Completely Bromsgrove issue 42 July '22

See Pages 31 - 34 for this summer’s BDC what’s on events

Issue 42

July 2022

Completely

Bromsgrove

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Welcome to the July issue of Completely Bromsgrove

A

s I sit at my laptop in a cool dining room, I am grateful that our house never really gets that hot as outside the temperature is a balmy 24 degrees. Let’s all hope that summer has finally arrived after a couple of false starts.

With the lovely warmer weather and long, light nights, there are so many events and things going on across the region this month from Bromsgrove Carnival on July 16th to outdoor cinema screenings at Hanbury Hall. For a full round up of summer events turn to pages 31 – 34 where you will find a calendar of events organised by Bromsgrove District Council.

Gosh, I’m exhausted just thinking about how full my diary is going to be over the coming weeks but, on the other hand, we are so lucky that there is always something happening for all age groups within our district.

For animal lovers among our readers, Blue Cross have written a heartfelt article on their 125th

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Contents

6 8 10 12 14 16 18 22 28 29 30

Lickey End Plant Patrol Care UK Batonbearer Leanna GJH Electrical Street Pastors Gardening Worcs Timber/Flower Club WWT - Wonderful wasps Sajid Run/Superhero Night Butchers Block Charity Event Recipe

31 36 37 38 40 41 42 44 45 46 47

May I wish you all a great July and I look forward to bringing you another bumper issue for August Very best wishes,

BDC - What’s On Health & Wellbeing B’grove Photo Society Jubilee Jubilations History Alvechurch Legal Blue Cross Bromsgrove Shedders Charity Mourns Eddie BDC News BARRUP Rail Affairs

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

Completely Bromsgrove

While we are talking about animals, with the weather heating up, take care when walking your dogs on hot pavements and never leave your pet in a car, windows open or not.

Michele Ford

38 50 59

Completely

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anniversary which they are celebrating this month and resident contributor Wendy Carter from Worcestershire Wildlife Trust gives an insight into wasps and the reasons we should understand them rather than wanting to kill them. I’ll leave you to make your own minds up!

48 50 52 53 54 55 56 58 59 62 63

Drive Time Motor Shows Bromsgrove Carnival Broadcaster Pat Reflects Funtopia Feckodeon Hanbury Hall Theatre Fairfield Flicks Lyn Sharp’s Art Exhibition Avoncroft Cricket B’grove Sporting FC

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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Enthusiastic residents rooting for Lickey End G

reen-fingered volunteers recently joined a community planting event at the Spadesbourne Brook in Lickey End Recreation Ground. Aiming to improve biodiversity and make Lickey End a better environment for wildlife, the budding gardeners got stuck in on a sunny Sunday morning in May. The event was organised to help reintroduce native plant species after years of damage caused by Himalayan Balsam weeds. Not only did the invasive balsam plants contribute to flooding, but they also killed off other weaker plants, reducing the quality of the natural environment.

The get together was the latest in a series of events organised by Liberal Democrat councillors Rob Hunter and Josh Robinson. Last year the community came together twice to clear out the Himalayan Balsam.

With the waterway now less clogged up, residents are working on reintroducing lost native plantlife.

Over the course of a just a couple of hours, budding gardeners came together to plant around 100 plants including water mint, sweet flag, water avens, sweet grass, marsh marigolds and water plantain.

Some brought gardening tools and wellies and dug out spaces for the new plants, whilst others went round with gardening bags checking for any new shoots of Himalayan Balsam. The event was suppor ted by Bromsgrove District Council who funded the plants.

Last year Rob Hunter set up a special working group at the council to look at the problem of flooding across the district. Leading on from the group’s work, the council is now adopting a new district-wide watercourse maintenance schedule. This will ensure watercourses in places like Lickey End no longer get flooded due to overgrown weeds and invasive plants. Rob also successfully lobbied the council to bring in specialist contractors to desilt the brook.

Rob said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to my colleagues at the district council for all their help with improving the brook at Lickey End. The flooding really had become intolerable, not to mention dangerous, but now we have an oppor tunity to create a much more welcoming environment, both for residents and wildlife.”

Josh added: “It was fantastic to see so many eager volunteers of all ages showing up to help improve their local environment and I can’t thank them enough. I’m so proud to represent such a generous and community spirited area.”

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Advertisement Feature

Quality care in Bromsgrove you can trust W

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Dream comes true for Leanna as Queen’s Baton Relay visits Bromsgrove T

he Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay will visit Bromsgrove during its final journey through England this month.

The 16th official relay will travel the length and breadth of England for a total of 29 days before the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony on July 28th.

During its time in Bromsgrove on July 23rd, the Queen’s Baton Relay will visit Sanders Park and activities include demonstrations from Bromsgrove Gymnastics Club, the Music Bus from Severn Arts, Bromsgrove Festival and a celebration of the park’s bandstand, which is 20 years old this year. The baton relay around the lake star ts at 8.59am followed by the celebration at 9.06am.

Bromsgrove District Council Leader Councillor Karen May said: “Bromsgrove is delighted to see Batonbearers making their way across the district in what is going to be a phenomenal year. I hope that as many residents as possible will take to the streets to cheer them on.”

Thousands of Batonbearers, each with inspiring backgrounds and stories, will have the honour of carrying the baton. One of the confirmed Batonbearers in Bromsgrove is Leanna Horne, who was nominated by the district council for her inspirational contribution to disability and sport in the area.

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Completely Bromsgrove

The 34-year-old from Rubery was stunned when she heard the news after not being able to compete in her chosen spor t, seated club throw, since the end of the 2019 season, despite clinching a gold medal in Barcelona in 2018, due to the pandemic.

Leanna said: “I am absolutely honoured to have been nominated for this especially as it has been a quiet couple of years for me in a spor ting capacity.

“I am also a volunteer performer at the Commonwealth Games, as well as being a volunteer in athlete services, so although my spor t doesn’t feature, I feel that I am very much involved in this historic event which is right on our doorstep.”

Leanna found her passion for seated throw while at school, starting with seated shot in 2002, before adding seated discus and seated club throw in 2013.

She added: “I want to continue to highlight the facilities available in the Midlands and help to improve those where they are not so good, which could inspire other people to get involved, enjoy and succeed in a sport. Being a Batonbearer will help me to do this and I look forward to being a part of the amazing atmosphere.”

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Advertisement Feature

Local family business can light up your life B

ritain’s town centres have had to endure a difficult time with the rise of online shopping and the pandemic.

But one thriving family business in Bromsgrove has forged a model that others could learn from – with personal service very much at its heart.

GJH Electrical Services Ltd have been based in Church Street for the past six years and the company itself, which serves both domestic and commercial customers, was established in 2007.

It’s very much a family affair with owner Gareth Hodson’s wife and business manager Sue a smiling face in the store along with Barry, who works on Wednesday and is a whizz with lamp repairs, and Margaret, who has served the Bromsgrove community working in the town for many years.

The Electrical Shop offers a friendly face, good advice based on many years of experience and the following: • Lighting supplies • Switches, sockets, power cables and containment • Telephone and data • Fire and security Gareth said: “We are an electrical shop and because we are qualified we’re able to give the sort of free advice that wholesalers aren’t permitted to.

“We’re proud to say that we’ve got a lot of regular customers but of course we’d love to welcome more

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Completely Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove residents who possibly have walked past the shop but haven’t come in and spoken to us before.”

Energy saving initiatives are high on many people’s shopping lists at present as costs continue to rise.

“We sell LED light bulbs and EV chargers for electric vehicles and can also recommend companies who fit solar panels if our customers are interested,” said Gareth.

What makes this town centre store extra special is the delivery and fitting services it provides for customers which complement the sound, straightforward advice from experienced electricians.

“We offer a free delivery service on all items ordered, so if we do not have it in stock we will order it in and then deliver it to you if required to the Bromsgrove area and we can also take orders over the phone,” said Gareth.

“We will also fit light bulbs to give people peace of mind and to save them having to worry about climbing onto a chair.”

GJH Electrical Services Ltd’s Electrical Shop is located at 12 Church Street, Bromsgrove, B61 8DD. Call 01527 306154, email info@gjhelectrical.com or visit www.gjhelectrical.com for more details.

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Completely Bromsgrove

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Celebrating 10 years of Bromsgrove Street Pastors A

s the world watched the opening ceremony of the London Olympics on July 27th 2012 Bromsgrove saw the first ever team of Street Pastors take to the streets.

Perhaps you were one of the those who looked on with intrigue, wondering who these people were and what they were doing. Ten years later they’re still here, so who are Bromsgrove Street Pastors?

The patrol teams are all Christians from local churches who volunteer their time to support the night-time economy of Bromsgrove. From their base at Bromsgrove Baptist Church, a team of three or four head out at 10pm on a Friday night, take a couple of breaks along the way, and finish once the streets are calm after the last venue closes. That’s usually around 4.30am on Saturday morning.

They are supported by a prayer team back at base who pray into situations that the Street Pastors come across, and to have food and drinks ready when the team returns to base for a break.

Rev Paul Lewis, minister of Bromsgrove Baptist Church and chair of trustees for Bromsgrove Street Pastors, said: “We won’t patrol without our prayer team supporting us. They pray for those who are in need, as well as for our protection”.

The Street Pastors are well-known for the lollipops, flipflops and water they give out.

Paul said: “Handing someone a lollipop is a great

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Completely Bromsgrove

conversation starter, but they are also a useful sugar fix for those who have taken their revelry a little too far. The flipflops are a welcome relief for those who could cope with their high heels when they left home, but then find out several hours later they’re much less comfortable.”

Aiming to diffuse incidents of anti-social behaviour and help those who are vulnerable, the Street Pastors’ first aid training enables them to help in all kinds of situations.

“Our core aims are to be there to care, help, and listen,” Paul added. “When people ask us why we do this, or about our faith, we’ll talk to them about our Christian perspective that motivates us to serve the people of Bromsgrove in this way.”

Later this year Bromsgrove Street Pastors will morph into Bromsgrove Town Pastors. The name will change and the uniform change colour, but what they do will be the same.

Paul explained: “We’re making these changes to secure our future and ensure that all of the funding we receive goes towards meeting the needs of our local community.”

More details about the changes ahead will be available soon, including information on how you can donate to this much-needed project.

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GARDENING

Bamboo adds structure to garden space I

love to sit in my garden, surrounded by all the colours, sounds and fragrances. But I’m faced with an empty space along the fence line which has made me think about a quick solution in the shape of a plant screen; but what fits the bill?

After much research I discovered that I might like to grow bamboo. Cries of “it’s too invasive, it pops up everywhere, you’ll never be able to control it” made me waver, well for a minute or two. My only brush with bamboo was putting up canes each season for my runner beans, not too much of an ordeal.

With running bamboos, it’s ideal to grow them in containers so their growth is restricted. However, if you are growing them in the ground, it is beneficial to dig a trench and line it with an impermeable material such as paving slabs so the roots have a limited spread.

Well, I never knew there could be such a wide range of colours - red, yellow and black - and so many different ornamental stems. Bamboo is great for creating privacy as well as adding structure to a space and when the wind catches the leaves, that dry rustle sounds like nothing on earth. But there are a few things to know before committing to growing bamboo in your garden.

Bamboos prefer a slightly acidic well drained soil, so ericaceous compost is fine to use. From spring to autumn, bamboo plants will appreciate a regular liquid feed. Keep the plants looking tidy too by removing any dead, damaged or diseased leaves.

Firstly, there are two types of bamboo. Running bamboo is known as the invasive bamboo which has long underground stems called rhizomes that spread quickly, hence the name. On the other hand, there are the clump-forming bamboos that grow in clumps and are less invasive.

Did you know that bamboo produces 35% more oxygen than trees, and it consumes more carbon dioxide than any other plant? This means they are helping to reverse the effects of global warming by swallowing up greenhouse gasses. On top of that, bamboo can also be used in flooring, furniture, utensils, even bedding and clothing. A very versatile plant indeed.

Some jobs to keep you busy in July Cut lavender for drying, choosing newly opened flowers for the best fragrance, then hang up in a cool, dark place.

Give dahlias a liquid feed, keep them well watered and tie the shoots of tall varieties to sturdy stakes as they grow.

Keep on top of weeding your borders, so weeds don’t have time to set seed.

Feed and deadhead summer bedding regularly, in pots, borders and hanging baskets. Keep them well watered as they dry out very quickly.

Cut back early summer perennials, such as hardy geraniums and delphiniums, after flowering for a second flush.

Remember to pause and take time to smell the roses and enjoy the results of all your hard work.

By Suzi M plotter, gardener and flower lover

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Completely Bromsgrove

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Sheds for all seasons – and styles S

Advertisement Feature

ince the pandemic, sheds have soared in popularity, offering extra space during lockdown and continuing to fulfil requirements as an additional room.

Sheds have really come into their own for all sor ts of different purposes other than just the traditional (and still essential) garden storage.

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Movie afternoon with a difference!

B

romsgrove Flower Club members and visitors will be taken on a fascinating journey to the movies on Thursday 21st July 2022

Accomplished flower arranger Sandra Gunner will interpret various movies using interesting containers, and a variety of colourful, seasonal, flowers and foliage Her creative arrangements will then be put into a raffle.

A warm welcome and a cup of tea will await you. Come and join us at 2.00pm at All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B60 1AF Entrance fee is £3.00 for members and £7.00 for visitors For more info, visit www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk or www.facebook.com/bromsgroveflowerclub

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Completely Bromsgrove

Both displays were designed and arranged by Dawn Kietley

Completely Bromsgrove

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by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

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Completely Bromsgrove

The wonderful world of wasps P

icnic pests or beautiful insects that need your love just as much as their furrier bumblebee cousins?

There are an incredible 7000+ species of wasp in the UK. Some hunt spiders, some feed weevils to their young and others parasitise bodies or nests. The ones we’re most familiar with, however, are the black and yellow beasties that plague us on late summer afternoons when we’re enjoying the outdoors.

I’ve lost count of the times I’ve heard “but what are wasps actually good for?”.They’re important pollinators, valuable predators, amazing engineers (they build intricate nests using, essentially, papier mache) and an inspiration to modern medicine (scientists are exploring the chemicals in their stings). Of course, they’re also important just for being part of our amazing natural world.

If they’re so great (they are, I promise), why the lousy reputation? There are nine species of social wasp in the UK and it’s this social lifestyle that brings them into conflict with us. Like bumblebees, wasp colonies are ruled by a queen who is responsible for creating and maintaining her large family. Her brood of female workers maintain the nest and hunt food to keep the little ones fed.

The larvae eat insects that you might think of as pests – flies, weevils, caterpillars etc.The larvae can munch on solids to their heart’s content but the adults are ‘waspwaisted’ and can only slurp liquids like nectar or the sweet juice that the larvae excrete.This is where they come into contact with us. In late summer, queens produce only males and new queens so the number of larvae in the nest reduces…and so does the amount of sweet drink that they produce. Adult wasps go in search of sweetness and,

as well as natural sources like nectar and fruit, they find our fizzy drinks and sweet food rather attractive.

We’re not keen on sharing, however. To encourage wasps to leave you alone, consider placing something sweet (a small piece of fruit, an upturned bottle cap) nearby, perhaps at the other end of your picnic bench. You may have had no idea that you’ve got a wasp nest near your house until the colony winds down but once this star ts, you’re just a matter of weeks away from them disappearing altogether – pop some rotting fruit away from the house to tempt them to the other end of the garden.

Only female wasps are able to sting and will only (usually) do so if they feel threatened so try to relax and keep calm until they buzz off. For more information and to watch our short video about the importance and diversity of wasps, take a look at www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/blog/ seasonal-spot/wonderful-wasps

Follow us on Twitter @WorcsWT www.facebook.com/worcestershirewildlifetrust www.youtube.com/c/orcswildlifetrustUK1 Photos: Wendy Carter, Will Watson, Paul Hobson

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Completely Bromsgrove

27

Bromsgrove MP raises funds £6000 for Primrose Hospice

B

romsgrove MP, Sajid Javid, has raised over £6,000 for the Primrose Hospice on what is their annual fundraising week, ‘Yellow Week’.

Sajid, who is a patron of the Hospice, completed the 10k race on Sunday, 13th of June. He ran the course in just 53 minutes and 41 seconds, beating his previous time of 59 minutes and 44 seconds.

The money he raised will support the vital work the Primrose Hospice does to care for and suppor t patients and families across Bromsgrove and the wider Nor th Worcestershire.

This was Sajid’s third 10k for the Hospice and took his total funds raised to over £40,000 since 2020.

Mr Javid said: “ As a proud patron, I know firsthand the impor tance of the Primrose

Hospice’s work and the difference they make to people’s lives locally.

I am delighted to have raised over £6,000 this year and kick off their fundraising week. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who suppor ted me and donated so generously.

“Yellow Week is a fantastic opportunity to interact with the Hospice and learn more about the work they do – I want to wish everyone involved the best of luck.”

Superhero film night is hit for teens B

romsgrove-based child care agency Children Always First were joined by fabulous teens for an evening of chilling, chatting and movie madness on May 30th.

Some of our young people also helped in the kitchen to prepare pizza, chips and popcorn for the rest of the group, who then settled down to enjoy the latest Spiderman movie.

This was a great oppor tunity for teenagers to come together, connect and maybe even make new friends.

CAF was taken over by our minis on June 1st. Fancy dress was highly encouraged and this resulted in not one but three Princess

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Completely Bromsgrove

Elsas from Frozen joining the par ty. Even the staff got dressed up for the occasion.

There were crafts, games, karaoke and disco fun as well as a relaxing sit down with the movie Raya and the Last Dragon plus popcorn and pizza for all.

For more information about joining Children Always First’s team of dedicated foster carers, email info@childrenalwaysfirst. co.uk or call 01527 917888.

Advertisement Feature

Annual charity event returns at Butchers Block H

ot off their fantastic store refurbishment, Lilith and Michelle are again raising money for local charities to celebrate four years on the High Street.

On Saturday 30th July, Lilith will be back out on the market, swapping her popular Street food for charitable donations. “ We are so excited to finally be celebrating our refurbishment with everyone” Says Lilith, “this year is extra special as we finally have our new look store.

“Veronica has been working tirelessly for over 20 years to support ladies with cancer, she’s not only a good friends but her charity has helped a devoted customer of ours too” says Michelle. “Veronica is like us, an honorary Bromsgrovian and is so hands on with helping in so many ways, we wanted to give her a bit of support.

The charities being supporting this years are SOBS (Survivors of bereavement of suicide), Butcher’s Blocks nominated charity and this year’s second charity is Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer.

Come down and join us as we celebrate another fantastic year on the High Street.

For more information follow us at: @butchersblockbromsgrove

The only all female staffed butchers in the West Midlands!

53 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AJ

Tel: 01527 570241

www.facebook.com/ButchersBlockBromsgrove Completely Bromsgrove

29

RECIPE

Grilled chicken teriyaki skewers with peanut dip Preparation: For the teriyaki sauce, put 4 tbsp of Kikkoman soy sauce, honey and balsamic vinegar in a saucepan and reduce by half over a gentle heat.

In the meantime, skewer the cubes of chicken and brush with rapeseed oil.

For the dip, mix peanut butter in a bowl with water and 3 tbsp of Kikkoman soy sauce and stir until smooth. Chop the peanuts, stir in and pour the peanut dip into a bowl. Quarter the limes.

Grill or barbecue the chicken skewers while brushing with the teriyaki sauce until cooked through Arrange the finished chicken teriyaki skewers on a platter and serve with peanut dip and lime wedges.

Ingredients for 4 portions: • 7 tbsp Kikkoman naturally brewed soy sauce • 5 tbsp honey • 1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar • 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes • 2 tbsp rapeseed oil • 150g peanut butter

• 130 ml of water • 100g peanuts, dry roasted in a pan • 2 limes • approx. 10 kebab skewers

Prep. time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

www.lovebritishfood.co.uk

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Completely Bromsgrove

Baton in Bromsgrove The Queen’s Baton Relay will visit Sanders Park on the 23rd of July,

where there will also be entertainment including Bromsgrove Gymnastics Club and the Music Bus from Seven Arts and Bromsgrove Festival.

The schedule of activity for the Baton’s time in Bromsgrove includes: • 08:59, Baton Relay around the pond, Sanders Park • 09:06, Bromsgrove Celebration, Sanders Park One of the confirmed community Batonbearers in Bromsgrove is Leanna Horne, who was nominated by the District Council for her inspirational contribution to disability and sport in the area.

The 34-year-old from Rubery, who clinched a gold medal in Barcelona 2018 in Club Throw, said: “I want to continue to highlight the facilities available in the Midlands and also help to improve those where they are not so good, which could inspire other people to get involved, enjoy and succeed in a sport. Being a baton bearer will help me to do this and I look forward to being a part of the amazing atmosphere.”

Residents are invited to line the route for this historic event – see www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/commonwealth for more details

Don’t miss our events calendar inside! 31 Completely Bromsgrove

Events

July Sun

M

Tue

Wed

Thurs

All events take place in Sanders Park except those stated

Fri

Bromsgrove Festival from 24th June - 24th July www.bromsgrovefestival.co.uk

Free Bandstand Schools Music & song from Fairfield School, 1pm

Free Bandstand Music A D Concert Band, 2.30pm

Social Eats Street food, music & bars at BirdBox, Town Centre 4 - 10pm

Sanders Park, Kidderminster Rd, Bromsgrove, B61 7JP

Free Bandstand Schools Music & song from Rigby Hall School, 10.30am

Free Bandstand Music Blackwell Wind Band, 2.30pm

Bromsgrove Carnival & Wilson’s Funfair, Town Centre Queen’s Social Eats Baton Relay Street food, 8:59am music & bars around the at BirdBox, lake. 9:06am Town Centre Bromsgrove Celebration 4 - 10pm

Free Bandstand Music Royal Spa Brass, 2.30pm Free Bandstand Music Avonbank Brass Band, 2.30pm Free Bandstand Music Jazz Alchemy, 2.30pm

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Sat

Free Circus Kaos Workshops Drop-in from 12 - 4pm

Free Angie Mack Hula Hoop Shows At 12, 1.30 & 3pm

Free Professor Chandler’s Punch & Judy Shows At 12, 1.30 & 3pm

Calendar Sun

Free Bandstand Music Shipston Town Band, 2.30pm Green Fun Day Free entrance & parking, 12 - 4.30pm Free Bandstand Music Brass Beatz, 2.30pm Free Bandstand Music Alcester Victoria Silver Band, 2.30pm

M

Tue

Free Circus Kaos Workshops Drop-in from 12 - 4pm

August Wed Free Glamba Drumming Workshops Drop-in from 12 - 3.30pm

Free - Meet Dougie the baby Dino At 12, 1.30 & 3pm

Free Purple Spider Activity Bus Drop-in from 12 - 4pm

Free Angie Mack Hula Hoop Shows At 12, 1.30 & 3pm

F S

Free Glamba Drumming Workshops Drop-in from 12 - 3.30pm

Free Circus Kaos Workshops Drop-in from 12 - 4pm

Free Circus Kaos Workshops Drop-in from 12 - 4pm

Thurs

Free Purple Spider Activity Bus Drop-in from 12 - 4pm

Free Professor Chandler’s Punch & Judy Shows At 12, 1.30 & 3pm

Free Bandstand Music Singers Charlie Thompson & Stefan Law, 2.30pm

Completely Bromsgrove

33

BirdBox

A roarsome event!

BirdBox is Bromsgrove’s space for live events, pop-up dining, arts and crafts demonstrations, well-being activities and, well whatever you want it to be! In between events it’s there to be enjoyed by everyone.

If you would like to book the space contact events@ bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk Oh we are on Facebook and insta too.

BirdBox played host to an epic Dinosaur themed event in February.

Follow our social media for updates on future events!

@birdboxbromsgrove_ @BirdBoxBromsgrove As well as fun events we also have lots of ways for you to keep active from walks for health, disability activities, exercise classes plus Summer Holiday Activities supporting Food for Children.

For more info search ‘Active Bromsgrove’ on www.bromsgrove.gov.uk

All details were correct at the time of going to print, event programme may be subject to change. Outdoor performances are subject to change/cancellation due to adverse weather conditions. Events could also be subject to cancellation if Government COVID-19 advice changes. For more info please see www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/events or call 01527 534030 or email events@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk Please also see the above website if you would like to book an event on our land.

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model school @ georgehairdressing davis Full Head of Summer Lights for just £50

This very SPECIAL OFFER is about showcasing our young talent.

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Beauty Room to let in a very busy salon, come and join our great team!

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Call us now to book an appointment or book on-line

www.georgedavishairdressing.co.uk 14 St John Street, Bromsgrove, B61 8QY Tel: 01527 577000 Completely Bromsgrove

35

As we age, Redox is the key

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

A

s we age, our redox molecules decrease by 10% every decade after the age of 40 and our nutrient needs can either stay the same or increase.

We need to understand that we must eat nutrientrich foods in order to get the vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, and fats that we need to keep ourselves and our immune system healthy. However, getting most of our calories from nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables and fruits, can be difficult with the farming practices and the travelling times that our food is subject to as it is transported around the world.

Protein becomes even more important as we age.

As a rule of thumb, adults need one gram of protein per kilo of body weight. But as we get older, we need to increase that to 1.2 grams. So, for example, if you weigh 50 kilos you need 50 grams of protein per day.

With an older adult that needs to be increased to 60 grams per day.

If you were building a house, you would need raw materials to build the house such as bricks, mortar, wood, and nails. You also need a foreman to tell the people who are building the house where to take the materials and how to put them together because the foreman has the blueprint of how the house needs to be built.

When we are building our own bodies, our building materials for our own house are the foods we eat and drink. Every month I write about our cells we need a foreman in our own bodies and those foremen are our Redox Molecules.

The reason why we age is because our bodies become less efficient and from our early 20s, we begin to make less Redox Molecules. By the time we are 40 years of age we have lost at least 50% of these impor tant molecules and with each decade we lose 10% of our Redox Molecules in our cells.

What we need to do to help with our ageing process: • A combination of resistance exercises.

• Higher protein intake to keep our muscles strong and active even if you are on a weight loss program.

• Take Redox Cell supplement.

• Remove highly processed carbohydrates because these cause inflammation as we age.

• Get your carbs from dark leafy green veggies and sweet potatoes.

• The bad news is that as we age our bodies and their vital systems become less forgiving. Remove alcohol, processed sugar and trans fats because they will do nothing but increase weight, speed up the aging process and rob us of energy.

Every day we have choices to make, so why not make them good ones?

Supplements are extremely impor tant in this process.

To find out more, contact me either on Facebook, or colette@need4change.com or visit: www.need4change.myasealive.com

by Colette Garside

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Completely Bromsgrove

Have cameras will travel F Now open 5 days a week Mon - Fri 9am-5pm

Are you or a loved one living with dementia, sensory impairment or disability and in need of respite?

Meet others and make new friendships in our friendly and supportive awardwinning centres.

We are open five days a week.

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm.

Come and join us for a whole range of fun activities including sensory games, singing lessons, exercise lessons, art and craft work, pool, beauty therapy, games, gardening, cooking, relaxation sessions and much more

ollowing on Bromsgrove Photographic Society’s successful indoor Winter Season (September to May), at Avoncroft Arts Centre, we have hit the ground running, with the launch of the Summer Season (June to August).

Members are taken hither and yon, cameras at the ready, in the open air. Whereas the Winter Season, included in-house club competitions, inter-club competitions, speakers, model studio sessions, practical nights and more, the Summer Season is very different.

Our Summer Program Officer, has set out a varied outdoor list of locations. Clear guidance to the venue and relevant information is included in the Summer Program, so members can all meet up, chat, compare settings etc, before starting to take photographs. There is always someone to advise novice photographers and it’s a great chance for general chat when walking around the location. It’s a great opportunity to leave the cares of the world behind and be in the moment, in a beautiful and interesting location.

Anyone interested to find out more can check out www.bromsgroveps.com or email bpscontact1@ gmail.com. BPS also have a Facebook and Twitter page.

Tel: 01527 874526

149 Golden Cross Lane, Catshill, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B61 0JZ

Join us....

Our philosophy is simple:

VIP Day Centre Bromsgrove

We source the best produce possible!

From Farmers and Producers who give you AMAZING GRAZING!

Ask our social worker about funding for this service or call 01527 375015

Amphlett Hall, Crown Close, Bromsgrove, B61 8DW | Tel: 01527 375015 email: bromsgrove@vipdaycentre.co.uk Facebook: VIP Day Centre | Twitter: @VIPDayCentre

Head office: 0330 174 0857 www.vipdaycentre.co.uk

Duncombes

The Barn, The Craft Centre, Winyates Centre, Redditch, B98 0LA | Tel: 01527 375014 email: redditch@vipdaycentre.co.uk

Master Butcher

VIP Day Centre Redditch

“Constantly in the pursuit of excellence”

Ask our social worker about funding for this service or call 01527 375014

This advert should be upside down!

Completely Bromsgrove

37

Townsfolk revel in Queen’s

38

Photo by Phil Nokes Completely Bromsgrove

Platinum Jubilee jubilations

Photo by Phil Nokes

Photo by Phil Nokes

Photo by Phil Nokes Completely Bromsgrove

39

HISTORY

Glorious Grafton a fascinating history

G

rafton Manor is, without doubt, one of the most historic locations within our district. It is mentioned in Domesday Book in 1086, in a long list of estates that belonged to Urse d’Abitot, the Sheriff of Worcestershire. At that time Grafton Manor, like Bromsgrove, was part of Feckenham Forest and was subject to special forest laws.

By the 1300s Grafton had come into the possession of the Earl of Warwick. He died in 1367, leaving the manor to his daughter Maud, who married Ralph Stafford, grandson of the Earl of Stafford. Grafton then descended through several generations of the Stafford family. After the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, Henry VII confiscated Grafton and granted it to Sir Gilbert Talbot who had played a decisive role in his victory.

The Talbot family remained at Grafton for the next 300 years. Their staunch Catholic faith led to problems during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I. They were suspected of suppor ting the Gunpowder Plot of 1604, but although the house was searched no charges were brought. The Talbots went up in the world when, in 1617, George Talbot inherited the title Earl of Shrewsbury from a distant cousin.

In 1710, a huge fire tore through Grafton destroying much of the house. A contemporary print shows the western section of the house completely missing and the chapel in the south wing without a roof. The house remained habitable, however, and in 1796 John Joseph Talbot rebuilt the chapel and brought it back into use for Catholic worship.

By the time Charles, 15th Earl of Shrewsbury died in 1827 the Talbots’ estates extended across the country, including Alton Towers in Staffordshire. The last family member to occupy Grafton Manor was his nephew, James Cavendish Talbot, who died that same year.

The 19th and early 20th centuries saw Grafton leased to a series of tenants. One of these was Benjamin Collett, a hop merchant and Member of Parliament, who was a leading light in the social life of the county. He purchased the Whitford estate and became a director of the British Salt and Alkali Company at Stoke Prior, but was later imprisoned for running up huge debts.

In 1918, the Earl of Shrewsbury sold several farms at Grafton to Sir Herber t Austin of the Austin Motor Company; a case of old money selling out to

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new. Grafton Manor itself was bought in the 1930s

by Alfred Murray-Willis, a stockbroker. During the Second World War, Nonington College of Education, Kent, moved in after being evacuated. After the war, Grafton was acquired by the Morris family, who ran it as a care home and later as a hotel and restaurant.

With its ancient chapel, it is now one of the leading wedding venues in the West Midlands.

The Talbots of Grafton Manor is one of the topics being discussed at this year’s Bromsgrove Summer School from July 12th to 14th. The three-day event, organised by the Bromsgrove Society, covers interesting aspects of Bromsgrove history. For more details visit www.bsoc.co.uk/school2022

by Mike Sharpe

Advertisement Feature

The Perfect OXO Family?

L

aura Hawkins from Alvechurch Legal explores the problems faced by Lynda Bellingham’s family after her death.

When actress Lynda Bellingham died in 2014, her sons were left an unexpected nightmare.

Lynda and her husband, Michael, made Mirror Wills, in which Lynda left her entire estate to her third husband, expecting him to leave her share of their combined assets to her sons on his death.

“We both wrote wills as a married couple and they mirrored each other in how we would leave our estate.” admitted Michael.

Lynda will undoubtedly have felt, that she could trust her husband to carry out her wishes and provide for her sons. But, it turns out that her trust was misplaced. What actually followed, was a very public dispute between Lynda’s husband and her sons…

Michael decided to re-write his own Will, disinheriting them altogether and leaving everything to his own children.

“I have re-written the will and they

(Lynda’s Sons) will get nothing from me.”

Michael told the Daily Mail.

Can Michael do that?

In a word: yes. Having executed Mirror Wills, Lynda passed all her assets to Michael when she died. His promise to look after her sons was never legally enforceable. Lynda’s assets are now Michael’s to do with as he wishes. There is nothing in law to prevent Michael going back on his promise and re-writing his earlier Will.

Can this be prevented?

Sadly, these types of disputes are common amongst families, but they are preventable.

Proper ty Protection Wills could have been set up to safeguard her proper ties for both her husband and her sons.

Estate planning is complicated. This is why it is important you speak to someone like Laura from Alvechurch Legal Services who specialises in offering sound advice.

This would have protected her son’s inheritance, whilst ensuring that Michael had somewhere to live for the rest of his life

If you would like to discuss updating your Wills, you can contact Alvechurch Legal Services on 0121 445 3307 or email laura@alvechurchlegal.co.uk Or visit their website at www.alvechurchlegal.co.uk

An Independent Family Owned Funeral Directors

THOMAS BROTHERS Family owned funeral homes in Redditch, Wythall, Alvechurch, Bromsgrove & Alcester.

We provide a friendly, dignified service paying special attention to detail.

REDDITCH • BROMSGROVE 01527 547777 01527 831700 WYTHALL • ALVECHURCH • ALCESTER 01564 822001 0121 445 3422 01789 330939

“A family concern”

www.thomasbrothers.co.uk email: admin@thomasbrothers.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

41

Celebrating 125 years of B

lue Cross is celebrating 125 years of helping pets in 2022. The charity, which has an animal rehoming centre at Catshill near Bromsgrove, was originally called Our Dumb Friends’ League (ODFL) and was formed in 1897.

A group of animal lovers got together to help the plight of working horses across London, providing water and oat troughs across the city. ODFL also provided ‘trace horses’ to help smaller and weaker working horse carrying heavy loads up hills.

The first ever medal for people who went to the extra mile to help pets, was presented in 1902. Gold, silver and bronze medals were handed out along with special certificates. In 1940 the first blue cross medal to animals was given to a dog called La Cloche who rescued a French sailor, who could not swim, from the English Channel by dragging him to a safety raft.

WWI soldier leads horse and dog

The name ‘Blue Cross’ was first used in 1912, when ODFL began helping animals involved in conflict. A flag bearing a blue cross on a white background was used on the field of battle to show help for injured animals, rather than the red cross which supported injured humans.

Horses were a major part of any army. Soldiers and messengers rode them, and they carried guns and equipment when there were no roads or armies over mountains or moorland. Horses also pulled the gun carriages, moving big guns from place to place in the battle fields. Millions of horses were used by all sides during World War One. When World War One broke out in 1914, ODFL set up hospitals near the battlefields in Belgium and France for horses which had been injured. Throughout

WWI injured horse being loaded onto horse ambulance

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Completely Bromsgrove

La Cloche received the first animal medal

the war, they supplied essential materials and drugs for horses, free of charge. Equipment ranged from

helping our best friends syringes and bandages to humane ways to put an injured horse to sleep. Kits also included a portable forge for shoeing, fringe nets to keep flies from horses in summer to a veterinary tooth rasp. The ‘Blue Cross Veterinary Chests’ were very popular. They contained a carefully selected supply of the instruments, bandages and rugs most frequently needed.

Dogs were also used in battle as messengers, and to carry first aid equipment in packages on their backs. In 1917 the Blue Cross Fund was asked to take over the veterinary care of the 18,000 war dogs used extensively by the French Army.

Victoria Animal Hospital early 20th century

Treating pets by candlelight at Victoria Animal Hospital in the Blitz

Many soldiers adopted dogs in the countries where they were fighting. When the time came for their return to Britain they could not afford the quarantine fees - dogs had to be in quarantine for six months - and they appealed to ODFL who took over kennels in South London as a dog quarantine station. As well as saving many dogs from being destroyed it also helped to stop soldiers smuggling dogs into the country, which could have brought rabies and other diseases into Britain.

During World War Two it was animals at home who suffered. During the Blitz in 1940 pet cats and dogs were often left in abandoned or trapped in bombed houses without food or water. ODFL and volunteers rescued these pets and if injured, they were treated at the Victoria Animal Hospital in Central London where staff worked day and night to treat sick, injured and frightened animals. During the blackout pets were treated by candlelight.

The quarantine kennels were put into use once again with grateful soldiers being reunited with their pets. ODFL cared for pets of soldiers when they were posted overseas when there was nowhere else for their beloved animals to go. The shelter also provided quarantine to refugees.

In 1958, the name of the appeal fund became more widely known than ODFL and the league officially changed its name to The Blue Cross. In 2012 this changed to simply Blue Cross.

Visit www.bluecross.org.uk/125-years-ofblue-cross to find out more about the charity’s history.

Dog rescue during the Blitz

Completely Bromsgrove

43

Bromsgrove Shedders support the community I

t has been a busy few months for Age UK BRWF’s Bromsgrove Men In Sheds, with the Shedders being involved in several community projects and more in the pipeline.

May saw the installation of a new Community Book Box, made by the Shedders, in Stoke Prior. The Book Box was the idea of local resident Jo Till.

Jo said: “I star ted the Book Box during lockdown to help the village with a bit of community spirit when everywhere was closed. It started with one plastic box that grew to two very quickly. It was a borrow or keep idea with any monies donated being donated to St Michael’s Church.

“It really took off and I thought that it would be wonderful to have something more permanent and better looking than the plastic boxes and Bromsgrove Men in Sheds were on hand to help make that happen.”

The response on social media since the unveiling of the new Book Box has been fantastic and it is now being visited regularly by people from all over the village.

The Shedders also responded to The Book Box a recent challenge from Sidemoor Pre-school for a set of traffic lights. Much to the amazement and excitement of the children a fully working set of lights was recently delivered.

Manager Toni Cooke said: “Thank you so much for the traffic lights, they are brilliant. I know the children will really enjoy playing with them on their bikes and also learning about road safety. The staff are already

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talking about painting road markings and a zebra crossing to the playground to enable the children to extend their play.”’

Over the last couple of years we have been reminded of the impor tance of social connection and a sense of belonging. Initiatives such as Bromsgrove Men In Sheds are such an impor tant par t of our communities. Not only does the Shed suppor t individuals by providing friendship, a sense of purpose and helping to prevent and tackle loneliness and social isolation but, as these projects show, the Shed also benefits the wider community.

The Shedders are planning another Community Open Day on Saturday, September 10th to help raise awareness of, and suppor t for, Bromsgrove Men In Sheds, but if there is anybody interested in joining the Shed, just pop along to Unit One, Metal & Ores Industrial Estate, B60 4JZ (Monday to Thursday, 10am to 2pm) for a chat and a cuppa!

Whilst the Shed is suppor ting the community, it needs the suppor t of the community to ensure that it can continue. For more information about how you can suppor t the Shed, including details of its annual Shed Share Sponsorship Scheme, please contact Jo Hughes at Age UK BRWF on 01527 868855 or email jo.hughes@ageukbrwf.org.uk

Charity mourns devoted driver and booking clerk Eddie B

romsgrove Minibus Appeal has operated as a charity in the Bromsgrove area since 1985, providing transport for residents of the local care homes and for specialist groups such as Sight Concern and lunch clubs.

It is with much sadness that the charity learned of the death of Edwin (Eddie) Mowbray at the age of 80.

Eddie joined the Bromsgrove Minibus Appeal, which then operated as Bromsgrove Minibus for the Elderly, as a volunteer driver when he retired from full time work in 2007. He drove for many of the local care homes, taking residents on days out to places of interest or for lunch in local hostelries. He was very popular with the residents, helping when he could to enhance their experience and enjoyment of the outings.

When Eddie began suffering ill health, and he was no longer able to drive a minibus, he became the booking clerk where he continued to support both the charity and its passengers. He was as interested in the person on the ‘phone making a booking as much as he was in providing the transport service – so much so, that a call could easily last half an hour.

01527 876074, TheEddieBus@gmail.com or via the website: www.theeddiebus.org.uk The new minibus may be driven by anyone with a car licence, after a short period of familiarisation with other volunteer drivers.

In 2019 the minibus in use at the time was beginning to be unreliable. Eddie was key in helping to raise funds for a replacement minibus. He “shook the bucket” at Morrisons and helped with fundraising through Waitrose and Co-op.

When the new minibus was obtained, it was considered that the name (Bromsgrove Minibus for the Elderly) was not appropriate for the 21st century and it was decided to call the new vehicle The EDDIE Bus (Everyday Drives for Disabled, Independent and Elderly). Eddie continued as booking clerk until his health failed to such an extent that he was hospitalised shortly before Easter.

Eddie was in hospital for nearly two months, but his illnesses took their toll and he died in hospital soon after his 80th birthday. He will be much missed by the various care homes in the area and their residents, but his name will continue as The EDDIE Bus. If, like Eddie, you are recently retired and would like to volunteer as a driver (as much or as little as you wish) or as the booking clerk, contact The EDDIE Bus on

Completely Bromsgrove

45

Discover Bromsgrove on foot

B

romsgrove residents are invited to put their best foot forward and join in a selection of free health walks across the District.

Each week the walks, led by trained volunteers, offer improved health, fitness and well-being as well as the opportunity to make new friends.

Bromsgrove District Councillor Michael Thompson, whose portfolio covers Leisure, said: “Our District has some wonderful walks and views and this programme allows residents to discover what’s on their doorstep as well as keeping fit and making new friends.”

Three new walks to be added to the list are: Blackwell (a Gentle Walk) Wednesdays, 10.30am. Meet opposite St Catherine’s Church Oakalls and Harwood Park Wednesdays, 2pm, Meet at play area

Stoke Heath Thursdays, 10.30am, meet at Stoke Heath Recreation Ground Existing walks include: Bromsgrove Sanders Park Monday 10am meet by the kiosk Lickey End Recreation Ground Tuesdays 10am – meet by the car park Rubery Library Health Walks Thursdays 10am

Wythall Wanderers Wednesdays 2pm – meet Wythall Park car park If you fancy a stroll then just turn up. Click on www.bromsgrove. gov.uk and search ‘Bromsgrove health walks’ for more details.

Canvass emails are coming

A

s Bromsgrove District Council’s annual electoral canvass begins for 2022 residents are being asked to look out for an email version of this year’s canvass letter.

As par t of the annual review of the electoral register the district council will be encouraging residents to check that their information is up to date using the online process in the first instance.

From Friday (June 24) branded emails from Bromsgrove District and Redditch Borough Electoral Shared Services will be sent out to residents for whom the council holds an email address, with instructions as to how to check, confirm and/or change their details online.

The emails will come from bromsgrove.and.redditch. electoral.shared.services@notifications.service.gov.uk.

For anyone who is not on the council’s email database or doesn’t receive the initial email, further correspondence will go out in the traditional way via the post over the next few weeks.

Darren Whitney, Electoral Services Manager for Bromsgrove District Council, said: “We want to make sure that residents are aware that this is not a scam email and that this is the quickest and easiest way for people to update their details and means that we do not have to post out a form to them.

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Completely Bromsgrove

“Every year we’re required to conduct a canvass that helps keep the electoral register correct. Many people might not realise that simply replying to it saves real money. When people don’t reply, the council are required to send out reminder letters, and even employ people to knock on doors, which means the cost goes up.”

“This year it’s even easier to respond than ever, so check your inboxes, check your details and help us save taxpayers money.”

Residents are reminded to stay alert when it comes to phishing, scam or spam emails. The council will never ask for your bank or other personal details via email. If in doubt, contact our Electoral Services team on 01527 881421.

While you must be on the Electoral Register to be able to vote, the canvass communication is not a registration form to vote. To register to vote, go to www.gov.uk/ register-to-vote Unregistered people are not eligible to vote in any election or referendum.

To find out more about the Electoral Register visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/elections

Tired station offers less than warm welcome

B

romsgrove railway station is an important gateway to Bromsgrove and should offer a welcome to visitors to the town and district, yet currently it does not do so.

Par t of the problem is that it is partly owned by the West Midlands Rail Executive in Birmingham and Worcestershire County Council, whose HQ is in Worcester, so it is out of sight, out of mind as far as they are concerned, and Bromsgrove District Council has no skin in the game in the running of this important driver of the local economy.

As a result, there has been virtually no investment in the station since it re-opened after a major relocation in July 2016, six years ago.

Here is Bromsgrove and Redditch Rail User Partnership’s schedule of desired improvements.

www.bromsgroverail.org.uk Ten months on, this has not been installed and the county council has not replied to questions from BARRUP as to when it will be.

There is a taxi rank, but it is not immediately obvious where it is, and there are no phone numbers shown for visitors to call for a cab. Also, the signage as to how to walk or cycle from the station to the town centre is unclear.

Bromsgrove

In September last year, the county council announced that it was going to install a smart hub bus shelter at the station. This would feature real time passenger information and a large interactive display, giving visitors arriving at the station the information they need for their onward journeys and, in particular, which buses on the four services departing from the station are going to the town centre.

There is a drop off area in front of the station, but there is not an area for cars waiting to collect people arriving by train. As a result, the cars wait in the bus shelter areas, causing congestion at busy times.

The last two information boards as visitors leave the station should be used to promote Bromsgrove and the district as a day and shor t stay visitor destination, for example for the Bromsgrove Festival et al, generating revenue for the local economy.

BARRUP is campaigning vigorously for these essential improvements to

by Nick Taylor be implemented.

Completely Bromsgrove

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New Sportage T-GDi T

hose in the know are aware that Kia’s Sportage is one of the best in its class and pronounce positive verdicts on its range of outstanding and appealing features. From the respect-inducing styling to its secure ride and sweet economy, the new fifth generation Sportage crosses the ‘T’ of the crossover formula even more successfully than before.

A top class motor in other words, befitting those lucky aficionados who like driving in style and looking stylish as they drive. No wonder the Sportage is Kia’s best-selling model. Now the new look takes it to even greater heights.

As I put the £30,975 ‘3’ specification 1.6 petrol 148bhp, six speed manual two-wheel drive variant through its paces, I was never less impressed by its ‘even better than before’ road manners, its constant acts of courtesy to driver and passenger and its confidence-inspiring commitment in everything it does to dealing out the best possible hand.

There’s nothing to beat a car that ticks all the boxes and boxes the ears of the opposition, making catch-up clowns of them all. You have to admit the New Sportage makes sense.

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Completely Bromsgrove

You want a car that doesn’t crowd you in; a car that demands deference yet deflects envy; a car that’s compact enough for nimbleness and yet capacious enough for proper comfort; a car that pursues the horizon with a no-compromise poise and assurance, belying the crossover tag and its implicit engagement with a plethora of sometimes contradictory imperatives. The Sportage is all these and more.

Versatility is the key. A boulevard cruiser for Chelsea? A commuting express? The Sportage is the way to go because it’s now bigger inside, better quality inside, has more boot space, feels more refined, ‘drives’ better...in fact it has taken a quantum leap forward and feels a much better car - and that is quite an achievement when it was already so good.

DRIVE TIME

- with kudos to Kia! Smooth and silent at tickover, the 148 bhp 1.6 T-GDi petrol revs willingly and pulls like a train without having to overuse the light and slick six speed gearbox - all the way to about 115mph. And yet you get good economy too. Between 45mpg and 50 mpg was easily achieved.

This Sportage is a grand touring generalissimo that does most things well. So comfortable in its own skin, so assured in its capabilities, so confidence-inspiring in its certainty that drudgery is taken out of driving.

Its delight on the road resides in noticeably improved handling and ride. At the wheel one is struck by the balanced feel, ease of control and relaxed performance. Ergonomics are good and there’s a ‘solid all round’ feeling.

Kia needs no reminding that theirs is a name to be reckoned with - and with this in mind one knows that their products are just that little bit more considered. You get a lot of car for

your money and the bonding process is rapidly completed so that before you know it you have come to regard the Sportage as a member of the family. If you plough your money into a New Sportage, furrowed brows will be a thing of the past.

A lift given to a pal of the Arthur Daley persuasion whose vehicle had broken down and didn’t have that reassuring Kia seven-year warranty, brought forth “What’s this then?” as he settled in comfortably.

‘Reliable Reg Robinson’. was a believer in the credo that no decent automobile was ever manufactured a) outside Britain, b) after 1966. Had he not been bald he would still be sporting a Beatle fringe. Inflexible.

Suffice it to say that he was, metaphorically of course, shaken by the ride and stirred to exclaim “Not a bad car this.” No higher praise ever issued from his lips. Confirmation indeed that the new Kia Sportage is spot on.

by Syd Taylor Completely Bromsgrove

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Enjoy six motoring shows at the British Motor Museum in July

T

he British Motor Museum will be hosting six shows in July including the Wythall Busfest on July 2nd, the Electric Vehicle Festival on July 3rd, the BMC & Leyland Show on July 10th, the Old Ford Rally and Rootes Heritage Day, both on July 17th, & the Big MINI show on July 24th.

The Wythall Busfest is arranged in partnership with the Transpor t Museum Wythall and will feature restored, vintage, and modern buses and coaches.

Fuzz Townshend from Car SOS will open the show which will also celebrate 50 years of the Leyland National Bus and National Express Coaches.

The Electric Vehicles Festival, which began in 2019, will give visitors the oppor tunity to see hundreds of electric vehicles in one place. All owners of fully electric vehicles are welcome to join the show and display their vehicles. The festival is also the perfect place for those thinking about going electric with an array of different makes and models on display.

The BMC & Leyland Show will feature a huge range of British marques that were produced by the British Motor Corporation, British Leyland and The Rover Group. Hundreds of vehicles will be lined up outside the Museum from Minis and Morris Minors, to the larger Rover 800s, Montegos and Maestros as well as vans and lorries. 2022 marks 60 years of the Austin/Morris 1100/1300 and the organisers are appealing for owners of those makes to come along and display their cars. The organisers will also be welcoming the TR Drivers Club who hold their National Rally the day before the show.

The Old Ford Rally will enable fans to see around 400 classic Fords, many of which are aged between

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Completely Bromsgrove

50 and 100 years old. Visitors can see a huge range from Model Ts to the cars of the pre-war austerity years as well as the more luxurious post-war Zephyrs, Zodiacs and Granadas.

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Completely Bromsgrove

51

Two days of fun and fundraising R

oll up, roll up for Bromsgrove Carnival, which will be held over two days on July 15 and 16.

The festivities start with Friday night cinema in Sanders Park plus local street food vendors and beverages. The film and time are to be confirmed but suggestions are welcome.

Saturday will welcome a full day of family fun in the park including food and drink and live music. Other attractions will include a fairground, the carnival procession through the heart of the town at 12pm and the famous Timberhonger 10K race at 6pm.

The 10K course is accurately measured with a course cer tificate. It is a picturesque but challenging route with a number of testing hills and is suitable for first timers and experienced runners alike. The route starts at the Bromsgrove end of Timberhonger Lane then snakes its way down Timberhonger Lane for approximately 3K before doing two 2K loops round Berry Lane and Newhouse Lane, then returning up Timberhonger Lane to Sanders Park. The race finishes with a run across the back field of the park to the finishing line near the front car park. All roads will be closed to traffic for the duration of the race.

The new 5K course may be shorter but it is no less of a challenge with three hills in three miles. Part of the course

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is off road on marked paths linking Monsieur Hall’s Lane to Warridge Lodge Farm so officially it is a multi-terrain race but 4K is on tarmac.

The Children’s Challenge at 5pm is an unmeasured course of approximately 800m for the under eights and 1500m for under 11s held entirely within Sanders Park.

The carnival procession will follow its usual route from North Bromsgrove High School, down School Drive, right on to Stratford Road, left at the traffic lights onto Market Street, down to the mini roundabout by Waitrose and then right onto Kidderminster Road, finishing just outside Sanders Park.

This year’s theme is Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games with mostly schools and local charities decorating lorries in the style of countries taking part in this year’s event.

Bromsgrove Carnival is a free event, but organisers are asking for donations to help raise as much as they can for local charities.

Proceeds raised will go to three chosen charities, The Basement Project, Sense and Bromsgrove District Scouts.

For further information, visit Bromsgrove Carnival’s page on Facebook, head to @ carnivalfun on Twitter or email Adam@ bromsgrovecarnival.org

Broadcaster Pat reflects on his sporting life

F

ollowing on from its successful event in May, when the political commentator, Steve Richards, gave a packed audience his thoughts on reflections on leadership, as its contribution to the Bromsgrove Festival WORDS welcomes sports journalist and broadcaster Pat Murphy to talk about “This Sporting Life”.

The event will take place at Bromsgrove Rugby Club (B60 3DH) on Thursday, July 14th at 7.30pm.

Pat has spent a lifetime reporting on cricket and football for BBC Radio, as well as producing more than 40 books with legends including Ian Botham, Andrew Flintoff and the late Bob Willis.

He has a fund of stories from, and insights into the world of spor ts broadcasting - for thright, funny, entertaining and from the various horses’ mouths.

You can read more about Pat’s

distinguished career with the BBC on his website: www.patmurphy-presents.co.uk and follow him on Twitter @ patmurphybbc Tickets priced at £10 are available via the Ticket Source Website www.ticketsource.co.uk (type “This Sporting Life - Pat Murphy” into the search bar) - or from WORDS, Sycamore House, Rigby Hall, Rigby Lane, Bromsgrove, B60 2EW. Please make cheques payable to WORDS and include your postal and email addresses.

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53

Funtopia returns to Arrow Valley Park

F

untopia - the big day out for little kids - is returning to Arrow Valley Park, Redditch, from 11am to 5pm on Saturday, July 2 and Tuesday, August 11.

The first visit to Redditch was on May 1 and despite wet weather it was successful and well received.

sensory toys and activities and the management team are fully trained in autism acceptance.

A fantastic fun-packed event designed specifically for under 10s, Funtopia is full of high energy inflatables, sumo suits, Nerf wars, driving school, an under fives area, crafty corner, role play areas, circus skills, fun workshops and more.

As well as the Funtopia zone, there shall also be a food court with menus to suit every taste, independent artisan and trade stalls, kid’s games, and pay-per-go rides.

It’s not just for kids as grown ups can have a bounce with their little ones on the parents and tots castle, race them on the bungee run or get some payback in Nerf wars.

Funtopia offers unlimited play so when you’ve bought your wristband you can play on the activities as many times as you like. Some activities have height and age restrictions attached.

The organisers want Funtopia to be as inclusive for everyone as they possibly can, which is why the event is now autism friendly. There are queue jump passes available with proof of eligibility, a quiet area,

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Company owner Sarah Green said: “This year Funtopia is bigger than ever. We’ve added new activities and role play areas such as our hairdressing salon and kids’ construction zone, as well as additional inflatables and workshops. I want every child to be able to enjoy Funtopia and create family memories.”

All wristbands can be purchased on the gate and there’s no need to book. Sales open at 10.30am every event day. Wristbands are priced at: Under 90cm free, over 90cm £10 and adults £2.50.

Find out more about Funtopia by visiting www.facebook.com/funtopiauk

Feline charm offensive with all-star cast

T

his month’s offering at The FeckenOdeon Cinema Society in Feckenham on Friday, July 15th at 8pm is The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, rated 12A. Louis Wain was many things during his incredible life: artist, inventor, entrepreneur and caretaker. After adopting a stray kitten, he went on to paint the extraordinary images of cats that made him world famous.

We follow the incredible adventures of this inspiring, unsung hero, as he seeks to unlock the “electrical” mysteries of the world in this whimsical delight of a film starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Claire Foy and Olivia Colman.

A hundred-plus years before cute cats became ubiquitous, the work of the artist Louis Wain was the advance guard in a feline charm offensive. His playful, anthropomorphised illustrations of grinning kittens took Victorian society by storm.

This suitably eccentric biopic from director Will Sharpe, written with Simon

Stephenson, takes Wain’s art as an initial visual key, but goes further, using everything from a heightened palette to woozy Dutch camera angles to shimmering auras to convey Wain’s unsteady mental state.

This thoroughly charming film is almost as eccentric as Mr Wain himself. Taika Waititi and Nick Cave are also among the cast in this amiable and enjoyable comedic life story.

The FeckenOdeon is Feckenham’s community cinema based at Feckenham Village Hall, High Street, Feckenham, B96 6HN.Tickets for all FeckenOdeon films can be booked online through www.feckenodeon.co.uk, by phone on 0333 666 3366 or in person at The Rose & Crown and The Village Shop in Feckenham.

SUMMER ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS REGI

Have a go at sports, swimming, crafts, dance, art, cookery and more.

We are delighted to be running our fun sports and activities day camps throughout the Summer holidays from Monday 2nd July - Friday 26th August For information and to book a place, please contact activities@bromsgrove-school.co.uk

Enjoy our extensive sports facilities, learn some new skills, make friends and have fun.

8.30am - 5.30pm daily £35 per day with hot lunch included

01527 579679 ext 616

Completely Bromsgrove

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Outdoor theatre?

-oh yes it is!

H

anbury Hall is hosting four outdoor theatre productions this summer so grab a picnic, a rug and chairs and enjoy some culture in a stunning setting.

First up is Heartbreak Productions’ presentation of David Walliams’ Awful Auntie on Saturday, July 16th from 7pm to 9pm.

The new playground at the Saxby Hall Orphanage is finally complete.

The orphanage was founded by Stella Saxby. Her parents were killed in a car crash in 1933, leaving her an orphan, all alone with her Awful Auntie. Aunt Alberta and her best friend Wagner, a vicious Bavarian owl, tried everything they could to torment Stella into signing over the deed to Saxby Hall.

But Stella, with the help of her friend Soot, fought off Aunt Alberta, saved Saxby Hall, and gifted the beautiful hall to be used as an orphanage. Awful Auntie is a truly thrilling tale. Owls, ghosts, chases, escapes, motorcycle rides, and tiddlywinks all fill Stella’s days as she evades her menacing aunt and saves the family home.

Using the backdrop of a carnival, we follow our favourite Victorian heroine through her many ordeals.

Watch her escape from her aunt’s house, her school, the fire, the moors, and finally find safety with her true love, Mr Rochester.

Completing the programme on Saturday, August 20th from 7pm to 9.30pm will be Illyria Theatre’s production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance.

Wendy Darling is certain she saw the face of a boy at her bedroom window three floors up yet no-one believes her. Who can blame her when she agrees to fly away to the idyllic Neverland with him but is it as perfect as it seems or will the evil Captain Hook and his band of pirates kill Peter and rule over Neverland?

Frederick, apprenticed to the pirates since a child, learns that he was born in a leap year on February 29th, and that he is contracted to the Pirate King until his 21st birthday, not his 21st year. With only the inept Penzance constabulary to protect him, how will he resist being forced to endure a life of crime until he is 84 and will his sweetheart, Mabel, wait for him that long? Performed by a six strong cast of actor/singers, The Pirates of Penzance gets the complete Illyria treatment.

Despite the reduction in scale not a single word from WS Gilbert’s libretto is cut, nor a single note or harmony from Sir Arthur Sullivan’s score unsung.

Heartbreak Productions return on Saturday, August 13th from 7pm to

For more details and to book, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hanbury-hall

On Friday, July 29th from 7pm to 9pm Illyria Theatre will be presenting their version of J.M Barrie’s Peter Pan.

56

9.10pm with their version of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre.

Completely Bromsgrove

www.bromsgrove festival.co.uk

Bromsgrove Festival

2022 24th June to 24th July

Bromsgrove Festival

Pick up a brochure at Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove library and other community venues, or visit our website

Completely Bromsgrove

57

Enjoy a good movie and great music on a lazy summer evening S

it back and relax as Fairfield Flicks screens Little Women on Sunday, July 10th at 7.30pm. An adaptation of the book of the same name, this American coming-of-age period drama film is written and directed by Greta Gerwig and stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh and Meryl Streep.

In 19th century Massachusetts, with their father away serving in the Civil War, the women of the March family, the loving matriarch, Marmee, and her four daughters, Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth, are left all alone to fend for themselves. Faced with genteel pover ty, the fledgeling author, Jo March, is struggling to make a name for herself in male-dominated New York City; considerate Meg is now married, and the artistically inclined, Amy, is in Paris with their affluent Aunt March.

However, the news of talented Beth’s illness will reunite the sisters under the same roof. But, more than anything in the world, much to the disappointment of the handsome next-door neighbour, Theodore “Laurie” Laurence - the fiercely independent Jo yearns for freedom. Must all stories end with a wedding?

Little Women

Anne-Marie Allen will be taking the stage at Fairfield Village Hall when she performs live on Saturday, July 16th at 8pm. A Birmingham-based singer-songwriter, she has a distinct vocal tone which captivates audiences who enjoy soul, funk, folk, and blues with a hint of tribal, punk, and psychedelic.

Anne-Marie’s unique musical style does not confine itself to one specific genre. Her lyrics are honest about the human condition, yet her music has an upbeat vibe to keep audiences smiling. Her songs tell stories of freedom, capitalism, and human connection, presenting a lucid lyrical landscape with percussive guitar rhythms.

Over the years Anne-Marie has collaborated with a wide range of artists, DJs, producers, and MCs, performing gigs in the UK and abroad across various venues in a professional capacity. She is currently performing her gigs with Dominic James Hyde on guitar, occasional brass, and wind sections.

Fairfield Flicks is located at Fairfield Village Hall (B61 9LZ) and there is free parking and a licenced bar.

For information and advanced tickets for all Fairfield Flicks events visit www.fairfieldflicks.org.uk

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All Lyn’s own work on view at library B

romsgrove ar tist Lyn Sharp is exhibiting her work in Droitwich Spa Library’s gallery room until July 14.

During lockdown, Lyn has been prolific and created lots of exciting ar twork from needlefelting to collage, watercolour and acrylics so this is a great oppor tunity to view her work and is well wor th a visit.

When Completely Bromsgrove spoke to Lyn, she said that over the past two years exhibitions have been limited due to the pandemic and it’s great for her to be back out there again.

Lyn is exhibiting more than 30 pieces, which will all be on sale at competitive prices due to the quantity of work she has produced during this time.

Everyone is welcome to visit the exhibition and enjoy this local talented ar tist’s work.

For new Library opening hours please visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/ directory_record/21/droitwich_spa_ library

Completely Bromsgrove

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Two Croft XIs eye promotion prize

W

ith one game to go until the halfway point of the season, Avoncroft CC have 2 teams with their eyes on a promotion battle.

The First XI, having narrowly avoided relegation last season, have found a new lease of life this year and find themselves in the midst of a five game unbeaten run.

Success on the pitch has been built around a series of strong performances with the bat with Dan Elliott (472 runs at 79), Duncan Roke (341 runs at 114) and Josh Cound (341 runs at 43) leading the way.

in his first game back after over a month away, was a welcome boost to a batting line up that has struggled to get going this year. Bowling performances have also been a bit hit and miss, although a special mention should go to 14-year-old Ben Huxley, who has already taken 18 wickets this season, taking to Second XI cricket like a duck to water.

In the field, Croft look a different team to the one that struggled in 2021. With energy and commitment from the fielders backing up a deep collection of bowling options, Croft have continually performed strongly. Alex Richardson tops the wickets tally with 13, but it’s also been positive to see the impact of Croft’s junior players, with Matt Athey and Rohan Levy both performing strongly as they transition into First XI cricket.

The Sunday XI finally got off the mark with their first win of the season, following a series of tough games for Croft’s youthful friendly XI. Captain Paul Athey has anchored the batting, with two centuries to date while, from a bowling perspective, Ben Athey leads the way with seven wickets.

The Third XI has surpassed all expectations to date, and currently sit at the top of Division 10 (East) with six games to go. Croft’s success has been driven by a series of fine performances from their younger players; Joe Neeson leads the batting standings with 209 runs at 42, with both Callum Hooper and Oli Bellizia also scoring their first 50s in senior cricket. With the ball, the bowling attack has been lead superbly by three under 13 players – Hooper, Ben Athey and Pete Smith.

The Second XI have found the going tougher in Division Nine (Central), with two wins and five defeats contributing to a league position of eighth. The return of Chris Pitt, who stroked his way to 138 against Harborne

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Whilst Croft enjoy their exploits on the pitch, 2022 also marks the club’s 75th anniversary, giving the oppor tunity for celebration off the pitch as well. Much of the celebration is centred around the weekend of July 9th and 10th – festivities star t with a President’s XI vs Chairman’s XI game on Thursday evening, followed by a jazz and beer festival on the Friday and culminating in a Club KO competition on Sunday.

As par t of the celebrations, Croft will be looking to celebrate the commitment of a number of long-standing club stalwar ts, past and present, with a series of lifetime achievement awards – a fitting way to acknowledge those unsung heroes that keep village cricket afloat.

by Paul Athey

All change as Sporting prepare for new season F End of a Disappointing Season for Bromsgrove Sporting

Following a disappointing 2021/2 season for Bromsgrove Sporting, as might be the way.

ollowing a disappointing 2021-2 changes are on the way.

Firstly a new manager has been appointed. Thomas Baillie now occupies that p Smith and Steve Walker. All three have masses of experience both as players a season for Bromsgrove Sporting, brought success to a number of teams includingnumerous Tamworth, Stratford Town, Ke

Sadly a number players have left the club that include Josh Quaynor and Natha appearances) but several have had their services retained. Fan favourites Tom agreed to continue at the Victoria Ground.

Thomas Baillie has been appointed the new manager have committed to the next campaign as have 'keepers Ollie Taylor and Aaron and he will be assisted by Gaz Smith and Steve newGoddard players have also beenagreed recruited for theatseason HomerSeveral and Jordan to continue the Victoria Groun

Walker. All three have masses of experience both as start onplayers Augusthave 6th been but before that willstart geton in 6th August bu Several new recruited forSporting the season players and coaches. Between them they have brought some practice with the followingfriendlies pre-season friendlies: practice with the following pre-season that have been arranged: success to a number of teams including Tamworth, Saturday 09-July 3:00 p.m. Away Gresley Rovers Stratford Town, Kettering Town and Coalville Town.

Sadly a number of players have left the club including Josh Quaynor and Nathan Hayward (who both made over 100 appearances) but several have had their services retained. Fan favourites Tom Taylor, Mike McGrath and Miro Pais have committed to the next campaign as have ‘keepers Ollie Taylor and Aaron Clayton. Dom Perkins, Matt Barnes-Homer and Jordan Goddard have also

Tuesday

12-July

7:45 p.m.

Away

Tividale

Saturday

16-July

3:00 p.m.

Away

Sporting Khalsa

Tuesday

19-July

7:45 p.m.

Home

Kidderminster Harriers

Saturday

23-July

3:00 p.m.

Home

Hemel Hempstead

Tuesday

26-July

7:45 p.m.

Away

Stourport Swifts

Saturday

30-July

3:00 p.m.

Home

Bedworth United

The League fixtures are expected sometime in July.

The League fixtures are expected to be released sometime this month.

Sporting are also beefing up their team off the pitch with former assistant manager Andy Mason taking on the role as football development manager.

Andy will act as a bridge to the Colts outfit and work on closing the gap between the under 18s and the first team by looking at setting up an academy and an under 23s team in the next 12 months.

After having successful seasons, the women’s and veterans’ teams are enjoying a break but recruiting for next season.

There is no football currently at the Victoria Ground but plenty of work going on with pitch and ground improvements including a new shelter for fans with disabilities. However, enquiries can still be sent to hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

by Phil Baker

The www.bromsgrovesporting.

Sporting arewebsite also beefing up their team off the pitch with former assistant man co.uk continues to be updated with information as the Club's Football Development Manager.

Andy with act as a bridge to the gap between thenew under 18s and the first team by looking at setting up an acad including signings. next 12 months.

After having successful seasons, the women's and veterans' teams are enjoyin season.

There is no football currently at the Victoria Ground but plenty or work going o improvements including a new shelter for fans with disabilities. However enqu hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk. The web site, www.bromsgrovesporting.co. information about the club including new signings.

The new boss Thomas Baillie

Photos by Chris Jepson Completely Bromsgrove

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