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Issue 6

Completely

January/ February 2026

Droitwich Spa

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2 Completely Droitwich Spa

New year, new look for Heritage Centre A

s 2026 begins, Droitwich Spa is getting ready to unveil a refreshed piece of its past. The Heritage Centre is putting the finishing touches to its newly redesigned home in St Richard’s House, with doors expected to open in early Februar y.

For the past few months, the centre has been operating in a reduced space within the Council Chamber, continuing to offer visitor information and a gift shop while renovations were underway. It will close temporarily on January 16th to allow staff to move everything back into the updated venue.

One of the biggest changes visitors will notice is the brand-new entrance. After conducting a visitor sur vey in 2024, staff heard a clear message - the former doorway was dark, tucked away, and uninviting. In response, the centre expanded into the existing undercroft, creating a brighter, more accessible, and more visible entrance that reflects the warmth of the town’s heritage.

Inside, the much-loved salt museum has undergone a complete transformation. Now reimagined as The Salt Stor y, the exhibition is much more interactive and engaging, shining a spotlight on the remarkable histor y of Droitwich salt through the centuries.

Station. This new immersive space will celebrate Droitwich’s distinguished place on the long-wave radio dial and highlight the pivotal role the station played in early radio transmission.

While the centre may look different, some things haven’t changed. Visitors can still expect the same friendly greeting from the centre’s dedicated team of volunteers. The gift shop continues to offer locally made products, and the staff will remain a go-to source for tourist information and local guides.

After more than two years of work, the team is excited to welcome ever yone into the revitalised centre and entr y is still completely free. A new year, a new chapter, and a new look for one of Droitwich’s most cherished attractions.

The makeover doesn’t stop there. The former Droitwich Calling room has been opened up to better showcase the historic transmitting equipment from the Wychbold Transmitting

Completely Droitwich Spa

3

Welcome to the joint January/February issue of Completely Droitwich Spa!

F

irstly, I would like to wish all our readers and their families and friends a happy and healthy 2026.

We’re kicking off this edition with news that the town’s Heritage Centre is putting the finishing touches to its newly redesigned home in St Richard’s House. Doors are expected to open in early Februar y. Turn to page 3 for all the details.

Turn to page 23 to read about how this impor tant project got up and running, and where they are today. Well done to ever yone involved and keep up the tremendous work.

Page 10 showcases a budding actress from Droitwich Spa, who has trod the red carpet with the stars and scooped a podium place at a national awards ceremony. Congratulations Poppy and best of luck for the future.

Droitwich Histor y and Archaeology Society have a fascinating programme of events and talks planned for 2026. Turn to page 24 for more details and don’t forget to pop those allimpor tant dates into the diar y.

Some readers may already be aware of Wychavon’s vision to develop a new town alongside Worcestershire Parkway railway station. For more details of what lies ahead, turn to page 14.

The team at Completely Droitwich Spa hope you enjoy this first issue for 2026 and remember folks, keep it local or lose it!

Very best wishes Michele Ford

Celebrating their tenth anniversar y at the end of 2025 were Droitwich Community Pantr y.

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16

Contents 3 Heritage Centre 6 MPs Message 8 Parkinson Wright 10 Poppy Mae Barrett 12 Wychavon Town

Completely

13 Feckenham Village Hall 14 OOH AAH The Spa! 15 Two Unitary Plans 16 Lumia Restaurant 18 Gardening 20 Worcs Wildlife Trust 22 Health

Droitwich Spa Tel: 07948 086870 Email: completelydroitwich@gmail.com

4 Completely Droitwich Spa

26 27 23 Donor found for Leo 24 Community Food Pantry 25 History Society 326 Creative Arts 27 FeckenOdeon 28 Drive Time 30 Railway Footfall

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

Sales: Michele Ford Tel: 07948 086870 Design: Matt Walton Design The contents of Completely Droitwich Spa 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 Droitwich Spa magazine.

Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Completely Droitwich Spa 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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5

A message from our

MP Nigel Huddleston A

s we welcome the star t of 2026, I have been reflecting on what has been a memorable year for Droitwich. One of the standout moments was the inaugural Rik Mayall Comedy Festival, a week-long celebration held in honour of one of Droitwich’s most iconic former residents. With more than 200 events and performances from comedians such as Greg Davies, Shaparak Khorsandi and Paul Foot, the festival brought laughter, energy and visitors from far and wide. It was wonderful to see Droitwich receive national attention, and I was delighted to experience the festival myself.

The festival was just one of several memorable events that showcased the best of our town in 2025. The Food and Drink Festival, SaltFest, and St Richard’s Canal Festival all once again demonstrated the strength of our community spirit, attracting residents and visitors alike and giving a welcome boost to local businesses. My thanks go to the organisers and volunteers who work so hard each year to make these celebrations so successful.

Last year also saw the launch of my first Constituency Pub of the Year competition, which invited residents across Droitwich, Evesham and our surrounding villages to vote for their favourite local.

I was delighted to present the award to The Bridge Inn & Ferry in Offenham, chosen by the public for its warm welcome, great food and valued role in the community. It was a pleasure to have Emma McClarkin from the British Beer & Pub Association with us to celebrate the achievement with the team.

Of course, not everything last year was easy. Many residents were saddened by the fire at the Raven Hotel, a building full of history and memories. I have been engaging with Historic England, Wychavon District Council and other stakeholders as they continue to assess the site and consider options for the future. I would also like to thank the emergency services for

6 Completely Droitwich Spa

their outstanding professionalism on the day.

There was also ver y positive news for the town last year, with Droitwich being approved for a new Lineview visit Banking Hub. After years of bank closures, this is a significant win and will help ensure continued access to face-to-face ser vices, cash withdrawals and deposits which is par ticularly impor tant for older residents, local traders and those less confident banking online. I have been working on this since 2023 with LINK, Cash Access UK, local councillors and the Droitwich Spa Place Board, and I will continue suppor ting the project to ensure it is delivered smoothly.

Despite the ups and downs, what always stands out to me is the resilience and spirit of our community. Droitwich is full of people who care deeply about their town, and it shows in ever ything from our festivals and volunteer groups to our businesses and spor ting successes.

As always, I will continue championing your priorities in Parliament in the year ahead. If you ever need assistance or wish to share an idea, please get in touch at nigel.huddleston.mp@parliament.uk My team and I are always here to help.

I wish you and your families a ver y happy and healthy New Year.

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Completely Droitwich Spa

7

Q

ualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright opened their Droitwich office at 64 Friar Street on 1st April 1973 and will be opening their new office at 21 Victoria Square, Droitwich Spa WR9 8DG (the former Lloyds Bank Building) on 27th January 2026.

The firm offer the following services: Conveyancing Services Your home will be one of the most impor tant things in your life, meaning far more to you than just bricks and mor tar.

Whether you’re upsizing or downscaling, buying to let, selling, investing, letting, or looking to move into your dream home, there will be times when you need a property law expert to help everything run smoothly.

Our knowledgeable conveyancers will assist you in your home buying, investing or selling process, from star t to finish.

Family Law Services As members of Resolution, our Family lawyers adopt a caring and conciliatory approach, helping with all your matrimonial matters and legal processes. This includes divorce and separation, children arrangements, domestic abuse, grandparents’ rights, co-habitation agreements (ToLATA) and pre or post-nuptial agreements.

Wills and Probate Services (Private Client) With life’s twists and turns, a Will is not just for the elderly but simply part of sound financial planning for any family, individual or business. Our Private Client Team are available to help with Lasting Powers of Attorney, Inheritance Planning, Tax and Trusts advice, and Probate and Estate Administration.

Our qualified advisors are also able to manage any property related transactions, as part of any trust arrangements you wish to make.

8 Completely Droitwich Spa

Dispute Resolution (Litigation, Personal Injury and Medical Negligence) Understanding your options in any dispute can assist in reaching a resolution. Our Dispute Resolution Team deliver easy to understand advice, focusing on individual requirements, and we will work closely with you to find the best solution.

Corporate and Commercial Services When you run a business, there are times when you need legal help and suppor t. Our specialist commercial lawyers can assist you with buying, selling or leasing a commercial proper ty, company formation, terms of contract, joint ventures and shareholder agreements. We can also advise you on any HR or employment issues.

Rural Services Douglas Godwin, Par tner and solicitor, is a member of a Worcestershire farming family. He has, both professionally and personally vast experience with both agricultural and commercial proper ty, including sales and purchases, development agreements and landlord and tenant arrangements. His expertise extends to diversification and development projects, construction, environmental, forestry and other rural related matters.

If you would like to discuss a legal matter please contact us on 01905 775533 to book an appointment or visit: Solicitors in Droitwich QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright

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Our New Office Will Be Open 27th January 2026 We Look Forward To Welcoming New And Existing Clients 21 Victoria Square, Droitwich Spa WR9 8DG Tel: 01905 775533 10701795563 PW Opening Late January 2026 V2.indd 1

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Completely Droitwich Spa

A podium for Poppy A

budding actress from Droitwich Spa, who trod the red carpet with the stars, scooped podium place at a national awards ceremony.

Poppy Barrett took the bronze award in the categor y of best narrator at the Audio Production Awards (APAs) which were held in London, late last year.

In 2024 Poppy was chosen by author Claire HatcherSmith to narrate the audio book version of her series Mizzy Mysteries a detective story for eight to 12-year olds.

The heroine, Mizzy Maypole, has Downs Syndrome.

Poppy, who has also appeared on the TV series Call the Midwife and most recently was in the pantomime at the town’s Norbury theatre, has Mosaic Downs Syndrome herself.

After the first set of audio was recorded, Claire said: “Poppy’s amazing work brought Mizzy’s voice leaping off the page, more than I ever hoped for.”

At the awards, which she attended with her mum Fiona and Head of Audiobooks at Harper-Collins, Rebecca For tuin, the 30-year-old also rubbed shoulders with big names including nominees Sue Perkins and Dawn French.

Poppy, said: “I loved reading the Mizzy Mysteries. They are good fun but also help people to look beyond stereotypes.

“The awards ceremony was ver y exciting and I am pleased I got the bronze award!”

The APAs celebrate not just what’s heard, but the creativity, innovation, and talent behind ever y mic Meg Bradley from VisABLE People Agency said: “A lot of chances have been taken to make this happen and we couldn’t be more proud of Poppy!”

Poppy recording the audio book

10 Completely Droitwich Spa

Poppy on the red carpet

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11

Details of Wychavon Town revealed on new site A new website has been launched offering more details into plans to develop a new town around Worcestershire Parkway railway station.

The official name of the town has also been confirmed as Wychavon, as a way of ensuring the district’s identity continues after local government reorganisation. It will initially be called Wychavon Town to avoid confusion with the district and the district council.

CGI visuals have also been released on www. wychavontown.co.uk offering people a first glimpse of what the new town will look like in the future.

Some 10,000 high quality, energy efficient homes will be built on the site, with 5,000 of them delivered by 2041.

Wychavon Town will also feature a new town centre with retail, leisure and business oppor tunities. There will be four parks, primar y schools in each neighbourhood, up to two new secondar y schools, a spor ts hub and spor ts pitches, a GP and healthcare centre, flexible community spaces and 50 hectares of employment land.

Neighbourhoods will be attractive, tree-lined, low-traffic, accessible places where people can live, play and work. Sustainable travel will be at the hear t of Wychavon Town with the aim of keeping key ser vices within a 10 to 15-minute walk of each neighbourhood, suppor ted by a network of active travel routes. The town’s design

12 Completely Droitwich Spa

is inspired by the area’s historic landscape with at least 40 per cent of the place covered by green and blue spaces.

Crucially, the development will be infrastructureled meaning the roads, schools, shops, community buildings and other infrastructure needed to suppor t the new housing will be delivered alongside housing, not after.

Officers at Wychavon District Council are currently preparing an infrastructure planning application to be submitted by December 2026 which, once approved, will allow funding to be sought to put in key infrastructure before major development star ts.

A set of guidance for developers involved with Wychavon Town, known as a supplementar y planning document, will go out for consultation in Januar y and the public will be asked for their views. Visit www.wychavontown.co.uk to find out more or use the link on the contact us page to sign up to the e-newsletter.

Councillor Emma Kearsey, Wychavon’s executive board member for planning, infrastructure and urban design, said: “Calling the town Wychavon will ensure the shared identity, heritage and strong sense of community that defines our district will be preser ved for future generations.”

Morganisation in how The Beatles got me a job with Elo ‘This is more than just a concer t—it’s a journey through time, rich with nostalgia, musicianship and engaging stor ytelling’.

Led by Dave Scott-Morgan, a former member of the legendar y Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), the performance weaves together classic rock anthems, original compositions and well-loved ELO hits in a way that captivates audiences of all ages.

This show will resonate strongly with fans of classic rock, offering a mix of the familiar and the fresh.

Dave’s songwriting career spans decades, with credits that include The Move, The Uglys, and Magnum, alongside his contributions to ELO’s ‘Secret Messages’ and Jeff Lynne’s ‘Armchair Theatre.’

This is a professional show coming to Feckenham Village Hall on Saturday 7th February at 7.30pm as par t of the Live & Local programme. Suppor ted by Ar ts Council England, Worcestershire County Council and Redditch Borough Council.

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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Completely Droitwich Spa

13

The book that’s a hit with buyers and award judges A

book proudly chronicling Droitwich Spa’s many claims to fame now has even more stories to make readers go ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’!

Following the initial success of Ooh Aah Droitwich Spa, an expanded second edition has gone on sale at the town’s heritage centre in Victoria Square.

The hardback book has been hailed as an accessible and enter taining introduction to the Spa’s fascinating histor y and the incredible people who have called it home.

Buyers have been learning all about Droitwich’s unique brine springs, which were exploited by the Romans and eventually led to the town becoming a leading health resor t.

The book also explores Droitwich’s links to William Shakespeare, HMS Warrior, The Archers, the Beatles, the Pilgrim Fathers, the Batmobile, Rik Mayall and even Tony the Tiger!

There are quirky tales, too, of the world’s longest tennis rally, the baby abandoned in a cinema toilet, the oldest woman to ever be jailed and the prisoner of war who jumped from a moving train to escape the Nazis.

Released December 2024, the book was written and designed by journalist Adrian Caffer y, who has lived in the town for nearly all his 54 years, star ting his career on the Droitwich Spa Adver tiser.

Adrian received some wonderful feedback from The Alan Ball Awards, the UK’s foremost awards recognising outstanding contributions in local histor y publishing. They wrote: ‘‘The judges felt

14 Completely Droitwich Spa

Ooh Aah Droitwich Spa was a wonderful publication, brilliantly researched and beautifully produced with some great images. They were also impressed by the style of the publication that makes it ver y accessible, while cleverly weaving in both early and modern references to Droitwich’s heritage.’’

Droitwich MP Nigel Huddleston recently told Adrian he ‘‘really enjoyed’’ reading it, adding that his House of Commons team was getting ‘a ‘’great education about the town’’.

Droitwich Spa Place Board chairman Matt Nicol described it as ‘‘incredible’’. ‘‘You’ll read it cover to cover,’’ he told his Facebook followers. ‘‘There’s a lot to be proud of and things you’d never have known.’’

The entire 500 run of the first edition has now been sold, thanks in no small par t to Matt’s estate agency taking 200 copies to include in its welcome packs for homebuyers.

The second edition includes some updates and two brand new pages, detailing the town’s links to Live Aid and a ver y ‘cheeky’ 1970s poster which has sold over two million copies.

Adrian said: ‘‘Writing the book was a real labour of love and I’ve been overwhelmed by the love it’s been shown by the people of Droitwich. My hope is that it generates pride in Droitwich and encourages residents to play an active role in the community.”

Check out the book’s Facebook page to learn more

Droitwich included in two-unitary plans

A

landmark proposal to reshape local government in Worcestershire has been formally submitted to the Government, following approval by five local councils including Wychavon.

The document, Transforming Worcestershire: Local government that works for people, powered by place and built for the future, sets out a bold vision for creating two new unitar y authorities for the nor th and south of the area.

Bromsgrove District, Malvern Hills District, Redditch Borough, Worcester City, and Wychavon District councils worked Cllr Richard Morris together to develop the detailed proposal, suppor ted by consultants KPMG and Mutual Ventures.

It responds to the Government’s request for councils to outline how they believe local government in their area should be reorganised into single-tier authorities.

that reflects their priorities. We now urge the Government to embrace this once-in-ageneration opportunity.”

The Government is reviewing the proposal as par t of its Local Government Reorganisation programme, with initial decisions expected in 2026.

An alternative proposal for a single unitar y council for Worcestershire has also been submitted by Worcestershire County Council and Wyre Forest District Council.

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A covering letter, sent to the Government in November and co-signed by all five council leaders, highlights the proposal is not just a name change, but aims to unlock real and lasting change, delivering better outcomes for residents, businesses, and public sector par tners.

The proposal would see a Nor th Worcestershire authority covering Bromsgrove, Redditch, and Wyre Forest, and a South Worcestershire authority covering Malvern Hills, Worcester City, and Wychavon. Cer tain ser vices, such as elements of social care, would continue across both authorities where beneficial.

Cllr Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon District Council, said: “Nobody wants or asked for this change and it’s sad that a high-performing and much-valued council like Wychavon is going to disappear.

“But if we have to have change then the choice is a clear one - a rebranded status quo, or our proposal for a renewed, resilient local government, working for people and powered by place.

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irresistable flavours

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To celebrate the launch of our new January menu, we’re offering 20% off your food bill every Tuesday throughout January. The perfect excuse for a relaxed midweek treat.

Whether you’re joining us for a cosy dinner or tr ying something new from our latest menu, we look forward to welcoming you to Lumia soon.

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Completely Droitwich Spa

17

Heleborus orientalis (the Lenten rose)

Reg’s January gardening tips

GARDENING

Pruning fruit tree

W

e’re delighted to bring you top tips from Reg Moule, Worcestershire’s voice of gardening, in association with Rowberry’s Nursery in Chaddesley Corbett.

Early January Protect vulnerable plants from frost damage and scorching due to cold winds.

Warm up the soil for early sowings by covering an area with a polythene sheet, or cloches. If weed seedlings germinate under this all well and good, hoe them off.

Seed potatoes are around now, buy them soon and stand them in trays with the end with the most buds uppermost in a light, frost-free place to begin to sprout or “chit”. Plant them outdoors in late spring.

Januar y is the best month to winter-wash fruit trees using Vitax, or Growing Success Winter Tree Wash.

Cut all the foliage off Heleborus orientalis (the Lenten rose) as this both helps with disease control and allows the soon to emerge flowers to be more obvious.

Remember to feed your garden birds and make sure that water is also available for them.

Mid January Apples and pears, but not plums, cherries or any stone fruits, as well as currants, gooseberries, and summer fruiting raspberries can all be pruned now.

If you have a heated greenhouse, plant up some sprouted seed potatoes in 12 inch pots of John Innes compost No 3. The crop should be ready in April.

When you star t buying seeds arrange them behind pieces of cardboard in an appropriate box according to the intended sowing time. This makes you less likely to forget to plant something.

Check over your trees and shrubs, as this is a good time to prune off any dead, diseased or misplaced branches except on plums and cherries.

18 Completely Droitwich Spa

Happy birds

Planting potatoes

If your greenhouse is empty, clean and disinfect it ready for the new season. In an unheated greenhouse, or cold frame, sow some early salads. Tr y winter lettuce, forcing radishes, spring onions and stump-rooted carrots.

Late January Cut back climbing plants, like Virginia creeper, ivy, climbing hydrangea etc. grown on house walls by at least 45cm (18in) from all window and door frames. The plants can continue growth in spring without obstructing them.

The ready germinated seedlings and young plug plants should be available now ready for growing on in a heated greenhouse. This method removes some of the risk of growing your own plants from seed, as well as offering young plants that can only be propagated by cuttings.

Privet hedges that have been allowed to get out of control can be cut back hard at this time of year. This will encourage strong new growth from the base.

Root cuttings can be taken now from some hardy perennial plants, such as oriental poppies, delphiniums, phlox and scabious.

By Reg Moule - Rowberry’s Nursery, Chaddesley Corbett

Beautiful Climatus

GARDENING

Reg’s February gardening tips

Jerusalem artichoke tubers

Pototoes in a pot

Early February Continue planting trees, shrubs and perennial plants if conditions are suitable.

Plant Jerusalem ar tichoke tubers.

Plant shallot sets (in colder areas star t them off in pots of compost in a cold frame) If you do not have a cold frame just buy a large clear plastic storage box, drill some holes in the bottom put in a layer of grit, pop on the lid and there is a cold frame.

Look after garden birds by providing food and water- tr y to tailor the food to the birds you have around.

In heated greenhouses sow Antirrhinums, Begonia semperflorens, Verbenas and Pansies for summer bedding. Otherwise buy seedlings or baby bedding plants later to grow on.

Sow sweet pea seeds, growing them on in a cold greenhouse or frame.

Buy seed potatoes and stand them on end in trays or egg boxes to chit (begin to shoot) Potatoes are easy to grow in pots above 30cm (12in) in diameter. To this end store some first early seed potatoes in the fridge bringing some out to chit ever y 10 days. The previously chitted ones are then planted in pots and kept in a frost-free place to grow. You will then have a succession of new potatoes to har vest ever y 14 days or so.

Mid February Complete the pruning of apples, pears and soft fruits.

Prune Clematis that have their main flowering period from July onwards back to about 30cm (1ft) above the soil.

Cut back dead stems of herbaceous perennials to ground level.

Snowdrops

Stock up on pots, labels, twine and other quickly consumed sundries before the season gets into full swing.

Prune back old, woody Mahonia stems to keep the plants bushy.

Buy Begonia and Dahlia tubers as well as other summer flowering bulbs such as Gladioli.

Cover some strawberr y plants with cloches for an earlier crop.

Prune Buddlejas and the Spiraeas with colourful foliage, like Spiraea Goldflame, back hard.

Late February Dig up and divide herbaceous perennials.

Check wall trained plants to see if they require watering as it can get very dry at the base of a wall.

In heated greenhouses sow Dianthus, Lobelia, Ageratum, and multi-bloom Geraniums for summer bedding.

Dig up, divide and re-plant overcrowded clumps of snowdrops.

Prune winter jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum) by trimming back by two thirds shoots that have flowered.

Sow summer cauliflower in trays under glass.

By Reg Moule - Rowberry’s Nursery, Chaddesley Corbett

Completely Droitwich Spa

19

Main photo: Hedgehog – John Hawkins/SurreyHillsPhotography Inset photo: Dormouse – Terry Whittaker/2020VISION

Hibernation W

ith winter in full swing, some wildlife is already deep into one of nature’s most remarkable strategies for survival, hibernation.

Hidden away in burrows, log piles and leaf litter are some of our most iconic species, slowing their bodies to a near standstill as they wait for the heat and activity of spring to return.

Sleeping for a few months may sound relaxing but hibernation is more than simply going to sleep. It’s a complex physiological process in which an animal’s heart rate, breathing and body temperature drop dramatically to conserve energy when food is scarce.

It helps certain species avoid starvation and harsh weather conditions. There are three UK species that hibernate – hedgehogs, dormice and bats.

As invertebrate food sources disappear with the cold, hedgehogs retreat to carefully built nests.

During autumn, they feed on beetles, worms and anything else they can find, building up essential fat reserves. During hibernation, their hear t rate falls from around 190 beats per minute to just 20, all in an effort to keep those hard earned energy reserves going for the months ahead.

With hedgehog numbers declining, we can help by leaving quiet, sheltered spaces and resisting the urge to tidy every corner of the garden. Check out www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wild-abouthedgehogs for more ways to help our prickly pals.

Tiny, golden-furred dormice can spend up to seven months in a deep sleep. Most of their lives is spent amongst the canopy of trees but their winter nests are built close to the ground, often tucked amongst moss and leaves near the woodland floor.They change their diet with the seasons so need a diverse habitat and are very susceptible to changes in woodland and hedgerow management. Maintaining suitable habitats is a conservation priority and their populations are closely monitored by groups and organisations like ours.

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With insects absent until spring, bats retreat to cool, stable environments, such as, caves and tunnels, and old buildings like churches and barns. As the only truly flying mammal, bats require huge amounts of energy to hunt and survive so hibernation is the answer to staying healthy. During hibernation, they can go weeks without moving, though they occasionally rouse to drink or adjust their position. Disturbing a hibernating bat can be fatal because waking uses valuable energy they cannot replace until warmer weather returns. This is one reason why bat roosts are protected under law and shouldn’t be interfered with without contacting a licensed bat expert.

Together with my Wilder Worcestershire colleagues, we’re working with local community groups to help these, and other, species. We’ve led bat walks in Worcester and Droitwich, given talks on how to suppor t hedgehogs with hibernation spots in community greenspaces and have been involved in woodland management to help dormouse habitats. If you’re interested in learning more about how to help nature thrive, please get in touch and, together, we can discover more secrets of our fantastic local wildlife.

Find out more: www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/community-action Follow us www.facebook.com/worcestershirewildlifetrust

by Connor McGoldrick, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

J Wyton

Services LTD

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21

My journey of healing, colour, and transformation

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

A

s we welcome another New Year, I wish to focus mainly on health and wellness.

I’d like to share with you a little of my own personal journey and where that path has led me to today.

My stor y began in Bromsgrove, where I left school and went on to study at The Birmingham College of Food & Domestic Ar ts, training for a career in the hotel industr y. After a few years of working in hospitality, my passion for people and self-care led me to retrain as a beauty therapist, a profession I have loved and practised for more than 50 years.

In the early 1970s, I moved abroad, learning a new language and adapting to a different culture. But my real transformation began in my mid-thirties when I faced seven challenging years of serious health issues. At one point, I was told I would be in a wheelchair by the age of 40. It was that moment that became a turning point and it pushed me to explore alternative and holistic healing.

I began my studies in Reiki, Pranic Healing, Aura-Soma, tarot reading, Fast Track Technique and crystal healing to name just a few. Eventually I became a teacher in the Language of Colour and later a Reiki Master. These practices opened doorways to a deeper understanding of how energy, intention, and self-awareness influence our wellbeing.

For more than 30 years, I’ve worked as a colour consultant and teacher, helping people discover how colour can guide emotional, mental, spiritual and physical healing with self-discover y.

Alongside this, I trained as a BioChemic practitioner in Dr Schüssler Tissue Salts and advanced fur ther into naturopathic nutrition,

22 Completely Droitwich Spa

bringing together the science of the body with the intuition of the spirit. For the past ten years, I’ve collaborated with a biotech company, allowing me to integrate all these disciplines - energy healing, colour psychology, nutrition, and natural science into one complete holistic approach.

Today, my mission is to help clients understand the deeper causes behind their challenges and empower them with tools for balance and healing.

I’ve designed my own colour and holistic courses, written two published books (one translated into Dutch), and I continue to teach and share the wisdom I’ve gathered from decades of experience.

So, as this New Year begins, I’m excited to broaden the conversation. My upcoming ar ticles will explore not only health and wellness but also energy, colour, consciousness, and the many ways we can live in harmony - physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

To find out more and know that your greatest wealth is your health, contact me at colette@need4change. com

by Colette Garside

Positive news for Bromsgrove teen battling cancer B

romsgrove teenager Leo Sproson and his family have received the best possible news in his fight against cancer.

A match has been found within the UK and the 16-year-old’s bone marrow results have shown signs that his leukaemia has lessened.

He has been told he is in remission, his blood has been stable, and for the first time in a long time, it is working as it should be. However, there is still a 25 percent chance that the cancer will come back.

Leo has been struggling with serious health issues for several years. Days after his 12th bir thday, he was diagnosed with acute liver disease. He went into liver failure, but thankfully he pulled through.

After this he developed some issues with his blood, which needed to be monitored.

For the past two years, Leo has been stable, and life was getting back to normal, but recently he star ted to feel much more tired. His family initially put this down to the long days on his college course, but when he star ted getting unusually large bruises, his mum decided to bring him in for tests. Within days, Leo was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia and his medical team said that he would need a stem cell transplant.

His mum Jenna said: “We are so incredibly thankful for ever yone who is on or has registered with blood cancer charity DKMS to join the stem cell register.

You are literally saving lives, and who knows, one of you could be Leo’s match.

“Leo’s stem cell treatment started on December 22nd and the donor match is 10/12. He will be admitted to hospital on Januar y 12th, where he will be isolated for four to six weeks and prepared for transplant. He will have a 30 minute intense bag of chemotherapy, which will completely shut down his immune system.

“This is when Leo will be at his most vulnerable. As you can imagine, he will not be allowed any visitors throughout this.

“As his mum, I will be staying with him for the whole time by his side like I always do. He is, after all, still only 16 and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else so this also means I will not be allowed home.

“Thank you to ever yone for continuing to support us all through this journey. If anything, we want to help spread awareness of how important it is to get registered with DKMS UK.” Signing up to the stem cell register is a simple process, involving just a few health questions and some cheek swabs. Once you are on the register, your swabs will be tested to find out if you are a match for a patient.

To order a swab kit, visit: dkms.org.uk Completely Droitwich Spa

23

Our pop-up shop

Ten up for Spa’s thriving community pantry T

he Droitwich Community Pantr y & Fridge celebrated their tenth anniversar y in December 2025.

What star ted off as a shoebox appeal has transformed over the years to now support a substantial number of families and organisations across Worcestershire.

Based on Berry Hill Industrial Estate in Droitwich, the charity rescues food, all within sell by dates, which was destined for landfill for redistribution.

Today, the operation receives on average seven tonnes of food including fruit and veg. This is broken down by a team of volunteers into food parcels which anyone can order weekly, for a small donation, via their online website.

Roughly 200 parcels are redistributed each week, the donations of which allow the charity to suppor t families across the county who are greatly in need. Some families are referred to Droitwich Community Pantr y & Fridge by Citizens Advice, Droitwich Spa Foodbank, the emergency ser vices and other charities.

Receiving such quantities of food each week has also enabled them to give food to organisations.

For example, they provide breakfast items each week to schools in Droitwich and food also goes to St Paul’s Hostel in Worcester, Worcestershire YMCA, a youth club in Evesham and two nursing homes. In addition, they are now able to send food weekly to fellow pantry charities in Evesham, Pershore, Telford and Alvechurch.

To suppor t them, visit their website and book a weekly parcel, visit their shop on Berr y Hill Industrial Estate on a Wednesday afternoon or get in touch to offer your ser vices as a volunteer.

If you are a food/hospitality business and could utilise their ser vices as an avenue for any of your own surplus, they would love to hear from you.

24 Completely Droitwich Spa

A weekly food parcel

An example of some of the food we receive from donations

His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Beatrice Grant opening the new facility on Berry Hill, with all the trustees, Nigel Huddleston, Mayor of Droitwich and the High Sheriff.

Society begins in 2026 by focusing on restoration project F

ollowing a successful 2025, the Droitwich Histor y & Archaeology Society welcomes members, friends and visitors back for another interesting year of talks and events.

The new year opens with a presentation about the Willow Cour t Project on Wednesday, Januar y 7th at 7.30pm. The presentation’s focus is on our local historical farmhouse at Westlands, which for many years lay derelict and unloved, but desperately in need of saving.

Then came the Willow Cour t Restoration Project and the whole site was shrouded in scaffolding before the recent grand reveal. Not only was the building brought back into use, but memories were collected and an archaeological sur vey under taken to take the stor y back to the beginning with documents from 1456 and evidence of a building from the late 16th centur y.

Tim Cornah, the archaeologist who worked on the site, is our guest speaker and will provide an in-depth stor y about the site, the project, and what it means for the people of Droitwich Spa. All are welcome in the John Corbett Room, Droitwich Spa Community Hall, Heritage Way.

WR9 7SF. Admission is £3 for members and £5 for friends and visitors.

On February 4th, Mike Jenkins will give a fascinating talk about the history of medicine. We might not like all the “cures” dished out in the early days, but some may well be the foundations of the medicines we use today. But which is which? Come to our February meeting to learn more.

James Dinn relates the histor y of the City of Worcester through 20 archaeological digs, ranging from the earliest in the 1800s to 2015 on March 4th. Many of us will recall the creation of a new road layout outside the cathedral and the disruption it caused for motorists. Our well informed and enthusiastic speaker was until recently the planning archaeologist for the city.

On April 1, Morris cars and their creator will be the centre of attention with our talk entitled William Morris, Lord Nuffield with a presentation by well-known speaker Max Hunt.

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25

Creators celebrate successful showcase and plan for 2026 I

n the five years since it star ted, Creative Ar t Showcase (CAS) has attracted a large following among likeminded people in the community.

Annmarie Hurley, who manages the free Lotter y funded Creative Friends programme, said: “It’s been a ver y exciting journey, quite a whirlwind, but it’s worthwhile to see how happy we make people.”

Showcase 25 moved to the Artrix for its annual extravaganza of ar t, craft and performance, and it proved to be an excellent venue. Visitor numbers more than doubled this year to more than 2,000, making this the most successful showcase yet.

The different layout enabled the CAS team to offer three new aspects, VR experience, Family Silent Disco and a full production by Oddsocks, the professional touring theatre company.

The venue was fur ther enhanced by hot food provided by Ukrainian café Golden Wheat and Pizza Heaven, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy a highly affordable community fun day out.

Lead trustee Dominic Baker said: “The volunteers on site over the weekend were amazing with more than 90 of them giving their time, energy and experience free to make it a happy and safe environment for ever yone in the community.

“Artrix volunteers and our team worked as one joined up force which made life so much easier for all of us. We can’t say a big enough thank you.”

The team at CAS is moving forward under the direction of Mr Baker, a community leader with strong management skills and the right credentials to embed creativity into our communities.

Look out for the launch of the Young Creators Online exhibition and workshop oppor tunities in early 2026.

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Creative Arts Showcase is run entirely by volunteers, and everyone is welcome to get involved. Whether you’re passionate about art, craft, performance, administration and management - or just want to help support a vibrant community event, there’s always a role for you. To learn more or volunteer, contact info@ creativeartshowcase.org, call 07818 830988 or visit www.creativeartshowcase.org

A trio of great movies to start the new year Penguin Lessons (12A) Saturday, 31st January at 7.30pm Inspired by the true stor y of a disillusioned Englishman who went to work in a school in Argentina in 1976. Expecting an easy ride, Tom discovers a divided nation and a class of unteachable students.

However, after he rescues a penguin from an oilslicked beach, his life is turned upside-down. He hoses the bird down and then the blighter won’t stop following him. Steve Coogan tries to star but it’s the penguin who deser ves top billing. (UK 2025)

The Marching Band (12a) Friday 13th February at 8pm Thibaut is an internationally renowned conductor who travels the world. When he learns he was adopted, he discovers the existence of a younger brother, Jimmy, who works in a school cafeteria and plays the trombone in a small marching band.

Ever ything seems to set them apar t, except their love of music. Sensing his brother’s exceptional talent, Thibaut decides to remedy the injustice of fate. Jimmy begins to dream of a different life... (FR 2024)

City Lights (U) Saturday, 28th February at 7.30pm Even though the talkies had taken over by 1931, Charlie Chaplin preferred to work without dialogue and, in this tale of the love between the Tramp and a blind flower girl, his insistence pays off. The film is both hilarious and intensely moving - one of the finest of its kind. It has a dedicated musical score composed by Chaplin himself. The film has been painstakingly restored - you’ll never believe that it’s 94 years old! (USA 1931) There will also be a film in FeckenOdeon 2 on Friday, 13th February – title not known at the time of going to press. Check feckenodeon.co.uk nearer the date.

Tickets for all FeckenOdeon films can be booked online through feckenodeon.co.uk, by phone on 0333 666 3366 or in person at The Rose & Crown and The Village Shop in Feckenham. The FeckenOdeon is Feckenham’s community cinema based at Feckenham Village Hall, High Street, Feckenham. B96 6HN Completely Droitwich Spa

27

Delivering panache T

he latest BMW 330e M Sport Touring plug-in hybrid certainly stacks up superlatives.

There’s an adage which tells us that ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’. This applies most particularly to the Touring (or estate car). A sensible concept if ever there was one.

Many novelty-seeking nomads, having had their heads turned by crossovers, now realise what they have missed. Put simply, if practical motoring is your aim, a ‘Touring’ will take you far along the road to perfection.

One of the best there is, it is priced from £49,130 (£61,913 when all the ‘make life even more wonderful’ packs have been added). Well equipped, it has sat nav, air con, cruise control, power seats, sunroof and every adjunct to comfort and convenience you can think of. This latest model has a huge panoramic touch screen to control most functions but, thankfully, the

28 Completely Droitwich Spa

rotary control on the centre console remains. It is nigh-on ergonomically perfect.

Rivals to this functional family/business Touring, designed to sweep away the blues, have little chance. It’s the magic broomstick with magic right down to its rubber souls - it’s that nice to drive. And that’s it’s forte.

Simply put, it is aristocratic in its demeanour, performance and overall presence, exuding quality. Take for instance the excellent ride and the silence of the cabin. One feels at home in an oasis of calm.

DRIVE TIME

and performance With such good practicality and performance, the 3 Series Touring is at the top level of this market niche. It’s as elegant as a dapper dandy with the cut and thrust of a rampaging highwayman. The motto is not so much ‘stand and deliver’ as ‘deliver outstanding’.

A 4 cylinder in-line 2.0 litre petrol engine combines with the electric motor and can deliver 292PS. It’s a plug-in hybrid so you swap into electric mode when you want to. Electric only range is realistically around 50 miles - ideal for stop-start city driving – and realistically average consumption is around 40 mpg.

Few cars will deliver you and your payload with such dash and panache. It’s a sublime motorway cruiser and when twisty roads beckon it comes

alive as you select ‘sport’ mode and enjoy waggling the paddles controlling the seamless 8 speed automatic gearbox as you explore the responsive handling - due in part to traditional rear wheel drive. It is as smooth and responsive as a sinuous dancer with enough straight-line momentum to startle an astronaut.

Given the carrying capacity, it truly represents 21st century space travel. This is not any old estate and driving such a car puts much of the competition in the shade. Who would buy a C Class Mercedes when you can have one of these?

With excellent road manners, comfort and space for anything, I’m pleased to report that the BMW 330e M Sport Touring gives an experience that keeps you feeling as fresh as a daisy and fragrant as a bottle of Action Man aftershave.

by Syd Taylor

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29

Passenger numbers at Droitwich Spa just 0.19% off pre COVID Levels Passenger Numbers at Droitwich Spa just 0.19% off pre COVID Levels

Recent figures released by the Office for Road and Rail (ORR) show that in the last 12 months passenger numbers have almost reached pre Covid levels at Droitwich Spa. Stations on the Stourbridge line which are now up to or exceeding pre Covid levels Hagley and Hartlebury.

The for most significant growth hasshow beenthat seeninatthe last 12 ecent are figures released by the Office Road and Rail (ORR) Hartlebury where passenger numbers are now 22% greater than before Covid. months passenger numbers have almost reached pre Covid levels at Droitwich Spa. Hartlebury has been subject to a successful campaign by SLUG to improve the Stations on the Stourbridge line which are now up experienced at all stations along the line in the particular Sunday serving that station. last 12 months, with the exception of Smethwick to ortimetable exceedingand pre in Covid levels are Hagleyservices and

R

Galton Bridge, which hasCovid seen levels, a 1% drop possibly Har tlebur y. The while most significant growthpassenger has been numbers However, in other cases are below pre seen at Har tlebur y where passenger numbers are due to slightly less connectional oppor tunity at growth has been experienced at all stations along the line in the last 12 months, with now 22% greater than before Covid. Har tlebur y that station. Never theless, with the growth that the exception of Smethwick Galton Bridge, which has seen a 1% drop possibly due has been subject to a successful campaign by is being seen, it is expected that most stations to slightly less connectional opportunity at that station.

Nevertheless, on the Stourbridge Line willwith see the themgrowth surpass SLUG to improve the timetable and in par ticular that is being seen, it is expected that most stations on the Stourbridge Line see A full Sunday ser vices ser ving that station. pre Covid levels over the next 12 will months. themwhile surpass pre cases Covidpassenger levels over the next breakdown 12 months.is Agiven full breakdown is given in However, in other numbers in the table below. are below pre Covid the table below.levels, growth has been

If youIf wish helptosuppor t Stourbridge Line UserLine Group (SLUG) more you to wish help support Stourbridge User Group (SLUG) more detail be SLUG

by Andy Copecan Secretary, detailfound can beon found their website: www.stourbridgelineusergroup.info theironwebsite.

Andy Cope, 30 Completely Droitwich Spa Secretary, SLUG

Completely Droitwich Spa

31

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