Completely Bromsgrove issue 21

Issue 21

August 2020

Completely

Bromsgrove

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Welcome

W

elcome to the August issue of Completely Bromsgrove.

Where else to start but with my socially distanced meeting with Leighton Webster, a baker at Asda’s Bromsgrove store, and his lovely family. We chatted in his dad Barry’s garden and Leighton told me all about his battle with Coronavirus and the 79 days he spent in the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch. I’m sure you will all agree it’s a really heart-warming article.

As we move further into the ‘new normal’, it’s great to see pubs and restaurants trading again. Hopefully you’ll be paying a visit to some of the great hospitality venues we have on our doorstep and showing them your support.

In Bromsgrove we’re very fortunate to have England’s first outdoor museum on our doorstep in the shape of Avoncroft Museum of Buildings. This is a brilliant educational day out for the whole family and as the only funding they receive is from visitors let’s all get behind them by taking a trip to this historical attraction.

Nearby Hanbury Hall, with its vast outdoor space, is the perfect spot for a picnic and for the kids to run off some energy!

Our Women in Business feature focuses on Jo Slade, Bromsgrove’s Bailiff of the ancient Court Leet. As the first women Bailiff, not only has Jo made history, her passion is history. Jo is a great asset to Bromsgrove and we salute her.

While everyday life is starting to return to a more normal existence, we are still not virus free and I would like to finish by saying wear your masks with pride, make sure they are disposed of correctly and keep safe and well.

6

Enjoy the magazine.

Very best wishes,

Michele Ford

16 28 37

Contents

6 8 10 14 16 18 20

Leighton Webster - survivor!

Some words from our MP Gardening Worcs Wildlife Trust Women in Business History The Horse Sanctuary

Completely

21 22 23 24 25 26 28

Bromsgrove Tel: 07948 086870 Email: completelybromsgrove@gmail.com

4 Completely Bromsgrove

Home Instead Winterfold School How College Health and Wellbeing Fashion St Michaels Church Blue Cross

29 33 34 35 36 37 38

Recipe Avoncroft Museum Severn Arts Drive-in Movies Historic Hanbury Hall B’grove Sporting F.C. Avoncroft C.C. /Trains

Congratulations to last issue’s Competition winners: George Cimarosti from Lickey End, Andrew Billau from Fairfield, Colin Ironfield from Stoke Heath and Hannah Baker from Norton Farm are the winners of The Dudley Zoo and Castle family tickets.

Sales: Michele Ford Tel: 07948 086870

Design: Matt Walton Design

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

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

Video calls with loved ones, a relaxing stroll in the garden, or having a stretch in an exercise class are just some of the things residents have enjoyed, and continue to enjoy, at Chandler Court care home. Add to that delicious home cooked food from our in-house chef, tailored care delivered by our fully trained and experienced team, the highest standards of safety and cleanliness, and you can see why we’re the ideal choice.

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one, we’re here for you.

To arrange a virtual tour or one-to-one video chat, please call 01527 907828 or email maria.cridge@careuk.com

Chandler Court care home Recreation Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 8DT careuk.com/chandler-court

Family, colleagues and football heroes aid Leighton’s ‘miracle’ recovery

Completely Bromsgrove Editor: Michele Ford, Skye aged 6, Chloe aged 10, Noah aged 3 and Leighton

D

ad of three Leighton Webster’s experience of Covid 19 is just one of many heart-warming stories of love, survival, 24/7 care by our amazing NHS and determination.

A baker at Asda’s town centre store, 42-yearold Leighton shared his story with Completely Bromsgrove.

Leighton, who lives in Redditch, said: “At the beginning of April, I wasn’t feeling well and as I have three young children my family suggested that I should go and stay with my dad Barry. After about three days, I was getting worse so my dad phoned 999.”

On April 13 Leighton was taken by ambulance to the Alexandra Hospital. He was diagnosed with the virus and his lungs had exploded. He spent 59 days in intensive care and while he was being given oxygen through his throat following a tracheostomy his wife Emma received a phone call at 3.30am to say she had permission to go to the hospital to say her goodbyes.

Fearing the worst, Emma went straight to the hospital. Sitting anxiously by Leighton’s bedside, she told him that the family needed him back at home and sang the couple’s wedding song, Heaven by Bryan Adams. Leighton wasn’t aware that Emma was

6 Completely Bromsgrove

at his bedside but his subconscious kicked in.

Once Leighton was strong enough to leave the intensive care unit, he was taken to Ward One and shortly afterwards was transferred to Ward Five, termed the clean ward.

Seventy-nine days after being admitted, he defied all the odds by walking out of the hospital. While he is still very weak, he is certainly a fighter and is loving being back home with his family.

Touched by his story, Completely Bromsgrove editor Michele Ford wanted to show her support and contacted West Midland Safari Park, who generously gifted the family passes and wristbands for a family day out when Leighton is stronger.

Leighton’s children, Chloe, ten, Skye, six, and threeyear-old Noah, were absolutely delighted with the tickets.

Asda administration manager Andy told Completely Bromsgrove there wasn’t a dry eye in the house when we saw Leighton walk out of hospital on ITV Central’s news bulletin.

Andy said: “Leighton has worked here for 26 years and is a well-loved and respected member of the team. We can’t wait to see him walk through the store’s doors so we can all say: ‘well done mate’. He’s a miracle.”

Look out for photos of the Webster family’s day out at West Midland Safari Park in a future issue of Completely Bromsgrove.

Colleagues and friends have kept Leighton going with text messages to stay in touch and up to date with his progress and he also received support from his beloved Birmingham City.

St Andrew’s season ticket holder Leighton received a phone call from former Blues player and broadcaster Robbie Savage while in hospital as well as a signed football shirt with a personal message from then manager Pep Clotet, which Leighton said, meant very much to him. Leighton’s family kept in contact with him through Facetime and WhatsApp live calls.

He recalled: “One of the first times I spoke to my dad he asked how I was doing. I replied: ‘Never mind about me, how are the Blues getting on?’ unaware that everything had come to a standstill. Dad replied: “It’s okay, you’ve not missed out on anything.”

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Completely Bromsgrove

7

A message from your local MP

I

t has been fantastic to see businesses reopening across Bromsgrove District, including our local pubs, restaurants and cafés. These venues are so important in connecting our communities and their opening has allowed people to enjoy themselves in a responsible way, with safety measures in place.

I would like to echo the words of Inspector Lee Page of West Mercia Police, who praised businesses and the vast majority of customers, who attended the opening of venues on July 4.

Our community response will play an important part in our economic recovery. Whilst out and about in Bromsgrove, Rubery and Hagley, business owners told me about the great support of local residents during this challenging time. This is encouraging news and I would urge people to keep on backing local businesses, so we can secure the strongest possible economic recovery.

I also had the oppor tunity to visit the home of Bromsgrove Spor ting FC, the Victoria Ground, to discuss how the club is getting on and see the recently refurbished roof of the main stand. They have named the stand after the much-loved Bromsgrove lad, Thomas Jones. It is a fantastic tribute and a real touch of class from the club. I could not praise them highly enough and I’m cer tainly looking forward to cheering on the team in future when the league restarts.

8 Completely Bromsgrove

In Parliament, the business of Government continues, so we can keep delivering on our manifesto commitments.

Last week, the Home Secretary announced that the Government will be consulting on doubling sentences for people who assault our emergency workers – ensuring they feel the full force of the law.

The Prime Minister and Chancellor have also set out plans to suppor t our economic recovery from this virus.

The Chancellor’s Plan for Jobs, wor th up to £30bn, will suppor t people to find jobs, create new employment oppor tunities through investing in infrastructure and housing and finally protect jobs by backing the hardest hit sectors. This is a welcome package of suppor t.

There is still work to be done and it is crucial that as restrictions are eased, we remember our common cause, which is to defeat this virus. Although it may be a bit different, I hope you and your family enjoy a pleasant summer holiday. As ever, if I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to get in touch via sajid.javid.mp@parliament.uk

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GARDENING

Making scents of beautiful garden aromas

A

garden full of scents is not always from the perfume of the flowers and blossom but often from the leaves that contribute to its mystery.

Many components - colour, height, form and movement – make up a garden but smell is often overlooked. We often plant something because its fragrance reminds us of another place and time. Scent can take us back to a forgotten moment in our past and to remind us strongly of people and places.

Phlox always reminds me of my grandmother and her garden and it is sometimes by accident that we put a fragrant plant into the garden for other reasons.

A hidden unexpected perfume can be intriguing and arouse a curiosity to our surroundings so a carefully chosen plant that might not be so visually stunning can be incorporated because of the scent alone.

Scent is the secret weapon of the winter garden. With so few pollinating insects around, the plant must work exceptionally hard to attract them. Mahonia, winter flowering clematis, Viburnam bodnantense, Daphne, Hammamelis are all perfect for attracting the pollinators.

In the summer there are many fragrant plants, none more so than the rose but it is those plants trying to attract night pollinators, including moths, that are the most fragrant in the evening.

Nicotiana sylvestris - the flowering tobacco plant with pure white tubular flowers above the foliage - is perfect at the back of the border so too is the sweet rocket, Hersperis, which really can earn its keep for its heady evening fragrance.

Night scented stocks as the name suggests and phlox show off their strongest fragrance on a warm summer evening. Over the months I’ve pointed out the virtues of highly scented plants and no English garden is complete without sweet peas or the sage smell of Salvia hot lips.

It is not always about the flower though and for any curious gardener keen to incorporate fragrant foliage, herbs can contribute to the show and awaken the senses.

Try chocolate mint, pineapple mint and strawberry mint and if you introduce them next to a pathway or near a bench you can appreciate them when passing by.

Along with roses, many climbing plants are perfect to cover bare walls and fences. Other than Honeysuckle, Trachelospermum is one of my favourite plants for its sweet smell over a long flowering period. Philadelphus or mock orange is interesting as its cup-shaped white flowers remind us of orange blossom from our holidays in warmer climates.

Think about adding more scents into the garden. It will entice you to linger longer and fully appreciate and enjoy what the garden has to offer, not just on long summer evenings but all year round.

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Completely Bromsgrove

Insect Champions Needed A re you ready to stand up and be counted for insects? Everyone, everywhere, is being asked to become an insect champion.

Following on from a 2019 report, which stated that 41% of our insect species are at risk of extinction, The Wildlife Trusts have just published a new report that brings together case studies and solutions from across the UK to inspire us all to do something for insects.

One of the featured case studies is our own Lower Smite Farm, a 65 hectare mixed arable farm, which is managed to increase the diversity and abundance of insects. We don’t use insecticides, slug pellets or livestock wormers. Our volunteers have planted 2km of species-rich hedges, created 500m of beetle banks and built 50 log piles for insects.

We’re not working in isolation. With a grant from DEFRA, we run a Wild Pollinator Facilitation Fund that allows us to work with 50 farmers to share our combined learning and experiences in order to encourage each other to try new ideas to help insects and other wildlife. The group is not only helping to improve and create habitat on their land but they’re building connectivity – corridors through the landscape that allow insects to move. These corridors, ultimately, connect our nature reserves and their farms with your gardens and other greenspaces.

What we do at Lower Smite Farm can be done on a smaller scale in your garden and local community. We have plenty of nectar and pollen rich plants and when we mow a field, we leave wide margins that are full of flowers – these not only help pollinating insects but also allow species like crickets and grasshoppers to complete their lifecycles. A visiting farmer commented that it looked like we’d flower-bombed the farm! Not mowing all your lawn could achieve the same thing and you could give it a helping hand by sowing native wildflower seeds.

14 Completely Bromsgrove

We’ve drilled fence posts to provide nesting oppor tunities for solitary bees; you could install a bee hotel. Our beetle banks are bare ear th with sunny and shady sides - in your garden, you could leave patches of earth in flower beds that you don’t dig in order to leave space for ground-dwelling insects.

Basically, we can all do our bit to offer ‘The Big 4’ – yearround food supplies, safe breeding and wintering habitat, connectivity of habitat and removing causes of stress such as pesticides. If you don’t have a garden, why not join forces with your community to make a difference for insects in your neighbourhood?

Sign up to take action for insects and you’ll have access to even more information about helping insects where you live www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/action-insects

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

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:

Grasshopper by Dave Merry. Hoverfly on daisy by Pete Smith.

Background: Bumble-bird mix Lower Smite Farm by Wendy Carter

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15

Heritage, history & hot air balloons!

Completely Bromsgrove chats to Jo Slade.

B

romsgrove is justly proud of its ancient Cour t Leet, which was founded in 1199, and last year it entered an exciting new chapter in its history with the appointment of its first female bailiff.

Jo Slade took on the role in November after being elected as Reeve 12 months earlier. She originally joined the Cour t as a member in 2013 as one of the first three women in the organisation, and her first role was Ale Taster.

Being named Bailiff was a proud moment for Jo, who expressed her thanks and gratitude to the long list of women who had suppor ted the court throughout its 800 years in her acceptance speech, and fitting as she has long been a history and heritage enthusiast. Although she said she didn’t ever set out to make history – it is just how her life has developed.

A former pupil of South Bromsgrove High School, Jo moved away from Worcestershire to study at Nottingham Trent University where she gained a BA Honours degree in Economics. After

16 Completely Bromsgrove

leaving university, she worked in Manchester in events and marketing until 2002 when she returned home to focus on setting up her own company, Every Eventuality PR and Marketing.

Jo told Completely Bromsgrove: “One of my first challenges was the Landmark Appeal in 2003-4 when we raised £650,000 for the Grade I listed St John’s Church in the heart of Bromsgrove.

“We were fortunate to obtain a large slice of the money from an English Heritage funding scheme specifically for listed churches, but the overall success of the Appeal was thanks to the generosity of the local community who supported fundraising events and undertook their own initiatives. We broke the large challenge into manageable chunks – an approach which proved to be highly successful.

From a small acorn grew a full tree!”

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Working alongside her father David, a well-respected figure in the town owing to his contributions to the Bromsgrove Carnival, The Bromsgrove Society and Bromsgrove Court Leet, Jo found herself naturally drawn to these organisations. A Landmark Appeal fundraising event at Bromsgrove School held in conjunction with the Court Leet helped to develop that connection with an event which continues to be held, sadly falling victim to Covid this year.

Jo is keen to support the Arts in Bromsgrove and works with the Orchestra of St John to help promote their concerts, she’s a key member of the Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful group and has been the Vice Chairman of The Bromsgrove Society since 2015.

Remarkably she still finds time for another passion, competition hot air ballooning! As the Chief Official for the British Hot Air Balloon Competitions Club, Jo has jetted all over the world. She has been part of the scoring team at World and European Championship events, working as a pilot observer or scorer.

Jo said: “This is the par t of my life which gets me up at silly o’clock as the competition balloon flights take place at daybreak and the evening flight launches shor tly before sunset.

“It’s a long day, but it is well worth it, the colourful scenes and international friendship is wonderful. I’ve been lucky to travel as far afield as Japan, America and, closer to home, many parts of Europe including Austria and Luxembourg.”

At the end of her chat with Completely Bromsgrove, Jo reflected on the events of 2020 and what the future may hold post-pandemic.

“Covid-19 has cer tainly flipped 1,000 years of history on its head,” she said.

“Most of our long-standing traditional events have had to move on-line, and sadly the latest fundraising project at St John’s has been put on hold. The option to apply for £1.2 million pounds from the Heritage Lottery Fund has been withdrawn due to reallocation of funding to support the heritage sector during the pandemic. We’re having to look at everything with new eyes and reflect on priorities. Personally, I continue to approach the challenges with optimism and develop new ways of working. I am passionate about our town, it’s heritage and its community, and I am keen to support local initiatives as much as I can.”

Completely Bromsgrove

17

HISTORY

The High Street of yesteryear

A

s we all emerge from lockdown, we’re becoming reacquainted with our High Street.

Here’s a look back at how a much-loved friend has changed over the years.

Bromsgrove’s High Street has received close attention from historians, to the extent that it must be one of the best-documented high streets in the country.

to the town in the fifties). And of course pubs, some of which, such as the Green Dragon, the Roebuck Inn and the Coach & Horses have long since disappeared.

In 1943 a photographic survey of the High Street was undertaken which captured pictures of all the premises from one end to the other. This extremely valuable survey now forms part of the Brotherton Collection and many of the photographs can be seen on the Bromsgrove Society website. Recently, the Society’s Local History Group compiled notes on every property in the High Street from the 18th century to the present day and produced a series of posters. These, too, are available on the Society’s website.

Church Street was mostly offices at that time. These included W.H. Scott & Sons and Thomas Horton & Son (both solicitors), the Halifax Building Society, the Bromsgrove Chamber of Trade, Refuge Assurance Co. and Britannic Assurance Co., and John Yelland & Co. accountants.

Local resident John Pugh wrote a detailed account of the High Street as he remembered it in 1948. At that time Thursday was half-day closing and Saturday was always a full day. Cars could be parked anywhere, but on alternate sides of the road depending on which day of the week it was. Shopkeepers were dismayed when on 1st September 1948 ‘No Waiting’ signs appeared.

A huge variety of retail businesses prospered: butchers, bakers, confectioners, drapers, grocers and others.

Even in the 1940s some still used a system of wires to transfer money to and from the cashier in little boxes.

Favourites included Wilson & Sons grocers, which had several premises, and Brighton’s shoe shop. There were also many banks and financial institutions (though the Westminster Bank, a precursor of Nat West, only came

At the bottom end of the town was Market Place, which was where the High Street met St John Street, George Street and Worcester Street. A popular shop here was Shrimpton and Cooke, a bookseller, stationery shop and post office run by the Cooke sisters. Nextdoor was Bromsgrove’s best known chemist, A. Terence Hall. He had a cure for everything and his ‘mixtures’ were always personally dispensed. Norman Vine’s drapery shop and the George Hotel were other landmarks.

At No. 58 High Street was De Grey’s, a café and small hotel. This had a cake and bread counter on the ground floor: Kunzle’s cakes were a favourite at the time, many of them rich in chocolate. Beyond the counter and up a few steps was the café itself, a popular morning coffee venue. The story of De Greys is told in The Dear Watsons, a novel written by Lynne Birch, the granddaughter of the café’s owners, which is based on true events - available from the Bromsgrove Society website: www.bsoc.co.uk

by Mike Sharpe

Photographs courtesy of Brotherton Collection

18 Completely Bromsgrove

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Car parking app launched as charges return A

n app to enable shoppers and workers in Bromsgrove to pay for their parking remotely is set to be introduced from August 3rd, alongside reinstated parking charges.

Parking charges were suspended following the Prime Minister’s lockdown announcement in March but are now being reinstated as shops and restaurants begin reopening with social distancing measures in place.

In light of the current pandemic, the introduction of ‘pay by app’ gives people a cash free, contactless option. Users will however, be able to choose how they pay for their parking and can do this via the new Mi Permit App or pay by cash if they prefer.

Full risk assessments have been carried out ahead of the reinstatement and sites will be regularly cleaned. Signs relating to social distancing and hand-sanitising or washing guidelines will also be around to remind users to stay safe.

Permit users can now renew via the council website or over the phone through the Customer Services Team.

NHS and social care workers will not have to pay when charges are introduced, as long as their relevant passes are displayed at council pay and display sites.

Visitors can download and access the Bromsgrove Mi Permit app for free on their phones or tablets via both android and iOS app stores from July 31st. More information is available at: www.mipermit.com/

Bromsgrove District Council leader Karen May said: “With shops and restaurants reopening and parking charges returning across the district from August 3rd, I am pleased that we are able to offer our residents the choice to pay using a contactless system or in the usual way, depending on what they feel is safest.

“We are one of the last local authorities in Worcestershire to reinstate the charges and the income from parking makes up a noticeable slice of our income which allows us to maintain our car parks, so that they are safe and in good repair, and spend our budget on services for all of our residents to enjoy instead.”

The app will not be available for visitors parking in Asda Car Park and Churchfields Car Park due to these machines operating on a separate, non-compatible system. Hand sanitiser will be available at these pay on foot car parks for visitors to use once they have touched the pay stations.

More details on car parking charges are available on the council website: www.bromsgrove.gov.uk Completely Bromsgrove

19

Horse sanctuary launches fundraising campaign A horse sanctuary in Wythall needs to raise £10,000 to stay afloat after being severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Healing Horse Sanctuary must raise the five-figure sum to pay outstanding bills and to enable them to continue their work until they can reopen to the public.

ourselves in a position where we need to raise £6,500 to pay outstanding hay bills, food merchants, vet bills and rent.”

A self-funded charity staffed by unpaid volunteers, the sanctuary is home to 20 horses and ponies rescued locally.

Founder Susie Gessey said: “We’ve all been affected in one way or another by the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown.

Susie said that another £3,500 to £4,000 is needed to support the sanctuary for the next couple of months as there is no government plan to allow it to reopen and hold open days and other fundraising events. It is therefore issuing an urgent plea for £10,000 to help it continue its work.

“Most people haven’t been able to leave their homes but we’re thrilled that our dedicated team of volunteers have continued to look after our horses and ponies during challenging times.

“All monies raised and donated will go directly to our horses and any donation big or small is massively appreciated by all the horses, ponies, volunteers and trustees,” she said.

“We usually raise more than the minimum £2,000 per month needed to keep our sanctuary open by various fundraising events including open days and visitors.

The sanctuary has linked up with Charity Checkout to launch its campaign.

“None of this has been possible and we now find

20 Completely Bromsgrove

To make a donation, visit: www.thehealinghorsesanctuary.enthuse. com/cf/urgent-appeal

Advertisement Feature

Senior Snippets – Caring Technologies

W

elcome to Senior Snippets: the monthly advisory column with the older members of our community in mind, brought to you by Annie Dixon-Dunn of Home Instead Senior Care Redditch & Bromsgrove.

In this instalment, I will be talking to you about technology and some technologies that we have found to be beneficial to our clients and community enabling them to stay connected during this period of disruption caused by COVID19.

A recent study shows that 88% of elderly people are connected to the internet, and that 73% of people admit that they have been in touch with elderly relatives more over the past few months than they have the whole year.

Here are some of our favourite technologies to use: Zoom. Zoom is an amazing, handy little app that can be downloaded to your mobile phone or tablet and can also be used on your laptop. Zoom it can be used by both Apple and Android users. More than one person can join a Zoom meeting, making it great for family get togethers. It is free to download and free up to 40 minutes for meetings with more than one person.

Facetime. Facetime is a video call that connects users via video link, who use Apple products. So this service is perfect for those of you out there who own iPads. This is completely free and again can host multiple people at once as long as they have an Apple product.

Facebook Portal. This product requires a one off investment to purchase the portal box, however the benefit is that you do not need any additional products – just

connection to the internet. This makes the Facebook Portal perfect for elderly relatives who want to connect with family but don’t own a mobile phone or tablet device.

Technology is also becoming ever more prominent in the way we care for our loved ones, and not just for staying in touch. From subtle sensors around the house which ensures that your loved one is safe at home, to discreet personal alarms which links to an emergency resolution team.

In this world of ‘new normal’ it is important that we embrace technology, especially as it helps to connect and care for those around us.

I would love to hear from you, if you have a suggestions for how best to support the local community or you have suggestions for a topic please write to me at annie.dixondunn@homeinstead.co.uk. Alternatively, you can also call me (Annie) on 01564 741620.

Live Well, Stay Safe We do more than just Care: Shopping for essentials and packing away for you Cleaning and disinfecting of high touch surfaces

Picking up medication and support prescription requirements Posting letters to keep in touch with loved ones Helping use technology to video chat with families Home Care is Safe Care DBS checked, PPE trained, professional CAREGivers visit at a time that suit you and always stay for at least an hour.

Currently taking on new clients in: Studley l Alcester l Henley in Arden l Redditch l Bromsgrove l Rubery l Rednal l Northfield Personal Care Home Help Companionship Dementia Care

We’re here to help find the right care for you and your loved ones.

To find out more call us on

01564 741 620 / 01527 810 855 Visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/rb Completely Bromsgrove

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Free education for 3-4 year olds at Winterfold W interfold School in Chaddesley Corbett, Worcestershire is delighted to announce that it will be providing 30 free hours of education to the 3-4 year olds of working families* through the government funded scheme.

Set in the idyllic countryside overlooking the Malvern hills, Winterfold’s forty acres encompass beautiful grounds, gardens and sports fields.

There is a relaxed, happy atmosphere at Winterfold.

Following their time at Nursery, children start in Kindergarten 1 and move through the year making firm friendships, progressing to Kindergarten 2 and Reception. Children learn through play and where a child is ready, more structured learning opportunities are put in place. At Winterfold, children have the added benefit of a teacher and assistants from a young age.

By September, the Kindergarten will have undergone a complete refurbishment, with a new seating area and separate space for eating. There will be an outside play area for messy play, home corner and quiet area, the children will have use of an ActivPanel and the room will have completely new furnishings.

22 Completely Bromsgrove

There is also a newly developed Forest School with a huge pond in which children can do pond dipping, a shelter for activities, fire pit and bird hide. Plans are afoot to plant an orchard and woodland of which the children will be an integral part, as they watch the trees they have planted grow with them - a lasting legacy.

Headmistress Denise Toms said “The pre-school years are an important time in children’s lives when they first learn how to interact with other children, teachers and parents and begin to develop their own interests. By introducing the 30 free hours, we are able to broaden the access to a Winterfold education.”

Winterfold provides excellent pastoral care which develops fulfilled, happy and successful children, who leave the School as confident young people, ready to face senior school and the wider world.

For more information, contact Mrs Jayne Gwillam, Admissions Manager on 01562 777234 or email admissions@winterfoldhouse.co.uk

‘HoW’ to support apprentices with the ‘new normal’ H

eart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) have recently been exploring just ‘HoW’ to support their prospective apprentices prepare for studying and working in the ‘new normal’.

Over the past few weeks, HoW College have implemented a number of methods to assist students looking to embark on the next leg of their educational journey and begin an apprenticeship. In place of a physical open event, the College hosted a virtual talk where members of the team explained the process of applying for an apprenticeship, which apprenticeships the College offers, and a summary of the programme. HoW then followed up with a phone call to each person that attended the event to find out more about them, what they want to do and how the College can support them. Staff also explained what it is like working in specific industries, such as construction and IT. HoW have additionally carried out mock interviews to help prepare prospective apprentices with applying for apprenticeships and provided feedback and tips to help them in the future.

Apprenticeships combine a nationally recognised standard with on the job training, giving apprentices the opportunity to study whilst also gaining valuable (and paid) work experience. With HoW College, anyone can register their interest or apply for an apprenticeship via the College website. A member of their apprenticeships team, also known as Solutions, will then contact those interested to complete a personal profile, review any apprenticeship vacancies that might be suitable, and provide advice on how to navigate the National Apprenticeship Service. The team will also continue to offer their support and guidance throughout the programme.

The College currently offers a variety of apprenticeships from levels 2 – 5, and have recently launched a range of new apprenticeship standards in response to local demand; including Infrastructure Technician, Digital Marketing, Human Resource Support, Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician (Light Vehicle).

Such an uncertain and unprecedented time can be quite overwhelming when looking to begin the next stage of your education, but with resources such as those on offer at HoW College, you needn’t worry.

If you’d like to find out more about the apprenticeships on offer at HoW College you can get in touch directly with their Solutions team, take a look at the Apprenticeships page on their website, or alternatively watch their virtual talk to start learning about all things apprenticeships. Simply follow the links below to find these resources: Solutions Team: Email – solutions@howcollege.ac.uk Phone – 01905 743435 Apprenticeships page: www.howcollege.ac.uk/ solutions/ Apprenticeships Virtual Talk: www.howcollege.ac.uk/ about/virtual-open-events/ Register your interest for an apprenticeship through the College’s AIMS system: heartofworcestershire.bksbaims. co.uk

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Is lack of sleep affecting your health?

S

leep plays an important role in your physical health. For example, with a lack of sleep we see heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and strokes and with these diseases increasing we need to consider if our sleep patterns are part of the cause.

They are also finding that with sleep deficiency we get the increased risk of obesity.

Sleep also affects how your body reacts to insulin, the hormone that controls your blood glucose (sugar) level. Sleep deficiency results in a higher than normal blood sugar level, which may increase your risk for diabetes.

Sleep also supports healthy growth and development. Deep sleep triggers the body to release the hormone that promotes normal growth in children and teens.This hormone boosts muscle mass and helps repair cells and tissues in children, teens, and adults as well as playing a major role in puberty and fertility.

Therefore, it is so important to remove phones and computers from the bedroom so you can get a good night’s sleep.

Your immune system relies on sleep to stay healthy.

This system defends your body against foreign or harmful substances. Ongoing sleep deficiency can change the way in which your immune system responds.

For example, if you are sleep deficient, you may have trouble fighting common infections. When our sleep is in a healthy balance it helps to keep our hormones in balance as well as our immune system.

Getting enough quality sleep at the right times helps you function well throughout your day. People who are sleep deficient are less productive at work and school. When you are sleep deficient it takes you longer to finish tasks, you have a slower reaction time, and more mistakes are made.

After several nights of losing sleep-even a loss of just 1–2 hours per night-your ability to function suffers as if you have not slept for one or two days. Lack of sleep also may lead to microsleep.

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The problem with microsleep, you cannot control it and you may not be aware of it. For example, have you ever driven somewhere and then not remembered part of the trip? If so, you may have experienced microsleep.

How sleepy do you feel during the day?

Sleep deficiency can cause you to feel very tired during the day.You may not feel refreshed and alert when you wake up.

Sleep deficiency can interfere with work, school, driving, and social functioning.You might be sleep deficient if you often feel like you could doze off while: • Sitting and reading or watching TV • Sitting still in a public place, such as a movie theatre, meeting, or classroom • Riding in a car for an hour without stopping • Sitting and talking to someone • Sitting quietly after lunch • Sitting in traffic for a few minutes Sleep deficiency can cause problems with learning, focusing, and reacting.The signs and symptoms of sleep deficiency may differ between children and adults. Children who are sleep deficient might be overly active and have problems paying attention.They also might misbehave, and their school performance can suffer. Sleep-deficient children may feel angry and impulsive, have mood swings, feel sad or depressed, or lack motivation.

If you often feel very sleepy, and efforts to increase your sleep have not helped, talk with your doctor, or talk to me as I may have an answer. colette@need4change.com

Black suits only 1 in 4 of us!

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earing black doesn’t make us look truly slimmer and over quarter of us actually don’t suit black. There I’ve said it. But before you run to the hills, we all have neutrals that look incredible on us and wearing these, and the other colours that truly suit us, can be transformative and suppress our need to wear black.

Whilst black absorbs light so less detail is detected by the eye in the hope that lumps or bumps may appear to disappear, what actually makes us look slimmer is wearing the right colours because this draws the eye up to a face which looks radiant and healthy, so the focus is no longer on the body and its wobbly bits.

Black is also often worn at work in the hope that it symbolises professionalism, prestige and power, however, is it memorable? Black on the wrong person will drain us and make us look unhealthy, whilst wearing the right colours and styles makes us look attractive and glowing and we feel good about ourselves. I’m not demonising black, it looks gorgeous on some people. It’s just that it only looks good on just over 25% of us, the ‘Winters.

The Swiss artist Johannes Itten established that each of us has a basic skin pigment which falls into four groupings, defined by the unique combination of depth, hue and tone. At House of Colour we determine which colours suit us by the pigments in our skin and eye colour. We all fall into one of the four seasonal categories which have an array of gorgeous colours that look amazing on you and some of these will be your wow colours. ‘Autumns’ are best suited to muted, soft, warm colours such as rust, and dark olive. ‘Springs’ look best in bright, clear, warm colours such as geranium pink and apple green. ‘Summers’ wear muted, soft, cool colours like dusty pink and smoked grape. ‘Winters’ wear bright, clear, cool colours like electric blue and raspberry, and yes they are the ones that can wear black!

It is not about wearing a rainbow of bright colours but choosing the right colours that suit us, not those that look good on someone else. Great quality neutrals ooze style kudos especially using a pop of colour. We all have our own wow colours that always look amazing when worn close to our face. Even the wrong lipstick will drain us, but the right colour will make our complexion glow and can lift your whole look. Once you know what colours suit you, you can successfully make unlikely pairings and change things up a little bit if that is your style personality.

My 5 best ways to be bold with colour 1. Use colour to look vibrant and radiant, this includes the neutrals that suit you. When you think colour, think both contrast and combinations.

2. It is true that once you know your colours, most of us need to do a spring clean of our

wardrobes, but after that every piece should work effortlessly together meaning you can be more eco-friendly and don’t need an endless supply of new items. Instead boost your wardrobe with gorgeous accessories as the icing on the cake.

3. We all have a colour that we wished suited us, but we feel healthy and radiant when we are wearing the colours that best suit us.

4. Primary red is the only colour that suits every skin tone because it is neither yellow nor blue toned.

5. Know that colours are thought to be over 60% responsible for our first

by Jane Brook

www.houseofcolour/janebrook

impressions of one another. For those of us who are more conservative at work, use good quality neutrals for professional kudos. A pop of colour can have the final say.

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St Michael and All Angels, Stoke Prior Bromsgrove wins National Lottery support

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he National Lottery Heritage Fund has announced its support for the repairs and improved accessibility at an historic Grade I listed 12th Century Church in Stoke Prior Bromsgrove.

The Friends of the Church have been working tirelessly for four years to raise the necessary partnering funds for the project. They were delighted to have been advised in June 2020 that the fund had agreed to the project. The biggest restoration work since that done by the Victorians can now get underway.

The project aims to repair damage that the Church has suffered over its life including tower masonry that became detached in the Autumn of 2014. The project will also improve the access to the church bringing it fully compliant with the Equalities Act. The Revd. Canon Wyn Beynon, since his appointment as Priest in Charge, has repeatedly stated that all should be able to access the church without the need for any help.

The project will see essential repair work being done. During the project history talks will be given by the Revd. Canon Wyn Beynon and Friends of the Church. The varied and interesting history of St Michael and All Angels will be published in two new guidesbooks, the second of which will be for

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younger visitors. An educational programme is also planned that give volunteers new skills in how to look after an historic building. In partnership with the Parish Council a noticeboard and interpretation panel will be installed in the conservation area of the Churchyard. This will show the abundance of wildlife there is and the variety of trees that can be admired.

The Church has become a focal point for the local community. This has been made possible by the Friends of the Church who have arranged a variety of fundraising events over the past four years. They plan to continue these with more exciting events already planned for the remainder of 2020 and 2021! This is to ensure the community benefit and are rewarded from what is an historic beautiful Church.

Commenting on the award, the Revd. Canon , Wyn Beynon said: “We’re delighted that we’ve received this support thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

With this support and the help of the community, we will be able to carry out the essential repairs to the church. It is particularly pleasing that we will be able to change the entrance into the church so that all can

access and leave unaided. Thank you to everyone that have helped us on our journey and for your continued support. We will with this help be able to look forward to seeing St Michael and All Angels removed from the Heritage at Risk Register thanks to money raised by National Lottery players”.

Anne Jenkins, Director, England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, added: “Thanks to National Lottery Players, we are delighted to award St Michael and All Angels with a grant that not only carries out urgent repairs, but will ensure it is preserved for the community for years to come, with work hopefully leading to the church no longer being listed as Heritage at Risk. By improving accessibility for the church as well as creating resources aimed at new audiences we hope that the St Michael and All Angels will see many new visitors walk through its doors. We have been very proud to invest in Worcestershire’s heritage over the years in order for it to be showcased far and wide.” www.heritagefund.org.uk

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Top tips to keep your pets cool in warmer weather W hen temperatures rise it is important to take extra care of our pets to prevent them overheating and becoming unwell.

Blue Cross has compiled these tips for keeping pets cool: • Avoid walking your dog in the middle of the day when it is at its hottest and avoid any strenuous games; • Make sure your pet has access to clean water at all times; • Place your palm on the ground for five seconds, if it’s too hot for you it could burn your pets’ paws; • Light coloured pets can get sunburnt which can lead to skin cancer.

Keep pale furred pets indoors or in the shade.You can also apply a non-toxic human sunscreen or one for pets to vulnerable areas like ears and noses; • Pets with thick fur will need regular grooming to prevent them overheating; • Make sure small pets’ housing and runs are in the shade and pets are kept clean; • Make ice cubes with your pet’s favourite treat inside; • Have a paddling pool with cool water in the garden for dogs to play in.

If you suspect your animal is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool place, dampen their coat with tepid water on a towel and contact a vet immediately. Avoid overcooling, especially small pets.

Seasonal concerns over kittens Many pet owners may not know that cats can become pregnant as young as just four months old.

Warmer weather tends to see cats breeding more predominantly and during the summer months Blue Cross takes in many pregnant mums, mums with litters and even litters whose mum has left them and who need hand feeding around the clock.

With lockdown this year and few vets able to neuter cats, Blue Cross is expecting even more kittens than usual over the coming months, with more than 200 admitted to date.

Neil Edwards, centre manager at Blue Cross in Bromsgrove, said: “We are already seeing unplanned, unwanted litters of kittens handed over. We recently took in a litter of four found in a box under an underpass, plus a new one-year-old mum with her litter of kittens. They are now in the safe hands of foster carers until they can find homes of their own.”

Please keep unneutered cats inside until you can take them to the vet for the procedure.

If you are concerned about a stray or abandoned litter contact the Blue Cross in Bromsgrove on 0300 777 1460 or email bromsgrove@bluecross.org.uk.

To find out about pets looking for homes at Bromsgrove or to make a donation towards their care, visit www.bluecross.org.uk

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RECIPE

Syllabub trifle T

his pudding has every right to be a little full of itself.

Layer upon layer of brandy, rum, creamy custard, fruit, amaretti biscuits and Madeira cake is finally topped with a smug lemon syllabub and a cluster of roses. A pud with a well-deserved ego.

Serves 10 For the syllabub grated zest and juice of 1 lemon 150ml/5fl oz dry or medium white wine 1 heaped tablespoon icing sugar 700ml/1¼ pints double cream

Method: For the syllabub, combine the lemon zest and juice, white wine and icing sugar in a small bowl. Set aside for 2 hours.

Mix the custard with the orange zest.

Place half the cake at the bottom of a 2.3 litre/4 pint deep glass serving dish and pour over the sherry. Toss the raspberries on top. Now add the amaretti biscuits, pour over the brandy or rum and place the strawberries on top. Now pour over the custard and top with the rest of the cake.

Make the syllabub by loosely whipping the cream and adding the lemon and wine mixture gradually to it. Now, just be a bit careful at this stage – when you add lemon juice to cream it does tend to thicken it quite quickly, and you want this syllabub to be the same consistency as the custard – not overwhipped and stiff. You still want some movement in it.

Spoon the syllabub over the cake, piled on top. When you are putting the trifle together, try to show the different layers throughout, this makes for a lovely tall trifle with lots of colour.

Decorate with the roses – just popped on top like a little bouquet. It turns this trifle into a centrepiece, which looks fabulous on a summer table.

For the trifle 1 x 500ml carton fresh custard grated zest of 1 large orange 1 ready-made Madeira cake or Swiss roll, thinly sliced 5 tablespoons sherry 450g/1lb raspberries 250g/9oz amaretti biscuits 5 tablespoons brandy or rum 450g/1lb strawberries, hulled and quartered 5 fresh roses, to decorate Lotte’s tips I call this trifle the cheat’s version because it is literally assembled in minutes from easily available ingredients. You can make your own cake and custard, but honestly, you don’t need to. When this pudding is put together all the flavours merge and I really believe you can’t taste the difference.

And as you know, I’m all for spending time with my friends when they come for a meal, not slaving away in the kitchen.

www.lovebritishfood.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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Tel: 01527 874526 149 Golden Cross Lane, Catshill, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B61 0JZ

Join us....

Design

Print

&

Specialists in Digital Printing

sales@bromsgroveprinting.co.uk www.bromsgroveprinting.co.uk 01527 873181

We source the best produce possible!

From Farmers and Producers who give you AMAZING GRAZING!

Our philosophy is simple: “Constantly in the pursuit of excellence” Master Butcher

Duncombes

14 Worcester Road Bromsgrove B61 7AE

This advert should be upside down!

CANTO MANDO CHINESE RESTAURANT BROMSGROVE Tel: 01527 864 008

WE ARE HAPPY TO ANNOUCE OUR RE-OPENING, AND CUSTOMERS CAN NOW DINE IN WITH US In regards to COVID new safety measures will be applied, and we politely ask customers to adhere with us. Guidelines can be viewed on our Facebook page.

Takeaway and delivery will continue.

44 Worcester Road Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 7AE CANTOMANDOBROMSGROVE

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www.cantomandobromsgrove.co.uk

A NEW Giles family venture!

Riverside Carvery & Country Inn

Extensively refurbished ...pop in and see for yourself.

Mon - Wed Lunch 12noon - 2.30pm PLUS Mon - Sat evening 6pm - 9pm A La Carte Menu available Thurs - Sat Lunch 12noon - 2.30pm PLUS Mon - Sat 6pm - 9pm Serving our amazing Carvery Sunday 12noon - 6pm Ultimate Sunday Carvery BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL AT ALL TIMES.

Holt Fleet, Worcester WR6 6NN

Tel: 01905 620337

The Giles’ Carvery...

Everyone is talking about it!

3 Course Carvery is back! £10 per person Mon. to Sat. Lunch 12 noon - 2pm Dinner 6pm - 9pm

Senior Citizens Carvery £6.95 per person Monday to Saturday lunchtime 12 noon - 2pm

ULTIMATE Sunday Carvery Bookings essential 12 noon - 6pm

Registered For The ‘Eat Out To Help Out’ Scheme £10 OFF PER PERSON Mon - Wed BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL AT ALL TIMES.

The Fox Inn

Lower Chaddesley DY10 4QN Tel: 01562 777247 e-mail: thefoxchaddesley@outlook.com www.thefoxinnchaddesley.co.uk Images by hodgkissphotography.co.uk at greatestbritish.org

THE

CROSS INN a� Finstal�

NCING SOCIAL DISTA

PLIED MEASURES AP

Ryan and his team would like to welcome, all of our customers past, and present, to enjoy our beers in socially distanced surroundings. Complete Covid-19 risk assessments, have been carried out, to comply with the government’s current guidelines, to ensure the safety of our customers and staff. We have a full range of 10 real ales and cider, lager and a selection of wines and spirits. Fresh cobs are available daily. The outside drink area, has been extended, and additional furniture added, so that you can enjoy your favourite tipple, in the sunshine.

The Cross Inn, Alcester Rd, Finstall B60 1EW Tel: 01527 577328

NCING SOCIAL DISTA

PLIED MEASURES AP

It’s great to be open, we have finally managed to re-open the Hanbury Turn after completing a major refurbishment.

We hope that you will be pleased with the traditional theme of the pub, along with 12 guest ales and ciders there will be fresh cobs and other bar snacks available daily . Gary, Sandra and their team can’t wait to welcome you so that you can sample some of the changing guest beers that they have on sale alongside our regular Black Country Ales.

The Hanbury Turn, Stoke Heath B60 4LU Tel: 01527 839539

Avoncroft Museum re-opens to visitors B

romsgrove’s popular open air tourist attraction Avoncroft Museum has reopened to visitors following the introduction of appropriate safety measures.

Over the last few weeks, the independent charity has been hard at work to make the site ready and as safe as possible for visitors.

Initially the museum will be re-opening its grounds on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays only and visitors will need to go to Avoncroft’s website to book tickets online in advance, as per most other attractions.

The Covid-19 pandemic has not only deprived people of the opportunity to visit Avoncroft, England’s first open-air museum, but has also shattered their finances with no tickets being sold and popular events having to be cancelled.

Nick Sturgess, acting deputy director, said: “We can’t wait to welcome visitors back to Avoncroft. We’ve really missed seeing people enjoy our grounds and buildings. From the messages of suppor t we have received, we know many people are keen to visit too.

“However, we’ve not rushed into this and have developed a comprehensive re-opening plan to ensure our guests feel safe on-site.

You will therefore see a few changes such as Perspex screens in the shop, a one-way system around the site and advanced booking online.

“Once things are up and running, we hope to be able to quickly re-open the Tea Room for takeaway drinks and snacks as well as some of our larger historic buildings. Then we’ll look at phasing even more back in. Our main priority though is to keep you safe whilst still providing a great visitor experience.”

Visitors will also be requested to wear face masks in the shop, but these will not be required when exploring the grounds.

The 19-acre museum, which has a collection of more than 30 historic buildings from across the Midlands is also home to the National Collection of Telephone Kiosks.

For more information about Avoncroft Museum and to book your tickets please visit www.avoncroft.org.uk or email collections@avoncroft.org.uk

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Severn Arts summer arts activities online offer T

here are free Summer Activities for the family on offer from Severn Arts, a member of Bromsgrove Arts Alive. An online game, humorous and emotional videos, visual representations of our current time, animations, music quizzes and games and guides all feature in our newly available collection of work on the Severn Arts website www.severnarts.org.uk under ‘what we offer’.

Using grants awarded by Severn Arts and Worcestershire County Council, 20 Worcestershire artists have each made work focusing on the theme #CreativeConnections. Each piece is very different from the other but all have an overriding feeling of positivity - highlighting blossoming relations, friendships, community spirit, hope and joy. Islands in the Sky www.severnarts.org.uk/islandsin-the-sky is a fun interactive game for children, featuring the room designs of over 150 local children and the latest addition to the collection is the film ‘On the Surface of the World’ created by Inter-Act – an inclusive workshop programme run by Reaction Theatre Makers www.severnarts.org.uk/onthe-surface-of-the-world You can see all of the #CreativeConnections work online on the website and you’ve still time to contribute to the Pic-a-Primrose project. This project is all about connecting people who are isolated and invites you to upload (family-friendly) photographs on the themes of care, compassion and community

34 Completely Bromsgrove

to their online gallery. Find out more and upload photographs to www.moosecatcreative.com/ gallery A further nine local musicians, again funded by Severn Arts, have created work focusing on the theme #KeepMakingMusic. All ages are invited to take part in the activities which include finding out more about pulse, beat and rhythm, testing your music knowledge, having fun in a creative rhythm session using upcycled instruments or even writing a song in a day!

Once on the Severn Arts website, you can explore and learn more about their work in the area and find all sorts of resources for parents/carers and teachers.

If you want to be one of the first to know about new activities you can add your name to the Severn Arts mailing list. Enjoy a Creative Summer!

Grab your popcorn for movies in the park

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lue Sky Cinema’s drive in movies are coming to Sanders Park, Bromsgrove from August 7th to 9th and August 21st to 23rd.

A mix of classics from the 1980s and 90s as well as the latest blockbusters will be displayed on two giant LED screens during the day and into the evening, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy family films, romcoms and action movies from the safety of your own car.

With 18 films showing over six days, there is something for everyone whether you prefer sing-alongs like Mamma Mia, Grease and The Bodyguard, more recent films including Joker and Rocketman or family favourites like Back to the Future and Jurassic Park.

A family of four can enjoy the movie in their car for as little as £22 (including booking fees), with the knowledge that social distancing guidelines are built into the experience and if you are the designated driver, a free bottle of water is available. If you work for the NHS,

emergency services or the local authority, you can enjoy a movie for all occupants of a car, for £11 (ID required).

Food and refreshments can be pre-ordered including a Retro Box, which takes customers back in time with candy floss, popcorn and sweets from the 80s, or for those looking to enjoy a “Gourmet” experience, there will be handmade crisps, toffee popcorn, raspberry ripple marshmallows and Belgium chocolates, Prosecco and - for the designated driver - fresh orange juice.

Ian Taylor, managing director of Blue Sky Cinema, thanked Bromsgrove District Council for the opportunity to bring movie experiences to local people at Sanders Park.

For more information, visit Blue Sky Cinema’s Facebook page or email info@blueskyoutdoor.co.uk

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Historic Hanbury Hall gardens and parkland

H

anbury Hall has reopened its gates for visitors to the gardens and parkland after being closed during lockdown. Make the most of those extra hours of sunshine this summer with a family stroll around the beautiful gardens at Hanbury Hall. Our gardens are at their peak during the warmer months, with striking colours and scents to take in, and wildlife in abundance.

Summer is also a great time to pull on your adventurers’ hat and explore the parkland – you never know what bugs and beasties you might find amongst the undergrowth and you’ll find plenty of space to run around and let off steam.

Visitors can pitch up a picnic on one of the many lawns or pick up a tasty treat from our Stables Café, open until 4.30pm daily. Don’t forget the afternoon ice cream, with plenty of yummy flavours to choose from.

Pre-bookings are now operating for visitors hoping to enjoy a stroll through the National Trust gardens and park. An advanced booking system has been introduced in a bid to help manage visitor numbers

and maintain safe, social distancing. All visitors must book in advance, even if they are members, with tickets being released every Friday for the week ahead.

The Gardens, Parkland and Stables Café are open daily, 9.30am5pm, for pre-booked visits booked via the Hanbury website: www. nationaltrust.org.uk/hanbury-hall-and-gardens.

Normal admission applies, National Trust members and under 5s are free. *Please note that the shop, main tearoom, visitor reception building and hall itself all remain closed until further notice. We currently only accept card payment in the Stables Café.

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Sporting still waiting for start of the season W

ork continues during the close season and lockdown at the Victoria Ground to get everything ready for the new season whenever it comes about.

However, planning is difficult if not impossible but the Club will at least will be re-opening the Rouslers’ Bar shortly taking into account Government advice and rules for licensed premises. In addition all clubs in the Southern League have to draw up match day plans for how crowds will be managed given current distancing guidelines. Once complete they will be published on the Club’s web site along with opening times for the Bar when it is hoped to show some televised matches on the big screen.

As things stand it is envisaged that a crowd of just over 1000 could be safely accommodated for matches. As for when the season will start? That is still going to be several weeks away and certainly no earlier than mid-September.

Kidderminster Harriers after three loan spells.

Signing up for another season are a number of familiar faces that include club and team captain, Tom Taylor, defenders Jack Wilson, Kieren Westwood and Liam Spink, ‘keepers Max Beardmore and Daniel Platt along with midfielders Josh Quaynor, Will Shorrock, Charlie Dowd and Gift Mussa. Sweepercum-centre back Leon Broadhurst also finds himself on the retained list with prolific striker Mikey Taylor as well as youngsters Nathan Binner, Jake Marsden, Sam Collins and Tom Massey.

Kelly has also added to his management team bringing in experienced coach Ross Thorpe who arrives from League Two outfit Cheltenham Town.

The women’s team are currently training and will play their matches at the Victoria Ground on Sunday afternoons, once they have been given the green light to get started. They still have vacancies in the squad for anybody interested, enquiries to hello@ bromsgrovesporting.co.uk.

The lockdown however has not prevented manager Brendan Kelly from building his squad for the next campaign. Richard Gregory and Shaq McDonald have departed along with New Coach: Ross Thorpe winger Greg Mills but coming in are strikers Chris Lait from Tamworth and Jamie Gray Off the pitch, The Victoria Ground remains from Tolka FC, an amateur club based in Dublin. open every Tuesday from 11:00am to 12:00pm for Nathan Hayward returns from Stourbridge and brings donations to local food banks, who expect demand to with him Josh Ezewele a right back whilst centreincrease during the school holidays. back Harry Higginson makes a permanent move from

by Phil Baker

Chris Lait

Harry Higginson

Jamie Gray

Josh Ezewele Completely Bromsgrove

37

AVONCROFT CRICKET CLUB

Cricket is back but not as we know it!

W

hilst the last few months have brought with them far bigger issues for us all to deal with than the demise of village cricket, there was a mixture of great excitement and relief when the Prime Minister recently announced that recreational cricket could begin from 11th July. The financial consequences for small clubs would have been stark had there been no way of generating income for a full 12 months, not to mention the risk of players (especially younger ones) finding alternative things to do with their spare time.

Understandably, cricket will look slightly different in a socially distanced world. Pavilions are closed, so players will need to arrive and leave in their cricket whites, and there will be no teas (often felt to be the quintessential part of village cricket life!). Every 6 overs, players will stop to clean their hands and the ball and alterations have been made to enable 1 metre + distancing to be maintained. All that said, cricket is back and everyone at Avoncroft CC couldn’t be happier.

In a shortened season, even the competitions will look different this year. In order to reduce travelling, given the restrictions on car sharing, teams have been placed into regionalised leagues with other local clubs. Avoncroft’s 1st XI have been grouped with a strong set of opposition, including the 2nd XI’s from Bromsgrove, Barnt Green,

Astwood Bank and Redditch along with Himbleton 1st XI. Croft’s 2nd XI find themselves in a league with Cookhill 1st XI, Alvechurch, Five Ways and Himbleton 2nd XIs and Astwood Bank 4th XI. Junior cricket has also restarted, and information about signing up to this can be found on our website: www.avoncroftcc.co.uk As we all continue to come to grips with what life is like in a post-lockdown world, the opportunity is there for you all to have a wander down to your local cricket club on a weekend and remind yourselves about what things were like before the world was turned upside down. The “doors” (metaphorically if not yet physically) are always open!

by Paul Athey

Train passengers left stranded by service axe R

esidents of Barnt Green, Alvechurch and Redditch wishing to travel directly to and from Barnt Green to Bromsgrove, Droitwich Spa, Worcester and onwards will be up in arms by the decision of West Midlands Trains to discontinue the only remaining services enabling them to do so.

Previously there were two trains each way daily then the service was reduced to one train each way daily leaving Barnt Green at 8.07.a.m and Worcester at 4.22.p.m. It is now proposed by WMT that this service is scrapped in its forthcoming September timetable.

How short-sighted is this by WMT? The combined annual footfall of passengers using Barnt Green, Alvechurch and Redditch stations traveling both south to Worcester and beyond and north to University, Birmingham New Street and beyond is 1.6 million.

If this goes ahead, business people, visitors and commuters to Worcester and beyond and all students travelling from the three districts to study at RGS, The King’s School, Heart of Worcestershire College and the University of Worcester either will have to travel to Worcester by bus or car, with the extra expense and harmful environmental effects, or have to travel first to University Station to catch the trains going to Worcester which come back through Barnt Green, thus incurring extra time and expense.

Surely WMT should be trying to increase its revenue by offering and promoting an hourly service - as a minimum - to and from New Street to Hereford, stopping at Barnt Green, where people from Alvechurch and Redditch could catch it, Bromsgrove and onwards.

38 Completely Bromsgrove

Let’s put pressure on WMT and our district and county councillors to keep the present service and to increase it to an hourly service. It makes economic and environmental sense. www.bromsgroverail.org.uk

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