Completely Bromsgrove issue 48 February 23

In the first issue of the New Year, Bromsgrove District Council are making residents aged over 18 aware that they will require ID to be able to vote in the forthcoming May elections. Turn to page 10 to find out more.

On Friday, February 8, Stuart Porter will be appearing in the popular Quest programme Salvage Hunters. Head to page 33 where you can read about Stuart, a local resident with a thriving car cleaning business.

Also in this issue, Bromsgrove Sporting pay tribute to former player Cody Fisher who tragically and prematurely lost his life on Boxing Day.

As always, we hope you enjoy the latest issue of your favourite community magazine and remember folks, keep it local!

Winterfold House School ranked as a top five Catholic Prep School

Winterfold House School is delighted to have been ranked as one of the top five Catholic Prep Schools in the country: from approximately 80 such Schools in the UK.

The Catholic Herald who undertook this survey says of the School: “Winterfold House School is an outstanding smaller Prep School with a long and peripatetic Catholic heritage”. It describes the school as an established bastion of Catholic primary education which has for decades been sending children to the best schools in the country.

This excellent ranking is based upon Winterfold’s academic performance and pastoral care.

The article in the Catholic Herald also recognises the use of technology, development of Forest School, sports facilities

and extra-curricular activities that are offered. They also mention the range of activities that enhance the children’s education at Winterfold. It acknowledges Winterfold as being part of the Bromsgrove School family, which opens more opportunities for the Winterfold community.

The Headmistress, Denise Toms has stated: “This achievement is due to the strength of community within the school, the excellent teaching and care which the children receive and the embodiment of our ethos allowing the children to grow in a happy environment”.

email: kiran.chaggar-smith@berkleycaregroup.co.uk

Be who you’ve always been... one of the lads

At Chandler Court care home being one of the lads doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home.

Award winning, person-centred care for over 40 years.

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one call 01527 958312 .

Trusted to care.

Chandler Court care home

Bromsgrove careuk.com/chandler-court

Quality care in a place you can call home

At Chandler Court, Care UK’s ‘Good’-rated * care home in Bromsgrove, we

deliver high quality residential, dementia, nursing and short-term care.

As the UK’s most awarded large care provider, Care UK delivers high quality care that’s all about enabling you to enjoy the lifestyle you want. We support you to be who you’ve always been, or who you want to be, shaping your care and lifestyle to suit your interests, needs and preferences.

More like family

Our team receive the latest training in all aspects of care. Our partnership with the Association for Dementia Studies at Worcester University means we stay up to date with the latest dementia care approaches, and a Dementia Champion in each home supports all colleagues to deliver high quality care.

Above all, our team is passionate about supporting you to live life to the full. There’s a variety of activities, entertainment and outings to enjoy every day at Chandler Court. So, whether you’d like to continue enjoying a lifelong hobby, discover a new interest, make new friends or simply look forward to being pampered, Chandler Court has everything you need.

Relax in luxurious surroundings

Chandler Court is a stunning, purpose-built home offering a wealth of superb facilities, including a hair salon, cinema, pub and café. And if it’s peace and quiet you’re after, we have plenty of comfy lounges and restful alcoves where you can relax with a favourite book. Each en-suite bedroom is beautifully furnished, with our ground floor rooms enjoying private patios. If you’re a gardener or simply love the outdoors, we have lovely gardens to explore too.

Trust us to care

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. What’s more, we have more ‘Outstanding’-rated homes

than any other provider. That’s why over 8,000 families across the country trust us to care for their older loved one.

To find out more about care at Chandler Court care home please call us on 01527 903670.

Chandler Court care home Recreation Road, Bromsgrove B61 8DT careuk.com/chandler-court

Join us for our upcoming event

‘Memories with friends’ dementia-friendly café

Last Friday of each month, 2pm - 4pm

*As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care Inspectorate in Scotland.

Photo

required to vote at

Residents are being urged to make sure they are ready to vote in May by checking they have an accepted form of ID.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence, some concessionary travel passes such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID.

Bromsgrove District’s Returning Officer, Kevin Dicks, said: “Now that the law has changed it is vital that those who want to vote on May 4th make sure they have an accepted form of ID. This applies to everyone voting at a polling station, so please consider getting ready now and avoid any late rush.”

“If you don’t already have one of the accepted forms of ID, you can apply for free ID either online or by sending in a paper application form. If you need any help, please just contact the Electoral Services team at the district council who will support you.”

The Electoral Commission has produced full and comprehensive advice on voter ID requirements. There are links

to that alongside local information at www.bromsgrove. gov.uk/elections Alternatively, call 01527 881421 for Bromsgrove District Council’s Electoral Services team.

Anyone who wants to have their say in the elections this May must also be registered to vote. It takes five minutes to register online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote.

The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station was introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act which was passed last year. It comes into effect for the first time this May.

The energy efficient kitchen

AK Fitted Interiors have compiled their top 10 cost saving tips on saving energy in the busiest room in the house.

1. When purchasing white goods, look for appliances with high energy ratings (a new grading system has recently been introduced with a simpler scale from A to G).

2. While fridges and freezers need to be kept on for obvious reasons, you can save energy by turning other appliances off at the plug. Dishwashers, microwaves, washing machines, tumble dryers and electric ovens will all eat up electricity when left on standby.

3. Only use what you need. Induction cooking uses energy more efficiently than a gas hob or electric ceramic hob. This is because no energy is wasted heating the space around the pan (and they are so much easier to clean!).

4. Switch to a dishwasher.According to the Energy Saving Trust, hand washing dishes makes up 4% of the average household’s water use – whereas using a dishwasher accounts for just 1% of our water bills. Maximise the benefits by using the eco setting wherever possible, only running when fully loaded and turning off at the plug when not in use.

5. Put a lid on it! Always cover your pots and pans –the water will boil faster and use less energy to heat your food. Away from the hob, avoid the temptation to open the oven door repeatedly – you’ll let out hot air and waste energy.

6. Batch cooking. Ovens use significantly more energy than microwaves but are a necessity for many of our favourite dishes. Try cooking several dishes simultaneously, saving time as well as energy and money.

7. Bright ideas. Lighting typically accounts for a further 15% of electrical demand throughout the home. It’s worth changing to LED light bulbs and keeping lights off when not in use.

8. Only fill and boil the kettle with as much water as you need and descale regularly. If it’s full of limescale, you use more energy to boil the same amount of water. Alternatively, consider investing in a boiling water tap, which involves a substantial initial cost but has been proven to be more energy efficient if your household boils the kettle several times a day or more.

9. Keep your fridge at five degrees Celsius or less. On average, we keep our fridges at seven degrees Celsius, which may save a small amount on energy bills but also means our food goes off sooner.

10. Modern washing machines can clean clothes effectively at lower temperatures. Changing from 40°C to 30°C means you could get three cycles instead of two using the same amount of energy, depending on your washing machine.

Thinking of updating your kitchen? AK Fitted Interiors’ experienced design team can advise further on creating a more energy efficient space tailored to your specific needs.

Visit the showroom at Saxon Park, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove,B60 4AD or visit www.akfittedinteriors.co.uk

Hardy snowdrops welcome longer days

I never used to take too much notice of snowdrops, popping through the frozen ground, heads bowed against the cold. They were something that had never graced my mom’s garden while I was growing up and subsequently never made it into my own until recently.

I have never been too successful with free styling bulbs, only when planting prepared tubs for my patio; and daffodils have always been my bulb of choice.

But as I’ve grown older, I look at those once dismissed plants with new eyes.I never knew there were so many different varieties of snowdrops, and how serious collectors are prepared to pay a lot of money for rare specimens. I now get down on their level and gently lift the downcast face to peer inside and marvel at the different colours and shapes with awe and wonder.

For many gardeners the snowdrop (Galanthus) signals the end of winter and welcomes longer days.

It’s a hardy little thing and can be relied on to flower very early whatever the weather.Galanthus grows best in heavier, moist soils and dappled shade.It is most successfully transplanted while growing in the green, the dry bulbs often take a season to settle down before flowering.

Personally, I’ve never had any luck bringing these to life. The clumps will benefit from being divided when the flowers have died down before the foliage disappears completely. They don’t have too many problems with diseases or pests but can be prone to mould and are a very good source of food for early pollinators.

Jobs to keep you busy throughout February

Prune late-summer flowering clematis, cutting stems back to healthy buds about 30cm from the base

Divide congested clumps of herbaceous perennials and grasses to make vigorous new plants for free Prune winter-blooming shrubs such as mahonia, winter jasmine and heathers, once they’ve finished flowering

Cut back wisteria side shoots to three buds from the base, to encourage abundant flowers in spring Give winter heathers a light trim after flowering, removing shoot tips but not cutting back into old wood Prune buddleia to the base

Cut back overwintered fuchsias and increase the frequency of watering to spur them into growth

Put cloches or fleece over strawberry plants to start them into growth

Trim back Ivy, Virginia creeper and other climbers if they have outgrown their space, before birds start nesting

Chit first-early potato tubers, such as ‘Foremost’, by standing them in trays in a light, frost-free place

Prepare veg beds for sowing by weeding thoroughly, then cover with a thick layer of garden compost

Sow sweet peas in deep pots and keep them frost-free in a greenhouse or on a sunny windowsill

Sow summer bedding and tender annuals, including cosmos, lobelia, dahlias, nasturtiums and snapdragons

Plant dahlia tubers in trays to encourage shoots to develop, which you can then use as cuttings

Remove any faded or yellowing leaves from overwintering plants to prevent fungal diseases

If snow falls, knock it off evergreen shrubs, hedges and conifers to prevent branches snapping under the weight

So much to be done. So little time to do it all!The new growing season has begun so it’s time to get busy.

By Suzi M, plotter

The National Trust’s top winter walks in Worcestershire

The National Trust cares for hundreds of trails in beautiful locations across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Head to the coast for dramatic grey skies and thundering waves, blow away the cobwebs with invigorating countryside walks or follow inviting paths through frost-sprinkled parkland and historic gardens. Immerse yourself in striking winter scenery; the stark beauty of frost-gilded trees, new vistas of wide landscapes and dramatic winter sunsets.

Winter is a great time to go outdoors and see wildlife. Birds arrive for the winter months and woodland residents can be seen more easily in the bare trees, so why not combine your winter walk with some great nature-spotting opportunities?

Our tea rooms and cafes make the perfect pit-stop after your winter ramble to warm up and refuel with a hot drink, comforting warm lunch or a well-earned sweet treat.

Here are a few of the best trails in Worcestershire for you to enjoy during the cold winter months:

Croome

Stride out on a brisk winter walk into the acres of parkland at Croome. Framed with frost-gilded trees and far-reaching countryside views, discover the Temples and Follies that sit at the heart of the ‘Capability’ Brown landscape. The 4-mile Conservation Walk takes a scenic tour of the parkland, with stops to enjoy the historic monuments found there. Dogs on leads are welcome in the parkland. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are available for loan.

Clent Hills

A countryside haven in the heart of the Midlands,

miles of footpaths, far-reaching views and scenic monuments can all be found at Clent Hills. Blow away the cobwebs with a brisk walk on one of the many walking trails, a popular route is the Clent Hills short walk. This picturesque trail takes you to the top of Clent Hill, where the mysterious Four Stones can be found, and on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with views of the Welsh Black Mountains. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Hanbury Hall

Explore Hanbury Hall’s historic parkland on a peaceful winter walk and admire the beautiful Worcestershire countryside dusted with a glistening blanket of frost. Enjoy routes that lead you through the remains of an ancient forest, past impressive early eighteenth-century design features including the Semi-Circle, Long Walk and Lime Tree Walk. Dogs on leads are welcome in the parkland.

Hanbury Hall - Photo: Niamh Canning

Stay warm and well this winter

Colder weather, seasonal infections, and higher costs means winter can be a challenging time for many older people. With the cost of living crisis, this winter is quite likely to be one of our most difficult yet, so the national Age UK team are raising awareness of six things that we can all do to try and stay well:

1. Get your free flu jab and COVID-19 booster if you’re 50+ or a carer (and check which other vaccines you may be eligible for)

2. If you’re worried about your health, check it outCall 111 or speak to your doctor or local pharmacy

3. Talk to someone if you’re feeling out of sorts or lonely - Your mental health matters

4. Make sure your home is warm enough - Contact the Age UK Advice Line (0800 678 1602) or your local Age UK for energy advice and help with the costs of heating your home

5. Get support if you’re struggling with your finances

- Contact the Age UK Advice Line (0800 678 1602) or your local Age UK if you’re struggling to pay your bills

6. Keep moving and eat enough this winter - Stay as active as possible and keep an eye on unintentional weight loss.

The national team have also set up a hub of information on their website www.ageuk.org.uk/ winter and produced a ‘Winter wrapped up’ guide.

In addition to these national resources, as the local Age UK partner, Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest (Age UK BRWF) is also aware of the local help and support that is available for older people.

The charity’s Information and Advice team can help with finances by completing benefit entitlement checks to ensure that people are receiving all of the benefits and financial help that they are entitled to.

Thanks to local funding, Age UK BRWF is also able to offer free Home Energy Checks for the over 50s

living in North Worcestershire. As part of the Energy Check, one of Age UK BRWF’s handypersons will visit your home to check the temperature and for draughts, as well as inspecting your heating system and any insulation measures you have.

Depending on the outcome of the assessment they will then fit appropriate energy saving equipment, free of charge, as well as offering some practical tips for saving energy and keeping fuel bills down without compromising on the warmth of your home.

Anybody interested in a Free Energy Check should call the Age UK BRWF team on 01527 570490 (Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm). You can visit the charity’s website www.ageuk.org.uk/brwf/ to find out more about the scheme and Age UK BRWF’s local work.

The Age UK BRWF team would also like to encourage everyone to check on older relatives, friends and neighbours to make sure that they have everything they need and that they are keeping warm and well. Winter can be an especially difficult, lonely and isolating time for older people – popping round or giving somebody a call can really help to make a difference!

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Down Alcester way

In times gone by, one of Bromsgrove’s nearest neighbours was Alcester, a vibrant market town on the Warwickshire/Worcestershire border.

Alcester’s origins go back much further than those of Bromsgrove. It was founded by the Romans as a military fort around 47 A.D. Known to the Romans as Alauna, it grew into a walled town of some importance being located near several Roman roads, including Icknield Street (which ran from South West England up to Yorkshire), the Fosse Way, and the ancient Saltway from Droitwich Spa.

Archaeological digs suggest that the walled Roman town was surrounded by an extensive grid of workshops and associated housing. There is evidence for trades such as tanning, metal working and pottery manufacture being carried on here. Some of Alcester’s Roman houses appear to have been well endowed, with features such as heating, painted plaster and mosaic floors. Along with most Romano-British towns, Alauna went into decline in the fourth century when the Romans left Britain.

By the early Middle Ages, Alencestre (meaning fort by the River Alne) had become an AngloSaxon market town within the Kingdom of Mercia. Alcester Abbey was founded as a Benedictine monastery in 1138. After Richard de Tutbury, the last abbot, resigned in 1467 Alcester was absorbed into the neighbouring Evesham Abbey. It was later demolished under Henry VIII and the ruins were granted to the local Greville family, who used much of the stone to rebuild their family seat of Beauchamp Court.

Modern-day Alcester includes a number of preserved Tudor buildings, including the oldest inhabited Tudor house in Warwickshire. Several of these are near the parish church in Butter Street and in Malt Mill Lane. The clock on St Nicholas’ Church is in an unusual position on the south-west corner of the 14th century tower, making it visible from the main High Street. The Old Rectory, situated directly in front of the church, is an interesting example of Georgian architecture, with several Victorian additions.

Nearby are two stately homes, Coughton Court, a National Trust property, whose ancestors were key conspirators in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605; and Ragley Hall, which is the home of the Marquis of Hertford and houses the Jerwood Foundation’s sculpture collection.

Like Bromsgrove, Alcester retains its Court Leet, an ancient institution that is now dedicated to charitable works. Alcester’s Court Leet holds a charity street market in early June, with a procession and competitions for best stall and best fancy dress.

The history of Alcester will be explored at the Bromsgrove Society’s local history talk on Tuesday, February 21st, in a presentation by Alcester historian Alan Godfrey. Other talks in our spring 2023 programme are: A View from the Towpath by David Morgan, on March 21st; and on April 18th Robin Hill will present My Collection of Collections. All are evening meetings at the Methodist Centre, Stratford Road. For further details visit the Bromsgrove Society website, www.bsoc.co.uk

by

Mike Sharpe

Discover the benefits of Terahertz therapy

Happy New Year to Completely Bromsgrove readers. Here’s to a healthy 2023 on every level of who we are.

What am I going to cover this coming year? Last year focused on Redox Molecules and this year I will continue with Nano Technology as I believe this is the future of health.

Some months ago, I treated myself to an iTera Blower. I can hear you asking: What on earth is one of those and why would I need one? After breaking my ankle in three places it was feeling very constricted. I had read about this blower and thought I would try it for myself. Since then, I have also used it on different clients who are amazed by the results.

A treatment can last anything from 20 minutes to an hour and I use my Renu 28 gel to finish off the treatment. The client goes away with a tube of Renu and results have been brilliant, as well as paying for the blower. Even if I was not a therapist, it is one of the best investments I made last year.

Eight benefits of using iTeraCare devices for your immune system

iTeraCare Blower devices and water go a long way to supporting the balance your body needs to thrive:

• Eliminates unhealthy cells

• Activates dormant cells

• Increases self-healing ability to the DNA level

• Clears meridian and lymph points

• Terahertz improves microcirculation of the blood

• Regulates endocrine glands and protects our organs

• Removes body humidity (water retention)

• Cleanses blood impurities.

This integrates 3 in 1 core technologies: Terahertz, Scalar Wave and Optical Quartz.

Terahertz - Terahertz resonates at the same frequency as normal human cells, generating millions of vibrations per second thus activating healthy and dormant cells, while eliminating unhealthy cells and free radicals.

Scalar Wave - Generates Scalar Wave energy that energizes our cells, balances bodily systems, strengthens the body, produces healing energy, and penetrates deeper into the vital organs.

Optical Quartz - Optical Quartz amplifies the energy generated by the device, creating a more powerful result. Mimics 1/40 of the sunlight’s UV energy and strengthens auric fields in the body.

How does it work?

Terahertz resonates at the same frequency as normal human cells, generating millions of vibrations per second.

• Radiant Heat - Current is passed through a coiled, Nichrome element, creating both radiant, and infrared heat

• Optical Quartz - As infrared waves pass through the optical grade, quartz tube, excited electrons begin to vibrate

• Terahertz technology - Significantly void of impurities, the optical quartz tube’s vibration generates Terahertz frequencies

• Convection current - As Terahertz frequencies are generated, convection currents force the radiant air from the fused, quartz tube

• Transdermal delivery - When the iTeracare wand is pointed toward the body, non-ionizing frequencies are delivered directly through the skin.

BioTeraTherapy is the latest breakthrough. If you would like more information on how to purchase an iTera Blower please contact me on colette@ need4change.com

by Colette Garside

Easy Beef Stir Fry with Noodles

Method:

Cook the egg noodles according to the pack instructions, then drain.

For the Stir Fry:

• 250g egg noodles

• 200g leanbeef rump steak, cut into thin strips

• 3 tbsp cornflour

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 225g can sliced water chestnuts, drained

• 1 small red pepper, deseeded and sliced

• 1 small yellow pepper, deseeded and sliced

• 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets

www.kikkoman.co.uk

Toss the strips of beef in the cornflour and set aside. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. Put the vegetable in a small saucepan set over a medium heat.When the oil is hot, lightly fry the garlic for 1 minute, then add the ginger paste and cook for 30 seconds. Add the water, Kikkoman Soy Sauce and brown sugarto the pan and simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce begins to thicken. Keep warm while preparing the rest of the ingredients.

For the stir fry, put the vegetable oil in a wok or large non-stick frying pan set over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, quickly stir-fry the beef in 2-3 batches. You want it to be crisp on the outside, but not cooked throughout. Transfer the seared beef to a plate. If the wok has a lot of oil in it, remove all but 1 tbsp.

Add the water chestnuts, peppers, broccoli and most of the spring onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes before returning the beef to the wok. Add the sauce, stir, and allow everything to cook for an additional 2 minutes before removing from the heat. Toss through the noodles and serve garnished with the remaining spring onions and sesame seeds, if liked.

Historic Vernon offers warm welcome and outstanding food

Going out can often

want to know that our destination will make

struggle this time of year when it’s easier to stay at home, so when

The Vernon, which has been at the heart of the community in Hanbury for nearly three centuries, promises exactly that. Drinkers, diners, and accommodation guests are guaranteed the warmest of welcomes from friendly staff and the chance to make lasting memories with family or friends.

If you’re unfamiliar with this charming and cosy venue, here’s a brief history lesson. The Vernon name derives from the Vernon family who built Hanbury Hall. The building, which dates back to 1740, consisted of just two rooms, which still retain their original features. The period fireplace can still be seen in the private dining area.

In the 1800s the premises were extended and became a coaching inn. The horses would have been tethered where the ‘purple’ room of the restaurant stands today and the original rings remain on the walls. The Vernon family owned the building until the estate was sold in 1940 and the pub is now freehold.

There are also five luxury rooms offering boutique accommodation capturing the relaxing ambience of the Worcestershire countryside. Room rates include a

continental or English breakfast.

The Vernon is proud to be the birthplace of iconic radio drama The Archers. Godfrey Baseley, creator and editor of the programme for 22 years, often drank in the bar and it is widely believed that many of his characters were based on local Hanbury villagers.

Now the 21st century team are keen for residents and visitors from further afield to be part of their ongoing success story. Playing his part is outstanding chef Ryan Goodyear, who cooks all dishes from scratch using produce sourced as locally as possible –discerning diners can rest assured there are no ‘ding ding’ offerings on the menu!

A mouth-watering new menu has recently been launched and seniors can now enjoy an Emerald Menu at lunchtimes. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and The Vernon is offering a £35 per person set menu to include a glass of Prosecco. Pre-booking is essential.

The Vernon is easy to find on Droitwich Road, Hanbury. Visit www.vernonhanbury.co.uk for more information and contact details.

be a

we do decide to venture out, we

it well worth our while.

It’s Volvo’s own

Recently, a friend told me that his son had bought a Volvo. I said at once “You’ve brought

up well. A sensible son indeed with a great sense of style. I even went so far as to say

“Who is?” he responded.

I mention this exchange because it has relevance. Recently I have been driving a splendid new Volvo. The plug-in hybrid 455 hp XC90 that will do 43 miles on electric power and return a claimed 188.1mpg235.1 mpg if you use the electric power all the time, has so much going for it that it would take the most eloquent orator on the planet to extol its virtues. As I am not that person, please bear with me while I compose my thoughts.

It’s easier to start by declaring what the car does not do. I offer you a complete assurance that this Volvo cannot fly. What it does do, however, is lift the spirits of all who sail in her. Pardon the mixed metaphors. Obviously, this superlative Volvo is neither

friend laughed at this.

an aeroplane nor a boat. That aside, if you seek an eco-conscious seven-seater that offers oodles of everything to guarantee safe serenity no matter how many brigands, highwaymen and rampaging hordes infest the roads, then the XC 90 is certain - in common parlance - to ‘float your boat’. Is there a downside I hear you ask?

Well, as you’d expect, at £77,765 (as tested £81,710 with various pack options) it’s competitively priced for its sector, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. However, for those who are fortunate enough to be able to ‘push the boat out’ my advice is...don’t hesitate. In uncertain times it’s best to bet on a ‘cert’. Investing in a Volvo guarantees many happy returns.

him

“I don’t expect he’s a fan of smart motorways either.” My

Peaky Blinder!

This plug-in hybrid XC90 gives clean propulsion in the urban environment from the 145 hp electric motor plus plenty of poke from the 310 hp 2.0, 4 cylinder petrol engine for motorways and escaping to the country. (When the two power units work together, that’s a whopping 455hp to take this big vehicle to 112 mph if you wish).Reassuringly there’s 4WD plus every type of safety equipment on tap to protect and serve while optimum ambient comfort provides the most refined mode of transportation.

Volvo drivers will know that their car badge is an instant passport to warm recognition and approval. The same is not always true of other makes. The XC90 presents itself as purposeful and graceful looking. Big enough to carry seven (deploying a clever extra rear seat facility) this is never going to be a car built for Lilliput. And yet it conceals enormous carrying capacity beneath the smooth styling. It has the sort of presence you can’t ignore - though, of course, without any hint of vulgarity.

Where, I wondered, might I find six willing passengers to treat them to the Volvo experience. I needed to look no further than a troupe of theatrical performers who tour primary schools.

Tip Top - as they are called - were inconvenienced on account of their old van needing repair. So it was that yours truly plus six passengers and equipment set out for a school in the Peak District.

My troupe were shorter in the tooth than I and it was good to have their fresh perspective on things. One misguided member seemed convinced that the old van was more eco-friendly than any new car. I quickly disabused him of this view pointing out the Volvo’s latest technology.

After driving through Buxton along twisty roads we were soon elevated among the high spots enjoying views characteristic of the Peak District. That was when the eco-conscious young man uttered a quip that had us all groaning aloud.

“This car” opined the conscientious thespian “Is certainly a Peaky Blinder!”

by Syd Taylor

Award-winning museum ambitious events schedule

The British Motor Museum in Warwickshire has announced 38 motoring shows including several new events for 2023.

With popularity and demand at an all time high, this is the award-winning museum’s busiest schedule to date and it is also freezing ticket prices at 2022 rates.

The first Gaydon Gathering of the season takes place on April 11th. This free event has proved popular with hundreds of vehicles turning up to enjoy an informal evening. Other dates throughout the year include May 9th, June 13th, July 11th, August 8th, September 12th and October 10th.

A selection of new events and shows will bring even more variety in 2023. These include Vaux ALL on May 13th, the Saab International weekend on August 5th and 6th, the National Street Van Association Nationals on August 13th and the Italian Wheels Day on September 16th.

Events marking a special anniversary take centre stage and tickets are now available. First is the Gaydon Land Rover Show on May 7th and 8th which will celebrate the 75th anniversary of Land Rover. A one-off show to mark the MG Centenary will take place on May 27th. The BMC & Leyland Show on July 9th will be celebrating two landmark anniversaries of British motoring; 50 years of the Austin Allegro and 40 years of the Austin Maestro.

Tickets for the much-loved classics are also on sale now; the National Metro & Mini Show on June 4th, Classic & Vintage Commercial Show on June 10th and 11th, Wythall BusFest at Gaydon on July 1st, Old Ford Rally and Rootes Heritage Day on July 23rd and Retro Truck Show on September 9th and 10th.

Popular shows returning for 2023 include Tucked featuring modified rides, classics, and supercars on April 2nd. Museum on the Move, a members’ only event, returns on April 21st and will showcase a selection of cars from the collection with the opportunity for members to ride in them. The Ultimate BMW Show will be back on April 30th after a bumper first year which featured over 850 cars. Looking ahead to the summer, the Banbury Run returns on June 18th with Ford Nationals on June 25th and a Big MINI Show for BMW Minis on July 30th. These are followed by Jaguars at Gaydon on September 2nd and the TR Register International Meeting on September 3rd.

For more information, visit www. britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on

Car cleaning expert answers Quest call

When you’re producing a primetime TV programme with Drew Pritchard about rescuing some of the finest classic cars, you need to be sure the experts you use know what they’re talking about.

Stuart Porter, founder of The Clean Car Company, is a proven and trusted partner for such productions, and once again he has been called in to help. Keep your eyes peeled for Salvage Hunters: Classic Cars on Quest on February 8 at 9pm.

Stuart’s first appearance was on Channel 5’s The Gadget Show where he was challenged to use traditional valeting techniques against some of the latest time-saving gadgets. Despite stiff competition from the latest technological developments, he proved nothing beats experience and beat the pretenders in terms of time and quality.

“By searching out the expert with an immaculate reputation and no desire for publicity, we are assured of the best reliable advice that has been tried, tested and found to be useful to our viewers, which is far preferable to the self-professed experts, clamouring for their 15 minutes of fame,” said a production company spokesman.

Away from the cameras, Stuart takes an active role in the car care industry as an advisor on the board for the Professional Valeters & Detailers Trade Association, the body that is driving change and development within the independent car care industry.

In 2019 they introduced a mandatory theory and practical assessment for all joining members – Stuart was among the first members to step up and take the test to help refine and develop it for future generations of car care professional.

Thanks in part to his efforts, the PVD Assessment is the only truly independent and up-to-date qualification a valeter or detailer can attain in the UK.

Despite all this exposure and plaudits, Stuart remains somewhat camera shy and has resisted the celebrity pedestal. He still serves a loyal cohort of regular clients and charges a fair hourly rate. Serving Bromsgrove and the surrounding areas, the Clean Car Company remains the go-to detailing company for those seeking quality and value in equal measure. www.thecleancarcompany.com

Cross TrainsCountry says ‘no’ to Bromsgrove stop

f people want to travel south from Bromsgrove to Cheltenham, Bristol and South West England and South Wales, or if a visitor wants to travel north from these destinations to the town and district, it is not easy.

The travel by car option is to use the increasingly busy, and often congested, M5 and M50 with the likelihood of being stuck in a traffic jam and adding to carbon emissions.

The first rail option is to travel from Bromsgrove station to University station, thus incurring extra time and expense, before catching a Cross Country (XC Trains) Nottingham to Cardiff Train, which then travels back through Bromsgrove before continuing on southwards.

It is possible to change at Worcestershire Parkway to continue south-east via the Great Western Railways (GWR) Services to the North Cotswolds, Oxford, Reading and London Paddington, or change at Cheltenham to continue to Bristol and the South West.

The second rail option, again time consuming and incurring extra expense, is to travel to Worcester Foregate Street, then change trains to catch the GWR Service to Cheltenham and Bristol.

As far as BARRUP is aware, there is no technical reason why XC Trains services can’t stop at Bromsgrove. They used to stop at the two platform pre-July 2016 station, and between 2016 and 2018 they stopped at the four platform new interchange station. But following the introduction of the Cross City electric services into Birmingham New Street and beyond in July 2018, the services were summarily withdrawn, without any consultation or any valid reason being given.

Bromsgrove

But there is a third, and much more attractive, option, which is being denied currently by XC Trains to the people and businesses of Bromsgrove.

Last year BARRUP pressed Worcestershire County Council to take up this issue with XC Trains, but currently the operator is adamant that it will not stop its services at Bromsgrove. Bearing in mind that XC Trains is heavily subsidised by the Government, and thus by you and me, this is unacceptable and in 2023 BARRUP will continue to press for its services to stop at the town’s station.

by Nick Taylor

I

Flower club members look forward to a creative 2023

Bromsgrove Flower Club ended 2022 in a festive mood.

On arrival at the December 8th meeting members were greeted with a delicious glass of mulled wine.

Chairlady Angela Harvey had promised a short AGM at the beginning of the meeting and she kept to her word! Cups were awarded for the winners of the flower arrangement competitions held throughout the year including flower of the month, novice, intermediate and advanced levels.

We were entertained by our surprise flower arranger, Lorna Hill. Lorna is a long-time supporter and club member. We enjoyed a wonderful demonstration by Lorna, and her varied arrangements showed her creative flair along with her extremely original ideas. She also shared some useful tips and techniques with her audience. The arrangements were included as prizes in our grand Christmas raffle. Throughout the year, Bromsgrove Flower Club meets every third Thursday of the month at 2pm at All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove, B60 1AF. We welcome both existing members and new members, so do come and join us at our next meeting on Thursday, February 16th when our demonstrator will be Carole Stokes from Pinks Florists at Becketts Farm, Wythall. Carole has chosen ‘Love in Whicker’ as her title. It sounds intriguing so do join us. The competition title is ‘Love is ...’ Subscription fees are due and membership costs £40 with an entrance fee of £3 for members. Visitors’ entrance fee will be £8.

For more information visit www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk or www.facebook.com/bromsgroveflowerclub . Readers should watch out for our new web page, due at the end of February.

Five revolutions and counting - the good news story of books in the 20th century

Having had a successful programme in 2022, WORDS continues in 2023 on Thursday, March 9th with a talk from Stephen Page, chief executive officer of Faber and Faber, one of the world’s independent publishing houses.

Stephen was born and raised in Bromsgrove and his talk will be an eyewitness account of what has happened to the book industry during the last 20 years and how it has thrived and confounded the expectations of its destruction in the face of digital transformation.

It is a story of rebellious leaders, visionary booksellers, bold publishers, and the power of writers in a period of dramatic societal change.

The venue for Stephen’s talk is the Learning and Resource Centre at Bromsgrove School. Access is via the Worcester Road entrance (B61 7HP) and a buggy will be available.

Tickets priced at £12 are available via www.ticketsource.co.uk (in the event search bar, type in Five Revolutions and Counting), or from WORDS, Sycamore House, Rigby Hall, Rigby Lane, Bromsgrove, B60 2EW. Please make cheques payable to WORDS and include a S.A.E. and your email address (if you have one).

Serving up a rainbow pancake of friendship and romance

Escape to tropical paradise with Fairfield Flicks on Sunday, February 12th at 7.30pm with two of the world’s most celebrated and beloved movie stars.

Academy Award winners George Clooney and Julia Roberts team up as exes who find themselves on a shared mission: to stop their lovestruck daughter from making the same mistake they once made.

Ticket to Paradise (12a) is a romantic comedy about the sweet surprise of second chances.

On Wednesday, February 15th at 7.30pm, film fans can enjoy a romantic comedy from a major studio about two gay men maybe, possibly, probably, stumbling towards love. Maybe. They’re both very busy.

From the ferocious comic mind of Billy Eichner and the hitmaking brilliance of filmmakers Nicholas Stoller and Judd Apatow, comes Bros (15), a smart and heartfelt comedy about finding sex, love and romance amidst the madness that is life.

The sequel to the 2019 hit UK comedy movie Fisherman’s Friends will be screened on Wednesday, February 22nd at 2.30pm. This uplifting true story follows the unexpected success of the band’s debut album No Hopers, Jokers and Rogues as we re-join them almost a year later, struggling with the pressures, pitfalls and temptations of their new-found fame.

Fisherman’s Friends One and All (12) continues the journey with the loveable ‘buoy band’, as they navigate the choppy waters of fame, second album syndrome, and performing on the pyramid stage at Glastonbury.

Fairfield Flicks is located at Fairfield Village Hall (B61 9LZ). There is free parking and a licenced bar. For information and advanced tickets for all events, visit www.fairfieldflicks.org.uk

February at The FeckenOdeon Cinema Society in Feckenham

Friday, 10th February at 8pm

The Lost King (12a)

In 2012, having been lost for over 500 years, the remains of King Richard III were discovered beneath a car park in Leicester. The search had been orchestrated by an amateur historian, Philippa Langley in the face of considerable scepticism from experts and academics. A life-affirming true story of a woman who refused to be ignored.

Directed by Stephen Frears and starring Sally Hawkins & Steve Coogan. ( UK 2022 )

Saturday, 25th February at 7.30pm

Gaslight (PG)

A suspense-filled thriller fuelled by a long-ago murder and a husband’s nefarious ill-will towards his new wife. Charles Boyer is deliciously creepy as the husband. Ingrid Bergman is movingly convincing as the terrified wife (in a role that gained her an Oscar). Angela Lansbury plays a mysterious housemaid. It’s directed by George Cukor and based on the play by Patrick Hamilton. Is she mad? …or is he making her mad? ( USA 1944)

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. FeckenOdeon is Feckenham’s community cinema based at Feckenham Village Hall, High St., Feckenham. B96 6HN

Sunday, 26th February at 7.30pm

Ma Bessie’s Prohibition Party

Ma Bessie and her Pig Foot Band take us on a trip back to prohibition-era America, bringing us the very best of the period’s blues and jazz, with a brilliant homage to the Empress of Blues herself. Julia Titus, as Ma Bessie, treats us to a host of blues standards as well as many of her own compositions all perfectly in tune with the music of the time.

We’ll be recreating a speakeasy - feel free to dress appropriately - spats and feather boas were very popular (not necessarily worn together!).

Tickets for shows at Feckenham Village Hall are on sale at The Village Shop and The Rose & Crown. You can also book by phone (through TicketSource) on 0333 666 3366 or online at www.feckhall.org

llllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllop;Tragedy for former Sporting

Tragedy for our former player Cody

At every club, football sometimes has to take second place and that happened when news emerged that former player Cody Fisher had been stabbed subsequently died. He was 23 years old.

Cody played nine matches for Sporting last season, scoring on his succession of injuries. At the end of the season, he decided to move t registered for the current campaign.

At every club, football sometimes has to take second place and that happened at Bromsgrove Sporting in December when news emerged that former player Cody Fisher had been stabbed at a Birmingham nightclub on Boxing Day and subsequently died. He was 23 years old.

Sporting were due to play Stratford on New Year's Day Bank Holiday players at both clubs knew Cody well and did not think they could give due to be played at the end of February when a full tribute will be made

Cody played nine matches for Sporting last season, scoring on his debut. It would have been more but for a succession of injuries. At the end of the season, he decided to move to Stratford Town and that was where he was registered for the current campaign.

Sporting were due to play Stratford on New Year’s Day Bank Holiday but the match was called off as a number of players at both clubs knew Cody well and did not think they could give 100% in such circumstances. The game is now due to be played at the end of February when a full tribute will be made by both clubs.

On the field, the Rouslers gained a useful three points against St Ives Stourbridge Since the New Year there has been a loss at Hitchin Unfortunately Sporting crashed out of the Worcestershire Senior Cup after Player/manager Mike McGrath continues to build his squad with highly Dawkins moving to the Victoria Ground from Northampton Town and Leicester Fixtures until the beginning of March are shown on the following table website as the weather can interfere with games at this time of the year

Fixtures until the beginning of March are shown on the following table but it is recommended to check the Sporting website as the weather can interfere with games at this time of the year.

On the field, the Rouslers gained a useful three points against St Ives Town in December followed by a draw at Stourbridge. Since the New Year there has been a loss at Hitchin Town and a draw against Bedford Town. Unfortunately Sporting crashed out of the Worcestershire Senior Cup after losing 2-1 at home to Evesham United.

Bromsgrove Sporting Ladies started the New Year in fine style beating Bewdley Town Ladies in the County Cup. The score was 1-1 at full-time and they secured the win with a 4-1 penalty shoot-out; Sophie Taylor scored the only goal with Charlotte Frost converting the decisive spot kick.

Any girls from the age of five and of any ability interested in playing football can come along to sessions organised by Bromsgrove Sporting with FA qualified coaches. Text Alan Williams on 07786 983951 for further information.

All information about Bromsgrove Sporting can be found at www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk Enquiries can be sent to hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

Bromsgrove Sporting Ladies started the New Year in fine style beating score was 1-1 at full-time and they secured the win with a 4-1 penalty with Charlotte Frost converting the decisive spot kick. Any girls from the age of five and of any ability interested in playing football Bromsgrove Sporting with FA qualified coaches. Text Alan Williams on 07786 All information about Bromsgrove Sporting can be found at www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

The Facebook page is "Fans of Bromsgrove Sporting" and the Twitter handle

The Facebook page is “Fans of Bromsgrove Sporting” and the Twitter handle @SportingFC

Photos by Chris Jepson

Cody Fisher

by Phil Baker

Player/manager Mike McGrath continues to build his squad with highly-rated youngsters Ayo Lekundi and Kartell Dawkins moving to the Victoria Ground from Northampton Town and Leicester City respectively.

Luxury Winter Break

former player and steady progress at Bromsgrove happened at Bromsgrove Sporting in December at a Birmingham nightclub on Boxing Day and debut. It would have been more but for a to Stratford Town and that was where he was but the match was called off as a number of 100% in such circumstances. The game is now made by both clubs. Ives Town in December followed by a draw at Hitchin Town and a draw against Bedford Town. after losing 2-1 at home to Evesham United. highly-rated youngsters Ayo Lekundi and Kartell Leicester City respectively table but it is recommended to check the Sporting year.

Offering an immaculate holiday home in the beautiful village of Kingsbridge located on the Salcombe Estuary South Devon. The property offers a modern living space which comfortably sleeps 6 guests, with secure gated parking. Stunning coastal walks to work up an appetite which can be quelled at one of the nearby restaurants offering quality cuisine for you to savor within walking distance of the property. For more information or to book your break, call George on 07951 424277 To learn more about what Kingsbridge has to offer checkout their website www.hellokingsbridge.co.uk

beating Bewdley Town Ladies in the County Cup. The shoot-out; Sophie Taylor scored the only goal football can come along to sessions organised by 07786 983951 for further information. www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk Enquiries can be sent to handle @SportingFC

Nearby Burgh Island