Completely Bromsgrove Issue 61 May '24

Bromsgrove Completely

Don’t miss our 10-page Wedding Supplement

Welcome to the May issue of Completely Bromsgrove W

e begin by introducing our readers to the new Conservative Party prospective parliamentary candidate Bradley Thomas. Turn to page 6 to find out more about Bradley.

With spring firmly here and the days getting longer, Hanbury Hall is celebrating the beauty of the estate’s blossom trees. It’s always heartwarming to see the trees bursting into bright pink and white flowers.

Staying with a seasonal theme, turn to page 28 for the start of our ten page Completely Weddings supplement.

Everyone at Completely Bromsgrove would like to congratulate Kevin Ward, Bromsgrove’s Town Crier, who recently attended Warwick Town Criers competition and was named best dressed crier. It is always a great pleasure to see and hear Kevin airing his lungs in the High Street!

Many readers may have already visited the Artrix since it reopened under the guidance of Bromsgrove Community Arts, which is made up of volunteers. Turn to page 50 and discover that there is plenty to look forward to this month.

Bromsgrove WORDS welcomes Patrick Burns, the former political editor for BBC West Midlands, at the next event on May 15th. Turn to page 56 for more information.

Enjoy being out and about this month and remember folks - keep it local!

Very best wishes

Michele Ford

Meet Conservative Party PPC Bradley Thomas

It’s an honour to be standing as the Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the Conservative Party in Bromsgrove constituency. Born and raised in Worcestershire, I am deeply rooted in our area and have a strong understanding of its unique needs and the aspirations of its people.

Bromsgrove town centre is the urban core of the constituency, but our area stretches much further. With vibrant community centres across Hagley, Rubery and Wythall and a large rural hinterland of villages across Worcestershire’s beautiful countryside, this constituency has a strong heritage and an abundance of opportunity.

I have been out and about meeting residents and listening to your local concerns, hopes and aspirations.

I’ve been hearing from local businesses - the lifeblood of the local economy - how they can be supported to create well-paid, local jobs and how we can grow a thriving economy where people have skills for the future. Given our close proximity to Birmingham this opportunity is huge.

I’ve met with local farmers who act as stewards of our rural landscapes and discussed how we must support British agriculture as they feed our nation.

I’ve visited many of our thriving rural villages and communities which are home to so many local people and which, alongside our green belt, must be protected, preserved, and enhanced.

I’ve also met with many committed volunteers working in charities and community groups, providing valuable services to those most in need through to friendly support for neighbours who are alone.

I am standing on a record of local delivery having served for five years as leader of neighbouring Wychavon District Council, one of the most successful councils in the country. Now, as your prospective Member of Parliament, I am committed to providing a strong voice both locally and in Westminster.

Local priorities include:

• Growing our economy, to boost earnings and reduce taxes so that local people are better off.

• Campaigning to secure investment in Bromsgrove town centre as it becomes a more vibrant residential, retail and social hub.

• Supporting rural communities and villages so that they continue to thrive for residents of all ages.

• Delivering the best possible healthcare locally and campaigning for fresh NHS investment across all of Bromsgrove’s communities.

• Ensuring that children can access local schools including those with special educational needs.

• Protecting our greenbelt and rural vistas whilst enhancing the environment.

• Campaigning for infrastructure investment to ease traffic congestion and to reduce speeding, particularly through rural areas.

• Making our area safer and more secure. With 330 new police officers across West Mercia since 2019, I am focused on reducing crime including rural crime and antisocial behaviour.

This list isn’t exhaustive but gives a flavour of local priorities.

Politically, I am a Conservative because of my core values including personal responsibility, opportunity, fairness, low taxation, justice, law and order, and providing support for those in genuine need.

Standing for election to Parliament in Bromsgrove is an immense privilege and I pledge to be an MP for all.

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Introducing a new smart water feature

VAlthough North Worcestershire Water Management have had no direct involvement in the project, we’re sharing some information on why this work has taken place.

This work was done by Severn Trent Water Ltd to allow them to monitor flows through the channel.

The concrete structure is called a flume, which has known and uniform hydraulic characteristics, including the profile shape and dimensions, and the roughness coefficient of the base and sides. This allows accurate stage (depth) and flow readings to be taken. The nearby green cabinet houses the telemetry equipment, which typically take readings every 15 minutes.

Although it might not seem believable with the recent rainfall we’ve experienced, the Battlefield Brook is classified as a “low flow” watercourse, due

to the amount of abstraction from the underlying aquifer in the local area for drinking water.

This gauging station can monitor when flow levels drop below a certain threshold to allow augmentation from an upstream borehole, supplementing flows directly from the aquifer to maintain river health.

The steps installed here are a requirement of Severn Trent, and due to the proximity of the local schools it was decided that handrails and signage should be included for safety purposes. It currently looks a bit muddy, but the banks of the brook will soon re-vegetate.

To find out more about Severn Trent’s work to improve river health, visit www.stwater.co.uk/getriver-positive

isitors to Sanders Park may have noticed some recent work which has taken place on the Battlefield Brook near to the tennis courts.

Figures reveal GP funding slashed in Bromsgrove since 2019

Bromsgrove’s Liberal Democrats are calling for a legal right for patients to see their GP within seven days, or 24 hours if in urgent need.

Funding for GP services in Worcestershire and Herefordshire has been slashed by £10,481,206.41 in real terms since 2019, research commissioned by the Liberal Democrats has revealed.

The House of Commons Library analysis looks at funding for general practices over the past four years once inflation is taken into account. It shows that funding per patient across the local NHS Integrated Care Board ICB area, including Bromsgrove, has fallen by 6.3% since 2019.

It comes despite growing demand for GP services and patients often having to wait weeks to get an appointment.

Nationally, GP practices have received a 6.9% real terms cut in funding per patient since 2019, whilst NHS waiting lists are near record numbers at 7.6 million.

Bromsgrove’s Liberal Democrats are calling for patients to be given a legal right to see their GP within seven days, or 24 hours if in urgent need. This would be achieved by increasing the number of fully

qualified GPs by 8,000 with an initiative to boost recruitment and retain more experienced doctors.

Dr David Nicholl, an NHS doctor and candidate to be Bromsgrove’s next MP said: “Families and pensioners in Bromsgrove are currently struggling to see their GP despite being in need of medical advice. It is leaving people waiting in pain or simply anxious about not getting the care they need.

“It is not right that our community is suffering the consequences of this Conservative government’s neglect of local health services. Rishi Sunak and his failing government is totally out of touch with people’s concerns. Conservative MPs are too busy fighting amongst themselves to deliver the health services that we so desperately need.

“Seeing your GP should be at the heart of our NHS. That is why the Liberal Democrats are calling for a legal right to see a GP within seven days or 24 hours if in urgent need.”

Dr David Nicholl with Party leader Ed Davey

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Campaigners call for improvement to WMR train services

BARRUP has identified several issues with West Midlands Railway services which affect rail passengers in Bromsgrove and North East Worcestershire, and in the next few weeks will be trying to meet executives of the company to discuss their resolution.

Firstly, all trains on the Birmingham New Street to Hereford service should call at Barnt Green, thus enabling passengers from Alvechurch, Barnt Green and Redditch to travel directly to Bromsgrove, Droitwich Spa, Worcester Foregate Street and beyond.

Secondly , the 7.52 from Worcester Foregate Street, passes through but currently does not stop at, Bromsgrove. As a result, there is no service from Worcester and Droitwich serving Bromsgrove between the peak times of 7.23 and 8.43.

The reason given by WMR for not doing so was because the carriages on this timing were too full by the time that it had reached Bromsgrove, but the introduction of 196 Type rolling stock on the New Street to Hereford service gives extra passenger capacity, so the decision should be reconsidered.

Thirdly , on Saturday nights, the 22.53 and 23.23 Cross City Services leaving New Street should terminate at Bromsgrove and not, as they do currently, at Longbridge. This would enable people from Bromsgrove to use them to return home from events at the Symphony Hall, Town Hall, Birmingham Rep, Birmingham Hippodrome, The Alexandra Theatre et al.

Fourthly , there should be only a short time between the hourly northbound Hereford to New Street

services stopping at Bromsgrove and the Cross City Services which stop at Barnt Green. This would enable people to change for Alvechurch and Redditch, departing from Bromsgrove. Currently there can be a wait of over 45 minutes.

Fifthly , Hereford to New Street services should connect at Worcester Foregate Street with the GWR Bristol to Worcester services. The times vary during the day, but crossing between the platforms at Foregate Street for an onward journey to Bromsgrove has sometimes an allowance of less than five minutes, or the arrivals and departures are at the same time, or the arrival is just after the departure.

Sixthly , station poster and pocket timetables should be re-introduced. Knowing train times in a format which is available to the whole of society is essential when travelling yet post Covid WMR still fails to provide this.

Finally , platforms 1 and 2 at Barnt Green needs arrivals and departure screens and a public address system.

We will keep Completely Bromsgrove readers informed.

by Nick Taylor, memsec@bromsgroverail.org.uk

Get ready for UK phone network’s move to digital

A

rguably one of the biggest social projects since the analogue TV switch off more than ten years ago, the UK’s telephone network is also going digital, with plans to switch off the old copper network by the end of 2025.

For most people, the switch to digital will be as straightforward as connecting their home phone handset to their router rather than the phone socket on the wall, however there are many within our communities, in particular older people, that don’t currently have access to broadband and/or who have additional vulnerabilities and could be impacted by the move.

To raise awareness of this switch, Bromsgrove Forum for Older People is partnering with Age UK BRWF to host an informal drop-in Information and Q&A Event on Wednesday May 15th from 12pm to 2pm

The event, which will be held at Age UK BRWF’s High Street charity shop (113 High Street), is being supported by members of BT’s Digital Voice team, who will be available to provide more information about the switch and to respond to people’s individual questions and concerns.

Landlines are not the only things in our homes supported by the copper phone network – it also

supports telecare and healthcare devices, plus burglar alarms. A representative from NEW Lifeline will also be supporting the event to speak to people about the solutions that they have implemented to ensure that their telecare devices will work with digital phone services.

Mary Rowlands, secretary of the Bromsgrove Forum for Older People said: “I would encourage anybody that has any questions or concerns to come along and speak with the representatives from the BT Digital Voice team so that they can fully understand how this will affect them and what they need to do.”

For more information about the digital switch over, BT has set up the following webpage www. bt.com/digital-voice . The national Age UK team has also published a range of helpful information on its website: www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/ money-legal/consumer-issues/changes-to-landlinetelephones/

Time for a clean?spring

This month, AK Fitted Interiors looks at ways to create a calmer living space.

Decluttering seems to be having a bit of a moment, with TV makeover shows based around the concept and even dedicated companies who can manage the whole process for you. While it seems like just another lifestyle trend, decluttering your home can also be a transformative experience, offering both practical benefits and emotional relief. It’s about more than just tidying up; it’s a deliberate process of simplification and organisation that can enhance your living space and your overall well-being.

At its core, decluttering involves assessing your possessions and deciding what to keep, what to donate or sell, and what to discard. This process can seem daunting, especially if you’ve accumulated a lot over the years, but breaking it down into manageable steps is a great starting point.

Begin by setting aside dedicated time for decluttering. It’s essential to carve out uninterrupted blocks of time to focus solely on this task. Begin with one area of your home, such as a wardrobe or a room, and work methodically through each space.

One effective decluttering technique is the KonMari method, popularised by Marie Kondo. This method encourages you to evaluate each item based on whether it sparks joy. By focusing on joy rather than utility alone, the idea is that you can cultivate a deeper connection to your belongings and create a home filled only with things that bring you happiness.

Of course, as the saying goes, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure! Consider donating items that are still in good condition or sell those you no longer need to provide extra income while giving someone else the opportunity to enjoy them.

Decluttering isn’t just about physical possessions. It also involves letting go of emotional baggage. Many people attach sentimental value to objects, making it challenging to part with them. However, holding onto items out of guilt or obligation can weigh you down. Recognise that memories reside within you, not within the objects themselves, and free yourself from unnecessary attachments.

Once you’ve decluttered your home, the benefits are numerous. A clutter-free environment can reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to relax and unwind more easily. Moreover, an organised home can save you time and energy on a daily basis. Decluttering is an ongoing process: regular maintenance is key to preventing clutter from accumulating again in the future. Make it a habit to regularly assess your belongings and let go of anything that no longer serves you.

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Taste and smell benefits of herb gardening

Every garden needs herbs, whether it’s just a pot placed outside your kitchen door, or if you have room, a well-stocked dedicated bed; there is nothing more rewarding than snipping home grown fresh herbs to add to your recipes.

Whatever size you have space for there are options; you can buy herb towers to plant in or you can just group your chosen herbs together in a large pot. Take time to decide on what herbs you want; don’t just base it on what you will use as most herbs are very attractive to the pollinators and this is a good way to encourage wildlife into your garden.

If you’re starting from scratch, consider a tall herb from the woody varieties like rosemary or even a bay tree to sit in the middle of your bed and plant your herbs around this. Divide your bed and group together plants that have similar needs: those that need a good soil, or perhaps a shadier spot for types which are prone to going to seed like coriander and rocket. Think about their final position as not all herbs will tolerate a sunny spot.

You will need to ensure your herbs are watered regularly and if they are in pots that they do not dry out. Woody herbs require little watering once established and prefer well-drained soil. Some herbs

like mint and lemon balm can become thuggish so plant in pots which can either be sunk into the bed complete and the pot will then restrict the roots.

Annual herbs with soft green growth like dill, parsley, coriander, and basil, which are usually the most vigorous can be succession sown throughout the season to ensure a ready supply all season long.

In general, herbs grown for foliage, such as mint, chives, lovage need to be cutback after flowering to encourage more shoots. Cut them back to within 4cm of the ground, which might seem a bit extreme, and give a good feed of liquid fertiliser; another crop of succulent leaves will be produced within a month. Thyme, lavender, sage and rosemary, the woody varieties, need a light prune to keep their shape and to prevent them from becoming too woody. Do this after flowering or in autumn.

Most herbs reach their peak of flavour just before they flower. The more you pick the healthier the plant.

Jobs to keep you busy in May

Continue earthing up potatoes. Hoe the weeds.

Sow outdoors: beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, chard, cucumber, french beans and runner beans, parsnip, peas, lettuce, radish, swedes.

Sow sweetcorn seeds in pairs, 2.5cm deep and 45cm apart. Water well and after germination, thin each pair to leave the strongest seedling.

Put straw around strawberries to keep the fruit off the ground and net them for protection from birds.

Pinch out tops of broad beans to prevent an infestation of black aphids, which are attracted to tender young shoot tips.

Tidy up tulips by snipping off fading heads. Lift the bulbs in summer, dry on sheets of newspaper and store in a cool, dry place before planting again in autumn.

By Suzi M , garden lover and plotter at Roundhill Allotments

Enjoy being in the garden on those longer days with lighter nights. There’s no excuse to get your jobs completed now.

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Photos: Wendy Carter by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

Bumping into Batman

All yellow-and-black flying insects are wasps, right? Wrong!

Pretending to be a wasp can be a great strategy for survival. It tells potential predators that you might be more dangerous than they can handle. Whilst some predators have worked this out, for many of our 280+ species of hoverfly in the UK, this is a super technique for staying alive.

Next time you spot a yellow-and-black insect, gently lean in and take a closer look. You might have bumped into Batman. Batman hoverflies are amongst the most commonly spotted of our hoverflies and you’ll recognise this superhero of the insect world by noticing the Batman-symbol mark just behind where the wings meet the body, on the thorax. While you’re there, you can impress your friends by announcing whether the insect is male or female – if the eyes meet in the middle it’s a male but if there’s a gap, you’re looking at a female. If you spot one at this time of year, it’s likely be a dull yellow but if you see one of the summer generation, it’s sunglasses at the ready!

All our wildlife plays its part in the world (even wasps, spiders and slugs) but Batman hoverflies live up to their superhero marking. Their larvae feed on bacteria whilst the adults are important pollinators as they buzz from flower-to-flower in search of pollen and nectar. They’re fairly common in gardens and greenspaces but changes in our weather mean that we need your help to track how a changing climate might affect their populations. The larvae develop in rot holes of trees and in other wet places where vegetation is decaying (a forgotten bucket in a corner, perhaps, or even a damp compost heap). Larvae are known as rat-tailed maggots because they have a cylindrical body with a breathing tube at one end. Although we’ve just had a very wet winter, the recent dry

summers may have resulted in damp habitats drying up so there may be a significant impact on the numbers of Batman hoverflies that make it through to adulthood. If you think you’ve spotted Batman, or any other hoverfly, take a photo and send it to us via our form at www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ wildlife-sightings to get your sighting registered. Meanwhile, you can help Batman and its insect relatives by planting lots of nectar and pollen rich flowers in your garden or, if you’re able to, in your local greenspaces. You can even provide suitable breeding spots for Batman mums by filling a container with leaves, moss and water before leaving it somewhere relatively sheltered. Don’t forget to pop it somewhere that you can access so you can top it up with water in hot weather and see what develops and emerges. For more information on helping wildlife where you live, visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wildlife-gardening

Celebrate beauty blossomofat Hanbury Hall

With spring arriving in spectacular clouds of white and pastel-pink blooms, the National Trust’s annual blossom season celebrations have returned.

Running for a fifth year #BlossomWatch celebrates the beauty of blossom. Inspired by the Japanese tradition of ‘Hanami’, (which literally translates to ‘flower viewing’), the National Trust is encouraging people of all ages to pause and take a moment to appreciate the temporary beauty of blossom that can be found in orchards, gardens, hedgerows, and city parks.

Each month during spring, there are different blossoms to spot. In April, look for clouds of white and pink blooms from apples, pears, plums, and damsons. Pink cherry blossoms join the show in April, while hawthorns and rowans close the seasons in May and June with delicate white flowers.

The conservation charity is inviting people everywhere to join in with the celebrations by sharing their blossom images on social media and using the hashtag #BlossomWatch to help everyone enjoy this seasonal spectacle together.

As part of the National Trust’s commitment to tackle the climate crisis and nature depletion, the charity plans to plant and establish 20 million trees across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland by 2030, with around four million of these being blossoming trees. Fruit trees and new traditional orchards are being planted, while native and historic varieties such as blackthorn and hawthorn will be chosen to support nature in other spaces.

Working with communities, the National Trust is also continuing its ambition to bring blossom back to urban spaces, by bringing people together to enjoy blossom and increasing access to nature. From orchards to city centres, the blossom-themed events will encourage visitors to enjoy this annual spectacle with activities,

artworks, picnics, games, walks, performances and more.

You can enjoy a blossom display at Hanbury Hall. The very essence of a countryside retreat; impressive yet intimate and welcoming, Hanbury owes much of that feeling to its beautiful, recreated eighteenth century garden.

Created as a safe haven for drama, fun and recreation, Hanbury’s gardens come into their own in the spring. The scene in the walled orchard delights the eye, with an abundance of heritage apple trees awash with pink toned blossom.

Further afield Kytes orchard hosts yet more apple blossom, floating above naturalised drifts of Narcissus and Fritillaria before views out to the Worcestershire landscape beyond.

Featuring: Fashion For Grooms

Wedding Traditions

Explained Flowers For The Big Day

Weddings Compl�ely

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Cascades of Confetti

The tradition of throwing confetti over the bride and groom dates back at least to the Roman era, and possibly even further. Before paper confetti, there were flowers, petals, grain or rice thrown at the happy couple, to represent the future fertility and prosperity of the couple. In Italy the newlyweds are showered with sugar coated nuts, or confectionary, from which we get the word confetti. These days confetti comes in all shapes and sizes, colours and textures, and you can still buy natural petals, which remain the most popular type, and certainly the most Vicar- and venue-friendly! Many modern brides make confetti their DIY wedding project by drying their favourite flower petals before the wedding.

The significance of the rice throwing tradition was lost a little, but the custom remained, when rice and grains were replaced with paper confetti. This is usually brightly coloured tissue paper, cut into tiny pieces, or shapes such as lucky horse shoes or wedding bells. Confetti can be bought in customised boxes or containers designed to match the wedding theme or colour scheme.

Most wedding venues no longer allow the throwing of paper confetti because of the work involved in clearing up the mess. Confetti companies are trying to fight this by producing environmentally friendly paper confetti that dissolves as soon as it rains, but, sadly it looks like the era of paper confetti is possibly coming to an end.

Groomed Well

Whilst the tuxedo is a popular choice for grooms, don’t forget your options. As men have become more interested in looking the part on their wedding day, suit shops have increased their ranges and now stock something to suit everyone’s taste.

From traditional to contemporary, plain to patterned, softly understated to brilliantly bold, there’s something for every modern groom!

Shop our extensive range of Hats, Fascinators and Hatinators for special occasions, weddings and races.

Available in a variety of colours with matching bags for some designs. If you can’t find what you are looking for, need help with colours and sizes pop in for a personal shopping experience.

We also stock a wonderful selection of shoes, handbags and accessories, to compliment your outfit. As with the fascinators and hats we can match all colours and find you the perfect look.

We want you to leave our stores with a complete outfit that makes you feel utterly fabulous! 65 High Street

Groom Trends 2024

The modern suit is a trend that has been gaining momentum in recent years and will continue to dominate in 2024. Grooms will opt for suits with slim cuts, clean lines, and innovative designs. Monochromatic suits, in shades of charcoal, navy, or even unconventional colours like burgundy and green, will exude a contemporary and stylish vibe.

Talking of contemporary suits, gone are the days when grooms were limited to black, grey, or navy. In 2024, coloured suits will make a splash, adding personality and character to groomswear. For spring ceremonies, dark green will bring a fresh touch, while pale blue will dominate summer weddings, radiating a cool and breezy feel. Autumn weddings will see the rise of rich hues like plum and burnt orange, adding warmth and depth to the overall look.

Patterns will be a key player in the groomswear trends for 2024. From herringbone jackets to floral and plaid waistcoats. Waistcoats with eye-catching patterns will be used as statement pieces, contrasting beautifully with solid-coloured suits. Floral waistcoats will infuse a romantic and whimsical touch, while plaid patterns will add an air of sophistication and masculinity. These patterned pieces will allow grooms to express their unique sense of style.

In 2024, grooms will pay attention to the finer details, using accessories to enhance their overall look. Patterned ties or textural bow ties will create a memorable impression, and be used to tie the groom’s look in with the rest of the wedding details. Personalised details will be a major trend across all elements of wedding styling, and in menswear it will appear through personalised cufflinks, monogrammed handkerchiefs and jewellery that holds sentimental value. Shoes and buttonholes will be carefully chosen to complement the colour palette creating a polished and cohesive look.

Groomswear trends for 2024 are all about embracing individuality, sophistication, and attention to detail. From modern suits and textured fabrics to coloured ensembles and patterned waistcoats, grooms will have a wide array of options to express their personal style on their wedding day.

Shoes for grooms

The wedding shoe is something of a statement for brides, and should also be for grooms. High shine and the right colour are important for a shoe, and a two tone patina is elegant and highly versatile. Patina shoes, perhaps in a combination of black and brown, work really well with blue suits, and help to take a suit from ‘business-like’ to ‘best day of your life’ fashion.

wedding flowers

The flowers a couple choose for their wedding set the tone for the day. Their choice will influence the colour scheme for the entire day – from the colour worn by the wedding party to the venue décor, right through to the smaller details such as wedding favours. So how do you decide what to go for?

We’ve come up with five crucial areas to consider when selecting your flower.

1. Season

It’s a good idea to take into account the time of year in which your wedding falls and consider which flowers will be in season. As expected, there’s a variety of in-season blooms to choose from during the summer period, but in hot weather delicate flowers like sweet peas will wilt quickly so should be avoided. Other popular bridal flowers such as lilies, orchids and roses are in season all year.

2. Venue

It’s important for your flower arrangements to complement the venue, so it’s worth checking out the interior space before selecting flower type and display size. Make note of any predominant colour schemes you can work with, and to avoid any unfortunate colour clashes with the wallpaper.

3. Theme

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Floral displays need to tie in with the overriding theme of your big day. Whatever your theme the floral look should work in harmony with the overall colour scheme, and so flowers can be a great place to start when drawing inspiration for your big day.

4. You

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Don’t forget that ultimately the wedding flowers you choose should suit you. Remember to take into account hair colour, eye colour and skin tone when selecting a colour scheme, Blues can look great with blue eyes and rich shades like red and purple can compliment a darker complexion, it’s all about discovering what works for you personally.

5. Research

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Get inspired! Visiting a flower show can be a great way to get inspired and pick up new ideas. Books and magazines can be good places to start when planning your wedding flowers and are useful tools to take along to your florist.

Garters - revealed!

The wedding garter is a key component of a bride’s wedding day attire, hidden underneath her gown, waiting for the groom to retrieve it and toss to all the single men at the reception. The garter toss is an integral part of the wedding day, yet many women partake in this old wedding tradition without really understanding its history and meaning. With so many varieties, styles and colours, you’ll want to make sure you select an appropriate one for your wedding. We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about the wedding garter so you can choose the right one for your big day.

Wedding garter history and meaning

Hundreds of years ago, there were many superstitions and beliefs surrounding the wedding day. One superstition was that owning a piece of the wedding dress would bring good luck, leading to wedding guests essentially attacking the bride to rip off a piece of her gown. This led to brides wearing a specific article of clothing to be given out as the lucky piece: the garter. Another belief was that the garter was a symbol of the newlyweds consummating their marriage, so family and friends would take the garter as proof of consummation. Both of these ancient beliefs result in the garter being removed from the bride and given to someone who attended the wedding.

Wedding garter tradition

Today, the removal of the garter is reserved for the groom. There is typically a time set aside during the reception for the groom to do so in front of all of the witnesses, followed by the groom tossing the garter to all the unmarried bachelors in the crowd. Usually the bride will perform the bouquet toss first, then the groom will do the garter toss. This garter toss is very similar to the bouquet toss in that it is said that whoever catches the garter will be the next man to be married. The man who caught the garter will then place the garter on the woman who caught the bouquet.

How to wear a wedding garter

The function of a garter is to hold up stockings on the bride’s legs. Therefore, there is no correct leg to wear it on. You may choose to wear your garter on either your left or your right leg based on your personal preference. Many brides choose to wear two garters: one to toss, and one to keep. If this is the case, you should wear both garters on the same leg with the tossing garter placed lower than the keeper garter. The most important thing is to make sure your partner knows which leg it’s on so that he can retrieve it easily when the time comes.

Wedding garter styles

You want to make sure that you don’t wear your garter too high or too low, so generally the best spot for it is just above your knee. This way it won’t cut off circulation or rub against the other leg and it also won’t slip off. However, you can try it on in a few different locations to see what is most comfortable for you. If you are planning to have photos taken of you with your dress lifted to reveal your garter, you’ll want to place it low enough so that you don’t accidentally flash the photographer when you’re taking the pictures. Keep in mind that when your partner goes to remove the garter, all of your guests will be watching so having it a bit lower so that you don’t show anything indecent is a good idea.

How to choose a wedding garter

Because the wedding garter is hidden underneath your wedding dress, you can choose one that fits your personality. You might want to choose a simple white one to follow tradition, or you can choose a sexy one that will look great in photos. You can even incorporate your something blue into your outfit with a blue wedding garter. Today, there are many different styles of garters and garter sets to fit every bride’s tastes and needs.

Sweet dreams

For many centuries wedding favors have been a part of traditional wedding ceremonies, across a wide range of cultures. Initially wedding favors were an extravagance at celebrations hosted by European upper classes, who had the wealth to provide elaborate gifts to guests.

Early Favors

The early wedding favors began as small fancy boxes, known by their French name of bonbonniere. A bonbonniere was fashioned of crystal, porcelain, or gold, and often encrusted with precious stones. The delicate boxes were meant to hold bonbons or other confectionery delicacies, at a time when sugar was quite expensive. Sugar was also highly valued by all, as it was believed to have medicinal benefits.

Gifts to Guests

The tradition of providing gifts to guests was adopted by individuals of modest means by selecting simple treats as gifts. Every culture across time has a approached marriage as a wonderful event, with the nuptials celebrated throughout the community.

In many societies the bride and groom are associated with good luck, a common thought was that everything they touched would be charmed. By gifting members of the community, they would then pass those same blessings onto others.

Almonds

Many brides would choose to distribute this good luck by preparing a small gift of almonds, beautifully wrapped in an elegant fabric. The custom in the Middle East is for the bride to provide five almonds to represent fertility, longevity, wealth, health and happiness.

For more than a millennium, almonds were commonly given as wedding gifts to the couple, signifying the good wishes on their new life together. In the thirteenth century the practice of coating almonds in sugar became popular, the new confections were

called “confetti”. Over time, confetti has transformed to Jordan almonds, now a staple of many wedding celebrations.

The combination of the almond and candy signify the bitter sweetness of marriage. Today, Jordan almonds provide one of the most common and traditional wedding favors when they are wrapped in small bundles of delicate fabric or lace and tied with ribbon. Though the most traditional of wedding favors are still appreciated, a bride is only limited to her imagination when it comes to selecting the gifts that will demonstrate esteem from the blessed couple.

Modern Favors

Since the sixteenth century, bridegroom couples have been giving gifts to wedding guests as a gesture of gratitude for sharing in the beginning of their new life together. Today, gifts to the guests are known as wedding favors and are commonplace in ceremonies worldwide. The small gifts may vary according to the culture, wealth and the interests of the couple, or theme of the wedding.

Choosing a Favor

When it comes to the decision for the right wedding favor, the options are unlimited. A beautifully decorated placecard at the reception table, can make a lovely and inexpensive memento. For couples with larger budgets, a vintage bottle of wine with a personalized label is an excellent way of commemorating the event. Frequently a bride may select wedding favors intended to complement the décor of the reception table.

Our Town Crier is always dressed to impress

WhenI was appointed Bromsgrove’s Town Crier in 1985, we thought about the height of town crying, settling on 1775 before universal education and newspapers really came in.

We visited Fashion Museum Bath for the original patterns of a gentleman’s day dress and that is what I now use. It is absolutely what would have been worn in those days, just in modern fabrics so that it can be thrown in the washing machine!

The coat, waistcoat and breeches were made by Janet Lee of Cofton Hackett, an ex-costumier for the BBC with fabrics from the Fancy Silk Store in Birmingham. The socks are from Bromsgrove Sports and the collarless, tied shirts, neckerchief and shoes are from the Re-Enactment Fair at Ryton.

All the colours relate to Bromsgrove. Green and silver are Bromsgrove’s colours, green for agriculture and silver for manufacturing. The hat and coat are adorned with historic buttons with the boar crest of Bromsgrove Court Leet made at Sanders Button Factory when it was based in Willow Road.

The medallion of office is a bell-shaped horse brass that was adopted by the Guild of Town Criers as crier’s insignia. above it is the Bromsgrove boar emblem and the badge of the Guild of Town Criers.

The bell holster and separate scroll holster were both beautifully made and adorned by Martin Connellan, the Bromsgrove Cobbler. The calligraphy on the front of the scroll was hand scribed by my mother and the scroll handles were made by a friend of my parents who could only work with one hand.

The bell handle was replaced in an absolute panic by Reg Sherwin, the woodturner of Avoncroft, 24 hours before I was due to fly to Canada for the World Championships in 1993.

While it may look hot in sunny weather, it isn’t. It’s what would have been worn and is comfortable and immensely practical. Just don’t ask what’s secreted in the poacher’s pockets.

I was proud to be named the best dressed town crier at Warwick Town Crier’s Competition this year because my outfit is all pertinent to Bromsgrove.

by Kevin Ward

Looking for food catering or holding a private event this summer?

We at Butcher’s Block offer a wide range of catering services and offer a bespoke menu for each event.

Whether you need gluten free, vegan/ vegetarian options or just a good old fashioned buffet, our in house chef Lilith, makes everything herself using the great British produce We sell in store.

We work with Meadow Mill Bakery and Barrett’s Fruiterers Limited, both from Bromsgrove market , to guarantee fresh local quality every time.

If you’re interested in finding out more about our hot and cold catering, get in touch direct or nip in to the high street and visit us in store.

Why your body needs whole food-based vitamins

Did you know that our standard western diet lacks many key nutrients because of depleted soil and modern-day farming and food processing?

Whole-food nutrients come naturally paired with their cofactors that increase absorption. This is why we need whole food-based vitamins and minerals as supplements rather than synthetic forms that the body has difficulty absorbing.

VIA Source is a plant-based micronutrient and mineral food supplement with a unique blend of superfoods, glycoprotein ferments, plant extracts, trace minerals, and the proprietary BioVia™ Source complex, which delivers the necessary components to ensure maximum bioavailability of all nutrients found in VIA Source.

Source is a formulated combination for optimum bioavailability for our bodies to assimilate natural sources of nutrients. Natural foods contain key vitamins along with their cofactors and other nutrients that are found in food and work with each vitamin to increase its absorption.

An orange, for example, contains plenty of vitamin, but it’s also rich in bioflavonoids, which help the body absorb that vitamin C. Vitamins in nature don’t stand alone, they are present along with essential trace minerals, phytonutrients, and other vitamins in combinations the body needs as nutrition.

What is unique about VIA Source is that it is expertly formulated, not only with a comprehensive variety of vitamins and minerals that our bodies need, but it has cofactors that increase bioavailability. This is achieved by using these techniques.

• Glycoprotein ferment matrix - They use a nutritional yeast grown in a specialised environment high in vitamins and minerals. Like a plant taking nutrients from the soil as it forms fruits and vegetables, the yeast takes up these nutrients as it grows, creating a glycoprotein matrix, and leaving bioavailability, easyto-digest vitamins.

• Meticulous sourcing - ASEA is committed to selecting the most readily absorbable form of nutrients in VIA Source. The choice used for calcium and magnesium are from bioavailable, natural red algae extract and selected superfoods (acerola, pomegranate) from around the world to its unique profile.

• B complex vitamins – These have an essential function in biochemical processes. Extracts of holy basil, lemon, and guava, known to be high in B vitamins, are used in a ferment extraction process to obtain the B-complex vitamins in VIA Source.

• Superfoods – These are considered the most nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, and plants from around the world. Each of the superfoods in VIA Source has been chosen for its array of concentrated phytonutrients. VIA Source is naturally high in flavonoids and proanthocyanins.

BioVia™ Source Complex contains a unique blend of enzymes that are added to act as biocatalyst, facilitating digestion processes of starches, fats, and proteins.

VIA Source is 100% vegan and non-GMO. Although the product contains wheat grass, it is gluten free. It does not contain dairy, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, or peanuts.

For more information visit https://shopasea.com/ need4change

by Colette Garside

A quiet, designated room, with a team of colour technicians and extension experts, who will concur to create the length, volume, colour, shine and swing you’ve always dreamed of!

(Hair extensions are expensive!!! There’s no other way of saying it!!)

However, we now offer a very sensible payment plan.

Don’t dream it live it!

Chandler Court care home, Bromsgrove

Reminiscence café

Last Friday of each month, 2pm - 4pm

Come along to our monthly dementia -friendly café. Join like-minded members of the community, share experiences and pick up a copy of our free dementia guide. Meet our friendly team, on hand to answer any concerns you may have, learn more about dementia care at Chandler Court and take a tour of our beautiful care home. Trusted to care.

To attend please call 01527 903634 or email rebecca.pearce@careuk.com

Dementia care, led by experts

At Chandler Court care home in Bromsgrove, we are committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred dementia care. Guided by the latest academic evidence, our dementia specialists support each resident to live life to the full.

Purpose-built facilities

Chandler Court care home has been purposebuilt, with both luxury and comfort in mind. Everything from colour schemes, signage, and furniture to the design of our crockery, has been carefully chosen to support residents living with dementia live as independently as possible.

Each floor at Chandler Court is divided into smaller suites that create a calm atmosphere, keeping hustle and bustle to a minimum.

Chandler Court also has a Namaste care room and trained Namaste care practitioners, who provide a calming sensory experience using soothing lighting and gentle hand massage, for people living with advanced dementia.

Care you can trust

We work with academic partners and respected leaders in the field, to ensure we stay up to date with the latest approaches to care. The Association of Dementia Studies at The University of Worcester helps us to create a bespoke training programme, whilst Dr Nori Graham - a renowned dementia expert and Vice President of The Alzheimer’s Society - assists in developing a holistic and forward-thinking approach to the delivery of dementia care.

Suzanne Mumford - Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia at Care UK - closely supports colleagues at every level to implement and review care practices that help us deliver the very best of care for people living with dementia.

Living well with dementia

Our dedicated team work with you and your loved one to deliver a care and lifestyle plan entirely tailored to their unique needs and preferences. Our busy activities schedule is always packed with meaningful activities that support your loved one to lead a fulfilling lifestyle.

Our newly refurbished, Dementia-friendly suite offers interactive ‘life skills’ stations for residents living with Dementia to enjoy, including craft and embroidery stations, doll therapy stations and gardening stations.

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 8,000 families trust us to care for their older loved ones.

To find out more about the quality Dementia care on offer at Chandler Court care home, call 01527 903670.

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

AI talk guides student Aoife to victory

Bromsgrove Methodist Church hosted Soroptimist International Midland Arden Region’s public speaking competition, which celebrated its 20th anniversary this year.

The topic chosen by winner Aoife McNamara from Langley School, Solihull, was: Artificial Intelligencefriend or foe?

Aoife was among ten competitors from schools in Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Stourbridge, Stratford upon Avon, Kenilworth, and Solihull who had four minutes to speak on a chosen subject from a list of seven. They were judged on three criteria: presentation, confidence, and content.

In second place was Evie Hodgetts from South Bromsgrove High School, with Ella Bartlett from Stratford School in third. All competitors received certificates and a £25 book token. The winners also received trophies along with cheques for £150, £75, and £25 respectively.

The overall aim of the competition is to foster presentation and communication skills in young people, as all walks of life, especially the business world, are increasingly reliant on these abilities.

Jo Slade, chairman of Bromsgrove Society said: “I

was delighted to be invited to the 20th anniversary public speaking competition to welcome Soroptimists and competitors to Bromsgrove.

“It was a very enjoyable event, with an extremely high calibre of young people, who all did extremely well speaking on their chosen topic. These platforms are so important for young people to challenge themselves and compete against their peers from other schools. My congratulations go to the team who organised an excellent event, with thanks for choosing a venue in Bromsgrove.”

Soroptimist clubs all over the world work on grassroots projects that help women and girls achieve their individual and collective potential, realise aspirations, and have an equal voice in communities worldwide. They are involved in International Women’s Day, International 16 Days of Action to eliminate gender-based violence and many others around the world.

For more information, visit www.soroptimistinternational.org

Full house audience enjoys Annual Lecture

The 37th Bromsgrove Lecture “Broadcasting to the World: the Wychbold Masts Reach Every Corner” hosted by the Bromsgrove Society, was presented by Alastair Moseley to a sell out audience in Routh Hall.

The fascinating talk about the history of the transmitters which signify “home” for so many of us in Bromsgrove, was enjoyed by 260 people in the hall and many who tuned in to watch via a live stream. Prior to the presentation the audience were treated to live music from the Orchestra of St John who performed Eric Coates’ The Merrymakers Overture and Three English Dances by Roger Quilter. These pieces were the first items broadcast “Live from London” by the BBC via the Wychbold Transmission Masts at 3.45pm on Thursday 6th September 1934, when the music was performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

Alastair’s presentation covered the development of the 55.5 acre site and details of how the 700ft tall

masts were built, including archive footage of them being built – in the days before health and safety of workers was a consideration! He talked about the reasons why Wychbold was chosen as the site for the transmission masts and the building on the site which housed the important operating equipment. The lecture continued through the development of the site, with social galas and open days, to the present day, and anticipated future. The Bromsgrove Society supports an application made by Historic England to list the Wychbold Masts as a structure of historic importance and interest to be retained.

The 37th Lecture will be made available to watch on the Society’s YouTube channel. See the website www.bsoc.co.uk for more information.

by Jo Slade

Ancient traditions continue in Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove Court Leet held its Annual Spring Court meeting in the New Guesten Hall at Avoncroft Museum on Thursday 11th April.

At the meeting the business of the Court was heard, the members of the Jury were sworn in through an oath to serve the Court and the King and the Tythingmen presented their list, as it has been done in the town for 825 years.

The Treasurer announced that £2501 had been raised for charities in the year when Robert Bird was Bailiff. These funds will be distributed between Avoncroft Museum, the Friends of St John’s for the Spire Appeal and Dodford Children’s Farm, the three charities chosen by the Bailiff for his year in office.

The current Bailiff, Philip Thomas, reported on activities in his year so far and gave an update on the archiving project taking place through Explore The Past at The Hive in Worcester. Volunteers from the Court are cataloguing documents relating to Court proceedings, some of which date back to the 1300s. Once the cataloguing project is completed, the documents will be available for anyone to view at the Archive Department at The Hive.

During the meeting new members were introduced into the court, or proposed as future members.

Award winning Butcher Michelle Holsey-Sheppard from Butcher’s Block on Bromsgrove High Street was sworn in as the Tythingman for the Tutnall yield, following a proposal by the Bellman Kevin Ward which was seconded by Tythingman Sue Norton. Tythingman Cyril Day was nominated by the Headborough

Charlie Ayres and seconded by the Custodian of the Records Jo Slade, to become a Member of the Jury.

Two proposals were put forward for Completely Bromsgrove’s Editor Michele Ford and Catshill businessman Mike Webb to join the Jury. All voices in the Court were in favour of the proposals and both will be sworn in at the Autumn Court, held in November.

Bailiff Philip Thomas said “I am so pleased that our membership continues to grow with people from the town who are already well known and well respected for their support of our community here in Bromsgrove. In the past, shopkeepers and news reporters have been members of the Court, so I am delighted we are upholding the tradition.”

This year’s annual Fair Day will take place on Saturday 22nd June, when the members of Bromsgrove Court Leet will process through the town and the Elizabethan Market will be held. Find out more at www.bromsgrovecourtleet.co.uk

by Jo Slade

State of the Art Survey at St John’s

Ateamof three experts from the University of Wolverhampton School of Architecture and the National Brownfield Institute have supported the Spire Appeal at St John’s with laser and digital surveys of the ancient church building.

Using state of the art equipment, the team from the University carried out a digital survey to produce a 3D point cloud image of the building. The architect and structural engineer working on the spire project have used the images to produce drawings with pinpoint accuracy. The team also created a Matterport 3D virtual tour of St John’s which will allow people to view inside the building and learn about its artifacts and monuments from anywhere in the world via the internet, furthering the reach of heritage engagement with the building.

The National Brownfield Institute is fully funded by the Government’s Getting Building fund and aims to support small businesses and charities with the cutting-edge technology. The team used a range of equipment including a Faro terrestrial laser scanner which can record up to 1 million measurements per second along with Leica and NavVis devices which take approximately 0.5 million measurements whilst the user walks, using a technique called Simultaneous Location and Mapping (SLAM). The use of a drone survey enables a 3D model of the higher parts of the building to be generated, using a process called photogrammetry.

The survey work took place over two days on site, and many hours spent in front of a computer screen to complete the work. The result is invaluable to the team at the Friends of St John’s, as they work towards the urgent spire repair project. Having the entire building surveyed – both inside and outside –means that any further projects will benefit from this work, saving time and money in the future.

Professor David Heesom, an expert in Digital Built Environments, who is leading the project on behalf of the University of Wolverhampton and National Brownfield Institute said “This is a fantastic opportunity to digitally capture an amazing building with such rich architectural and cultural heritage. The

technologies which are now available to support the digitisation of the built environment are continually evolving and this provides lots of exciting research opportunities for our team. It’s wonderful to be able to put some of that knowledge and research into practice and support St John’s as they embark on the next stage in their history.”

On Saturday 25th May at St John’s Church harpists from Birmingham Conservatoire will perform for the Cake and Coffee Concert at 10.30am which will be followed by an Open Day with a chance to learn about the appeal, climb the tower, ring the bells and have a go at heritage based activities. Find out more via www.facebook.com/ FriendsStJohnsBromsgrove or make a donation at www.justgiving.com/ campaign/stjohns-spire

by Jo Slade

The team wih 3D camera

Raise a glass to the pubs of yesteryear

In The Bromsgrove Society’s history of the town, published in 2022, the longest chapter –running to 32 pages – is devoted to ‘Inns and Innkeepers, Pubs and Publicans’. And for good reason: Bromsgrove was once a town full of public houses.

Coaching inns were some of the earliest hostelries. Bromsgrove stood on a number of important coaching routes, with regular services to London, Birmingham, Worcester, Bristol and elsewhere. At its height around 1830, over 20 stagecoaches a day were calling at Bromsgrove’s principal inns.

Probably the busiest of the town’s coaching stops was the Crown Inn, which stood next to what is now the former home of Midland Bank. It is mentioned in documents as early as 1616. By 1714 Nicholas Horniblow was the tenant and he rented land on the other side of the Spadesbourne Brook known as Crown Close. As stagecoach traffic increased, Crown Close provided vital stabling for the horses and it remained an important facility for the town well into the 20th century. The Crown itself was demolished in 1966 to make way for new stores on the High Street.

The George Inn was another important hostelry. Its coach entrance to Crown Close can still be seen in the alleyway known as Clegg’s Entry. This derives from John Clegg, a tea dealer, who was one of several tradespeople to occupy the premises after the inn closed in the late 18th century.

A new, much smaller George Inn was subsequently built at the corner of Worcester Street and St John’s Street, and was later rebuilt as the George Hotel. The site is now occupied by the Bird Box.

While the hotels and coaching inns served weary travellers, a plethora of smaller establishments catered for the townsfolk.

Nailmaking – the town’s signature trade – was a thirsty business and at the end of the day nail-makers across the district would make a beeline for their nearest local. As places where working people gathered, the inns also became focal points for unrest when the nailers started to protest against poor working conditions.

At the top end of town, around the Strand and Stourbridge Road, stood the Pheasant, the Mitre, and the Roebuck Inn. In the High Street itself were the King’s Head, the Bell Inn, the Castle Inn, the Green Dragon, the Dolphin Inn, and the White Hart – to name just a few. On Worcester Street customers had the choice of the Red Lion, the Golden Lion, the White Horse, the Wheatsheaf Inn, the Black Cross, and the Sampson. Virtually all of these are, of course, long gone.

The Inns and Public Houses of Bromsgrove will be one of the topics discussed at this year’s Bromsgrove Summer School. Local historians Jenny Townshend and Julian Hunt will discuss findings from their latest research and will lead a town walk.

The Summer School runs over three days from July 9 to 11. Other topics this year are ‘The Canal World’ and ‘Benjamin Sanders and Button Making in Bromsgrove’. Visit www.bsoc.co.uk for further details.

by Mike Sharpe

The Black Cross, Worcester Street

The Green Dragon, High Street

Support your local hospice in Yellow Week

Show your colours and get involved in Yellow Week to raise awareness and funds for Primrose Hospice & Family Support Centre.

From June 17th to 23rd, the Bromsgrove-based hospice will be turning yellow to celebrate and promote the vital services and support it provides for the community.

Could you hold your own Yellow Week event or fundraiser with your family, friends, workplace, school, or club?

Whether you are a keen baker and choose to hold a yellow-themed bake sale or prefer to organise a yellow fancy dress party or dress down day at school, now’s the time to do it.

Lucy Perkins, fundraiser at Primrose Hospice said: “We always look forward to Yellow Week as it gives us the

chance to get out and about among the community and local businesses who support us throughout the year.”

The hospice would love to hear what you are planning and support you with your activity.

For more information on how to sign up, visit: www. primrosehospice.org/events/yellow-week or call 01527 889796

Every penny raised through Yellow Week will help Primrose Hospice to support more families and people living with life-limiting illnesses.

Live music and murder at Artrix in May

There’s plenty to enjoy at Artrix during May. Music to get the audience on their feet, dancing the night away and the chance to solve a Murder Mystery!

Saturday 4th The Opera Boys present a Night at the Musicals. After a sold out show in 2023 The Opera Boys are back with A Night at the Musicals, a fabulous evening of power-house vocals, immaculate 4-part harmony, breath-taking musical medleys, stunning solo performances… and a few surprises.

Thursday 16th sees Country Superstar take to the stage for a night in tribute to Dolly Parton and Friends. The show features Award Winning Impersonations of Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Billie Jo Spears, Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks, John Denver, and all the country music favourites. Each artist not only looks and sounds like the country star they portray, these professional performers transform themselves through hours of practice at their craft. It’s an evening of million-selling hits drawn from a repertoire that includes 9 to 5, Stand by Your Man, and Rhinestone Cowboy. A must see for any fans of country music!

Saturday 18th Darkside the Pink Floyd Show – The Hopeful and the Damned Tour will bring an electrifying night to Bromsgrove. A night of wonderful Pink Floyd music, including the entire

The Dark Side of the Moon album in glorious quadraphonic sound, along with selections from across their career. The show includes a spectacular laser and light show and evocative images and animated sequences projected onto a circular screen, which were key features of Pink Floyd’s live performances.

Friday 31st enjoy a live improvised murder mystery in The Studio . A night of stories, laughter, games… and death. With no script and no plot, Foghorn Unscripted and the audience create a classic whodunnit. Who dies horribly? Who is the murderer? What awful secrets are revealed? You, the audience, are the puppet masters and the characters’ fates are in your hands! You can enjoy a good old-fashioned night of murder, mystery and mayhem, served up with a generous helping of jokes.

Tickets for all the events are available via the online box office at www.artrixbromsgrove.co.uk

Keep up to date on social media www.facebook. com/artrixbromsgrove and Instagram

@artrix_bromsgrove - don’t forget to tag Artrix when you post from the show!

by Jo Slade

THUR 23 MAY

Critically acclaimed comedy gives joy all year round

festive period endured by cantankerous Professor Hunham (Paul Giamatti) who is tasked with looking after wayward student Angus on campus over Christmas.

though it’s not Christmas. A hugely entertaining film that’s gathered armfuls of awards including Oscars and Baftas.

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 feckenodeon.co.uk , by phone on 0333 666 3366 or in person at The Rose & Crown and The Village Shop in Feckenham.

Storytelling trio make welcome return

Songs about cuckolded molecatchers, a lone English oak tree that grows at Gallipoli, care in the community, medieval pilgrims, and Victorian bare-knuckle boxers.

We can only be talking about the acclaimed song and storytelling trio Harp & a Monkey, who are performing at Feckenham Village Hall on Saturday, May 18 at 7.30pm.

The work of Martin Purdy (vocals, glockenspiel, accordion, harmonica, and keyboards), Simon Jones (harp, guitar, viola) and Andy Smith (banjo, melodica, guitar and programming) is imbued with a deep Lancashire sensibility that shines through in their beautifully crafted and sometimes spooky vignettes of life, love and remembrance.

From original compositions to traditional songs, their approach is rooted in integrity. The band, who have been friends for more than 20 years, channel the ghosts of summers spent in municipal parks and winters walking on the moors.

Ask them about their influences and they are as likely to cite Ordnance Survey maps and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission as they are Chris Wood, Bjork, Ewan MacColl, or The Oldham Tinkers.

Harp & a Monkey were the last act to play at Feckenham Village Hall before the pandemic shut us down, so we’re

delighted to be able to welcome them back, hopefully under happier circumstances.

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

Local flower club springs into summer

oin Bromsgrove Flower Club members at All Saints Hall in Burcot Lane on Thursday, May 16th at 2pm to welcome Coral Gardiner and her demonstration of “Spring into Summer”

Coral’s gardening knowledge, sense of fun and humour will ensure a memorable afternoon’s entertainment. As well as being a talented flower arranger and storyteller, Coral has featured in a Christmas edition of BBC’s Countryfile and was also part of the South West team that won gold at the Chelsea Flower Show.

For this month’s competition, members are being invited to produce a sensory arrangement to celebrate Dementia Awareness Week.

There will also be a collection for this important charity.

Members are asked to bring something pretty from their gardens for the flower of the month table. Both competitions will be awarded a free raffle ticket.

The club offers a complimentary cuppa, friendly company, a sweepstake to win, and Coral’s beautiful arrangements will be raffled at the end of the afternoon.

Full details are available on the club’s Facebook page.

See indie delights and

A

n evening of American indie songs from Maryland-born singer-songwriter Tyler Massey and the Tyler Massey Quartet is Bromsgrove Arts’ offering on Saturday, May 11th.

The quartet evolved organically over a period of several years, coalescing around the unaffected catalogue of songs written by guitarist Tyler Massey. Employing the bass and production skills of Alex Knight, the pair made the EP American Nightmare in 2017, with the help of drummer Morris Windsor (The Soft Boys, Robyn Hitchcock and recently with Kimberley Rew).

Before the duo’s next effort All The Pretty Lights (2019), they were permanently joined by another of TM’s long-term musical allies, Eric Hej on percussion. They started playing almost constantly as an acoustic trio (TMT), clocking dozens of wellreceived performances in the West Midlands.

In 2023, the line-up was completed by another of TM’s friends from his early days in the UK, Ralph Jackson on alto/tenor sax and flute. Armed with a new sound and propelled by a handful of

unforgettable new songs, they have become a compelling live act.

The film Elvis (12A) on Sunday, May 12th at 7.30pm explores the life and music of Elvis Presley (Austin Butler), seen through the prism of his complicated relationship with his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). The story delves into the complex dynamic between Presley and Parker spanning over 20 years, from Presley’s rise to fame to his unprecedented stardom. Central to that journey is one of the most significant and influential people in Elvis’s life, Priscilla Presley (Olivia DeJonge).

some big screen belters

The dark comedy drama French Exit (15) is being shown on Wednesday, May 15th at 7.30pm. Based on the novel of the same name by Patrick deWitt, the film tells the story of a Manhattan heiress Frances Price (Michelle Pfeiffer) who moves to Paris with her son (Lucas Hedges) with the little money they have left. They stay in a small apartment owned by a friend, with the family cat, who happens to be Frances’ reincarnated husband.

There’s an Alfred Hitchcock classic to enjoy on Wednesday, May 22nd at 2.30pm, when Rear Window (PG) is screened. Professional photographer L.B. “Jeff” Jefferies (James Stewart) breaks his leg while getting an action shot at an auto race. Confined to his New York apartment, he spends his time looking out of the rear window observing the neighbours. He begins to suspect that a man across the courtyard may have murdered his wife. Jeff enlists the help of his high society fashion-consultant girlfriend Lisa Fremont (Grace Kelly) and his visiting nurse Stella (Thelma Ritter) to investigate.

Ending the season of big screen musicals is the legendary Broadway musical theatre classic 42nd Street on Sunday, May 26th at 7.30pm.

Telling the story of Peggy Sawyer, a talented young performer with stars in her eyes who gets her big break on Broadway, this is the largest ever staging of the Tony Award-winning musical and it was filmed live at the magnificent Theatre Royal Drury Lane in the heart of London’s West End.

Bromsgrove Arts – the home of Fairfield Flicks & Fairfield Musicis 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.bromsgrovearts.org.uk

Bromsgrove u3a celebrates 40th anniversary

Bromsgrove u3a held its AGM recently, 40 years after its inaugural meeting in March 1984. The AGM is the first in a series of celebratory events including an anniversary garden party and a picnic in the park.

More than 80 people attended to hear a fascinating talk by Quintin Watts on Bromsgrove Guild in the Great War.

Over the year Bromsgrove u3a arrange a programme of 15 talks; ten are at the Methodist Centre and five are on Zoom during the winter months so members can enjoy the talks without leaving home.

A distinctive element of u3a is the range of interest and activity groups. The aim is to learn collectively, sharing our knowledge and skills but having fun at the same time.

When people no longer work full time, they can spend their leisure time meeting new people, making new friends, and learning something new. It’s a great way to keep our

minds active whether it’s learning to play the ukulele or improving our French conversation.

Bromsgrove u3a is one of the oldest in the country. The u3a network began in 1982 and by October 1984 there were 23 registered u3a branches registered nationally, including Bromsgrove. Now there are more than 1,000.

Anthea Whitehead, current chair of Bromsgrove u3a, said: “We owe our founder members a huge debt for their enthusiasm and energy in setting up our u3a. It’s thanks to their dedication in the early days that we are flourishing now, 40 years later.”

For more information, please contact Anthea at antheawhitehead@bromsgroveu3a.org.uk

Reporting without fear or favour

Patrick Burns, the former political editor for BBC West Midlands, is the speaker at the next WORDS event, which takes place in The Learning and Resource Centre at Bromsgrove School on Wednesday, May 15th at 7.30pm.

Patrick has been privileged to be close to so much political history and to those who shaped it.

Much has changed since he entered Broadcasting House as a graduate news trainee, from his early days as a TV news reporter in Belfast when it would have seemed inconceivable that there would ever be a Sinn Fein First Minister, to his arrival in the Westminster lobby when the role of the special adviser or SPAD was just a twinkle in Margaret Thatcher’s eye.

What never changed was his determination to help

his audiences make sense of it all, even when there was little sense to be made of it.

Tickets at £12 each are on sale via www.ticketsource. co.uk - type ‘Without Fear of Favour’ into the search bar- or from WORDS , Sycamore House, Rigby Hall, Rigby Lane, Bromsgrove, B60 2EW. Please make cheques payable to WORDS and include a SAE and your email address.

Access to the venue is via the Worcester Road car park (B61 7HP) and a buggy will be available.

‘Croft eager to shake off soggy pre-season

Following one of the wettest winters on record, the weather continues to hamper preparations for the new season at Avoncroft Cricket Club.

For the second year running, the club are anticipating significant delays to the start of league campaigns in both adult and junior cricket as ground conditions have made it almost impossible for the usual pre-season work on the cricket square and outfield to go ahead.

Subject to conditions drying out, the first home game at Croft’s Stoke Heath ground is due to take place on Saturday, April 27th when the First XI play hosts to Martley.

The Second and Third XIs begin their league campaigns on May 4th with two home fixtures; the Seconds host Pershore Fourth XI on the club’s main ground while the Thirds host Oldswinford Fourth XI at their regular home at Winterfold School.

Croft’s Sunday friendly XI have to wait another week before welcoming Hockley Heath Exiles to Avoncroft on May 12th.

Once the season does start, Avoncroft will be happy to welcome visitors to pop across to experience the delight of watching local village cricket on a warm summer’s day (if we ever get any!).

Junior training is due to start on Friday evenings from April 26th, however members are advised to keep their eyes on the club’s various social media platforms for updates given the current ground conditions.

The club still has some capacity at several junior age groups and is particularly keen to hear from girls aged between seven and eleven who may be interested in getting in to cricket. For more information, please contact the club through the Avoncroft Play Cricket website.

In positive news, the club has recently had confirmation that they have been successful in a grant application to replace their artificial wicket, which will make a big difference to both playing and training opportunities.

The next fundraising project will be to generate funds to purchase a roll-on net to be used with the new wicket during training sessions. If anyone is interested in supporting the club with sponsorship, please make contact through their website for a conversation.

by Paul Athey

Nervous end to season for Sporting FC

At the time of writing, Bromsgrove Sporting are not mathematically safe from relegation but the two clubs below them, Hitchin Town and AFC Sudbury will need to win both of their remaining matches and for Sporting to lose both for the Rouslers to go down.

The Victoria Ground outfit could have avoided a nail-biting end to the season but four straight losses including one at home against Sudbury when a draw would have been enough to ensure football at the same level next season.

Bizarrely, Sporting managed to beat runaway league champions Needham Market 3-0 with arguably their best performance of the season but that victory was followed by more narrow defeats and failure to score despite creating good chances.

There was better news for Bromsgrove Sporting Ladies who won their division in style by overcoming second place Malvern Town Women 5-0 in their final match.

The win meant that they ended the season unbeaten in the league registering 13 wins and just one draw. They now have to compete in the play-offs to decide

which team wins the league title as well as competing in the league cup.

Bromsgrove Sporting Veterans still have eight league matches to play and a couple of wins from those games could ease the threat of relegation.

Planning for the next campaign is already underway and Sporting have decided to field an under 21s team next season who will play matches on Saturday mornings with home games at the Victoria Ground. There has been a lot of interest after an appeal for players on the website and social media. Trials begin shortly.

All information about Bromsgrove Sporting teams can be found at www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk as well as on Facebook, X and Instagram. Enquiries can be emailed to hello@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

Photos by Chris Jepson by Phil Baker

Bromsgrove Sporting Ladies

SUBARU OUTBACK fuel economy and CO� results (WLTP): Combined 33.0mpg, CO� emissions 193g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes & may not reflect real driving results. Fuel consumption achieved in real life conditions & CO � produced depends on a number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles & vehicle load.

Representative Example based on 8,000 miles per annum. Credit available subject to status. UK residents 18+. This offer excludes fleet sales, is only available through participating Subaru dealers and is not available in conjunction with any other offers unless specified. Crystal White Pearl special paint finish free of charge cross all models. Other special paint finishes charged at £595.00 which is not included in finance example. This credit offer is only available through Subaru Finance provided by International Motors Finance Limited, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. OTR price includes VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund license and first registration fee. Please consult your local Subaru dealer for exact quotation. With Personal Contract Purchase, once you have paid all of your regular monthly repayments you can either 1) Pay the Optional Final Repayment and own the car. Optional Final Repayment includes £10 purchase fee (not included if taken out on 0% APR finance offer). 2) Part exchange the car for a new one (subject to settlement of your existing agreement, new agreements are subject to status). 3) Return the car to Subaru Finance without paying the optional final repayment. Providing you’ve not exceeded the maximum agreed mileage and the car is in good condition (fair wear and tear accepted) you will have nothing further to pay. If the vehicle has exceeded the maximum permitted mileage then a charge of 9.0p on Limited, 10.8p on Field and 11.2p on Touring all inclusive of VAT @20% per excess mile will apply. *Saving of £1,500 (incl. VAT) when you buy a new 2.5i Outback Limited, Field or Touring. †3 services for £299.00 (incl. VAT) offer applicable when you purchase a brand-new Subaru Forester e-BOXER, XV e-BOXER or Outback. All services should be taken at the relevant service intervals - either 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes sooner. All services must be completed by an authorised Subaru Retailer. The customer’s failure to redeem the services within the designated mileage or time will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Available to retail customer only. Does not cover any non-service related parts or repairs or general wear and tear. Servicing is transferable with the vehicle. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Offer ends 31.03.2024.

The BMW X3 - it’s

BMW ownership does something for you. It declares your intention to go for the best and to be guided by good solid common sense, mediated with innate taste.

Behind the wheel of one of this company’s superb products you are very clearly not trying to impress, but at the same time are creating the best of impressions. It comes, as all good things do, at a price: but a sensible one starting at £56,415 and rising to £64,225 with the option packs as fitted to the test car.

With a BMW you know to expect comfort, performance, style, safety, good residuals, and a warm acknowledgement from fellow road users who are rightfully suspicious of undue ostentation and conspicuous flag waving of the parvenu kind.

It comes as no surprise then that the X3 has had so much praise heaped upon it by specialist publications which analyse the quality and characteristics in far more detail than is possible here.

The X3 xDrive 30e M Sport has everything one

expects of an upmarket, luxury family SUV: with the addition of enough bells and whistles to serve a cross channel ferry negotiating busy sea lanes. It’s a sensibly sized car that is easily managed in muddy rural backwaters thanks to all-wheel X drive, congested cities thanks to a beautifully smooth eight speed auto. drivetrain: and - if you wish - that silent electric propulsion you can use because you charged at home the night before your city trip: so that you have about 34 miles of battery power on tap.

On motorways when the 2.0 litre 4 cylinder petrol engine is working effortlessly (combined 181bhp petrol engine and electric 108 bhp) you’ll really appreciate the efficient cabin insulation isolating you from road and wind noise. As captain, you’ll feel completely in control and as comfortable as a first class passenger in a force nine gale.

a beautiful beast!

Driver aids are many and multifarious, ensuring safe and secure passage along highways and byways. You’re safe and secure in all conditions and need not fear whatever adversary the highway gremlin may strew in your path.

Inside this beautifully constructed SUV it’s solid, airy, and well appointed, with everything being of top quality. There’s lots of room for five to travel at ease and it’s well equipped with comfort features like dual zone climate control and a superb sound system to soothe you.

Performance is brisk for a vehicle of its size with responsive handling and surefooted roadholding through bends. The adventurous can travel at 130mph if they wish and if one is in a thrusting mood, 60mph can be reached in a whoosh. Much more importantly, throttle response and overtaking ability enable distances to be covered surprisingly rapidly.

During the test your correspondent did not ‘spare the horses’ having matters of urgency to attend to

at different points of the compass. Of course, these days only the feckless ignore fuel consumption and I have to say that, in its class, the figures are extremely competitive while the performance never leaves one in doubt that whatever the conditions, here is a motor that will deliver. Despite a thoroughly hard gallop, economy for me neared 50mpg (BMW quite rightly claims over 128.4 mpg overall if you just use electric power for ‘back and forth’ - but that’s if you let the petrol go stale).

What a splendid car to drive. Smooth linear torque and an engine willing to spin freely makes one wonder just how much more refined ICE engines can get. No one could justifiably criticise this X3 for any aspect of propulsive refinement.

Politicians today bang on about ‘change’, but quite frankly where this BMW X3 is concerned, I wouldn’t change a thing.

by Syd Taylor

Motor Museum exhibit features industry icons at work

Almost three years since the office of Herbert Austin was painstakingly packaged up from inside the Longbridge plant, a new exhibit – the offices of Herbert Austin and William Morris side by side – has opened at the British Motor Museum.

Austin’s office, which has been carefully reconstructed, shows visitors the office as it was when Austin was running the show, with all his fixtures and fittings. Known by the workforce as ‘The Old Man’s Office’ it was the place where many of Austin’s important decisions were made.

The office will be displayed alongside Morris’s office, a long-term exhibit of the museum relocated from Cowley in 1994, now repositioned and refreshed. Together they tell the story of these two famous contemporaries and extremely influential characters in Britain’s motor industry, offering an unrivalled opportunity for the public to connect with the stories of Austin and Morris.

The project was completed due to the significant support of The Patrick Foundation which funded the reconstruction of this historic office.

Cat Boxall, curator at the British Motor Museum, said: “It’s an honour to be the new home for the office of Herbert Austin. We’re very excited that we can

Amy Forster-Smith, Assistant Curator and Stephen Laing, Head of Collections

display it alongside William Morris’ office, a long-time feature of the museum. Both offices will become great additions to the extensive range of artefacts held in the collections from the histories of Longbridge and Cowley.

“Visitors will also be able to enjoy seeing the onemillionth car produced by Austin from 1946 along with some of Austin’s personal possessions and papers. Also on display will be the first bicycle made by Morris, and a range of other keepsakes that have been cared for in the museum. These exhibits will enable the public to learn more about the important impact they had on Britain’s motor industry.”

For more information call 01926 895300 or visit www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk