Spice West Midlands Summer Newsletter 2017

SUMMER 2017

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17/07/2017 09:50

So I don’t know about you but where have the last 6 months gone?

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months.

Ian Purvis 6SLFH 8.

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17/07/2017 09:50

Name: $OLVRQ :KHDW Which Group are you a member of? :HVW 0LGODQGV

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How long have you been a Spice member? 3 years Why did you join Spice?

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What has been your favourite event?

Too many to mention and so diverse. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so JRRG DERXW VSLFH

What would be your advice for a new member? %RRN RQ RQH RU WZR HYHQWV VWUDLJKWDZD\ DQG ZKHQ \RX WXUQ XS SXW D VPLOH RQ \RXU IDFH LQWURGXFH \RXUVHOI WR VRPHRQH ± DQG WKH DGYHQWXUH EHJLQV :H¶YH DOO EHHQ WR D µ¿UVW¶ HYHQW Have you been on a Spice UK Holiday?

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Have you had an embarrassing Spice moment?

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What is your funniest memory in Spice?

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Name: -RDQQH 0DOOLQGHU Which Group are you a member of? :HVW 0LGODQGV How long have you been a Spice member?

For about 5 years with a one year break Why did you join Spice? , MRLQHG 6SLFH ZKHQ , ZHQW WKURXJK D GLI¿FXOW WLPH ZLWK D PDUULDJH EUHDNGRZQ DQG P\ VRQ OHIW IRU 8QLYHUVLW\ LQ 3O\PRXWK What has been your favourite event?

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What has been your most challenging event?

The dance classes as I am shy and Sheena used me as KHU GHPRQVWUDWLRQ SDUWQHU +RZHYHU , DP ERRNHG RQ D &DQDGLDQ FFDQRHLQJ WKDW PD\ UHSODFH WKLV What is your funniest memory in Spice?

6HJZD\ DVVDXOW FRXUVH MXVW PDGH XV DOO ODXJK VR PXFK WKDW we were like children on our Scooters again.

What would be your advice for a new member?

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LOL Not yet but am sure it is coming...

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What has been your most challenging event?

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What would be your advice for a new member?

0\ DGYLFH IRU D QHZ PHPEHU ZRXOG EH WR FKRVH DQ HYHQW WKDW \RX NQRZ \RX ZRXOG HQMR\ 7KHQ MXVW WDNH LW IURP WKHUH Have you been on a Spice UK Holiday? <HV , KDYH EHHQ RQ PDQ\ 6SLFH KROLGD\V mainly walking and skiing.

Have you had an embarrassing Spice moment?

I have had one or two embarrassing moments which include Leading my ski JURXS RQWR WKH UXQZD\ RI WKH PRXQWDLQ DLUSRUW LQ )UDQFH What is your life philosophy in one sentence?

We all have an inner child inside which should be UHOHDVHG ZKHQHYHU SRVVLEOH

17/07/2017 09:50

FOCUS ON EAST MIDLANDS 7KH WZR VWDQG RXW DUHDV WKDW (DVW 0LGODQGV excels at are walks/rambles and weekends away. :H KDYH D UHJXODU 6XQGD\ ZDON LQ WKH 3HDN 'LVWULFW ZKLFK FDQ DWWUDFW DV PDQ\ DV ZDONHUV :H YDU\ WKH WHUUDLQ WKH DUHD RI WKH 3HDN 'LVWULFW DQG GLVWDQFH VR ZH FDWHU IRU DOO abilities. We also have more regional walks at weekends and evenings. :H DOVR UXQ D UHJXODU SURJUDPPH RI :HHNHQG %UHDNV SODQQHG DQG OHG E\ 6WHYH 'HOO ZKLFK JR LQWR WKH 1DWLRQDO SURJUDPPH 7KHVH FDQ EH VSOLW LQWR WZR PDLQ FDWHJRULHV ± :DONLQJ DQG 6RFLDO 0HPEHUV ORYH RXU ZHHNHQGV DV YLUWXDOO\ HYHU\WKLQJ LV SODQQHG IRU WKHP WKH\ MXVW ERRN WXUQ XS DQG HQMR\ WKHPVHOYHV Walking: our walking weekends are the more social walking ZHHNHQGV XVXDOO\ ZLWK VRFLDO DFWLYLWLHV LQ WKH HYHQLQJ VXFK as quizzes.

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FOCUS ON LONDON 6SLFH /RQGRQ RIIHUV D ZLGH UDQJH RI HYHQWV ERWK LQ &HQWUDO /RQGRQ DQG WKH 6RXWK (DVW We have already had some great weekends this year such DV RXU 3RWWHUV 5HVRUW ZHHNHQG LQ 1RUIRON D 1DUURZERDW FUXLVH &\FOLQJ DQG %XQN %DUQ ZHHNHQGV 7KHQ FRPLQJ XS RYHU WKH VXPPHU PRQWKV ZH KDYH VRPH IDEXORXV ZHHNHQGV VXFK DV 6XU¿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countryside we have some lovely walks and days out in IDQWDVWLF DUHDV RI 2XWVWDQGLQJ 1DWLRQDO %HDXW\ VXFK DV WKH 6XUUH\ +LOOV .HQW DQG 6XVVH[ 'RZQV DQG WKH +LJK :HDOG DQG WKH &KLOWHUQ +LOOV &KULVWPDV DQG 1HZ <HDU DUH DOZD\V D VSHFLDO WLPH IRU 6SLFH /RQGRQ DQG DJDLQ WKLV \HDU ZH KDYH KLUHG RXU 6SLFH ([FOXVLYH %RDW IRU RXU 1HZ <HDU¶V (YH 3DUW\ &UXLVH RQ WKH 7KDPHV ZKHUH DW PLGQLJKW ZH PRRU XS FORVH WR %LJ %HQ WR KHDU WKH VWURNH RI 0LGQLJKW DQG ZDWFK WKH )LUHZRUNV OLJKW XS WKH VN\ RYHU WKH 7KDPHV $ IDQWDVWLF VLJKW 7R PDNH D ZHHNHQG RI LW WKHUH LV WKH RSWLRQ WR VWD\ RQH RU WZR QLJKWV DW WKH /X[XU\ &RSWKRUQH 7DUD +RWHO LQ .HQVLQJWRQ 2U \RX FDQ JHW LQWR WKH &KULVWPDV VSLULW ZLWK RXU )HVWLYH /X[XU\ :HHNHQG DW 3RWWHUV VWDU 5HVRUW LQ 1RUIRON ZLWK /LYH (QWHUWDLQPHQW DQG D UDQJH RI DFWLYLWLHV VXFK DV KDYH VHJZD\ .DUWLQJ DLU ULÃ&#x20AC;H VKRRWLQJ DUFKHU\ SLWFK Q SXWW EDGPLQWRQ and table tennis. The weekend includes all your meals so all \RX QHHG WR GR LV EX\ \RXU GULQNV 6SLFH /RQGRQ KDYH VR PDQ\ IXQ HYHQWV WR FKRRVH IURP HDFK PRQWK VLPSO\ MXVW ERRN WXUQ XS PHHW QHZ IULHQGV DQG KDYH IXQ

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FOCUS ON THAMES VALLEY & SOLENT ,Q WKH FRPLQJ PRQWKV 7KDPHV 9DOOH\ 6ROHQW ZLOO EH GRLQJ D FRXSOH RI RXU LFRQLF µEHKLQG WKH scenes eventsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The most notable is our Sunset Stonehenge Tour. $ $W 6WRQHKHQJH ZH DUULYH DIWHU e everyone else goes home and with D D PD[LPXP RI RI XV ZH DOORZ R RXU NQRZOHGJHDEOH WRXU JXLGH µ'RQ¶ tto take us through the history and OOHJHQGV RI WKH IDPRXV VWRQHV 'RQ E EULQJV KLV GRZVLQJ URGV WR KHOS XV X XQGHUVWDQG WKH LPSRUWDQFH RI WKH H HQHUJ\ OLQHV LQ WKH DUHD KDQGLQJ RYHU tthe rods so we can check things out IIRU RXUVHOYHV O Our next Sunset Stonehenge tour is 6 6DWXUGD\ $XJXVW $ $QRWKHU EHKLQG WKH VFHQHV WRXU WKDW 7 7KDPHV 9DOOH\ ZLOO EH HPEDUNLQJ RQ LLV D 6XQVHW WRXU DW 0DUZHOO =RR : :KHQ WKH SXEOLF KDV JRQH KRPH DQG WWKH DQLPDOV ZDNH XS IURP WKHLU GD\ WWLPH VOHHS ZH ZLOO YLVLW WKH ]RR DQG J JHW WR VHH WKH DFWLYH DQLPDOV DJDLQ ttaking with us a knowledgeable guide tto answer our questions. This Sunset 7 7RXU DW 0DUZHOO =RR LV VFKHGXOHG IRU 8 July.

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17/07/2017 09:50

Spice Moments

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Left to right: Sue, Adam, Richard, Maggie & Claire

Richard’s Roundup Welcome to our summer and early autumn programme and the chance to look forward to all the Spice fun and friendship we have in store!

Another 500 Spice events have gone by since I wrote my last “Roundup” in April and as always, we’ve had lots of fun in a huge variety of ways. Here are a few of the major highlights: In April we visited lots of places, from the ultra modern Amazon Fulfilment Centre to the historic time capsule that is Madresfield Court! We also walked, cycled and Segwayed in lots of places. Walking challenges I particularly remember include our two day canal walk from Birmingham to Stratford and day walk from Brindley Palace to Sarehole Mill – with the challenge of following water all the way!

May saw us conquering the mighty 100mph Zipline in Bethesda; finding our way around the perimeter of Birmingham Airport; partying at Birmingham’s new Bier Keller; cycling through fields of flowers on our ride to Worcester; rafting Ironbridge to Bridgnorth and even a wildlife week in the Highlands of Scotland!

June started with the Great Midlands Fun Run, which is always a big occasion for Spice as we not only provide a team of runners, walkers and joggers, but also a group of marshals. We will know soon just how much we have raised for St Mary’s Hospice from our efforts. Also in June we discovered the sport of Segway Polo; we smashed a photocopier with a baseball bat in a “rage room” and even had a Chinese meal with one course at each of 3 Chinese restaurants!

Also in June we had two ‘back to back’ Sicily breaks with our Italy experts Claire & Andrea. What I love about all the trips we do with Claire & Andrea is that we always manage to become part of the Italian community rather than just observing it as “tourists” - and this is where the magic lies. On the tiny island of Marettimo (which has no hotels) this meant us staying in simple apartments, some with Italian families, where impromptu cooking lessons and other adventures ensured long term friendships were made.

We explored, we ate, we swam, we snorkelled, we shopped, we played, we laughed ..

We have enjoyed planning lots of brand new events for the summer and autumn months with hopefully something for absolutely everyone. As well as the old favourites, don’t miss our brand new offerings such as: Cannes by Eurostar French Riviera Break (see p53); Zing – our new Spice Choir (see p48); Balloon Modeling (see p51); Songs from the Shows Cabaret at Barston Lakes (see p1); Harvey Nichols Restaurant Shuffle (see p2); Acting Workshop at a theatre (see p51); Greek Party Night (see p4); Bat Night in Sutton Park (see p9); Prison Escape (see p34); Death Club (see p11); Darcy’s DD Mix (see p14); Mary Ashford Mystery Talk (see p39) or why not join me on a 2 day Downhill Walking Break to Warwick (see P54)!

I do hope you all enjoy the events we’ve found for you over the coming months. Please bear in mind that The Spice Newsletter is just a snapshot in time and that new events and opportunities are coming onto our website all the time. We also have quite a few events that we do not have space to include in these newsletters such as the sailing programme, a huge programme of barn weekends and some meals, horse riding and craft events that came in just too late to make the pages. Please watch our website, our Facebook Page and the Weekly Email Bulletins to get the very latest on the fun that we are finding for you.

See you on the events ..

Coming Events July 2017 * denotes event is full

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1 July

Sunday 2

Canoeing Taster * Come & Try Mtn Biking * Summer Ball Accommodation* Summer Ball at Botanical Gardens

Barton Marina Figure of 8 Peak District Walk: Play with Clay Using a Potters Wheel!* Stratford Riverboat & Tea The Big Abseil - 150 Feet

Walking Week - Glen Coe, Scotland*

3

4

5

6

7

Spice Book Club - Sutton Coldfield

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

BBC Radio WM Live Audience Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton Shuttington Ram

Beeches Bar & Grill Dinner Shuffle* Halesowen & Quinton Pub Night

8

9

Chocolate Tasting & Making Experience* Hindu Temple Visit Ladies Day at Leicester Outdoor Activity Day Sense & Sensibility at Blakesley Hall Style Workshop - Making the Most of You*

Fire Eating & Fire Breathing Workshop Forest Segway Harry Potter Studios Visit Knife & Axe Throwing Learn to Drift Medieval Jousting* Peak District Walk: Tandem Skydive Wake up the Zoo

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

Simple Sewing Workshop with Celebratory Cake!* Spice Book Club - Solihull Ten Pin Bowling (Acocks Green)

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park

BBC Audience Badminton – Sutton Badminton at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton Botanical Gardens Tour Sutton Pub Night

Moroccan/ Middle Eastern Inspired Dinner Shuffle* Quiz - Sound & Vision Quiz in Tamworth

National Dragon Boat Camping

National Dragon Boat Camping National Dragon Boat Party & BBQ Spice Wing Walking Wickenby, Lincolnshire

Bird of Prey Encounter* Bosworth Steam Ramble Cinema Night & Meal National Dragon Boat Racing Peak District Walk: Social Cycle Ride Kenilworth

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

Preview Evening - Sutton Coldfield

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton Berkswell Evening Ramble The Red Shoes

Toploader at the Jam House

Outdoor Cinema at Kedleston Hall Sex & the Tudors at Tutbury Castle Spice Hits Town at the Jam House

Battle of the Proms Canadian Canoe Adventure Hangliding - Tandem Hovercrafting "Flying" on Land & Water Meet the Meerkats Experience Mixed Media Memory Box Pole Dancing with Pure Joy Urban Ramble: Solihull

Learn to Draw in a Day Microlighting Experience New Members Ramble New Members Buffet Paragliding - Tandem Paragliding Day Course Peak District Walk Staunton Harold Ramble Walk - Berkeley & Sharpness Docks

Helmsley, North Yorkshire Hostel & Camping W’end*

Fun Sailing W’end - Torbay with Rib Ride* Walking W’end - Brecon Beacons

Bristol Harbour Music Festival W’end Sailing W’end on the Solent U40 Wharfedale Lodge W’end Walking W’end Summer in The Lakes Troon Golf Break

24

25

26

27

Blacksmithing Evening - Stage Two

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug Tamworth & Lichfield Pub Night

Badminton – Sutton Badminton Free: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton Stand Up Paddle Boarding Taster: Tamworth Castle

Miss Saigon*

28

29

30

Rock Climbing for the Terrified Stock Car Racing* Sutton Park History Walk with John Porter The Magic of Motown at Conkers

Charleston Dance W’shop Dudley Canals & Tunnels 6 Hour Guided Cruise* Horse Riding Fun Day! Nordic Walking at Lickey Peak District Walk Spetchley Gardens Walk Stow on the Wold 10 Miler Tanworth in Arden Ramble

Masham Beer & BBQ W’end* Walking W’end Eastbourne

31

Spice West Midlands, Ryknild House, Burnett Road, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B74 3EL Tel: 0121 353 6161 Email: richard@spicebham.com Website: www.spicebham.com * Denotes event is full – wait list only

Coming Events August 2017 * denotes event is full

Monday

Tuesday 1 August

Wednesday 2

Thursday 3

Friday 4

Saturday 5

Sunday 6

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

Barton Arms Tour & Thai Meal Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton

Baddesley Clinton Ev Ramb Halesowen & Quinton Pub Night Hamish Stuart at the Jam House Outdoor Cinema - Mamma Mia

Harvey Nichols Restaurant Dinner Shuffle

Chocolate Truffle Making Workshop Heart Book Fold Workshop Spice Wing Walking Stonehenge Sunset Tour Supersonic 70's Music Night at Conkers Whitewater Rafting at Nene Whitewater Centre

Bike Ride - Forest Of Dean Long Mynd Hard Ramble Peak District Walk: Kinder Smethwicks' Amazing Canal Walk Tandem Skydive Wellesbourne & Charlecote Park Easy to Moderate Ramble

8

9

10

11

Decopatch Craft Evening at Cafe Ceramica Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

Sutton Pub Night Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton Curry & Quiz Solihull

Boathouse at Bracebridge Dining Royal Crown Derby Pottery Visit

Walking W’end Elan Valley Reservoirs

7

12

13

Edit your Wardrobe Elmley Castle & Bredon Hard/ High Level Walk Flight Simulator* Hippodrome Back Stage The Secret Garden Urban Ramble: Cannon Hill & Bournville Triangle Water Inflatable Fun at Aqua Park Rutland

Bird of Prey Photography at Ash End House Farm Hartington Come & Try Mountain Biking Incredible Auto Circus* Inflatable Action Fun Nordic Walk at Ironbridge Peak District Walk Robs Railway Ramble: Shenstone & Lichfield Social Cycle: Stratford

Ascot Races Concert & Windsor W’end Bristol Balloon Fiesta W’end Birmingham to Warwick Downhill Walking Break Liverpool Social W’end* North Wales Hostel/Camping Social W’end* Surfing W’end Walking W’end The Beautiful Gower

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

Simple Sewing Workshop with Celebratory Cake!

Ten Pin Bowling (Acocks Green)

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

Forhill Evening Ramble Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton

Dr Feelgood Live at the Jam House Gliding Evening at Stratford Modern British Dinner Shuffle at Moor Hall

Spice Hits Town at the Jam House

Bradgate Proms in the Park Lichfield Cathedral Treasures & Light Show Multi Water Sports Exp Pony Trekking Day with Picnic in the Forest of Dean

Cinema Night & Meal Jewellery Quarter Cemeteries Tour Knowle Easy Ramble Peak District Walk Urban Challenge Ramble: A Full Circuit from Sutton Western Style Shooting White Water Rafting

Summer Bunkhouse W’end with Beaches & BBQ Sizzling Summer Cruise/Boat Party & Luxury Hotel

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

Prison Lunch Rounders for Free Sutton Park Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes

Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton

The 3 Degrees at the Jam House

Pie Factory Night with Live Music

Bat Night in Sutton Park Branston Water Park & Tatenhill Easy Ramb/Lunch Kayaking for Fun Melbourne Hall & Gardens Visit & Talk

Helicopter Lesson Henley in Arden Ramble Nordic Walking Course Peak District Walk Quad Bike Intro & Woodland Trek

Sailing - Cross Channel Bank Holiday W’end Edinburgh Festival W’end 2017 Scarborough YHA Social W’end Staffs Moorlands & Churnet Valley Walking & Social W’end Walking W’end Lynton & the North Devon Coast Walking W’end Snowdonia Ultimate 3000s Walking W’end Wuthering Heights Ilkley Bank Holiday

28

29

30

31

Himley Hall & Baggeridge Country Park Easy Ramble Peak District Walk

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Tamworth & Lichfield Pub Night Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton

Chinese Meal & Quiz - Sutton Coldfield

Spice West Midlands, Ryknild House, Burnett Road, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B74 3EL Tel: 0121 353 6161 Email: richard@spicebham.com Website: www.spicebham.com * Denotes event is full – wait list only

Coming Events September 2017 * denotes event is full

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 1 September

Saturday 2

Sunday 3

Songs from the Shows & Abba Cabaret Night

Acting for Beginners Burford 10 Mile Ramble Dana Prison Sleepover Prison Escape Kayak River Adventure Kingsbury Water Park & Middleton Hall Ramble Sherwood Improvers Mountain Bike Ride Spice Wing Walking Total 80's Live Music Night Zipworld Velocity

Alvechurch Easy Ramble Birmingham to Preston Bagot Towpath Cycling Escape Room Challenge Fly from Cov. to Stratford Moseley Village Disc.Walk Peak District Walk Play with Clay - Using a Potters Wheel* Segway Polo for Beginners Shropshire Raft Tour Weston Park Tour & Tea

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Spice Book Club - Sutton Coldfield

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

Indoor Rifle Shooting Evening Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton

Curry & Quiz Harborne Gliding Evening at Stratford Halesowen & Quinton Pub Night Tom Browne’s Funkin' for Jamaica

Peaky Blinders Night at the Black Country Museum

Broadway 10 Mile Ramble Diverse Dance Mix W’shop Firework Champions at Ragley Hall Jewellery Making Overnight Forest Exp. Tandem Skydive The Great Gatsby Waterskiing for Beginners & Improvers

Chillington Hall Heirs Tour & Tractor Expedition Mosaic Making Workshop Newhall Mill Easy Ramble, Walk & Open Day Peak District Walk SWAT Training Mission Singers Hill Synagogue Social Cycle: Measham Tardebigge Easy Ramble

Camping Afloat - The Lapworth Ring Sailing W’end on the Solent Sailing, Swimming & Snorkelling W’end - Malta*

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

Spice Book Club - Solihull Ten Pin Bowling (Acocks Green) Simple Sewing Workshop with Celebratory Cake!

Breadmaking Workshop Hobson's Choice Preview Evening in Edgbaston Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

David Gilmour: Live at Pompeii Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton Sutton Pub Night

Edmunds Fine Dining Creating with Clay - Make a Teddy Bear!

Earlswood Twilight Ramble & Supper The Mary Ashford Mystery

Elizabeth I at Tutbury Castle with Supper Murder Mystery Evening with Three Course Dinner

Abseiling for the Terrified Jayne Eyre Llama Trek & Rare Breeds Farm Visit with Lunch Open Cockpits Night at RAF Cosford Preston Bagott Easy Ramble & Lunch

Wood Carving Exp. Cinema Night & Meal Drumming for Beginners Ironbridge to Bridgnorth Raft Day & BBQ Newton Burgoland Ramble Owl Hour Peak District Walk Stone Carving Day Tewkesbury Abbey, Odda's Chapel & Battles Ramble

Fun Sailing W’end with Torbay Sea School & Rib Ride Grassington 1940s Bunk Barn W’end*

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

JCB VIP Visit & Breakfast Spice Death Club

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Swing Dance Classes with Dawn's Jitterbug

Trick Horse Riding Badminton – Sutton Badminton for Free sessions at: Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton

Balloon Modelling for Fun Horse Archery La Nonna Italian Dinner Shuffle Tango Moderno

Spice Hits Town at the Jam House Dirty Dancing Live Music Night at Conkers

Greek Party Night at Santorini Hoola Hooping Kedleston Hall Visit/Tea Learn to Drift at Donington Park Race Circuit Treasures of the Museum

How to Make Friends & Influence People Ironbridge Canoe & Kayak Medieval Jousting Microlighting Experience Napton on the Hill Ramble Paragliding - Tandem Paragliding Day Course Peak District Walk Rodney's Pillar Hard Walk Urban Ramble & Brunch

Bunkhouse W’end Walking & Dolphin Watching Horse Riding W’ends Walking W’end Beddegelert Snowdonia Sunday One Night Special with Aled Jones in Norfolk

25

26

27

28

29

30

Preview Evening (Dudley)

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park Tamworth & Lichfield Pub Night Swing Dance

Zing! The Choir Badminton Sutton Billesley, Coventry & Wolverhampton

Eat Messy at Nosh & Quaff!

Salsa Dance Workshop

Barn Dance & Supper

BBC Behind the Scenes Hangliding - Tandem Ocean Film Festival Ramble, Scramble, Dangle Tamworth Castle Evening Tipton Disc. Walk (& Pie!)

Butlin's 80's Party W’end Grantown on Spey Break Walking W’end Norfolk

Spice West Midlands, Ryknild House, Burnett Road, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B74 3EL Tel: 0121 353 6161 Email: richard@spicebham.com Website: www.spicebham.com * Denotes event is full – wait list only

Meals & Party Nights Party Nights are a big part of our programme. Throughout the year we alternate between posh affairs & simple disco’s, city centre & out of town to cater for every taste and pocket.

As some of our party’s have up to 500 capacity, they can be a little daunting if you don’t already know a few people and it’s difficult for us all to look after people individually. That’s why we don’t recommend them as good ‘first events’ to go to on your own unless you are very confident and outgoing.

Dining with Spice is always an experience, and we seek to provide you with experiences that are unusual, and, where possible absolutely unique and exclusive to Spice. All our meals are very sociable, so don’t worry if you don’t know many people – most of us are in exactly the same boat - but the group soon develops into one ‘happy family’. If you are brand new to Spice, however, let the office know and we’ll try to introduce you to some new friends on the night – or choose a “dinner shuffle”!

Barn Dance & Supper .. a cracking night in a the barn! th

Date: Friday 29 September 2017 Place: Wishaw Country Sports, just off the A446 near The Belfry Hotel (B76 9PQ) # Meet: Arrive from 7.30pm, Band 8pm to 11pm. Food 9pm Cost: £20 (£23 Guest) includes hot buffet supper This is one of those well loved events that we run again, again & again! The same successful formula of great music, an authentic rural location & great food has been arranged. Music is provided live by 4 piece band Fiddlers Elbow, who bring us the best jigs and country sounds from Irish and Scottish roots. They’ll explain all the moves – which we all get wrong – and it's a great opportunity to mix, as you are never with one partner for long. Don't worry if you can't dance, none of us can .. it’s great fun trying! There are even fine country ales on tap!

Songs from the Shows & Abba Cabaret Night .. West End quality show & 3 course dinner st

Date: Friday 1 September 2017 Place: Barston Lakes, Solihull (B92 0LB) # Meet: Around 7.30pm TBC # Cost: £27 (£29 Guest) Incl: Live entertainment, 3 course meal, host & booking fees This is a great venue and we have been waiting for the right show to come along for us to have a Spice visit. Richard has seen this act at a high end corporate function in London and can vouch for the superb quality of their work. Their Musicals show is a fantastic West End Theatre tribute featuring all the best musicals from the biggest shows around including Les Miserables & Phantom of the Opera, followed by an amazing tribute to ABBA that must be seen to be believed.

The Venue: The Lake at Barston is a 250 seat restaurant resort with stunning views over the 21 acre Barston Lake, the West Midlands Golf Club and the surrounding countryside. Members who have been speak of excellent food and service.

Note: This is not a Spice exclusive. We have held 3 tables for Spice and there will be a Spice Host to ensure we all mix together. These nights are very popular so please book early. We will have to confirm numbers and return any unsold tickets at least a month before the show. As this is a ticketed event, we can only refund on cancellation if we can resell.

Spanish Dinner Shuffle .. enjoy this excellent Edgbaston restaurant th

Date: Thursday 5 October 2017 Place: Harborne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham (B15 3BU) Meet: 7.15 for 7.30pm Cost: £29 (£32 Guest) includes meal & service Alfonso and Emma met 10 years ago working in one of Birmingham's best restaurants. They found a mutual love for delicious but unfussy food and excellent service. The big "10 year dream" was always to open in Edgbaston, and after opening 3 different tapas Bars around Shropshire and the West Midlands they have managed to open El Borracho De Oro on Harborne Road, in Edgbaston’s heart. Tapas is always popular with Spice, as it is such a sociable way of dining together. So join us for an evening of Tapas and a Churros & Chocolate Dessert.

Menu: You can see menu at www.spicebham.com but there’s no need to order as we get the lot – tapas style

Important Note about Dinner Shuffles Some of our meals are run as “dinner shuffles”. On these occasions we move people around between courses so that we all get to meet lots of people. It works really well. However, I just wanted to stress that you should only book one of these events if you are prepared to enter into the spirit and move when asked to by the coordinator. These nights will not work otherwise

1

Moroccan/ Middle East Inspired Dinner Shuffle .. discover the wonderful flavours of Arabia Date: Thursday 13th July 2017 Place: Marston Farm Hotel - directions below (B76 9JD) Meet: 7.45pm for 8.00pm Cost: £29 (£32 Guest) Includes: Themed dinner, Spice coordinator This was the most popular in our series of international dinner shuffles at the delightfully secluded, historic hotel – so we’ve decided to run it again. The chef at Marston Farm has worked in many fine restaurants around the globe, so he loves the challenge of Spice “dining around the world”. The hotel was formerly a private home of Sir Robert Peel and also has a beautiful courtyard. We will have our own private area where we can dine and shuffle. See menu details online.

New Members Kababish Sunday Lunch Buffet .. enjoy an authentic Punjabi buffet with new friends Sunday 23rd July 2017 Note: This event also ties into the New Members Easy Ramble) Jockey Rd, Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield (B73 5XP) 1.30pm prompt £13 (£14 Guest) Our package is the restaurants’ set 2 course buffet of starters & mains but Spice also get popadoms and a first drink (large glass of wine, pint of beer or soft drink) An opportunity for those who have recently joined the group to socialise with other newbies (although established members are also more than welcome to book). This event also ties in with the end of our New Members Ramble so we hope that some of the ramblers will be joining us for lunch. A Spice favourite, The Kababish is a family run restaurant, famous for offering authentic, traditional and contemporary Asian cuisine. The food has been created with an exotic collection of herbs & spices distinctively blended in the traditional ways of the Punjab and North West Frontier.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Harvey Nichols Restaurant Dinner Shuffle .. discover this swish new restaurant Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

th

Friday 4 August 2017 The Mailbox, Birmingham (B1 1RE) 7.30pm £28.50 (£30.50 Guest) Incl: 3 courses, cocktail on arrival & 10% service charge We’ve also added some extra side orders to share What could be more civilized than dining in the fine dining restaurant at the Harvey Nichols store in Birmingham?

We are sitting down at 7pm but if you can always get there earlier for a spot of posh shopping first! We have a set 3 course menu which includes a cocktail on arrival. We have also ordered some extra “side orders” of fries and vegetables.

Important: We have just 16 places as it is not a large restaurant, so please book quickly if you want to be there. Also, they need our menu choices well in advance, so please give your choices when booking from the menu online.

Boathouse at Bracebridge .. exquisite lakeside dining in Sutton Park th

Date: Thursday 10 August 2017 Place: Sutton Park – Access has to be via Four Oaks Gate, Four Oaks Rd (B74 2YR) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: £25 (£26.50 Guest) incl: 3 courses, carafe of wine (or a soft drink), teas/coffees & 10% service This restaurant must have one of the most fantastic settings in our area. We’ll dine overlooking Bracebridge Pool in Sutton Park in a great restaurant that boasts well cooked, well presented modern English food in a simple yet rustic décor. Fish dishes are a speciality and there’s good wine and friendly service. It’s a Spice favourite we come back to again and again!

Menu: The Spring menu has not been finalised, but expect a choice of at least 3 starters, 3 mains (including, fish, meat and vegetarian options), 3 dessert options and coffees to finish. If you need the exact menu, please call nearer time.

Important Note about Dinner Shuffles Some of our meals are run as “dinner shuffles”. On these occasions we move people around between courses so that we all get to meet and talk to lots of people. It works really well. However, I just wanted to stress that you should only book one of these events if you are prepared to enter into the spirit and move when asked to by the coordinator. These nights will not work otherwise. We do understand that you may be in an interesting conversation or with someone you know. But it spoils the night for everyone if you let this get in the way of the shuffle. If you think this may be a problem, please do not book a meal with “shuffle” in the title.

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Prison Lunch at Sudbury .. cooked by prisoners .. but no porridge in sight!

Date: Tuesday 22nd August 2017 Place: HM Prison Sudbury near Ashbourne (DE6 5HW) Meet: 11.50am for 12noon Cost: £7 (£8.50 Guest) Includes: 3 course meal, plus teas/coffees. Spice coordinator This is a rather unusual event, but don’t worry, it’s not as bad as the photo suggests (honest!)! Sudbury’s Private Diner is actually a training restaurant for prisoners. The Secret Diner is situated just outside the main gates and acts as the staff mess for prison officers but it’s also open to the public and, without ever advertising, it has built up a big customer base.

But it has a more important role, in preparing prisoners for a return to the outside world. Read more on our website.

Modern British Dinner Shuffle at Moor Hall .. discover The Oak Room at this lovely country hotel & spa Date: Thursday 17th August 2017 Place: Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield (B75 6LN) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: £28 (£30 Guest) Incl: 3 courses, Kir Royale on arrival, teas/coffees, Spice host Moor Hall Hotel & Spa is a four star country house hotel set in beautiful parkland. The award winning AA Rosette Oak Room restaurant was the original dining room of Sir Edward Ansell in the 1900s and it offers the perfect combination of delicious food and friendly attentive service. The Head Chef uses only the best of fresh, local and seasonal ingredients to create modern British dishes that are cooked with imagination and served with style. The Oak Room restaurant was awarded an AA Rosette in January 2014 for culinary excellence - judging that food is prepared with care, understanding and skill, using good quality ingredients. Menu awaited – please check for updates late July at at www.spicebham.com

Pie Factory Night with Live Music .. a night of live music & Black Country gluttony! th

Date: Friday 25 August 2017 Place: Tipton near Dudley (See below) (DY4 9AB) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: £18 (£19.50 Guest) Incl: 2 course meal & reserved seating by stage This place is quite an institution! We call in there when we do Black Country Bus trips, and no-one wants to leave!

We have booked up to 40 seats at large tables beside the live music. The atmosphere is always great. People are usually encouraged to get up and dance around the tables and generally 'let their hair down'. The ales are pretty good there as well!

The live music: Yet to be finalized. The Menu (please give choice when booking) is on our website - enjoy!

Edmunds Fine Dining Experience .. discover the best of French fine dining together Date: Thursday 14th September 2017 Place: Six Brindley Place, Birmingham (B1 2JB) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: £55 (£59 Guest) Incl: 3 course meal (plus 2 intermediary courses) &12.5% service We are delighted to have linked up with one of our finest restaurants to offer a really special gastronomic experience. With views over Brindley Place, expect tables dressed in pristine crisp white cotton, polished glassware and shining cutlery.

Their French Chef creates menus using the finest locally sourced produce, following the British seasons. See menu online.

La Nonna Italian Dinner Shuffle .. enjoy traditional Italian home cooking st

Date: Thursday 21 September 2017 Place: 16 Arden Oak Rd, Sheldon (B26 3LX) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: £28.50 (£32 Guest) Incl: 3 courses, coffees & Spice coordinator. Extra: Tips Since 1969 this family restaurant has been delighting diners with traditional & authentic Italian recipes cooked as they would be in an Italian home. This venue has been highly recommended by members and we had great feedback last time.

Menu: We will be taking pre orders when booking, please see the full menu at www.spicebham.com 3

Greek Party Night at Santorini .. great food, dancing & Mediterranean partying rd

Date: Saturday 23 September 2017 Place: 16 Hurst Street, Birmingham (opposite Hippodrome) (B5 4BN) Meet: 8pm for 8.15pm start Cost: £25 (£27.50 Guest) Deposit £5. Incl: Meal, entertainment and Spice Coordinator We think we’ve found the best place for a Greek Night this side of the Plaka in Athens! A favourite haunt of John Barrowman when he’s in Birmingham (see pictures on their website) and many other theatre types, Santorini is right opposite the Hippodrome in the centre of Birmingham. The owners and staff are extremely friendly and the food is freshly and lovingly prepared (check out the reviews!). We also plan for some Greek Dancing (participative of course!), a visit from a Belly Dancer (not really Greek, but who’s complaining?), singing and no doubt traditional plate smashing!

We’ve got a large private room and have been promised a great Spice night out. They don’t have to close until 6am (yes, really!) although we’ll understand if you can’t stay quite that late! We are limited to around 100 places – so

Eat Messy at Nosh & Quaff! .. discover the home of Ribs & Lobster th

Date: Thursday 28 September 2017 Place: 130 Colmore Row, Birmingham (B3 3AP) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: Choose Menu: (A) £16 (Burger or Veggie), (B) £25 (Ribs) or (C) £35 (Lobster) Incl: 2 course meal chosen, 10% service charge and Spice host Nosh and Quaff is Birmingham’s most irresistible one-stop, feel-good venue. Excellent lobster and ribs are the undoubted rock stars of the show but these are complimented by simpler options – but all the food will involve involve your fingers!

It’s fun and it’s messy and it is the creation of the Lasan Group of unusual independent Birmingham restaurants who we know to have very high standards in service and cuisine – so our expectations are set high!

Menus: Sorry if this looks complicated but as there is a huge price difference between the main course options we have decided to give a choice of 3 price points to choose from. These are 2 course menus (details online) but if you want to order a dessert or coffees or want a side order such as fries with your main, you can do so on the night and pay directly.

Lasan Indian Banquet .. experience one of the UK's Top 10 Indian Restaurants Date: Wednesday 11th October 2017 Place: James Street, St. Pauls Sq, Birmingham (B3 1SD) Meet: 7pm Cost: £39 (£42 Guest) includes two courses & service Forty quid for an Indian! Sounds a lot, but trust us. This is not just any other Indian restaurant. Voted one of the Top 10 Indian Restaurants in the UK by The Independent & The Times, Lasan’s success is further reinforced by the restaurants inclusion in the Michelin Guide and glowing praise from many food critics and journalists. Lasan has also recently won the prestigious Gordon Ramsey F Word title. So it’s only right that Spice experience Birmingham’s ultimate Indian night!

They seeks to offer Indian food with a light contemporary edge. No need to pre order, as we get the lot! All items on a long menu are presented across the table, so that we are able to share and taste each and every dish. Details online.

Meat Feast Brazilian Dining .. sociable, Brazillian Churrascaria dining Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Thursday 12 October 2017 The Cube, Birmingham (B1 1RS) 7.30pm £27.50 (£29 Guest) Includes: 2 course “all you can eat” package as described & 10% Service. There will be a Spice host. Extras: Dessert if required Welcome to a truly unique dining experience at Birmingham’s first and only authentic Brazilian Churrascaria (pron. shoehass-korea). Here, an extensive selection of grilled meat is served directly from the charcoal grill by experienced passadors (meat carvers) passing from table to table slicing grilled meat from their skewers right into your plate. You choose what you would like from a wide selection of grilled meats, including Leg of lamb, variety of cuts of Beef, from Picanha (Cap of Rump steak), rump steak, ribs, Pork (ribs, leg of pork steak), Chicken (Legs, wings, hearts), homemade pork or chicken Sausages and many more! No craving is too large at Rodizio Rico. The waiters will gladly continue to slice up their freshly grilled meats until you can eat no more. A pure carnivore’s delight – all you need is a hearty appetite! ______________________________ 4

Airborne Adventures A collection of events all connected with flying and flying machines!

Helicopter Lesson .. you've got to try this one! th

Date: Sunday 27 August 2017 Place: Wellesbourne Airfield near Stratford on Avon (CV35 9EU) # Meet: 12.45pm for 1pm Briefing Cost: £99 (£105 Guest) Paid as £9 (£15 Guest) deposit to Spice, plus £90 balance paid on the day This is a classic Spice event - you've just got to fly a helicopter one time in your life! We're just sorry we can't make it cheaper, but helicopters are extraordinarily costly to run! This isn't a pleasure flight, it's a lesson - and real occasion.

Your session starts with a briefing on helicopters in general and the controls of the Robinson R22 you’ll be flying. These machines are touch sensitive and challenging. You’ll be in up for 15 memorable minutes. Weight limit 15½ stone (98kg).

Fly a Plane from Coventry to Stratford .. our ultimate fixed wing flying lesson! rd

Date: Sunday 3 September 2017 Place: Coventry Airport (CV8 3AZ) # Meet: Slots from 10am Cost: £129 (£139 Guest) Incl: 30mins flying under instruction & 30 minutes observing Here's a brilliant way to tick off an event that is on almost every “bucket list” – yes, the opportunity to pilot an aircraft!

To make this more special, we’re using a 4 seat aircraft and 2 Spice members will share an hours flying – one taking us to Stratford (Wellesbourne Airfield) and the other flying us home. We will, of course be under expert instruction throughout.

We take off from Coventry with one Spice student in the pilot’s seat beside the instructor and the other observing from the back seat. Half an hour later we land in Stratford where we swap over to return. Much better than a standard lesson.

Balloon Flights .. the altogether more civilised way to fly!

Date: Call us to arrange a convenient date Place: Choose: ● Warwick/Stratford or ● Shugborough Hall, Staffs # Meet: Early morning - to be confirmed with joining details Cost: £145 Member, £149 Guest An experience of a lifetime with a hot air balloon flight. We share this event with public bookings, so call us to arrange.

Gliding Evenings at Stratford .. see Stratford by glider! th

Date: Thursdays: 17 August or 7th September 2017 Place: Stratford on Avon Gliding Club, Snitterfield (CV37 0EX) # Meet: Arrive from 6pm Cost: £40 (£42 Guest): paid as £5 (£7) deposit plus £35 on day by cash/cheque Gliding is one of the adventures which Spice members rave about most. Flying gracefully and quietly, you are at one with your environment, following the air currents and thermals which nature provides - read full details on our website

Spice Wing Walking .. a 'once in a lifetime' Spice experience th

Date: Saturdays: 15 July in Lincoln or 5th Aug or 2nd Sept in Essex Place: Lincoln: Wickenby (LN3 5AX) or Essex: Upminster (RM14 2TN) # Meet: Details to be advised Cost: £435 Member, £445 Guest (Deposit £45) This is one of the most requested Spice events ever and it is BACK in the Spice Programme! Why not come and take a walk with us on top of a Boeing Stearman Biplane. You will take part in display training, with you as the wing walker, on top of the Biplane with you smiling and waving to your friends below. It is an incredible adrenaline event.

Please read the full write up on our website including the strict height and weight restrictions before booking.

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Microlighting Experience Flight .. enjoy a 20 minute flight above Ashbourne!

Sundays: 23rd July or 24th September 2017 Darley Moor Airfield near Ashbourne (DE6 2ET) # Timeslots to be allocated Total cost is £60 (£65 Guests) PAID AS £5 (£10 Guest) deposit to Spice when booking PLUS a balance of £55 directly to the supplier on arrival.

These flights are with an instructor, in a dual controlled microlight, so you can have a go with the controls if you wish or just sit back and enjoy the experience! We start with a full briefing on safety procedures & equipment. The flight counts as a training flight, so if you want to continue flying by taking up a full course you already have some time which will count towards your full qualification. Unless you state otherwise we book a “flexwing” flight. They do have “3 axis” microlights as well if you prefer, which look more like a conventional aircraft but still have all the benefits of ultra light flight!

Note: Event is weather dependent and a weather check number will be provided. Weight limit 17stone (110kg).

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Paragliding Day Course .. a perfect days introduction to the sport!

Sundays: 23 July or 24th September 2017 Darley Moor Airfield near Ashbourne (DE6 2ET) # 9am to 5pm Total cost is £145 (£150 Guests) but this is paid as £10 (£15 guests) deposit when booking PLUS the balance of £130 direct to the supplier on arrival Paragliding is a fabulous experience. This day is designed to provide all the info you need to decide if flying is for you and they are normally able to get students flying low solo flights by the end of the day. This is also the way to start if you’re interested in Paramotoring, as you need to be able to paraglide before you can progress to motors. If this interests you, let the team know and they’ll show you some motor units and let you try them on!

Note: Event is weather dependent and a weather check number will be provided. Weight limit 15 stone (95kg).

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Paragliding - Tandem Experience .. experience a short but dramatic paraglide!

Sundays: 23 July or 24th September 2017 Darley Moor Airfield near Ashbourne (DE6 2ET) # Timeslots to be allocated Cost is £55 (£59 Guests) PAID AS £5 (£9 Guest) deposit to Spice when booking PLUS a balance of £50 directly to the supplier on arrival Get the closest feeling to everyone’s dream of truly free flight. Flying with an instructor and towed up by a winch to around 500 -700 feet, you can either help to pilot the paraglider, or just sit back and admire the views of the beautiful Derbyshire countryside. The experience starts with a full briefing then a 5-10 minute flight depending on conditions.

Note: Event is weather dependent and a weather check number will be provided. Weight limit 15 stone (95kg).

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Hangliding - Tandem Experience by Air Tow .. an awesome experience at 3000 feet!

Saturdays: 22 July or 30th September 2017 Darley Moor Airfield near Ashbourne (DE6 2ET) # Timeslots to be allocated Cost is £199 (£204 Guests) PAID AS £20 (£25 Guest) deposit to Spice when booking PLUS a balance of £179 directly to the supplier on arrival You’re towed behind a microlight to 3000ft (or cloudbase) in the company of an experienced instructor. Once the towline is jettisoned you’ll glide free and silent in complete awe of the spectacular views overlooking the beautiful Peak District.

You may even take the controls and fly the hang glider yourself or enjoy the thrill of limited aerobatics. As one member said, it’s “rather like flying with Superman”! The hang glider has an undercarriage for easier take-off and landing.

Notes: Cost reflects the need for both a crewed hanglider and a crewed microlight. There is a weight limit of 95kg.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our schedules on line at www,spicebham.com so you don’t miss a thing. We also update members on a weekly basis with out “Weekly Bulletin” by email and via our Facebook Page.

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Tandem Skydive from 12,000ft .. treat yourself to the ultimate adventure! th

Date: Saturdays: 9 July, 6th August or 9th September 2017 Place: Hibaldstow, near Scunthorpe (DN20 9NN) # Meet: Details to be confirmed Cost: £259 (£269 Guest) paid as deposit of £40 (£50 Guest) to Spice plus balance on the day The ultimate adventure on every “bucket list”! With a tandem jump, you’re strapped to an instructor so get the full freefall thrill straight off! Make sure you read the full event writeup at our website as there are rules and restrictions on this one.

Flight Simulator Experience .. pilot a 737 with absolute reality th

Date: Saturdays: 12 August or 21st October 2017 Place: Sywell Aerodrome in Northamptonshire (NN6 0BN) # Meet: Slots from 2pm Cost: £59 (£64 Guest) Step inside this fully functional Boeing 737 simulator cockpit for 20 minutes of cross-country flight with an experienced pilot instructor, from engine start to shut-down. The Boeing 737 Next Generation simulator really is state of the art. Every dial, switch, instrument and anything else you can find in the cockpit works exactly as it would in the real aircraft.

Indoor Skydiving .. yes you really can fly! th

Date: Saturday 7 October 2017 Place: Central Milton Keynes (MK9 3XS) # Meet: 12.30pm start Cost: £43 Member, £45 Guest Includes: A high quality digital photo to download Imagine a wind tunnel that can be used for testing the aerodynamics of an F1 racing car, turn it upright, step into the airflow and you’re skydiving. It's a proven concept operating in several countries to the benefit of the skydiving community and anyone else who wishes to taste the thrill of freefall. Read more at at www.spicebham.com

Richard Griffin’s Tandem Hanglide “Measure your life not by the number of breaths you breathe .. but by the moments that take your breath away”

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Are you officially Amazing?

You could be once you have completed 10 challenging events. What better talking point for your CV! See your member handbook or visit www.spiceuk.com/amazing.asp or call us for details.

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Animal Encounters & Equestrian Lots of fun embracing the animal kingdom

Wake up the Zoo .. get behind the scenes of a busy Zoo! th

Date: Sundays 9 July or 15th October 2017 Place: Dudley Zoo, Dudley (DY1 4QB) # Meet: 8.40am start Cost: £35 (£39 Guests) includes full English Breakfast Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at a major zoo before it opens to visitors each day? What food is prepared for every animal and what else has to be done before the visitors arrive? Well now you can in our guided tour with a keeper, who will take you behind the scenes. At the end of a busy morning we will go to the cafe for a full English Breakfast. After which you are free to explore the zoo at your own pace from the visitor’s side of the fence this time!

Horse Riding Fun Day! .. lots of fun for riders of all levels - from beginners to advanced Date: Sunday: 30th July 2017 Place: Warwick International, Guys Cliff (CV34 5YD) – see online Meet: 10.00am to approx 3.30pm Cost: £65 (£70 Guest) On arrival, we’ll be assessed and split into separate groups depending on our ability, and then get a varied programme of lessons, hacks, jumping, riding around the grounds etc depending upon what you can achieve. The afternoon includes fun games such as gymkhanas. There are plenty of opportunities to win rosettes! We’ll be entertained for the whole day and should get at around 4 hours on horseback! Just bring a packed lunch.

Pony Trekking for Beginners & Picnic .. an idylic new trek in the Wye Valley th

Date: Saturday 19 August 2017 Place: Smallbrook Farm, Forest of Dean (GL15 6AE) # Meet: 10.45am for 11am Cost: £49 (£55 Guest). Includes: Equipment, instruction & picnic lunch. Max weight 15st We’re guests of Alasdair & Moira again. But this time we’re not here for the Llamas, but to enjoy some pony trekking on their delightful rescued ponies. We meet our hosts at their farm, where they have a lovely collection of rare breed and rescued animals for us to meet including wild boar and llamas. They have now trained a large collection rescued trekking ponies. Each has a story to tell, bbut they all are now safe on the farm and have been meticulously trained for trekking.

Our Special Beginners Day: This day is aimed at people who are totally new to pony trekking. If your last experience of equine’s was a donkey on Blackpool Beach then this is for you – although everyone is welcome! We start by collecting our horses and learning how to saddle them up. Alasdair will explain all the basics of working with horses. When everyone is happy, we start off in the arena where you can get to know your pony, how to sit, how to hold the reigns. You’ll learn to walk your horse and progress to a trot. Next we’ll have a simple farmhouse picnic before we go trekking for real by taking our ponies into the Forest where there is some exceptional scenery also to enjoy in this unspoilt part of Gloucestershire.

It’s a relaxed day that will also include the opportunity to meet some of the rare breeds who live on this special farm.

RSPB Autumn Stroll .. see nature in its autumn beauty th

Date: Saturday 14 October 2017 Place: RSPB Visitor Centre, Sandwell Valley (B43 5AG) Meet: 10.45am for 11.00am and 1.00pm Cost: £7.50 Member, £9 Guest Today we are on a guided tour of the RSPB's only urban reserve, located at the junction of M5 and M6 in a huge bend of the River Tame. We’ll have a walk and talk with our RSPB expert, and try to spot some of the Autumn visitors. You may see, Water Rail, snipe, Shoveler, Teale and Wigeon. Habitats include: lake, river, marsh, reedbed, willow scrub, meadow, old hedgerow and new scrape. Species include Water Rail, Jack Snipe, Reed and Grasshopper Warblers, Little Ringed Plover, Kingfisher, Little and Great Crested Grebes, Little Owl, Skylark, Willow Tit, winter thrushes, Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, plus numerous varieties of finches, tits and warblers. Past rarities include: Great Snipe, Spoonbill and Goshawk. Refreshments are available to buy such as hot drinks and snacks. Just dress for walking.

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Bat Night in Sutton Park .. discover these fascinating creatures of the night!

Date: Saturday 26th August 2017 Place: Streetly Gate, Thornhill Road, Sutton Coldfield (B74 3EW) Meet: 7.15pm for 7.30pm - 9.30pm Cost: £9 Member, £11 Guest Bats have many places in literature and history, and serve roles both dark and hilarious depending on where you find them!

Probably the most common association with the bat is with vampires, but there is also the fun-loving bat from Ferngully (Batty Coda) along with a host of other characters from literature and cinema. But bats have an important role to play in our eco-system, and some of them are becoming endangered. This evening we have linked up with Sutton Park Ranger Service to take a look at these night time creatures using bat detectors and create awareness about these flying rodents.

Bird of Prey Photography .. discover the skills with a professional th

Date: Sunday 13 August 2017 Place: Ash End House Farm, Middleton Lane, Middleton (B78 2BL) Meet: 10.45am for 11am - 2pm session Cost: £45 Member, £49 Guest (Deposit £10) The day starts at 11.00am at the Bird of Prey centre located within Ash End House Farm. After a brief introduction to the birds and Eclipse Team, we will head out into the field to photograph a selection of the Eclipse birds in natural settings at various locations. We’ll have the opportunity to photograph birds on static display, simulated hunting and falcon flight shots. Professional wildlife photographer Scott Latham will be on hand to offer advice on obtaining the best shots.

Meet the Meerkats Experience .. get up close with these wonderful creatures nd

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Saturday 22 July 2017 Priorslee, Telford (TF2 9UR) # Slots every hour from 10am £25 (£29 Guests) Includes: At least 30 minutes with Meerkats & their keeper plus time meeting other animals, light refreshments, Spice Coordinator and free time at the centre We’ve had fab feedback from our previous events here, with several members saying it was their favourite event – ever!

The keeper Ryan is infectiously enthusiastic and obviously loves his Meerkat family. Read lots more online

Owl Hour .. get up close & fly these beautiful birds th

Date: Sunday 17 September 2017 Place: Blakedown, Nr Hagley (DY9 0JB) Meet: Meet 4.15pm for 4.30pm until 5.30pm Cost: £38 (£40 Guest) This new owl experience which will allow us to get up close and fly these beautiful birds at the end of centre's day. After a short introduction and brief as how to fly the owls you will fly at least 5 different species of owl. The owls flown are from a selection of: Little Owl, Chaco Owl, Barn Owl, Tawny Owl, Snowy Owl, Long-eared Owl, Asian Brown Wood Owl and different species of Eagle Owls (we can never guarantee which species will be flown on each session).

Deer Walk with a Ranger at Bradgate Park .. a deer walk in search of the magnificent Red Deer Stag!

Date: Sunday 8th October 2017 Place: Bradgate, Leceistershire (LE6 0HE) # Meet: 10.50am for 11am Start Cost: £5 (£6.50 Guest) Extra: £4 for car parking We have arranged for a Bradgate ranger to take us on a guided deer walk at rutting time, when we have a chance of spotting their famous red stags. It’s an easy walk of around 1½ hours. Other than the Scottish Glens, Bradgate Park is the best place to catch a glimpse of those “hard”, powerful red deer stags. And there’s no better time to visit than during their annual rut when these magnificent, handsome deer will be looking their best. Despite standing over 6 feet tall and being the largest British land mammal, these beautiful animals are wary and can be very elusive.

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Medieval Jousting .. join the special few who have tried this event! th

Date: Sundays: 9 July or 24th September 2017 Place: Warwick International, Guys Cliff (CV34 5YD) # Meet: 9.15am - 5pm Cost: £175 Member, £185 Guest A unique opportunity to learn the ultimate medieval art, with The Knights of Middle England. Our day is run by Karl UdeMartinez who has years of experience performing live jousting shows all over Europe. For obvious safety reasons, we’re not allowed to actually hit each other– and such bravery is not deemed culturally appropriate to the modern age! However, we use a quintaine (or dummy) to take the impact. On arrival we’ll be given a safety briefing and your riding will be assessed. You’ll learn basic jousting skills such as hitting the quintaine and learn basic sword and staff fighting. Being a knight also involves you being dressed up in medieval costume. Riding experience not essential, but clearly an advantage.

Horse Archery .. learn to fire from horseback!

Date: Thursday 21st September 2017 Place: Warwick International, Guys Cliff (CV34 5YD) # Meet: Times TBC Cost: £95 Member, £99 Guest For all of you that want to unleash an array of arrows from your horse! This ½ day session includes a brief introduction on the ground where we’ll learn to “nock our arrows”, “blind nocking” and get used to firing with the designated horse bows.

Then we move from the ground to our horses to practice firing at the targets from a moving horse. A 100m runway – 3 targets to hit – can you strike the gold? No riding experience necessary! We’ll be taught by Karl Ude Martinez, a trained and qualified, Equity registered stunt man as well as being master horseman with Knights of Middle England display team.

Trick Horse Riding .. can you do it? Yes you can!

Date: Wednesday 20th September 2017 Place: Warwick International, Guys Cliff (CV34 5YD) # Meet: Times TBC Cost: £95 Member, £99 Guest Equity meets Equine today, as it’s a rare chance to be taught by Karl Ude Martinez, a trained and qualified, Equity registered stunt man as well as being master horseman with Knights of Middle England display team. You may have seen him or the ‘Knights’ in hit TV series ‘Merlin’ or Russell Crowes’ ‘Robin Hood’. Within the safety of an enclosed arena with specially trained horses on the lunge rein you will learn the basics of classical vaulting techniques performing gymnastic manoeuvres on the back of a moving horse. We’ll learn a variety of basic vaults, tricks and stands.

Llama Trek & Farm Visit with Lunch .. an idylic new trek in the Wye Valley th

Date: Saturday 16 September 2017 Place: Smallbrook Farm, Forest of Dean (GL15 6AE) # Meet: 11am Cost: £49 (£55 Guest). Includes: Picnic lunch on the farm afterwards There’s nothing more stress relieving than trekking with animals, and today we’re out with pack animals from various continents! We will definitely have llamas with us, plus two rescued donkeys who we will all get to drive from thier trap.

We’re the guests of Alasdair and Moira Fraser, who have nurtured an unusual collection of pack animals in a most scenic and unspoilt area of calm and natural beauty. We start and end at their farm where they have a lovely collection of rare breed animals for us to meet including wild boar which we may be able to feed! The trek is around 7 miles of very easy walking and if you do get tired, you can always take a ride in the trap! ______________________________

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Spice Makes a Difference Spice members love supporting the community – either in practical help (like on litter picking walks) or by raising huge amounts of cash for good causes. Our involvement with charities also enables us to offer some absolutely unique experiences – so with these events everyone wins!

As well as these, you will find other events under other categories which promote social awareness and support selected charities, including some of our Behind the Scenes visits.

Spice Book Club .. discuss a book each month over tea & cakes!

Dates: Mondays: ● 3 Jul ● 4th Sep ● 2nd Oct ● 6th Nov 2017 Place: Inside Spice Office, Ryknild House, Burnett Rd, Streetly (B74 3EL) Meet: 8pm Start (ends around 9.30pm) Cost: FREE, but collection for Book Aid on day In order to have a sociable literary evening each month and raise money for Book Aid International (www.bookaid.org) we have a monthly meet up at the Spice office. The idea is that each month we discuss a set book that we have read in preparation. The conversation will be led by our volunteer, Kate Coulter, but is very informal. Kate will provide teas/ coffees/mineral water and some home baked treats. A voluntary collection is taken for Book Aid. Book list on our website. rd

Spice Book Club - Solihull .. discuss a book each month with Spice friends Date: Mondays: ● 10th July ● 11th Sept ● 9th Oct 2017 Place: Happy Heart Cafe, 26 Richmond Rd, Olton (B92 7RP) Meet: 7pm prompt (ends 9pm) Extras: No charge to book, but collection for Book Aid. Also, take some change for any drinks/ cakes We have a thriving Book Club in Sutton, so it seemed about time for us to offer a similar event to members in the south of our area. This has been made possible by our member Alex Ajao to run these evenings as a volunteer. This is an experiment to see if there is interest, however, if it proves popular we intend to run it regularly. We have rented this lovely café for 2 hours. We can buy drinks from 7pm to 7.15pm after which the staff will leave us alone for the night. The venue isn’t licensed but you can bring your own alcohol. Format is as Sutton club, with charity collection. See book list online.

Spice Death Club .. a Spice take on the popular “Death Café” th

Dates: Monday 18 September 2017 Place: Inside Spice Office, Ryknild House, Burnett Rd, Streetly (B74 3EL) Meet: 8pm Start (ends around 9.30pm) Cost: FREE, but collection for Book Aid on day Yes, you did read this right. And no, we’re not going mad! You may have heard of the popularity of an international organisation called Death Café who meet all over the world to empower people by discussing the subject of death. We are not part of that organisation, but we have on our team a very experienced facilitator who is a bereavement specialist and has offered to run a Spice evening along the same principals. If popular it could become regular! The idea is simply to gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death. The objective is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives. Like Death Cafe it will be a group directed discussion of death with no agenda, objectives or themes. We will all have our own experiences, yet we must be clear that this is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counselling session. We all have one life and one death. A healthy understanding and attitude towards death can certainly help us to make the very most of our life. The best way to break the power of a taboo (even this, the final one) is to talk about it freely. Our facilitator, Adam Page is a professional bereavement specialist and works for the respected charity Cruse Bereavement Care who we will have a collection for tonight. Read more Online.

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Cycling & Mountain Biking Biking is great fun and our instructors, will ensure you have fun whether you're peddling along a country lane, or trying to reach the summit of a craggy peak! The rides are lead by experienced guides (unless otherwise stated) who also act as bike doctors should anybody's bike fall poorly.

If you use your own bike it must be in reasonable condition and suitable for the type of event described.

Also, you MUST bring & wear a helmet (usually provided with hire bikes, but check).

Social Cycle - Kenilworth to Hatton .. sociable cycling at a relaxing pace! th

Date: Sunday 16 July 2017 Place: Kenilworth Castle main car park (CV8 1NE) # Meet: 10.45am for 11am Cost: £6 (£7 Guest) Extra: Car Park £3 Optional entry to Castle £12 (but will refund car park) This circular ride is about 20 miles long with some gentle climbs on mixed surfaces including cycleways, canal tow paths, quite country lanes, some field tracks and a very short section on a fast A road. We will not be “racing off” but it is not suitable for beginners or the totally unfit. We pass through fields and tracks to Prospect Hill then on to the edge of Warwick to the tow path of the Grand Union Canal. We follow this to arrive at Hatton Locks cafe and then onwards to village of Beasucale and Haseley Green . We pass Fen End, skirt Balsall Common and then join the Kenilworth Greenway to return to the Castle. You can then join us at the Queen’s Head or choose to visit Kenilworth or enter the Castle.

Bike Ride - Forest Of Dean .. a gentle ride to a pub! th

Date: Sunday 6 August 2017 Place: Cannop Valley, Nr Coleford (GL16 7EH) # Meet: 10.45am at Pedalabikeaway Cycle Centre Cost: £5 (£6 Guest) Extras: Bike Hire if required, Packed Lunch We'll be taking a circular route based upon the Family Trail and we’ll be stopping for Sunday Lunch at a Pub (pay on day).

Once fed and watered we’ll continue for the final hour back to our starting point. The ride is approximately 15 miles, 10 miles to the pub and 5 miles back. The road is almost entirely on recognised cycle paths away from the main roads. You can bring your own bike. However we are starting at the Pedalabikeaway Centre who hire bikes (pre order details online)

Social Cycle: Stratford & The Greenway .. enjoy some gentle cycling with friends th

Date: Sunday 13 August 2017 Place: The Four Alls Inn at Welford on Avon (CV37 8PW) # Meet: 10:30am for 10:45am Start (ends around 2pm) Cost: £6 (£7 Guest) A ride with Trevor aimed at members who want a nice cycle ride but don’t want to rush around. This circular ride is about 18 miles on a mixture of quiet roads, hard surfaced cycleways, canal tow paths, and Stratford town centre; it is mainly flat, though is not suitable for beginners due to the distance and the hills in the second half. We set off from Welford on Avon and cycle through the village and out into open countryside on quiet roads via Dorsington and Long Marston, before joining the traffic free Stratford Greenway and we will stop at the cafe in an old railway carriage at the end. We continue into Stratford and down to the riverside. We then pick up Sustrans route 5 that takes us to the excellent canal tow path which we will follow past numerous locks to arrive on the edge of Wilmcote and Mary Arden’s House. We then head down to Shottery past Anne Hathaway’s Cottage before passing through Luddington and back to Welford.

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Bham to Preston Bagot Towpath Cycle .. a lovely day of flat, gentle cycling Date: Sunday 3rd September 2017 Place: Outside Mailbox, City Centre (B1 1RS) # Meet: 10.00am Cost: £9 (£12 Guest) Extras: Train fare back to Birmingham (around £8) Join Richard Coulter and John Rennison to cycle the Worcester & Birmingham and Stratford Canals to Preston Bagot. It’s around 25 miles, but its flat (well, technically it’s downhill!) and on bikes we can achieve it at a relaxed pace with lots of stops to enjoy the scenery. We first ride from The Mailbox Wharf along the Worcester & Birmingham canal as far as Kings Norton. This stretch is surprisingly green right from the start and also includes industrial heritage and, of course, the aroma of chocolate as we pass Bourneville! Here we turn onto The Stratford Canal. We will stop for lunch at the wellknown cycling haunt of Wedges Bakery near Hockley Heath where we can buy food and drinks and take a break. The afternoon will take us down to Lapworth and Kingswood Junction, after which we are treated to the Barrel Roofed Cottages and Split Bridges unique to this half of the Stratford Canal. We’ll leave the canal near Preston Bagot where we can enjoy a well-earned drink at The Crab Mill. From here it is a short ride to Wootton Wawen station for trains back.

Social Cycle: Measham & Moira Furnace .. enjoy some gentle cycling with friends th

Date: Sunday 10 September 2017 Place: Leicestershire / Derbyshire borders (DE12 7HR) # Meet: 10.45am for 11am start Cost: £6 (£7 Guest) Car Park is free but optional entry to Moira Furnace costs £2 Join Trevor for a run social cycle ride with the added bonus of a visit to an attraction after the ride. This circular ride is about 10 miles long on a mixture of cycle ways and quiet roads it is ideal for people who are looking for a social ride with a moderate level of fitness; we will not be “racing off”! We start on Ashby World Heritage Trail. This is a cycle way with only gentle gradients and a packed earth/gravel surface heading north. This will bring us to Moira and the Blast Furnace Museum at the side of the Ashby canal, where there are toilets and a cafe. This is a scheduled ancient monument and one of the best preserved examples of this type of building in Europe. We will then have a short section along a minor road before joining the new cycle trails through Hicks woodland park to arrive at the Hicks Cafe and cycle centre for lunch, where there are toilets. Our route now follows a minor road downhill past Willesley Wood and across a muddy bridge over the A42. We then regain good tarmac and follow a minor road for 2 miles to arrive back at Measham, where we can either retire to the local Bird in the Hand pub or Gill’s Pantry and Tea shop. We expect it to take 2 hours to complete the circuit.

Social Cycle: Walton on Trent & Fradley .. enjoy some gentle cycling with friends th

Date: Sunday 8 October 2017 Place: The Swan Walton on Trent (DE12 8LZ) # Meet: 10.45am for 11am Cost: £6 (£7 Guest) Join Trevor for a some social cycle ride aimed at members who want a nice cycle ride but don’t want to rush around.

This is almost a totally flat route on quiet lanes and tracks incorporating a break half way at the excellent cafe at Fradley Junction; the route it is suitable for novice riders but does include some roads though we will be pottering along at a leisurely pace. This circular ride is about 16 miles. From Walton we climb the only small hill on the whole route, then it is downhill alongside the river Trent past Catton Hall. The route then heads south past a small airfield and on into Fradley before meeting the canal at Fradley Junction where we will sample the delights of David Lancaster’s excellent cafe.

Fired up by the power of homemade cake, we head out again, but north into Alrewas. We pass through the village and then join the canal path to pass through a netherworld of water where the Trent, canals, and open lakes all merge into a beautiful wetland. We eventually come out by the church at Wychnor opposite old earth workings of an abandoned village.

The next 2 miles are along a track, free from cars, until we enter Barton under Needwood and onto The Swan at Walton. ______________________________

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our schedules on line at www,spicebham.com so you don’t miss a thing. We also update members on a weekly basis with out “Weekly Bulletin” by email and via our Facebook Page.

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Dance Workshops You don't need any experience to enjoy these fun events. If the dance involves partners, we'll pair you up on the night - and as we change partners frequently you get to tread on everyone's toes!

Swing Dance Classes (Solihull) .. a fun weekly class with Dawn’s Jitterbug!

Date: Every Tuesday: Check Dates & Availability Online Place: West Warwicks Sports Club, Grange Road Olton Solihull (B91 1DA) Meet: 8pm Start (to 10pm) Cost: £7 (£8.50 Guest) Many Spice members have asked for weekly dance classes so that they can get to know a dance style really well.

In order to so this, we are joining an established weekly class so this one is not a Spice exclusive. However, Sarah (our volunteer coordinator) will be there each week to meet the Spice members and make sure you get to know one another.

Dawn of “Dawn’s Jitterbug” will be teaching us East Coast Swing, Lindy, Jitterbug, 40’s Jive, Charleston and Strolls.

Diverse Dance Mix Workshop! .. a fun aerobic workout created by Darcy Bussell th

Date: Saturday 9 September 2017 Place: Walker Memorial Hall Ampton Road Edgbaston (B15 2UJ) Meet: 1.45pm for 2.00 till 4.00pm Cost: £10 (£12.50 Guest) Diverse Dance Mix is a new fun and entertaining full body aerobic workout created by Darcey Bussell and Nathan Clarke.

The aim of DDMIX is to get people moving without being intimidated by the word 'dance' or the technicality of the steps, but instead to give a full body workout that is such fun that you don't even notice that you are exercising. With the vast number of dance styles around the world to choose from, no one will ever get bored!

Salsa Dance Workshop .. latin Magic for Beginners & Improvers th

Date: Thursday 28 September 2017 Place: Walker Memorial Hall Ampton Road Edgbaston (B15 2UJ) Meet: 7.45pm for 8pm Start (to 10pm) Cost: £10.50 (£12.50 Guest) We get fantastic feedback every time from our Salsa classes, so here is another one for you. Our fabulous teacher Linda is the dance partner to Steve (who ran our classes for the last few years) so why not come along and learn some cool Salsa moves. We get great feedback for these special Spice Nights as the classes are fun and easy to follow, so come on let’s give it a go! Just remember to take some water with you as it can be thirsty work!

Pole Dancing with Pure Joy .. a fun introduction anyone can try!

Date: Saturday 22nd July 2017 Place: 156 - 157 The Warstone Centre,Warstone Lane, (B18 6NZ) Meet: Arrive 1.20pm for 1.30pm - 4.00pm Cost: £20 Member, £23 Guest Join us today in a purpose built studio, fitted with 6 poles, in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. Pole dancing has become one of the most exciting and empowering forms of exercise that you can encounter. This experience is for ladies and gentlemen of all shapes, sizes and ages. The great thing about the experience is that it is fun. A fantastic way to exercise, you will learn new moves that will strengthen and tone your whole body and burn plenty of calories but above all you will have a fun filled experience with new friends. Don’t worry that you will be asked to undress, or do anything that you are uncomfortable with. We’re not learning pole dancing for the sex industry! And you never know, you just might get hooked on this unusual combination of dance, fitness, gymnastic and performance movement (and fun!). ______________________________

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our website, Weekly Bulletin by email and Facebook Page for updates.

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Ian Jelf's England Ian is a legend within Spice. He’s a Blue Badge Guide who’ s really entertaining.

His tours are very different from what you might expect, with lots of offbeat observations and crazy stories that he has researched for us! Allow a couple of hours - more if you get him talking about busses, phone boxes or 2CV’s .. or accept his invitation to the pub afterwards!

Smethwicks' Amazing Canal Walk

Jewellery Quarter Walk & Buffet

.. see an earthworks that rivalled the pyramids!

.. discover this fascinating & unique area

Date: Sunday 6th August 2017 Place: Smethwick Galton Bridge Station (B66 1HU) Meet: 10.30am (allow 3 hours for this tour) Cost: £8.50 (£10.50 Guest) The historic canalside in Smethwick, always aroused a lot of interest and surprise! So here’s a full tour of this important industrial area that includes not only the original Birmingham Canal but also the spectacular Galton Valley, in its day the biggest earthwork in the world! You’ll need good footwear. It’s 3 hours and can't be rushed and involves a fair bit of climbing in places.

So why come? Well, the historic Galton Valley is simply brims with industrial history; 2 grade I listed monuments (the same listing as Westminster Abbey or Saint Paul's!), stories of the working people who made our region and - yes, even in Central Smethwick - an amazingly rural area which is hardly discovered.

There’s a surprise around every corner, so don’t miss it

Date: Sunday 22nd October 2017 Place: Outside Jewellery Quarter Station (B18 6HA) Meet: 10.30am (ends at Henrys for buffet 12.30pm) Cost: £20.50 – Walk & Buffet or £8.50 - Walk only Birmingham’s celebrated Jewellery Quarter is unique in Britain.

It started off as a plush Georgian suburb before succumbing to the advance of small-scale industry. Today, jewellery workshops rub shoulders with retail outlets and modern apartments but the alleyways and squares of this most individual of areas still resound with a past just waiting to be discovered. It really is a fascinating walk with so many stories to tell ..

Buffet: We end at Henrys Cantonese Restaurant on St Paul’s Square, where we will have a hot buffet prepared for us and will have the opportunity to socialise together and enjoy lovely food.

Moseley Village Discovery Walk

.. an atmospheric walk for remembrance Sunday!

Birmingham at War Afternoon Walk Date: Sunday 12th November 2017 Place: Meet by statue of Bull in the Bull Ring (B5 4BG) Meet: 1.30pm Cost: £8.50 (£10.50 Guest) To mark Remembrance Sunday we have a special Birmingham Walk. Bearing in mind the date, we’ll be looking at how our City has been touched by war through the ages. As well as hearing about the Blitz and the home front, we’ll have a few surprises.

War has left us with the curious name of a building, a special place in the history of rationing and several narrow escapes. And this is by no means confined to the two World Wars, as we learn how the Boer War came to Birmingham, a link with the Crimea and going further back where Brummies once fought on their own doorsteps. Even by Ian standards, we reckon this one will be a bit different! The afternoon start follows neatly on from the morning’s ceremonies in Centenary Square which some people might like to see). We end in the Centenary Square area, too.

.. a walk that could be 'Hobbit' forming!

Date: Sunday 3rd September 2017 Place: The Green in middle of Moseley (B13 8HW) Meet: 10.30am Cost: £8.50 (£10.50 Guest) This is one of Ian's most-requested tours! Sylvan Moseley is a place apart with a village atmosphere and is to Birmingham what Hampstead is to London. With its connections with author J.R.R. Tolkien, Moseley has been in the limelight more than ever since the Lord of the Rings films. But we find that there's much more to this elegant suburb, which boats hidden houses (large and small) an ancient church, and even an example of Anglo-Saxon humour.

Tipton Discovery Walk (& Pie!) .. ending at the world famous Pie Factory!

Date: Saturday 30th September 2017 Place: in front of Tipton Railway Station (DY4 8ET) Meet: 10.30am (Ends at Mad O'Rourke's Pie Factory) Cost: £8.50 (£10.50 Guest) Extra: Optional pie after What began as a bit of an experiment (a joke that got out of hand!) has proved to be one of the most interesting walks we offer.

Perhaps it’s the history of Tipton, encompassing the civil War as well as early steamships and cars? Perhaps it’s the hidden canals and Georgian houses? Perhaps it’s Ian’s fascinating commentary?

Or perhaps it’s the chance to enjoy the famous “Pie Factory” after!

Ghost Walk of Sutton Coldfield .. discover the secret life of a Royal Town Date: Wednesday 15th November 2017 Place: Outside MacDonalds - The Parade (B72 1XX) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: £8.50 (£10.50 Guest) The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield has its share of ghost stories and the unexplained, from spectral Roman soldiers to covens of Druids, from a Tudor King to a mysterious Victorian gentleman.

So why not come along and find out more? Bring warm clothing, good shoes and a sense of adventure and discover the darker side of the "Royal Town"! Sutton Coldfield is one of the most ancient settlements within today's Birmingham - for centuries it was far more important than Birmingham. Come and find out more!

Ghostly & Grisly Birmingham Walk .. discover the wicked, cruel & spooky goings on!

Date: Wednesday 25th October 2017 Place: Statue of Victoria in Victoria Square (B3 3DH) Meet: 7.30pm Cost: £8.50 (£10.50 Guest) This is a very special Birmingham walk, ideal for the darker nights. We’re in search of the unexplained, the unexpected and the plain unpleasant as we go delving into Birmingham’s more grisly, ghoulish past! Through the darkened streets we go, hearing tales of a murder (or 2), ghostly theatrical goings on, stories of digging up bodies, the angel of death, ghostly monks and Birmingham’s most (in)famous corpse! Bring a stout heart AND warm clothing!

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Motor Sport Lots of crazy driving experiences to try!

Forest Segway on Cannock Chase .. trek by Segway on a forest trail th

st

Date: Sundays: 9 July or 1 October 2017 Place: Birches Valley Forest Center near Rugeley (WS15 2UQ) # Meet: Around midday to be confirmed Cost: £35 (£39 Guest) includes all equipment and instruction Get off the beaten track and experience an hour of fun on these amazing machines.

We’re off exploring the forest on the latest in green technology – self-balancing electric Segways. It’s a totally unique way to tackle the trails in the forest. Our experience with us lasts an hour, and that includes a brief bit of safety and instruction before we head out with an instructor. You’ll need to weigh between 7 and 19½ stone.

Motorbike Off Road Experience .. a fantastic introduction to scrambling/ motocross Saturday 28th October 2017 Frank F Harrison Motor X Track, Walsall (WS2 7NR) # 9.30am for 10am - 3pm session £99 (£105 Guest) Includes: all equipment & instruction, specialist clothing including boots, jackets & helmets. Also drinks & burger at lunch We have exclusive private access to a fabulous off road facility in Walsall. If you have any doubts about the scale of this track, just put WS2 7NR into Google Earth and see it “from Space”! They have great equipment and brilliant instructors to teach you how to get the best from it. This fantastic introduction will get you riding in ways and on surfaces that you wouldn't believe! There is no better feeling of exhilaration, than riding a motorcycle over off road terrain. The day caters for all levels of experience from complete novice (including would-be riders who have never even sat on a motorcycle before), to experienced road and off-road riders. After a safety briefing, we’ll get off road riding instruction and assessment. Your instructors will then take you out to the course to build and develop your skills and confidence in a hands-on situation. Most people can get the hang of the skills pretty quickly. However, if the instructors do not feel you can handle a motorbike (or you are not happy on one) there is the opportunity to swap to one of their quad bikes instead.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Quad Bike Intro & Woodland Trek .. a trek on woodland trails in Sutton Coldfield th

Date: Sunday 27 August 2017 Place: Bassetts Pole, Sutton Coldfield (B75 5SA) Meet: 2.45pm meet for 3pm - 4pm session Cost: £45 (£49 Guest) Situated in the heart of the beautiful countryside at Bassetts Pole, Sutton Coldfield, the huge NPF adventure site has great woodland trails for quad bike trekking. Under expert instruction, we will develop our riding skills and take part in a trek throughout undiscovered trails in over 120 acres of beautiful woodland on 150cc KYMCO quad bikes. This 1 hour experience starts with a full safety bri efing and training session with an instructor, teaching us how to ride and control the Quad safely. As soon as we have successfully completed this compulsory safety training our Quad trek will begin. The experience includes all kit and equipment including coveralls and helmets and a full 30 minutes riding the quad bike.

Incredible Auto Circus .. a half day of stupendous auto-exhilaration th

Date: Sunday 15 October 2017 Place: Birmingham Wheels Raceway, Adderley Road South, Birmingham (B8 1AE) # Meet: 9.30am - 1.30pm Cost: £99 Member, £149 Guest (at public price) (Deposit £20) Roll Up, Roll Up! ... be the star in the greatest Auto Show in town! What better gift for the car-mad person in your life, than a day full of the maddest Cars imaginable? Forget run-of-the-mill driving experiences …The Incredible Auto Circus is totally unique – six of the funniest and most exciting motor racing events ever – on one colourful and memorable day.Race “Double Decker Cars”, drift the amazing “Shopping Trolley Caster Cars”, you can even rally Reliant Robins … completely car-racingly bonkers! You have got to have a go at this one – read the full write up on our website.

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Outdoor Pursuits What Spice are most famous for!

Abseiling for the Terrified .. a great way to get started th

Dates: Saturday 16 September 2017 Place: Black Rocks, Matlock, Derbyshire # Meet: 10am Start Cost: £34 (£39 Guest) Many members would love to do an abseil, but are too petrified to book the ones we normally offer.

After seeing Mark Fenton's ability to gently coax even the most frightened, or physically disadvantaged people into achieving brilliant outdoor feats, I started these special sessions which have proved extremely popular! You just need to bring a little faith, and the will to succeed! The feeling you’ll get from your success is well worth it all. Mark will get you to overcome any fears by building up your confidence gradually. First we get used to the equipment and how to use it on a few very short descents, before tackling some bigger abseils if you feel able. You’ll not be forced to do anything you are uncomfortable with, or feel stupid if you back out of any stage. So go on…you’ve nothing to lose but your fears!

Indoor Climbing at Redpoint .. try this excellent new centre! th

Date: Thursday 26 October 2017 Place: Redpoint Climbing, 77 Cecil St, Birmingham (B19 3SU) – see directions online Meet: 7.00pm for 7.15pm to 9.15pm session Cost: £20 Member, £22 Guest Climbing is one of the fastest growing sports. Its great fun and anybody can do it. It's a really exciting way to improve physical fitness combining strength, balance, flexibility and concentration. It’s the ideal place to learn about this sport, with an opportunity to develop your skills under expert tuition. Your instructors are S.P.S.A. qualified or equivalent and the emphasis is, as always, on safety. Just wear cool, loose (not baggy) clothing and training shoes. There are refreshment and changing facilities. The huge main wall is the first thing you'll see, but don't worry, there are a variety of other faces for beginners to develop their skills on. We warm up on the bouldering wall then something bigger when you’re ready!

Overnight Forest Experience .. hike in the dark & sleep in a cave!

Date: Saturday 9th - Sunday 10th September 2017 Place: Symonds Yat area of Forest of Dean # Meet: 8.00pm Cost: £55 (£59 Guest). Extra: Café Breakfast in morning (if you wish) Anyone with a sense of adventure will love this brilliant multi activity hike after dark. Let’s hope it’s one of those eerie moonlit nights when the deer are out in force and stars that you can reach out and touch - but whatever happens you can be sure it’ll be one of those Spice experiences which you’ll remember for a long time. We start with a bracing hike, which includes some navigation tuition. Paths may be discarded as we bash through bush intent on a compass bearing despite any obstacles - so we can play at being Special Forces on manoeuvres in the jungle with a little imagination! If our compass work serves us, we should find a cave system at around 1am. Life inside is a little more 'normal' as darkness is permanent in these fascinating places, and we will light a fire inside to lift the spirits. As we'll be a little tired by now, we'll sleep till dawn in the peace of the cave system. Refreshed and invigorated, we'll plan our final route back and find a café.

Symonds Yat Adventure Mission .. a fab multi activity day wrapped up in a journey!

Date: Saturday: 21st October 2017 Place: Forest of Dean # Meet: 10am to approx 4pm Cost: £52 Member, £57 Guest Have you ever been on a walk through the forest that starts with you being kitted out with harness and helmet? If not, you've never been on one which starts with a 100 foot abseil down the Buttress at the Yat! Fuelled on adrenaline we then slide down to the river and walk along the disused railway line to a wire suspension bridge where we cross the Wye. We then ramble to Pancake Caves, which we enter by being lowered on a rope through a hole in the roof - wow! Our ramble then takes us onto King Arthur's Cave, an ancient dwelling place, and on to the Seven Sisters, a rock outcrop. Brilliant!

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Go Ape in Cannock Chase .. the thrill of aerial trekking high above the forest floor Date: Sundays: 9th July or 1st October 2017 Place: Birches Valley Forest Centre near Rugeley (WS15 2UQ) # Meet: Around 12noon (to be confirmed with details) Cost: £33 Member, £35 Guest Go-Ape provides a truly exhilarating, adrenalin pumped experience in the tree tops. It’s an award-winning high wire forest adventure course of rope bridges, Tarzan Swings and zip slides up to 40 feet up in the trees. We are fitted with a climbing harness, given instructions, and then trek from tree to tree high above the forest floor. Safety is paramount and all participants wear safety harnesses with which to attach themselves to the safety system. Everyone receives a safety briefing. The course normally takes a very enjoyable (and perhaps a little scary) 2 - 3 hours to complete.

Ramble, Scramble & Dangle .. a great day out with Mark th

Date: Saturday 30 September 2017 Place: White Peak area of Derbyshire # Meet: 10.00am Cost: £34 (£39 Guest) We get the most brilliant feedback from these days out with Mark Fenton! Meeting in the White Peak, we embark on a 7 mile hike but along the way we encounter and overcome various obstacles! It could be a climb, a river crossing, an abseil or it could be all three. You might be asked to disarm a bomb, climb a tree or ascend a steep embankment using jumars (fixed rope ascenders) you could even be asked to find your own way back to the cars using “Marks’ special maps”.

Caving for the Terrified .. a great underground experience th

Date: Saturday 7 October 2017 Place: Matlock Bath, Matlock, Derbyshire # Meet: 10am to approx 1.30pm Cost: £35 (£39 Guest) Another of Mark's brilliant events for those who really want to conquer an outdoor pursuit, but need some extra 'loving care' to help them though. This day is an ideal introduction in an interesting cave system, but one where you have the peace of mind that you could quickly be brought to the surface if the experience proves too much!

Kayak River Adventure Day .. enjoy a day out in 'canoe country' nd

Date: Saturday 2 September 2017 Place: Symonds Yat, Forest of Dean (HR9 5QT) # Meet: 10.00am to approx 4.30pm Cost: £55 Member, £59 Guest This area really is canoe country! The team from Forest Adventure have come up with a varied route for single seat kayaks - enjoyable for absolute beginners and practiced paddlers alike. They have planned out for us, one of the most scenic, most photographed, stretches of the Wye, from Kerne Bridge to Huntsmans Bridge taking in views of Symonds Yat as we go.

It’s a leisurely day and a great first timer’s event, but will also be fun for those of you who have some experience.

Canadian Canoe Adventure .. enjoy a day out in 'canoe country' nd

Date: Saturday 22 July 2017 Place: Symonds Yat, Forest of Dean (HR9 5QT) # Meet: 10.00am to approx 3.30pm Cost: £55 Member, £59 Guest Forest Adventure have come up with a varied route for Canadian style open canoes - enjoyable for absolute beginners and practiced paddlers alike. They’ve chosen one of the most scenic, photographed, stretches of the Wye, from Kerne Bridge to Huntsmans Bridge taking in views of Symonds Yat as we go. Having allowed 4½ hours, it should be a leisurely day and will include a stop for coffee and a pub! Open canoes minimise our chance of getting wet, which is always a bonus!

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Zipworld Velocity - Ultimate Zipline Experience .. fly for 1 mile at nearly 100mph & 500 feet up! nd

Date: Saturday 2 September 2017 Place: Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda (LL57 4YG) # Meet: 12noon Cost: £59 (£65 Guest) Includes: 2 x Zipwires, flying suit, goggles, quarry tour by truck So why should you travel to Wales for this one? Well, Zip World has the longest zipline in Europe and is claimed to be “the nearest thing to flying like Superman”. The Zip World site contains two specially constructed and spectacular zip lines, the first will take you down to the bottom of the quarry where you will pick up your specialised vehicle for a magnificent quarry tour, before zip lining back (one mile!) to the start. You will be going at speeds of around 100mph and you will be travelling 500ft above the mountain lake so be ready for a ride of a lifetime!

How does our afternoon work? We will meet up for briefing and for kitting up with flying suits, helmets and goggles.

We then get to experience “Little Zipper”, a mere 500 meters of fun that will whet our appetites for what is to come. At the base of “Little Zipper” we join our trucks (15 per truck) that take us on a guided tour of the quarry, ending at the very top.

The views are dramatic. We eventually reach the summit and the mighty “Big Zipper”. This we descend one after another at approx 2 minute intervals. Be prepared to be terrified, invigorated and awed .. all at the same time!

White Water Rafting at Bala .. try this sport at this legendary location! th

Date: Sunday 20 August 2017 Place: Tryweryn River, Bala, Wales (LL23 7NU) # Meet: 12.30pm Cost: £59.50 (£64 Guest) Incl: wetsuit, helmet, buoyancy aid & boot hire This is always one of the highlights the Spice programme and is always a complete sell out with a long wait list too! It’s your chance to experience the thrills and spills of real white water rafting. This time we are off to the fantastic Tryweryn River at Bala. The Tryweryn provides one of the longest stretches of river for rafting down in the country, with rapids such as “The Graveyard”, “The Ski Jump” and “The Fingers”. Each purpose-built raft will hold up to seven brave Spicer’s as you battle against the flow of the river with 6 of you rowing and one sitting in the middle cheering them on! We have 2 hours of rafting which should give us time for three or four runs and a rest in between if you need it!

Kayaking for Fun .. an afternoon of fun on the water th

Date: Saturday 26 August 2017 Place: Lakeside Campus Activity Centre, near Droitwich (WR6 6NH) # Meet: 9.30am for 10am to 1pm session Cost: £26 (£28 Guest) Includes: All kit & instruction Top Barn is a haven water based activities. Today we’ll try our hand at kayaking on their purpose built lake which is perfect for beginners and improvers. The instructors will guide you through and improve your ability whatever your level.

Whitewater Rafting at Nene .. discover the thrill of white water! th

Date: Saturday 5 August 2017 Place: Nene Whitewater Centre, Northampton # (NN4 7AA) Meet: 12.15pm for 12.30 start Cost: £49 (£51 Guest) Incl: Instruction and safety equipment The Nene Whitewater Centre was the UK's first pumped artificial whitewater course. Three pumps control the discharge of water down the 300 metre whitewater course allowing the Centre to control flow rates thereby altering the course's difficulty and skill Levels required to paddle it. We will be given a safety briefing and kit change. Each group will then carry their chosen raft to the river and have a quick paddle on the flat water to ensure that everyone is comfortable with what they need to do and understand the safety briefing they have just been given. Once your raft guide is comfortable that you are happy,we’ll be taken to the 300 metre man made water course. On each descent of the water course your raft guide will control your raft giving you a different experience and developing your skills and understanding of white water rapids.

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our schedules on line at www,spicebham.com so you don’t miss a thing. We also update members on a weekly basis with out “Weekly Bulletin” by email and via our Facebook Page.

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Rock Climbing for the Terrified .. a beginners day of climbing & scrambling th

Date: Saturday 29 July 2017 Place: Black Rocks nr Matlock # Meet: 10am Cost: £36 (£39 Guest) including all equipment & instruction A fun opportunity for people who never thought they could be rock climbers to have a go at various rock skills within a very supportive group. Mark Fenton, runs our legendary “Abseiling for the Terrified” days with fantastic feedback and results. As usual, anyone can have a go, as you don't have to be superfit, and all equipment is provided. You are in safe hands with our excellent instructors who will encourage you yet promise not to put you in any situation that you are uncomfortable. Climbing brings out the child in all of us. It is an enormous sense of achievement to reach the top. If you lose your grip or have to give in, you can relax in the security that you're well secured by the belay team. If there is time, Mark will also let you have a go with Micro ladders. Learning the techniques is quite a giggle – find out why!

Ironbridge to Bridgnorth Raft Day & BBQ .. spend a day on a guided raft tour of the river Date: Sunday 17th September 2017 Place: Wharfage Car Park, Ironbridge (TF8 7NH) # Meet: Arrive for 9.20am to leave promptly at 9.30am Cost: £40 (£42 Guest) Incl: Life jackets, river guides & transport back to start We have had great feedback from our Raft Tours through the Ironbridge Gorge, so we thought you might like the opportunity of a longer trip down the River Severn. This time, Nigel and his team have got special permission to take us all the way to the historic town of Bridgnorth, with a BBQ stop on the way. A minibus will return us to Ironbridge at the end.

As well as discovering the Ironbridge Gorge world heritage site, we will follow the river through beautiful countryside all the way to the Severn Valley. No doubt we will get lots of surprised looks from walkers, sightseers and other river users as our Zambezi syle rafts (the largest in the UK!) come around each corner! As ever, we will be in very safe hands. Nigel Winfield is a very experienced boatman who has run rafts down many of the world’s great rivers, has settled down in Shropshire. After a safety briefing and lifejackets, we’re off on our adventure. Each raft is 25ft and we can fit 12 people plus guide in each one. No paddling is required as the guides do all the work. It’s a fully guided tour and the guide will point out points of history and attractions along the way. No whitewater rapids so virtually anyone can enjoy it.

Inflatable Action Fun .. a fantastically bouncy experience th

Date: Sunday 13 August 2017 Place: Bassetts Pole, Sutton Coldfield (B75 5SA) Meet: 11.45am for 12noon - 2pm.

Cost: £35.50 (£37.50 Guest) Incl: Equipment, instruction, Spice coordinator Think “it’s a Knockout”, think “Gladiators”, think “Total Wipeout” and you have some idea of the fun we are going to have today! Yes, 2 hours of fun on inflatables. Here are the games we will be playing: ● Boot Camp Challenge: No challenge is complete without an assault course! AQt least this one has a soft landings! ● Rocca Rolla: Outsmart your opponents and hold your nerve. Test your fitness, balance & gritty determination! ● Super Hero Fun Wrestling/Boxing: Have you ever experienced a muscle-bound Batman come hurtling towards you? ● Pony “Space Hopper” style racing: Bounce around on the pony style space hoppers – what’s not to like! ● Wobbly Sausage Racing: Groups of 6 people showcasing their skill at bouncing a 6 metre inflatable frankfurter across the Astro Turf arena without losing their grip on the hot dog in question! The main danger is you can’t stop laughing! ● Adult Space Hopper Race: See who can cross the line first! It’s all fun, it’s hilarious, it’s friendly and you’ll love it!

All the action takes place on an Astro Turf arena, offering a reassuringly clean, dry and safe playing surface.

Multi Water Sports Morning .. try a range of fun water activities th

Date: Saturday 19 August 2017 Place: Lakeside Campus Activity Centre, Nr Droitwich (WR6 6NH) # Meet: 9.30am for 10am - 1pm session Cost: £26 (£28 Guest) Includes: Instruction and all kit including wetsuits if requ’d Lakeside has a large lake and is very well equipped. We will have the opportunity to experience a variety of water sports, activities could include sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and raft building, find out which one floats your boat!

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Ironbridge Canoe & Kayak Cruise with Lunch .. spend a day on a guided float down the river th

Date: Sunday 24 September 2017 Place: Wharfage Car Park, Ironbridge (TF8 7NH) # Meet: Arrive for 9.20am to depart 9.30am (back around 3.30pm) Cost: £40 (£42 Guest) Incl: Life jackets, lunch, guides & transport back to start We have had great feedback from our Raft Tours through the Ironbridge Gorge, so when the same team offered us a leisurely day in canoes and kayaks, we know it would appeal! This is an easy trip of 13 miles with lots of breaks and the opportunity to swap from Kayak to Canoe as you wish. We will be transported by minibus to our start point at Atcham and float back to Ironbridge through the Shropshire countryside seeing some beautiful sites along the way. We finish in the beautiful town of Ironbridge after an expected float time of 6 hours total on the water and stops. A cold packed lunch is supplied and is eaten along the way. The trips run in rain or shine, so dress accordingly! There is no whitewater on the trip, just a scenic float the whole way. We have a mixture of canoes and sit on top kayaks. 8 people in canoes and 6 people on “sit on top” kayaks. As ever, we will be in very safe hands as Nigel Winfield is a very experienced boatman.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding Taster .. discover SUP on the River beside Tamworth Castle Date: Wednesday 26th July 2017 Place: River Anker in Tamworth Castle Grounds # (B79 7NA) Meet: 7pm prompt start Cost: £35 (£39 Guest) Includes: All instruction and equipment and Spice host SUP is one of the fastest growing and most trendy watersports around – so why not give it a go with a river adventure in the grounds of Tamworth Castle. We have booked professional boarder Chris Kenyon of Central SUP for a 1½ hour training session which he thinks will have you hooked. What is SUP: Well, you stand on a board that is similar to a surf board or windsurf board, then gently paddle your way around. Chris will offer us the thrill of an SUP adventure combined with learning how to paddle all at the same time. This way you should be able to master the basics and get a fun, easy paddle in Tamworth Castle grounds to put your new skills into practice.

This experience is ideal if you are just wanting to enjoy the river and have some fun at the same time.

Segway Polo for Beginners .. you will love this crazy new sport!

Date: Sunday 3rd September 2017 Place: St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre, Banbury Rd, Warwick (CV34 4QY) # Meet: 10.30am for 11am Start (2 hour session) Cost: £39 (£45 Guest) Incl: Tuition & equipment. Extra: £4 parking & cash for cafe This is polo, “the Sport of Kings”, but without a pony in sight! Instead we’re playing it on Segway’s. It’s Apple's Steve Wozniak's favourite pastime, and for one day only it could be yours as well! You may have read about it in the papers or heard it on the radio now is your chance to learn to play the exciting sport of 'Segway Polo'. Arranged exclusively for Spice Members only. We start with 90 minutes of training which will prepare us for the fun of a 30 minute mini tournament (“chukkas” in polo speak). Expect to learn such skills as: ● Segway Training - 'gliding' with confidence ● wielding the mallet ● playing with power and accuracy ● shooting the ball. Afterwards we can relax and debrief at the park café. All equipment will be provided and training given by UK Coach/GB Team Captain and a fellow Spice member.

Note: Weight limit is 18½ stone for this event. You will have your own Segway for the duration of the event (no sharing!).

Water Inflatable Fun at Aqua Park Rutland .. experience a floating inflatable Aqua Park th

Date: Saturday 12 August 2017 Place: Whitwell, Oakham (LE15 8BL) Meet: 9:00am for 9:15am start Cost: £22 (£23 Guest) Aqua Park Rutland is the UK’s biggest Aquaglide Park. Measuring over 100m by 80m the floating inflatable Aqua Park has climbing walls, trampolines, balance bars, rockers, rollers and blast bags, the UK’s biggest slides. Read more Online ______________________________

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our schedules on line at www,spicebham.com so you don’t miss a thing. We also update members on a weekly basis with out “Weekly Bulletin” by email and via our Facebook Page.

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Previews & Pub Nights Unlike the other events in this newsletter, most of these events (except Spice Hits Town) are offered on an informal 'just turn up' basis.

Preview Evenings! .. presentations aimed at those looking to join, just joined, or introducing a friend to the group Sutton Coldfield Date: Mon 17 July 2017 Place: The Royal Hotel High Street Sutton Coldfield (near Police Station) B72 1UD Time: 8.00pm Cost: Free

Edgbaston Dates: Tue 12 Sept 2017 Place: Midlands Arts Centre Edgbaston Road Cannon Hill Park Birmingham B12 9QH Time: 8.00pm Cost: Free

Dudley Date: Mon 25 Sept 2017 Place: Copthorne – Merry Hill The Waterfront Level Street Brierley Hill DY5 1UR Time: 8.00pm Cost: Free

You don’t have to come to a Preview Night in order to join Spice, but if you can, it’s a great way to make your start with us and the easiest way of meeting a few people and finding out how it all works. Richard, Maggie and other team members and volunteers will be there to welcome everybody. We’ll show the Spice Video, talk through the basics of membership, give you more info' on the programme, and explain how it all works.

It's very casual and everyone is welcome; those thinking of joining who want to find out more, and existing members who might like to come along with any curious friends. It's very informal, and many members have joined after attending one of these as it's a great opportunity to meet other new members who also want to add some SPICE to life!

Those who can’t wait to get started will also have the opportunity to book any events they'd like try.

We’ve chosen venues with good free parking areas immediately outside. Once in the venue just ask at reception which room we’re in. All venues have a bar, and you can bring a drink into the room.

Hope you can make it - no need to book, just turn up on the night and we'll see you there.

Spice Hits Town at The Jam House .. a great free Spice get together with live music!

Dates: Fridays: ● 21 Jul ● 18 Aug ● 22 Sept ● 20 Oct 2017 Place: The Jam House, St Pauls Square, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: From 7.30pm (arrive by 8.30pm LATEST or you’ll be charged). Meet upstairs Cost: Free (but you have to book this event). Members Only – No Guests Incl: Spice exclusive area & discounted bar to 9pm. Drink voucher to use before 8.30pm Live entertainment: ● 21/7 - Solid Soul (Soul greats including classics from James Brown, Motown and even Hendrix & Kravitz) ● 18/8 - Rocket (Anthems from Bon Jovi, Kings of Leon, Jay-Z, Nelly, Black Eyed Peas, Killers, Oasis & James Brown) ● 22/9 - Solid Soul (Soul greats including classics from James Brown, Motown and even Hendrix & Kravitz) ● 20/10 - Mr Ben (Rock anthems from the likes of the Police & Proclaimers to Stereophonics & Snow Patrol) Our monthly night out now offers more! We have our own area from 7.30pm to 9pm and the bar that serves our area will also have a Spice discount in place for our exclusive time, so go straight to our area on arrival – don’t buy at the public till!

Live entertainment starts around 9pm with the headline act coming on after around 10.30pm. For those who have the staying power, the DJ will keep us partying right through to 2am!

Booking: There is no charge if you arrive before 8.30pm, but your place has to be booked in advance so that your name is on the list for security to allow you into our private area. Please dress night club wise (ie no trainers, jeans etc).

If you haven’t been to a Spice Hits Town before, you’ll find it a great opportunity to renew acquaintances with other Spice Members who you’ve met on events, and generally mingle in an informal but busy environment.

New Members Note: Whilst all members are very welcome to attend if they wish, it is easier when you know a few people in the group. We only say this because it is a busy, loud, unstructured meet up with minimal coordination, so it can be difficult for members to spot and properly look after people who are new. Once you have been to a few events, and know some faces, however, you’ll find SHT a great way to renew friendships and get into the social life of our group.

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Our Regional Pub Nights – an Important Explanation Don’t worry, Spice has not become (nor ever will be!) a group who meet up in pubs! In fact, many people join Spice as an antidote to spending their time in pubs. Spice is all about the events and the fun we have on them. That said, a network of pub nights have developed, aimed at enabling members to get to know other members in their area over a drink (or three!) each month.

These nights are run “by the members - for the members” and have no other purpose other than providing a corner of a pub for Spice friends to drink and chat together. The reason I mention this, is that I sometimes get reports of new members and people interested in joining, turning up at these nights expecting something more - such as a “meeting”, “an opportunity to join”, “the chance to book events” or “the chance to see what Spice is like” etc. These nights are a great resource for people who have been in the group for some time and who know a few faces to look out for. However, they are not really designed for people who are brand new to the group. They work best as a form of reunion for people who have already met on events. They are certainly no substitute for our organised events or the Preview Nights that we put on for those who want to find out more about the Group or to join us.

These are busy pubs (not closed to the public) and can be difficult if you don’t already know some faces to look out for.

Sorry to be a little negative, but we would hate for you to judge Spice based on your experience of an informal night at a pub!

Sutton Pub Night .. drop in and meet our Sutton Spicers Date: Wednesdays: ● 12 Jul ● 9th Aug ● 13th Sep ● 11th Oct 2017 Place: The Bottle of Sack, Bham Rd (B72 1QG) Meet: 8pm onwards Members only David & Rob are your volunteer hosts for this night for members who live in the Sutton Coldfield and surrounding areas.

David will be near the bar and (to help you spot him) will be drinking out of a pewter tankard.

Contact: Any questions, call Dave on 0121 329 3663. ● Please read notes above before attending a pub night.

Directions: Nearest free Car Park is the one by TKMaxx / Halfords/ Aldi. See online writeup for full details. th

Halesowen/Quinton Pub Night .. get together with our South Birmingham & Worcestershire folk!

Date: Thursdays: ● 6th Jul ● 3th Aug ● 7th Sep ● 5th Oct 2017 Place: Amber Tavern, Hagley Rd West, (B32 2AL) Meet: 8pm onwards Members only Come and have a drink and a laugh, in a friendly atmosphere with a few Spice friends from your area. There’s food available if you wish as well.

Contact: Hosts are Fiona & John. Fiona can be contacted on 07929 357 880 with any queries. ● Please read notes above before attending a pub night Directions: See online writeup for full details.

Tamworth & Lichfield Pub Night .. discover life in our northern territories!

Date: Tuesdays: ● 25 Jul ● 29th Aug ● 26th Sep ● 31st Oct 2017 Place: The Bole Bridge, Tamworth (B79 7PA) Meet: 8pm onwards Members Only This popular night is particularly aimed at getting together members in the Lichfield, Tamworth and surrounding areas – but all members are welcome. Tove and Jayne will be there to welcome you at The Bole Bridge, where they will reserve a table or two on the raised area. There are regular guest ales and good food at competitive prices.

Contact: Any questions Contact Tove: tsalkvist@yahoo.co.uk or call 07967 540697. ● Please read notes above before attending a pub night. Directions: See online writeup for full details. th

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Quiz Nights Come to our fun Quiz nights. It's a good way of getting to know people, as we randomly arrange teams on the night.

There’s a bar and prizes are awarded to winners & runners up. Losers may get a surprise too! Our quizzes are written specially for us and it’s all just for fun - so please don’t book if you’re too serious about winning!

Curry & Quiz (Harborne & Solihull) .. a great social evening with Steve Dell Dates: ● Thu 7th September - Bangla Lounge, 152a High St, Harborne (B17 9PN) ● Wed 9th August - Spice Club 697 Warwick Road Solihull (B91 3DA) Meet: 7.00pm Cost: £5 (£7 Guest) plus cost of food on the night (see each deal below) Great nights with Steve Dell, combining two favourites; a curry and a quiz! There will be all the usual rounds such as general knowledge, music etc. These are great events to meet fellow spicers and not taken too.seriously – this is Spice! ● Spice Club: Our deal is: Poppadum’s & dips, mixed starters, a choice of main and rice & naan for £12.95. ● Bangla Lounge: We have a great deal for £9.95: Popadom (with onion salad, dips etc), a starter, a main and rice or naan.

Chinese & Quiz (Sutton Coldfield) .. another gastro-quiz from Steve Dell Date: Thursday 31st August at Lee Garden, Birmingham Rd, Sutton Coldfield (B72 1QF) Meet: 7.00pm Cost: £5 (£7 Guest) plus cost of food (£18.50) on the night Today, Steve will run one of his quizzes whilst we enjoy a varied Chinese Meal. There will be all the usual rounds such as general knowledge, music etc. A set meal has been booked (vegetarian on request) – see menu on line at spicebham.com

Greek Meal & Quiz (Sutton Coldfield) .. a great social evening with Steve Dell 18th

Date: Wednesday October at Eleon Greek Restaurant, 2 Maney Corner (B72 1QL) Meet: 7pm in their upstairs room Cost: £5 (£7 Guest) plus cost of food (£18.50) on the night A new addition to Steve's meals and quizzes; The same winning formula used for the curry and Chinese quizzes will see Steve will run a quiz in between courses. There will be all the usual rounds such as general knowledge, music etc. Food: The recommendation is their three course set price menu which has many options to choose from - all for £18.50 - paid on the night. See menu online. These are great events to meet others as you work in small teams. They are fun and have an edge of competitiveness but not taken too seriously!

Sound & Vision Quiz (Tamworth) .. enjoy this “quiz with a difference” Date: Thu 13th July at The Globe Inn, Lower Gungate, Tamworth (B79 7AT) Meet: 7.15pm in function room Cost: £5 (£7 Guest) This is a quiz with a difference. There will be the usual rounds like music and general knowledge and new rounds with film clips on a big screen and observation so there will be something for everyone. The pub does food if you wish to eat.

___________ ___________________

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our schedules on line at www,spicebham.com so you don’t miss a thing.

We also update members on a weekly basis with out “Weekly Bulletin” by email and via our Facebook Page.

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Rambles & Nordic Walks Spice Rambles are a great way to get out in the outdoors, meet new friends and get fit at the same time! We do a wide range of rambles to suit every ability – so don’t miss out on the fun!

Ramble Kit: Dress to suit all weathers and avoid jeans as they hinder you once wet.

You'll need boots, spare clothing, waterproofs and a drink. Our guides are experienced leaders and qualified first aiders so you'll be in good hands. We'll send directions including a mobile number to call if the weather is extreme or if you cannot attend - so we don't hang around waiting.

Kingsbury Very Easy Ramble

Urban Ramble: Solihull Waterfront

Date: Thursday 13th July 2017 Place: Marston Farm Hotel near Kingsbury (B76 9JD) # Meet: 6.30pm Start Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) Extra: Optional Meal Join Richard on a short early evening walk along the canal and through Kingsbury Water Park. We meet in the (free) car park of Marston Farm Hotel and follow the Fazeley Canal through the picturesque Warwickshire countryside into Kingsbury Waterpark where we can enjoy the lakes and visit the bird hides before making our way back to Marston Farm by approx. 7.45pm.

Date: Saturday 22nd July 2017 Place: Meet in Solihull Town Centre # Meet: 11am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Another in our series of lovely walks through urban, green and hidden spaces of the West Midlands using the Greenways Map. This time we have a circular walk from the centre of Solihull which uses roads with cycleways, canal towpaths and greenways to make a circuit of around 6 miles of flat, easy walking.

New Members Easy Morning Ramble

Lickey Hills & Bittell Reservoirs Ram

Date: Sunday 23rd July 2017 Place: Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield (B73 6LH) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) Extras: Optional Meal Want to try a ramble with Spice but not sure what it involves?

This is an ideal opportunity to join Richard for a couple of hours (3 to 4 miles) gentle rambling in Sutton Park. We will aim to see some of the lakes and different habitats in this lovely urban park.

There are no hills of note and we will take it very easy. Richard will explain a bit about what rambling involves in Spice, kit issues etc. Just bring strong shoes/boots and a waterproof just in case.

Sunday Lunch Buffet Option: This walk is timed to end in time for those also booked on our New Members Sunday Lunch.

15th

Date: Saturday July 2017 Place: Warren Lane Car Park (B45 8ER) # Meet: 11am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) If you’ve enjoyed our Bluebell Walks on the Lickey Hills and want to explore a bit further, this 2½ hour (approx. 5 mile) walk is ideal. We’ll meet by the Visitor Centre and take a gentle walk that takes in the views from the Lickeys, the village of Barnt Green, 3 reservoirs, a grade 2 listed church, The UK’s steepest mainline rail section and lots of interesting buildings and features along the way

Bosworth Moderate Steam Train Ram Date: Sunday 16th July 2017 Place: Market Bosworth, Leicestershire (CV13 6NW) # Meet: 11am for 11:15am train Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extras: Train ticket Here is a unique ramble with Rob Smith with a slightly revised route for 2017. We catch the steam train on The Battlefield Line Heritage Railway and walk back. The walk is around 7½ miles is fairly flat with a couple of gentle gradients.

Peak District Walk: Chrome Hill Date: Sunday 23rd July 2017 Place: Starting from Longnor Village (SK17 0NT) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) A Classic 10 miler with Mick from the pretty village of Longnor with its cobbled market place we follow the bridleway to cross the River Dove at Beggar’s Bridge to climb out of the valley to Earl Sterndale, circling round Hitter Hill we see the extent of the dragons back ridge of Parkhouse and Chrome Hills. The concessionary path over the sharp Parkhouse hill is a sharp contrast to the wide Chrome Hill, from both summits there are superb views, Chrome hill is part of a limestone reef knoll and a site of special scientific interest. After circling round Hollins hill we pass through the hamlet of Hollinsclough on our way back.

Peak District Walk: Monyash Date: Sunday 16th July 2017 Place: Near Bakewell (DE45 1JH) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) Starting from the former mining village of Monyash we follow footpaths to visit the Magpie Mine, one of the oldest and best preserved lead mines complete with a curse from 1833, descend to cross the Bakewell road and into Lathkill Dale.

Staunton Harold Hall Ramble Date: Sunday 23rd July 2017 Place: Staunton Harold, near Ashby (LE65 1RU) # Meet: 11.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) We revisit this lovely walk for a summer visit; there is lots of woodland on this ramble what a great time of the year to take in the beautiful woodland scenery. Steve Dell will lead us on this 5½ mile ramble in this lovely area where we are spoilt for choice with great features such as the historic Staunton Harold Hall and church, the pretty Dimminsdale woods and nature Reserve and the delightful Calke Abbey House and Park (compete with tea shop).If that wasn’t enough we start from The Ferrers Centre of Arts & Crafts where you will find a bakery, tea shop and Garden Centre.

There are woods, lakeside paths and the majestic parklands of Calke Park with some open farmland with great views.

Berkswell Evening Ramble Date: Wednesday 19th July 2017 Place: Berkswell, near Coventry (CV7 7BB) # Meet: 7pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal A nice evening ramble of around 4 miles with Rob Smith; It starts from the lovely Bear pub in Berkswell. We start along field paths and bridleways passing through the tiny hamlets of Benton Green and Carol Green. Then onto Beechwood and along the course of a disused railway line (that used to go to Kenilworth). The return is through farmland and takes us past Ram Hall (which is a 16th Century Grade II listed building, where they make Sheep's milk cheese) on the way back to the pub. Back at the pub we can eat.

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Nordic Walking on The Lickey Hills

Long Mynd Hard Ramble

th

Date: Sunday 6th August 2017 Place: Church Stretton, Shropshire (SY6 6JG) # Meet: 10.45am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extras: Parking (free for NT) This 10 mile round trip with Trevor Hyde has a steep climb near the start. The route quickly climbs out of Carding Mill Valley and up onto the long broad ridge that makes up the Long Mynd and the summit of Pole Bank. We will follow this for about 3miles before descending to the hamlet of Minton and on to Little Stretton. We then take the "Cunnery Rd" which winds its way through woodland back round to Carding Mill Valley. Back at Church Stretton there are cafes and pubs in which to recover.

Date: Sunday 30 July 2017 Place: Lickey Hills Visitor Centre (B45 8ER) # Meet: 10am Start Cost: £7 (£8 Guest) Incl: Pole hire & instructors Join us on a lovely 7 mile Nordic walk. There will be a short introduction to Nordic walking followed by the walk. A reasonable level of fitness is required and Mike (a master trainer of Nordic walking) will be on hand to offer support and guide you.

Peak District Walk: Waterhouses Date: Sunday 30th July 2017 Place: Near Ashbourne / Ilam (ST10 3HL) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) Today we are exploring some lesser known paths of the Southern edge of the Peak District. We start off following the River Hamps along the Hamps Way to Winkhill, where we leave the river and ascend gently (overlooking the Hamps Valley) towards Grindon, before bearing off East towards the Manifold Valley. With a gradual descent, we make our way back to Waterhouses via old green lanes, and field paths, and the small hamlet of Back o’ th’ Brook. Distance: 7 miles. Leader: Paul and Marie Moss

Peak District Walk: Kinder Southern Date: Sunday 6th August 2017 Place: Edale (S33 7ZA) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) From Edale we follow the Pennine Way along Grindsbrook, a good steady climb to start then a steep rocky climb to the Kinder Plateau, turning east to follow the path along the edge past Ringing Roger to Druid Stone. This edge has superb views across the valley to the Lose Hill Ridge, passing the trig point and an aircraft wreck site to return to the edge and Madwoman's Stones before descending via Crookstone Knoll and Jaggers Clough.

Stow on the Wold 10 Mile Ramble Date: Sunday 30th July 2017 Place: Stow, Cotswolds (GL54 1BX) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) This lovely walk takes us through some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds. We start from the historic village of Stow heading across country toward Bourton on the Water where we stop for lunch. After lunch we continue on to Lower Slaughter where we join the Gloucester Way, following this path across country returning to Stow, where we can stop for a well-earned rest and a drink at one of the many Inns in Stow. Mick’s walks are aimed at regular Walkers with a good level of fitness the route has a couple of ascents, albeit not too steep and is approx 10 miles.

Wellesbourne & Charlecote Ramble Date: Sunday 6th August 2017 Place: Wellesbourne & Charlecote (CV35 9LX) # Meet: 12.15pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after We start from the village of Wellesbourne and take in the National Trust House of Charlecote and a pretty riverside path following the River Dene and the lovely village of Hampton Lucy. Rob Smith will lead this lovely ramble of around 6 miles, which is fairly flat. We will be using field paths though farmland and bridleways. After, there’s an option to for a drink and eat.

Tanworth in Arden Easy Ramble

Elmley Castle Hard/ High Level Walk

Date: Sunday 30th July 2017 Place: Tanworth in Arden, Warwickshire (B94 5AL) # Meet: 1pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after An easy, mostly flat ramble of around 4 miles with Cecilia from the lovely village of Tanworth, which is a pretty, typically English Warwickshire village that was once a clearing in the ancient Forest of Arden. There are many timber framed and Georgian houses in the village. The ramble mainly uses field paths and bridleways and initially heads south to Trap’s Green, then across to Danzey Green and finally returning to Tanworth, along the valley of the infant River Alne. Back in Tanworth we can visit the lovely pub for a drink and a meal or snack for those who wish.

Date: Saturday 12th August 2017 Place: Elmley Castle, Near Pershore (WR10 3HS) # Meet: 10.45am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) This is a stunning 9 mile round trip with a total of 400m of climbing spread throughout the day. From the village of Elmley Castle and a couple of miles through gentle fields, we pass through Comberton churchyard then turn and climb steadily to gain the western end of Bredon Hill. There follows a 4km ridge walk with great views, stopping for lunch at Banbury Tower in the ancient earthworks of a fort from 300BC. We descend off the eastern end and turn back on ourselves to follow a bridleway to the second ancient fort of Elmley Castle. We then descend back into the village to the Queen's Inn for refreshment.

Baddesley Clinton Evening Ramble

Urban Ramble: Cannon Hill Triangle

Date: Thursday 3rd August 2017 Place: Baddesley Clinton, Near Lapworth (B94 6NA) # Meet: 7pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after Enjoy an easy 4½ mile evening ramble with Steve Dell from the lovely Navigation Inn near Lapworth. The ramble is fairly flat and uses field paths and bridleways through farmland and finally the Grand Union Canal. We start by using the Heart of England Way to the National Trust house at Baddesley Clinton and then onto the lovelly village of Rowington. The return uses the Tow Path of the Grand Union Canal. Back at the pub you can eat if you wish.

Date: Saturday 12th August 2017 Place: MAC, Cannon Hill Park (B12 9QH) # Meet: 12noon Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Another of our favourite “Urban Rambles” using the hidden green spaces of the Birmingham Greenways Map. It’s a triangular route which follows 3 waterways; Birmingham & Worcester Canal, River Rea and Bourn Brook. It’s an easy and flat 6 - 7 miles made up of canal towpath, riverside parkland and some urban roads. It’s surprisingly green for much of the way and a fascinating journey!

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our website, Weekly Bulletin by email and Facebook Page for updates.

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Nordic Walk at Ironbridge & Lunch

Knowle Easy Ramble

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Date: Sunday 20th August 2017 Place: Knowle, near Solihull (B93 9AH) # Meet: 1pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after Enjoy a pleasant afternoon 5 mile ramble from the popular village of Knowle with Cecilia. We leave the village and join The Grand Union canal and then make our way to the village of Barston, using footpaths through farmland and some woods. The return follows the River Blythe for a while as we make our way back to Knowle. We start at the Toby carvery so if you want to eat after the ramble, they will still be serving and they do a great carvery!

Date: Sunday 13 August 2017 Place: Ironbridge, Shropshire (TF8 7JR) # Meet: 10am - 12.30pm session Cost: £7 (£8.50 Guest) Incl: Pole Hire & instructors A new Nordic walk around the lovely area of Ironbridge. This 6 mile walk takes us through scenic areas with woodland paths, riverside trails on a different route from our last visit. There is a steady incline which has been adapted to include all abilities. The morning will commence with an introduction to learning to Nordic walk a session for beginners. A good level of fitness is required to complete this longer Nordic walk as you will experience many different terrains. Mark and Mike will be there to look after you.

When we have completed the 2 hour walk we will have lunch at the White Heart Pub (not included) where we’ll order on the day.

Peak Dist. Walk: Rowsley & Railway Date: Sunday 20th August 2017 Place: Darley Dale near Matlock (DE4 2LF) # Meet: 10.45am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) Extra: £4 for train A new walk with Steve Dell using the Peak Rail Heritage Railway. The plan is to meet at Rowsley Station, get the Heritage train to Matlock and walk back. The route ascends out of Matlock using the Limestone Way. We then head north as we make our way through Wensley Dale and into the village of Wensley. From Wensley we descend into Darley Bridge and then along Darley Dale back to Rowsley. There will be the option to go for Sunday lunch after the walk. The train fare is around £4 but parking is free

Peak District Walk: Chatsworth Estate Date: Sunday 13th August 2017 Place: Chatsworth, Derbyshire (DE45 1PP) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) Starting from Chatsworth House, we cross the river to Edensor village taking the footpath across the parkland to Calton houses, here we pick up the bridleway through Rowsleymoor Wood to Rowsley for a chance for visit to the working flour mill and a cup of tea in the outlet village. From here we follow the bridleway and footpaths through Smeltingmill wood to the village of Beeley.

Climbing through the woodland to the open Beeley Moor with fine views of the Derwent Valley. We cross the moor into the woods to pass the Swiss lake & cottage, on to the Emperor Lake, built for the Tsar of Russia to feed the Emperor fountain, to reach the Hunting tower and the descent down through the woods back to the house. It’s around 10 miles, with leader, Mick Cornfield.

Urban Challenge Ram: A Full Circuit Date: Sunday 20th August 2017 Place: Outside McDonalds, Sutton Parade (B72 1XX) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) I have rebranded this walk with the word “Challenge” inserted, as it is a very full day of walking and last time the route covered around 14 miles. It’s another in our series of lovely walks through urban and green spaces of the West Midlands using the Greenways Map. It’s a slice through Birmingham that takes in 8 parks, 2 canals, 6 lakes, many streams and hidden spaces. You need to be a regular walker with a fair degree of walking fitness, but the good news is that it is almost entirely flat and we will set a relaxed pace. We’re following the circle of green that takes us right around north Birmingham. From Sutton town centre we go through Sutton Park which we leave at Banners Gate. From here we follow the greenway through Kingstanding to follow a series of linked urban parks: Perry Common, Witton Lakes and Brookvale Park. From here we follow the Thame Valley Canal to meet the Birmingham Fazeley Canal under Spaghetti Junction which we then follow towards Minworth Top Lock. (Just before this we can take a break at the Tyburn House or Bagot Arms depending on the route we choose on the day). The final stretch will be familiar to those who have done our walks from Birmingham to Sutton. It takes in the linked green spaces of Pype Hayes Park, Walmley Golf Club and Newhall Valley Country Park following Plants Brook all the way back to Sutton centre.

Robs Railway Ramble: Shenstone Date: Sunday 13th August 2017 Place: Shenstone Railway Station (WS14 0NW) # Meet: 11.20am for 11.39am Departure to Lichfield* Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extras: Train fare (TBC) This is the next in a series of railway rambles with Rob. We use local rail car parks which are mostly free - then catch the train a few stops before walking back. The walk is a mixture of local roads and footpaths and has some great views. From Lichfield Trent Valley Station, we walk through Darwin Park before joining the Lichfield and Hatherton canal (under restoration). After following this through Lichfield we leave the canal and cross the fields to Wall (of Roman Wall fame) before crossing back to Shenstone. Rob will find us a pub for lunch/ Drinks in Shenstone.

Forhill Evening Ramble Date: Wednesday 16th August 2017 Place: Forhill, Near Alvechurch (B38 0EH) # Meet: 7pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) A lovely evening ramble with Steve Dell. The ramble is from the Peacock Inn on the old Icknield Street with its great ales and food.

There are a couple of gradients but nothing too strenuous and as usual we will take our time. This is a 4 mile ramble using field paths, bridleways and short sections of country lanes and even skirts around Kings Norton Golf Club. Back at the pub we can have a well-deserved drink (the pub does do food but it’s slow).

Branston Easy Ramble/Lunch Date: Saturday 26th August 2017 Place: Branston, near Burton on Trent (DE13 9SD) # Meet: 11.15am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after We return to this area for this popular ramble of around 5½ miles with Rob Smith with the option of lunch afterwards at the lovely Horseshoe Inn pub. We start by going through Tatenhill Common and then through Highlands Park and onto the hamlet of Dunstall with its pretty church. Passing Dunstall Hall and onto the outskirts of Branston Water Park and then a lovely canal section takes us Branston Bridge. Finally we go through some farmland and skirt around woods as we make our way back to the village and pub!

There are a couple of gradients but nothing too serious.

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Henley in Arden Moderate Ramble

Burford 10 Mile Ramble

Date: Sunday 27th August 2017 Place: Henley in Arden, Warwickshire (B95 5GD) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Enjoy an interesting, 9 mile picturesque walk with Mick near the historic town of Henley in Arden. The first part is surprisingly hilly but we’ll take it very easy. Along this walk, we will visit the hilltop church at Preston Bagot, the Stratford on Avon Canal and the River Alne. We’ll try to find a tea room or pub as well.

Date: Saturday 2nd September 2017 Place: Burford, Cotswolds (OX18 4QA) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Just to the south of Stow on the Wold nestles the picturesque Cotswold town of Burford. It is surrounded by lovely South Cotswold countryside for us to explore with Mick for this 10 mile walk. The walk also takes in the ever so scenic River Windrush.

Kingsbury & Middleton Hall Ramble

Nordic Walking Fast Track Course

Date: Saturday 2nd September 2017 Place: Kingsbury Water Park nr Middleton (B76 9JD) # Meet: 11am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after Enjoy a lovely 5 mile ramble with Steve Dell followed by an optional lunch. The ramble is flat and suitable for beginners or those who want an easy ramble. We start by walking through Kingsbury Water Park and continue along the towpath of the Birmingham & Fazeley canal. Field paths and a small wood lead us to Middleton Hall where we can stop and admire the restored old building. The return uses a bridleway, fields and a quiet country lane before we return to the lovely canal side pub.

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Date: Sunday August 2017 Place: Town Gate of Sutton Park (B73 6LH) # Meet: 10am to 12.30pm session Cost: £30 (£32 Guest) Incl: Pole hire & instructors We are pleased to bring you the official popular Nordic walking course. We have teamed up with Black Country Nordic Walking Group for this fast track course to learn the basics of Nordic walking. All aspects of Nordic walking will be covered and when you have completed the course you will receive a certificate and be registered with Nordic walking UK and officially qualified!

Nordic walking is growing in popularity with the public and has been running with Spice now for a while with courses and varied walks happening across the Midlands. It involves a special technique which not only burns twice as many calories as normal walking but takes up to 40% pressure of the joints alongside.

Alvechurch Easy Ramble Date: Sunday 3rd September 2017 Place: The Red Lion, Alvechurch (B48 7LG) # Meet: 1pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Enjoy a lovely ramble with Cecilia from this popular pub in Alvechurch. The route goes through farm land and a wood to the hamlet of Rowney Green and then Lower Rowney Green. The return follows a little brook and then Bridleways as we make our way back to the village and pub! There are a couple of gradients but we will take our time. We finish back at the pub where we can have a well-deserved drink and food if you wish.

Peak District Walk: Cuckoostone Dale Date: Sunday 27th August 2017 Place: Near Matlock (DE4 5NA) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) A winding 7 mile walk through the countryside near Matlock to find the rare feature of waterfalls in Derbyshire. We'll also visit the delightfully named Cuckoostone Dale and circle around towards Riber Castle. The first section is a wander along gentle paths never far from Bentley Brook. It's then over green fields and country lanes over to Riber. The final stretch takes us up alongside the waterfalls and through the ruins of mills in lush Lumsdale.

Peak Dist. Walk: Bakewell & Ashford Date: Sunday 3rd September 2017 Place: Between Buxton and Matlock (DE45 1BU) # Meet: 11.15 Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) This 7 mile walk with Steve Dell starts in the lovely town of Bakewell. We start by joining the Monsal Trail as it makes it way past Hassop station and onto Thornbridge Hall. We leave the Monsal Trail there and head down to Ashford in the Water. Here we go through a typical Peaks landscape with its dry stone walls.

From Ashford we follow the mill pools as we make our way back towards Bakewell, finally up and over Endcliff Woods back.

Himley Hall & Baggeridge Ramble Date: Monday 28th August 2017 Place: Between Dudley & Wolverhampton (DY3 4DF) # Meet: 12.15 Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) A lovely revised 6 mile easy to moderate ramble with Rob Smith from the lovely Himley Hall after which we make our way to and follow the course of a disused railway line as we go through Wombourne and then into Baggeridge Country Park. We explore this with open views, woodland and pond side paths. After the ramble we can either have a coffee at the country park café of make a short drive will take us to the unique Crocked House Pub.

Broadway 10 Mile Ramble Date: Saturday 9th September 2017 Place: Broadway, Cotswolds (WR12 7ET) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Always a popular Spice venue, a few miles south of Stratford is the enchanting village of Broadway, known as the Painted Lady of the Cotswolds. It still retains great old world charm and beauty, and is in the heart of an area of outstanding countryside. Mick has in mind around 10 miles of glorious Cotswold countryside, with gentle hills, far reaching views and possibly a few deer to see.

We’ll also find time to enjoy the village & find a cream tea!

Peak District Walk: Parkhouse Hill Date: Monday 28th August 2017 Place: Between Buxton and Matlock (SK17 0NT) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) This 8 mile walk with Mick Cornfield starts from the pretty village of Longnor with its cobbled market place. We follow the bridleway to cross the river Dove at Beggar’s bridge to climb out of the valley to Earl Sterndale. We circle round Hitter hill we see the extent of the dragons back ridge of Parkhouse and Chrome hills, the concessionary path over Parkhouse hill is a sharp contrast to the wide Chrome hill, from both summits there are superb views, Chrome hill is part of a limestone reef knoll and a site of special scientific interest. After circling round Hollins hill we pass Hollinsclough on our way back to Longnor.

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Newton Burgoland & Snarestone Ram

Newhall Mill Ramble/Walk/Open Day

Date: Sunday 17th September 2017 Place: Near Twycross, Leicestershire (DE12 7DB) # Meet: 11.45am start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after A great walk with Rob Smith finishing at a lovely pub with the option of a Sunday Lunch afterwards. This is an easy to moderate ramble. The pace will be the same as usual but we will be going a little further, around 6½ miles but is mostly flat.The route includes the two lovely Leicestershire villages of Newton Burgoland and Snarestone joined by bridleways and local farmland and a section of the Ashby canal. There’s even a half way stop at a lovely pub.

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Date: Sunday 10 September 2017 Place: Walmley, Sutton Coldfield (B76 1QU) # Meet: 11am (or 2pm if just for ramble) Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Now restored to a working condition, New Hall Mill is a lovely time capsule of our industrial heritage and has been described as 'Sutton's little gem'. Our Day has 3 parts to it and we hope you will come for the lot – but if you just want the ramble, you are welcome to join us just for this at 2pm. The day is made up of: ● A Guided History Walk around the Grounds of New Hall Hotel (11.15pm): We will join this short public walk (approx. 1 hour) by local historian Marian Baxter telling the story of this moated manor house close to the Mill which is now a country house hotel. ● Free Time at New Hall Mill Open Day: After the walk we can look around the Mill and gardens, have tea and cakes in the café and enjoy the attractions including the “Tuneless Choir”, displays of steam models and Vintage Cars from the Owen Car Club. ● Easy Ramble around New Hall Valley Country Park (2pm): Richard will meet everyone outside the café at 2pm for an easy ramble of around 3 miles around this lovely country park.

Peak Dist. Walk: Wetton & Butterton Date: Sunday 17th September 2017 Place: Near Dovedale (DE6 2AF) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) Starting from the village of Wetton we descend the valley to visit Thors Cave with the impressive entrance and view of the valley below. We descend to the valley bottom then a steady climb to the village of Grindon, where the parish church of All Saints has interesting stone carvings inside and out. From here we follow the footpaths to Butterton. In the 1850's there was a sulphurous spring in the village and an unusual ford. From here we descend by the Hoo Brook and through the Waterslacks to emerge at Wetton Mill, circling round Wetton Hill. It’s 7½ miles with Mick Cornfield.

Peak District Walk: Cromford & Lea Date: Sunday 10th September 2017 Place: Near Matlock (DE4 3RQ) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) This 7 mile walk with Mick Cornfield starts from near the Heritage Mills where we climb steadily to the eastern side of the Derwent Valley - the peaceful side! We contour round then climb to cross the Hearthstone Lane track to descend past Coombs Wood to the hamlet of Lea. We then descend through Holloway and then to the canal and the Derwent Valley Heritage Way for the return through the tunnel, over the aqueduct, past the pumping station.

Tewkesbury Abbey & Battlefields Ram Date: Sunday 17th September 2017 Place: Deerhurst, near Tewkesbury (M5 J9) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) This day ramble with Richard is only around 6½ - 7 easy miles and has so many points of interest that we shall take our time and enjoy them. Our route is inspired by Roger Seedhouse’s book “Walks Through History”. It’s a gentle walk but loaded with history. We start by discovering the Saxon Odda’s Chapel in Deerhurst (entry free) before following the Wars of the Roses Battle Trail along the banks of the lovely River Severn to Tewkesbury. Here there will be an opportunity to visit The Abbey and no doubt find a café. Our return to Deerhurst takes us across the battlefield sites of “Bloody Meadow”. A board gives an overview of the history there and Richard will add more.

Tardebigge Locks & Stoke Prior Ram Date: Sunday 10th September 2017 Place: Near Bromsgrove (B60 3AU) # Meet: 1pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after We start from the newly refurbished Queens Head with great food and Steve Dell as a ramble leader.. It’s around 5½ miles, using part of the Worcester & Birmingham canal including the Tardebigge flight of locks - the longest in the UK. We also take in views of Tardebigge reservoir. All linked with nice farmland and quiet country lanes. There is the option of Sunday Lunch after.

Napton on the Hill Easy/Mod Ramble Date: Sunday 24th September 2017 Place: Napton on the Hill, Warwickshire (CV47 8LZ) # Meet: 12 noon Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) At the request of many regulars Steve is doing some more easy to moderate rambles. The pace will be the same but we will walk a bit further. This new ramble is from the lovely village of Napton on the Hill. The walk is approx 6 miles and uses some lovely countryside as well as part of the Oxford canal. We start in the village and walk east to Upper Shuckburgh and Shuckburgh hills.

There are some gradients but nothing too strenuous. After passing Lower Shuckburgh we join the canal, passing Napton Junction, where the Grand Union Canal branches off and Napton Marina.

Earlswood Twilight Ramble & Supper Date: Thursday 14th September 2017 Place: Earlswood, near Solihull (B94 6AQ) # Meet: 7pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after An easy 3½ mile ramble with Steve Dell on good paths around Earlswood Lakes and Woods. Twilight rambles start in the light but finish in the dark. The woods and the lakes are atmospheric in the dark. Back at the pub we will have an area reserved for us whilst we enjoy our pre-ordered food. Bring a torch!

Preston Bagott Easy Ramble & Lunch Date: Saturday 16th September 2017 Place: Preston Bagot, Warwickshire (B95 5EE) # Meet: 11.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) We return to the lovely Crabmill pub for another ramble with Rob Smith who will lead us for around 4 miles, which is mostly flat with some gentle gradients. We initially head towards Henley and then join the Heart of England Way as we go through farmland using field paths. The last section is along the pretty Stratford Canal towpath. After we can drink and/or eat at the pub.

Peak Dist. Walk: Hartington & Biggin Date: Sunday 24th September 2017 Place: Between Buxton and Ashbourne (SK17 0AL) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) Ann Ball will take us a 6½ mile route from Hartington, into Biggin Dale. We follow this beautiful quiet dale through the nature reserve and past the cave, to the river at Wolfscote Dale.

We following the river through Beresford Dale for refreshments.

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Rodney's Pillar Hard Walk

Wilmcote Easy Ramble

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Date: Sunday 24 September 2017 Place: Crewgreen Village, Shropshire (SY5 9AT) # Meet: 11am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) This group of hills is notable for the large stone pillar on the top that can be clearly seen from the A5, erected in honour of Lord Rodney, Admiral of the Fleet. It is also known that it was a hill fort around 300BC and as such these hills provide outstanding views of the plains surrounding them, as well as the Welsh hills in the far distance. This walk has a number of climbs and steep descents, with the risk of some short sections of boggy track. It is not suitable for beginners; there are also a number of dodgy stiles to cross. Our route goes though Crewgreen and then starts climbing over Pritchards Hill before a wooded descent and then steadily climbs towards Rodney's Pillar. After recovering from the gruelling last 100yds, we will continue along the short ridge before descending and cutting across to the long ridge of Middleton Hill, the site of a second Iron Age fort. After a stiff climb, this ridge undulates downwards following bridleways to bring us back. We’ll retire to the Old Hand & Diamond Inn. They do food all day and B&B if you’re too exhausted to drive!

Date: Sunday 1st October 2017 Place: Near Stratford Upon Avon (CV37 9XJ) # Meet: 1pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after A pleasant easy ramble from the lovely village of Wilmcote, near to Mary Arden’s House with Cecilia. The ramble is around 4½ miles and is mostly flat. We go through farmland using field paths and bridleways, woodland and the latter part is along the Stratford Canal. Back at the pub we can have a drink and lunch if required.

We start/end at the Mary Arden Inn which dates back to the 1700s

Urban Ramble: Bham Waterfront

Romsley & Waseley Hills Ramble

Date: Sunday 24th September 2017 Place: Tom's Kitchen, Mailbox, Birmingham (B1 1RE) Meet: 10.30am for “Brunch” Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Toms Kitchen Orders Today we have a ramble with a difference. We meet at Tom’s Kitchen in The Mailbox where we will have tables booked for breakfast/ brunch (pay on day) but we then work off the calories with an unusual 7 miles following Birmingham waterways out of the city centre and back using greenways, parks and some urban roads. As we are following waterways, the route is all flat.

The “Brunch”: You can choose what you like, be it a full breakfast or just a coffee/ Danish. It’s up to you and we settle up individually on the day. As soon as everyone has eaten we start.

The Walk: A short stroll from our brunch, we start by following the Birmingham Canal south from Brindley Place for approx. 2 miles, enjoying this once vital industrial transport link that has now been restored for the benefit of boaters, joggers, cyclists and walkers like us. We leave the canal at Birmingham University to follow Bourne Brook. On this stretch we will get great views of the University Campus and follow quiet roads to Cannon Hill.

From here we will be following the River Rea back into Birmingham. We walk the length of Cannon Hill Park before leaving it beside the Edgbaston Cricket Ground. This last stretch is a lot more urban but still has some landmarks to discover. We will pass Calthorpe Park and walk along what was (until 1993) Birmingham's busiest Red Light District! We will pass Birmingham's Central Mosque at Highgate and finally return to The City along Hurst Street where vibrant Chinese and Gay quarters add colour in contrast to The National Trust "Back to Backs" that remind us of Birmingham's austere Past. It's a fascinating journey, so please join us!

Date: Sunday 8th October 2017 Place: Romsley, near Halesowen (B62 0LF) # Meet: 1pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extra: Option of meal after A lovely new 5½ mile ramble with Rob Smith with a revised route this year. Initially the ramble climbs up Romsley Hill where there are some great views of The Black Country and Worcestershire.

We then dropdown into Waseley Hills Country Park where we join the Monarchs Way. After skirting round Waseley Hill we pause for a coffee at the visitor’s centre before returning to the pub. Although there are some inclines (which gives us the great views!) there isn't anything too strenuous and we will take our time. The pub does a fantastic Sunday Lunch and has great views!

Milton under Wychwood Ramble Date: Sunday 8th October 2017 Place: Milton u. Wychwood, Cotswolds (OX7 6LA) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) An 8 mile walk with Mick Cornfield starting from the Quart Pot Inn. We follow footpaths to Bruern Grange then onto the village of Fifield, down the lane to the Merrymouth Inn, crossing to the bridleway passing the edge of Little Rissington Airfield before turning south passing Choake's barn to Tangley Hall and back.

Robs Railway Ramble: Nuneaton Date: Sunday 15th October 2017 Place: Nuneaton Railway Station (CV11 4AL) # Meet: 11.15am (Car park) for 11:43am train* Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Extras: Train fare (TBC) This is a new 7½ mile ramble and we initially take the train one stop to Atherstone where we alight and join the Coventry Canal.

Leaving the canal we use local paths as we make our way up to Hartshill Hays Country Park. Here we have a brief rest stop at the tea window. After this we continue through the park and round the edge of the disused Judkins Quarry before returning to the start via the canal and local streets. There will be a pub for Sunday lunch or drink. *Time is approximate - please check joining details.

Bewdley & Arley Ramble Date: Sunday 22nd October 2017 Place: Bewdley, Worcestershire (DY12 2DX) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) We return to the wonderful Severn Valley and Wyre Forest with Steve Dell. You have the option of a 6 mile moderate ramble in the morning, getting the steam train back from Arley, or you can walk back making it a 10 miler. We start from the lovely town of Bewdley and head towards Arley following the river Severn. We then head up into the Wyre Forest following Dowles Brook. After discovering some of the forest we return to the river and follow it into Arley, passing the famous Victoria Bridge. Arley is a wonderful riverside village with a great pub. From here you have a choice of getting the steam train back to Bewdley on the Severn Valley Railway or walking back. The route back takes us though the delightful Eyemore Wood and then back to the river,

Peak Dist. Walk: Hathersage to Hope Date: Sunday 1st October 2017 Place: From Hope Station, Peak District (S33 6RD) # Meet: 10.15am (train departs) Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) Extra: £2.60 train ticket Enjoy 11½ miles with Mick Cornfield, starting on the train from Hope. From Hathersage station we first pass the church and Little John's grave before descending the valley to Bronte cottage where we start the climb to join the top of Stanage Edge for superb views. Following the edge past the high point at High Neb, we follow the edge then the footpath and bridleway down to the Ladybower Inn. We cross the viaduct and the Ladybower Dam for the final climb of the day through the trees to the top of Win Hill.

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Peak Dist. Walk: Edale - Rushop Edge Calke Abbey Autumnal Ramble Date: Sunday 22nd October 2017 Place: Edale Village, Peak District (S33 7ZA) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £5.50 (£6.50 Guest) A classical Peak District walk of 7 miles with Paul Hunt from THE rambler's village of Edale and capturing panoramic views along the ridge of Rushop Edge. This walk begins and ends in the village of Edale popular with ramblers and famous as the starting point of the Pennine Way. Good walks and knobbly knees are in abundance around here. We'll be bound for a south west route that takes us up on to Rushop Edge which is a favourite Peak District ridges with many hikers for its well defined paths and its panoramic views across to the Kinder massif and to the White Peak in the south. Leaving the village and its cute train station we'll cross the Sheffield-Manchester railway and watch it disappear into Cowburn Tunnel as we ascend the track known as Chapel Gate. Do not fear .. the route is not straight up but is at an angle to the steep south hillside. As you walk you will soon start to enjoy fine views down the rural Vale of Edale surrounded by majestic high moorlands. After a mile we reach moorland plateau and the route flattens out as we reach Rushop Edge and head to Lords Seat with its ancient tumulus. As you walk along the Edge see what you can pick out to the south .. Black Edge and Buxton beyond, Eldon Hill marking the start of the White Peak District and the natural amphitheatre of Winnats Pass as it snakes down to Castelton. As we head eastwards along the Edge, Mam Tor comes into view and the mother mountain beckons us to follow the ridge .. so we do … after a (steady) pilgrimage up the shivering mountain we continue along the great ridgeand back to Edale.

Date: Sunday 29th October 2017 Place: Calke Park, South Derbyshire (DE73 7LE) # Meet: 11:30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) We return to this lovely area with Steve Dell to experience the wonderful autumnal colours. This 5 mile ramble explores the Calk Abbey and Calke Park Estate which is beautiful at any time of the year but we go now to see their amazing colours. As well as woodland the walk will include some waterside paths and will explore the wider estate and venture in to the surrounding countryside including the lovely Dimminsdale Woods.

Hopwood & Barnt Green Ramble Date: Sunday 5th November 2017 Place: Hopwood, near Alvechurch (B48 7AB) # Meet: 12:15pm Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) A lovely 6 mile ramble with Rob Smith at a great time to see the trees in their glorious colours. This time we head out towards the Bittell reservoirs and Barnt Green. We use sections of the canal and skirts around Upper Bittell reservoir. We take in part of the Lickey Hills Country Park and woods returning via Barnt Green

Cannock Chase War Ramble Date: Sunday 12th November 2017 Place: Coppice Hill Car Park, Brocton # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) Remembrance Sunday seems a poignant time for a themed ramble on Cannock Chase which was very active in wartime and has many secrets to share. The walk is “moderate” at 7½ miles and we’ll take it at a gentle pace with lots of stops to take in the sights so expect a pretty full day out. We have planned in a half hour café stop after a couple of miles where we can buy drinks and home cooked snacks. Our route will include visiting such sights as ● a former parade ground ● Freda's Grave ● Women's Auxiliary Corps hut lines ● a now dismantled camp railway ● The Katyn Memorial ● the Commonwealth War Cemetery ● German War Cemetery and Rifle Ranges from the 1st and 2nd World Wars.

Richard will have some basic historical information to share.

Warwickshire Villages Ramble Date: Saturday 28th October 2017 Place: Welford on Avon, nr Stratford (CV37 6GR) # Meet: 10.30am Start Cost: £6 (£7 Guests) A fine 9 mile walk with Mick taking in three of the finest villages, one where Charles II spent a night during his southward escape in 1651 and one which has one of only a handful of maypoles left in the whole country. We'll walk on part of the Heart of England Way and plan to find a pub for a bite to eat afterwards.

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Shooting & Target Sports Whether you want to be John Wayne or William Tell, we’ll show you how!

Western Style Rifle Shooting .. fire "the real thing" with the experts Sundays: 20 August, 8th October or 3rd December 2017 Birmingham Shooting Centre, Hockley (B18 7RL) – see directions online Choose time when booking (check available timeslots online or call for info) £29 – PAID AS - £4 deposit to Spice to book. Balance of £25 to club on arrival (no credit cards) Members only (no guests) for security and due to limited numbers. Incl. approx 50 rounds of ammo. Bring photo ID With extremely tight firearms laws, it is rare to find opportunities for our members to fire live ammunition. However, under close expert supervision, here’s an opportunity to fire Western Style Lever Action Rifles (like John Wayne used!).

They are 357 Magnum Calibre, but recoil is similar to that of a full power spring action air rifle, so you don’t need to be built like a cowboy! After booking in (bring photo ID such as passport or driving licence), we will have a safety talk including range rules and weapon handling safety and etiquette. We’ll then be introduced to our weapons and have time honing our skills on the range. Rules dictate that tuition has to be 1:1 when you are using this class of rifle.

Important Notes: Please read the notes on the online version of this writeup before booking to ensure you are eligible.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Indoor Rifle Shooting Evening .. learn to shoot air rifles at this world class centre Date: Wednesday 6th September 2017 Place: National Indoor Shooting Centre, Aldersley Stadium, Wolverhampton (WV6 9NW) Meet: 7.45 for 8pm start Cost: £16 (£18 Guest) including all ammunition, equipment & instruction Did you know that the top indoor shooting facility, where our Olympic teams train is here in the West Midlands? Air rifle shooting is great fun and after learning the basics everyone should be able to hit the target. A team of qualified instructors will take you through the basics. The evening will start with a safety talk and demonstration before we’re divided into small groups. We then have a chance to put theory into practice on the 10m range, firing rifles at fixed and moving targets.

SWAT Training Mission .. an incredible special forces style experience Date: Sunday 10th September 2017 Place: Bassetts Pole, Sutton Coldfield (B75 5SA) – see directions see online Meet: 1pm Start Cost: £45 Member, £49 Guest How you would cope as part of a SWAT team storming a building? This is your chance to find out! This close quarter’s battle experience has been developed using new and specialised 'Kill - House' style SWAT training facilities purpose built.

The Kill House has 40 rooms, where our scenarios will include: “Hostage Rescue”, “Sweep & Clear” & “Stop the Bomb”.

We’ll be issued with SWAT uniforms and tactical gear (weapons are powerful but fire only paint) and take a military convoy to the briefing centre near to the “embassy” to wait for the signal. Go Go Go! Read more about this event online. ______________________________

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our schedules on line at www,spicebham.com so you don’t miss a thing. We also update members on a weekly basis with out “Weekly Bulletin” by email and via our Facebook Page.

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Social Pursuits You don’t have to jump out of planes to enjoy Spice!

This is the category where you find all manner of strange, sociable ways to have fun as a group. Enjoy!

Ten Pin Bowling (Acocks Green) .. enjoy our monthly bowling night!

Dates: Mondays: ● 14 August ● 11th September ● 9th October or ● 13th November 2017 Place: AG Bowl, corner of Warwick Rd & Westley Rd, Acocks Green (B27 7UH) Meet: 7.30pm prompt Cost: £10 (£12 Guest) Includes: 2 games, Spice coordinator, shoe hire One of our regions most famous bowling venues - independently run and very “Spice friendly”. We form fairly random teams and have 2 games during the evening. Don’t worry if you can’t bowl – as none of us can - but we have fun trying!

Spetchley Gardens with the Head Gardener .. a guided walk through many styles of garden Date: Sunday 30th July 2017 Place: Spetchley, Worcestershire (WR5 1RS) # Meet: 11.30am for 12noon tour Cost: £14 (£16 Guest) Incl: Entrance, guide, Spice coordinator This beautiful historic garden, surrounded by ancient parkland, deer park and lakes is set in wonderful Worcestershire countryside with far reaching views to the Malvern Hills. It’s a stunning 30 acre garden, with a Bath Stone Georgian mansion as a backdrop.Our walking tour is with the Head Gardener and takes up to 90 minutes and we’ll be able to ask questions on various garden management issues. We’ll discover many different forms of garden, each demanding a different style of management. There are many aspects of gardening all coming together to make our experience as enjoyable as possible. Afterwards we’ll visit the wonderful tea room, where you can buy a light lunch or afternoon tea.

Peaky Blinders Night .. discover their dark history th

Date: Friday 8 September 2017 Place: Black Country Museum, Tipton Road, Dudley, West Midlands (DY1 4SQ) # Meet: 6.45pm for 7.00pm Cost: £18 (£20 Guest) Incl: Co ordinator, booking & admin fees A very special night at The Black Country Museum which has proved so popular that we had to act fast to get tickets for Spice! We’re stepping inside the murky underworld of the BBC TV series Peaky Blinders as you discover their dark history. Dig out your flat caps and take a stroll around the set for the Shelby’s scrap metal yard where illegal goods are moved along the historic Birmingham canal network. We’ll explore the smoky back streets and slum housing that gave birth to the notorious gang. Head on over to the Museum’s very own ‘Garrison pub’ for a pint of real local ale. We’ll also experience the roaring nightlife that characterised the interwar years and enjoy live music, entertainment and dancing.

What is Peaky Blinders? It’s a gangster family epic set in 1919 Birmingham, centered on a gang who sew razor blades in the peaks of their caps, and their fierce boss Tommy Shelby, who means to move up in the world.

Tamworth Castle & Staffordshire Hoard Night .. enjoy this atmospheric castle by night! th

Date: Saturday 30 September 2017 Place: Tamworth Castle # (B79 7NA) Meet: 6.45pm for 7.00pm - 9.00pm Cost: £17.50 Member, £19.50 Guest Includes: Tour, tea and cake Tamworth Castle is opening out of hours exclusively for Spice to have a special tour and see some of the Staffordshire Hoard on display there. This great castle has overlooked the confluence of the Tame and Anker since the Normans built the original motte and bailey castle around 1075. It has had many owners and was altered many times over the centuries.

The oldest surviving section is the north wing with its 13th century arched doorway, and there are examples of different periods of building through to the late 18th century. The most impressive room is the Great Hall with its oak timbered roof. The castle contains a museum that recreates how parts of the castle would have been used during different periods of its history. We’ll tour 15 rooms are open to visitors including Great Hall, Dungeon and Haunted Bedroom.

We will also visit an exhibition featuring 18 pieces from the Staffordshire Hoard before relaxing with refreshments.

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Stonehenge Sunset Tour .. exclusive access to this ancient wonder of the world!

Date: Saturday 5th August 2017 Place: Stonehenge, Wiltshire (SP3 4DX) # Meet: 7.15pm to 10pm Cost: £48 (£53 Guest) Incl: Spice exclusive tour to the Inner Circle This evening we enjoy special access to Stonehenge, after the site has closed, exclusively for Spice, with the opportunity to enter the Inner Circle (usually not accessible to the public) and see the stones up close. We are even allowed to touch them.

Our guide, archaeologist and historian Don Bryan, has specialist knowledge of our distant past and promises to bring the landscape to life for us. Don may also bring his dowsing rods and let you try dowsing the energy lines which cross the circle. Weather permitting we should also be able to witness a spectacular sunset from inside the circle.

Sex & the Tudors at Tutbury Castle with Supper .. a shocking & hilarious journey back to 1580! st

Date: Friday 21 July 2017 Place: Tutbury Castle # (DE13 9JF) Meet: 7.15pm for 7.30pm - 10.30pm Cost: £23.50 (£26 Guest) Incl: Buffet, Castle entrance & parking, host & expert A wonderful evening at one of the country’s most historic (and haunted!) castles. The castle has a remarkable résumé having been established in 1066 by William the Conqueror, and visited by Richard the Lionheart, Margaret D'Anjou (who lived there), The Black Prince, Charles 1st (during the Civil War, when the Castle held siege for 6 weeks), Henry 4th (who was declared King there), Edward 1st, Mary Queen of Scots (as prisoner 3 times), Prince Rupert and Eleanor of Aquitaine.

Lesley Smith, Curator of Tutbury Castle is a world expert in the sex habits of the Tudors. She will give her talk in her full costume of Mary Queen of Scots, and come equipped (no pun intended) with leather condoms, lemons (!), and other paraphernalia that is sure to make your eyes water (girls & boys!). She will entertain us with tales of the 'brothel door', answer even the most lurid questions you are brave enough to fire at her and give us many hot sex tips from the days of Edmund Blackadder! The evening will start will be a light buffet of Home Carved Ham, Quiches, Coleslaw and Mixed Salads. The Castle is also licensed to sell alcohol, but you may not ask for a slice of lemon after you have heard this talk!

Lichfield Cathedral Treasures & Light Show .. an unusual afternoon of 3 parts Date: Saturday 19th August 2017 Place: Lichfield Cathedral (WS13 7LD) # Meet: 4pm (ends around 8pm after light show) Cost: £12.50 (£14.50 Guest) Incl: Private treasures tour & ticket for 7pm light show Lichfield Cathedral is an incredible building and a unique time capsule of history. Today we will enjoy several aspects of this spectacular place together: ● Treasures Tour - 4pm: A rare opportunity for a small group of lucky Spice Members to be shown into the most secure areas of the Cathedral where the greatest treasures are kept. Our guide will be able to get us up close with some priceless pieces and explain their history and what makes each piece so special. In particular we’ll see lots of historic silverware and also meet the Lichfield Angel! This tour will last 60 – 90 minutes depending on questions. ● Optional Choral Evensong with Headlands Choir – 5.30pm: After our tour we can enjoy a visiting choir in The Cathedral at Choral Evensong, or if you prefer, you could visit Chapters Coffee Shop or sightseeing. Evensong lasts 45 minutes. ● Cathedral Light Show & “Great Exhibition” – 7pm: For the last part of our afternoon at Lichfield we have tickets to see a light show at the Cathedral which is part of what they call their “Great Exhibition”. We have a 1 hour slot.

Prison Escape .. do you have what it takes to break out? nd

Date: Saturday 2 September 2017 Place: The Dana, Shrewsbury (SY1 2HP) # Meet: 11am Start Cost: £55 Member, £58 Guest Who hasn’t seen ‘Shawshank Redemption’ or ‘Escape from Alcatraz’? Think you have what it takes to escape an actual prison? Now you can find out. HM Prison Shrewsbury was a Category B/C men's prison in Shrewsbury in its heyday.

However, it was decommissioned in 2013 and is now being used to offer the general public an insight into prison life.

Upon arrival we’ll be given an induction covering the prison layout and event rules. Prisoners will then change into their prison clothes and get locked in their cells. From here the challenge begins. Edited Write Up - Read more online 34

Escape Room Challenge .. a great team challenge adventure! rd

Date: Sunday 3 September 2017 Place: Escape Time, New Oscott, Sutton Coldfield (B73 6RG) # Meet: 7.20 for 7.30pm (1 hour event plus optional drink/ curry after) Cost: £18 (£22 Guest) Incl: Game, Spice Coordinator & Exclusive Spice Booking of Centre Excape Rooms are becoming really popular, so when we got the chance to book the brand new Escape Time facility in New Oscott, we jumped straight in! Escape Time is run by escape room fanatic and actor James Bartlett, who you may know from Dr Who, Hollyoaks or The Dumping Ground. He researched all the things he liked best from the escape rooms he had tried and has put them together in his own facility near Sutton Coldfield. They have 2 rooms and each takes max 6 people and we have booked both rooms during the evening. There is only time for one game, so you just need to decide which to choose when booking. Each game takes approx. 1 hour. Full details of the two games are given on our website.

Firework Champions at Ragley Hall .. see firework companies compete for the most spectacular display Date: Saturday 9th September 2017 Place: Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warwickshire (B49 5NL) # Meet: from 6pm (entry from 5pm) Cost: £20 (£22.50 Guest) Incl: Ticket & booking fees & contribution towards Gazebo permit ● 4 professional firework companies ● 4 spectacular shows choreographed to music ● One winner!

This fabulous pyrotechnic spectacular is a firm favourite of Spice members. This year we’re enjoying the show at the fabulous venue of Ragley Hall. This is the 5th year we’ve put this on as a Spice event and we usually get a group of around 40 happy Spice members and pitch a Spice gazebo as a rendezvous point. It’s a great summer evening event in the grounds of one of England’s finest stately homes, with probably the best fireworks displays you will ever see! Read more online.

Elizabeth I at Tutbury Castle & Supper .. a fabulous evening of costumed entertainment! th

Date: Friday 15 September 2017 Place: Tutbury Castle (DE13 9JF) # Meet: 7.15pm for 7.30pm - 10.30pm Cost: £23.50 (£26 Guest) Incl: Buffet supper, Castle/parking, Spice Host & Elizabeth A wonderful evening at one of the countries most historic (and most haunted!) castles. The evening will start will be a light buffet of Home Carved Ham, Quiches, Coleslaw and Mixed Salads. We will then be introduced to Queen Elizabeth 1 st as she is brought to life in a very acurate re-enactment by historian Lesley Smith. As she tells of he life, and her challenges, you will really get “beneath the skin” of what it was to be Elizabeth. This glittering presentation will transport us back to the time of Drake, Raleigh and Shakespeare on England’s voyage into the Renaissance. “Lesley is always magnificent”.

Treasures of the Museum Tour ..enjoy the highlights of this world class museum rd

Date: Saturday 23 September 2017 Place: Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (B3 3DH) Meet: 10.45am for 11am tour (lasts 60-90 mins) Cost: £10.50 (£12.50 Guest) Includes: Guided tour with James McCormack A relaxed stroll around the museum with our guide James McCormack. The tour will be very light hearted and focus on the history of both the building and the collection. After, we can continue the discussions in the Edwardian Tea Room.

New Members Beer, Skittles & Supper .. a great way to get to make a start with the group th

Date: Friday 6 October 2017 Place: Lea Marston Hotel, Haunch Lane, Lea Marston just off M42 J9 (B76 0BY) Meet: 6.45pm for 7.00pm prompt start Cost: £23 (£25 Guest) includes a “sit down” meal A beer & skittles evening is always fun and Lea Marston have a purpose full size alley. There will be helpers to organise us into teams, reset the pins and keep score. There's also a bar for the 'beer' part of the event and a “basket type” meal. ______________________________ 35

Spice Go Behind the Scenes Spicer’s always want to know that bit more about things, so here’s a series of opportunities to go ‘behind the scenes’ and ask questions at some interesting places.

If you have any ideas or inside leads into interesting places (where you work for instance?) do please let us know - and we'll see if we can come to visit.

Vulcan Bomber Restoration Visit .. enjoy this awesome aircraft Date: Saturday 14th October 2017 Place: Wellesbourne, nr Stratford upon Avon (CV35 9EU) # Meet: 10.00am Cost: No cost to book but please donate at least £10 to the restoration society on day Avro Vulcan XM655 (pictured right with its crew & fire crew) was one of the last v-bombers produced for the RAF, and part of the UK's nuclear deterrent force throughout the 60s & 70s. XM655 is one of the few Vulcans remaining in ground running condition and The 655 Maintenance and Preservation Society aim to keep it running for as long possible. Today we join up with the restoration group which is run entirely by volunteers. There’s a short talk about the work of the team on arrival before we split into groups of 4 to spend some time in the cockpit. A video will also be shown about the aircraft and there will be an opportunity to ask questions to the dedicated volunteers. Tea, coffee & biscuits will be available.

BBC Birmingham Behind the Scenes .. enjoy a tour of BBC Birmingham's home in The Mailbox Date: Saturday 30th September 2017 Place: BBC, The Mailbox, Birmingham (B1 1RF) Meet: 1pm tour. Meet in BBC reception 10 mins before Cost: £10 (£12 guest) (includes booking fees & Spice coordinator) BBC Birmingham has thrown open its doors, offering you the chance to go inside the state-of-the-art studios situated in The Mailbox. Take a peek behind the scenes of programmes which are made here and try your hand at some interactive fun! During the tour there is always the chance of bumping into a favourite presenter or radio DJ, hearing some trade secrets or being party to some juicy gossip while passing the actors' green room... They'll take you inside as many studios as business allows but please remember that BBC Birmingham is a working building and no two tours are the same.

New Dogs Home Visit in Solihull .. discover how dogs are rescued, reunited & rehomed!

Date: Saturday 28th October 2017 Place: Catherine-de-Barnes, Solihull (B92 0DJ) # Meet: 11.30am to approx 1pm Cost: Free but please donate £5 and/or bring a gift of old blankets, bedding, toys & food for the dogs Birmingham Dogs Home was founded in 1892 on land made available by the late Sir Alfred Gooch Bart, in New Canal Street, Birmingham. In 1987 they moved to New Bartholomew Street in Digbeth and now, due to the redevelopment of Digbeth, they are on the move again to a brand new, purpose built Dog Rescue and Welfare Centre in Solihull. The new centre, features 120 glass fronted kennels with under floor heating. We will be given an overview of the work of the dogs home and their aims. This will be followed by a guided walk around the kennels veterinary rooms and other facilities.

Erasmus Darwin Evening & Cellar Tour ..a special opportunity to visit his house & its cellars Date: Sunday 29th October 2017 Place: Corner of Beacon Street & Cathedral Close, Lichfield (WS13 7AD) Meet: 2.30pm (Ends 5pm) Cost: £13.50 (£15.50 Guest) incl. venue hire, guides & refreshments We’ve arranged another Spice exclusive tonight, hiring a popular venue and its staff to open in an evening – just for us!

Erasmus Darwin House is a hidden gem of Lichfield. Tucked away in the Cathedral Close, it was once the home of Erasmus Darwin, grandfather of Charles Darwin, and an important and influential figure in his own right. Inventor, poet, scientist, doctor and philosopher, he a founder of the Lunar Society, and had his own theories of evolution which influenced his grandson. The house will be open exclusively to our group, and will begin with an introduction to the house and the man, followed by a chance to explore the house, famous cellars and herb garden. Teas & coffees are provided.

What’s the # If there’s a # symbol after a location it’s Spice code to tell you that you’ll be getting further joining details by email nearer the time

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JCB VIP Visit & Breakfast .. discover this world leading company Date: Monday 18th September 2017 Place: Rocester, Staffordshire (ST14 5LS) # Meet: 8.50am for 9am – 12noon visit Cost: £24 (£28 Guest) Incl: Guided factory tour, film, exhibition tour, refreshments & breakfast We are delighted to showcase this amazing British company in the Spice Programme. This time we are starting with a hearty breakfast in their Hospitality Suite. This is a 100% Soil Associated organic restaurant and offers a really unique dining experience in the heart of the company. Our visit will begin with a welcome from JCB, followed by a short presentation in the JCB Theatre with their corporate AV show reel on the global manufacturing facilities and products.

Afterwards we will be invited to join one of their Tour Guides for a personal tour of the new ‘’Story of JCB’’ exhibition and the JCB shop. The tour will then move on to the assembly line of the world famous Backhoe Loader machine , here you will see the process of how the machine is built from the delivery of the sheet steel, profiling, laser cutting, welding, paint shop, assembly and finally the finished product! The tour will also include the office facilities.

Open Cockpits Night at RAF Cosford .. get up close and personal with the icons of flight!

Date: Saturday 16th September 2017 Place: Visitor Centre,RAF Cosford Museum, Nr Telford # (TF11 8UP) Meet: 5.30pm for 6.00pm - 9.00pm Cost: £16 (£18.50 Guests) Incl: Booking & admin fees,Spice host, entrance to museum & parking This exclusive evening will commence at 6:00pm with a wide range of aircraft available for closer viewing on the night including; transport aircraft, jet fighters and unique research airframes. We will be able to get a feel for what it was like to fly these much love machines and in addition, have after-hours access to the Museum.

Note: This is not a Spice exclusive event, there will be public also. However, the Spice host will try to keep us together.

Sutton Park History Walk with John Porter .. an entertaining walk by the Head Ranger Date: Saturday 29th July 2017 Place: Streetly Gate, Thornhill Road, Sutton Coldfield (B74 3EW) Meet: 12.45pm for 1pm – 3pm walk Cost: £9 (£11 Guest) Many Spice members live in the vicinity of Sutton Park and enjoy its 3.7 square miles of wild and beautiful space.

However, most of us don't know its secrets - its rich history. We’ll walk through time on a route spanning 5000 years of history. John is fascinated by the history of the park and what its features tell us about our ancestors. It is a rare privilege to be on land that las been left alone for such a long time and this walk will really will open your eyes to the secrets of this ‘time capsule’ of an environment. John is also a very entertaining and will find lots of laughs along the way!

Barton Arms Tour & Thai Meal .. a fascinating evening at this historic venue nd

Date: Wednesday 2 August 2017 Place: 144 High Street, Aston, Birmingham (B6 4UP) Meet: 6.45pm for 7.00pm Start Cost: £22 (£24 Guest) Incl: Private Spice guided tour of the pub & cellar. 2 course Thai meal The Bartons Arms is one of the most beautiful pubs in the country and one of Birmingham’s best kept secrets. We have arranged a private Spice tour of this famous old pub, where we can marvel at its Victorian tiles, its magnificent wrought iron staircase and splendid “snob screens”. We’ll also take a journey down to its unique cellar and discover the ingenuity of the Victorians. There will also be a light-hearted talk and slide show, charting the pub’s amazing history and its links to the Aston Hippodrome and Laurel & Hardy. Find out if Laurel & Hardy really did stay there? .. and were the Bartons’ tiles really the inspiration behind Aston Villa’s famous claret and blue colours? The talk and tour will be hosted by local author, John Ullah, who was born just a mile from The Bartons Arms and knows it better than anyone.

Our Thai Dinner: The pub now has a terrific reputation for its Thai Food. The evening will finish with a delicious 2course Thai meal, served in what is claimed to be “probably the most beautiful restaurant in the UK”.

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our website, Weekly Bulletin by email and Facebook Page for updates.

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Royal Crown Derby Pottery Visit .. discover the home of beautiful bone china th

Date: Thursday 10 August 2017 Place: Derby (DE23 8JZ) # Meet: 11am Cost: £6.50 (£7.50 Guest) includes tour, host & parking Extra: Lunch in tearooms Royal Crown Derby is world renowned for its luxury fine bone china products, manufactured solely in England. Come and enjoy a day out finding out how this beautiful china is made. The plan is to go round the Museum and the Exhibition and look at the collection of Derby Porcelain and discover Crown Derby’s rich, quintessentially British history. We can have some lunch in the Tea rooms, after which we will have a guided factory tour to discover how each item of English fine bone china is made, from clay to the final gilded products. We’ll see the skills and creativity that makes RCD unique.

Hippodrome Back Stage Tour .. get inside this famous theatre!

Date: Saturday 12th August 2017 Place: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street (B5 4TB) # Meet: 10.15am for 10.30am tour Cost: £12 (£15 Guest) includes guide, booking fees, coordinator Take a peek behind the scenes of a leading theatre which has recently been renovated to one of the finest you will find anywhere in the world. This is your chance to stand on the same stage as our most famous actors and actresses and have some of the magic explaining such as scene changes, costumes and “is that real blood?”. The secrets of sound and light are also revealed. All and more is covered in this stimulating 1½ hour tour.

Jewellery Quarter Cemeteries Tour .. let stories from the grave unlock our history th

Date: Sunday 20 August 2017 Place: Rose Villa Tavern,172 Warstone Lane, Jewellery Quarter, B'ham (B18 6JW.) Meet: 10.45am for 11am Start Cost: £2 (£3 Guest) Extras: PLUS £6 cash donation on the day If you enjoy exploring Birmingham's rich and varied heritage you won't want to miss this opportunity to visit two unique “time capsules” of our City's past. Warstone Lane and Key Hill cemeteries in the heart of the Quarter date from the first half of the nineteenth century, both feature catacombs, and are Brum's equivalent of better known sites such as Highgate Cemetery in London. Join tour guide Steve Roden of Friends of Key Hill and Warstone Lane in a fascinating trip back into Victorian social history, as he explains how and why the cemeteries came to be, tells the story of famous people interred there (including Joseph Chamberlain, John Baskerville, and inventor of lawn tennis, Harry Gem), and reveals how they are being restored and preserved for future generations.

Weston Park Behind the Scenes & Afternoon Tea .. get inside this incredible estate! rd

Date: Sunday 3 September 2017 Place: Off A5 between Cannock & Telford (TF11 8LE) # Meet: 12.45pm for 1.00pm Afternoon Tea at 2.30pm Cost: £30.50 (£32.50 Guest) Incl: Tea, entry to House, Park & Gardens & Tour It doesn’t take long for the visitor to realise that Weston is a remarkable house set in stunning grounds. At every corner, echoes of different eras call out. This is a house with a rich history that has proved an important landmark in the area dating right back to the time the land was first mentioned in the Domesday Book. From the building of the present house in the 17th century and the landscaping of the gardens by ‘Capability’ Brown right through to hosting the G8 Summit of 1998, the story of Weston is beguiling and enthralling. Today we have an opportunity to tour the House to see what does on behind closed doors. What can be seen off the main public route, away from those grand rooms with their great works of art? Who were the staff and where did they live and work? How did the great house operate in Victorian times when the 3rd Earl of Bradford and his family had huge house parties? So many questions can be answered by this one tour. The day would then be followed by a delicious afternoon tea. On the menu are dainty finger sandwiches, warm homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, savoury and sweet tarts and a choice of freshly brewed teas.in the Victorian Orangery.

Note: This is not a Spice exclusive but a public event. However, we will have our own Spice table in the Orangery.

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our website, Weekly Bulletin by email and Facebook Page for updates.

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Singers Hill Synagogue Heritage Open Day .. discover a historic Synagogue & Masonic Lodge th

Date: Sunday 10 September 2017 Place: Blucher Street, Birmingham (by Mailbox) (B1 1HL) Meet: 10am prompt start (ends 1pm) Incl: Guided tour of two buildings, choir & Spice host Cost: FREE, but you must be pre booked (for security reasons). Donations welcome on day We have had several fascinating Spice visits to this historic synagogue and they thought we might enjoy coming as a group to their open day. It is a free morning which includes a guided tour and entertainment. Singers Hill is the synagogue of the Birmingham Hebrew Congregation, is the oldest synagogue in Birmingham. The present building was built in 1856 and is predated by an earlier building built in 1809. The Heritage Open Day provides a unique opportunity to visit both buildings.

After assembling at the Singers Hill Synagogue, we’ll be taken to visit the original synagogue, now the Masonic Hall of the Athol Lodge. Guides from Athol Lodge, will show us the wonderfully preserved features of the original synagogue and describe the fascinating history of the Lodge. We then return to the present building where a team of guides will point out the unique architectural features and stained glass of this historic building which was built in the Italianate style to the design of Herbert Yeoville Thomason, who went on to design Birmingham Council House, Museum and Art Gallery.

At 12:00, Kol Kinor Choir: Birmingham’s only Jewish mixed voice choir, will perform a concert of Jewish Choral Music.

Chillington Hall Heirs Tour/Tractor Expedition .. by special arrangement with the Giffard family Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Sunday 10 September 2017 Codsall near Wolverhampton (WV8 1RE) # 10.50am for 11am £17.50 (£19.50 Guest) Incl: Exclusive tour of Hall by the Giffards*, Capability Brown tour of grounds in covered tractor trailer and tea/coffee & biscuits Our Heirs Tours of our regions stately properties have proved very popular. Sir Richard Fitzherbert has shown us around Tissington Hall; Charles Berkeley has shared Berkeley Castle with us; Lord Cobham has welcomed us to Hagley Hall, James Hervey- Bathurst has shown us around Eastnor Castle and now we have a tour of Chillington Hall by the current (29th) generation of the Giffard family, whose family have lived there for 800 years! Chillington is a stunning stately property and is particularly famous for its grounds which were landscaped in 1770 by Capability Brown. Despite its formal facade Chillington is also an intimate, family home and John & Crescent Giffard look forward to sharing it with us.

Our Special Visit: We have arranged two tours in one. First we will be shown around of the Hall itself (approx. 45 mins).

After this, we will be seated in a special covered trailer which is towed by tractor (for around 1 hour) around the extensive grounds. This is a very civilised way we to admire the work of Capability Brown and celebrate his 300th anniversary year!

Mary Ashford Mystery - One Morning in May .. an entertaining & fascinating story Date: Thursday 14th September 2017 Place: Royal Hotel, High St, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands (B72 1UD) Meet: 7.15pm for 7.30pm Cost: £10 (£12 Guest) Extra: Bar drinks if required Mary Ashford died in mysterious circumstances 200 years ago in a country lane in Sutton Coldfield yet her legacy continues. Another local girl, Barbara Forrest, died exactly on the same date, 27th May, 157 years later in 1974. Due to the bizarre and tragic circumstances surrounding the Ashford case the law of the land was changed and remained changed until recently with the tragic case of Stephen Lawrence in London 1993. The whole story is fascinating, intriguing and gives a fascinating insight into what life was like in England (and Sutton Coldfield/ Erdington in particular) 200 years ago.

Patrick Hayes will tell us the story. He is an Erdington based author and award winning playwright who has painstakingly researched and wrritten a book on the subject entitled 'One Morning in May'. This evening he will tell us this intriguing story that put Sutton Coldfield and The Village of Erdington in the national headlines. ______________________________

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Sport & Fitness Try a new sport or rediscover an old one! It’s a great way to get fit, make friends and socialize. With Spice, it’s all just for fun. All ages & abilities take part and no skill is expected

Run, Jog or Walk in the Park .. some easy excercise in the evening!

Dates: Every Tuesday Evening (Some dates may have a meal option after – check online) Place: Car Park of Toby Carvery, Near Town Gate, Sutton Park (B74 2YT) Meet: 7pm Start (back in pub by 8.30pm) Cost: Free, but please book. A tin is shaken for our Fun Run Charity, St Mary’s Hospice An opportunity to get fit and active by enjoying an easy run, jog or fast walk with us in the evening. It’s very sociable and we will set off on a route of around 3 miles before returning to the pub. So that everyone can go at their own pace, These evenings are appropriate to anyone who wants to increase their fitness in a sociable group. As a minimum, you should be capable of a brisk walk (walking is what almost all of us do!). But whatever your pace you are very welcome.

Badminton for Fun .. FREE sessions in Coventry, Wolves & Birmingham Date: Every Wednesday Place: ● Coventry: Alan Higgs Centre, Allard Way, Coventry CV3 1HW ● Wolverhampton: Aldersley Leisure Village, Aldersley Rd, WV6 9NW ● Birmingham: Billesley Indoor Tennis Ctr, Wheelers Lane, Billesley B13 0ST All these sessions are FREE to Spice members Meet: 1 hour session at each venue: 8.00pm to 9.00pm Cost: All sessions are FREE but must be pre booked and are for members only We have a number of regional badminton venues. At each one, you’ll find a fun evening, with nothing taken too seriously and the chance to play with a whole new bunch of players. You just need a basic grasp of the game to play.

Badminton – Sutton Coldfield .. our NEW weekly venue for 2017 Date: Every Wednesday Place: Wyndley Leisure Centre, Clifton Road, Sutton Coldfield (B73 6EN) Meet: 80 minute session 6.20pm to 7.40pm Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) A fun evening, with nothing taken too seriously and the chance to play with a whole new bunch of players. You just need a basic grasp of the game to play. Bring a racket if you have one but a few are available to hire. There’s easy free parking.

Rounders for Free in Sutton Park .. get some sociable sporting fun in the evening! nd

Date: Tuesday 22 August 2017 Place: Meet in car park of Toby Carvery, Sutton Park (B74 2YT) Meet: 7pm (back in pub by 8.30pm) Incl: Spice Coordinator, bats, bases, balls - but it’s a fun, DIY event with no tuition/ref Spice Rounders nights are always fun. They are all about getting out in the light nights and acting like kids again!

Everyone can have fun playing, even if you don't know how to hold a bat! Richard will be there with all the kit, but there is no coaching or refereeing – just a group of Spice members having fun. After, we’ll retire to the bar of the Toby Carvery.

Hoola Hooping .. have fun with a hoola workout!

Date: Saturday 23rd September 2017 Place: Walker Memorial Hall Ampton Road Edgbaston (B12 9QH) Meet: 10.45am for 11am - 12.00 noon session Cost: £8 (£10 Guest) includes all equipment & instruction Ever fancied trying Hoola Hooping properly – and learning how to have fun and tone up at the same time? Well Spice men & women - here’s your chance! We've arranged a beginner’s class where you can improve your self-confidence, tone your body and get sociable while learning everything you need to know about this fantastic new fitness craze. ______________________________ 40

Theatre, Comedy & Concerts We have good relations with all the venues in our region, and try to secure good seats for a wide range of shows. Often we are holding tickets for a very limited period, and with the most popular shows, tickets are finalised months in advance of the performance. We post out tickets around a week before the event, including a meet up point (generally the bar!).

Important: as we have to purchase your ticket well in advance, these types of event are non refundable unless we can resell your seat to someone else. Sorry.

Social Note: By it’s very nature, (you sit quietly in the dark!) these types of event are not particularly sociable.

There will be a volunteer coordinator who’ll do their best to “meet & greet” and to get people together in the interval. However, please don’t book these events for a social evening as you may be disappointed.

Cinema & Meal Nights .. informal get togethers for film lovers Date: Sundays: ● 16 July ● 20th August ● 21st May ● 18th June 2017 Place: Cineworld, Broad Street (corner of Broad St & Bishopsgate St) (B15 1DA) Meet: Meet Sean 5.50pm in foyer or at optional meal venue prior (see online) Extra: No cost to book, but you buy your film ticket & meal on the night.

Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com th

The Magic of Motown at Conkers .. reach Out for The Magic of Motown th

Date: Saturday 29 July 2017 Place: Conkers Waterside, Derbyshire (DE12 6GA) # Meet: 7.15pm for show starting at 8pm Cost: £24 (£26 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Hamish Stuart at the Jam House .. see the Average White Band star live! rd

Date: Thursday 3 August 2017 Place: Jam House, St. Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Show starts 8.30pm but arrive any time after 6pm Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) Special discounted rate for members Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Outdoor Cinema: Mamma Mia .. a summer's night at Calke Abbey rd

Date: Thursday 3 August 2017 Place: Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derbyshire (DE73 7LE) # Meet: 7:30pm Cost: £14.50 (£16.50 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Supersonic 70's Night at Conkers .. discover or relive the music! th

Date: Saturday 5 August 2017 Place: Conkers Waterside, Derbyshire (DE12 6GA) # Meet: 7.15pm for show starting at 8pm Cost: £20.50 (£22.50 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com Cancellation Terms – Ticketed Events Please remember when booking any ticketed events in this section, that refunds on cancellations can only be offered if we resell your place. Our normal terms do not apply.

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The Secret Garden .. a timeless and enchanting story th

Date: Saturday 12 August 2017 Place: Blue Orange Theatre, 118 Gt Hampton St, Birmingham (B18 6AD) Meet: 5.30pm (to collect tickets from coordinator) for 6pm show Cost: £11 (£13 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Dr Feelgood Live at the Jam House .. see them live at this intimate venue th

Date: Thursday 17 August 2017 Place: Jam House, St.Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Show starts 9pm but arrive any time after 6pm Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) Special discounted rate for members Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Bradgate Proms in the Park 2017 .. how English is that! th

Date: Saturday 19 August 2017 Place: Bradgate Park, Leicester (LE6 0HE) # Meet: 5:15pm for 5:30pm Cost: £23 (£25 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

The 3 Degrees at the Jam House .. see them live at this intimate venue Date: Thursday 24th August 2017 Place: Jam House, St.Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Arrive from 6pm. Entertainment starts 8.30pm Cost: £5 (£10 Guest) Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Total 80's Live Music Night .. Frankie Says Relax! nd

Date: Saturday 2 September 2017 Place: Conkers Waterside, Derbyshire (DE12 6GA) # Meet: 7.15pm for show starting at 8pm Cost: £20 (£22 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Tom Browne at the Jam House .. funkin for Jamaica th

Date: Thursday 7 September 2017 Place: Jam House, St.Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Arrive from 6pm. Entertainment starts 9pm Cost: £5 (£10 Guest) Special discounted rate for members Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Cancellation Terms – Ticketed Events Please remember when booking any ticketed events in this section, that refunds on cancellations can only be offered if we resell your place. Our normal terms do not apply.

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The Great Gatsby .. glitz, glamour and the high life! th

Date: Saturday 9 September 2017 Place: Crescent Theatre, Birmingham (B1 2JA) Meet: 7pm in bar to collect tickets for 7.30pm Cost: £16 (£18 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Hobson's Choice .. enjoy this classic romantic comedy! th

Date: Tuesday 12 September 2017 Place: Highbury Theatre, Sutton Coldfield (B73 5HD) Meet: 7pm to collect tickets for 7.30pm Cost: £12 (£14 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Jayne Eyre .. straight from the National Theatre th

Date: Saturday 16 September 2017 Place: Repertory Theatre, Broad Street, Birmingham (B1 2EP) # Meet: 6.30pm for 7.00pm - 10.00pm Cost: £29 (£31 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Tango Moderno - A Tango For Today .. an irresistible hot new stage spectacular Date: Thursday 21st September 2017 Place: Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham (B5 4DS) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm curtain up Cost: £42 (£45 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Dirty Dancing Live Music Night at Conkers .. get down & dirty at Conkers! nd

Date: Friday 22 September 2017 Place: Conkers Waterside, Derbyshire (DE12 6GA) # Meet: 7.15pm for 7.30pm Cost: £18.50 (£19.50 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Ocean Film Festival World Tour .. the world's most amazing ocean films th

Date: Saturday 30 September 2017 Place: Crescent Theatre, Birmingham (B1 2JA) Meet: 7pm in bar to collect tickets for 7.30pm - 10.30pm Cost: £15.50 (£17.50 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Cancellation Terms – Ticketed Events Please remember when booking any ticketed events in this section, that refunds on cancellations can only be offered if we resell your place. Our normal terms do not apply.

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Aladdin - Birmingham Royal Ballet .. a glittering production! rd

Date: Tuesday 3 October 2017 Place: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street (B5 4TB) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm Cost: £34 (£36 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Spamalot .. Monty Python's multi award winning musical comedy Date: Thursday 5th October 2017 Place: Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham (B5 4DS) Meet: 7pm (to collect tickets from coordinator) for 7.30pm show Cost: £37.50 (£39.50 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Entertaining Mr Sloane .. elegant, alarming and hilarious th

Date: Saturday 7 October 2017 Place: Blue Orange Theatre, 118 Gt Hampton St, Birmingham (B18 6AD) Meet: 7.15pm (to collect tickets from coordinator) for 7.45pm show Cost: £11 (£13 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Mike Sanchez at the Jam House .. a Rhythm & Blues and Rock 'n' Roll legend Date: Thursday 12th October 2017 Place: Jam House, St. Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Arrive from 6pm. Entertainment starts 9.30pm Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) Special discounted rate for members Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Mad Jocks & Englishmen .. a great night out th

Date: Friday 13 October 2017 Place: Bromsgrove Sporting Football Club, Bromsgrove (B61 0DR) Meet: 8.15pm for 8.30pm performance Cost: £10.50 (Members & Guests) includes all booking fees & Spice Host Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

An Evening with Sir Michael Parkinson .. an intimate, entertaining & informative evening th

Date: Friday 13 October 2017 Place: Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry (CV4 7AL) Meet: 7.15pm (to collect tickets from coordinator) for 7.30pm show Cost: £30 (£32 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Cancellation Terms – Ticketed Events Please remember when booking any ticketed events in this section, that refunds on cancellations can only be offered if we resell your place. Our normal terms do not apply.

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The Trouble with Old Lovers .. enjoy this bitter-sweet comedy! th

Date: Tuesday 17 October 2017 Place: Highbury Theatre, Sutton Coldfield (B73 5HD) Meet: 7pm to collect tickets for 7.30pm Cost: £12 (£14 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

UB40 Tribute Night at the Jam House .. see Johnny2Bad at this intimate venue th

Date: Thursday 19 October 2017 Place: Jam House, St.Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Arrive from 6pm. Entertainment starts 9.30pm Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) Special discounted rate for members Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Acosta Danza .. one of the world's foremost ballet stars th

Date: Friday 20 October 2017 Place: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street # (B5 4TB) Meet: 7pm (to collect tickets from coordinator) for 7.30pm show Cost: £32 (£35 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Comedy at the Chateau - Sitcom Special .. Ricky Tomlinson, Sherrie Hewson & John Challis!

Date: Friday 27th October 2017 Place: Regent Centre, Chateau Impney, Droitwich (WR9 0BN) # Meet: 7.15pm Cost: £29 (£31 Guest) inc welcome drink, booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Film Concert - Pyscho .. with live score by Bath Philharmonia th

Date: Sunday 29 October 2017 Place: Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry (CV4 7AL) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm Cost: £38 (£40 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Nina Conti - In Your Face ..‘Gut-Bustingly Funny’ st

Date: Tuesday 31 October 2017 Place: Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry (CV4 7AL) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm Cost: £23 (£25 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Cancellation Terms – Ticketed Events Please remember when booking any ticketed events in this section, that refunds on cancellations can only be offered if we resell your place. Our normal terms do not apply.

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Shakatak at the Jam House .. see them live at this intimate venue Date: Thursday 2nd November 2017 Place: Jam House, St.Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Programme from 9pm but arrive any time Cost: £5 (£10 Guest) Special discounted rate for members Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Charles Dickens' Ghost Stories .. chilling tales from the master! rd

Date: Friday 3 November 2017 Place: Blue Orange Theatre, 118 Gt Hampton St, Birmingham (B18 6AD) Meet: 7.15pm (to collect tickets from coordinator) for 7.45pm show Cost: £11 (£13 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Katherine Ryan's Glitter Room .. brand new stand-up show th

Date: Friday 10 November 2017 Place: Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry (CV4 7AL) # Meet: 7.30pm for 8.00pm Cost: £22.50 (£24.50 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Sunset Boulevard .. one of the all-time great musicals th

Date: Tuesday 14 November 2017 Place: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street (B5 4TB) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm Cost: £43 (£45 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys .. see them live at this intimate venue rd

Date: Thursday 23 November 2017 Place: Jam House, St.Pauls Square, Birmingham (B3 1QU) Meet: Arrive from 6pm. Entertainment starts 9.30pm Cost: £3 (£5 Guest) Special discounted rate for members Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Alison Moyet .. rediscover her wonderful voice th

Date: Friday 24 November 2017 Place: Butterworth Hall, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry (CV4 7AL) # Meet: Doors open 7.30pm - Starting time TBC Cost: £38 (£40 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Cancellation Terms – Ticketed Events Please remember when booking any ticketed events in this section, that refunds on cancellations can only be offered if we resell your place. Our normal terms do not apply.

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A Christmas Wassail .. a show with plenty of Christmas spirit th

Date: Sunday 17 December 2017 Place: Crescent Theatre, Birmingham (B1 2JA) Meet: 7pm in bar to collect tickets for 7.30pm Cost: £23 (£25 Guest) Includes: Mulled Wine and a mince pie & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Jersey Boys .. Oh What A Night! th

Date: Thursday 4 January 2018 Place: Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham (B5 4DS) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm Cost: £50 (£52 Guest) includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Cinderella the Panto ..the perfect pantomime experience th

Date: Wednesday 10 January 2018 Place: Birmingham Hippodrome (B5 4TB) # Meet: 6.45pm for 7.15pm Cost: £31.50 Member, £33.50 Guest includes all booking fees & Spice Host Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Bill Bailey: Larks in Transit .. silliness on a grand scale Date: Monday 29th January 2018 Place: Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry (CV4 7AL) # Meet: 7.30pm for 8pm Cost: £29.50 Member, £32.50 Guest includes all booking fees & Spice Host Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Matthew Bournes Cinderella .. a dazzling spectacle th

Date: Thursday 8 February 2018 Place: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street (B5 4TB) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm Cost: £45 Member, £47 Guest includes all booking fees & Spice Coordinator Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

David Baddiel - My Family .. dementia & infidelity - a moving yet hilarious show!

Date: Wednesday 28th February 2018 Place: Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham (B5 4DS) # Meet: 7.00pm for 7.30pm Cost: £32 Member, £35 Guest (Deposit £10) includes all booking fees & host Please find details of this and similar events on our website www.spicebham.com

Please also find 2018 shows: War Horse, Matilda and Wicked on our website ___________________________________________________________

Cancellation Terms – Ticketed Events Please remember when booking any ticketed events in this section, that refunds on cancellations can only be offered if we resell your place. Our normal terms do not apply.

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Workshops & Talks Whether it’s self development, craft, music, art or practical skills you’re after, we have a diverse range of opportunities to learn something new!

Drumming for Beginners Stg1 & 2 .. Spice help you realise another childhood ambition Dates: Sundays: Absolute Beginners 17th Sept or Stage 2* 22nd Oct 2017 Place: Drum School, Lawley Middleway, Birmingham (B4 7XX) – directions online Meet: 4pm to 6pm session Cost: £19 (£21 Guest) *The stage 2 is aimed at those who have already done the first session or already have some basic experience.

Do you ever find yourself bashing your table top with a couple of pencils as your favourite tune blasts out of your radio?

Well this is your chance to have a go in a small friendly group led by one of the Midland’s most experienced instructors.

Your instructor will guide you through the workings of the kit, how to sit at a drum kit and hold the sticks for ease of playing and then the fun begins as you learn to play your first rock beat! This session is a fun, hands on introduction.

Blacksmithing Evenings Stg1 & 2 .. learn a new skill with friends Mondays: ● Stage 1: 16th October 2017 ● Stage 2: 24th July 2017 Lichfield (WS13 7SG) – read directions online (note different venue this year) Choose 6.30pm or 8.30pm Slot £12 (£14 guests) PAID AS £2 (£4) deposit to Spice to book PLUS balance of £10 to supplier on the day. Incl: equipment & materials. Your masterpiece to take home This is a simple, fun evening with a Blacksmith around his forge where he manufactures a range of beautiful objects such as iron gates, decorative ironwork and even the candlesticks for Lichfield Cathedral! Each small group of Spice members will be issued with safety equipment including leather aprons before a full safety briefing. We will then be taught how to work hot metal with hammer and tongs on the anvil. Each session lasts a couple of hours. Time Slots: We can only take 6 at the forge at a time (you can’t have too many irons in the fire as they say!), so have 2 timeslots to choose from.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Zing! The Choir of Spice West Midlands .. incorporating The Matthew Jones Singers Every Wednesday from 27th September to 20th December 2017 The Parish Centre, St Mary's RC Church, Glebe Street, Walsall (WS1 3NF) 7.30 - 9.45pm each Wednesday from 27 Sept to 20 Dec (incl. induction) £150 (£180 Guest) Incl: 12 x 2 hour sessions at £12.50 (£15 Guests) paid in 2 halves of £75 (£90 Guest) upon booking and the balance at the 6 week point.

Cost includes Musical Director/ Vocal Coach and accompanist and venue hire Following the success of Choir Camp, we’re delighted to be teaming up with Matthew Jones again, to launch our very own choir: Zing! The self-proclaimed Patron Saint of the Tone-deaf, Matthew is a passionate believer that anybody can learn to sing and has trained members to play such venues as The Royal Albert Hall and record with the likes of Boy George to critical acclaim. Whether he’s leading the Queen’s grocers at Fortnum & Mason in song or those serving time at her pleasure, Jones’s formidable yet witty style never fails to engage! With a little help from The Matthew Jones Singers, we’ll be singing everything from Mozart to Metallica and working towards an inaugural concert at Christmas. Read more online.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Simple Sewing Workshop with Celebratory Cake! .. a fun evening learning the basics of needlework Mondays: 14th August, 11 September or 9th October 2017 Living in Loveliness, St John's Hall, Hill St, Essington (WV11 2BX) 6.30pm to 9.30pm (Note, if numbers are low we share with public) £30 (£32 Guest) paid as £5 (£7 Guest) deposit to Spice to book plus £25 paid direct to supplier on the day. Includes: Instruction, equipment, tea & cake!

A perfect introduction for beginners with the lovely Kerrie Padmore in her “grannies attic” style workshop. We’ll learn such skills as: threading a sewing machine; choosing stitches; stitch lengths & understanding tension; sewing seams & the concept of a seam allowance; sewing in a straight line & turning corners. We’ll take away a plush padded pin cushion and a string of bunting to start our sewing collection. Most importantly, we celebrate our achievements with home made cake!

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Stone Carving for Beginners .. create your own decorative stone sculpture to take away Date: Sunday 17th September 2017 Place: Derbyshire Eco-Centre, near Wirksworth (DE4 4LS) # Meet: 9.30am to 4pm Cost: £55 (£59 Guest) Incl: all tools, stone, references & tuition Explore your creative development through the medium of stone. Join Richard, a stone carver with over 35yrs experience, who will guide you through skills and techniques required to produce your own relief carving. A wonderful opportunity to create work that is based on architectural church carvings or abstract sculptural and naturalistic forms. Advice and guidance is provided throughout, in both the design and with the tool skills needed to bring your design to life. The workshop is open to all, absolute beginners and those with experience in similar crafts.

Ukulele for Fun .. have fun learning this popular instrument! th

Date: Sunday 15 October 2017 Place: Alrewas Village Hall, Wellfield Road, Alrewas, Staffs (DE13 7HB) Meet: 2pm to 4pm Cost: £18 (£20 Guest) includes ukuleles & instruction Ukelele playing is easy when you know how and very trendy at the moment due to the cult popularity of The Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain! It is also an instrument that is cheap, simple and a lot more portable than a guitar. So why not have some fun discovering what it’s all about with a fun group of Spice friends? Today we’ll have a go at playing the ukulele in an entirely unintimidating atmosphere. The session will start by explaining how to hold and strum the ukulele and then working on some simple chords. We can then play some tunes together. You don't need to be musical in any way or to be able to read music as you will be shown how it is done. A fun event that will make everyone smile.

Breadmaking Workshop at Hindleys .. learn from Britain's award winning TV bakers Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Tuesday 12 September 2017 10 Tamworth Street, Lichfield (WS13 6JJ) – Directions online 6.45pm for 7pm start (Ends around 10pm) £55 (£59 Guest) Includes: simple buffet food on arrival, 3 hours hands on practical with demonstrations from Duncan Hindley, All ingredients & equipment including aprons & hats. Your delicious bread creations to take away. Full instruction & recipe cards. Exclusive out of hours group arrangements for Spice Hindley’s Bakery is quite an institution and has been in the centre of historic Lichfield since 1893! Some of you may have seen them on TV winning the title of ‘Best Bakery in the West Midlands’ (Britain's Best Bakery - ITV). So we think we’ve found the very best people to teach us how to bake perfect bread! We’ll be taught by Duncan Hindley himself, who is the 4th generation of Bakers. We’ll learn basic bread making skills within an informal and friendly environment. The course lasts 3 hours and is suitable for beginners. They supply ingredients, equipment, apron, hat, refreshments (tea/coffee) as well as a small buffet on arrival – so don’t worry if you’re coming straight from work.

The best bit! Of course you take home 2 bags of your own bread, extra yeast, flour and instruction sheet!

Play with Clay Using a Potters Wheel! .. create your own masterpiece in this amazing setting!

Date: Sundays: 3rd September or 1st October 2017 Place: Red House Cone, Wordsley, Stourbridge (DY8 4AZ) Meet: 1.45pm for 2.00pm - 4.00pm Cost: £22 (£25 Guest) Incl: All tools & clay, 1 to 1 tuition on potter's wheel & tea/ coffee During our 2 hr session Sarah will demonstrate how to build a coil pot first, then leave us to get started whilst she works with individual members on a 1-1 on the potter's wheel! You can make practically anything using this simple technique, which is great, because you never get the same look twice! This class is made even more enjoyable simply by the setting.

Saz’s ceramic studio is well equipped, and has an inspiring, creative atmosphere and of course is based at the wonderful Red House Glass Cone. Take a walk around the beautiful historic building and visit numerous other craft studios on site.

A Spice Newsletter is just a Snapshot in Time We’re busy booking new events all the time so please check our website, Weekly Bulletin by email and Facebook Page for updates.

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Beginners Photography Course .. friendly,informative & good fun th

Date: Sunday 15 October 2017 Place: Tworld, Weeford Workshops, Hungry Lane, Weeford, Lichfield (WS14 0PR) Meet: 9.45am for 10am - 2.00pm Cost: £39 (£45 Guest) Incl: 4 hours training, tea/coffee & biscuits Have you ever wanted to take better photographs on holidays or of your family? No matter what DSLR, Compact or bridge camera you have, get the most from it with help from an expert. This beginner’s photography course is led by professional photographer Warren Garrett, the workshop is split into a theory session first followed by a practical session to try out the knowledge that you have learnt. During the session you will be taught: The technicalities of different camera types, shooting the RAW format. Exposure - shutter speeds, apertures and ISO, Camera metering modes, Correcting for incorrect exposure, White balance, Working with Light, Composition and more. After coffee we will enjoy a practical session in the locality or studio if weather is poor. You will need to bring your own cameras with batteries fully charged.

Heart Book Fold Workshop ... Join us to make a beautifully folded heart book Date: Saturday 5th August 2017 Place: Living in Loveliness, St John's Hall, Hill St, Essington (WV11 2BX) Meet: 12,15 pm for 12:30-2:30pm.(2 hour workshop) Cost: £17 (£19 Guest) paid as £5 (£7 Guest) deposit plus £12 paid on the day Incl: All materials are included in this workshop and unlimited tea and coffee You will be provided with a pattern and all materials to make this lovely book sculpture. You may not finish this project during the workshop but you will be given enough instruction to complete at your leisure. No experience needed.

Decopatch Craft Evening .. introduction to this fun craft th

Date: Tuesday 8 August 2017 Place: Mitchells Craft Centre, Sutton Coldfield (B75 6NA) Meet: 6.45pm till 8.45pm (2 hour session) Cost: £16 (£17.50 Guest) Incl: a wooden tray, materials & exclusive booking of the venue out of hours Our friends at Café Ceramica have invited us to a decopatch workshop exclusive to Spice, this will include a wooden tray (16cm x 28.5cm), the paper and glue and instruction. As ever, we get step by step instruction. The instructor will explain the techniques. It is all very fun and sociable, with teas/ coffees on sale (or you can bring a bottle of wine if you prefer) as everyone socialises while working! It really doesn’t matter if you are not artistic – in fact this adds to the sense of fun! By 9.00pm we should all be finished and be ready to go to the pub if you wish. Read more about Decopatch online.

Edit your Wardrobe .. an interactive, fun & informative workshop th

Date: Saturday 12 August 2017 Place: Riverside House, 21 Alcester Rd, Moseley, Birmingham (B13 8AR) Meet: 2pm - 5pm Cost: £40 (£42 Guest) paid as £10 (£12 Guest) deposit plus £30 paid on the day Incl: Information packs to take away & refreshments Have you got a wardrobe bursting at the seams with clothes you're not sure you'll ever wear again, or perhaps opening your wardrobe doors fills you with dread as it's so disorganised in there? It's easier to just stick to your favourites that are right there on hand. But these are starting to look a little tired and you know that you've got great pieces in your wardrobe you feel you need some help getting organised, working out whether you really need another pair of trousers, or top or jumper.... But you don't know how to get started - but expert help is at hand!

Moseley-based Image Consultant, Nicky Jones has a real heart for working with women just like you and wants you to feel amazing about who you are. She really enjoys helping clients sort out their wardrobes, and will use her expert knowledge and skills to enable you to do the same. Nicky has pulled together everything she knows about this topic into an interactive fun and informative workshop for you to learn her tips to enable you to edit your own wardrobe. This session is really useful for anyone wanting to be empowered in clearing out their wardrobes but works particularly well if you have already attended one of Nicky's Style workshops and/or have had your colours analysed. Read full itinerary on our website.

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Fungi Foray in Sutton Park .. come and discover a wealth of fungi life th

Date: Saturday 7 October 2017 Place: Streetly Gate, Thornhill Road, Sutton Coldfield (B74 3EW) Meet: 11.15am - 11.30am - 1.30pm Cost: £9 Member, £11 Guest Includes: Specialist guide Fungi are fascinating and a vital part of our fragile ecosystem. Their preservation is vitally important, particularly as some rare species have recently provided vital breakthroughs in medicine. At today’s forage we will have experts on hand to advise on what we find and are sure to learn a lot about these fascinating and diverse organisms. It’s a lot of foraging fun!

Acting for Beginners Workshop .. the first stage on the way to your Oscar! nd

Date: Saturday 2 September 2017 Place: Blue Orange Theatre, 118 Gt Hampton St, Birmingham (B18 6AD) Meet: 11.00am Finish at 3pm Cost: £25 (£29 Guest) If you’ve ever wanted to try Acting, our one-day Workshop is the perfect place to start! The Introduction to Acting Workshop offers a thorough, practical introduction to acting in an enjoyable and supportive environment, providing the opportunity to develop new acting skills, meet and work with like minded people, and more importantly, have fun!

The workshop will be led by an expert facilitator with a vast amount of experience with in the industry.If you haven’t been on stage since school or have always held a secret desire, this course is the perfect place for you to give acting a whirl.

Jewellery Making with Beads .. create unique earrings, bracelets & necklaces to take away!

Date: Saturday 9th September 2017 Place: Hylton Street, Jewellery Quarter (B18 6HN) – directions on website Meet: 10.30am - 1.30pm Cost: £29 (£32 Guest) Incl: 2½ hours tuition, materials & light refreshments Another special Spice opportunity to get creative with an expert! You may want to make unique presents, but then again, you might decide to keep them for yourself!

This is a great training studio with one of the most enthusiastic instructors (Estelle) we’ve ever discovered! We get all the equipment we need (including thousands of beads!) plus expert tuition and style advice. We will have time to create 2 items to take home from a selection of necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Our special price includes 3 hours tuition, materials and light refreshments. All you need to bring is your enthusiasm and willingness to let your creativity run riot!

We have max 8 places, so if you want to try something creative, therapeutic and fun… get your booking in quick!

Mosaic Making with Vintage China & Glass .. create your own masterpiece in this amazing setting!

Date: Sunday 10th September 2017 Place: Red House Cone, Wordsley, Stourbridge (DY8 4AZ) Meet: 9.45am for 10.00am till 1.00pm Cost: £42 (£45 Guest) Incl: all materials, instruction & your mosaic to treasure Join us in this historic location for a fantastic opportunity to have a go at creating your own mosaic bird or heart. We will make a beautiful bird hanger/heart using vintage crockery pieces and glass with various effects. Sarah will demonstrate how to safely use the tools and equipment, to cut and shape the crockery and glass. Then you can pick the colours and design the hanger. Sarah will talk you through the mosaicing process from designing, arranging, gluing and grouting. The course is held at Glass Quarter Designs, a glass studio on the site of the Red House Glass Cone, near Stourbridge in the heart of the glass quarter. The Red House Glass Cone is set on the canal side, and there are several craft studios to explore. You can spend some time looking around the site and glass blowing demonstrations are held on W’end afternoons. There is also a coffee shop on site but refreshments will be provided.

What’s is a “Guest”?

Some events have a separate price that applies if you want to bring a “guest” along. The “guest” option is there for members to use to introduce new people to the group and for friends/ family for whom membership is not practical (eg visiting from another area). The Guest arrangements are offered at our discretion and cannot be used to avoid membership (eg by lapsed members). A “guest” must come along to the event with you (unless specifically agreed otherwise) and you are responsible for their good conduct. A “Guest” may accompany you at up to 3 events – after which we consider it fair to expect them to join themselves.

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Balloon Modelling for Fun .. learn an entertaining trick Date: Thursday 21st September 2017 Place: Spice Office Burnett Road Streetly (B74 3EL) Meet: 7.30pm to approx 9.30pm Cost: £10 (£12 Guest) Incl: equipment & instruction, tea/coffee & cake/ biscuits Balloon Modelling is a fun challenge that anyone can pick up and also provides you with a very useful trick to have up your sleeve if you find yourself needing to entertain children (or adults!) or perhaps raise money for charity.

Our instructor “Mr Tweedle” (he also answers to “Andy”) is a professional children’s entertainer and all-round fun guy.

He will take us through the stages of making some popular balloon models that you can perfect at home until you can do them with your eyes closed! Allow around 2 hours. There will also be drinks and some suitably childish cake/ biscuits to enjoy to give us a little of that “children’s party ambiance” – so what’s not to like!

Creating with Clay - Let's make a Teddy Bear! .. you’ll be amazed what you can create when you know how!

Thursday 14th September 2017 Spice Office, Ryknild House, Burnett Road, Streetly (B74 3EL) 7pm to 9.30pm £13 (£15 Guest) paid as £3 (£5 Guest) deposit to Spice to book plus £10 cash direct To supplier on the day for expenses. Includes: All equipment, tea/coffee & cake to eat!

Do you want to make a cute gift? Then why not book onto this fun evening workshop with keen artist Sue Kelland using lightweight clay that air dries in just 24 hours! She will show you how to make the cutest of teddy bears, bring along a small jam jar so we can all make a lovely gift for your valentine, your child or just your best friend!

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

How to Make Friends & Influence People .. discover the secrets of a happy & productive life th

Date: Sunday 24 September 2017 Place: Lea Marston Hotel, just off A4097 nr M42 (B76 0BY) Meet: 10.30am - 4.30pm Cost: £49 (£55 Guest) including refreshments & light sandwich lunch An exciting day of discovery and fun, whilst improving your communication skills ten-fold.

This workshop with Richard Bisiker is a practical day with lots of group exercises so you’ll get to meet And learn about other Spicers. It is relaxed with lots of discussions and fun exercises. This is not a convenient way to categorise people, it is a discovery of how real people like you and me value what is around us, and what motivates us.

Knowing this, or even an educated insight gives you the ability to choose the best response to get the result you want.

We will cover: ● How to get out of sticky confrontation situations & turn it into collaboration; ● Understanding what motivates you and others at work, leisure, & home; ● An in-depth personality questionnaire ● How to get people to say “Yes” to your ideas; ● How to deal with difficult personalities ● Discover your own personality strengths and weaknesses & then how to develop them ● How to communicate with people who just don’t seem to be on your wave length

Make a Chain Maille Necklace for Christmas .. create a unique necklace to take away th

Date: Saturday 25 November 2017 Place: Hylton Street, Jewellery Quarter (B18 6HN) – directions online Meet: 10.15am for 10.30am - 12.30pm Cost: £29 (£32 Guest) Incl: 2 hours tuition, materials and light refreshments.

Another special Spice opportunity to get creative with an expert! You may want to make unique presents, but then again, you might decide to keep them for yourself! This is a great training studio with one of the most enthusiastic instructors (Estelle) that we have ever discovered! We will get all the equipment we need, plus expert tuition and style advice. You will have time to create, a chain maille necklace for Christmas, featuring decorative silver balls. Our special price includes 2 hours tuition, materials and light refreshments. All you need to bring is your enthusiasm and willingness to let your creativity run riot! We’ve just 8 places, so if you want to try something creative, therapeutic and fun… get booking quick! ______________________________

Booking a Workshop for Business?

Just let us know and we’ll send you a VAT receipt so you can claim it back

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Selected Weekends & Holidays These pages contain a selection of weekends & trips offered to our members.

There are very many more weekends away of all different types on our website.

Spice UK overseas trips are listed separately in the colour section of this Newsletter.

Cannes by Eurostar French Riviera Break .. with excursions to Monaco & Mougins Friday 6 - Monday 9th April 2018 Montaigne Hotel & Spa # Around 6.30am (TBC) London St Pancras (N1C 4QP) £479 (Add £140 if you prefer single room otherwise we will link shares).

Return travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Marseilles St Charles; 3 nights in a well located 4 star Spa Hotel; Day trip to Monaco and half day trip to Mougins. Transfers in France Extras: Meals other than breakfasts. You must have travel insurance Precis: We’re taking advantage of the direct Eurostar service from London to Marseilles so that we can cross Europe to the cosmopolitan splendour of The French Riviera without having to board a plane! It’s one of Europe’s great train journeys. A very civilized and enjoyable way to travel and a wonderful way to see France from top to tail in just 7 hours!

We are staying in the glamourous resort of Cannes, where we can promenade amongst the rich, famous and stylish and enjoy the spectacular seafront. We have also included a day trip to Monaco/ Monte Carlo, favoured retreat of the superrich and a half day excursion to the idyllic hill top town of Mougins, home to Picasso and many other artists and celebs.

Our Hotel: Around 7 minutes walk from the beach, Hotel Montaigne & Spa is located in the centre of Cannes, just a 5 minute walk from La Croisette. We have free access to the Spa, rooms with flat-screen HD TV and Wi-Fi. Eating & Drinking: A buffet breakfast is included to start the day, but other meals are not. We can find café’s/ bars for lunches as we explore and there is no shortage of places to eat out in the evening. It is usual for us to split into smaller groups for eating out in the evening and then to meet up in the many bars.

Exploring Together: It is very much up to you how you wish to spend the time between our excursions. However, the coordinator will always ensure there is a “group option” for those who wish to stay together. You can opt in and out of this as you wish, but there should never be any need to be alone unless you wish to be. The coordinator is not a “tour guide” but will have some ideas of places to see and possible places to dine to suit all budgets.

The tour operator we are using is Success Tours. We act as their agents and their terms and conditions apply.

Please read the detailed information on our website including train schedules etc Date: Place: Meet: Cost: Incl:

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Ski Val D'Isere - Spice West Mid Ski Trip 2018 .. discover this awesome ski area Saturday 20 - Saturday 27th January 2018 Val D'Isere, France # Birmingham Airport £899 (Deposit £150) Incl: Flights, transfers, chalet hotel accom, 7 breakfasts, 6 evening meals, wine with dinner, afternoon tea and coffee with a selection of cakes, private spa facilities, Spice host Extra: Holiday Insurance. Lunches & 1 evening meal. Ski Requirements (Last seasons prices as a guide) - Whole Area Lift Pass - £250; Ski hire from £88; Ski Boot hire from £39; Ski/Snowboard Tuition from - £212 for 6 half days if needed; Ski Carriage £35 per skis/board It’s been a few years since Spice West Mids have skied in France and even longer since we skied the incredible Espace Killy so we’ve found a great way to return by booking this wonderful chalet just for us! This small chalet includes a spa area to unwind in at the end of the day and yes this year we do have afternoon tea and wine included with our meals!

Even without its sister resort of Tignes, Val d’Isère would be one of the finest ski areas in the world. Together they are pretty much unbeatable, particularly for skiers and snowboarders searching for challenging off-piste terrain. And yet there’s plenty for beginners, intermediates and those who like to take their skiing at a leisurely pace as well!

“Val” combines with Tignes to form the fantastic Espace Killy, offering endless excitement to suit all tastes and abilities.

The resort is composed of La Daille, Val d’Isère centre and Le Fornet, all linked by a free bus service. At the bottom of the famous Ski World Cup piste, La Daille provides easy access to skiing via the Funival funicular whilst Val d’Isère centre has a lovely alpine village atmosphere. With many cleared walks, shops and a sports centre, Val d’Isère also offers plenty for the non-skier. Val is renowned for its nightlife, which ranges from lively clubs to cosy crêperies and traditional bars.

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Please see the detailed information on the Spice UK Website including Inghams Booking Terms and Conditions The tour operator for this flight inclusive holiday is Inghams (ATOL 0025) for whom we act as Agents. This holiday is protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme in the event of failure of the tour operator. Inghams holiday terms and conditions apply, as supplied with the full holiday information pack.

Your money is further protected via our trust account in compliance with EC travel regulations 53

Camping Afloat - Lapworth Ring .. a legendary weekend on the waterways! th

Date: Friday 8 - Sunday 10th September 2017 Place: Gas Street Basin, off Broad St, Bham (B1 2JT) # Meet: Friday evening Cost: £65 (£79 Guest) (Deposit £15) Incl: Boat & Boatman, Spice Coordinator Extra: No food included - kitty system operated by coordinator This is the simplest form of narrow boating and very similar in conditions to what the navies on coal barges would have experienced in the days when the canals were in their heyday. This is why we call it ‘camping afloat’. Depending on numbers we can charter either one or two boats and each boat has 12 basic bunks with mattresses under a tarpaulin cover so we can take a party of up to 24 (you must be prepared for mixed sex sleeping as we can’t segregate bunk areas).

Friday Night: We join our boat at historic Gas Street, but are not travelling tonight, just sleeping over. This means we can have a night out on Broad Street, without having to drive home afterwards!

Saturday: It’s all hands on deck for a 9am start, and we’re soon on the famous and atmospheric Farmers Bridge flight of locks that take us under the Post Office Tower and Snow Hill Station down to the Digbeth Canal which links us to The Grand Union Canal which is the main line to London. You’ll see Birmingham from an entirely new perspective and feel the presence of busy boatment from days gone by. There are a number of pub stop opportunities if we decide we deserve one! The Grand Union Canal takes us through Digbeth, Camp Hill, Tyseley, Acocks Green and Solihull to the leafy Worwickshire countryside and to The canal junction at Lapworth where we rest for the night. There will be a pub stop for lunch/ drinks and in the evening we’ll retire to a pub for a hearty meal (pub meals are not included but reasonably priced) Sunday: Being a circular route, we’ll expect lots of new sights today. It’s a journey of contrasts, with both industry and open fields to enjoy on the way! It’s hard work as well in places, as we’ll be working as a team to navigate several locks including the famous flight of 19 locks at Lapworth itself! Our leisurely journey back uses the Stratford Canal with its split bridges and cottages. We turn at Kings Norton to pass Bourneville and Edgbaston on a lock free return.

Life Afloat: Do not expect any privacy on the boats and bear in mind that there is only one simple toilet, and a basic stove.

Washing is by hand bowl, although the skipper is usually able to find a shower stop (if anyone is that bothered) and the best bet for real toilets is to use pubs along the way! You’ve really got to see the conditions as part of the adventure and fun if you are going to enjoy this sort of trip. These trips are great for making friends, as there’s a ‘back to nature bonding’ that you can’t achieve in a 5 star hotel! So take the opportunity to step out of your usual “comfort zone” and enjoy!

Bham to Warwick Downhill Walking Break .. a 2 day canal walk with a spa hotel!

Sunday 13 - Monday 14th August 2017 The Abbey Hotel, Beoley near Reddich (B98 9BE) # 9am Sunday at Hotel (Ends around 5pm Monday at Hotel) £99 (£109 Guest) Sharing. Add £30 if you prefer a single Walk leading, 1 night in 4 star hotel with dinner, b’fast & spa Car parking for duration. 4 x Coach transfers to/from hotel and start, finish & mid point of walk Extras: Optional pub lunches or buffet lunches. Saturday hotel DB&B option (see online) Note: This 2 day walk runs Sunday to Monday due to logistics and hotel prices. This is our 3rd “Downhill Walking Break”.

In October we walked from Birmingham to Worcester along the Worcester-Birmingham Canal and in April we walked from Birmingham to Stratford along the Stratford upon Avon Canal. This time we are walking Birmingham to Warwick along the Grand Union. The distance is around 22 – 24 miles and we’ll do approx 14 miles on day one and 8 -10 day two.

The Canal: The Grand Union runs from Birmingham to London so was the most important of all the canals we have walked. This lovely canal towpath takes us a slice through industrial Birmingham and out through lots of open countryside and Warwickshire Villages. Back in 1799, this canal transformed the economy dramatically at every wharf it passed.

We start in Birmingham's industrial suburbia at the evocative Proof House Junction (beside the historic Proof House where guns have been tested for centuries) which in turn sits beside Typhoo Basin (where tea was delivered into the city from London). The first 4 – 5 miles is fairly urban before it becomes more leafy and rural past Catherine De Barnes and Knowle. We will pass the grand estate of Baddesley Clinton before reaching Lapworth and Kingswood Junction. We will also discover Shrewley Tunnel which we have to go over, partly by using a unique “towpath tunnel” before we reach Hatton and walk down the impressive Hatton flight of Locks on our way to Warwick itself, with its castle in the distance.

Logistics: We are starting on Sunday morning at The Abbey Hotel where we can park our cars and drop off our bags. A coach will be waiting to take us to our start point. We plan to have a lunch stop and if time permits, another short pub stop during the day before we finish our day at Lapworth where the coach will be waiting to take us back to our hotel for a relaxing evening and dinner together. On Monday, we are returned to Lapworth to continue our walk to Warwick. Again there will be a lunch stop and the coach will meet us in Warwick to return us to collect our bags and cars at the hotel.

Fitness note: We are pitching this break at regular walkers with reasonable walking fitness. It’s easy walking. There are no hills and the pace will be relaxed but you still need to be capable of doing two long days of walking back to back.

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Wuthering Heights Walking W’end .. discover one of the finest walking areas in the UK Friday 25 – Bank Holiday Monday 28th August 2017 Craiglands Hotel, Ilkley, West Yorkshire (LS29 8RQ) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 8pm) £249 (£269 Guest) sharing. Incl: 3 b’fasts, 3 picnic lunches, 3 dinner & 3 guided walks (Deposit £50). Single supp £70 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: This charming programme combines a grand, warm and friendly Victorian hotel with the traditional historic spa town of Ilkley. The Craigland’s Hotel sits close to one of the finest walking areas in the country, the Yorkshire Dales National Park. However, just behind the hotel lies the famous Ilkley Moor and the gritstone hills of the South Pennines.

Our Spice weekend will get away from it all by walking in three contrasting areas including the wild and dramatic Bronte country of Wuthering Heights, the picturesque riverside of the Lower Wharfdale and the majestic Ilkley Moor itself. We’ll spend our days walking the hills and dales, through the wild moorlands and criss-crossing the lush landscapes adorned by dry stone walls. In the evenings we’ll wine and dine in the splendour of the hotel’s excellent restaurant and bar.

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Beddegelert Snowdonia Walking W’end .. discover the heart of Snowdonia Friday 22 - Sunday 24th September 2017 The Royal Goat Hotel, Beddgelert, Wales (LL55 4YE) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 8pm) £189 (£209 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £50 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: The Royal Goat is a cracking hotel, located in the charming village of Beddgelert in the heart of Snowdonia!

The chef has a super menu of tasty and filling meals and there are real ales in the bar and also 2 or 3 charming country pubs within short reach of the hotel. Add to this the superb walking that literally surrounds this centre, with the high lofty ridges of Moel Hebog and Yr Aran. But you don’t have to climb these mighty peaks, it’s just as wonderful to gaze up at them from a peaceful lakes, or to wander over the heather clad moors, stroll by the tumbling rivers or wander through the secluded woodland. All of which makes it a very attractive and interesting walking weekend, see you out on the hills!

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Norfolk Coast & Broads Walking W’end .. explore the Broads and some sections of the delightful coastline Friday 29th September - Sunday 1st October 2017 Burlington Palm Hotel, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk (NR30 1EG) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 8pm) £179 (£199 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £40 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: Norfolk has always been high on the wish list with recent visits to Kings Lynn and Cromer. This year we have secured a new hotel on the sea front which occupies an enviable location, in the quiet part of town, with only the manicured parks separating it from the miles of golden sands. If you wish you can simply relax on the hotel’s deck and watch the world go by, and if the seas too cold for you, you can always take a dip in the hotel’s pool. And the walking is great too, this year it’s our plan to walk to further explore the Broads and some sections of the delightful coastline. The Norfolk Broads is a unique national park famed for its quiet waterways and stunning nature reserves. But contrary to popular belief, its’ not just accessible by boat, and much of it is networked by a maze of peaceful footpaths. To add contrast to the walks we will also visit some picture perfect villages, explore the stunning nature reserves and finish our days lazing on the golden beaches! So do you fancy a walking weekend in Norfolk!

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

For All 3 Walkwise Breaks above: These are edited write-ups, before booking, please read the full details find the full write up at www.spicebham.com or call 0121 353 6161 and we’ll send you a copy.

All 3 events are organized and supplied by WalkWise UK Ltd, whose terms and conditions apply, obtainable on request and for whom your local SPICE group acts as an agent. Those booking

See the whole Walkwise Programme is online at www.spicebham.com 55

Carrbridge & Cairngorms Walking W’end .. walk the largest National Park in the UK Friday 6 - Sunday 8th October 2017 Carrbridge Hotel, Main Street, Carrbridge, Inverness-shire (PH23 3AB) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 8pm) £175 (£195 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £40 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: Well it’s time for us to revisit the Cairngorms which became Scotland’s 2nd National Park in Oct 17; it is also the largest National Park in the UK. The area features the highest, coldest and snowiest plateau and is also home to five of the nine highest mountains in the UK. There are also some stunning glens with secluded lochans and maze of tracks and footpaths that enable everyone to explore them. One of the outstanding joys of this precious area is the wildlife and its habitats. The Cairngorms National Park is home to a diverse & spectacular range of species that either make this their home all year round, or return annually after seasonal migration. The area has high arctic mountain plateaus, ancient Caledonian pine forests, lochs and rivers all of which have thriving and various species breeding throughout the year.

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Exceptional Black Mountains Walking W’end .. enjoy classic hill walking from Hay on Wye Friday 6 - Sunday 8th October 2017 Baskerville Hall, Clyro, Nr Hay-on-Wye (HR3 5LE) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 8pm) £189 (£209 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £40 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: This weekend we’re all in for an inspiring treat of discovery. We shall be taking in all the highlights of walking the best of the Black Mountains from Hay-on-Wye’s doorstep. We shall be based in Baskerville Hall which is set in 140 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside in the Black Mountains on the very Eastern fringes of the Brecon Beacons National Park. This National Park contains some of the most spectacular and distinctive upland formations in southern Britain.

Since 1985 this amazing landscape has also been officially recognised as one of the most important geological landscapes in Europe. This is real hill walking on real hills and for those who have never been to the area you’re in for a nice surprise!

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Llangollen Delights Walking W’end .. enjoy remarkable scenery Friday 20th - Sunday 22nd October 2017 Wild Pheasant Hotel, Llangollen, North Wales (LL20 8AD) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 8pm) £189 (£209 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £50 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: Our annual Spice pilgrimage to the wonderful newly refurbished Wild Pheasant Hotel is here again and we just can’t wait to get back. Their food, hospitality and relaxing spa facilities make it far too alluring for us not to return. The lush Vale of Llangollen has some remarkable scenery from the colourful deciduous woodlands that line the meandering river banks to miles of peaceful canals and all with a backdrop of towering limestone escarpments which lead out to the open ridges, hills and moorlands beyond. With so many variants to the walks it’s often a dilemma which walks to choose.

However that said, one day this year will be spent exploring the Llantysilio mountain range, and the other day the Eglwyseg, we are spoilt for choice in these picturesque valleysMagnificent countryside, combined with a great hotel and town well known for its traditional pubs and live music all ensure that this will once again be a another excellent weekend.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

For All 3 Walkwise Breaks above: These are edited write-ups, before booking, please read the full details find the full write up at www.spicebham.com or call 0121 353 6161 and we’ll send you a copy.

All 3 events are organized and supplied by WalkWise UK Ltd, whose terms and conditions apply, obtainable on request and for whom your local SPICE group acts as an agent. Those booking

See the whole Walkwise Programme is online at www.spicebham.com

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Exmoor & Somerset Coast Walking W’end .. enjoy spectacular walking of many contrasts Friday 27 - Sunday 29th October 2017 Holnicote House, Selworthy, Exmoor (TA24 8TJ) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 7pm) £189 (£209 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £40 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: Majestic walking brings together the best of both worlds from Exmoor’s National Park. Firstly comes the truly spectacular walking on the South West coastal path with huge towering cliffs, wooded bays and spectacular sea-scapes and maybe even seals for our first great day out. A second astonishing world of contrast is one of heather clad moors, sweeping hills, wooded combes, vibrant yellow gorse, purple heather, wild ponies and Red Deer. But oh no, it doesn’t stop there .. perhaps we could throw in an historic National Trust leased Country House, dating from 1860, a quiet and peaceful property, full of charm and character, surrounded by an extensive estate within the Exmoor National Park.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Keswick Derwentwater & Bassenthwaite W’end .. discover this wonderful walking area Friday 3rd - Sunday 5th November 2017 Derwent Bank, Portinscale, Lake District (CA12 5TY) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 7pm) £189 (£209 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £40 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: This is only our second visit to this fine house with spectacular views to Keswick and a waterside frontage comparable to any property on the lake. Its amazing location allows us get the very best out the wonderful walking area.

With great walking days planned to take in the high and low fells we will experience everything the north Lakes has to offer. Ranging from; the fine high fells with open moorland, to the low level field systems laden with dry-stone walls; from the fast flowing rivers replete with tumbling ghylls, to the hidden away gems of Derwentwater and Bassentwaite.

Amazingly this is all without even mentioning the fine white washed friendly country pubs with real fires and real ales!

Also, though we can’t guarantee this yet, but if there is a local bonfire and firework display we’ll aim to pack that in too!

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Whitby Heritage Coast Walking W’end .. enjoy coastal walks from a great base Friday 17th - Sunday 19th November 2017 Larpool Hall, Whitby, North York Moors (YO22 4ND) # Anytime from 4pm (meal at 7pm) £189 (£209 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 b’fasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinner & 2 guided walks (Deposit £35). Single supp £40 otherwise we link twin shares Extras: Transport to walk starts if used.

Overview: This excellent Whitby walking weekend has a change of venue this year. We have always longed to run out of this historic Country House, a grade II listed building dating from the 1780’s...by the way. From this elegant property you’ll enjoy far reaching views across the wooded grounds and Esk valley all the way towards the sea at Whitby. The location of this hotel, centrally situated 30 minutes walk above Whitby not only allows us to experience tremendous surroundings but also affords us the opportunity to achieve truly interesting and invigorating walking. By day we shall whisk ourselves off along the best of the Heritage Coast. Here we shall indulge ourselves with 2 super coastal days, one from the north west and one from the south east, to finish each afternoon with refreshments in the bustling, picturesque fishing town Whitby. By night we shall have the option of staying safe in our luxurious centre or heading back in to Whitby to partake of the night life in this small but vibrant town. Whey hey!

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

For All 3 Walkwise Breaks above: These are edited write-ups, before booking, please read the full details find the full write up at www.spicebham.com or call 0121 353 6161 and we’ll send you a copy.

All 3 events are organized and supplied by WalkWise UK Ltd, whose terms and conditions apply, obtainable on request and for whom your local SPICE group acts as an agent. Those booking

See the whole Walkwise Programme is online at www.spicebham.com 57

Horse Riding W’end for Beginners .. a weekend for Beginners & Improvers in a fabulous location Date: Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th September 2017 Place: Springhill Farm, Nr. Oswestry, Shropshire (SY10 7NZ) # Cost: £199.50 (£219.50 Guest) Deposit £40. Incl: 2 nights dorm accommodation, 2 b’fast, Friday night buffet, Saturday night meal and horse-riding as outlined in the write up A great value for money horse riding weekend at the fabulous Springhill Farm in Shropshire where they have a variety of horses & ponies to suit riders of all abilities and complete beginners. Included in the price of the weekend is a 1 hour lesson on the Saturday morning where your ability will be assessed and you will be matched up with a Horse/Pony for the weekend. On Saturday afternoon we will be split into groups and will go out in the beautiful countryside for a 1½ hour hack. On the Sunday morning we will have the choice of whether we use our final hour to go out for a hack or have another lesson to improve our skills. For those who are really keen there is the option on the weekend to book and pay for a further ride in the afternoon however for those who don't ride very often, you may find you are a bit saddle sore for that.

Day Ride Option for Experienced Riders: There is a booking option on our website at an extra £30.50 to include a day ride for experienced riders on the Saturday which includes 4 hours of riding including galloping/cantering in the beautiful hills & moorland and also incorporating either a pub visit (lunch additional) or a picnic stop where we will take our own lunch (provided) - our decision will be made on the morning subject to the weather. On the Sunday morning we use our final hour & a half to go out in to the stunning countryside once more for another hack. If you haven't ridden on this weekend with us before and we therefore do not know if you can control the horse at a gallop then you will need to pay an additional £10 to the venue for a Friday evening/early Saturday morning assessment ride to ensure you aren't over faced.

Edited details - full writeup for this break can be found at www.spicebham.com

Surfing Weekend at Croyde Bay .. surf's up for a great weekend!

Friday 11 – 13 August 2017 Croyde Bay, Devon (EX33 1YP) # Friday evening £179 (£199 Guest) for standard share of twin room. Other room options listed online. Incl: 3 surf sessions inc. wet suit & board, B&B accommodation. Lunch on Saturday at the Surf School.

Extras: Meals and drinks Single rooms subject to availability (POA) North Devon is renowned for its spectacular coastlines and golden beaches and Croyde has beautiful and stunning scenery.

The sandy beach draws surfers from all over the world. It faces west into the Atlantic and enjoys a famed reputation for its consistent waves! Our surf school is situated in the beach car park just a few metres from the sand. Over the weekend we will have 3 lessons where you will learn about surfboards, the techniques for standing up and of course how to surf!

Edited details - full writeup for this break can be found at www.spicebham.com or sent on request.

Dates: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Elan Valley Walking/Social Weekend .. Discover the beautiful and dramatic Elan Valley th

Date: Friday 13 - Sunday 15th October 2017 Place: Metropole Hotel, Temple St, Powys (LD1 5DY) # Meet: Friday evening Cost: £179 (£199 Guest) Sharing (we link shares) or add £30 for Single Room. Deposit £30 We return to this wonderful walking area with Steve Dell. Aimed at both serious and social walkers, it offers wonderful scenery, reservoirs, woods and dramatic valleys. The Hotel's Victorian grandeur is complemented by a superb indoor Leisure and Spa Complex in a Victorian style conservatory. There will also be social activities. Read more online.

Butlin's 80's Party Weekend .. let's party like it's 1985!

Friday 29 September - Monday 2nd October 2017 Ingoldmells, Skegness, Lincolnshire (PE25 1NJ) # Arrive from 4pm £175 (£195 Guest) sharing (Deposit £35) Incl: 3 nights fun party weekend in Silver Standard self catering apartments, all live entertainment to various venues on site, Spice host throughout This is a National Spice Weekend as we do know you like to party! Experience a weekend of great music from the bands of the 80s including: Jason Donovan, Doctor & The Medics, Paul Young, Jive Bunny, Johnny Hates Jazz, Pat Sharp plus great tribute bands to The Jam, Madness and more. Spice will be amongst 5000 people there! Read more online.

58 Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

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Bristol Balloon Fiesta W’end .. experience this awesome spectacle Friday 11th - Sunday 13th August 2017 Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel, Broad Street, Bristol (BS1 2EL) # Arrive from 4pm £220 (£240 Guest) sharing. Incl: 2 nights B&B & Balloon Fiesta, City Docks Packet Boat Cruise & Spice Host throughout. (Deposit £35). Single supp £60 otherwise we link shares Bristol host Europe’s largest ballooning event for the 38 th time. In this amazing spectacle over 150 hot air balloons will take off from Ashton Court Estate at dawn and light up the skies at night with evening glows. As well as colourful hot-air balloon displays, attracting over half a million visitors. There’s also entertainment; fairground rides, food stalls, craft fair, dance stage, Red Arrows etc. The nightglows and mass ascents are spectacular. It’s a world event – don’t miss it!

Edited details - full writeup for this break can be found at www.spicebham.com or sent on request.

Date: Place: Meet: Cost:

Sailing Weekends & Holidays .. check out our schedule of trips for this year!

Lots of trips are now on our website to view & book. Just search on the word “Sailing”. Such as: ● Sailing Weekends on the Solent - 21 - 23 July and 8 - 10 Sep 2017 ● Sailing - Cross Channel Bank Holiday Weekend - 24 - 28 August 2017 ● Sailing, Swimming & Snorkelling Weekends in Malta - 8 - 11 Sept & 13 - 16 October 2017 ● Fun Sailing Weekend with Torbay Sea School & Rib Ride –14 - 16 July, 15 - 17 Sept or 3 – 5 Nov 2017

Edinburgh Festival Weekend 2017 .. the party of the year - the time of your life! th

Date: Friday 25 - Monday 28th August 2017 Place: Pollock Halls, Edinburgh (EH16 5AY) # Cost: £245 (£265 Guest) Twin Share or add £105 for single Room, (Deposit £50) Incl: 3 Nights B&B, Royal Mile Guided Walk, Arthurs Seat Walk, Festival Ceilidh, Spice Host Please note: Upon booking, we will send you an email detailing all of the extra shows and meals that you can book in advance. Feel free to call us on 0121 353 6161 or Jamie at Spice Scotland directly on 0131 531 2653, for more info.

Edited details - full writeup for this break can be found at www.spicebham.com or sent on request.

Dana Prison Sleepover & Optional Escape! .. do the time without the crime nd

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Date: Saturday 2 - Sunday 3 September 2017 Place: Shrewsbury (SY1 2HR) # Meet: 7:15pm for 7:30pm start Cost: £55 (£58 Guest) for Sleepover, plus £34 for prison escape (if requ’d) Incl: Bed frame, cell, cold floor, searches etc. Tea and coffee A unique overnight stay at a 200 year old prison. This is a one off ‘Night in A Cell’ experience which is a bit of a change to our usual hotel/ hostel stays. To add to the experience there’s the chance to breakout as well! Read more on our website _____________________________ “It was a Center Parcs photo challenge – honest”

Why Pay a Single Supp when you’re with Spice!

Many people book our breaks on their own, so we don’t believe in penalizing the single traveler.

We are more than happy arrange same sex room shares – and this is what most members opt for.

Spicers are very friendly, so don’t worry if you don’t know anyone. You’ll be bonded into the “family” in no time.

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Events Index A Christmas Wassail ........................................ 47 Abseiling for the Terrified ................................ 17 Acosta Danza ................................................... 45 Acting for Beginners Workshop ....................... 51 Aladdin - Birmingham Royal Ballet ................. 44 Alison Moyet .................................................... 46 Alvechurch Easy Ramble ................................. 28 An Evening with Sir Michael Parkinson ........... 44 Back Stage Hippodrome Tour .......................... 38 Baddesley Clinton Evening Ramble ................. 26 Badminton Sessions.......................................... 40 Balloon Flight ..................................................... 5 Balloon Modelling for Fun ............................... 52 Barn Dance & Supper ......................................... 1 Barton Arms Tour & Thai Meal ....................... 37 Bat Night in Sutton Park ..................................... 9 BBC Behind the Scenes .................................... 36 Beddegelert Snowdonia Walking W'end ........... 55 Beginners Photography Course ......................... 50 Berkswell Evening Ramble .............................. 25 Bewdley & Arley Ramble ................................ 30 Bike Ride - Forest Of Dean .............................. 12 Bill Bailey - Larks in Transit ............................ 47 Bird of Prey Photography ................................... 9 Birmingham at War Afternoon Walk ................ 15 Bham to Preston Bagot Towpath Cycle ............ 13 Bham to Warwick Walking Break .................... 54 Blacksmithing Evening..................................... 48 Boathouse at Bracebridge ................................... 2 Bosworth Steam Train Ramble ......................... 25 Bradgate Proms in the Park .............................. 42 Branston & Tatenhill Ramble & Lunch ............ 27 Breadmaking Workshop at Hindleys ................ 49 Bristol Balloon Fiesta W’end............................ 59 Broadway 10 Mile Ramble ............................... 28 Burford 10 Mile Ramble ................................... 28 Butlin's 80's Party W’end - Skegness ................ 58 Calke Abbey Autumnal Ramble ....................... 31 Camping Afloat - The Lapworth Ring .............. 54 Canadian Canoe Adventure .............................. 18 Cannes by Eurostar Riviera Break .................... 53 Cannock Chase at War Ramble ........................ 31 Carrbridge & Cairngorms W’end ..................... 56 Caving for the Terrified .................................... 18 Charles Dickens' Ghost Stories ......................... 46 Chillington Hall Tour & Tractor ....................... 39 Cinderella the Panto ......................................... 47 Cinema Night ................................................... 41 Comedy Night at the Chateau ........................... 45 Creating with Clay-make a teddy bear .............. 52 Curry & Quiz - Solihull .................................... 24 Dana Prison Sleepover Experience ................... 59 David Baddiel - My Family .............................. 47 Decoupatch Craft Evening ................................ 50 Deer Walk with a Ranger at Bradgate ................. 9 Dirty Dancing Live at Conkers ......................... 43 Dr Feelgood Live at the Jam House .................. 42 Drumming Experience for Beginners ............... 48 Earlswood Twilight Ramble & Supper ............. 29 Eat Messy at Nosh & Quaff!............................... 4 Edinburgh Festival W’end 2017 ....................... 59 Edit your Wardrobe .......................................... 50 Edmunds Fine Dining Experience ...................... 3 Elan Valley Walking/Social W’end .................. 58 Elizabeth I at Tutbury Castle & Supper ............ 35 Elmley Castle/Bredon Hill Hard Walk .............. 26 Entertaining Mr Sloane ..................................... 44 Erasmus Darwin Evening & Cellar Tour .......... 36 Escape Room Challenge ................................... 35 Exceptional Black Mountains W’end ............... 56 Exmoor & Somerset Coast W’end .................... 57 Film Concert - Pyscho ...................................... 45 Firework Champions at Ragley Hall ................. 35 Fly a Plane from Coventry to Stratford ............... 5 Forest Segway on Cannock Chase .................... 16 Forhill Evening Ramble .................................... 27 Fungi Foray in Sutton Park ............................... 51 Ghost Walk of Sutton Coldfield........................ 15 Ghostly & Grisly Birmingham Walk ................ 15 Gliding Evening at Stratford ............................... 5 Go Ape in Cannock .......................................... 18 Greek Meal & Quiz - Sutton Coldfield ............. 24 Greek Party Night at Santorini ............................ 4 Hamish Stuart at the Jam House ....................... 41 Hangliding - Tandem Experience ....................... 6 Harvey Nichols Dinner Shuffle .......................... 2 Heart Book Fold Workshop .............................. 50 Helicopter Lesson ............................................... 5 Henley in Arden Moderate Ramble .................. 28 Himley Hall & Baggeridge Ramble .................. 28

Hobson's Choice ............................................... 43 Hoola Hooping ................................................. 40 Hopwood & Barnt Green Ramble ..................... 31 Horse Archery .................................................. 10 Horse Riding Fun Day!....................................... 8 Horse Riding W’end for Beg & Imps ............... 58 How to Make Friends & Influence.................... 52 Incredible Auto Circus...................................... 16 Indoor Climbing at Redpoint Centre ................. 17 Indoor Shooting ................................................ 32 Indoor Skydiving ................................................ 7 Inflatable Action Fun ........................................ 20 Ironbridge Canoe & Kayak Cruise .................... 21 Ironbridge to Bridgnorth Raft & BBQ .............. 20 Jayne Eyre ........................................................ 43 JCB VIP Visit & Breakfast ............................... 37 Jersey Boys....................................................... 47 Jewellery Making with Beads ........................... 51 Jewellery Quarter Cemeteries Tour .................. 38 Jewellery Quarter Walk & Buffet ..................... 15 Katherine Ryan's Glitter Room ......................... 46 Kayak River Adventure .................................... 18 Kayaking for Fun.............................................. 19 Keswick Derwentwater & Bas'e W’end ............ 57 King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys ..................... 46 Kingsbury Very Easy Ramble .......................... 25 Kingsbury & Middleton Hall Ramble ............... 28 Knowle Easy Ramble ....................................... 27 La Nonna Italian Dinner Shuffle ......................... 3 Lasan Indian Banquet ......................................... 4 Lichfield Cathedral Treasures & Lights ............ 34 Lickey Hills & Bittell Ramble .......................... 25 Llama Trek & Rare Breeds Farm ...................... 10 Llangollen Delights Walking W’end ................ 56 Long Mynd Hard Ramble ................................. 26 Make a Chain Maille Necklace ......................... 52 Matthew Bournes Cinderella ............................ 47 Meat Feast Brazilian Dining at The Cube ........... 4 Medieval Jousting............................................. 10 Meet the Meerkats Experience ............................ 9 Microlighting Experience Flight ......................... 6 Mike Sanchez at the Jam House ....................... 44 Milton Under Wychwood Ramble .................... 30 Modern British Dinner Shuffle ........................... 3 Moroccan Dinner Shuffle ................................... 2 Mosaic Making Workshop................................ 51 Moseley Village Discovery Walk ..................... 15 Motorbike Off Road Experience ....................... 16 Multi Water Sports Morning............................. 20 Napton on the Hill Easy/Mod Ramble .............. 29 New Dogs Home Visit in Solihull .................... 36 New Members Beer, Skittles & Supper ............ 35 New Members Easy Morning Ramble .............. 25 New Members Sunday Lunch Buffet .................. 2 New Year Meat Feast at Rodizio Rico ................ 4 Newhall Mill Walks & Open Day..................... 29 Newton Burgoland/Snarestone Ramble ............ 29 Nina Conti - In Your Face ................................ 45 Nordic Walk at Ironbridge & Lunch ................. 27 Nordic Walking at Lickey Hills ........................ 26 Nordic Walking Fast Track Course................... 28 Norfolk Coast & Broads W’end........................ 55 Ocean Film Festival World Tour ...................... 43 Open Cockpits Night at RAF Cosford .............. 37 Outdoor Cinema Night, Mamma Mia ............... 41 Overnight Forest Experience ............................ 17 Owl Hour............................................................ 9 Paragliding - Tandem Experience ....................... 6 Paragliding Day Course ...................................... 6 Peak District Walk Bakewell & Ashford in the Water ............... 28 Chatsworth Estate ....................................... 27 Chrome Hill from Longnor ......................... 25 Cromford & Lea.......................................... 29 Cuckoostone & Rare Waterfalls .................. 28 Edale - Rushop Edge ................................... 31 Hartington & Biggin Dale ........................... 29 Hathersage to Hope ..................................... 30 Kinder Southern Edge ................................. 26 Monyash ..................................................... 25 Parkhouse Hill from Longnor...................... 28 Rowsley & Heritage Railway ...................... 27 Waterhouses ................................................ 26 Wetton & Butterton..................................... 29 Peaky Blinders Night ........................................ 33 Pie Factory Night with Live Music ..................... 3 Play with Clay Using a Potters Wheel! ............. 49 Pole Dancing with Pure Joy .............................. 14 Pony Trekking & Picnic - Forest of Dean ........... 8 Preston Bagott Easy Ramble & Lunch .............. 29

60

Preview Evenings ............................................. 22 Prison Escape ................................................... 34 Prison Lunch at Sudbury .................................... 3 Quad Bike Woodland Trek ............................... 16 Quiz - Sound & Vision ..................................... 24 Ramble, Scramble & Dangle ............................ 18 Robs Railway Ramble Nuneaton & Atherstone............................... 30 Shenstone & Lichfield ................................ 27 Rock Climbing for the Terrified ....................... 20 Rodney's Pillar Hard Walk ............................... 30 Romsley & Waseley Hills Ramble ................... 30 Rounders for Free in Sutton Park ...................... 40 Royal Crown Derby Pottery Visit ..................... 38 RSPB Autumn Stroll .......................................... 8 Run Jog or Walk in the Park ............................. 40 Sailing Weekends & Holidays .......................... 59 Salsa Dance Workshop ..................................... 14 Samba Dance Experience ................................. 14 Segway Polo for Beginners............................... 21 Sex & the Tudors at Tutbury Castle .................. 34 Shakatak at the Jam House ............................... 46 Simple Sewing Workshop with Cake................ 48 Singers Hill Synagogue Open Day ................... 39 Ski Val D'Isere - Ski Trip 2018......................... 53 Smethwicks' Amazing Canal Walk ................... 15 Social Cycle Ride Measham & Moira Furnace ......................... 13 Stratford upon Avon & Greenway............... 12 Walton on Trent & Fradley Junction ........... 13 Kenilworth to Hatton Circular. ................... 12 Songs from the Shows & Abba Cabaret .............. 1 Spamalot........................................................... 44 Spanish Dinner Shuffle at El Borracho ............... 1 Spetchley Gardens & Head Gardener ............... 33 Spice Book Clubs ............................................. 11 Spice Death Club .............................................. 11 Spice Hits Town ............................................... 22 Spice Wing Walking........................................... 5 Stand Up Paddle Boarding ................................ 21 Staunton Harold Hall Ramble ........................... 25 Stone Carving For Beginners ............................ 49 Stonehenge Sunset Tour ................................... 34 Stow on the Wold 10 Mile Ramble ................... 26 Sunset Boulevard .............................................. 46 Supersonic 70's Music Night at Conkers ........... 41 Surfing W’end a Croyde Bay ............................ 58 Sutton Park History Walk ................................. 37 SWAT Training Mission .................................. 32 Swing Dance Classes ........................................ 14 Symonds Yat Adventure Mission ..................... 17 Tamworth Castle Evening Tour ........................ 33 Tandem Skydive from 12,000ft .......................... 7 Tango Moderno - A Tango For Today .............. 43 Tanworth in Arden Easy Ramble ...................... 26 Tardebigge Locks Ramble ................................ 29 Ten Pin Bowling ............................................... 33 Tewkesbury Abbey/Battlefields Ramble........... 29 The 3 Degrees at the Jam House ....................... 42 The Great Gatsby.............................................. 43 The Magic of Motown at Conkers .................... 41 The Mary Ashford Mystery .............................. 39 The Secret Garden ............................................ 42 The Trouble with Old Lovers ........................... 45 Tipton Discovery Walk (& Pie!) ....................... 15 Tom Browne (funkin' for Jamaica) ................... 42 Total 80's Live Music Night ............................. 42 Treasures of the Museum Tour ......................... 35 Trick Riding ..................................................... 10 UB40 Tribute Night at the Jam House .............. 45 Ukukulele for Fun ............................................ 49 Urban Challenge Ramble - Sutton .................... 27 Urban Ramble Birmingham Waterfront & Brunch.............. 30 Cannon Hill & Bournville Triangle ............. 26 Solihull Waterfront ..................................... 25 Vulcan Bomber Restoration Experience ........... 36 Wake up the Zoo ................................................ 8 Warwickshire Villages Ramble ........................ 31 Water Inflatable Fun at Rutland ........................ 21 Wellesbourne & Charlecote Ramble ................. 26 Western Style Rifle Shooting............................ 32 Weston Park Behind the Scenes/Tea ................. 38 Whitby Heritage Coast Walking W’end ........... 57 White Water Rafting at Bala ............................. 19 Whitewater Rafting at Nene ............................. 19 Wilmcote Easy Ramble .................................... 30 Wuthering Heights Walking W’end .................. 55 Zing! The Choir of Spice West Midlands ......... 48 Zip World - Ultimate Zipline Experience ......... 19

Spice Cancellation Policy EVENING AND ONE DAY EVENTS Providing you give us more than seven dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (includes weekends and EDQN KROLGD\V QRWLFH \RX ZLOO UHFHLYH D IXOO UHIXQG DV D &UHGLW 1RWH OHVV D &DQFHOODWLRQ )HH RI RI WKH FRVW RI WKH HYHQW 25 ORVV RI GHSRVLW ZKLFKHYHU LV ORZHU ZLWK D PLQLPXP RI Â&#x2026; H[FHSW ZKHUH VWDWHG RWKHUZLVH LQ WKH 1HZVOHWWHU HYHQW GHVFULSWLRQ &UHGLW 1RWHV DUH YDOLG IRU PRQWKV and only redeemable against events.

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Group Contact Details 6SLFH 8. 1DWLRQDO 2IÃ&#x20AC;FH 0161 873 8788 info@spiceuk.com www.spiceuk.com

Spice Manchester 0161 864 3849 info@spicemcr.com www.spicemcr.com

Spice Scotland 0131 531 2653 info@spicescotland.com www.spicescotland.com

Spice Yorkshire 0113 418 2818 info@spiceyorks.com www.spiceyorks.com

Spice East Midlands 01827 767150 RIÃ&#x20AC;FH#VSLFHHDVWPLGV FRP www.spiceeastmids.com

Spice West Midlands 0121 353 6161 info@spicebham.com www.spicebham.com

Spice Thames Valley & Solent 0118 9724810 info@thamesvalleyspice.co.uk www.thamesvalleyspice.co.uk

Spice London 01372 824223 dianne@spicelondon.co.uk www.spicelondon.co.uk

Spice South West & South Wales 0117 971 5593 kate@spicesouthwestandsouthwales.com www.spicebristolcardiff.com

Spice UK Emergency 24hr Telephone. 07778 298497 This emergency telephone is strictly for use for serious accidents and emergencies only. It is NOT for general enquiries, bookings, directions, etc.

Finding events in your local area: 'R \RX ZDQW WR Ã&#x20AC;QG D W\SH RI HYHQW HJ ZDONLQJ PHDOV RXW HWF RU HYHQWV LQ \RXU local area? You can do this quickly and simply on your local spice website From the home page click the EVENT button.

In the SEARCH EVENTS block you can search for a type of event by clicking on the drop down on CATEGORY for example WALKING, PARTIES, WEEKEND BREAKS etc. <RX FDQ Ã&#x20AC;QG DQ HYHQW LQ your area by selecting SUBCATEGORY and selecting your area for example ESSEX , KENT, SURREY etc.

You can also search on words, by using WORDS When done click SEARCH to Ã&#x20AC;QG ZKDW \RX ZDQW

sum_2017_41.14_singles.indd 9

17/07/2017 09:51

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sum_2017_41.14_singles.indd 13

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Highlighted He will be sharing the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;realâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sicily with us, providing an opportunity to see hidden treasures along the way.

This is a small trip with only 20 places available so early booking is recommended

ITALIAN WINE HARVEST & CINQUE TERRE VILLAGES 5 days, Friday 08 September 17 from ÂŁ650 Departs London Gatwick, Luton, Manchester and Edinburgh September is one of the most beautiful times to visit the hills of 0MUSF 1P KVTU TPVUI PG .JMBOP PWFS UIF 3JWFS 1P Whyâ&#x20AC;Ś because the hills are alive with the smell of grapes! The locals are busy and all the experts are waiting for the right day, the right hour to harvest the grapes at perfection!.

0MUSFQĂ&#x203A; 1BWFTF JO -PNCBSEZ JT UIF IJEEFO KFXFM PG UIF DSPXOĂž This experience is about great authentic Italian food, wine, visiting famous and relatively unknown areas nearby and in addition it provides everyone the opportunity to be fully emerged into the wine harvest in one of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest wine regions . This experience connects our guests to the hills and the local people through food and wine. *U T OPU TVSQSJTJOH UIBU *UBMZ IBT KVTU CFFO BOOPVODFE BT UIF healthiest country in the world, of which is a combination of food, the Mediterranean diet , the warm climate and good health care. If you are ready for a experience and want to feel connected to the local land and the people, then please come along.

LAKE MAGGIORE 6 days, Sunday 08 October 17 from ÂŁ599 Departs London Stansted or Manchester (Edinburgh available departing 07 Oct) Spice would like to introduce to you Lake Maggiore, Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second largest lake that lies in two countries at once. It is less glitzy than Lake Como, less crowded than Lake Garda and has a mild climate.

The tip of the lake is in Switzerland and the bottom is in Italy BOE UIF SJDI .FEJUFSSBOFBO WFHFUBUJPO XJUI NBHOJmDFOU NBKFTUJD mountain gives this area access to stunning valleys and some wonderful exploring possibilities.

In the Italian part of the lake one of the main tourist resorts JT "SPOB POF PG UIF NBKPS DJUJFT BOE UPVSJTU SFTPSUT PO -BLF Maggiore. With about 15,000 habitants, it is the most populous city of the lake too.

Arona is also the largest port of the Lake and is also home of the navigation of Lake Maggiore making it an ideal base for our break.

There is so much to do not only visiting the towns around the lake by water taxi but also some fabulous walking straight from the hotel..

SICILY THE ITALIAN WAY

LA SANTA SPORTS HOLIDAY

8 days, Saturday 16 September 17 from ÂŁ999 Departs London Gatwick or London Stansted

8 days, Thursday 12 October 17 from ÂŁ529 Departs London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham & Edinburgh

4FQUFNCFS JT B HSFBU UJNF PG UIF ZFBS UP FOKPZ 4JDJMZ UIF XFBUIFS is still warm, and, the island is quieter than August.

La Santa is quite simply a brilliant sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday and this will be our 29th year. The complex is completely self-contained and situated on the quiet side of Lanzarote. The wonderful thing about it apart from the hot sun is all the free sports you can learn - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s endless. This is a self-catering break so no food is included and a feature of the holiday are the informal group nights out in local restaurants.

During this week we will be experiencing some historical sights and in addition the hidden secret island off the mainland of Sicily, Marettimo.

Our hosts are Wings Italy, some of you will know them from our previous Italian experiences and Andrea Dal Moro, who previously lived in Sicily will be our host.

All Spice UK air holidays are protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme in the event of failure of the tour operator. Each tour operators ATOL number is stated at the end of every holiday write up on our website www.spiceuk.com plus full terms and conditions. Your money is QSPUFDUFE WJB PVS 5SVTU "DDPVOU JO DPNQMJBODF XJUI &$ 1BDLBHF 5SBWFM 3FHVMBUJPOT sum_2017_41.14_singles.indd 14

17/07/2017 09:51

Holidays

SKI CANADA AT CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR 13 days, Friday 23 December 17 from £1879 Departs London Heathrow only (Xmas & NY only departures available on request)

CUBA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SUN & FUN 13 days, Thursday 19 October 17 from £1695 Departs London Gatwick only Join us on a wonderful Caribbean break to the historic island of $VCBþ (FU BXBZ GSPN JU BMM UIJT BVUVNO BOE FOKPZ TPNF GVO JO the Caribbean sun with Spice!

This 12 night break to the Caribbeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest island, famed for its rum, salsa, vibrant culture and stunning beaches will be amazing. Spend a few days in the happening capital Havana and immerse yourself in decades of history intertwined with a hot salsa beat and plenty of rum cocktails before transferring to quieter Varadero for 7 nightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; All Inclusive relaxation on the beach.

"GUFS B EJGmDVMU GFX ZFBST JO &VSPQF SFDFOUMZ XJUI UIF TOPXT "GUFS B EJGmDVMU GFX ZFBST JO &VSPQF SFDFOUMZ XJUI UIF TOPXT DPNJOH WFSZ MBUF XF UIPVHIU XF E USZ TPNFUIJOH B CJU GVSUIFS BmFME BOE IFBE UP Canada!

Banff is a lively town set in the spectacularly beautiful Banff National Park. Downtown Banff offers traditional Canadian hospitality with an excellent variety of bars, some with live music, and a wide choice of restaurants catering for all tastes and budgets. Your Tri-area lift pass covers the three ski areas of Lake Louise ski area (45 minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive), Mount Norquay (10 minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive) and Sunshine Village (25 minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive). A regular ski bus service, included with the pre-booked Tri-area lift pass, operates from our Banff hotels to all three ski areas.

CYPRUS SPRING CHILLOUT VENICE BEFORE CHRISTMAS 4 days, Friday 15 December 17 from £569 Departs London Gatwick, Manchester or London Luton 7FOJDF JT B VOJRVF DJUZ DPOTUBOUMZ mHIUJOH BHBJOTU UIF 7FOJDF JT B VOJRVF DJUZ DPOTUBOUMZ mHIUJOH BHBJOTU UIF SJTJOH UJEFT PG the Mediterranean and its status as an island state throughout recent history has left it independent and passionate. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must seeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sights in Venice are St. Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Square and the 11th century Basilica, the Doges Palace and the famous Bridge of Sighs but to really discover the essence of Venice you need to set off and get yourself lost! Nothing beats a stroll through the backstreets taking in the architecture and the Venetians.

This is a chance to get away from the chaos of Chrsitmas QSFQBSBUJPO BOE FOKPZ B TIPSU CSFBL JO UIJT CFBVUJGVM DJUZ :PVS itinerary is quite well packed but also always some time for individual or group exploration!

8 days, Saturday 06 May 18 from £719 Departs London Gatwick, Luton, Birmingham & Manchester Cyprus, in the eastern Mediterranean, has a rich, turbulent history stretching back to antiquity. Known for its beaches, it has a rugged interior with wine-growing regions. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s separated into a Greek south and Turkish north, with the capital Nicosia also divided. Coastal Paphos is famed for its archaeological sites relating to the cult of Aphrodite as it is believed to be where the HPEEFTT mSTU DBNF UP FBSUI BOE JT AXIFSF UIF HPET HP PO IPMJEBZ The dividing line between Europe and the Orient, Cyprus has so much to offer and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not even mentioning the great weather!

The story of Cyprusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tumultuous past is told through its historic TJUFT 3PNBO SVJOT NVMUJGBDFUFE NVTFVNT BOE EVTUZ VSCBO streets. This sense of living history is highlighted most vividly in Paphos, with extraordinary archaeological sites like the Tombs of the Kings, which sprawls like an ancient theme park.

To book visit www.spiceuk.com or call Spice UK on 0161 873 8788

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