Completely Bromsgrove issue 15

Issue 15

Dec. 2019 Jan. 2020

Completely

Bromsgrove

Christmas at

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Christmas Fayre Christmas Demonstrations Breakfast with santa Storytime with Santa Santa’s Grotto Real Christmas Trees

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Welcome

We’ve reached the end of 2019 with the Christmas and New Year edition of Completely Bromsgrove.

I can’t quite believe how quickly this year has gone and I’d like to thank all the readers and advertisers for their continued support. Without you all, Completely Bromsgrove wouldn’t be the great magazine it has evolved into.

In this issue, we focus on why it’s so important to support your local High Street and its independent retailers. Bromsgrove is lucky to have so many right on our doorstep. With Christmas shopping very much on everyone’s ‘to do’ list, I urge you all to support our independents as without your custom, we could lose them.

This year’s Remembrance Sunday saw record crowds turn out to see the parade and to stand in silence on the stroke of 11am. Around 50 wreaths and crosses of remembrance were laid at the memorial in Crown Close.

We’re honoured to be able to report on history in the making. For the first time in the Court Leet’s history, a woman has taken the position of Bailiff and the head of the Court. Completely Bromsgrove would like to congratulate Jo Slade and wishes her all the very best in her new role.

This bumper issue will hopefully give you plenty to read and keep you informed right through until our February 2020 issue.

And on that note, may I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Very best wishes,

Michele Ford

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Contents 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22

Court Leet’s first Lady Bromsgrove Remembers Bromsgrove Methodist Church Worcestershire Wildlife Trust Bromsgrove Flower Club Gardening Independent retailers Recipe Butchers Block come close!

Completely

23 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 40

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

4 Completely Bromsgrove

Canto Mando The Brook Five Spice - winners!

School Fees Sajid’s message Dire Straits at school Fitness Fashion Health and Wellbeing Blue Cross on lost cats

41 42 44 46 47 48 49 50 51

Home Instead Christmases of yesteryear Artrix events The Snow Dancer, Fairfield St Johns Church events Peaky Blinders Webbs skating rink New Ravens rugby Bromsgrove Sporting F.C.

Congratulations to last issue’s Competition winners: Ashley Dorgan and Amanda Cimarosti, both from Bromsgrove, won a family pass to West Midland Safari Park.

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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History made as

Reeve Neil Beaumont, Bailiff Joanne Slade, IPB Bill Tucker.

Headborough reports on Bluebell Walk

6  Completely Bromsgrove

Photos by Geoff Hawkesworth

Bailiff Joanne Slade and Lord of the Manor Chris Bird

Bromsgrove Court Leet elects first female Bailiff A

t the Great Autumn Court on November 7th members of The Ancient Court Leet and Court Baron of the Manor of Bromsgrove voted unanimously to elect Ms Joanne Slade as Bailiff for the forthcoming year.

Bromsgrove Court Leet traces its history back to 1199 when King John granted a charter to the town. However, the court follows the manorial system which was introduced to this country by William the Conqueror in 1066. William commissioned the Domesday Book, completed in 1086, and in which the Manor of Bromsgrove is recorded.

Jo concluded her acceptance speech by giving her thanks and gratitude to the long list of women who had supported the court through its long history and continue to do so today. She recognised that whilst she is the first female Bailiff, over the centuries hundreds of women had played an invaluable supportive role in the background of the organisation.

This is the first time in the Court’s history that a woman has taken the position of Bailiff and the head of the Court. In her inaugural speech Jo promised to uphold the traditions of the Ancient Court and outlined her plans for the year stating that she would be following a traditional programme of events with a few tweaks.

Thanks were given to retiring Bailiff Bill Tucker for his excellent year in office and Juryman Neil Beaumont was elected Reeve to the Court. The Bellman Kevin Ward reported on his year’s activities and the Headborough Geoff Evans reported on the Bluebell Walk. The officers of the Court - Ale Taster, Brook Looker, Searcher and Sealer of Leather, Carniter and BreadWeigher - were elected and the Tythingmen presented their lists. Many Ealdormen and Affeerors were present to vote and oversee the proceedings.

Jo is keen to raise the profile of the Court in Bromsgrove and for the Court to be available to support independent businesses and local charities. The main event in the Court’s annual calendar is Fair Day. All are welcome to witness the traditional parade and reading of the charter on Saturday June 20th on Bromsgrove High Street.

Ealdorman David Slade proposed Jo as Bailiff and Ealdorman Chris Firminger seconded the proposal. Jo said her father was an inspiration to her and she also paid tribute to the late Simon Cupitt who had put her name forward to join the Court during his year as Bailiff in 2010. Members agreed that the 2020 “Ride Out” event will be held in Simon’s memory.

Charities to be supported during 2020 are Friends of St John’s, Bromsgrove for the Heritage Future Appeal, Avoncroft Museum and St Basil’s Bromsgrove. The Court will also continue to support Bromsgrove Festival and the Bromsgrove International Music Competition.

Bromsgrove Court Leet is grateful to Bromsgrove School for the use of Cookes Room where the Autumn Court is held.

To find out more about the Bromsgrove Court Leet visit www.bromsgrovecourtleet.co.uk or www.facebook.com/CourtLeetBromsgrove

The Bellman Opens the Great Autumn Court

Completely Bromsgrove

7

Bromsgrove comes together to remember

C

rowds lined Bromsgrove High Street to witness the longest Remembrance Day Parade on Sunday 10th November.

Organised by the Bromsgrove Branch of the Royal British Legion, the parade included local Scout, Guide, Brownie and Rainbow groups who joined the veterans, RBL members, Bromsgrove Court Leet, councillors and many others to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for their country.

The parade stopped at the War Memorial on Crown Close for the Service of Remembrance conducted to Vicar of St John’s, Rev Ray Khan. Around 50 wreaths and crosses of remembrance were laid at the memorial. A short service followed inside the church where wreaths were laid at the memorials to World War One and the Boer War. Similar parades and services were held at memorials across the Bromsgrove district and all were well attended.

8 Completely Bromsgrove

A Celebration Concert marking the 75th anniversary of D-Day held at Artrix in the evening brought the crowd to their feet, waving flags and joining in the songs.

The audience enjoyed a captivating interview with Bletchley Park code breaker and local resident Betty Webb, John Burman as Winston Churchill, the Town Crier reading messages, singing with Catherine Tabberner and folk band Fairfield, a drum head ceremony and silence lead by Patrick Smith and Rev Khan and songs from the 1940s with Vintage Class.

At 11am on Monday 11th November - Armistice Day - a Service of Remembrance was held at the Oddfellows Memorial.

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Church’s woollen poppies display returns for Remembrance Sunday

B

romsgrove Methodist Church received such wonderful feedback from last year’s ambitious woollen poppy banner project that they decided to store the poppies for 12 months and then, with some alterations, display the banner again this year.

Brenda Whipp, church steward, was responsible for the revamp. A small group of helpers were needed to tidy up the stored poppies and get the display back on the wall. The white 100 was removed and replaced with D-Day 75.

There are approximately 18,000 woollen poppies in the display, which represent a lot of hard work but the public response made it all worthwhile.

The poppies were erected on 23rd October and officially recognised by the Bromsgrove Branch of the British Legion on 26th October.

There was a bumper turnout at the church for Remembrance Sunday on November 10th. The Boys Brigade were in attendance along with the newly established Girls Brigade. Parents and children attended the service for half an hour and then left with the Minister Rev Steven Levett, who led the group into the High Street to join the large procession heading towards the War Memorial in Market Street.

Help track down reckless fly tippers

T

here has been a disturbing increase in fly tipping across Fairfield parish ward and in the surrounding area recently.

Rubbish dumped has included a bucket of dog excrement, rabbit hutch waste, furniture, tins of paint, asbestos and general household waste.

This can all be harmful to the environment and can kill wildlife and livestock.

If you witness or have any information relating to fly tipping, please help others to track down those responsible.

Fly tipping on the side of the road is cleared

by Bromsgrove District Council, at a cost to the council taxpayer, whereas the cost to clear rubbish left on private land and dumped over the fence or gate is borne by the farmer or landowner.

The council has a dedicated enforcement officer who investigates all incidents and is actively following up on information that might lead to a prosecution.

The recent incidents of fly tipping are not the odd bag of waste. Some may have been transported by a small van, most by a much larger vehicle.

10 Completely Bromsgrove

For a one-off incident, contact Bromsgrove District Council on 01527 881188 or report online at www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/ my-place/street-cleaning/fly-tipping.aspx

To report large scale illegal dumping, such as lorries dumping rubbish, and hazardous waste, contact CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, the Rural Crime Hotline on 0800 783 0137 or visit https://forms.theiline.co.uk/ ruralcrimehotline (select ‘Large-scale, industrial fly-tipping’ from the drop-down box.

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Bromsgrove District Council & Redditch Borough Council Normal Collection Day

Revised Collection Day

Tuesday 24th December

No Change

Wednesday 25th December Thursday 26th December Friday 27th December Tuesday 31st December

Monday 23rd December Saturday 28th December

Wednesday 1st January Thursday 2nd January Friday 3rd January

Monday 30th December

MATTRESSES

No Change No Change FROM

NOW ONLY ÂŁ59

No Change No Change

There are no more planned changes to collections throughout the season

PLEASE HAVE YOUR BINS OUT BY 7AM If we experience snow and icy weather and cannot get to you on collection day, please leave your bin out and we will return as soon as we can.

You can check our website, Facebook and Twitter for regular updates.

01527 881188 letswasteless.com

Completely Bromsgrove

11 

Sweet chestnut veteran tree photo by Eleanor Reast

Veteran tree in leaf Piper’s photo by Eleanor Reast

A helping hand L

ast year I wrote about our beautiful Piper’s Hill nature reserve, also known as Hanbury Woods, and the magnificent 240 or so veteran trees that are scattered throughout it. These stately sweet chestnuts and oaks grew up in a much more open landscape than the wood would have you believe; take a look at their branches and you’ll see that they grew outwards as much as upwards.

We’ve gradually been halo-ing around these trees to recreate their original growing conditions, removing the young beech trees in order to remove competition for light, water and nutrients. We’ll continue this work during winter but it will be more visible as it is being done as part of larger roadside works to remove diseased ash trees.

No doubt you’ve heard of ash dieback. It arrived in the UK in 2012 and has spread throughout the country. It’s been in Worcestershire for a few years and once ash trees are infected they can quickly die. At the Trust we take this very seriously but we don’t want to cut down every infected tree because there may be some that are resistant to the disease and they’ll be the ones that can regenerate ash in our woods for years to come. However, where infected trees are in highrisk locations we are removing those that we think pose a risk to the public.

Piper’s Hill photo by Nigel Hooton

12 Completely Bromsgrove

For those of you who know Piper’s Hill you’ll know that the B4091 runs through it. There are a significant number of trees along this busy stretch of road that are infected so, thanks to funding from Severn Waste Services through the Landfill Communities Fund, we will be undertaking work to remove

Sweet chestnut at Piper’s Hill photo by Brian Taylor

for veteran trees them. Even with regular safety inspections, ash dieback can cause large trees to suddenly lose limbs or to fall over; we can’t take any chances along the road but this does mean that, to many passers-by, the work will be very visible.

Ash dieback on coppice regrowth photo by Harry Green

Dieback on young Ash photo by Wendy Carter

Whilst we have the machinery on site, however, we’re taking the opportunity to create halos around the veteran trees in this area. We’ll also be taking the opportunity to create a diverse boundary of scrub that will provide more nesting and feeding opportunities for wildlife as well as helping to better protect the site from pollution from the road.

We’re monitoring our woodlands throughout Worcestershire and are taking things on a case-by-case basis. There are no direct replacements for ash, which is an important tree for many of Worcestershire’s woods, so we’ll be watching what happens and removing infected trees near paths and roads that pose a danger to our health and safety. Suddenly removing all ash trees would remove the opportunity of finding disease-resistant individuals and would shock a wood. At Piper’s Hill at least, the negative impact of a non-native disease has a more positive side effect of helping the veterans to survive for several hundred years to come.

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

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

Watch us on YouTube www.youtube.com/c/WorcswildlifetrustUK1 Completely Bromsgrove

13

Floral Round up!

Nigel’s circular design using anthurium

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ational demonstrator Nigel Wyles made a welcome return to Bromsgrove Flower Club in November.

Nigel, whose demonstration title was “Round in circles” created breathtaking arrangements using a variety of beautiful flowers, foliage and accessories. The arrangements were raffled off at the end of the meeting.

There were some wonderful arrangements in the flower arranging competition and the flower of the month competition was well supported.

Visit www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk or call Wendy Robertson on 01905 480571 for more details.

One of Nigels design using beautiful roses and pinhead protea flowers

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Add wonderful decorative touches to your home this Christmas

T

here is no greater symbol of the festive season than the Christmas tree with its cone-shaped look and glossy green foliage.

Norway spruce is the traditional tree and the one with that strong Christmas tree fragrance but it will drop its needles if it is in a warm place with little or no water.

Placing the tree within a small reservoir of water will help with needle retention.

More recently the Nordmann Fir has become increasingly popular and although the fragrance is not quite as strong its benefit lies in the fact that it doesn’t drop its needles, so if you’re planning on keeping your tree up for the extended festive period you may be better with this choice. The tree still needs to be kept away from a heat source such as radiators to retain its colour and its needles for a longer period.

Although popular on the continent, decorated trees only became fashionable here from Victorian times when Prince Albert brought with him from Germany the country’s tradition of a decorated Christmas tree in the house. We traditionally put our trees up in midDecember whereas on the continent they have the great festivity of the ‘bringing in of the tree’ on Christmas Eve when they also exchange gifts.

It has now become increasingly popular for us to have our decorated trees up for the whole of December.

Wagon House Gardens at Jinney Ring Craft Centre will have a great selection of freshly cut and potted Christmas trees and wreaths for you to choose from.

A wreath for your door is a wonderful decorative touch to welcome visitors in or to complete a room’s décor as it will add a feeling of warmth and excitement for the coming season. Wreaths are traditionally made from evergreens, particularly firs and holly, and used as the symbol of remembrance for the departed. Circular wreaths have no beginning or end, they represent the

16 Completely Bromsgrove

eternal nature of faith and gods never ending love, from a Christian perspective it also represents the unending circle of life.

This year, we will be demonstrating wreath making and will have a range of hand-made fresh wreaths of varying sizes and types. You can have your wreath made before your eyes or alternatively made for you whilst you shop.

Holly and ivy are brought into the home to celebrate the festival of the winter solstice and they can be used in wreaths, garlands or arrangements to represent victory over darkness, even in the darkest of winter.

Ivy needs to cling to a host plant for support and stays green throughout the winter. This led to the belief that it had mystical properties and it became a symbol of friendship, marriage and support.

The red berries of the holly signify the drops of blood Jesus shed at the crucifixion. For most of the 20th century our holly wreaths have been embellished with bows, ribbons and cones, but more recently dried fruit, nuts and cinnamon sticks have become increasingly popular.

Enjoy the best of the festive season.

Happy Christmas and new year.

Karl Strawbridge

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

Jobs for December & January Prune back summer growth on Wisteria in late January to three buds on each new branch.

Carry on pruning Roses, Fruit trees and fruit canes, like Raspberries and currants.

Make sure to feed the birds, encouraging them into the garden helps the gardens ecology and helps to reduce pests.

Remove old spotted Hellebore leaves in January, it will make new blooms more visible as they emerge in February.

Completely Bromsgrove

17 

Why it’s important to shop local this Christmas W

hen it comes to shopping and sourcing Christmas gifts and produce, bigger is always better – right? Wrong!

When consumers support local business owners, they can enjoy benefits that national chains often can’t provide.

We’ve compiled three reasons for supporting Bromsgrove’s independent businesses this festive season.

1. If you care about the environment, then buying out of season is a no-no. When you shop at your local butchers and greengrocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey.

2. Looking for something different? Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren’t available elsewhere.

3. Local businesses give a community its distinctive flavour. The combined presence of your town’s many local businesses makes it different from every other place in the country.

Completely Bromsgrove took a stroll around to check out some of the independent businesses who are bringing something different to the town centre.

Let’s begin in Worcester Road with Bromsgrove School of Music, which offers instrumental and vocal tuition and is also the ideal place to look if you’re considering buying an instrument.

KSH Flooring is a family run business, supplying and installing

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flooring solutions for the domestic and commercial sectors for more than 40 years. The experience and knowledge KSH have gained enables them to offer excellent help and advice. The store also sells lamps and gifts hand-made by co-owner Tash Hegenbarth.

Moving into the High Street, Nature’s Intention is a vegan friendly zero waste shop which sells a wide range of items from cereal, nuts and seeds to coffee. You can take the products away in your own containers to help reduce plastic waste and the real beauty is that you only buy as much as you need. Eco friendly nonfood items are also available.

The High Street is home to several independent businesses specialising in food and drink including Decanter Spirit, a cocktail bar and specialist drinks store specialising in all manner of spirits as well as wines and local/craft beers and ales.

Just off High Street is Church Street, home to The Bromsgrove Cobbler, which has been based in the town for 28 years and offers shoe repairs, key cutting, trophy engraving and e-cigs and vapes, while Mill Street houses familyrun Bromsgrove Fruit & Veg, the perfect place to pick up goodies for your Christmas feast.

Staying with the food theme let’s return to the High Street and Butcher’s Block, a family owned traditional butchers’ shop selling high quality and artisan meats. Trust them for your turkey or seasonal meat order.

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18 Completely Bromsgrove

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by Teresa Green Whatever items you’re looking for to fill Christmas stockings, town centre stores can help.

For clothes and accessories, check out Carter Esquire, an independent menswear retailer offering discerning customers the opportunity to buy classic and contemporary menswear fashion, and Lesley Ashworth Accessories, who stock a wide range of shoes and designer handbags plus purses, jewellery, scarves and fascinators.

Free local home deliveries available for larger purchases.

Moving on to The Strand you’ll find Cupitt, Bromsgrove’s longest established family jewellers who have built a reputation for quality jewellery and excellent service.

Midland Waterlife are suppliers of top quality, competitively priced aquarium, pond products and items which include aquarium plants, coldwater fish, pond liners, filters, pumps, UV units, hose and fittings, fish foods, lighting, ornaments, plastic plants, heaters, air pumps, power filters, decor plastic and natural, medications and spare parts for pumps.

Established in 1993 Artyfacts are a family run company run by brother and sister team Gavin and Sarah Dutton. They stock a wide range of artwork, ranging from original work by local artists to limited and open edition prints by well-known artists and a wide range of sport, music and movie memorabilia. They also specialise in all types of framing.

Shopping local at Christmas has benefits far beyond mere convenience. When you support local business owners, you get a better level of service and help to make your community a better place to live.

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Completely Bromsgrove

19

13/11/2019 11:22

RECIPE

Creamy mushroom chicken with Colcannon

Colcannon is one of Ireland’s best-loved potato dishes and one of the most versatile.

Serve it with grilled meats or dishes with plenty of sauce such as this one.

Serves 4 Preparation time: 20 minutes (plus marinating) Cooking time: about 40 minutes Per serving: Kcals: 537, Total fat: 29.4g, Saturated fat: 15.1g Method 1. For the Colcannon, boil the cabbage for 2-3 minutes or until tender.

Drain and mix with the potatoes and spring onions.

2. Melt half the butter with the milk and stir into the potato mixture.

Season with pepper and set aside.

3. For the chicken, mix the lime juice, soy sauce and honey, add the chicken, and marinate in the fridge covered with cling film for at least 1 hour.

4. Heat the oil in a large frying pan, cook the mushrooms for 5 minutes then remove. Drain the chicken and fry for 15 minutes or until cooked through, turning occasionally.

5. Remove the chicken and add the stock and any remaining marinade to the cooking juices. When bubbling, stir in the crème fraiche and return the chicken and mushrooms to the pan.

6. To finish the Colcannon, melt the remaining butter in another frying pan, add the potato mixture and fry until brown and crisp underneath. Turn the mixture over and fry for a further 5 minutes. Serve hot with the chicken.

20 Completely Bromsgrove

Ingredients Colcannon: 350g/12oz green cabbage, shredded 550g/1¼ lb potatoes, boiled and mashed 2 spring onions, trimmed and sliced 75g/3oz butter 3tbsp semi-skimmed milk Freshly ground black pepper Mushroom chicken: Juice of 1 lime 2tbsp Kikkoman Less Salt Soy Sauce 1tsp clear honey 4 chicken breasts, skinned if preferred 2tbsp sunflower oil 175g/6oz mushrooms, chopped or sliced 150ml/¼ pt chicken stock 4tbsp crème fraiche

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

149 Golden Cross Lane, Catshill, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B61 0JZ Tel: 01527 874526 “Constantly in the pursuit of excellence”

Eat, Drink and be Merry this Christmas

Completely

Bromsgrove

Duncombes Butchers

Wish all our readers and advertisers a wonderful festive period.

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We sell Christmas trees, turkeys, geese and home-reared Highland Beef

Place your Christmas meat orders now.

Visit the animals in our Christmas Stable.

We are open every day from 1st - 23rd December 10 - 6pm

Crafts, Farmshop & Tea room

Chadwich Manor Farm, Chadwich, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire.

B61 0QG Tel: 07866 616986 www.lizziesfarm.co.uk

Completely Bromsgrove

21

Advertisement Feature

Butcher’s Block reflect on busy year It’s been quite a year for Michelle and Lilith at Butcher’s Block.

The company were one of the six finalists in the independent retailer of the year category at the Birmingham Awards, but narrowly missed out on the top prize.

Lilith said: “We didn’t quite get it this year though the judges did tell us it was extremely close. When you think that the business that won had been established in the heart of the city for 17 years and we have only been trading for 15 months, that shows just how well we did to make it to the final six. It has pushed us to enter more awards next year.”

The ladies have already been busy taking pre-orders for their Christmas hampers, which range in price from £60 to £90.

Head butcher Michelle said. “This time last year was a turning point for us and our customers have been incredibly loyal since so we are expecting a very busy December. Please get in touch to place your order or for any advice on your festive fare.”

In the New Year, Michelle and Lilith will be closing the shop for a few days to have a well-earned break.

Michelle said: “We’re going to recharge our batteries for a few days as we

22 Completely Bromsgrove

haven’t had a break since we took over the business.

“In 2020 we’ll be implementing some exciting things. We’ve been planning on reducing our single use plastic dramatically for some time and will be reducing it by about 90% from January,” added Lilith.

“We’ll be swapping our single use plastic bags for paper and using more ethical carrier bags too. Quite a few customers bring their own plastic tubs to pack their shopping in and we’re encouraging others to do more. We’ll be rewarding customers who bring their own tubs for their shopping with a reward card and money off their shopping after five refills.

“We’re looking to launch a plastic tubs amnesty too. Everyone has a stack of plastic take away tubs that they never know what to do with. We’re happy to take them off people’s hands to be used as part of our commitment to reducing plastic waste.”

To keep up to date with the latest offers, specialist products and community initiatives, visit @ butchersblockbromsgrove on Facebook.

53 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AJ

Tel: 01527 570241

Follow us: www.facebook.com/ButchersBlock

Advertisement Feature

Canto Mando offers authentic Chinese dining

C

anto Mando was conceived in September 2019 due to the need for high quality, authentic oriental food in Bromsgrove.

The restaurant was founded by Angela and Matthew Lui, a Chinese descendant couple who previously owned a Chinese buffet restaurant in Burton upon Trent.

flavours. Everything is prepared by hand using the freshest ingredients to give you an authentic, natural Chinese dining experience.

Chinese cuisine is historically rich and flavoursome with different regions of the country offering a diverse range of traditional recipes.

The head chef has worked at many wellknown restaurants and is a respected chef in the Chinese food community. Previously head chef of the award-winning Wing Wah Buffet Restaurant in Birmingham, he has taken part in many culinary competitions across the UK as well as in the Netherlands and China.

Health is also an important factor with natural seasonings and fresh ingredients a key feature of Chinese cuisine.

Located in Worcester Road, Canto Mando offers a diverse range of Chinese dishes, combining Asian and western

Originally from Shunde, a district in China known for its food delicacies and exquisite dishes, the chef uses traditional recipes from this area to create the most unique and authentic flavours.

Trained at well-known Chinese culinary schools, the kitchen staff’s mission is to create unforgettable flavours for diners.

The main inspiration for the menu are Hong Kong street delicacies and traditional Chinese dishes. Also available are a range of Asian cuisines such as Korean and Japanese as Angela and Matthew’s objective is to help people rediscover the taste of real oriental food.

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CANTO MANDO BROMSGROVE Christmas and New Year open times: Closed 24th - 26th December Open as usual 27th - 29th December Closed 30th December Open New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day

44 Worcester Road Bromsgrove Worcestershire B61 7AE t. 01527 864 008 www.cantomandobromsgrove.co.uk m.facebook.com/CANTOMANDOBROMSGROVE/

Advertisement Feature

Offering a modern twist on great British food T

he Brook is a contemporary pub set in the hear t of the Worcestershire countryside which serves great food alongside real ales and fine wines within comfor table surroundings.

Proprietor and head chef Josh Giles said: “Our ethos is simple really. We take locally sourced, sustainable and great quality produce, treat it with the respect it deserves and let the flavours come through on the plate.

“With a strong seasonal lead philosophy, The Brook offers modern twists on great British cooking.

“Our menus are a celebration of our passion for local, seasonal produce, marrying them with modern and traditional cooking techniques.

“We love what we do as food is one of life’s great pleasures and to see our dishes put a smile on our guests’ faces is very rewarding,” Josh added.

24 Completely Bromsgrove

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Five Spice Restaurant lifts prestigious regional award

B

elbroughton-based Five Spice Restaurant was among 11 regional winners at the Bangladesh Caterers Association (BCA) Restaurant of the Year Awards 2019, held at the Park Plaza Hotel in London.

Now in its 14th year, the BCA Awards is regarded as the “Oscar night” of the curry industry and is attended by high profile guests. The co-hosts were Tasmin Lucia Khan, British film producer and TV news anchor, and Alexis Conran, radio presenter, actor and Celebrity Masterchef winner in 2016.

Winners, who were selected from hundreds of entrants from across the country, were judged on their innovation, ambience, presentation of food, hygiene standards and customer service.

Mr Miah, the manager of Five Spice Restaurant, said: “This award means a lot to us as it recognises

26 Completely Bromsgrove

the great food we serve and the contribution we are making to the industry.

“We have worked hard to earn this recognition and now we’d love more people to come and experience our food and restaurant.”

After being nominated by customers, head chef Abul Kashim took part in a cook-off at Hammersmith College in London with competing chefs challenged to cook their signature dish from fresh ingredients and within an hour. Abul cooked his favourite dish – duck curry with orange alongside foil-baked sea bass with baby spinach.

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

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Balancing the school fees equation P

rivate school fees rose by 3.7% from 2018 to 2019, according to the latest figures from the Independent Schools Council (ISC). This isn’t a one-off hike. School fees have risen by an average of 3.9% a year since 2010. This is a much faster rate than the rate of inflation as measured by the consumer price index, which was only 2.1% for April 2019.

The average independent day school charged £14,289 a year in 2018, according to the ICS. Of course, fees vary according to location and facilities. However, escalating fees do not appear to be putting parents off, with a record number of pupils now attending independent schools.

The question for parents is how to fund these rising fees.

Some families may be able to meet the costs out of earnings, but many parents will need to build up reserves. When planning to accumulate a school fees fund: 1. Plan ahead The sooner you start, the better chance you have of building a decent nest egg by whatever age you wish your children to enter the private system. Last-minute decisions may restrict your choices.

2. Make the most of tax-breaks The ISA allowance enables each parent to save up to £20,000 a year, in a fund that is free of UK tax on investment income and capital gains. ISAs can be used to build both cash savings and equity investments.

3. Look at the range of investment options If you have a savings horizon of 10 years or more, you might want to consider equity investments. But remember you will have to pay the fees, regardless of stock market fluctuations. To maximise returns and reduce risk, aim for a diversified portfolio of equities and bonds and keep charges to a minimum.

4. Get the rest of the family involved Grandparents – and other relatives – might be willing to contribute. Regular payments towards school fees (or a savings fund) might qualify for exempt treatment and reduce their eventual inheritance tax liability. Any one-off lump sum payments would normally be disregarded, providing the donor survives for a further seven years.

5. Ask about bursaries and scholarships Financial assistance with fees might be available. The ISC says the number of pupils being helped by these schemes has risen by 3% over the past year.

6. Remember to factor in insurance If you were too ill to work, for example, how would you continue paying school fees?

An income protection insurance policy may help ensure your child has continuity of education.

Factor in other costs When building a savings fund, factor in future fee increases and don’t forget to include ‘extras’ such as music lessons, school trips and sport activities.

Of course, parents whose children attend state schools may still want to consider these savings tips to help meet future higher education costs, which could include living costs as well as tuition fees..

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

PPM would like to wish everyone a happy Christmas and healthy 2020. Thank you for your local support throughout 2019.

28 Completely Bromsgrove

Private school fees are rising faster than the rate of inflation, creating financial challenges for parents, says Martin Pryor.

New name.

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Introducing Lifestyle planning.

Financial, Tax & Retirement Planning I Investment & Savings Advice Estate Planning I Mortgage & Protection Advice

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PPM Financial Planning, The Farmhouse, Pumphouse Lane, Blackwell, Worc. B60 1QN M: 07961 162818 E: martinpryor@ppmfinancialplanning.co.uk W: ppmfinancialplanning.co.uk PPM Financial Planning is a trading style of Pryor Portfolio Management Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 511176. www.fca.org.uk

Completely Bromsgrove

29 

THE WINTERFOLD WAY Independent Day School for boys and girls aged 0 - 13 “The School has the highest standards of pastoral care for its pupils” - Canonical Inspection 2019

INDIVIDUAL VISITS WELCOME Come and see us in action Call 01562 777234 www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk

Winterfold House School, Chaddesley Corbett, Worcestershire DY10 4PW

A message from our local MP “It was great to see Michele recently. It gave me the opportunity to say how much I enjoy ‘Completely Bromsgrove’ and to thank Michele, her team and all of the contributors for their hard-work all year round” “The magazine celebrates our local heritage, businesses and community groups and of course, our beautiful countryside. As someone who is extremely passionate about our local area, ‘Completely Bromsgrove’ is certainly an enjoyable read after a busy month of casework and parliamentary business” “I would like to wish my fellow readers well and I hope you have a pleasant festive period” Sajid Javid

30 Completely Bromsgrove

January Open Mornings

RGS Worcester Saturday 18 January 2020 9.00am - 12.30pm

RGS Dodderhill Saturday 25 January 2020 10.00am - 12.00noon

Come and join the RGS Worcester family of schools 01905 613391 | www.rgsw.org.uk

Dire Straits founder to school for fund

F

ormer Bromsgrove School pupil and founder member of Dire Straits, John Illsley went back to his roots in November for two sell out concerts held at the school’s state of the art performing arts centre, Routh Hall, to support Bromsgrove School Foundation.

The foundation raises vital funds to provide bursaries for Bromsgrove School and aims to foster a life-long relationship between the school and its alumni (Old Bromsgrovians), parents and friends.

Interviewed on stage by fellow Old Bromsgrovian and celebrated author Nicholas Evans, John recounted humorous anecdotes of his schooldays. It is rumoured that his housemaster at school told him that if he didn’t knuckle down and work for his A levels, he would be in dire straits.

As a pupil at Bromsgrove, John joined the school’s rock band and the bass guitar became his instrument of choice. He was Lance Corporal in the CCF and a house monitor in his final year.

Sport figured significantly in John’s school career - he was in the water polo team and gained his rugby colours whilst playing for the First XV. He was awarded the ‘Green-jacket cup’ in 1964, a year after he joined the school.

32 Completely Bromsgrove

member returns raising concerts

Nicholas Evans left Bromsgrove School to study law at Oxford University, graduating with first class honours.

He then worked as a journalist for three years on the Evening Chronicle in Newcastle-upon-Tyne before moving into television and producing films about US politics and the Middle East for weekly current affairs programme Weekend World.

After meeting a blacksmith in the far South West of England in 1993 who told him about people who have the gift of healing traumatised horses, Nicholas started work on his first novel. Published in 1995, The Horse Whisperer has sold around 15 million copies worldwide.

It has been a number one bestseller in around 20 countries and has been translated into 36 languages.

Nicholas has written four more novels: The Loop, The Smoke Jumper, The Divide and his latest book, The Brave.

The first set from John and his band didn’t disappoint with many classics from Dire Straits’ repertoire including Brothers in Arms, Money for Nothing and Sultans of Swing.

The second half opened with a further interview by former Dire Straits manager Paul Cummins who led the audience on a journey of the band’s life from their humble beginnings in South London to playing all over the world to millions of fans.

The evening was enjoyed by all who attended, many of whom left with signed memorabilia as a memento of the occasion.

Completely Bromsgrove

33

Sporty styles to suit everyone A

re you thinking of taking up a new sport or getting fit in the New Year? We all know the physical benefits of exercise are numerous, but many of us get put off even starting because we feel selfconscious about how we look. Here are our top sporty styling tips to help give you that boost of confidence to hit the ground running in 2020!

1. Exercise bras. Whatever the exercise, make sure you are wearing the right bra. Sports bras usually provide three levels of support; low, medium and high depending on your breast size and on the type of the exercise you are doing; for example low support may be required for yoga but high support for running and netball. Wearing the right fitting bra looks and feels better and can even improve how well we perform during exercise, whilst wearing the wrong bra can result in breast pain and even soft tissue damage. Sports bras are stylish these days so head to a reputable lingerie or department store, get measured and find out what type of support you need.

9. Running clothes. If you are a runner you will want leggings that stay in place, so you don’t have to yank your waistband up. Look for a handy inner pocket to pop your house key in. Choose a wind and waterproof jacket in your wow colour with the dual purpose of increasing your visibility on wintry days.

10. Headbands can help keep long hair in place, or just stop those stray hairs getting in your eyes whilst you exercise but can also replace dangly jewellery during sports. By having your most flattering colour next to your face; it will make your complexion look brighter and your eyes shine.

2. Yoga leggings. Wearing, comfy, supportive and flattering yoga leggings will make you feel more confident and energized. They need to have smooth seams, so they don’t rub and are not too restrictive. Test their flexibility and ensure they are properly opaque. Leggings come in a huge variety of lengths, colours and prints so have fun choosing a pair in your wow colours or a flattering pattern to reflect your personality. Sports leggings can look fantastic paired with cosy knitwear for relaxing around the house.

3. Swimwear. Don’t be tempted to just go for a dark muted colour thinking it will be more flattering. By choosing swimmers in your wow colours, your eyes will sparkle and people will be drawn to look at your face, so you don’t need to worry about any stretch marks (not that you should worry, lots of us have them, they are just another gorgeous part of what makes you, you!).

4. Base layers. Use natural fibres for your base layers.

Look to buy sports tops made from cotton or merino wool is brilliant at wicking away moisture, will keep you warm and is soft on the skin.

5. Choose tops at a length that flatters your proportions but be streamlined and avoid feeling bulky.

Try a playful pop of colour contrast between your layers.

6. Water bottle. Choose a reusable, environmentally friendly water bottle, such as BPA free plastic, bamboo or metal and opt for one of your favourite wow colours as your must-have sporty accessory.

7. Sports trainers. Get fitted for the right sports trainers for your foot and body architecture and the type of sports you intend to be doing and select a fabulous colour or gorgeous detail to express your personality.

8. Fashion trainers are on trend paired with jeans, dresses and skirts and there is an abundance of styles to choose from. Chunky soles can add a little height, but don’t go for extremes if you have shorter legs. If you have wider feet, make sure you choose something that is not restrictive but sleek may be better than super chunky soled trainers. Be sure to shop around. Flatforms may look fab on your friend, but you may be a sparkly sneakers sort of person.

34 Completely Bromsgrove

by Jane Brook www.houseofcolour/janebrook

WHY WOMEN SHOULD LIFT WEIGHTS

Ryland Centre, Bromsgrove

We know what you are thinking, “lifting weights will make me big and bulky.” Did you know strength and resistance training is one of the best ways to tone up, ignite your metabolism, improve posture and burn that stubborn fat.

Our female members felt the same as you on weight training, but as soon as we break down the stigma of lifting weights and incorporate just one session of total body strength training per week to their programme, they quickly notice a difference in body shape and posture (Yes, even once a week can have an impact!)

Not only this their physique feels less flabby, and even more so our female members feel better both mentally and physically. Here are our top reasons why women should incorporate weights into their training programme: Strength training elevates your metabolism Strength training raises excess post oxygen consumption (EPOC). This is important to all of us since this process can raise your metabolism for up to 24 hours after your workout concludes. This change allows the body to burn fat more efficiently throughout the day while securing sustained energy. Additionally, lean muscle improves posture, sculpts the physique, and protects our bones.

It can help you beat sugar cravings Another big advantage of working out with weights is improving glucose metabolism. Strength training boosts the number of proteins that take glucose out of the blood and transport it into the skeletal muscle.

This gives the muscles more energy and lowers overall blood-glucose levels. The body's insulin response will be lowered, which limits rapid blood sugar spikes. Not only is this important for beating cravings, but it also keeps our bodies from holding on to unnecessary fat.

Sitting all day? Strength training reduces the negative effects.

A strong body helps take pressure off the joints. When we sit for long periods of time, we lose activation in our core and glutes. This leads to added pressure in places like the lower back. In order to avoid this issue, it is incredibly beneficial to strengthen these muscle groups—that way these muscles can support the body at all times.

We would love to help you get on the right track, email info@rylandcentre.co.uk for a free consultation.

Health and Wellbeing

What you think, feel and say matters, because it becomes matter

Welcome to the third feature in my series on health and wellbeing.

S

ome years ago, I had a book published in which I used the analogy of a garden to compare our emotions, thoughts, physical and spiritual bodies. So, this last feature is going to be more holistic rather than focus on the physical aspects of the body.

If we take the Emotional Garden this is always connected to water. I see this garden full of ponds with beautiful water flowers and gentle waterfalls. When our emotions are in balance, we are compassionate to all things and we are open and loving. However, if we are negative in this garden, we start judging others, become frustrated with situations and we can become stubborn about issues. Visualising this in the garden; the ponds become stagnant and the waterfall becomes blocked. This is then a reflection of our emotions which have become blocked and not flowing freely within ourselves.

The Spiritual Garden is something many do not consider. This garden is full of colour, full of life from insects and worms to birds and bees. When we are in balance with this garden life is good, creative, we feel blessed and everything is happening easily. The negative aspect of this garden is the law of opposites. Bad instead of good, sick instead of healthy, poor instead of abundant. In this garden life becomes difficult and illness can manifest easily. Within the garden itself the flowers don’t flower and the wildlife is bare.

I see the Mental Garden full of different grasses, bamboos, ferns and cacti. It is lush and waves easily in the breeze. This is the garden of the mind, our thoughts and ideas. When this garden is healthy, we have reason to see what is good or not and we can see all sides of a situation and there is flexibility. In this garden we act rather than react to a situation. When this garden is out of balance the grasses become coarse and cutting the cacti become prickly and the bamboo become dry and brittle. This is what happens within us when our mental body is out of balance, our language becomes cutting, brittle and coarse. It is only by being aware of the words we use for different situations that we can be aware if we are positive or negative.

Finally, we have the Physical Garden. I see this garden as the veg patch and orchard giving a bounty of food to keep us healthy. In this garden our relationship with everything is in balance including family relationships, friends, colleagues, nations and religions. When this garden is in the negative the crops are rotten and blighted and weeds have a stranglehold on the plants.

It is our choice as to how we wish to see our gardens and how we wish to tend them. My mantra is: What you think, feel and say matters, because it becomes matter.

On this note I would like to send Seasons Greetings to all Completely Bromsgrove readers.

Stay well and healthy and if you want to know more about courses or products please contact me on colette@need4change.com

36 Completely Bromsgrove

by Colette Garside

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Tel: 01527 757343 Completely Bromsgrove

37

Remember loved ones at Candles by Candlelight M

uch-loved Christmas carols, music and readings will help residents remember a loved one during a new event held at Primrose Hospice.

Residents are invited to the first ever Carols by Candlelight at the hospice in St Godwalds Road, Bromsgrove, on Thursday, December 19th from 6pm.

People will come together in the hospice’s candlelit grounds to take part in the Christmas service featuring the Primrose Choir and readings by hospice chaplain Keith Judson.

Emma Williams, fundraising manager at Primrose Hospice, said: “It is the first time we have held Carols by Candlelight as part of this year’s Lights of Love campaign.

“We’re looking forward to inviting all of our community to the hospice grounds to share in this special event. It will hopefully give people the chance to remember someone special to them in the beautiful hospice grounds which will be lit by candles and fairy lights.

“There will be a chance for people to take a look in the completed remembrance books and take time to reflect on their loved one at this special time of year.”

Entrance is free but donations can be made which will go towards the care and support the hospice provides for people with life-limiting conditions and their families living in north east Worcestershire.

People can make a Lights of Love dedication to a loved one in exchange for a donation until December 7th. They do not have had to be cared for by Primrose Hospice to be included in the remembrance books.

To make a dedication or to find out more information about Carols by Candlelight, visit primrosehospice.org

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38 Completely Bromsgrove

Completely

Bromsgrove Our next issue is February ‘20 to book into this issue call Michele 07948 086870 before the 15th January ‘20 Do you need an electrician?

• Certified and insured • General electrical installation, maintenance and repair

• Domestic and commercial • Smart home security systems No job too big or small!

Contact Ben for your free quotation!

Tel: 07540237487 or info@iesolutions.co.uk www.iesolutions.co.uk

Watt Close 1964

T

he Watt Close 1964 Facebook page was originally launched to promote the School reunion last September 2018.

However it proved popular with a number of former Watt Close School pupils and we were asked to carry on with it. The page is open to everyone who attended the school before it was St John’s C of E., and we would welcome any experiences, photographs or memories of their time spent there.

AJJ ART & DESIGN Plans drawn and submitted for Local Authority Approval

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Personalised watercolour paintings for Christmas Presents of Property, Pets or Wedding Venue etc.

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14 Sherwood Road, Aston Fields Industrial Estate, Bromsgrove B60 3DR

Tiger tiger Taken from an original artwork

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victoriaajj@hotmail.com or

01527 368046 Completely Bromsgrove

39

Why you should get your cat microchipped

C

ats are regularly brought to Blue Cross rehoming centres and animal hospitals by people who think they are strays

If a cat is microchipped then we, or a vet or other animal rescue centres can contact the owner and reunite them with their much-loved pet quickly. Sadly, if a cat is not microchipped we are often unable to return cats because we have no way of contacting their owners.

While it isn’t compulsory by law as it is for dogs, Blue Cross advises cat owners to make sure their pet is microchipped as it gives you the best chance of getting them back if they go missing. Even if your cat wears a collar displaying your contact details make sure your cat is microchipped in case the collar falls off.

It is also vital to update the microchip company (there are several but the paperwork when you have your cat microchipped will tell you) if you move or change your telephone number. It doesn’t happen automatically so if your missing cat is found via the microchip the organisation that has scanned your cat won’t be able to let you know unless the microchip database has up to date contact details.

• Check online lost and found websites in your area and register your pet on a national lost pet database.

The Blue Cross pet rehoming centre in Bromsgrove rehomes hundreds of cats and dogs every year.

To contact the centre call 0300 777 1460 or email bromsgrove@bluecross.org.uk Visit www.bluecross.org.uk to see all the pets currently needing a new home or to make a donation towards their care.

MISSING

If your cat has gone missing, you can also try and find them in case they are trapped or hiding nearby. Cats are curious creatures and often sleep in unusual places so make sure you’ve searched thoroughly around your home and garden first.

You should also: • Contact the microchip database company immediately; • Put up posters in your local area with a photo of your cat and your contact details; • Contact vets and rescue centres in the area to ask if they have seen them; • Ask neighbours to check sheds, garages and cars;

40 Completely Bromsgrove

Completely black, shiny, short-coated male cat; microchipped, neutered, quite timid one year old.

He is not wearing a collar. He went missing on 13th September from near Bromsgrove School.

Shared on Spotted Bromsgrove.

Please call 01527 577897 if found.

Samantha named one of UK’s top CAREGivers Redditch resident Samantha Summers has been named one of the UK’s top CAREGivers.

H

ome Instead Senior Care is a home care provider which enables its elderly clients to remain in the comfort of their own homes. The care provider focuses on companionship-led care, sending regular ongoing CAREGivers and always having the minimum of a one-hour visit.

Every year the company runs its CAREGiver of the Year competition, a chance for ofďŹ ces across the country to celebrate the efforts of a CAREGiver who has made a difference to the lives of their clients.

Samantha, who works for Home Instead’s Redditch and Bromsgrove branch, was one of the ďŹ nal 13 nominees out of more than 200 Home Instead ofďŹ ces. She was nominated for her kindness, empathy and commitment, with one of her long-term clients describing her as “caring, encouraging and patientâ€?.

Managing director Annie Dixon-Dunn said: “It’s fantastic to have one of our CAREGivers recognised at this level and Samantha couldn’t be more deserving. She has made such a difference during her time here, is completely dedicated to her clients and loved by all.�

Samantha, who has been with the company since September 2018, was humbled by the accolade. She was drawn to joining the Home Instead team after wanting to make a difference locally. “I wanted to give something back to the elderly people as I really felt so passionate about the quality of care they should receive,� said Samantha. “It doesn’t matter how old you are or the illness you are suffering from, dignity and respect must always be maintained as though you are a family member.�

Home Instead Redditch and Bromsgrove, who are rated as Outstanding in Caring by regulatory body CQC, were recently named as one of the Top 20 home care providers in the West Midlands by review site homecare.co.uk If you would like to know more about Home Instead, call 01564 741620.

The best home to be in is your own Home Instead Senior Care Redditch and Bromsgrove Telephone: 01527 810 855 | www.homeinstead.co.uk/rb Rated Outstanding in Caring by the Care Quality Commission

)EGL ,SQI -RWXIEH 7IRMSV 'EVIÂŒ JVERGLMWI SJ½GI MW MRHITIRHIRXP] S[RIH ERH STIVEXIH 'ST]VMKLX ÂŒ ,SQI -RWXIEH

Completely Bromsgrove

41 

Christmases Charlotte of Pommes

Lemon Jelly

Ribbon Jelly

Jelly with Whipped Cream

Mixed Fruits

Strawberries

Tartlets

P

eople have been marking midwinter for far longer than the 2000-odd years since the birth of Christ. The Romans had the festival of Saturnalia, which is also called Bacchanalia, and in Norse countries there was the Yule Feast. In 340 AD Pope Julius I fixed the date of Christmas as 25 December.

For most of history Christmas was just one of many festivals celebrated throughout the year. The name itself – Christ mass – was not used until the 11th century.

Advent, from the Latin ‘adventus’ meaning ‘coming’, was a period of fasting followed by monks. German Protestants later took to marking their doors with chalk or lighting candles to count the days leading up to Christmas. German-born Gerhard Lang adapted the tradition by making a printed advent calendar with hidden sweets.

Christmas Plum Pudding

Mistletoe has been associated with fer tility since Pagan times.

Holly and ivy were said to guard against danger, but it was bad luck to bring them into the house before Christmas Eve. Christmas trees originated in Central Europe and by the 1500s they were being decorated with candles and later with tinsel.

Prince Albert is credited with introducing them to Britain.

The first Christmas carols were written in the Middle Ages. A carol meant ‘a dance in a ring’ and people started to combine traditional tunes with Christmas prose. A list of 25 ‘caroles of Cristemas’ was written as early as 1425.

Turning to food, Christmas pudding has its origins in plum pudding, for which recipes go back to the Middle Ages. The brandy poured over and set alight is supposed to represent the passions of Christ.

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of yesteryear Cherries

Compote of Pears

Trifle

Ices

Pineapple and Grapes

Open Tart Macedine of Fruits

Chantilly Basket

Mince pies have been eaten around Christmas since the 16th century. Originally, they were made of minced meat but in the 19th century the meat was replaced with dried fruit and spices.

Similarly, the Christmas cake was adapted from a fruit cake traditionally eaten on Twelfth Night.

Traditionally, pheasant, swan or goose was eaten for Christmas dinner. It’s only in the last 60 years that turkey has become popular. Before that, people simply didn’t have the money or the room to refrigerate a large bird.

Many of the elements we now associate with Christmas were only introduced in Victorian times. Christmas cards, crackers, stockings, paper decorations and, of course, Father Christmas or Santa Claus with his white beard and red costume are all Victorian inventions.

Boxing Day was originally a day when alms boxes in churches were opened and the money was distributed to the poor. Later ‘boxes’ were given to servants. Today, of course, it’s when we list our unwanted presents on eBay. How times have changed!

by Mike Sharpe

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Christmas comes to Bromsgrove with Artrix’s Winter Weekender Brrromsgrove might be feeling the winter chill, but it’s warm and festive at Artrix!

In a break from the tradition of the last few years, the venue is taking this year’s festivities inside to the warmth of the foyer and stage with a Winter Weekender full of festive family events, live music, food and good cheer.

The festivities begin from 11am on Saturday 7 December with a fun-filled family day inspired by the festive classic The Polar Express (U). Come dressed in your pyjamas and be whisked away on a magical adventure to the North Pole with a screening of the well-loved film and free hot chocolate for every child followed by festive music and activities in the foyer. Tickets cost £7 for adults, £5 for children or £20 for a family of four.

Later the same day, Artrix welcomes legendary folk collective Quill for their Christmas Concert. From 8pm, lead vocalist Joy Strachan-Brain heads up the seven-piece band in an eclectic mix of Christmas favourites. Expect stylish covers of well-known Christmas songs, Fairytale Of New York, Rocking Around The Christmas Tree and Happy Christmas (War is Over) plus original songs such as Grey Goose Call. Get ready for a fabulous night of music. Tickets for Quill’s Christmas Concert are £20 each.

On Sunday 8 December Artrix is screening latest romcom Last Christmas (Cert 12A) at 11am. Starring Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) and Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians), Last Christmas is a romantic comedy inspired by a George Michael beat. Kate (Clarke), harumphs around London, a bundle of bad decisions accompanied by the jangle of bells on her shoes. When she meets Tom (Golding)

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in a Christmas shop, her life takes an unexpected turn.

As London transforms into the most wonderful time of the year, nothing should work for these two. But sometimes, you gotta let the snow fall where it may, you gotta listen to your heart and you gotta have faith. Last Christmas features the music of George Michael, including the bittersweet holiday classic of the film’s title.

Audiences are encouraged to get into the festive spirit by sporting their very best (or worst!) Christmas jumpers. Tickets for Last Christmas are £8 each or £6 for concessions.

On the evening of Sunday 8 December Cara Dillon returns to Artrix with her Christmas show Upon A Winter’s Night at 8pm. Cara and her band will once again capture the mystery of Christmas with a collection of songs, ancient and modern. Tickets cost £23.50.

Throughout the Winter Weekender there will be festive music in the foyer and mince pies in the cafe.The merriment continues throughout December with a great mix of live theatre including Little Star Baby Show on 17 December and Santa’s Christmas Countdown on 23 & 24 December, along with All & Sundry’s Panto, Snow White from 14 December.

There will also be all the very best in festive films from the latest releases, including Frozen 2, to Hollywood classics Singing In The Rain and Calamity Jane. For full details of all events and the most up to date listings visit

www.artrix.co.uk

Avoncroft’s Candlelit Christmas Saturday 7th December, 7-10pm.

Prepare for Christmas in the traditional way at Avoncroft Musuem.

With the site lit by candlelight, get into the festive spirit with the sounds and flavours of Christmas past.

Costumed re-enactors will be preparing for Christmas in the historic buildings and entertainment includes fire juggling, Morris dancing, Punch & Judy, star gazing, a magician performing close-up magic and every kind of festive music from choirs to showman’s organ music and bell ringing.

There will also be a reindeer trail, miniature Santa Express rides & Father Christmas will be on site too!

There will be seasonal treats throughout the Museum, including mulled wine and cider, roast chestnuts, a hog roast, mince pies and doughnuts.

For tickets, visit...

www.avoncroft.org.uk v

Forthcoming Attractions Box Office 01527 65203

Online booking www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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Theatre company’s eco fable hits festive note

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new family eco fable, The Snow Dancer, is being performed at Fairfield Village Hall on Saturday 14th December.

Devised by Badapple Theatre Company, the play combines original songs and laughs aplenty with an environmental message.

Something in The Great Wood is awry.

The animals are desperate for sleep but with the onset of global warming, the weather is just too warm. Everyone is going around in circles and is sick of nuts before Christmas is even in sight. Something must be done. Our intrepid heroes - and their helpful humans - decide they must seek out the mysterious Snow Dancer if there is any chance of ever making it snow.

Badapple’s artistic director Kate Bramley said: “We always create shows that are lively, fun and appeal to all ages

but this Christmas - along with other partners at Staging Change - we are opening a discussion about what climate change means for our rural world. There won’t be any shortage of festive fun but hopefully there’ll be some discussion about our beautiful woodlands as well.”

Based in Yorkshire, the theatre company has spent the last 20 years performing original productions with professional actors in the smallest and hardest-to-reach rural venues and village halls.

The Snow Dancer starts at 3.30pm (doors open from 3pm). Tickets priced at £11 (advance £8.50) and £5 for U16s are available from Fairfield Café or can be reserved by phoning 07762 749943.

Events for all ages in Festive Fairfield

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airfield village is hosting a wide range of events to celebrate the Christmas season and all are welcome to join in the fun.

Saturday 30th November from 10.30am to 3pm: Christmas Fair at St Mark’s Church Come along for craft stalls, homemade cakes, tombola, raffle and refreshments.

Wednesday 11th December at 2.15pm: The Man Who Invented Christmas, Fairfield Village Hall A festive comedy drama in which Charles Dickens, struggling with debt, begins work on a new book entitled A Christmas Carol. Tickets cost £3 each.

glass of bucks fizz or a Bloody Mary for an extra £4.95.

Friday 27th December at 10am: Post-Christmas Ramble Walk off the Christmas excess followed by refreshments at the Swan Inn, where the two-hour walk will start and finish.

Wear suitable clothes and footwear.

Dogs on a lead are welcome.

Wednesday 18th December – Carols Around the Christmas Tree, Fairfield Village Hall Free mulled wine and mince pies

Tuesday 31st December from 8pm to 12.30am: New Year’s Eve Family Party, Fairfield Village Hall Music, games and buffet. Bring your own drinks and glasses. Tickets cost £5 for adults, U16s free.

Saturday 21st December at 9.30am: Breakfast with Santa, Fairfield Village Hall Full cooked breakfast, gifts for the children and quality time with Santa.

Tickets cost £11.95 per adult and £9.95 per child. Add a mini bottle of prosecco,

Friday 3rd January at 11am: Boss Baby, Fairfield Village Hall A suit-wearing, briefcase-carrying baby pairs up with his seven-year-old brother to stop the dastardly plot by the CEO of Puppy Co. Tickets cost £3 each. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

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Christmas in St John’s Church

B

romsgrove’s Parish Church of St John the Baptist welcomes all to enjoy special services in the lead up to Christmas and over the Christmas period. Join Rev Ray Khan and the team at St John’s for traditional celebrations throughout December.

Sunday 1st December at 6pm - Darkness to Light Service A beautiful and moving service with the choir. The service begins with the church in darkness and a melody of voices. As the service progresses candles are lit and the darkness fades away.

Wednesday 11th December at 6.30pm - Community Carol Service Join the congregation at St John’s for a Christmas Carol Service featuring Fairfield First School and the Primrose Hospice Choir. The carol service is hosted by Bromsgrove District Council Chairman Cllr Rod Laight and his consort. Come along and join in the well known and loved carols.

Saturday 14th December - Carol Singing in the High Street A chance for some open air carol singing in Bromsgrove.

Sunday 15th December at 5pm - Christingle Service Christingle is a candle-lit, festive celebration perfect for bringing families and communities together. The celebration is named after the Christingles that are lit during the celebration.

Christingles are made from an orange decorated with red tape, sweets and a candle.

Sunday 22nd December at 6pm - Nine Lessons and Carols A service of nine Bible readings (or lessons), that tell the Christmas story, with one or two carols between each lesson. Join the choir of St John’s for favourite carols Once in Royal David’s City, Oh come all ye faithful and many more.

Christmas Eve, Tuesday 24th December at 5pm - Scratch Nativity Calling all budding Marys, Josephs, kings and angels! Come along and join in a nativity play from scratch. Everyone welcome.

Christmas Eve at 11.30pm - Midnight Mass Be in St John’s as the clocks strike midnight and we welcome in Christmas Day with words and song.

Christmas Day, Wednesday 25th December at 9.15am - Christmas Holy Communion Service at St Andrew’s Church, Lyttleton Avenue, Charford.

Holy Communion at our sister church on Christmas Day. Christmas Day at 10.45am - Christmas Family Service at St John’s Church. Our family service takes place in St John’s. All are welcome for the pre-lunch service where we gather to wish each other a Merry Christmas.

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Feeling cheeky?

Banish the January Blues. You are invited to an evening with

Banish the January Blues. You are invited to an evening with

B

romsgrove Men In Sheds seeking to Bromsgrove Men are In Sheds banish the ‘January Blues’Guests by inviting members & Special ! of the community along to a Charity Fundraising Friday 24th January 2020 Evening at Stoke Prior(7– Sports 10pm)& Country Club Tickets on Friday 24th January (7-10pm).

Ticket2020 Price includes a ‘Fish* & Chips Supper’

Bromsgrove Men In Sheds & Special Guests !

Friday 24th January 2020 (7– 10pm)

£10

Ticket Price includes a ‘Fish* & Chips Supper’

As their alter egos ‘The Cheeky Beggars’ (i.e. not quite ‘The Peaky Blinders’) the Shedders are hosting an evening of entertainment (involving local musicians, along with a comedian) to help raise funds for this much valued Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest group.

Ticket prices are £10 (which includes a Fish & Chips * Sausageare and available).

Vegetarian Supper Options also available Supper – alternative options 

* Sausage and Vegetarian Supper Options also available

Proceeds from this Fundraising Evening will be used to support Age UK BRWF’s

For Tickets more please contact Jo Hughes Bromsgroveand Men In Sheds.information, For Tickets and more information contact: at AgeJoUKBRWF 01527 868855/Email Jo.Hughes@ Hughes onTel 01527 868855 / e: Jo.Hughes@ageukbrwf.org.uk visit theand Shedders ageukbrwf.org.uk or pop oralong visitat:the Shedders Unit 1, Metal & Ores Industrial Estate, Stoke Prior, B60 4JZ www.ageuk.org.uk/brwf/activities-and-events/men-in-sheds/ Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest Registered Office: 51 Windsor Street, Bromsgrove, B60 2BJ. Registered Charity No. 1165891

Tickets

£10



Proceeds from this Fundraising Evening will be used to support Age UK BRWF’s Bromsgrove Men In Sheds. For Tickets and more information contact:

Jo Hughes on 01527 868855 / e: Jo.Hughes@ageukbrwf.org.uk or visit the Shedders at:

Unit 1, Metal & Ores Industrial Estate, Stoke Prior, B60 4JZ Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest Registered Office: 51 Windsor Street, Bromsgrove, B60 2BJ. Registered Charity No. 1165891

Peaky Blinders L

HAS (Lickey Hills Arts Society) next meeting will be on the Saturday 7th December, it will be a short AGM, followed by a talk.... Peaky Blinders and a quiz followed by a raffle and refreshments. The members theme painting will be ‘Winter Painting’.

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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Congratulations to David Dolphin, November’s winner for the pen and wash painting theme.

Local heroes launch Webbs’ Christmas 2019 Ice Rink!

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ocal heroes and their families enjoyed a VIP event hosted by Webbs of Wychbold, marking the official opening of its Christmas Ice Rink on Friday 1st November.

This is the second year that the award-winning garden centre has opened its doors early to inspiring individuals nominated by members of the community. Heroes of all ages were joined by their families and enjoyed a warm welcome, complimentary refreshments and entertainment as the very first guests to skate on the ice this year.

Ed Webb, owner of Webbs Garden Centres, said: “It truly is a magical time of year and what better way to start the season than with a community event for local heroes. It was a real pleasure to welcome such inspirational individuals who always go above and beyond to help those they love.”

Webbs of Wychbold’s Real Ice Rink is open seven days a week through to Sunday 5th January 2019.

Each session runs for 45 minutes so you can enjoy the magic of the season skating on ice and then sit back and enjoy a hot chocolate and mince pie in the restaurant - all under one roof! Tickets are priced from £5 and everyone is welcome to take a spin on the ice with skate aids, children’s skates and wheelchair access. Book your tickets now at www.webbsdirect.co.uk/ice-rink/ With free parking, a schedule of complimentary themed children’s entertainment planned throughout the festive season and fully licensed on-site restaurant, Webbs is a one stop Christmas shop. For more details visit www.webbsdirect.co.uk/christmas/

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NEW Junior Ravens do West Midlands proud H

aving played in several rugby league festivals this year and parading around Wembley before the Challenge Cup Final, North East Worcestershire Ravens Juniors recently represented the West Midlands in an origin series against the East Midlands.

The two match rugby league series was played over in Derbyshire and most recently at the Ravens’ home ground of Hopwood Park. The West Midlands put in very creditable performances in winning both matches. With several different players successfully opting to attempt conversions, the West Midlands’ points score became even higher. The last match owed much to the West Midlands’ defence which kept the East Midlands at bay. Easts showed massive game improvements since the last encounter and were rightly credited for their efforts.

West Midlands coaches, Jason Spafford, Josh Liggett and Lee Knight praised all of the players during the

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after match refreshments and the East Midlands coaches presented medals to all participants who played the games with tremendous sporting and respectful behaviour.

West Midlands would like to thank all the players, families and sponsors Cedar Invest, Focal Image and MSP, for their generous support, and look forward to their next stages of development next season.

NEW Ravens play mixed indoor touch rugby every Wednesday evening from 7.30pm at Bournville College in Longbridge. All welcome with or without experience. Further details from newravens.co.uk or contact Gail on 07515020844.

Photos by David Besley

Mixed results for Bromsgrove Sporting A

nybody watching Bromsgrove Sporting will be aware that this season has been somewhat topsy-turvy and recent results were no exception.

results for Bromsgrove Sporting Barwell were despatched 3-1 away in the league only forMixed Sporting to lose at home Anybody watching Sporting will be aware that this season has been somew 7-2 to the same team in the FA Trophy a week later. That was followed byBromsgrove an 8-0 win results were no exception. at Leiston, who at the time were showing signs of improvement. weregoal despatched 3-1 away in the league only for Sporting to lose at home 7-2 to Coalville Town edged Sporting out of the League Cup byBarwell the odd and there a week Thatto was followed by an 8-0 win at Leiston, who at the time were s will be no double against the fast-improving PeterboroughTrophy Sports wholater. raced a 3-0 improvement. half time lead. The Rouslers got two back but could not find the equaliser in the most Coalville Town edged Sporting out of the League Cup by the odd goal and there will be n entertaining match of the season so far. improving Peterborough Sports who raced to a 3-0 half time lead. The Rouslers got two Manager Brendan Kelly has been beset by injuries with six players out. The squad equaliser in the most entertaining match of the season so far. has been boosted by the arrivals of Lewis Chester from Bedworth United, Gift Mussa Brendan Kelly has been beset by injuries with six players out. The squad has be from Leamington, Daniel Platt from Hednesford Town and Manager Harry Higginson on his Lewis Chester from Bedworth United, Gift Mussa from Leamington, Daniel Platt from He second loan spell from Kidderminster Harriers.

Higginson on his second loan spell from Kidderminster Harriers. by Phil Baker With the fixture list looking quite busy until the New Year, all players will get game time.

With the fixture list looking quite busy until the New Year, all players will get game time.

Sat 30th Nov

3:00 p.m.

H

Royston Town

Tues 3rd Dec

7:45 p.m.

H

Kings Langley

Sat 7th Dec

3:00 p.m.

A

Stratford Town

Sat 14th Dec

3:00 p.m.

A

Needham Market

Tues 17th Dec

7:45 p.m.

H

Redditch United

Sat 21st Dec

3:00 p.m.

H

AFC Rushden & Diamonds

Thu 26th Dec

3:00 p.m.

A

Alvechurch

Wed 1st Jan

3:00 p.m.

H

Stourbridge

Sat 4th Jan

3:00 p.m.

A

Biggleswade Town

Sat 11th Jan

3:00 p.m.

H

Tamworth

Sat 18th Jan

3:00 p.m.

A

Kings Langley

Sat 25th Jan

3:00 p.m.

H

Coalville Town

Sporting’s under 18s team are suddenly finding a rich run of form Sporting’s under 18s team are suddenly finding a rich run of form with successive wins a with against Stratford Town and 5-0with winboth against 5-0successive win against wins Halesowen Town.

The Colts teams areabusy league and cup ma Halesowen Town.

Colts to teams are busy with both league and poor weather hasThe intervened disrupt some fixtures. cup matches though the recent poor weather has intervened to The shop is well-stocked with replica shirts, scarves, hats and other gifts and is open on disrupt some fixtures. flexi-tickets make good presents. Visit www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk for additional sho The shop is well-stocked with replica shirts, scarves, hats and other gifts and is open on match days. Books of ten flexi-tickets Christmas or email hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk with any enquiries. make good presents.Visit www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk for additional shop openings in the run up to Christmas or email hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk with any enquiries.

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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