Completely Bromsgrove June 24 Issue 62

Bromsgrove Completely

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District council chair for the second time

The Chair of Bromsgrove District Council has been appointed with Councillor Sam Ammar wearing the chain for the second year in a row.

Age UK, the Bromsgrove Redditch and Wyre Forest branch, continues to be Councillor Ammar’s chosen charity.

At the Annual Council meeting Councillor Bakul Kumar was also appointed as Vice-Chair, again for the second year running.

Councillor Ammar said: “This is an absolute honour and I thank my fellow councillors for putting their faith in me once again.

“I am looking forward to the year ahead, to continue to get out into our district and meet the people, businesses and organisations who help to make Bromsgrove such an exciting place to live.

“Supporting our local Age UK branch for another year is also a privilege and I look forward to planning exciting fundraising events over the next 12 months.”

Welcome to the June issue of Completely Bromsgrove

We begin by sending our best wishes to Sam Ammar, who has successfully been voted in for a second term as Chair of Bromsgrove District Council. I’m sure you will all agree that Sam is a great asset to our town. Congratulations, Sam!

The Right Honourable Sir Sajid Javid MP and invited guests recently attended a fundraising event at St John’s Church in aid of the church’s spire appeal. Turn to page 12 to find out how you can donate to this excellent cause.

Moving onto events happening in our district this month, we welcome the return of Bromsgrove Festival, which kicks off in the High Street on Saturday, June 22nd at 12 noon. The festival offers something for all ages and tastes. For the full programme visit www.bromsgrovefestival.co.uk

We are so fortunate in Bromsgrove and the wider community to have a wealth of events taking place this summer.

The ever-popular music in the bandstand in Sanders Park returns on Sunday, June 2nd – visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk for more details – and the Feckenham Wake starts on The Square on Saturday, June 22nd at 12.30pm. Entrance is free – though there is a small charge for parking – and the event promises to be fun for all, especially families.

Let’s hope the sun shines for us this June and we can all enjoy these wonderful occasions.

As always folks, keep it local and support what’s on your doorstep!

With very best wishes

Michele Ford

Jane Clark Property

Residents protest over A38 tree felling

Bromsgrove residents have come out in force over the destruction of trees along the A38 and the ongoing proposed destruction of further trees in relation to the A38 Bromsgrove Route Enhancement Programme.

The 150-year-old poplar tree that stands at the bottom of Stratford Road is to be destroyed to make way for the widening of the road off the Oakalls roundabout. This has been the tipping point for many residents, who are increasingly angry and upset.

Residents have held meetings, have been interviewed by BBC Hereford and Worcester and BBC Midlands Today, showing how passionate they feel about these works.

While residents feel that something needs to be done about increasing traffic flow through Bromsgrove, specifically the A38, which Worcestershire County Council refers to as “the M5 and M42 corridor” , it should not be at the expense of trees and natural habitats.

These plans were proposed before Covid and have changed considerably since then. Having started these works, the county council have already had to alter plans due to them being over budget.

Plans now include cycle paths that go nowhere. While we are all now being encouraged to cycle rather than use our cars, these paths only run part way down the A38 and Stratford Road meaning cyclists will have to venture back onto the busy roads. This is highly dangerous.

While cycling is kinder on the environment, the county council are destroying hundreds of trees272 within a 500m stretch of the A38 have already been felled - with more to go, to make way for these cycle paths.

Environmentally felling these trees is disastrous to our town, the houses that back onto these areas are now more exposed to carbon monoxide and bats, birds and animals using these trees have had their habitats destroyed.

There is a Facebook page “Revise Bromsgrove BREP” along with a X account which contains information on what is happening and allows people to voice their thoughts.

A petition has been set up to persuade the county council to revise these plans and we would encourage everyone to sign to enable us to hold open talks.

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A message from Conservative Party PPC Bradley Thomas

Across our entire area from Bromsgrove town centre and throughout nearby villages across to Hagley, Rubery & Wythall are so many fantastic organisations that local people support and represent.

As a prospective parliamentary candidate standing to be your next MP, one of the most enjoyable and satisfying parts of what I do is meeting some of these local people and hearing more about the great causes that they give their time to.

Our heritage is the foundation upon which our identity as a community is built; it was a pleasure to attend the St John’s Spire Appeal lunch in Bromsgrove and to hear about the excellent progress made in raising £360,000 to support these essential works.

Our emergency services work tirelessly on the frontline keeping us safe and well. Hillside Conservatives hosted a superb community “reunion” dinner in April at the Old Rose and Crown which brought together local people and raised in excess of £1k for the Redditch and Bromsgrove First Responders, a charity whose volunteers provide emergency medical care until the ambulance service resource arrives on scene.

I spent a fascinating day meeting with local police officers and accompanied them on various calls across the district, seeing first hand how they professionally engage with the public to keep us safe.

We also discussed the importance of law and order and how we can tackle crime and antisocial behaviour at source.

This is something that Alex and Elaina at Legacy Martial Arts know well. Their family-run academy in the Old Chapel on Windsor Street teaches children and adults from across our area and supports their personal development and health and wellbeing. With an infectious passion and enthusiasm for what they do it was a delight to meet Alex and Elaina and to hear the stories about lives they’ve already transformed.

Our local economy punches above its weight and on a visit to Kimal, a manufacturing firm producing medical equipment for the NHS and across the rest of the world, I was reminded of this. Throughout my career in business I’ve helped develop skills that support our manufacturers, and I continue to campaign to ensure that local people and businesses across Bromsgrove can prosper.

Finally, on a more international level, I was delighted to meet with Grant Shapps, the Secretary of State for Defence where we discussed the government’s increase in defence spending to 2.5% of GDP. It’s the first job of government to keep us all safe and this uplift in spending to support our armed forces will protect and secure our country in an increasingly volatile world where our freedom is increasingly under threat from malign influences and hostile nation states.

New trains improve the passenger experience

This article is written in the midst of a week of ASLEF drivers strikes and overtime bans, which have caused inconvenience to rail passengers using West Midlands rail services, but we shouldn’t lose sight of the improvements which have been made in 2023 and 2024 to the rolling stock used on the two services travelling to, and through, Bromsgrove and North East Worcestershire.

On the hourly Hereford to Worcester to Birmingham New Street service, the new Class 196 diesel trains started to be introduced in early 2023 and by April 2024 all trains on the service are of this class.

On the two trains per hour Cross City service, which has Bromsgrove and Redditch as its two southern termini and Lichfield Trent Valley as its northern terminus, the new Class 730 electric trains are being introduced gradually throughout 2024 for all services.

Thus, by the end of this year, Bromsgrove and North East Worcestershire will have the benefits of new trains on both our services, improving the quality of journeys and making them less congested because of increased passenger capacity.

More and more rail travel is now being used for leisure and recreational purposes, and Bromsgrove district has a plethora of attractions for day and short stay visitors, many of which are easily accessible by a combination of rail - Bromsgrove has 30 direct connections with other train stations - and connecting bus services, giving

significant opportunities to boost the local economy.

In January, Visit Worcestershire, the county’s official tourism organisation, announced that it had joined forces with West Midlands Rail to encourage rail travel to, and around, the county.

This new partnership will heighten Worcestershire’s visitor destination awareness, including Bromsgrove, and the new fleets of trains will make journeys to the town and district more pleasurable.

Class 196 - West Midlands Railway

Class 730 - West Midlands Railway

Rt Hon Sir Sajid Javid hosts lunch for St John’s Spire Appeal

Long-term supporter of the Friends of St John’s and Bromsgrove’s MP the Right Honourable Sir Sajid Javid hosted a lunch to raise awareness and funds for the urgent appeal at the town’s landmark and historic building.

The business community and key supporters came together on Friday 10th May for an event sponsored by Chartered Accountants Ormerod Rutter and the church’s neighbouring bar The Dry Spy, who also provided lunch for the attendees.

Steve Cowperthwaite and Rob Porter played piano and clarinet as background music during the arrival drinks. Guests had an opportunity to network, meet Sir Sajid and enjoy an excellent lunch before hearing about the Spire Appeal. Sir Sajid spoke to the attendees about his time in Parliament over the past 14 years, before answering questions.

Four students from St John’s Middle School attended the event. They assisted the Town Crier in welcoming guests to the grade 1 listed church building. The students chatted to everyone about their links with the church and to find out their reasons for supporting the Spire Appeal. They each asked Sir Sajid a question after his talk.

Friends of St John’s Chair Jo Slade said “We had a really successful event for the Spire Appeal, and we are

grateful to Sajid for his continued support, and to all the guests for making the time to contribute positively towards our important heritage project. The four students from St John’s Middle School added something special to the lunch, were extremely polite, interesting and engaging. They are a true credit to the school. As the current custodians of the building it falls upon us to ensure St John’s is well maintained and continues to provide a beacon for our town and community for many generations to come.”

The Appeal target is £360,000, required to remove and restore the top 2.5m of the spire. The stonework has cracked due to the rusting of the metal stabilising rod. So far £305,000 has been raised, thanks to local donations and an award of just short of £250,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Heritage engagement events will be held during the Bromsgrove Festival. To find out more and support the appeal can visit www.stjohnsfriends.co.uk

by Jo Slade

GARDENING

Natural fertilisers provide plants with necessary nutrients

In the age of planet awareness, did you know that you can make your own natural fertilisers for your garden?

Not only can it save you money and recycle your waste products, it will also provide your plants with the necessary nutrients they need. There are many materials available; some would usually end up in your compost bin and others are common plants that most of us will have around our growing spaces.

When preparing your own homemade fertiliser, it is important to keep in mind that different plants have different nutritional needs. Always do your research and know what your plants need to thrive.

If you are a coffee drinker, then one of the simplest homemade nitrogen rich fertilisers can be made by using waste coffee grounds. Nitrogen is essential for leafy growth and gives plants a healthy green colour. Simply sprinkle the used coffee grounds around your plants or mix it into the soil before planting. You can also make a liquid fertiliser by steeping used coffee grounds in water overnight and then using this to water your plants. Let’s face it, who doesn’t feel great after a cup of coffee?

For calcium rich fertilisers why not use your old eggshells? Calcium is essential for strong roots and cell development in plants. Crush the eggshells and sprinkle them around the base of your plants or mix them into the soil. If you grind the shells to a fine powder, you can add a teaspoon to a watering can to use as a liquid feed.

Potassium is an essential mineral for flower and fruit

development, so why not make a banana peel fertiliser. This can be done by chopping the skin up and burying it in the soil; to make a liquid fertiliser, put the peels in a tub of water and let the mixture steep overnight.

Kitchen scraps such as carrot tops, lettuce leaves, and grass clippings can also be used to make fertiliser. Chop them up and add them to a compost pile, which can take several months to break down. Once the compost is ready, it can be used as a soil improver to add important nutrients to your garden. Good liquid feeds can be made by steeping nettles or comfrey leaves in water and leaving for a couple of weeks to brew. This makes a great nutrient rich tea, especially good for tomatoes.

It’s important to note that homemade fertilisers may not be as concentrated as commercial fertilisers, so you may need to use more of it. Additionally, it’s also important to not rely solely on homemade fertilisers and use a combination of homemade and store-bought fertilisers for a balanced nutrition for your plants. In conclusion, preparing your own homemade fertiliser is a cost-effective, eco-friendly and fun way to give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive.

Jobs to keep you busy in June

Deadhead roses and check for pests and diseases.

Pinch out the side shoots of tomatoes and once fruits start to appear feed with a liquid feed. Keep the weeds in check.

Harvest beetroot, broad beans, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce and radish.

Support tall perennials like hollyhocks and delphiniums.

Keep those hungry plants fed and you shall reap the benefits.

By Suzi M , garden lover and plotter at Roundhill Allotments

Making friends with molluscs

S nails and slugs probably wouldn’t win a popularity contest but these slowmovers are important creatures in your gardens and greenspaces.

It might surprise you to learn that there are more than 150 species of snail and slug in the UK and that only a few of these pose a challenge to your prize veggies or flowers. They’re gastropods, the name of which comes from the Greek words gaster (stomach) and poda (feet) as it looks like they’re moving around on their stomach (actually a muscular foot).

Most slugs and snails are part of nature’s clean-up crew. With a few exceptions, they feed on rotting plants, fungi, dung and even carrion; once digested, this is fed back as nutrients into the soil. Some feed on algae and lichen and there are even some species, such as the leopard slug, that eat other slugs! Depending on the species, they have between 2000 and 8000 teeth. These are tiny and sit on a ribbon-like structure, called a radula, which they use to rasp food – a little bit like you grating cheese. In turn, slugs and snails are also food for some of our most beloved garden wildlife, whether that be song thrushes and hedgehogs or frogs and toads.

So, they recycle nutrients and are food for other wildlife. They can even help plants to grow – studies have shown that some seeds stand a better chance of germinating if they’ve passed through the gut of a slug first. What about the less-helpful species, though, the ones that rasp away your prize plants? How can you discourage them? After all, they’re only after a bite to eat, just like you and I.

The easiest approach is to pop the right plant into the right space. If you know that you’ve got a big slug population, it’s probably best not to

plant hostas everywhere. Some plants are more susceptible to slug damage so if you can learn to co-exist with your trail-making neighbours by being a bit more flexible with your planting regime, you’ll already be onto a winner. If you have a couple of must-have plants that you know are more attractive to slugs than others, try growing them indoors for as long as you can; young and tender plants are super tasty. Start a compost heap that you can safely rehome plant-munching molluscs to if you spot them on your plants. Above all, please don’t use pesticides, such as slug pellets, as they can cause harm to other wildlife as well as to the recycling molluscs that weren’t interested in your plants in the first place.

You can read more about these amazing creatures and how you can create a garden that’s great for them and for other wildlife too. There’s even a series of free booklets that you can download. Just visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wild-about-gardens

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

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Chandler Court care home, Bromsgrove

Reminiscence café

Last Friday of each month, 2pm - 4pm

Come along to our monthly dementia -friendly cafe. 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.

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 - former chairman of Alzheimer’s Society and honorary Vice-President of Alzheimer’s Disease International - 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

Marvellous molecules are crucial for advancing life

For many months I have been writing about Redox Cellular Communication. This is mentioned on almost a daily basis in the news in relation to health and there is now a White Paper that has just been published about these amazing molecules in regard to their relationship with Glutathione (antioxidant) – the powerhouse of every cell in our body.

Both Bath University and the University of Sydney have looked at Renu 28 and the ASEA drink and their findings have been amazing. These white papers now prove once and for all, that these molecules are in the products and how they activate the genes depending on the body’s needs. When we truly understand the power of what the molecules in ASEA Redox do in our bodies, we would never want to be without it.

In 1998 the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was awarded for the discovery of the first molecular signalling molecules. The prize was shared by three American pharmacologists: Robert F. Furchgott, Louis J. Ignarro and Ferrid Murad (pictured above) for their work on nitric oxide as a signaling molecule in the cardiovascular system.

This was the beginning of an entirely new and exciting field of scientific research. Today, there are hundreds of YouTube videos and thousands of peer reviewed articles on www.pubmed.gov , devoted to the miracle of redox cell signaling. In each cell we have these tiny molecules whose sole purpose it is to transmit information to other cells concerning our health.

When we drink ASEA or use Renu 28 (the topical gel), this causes a cascading effect throughout all the cells within our body. Our

by Colette Garside

own cells make these molecules, and ASEA just augments the number of signalling molecules available to power the signalling capability of the body. The more information the body has, the faster it can react to an infection, injury, or an imbalance in the body. Redox signalling molecules are critical for advancing life.

It has taken ASEA more than 17 years to perfect the process of stabilising these molecules outside of the body. ASEA Redox contains trillions of bioactive redox cell signalling molecules in every bottle and tube of gel that is certified and guaranteed by an independent third party and validated by fundamental research carried out by some of the best universities in the world.

These patented redox signalling molecules are available directly to the public without a prescription through the grassroots network of global person-to-person, word-of-mouth marketing. We are in 33 countries around the world and another 20 are opening this year. Now is the time to join the new health wave for the 21st century.

Starting on the 1st June get 10% off all Skin Care Products and our Vitamin Range. If you go on Subscription you get 20% off.

Visit www.shopasea.com/need4change

Getting a handle on rail heritage

The trustees of the Norton Collection Museum in Bromsgrove were delighted to accept the loan of the regulator handle from Big Bertha, the Lickey Banker steam engine, from Wychbold resident Alastair Moseley.

While the museum already has the dome from Bertha’s whistle, the regulator handle has gone on display alongside the whistle in the refurbished display of Bromsgrove railwayana. Both bear Bertha’s number, 2290.

The Lickey Bank is the steepest mainline gradient in England and Bertha was developed specifically to assist trains going up the bank and to control trains coming down. Technically she was an 0-10-0 and travelled more than 830,000 miles, almost all just up and down the bank between Bromsgrove and Blackwell, from 1919 to 1956.

Alastair is well known in local railway circles having been part of the group which refurbished the graves of railwaymen Scaife and Rutherford in St John’s

Churchyard. He has also donated a unique annotated photograph of Bertha’s cab driving controls, showing all the levers and gauges, and some beautiful technical drawings of Bertha, which are all currently being remounted to create a new special display in the museum.

BR O MS GR OV E

We are focused on the happiness of each and every one of our residents and we love being able to timetable of activities for all to enjoy. & Lodge there is a plethora of opportunity to enable everyone to do so.

M for those living with dementia

Every last Monday of the month, come and join us for an afternoon of singing, dancing and refreshments between 2:00 and 5:00pm Clinic and we’ll be serving light refreshments throughout open week

Find out more about our amazing care home, and what all-inclusive really looks like. telephone: 0121 445 5552, or visit: burcotgrange.co.uk

Memories of a tram to the Lickeys

In the days before mass car ownership and package holidays, Birmingham folk spent their weekends and bank holidays at one of the city’s many parks and open spaces, such as Cannon Hill or Perry Barr. By far the most popular was the Lickey Hills, where the long tram ride added to the excitement.

The Lickeys consists of a wide valley dividing two ranges of hills. On one side is Bilberry Hill, Lickey Warren, Cofton Hill and Pinfield Wood. The higher side comprises Beacon Hill and Rednal Hill. The area comprises approximately 500 acres and then, as now, was mainly wooded but included formal gardens, pools and a waterfall. The River Arrow also has its source on these hills. Between 1887 and 1933, public spirited landowners including members of the Cadbury family gave large sections of the hills to Birmingham City Council to be preserved as public open space.

The main tram route from Birmingham was the nostalgically remembered Number 70 to Rednal. This ran from Navigation Street, out along the Bristol Road to the loop terminus, set in its own gardens, at the foot of the Lickey Hills. Initially, horse-drawn trams and omnibuses were used. In 1901, the Bristol Road route was the first to be electrified to an overhead wire system, although it was not extended to Northfield until 1923, with the final section to Rednal coming a year later.

So great were the numbers of visitors, that extra trams often had to put on for bank holidays, and sometimes it was not until the early hours of the morning that the returning crowds were cleared.

On major holidays, it was possible to buy an excursion ticket on special trams which departed from several areas of the city. To ensure the wellbeing of the passengers, a giant semi-circular shelter was erected and in true tramway tradition it was embellished with ornate scrolls cast into its ironwork.

Sadly, the last tram departed at 10.30pm on July 6th 1952. The shelter was destroyed, the once beautifully laid out terminus was dismantled, and the loop track was taken up for use by a museum. The magic of the trams was no more.

Bromsgrove District Council acquired the terminus from the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority in 1989 to establish a visitor centre. The original toilet block was converted for this purpose, providing a gateway to the Lickey Hills and Bromsgrove.

This first visitor centre was subsequently replaced by a more modern one further up the hills in Warren Lane, although the building remains as the Lai-Ling Restaurant. This, together with the section of tramway points at the rear of the building in Elliot Gardens off Lickey Road, are the only remaining parts of the once grand terminus.

The Lickey Hills Society has recently unveiled the Rednal Trams Information Board at Elliot Gardens, which tells the story of the tram service and its impact on the area.

by Mike Sharpe

Rednal Terminus Loop

Rednal Information Board

Bromsgrove crowned “lovely” during civic visit

Bromsgrove was put on the royal map following a trip to Buckingham Palace by the district council’s civic head.

Council Chair Sam Ammar attended the first garden party of the year hosted by King Charles.

Accompanied by her husband and consort Mohammad Labban, the couple managed to snatch a quick word with the King.

Councillor Ammar said: “The King asked my husband where we had travelled from and he said a lovely place called Bromsgrove. The King agreed that Bromsgrove is indeed lovely!

“The whole event was absolutely wonderful and I felt so privileged to be there and represent Bromsgrove which I am proud to call home.”

Summer Ball returns with Strictly ABBA

Bromsgrove Court Leet invite you to a fundraiser to support two local heritage charities.

On Monday 1st July, in a marquee on the lawns of Bromsgrove School, the UK’s ultimate ABBA tribute group will entertain with all the favourite hits from the worldfamous group.

Starting at 7pm with a bucks fizz reception, the evening will continue inside the marquee where a delicious two course buffet will be served.There’ll be some fundraising games and a silent auction before Strictly ABBA take to the stage for an evening of music and dancing.

The event is organised to support Avoncroft Museum of Buildings and the Spire Appeal at St John’s. Tickets are £55 per person or take a table of ten for £500.

Court Leet Bailiff Phil Thomas said “I’m sure this will be a super evening in Bromsgrove and a chance to support two very worthwhile local charities.”

To book your tickets for this not to be missed event contact Phil on 07836 238429

Celebrate our countryside at annual show

The 77th annual Hanbury Countryside Show on Saturday, July 6th, celebrates rural life in wonderful Worcestershire at the height of British summer. It’s an action-packed, fun-filled day out for the whole family.

TV presenter, Jules Hudson, who proved such a hit with show visitors in 2023, returns as a special guest this year.

Topping the bill in the ETG Civil Engineering Main Arena in 2024 is the exhilarating, fast-paced Shetland Pony Grand National, and if you’ve never seen these plucky little ponies, carrying their pint-sized jockeys in rainbow silks, then you’re in for a treat!

Horses play a major part in this event. Aside from the many ridden and in-hand classes, some of them are qualifiers for the London International Horse Show, you’ll be able to watch exciting show jumping competitions and see the gentle giant Shire Horses in the Midlands Heavy Horse Show too.

Also new for 2024 is the Tela Technology Sheep Shearing Competition - thrilling, edge of your seat entertainment for all ages.

Last year, award-winning Attwell Farm Park brought a menagerie of animals to the show, and what a brilliant interactive experience it was. Back by popular demand this year, the mini-version of the farm park is a chance to get up close and personal with furry friends.

- is provided by the owners of the enormous and truly magnificent steam engines (sponsored by BTE Plant Sales), farm machinery, vintage vehicles and classic cars and bikes. Hanbury’s beloved bandstand, kindly sponsored by Fews Marquees, is the place to enjoy a lovely programme of entertainment. Aside from resident songstress, Helen Pearson, the Laurel and Hardy Do Devon! tribute act are back and are joined by Karen Carpenter tribute, Anne Marie Marlow, The Ballard Singers, and SKAvengers - a live ska and reggae show.

Other show highlights include a full programme in the Carter Jonas Talks Theatre, delicious Worcestershire food and drink, a Gundog Scurry, horticulture, floral art, cookery, crafts, farriery, and other country skills demonstrations, among others. Shopaholics can enjoy some retail therapy from around 200 trade stands. There’s a selection of fun things to do for children too, with have-a-go activities all set in acres of space.

As a traditional countryside show, the Hanbury Show is awash with cattle, sheep, pigs and goats, and the Grand Parade of Livestock is a magnificent spectacle of prize-winning farm animals adorned with colourful rosettes and led into the rings by their proud owners. The Fun Dog Show is back again too, so why not enter your four-legged friends?

Another beloved parade - but of the mechanical kind

The Hanbury Countryside Show Society is thankful for support from the community, the committees, sponsors, volunteers, landowners, contractors, and the local press. As a thank you, the show supports The Midlands Air Ambulance as its main charity, along with Hanbury C of E First School, South Bromsgrove High School, the farming charity RABI and the Lions Club.

More information can be found at www.hanburyshow. co.uk where you can also book tickets. Adult tickets are £16.50 each in advance (or £20 on the day). Under 16s come in for free. Membership options are available too. The show is dog friendly.

Oh what a lovely war

Feckenham Village Hall - Friday, 7th June at 7pm

Roll up, Roll up! And take your seat for the everpopular ‘War Game’ ! Auntie Jen Productions brings a brand-new production of Joan Littlewood’s classic musical to Feckenham Village Hall.

A cornerstone of modern musical theatre and one of the very greatest stage satires, Oh What A Lovely War is an extraordinary theatrical journey bringing to life the folly, farce and tragedy of the First World War.

Packed with timeless songs, razor-sharp satire and high jinks, Oh What A Lovely War is a hilarious, heart-breaking snapshot of life for those caught in the crossfire of conflict, a unanimous voice from the trenches and a timely warning from the theatre of war itself. Now, more than ever, it holds a mirror up to the world and speaks to us all.

Aunty Jen Productions is an award winning professional theatre company based in Studley in Warwickshire. They work with local businesses and grass-roots venues to ensure that their productions are accessible to all by keeping ticket prices as low as possible and supporting local freelance actors.

Tickets for Oh What a Lovely War are on sale at The Village Shop in Feckenham. You can also book online through www.feckhall.org

Feckenham Wake bounces back!

Saturday,

22nd

June from 12.30pm on The Square and Recreation Ground, Feckenham

In days of old when knights were bold Feckenham was far from the rural backwater it is today. Royalty used to drop in to the Hunting Lodge in the middle of Feckenham Forest. They were so impressed with the village’s hospitality that in the year 1223 King Henry III issued a charter giving the Feckenhamsters the right Royal right to hold a great big party every year… and it’s been happening ever since.

This year Feckenham Wake (as it’s been called since before anyone can remember) is on Saturday, 22nd June. It features lots of attractions guaranteed to appeal to all ages and tastes – there’ll be games and things to bounce on for the youngster, a trial of strength for the dads (and mums) and a Fun Dog Show for Fido. There’ll be an enormous Classic Car Show with over 100 shiny motors on display. Also featuring will be Punch and Judy, The Arrow Valley Brass Band, All Round Voices Choir, Massed Morris Dancers and Feckenham Country Dancers. Circus performer Thomas Trilby will prove that it is possible to juggle on stilts whilst riding a unicycle. There’ll be lots to see and plenty to eat and drink – a real ale bar, a prosecco bar, cream teas, a pig roast, pizzas, home-made samosas, ices and candy floss… and there’ll be Roo’d – a pair of giant bouncing kangaroos – seeing is believing!

It all starts at 12.30 pm on The Square at Feckenham. Entrance is free – though there is a small charge for parking. Feckenham is just south of Redditch on the B4090. Satnav users enter the postcode B96 6QH www.facebook.com/FeckenhamWake

Tune into a long weekend of folk favourites

Bromsgrove Folk Festival, in more than 30 years of its existence, has brought the very best in folk, roots and acoustic music to North Worcestershire and 2024 is no exception.

The line-up includes Wales’ Martyn Joseph, Milan based Track Dogs, Midlands young superstars Granny’s Attic, Australia domiciled Enda Kenny, Scotland’s Dave Gibb, internationally renowned Other Roads (well, two thirds of them at least!), Devonshire based poet Rob Barratt, and a host of others over the long weekend of July 4th to July 7th.

The festival is on the move again and this year’s spectacular will be held at Bromsgrove Rugby Club’s Finstall Park ground.

As well as evening concerts in the Main Marquee – the Friday programme from 7pm to 11.15pm comprises Martyn Joseph, Granny’s Attic, Enda Kenny and Fairfield (revisited) and on Saturday from 7pm to 11.15pm visitors can enjoy Track Dogs, Enda Kenny, Rob Barratt, Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer and Dave Gibb –there will be multitudinous other concerts, singarounds and general festive fun and frivolity in the club’s bars and concert room. There will also be a covered Saturday and Sunday craft fair organised by our good friends Artisan Bazaar with many stalls especially selected with your average folkie in mind.

The festival will once again feature the Bromsgrove Ukulele Musical Society (BUMS) and the festival choir (BOTUMS) both of whom will perform at the closing concert on Sunday afternoon.

Tickets for this year’s festival are on sale by downloading the application form at www.bromsgrovefolkclub.co.uk

Plans, it is said, are there to be altered and expanded and so we would advise our prospective audience to keep in touch via our mailing list (again via our website) and/or our social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and even TikTok.

Bromsgrove Folk Festival is very much in the “small and friendly” category and it is our aim to have all of our festival goers on first name terms by the end of the weekend.

Martyn Joseph

Grannys Attic

Track Dogs

Try something new on your doorstep at annual festival

Following the success of last year’s Bromsgrove Festival, the 2024 event promises to be even bigger and better.

The festival’s organisers, who are encouraging residents to “try something new” right here on your doorstep, have gone the extra mile to ensure that nearly all genres of the arts, culture and heritage scene are covered.

A packed programme includes lunchtime concerts staged by Festive Classics on Wednesday lunchtimes at Avoncroft Museum, featuring not only classical music but also jazz and comedy, and Bromsgrove Folk Festival, which will bring the best in folk, roots and acoustic music to this year’s venue, Bromsgrove Rugby Club’s home at Finstall Park.

Festival goers can also engage with the heritage and climb the tower at St John’s church, enjoy live music in local pubs, Shakespeare presented by Oddsocks Theatre Company at Avoncroft Museum plus film, drama and live music at Fairfield Village Hall courtesy of Bromsgrove Arts. Bromsgrove Carnival is also part of the exciting offering to residents of all ages.

To launch the festival, Creative Arts Showcase will be presenting a day on the High Street on Saturday, June 22nd at 12pm to showcase and promote all events. There will also be free creative art and craft, mini low-cost taster workshops, juggling and hands-on circus skills, an art display and art taster workshop. The event will be coordinated by Phil JonesHammersley and BRMG Radio.

The festival’s organisers are delighted by the return of Artrix this year and congratulate Bromsgrove

Community Arts and its volunteers for their work in bringing the venue back to life. Please give them your support to ensure that the venue continues to thrive at www.artrixbromsgrove.co.uk

Keep an eye on www.bromsgrovefestival.co.uk for the chance to be involved or register to receive updates via email.

Alternatively check the social media pages: Facebook - Bromsgrove Festival, X - @bromsgrovefestival and Instagram - @bromsgrove-festival

Lloyd Webber and friends

Barnt Green Choral Society helps launch

The 2024 Bromsgrove Festival on Saturday, June 22nd with its always popular “Family Concert” , this year with a programme of music from “Lloyd Webber and Friends”, including songs from “Joseph” , “The Phantom of The Opera” and “A Little Night Music”

The Society will be joined by well known local soprano, Catherine Tabberner and a children’s choir from St. Andrews School, Barnt Green, and all three will be backed by a five piece instrumental ensemble.

The Concert starts at 3.00pm and is being staged in Bromsgrove Baptist Church, a short stroll up New Road from the High Street.

Tickets costing £10 each ( under 16’s are free ), which include refreshments after the Concert, are available via the Ticket Source Website - www.ticketsource.co.uk - simply type “Lloyd Webber and Friends” into the “Find Event Search Bar ”, or from Members of The Society, or you can pay on the door with a card or cash.

22ndJune21stJuly2024

Fierce and funny clash of acting titans

The National Theatre production of Motive and The Cue , a new play by Jack Thorne, will be screened at Bromsgrove Arts on Sunday, June 9th at 7.30pm.

Sam Mendes directs Mark Gatiss as John Gielgud and Johnny Flynn as Richard Burton in this fierce and funny new play.

It’s 1964 and Burton, newly married to Elizabeth Taylor, is to play the title role in an experimental new Broadway production of Hamlet under John Gielgud’s exacting direction. But as rehearsals progress, two ages of theatre collide and the collaboration between actor and director soon threatens to unravel.

Written by Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) and designed by Es Devlin (The Crucible), the Evening Standard award-winning best new play was filmed live during a sold-out run at the National Theatre.

A story of love and resilience based on the novel and the Broadway musical, The Colour Purple , to be shown on Wednesday, June 19th at 7pm, is a decades-spanning tale of one woman’s journey to independence. Celie faces many hardships in her life, but ultimately finds extraordinary strength and hope in the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood.

With a 40-piece orchestra, two powerful singers and a charming compere in Peter Tomlinson, Midland Concert Orchestra returns on Sunday, June 23rd with more music from the Great American Songbook, from the libraries of Cole Porter, Gershwin, Irvine Berlin, Rogers and Hart and many more. The orchestra will be offering unique arrangements of some of the best songs from Broadway, which will also include many jazz standards.

A tale of revenge that has stood the test of time, Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, Hamlet , on Wednesday, June 26th, is reimagined for the modern day as a gripping psychological thriller. Transcending the confines of the stage, the film utilises nearly every room of the Theatre Royal Windsor to transform it into the immortal Elsinore Castle, from basement dungeon to roof-top battlement. The critically acclaimed, recent stage cast of Hamlet, including Ian McKellen, Frances Barber (King Lear, Chekhov’s The Seagull) and Jonathan Hyde (King Lear, Titanic, Crimson Peak), bring their iconic roles to life in this compelling adaptation.

Bromsgrove Arts, the home of Fairfield Flicks and Fairfield Music, 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.bromsgrovearts.org.uk

Photo - Mark Douet

Town celebrates 825 year old Charter

On Saturday 22nd June, Bromsgrove’s annual Fair Day returns to the High Street to celebrate the Royal Charter granted in 1199.

Members of Bromsgrove Court Leet, in their robes and regalia, will process from Housman Hall on Kidderminster Road to the Housman Statue. The Bailiff, Phil Thomas, will proclaim the charter which allowed the town to hold a street market and annual fair to commemorate the patron saint of the parish, St John. At around 11am the Officers of the Court will conduct the assize of bread, ale and leather. A traditional report to announce the quality of the products offered for sale in the High Street. In years gone by the Ale Taster, Bread Weigher and Searcher and Sealer of Leather were responsible for ensuring

the businesses in the town were selling products fit for purpose – like trading standards today. If they found any sub-standard goods, the proprietor would be brought in front of the court and could face a fine.

Running alongside the regular market stalls on Fair Day, will be a themed market where local charities and businesses will have stalls selling home made goods or fundraising. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event, which is held as part of the Bromsgrove Festival.

For more information on the Court Leet visit www. BromsgroveCourtLeet.co.uk or www.facebook.com/ CourtLeetBromsgrove

Genesis - a creation

It takes a certain type of individual to strike an individualistic blow against uniformity. Real determination is needed. Perhaps the same sort of determination that breeds success. And, of course, with success comes the wherewithal to choose from the widest range of the latest essential goods.

Ask the man or woman in the street what ‘Genesis’ is and they will gaze back at you with suspicious eyes, ready to run the moment you flash an evangelical leaflet. Ask a proper individual and the reply will be short and sweet.

They will tell you that Genesis is a luxury offshoot of the Hyundai and Kia empire and stands for a motoring brand like no other. Not so much a luxury essential as an essential luxury. The right sort of machine in other words for the discerning man or woman of individualistic taste who appreciates the unique marketing and customer care package that includes a concierge service to look after your

every need during the five year warranty period. It’s a whole new brand experience that reflects the Korean dedication to customer care.

Adjusting the driver’s mirror the other morning I was arrested by the sight of a pair of determined eyes. They belonged to me. At that moment I was the most determined and individualistic me than I had ever been. This was a fact, not a fake truth, because I was behind the wheel of the stunning rival to Mercedes C Class and Jaguar’s XE and VW Arteon. This top spec Genesis G70 Luxury variant is the car for tomorrow if ever there was one.

of ultimate luxury

Inside this beautifully appointed good looking executive saloon you get an array of driver aids and safety advances. There’s a long list of digital gadgetry too. With reasonable space for passengers in the back to relax, lovers of swish interiors and supple and supportive power adjustable heated or cooled seating will be happy to just sit there and breathe in the heady aroma of leather trimmed classiness.

And it wouldn’t hurt too much were a passing neighbour of the upwardly mobile cast of mind to recognise little old you sitting behind the wheel of this sculpted machine of ineluctable exclusivity. You might feel like winding down the window and pointing out that a car like this would cost him about 6,000 full English breakfasts (tea extra). When put like that, the G70 looks a healthy option at a price starting at £41,470.

Once clear of traffic I was able to put the car through its paces. The Genesis nosed forwards: a

consummate performer with a 4 cylinder, 2.2 diesel putting 197 bhp through an eight speed automatic and there’s a choice of modes from ‘eco’ to ‘sport plus’.

‘What about fuel consumption?’ I hear you ask. I’m pleased to tell you that it is jolly low. A claimed 41.6 mpg to 43.5 mpg is modest. I tried tootling along in eco mode and got near 56 mpg! But if you think along those lines you will miss the enjoyment on offer.

Some good news is that the rear wheel drive adds to the driving enjoyment. Handling and road holding are beyond reproach.

In this Genesis the ability to establish a connection with the driver goes beyond mere communication - it represents tomorrow today. The G70 is close to ‘mind-reading-metal’ in the fluidity of its responsiveness. It certainly sets a challenge to other car makers both in the top quality of the product and the new way of marketing.

by Syd Taylor

Exhibition showcases leading motoring artists

The British Motor Museum has opened an exciting new art exhibition entitled The Gallery 2024. A continuing collaboration with Historic Car Art, the exhibition will run until June 30th and showcases 19 of the UK’s most talented automotive artists.

Alongside the exhibition, the museum will be running a competition for young artists to enter. As part of the prize, winning young artists will have their work displayed at the museum over the summer holidays. More information on the competition and how to submit artwork can be found on the website.

The Gallery showcases several leading motoring artists including Simon Britnell, Kate Alger, John Ketchell, Emma Capener and Neil Collins. The artists work with a variety of media, including acrylics, oil, watercolour, pen, and pastels. As well as the evocative paintings, Jonny Ambrose and Chris Twitchell will bring their eye-catching sculptures to the exhibition.

Stephen Laing, head of collections and engagement at the British Motor Museum, added: “We’re delighted to collaborate for a second year with Historic Car Art to showcase the work of some of Britain’s most talented artists. The community of artists in Britain taking inspiration from the automobile and motorsport

has arguably never been stronger. There is such a wide array of styles and media, capturing the motor car in almost every era and situation.”

Access to the exhibition is included with standard museum admission tickets. There is also the option to Gift Aid or donate your entry fee and get an Annual Pass in return, at no extra cost. To find out more information about the exhibition, please visit www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/explore/thegallery

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Croft make encouraging start to new season

It’s been a positive start to the season for Avoncroft Cricket Club, with the league sides all putting in good early performances.

The First XI currently sit in fourth place in Division Three, with three wins and one defeat in their first four games. Will Baker, Duncan Roke, and Jason Lynch have all played match-winning knocks with the bat, supported by youngster Ben Huxley who scored his maiden First XI 50 in the team’s most recent win against Himbleton. Wickets have been shared around fairly evenly, with spinner Alex Richardson currently leading the way with eight scalps.

So far, the Second XI have managed just two games, with a record of one win and one defeat. Performances of note include 67* from captain Chris Pitt and 5-29 from the returning Max Jukes, both of which helped Croft to their first win of the season against Harvington.

The Third XI have won two games out of two and sit joint top of Division Nine. In a tight win against Old Swinford, Croft were indebted to an impressive all round performance from 15-year-old Callum Hooper, who scored 40 and then took 1-10 off seven overs to guide them to an 18 run victory. The second game was a more one-sided affair, with an all-Under 15 bowling

attack of Jonny Hill (5-6), James Blow (3-8) and Carter Morgan (1-8) bowling a young Pedmore side out for just 36 as part of a ten wicket victory.

The Sunday XI have also put in a couple of promising early season performances, which included an eight wicket victory against Blakedown. Croft’s next crop of impressive Under 13s and Under 14s bowled well to restrict Blakedown to 214-6, with juniors Joe Simon (2-21) and Evan Walford (1-32) the pick of the bowlers. In reply, Ben Athey led the way with 86 not out, ably supported by Phil Seers (75) and Hayden Smith (45*) as Croft made it home with eight wickets and ten balls to spare.

Avoncroft’s junior section has been inundated with interest this year, with capacity reached in the majority of mixed age groups. There are still a few spots available in the girls Under 9s and Under 11s squads, so any girls interested in getting involved are welcome to come along on a Friday evening. Contact details can be found on Avoncroft CC’s website, or through social media.

by Paul Athey

Sporting secure league status

by

by Max Banner

It has certainly been a busy few weeks at Bromsgrove Sporting. The club’s league status was confirmed in their penultimate game of the season, courtesy of a 2-1 win at Stratford Town, with Billy Shaw and Nathan Blissett bagging the goals.

Days later, it was confirmed that former manager Paul Smith would be returning to the Victoria Ground dugout, taking over from interim manager Tim Flowers.

The final match of the season, at home to Barwell, saw Sporting’s captaincy duo of Luke Rowe and Aaron Roberts manage the side, along with Director of Football, Graham Scott, with Paul watching on from the stands.

This game also saw the club recognise the achievements of its Ladies, Colts (juniors) and Girls sides. The Colts and Girls did a lap of the pitch at half time, whilst the Ladies stood in the centre circle.

Upon the referee’s final whistle, the youngsters in attendance invaded the pitch, in what were joyous scenes with the Sporting players. Despite losing the game 1-0, this was a brilliant day of celebration for the club, as it looks ahead to what will hopefully be a promising campaign next season.

After that game, the club’s end of season awards took place. Several awards were given out, including Fans Player of the Season, which was won by defender Aaron Roberts.

Paul has wasted no time in announcing his backroom staff, with John Snape (assistant manager), Steve

McGinn (assistant manager/scout), Scott Adey-Linforth (first team coach) and Josh Coney (goalkeeping coach) all joining his management team.

A fans forum was held in early May, where Paul, chairman Rod Brown and vice chairman Richard Boorn answered an array of questions, on what was a very informative evening.

A crowd of 445 people attended a ‘Legends’ match on a sunny Saturday in the middle of May, which saw an array of Sporting players, past and present, make up two teams - the ‘Reds’ and ‘Greens’. The Greens ran out 4-1 winners and all gate proceeds went to Prostate Cancer UK.

At the time of writing, our title-winning Ladies still await a date for their play-off semi-final. Winning the play-offs would see them achieve promotion to the level above.

In the first Bank Holiday weekend in May, more than 100 youth teams set foot on the Victoria Ground turf in a Colts Tournament and the under 13s side played in the JPL National Cup Final at Doncaster Rovers FC.

For all the latest from Bromsgrove Sporting, as eyes look towards to the 2024-25 season, head over to the club’s website at bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

Bromsgrove Sporting Legends teams

Photos

Chris Jepson

Fans Player of the Season, Aaron Roberts

Personal challenges inspire Mat’s marathon effort

Determined Bromsgrove resident Mat Wright is boosting PTSD UK, a charity close to his heart, by taking part in two long distance running events.

Two years ago, Mat was diagnosed with bereavement PTSD and took the difficult decision to undergo intensive trauma therapy.

Mat said: “When I was in my teens, I had a triple bereavement in a short space of time. This was too much for me to process and it sent me into a depressive state. The tablets I was given clouded my thoughts and wouldn’t allow me to process my feelings which just made things worse. I decided to come off the tablets, locked away all the feelings and thoughts from the past where I thought they were safe and grew up into an adult.

“Over the years my reactions to some situations such as death or talking about those teen years has been very much about avoidance until a mental breakdown in 2021 when it was highlighted that I may have PTSD. In January 2022 I was diagnosed with bereavement related PTSD.

“During the counselling sessions I had to visit the same deep, dark memories that I had locked away as a teenager. I just wanted it to end but I dug deep, had loads of support and love from my wife and family and stuck to the course. I finally came through the counselling more resilient than I gave myself credit for.

“I still have times where I am triggered by intrusive thoughts or feelings, but I have PTSD coping mechanisms in place. I now wear my PTSD badge proudly and am always happy to share my story in the hope it helps that one person see that PTSD is not the end of everything.

“The two big running challenges – the Birmingham Half Marathon that I completed in May and the Ibiza Marathon in April 2025 – are to help people like me, a fun-loving husband, father and dog dad to stay where we should be with our friends and family enjoying life once more.”

If you wish to support Mat, please scan the QR code or visit his JustGiving page: www. justgiving.com/page/matwrightsptsdjourney