Completely Bromsgrove issue 10

Issue10

June 2019

Completely

Bromsgrove

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• Relaxing lounges with open fires and views of the grounds • Five acres of landscaped grounds

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Welcome

Here we are, half-way through the year with the June issue on your doorsteps already!

In this month’s edition, a big congratulations to Bromsgrove Sporting, what a season you’ve had; great job guys! We would also like to say a huge well done to the Boars, who have won their league - another sporting success. Read all about it on pages 42 and 43.

Staying on the sporting theme, Mark Graham, Race Director of the Timberhonger 10K, talks about how the event started and where it is today. Like so many of these great events, volunteers are always key to their success. Did you know that it’s also Volunteers Month this June? So we wanted to give a big shout out to Tina Hunt, who volunteers at the Age UK shop in Church Street. Thank you to Tina and all of the other volunteers in Bromsgrove. You do such fantastic work and we should all look to do our bit where we can. Organisations and charities that are looking for volunteers, do get in touch.

With Summer now upon us, we will also be looking forward to (hopefully) many sunny days and events. One not to miss is the Hanbury Countryside Show, always a must and they

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are offering two very lucky winners the opportunity to win VIP tickets to this years’ show. You will be royally entertained and superbly fed; with a shopping village, spectacular performances in the main ring and lots of lovely animals to visit, this really is a great day out for the whole family.

And finally, but certainly by no means least, I would like take a moment to congratulate Jamie Snellus and Maria Hartnett, who got married on 15 May 2019. To find out more on this heartwarming story and to hear how the local community gathered around to help this wonderful couple have the perfect wedding, turn to page 34 and 35 to read more.

I hope you enjoy this edition and let’s hope the sun continues to shine.

Enjoy and best wishes

Michele Ford

18 34 44

Contents 6 8 10 12 16 18 20 22

Marvellous Meadows Don’t move - extend!

Gardening - Lupins Bromsgrove Flower Club Retirement money plans Age UK volunteer week Charity wing walk Historic Worcester Street

Completely

24 26 28 29 30 32 34 36

Bromsgrove Tel: 07948 086870 Email: michelebromsgrove@outlook.com

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Recipe Keeping the past alive Scarecrow Festival Blue Cross appeal Holiday fashion tips Health and wellbeing A very special wedding Bromsgrove Society

37 38 39 40 42 43 44 46

The Reflections Competition Bromsgrove School on stage Timberhonger 10k run Bromsgrove Sporting FC Sport - cricket & rugby African art exhibition The Orchestra of St John

Congratulations to last issue’s Competition winners: Kim Lennard & Paul Bullock both from Bromsgrove won Ladies Day tickets

Sales: Michele Ford Tel: 07948 086870

Design: Matt Walton Design

The contents of Completely Bromsgrove magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Completely Bromsgrove magazine.

Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Completely Bromsgrove magazine cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

The Team welcomes you to the newly refurbished New Inn. After major investment, we are happy to present to you,

your new local.

Serving fresh, home-cooked food in our lovely welcoming lounge, where our staff will waiter on you from your table.

From our Famous Mixed Grill to our lovely Sunday lunch, all our food is made with love, just for your taste buds to enjoy.

Every Sunday we have a quiz from 7pm, where we also host a “Play Your Cards Right” with cash prices to be won!

THROUGH-OUT THE WEEK WE HAVE THEMED NIGHTS Wednesday Fizz and Fish Monday is Grill Night, Pie Night, any Friday, any two any two grills and a fish dishes and a bottle of wine for £24.95, two Pies and a bottle of wine bottle of prosecco excluding our mixed grill for £24.95 and Lamb Striploin. for £29.95 Book your table today 01527759731 Visit www.thenewinnbournheath.co.uk

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Marvellous S

itting high above Hagley, Halesowen and the wider area, Penorchard Meadows are a hidden delight. They’re tucked away behind the beautiful and historic St Kenelm’s Church, Romsley. If you visit, you can appreciate the area’s orchids before you even reach our nature reserve – the road verge opposite the church is a remnant of old meadows and full of common spotted orchids. A walk through the church grounds, along a public footpath past the holy well brings you to a gate along the edge of an orchid-rich meadow.

Penorchard Meadows are one of our most northerly nature reserves and one of the largest remaining areas of semi-natural grassland in the county. England has lost an estimated 97% of meadows in the last 70 years or so and Worcestershire is a hotspot for those that remain. No ploughing has taken place at Penorchard and no artificial fertilisers have been added. This has resulted in the wondrous mix of colours provided by wildflowers such as knapweed, bird’s-foot trefoil, eyebright and common spotted orchid. Damper areas support water mint, ragged robin and lesser spearwort.

As you can imagine, all these plants support a whole range of insects, birds and mammals. There are butterflies such as small copper and marbled white and day-flying moths like cinnabar and six-spot burnet.

Linnets and green woodpeckers make their homes here and ravens and buzzards soar high above the meadows.

Looking across the conurbation from Penorchard Meadows, it’s amazing to think that you can be in such

6 Completely Bromsgrove

Meadows a wild place and yet be looking out across so many thousands of people going about their daily lives. Studies have shown that spending time in wildlife-rich places, soaking up the sights, sounds and smells makes us healthier and happier so even if you’re not able to get out to sites like Penorchard, why not try to add a bit of wild into your lives – take time out in the garden more often, head to your local greenspace to relax.

You could even sign up to our 30 Days Wild challenge to add a little wild into your life each day throughout June www.wildlifetrusts.org/30DaysWild There are several public footpaths that criss-cross these wonderful wildflower meadows. If you visit, please make sure that you stick to these as the flowers are delicate and very sensitive to feet – not only will they take a while to recover from trampling, we’d like them to remain beautiful for everyone to appreciate. The National Trust’s Clent Hills are nearby (Nimmings Wood is the nearest car park) as is the Woodland Trust’s Uffmoor Wood. www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk

Keep up to date with us:

www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk Find us on Facebook

www.facebook.com/worcestershirewildlifetrust Follow us on Twitter@WorcsWTtwitter.com/WorcsWT Watch us on YouTube www.youtube.com/c/WorcswildlifetrustUK1 Photos Eyebright: Wendy Car ter | Linnet: Karen Summers Marbled white: Dan Watts | Marbled white: Wendy Car ter Penorchard Meadows: Wendy Car ter | Small copper: Wendy Car ter Small copper: Jon Hawkins Surrey Hills Photography

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust Completely Bromsgrove

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Lupins - a true showstopper T

he lupin is one of those essential plants of the true cottage garden, towering spires of impressive pea like flowers that attract the bees to your herbaceous border and one that flowers from the end of May making them perfect for the June border. The range of colours make them so adaptable to all garden schemes covering pinks, reds, white, yellow and blues in many shades from light blue to dark.

No cottage garden is complete without a group of Lupins; they produce thick colourful blooms up to a metre high with as many as a dozen spikes to each plant.There are over 200 species of the lupin to choose from and they remain as popular today as ever and despite newer fancy plant introductions the lupin remains a fashionable plant that is regularly featured by garden designers in the RHS Chelsea flower show gardens.

Lupins are easy to grow either from seed or cuttings, seeds rarely come true to colour so it’s a bit like pot luck as to the colour that you will get, whereas a cutting will be true to the mother plant. Growing from seed will produce a biennial plant, which grows in the first year and flowers in the next, but year old plants are easy to find in garden centres if you are a bit impatient. lupins prefer a well drained soil that Is not too rich and do not take kindly to being chopped back hard after flowering. Dead head regularly unless you want to collect the seed as this will keep the plant vigorous and produce more flowers. Slugs love the emerging young growth of the lupin so use a deterrent in the early spring, but as your lupins get older the slugs and snails will find them less attractive for lunch. Aphids can also find your lupins tasty.

I am often asked why lupins fail and there are a number of reasons why they do, one being that the lupin does not live for long. They last for seven or eight years and after five or six they slowly become less vigorous. Another reason is that they simply hate being too wet over winter, keep them a little drier by placing an upturned pot over the crown during the worst of the winter to protect them, however, they do withstand the winter’s frost and cold extremely well and overwinter in all areas of the UK. Perfect for the middle or back of the border, stake the younger plants as they grow but older plants should be self supporting, they are not ideal for pots and containers but dwarf varieties are available for low growing borders. The lupin is a true showstopper and a cottage garden favourite, mainly because these splendid perennials that are generally so undemanding will put on a long and spectacular display.

Karl Strawbridge

Wagon House Gardens The Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury, B60 4BU Tel: 01527 821421

Top tips for June 1. Keep on top of weeding.

2. Dead head Roses and check for pests and diseases.

3. Pinch out side shoots on your tomatoes and feed with a liquid feed once you have fruit set.

4. Water your pots, tubs and hanging baskets daily.

5. Check the lilies for the bright red lily beetle.

10 Completely Bromsgrove

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Bromsgrove Flower Club

B

romsgrove Flower Club was established over 60 years ago. The meetings are held every third Thursday of the month at 2.15pm (except January) in All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B61 1AF.

Each month a visiting demonstrator creates beautiful arrangements and gives hints and tips on how to get the best from your flowers. After the arrangements have been raffled everyone enjoys tea and biscuits. There is also a book stall and bring and buy. Visitors and new members are most welcome. A relaxing way to spend an afternoon and make new friends - come and join us.

In April Anita Wright visited the club, the title of her demonstration was “At This Time of Year”.

Anita Wright

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Advertisement Feature

Financial planning for the 100-year life

Martin Pryor suggests ways to ensure a comfortable long retirement.

Y

our chances of reaching 100 are probably greater than you imagine. It may sound fanciful, but a 100-year lifespan is well within the bounds of probability. That could have profound implications for your retirement planning.

While the average 70-year-old man now has a 4.1% chance of reaching his 100th birthday, an average 40-year-old woman has a nearly 13.8% chance of becoming 100. And the number of people who are likely to live well into their 90s has soared.

These Office for National Statistics data are based on the entire UK population, which means that they could well be an underestimate for you. There is evidence that life expectancy is affected by levels of wealth.

There are three big issues to look out for in planning a long retirement.

Income in retirement If you retire at 65 (and do not forget that the state pension age will reach 66 by October 2020), then you could need your pension income to last for 35 years. The only way to guarantee your income for such a long period is to purchase an annuity.

However, the price you pay will reflect the potentially long payment period and current low long-term interest rates. A simple fixed annuity for a single person starting at age 65 now, with no increases, will cost about £100,000 to produce an annual pension of about £5,500.

You could take income withdrawals from your pension fund and other investments, although that would not provide a throughout-life guarantee. Investment markets are almost bound to go through several cycles throughout your retirement. So your retirement fund would need careful management to handle the potential problems caused by drawing regular payments from it in falling markets.

Inflation Taking a fixed retirement income cannot be a long-term option because of inflation. The pound has lost over two-thirds of its value over the last 35 years as measured by the RPI.

16 Completely Bromsgrove

Even if inflation drops over the next 35 years, averaging just 2% annually, today’s pound will be worth just 50p by 2054.

An inflation-proofed annuity for a single person costing £100,000 at age 65 would currently provide only a little over £3,200 a year.

Funding your retirement The minimum level of pension contributions for auto enrolment will be 8% of band earnings from 6 April 2019.Yet pension experts consider this will be nowhere near enough to fund a comfortable retirement for most people, even after allowing for a full state pension (£168.60 a week from April 2019).

There are plenty of suggestions for the appropriate level of savings to secure a comfortable retirement, but for a more accurate assessment, there is no substitute for the type of individual calculation we can offer, based on your personal circumstances.

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Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest

Feeling useful is the best pill in the world T

here are many different reasons why people give their time and get involved in volunteering. Age UK BRWF Retail Volunteer Tina Hunt has very kindly offered to share her story and experiences to raise awareness of the benefits of volunteering and to help encourage others to get involved.

Age UK BRWF currently has eight shops across North Worcestershire. As well as raising vital funds to support its work with older people across North Worcestershire, our Age UK BRWF shops are important ‘hubs’ for their local communities - but our shops couldn’t open without the fantastic commitment from our volunteers!

Tina has been regularly volunteering at Age UK BRWF’s Church Street Shop in Bromsgrove for over three years. Four years ago Tina was diagnosed with breast cancer and only two months after surgery, she had to undergo life changing bowel surgery.

Reflecting on that period Tina said: “Suddenly, a whole year had gone by, taking with it all my confidence - quickly replacing it with depression and anxiety. Pills and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy helped, but only a little. I needed people, confidence building and a sense of worth.”

Tina decided to try volunteering at Age UK BRWF’s Church Street shop in Bromsgrove.

“We all know that helping others makes us feel happy and is instrumental in giving us back our feeling of self-worth. This discovery often prevents, and sometimes helps to relieve, some of our most painful struggles - physical and mental. Older volunteers (I was 72 when I joined Age UK BRWF) often find that after a short while, they feel much younger - I certainly did! Chronically ill people may find they experience fewer symptoms and pains. This is because we’re not simply sitting at home thinking about our unhappy circumstances, but, again needing to use our bodies and our brains. Connecting with other people - customers and fellow volunteers is so rewarding, fulfilling and interesting. I still have lots to offer and feeling useful is the best ‘pill’ in the world. The old saying...’if you don’t use it you lose it’ comes to mind!”

Speaking about the Church Street shop where she regularly volunteers on a Sunday afternoon, Tina said: “The shop is staffed with lovely people, managers who seem to have been chosen

18 Completely Bromsgrove

not only for their business abilities but for their compassion and understanding of others - especially their volunteers. Volunteers are real people, from different backgrounds and with different challenges. At Age UK BRWF I am not made to feel guilty about what I can’t do – the focus is upon what ‘I can do’ and I am told that any hour I can give is gratefully appreciated”.

Over the time spent volunteering with Age UK BRWF , I have made friends with staff and some lovely ‘regulars’. I returned from holiday recently - the manager and two volunteers hugged me and welcomed me back – it felt like re-joining a family gathering! My own family live many miles away and although we do meet fairly often, the love and concern shown to me that day by the Age UK BRWF team (staff and volunteers) made me feel alive, appreciated and very happy” Summing up her volunteering experience Tina said: “Comments such as ‘we love having you here’ and ‘we appreciate what you have done today’ make me feel valued.

In the great scheme of things, I don’t think I that offer Age UK BRWF very much (four hours on one day) but I am frequently reminded that every hour that is volunteered by one person is so very necessary to the success of the charity that has, itself, so much to offer local people.

So if you can spare an hour (whether you are interested getting involved with the shops, supporting services including Information & Advice, Befriending and Foot Care, or sharing your knowledge and experiences with groups and activities such as the Computer Groups) you can make a real difference to local people by getting involved with Age UK BRWF.” Age UK BRWF would not be able to do what it does without the support and commitment of people like Tina. If Tina’s words have inspired you then please contact us on 01527 570490, email enquiries@ageukbrwf.org.uk or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/brwf/get-involved/volunteer/ to find out how you can get involved!

Advertisement Feature

So what does a CQC ‘good’ mean for a care home?

Chandler Court in Bromsgrove helps to explain.

I

f you’re looking for a care home for an older loved one, understanding the quality rating given to each home by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the care regulator for England, is key. A CQC report enables you to benchmark a home with others you’re considering.

There are four ratings that can be awarded: ‘outstanding’, ‘good’, ‘requires improvement’ or ‘inadequate’ against five aspects of service: safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

Receiving the official ‘good’ seal of approval Care UK’s Chandler Court care home in Bromsgrove has just received a ‘good’ overall rating from the CQC after its inspection and observations this April. The inspectors gave Chandler Court ‘good’ ratings for all five aspects of the service. Here are some highlights from the report.

Safe CQC rate Chandler Court as `good’ because residents are able to live safely, protected from abuse and avoidable harm, with sufficient colleague numbers to ensure their safety and well-being. Medicines are safely and effectively managed.

Effective Chandler Court is rated ‘good’: residents’ care, treatment and support promotes a good quality of life.

Residents are supported to live healthy lives by a team who have the specialist knowledge and skills required to meet individual needs. The team provide residents with timely care, access to a range of healthcare professionals and understand the importance of a nutritional, balanced diet.

Caring Caring is rated as `good’ because residents are noted to be treated with dignity and respect, kindness and compassion. The team find out how residents

want to be supported and ask them what they would like to do, encouraging them to do as much as they can for themselves - giving residents confidence and independence. Residents’ rights to privacy are also valued and respected.

Well-led Chandler Court is consistently managed and well-led, creating a culture which promotes high quality, personcentred care. Inspectors found that home manager, Joanne, and her deputies have a good understanding of the needs and preferences of residents and their relatives, as well as members of the team.

Responsive Chandler Court is rated ‘good’ for planning personalised care and meeting people’s needs and interests, giving them choice and control. Care plans are person-centred and reviewed on a monthly basis, or whenever there is a change in the persons care needs.

CQC inspectors noted that activities were planned to people’s preferences: a community bridge club had been created in response to a resident who enjoys the game, and another resident is supported with using technology to keep in contact with her nephew.

Discover this ‘good’ care home for yourself Official ratings are a valuable guide, but the best way to experience a care home is to visit it in person.

Simply drop in to tour Chandler Court or for more information call 01527 907828 or visit: www.careuk.com/chandler-court Recreation Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 8DT Completely Bromsgrove

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primrose hospice

care compassion community

Primrose’s Jo celebrates milestone birthday with charity wing walk

I

s it a bird? Is it a plane? – No, it’s Primrose Hospice’s volunteers’ manager who will be wing walking for the charity.

Jo Wright will be taking on the epic challenge to mark her 50th birthday and the five years she has worked at the hospice in St Godwald’s Road, Bromsgrove.

Jo will take to the skies on Friday, July 26 at a private airfield in Cirencester, Gloucestershire and hopes to raise £1,000.

She said: “I’ve worked at Primrose for five years and have seen first-hand how important and valuable the services on offer at Primrose Hospice are to the people who come here.

“I just thought what could I do to raise funds and, as I’ve done a parachute jump before, I wanted to do something different.

“I’m an adrenaline junkie so I’m really excited about the wing walk and just can’t wait.”

While her husband, sons and parents are planning to travel to Gloucestershire to watch the wing walk there are big plans at the hospice too.

The patients all want to see Jo’s sky high efforts so it

20 Completely Bromsgrove

is hoped her wing walk will be screened live in the Day Hospice.

Jo is known around the hospice for her stylish shoes and, while she won’t be able to wear her usual fancy heels, she plans to decorate a safer pair for the flight.

She also hopes to personalise her own boiler suit especially for the challenge.

Primrose Hospice provides care and support for life-limited people with life limiting conditions and their families but must raise £1.75million to keep these services free.

David Burrell, CEO of Primrose Hospice, said: “It’s a wonderful gesture that Jo is marking her big birthday with an adrenaline rush and raising money to support our essential services at the same time.

“It’s typical of Jo’s commitment and demonstrates her pride in being a key part of Primrose Hospice” To sponsor Jo, visit: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/jo-wrightwingwalk

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Completely Bromsgrove

21

Wonderful Worcester Street R

unning south from the High Street, Worcester Road is one of Bromsgrove’s most interesting townscapes. Originally known as Worcester Street, it has the most intact row of Victorian shops, many of which, apart from the shop fronts, have changed little in the last 120 years.

Buildings have stood along the east side of Worcester Street since medieval times. On the corner of Station Street, where Neale’s Garage now stands, was the site of the town’s oldest timber-framed building. The Merchant’s House occupied a key position in medieval Bromsgrove, looking across the green towards the church. It was later moved to the Avoncroft Museum.

Until the 1820s the land between Worcester Street, Hanover Street and the Spadesbourne Brook had been horticultural ground called the ‘Town Garden’. It belonged to John Knight of Wolverley, an ironmaster, who had owned Perry Hall (now Housman Hall) and the Cotton Mill (now Sanders Park). In December 1827 the Cotton Mill was auctioned, along with the Town Garden, which was divided into seven building plots.

Bromsgrove has never been short of pubs and Worcester Street was no exception. The Dog & Pheasant is one of the oldest public houses in the town.

It was rebuilt in the late nineteenth century and has experienced frequent renovations since. On the corner of Little Lane was the Sampson Inn and on a corner of Station Street stood the Wheatsheaf. These, alongside other public houses such as the Turks Head and the Britannia, all catered for the many nailers who used to live in the area.

All of the buildings along here have fascinating stories to tell. No. 6 Worcester Road, for example, was the

home of John Blew, one of several dyers in Bromsgrove, who served the town’s linen and cloth makers. When John died in 1819 the business was taken over by his daughters, Elizabeth and Mary Blew. Later the premises were occupied by John Garfield, a hat maker, and in the early 1900s by John Nokes & Son, furniture dealers.

Another building of note was the Regal Cinema. It was originally built as a theatre, the Playhouse, in 1910 and became a cinema in 1934. It closed in 1961, since when it has undergone various reincarnations as a bingo hall, snooker club and nightclub.

The history of Worcester Street is one of several subjects being discussed at the annual Bromsgrove Summer School from 9-11th July. Local historians Julian Hunt and Jenny Townshend will describe their research on the area, followed by an afternoon visit to some of the proper ties.

The Summer School, which is run by the Bromsgrove Society, celebrates the rich agricultural, industrial, architectural and cultural history of Bromsgrove and district. Attendees have the option to choose from six courses over three days. Other topics on offer this year are: the history of Alvechurch, the Housman Family, the Morgan Motor Company, the Civil War in Worcestershire and the Restoration of 31 High Street, Droitwich.

See www.bsoc.co.uk for further details.

Whitfields, Worcester Street

The Britannia, Worcester Street

by Mike Sharpe Regal Cinema, Worcester Street

22 Completely Bromsgrove

Roll up to WIN a meat hamper!

S

ince taking over on August 1st 2018, Michelle & Lilith Holsey-Sheppard have really left their mark on Butchers Block, Bromsgrove High Street.

“It’s hard to believe we are getting ready to celebrate our first anniversary.” says Head Butcher Michelle. “To be honest it’s been a real whirlwind for us. We didn’t have a launch event as we needed to do so much work and build the business up, so instead we are going to be celebrating our 1st anniversary in style!”

“At the start of the year we launched Lil’s Baps @ Butchers Block, selling hot food outside the shop each Saturday as part of the market to give people a chance to try our produce and it’s really taken off,” adds Business Development Manager Lilith. “So much so that we will be offering hot food on our anniversary in return for a charitable donation.”

The celebrations will take place on Saturday August 3rd with music, birthday cake and a chance for someone to win a £30 meat hamper. Tickets are £2 and all money raised from the raffles and hot food donations will be split between the local hospice and Alzheimer’s charities.

To keep up to date with all the anniversary celebrations, follow their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ButchersBlock

BBQ packs available from just £20 Come and join us for our 1st anniversary celebrations Lil’s Baps @ Butchers Block served every Saturday Great selection of freshly made produce in store Stockist of local artisan cheese and award winning Lashford Sausages Follow us: www.facebook.com/ButchersBlock

53 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AJ

Tel: 01527 570241

Spicy Vegetable Fritters with Lime Yoghurt Dip

RECIPE

U

se up any leftover veg for this recipe. I like to use squash, pepper, asparagus, new potatoes, onions and green beans but you can also try aubergine, courgettes and even canned sweetcorn if it needs bulking out a little bit. It’s ready in minutes and is completely satisfying.

Serves 2 • 250g cooked vegetables • 2 eggs, beaten • a small bunch of coriander, chopped (keep some to garnish) • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 1 tsp hot chilli sauce or chilli flakes • 4 spring onions, chopped • 2 heaped tbsp plain flour • salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2–3 tbsp olive oil For the lime yoghurt dip • 150ml natural yoghurt • grated zest and juice of 1 lime ©Alex Hollywood. Recipe taken from Cooking Tonight by Alex Hollywood (Hodder & Stoughton £25)

24 Completely Bromsgrove

Method Chop up the cooked veg and place in a mixing bowl. Add the eggs, coriander, turmeric, chilli sauce, spring onions and flour. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until you have a loose batter consistency.

Heat a little oil in a frying pan.When hot fry spoonfuls of the mixture pressing them down slightly for a couple of minutes on both sides.

Mix together the yoghurt, lime juice and zest. Season well.

Serve the fritters with a scattering of coriander leaves and the lime yoghurt. It’s as simple as that.

www.lovebritishfood.co.uk

2018

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Keeping the past alive in Bromsgrove T

he Ancient Court Leet and Court Baron of the Manor of Bromsgrove has existed since the early Middle Ages, and continues today to uphold the traditions of the past, as a source of pride for the town, and to raise money for local charities.

The Court Leet survives from the manorial system introduced into the country by William the Conqueror who commissioned the Domesday Book, completed in 1086. The Manor of Bromsgrove is recorded in Domesday Book as belonging to the Crown, and was retained for the King’s own use.

The governance of the “Royal” manor was in the hands of the Court Leet. The officers of the court were chosen by ‘most voices’ at a ‘great court and view of frankpledge’ held every autumn. A meeting of the freeholders of the manor and Tythingmen who reported on all the happenings within their ‘yield’.

The first election was for Bailiff, the chief officer of the court, followed by the Reeve. The Reeve was originally responsible for the collection of the head rents for the Lord of the Manor and it was customary for the Reeve to succeed to the office of Bailiff. Next to be elected to court were the ‘Affeerors’, who assessed the proper amount of fine to be impose on wrong doers. Other important officers were the equivalent of today’s trading standards officers. Jurymen had the roles of Ale Taster, Bread Weigher, Brook Looker, Taster of Flesh & Fish, and Searcher & Sealer of Leather. This last named appointment was necessary in Bromsgrove because Queen Elizabeth had licensed the town for

26 Completely Bromsgrove

the production of leather, a trade of importance to its prosperity. A Headborough and Constables were appointed; and a Bellman, who also acted as town crier.

Today, the Court Leet continues to hold the Great Autumn Court where the Bailiff, Reeve and officers of the Court are elected; and the Spring Court where the Jurymen, under the guidance of the Foreman of the Jury swear their pledge to the Court and Tythingmen give their presentments on their yields. Twice a year, members of the Court visit local Inns to carry out Ale Tasting and in April this year, at Avoncroft Museum, a group gathered at the Toll House for a Bread Weighing ceremony. The bread had been baked in the Toll House oven using flour milled at the Museum. Members of the Court enjoyed a tour of the working windmill on the day.

The key date in the Bromsgrove Court Leet diary is Fair Day. The Annual Court Leet Parade, reading of King John’s Royal Charter from 1199 and Street Market takes place on Saturday 22nd June 2019 celebrating 820 years of history in Bromsgrove.

Members of the Bromsgrove Court Leet and guests will process from Housman Hall to the Housman Statue in the centre of Bromsgrove High Street. The parade starts at 10.30am and concludes around 11am, with a brief stop at the The Red Lion on the High Street to taste the ale!

Traditional assizes of Ale, Bread, Meat, Leather and a report on the town’s brooks will take place. Dr Bill Tucker, the current bailiff of the Bromsgrove Court Leet will proclaim the Charter of 1199 granted to the town by King John.

All are welcome to come along and witness this centuries old tradition. The parade will be led by the Shirley Pipe band.

All Court Leet members with guests from Warwick Court Leet, Henley Court Leet and Alcester Court Leet will be in full robes and regalia. Alongside the usual Saturday market Court Leet Market Master will oversee stalls hosting local charities, crafters, producers and organisations who are encouraged to attend in traditional costumes. The event is held within the Bromsgrove Festival.

For further details see www.facebook.com/CourtLeetBromsgrove Twitter @BromsCourtLee or visit www.bromsgrovecourtleet.co.uk

by Jo Slade Completely Bromsgrove

27 

Our first Lickey End Scarecrow Festival

L

ickey End have in the past 12 months seen a spell of break ins and one resident Darren Ford decided it was time that the residents had a platform to share their concerns and a place to communicate to each other. So just over 12 months ago Darren created the Lickey End Residents Group on Facebook which now has 460 members.

With the community coming together, Darren’s wife mentioned it might be a good idea to organise an event to bring the community together, and suggested a Scarecrow Festival. It was discussed on the Facebook page and the residents unanimously agreed that this would be a great thing to get involved with. It was decided that they would hold the Festival over the May Day Bank Holiday 3rd – 6th May with the theme being Films and Books.

Darren hoped the community would respond, and he wasn’t disappointed, with 40 Scarecrows on display in gardens around the area.

It was put to the public vote via the Facebook page to decide who the winners would be with Cat In The Hat taking the coveted first place made by Amanda Cadman and Dave Barton, joint second place was Mary Poppins made by the Blagrove family and Flying Harry Potter made by the Mason-Byers family. There was also a bonus prize for the Pun Wizardry which was won by Brad and Claire Holmes.

Vicky Onions from Vicky’s Convenience Stores very kindly donated the prizes and was instrumental in the event happening. Vicky told Completely Bromsgrove that she was so very proud to see so many entrants and congratulated everyone who took part for all their efforts.

28 Completely Bromsgrove

B

lue Cross in Bromsgrove is always looking for homes for many pets looking to find love with a new family. Some have sadly come in as stray or abandoned pets or because for various reasons their owners can no longer keep them and are doing the responsible thing by bringing them to Blue Cross where pets are carefully matched with new owners to make sure they find the best possible new home for life.

All pets rehomed by the charity have been vet checked, vaccinated, neutered and microchipped before going to their new home. Each are also behaviour assessed and the Blue Cross are available for behavioural support in their new home for the rest of their lives.

Wallace is a three-year-old lurcher who was brought into Blue Cross in Bromsgrove as a stray.

He could potentially live with a calm laid back dog but no cats or small pets due to him being a sight-hound who are bred to have strong chasing instincts.

He could potentially live with quiet children as long as introductions go well at the centre.

Buddy is a one-year-old crossbreed dog. He is a bit sensitive with strangers but becomes a busy bouncy boy when he gets acquainted. He can get a bit worried when left on his own for long so would prefer company for most of the day. He could live with schoolaged children that will continue his training and enjoy a gentle play and he could potentially can live with a cat or other dog so long as introductions go well.

Abbey is a 12- year-old cat who has sadly been at the centre for several weeks now.

She can be a little shy to start with so would like a bit of space while settling into her new home. Would like to be only pet in the home and have all the attention to herself. She is also inquisitive so would like some outside space to explore.

Basil is a three-year-old domestic short haired cat. While he is a real people lover he equally likes his own space and isn’t keen on too much fuss. He would happily live with children who will give him the space and independence he needs but he would prefer to be the only pet.

For more information about rehoming a pet from Blue Cross in Bromsgrove - or to make a donation towards their care - contact the centre on 0300 777 1460, email Bromsgrove@bluecross. org.uk or drop in at Wildmoor Lane, Catshill, Bromsgrove B61 0RJ. The centre is open between 11.00am and 4.00pm every day except Wednesday.

For more information about what Blue Cross does - go to www.bluecross.org.uk Completely Bromsgrove

29

Swimwear & holiday-wear tips

B

uckle up ladies! Holiday season is nearly amongst us which means it’s time to think about this year’s holiday outfits. Everyone wants to feel fabulous on holiday but there are so many things to consider that sometimes it’s difficult to know where to start. So, we’ve done the hard bit for you…

1. Cut – When choosing the right swimwear cut think beyond whether it should be a tankini, bikini, or one piece. For those of us who like to show off our shoulders opt for a bandeau style top; a high waisted bikini bottom with a classic ruched middle helps to cover any wobbly areas. Take your time to find the right swimwear.

2. One piece - No longer the boring choice, one pieces now feature a host of cut-outs, zips, belts, knots and bang on trend

patterns. One shouldered swimsuits, bows and retro patterns have all recently made a comeback. Just know what suits your style and wear what makes you feel fabulous on your poolside deckchair whilst sipping a spritzer!

3. Mixy matchy – Pairing patterns and block colours in bikini tops and bottoms can provide an interesting but not overstated look but bear in mind that a darker bikini bottom and more interesting bikini top usually gives better balance. If you are feeling daring mismatch two patterns to express a more rule breaking nature.

4. Pop Goes the Colour – Know your colours before you go holiday shopping because your skin tone is even more vital when you are revealing more of it on the beach! Autumns will suit gorgeous rust, corals and olives whilst Springs will wow in leafy greens, flamingo pink and turquoise. Winters will look amazing in jewel colours like emerald, electric blue and magenta whilst Summers will suit beautiful muted rose, dusty pink and cornflower for example.

5. Sustainable – Sustainability is gaining incredible momentum and swimwear is no exception. More swim labels are launching sustainable and ethical swim lines than ever before as more of us prioritise sustainability as a key shopping factor.

6. Sunnies – Don’t be tempted to do an online search to scrawl through the thousands of colours, styles and patterns (and variation on quality) on offer. Understanding your face architecture is crucial to knowing what really suits you and most of us need to try lots of pairs on to see what works.You will invariably end up sending them back if you buy online.

7. Rocking your Shoes – This is the perfect time of year to add a pop of colour to your outfit through your footwear. The shops are adorned with yellow, green, leopard print and reds at the moment.

8. Arm Candy – When choosing a holiday handbag look for fabrics that fare well in hot environments, avoiding large cumbersome leather and plastic bags where possible. If you rock the boho vibe try a linen sling bag with some tassels or texture, or if you like something a bit more dramatic perhaps try a metallic look.

9. Sarongs & Hats – This is the part of a holiday outfit which provides the most scope for experimentation so be playful and colourful in your choices especially if you are wearing block colour swimwear. The options are endless. When choosing your holiday hat, remember that dark colours like black and dark blue actually absorb heat. Oversized hats were on many of the catwalks but wear a size and shape that is right for your own scale and express your personality through design and detail.

10. Beach Jewellery – Depending on whether you have a cool skin tone and suit silver tones or have a warmer skin tone and suit gold metals, the beach is no longer a jewellery free zone and can add a bit of wow factor to any pool or beachgoers outfit. Choose between chains, an anklet, earrings and toe rings but go delicately to avoid an awkward tan line.

by Jane Brook www.houseofcolour/janebrook

30 Completely Bromsgrove

Stylish fashion at affordable prices!

Create your own designer look for less!

The

Style Lounge Company

of Barnt Green

Julie and the team have created a warm and welcoming shopping experience at The Style Lounge Company located on Hewell Road in Barnt Green. New styles are added to the collection every week and you can shop at your leisure, with the team on hand to offer style advice if required. Julie also offers private shopping events and Fizz Fridays for friends to enjoy a get together and a glass or two of fizz in a wonderfully relaxed shopping atmosphere.

The Style Lounge Company has also recently introduced a treatment room with aesthetic and holistic practitioners offering treatments and pamper events.

Be sure to follow The Style Lounge Company on social media for the latest style updates and forthcoming events.

Summer Launch Event Invite

Join us for a glass of fizz at The Style Lounge Company on Thursday 20th June from 5pm for our Summer Launch event.

As Primrose Hospice is our chosen charity, all proceeds from the raffle will be donated to this great cause.

47 Hewell Road Barnt Green B45 8NL Tel: 07447660095 @thestyleloungecompany

the_stylelounge_company

Completely Bromsgrove

31

Health and Wellbeing

W

ell it is that time of the year again when that D word begins to be bandied about. Yes, you guessed it DIET for the summer and your holidays. As someone who has struggled with their weight for years and years and coming from a family that were also large it has been the bane of my life.

In 1972 I joined that famous dieting club Weight Watchers to support my mom and get down to a great weight for my wedding. Since that time, I have yoyoed with my weight and tried every diet out there including the wine diet. I lost a complete weekend but did not lose any weight and now I can’t look at a glass of white wine.

I went on the yogurt diet while at catering college and once again it has taken me years to be able to eat yogurt once again. However, and there is always a however, I have gone back to WW and I don’t normally like to push any company, but I have to say this has been the easiest time for me to lose weight in all the years that I have tried.

After attending meetings every week, I have lost the three stone I have been carrying for years and I feel back to normal, the first time since I was 18 years old.

My sister joined and she has come down to her goal weight as well without any effort.

Here in Bromsgrove you are blessed with having Maggie O’Hare as the facilitator for WW and their Flex Program. Maggie inspires, supports and helps in so many ways through humour, empathy and weight advice I feel blessed to have her as my WW guide.

The WW Flex system is so easy to follow, it allows you to get off the bus every now and again and enjoy a binge, party and it does not restrict you from having a drink during the week. It is called WW Flex for that very reason because it is flexible to your life style. Regardless of whether you are a meat eater, vegetarian or vegan it caters for everyone and having Maggie running your weekly meetings you will be enthused to do your best and come back the following week. This applies not just to you but your whole family, you can be a mutual support group!

The next great thing I want to say about WW Flex is the app you can download onto your phone. As you walk around the supermarket you can scan items you are putting into your basket to see how many points

32 Completely Bromsgrove

each portion will take out of your daily allowance. The more you track what you put into your mouth the more you can change your body shape.

Many years ago, I was extremely ill for seven years and I was given a book written by a Chinese doctor who was suffering the same way as my self and his opening words were “You are what you put into your mouth”.

I followed his diet religiously for five years and got better but I did incorporate many other things at the same time but his diet was very similar to what I have experienced with this new WW Flex.

Here’s wishing you a great summer in the clothes you wish to wear. Whether you are a female or a male WW Flex is a must if you want to lose those extra pounds for the warm weather and the beach holiday you are thinking about. For more information on any health and wellness please contact me on colette@need4change.com

by Colette Garside

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Completely Bromsgrove

33

Dreams can come true…

The wedding of Jamie Snellus & Maria Hartnett

W

hen Jamie received the devastating news that he had an inoperable, terminal brain tumour his thoughts turned to Maria his fiancé and their wish to get married.

Thanks to the generosity of the Bromsgrove Community, over £5,000 was donated to the Go Fund Me page. As word spread, many local businesses also stepped in to donate their services to make their day even more special.

The weather was perfect, which meant the service was held outside, with the wedding breakfast held in the Marque. Jamie and the Groomsmen wore suits from Moss Bros and Maria wore an Ivory Taffeta dress

by Veromia, which was donated by Tracey Tyler of Occasions by Design.

The venue was beautifully decorated with flowers and candles provided by Bal Kumar from The Raaj. Peter Lopeman and Bindi Sindhu, Royal Bindi photography, provided photography and videography, to ensure the whole day was captured for the family to enjoy for years to come. Ste Crump sang Callum Scott’s, You Are the Reason for Maria’s walk down the aisle.

34 Completely Bromsgrove

The congregation enjoyed the relaxed, beautiful surroundings at Manor Hill with the evening catering provided by Complete Catering. Chris Smith, The Best Disco, acted as MC and DJ for the day. The venue was filled with flowers, balloons, photobooth, a beautiful and very tasty wedding cake, Marvel themed cupcakes and a fully stocked Sweet Cart.

Entertainment included a magician and of course Gino Belmonte with his amazing Owls, Hawks and Falcons.

It was an amazing day that Jamie and Maria will always cherish, they are so incredibly grateful to everyone who made it possible.

With special thanks to these wonderful wedding day contributors, for making our dream day a reality Full Day and Evening Wedding Venue: Manor Hill House www.manorhillhouse.co.uk Bridesmaids Bracelets: VIP Eyewear www.vipeyewear.co.uk Brides Dress and Veil: Occasions by Design www.occasionsbydesign.co.uk Singer: Ste Crump www.facebook.com/SteCrumpMusic Evening Food: Complete Catering www.completecaterers.com Photography: Peter Lopeman www.peterlopeman.co.uk Venue Dresser: Bal Kumar www.theraaj.co.uk Videography: Bindi Sindhu www.royalbindi.co.uk Falconry Display and Ring Bearer Owl: Gino Belmonte www.facebook.com/GCB-Falconry DJ and Master of Ceremony: Chris Smith www.thebestdisco.com Necklaces and Earrings: White River Diamonds www.birmingham-jewellery-quarter.net/listing/white-river-diamonds Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Moss Bros www.moss.co.uk Hair Stylist: Toni Davidson www.facebook.com/tonidavidsonhair Sweet Cart: Bromsgrove Catering www.bromsgrovecatering.co.uk Photo Booth: Richard Atkinson Babybooth123@gmal.com

Invitations: Bromsgrove Printers www.bromsgroveprinting.co.uk Balloons: Party World partyworldbromsgrove@hotmail.com Marvel Cup Cakes: For the Sake of Cake www.facebook.com/For-the-sake-of-cake-725625097520862 Magician: Wayne Humphries www.facebook.com/WayneMagician Bridal Bouquets: Emma Louise More Cup Cakes: Felicities Fancy Cakes www.facebook.com/pg/Felicitys-fancies-cakes-636721183049617 Wedding Favours: Sarah Garrett Bridal Makeup: Sian Brecknall Wedding Rings: Kirsty Hooper Grooms Cars: Lee Ward

Completely Bromsgrove

35 

Bromsgrove Society’s 9th Summer School takes place this July

T

he Bromsgrove Summer School celebrates the rich agricultural, industrial, architectural and cultural history of Bromsgrove and district.

The event runs over three days, 9th – 11th July, and attendees may participate over one, two or all three days. Students have the option to choose between two parallel lecture streams, some of which also offer optional afternoon visits after lunch. Courses are open to both members and non-members of the Bromsgrove Society.

All courses will be held at Bromsgrove School, Worcester Road, in the newly-refurbished Learning Resources Centre (LRC). The Bromsgrove Society local history book stall will be open for the duration of the event.

Lecture Programme On Tuesday 9th July, Prof. Chris Dyer and Dr. Stephen Price will be looking at “Alvechurch - A Market Town” followed by a walk around the village in the afternoon.

In the alternate parallel session, Julian Hunt will discuss “The Housmans of Worcestershire and Gloucestershire”, exploring the extended family of poet A.E. Housman. In the afternoon students will have the opportunity to visit Housman Hall, Kidderminster Road, Bromsgrove.

On Wednesday 10th July, regular tutors Julian Hunt and Jenny Townshend will describe their research into the history of “Worcester Street, Bromsgrove”, followed by an afternoon visit to some of the old properties on Worcester Road. Also on Wednesday, motor industry enthusiast Max Hunt will look at the history of the “Morgan Motor Company”. There will be a visit to the Morgan factory in Malvern in the afternoon.

On Thursday 11th July, Julian Hunt will be talking about the “Civil War in Worcestershire” and leading a visit to

36 Completely Bromsgrove

the Commandery in Worcester. Also on Thursday, Lyn Blewitt and architect Nick Joyce will discuss the ground-breaking Restoration of 31 High Street, Droitwich. There will be a visit to this important property in the afternoon.

Registration and Timings Students can register and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea from 9.30 a.m. and lectures begin at 10.00 a.m. There is an excellent lunch at 1.00 p.m. and for those taking part in afternoon visits, departure is at 2.00 p.m. Proceedings should finish at approximately 4.00 p.m.

Tickets and Booking Four ticket types are available for each lecture. Tickets can be purchased for a single day, or for the three day course.

Bromsgrove Society members can buy tickets at a discounted price.

Single day tickets are £45 & £40 for members, three day course is £125 & £110 for members.

Price includes refreshments and lunch. Tickets can be purchased online via the Society’s website www.bsoc.co.uk or by calling event organiser Chris Nesbitt on 01527 877227.

by Jo Slade

Reflecting on the 60s music

A

fter a break of 6 years, covers band The Reflections will be once again hosting their popular charity event on Saturday 15th June at Hanbury Village Hall, 7pm until 11.45pm.

The band will be playing all the usual classics from their favourite decade, replicating the sounds from the 1960s.

There will be a hog roast, raffle and licensed bar.

This is a return to an event we did for ten continuous years with the last one in 2013. It was always a great event, which people thoroughly enjoyed, and during the ten years we raised over £25,000 for Arthritis Research

UK. Drummer Andy Ford, chose Arthritis Research UK as he has suffered with Rheumatoid Arthritis since he was 11 years old. Arthritis Research UK has now been re-branded as Versus Arthritis (www.versusarthritis. org), they provide support for people with arthritis and fund research into new treatments one of which he was fortunate enough to start about 17 years ago.

Tickets for the event are £7.50 (U16 free) and available from Andy Ford (mobile) 07970 457043 or via their Facebook page www.facebook.com/TheReflectionsCoversBand www.thereflectionsband.com

Dbi C_]UdXY^W >Ug

20th June to 21st July

2019

Pick up a brochure at Artrix, Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove Library and other community venues. Or visit our website.

Thurs 11th – Sat 13th July 2:30 & 7:30 PYT

th

th

Summer School 5 – 17 Aug th Show: 17 Aug 2:30 & 7:30

www.bromsgrovefestival.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

37

Competition

WIN hospitality tickets for the

Hanbury Countryside Show Saturday 6th July 2019 This year’s Hanbury Countryside Show is guaranteed to be a cracker! Worcestershire’s premier summer attraction for British agriculture, equine and country life returns on Saturday 6th July. As well as lots of countryside activities and exhibits for all the family to enjoy, including over 700 exhibitors and 200 trade stands, thousands of people are again anticipated to flock to the prestigious annual event which showcases all things rural.

We have a very exciting day packed full of activities and attractions including giant tortoises, dog & duck display, alpaca exhibit, equine & livestock competitions and displays, have a go fly tying/casting, have a go archery, air rifle range, craft marquee, ferret roadshow, steam & historical vehicles, showjumping, fairground rides, face painting, wildlife displays, horse shoe making competitions to name but a few! Oh and a public bar to boot!

Show Secretary, Lucy Mellor said “Preparations are progressing really well, entries are coming in thick and fast. This year’s show is promising to be the best ever so don’t miss the event of the summer!”

Tickets on sale at www.hanburyshow.co.uk In advance: Adults £10.00 (under 12’s FREE) On the gate: Adults £12.00 (under 12’s FREE) For fur ther information, please contact Lucy Mellor, show secretary, at secretary@hanburyshow.co.uk or call 07841 499660.

Hanbury Countryside Show, Park Hall Farm, Hollyfields Rd, Hanbury B96 6RD. www.hanburyshow.co.uk Follow us on facebook at Hanbury Countryside Show, twitter @ hanburyshow or instagram at hanburycountrysideshow

CELEBRATING THE VERY BEST OF BRITISH AGRICULTURE AND RURAL LIFE

SATURDAY 6th JULY 2019

B96 6RD

£10 IN ADVANCE £12 ON THE GATE BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE ER UND 12’S !

FREE

To be in with a chance of winning one of two special hospitality packages for two people to include free entry to the show, forward parking, access to the exclusive members enclosure, two course lunch and a front row seat next to the ETG Civil Engineering Main Arena, just answer the following question...

COMPETITION WIN 2 hospitality tickets for Hanbury Countryside Show Simply answer the following question “What size are the tortoises at the Show?” then fill in this form, cut out and post to: Hanbury Countryside Show Competition, 11 West Road, Bromsgrove. B60 2NG. All entries in by Monday 17th June 2019 Answer .................................................................................................................................

Name ....................................................................................................................................

Address ............................................................................................................................... .............................................................. Telephone ............................................................ e-mail ....................................................................................................................................

38 Completely Bromsgrove

hanburyshow.co.uk hanburyshow.co.uk Hanbury Countryside Show Society Ltd, Registered in England No. 07843392. Registered Charity No. 1160102

Bromsgrove pupils perform on stage O

n Tuesday 7th May, Bromsgrove School Music Department took their combined Prep and Senior Choir to compete at the Cheltenham Festival for Performing Arts in the School Choir U19 category.

The adjudicator Ula Weber thought their performance of the Lacrymosa from Mozart’s Requiem was really moving and said that their “understanding of the text really came through”. The second song they sang was the Spiritual song Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel arranged by Richard Allain. Ula Weber thought that “they had really tight rhythms, a very secure ensemble and a good blend throughout”. The adjudicator was really impressed with the performance and awarded the Choir the E L Ward Challenge Cup. James McKelvey, conductor and Director of music, said “I am absolutely blown away with the quality of this choir’s singing. They have worked in rehearsal to a very high standard and had an incredible few months singing at Hereford and Coventry Cathedrals, enjoying a win at the Barnardo’s National Choir Competition in March, and now this. The fun doesn’t stop there, with a planned tour to Austria in the Autumn. But it’s a team effort, and I must thank my colleagues for their support in shaping these young voices from an early age.”

and the adjudicator praised their ability to watch the conductor and listen well to their fellow players. She had particular compliments for the pianist and the woodwind soloists. The Orchestra returned to school having been awarded the magnificent Girl Guide trophy.

Jessica Russell, music teacher at the Prep school said “the Junior Orchestra has grown exponentially in both size and skill in the past year. The success of the two school instrumental schemes is easily seen, as the rows of viola players and clarinettists are wholly products of our school based initiatives. Attendance every week has paid off with a remarkable performance. The pupils’ dedication and ability is inspirational.”

Bromsgrove Prep School Junior Orchestra also took part in the Festival. The 73 strong orchestra consisted of pupils from Years 3-6 and filled the entire stage of the Town Hall. The pupils performed beautifully

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Timberhonger 10k -

2

019 will see the 17th running of the Timberhonger 10k, part of Bromsgrove Carnival weekend. Over the years it has grown from humble beginnings to now being a highlight of the Bromsgrove sporting calendar and has raised over £55,000 for local good causes. This year organisers have increased the race capacity and are hoping to have 700 runners taking on the challenging hilly course.

Race Director Mark Graham was involved from the start. He was a member of Bromsgrove Junior Chamber and helped organise Bromsgrove Carnival including the Carnival Procession. As a keen runner himself he saw the potential to hold a fun run as part of the Carnival weekend and raise money for local good causes. And so the Timberhonger 10k was born.

The ‘Timberhonger’ name comes from the road along which much of the race is run – Timberhonger Lane, and the small hamlet of Timberhonger that lies on the route. Few people, even local people, know of it but now the race has helped put Timberhonger on the map. In 2013, a local benefactor with personal links to Timberhonger donated two trophies to the winners of the mens and ladies races. The impressive Berewick of Timberhonger cups continue to be passed down from winner to winner each year.

Mark enthuses: “There always seems to be a special family friendly atmosphere on race day. I don’t know

40 Completely Bromsgrove

if it is the evening race time, the Carnival setting, or the summer sunshine but everyone appears to have a good time.”

In the first few years the race was on Sunday morning, a traditional time for running events. This meant most runners completed the event in the heat of the midday sun with temperatures of up to 30 degrees so the event was switched to its current Saturday evening slot and becomes the finale to the main Bromsgrove Carnival day.

The course is a challenging one and its hills have become infamous but they are very much part of the character and fun of the event, indeed the race’s logo incorporates the oak tree that runners can see when working their way up the final hill. Closed to traffic throughout, it’s a beautiful setting on picturesque country lanes, and the carnival atmosphere extends well beyond the start in Sanders Park.

running for 17 years!

Since 2006, there has also been a Children’s Challenge fun run. Children as young as two years old have the chance to race round Sanders Park and through the Timberhonger finish line to receive a special finishers medal as the Carnival crowds cheer them across the line. They even have chip timing and a race number just like the Adults’ race.

2014 two Malawi athletes used the race as a warm up for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow knocking two minutes off the course record. One of the trends the race has seen over the past 17 years is the growth of women running – In the first race only three in ten runners were female, yet organisers are delighted that in 2019 half of entrants will be women.

It is estimated that over 5,500 people from all backgrounds have run the Timberhonger with a complete range of running experience, each with their own reasons for running. Some are doing their first 10k, others are experienced club runners. In

The 2019 race will be on Saturday July 13th with brand new race medals and specially commissioned cans of Timberhonger beer for all adult finishers.

Entry is via the race website www.timberhonger10k.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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photo by David Kettle

PROMOTED!

Bromsgrove Sporting FC

photo by David Besley

Jason Cowley taking aim

Player celebrations

photo by David Kettle

A

s expected, Bromsgrove Sporting ended the season in second place in the Southern League Division One Central losing out to Peterborough Sports who deserved the championship finishing eight points ahead of their nearest rivals.

That left Sporting having to contest the play-offs to decide if they were going to get promoted. Coming second in the league gave The Rouslers home advantage in the first match, the semi-final, at the Victoria Ground on Tuesday, 1st May against Sutton Coldfield Town. 1849 spectators came along to see them take a 2 - 0 lead by half-time but shortly after the interval, Sutton with nothing to play for as the bizarre rules meant they could not get promoted, got two back and so the scoreline remained level until 90 minutes; cue for extra time. Nerves were tense but these were eased when Nathan Hayward gave Sporting the lead and despite a spirited performance the visitors failed to break the home defence.

The play-off final was held on May Bank Holiday Monday against Corby Town, the fourth meeting between the clubs this season and this encounter was no less dramatic. The visitors took the lead in the first half but goals by Richard Gregory and a brace from Jason Cowley gave Sporting the advantage despite Gregory having a penalty saved.

Corby though, scored twice and forced extra time. Kieren Westwood gained Sporting the lead again, it could have been more had Cowley not had another penalty saved, but the defence remained solid, allowing the 2943 crowd to celebrate the third successive promotion which should be to the Southern League Premier Division Central.

The awards evening was held on Friday 10th May with Jason Cowley scooping the Supporters’ vote for the second

42 Completely Bromsgrove

year whilst Nathan Hayward and Josh Quaynor were joint recipients of the manager’s award. Hayward was also the players’ choice whilst Jack Wilson won the directors’ award.

Club captain Richard Gregory took the prize for most goals whilst Quaynor added another trophy for most assists.

Main Sponsors Champion, Bumble Hole Foods and Elliott Nash gave their awards to Hayward and Wilson whilst the under 18s player of the season was Jake Marston, with finally, chairman Mike Burke gaving his special award to groundsman Rob Birch. Mike Burke also received a trophy himself from manager Brendan Kelly.

An announcement about which league Sporting will play in for the next campaign will be made in June and fixtures will appear sometime in July. Details of season tickets will be made shortly and posted on the web site, www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk Meanwhile manager Brendan Kelly has already started building his squad with winger Will Shorrock awarded a 12months contact. However star striker Jason is moving to new pastures having been offered a full-time professional contract with Football League Division Two outfit Stevenage FC. Colts and junior teams are also preparing for next season and plans are in hands to start an adult women’s team.

Anybody wanting to help out or interested in the Bromsgrove Sporting teams should email:

by Phil Baker info@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

All round displays so far this season!

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voncroft Cricket Club have started the season in style with both the First and Second XI’s delivering early successes. The First XI are still unbeaten after their first 4 games and sit in 2nd place in Division 3 of the Worcestershire League.

Steve Eastham has starred with the bat, scoring 271 in just three knocks including an entertaining 138 in the season opener at Redditch. Captain Jon Hunter has carried over his 2018 form into the early stages of this season with 16 wickets at an average of under 10 runs per wicket. Croft host Netherton in an early season top-of-the-table clash this weekend.

The Second XI have also started positively, with two wins and one defeat leaving them in the top half of Division 8.

Mark Whitehead’s 123 not out against Claverley has proved the highlight with the bat, with Anthony Pittam’s 6-17 against Eastnor the standout performance with the ball.

The Sunday team have continued to prove the perfect environment for the club’s junior stars to gain their first experience of adult cricket, fielding three under 13 players in their early season games including Fin Morris who took 2-28 from eight overs on his debut. Former captain Chris Pitt has led the way with the bat, giving the juniors a perfect example of how to build in innings in hitting 115no against Hampton in Arden.

Youth cricket is also in full swing, with early season wins for the Under 8s, 10s, 12s and 13s. There are still training places available at most age groups, including as part of the All Stars

by Paul Athey

programme for 5-8 year olds. To find out more about junior cricket, or to keep up to date with all your Croft news, please check out the club’s website at: www.avoncroftcc.co.uk

We’ve tackled this season with aplomb

T

he 2018-9 season has been a fantastic one for the “Boars” across all senior sides. The 1st XV were magnificent winning Midlands 1 West emphatically scoring over 1,000 points along the way and losing just once in the league.

The supporters down at Finstall Park have been purring at the rugby being played with the performances against the other top four sides simply breathtaking. Dudley Kingswinford were dispatched early on in the campaign 57-10, with Whitchurch then routed just before Christmas 37-0, but the icing on the cake was the magnificent performance versus Newbold in February where the solitary defeat was avenged in style with a crushing 57-0 victory. Captained by the imperious Ed Spalding, and driven forward by the power of forwards the team gelled fantastically and thoroughly deserved its promotion back to the Midland’s Premier Division.

The 2nd XV also had a very good season finishing 4th in their league but winning the league cup against the league winners in an epic final. Special praise must go to Jack Moore, Mike Mitchell and Mike Mcpherson for all the hard work and effort they put in to make the 2nd XV such a strong unit. This year lots of former mini and junior players have been part of the 2nd XV and the unity and camaraderie amongst the team has been excellent. The 3rds have also had a good season, playing in a stronger league they have performed admirably against other clubs’ 2nd XVs winning plenty of matches and finishing strongly in the league. Again a lot of hard work goes on behind the scenes with Robin “Salmon” Davies, Nathan

by David King

Williams, and Ryan Godwin in need of special mention for all their hard work.

The Vets: As you can see from the above Bromsgrove Rugby Club is a vibrant place to be both on and off the pitch so whether you fancy playing or watching get down to Finstall Park and support the Boars! www.bromsgroverfc.com Completely Bromsgrove

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Out of Africa art exhibition B romgrove’s own Lyn Sharp has always loved art and painting in many mediums, she often exhibits in local libraries, Hanbury Hall, cafes and the Artrix but this is her first solo exhibition.

Her exhibition is entitled OUT OF AFRICA, capturing the fantastic landscape, beaches, safari and beautiful African animals, in a range of mediums, acrylic, mixed media, paint on fabric, textile and needle felt.

The exhibition is colourful and vibrant, and it can be viewed at the Artrix from the 3rd June through to the 15th July.

All Lyn’s artwork is for sale at reasonable prices, with all the work being original, bar one piece which is a print from an original she has sold. She is asking visitors to spot the print, entries will go into a ballot box and she will draw out a winner, who will then receive the framed print.

44 Completely Bromsgrove

YMCA_Wychbold

Every Friday

Wychbold £1 Per Session (Term Time Only)

Youth Club

5:30pm - 7:30pm Ages 7+ Wychbold Village Hall, School road WR9 7PU. for more info contact sarah.mulhall@ymcaworcestershire.org.uk

HOLIDAY FUN REGI

Activity Camps for children aged 8* - 13

ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS at Bromsgrove Campus and FUN SPORTS DAY CAMPS at Winterfold For information and to book a place, please contact activities@bromsgrove-school.co.uk

bromsgrove-school.co.uk

Monday 1st July to Friday 23rd August

£35 per day or £160 per week including a hot lunch *Year 3 and above

01527 579679 ext 357 Completely Bromsgrove

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Orchestra of St John’s Sizzling Summer Programme

B

romsgrove’s Orchestra of St John is teaming up with like-minded local organisations to bring uplifting orchestral music to the town this summer.

In partnership with the Bromsgrove Society, Bite Sized Classic Concerts will follow on from local history walks in Catshill and Charford in July. The hour long FREE concerts will be informal and fun concerts with ‘bite-sized’ pieces of popular music - the perfect introduction to classical music for young and old alike! Featuring the clarinets and saxophones from the Orchestra of St John, the concerts are all supported

by Bromsgrove Festival and the North Worcestershire Economic Regeneration and Development Service.

Saturday 22nd June 4pm St Chad’s Church, Rubery OSJ Bite Sized Classics Saturday 29th June 1.30pm Bromsgrove Society History Walk in Catshill Saturday 6th July 1.30pm Catshill History Walk 3pm OSJ Bite Sized Classics at Christ Church Saturday 13th July 1.30pm Charford History Walk, led by Annie Deeley 3pm OSJ Bite Sized Classics at St Andrew’s Church Tickets are required for the walks.

Visit www.bsoc.co.uk for full details.

OSJ’s 2019 MusicFest In partnership with Bromsgrove Festival, the Orchesta of St John will perform two uplifting concerts in St John’s Church to conclude the festival.

Saturday 20th July 5pm: A Children’s Opera Sabrina – Spirit of the Severn.

The world premiere of a brand new opera by Worcester composer, Claire Prewer. OSJ and a choir of local children will tell the tale of the legend of Sabrina (the Roman name for the River Severn) the innocent girl who is transformed into the Goddess of the River.

Sunday 21st July 7.30pm: OSJ’s Annual “raise the roof” Gala Concert which brings the Bromsgrove Festival to a close.

A symphony of love, sunshine, and blue, blue sky - an uplifting

46 Completely Bromsgrove

Orchestra Leader Charlotte Moseley programme of orchestral music by Wagner, Grieg and Sibelius that will stir the emotions! The programme includes Richard Wagner’s Overture to Tannhäuser; Edvard Grieg’s Incidental Music to Peer Gynt and Jean Sibelius’ Symphony Number 2.

Both OSJ MusicFest concerts will be conducted by Music Director Dr Richard Jenkinson who recently completed his PhD at the University of Birmingham on the Music of Zoltan Kodaly and Hungary.

Visit www.osjbromsgrove.org or www.facebook. com/osjbromsgrove for full details. Buy tickets via the website or at Decanter Spirit on Bromsgrove High Street.

Proceeds from all OSJ concerts support the Heritage Future Appeal at St John’s Church to raise £1million to preserve the heritage and secure the future of the town’s heritage building. www.facebook.com/FriendsStJohnsBromsgrove for further details.

Photos by Phil Harrison

Fundraising skittles night was a knock-out!

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nother Great Skittles Evening at Bournheath Village Community Centre on Saturday 11th May saw another sell-out evening, with residents and friends enjoying a dynamic and enjoyable social event, including a curry provided by the committee.

After the Skittles Evening last October, a brilliant Christmas Fair and a successful Quiz Night in March, it is star ting to look as if Bournheath is the “Go to” destination in the area!

Hopefully, everyone had a great time, as there was much enthusiasm and support for one another during the evening.

Congratulations to the winners!

Many thanks to Catshill Social Club for the loan of the skittle alley, to those who donated prizes and to all those people who came to the event to support the Community Centre fundraising efforts, not only from Bournheath Village but from surrounding villages and further afield, without you all, it would not be such a success. Please check the website www.bournheathvcc.co.uk for the latest news and events from Bournheath Village Community Centre.

30 & 7 29 E 6& N Y JU JUL

STEP BACK TO THE

1940

S

We turn the clocks back with this light-hearted journey into wartime Britain

KIDDERMIN ST ER STATION

‘Big Band’ Show

with air ra ids JUNE 29 & JULY 6

• Dramatic fire-fighting PLUS re-enactment • 10-piece swing band Kalamazoo • Vintage clothing & • Liberating forces battle memorabilia stalls German troops • 75th anniversary of D-Day commemoration • Vintage vehicles – including • Wartime wedding & BBMF WWII tank • A whole day of unlimited flypast steam-train travel • Home Guard training display • Remembrance Service

PRE-BOOK & SAVE at SVR.CO.UK or call 01562 757900

KIDDERMINSTER · BEWDLEY · BRIDGNORTH

Completely Bromsgrove

47

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