Completely Bromsgrove issue 35

Issue 35

November 2021

Completely

Bromsgrove

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activities, from music sessions to baking, help to boost people’s mood and enable them to recall happy memories. Residents are also supported to stay fit and active by going on walks, doing dancing, games and gardening.

At Chandler Court, residents like Mavis enjoy keeping the home’s gardens looking colourful, and growing produce for use in the kitchen. Residents maintain a sense of purpose by doing light tasks around the home – pushing the mobile library trolley to people’s rooms, or acting as bingo caller.

Birthdays and anniversaries are also celebrated in style, with a homemade cake and even a party.

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aspects of each person’s care and lifestyle to their unique needs and interests.

Every day is full of fun, friendship and family time at this care home in Bromsgrove. The team sees the individual behind the dementia, empowering residents to live life in the way they want – doing the things they love, and even trying new experiences.

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Keeping active is key to living well with dementia.

They’ve taken part in the local memory walk to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society, and residents loved the Olympics-themed day, with bean bag tennis and balloon badminton. Bob says, “I like to keep active, so the games were a lot of fun. I even won!”

To find out more about dementia care with a difference at Chandler Court, please call 01527 907828 or email paul.chambers@careuk.com Chandler Court care home Recreation Road Bromsgrove B61 8DT careuk.com/chandler-court

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Welcome to the November issue of Completely Bromsgrove Here we are with the penultimate issue of 2021 – another bumper edition packed full of features and informative articles that hopefully will keep you engaged now that the nights are drawing in and the clocks are going back on October 31st.

Bromsgrove’s first Pride of Bromsgrove event filled the High Street with love and vibrancy on October 2 and it was lovely to see so many residents turn out to support the LGBTQ+ community despite the soggy conditions. Turn to page 10 to read more.

Pat Tansell, a very well-known figure in our town, talks to Completely Bromsgrove about her five years as chairman of The Bromsgrove Society.

Pat has now handed the role over to Jo Slade, the former Bailiff of Bromsgrove Court Leet.

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Contents 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22

Best wishes,

Michele Ford

26 36 55

Our MP’s message Residents Survey Bromsgrove Pride We Spray Anything Garden edit B’grove Flower Club Balsam Busted The Granary Gardens Worcs Wildlife Trust

26 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 43 44

Completely

Mobility Boost/Grafitti Art Recipe Pat Tansell, B’grove Society Jewellery Designer Award Winning Veronica Lickey End Protesters Health & Wellbeing History The Heritage Centre Photography Club

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

4 Completely Bromsgrove

Last, but certainly not least, I’m going to mention the ‘C’ word. With Christmas fast approaching, Palace Theatre Redditch is performing the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk while Worcester Theatres are serving up Beauty and the Beast.

As Christmas 2020 was virtually non-existent due to Covid, I’m sure everyone is raring to make up for it this year so make sure you book your tickets now to avoid disappointment. I defy anyone not to enjoy: “He’s behind you” “Oh no he’s not!”

I will leave you with good wishes for a safe Bonfire Night on November 5th. Whether you’re attending an organised event or staying at home, please be mindful of pets.

46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55

Fairfield Flicks Fairfield Live Music The FeckenOdeon Primrose Hospice 50 Avoncroft Arts Welcome Back Fund Arts Alive Walking Sports Centre Grassroots Cricket 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.

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5

A message from our MP

L

ike so many of my colleagues in Parliament and constituents, I was devastated to learn of Sir David Amess’ murder. He was a great man, a great friend and a great MP who was just fulfilling his democratic role. My heart goes out to his wife, Julia, his family, and all those who loved him. He will be sorely missed.

I would like to thank all the constituents who have reached out to me and expressed their support for Members of Parliament carrying out their democratic role. Suppor ting and meeting our constituents is a huge privilege and one that must continue. As a proud champion of his community, it would have certainly been what Sir David would have wanted.

It was great to meet with several local business owners recently, including the management team at Bromsgrove Spor ting ahead of their FA Cup tie against Grimsby Town. Though the result did not go Sporting’s way, over 3,000 fans cheered on the team at the Victoria Ground, which is a fantastic boost for the club.

I also had the oppor tunity to visit several businesses, including GTAccess in Aston Fields. A company which

6 Completely Bromsgrove

star ted in Bromsgrove is now one of the largest independent powered access companies in the UK. The business is a big boost to the local economy and employment, and I wish them every future success.

Of course, all businesses must star t somewhere and that’s why I took the time to support Holly Lewis, as she opened the premises of her new business, Holly Berry Bakes. As a young entrepreneur, Holly worked hard to establish the business online whilst furloughed last year. I’m sure the new shop in Bromsgrove will be a fantastic success and I urge residents and businesses near Sugarbrook Lane in Aston Fields to suppor t it.

I will be continuing my work as local MP and Health Secretary in the busy parliamentary weeks ahead. As ever, if I can be of any assistance to my constituents, please email sajid.javid.mp@parliament.uk

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7

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.

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Have your say in annual residents -only survey

R

esidents of all ages are being encouraged to take part in a wide-ranging survey that helps inform Bromsgrove District Council’s thinking for the year ahead.

The annual Community Survey asks residents for their views and opinions about issues affecting them, their local area, and district council services. The results are then reported to members and officers of the council to review and action.

The council would like as many residents as possible to respond from across the district, to obtain the fullest possible picture of what is impor tant to the community.

Leader of the council, Cllr Karen May, said: “We value the feedback of our residents, and the community survey is a prime opportunity for you to tell us your feelings, issues, experiences and opinions so that we can shape our services to fit the needs of our communities. We take the results of this survey very seriously, so, I hope that representatives from all communities in our district take part and help us plan for the future.”

The 2021 survey is available for anyone to view at www. bromsgrove.gov.uk/consultations and will also go

8 Completely Bromsgrove

before the council’s Community Panel, a group of residents who choose to actively take part in regular engagement sessions.

It covers a range of areas and is shorter than past versions so should take about five to 10 minutes to complete, with the option to ‘save and continue’ if you want to take a break while filling it in. You can also pick up a hard copy from Parkside Offices or contact the equalities team on the details below.

The closing date for responses is 5pm on Friday, November 12th. For more information, contact the council’s Engagement, Equalities and Policy team at equalities@ bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk or 01527 548284.

If you would like to apply to join the Community Panel, you can do so via the consultation pages or using the contact details above.

Completely Bromsgrove

9

The Pride of Bromsgrove O

n Saturday 2nd October, Bromsgrove held its first ever Pride event. The high street was festooned with colourful street decorations and many shops and businesses displayed rainbow flags or window displays. Although the weather didn’t play ball, there was a great turnout from the local community as well as those that had travelled from further afield.

Hundreds of people enjoyed the party-like atmosphere, with musicians and performers introduced by a drag queen compere. The day also featured stalls run by a wide range of charities and organisations with an affinity to the LGBTQ+ community.

The event was able to go ahead thanks to funding from Bromsgrove Council’s small grants scheme, money from Platform Housing Group’s Community Chest and a donation from Cllr Kyle Daisley. This was spent on market stalls and paying the talented singers and performers who helped the day go with a swing.

The Bromsgrove Pride committee were delighted with how the event went, stating ‘We had people coming up to us telling us it was the first time they felt ‘seen’ in the town and that the event meant a lot to them.’.

Despite the soggy conditions, organisers are keen to start planning for a potential Bromsgrove Pride 2022… once they’ve recovered from this one!

On that note, Bromsgrove Pride is currently on the lookout for new committee members. Anyone interested in becoming involved should email bromsgrovepride@ gmail.com or get in touch via social media.

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GARDENING

Opulent Orchids I

never went out looking to be an orchid collector. It was a happy accident. I’m pretty sure that I don’t suffer from Orchidelirium, Orchidomania or even orchid fever; the phrases used to describe the era of flower madness in Victorian times when collecting and discovering orchids reached extraordinarily high levels.

I received my first Phalaenopsis or moth orchid as a gift; full of bright pink, showy flowers that lasted for months. I was smitten. Little did I know that these are the easiest and most common orchids to keep as they can grow in low light and do not require extreme humidity.

They really hate overwatering; this is the most common cause of a dying orchid. Experts say “when you think your orchid needs watering, don’t do it but wait another couple of days.” Orchids like tight spaces and won’t need repotting until the roots have grown through the holes in the pot and are dangling in the air. If your new orchid is potted in moss then repot it immediately in a proper orchid potting mix which contains wood chips or bark.

There are more than 25,000 different species of orchids. For this reason they have different care requirements, so always check the label and care

instructions for your particular type before your buy.

Phalaenopsis are widely found in garden centres and supermarkets. They come in a wide range of colours and are easy to grow. They like to grow in a special bark rather than compost, in a spot that is bright, but not direct sunlight, and like humidity.

Dendrobiums require a cooler growing environment with less humidity than moth orchids.

In autumn move plants to a bright windowsill or porch, reduce watering, and they can remain cool and dry until spring. When temperatures start to increase again, increase watering.

Cymbidium orchids are easy to grow and prefer cool growing conditions. Flowers appear from late winter to early spring. To flower well they need a distinct drop in temperature between day and night from mid to late summer.

Jobs to keep you busy in November Lift dahlia tubers after the first frost, clean them off and store in dry compost in a cool, frost-proof place

Replenish gravel mulch around alpines to keep the foliage clear of damp soil, which can cause rotting

Plant bare-root hedging, roses, trees and shrubs, before the weather turns really cold

Protect plants that are borderline hardy, such as agapanthus, with a thick mulch of straw or garden compost

Cut down faded perennials that are looking tatty, then mulch the surrounding soil with garden compost

Gather up and bin the fallen leaves of roses affected by blackspot, so they don’t carry the disease over to next year

Have a great month but find time to peruse the seed catalogues for next year’s bounty. Happy Autumn.

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14 Completely Bromsgrove

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Bromsgrove Flower Club

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f you love flowers, come and enjoy watching an afternoon of flower arranging, with Bromsgrove Flower Club. This friendly club meets every month on a Thursday at 2.00pm.

At the next meeting on Thursday 18th November, we will welcome Shirley Henderson with her title “Tis the Season” So come along have a cup of tea and perhaps take home one of Shirley’s beautiful arrangements which will be raffled at the end of the meeting.

New members and visitors warmly welcomed.

All Saints Church Hall. Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B60 1AF www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk

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Balsam busted!

A

group of green-fingered Lickey End residents were so fed up with the environmental damage caused by Himalayan Balsam in their community they decided to take matters into their own hands.

Gathering on the first Sunday of October, a group of 20 residents cleared a long stretch of the brook at Lickey End Recreation Ground, shifting 85 large garden bags full of weeds between them.

Flooding caused by the Spadesbourne Brook overflowing has been a repeated issue in Lickey End, leading to Alcester Road having to be closed completely on the most serious occasions.

Earlier in the year local councillor Rob Hunter lobbied Bromsgrove District Council to take action and a specialist contractor was brought in to dredge and clear the brook. The council is now developing a regular maintenance strategy to avoid a repeat of the flooding incidents which residents have experienced with growing frequency in recent years.

The council’s clearance works made the park look much smarter but they also gave the Himalayan Balsam an opportunity to become even more dominant. Invasive plant species such as Himalayan Balsam are a growing problem in this country and are considered a major threat to biodiversity along with climate change and pollution. Himalayan Balsam outcompetes native plants, altering ecosystems and habitats. It clogs up

18 Completely Bromsgrove

waterways and threatens the survival of weaker plant species as well as causing flooding.

There have now been two community gardening events to clear Himalayan Balsam in Lickey End, with another event planned next spring. Once the Himalayan Balsam is under control, the community hopes to re-establish a stronger variety of native plants along the brook to improve biodiversity.

Councillor Rob Hunter, who led the project, said: “I was amazed at the turnout and would like to thank everyone who came and helped, it is amazing the difference you can make when you get a group together like this. I would also like to thank my colleagues at Bromsgrove District Council for all their work on the brook and for their support with taking away all the weeds.”

County councillor Josh Robinson, who also helped out on the day, added: “It was a reminder of what a fantastic community we have here in Bromsgrove and Lickey End and I’m really looking forward to getting together again next year. Please look out for details of future events in the local media and on Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful social media pages.”

Toil in the soil pays off as garden grows charity cash

A

stunning garden in Stoke Heath is opening to the public in November to raise cash for charity and help banish the seasonal blues with its inviting blend of lights, sculptures and festive decorations.

The Granary is owned by Jonathan and Lorna Hill, who moved to the village from Redditch in 1996 and chose the barn conversion and beautifully landscaped garden because of its location and lovely views, especially the windmill at Avoncroft Museum of Buildings and surrounding countryside.

Lorna said: “There was a rose bed and the rest of the garden was trees and bushes. Some of the trees outgrew the garden space and we’ve removed a few to create spaces to grow flowers.

“We have had continual problems trying to improve the heavy, stony, clay soil and dry areas next to Leylandii conifers. Before the barn was converted, the surrounding land was agricultural farmland and orchards and we still have two of the original plum trees.

“During lockdown, like many other people, we spent a lot of time trying to improve the garden and tackle jobs that were on hold as well as a couple of more creative projects.

“A rotten wooden railing by the pond was replaced by a bespoke metal one, made by local firm Art Metal.

A sun patio and adjoining flower beds, were created last year by GJS Landscaping, together with a sculpture of gigantic allium flowers, also made by Art Metal.”

20 Completely Bromsgrove

A metal warthog sculpture called Walter arrived at The Granary from Zimbabwe via the Hanbury Show and there are two other art installations that Lorna has created using recycled materials.

“We then had multi-coloured floodlighting installed

by Sam Baker of SJB Electrical and have been delighted with the results. We also benefit from the services of Mark Stevens and Dragonfly Gardening,” added Lorna, who has been busy flower arranging using the flowers she has grown from seed.

In late summer 2020 Jonathan and Lorna had the idea to open the garden to the public to raise money for the various charities supported by the National Garden Scheme.

The first two open events in August, were a great success with £500 raised and the garden will be open again on November 19th and 20th from 4pm.

These events will be festive with decorations mainly made from plant material decorating the garden in place of flowers. Tickets costing £4 per adult must be booked in advance by phone or text to 07766 011946 or email lornashill0468@gmail.com Light refreshments including home-made mince pies and Christmas cake, a sales table, artwork and cards will be available.

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Photo: Pete Walkden

Photo: Andy Rouse/2020VISION

Photo: Pete Walkden

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

22 Completely Bromsgrove

Ghost birds

Photo: Brian Eacock

Y

ou’re unlikely to forget an encounter with a barn owl – whether it’s catching a glimpse of one through a car window or having one float past you on silent wings as you walk. These are birds that evoke myths and legends.

It’s not just their white and mottled-honey colouring that makes their ghostly appearance; their feathers are designed for silent flight. Feathers at the front of their wings are serrated and those at the back are tattered; together with fine down that covers the remaining feathers and legs, barn owls ensure soundless wingbeats. Not even small garden birds can achieve this – think of a tidy-winged blue tit darting from a feeder into the cover of a shrub and you’ll hear what I mean.

It’s not just feathers that make them perfect hunters when they’re flying over open fields looking and listening for voles, mice and other small mammals.

Their ears are set at slightly different heights on their head, which helps them to pinpoint exactly where their prey is (they can even hear through snow). Their eyeballs are huge and their shape means that they can only see forward, which is why they’re able to turn their heads so far. Despite this, their long-distance eyesight is actually quite poor – not a problem for hunting but it isn’t great for road-safety!

Barn owls aren’t particularly territorial and some will allow this year’s youngsters to remain close by but others will chase them off from late summer through to November. Where they end up depends on the availability of food, dry roost sites (such as barns or old hollow trees) and a potential partner for next year’s breeding season. This is the time of

year you might see owls using a nest box or flying into open-fronted buildings.

Whilst barn owl numbers naturally wax and wane, the general trend is a steady decline. This is largely due to a change in farming practices, which squeeze out habitat for their small mammal prey, as well as the loss of traditional nesting sites as old, hollow trees are removed and barns are converted into houses. Whether freezing cold or just constantly wet, the forthcoming winter will be hard for our ghostly friends. During the extreme winter of 1947, for example, it’s estimated that the UK’s barn owl population more than halved through starvation.

When you’re snuggled up this winter, spare a thought for our poor barn owls and other wildlife surviving the frosts, rain and snow.

You can help us to manage our land for the benefit of barn owls and other wildlife by buying a virtual adoption pack for a loved one this coming Christmas.

Visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/shop to find out more.

Follow us on Twitter @WorcsWT Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/worcestershirewildlifetrust

Completely Bromsgrove

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If you have any queries or wish to make an appointment, please contact us: 01527 328328 | 07581 880371 | frankmulhall@hotmail.com www.bromsgrovedoorsandwindows.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

25

Group closure leads to generous donation

T

he closure of a Bromsgrove group which suppor ts residents with disabilities has kindly donated remaining funds to Bromsgrove District Council’s Shopmobility service.

Bromsgrove Disabled Access Group, which closed earlier this year, donated £1650 to the council-run service which assists visitors with limited mobility and enables them to shop in the town.

The council intends to use this money to upgrade and/or purchase replacement vehicles to add to the fleet.

Portfolio Holder for Health and Well Being, Cllr Shirley Webb, said: “This money will make a huge difference to our Shopmobility service and the residents and visitors they serve. We cannot thank Bromsgrove Disabled Access Group enough for choosing us to receive this kind donation and we promise to continue their work helping disabled residents in Bromsgrove.”

Shopmobility provide free equipment,

including manual and battery powered wheelchairs and scooters, for any visitors who have difficulty walking so that they can get around Bromsgrove Town Centre. The service is open six days per week and staff can help customers decide on the right equipment for their needs, how to use it and offer access to specially designated parking spaces for service users.

Anyone who wishes to donate to the Shopmobility service can do so by contacting the team on the telephone number or email address below.

To find out more go to www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/ shopmobility, contact the team on 01527 837736 or email shopmob@ bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk

Nathan’s bus-y with striking shelter artwork I f you’re travelling through Stoke Prior and Stoke Works keep an eye out for two stunning artworks which have brought welcome colour to bus stops and are sure to brighten your day.

They are the work of Birmingham mural artist Nathan Smith, who was commissioned

by Stoke Prior Parish Council to give the drab concrete shelters a new lease of life.

Nathan has long been an enthusiastic, self-taught artist but only turned his hobby into a business when he was made redundant by Severn Trent Water when the pandemic hit.

His colourful creations adorn gardens and businesses across the West Midlands and in London, Liverpool and Leicester and, as his artworks are outside

26 Completely Bromsgrove

and he is able to adhere to social distancing guidelines, Nathan has barely had time to put down his paintbrush over the past year.

While Completely Bromsgrove was interviewing and taking photos of Nathan a bus stopped at the Stoke Prior shelter with the driver commenting that he thought the mural was very good, echoing the positive reaction that Nathan has received.

Check out more examples of Nathan’s work at www.facebook.com/ Graffitieffect/

Rechart just how far you can go With the right support� Sixth Form Open Morning Saturday 13th November Our unique place alongside one of England’s great cathedrals and rivers, our history and our shared values have made King’s Sixth Form a place that not only inspires ambition, but also shapes character and instills independence. Join us at our forthcoming Open Morning to discover more. #ShapedByKings

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Completely Bromsgrove

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Completely Bromsgrove

29

Pumpkin and lentil soup with bacon

RECIPE

A

thick and hearty soup. Substitute with butternut squash if preferred.

For vegetarians omit the bacon and switch beef stock for vegetable stock.

Preparation Time 15 mins Cooking Time 30 mins

Method:

Slice the spring onions. Peel the garlic and finely dice. Cut the pumpkin into two halves, remove the core, seeds and skin and cut the flesh into pieces.

Heat 2 tbsp. of olive oil in a big pan and fry the spring onions and the bacon until cooked. Take them out of the pan and put them aside. Put the pumpkin flesh and garlic into the pan, fry for about 5 minutes and add the beef stock. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the pumpkin is softened.

With a blender purée it until smooth. Add the soy sauce and pepper. Add the lentils, the bacon pieces and the spring onions. Top with the parsley and serve it hot.

Serves 4

Ingredients: 150g spring onions 150g bacon (diced) 2 garlic cloves 1000g pumpkin (e.g Hokkaido or any other you like) 2 tbsp. olive oil 1 can of lentils (350g) 1200 ml beef stock 3 tbsp Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce ¼ bunch of parsley, chopped Pepper

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30 Completely Bromsgrove

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Chairman Pat reflects on five years at helm of The Bromsgrove Society

P

at Tansell is well known to many residents as a friendly face at Bromsgrove Library, where she worked from 1981 until early retirement in 2019.

She’s also just completed a five-year stint as chairman of The Bromsgrove Society.

Founded in 1980, the society’s motto is Pride Preservation Progress and Completely Bromsgrove asked Pat to look back over her time at the helm with those themes in mind.

“When I became chairman in 2016, I only expected to be in the role for three years. One of my first initiatives was to hold an away day for our committee members, which led to us producing a five year forward plan for 2018-23.

“I am personally most proud of the event in September 2018 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the official opening of Sanders Park. Organised

by Bromsgrove District Council, the event included free enter tainment and activities including circus and music workshops and information stands for local organisations and groups.

“I was responsible for gathering together a selection of pictures from people in the community to display on the day which reflected how they had used and enjoyed the park since 1968. I was particularly pleased that members of the Sanders family were able to travel to Bromsgrove for the event and cut the celebration cake.

“Over the past five years the society has increased its social media presence and can be found on Facebook and Twitter @BromsgroveSoc “Residents may also remember visiting our PhotoBooth at events including the street theatre and food festival. The pictures were posted on a shared Instagram account with the Friends of St. John’s @celebratebromsgrove “A recent project was the digitisation of the Bromsgrove Messenger from 1860 to 1914, in partnership with the L.G. Harris Trust with more to follow in a second phase. Copies are now available via the subscription services the British Newspaper Archive and Find My Past. We have also digitised the less wellknown Bromsgrove Gleaner from 1854 to 1857.

32 Completely Bromsgrove

“I also now edit the society’s newsletter which comes out three times a year. Since taking over, I have moved away from covering our own news and events and broadened the content to include more information about events in the community and updates on what’s new in and around the town.

“We have a small grants scheme and application forms can be found on the society’s website www.bsoc.co.uk “Recent grants include St Andrew’s Church roof, Pepper Wood expansion appeal, foodbanks during the pandemic and £3,000 for the Church Tower Restoration Fund at St Michael and All Angels Church in Stoke Prior. We have also suppor ted Bromsgrove Festival and Bromsgrove International Musicians Competition.

“Our season of Tuesday history talks usually held at the Methodist Church Centre from September to April are continuing via Zoom.

by Teresa Green “The Bromsgrove Society Summer School and Bromsgrove Lecture were not held in 2020 and 2021 but we are making plans for their return in 2022. I gave the lecture myself in 2019 on the theme of Bromsgrove on the Eve of War, which covered the town and district in 1939.

“We’ve taken part in Heritage Open Days and organised history walks around the cemetery, Catshill, Charford and town centre. We’re also partners in producing town centre and Charford history panels

and have strong links with Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful with members joining litter picks in all weathers.

“The society also supports the Court Leet’s Fair Day, St George’s Day and events such as the Poppy Picnic in the Park in 2016. We also lay a wreath at the war memorials in Crown Close for Remembrance Day and VJ Day. “I have now handed over to Jo Slade to take up my new position as vice chairman and hope Jo will enjoy the role as much as I did.”

Completely Bromsgrove

33

NEW BUSINESSES

Jewellery designer Dean F

rom carpentry to his new venture as a jewellery designer, Dean Clow has long been inspired to create beautiful and functional items.

Dean’s recent move into precious metals has allowed him to truly let his imagination fly. His stunning collection of 15 insect themed pieces is now available via Bevere Gallery in Worcester.

He uses silver and gold, enhanced with semi-precious gems, vitreous enamel or artisan glass beads that are also individually made to complement each creation. Each item of jewellery is made entirely by hand, using traditional silversmithing techniques and methods, ensuring that every piece is individual and unique.

“My objective is to create ethereal jewellery that will produce an emotion or reaction,” Dean told Completely Bromsgrove.

“Insects can appear to be small and insignificant, but they play a vital role in the health and ecology of our planet and should be celebrated. We ultimately need to respect and promote their existence because in a world without them, our own future is unsure.”

Creativity has always played an important part in Dean’s life from childhood.

“I’d make things out of wood and metal and now I’ve moved onto precious metals,” said Dean, who lives in Bromsgrove and is an assessor and trainer in construction at South and City College in Birmingham.

Dean’s varied and rich skillset has been accumulated from a lifetime of research and experience in areas including construction, photography, portraiture, metal processes and furniture making.

34 Completely Bromsgrove

lets his imagination fly A degree in education from the University of Wolverhampton and a passion for obtaining and teaching innovative production techniques has enabled him to push the boundaries of design to create unique and musthave items.

“Jewellery making was something I’d been thinking about for a while, but you need a lot of equipment, which costs around £3,000,” he said.

“As you’d expect, I made quite a few mistakes when I first started but I’m really pleased with the collection, which has a Chanel look and a 1920s feel, and I’m planning to make other pieces such as earrings.

“I’ve always been fascinated by insects from when I watched nature programmes hosted by David Attenborough as a child. Insect jewellery used to be very popular in Victorian times and I’ve given it a contemporary twist.”

Jewellery designer Dean Clow

Completely Bromsgrove wishes him well with his exciting venture and hope that the exquisite pieces fly off the shelves!

Dean’s insect collection can now be viewed at www.beveregallery.com/ artists-makers/dean_clow/

Completely Bromsgrove

35

Pride of Britain award honours Veronica’s dedication over two decades T

ireless Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer founder Veronica Kumeta was lost for words when she was presented with a regional ITV Pride of Britain Award for fundraiser of the year.

Anyone who knows and has been helped by Veronica will acknowledge that’s quite some achievement as her passion and dedication rarely leaves her shor t of something valuable – and inspirational - to say.

Veronica, who lives in Stoke Heath, was doing some late afternoon shopping when she received a phone call to say she was among the nominees. Her first thought was that a friend was winding her up.

A whirlwind of video interviews followed – “I hate being filmed but accept I have to do it to promote the charity” – and during filming at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham ITV weather presenter Des Coleman arrived to present the award.

“I was really shocked,” said Veronica. “I’ve been doing this for 21 years now and will continue to promote the message that it is so important for women to check their breasts and to go for a scan if they get an appointment. If the cancer is caught quickly enough it can be treated.

“When Sarah Harding died in September I was flabbergasted. Both her mum and aunt had breast cancer and they’re still here.”

Veronica set up the charity in 2000 with Sue Macmaster when their friend Carol Knaggs was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Carol lost her battle with cancer as did Sue when she was later diagnosed with the disease but Veronica’s fighting spirit and desire to get things done bulldozes whatever obstacles she encounters ensures that her dear friends’ legacy lives on.

Lockdown presented a mighty challenge, but Veronica tackled it head on. Realising that women must now undergo chemotherapy sessions without a relative or friend with them for suppor t, she created “A hug in a bag” containing items such as lip salve, colouring and mindfulness books, a blanket,

36 Completely Bromsgrove

water bottle, hat and dark nail polish to prevent discoloration.

“We’ve handed out 500 so far and a lot of the items have been donated,” said Veronica, who has learned over the years that face to face approaches for help from supermarkets and the like are far more effective than emails - though it’s tough on both time and shoe leather!

At the time that Completely Bromsgrove went to press, we were unaware if Veronica would be named

the nation’s fundraiser of the year at the Pride of Britain ceremony in London but we’re keeping everything crossed.

If you would like to suppor t ‘a hug in a bag’ and can help in any way with donations of items or funding, visit lfbc.org.uk You can also follow the charity on Facebook at Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer or BreastMates Central.

by Teresa Green

Completely Bromsgrove

37

Call for rethink on highways plan by Lickey End residents

W

orcestershire County Council has come under pressure to rethink changes to the A38 after a group of Lickey End residents staged a protest.

Worcestershire County Council has come under pressure to rethink changes to the A38 after a group of residents staged a protest.

The action in Lickey End followed a previous protest in central Bromsgrove over plans to install a ‘monster bridge’ connecting the two sections of Old Station Road.

The county council’s £50 million Bromsgrove Route Enhancement Programme (BREP) aims to improve connectivity on one of the county’s busiest roads. Phases One and Two of the scheme are already underway but the final phase is drawing growing controversy.

Around 100 residents gathered on the corner of School Lane to demand that the county council listen to their concerns over restricting access to a popular junction and adding an additional lane of traffic.

Scheme F, as it is known, would see the right hand turn from the A38 northbound removed and an additional southbound lane added to the Lickey End stretch of the A38. The action follows a petition against the proposals which was signed by almost 300 local residents. Dozens of people have written to the major works team to register their objections.

Residents living beyond School Lane in Lickey End fear the plans will have the oppositive effect

38 Completely Bromsgrove

of increasing connectivity, as drivers will be forced to extend their journeys and divert to the M42 junction one roundabout, creating more traffic congestion and pollution. Residents living closer to the proposed changes fear their roads will become more dangerous due to higher volumes of fastmoving traffic.

Liberal Democrat councillor Josh Robinson, who represents Lickey End on the county council and attended the protest, said: “While we welcome improvements to walking and cycling, we are concerned about changes that could make Lickey End harder to navigate and increase local traffic congestion. I would urge those who will be deciding the future of this scheme to speak to residents before any decision is made.”

The protest was also supported by Liberal Democrat district councillor Rob Hunter. He added: “It’s easy to see how these proposals will move traffic off the M42 quicker but hard to see what the benefit is to the local community here in Lickey End which already suffers with above average levels of air pollution. Instead of adding yet more traffic to local roads we should be looking at how we can encourage people out of their cars by improving walking and cycling provision.”

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39

Get ready to look your best this Christmas

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

C

hristmas is just around the corner and with the amount of department stores that have closed during this pandemic, many of you will be buying your cosmetics and creams online again this year.

However, if you wish to keep your skin looking beautiful and have something that no other cosmetic house has, please take note!

Did you know that much of what you put on your skin absorbs straight into your body, almost as if you’d eaten it?

Pampering your skin and body is one of my passions and getting high-quality nourishment into and onto our bodies is so impor tant.

However, this is easier said than done when we have a toxic beauty industry that’s poisoning millions of people with chemicals that can cause hormone imbalances, and all sorts of medical problems as well as aging the skin in the long run. I trained as a Beauty Therapist too many years ago and I have followed the industry over these many years and I have seen so many companies and products come and go.

The list of chemicals that can be highly hazardous to our health, such as propylene glycol, parabens are used frequently in beauty products. The list is painfully long and I have been banging this drum for over 35 years now.

Many products labelled “organic” can also turn out to contain dangerous ingredients. When I found the Renu Advanced Skin Care Range my skin not only changed but so did many of my clients and this included health changes as well.

I always think a picture is worth a thousand words and here are just a few of the results.

This skin care range contains what I wrote about in September - Redox Molecules and how important they are to our general health. This is the only skin care range in the world with these unique molecules. So why would you not want the best for your skin?

Cleanser The cleanser has an amazing smell. It contains aloe vera, apple, watermelon and lentils these are all natural moisturisers. The ingredients are oil free and give 24 hours hydration. We have oils from red seaweed so we don’t use those harsh chemicals such as alpha hydroxicacid that exfoliate.

Moisturiser When we think about a moisturiser is it a day-time moisturiser and a night-time moisturiser but with this moisturiser that is not necessary. This is a food based product, beetroot, coconut oil, jojoba oil that resembles the skins natural oils. These oils helps to protects us against UV rays and moisturises. We have extracts of olive that suppor ts that youthful skin, vegetable vitamin E plus fermented lactose bacillus this is included to support the

40 Completely Bromsgrove

skin barrier and supports the skin from bacteria as well as skin cell renewal.

Serum and the Renu 28 The only products in the world with Redox Molecules to get the cells talking.

BEFORE

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Our Renu Advanced Skin Care Range has been formulated with two products containing Redox Signaling Molecules to help with this aging process. DermaTest have independently tested our products and we have received a 5 star validation.

BEFORE

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Have I piqued your interest for a safe product and a unique Christmas gift. To know more about how to order and get your Christmas shopping star ted just go to www.need4change.com and click on the Renu Advanced Skin Care Range.

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41

HISTORY

Fire! Fire! A short history of the local fire brigade

Bromsgrove Fire Station, 1901

W

ooden buildings, thatched roofs and naked lights from candles and oil lamps made fire an ever-present danger for our ancestors. Early fire-fighting efforts relied largely on volunteers.

In the days before a standing fire brigade, townsfolk relied on their friends and neighbours to help them when a fire broke out. The Constables’ accounts for Bromsgrove for 1684 record the purchase of a fire hook and ladders to enable locals to pull burning thatch from threatened buildings. From the early 18th century, the better off tradesmen took out fire insurance and some of the larger fire insurance offices provided small horse-drawn fire engines.

When Dr Hornsby died in 1880, his place as captain of the Volunteer Fire Brigade was taken by John Humphreys, dentist and chemist, of 84 (now 29) High Street. He oversaw the move to a new engine house near the cattle market in Church Street in October 1882. Around the same time, the installation of fire hydrants by the East Worcestershire Water Company greatly enhanced the efficiency of the brigade. The first motorised fire engine was purchased in 1919.

In 1728, William Brooke, a metal worker and bell founder, agreed to maintain Bromsgrove’s fire engine for 20 years for 20 shillings per annum. When he died in 1744 his fire engine was valued at £2.10s. In 1822 it was ordered that ‘a new engine with proper pipes and buckets be purchased at the expense of this parish.’ The Norwich Union Fire Office later presented the town with a fire engine, which was housed in a wooden building near the old workhouse, in the modern-day Strand.

The Fire Station near the cattle market was extended many times. By 1939, the brigade comprised a chief officer, station officer, sub-officer, 12 firemen and 80 auxiliary firemen.

During World War Two, the brigade became par t of the National Fire Service. It was then transferred to the control of Worcestershire County Council.

The maintenance of the fire engine was one of the duties taken over by Bromsgrove’s Improvement Commissioners in 1846. They employed a superintendent to maintain the engine and find men to operate it. One such was William Brown Junior, who in 1860 received a salary of £6 per annum. In 1863, the Birmingham Fire Office presented an engine which had previously been in use in Dudley. It was housed in a building near to the Vicarage gates in St. John’s Street.

By 1878, the Local Board, aware that the aging superintendent, William Duffill, was not up to the job, advertised for young men to form a Volunteer Fire Brigade.

Sufficient men to form an effective unit came forward under the leadership of George Harcour t Hornsby, a young doctor who was already a lieutenant in the local Volunteer Corps.

Subscriptions were received, enabling the brigade in 1879 to purchase a new Merryweather fire engine, similar to those used in London, at a cost of £210.

42 Completely Bromsgrove

The Fire Station at the Cattle Market was closed in 1968 when the brigade moved to a new site in Windsor Street.

Most recently, in 2014 the brigade moved to a combined facility, shared with the police, in Slideslow Drive.

Merryweather steam fire engine 1894

by Mike Sharpe

Memories rekindled at Heritage Centre opening O

ld Bromsgrovians, parents and governors were among those who attended the opening of the new Bromsgrove School Heritage Centre.

Whether guests were trying to find themselves in a school photo, interacting with the history screens, admiring the expedition sledge or chatting over history, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Nikki Thorpe, school archivist, said that one of the most exciting conservation projects has been the work on Captain Robert Falcon Scott’s Antarctic sledge. “‘We have been lucky enough to have the conservation expertise of Pieta Greaves, from Drakon Heritage who has previously worked on the Staffordshire Hoard at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery,” said Nikki.

“Pieta spent two weeks with us working on the sledge in Old Chapel to clean it and consolidate pest damage, breaks and loose supports and treat red rot to prevent further deterioration. It is now gleaming in its bespoke display cabinet and is the centrepiece of the Heritage Centre.

Nikki added: “It has been a privilege to have worked on this project giving value to the lives of Old Bromsgrovians over centuries. I am thankful to my predecessors for their school archive collecting and excited for the future of this living archive and the many opportunities we now have to share stories of our school community.”

Judy Skelton, who opened the Heritage Centre, is the granddaughter of Old Bromsgrovian Reginald Skelton, chief engineer on Scott’s Discovery expedition between 1901 and 1904.

Judy has co-researched and co-edited two books on the expedition and subsequent sledge trials and transcribed and published her grandfather’s journals of the Discovery Expedition, The Antarctic Journals of Reginald Skelton, making these journals publicly accessible outside of a record office for the first time.

Ten students from the school’s archive club supported the archivist, de-framing photographs, repackaging archives, listing items on the catalogue and moving archives to the new centre.

The school is keen to engage students, staff and the wider Bromsgrove community with its unique collections and to continue to capture the history of the school and its community for future generations.

Access to the centre is in consultation with the archivist and the school welcomes enquiries about the archive and collections. Please email archivist Nikki Thorpe for further information at NThorpe@ bromsgrove-school.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

43

Derek Waldron

Lee Moody Margaret Rose

Rebecca Boardman

Debbie Ballinger

44 Completely Bromsgrove

Rebecca Boardman

Covid Recovery Bromsgrove District Council are now offering a 6 week Covid Recovery programme. The programme concentrates on helping people who are living with the after effects of Covid, the focus is on breathing and understanding how to recover from breathlessness.

Over the 6 weeks of the programme the participants are being introduced to different coping techniques as well as being encouraged to gradually increase their activity levels.

The feedback from participants has been very positive, helping them to connect with others who are experiencing the same difficulties with everyday life has been beneficial and over the longer term we are sure that the right type of regular exercise will put them on the road to recovery.

If you are living with Covid symptoms and would be interested in joining in with the programme you can register your details at www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/covidrecovery or call the office on 01527 881404 to discuss in more detail.

50+ Exercise Classes If you’re looking for an opportunity to meet new people and keep active, we have a variety of 50+ exercise classes that you can join. From Pilates, Stretch & Tone to Zumba Gold and Active Seniors we’ll have something that’s suitable for you to enjoy with our friendly fully qualified instructors at different venues across Bromsgrove.

Please get in touch with us and we’ll be able to point you in the right direction to get you out and active. For more information, please scan the QR code above or search for ‘Community Exercise’ on www.bromsgrove.gov.uk

Bromsgrove Pride

miscelanea11/Shutterstock.com

The Arts Development Service were delighted to support the first Bromsgrove Pride event to ever take place in Bromsgrove High Street on Saturday 2nd October. The event was integrated into the normal market offer and was a great success despite the poorer weather. We look forward to bringing Bromsgrove Pride back to the high street in the future.

Friends of St John’s Christmas Market We are delighted that the Friends of St John’s Christmas Market will be returning to Bromsgrove High Street on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th November, alongside the town’s normal market, having been unable to take place in 2020. The stalls will be packed with plenty of great Christmas gifts and treats, with something for everyone! For further information please contact Friends of St John’s Passionate about the heritage of our town; raising funds through community based events for the ongoing maintenance, restoration and improvements at Bromsgrove’s landmark and historic church building.

Follow Friends on @FriendsStJohnsBromsgrove and Twitter @FriendsStJohns

Grab your popcorn for our autumn and winter season

A

utumn and winter nights are long and the days are chilly, so why not take your slippers and favourite cushion to Fairfield Flicks and watch some great movies.

Screened at Fairfield Village Hall, Stourbridge Road, the films always attract a good attendance with cinema enthusiasts coming from across Bromsgrove and the surrounding area. The aim is to bring people together and to help reduce loneliness and isolation.

On the evening of Remembrance Sunday, November 14th at 7.30pm, The Zookeeper’s Wife (12) tells the true story of how Jan and Antonina Żabiński rescued hundreds of Polish Jews from the Germans by hiding them in their Warsaw zoo during World War Two. Feel good film Finding Your Feet (12) on Wednesday, November 17th at 7.30pm stars Imelda Staunton, Celia Imrie, Joanna Lumley and Timothy Spall.

On the eve of retirement, a middle class, judgmental snob (Staunton) discovers her husband has been having an affair with her best friend and is forced into exile with her bohemian sister (Imrie) who lives on an impoverished inner-city council estate.

Ending the month is a golden oldie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s (PG), on Wednesday, November 24th at 2.15pm.

A young New York writer sponsored by a wealthy woman falls in love with the charming, impulsive and eccentric call girl who lives next door. Based on a story by Truman Capote and the winner of two Academy Awards including best song, the film stars Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard and Mickey Rooney.

On Sunday, December 12th at 7.30pm, enjoy a musical drama to help get you in the Christmas spirit. Black Nativity (PG), stars Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, Tyrese Gibson, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Jacob Latimore, Vondie Cur tis-Hall and rapper Nas. Struggling to pay the bills, single mom Naima (Hudson) sends her teenage son Langston (Latimore) to live with his estranged grandparents, Reverend Cornell and Aretha Cobbs (Whitaker and Bassett) in New York City. At first Langston resents

46 Completely Bromsgrove

their strict household, but with the help of new friends — and a little divine intervention — he embarks on an inspirational journey of self-discovery that brings the whole family together.

This Twixmas, enjoy a film for the family, Stardog and Turbo Cat (U), on Wednesday, December 29th at 11am. A madcap animated adventure featuring the voices of Luke Evans, Nick Frost and Bill Nighy it follows the story of new friends Buddy and Felix who set out to find Buddy’s lost owner and discover inner superpowers along the way!

Start the new year with a true-life spy thriller, The Courier (12A) on Sunday, January 9th. This film tells the story of an unassuming British businessman Greville Wynne (Benedict Cumberbatch) who is recruited into one of the greatest international conflicts in history.

The Last Letter From Your Lover (12A) will be screened on Wednesday, January 19th at 7.30pm.

This adaptation of JoJo Moyes’ best-selling novel is a passionate, dualnarrative love story set in the French Riviera and London during the 1960s and present day. The film stars Joe Alwyn, Felicity Jones and Callum Turner.

Starring Hugh Laurie, Dev Patel, Tilda Swinton, The Personal History of David Copperfield (PG), rounds off the month on Wednesday, January 26th at 2.15pm. From birth to infancy, from adolescence to adulthood, the goodhearted David Copperfield is surrounded by kindness, wickedness, poverty and wealth, as he meets an array of remarkable characters in Victorian England.

Admission is £5 for evening screenings and £4 for morning and afternoons.

For fur ther information and to book advance tickets, visit

www.fairfieldflicks.org.uk

Kickstart the Christmas season with live music at Fairfield Village Hall

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ive music lovers and indie music fans are sure to enjoy Jack Goodall and The Kick plus Rob Peters at Fairfield Village Hall in Stourbridge Road on Saturday, November 27th at 8pm.

Singer, songwriter and band frontman Jack Goodall has taken a unique and contrary musical path, at times funky and bombastic and at other times delicate and sedate.

Goodall, who has released three solo albums, has toured the UK, Ireland and Canada playing both solo and with a band.

The Kick are Jack Smith on drums, David Rees-Jones on percussion and Emma Reading on guitar.

In September 2021, the band released their new album Out of Here which has received many positive reviews.

Fans include Elbow lead singer Guy Garvey.

Rob Peters is a songwriter and performer with several albums under his belt and another about to be released, The Moon Who Thought It Was The Sun. Peters is a seasoned musician who has played drums for The The and Everything But The Girl. When he isn’t singing his own compositions, Peters performs cover versions.

Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets are priced at £8.

Advance booking is advisable to avoid disappointment, visit www.fvca.org.uk or www.fairfieldflicks.org.uk

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Enjoy drama on stage & screen in Feckenham F

eckenham Village Hall is the venue for dramatic performances on both stage and screen in November. The FeckenOdeon Cinema Society has two critically acclaimed films to look forward to. the person the other wants dead. They would both have airtight alibis for the time of the crime, and there would be no possible connection between killer and victim. One treats it as a joke while the other is deadly serious. Alfred Hitchcock directs Raymond Chandler’s tense screenplay based on Patricia Highsmith’s first book.

Tickets for all FeckenOdeon films can be booked online through feckenodeon.co.uk, by phone on 0333 666 3366 or in person at The Rose & Crown and The Village Shop in Feckenham.

On Friday, November 12th at 8pm, cinema lovers can enjoy Green Book (12A).The first film to be shown in The FeckenOdeon’s smaller cinema, FeckenOdeon 2, since the pandemic is a life affirming comedy that won several major awards including the Oscar for best picture.

In New York in 1962 nightclub bouncer Tony Lip gets taken on as a driver for African-American jazz pianist Donald Shirley on a tour of the Deep South, where racism and segregation are still commonplace. Despite their backgrounds being worlds apart the unlikely couple form an alliance and develop a friendship.

The film, which stars Viggo Mortenson and Mahershala Ali as the unlikely couple, is named after the guides that were published for black travellers in segregated America in the 1960s. The guides offered advice on areas that were safe for black people to enter, places they could stay and bars they could go to.

Moving to the stage, Multi Story Theatre Company present Hefted, a play by David Lane, in the village hall on November 21st at 7pm.

Spanning 600 years, the story begins in 1475 with a supernatural birth before moving through nine different scenarios to an imagined 2075, in which stories from the past are retold to heal the present.

Some stories are fantastical, others dramatise real events: all explore the notion of being ‘hefted’ – deeply connected to the land. Presented by four actors who conjure a score of characters between them and interspersed with song and a spectacular soundscape, Hefted opens the door for the stories of rural communities to be shared.

Strangers On A Train will be shown in the main auditorium on Saturday, November 30th at 7.30pm. This classic film has retained its ability to shock. Two strangers meet on a train and “exchange murders” with each killing

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Multi Story is a professional company based in North Devon. Supported by the Arts Council, the company tours high quality shows to rural venues throughout the country.

Hefted is presented in association with Live and Local, Worcestershire’s Touring Arts scheme. Tickets are available at www.ticketsource.co.uk/feckenham

Get active and become Santa for the day P

rimrose Hospice’s Santa Fun Run will take place at Arrow Valley Country Park on Sunday, December 5th.

Participants can run, jog or walk the one kilometre or five kilometre route at your own pace to get active this Christmas.

Angélique Dalton, chief operating officer at Primrose Hospice, said: “We’re so pleased that our annual Santa Fun Run is able to happen this year after the challenging time we have all had throughout the pandemic.

“This event will raise vital funds that will allow us to support more people across North East Also taking place in December is the hospice’s Lights of Love appeal, a wonderful way to remember your loved ones and help raise funds.

Worcestershire with life-limiting illnesses. After taking part in the run several times I can personally vouch that the mince pie afterwards is well worth the running!”

All of the hospice’s services are free to patients and families, however the hospice must independently raise just under £1.75million annually to fund them.

Find out more and register here: www.primrosehospice.org/events/santafun-run/ times. To find out more, call 01527 871051 or visit www.primrosehospice.org/

You can make your dedication online and add it to the online dedication page, along with a chosen photograph, message or memory. All dedications received by Monday, November 15th will be included in the printed 2021 Book of Remembrance.

Names will be displayed around the Christmas trees situated at ASDA Bromsgrove and Kingfisher Shopping Centre and will also be available to view in Books of Memory at each Lights of Love service below: • Tree blessing outside ASDA Bromsgrove – Saturday, November 20th, time TBC • St John the Baptist Church, Bromsgrove – Sunday, November 21st at 6pm • Beacon Church Centre, Rubery – Sunday, November 28th at 4pm • St Stephen’s Church, Redditch – Sunday, December 5th at 3pm Find out more at: www.primrosehospice.org/ support-us/fundraising/lightsoflove/ Primrose Hospice supports patients with lifelimiting illnesses and their families, providing them with the care and support they need during difficult Completely Bromsgrove

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Thriving arts society marks key milestone Avoncroft Arts Society is celebrating its 75th anniversary in style this year.

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he society was founded as a charitable organisation in 1946 as part of the Quaker movement by George Cadbury Junior and is currently supported by Roger Cadbury and the Bournville Village Trust for the advancement of the education, pursuit and enjoyment of fine arts and crafts for the local community.

Currently the society provides opportunities for • Painting classes in all mediums • Pottery • Enamelling • Sugarcraft • Radio club

• Embroidery and sewing • Quilting • Folk dancing • Photographic society

More than 200 members have continued their hobbies and interests remotely during lockdown with the suppor t of the society.

To celebrate this milestone, the society will be hosting an exhibition of work and would be delighted to welcome members of the public on November 27th and 28th from 10am to 4pm at the Redditch Road site in Bromsgrove.

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Highlights include: • An ar t exhibition in the main hall with paintings by society members for sale • A small craft fair in the Garden Room with a variety of exhibitors • Art demonstrations by our three art tutors in the Forge The exhibition will be officially opened on November 27th by a local celebrity and a raffle and refreshments will be available. Admission to the exhibition will be £1 and all proceeds will go to the renovation of the main hall.

We are keen to inform the local community of the society’s work and hope to encourage new members to join and extend the range of activities on offer.

Do come and join us for the celebrations and help us to continue to deliver arts and crafts to the people of Bromsgrove.

Welcome Back!

A

music, food and drink festival kicked off a series of events and initiatives which will take place over the next six months across Bromsgrove.

Using cash from the Government’s Welcome Back Fund and under the ‘Your People,Your Places,Your Bromsgrove’ banner the free festival, at BirdBox, featured a range of local vendors and performers to showcase the talent on the District’s doorstep.These included Ascotts, Bayleys, Betty’s Waffles, Café 3A and Pizza Heaven.

It launches a series of projects which will run over the next six months as the Council and NWEDR work across the District’s centres to spend the money allocated by the Welcome Back Fund, which, as part of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), is to support the safe return to high streets and help build back better from the pandemic.

Your People, Your Places, Your Bromsgrove is a programme of activity that will run to the end of March 2022 during which time the organisers will engage with local businesses, local community and arts groups and schools to get involved in a range of activities currently being developed.

Council Leader Karen May said: “Like Councils across the country we have benefited from these funds and it’s important that we invest it to benefit our residents.

“We will be visiting our centres to find out where best to invest the money, whether this be in street furniture, a clean-up project or an event.

“I am delighted that the inaugural event at BirdBox was a great success and look forward to experiencing

the events over the next six months as we continue to work towards a Better Bromsgrove for everyone.”

Watch this space!

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Discover the joys of making music together D

o you think you would enjoy blowing your own trumpet? Or getting on the fiddle? Or following in the footsteps of George Formby?

Bromsgrove Arts Alive has three member organisations who would love to help you do just that and they all welcome beginners - or near beginners.

Maybe you used to play an instrument years ago or have one gathering dust somewhere or you just fancy having a go at something new.

Bromsgrove Ukelele Club (‘You can’t buy happiness but you can buy a ukelele’) welcomes new members and runs beginner workshops. They meet on alternate Fridays at Stoke Prior Village Hall. Unlike guitars, which usually have six strings, ukuleles have just four and so are easier to play chords on. And they are also fairly cheap to buy. Visit bromsgroveukulele.org Bromsgrove Amateur Strings are non-auditioned and very friendly. Quite a few players were complete beginners as adults or took it up again after learning as a child. Most of their players range from about grade three to grade eight. There’s a wide age range who meet on Saturday mornings in Bromsgrove and there’s an understanding of the difficulties of taking up an instrument when older as well as an appreciation of the opportunity to play together – and plenty of banter too. Visit georgiavale.com Blackwell Concert Band for wind and brass players perform at local parks, garden centres and various festivals, playing marches, jazz, calypso, blues, pop, rock, film scores and more. They have a training band for adult and child beginners, especially welcoming children who might not be getting opportunities in school, and even have a supply of brass instruments for anyone who would like to learn.

They meet every Thursday evening in Catshill. Visit blackwellconcertband.co.uk

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Bromsgrove Ukulele Club

Walk this way for fun, friendship and fitness

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f you’re looking for fun in a safe and friendly environment with like-minded people, Bromsgrove Walking Sports Centre has lots to offer.

Centre leader Alan Gormley takes up the story: “Our Walking Sports Centre is two years old and new people are discovering us all the time.

“We began with a single sport, walking hockey in 2017, with no thought of other sports. That’s been a great success and is now spreading around the world. In autumn 2019, we piloted Walking Football which again proved popular.

“Since then, we have gradually added new walking sports – netball, rugby and cricket – and we now have eight sessions every week – some indoors, some outside.

“All our sessions are for women and men.

We’ve been asked by the Worcestershire Football Association to create a ladies’ only walking football session as part of a nationwide drive to attract more women to sport.”

Sessions cater for all abilities, from beginners to former players, with a wide range of physical and psychological challenges. All sports are Covid compliant.

Bromsgrove Walking Sports Centre has recently been awarded a grant from the National Lottery‘s Local Connections fund for its new project Walking Sporty Friends.

Alan said: “We’re so pleased that we will be able to help isolated and lonely people in our communities by offering them the opportunity to try playing or volunteering at our centre where they can make friends, have fun and get fitter too. We’ve been brilliantly supported through the process by Age UK’s Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest team.

“We’ve had a tremendous reaction already from organisations who want to work with us on the project and we are keen to hear from anyone if you’d like to join us and if you’d like to know more. As with all new projects, the challenge is letting people know what we are doing and so help in this area will be invaluable.”

The project launches at Bromsgrove Cricket, Hockey and Tennis Club in St Godwald’s Road on Friday, November 12th from 9.30am to 12pm with an Open Morning for interested organisations and isolated and lonely people.

For more information, contact Alan Gormley on 07731 369942 or alan@sport-edge.co.uk There is also a Facebook page at www.facebook. com/bromsgrovewalkingsportscentre/

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Cricket’s grassroots stars celebrated at annual awards event G

rassroots volunteers of all ages were honoured at an awards ceremony celebrating those who have kept the game alive in the county over the past 18 months.

Staged at New Road, home of Worcestershire County Cricket Club, the Grassroots Cricket Awards also reflected on Worcestershire Cricket’s support for local clubs and the opportunities it provides for people to enjoy the sport, whether as a player, coach, umpire, scorer, groundsman or administrator.

Twenty awards were presented at the event on September 22 including eight England and Wales Cricket Board and three England and Wales Cricket Board Coaching Association (ECBCA) prizes and nine awards given out by Worcestershire Cricket.

Among the guests was ECB chairman Ian Watmore, who told attendees: “Cricket has been a massive part of the nation’s revival with the recreational game rising to the fore.”

Kevin Sharp, head of coach and player development at Worcestershire CCC, spoke about his coaching journey and guests were also able to enjoy the county championship match against Leicestershire.

Trophy winners at the event, sponsored by Touch Developments Ltd, were:

• ECBCA Coach of the Year – Liam Kelleher (Worcester CC)

• Super 1s Hub of the Year – Oldwinsford and Stourbridge Social CC

• ECBCA Outstanding Achievement – Mikesh Jivan-Patel (Stourbridge CC)

• Wicketz Volunteer of the Year – Jake Phillips

Worcestershire Cricket chairman Kevin Drew said: “The executive team led by our head of participation and growth Craig Oakley have done a remarkable job in working with all clubs, schools and communities to ensure the clubs have not only survived the pandemic but thrived and grown. The only way that could be achieved is through the dedicated army of volunteers which our award winners represent.”

• Women’s Soft Ball Team of the Year - Cookhill CC • All Stars Centre of the Year – Badsey CC • Dynamos Cricket Centre of the Year – Overbury CC • Community Partner of the Year – Malvern Active Communities • School of the Year – Netherton Primary School • North Worcestershire Tigger Award – Kevin Drew • Cricket Innovator – Andy Alexander (Astwood Bank CC) • Inspired to Play – Hannah Murray (Five Ways Old Edwardians CC) • Unsung Hero – Bill Andrews (Halesowen CC) • Growing the Game – Lisa Smiley (Bromsgrove CC) • Connecting Communities – Dennis Lewis (Netherton CC) • Game Changer – Jacey Foster (Droitwich Spa CC) • Rising Star – Owen Birchley (Martley CC) • Lifetime Achiever and Bill Jones Memorial Volunteer of the Year - Andrew Harrison (Offenham CC) • ECBCA Young Coach of the Year – Jack Dudley (Stourbridge CC)

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by Chris Green

FA Cup agony for Bromsgrove Sporting B

FA Cup agony for Sporting

romsgrove Sporting’s FA Cup run came to Sporting's a grinding mid-October Bromsgrove FA Cup runhalt came toin a grinding halt in mid-Octoberagainst against National League leaders, Town.

National League leaders, Grimsby Town.

Sporting lost 5-0 in front of 3,216 supporters, many of whom had travelled down from Lincolnshire on the

Manager Kelly hasat had to carefully Sporting lost 5-0 in front of 3,216 supporters, many lunchtime of kick-off.

There wasBrendan a fabulous atmosphere the Victoria Ground on abalance warm autumn day but th no cup upset as visitors were winnersseveral in a gamesuspensions shown live on theand BBC Red Button. histhesquad thatworthy has seen injuries whom had travelled down from Lincolnshire on the day for a lunchtime kick-off. There was a fabulous atmosphere notably Kieran broke his legTown playing League form has been patchy with aDunbar good homewho win against Hednesford but defeats to Royston Tow Banbury United and Lowestoft Town.Garden However, there still three more cup competitions to play includin against Welwyn City.areDunbar is now recovering at the Victoria Ground on a warm autumn day but there home tie against Stourbridge in the Southern League Cup after the Rouslers defeated Hednesford Town 4-0 was no cup upset as the visitors were worthy winnersthe infirst a round.but is likely to be out for several weeks. game shown live on the BBC Red Button.

Manager Brendan Kelly has hadincomplete to carefully balance his squadowing that hasto seenlockdowns, several suspensions and injurie After two seasons

whohas brokepractically his leg playing returned against Welwyn City. at Dunbar now recovering but is likel League form has been patchy with a good home Kieran Dunbarlife toGarden normal theisVictoria out for several weeks.

Ground and with the bounce of the FA Cup, the club win against Hednesford Town but defeats to Royston After two incomplete seasons owing to lockdowns, life has practically returned to normal at the Victoria Gr Town, Banbury United and Lowestoft Town. However, areof hoping particularly with with the bounce the FA Cup,for the improved club are hopingattendances for improved attendances particularly witha a number o comingof up.attractive matches coming up. there are still three more cup competitions to play attractive matches number the end of 2021up are: to the end of 2021 are: including a juicy home tie against Stourbridge in theFixtures up toFixtures Southern League Cup after the Rouslers defeated Day Date K/O V Opponents Competition Sat 30-Oct 3:00 PM H Ilkeston FA Trophy Hednesford Town 4-0 away in the first round.

Tue Sat Tue Sat Mon Sat Tue Sat Tue Sat Sat Sat Mon Sat

2-Nov 6-Nov 9-Nov 13-Nov 15-Nov 20-Nov 23-Nov 27-Nov 30-Nov 4-Dec 11-Dec 18-Dec 27-Dec 1-Jan

7:45 PM 3:00 PM 7:45 PM 3:00 PM 7:45 PM 3:00 PM 7:45 PM

H A H A A H A

7:45 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM 3:00 PM

H A H A H A

Stourbridge Nuneaton Borough Tamworth Biggleswade Town Redditch United Barwell St Ives Town (Cambs) No match scheduled Coalville Town Royston Town St Ives Town (Cambs) Hednesford Town Stourbridge Stratford Town

League Cup Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League Southern League

At the time At of writing, the Bromsgrove Sporting team sit on top of their league having won five, dra the time of writing, theLadies' Bromsgrove Sporting Ladies’ and lost none so far this season. The veterans’ team are also top of their league having won four and lost o team sit on top of their league having won five, drawn ladies’ team are still in need of an experienced goalkeeper if there are any out there.

one and lost none so far this season. The veterans’ team

The club's website has much more information about Bromsgrove Sporting. Visit www.bromsgrovesporting are the also of their league having won four and lost otherwise email clubtop at hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

by Phil Baker Photos by Chris Jepson

one. The ladies’ team are still in need of an experienced goalkeeper if there are any out there.

The club’s website has much more information about Bromsgrove Sporting.

Visit www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk otherwise email the club at hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

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