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First Issue April/May 2018

Completely

Bromsgrove

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Welcome Welcome to the first edition of Completely Bromsgrove!

I’m Michele Ford and I have lived in Bromsgrove for most of my life. I was born in Stoke Heath, went to Finstall Primary School and then onto St Johns. At the tender age of 11, my parents decided to leave Bromsgrove but I never really settled. I loved riding my pony through Hanbury Woods and around the Woodgate area, seeing the first ‘Mud Hut’ built at Avoncroft and spending many weekends and school holidays helping to pack mud on the walls. Bromsgrove had given me so many happy memories, I always knew I would return. I have now been back in Bromsgrove for the past 25 years!

Having worked in media for the last 20 years, I had an urge to launch a magazine that was designed especially for the people of Bromsgrove. Offering locally sourced editorial with things to do and see, featuring some of the best local businesses, I’m hoping Completely Bromsgrove, has something for everyone.

So, without further ado, I hope you enjoy this first edition and look forward to hearing from you with your thoughts and any interesting articles that you may want me to cover in future issues. Wishing you all a Happy Easter and I hope you manage to get out and about to visit some of the open spaces and attractions we are so blessed to have on our doorstep!

Best Regards

6

Michele Ford

18

Contents

6 8 10 12 14 16 17 18 19 20

31

Battlefield Brook Spring is here!

Gardening Blissful bedrooms Contemplating moving?

Woodcote Manor Brewing Company competition The Cross Bayley’s Motoring Tips for spring & summer travel

Completely

Bromsgrove Tel: 07854 171329 Email: michelebromsgrove@outlook.com

Sales:

Michele Ford Tel: 07854 171329

Design:

Matt Walton Design

32 38 Bromsgrove Rugby FC Avoncroft Cricket Club Bromsgrove waterways The secrets of Hagley Hall Bromsgrove 30th Fun Run Toyah Wilcox Orchestra of St John Bromsgrove 35 Spring poem 36 What’s On 38 RHS Malvern Spring Festival competition 24 26 27 29 29 31 32

Print:

Vale Press 6, Willersey Business Park, Willersey WR12 7RR www.valegroup.co.uk

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

Completely Bromsgrove

3

Catshill Girls F.C.

D

o you know any girls who would love the chance to get involved in football? Well we’re making it possible with our SSE Wildcats football centre as we at Catshill Girls Football club are proud to be part of the F.A.’s SSE Wildcats programme.

Research has shown that the majority of girls prefer to play in girls only football & the earlier a girl starts playing the more likely they are to have a long term relationship with the game.

Catshill Girls teams play in the Mercian Fortis Girls football league and see this initiative as an opportunity to get more girls into football and give them the chance to progress into one of our teams. We play our games on a Saturday morning at Catshill Middle School.

Our SSE Wildcats Girls’ Football Centre will provide girls aged 5-11 with regular opportunities to play football. The initiative offers organised sessions in a fun and engaging environment created exclusively for girls. More than 200 clubs have been established throughout England in 2017 and a further 800 are set to launch in 2018 of which we are one.

SSE Wildcats Girls’ Football sessions take place on a weekly basis at Catshill Middle School on a Wednesday evening from 6pm to 7 pm each week from 11th April 2018 and will provide a safe environment where girls can play football.

We, SSE and The FA hope the initiative will inspire participants to engage with football, meet new friends, develop fundamental skills, learn new things and create the foundation for a lifelong love of football.

The initiative is in line with The FA’s Game plan for Growth, with the target of doubling girls’ participation in the sport by 2020. The strategy for women’s and girls’ football at grassroots level includes initiatives alongside SSE Wildcats, such as FA Girls’ Football Week.

In the first instance contact us at catshill.ssewildcats@aol.co.uk or Alan Williams on 07786 983 951

SIGN UP NOW

HAVE FUN, MAKE FRIENDS

PLAY 4 CompletelyFOOTBALL Bromsgrove

Girls 4 - 16

Battlefield Brook

Sanders Park, Bromsgrove S

anders Park is a municipal park which was given to the town of Bromsgrove in 1910. It was given by Lucy Mary Maud Sanders (1865-1945) and Mary Beatrice Sanders (1857-1951).

They were the daughters of Benjamin Hadley Sanders and the gift was in memory of their father. He had been the clerk of the Bromsgrove Local Board for fifty years. The Park has a lake, a bandstand, tennis cour ts and other facilities. The main entrance is from Kidderminster Road (A448).

There is free car parking.

Here as in most of the park the brook is carried in a concrete trough. The brook’s name relates to a battle or more likely a skirmish in the Bromsgrove area. Although this might be related to the Civil War in the 17th century, it could be much earlier but noone seems completely sure.

Needless to say however the brook has become decidedly tired looking over the years and clearly is in need of significant renovation. Luckily however salvation is at hand - from perhaps an unlikely source!

Alongside ensuring that customers receive great water supply and sewerage services, Severn Trent Water, the water company supplying Bromsgrove, also has environmental responsibilities.

Water companies in the UK are governed by OFWAT. Every five years all water companies are subject to a Price Review in which OFWAT outline targets that need to be achieved. This process is also driven by what customers value most, ensuring that environmental improvements are a balanced investment, delivering a practical result.

To comply with recent changes in the in the Water Framework Directive (WFD) the National Environment Programme has been developed alongside stakeholders such as Environment Agency to improve the quality of watercourses within our region. This also ensures that any impact on the natural environment through supplying water to customers is balanced through improvements under Severn Trent Water’s ‘Restoring Sustainable Abstractions’ programme.

6 Completely Bromsgrove

Battlefield Brook is one of eight schemes across the region where Severn Trent Water will be implementing improvements in this asset management period (2015-2020) to meet OFWAT requirements.

A project team has been working on this scheme in the background for a while together with experts to develop a design & construct solution to not only ensure that the environmental improvements required are delivered but also to limit impacts on and improve the amenity for park users.

Construction activities have been planned to best avoid school holidays and park activities such as Bonfire Night. Safety for all park users, whether they be adults, children, dogs, or other wildlife is paramount to the project.

Construction of Phase 1 works started in November 2017 and will run through to March 2018. Phase 2 starts in February 2019, which has intentionally been programmed to start a year after Phase 1 to enable vegetation sufficient time to flourish and for wildlife to settle in.

This work is all about improving the environment of the park for both the wildlife and all park users. As involvement from the local community in this project is welcomed.

There are a number of ways you can be involved: Schools – If you would like to arrange a site visit or learn more about the construction industry and Science Technology Engineering & Maths (STEM) careers from our ambassadors let us know.

Planting – Get involved in helping to plant new vegetation to transform the brook.

Wildlife recording – Help us to record and gain a better understanding of the species and habitats that are present and how this changes with the changing landscape.

Training – If you are experienced in working with youth and the environment and would like to use this project as a spring board to reach out to members of the community and share your knowledge about the local habitat and importance of conservation, please get in touch.

Other – If you would like to get involved in another way not listed, please drop us a line with your suggestion at: contactus@nmcnomenca.co.uk Please check out further details by visiting the web site: https://sites.google.com/northmid.co.uk/battlefieldbrook/home

Completely Bromsgrove

7

Spring is here!

S

pring is finally in the air after the Beast from the East extended winter into the first official days of the new season.

With the clocks going forward on March 25 and the lighter nights and longer days it will bring, thoughts can turn to giving our homes a spring clean or indeed a makeover.

Of course, if a full kitchen upgrade is in budget this is nearly always a sound investment which more than pays for itself given what it adds to the market value of your property.

It’s time to dust down those corners and crevices, get behind the settee with the vacuum cleaner and face up to the state of your windows after the home’s winter hibernation.

Why not upcycle your wooden furniture (or unwanted pieces from buy and sell websites) with chalk colour paints finished with a wax overcoat? It can extend their lifetime by many years and give an immediate new theme to any room.

A good clean of the home is good for the soul and it can be great exercise too. It’s known that a decent spruce up of your pad will burn calories as well as many fitness routines. Just check your Fitbit or keep your phone in your pocket to see the steps you’ve achieved!

Moving around your furniture while freshening up the look of a room could burn more than 200 calories – an hour’s cleaning including hoovering and sweeping / mopping floors knocks a similar total off your calorie count!

Modern-day cleaning products are super-efficient but can contain too many chemicals for those of us preferring a more organic approach to living.

Don’t forget the outside spaces too as we’ll hopefully be getting to sit in the sun again soon.

It’s time to think about mowing the lawns, tidying up borders and freshening them up with mulch.

Give the patios and paths a jet wash to get rid of moss and algae and perhaps give your garden furniture a fresh lick of paint.

Springtime’s a busy time but worth it as we work towards freshening up our homes and clearing out the clutter so we can enjoy for the lighter days and nights ahead.

Thankfully there are many alternative ways to cleanse your home using more natural ingredients.

White vinegar and water in a spray bottle can shift carpet stains (always test an inconspicuous area first!) White vinegar and water can also be mixed to clean your windows. Coffee and tea stains can be shifting by wiping vinegar around cups and mugs with a sponge.

Baking soda has a wide range of uses from cleaning sinks and toilets to removing marks off walls or, when salt is added, as an oven cleaner too.

Covering some lemon wedges in a bowl of water then putting in the microwave for a few minutes can remove odours and degrease the inside of the oven, making cleaning much easier.

Concentrates of lemon, lavender and thyme can be used to create a natural aromatic air freshener, thus avoiding the need to use chemical-containing aerosol sprays or expensive plug-in options.

Giving your property a fresh look for 2018 needn’t cost the earth. It’s easy to get carried away with an expensive overhaul of your rooms but just changing certain key elements can give the whole home a lift.

New cushions or curtains can give an instant new colour theme to any room and while greys are predicted to still be the neutral colour of choice for 2018, bright colours are forecast to augment our décor styles.

A fresh coat of paint or even creating a feature wall in a bold colour or by wallpapering it doesn’t cost the earth and will transform a space in hours.

While upgrading the flooring in a hallway, stairs or one of the main receptions can give the whole floor a lift.

In the kitchen why not try new work surfaces or just new cupboard fronts rather than a whole refit. A new set of matching kitchenware is a simple and affordable way to upgrade too.

8 Completely Bromsgrove

by James Iles

KSH Carpet & Flooring Ltd K

SH have been trading for over 40 years with the last 15 years in Bromsgrove.

Our aim has always been to offer a wide range of quality floor coverings at competitive prices and we are always looking for something out of the ordinary to offer our customers.

When we do find something different, we research it thoroughly, to ensure that we are offering something that is good value and that will give years of service and wear.

This also applies to the types of underlays, smoothing compounds and fixings that we recommend.

There are some new and exciting products and materials coming on to the market in the form of carpets, timber, cork and LVT’s in a vast range of colours and designs. Amtico for instance, with it’s countless bespoke designs from traditional to contemporary. Riviera Home, Telenzo, Jacaranda, Brockway

and Alternative Flooring carpets, to name but a few with their Wool Velvets, Twists and Featured Finishes. Sisals, Coir and Jute are also available in various designs and colours.

FLOORING

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OF COLOURS & STYLES VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

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FRESHEN UP YOUR FLOORS, SPRING HAS ARRIVED! At KSH, choosing the right flooring to brighten up your home could not be any easier. Whatever the room!

It’s that time of year when you fancy a change and whatever the room or style, we can help you achieve it. From contemporary new carpet ranges, traditional real woods and stylish designer vinyls. At KSH there is something for everyone.

Visit our showroom or call us today on 01527 880778 Over 40 years experience Full measuring service No-obligation quotations Exceptional quality, competitive prices Professional installation Insurance work

18 Worcester Rd Bromsgrove B61 7AE

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Mon to Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 9am-4pm kshflooring.co.uk

9

09/03/2018 09:44 Completely Bromsgrove

Hello A great welcome to this new local publication which I hope you will find informative and interesting. I will be contributing to the gardening pages in each issue.

I am a local nurseryman growing plants to sell locally, this helps with both air miles and the environment and also a benefit to the plant as they are grown with the local climate and thats important in getting plants off to a quick start.

Trained at Pershore Horticultural college, each month I will focus on a specific plant of interest or on tasks around the garden on a topical seasonal subject. Pointing out pest and disease issues along the way. I hope you find it both inspiring and useful.

Sweet Peas

W

hat other plant can epitomise the English summer cottage garden more than the fragrant Sweet pea. Lathyrus odoratus native to Sicily and southern Italy it is an annual climber easily growing to 2 metres and is now possibly Britains favourite flower.

Scrambling up a trellis or Wigwam your sweet peas will provide you with pickings of highly scented blossoms right through till the end of summer. Perfect in a container or the border they are a very rewarding plant to grow and so easy. Think of Sweet Peas and you think of those pastel shades but they come in all colours through to purples and maroons, there is an almost black and even a lime green. The only colour still elusive to breeders is yellow. It has become increasingly fashionable for florists to use sweet peas in bridal bouquets for that informal hand tied cottage garden look.

your plants have several sets of leaves pinch them back to the second pair of leaves as this will encourage a stronger plant that will carry even more blooms. Sweet Peas do need plenty of moisture and ideally be in a position to have their head in the sun and roots in the shade.Tie them to the support until they start to twine together, then you will be rewarded with those sweet smelling flowers in abundance. Sweet Peas do need to be picked frequently even if you have to give them away, for if the seeds set your plants will think it’s all over and stop flowering so pick pick pick.

Autumn sowings of seeds can over winter in a cool greenhouse so your strong plants get off to an early start, in spring plant six seeds to a one-Litre pot of compost 7.5mm deep or sow direct into the ground in April when the soil is warming up. Alternatively ready sown pots are available in garden centres and nurseries, Wagon House gardens at the Jinney ring craft centre will stock a good choice of pot grown Sweet Peas for direct Planting. Do protect the young plants from Slugs and Snails and they can be attacked by aphids when the growth is young and sweet. When

Be inspired to plant up some Sweet Peas this summer preferably near to where you lounge on those heady summer evenings and who knows you may even get hooked on growing the delightful Sweet Pea.

10  Completely Bromsgrove

Karl Strawbridge

Wagon House Gardens The Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury, B60 4BU 01527 821421

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11

6 Steps to a blissful bedroom Spring is the perfect time to revamp your bedroom and make it into a peaceful sanctuary. Follow our guide to find out how.

Make your bed the centrepiece It’s easy to update your bedroom so that it’s a place where you can relax and rejuvenate. Whether you have a bedstead or a divan, make sure that it’s supremely comfortable; if not, it could be time to upgrade it. Ideally, mattresses should be replaced every eight years. If possible, position the bed so that you see it as soon as you walk through the door, making it the focus of the whole room.

For the best night’s sleep, make your bedroom a tech-free zone, opt for a well upholstered headboard and choose luxurious bedlinen that’s truly inviting. This season, tropical prints, painterly florals and subtle geometrics with pops of colour are all on trend.

Calming colours Redecorating your bedroom is one way to give it a new look, but think carefully about the colour scheme first. Bright or deep shades of red or purple tend to stimulate the brain, rather than calm it. The best colours for optimum sleep are neutral tones of pale cream, cool greens or blues, or warm yellows and oranges which make the room appear restful. If you want to use wallpaper, don’t overdo the pattern; either choose a small design or go for a stronger image on one feature wall.

Window dressing Dressing the windows in your bedroom isn’t just for decoration as there are practical issues to consider too. You can create a soft, romantic feel with drapes in sumptuous fabrics but if you find curtains too fussy, opt for shutters for a streamlined look.

Although it’s great to flood the room with natural light, if you don’t want your sleep interrupted by the sunrise, install efficient blackout blinds or shutters. Blinds can also protect your privacy if your window overlooks the neighbours or a busy street.

by Michelle Higgs

12 Completely Bromsgrove

Cut the clutter It’s scientifically proven that you’ll get a better night’s sleep without lots of mess on show. Spring is a great time to de-clutter, so get rid of anything you don’t need or want. Good storage is vital; wall-to-wall fitted wardrobes are useful for providing a place for everything, especially shoes, jewellery, knitwear etc. Don’t forget hidden storage under the bed, in an ottoman or a window seat. Use shelves or drawers in your bedside table to store books and other items which need to be easily accessible.

Get the lighting right In a bedroom, the lighting should be flexible so that it provides soft illumination prior to sleep and stronger lighting for dressing, reading etc. If necessary, employ an electrician to install sockets where you want them. Ideally, there should be three or four different kinds of lighting such as table lamps by the bed, spotlights above the wardrobe or mirrors and perhaps a floor lamp near a chair. Above all, it should be dimmable so that you can change the mood at the flick of a switch.

Accessorise A few carefully chosen pieces as accessories will help to bring your new look bedroom together. Choose a plush carpet with an extra rug if you like and add a comfortable armchair if you have space. Don’t forget to include lots of tactile fabrics on cushions, throws and bedspreads for texture and colour. Finally, personalise your bedroom with a few key accessories which mean something to you. This could be anything from treasured family photographs and holiday souvenirs through to antiques or pieces of art.

Treat yourself to some crisp, new bedlinen for spring from Dunelm’s Mila range. Mila king size duvet cover and pillowcase set, £38.00; ombre throw, £40.00.

This glamorous Ferdinand table lamp from Sweetpea & Willow makes a perfect contemporary style bedside light, £110.00.

Add some colour with the sumptuously padded Lexie Bedstead in teal from Furniture Village; £699 for a king size bed.

A statement bed like the French-style Raffaella from Sweetpea & Willow would be a gorgeous centrepiece in any room, £1495.00.

Dunelm www.dunelm.com | 0845 1 65 65 65 Furniture Village www.furniturevillage.co.uk | 0800 804 8879 Fitted wardrobes from IKEA provide a place for everything.

TYSSEDAL bed frame, £275 (mattress sold separately); TYSSEDAL chest of six drawers, £200; PAX wardrobe from £150 with TYSSEDAL glass doors, £80 each.

IKEA www.ikea.com | 020 3645 0015 Sweetpea & Willow www.sweetpeaandwillow.com | 0345 257 2627 Completely Bromsgrove

13

Contemplating moving, your timing could be perfect!

W

inter may not be behind us yet, but, as far as the property market is concerned, spring is definitely in the air! The latest figures from Rightmove suggest a cautiously positive market. Of the relatively modest 1.5% annual increase in the price of new-to-market properties on the portal, 0.8% of this occurred Jan-Feb 2018!

This is very much in line with our own observations of a very buoyant start to the year, with enquiries from both buyers and sellers on the up. To put this in context, many properties coming to market at this time of year would be expected to be priced at 1.6% higher than the previous month, so 0.8% demonstrates that these sellers are serious about selling.

It is the enquiries from sellers that are most encouraging.

Only when more people come to market can buyer demand be satisfied. Some people delay moving because they feel they may not find a suitable property to buy. (This is a shame as we always have ‘off-market’ properties available for these buyers/ sellers).

The SDLT (Stamp Duty) break given to first-time buyers has undoubtedly had the desired effect, with about a third of sales going to this group of buyers. This makes so much sense as, according to the Halifax, it costs over 11% more to rent each month, than it does to buy, excluding any capital appreciation!

Indeed, according to the Association of Residential Lettings

Agents (ARLA) the supply of rental properties fell by 8% last month, which will only serve to put more upward pressure on rents.

The momentum has therefore started early this year, possibly due to pent-up frustrations caused by last year’s economic and political uncertainties. Combined with the usual spring rush, 2018 could turn out to be a pivotal year that sees more people who want to move house being able to do precisely that. And OUR job is to help make it happen! So if you’re contemplating a move, your timing could be perfect.

Why not call us for a friendly no-obligation chat on 01527 872479 and let’s turn that snow into go!

Let Your House Stand Out from the Competition Here at Arden Estates we use the latest proven marketing techniques, including high quality professional photography, 2D and 3D Floor Plans, extensive online marketing, social media, local newspaper advertising, quality brochures and a unique database of existing buyers all searching for property in your area.

We operate on a ‘no sale, no fee’ basis, so you’ve nothing to lose!

Call us today on 01527 872479 to book your FREE Valuation.

prices from just

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Let us show your property in its best possible light 14 Completely Bromsgrove

inside

TheVillage

Issue 173 January 2017

ISSN 1466-3376

Village Loses a Treasure Page 6

Hillscourt is set in the beautiful Lickey Hills, just on the outskirts of Birmingham, offering a unique wedding/function venue.

Join the Adventure!

Page 17

Editorial:

Editor: Sally Oldaker Publisher: Richard Peach The Limes Alvechurch Worcestershire B48 7RR

Christmas Crackers Pages 20–23

Tel: 0121 445 6757 email:

n

news@villageonline.co.uk

To advertise in TheVillage

Excellent catering Fully licensed bar n Complimentary bridal suite n 55 en-suite bedrooms n Attractive grounds and gardens n Secure car parking n Good value for money n Licensed for civil ceremonies n

Tales From the Cut Pages 32–33

Call Louise Robinson:

0121 445 6757 email:

louise@thevillage.co (no uk!)

visit: villageonline.co.uk The Village (ISSN 1466-3376) is published by Platform Publishing & Media Ltd (Reg Office: 87 Hewell Rd, Barnt Green, B45 8NL) and printed by Buxton Press in Derbyshire. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written consent is prohibited.

The publishers do not accept responsibility for any errors made in advertisements or for claims made by any advertisers which are incorrect.

The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising for any reason.

All material submitted for publication is done so at the owner’s risk and no responsibility is accepted by the publisher for its return.

Independent Schools Pages 39–45

Garden Resolutions Pages 51–52

Cover: Frost-covered teasels, captured by Village reader Dennis Brown, of Hopwood.

Hillscourt, Rednal, Birmingham B45 8RS. Tel: 0121 457 6100 www.hillscourt.co.uk Completely Bromsgrove

15

Woodcote Manor Brewing Company

R

eal Ales brewed without compromise from a brewery in Bromsgrove.

What began for William Taylor as just a hobby and a passion for brewing has now become a serious business, thanks to a great deal of local support from the public, local businesses and CAMRA members alike. Operating from an old dairy the brewery has always sourced many local ingredients, including some home grown hops, local counties hops and locally produced honey and ginger. The natural delicious flavours and aromas of the beers though are the companies’ real goals, and like all perfect recipes the quality and quantity of only the very best ingredients is paramount. Their bottled beers are conditioned without pasteurisation or artificial carbonisation. Yeast is the hallmark of living ale; going through a secondary fermentation in the bottle provides natural effervescence and wonderful fresh flavours and aromas.

Woodcote Manor Brewing Company produces 3 main ales for the discerning beer drinker available for both trade and consumers. Oatmeal Stout 4.5% abv is a dark chocolate brown ale with a rich creamy head, it contains wheat and barley from an exclusive recipe and is definitely a beer to savour with a steak and ale pie on a winters evening, preferably beside a log fire. Single Hop 4.4% abv is golden in colour with Fuggles Hops and just a hint of local honey and ginger; it has a really pleasing initial burst of bitterness followed by a sweet long lasting aftertaste, it’s perfectly paired with chicken and great for barbecues. The Indian Pale Ale 4.5% abv, has a very complex malt flavour that is balanced by tropical fruity aromas and flavours from the additions of Mosaic, Simcoe, Equinox, Cluster and Cascade hops, it is extremely addictive to the senses and partners perfectly with spicy food.

As well as the main staple ales, seasonal beers are produced along with one off specials like the Green Hop in September, and also now the brewery is designing and producing unique beers for publicans from their own wish list of beer styles.

For more information: Tel: 01527 558 141 email: sales@woodcotemanor.com Woodcote Manor, Kidderminster Road, Dodford, Bromsgrove B61 9DY

COMPETITION A selection case of Woodcote Manor Brewing Co. Beers

WIN

Simply answer the following question “What is the name of the beer containing honey and ginger?” then fill in this form, cut out and post to: Woodcote Manor Brewing Co Competition, 11 West Road Bromsgrove B60 2NG All entries in by the 15th May Answer .............................................................................................................................................................................................

Name ................................................................................................................................................................................................

Address ........................................................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................Telephone .......................................................... e-mail ................................................................................................................................................................................................

Please tick this box if you don’t want any promotional offers from Woodcote Manor Brewing Co.

The Cross at Finstall T

he end of the drought is in sight for residents in Finstall who have been without a village pub following the sale and closure of The Cross on Alcester Road.

The much-loved local has been sold by pub giant Enterprise Inns to Black Country Ales (BCA). BCA - which is a small micro-brewery in Lower Gornal near Dudley has 33 pubs locally including the landmark “Wellington” on Bennetts Hill, Birmingham. All of the pubs are unashamedly old-fashioned. Real ales from local brewers and guest beers from around the country feature heavily in BCA pubs and it is hoped that The Cross will have an extensive range of up to 12 real ales and ciders at any one time. Alongside the choice of beers will be fruit wines and continental bottled beers and a changing roster of real ciders from local cider houses.

An open fire is also an important part of the welcoming look that the pub will have. Graham Manwaring – Area Manager for the pub – said “ The Cross is a delightful pub and we are very pleased to have the chance to look after it

for local beer drinkers. The building is full of character and old-fashioned charm but had got a bit tired so we are going to town with the refurbishment and have applied to turn the house into a one room pub with a brand new bar, tidied up beer garden, smoking shelter and car park. There will also be the addition of a disabled toilet. In spite of all the changes however we are determined to keep its feel as a traditional village pub. There will be a small food offer but The Cross will be unmistakeably a pub first and foremost.”

Graham is currently interviewing for licensees to take over the running of the pub. “We have had considerable interest from local people and also from further afield and we hope to make an appointment soon.”

If all goes to plan the pub will re-open later in the Spring with hopes of pulling the first pint by end of April/ early May.

Completely Bromsgrove

17

The fabulous Bayley brothers “H IGHLY recommended”, “the best cup of coffee in Bromsgrove by far”, “fabulous”, “great atmosphere and great beer!” – just some of the social media praise being heaped on Bayley’s, the new tap room and coffee shop causing a stir in Bromsgrove.

And it’s easy to see why townsfolk have been quick to post positive feedback about this smart new venue, two years in the making, which is the brainchild of brothers Jack and George Bayley, former students of North Bromsgrove High School.

Having completed their university studies and looking set to go their separate directions, the Bayley brothers realised they loved their hometown of Bromsgrove and so they hatched their plan to hone their entrepreneurial talents in an exciting retail venture.

Bayley’s vibrant organic tap room and coffee shop on Worcester Road really is a family affair and, unlike so many identikit chains out there, this destination de rigueur is borne out of months upon months of blood, sweat and tears, such is the boys’ dedication to their enterprise.

snacks, it’s becoming a popular spot to meet and enjoy free time on the Worcester Road scene.

So whether you are taking a break from the shopping, relaxing after the school run, meeting friends for a lunch date or winding down after work with colleagues, Bayley’s has got it covered.

Dog owners are welcome to stop by too. In fact the shop has teamed up with another young entrepreneur who has started a business ‘Dogs Allowed’ www. dogsallowedcard.co.uk , to offer doggie treats which are available for your furry friends!

Jack and George toiled over every hour of the shop’s build progress, doing all the fittings and fixtures themselves from laying the real wood flooring to putting up shelves for the choice of craft beers so the passion and attention to detail is clear to see.

Jack and George welcome you all along to see what the buzz is all about – you won’t be disappointed and will see the passion this inspiring pair of brothers have put into their shop for the town to enjoy.

Having opened in December, its unique setting and decor has an edgy city feel that is appealing to all walks of life from young professionals to the more retiring customers.

• Bayley’s is located at 6 Worcester Road, Bromsgrove B61 7AE. Opening times are 10am to 10pm Monday to Thursday and from 10am to 11pm on Friday and Saturday. Check out their Facebook and Twitter pages for more info and latest news.

With a great choice of delicious coffees, specialist teas, six beers on tap, wines by Tanners, fresh pastries, paninis and light

18 Completely Bromsgrove

Well done too from All About Bromsgrove!

by James Iles

Motoring

You drive it. You define it – the All-New Hyundai Kona T

he All-New Kona builds on Hyundai Motor’s SUV credibility with a progressive approach to enhance the brand’s appeal, reach new customers and suppor t the goal to become leading Asian automotive brand in Europe by 2021 The All-New Kona offers a completely new compact SUV platform and a bold, sharp design with full-LED twin headlamps, two-tone roof and the choice between ten distinctive exterior colours Coloured stitching on the seats and steering wheel as well as highlights around the air vents transform the Kona’s interior into a second skin that protects the owner seamlessly The Kona is a true SUV with four-wheel drive, 7DCT and Hyundai’s latest powertrains: from modern turbocharged petrol engines to the newest generation of diesel technology The new – and Hyundai first - combiner head-up display with class-leading luminance projects relevant driving information directly into the driver’s line of sight The Display Audio, another Hyundai first, makes connectivity accessible, allowing passengers to use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the seven-inch screen The new high-end sound system by Krell, featuring eight speakers and an amplifier delivers concert hall sound quality to all passengers The Kona offers a wide range of active safety features including Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection

“The All-New Kona is not just another car among Hyundai Motor’s established SUV range - it is an important milestone of our journey to become Asian automotive brand number one in Europe by 2021,” says Thomas A. Schmid, Chief Operating Officer at Hyundai Motor Europe. “With its true SUV genes, a progressive design and premium features, Kona reflects the lifestyle of modern customers, enhancing the brand’s appeal and attracting new customers.”

To test drive this new and exciting new SUV pop-in to Bromsgrove’s showroom Neal’s Garage 2-12 Station St, Bromsgrove B60 2BS 01527 872071 www.hyundai.co.uk/dealer/neales-bromsgrove

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Tips for Spring & Summer Travel

By Jane Brook House of Colour 1. Sunglasses can be a great way to enhance your summer look which makes it even more important that they really suit your face shape, especially now there are so many options in the shops. The frame shape of sunglasses should echo facial contours it is all about complimenting the natural shape of your face, balancing your brow and jawline and matching your clothing personality. Key trends this season include aviators (always a classic), cats’ eyes and sci-fi.

2. Sarongs are the ultimate multi-use accessory with so many applications as a skirt, a shawl, or as well as a quick cover up around the poolside. Add a splash of colour to your swimwear with a sarong and don’t be afraid to use bold colours within your palette. Use patterns to add interest to your look, and try different lengths.

3. Dresses – Having the right staple summer dresses in your suitcase equals versatility because you can dress them up or down with the right jewellery, make up, shoes and bag. Diversify your look by changing heels for casual pumps or adding a smart jacket or a playful cardigan.

4. Shorts can easily be unflattering, so make sure they are the right length for you and avoid a cuff if you don’t want to add width. Those of us lucky enough to have long legs don’t need to necessarily wear thigh-skimming shorts! Classic tailored shorts can even be worn to the office, dependant on the dress code, and on the right person can look cutting edge.

7. Jewellery – For the dramatics or romantics amongst us, the bolder the better statement jewellery this season ladies! Think asymmetrical designs for the more dramatic amongst us, embellished ear cuffs or large earrings.

Cool skin tones suit light or white metals such as white gold, platinum and silver.

People with warm skin tones look good in yellow and rose gold or copper jewellery, as well as warm costume jewellery.

8. Swimsuits – Take time to find the right shaped swimwear for you and if you like how it looks buy it in two different colours! Highlight your best features with a bright colour or pattern and leave areas you don’t like so much with a solid colour.

Use ruching to flatter your tummy and ruffles or ties to help balance your silhouette.

9. Hats used to be something we had to wear just to keep the sun off our faces, but hats have never been more on trend as a key summer accessory. This coming season sees embellishments, tribal prints and bucket hats in pastel shades on the catwalks. Remember the positioning of your hat is important – so practice a few positions in the mirror before you make your debut to the beach.

5. Bags this season range from bucket bags, holdalls to circles and squares. Enjoy a burst of one of your wow colours to spice up an otherwise neutral outfit. Key trends this season include tan leather, pretty pastels and retro logos. When travelling it helps to have one big bag to carry all your important items on the plane, an across the body or trendy backpack for full excursion days, and something gorgeous for the evenings!

Remember a bag is a great way to express your style, so invest in one which is really you.

20 Completely Bromsgrove

6. Beach bags – with a huge variety of beach bags on the market - go bold for an exciting look, go funky if fun is key to your style, or try classic straw (with a bit of glitzy embellishment if you need glamour in your life at all times). I always prefer a bag with an all-important zipper pocket to keep contents from getting lost.

10. Luggage – Start as you mean to go on and choose luggage that reflects your personality whether that is designer, or bold colours or strapped with a funky patterned label. Stylishly personalise to make sure you don’t miss your bag on the carousel and so no one picks it up by mistake!

www.houseofcolour.co.uk

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New Artist Gallery and Antiques Studio see website for details

Completely Bromsgrove

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22  Completely Bromsgrove

Mindfulness Association Mindfulness Associations Mindfulness Level One: Being Present Course taught over four weekends with MA tutor Rosina Morrison 28-29 April 2018, 7-8 July 2018, 13-14 October 2018 and 19-20 January 2019 To book the first weekend of this course please contact info@mindfulnessassociation.net, after attending the first weekend you can book the further three weekends and pay in monthly installments. The cost is £150.00 per weekend including manuals.

The course runs from 10am till 5pm on Saturday and Sunday at Tardebigge Community Hall, Bromsgrove, Tardebigge, Birmingham, B60 3AH. The course is ideal for beginners, for those who have previous experience of Mindfulness and who want to develop their practice and for those who wish to go on to train to teach Mindfulness. This course takes place over four weekends spread out over a nine month period and aims to enable participants to establish an effective and regular daily Mindfulness practice so as to help our minds to settle and stabilise.

Participants will be taught progressive skills in Mindfulness through presentations, guided practices and smaller group sessions. A strong emphasis is placed on experiential learning and for this reason there are home assignments between weekends that include regular Mindfulness practice, daily life exercises and journal writing.

For more information, please visit: www.mindfulnessassociation.net/msc BG Ironing A5 Flyer stu_Layout 2 03/01/2018 07:37 Page 1

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Bromsgrove Rugby FC B

romsgrove RFC has been an established part of the Town sporting scene for almost 150 years.

Founded in 1872 the club has been playing rugby at its current 14 acre site in Finstall Park for over 60 years.

As well as fielding up to 5 senior sides on Saturdays, including a “veterans team”, the club has a thriving Junior Section providing coaching and Sunday matches for over 350 children from ages 6 to 16. A “colts side” then encourages the transition from junior to senior rugby.

The standard of rugby played at Finstall Park is high. This season the club’s First XV are playing in the second ranked league of the 18 leagues making up the Midlands Division and are currently placed third in that league.

Apart from activities on the field the excellent clubhouse facilities are available year round to a host of local community groups for meetings and functions as well as for private birthday parties, wedding receptions, quiz nights and business lunches. In June of each year the club stages its popular annual Dress Dinner and Dance as well as playing host to the CAMRA real-ale festival, a two day event which will already be familiar to many readers.

Notwithstanding the high level of rugby played at Finstall Park, Bromsgrove RFC prides itself on maintaining a very traditional “rugby club” atmosphere and visitors are always welcome to come and enjoy a drink at the bar on cold winter Saturdays in front of a blazing open fire.

On major rugby international match days large screen TV’s are switched on both in the bar and function room where members and guests can enjoy a hearty lunch before cheering on their respective teams.

Bromsgrove RFC always welcomes new members, either playing or social, and enquiries should initially be directed to Jo Pitt, the club’s General Manager, by phone on 01527 874690. Alternatively, the club website can be accessed at www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bromsgroverfc where the details of primary contacts are available.

24 Completely Bromsgrove

BROMSGROVE RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB Why not consider holding your business meetings, lunches, wedding reception or birthday party at Finstall Park? We offer in-house or third-party catering, fully staffed bar facilities, space for your band or DJ and dance area.

Our Function Room is also an ideal venue for special-interest group meetings and local community activities.

Please contact Jo Pitt on 01527 874690 with details of your requirements and information on our hire charges and availability or visit our club web site at www.pitchero.com/clubs/bromsgroverfc for further contact details.

Corporate Golf Membership Play More Golf | Entertain Clients | Reward your Staff

Bromsgrove Golf Centre is a family owned and operated golf complex and is renowned for providing superb facilities for players of all abilities in a friendly welcoming environment. At Bromsgrove Golf Centre our Corporate Membership is intended to not only provide a place to entertain clients but also as a place to reward staff, build your team or simply enjoy a few rounds with your business colleagues.

Play More Golf

Entertain Clients

Get Your Staff Involved

Reward your Staff

Bromsgrove Golf can provide low cost beginner courses or bespoke taster events where your staff will learn new skills and effective ways of working together in a fun environment. Call our Head PGA Golf Professional Rob Laing on 07885 777964 or email: rob@bromsgrovegolfacademy.co.uk to get your team active

For Further Information Contact Mark Laing 01527 575886 / 07968 827397Corporate packages

Corp 1 offers 25 fourballs for £400.00 + Vat Corp 2 Offers 50 fourballs for £750.00 + Vat Corp 3 Offers 100 fourballs for £1350 + Vat

Or email corporategolf@bromsgrovegolfcentre.com

For Further Information Contact Mark Laing 01527 575886 / 07968 827397 Or email: corporategolf@bromsgrovegolfcentre.com Completely Bromsgrove

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Avoncroft Cricket Club Season Preview

A

lthough the weather has not yet caught up, thoughts at Avoncroft Cricket Club are moving to the forthcoming season with work underway at their Stoke Heath ground to get ready for the first game on 14th April.

Avoncroft’s Saturday 1st XI, who play in the Worcestershire County League Division 3, have a new captain this year, with opening bowler Jon Hunter picking up the reins in his third year at the club. Having finished mid-table for last few seasons, Jon is confident that if he can put a regular XI onto the pitch every week, the quality of the players at his disposal will give Croft the opportunity to put up a good challenge in the league. Having lost in two of the last three T20 league cup finals, the 1st XI will also be looking to go one better in that competition this year.

The 2nd XI also have a new captain this year, with all-rounder Mark Wood stepping down from the firsts to bring his experience to moulding his blend of youth and veteran players into a competitive outfit. This challenge is one that has been mastered over the last few years by Christopher Pitt, who is continuing in his role as Sunday captain in 2018.

Avoncroft also run a thriving junior section and will be looking to build upon a successful 2017. Participation grew at all ages and, on the pitch, the junior sides acquitted themselves very well culminating in the Under 8s lifting the Worcestershire County Cup following an unbeaten run on finals day.

Avoncroft prides itself as a family-orientated village cricket club with the right balance of competitive cricket in an enjoyable atmosphere for young and old. The club are always on the look-out for new adult players and, if you are interested in getting involved, please visit the website at www.avoncroftcc.co.uk to find more information.

26  Completely Bromsgrove

Likewise, if you are looking for a club for your son or daughter to develop their skills and a passion for the game from a young age, the club are still taking on new members at all ages from 5-13 (Reception to Year 8) with the exception of the Under 12 section (Year 7) which is currently oversubscribed. Training takes place on Friday evenings from 6pm onwards (starting on 20th April, weather permitting) and again more details can be found on the website.

Discover the charm of our waterways T

he Worcester & Birmingham Canal is to many still a bit of a secret, but it’s one well worth discovering”, says Caroline Kendall, from the Canal & River Trust.

The Trust is the charity that cares for the 200-year old waterway that quietly weaves through Worcestershire, providing a green corridor connecting the two cities.

The Trust’s teams have just finished a winter busily repairing waterway walls and historic lock gates, ahead of the spring and summer, when thousands of people will use the waterway.

Caroline explains: “The canal is a really beautiful spot to visit.

It’s full of wildlife and is a calm, relaxing space whether you are boating, fishing, cycling or just trying to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But being two centuries old means it needs plenty of care and attention. Winter is the time our teams carry out the heavy duty repair work ready for the thousands of visitors in the warmer months.”

In addition to the major engineering projects, the Trust has also just completed a recruitment drive that will see an army of local people working as volunteer lock keepers.

And if anywhere was in need of such support it is here. The Worcester & Birmingham Canal is home to the Tardebigge Flight, a series of 30 locks, stretching over a two-and-a-quarter miles from Stoke Prior to Tardebigge, that is the longest lock flight anywhere in the country, making it a must-see spot for the ever increasing number of boaters.

More than 25 volunteers will grab their windlasses (the device used to open and close the lock gates) from April to help boaters enjoy the Flight. Lock keepers have been a fixture on Britain’s canals for hundreds of years and are one of the oldest traditions of the waterways. As ‘the face of the waterway’, modern-day volunteer lock keepers play an integral part in the visitor experience.

Caroline continues: “The canals in the region are probably more popular than any time in living memory. As a charity we carry out the specialist engineering, heritage and ecological work, but to make sure the canals continue to thrive, we are getting more and more help from local volunteers.

Lock keeping is a great example of this. There are other opportunities too, so if you find yourself down by the water and spot one of the team, do stop and have a chat and they will tell you all about it.”

“Whether you know the canal already, or perhaps have visited it at some point in the past, I’d encourage anyone to pay it a visit this year and discover what it has to offer.”

For more information about the Worcester & Birmingham Canal and the Canal & River Trust, including the activities and volunteering opportunities by the water, please visit canalrivertrust.org.uk Completely Bromsgrove

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Hagley Hall Reveals its Secrets

W

ith the arrival of spring people’s thoughts turn to getting out into the countryside and, that most British of pastimes, visiting a country house. For many Bromsgrovians, Hagley Hall is a favourite destination.

Set in more than 350 acres of parkland, Hagley Hall is one of the finest Palladian houses in the country and has been home to the Lyttelton family for more than three hundred years. The estate as we know it today dates from the mid 18th century and is largely the creation of George, 1st Lord Lyttelton, who was secretary to Frederick, Prince of Wales and briefly Chancellor of the Exchequer. Before the death of his father in 1751, he began to landscape the grounds in the new ‘Picturesque’ style and built the current house between 1754 and 1760.

This Palladian mansion replaced an earlier house that was described as “convenient and built mostly of wood”. It has fine examples of Rococo plasterwork by Francesco Vassali and a unique collection of 18th century Chippendale furniture. The art collection comprises family portraits and other works by Van Dyck, Joshua Reynolds, Cornelius Johnson and Peter Lely. Tragedy struck in 1925 when much of the building was destroyed by fire. The 9th Viscount Cobham painstakingly restored the house, with the exception of the servants’ quarters on the upper floor. Subsequent generations have continued restoration works in both the main house and the park.

All this and more will be discussed by the Hall’s current custodian, Christopher Lyttelton, 12th Viscount Cobham, when he gives the Bromsgrove Society Annual Lecture on Tuesday, 10th April. Now in its 32nd year, the Bromsgrove Society Lecture invites prominent speakers to explore aspects of the town’s history and that of Worcestershire more generally. The event will be held in the newly refurbished Routh Hall at Bromsgrove School, where Lord Cobham will talk about his 18th century ancestral home and the Lyttelton family.

“My family’s history and that of Bromsgrove have been linked since the earliest records of the Lytteltons that we can find”, said Lord Cobham. “I am delighted to have the opportunity to talk about our ‘Past Present and Future’ at the Bromsgrove Society Lecture.”

Tickets for the event are priced £6 to include a complimentary drink after the talk, and are available from the Foto Factory on Bromsgrove High Street or by emailing via the website www.bsoc.co.uk

28 Completely Bromsgrove

Lord Cobham

Beating blood cancer since 1960

Bromsgrove Fun Run 30th Aniversary

S

ince her son Marc died of leukaemia in 1989 Nicole Harris has triumphantly organised a fun run every year since which has seen venue changes from Barnsley Hall to Parkside then Bromsgrove Rugby Club.

The next fun run will take place on Sunday May 13th and will be the 30th race she has organised. Nicole masterminds both 10k and 5k runs. All money raised goes directly to the research into 137 blood cancers and better treatments. You can register online or contact Nicole on 01527 878493 or nicnoelharris@ aol.com There will be a limit of 500 runners, should anyone wish to help on the day please kindly email Nicole.

On Friday 23rd February 2018 Bloodwise Bromsgrove held a celebration event to thank everyone who has been involved in helping them to reach their Million Pound target in December.

Nicole Harris has been involved with the Bloodwise Bromsgrove Fundraising Branch for 30 years, after her son was diagnosed with, and sadly passed away from, leukaemia.

In her role as deputy chair in 1988, and then chair since 1989, Nicole has tirelessly dedicated her time to raising money and awareness of blood cancer research charity, Bloodwise in her local area, surpassing the £1million-mark late in 2017.

Every year, Nicole and her Branch organise a full program of events which are well loved and attended by the local people of Bromsgrove and surrounding area, with people returning year on year to take part. These include the popular Bromsgrove 5k and 10k fun runs each May (around 500 people participate), a Forget Me Not Walk including distances of 5 miles, 8 miles and 12 miles each June, a carol concert each December, regular quiz

nights with fish and chip suppers, numerous bucket collections at supermarkets, football grounds and local high streets and hosts stalls at local markets, festivals and triathlons.

The very first Bromsgrove fun run was held just six weeks after Marc passed away - a testament to Nicole’s determination and dedication to raising money in her son’s memory. She has a small, dedicated team of helpers who support her with all these events, and it is Nicole’s driving force and leadership which really makes this all so successful.

All of us here at Bloodwise are immensely grateful to, and proud of, Nicole for her hard work, passion and dedication to helping us to fund blood cancer research. Her incredible fundraising has helped us to deliver some remarkable projects over the years, So many advances have been made and we are delighted to say that more and more people are living longer and living well with their blood cancer than ever before. When Bloodwise started back in 1960, barely 1 in 10 children survived the most common form of childhood leukaemia, now it’s 8 in 10 and it is thanks to our supporters like Nicole and all of the Bromsgrove Branch, who have made that happen.

Nicole’s branch of Bloodwise started in 1988 and is impressively celebrating its 30th anniversary as well as more than a million pounds which has been raised since 1988

www.bloodwise.org.uk/fundraising/events-challenges/bromsgrove-fun-run Completely Bromsgrove

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Attention All Traders

If you are looking to target a local audience for your buisness then call Michele on 07854171329 or e-mail michelebromsgrove@outlook. com to discuss how Completely Bromsgrove can help!

VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET

April 2nd Evesham Arts Centre

Box Office 01386 446944

April 15th Artrix Bromsgrove Box Office 01527 577330

Founded in 1980 by the vastly experienced Austrian dancer and artistic director, Peter Mallek, Vienna Festival Ballet uses talented international dancers, giving a vitality, energy and freshness to every performance.

‘An excellent company of talented young dancers.

Their energy and enthusiasm is breathtaking’.

30 Completely Bromsgrove

See more info at viennafestivalballet.com

Toyah Accoustic, Up Close & Personal

H

ousehold name, pop icon, TV presenter, and stage/screen actress (Calamity Jane, Cabaret, Peter Pan, Jubilee, Quadophenia) Toyah comes to Artrix with her Acoustic, Up Close & Personal show.

This is a unique chance to experience Toyah in an intimate setting where music and stories take centre stage. This lively, entertaining and revealing show comes in the form of Toyah performing an unplugged set of her well-loved hits and classic songs, alongside recalling stories from her colourful, thirty-five year career. From filming pop videos on horseback at 5am in the morning to acting alongside Katharine Hepburn and Laurence Olivier this is a show which lifts the lid on working in the entertainment business.

A talented duo of guitarists, Chris Wong and Colin Hinds, accompany Toyah on meticulous and melodic acoustic versions of the hits It’s A Mystery, Thunder In The Mountains, I Want To Be Free and Good Morning Universe through to Sensational, a track used recently on a national TV advertising campaign starring Patsy Kensit.

2015 saw Toyah act in the acclaimed cult British feature film Ahhhhhhhh! directed by Steve Oram whilst 2016 will also see the release of more films in which Toyah has roles; Extremis, Lies We Tell and Kaleidoscope Man alongside Hound. As ever, Toyah’s annual concert diary is also packed with summer festivals, acoustic shows and electric gigs with her full band. Her transatlantic rock band The Humans featuring Bill Rieflin (King Crimson, REM) & Chris Wong recently released their third album Strange Tales.

www.artrix.co.uk

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Beethoven’s Choral Symphony

in Worcester Cathedral performed by

Bromsgrove

32  Completely Bromsgrove

Orchestra of St John Bromsgrove to perform Beethoven’s Choral Symphony in Worcester Cathedral

T

he Orchestra of St John, Bromsgrove will perform Beethoven’s magnificent Ninth Symphony “The Choral” in Worcester Cathedral on Saturday 5th May 2018 in a concert that celebrates the conclusion of the orchestra performing all nine of Beethoven’s symphonies.

This enterprising Orchestra, under the leadership and direction of Richard Jenkinson, normally performs in the magnificent St John’s Church in Bromsgrove, but to mark this special achievement, they will also give this celebratory concert in the ‘home’ of the diocese, Worcester Cathedral, a building of magnitude with wonderful acoustics.

The Orchestra will be joined by the Chorus of the Orchestra of St John and members of Worcester Festival Choral Society, and the programme will also include Elgar’s Violin Concerto played by orchestra leader, Charlotte Moseley.

At 25 Charlotte Moseley is already a professional musician with a highly acclaimed career and reputation as a violinist. Following her studies at Chethams Music School and the Royal Northern College of Music, she went on to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London with Jack Liebeck where in 2017, she graduated with distinction in her Master of Arts degree, and received the coveted Royal Academy Diploma.

Richard Jenkinson, the Orchestra’s conductor said “I’m very much looking forward to conducting the Orchestra for this concert. There can be no better place to spread Beethoven’s anthem of joy for mankind than the sublime setting of Worcester Cathedral. This concert also celebrates Worcestershire’s favourite son, Edward Elgar, in the Cathedral that meant so much to him. I am certain that our concert will be a real treat for the audience.”

The soloists for the Choral Symphony include Claire Prewer (Soprano), William Theunissen (Tenor), Jane Stevenson (Alto) and David Coulson (Bass). All four soloists are local and celebrated artists who have performed on the national and international stage.

This concert is showcasing the vast depth of musical talent within the local community in Worcestershire.

Orchestra Manager Alastair Moseley said “OSJ is unusual in that we are an established orchestra that each year invites singers to form a choir to perform with us, rather than the other way around! We are delighted that members of the Worcester Festival Choral Society are joining us for The Choral Symphony in the Cathedral. I expect a choir of around 100 voices, which coupled with our 60 strong orchestra will really raise the roof and make for an unforgettable experience for the audience, and the musicians!”

The Orchestra has not turned its back on its home venue for this landmark event and will be performing the same programme the week before in St John’s Church, Bromsgrove, on Saturday 28th April 2018. The Worcester Cathedral concert takes place on Saturday 5th May 2018. Tickets for St John’s Church are priced at £12 in advance or £14 on the door and at Worcester Cathedral range in price from £10 to £25 with accompanied children attending either event for free. More information and links to buy tickets visit www.osjbromsgrove.org The Orchestra of St John, Bromsgrove was established in 2011 to extend the rich tradition of music making in the Church to include the classical orchestral repertoire, under the leadership and direction of Richard Jenkinson. Since 2011 the largely volunteer group have given over 30 concerts including performances of eight of Beethoven’s nine Symphonies. 2018 will see the Orchestra complete the challenge to play all the Symphonies with two performances of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony ‘The Choral’.

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Richard Jenkinson

is a celebrated cellist who lives in Worcester. He was until recently Principal Cello with the CBSO and is the cellist in the renowned Dante Quartet with whom he performs in concerts across the UK and around the world. He has many CDs to his name both as soloist and with the Quartet and has a reputation for pioneering the works of lesser known composers that deserve to be heard!

Richard is the conductor of the British Police Symphony Orchestra who are celebrating their 30th Year this year which will be marked by a concert in the Royal Albert Hall in London in 2019. He is also in the final stages of completing a PhD at the University of Birmingham.

Charlotte Moseley

, from Bromsgrove, has a special place in the hearts of the St John’s community. Aged five, she became a member of the Church, joining the Choir at the age of eight, and singing with them at some of the Country’s finest Cathedrals including St Paul’s in London, Lincoln Cathedral and Worcester Cathedral. As her skills as a violinist have developed over the years she has given many violin recitals in the Church, raising thousands of pounds for Church projects in the process. When the Orchestra of St John was formed she became the Orchestra’s leader and has also performed many concertos with them including Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and concertos by Bach, Sibelius, Tchaikovsky, Mendelssohn and Mozart.

Claire Prewer, from Worcester, studied

at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama where she was awarded a Scholarship at the age of seventeen to study on the A.G.S.M. Performers Course and subsequently on the Opera Course. Claire enjoys performing a wide range of operatic, song and oratorio repertoire and regularly performs around the country. Recent engagements have included venues such as Exeter Cathedral, Newbury Festival, Petworth Festival, Fishguard International Music festival, Worcester Cathedral, C.B.S.O. Centre, Symphony Hall and the Royal Albert Hall.

Alongside her singing career, Claire is increasingly becoming involved in other aspects of music and was commissioned to make arrangements for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s tour of China and Big Band arrangements for Cunard and P&O cruise lines. Claire has performed the soprano solo in a chamber version of the last movement of Mahler’s 4th symphony live on Radio 3’s ‘In Tune’ with the British Police Symphony Orchestra. She is also a committed singing teacher, having taught as a vocal coach at Birmingham School of Acting as well as teaching privately in all genres of music. Her students have gained Choral Scholarships to Oxford, Cambridge and Durham Universities and all the major conservatoires and drama writing a short opera which will be performed with the colleges. Claire also enjoys composing and is currently Orchestra of St. John, Bromsgrove next year.

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a pOEM FOR sPRING

BY Children’s Author

Julie Davey

I’m ready for spring Who’s with me on this?

The warmth of the sun And it’s freckly kiss Show me the buds On the bushes and trees The promise of summer That drifts on the breeze The Daffs and the crocuses Peep out here and there Is it safe to come out?

Is there frost in the air?

I’m done with you winter!

I’m ready for heat White linen trousers Flip flops on my feet The clocks soon go forward The days will grow long And the bird’s will belt out Their spring-along song Put your shovels away There’s no more snowy fun I think we’re all ready For long days of sun

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What’s On

In & Around Bromsgrove

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt At Clent Hills Friday 30th & 31st March Follow either the Little Chicks (Under 5s) Trail or the more challenging Explorer Trail solving clues. Find your way to the Easter Bunny in their woodland den to collect your Cadbury chocolate prize.

Booking essential www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events/ b01b5b70-1aed-4000-a8e9-e6c6c62d2789/pages/ details Hagley Hall Reveals its Secrets Tuesday 10th April at 7.30pm Lord Cobham will give the 32nd Bromsgrove Lecture, hosted by the Bromsgrove Society.

The event will be held in the newly refurbished Routh Hall at Bromsgrove School, where Lord Cobham will talk about Hagley Hall, his eighteenth century ancestral home and the Lyttelton family.

Tickets for the event are just £6 to include a complimentary drink after the talk, and are available to buy from the Foto Factory on Bromsgrove High Street or www.bsoc.co.uk/component/contact/ contact/17-committee/35.html St John’s Wine Rooms 1st Birthday celebrations on the 11th April Full night of entertainment, eating and drinking Booking essential for tickets call 01527 877727 or pop-in 12 St John St, Bromsgrove B61 8QY Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra Concert Friday 6th April 8.00pm till 10.45pm £6.00 on the door. Real ale behind the bar and a raffle add to the fun! More details from Geoff 07970 662692 Lickey End Social Club 17 Alvechurch Road Bromsgrove West Midlands B60 1JT Monthly Tea Dance afternoons These take place at the Parkside suite on the last Tuesday of the month, 2-4pm. £4 and includes tea, coffee and biscuits for more details call Jan Woolley Tel 01527 881478 email - roombookings@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk Market Street Bromsgrove Worcestershire B61 8DA

36 Completely Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove Art Society Meet 3rd Wednesday in the month at 7.30pm Burcot Village Hall, Alcester Rd, Bromsgrove. B60 1BH www.artistsandillustrators.co.uk/societies/bromsgrove-artsociety BASOC, the Bromsgrove Astronomical Society BASOC caters for Astronomers of all ages and experience in the local area.

Non-members welcome Meetings held at Bromsgrove RFC, Finstall, B60 3DH. www.broms-astro.org.uk Bromsgrove Belles WI Ladies are welcome to come and join us we meet on the second Monday of the month, 7.30pm at The Life After Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 8RA Tel 01905 641658 www.bromsgrovebelles.org.uk/ Bromsgrove Flower Club Meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 2.15 p m, except January (no meeting) and December (2nd Thursday in the month starting at 2.00 pm) at: All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 1AF www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk Bromsgrove Motorcycle Club Club nights are held all through the year on alternate Mondays at The Park Gate Inn, 178 Kidderminster Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B61 9AJ. In addition there are weekly Friday evening gatherings. In the summer months these are combined with a ride out and in the winter at a selection of local hostelries. Meetings start at 8pm. www.bromsgrovemotorcycleclub.co.uk

What’s On

In & Around Bromsgrove

Bromsgrove & District Amateur Radio Club Meet at Avoncroft Arts Centre Redditch Road, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove.

Friday evenings at 8pm. www.radioclubs.net/bdarc/about.php Bromsgrove Society of Model Engineers We hold club meetings on the last Sunday of the month, except for December, when we have no meeting. Those from May to August are on the last Wednesday of the month, usually at the track, but the others are held in the clubhouse. We also meet at the track on Sunday mornings, and there is a regular “Tuesday Gang” which provides rides for schoolchildren visiting the museum on that day. www.bromsgrovesme.co.uk/1710.html Bromsgrove and District Table Tennis Clubs B&RDTTA is a progressive and forward thinking organisation , its recently added third division is evidence of this Visit website for teams and all necessary information. www.tabletennis365.com/BromsgroveAndRedditch/Clubs Clubs and Societies in Fairfield www.fairfieldvillage.co.uk/clubs---organisations.html Hanbury Hall and Gardens - Trust10 Trust10 is a free monthly 10k running event at Hanbury Hall. Held on the fourth Sunday of every month perfect for beginners, also suitable for those who run regularly and are looking for a challenge or an opportunity to train. Booking Not Needed. Under 16’s must be accompanied. Sorry, no under 14’s.

Assistance Dogs only are welcome.

A National Trust Event - Gates open 08:30. Start 09:00. End 11:00. Free event but check website for admission charges registration is at 8.30am in the Stableyard. The run starts at 9am. Check website for latest information www.wherecanwego.com/item/ e1215027/hanbury-hall-and-gardens-trust10

Hanbury Hall and Gardens, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 7EA

LIVE MUSIC

Hop Pole – check their website for full listings www.hop-pole.com/

THEATRE

Atrix – check their website for full listings www.artrix.co.uk/whats-on/ Let us know if you want your club or event adding to our listings e-mail newsbromsgrove@outlook.com

Earn Money & Get Fit! Distributors Required to deliver Completely

Bromsgrove within Bromsgrove & surrounding Villages - for further details call Michele on 07854171329 Completely Bromsgrove

37

Competition

WIN tickets to RHS Malvern Spring Festival 10 May 2018 - 13 May 2018

R

HS Malvern Spring Festival 2018 is set to take visitors on a journey of discovery.

Following on from this year’s hugely successful celebration of Malvern’s heritage as a Victorian spa resort, inspiration for next year’s show is being drawn from The Great Exhibition of 1851.

Hosted at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, from May 10-13, and set against the backdrop of the picturesque Malvern Hills, the theme for 2018 will bring the influences of The Great Exhibition into 21st century living.

Head of Show, Diana Walton, said: “We’re channelling the spirit of the Great Exhibition with plenty of innovation, education and a spectacular day out. There’ll be so much for visitors to explore.

We’re also linking into the ambition of the Great Exhibition and hoping that just as its influence lived on long after the event, our visitors will have such a memorable day it will leave a lasting impression for many years to come.”

The town of Malvern was put into the global spotlight in 1851 when its prized waters formed the Great Exhibition centrepiece.

At the opening ceremony, led by Queen Victoria, its waters cascaded through a magnificent 26ft crystal Schweppes fountain.

Diana added: “We’ll certainly have our own striking features to admire. We’ve introduced lots of fresh aspects to surprise and delight such as Giant Terrariums and The Great Pavilion of Art & Flowers, as well as our brand new garden feature, Green Living Spaces. We believe that we showcase the very best in gardening, food and lifestyle, from our inspiring show gardens and awardwinning nurseries to fabulous food from inspirational chefs and lots of family fun, we know our 2018 festival is going to be magnificent.” www.rhsmalvern.co.uk

COMPETITION 2 tickets to RHS Malvern Spring Festival 2018

WIN

Simply answer the following question “Who opened the ceremony in 1851?” then fill in this form, cut out and post to: RHS Malvern Spring Festival 2018 Competition, 11 West Road Bromsgrove B60 2NG All entries in by the 4th May Answer .............................................................................................................................................................................................

Name ................................................................................................................................................................................................

Address ........................................................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................Telephone .......................................................... e-mail ................................................................................................................................................................................................

Please tick this box if you don’t want any promotional offers from RHS Malvern Spring Festival

T WO DA Y MUSIC & F A MI LY FUN FESTIVAL SATURDAY 19TH & SU N D A Y 2 0 T H M A Y

MUSIC FRO M 1 3: 00 - 2 2 : 00 A T R E D D I T C H F OOT B A L L C L U B HE A D L IN E A C T S I NCLUD I NG

ADE L E T RI B U T E O N S A T UR D A Y N I GH T

A B B A TR I B U TE O N S U N DA Y N I G H T

OPEN IN G PER FOR MA N C E ON SA TURDAY BY THE BRASS BAND OF WEST MER C IA POLIC E T O C ELEBRATE THE ROY AL WEDDING S U N D A Y M O RN IN G - C HA R IT Y FOOT B A LL MA TCH INVOL VING THE ONCE UPON A SMIL E C E LE B RIT Y T EA M IN C LUDIN G ST A R S FR OM TV AND SHOWS SUCH AS EMMERDAL E, WA T ER LOO R OA D A ND MANY MORE. N U M E ROUS QUA LIT Y LOC A L B A N DS, DANCE GROUPS AND ARTISAN STAL L S. PLUS FA YR E R IDES A N D C HILD REN’S ENTERTAINMENT. RE A L A LE , PIMMS A N D PR OSEC C O B A R S. FOOD VIL L AGE INCL UDING PIG ROAST. JUN IOR FOOT B A LL TOURNAMENT B R IN G YOUR OWN B LA N K ETS OR PICNIC CHAIRS

E N T R Y B Y P ROGRAMME

| SAT U RDAY £5 | SU N DAY £ 6 | A L L W E E K E N D £ 1 0 | | UN D E R 16S FRE E I F ACCO MP AN IE D B Y A R E S P O N S I B L E A D U L T | (TICKETS AVAILABLE IN ADVANCE ON EVENTBRITE) WE BS IT E : WWW.RED D F ES T. C O M E NQUIRIE S T O; INFO@ R ED D F ES T. C O M

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