Come and join the children from Meriden school singing carols around the tree
Dedicate a light to a friend or loved one; forms are available from Meriden TeaRooms, Spar Shop, Blitz (Millisons Wood) Lloyds Chemist, Corley Canine Pool and Mills Newsagents (Balsall Common)
MERIDEN C. OF E. SCHOOL PTA
CHRISTMAS FAYRE SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER 1.00PM – 3.00PM
Gift Stalls galore, raffles, tombolas and loads of great games
Come and meet Santa and have your picture taken with him
Entrance 50p Entrance Pre school children free Pre school free
CAROL SINGING ON THE GREEN SATURDAY 22ND DECEMBER 4.00PM
EVERYONE WELCOME
ROTARY CLUB OF MERIDEN CHRISTMAS SLEIGH COLLECTION
Once again Santa and his sleigh will be flying through the village. Santa and his collectors will be out in the following areas. Proceeds will be split between the County Air Ambulance, Local and Rotary International Charities
Monday 10 Monday 10 Monday Monday th thth December December
6.30pm 6.30pm Millisons Wood
Starting at Albert Rd, Bonneville Close, James Dawson Drive
Open: Tuesday – Friday 12 noon – last orders 1.45pm
Monday – Saturday evening 6.30pm last orders 10.00pm
Sunday lunch 12 noon – last orders 1.45 pm
2 course lunch Tuesday – Friday £7.95 (starter & main course) excludes December 3-course evening TDH menu
Monday – Friday £15.95 Saturday evening £16.95 excludes December
3 course Sunday lunch £15.95
Also A La Carte menu available except Sunday lunch We have 2 function rooms available for parties from 20 up to 200 Please feel free to call in and view We also offer excellent conference and wedding facilities
Christmas brochures available
Now booking for Christmas party theme nights in December
Please contact reception for information or booking or visit
Congratulations to Eileen and Bill Powell on the births of their third and fourth great grand-children. Niamh was born on June 20th a sister to Caelan and their cousin Harry arrived on 14th August, a brother for Elliott. Eileen and Bill have nine grandchildren and welcome the new additions to their family.
Tel: 01922 631750 Mob: 07831 600829
Mob: 07785 333636
5 fishing lakes in glorious countryside Now selling a complete range of baits
Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk
Hello to everyone from all at Meriden School.
School is gearing up, planning events for the children for the end of the year.
Some of the children will be on the Green for Carols around the Tree on 30th November.
I’m sure many of you will come along too. We look forward to seeing you all at our PTA Christmas Fair on Saturday 1st December.
We hope to welcome our village friends to a special Carol Service on Thursday December 20th at 10am, to join in singing some favourite Carols and enjoy a cup of tea afterwards. We will be having all the usual events that make up a Primary School Christmas- the whole school visit to the Pantomime, our Christmas school post, children’s Christmas lunch and parties. Our Junior Choir will take part in a big concert at Birmingham Town Hall on 3rd Dec as part of a massed choir- not to be missed!
Charity
We will be supporting the Rotary Club Shoe Box Appeal – filling them with small presents to make a disadvantaged child’s Christmas a happier one.
On Children in Need day (16th November) the children are invited to ‘Do Something Different’ by dressing up as a grown-up and making a contribution to the charity.
We have decided our major charity of the year will be Acorns Children’s Hospice, and during the spring Charity Week will be a chance to raise money for them.
“Inspire” Workshops
We are happy to continue to welcome parents in to work with their children in our special “Inspire” Workshops – every class takes it in turn to host one. It is a fantastic chance to spend time in school together doing a useful activity to help the children’s learning.
New Classroom
I’m sure you will have seen the building site on the playground – it is very exciting watching the walls for our new classroom rise from the ground. We are looking forward to having Nursery part of the main school building! Once Nursery children are in the school work will begin to make part of our shared building with Beechwood Childcare into the Children’s Centre.
Eco-School Award
Thanks to the hard work of the children, the School Council and Mr Jennings, we have achieved EcoSchool status. This recognises our energy saving and recycling initiatives – well done to all!
May I take the opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Yours sincerely
Jacky Smith Headteacher
Heart of England School 50th Anniversary Celebrations
250 former students, 43 former teachers, 3 deputy Head teachers and 4 Head teachers were amongst the guests at the glittering anniversary reunion. Visitors travelled from across the country and as far away as France and Australia to take advantage of a guided tour, speeches and cabaret provided by former students. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the reunion buffet where former school friends and sweethearts met again for the first time in many years and had an opportunity to trade memories and stories spanning the generations. Mr Edgar Richards, the first headmaster, gave a moving account of his time at Heart of England before wishing the school even greater success for the next 50 years.
Several letters of thanks were received after the celebrations:
“It was lovely to see everyone talking about the school with such pride-clearly well deserved. We had a super time and were made to feel very welcome – our thanks again to everyone involved”
“Please give heartiest congratulations to the organising committee and to all who took part. It was a wonderful evening in all respects.”
I am in awe of the accomplishments of the Heart of England Business and Enterprise school. The Acorn to Oak emblem could not have been more appropriate.”
“It was outstanding in every way and gave such enjoyment to all present. It was a privilege being on the staff close to the beginning of what is now a superb place of learning.”
Mr Edgar Richards aged 91 and Miss Mary Schofield
ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS
Rector Rev Michael Dawkins Tel 01676 522 719
The Rectory The Green Meriden
CV7 7LN
Church Wardens Marian Theobald Tel 01676 523 475 Linda Barnett Tel 01676 523 277
Christmas lingers in our culture – though the message is lost and the belief is gone. We are still rich enough to avoid disaster – though there may be some hesitancy to let go of belief and hope altogether. As long as we are on the charity-giving side we are OK. It will never happen to us. The strident voices of the ‘God deny-ers’ and the ‘religion damn-ers’ crowd out our thinking. Great if they challenge what is currently evil, but they don’t, and they are not dealing with the fundamental problem of evil, they are funking it. They are merely witch hunting, and that is very irrational.
But it is irksome to be preached at by a vicar. It is like junk mail being pushed through the letterbox of a mind, which doesn’t want the clutter. I wonder what stage we are at in our culture. If likened to a gestation period is it to be a long one? Are we at the beginning of it, somewhere in the middle or at the end? Is it morning sickness we are feeling or birth pangs? I suppose most of us are just grumblers and the older we get the better we become at disillusion! But do we even have time to bother? Of course not, people never have, the first Christmas shows that. It was totally disorganised – government arrogance, military bullying, taxes and cruelty, travel and exhaustion, darkness and anxiety, and a baby born into poverty. It was the human condition. Shall I say ‘full stop’, no fantasizing? Yes. But what if it was something from heaven? What if the human soul can receive something from heaven?
After a pause … let me remind you that St. Laurence church building is closed for the time being for major roof repairs. The Methodists have very kindly welcomed us to their services including the Christmas ones. Do venture out this Christmas time – their church building is very much warmer than ours!
Michael Dawkins
Angela Southwick nee Jacques 1951-2007
Angie was born in Stratford into a family with one brother and two sisters. Their father died when they were very young leaving their mother with four children under the age of six. This meant a lot of work for her so the children had to grow up very quickly.
Angie met John when they were both working for Geoffrey Parker Bourne Solicitors and they were married in 1976. For a time they lived in Warwick, but when Angie secured a position of Manager of The Firs they moved to Meriden in 1985. John, who was beginning to have health problems, also worked part time for Jephsons, as well as hiring a mini coach to take the residents for holidays. In addition to her duties for the residents Angie, until recently, also tended the gardens and mowed the extensive lawns.
They made many friends in Meriden, mostly based around the Queen’s Head where John played the keyboard and sang. Sadly John died just after Christmas 2000 at the age of 47. After that her dogs were everything to her. Walking them gave her plenty of exercise, especially as they had to be walked separately. Tragically Angie, like John died at the young age of 56. Her sudden death has been a great shock to all, not least the residents at the Firs. We shall miss her loving concern for everyone’s welfare and her quiet efficiency in dealing with our problems.
We give thanks that she has entered her rest beside John in such an easy way but regret the loss of a good warden, a good friend and part of the family, someone still in the midst of life. Merle Dawson
PART TIME CLEANER REQUIRED FOR MERIDEN
HOUSEKEEPER/ CLEANER
Required for prestigious headquarters at Meriden Hall from 7.30am to 1.30pm Monday to Friday
The role will include some housekeeping duties
Please apply in writing to Sue Wilcox, Director Pertemps Investments Ltd Meriden Hall, Meriden CV7 7PT
On behalf of the Cricket Club I would like to thank all those who have contributed in making this season so successful. Barkers Butts have very kindly agreed to let us use their ground as our home ground, which is great news. We had a well supported six-a-side competition there in August, which we won. On August bank holiday Sunday we held a FunDay for the village and raised an amazing £900.00, which was divided equally between Cancer Research, Acorns and the Cricket Club. A big thank you to all of you who helped to make it so successful, and we hope you will be as generous if not more so next year and congratulations to the King’s Knights, and Roped In (men’s and ladies 2007 tug o’ war champions). The cricketers enjoyed going on tour to Westward Ho in September, didn’t do too well as far as the cricket was concerned but that didn’t matter, they got to go to the seaside! I would like to thank the following, Ace Garage, Exotic Thai, Moor Farm Stables, Paul Ryan, Richard Tidsdale of Walsall FC and Turmeric Gold for their generous prizes for the Cricket Club Ball. The Heart of England Social Club and the Queen’s Head for their continuing support and a special thanks to Rick and Pat Wise for the fantastic quizzes they present for us at the Queen’s Head. If you would like to be involved in helping us make Meriden C.C. a successful club for the village please contact
Mike Gallagher 01676 521085
Meriden Meriden Cricket Club Cricket Club Cricket Cricket
Minister Jenny Dyer BA MTh
Tel 01676 533737
Phone to arrange Marriages, Baptisms and Funerals
Services:
Sunday morning 10.30am (Junior Church & crèche for children)
Sunday evening 6.30pm 3rd Sunday in month only
I know that the congregation of St Laurence's are eager to see scaffolding go up and work start on the roof of their ancient and beautiful church. Looking after a building that is an historic monument as well as a place of worship must be such a responsibility. Meanwhile, we are delighted that, while their church is closed, they are joining us for worship, in our smaller, newer, building opposite the duck pond. It is a delight to have our congregation swelled to greater numbers, and to find ourselves doing more together. In our planning, it is becoming difficult to work out which services are "Methodist", which are "St Laurence's" and which we are doing together. And the answer of course is that it doesn't matter; they all belong to God, as do both the buildings, and we ourselves.
Of course, it is not always easy to worship when the services are different from what you are used to, but I hope the people of St Laurence's will feel welcome among us. And I hope that our working and worshipping together are going to establish ties that will never be undone. We are, after all, all part of the one people of God.
This Christmas, our services will be conducted together, in the name of both our churches, and the details are below Do join us as together we celebrate the birth of our one Lord.
Rev. Jenny Dyer Meriden Methodist Church
Christmas Celebrations Advent
Sunday 2nd December 10.30am TOY SERVICE led by John Horsler. Donations of new or good second hand toys will be distributed to needy families & children through the Coventry City Mission
Monday 10th December 6.00pm Meriden School Christingle Service
Thursday 13th December 7.00pm Church’s Christmas Party – Entertainment - talk by David Howe titled “BA! Humbug!!”
Sunday 23rd December 4.00pm Carol service with tea / coffee & mince pies
Monday 24th December 11.30pm Christmas Eve Midnight Communion. Service of carols & Holy Communion led by Rev Dr. Stuart Jennings (Free church Chaplain of Warwick & Coventry University)
Christmas Day Tuesday 25th December 10.00am Family Service led by Peter Wright & Ann Bayliss
Sunday 13th January 10.30am Covenant Service followed by lunch at Strawberry Bank Hotel
February 13th 7.00pm Supper Club, speaker Mr David Kershaw “Needs of all young people”
Friends in Retirement
We are still thriving in Balsall Common with many members from Meriden. Activities include Art, Bowls, Bridge, Rambling, Ambling, Patchwork and monthly coffee mornings. Unfortunately due to lack of support the Tai Chi has been discontinued. The new social group has arranged a visit to Aladdin at the Belgrade Theatre Coventry on January 2 nd Please contact Frank Byrne for details on 02476 713662
The Coffee mornings have a new venue – The Jubilee Centre (the old Balsall Common Library) Friday December14 th, Friday January 18 th , Friday February 15 th from 10.00am- 12 noon
New members are always made very welcome please ring 01676 532537 for more information
The Farm Shop Shop
Berkswell Traditional Farmstead Meats Farmstead
Larges Farm Back Lane Meriden
Larges Farm Back Lane Meriden
Larges Back Larges Back
Tel & fax 01676 522409
Tel & fax 01676 522409 & 01676 & 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
• Famous Berkswell Ewes Milk Cheese
• Traditional pork with real crackling
• Real home cured bacon
Warwickshire’s only accredited traditional breeds butcher
Listed as one of Rick Stein’s “Food Heroes”
Have a truly Traditional Christmas with Phil Tuckey “The Country Butcher” X’mas opening hours
– 2.00pm Re-open Friday 28th
Monday Jan 7th Bill Davies "A Pinch of Salt"
Monday Feb 4th
Oxfam in Cambodia - Penny & Andy Hemsted
The Centre Charity Shop 01676 523050
Dear friends,
Well, how things have changed since the last publication of the Meriden Magazine. Although we said that God works in mysterious ways we didn’t expect the silver lining to be that we would re-open after the lightening strike in bigger premises. Its fantastic being able to display so much without having to put it all outside – particularly when its pouring down with rain we don’t have to dry it all off!! We have had new regular customers from Solihull, Kenilworth and Shirley for both the Charity Shop and the cream teas, which is a blessing.
Also by now you will have noticed that the original shop has been turned into a bookshop. All the wood and brackets were donated so it cost nothing to get it up and running. Kevin and Ronnie worked extremely hard doing all the shop fitting to avoid having to pay any labour charges – it’s amazing what we can do when we have to look after the pennies!!
Now that the weather is turning wintry and cold we have decided to serve home made soup and crusty bread on a Wednesday afternoon. The new time is 1.00 – 3.00 p.m. Of course you can just pop in for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat if you wish during this time.
We would like to thank everyone who helped with the re-decoration of the new premises, as we only had a few days to get everything up and ready it really was a race against time!!
Thanks to those of you who have kept us well stocked with new items so that we have the opportunity to change the stock regularly - there is always something new to see so pop in often and you won’t miss out. We would like to say a big thank you for the volume and quality of the items donated please keep up the good work.
On a practical note, although we have a washing machine at the Centre it’s very difficult to dry things in this weather so it would be very helpful if the items you send were freshly laundered – our immense gratitude to those of you who already do this!! Also if anybody has an hour to spare to do some ironing for us, either at the Centre or at home we would be extremely grateful. If this is you, then either pop in and have a chat with me (Lyn) or telephone and leave your details. Also if you have some free time and would like to help out there are numerous ways you could do this e.g. counting jigsaw pieces or doing them and then sealing them and bringing them back, cleaning small brass or silver ornaments,
At the moment we are inundated with hangers so we don’t need any more at present, we do however need large black or green bags as they are so expensive to keep buying and we are trying to keep costs to a minimum. If you send your donations in big black or green bags could you knot the tops very loosely because then we can reuse them (I have damaged the guide in my wrist and hand from trying to untie really tight knots so I just have to cut the tops off if they’re too tight!).
By the time you read this edition the auction for the beautiful dolls house may be over, if so we hope you enjoyed the lighthearted competition involved, if not then please look out for details of how things are proceeding when you come in or past the shop.
On the Ministry side of our work God has given miraculous answers to prayer, not through anything we have said or done but by His Grace he has freely given way beyond our expectation. It has been a delight to share in your lives and cares and we trust that those who have come in for prayer will continue to update us on their situations and would say to those of you who would like to have fellowship with us – be brave and take the plunge we would welcome your Company.
“ I will love you O Lord, my strength. The lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my strength, in whom I will trust. My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18 v 1-3. We look forward to seeing you soon. Kevin and Lyn Hunt.
For details of your local Rosemary Conley class Call 0121 705 7078
Wednesday 6.30 - 8.00pm Meriden School
Classes available in Solihull First class free with this voucher!
All classes include weigh-in, talk & optional exercise
www.rosemary-conley.co.uk
(membership £10 class fee £5.25)
Meriden Village Hall is available for private parties etc. Contact Valerie Martin 01676 522963 Rates are £9.00per hour (£10 from Jan)
Queen’s Head
Old road Meriden
Monday night is music night, come along and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx
3rd December Stevie Best
10th December Kate Ashby
17th December Kellie
24th December Brothers Grimm (3.30 – 6.30pm)
31st December New Year’s Eve Party Andy - male vocalist
7thJanuary Marade (to be confirmed)
14th January Keith Brett
21st January The Buskin Rambler
28th January Kellie (to be confirmed)
4th February Guy Surtees
11th February Backbeat
18th February Julie Christie
25th February TBA
Q.What do monkeys sing at Christmas? A. Jungle Bells, Jungle Bells.
Dry Cured Bacon Gammon, Honey Roast and Breadcrumbed Hams
Fresh Succulent Pork Sausages Pork pies, Cooked Meats and Faggots Free Range Eggs
Locally produced Lamb and Honey Fowlers Cheese and Berkswell Cheese
We breed and rear all the Pork we sell and we prepare and cook everything ourselves.
Opening times:Tuesday –Saturday 8.00am- 5.30pm
Main Walk
This is the fifth in a series of walks provided by the Coventry Way Association. It starts from Watery Lane Corley Moor. Cars can be parked opposite the Bull & Butcher Public House. Meriden Library now has one copy of the new version of the 21 Walks book for reference, and copies of the book for sale at £6.00 each
More information regarding the Coventry Way Association from John Green 02476 503044 Peter Page 02476 413553
1. Walk down Watery Lane from the triangle for 250m to T/R into Green Lane. At the end of this lane T/L until a large double metal gate is reached on right. X-stile at side & follow track with fc-right towards wood T/L to field corner. Thro gap into fenced path, T/R & follow path, passing stile on left, to its end. X-stile, wood right to field corner, x-stile. Keep wood right thro’ hedge gap to WMP. T/L cross-field, over f/b, fwd cross-field to x-stile & s/b onto road.
2. T/L along road to Ivy House on left, just past ruin opposite, T/ R to x-stile. Hg-left over three fields to x-stile into sunken track. T/L for a short distance & then T/R into the woods. Walk down thro’ woods to x-stile & s/b, then gradually climb two “horse jump” fields. X-stile in hedge left of wooden building, fwd hg-left to x-stile onto road (Showell Lane).
3. T/L along road & as road turns right fwd over cattle grid & along farm road. V/L where track leads to farm on right (Alspath Hall Fm). Fwd on track to pass pool on left. Shortly x-stile on right, fwd by contouring round (same level) cross-field keeping parallel to fence line on far right. X-stile, fwd fc-left go down to culvert, fwd uphill, leaving fence on left to top of rise. Downhill to ‘far left” corner. T/L over brook (culvert), thro’ k/g, T/R , hg-right, up for 200m to go thro’ k/g on right & over f/b. T/L , hg-left over 2 fields via k/gs to enter road at Harvest Hill Farm ( Route A see below).
4. T/L up Oak Lane for 45m & go thro’ k/g on right. Hg-right, pass pond on right, through k/g into farm area. Follow round to the left keeping hg/fc-left. Thro’ 2 paddocks with hg-left (3k/gs & s/b). Hg-left & after 120m thro’ k/g on left. T/R , hg-right to pass pond on right. Just past pond T/R thro’ f/g gap, T/L hg-left. Shortly thro’ k/g on left, T/L & with hg-left go downhill to bottom, bear round left to x-stile onto farm road. Cross over road & x-stile, T/L uphill, hg-left to x-stile in top corner, crossfield, barn on left to x-stile opposite. V/R to cross field, x-stile & s/b. H/R plus cross-field to go thro’ f/g in hedge. V/L crossfield to x-stile, f/b, H/L cross short corner of next field to x-stile onto road.
5. T/R along road passing junction with Clay Lane to the junction with Bridle Brook Lane / Washbrook Lane. Fwd down farm track (L.A.Swann Animal Feeds in 2007) thro’ k/g to shortly go thro’ p/g on left opposite barn. Hg-right to field corner, over brook thro’ k/g. V/R cross-field to f/b over River Sherbourne. Hg-left over small field to k/g between Holly & Ash. Crossfield towards two telegraph poles, go thro’ k/g. Hg-right to go thro’ k/g into stable yard. Fwd across yard into lane.
6. T/L , pass stables & house on left to enter field. Hg-right over next 3 fields to road. T/L down Pikers Lane for 50m, thro’ k/g on right, cross-field to go thro’ k/g. T/R , hg-right to Wall Hill Road. Thro’ k/g opposite, fwd cross-field to go thro’ k/g. Fwd cross-field keeping the incoming hedge on left. Aim for outer hedge corner to go thro’ k/g near holly bush. With wood boundary on right continue up narrowing field to go thro’ k/g at end. T/L , hg-left over four fields to reach road. T/R & shortly take left fork to Corley Moor.
7. Fwd for approx. 250m along road, thro’ second k/g on left (just past Slashpitts Farm), H/R , cross-field to go over stream & thro k/g. Fwd cross-two-fields thro’ k/gs. Enter enclosed path & go thro’ 2 k/gs & x-stile onto road. T/R & walk up road to triangle.
Route A At end of Note 3, T/L for 20m, T/L along enclosed path, thro’ k/g, V/L cross-field thro’ k/g, fwd cross-field to pick up outward corner on left. Fwd , fc-left to go thro’ k/g on left, continue along enclosed path and front garden to road. T/L along road for short distance and T/R thro’ k/g, fc-left to go thro’ k/g. With hg-left over five fields thro’ k/gs and f/gs. On reaching fc-right fwd to outward corner & continue fwd cross-field to go thro’ k/g. Cross-field to pick up hg-right & thro’ k/g onto drive (Hollyberry Hall Farm). T/R to road, T/L down road to corner, thro’ k/g, fwd cross-field to left of building, with hg-left, up & round right thro’ a series of gates to farm drive. T/L opposite farm thro’ pig. V/L cross-field to go thro’ k/g. Hg-left to go thro’ f/g, cross track to k/g (stables left), keep f/c right to go thro’ k/g onto road. T/L to join main walk at Note 7.
Music for a Winter’s Night
Saturday 12th January 2008 7.30pm
Holy Trinity Church
Beauchamp Avenue Leamington Spa
Gaynor Keeble and Friends presenting a programme of songs from opera, operetta and musical theatre
Music for a winter’s night has become a popular annual event –this year all the proceeds will be donated to the County Air Ambulance
A smile costs nothing, but gives much It enriches those who receive it Without making poorer those who give. It takes but a moment, yet The memory of it sometimes lasts forever. None is so rich or mighty that He can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it. A smile creates happiness in the home fosters goodwill in business and is the countersign of friendship It brings rest to the weary cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad and it is nature’s best antidote for trouble. Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen for it is something that is of no value to anyone until it is given away Some people are too tired to give you a smile so give them one of yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.
12daysofFitness
Treat yourself to the gift of health this Christmas
12 consecutive days of full leisure membership at the Leisure Club, passes must be activated by December 26th 2007.
Please contact the club on 01676 526107 for more details and to arrange your free tour of the facilities.
Dinner includes 6 course meal and a visit from Father Christmas
In the Broadwater
£69 per adult £19.95 per child (4 – 12 years) under 4’s free
In the Arden Suite
£62 per adult £19.95 per child (4 – 12 years) under 4’s free
Call 01676 522335 ex 608 to book www.MarriottForestofArden.co.uk
A Message from Caroline Spelman MP
One of the big issues across the borough, as well as up and down the country, is the never ending ‘garden grabbing’, an issue I have championed for many years as your Member of Parliament. Meriden has done quite well to escape the onslaught from developers seen nearby, but unless national legislation is changed to reclassify gardens, I have no doubt Meiden will be infiltrated too.
Of course I understand the need for affordable housing but rarely does building on back gardens meet this need.
I was lucky enough to be able to bring a Private Members Bill before the last session of Parliament to address the issue, but unfortunately, despite cross-party support, the Bill was ‘talked out’.
The problem arises because gardens, in planning terms, are classified as ‘Brownfield sites’ – something we usually associate with disused railways or derelict factory sites. Developers are using this inappropriate classification to maximise the value of the real estate in our area.
So, as well as ‘garden grabbing’ becoming a well known term, the words ‘domino effect’ are also becoming synonymous with Labour’s planning law, when a whole line of traditional houses are demolished, being replaced with high density, out of character accommodation. What is needed is for gardens to be correctly classified as green space, not as Brownfield as at present. Then we need to take the powers back from the unelected regional assembly to determine the number and density of housing suitable for our community. It is local people through their elected representatives who should decide that.
Date Time
Saturday 1 st December 9am –10.30am 11.am – 12noon
Location
Chelmsley Wood Library
Arden Hall Castle
Bromwich
Friday 14 th December 4.30pm – 6.00pm Meriden Village Hall
Saturday 12th January 9am – 10.30am 11am – 12noon
Friday 25 th January 4.30pm – 6.00pm
Saturday 2 nd February 9am-10.30am 11.am – 12 noon
Friday 29 th February 4.30pm – 6.00pm
Sat 8 th March 9am- 10.30am 11am – 12 noon
Chelmsley Wood Library
Arden Hall, Castle
Bromwich
Meriden Village Hall
Chelmsley Wood Library
Arden Hall Castle
Bromwich
Knowle Village Hall
Chelmsley Wood Library
Arden Hall Castle
Bromwich
& Birmingham
Rotary Club of Meriden
Lottery Funding for Katherine’s Wood
The Rotary Club of Meriden is delighted to announce that it has been awarded a Big Lottery “Breathing Spaces” award of £8750 towards a second area of tree planting of Katherine’s Wood, at Lavender Hall Park in Balsall Common. The first area of planting of nearly two acres was completed last winter, paid for by family, friends and colleagues of Katherine Courts of Balsall Common, who was tragically lost in March of last year. The trees are a variety of local native species, such as oaks, ash and holly, and this fulfils a wish Katherine made for more woodland to be planted in the area.
The Metropolitan Borough of Solihull has provided valuable advice and support for this project, which has been very kindly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Meriden. It is hoped that other local community groups may be interested in becoming involved in the project, and an area for (e.g.) memorial planting by others is being considered. Information on Katherine’s book can be viewed via the web site www.weightofwords.net
For more information contact Ian Courts: iancourts@lineone.net
Meriden Rotary Club is operating the Rotary Shoe Box scheme, we supply the boxes, you fill them, we distribute them to needy people in Eastern Europe.
For more information please contact Neville Riley, 01676 532709 e-mail neville-riley@lineone.net
Inner Wheel Club of Meriden Beetle Drive
We would like to thank everyone in Meriden who supported this evening. Despite stiff opposition from the Rugby World Cup we had a fun evening and made a profit of £150 for Acorns Hospice
Part of a world-wide service organisation, we in Meriden are a mixed bunch of professionals aged 30-70, male and female, who meet regularly for friendship, fun, and a meal. A warm welcome awaits you. Drop in on Tuesdays at The Manor Hotel 7.15 for 7.30, or call Roger Swindells 01675 481754 or Jane Budd 02476 473998 for more details: www.meridenrotary.org.uk
Macmillan Coffee Morning
A very big thank-you to everyone who supported the Macmillan coffee morning at the Centre on Alspath Road in September.
You raised £270 for Macmillan Cancer Support! Thanks to all those who attended, who brought in or sent donations. Thanks to Pat Delaney for all her help and Vicky Goodsir for her excellent Tombola. Thanks to Janet and Vicky for their help also Ann who helped in the kitchen.
Meriden Parish Council
Little Courgette Pancakes
(Serves two as a main course, four as a side dish)
8oz grated courgette
2 oz grated onion
2 oz self-raising flour
3 oz grated Cheddar cheese
2 eggs beaten
Dash of milk
Salt and pepper
Oil or butter for frying
Place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well together. Heat a large frying pan with a little milk or butter. Place heaped dessertspoons of the mixture in the pan and cook for two to three minutes until brown. Turn over and cook the other side for a further two to three minutes. Serve at once.
Thanks to Sue Fuller for this recipe.
Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA
What no Owners manual?
Any time you do any serious cleaning or straightening out in any home that’s been occupied for any length of time, one thing you’re sure to stir up is a nest of old owner’s manuals – those booklets you never bothered to look at from the last two TV sets and maybe the fridge and the electric drill and the cordless phone and the last three coffee makers (which means that you now curse your stupidity every time the power goes off for half a second and you have to try and figure out all over again how to re-program the gosh-darn thing so you can awaken gently to the aroma of fresh brewed coffee instead of being thwacked out of slumber land by the EEP! EEP! EEP! of that gol-dang alarm clock, all of which could have been avoided if you only kept that instruction book handy) and any other small appliances that might be kicking around.
In many cases, still inside the clear plastic envelope with the manual you’ll also find the postcard you were supposed to fill out, but didn’t, which would have activated your warranty, but didn’t, as was all explained to you right there in black and white, in at least three languages, which you could have read, but didn’t.
The bigger and more expensive the appliance, of course, the bigger and fancier the owner’s manual can be expected to be. When you buy a car, for instance, you feel entitled to something really nice –like a slick magazine full of fuzzy photos and purple prose about the pros (many) and cons (none) of driving your new Exceeda Splendora 500, and what a fine motor vehicle it is, and what a clever move it was on your part to buy it, and what a special person that makes you. Often this little exercise in self-esteem-boosting will come tucked into a smart leather folder.
But if those who sell us even such trifles as small electrical thingamabobs feel a responsibility to include at least a minimally useful owner’s manual, why, oh why, does the biggest purchase most of us are ever going to make come without one?
I’m talking about houses. More than that, I’m talking about neighbourhoods, since every house comes with one. Big picture, I’m talking about lifestyle, because every house comes with one of those, too.
And as someone who is only now discovering this problem, having spent the past 40 years (if you include dormitory days) as a renter, let me tell you that I’m somewhat at sea as to how to get started. The first thing I did was to buy a garden hose, which seems to me one of the most important totems of homeownerdom. It has to be a good one, mind you, because cheap ones always kink, and nobody wants that.
Then, in my continuing effort to get into the spirit of the thing, I went out and purchased a brandnew, bright-red Lawn Czar that clearly is big enough and powerful enough to mow and mulch and leaf bag just about anything from the tiniest blade of grass to a medium sized cow.
Now it would seem, I’m cooking with gas.
But am I? After I don’t have granite counter tops, I don’t have (nor do I want) hardwood floors. And I may have a couple of pretty good rooms, but I don’t have a “great room”.
I even think it’s kind of creepy – those cheepy-cheepy things that make a racket in the trees at night, and the houses that go all dark after 9 except for the bluish flicker of TV sets.
And what about the weirdo in the yellow house? And what about that pain-in-the-dupa two doors down?
I’m still learning the code, you see, I’m playing it by ear. And all because houses don’t come with owner’s manuals. There ought to be a law.
Glenn Richter, Assistant Managing Editor, Record Journal, Meriden Connecticut.
Editor’s note:
Glenn Richter has just moved house so his article is from the heart
The creepy-creepy things are cicadas and the word “dupa” is Polish and means, um, roughly “derriere”
Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Freestyle and Contemporary Principal
Sandra Clarke FIDTA M.B.B.O
Advanced Diploma (hons)
Fellowship Teaching Degree (hons)
Tel: 02476 467271
Helping to keep dance available in Meriden
Help wanted
In a previous ‘Mag’ we featured an article about Gunner Arthur Huntbach . We have received a request for more information about Gertrude, Arthur and their families? Huntbach’s, Barton’s and Hollis’s . If any of our readers can help please email
Janetrobinson_46@fsmail.net
Or contact the Meriden Mag
David Deakin Plastering Services
Interior plastering and coving work. Insurance work welcome.
The children from Meriden School have been thinking about what it takes to be a special person, in this issue of the Mag you will find some of their “recipes” and drawings
A recipe: Why I am a special person
Ingredients:
1. A spoonful of smiles, 2.100 sprinkles of fashion,
3.A mixture of fun;
4.A jug of talents
5.A dash of love and tears
6. A pot of prettiness.
Method:
1.Firstly get all your ingredients and put them in a bowl
2.Whisk them all together,
3. Sprinkle your fashion carefully making sure you put lots and lots in your mixture
4.Put your fun, talent, love, tears and prettiness into your jug
5. Heat in your microwave for 30 seconds
6. Pour into your body and seal it tightly,
7. Leave it in your freezer over night to chill.
Serve: serve your Georgia to family and friends making sure they truly enjoy it with care and affection!
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1st Meriden Scout Group
Any one who has a child aged between 6 and 10 interested in joining us, or if you are an adult who is happy to help, please contact the leaders on the numbers below.
1st Meriden Beaver Colony (ages 6-8)
Meeting Mondays 6.30pm –7.30pm Telephone Jo 522625 or Gaynor 523191
For a free quotation call 01676 523501 Mobile 07976 952004
Remembrance Day Parade 11th November 2007
The Scout Hut is currently undergoing some much needed repairs and refurbishment. This work would not be possible without the kind generosity and support of the following people. Wendy Merricks who supplied the Scout Hut with new doors. Paul Morgan from Heart of England Property Services for fitting the new doors. Paul Pugh of Pugh & Sons and Wythall Roofing Centre for the renovation work. Mr & Mrs. Papa Constantinou from Meriden Fish and Chip Shop. Councillor Will Markham.
The Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts and their Leaders would like to say a huge Thank You to you all for your support
Don’t forget the Meriden Mag now has its own web site, where you can view back issues or friends and relatives not in the area can catch up the local news. www.meridenmag.co.uk
CAMEO CAMEO
Come and Meet Each Other at the Community Centre on the 4th Friday of the month at 2.00 p.m.
We have once again had some interesting meetings. In August we had the annual meeting where we bring along our favourite poems to share with each other. There were amusing poems and thought provoking ones and it was a very enjoyable afternoon.
After such a disappointing summer we have had a beautiful dry and warm autumn, and it was fitting that at the Harvest Meeting in September Julie Wright from Garden Organics (a national charity for organic growing) based at Ryton spoke about their work. The charity was founded in 1954 by Laurence Hills as The Henry Doubleday Research Association in order to promote organic farming. They offer a free advisory service to promote good healthy practices so that pesticides are not needed. Julie showed a film illustrating their work. In Kenya they are working on promoting drought resistant trees, in Sri Lanka they are helping farmers to regrow crops after the Tsunami and in Afghanistan they encourage people to grow organic raisins for export. The proceeds from the following bring and buy sale were sent to Ryton to help with their overseas projects.
.
In October Pam and Jim Cooper talked about their once in a lifetime trip to Antarctica and the Chilean fjords. They explained the terms of the Antarctic Treaty, which, amongst other things, ensures that the Antarctic is used only for peaceful purposes and guarantees freedom of scientific research. There are strict rules governing the environment and as a result the area is pristine with penguins, seals and birds enjoying an unspoilt existence. The number of people visiting the area is strictly controlled and permits are required. Jim and Pam then put on a DVD, which showed highlights of the trip. Members were able to gain some idea of the size and number of the icebergs floating past the ship and to experience the beauty of the place without having to also experience the cold temperature!
We look forward to welcoming more friends to our meetings so if you need information or a lift please telephone:
Forthcoming Meetings: -
Ellen 522534 or Peggy 522221
14th December - Christmas Celebrations with Mike and Gill Hare
25th January - Kevin and Lyn Hunt from Heart of England Outreach (The Centre Charity Shop).
22nd February - A Speaker from Hearing Dogs for the Deaf.
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Q. Why are Christmas trees like bad knitters?
A. They both drop their needles!
Do you want someone to do all those household jobs you haven’t got time for?
THEIR NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE
In this sixth article focusing on the Officers and Men named upon the Meriden War Memorial, Paul & Melanie Lee re-feature Lance-Corporal Stanley Waterton Cook, who died during the First World War. They also feature Private Douglas Glynn Harries who died in Italy during the Second World War.
Lance-Corporal Stanley Waterton Cook , No. 9674. 9 th Battalion, The Royal Warwickshire Regiment was the son of John Cook and Sarah Harriet Cook ( nee Waterton) and was born in Darlaston Row ( the Victorian cottages opposite Meriden Green ). His father’s family were carpenters on the Aylesford Estate, whilst his mother and grandmother Harriet Waterton ran a small clothing shop in the front room. Stanley was keen to join up soon after the War began and he enlisted into The Royal Warwicks in Coventry, his destination being the Dardanelles. He was a quiet, thoughtful young man remembered by the late Basil Warmingham. On Stanley’s last leave he gave Basil, then only four, a piggyback ride. Basil was later told that Stanley had a premonition that he would not return. He died in the trenches of Gallipoli on the 28 th November 1915 from exposure. Stanley’s niece, Sheila Cooke, who provided his photograph, said he was frozen to death in the trenches, as the soldiers’ uniforms were sodden and inadequate.
The following information is taken from the 9 th Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment war diary and gives an insight into the terrible conditions endured by Lance-Corporal Cook and his battalion. The month of November basically consisted of trench occupation, advancing and digging new trenches. The troops would go out at night under the cover of darkness to advance their line by digging new trenches; this must have been tremendously hard work and many of the men suffered fatigue. On the 26 th November around 6:00pm a terrific thunderstorm led to their trenches being completely flooded, all parapets and parados (the bank of earth behind a fortification trench) were swept away, the dugouts were all filled and the men also lost much kit, being swept away, trench stores were also lost beneath the earth. It was not until almost midnight that the storm subdued. The effective strength of the Battalion on the 26 th was 18 Officers and 686 other ranks, compared to the beginning of November’s effective strength of 21 Officers and 809 other ranks. On the 27 th , following the flooding, a frost set in, it is not surprising that the officers and men who by this time were drenched were in a very bad condition and unable to dry their clothing. On the 28 th the parapets were being repaired but several of the men were in a critical condition from exposure. Lance-Corporal Cook along with two other men finally succumbed to the horrific conditions that they had endured for so long. By the end of November the effective strength was down to 14 Officers and 483 other ranks, many being admitted to hospital with frost bitten feet. Unfortunately, Stanley’s body was never recovered and he lies somewhere on the Gallipoli peninsular, and is remembered on the Basra Memorial to the Missing in Iraq.
Private Douglas Glynn Harries , No. 5115085. 2 nd Battalion, The Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment (secondary regiment The Royal Warwickshire Regiment).
Private Harries was born in Monmouthshire, the son of Thomas Glynn and Ada Elizabeth Harries of Meriden and died whilst serving with The Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire Regiment in the region of Assisi during the Second World War. Private Harries died on the 28 June 1944 and is buried in Assisi War Cemetery (section 1, row D, grave 8). Following the Allied armistice with Italy on 3 rd September the Allies invaded Italy who re-entered the war on the Allied side. Although stiff resistance was encountered, the advance through Southern Italy was swift until checked for some months at the German winter defensive position, the “Gustav Line”. The line eventually fell in May 1944 and the Allies took Rome on the 3 rd June. It is likely that Private Harries was killed as the Germans made their first attempts to stop the Allied advance north of Rome as most burials in the cemetery are from the surrounding battlefields. We visited his grave during a trip to Italy in September. Assisi War Cemetery lies below the town. Standing at his grave, the town and the Church of St Francis of Assisi are in view, a really beautiful setting, which provides a tranquil resting place for one of Meriden’s fallen sons. Many thanks to Doreen Agutter for providing the photograph and information from Stanley’s niece, Sheila Cooke. We would also like to thank The Royal Warwickshire Regimental Museum for access to the 9 th Battalion war diary.
If you have further information on the officers and men commemorated on the Meriden War Memorial, please contact either John Moorhouse or Paul & Melanie Lee via the Meriden Mag.
‘
Meriden Village War Memorial Joint Committee
Meriden Village War Memorial Joint Committee
Meriden Village War Joint Committee
Meriden Village War Joint Committee
Many would agree that one of the finest, most valued and visible features of Meriden is the War Memorial, that has stood on the main road at the foot of Berkswell Road for so many years, with the impressive figure of Jesus Christ on the Cross. I know that many visitors in particular, but others of us walking by, sometimes just stop for a moment to gaze at the memorial; and I’m sure many motorists can’t fail to notice, even in passing. And of course the annual remembrance Day Church Service traditionally ends with a gathering at the Memorial for the solemn Act of remembrance. It’s a well-known memorial, but what you may not know is that there is a Meriden Village War Memorial Joint Committee whose dedicated role is to look after it.
The Committee was formed several years ago when the Memorial was damaged and worse still, the figure of Christ stolen. Although the figure was eventually recovered, the work that was faced then by everyone involved, including the Parish Council, the Churches and those in the village with special interest in this work, for example through British Legion links, showed up the value of having a joint standing committee to collaboratively oversee, on an ongoing basis, the upkeep and maintenance of the Memorial including the site. It has continued to fulfil its given remit ever since. The committee comprises representatives of Meriden Parish Council, St Laurence Parish Church, The Meriden Methodist Church and members with a special interest in this work in the village, for example through British Legion Links.
The committee meet normally once a year in addition to any necessary activity in between. It is a good illustration of a range of stakeholders and interests in Meriden working well together for the benefit of the community as a whole. Past and present representatives of the council, the Churches and others are perhaps too many to list in this short article. I would like to at least just mention Bob Hurton and John Moorhouse who with Ralph Ledbrook have in the past undertaken voluntarily some of the practical maintenance work on the memorial that has been identified by the committee. Particular acknowledgement is also clearly due to the late Ron Owen who helped set up the committee and who was a stalwart member. It has been a privilege to serve in this way alongside members like Ron whose involvement is very fondly remembered.
The committee’s role is a permanent one and it will continue to do its best to try to ensure the war memorial is protected and kept in good condition as a sign and a place for respectful remembrance for the whole village. If you would like to know more about the work of the committee please do let me know.
Peter Wright, Secretary, Meriden War Memorial Joint Committee 01676 522414
The Road (Closure) to Remembrance The Road (Closure) to Remembrance The (Closure) The (Closure)
As you may be aware this year’s Remembrance Day saw the introduction of the Safety First Policy, an initiative between Borough Council and the Police. In, short an application had to be made for road closure and the event had to be marshalled for the first time since its inception in 1919.
Many people have contributed and we would like to acknowledge their generosity and time.
Steve Hammon , Heart of England Entertainment, for his continued contribution in making the Act of Remembrance such a moving experience.
Alec Barstow for his continued supply of electricity on Remembrance Day. Meriden Parish Council for providing hi-visibility waistcoats and Remembrance Sunday signs.
The Marshals, Ralph Ledbrook (who also cleaned the memorial and cut back vegetation and supplied additional traffic cones), Mike Gallagher (who also sourced the barriers and closure signs, courtesy of Handy Concrete and Erris Builders). Bob Hurton, Steve Wake, Ian & Sharon Tuersley and Barry Chainey. Chris Higton for providing valuable contacts and advice. Parish Councillors Will Markham & Melanie Lee (marshal) for their assistance in the assembling and positioning of the Remembrance Sunday closure signs. Julie Hall , Parish Clerk, for contacting local media to advise of road closure and promote the event . Roger and Parish Councillor Marilyn Hamilton for supplying chains and padlocks to secure the Remembrance Sunday signs. Ron Plant for supplying the tools to affix the road closure signs.
PC Pete McBride and WPC Suzie Pugh West Midlands Police for their advice, guidance and location visits.
Paul Tovey , Solihull MBC for his advice and guidance.
Mark Reed, DMN Road Services, for his kind donation of signage frames, traffic cones and sandbags.
And finally many thanks to all of those who attended to honour the fallen.
John Moorhouse Event Organiser Paul Lee Marshal Co-ordinator
WINTER FLOWERING PLANTS
There are several winter flowering plants that provide interest and scent in the winter garden. One of the most attractive is the Hamamelis or witch hazel. This small tree grows to 10-15' high with fragrant blossoms in the first weeks in February. A tolerant plant happy in partial shade to full sun. Varieties to look out for are:
H. x intermedia 'Pallida':
Perhaps the best known variety, this Hamamelis produces large, sulphuryellow blooms with a delicate, sweet scent, which seem to glow in the winter light.
Chimonanthus or wintersweet
H. x intermedia 'Diane'
This variety's sumptuous and intense red blooms are smaller than those of 'Pallida', yet still manage to brightly stand out against bare branches. The National Collection of Hamamelis can be seen at Swallow Hayes, Albrighton, Wolverhampton. Mrs Hayes the owner can be contacted on Tel 01902 372624.
Flowering from December to February. Christmas flowering Chimonanthus comes to life in the dead of winter, its bare woody stems covered with fragrant, pendent yellow flowers that are tinged with purple in the centre. As spring approaches, the fading flowers are replaced with new, young leaves that smother the once bare branches. This deciduous shrub can be treated as a specimen plant, part of a shrub border, or trained against a sunny wall.
Winter Honeysuckle Lonicera fragrantissima
The fragrance of the blooms of winter honeysuckle is usually why most people grow this large, fully hardy arching shrub. Tiny white flowers appear anytime January until the beginning of March. Birds love the red berries that appear after the blooms fade and eat them as fast as they ripen
Sweet Box Sarcococca confuse
Hellebores
Sweetly scented, pure white flowers from December to March and lustrous, dark green leaves. This winter-flowering, dense, evergreen shrub is perfect for a shady border or woodland garden. To fully appreciate the fabulous, vanilla-like fragrance plant in moist, well-drained soil close to an entrance or path. Copes well with dry shade and urban-pollution.
Hellebores produce gently nodding flowers that open as early as January and carry on until late April. The plants produce large saucer-shaped flowers and are ideal for the front of an early spring border. Ashwood Nurseries at Kingswinford, West Midlands have the National Collection and hold Hellebore weekends in February Tel 01384 401996. A visit to Ashwoods can easily be combined with one to the Hamamelis collection.
Thanks to Elaine and Brian Hitchens for this interesting article, they are members of Balsall and District Horticultural Society, which meets on the last Thursday of the month in The Village Hall Balsall Common at 7.30 for 8.00pm. Phone 01676 533315 for further details.
At the October meeting they had a talk on caring for indoor flowering plants by David Howell. He suggested that we should be careful when buying Poinsettias from local shops as they may have been moved in and out during cold weather. Chill is fatal, but they will tolerate temperatures of 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit, so gradually introduce them from a cool room for at least a week. The light factor is important and leaves will turn yellow if kept in the dark or allowed to become water logged.
Meriden Volunteers for Cancer Research
“In The Pink” evening at the Heart of England Club was very successful. A professional belly dancer, a make-up demonstration and a colour consultation entertained us. We made a profit of £800. Many thanks to those who supported us.
Our next event is the Christmas Quiz night on Friday December 14 th at the Heart of England Club. Teams should have a maximum of 6 members. Tickets are £2 each and will include wine or sherry and mince pies. Small teams can be joined with another small team on the night. Do bring your friends and enjoy our Christmas evening. If you know you are entering a team or need any other information please telephone 522160, 522986 or 0711613905.
Mary Warr & Carol Lindique
“Together we will cure Cancer”
IDYLLIC GARDENS IDYLLIC GARDENS IDYLLIC IDYLLIC
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
Established in 1968
Methodist Church Hall 113, Main Road Meriden
We offer children from 2-5 years of age a caring, stimulating environment with experiences that are full of fun with our qualified staff.
You can choose mornings, afternoons or day sessions to suit your needs. We can arrange collections from local nurseries.
Your child is entitled to 5 free sessions per week for terms after their 3rd birthday (until they attend school nursery or reception class).
We are OFSTED Registered and accredited to Pre-school Learning Alliance QA Scheme
To see how You and Your Child could benefit pay us a call on 07882705490 / 07882808821 01676 523472
VEHICLE
INTRICATE
For the VERY BEST in Aloe Vera Products. We offer a range of products where we BEGIN with 100% Stabilised Aloe Vera. Look after the inner you with our Aloe Vera Drinks, the outer you with our Personal Care products, & look great with our top quality Cosmetics & Skin Care products. All our products carry a 60-day “Satisfaction or your money back” guarantee! Call your LOCAL suppliers Gill & Spence 01676 534020
We are looking for honest, ethical & self-motivated people who are searching for a part/full time business opportunity and want to make a difference to their lives. INTERESTED? Call 01676 534020
Art Classes with Julie Hyde 01676 523357
Even though our outdoor painting sessions were a bit of a wash out this summer, the art classes would like to thank the owners of Maxstoke Castle, Walsh Hall and Elaine of Silver Trees for their hospitality in allowing us into their grounds. A special thank you comes from me, to the few artists who came along despite pouring rain or freezing winds, it was great to have your support and enthusiasm even if we had to abandon the painting session!
The classes are now full with a waiting list so if you are interested in coming along please contact Julie on 01676 523357. Keep an eye open for some of our work displayed in the library from time to time. Have a great Christmas and keep sketching!
Q.What did the bald man say when he got a comb for Christmas?
A. Thanks I’ll never part with it!
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
• 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 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 well-being. Relax and enjoy simple calming relaxation and meditation techniques.
Mondays 9.30-10.30am
Meriden Village Hall Call Jacqui on 07703 345210 …the perfect start to your day!
Meriden library
01676 522717
Open Monday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm
Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm
Now winter is here why not visit the library and choose some books for the long winter evenings. We have something for everyone, novels, sport, hobbies, travel, war stories, cookery, the list is endless and it’s all free!!
Our Age Concern computer sessions continue to be very popular. If you are over 50 and would like to take a course of lessons, please call in or telephone. We are now taking bookings for 2008. Children under 5 can enjoy stories and craft activities in the library on Monday afternoons during term time from 2.45pm – 3.15pm. Come and join in the fun.
During December we shall be offering 2 for the price of 1 on children’s videos. So 2 videos can be hired for 1 week for 75p.
If you are looking for ideas for Christmas presents, we sell National Book Tokens in £1 £5 and £10 denominations. Our Christmas stock of book token cards will arrive shortly so why not come in and take a look.
Our Coffee Mornings continue to be the last Thursday of each month and our Christmas Coffee Morning will be on 20 th December. Please join us for coffee mince pies and a chat. We look forward to seeing you
Meriden Knights Chess Club
MERIDEN LIBRARY READERS' GROUP
We have been delighted to welcome new members who have contributed to some lively evenings. Our future programme is that in December we shall be having our usual Christmas Miscellany with appropriate refreshments and mind-bending activities. January - books read and/or received over Christmas; February - Diaries and Diarists and in March, Poets and Poetry.
We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30 pm - details of the venue from Meriden Library staff. Please think about joining us - you will be most welcome.
Sue Fuller
BALSALL COMMON
BALSALL COMMON U3A celebrated its first year with ‘Founders Evening’ in the form of a social wine and cheese event for the Coordinators of the Interest Groups. Balsall Common U3A was founded in 2006 with a steering committee of Anne Santos, Peter Westlake and Peter Driffield; in April 2007 an executive committee was voted in.
The U3A group is proving to be very popular with 115 members from the villages of Meriden, Hampton in Arden, Knowle, Dorridge and Solihull and the 20 interest groups – Rambling, Music Appreciation, World Religion, Spanish, French, Creative Writing, Poetry Books, Bridge, Books, Questers, Heritage, Church Visits, Lunch Club, Strollers, Art Appreciation, Current Affairs, Mah Jong & Photography offer members a wide choice. There is no waiting list. Membership is £15 payable in April reducing by £2.50 each quarter. There is a monthly meeting on the 4 th Monday of the month at 2-00pm in The Village Hall, Station Road, Balsall Common and prospective members are always welcome. For further information phone 01676 534003 or email info@balsallcommonu3a.org
Meriden Knights have won four out of five games so far this season. They play on Tuesday evenings in the Coventry and District Chess League.
When not at home at Meriden Methodist Church, opposite the pool, they play at Whoberley, Newdigate, Nuneaton, Massey Ferguson and Warwick University, against their division three teams. We charge £1.50 per session and meet in the Dawson Lounge at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining us, if only for an odd home game, can contact us on 01676 521259. Graeme and Shirley
LARCH TREE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE
TREATMENT OF MUSCULAR AND SKELETAL PAIN, SPORTS AND PERSONAL
INJURIES
Liam Halton B.Sc (Hons) Ost.
49 Larch Tree Avenue, (Off Broad Lane), Tile Hill, COVENTRY, CV4 9FT
TEL: 024 7647 0019
blitz
Beauty Salon
Telephone 01676 521100
Men and Women welcome
Open 7 days a week
Monthly offers available
New dual treatment room
Gift vouchers available
All aspects of Beauty Therapy to include; Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Eye treatment, Facials, Caci facials and body treatments, microdermabrasion , massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology, Gel Nail Extensions, Body Wraps, Hot Stone Massage, Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun bed.
Clinics available for Restylane, Muscle relaxing injections and Teeth whitening Also the home of Blitz the Bulge slimming club!!
Ingredients: grab 1 George H, a bag full of reasoning, a glass and ½ of indulging specialness, a tablespoon of playfulness, 6 drops of talent, 1 computer with mouse and keyboard, 1 dashing of laziness and an extra smooth chair. How to make:
1. Grab your George H and slowly bit by bit add the glass and ½ of indulging, creamy specialness and mix thoroughly.
2.Sprinkle in the bag of delightful reasoning, and carefully not to bruise tablespoon of talent drip it in and stir slowly for 2 mins.
3.Add 10ml of water from the closest cold tap mix carefully, spoon-by-spoon shake in the nutritious lovely 6 drops of talent and leave to infuse for 10 mins in the fridge.
4.Add the lovely laziness and mix thoroughly. Place on comfy smooth chair attach the mouse to hands until you are taughteverythingabout computer.
Note: usually its will take 5 days to learn everything if not call this number 01676-50001-267 , or make another ingredients: grab 1 George Hodge, a bag full of a glass
I am special because I take care of Mummy James Holliday
More items from Meriden School
A Recipe for a Special Person: Ingredients:
You will need a Natalie, A pot, and a dollop of talent, bubbling water of laughter, a tablespoon of love, a pen and paper, kindness and knowledge (add as much as you want), a box of personality and a forkful of beauty.
Method:
First you will need a Natalie (this will add flavour) drop her into a pot of boiling bubbling laughter. Secondly add a dollop of talent then wait until that has dissolved. Then a sprinkle of love and mix in well until it becomes a thick paste. You can add a pen and paper and a splash of kindness. Finally pour in a bottle of knowledge and a box of beauty. When your mixture is complete put it the oven for 10 minutes then serve with a bit of custard immediately!!!!! I
R. R.J.KENNING J.KENNING J.KENNING
Painter and Decorator
All aspects of decorating undertaken
Interiors, Exteriors
Woodwork
Papering & Painting
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
BRI ASSET MANAGEMENT
PLC
BRI is an independent firm based locally in Meriden offering expert investment management for:
• Stocks and Shares
• Unit Trusts
• Peps and ISAs
• Personal Pensions
We also provide advice on planning for Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax.
Please call us for a free review of your existing investments
“Local professional Investment Management”
To find out more information, please contact Paul Cusack
BRI Asset Management plc
BRI House, Meriden Business Park, Meriden CV5 9RL Tel 01676 523550 Fax 01676 522799
Email: pjc@brigroup.co.uk
BRI Asset Management plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
Monday 11 th December18
JuneMonday £
Meriden Floral Society
Monday 10th December “Merry Christmas” Lorena
Dyer
Meetings are held in Meriden Village Hall at 7.30pm prompt
For further information
Telephone Val Miller on 01676 540380 Sandra Jones on 01676 523023
Q.What happened when the snow girl fell out with the snow boy?
A. She gave him the cold shoulder.
PILATES CLASS
MERIDEN METHODIST CHURCH HALL
Tuesday evening 6.15pm – 7.15pm Classes run in 6-week courses
1 to 1 Pilates reformer equipment at The Hampton Gym, Hampton in Arden Free trial session with this advertisement
For more details contact Jo on 07952 473526
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
Major new nature reserve on your doorstep
Fantastic news- the RSPB has acquired a brand new nature reserve in the heart of the midlands. RSPB Middleton Lakes stretches across 160 hectares of the north Warwickshire- Staffordshire border and will open to the general public in 2009.
The RSPB, Europe’s foremost nature conservation charity will be working hard to restore the former gravel quarry over the next 2 years, transforming it into a wonderful wetland spectacle. Endangered wetland birds such as Lapwing and Redshank will benefit as well as Otters and many kinds of invertebrate. This dramatic vision will be realised with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund and SITA Trust.
You can find out more in the reserve’s quarterly newsletter by contacting the team at middletonlakes@rspb.org.uk or phoning 01827 251628. Lapwing
BALANCE HEALTH AND FITNESS
Brings SHAITSU to Meriden
WHAT is Shiatsu?
An ancient form of treatment, working on the same principle as Acupuncture. The practitioner’s hands, elbows, knees and feet are used to activate changes in life energy of the person rather than needles.
WHAT CAN SHAITSU DO FOR YOU ?
It works to help the body self heal thereby strengthening and rejuvenating.
HOW DOES SHAITSU FEEL TO RECEIVE?
The experience is very individual but we believe everyone agrees that it is a pleasure to receive and deeply relaxing.
Experience for yourself this safe and deeply effective therapy in the comfort of your own home or in a wonderfully peaceful setting at our local therapy room.
For further details contact Ernie Boxall or Anne Brown on 01676 521393 or 07862 216833
Initial treatment offer, saving £5
Tips from the Cop Shop Tips from the
For any advice or literature on Crime Prevention
Phone Cheryl Tyler On 0845 113 5000
With the darker nights now upon us and Christmas fast approaching, police in Solihull would like to remind the local community to keep themselves, their homes and belongings safe.
The darker nights can provide more opportunities for a burglar to get into your home. Following the advice below can help to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime:
• Always keep the doors and windows of your home locked and secure, and certainly if you are out of the room
• Make sure all valuables are kept away from exterior doors and windows
• Ensure you keep any Christmas presents in a secure place
• Consider investing in a good quality burglar alarm
• Buy timer switches for your lights so that you can use them when you are out
• If anyone knocks on your door claiming to be an official, make sure you ask for ID, which you can verify by calling a number for the company. You should find this number independently using Yellow Pages or Directory Enquiries.
West Midlands Police in Solihull wishes you a safe and happy Christmas
DISTRACTION BURGLARIES
This is a message from West Midlands Police to make you aware of a number of distraction burglaries that have occurred across Solihull in recent weeks.
The offenders have been claiming to be from official companies, and then stealing the homeowner's property once they are inside the house. The burglars often claim to be from the Water or Gas Board, sometimes saying there has been an explosion or water leak and they need to get inside the property.
To prevent yourself from becoming a victim of this type of crime, use a security chain on your door, and only let people in who can prove their identity. Ask to see an identity card, which can be verified by you calling the company - always use a number that you have obtained through Yellow Pages or Directory Enquiries. A genuine official won't mind waiting.
For any more information please phone Solihull Police on 0845 113 5000
Need help with a with a drug problem? drug problem? drug drug What
to do: What to do: What to What to
You could talk to your GP
Or phone Welcome on 0121 678 4730
Or drop in at Welcome – 15 Larch Croft, Chelmsley Wood. Mon - Fri 10.30 – 4.30 Or phone the Drug Intervention Programme (for offenders) On 0121 788 0753
Or phone FRANK, the national helpline, On 0800 776 600
Solihull Crime & Disorder Reduction Partnership
Make A Better Life Trust (MABL) 0800 032 6317
If you need to talk to someone in confidence about Domestic Violence please call the above number. It is open 10am till 12 noon Monday to Friday (except bank holidays) We will listen We will believe
Meriden Surgery and Pharmacy News - Updated information
BALSALL COMMON & MERIDEN GROUP PRACTICE
Old School House, Main Road, Meriden CV7 7NG Tel 522252 Surgery Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00
Repeat Prescription Requests
We prefer these to be ordered using the list attached to your previous prescription.
• Post to the surgery
• Hand to the surgery
• Fax 01676 523865 to the surgery
If necessary telephone requests will be taken between 10.00am and 12.30pm & 2.00pm-4.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. Please quote your computer number.
48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN FOR ALL PRESCRIPTION REQUESTS IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ALL PATIENTS TO CHECK THAT PRESCRIPTIONS COLLECTED (EITHER FROM THE CHEMIST OR THE SURGERY) DETAIL THE MEDICATION ORIGINALLY REQUESTED. REFUNDS WILL NOT BE GIVEN BY THE PRACTICE FOR MEDICATION DISPENSED BUT NOT REQUIRED
Home Visits: If patients are too ill to attend the surgery, or are housebound and need a doctor to visit them at home please telephone the surgery BEFORE 10.00am.
Comments: If you would like to make any comments, complaints or suggestions concerning the surgery please contact Joanne Hope, Practice manager on 01676 532213 or in writing to the surgery.
Appointments Available from
MONDAY AM THURSDAY 2.00pm MONDAY PM FRIDAY 8.30am
TUESDAY AM FRIDAY 2.00pm
TUESDAY PM MONDAY 8.30am
WEDNESDAY AM MONDAY 2.00pm
WED PM CLOSED
THURSDAY AM TUESDAY 2.00pm THURSDAY PM WEDNESDAY 8.30am
FRIDAY AM THURSDAY 8.30am FRIDAY PM THURSDAY 8.30am
In an “out of hours” emergency
The Practice uses a GP co-operative Badger for emergencies outside normal surgery hours. For details on how to obtain medical help when the surgery is closed please telephone 01676 532587
PRE BOOKED APPOINTMENTS
We would like to make patients aware that appointments can be booked with doctors in advance of 48 hours. We understand that patients have commitments that require them to book appointments with us further in advance than 48 hours. We have therefore allocated a number of appointments that can be booked in advance, these are included every surgery taken by a doctor with the exception of locums. Once these appointments have been allocated the remaining will be available on the 48 hour booking rule.
Please ask at reception if you would like to book further in advance than 48 hours.
CHRISTMAS OPENING AT THE MERIDEN & BALSALL COMMON SURGERIES
Meriden Surgery
Monday 24th December 8.30am TO 1.00pm
Tuesday 25th December CLOSED
Wednesday 26th December CLOSED
Thursday 27th December 8.30am to 6.00pm
Friday 28th December 8.30am to 6.00pm
Saturday 29th December CLOSED
Sunday 30th December CLOSED
Monday 31st December 8.30am to 1.00pm
Tuesday 1st January CLOSED
Wednesday 2nd January 8.30am to 12.00
Lloyds Pharmacy The Green Meriden
Tel/ Fax 01676 522722
Monday – Friday 9.00am – 6.00pm
Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm
Sunday Closed
Christmas opening hours
Christmas Day - Closed
Boxing Day - Closed
New Years Day - Closed
Balsall Common Surgery
Monday 24th December
8.30am to 1.00pm
Tuesday 25th December CLOSED
Wednesday 26th December CLOSED
Thursday 27th December 8.30am to 12.00
Friday 28th December 8.30am to 6.00pm
Saturday 29th December CLOSED
Sunday 30th December CLOSED
Monday 31st December 8.30am to 1.00pm
Tuesday 1st January CLOSED
Wednesday 2nd January 8.30am to 6.00pm
Chemist’s Rota for Christmas & New Year period
The following shops will be open between 1.00 & 3.00pm only
Christmas Day
Asterwell Ltd 275 Longmore Rd, Shirley
Boxing Day
Lloyds Pharmacy 59 Yew Tree Lane, Solihull
New Year’s Day
Dovehouse Pharmacy 351 Warwick Rd, Solihull
FLU TIME AGAIN!
The Flu season is upon us and the annual vaccination campaign has already begun. Flu usually occurs most often in the winter months, usually peaking between December and March. Flu is highly contagious and is transmitted from person to person by droplets of respiratory secretions (sneezing or coughing). It enters the body through the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth or eyes.
After an incubation period of up to 4 days, there is a sudden onset of severe malaise (feeling unwell and tiredness) and exhaustion. Other symptoms of flu may include fever, chills, headache, sore throat, loss of appetite and dry cough, generalised aches and pains most commonly in the back and legs. In children, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain may also occur.
People most at risk of complications or even death from contracting the flu are recommended to have the influenza vaccine to protect them from the virus.
The pneumonia vaccine is also now recommended for all people detailed opposite. Both vaccines can safely be given at the same time.
Book your flu and pneumonia vaccine appointment and make sure you are protected this year
National Blood Service. The next session for blood Donors will be Thursday 13 th December at the Heart of England Social Club 1.30 –3.30pm & 4.30 - 7.30pm for enquiries please ring 0845 771 1711
Need your windows guttering or fascias cleaned? Sparkling UPVC frames and conservatories a speciality Also carpet cleaning and other handyman tasks
District Councillors are: District Councillors are: Councillors Councillors
Mr Ken Allsopp
Mr Ken Allsopp
Mr Mr
Mr David Bell Mr David Bell Mr Bell Mr Bell
Dr Peter Lea Dr Peter Lea Peter Lea Peter Lea
RURAL
NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE REPRESENTATIVE
WPC Sharon Williams
Tel: 0845 113 5000 ext 79286264
sharon.williams@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
We are pleased to have appointed Julie Hall as the new Clerk for Meriden Parish Council. Julie can be contacted at the address above. We would like to wish Mavis Edwards all the very best in her retirement.
Note from Mavis Edwards, retiring parish clerk. I would like to thank everyone for their support over the last eight and a half years and for the kind words, good wishes, and gifts I have received on my recent retirement. Special thanks to Margaret & Val, and all who contribute to the production and distribution of the ‘Mag’, which has been a tremendous asset to communication with residents. Wishing Julie Hall every success in her role as Clerk to Meriden Parish Council . Mavis
1) SOLIHULL IN BLOOM
Presentation Evening at Notcutts Garden Centre 18 th September was by invitation, entries reaching the final round. LOCAL WINNERS :
Notcutts Prize for Community Involvement – 2nd place - Meriden Parish Council for The Green . Thank you to Brian and Elaine Ball for their dedication to looking after the planting around the village and specifically The Green for the quality of planting and grass cutting.
Notcutts Hanging Basket Prize – 1st place - Barbara Cookes and John Douglas (Plants Lawrence Wood).
Notcutts Past winners Hanging Basket – 3rd place – Lawrence Wood.
The Solihull Times Pub/Hotel/Restaurant Frontage – 2nd place – White Lion, Hampton in Arden (Plants Lawrence Wood).
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL.
2) NEW WEBSITE - meridenparishcouncil.org.uk
Our new interactive website aims to provide you with the latest village news. Your parish council, elected in May 2007, decided on 8th August that this was one of the best communications channels that we needed to introduce for you to let us know what you think. Please use the Village Blog link! We need your views!
Julie Hall
3) OUR VILLAGE APPRAISAL IS UP AND RUNNING
On 24 September, the village hall played host to over 80 attendees at the public launch meeting. Rosie Weaver, Chair - Meriden Parish Council and Iain Roxburgh, Chair – Village Appraisal Steering Group, presented reasons for a Village Appraisal. And the key reasons were summed up as:
It is the first step in enabling local people to shape the future of our village and community It identifies the issues that people care about and actions they want to see taken It provides evidence of community support and local need to help in attracting funding for future local action
Over 30 residents volunteered their services towards the Village Appraisal. The first meeting of volunteers was on Monday 8 October at the Village Hall, which involved a workshop session to identify three things that are really good about Meriden Parish and three things that should change to make it a better place/community. Common themes emerged:
Good
• Village/rural feel and good environment
• Location at the centre of England with good access to transport facilities
• Good range of shops and amenities
• A good sense of community with many community and sporting organisations Change
• Engage young people positively in the life of the village
• Better play areas for young
• Better facilities for older people
• Community policing
• Decrease the volume and speed of traffic
The Steering Group also started to take shape when volunteers for Secretary, Information Managers, Resource Managers, IT Managers, Communications Officers and Distribution Manager were put in place. Also in attendance was David Deanshaw, a key player in Balsall Common’s Village Appraisal and he encouraged all to keep the momentum going and seek other residents’ views. Everyone’s views will help formulate the questionnaire due to be published and distributed in Spring 2008.
The momentum carried on the following week at the Heart of England Social Club. The Steering Group identified 4 key groups and organisations to target for a series of focus groups along the lines of the workshop session on 8 October. As you read this, these focus groups will be taking place. In the meantime, the Steering Group welcomes your views and you can do so by emailing the Meriden Parish Council at info@meridenparishcouncil.org.uk. You can read more about the Steering Group’s meetings on the Parish Council website and Village Blog at www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk.
We still need more volunteers……even if you only have a spare hour we could use you!
4) PLAYING FIELDS
There has been a further request for plans to be on show again in the Library for residents to be able to make comment. It is hoped that they will be available shortly.
5) RURAL NEIGHBOURHOOD – JOINT POLICE & COUNCIL SURGERIES
PC Sharon Williams representing the Police along with Susan East, Solihull Council Neighbourhood Co-ordinator will continue to attend Meriden Library on Monday mornings 10 00am- 12 00noon on the 17th December, 21 st January and 18 th February. If you have concerns or queries please come and see them.
6) PUBLIC CONVENIENCES
Disappointingly, a very limited response was received to the option appraisal held in September. Further discussions regarding alternative uses/demolition have been had with Solihull MBC and their advice is awaited.
Take part in the Meriden Parish Village Appraisal
Identify three things that are really good about Meriden Parish and three things that should change to make it a better place/community. That’s what the Village Appraisal Steering Group did at the first workshop on 8th October at the Village Hall. Now we want your views. So far, the Village Appraisal has followed the check list supplied by the Rural Community Council:
• The Parish Council decided to produce a Village Plan in August
• A public meeting was held to launch and form the Steering Group in September
• Volunteers set up the Steering Group at this public meeting
• The Steering Group applied for grants in October
• The Steering Group ask the views of organisations/communities of interest
What should the Steering Group do next?
• Ask the residents of Meriden and Millison’s Wood for their views
So, here is your opportunity to contribute to the Village Appraisal. By answering the two questions below, you will help the Steering Group formulate the Village Appraisal Questionnaire that will be delivered to all households next spring. You are kindly invited to complete the form below.
Write down 3 things that are really good about Meriden Parish
Write down 3 things that you would like to change to make it a better place/community
Meriden Library Meriden Surgery Meriden C of E Primary School The Centre Charity Shop The Spar The Queen’s Head Blitz Beauty Salon AlternativelyyoucouldcontributeyourviewsaboutthevillageonTheMeridenBlogat www.meridenparishcouncil.blogspot.com
MERIDEN PARISH COUNCIL
Tenders are invited for Contracts to be awarded for the forthcoming financial year 1 st April 2008 - 31 st March 2009.
If you are interested in tendering for any of the following 6 Contracts please supply information to Clerk, Mrs J Hall 111 Fillongley Road, Meriden CV7 7LW by Friday 7th December 2007 marking the envelope TENDER
CONTRACT
Playing Fields
1 - April 1st 2008 - 31st March 2009
April to October. (Subject to weather conditions).
• To weekly pick litter and cut grass.
• To weekly empty bins. Between November and March
• To weekly pick litter
• To weekly empty bins.
• 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 weekly collect litter both on the green and under the fir tree on the green, cut grass and trim.
• To annually fertilize.
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 supply of summer and winter planting. Allotments - Leys Lane
Between November and March
• To cut hedge on Leys Lane, once. Fir Trees – Fillongley Road
• To weekly litter pick under the trees.
CONTRACT
Playing Fields
2 - April 1st 2008 - 31st March 2009
• Clean around Play Equipment and Buildings/Field at Maxstoke Lane weekly. Monthly Rate
CONTRACT 3 - April 1st 2008 - 31st March 2009
Bus Shelters .
• To clear litter and sweep weekly. Monthly Rate
• To remove any graffiti weekly.
• Notify Clerk of any problems with Shelters.
CONTRACT 4 - April 1st 2008 - 31st March 2009
Bus Shelters
• To repair Bus Shelters (10) and paint, as and when requested (Excluding materials). Rate / hour
CONTRACT 5 - April 1st 2008 - 31st March 2009.
Benches and Notice boards
• To maintain and treat benches (20) and notice boards (5). Rate / hour
CONTRACT 6 - April 1st 2008 - 31st March 2009.
Public Conveniences, Main Road
• To unlock, lock, inspect and clean daily. Monthly Rate 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.
A Riot in Meriden
He knew what he would do. He must appeal to the Queen herself, ‘to her most excellent Majesty...’as her ‘humble, true, obedient subject’, before he became the laughing stock of the village and totally lost face before these rogues and vagabonds. Hadn’t his manservant Edward Starkey whispered what they were saying in the village inns and alehouses: The Bulls Head, The Bell, Falcon, Cock and Red Lion. That wench Katherine, Crowe’s niece was spreading it abroad that when she took her uncle some repast into the field that day, Crowe had said, ‘Stay a while and you shall see good sport about carrying away Foster’s corn,’ while Elizabeth Taylor a small holder’s wife was heard to boast how given a chance she too would have punched him. But as soon as the villagers were questioned they refused to co-operate saying they did not know who was responsible, there being many strangers on the roads working for a day or so and then moving on. John Crowe will not get away without punishment he mused. This was but one stage in a long-standing quarrel. Crowe wanted status to mirror his wealth and it was rumoured when he was away from home, he even dared to style himself ’gent’.
In the 1570’s Meriden villagers knew their place or they might end up in the stocks or worse. They were expected to respect their social ‘betters’ like William Foster, Esq. owner of Meriden Hall who had entertained the Queen on her visit here. Women were obliged to play minor roles in all matters, keeping their own counsel. Yet despite these prevailing beliefs, it seems Foster lacked the respect due to the lord of the manor.
Imagine you are standing on what was once called the Coneygree or Rabbit Warren on the edge of Meriden Heath, beyond the telephone exchange. Here though the land was poor and very dry, on ‘Plough Monday’ 2nd January 1577, Foster’s men began to plough up the land and plant a crop of rye. Suddenly a group of ‘vagabonds, brawling contentious persons’ but in fact no less than several leading villagers, tried to sabotage their efforts. Foster boasted afterwards that his peers were astounded he had tolerated it for so long but if we read between the lines, he had little alternative and had lost control of events... until he brought the aggressors before the county assize court where they were bound over to keep the peace.
On 26th August trouble started once more...
Led by John and Thomas Crowe, in contempt of court, a group of men and women ‘ diverse sundry other disobedient persons ‘according to Foster but in reality once again some of the best known villagers, began to load a wain with Foster’s corn and grass. It was at this point that 15-year-old Katherine Crowe arrived in the field with food and drink. Tipped off by his own servants, Foster told how he hurried with Starkey to the Coneygree to intervene, initially in a peaceful yet masterful manner but as he told them to stop, Thomas Crowe, ‘with a huge pitchfork did strike at Foster, and about 12 others hiding in shocks of corn pushed him face down in a hay cock so he thought he would suffocate. Bruised, in great pain and shaken from being beaten up, he was unable to determine the culprits who, to avoid suspicion, had scattered across the field giving the impression they were busily working and not involved in the assault. To save his reputation and get even he appealed to the Queen for redress in Star Chamber, a special court dealing with affrays against this ‘seditious assembly’. There were counter-accusations naturally. Foster, as an excommunicate by the bishop of Lichfield was no fit person to bring charges! The Crowes pleaded ‘Not Guilty’ saying Foster had attacked them while engaged in their lawful work for the Earl of Derby whose steward or local representative John Crowe was.
Doreen Agutter
Barking Solutions
Do you need?
• Basic Web design
• Flyer Drops
• Mail –Outs
• Logo Design • Leaflets • Banners
Tile Hill Lane, Coventry
Home Computer Repairs, Upgrading & Problem Solving
Telephone 024 7667 4952
Telephone 024 4952
Independent personal attention
Internet & e-mail, troubleshooting & tuition
‘Meriden Mag’ would like to thank Peter for his help with recent computer problems and are pleased to recommend him to our readers
Samantha Faulkner ABRSM
Associated Boards Royal School of Music
Teaching Diploma
Piano Flute and Music theory
33 Manhattan Way
Bannerbrook Park
Coventry CV4 7GE 02476 467331 07704 553808
Heart of England
Property Maintenance
Plumbing
Carpentry
General Maintenance
Painting & Decorating
Contact Paul Morgan on 01676 542745 07917 692948 mobile
EXOTIC THAI
DEE HAS MOVED TO QUEENS HEAD PUB OLD ROAD
MERIDEN
Exotic Thai cuisine cooked in the traditional Thai Way
OPEN 5 days a week Tuesday to Saturday
Food can be ordered between the following times:
Tuesday – Thursday 7.00pm till 10.00pm (closing)
Friday – Saturday 7.00pm till 10.30pm (closing)
Book in advance to avoid disappointment 01676 523740 (6.00pm till 9.30pm)
The management reserves the right of admission
Meriden Tree of Thought 2007
Our third special Village Tree is, as ever, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Once again, we will have 1,600 lights on a 28-foot tree.
The purchase of this is only made possible through the outstanding generosity of local businesses and other organisations. At the time of writing (27 th October), these are: -Cassidy Developments, De Mulder Enterprises, Groundwork Cov&Warks, Lord and Lady Guernsey, N.E. Hawthorne and Son, Pertemps, Rockwell and The Strawberry Bank Hotel.
Support is even coming from as far away as London. This is from Lothbury Lodge through the good offices of Gary Olsen (Meriden Tea Rooms).
I am hugely encouraged by the fact that so many of you wish to dedicate a light to a friend or loved one and, at the same time, know you are helping to provide vital support to many local people who are at what is, believe me, an unthinkable stage of their lives.
The work done by the Macmillan Nurses is purely and simply, priceless!
The forms will be available from: - Meriden Tea Rooms, Spar Shop, Blitz (Millison’s Wood), Lloyd’s Chemist, Corley Canine Pool and Mills Newsagents (Balsall Common).
I am also receiving terrific assistance in the installation of the tree from Clive Jones, Steve’s Industries of Dorridge and Gilbert Curry Industrial Plastics of Coventry.
To all of those mentioned I give my sincere and humble thanks. When I created the Tree, I did not anticipate or realise that so much kindness would manifest itself, albeit for such a worthwhile cause!
Memo! Do please come along to the dedication at 4.00pm on Friday 30th November on the Green .
I truly hope you will all enjoy the presence of the Tree and have the best possible Christmas and New Year.
Alan Lole
ROCKWELL SHEET SALES LTD
THE WORLD OF BUILDING PLASTICS HERE IN MERIDEN
Right here in Meriden you have available to you one of the largest ranges of Building Plastics in the U.K.
POLYCARBONATE AND P.V.C. SHEETING--INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL CLADDING-- GARAGE FLOOR TILES
Multiwall polycarbonate.
Shower boards and bathroom cladding. Multiwall 4mm. greenhouse panels
Huge range of u.P.V.C. marble and patterned planking 10mm. 4-wall with double sided protection Respatex Shower boards—alternative to tiling! 16mm. honeycomb with double sided protection Greca profile diffusing opal corrugated polycarbonate Rockwell Architectural trims . Over 40 types in Multiwall corrugated polycarbonate stock to turn your house into a stately home.
Cut to size service for multiwall polycarbonate, In 10mm,16mmor 25mm in clear ,bronze or opal
Plastic glass blocks (Polystar). Lightweight and simply click Also solid polycarbonate and acrylic (2-3days) together.
Dynotile —now you can turn your garage into a showroom! For only about £350 (single garage) or £650 (double garage) you can have an easy to lay insulated floor that will take the Freefoam Fascia and Soffits . heaviest car and look great. See www.dynotile.co.uk
These are lead free and fully u/v protected to give a very long life. A 20 year guarantee is available
Floplast Rainwater goods. Gutter and pipe in a range of (ask for details). Don’t accept inferior products. Colours. Brand leading easy to fit products, which carry the BS Kite Mark of Quality.
ROCKWELL SHEET SALES LTD. MAIN ROAD, MERIDEN, COVENTRY. CV7 7NH. TEL 01676 522 224 FAX 01676 522 985
OPEN: MON-FRI 8:30A.M.-1 P.M. AND 2-5P.M. SAT A.M. 9-12 www.rockwell-meriden.co.uk , info@rockwell-meriden.co.uk
Openingtimes
9.00-5.30
9.00-7.00
More special people from Meriden School
Recipe for a special Person
Ingredients:
A Bradley P.
A dash of team spirit.
9.00-5.30
9.00-7.00
9.00-5.30
A cherry red cricket ball weighing 5 and a half oz.
A sparkling white cricket kit cleaned, washed and ironed.
Freshly carved wickets.
A freshly cut field with boundaries.
And a little bit of experience.
Method:
1. Sprinkle the freshly cut cricket pitch into your tray and lay the boundaries around the side.
2. Carefully place the Bradley in the bowling position and put it in the oven for 20 mins at 150*.
3. Then dab the cricket ball into the hands of the Bradley.
4. Shake the white cricket kit onto your Bradley.
5. Carefully put the cricket stumps onto the end of the bowling area.
6. Throw in the pound of team spirit.
7. Cut up the experience add it and voila, here you have your Bradley playing a good game of cricket.
I am special because I play nicely with my Dad Alex Chester
Out and About this winter
The Annual Lions Festive Walk
Shustoke Reservoir
Shustoke Reservoir is owned by Severn Trent Water. It is also the home of Shustoke Sailing Club, which regularly have competitions on the larger of the two reservoirs.
The smaller reservoir is used by Shustoke Fly Fishers
There is a very pleasant walk around the large reservoir, with good parking facilities for visitors in the main car park off the B4114, Coleshill - Nuneaton Road. It would be an ideal place for a winter stroll to walk off the Christmas pudding!
The reservoir is also famous for some of the more unusual bird visitors that come into the area. The banks are covered in wild flowers in the spring, especially with Cowslips and Celandines. Water from the reservoir is pumped to Whitacre Water Works where it is treated and then piped to Nuneaton and the Coventry area. The water used to fill the reservoir comes from the River Bourne, which runs along the North of the two reservoirs. There is a pleasant walk between the River Bourne and the railway, which is accessed by leaving the main reservoir walk at the East end and going over the metal bridge.
Will be held on Sunday 30th December 10.00am Walk off your Christmas pudding with Knowle and Dorridge Lions & help raise funds for Acorn's, Meningitis Trust & Jennifer's Trust. There is choice of 4, 7, or 10 mile signposted walks from Baddesley Clinton National Trust House along country lanes, towpaths and footpaths, all passing at least one country pub! Full details online at www.KnowleandDorridgeLions.com/walk Or phone Simon Newell 07770 641027
Canal Boat
Light Parade
Sunday 9th December
Birmingham City Centre canals –The Mailbox to NIA The parade features 20 beautifully lit canal boats forming a spectacular light show along the canal and ending with a dazzling fireworks finale. Details 0121 303 3008
Aladdin
£6 and £4 (concessions)
01676 534444
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180, Station Road, Balsall Common CV7 7El
For all your dry cleaning and laundry requirements
Dry cleaning
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Shoe repairs
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Branches Throughout the Midlands Wolverhampton, Sutton Coldfield, Redditch, Castle Bromwich, Coventry, Bromsgrove and Balsall Common
Head Office and Factory - Garretts Green 0121 786 1792
Want a great night out!
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Did you know? We now sell Gloves Handbags Ties etc. Call in and see our range
Nova Dry Cleaners
4 items cleaned for £14.99 Suit counts as 2 items
10% off any item with this voucher
We are now taking bookings for Christmas Lunches and Evening meals in the The Bridge Restaurant. Price £19.95 for 3 Courses.
Whether organising a private dinner for friends, family reunion or Company Christmas Party, during December we are also organising a number of Casino Party evenings where you can try your luck on the Roulette & Blackjack tables then dance and party the night away to our Disco!!
Recommended last UK and International posting dates before Christmas (As supplied by Royal Mail)
International Airmail
7th December South and Central America, Caribbean, Africa, Middle East, Asia, Far East (except Japan), Australia and New Zealand
10th December USA, Canada, Japan and Eastern Europe
13th December Western Europe
UK last posting dates
14th December Standard parcels
17th December Second Class
20th December First Class
21st December Special Delivery Saturday guarantee
22nd December Special delivery
Meriden Post Office Last Collections
Please note that the last weekday post collection time is now 5.00pm, on Saturday it is 10.30am There is no longer a Sunday Collection There is a weekday collection at 7.00pm at Balsall Common and 7.30pm at the Bishop Street sorting office in Coventry. There is still no news on the future of Meriden Post Office. To make sure this valuable amenity stays open USE IT OR LOSE IT.
SAVE YOUR CHRISTMAS STAMPS
At this time of the year we all get lots of mail. Don’t forget to save those used stamps for Guide Dogs for the Blind . There is a collection box at Lloyds Chemist in the village. Please ensure you leave about a centimetre around each stamp when cutting them from the envelope.
Many thanks.
Reminder!! Deadline date for the spring issue
Monday 4th February 2008 contact
Val Martin 174 Main Road, Meriden 01676 522963 val.simon@virgin.net
Margaret Argyle 3 The Croft, Meriden 01676 522453 Margaret.argyle@mattargyle.com
Treasurer: Adele Fox 16 James Dawson Drive, Meriden
Deliveries: Keith & Kath Nightingale 01676 522125
Proof Reader: Claire Rose
Useful Village Contact Numbers
Winter 1st November–31st March Monday–Friday 8.00am–6.00pm Saturday&Sunday 8.00am-4.00pm
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
