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July 2017 · Issue 219

THE REGION’S FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

A TASTE OF SUMMER!

Life’s a beach!

Summer holiday fashion

THE CLIMB BEGINS

s serious for The Kilimanjaro walk get

Tony and the team

wellington midsummer

fayre ROUND-UP AND PICTURES

A FASHION PARADE OF HOUSES

GREAT , DAYS OUT SUMMER FUNTO AND TICKETS BE WON!

by George Evans

Daisy Park Front Page Banner Advert W-C 19.06.17_Layout 1 22/06/2017 16:15 Page 1

new showhome now open at...

Help to Buy

Daisy Park, Daisy Bank Drive, Telford, TF2 9UL 3 bedroom homes available from £170,000

www.lioncourthomes.com 1 Front Page.indd 1

26/06/2017 14:50

Wrekin

News Published by: Plus Two Media Limited, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford TF1 1RY

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News PLEASE TAKE YOUR COPY

July 2017 · Issue 219

THE REGION’S FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

A TASTE OF SUMMER!

Life’s a beach!

Summer holiday fashion

THE CLIMB BEGINS

The Kilimanjaro walk gets serious for Tony and the team

wellington midsummer

fayre ROUND-UP AND PICTURES

GREAT DAYS OUT, SUMMER FUN AND TICKETS TO BE WON! Daisy Park Front Page

A FASHION PARADE OF HOUSES

by George Evans

Banner Advert W-C 19.06.17_Layout

1 22/06/2017 16:15 Page 1

new showhome now open at...

Daisy Park, Daisy Bank

3 bedroom homes available

www.lioncourthome

Help to Buy

Drive, Telford, TF2 9UL

from £170,000

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1 Front Page.indd 1

26/06/2017 14:50

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Contact our Advertising Sales Manager: Irene Winning 01952 522562 · irene@plus2media.co.uk Specialist writers: George Evans, Richard Worton, Professor Ralph Early, Sue Ladds, Eve Nicholls, Robert Hudson, and Syd Taylor Sports News: Lez Dean, Fraser Watson and James Shaw To subscribe to Wrekin News please call Tania Baylis on 01952 522562 Printed in Telford by PCP Every care is taken over the accuracy of material in Wrekin News but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Views and opinions of contributors, advertisers and interviewees to Wrekin News are not necessarily those of the publishers who cannot accept responsibility for such contributions. © Plus Two Media Limited 2017 - All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior consent of the publisher.

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02 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 2, 3 Welcome.indd 1

26/06/2017 14:56

Welcome Tel: 01952 522562 · james@plus2media.co.uk

H

Welcome to the July issue of Wrekin News!

www.suiteexchange.co.uk TELFORD’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF SOFAS AND SUITES

ELLO everyone and welcome to the July issue of your favourite monthly lifestyle magazine Wrekin News. We have another packed issue for you to enjoy and get involved with. Congratulations to the winners of our June competitions, who are as follows: BBC Good Food/Gardening Show winners were: Sue Bailey from Horsehay, Jennifer Bradley from Albrighton, Julie Shepherd from Allscott and Jenny Morris from Ironbridge. Winning a pair of tickets for County Superstars Experience at The Place is Lindsay Fordyce from Priorslee while off to see Shirley Valentine at the Theatre Severn is Valerie Fowles. Winner of the family tickets to the Cosford Food Festival is Kerry Swinton from Oakengates. Off to the Odeon is Andrew Richards from Little Dawley and Karen Bunning from Hadley. Jackie Hickman from Priorslee is the lucky winner of the Shrewsbury Flower Show family pass. John Lewis also from Priorslee is our lucky winner of the Shropshire Vintage Show tickets while the following readers all won tickets to the British Style Collective: Lindsay Fordyce from Priorslee, Kelly Price from Powys, Howard Lane from Wellington, Jacqueline Earl from Donnington, Nathan Picken from Oakengates and finally Sharon Oates from Telford.

Thank you to everyone who entered June’s competitions, we have another fantastic set of great day out passes to be won in this issue, so good luck to all who take the time to enter!

Please continue to support the magazine’s advertisers and tell them where you saw their advert. If you have a story to tell or want some help from our readers with a some local history then please do get in touch, the Wrekin News continues to be the number one local resource for printing your letters and memories!

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2, 3 Welcome.indd 2

26/06/2017 16:29

Lioncourt Homes feature in FT 1000 Europe’s fastest growing companies

Edna lays Legion Poppy wreath in Australia Wrekin News received this letter from Mr Malcolm Seeby who is the Secretary for the Dawley & District branch of the Royal British Legion.

O Dear Editor

Worcestershire based Lioncourt Homes has been identified as one of the fastest growing companies in Europe by the Financial Times. The FT1000 lists the 1,000 companies in Europe that have achieved the highest percentage growth in revenues between 2012 and 2015.

Colin Cole, Chief Executive of Lioncourt Homes commented: “It has been an outstanding year for Lioncourt Homes. This is a remarkable achievement and a great reflection of the hard work and commitment of our employees. We have again generated record profits whilst protecting our unique culture and retaining our HBF 5 Star Quality rating.”

The multi award winning company has been ranked as the 395th fastest growing business in Europe among all industries in over 30 countries.

This follows the company’s recent success of being placed 16th in the Sunday Times Profit Track 100, which identifies Lioncourt as one of the fastest growing businesses in the UK. This year the house builder received the maximum 5 Star Quality rating in the annual Home Builders Federation (HBF) customer satisfaction survey for the third consecutive year demonstrating their commitment to maintaining excellent standards of customer service.

Buckatree Hall Hotel

Tel: 01952 641 821

NE of our Royal British Legion Dawley Branch members, Edna Hayhurst was on holiday in Australia visiting her family and whilst there a few weeks ago got in touch with me to see if I could send her a Legion Poppy wreath with the message ‘from all the Dawley Branch Royal British Legion members Telford, United Kingdom’.

I made enquiries with our local County Poppy Organizer Mrs Jenny Robey and she checked the stores but we did not have any in stock at that moment in time so Jenny suggested that I get in touch with the poppy factory.

This I did and told them why I wanted the poppy wreath, they then sent me a wreath which I then forwarded to Edna Hayhurst in Australia in time for the Anzac Day Celebrations.

Edna has been a member of the Dawley Branch for many years and has always helped to raise money for the poppy appeal, I think she dreams poppy’s all the time, she is always looking at ways to raise money or spread the word about the Legion.

Edna’s daughter took some lovely photo’s in which you can see Edna laying the Wreath on the War Memorial monument at the Botanical Gardens, Kings Park, Perth, Australia in a beautiful dawn service.

She was also interviewed by the local television and newspaper reporters who saw that the poppy wreath that Edna was laying on the Anzac Memorial was different from all the others that were being laid and asked her where she was from and also where the poppy wreath was from.

Edna was going to pay for the wreath and the postage from the UK herself, but at a meeting of the committee it was decided that this was a very strong case for Legion in the community and unanimously agreed to pay out of branch funds.

The Honeypot Cafe is now officially open!

Situated at the foot of the Wrekin on the site of the old Forest Glen pavilion the Honeypot Cafe which is run by Karen Wood (pictured) of the Shropshire Wildlife Trust will be serving walkers and visitors to The Wrekin and The Ercall with hot and cold snacks and drinks.

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Mondays, from 10am-4pm. Proceeds will support the valuable work of the Shropshire Wildlife Trust, a registered charity, particularly around The Wrekin area.

The official opening was performed jointly

by Telford Mayor Cllr Stephen Reynolds and Wellington Mayor Cllr Denis Allen. Also present were Colin Preston CEO, of the Shropshire Wildlife Trust and Mark Rowe and Emma Williams from CapGemini who have been supporting the project.

04 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 4 News.indd 1

26/06/2017 15:20

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25/06/2017 10:19

10th Anniversa ry

wellington midsummer

fayre ROUND-UP & PICTURES BY ROB FRANCIS AND ROSS VICKERS

Bringing the streets to life!

Wellington’s annual Midsummer Fayre brought the streets to life on Saturday 10th June - the 10th anniversary of this modern incarnation of an event inspired by one first recorded in 1244.

Visitors came out in force to enjoy over 40 stalls which included food, craft and community stalls, music and dancing from a host of local performers and the biggest costumed procession in the event’s history.

Organiser Rob Francis said it was a fantastic day, with lots of positive feedback in the weeks since.

‘We’ve had some great comments

about how much there was to see and do on the day, and about the atmosphere the Fayre generated around the town. That means a lot to us - we want to give people a good day out, but we also want to show residents, visitors and businesses how brilliant this town can be when it puts on a show.’

The Fayre was organised by voluntary group Wellington H2A with help from All Saints Church and sponsorship from Wellington Town Council, Wellington Market Company and Parry Carver Solicitors.

Hadley and District Orpheu s Male Voice Choir

The costumed procession breaks into an impromptu dance in Market Square

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Ironmen and Severn Gilders dance at the Fayre

Joining the Mid-Summer Fayre cele brations once again were the Ironmen and Severn Gilders Morris dancers. With regular performances throughout the Telfo rd & Wrekin region the group are a popular attraction when perf orming.

The group hold practice sessions at the Telford Langley School, Dawley every Monday and new members are always welcome. Dancing with the Morris group is a great way to make new friends, get fit and above all have some fun.

For more information about the grou p you can look at their Facebook page (facebook.com/iron men.morris) or visit the group’s website: http://imsg.clubb uzz.co.uk

06 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 6 News.indd 1

26/06/2017 15:22

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25/06/2017 14:13

George

EVANS AH FASHION PARADE OF HOUSES

AVE YOU ever noticed that when you travel by train, while just idly looking out of the window, it’s easier to tell when the houses you are looking at were built, than where you are? This is because fashion trends in house building are often as strong as in clothes.

A view from the railway train can look quite different from the scene of the same place from a car on the main roads, which can be quite a contrast from side streets and alleys. Of course if you’re studying a really interesting place it’s better to search carefully on foot. That’s usually the finest way of observing any sort of landscape, though if you’re taking individual observations through a camera it is essential to look from overhead, preferably with your camera standing on thin air. Aren’t these drone cameras wonderful?

Back to the main subject of my kiloverb, I hope you are now convinced that there are trends in building the houses most of us live in and many of them are specific to styles that were invented to suit the way of life at the time. To start with there are trends associated with the growth of the mortgage movement in the

1920s and 1930s or if you like between the two disastrous World Wars.

Soldiers and other service personnel have a pronounced tendency to return (if they survive) with a strong determination to make themselves and their families a better life than the one they had before the horror and stupidity their own lives had been during the conflict. The building societies promoted mortgaged houses that

would be theirs in 30 or so years if they kept up the repayments. The steady growth of professional work; teaching, banking, medicine, veterinary medicine and so on increased the trend to mortgage house

The Wrekin’s favourite columnist!

8, 9 George Evans.indd 1

20/06/2017 13:32

buying, allowing some firms senior employees to join in.

There was a lot of argument between renters and buyers to begin with. Buyers were sure that the system of mortgages was the finest way of saving money and gave them a security they could not get from living in rented property. Renters thought those with mortgages had ‘a monkey on their roof’, meaning a commitment to pay a lot of money to the building society. They called new roads like Herbert Avenue ‘Snob’s Alley’ and Christine Avenue ‘Kippers and Curtains’, saying that the inhabitants had to eat cheap food to pay the mortgage. Of course the retaliation was to call Hollies Road ‘Little Hell’ and accuse Arleston people of keeping the coal in the bath because they didn’t know any better.

The designs of houses for sale were affected by all sorts of trends; for instance the growth of the domestic equipment industry led to smaller kitchens, the width of gateways depended on the current width of cars and the emancipation of women resulted in more individual designs.

Roofs with gable ends or hipped ends appeared in different estates, semi-detached and detached houses, bay and bow front windows together with various designs of porches all ensured that, while most of the houses were about 1,000 square feet in floor space their appearance could be varied without difficulty by the same teams of builders. Nearly all estate houses were built on the same basic format – kitchen at the back, two reception rooms, and three bedrooms. Despite this houses for sale, while kept very similar in matching pairs, were as individual as possible, people wanting to express their own individuality.

Different coloured bricks allowed for a variation in the style of houses and local brickworks did their best to access different coloured clay and there was always the option of using cheaper bricks which were not so attractive and covering them with plaster, which could also be several colours and also could be faced with chippings.

The cheaper bricks were usually used for lining and for inside cavity walls, and often for the sides and back outside walls. Breeze blocks made of the ashes from coal-fired power stations were seen to be as effective as bricks and not only cheaper to buy but also larger and lighter, so cheaper to handle.

Less consideration of individuality was taken when building council houses, though the standards of building were very similar. There were boom periods in council building, one of which I remember well locally, when the post-war expansion was going on and Telford was being built coinciding with Wellington Urban and Rural Councils, Fletcher Estates and several smaller private firms. WUDC built 2,000 houses and in 1950 there was a very long queue for them. Fletchers started expanding in Wellington in 1952; I bought their first post-war Wellington house, transferring from the council’s list where we had waited many years. TDC were building their huge estates soon afterwards. It cost them £3,000 to build a house similar to the one I’d just bought for £1,995; I cannot understand why the difference in price was so great, later on my house sold for £5,000. Telford was £2,000. Most people’s guess was the inefficiency of TDC. House prices and mortgage interest rates were at first controlled by buyers, lenders and builders but changed as governments and banks saw their chance. A few years ago a combination of rapid mergers of building societies, bank takeovers and international greedy individual operators with a mixture of sophisticated theft and gross incompetence almost destroyed the financial system. Certainly it brought great discredit on the finance and banking professions.

When I bought my present house I had to sign that I wouldn’t build a house worth less than £450 on the land. That was the price of some of my neighbours’ houses 100 years ago; they are now worth around £200,000, though that’s mainly due to the devaluation of money as well as improvements and extensions.

Surveying houses from a train is an interesting hobby especially for a commuter and I can thoroughly recommend it. You could become an expert.

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8, 9 George Evans.indd 2

20/06/2017 13:32

For those special occasions Parking Presence Card & Gift Shop opened it’s doors last October next to Escape Hair and Beauty in Bell Street, Wellington.

With both premises owned by Gary Raybould, who is now bringing his talents for style and creativity to this new venture.

Over two floors they stock a wide range of cards for all occasions from birthdays, weddings, christenings, to milestone ages and many many more!

Gary told us; “We have

increased our range of stock to include Yankee candles, jelly cats, Wrendale by Hannah, Me to You, East of India, Rufus rabbit and many more amazing gift ideas!

“Recently we have refitted our card section to be even more customer friendly.”

So why not pop in and see for yourself how Presence Card & Gift Shop can be your number one stop for all those special occasions and memorable life moments!

Win a Voucher

Presence Card & Gift Shop have joined with Wrekin News to offer an amazing prize givea-way to one lucky winner, a £35 voucher to spend in Escape Hair and Beauty! Valid for any treatment or service, terms and conditions apply, no cash alternative.

To enter the prize give-a-way all you have to do it send your name, address and daytime telephone number to: Tania Baylis, Escape Hair, Wrekin News, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire TF1 1RY or email your entry details to: tania@plus2media.co.uk - closing dates for entries is Wednesday 26 July 2017.

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machines go live in Wellington

Parking machines that issue free tickets in four short stay car parks in Wellington went live on Monday June 19.

The initiative to install the ten machines in the following car parks: the Civic & Leisure Centre car park (currently known as Swimming Pool West), Naylors Row, Walker Street (currently known as Swimming Pool East) and Victoria Road North has come about as a result of a partnership between Wellington Town Council, the Chamber of Commerce, local Traders and Telford & Wrekin Council.

The reason the machines have been installed is to try and stop short stay parking being abused by a number of motorists that leave their cars in spaces well over the three hour allocated time period. This means insufficient spaces are left for other local residents who just want to pop to the shops or perhaps visit Wellington Civic Centre.

Wellington town clerk Karen Roper, of Wellington Town Council, said: “The machines will help to ensure that our car parks are used in the most efficient way that will provide a welcome boost to the town centre’s economy because it will result in more customers being able to visit Wellington town centre.

“I want to re-emphasise there is no desire and absolutely no intention at all to start charging for parking in Wellington town centre despite the rumours following the installation of the ticket machines. The machines are purely there to help better manage our car parks and free up spaces for use.”

Hi Tania

Find us on

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e to say a Just a short lin u for the huge thank yo C. We shall E N tickets for the e experience really enjoy th e!

Great magazin s rd ga Kind re Jenny Morris

10 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 10 News.indd 1

25/06/2017 16:32

..

YOUR WELLINGTON NEWSLETTER UPDATE

Wellington Safer Neighbourhood Team

The latest news and events from Wellington Town Council

W

E HAVE recently carried out surveys with people who visit, live and work in the Town. The Police, Wellington Town Council and Telford & Wrekin Council, and our other local partner agencies are working together to make your community safer in Wellington Town.

You Said...

Drinking Alcohol in a public place Drunk and abusive People in the street & Parking WE DID: The Wellington Safer Neighbourhood Team have liaised with the people who we believe are responsible where we have signposted and involved other agencies in relation to offering support to them. Warning letters have been issued in respect of taking responsibility for their behaviour has been given and appropriate action taken.

As a result of concerns raised by local residents we have taken action to tackle anti-social behaviour in this area.

We will continue to carry out regular patrols and work with those that live here, schools and the local council to identify and address any concerns you may have.

Anti-social behaviour is anything which causes harassment, alarm or distress. It can take many forms and there are a number of ways we can put a stop to it. Parking machines have been installed which are free but they are to monitor that people are only using car parks for three hours. The Wellington working group will be carrying

out an audit to see if we can find any more available parking spaces.

The Wellington Local Policing Team will carry out patrols to monitor on street parking and those causing unnecessary obstructions and parking on double yellow lines.

ABOUT YOUR TEAM . . .

Safer Neighbourhood Teams work with local people and partners to identify, tackle and solve issues that matter to the community where you live. Our aim is to restore your confidence in the police and partner agencies and to provide reassurance to improve your quality of life in the area you live and work.

Making neighbourhoods safer by cutting day to day crime and anti-social behaviour is at the heart of keeping people in West Mercia safe. Thanks to an investment in mobile tablet style computers, these will enable officers to spend more time on patrol on the street and in neighbourhoods.

Officers will continue to come to people when they need them and provide a high quality service however you contact us - in person (on the street, at community bases and at partners and communities together [PACT] meetings), on the phone or online.

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH Telephone: 101 to talk to your local SNT or report a crime Email: wellingtonwest.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk Email: Wellingtonnorth.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk Website: www.westmercia.police.uk Facebook & Twitter:@wellingtonCops Only call 999 in an emergency, when a crime is in progress or life is in danger.

Sounds in the Square LIVE MUSIC TO ENTERTAIN SHOPPERS ON SATURDAYS ACROSS JULY & AUGUST Organised by H2A volunteers and funded with support fom Wellington Town Council Dates available in the Summer Guide or on www.madeinwellington.co.uk

www.wellington-shropshire.gov.uk 10 Wellington Town Council.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:15

ADVERTORIAL

News from your hospitals

FRIENDS OF

WELLINGTON S TAT I O N

Bringing you updates from The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), which runs the Princess Royal Hospital (PRH) in Telford and the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital (RSH):

Trust praised for care and respect in National Inpatient Survey SaTH has been praised for providing great care with respect and dignity in the latest survey of adult inpatients.

The Trust improved in almost half of the areas covered by the 2016 Survey of Adult Inpatients, carried out by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The results follow positive results in the 2015 survey, which saw a 75% improvement on the 2014 survey, including 19 statistically “significant” improvements.

The Trust saw improvements in 30 of the 61 comparable questions answered by patients in the latest survey.

SaTH performed statistically significantly better than in the previous 2015 results in three areas: Patients being bothered by noise at night from hospital staff; the cleanliness of hospital rooms and wards; and the cleanliness of the toilets and bathrooms which patients used.

Of the 18 areas which saw a fall in patient satisfaction, only two were considered statistically “significant”. SaTH performed worse than average in one area in which patients did not feel they received enough support from staff to help with their recovery or to manage their condition after leaving hospital. The other areas of the questionnaire saw no change, or did not have a comparison in 2015.

Praise for care on PRH Ward Ward 10 (Orthopaedic) at PRH has been named among the best in the country for delivering care to patients with a fractured hip.

The 2016 National Hip Fracture Database annual report places the ward in the top third of hospital wards across the UK for the delivery of care to people

unfortunately sustaining a fractured neck of femur.

The report is commissioned by the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership and managed by the Clinical Effectiveness and Evaluation Unit of the Royal College of Physicians as part of the Falls and Fragility

Fracture Audit Programme.

Sister Helen Williams, a Trauma Nurse on Ward 10, said: “We are delighted to be recognised in the top third. It is a huge achievement and one we are very proud of as it means we are achieving excellent results and getting patients home as quickly as possible.”

Record number of volunteers join new group to bring life and commerce to Wellington Station Friends of Wellington Station formed a month ago with a record number of volunteers joining at the first meeting making it at inception, one of the biggest groups in the area. The group is made up of local residents and business owners and has ambitions to connect with local colleges and plans are afoot to host a Community Day in Autumn.

The group now have an adopted Constitution, a Twitter account, are members of the official body ACORP (Association of Community Rail Partnerships). They are also recently equipped with all health and safety requirements and high viz jackets and are bursting with enthusiasm to begin painting, planting, renovating and welcoming people to Wellington!

The group’s first visit to the station took place on Monday 19 June and they are now busy drawing up a ‘to do’ list that will include improving the approach to the station, developing a small nature reserve with bird boxes, installing platform planters with scented and edible herbs, creating spaces for public art and they have also started discussions with the property agents about the use of empty buildings on both platforms.

The station buildings are owned by Network Rail and leased to the franchise holder, currently London Midland (owned by the Govia Group) and did you know that 615,000 people use Wellington Station annually!

The station was built in 1848/49 and celebrates it’s 170th anniversary next year.

The ‘Friends’ groups are welcomed and supported and are increasingly effective in bringing life and commerce to the station buildings, platforms and environs.

Anyone wishing to join the group can email: fay@ wellingtontowncentre.com to make contact.

Charity Fun Day to take place on 22 July SaTH will hold its annual Charity Fun Day on 22 July in aid of the Trust’s Living Well With Dementia Appeal.

The Charity Fun Day – sponsored by Radfield Home Care - will start at 8am when hundreds of people will cycle, run or walk to RSH as part of the annual hospital-to-hospital fundraiser. This will be followed by a Summer Fete at The Shropshire Conference Centre at RSH from 12noon until 4.30pm.

The day will start at 8am when the first cyclists will leave RSH on a 50-mile circular bike ride. They will be followed by cyclists taking part in a 35-mile bike ride from the Princess Royal Hospital (PRH) in Telford to RSH and an 18 mile bike run from PRH to RSH. Runners and walkers are able to enter distances of 18 miles (PRH to RSH), nine miles (starting in Upton Magna) and a circular 5K walk starting from RSH. The Summer Fete at RSH will begin at 12pm and finish at 4.30pm with an array of health workshops, crafts and produce stalls, a tombola and lots more family-friendly entertainment.

The cost to enter the Butterfly Effect fundraiser is

Jacob Chandler Wellington Artist in Residence, Fay Easton Wellington Town Centre Business, Andrew Hurd Wrekin College, Robert Hubbleday Wrekin Arts and Sarah Chard Wellington Resident

£10, all of which goes to Living Well With Dementia Appeal. To register for the Butterfly Effect charity multi-distance event visit: www.shropshirecharityevents.co.uk Entry to the Summer Fete is free, although car parking charges do apply. Anyone wishing to sponsor the event or have a stall should register via the Shropshire Charity Events website above or email: members@sath.nhs.uk

Thank You! Dear Editor, I would be very grateful if you would publish the letter below; I would like to thank all my staff and customers for their kind gifts, flowers, letters and cards to celebrate my retirement from Denise’s Salon after 50 years of hairdressing. I am very touched by everyone’s generosity and kind wishes and will miss you all. Also thank you to my family for their support over the years.

Kind regards Denise Martin, (Denise’s Salon)

12 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 12 News NHS.indd 1

26/06/2017 15:28

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13 Adverts.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:41

The adventures of Jo, Gary, Stuart, Jesse and Tony as they scale Mount Kilimanjaro / PART II (continued from issue 218, June 2017)

THE CLIMB BEGINS written by Anthony Nicholls

Previously in chapter one: ● Unlike the Mont Blanc trip I have booked with a great company called Popote. ● We were warned to carry essentials on board the planes as luggage is often lost or mislaid on this journey and sure enough Stuart’s hold luggage didn’t make it to Kilimanjaro airport with us! ● Stuart and I were joined by Stuart’s brother Gary and partner Jo. ● Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain any of us have ever attempted. At 5,895 metres, or 19,341 feet above sea level it is the height of Mont Blanc plus the height of Mount Snowdon on top.

14 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 14, 16, 17 Tony Nicholls.indd 1

A

FRICA TIME suits me very well, I faff quite a lot checking and rechecking I have everything I could possibly need for every eventuality, so even I was ready for the Popote minibus when it arrived an hour late. It felt like a scene of an expedition from a film to me. The minibus gleaming in the strong mid-morning sunshine despite the thin veneer of dust, the roof covered in large waterproof duffle bags swiftly joined by ours and lashed down by a man also on the roof, big smiles and firm handshakes, dusty bumpy roads. We stopped at shops on the way for

some “fire water” which was branded ethanol in a small plastic bag from what I could tell.

Some of the guides used it as a quick livener.

Uncharacteristically we chose not to try any, respect the altitude and all that! We continued the bus journey now on a main road before stopping at a crossroads in the middle of nowhere, a phone call was made someone jumped out and fetched from another vehicle Stuart’s suitcase that didn’t land with us! Sabino the boss of the company had organised one of his men to take the baggage barcodes and retrieve it when it finally arrived at Kilimanjaro airport from Nairobi. Stuart Continued on page 16 >

26/06/2017 12:52

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25/06/2017 14:11

22/06/2017 15:54

> Continued from page 14

was chuffed to bits and we were all very impressed. These guys got things done with the minimum of fuss and maximum results, our confidence in them was bolstered, and reinforced everything I’d researched about them. Phew I was relieved I’d picked Popote.

Kilimanjaro National Park covers over 468 square miles and the existence of the volcanic mountains amongst the largely arid surrounding plains gives rise to many industries apart from tourism. The only source of the gemstone Tanzanite was discovered here in 1967, and there are hundreds of tea, coffee, and banana plantations We’d been driven through a wide apron of this rich agricultural land surrounding the mountains nourished by the flow of water and nutrients from them, arriving at Machame gate on the edge of lush rainforest 1,800 metres or 5,906 feet above sea level, already nearly the height of Snowdon and two Wrekins. At least the mini-bus brought us this far!

For the last eleven years you’ve only been allowed through the park gates with an affiliated guide. There are legitimate safety and environmental reasons for this policy but the government are making a fortune out of it and annoyingly re-investing the bare minimum. This understandably grieves a

lot of people. The park formalities and bag checks took over an hour, during which we enjoyed a generous packed lunch and were introduced to Jessie Priest, a 29-year-old American lad from Colorado who joined our group at the last minute.

Our chosen route ‘Machame’ due to it’s high success rate and acclimatisation profile starts south west of the summit and heads north then east under the south side of the mountain until we make our final attack from Barafu (Ice) camp south east of Uhuru Peak.

We will then descend to Barafu camp and almost due south on the Mweka route losing altitude very quickly straight toward the main gate at Mweka just north of Moshi and our lovely hotel. That’s the plan anyway.

We began at mid-day with a very gentle undulating walk underneath the tessellating leafy canopy of the rain forest which began at the main gate area; it was beautiful and memorable. Due to it’s isolation from other flora and fauna the National parks here surrounding and including the chain of volcanic mountains has a unique biodiversity; Darwin would’ve loved it. One of our three guides Oh-Mar told me how the beautiful flower Impatiens Kilimanjari was one such specimen. Occasionally Oh-Mar burst in to native song, and a couple of times a day would shout “Rah!” To which we replied the same.

After three rounds of that he would growl “Nye Nye” this was echoed by us and would be repeated three or four times depending on the mood. It was simple fun and motivating but definitely a group thing.

Oh-Mar later revealed that the “Nye Nye” part was a playful dig at the guide Raymond meaning he was unmarried and currently a bachelor.

It was all in good humour and the chanting definitely raised spirits on some of the more lengthy sections of the walk. Raymond smiled quietly to himself. We all chatted a lot getting to know each other, knowing full well the guides were taking careful notice of how much water and food we were taking on

Notes about Mount Kilimanjaro and our trip

and enquiring what experience of trekking and mountaineering we all had. I say we were walking slowly and we were by most standards, however we were passing other groups and I don’t recall anyone passing us other than the impressively fit porters who carry up to 30kg or 66lbs each! Every porter’s load is weighed at the gatehouse which is one of the good aspects of the park governance. There was one American adrenalin junkie type that I nicknamed Chad, who was loud and full of gung-ho expletives but apart from him everyone seemed like minded and more peaceful.

The other word we heard a lot was ‘Pole pole’ pronounced like holy. This translates to ‘slowly, slowly’ which is the best way to achieve summit success especially on mountains of significant altitude. The first day of walking time was a

According to ultimatekilimanjaro.com ‘Every year, approximately 1,000 people are evacuated off the mountain, and around 10 deaths are reported. The actual number of deaths is believed to be two to three times higher.’ This is largely due to altitude sickness but also weather plays it’s part as guides take people all year round rainy season included. We didn’t tell our mum’s this before we went and I’ll probably ink it out of my copy!

I’ve included many facts and figures metric and imperial for all those like me who want to know these things. Apologies if you think there are too many but I would want to know if I was reading it. amsl = above mean sea level.

25% of attempts fail Sabino’s parents don’t know what he does for a living because to them the Gods live on the mountain and it is sacred. When it snows on the summit they feel the Gods are happy with them.

16 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 14, 16, 17 Tony Nicholls.indd 2

26/06/2017 13:34

The adventures of Jo, Gary, Stuart, Jesse and Tony as they scale Mount Kilimanjaro / PART II (continued from issue 218, June 2017)

suggested five hours which we achieved in four hours 45 minutes including a stop for food. The gradient was very gentle rising just over 1,000 metres or 3,300 feet over eleven kilometres or 6.8 miles so the tendency is to step out a bit, however this would be a mistake to be paid for on subsequent days. You’ll need more energy and resilience each day, and exercising unnecessarily to any extent could be the difference in reaching the summit or not in a few days time.

During day one we came across a porter working for Popote who was hobbling off the mountain with an knee injury. Dickson one of our three guides escorted him safely off the mountain and to medical attention.

Arriving at camp was always a pleasure. We were congratulated

by our guides and paused for photos at the information board which had our current elevation of 2,835 metres painted on, then registered our arrival at the gatehouse, and were shown to our tent which the team of porters had lugged with our baggage ahead of us and already set up before our arrival. On top of this the chef ‘stomach engineer’ as he was known, was halfway through cooking our dinner! We were brought warm water to wash with, and every meal (three-a-day) was amazing.

Evening meals were served in a bright yellow mess tent, and we often had soup for starters followed by main courses that were ‘Wrekin Giant sized’, all made with fresh ingredients bought from the towns and villages on the way. They included beef, chicken, lamb, rice, chips, fruit and vegetables. They were washed down with mugs of tea, coffee and or hot chocolate, and followed by fruit and a briefing for the following day.

The terrain of day one was easy but day two was to be significantly steeper. We would rise 915 metres or 3,002 feet in five kilometres or 3.1 miles; less than half the distance covered on day one.

This is still not a huge task but the effort required to do anything steadily increases with the diminishing air pressure and becomes noticeable to some at around 3,000 metres or 9,843 feet.

We were tired fairly early, my mum would say it’s all the fresh air. The excitement of being somewhere new, meeting new people, the walk, the warm sunshine, the big meal, had all taken their toll and I remember feeling like a tired child at the end of a warm summer day. And so to bed after day one in our mountain four season tents, but this day’s excitement was far from over! I have camped since I was twelve, having been given a second hand ridge tent by my then boss Larry Cole who had a shop

with Brian Aston on the Brooklands, Wellington. I have slept rough in fields in temperatures of minus 10 but I have never till now had what could be described as a three season sleeping bag let alone a four season one which is part of the required kit for the trip. This was the moment of truth, I had recommended to Stuart we buy a particular sleeping bag for the trip based on reviews I had read. One guy had slept on Snowdon’s summit in one without a tent in minus 16 degrees Celsius and had to take clothes off! Another in his car all winter with similar glowing references amongst dozens of others. They were large when packed down but not over heavy and were only £63. Could they be as good as they all said?

Night time near the equator as many of you will know or have experienced gets dark early, quickly and is much colder than the daytime, this is heightened by the altitude so we were counting on a good performance. We made several childlike noises of pleasure in the first minutes of climbing into our new cocoons. I suggested to Stuart that we test them before we left England but it would have spoilt our surprise. I have no recollection of being in the womb but this is surely the nearest feeling I have had to what it must be like. It was absolute magic, unbelievably comfy and like a comparative sensory deprivation experience. I giggled and wriggled with glee in what felt like the only place I wanted to be at that moment, like a warm hug from a dear friend you never expected to see again. I could go on because I haven’t yet reached anywhere near an exaggeration. Best 63-quid I ever spent! (they’re now only £59 because it’s summer).

The company supplied a four season roll mat which was a good quality thick foam and we were sleeping like babies in no time.

One highly recommended piece of kit was a ‘pee bottle’ to avoid leaving the tent at night. It drops to well below zero and there is no lighting other than the moon and the stars. We nearly didn’t take one but we thought one between us may be wise.

The toilets were a deep, well littered cess pitt sporting a square of porcelain with a hole in the middle. It was a real treat and a rarity if you found one where everyone had not missed the hole.

Hundreds of people depositing in the same few holes all year round. You wouldn’t be able or want to get your mobile phone back if you dropped it!

The stench had people wretching before they got in and for some time afterwards. Just after dark several people could be seen disappearing into the bushes. Perhaps they were stargazing because they were so stunningly bright, I recall thinking the best diamonds in Africa are in the sky and free of charge to all who can see. Yes, I was out there in the bushes too, stargazing of course!

Continued in the next issue . . .

www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 17

14, 16, 17 Tony Nicholls.indd 3

26/06/2017 13:34

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As part of their fundraising this year when nearly £25,000 was raised The Plough have donated £1,000 to the Exotic Zoo to sponsor the new Meerkat enclosure.

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19 News.indd 1

25/06/2017 15:05

Centenary Commemoration the Great War

PASSCHENDAELE The needless rush to victory WELLINGTON WWI cvr

Local historian Chris Owen continues his Great War in Shropshire series for the Wrekin News, marking the local and national centenary commemorations of this campaign which was one of the bloodiest of the Great War and highlights its effects on towns and communities across Shropshire focusing on Ironbridge in this issue.

T

HIS MONTH of July marks the centenary of the commencement of the single most devastating campaign ever fought in the third full year of a brutal and futile conflict known at the time as the Great War. Historians now refer to it by its ordinal name: WW1 but it was given the grandiose title: Great - because it was supposed to be the war to end all wars. Much has been written about this infamous campaign fought at a time for the allies when a new impetus was needed; a sea change from the trenchbound warfare fought for three long years on the Western Front across France and Belgium.

The scent of victory drove Field Marshall Earl Sir Douglas Haig, the CIC of the BEF in France, to press the war cabinet to strike at the Germans holding this troublesome salient topped by the Passchendaele Ridge which the allies had been fighting over since the war began in 1914. His master plan was to cut a swathe through the Germans so as to reach the NW Belgian coastal ports and remove the capability of the U boats operating there to harass allied shipping.

Haig was not well-liked especially by the then Prime Minister, David Lloyd George who saw him, as a profligate waster of men and materials subsequent to the disasters of The Somme campaign (1916) and the debacle of the Nivelle offensive in April 1917.

Lloyd George and Field Marshal Foch of the allied command, argued that such a massive

campaign was a waste of men and resources for very little potential gain at this point in the war. The Americans had newly arrived to back up the allied war effort and consolidation of objectives gained was now the priority ahead of building up allied field strength to such an extent that the Germans could be slowly and steadily driven back.

Haig was convinced they were worn down by over-commitment of men and resources and that a successful attack punching first through the Hindenburg Line and taking Passchendaele would force them to reconsider their position in the light of inevitable subjugation and capitulation. The attack front stretched across four miles of terrain with the Messines ridge at the centre of a gently sloping landscape which had been so reduced by shelling over the years that it resembled a lunar landscape.

Where once stood lush forest and farmland only mud and festering water-filled bomb craters prevailed. And where the land could not drain properly from the particularly wet autumn weather.

The operation was planned to last six weeks but lasted for 103 gruelling days. Haig was vilified for prolonging the campaign for so long which again raised questions as to his competence as BEF (British Expeditionary Force) Commander.

There are no official exact figures for the

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town in endured by a small market courage and sacrifice ding ton and its surroun graphic account of the The Great War. Welling war effort. rural Shropshire, during: er in its support of the so much in terms of manpow of the loss of life – only not community loyally gave terms, in it paid a heavy price ill-health caused by this m Discover how ultimately long-ter by ed wiped out or destroy but a generation simply to end all Wars’. was labelled as the ‘War their relatives cataclysmic event which men – as recounted by l stories of local serving lar battles Read detailed persona the backdrop of the particu memory and set against ignorance and wishing to preserve their contrasted with the died, – as and mostly sadly effort on the front line in which they fought war British the commanding arrogance of the officers all. officer ins in Whiteh directed by the mandar and schools which offered ing story of local colleges force.

Read about the fascinat material to the fighting officer of ution and direct contrib training courses and their ting effect on local families about the war’s devasta includes local Most poignantly, read newspaper reports and which – as mentioned in local businesses in Wellington was to become an event ts of living through what the UK – people’s personal accoun e of the town and also structur social the changed typical in terms radically and permanently present day. Although affects us even up to the s casualty the legacy of which still UK, Wellington and district’ towns spread across the phe. of commitment as other nation to survive catastro of stoicism and the determi honour owed to their numbers reveal a story dead and the debt of war its of rance ials.

Read how the rememb many dedicated war memor town’s the in ed evidenc which was ultimate sacrifice was of its biggest memorials e scandal attached to one moration of Discover the local wartim ion ceremony and comme act of the official dedicat farming community. revealed by the simple to affect this largely rural disaster single arguably the biggest an IT Graduate the society of authors; e writer and member of n who is covering Chris Owen is a freelanc He is a local war historia and son in Shropshire. sing in WW2 and its and lives with his wife Pen & Sword series. Speciali this for ire to this equally Shropsh other towns in written a logical prequel the Great War, he has origins stemming from in the local area and the devastating conflict. years also piqued his interest 20 for ious town. ton industr Welling dent Living near once an indepen Great War on what was devastating legacy of the

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campaign but the Allies (including Commonwealth forces) estimate is 325,000 with 260,000 German casualties either dead wounded or missing.

Local families in the Ironbridge area suffered greatly with over 107 casualties across the entire war.

20 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 20, 21 Chris Owen.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:10

B Ju

107 local casualties

CLEANTEX LINEN AND WORKWEAR RENTAL

Local families in the Ironbridge area suffered greatly with over 107 casualties across the entire war.

Here are some of those killed in the infamous Passchendaele Campaign Ironbridge area Casualties . . .

26094 Private William BAUGH

Third Battle of Ypr es July 31st - 1 0th November 1917

6th Battalion KSLI - Son of Mr & Mrs W. Baugh, The Lodge, Ironbridge Died from wounds 18th August 1917 rec’d at Ypres (Passchendaele. Shot by sniper as member of Lewis Gun team. Age 19 – worked at the Severn Foundry, Coalbrookdale. Buried at Dozinghem Military Cemetery Wesvleteren, Belgium

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763146 Pte. John Henry BENBOW 28th Battalion County of London Artists Rifles Born and lived at Coalport. KIA in Flanders 30th October 1917 (Passchendaele)

30399 Private Reginald BURTON 1st Battalion, King’s Own Royal Lancaster Regiment. Son of Mr E. Burton, Station Hotel, Ironbridge; brother to Harry, Killed in action in Flanders,12th October 1917.

Commemorated on Tyne cot Memorial, Passchendaele, Belgium.

Age 35

25510 Private William Edward CORNES

5th Battalion KSLI, Son of Mr WE Cornes, The Lloyds, Ironbridge. Died of wounds in France, 11th September 1917, Age 19. Was formerly employed at the Coalbrookdale works and joined KSLI in November 1916.

Wellington in the Great War Read further about the fascinating exploits of local serving men in Chris Owen’s upcoming book about: ‘Ironbridge in the Great War’ (In the same series: Your towns and cities in the Great War – published by Pen & Sword Book Ltd). For local readers Chris has also written: ‘Wellington in the Great War’ in the same series – look out for it at all good book stores.

Win a signed copy For a chance to win a signed copy of Chris’s upcoming book please post your name, address and daytime telephone number to: Tania Baylis, Ironbridge in the Great War, Wrekin News, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford TF1 1RY or email your entry details to: tania@plus2media.co.uk - First name drawn from the hat is the winner. Usual Wrekin News competition rules apply.

Closing date for entries is Wednesday 26 July 2017.

T: 01952 820810 62 High Street Newport TF10 7AQ

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25/06/2017 10:10

Wellington History Group

Where was 18½ Holyhead Road?

F

by Allan Frost

OLK delving into their family trees are puzzled when they see 18½ Holyhead Road under the ‘When and Where Born’ column on birth on Birth Certificates, and under ‘When and Where Died’ on Death Certificates. It’s not an address which features in town Directories, so where was it and why is it shown as if it were a ‘proper’ address?

Certificates showing this address seem to start sometime after the late 1870s and continue to the late 1940s. They are relatively rare, and it was quite by chance that our magazine editor Allan Frost first came across it when researching the death of one of his ancestors. Until shortly before the death in 1924, this relative lived in Tan Bank, Wellington. He died shortly afterwards at Ketley Bank, where he also owned property.

However, whereas newspaper reports say he died there, his Death Certificate says his place of death was 18½ Holyhead Road. Information from family members confirmed his body was removed to the Union Workhouse in Holyhead Road until the funeral because the refrigeration system in the Mortuary was better than none in the cramped homes of his relatives.

The most recent example came from

NEXT PUBLIC TALK

The Foresters Wellington History Group’s next free-toattend public talk in Wellington library will be on September 20th at 7:30pm when Neil Clarke will speak about The Foresters, their lives and connections with the area over the centuries.

someone whose relative Philip was born here in 1943. After receiving further information, it transpired that Philip’s mother was taken to the Infirmary at the Union Workhouse where she gave birth to Philip. It looks as though it was thought better for her to benefit from the medical facilities at the Workhouse rather than suffer potential complications at her usual residence.

Problem solved: 18½ Holyhead Road was the ‘unofficial official’ address for children born or folk who died, for whatever reason, in the Workhouse Infirmary, or who died elsewhere and whose body, again for personal reasons, was stored in the Workhouse Mortuary prior to the funeral and was, whether rightly or wrongly, shown on Death Certificates.

The Union Workhouse, which opened in 1875, was absorbed into the newly created National Health Service in 1948, whereupon it became the Wrekin Hospital, the premises of which are now occupied by The Morris Care Centre.

Get in touch Please visit our web site at https:// wellingtonhistorygroup.wordpress.com/ where you’ll find a variety of free-todownload magazines, books, etc., under the Publications tab.

If you have any comments or queries, please email chairman Geoff Harrison ghdl19768@blueyonder.co.uk

Unravelling the story of Samuel Small

W

E’RE all very excited to report that Heritage Lottery Fund now supports the Wellington Remembers 1914-1918 project!

This will make a huge difference to us, and we want to say a big thank you, to the awards team, and especially to National Lottery players, who have made this possible.

❂

Wellington Remembers 1914-1918 One of the great things about volunteering with the Wellington Remembers team, is the contact that we have with people in Wellington, who we might not otherwise meet. A few weeks ago I was coming out of the All Saints church yard, when I realized that a couple were gazing at the Lych Gate memorial, and clearly looking for a name.

Naturally, I couldn’t help but stop and ask, just in case they had information about one of the men. It turns out they were looking for a relative of the man, who they understood to have died in 1917. Unfortunately they were looking for a fairly common name – Jones. What they were able to tell me was that he was a conscientious objector who had become a stretcher-bearer, and that his widow later re-married.

There are five men named Jones on the WW1 tablet, so it seemed sensible to take a telephone number and go back home to do a bit of sleuthing.

A few minutes on the giant spreadsheet confirmed that none of the five Mr Jones’ were stretcherbearers, so it seemed unlikely that the man we were looking for was remembered on the memorial.

I rang to deliver the bad news, and was pleased to hear that when Kevin and his wife went home, they had checked their information, and had muddled the names – it was a Mr Small who had died, and his widow had later married Mr Jones.

This made an instant difference, and we were soon able to unravel the story.

In 1911 when the census was taken, 25 year old Samuel Small, a clay miner, was living at Dawley Bank with his wife, Bertha, and two young sons.

Fortunately his service records survived, and show that he enlisted at Netley on 2 September 1914.

By that time he was employed as a brick maker, and his attestation papers state that he enlisted for a fixed term of six months, into the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC), as part of the Home Hospitals Reserve. This meant that he would serve in the UK only for that period of time.

Just four weeks into the war, he had volunteered his services, a full two years before conscription was introduced for married men. Samuel was discharged at the end of his engagement, and had earned 181 days of service on his record. The address and marriage details on his attestation papers confirm that he is the right man.

It seems then, that this man hadn’t been a conscientious objector, but was eager to serve his country from the early days of the war. Moreover, he returned to the army after that initial service,

22 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 22, 23, 24 Letters.indd 1

25/06/2017 13:21

Detective Corner Do you have a Thomas in your family tree?

Did he serve in WW1?

Do you think any of the following might be your ancestor? ● ● ● ● ●

W Thomas King’s Shropshire Light Infantry Edward Thomas Royal Welsh Fusiliers Alexander Thomas Machine Gun Corps A Thomas Machine Gun Corps B Thomas Possibly King’s Shropshire Light Infantry

Please get in touch. We would like to hear his story and we may be able to tell you more. and saw service on the western front.

Samuel’s Medal Index Card confirms that he earned the 1915 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal, and that he had served in France from 11 August 1915. This was the date when 142 Field Ambulance left England for France. His unit joined 3 Division on 26 August. He was killed in action on 24 July 1916, still serving in the RAMC, with 142 Field Ambulance.

Though we can’t know for certain, it is quite possible that the family story about him being a stretcher-bearer was accurate – certainly there were many stretcher-bearers in the RAMC. Conscientious objectors – men who objected to fighting on moral grounds were in most cases given civilian jobs or non-fighting roles at the front.

Whether or not Samuel was a conscientious objector – he had volunteered to serve, at home, and in the field of battle long before conscription was introduced for married men in the 2nd Military Service Act, which was passed in May 1916.

In the months that he served on the battlefield, Samuel must have dealt with all manner of wounded men, and suffered the same privations as those men who served in the front line. His war gratuity payment of £4/10 was sent to Bertha in September 1919.

Bertha went on to marry again, and the family story continued.

Though we weren’t able to identify Samuel on the Lych Gate Memorial, we now know that he is buried at the Bernafay Wood British Cemetery, Montauban.

There could be many families in the Wellington area who wonder if their relative is named on a memorial – please do make contact, if you think that you may be one of these families. We really want to put as much accurate detail as possible into the stories about these men, and this is a real opportunity to confirm, or amend some of those family stories that have passed down the generations.

Contact Wellington Remembers: email: wellingtonremembers@outlook.com Call/Text: 07944 435978

Mike enjoy’s a browse through Wrekin News Dear Editor, Once again enjoying a browse through ‘Wrekin News’. An item in George’s piece on local towns caught my eye. He referred to ‘Naylor’s Court’ as being an old part of Wellington, and I recall reading somewhere that Victoria Avenue was once known as ‘Nailers’ Row’ on account of there being a cottage industry of nail-makers there, way back. George refers to Naylor’s Court now being a car park. Is that the car park opposite Victoria Avenue? If so, it all seems to fit.

I enjoyed Wendy Palin’s piece, ‘Wellington Remembers.’ It was a well-crafted and well-written account. Wendy, in her early youth, was one of my pupils at Wrockwardine Wood junior school, so perhaps my brilliant (!) teaching had some effect!

Yours Sincerely

Mike Clay

Family Ties Genealogy can help you trace your ancestors who served in the Great War The centenary of the first world war has generated a lot interest in the soldiers who served. One soldier that we researched was one Phillip Sant, who died 16 August 1918, not long before the armistice.

Phillip was a member of the First Fourth Battalion, King’s Shropshire Light Regiment, after transferring from the Herefordshire Regiment.

Unfortunately his service records formed part of the burnt portion of soldiers’ records which were bombed during the second world war, leaving only 40 percent of the original number.

Despite such setbacks we were able to find some information, like medal records, which showed Phillip gained the Victory Medal, and the British Medal.

Commonwealth War Graves

hold records of next of kin, and inscriptions; on Phillip’s stone the inscription reads: ‘Thy way, not mine, O lord. Never forgotten by his loving wife’.

Phillip Sant is buried in Sandpits Cemetery, Fouquereuil, Nord-Pasde-Calais, France and is detailed by the Commonwealth War Graves as the youngest son of William and Ann Sant, of 9, Pepper St., Middlewich; husband of Alice Sant, of New Farm, Tetton Bridge, near Middlewich, Cheshire, whom he married in 1917. Phillip served from 1914 until his death.

Registers of Soldiers effects detail how much money was owed to a soldier and who it was left to, in this case his wife; his will, which we found, left war bonds to his mother, and his savings to Alice Sant.

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Family Ties Genealogy (DRS), 13 Victoria Road, Shifnal, TF11 8AF

www.familytiesgenealogy.co.uk www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 23

22, 23, 24 Letters.indd 2

25/06/2017 13:22

Old Wellingtonians named

My Story

W

by Rona Harris

Mr Millington from Wellington visited our offices recently to add some names to the picture of the Old Wellingtonians team that we published in our May issue.

The picture was sent to us by our old friend Dave Barnett who appears on the team along with his brother Dennis. Dave could just about name all of the players but couldn’t place the names, Cotton, Duffett and Heighway.

Mr Millington is on the picture standing to the right of the goalkeeper on the back row. He can’t recall playing many games for the team in fact that game may have been his only appearance in Old Wellingtonian colours!

He believes the goalkeeper was called Hutchinson and was know to

his team-mates as ‘H’ and worked at Sankeys.

Mr Millington thinks that Ron Heighway is in the middle of the front row and that Cotton was the player on the back row third in from the left.

Mr Millington also suggested that Jim Duffett was the sports master at the Grammar School and was on the photograph.

The only query Mr Millington has was regarding the date of the picture. He was sure that it couldn’t be 1954 as Dave suggested, because he was serving in the armed forces at the time. He suggests that the picture was taken in early 1953 or late 1952... Over to you Dave, can you shed anymore light on when the picture may have been taken?

Make your home life easier We offer a range of household tasks to make your home life easier. If you think we can help you, a family member or neighbour ask us for a quote.

We are flexible and available as long as you need us for at least an hour a week.

ELL! it’s good to note that the weather is so much warmer, and very good for me too.

As I sit here for quite a long time, I got to thinking that there is more to life than this, so I began to look at the ‘job’ situation, and in a volunteering capacity.

So after a few telephone calls to various local numbers, it is all a good move for me there around four jobs that do interest me very much.

So all that sorted, I have been completing various application forms with a view to eventually aquiring one of these positions locally, I do get very bored at home, and everyone that I contacted was extremely helpful, and made me feel that I can still do something useful and to suit me.

My youngest sister died a couple of years ago and we used to chat on the phone every day and meet twice a week for shopping and coffee, so I do miss that greatly but I am still going into Wellington to do my shopping, in fact I would not go anywhere else, I do love Wellington, and the shop assistants are all very pleasant and helpful, and the stallholders in the market are great and friendly also.

Now when I do feel like just sitting comfortably I think of how lucky I really am in so many different ways.

Needless to say! the knitting I told you about in my last month’s story has not progressed at all, Oh yes!

I think I told you that I have purchased the wool so now I must make some sort of an effort with it.

I was thinking about my past working life which began many, many years ago (I think it is almost sixty five to seventy really), and for a lot of them I was in full-time employment in a clerical capacity in the Civil Service which was good and I did enjoy it, as most of that time I did spend working with the public etc., As some of you already know I divorced my first husband a long time ago now, we had one son in that marriage, and I did bring him up alone, so I needed a reliable job too.

Needless to say my son Ian is a lovely lad, has a good job, and I am immensly proud of him in every way, so I do believe that the motto of my past years has always been to get on with whatever happens now in my life and appreciate the fact that I still have the will to work and do something useful in the community.

In previous magazines I have told you about my sister Irene who is now living in Kent, well, I sent four copies of the ‘Wrekin News’ for her to read and she loves them, and most of the articles in them are very interesting to her too, and she does spend a lot of her time reading now.

Well now, time has caught up with me, but I will let you know about ‘the job’.

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As I am writing about my two sisters I am hoping to send a photograph of the three of us taken in 1947 on holiday in Rhyl. (Irene aged 23, me aged 17 and Sheila aged 14.

I will write more next time.

Rona

24 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 22, 23, 24 Letters.indd 3

26/06/2017 15:24

Ticket JUST

THE

GREAT DAYS OUT, SUMMER FUN AND TICKETS TO BE WON!

A TASTE OF SUMMER!

Get ready for the Vikings!

A

RLEY Arboretum has a summer full of activities. The Vikings are coming for the weekend of the 1st & 2nd July 2017. The Raudr Vagr Viking group will be setting up a Viking village demonstrating how the Vikings lived, with live demonstrations of cooking, games, skills and pastimes. With a combat arena showing how they went into battle, with the opportunity for the children to participate.

During the school summer holidays, we are open every day from 11am to 5pm. Our theme

this year is “summer safari”, with new animal trails being added to our usual Woodland Creature trail for preschool children and the fairy and dinosaur trails for the older children. We will also be having pony rides and mini zoos on selected weeks, see our website, www.arleyarboretum.co.uk to see what will be going on each week. Our very popular Forest school will also be returning and can be prebooked through the website as well.

On 30th July, Madcap theatre group will be performing an evening outdoor theatre show of the Bard’s “As you like it” and on 28th August will

be returning for a family friendly “Wind in the Willows” show.

At Arley Arboretum and Gardens, we have something for every age, with unique trees giving shade on these hot summer days, a playground and maze to explore too. Arley Arboretum is a great value day out.

Our tea room has had a makeover and is now licensed. So, you can now enjoy a nice cold glass of beer or wine along with the hot and cold drinks and food, or you can bring your own picnic. You can even bring the dog too. www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 25

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26/06/2017 15:25

Diary July 2017

8 July Plant Hunters Fair At Battlefield 1403, Shrewsbury.

FREE entry 01939 210905 8 July Sounds in The Square Shrewsbury Morris Dancers 11:30am till 12:30pm Market Square 8 July The Wrekin Relay Challenge 2pm, The Wrekin 8 July Telford Stamp and Coin Fair, Belmont Hall, Wellington.

10am till 3pm FREE entry 01299 211737 9 July Lions Day On Wheels A display of all things wheeled.

Craft stalls, amusements, hot food, tea room, Arena events all day.

12pm-4pm Bowring Park, Wellington FREE entry 9, 16 and 23 July Stafford Common CAR BOOT sale, Stone Road, Stafford 07831192116 15 July Sounds in The Square: Two Blank Pages 11am till 1pm Market Square 15 July Christ Church Festival of The Voice: Concert 5 Shifnal Male Voice Choir 7:30pm Start, Christ Church Rd £7.50

15 and 16 July Brass Band Festival Coalbrookdale Museum of iron Saturday - 10am till 5:30pm Sunday - 10am till 6:30pm 15 and 16 July Large Model Aircraft Rally at RAF Cosford, tickets from: www. largemodelassociation.com In advance £8, one the gate £10, children U16 Free www.rafmuseum.org/cosford 16 July Jazz Club 90 Albrighton Sports and Social Club Mike Owen’s Scarlette Serenaders with Sararh Spencer 1pm till 3pm Admission £5 - 07947668750 21 July Lunchtime Organ Concert: John Bowen of Christ Church, Shelton with Oxon 12:30 till 1pm Wellington Methodist Church 22 July Sounds in The Square: 3 in a Bar Jazz Band and Artisan Market : Summer Jazz Picnic 11am till 1pm Market Square, Wellington.

28 July (evening event) Blists Hill Victorian Town - 1930s Supper and Song Musical evening 6.30pm - 10pm Tickets £25 must be pre-booked call Nikki Birch on 01785 252247 more details 01952 433424 or visit: www. ironbridge.org.uk

To include your event in our Diary for June please contact Tania tania@plus2media.co.uk or call 01952 522562

Telford Stamp, Card and Coin Fair

Telford Stamp, Card and Coin Fair is on Saturday 14th October 2017 at Belmont Hall, Wellington centre, Telford, TF1 1LU from 10am to 3pm, free entry with a good range of stalls, free valuations, buy and sell, home made refreshments. Free adjacent car park, train station close by, bus via Telford Centre to nearby local bus station. Further details from Bob Pilkington, Tel: 01299 211737 or email: sbpilkington02@outlook.com. (Tables may be available)

JULY 2017

FRIDAY 30TH JUNE - SUNDAY 2ND JULY

DEGENERATION SKA & PUNK FESTIVAL

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Ticket JUST

THE

To advertise in

JUST THE TICKET Please call Irene on 01952 522562 or email

irene@plus2media.co.uk

Furnace, fire and steam inspired events at Blists Hill Victorian Town

V

ISIT Blists Hill Victorian Town, near Ironbridge in Shropshire over the summer school holidays between 26th July and 3rd September and join in a variety of fun furnace, fire and steam inspired activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ironbridge Gorge Museums.

See various steam machines in action on different days of the week; get up close and personal to discover how they work and learn more about the importance of steam in Victorian times. The Town’s replica of Trevithick’s Coalbrookdale 1802 locomotive and the newly restored Winding Engine will be amongst the machines in steam on different days of the week.

Making a guest appearance until Friday, 25th August is narrow gauge steam locomotive, Number 14, owned by the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway. The locomotive was one of a fleet of thirty-two 2-6-2 tank engines made for export to the Sierra Leone Railway by the Hunslett Engine Company of Leeds.

Although it was built in 1954, the design dates back to 1898 and so is in keeping with the late Victorian setting of Blists Hill. It narrowly escaped scrapping in 1975 when the railway closed but was repatriated from West Africa by the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway where it entered traffic in 1978. The locomotive is currently touring the country as a static exhibit before returning to the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway for major repairs.

A highlight every Wednesday morning will be the chance to see the furnace ablaze in the Town’s Iron

Summer school holiday s 26th July 3rd Septembe r 2017

Foundry and to watch a spectacular iron casting demonstration.

Younger visitors can follow a fun self-led family trail around Blists Hill to discover more about the role played by furnaces, fire and steam in the Industrial Revolution as well as take part in lessons in the Victorian School House. They can also enjoy seeing the magnificent heavy horses, pigs and chickens and have a go on the Victorian Fairground. Whatever their age everyone is invited to join in the lunchtime and afternoon sing-a-longs in the New Inn.

WIN A ANNUAL FAMILY PASSPORT TICKET To help you get set for the school summer holidays Wrekin News has teamed up with Ironbridge Gorge Museums to offer one lucky reader the chance to win an Annual Family Passport Ticket in our grand prize-give-a-way. All you have to do to enter is send you name, address and daytime telephone number to: Tania Baylis, Family Passport Ticket, Wrekin News, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire TF1 1RY. Or email your entry details to:

tania@plus2media.co.uk - closing date for entries is Wednesday 26 July 2017. Good luck! ** Our standard terms and conditions apply which can be found on the Wrekin News website. The terms and conditions which apply to the use of the Ironbridge Gorge Museums Annual Family Passport Ticket can be found by visiting this website: http:// www.ironbridge.org.uk/plan-yourvisit/ticket-prices/

Information for visitors Blists Hill Victorian Town is open from 10am until 4.30pm. A great value Annual Passport Ticket allowing unlimited entry into all ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums costs £25 per adult, £20 for seniors, £15 for children (16 years or under), £68 for a family of two adults and all their children and £50 for a family with one adult; under 5s free (terms and conditions apply); Passports can also be bought online in advance saving 10% and individual entry tickets are available at each museum. Activities will vary from day-to-day and some additional costs will apply.

For further information, call the Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre on 01952 433 424 or visit www. ironbridge.org.uk. The Gorge is easily reached via the M54 motorway exiting at Telford junction 4 or 6.

26 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 25, 26, 27, 28 and 30 Out and About.indd 2

26/06/2017 11:42

IRONBRIDGE.ORG.UK WHERE WILL YOUR VISIT TAKE YOU?

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www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 27

25, 26, 27, 28 and 30 Out and About.indd 3

25/06/2017 23:34

The most famous of all kings!

Arddangosfa Exhibition

ARTHUR:

Arthur a

Cymru a’r Chwedl Arthuraidd / Wales and the Arthurian Legend

G

22 Mehefin – 16 Rhagfyr 2017 / 22 July – 16 December 2017

Chwedloniaeth Cymru

ELLIR dadlau mai llwyddiant masnachol mwyaf y Cymry yw allforio’r Chwedl Arthuraidd. Cydnabyddir mai Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru yw un o brif ganolfannau’r byd ar gyfer astudiaethau Arthuraidd, a hynny ar sail ei chasgliadau digymar - yn llawysgrifau ac yn llyfrau printiedig - o’r cyfnod canoloesol hyd heddiw. Cyflwyna’r arddangosfa hon rai o brif drysorau Arthuraidd y Llyfrgell, o ymddangosiadau cynharaf yr arwr enigmatig hwn yn llenyddiaeth Cymru hyd at ei lwyddiannau ar y llwyfan Ewropeaidd trwy gyfrwng Hanes Brenhinoedd y Brytaniaid Sieffre o Fynwy yn y ddeuddegfed ganrif. Ar ddalennau cyfrolau Cymraeg, Lladin, Ffrangeg, Cernyweg a Saesneg, dangosir sut y bu i gymeriad distadl ei gefndir ddal dychymyg cyfandir cyfan, a chyrraedd yr entrychion fel un o’r enwocaf o frenhinoedd y byd.

Arthur and Welsh Mythology

22.07.17 – 16.12.17 Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru The National Library of Wales Aberystwyth

T

Mynediad am Ddim Free Admission www.llgc.org.uk #gwladgwlad #findyourepic

NLW_Advert.indd 1

HE Arthurian Legend is arguably Wales’ most successful international export. The National Library of Wales has long been a thriving centre for Arthurian studies, based on its unrivalled collections of source materials - both manuscript and printed - from the medieval period to the present. This exhibition show-cases some of the Library’s greatest Arthurian treasures, from the enigmatic warrior’s earliest appearances in Welsh literature to his kingly ‘conquests’ of an European stage by means of Geoffrey of Monmouth’s twelfth-century History of the Kings of Britain. Presenting materials in Welsh, Latin, French, Cornish and English, this exhibition demonstrates how a character of humble origins captured the imaginations of a continent, and became the most famous of all kings.

21/06/2017 12:18:23

28 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 25, 26, 27, 28 and 30 Out and About.indd 4

25/06/2017 23:45

Tribute Dinners All are £24.50 per person inclusive of a 3-course dinner with

Events Calendar MAY - DECEMBER 2017

BUCKATREE HALL HOTEL

coffee and live entertainment

EVENT CALENDAR 2017 2016

Wednesday 6th December

ABBA June

Saturday 16th Motown Magic Tribute Stop! In The Name of Love’ –there’s a ‘Heat Wave’ of an evening for you! Your evening starts with a two course evening meal followed by tribute and dancing with our in-house disco until midnight. £17.50pp

JANUARY

Thursday 14th December

Sunday 18th Elvis Presley v Elton John Fathers Day Look after the old man this father’s day and treat him to Sunday lunch! Dads get Thursday 21st December a free pint of beer or glass of house wine Rod Stewart v David Bowie from the Buckatree. £15.95pp

October

Friday 30th Tribute Dinner Special Overnight Party Package Free birthday cake forYour the evening starts with a two course check-in from 2.00pm, birthday guest (must be evening Includes meal followed by the finest pre-booked and minimum party party night accommodation English-breakfast and a numbers of 10 apply).tribute towith thefull‘King’ Elvis Presley box of chocolates in your room followed by dancing until 11.30pm.

Hen Party? (based on 2 people sharing a £17.50pp Brides go free on parties of 20 or double or twin bedded standard Elvis Celebrating a Birthday?

Friday 6th All Inclusive Party Night Rock ‘n’ Roll 50’s, Flower Power 60’s, Funky 70’s, Electric 80’s, Alternative 90’s and Naughty 00’s. Enjoy a two course evening meal and an all inclusive bar with all these magical decades rolled into one night of nostalgic musical heaven from our disco. £34.95pp

FEBRUARY

more (entrance to the party night room – upgrades available at an additional only, not accommodation). cost).

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APRIL

BUCKATREE JulyHALL HOTEL 01952 641 821 | sales@buckatreehallhotel.com The Wrekin, Wellington, Saturday 15thTelford, Shropshire, TF6Tribute 5AL Doris Day Dinner

Your evening starts with a two course evening meal followed by the finest tribute to Doris Day as we take you on a “sentimental journey” followed by dancing until 11.30pm. £17.50pp Friday 21st End of School Disco Celebrate the end of term and let your hair down! Dress to impress and party the night away in style. A three course evening meal with a glass of house wine and disco entertainment is included. £19.95pp Friday 28th Elton John Tribute Dinner Are you ready for love? Your evening starts with a two course evening meal followed by the finest tribute to Sir Elton John followed by dancing until 11.30pm. £17.50pp

MARCH

Celebrating a Birthday?

Free birthday cake for the birthday guest (must be pre-booked and minimum party numbers of 10)

BUCKATREE HALL HOTEL August

01952 641 821 | sales@buckatreehallhotel.com

Saturday 26th Abba Mania Tribute Dinner Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! - Great food and the chance to sing your heart out.

Your evening starts with a two course evening meal followed by tribute and dancing with our in-house disco until midnight. £17.50pp

September

Friday 20th West End Musicals Tribute Your evening starts with a two course evening meal followed by a fabulous tribute to the classic hits of the West End. £17.50pp

November

Celebrating a Birthday?

Special Overnight Party Friday 8th Package Free birthday cake for the Gin Tasting with be Includes check-in from Moonshine & Fuggles birthday guest (mustSunday 12th pre-booked and minimum 2.00pm, party night Join us for a fun and informative Remembrance Lunch party numbers of 10 apply). accommodation with full evening as we sample a selection of To commemorate the contribution of English breakfast and a box Hen Party? gins accompanied by a selection of British and Commonwealth military and of chocolates in your room Tapas. In-between each tasting willgobe servicemen and women in thesharing two World Brides free on parties (based on 2 people a short quiz. Money raised of on20 the night Wars and later confl icts we are offering or more (entrance a double or twin bedded will go towards our nominated charity FREE Sunday lunch to our veterans. to the party –night only,a not standard room – upgrades Homestart. £25.00pp accommodation). T&C’s apply. available at an additional cost).

Gift Vouchers

Hen Party?

Looking for the perfect gift?

FROM £15.00 single Gift Vouchers supplement £34.50 Personalised vouchers Brides go free on parties of 20 or Looking for the perfect gift?

PER PERSON more (entrance to the party nightfor all events at Personalised vouchers available for all available the applies. only, not accommodation). hotel plus much more. events at the hotel plus much more.

To book any of our events call:01952 641821 email:sales@buckatreehallhotel.com visit:www.buckatreehallhotel.com

Buckatree Hall Hotel FP.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:33

Ticket JUST

THE

THREE FANTASTIC CHANCES TO WIN FAMILY TICKETS!

Explore, enjoy and step back in time at the SVR!

E

XCITING steam trains, fantastic events and plenty to explore – the Severn Valley Railway has everything you need for a great family day out this summer.

More than 250,000 visitors each year step on board one of the SVR’s heritage steam locomotives for an exciting journey of adventure through the stunning Severn Valley, from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth.

Hop on and off to explore any of the SVR’s six historic stations, find your perfect picnic spot or head to The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley, packed with interactive exhibits. Meet the engine that collided with a camel, learn about how the SVR works, sort the mail in our travelling post office and get

hands-on with interactive displays. The Flag & Whistle Food Stop restaurant is perfect for refuelling and the outdoor, railway-themed play area is great for kids to burn-off some energy.

If full-size steam trains weren’t enough, take a ride on the Coalyard Miniature Railway at Kidderminster or marvel at the Paddock Garden miniature railway at Hampton Loade – in operation on selected dates, weather permitting.

For an extra-special visit, check the SVR’s packed calendar of events, including Steam Galas, 1940s Weekends, Ghost Trains and Santa Steam Specials.

For information, call 01562 757900 or see www.svr.co.uk.

WIN A FAMILY FREEDOM OF THE LINE TICKET! Wrekin News has teamed up with the Severn Valley Railway to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a Family Freedom of the Line ticket for a day out on the SVR - valid for up to two adults and up to four children. Including unlimited travel along the line on the day plus free entry to The Engine House Visitor Centre! Terms & condition apply which include: must be used within 12 months of issue. May not be valid during Special Events days - see www.svr.co.uk for details. To enter the prize give-a-way all you need to do is send your name, address and daytime telephone number to: Tania Baylis, SVR, Wrekin News, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford TF1 1RY or email your entry details to: tania@plus2media.co.uk - closing date for entries is Wednesday 26th July 2017.

Drayton Manor Park offers fun for all the family Families looking for a fun-filled day out in 2017 should look no further than the award winning Drayton Manor Park in Staffordshire, and you could win a ticket for you and three others to visit!

The family owned and run theme park is home to Europe’s only Thomas Land™ which has this year seen the arrival of the new ride, James and the Red Balloon. Based on the beloved Thomas & Friends™ character, the ride follows James and his cheeky antics with a red hot air balloon.

Families can experience the magic of Sodor like never before as they fly up, up and away in their very own balloon. James joins a host of other rides and attractions based on the popular series.

The park also boasts some of the biggest rides around including the adrenaline-inducing Apocalypse and the stomach-

churning Maelstrom.

If all that wasn’t enough, the attraction boasts a 15 acre zoo, home to a wide collection of creatures great and small including a pair of baby tamarins!

To book tickets, or for more information about the park, visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk or call 0844 472 1950.

Reduced prices are available for tickets bought in advance.

For regular updates and news about Drayton Manor Park join it on Twitter www.twitter. com/Draytonmanor and Facebook www.facebook.com/ DraytonManorPark

WIN

TICKETS

Wrekin News has teamed up with Drayton Manor Park to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a family pass. All you have to do to enter is send your name, address and daytime telephone number to: Tania Baylis, Drayton Manor, Wrekin News, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford TF1 1RY or email your entry to: tania@ plus2media.co.uk, terms and conditions apply, closing date for entries is Wednesday 26 July 2017.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Winners may visit the park on a date of their choosing from 30th March 2017 to 26th October 2017, subject to availability. Selected dates may apply, please check website for opening times and dates. Each ticket is for four people. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion, including Family, Advanced and Website tickets. Drayton Manor Theme Park, Nr Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3TW. Tel: 0844 472 1960. www.draytonmanor.co.uk.

THE ULTIMATE SUMMER DAY OUT! Shrewsbury Flower Show is the worlds’ longest running independent flower show. Nearly every year since 1875, the only exception being during both world wars, the Shrewsbury Flower Show has been held in the heart of Shrewsbury’s town centre. On the 11th and 12th of August the beautiful 29-acre Quarry Park, with The Dingle, a magnificent sunken garden providing a colourful centrepiece , will be awash with wonderful flowers, fabulous food and live entertainment- the ultimate summer day out! The show is one of the country’s Premier Flower Show events, attracting top exhibitors from all over the country so expect fantastic floral displays, horticultural competitions and high quality trade stands.

With children 15 years and under, admitted free when accompanied with an adult and a dedicated children’s area which features lots of activities, unusual animals to see, ponies and ducks n chucks to pet, plus much more’, the Shrewsbury Flower Show is an ideal family day out.

Our Arena offers a variety of entertainment to suit every taste. The major attraction for 2017 is The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team – The White Helmets, who are undertaking their final tour. They last came to the Shrewsbury Flower Show in 2011. Other highlights include Grade A Showjumping, duck and dog agility and aerial display from some of the world’s most amazing birds of prey. There will be live music on Friday night from London Community Gospel Choir and Saturday from The Overtones. Performances from the Shrewsbury Male Voice Choir and Of One Accord with a Massed Band Finale and stunning firework display both nights wrapping up the show.

WIN

WIN TICKETS TO THE SHREWSBURY TICKETS FLOWER SHOW! Wrekin News has teamed up with the Shrewsbury Flower Show to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a pair of tickets for the show. All you have to do to enter is send your name, address and daytime telephone number to: Tania Baylis, Flower Festival, Wrekin News, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford TF1 1RY or email your entry to: tania@plus2media.co.uk, terms and conditions apply, closing date for entries is Wednesday 26 July 2017 - Good Luck!

30 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 25, 26, 27, 28 and 30 Out and About.indd 5

26/06/2017 13:58

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Tel: 01952 594 110 Brookside Avenue, Brookside, Telford TF3 1LB

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Suitable for kids, tweens, teens and adults alike, this show brings the full pop concert experience to you.

There are lots of added extras throughout such as Dance Competitions, Free Giveaways and even a Meet & Greet the girls after the show!

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Closing date for all entries is Wednesday 26 July 2017.

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Wrekin News has teamed up with The Place, Oakengates to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a pair of tickets to see Black Magic, The Little Mix Show. All you have to do to enter is send your name, address and daytime telephone number to: Tania Baylis, Little Mix Show Tickets, Wrekin News, Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford TF1 1RY or email your entry with all of the above details to: tania@plus2media.co.uk

The Black Country Night Out is back…packed to the rim with music, mirth and merriment!!

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From heavy metal to Cliff Richard!

Wrekin News recently ran a competition in the magazine giving our readers the chance to win tickets to see pop legend Sir Cliff Richard perform live at Walcot Hall. Wellington residents Jon and Annie Kille were the lucky winners and we are sure they had a very enjoyable time.

O

NE OF our readers Pat Lane, also a huge Sir Cliff fan also went to the concert and she sent us this lovely story about how she managed to convert her friend Lu, a huge heavy metal and rock music fanatic into a Cliff Richard fan.

Pat takes up the story: “I met my friend Lu who is young enough to be my daughter, I am 65, at the Royal Mail where I worked one Christmas as a casual. She was a fanatic of Bon Jovi, and I was a fanatic of Cliff. So we shared notes and stories as to how we had followed our idols around, to different parts of the world and the stupid things we had done.

She had the misconception of Cliff Richard as most people do, that he was a bore, there was no way she would go and see him as she imagined he just came on stage, sat on a stool and crooned, with a cardigan on a bit like Val Doonican.

I told her how wrong she was, and enlightened her as to what Cliff was like on stage, and said the next tour I would get her a ticket and she would come with me to see exactly what Cliff’s concerts where like.

So we obtained tickets and it was the Solicious tour. I was apprehensive, and on arrival, Lu, who has bright red hair and a skull t-shirt on began to feel a slight self conscious. I held my breath, when Cliff appeared on stage, and after two songs, I said ‘What do you Think?’

She said: “I love it, I love him, he has a

fantastic voice.”

Needless to say she wanted to go again and we went to London to see him and she has been with me to every concert at least once.

Pat and Lu had a great time at the Walcot Hall concert and Pat sent us this message: “Cliff was at his best, doing what he does best, entertaining and singing. His voice was perfect and Lu and myself thoroughly enjoyed the show, as you can see by pictures.

We actually did a poster for Cliff and threw it on the stage at the end. As we were two rows from the front, I think Cliff got attracted to Lu’s red hair and gave us a smile and as two crazy fans, we screamed, whooped, and cheered him, every time he came to our side of the stage, which made him laugh.”

32 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 28, 29 Entertainment.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:16

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Gru and the Minions are back in ‘Despicable Me 3’, and they’re meeting a new (if slightly familiar) face: Gru’s identical twin brother Dru. Well, almost identical – Dru has hair.

He’s successful, handsome and incredibly wealthy, and fixated on his family’s legacy of being supervillains. He wants Gru’s help, but Gru has left the life of crime behind. Just maybe, though, the promise of one last heist might be too much to resist…

The smash hit franchise returns with ‘Despicable Me 3’, with Steve Carell once again providing the voice of Gru. And this time, he’s Dru too.

No online booking fees Book your visit with us online and don’t pay a penny in fees.

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Odeon, Telford General Manager Annette Small welcomes you to 10 screens of film magic screening stunning RealD 3D. You can treat yourself to an exclusive entertainment experience with our Premier seats, cafe culture at Costa or icy indulgences at Ben & Jerry’s.

Parking is available at the cinema for the perfect spot!

Why not try our Summer Flavour Tango n, Ice Blast Editio e for a limited tim only!

Fresh from helping Tony Stark in the Avengers’ civil war, ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ sees Peter Parker go back to school.

He wants to be an official Avenger, but despite letting him keep the fancy new suit, Tony still treats him like a kid. So when a new villain emerges, a flying menace called the Vulture, he finally finds an opportunity to prove himself as a superhero worthy of standing alongside Iron Man. We’re going back to school for ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’, which sees the web-slinger take his place alongside the Avengers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

WIN CINEMA TICKETS

s teamed up with Wrekin News ha r a, Telford to offe the Odeon Cinem rd da an st of er’s a pair .

TWO lucky read ce oi ch ur yo a film of cinema tickets to e me and telephon Just send your na Baylis, Wrekin contact to: Tania ad, ckets, Bridge Ro News, Odeon Ti ail: em rd TF1 1RY or Wellington, Telfo ia.co.uk tania@plus2med

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ETS TO BE WON 2 PAIRS OF TICK

25/06/2017 10:16

City watchdog sets deadline date for PPI complaints The City watchdog is to draw a line under the Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) mis-selling scandal with a deadline for complaints set for August 2019.

It will bring to a close a scandal that has cost Britain’s biggest lenders more than £30bn in provisions to cover compensation payouts, with the bill still rising - though at a slower pace than before.

The final deadline for complaints of 29 August 2019 was set by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

The FCA said it would launch a two-year awareness campaign this August to encourage consumers to consider taking action.

Chief executive Andrew Bailey said: “Putting in place a deadline and campaign will mean people who were potentially mis-sold PPI will be prompted to take action rather than put it off.

“We believe that two years is a reasonable time for consumers to decide whether they wish to make a complaint.

“We have carefully considered the feedback we received and we still believe that introducing a deadline for PPI complaints and a communications campaign warning of the deadline will benefit consumers.”

Banks are still putting aside billions to cover the costs of compensating those who were missold PPI products but Barclays and Lloyds saw their 2016 profits surge as the provisions were lower than the year before.

Overall Lloyds has made provisions totalling £17bn so far, with HSBC’s bill standing at just over £3bn, Barclays at £8.4bn, and Royal Bank of Scotland on £4.9bn.

It is estimated that up to now only around half of those eligible to claim have actually done so, and for many the issue is that they did not know that they had been sold a policy, or that it was so long ago they have simply forgotten.

If between 1990 and 2010 you took out a loan, credit card, store card or mortgage it is possible that you may be due compensation which for many runs into £thousands. With the deadline now set I fully expect that the Banks may well be swamped, and I strongly urge you to act quickly to make sure that you do not miss out.

Acorn Claim Assist is unique in the fact that I personally deal with your claim from start to finish, which includes a free initial consultation, in the comfort of your own home, to establish if you have a valid claim, so what do you have to lose?

GB Dog Training to the rescue for ‘Boy’

W

HEN Tom Wilson and his wife Marie and daughter Cortnie from Walsall decided to bring a dog into their life they visited their local RSPCA dog rescue centre in Birmingham to look for the perfect companion.

That’s when they met a shy and reluctant Jack Russell called ‘Boy’.

Despite Boy’s timid demeanor Tom and his family were immediately taken with him and determined that he was the dog for them.

They were told that Boy had been rescued from a house where he had been kept in a small cage since birth surrounded by 50 other dogs kept in squalid and cramped conditions.

Before Tom could bring Boy home the family were encouraged to visit Boy at the rescue centre as often as they could and the RSPCA also conducted a home visit to check the suitability of Tom’s house. With the RSPCA more than satisfied Boy became the newest member of the Wilson family.

However it soon became apparent that whilst Boy settled into his new surroundings reasonably well for a dog that had gone through a very traumatic

start in life he was only really comfortable in the company of Marie and Cortnie and he proved to be very timid and anxious around Tom and men in general.

Tom described the situation as ‘heart-breaking’ as he was desperate to form a bond with the new family dog.

That’s when a colleague of Marie’s suggested that they give Gavin Beechey at GB Dog Training a call for help. Marie’s colleague had also given a home to a rescue dog and was at the point of giving the dog back to the rescue centre before Gavin stepped in to help.

It was a tense wait for Tom and Marie as Gavin spent twenty minutes alone with Boy to make his own assessment. Gavin had

soon gained Boy’s trust so much so that he was able to work with Boy just on a training lead, something which Tom and Marie hadn’t been confident of doing. By the end of the first session Tom was able to approach Boy and pick him up and hold him for the first time. Gavin gave Tom and Marie plenty of tips and ideas to work on with Boy once they were at home.

Since meeting with Gavin, Tom’s confidence with Boy has increased and he can now enjoy their time together as Boy seems much more happy to let Tom be involved in the day-to-day duties and walks.

Tom and Marie understand they do have a long road ahead of them with Boy but everyday they are noticing improvements and they are looking forward to their next appointment with Gavin.

Have you taken out a loan, credit card, finance agreement or mortgage in the last 20 years?

You may have been mis-sold a Payment Protection Plan (PPI) and could be due compensation of hundreds or possibly thousands of pounds!

34 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 41 Acorn.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:00

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25/06/2017 10:02

The Tipple! by

Sue Ladds

STEP UP OR STEP DOWN!

M

Y THANKS go to Caroline for inspiring this month’s column.

Caroline is the postmistriss of Abbey Foregate Post Office. She had the termosity to suggest that council and highway bosses weren’t thinking thro’ the disruption and damage being caused by the roadworks in town, and duly organized a selection of suits from various departments to explain themselves. Her suggestion that traffic lights be reset to allow better flow into town improved life considerably. But why did the managers need this input?

These positions in the Councils hierachy should not be handed to the lucky or those with the fanciest degree but be awarded for proven ability and application.

And so to Grenfell Tower. A horror story for the 21st Century and a nightmare gift that will keep on giving for the authorities.

Jeremy Corbin set my teeth on edge (so, yes he has a talent for something) by suggesting the council was squeezed of funding and couldn’t meet the necessary checks. The council was responsible for the refurb, choosing the materials to be used and checking everything was as specified. If it isn’t, the contractor doesn’t get paid.

Council managers are usually salaried, which means out of pocket expenses, good holidays and a pension pot. It also means staying at the job until it’s done, hours irrelevent.

Private landlords are being harassed but the spectacular inadequacy of Kensington Council should make our councils play much nicer.

The private secor will take up the slack when tenants refuse high rise lettings.

We need more acceptable quality housing. Yes, its been said before but now the sentiment has an urgency. Grenfell Tower was poor quality rabbit hutches before the inferno.

But where does the money come from?

Easy. HS2. Some fancy trainline being paid for by all, but will be used by a few rich Londoners who want to get to the North even quicker.

How many can there be? At present, the job isn’t even started but is swallowing mega-money for consultants and yes, managers.

HS2 is unwanted and unnessessary.

If you think Council managers are failing in their tasks, then like Caroline, call them to account.

If you are a Council manager, then please step up; or step down.

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FOOD ALLERGY TORMENT A spotlight on rarely discussed topics by

Professor Ralph Early

O

NE HEARS of and meets people tormented by allergies and the topic is periodically discussed in the popular press or on TV. Indeed, during the summer, weather forecasts warn of high pollen counts that can affect those who suffer from hay fever. Yet even though the general topic of allergy encapsulates important health and social dimensions, the nature and causes of food allergy as a specific class of allergy receive much less attention and, in relative terms, alongside food allergy the problem of food intolerance attracts hardly any attention at all.

To be allergic is to experience a condition caused by immune system hypersensitivity to environmental and other substances. Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is a primary example. It is not a food allergy but an immune system overreaction stimulated by pollen which gives rise to inflammation of the nasal passages. In some cases the symptoms are relatively mild and little more than a nuisance. In others they can be very serious and potentially life threatening, especially for asthmatics. In terms of degree of seriousness food allergies are like hay fever, ranging from inconvenient to extremely serious.

It is important to make clear that food allergy is not the same as food intolerance. Food allergy concerns an immune response to antigens (or allergenic substances) found in food materials. Food intolerance usually involves the inability to digest certain substances or compounds present in foods. So, a person who is lactose intolerant is unable to digest the milk sugar, often because they have ceased to produce the enzyme that breaks, or hydrolyses it into the simple sugars,

glucose and galactose. In Northern Europe lactose intolerance affects a little under 10% of the population, but in parts of Asia and Africa where the lifetime consumption of dairy products is unusual and the body switches off enzyme production, the levels may be as high as 95%. To assist sufferers the dairy industry provides lactose free milk in which the sugar has been hydrolysed by added enzyme during processing.

Other food intolerances are illustrated by coeliac disease where sufferers are unable to digest the cereal protein, gluten, and by people who are fructose malabsorbent and cannot digest the fruit sugar. Coeliac disease is serious and debilitating, but well understood. It requires the adoption of a gluten-free diet and the avoidance of foods containing wheat and grains such as barley and rye.

In comparison to coeliac disease, fructose malabsorption is poorly understood.

Sufferers fail to digest fructose in the small intestine, or indeed food materials made from fructose such as inulin, which is increasingly used in formulated foods to declare as fibre and bind

36 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 36, 37 Wine and Dine.indd 1

26/06/2017 16:41

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All Staff Professionally trained water. Consequently, the undigested material passes into the colon and is fermented by bacteria causing painful bloat and various symptoms similar to food poisoning.

Food allergy has become increasingly common over the last 40 years, particularly among women and people of Asian origin. Also, it is clear that different foods are associated with food allergy in different countries. In Northern Europe and Scandinavia allergy to fish and shellfish is common, while in continental Europe fruit and vegetable allergies predominate. Of the various food allergies, nut allergy is perhaps the most severe in terms of possible consequences. People of Anglo-Saxon origin are more likely to experience illness from the consumption of peanuts or products such as peanut oil, as well as other nuts, such as walnuts and hazelnuts. Peanut allergy affects a very small proportion of the population and its effects range from itchiness, skin rash, eczema and asthma to a drop in blood pressure, diarrhoea and even cardiac arrest. Anaphylaxis may result, the principal treatment of which is injection with epinephrine. Sadly, for some, the condition can be fatal.

Whether food allergy or food intolerance, both are serious issues for those affected. The European Union has been a powerful force for public protection in very many ways and in 2014 the European Commission published a regulation concerning ‘Food Information for Consumers’ aimed at improving protection from food-borne allergens. This Europe-wide law requires food manufacturers to identify on food product labels any of 14 allergens, and that catering businesses inform customers about the allergens that may be present in the foods they eat. For food allergy sufferers, dining out may not now be as problematic as it used to be because of the availability of allergen information. But for those afflicted by food intolerance, eating away from the home can still represent a minefield.

All food manufacturers, retailers and catering businesses have moral and legal duties to protect consumers. So, if you are someone who suffers from food allergy and/or food intolerance and have any doubt about what food contains, the simple solution is to ask whoever sells it to advise. With the right information you can make appropriate choices. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Ralph Early is Professor of Food Industry in the Department of Food Science and Agri-Food Supply Chain Management in Harper Adams University, a Council Member of the Food Ethics Council and a member of the Guild of Food Writers.

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www.trotfieldwindowsltd.co.uk 1 Madeley Road, Ironbridge, Telford, TF8 7PP www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 37

36, 37 Wine and Dine.indd 2

25/06/2017 10:37

home

garden and

Colourful summer gardens

N

OW WE are approaching the height of summer and there should be plenty of colour in the garden which will please not only us but the myriad of other creatures that populate our gardens. The majority of our native cranesbills (hardy geraniums) will be coming to the end of their flowering season so chop them down as soon as they are over. This may seem a waste but if left they become very untidy after flowering whereas if cut hard back and given some water and feed they soon recover giving a neat compact shape for the remainder of the season. If you are lucky and the weather is kind they will repay with a second flush of flowers in the early autumn.

At this time of the year the air in the evenings should be sweetly scented with all the various perfumes produced from the numerous flowers, such as honeysuckle, lavender, jasmine, cistus and escallonea and the old garden favourite philadelphus. Often these are all lumped together as one and

Andy Allmark Painter & Decorator

CALL NOW ON: Tel: 01952 248119

Mob: 07816 781196 OR EMAIL AT

d.allmark@sky.com

Written by

Robert Hudson

of Lilyhurst Plant Centre

referred to as fragrant, there are, however, a number of varieties of each which have their own unique fragrance. We, therefore, always advise people to buy these plants in flower so you get the fragrance you like.

No matter which style of gardening you prefer there is always deadheading to be carried out.

Shrubs will need some attention once they have flowered so that the plant regenerates ready for next year. The herbaceous garden needs to have the fading flowers removed so that seeds do not form, once this is allowed to happen the plant’s job is done and it will produce no more flowers. If you use bedding its beauty will be very short lived unless you are constantly taking off all the flowers as they die, thus keeping the plants actively trying to set seed.

A question we are asked each year is ‘what do I do now my wisteria has stopped flowering?’ Sometimes wisteria will, after flowering, make substantial amounts of growth and this new growth, when it is not needed to enlarge the plant, can be shortened by between a third and a

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> Top: Cranesbill and above: Philadelphus.

half of its length. This will not harm the plant but will reduce its weight and if we have a wet and windy spell may well save the support structure.

One of the more unusual trees which will be in flower around this month is the liriodendron tulipifera, more commonly known as the tulip tree. Yes it does have orange tulip shaped flowers but is also grown for its distinct foliage, which is also tulip shaped and turns a rich butter yellow in autumn.

You do, however, need a reasonably sized garden for this tree as it can grow quite large, but is well worth growing if you have the room.

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38 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 38, 39 Home and Garden.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:21

Simon Bradbury Tel: 07725 040408

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556460 www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 39

38, 39 Home and Garden.indd 2

25/06/2017 11:07

Your Community

Gin Tasting Evening On Friday 8th September 2017 Moonshine and Fuggles of Ironbridge will allow you to taste a selection of their amazing gins, paired with the best mixers and garnishes.

Selection of Nibbles. ÂŁ25.00 per person to include, gins, mixers and nibbles.

To reserve your tickets please call the Buckatree Hall on

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Registered Charity No 1148269

Pin your notices on our Community Noticeboard - all you have to do is email your notice to: tania@plus2media.co.uk

40 ¡ www.wrekinnews.co.uk 40 Community Notice Board.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:11

Key-hole surgery brings with it huge possibilities for your pets

A

T SEVERN Edge Vets Ltd we pride ourselves on continually investing into our facilities, our branches, and being up to date with the latest treatments.

A recent addition for female dogs is key hole neutering, a modern approach to spaying which results in less pain, lower risk & faster recovery.

Our vet, Daniel Nicholls, talks more here about the method and the extraordinary benefits it can bring to the recovery process of your pet.

Key-hole (Laparoscopic) surgery is something that was barely on my radar at university. It was always something that was discussed as possible but not really normal practice. So, when I started at Severn Edge, key-hole surgery wasn’t something I had seen much of or have much experience with. It’s only since being here I have seen an array of operations that have been done using key-hole methods. My eyes have most definitely been opened to the possibilities.

Key-hole surgery isn’t something new in human medicine but it’s only in the last decade or so that it has emerged in the veterinary world. It can be used for a variety of operations that were previously done by more invasive methods, often opening the animal up (laparotomy) in the traditional method giving you total access to the abdomen.

Why bother with this new stuff? The benefits are mainly seen in the recovery of the animal following the operation. Having abdominal surgery for example is a very painful experience and although we try our best to alleviate that pain using medications, often the discomfort from the surgery is there regardless. Key-hole surgery means that instead of a large hole required to access the cavity, a couple of small holes are used instead. This means there is a lot less trauma to the skin and muscle layers so therefore much less pain and less time needing to be rested. This all means your animal gets back to normal life quicker than ever before.

There are variety of situations and surgical procedures that key-hole is suitable for. At the moment the routine surgery we are doing at Severn Edge is a keyhole ovariectomy (spay). However, we are now using the technique more and more for other things such as taking liver biopsies for patients with liver disease that needs investigating and removing retained testicles (cryptorchid) in male dogs.

In my time seeing and performing key-hole operations, I have already seen the dramatic improvement in recovery times and pain experienced post operatively. I am excited to see what we can use the technique for next, so that we can constantly progress and improve our patient’s quality of care.

Dr Dan Nicholls BVMedSci BVM BVS MRCVS

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41 Severn Edge Vets.indd 1

24/06/2017 19:35

Syd

Taylor

The region’s nu mber one motoring journalist

KODIAQ

SKODA KODIAQ

Edition 2.0 TDI 150PS 4x4 DSGx

THE BEAR THAT LEAVES THE OTHERS BEHIND!

M

Y EDITOR is an understanding fellow: tolerant but strong when it comes to firm leadership. He gets exasperated every now and then though. Who doesn’t?

And when in a fit of impatience he threw down my copy, glared at me and said how nice it would be just for once to read one of my pieces without having to pick his way through a minefield of shockingly weak puns, I offered a challenge. Would he pay me the national minimum wage (pro rata) for my next piece provided it contained no puns whatsoever?

He looked at me steadily. Without altering his expression he said “Done!” And then he passed me the next assignment. To road test the Kodiaq - Skoda’s new seven seat 4WD SUV that offers first-class travel not just on the road but also while tackling extreme terrain.

I gulped. He grinned. He said “I’m onto a winner here”.

He knew, of course, that ‘Kodiaq’ is the

name of a bear. I pawsed.

I couldn’t bear it. How could I avoid using a pun?

My head spun. I realised that before I’d barely begun I’d lost the bet and stumbled out of the office to the sounds of an editor expressing mirth.

But - bear with me - the smile was soon on another face and that face was mine. The reason? Simple.

A turn at the wheel of the new Kodiaq was all it took to banish the bitter taste of defeat.

One glance at it’s chunky yet cheerful lines and I found that houses, factories, tarmac and traffic lights - all the impediments of the concrete jungle - faded and dissolved into an evocation of The Great Outdoors: that inviting wilderness of pine trees and glistening lakes that lie just beyond the vale of conformity. In a twenty first century reincarnation of Landseer’s famous Monarch of The Glen, the Kodiaq stands proud, effectively substituting its brawny bear biceps for the sublime stag of the Victorian picture.

As I steered the Kodiaq around over-stuffed ring road roundabouts no amount of traffic tribulation distracted me from the sheer enjoyment of this superlative top of the range Kodiaq Edition that costs just £34,050. It has so much comfort and such an extensive range of ‘connected’ and ‘assist’ systems that you marvel at the price. There’s a touch screen that is wired to the moon for audio, navigation and communications. Power operated leather covered front seats are, of course, heated and you get that really useful automatic headlight dipping system - not forgetting beams of such brightness and range that - raised vertically - they could be used to locate enemy bombers. But, Oh dear! A car of such quality and specification with just rear parking sensors and no reversing camera - surely just an oversight on Skoda’s part, for here is a manufacturer that thinks of nearly everything: like an umbrella in both front doors and a small flashlight in the boot.

42 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 42, 43 Syd Taylor.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:12

Dacia Duster Prestige dci 110 4x4

Duster - from the planet Good Sense

R There’s a choice of driving modes from Eco to Sport.

Select sport, put your foot down and feel the swelling power of the beautifully quiet and smooth 150PS diesel that can take you to 120mph, while the class-leading seven speed DSG automatic gearbox makes imperceptible changes at just the right time. For a car so capable off-road it’s a surprising delight on tarmac. The ride can be serene, yet when you want to press on it is brilliantly controlled.

Living with the Kodiaq is as easy as supping tea at a teddy bear’s picnic. Here is a car with looks, versatility and charm. And while it won’t fuel itself on berries and pine needle soup, proves itself economical enough to transform the boring business of filling up into a feel-good experience. Frequent fuel stops are not necessary in a vehicle possessed of camel-like capabilities of range per unit of consumption. Or as I said to my editor “You barely have to stop for fuel”. (49.6 mpg overall. Drive gently in eco mode and you can get into the mid 50s).

Being naturally mischievous I had to take a leaf out of Mr. Grylls book and head to the wilderness. With pine forests and lakes in short supply where I live I decided to visit The Timber Valley Garden Centre to test the load carrying credentials. I parked on the crunchy gravel, excitedly flung open the doors which caught the wall of the building by which I had parked (NO problems here thanks to Skoda’s ingenious device for protecting door edges!), opened the rear hatch and lowered the seats. Unfortunately my choice of shed was too bulky for this Skoda. Even pure honeys like the Kodiak have limitations.

One is never browned-off with a bear like this. It’s a bear that leaves the others behind. (As my editor says - I always write an araldite revue).

ENAULT-OWNED Dacia is a value brand offering well constructed cars that use slightly older technology from earlier Renaults.

Consequently you get more for less money. They are still Romanian but are a world away from the dismal offerings from the Ceausescu era. They are very good cars and the Duster is an SUV about the size of a Nissan Qashqai.

As is the fashion, many SUVs sell well with only 2WD (You can have a 2WD Duster for just £9,495) - but this writer prefers 4WD capability. A Duster is a toughlooking customer and yet charming with it.

As a 4WD variant, it’s like a muscular mate you can depend on, packing a pleasant surprise or two.

There’s bags of space and plenty of credibility. Five adults are accommodated in comfort and style and precise infusions of the ergonomics of utility lend a sense of uncompromised intent to everything in sight.

Trim levels and specification levels depend on the purse - but all options deliver refinement and capability aplenty - and folk so far unpersuaded by the 4x4 philosophy might be forced to rethink when reminded of the state of our roads - where potholes proliferate like campaigning Parliamentarians and Alpine ranges of speed humps shake your expensive fillings loose. Throw in a flood or two plus the risk of earth tremors and sink holes and you have a highway born of Beelzebub, The

Horned Imp. Cynics may scoff at the trend towards off-road capability but when the road itself is decidedly ‘off’ what else can you do but meet it head on with a capable vehicle that won’t be bullied into submission by crumbling infrastructures and conformist thinking.

You certainly need a car that rides high, tackles terrible terrain with tenacity and treats you to a good ride.

In a 4WD version of the Duster, at the turn of a switch you can select 4WD, 2WD or just leave it in ‘auto’ to do the thinking for you.

It’s not as capable as dedicated off-roaders like Defenders and Shoguns but it has more than enough capability to get you out of trouble ninety nine times out of a hundred.

The 1.5 litre 110 bhp 4cylinder diesel is a willing and lively unit that drives through a positive action (But not ‘snickety snick quick’) six speed gearbox. It will take you to about 105mph yet realistically return around 50mpg overall.

It’s certainly a car that makes favourable impressions. My neighbours in the cul-de-sac of dreams couldn’t take their eyes off the Duster. It was as though a visitor from the planet Good Sense had parked on my drive.

“What’s that?” asked Des Grange, an IT consultant from a few lawns away.

“A Dacia Duster” I replied.

“Bit shiny for a duster isn’t it?” he quipped. “Are you spring cleaning?”

When I told him it’s price of £17,395 the colour drained from his cheeks as he totted up the cost of all the ‘extras’ he had chosen for his new ‘premium’ brand SUV. More than the price of a Duster! www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 43

42, 43 Syd Taylor.indd 2

25/06/2017 10:13

Can you help Arleston Memories History Group?

Arleston Memories History Group will be holding their annual history and memories event on 23 September at the Arleston Community Centre.

Following a recent meeting of the group we would like to make an appeal through the Wrekin News to see if anybody has any memories of the Wellington Laundry which was in Prince’s Street.

We would welcome any photographs and any written articles which we would be able to display at our event.

If anybody can help please contact Rob Maddox on 01952 401850 or by email to: rm004r6716@blueyonder.co.uk More details of the event will be advised at a later date, nearer the time.

Support for people experiencing tinnitus in Shropshire Two local tinnitus support groups will be holding meetings throughout the year. Telford Tinnitus Support Group next meeting dates are as follows: 6 September and 6 December, meeting at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Tank Bank, Wellington 2.30 - 4.30pm and the Shrewsbury group will meet 1 June, 7 September and 7 December at The Hive, 5 Belmont, Shrewsbury 10-12 noon.

If you experience tinnitus and would like support, advice and tips from others you would be most welcome.

For more information telephone 01743 358356.

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44 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 44 Home Services.indd 1

26/06/2017 00:36

T

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45 Adverts.indd 1

25/06/2017 10:43

Sport WREKIN NEWS

email your sports story to: james@plus2media.co.uk

WELLINGTON STRUGGLE TO FIND SOME BIG RUNS Wellington are hoovering perilously close to the relegation places in Division One. It was always going to be a tough season and Captain Wendell Wagner has called for character, resilience and determination.

Recent games appear to follow a similar pattern, Wellington find it difficult to post a sizable first innings score and this leaves the bowlers unable to exert any pressure after tea.

W

ELLINGTON struggled against local rivals Brigdnorth. Batting first on a decent wicket Wellington amassed 232 for eight after 50 overs. The total felt a little under par but it was good to see Dan Lloyd score 45 and Neil Edwards top score with 56. Lots of players got starts but no one really went on to make that telling score. Wellington took wickets and the game was nicely poised with Bridgnorth on 95 for four but then the significant partnership of the day developed between Jono Whitney (69 not out) and Gareth Mumford (62) who pushed the game away from Wellington. Bridgnorth ran out five wicket winners.

Even though having Samit Gohil returning from injury, Wellington failed to chase down 228 in their game against Bromsgrove. Worcestershire’s Alexei Kervezee (62) held the Bromsgrove innings together before getting stumped off the bowling of Dan Lloyd. Unfortunately, Wellington’s batting never materialised and they were finally dismissed for poultry 104 all out.

Regrettably the poor batting form continued against Moseley. Winning the toss and electing to bat first saw Wellington succumbed to 53 all out.

Despite taking five Moseley wickets Wellington

LEARN Authentic Japanese Shotokan KARATE

Kihon - Basics Kata - Forms Kumite - Sparring Bunkai & Oyo - For self defence Taiso - Stretching & conditioning At Wrekin College Sports Hall Wed 6.30pm & Sat 10.30am

Afiliated: SKIF Japan (Shotokan Karate-do International Federation, soke Hirokazu Kanazawa, 10th dan)

Contact Tony 07841 839372

Cricket round-up with Fraser Watson couldn’t hide from what was a chastening defeat.

Slipping dangerously close to the relegation places Wellington needed to respond quickly.

Respond they did at home against Attock.

The Lloyd brothers answered Captain Wagner’s call for character as they set about building a platform. Dan Lloyd top scored with 52 and Sam Lloyd supported him with 41 as Wellington posted a much more respectable 240 for eight.

Dan Lloyd capped a fine individual performance by taking three wickets and it was great to see Samit taking four for 48. Attock were all out for 163. 24 vital points and a big confidence booster.

Once more the batting frailties were exposed against Shifnal. Wellington were invited to bat first and were knocked over for 127 all out. Samit

> Samit Gohil celebrates taking a wicket against Attock.

Gohil was the only positive, a resilient 47. With such a meagre total the bowlers found it difficult to apply any pressure and Shifnal comfortably reached the target with the loss of only three wickets.

FIXTURES FOR JULY The season continues at home against Wellington’s search for more runs at Smethwick 1st July, home against Himley 8th July, away at Walmley 15th July and at home against Leamington Spa on 22nd July.

All games start at 12 noon.

Telford's Tony takes European Karate Championship bronze Tony Atherden, European Karate Championships bronze medal winner, in the age 65+ category.

At the 2017 Shotokan Karate European Championships, hosted

by SKIF Europe (SKIEF) at the Fortuna Arena in Hradec Kralova, Czech Republic, saw some 700 karate competitors from all age-groups from 26 countries competing.

Wrekin Shotokan Karate Club’s Chief Instructor, Tony Atherden (based at Wrekin College since 1994) won championship bronze medal in the Kumite (Free-fighting discipline) Masters category, in the 65+ age group.

In addition to 3rd place in the Masters Kumite, Tony also placed 4th in the Masters Kata discipline (Traditional Forms).

At the SKIF European general meeting of representatives of the 26 countries present, held after the competition, Tony was re-elected as a Director of the SKIF European Karate Federation [SKIEF], a position he has also held for the previous four years.

Tony Atherden, 6th Dan black belt, Renshi (Master Instructor), aged 68, has been the resident

Karate Instructor at Wrekin College Sports Hall since founding the Karate club there in 1994. Tony is a retired University Lecturer who lives in Priorslee, and has been practicing Karate for the last 53 years.

The club itself has produced numerous Black Belts since its foundation, and several very successful competitors in Shotokan Karate at National, International and at World Championship level.

The club is affiliated in Japan to the SKIF [Shotokan Karate International Federation], led by the world-renowned sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa, 10th Dan, and to the SKKIF UK affiliated organisation.

Anyone wishing to learn authentic Japanese Karate is encouraged to contact the karate club at Wrekin College Sports Hall in Wellington with a view to trying it out. Currently the youngest member of the club is eight years old, and the oldest member, John, 2nd Dan, is 80 years old and he is still training twice a week!

46 · www.wrekinnews.co.uk 46 Sport.indd 1

26/06/2017 15:28

www.wrekinnews.co.uk · 47

47 Adverts.indd 1

25/06/2017 11:00

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48 Adverts.indd 1

25/06/2017 01:22