Completely Bromsgrove August '21 issue 32

Issue 32

August 2021

Completely

Bromsgrove

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W

elcome to the August issue of Completely Bromsgrove.

I must start by mentioning the wonderful sunny weather we have had. Even though it’s been super hot, we must all remember that our pets suffer just as much as we do and the Blue Cross charity has produced some top tips on how to keep furry friends safe in the heat, especially if you are taking them away with you. Happy holidays everyone! With schools out you may be – or know - somebody who is moving onto the next stage of their career journey. If this is the case, then turn to page 20 for help and advice. Pupils from Chadsgrove School in Catshill have designed and painted an elephant sculpture as part of Worcester’s Big Parade which runs throughout the summer. Chad, as he’s been named, can be seen in all his glory in Worcester city centre. The parade promises to be a great day out for all the family and not to be missed. When the event ends, each elephant will be auctioned to raise money for St Richard’s Hospice. Congratulations to one talented Bromsgrove student, Faith Taylor, who has been awarded the coveted title of Worcestershire’s Young Poet Laureate 2021. Such a great achievement. Whether you’re having your ‘staycation’ literally at home, are venturing further afield in this country or have decided to take the plunge and pop off to foreign climes, I hope you all have a great holiday and stay safe. Please continue to think of others wherever you are. Keep safe everyone and best wishes from

Michele Ford

10

32 40 45

Contents 6 8 10 13 14 16 18 20 22

Our MP’s Message Women in Business Poet Faith Taylor We Spray Anything Gardening Sheds for All Seasons Road Signs Replaced Career Sessions World Wildlife Trust

Completely

24 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36

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

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Acorn Dental Recipe Brood/Lygon Arms Chad the Elephant Air Ambulance Pub Run Wychavon Plum Festival Street Theatre Alvechurch Legal Services Blue Cross Model Engineers

37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Fair Day Age UK Basement Project Photo Gallery Health and Wellbeing History St. Johns Beam Project BARRUP Trains Avoncroft Cricket Club B’grove Sporting F.C.

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.

Completely Bromsgrove

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A message from our MP

I

would first like to say how proud I am of the England team for their incredible effort during Euro 2020. It was a painful defeat in the final, but every single player showed immense character and courage. They made their country proud and should hold their heads high.

In June, the Prime Minister asked me to become Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. I was honoured to take up the position. On the Monday following my appointment, I made a statement to Parliament and took the opportunity to thank the incredible people working in the NHS and social care. I have seen first-hand the amazing work they do for my constituents and I look forward to meeting more of them during my time as Secretary of State. I am also thankful for the suppor t of my constituents and the kind messages I have received. I look forward to continuing to represent the good people of Bromsgrove District. More than 80 million vaccinations have now been administered across the UK. Every adult has been offered at least one dose, and over 34 million second doses have been administered. We have made great progress on this in Bromsgrove as well. By mid-July, 86% of adults had received at least one jab – and 69% had received both doses of the vaccine. The pandemic is not over, and cases will continue to rise over the coming weeks, but with 80 million vaccinations now administered we can replace the

6  Completely Bromsgrove

shor t-term protection of restrictions with the longstanding protections vaccines offer. In Bromsgrove, I recently attended the Cour t Leet Fair Day. The fair is a wonderful local tradition and I want to thank all of the organisers who made it possible. I also had the oppor tunity to meet with a group of local farmers and representatives of the National Farmers Union. It was a productive meeting and we discussed a range of topics from industry standards, the oppor tunities of new trading arrangements, and how best to suppor t local businesses. I will be holding further such meetings in the weeks ahead, including with our local NHS, district council and businesses. As ever, if I can be of any suppor t to my constituents, please email me at sajid.javid.mp@parliament.uk

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Completely Bromsgrove

7

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Dachs(hund) splash leads to dog fash(ion) cash W hen happy wanderer Ted took an impromptu dip in a local pond, little did his owner Charlotte Moseley know that he’d spark a whole new career in doggy fashion and accessories.

Bromsgrove-born and raised Charlotte, an acclaimed violinist who has also helped to raise funds for community projects including St John’s Church, found her strings temporarily silenced by lockdown last spring. However, she did have some experience of sewing (thanks to her mum) and creating concert dresses and was able to transfer her talents to creating outfits for our four-legged friends, who have proved to be mental health boosting companions during the pandemic. Charlotte takes up the story of how Hugo & Ted was born: “Ted’s coat was ruined when he fell into the pond but I didn’t want to buy a replacement online as it’s difficult to get one that’s the right fit. I thought I’d make one myself, posted a photo an Facebook and got an amazing response.” In the early days Charlotte sold her creations via Etsy but the brand now has its own website - www.hugoandtedltd. com – where devoted dog owners can source distinctive designs to set their pooches apart from the pack. “It just spiralled and at one point I was working until the early hours as I knew that I had to get orders out as soon as possible to build our reputation,” recalled Charlotte. “Initially, I thought the rush was just Christmas related but the orders continued to roll in and to date we’ve taken more than 2,000. “We’ve just sent a collar, lead and bow tie and harness set to Tasmania for a wedding and a full set to a buyer in Las Vegas.” Charlotte had planned to move into a unit in April but the demand was so great that she took on a lease at the star t of the New Year. The Hugo & Ted team is now three strong and will give Charlotte the opportunity to resume her career as a musician when she is able to. In the meantime, she is clearly loving life as a purveyor of premium pooch products and has also moved into the market for complementary items for their loving hoomans. Hugo & Ted’s made to measure, bespoke coats, jumpers, rain macs and t-shirts can be adapted for all breeds and sizes - “the biggest item we’ve made is a raincoat for a Great Dane with a 42inch chest!” - and collars, leads, harnesses and bow ties come in complete matching sets. Also available are laptop cases, makeup bags, crate covers, lead safety clips and treat/mask bags. With every order, Charlotte sends a card asking owners to post photos of their pets and tag in Hugo & Ted, which has resulted in a stylish army of brand ambassadors strutting their stuff on the company’s Facebook and Instagram pages – the latter has 10,000 followers.

8  Completely Bromsgrove

The real Hugo and Ted take centre stage of the website of course and Charlotte reveals that they are perfect models – as long as they receive a cheesy treat at the end of the shoot! Follow Hugo & Ted on Facebook at www.facebook. com/hugoandted and on Instagram @hugoandtedltd

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9

Talented teenager has Faith in her writing

F

aith Taylor, a 15-year-old poet from Bromsgrove, has proven that writing really is a beautiful talent after being awarded the coveted title of Worcestershire’s Young Poet Laureate for 2021. More than 100 talented young writers from across the county entered Worcestershire’s Young Poet Laureate competition in April. The competition, jointly run by Worcestershire County Council Library Services and Severn Arts, is open annually to young people aged from eight to 18 and aims to encourage and inspire young people to write and perform poetry, make their voices heard, and explore issues and ideas that matter to them. In the past, winners have received a year of professional mentoring, been interviewed by BBC radio and commissioned to write more work and have taken par t in a range of other creative oppor tunities. On winning the competition, Faith said: “It’s been an incredible experience and I am so pleased to have won. All of the finalists were amazing and I am looking forward to the opportunities over the next year. Thank you to Severn Arts, Worcestershire County Council and all those involved.” To take par t in the competition, applicants had to submit two poems: one based on this year’s theme ‘adventure’ and a second about anything at all. On the day of the final the 12 finalists were given a coaching session with tips on how to perform online before taking centre stage and performing their poems to the judges Ellie Dar t, Justin Coe and Kevin Brooke. Professional poet Justin Coe said: “Faith’s work showed both passion and skill with form, celebrating adventures in writing and commenting on the current Coronavirus crisis with a brilliant ‘reverse poem’; a poem that can be read two ways to communicate two different moods or attitudes.” Elaine Knight, ar ts director for Severn Ar ts, said: “Faith has been inspired by last year’s winner Ellie Dar t so it was a pleasure to see how one Young Poet Laureate has impacted on other young people in the county, inspiring them to take par t in the event.” Abbie-Lou Cox was the winner for the 1618 age group and Alana Booth for the eight to 11 age group. The poems submitted to the competition by Faith, Abbie-Lou, Alana and other entrants can all be read in a published anthology available on the Severn Ar ts website: www.severnarts.org.uk/ypl-2021

10  Completely Bromsgrove

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This may seem like an unusual idea, but it’s a great way to freshen up your home without the expense or hassle of fitting a new suite or buying new furniture etc. Bromsgrove company We Spray Anything does exactly what the name suggests, refurbishing all sor ts of household items with a new look with a coat of paint. Anything is possible. Paint can be matched to your favourite colour or existing décor. There are thousands of colour shades to choose from, as well as bespoke finishes and designs. As well as enhancing and adding value to your home, the concept is also good for the environment: you’ll be renewing or “upcycling” old or outdated items rather than throwing them away, while the process itself uses environmentally friendly water-based paints. The friendly team at We Spray Anything boasts more than 100 years’ combined experience and also carries out work for trade and retail clients, with an impressive business client list from Mrs Jones to Mr Selfridge. The company has also been featured on national TV - you might have spotted them on programmes

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13

GARDENING

Need to access green space more important than ever I

feel so blessed to have an allotment plot in a stunningly beautiful rural location in Bromsgrove. It is almost like being a million miles from civilisation. We are oblivious to the wildlife scurrying about right under our very noses, hidden away whilst we rush about, not taking time to see the wonders beneath our feet. Allotments are a great way of keeping fit as well as giving you the chance to meet new friends and grow fresh produce. Now more than ever the need to access a green space is very important. The benefit this gives to our mental health has been tried and tested particularly over the last 18 months. We are seeing the next generation of growers coming through as more families take on plots. Children who have planted seeds and watch a crop develop are much more likely to eat vegetables routinely. They are also likely to retain an appreciation of and concern for the environment as adults. Today’s children are the plot-holders of the future. Around this time of year there is much activity on the plots, feeding, nurturing, measuring, giving that extra TLC to those specimens that have been singled out to take their place in the annual allotment show.

Anyone with a plot can get involved as it is a bit of fun competition where the prize is often just a first place card or rosette. Growing vegetables or flowers for showing isn’t, as many think, about growing the biggest. It’s about growing the best example of a vegetable or flower and often the biggest is not what the judges are looking for. As well as traditional show categories there can be fun groups which can include misshapen vegetables, vegimals (animals made from vegetables), tallest sunflower, best scarecrow and miniature gardens. It is about the whole family being included and always a bit of fun and healthy competition. To find out further information about applying for an allotment, visit Bromsgrove District Council’s website where you can register to join the waiting list.

Garden jobs for August Keep patio container plants well watered and feed with a liquid fertiliser every fortnight.

Water evergreen shrubs like camellias and rhododendrons thoroughly this month to make sure that next year’s buds develop well. Dead-head annual bedding plants and perennials to encourage them to flower into the autumn and stop them self-seeding.

Top up ponds and bird baths regularly. Collect ripened seeds and store them for next year. Leaving some seed heads in place can be attractive and allows the plant to self-seed in the surrounding soil.

I’m off to polish the onions and trim the leeks, fingers crossed that the show trophy has my name on this year. Keep growing!

By Suzi M, garden lover and plotter at Roundhill Allotments

14  Completely Bromsgrove

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Completely Bromsgrove

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Sheds for all seasons – and styles S

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heds are having a moment, offering extra space during the lockdown restrictions. As an additional room, sheds really come into their own for all sorts of different purposes other than just the traditional (and still essential) garden storage. From man caves, to craft and sewing rooms, to bike stores, workshops and garden potting, sheds create opportunities to expand home and garden space in a way that is here to stay and to get used all year round. Worcester Timber Products’ garden buildings range includes a wide choice of well-constructed, robust and pressure treated sheds. With designs featuring framed windows, double doors, generous proportions and decking areas, these are thoughtfully created to meet the needs of a pandemic population. And from a build perspective, Worcester Timber Products’ sheds are constructed to last, using stainless steel nails, with 15-year rot and fungi guaranteed pressure treated timber and market leading materials, to be amongst the most robust and heavy duty available on the market. Local expertise Worcester Timber Products, based on Hartlebury Trading Estate, is a family owned and run timber business, which manufactures and supplies fencing, sheds, decking and other

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Joy after road signs replaced L

iberal Democrat district councillor for Bromsgrove Central, Siobhan Robinson, has expressed her joy that updated road signs on West Road and North Road have been installed by Bromsgrove District Council. Siobhan has been requesting the new signs from the council for over two years after a resident raised the issue with her before she was elected in May 2019. Councillor Robinson said: “I am glad to see that these signs have now been installed

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to improve our area, after a long period of reporting this.” Residents of Bromsgrove Central also expressed their gratitude on social media on the Bromsgrove Lib Dems’ Facebook page.

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Career summer sessions are taking place across the county

A

re you finishing school soon and not sure of your next steps? Inspiring Worcestershire is here to help.

Inspiring Worcestershire are hosting a series of careers clinics over the summer break to give young people suppor t to talk through the options available to them before taking that next step. There are several sessions being hosted from local libraries across the county over the next couple of months. The sessions in Kidderminster are to be hosted from the Point. Councillor Marc Bayliss, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills said: “Our county has many great oppor tunities and has really helped our young people take their next steps into the wider world when they leave school. It’s great to see us continuing our support with these summer career sessions. If you think the Inspiring Worcestershire team can help you or someone you know, please contact them.” Judy Chadwick, Skills and Investment Group Manager at Worcestershire County Council, said: “Currently in Worcestershire there is a number of great employment opportunities and vacancies within apprenticeships and kickstart that the teams will be able to talk young people through and support them to apply.”

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“The clinics will be attended by specialist advisors from Worcestershire Apprenticeships, our Further Education partners and DWP as well as others.The clinics offer any of Worcestershire’s young people aged 16-24 years old a face to face advice session to access support with thinking through their next steps, whether that’s into education or employment. Our advice team is ready to support.” The team can help with a variety of queries, from job applications, to looking at apprenticeship and Kickstart opportunities here in Worcestershire. If you think the Inspiring Worcestershire team could help you and would like to book an appointment or have a chat with an advisor, call 0300 666 3 666. You can also email: careersworcs@worcestershire.gov. uk or get in touch on Instagram: @Inspiring_Worcs August Worcester - 4th, 10am - 12noon Droitwich - 11th, 2pm - 4pm Kidderminster Point - 18th, 10am - 12noon Bromsgrove - 25th, 10am - 12noon Redditch - 25th, 10am - 12noon Sessions are hosted in local libraries to the area, apart from Kidderminster where it is being hosted at the Point.

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Completely Bromsgrove

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Photos: Wendy Carter

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Marvellous marmalades A

s I write in July, marmalade hoverflies are appearing in my garden in ever greater numbers. This summer boom takes place every year and represents a mix of homegrown and migratory individuals with a fascinating story to tell. Marmalade hoverflies get their name from their orange colouring and their unique patterning of dual black bands in a thick cut/thin cut pattern. I like to think of the thinner of these lines rather like a Poirot-style moustache. As with almost everything in the natural world, there are some individuals that haven’t read the ‘rule book’ and some marmalade hoverflies are less orange and more silvery-grey. This happens when the larvae grow up in cooler conditions (they’re darker in order to absorb more light) so they’re more common earlier in the year. The larvae of marmalade hoverflies are aphidophagous – that’s a big word for saying that they love nothing more than munching on aphids. When you consider that the larvae are blind and legless, having to rely on a keen sense of smell to locate their prey, this is even more amazing. So, with a gardener’s and farmer’s best friend close to hand, put away the sprays (that also kill pollinators and other invertebrates) and encourage more hoverflies into your patch. The world of migratory birds always astonishes me so you can imagine how incredible I find the world of migratory insects. How can such a small creature fly such huge distances over both land and sea? Whilst marmalade hoverflies can survive a mild UK winter, many of those that we see in late summer have arrived here from the continent. Their journeys begin in northern Africa and the southern Mediterranean and it takes a couple of generations before their grandchildren reach the UK to swell the populations of our homegrown hovers. As the seasons turn, they start to return south and vast

numbers have been tracked migrating through the Pyrenees. In fact, exper ts estimate that about four billion hoverflies are migrating high over southern Britain each year. As well as providing food for birds and other predators fur ther up the foodchain, it’s estimated that these individuals not only bring pollen that ensures the health of our plants as they visit billions of flowers but their offspring will consume up to 10 trillion aphids! We’re trying to track populations of marmalade hoverflies in Worcestershire to see whether and how climate change might have an impact on their numbers. Are there more or fewer darker individuals each year, are their numbers in summer changing, is there a change in the first, last and peak dates that they’re being seen? You can help with this by taking a picture of any that you see and submitting it with a little more information via the shor t form on our website www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ wildlife-sightings. Thank you.

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

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust Completely Bromsgrove

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Meet the dentists & staff of My name is Jayne Hughes and I am the Practice Manager of this ever evolving award winning practice. For the past 20 years I have been the voice at the end of the telephone and the face you see on arrival. Some of you will know me very well as I always strive to make every person who walks through our front door welcome and relaxed.

When you become a patient at our practice, you’ll realise it’s a family affair with a team who share a commitment to putting ourselves in your position to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and experience.

Raj Shah Hello, my name is Raj and I am one of the associates at Acorn Dental. I must admit, my first love is dentistry and all things teeth. Delivering the best oral care, function and aesthetics is what drives me; it is almost like a passionate addiction! In fact, this last unprecedented year has allowed me to focus on running the fifth successful year of a sustainable

preventative dental programme for a group of physically disabled women in Kenya. I do try to live a life outside of dentistry. I used to love swimming and competitively swam at many international events, but in the past few years my love for food, but more importantly, my wife’s cooking, has meant that I merely try and stay afloat now! I also love nature walks and taking in the surrounding scenery. My vision for the future is to continue promoting oral health both nationally and internationally but I might also try my luck at the Tango!

Dipesh Parmar Hi, I’m Dipesh Parmar. I am one of the partners at Acorn Dental. I’ve been a dentist for over a decade now and I’ve always wanted to be recognised as one of the leading dentists in the world, all thanks to my elder brother Manoj. I haven’t quite reached there yet, but I am proud that Acorn Dental is held in high esteem for clinical excellence in the UK. It has come at a cost though – I don’t look like how I do in my photo…many of my hairs have fallen out and the photo needs to be stretched horizontally! I have devoted much of my life to dentistry, it’s a little sad and obsessive, but it’s been very fulfilling. As a result, many of my hobbies have drifted away. When the neighbours are out, I get much enjoyment from playing the drums and other

percussion instruments. I’ll always make time for invitations to play a few frames of snooker and take a good beating in badminton. I tried skiing, but I had to get mountain rescue on my first trip, so I won’t be doing that again. Other than that, my wife says I’m great at ordering food at restaurants, driving from the passenger seat and pretending to be organised! I work Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at our Moseley branch and Wednesdays in Barnt Green. I focus on cosmetic and aesthetic restorative dentistry and orthodontics (fixed braces and Invisalign), basically all the things to make teeth look sexy! The best parts of my day are seeing the team in the morning and the joy from satisfied patients. The most stressful parts of my day are when I have dentists themselves lying in my chair. It’s not easy, but I won’t lie…it’s nice to be called the Dentist’s Dentist!

Anna Kukulska Hi I am Anna. I’m from Poland originally and have lived in the UK for the last 4 years. I joined the Acorn team in April and carry out all of the necessary root fillings as I am currently doing my MSc in Endodontics, which I hope to complete in September. I work Friday mornings at Barnt Green and Friday

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With all the many changes over the past few years, especially in this unprecedented year, I thought you would like a little insight into our personal lives as well as the professional one most of you see when you make your routine visits. For anyone who is not a patient of our very friendly practice please let me introduce you to our highly skilled and qualified team.

afternoons at the Moseley practice. I met my partner here and have a beautiful little boy Harry who is 14 months old. Aside from my little one keeping me mega busy, when I do get time I enjoy cycling, windsurfing and skiing. I also like cooking, reading and watching Netflix! Music is another passion of mine. My partner plays drums and I’ve brought an electric guitar and hope I can one day learn it enough to jam along with him!

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Acorn Dental Barnt Green Manoj Parmar Hi I’m Manoj, I am a partner at Acorn Dental which was established more than 20 years ago and I split my time between the Barnt Green and Moseley practices. Clinically, most of my time is spent placing and restoring implants and the rehabilitation of patients with failing teeth and dentistry, although I also very much enjoy caring and providing general dentistry to my long-standing group of patients who are now friends. Some of my time is also spent in dental education and I have held posts at the Birmingham University as a clinical lecturer, have been an Education Supervisor for thirteen new graduates and I am currently mentoring dentists placing implants. The Support Team We must not forget our wonderful support team who work tirelessly to make your visits as comfortable as humanly possible. Jodie and Naz are our dedicated nurses. They provide assistance to the dentists and comfort to the patients. Both of them brighten each day with their laughter and happy personas. It is an absolute joy to Sally Montgomery and Kelly Skinner our hygienists are passionate about oral health. They give us the tools and expertism to keep our mouths happy and healthy. Sally has been working here on and off for over 20 years. She had a career break for a few yeas whilst she brought up her triplets. Sally loves musical theatre, socialising and makes a very good Gin & Tonic. I know this from experience!!. Kelly has one child and is currently working hard on a Masters Degree in Nutrition. Kelly and I both share a passion for Australia. And finally me, Jayne Hughes. I have had a wonderful career in dentistry which has spanned 47 years so there’s not much I haven’t seen dentally

I feel very privileged and proud to be working alongside some of the finest clinicians, technicians and support team in the profession which is reflected in the quality of service and dentistry that we are always striving to provide at Acorn Dental. I am married with two children with whom I try to spend as much time as possible when not working. As a family, we enjoy cooking, movies, travelling and most of all music. I play the keyboard in a band, in which my wife is the lead vocalist and Dipesh the drummer and we have toured the country over the last 25 years with even the odd international gig! I hope to meet you soon!

have them as part of our team. Jodie has been part of our work family for 17 years. She started as a trainee and is now our Clinical Lead which she balances very well alongside her busy home duties, juggling two daughters, a dog and a cat!! Naz who has been with us for two years is our go to for advice on anything fashionable or designer. She spends her free time enjoying long country walks. In 2019 she volunteered to join a charity mission to help under privileged children with dental problems in Morocco. We are currently recruiting more nurses to join our support team. speaking. I have been happily married for 44 years and spend my free time enjoying my family, cooking and travelling. In fact, the photo of me was taken at a vineyard in the Yarra Valley, Victoria. My husband and I are planning a road trip around Australia to sample more vineyards, hopefully in January 2024. We all look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to Acorn Dental, Barnt Green soon. For any further information or if you would like to book an appointment you may telephone 0121 447 7300 or email barntgreen@acorn.co.uk

acorn D E N T A L www.acorndental.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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Barbecued Salmon Burger

RECIPE

Serves 4

Ingredients: For the burger buns: 100 ml beetroot juice (or ¼–½ teaspoon turmeric in 100 ml water) ½ cube fresh yeast (= 21g) 1 egg, separated 250g flour, plus extra for flouring 1 tablespoon sugar Salt 40g softened butter A few leaves of thyme For the salmon burgers and garnish: 600g salmon fillet, skin removed ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper or black pepper 3–4 tablespoons Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce 1 beef tomato 1 small courgette 2 dried figs 3 tablespoons mustard 1 teaspoon maple syrup 4 slices cheese

www.lovebritishfood.co.uk

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Method:

1. Prepare the burger buns by warming the juice (or ¼–½ teaspoon turmeric in 100 ml water). Crumble in the yeast and stir to dissolve. Separate the egg. Mix together the yeast solution, flour, sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, softened butter, a few thyme leaves and egg yolk and knead until it forms a soft, smooth dough. Cover and leave to rise in a warm place for roughly 1 hour. 2. Shape the dough into 4 flat burger buns and leave to rise for another 20 minutes. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan-assisted). Brush the burger buns with egg white, sprinkle with a little thyme and bake in the oven for around 15–20 minutes. Allow the buns to cool. 3. To prepare the salmon burgers, pat the salmon fillet dry and place in a blender with the pepper and soy sauce. Shape the salmon mixture into 4 patties and place in the fridge until ready to barbecue. Wash and hull the tomato and cut into 4 thick slices. Wash the courgette, trim the ends and cut lengthways into thin slices. 4. To prepare the fig mustard, blend the figs, mustard and maple syrup together using a blender. Cut the burger buns open and brush both sides of the bun with fig mustard. Place the salmon burgers on the barbecue for approx. 6-8 minutes, and add the tomatoes and courgette slices for the final 2-3 minutes (cook with the lid down if your barbecue has one). Top the bottom half of the bun with the tomato, courgette slices, salmon burger and cheese to serve. Enjoy! Tip: You can also toast the burger buns on the barbecue. Preparation time: approx. 10 min. + resting time for dough Cooking time/hands-on time: approx. 25 min. + baking time Total time: approx. 35 min. Nutrition data, per serving: kJ/kcal: 3457/825 | Protein: 51.4g | Fat: 41.0g | Carbohydrate: 60.0g

Farm Shop

B

rood Farm Shop is the countryside family food and drink venue that keeps getting better and better. It has a fabulous range of locally sourced fresh foods, an excellent café and a local gastro pub. Now it is adding an outdoor bar, picnic area and Big Topstyle tent where people can relax with an early evening glass of something special in very pleasant surroundings.

other gourmet products from specialist producers around Worcestershire and surrounding counties. Creative chefs produce the finest dishes from these very sources to serve in the family friendly café, which is open all day. They also create an appetising range of ready meals for sale to the public. The Brood pub, the Lygon Arms at Feckenham, likewise serves a great range of quality lunchtime and evening meals.

Brood was designed with the idea of a farmers, customers, staff, independent suppliers and the local community all supporting one another and keeping ‘food miles’ to a minimum.

The farm shop also sells gifts, hampers and household items such as beauty products and cleaning materials. A ‘Click & Collect’ service is available for people who prefer to shop online rather than visit in person. It is free on orders of £40 or more.

Owners Claire Davis and Phil Oliver produce their own beef, lamb, pork, chicken and eggs to the highest standards from their Redditch based farming operation, tracking each stage from farm to fork. They grow fruit, vegetables, plants and herbs themselves and source homemade preserves, bakery products, craft ales and ciders and

Brood’s newest feature is the outdoor bar. Head Butcher, Antony Fletcher says: “It’s a very nice setting in which to enjoy a glass of wine or a refreshing beer on a summer’s evening. There are some toys for children to play on and some outdoor games such as giant Jenga. Family is at the heart of everything we do here.”

Brood Farm Shop, Astwood Lane, Astwood Bank, Redditch B96 6PS, tel: 01527 868698 email: admin@brood.co.uk web: www.brood.co.uk

Lygon Arms, Droitwich Road, Feckenham B96 6JE, tel: 01527 892800, email: bookings@thelygon.co.uk web: www.thelygon.com

Completely Bromsgrove

27

Have you ‘herd’ about Chad the elephant? P

upils at Chadsgrove School in Catshill worked as a whole school community to design and paint an elephant sculpture for Worcester’s Big Parade which runs throughout the summer. Every class at the school had an input into the design and the colourful sculpture is divided into 15 sections to represent the 15 classes.

known or just starting out, from Worcestershire or further afield. They marched into the city on July 13th and will leave on Sunday, September 5th.

The elephant’s name was suggested by the pupils. Each class came up with an idea and the post 16 group chose their favourite, which was Chad.

After the parade ends, there will be the chance to say a final goodbye at a farewell event before each elephant is auctioned to raise funds for St Richard’s Hospice in Worcester.

Unfortunately, the school is unable to take pupils to the exhibition in Worcester city centre but teachers hope that families will go and seek out Chad - and the whole parade - during the summer months. Both big and small, the elephants have formed a stunning, free ar t trail through the city’s streets and open spaces, bringing together the community for one unforgettable event. Each sculpture has been sponsored by a business and individually designed by an artist, either well-

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Share in the excitement and keep up to date with the latest news on social media channels using #WorcsBigParade. You can also download a map at www.worcestersbigparade.co.uk

Bromsgrove Printing sales@bromsgroveprinting.co.uk 01527 873181 14 Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, B61 7AE

www.bromsgroveprinting.co.uk

Offers you a new way to buy glasses!

Are you looking for new glasses? Men’s and Ladies frames in all sizes. All lenses available in glasses and sunglasses. Varifocal, single vision, transition and thin lenses and more…

Great prices too.

Bring your prescription and we do the rest.

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

Join us.... We source the best produce possible! From Farmers and Producers who give you AMAZING GRAZING!

Our philosophy is simple:

COME AND FIND US...

You won’t be disappointed! 1 Tardebigge Court, Hewell Lane, Redditch B97 6QW OPENING TIMES: WED - SAT 10am - 4pm

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Tel: 01527 757343

“Constantly in the pursuit of excellence” Master Butcher

Duncombes This advert should be upside down!

Completely Bromsgrove

29

Annual Avoncroft Aleathon aids air ambulance charity

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hir teen runners from Avoncroft Hurriers running group led by their coach Natasha Tandy depar ted from The Boat and Railway on their third annual Avoncroft Aleathon on July 3. The group ran around Stoke Prior and Stoke Heath, visiting local pubs including The Ewe and Lamb, The Queens Head and The Navigation for refreshments before returning to their starting point. There was no entry fee for the run and instead all participants made a donation towards this year’s nominated charity, Midlands Air Ambulance. Added to donations from many of the pubs visited and those made online the total raised was £430. The group would like to thank everyone for their generosity as this amount is enough to fund a mission in one of the charity’s critical care cars. Avoncroft Hurriers are a social running group who meet every Saturday morning at 10am at The Ewe and Lamb car park. New members are always welcome. Find them on Facebook or contact Natasha on 07828 890774.

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Not all plums are purple!

Advertisement Feature

T

he Pershore Yellow Egg plum was discovered by chance in 1827 by George Crooke whilst he was walking through Tiddesley Wood, and in 1877 the Pershore Purple was created by Walter Martin as he crossed the Purple Diamond plum with the Rivers Early Prolific.

Since these historic occasions, the town has been synonymous with plums and throughout August, Pershore and its surrounding area will be turning purple and yellow in celebration of the fruit which has made the town famous and in which it has enormous pride. Ordinarily there is a month-long festival in celebration of the areas’ exceptional horticultural heritage.This year, due to ongoing restrictions, events and activities are sadly diminished, however, there are still plenty of ways to get involved.

For further information regarding Pershore and its award-winning Plum Festival please visit www. pershoreplumfestival. org.uk, email info@ pershoreplumfestival.org.uk or call 01386 565373.

• A wide variety of plums and festival merchandise will be on sale in Plum Alley (centre of Pershore) every Saturday throughout August and of course Prunella and Eggbert will be there to welcome you. • An exciting new Ar t Trail will launch on August 1st when the famous Mr Sce will be displaying his plum “works of ar t” in various locations throughout the town. Find out more at www.facebook.com/ PershoreArtTrail or @PershoreArtTrail • Following a well-supported inaugural Plum Heritage Art competition, an exhibition of all winning entries will be held in Pershore Town Hall between August 21st and 29th and at Number 8 from September 2nd to 22nd – don’t miss it! • Plum Festival is suppor ting the Pershore Welcome Back Weekend over the August Bank Holiday – this will include plum themed activities, such as decorated shop windows, plum sales and a plum themed market. Please support local businesses and farm shops during this time to buy your plums and taste them in the plum-themed menus at local pubs and restaurants.

by Angela Taylor Completely Bromsgrove

31

Bromsgrove district street theatre welcomes back visitors

S

treet theatre performers have dusted off their hoops, sewed costumes and practised their jokes to entertain residents and visitors in Bromsgrove district this summer. Bromsgrove’s free Street Theatre programme will be back for the first time since 2019 with six outdoor events running from 11am to 3pm in various locations running, alongside stalls, activities, and walkabout acts. Kicking off the theatrics at Catshill Village Meadow on Thursday, July 29th will be The Wonder Woman Street Show and Carlos Airhead. The following Tuesday, August 3rd, will see the next event popping up at Charford Rec Ground with family favourites Professor Chandler’s Punch & Judy Show and Bell & Bullock - Cabin Fever.

Daft as a Brush

Bell & Bullock will then be moving to Wythall Park on Wednesday, August 4th alongside Daft as a Brush. Thursday, August 5th is the turn of Hagley Playing Fields with performances from Daft as a Brush and Nat Lunatrick. After a shor t break, on Wednesday, August 11th, the Black Eagles will be at Rubery St Chad’s Park alongside Angie Mack Hula Hoop Street Show. Both performers will then be heading to Sanders Park for the final event on Thursday, August 12th. Visitors are welcome to bring chairs, tables and picnics. Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio holder for leisure services, Councillor Phil Thomas, said: “It’s been a long time coming but I’m so glad that community events taking place around the district again. Grab your picnic and some deckchairs and head to one of our beautiful parks to enjoy free street theatre entertainment, displays, children’s activities and more to keep the whole family happy during the summer holidays.” All events are COVID risk assessed but visitors are asked to follow the hands, face, space guidelines and

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Bell & Bullock

be respectful of other park users. Please note, the event programme may be subject to change depending on Government COVID-19 guidance. Outdoor performances are subject to change or cancellation due to adverse weather conditions. For more information and up to date details of events, visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/ events, call 01527 534030 or email events@ bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk

Advertisement Feature

Alvechurch Legal Services

M

ost people in Alvechurch will know of Alvechurch Insurance Services or David E Matthews. The faces will be very familiar to village residents, and the roots of the business date back nearly 50 years. After Brian Hawkins finally retired in October 2019 (at the age of 82!) after over 40 years with the firm there was a spare seat in the Alvechurch Office and thus the idea Alvechurch Legal Services was born… Laura Hawkins (the Daughter of Andy and Granddaughter of Brian) and James Raybone made it their mission to fill the large gap left by the retirement of Brian. James and Laura had both worked for national law firms, working all hours under the sun for little reward. We also both felt we could not offer our clients the service they deserved whilst working in such a pressured environment. So, Alvechurch Legal Services was founded so that they could have the freedom to treat our clients like actual humans! The firm specialises in Wills, Power of Attorney and Probate as they found that they loved this area of law and working together. However, they wanted to be able to offer their clients a friendly, local service but with realistic fix fee pricing.

You can usually find Laura inside the Alvechurch Insurance Services office however, she is still working from home due to COVID19 but you can still contact us on 0121 445 3307 or email laura@alvechurchlegal.co.uk

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www.thomasbrothers.co.uk A family concern Completely Bromsgrove

33

Planning a holiday at home with your pet? B

lue Cross is offering advice to pet owners who may be taking their dog away from home for the first time this year. For many pets they may find themselves in a totally different environment for the first time. They may have never seen the sea before or had much experience around livestock. The charity recommends owners plan ahead to ensure everyone enjoys a happy holiday. If you suspect your animal is suffering from heatstroke, remove them to a cool place, dampen their coat with tepid water on a towel and contact a vet immediately. To find out about pets looking for homes at Bromsgrove, or to donate towards their care, visit www.bluecross.org.uk

Here’s the Blue Cross pet holiday checklist: Make sure your mobile number is on their dog tag

Pack their favourite toys in case of rainy days

Check contact details of nearest vet and pack a doggy first aid kit - just in case

Pack any medicines they need

Pack their blanket or bed

Pack their food, treats and a chew to help them relax

Always have clean water for the journey and while away Take regular ‘wee stops’ if going on a long journey and never leave a dog in the car

If they might take a dip in the sea, or other water, take a towel and brush Keep on a short lead when around livestock and wildlife

When temperatures rise it is important to take extra care of pets to prevent them overheating and becoming unwell. Here are the charity’s top tips for keeping pets cool: Avoid walking your dog in the Apply a non-toxic human middle of the day and avoid sunscreen or one for pets to any strenuous games vulnerable areas like ears and noses Make sure your pet has access to clean water at all times Do the tarmac test – place your palm on the ground for five seconds, if it’s too hot for you it could burn your pet’ paws Light-coloured pets can get sunburnt which can lead to skin cancer. Keep pale furred pets indoors or in the shade.

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Make sure flea and worm treatment is up to date

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

Out and About – Something for Everyone! We wanted to highlight some great opportunities to get active, creative and generally energised. If you would like to be a part of a local sports club, group, organisation or event, then our BRAVO programme can help. BRAVO matches your interests, skills and availability to a huge range of volunteering opportunities across local clubs, groups and organisations. Search for “BRAVO” on our website: www.bromsgrove.gov.uk If you enjoy walking, or want to start a new activity, why not try our Walks for Health activity? Search “Walks” on the weblink above and see what else we have to offer! Keeping going with sports and physical activity, our ‘Strong and Steady’ falls prevention exercise classes are back up and running. Classes are being held at Bromsgrove Methodist Church, New Song Church (Sidemoor), Fathers Barn (Rubery), and The Women’s Institute (Wythall). To access the programme or for more information, please either call Hayley on 01527 881404 or complete an online registration form that can be found on our website www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/sas ESCAPE – Pain Education and Exercise sessions are for people living with arthritis of the knee or hip. The programme consists of two 1hr sessions a week, for 6 weeks. For further information please visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/escapepain. To “register your interest” please contact Hayley directly on 01527 881404. Turning to culture now, BirdBox is the exciting new space in Bromsgrove town centre. It’s a great space to bring to life your ideas for new events and new business ideas - A place to bring together the community to celebrate, share and explore. We are excited that the space is starting to be used to showcase the cultural and community offer from the town and the surrounding area. The BirdBox is situated next to Waitrose in the town centre. If you would like to know more about the new BirdBox space, please contact the Events Team events@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk With the promise of the life starting to return to normal, we’re excited that the council’s fantastic Street Theatre events will returning this summer and be popping up across the district during July and August, with more great events planned for later in the year including Bromsgrove Festival and the first Bromsgrove Pride event. Please visit the council’s website for further information – www.bromsgrove.gov.uk Finally, we wanted to celebrate the successful return of the scaled down version of the Court Leet event to Bromsgrove town on Saturday 26th June. The event took place under a wash of festive colour from the bunting dressing the town centre. The event takes place on the closest Saturday to midsummer day, the Feast of St John, with Bromsgrove Court Leet traditionally paraded through the town and proclaimed the Charter granted to the town by King John in 1199. It was fantastic to see the community embrace and celebrate the return of the annual event, it was a proud moment in the history of the town!

Completely Bromsgrove

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Bromsgrove Society of Model Engineers

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romsgrove Society of Model Engineers caters for all model engineering enthusiasts with a clubhouse and railway tracks of several gauges situated adjacent to Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, just off the Bromsgrove bypass. While the predominant interest is in modelling railways, particularly steam railways, several club members have modelled in other fields such as stationary engines, traction engines and even Victorian theatres.

The Society originated in 1982 when Frank Armishaw decided to start a model engineering society in Bromsgrove. He organised a public meeting that attracted some thirty people, after which a society was formed and efforts began to find suitable track site. One of the Society members was a volunteer blacksmith at Avoncroft Museum and he approached the then Director of the Museum with a view to the Society setting up in a field behind the Museum shop. An agreement was reached, and with a grant from Bromsgrove Council’s lottery fund, work started.

The increasing popularity of garden railways led to the Society opening a 16mm model railway in 1992, which now features a dog bone shaped layout, while in 2005, an extensive track in Gauge 1 scale was completed.

The summer of 1985 saw the completion of a passenger carrying track 180m in length with rails spaced to accommodate train gauges of 2.5”, 3.5” and 5”. Guests at the opening ceremony included Walter Allen, one time driver of “Big Bertha”, the legendary Midland Railway locomotive that had been built specially for the nearby Lickey Incline. In 2002 the track was extended into a second field, which increased a lap to its current length of 385m.

The Society supports most special events at Avoncroft Museum ensuring that Museum visitors can enhance their visit with a train ride. Traditionally, we also run midweek trains throughout most school holidays, although the Covid restrictions have curtailed these activities of late. Details of when we run can be found on our Facebook pages (search in Facebook for Bromsgrove Society of Model Engineers) and our website - www.bromsgrovesme.co.uk

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Steam trains seem to appeal to all generations from youngsters who have grown up watching Thomas the Tank to retired folk who remember steam trains on the main line. The steam engines used to give rides to Museum visitors are all owned, and mostly built, by members. The Society also possesses four diesel outline locomotives which can be made ready to run ‘at the flick of a switch’.

Fair Day in Bromsgrove

B

romsgrove Cour t Leet upheld the traditions of the town on Saturday 26th June with a scaled back, covid safe, Fair Day.

A procession limited to 30 people, which included 2 pipers, members of the Court Leet, Chairman of the Council Rod Laight and MP Sajid Javid, journeyed on the pavements from Kidderminster Road to the Housman Statue. The 1199 Charter granted to the Town by King John was proclaimed by the Bailiff of the Court Leet Joanne Slade and assizes of bread, ale and meat took place. Jo gave a short speech in which she thanked the people who had been instrumental in organising the day, including Market Master David Coulson and Arts Development Officer at Bromsgrove District Council Huw Moseley. 14 additional market stalls operated by local charities, organisations and businesses joined the regular markets in the High Street. The team of Fundraisers from St John’s Church were awarded the Somer’s Cup for the best dressed stall and the Bromsgrove Society were awarded second place. A traditional tasting ceremony was conducted at the Freshfields Orchards stall

where the Bailiff presented owner Greg Hunt with a certificate to confirm the tasting had taken place. The Court Leet then proceeded to carry out inspections and tastings at Bromsgrove Menswear, the Bromsgrove Cobbler, Coffee2 and Decanter Spirit. At the BirdBox the Town Crier gave the traditional cries and the Bailiff again proclaimed the Charter. An assize of ale and meat, with the assistance of Bayleys of Bromsgrove and the Butchers Block then took place. The ceremonies concluded with Ale Tasting at the Little Ale House. Bailiff Joanne Slade said “I was thrilled that Fair Day took place. We had worked hard with Bromsgrove District Council to ensure covid safety for all involved. I think it is so important that whilst upholding the traditions of the town, the Court Leet also supports local businesses and brings some colour and fun to the High Street. The town looked fabulous with the colourful bunting adorning the streets and this will stay in place for everyone to enjoy for the summer.”

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Age UK BRWF’s Sidemoor shop’s tenth anniversary A ge UK BRWF’s Providence Road team are inviting Bromsgrove residents to join them in celebrating ten years since the opening of the much-loved charity shop in Sidemoor.

When it opened on August 23rd, 2011, the shop was the local charity’s first venture into retail. Today, thanks to the dedication of Head of Retail, Sue Howdle, and her team, there are now eight shops across Nor th Worcestershire - and an online store - which raise valuable funds to enable the charity to provide suppor t and services for people aged 50plus living in Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest. The hear t of every charity shop’s success is its people and three people who probably know the Providence Road shop best are Barbara, Lyn and Val, who have been volunteering since it opened. Barbara said: “It has been a pleasure for me to volunteer since day one and meet so many lovely people - the staff have become good friends. The shop has become an Aladdin’s cave. Every day is different and you never know what you will find!’ Lyn added: “It has been a joy to watch this shop develop into the lovely place that it is now. Its success is due to the dedication and vision of Sue and the team who are constantly seeking ways to improve and to ensure that there is the right mix of items in the store.” Lyn also reflected on how attitudes towards charity shops have changed, adding: “There used to be a

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stigma associated with charity shops, but people are now star ting to recognise the role that they play in supporting the environment – one person’s unwanted items can be another’s treasures.” Val said: “It is a hardworking shop, but the team always go above and beyond to make you feel appreciated and it is a really happy working environment, with a sense of family. The shop has lots of regular customers, because people know they will be made to feel welcome.” The shop is managed by Age UK BRWF’s Luke Wardle who said: “Charity shops play an important role in a community, providing affordable shopping, encouraging recycling, whilst raising vital funds for an an important cause. It is also a place where people can come, feel free to chat and be a part of our family.” As par t of the celebrations, the shop is organising its biggest ever raffle, including prizes donated by Asda Bromsgrove, Centre Flowers, Focal Image and Jukes Insurance. Tickets will be on sale in the shop from August 2nd. To find out more about Age UK BRWF’s work and its shops call 01527 570490 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/brwf/

Still supporting young people in difficult times T

he Basement Project in Bromsgrove has been returning to more face to face working with young people since June as restrictions continue to ease.

All of the team have been double vaccinated and we have cleaning protocols, Lateral Flow testing and PPE in place to ensure we keep staff and young people as safe as possible. During lockdown we were able to keep operating virtually, continuing to support those we had been working with and picking up any new clients who needed help. Funders have been understanding of the need for us to change the way we deliver our services and have continued to fund the work. In fact, we have been as busy as ever with only a small decrease in achieving the agreed outcomes required for all our funders. We are very proud of the hard work and dedication of the staff who have kept in touch with young people and found ways to enable their suppor t to continue. A recent successful application to Awards for All from the National Lottery has meant that we have been able to continue to fund a par t-time worker for the next 12 months, which will ensure that we can continue to support young people in crisis. We are anticipating that the issues we see will become more complex due to the long-term effects of managing throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. It is always hard to describe exactly what we do as each young person who we work with will have their own personal issues that they need help with. Support ranges from providing a food parcel, advocating with debt or utility companies, preventing evictions, to just being a listening ear ; someone who young people can talk to and share their issues with. We have been overwhelmed by the generosity and continued support from local people during lockdown with regular donations to our food bank as well as monetary donations via our website. This is vital to enable us to operate. Our next campaign involves reaching out to local businesses and organisations for pledges of support to the Big Give Christmas challenge. The aim is to secure financial pledges by the end of August, which will make up par t of a funding pot that will be used to double the donations of members of the public during the Big Give Christmas Challenge in December 2021. If you would like to pledge to this campaign or find out more information, please contact community fundraiser Kelly Turner at kelly. turner@basementproject.org.uk

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Joanne Lewis

Darren Waldron Rebecca Boardman

Debbie Graham

Margaret Rose Davies

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Eight health warnings your fingernails may be sending you F

ingernails and disease don’t go together in most minds… but they should. Your fingernails can give you valuable health warnings and signal the presence of serious disease

Look at the curves, dips, ridges, and grooves. Look at your nails to see how thick or thin they are, if your nails are chipped or broken. Note the colour of the nail, the skin under it, and the skin around the nail. Think – have your nails always looked like this? 1. Discoloured nails Healthy fingernails should be pink with a touch of pinkish white (moons) near the base. If nails are dull colour or streaked with other colours, you may have a hidden health problem. • Green nails are a sign of bacterial infection • Red streaks in your nail bed is a warning of heart valve infection • Blueish nails signal low oxygen levels in blood • Dull nails a vitamin deficiency • White nails may signal liver disease, e.g. hepatitis • Dark stripes at the top (Terry’s nails) associated with aging and congestive heart failure 2. Thick nails Thick nails are not natural. We want strong nails. • Thickened nails can signal lung disease • Thick, rough-textured nails can signal a fungal infection • Thick, separated nails may mean thyroid disease or psoriasis • Unusual thickness may be a symptom of a circulation problem Look for allergic reactions to new medications. 3. Split nails Split nails that flake away in layers. Don’t blame frequent handwashing or nail polish. • Split nails result from folic acid, Vitamin C, and protein deficiencies • Split nails combined with a pitted nail bed (base) can signal psoriasis, which begins in nails 10% of the time according to WebMD • Split nails may result from chronic malnutrition Watch what you eat, check for psoriasis, look at overall health. 4. Concave (Spoon) nails Spoon fingernails signal internal issues. Spoon nails will be soft and curve up. The dip is often big enough to hold water. • Iron deficiency (usually from anemia) • Hemachromatosis, a liver disorder where your body absorbs too much iron • Heart disease

• Hypothyroidism Clearing the health issue returns the nail to normal. 5. Pitted nails Small dips or holes can be a result of banging up your hands – or a sign to look more closely at your health. • Psoriasis • Connective tissue disorder • Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss • Zinc deficiency (when the pit seems to form a line across the middle of your nail) Watch your hand to separate natural dents and holes from real, lasting pits. Dents will clear up quickly, but pits linked to disease linger. 6. Ridges Nails should have smooth surfaces with almost imperceptible lines. Some of the most common conditions associated with heavy ridge lines are: • Iron deficiency • Inflammatory arthritis • Lupus (for red lines at the base of your nails) Don’t just buff away your ridges! 7. Dry, brittle nails You don’t need lotion or cuticle oil. Just check your hormone and bacterial levels. • Thyroid disease leads to brittle, dry fingernails that crack and split easily • Fungus can make nails dry, even crumbly Both thyroid and fungal issues take time to treat. You need a full growth cycle. 8. Clubbed nails If you have plump skin that seems to swell around the nail, this could be Clubbed nails. It can mean: • Lung disease, especially if you have trouble breathing • Inflammatory bowel disease • Liver disease Your fingernails won’t be the only signs of these diseases, but they can provide insight or motivation to seek medical care. For more information just contact me on colette@need4change.com

by Colette Garside

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HISTORY

Barnsley Hall Annual Ball

Barnsley Hall Nurses

Behind Closed Doors: Barnsley Hall Hospital

B

arnsley Hall Hospital was a product of the Lunatic Asylums and Pauper Lunatics Act of 1845, which required all local authorities to make provision for what in those days were called ‘the insane’. It was commissioned in 1903 to relieve pressure on Worcestershire’s existing asylum, Powick Hospital near Malvern. The new hospital at Lickey End, Bromsgrove was designed by George Thomas Hine and cost £186,000. On 27 June 1907, the Countess of Coventry inaugurated the building by opening the doors with a gold key. Guests attended a short dedication service and then enjoyed a four-course lunch in the recreation hall. The site followed the traditional layout for a Victorian asylum. Radiating from each side of the main block were long corridors connecting with the ward blocks which housed the patients. There were separate wards for the Sick and Infirm, Acute, Epileptics, Chronic and Working patients. Segregation of the sexes was obligatory in those days and the asylum was designed so that staff and patients of both sexes had access to the central block without ever coming into contact with one another. Each of the eight blocks were angled to obtain the maximum amount of light and had access onto open areas, known as airing courts, where patients were walked twice a day to get fresh air. It was hoped that this would create a feeling of space and so alleviate the initial impression of being shut away behind locked doors. There was also a recreation hall or ballroom, which was said to be the largest in Worcestershire.

attitudes to mental health in general led to many more patients being treated in the community and the hospital closed its doors for good in 1996. Following its closure the huge estate became a bit of a white elephant. Controversial plans to develop the site as a major shopping centre and multiplex cinema led to a long-running battle with developers. Limited housing was eventually built, with the best of the old buildings being retained, although not before demolition of the iconic water tower. One of the airing court shelters was moved to Avoncroft Museum in 2012. The only original buildings remaining are the chapel and the front of the central administrative block, both of which are now offices. A recent book by Bill Holden, whose father was chief engineer at Barnsley Hall, traces the history of the hospital as well as his own family’s involvement with the site. The book is available from the Bromsgrove Society website, www.bsoc.co.uk/publications/books

At the outbreak of the First World War, and again in the Second World War, Barnsley Hall provided emergency medical services as part of the war effort. From 1939-45 the hospital catered for civil as well as military casualties and treated a wide range of medical conditions, including spinal injuries and neurological cases. After the war, Barnsley Hall returned to its core mission, as a self-contained community for the mentally ill. The development of new treatments and changing

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by Mike Sharpe Barnsley Hall today

Red Spider assists inspection in St John’s

F

ollowing the discovery of a split in a nave roof beam at St John’s Church a close up inspection was required to determine the full extent of the problem and for a repair solution to be designed.

At 13m above the ground level a hands-on inspection wasn’t going to be easy, but thanks to the team at Red Spider Hire the beam was reached. The church’s Structural Engineer, Ian Ceney from c2designs, was able to carry out the hands-on inspection from the basket of the Red Spider access lift. Due to the flexibility of the access lift it was also possible to check all the nave roof beams for damage and inspect the clerestory windows from inside the church.

Engineer. I’m so pleased that the splitting joint was noticed and inspected quickly, and its great news that we can open the doors at church for services and other events. Anyone who is able to help with the funding of this project can get in touch via email friends.stjohns.church@gmail.com”

The central section of the church – the nave – in its current format, dates back to the late 13th or early 14th century. The present roof structure of tie beam and crown post trusses was constructed when the nave walls were extended to form the clerestory elevations. During the 1850s restoration work by Scott was undertaken on the nave roof. Old medieval wooden trusses were upgraded in part with new materials. Where replacement tie beam lengths were added, traditional table scarfed joints were created between new and original timber sections. It is this joint on the beam which is opening and causing concern. Detailed plans have been drawn up by the Structural Engineer to rectify the problem and it is hoped that the work to secure the beams will be carried out before the winter. In the meantime there isn’t believed to be a safety risk and St John’s is open! Friends of St John’s Chairman, Jo Slade said “We are extremely grateful to the team from Red Spider for making the access possible for our Structural

by Jo Slade

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Candoo Web Design

Rail Matters from BARRUP

( Bromsgrove and Redditch Rail User Partnership)

T

he “Stations as Places” Programme, driven by the West Midlands Station Alliance, aims to promote local Railway stations as Community “Hubs” rather than simply access points onto the rail network. The vision is to develop local railway stations, such as Bromsgrove, as an asset highly valued within the Community, one which contributes to economic growth as the Town and the North East Worcestershire District gradually come out of lockdown and which acts as a hub for creativity, heritage and social amenity.

In Worcestershire, the “Worcestershire Community Rail Partnership” (WCRP) has been established to enable local communities, such as ours, to work with the three Train Operating Companies.i.e West Midlands Trains (WMT), Cross Country Trains (XC) and Great Western Railway (GWR) to improve the eighteen stations within the County. The benefits of the WCRP are fourfold. Firstly, it engages with local communities to improve station facilities and encourage support for rail use. Secondly, it encourages Station Adoption Groups to be formed to enhance station environments and build local pride in the facilities. Thirdly, it improves station accessibility by sustainable travel plans. Fourthly, it suppor ts links between stations and local businesses. Of the four stations within BARRUP, three (Alvechurch, Barnt Green and Redditch) have been adopted already and Bromsgrove is in the pipeline. However, in the meanwhile, three local businesses in Aston Fields, - No 3A Coffee House, The Ladybird Inn and the Ibis Budget Hotel - have joined as “Station Neighbours” to help you, and visitors to the town using the Station, when the Station is unstaffed. They will offer - a safe area in which to sit, access to a toilet, drinking water, a socket for charging a mobile phone, a telephone for making contact with a friend or relative, and information on local taxi services. People using the services are not obliged to buy food

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Candoo Web Design

and drink, although obviously they are more than welcome to do so! This is just the first step of many in making Bromsgrove Station a major asset for the Town and the Community.

by Nick Taylor

AVONCROFT CRICKET CLUB

Blend of experience & youth proves winner A

s we move into the second half of the 2021 cricket season, the remaining battles for Avoncroft’s Saturday league sides are starting to crystalise.

The jewel in the crown this year has been the club’s new Third XI, who are currently sitting top of their league with 3 games to go. Captain Jason Huxley has led his mix of young and old players from the front, with several match winning knocks contributing to a personal batting average of just under 70!

The club’s youthful Second XI have struggled in recent weeks after a run of very difficult fixtures against some of the league’s stronger teams. The Seconds now sit in eighth (out of 10 teams) place and will be looking for a couple of big victories in the next few weeks to pull away from danger.

Things have been a bit tougher for the First and Second XIs. The First XI occupy a midtable spot after 13 games, but in a tight league, Croft sit just one win above the relegation zone so cannot rest on their laurels in the games ahead.

Croft’s junior training will continue throughout the summer, however July saw the end of the club’s All Stars programme, which has been a resounding success in 2021. More than 60 boys and girls aged from five to eight signed up to the scheme and they have all brought an energy and excitement to Croft’s Stoke Heath ground over the eight-week programme.

Consistency with the bat remains an issue; in successive weeks, Croft comfortably chased down 174 against Brockhampton with 15 overs to go, but then failed to chase just 145 in a 21 run defeat against Martley. Improved consistency in this area will go a long way to backing up the effor ts of the bowlers – Alex Richardson’s first 5-fer for the First XI showing a recent example of Croft’s strong efforts with the ball.

The club is pleased that so many have decided to stay over the remainder of the summer and looks forward to building on the success of the programme in 2022.

by Paul Athey

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Preparations for the new season are going well I

from Aberystwyth Town FC, having started at Birmingham t’s been a busy month so far for manager City’s academy followed by a spell at Northampton Town Brendan Kelly with both pre-season before playing in Germany for a couple of years. matches and a flurry of new signings. New Season's Preparations goingmidfielder well for Bromsgrove Sporting Energetic Jourdain Masidi has joined from

Player news first. Kieran Dunbar signed at the endIt'sofbeen a busy month so far for manager Brendan withisboth pre-season matches Littleton and last but notKelly least goalkeeper Ákosand a flurry of new s June and can operate in several positions. His previous Player news first.Onódi Kieran Dunbar at the endthe of June andon can aoperate in several positions. whosigned has joined club season’s loan from His previous Town, Villa. Stalybridge Leamington more recently Redditch clubs include Fleetwood Town, Stalybridge Celtic, include Fleetwood Aston He Celtic, joined Villa inand October 2018 fromUnited. ETO Leamington and more recently Redditch United. Next to arrive following his departure Hereford FC was striker Demetri Brownfor who the will be familiar to S FC Györ in his from native Hungary, initially playing fans who saw him play for Worcester City. under-18s then the under-23s. He made his debut for Next to arrive following his departure from Hereford Versatile attacker Cameron Ebbutt having been at Birmingham City and Bristol Rovers arrived at the beginn Villabyagainst Liverpool in the FA Cup 3rd round in FC was striker Demetri Brown who will be familiar and to he was followed another striker Connor Taylor from Leamington who previously played over 100 gam January earlier this year. Sporting fans who saw him play for Worcester City. Tamworth.

internationalstar clearance on arrival fromCowley Aberystwyth Town FC, havingto started at Birmin Sporting’s striker Jason has decided Versatile attacker Cameron Ebbutt having been atShama Bako needed by a spell at Northampton Town before playing in Germany for a couple of years. continue his footballing career at Stourbridge whilst Birmingham City and Bristol Rovers arrived at the City's academy followed Energetic midfielder Jourdain MasidiBrown has joined from signed Littleton and not of leastlast is goalkeeper Ákos Onó ‘keeper Jono who at last thebut end beginning of July and he was followed by another striker has joined the club on a season's loan from Aston Villa. He joined Villa in October 2018 from ETO FC Győr in season has now left for Stafford Rangers. Connor Taylor from Leamington who previously played native Hungary, initially playing for the under-18s then the under-23s. He made his debut for Villa against Li in the FA Cup 3rd round in January earlier this year. over 100 games for Tamworth. The pre-season has gone well so far for Sporting Sporting's star striker Cowley has decided to continue his footballing at Stourbridge whilst 'kee withJason wins against Studley, Sutton Coldfieldcareer Town and Shama Bako needed international clearance on arrival Brown who signed at the end of last season has now left for Stafford Rangers. Romulus but a loss to Littleton. There are still half a The pre-season has gone well so far for Sporting with wins against Studley, Sutton Coldfield Town and Romu dozen friendlies still to play before the season proper loss to Littleton. There are still half a dozen friendlies still to play before the season proper starts in the mid starts in the middle of August. August. Fixtures for August and September Fixtures forare:August Day Tue Sat Sat Tue Sat Sat Mon Sat Sat Sat Sat Tue

Date 03-Aug 07-Aug 14-Aug 17-Aug 21-Aug 28-Aug 31-Aug 4-Sep 11-Sep 18-Sep 25-Sep 28-Sep

and September are:

K/O V Opponents Competition 7:45 PM H Coleshill Town Friendly 3:00 PM H Hendon Friendly 3:00 PM H Leiston Southern League 7:45 PM A Alvechurch Southern League 3:00 PM A Needham Market Southern League 3:00 PM H AFC Rushden & Diamonds Southern League 3:00 PM A Stourbridge Southern League FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round - opponents to be decided 3:00 PM H Hitchin Town Southern League Reserved for FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round 3:00 PM H Royston Town Southern League 7:45 PM H Hednesford Town Southern League

The Sporting Women's and Veterans (over 35s) teams are training again whilst the teams Colts willare start their seas The Sporting Women’s and Veterans (over 35s) September.

training again whilst the Colts will start their season in

by Phil Baker Photos by Richard Bowcott

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All informationSeptember. can be found on the club's web site, www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk. Enquiries can be sent hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk.

All information can be found on the club’s web site, www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk. Enquiries can be sent to hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk.

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