Completely Bromsgrove issue 14

Issue14

November 2019

Completely

Bromsgrove

BURCOT GRANGE & THE LODGE Care homes with a difference

Burcot Grange & The Lodge offer a unique blend of luxury country house living combined with expert 24-hour residential, dementia and respite care TOP

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D AR AW

• Large en-suite rooms including suites ideal for couples • Friendly compassionate care teams • Relaxing lounges with open fires and views of the grounds • Five acres of landscaped grounds

Join us for our events in November The Lodge Dementia Café, 14th November from 10.30am This regular monthly event offers a morning of fun for local people living with dementia and their partner or carer. Enjoy entertainment and a complimentary buffet lunch. Please call Kiran or Mike on 0121 392 6998 to reserve your place.

Everyone is welcome

Christmas Market, 30th November from 11.30am Step into Christmas! Come along and enjoy a variety of stalls selling Christmas gifts plus seasonal refreshments.

Burcot Grange & The Lodge 23 Greenhill, Burcot, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 1BJ t: 0121 392 6998 e: burcot.haa@cinnamoncc.com w: cinammoncc.com/burcot

Welcome

Welcome to the November issue of Completely Bromsgrove.

As I sit at my laptop to write this introduction, the sun is shining and the birds are singing on a beautiful autumn day. By the end of the month, the clocks will have gone back an hour, the days will be getting shorter and winter will be just around the corner.

In this autumn issue, we bid a fond farewell to Pat Tansell, who has retired as the town’s librarian after 38 years. I’m sure you will join me in wishing Pat a long, happy and healthy retirement.

On a more sombre note, we preview this year’s Remembrance commemorations. The Bromsgrove branch of the Royal British Legion has organised the parade through the town on Sunday 10th November.

Our resident fashion guru Jane Brook offers advice on why you should invest in a winter coat and our health columnist continues her three part series focusing on the importance of a healthy diet and supplements.

Finally, with Christmas on many of our readers’ minds, we look forward to some great events that are a must for your festive diary.

With best wishes,

12

Michele Ford

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Contents 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 21

Pat bids farewell Weir stopping the floods!

Bromsgrove Flower Club The Cosy Stove Company Gardening with Karl bdht’s makeover New Starts Lest We Forget Bromsgrove Remembers

Completely

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

4 Completely Bromsgrove

Ormerod Rutter Avoncroft Cricket Club Bromsgrove Sporting FC Pensions and Divorce Sajid’s Pensioners Fair Health and Wellbeing Hussingtree Gin Talented Five Spice Chef Recipe

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Butchers Block Ladies Winter Fashion Education / Broms School Winterfold School Competition Christmas is coming!

Lights of Love Lickey Hills Art Society

Congratulations to last issue’s Competition winners: Jackie Turpin and Terrie Oliver from Bromsgrove, both won a family ticket to The British Motor Museum

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.

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Pat bids farewell to

A

fter 38 years working at Bromsgrove Library, Pat Tansell has placed her last book on the shelf and taken early retirement to concentrate on other interests.

Completely Bromsgrove chatted to Pat about her long career and here’s what we discovered.

Pat’s first day at work at Bromsgrove Library on Stratford Road was on Monday 2nd February 1981. It was her first job after leaving school and she had recently completed a computer course.

Throughout her time at school Pat had wanted a career in libraries or archives because of her interest in local history - something she wants to continue in retirement.

Her position as a Junior Library Assistant involved issuing books to customers, shelving and putting the stock into the correct order in an environment very different to that found in today’s library. The library was a quiet place where customers and staff talked in hushed tones, senior colleagues were Mr, Mrs or Miss, it was forbidden to bring a pram or pushchair into the building and the general atmosphere was strict!

Pat on the Mobile Library

to spill any coffee into the saucer where there was a biscuit, it had to be delivered on time, but she couldn’t enter Miss Barley’s office without knocking and waiting to be invited to enter.

As a quiet young woman Pat was happy with this working environment at the time, and over the years, Pat has grown in confidence as the workplace has changed.

Julie Kirkbride visits the mobile Library

Summer Reading Challenge Presentation Oct 2019

Miss Barley, Pat’s first boss, had been working in Worcestershire libraries since the 1940s and little had changed in working practices during those 40 years. There was a hierarchy which had to be respected and a marked difference between the role of junior and senior staff. Pat remembers delivering a cup of coffee to Miss Barley in the first months of her job - great care was taken not

6 Completely Bromsgrove

In the late 1980s Pat had the opportunity to become a Library Assistant with the responsibility for the day to day running of the Mobile Library.

She has fond memories of travelling round North Worcestershire and rural areas near Droitwich. The Mobile Library enabled people in rural communities to access books, either from the stock on the van or having reserved a book on a previous visit.

Pat took great pride in being able to help those living in these communities and developed lasting friendships with many of the customers. The job also broadened Pat’s horizons - she remembers seeing a lamb being born on a farm, the challenges of coping with bad weather and the difficulties caused by the foot and mouth crisis in 2001.

a long library career

Last day visitors

There have been a few changes in the way books are issued over the last 38 years and we can only imagine what Miss Barley would make of them! For the first 10 years, books were issued with paper tickets and return dates stamped into the book.

In 1991 - ten years into Pat’s career - the paper system was superseded by a computerised system.

It took a further 15 years for a first self service system in Worcestershire to be introduced in Bromsgrove, allowing customers to check out and return their own books. Pat embraced each system and the changes allowed her to focus on other aspects of the job including helping customers with research into local and family history.

Customer enquiries were always a priority for Pat. “A customer shouldn’t go away without an answer to their enquiry, although sometimes that meant referring them to another organisation.” she said.

This is certainly one of the reasons why Pat is so well loved and respected in the town. For 38 years she has given her all to serve the people of Bromsgrove and visitors to the town.

We asked Pat about her favourite times at the library. She enjoyed watching generations of families coming to the library and passing on her love of books and research.

“I’ve seen pre-school children from the 1980s grow up to have children of their own, children of children using the library, and mothers now grandmothers bringing grandchildren in to learn to read and enjoy children’s activities,” she said.

She also told us about her favourite themed display - the celebration for the 20th anniversary of Dr Who in November 1983 when a full-sized remote-controlled K-9 graced the library.

Pat with colleagues in Stratford Road

Customers, friends and colleagues from many other Bromsgrove organisations that Pat supports gathered on her final day to wish her well for her retirement. Town Crier Kevin Ward read a letter of congratulations and thanks from MP Sajid Javid and Pat was presented with a retirement fund to buy a new laptop. In the evening Pat enjoyed a party with

Last day presentations

work colleagues from past and present, including the 88-year-old man who gave her the job in 1981.

We wish Pat well in her retirement and congratulations on a long and fulfilling career.

Completely Bromsgrove

7

New pools will capture water during periods of heavy flow

Weir stopping the floods!

A

stretch of the Spadesbourne Brook in Bromsgrove is to be improved, to boost biodiversity and reduce flood risk.

The works are taking place later this year around the footpath that connects Blackmore Lane and Shenstone Close with School Drive, near to Artrix and Bromsgrove North High School.

Several small pools are to be added in the wooded area, which is part of the West Mercia Police headquarters, to hold rain and flood water and also provide better habitats for Bromsgrove’s populations of endangered water voles.

A small weir in the brook will also be fitted with a rock ramp fishpass, to improve fish passage along the brook, and a small ditch will be dug alongside the footpath to capture more excess water.

At the end of the works pollinator-friendly native wetland plants and wildflowers will be put in place, with residents invited to take part in a community planting day. A date for that will be confirmed soon – keep an eye on your local news and Bromsgrove District Council’s social media accounts for updates.

Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio holder for environmental services Cllr Margaret Sherrey said: “By working together, our partnership of agencies and the local community can make a big improvement to the brook here, and create space not only for water when it rains but also for local wildlife. There’s a community planting

Fish will be able to get past this weir more easily with a new rock ramp fishpass

day set for the end of the project, so look out for news of that if you want to take part and help improve this part of Bromsgrove.”

The works are a partnership project by the district council, Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (bdht), and the West Mercia Police & Crime Commissioner John Campion (PCC), led by the North Worcestershire Water Management team for the district council.

They’ve been funded by £1,500 each from the PCC and bdht, and up to £3,400 from the European Structural and Investment Fund, administered by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust and Worcestershire County Council as part of the Natural Networks programme.You can find out more about that programme at www.worcestershire.gov.uk/ naturalnetworks, and about the Regional Development Fund at www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding.

For more information about this project please contact Fiona McIntosh, Senior Water Management Officer at North Worcestershire Water Management, on 01562 732 567.

Endangered water vole

A ditch will help reduce flooding near the brook, and the area will be planted

8 Completely Bromsgrove

by Fiona McIntosh

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Autumnal arrangements

Autumn in a basket

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Arrangement in a hat box

Advanced Class winning competition entry by Maureen Westwood

romsgrove Flower Club were inspired by Redditch Florist Tammy Kefford who visited the club in September. The title of her demonstration was “Inspiration of Autumn”.

She created six delightful arrangements, all with an Autumn feel and gave the members lots of tips on conditioning and arranging flowers. All her beautiful designs were raffled at the end of the demonstration. The Flower Arranging Competition was entitled “Harvest” and some beautiful designs were exhibited. The Flower of the Month Competition featured some beautiful blooms from members’ gardens.

Come and join us on November 21st when National Demonstrator Delyth Price’s title will be “Christmas is Coming” Bromsgrove Flower Club meets every third Thursday in the month at All Saints Church Hall. Bromsgrove B60 1AF www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk

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The future has arrived...

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he Cosy Stove Company is a modern independent company that holds traditional values. Formed in 2014 The Cosy Stove Company began its journey within a local Bromsgrove garden centre, and has recently made its home in the centre of Bromsgrove on the Sanders Road Estate. Our new showroom is beautifully fitted out with some of the best brands of wood burning stoves in the industry for which we are very proud to sell.

We cater for the cosy cottage right through to the modern new build with our comprehensive range of wood burning stoves. Choosing the right stove is an important decision. Our experienced and knowledgeable team in the showroom will begin by guiding you through your options giving honest and sound advice with a relaxed and no pressure approach.

Following your visit, we offer a free site survey to see what options are available to you but also to get a feel for the size of the room and offer comprehensive advice to help you chose the right stove for your lifestyle.

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12 Completely Bromsgrove

save you time and money as well as present ideas that you may not have considered.

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Planting bulbs is a simple job with huge rewards S

pring bulbs are incredibly versatile and can be used in the border, naturalised in grass and wildflower meadows or planted in pots.

Even if you only have a small space or balcony, a few bulbs will fill you with excitement and give you a welcome spring display in a trough, bucket or window box.

Early flowering bulbs like snowdrops will need planting in the early autumn but later flowering varieties can be planted in November. Tulips should be planted later as this helps to reduce problems with fungus and diseases. Ideally bulbs are best dug up and dried off after flowering, stored in a dry cool place and replanted in the autumn each year.

Daffodils and narcissi, together with other spring flowering bulbs, are best left undisturbed to bulk up and form clumps. When you see those stately stems and globelike flowers from the Allium Purple Sensation in May, they too come from a bulb and that needs to be planted now.

Generally planted three times the depth of the bulb, planting spring flowering bulbs is a quick and simple job which brings huge rewards. A good tip is to sprinkle a few bulbs into your winter hanging baskets.

For that extra spring sparkle, plant into pots so that you have the advantage of being able to move them to any dull corner or to brighten up your doorstep.

Bulbs can be planted for succession planting into large pots or containers, that way you get an ever-moving display as the season moves on all from one pot. Try some tulips from the later flowering varieties in the bottom, plant them

Jobs in the garden Prune back Roses by half to prevent wind rock.

Rake up and remove fallen leaves and make a mulch Plant fruit bushes like Raspberry and Currants.

Raise the height of the mower for a final cut.

14 Completely Bromsgrove

closely together - but not touching - then a layer of gritty compost to help with drainage.

Add some Minnow or Thalia daffodils or some of the more fragment varieties with that sweet scent and another layer of compost, carrying on each layer with a different bulb variety so you have four or five layers of bulbs depending on the depth of your pot. Finish off with a few crocuses, Muscari or Scilla and that after a few months you will be rewarded with a colourful display all from one pot.

One of my favourites are Fritiillaria, excellent for selfseeding in lawns and meadows but you must leave its seedheads on and they will pop up in the most unexpected places. Snakeshead and the elegant Uva lupis with their subtle mahogany flowers and of course English bluebells, the flower that really heralds the spring, are perfect for naturalising in those tricky shady corners under trees.

Now is the time to plant prepared hyacinth bulbs, available in garden centres and nurseries. Plant five or six into a shallow bulb bowl so that three quarters of the bulb are below the surface with just the noses poking out.

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

Completely Bromsgrove is delivered directly through the letterboxes of family homes within the B60 & B61 postcodes If you would like to advertise YOUR business in the next edition contact Michele on: 07948 086870 or email

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Completely Bromsgrove

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Final makeover marks 1000 hours of bdht’s commitment to the community

T

he final project of the year has been completed by Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (bdht) staff as part of the housing association’s pledge to dedicate 1000 hours of its time to support local causes.

A team of staff from bdht grabbed their paint brushes and rollers and set about brightening up the meeting room, kitchen and hallway at the Coppice Centre, a dedicated and well-used treatment facility at Bromsgrove’s Primrose Hospice. Supporting them were colleagues from Travis Perkins, who generously donated both time and materials for the project.

More than 130 bdht employees have swapped one day, or 7.5 hours, on the job to pledge their time to support 10 local community initiatives this year including garden makeovers, decorating, renovation and community fun days.

Samantha Powell, HR Officer at bdht, said: “The 1000 hours initiative has taken our team on a fantastic journey. We are incredibly proud to have given back to local organisations which play such a vital role in the community.

“We’d also like to thank Travis Perkins for their support on this project, we really appreciate the donation of the materials and the extra pairs of painting hands were invaluable.”

Jo Wright, Volunteers Manager at Primrose Hospice,

16 Completely Bromsgrove

said: “We are absolutely delighted with the results of our Coppice Centre makeover. bdht and Travis Perkins worked tirelessly to improve our meeting area, which serves as a really important hub for our dedicated care team.”

Primrose Hospice on St Godwald’s Road supports patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families, providing them with the care they need during difficult times. For more information visit www.primrosehospice.org/ bdht is a registered provider of social housing, serving the district of Bromsgrove and surrounding areas. The not for profit organisations aims to improve the communities in which it is based, working closely with partners, such as the council, police and residents, to provide secure and comfortable accommodation, and safe and happy neighbourhoods.

While also undertakings a wide range of activities under contract to others including homelessness, supporting people, extra care and general estate management. For more information visit www.bdht.co.uk

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Completely Bromsgrove

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Bromsgrove’s best kept secret T

oday’s the day! You’re on the move - out of your homeless hostel with shared kitchen, bathroom facilities and no outside space into a lovely ground floor flat, freshly painted with green space outside. Your young children can’t wait to see their new home but you know there’s a problem: your flat is unfurnished, you have no money and no means of securing funding to furnish your property.

So, what will your children sleep on?

What will they sit on?

Your new home isn’t a home, it’s a bare shell. Either you make do and scrounge some sleeping bags and cardboard to put on the floor, or you take on loans, risking debt and possibly eventual eviction. If only this was made up but it’s real, it’s here in Bromsgrove and being played out all over the UK. Thankfully, Bromsgrove’s best kept secret, NewStarts, supports people moving into new and unfurnished properties with the gift of furniture, using unwanted but quality household items.

Furnishing more than 300 local homes each year, some of our single donations are enough to fill an entire Luton van and include sofas, beds, chests of drawers, wardrobes, rugs, carpets, curtains, bedding, crockery and kitchenware.

There is no cost to the recipient - just a gift delivered to their door to help them live with dignity in a furnished home without the pressure of debt hanging over them.

From one man, his partner and his van in 2006, we have since grown to an organisation with 11 members of staff, more than 120 volunteers a year, an 8,500 sq ft warehouse in Bromsgrove and a 667 sq ft shop in Frankley. We reuse 170 tonnes each year of items destined for landfill.

We also distribute more than 350 emergency food parcels each year to people in crisis through our

18 Completely Bromsgrove

independent food bank, which provides cover for six days per week, as well as providing affordable household items for sale from our showrooms and shop.

A key part of our service to the community is our IT project which recycles and reconditions computers/ laptops/computer accessories for sale, as well as offering free training in basic IT skills and a low-cost community IT helpdesk. If it’s digital viruses which are giving you a headache, we welcome them here at NewStarts!

If that’s not enough, we run a successful craft group and provide signposting and advocacy support.

NewStarts is far more than a second-hand shop: we are a community hub, a pivotal project full of diversity, where people come not just to browse, but to experience human warmth and support. It is a place where many feel at home and safe because they know that someone will find time for them.

We help individuals to break free from the restrictions they feel are being imposed on them: like choosing whether to furnish their home or pay their rent; to heat their home or eat.

Our volunteers, donors and trustees all play a critical role in helping NewStarts reach out to more people each year.

If you’d like to get involved in our work, we’d love to hear from you.

Visit www.newstarts.org.uk or call 01527 882410 for more details.

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Completely Bromsgrove

19

Lest We Forget

A

t this time of year our thoughts turn to remembrance for the sacrifices of those who died in conflicts at home and abroad. War memorials provide a focus for these reflections.

The aftermath of World War One was the greatest period for war memorials and commemorative tablets. Almost every town and village in the country had been touched by the conflict and Bromsgrove was no exception.

Many of the monuments commissioned at this time were designed or were associated with well-known architects and sculptors and all show the talents of those involved. They captured the mixture of pride, loss, gratitude and sorrow felt by the nation at the end of a brutal war where victory had come at a heavy price. Of course, in many cases further names had to be added later as a result of the 1939-45 conflict.

With the events of World Wars One and Two passing from living memory, these war memorials are a tangible link to the past. Catshill War Memorial is a well-known landmark, although it was not unveiled until 1927. A committee set up to consider the matter chose a site at the corner of Stourbridge Road and Meadow Road on land donated by Davenports Brewery. The memorial is of grey Cornish granite with the marble figure of an infantryman standing with bowed head and rifle reversed.

Similar examples can be found across the town and district: for example, the memorial cross at Aston Fields, several plaques at Bromsgrove School and the memorials at St John’s Church, All Saints Church and St Michael’s, Stoke Prior.

In the High Street, the most prominent memorial is that put up by the Independent Order of Oddfellows. Originally on the wall of Staffordshire Building Society, the premises are now occupied

by EE. The large stone tablet, above eye level, records 56 names for World War One and was designed by the Bromsgrove Guild.

The memorials that form the centrepiece of the town’s official Remembrance Day commemorations are both relatively new.

The main War Memorial in Market Street was constructed in 2013 at a cost of £40,000. It comprises a four-metre high cross made of Portland stone and was unveiled in a ceremony attended by veterans and troops from the Mercian Regiment. It stands alongside the Burma Star memorial, unveiled a few years earlier.

The history of war memorials and what they mean to us will be explored at a talk hosted by the Bromsgrove Society on Tuesday, November 19 at 7.45pm at the Methodist Centre.

Sandra Taylor, of the Remember the Fallen website, will describe her 20-year quest to record and conserve Worcestershire’s war memorials. Further details at www.bsoc.co.uk

by Mike Sharpe

20 Completely Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove Remembers 2 019 marks the 75th Anniversary of the D Day landings in France, and Bromsgrove will remember all those who were involved and who helped to bring WWII to an end.

On Sunday 10th November Bromsgrove Royal British Legion will organise the annual parade and service of Remembrance. The parade begins from The Strand end of Bromsgrove High Street, with those involved gathering from 10.15am. The parade will march down the High Street and Church Street, crossing Market Street to gather at the memorial on Crown Close. The service of Remembrance, led by Reverend Rayman Khan, vicar of St John’s will take place at 11am. Wreaths will be laid, hymns sung and prayers read to remember those who fought and gave their lives in all wars. All are welcome to pay their respects. A further service of remembrance takes place in St John’s church after the outdoor service.

Throughout November the Poppy Appeal Team will be found around the town and district selling poppies and poppy merchandise.

Members of the Bromsgrove Royal British Legion branch are organising a party at Artix to mark the occasion with words, music and songs on Remembrance Sunday in an evening community concert in honour of the 75th anniversary of D Day. Local artists Vintage Class, Catherine Tabberner and Fairfield among others will join compere, Town Crier Kevin Ward as he leads a journey of remembrance, celebration and partying like it’s 1944! The evening will be filled with singing, dancing, a traditional Drum head service, our very own ‘Churchill’ will make an announcement to the country about D Day and we welcome special local guests who lived and worked through wartime Great Britain. Bromsgrove’s very own Code Breaker Betty Webb will retell the moment she discovered the code that was to break an Enigma machine code as part of Alan Turin’s team.

Tickets for the special event are available from Artrix and are just £12 each. All funds raised by the event will be donated to Bromsgrove RBL Branch to support local veterans. Visit artrix.co.uk or call 01527 577330 for tickets and more information.

On Monday 11th November at 11am a minute silence will be observed at the Oddfellows memorial on the High Street. Members of the public are welcome to join members of the Royal British Legion, Revd Ray Khan and Town Crier Kevin Ward at the service.

Completely Bromsgrove

21

Advertisement Feature

Accountants pledge continued support to Men In Sheds initiative

O

rmerod Rutter Chartered Accountants, who have offices in Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa, are continuing to support their local Shed.

Men In Sheds is an initiative which helps bring together members of the community, including people who have experienced life-changing events such as redundancy, retirement or bereavement.

The Bromsgrove Shed is supported by Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest. The group was set up in 2015 and proved so popular that they had to move premises the following year to accommodate a rise in numbers.

Now based on the Metal & Ores Industrial Estate in Stoke Prior, the Shed has more than 30 active members and allows people to come together to socialise and learn new skills through woodwork, restoration activities and other community projects.

Despite the good work being done by the Shed and the difference it was making to its members, it was at risk of closure in early 2018. Since this time, the group has been working hard to raise funds.

Ormerod Rutter were the first sponsors for Bromsgrove Men In Sheds in 2018 and are proud to renew their sponsorship this year.

In October, the firm volunteered to help the group create wooden reindeers, which are sold in the local area to help raise money for the Shed. James Grove Ltd and 5 Shires Tree Surgery kindly supplied logs to use for the heads and bodies.

“We had a great day helping Men In Sheds kick start their wooden reindeer collection ready for Christmas,” said Ormerod Rutter marketing executive Eliza Bradley.

“We loved spending time with everyone at the shed and it was a pleasure to help such a wonderful charity.”

Jo Hughes, at Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest, added: “On behalf of the Shedders and Age UK BRWF I would like to say a huge thank you to the Ormerod Rutter team for a really enjoyable day and for their continued support of Bromsgrove Men in Sheds.

“We hope that ‘Reindeer Day’ has given the team a sense of what the Shed is all about – it is all about people coming together, sharing their knowledge and experiences and supporting one another to help make a difference.”

A video of the team making wooden reindeers can be viewed on Ormerod Rutter’s Facebook page.

22 Completely Bromsgrove

Avoncroft Cricket Club

Avoncroft CC reflect on busy season and prepare for 2020

M

embers have been exceptionally busy at Avoncroft Cricket Club since the end of the season with a hugely committed group of players, friends and parents preparing the ground and pavilion for the close season.

Although no cricket will be taking place, there are still regular darts league matches and social events taking place throughout the winter.

All of these provide much needed funding to go towards the ambitious plans for junior development and constant improvement of facilities at the club’s home in Stoke Heath.

The ground itself has been treated with its winter preparation which has included enhanced fencing around the pitch area, all expertly organised by Chris Pitt. This is to give guidelines to walkers, especially those with dogs, as to the areas which need to be protected for the next few months.

The club presentation night took place recently with a full house at the pavilion. Great credit for a splendid celebration goes to Mark Wood and Jason Huxley for organising the night.

Mark also celebrated winning the prestigious Avoncroft clubman of the year award for his relentless efforts to win grants, and his excellent leadership of the Saturday Second XI.

24 Completely Bromsgrove

Much thanks also went to Mar tyn Cound and his wife, who spent the whole day practising for entering the celebrity chef competition. They would cer tainly have won after presenting a magnificent Indian feast for the eager customers.

The presentation night provided a fitting end to another successful and enjoyable season for the club, which looks forward to 2020 with great expectations.

Returning to Avoncroft next summer will be the ECB’s All Stars Cricket programme which aims to give five to eight-year-olds a great first experience of the sport.

Led by All Stars activator Chris Green with coaching and administrative suppor t from Teresa Green, Nick Green, Mark Wood and Rob Erinmez, the scheme ran every Friday evening for eight weeks and attracted 17 children.

Youngsters also helped to form the guard of honour for Worcestershire’s T20 Blast game against Leicestershire Foxes at New Road.

Registration for next year’s All Stars programme will begin in spring. www.avoncroftcc.co.uk

Bromsgrove Sporting: our season is now in full flow!

Photos by David Besley

A

t the time of writing, Bromsgrove Sporting are sitting reasonably comfortable in the middle of the Southern League Premier Division Central having won four matches, drawn four and lost four.

Results have been mixed with unexpected wins against leading clubs Hednesford Bromsgrove & Sporting Season Inwere Full Flow Town and Tamworth whilst AFC Rushden Diamonds despatched 8-2 at their At the time of league writing, Bromsgrove Sporting are sitting comfortable in the middle of the Southern League ground. Unfortunately this is a competitive and there are no poorreasonably teams so Premier Division Central having won four matches, drawn four and lost four. Results have been mixed with the odd defeat also has to be expected. unexpected wins against leading clubs Hednesford Town and Tamworth whilst AFC Rushden & Diamonds were On the player front, popular winger John8-2 Pykett his 100th this match for us but despatched at their played ground. Unfortunately is a competitive league and there are no poor teams so the odd then departed to live and play in Australia.

Josh defeat also has to beQuaynor expected. also recently clocked up

by Phil Baker his century of appearances and remains thefront, lynchpin ourJohn midfield.

Arriving at match the for us but then departed to live and play in On the player popularof winger Pykett played his 100th Josh Mills Quaynor also recently clocked upwho his century of appearances Victoria Ground are Mikey TaylorAustralia. and Greg from Stourbridge bring in vast and remains the lynchpin of our amounts of skill and experience. midfield. Arriving at the Victoria Ground are Mikey Taylor and Greg Mills from Stourbridge who bring in vast amounts of skill and experience.

As well as the league, we are still playing in three cup competitions, here are the As well as the league, we are still playing in three cup competitions, here are the forthcoming fixtures. forthcoming fixtures.

Sat 26th Oct

3:00 p.m.

H

The Buildbase FA Trophy

Barwell

Tue 22nd Oct

7:45 p.m.

H

Southern League Premier Division Central

Kings Langley

Sat 2nd Nov

3:00 p.m.

A

Southern League Premier Division Central

Leiston

Tue 5th Nov

7:45 p.m.

A

Southern League Cup, 2nd Round

Coalville Town

Sat 9th Nov

3:00 p.m.

H

Southern League Premier Division Central

Redditch United

Sat 16th Nov

3:00 p.m.

A

Southern League Premier Division Central

Peterborough Sports

Sat 23rd Nov

3:00 p.m.

H

Southern League Premier Division Central

St Ives Town

Sat 30th Nov

3:00 p.m.

H

Southern League Premier Division Central

Royston Town

Sat 7th Dec

3:00 p.m.

A

Southern League Premier Division Central

Stratford Town

Sat 14th Dec

3:00 p.m.

A

Southern League Premier Division Central

Needham Market

Sat 21st Dec

3:00 p.m.

H

Southern League Premier Division Central

AFC Rushden & Diamonds

Thu 26th Dec

3:00 p.m.

A

Southern League Premier Division Central

Alvechurch

Wed 1st Jan

3:00 p.m.

H

Southern League Premier Division Central

Stourbridge

Our under 18s team got through two rounds of the FA Youth Cup but went our narrowly Our under 18s team got though two rounds of the FA Youth Cup but went our narrowly to Rushall Olympic They are to Rushall Olympic They are currently fifth playing in The Midland Floodlit Youth League. currently fifth playing in The Midland Floodlit Youth League.

Our Colts season is well underway and they play their matches on a variety of grounds Our Colts season is well underway and they play their matches on a variety of grounds around the Bromsgrove area around the Bromsgrove area on Saturday and Sunday mornings. This year we are running on Saturday and Sunday mornings. This year we are running teams from under 7s to under 18s for both boys and teams girls. from under 7s to under 18s for both boys and girls.

We always interested hearing from and fans, residents and businesses We areare always interested in hearing in from fans, residents businesses in the town; email us at in the town; email us at hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk with any enquiries about football, helping at hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk with any enquiries about football, helping at the Victoria Ground or sponsorship. the Victoria Ground or sponsorship. www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

Completely Bromsgrove

25

Advertisement Feature

Pensions and divorce: not just about the split

T

he transfer values of final salary pension schemes have been at record levels over recent years. In a paper published last October, the Financial Conduct Authority reported that employee benefit consultancies were recording “the average size of transfer at over £250,000”.

The regulator’s focus has been on the wisdom of moving such final salary pension benefits to other pension arrangements.

However, there is another aspect of large transfer values that is worth thinking about: the role they can play in divorce settlements.

A final salary pension benefit could be the single most valuable part of a financial settlement in a divorce.Yet there is anecdotal evidence that pensions are sometimes overlooked when agreeing a settlement, perhaps because their value is not fully appreciated, or it can all seem too difficult when more immediate practicalities are the primary concern.

UNDERSTAND THE OPTIONS In the UK, there are currently three main ways of dealing with pensions on divorce: Pension sharing With pension sharing the ex-spouse/civil partner’s pension(s) are shared (as the phrase suggests), with a percentage (or specified amount in Scotland) allocated to the ex-spouse/ partner. The shared element is either retained in the existing pension scheme or transferred to the ex-spouse’s civil partner’s scheme. In practice, schemes often insist on a transfer being made.

Pension offsetting This avoids disturbing the existing pension and instead in-volves offsetting its value against other assets. For example, one spouse might gain a larger share of the family home in exchange for receiving no pension benefit from the other spouse. However, calculating the appropriate level of offset can be diffcult, not least because of the tax calculations involved.

Pensions attachment orders (pension earmarking in Scotland) Under these arrangements, the ex-spouse/civil partner receives a specified proportion of the pension and/or lump sum when the divorced member starts to draw benefits (in Scotland, it’s just the lump sum that can be earmarked).

A potential drawback is that the ex-spouse/ civil partner may not receive any benefit if the

26 Completely Bromsgrove

other ex-spouse/civil partner dies before any benefit has been drawn.

Each option has its advantages and disadvantages and it is possible that the divorcing couple will see different routes as offering the best solution.

For example, pension sharing and pension attachment orders/ earmarking both require a court order to take effect, but this isn’t necessary for offsetting.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP Martin Pryor warns that pension rights If you are ever involved in a can be overlooked divorce, make sure you get expert when your assets guidance on your pension options. are divided.

There may well be more than one pension involved and it might be diffcult to obtain the relevant data, so the sooner you seek advice, the better. Contact us now and we can: Explain how each of the options would work for you; Assess the transfer value that has been calculated for any benefits; Advise on any pension transfers required; and Explain how you can improve your financial position at retirement.

The value of your investments, and the income from them, can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Investing in shares should be regarded as a long-term investment and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.

Occupational pension schemes are regulated

by The Pensions Regulator.

Contact Pryor Portfolio Management for more information: Tel: 07961 162818 | martinpryor@ ppm-ifa.co.uk www.ppm-ifa. co.uk

T 0121 445 5694 W www.ppm-ifa.co.uk E martinpryor@ppm-ifa.co.uk Pryor Portfolio is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 511176 www.fca.org.uk The Farmhouse, Pumphouse Lane, Blackwell, B60 1QN

Popular Bromsgrove Pensioners Fair Returns

B

romsgrove MP Sajid Javid will be staging his popular Pensioners Fair for the four th time at Parkside on Friday, November 22 from 10am to midday.

The event has become a staple of Bromsgrove’s social calendar, having attracted more than 500 retirees and their family members last year.

Attendees left with new friends, new hobbies and a better idea of the broad range of services, activities and events on offer right across the constituency.

Feedback from attendees included: “Brilliant atmosphere, you could feel a real-sense of community spirit” and “A great set of exhibits. I didn’t realise the range of services available to older people in Bromsgrove and I’ve signed up to a few things.”

This year, Mr Javid will be assembling the very best of Bromsgrove’s clubs, societies and charitable organisations to advertise their services and

28 Completely Bromsgrove

celebrate the contribution that older people make to our local community.

The fair will be free for both attendees and exhibitors and will be strictly non-political.

“Last year saw a record turnout with more than 50 exhibition stalls manned by a range of outstanding local organisations from Artrix to Age UK,” said Mr Javid.

“This year’s event will be the biggest and best yet.”

Mr Javid and his team are currently looking for exhibitors and sponsors for the event.

If you’re interested in becoming an exhibitor, sponsor, or would like more information, please get in touch with his office via sajid.javid.mp@parliament.uk

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Completely Bromsgrove

29 

Part 2 of a 3 part feature

Health and Wellbeing

Are we poisoning our bodies?

This is the second part of the series I began in last month’s issue in relation to why we need to be aware of the nutritional value of the supplements we are taking.

When we look at our modern lifestyle the necessity to supplement becomes even greater. Our soils are depleted in nutrients and so are the crops grown in this soil. Even with an organic diet we can still be lacking in nutrition for our body.

We need to understand that any supplement needs to be natural, by which I mean it has been created by nature and not in a laboratory. Natural supplements are in a form that is readily available to the cells or bioavailable, so that the body can absorb the full nutritional value. The body is not great at absorbing substances produced in a laboratory because the chemical makeup is foreign to the body.

Because our soil is so depleted, farmers are forced to supplement. It begins with chemical fertilizers which unfortunately also stimulates weeds, and so herbicides are used. The rampant growth attracts bugs and so the next step is pesticides etc. Every chemical sprayed on the plants becomes part of the plant and we ingest them when we eat them.

The soil really needs to be healthy and not become a chemical swamp. Neither should our bodies become a chemical swamp, which they are rapidly becoming. Add to that, many of the crops are now genetically modified and we are asking the body to do the impossible. Any surprise we get more and more ailments?

The body misses the raw ingredients to repair itself.

Just one teaspoon of healthy soil has the same number of bacteria and microbes as we have within our own entire body. Every one of these has a role to play in keeping our body healthy. Destroy the vast majority and our body has a real problem. Our gut is our second brain and what happens in our gut influences our entire wellbeing.

Our body is very much like a garden. Care for it and it will blossom and bloom.The best gardeners focus on the quality of the soil. However, on a barren landscape without nutrition it will wither and die, and so will our body.

When we go through a stressful period in our life our symptoms begin to get worse. Our blood pressure rises, our cholesterol count increases, our sugar levels are going crazy, our joints are hurting, we feel bloated or we are gaining or losing weight. The body is totally out of balance and does not have the raw materials to correct the imbalance.

Natural supplementation is perhaps the only solution, although compared to a healthy diet it remains a compromise. Ditch the chemicals!

The older we get the more chemicals we take into our bodies through pollution, fluoride in our water system, chemicals in our shampoos, face creams and shaving creams - the list goes on and on. However, once we have knocked out our immune system we are then faced with inflammation, auto-immune disease, major diseases, cardiac problems, hormone problems, to name just a

by Colette Garside few, this is the catch 22 situation.

Colette@Need4Change.com Look out for my third article in the series in December.

30 Completely Bromsgrove

Hussingtree Gin - Handcrafted and inspired in Worcestershire

H

ussingtree Gin launched in 2018 with a focus on creating interesting and flavoursome gins that are inspired by the produce grown in their home county of Worcestershire

The family team research, develop and produce all of their gins at their distillery in the hamlet of Martin Hussingtree, near Droitwich. The gins are created in small batches following the one shot method in traditional alembic copper stills. The result being a range of truly authentic craft gins, with each gin having its own distinctive characteristics.

An award-winning summer The Hussingtree team are thrilled to have received recognition for the quality of their gins through two recent awards.

Their pretty unique Asparagus Dry Gin was awarded a coveted Silver Medal in the Global Spirits Masters 2019. The competition is the only truly blind tasting competition to pride itself on using completely independent judges, including spirits journalists, buyers, educators and bartenders.

Within weeks of winning the Silver Medal, Hussingtree Bumbleberry Dry Gin was awarded a One Star at the Great Taste Awards 2019. Organised by the Guild of Fine Foods, the Award is widely acknowledged as the most respected food accreditation scheme for artisan and speciality food and drink producers.

“We are thrilled to have received our first awards this summer. Our Asparagus Dry Gin has really captured people’s attention following its launch in April.” Duncan Gilroy, Director at Hussingtree Gin, explains. “Both our Asparagus and Bumbleberry Dry Gins have quickly become

firm favourites at our gin tasting experiences and provide something different for our retail and on trade customers.”

The importance of local Hussingtree Gin is a proud partner of Worcestershire County Cricket Club and a member of various associations, including Worcestershire Food and Drink, H&W Chamber of Commerce, and One Worcestershire. Common amongst the groups is a focus on supporting active local and independent business communities.

“Collaborating with local businesses is really important to us.” Explains Elaine Meredith, another of the family Directors. “Not only with our suppliers and customers, but in the broader sense of facilitating opportunities alongside other businesses in the region. As a Worcester Ambassador myself, I’ve experienced first hand the benefits that can be realised through strong local connections.”

Alongside their bottled gins (available in 5cl, 35cl and 70cl), Hussingtree Gin offer gin tasting experiences, branded solutions for retailers and corporate clients, personalised wedding miniatures, and small batch contract distillation.

Hussingtree Gin is available locally at Decanter Spirit. Pop in to the shop located at 49 High Street, Bromsgrove to purchase bottles from the full Hussingtree Gin range.

www.hussingtreegin.co.uk | www. instagram.com/hussingtree_gin www. facebook.com/hussingtreegin | www. twitter.com/inhussingtree Completely Bromsgrove

31

Advertisement Feature

Head chef at Five Spice has high hopes in national restaurant competition

A

leading tandoori restaurant near Bromsgrove is celebrating after its head chef reached the finals of a prestigious national competition.

Abul Kashim, who has run the kitchen of the Five Spice Bangladeshi and Tandoori restaurant in Stourbridge Road, Belbroughton, since it opened has been recognised by the BCA Curry Awards.

Having been nominated by customers, Abul made it through to a live cook-off at Hammersmith College in London.

Competing chefs were challenged to cook their signature dish from fresh ingredients and within an hour.

Abul, from Walsall, cooked his favourite dish – duck curry with orange alongside foil-baked sea bass with baby spinach. He developed these dishes as part of the restaurant’s current menu and is now working hard to launch another award-winning menu over the next few weeks.

Despite competing against chefs much older than himself, Abul was not lacking confidence and was delighted to learn he has been nominated as one of the finalists in the restaurant of the year category.

Abul added: “I’m pretty confident that we can bring the award back to Five Spice.”

Manager at Five Spice, Mr Miah, said the whole team was proud of his achievements.

Mr Miah said: “Abul is only 22 but since day one he has been very creative and our customers have been delighted with the food he has produced.”

32 Completely Bromsgrove

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01562 730 499 | WWW.FIVESPICEONLINE.CO.UK MONDAY - THURSDAY: 5PM - 12PM FRIDAY - SATURDAY: 5PM - 1AM | SUNDAY: 1PM - 11PM

Slow-Braised Beef in Red Wine

RECIPE

E

very bistro in France boasts its own special recipe for Boeuf Bourguignon - recipes that could be even tastier if the chef added a good splash of soy sauce! Long, slow braising makes the beef extra tender and helps it absorb all the mellow flavours of the wine and herbs Serves 4 Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: about 2 1/2hours Per serving: Kcals: 627, Total fat: 31.2g, Saturated fat: 12.4g Ingredients 175g/6oz streaky bacon, chopped 2tbsp sunflower oil (if needed) 900g/2lb braising steak, cut into 4cm/1 1/2in cubes 12 small shallots, peeled 12 baby carrots 1 tbsp flour 300ml/ ½ pt red wine 300ml/ ½ pt beef stock 2tbsp Kikkoman Soy Sauce 100g/4oz button mushrooms 1 tsp dried herbes de Provence 4tbsp chopped fresh parsley

www.kikkoman.co.uk www.lovebritishfood.co.uk

34 Completely Bromsgrove

Method 1. Preheat oven to 160C/Gas mark 3. Fry the bacon, remove and transfer to a large casserole.

In the same pan, fry the steak briskly in batches, transferring to the casserole as it browns and adding oil if needed.

2. Lower the heat and fry the shallots until golden.

Add the carrots, cook for 2 minutes, then transfer to the casserole.

3. Stir the flour into a little of the wine then add to the pan with the remaining wine, stock and soy sauce. Bring to the boil, stirring until thickened.

4. Add the mushrooms and herbs and pour into the casserole. Cover tightly and cook in the oven for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.

5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Tip: Tuck a sheet of foil under the casserole lid to make a tight seal so none of the precious cooking juices can evaporate.

Variation: If your pot is big enough, add extra vegetables such as baby carrots, turnips and new potatoes about 1 hour before the end of cooking time for a one-pot meal.

Butcher’s Block in running for prestigious retail award It’s been a busy few months for the ladies at Butcher’s Block.

Fresh from their first anniversary event where they raised £360 for charity, they have recently been shortlisted in the independent retailer of the year category at this year’s Birmingham Awards.

“Nothing says how much we have turned the business around better than finding out we were shortlisted,” says head butcher Michelle, we will have to wait until the black tie awards ceremony at the Library of Birmingham on November 9th to find out if Butcher’s Block are among the winners.

With Christmas just around the corner, the girls have been busy taking orders for Christmas hampers. Three sizes are available ranging from £60 to £89.99. Alternatively, they can help you create your own hamper to order.

Also new for winter are winter warmer packs including Lashford Sausages, stewing beef, a whole chicken and more for only £20, giving you plenty of produce to make hearty stews and casseroles.

Why not grab your lunch at Lil’s Baps on Bromsgrove Market every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Since joining Michelle in the business, Lil has been working on a monthly gourmet special using local produce.

Keep up to date with the latest news and offers by following Butcher’s Block on Facebook @Butcherblockbromsgrove

Shortlisted at this years Birmingham Awards as ‘Independent Retailer Of The Year’ Get your orders in now for one of our Festive hampers or create your own Winter warmer packs only £20, great for making your stews and casseroles Stockist of award winning Lashford Sausages Lil’s’ Baps now on Bromsgrove Market every Tuesday, Friday & Saturday Follow us: www.facebook.com/ButchersBlock

53 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AJ

Tel: 01527 570241

Time to invest in a winter coat

I

f you haven’t started looking for a winter coat, now’s the time. After all, they have already started to appear in the shops and you’ll want to find the best one before it sells out - and before the weather gets nasty.

A winter coat is a serious investment.You’ll be wearing it more often than anything else in your wardrobe, so it must work from top to toe.

Let’s start with the most important things your winter coat needs to do: • Keep you warm and dry; • Fit perfectly and be comfortable; • Work for your lifestyle; • Look fabulous and make you feel amazing when you wear it.

How much should I spend?

Go for the maximum you can afford. If you need to convince yourself about this, think about the cost per wear.

Bear in mind that this coat will be the first thing that people notice about you. Get it right and you’re guaranteed to turn heads and feel gorgeous, no matter what the winter weather throws at you.

Trendy or classic?

It’s best to avoid high fashion. A bang-on-trend coat may be tempting but the chances are, this time next year it will look a bit... last year. A classic coat never goes out of style and can be brought on-trend with a scarf, brooch, boots or an amazing hat. Accessorising is an easy way to change the look of your coat in an instant.

Before you start shopping...

Think carefully about how you’ll be wearing your winter coat. For example, when in and out of cars or clambering on and off buses it’s best to avoid too much length.

A sweeping ankle-length number can look gorgeously elegant but they are easy to shut in a car door or get caught up as you move around - nothing gorgeous and elegant about doing that!

If you are going OUT OUT? it’s a different story.

Do you do a lot of walking, going outdoors to indoors and back again? It’s easy to get too hot. Look out for a lightweight coat with a cashmere/wool mix. It will be warm without the bulk and weight of a 100% wool coat. Don’t forget about pockets. When it’s cold, they’ll be your friends - and practically speaking, you’ll have somewhere to put your gloves.

What about colour and style?

For a great investment, go for one of your best neutrals or one of your basic colours (blues, greens or yellows) from your season. Any of these will give you a radiant glow and your new coat will go with absolutely everything in your wardrobe.

Your coat also needs to be a perfect fit for your body architecture as well as having a character that reflects who you are on the inside. When making a significant investment, make sure it’s a good one!

www.houseofcolour/janebrook

36 Completely Bromsgrove

by Jane Brook

Education 2019/20 We NEVER stop learning

Bromsgrove School Under 16 girls are hitting new heights!

C

ongratulations to Bromsgrove School’s U16 Girls’ Cup tennis team who have qualified for the Regional Finals of the Aegon Tennis Championships by beating a very strong King’s High, Warwick team 5 sets to 1 on Friday 4th October.

The team of Josie Ward, Izzy O’Connor, Kelly Lin and Grace Richardson is now one of the top 3 schools in the West Midlands. The Regional Finals will be held at Tipton Indoor Tennis Centre in November which if they win, will take them through to the National Finals in 2020.

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37

Winterfold pupils inspired

by British sporting heroes

G

B Olympic gymnast Kristian Thomas and Jack Rutter, captain of the GB Paralympic cerebral palsy football team, visited Winterfold on October 4 as par t of a Spor ts for Schools initiative.

Children from year eight to reception joined in with exercise circuits, followed by an inspirational assembly for the whole school.

Kristian rose to fame when he was crowned senior British champion. In 2012, he was part of the British team that won Olympic bronze in London before he came back from a minor injury in 2013 to take bronze on vault at the World Championships. As captain of Team GB’s gymnastics squad for the Olympic Games in Rio 2016, Kristian helped the team to fourth place and reached the individual floor final.

Following an enjoyable morning of exercises coached by Kristian and Jack, the entire school listened attentively as Kristian spoke of his life as a gymnast, culminating in his competing in two consecutive Olympics.

The gymnastic demonstration was breathtaking and the children’s reactions were a sign of how much they were

38 Completely Bromsgrove

enjoying it. They were particularly in awe of the children - and Mrs Toms - who were prepared to lie down for Kristian to somersault over them.

Both sportsmen had advice for the children; Kristian commented “Dream big, work hard and listen to your coach” and Jack’s recommendations were “teamwork, respect and self-belief.”

Mrs Julia Humfress, director of sport, said: “It was a wonderful morning. The children were thoroughly inspired. Kristian started gymnastics from the age of five and has achieved so much. His personal highlight was to win bronze at the London Olympics.

It was lovely to hear his story and watch his gymnastics demonstration. It was great to show the children that there really is a sport out there for everyone”.

Following an energetic morning, Isla and Ed interviewed the athletes in the radio room for a podcast which will soon be on Winterfold’s YouTube channel.

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Alcester Grammar Alcester Grammar School Alcester Grammar Alcester Grammar School Grammar SchoolSchool School To book into ourAlcester Alcester Grammar

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Sixth Form Open Sixth Form Open Evening next Education Sixth Form SixthOpen FormEvening Open Evening Evening Thursday 14 November 2019 Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 14 November 2019 School Thursday 14 November 2019 14 –November 2019 Feature within ThursdayThursday 5pm 8.15pm th 5pm – 8.15pm 5pm – 8.15pm14 November 2019 the October issue5pm – 8.15pm Sixth Form Open Evening 5pm – 8.15pm please call Thursday 14th November 2019 Parents and prospective Year 12 students are welcome to join us at any time throughout the 5pm – 8.15pm Michele on evening for tours, displays and to meet students and Parents and prospective Year 12 students are 07948 086870 staff. welcome to join us at any time throughout the or email The Principal and displays Head of Sixth evening for tours, and toForm meet students and th

th th th

Parents Parents and and prospective prospective Year Year 12 12 students students are are welcome welcome to to join join us us Parents and prospective Year 12welcome students welcome to joinmeet us Parents and prospective Year 12 students are toare join us at at any any time time throughout throughout the the evening evening for for tours, tours, displays displays and and to to meet at any time throughout evening for tours, at any time throughout the evening forthe tours, displays and todisplays meet and to meet students and staff. students and staff. students and staff. students and staff.

The The Principal Principal and and Head Head of of Sixth Sixth Form Form will will give give presentations presentations at at The Principal and Form Head will of Sixth Form will give presentations at The Principal and Head of Sixth givethe presentations at 5.15pm, 5.15pm, 6.15pm 6.15pm and and 7.15pm 7.15pm in in the Theatre.

Theatre.

5.15pm, 6.15pm and 7.15pm in the Theatre.

5.15pm, 6.15pm and 7.15pm in the Theatre.

Please Please register register your your interest interest prior prior to to this this date date at at www.alcestergs.co.uk www.alcestergs.co.uk www.alcestergs.co.uk register yourtointerest prior to this date at www.alcestergs.co.uk Please register Please your interest prior this date at www.alcestergs.co.uk “Possibly the best school I have ever visited.”

Inspector HMI “Possibly best school HMI Inspector “Possibly the the school III have have ever ever visited.” visited.”

HMI the best best visited.”

HMI Inspector Inspector “Possibly the best“Possibly school I have everschool visited.”have ever HMI Inspector Birmingham Road, Alcester, B49 5ED Birmingham Birmingham Road, Road, Alcester, Alcester, B49 B49 5ED 5ED Telephone: 01789 762494 Birmingham Road, Alcester, B49 5ED Birmingham Road, Alcester, B49 5ED will give presentations at 5.15pm, staff.

Telephone: Telephone: 01789 01789 762494 762494 Telephone: 01789 762494 Email: sixthform@alcestergs.com Telephone: 01789 762494 Email: Email: sixthform@alcestergs.com sixthform@alcestergs.com 6.15pm and 7.15pm in the Theatre.

Email: sixthform@alcestergs.com Email: sixthform@alcestergs.com

michelebromsgrove@outlook.com

The Principal and Head of Sixth Form

[Type a quotepresentations from the document or summary of an interesting point. You will give atthe 5.15pm,

(Send photo as a jpeg and AGS logo as a pdf) (Send photo as a jpeg and as aTheatre. pdf) (Send photo as a and AGS AGS logo logo as and 7.15pm the (Sendand photo as a jpeg jpeg logo as a a pdf) pdf) (Send photo as a6.15pm jpeg AGS logo as aand pdf)AGSin

[Type a quote from the document or the summary of an interesting point. You

Open mornings

RGS The Grange 9 November 2019 | 9.00am - 12.30pm 01905 451205

RGS Worcester Sixth Form 16 November 2019 | 9.00am - 12.30pm

01905 613391

Independent Education for boys and girls aged 2-18 years www.rgsw.org.uk Completely Bromsgrove

39

OPEN EVENING & OPEN MORNING Fantastic facilities for pupils aged 2-11 Thursday 14th November 2019 6pm-8pm Saturday 16th November 2019 10am-12noon or by appointment

Wraparound care from 7:30am until 6pm

Holiday Club 8am to 6pm

(school open 48 weeks per year)

NURSERY & PRE-SCHOOL

Places Available Our provision is teacher led offering educational rigour in a nurturing environment which supports whole child development.

We Offer: Places for children aged 2-5 Free funded places (inc.30 hrs) Flexible sessions Extensive outdoor learning opportunities To book your free taster session please contact the school office on 01562 777312 or email office@chaddesleycorbett.

Chaddesley Corbett Endowed Primary & Pre-School

www.ccschool.co.uk

For more information please contact the school office on Tel: 01562 777312

40  Completely Bromsgrove

Have your ELF a Merry Christmas at West Competition Midland Safari Park…

WIN a family pass for the winter season

F

rom 16 November and on selected dates throughout December, West Midland Safari Park is hosting its annual Santa Safari, where guests can meet the big man himself and his jolly elf helpers.

The elves will be very busy, setting up the magical grotto, planting over 350 Christmas trees and transforming the whole of the Park’s Discovery Trail, with lights, baubles and a sprinkling of ‘snow’.

Guests will be magically transported to the North Pole, where they will be able to pay a visit to Santa in his grotto.

Children will get a memento of their day by having a picture of themselves with Santa to take home and they’ll be able to choose their very own present in the elves’ workshop.

Also included in the package is a visit to Mrs Claus’ Kitchen, where children can receive a drink and cookie, whereas adults are treated to a mulled wine and mince pie.

Admission to Santa Safari is £25.00 for adults, £20.00 for children aged 3-15 years, £9.00 for children under the age of three and £23.00 for concessions. Admission includes a free return ticket. Group and school discounts are also available and annual pass holders or visitors using their return ticket can upgrade to Santa Safari by booking ahead. The Adventure Theme Park is closed during the winter season.

You can find out more on the Safari Park’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/WestMidSafari

WIN a Family pass to West Midland Safari Park

Simply answer the following question “How many Christmas trees are being planted?” then fill in this form, cut out and post to: West Midland Safari Park Competition, 11 West Road, Bromsgrove.

B60 2NG. All entries must be in by Monday 25th November 2019 Answer .................................................................................................................................

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

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

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Christmas is coming!

F

riends of St John’s Bromsgrove Christmas Markets are back for a fifth year on Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd November 2019.

Come along and support local crafters, producers and charities as we kick off the festive season and Switch On the town centre lights. On the Christmas Market stalls you’ll find local people selling their produce and home made crafts, or supporting local charities. Come along and buy home made preserves and chutneys from Sarah’s Feisty Flavours, Christmas Crafts from St Basil’s, Chadsgrove and St John’s, repurposed jeans from the Demin Upcycler, beautiful jewellery from Romsley Gems and Christine Harmer, wonderful stained glass gifts from Bren Henderson at Sildil, delicious apple juice from Fruitfields and much much more!

The two day market runs alongside the regular market in Bromsgrove on Friday 22nd from 9am til 4pm and on Saturday 23rd November from 10am until 6.30pm. Both days will be packed with all day entertainment from local groups and acts and we’re delighted to welcome back Vintage Class Singers to take us into the Bromsgrove Christmas Light Switch On at 5.30pm on Saturday 23rd.

Bromsgrove High Street will really be buzzing on Saturday 23rd. Markets are open all day, with festive food and drinks available, the stage for the Christmas Light Switch On opens

42 Completely Bromsgrove

at 3.30pm with the count down to the light up at 5.30pm, then the party continues with the Bromsgrove Indie Club street party until 9pm on Worcester Road. Come along and join in the fun! There’s something for everyone.

The Snowman in St John’s Church On Saturday 30th November join the Orchestra of St John Bromsgrove for a Christmas favourite - let the music from the Snowman play a part in your festive celebrations.

OSJ return to perform The Snowman for a third year following sell out performances in the last two years. All are welcome to wrap up warm, come along and enjoy the wonderful music in our magical setting of St John’s Church.

There are two performances on Saturday 30th - at 4.30pm and 6.30pm. Adult tickets are £5 and children can attend for free - please make sure you request free child tickets when buying adult tickets. Tickets are available from Decanter Spirit in Bromsgrove or online via www.snowman-in-stjohns.eventbrite.co.uk Please note we won’t be showing the movie, we’ll be playing the wonderful music so that you can create a movie in your mind.

For further details see www.facebook.com/ FriendsStJohnsBromsgrove or email friends.stjohns. church@gmail.com or www.OSJBromsgrove.org

F RO S T FA I R

Held in the Under Hall and large heated marquees on the terraces

Fri 22nd, Sat 23rd & Sun 24th November 2019 10:00am – 5:00pm

Splendid gifts for family and home Original and wonderful crafts Fine foods direct from the producers Festive atmosphere and entertainment Morning coffee, lunches and afternoon teas Father Christmas Free parking Local Choir

Prices on the day: Adults £6.00, Concession (60+) £5.00 Accompanied children (under 16) free Discounted advance tickets from: www.battenburgevents.co.uk / 01487 814 800 Organised by Battenburg Events Ltd

www.battenburgevents.co.uk

Follow Battenburg Events on Completely Bromsgrove

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Remember loved ones during Lights of Love campaign

R

esidents are invited to remember their loved ones during Primrose Hospice’s 2019 Lights of Love campaign.

People will be given the chance to dedicate a light to a loved one on dedicated Christmas trees in the town as well as have their names included in remembrance books.

Emma Williams, fundraising manager at Primrose Hospice, said: “Lights of Love gives everyone an opportunity to remember a loved one.

“People are invited to dedicate a light on one of our Christmas trees in Bromsgrove, Redditch and Rubery. Their names are then placed in remembrance books around our trees for family and friends to visit throughout the festive season.

“In return, we ask for a donation which allows the hospice to continue its vital work supporting patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

“Last year we were thrilled to raise more than £37,000 which helped us to continue to offer our outstanding care and support free of charge.”

Lights of Love services are being held at: • Bromsgrove Methodist Centre on Saturday, November 23 at 3.30pm followed by the blessing of the Bromsgrove Christmas Tree outside Asda at 5pm.

• St Stephen’s Church, Redditch on Saturday, November 24 at 2pm.

• Beacon Church Centre, Rubery on Sunday, December 1 at 4pm.

People are also invited to attend Carols by Candlelight at Primrose Hospice on Thursday, December 19 from 6pm.

Named dedications will be placed in a remembrance book around the Christmas trees that can be viewed at: Bromsgrove Placed around the Christmas tree outside Asda, Market Street and in Bromsgrove Methodist Centre and at Thomas Brothers Funeral Directors.

44 Completely Bromsgrove

Redditch Placed in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre beside our Christmas Tree, in Redditch Crematorium and at Thomas Brothers Funeral Directors.

Rubery Names will be placed on the information board by our Christmas Tree on the High Street from November 30.

Dedications can be made online at primrosehospice.org/ support-us/fundraising/lights-of-love They can also be sent by post or made in person at Primrose Hospice, St Godwald’s Road, Bromsgrove, B60 3BW. Alternatively, visit the hospice’s charity shops or call 01527 889796.

CHRISTMAS The Phoenix Dance Club present

40’s Night Dance for ballroom and sequence dancing to CJ Sounds (keyboard player)

Saturday 9th November 2019, 8pm til 11.30pm,

at Bromsgrove Council Building, Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove (use B61 0AZ for Sat Nav’s).

Admission is by ticket only £5.00. Free parking Fish and Chips or Scampi and Chips can be purchased for an additional cost. Coffee, tea or hot chocolate available for 30p per cup.

No bar facilities are available, but please feel free to bring your own drinks.

No membership to the club is required.

For further information or tickets, please contact Mick and Thelma James on 01527 872634

ROUSLER BAR, VICTORIA GROUND, BROMSGROVE, B61 0DR

SUNDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 11AM - 4PM

CHRISTMAS SUNDAY 1ST DECEMBER 11AM - 4PM

20 stalls across 2 rooms selling handcrafted gifts | FREE ENTRY | on-site bar Christmas Craft Fayre at Bromsgrove Sporting’s Victoria Ground

v

Forthcoming Attractions Box Office 01527 65203

For full details of performance times and ticket prices please go the theatre website

Online booking www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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Avoncroft Fest-of-Ale Saturday 16th November 2019 5-11pm Avoncroft Museum will host its first ever ‘Fest-of-Ale’ this November! Surrounded by historic buildings, come and sample hand-picked ales, ciders and perries and enjoy a selection of breads, cheeses and music in New Guesten Hall.

Admission cost: £5 entrance charge (pre-purchased tickets) includes programme and two halves (three halves for card-carrying CAMRA members).

So come along and eat, drink and be merry!

www.avoncfroft.org.uk/whats-on/

Monochrome Art Meeting L HAS (Lickey Hills Arts Society) met in October for a members theme topic of monochrome art (some pieces are featured here) to enjoy and learn from demonstrations by established artists in a friendly and informal atmosphere. Our forthcoming demonstrator for Saturday 2nd November is Mike Crockett and members theme painting is pen and wash.

A warm welcome is waiting for visitors who would like to come along to any of our meetings. (visitors entry fee £4) or maybe become a member £20.00, family £30.00 plus £1.00 per meeting for tea/coffee and biscuits.

Have a look at our programme page to see what we will be up to throughout the year.

We meet at 7.30pm on the first Saturday of each month (except January) at Methodist Church Hall, Bristol Road South, Longbridge, B45 9TY

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WG AI RL DL EO NW BC ERNOT OR KE Stourbridge Road , Catshill, Bromsgrove B61 0BL www.willowbrookgc.co.uk

WILLOW TREE

Open 9.00-5.30 Monday-Saturday, 10-5 Sunday

CHRISTMAS NOW OPEN! Book Breakfast and Storytime with Santa at

R E S T A U R A N T

Traditional

ROAST DINNER

AVAILABLE EVERY SUNDAY & WEDNESDAY FROM 12 NOON

www.willowbrookgc.co.uk

Come and try our new

Breakfast menu.

delicious

HOT MEALS SERVED EVERY DAY FROM 12 NOON

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Christmas orders now being taken CATERING & RETAIL BUTCHERS FREE Home delivery available 6 days a week Visit our shop at 9 Ryefields Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4NA

www.thebutcheressltd.com

Tel: 01527 435669

Award winning sausages, bacon & burgers