Completely Bromsgrove 68 issuu

Issue 68 Dec. 2024/ Jan. 2025

Completely

Bromsgrove yone Wishing ever a istmas r h C y r r e M and a Happy New Year

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2 Completely Bromsgrove

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Welcome to the joint December 2024 and January 2025 issue of Completely Bromsgrove

A

s winter is just upon us and snow has already fallen, maybe we are in for a couple of cold months to see us through the festive period into the New Year?!

There certainly seems to be an abundance of berries this year and, if we believe folklore, a harsh winter is ahead of us.

With Christmas only weeks away, preparations for pantomime season are in full swing.

The good folk of Bromsgrove and the surrounding area are well and truly spoiled this year with Dick Whittington at the Artrix, Robin Hood at Bromsgrove School’s Cobham Theatre and Sleeping Beauty at the Palace Theatre, Redditch.

Regardless of age, there is something magical about getting dressed up and spending an

6

Contents

14

6 MPs Message 8 Rail Matters 10 CAB - 85 Years 12 Home Funding / Lib Dems 14 Repair Café 16 B’grove Flower Club 18 Worcs Wildlife Trust

Completely

4 Completely Bromsgrove

As 2024 draws to a close, the team at Completely Bromsgrove would like to wish our loyal readers and advertisers a very happy and restful festive season. We look forward to bringing you more of the same in 2025.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone!

Best wishes Michele Ford

28

20 Gardening 22 Golf Sensation Jake 26 Care Awards 28 Remembrance Day 29 History 30 Lights of Love 32 Health 36 British Motor Museum

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

afternoon or evening at the theatre with family and/or friends. “Oh yes, it is, oh no it isn’t” – well, I think it is!

46 37 Folk Hero 38 Bromsgrove Arts 40 Feckenham Odeon 42 & Village Hall 42 Artrix 43 Christmas Treecycling 44 Drive Time 46 B’grove Sporting FC

Visit our Instagram or Facebook page and leave a comment, we would love to hear from you. www.facebook.com/completelybromsgrove

Sales: Michele Ford Tel: 07948 086870 Design: Matt Walton Design The contents of Completely Bromsgrove magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Completely Bromsgrove magazine.

Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Completely Bromsgrove magazine cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Completely Bromsgrove

5

A message from our MP F

arming is the beating heart of our rural economy and rural way of life - and it is under attack from this Government.

The many villages that make up our wonderful constituency are home to rural enterprises and to farmers, and their role cannot be overstated. Not only do they provide us with food security, but they contribute significantly to our local economy, and it is critical that we suppor t them.

Every single one of us relies on farmers three times a day. They are the guardians of our countryside, often working in isolated or harsh conditions, physically and in a competitive marketplace. The very least we can do is show that we appreciate them and understand what they do, but sadly this out-of-touch Government can’t even do that.

You may remember that before the election, the now Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs promised to protect farmers. They promised not to change inheritance rules, but then in the autumn Budget, among many other broken promises, the Government has broken its promises to farmers with its Family Farm Tax. The Government has reduced reliefs and imposed inheritance tax rates on farmland which will devastate family farms and pose a serious risk to domestic food security and food prices in our country. Not only do those changes hur t the agriculture sector and our economy, but they hurt individual farming families, with at least 249 farms

6 Completely Bromsgrove

affected across Bromsgrove and the villages.

Here’s one comment I’ve received from a local farmer since the Budget: “I have never written a personal email to an MP before but feel so strongly about the recent changes announced in the Budget that I couldn’t let them go. AlthoughLineview on paper visit we might appear ‘rich’ the reality is we only make enough money each year to suppor t two families and don’t have ‘millions’ in the bank.

“We pay our taxes like every other working person does.

Every spare penny we get we invest in the farm to make it better for the next generation, but after the budget announcements last week feel that that was a waste of time. I am beginning to think that the best option for my family would to be to sell up and move abroad to a country that appreciates its farmers and food.”

That is a devastating comment, and I put it directly to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in the House of Commons. The Government should reflect on the farmer’s words very carefully.

I’ve once again met with local farmers in recent weeks, and it brought home the true impact this devastating policy will have on our family farms. I’m therefore calling on the Government to scrap the Family Farm Tax and instead support British farmers who keep us fed and are at the hear t of our beautiful countryside.

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www.bromsgroverail.org.uk

Fight for improved rail connectivity continues I

have been writing this monthly column on behalf of BARRUP for four years, and our organisation is very appreciative of it being published by Completely Bromsgrove. Often I am asked by readers whether it is having any effect in improving rail connectivity in Bromsgrove and North East Worcestershire.

In all honesty, I can’t point my finger at any specific improvement that has come about because of BARRUP, but what we have done is to draw attention to the economic benefits which are on offer if rail connectivity is improved.

What is increasingly apparent is that there is a potential considerable day/short stay tourism economy which could be developed by more awareness and promotion of the links already in place between the station with its four trains an hour, all with new rolling stock, arriving from Hereford, Worcester, University, Birmingham New Street and Lichfield et al, and the six bus routes calling at the station at various destinations all over the north of the county.

The frustration is that, despite BARRUP pointing this out on several occasions, this potential is not being seized on by either Worcestershire County Council or Bromsgrove District Council. BARRUP invited the latter to set up a cross-party working group to develop the “offer” of the station, and it is a pity that there is not a dedicated Bromsgrove Chamber of Commerce which could do the same.

8 Completely Bromsgrove

The day/short stay tourism economy could be boosted fur ther if Cross Country Trains is persuaded

by Bromsgrove MP Bradley Thomas, the county council, the district council, Visit Worcestershire, Worcestershire LEP and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce to have its Nottingham to Cardiff service stop at Bromsgrove.

This would enable visitors from a much wider geographical area to visit the town and district and enjoy the experiences of Avoncroft Museum, St John’s Church, The Tardebigge Flight, The Royal Hunters Walks, The Housman Trail, the High Street markets, Sanders Park, Artrix, The Norton Collection Museum and the four weeks of Bromsgrove Festival et al.

In 2025 BARRUP will continue to argue the case for improved rail services, and the economic benefits which they bring, with West Midlands Rail and with the above organisations. Will we be successful? We don’t know but keep reading Completely Bromsgrove next year to find out.

by Nick Taylor, memsec@bromsgroverail.org.uk

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Citizens Advice Service celebrates 85 years of support T

he National Citizens Advice Service is celebrating its 85th anniversary, tracing its origins back to September 1939, with the Bromsgrove branch following soon after in July 1940. The team gathered recently to celebrate this anniversary and the tens of thousands of clients who have used its services over the years.

In its early years, Citizens Advice responded to questions stemming from the unprecedented changes brought by World War Two. At the time, there was no National Health Service, no national benefits system, and PAYE had yet to be introduced.

The government was unprepared to implement national programmes like rationing and evacuation and lacked the resources to handle the wave of resulting queries. Volunteers answered the call to establish local Citizens Advice Bureaux, resulting in the creation of more than 1,000 new services nationwide.

After the war, government funding was withdrawn, leading to a significant reduction in bureaux.

However, the passing of the Rent Act in 1957 renewed demand for assistance, sparking the growth of the modern Citizens Advice service.

Today, Citizens Advice Bromsgrove & Redditch operates as an independent charity supported by district, borough, and county authorities. It provides vital advice and suppor t across a broad range of issues, including debt, benefits, housing, and employment. While these are core areas, the service is equipped to assist with nearly any problem, and where they cannot help directly, they refer clients to trusted par tners.

The recent cost-of-living crisis has led to an unprecedented demand for support. Last year alone,

10 Completely Bromsgrove

the service supported 9,903 households across the two districts, helping families manage over £1.6 million in debt and secure nearly £1.5 million in additional income through pensions and benefits owed to clients.

This vital support contributes to the local economy, often providing long-term benefits to the community.

Citizens Advice Bromsgrove & Redditch is immensely grateful to the dedicated volunteers, trustees, and staff who make this work possible, as well as to the local authorities, parish councils, and grant funders for their ongoing suppor t.

New volunteers are always welcome to join in a variety of roles. To explore these oppor tunities, please visit www.cabr.org.uk/volunteering

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11

Funding will help build

much-needed homes

B

romsgrove has been awarded £722,748 from the Brownfield Land Release Fund to deliver 50 homes on disused sites in the town centre.

Last month Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that £68m has been given to 54 councils in England, who will be able to use the money to turn surplus land into new homes. It will transform local communities and help families onto the proper ty ladder.

The funding will mean councils can clear empty buildings, former car parks and industrial land to make way for the homes. Brownfield land can be expensive to prepare for house building, meaning sites are sat empty and can be an eyesore for local communities.

A further £69 million of capital funding has been made available to regeneration projects across the country.

Bromsgrove District Council leader Karen May said: “I am delighted that this announcement has been made because while there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes, this demonstrates that the town centre project is gaining momentum.

“Soon our residents will see action at these sites as we begin to transform the derelict buildings into much-needed housing provision in our town centre.”

Author in town to discuss Navalny book

J

ournalist and author John Sweeney, who doorstepped Vladimir Putin and reported undercover in North Korea, visited Bromsgrove to discuss his latest book Murder in the Gulag - the Life and Death of Alexei Navalny.

John met with members of the Bromsgrove Liberal Democrats and told personal stories from his challenging interview with Donald Trump, doorstepping Vladimir Putin about the shooting down of flight MH17, and his time in Ukraine during the ongoing war.

Earlier this year, John stood in the General Election for the Liberal Democrats in Sutton Coldfield. He has written 13 non-fiction books and four novels covering topics as diverse as Scientology and his undercover experience in Nor th Korea.

During his talk, John spoke of how Trump’s recent re-election as president of the USA may impact the war in Ukraine.

12 Completely Bromsgrove

“Things are going to get choppy, no question,” he said.

“I am desperately worried about my friends in Ukraine but at the same time, I know that they’re not going to give up and that they will carry on fighting. Ukrainians have a wonderful spirit and a great sense of humour and are defending themselves like we did in 1938.”

Reflecting on current world events, John warned that: “It kind of feels like 1938 or 1939.”

Local councillor Sam Evans thanked John for visiting Bromsgrove and for his insightful talk.

Sam said: “John has had a fascinating career and has a history of holding the most powerful to account. It was moving to hear him talk of Navalny, his late friend and Russian opposition leader.”

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Thriving Repair Café

elects new co-ordinator

T

he popular Bromsgrove Repair Café, which has gone from strength to strength since 2022, has a new co-ordinator.

Julie Robinson, who has lived with her family in Bromsgrove for the last 24 years, was elected to the position at the group’s AGM after the former co-ordinator, Ros Cooke, stood down.

“Running the Repair Café has been enjoyable and rewarding, but it’s time for a new face at the helm,” said Ros. “I am pleased that Julie has been elected; she has already introduced fresh ideas and dynamism.”

The Repair Café operates on the first Saturday of each month at All Saints Church Hall in Bromsgrove. Volunteer skilled repairers work on a wide range of items including electrical goods, bikes, garden tools, furniture, jewellery, and clothes.

Since it began, 643 repairs have been successfully carried out for 860 visitors – saving 2.25 tons of waste from going to landfill or incineration - the equivalent of 187 vacuum cleaners.

Ros added: “That’s an impressive dent in Bromsgrove’s carbon footprint and it’s all down to our visitors who give us a try, and to our 20 or so expert repairers and other volunteers who all gladly give their time.”

One of the biggest obstacles to making repairs is an inability to obtain spare parts but it’s hoped that as manufacturers comply with the 2021 Ecodesign regulations that problem should be challenged.

The regulations require manufacturers to design products for repairability and provide spare par ts and information on how to make repairs.

The community repair service is enabled by donations, but these are totally voluntary, and the team are happy to repair for free as every successful repair helps the environment. While you wait, homemade cake and a cuppa can also be purchased at the café, thanks to the home baking volunteers and to a fantastic relationship with St Basil’s Bistro (the Pod) in Charford who make exceptionally good cakes.

The next Repair Café at All Saints Hall Bromsgrove will take place at 2.30pm on Saturday, December 7th - great timing for fixing Christmas lights. The last entry for electrical jobs is 4.30pm, for all other repairs drop in anytime up until 5pm as the café closes at 5.30pm.

For more details, visit the Repair Cafe Bromsgrove Facebook page or call 07818 045881.

14 Completely Bromsgrove

Julie Robinson and Ros Cooke at the hand over

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Escape the festive bustle at friendly flower club

B

romsgrove Flower Club’s AGM on December 12th will include a quick round up of the year, presentation of competition trophies and an opportunity for members to vote for the committee, make suggestions and bring fresh ideas.

Sunday 15th December 4pm Christ Church, Catshill - Carol Service 5pm St Godwald’s, Finstall - Candlelit Carol Service 5pm St Michael’s & All Angels, Stoke Prior - Carol Service at 6pm Holy Trinity & St Mary , Dodford - Carol Service at

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There is also the chance to win a demonstrated arrangement in the monthly raffle or a gift in the Christmas raffle.

Admission fees are £4 for members and £10 for visitors for a relaxing couple of hours away from the usual Christmas rush and bustle.

Tel: 01527 874526

Demonstrator Lorna Hill will be showing members and visitors her interpretation of “Winter Wonderland”.

Come along to All Saints Church Hall in Burcot Lane at 1.30pm and warm up with complimentary mulled wine – both alcoholic and non-alcoholic – and mince pies.

Saturday 21st December 4:30 St John’s - Christingle workshop for all ages followed by service.

Sunday 22nd December 6pm All Saints - Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols 6pm St John’s - Festival of Nine Lessons

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17

Song thrush by Wendy Carter

Winter thrushes D

id you know that we’re joined by over a million of our blackbird’s cousins during our winter months?

That’s right. Not only do numbers of blackbirds swell during winter, as their cousins from Germany and Scandinavia arrive in the UK to take advantage of our milder weather, but we’re also joined by song thrushes, fieldfares and redwings. In the depths of winter, we might not appreciate that our chilly times are ‘mild’ but compared to the frosts and snows sweeping through other par ts of Europe, we’re positively tropical.

The birds follow the milder temperatures and abundance of food as autumn progresses to winter – some will spend the whole winter with us whilst others continue to Spain and France. Once the clocks changed and early evenings became dark, hearing the ‘tseep’ of redwings flying overhead has become more common, continuing their journeys south. Fieldfares are a little late arriving this year and, as I write, I’ve yet to hear their distinctive ‘chack-chack’ in the fields or overhead.

If the weather remains mild and damp, keep a look out for them hunting for worms and other invertebrates in fields. If you’re near orchards (or if you have fruit trees in your garden), keep a watch for them filling their bellies with fallen fruits. They’re probably most often seen in berry-laden trees – rowans, hawthorns, ivy – gobbling down the sugarysweet berries.

So, how will you know what you’re looking for? Fieldfares and redwings are similar in size to blackbirds. Fieldfares are a little bigger and have a grey head that leads to brown on the wings and back. Their white necks and chests are dotted with spots and if you’re lucky enough to spot a mature adult you’ll notice a beautiful peachy colour down either side of their chest. Redwings are similar to

18 Completely Bromsgrove

song thrushes in their brown colouring but look for a bold eye stripe and a flash of red under their wings. If you see a flock in flight, you may be able to spot the white ‘armpits’ of fieldfares contrasted against the red ‘armpits’ of the redwings.

Migration constantly amazes me. These relatively small birds brave harsh weather and tall seas to spend their winters with us. Yet despite their hardiness, if the weather turns, they might still benefit from a helping hand. If you’ve got a few apples you can throw out, you might be rewarded with one or two joining their familiar garden cousins. If you’ve got the space, or are able to influence the management of your local greenspace, why not consider planting berry-bearing trees or creepers to encourage these beautiful thrushes to your area in years to come.

For more information about helping wildlife take a look at www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/actions or visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/shop for a range of Christmas cards and goodies that will help wildlife across Worcestershire.

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19

GARDENING

Splendid holly isn’t just for Christmas I

t’s the time of year when our halls are decked with the splendour of holly. Although it will always be synonymous with Christmas, it has a life well beyond the festive period and continues to cut a majestic sight throughout the year.

Whether you are looking for a small shrub, a large climber or an architectural evergreen specimen for your garden; you will never be short on choice. There is a whole world of diverse leaf shapes, variegation and berries of different colours to choose from. The holly is easy to grow but is very slow-growing and mature trees can grow up to 15m, some living for 300 years.

If you want Christmas berries you will need both a male and female plant to ensure cross-pollination, so always plant two. Once pollinated by insects, the white female flowers develop into scarlet berries which can remain on the tree throughout winter. It’s impor tant to remember that berries can be harmful to humans if eaten.

Plant holly bushes in the winter months. Dig a generous hole for your plant, incorporating well-

rotted garden compost into the soil. Back fill and firm down gently around the base of the plant. Pruning should be done in late summer and can be trimmed into formal shapes and hedges. If you have inherited an overgrown holly, stagger any hard pruning over two or three years to reshape it.

Fun facts Holly leaves can act as mini lightning rods. Thanks to spines on their characteristic shaped leaves acting as miniature lightning conductors, holly trees were planted near houses to help guard against threatening strikes.

According to folklore, holly is known for warding off evil spirits. It was considered bad luck to cut down a whole tree or trim bushes. Some species of holly trees native to South America are a source for herbal tea and are said to have energising and healing powers.

Jobs for December and January Protect terracotta pots from cracking in freezing weather by bringing them indoors or wrapping in bubble polythene.

Plant bare-root roses and other deciduous shrubs Pile straw or bracken around the base of tender shrubs and climbers to protect them from falling temperatures Prune climbing roses between now and February Hard prune overgrown shrubs and hedges while they’re dormant Pinch out the tips of autumn-sown sweet peas to encourage bushier growth

Winter prune large fruit trees, such as apples and pears, to control their shape and size, and to increase their productivity Plant fruit trees trained as cordons, fans or espaliers to make good use of limited space Start to plan next year’s crops and order seeds Tidy up raspberry and blackberry beds – weed and mulch with compost, then tie new stems to supporting wires Keep kale, winter cabbages and other brassicas covered with netting to protect them from pigeons

Pour another egg-nog, throw a couple of logs on the fire and enjoy the season to be jolly.

20 Completely Bromsgrove

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Jake ready for global challenge after stunning season

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romsgrove golfer Jake Jeff-Johnston has enjoyed another sensational golf season.

The 13-year-old retained his British Junior Order of Merit title in the under 14s division having moved up from the under 12s. The Barnt Green resident clinched the order of merit title with two rounds to spare.

Jake also won the British Junior Golf Tour’s prestige event Tour Championship at The Royal Norwich Golf Club and the European under 13s three-day championship at Le Touquet in France.

To top the season off, Jake has just qualified to play the Junior World Championship at San Diego, California, in July 2025.

Jake said: “I’m really pleased to have won the order of merit as I’m one of the younger players in the division. To also win the Tour Championship in bad weather conditions was icing on the cake.

“Having also won the European title and heading to the World Championships in 2025, I have a lot to look forward to as well as defending British and European titles.”

Jake achieved all of this while managing his Type 1 diabetes, which he was diagnosed with at the age of eight. This means monitoring his blood sugar levels while playing golf and administering insulin when required and he is well supported by the paediatric diabetes team at the Alexandra Hospital, Redditch.

The teenager’s longer-term ambitions are to obtain a golf scholarship to the USA and play for the boys England squad.

He was first introduced to the sport by his father Mark and hit his first golf ball when he was just two-and-a-half. He has been a member at Bromsgrove Golf Club for the last nine years and attends St George’s School in Edgbaston.

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23

Advertising Feature

Chandler Court celebrates ‘Good’ rating The team at Care UK’s Chandler Court care home in Bromsgrove is celebrating after receiving a ‘Good’ rating following a recent inspection from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Home Manager, Lilly Dahms, says, “It’s wonderful to have gained an overall ‘Good’ rating in ‘Safe’, ‘Effective’, ‘Caring’ and ‘Responsive’ categories, recognising our truly person-centred approach to care. It’s testament to our team’s hard work.”

Promoting choice and independence “At Chandler Court, we put your loved one at the heart of their care, supporting them to maintain independence and make choices around the way they’d like their care to be delivered,” says Lilly. “Our CQC inspection report highlights this, stating that ‘People’s care and support plans guided staff on how to promote their independence, choice and control’.

Residents were keen to echo this feedback to the inspectors, commenting that they ‘ couldn’t be in a better place’.

Person-centered care “We’re proud of the person-centered care we provide to every resident,” explains Lilly, “and the report highlights our dedication to enabling residents to ‘live their lives according to their wishes and preferences’. The report praises our team for ‘interacting with people with kindness and respect’, observing a ‘calm and relaxed atmosphere’.

Inspectors also emphasized that activities at Chandler Court ‘promoted independence, health and wellbeing’ whilst ‘people were supported to maintain relationships important to them.’”

At Chandler Court, the team get to know your loved one like a member of their own family, supporting them to lead fulfilling lifestyles; whether it’s continuing a much-loved hobby, making new friends or achieving a lifelong goal.

24 Completely Bromsgrove

Safety and reassurance, always “Moving your loved one into a care home can be a difficult decision, and we recognise the importance of feeling you’ve made the right choice”, says Lilly.

“That’s why we were delighted to hear relatives’ feedback to the inspectors. Relatives commented on the safety of their loved one since moving into Chandler Court, and the reassurance they feel with the support of the team”.

To find out more the outstanding care on offer at Chandler Court, call 01527 903670.

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Recreation Road, Bromsgrove B61 8DT careuk.com/chandler-court

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Care Provider 2022 Completely Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove care home worker honoured with regional award

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carer at a luxury care home in Bromsgrove has won a prestigious award at the West Midlands Great British Care Awards.

Caroline Morgan, dementia care manager at Burcot Grange and Lodge was recognised with the Palliative/ End of Life’ Award at the ceremony on November 2.

She was nominated by deputy dementia care manager Charlotte Askew, who highlighted her exceptional dedication and compassion in supporting residents and their families during the most sensitive stages of life.

After joining Burcot Grange as a team leader five years ago, Caroline progressed to her current role. Now, she is primarily based at the lodge as it specialises in dementia care.

Throughout her time at the home, she has been an advocate for residents’ dignity and comfort, ensuring that no resident is left alone at any point during the end-of-life journey.

The award recognises Caroline’s profound impact on the lives of residents and their loved ones. Her colleagues describe her as an inspiring figure within the home.

Charlotte Askew said that Caroline’s dedication goes “beyond mere responsibility, it reflects her deep compassion and commitment to creating a nurturing environment.”

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Caroline toasting with Charlotte (left) and Senior Team Member Mel (right)

Caroline said that she had been “blown away” by the outpouring of love and support from her colleagues and residents’ families. She feels “very grateful and humbled” by both the nomination and the recognition at the Great British Care Awards.

Burcot Grange and Lodge’s general manager, Vicky Osborne, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled for Caroline – this recognition couldn’t be more deserved.

“She has an incredible way of connecting with our residents and their families, making sure they feel supported and cared for, especially during such tender moments.

“Caroline goes above and beyond every single day, and we’re so proud to see her compassion and commitment celebrated in this way.”

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26 Completely Bromsgrove

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e are focused on the happiness of each and every one of our residents and we love being able to § »Ô Á ¸ 㧠ÁÉÛã É¡ 㧠ôÉÂ ×¡è» ¡ ª»ªãª Û É ÉĂ × at Burcot, which include a full and varied timetable of activities for all to enjoy.

Our belief is for every one of our residents to ‘Live well today and thrive tomorrow’ and at Burcot Grange & Lodge there is a plethora of opportunity to enable everyone to do so.

MEET & GREET MONDAYS 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

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27

Bromsgrove remembers with local veterans

T

housands of people turned out across the Bromsgrove District over the Remembrance weekend and for Armistice Day to pay their respect to those who gave their lives for our freedoms.

A Community Concert which featured local performers and some from further away who pay tribute to important characters from the past was held at Artrix. Alan Oliver, depicting Field Marshall B L Montgomery alongside Derek and Linda Herbert who play Sir Winston and Clementine Churchill, were at the front door to welcome guest of honour, 101 year old Mrs Betty Webb MBE, a Bletchley Park code-breaker.

Performers on stage during the evening included Town Crier Kevin Ward, Soprano Catherine Tabberner, singing trio Vintage Class, Chadsgrove School Choir, Theatretrain Bromsgrove and the Stourport-on-Severn Brass Band.

In the second half Reverend Ray Khan led a Drum Head Ceremony, a military religious service, traditionally held in the field, where drums are used to create a makeshift altar.

On Sunday 10th November, thousands gathered for the parade through the town and the Service of Remembrance held by the War Memorial. Over 40 wreaths were laid by local organisations both military and civilian. On Monday 11th at 11am a crowd gathered at the Oddfellows Memorial in High Street for a short service and a moment of silence.

18. He joined 67 Armoured Corps driving a Bedford truck and armoured cars. Later Barry was stationed in Malaysia with the tank regiment, in Germany near Bergen Belsen and under took tours of Korea and Japan as par t of the commonwealth peace keeping forces in 1950 to 52.

A very familiar face at all acts of Remembrance is Hubert Sherwood. Bert has been the RBL Standard Bearer in Bromsgrove for over a decade, but at the age of 85 has made the difficult decision to hand the Standard over to Melvin Jones.

Here at Completely Bromsgrove we are honoured to recognise our local veterans and thank them most humbly for their service.

All three events were attended by local veterans. Able Seaman Alber t Malin was just 17 when he served on the boats at D-Day. He joined the Arctic Convoys at 18 and was stationed in the Far East aged 19 before settling in the UK where he joined the fire brigade aged 20. He attended the event wearing his many medals and treasured beret.

Ninety-year-old Barry Troth is President of the Bromsgrove RBL. Barry was born in Bromsgrove to parents Maud and Alber t. He attended St Peter’s school with his two sisters. He worked as a fireman (stoker) on the railways before being called up for National Service at

28 Completely Bromsgrove

by Jo Slade

Eddie Palmer in uniform

Concert at All Saints Church

HISTORY

Two churches, three nurses and a sailor

A

collection of remarkable people and organisations is celebrated in the latest issue of the Rousler, the Bromsgrove Society’s annual local history magazine.

Among those profiled are the Caulcott sisters: Margaret, Lilian and Bet. All three were nurses and carers between the wars, including at the Bromsgrove Cottage Hospital. Rob Hudson, their great-nephew, has been looking into their lives.

Originally from Stoke-on-Trent, Margaret Caulcott joined the Queen Alexandra Imperial Military Nursing Service during the First World War and was posted to the First Birmingham War Hospital at Rubery.

Housed in a former asylum, this was one of several war hospitals in Birmingham which together treated thousands of wounded. She was awarded the Royal Red Cross Medal for her services there, the highest award available to a military nurse, and was decorated at Buckingham Palace by King George V himself.

After the war, Margaret was appointed Matron at The Caulcott Sisters in 1949 Bromsgrove Cottage Hospital where she remained until her retirement in 1944. Lilian Caulcott became a Sister at the same hospital, while their younger sister Bet was a carer for their father Thomas Caulcott. By this time World War Two was underway and newspaper reports of the time show the hospital surrounded by huge piles of sandbags.

Another service person featured from this period is the sailor Eddie Palmer. After joining the Royal Navy at 15, Eddie trained as a torpedo technician.

He was involved in the 1941 hunt for the German battleship Bismarck and later served in Malta and North Africa. He died in July 2024, aged 101. Neil Beaumont tells his story, including his posthumous award of the Malta George Cross 50th Anniversary Medal (see also the November 2024 edition of Completely Bromsgrove).

In another ar ticle, church members Steve and Sarah Bull recount the history of All Saints’ Church in Burcot Lane, which marked its 150th anniversary this year. They discuss the distinctive Victorian building, the sesquicentennial celebrations, and the role the church plays in the community today.

Meanwhile, a short distance away, the town’s Methodists have been celebrating the 40th anniversary of the opening of the Church Centre on Stratford Road. In her ar ticle, Jenny Harding explains the history of Methodism in Bromsgrove and how the Church Centre came about.

The Bromsgrove Rousler has been published every year since 1986 and this latest issue is number 39 in the series. Other articles in this year’s edition look at the story of Webbs of Wychbold, one of the country’s largest garden centres, and local farms and rural communities as seen through old postcards.

The Rousler is available postage-free via the Bromsgrove Society’s website, www.bsoc.co.uk and via @bromsgrovesoc on social media. It is also on sale through a wide range of retail and other outlets across the district, priced £4.

by Mike Sharpe Completely Bromsgrove

29

Rachel with a photo of Lizzie

Celebrate loved ones with Lights of Love

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ereavement and grief affect us all, especially at Christmas. Primrose Hospice’s annual Lights of Love project can help you honour, remember and celebrate the lives of your loved ones.

Rachel Watts’ Lights of Love journey began after her sister Lizzie died from stomach cancer in 2017 on New Year’s Day. “Christmas was Lizzie’s favourite time of the year; she absolutely loved Christmas,” said Rachel.

“We’d be eating Christmas chocolates in November and the tree would go up on December 1. We are lucky to have lots of lovely memories of Lizzie, so it’s important to keep these traditions going, it’s like holding on to her in our minds. Lights of Love has become one of those traditions.”

Whether your special person received care from the hospice or not, young or old, nearby or far away, Primrose Hospice invites anyone wishing to honour the memory of someone who has sadly died to dedicate a light to them on one of their Christmas trees.

Each light represents a life which will remain lit throughout the festive period. You will also be posted a Lights of Love card, personalised with your loved

30 Completely Bromsgrove

ones’ names and each tribute will appear on a digital tribute page, where messages and photographs can be added. You are also invited to attend a Lights of Love event, where you can find solace in the collective suppor t of those around you.

Primrose Hospice & Family Suppor t Centre offer care to patients with a life-limiting illness and suppor ts families who have experienced bereavement in the Nor th-East Worcestershire area.

Find out more about the Lights of Love events and how to dedicate your light here at primrosehospice. org/events/lightsoflove or call 01527 889796.

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31

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Facing the facts about visceral fat

C

hristmas is almost upon us, and I would like to wish you all wonderful tidings and a great New Year. I hope you have enjoyed my articles over the past 12 months.

We are used to hearing about the difficulties our NHS is facing along with the nation’s health and obesity. Therefore, I thought I would write about visceral fat because I am about to embark on a journey to test a natural product to help reduce this issue. In my first article of 2025 I will be writing about the results so watch this space.

Visceral fat is the cause of much inflammation throughout our bodies and causes many other problems. It is found deep within the abdominal cavity of the body. This fat collects around the belly and around our important organs, whereas subcutaneous fat is found just below our skin, and because of this it is the most difficult fat to remove even with diet and exercise.

When visceral fat is at the correct level it helps to protect our organs but when too much of it collects it can lead to serious health issues such as diabetes, hear t disease and stroke.

A growing belly is one of the most obvious signs of visceral fat as well as subcutaneous fat. Studies have shown that figures such as pot belly, appleshape and pear-shaped figures may have more visceral fat than what is healthy.

Genetics determine your body shape and how we store that visceral fat. Environmental factors such as diet and exercise can also play a part.

32 Completely Bromsgrove

Subcutaneous fat Abdominal muscles Visceral fat

If a person’s diet contains a high intake of fatty foods, carbohydrates and sugars and they do not exercise then visceral fat will increase. Stress is also a major factor because it causes the hormones in our bodies to jump into fight or flight response.

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33

For the widest selection of artisan cheese in the Midlands

For Christmas orders through our website www.queso.uk will be available for collection from Butcher’s Block on Bromsgrove High Street on Friday 20th December 2024

We will be trading at Bromsgrove Market on Friday 13th December

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2025 sees an exciting time at Butcher’s Block Off the back of another award win, Independent Retailer of the Year – Butcher’s Block Bromsgrove were gifted the coveted prize at the recent Birmingham Awards 2024.

Next year is already seeing some amazing bookings for our outside catering.

With big birthday celebrations booked and a full day catering for a wedding, including a 3 course sit down lunch, Lilith creates a menu with you specifically for your event!

Not only that, due to increased popularity, Lil’s Baps will also be trading every other Friday on Bromsgrove market.

Featuring her standard and gourmet menu there will be homemade monthly specials to tease your taste buds.

For more about our catering services follow us on our Facebook @butchersblockbromsgrove 53 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AJ Tel: 01527 570241 The only all female staffed butchers in the West Midlands!

34 Completely Bromsgrove

Christmas Festive Menu Christmas Festive Christmas Christmas Festive Festive MenuMenu Menu

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Festive Pate Festive Pate Festive Pate

onion &toast port chutney Served with Melba Served toast with &Melba a caramelised toast ared caramelised red Served with Melba & a&caramelised red Cocktail onion Traditional & port chutney onion & port chutney onion & Prawn port chutney

Atlantic prawns in a marie rose & brandy sauce on a Traditional Prawn Traditional Cocktail Prawn Cocktail Traditional Prawn Cocktail fresh bed of baby gem and crusty Atlantic prawns Atlantic in a marie prawns rose in & a brandy marie rose sauce & on brandy a slice sauceon onaa Atlantic prawns in a marie rose &abrandy sauce Duo of Scallops fresh bed of baby fresh gem bed and of baby a crusty gem slice and a crusty slice fresh bed of baby gem and a crusty slice Served on a bed leaf salad, in a chorizo cream sauce Duoof ofmixed Scallops Duo of Scallops Duo of Scallops MAIN COURSES Served on a bed Served of mixed on aleaf bedsalad, of mixed in aleaf chorizo salad, cream in a chorizo sauce cream sauce Served on a bed of mixed leaf salad, in a chorizo cream sauce MAIN COURSES MAIN COURSES Traditional Roast Turkey MAIN COURSES Honey roasted carrots & parsnips, Traditional Roast Traditional Turkey Roast roasted Turkey potatoes and Traditional Roast Turkey Honey roastedHoney carrots roasted & parsnips, carrots roasted &pigs parsnips, potatoes roasted and potatoes and a rich gravy & in blankets Honey roasted carrots & parsnips, roasted potatoes and a rich gravy &a pigs rich ingravy blankets & pigs of in blankets Slow Cooked Blade Beef

a rich gravy & pigs in blankets Slow Cooked Slow Blade Beef Blade of Beef Slow cooked blade inCooked aofred wine gravy, roasted honey Slow Cooked Blade ofgravy, Beefroasted honey Slow cooked blade Slow in cooked a red blade wine gravy, in a red roasted wine honey vegetabes & roasted potatoes Slow cooked blade in a red wine gravy, roasted honey vegetabes & roasted vegetabes potatoes & roasted potatoes

Pan Fried Fillet of Seabass

vegetabes & roasted potatoes Pan Fried Pan Seabass Fillet of Seabass Cooked in a Fillet herb &ofFried spiced butter, fennel crushed new Cooked in a herb Cooked & spiced in a herb butter, & Fillet spiced fennel of butter, crushed fennel new crushed new Pan Fried Seabass potatoes, traditional vegetables Cooked in a herb &and spiced butter, fennel crushed new potatoes, and traditional potatoes, and vegetables traditional vegetables

Nut Roast (v)(v) Nut Roastand (v)Nut Roast potatoes, traditional vegetables

A nut jewelled nut roast, served with nuts and berries, A jewelled Aroast, jewelled served nut with roast, nuts served and berries, with nuts roasted and berries, rootroasted roastedroot root Nut Roast (v) vegetables and a creamy white wine velute topped with onion vegetables and vegetables a creamy and white a creamy wine velute white topped wine velute with onion topped with onion A jewelled nut roast, served with nuts and berries, roasted root marmalade vegetables andmarmalade a creamy marmalade white wine velute topped with onion DESSERTS DESSERTS DESSERTS marmalade

Bathams

Traditional Christmas Pudding Traditional Christmas Traditional Pudding Christmas Pudding DESSERTS With brandy sauce With brandy sauce With brandy sauce Traditional Christmas Pudding - unrivalled quality pint!

Warm Chocolate Warm Brownie Chocolate Brownie Warm Chocolate Brownie With brandy sauce Try for yourself!

Served with ice-cream Served with or custard ice-cream custard Served with ice-cream oror custard Warm Chocolate Brownie Apple Crumble Apple Crumble Apple Crumble Served withwith ice-cream or custard Served with ice-cream Served custard ice-cream custard Served with or ice-cream oror custard Apple Crumble WHY NOT FINISH WHY WITH NOT FINISH OURWITH CHEESEBOARD, WITH OUR CHEESEBOARD, FOR 1 @ £4.50 FOR OR1FOR 1@ £4.50 2 @ £9 ORFOR FOR22@ @£9 £9 WHY NOT FINISH OUR CHEESEBOARD, @ £4.50 OR Served with ice-cream orFOR custard

To make a booking, Toplease make acall booking, on 01527 please call on 01527

a booking, please call on 01527 £20 gift voucher, A £20 redeemable gift voucher, withredeemable a with a To1make WHYANOT FINISH OUR CHEESEBOARD, OR FOR 2@ £9 A £20WITH gift voucher, redeemable with a FOR 821236@ or£4.50 email 821236 or email 821236 or email reservation for areservation table of 8 guests, for a table validof 8 guests, valid reservation for a table of 8 guests, valid info@vernonhanbury.co.uk To makeinfo@vernonhanbury.co.uk a booking, please call on 01527 £20 (exp gift redeemable a info@vernonhanbury.co.uk for use inA2025 for voucher, use March in 2025 2025) (exp Marchwith 2025) 821236 email for use in 2025 (exp March 2025) Depositorrequired reservation for a table of 8 guests, validDeposit required Deposit required info@vernonhanbury.co.uk

for use in 2025 (exp March 2025)

Deposit required Follow us on our socials for exciting things coming this December PLUS Exciting NEW Menu coming in January - Watch this space!

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Motor museum has Christmas all wrapped up

L

ooking for that spark of inspiration for the perfect Christmas gift? The British Motor Museum has plenty to choose from and every purchase supports the charity.

Home to more than 400 iconic classic and vintage cars, the museum offers an extraordinary day out for petrolheads, culture seekers and lovers of all things British so why not give the gift of a visit. Gift vouchers are available to buy online and are valid for 12 months.

Museum membership gives members free entry including all special weekend show days. They are also offered exclusive opportunities to preview new exhibitions, take a private tour and attend members only events. Gift vouchers for membership are available.

For the enthusiast who has everything, why not adopt a car? There are hundreds in the collection to choose from, so you’re bound to find something they’ll love. The scheme supports the overall work of the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust. Take a look at the museum’s online collections and choose any car from the ‘adoptable’ filter. Adopters get a digital adoption cer tificate and their name added to the car’s listing in the online collections.

Wrap up your Christmas shopping with lunch in the Sky Suite. Christmas lunches are available on December 4th, 10th, 12th and 17th . Visitors can enjoy a seasonal two-course or three-course lunch with all the trimmings, glass of wine or soft drink.

Entry to the museum is included for all diners on that day, and lunches must be pre-booked. To find out more, visit www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/ whats-on/festive-lunches

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To see the full range of gift ideas, visit https://shop. britishmotormuseum.co.uk

Follow folk hero Robin in an action-packed show E

njoy the heroic antics of Robin Hood and his Merry Men as he pits his wits against Prince John, his wife Queen Arachnid and the Sheriff of Nottingham while trying to capture the heart of Maid Marian.

Presented by Bromsgrove-based All & Sundry, Robin Hood is being staged at the Cobham Theatre at Bromsgrove School from December 14th to 22nd.

Director Alison Berriford said: “We pride ourselves on being an inclusive group embedded in the community, this is very much a ‘Bromsgrove show’. As a not-for-profit educational charity, we can offer great value for money for families and individuals as well as discounted rates for Blue Light and Armed Forces staff and local community groups.

“Our cast and crew all come from this area, and we involve many talented children who otherwise might not get the opportunity to perform on such a big stage.”

Matinees, including on December 14th and 15th, have family friendly timings. Tickets are available from the Cobham Theatre box office on 01527 579679 or online at www.bromsgrove-school. co.uk

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It’s a sparkling start

L

et the celebrations begin with André Rieu’s dazzling Christmas concert, Gold and Silver, with Bromsgrove Arts.

This magical event brings joy, warmth, and sparkle to the big screen. André will be joined on stage by the Johann Strauss Orchestra, along with special guest artists and the young and talented Emma Kok.

The concert will be screened on Sunday, December 11 at 7pm and Wednesday, December 14 at 2.30pm. Included in the admission is a free drink.

To welcome in the New Year, Bromsgrove Ar ts will be having a Movie New Year Par ty on Tuesday, December 31 from 8.30pm, with a screening of The Fall Guy (12A) at 9pm followed by a disco to see in 2025.

With action, comedy, romance, and a pair of marvellously matched stars (Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt), The Fall Guy might be the rare mainstream movie with something to entertain everyone.

Fresh from an almost career-ending accident, this working-class hero must track down a missing movie star, solve a conspiracy and try to win back the love of his life while still doing his day job. What could possibly go right?

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to the festive season!

While it may be bleak outside, enjoy the recently released The Critic (15) on Sunday, January 12th at 7.30pm. Academy Award nominee Sir Ian McKellen stars as a powerful London theatre critic who lures a struggling actress into a blackmail scheme with deadly consequences.

This suspenseful thriller co-stars Gemma Arterton, Mark Strong and Lesley Manville.

Fly Me to the Moon (12A) on Wednesday, January 15th at 7.30pm, is a sharp, stylish comedy-drama set against the high-stakes backdrop of NASA’s historic Apollo 11 moon landing. Brought in to fix NASA’s public image, sparks fly in all directions as marketing maven Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) wreaks havoc on launch director Cole Davis’s (Channing Tatum) already difficult task. When the White House deems the mission too important to fail, Jones is directed to stage a fake moon landing as back-up and the countdown truly begins.

There’s live drama with the return of Don’t Go into The Cellar on Wednesday, January 22nd at 7.30pm with their production of The Thirty-Nine Steps. Awardwinning actor Jonathan Goodwin writes and performs this new stage adaptation of the classic Edwardian spy thriller by John Buchan.

First published in 1915, this popular thriller has been adapted by Goodwin. He plays man-on-the-run Richard Hannay, falsely accused of a murder he did not commit. He is pursued across the moors of Scotland by the nefarious Black Stone, a clandestine criminal organization hell-bent on plunging the world into a global war. In a race against time, Hannay must evade capture and certain death at the hands of the criminals responsible and prevent the assassination of a foreign dignitary by anarchist spies.

Bromsgrove Arts, the home of Fairfield Flicks and Fairfield Music, is located at Fairfield Village Hall (B61 9LZ).

Free parking and a licenced bar. For information and advanced tickets for all events visit www.bromsgrovearts.org.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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Enjoy 50s musical classic in its original glory

S

outh Pacific, the FeckenOdeon’s offering on Saturday, December 28th at 7.30pm, may have been on the telly a million times and its toe-tapping tunes perhaps seem over familiar but until you see it on the big screen you haven’t seen it at all.

The U certificated movie was filmed using the Todd-AO process which gave a huge and incredibly sharp picture combined with six channel stereophonic sound.

Few cinemas in the UK were able to afford the special projectors and amplifiers needed so, unless you went to a big city centre theatre during the first release, you wouldn’t have seen it shown as its makers intended. Now the film has been painstakingly restored and, through the wonders of digital projection, we can present it in all its original glory.

Surprisingly, despite all the glamour and glitz, the plot featuring the tender love story of a young Navy nurse (Mitzi Gaynor) and an older French plantation owner (Rossano Brazzi) on a US occupied South Sea island during World War Two still has the power to move you.

The parallel and doomed love story of a young lieutenant and an island girl is perhaps even more poignant - and the music? Well,

that’s stood the test of time and you’re certain to come out humming one of the tunes. It’s the ideal post-Christmas treat.

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

Get into the Big Band swing this Christmas

F

or nearly a quarter of a century, the Neil Coley Big Band has been entertaining audiences across the West Midlands.

Working with nationally acclaimed vocalists, the band brings to life the golden era of big band music, featuring household names such as Glenn Miller, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, right up to present day stars including Michael Bublé and Adele.

Together with singer Rich Hazlewood, the band promises a selection of quality jazz from its talented

40 Completely Bromsgrove

players and exceptional soloists at Feckenham Village Hall on Saturday, December 14th at 7.30pm.

Join us for A Swingin’ Christmas with The Bog Band Greats as the band takes you on a journey from the classic golden age of jazz right up to the present day, with more than a hint of yuletide good cheer.

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

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The future looks bright

at

T

he weather might be getting colder, but things have been hotting up here at Artrix! Our October and November shows were all incredible – from theatre productions, to tributes, to dance shows, and a wonderful community concert of remembrance and commemoration – we had something for everyone!

December is all about one thing – Panto! We are delighted to welcome the fabulous Dick Whittington Pantomime from 6th to 29th December. Produced by Elite Pantomimes and Directed by Elliot Clark, this promises to bring fun, laughter and interactive magic to delight both kids and adults. Join Dick Whittington and his trusty cat seeking fame and fortune in this rags-to-riches tale as they try to defeat the evil King Rat and his gang of revolting rodents.

Featuring a hilarious script, spectacular scenery and colourful costumes, alongside music, fun and of course, a sprinkle of Panto magic, Dick Whittington is a not to be missed show! Tickets for matinees and evening shows are available from just £20.

Artrix Holding Trust and Bromsgrove District Council. BCA Chair of Trustees Graham Mackenzie said “Thanks to our amazing team of volunteers we’ve had a hugely successful time at Artrix during 2024.

We are excited to be moving forward to bring more high-quality events to our much-loved community venue through 2025 and beyond. Next year promises to be a year to remember with a fabulous array of theatre and music already booked in with us. We look forward to welcoming people to Artrix as audience or volunteers.”

We’ll be welcoming in 2025 with ‘Glow Up!’ a fabulous family party full of songs, Zumba and games. Come along to Artrix for this afternoon event and start your New Year’s Eve celebrations bright and early.

Tribute acts will brighten up January with The King’s Voice starring Gordon Hendricks as Elvis on 16th & 17th, Taylor Fever, an electrifying tribute production to worldwide megastar, Taylor Swift on 23rd, Meat Loud a Tribute to Meatloaf and Jim Steinman lights up Sunday 26th and the musical extravaganza Women in Rock concludes the month on the 31st with a celebration of the greatest female anthems.

Looking ahead to 2025, Bromsgrove Community Arts (BCA) are thrilled to be continuing to operate the theatre, following an agreement reached with

Tickets for all performances are available at www. artrixbromsgrove.co.uk or via our onsite box office Wed and Sat 10am-12pm.

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Register now for Primrose hospice’s annual Treecycle P

rimrose Hospice in Bromsgrove has announced the return of its third annual Treecycle campaign.

The scheme is a simple and convenient solution for those who are unsure what to do with their real Christmas trees after the festive season.

By making a donation to the hospice, local residents can have their trees picked up directly from their homes, saving them the hassle of disposal while supporting a great cause.

This year, the Primrose Hospice elves will be out in full force, collecting trees between January 11th and 13th.

They will be collecting trees in the below postal areas: B60, B61, B80, B96, B97, B98, B45, WR9, Alvechurch, Feckenham and Inkberrow.

Hannah Isaac, fundraiser, said: “We’re really excited about this winter’s Treecycle campaign. We have been blown away with the amount of support in previous years and are hoping this one will be bigger and better than ever, so please bear us in mind when you aren’t quite sure what to do with your tree.”

Funds raised through the Treecycle campaign will go directly towards supporting the vital services provided

by Primrose Hospice, which offers care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses and families. By

participating in the campaign, you will not only be making a sustainable choice for tree disposal but also contributing to a cause that makes a real difference in the local community.

Register your tree for collection at: primrosehospice.org/events/treecycle or call their fundraising team on 01527 889796.

Fifth Treecycle boost for children’s cancer charity W

orcestershire-based charity the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust have launched their fifth Christmas Treecycle.

The annual fundraising campaign helps the charity fund practical, financial, and emotional support for families affected by childhood cancer throughout Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.

Between January 9th and 12th, volunteers will collect Christmas trees from residents’ front gardens around Worcester, Redditch and Bromsgrove, with their #BeMoreFrank team also collecting in Hereford and Powys.

Supporters who register their unwanted Christmas tree for collection will have the opportunity to make a small donation to help towards the £700,000 needed per year to run the charity so they can continue their vital work with young oncology families.

Abbie Bissell-Blazier, campaign manager and charity fundraiser, said: “We are so excited to be able to run our Treecycle again this year. The campaign helps fund essential support for oncology children, but it is also a fun, festive way for local businesses and residents to come together to help make a difference. We are so grateful for all the support we have received already from volunteers and business owners.”

The local businesses volunteering their services include Green Cable, Dormer Plant Hire and Vietec.

For more details and to register your tree, visit www.gkcct.org/christmas-treecycle Follow Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust on social media for the latest event updates or to express an interest in volunteering as an individual or business.

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Sense and sensibility

A

new brand on the block? KGM (which stands for KG Mobility) is a rebranding and continuation of products from the former SsangYong marque - vehicles that were rather ‘low key’, exceptional value and underestimated.

Bringing established top quality models to wider attention is now the name of the game and now under ownership of the Korean KG Group we have a new model, also at a competitive price. Enter the Torres with either petrol power or fully electric in K30 or K40 specification. A 4WD and hybrid are sure to follow.

This five seat SUV is ready, willing and able to serve up a value-for-money package that doesn’t stint on quality. It’s smart, capacious, comfortable and certainly deserves a close look. Pricing starts at £31,995 for the petrol version and £39,995 for the electric EVX; and there are some enticing finance packages.

The petrol variant with a 163bhp, 1.5 litre petrol engine driving through a six speed auto gearbox is fast enough at 120mph and you will average near 40 mpg. (KGM conservatively claims 33mpg). In contrast

44 Completely Bromsgrove

there’s the electric model with the 73.4 kWh ‘blade’ battery pack powering a single e-motor turning out about 204 bhp and driving the front wheels.

Range is a respectable 287 miles. It can be economical in the extreme, super smooth and silent and rockets off from standstill, plus there’s oodles of torque for overtaking and towing.

With either petrol or electric you are on to a winner.

However, if you rely on the public infrastructure you might want to do more research as some public chargers are nothing less than highway robbery. A home charger and a good grasp of the different types of public charging systems and which ones to avoid, is essential. Whichever version of propulsion you choose, the KGM Torres is a sensible option.

DRIVE TIME

in tech packed Torres

There’s no need, of course, to elaborate on the virtues of the SUV configuration, save to say that its proven versatility so often turns out to save the day. And just to prove that the Torres is very much a 21st century motor, it comes crammed, as you would expect, with all the latest tech wizardry all cleverly deployed in instant user-friendly fashion.

road and traffic enjoyed in the electric Torres as you are whisked along without fuss. The petrol version is only a whisper behind.

I relished the splendidly comfortable driving position, the excellent all-round visibility, the assured handling - not to mention the satisfying feeling provided by ample power plus road presence. I wanted to continue up the road for the full 287 mile range in the EVX.

‘Which one should I have?’ I hear you ask. Well - for some, opting for on-trend motoring has to be the way to go and having experienced the EVX as the prime example of the latest electric car technology I can understand that. But...how often have you been bamboozled with endless lists of pros and cons that instead of simply buying a new car on the basis of its straightforward appeal, you’ve found yourself turning to the Delphic Oracle.

It’s an automotive marriage of head and heart. Or to put it another way, a combination of sense and sensibility. I must admit to an increasing addiction to the smooth swift running that is the hallmark of electric propulsion. Magic carpet analogies may be threadbare by now but as I can conjure up no better term for the seamless transitioning through

I’m inclined to think that both versions of the Torres make a clean sweep of the opposition. Here are highly specified modern machines that buoy you up at the same time as suiting you down to the ground.

“Oh Oracle. Should I buy petrol or electric?” “No idea!

As long as it’s a Torres.”

But as for me, I rue the day they got rid of the starting handle. I prefer diesel.

by Syd Taylor

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Photos by Chris Jepson

Player of the Month went to goalkeeper Charlie Price

Scott takes charge at Sporting T

here’s been a change of manager at Bromsgrove Sporting, as Scott Adey-Linforth has replaced the outgoing Paul Smith.

Owing to increased work commitments, Smith made the decision to stand down as manager, with his final game being a spirited 0-0 draw at Suffolk-based Leiston, a game the Rouslers were unlucky not to win.

Also departing was assistant manager John Snape.

Following that news, it was announced that Adey-Linforth, a first team coach in the management set up, would lead the team on an interim basis.

However, this would only last two games, as an emphatic 8-2 Worcestershire Senior Cup win over Pershore Town and an impressive 3-0 league success over Barwell were enough for the Aston Villa first team analyst to be given the job full time.

by Max Banner

commemorations, led via an impeccable rendition of The Last Post by Reverend Ray Khan from St John’s Church.

The Unity Sport Club, a local community initiative with a mission to promote sport inclusion, were mascots at the game, along with Bromsgrove Sporting Colts Under 10s.

The winner of the October Player of the Month accolade was goalkeeper Charlie Price. Solid performances against Banbury United and Kettering Town were no doubt factors in the popular shot stopper winning the award.

Sporting has announced a new charity partnership with St Basils, a homelessness charity supporting young vulnerable people in Bromsgrove and across the New manager Midlands. St Basils provides safe spaces Winger Fin Holmes, who scored against Scott Adey-Linforth for young people at risk of homelessness, Barwell, was one of a trio of new signings, while helping them develop skills needed to secure a the others being attacker Jack Newall, who is on loan from Burton Albion, and striker Ryan Boothe, brighter, independent future. formerly of Bedworth United and Halesowen Town.

The new Under 21s side enjoyed thumping wins Sporting’s first game in November, against Bedford Town, was a very special occasion, as this fixture saw the club pay tribute to Bromsgrove Rovers legend Mark Crisp, who sadly passed away aged just 60.

Former Rovers teammates, along with Mark’s son Max, walked onto the field of play prior to kick-off and took party in a minute’s applause, along with everybody in attendance.

This game also saw the club’s Remembrance

46 Completely Bromsgrove

over Stourport Swifts’ and Cadbury Athletic’s Under 21s sides at the start of November.

Forward Archie Thurston and defender Bo Morris, both from the U21s, featured in the first team squad for the Pershore game, with Morris making it onto the pitch as a second half substitute.

For the latest news, including updates on the Ladies, Ladies Development, Veterans, Colts and Girls sides, head to bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Paul Rigby Hyundai.

01527 872071

sales@hyundai-bromsgrove.co.uk

Paul Rigby Group Hyundai Bromsgrove 12 Station St, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B60 2BS www.paulrigbygroup.co.uk/hyundai Completely Bromsgrove

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