Completely Bromsgrove December/January issue 36

Issue 36

December 21 January 22

Completely

Bromsgrove

Turn the page to see ou

r advert....

CATERING & RETAIL BUTCHERS Tel: 01527 435669

2 Completely Bromsgrove

CATERING & RETAIL BUTCHERS

DECEMBER MEAT BOX

ONLY £20 AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION & FREE DELIVERY* 2 TURKEY BREAST ESCALOPES Shop open 2 CHICKEN FILLETS as normal 2 x 6oz BRITISH BEEF up until 3pm SIRLOIN STEAKS Xmas Eve 6 HOMEMADE PORK SAUSAGES 500g BRITSH BEEF LEAN MINCE Wishing our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Rachel & the team at The Butcheress - We reopen Wednesday 29th Dec *only available until Wednesday 15th Dec. as we are sold out for Christmas

Please download our NEW APP

FREE Home delivery available 6 days a week Visit our shop at 9 Ryefields Rd, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4NA

Award winning sausages, bacon & burgers

www.thebutcheressltd.com

Tel: 01527 435669 Completely Bromsgrove

3

Welcome to the joint December 2021/January 2022 issue of Completely Bromsgrove So here we are, close to the end of 2021.

Yet again what a year it has been.

We were locked down for a third time earlier in the year and with energy and fuel prices soaring to an all-time high, it might seem like it’s all been doom and gloom.

Well, not in the world of Completely Bromsgrove. This issue brings plenty of cheer to your doorstep with many wonderful Christmas festivities taking place in and around the town.

Whether you’re wrapping up warm for some carol singing, taking part in the Santa Fun Run in aid of Primrose Hospice or laughing at the corny jokes at a family panto, fingers crossed we can all enjoy a memorable Christmas.

On the theme of seasonal shopping, I have a request for Completely Bromsgrove readers.

18

Contents 6 10 14 18 22 23 24 30

Best wishes,

Michele Ford

33 42 52

Our MP’s message Fiona Partridge - Author Bird Box Wins Prize Gardening Treecycle for Charity B’grove Flower Club 10 Years of Flood Help Recipe

31 32 33 36 38 40 42 43 44

Completely

Morrisons Giving Tree Health & Wellbeing The Feeding Trust New Businesses Worcs Wildlife Trust BARRUP Trains Court Leet History MP Meets Police Chief

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

4 Completely Bromsgrove

Before hitting the internet or dashing off to our nearby cities or large shopping centres, please consider shopping local this Christmas. Not only are you doing your bit to support our local independent retailers, but you are also helping the environment. I hope you will agree it makes sense for so many reasons.

I would like to give a big shout out to all our contributors, advertisers and loyal readers for their continued support during 2021. Without you, the team at Completely Bromsgrove wouldn’t be able to bring to you all the features and news items that I know you enjoy reading.

Finally, I wish you all a restful Christmas and a healthy 2022.

Stay safe until our next issue.

45 46 48 49 50 52 53 54 55

Lickey End Road Plan Hanbury Hall Santa Safari Primrose Hospice Peter Pan in Panto The FeckenOdeon Jazz Around Town Curlew Espresso 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.

Trusted to care Award winning care homes Our dementia specialists take a gentle yet proactive approach to care, supporting each resident to be as independent as possible. We champion innovation through our partnership with the Association for Dementia Studies at the University of Worcester.

We’re here to help you and your family at every step of the journey.

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one, call 01527 907828 or email paul.chambers@careuk.com

Rated

9.9

out of 10 on carehome.co.uk

Chandler Court care home Bromsgrove B61 8DT careuk.com/chandler-court Completely Bromsgrove

5

A message from our MP

S

ince the last time I wrote for Completely Bromsgrove, the Chancellor of the Exchequer has delivered his autumn budget and set out how the Government will deliver a stronger economy for the British people.

Locally, I am delighted that Bromsgrove town centre is set to receive a huge £14.5 million commitment for regeneration and economic development.

The funding will be directed towards regeneration projects, including the former Market Hall site. The investment will also provide a boost to the local economy and employment.

I was re-elected on a promise to level up and improve oppor tunities for people in Bromsgrove district. This investment - a product of teamwork with my Conservative colleagues at the district council shows our power to deliver on the priorities of local residents.

It was great to be in the town centre recently after the announcement, to hold a street surgery and meet with constituents. I also met with the new Chief Constable of West Mercia Police, Pippa Mills, at Bromsgrove Police Station to discuss local issues and key priorities for the force. We had a productive discussion about the priorities for the local area, including on how we can maximise the uplift in the number of police officers.

Making sure Bromsgrove district is a safe and secure place to live, work and raise a family is a priority and I

6 Completely Bromsgrove

know the Chief Constable shares my commitment to this.

I also had the oppor tunity to meet with pupils at Beaconside Primary and Nursery School in Rubery to mark UK Parliament Week. The students asked me about representing Bromsgrove and how Parliament works. I was very impressed by the class, teachers, and the excellent work of the entire school.

Finally, as this will be the final issue of the magazine in 2021, I just wanted to wish all readers a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.

This has been a challenging time, but the community spirit shown in Bromsgrove District and across the country has been fantastic. It is a privilege to serve as your Member of Parliament and I look forward to suppor ting my constituents over the festive period and in the New Year. email: sajid.javid.mp@parliament.uk

On-site Jewellery Repairs, Remodelling & Restoration

Watch & Clock Repair, Service & Restoration

Bespoke Handcrafted Jewellery Design

Valuations for Insurance & Probate

Extensive Range of New & Vintage Jewellery

Pre-owned Jewellery & Old Gold Purchased at Competitive Prices

EST. 1991

Church Street, Bromsgrove • T: 01527 831144 Kidderminster • T: 01562 824884 • Stourbridge • T: 01384 444028 Facebook: @KBassamJeweller • Instagram: kbassamjewellers

www.jewla.co.uk

Completely Bromsgrove

7

8 Completely Bromsgrove

Independent education for boys and girls aged 2-18

Pupils grow, thrive and flourish at King’s� 2022 New Year Open Mornings

Senior School Saturday 15th January King’s St Alban’s Saturday 22nd January King’s Hawford Saturday 12th February

Register your visit: ksw.org.uk/shapedbykings #ShapedByKings

Completely Bromsgrove

9

Fiona’s debut novel is impossible to put down A

Bromsgrove author is celebrating the success of her debut novel, having sold out of her initial print-run allocation in just three weeks!

Fiona Par tridge launched ‘The Colour of Marriage’ on October 18. Predominantly set in Bromsgrove, the book offers readers plenty of local connections weaved into the pages of a gripping story of love, family life, loss, regret and redemption.

The protagonist, Rob Lawson, studied marketing at Worcester University before marrying his teenage sweethear t, Annie, who he took on a first date to Sanders Park. As the story of their life together unfolds, Fiona paints a realistic picture of married life when the impact of young children saps the energy and romance from a once strong relationship.

Unexpected twists keep the reader fully engaged and have resulted in many comments from those who have immersed themselves in the 285 pages. Alison Wakeman said: “Chapter 15 – was not expecting that!” An Amazon review read: “You just don’t know what’s going to happen next. Excellently written and very well thought out.”

Fiona first had the idea for her book fifteen years

ago but her family and award-winning holistic therapy business kept her busy. She never seemed to have time to put pen to paper - until the 2020 pandemic lockdown, which finally provided the perfect opportunity for her to pull all her thoughts together and start the writing process. Between subsequent lockdowns she took inspiration from the setting at Upton Warren, sitting on the balcony of The Boat Shack Café overlooking the lake.

The Boat Shack features in her novel and Fiona hopes it will be the location for a book signing event in spring 2022, when hopefully all pandemic restrictions will be over.

The hugely positive response Fiona has received from readers has left her bursting with pride, and reinforced her belief that she has written a cracking story. However, she was taken by surprise with the flurry of regional media exposure she received following the book’s release in October.

“Being recognised in the Co-Op in Charford has to be the height of fame!” said Fiona, with a smile. “The lady said ‘I must go home and tell my husband I’ve met a famous author’.”

Fiona may not be ‘famous’ yet, but with her second novel due to be released in early 2022, she is clearly establishing herself as an up and coming local author who we should keep a close eye on.

‘The Colour of Marriage’ can be purchased direct from Fiona at www.fionapartridge.co.uk. It is also sold at Amazon, WH Smith, Waterstones, SilverWood Books and independent booksellers. It costs £10.99 and £4.50 for the ebook.

Aurhor Fiona Partridge at The Boat Shack, Upton Warren

10 Completely Bromsgrove

LTD

at The Jinney Ring Centre MOT TESTING STATION

MOT TESTING STATION

CHARLES KENWARD MOTORS LTD

F 20% OF

MOT testing including Class 7 & Class 5 Light (minibuses) Private, commercial & fleet servicing Vehicle recovery service Latest diagnostic equipment

We have a wide range of Christmas themed gifts & decorations or maybe a glassblowing experience is the ideal gift for that “hard-tobuy-for” friend or family member?

CALL

01527 875 432 01527 837 070 14 Sherwood Road, Aston Fields Industrial Estate, Bromsgrove B60 3DR

FREE icicle tree decoration Call 01527 821034

Open 7 days 10am-5pm

with all purchases throughout December

www.topglass.biz

Completely Bromsgrove

11

12 Completely Bromsgrove

Completely Bromsgrove

13

Bromsgrove District Portfolio Holders at The Bird Box (Back row L-R: Cllr Adam Kent, Cllr Phil Thomas, Cllr Michael Thompson, Cllr Karen May. Front row L-R: Cllr Geoff Denaro, Cllr Margaret Sherrey, Cllr Shirley Webb.)

The Bird Box flies high at regional awards T

he Bird Box in Bromsgrove soared above its rivals to scoop the regeneration project of the year prize at the prestigious 2021 Insider West Midlands Property awards held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole.

Designed by ONE Creative environments (ONE), on behalf of North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration and Bromsgrove District Council, the Bird Box was launched in August 2020 and has transformed the unused site on St John’s Street into a temporary, mixed-use community destination.

Named after a feature carved into many of the existing Bromsgrove shopfronts, the Bird Box was designed to provide a flexible space for pop-up and mobile businesses giving opportunities and support to local start-ups and entrepreneurs.

It features a range of community facilities including a stage, creative seating and open areas. During the pandemic it is providing outdoor social distancing space for small retail outlets.

The project has strong environmental credentials and almost everything on site has been re-used or recycled.

The use of feature trees in planters scatter light through the space offering flexibility, shade and extends the use of the site during the evening with provision for public arts projects and bold graphics which create a fun and vibrant atmosphere.

Bromsgrove District Council has maximised this opportunity with an exciting programme of open air and socially distanced events. Full details are available on the Bird Box Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ BirdBoxBromsgrove ONE, which has a Worcester HQ and offices in Birmingham and London, worked closely with all parties to deliver the design alongside contractors Kelbec Civils and Whiting Landscape.

14 Completely Bromsgrove

ONE Creative environments (ONE) collecting the award: (from left Ruth Sears – Associate Landscape Architect, Mark Martin – Director, James Lawrence – Director and Abz Randera – Architect)

Bromsgrove District Council leader Karen May said: “This award is fantastic news for Bromsgrove and well deserved by all those involved in creating this amazing space which has already been enjoyed by so many.

“To receive accolades and praise from external audiences validates the success of the Bird Box project and demonstrates what partnership working can achieve.

“Coupled with the recent news that the town has been awarded £14.5 million for regeneration I am proud to say that the council is well placed to deliver on its promises, and beyond, to create an even better Bromsgrove for our residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

Mark Martin, director at ONE, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Bird Box has won this prestigious award and is being recognised by others. It has been wonderful to see local businesses and all of the community benefitting from this project’s vibrant outdoor space.”

The design for the Bird Box has enjoyed further award success recently. It was highly commended in the Constructing Excellence Midlands 2021 awards for conservation and regeneration and was shortlisted in the activation category at the Festival of Place Pineapple 2021 awards.

FUN 4 EVERYONE

CHRISTMAS

CLAY SHOOTS 21 | 22 | 23 DECEMBER

10AM | 90 MINS

OAKLANDS CENTRE HANBURY £39.95 PP INCLUDES 30 TARGETS

OPERATION SANTA WARS 21|22|23 DECEMBER

LOCATION: FOREST IN HANBURY

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!

WEAPON: LASER TAGGER 100M RANGE!

Our philosophy is simple:

17:00 & 19:00 90 MINS

WIN

£50

LASER TAG VOUCHER * T&CS APPLY

DEPLOYMENT:

TARGET: SANTA CLAUS

RECRUITMENT: GROUPS UP TO 4 PLAYERS AGE 6 YEARS+

“Constantly in the pursuit of excellence” Master Butcher

Duncombes This advert should be upside down!

UNIFORM: FESTIVE COSTUME OR SANTA HAT PRIZE FOR THE BEST COSTUME

BOOK NOW:

01527 575141

mark@shoo ng4fun.co.uk www.shoo ng4fun.co.uk

Completely Bromsgrove

15

Energy Efficient uPVC and Aluminium Windows and doors

Stunning SkyPod Orangeries

Beautiful Conservatories and Fantastic Replacement Warm Roofs

NEW Showroom now OPEN at Willowbrook Garden Centre

High Security Doors

Single Storey Extentions info@designhausltd.co.uk

Style

NOW OPEN! IN STORE AND ONLINE

WG AI RL DL EO NW BC ERNOT OR KE

Stourbridge Road , Catshill, Bromsgrove B61 0BL www.willowbrookgc.co.uk Open 9.00-5.30 Monday-Saturday, 10-5 Sunday

Don’t forget to follow us

GARDENING

I

Caring for your real Christmas tree

“ t’s Christmas…” Noddy screams from the wireless, announcing the most wonderful time of the year; when merry gentlemen are rested and the season is jolly. What’s not to love about the smell of a real Christmas tree?

The annual trip to pick out a live spruce is a classic holiday tradition and a memory to be treasured.

With a little TLC, your tree will look merry and bright all season long.

When choosing your tree, thought needs to be given to the colour, shape and feel. One thing to remember is that if the tree looks very full without ornaments, it may be difficult to decorate. Where you place your tree determines its lifespan.

Try to avoid placing near radiators, fireplaces, even televisions or sun-drenched windows.Your tree won’t thank you for being placed in a heavy traffic area either. Bear in mind that a tree stand will add a few extra inches of height, as will a star or angel on top.

To keep your Christmas tree looking perfect, keep it watered but not soggy.You may need to water two or even three times in the first few days after purchase.

When the celebrations are over and the decorations are back in the loft here are four ways to reuse or dispose of your Christmas tree: • Replant your potted Christmas tree in a garden to give it a new lease of life. You could also add bird feeders to provide shelter for wildlife.

• Drop your tree off at a recycling centre where it can be turned into chippings for paths or turned into soil.

• Check with your local council to see if there’s a special collection service.

• Look for an organisation or charity that offers a ‘treecyling’ service where it could be used to build effective flood barriers in communities around the UK.

Jobs to keep you busy in December and January Prune open-grown apples and pears (but not those trained against walls) Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoid bleeding Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops Trees and shrubs can still be planted whilst the ground is still warm Reduce watering of houseplants

Plants can be protected from cold, wet weather by wrapping with horticultural fleece.

Pay particular attention to potted plants as these are the most vulnerable to frost. Keep containers in dry, sheltered areas, grouped together for mutual protection. Prevent roots freezing in containers by wrapping with bubble polythene or straw.

Help yourself to another mince pie and with your adorned tree as your centrepiece enjoy spending time with those you love. Most of all have a very Happy Christmas

By Suzi M, Plotter and garden lover from Roundhill Allotments

18 Completely Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove Roofing Bromsgrove Enterprise Park, Isiodore Road, Bromsgrove, B60 3ET

A friendly, professional service guaranteed!

Complete New Roofs Pitched and Flat Roofs Leaking Guttering Chimney Work UPVC Fascias, Soffits & Guttering Gutter Cleaning

Resealing Gutter Joints Dry Fix Verge Caps Dry Fix Ridge Tiles Approved Fibre Glass Flat Roof Installer EPS-Eave Protection System

Gutters

Dry Verge Caps

Fascias

Box End

Soffits

Downpours

Proud members of

WE ARE A LOCAL, QUALITY AND AFFORDABLE ROOFING SERVICE, CURRENTLY WORKING IN YOUR AREA, SO IF YOU NEED A FREE QUOTATION OR ADVICE ON ANY OF THE SERVICES WE PROVIDE...

PLEASE CALL US NOW ON 01527 309005 www.bromsgrove-roofing.co.uk

Come and visit our NEW showroom in Studley

Call Andy : 01527 962972 or 07795 958245

email: info@weatherguardservices.co.uk

www.weatherguardservices.co.uk

Bathrooms & Plumbing

All plumbing work undertaken Experts in bathrooms & wetrooms No job too small!

Bromsgrove - call 01527 509090

1 Haydon House, Alcester Road, Studley B80 7AN

07592 303104 or 07910 289565 www.acsinteriordoors.co.uk

Boilers, Fires & Cookers

Experts in natural gas, oil and LPG/ installations, repairs and servicing

Bromsgrove - call 01527 509090 Completely Bromsgrove

21

‘Treecycle’ your Christmas tree...

...and raise vital funds for local childhood cancer charity

T

he Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust are holding their second ‘treecycling’ campaign covering Worcestershire in January 2022.

We all love a real tree until the time comes to dispose of it after Christmas.To save you having pine needles in the back of your car, the trust can pick it up for you.

The areas that the charity will be covering are: B60, B61, B96, B97, Barnt Green, Alvechurch, Feckenham, Inkberrow, WR1, WR3, WR4, WR5, WR7, WR9, WR10 and the villages local to the charity including Crowle, Upton Snodsbury, Broughton Hackett, White Ladies Aston and Drakes Broughton.

All you need to do is register for a collection and the GKCCT team will pick up your tree on January 5th, 6th and 7th. The collection date will be confirmed nearer the time once you have registered.

There is a minimum donation of £5 for us to collect your Christmas tree, which will enable the charity to cover the basic costs of the tree collection. If you wish to leave a donation to the trust in addition to the £5 collection charge, this would be hugely appreciated.

A £10 donation could cover the printing and distribution of 350 signs and symptoms awareness cards which could enable a child to be diagnosed with cancer at an earlier stage. A £15 donation could pay for the production and

22 Completely Bromsgrove

dispersion of 15 information booklets that make things a little less scary for children receiving treatment for cancer.

The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust receives no statutory funding and is reliant on fundraisers and donors to help them continue their vital work.

The deadline to register your Christmas tree is Monday, January 3rd 2022 at midday. If your tree is over 8ft tall and you wish to book a collection, please call 01905 885777 or e-mail: contact@gkcct.org The GKCCT would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has signed up so far to support this campaign.The trust still needs more volunteers to so if you can spare some hours or have a vehicle or van that can be used please call the GKCCT team on 01905 885777.

Tips on creating festive floral designs

I

t’s the time of year to start thinking about decorating and dressing your home with fresh flowers and foliage to create a magical Christmas.

At the most recent meeting, Bromsgrove Flower Club members and visitors enjoyed watching Shirley Henderson create beautiful floral designs entitled ‘Tis the Season.

Come and join us on December 9 and enjoy a mince pie accompanied by mulled wine or a soft drink.

The AGM will take place followed by a well-known member of the club demonstrating a few ideas for Christmas.

These arrangements will be raffled along with a cake and some beautiful sugarcraft cake toppers, made by one of our talented committee members.

The club meets at 2pm at All Saints Church Hall in Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove.

For more information visit www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk

Arrangement by Debbie Clarke

Arrangement by Angela Harvey

Arrangement by Dell Guest

Thinking of buying a new aquarium?

We have everything you need Aquarium and Pond Centre

GIFT

VOUCHERS AVAILBLE

GREAT PRICES GREAT PRODUCTS KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF

INSIGHT LED 64L READY TO GO TROPICAL AQUARIUM NORMAL PRICE £247.99

OUR PRICE £129.95

YOUR LOCAL LEADING AQUATIC CENTRE

FANTASTIC RANGE AVAILABLE

SUPPLIERS OF TOP QUALITY AQUARIUMS, FISH & POND PRODUCTS 20 THE STRAND, BROMSGROVE B61 8AB TEL: 01527 879207 www.midlandwaterlife.com Completely Bromsgrove

23

A decade of holding back the floods N

orth Worcestershire Water Management turned 10 this November! The team formed in 2011 as a shared service for Bromsgrove District, Redditch Borough and Wyre Forest District Councils. The vision of the team is to reduce flood risk whilst enhancing the water environment and encouraging sustainable water management.

The team cover a variety of issues, including consenting works on ordinary watercourses, commenting upon planning applications, carrying out inspections of watercourses to ensure flow is maintained, and investigating reports of flooding – often also designing flood alleviation schemes which also provide improved amenity and biodiversity potential for an area. The team works according to catchment areas rather than District/Borough boundaries.

Richard is the manager of the team, and he has a background in environmental health and housing. Covering the Stour catchment in the North West part of Bromsgrove District (Hagley, Clent and Romsley) is Kirsten. Kirsten has worked in the team for 12 years, and previously worked at a Dutch waterboard after studying Physical Geography and Fluvial Hydrology. Fiona covers the Salwarpe, Rea & Cole catchments from Rubery down to Stoke Prior, plus the Hollywood and Wythall area.

Fiona has worked in the team for 12 years and previously studied Physical Geography and River & Coastal Engineering. The remainder of the District (from Beoley up to Hopwood) falls within the Arrow catchment – this is covered by Tom, who has been in the team for 7 years and Jodie who has been in post for a year and a half. Tom has previously studied Geography & Environmental Management, Water & Environmental Engineering and Flood & Coastal Engineering and has spent some time working with the Environment Agency, and Jodie previously studied Geography and Sustainable Water Management and previously worked as

an Enforcement Officer for Wyre Forest District Council. The team is supported by Lindsey, who has worked in the team for 8 years, after completing a level 3 Busines & Administration apprenticeship, and who will often be the first point of contact for anyone emailing or calling the team with a general query.

24 Completely Bromsgrove

To find out a bit more about the members of the NWWM team, including their favourite watercourses and aspects of their roles, visit www.facebook.com/northworcsflooding To report flooding or any concerns with a local watercourse, you can call 01562 732 191 or email enquiries@nwwm.org.uk.

The Team at We Spray Anything would like to wish all our customers a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Unit 23 Silver Birches Business Park, Aston Road, Bromsgrove B60 3EU. Tel: 01527 558166 / 01527 877129 Email: info@wesprayanything.com Web: www.wesprayanything.com

Completely Bromsgrove

25

NOW ON

If you are looking for the latest design for your kitchen, bathroom or en-suite. Traditional, modern or contemporary for your lounge, hallway or conservatory, and now even stylish outdoor porcelain tiles, Tile Choice can meet your every requirement at exceptional prices.

KIDDERMINSTER Unit 6 Easter Park Worcester Road Kidderminster DY11 7AR 01562 825720

WORCESTER Unit 10 Worcester Trade Park Sherriff Street WR4 9AB 01905 723004

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

26 Completely Bromsgrove

GREAT DEALS ON WALL & FLOOR TILES

BROMSGROVE Unit 8a Aston Fields Ind. Est. Sherwood Road B60 3DR 01527 882333

for your nearest store - www.tilechoice.co.uk

FH G

RANK LTD EDGES ROUNDCARE

ANY SE RVIC

10% O FF 28th FE BRUAR

E UNTI L

Y 22

SALES/SERVICE/REPAIR OF ALL LEADING MAKES OF MOWER Garden Shredders Hedge Cutters Blowers Strimmers Garden Vacuums

Sharpening of Shears & Chainsaw Chains

COLLECTION & DELIVERY CAN BE ARRANGED WE ARE AGENTS

TEL: 01527 831047 ‘Excellent after sales care for over 130 years’

Unit 1, Hewell Road, Enfield, Redditch B97 6BW FULL ON-SITE PARKING

Completely Bromsgrove

27

Mithing something?

Let Acorn Dental replace those missing teeth.

What are Dental Implants?

What are the benefits?

A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed within the jaw bone (below the gum). Once the implant has fused with the bone, the implant is used to support a crown, denture or a bridge (above the gum). Dental implants are considered to be the gold standard treatment for the replacement of missing teeth.

(

Replace missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth and can provide support for a crown, denture or bridge.

(

Implants will allow you to eat and speak with confidence.

(

Provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth.

(

Help preserve the condition of healthy adjacent teeth by eliminating the use of clasps and the need to grind down adjacent teeth for support.

Dental implants are completely safe and they look, feel and act like your own natural teeth so you can smile and eat with complete confidence. Implants will also help prevent premature facial ageing caused by the bone loss associated with missing teeth.

(

(

Stimulate bone and gums, which ensure an attractive and aesthetic result over time.

What is the process?

Consultation – We take the time to listen and perform a comprehensive examination.

Planning – The information is used to create a plan that is unique to you.

Placement – The implants are carefully and precisely placed into your jaw.

Healing Period – While healing the bone will fuse to the implants over 8-12 weeks.

Dental implants are a proven and successful solution.

Dr Manoj Parmar BDS MJDF MFDS | MSc (Implants) | PGCert (MedEd) PGCert (Rest)

Dr Dipesh Parmar BDS MJDF | MSc (Orthodontics) UK Best Aesthetic Dentist 2018 | Best Young Dentist 2017 International Educator in Cosmetic Dentistry

Smile Design – Your prosthetic teeth are made to the highest quality using world class dental laboratories.

Complete Smile – We fit the teeth onto your implants to give you a smile to be proud of.

Contact us today to learn more.

28 Completely Bromsgrove

Book a FREE implant consultation with Dr Manoj Parmar (usually £60) When it comes to advanced dental procedures it pays to employ the services of an award-winning surgeon. Meticulous care and attention-to-detail are the hallmarks of Manoj Parmars’ approach. We care about giving you the best results, which is why we consider every option available. Limited slots available. Please quote VILLAGE10. Only redeemable in 2021.

Dental Implants Before and After Case Studies Case Study 1 - Upper and Lower Fixed Teeth using All-on-4 Concept

Case Study 2 - Smile Upgrade with 3 Crowns and an Implant

Award Winning Dentistry at Acorn Dental Barnt Green

Case Study 3 - Smile Rehabilitation using Multiple Implants and Crowns

Case Study 4 - Smile Rehabilitation using Implant Bridges

“All the staff at Acorn Dental are so kind and considerate. I have been a patient there for many years and cannot speak more highly of such a professional company. I have had major, and I mean major, dentistry including extractions, fillings, implants and even cosmetic. Dipesh is a saint, he takes so much care with everything, as I know his brother Manoj does.

The surgery has a really comfortable feeling, which helps a nervous person to relax. No one enjoys going to the dentist, but needs must, and I would never go anywhere other than Acorn.”

Gerry Jinks (80 years young)

22A Hewell Road, Barnt Green Birmingham, B45 8NE Call: 0121 447 7300 Free parking for 3–4 vehicles.

Access is via a private drive at the side of Savoir Faire boutique.

www.acorndental.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

29

Christmas Chestnut & Mushroom Pie

RECIPE

Serves 6

Method:

1. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas Mark 6.

2. Melt the butter and oil in a frying pan and sauté the shallots until lightly browned. Add the mushrooms and cook for a further 4-5 minutes.

3. Add the chestnuts, herbs and the red wine and enough vegetable stock to cover. Bring to the boil and simmer for 20-30 minutes to reduce the liquid a little.

4. Stir in the mustard, soy sauce, parsley and black pepper to taste. Cook for a further 5 minutes.

5. Spoon half the mixture into a pie dish. Top with the cranberries and spoon over the remaining chestnut and mushroom mix.

6. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and place on top of filling. Brush with the beaten egg.

Make three small slits and bake for about 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

Ingredients:

www.lovebritishfood.co.uk

30 Completely Bromsgrove

Saturated fat per serving: 8.1g 25g butter 1 tbsp olive oil 8 small shallots, peeled 200g small chestnut mushrooms, wiped 200g button mushrooms, wiped 200g cooked chestnuts 2 bay leaves 1 sprig fresh thyme 100ml red wine Approx 100ml vegetable stock

2 tsp Dijon mustard 2-3tbsp Kikkoman Soy Sauce fresh parsley, finely chopped freshly ground black pepper 150g fresh cranberries, thawed if frozen 225g puff pastry, thawed if frozen 1 egg, beaten You will need a 23cm deep pie dish.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes Cals per serving: 349 Total per serving: 21.5g

Spread the love this Christmas with store’s giving tree M

orrisons’ store in Aston Fields, Bromsgrove, is displaying a new cardboard Christmas tree with the aim of encouraging shoppers to help people in need during the festive season.

The tree is not only recyclable but is being used to engage customers in donating to Catshill Foodbank by taking special tokens from the tree and scanning them through the till to add a donation to their bill.

Each token has a barcode on the back for the checkout colleague to scan which will add £1, £2 or £5 to the total.

In the New Year, the total amount donated in store will be converted into a Morrisons gift card for Catshill Foodbank to redeem in store.

Morrisons’ Bromsgrove community champion Jim Weaver thanked customers and colleagues for their generous

support at a time of year which can be difficult for many families.

Earlier this year, Completely Bromsgrove teamed up with Morrisons to reward eight youngsters who have supported the community during the pandemic as part of its Little Sunshines initiative.

We were happy to help after Jim Weaver and his colleague John Shakles, who head up Morrisons Bromsgrove Community, issued a Facebook appeal.

Eight recipients were named as Little Sunshines and received a goodie bag containing items including a gift card, coloured pencils and drawing pad, sweets, chocolate and a named certificate.

Orders still being taken for Christma� Turkeys, turkey crowns, ribs of beef, lamb legs and our festive hampers Planning a party?

Outside catering including hot bowls and buffets lunches are available from Lil’s Baps.

Get in touch for a quote or menu enquiries.

The only all female staffed butchers in the West Midlands!

53 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AJ

Tel: 01527 570241

www.facebook.com/ButchersBlockBromsgrove/?ref=py_c Completely Bromsgrove

31

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Change your gut, change your life B

efore starting on my article, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy 2022. With Christmas and New Year Celebrations we need to take care of our gut. All the rich food and drink, chocolates and sweets that we do not normally eat throughout the year will have an impact on our gut microbiome.

Science is emerging every day connecting issues with the gut to issues throughout the body and especially the mind. This is good news with knowledge and smart action, we can quite literally heal ourselves from the inside out.

The recipe for a healthy gut is simple. Avoid toxic foods and substances, add in some fermented foods as good Biome, good vitamins and Minerals and good Omega supplement, plus make managing stress a priority. It won’t happen overnight, but it will happen. Changing our gut just might be the first step to changing our lives.

Mental issues, and our gut bacteria might cause: • Depression or anxiety • Brain Fog • OCD A healthy gut plays an important role when it comes to helping our body produce and synthesize vitamins and minerals. When our gut bacteria are out of whack, our body has a harder time getting enough of the following essential vitamins and minerals: • Vitamin D – Extremely important in the winter months • Vitamin K • Vitamin B12 & B7 • Magnesium Antibiotics Antibiotics are one of the greatest innovations of modern medicine but using them incorrectly can create gut issues.

The food industry uses them indiscriminately on factoryfarmed animals. Some doctors even use them on viral infections (which is useless). Antibiotics wipe out bad bacteria, but they also wipe out many of the good bacteria in the gut that are essential for our health. Research suggests that good bacteria wiped out by antibiotics don’t replace themselves unless you intervene. Used correctly, antibiotics are one of the greatest innovations of modern medicine but using them incorrectly can create gut issues.

32 Completely Bromsgrove

Skin Conditions There’s been a lot of confusion about skin conditions over the years. Much of it comes from the common (but misguided) idea that the symptoms of a condition must appear in the same spot as the condition itself. For many skin conditions, the problem isn’t with the skin itself.

It’s with an unhealthy gut. If you have any of these skin conditions, it could be due to unbalanced gut bacteria: • Acne • Rosacea • Psoriasis • Eczema Autoimmune Disease Autoimmune diseases can be difficult to manage because the body is literally attacking itself. It can be even tougher to spot the source of the problem and address it. Research is emerging linking autoimmune diseases to unhealthy guts. Dealing with any of the following, may just be part of a gut issue.

• Hashimoto’s • Rheumatoid arthritis • Inflammatory bowel disease When the body is on fire, adding fuel to the fire would be the worst thing you could do! Unfortunately, many people just continue to eat and live in a way that kills good bacteria and encourages bad bacteria to grow. This breaks down the integrity of their gut lining.

Simple Steps to Balance your Gut. • Take a good Pre & Probiotic Supplement.

• Eat Fermented Foods • Manage your Stress • Take a good Vitamin and Mineral Supplement & Fish Supplement.

• Drink Redox Signalling Molecules

by Colette To order the best supplements go to www.need4change.myasealive.com

Garside

Our HomeZone online support for families T

he last quarter has been a busy time for the team at The Feeding Trust. Alongside running the feeding clinic out of our offices at the beautiful Waseley Hills Country Park, we’ve redesigned our service to offer a wider range of on-line therapy options and have continued our efforts to fundraise to support families to access face-to-face feeding therapy.

At The Feeding Trust we’ve worked hard over the last year to respond to the Covid crisis and cope with an increase in demand for our service.

We’re delighted to have launched our HomeZone programme, which enables families to access a range of specialist services online.

In August we organised a 50k challenge, where we asked participants to walk, run or cycle 50k over the month of August, and raised almost £2,000.

One family completed their 50k while in a quarantine hotel in New Zealand, our founder Natalie Morris completed 50k of training walks with her new puppy and another participant doubled the challenge and cycled 100k in one day. We also had runners, walkers and other cyclists.You can see the whole challenge documented on our social media pages. Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @ thefeedingtrust As a not-for-profit company, we use these funds to pay for assessments and treatment for children and young people with Paediatric Feeding Disorders, when support is not available via the NHS. On October 1 Paediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) was officially classified by the International Classification of Disease (ICD). For families who face PFD daily this was a huge milestone as this classification validates all the struggles they face around mealtimes.

PFD is defined as “impaired oral intake that is not age-appropriate, and is associated with medical, nutritional, feeding skill, and/or psychosocial dysfunction”, encompassing so many difficulties in feeding. For children with PFD, every bite of food can

be painful, scary, or traumatic, potentially impeding nutrition, development, growth and overall well-being.

Most importantly, we know how important this diagnosis will be for so many families, justifying their concerns and recognising healthcare professional’s efforts, including the work we do here at The Feeding Trust.

Feeding Matters (@feedingmatters on Instagram, or www.feedingmatters.org) do fantastic work advocating for PFD. Based in the USA, they have advocated for years to get the classification in the ICD. The next step is working to get the World Health Organisation (WHO) to recognise PFD as a feeding disorder.

For more information about the specialist services offered by The Feeding Trust including HomeZone, visit www.feedingtrust.org

Completely Bromsgrove

33

Community Exercise Sessions Transport One of our priorities at Bromsgrove District Council is to reach out and help vulnerable people, and whether this isolation is due to age or the recent restrictions that have changed all of our lives, we want you to know that we are always looking for ways to help the people that need it most.

With this in mind we have recently won some funding to pay for community transport to our community exercise sessions, the sessions themselves cost £3.50 but we are aware that this can be more than doubled when transport is required, plus there is always a bit of organising to do.

Working with the local transport providers BURT Bus and BluWave Transport means that anyone who attends a session can have their transport paid for by us.

A full list of our community exercise sessions can be found here www.bromsgrove.gov.uk then search ‘Community Exercise’ or you can call a member of the team on 01527 881289 and we can discuss your most suitable and nearest option for you.

COVID RECOVERY Working with local health providers we recently completed our first 6 week COVID RECOVERY programme. Aimed at people who are living with the long term affects of Covid-19, we designed a programme that focused on education and exercise.

• The results were very positive with an increase in functional measurements by 71% over the 6 week programme.

• 100% of the people that completed the course said that they were more confident to start moving more since taking part in the programme.

• 100% found the programme easy to follow.

A Bromsgrove resident said: “I have realised how unfit I have become from the illness, and its encouraged more movement”.

Another resident said: “The best thing was speaking to others who have suffered, and the exercise has helped.”

The New Year will bring our next COVID RECOVERY programme which is being held at St Andrew’s Church Hall in Charford on Tuesdays. To register for the programme, you can go to this webpage www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/covidrecovery to register your details. Your place will be confirmed within a few days.

Our newsletter is a great way to be kept up to date with all things Active and Creative across Bromsgrove, including new specialised health and general exercise sessions, and arts and events happening near to you! To sign up, scan the QR code here with your smartphone’s camera to be taken to our page or search for ‘Active Newsletter’ on www.bromsgrove.gov.uk

BROMSGROVE 01527 872318

STUDLEY 01527 852213

www.jamesgilesandsonsltd.co.uk

Funeral Plans

An Independent Family Owned Funeral Directors

THOMAS BROTHERS

A family owned Funeral Directors, we provide a friendly, dignified service paying special attention to detail.

01527 547777 REDDITCH

01527 831700

BROMSGROVE

01564 822001 WYTHALL

0121 445 3422 ALVECHURCH

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

35

NEW BUSINESSES

Creative Katy makes a splash with top (bath) bombing

O

ver the past year, Completely Bromsgrove has featured many budding entrepreneurs who have turned hobbies into thriving small businesses.

Among them is Katy Pearce, who owns Olive Tree Bath Bombs and Wax Melts.

Katy’s inspirational story began when she looked up how to make a bath bomb after using one herself.

Initially, she looked at online recipes and bought the basic ingredients offline. After setting up a makeshift workshop in the kitchen, she created and produced different designs and it soon became clear that this was a path she wanted to pursue alongside working at a local middle school.

“Following extensive research and deciding on a precise recipe, I obtained the correct safety reports and got up to speed on the legalities of making and selling cosmetic products,” said Katy.

“In the early days I started selling individual products via Facebook on a private sales group page, which grew rapidly with monthly market nights. As no one was going out, customers loved the events and enjoyed shopping locally. Receiving amazing reviews on how my products were making children happy and bath times more enjoyable helped to drive me forward.”

With the business growing, Katy realised she needed more space and with the help of family and friends, including her dad, she had a purpose-built cabin

36 Completely Bromsgrove

constructed at the bottom of the garden. This has allowed Katy to expand the business further and offer a full range of handmade cosmetic and home fragrance products including bath bombs, whipped soaps, body scrubs, soap sponges, bubble scoops, shower steamers, wax melts and room sprays.

All items hold a CPSR (Cosmetic Product Safety Report) to ensure the safety of the recipes and finished products and home fragrance items have the correct CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging). Ingredients are sourced from reputable industry suppliers and the products are cruelty free.

With restrictions eased, Katy uses a variety of online social media platforms to advertise and holds live making sessions through the week on TikTok, where people can watch the products being created.

Katy added: “I’ve learnt to dream big, work hard and aspire to be my best. It’s a hard slog and hasn’t been easy but as the saying goes “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life” and that’s certainly the case with me.”

The full range of products can be viewed at www.olivetreehq.co.uk

NEW BUSINESSES

Before

Before After

After

Fit and healthy family on a mission to make a positive difference

T

he events of the past 18 months have prompted many people to re-evaluate their lives and what is important to them, whether it is spending more time with loved ones or less money on items they don’t really need.

Gradi Enev is just one of them and his fledging career in nutrition and health coaching was inspired by someone who means the world to him – his young daughter.

When Completely Bromsgrove spoke to Gradi, he was in a park with the sounds of happy children echoing around him. But earlier this year he was worried that his days of running around might be numbered.

“At the moment, the work I do is mostly online based and I give advice that is easy to follow. The important thing is that people have a plan that suits their lifestyle and that they can stick to.

“We’ve all known people who have lost weight too quickly for a social occasion such as a wedding then have struggled to maintain a healthy weight afterwards.”

Gradi had problems with his lower back, which hadn’t been helped by the stress of losing his job, and at 4am one morning, he realised it was now or never.

Gradi has the perfect person to work alongside and bounce ideas off – his wife Radi Eneva, who is a personal trainer.

The devoted dad began to change everything he could about his lifestyle, including his diet and fitness regime. He felt so good about the positive differences he’d made that he decided to turn his new passion into a business helping other people in a similar position achieve the same thing.

To find out more about Gradi’s nutrition and health coaching business, visit his Facebook pages: www. facebook.com/FitHealthyFamily7/ and www.facebook.com/GRNUTR/

Realising that he required additional knowledge and expertise, Gradi started studying again and is in the process of completing the Royal Society for Public Health’s level four diploma in nutrition through Future Fit. “The business is still in its early days but I’m really enthusiastic about helping people like myself who have got into a rut and need to make changes so that they can get more out of life – and that includes enjoying food,” said Gradi, who is Bulgarian.

You can also download a free Fit and Healthy Family e-book full of useful tips at: https://mailchi. mp/4a35412c9f48/free-uk-e-book Radi can be found at: www.facebook.com/Fithealthy-mamma-113931523854440/ and www.instagram.com/healthymammauk/ She also has her own YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/ UCjVg8P19EQZHd4gX5gk4vIw

Completely Bromsgrove

37

Brambling male by: Pete Walkden

Chaffinch female by: Mark Hamblin

Brambling male by: Pete Walkden

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

38 Completely Bromsgrove

Peachy keen

Chaffinch male by: John Caswell

A

s you head for a winter walk or watch the birds in your garden, keep an eye out for a special visitor. Bramblings are regular winter visitors to Worcestershire but just how many arrive depends on how much food there is back home in Scandinavia and how much they need to escape the harsh winter there.

Bramblings are a relative of our more familiar chaffinch; if you see a ‘funny-looking’ chaffinch, it’s worth double-checking in case you’re looking at a brambling. They share the peachy-orange colouring of a male chaffinch as well as bars of white on their wings. Take a closer look and you’ll see that they have darker tones, mottling on their backs and a more distinct peachy upper breast and whiter tummy.

Whilst you may regularly spot chaffinches in your gardens, bramblings are only likely to turn up if they can’t find beechmast (beech seeds). This year seems to be a good beechmast year so if you know of beech trees in your local area, it’s worth staking them out to try and spot bramblings taking the seeds.

British chaffinches are much more sedentary but, like bramblings, their Scandinavian counterparts are migratory and move through Europe as cold weather arrives. Some arrive here in the UK so the birds you see in your garden may have flown a long way. Unlike our British birds who stay together in breeding pairs, migrating chaffinches split up – males winter further north than females and juveniles, often congregating in large flocks that have earned them the nickname ‘bachelor birds’.

If you’ve been seeing fewer chaffinches over summer, you’re not alone. Chaffinch numbers have dropped significantly, a 30% decrease between 2007 and 2018 alone. Research into the causes of this decline is ongoing but it’s possible that a disease, Trichomonosis,

that has decimated greenfinch populations is now doing the same to chaffinches. It’s why it’s so important to regularly clean your birdbaths and feeders – whilst birds have adapted to our gardens, communal feeding in this way can allow diseases to spread more easily. For information about the health of wildlife in your garden visit www.gardenwildlifehealth.org/ Giving our garden wildlife a helping hand at this time of year can really make a difference. If you’re able to provide food for the birds you’ll also have your very own soap opera taking place in your garden. There are many brands to choose from but it’s worth buying sustainably-produced food from suppliers like Vine House Farm www.vinehousefarm.co.uk who not only deliver to your door but also help wildlife on their UK farm. They also give 4% of sales to local Wildlife Trusts so wildlife in Worcestershire will benefit more widely too. Don’t forget that our website has lots of information and ideas to help you to help wildlife where you are www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ wildlife-gardening

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

www.bromsgroverail.org.uk

Levelling up fund has potential for rail service B romsgrove and Redditch Rail User Partnership (BARRUP) was delighted to read of the award to Bromsgrove District Council, via the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, of £14.5 million for improvements in the town centre, and congratulates those in the council and the North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration Organisation who have secured the funding.

If the money is invested responsibly and its use carefully managed, then in the next few years, hopefully the former Market Hall site, plus the current eyesore in Windsor Street that is the former Fire Station and its adjoining buildings, will have been regenerated and perhaps a “destination” store will have been attracted to the top end of the High Street, so that other shops and more market stalls will follow.

This would mean that the centre of Bromsgrove will have been revitalised and will be an attraction for day and short stay tourists, which would boost further the economy of the town.

Improved rail services to the station can play a major role in bringing such visitors into Bromsgrove.

Currently there are two trains an hour on the Cross City Line Service from Lichfield Trent Valley to Bromsgrove, with people from 23 different communities being able to travel directly by rail to the station. BARRUP is asking West Midlands Railways to upgrade the current hourly service on the New

40 Completely Bromsgrove

Street to Hereford route to be upgraded to half hourly, with all trains stopping at Barnt Green. This would improve the accessibility for people from another eight communities.

BARRUP is also campaigning with Cross Country Trains for trains on its Nottingham to Cardiff service to stop once again at the station.

If it did, then not only would it increase substantially the number of people who could travel directly from communities between the two cities, but also, by making a simple change of train at Worcestershire Parkway, enable people from communities along the GWR service between Parkway and London Paddington to visit Bromsgrove or, by making a simple change of train at Cheltenham Spa, enable people from Bristol and South West England to visit the town.

BARRUP will be pushing the rail companies to seize the oppor tunity to realise this enormous potential for leisure travel to Bromsgrove.

by Nick Taylor

ENTERPRISE RETIREMENT LIVING

MOUNT BATTENHALL

MOUNT BATTENHALL

Worcester’s luxurious retirement village

BECOME PART OF A VIBRANT COMMUNITY THIS NEW YEAR

Mount Battenhall offers independent retirement living within a friendly community, surrounded by 6.5 acres of beautiful grounds including a tranquil woodland walk. All this, just minutes from the centre of Worcester.

• Restaurant • Bar • Gym • Salon • Lounge • Library • Guest suite • Gated setting • Landscaped gardens • 24-hour on-site staff

Call 01905 630280 or visit mountbattenhall.co.uk The Marketing Suite, Mount Battenhall, Battenhall Avenue, Worcester WR5 2JD Completely Bromsgrove

41

Court Leet welcomes new Bailiff at Great Autumn Court

A

t the Great Autumn Court held in early November members of Bromsgrove Court Leet elected Neil Beaumont to be Bailiff and Robert Bird to take on the role of Reeve for the next twelve months.

The Immediate Past Bailiff Joanne Slade became the Custodian of the Records and Herald, a new position created to cover communications.

The day began with Town Crier and Court Leet Bellman summoning members to the Court from the High Street. Court Members gathered in the Old Chapel at Bromsgrove School and were joined by the High and Low Bailiffs from neighbouring Courts Leet in Alcester, Henley-in-Arden and Warwick, along with the High Bailiff from Northleach Court Leet.

The fifty Court Leet Members present, and their guests made a short procession to the Cookes Room where the Great Autumn Court was held. In addition to the election of the new Bailiff and Reeve new comers to the Court, who had joined during the pandemic when meetings were held on Zoom, were officially sworn into the Court by the Worthy Steward. Ealdorman Jeremy Sharp was sworn in as an Affeeror, Past Tythingman for Burcot Charlie Ayres was sworn in as The Headborough, past Tythingman Mark Robinson took the oath to join the Jury, Mr Peter Gale, retired teacher and Bromsgrove Printer Mr Richard Nokes were sworn in as Tythingmen for the Gannow and Fockbury yields.

A vote of thanks was given for Immediate Past Bailiff Joanne Slade who responded by saying it had been her great honour and absolute joy to serve the Court and

42 Completely Bromsgrove

the Town as Bailiff. She said that whilst the pandemic had stopped some of her plans, she had very much enjoyed the events on Zoom and, once restrictions were lifted, had used the traditions of the Court to support local independent businesses, charities and schools. Her highlights had included arranging the bunting in the town for Fair Day, the Assizes Day for Heritage Open Day and supporting Avoncroft at their reopening weekend and for Lammas Day. Jo paid thanks to Town Crier Kevin Ward for his support and long term commitment to the Court and Town.

In assuming the role of Bailiff for the ensuing year retired teacher Neil Beaumont said “I am very honoured to have been elected Bailiff of this remarkable and ancient Court Leet. We are so fortunate that previous members worked hard to preserve its existence. Bromsgrove remains one of the relatively few such Courts in the country with the legal right to uphold its ancient customs.

I must also pay tribute to our Immediate Past Bailiff, Miss Joanne Slade. She has steered the Court so energetically through these last two COVID-plagued years, not just delivering an extremely successful programme of events, but managing to enhance the Court’s community profile.

I am looking forward to building on Jo’s legacy and to serving our great town and Court Leet of Bromsgrove.”

HISTORY

Our glassmaking heritage B

romsgrove’s 19th centur y glassmakers are profiled in the latest edition of the Bromsgrove Rousler, the annual local histor y magazine.

The manufacture of hand-made nails was a staple of the Bromsgrove economy for more than 300 years. Towards the end of the 19th century the availability of cheaper machine-made nails caused the industry to decline and people looked for alternative employment. Enterprising individuals such as James Harrop used vacant nailshops to establish small, artisan glassworks.

With public tastes changing and increasing competition from abroad, glassmaking in the district declined after the First World War. Examples of locally-made glassware are now in the hands of collectors and are highly sought after.

Bromsgrove Museum has a collection of tools and ar tefacts relating to the trade.

The town’s little-known glassmaking heritage is one of the topics in this year’s edition of the Bromsgrove Rousler, the annual history magazine published by the Bromsgrove Society. Local historian Trevor Bott looks at how glassmaking prospered in the town’s nor thern districts from around 1870 through to 1940.

This year’s issue includes a profile of Benjamin Maund, the botanist and publisher who was one of the most prominent Bromsgrovians of the 19th century. Other ar ticles focus on the origins of Bromsgrove’s Cour t Leet; the history of Bromsgrove School’s two chapels; and Valley House, Bournheath, better known as ‘the Housman bir thplace’.

Copies of the latest Rousler are available to purchase from many local shops and businesses, priced £2.95. It can also be ordered online from www.bsoc.co.uk Harrop had learnt his trade in Stourbridge – the centre of glassmaking in the Midlands – and set up in a cottage at Alfred’s Well, Worms Ash. He became proficient in blown glassware and also produced moulded cruets and ink pots. His son Peter followed him into the business. Others, such as William Crawford and William Stevens, joined James Harrop as apprentices and went on to establish successful businesses of their own.

By the end of the 19th century, the cottages around Sidemoor, Bournheath, Fockbury and Fairfield were home to a small but vibrant glassmaking industry, producing distinctive and highly sought-after glassware. Among the most celebrated glassmakers was George Ernest Fox, who worked at Orchard Cottage, Bournheath. One of his creations was an elaborate gold-ruby vase, known as an epergne, which is now on show at the Pilkington Glass Museum in St Helens.

The Bromsgrove glassmakers proved their skills creating not only a variety of domestic glassware but also highly decorative and desirable creations. Few of these wares carried the makers’ mark and so establishing their provenance can be difficult.

by Mike Sharpe Completely Bromsgrove

43

MP meets the new Chief Constable of West Mercia Police

B

romsgrove MP, Sajid Javid, has met with the new Chief Constable of West Mercia Police, Pippa Mills to discuss local policing in Bromsgrove district and across West Mercia.

The meeting took place at Bromsgrove Police Station, where they were joined by the Deputy Chief Constable, Julian Moss.

“We had a productive discussion about the priorities for the local area, including on how we can maximise the uplift in the number of officers joining the force.

Topics of discussions ranged from police recruitment and visibility to the plans and support in place for specific communities in the area.

“Making sure Bromsgrove district is a safe and secure place to live, work and raise a family is a priority and I know the Chief Constable shares my commitment on this.”

By the end of September there had been an increase of 165 officers at West Mercia Police since the national recruitment programme began two years ago, with an additional 56 officers joining in October 2021.

Sajid Javid said: “It was great to meet with the Chief Constable of West Mercia Police to discuss local issues and how we can work together to support residents going forward.

44 Completely Bromsgrove

Pippa Mills added: “I was really pleased to meet with Sajid Javid as the local MP for Bromsgrove. I was able to outline my vision for West Mercia Police in providing quality policing services and protecting people from harm and we discussed our shared commitment to working with the communities in Bromsgrove to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour.”

Council push ahead with road plan R

esidents in Lickey End have reacted angrily to news that Worcestershire County Council is pushing ahead with plans to introduce another lane of traffic on the A38, in the face of local opposition.

In October more than 100 residents who live close to the route affected joined a protest against the plans and almost 300 residents in the area have signed a petition.

The Conservative controlled county council argues that the scheme is necessary to reduce traffic congestion, but residents fear the changes will make the problem worse, as well as making it more difficult to get on and off their drives. Cabinet members have now advised that there is no time left for further consultation with residents and they plan to press ahead with the scheme.

Although the county council has confirmed it no longer plans to close the School Lane junction completely, it will still remove the right hand turn onto School Lane from the A38 northbound lane. This means that anyone travelling from Bromsgrove to Lickey End will have to drive all the way up to the M42 junction one roundabout and then double back on themselves using the Alcester Road. Residents fear this will make traffic conditions and air pollution even worse in the area.

Councillor Josh Robinson, who represents the area on Worcestershire County Council as part of the Liberal Democrat opposition group, has lobbied against the changes since he was elected in May 2021, seeking a stronger focus on improved walking and cycling provision instead.

Following the council meeting where the decision was announced Mr Robinson said: “I am dismayed that the Conservatives have run down the clock on this and are now saying they have no time to re-consult the residents of Lickey End, an option they kept open originally. The fight is not over and we are taking advice on this. Let’s hope common sense prevails and residents are listened to.”

Councillor Rob Hunter, who represents Lickey End on Bromsgrove District Council, said: “While we acknowledge some welcome concessions have been made in response to protests, these do not go nearly far enough. Residents want to see a real solution to traffic congestion in the form of a Western Relief Road. This would be a much better use of the eyewatering £49m price tag of these unpopular changes to the A38.”

Perfect Partners the Heart of England

Don’t trust the internet meet a genuine person through Perfect Partners...

Safe

Secure

Successful

Genuine local introductions. All clients personally interviewed at home by Qualified Psychologist Established 30 years.

Tel: 01905 621183

What’s a £1 a day for Happiness?

Perfect Partners has the answer!

www.perfectpartnerstheheartofengland.co.uk

Completely Bromsgrove

45

Come party with us this Christmas at Hanbury Hall L

et’s Do The Time Warp Again this Christmas as we celebrate in true retro style inside the Hall at Hanbury. From Saturday 27 November until Monday 3 January, the tinsel is glowing, the laughter is flowing, the Babycham is popping, the Slade hits are dropping – we’re turning back the clock for a nostalgic trip back in time.

Inspired by rumours of wild house parties held at Hanbury Hall during the 70s and 80s, we have imagined a Christmas extravaganza inspired by the era.

Experience a blast from the past as you explore the house dressed for the Christmas many of us can still remember, a riot of colour, lights, and tunes galore.

As you wander through the Hall, reminisce over your favourite toys from the era and revisit a surprisingly familiar buffet. Catch some of the classics on the telly and dander upstairs to listen to all the Christmas number ones – all while enjoying a Babycham or two from our Del Boy bar, where you may even bump into Father Christmas as he wanders around the house and gardens.

In the garden, keep an eagle eye out for disco ball decorations dotted around the parterre and giant Rubik’s Cube Christmas tree holders. Whilst in the garden, head over to the Long Gallery, where you’ll find our newly opened second-hand bookshop. Filled to the

46 Completely Bromsgrove

brim with award winning titles, comfor ting classics and children’s books, there’s sure to be a hidden gem or two to be found.

As if all of that wasn’t enough, make sure to take a pit stop at the Servants’ Hall Tearoom, where you’ll find a whole host of tasty festive treats, including turkey baps, Christmas cake, mince pies, chocolate orange shortbread and cranberry & orange muffins.

Welcome to the par ty; come on in and enjoy the fun.

Changing Christmas Please note: the Christmas offer at Avoncroft Museum has had to change from that previously advertised!

4 and 5 December: Crafts, cards and carols

Have a go at making your own cards and decorations

11 and 12 December: Christmas through the ages

See Avoncroft come alive with people and festive traditions from the past. Plus browse the artisan market for unique gifts and warm up with hot food, hot chocolate and other festive goodies Extended opening on Saturday 11 December from 10am to 8pm

18 and 19 December: Homemade Christmas Spend time with loved ones, making simple things together, playing games, and enjoying the peace before the feast!

For more information and to book tickets please visit our events page on the website

www.avoncroft.org.uk/whats-on The Museum is 2 miles south of Bromsgrove off the A38 Sat Nav B60 4JR Completely Bromsgrove

47

Santa Safari returns with trees and lights galore W

est Midland Safari Park’s annual Santa Safari event will be going ahead this year.

Running from November 26th and running daily until Christmas Eve, the park’s Discovery Trail will be transformed with over 350 Christmas trees, festive decorations, dazzling fairy lights and even layers upon layers of ‘snow’.

Santa and his team of elves will be residing at the park, ready to greet guests, gift presents and spread some festive cheer. Families will be magically transported to the North Pole on Santa’s sleigh, then following a walk through the newly updated winter wonderland. they will be able to pay a visit to the big man himself in his grotto.

Children will receive a memento of their day by having a picture taken of themselves with Santa which they can then take home. They’ll also be able to choose their very own present in the elves’ workshop.

Also included in the package is a visit to Mrs Claus’ Kitchen, where children can receive a drink and cookie, whilst adults are treated to a hot drink and mince pie.

There is also the chance for children to enter the ‘Letters to Santa’ competition, where children can write a letter to Santa and post it in his magical talking postbox, for a chance to win a family annual pass.

Additionally, guests visiting this winter can experience a Virtual Reality Santa Sleigh Ride – a magical 4D adventure to the North Pole. Families can help Santa test out his sleigh before his big journey on Christmas Eve. Led by D.A.S.H, families will be transported across the globe and through a wintery wonderland, but as it’s a test run, it could be a bumpy ride!

Fur ther information is available from the park’s website www.wmsp.co.uk or by calling 01299 402114. Alternatively visit the park’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ WestMidSafari

48 Completely Bromsgrove

Get red-y for the return of the Santa Fun Run! W

hy not become Santa for the day in December to help Bromsgrove-based Primrose Hospice.

Santa Fun Run returns on Sunday, December 5 at Arrow Valley Country Park in Redditch and you can run, jog or walk the 1km or 5km route at your own pace. It’s a great way to get out and about on a winter’s morning with all your friends and family and take in the stunning views around the country park.

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 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.”

Find out more and register here: www.primrosehospice.org/events/santafun-run/

Take a break from Christmas wrapping Are you fed up of wrapping Christmas presents? Let Primrose Hospice take care of that task this year.

Pop down to the Kingfisher Centre in Redditch between December 13 and 18 and the team will beautifully wrap your gifts so you don’t have to.

Don’t worry about wrapping paper as we will have that in hand, all you need are your gifts. We will be asking for donations in exchange for wrapping and all donations will support Primrose Hospice and Family Support Centre. Contact us for more information about what time to go along to the centre.

If you would like to donate Christmas wrapping paper you can drop it at our charity shop in the centre or contact us.

All Primrose Hospice services are free to patients and families. Every year we need to raise over £1.75 million to continue offering our vital services and we would like to thank Completely Bromsgrove readers for your support with our fundraising.

For more information about how you can help, visit www.primrosehospice.org or call: 01527 871051

Completely Bromsgrove

49

Peter Pan the panto is one big adventure

A

fter a challenging time, families are ready for some good old-fashioned fun, laughter and panto magic.

Theatres have had a difficult 18 months as they’ve weathered the ongoing impact of Covid-19 and done all they can within the Government restrictions.

Now that life is hopefully feeling a little more normal for everyone, All & Sundry is delighted to bring its pantomime back for audiences at the Cobham Theatre at Bromsgrove School from December 16th to 23rd.

The venue may be different but the company’s dedication and commitment to giving audiences a pantomime to remember remains the same.

All & Sundry Productions is pulling out all the stops to make Peter Pan Bromsgrove’s most spectacular pantomime yet. As well as a fantastically talented cast and featuring the Stage Door Dance Academy, there will be special effects, colourful scenery and costumes plus plenty of traditional audience participation to keep the whole family entertained.

The pantomime is the highlight of the year for many residents and visitors and has become an annual tradition for many families in and around Bromsgrove.

Wendy Darling and her brothers are disturbed

by Peter Pan and Tinkerbell, who are searching for Peter’s missing shadow. He invites them to join him in Neverland, where they meet The Lost Boys who join forces with the Neverlandee Tribe and do battle with the evil Captain Hook.

Joining them in Neverland, is their ex-nanny, Corona McVitie, who somehow ends up as ship’s cook for Captain Hook, who is always trying to keep one step ahead of a ticking crocodile.

“Peter Pan promises to be a fantastic pantomime and we hope many people will take the chance to get back out and enjoy this family favourite. We will of course operate in line with any Covid-19 advice in place at the time, so people can feel reassured that public safety will be our priority,” said Alison Berrisford, All & Sundry Productions co-chair and director.

Around 100 seats are still available for the Baden Powell evenings on December 16th and 21st.

For discounted group tickets for these performances please contact Alison via email at alisonberrisford@live.co.uk

50 Completely Bromsgrove

Completely Bromsgrove

51

Grab your popcorn for FeckenOdeon nights

T

he FeckenOdeon Cinema Society in Feckenham has two acclaimed films lined up for December and January.

On Monday, December 27th at 7.30pm, cinemagoers can enjoy Local Hero (PG), a warm-hearted British film for Christmas.Take a break from the leftovers and the tired tinsel and relax in the warm darkness of the cinema with a classic movie making a welcome return to the big screen.

Texan oil magnate Felix Happer (Burt Lancaster) gets the idea that a small Scottish fishing village would be a marvellous acquisition for his so-rich-it-makesyou-sick company, Knox Oil and Gas. Not surprisingly the locals don’t share his vision. A lovely, quirky, funny film directed by Bill Forsyth and starring Peter Capaldi, Fulton Mackay and Denis Lawson.

Hitting the big screen on Saturday, January 29th at 7.30pm is Knives Out (12A).

Who says they don’t make films like they used to do? This very recent whodunnit almost out-hitches the great Alfred Hitchcock himself.

A wealthy publishing magnate has been found dead in his study. It looks like a suicide, but we know better as there’s a mansion full of suspects.This star-studded homage to the Agatha Christie style murder mystery has a delightfully full stock of red herrings and plot twists.The cast includes Christopher Plummer, Jamie Lee Curtis and Daniel Craig.

The FeckenOdeon is Feckenham’s community cinema based at the Village Hall in the High Street.

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.

Chilling tales for winter nights Fans of intimate storytelling combined with theatrical inventiveness will enjoy A Ghost of a Smile, which is being staged at Feckenham Village Hall on Sunday, December 5 at 7.30pm.

The show comprises two of Charles Dickens’ creepy tales but with a comic twist. Think of The Woman in Black but funnier and with fewer people!

Adapted and directed by Gavin Robertson and performed by Nicholas Collett, A Ghost of a Smile is presented in association with Live and Local, Worcestershire’s Touring Arts scheme – bringing Live Arts to Your Doorstep.

Book online through feckhall.org or by phone on 0333 666 3366.

Tickets are also on sale at The Village Shop and The Rose & Crown in Feckenham. Doors open at 7pm on the night and there is a licensed bar.

52 Completely Bromsgrove

Enjoy all that jazz at Welcome Back festival B

romsgrove will be filled with the sounds of saxophones as the next Welcome Back activity takes place.

The first Jazz around Town festival will be bringing live music to several venues in the town centre and surrounding areas over the weekend of November 26th to 28th.

Jazz around the Town will kick off at 7pm on Friday, November 26th with the Joe Masterson Trio playing at The Ewe and Lamb in Hanbury Road, Stoke Heath.

An incredible range of musicians, including Seanne Yarded, Saximised and The Lady and The Sax will be performing at venues such as The Dry Spy, Bayleys of Bromsgrove and No.3A.Visit Bromsgrove District Council’s website for the most up to date programme.

Council leader and portfolio holder for economic regeneration, Councillor Karen May, said: “The launch event in October was excellent, and I can’t wait to see our residents enjoying the next instalment with Jazz around the Town.

“It is so important that our residents benefit from the Welcome Back funds whether that is investing the money in street furniture, community clean-up projects or events like this one.

Moving into December, Welcome Back Christmas sees the installation of a 25-foot Christmas tree at the BirdBox in advance of the Christmas Market with wooden chalets selling handmade crafts and local vendors selling street food, steins of beer, mulled wine and Baileys hot chocolate.

The market opening times are: Friday, December 17th from 2pm to 8pm, Saturday, December 18th from 12pm to 8pm and Sunday, December 19th from 12pm to 5pm.

These events are part of a series of projects which will run through to the end of March 2022 as the council and North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration 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, is to support the safe return to high streets and help build back better from the pandemic.

“Heading into Christmas, after a particularly tough 18 months for everyone, this is a prime opportunity to book a table at your local venue and let your hair down and relax with some fantastic music, food and drink.”

Jazz around Town follows the successful Welcome Back launch event in October, using cash from the Government’s Welcome Back Fund and under the ‘Your People,Your Places,Your Bromsgrove’ banner.

Completely Bromsgrove

53

Genny offers caffeine boost for commuters

C

ommuters and travellers using Bromsgrove railway station can now enjoy hot and cold drinks and snacks.

Curlew Espresso is open from 6am to 12pm on weekdays and from 10am to 1pm on Saturday until Christmas, though this may be extended depending on demand.

Owner Genny Billington said: “I’ve been at the station for just over two months and it’s lovely to see regular faces coming back throughout the week.

“Alongside hot drinks I’m now offering a wide range of cold drinks and snacks including breakfast items such as pots of porridge with fruit and orange juice.

“My aim is to serve great coffee with a smile. I sell a wonderfully tasty medium roast from Ritual coffee roasters which many customers have commented on as being their new favourite.

“I also try to be eco-friendly, using compostable cups, recycling and upcycling my furniture used in the shop.”

In December Genny will be offering festive hot drinks including ‘extra’ hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows and gingerbread lattes to warm customers up on the way to the Christmas markets or on their daily commute.

LICKEY HILLS ART SOCIETY has its first live meeting on Saturday 4th December 7.30pm at Longbridge Methodist Church there will be a short AGM followed by at exciting demonstration by Richard Crabtree please join us for an entertaining evening.

Do you need your grass cutting?

DONE Mowing Services Your Mowing DONE For You! We have been providing a grass cutting service in the local area for the past 32 years!

COMPETITIVE PRICES -

ANY LENGTH OR SIZED GARDEN

Fully Insured

FOR A FREE QUOTE FROM A LOCAL COMPANY CALL PAUL IN BROMSGROVE on 07775 518277

54 Completely Bromsgrove

All change at Sporting

D

espite a good run in the FA Cup and a brief improvement in September after a poor It's All Change at Bromsgrove Sporting start to the season, Sporting’s leagueDespite form again dipped. As a result it was agreed at a good run in the FA Cup and a brief improvement in September after a poor start to the season, S league form again dipped. leave As a resultthe it was agreed the end of Octoberconsent. that manager Brendan Kelly wou the end of October that manager Brendan Kelly would clubatby mutual the club by mutual consent. Under Brendan's tenure, Sporting achieved a lot of success, winning two prom Under Brendan’s tenure, Sporting achieved a lot of success, winning two promotions and at and at one stage were looking for another before COVID halted two seasons prematurely.

Former coach at Stourbridge Gresleyseasons Rovers manager, Gavin Hurren took over as interim manager and one stage were looking for another before COVID haltedandtwo prematurely.

a decent run of four matches without defeat, the appointment was made permanent. Former Hednesford

boss,4-3 Gary on Birchahas been appointed assistant manager.

Former coach at Stourbridge and Gresley Rovers Walsall Woodwin penalty shoot-out.

So disappointment Gavin's first match after confirmation as manager Trophy against Morpeth manager, Gavin Hurren took over as interim manager for Sporting to lose that was wayin the butFAconcentration willTown from Northumberland. The game ended in a 0-0 stalemate that that the visitors went on to win 4-3 on a penalty and following a decent run of four matches withoutout. now be on improving league form.

So disappointment for Sporting to lose that way but concentration will now be on improving league fo defeat, the appointment was made permanent. Former up to end of January are as follows: Fixtures up toFixtures the end of January arethe as follows: Hednesford Town and Walsall Wood boss, Gary Day Date K/O V Opponents Competition Birch has been appointed assistant manager.

Gavin’s first match after confirmation as manager was in the FA Trophy against Morpeth Town from Northumberland. The game ended in a 0-0 stalemate that that the visitors went on to

Tue

30-Nov

7:45 PM

A

Rushall Olympic

Sat

4-Dec

3:00 PM

A

Royston Town

League Cup

Southern League

Tue

7-Dec

7:45 PM

A

Pershore Town

Worcs Senior Cup

Sat

11-Dec

3:00 PM

H

St Ives Town (Cambs)

Southern League

Sat

18-Dec

3:00 PM

A

Hednesford Town

Southern League

Mon

27-Dec

3:00 PM

H

Stourbridge

Southern League

Sat

1-Jan

3:00 PM

A

Stratford Town

Southern League

Mon

3-Jan

3:00 PM

A

Biggleswade Town

Southern League

Sat

5-Jan

3:00 PM

A

Leiston

Southern League

Sat

15-Jan

3:00 PM

H

Alvechurch

Southern League

Sat

22-Jan

3:00 PM

A

Coalville Town

Southern League

Sat

29-Jan

3:00 PM

H

Lowestoft Town

Southern League

Both the Sporting Ladies and Veterans teams are doing well having both won their last matches 6-0 at the Ground and are top of theirSporting respective leagues.

Both the Ladies and Veterans teams are doing

Off the pitch, the having bar and studio now available again matches to hire for functions parties. In addition Santa well botharewon their last 6-0 atand the be visiting the Victoria Ground with his elves on Tuesday 21st December from 4pm to 8pm. Cost is £5 per Victoria Ground and are top of their respective leagues. hospitality@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk for more information and tickets. The bar will be open with hot tur Off the pitch, the bar and studio are now available again on sale.

to hire for functions and parties. In addition Santa Claus will be visiting the Victoria Ground with his elves on Tuesday 21st December from 4pm to 8pm. Cost is £5 per child. Email hospitality@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk for more information and tickets. The bar will be open with hot turkey baps on sale.

For more information about Bromsgrove Sporting, Visit www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

For more information about Bromsgrove Sporting, go to www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

by Phil Baker Photos by Chris Jepson

New manager Gavin Hurren

Completely Bromsgrove

55

Half Price Fitting on ALL orders*

40 20 1982 -

22

RS 40 YEA

Kitchens | Bedrooms | Home Studies

FITTED INTERIORS Visit us at: Saxon Park, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove B60 4AD Tel: 01527 835924 | Showrooms also at Kenilworth, Knowle and Studley

www.akfittedinteriors.co.uk *Between 13.12.21 and 31.1.22. T&Cs apply.