Completely Bromsgrove issue 19

Covid 19 Issue

Completely

May/June 2020

Bromsgrove

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Welcome

W

elcome to the joint May/June issue of Completely Bromsgrove.

Firstly, I hope that all our readers are keeping safe and well during these testing times.

Hopefully, this edition will give you a few hours of light relief.

Wendy Carter of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust thanks Richard Clifford for his findings in his garden in Bromsgrove and what he has captured whilst on his daily walk in the area. Our latest Woman in Business is Lesley Ashwor th, who tells us all about her passion for delivering excellent customer service.

Many people, companies, schools and businesses across Bromsgrove have given their time helping with the making of PPE and bags for keyworkers on the frontline to put their clothes into when they arrive home, helping to keep everyone safe and well.

This issue features many uplifting ar ticles and one that I would like to mention focuses on Bromsgrove Community Suppor t, which Georgia Oakes formed on Facebook. What an inspiration Georgia is. We are fortunate to have so many wonderful caring people within our community.

Until the Government advises us otherwise, please stay home, stay safe, save lives and protect the NHS. .

Very best wishes,

Michele Ford

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Contents 5 6 7 8 10 12

A Council Statement Age UK on Covid-19 B’grove Community Support Worcestershire Wildlife Trust Gardening Eco-friendly Kitchens

14 15 16 18 20 21 22 23

Women in Business Sewing for the NHS B’grove School help NHS Recipe Butchers Block Health and Wellbeing Community Spirit Basement Project

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Church at Home History on the Canals Scouting Adventures Court Leet Thanks to our NHS Tardebigge School Puzzle Page B’grove Sporting F.C.

From us at all at Completely Bromsgrove:

THANK YOU NHS!

Sales: Michele Ford Tel: 07948 086870 Tel: 07948 086870 Email: michelebromsgrove@outlook.com

4 Completely Bromsgrove

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.

A statement from our local Council

C

ouncil Leaders and Senior Officers at Bromsgrove District Council are still working with key agencies as the Coronavirus pandemic continues.

In March the Council responded to the Prime Minister’s lock-down by closing the Parkside offices to the public and reviewing all of its services in line with Government advice.

Council Leader Karen May said: “I am really proud that we responded to the Government’s lock down, closing our buildings and enabling most of our staff to work from home while still maintaining our valuable services.”

The main aim was to maintain frontline services like waste collections and planning services. And while Shopmobility closed its doors and the garden waste service suspended, extra resources were ploughed into areas such as benefits, Council Tax and small business support.

“And of course we still carried out Council business as usual with Members meeting virtually over Skype. These unprecedented times saw the closure of the much-loved Artrix as it became insolvent, and as landlord we are looking into how this building can be utilised, with commercial success, in the future.”

Senior Officers are still carrying out multi-agency teleconferences to ensure that the messages coming out from the Council are consistent on a County, Regional and National level. The authority’s website and social media have been successfully used to disseminate and share these messages especially the social distancing guidelines which are imperative if people are going to enjoy its parks and open spaces for their daily exercise.

“I am delighted that our Garden Waste service will be reinstated on May 5 as I know a lot of residents have been keeping busy tending their lawns during lockdown.”

“Finally I want to reiterate how proud I am that this District has pulled together to support its communities, vulnerable residents and key workers. Well done Bromsgrove!”

For more information on the Council’s services and the latest updates visit bromsgrove.gov.uk/coronavirus

Completely Bromsgrove

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Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest

Age UK BRWF’s CEO, Sam Humphray

Age UK BRWF CEO, Sam Humphray, talks about how the current Coronavirus crisis is giving us all a lesson on ‘Community’

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think that it would be fair to say that our communities have become very different places, and that all of our lives have all undergone some considerable changes in recent weeks. At the time of writing, we are still in the midst of lockdown but, even if the current restrictions are changed, it is likely that most vulnerable in our community will be reading this edition of Completely Bromsgrove whilst continuing to be in social isolation.

As a local charity, providing support and services for older people across North Worcestershire, Age UK BRWF’s specialist knowledge, expertise and practical support services have never been in such demand as they have been these last few weeks, as we all strive to do our best to get through the current crisis.

important for those in later life to feel connected to their community and improve their wellbeing. Whilst the current ‘neighbourliness’ that we are experiencing is something to be celebrated, we need to look at how we keep it going for the duration of this crisis and beyond, as we adapt to the challenges and opportunities of demographic changes.

Whilst these are stressful and worrying times for us all, I have been incredibly heartened by all of the offers of help and support that we as a charity have received, as well as the various groups and initiatives that have sprung up across North Worcestershire - like all challenges, Coronavirus has also shown what is possible when we come together to solve problems and support one another.

Like all local charities, these are uncertain times for Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest (a significant proportion of our income to fund our local work comes from our charity shops – their closure is having a significant impact upon our finances), however I hope that this is an opportunity for us all to re-assess and come together to support our neighbours and our communities in the longer term, so that the next time we undertake a survey, a majority of our older people respond that they ‘do feel connected’ and that they ‘do feel valued’.

At Sajid Javid’s Pensioners Fair in February, in partnership with Bromsgrove’s Ageing Well Group Sub-Group, we circulated an initial questionnaire as part of our work to help create more ‘Age Friendly Communities’. As part of the responses to the questionnaire, only a third of the 150 people that took part said that they felt that older people are valued as members of their local communities.

Social distancing is bringing our communities closer and it has highlighted how intergenerational relationships are

6 Completely Bromsgrove

To find our more about Age UK BRWF’s support and services, and how you can get involved and support the charity (through volunteering , supporting its charity shops and/ or fundraising) please visit www.ageuk.org.uk/ brwf/ or contact Jo Hughes ( Tel 01527 868855/ Email Jo.Hughes@agukbrwf.org.uk)

Our local hero Georgia

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eorgia Oakes started the Facebook group ‘Bromsgrove Community Support’ prior to lockdown on the 14th March due to her having her nan staying with her.

Georgia felt that there would be a lot of people who would struggle to undertake their usual tasks such as shopping and collection of prescriptions, and within 24 hours of launching the Facebook page the group had accumulated over 1000 members, to date, there are now nearly 5,000 members.

Georgia said, “The response has gone from strength to strength and we have a dedicated free phone line for those who are not on social media or have access to the internet. We are collecting shopping and prescriptions and also providing people with a listening ear!”

“The response to volunteering has been phenomenal and we have over 70 volunteers working across Bromsgrove 7 days a week.”

“We have a support Bromsgrove website www. supportbromsgrove.com the support group has also partnered with BARN (Bromsgrove and Redditch Network), Basement Project and local food banks.

We are all working together to ensure Bromsgrove is supported through these testing times.”

“We have recently had a volunteer, Alan Horton, who has been with us from the start delivering PPE to local care homes and hospitals!”

“The Facebook group has been a brilliant place to share information and support each other.”

The Community Support group also has a fund raising page running www.gofundme.com/f/ bromsgrove-community Anyone who would like to donate please feel free as they are offering this amazing support through volunteers and it’s all free. The money raised will go back to the community once this is all over!

In addition, Georgia is also doing a weekly quiz each Sunday for members which she says has been going really well and has been a lot of fun.

She has also been live streaming her DJ skills via

the Facebook page as well, which she has really enjoyed!

The Bromsgrove Community Support group have been getting so many calls from people just to say thank you! And along with the rest of Bromsgrove, Completely Bromsgrove would also like to say a big thank you to Georgia and all the volunteers for their great work and dedication in such trying times.

Finally, Georgia just wanted to say: “We will help anyone!”

People who do not have internet access can call the freephone number 0800 086 2560 or 01527 306490 to ask for help and support.It’s open from 8am to 8pm.

“Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community” Completely Bromsgrove

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by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

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Doorstep Wildlife W

hat odd times we’re living through. Whether in your gardens or daily exercise routes I’m sure that, like me, many of you will have been taking comfort in the natural world carrying on as normal whilst our society has been turned on its head. Perhaps this has given you pause for thought, time to reflect on the wild happenings in your Bromsgrove patch?

Certainly for many people that we’ve been chatting to through our digital channels – social media and emails – they’ve been doing exactly that. Nature has brought them comfort and many have noticed wildlife in their gardens that they’ve never spotted before or taken a bit more time to notice the trees and plants in their local area.

Take Bromsgrove resident Richard Clifford (@ Rich_Clifford), for example. In the absence of being able to go to some of his favourite places further afield, he’s been keeping a close eye on the insects using his garden and keeping a watchful look out for wildlife on his daily walks. Even when he’s been indoors he’s been letting nature inspire him by creating artwork of one of his favourite butterflies and he’s invested in one or two new books to help him identify what he’s been finding.

The photos used to illustrate my piece in this issue are all his and all from his local patch.

It’s difficult to say whether our actions have had an impact on wildlife. We took the decision to close our nature reserves because it was becoming impossible to ensure social distancing was taking place so perhaps some of the wildlife there has had respite from human visitors. Local peat-free and organic nurseries have been offering deliveries so maybe keen gardeners have been able to plant up for pollinating insects. Other gardeners will have taken the opportunity to tidy their patches – removing ‘scruffy’ but important habitats or disturbing

nesting birds by trimming hedges and trees. A drop in pollution levels will certainly have helped us all.

Whatever you’ve been up to and however long this goes on for, please take a moment to head outside where you can safely do so, breathe in, listen to the birds and the bees and take some time to notice the natural world. Then why not join us on social media to join in the #DoorstepWildlife conversations and visit our website for plenty of videos, activities and games to keep you and your families connected to nature www. worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/doorstep-wildlife Take care and stay safe.

Keep up to date with us: www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/worcestershirewildlifetrust Follow us on Twitter @WorcsWT Watch us on YouTube www.youtube.com/c/WorcswildlifetrustUK1 Photos by Richard Clifford

Opposite page: Top left:: 7 spot ladybird, Top right:Yellow Dung Fly Centre: Eristalis Pertinax Bottom left: Muslin Moth Bottom right: Dark-edged Bee-fly. This page: Orange Tip Completely Bromsgrove

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GARDENING

Sensational Salvia!

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alvias are a fascinating range of plants which offer such a variation of colour, shape, foliage and habit, from the hardy microphylla and patens varieties through to the half hardy greggii type that are smaller growing, some with highly aromatic varieties.

Salvia ‘Hot lips’ is classified as half hardy and it’s true that it will struggle with long severe cold spells in winter, however it should weather most winters without problem. Originating in Mexico and south America it is a fairly recent introduction to Europe, with its distinct profusion of bi colour red and white flowers that resemble a pair of lips, but its bushy aromatic foliage also adds a charm to the garden when gently brushed past along a path releasing a fine blackcurrant fragrance. This showy ornamental sage is perfect for a sunny cottage garden border with a long flowering season from June through to the start of winter. With such a long blooming season it is particularly useful in the garden.

This salvia thrives in full sun in well drained soils but will tolerate partial shade easily.

Salvia nemorosa ‘caradonna’ is also a favourite of gardeners not only because it is tough but because of its unique stunning vertical spires of rich violet blue flowers appearing from late spring they make an attractive accent in the garden and are a real magnet for the butterfly. Salvia ‘Amistrad’ is particularly floriferous bearing unusually large deep purple flowers with almost black supporting stems extremely attractive to bees and again if deadheaded regularly that will encourage flowers until the autumn. This variety however will need protection in the harshest of winters. Salvia ‘Wendys wish’ will grow up to 1m tall with red stems, pale olive green leaves and abundant citrus scented rich pink flowers, simply adorable and so so different.

Salvia greggii is a dwarf but bushy plant with simple lipped flowers from red, pink, yellow or violet flowers in terminal racemes but by far my favourite is Salvia ‘patens’ with its intense blue flower perfect for the mid to back of the border position, it is sensitive to hard frosts and does benefit from some support as it is one of the taller Salvias. That said it is worthy of a spot in any garden.

As a precaution they can be dug up and stored like a Dahlia as a safeguard. Wagon House Gardens at the Jinney Ring Craft Centre have a great range of Salvias from early June. Choose from annuals used in bedding schemes to the hardy and half hardy woody types, they are so easy to propagate from cuttings and all salvias have the added benefit that they do not suffer with pest and disease issues.

If your looking for something just a little different then why not consider the delightful salvia.

Karl Strawbridge

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

Jobs in the garden for early summer Protect tender plants from late frosts, use fleece if necessary Plant out summer bedding late May or early June. Sow peas and lettuce Keep on top of weeds, hoe regularly as they will steal the nutrients Plant out Brussels sprouts, cabbage, marrows and runner beans Deadhead roses this will help get more flowers on repeat flowerers

10 Completely Bromsgrove

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greenthumb.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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Make your kitchen W

ith an increasing awareness of the need to protect the Earth’s natural resources, more of us are searching for sustainable ways to update our homes. Consider the following ‘green’ solutions for your own climate conscious kitchen.

Boiling Water Taps More energy efficient than a kettle and, arguably, more cost effective in the long run, boiling water taps are becoming a must have in many new kitchens.

Quooker’s latest innovation, the ‘Cube’, also provides filtered, chilled and sparkling options, removing the need for anymore plastic and glass water bottles. The company will recycle used canisters too, which can be sent back free of charge.

Recycled Materials British based manufacturer Daval has recently launched the Renzo cabinet collection which has been dubbed as the kitchen with a conscience and one that builds a better future. Doors are made from 100% recycled materials, with a guarantee that no trees have been sacrificed in order to create this exciting and unique product. The range is made from items such as pallets, fruit boxes and existing furniture but, aesthetically, will compete with the most luxurious of modern kitchens.

Lighting Kitchen lighting needs to work on many levels. It should be bright enough for food preparation, but soft enough for relaxing, kitchen dining. It must be practical yet complement the style of the room at the same time. And, of course, it should be energy efficient.

With traditional bulbs, research shows that only 5% of the electricity they use is actually converted into light.

Instead, much is wasted on the heating of the filament, which in turn gives off that yellow tinge. Swap

12 Completely Bromsgrove

these for ultra-efficient LEDs, and whilst the initial investment is higher, your new lighting will last up to ten times as long, with considerable cost savings.

Less waste New developments in refrigeration are having a direct impact on reducing waste, by keeping our food fresh for longer. Siemens’ hyperFresh technology is designed to store items at the ideal temperature and humidity with intelligent drawer design and the ability to cool food up to 40% faster. Whilst we’re on the subject of food, buying locally not only reduces carbon footprint but also helps to support small, independent businesses.

Dishwashers Research suggests that if used efficiently, dishwashers can be significantly cheaper than running your tap while hand-washing your dishes. According to The Energy Saving Trust, one average dishwasher cycle would cost the same in energy and water as heating six washing-up bowls of water in the sink or running the hot tap continuously for nine minutes.

Induction cooking With induction hobs you can prepare your favourite dishes quickly and easily, helping you get dinner on the table in less time. Which? found that some models can heat 1.5 litres of water to 90°C in around four minutes. That’s more than twice as fast as most gas or electric cookers. Induction cooking is also safer and more efficient because heat is generated instantly in the induction stove and vanishes just as quickly when

Advertisement Feature

more eco-friendly

The Quooker Cube

you switch off. If something boils over, it can’t burn onto the glass ceramic surface because the material hardly gets hot at all.

Selling your old kitchen Providing your old cabinets are fully functional, you should be able to sell your existing kitchen online, either through Ebay or a dedicated used kitchen specialist. Save space in landfill and increase your budget for your new project at the same time.

All products mentioned in this feature are available from AK Fitted Interiors. For further information please email enquiries@ akfittedinteriors or visit www.akfittedinteriors.co.uk

The Renzo Completely Bromsgrove

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Hats, fascinators, clothes, sandals and handbags

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roud to be one of an increasing number of independent business owners in Bromsgrove town centre is Lesley Ashwor th.

Lesley, who also has stores in Evesham and Solihull, took time out of her busy schedule to chat to Completely Bromsgrove about her business background, her passion for providing high quality and distinctive clothing and excellent customer service and what continues to drive her.

After many years of working in operations, Lesley was keen to make a change and started looking for businesses to buy in the West Midlands.

“It was by accident and not part of a plan,” she admitted.

“My first shop in Evesham was an existing business which I redeveloped and grew. I had a vision for Bromsgrove - the right opportunity arrived so I seized it.”

Lesley Ashworth Accessories opened at 65 High Street in October 2005 and initially sold designer handbags before diversifying into footwear, jewellery, hats and fascinators and occasion and casual clothing.

Also available are gloves, scarves, purses and wallets and a myriad of gift ideas.

Putting the customer first has always been at the heart of Lesley’s business ethos and she is ably supported by her friendly and knowledgeable Bromsgrove sales team Ann and Jackie.

All visitors to the store – whether they are loyal customers or new faces – are greeted with a warm welcome and a smile.

Everyone is encouraged to take as much time as they like to browse and to try on as many outfits to ensure they will be truly happy with their purchases.

“We believe in making people feel comfortable, creating the right environment and building a rapport,” said Lesley.

“Large chain stores – and clothing companies that operate solely on the internet - don’t provide that bespoke and personal shopping experience.

“We pride ourselves on bringing warmth into customers’ lives. We’re always generous with our advice as we want them to feel amazing and look wonderful, whatever the purpose of their new outfit.”

The team can advise on styles for special occasions, compile wish lists for birthdays and Christmas, help with colour matching of accessories to create the whole

14 Completely Bromsgrove

look and are happy to try to source items if people bring in photos of what they’re looking for.

“We’re also in the business of creating special memories,” added Lesley.

Lesley hand-picks items to suit every season and the recent warm and dry weather offers the perfect opportunity to wear items from the summer collection including beautiful floral printed dresses, lightweight jumpers, comfortable trainers and smart sandals.

All retailers know that they must stay ahead of the game to remain successful and, although they have a devoted customer base, Lesley’s stores are no exception.

“You have to evolve – if you don’t you get left behind,” she said.

“We’ve listened to our customers, who would like more clothing in store and that’s what we’ll be offering.”

Lesley Ashworth Accessories is closed at present but anyone wishing to order items can do so via www. lesleyashworth.co.uk or the Facebook page Lesley Ashworth Accessories. Postage is free during the lockdown.

Brenda Killigrew Sewing Studio and Inkberrow Design Centre Sew for the NHS Tutors and students work together whilst staying apart to sew for the NHS

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ormally a busy studio full of students learning sewing skills in a sociable environment, Brenda Killigrew Sewing Studio may be closed at the moment, but this hasn’t stopped students, customer and staff alike from using their skills for a good cause.

As part of the nationwide “For the Love of Scrubs” movement on Facebook, the centre has become a collection point for finished projects in Bromsgrove.

They have also been supplying sewists with thread and buttons to make scrubs, bags and much-needed buttoned head bands for masks.

Brenda is “proud of the achievements our staff and students have made and how much they have taken this movement to their hearts. They are working hard making items from headbands to scrubs and doing their bit”.

Small businesses on Worcester Road have been uniting for this cause. Bromsgrove Printing have supplied the sewing team with print outs of the scrubs patterns whilst Bromsgrove Rotary Club have raised funds to purchase 250 metres of fabric which Brenda will distribute to staff and students to make up into scrubs thanks to their member Tony Docherty of Maekong Thai reaching out to the studio.

Meanwhile the studio shop has become one of 4 UK retailers for a replacement filter for sewn face masks, and will donate 10% to NHS charities from the sales of this product.

Brenda Killigrew

Laura Cooney

Completely Bromsgrove

15

Local school helps with mask-making task!

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eter Clague, Headmaster of Bromsgrove School, along with a small number of remaining boarders and residential staff who are living in one household within the School campus, have produced by hand a staggering 815 face shields in the School’s DT department for frontline NHS staff tackling the Coronavirus.

Former pupil Cllr Aled Luckman collected the first batch of shields for distribution and they are now in use on Ward 6 of the Alexandra Hospital, Redditch where Aled’s sister and former Head Girl is a junior doctor in Cardiology. Tracy Limbrick, a member of staff, and pupils have also been busy making 35 scrub bags.

More of Bromsgrove’s face shields are now being used to help protect staff across the region, from District Nurses, to Emergency departments and ICU. In addition, 290 pairs of goggles from various departments across the School have been delivered to County Hall for distribution wherever they are needed.

16 Completely Bromsgrove

To date, the School has been able to help protect staff at: Worcester Acute Care, ICU Worcester/ Redditch, Stourport Pharmacy, the X-Ray Dept at Worcester, UHB Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s Haemophilia Unit, Wyre Forest GP, Emergency Dept at QE Hospital, Jigsaw Medical – Paramedics, Children’s & Neonatal Unit, Worcester Royal Hospital, BHH ITU, NHS Staff Covid swabbing, Emergency Department at Newcross Hospital, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Winyates Health Centre, Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership Trust, Primrose Hospice, Burcot Nursing Home, Wyre Forest GPs, Dudley GPs, local care home agencies, NHS GPs and nursing staff, local district nurses and workers in local community care. Thank you to Head of DT, Mr Matthews, for designing and making all of the parts ready for assembly.

Headmaster, Mr Clague. said: “We are proud to support the NHS, Key Workers and everyone working on the frontline through this pandemic”.

Completely Bromsgrove

17

RECIPE

Peanut Butter Cheesecake I

by Jane Devonshire

“ make no apologies for this cake - it is laden with calories in every way! It is, however, Ben’s favourite (my son), and I make it for very special occasions. It is not difficult, as the only cooking involved is melting the chocolate for the topping. Feel free to decorate the top of the cheesecake with crushed peanut brittle, chocolates, gold leaf - whatever takes your fancy!

- or just leave it plain. If desired, you can halve the mixture and make individual cheesecakes in muffin trays - they’re great fun, although a little fiddly.”*

*Extract from Hassle Free, Gluten Free by Jane Devonshire (Bloomsbury Absolute, £22) Photography © Mike Cooper Serves 8 - 10 Ingredients 300g gluten-free digestive biscuits; I use 2 packs of gluten-free Hob Nobs 150g unsalted butter, melted 1 x 340g jar of gluten-free crunchy peanut butter (i like the texture but use smooth if you prefer) 280g cream cheese 2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste 125g icing sugar 150ml double cream For the topping: 100g glutenfree dark chocolate 70% cocoa solids, finely chopped 100ml double cream

www.kikkoman.co.uk

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Method In a food processor, blitz the biscuits to a fine crumb. Combine the blitzed biscuit crumbs with the melted butter, then use the mixture to line the bottom and halfway up the sides of the tin. Place in the fridge for 30 - 40 minutes until set and hard.

Put the peanut butter, cream cheese, vanilla bean paste and icing sugar into a food processor and whizz until fully combined; alternatively you can use an electric hand whisk for this.

In a separate large bowl, whisk the double cream until soft peaks appear. Take a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture and, using a spatula, gently fold into the cream, trying to retain as much air in the mix as possible. Repeat until all of the peanut butter mixture is incorporated into the cream.

Add the mix on top of the crumbed biscuit base, being careful not to disturb the sides. Place in the fridge and chill for 2 - 3 hours until set. You can freeze this now, or keep it covered in the fridge for up to 48 hours.

For the topping, place the chocolate in a large bowl. Heat the cream in a pan until just boiling, then pour over the chocolate and whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Take the cheesecake straight from the fridge and pour over the ganache, working from the centre outwards. Return to the fridge for 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.

Remove the cheesecake from the tin - you will probably need to carefully run a knife around the edge of the cake - and serve.

www.lovebritishfood.co.uk

Master Butcher

Duncombes

Whilst in lockdown, we are observing Government guide lines and allowing one customer into the shop at a time keeping everyone safe.

“Constantly in the pursuit of excellence”

(Regular customers to the shop will probably be more familiar with Mark’s sense of humour, and his poor suffering sister, who regularly tries to get Mark to sack her to no avail!!)

Our philosophy is simple:

Mark and his sister Sharon (affectionately known as Shazza) would like to say a big thank you to all their customers that visit the shop and for supporting them during these difficult times.

We source the best produce possible!

From Farmers and Producers who give you AMAZING GRAZING!

Producers for the shop are:Steve Quigley – Sausages Dorothy & Harry of Staffordshire Meats Bellinghams of Birmingham Knights of Honeybourne Wrights - Pies Along with their meats, Duncombe’s also stock, local eggs supplied by Richard Whittaker of Tutnal,and duck eggs supplied

by Meadow Bank Farm of Tardebigge. Along with their preserves they also stock locally sourced honey, which is produced by Worcestershire Honey in Millfields Road, Bromsgrove.

Join us....

ark has continued with the family ethos which has always been to supply locally where possible. But always from farmers and produces that have the highest standards and care sourced meats and produce, as well as, animal welfare being at the forefront of his buying strategy.

149 Golden Cross Lane, Catshill, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B61 0JZ

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Tel: 01527 874526

Mark took over the business from his uncle John Bullock in 1989

This advert should be upside down!

23 Alcester Road, Lickey End, Bromsgrove, B60 1JT

We are happy to help anyone who is self-isolating due to the Coronavirus and needs groceries delivered.

Services we offer:

We sell:

• Home News Delivery

• Dry Cleaning

News, confectionery, tobacco, alcohol, soft drinks, coffee to go, food to go, general groceries.

• Post Office: High street banking

Shop & Post Office Opening Hours:

(Newspaper & Magazines delivered)

(Deposit Cash & Cheques, Withdrawals, Balance Enquiries)

Travel Money, One4all Gift Cards, Stamps, Online Returns, Premium Delivery options, Mobile Phone Top Ups, Fishing Licences • Lottery • Health Lottery

• Monday to Friday: 6:30am - 6:00pm • Saturday: 7:30am - 6:00pm • Sunday: 7:30am - 3:00pm We offer FREE delivery to the Bromsgrove area.

Vicky's Completely Bromsgrove Mag Half Page L 160mmx115mm.indd 1

Please get in touch if you’d like to book a FREE delivery or require any more information

01527 874759

19

22/04/2020 12:50 Completely Bromsgrove

Advertisement Feature

Bromsgrove butchers deliver BBQ essentials direct to door

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ndependent, female-run butchers Butcher’s Block of Bromsgrove are continuing to serve the community during the Coronavirus outbreak by delivering fresh meat to your door.

With temperatures hitting the low 70s over recent weeks, barbecue season has arrived early in Worcestershire. Thankfully, Butcher’s Block is well-stocked and the team have ramped up their ‘Nice to Meat You’ home delivery service to households as far afield as Birmingham and Leicester to ensure that barbecues go with a bang(er)..

Butcher’s Block are proud suppliers of fresh British produce, award winning Lashford Sausages, a wide selection of fresh artisan meat and – especially for the heatwave - handmade beef burgers and delicious, marinated chicken kebabs, all prepared and ready to cook. They also proudly offer local honey and eggs.

As the Covid-19 pandemic continues and the heatwave takes hold, the thought of a trip to the supermarket can send blood pressure higher than the thermometer, so home delivery slots are not only safe, but can be the perfect antidote to anxiety.

Orders can be made directly through their Facebook page @ButchersBlockBromsgrove and over the phone, with contactless payments taken by card and delivery arranged to be dropped directly to your door. Exceeding governmental safety guidelines, the girls from Butcher’s Block wear protective gloves and masks when making their deliveries, keeping them – and you – safe, as well as well fed.

As well as delivering direct to door, their shop remains open Tuesday – Saturday, 8am-2pm, adhering to government guidelines, with a strict two people policy only in-store at any time.

Ran by wife and wife team, Lilith and Michelle HolseySheppard, Butcher’s Block is one of Bromsgrove High Street’s best-loved businesses and is the only Butchers in the Midlands owned and operated by a female staff.

“Michelle and I pride ourselves on giving a personal service to every customer – whether that’s through the shop, or via the home-delivery service. We believe there’s a move to shopping local and supporting independents once again – and you can’t get much more local than Butcher’s Block! Shopping locally is also good for the economy as it promotes spending money closer to home and secures the future of our local high streets”, says Lilith Holsey Sheppard – one half of the formidable female duo.

Business partner – and wife – Michelle Holsey Sheppard adds; “We’ve been blown away by the response from customers over the past few weeks. We’ve built trust with these people over the past year since we launched, so it’s humbling to have them tell us that they only want Butcher’s Block to supply their fresh meat and eggs during the lockdown.”

Follow us: www.facebook.com/ButchersBlockBromsgrove/?ref=py_c

20 Completely Bromsgrove

53 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AJ

Tel: 01527 570241

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Isolation and looking at a new way of living W

ith this shut down from this invisible virus our lives are having to take on a different way of how we see each other, how we live and how we can earn a living. I have always worked for myself except when I first left college and went into the catering industry and then going back to college to train as a beauty therapist, I did run a beauty salon for a short time.

Once I had my first child it was then I started to work from home. Even though I was living abroad and raising my children I studied and started to collect different things to my toolbox to allow me to earn a living this has always been my plan B. Within the last 4 years I found what I had been searching for, for over 30 years. Being a holistic practitioner, aromatherapist and colour teacher and life coach I needed something physical to recommend to clients and to have something if I had no students or clients.

We all make Redox Molecules in every cell within our bodies, but it decreases as we age. Once we stop making these molecules we die, that is how important they are.

So, is it not a wise thing to do to replenish these magical molecules?

During this isolation I am still studying and found this is a great book.

Healthy Cells, Healthy Life Balancing Redox for better Health” by Dr. Robertson. D. Ward, M.D. FAAFP, MC-FP Redox & the Respiratory System Protecting and maintaining health in the respiratory system is critical. Redox signalling molecules play a pivotal role in activating the defense systems for lung cells. They also signal support to eliminate outside invaders from the environment that come through the air. Redox signalling molecules also play an important role in repairing damage. Lung cells repair and replace themselves faster than any other cells in the body, which is vital in supporting life.

Redox & the Immune System Redox signalling molecules relay messages hundreds of millions of times a second throughout the body. Cells use this information to defend, survey and redirect immune cells to deal with foreign invaders, sickened cells and cancer cells.

When Redox signalling molecules are not in balance,

serious problems can occur. Signaling malfunctions and the immune system no longer register normal body activity.

I just want to say that the product that I have with these molecules will NOT cure any disease or illness, but we know it helps to balance the immune system and our genes. I was also listening to a doctor talking about these molecules the other day and he said that the medical profession will take at least 17 years to accept any new information from what they haven’t learnt during their course. With this new epidemic I think they are having to learn faster than taking 17 years to find answers.

If you have any questions, I will try to answer them.

by Colette Garside Colette@need4change.com

Completely Bromsgrove

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Lockdown unlocks community spirit A

cross Fairfield, Wildmoor & Stoneybridge, residents have been supporting each other during the current Coronavirus crisis, with contact telephone calls, shopping for the vulnerable and feel good activities.

During the lockdown, residents took part in a Candle for Hope and have displayed rainbows and teddies in their windows, which have raised a smile for people undertaking their daily exercise. Every Thursday, residents have stood outside their homes as part of Clap For Our Carers, applauding key workers who are providing essential services during the Coronavirus crisis, including personnel involved in food production, distribution & retail, postal and delivery services, communications & energy supply, refuse collection, emergency services & healthcare and more.

St. George’s Day was marked with flag flying and in conjunction with friends in neighbouring

Bournheath there have been weekly challenges, including creating a Garden on a Plate, poetry and story writing.

The Community Association has kept residents up to date with local news, which has helped reduce the distance that people are feeling, and over the fence conversations are also keeping people connected.

Lockdown may prevent social activities at the Village Hall, and the reels are not rolling at Fairfield Flicks (www.fairfieldflicks.org.uk), but when restrictions permit films on the way include Little Women, Knives Out and The Personal History Of David Copperfield.

Suspicious email reporting tool available The suspicious email reporting tool report@phishing.gov.uk launched by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has already received 2,264 reports.This has led to 50 phishing sites being removed.

Cyber criminals love phishing. Unfortunately, this is not a harmless riverbank pursuit.When criminals go phishing, you are the fish and the bait is usually contained in a scam email or text message.

The criminal’s goal is to convince you to click on the links within their scam email or text message, or to give away sensitive information (such as bank details).

22 Completely Bromsgrove

These messages may look like the real thing but are malicious.

Once clicked, you may be sent to a dodgy website which could download viruses onto your computer, or steal your passwords.

Have you spotted a suspicious email?

If you have received an email which you’re not quite sure about, forward it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) report@phishing.gov.uk Stay Safe. Stay Connected. Stay Cyber Aware For further information to stay cyber safe please go to: www.ncsc.gov.uk/information/report-suspicious-emails www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/about-ncsc/what-is-cyber-security

Basement still open – with a difference!

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espite the current COVID-19 crisis The Basement Project is still working to support young people in the Bromsgrove and surrounding areas – albeit in somewhat different ways than previously.

Due to the Government’s request that people work from home as much as possible and maintain social distancing, the Basement team are continuing to provide their support of young people but in a virtual way, using various means of communication like Skype, Whatsapp, Facebook Messenger and traditional phone calls and texts. The Skype line also acts as a “Virtual Drop In”.

When asked how they are managing, CEO Jackie commented: “The team are on duty on a rota basis and are available to accept calls between 11am and 4pm every weekday but are also calling clients outside of these hours.

They will contact clients over the weekend if there is an exceptional need. The answerphone message advises people the different ways and the hours we can be contacted. Regular contact and support is being offered to varying degrees dependent on the needs of the individual.”

“We are also able to provide virtual counselling sessions from a qualified counsellor who has experience of working with young people and also virtual mediation if families are struggling with conflict or other issues at home.”

“In addition, we will be putting regular information around issues such as mental health on Facebook and our website, including what help and support is available from other agencies, including support for victims of domestic abuse. We are also inviting young people to engage in ‘activities’ such as writing poems or submitting drawings to express how they are coping with the current situation.”

“We are continuing to take new referrals and will carry out virtual Needs Assessments until face to face work can continue.”

When asked about food parcels that the Basement is well known for, Jackie said that the foodbank remained in operation and young people are given time slots on a Tuesday or Friday each week when they can collect food, so that social distancing is maintained. Staff are also delivering food parcels across the county to young people who need them most, with the time of delivery agreed in advance so that the parcels can be left safely.

The Basement are also working closely with the District Council and other agencies like Newstarts, Churches Together in Bromsgrove, Catshill Baptist foodbank, BARN (Bromsgrove And Redditch Network) and Bromsgrove Community Support (a new volunteer group that came together on Facebook in response to the Coronavirus outbreak) to ensure no-one “falls through the cracks” in what is a very difficult time – even more so if you are struggling with other issues, like homelessness, depression

or family breakdown as well as coronavirus threat. There is also a new website www.supportbromsgrove.com You can keep up to date with news from the Basement by signing up for their quarterly newsletter on the web at www.bromsgrovebasementproject.org.uk

How a client (Gemma, 24) sees The Basement Project - in the shape of a poem: Feeling good, or feeling bad, a feeling of dread or simply wanting to be dead, Basement are always on hand to even out the spread.

Housing or finance that’s what they do, but is that all?

No! they help me too.

They build me up and tell me they’re proud although sometimes I struggle when my voices are so loud, It’s not always easy for them to hear but they’re always on hand to lend their ear.

Helping with calls when I just feel like saying “oh balls!”

They keep me calm when my head keeps ringing like the morning alarm, they probably walk in my house sometimes and think I live on a farm!

But you’re never judged by anything you say, I’ve just always found it hard to find the reason to why I need to stay.

Understanding is used as an understatement because lock down got me thinking all these amazing people are keeping me from sinking.

From phone calls to FaceTime they’ve all played their part, in this time for fear of isolation you’ve all been my hope and motivation, near or far you’ve been my shining star.

I thank you all for all your different traits and I think personally you all need better pay rates!

Completely Bromsgrove

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Church at Home – how to find help locally

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ollowing the Prime Minister’s announcement in March, the Archbishops have written to clergy in support of the measures that require all churches to close both for private worship and public services and all other meetings and activities until further notice.

Churches in Bromsgrove have responded to the closing of the buildings by finding ways to bring people together whilst they remain in their own homes.

Prayer and Worship from St John’s Church Every day (except Sunday) at 9.30am Vicar Ray Khan says Morning Prayer on a Facebook Live broadcast, which is then posted on the St John’s YouTube Channel. The 15 minute service is a calming way to start the day, to feel connected with others and set your intentions for the day ahead. www.facebook.com/StJohnsChurchBromsgrove Pre-recorded Sunday Services which feature a mixture of readings, prayers, thoughts and music from around the world as well as St John’s are being broadcast on YouTube at 10.45am, but can be viewed at any time on the You Tube Channel St.Johns Bromsgrove. Contact Rev Ray Khan by phone 01527 577172 or email rev.stjohns.bromsgrove@gmail.com Services and Study from St Godwald’s Rev David Ford is using Zoom – the online video calling service – to stay connected with his parish. Sunday services take place at 10.30am each week. Anyone wishing to join can call or email Rev David for details tel 01527 873831 or email revdavidford@gmail.com On Thursdays at 11am Rev David will be hosting an online bible study group and coffee morning to help sustain fellowship and mental health. All are welcome to join in the online services and study groups.

Other help All local churches are offering Pastoral Care over the telephone. If you are feeling lonely and want to be contacted regularly by a member of the local church, do make contact with the vicar who will put you in touch with someone who will call you each week. All contact details can be found on www.bromsgroveparish.org.uk

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Radio 4 holds a daily service at 9.45am and of course local radio and BBC TV also broadcasts other services as well.

Premier Radio is a good spot to find teaching and news from a Christian perspective.

Funeral Reflections at Home It’s so difficult when you can’t go to a funeral, whether for family, friend or neighbour, but there are options to reflect at home at the time the funeral is taking place. If you can, find a quiet, tranquil place at home or in the garden where you can sit and be still, maybe have a photo of the person who has died, maybe write down fond memories or play special music, and hold the person in your thoughts. It may help to light a candle as you reflect on your memories and think about those who are at the funeral, holding them in your thoughts too.

At this time of crisis, church at home can help you to find a way through. Do reach out or join in with your local church community.

Some prayers for the Coronavirus outbreak God of compassion, be close to those who are ill, afraid or in isolation.

In their loneliness, be their consolation; in their anxiety, be their hope; in their darkness, be their light; through him who suffered alone on the cross, but reigns with you in glory, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Merciful God, we entrust to your tender care those who are ill or in pain, knowing that whenever danger threatens your everlasting arms are there to hold them safe.

Comfort and heal them, and restore them to health and strength; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Aerial photograph by Gordon Dipple

HISTORY

Messing About on Canals A s we contemplate the great outdoors during lockdown, many people’s thoughts will be drawn to happy days spent on and along the canal at Tardebigge.

The Worcester and Birmingham Canal is a notable feature of the Worcestershire landscape. From Gas Street Basin in Birmingham to Tardebigge, the canal runs on the level for some 15 miles. It then descends by 58 locks in another 15 miles to the River Severn at Diglis on the south side of Worcester.

At Tardebigge the canal passes through two tunnels and there are two wharves which used to be busy with working boats. The first lock is below Tardebigge Church and after a short level stretch the canal continues its descent of over 200 feet by 29 more locks, one after the other, to Stoke Pound. The whole flight of 30 locks is famous as the longest succession of narrow locks in the country. It provides hard work for those travelling by boat up and down the canal, but they are rewarded with spectacular views over the Worcestershire countryside to the south and west Work on the canal commenced in 1792 following the passing of an Act of Parliament. Construction began at the Birmingham end and the canal was opened as far as Selly Oak in 1795. But shortage of money caused significant delays and it was not until January 1811 that Tardebigge Tunnel was finished and boats were able to travel through it to the New Wharf. The whole canal was opened to traffic on 4 December 1815.

The canal became a vital distribution route for Birmingham manufacturers, enabling them to ship their products to Worcester, and then on down the River Severn via the port of Bristol to customers across the world. Local industries also benefitted: the canal’s arrival prompted John Corbett, ‘the Salt King’, to establish his salt works alongside the waterway at Stoke Prior. There were also several brick and pottery works. But like canals across the country, it was

unable to compete with the railways and from the mid 19th century traffic began to decline.

In 1809 an experimental boat lift was erected at the top of the Tardebigge flight. It was intended to raise and lower boats 12 feet but after several accidents was dismantled and replaced by a standard lock, albeit deeper than all the others. Whilst moored at Tardebigge in 1945, two enthusiasts, Tom Rolt and Robert Aickman, decided to form the Inland Waterways Association (IWA) to maintain the country’s canal network. The event is marked by a stone plinth near Tardebigge Wharf.

In the 1990s, a major programme began, to restore the Tardebigge locks. Work on the top nine, numbered 50 to 58, was completed in time for the reopening of the canal in the spring of 1996. The remainder were completed within a further two years at a total cost of around £300,000.

Today, the Tardebigge locks provide recreation for locals and tourists alike. Can’t wait to get back there!

For a detailed history see The Worcester and Birmingham Canal: Chronicles of the Cut, by Alan White, available from the Bromsgrove Society’s online bookstall: www.bsoc.co.uk/publications/books

by Mike Sharpe Completely Bromsgrove

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Scouting adventures continue W hilst Covid 19 has stopped many of their activities, Bromsgrove Scouts are determined to keep on Scouting through this difficult period. Beavers, Cubs and Scouts have all had to suspend regular group meetings, cancel camps, and put outdoor adventures on hold, and like the rest of us, are largely confined to their homes but that hasn’t stopped them Scouting. And many have come up with innovative ways to get their regular Scouting experiences whilst still social distancing.

Groups have swapped their Scout huts for virtual meeting rooms so they can keep in touch each week. The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts aren’t seeing much of their friends at the moment so they are really enjoying being able to chat to them on screen. It does present a challenge though to leaders for how they can adapt their regular Scouting programme to the virtual world. Group Scout Leader at 7th Bromsgrove in Finstall Mark Graham explains what his group are doing “We call our virtual meetings ‘WoggleBox’ and we’ve had to be a bit imaginative with what we do – Last week we got the Scouts to climb the height of Snowdon up and down the stairs, and on Good Friday we had a Facebook Live hot cross bun party.”

Some of the leaders are also key workers so three Beaver colonies (six and seven year olds) have amalgamated in the current situation so they can carry on offering Scouting activities to as many as possible. District Commissioner Viv Ware is at its heart: “In only the second week we did a virtual cooking session, where the Beavers could cook anything they wanted. We had lots of different items cooked, including cookies, brownies, banana cake, flapjacks, and one even baked a pizza in an oven in the garden. The only down side was we didn’t get to taste any, but then we didn’t have to wash up either!”

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts have plenty of spare time at the moment so many have taken the opportunity to complete badges at home. Whether it’s photography, art, craft or even DIY Scouts are making the most of their time. Hereford and Worcester County leaders have set up a special challenge badge for all Scout Sections to do – They call it ‘Shirejammin’.

Scouts from across the County are now busily trying to do all the things they need to do to complete the challenge including

26 Completely Bromsgrove

taking part in virtual meetings, making a den or camping in the garden, completing a badge at home, taking regular exercise, speaking to Scouts in other countries, and helping parents with jobs around the house.

The Patron Saint of Scouting is St George and every year around the 23rd April, Scouts hold a parade and church service, and this year they have done it a little differently.

Over 180 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and leaders joined together for a virtual St George’s Day celebration on Facebook Live. The 23rd itself was a Thursday so across the District Scouts were out on their doorsteps at 8pm in their uniforms making as much noise as possible for the NHS and other keyworkers.

A key part of Scouting is to help the communities in which we live and Scouts have been showing their support for the NHS by drawing and painting rainbows, displaying them in windows and on doors, on walls, paths, and even stones. They have also been sending letters, hearts and virtual hugs to loved ones, neighbours and local care homes, and they helped raise over £250k for the BBC’s Big Night In by ‘Hiking to the Moon’ where each Scout made a donation for walking a mile at home.

Looking forward, it is likely that the lock down will last a few more weeks yet so local leaders have lots more virtual events planned including campfires, sleep outs and a Beaver bear hunt which will keep Scouts scouting until they can meet up for real again.

If you would like to help out with your local Scout group please contact District Commissioner Viv Ware at dc.bromsgrove@scoutshw.org.uk. The Scouting organisation will be in need of new leaders from September to ensure it emerges from the Coronavirus crisis as strong as before.

Fair Day in Bromsgrove - by Royal Charter granted 1199

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idsummer’s Day Fair has taken place in Bromsgrove since the charter to hold the Fair was granted by King John in 1199. Sadly, this traditional event can’t take place this year, but we can celebrate the history and look forward to celebrations in 2021.

When the Domesday Book was written in 1086 Bromsgrove is recorded as being “King William’s land” with a Reeve, Beadle and a Priest and a community of 18 villages. Just over one hundred years later and the town, still within the Royal Manor, was granted a charter to hold a Fair on 24th June, Midsummer’s day. The Charter was one of the first in Worcestershire and the annual, important Fair was for buying and selling horses and cattle, linen and wollen cloth, raw wool, cheese and other goods.

The early fairs and markets probably took place at the bottom of the church steps on a green or on cobbled street by the ford in the brook. As the years passed, and the town grew in size, the fairs were held on the High Street and the shop keepers could bring their wares onto the street and residents could create a pen in front of their property and hire it out to sellers.

The Midsummer Fair was a highlight of the year for the town, attracting visitors from far afield, farmers in white smocks with decorated horses, acrobats and jugglers, music and songs from minstrels, gypsies in colourful costumes telling fortunes – a day of merriment for the town, along side the serious business of selling animals and goods.

the weekly Saturday market in the High Street. Schools and Scout groups are invited to join in the day and townsfolk are welcomed to enjoy the Fair and partake in this centuries old occasion.

The Bailiff of the Court Leet proclaims the Charter of 1199 and the Officers of the Court report on their findings. Ale Taster, Searcher and Sealer of Leather, Brook Looker, Breadweigher and Carnitor all carry out an “assize” to show to the townsfolk that the goods offered for sale are good, wholesome and fit for consumption, and that the brooks are well maintained.

It is sad that the 2020 Fair Day will not take place, but the charter will be proclaimed on social media and the tradition of the Midsummer Fair Day will continue for years to come. Find out more on www.facebook.com/ CourtLeetBromsgrove

From the early days of the Fair, The Bailiff, in full regalia of office, along with Ealdormen and Court Leet members would walk the Fair, with bellman and pole bearers to accompany them. This tradition continues to this day, and in the 1980’s a traditional style street market was reintroduced to the day, now held on the closest Saturday to Midsummer’s day.

In recent years on Fair Day local craft traders and charities are encouraged to take a stall at the market which runs alongside

By Jo Slade, Bailiff Bromsgrove Court Leet 2020 Completely Bromsgrove

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Bromsgrove’s community say thank you to the NHS, all key workers, including care workers, supermarket workers, all delivery drivers and anyone who is putting themselves out there to keep the good people of Bromsgrove fed and cared for - We thank you!

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At Tardebigge CE First School our vision is ‘human potential is without limit if we are motivated and engaged’. We aim to achieve this by providing the whole school community with ‘a rainbow of opportunity’. We are often referred to by our families as ‘the rainbow school.’ We have rainbows all around our school as a symbol of hope and to remind the children that with a growth mindset, you can do anything. As a Church of England school, we believe that children should experience life in all its fullness (John 10:10) hence providing ‘a rainbow of opportunity.’

On Friday 20th March, the last school day before lockdown due to the Covid 19 crisis, our staff were busy teaching children whilst also preparing packs of work to hand out for home learning for the weeks ahead. In school, we discussed with the children the story of Noah’s ark and the rainbow being the symbol of hope. The children all created their own rainbows in class. We had several children and families that were self-isolating at home, and we shared our rainbows with them. We set these children a task to also make and create their own rainbows to be displayed at their homes, which they shared with us all later.

On Monday 23rd March, the school re-opened to start the task of looking after the children of critical keyworkers. Whilst many parents endeavored to keep their children safe at home, some required school to look after their children. Therefore, the school was open in a different capacity; to provide care and stability during the working day for these children.

In what was normally the Easter holidays, we gave the children a choice of fun activities, one of which was the option to paint a giant rainbow at the front of the school. We wanted to do a little something to show our enormous gratitude not only to our hero NHS workers but also everyone else who is keeping the country running at this difficult time.

With footpaths alongside our school grounds used by walkers doing their daily exercise, we hope our rainbow also gave them hope and strength with its colour and vibrancy.

As we only had a few children in school that day, the rainbow took most of the day to complete.

There was a real sense of pride, awe and wonder when it was finished. When picking their children up, the parents, many of whom are doctors and nurses, were extremely impressed and happy. We did have to apologise at the end of the day for some slightly colourful children. We certainly made good use of spare school uniform as we washed lots of paint off clothes. Thankfully, the sun was shining, and the clothes were returned clean and dry!

We shared the finished picture of the rainbow with all the other children across the school using our class distance learning portal and had many positive comments over the following days. It reminded children how much they missed being at school and our wonderful view.

Our children now believe our Tardebigge school rainbow is bringing hope all over the country right now! We look forward to returning to school soon and seeing all our children in class again. Seeing them through a computer screen on our learning portal is lovely but not quite the same.

Tardebigge School Completely Bromsgrove

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Why not enjoy a good old head-scratch while in lockdown!

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Sudoku

Across: 1 Iraq, 3 Savaii, 8 Macao, 9 Sharp, 10 One, 11 Drawl, 13 Sitar, 15 Arose, 18 Sushi, 20 Rot, 21 Extra, 22 Obese, 23 Yankee, 24 Isn’t.

Down: 1 Immediately, 2 Accra, 4 Asses, 5 Await, 6 Impertinent, 7 Cool, 12 Was, 14 I O U, 16 Often, 17 Erase, 18 Stop, 19 Seers.

Crossword

Sudoku Medium No.301

30 Completely Bromsgrove

8 9

6 1 7 4 9 2 3 6 5

7 1 2 5 6 3 8 9 4

Answers below:

Sudoku

4 7 1 9 2 7 6 4 5 3 1 8

Civil War (6) 24 Is not (4) Down 1 At once (11) 2 Capital of Ghana (5) 4 Donkeys (5) 5 Look for (5) 6 Rude (11) 7 In (4) 12 Used to be (3) 14 Acknowledgement of debt (1,1,1) 16 Many times (5) 17 Efface (5) 18 Cease (4) 19 Prophets (5)

3 6 1 8 9 2 7 4 5

Across 1 Republic between Iran and Syria (4) 3 Largest Samoan island (6) 8 Former Portuguese territory in S China (5) 9 Acute (5) 10 Unity (3) 11 Speak in a slow manner (5) 13 Lute of India (5) 15 Got up (5) 18 Japanese dish (5) 20 Decay (3) 21 In addition (5) 22 Corpulent (5) 23 Union soldier in the US

5 4 8 3 7 1 9 6 2

Crossword

1 8 9 2 3 4 5 7 6

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6 7 4 9 5 8 1 2 3

15

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Disappointment as season ends for Bromsgrove Sporting

Photos by Richard Bowkett

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aturday April 25th should have been the last day of the season for Bromsgrove Sporting with a home match against Stratford Town, some sunny weather and a carnival atmosphere usually reserved for the final match.

However with no possibility of playing any football before the end of May, the season came to an abrupt end in mid-March when the Southern League announced that the results of all matches played would be expunged meaning that there would be no promotions or relegations. The expectation is that the same teams will be playing in the league next season.

Sporting should have played Alvechurch in the final of the Worcestershire FA Senior Cup but as that was also cancelled, so the two teams will share the trophy for this season.

Similarly with Sporting’s under 18 team who will have to share their County Cup with Halesowen Town.

The early end has allowed close season maintenance to start early with a new automatic irrigation system in progress and refurbishment of the main stand.

Planning for next season is difficult but manager Brendan Kelly is already talking to players whilst our Colts and Women’s teams are also recruiting. Please send any enquiries to hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk.

Meanwhile Sporting are trying to do their bit to help with the current crisis by opening the Victoria Ground every Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to accept donations to Bromsgrove foodbanks.

Also during the season, Sporting players build up a pool of money that is used to celebrate the end of the season. However with no celebration they have agreed to donate the money equally between Bromsgrove Community Support and MIND, the Club’s chosen charity for the season.

See www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk for more information.

by Phil Baker

Completely Bromsgrove

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If you provide the plans, we’ll provide the inspiration

Contact us for guidance on measuring and we will present designs for your new project via video link

FITTED INTERIORS

Kitchens | Bedrooms | Home Studies Visit us at: Saxon Park, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove B60 4AD Tel: 01527 835924 | Showrooms also at Kenilworth, Solihull and Studley 32  Completely Bromsgrove

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