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Welcome to the March issue of Completely Bromsgrove

On the topic of gardening, please welcome a new member to the team; Jules Evans of Stoke Road Allotments, who has kindly taken over from Suzi. I would like to say a big thank you to Suzi, who has been offering advice to Completely Bromsgrove readers since February 2021. Thank you and happy future gardening Suzi and welcome Jules. You can read her first column on page 18.

Staying on the theme of the great outdoors, the walkers among us may already be looking out for ‘The Mad March Hare’, Wendy Carter of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust talks about hares in this issue, for her fascinating article turn to page 20. Also this month, the founders of Henbrook Hedgehog Rescue share how the rescue came about, where they are today, and how Completely Bromsgrove readers can support their amazing work.

Moving on, we have some landmarks to honour. Kevin Ward celebrates 40 years as Bellman, turn to page 27 to discover Kevin’s and his family’s journey. You can read all

about the 90-year history of the iconic radio masts at Wychbold on page 28 and on page 29 management team Mark Goddard and James Maycroft celebrate ten years at the helm of Stoke Prior Sports and Leisure Club. This dynamic duo have transformed the historic club into a thriving community hub and to mark this milestone they are raising funds in aid of the Harry Bennett (HB9) memorial fund. Harry sadly died in 2020 at the age of 16 from sepsis.

Last, but not least, regular Completely Bromsgrove reader Jackie Kamara shares the highlights of the mini break she enjoyed with her sisters Bev and Debbie and their partners in the Hungarian capital Budapest. Turn to page 32 to find out what they did and saw in this amazing city.

As we always say folks, please support our local high street and independent businesses, otherwise be prepared to lose them!

Michele Ford

A message from our MP

How our High Street looks has a huge impact on how we feel about the place where we live and call home.

The identity of town and village centres is changing – a lot of which is driven by people’s shopping habits moving online. In filling the void on our high streets, we have seen a rise in vape shops, convenience stores and barbers.

There is plenty of evidence that many of these businesses are widely considered to be a front for money laundering and sadly many are linked to people smuggling. This doesn’t just impact us economically but affects the social identity of our communities too.

To restore pride in our town and village centres multi-agency action must be taken to clear up what I call the black market high street. I’m doing a lot of work on this as the impact of this affects all our lives either directly or indirectly.

Another underbelly of the black market high street is the rise in non-surgical aesthetic treatments. Did you know that this industry is completely unregulated? Like me, you may be shocked to learn this.

I met Nicky Robinson, the owner of NR Aesthetics & Skin Ltd, a CQC regulated medical aesthetics clinic in Blackwell, who brought this issue to my attention. I want to thank Nicky for all the work she is doing to protect people from unregulated professionals.

To protect professional clinicians and the country’s health, I’m working with Nicky to demand the Government introduces a mandatory licensing regime for non-surgical aesthetic treatments.

Fuelled by social media and societal pressures, demand for non-surgical aesthetic treatments such as Botox and lip fillers on the high street by unregulated

professionals is on the rise and is an emergent healthcare crisis across the country.

Currently in the UK there is no regulation at all in medical aesthetic procedures. There are also no legal training requirements for beauty therapists and aesthetic practitioners injecting Botox or other brands of botulinum toxin, or dermal fillers.

Essentially this means anyone can buy Botox or dermal fillers on the black market and start injecting people with no training whatsoever. We know this is taking place in unregulated premises on the high street.

In 2023, Save Face, a government-approved register for medical aesthetic treatments, received reports from more than 3,000 people of complications or unwanted outcomes from cosmetic procedures. 48% of the complaints were from women aged between 18 and 25.

The Health and Social Care Act 2022 gives the Government the power to introduce a new licensing scheme and age limits for non-surgical cosmetic procedures. This would help improve standards and protect individuals from those without licences, including from the potentially harmful physical and mental impacts of poorly performed cosmetic procedures.

However, no licensing scheme has been introduced yet. More evidence is emerging which makes it clear why the Government must urgently introduce mandatory licensing for non-surgical aesthetic treatments. This crisis will only get worse if ministers don’t act now. Action must be taken before anyone else suffers from adverse effects from botched procedures, or even worse, tragically loses their life.

www.bromsgroverail.org.uk

Uplifting news from Barnt Green station

BARRUP congratulates Barnt Green Parish Council, whose chairman is Robert Cholmondeley, also the chair of BARRUP, in succeeding in getting Network Rail to start work on three new lifts at the village’s station. This will enable disabled passengers to access all four platforms much more easily.

Barnt Green is an important interchange station, as it allows passengers from Alvechurch and Redditch to transfer onto the West Midlands Railway Cross City Service to Bromsgrove, at which they can change onto the WMR New Street to Hereford service and travel directly to the seven stations, including Worcester Foregate Street and Great Malvern, between Droitwich and Hereford. The three stations have, as of April 2024, a combined footfall of just under 1.3 million and the number is growing every year.

One of BARRUP’s aims is to improve the service between New Street and Hereford for all the potential passengers wishing to travel to these stations, preferably by having all the hourly trains to call at Barnt Green. Alternatively, if we cannot achieve this, we would like all Cross City Trains on the Bromsgrove service to call at Barnt Green to reduce the waiting times at Bromsgrove for the onward journey.

Just before Christmas, three members of the BARRUP Committee met Bradley Thomas, MP

for the Bromsgrove constituency, which includes Alvechurch and Barnt Green, and Chris Bloore, MP for Redditch, to discuss our concerns about the rail services in North East Worcestershire. We had a constructive meeting, and it is gratifying to read in the local press about the MPs taking up longstanding issues such as the “lake” in the Alvechurch Station car park, and ongoing delays, cancellations, overcrowded trains and unreliable WMR services.

The annual general meeting of BARRUP will take place on Tuesday, March 11th at 2.30pm in the committee room at the Bromsgrove District Council offices at Parkside. It will be followed by one of the regular quarterly meetings.

If you are interested in finding out more about BARRUP, you are very welcome to join us at both meetings, although only current members are eligible to vote at the AGM.

by Nick Taylor, memsec@bromsgroverail.org.uk

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Headteacher turned author pens debut mystery novel

Alocal man who uses the pseudonym Steven George has written and published his first novel, The Bromsgrove Collectors’ Society.

Steven has lived in Bromsgrove with his wife for 36 years and decided to pursue his passion for creative writing when, with his teaching career complete and family grown up, he at last found the time to put pen to paper.

The fictional characters live and work in the town where their passion for collecting brings them together. The book, subtitled A Murder in the Midst, is based around the Bromsgrove area and highlights many local landmarks and venues.

Steven said: “I felt that Bromsgrove has its own story to tell, and I wanted a vehicle that drove the plot. I really enjoyed researching the story and weaving in the town’s history.

“Bromsgrove has a significant industrial heritage as well as making a judicial and artistic contribution over time, for example, landmarks and venues such as Avoncroft Museum and the Norton Collection, Tardebigge Flight and The Saltway.

“I felt it was worth highlighting the town’s famous son AE Housman and recognising the burial place of the inventor of Cluedo, Anthony E Pratt. I have tried to weave these and more local references into the body of the novel.

“The book falls into the genre of cosy murder mystery and follows a group of disparate collectors who form a group to share their interests. I wanted to create a group of friends

that shared an interest in collecting artifacts and memorabilia.”

Against this local backdrop, a horrendous accident occurs, and all participants fall under the suspicion of murderous intent.

An unassuming modest narrator, a loud, egregious but flawed victim and a group of colourful characters some with an axe to grind, present a range of emerging conflicts within the group that unintentionally point the finger of guilt in various dubious directions.

The protagonist is really the self-appointed secretary of the group, Andrew Byron, who turns amateur sleuth to help Detective Inspector Chandler unravel the mystery. Together they riddle out and unearth the guilty party or is it parties?’

“What I hope is that people can recognise what an interesting place Bromsgrove really is. Sometimes we can all take our surroundings for granted in the busyness of life!”

Steven added.

The Bromsgrove Collectors Society; A Murder in the Midst is independently published exclusively on Amazon.co.uk . It is available in paperback or on Kindle.

Chatty benches turn small talk into big connections

Three new chatty benches have been installed in Bromsgrove in a bid to help combat loneliness.

The initiative has been led by district councillor Mick Marshall, who obtained plaques from national housing association Anchor to put on the benches in his Sanders Park ward. It’s a simple but effective idea - benches are marked with signs indicating that people sitting there are open to chatting with others. This can promote spontaneous conversations to break down barriers and support people’s wellbeing. The benches are easily spotted by Anchor’s vibrant purple plaques which include internet links to obtain more information.

The district council helped to fix the plaques on the benches on the Recreation Ground outside Asda, Sanders Park near the café and in the newly paved area of Chapel Street in the town centre.

Similar benches have already been installed by other Worcestershire local authorities including Catshill and North Marlbrook Parish Councils as well as in Malvern and Rubery. The idea copies similar schemes in other countries such as Australia, Canada, the USA, Switzerland and Ukraine. Anchor, who supply the free plaques, promote the scheme across the UK and last year completed their 700th installation.

Research from Anchor highlights that nearly a quarter (23%) of people across the UK frequently feel lonely, rising to a third (33%) among people aged between 16 and 34.

“I saw the chatty benches in Rubery and thought they were a great idea,” said Councillor Marshall.

“Loneliness has been called the hidden epidemic and can have a huge impact on the health and wellbeing of many isolated people, young and old. By sitting on the benches people are letting everyone know they’re happy to chat with whoever joins them. So go ahead and make a difference to someone - you might be the only person they speak to that day.”

For more details, visit https://www.anchor.org.uk/ media/campaigns/chatty-benches

Attempts to suspend county council elections aborted

Despite attempts by Conservative-run Worcestershire County Council to halt the local elections set to take place on 1st May, the Government have confirmed that the elections will be going ahead as scheduled.

Reacting to the news, Bromsgrove’s Liberal Democrats have thanked residents who made their voices heard in calling for the elections to go ahead and to those who supported the party’s petition.

Councillor Sam Evans, who represents Harwood Park, the Parklands and Oakalls on Bromsgrove District Council and is standing for Bromsgrove East Division in May, said: “The Liberal Democrats are looking forward to residents being able to hold the county council to account for their decisions taken over the past four years, including the flawed BREP scheme which has seen the destruction of hundreds of trees and will bottleneck the A38 all while failing to adequately tackle Bromsgrove’s traffic issues.”

Councillor Josh Robinson, who represents Bromsgrove Central Division, has announced he will be standing for election again in May, adding: “I’m delighted that attempts to halt the elections have failed. Residents will have the opportunity to send a strong message of opposition to the Labour Government’s plans to build 12,000 more new houses in Bromsgrove.”

The Liberal Democrats have announced that a full slate of candidates will be standing in Bromsgrove on 1st May.

Bleed trauma kit provides community safety boost

Catshill Village Hall is proud to announce the installation of a new life-saving bleed trauma kit, made possible thanks to generous community support and successful funding efforts.

This vital resource will be positioned alongside the existing automated external defibrillator (AED) located outside the hall, providing quick access to essential first aid equipment in emergencies.

The kit’s addition is a significant step in enhancing public safety and ensuring the local community is well-prepared for critical incidents. In situations involving serious injuries such as severe bleeding or trauma, immediate intervention can mean the difference between life and death. It is specifically designed to provide the tools necessary for bystanders to offer life-saving assistance before emergency services arrive.

Included in the kit are essential medical supplies such as tourniquets, trauma dressings, haemostatic gauze,

and shears, all designed for easy and rapid use by the public. Its location alongside the AED ensures residents and visitors have immediate access to both cardiac and trauma response tools in one central, familiar place. This initiative highlights the importance of public preparedness and community resilience. The village hall encourages everyone to become familiar with the equipment and basic first aid principles. Further plans may include educational sessions and demonstrations to raise awareness and confidence in using both the AED and bleed trauma kit.

Residents and visitors are urged to take note of the equipment’s location and to spread the word about this new life-saving resource. Together, we can continue to build a safer and more responsive community.

Local butchers help teach at South Bromsgrove High School (SBHS)

Monday 3rd of February saw Michelle and Lilith of Butcher’s Block Bromsgrove, go in to help support year 10 food preparation and nutrition GCSE students as part of their course.

It was the second year the High Street favourites were invited to the school to teach and this year it was focused on offal.

Demonstrating the health benefits and showing the differences between each animal. As well as talking through the different types, the ladies then demonstrated foods made with offal including faggots and black pudding, that had already been cooked before the lesson; we were pleased that many of the students tried both!

After a short lunch break, it was on to teaching life skills as the students learnt how to break down a full chicken in to portions, that they seasoned ready for cooking the following day. The class split into two as Michelle and Lilith worked with the teachers of each class to show them just how it was done.

The students each had their own chickens and worked through the task with the butchers on hand to help and guide them through... “It really is a fantastic experience to see the students get stuck in with the practical lesson” says

Michelle, “being asked to come back to help show where food comes from is something we are both very proud of.”

“So many ailments can be controlled by food and showing the students the benefits of offal, especially on a nutritional point of view, also educates them about how traditional cooking is used as a way to manage health” adds Lilith. “We were asked so many great questions during the lesson and had messages of thanks from parents, excited to try the chicken that was prepared, seasoned and then cooked by their children.”

The multi award winning independent butchers have already been factored in to the schools diary for next year where it’ll be the third year they’re sharing their knowledge about where our food comes from.

“We both would like to thank Wendy, Emilia and Abi for having us back in the year 10 class and say a huge well done to all the students on their hard work.”

Treat your mum to something tasty this Mothers Day

The ladies at Butcher’s Block Bromsgrove are pulling out the stops for your mum’s this mother’s day. Whether you want a delicious sweet & savory hamper or to cook a special lunch, the girls are on hand to help.

If it’s a posh lunch you are after, why not order one of our traditional homemade beef Wellingtons. Available in sizes from 2 to 6 people, each is made onsite using local fillet, homemade mushroom duxelle and encased in pastry.

If it’s a tasty treat, we have a gift box available which contains a beef Wellington for 2, a bag of your choice of wychbold fudge and 2 slices of Lil’s homemade bread pudding. Mothers day boxes are priced £30 and available on order only.

Don’t forget to start ordering your lamb for easter and follow @butchersblockbromsgrove for all updates and new products.

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Why are more wills being contested?

Since 2017 court cases relating to contested or disputed wills have increased by more than 34% and by more than 140% in the last ten years according to figures released by the Ministry of Justice. So why is this happening?

As we know, property prices have vastly increased over the periods in question, as well as the significant increase in people falling within the inheritance tax (IHT) bracket which is creating greater pressure on those gifting assets in their lifetime. Broken families, advances in technology, and the use of internet banking all contribute to this issue. In addition, there is an evident wealth gap between generations and people are living longer due to improvements in healthcare, nutrition and advances in medical science.

Another reason for the significant increase in contested wills is the rise in dementia and other disorders relating to the ageing population. It appears that older vulnerable people are increasingly at risk of being exploited for financial gain by unscrupulous persons close to them.

It is also clear that many younger people are now facing a much tougher financial environment than their parents or grandparents, due to a range of factors including pressures in the job market, inflation, property prices and the recently increased cost of borrowing.

There are clearly additional incentives for family members and beneficiaries of wills to attempt to gain as much value as possible from loved ones’ estates, whether fair or not, including the disputing of wills via prolonged court battles. It is now suggested that these legal battles are taking two or more years for a case to even get to trial, and the implications are not only financial but emotional for all of those involved.

It is therefore essential that people take specific upfront action by way of planning to minimise the risk of such disputes or contestation. Updated wills and lasting powers of attorney should be put in place, reviewed regularly and when mental capacity is not in question. We also strongly encourage people to closely and regularly communicate their wishes with their families.

If you are considering making a will, call The Will Partners on 01527 877313 to make an appointment.

Flowering bulbs bring smiles after dull winter

There’s plenty to get stuck into this month and one enjoyable task is looking at the flowering bulbs and noting where the gaps are with a view to filling them up in the autumn. Take photos to remind yourself how lovely the garden looks after a bleak winter.

Rhubarb will be growing now so keep an eye out for seed heads which may shoot up. Seed heads are a sign of distress so add manure and old tea bags to give it a boost and imagine the look on your family’s faces when they are eating rhubarb crumble in a few weeks’ time.

Start weaving early clematis plants into arches or trellis to get the most out of them and tidy the borders ready for spring bedding plants. It’s a great time to check out the garden centres for plants and seeds especially as new stock is arriving.

Herbs will be showing themselves so watch out for borage which is the earliest of the herbs and is a great meal for the bees. Borage flowers are lovely put in ice cubes over the summer for cocktails - they do look like spiders when the ice melts though. The caterpillars of the scarlet tiger moth and the painted lady butterfly love borage so if the leaves disappear it’s because these gorgeous creatures are feasting on them.

Frogspawn will be aplenty by now. Frogs and toads don’t mind where they lay their spawn so don’t be too quick to empty out old bowls or even plastic bags before checking that Mrs Frog hasn’t been there first.

The birds will be madly nesting so leave out any interesting bedding materials for them such as dog hair or the contents of the vacuum, you will be amazed what can be turned into bedding. Find a safe place to put it, maybe in the crook of tree branches or in an old teapot hung from a tree.

Time to start clearing piles of leaves that have accumulated over the winter, don’t do it too soon as it means some creatures will have to find themselves new homes. Clean the garden furniture too so that job is done and when the first proper sunshine arrives it will be ready to sit on straight away and your first barbecue won’t be delayed by the boring jobs.

The dreaded slugs and snails may be showing themselves so it’s time to clean out your slug traps, buy the cheapest supermarket beer you can find and get your traps out at the ready. Empty the traps regularly and if you find any slug eggs scoop them up and put them on the bird table as a welcome snack for the birds.

Then you will be ready to enjoy the spring sunshine that is just around the corner

Happy gardening everyone!

By Jules Evans - Stoke Road

Calling all budding flower arrangers!

On 20th March, Bromsgrove Flower Club invite you to join us for a peaceful, relaxing afternoon, observing a master class in Flower Arranging.

If you love flowers but need inspiration, watching our Demonstrators will help you along the way. Every flower arrangement is beautiful. Last month our in-house competition was “Twigs sticks and all That” , (see photo). This month it is “A Touch of Spring”

We meet on the third Thursday of the month at All Saints Church Hall in Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove at 2.00pm. You will be welcomed with complimentary refreshments and a very friendly group of people. We offer a great Bring and Buy to browse through, Raffle tickets to win the Demonstrator’s displays, a sweepstake to take a chance on and lots of information on future events.

For further information see our website at www.bromsgroveflowerclub.co.uk

Much needed makeover for district’s play areas

Bromsgrove District Council are undertaking works to upgrade and improve several play areas.

The works are a part of the council’s play improvement strategy, which will see improvements to play areas over several years.

Tenders are out for major refurbishments of Charford Rec and Upland Grove open space, with works expected to start at these sites in late spring and early summer.

Foxglove Way play area is also due to be getting a refurbishment, and officers are currently working with Norton ward councillor, Councillor Rob Hunter on this matter.

Cabinet member for leisure, Councillor Bernard McEldowney said: “These upcoming works are fantastic news for the local area as they’re much needed across the district, both for safety reasons, and to improve the play experience for our younger residents.”

The following works are being made possible through UK Shared Prosperity Funding.

The outdoor gym equipment at St Chad’s Park in Rubery will be replaced, works to carry this out will

take place in March.

In addition to the ongoing works at Lickey End Park and the Oakalls. Aston Fields Rec has had a surfacing improvement, replacing the existing grass matting with a new rubber mulch surface under much of the play equipment.

Surfacing works have been carried out at Barnsley Hall play area and Lingfield Walk play area, while they are due to take place soon at Arundel Road play area.

Mad March Hares

Some lucky readers may be fortunate enough to spot boxing hares but what

they actually getting up to?

Catching site of one brown hare is exciting enough but if you’re lucky enough to spot more two or more in a field at this time of year, you might realise where the phrase ‘mad March hares’ came from. You may see them chasing (or ‘haring’) after each other, barging into each other or up on their hind legs, front paws grappling. Rather than two males fighting over a female, boxing hares are actually a female fighting off a male’s over-amorous attention.

Unlike their relatives, the much more sociable rabbits that live in large groups underground, hares are relatively solitary creatures. Spring is one of the few times of the year when they come into contact with each other; even when females have youngsters, they don’t hang around in a family group.

Females have up to four litters per year with one to four young (leverets) in each litter. Hares live above ground so leverets are born with fur and with their eyes open. Despite this, they’re at high risk from predators – from foxes to owls –so they spend their time in their own depression in the ground called a form. Mums only spend a few minutes each day with them and they’re independent after just three weeks.

Brown hares prefer open habitats, such as arable or pasture, but can also be seen in small copses and hedgerows. Most are found in areas where there’s a mix of smaller fields and where a variety of crops are grown in rotation with grassland.

If you are lucky enough to get good views of a hare, you’ll see how it differs from a rabbit.

are

Although superficially similar, hares are much bigger and stockier with powerful hind legs and distinctively large, black-tipped ears. Those powerful hind legs allow them to reach a staggering 70km per hour at full speed.

It probably doesn’t come as a surprise that hares have special places in cultures around the world. Chinese mythology has the Hare in the Moon whilst the Egyptian hieroglyph for ‘existence’ is a hare. Even the Easter Bunny started out as a hare so even if you’re not lucky enough to catch sight of the real thing, Easter is just around the corner.

If you’re looking for the perfect present for a hare-lover, why not buy a virtual adoption from our online shop www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/shop to help us protect and restore more habitat for these super-zooming boxers.

Keep up to date with us... on X x.com/WorcsWT on Instagram instagram.com/worcswt/ on Facebook facebook.com/worcestershirewildlifetrust on Bluesky bsky.app/profile/worcswt.bsky.social on YouTube youtube.com/c/WorcswildlifetrustUK1

by Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

Brown hare on the run by Lesley Key

Helping hedgehogs live their best wildlife

Wefirst noticed we had hedgehogs visiting in 2020 and after researching how best to support them, we started putting out kitten biscuits and fresh water every night. The number of visitors gradually increased, which is when I added wildlife cameras. It was wonderful to watch the secret life of Britain’s most loved prickly mammals.

I looked forward to watching their antics every night, until one arrived during the day. This is a clear sign it needed help, as the motto goes: Out at night I’m alright, out in the day, I’m not okay. Our nearest available rescue was Array4hogs in Birmingham, which has successfully rehabilitated many hedgehogs from our location.

The importance of having our cameras quickly became apparent when in March 2024 we noticed one of our visitors had an unwarranted haircut. This poor hedgehog had been injured by a strimmer. I made him as comfortable as possible until I could get him to the rescue in the morning.

A few days later we noticed another one of our visitors with a wound to his head which had become infected. The following week yet another hedgehog arrived with the most horrific injury. Within the space of two weeks, we had rescued three hedgehogs with strimmer injuries, which broke my heart. Having to administer first aid to them highlighted the need for more rescues, which is where Henbrook Hedgehog Rescue in Stoke Prior became a light in the dark.

I started by raising awareness with our neighbours of hedgehogs in our area and contacted contractors to make them aware of the importance of checking for wildlife when using strimmers.

When a dog walker found an abandoned hoglet, Spike became our first patient. With guidance, I hand fed him a special formula. After a short time, he was released to our garden where we enjoyed watching him grow, living his best wildlife.

By the end of 2024, we had built our own dedicated hogspital. This is a

safe space where we can rescue and rehabilitate hedgehogs in need. Running any rescue isn’t easy, but the reward of rescuing these animals and releasing back to the wild fills our hearts with happiness.

We can all make a difference in helping our wildlife thrive. Why not make a hedgehog highway to your garden, get children involved in making a log pile, check for wildlife before using gardening equipment and most importantly, if you see a hedgehog in need, please contact your nearest hedgehog rescue or wildlife friendly vet.

Henbrook Hedgehog Rescue relies on the generosity of the community, without such kindness we wouldn’t be able to keep this dream alive. If you’d like to support the rescue, rehabilitation and release of hedgehogs you can find more information on our Facebook page where you can find a link to the Amazon wish list and ways to send food. You can also sponsor a hutch.

For more details, call Holly on 07572 525315 or email henbrookhedgehogrescue@gmail.com Search ’Henbrook Hedgehog Rescue’ on Facebook

Our first patient Spike

Clear March skies offer so much to see

M arch marks the end of winter and in astronomy too, with the familiar objects and constellations of winter sky setting earlier each n ight.

If the sky is clear, March is a good month to get outside and see them before they all disappear, and there are lots to see.

At the beginning of the month, the brilliant planet Venus is still visible low in the western sky after sunset and on 1st March it will be joined by a thin crescent Moon. Around 8pm, Jupiter, the largest of the planets, is visible in the south-west in the constellation Taurus. Binoculars or a telescope will reveal its four largest moons which, as they orbit Jupiter, can be seen to change their position over days, or even hours.

To the left and higher in the sky is the red planet Mars in Gemini. On the 8th it is joined by the gibbous Moon which makes for a nice photo opportunity. This is a good time to look at the Moon with binoculars or telescope as craters near the terminator are in shadow, revealing greater detail than when the Moon is full. The terminator is the line on the Moon where night meets day, marking dawn and the beginning of 14 day lunar daylight.

Below Mars is the most well-known of the winter constellations, Orion – the hunter. Look for three stars in a line which signify Orion’s belt. Follow the

line to the left to find Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. Follow the same line to the right to find the orange star Aldebaran, just below Jupiter, and further still to the open cluster, The Pleiades, or Seven Sisters. Allow your eyes to become accustomed to the dark and then look to see how many stars you can see. With a dark, clear sky and good eyesight you should be able to see about six.

Then, take a look with binoculars and see how many more you can see. It is likely that there will be too many to count. The Pleiades are a young open cluster of hot blue stars only around 100 million years old. By comparison, our Earth is around 4,540 million years old.

Bromsgrove Astronomical Society meet at Bromsgrove Rugby Club (B60 3DH) on the first Monday of each month for an informal/observing evening and on the third Monday when we have an invited speaker. We also have an annual trip, star party and quiz.

If you would like to know more about astronomy or perhaps how to use the telescope that you had for Christmas, then visitors are always welcome. For more details, visit www.broms-astro.org.uk

Adrian Bigland

BR O MS GR OV E

WAll-inclusive

e are focused on the happiness of each and every one of our residents and we love being able to at Burcot, which include a full and varied timetable of activities for all to enjoy.

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

MEET & GREET MONDAYS for those living with dementia

Every last Monday of the month, come and join us for an afternoon of singing, dancing and refreshments between 2:00 and 5:00pm

DROP-IN Clinic

with Will’s, Power of Attorney, Trusts and more. Our advisors will be available between 10:00am and 1:00pm and we’ll be serving light refreshments throughout

Find out more about our amazing care home, and what all-inclusive really looks like.

Telephone Kiran on 0121 445 5552, or visit: burcotgrange.co.uk

How we care for dementia

Wednesday 19th March 2025

10am - 4pm

At our interactive event learn more about our dementia care and how we support families through their dementia journey. Listen to our dementia talk, sample our delicious food and see how we modify menus for dementia, learn about the benefits of meaningful activity and visit our dementia occupation stations. Trusted

To

please call 01527 958 612 or email rebecca.pearce@careuk.com

Dementia care, led by experts

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

Purpose-built facilities

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

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

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

Care you can trust

We work with academic partners and respected leaders in the field, to ensure we stay up to date with the latest approaches to care. The Association of Dementia Studies at The

Join our upcoming event

Dementia café

Last Friday of each month, 2pm - 4pm

Aimed at those living with dementia and their loved ones, you’ll have the opportunity to share experiences, take part in a reminiscence activity and get advice and support.

To book please call 01527 958 418 or email rebecca.pearce@careuk.com

University of Worcester helps us to create a bespoke training programme, whilst Dr Nori Graham - former chairman of Alzheimer’s Society and honorary Vice-President of Alzheimer’s Disease International - assists in developing a holistic and forward-thinking approach to the delivery of dementia care.

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

Living well with dementia

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

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

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 9,000 families trust us to care for their older loved ones.

To find out more about the quality dementia care on offer at Chandler Court care home, call 01527 958 612 .

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

Spire Appeal Project underway at St John’s

Friends of St John’s are excited to announce that the much-anticipated restoration works to the church’s iconic spire have officially begun. This marks the start of the Spire Appeal Project where extensive repairs to the spire top will preserve the heritage and architectural grandeur of this historic landmark for generations to come.

During 2024 the team at Friends of St John’s raised an impressive £386,000 in pledged grants and donations from local and national sources. The year began with a generous grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund of £249,975, received with thanks to National Lottery players. This important award kick started further applications and during the year grants were gratefully received from Bromsgrove Rotary, Bromsgrove Society, Bromsgrove Court Leet, Droitwich Preservation Society, L G Harris, Laslett’s, Albright Grimley and Bromsgrove Institute Trusts. Organised events and donations from individuals accounted for an impressive £21,000. At the end of the year the Edward Cadbury Trust, the National Churches Trust and the Wolfson Foundation confirmed their support for the project to restore the town’s Grade I listed building with the tallest spire in Worcestershire.

Under the watchful eye of contractors Phillips & Curry, the project began in early February with the scaffolding of the tower and spire, a task which will take until Easter to complete. Scaffolding will also be erected on the inside of the spire to hold the counterweight when the top section is removed. Worcester stonemasons Lewis Allard and Son will be assisting with the restoration work during the summer. This will include taking down the top 2.5 meters of the spire, re-building with new stonework

and replacing the encased iron vane rod with stainless steel. Whilst the scaffolding covers the 198ft structure there will be an opportunity to carry out required stone replacements and undertake the repointing of joints.

As a legacy for the project, the removed spire apex will be rebuilt in the memorial garden in the churchyard.

During the course of the project, which is expected to take until September, the church will be closed during the week but will continue to be used for Sunday worship and remain open to visitors for events on Saturdays.

The works compound will use all the car parking space at the east end of the church meaning there is no vehicle access to the church whilst the works take place. Pedestrian access on Sunday will be via the south porch door and walkers will have to use the perimeter path to cross from the church hall to the lych gate.

St John’s Church, with its beautiful medieval design, has long stood as a cornerstone of the Bromsgrove community, and the restoration of the spire is an important step in ensuring its future as a heritage site for all to enjoy for years to come.

For further information on the Spire Appeal Project, or to learn how you can contribute, please visit www.stjohnsfriends.co.uk

by Jo Slade

The scaffolding takes form

The project begins

Oyez! Oyez! 40 years of spreading the word

Kevin Ward became Bromsgrove’s Town Crier and the Bellman to the Court Leet and Court Baron of the Manor of Bromsgrove in 1985.

This role was written in the stars somewhat, given that Kevin’s three-greats grandfather Jacob Wilson (1779-1879) was the last Town Crier of Birmingham. Jacob claimed that the position had been in the family for 350 years, so it comes as no surprise that Kevin would continue this tradition into the next century.

Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! is the town crier’s traditional call. Throughout the years Kevin has supported the town at all the major events – leading the Carnival procession, on St George’s Day, for the Christmas Lights switch-on across the district, at Remembrance Day services – the list goes on!

For the Court Leet he carries out his duties on Fair Day and for Spring and Autumn Courts on the morning of the event in the High Street, announcing to the people what is occurring on that day. For the Ale Tasting events, Kevin announces the arrival of the Bailiff and Court Officers to the pubs and oversees the proceedings, ensuring those in attendance “pay attention to the matters occurring in this Inn.”

Town criers date back to the Middle Ages, when they informed the populace of local happenings and news from the Crown. The duties of Bromsgrove’s town crier are listed in a Court Leet document of 1573. It states that the crier must attend church every Sunday and Holy Day; sweep the church; and on Tuesdays see that the market was conducted in an orderly fashion. He was also required to dig graves

and ring his bell when needed, at a charge of two pence each time.

The style of Kevin’s robes and regalia date from the 1770s when town crying was at its peak, a time before universal education and newspapers. The day coat is made in Bromsgrove’s colours of green and silver and the heavy cape is both windproof and waterproof – very important for an outdoor occupation. The coat is also extremely practical, with ‘poachers pockets’ and a special pocket for the scroll to be kept when not in use.

Over the years Kevin has entered, and been successful in, many town crier competitions, both nationally and internationally. He has been awarded best dressed crier several times, and in 2020 won the National Championship for the fourth time. As a mark of their appreciation for Kevin’s achievements, the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers will hold this year’s National Championship in Bromsgrove on 14th June.

In this landmark year, the Bromsgrove Society is delighted to welcome Kevin as the speaker at the 2025 Annual Lecture. In what is sure to be a lively presentation, Kevin will be talking about the history of town crying and looking back at some of the highlights from his last 40 years.

The 38th Bromsgrove Lecture will be held at Bromsgrove School on the evening of Tuesday, 8th April. Further details at www. bsoc.co.uk and www.bromsgroveschool.co.uk/boxoffice

by Mike Sharpe

Kevin’s three-greats grandfather Jacob Wilson

Celebrating 90 years of broadcasting

Bromsgrove and Droitwich are home to the Droitwich Transmitter (better known locally as the Wychbold Masts), which celebrated its 90th Birthday last year. In its heyday, it was of national importance, revolutionising radio communications in the UK. Over time it’s become a local landmark visible for miles around and held in great affection by thousands of people living in the area.

On 6th September 1934 the BBC made the first broadcast from what was advertised as ‘The World’s most modern long wave transmitter’. It was the height of innovation and marked the dawn of a new era for the BBC not only as a national broadcaster but also reaching beyond the UK’s shores.

There are four masts at the Station. Two masts are 700ft tall and the first erected for long wave transmission (the two smaller masts added later for medium wave transmission). They support a network of cables above ground, whilst beneath lies hundreds of metres of copper strip that collectively form the transmitter. At its peak it required 150kW of power broadcasting at 200kHz/1,500 metres.

In its heyday, the Station boasted an imposing two storey transmission building, built in Portland Stone with Art Deco styling and fitted out to a high quality with lots of polished chrome and glass on show. It also had a thriving social club for the workers and their families and even hosted a live broadcast of the Archers in 1952 from the social club stage.

With the BBC moving to entirely digital broadcasting

from 2025, the Station is due to be taken out of service in the near future. For now, it still serves an important function broadcasting Radio 5 Live and the shipping forecast on the Long Wave frequency for the BBC - as well as the signal to switch Economy 7 on and off!

You can discover more about the history of the Transmitter and sit at the original control desk for the station, at the Droitwich Heritage Centre. Their exhibition about the masts includes much of the original equipment used to operate the Station. Details available at www.droitwichheritagecentre.org.uk

The Bromsgrove Society chose the Transmitter for the subject of its 2024 annual lecture, given by Alastair Moseley. He called it ‘Broadcasting to the World - the history of the Wychbold Masts’ and you can still view a recording of it on the Society’s YouTube Channel. The entertaining lecture featured the Orchestra of St John performing the very first pieces of music broadcast from the Transmitter on 6th September 1934 and a clip from the GPO Film of the masts and control building being erected. The film is available to watch on the BFI website www.bfi.org.uk

Stoke Prior club launches fundraisinganniversary for HB9

This year, Stoke Prior Sports & Country Club marks a major milestone – ten years under the management of Mark Goddard and James Maycroft.

Since taking over in 2015, they have transformed the historic club into a thriving community hub, making it a go-to venue for events, entertainment, and social gatherings.

Originally built in the 1920s by ICI factory workers, the club has overcome many challenges, including a devastating fire in the 1980s. When Mark stepped in as manager in 2015, with James as his deputy, they immediately set about revitalising the venue with a welcoming approach and key improvements.

Over the past decade, they have introduced a full rebrand in 2020, added vibrant beach huts to the beer garden in 2021, and completed a full refurbishment of the lounge bar in 2023. The club hosts major annual events, including the popular Priorfest family festival in August and the spectacular Fireworks Night in November, which drew more than 2,200 attendees in 2024.

To celebrate its anniversary, the club will host ten special events over ten months, beginning with The Great Charity Quiz-Off on 21st March, a fundraising event for the Harry Bennett Foundation (HB9). This marks the start of a year-long campaign to honour the memory of Harry Bennett, a Bromsgrove teenager who tragically passed away from sepsis in 2020 aged just 16.

The HB9 Foundation was established to celebrate Harry’s love for sport and his iconic number nine jersey, his position as a centre forward in football and a scrum half in rugby. The foundation is dedicated to ensuring that individuals and teams can experience the physical, mental, and social benefits of sport, whether through participation, spectating, or community involvement.

“Supporting the HB9 in our anniversary year felt like the right choice,” said Mark Goddard.

“Harry’s story touched the lives of so many in our community, and we are proud to help carry on his legacy.”

To book a team for the quiz night call 01527 577876 or email info@stokeprior.club

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the club is planning an exciting lineup of events, including a galactic Star Wars Day in May, a fabulously flamboyant Rocky Horror Show night in June, and a family-friendly summer Garden Party.

To stay updated on all the 2025 events and fundraising initiatives, follow Stoke Prior Sports & Country Club at facebook.com/StokePriorClub

To donate to HB9, visit www.justgiving.com/page/ stokepriorclubhb9 or scan the QR code.

Managers Mark Goddard and James Maycroft

Harry Bennett (inset) - whose legacy lives on through HB9

Product with golden touch is game-changing

Gold has been used for medical purposes since ancient times. The earliest medical use of gold can be traced back to the Tiongkok in 2500 BC, and it was widely used by physicians and surgeons.

Pure gold was used to treat boils, smallpox, and skin ulcers and to remove mercury from skin and flesh. Some ancient sources also noted that gold drugs can cure joint disease and disease in the lungs and prescriptions that contained gold as a trace element cured measles and other diseases.

In medieval Europe, alchemists had numerous recipes for an elixir known as aurum potabile, many of which contained little gold. A gold cordial could be found in the new Pharmacopeias of the 17th century and was advocated by Nicholas Culpepper for the treatment of ailments, such as melancholy, fainting, and fevers. Later in the 19th century, a mixture of gold chloride and sodium chloride was used to treat syphilis.

In modern history, the use of gold in medicine began with the discovery in 1890 by German bacteriologist Robert Koch that gold compounds could curb the growth of the bacteria that causes tuberculosis. Gold therapy for TB was subsequently introduced in the 1920s. The suggestion that the tubercle bacillus was a causative agent for rheumatoid arthritis led to the use of gold therapy for this disease.

Gold therapy soon proved to be ineffective for tuberculosis but, after a 30-year debate, a clinical study sponsored by the Empire Rheumatism Council confirmed the effectiveness of gold compounds against rheumatoid arthritis. Since that time gold drugs have been used to treat a variety of other rheumatic diseases including psoriatic arthritis, a form of arthritis associated with psoriasis, juvenile arthritis, palindromic rheumatism and discoid lupus erythematosus.

On 1st March Redox Gold will be launched in the UK. The latest technology in cellular health, the product is non-toxic, safe for all ages and easy to use. It has also been researched by the University of Bath and is halal registered.

I have written a lot about Redox signalling over the past 12 months and this exciting new product is the next level generation of this science. In the countries

where it has already been launched the testimonials are coming thick and fast in relation to inflammatory situations.

Redox Gold is not absorbed by the skin. The gold particles are small enough to act as a catalyst but not small enough to be absorbed, therefore they are referred to as micro gold eliminating the risk of bio accumulation. The molecular gold is pure 100% 24 carat gold and Redox Gold contains a higher ratio of redox molecules. It is a different species, different pH and different viscosity so not to be compared to Renu28. The gold is referred to as a “noble metal” which means it does not undergo oxidation, therefore the gold remains stable.

For me, this product is a game changer. To purchase, visit https://shopasea.com/need4change or contact me at colette@need4change.com

Bite-sized Budapest is

Mini- breaks are the big thing in travel and we decided to follow this trend with a short stay in the Hungarian capital Budapest.

We jumped on the 8am flight from Birmingham on January 31 and landed back in the UK at 9.15pm on February 3, which meant we had three full days to explore this amazing city. With 10kg hand luggage, we were able to meet our transfer from the airport to our hotel. This was reasonable at £80 return for six, but you can get a bus for under two pounds.

We stayed at the Cotton House Hotel, perfectly situated near the opera house and serving a fabulous breakfast, all for £120 each for three nights. The hotel has 23 spacious rooms which reflect 1920s and 1930s style and are furnished with period furniture, while also meeting today’s requirements. The rooms are named after personalities including Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald and the doubles and twins have different types of bathrooms: shower, bathtub or jacuzzi.

After checking in, we walked around the city streets and sampled Hungarian goulash, which was hearty and delicious, with just a pinch of spice from the paprika. We also ate langos, fried savoury doughnuts with various fillings, on two occasions, sampling Greek style and cheese and garlic.

The following day we bought a 48 hour hop on hop off bus ticket with a River Danube cruise included for 82 euros for two people. This enabled

a feast for the senses

us to see Buda as well as Pest. The two distinct parts of Budapest are separated by the Danube; Buda is the western, hilly side with a more historic and residential feel, while Pest is the eastern, flat side with a livelier, urban atmosphere. On Saturday evening, we found an Italian bar which served great pizzas. The men watched Six Nations rugby on TV while the women chose to go to the light museum.

On Sunday we explored the Jewish area, taking in a walking tour and the synagogue, then we went to an English classical recital in the opera house. Tickets cost only £3. The Ruin bars not far from the opera house offer live music and are worth checking out.

Finally on Monday we experienced the thermal pools. We bought tickets which gave us fast track entrance to a lockable changing room from 7am until 3pm. Outside the temperature was five degrees but the water temperature was 34 degrees so I’m sure you can visualise the steam!

With beautiful blue skies for most of the weekend, we really enjoyed our short break. Highlights were the Heroes Square ice rink, the Hungarian parliament building, St Stephen’s Basilica and the synagogue which houses 3,000 people. Here we saw the tree of life with 6,000 leaves in remembrance to unnamed Jews who died in the Holocaust.

Budapest is a city full of feasts for the senses with wonderful architecture and culinary delights, all less than a three-hour flight from Birmingham.

By Jackie Kamara

Discovering the joy of music

Barnt Green Choral Society is a vibrant singing club which enables singers to discover the joy of learning and experiencing music at their own pace.

By tackling music, ranging from modern favourites to popular classics, members develop their own singing abilities and discover music ‘from the inside’. In this article three new members give an insight into why they joined the society.

“When I was at school, I really enjoyed practising at lunchtimes in the school choir. I then became very busy with marriage, kids and work, so singing was not a priority. I don’t read music or play a musical instrument, and I never considered joining a choir.

“Following the pandemic, I decided to make more space for my passions, and I remembered the joy of singing at school. A fellow parent at my daughter’s school suggested I should try Barnt Green Choral. Fitting in was much easier than I thought, and I have been made to feel very welcome. Also, being unable to read music has not been detrimental and now I can follow the notes. The music is beautiful, and I am thoroughly enjoying reigniting my passion for singing.”

Dina

“Until I joined Barnt Green Choral I had never sung in any disciplined way. I long had a hankering to sing but was not sure how to go about it. I saw an advert and thought I would give it a go. A key attraction was ‘no need to be able to read music’. I went to a rehearsal, and I was placed in the bass department. I was made welcome and my fellow basses guided me through the uncharted territory of the music sheets.

“I am now treading the path of reading music and have performed in concerts singing Bach cantatas and Mozart’s Requiem. A big help was the signposting provided to rehearsal recordings. This is invaluable because I can listen and join in the singing at home while reading the music.”

John

“I recently moved into the area and looked for a local choir to join. I have always sung since schooldays, and for about 30 years had great fun doing Gilbert & Sullivan shows before joining Coventry Philharmonic Society 16 years ago. I am now retired and am hoping to maintain active membership of both Barnt Green Choral and the Coventry choir.

“The wonderful thing about a choir is that only through working together do we succeed. I have always found singers to be very amiable and I look forward to happy music making at Barnt Green Choral and hope I can make a useful contribution.”

Jane

CELEBRATION

7.30pm Saturday 5 April 2025

North Bromsgrove High School School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1BA

Tickets £15 each are available at www.ticketsource.co.uk or from members or at the door Under 16s free Complimentary refreshments at interval with each ticket

Big names headline first festival honouring Rik

Comedy fans will soon be able to buy tickets for the initial shows to be released as part of the very first Rik Mayall Comedy Festival in Droitwich Spa.

The eight day event, which runs from 31st May to 7th June, is set to host well known comedians and friends of Mayall such as Greg Davies who acted alongside him in TV sitcom Man Down, Peter Richardson, founding member of The Comic Strip Presents, of which Mayall was an original cast member and Helen Lederer who worked with Mayall on shows such as The Young Ones, Happy Families and Bottom.

Other performers include Shaparak Khorsandi, Red Richardson, Paul Foot and Laura Smyth, who are booked to appear throughout the week at the Norbury Theatre.

The curated programme will also feature theatre, comedy for children and parents, panels and screenings. Free activities suitable for families will take place around the town during the weekends, and a pop-up museum will feature memorabilia, costumes and photography from Mayall’s career.

The festival will feature the world premiere of Serious About Comedy, a film produced in collaboration with the University of Birmingham’s Shakespeare Institute and the Birmingham Rep, with a panel after the screening including the director of West End productions of Dr Strangelove and Upstart Crow, Sean Foley.

Other venues across town are part of an open Fringe, and applications are open on the festival website to perform throughout the town. The Fringe will feature a variety of shows, with a large proportion of free and ‘pay what you want’ performances including stand-up, improv, theatre and live music. The festival team will be announcing more events in the run up to the festival.

Chris Broad, chair of the festival committee, said: “We are so excited to welcome these fantastic comedians, actors and writers to our debut festival. It’s a rare opportunity to see these big names in such an intimate

setting as the Norbury. Tickets are limited so we wanted to give our local community the opportunity to buy this initial release of tickets.”

The idea for a comedy festival came about through a discussion with Mayall’s family and local councillor Richard Morris who was keen to celebrate the iconic comedian and his connection to Droitwich Spa. The family suggested that a celebration in the town where we found his feet in entertainment was a fitting tribute to his legacy.

Richard said: “Growing up, Rik was regularly involved in productions at the Norbury Theatre and in many plays that his parents had written, and I believe this is where he found his love of performing. Supporting young people discovering acting and comedy is a key part of why we wanted to hold a festival, and the family has given us their blessing.”

The Bottom comedian known for his extrovert characters moved to Droitwich with his parents when he was three, taking part in plays at the Norbury throughout his childhood and teenage years. The festival aims to capture his distinct spirit by offering a diverse range of performances, screenings, and workshops suitable for both adults and young people, as well as family friendly events, in celebration of his remarkable life and career.

Tickets are available to Droitwich residents from 8th March and on general release from 9th March at www.rikmayallcomedyfestival.com

SMarvellous March

at

pringtime is upon us, and what better way to enjoy it than to come along to one of our fabulous upcoming shows at Artrix!

We kick off the month with Roy G Hemmings and his fabulous Motown Show on the 1st. Throughout March we also welcome a host of tribute acts to the stage, including Deep Purple (7th), I’m Every Whitney (21st), The Stadium Rock Experience (22nd), Really Hot Chilli Peppers (23rd) and The Carpenters Experience (28th).

We continue our run of CinemaLive productions with Jesus Chris Superstar on the 4th and A Night with Janis Joplin The Musical on the 17th.

Local funnyman ‘Fat Theo’ joins us for his live show Journeyman on 2nd March.

We also welcome back local theatre company All and Sundry, with their version of the Shakespeare classic The Tempest , running at Artrix from 12th-16th March.

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

Critics and Christie are spring cinema highlights

The spring season at The FeckenOdeon Cinema Society in Feckenham begins with The Critic (15) on Friday, 14th March at 8pm.

An extravagantly malicious theatre critic who strikes fear into the thespians of 1930s London, Jimmy Erskine (Ian McKellen) is known for many proclivities, but mostly for his savagery.

When his job at the Daily Chronicle is threatened, Jimmy’s response is as vicious as that of a cornered honey badger in a cravat. Gemma Arterton and Mark Strong are all collateral damage in his Machiavellian scheme. Wicked, compelling fun. (UK 2023)

The big screen offering on Saturday, 29th March at 7.30pm is A Haunting in Venice (12A).

Kenneth Branagh grows the famous moustache of Agatha Christie’s Belgian super-sleuth in a new adventure which he also directs.

In post-World War II Venice, Hercule Poirot,

now retired and living in self-imposed exile in the world’s most glamorous city, reluctantly attends a seance. But when one of the guests is murdered, it is up to the former detective to once again uncover the killer. The film is based on an original story by Ms Christie. (USA 2022)

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

Spring programme echoes with sounds of sophistication

There’s plenty for music lovers to enjoy at Feckenham Village Hall this month.

Out of The Blue Big Band will be appearing on Saturday, 1st March at 7pm, conducted by Jo James with vocalist Lee Hamblett.

This big band brings serious swing, plenty of sass, and just the right amount of brass. Think bold solos, toe-tapping rhythms, and enough swagger to make you forget your problems, or at least where you parked your car.

The Tim Kliphuis Trio come to Worcestershire on Sunday 23rd March at 7.30pm. Classically trained and widely regarded as “the successor to Stéphane Grappelli”, Dutch violinist Kliphuis breathes new life into existing styles with a high-energy blend of classical, gypsy jazz and folk music. His improvised sound is totally new and yet is steeped in tradition.

Tim’s trio’s electrifying performances have made them firm favourites on the festival scene including the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, North Sea and Edinburgh Jazz Festivals, Richard Strauss Festival and Fiddles on Fire.

He first made his name playing with the fiery European gypsy guitarists, then fine-tuned his personal style which has taken him to classical, jazz and folk venues around the world. Tim has shared the stage with legends Frankie Gavin, Richard Galliano, Fapy Lafertin and Les Paul and has been lauded for his musical genius by Nigel Kennedy.

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

They can belt out Sinatra and Buble classics and jazz standards one minute and dazzle you with Santana, Oasis, The Monkees and Elton John the next. Proceeds of this concert will go to The Sick Children’s Trust. More details about the band can be found at www.outofthebluejazz.com

This is a professional show coming to Feckenham as part of the Live & Local programme. It is supported by Arts Council England, Worcestershire County Council and Redditch Borough Council.

Epic entertainment

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rock classic JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR returns to its roots with this sensational performance filmed in the UK during the Live Arena Tour, and being screened on Sunday 2nd March 7.30pm. An incredible cast including Tim Minchin as Judas Iscariot, Melanie Chisholm as Mary Magdalene, Chris Moyles as King Herod and Ben Forster as Jesus Christ, perform hit songs including “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Gethsemane,” “Heaven on Their Minds,” “Everything’s Alright,” “King Herod’s Song” and “Superstar” in an exciting and contemporary interpretation.

A welcome return to our stage on 8th March, popular JACK GOODALL Independent singer/songwriter, Jack Goodall performs his own kind of music, contemporary yet inspired by an array of different artists. His music has received many credits, including from Guy Garvey, Elbow, BBC 6 Music. Supporting Jack Goodall will be DYSTOPIA GENTLY , an alternative Rock/ Experimental Indie Rock band from Birmingham.

Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, being screened on Sunday 9th March.

An afternoon of suspense on Wednesday 26th March when we screen the Academy Award winning film CONCLAVE . When Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with leading one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events, selecting a new Pope, he finds himself at the centre of a conspiracy that could shake the very foundation of the Catholic Church.

throughout March

Kalisha Amaris, Georgia Bradshaw, Choolwe Laina Muntanga and Danielle Steers will star as “The Joplinaires” in the Tony Award nominated hit A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN – THE MUSICAL , being screened on Wednesday 26th March 7.00pm.

This multi award-winning show captured recently at the Sadler’s Wells Peacock Theatre is an extraordinary musical journey paying homage to Janis Joplin and her biggest musical influences. Like a comet that burns far too brightly to last, Janis Joplin exploded onto the music scene in 1967 and, almost overnight, became the queen of rock & roll. The unmistakable voice, filled with raw emotion and tinged with Southern Comfort, made her a must-see headliner from Monterey to Woodstock. Fuelled by such unforgettable songs as “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart”, “Mercedes Benz”, “Cry Baby” and “Summertime”, a remarkable cast and breakout performances. A Night with Janis Joplin, written and directed by Randy Johnson, is a musical journey celebrating Janis and her biggest musical influences—icons like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, Nina Simone and Bessie Smith, who inspired one of rock ‘n roll’s greatest legends.

It will be party night when BRASS BEATZ , one of Worcestershire’s top bands, returns to our venue and takes to the stage on 29th March 8pm; last year was sellout, so grab your tickets now to avoid disappointment. The band will be playing a mix of Motown, Soul, Pop and Disco, from the last 6 decades, there will be something for all tastes; you’ll be singing along to some great hits and even strutting the dance floor.

Brass Beatz are an eight-piece outfit of experienced and talented local musicians and performers. The band has a full brass section and play with no backing tracks or gimmicks.

Based on the Academy Award® nominated film, BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL has won the hearts of millions since it opened in London’s West End in 2005. Set in a northern mining town, against the background of the 1984/85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community and changes his life forever. The original creative team behind the film, including writer Lee Hall (book & lyrics), director Stephen Daldry, and choreographer, Peter Darling, is joined by music legend Elton John (music) to produce a funny, uplifting and spectacular theatrical experience that will stay with you forever. Don’t miss this 5-sar production being screened on Sunday 30th March 7.00pm.

Bromsgrove Arts, the home of Fairfield Flicks and Fairfield Music, is located at Fairfield Village Hall (B61 9LZ). Free parking and a licenced bar. For information and advanced tickets for all events visit www.bromsgrovearts.org.uk

Gather friends and family for hall’s spring events

Hanbury Hall has a wide range of activities to suit all ages this springtime. Celebrate Mother’s Day and join card-making craft sessions in the Long Gallery on 29th and 30th March . Make a floral pop out card to give to a loved one to say thank you. Follow the step-by-step instructions and decorate your card with mum’s favourite flowers.

This Easter, treat the whole family to a world of adventure on an Easter trail . The trail takes place between 12th and 27th April from 9am to 4pm , with last entry at 3.30pm , so come along and explore the beautiful parkland. Prices are £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From chocolate egg.

Inspired by the wall paintings inside the hall by Sir James Thornhill, discover ten trail point activities based on art, colour and creativity. Paint a selfportrait, make music, and challenge your family and friends to wheelbarrow racing, hoopla, welly wanging, and much more.

Celebrate the Festival of Blossom from March to May with a range of activities including blossom bathing, crafts, talks, storytelling and yoga. Inspired by the Japanese tradition of ‘Hanami’, or flower viewing, the Festival of Blossom, created by the National Trust, invites people to take a moment and appreciate blooming blossoms that can be seen across the country.

Have a go at blossom bathing in the walled orchard, filled with 56 varieties of heritage apple trees adorned with pink-tinged blossoms. Help yourself to a yoga mat and take a deep breath as you rest

beneath the apple blossom at drop-in yoga sessions in the orchard on 17th and 24th April at 2pm.

In the Long Gallery during March, join a nature inspired storytelling session with friendly volunteers, and have a go at a free, drop-in blossom themed craft, including origami.

Enjoy the gardens as they burst into life this spring. Go for a stroll through the Formal Gardens and enjoy displays of daffodils in the peaceful Orchard and lining the path along Cedar Walk. Don’t miss the Parterre’s ribbon border with its colourful and fragrant array of fragrant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Elsewhere in the gardens, admire fruit trees heavy with pastel pink blossom, and look out for the first signs of our new lambs leaping in the parkland.

After exploring the outdoors, refuel in the Courtyard Kitchen restaurant or dog-friendly Stables Café and browse the second-hand bookshop. All your donations go towards looking after Hanbury Hall for future generations.

Visit the website to find out more and plan your visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ worcestershire-herefordshire/hanbury-hall

Say ‘bonjour’ to French guests

Host families are needed for French students and teachers who are visiting the Midlands for the ninth year running in March, April and May.

Due to their enjoyment of local attractions over the last few years, the students will be back to indulge in chocolate at Cadbury World, eat freshly cooked fish and chips, visit Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-uponAvon and find out about the region’s industrial heritage at The Black Country Living Museum. All students need is a comfortable bed at the end of a busy day and your hospitality will be financially rewarded.

This is a great way to exchange language, food and culture, though you do not need to speak French.

If you live within commuting distance of the daily meeting points in Bromsgrove and Longbridge and would like more information about hosting, please call or text Lisa Mistry on 07702 504495

The Genesis GV70 -

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

Ask the man or woman in the street what ‘Genesis’ is, and they will gaze back at you with suspicious eyes, ready to run the moment you flash an evangelical leaflet. Ask a proper individual and the reply will be short and sweet. Genesis is a luxury offshoot of the Hyundai and Kia empire and stands for a motoring brand like no other. Not so much a luxury essential as an essential luxury.

It’s the right sort of machine for the discerning man or woman who appreciates the unique marketing and customer care package that includes a concierge service to look after your every need during the five-year warranty period. It’s a whole new brand experience that reflects the Korean dedication to customer care.

The Genesis G70 Saloon, which retails from £41,470, is a stunning rival to Mercedes C Class and Jaguar’s XE and VW Arteon. This top specand a car for tomorrow if ever there was one.

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

a creation sensation

Once clear of traffic I was able to put the car through its paces. The Genesis nosed forward: a consummate performer with a four cylinder, 2.2 diesel putting 197 bhp through an eight speed automatic. There’s a choice of modes from ‘eco’ to ‘sport plus’ (in which you will need to hang onto your toupee).

Figures like that are a clear indication of a super abundance of what is technically known as ‘oomph!’ plus ‘grunt’. For the safety conscious reader, it must be pointed out that thanks to super powerful brakes, it stops too - on a sixpence. Fuel consumption? Well, I’m pleased to tell you that it is jolly low. A claimed 41.6 mpg to 43.5 mpg is modest. I tried tootling along in eco mode and got near 56 mpg. But if you think along those lines, you will miss the enjoyment on offer.

Some good news is that the rear wheel drive adds to the driving enjoyment. Handling and road holding are beyond reproach. Motoring writers often bore readers by talking of understeer, oversteer and ‘turn-in’ and ‘turn-out’. For me the new-fangled concept of ‘fun to drive’ has a more important contribution to make. Simply put, do you feel better for driving the car after a long trip? Frankly, my spring having long sprung, I exited gracefully, elated by the experience.

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

by Syd Taylor

by Chris Jepson

Sporting’s VIP guest hits the headlines

Bromsgrove Sporting made it three wins from three away matches in January, when they recorded one of their performances of the season to beat promotion contenders Kettering Town 2-1.

The Rouslers’ home form in 2025 has been something of a different story. In their first four games of the calendar year at the UK Electrical Stadium, a 1-1 draw to Hitchin Town was followed by 1-0 defeats against Leiston, Stamford and local rivals Alvechurch - the last of those matches being in the Worcestershire Senior Cup semi-final.

The scorer of Bromsgrove’s second goal in the impressive win over Kettering was striker Jamie Soule, who was netting on his Sporting debut having joined the club on loan from National League South side Weston-super-Mare.

The winner of the January Player of the Month award, as voted for by fans, was midfielder Reece King. The former Stourbridge star, who scored in the draw with Hitchin, marked the occasion at the Stamford fixture with his sponsor for the season, passionate supporter Kevin Baggott.

At the match against Leiston, there was a special guest in attendance in the form of Dutchman Vincent van der Lugt, who was celebrating his stag do. He was surprised by his friends, who had arranged a full mascot experience for him, which included dressing in a full Sporting kit, walking onto the pitch with the players and a game of ‘Chip the Bin’ at half time. The story certainly created a media buzz, featuring on BBC News Online, BBC Hereford & Worcester and BBC WM.

There are plenty of matches that need sponsoring before the season is over. If your business would be interested in benefiting from social media, website, and matchday programme exposure, email commercial@bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

The club has recently launched a new Football Development Programme, run in conjunction with Colmers School and Sixth Form College. This exciting new partnership for 16 to 19-yearolds will offer budding footballers the opportunity to join the Colmers Sixth Form and Bromsgrove Sporting Football Foundation team in September 2025. This collaboration will see the creation of a new team based at Colmers School, where students will have the chance to play competitive games every Wednesday and train with Bromsgrove Sporting’s UEFA-qualified coaches alongside their academic studies.

Sporting’s U21s side have continued to chalk up the wins, including a 2-1 victory at Coventry United U21s. In further good news, U21s defender Bo Morris featured in the first team’s matchday squad for February fixtures against Bedford Town and Alvechurch.

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

by Max Banner

January Player of the Month

Reece King heading a goal against Kettering

Photos

Dutch Stag Vincent