in this nation amongst other things. When the wise men came to visit the baby Jesus in the stable they recognised the importance of who He was, when they said, “Where is the baby born to be king of the Jews? We saw his star when it came up in the East, and we have come to worship him.”
The time will come when Jesus will return as mentioned in Matthew’s gospel and the Book of Revelation. Not as a baby in a manger, but as the Lord of Righteousness. He came as the Suffering Servant the first time, but the second advent of Messiah, He will come in all His glory, and all the Holy angels with Him to the Mount of Olives. There He will institute a reign of justice and righteousness upon the earth and all nations shall worship at His feet. They will be separated then one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. His sheep will know His voice, but the goats will be banished into eternal separation from God. Which side of the fence will you be on?
Dates for the Diary
Please note Fellowship now meet on Fridays 3-4pm at the rear of The Centre. All are welcome, please come and join us. Sunday December 17th 6.30pm Centre Christmas celebrations Strawberry bank Hotel, come and sing your favourite carols, the speaker will be Dr Andris Ivins, a trustee of the Heart of England Outreach.
Contrary to rumours the church and ministry is very much alive and kicking! Due to Pam and John’s itinerary on Sundays, Friday has become the main meeting. Details of other meetings can be obtained at the Centre. The centre shop open 10am- 4pm Monday to Friday
Thank-you for your continued support, recently we have sent 85 bag s of humanitarian aid to very poor people in the Ukraine and countries of the former Soviet Union
If you need help please ring on 01676 523050, preferably to make an appointment. Home visits are only made by request, please be patient if we can’t come straight away, The Centre is always very busy, and all the staff are volunteers, and do a fantastic job. We aim to serve the community, and be available to listen and encourage where we can with the resources that are available.
Have a really blessed and peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year. Rev John and Pam Yates
Comment
Comment
Comment from Men
Men who Lunch
who
Lunch Comment from
who Lunch
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Meriden Knights Chess Club
Two or more of our players have gone off to university; we wish them the best of luck and thank them for their support over the years. We have a team playing in the Coventryand District Chess league and theyhave had a great start to the season, with four wins and a draw!
We still need new players, all ages and abilities and when we are not playing awaywe meet on Tuesdays in the Dawson Lounge in Meriden Methodist Church on the Main Road at 7.15pm. £1.50 a session for details phone 01676 521259
Shirley and Graeme Goodsir
The Farm Shop Farm Shop
Mi
Berkswell Traditional Farmstead Meats
Larges Farm Back Lane Farm Lane
Tel & fax 01676 522409 fax 01676
www.farmsteadmeats.co.uk
For meats of outstanding quality & flavour
• Fresh turkeys, geese, cockerels and ducks
• Licensed to sell Game
• All cuts of beef including beef on the bone
• Free Range Chickens
• Traditional pork with real crackling
• Real home cured bacon
• Famous Berkswell Ewes milk cheese
Warwickshire’s only accredited traditional breeds butcher
a truly traditional Christmas with Phil Tuckey “The Country Butcher”
Opening hours Fri 22nd & Sat 23rd December 8.00am - 6.00pm Sunday 24th 8.00am – 1.00pm
Meriden Women’s Institute
Meetings are held in the Village Hall on the first Monday in the month at 7.30pm. Our speakers are varied and our outings are really enjoyable.
At our November annual meeting, thanks were given to the committee members especially Mary Timms as she steps down as President. Mrs Joan Russell takes over the post. New members are very welcome to join for the New Year 2007. The first 3 events are as follows
Monday January 8th "Torn Corners" Photo restoration Steve Jenkins
Monday February 5th " We Haven't got a Form for it!"
Innes Brett
Monday March 5th Fashion Show- Open Evening Visitors and new members very welcome
The membership fee will include a monthly copy of the new W.I. Magazine
Don’t forget our Christmas Party on Monday December 4th
Speaker Martin Clarke "A Wiggle with a Giggle”
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. Room hire available for private functions Heart
For free professional advice On your trees and shrubs call your local Arborist on 024 7640 2137
Local Authority approved contractors ARB assoc risk assessment certified S Rotheram
THE THAI DELIGHT RESTAURANT EXOTIC
THAI CUISINE
Cooked in the Traditional Thai Way Open five days a week – Tuesday to Saturday Food can be ordered between the following times Tuesday – Thursday 7pm till 10.00pm Friday – Saturday 7pm till 10.30pm
Book to avoid disappointment Telephone 01676 522005 (10.00am until 10.30pm)
DEE HAS MOVED TO NEW NON-SMOKING RESTAURANT AT
MERIDEN HOTEL
MAIN ROAD
MERIDEN
Samantha Faulkner ABRSM
Associated Board Royal Schools of Music Teaching Diploma Piano, Flute and Music Theory
246 StoneburyAve
Eastern Green, Coventry 024 76467271
IDYLLIC GARDENS
Design and Construction
• Cultivated Turf & Lawns
• Patios - Paths - Yorkstone
• Block Paving - Drives
• Decking - Pergolas
• Fencing - Trellis Work
• All Brickwork - Ponds
• Garden Maintenance
Free advice & estimates
Portfolio and references available
01676 522 828
Mobile : 07976 205143
Meriden Methodist Nursery 113 Main Road
Under new management
Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings and every afternoon
We take children from 2 years of age, offering a safe, secure, happy, stimulating environment with fully qualified staff. We can arrange collection from the following school nurseries: Meriden, Berkswell, Hampton & Fillongley
Please contact us for an informal chat about your childcare arrangements. Full day-care can also be provided.
All aspects of Beauty Therapy to include; All of Beauty Therapy to include; Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Eye treatment, Facials Eye treatment, Facials
Eye Eye Facials, Caci facials and body treatments, , Caci facials and body treatments, Caci facials and body , Caci facials and body
Back and body massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology,
Back and massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology, Gel Nail Extensions, Body Wraps, Gel Nail Extensions, Body Wraps, Extensions, Wraps, Extensions, Wraps, Hot Stone Massage, Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun bed. Stone Massage, Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun Monthly offers available, call for details or to go on our mailing list
9-11, Birmingham Road, Millisons Wood, near Meriden CV5 9AY
METHODIST
CHURCH
Minister
Rev Jenny Dyer BA MTh Tel 01676 533737
Phone to arrange Marriages Baptisms and Funerals
Services
Sundaymorning 10.30am (Junior Church & crèche for children)
Christmas Eve December 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion led byRev Dr Stuart Jennings (Free Church Chaplain) Universityof Warwick and Coventry University
Christmas Day 10am at Balsall Common Supper Clubs
Christmas Party Thursday December 14th 7.00pm Buffet and Entertainment byThe Merlin Singers in Christmas Mode
February 14th Speaker - Tom Walters" The Boyfrom Berlin"
Reserve your supper by phoning Maureen on 522148
If someone has told you that ministers onlywork on Sundays, don't you believe it! And the same is true for church buildings. Yes, of course, what happens on a Sundayis veryimportant. Worship is the lifeblood of what we do. But during the week our building is serving the communityin a varietyof guises. Dancers meet here, and so do chess players, Guides and Brownies, small children, and others.
An important part of what happens here is the pre-school nursery, for children aged two to five. This is a successor to a playgroup started decades ago byMargaret Dawson, with some volunteer mums. The culture has changed, but the work goes on, meeting the needs of a new generation of the village's children, in a new way. If you would like a place for your child, phone Marilyn on 522337 or 07931 825694.
And if you would like to hire the building for a one-off or regular event, phone Alan and Maureen on 522148, who can also put you in touch with the other groups that meet here. Our building is a communityresource, and it is here to be used. Jenny Dyer
ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS
ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS
ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS
ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS
Rector Rev Michael Dawkins Tel 01676 522 719
The Rectory The Green Meriden CV7 7LN
Church Wardens Marian Theobald Tel 01676 523 475
Linda Barnett Tel 01676 523 277
Lay Reader Peter Wright Tel 01676 522 414
I have no idea who I am writing for. Can I be a little rude or do I have to be terribly polite? What a bore. Anyway, here comes Christmas; it’s time to feed the ducks. You’ll see vicars like me dishing out a sweetie or two to the children and throwing handfuls of pap to the ducks; and, blow me; they are so overstuffed already they just ignore the ‘feeders’ and float away like little galleons across the pond.
But Jesus of Bethlehem is not duck food. You get some idea of how dangerous he is when Herod tried to kill him, and of how precious he is when Joseph bundled him up and took him to Egypt. You hear nothing of him until he’s twelve, and then he’s into the prophets – God’s heart beat in history put into words. Nothing until he is thirty and into baptism – an extraordinary turning to God, and he is leading it.
Then it is the human condition – beggars and adulterers, thieves and terrorists, and he is dealing with all of them. He’s sidestepping hate and violence, rules and punishments. He’s breaking in with a new arrangement of the human heart. He’s bringing a new connection with God. Light in the blackness of some minds. Robust, loving self-hood in others. And then he is murdered.
Iraq all over again. ‘I don’t believe in God if he allows such suffering. He’s powerless in the face of it; He doesn’t exist.’ But He puts into our hands something as fragile as a baby – forgiveness with a power greater than death. Christmas and Easter reach out to us. Our culture screams back, ‘Don’t touch it!’ Individual thinking, turning and embracing Christ is almost impossible. But tell me, where else is the deepest love for you and hope for the world?
CHRISTMAS TIME SERVICES –
9 th December Saturday7.30pm Hampton Singers Christmas Concert
13 th December Wednesday6pm Christingle
17 th December Sunday2pm Cyclists’ Carol Service
23 rd December Saturday4pm Carol Singing on the Green
24 th December Sunday10.30am SundayService
24 th December SundayChristmas Eve 11.30 pm Midnight HolyCommunion
25 th December MondayChristmas Day10am HolyCommunion
31 st December Sunday10.30am Carols and especiallythe ones we’ve missed!
Hampton Singers present: Christmas Words & Music
St Laurence Church, Meriden Saturday 9th December 7.30 - 8.45 pm
A selection of much loved Christmas music and readings, with mince pies and mulled wine.
Tickets £5.00 (or £16 for a group of four)
Available at Meriden Library, the Corner Shop Hampton in Arden, or on the door, or contact
David Bixby 01675 442979
Hampton Singers welcome new recruitsEspeciallysopranos! If you enjoysinging, whynot tryus out? We are a choir of around 40 singers, do not audition, and welcome all singers. We rehearse on Mondayevenings in Hampton in Arden, and perform at least 3 concerts a year. In 2007, we will be performing Gilbert & Sullivan in the Spring and Handel’s Messiah in the Autumn.
For more information, call Sue Kiely 01675 443989 or Di de Woolfson 01675 442422
Ho! Ho! Ho!
Father Christmas' sledge broke down on Christmas Eve. He flagged down a passing motorist and asked, 'Can you help me fix my sledge?' 'Sorry,' the motorist replied. 'I'm not a mechanic - I'm a chiropodist.' 'Well, can you give me a toe?'
Hello Everyone
Meriden CE Primary School News
Autumn turns so quickly to winter and thoughts of Christmas – by the time you read this it will be even closer!
Charity is often in our minds at school – the wonderful array of Harvest gifts went to be distributed to local people by the Salvation Army; children bought and wore their Remembrance Poppies, decorated t-shirts and made donations to Children in Need, and generously filled shoeboxes with items for children in Eastern Europe and elsewhere to brighten up their Christmas. We thank all the children and their families for their thoughtfulness.
As usual school is busy organising visits and visitors to enhance learning – last week the upper Juniors all went to watch Shakespeare’s ‘Midsummer’s Night Dream’ for instance. Other classes have been to Cadbury World (Y2), the Botanical Gardens (Y5) and Coventry Cathedral (Y6). Visitors have included grandparents to talk about experiences during the war, the annual ‘Animal Man’ visit, and Solihull Children’s Fund who support the training of our Peer Mediators and run ‘Embrace’ the anti-bullying and anti-racist course for pupils. The Panto will be visiting us this year on Wednesday 13th December – oh yes it will!
We will soon be embarking on our own run of performances – The Upper Junior choir is taking part in a Cluster concert in Solihull on Monday 4th December the infants will be performing their Nativity play (10am on Monday 11th December for our village friends who would like to come – hope to see you there!), the Choir will be singing carols round the tree on the village green on Friday 24th November, Christingle at St Laurence’s Church is at 6pm on Wednesday 13th December and our Carol Service is on the last day of term, Wednesday 20th December at 9.10am.
‘Inspire’ Workshops
We have run these morning workshops for pupils with a parent or someone from home again this year. They are a great way of helping home understand how learning is happening in school, although we always make it fun and interesting too!
With these and several Class Assemblies too, we have seen lots of parents in school. We hope to see everyone at the PTA Christmas Fayre on Saturday 2nd December, from 1- 3pm.
We carry on improving the building all the time, as funds allow. All the corridors were decorated over halfterm holiday and look much improved and brighter. There will be playground resurfacing to prepare for the big playground improvement project soon; plus plans are moving to a detailed stage for the Children’s Centre accommodation.
All of this activity takes place for just one purpose – to make Meriden School a really good school for children to come to and learn in!
May I wish you all a very Happy Christmas.
Mrs J A Smith Head Teacher Writing
STRAWBERRY BANK HOTEL & RESTAURANT STRAWBERRY BANK HOTEL RESTAURANT
Your local service for Needleworks – Paintings – Photos
Prints – Coins Medals – or any 3D
Objects- Football Shirts or Trophies
Mirrors made for your Home. All work done on the premises.
Tel: 01676 535792
Next to Deeleys’ – Customer Car Park
Tuesday to Friday 10.00am to 5.00pm And Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm
Cafe open to the public from 8.00am – 2.00pm daily 7 days a week
Serving hot and cold food
Specialising in an all day breakfast for £3.60!
5 fishing lakes in glorious countryside Now selling a complete range of baits
Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk
We will be closed for Christmas from Monday 18 th December onwards. Re-open 7.00am Wednesday 3 rd Jan 2007
Meriden Tree of Thought
Its time for our second “Tree of Thought” for Macmillan Cancer Support, which Ihope will give as much pleasure as it did last year. It was verypleasing to me when so many of you told me how much it was appreciated. Further the fact that also manypeople valued the opportunityto dedicate a light to a loved one or friend was reallymoving. What a lovelywayof remembering and, at the same time, knowing you are helping to bring comfort to so manylocal people affected bycancer.
Dedication forms will be available from and thanks to: Meriden Tearooms, The Spar Shop, Lloyds Chemist and The Bulls Head. At the time of writing 23 rd October Ihave received agreed donations from Rockwell, De Mulders, Praesta Partners, Steve’s Industries, Godiva Print Ltd and Woods Farm. Mysincere thanks go to them for supporting our village project. Itrulyhope that you all enjoythe presence of the Tree and have a peaceful, happy& healthyChristmas.
Alan Lole
Reminder!! Deadline date for the spring issue
Monday 5th February 2007 contact Val Martin 174 Main Road, Meriden 01676 522963
val.simon@virgin.net
Margaret Argyle 3 The Croft, Meriden 01676 522453
Margaret.argyle@mattargyle.com
Treasurer: Adele Fox 16 James Dawson Drive, Meriden Deliveries: Keith & Kath Nightingale 01676 522125
Proof Reader: Lesley Rhodes
Useful Village Contact Numbers
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International Airmail
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11th December USA, Canada, Japan and Eastern Europe
13th December Western Europe
UK last posting dates
13th December Standard parcels
16th December Second Class
19th December First Class
21st December Special Delivery
22nd December Special deliverywith Saturday guarantee
Q.What do you get when you cross a Snowman with a vampire?
A. Frostbite
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MeridenPrimarySchool Mrs.J.Smith 01676522488
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LloydsChemist 01676522722
St.LaurenceChurch Rev.MichaelDawkins 01676522719
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CommunityCentreWarden PatDelaney 01676522867
“ “ “ ValFriend 01676522867
SolihullMBC 01217046000
DistrictCouncillors KenAllsopp 01217822408
DavidBell 01676535211
Dr.PeterLea 01676532577
MemberofParliament CarolineSpelman 01676534359
GirlGuidesGroup HazelMatthews 01676522862
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CricketClub AlanMacEvoy 01676522444
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