Completely Bromsgrove April '21 issue

Issue 28

April 2021

Completely

Bromsgrove

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W

elcome to the April issue of Completely Bromsgrove.

By the time you read this month’s magazine, the government’s road map to getting us back to a slightly more normal life will have progressed to step one with limited changes from March 29.

Outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households will be allowed, providing greater flexibility for families to see each other, including in private gardens. The clocks will have also gone forward an hour giving way to lighter evenings. With everything crossed, and the cooperation of everyone, let’s hope that there are brighter days ahead.

Our Women in Business feature this month has come home as we tell the media journey of our very own sub editor Teresa Green.

Teresa has worked in the media since 1987 when she joined the Bromsgrove Adver tiser/Messenger as a trainee reporter. Teresa really wanted to repor t on spor t and was able to fulfil this ambition after just nine months when she was appointed sports editor. Read more about Teresa’s journey on page 6.

Many of our readers will have heard about the ongoing saga with regards to the Perryfields Road development. If you think that such a large development will have an impact on Bromsgrove, Councillor Luke Mallett, county councillor for the west of Bromsgrove, is calling on you to sign the petition. See page 10 for further details.

Last, but certainly not least, we would like to congratulate Zoe Willem on her appointment as director of Avoncroft Museum of Buildings. I am sure all Completely Bromsgrove readers will join me in welcoming Zoe to Bromsgrove, and we all look forward to being able to start visiting the great attractions on our doorstep from the middle of this month.

10

Women in Business Our MP’s message Perryfields Road Worcs Wildlife Trust Composting Gardening Woodland Trust History

23 24 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34

Completely

Senior Snippets Age UK Travel Recipe Health and Wellbeing Community Group Council Tax Author, Ian Jukes Brew61 BARRUP Rail

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

4 Completely Bromsgrove

Michele Ford

18 32 35

Contents 6 8 10 12 16 18 20 22

I will finish by stating the obvious. Please continue to keep your distance, wear a mask and wash your hands.

Very best wishes,

35 36 38 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Education Waseley High School Bromsgrove School Norton Collection museum Avoncroft Museum Blue Cross pet care Attention Dog Walkers Avoncroft Cricket Club B’grove Sporting F.C. Primrose Hospice

Visit our Instagram or Facebook page and leave a comment, we would love to hear from you. www.facebook.com/completelybromsgrove

Sales: Michele Ford Tel: 07948 086870 Design: Matt Walton Design The contents of Completely Bromsgrove magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Completely Bromsgrove magazine.

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

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

A passion for storytelling F

rom writing poems and short stories for school competitions to drafting press releases for PR clients, storytelling has always been an important part of Teresa Green’s life.

As media relations partner at Worcestershire-based Chris Green Media (CGM), she works with businesses and organisations to tell their story, using the skills she learned as a journalist for more than 20 years.

After studying newspaper journalism in Cardiff, Teresa’s working life began as a trainee reporter at the Bromsgrove Advertiser/Messenger in 1987.

As well as the usual parish council meetings and weddings, she reported on boy band Bros appearing on Saturday morning TV live from Avoncroft Museum of Buildings and once worked a busy weekend shift at McDonald’s in the High Street.

“What I really wanted to report on was sport and fortunately the sports editor’s job came up after I’d only been working at the paper for nine months,” she said.

“Now I was one of just a handful of female sports editors in the UK, reporting on Bromsgrove Rovers’ matches in the Southern League and producing four pages full of sports results every week.

“Fortunately, my time at the Advertiser coincided with the most successful period in the club’s history as they finished second behind Wycombe Wanderers in their first season in the Vauxhall Conference and came within two minutes of beating Barnsley in the FA Cup third round. I also met my husband Chris when he was reporting on Rovers for BBC Hereford and Worcester.”

6 Completely Bromsgrove

Teresa won four national sports writing awards during her 13 years with the paper and among her colleagues was legendary chief reporter Pete Lammas.

“It used to take Pete ages to walk down the High Street every lunchtime because he knew so many people in the town and they kept coming up to him with stories.

The one I always remember is someone saying that their neighbour must have won the lottery because they’d been spotted buying ham instead of tongue in Asda!”

In 2000, Teresa moved to a sports writer’s role at the Sunday Mercury in Birmingham, reporting on Premier League and Championship football matches and Test cricket and compiling a monthly non-League football magazine, Grass Roots. She was then assistant editor of the Kidderminster Shuttle for six years, also branching out into travel journalism, before joining CGM in 2010.

“We’re proud to have been helping people with everything front facing about their business for more than ten years,” she said.

“Last year we moved our media training events and courses online and are committed to keeping them there until the end of 2021. We’ve also been busy editing books and recently finished updating the Welcome to Worcestershire guide Chris and I wrote for Kingfisher Visitor Guides two years ago. It will be so nice to visit some of the wonderful places we’ve featured – including Avoncroft of course – when restrictions are lifted.”

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A message from our MP

A

s I write this ar ticle, the news has just broken that more than half of adults across the UK have now been vaccinated. This is a monumental achievement and I want to thank the NHS, GPs, volunteers, local authorities and the army for their incredible work.

In Bromsgrove, all over 50s who had booked an appointment prior to March 20th have now been vaccinated. This phenomenal achievement shows what we can accomplish together – but the job is far from done. Next month, we will continue to vaccinate those most at risk and give around 12 million people their second dose.

Our safe and effective vaccines are the route out of this pandemic and we remain on course to meet our ambition to offer every adult a vaccine by the end of July. There will be challenges ahead, but by getting our vaccinations and continuing the work to prevent the spread of Covid-19, our community will get through this pandemic.

Earlier in March, the Chancellor delivered his Budget. I welcomed the steps he is taking to support businesses, manage the public finances and invest for the long term.

It is clear that in the short term, our first priority must be growth. The faster our economy bounces back, the easier it will be to manage our public finances.

I have been meeting with local businesses virtually throughout this crisis. I know how important the financial assistance has been and how crucial these businesses are to driving our economic recovery.

8 Completely Bromsgrove

More recently, I also spoke in the debate on the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. One of the measures the Bill introduced was to help strengthen police powers to tackle unauthorised encampments. I started this work when I was Home Secretary and I know many of my constituents have been negatively impacted by illegal sites in the past. I will continue to work on this issue on behalf of local residents.

As we look ahead, it is vital that we stick to the restrictions and guidance in place as we cautiously open up. As ever, I am ready to support any constituents who may need my assistance, so do get in touch via sajid.javid.mp@parliament.uk

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Approval for Perryfields Road development raises traffic fears Photo by Neil Pugh

D

espite more than 900 public objections and concerns raised by Whitford Vale Voice and the Bromsgrove Society, Bromsgrove District Council’s planning committee has granted outline permission for the Perryfields Road development.

The application by Taylor Wimpey will see 1,300 properties, a 200-bed extra care home, five hectares of employment land and a mixed-use centre of shops and community facilities created. Of the properties, 390 will be affordable homes and there will also be ten units for self-build.

A new first school will be built at a cost of £2.5million and more than £900,000 will go to South Bromsgrove High School to increase secondary school capacity.

There will also be public open space, recreation areas, sports pitches and a pavilion.

The planning committee heard that the plans did not include a relief road for Bromsgrove and would route existing and new vehicle trips through the town centre.

After the meeting, Councillor Luke Mallett, county councillor for the west of Bromsgrove, who has opposed the proposals for over a decade, said: “What Bromsgrove needs is a relief road and without it this development will create gridlock.

“Despite concerns about local health services no support is being provided to new GPs in Bromsgrove.

Every local resident knows how difficult it can be to get a doctors’ appointment now, why is a new GP surgery not being provided?

“Whitford Vale Voice and I will continue to campaign on behalf of the community on these issues as it moves forward to further planning meetings and the appeal.”

The Western Distributor Road will be discussed at the next council meeting and Mr Mallett is urging residents to sign the Relief Road petition: www.bit.ly/relief4bromsgrove

10 Completely Bromsgrove

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Completely Bromsgrove

Bumbling about I

love spring. I love watching the natural world come to life and I love spotting my first bumblebee of the year. The sound of a bumblebee buzzing fills my heart with joy - this tiny creature has made it through the winter and is ready to start her new family.

Who can resist these furry pollinators? When threatened, bumblebees would prefer to wave a leg at you (it looks like they’re high-fiving) rather than sting. They’re considerate too – as they visit a flower to grab a drink of nectar, they leave behind a scent so that other bees know not to waste their time at that particular flower.

Bumblebees are sociable, working together for their wider family. Queens spend the winter in hibernation (they mated last autumn) and when they wake they start to search for a suitable nest site. Location is everything but quite where this is depends on the species – abandoned mouse holes, under sheds, in compost heaps, at the base of tussocky grass and even in bird boxes.

Red-tailed bumblebee male

by Penny Frith

If you want to help but you’ve not got space to plant for pollinators, why not help us to know where our bees are.

This year, we’re asking the public to report sightings of redtailed bumblebees via a short form on our website www. worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wildlife-sightings Knowing where our bees are, and in what numbers, helps us to know how best to help them. Red-tailed bumblebees are one of the easiest to recognise and your sighting can be verified even by a blurry photograph. The queens and female workers are all black with a red tail whereas the males have the addition of a yellow collar on their neck and a really yellowy face.

When she’s selected her site, she builds two wax cups to store nectar and pollen before buzzing from flower to flower to collect these. Once settled into her nest, she won’t see the light of day again. The nectar will sustain her as she incubates her eggs and the initial pollen store feeds her first young ones. When these youngsters become adults (all female), they’ll head out and do the gathering while mum continues to lay eggs. Later in the season, the queen starts to produce males and another generation of queens.

Our wild bees are having a hard time but we can all help. If you’ve got space in your garden, at your allotment, on your patio or in a window box, make sure you’ve got pollen and nectar rich flowers to give them a boost – the larger the area you’ve got, the more variety and the longer flowering-season you’ll be able to offer. There’s lots of information on what you can plant on the wildlife gardening pages of our website.

Red-tailed bumblebee male by Harry Green

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 Red-tailed bumblebee queen by Kevin McGee

12 Completely Bromsgrove

Red-tailed bumblebee by Jon Hawkins SurreyHillsPhotography

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Completely Bromsgrove

15

Discover the benefits of composting

Approximately, only 1 in 4 households composts their green wa be composted. Along with other garden waste, this could pr material.

What is compost? Compost is made up of organic matter such broken down in the presence of air. The breakdown of the mat microscopic organisms as well as ants, worms and other mini-be

Discover the benefits of composting Discover the benefits of composting

Why compost? Each compost bin diverts 150kg of waste a year, user.

Where to put the bin The perfect position for a compost bin is Ideally, place your compost bin somewhere that is convenient to How to compost The golden rule is to get the right balance of

A

verytheir quickly) and browns are carbon-rich pproximately, only 1 in 4 households composts green waste,(which yet around 40% but take longe Approximately, only 1 in 4 households compostsgreen their or green 40% thecompost averagebin waste binbec foodwaste, waste,yet thearound contents of of your could of the average waste bin could be composted.

Along with other garden waste, be composted. Along with other garden waste, this could provide a garden with its own free, organic gro structure and airflow as well as helping to absorb excessive mois this could provide a garden with its own free, organic growing material. material.

What is compost? Compost is made up of organic matter GREENS BROWNS AVO Whatleaves, is compost?

Compost is has made up of organic matter such as fruit, vegetables, leaves, twigs and grass tha such as fruit, vegetables, twigs and grass that broken Grass clippings Straw Meat down in the presence of air.down The breakdown of theofmaterials broken in the presence air. The breakdown of the materials is carried out by millions of bacteria, fung Plant trimmings Pine needles Fish is carried out by millions of bacteria, fungi and microscopic microscopic organisms as well as ants, worms and other mini-beasts.

Weed stalks and leaves Wood chips Cooked foo organisms as well as ants, worms and other mini-beasts. (not roots or seeds)

Autumn Leaves

Bread

Crushed eggshells

Torn cardboard

Pasta

Paper towels

Thick wood

Why compost?Why Eachcompost? compost bin diverts 150kg waste a150kg of waste a year, creating free, top quality compost at the same t Each compost binofdiverts Raw fruit and veg scraps Wood prunings Bones year, creating free, top quality compost at the same time. user.

Where to put the bin The perfect position for a compost Hair Liquids (cus Sawdust bin is in partial sunWhere and shade, not the just bin oneThe or the other.position Ideally, for a compost bin is in partial sun and shade, not just one or the o to put perfect Poultry manure etc.)

Shredded or place your compostIdeally, bin somewhere is convenient to put that is convenient to put materials in and take the ready compost ou place yourthat compost bin somewhere Flower and plant remains scrunched paper Dairy produ materials in and take the ready compost out of.

How to compost golden rule to get the HowThe to compost Theis golden ruleright is to get the right balance of greens (whichEgg areboxes nitrogen-rich, moist and rotpld Diseased balance of greens (which are nitrogen-rich, andare rotcarbon-rich down very quickly) and brownsmoist (which but take longer to break down on their own).

If you add toowm Perennial Straw based manure very quickly) and browns are carbon-rich but take green or(which food waste, the contents of your compost bin could become slimy and smelly. Mixing browns to itseed prov Weed Vegetarian pet bedding longer to break down on their own). If you add too much green structure and airflow as well as helping to absorbCoffee excessive moisture.

Receipts grounds (loose) and tea bags (not plastic) or food waste, the contents of your compost bin could become slimy and smelly. Mixing browns to it provides structure and BROWNS DEFINITELY airflow as well as helping toGREENS absorb excessive moisture.

Heat and airAVOID When you add organic matter,NOT the compost bin he

Grass you clippings Meat(like egg boxes, scrunched Crisp packets up paper, browns etc.) the pr Heat and air When add organic matter,Straw the compost bin process Plant trimmings Pine needles Fish Plastic bags heats up as organisms get to work. By adding air to the process Weed stalks and leaves Wood chips can Harvesting Cookedcompost food Any plastic is dark brown and has a (like egg boxes, scrunched up paper, browns etc.) the process When the compost be speeded up. (not roots or seeds) Autumn Leaves Bread Milk or juice cartons Raw fruit When and vegthe scraps prunings Harvesting compost compostWood is dark brown Crushed eggshells Torniscardboard and has an ear thy smell, the composting process complete.

Cling film Bones Which bin? There are many different types of compost bin or y Glass Pasta of these bins are offered at discounted prices by Worceste Hair Liquids (custard, gravy Metal Sawdust Which bin? There are many different types of compost bin composting can be found on the council’s website and the Gard manure etc.)

Cat and dog poo or you can make Poultry your own ‘wooden modular’Shredded bin. Someorof theseContent taken from the Garden Organic website and Let’s Waste Nappies and plant remains scrunched paper Dairy products bins are offered atFlower discounted prices

by Worcestershire County Elisabeth Johnston – Let’s Waste Less in Worcestershire Voluntee Coke and ash Paper Thick woody material Council. Fur ther information about composting can towels be found on the council’s website and the Garden OrganicEgg website. boxes Diseased plants Perennial weeds Straw manure Content taken from thebased Garden Organic website and Let’s Weed seed heads Waste Less materials.

Vegetarian pet bedding Elisabeth Johnston: lil.harris@hotmail.co.uk Receipts Coffee grounds (loose) and tea bags (not plastic)

Heat and air When you add organic matter, the compost bin heats up as organisms get to work. By adding air to

16 Completely Bromsgroveprocess (like egg boxes, scrunched up paper, browns etc.) the process can be speeded up.

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17

GARDENING

Plant now for a berry tasty summer

A

t last Spring is upon us and our thoughts are racing ahead to brightening up the garden with pots stuffed with vibrant colours, encouraging wildlife to visit and buzz around.

Wouldn’t it be even better if along with flowers you could have juicy, sweet delights throughout the summer months?

I’m talking about growing your own strawberries.

Who doesn’t look forward to that first taste of delicious summer?

Strawberries are an easy, fun crop to grow with children. Strawberry runners or young plants can be planted in Spring or Autumn. If you choose several different strawberry varieties that fruit in succession, this will give you a long season of scrummy, juicy strawberries from late May all the way through to Autumn. As always preparation is key and you will reap what you sow.

They will be happy in a sunny, well prepared bed, strawberry planter or even a hanging basket. Dig in plenty of well-rotted manure. Plant the strawberries

so their roots are just buried, and about 30cm apar t; firm the soil around them.

Water well for the first few weeks. Before the fruit starts to develop place some straw around the plants.

This helps to keep the berries clean and deters slugs and snails. If you share your garden with a variety of wildlife you may benefit from covering with fruit netting.

After fruiting finishes, to encourage strong growth for next year’s crop, cut off foliage about 5cm above ground level and give plants a good feed with a general purpose fertiliser. After three to four years, the size and quality of the fruit declines so you will need to replace your plants with new stock. If the parent plant is throwing off runners, plant these into pots but leave them attached to the main plant. When they have good strong roots they can be separated and you have a new plant to start all over again.

Jobs to keep you busy in April Keep weeds under control.

Tie in climbing and rambling roses.

Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches from late frosts.

Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering.

Cerinthe, scrambled egg plant, quaking grass, poppies, calendula and lovein-a-mist can all be sown directly into well prepared soil - in a few weeks’ time you’ll have a splash of colour that will last until Autumn.

Beetroot, cabbage, carrots, cauliflowers and sprouting broccoli can be sown outside. Ensure that the soil has been dug over to leave If you have a bare patch that you a fine finish that resembles need to fill fast, try sowing seeds breadcrumbs and is free of of hardy annuals. weeds and large stones.

Take care, enjoy dodging the April showers and focus on putting your feet up in the summer months with a big bowl of homegrown strawberries and cream.

Dead head daffodils as flowers fade to prevent bulbs putting energy into producing seeds. Leave the foliage until it turns brown.

By Suzi M, garden lover and plotter at Roundhill Allotments

18 Completely Bromsgrove

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19

Support for appeal to create new woodland near Bromsgrove

T

he Bromsgrove Society were keen to support the urgent appeal launched by conservation charity the Woodland Trust to raise funds to expand a local woodland, and they would welcome your support too.

Pepper Wood, situated near the village of Fairfield, on the outskirts of Bromsgrove, is a well-loved natural habitat and when the Society heard of the plans to double the size of the Woodland they were keen to make a grant in favour of the Appeal.

Centuries old, Pepper Wood is a precious fragment of rare ancient woodland – a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a green haven for wildlife and people in an increasingly urban world.

The extension of the woodland is all part of the Woodland Trust’s mission to fight the nature and climate crisis the nation is facing with trees which lock up carbon and provide vital havens for wildlife.

Pepper Wood was bought by the Woodland Trust in the early 1980s. The new extension would double the size of the wood to 250 acres, the new trees buffering and protecting historic ancient woodland and the hidden treasures it contains.

The Woodland Trust is looking for support from local people so that this land can regenerate back into beautiful woodland, with spectacular views across to the Malvern Hills. Nature will return.Young trees can seed

20 Completely Bromsgrove

and grow at their own pace helped by careful planting.

Butterflies, badgers and birds will find new homes and rare flowers can bloom again. If the Trust is successful in raising the money to purchase the land, planting and natural regeneration would begin next autumn.

As the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, the Trust has a bold aim of getting 50 million new native trees in the ground by 2025.

Ian Froggatt from the Woodland Trust told us “We really hope local people will support our appeal – this year more than ever people have found solace in woodland and nature as an escape from the restrictions we have all been living with. This new and bigger Pepper Wood will be a remarkable community asset for generations to come.”

Donations are sought for the Woodland Trust’s urgent appeal to raise £1.5 million. Find out more about Pepper Wood and the Woodland Trust’s vision and make a donation at www.woodlandtrust.org. uk/pepperappeal

by Jo Slade

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Completely Bromsgrove

21

HISTORY

W

A stroll down Tardebigge way ith its impressive sweep of 30 locks, the longest lock flight in Britain, a stroll along the Worcester & Birmingham Canal at Tardebigge offers a walk packed full of history.

The Tardebigge flight ascends/descends 220 feet over a distance of three miles. It’s an arduous journey for those on narrowboats but a pleasant amble on foot.

Tardebigge Wharf is as good a starting point for our walk as any. Passing this way in 1900, we may have seen one of the Canal Company’s four steam tugs departing through the tunnel. At busy times as many as 10 or 12 boats would be brought through, whilst the animals were led overland along well-trodden tracks. The tugmen lived in four cottages nearby. One of the original tugs, the ‘Birmingham’ built in 1912, is on display at the Wharf.

Join the towpath on the opposite bank and proceed along the canal, overlooked by Tardebigge church, which is worth a detour if you have time. At Tardebigge Top Lock (No. 58) a plaque commemorates the founding of the Inland Waterways Association (now the Canal & River Trust) on the W&B in 1946.

After passing under London Lane, the Tardebigge flight begins in earnest, with locks coming in quick succession.

To the left of the towpath is Tardebigge Lake, a feeder reservoir that offers panoramic views towards the Malvern Hills. In the early 1900s there was an Engine House here with steam engines that pumped water from the reservoir up to summit level at New Wharf.

As we descend the flight, we come to Halfway House

by Mike Sharpe

22 Completely Bromsgrove

bridge (No. 51) and the lock-keeper’s cottage with its back entrance onto the towpath below Lock 43. Built in 1830, the Halfway House was a public house and a small farm stretched alongside the towpath.

Boaters could shelter their animals in the stables for 6d. a night and the pub sold homemade beer and cider. The landlord from 1890 to 1919 was William Thompson. He passed it on to his son Tommy, who continued to run the farm and pub until his death in 1963, when the pub closed.

Today the Halfway House is a holiday let.

The Tardebigge flight ends at Tardebigge Bottom Lock, where there are boat moorings and a little further on the Queen’s Head. Besides the pub and its stables, in 1900 this housed a forge and Bate’s Wharf, named after John Bate who was a local blacksmith and later the licensee. He is said to have turned the pub into an off-licence and shop to protect his children from bad language.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can continue on past Stoke Locks to the Navigation Inn on Hanbury Road. Or – perhaps after a little reviver at the Queen’s Head – retrace your steps up this amazing local landmark.

For the Canal & River Trust’s walking guide to Tardebigge and Stoke Prior visit www.canalrivertrust.org. uk/enjoy-the-waterways/walking/walkingroutes/tardebigge-to-stoke-prior-walk

Advertisement Feature

Senior Snippets –

Foods to boost your immune system

W

elcome to the latest edition of 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 Redditch & Bromsgrove.

As we journey out of winter it is a good time to reflect on our continuing health and how we can keep our body healthy.

Here are seven superfoods with a track record of helping to boost your immune system.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, herrings & sardines contain lots of Omega-3 within the ‘good’ fatty acids. There are endless links to improving the health of the brain, including fighting depression and dementia, the eyes, the heart, bones and joints and your skin. It can even help you sleep better and reduce fat in your liver.

Dark chocolate: If it’s the real stuff, we’re talking 70% plus, then it contains a high level of healthy antioxidants which help to fight ‘free radicals’ and keep the body in balance. Dark chocolate is also high in iron, magnesium, copper and manganese and because it has a low glycaemic index it’s a better treat for diabetics.

Leafy greens: Your mum used to say ‘eat your vegetables’ for good reason. Leafy greens are packed full of vitamins, minerals and fibre which is good for the digestive system. They’re also low in calories which allows you to feel fuller for longer without putting on the pounds.

Citrus fruits: Everyone knows they’re full of vitamins, in particular vitamin C which helps with the immune system and keeps your skin in good health. The only caveat with fruit ‘juice’ is that it’s high in sugar and missing the fibre, so try to eat the fruit and drink juice in moderation.

Nuts and seeds: As well as containing the usual vitamins and minerals, nuts and seeds are also a good source of healthy fats and protein. One study has shown that eating nuts can aid weight loss.

Yoghurts: Probiotics found in some yoghurts can enhance digestive health. Look on the label for ‘live, active cultures’ and terms like ‘bifidobacteria’.

Like all dairy products, yoghurts are also high in calcium and protein.

Garlic: Containing the compound allicin, garlic has a long history of fighting viruses, bacteria and fungal infections but use it sparingly or be prepared to sit on your own.

For more information about Home Instead or if you have a suggestion for a future topic, please write to me at annie.dixondunn@homeinstead.co.uk. Alternatively, you can also call me on 01527 810855.

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Completely Bromsgrove

23

Friendship & understanding - a new dementia community support service

W

e have all come to appreciate over the last 12 months how important social contact is to our lives. A dementia diagnosis can, however, often be tremendously isolating experience.

Recent studies, including a report by the national Age UK team, have highlighted the additional impacts that the pandemic is having on people living with dementia, with lockdown causing changes to routine, impacting access to services and reducing the ability to maintain regular contact with family and friends.

Many of those living with dementia are finding it difficult to understand why they cannot do the thing that they enjoy or see the people they love. Friends and family have also noticed a rapid deterioration in their loved one’s cognitive function, which is affecting memory, sleep, mood, and behaviour.

There are currently more than 12,400 people living with dementia across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. One in every 15 of the population of the two counties over the age of 65 year has dementia.

Age UK BRWF understand the importance of companionship and maintaining links with the outside world, which is why it is involved in a new Dementia Community Suppor t Service that is being launched in partnership with Age UK Worcester & Malvern Hills, Dementia Matters (Herefordshire), and is supported by Herefordshire & Worcestershire CCG, for anybody with a suspected and/ or confirmed diagnosis of dementia or mild cognitive impairment.

24 Completely Bromsgrove

The service will match trained and skilled volunteers with local people, to be companions, to provide regular telephone calls or visits for a friendly chat, to share an interest, an activity or to reminisce.

If appropriate, the volunteers will also encourage and suppor t their companion to attend community and group activities as they re-open. The service will also help to link people including family and carers to other local and specialist suppor t organisations such as the county’s Dementia Wellbeing Service.

A little bit of friendship and understanding can go a long way, so get in touch if Age UK BRWF can help or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer.

To request a referral, contact Age UK Worcester & Malvern Hills on 01905 724294 or 01684 560666, or for more general information contact Age UK BRWF on 01527 570490 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/brwf/

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Bromsgrove is delivered door to door to selected homes within the B60 & B61 postcodes.

It can also be picked up from the following retailers: Morrisons Aston Fields Butchers Block Decanter Spirit Midland Waterlife The Strand Ducombes Butchers Catshill Willowbrook Garden Centre The Fruit Shack at Willowbrook SH Auto Aston Fields Tile Choice Aston Fields The Butcheress Stoke Prior Blackwell Village Stores Vicky’s Convenience Store Lickey End The Wine Cabin Birmingham Road Geeves Dry Cleaners Birmingham Road Golden Fry Fish Bar Aston Fields Vip Eyewear Tardebigge Court Or check out our Facebook page www.facebook.com/completelybromsgrove If you would like more information call Michele on 07948 086870 or email: michelebromsgrove@outlook.com

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25

Great travel locations are closer than you think!

1.

2.

F

rom the stunning Lake District and the lush green landscape of Hampshire’s New Forest National Park, the UK has so much to offer outside of its urban centres.

You don’t have to travel far for life-changing travel experiences, the UK is home to some of the world’s top museums, theatres and galleries. Outside the vibrant cities, there is the picturesque countryside, historic castles, spectacular ruins, beautiful beaches, and acres of blooming gardens.

I’ve started to think about all the places I want to visit, see and experience when restrictions ease. Here are some bucket listworthy UK destinations. How many have you ticked off your list?

3.

1. Summer Solstice at Stonehenge 2. View the capital from the London Eye 3. Hiking in the Snowdonia National Park 4. Take a boat trip on Lake Windermere 5. Dolphin & whale watching in the Scottish Highlands 6. Look for Nessie in Loch Ness 7. See the White Cliffs of Dover

4.

8. Visit the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site 9. Soak in Bath’s thermal waters 10. Stargazing in the Yorkshire Dales National Park The list is endless so what would you like from your family holiday? Whether you’re looking for an active break with something to keep everyone entertained, or a quiet getaway where you can simply enjoy each other’s company, the UK’s holiday hotspots boast innovative new attractions alongside retro seaside favourites to ensure everyone takes away memories to cherish.

6.

7.

5.

by Travel Counsellor Jane Ward

26 Completely Bromsgrove

Couscous stuffed trout Method: Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a frying pan and cook the onion over a medium heat for around 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another few minutes, then remove from the heat. Put the couscous in a large bowl, pour the hot stock over the couscous, cover and leave to steam for around 5 minutes. Once the couscous has absorbed the stock stir in the onion and garlic, the sundried tomatoes, lemon juice and zest and parsley, season to taste.

Heat the oven to 200C, 180C fan, gas mark 6. Put 4 trout fillets on a lined baking tray skin side down, spoon over the cous cous evenly, then top each with another trout fillet skin side up. Season and drizzle with oil, then bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Serve with green veg.

RECIPE

Per serving: 596 kcals, 25g fat, 4.6g saturated fat, 30g carbs, 4.5g sugars, 6g fibre, 59g protein, 0.75g salt

Serves 4 Prep: 15 mins Cook: 30 mins

Ingredients: 8 British trout fillets 2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 150g couscous 150ml hot vegetable stock from a reduced sodium stock cube 3 sundried tomatoes, finely chopped Lemon juice and zest Handful parsley, finely chopped Green veg to serve

www.lovebritishfood.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

27

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

What is your colour personality?

H

aving been a holistic colour practitioner and teacher for more than 30 years, colour is very close to my heart. When we really understand our own colours, it can show us how we interact with friends, family, colleagues and new acquaintances.

Colour is a vibration and reflects how we feel and see ourselves. This is done by the colours we wear and eat and the way we talk: I am feeling blue, I am in the pink, I am green with envy, I feel as good as gold.

We even change colour when we are feeling different emotions. When we are sea-sick we turn green, when we are frightened we are as white as a sheet and when we are embarrassed we turn red or pink. When we are hot our faces turn as red as a lobster so as you can see we actually reflect our colours.

Let’s look at colour personalities: A person who reflects the red personality is someone like a race car who enjoys action. In the working environment, they want people to be brief and be gone. A red personality is quick thinking and extrovert.

Yellow personalities are those wonderful people who remember your birthday, anniversary and everything about you. They are friendly, outgoing and fun to be with. In the workplace it can be difficult to keep a yellow personality on track because they have so many ideas they want to share and can get easily distracted. A yellow personality is extrovert and they feel their way

by Colette Garside colette@thegarsides.net

28 Completely Bromsgrove

into a situation rather than the thinking aspect that a red personality projects.

The green personality is rather like a station wagon that is steady, reliable and comfortable. A green person is loyal, caring and takes their time making decisions. As with yellows, they come from the feeling aspect but are in the introverted side of the circle. In the workplace, they are the ones who get things done in a quiet way that is methodical and they are the people making sure everyone else is okay.

The blue personality is like the saloon car comfortable and happy in their own space. Often blue personalities are accountants dealing with the financial side of the business. They are introverts and thinkers and like to be given the details and be allowed to digest them before giving their opinion. With a blue personality, tell them what you want them to make a decision about then leave them alone and go back later.

This is just a brief overview of four colour personalities but there are more. For more details about my introductory courses to colour visit www.windsofchange.academy

Completely Bromsgrove

29

Keeping positive with community groups T

here has been a rise in community cohesion during the last year, and two local groups in Bromsgrove have shown that giving something back and “paying it forward” can have many positive benefits.

Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful (KBB) and Bromsgrove ROCKS! are two groups which have brought people together and helped to spread a little joy - and the popularity of both groups continues to grow.

The groups stay connected via Facebook where Bromsgrove ROCKS! have over 4,600 members and Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful recently surpassed the 1000-member milestone on their Facebook page.

Despite the lockdown restrictions putting the monthly group litter picks on hold, individuals and family groups have been heading out to clean up their local areas. The recent half-term was a great opportunity for new members to take up the challenge with inspiration coming from Capt Sir Tom Moore and from seeing other members doing their bit and posting their work on the Facebook page. One family set out to collect 100 pieces of litter and are now hooked on the pastime.

It is certainly well documented that activities like litter picking are good for your physical and mental health and general well-being. An outdoor activity with a feel-good factor and community benefit!

KBB supports a team of Duke of Edinburgh Award students who signed up to litter pick for the volunteering element of the scheme.

The students began litter picking close to home but are now carrying out more targeted picks in areas where there is a build-up of litter, like the industrial estates. The numbers participating in the scheme are increasing, and each student is supported with a branded vest, litter picker and hoop thanks to funding from County Councillors.

Painted rocks and litter picking go hand in hand.The premise behind Bromsgrove ROCKS! is to hide painted rocks, post a picture if you find one, and re-hide it for someone else to find.This fun pastime has created a wonderful community in Bromsgrove and encourages people to be out and about in a safe way. KBB themed rocks are helping to spread the “please don’t litter” message, and other rocks, such as kindness rocks spread a little love around. Finding a painted rock during your litter pick is a super reward.

In these difficult times, both local groups have helped to create a focus away from the challenges of lockdown, and as the restrictions begin to lift small group activities will be resuming outdoors. Keep a look out for the KBB organised group picks star ting again in April, and why not go out on a painted rock hunt during the Easter holidays?

If you see any KBB members in their white tabards in and around the district, picking up litter, show your support with a wave, a toot of the horn or a thank you. If you’re on Facebook, do get involved with Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful and Bromsgrove ROCKS! - everyone is welcome.

30 Completely Bromsgrove

by Jo Slade

Changes to Council Tax Support Scheme means more help for residents A

complete overhaul in Council Tax support means Bromsgrove District Council has become one of only 40 councils in the country to offer up to 100% support for working age residents.

The current support scheme moved to a new grid scheme this month which means residents in need of extra help will be able to claim up to 100% of their Council Tax.

The scheme provides support from the day it is needed to help residents avoid crisis situations. Criteria changes mean that more residents may now be eligible.

Councillor Geoff Denaro, portfolio holder for finance and enabling, said: “We are proud to be one of only forty councils offering this level of support to residents who need it most. It’s a win-win for residents as well as the council because it means we’ll be spending less time trying to recover or write off debts, an element of the old scheme which was just not cost-effective.

Every year more than £16 billion of welfare benefits are unclaimed by people across the country who are eligible for them.

Reasons for this include understanding how welfare works, those on Universal Credit not realising they may also be eligible for council tax support and the stigma around claiming benefits, even if only for a short period of time.

“If the past year has taught us anything, it is that circumstances can change on a knife edge. If your situation has changed, please come forward and check whether you are eligible under the new scheme.”

For more information about the new scheme visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/CTSBanded, email benefits@bromsgrove.gov.uk or call 01527 881213.

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31

Passion for storytelling prompts author’s first children’s novel

Author Ian Jukes with his new book The Adventures of Thomas and the Magic Owl Illustrations from the book by Brendan McMahon of Classic Lines Design

A

Worcestershire businessman’s wish to inspire his grandchildren to love reading has led to the publication of his debut adventure story.

The Adventures of Thomas and the Magic Owl was written primarily by Ian Jukes as a gift to his grandsons Oliver, Thomas and Miles but can now be enjoyed by all pre-teen children with vivid imaginations who enjoy action-packed tales of cheeky, yet well-mannered, characters.

Readers can follow the adventures of young tortoise Thomas and his magical friend Owliver as they travel to faraway islands, across stormy seas and over land to meet the King of England. On the way, the intrepid friends encounter ruthless pirates and a cunning highwayman and stay at a haunted inn.

Mr Jukes, who lives in Worcester and is chairman of Pulsar UK in Redditch, enlisted the help of fellow Worcestershire businesses for the project.

Brendan McMahon, creative director of Bromsgrove-based Classic Lines Design, created the full colour illustrations and the book was edited by award-nominated author Chris Green, managing partner of Chris Green Media in Worcester. It has been printed by The Lemon Press in Redditch.

32 Completely Bromsgrove

Mr Jukes donated 500 copies of the book to FareShare Midlands and 250 copies to Worcestershire Ambassadors, of whom he is a member, for distribution to local charities.

“I’ve been an avid book lover all my life and I’m keen to pass on that enthusiasm,” he said.

“The footballer, campaigner and FareShare ambassador Marcus Rashford said that reading changes your outlook and mentality and that children from all backgrounds should be able to escape through books.

I totally agree and hope that my book will help to fire children’s imaginations and write their own stories.”

Simone Connolly, director for FareShare Midlands said: “Thousands of children live in poverty across the Midlands region, and our role is to supply a network of charities and community groups with surplus food who in turn reach as many of them as possible so they don’t go hungry. We were delighted to partner with Ian to help distribute his generous donation of books as part of the deliveries we made before Christmas.”

The Adventures of Thomas and the Magic Owl is available to buy from www.thomasandowliver.com

Farming family brew up a business that’s growing strong

H

ere at Completely Bromsgrove we’re proud to support local, independent businesses that are putting the town on the map.

Brew 61 certainly fall into this category. With an inspiring back story (as they say on reality TV), eyecatching new branding and an ethos to provide local beer for local people – maybe we should add ‘with taste’ to that line.

The brewery’s founder Tim Dunkley took a rare break from his delivery round to explain how it all began.

“We’ve got a farm just outside Bromsgrove and when my mum died of cancer 30 years ago I took over, continuing to farm until foot and mouth disease hit the industry in 2001,” he said.

“Following that, we got planning permission to build industrial and self-storage units but over the last five years we missed the farming side so we bought some Highland cattle and Pole Dorset sheep. I also bought a 100 litre home brew kit then progressed to 300 litre and 1,200 litre kits, which gives 25 barrels.”

Brew 61 now offer a range of four fab beers and the cattle heartily approve of this new venture as they can now munch contentedly on the by-product, brewer’s grains, which Tim previously bought for them in Kidderminster. Waste hops are also put to good use as compost in the vegetable garden.

The four beers currently available are: Spring Meadow – a clean tasting session IPA with a berry sweetness and aroma; Greenfields Gold - a lovely light golden session IPA; Grazing Girls – a light, golden ale and Hop On - a yellow-gold English pale ale.

Like many businesses, Brew 61 was forced to change its focus during lockdown. The brewery moved into a new building and before Christmas decided to go into bottling. Tim’s daughter Jess designed some labels and a small market at Droitwich Rugby Club when restrictions allowed was a sell-out success.

There has also been a new addition to the team, as Tim explained.

“Jake Hioms is a 29-year-old chemistry graduate who was working in water management in Reading.

Through a family friend, we found out that he was interested in brewing and he decided to change his life and career by coming to work with us.

“Having Jake and all of his experience on board means that I can devote more time to marketing and that we can grow together. We also moved into online sales in March which we’re excited about.”

Tim is optimistic that more local pubs and shops will follow Decanter Spirit in Bromsgrove High Street in stocking Brew 61 products and plans for 2021 and beyond include more festival appearances when lockdown restrictions are eased.

Head to the website: www.brew61.co.uk to find out more and to place an order. You can also catch up with the brewery’s latest news on its Facebook and Instagram feeds.

Completely Bromsgrove

33

Rail Matters from BARRUP

www.bromsgroverail.org.uk

( Bromsgrove and Redditch Rail User Partnership)

T

he Worcestershire County Council Elections take place on Thursday, May 6th, and they give us, the voters, the opportunity to influence the improvement of rail connectivity in North East Worcestershire. In February 2020, the Worcestershire Parkway (WOP) Station, designed to be an “Interchange Station” and which cost circa £22m, was opened.

BARRUP is campaigning for those Cross Country Trains (XC) which stop at Parkway to stop also at Bromsgrove so as to bring significant economic and environmental benefits to the residents and businesses of the Nor th East Worcestershire District.

Part of the funding for the new station will have come from you and me, as Council Tax Payers living and working in the District, but currently WP is very underutilised, and presumably running at a financial loss.

Can we use it as an “Interchange Station” directly from Bromsgrove? No! What benefit do we get from it? Virtually none!

Why? Because currently none of the XC Trains which stop at Parkway stop also at Bromsgrove.

So if someone wants to travel by rail from Bromsgrove to Cheltenham, the South West, Cardiff and South Wales for leisure or business purposes, firstly he/she has to travel from Bromsgrove to University Station on a West Midlands Trains service, and then has to catch the XC service which travels back through Bromsgrove and onwards.

Similarly, if someone wants to travel from Bromsgrove to Pershore, Evesham, Oxford, Reading, Paddington and other destinations on the Great Western Railway services which do interchange

34 Completely Bromsgrove

at Parkway, again he / she has to travel firstly to University to catch the XC service which travels back through Bromsgrove and stops at Parkway The situation is the same for the services in reverse for someone wanting to travel to Bromsgrove to visit some of the District’s attractions (see Page 32 of the February edition of “Completely Bromsgrove”), or because he/she wishes to do business with an organisation in Bromsgrove.

What a waste of a time and money for the residents of Bromsgrove and Nor th East Worcestershire wishing to travel south, south east and south west by rail and what a deterrent for potential visitors to the District, at a time when the local economies need rebuilding!!!

In the next few weeks before the Elections, the County Councillors which sit for Bromsgrove on the County Council will be asking for your votes so that they can be elected.

Ask your local candidates whether they support the BARRUP campaign and decide how to cast your vote accordingly. You can make a difference!

by Nick Taylor

Education 2020 We NEVER stop learning To book into our next Education section please call Michele on 07948 086870

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35

MP welcomes news that Waseley Hills High School is set to benefit from rebuilding programme

W

aseley Hills High School in Rubery is among the first wave of schools to be selected for the Government’s school rebuilding programme.

The Prime Minister announced an ambitious ten-year programme to transform 500 school buildings across England, giving every child access to the best learning environment.

The news has been welcomed by Waseley Hills headteacher, Alan Roll and Bromsgrove MP, Sajid Javid, who worked on getting the application over the line in Westminster.

Backed by £1 billion in government funding, 50 schools will benefit from the first initial wave of the programme, which will rebuild and repair primary, secondary, specialist as well as sixth form colleges around England, with 70 per cent located in the North and Midlands.

These refurbishments will help create a modern learning environment by delivering new classrooms and science labs to spor ts halls and dining halls.

Project planning is already at an advanced stage and a site visit took place in autumn 2020.

This programme will also create vital jobs and apprenticeships in the construction industry, with suppliers offering training opportunities as part of their work on the rebuilds.

Sajid Javid, said: “I am delighted that Waseley Hills High School has been selected as one of the first schools in the country to benefit from this programme. This will make a lasting difference to local students for years to come and help level up opportunity and educational success in our area.

36 Completely Bromsgrove

“I am extremely pleased for Alan Roll and the staff, who I know have worked extremely hard to make this application a success. It was my pleasure to suppor t them in Westminster and help get this funding over the line.”

Alan Roll said: “We are delighted that the school has been chosen to benefit from the rebuilding schools programme. This will have a big impact on the oppor tunities and life chances of young people in the Rubery and Bromsgrove area and they can look forward to a brighter future.

“I would like to personally thank Sajid Javid, for his suppor t for this initiative as I know from our discussions that he takes a personal interest in the welfare and education of young people.”

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NURSERY & PRE-SCHOOL Places Available for September Our provision is teacher led offering educational rigour in a nurturing environment which supports whole child development.

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To book a visit please contact the school office on 01562 777312 or email office@chaddesleycorbett. worcs.sch.uk

Be busy at Bromsgrove A

t Bromsgrove, we believe pupils are happiest when they are succeeding.

We offer an all-round education, combining academic excellence with a richness of opportunity. Pupils engage enthusiastically with knowledge, embrace new ideas and are intellectually stimulated. We pride ourselves on the outstanding opportunities available, both inside and outside the classroom, whether at Nursery, Pre-Prep, Preparatory or Senior School.

In a nutshell we offer staggering breadth – first division academic performance not only in GCSEs, but also A levels, the International Baccalaureate and BTECs in Sport and Business.

We teach and learn with passion and pizzaz but insist upon academic rigour.

However, we recognise that there is little point in getting top grades at A level or IB if all you can do afterwards is stare at your shoe laces and grunt when you ought to be engaging other people. So each and every day has a dedicated time for developing other vital life and social skills.

The breadth and success of our extra curricula offer is astonishing. Our sport has ranked us in the top six of all UK independent schools for the last six years, not in one particular sport but across 26 sports. And in addition to the

38 Completely Bromsgrove

280 sports teams we put out and all the musical ensembles, choirs and orchestras - our pupils have 110 other activities to choose from each week.

Bromsgrove’s first team netballers were twice crowned national champions in the most recent round of competitions, our U17 cricketers were also national champions and we celebrated our Chicken kitcar racing team car being crowned World Kitcar Champions. The pupil edited and produced magazine 201 was awarded Magazine of the Year at the prestigious Shine Media Awards.

So, whether your child is interested in beekeeping, astronomy (in the School observatory), debating at the European Youth Parliament, learning to fly in the Combined Cadet Force, or playing sport at the highest level, they really will find it on offer at Bromsgrove.

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Please enquire about places in all year groups, from Nursery to Year 8 Contact Admissions 01527 579 679 Bromsgrove Senior 990 pupils aged 13-18 Prep 520 pupils aged 7- 13 Pre-Prep 220 pupils aged 2 - 7

A

Exciting new look planned for Norton Collection Museum mbitious plans to extend Bromsgrove’s Norton Collection Museum have been officially unveiled with the big reveal poised to take place in the spring.

The exciting initiative was launched by Mr Norton, accompanied by Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid and Town Crier Kevin Ward, at the Birmingham Road museum in December.

Adding a welcome 21st century touch to the popular venue, which is run by a devoted team of 35 volunteers, will be an attractive glass frontage, additional space for more artefacts, a coffee shop, lift and modern stairs.

Mr Nor ton, who is carrying out restoration work on the figures created by the renowned Bromsgrove Guild, famous for producing the Buckingham Palace gates and the Liver Bird statues, said the extension has been on his mind for the past seven years.

“With the museum being so close to the town centre, people will be able to have a look around and have drinks and snacks afterwards,” he said.

“Removing the old stairs will give us much more room and the lift will provide better access for disabled or elderly visitors. The extra space will allow us to hold talks, presentations and evening events in the future.”

Among the new features will be a display celebrating Bromsgrove’s rich railway history. Mr Norton has teamed up with Ron Swift to bring together some unique items including name plates, running boards and even the balcony from the old station.

Cast iron foot scrapers, identical to those outside 10 Downing Street, which were outside the station master’s house are also in the haul, along with the original whistle from much-loved locomotive Big Bertha.

The only surviving member of a group which saved Bromsgrove station in the 1960s, Mr Swift was one of the original voluntary friends of the museum.

Mr Javid praised Mr Nor ton for bringing the building back to life and said he hoped more people would visit when the new-look museum opens its doors.

“All those decisions over the years to collect items relating to Bromsgrove’s past have paid off and are helping to teach people about what the town

40 Completely Bromsgrove

used to be like. Only by finding out about our past can we prepare for the future,” he added.

Funding is in place for most of the work but £20,000 is still needed for the lift. Anyone who can help should call Mr Nor ton on 01527 919531.

Avoncroft Museum prepares to re-open with new Director A

new Director has been appointed at Avoncroft Museum. Zoe Willems who previously worked as Visitor Experience Manager for the National Trust at Wightwick Manor and Moseley Old Hall properties is to take over running the Bromsgrove open air heritage attraction from mid-February.

In her role as Visitor Experience Manager for the National Trust, she oversaw an innovative programme of events, workshops and educational family activities at both Wightwick Manor and Moseley Old Hall, which both saw visitor numbers grow and income increase before the 2020 pandemic.

Zoe has an extensive track record in charity regulation and governance, having worked at the Charity Commission, as a charity consultant, governance and fundraising specialist, and as a Director of the Fundraising Standards Board and trustee of the Small Charities Coalition.

“There’s cer tainly some hard work ahead, but this is a bit of a dream come true for me!” said Zoe about her appointment.

“I am thrilled to be appointed as Director of Avoncroft. It is a fabulous place, with so many buildings from different eras all telling stories of life in the Midlands, from milling wheat to making nails. I’m longing to see it come to life again, and will be working hard with the support of trustees, volunteers, members and the local community to get the doors open again as soon as we possibly can.”

Due to Covid-19 the museum only opened par t time for a few months in 2020, after closing for the first lockdown in March. The ongoing nature of the pandemic has led to the recent difficult decision to reduce the staff team to a core recovery team to ensure a future for the charity. Now it is preparing for its reopening later this year.

New Director Zoe Willem

Michael Woolley, the Chair of Trustees said “We are extremely grateful to all our staff for all the work they’ve done for Avoncroft. Sadly, with visitor admissions being a key source of income, and with such uncertainty about when we will be able to welcome visitors back, the Trustees had to make major cost savings to prepare the charity for recovery later in the year.”

“We are pleased to have appointed Zoe as the new Director. She has a very broad experience base, a clear passion for our heritage and how people can engage with it. With her leadership, we are confident Avoncroft be able to open its doors once more later this year. We look forward to working with her to re-build the Museum as a ‘must-see’ attraction here in the Midlands.”

Medieval Town House

For more information about Avoncroft Museum please visit www.avoncroft.org.uk or email director@avoncroft.org.uk Completely Bromsgrove

41

When is a stray cat really a stray?

B

lue animal rehoming centre in Catshill, Bromsgrove regularly receives enquiries from animal lovers about a cat they think is stray in the neighbourhood. Some are even brought in for rehoming but when scanned for a microchip they often turn out to be an owned and loved pet.

Microchipping, compulsory by law with dogs, is a way of swiftly reuniting a missing pet with their owners – as long as the owner keeps their contact details for the chip up to date.

However, many cats brought into Blue Cross rehoming centres do not have a microchip but are suspected to be owned pets because of their friendly nature and healthy physical condition. Blue Cross would like to see microchipping of cats compulsory to reduce the number of ‘strays’ they take in every year.

Without a microchip it is difficult and usually impossible for the charity to track down their owners and all they can do is find them a new home if no-one comes forward to claim them.

Well-meaning animal lovers may think a cat is a stray and leave out food for them, however this can be a real problem if the cat is owned by someone else. Cats will always come back to a reliable source of food so kind animal lovers believing a cat to be a stray and feeding it might be luring it away from home. There have been cases of people keeping the cat themselves, leaving their loving owners at a devastating loss of not knowing what happened to their pet.

42 Completely Bromsgrove

Some cats may also have a medical condition that mean it can be dangerous for them to eat certain foods and cats can easily become overweight if they are fed more times than they should be – leading to serious health problems.

Before feeding or taking in a ‘stray’ cat Blue Cross recommends you: • Ask your neighbours if their cat is missing or if they recognise the cat.

• Consider putting up a ‘found’ poster with a photo of the cat.

• Check local ‘lost and found pets’ groups on Facebook.

• Call your local vet or rescue centre to see if they know of anyone looking for their cat.

Blue Cross has further advice at www.bluecross.org.uk/straycat and is offering a free paper collar to download and attach to a suspected stray to find out if they are owned.

New campaign lets dogs do the talking to encourage owners to pick up their poo B

romsgrove District Council have joined a prominent environmental charity’s campaign in a bid to tackle dog fouling.

The new campaign to tackle the blight of dog fouling is being launched in Bromsgrove next week, in partnership with Keep Britain Tidy.

After repor ts of increased dog fouling during lockdown, the council are encouraging all dog owners to ‘do it for your dog’ when it comes to cleaning up after their four-legged friends.

One in four households in the UK owns a dog and, in a survey carried out for Keep Britain Tidy, 83% of dog owners wondered what their dog would say if he or she could talk. ‘Do it for your dog’ imagines just what they would say about their owners - whether they were the responsible ones who did clear up after their pets or if they were one of the 10% of dog owners who admitted that they had walked away without picking up in the past 12 months.

In the new campaign, Sarah the Spaniel and Ben the Boxer will be ‘speaking’ directly to owners – through the wonders of technology – on social media, as well as being featured on posters in hot spot areas around the district.

Councillor Margaret Sherrey, portfolio for environmental services, said: “It’s hard to catch people in the act when it comes to dog fouling and our team can’t be everywhere at once - but it is a fineable offence. I hope this awareness campaign makes irresponsible dog owners think twice about not picking up after their pets.

“Getting out for a walk is more important than ever and it’s not fair that it is spoilt by a small minority of people. We are all in this together and have a responsibility for the area we live in, as well as to the animals we keep as pets.”

fouling. More than 50% of people tell us that dog fouling is a problem where they live so dealing with the issue is important if we want everyone to be able to love where they live. ’Do it for your dog’ is a new way to get the message across to dog owners that they need to clean up after their pets.”

Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, chief executive of Keep Britain Tidy said: “We are delighted that Bromsgrove District Council is working to tackle the issue of dog

If residents wish to report dog fouling hot spots that require a clean-up, they can call 01527 881188 or report it online at www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/litter Completely Bromsgrove

43

AVONCROFT CRICKET CLUB

Busy summer of cricket ahead at Avoncroft

W

ith the government announcing that organised recreational sport can begin again from March 29, volunteers at Avoncroft Cricket Club are hard at work gearing up for the new season.

The First XI are first in line for the restart, with the opening game of the season anticipated to take place on April 17 subject to final government sign-off. On the field, the Firsts will be under the new leadership of all-rounder Josh Cound and anticipating a positive campaign including the challenge of defending their Worcestershire Cricket League T20 Trophy.

The Second XI are also under new leadership this year, with long-term captain Mark Wood taking a well-earned break back in the ranks.

Joe Ingle steps up into a leadership role for the first time with the Seconds likely to have a more youthful feel as some of Avoncroft’s junior stars look to step up into more high profile roles.

With the junior ranks thriving, Avoncroft will be running a Third XI for the first time in around ten years with club stalwart Jason Huxley taking on the captaincy of the new side.

It’s hoped that, alongside the Sunday XI, this will enable Avoncroft to field two developmental sides with junior players integrating with more experienced members as part of their transition into senior cricket.

There have also been major changes in the club’s senior leadership roles, with Rod Braithwaite standing down after more than 40 years as chairman. Long-standing member and vice-chair Chris Townsend has the impossible job of following in Rod’s footsteps and whilst Rod’s

44 Completely Bromsgrove

impact on the committee will undoubtably be missed, his support and sartorial elegance on the boundary is still expected once cricket resumes.

Club president Pete Whitehead has also stood down from his formal role within the club but will continue to play a key part in the everyday running of the club in both a hands-on and advisory capacity. Martyn Cound, an experienced and well-respected player and committee member for several decades, has deservedly been appointed as the new president.

Avoncroft will again be providing junior cricket for new and existing members aged from five to 15, with Friday evening training due to restart in mid-April. After the challenges of our winter lockdown, it’s hoped that lots of children will take up the opportunity of joining in with the fun programme of cricket activities over the summer. More information can be found at www.avoncroftcc.co.uk on Facebook (Avoncroft Cricketclub) and on Twitter (@ CroftCricket).

The club is also a local centre for the delivery of the ECB’s All Stars cricket programme for boys and girls aged from five to eight. To book onto the programme or for more information, visit: www.ecb.co.uk/play/all-stars

by Paul Athey

Light at the end of the tunnel for Sporting?

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part from one friendly and a couple of matches in the unofficial Red Recruitment Cup over the Christmas and New Year period, there have been no matches involving Bromsgrove Sporting since the FA Trophy match against Coleshill Town on October 31st last year.

However, plans have now been made to finish the Red Recruitment Cup thanks to a partial easing of the lockdown. Games already played at the Victoria Ground saw Sporting beat Redditch United 3-1 just before Christmas and draw with Alvechurch 3-3 on Boxing Day. To complete the competition, Sporting will be away to Redditch United on Saturday, May 22nd at 3pm with Alvechurch hosting Redditch United on May 29th. Then on Bank Holiday Monday (May 31st), also with a 3pm kick-off, the Rouslers will be away to Alvechurch. Whether fans will be allowed to watch will depend on regulations at the time.

As with other leagues, both the Veterans and Ladies teams have had their seasons cancelled but will play out cup competitions. The Veterans (AKA Over 35s) will play Redditch United on April 4th and SSS Lions on April 18th, both 10.30 am, at the Victoria Ground with a match away to Springville sandwiched in between on Sunday, April 11th.

Bromsgrove Sporting Ladies have just one fixture playing Droitwich Ladies on April 18th at 2pm in the County Cup. Andy Mason It is unlikely that fans will be allowed to watch these matches but updates will be posted on our website and social media pages.

Finally, it was with much sadness that the club had to announce the resignation for personal reasons of Andy Mason from his position as assistant to manager Brendan Kelly. Andy has been with the club for six seasons and shared in all the successes during that time. He is not going very far and will be around at matches once football gets underway again.

Updates and the latest news about Bromsgrove Photos by Chris Jepson Sporting can be found on the new and improved

by Phil Baker website www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

45

Sharon’s passion for Primrose secures charity ambassador role A mum-of-two said she cried ‘happy tears’ after being asked to be an ambassador for Primrose Hospice.

Sharon Johnson, from Finstall, Bromsgrove, and her family have been supported by the hospice after her husband Chris was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2018.

The charity, which provides care and support to people in north east Worcestershire, thought the 50-yearold would be the perfect ambassador thanks to her dedication to raising both awareness and money for the hospice.

Sharon and Chris starred in the charity’s Christmas campaign in 2019 and raise awareness in TV and radio interviews.

Sharon has also set up a fundraising group #WMPMND. So far this has raised more than £28,000 for Primrose and Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) after they were due to run the Liverpool Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in 2020 which was postponed.

“When I received the letter asking me to be an ambassador for Primrose Hospice the tears just rolled down my cheeks,” she said.

“It is such an honour to be asked but I don’t do it to be recognised. Primrose Hospice has become a massive part of our lives and it is such an amazing facility to have on our doorstep.”

Sharon and the #WMPMND group’s original target was to raise £1,000 but they have smashed through their latest goal to raise £27,520, based on Sharon’s West Midlands Police collar number.

They are now aiming to raise £32,280, Sharon and Chris’s police collar numbers combined, which will be split between the two charities.

Despite the postponement of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, the group of 350 runners have taken part in other challenges including a virtual 50 mile challenge in January to mark Sharon’s 50th birthday.

46 Completely Bromsgrove

The hospice’s ambassador role is vital in helping inform the community about the impor tant work Primrose does providing care and suppor t to people with lifelimiting conditions, their families and bereaved adults and children.

David Burrell, CEO of Primrose Hospice, said: “Sharon will make a fantastic ambassador as her effor ts so far have proved.

“At every oppor tunity the couple have been incredible at raising the profile of their local hospice and breaking the stigma surrounding hospices by sharing their positive experiences.

“We are incredibly grateful for all of their efforts and are really proud to welcome Sharon to Team Primrose.”

Primrose continues to provide care and suppor t with online and telephone services as well as face-to-face appointments where necessary.

If you would like to be referred to Primrose’s Care services please speak to your GP or if you would be interested in family suppor t following a bereavement call 01527 889799.

primrose hospice

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