October 2015 - My Solihull, Knowle & Dorridge

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Delivered FREE to 22,000 homes in Solihull, Knowle & Dorridge

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Johnnie Walker MBE one of the most loved voices in broadcasting

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Is your dog scared of fireworks?

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29 The haunted house of Solihull

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26 A remarkable Silhillian’s iron will

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Dear Solihull - our wonderful community.

This issue is a mix of stories, from the real ghost sighting in one of our oldest most treasured houses and the inspirational and genuinely extraordinary Iron Man Challenge couple, Kim and Richard.

Meeting up with Johnnie Walker was fun. Because of my past in the music industry there were a ton of people we both knew and although our paths had never crossed before - they will again I’m sure, with the 2017 Radio One 50 year reunion. The challenge for me was editing his story down to one page but the entire article is available to read on our online site.

Our Human of Solihull holds a key role in keeping Marie Curie West Midlands running.

Till the next issue - take care

Julia Parsons

07831 395029 juliaparsons@swanpublishing.org www.swanpublishing.org www.facebook.com/ swanpublishing @MYSolihull

For advertising rates and sizes see page 43 Also advertise in our sister magazines My Moseley & Kings Heath and My Harborne & Edgbaston.

THE TEAM: Editor Photography

Julia Parsons Seven Star Photography

Published by Swan Publishing Ltd: 0121 689 0432 Designed by Digital Glue: 0121 399 0065 Printed by Newman Thomson: 01444 480 700

In this issue Is your dog afraid of fireworks?

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COVER STORY: Johnnie Walker - One of the most loved voices in broadcasting

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The Finesse £10,000 window giveaway 13 Humans of Solihull - Marie Curie’s Camilla Wood

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Fast Aid Responders - saving lives

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Vintage Solihull

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Only Fools and Horses (don’t make wills)

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A remarkable Silhillian’s iron will

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Solihull’s music competition

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The haunted house of Solihull

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Kate Sharma - Dorridge’s engaging conservationist

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Dr Louise - colds or flu?

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Breast Friends - cancer support group

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John Arnold - memories of Solihull

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Regulars What’s on Local tutors Competition page Local clubs and societies Where to eat Local business directory

11 16 22 23 25 38

Is your dog scared of fireworks?

If so, here are a few tips from Birmingham Dogs Home on how to help your pet cope through the fireworks season.

Look for the signs that show your dog is distressed:

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Don’t let their distress get to you. Remain calm and act normally which they will find reassuring as they reflect your feelings. Ignore loud bangs so your pet doesn’t feed off your anxiety.

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Refusing to eat

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Cowering or trying to hide, squeezing into small spaces

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Try not to leave your pet home alone. They need you!

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Pacing, panting, trembling, shaking

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Barking or whining/whimpering

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Going to the toilet, inside.

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Unable to settle

Make a den for them - using blankets over and inside, to muffle the sound and vibrations or let them go under the bed. They can feel safer there. But make sure their water bowl is accessible as they may need to drink more.

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Try to desensitise your pet to noises and vibrations throughout the year, so they become used to loud sounds. There are DVDs and kits available online that can help.

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If you feel your pet’s stress levels are unmanageable, take them to your vet for further advice on medical treatments for them.It is a stressful time of year for all animals not only dogs, but caged animals which are outside such as rabbits, ferrets and even cats, if possible bring them inside to ensure their safety.

Here are some ways that you can try to help calm them: •

The obvious - absolutely do not take them to a fireworks event or leave them alone in a car. If taking them outside for toilet, keep on a short lead. Their instinct will be to bolt.

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Draw curtains, close windows and doors and keep your pet with you. With a TV or radio, turn the volume up higher than usual masking the firework noises.

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Give a distraction... a new toy, perhaps a Kong with treats in it. Play games like hiding tasty little treats around the room for them to find. Sometimes just having your attention focussed on them is good.

It is a stressful time of year for all animals -not only dogs and cats but small caged ones outside, rabbits, ferrets etc so if possible, bring them inside and give them plenty of bedding to burrow into.

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Johnnie Walker MBE This man is one of the most loved voices in broadcasting. His chequered history in the public domain is well documented but many may not know it began with an off-the-cuff remark made to him by a stranger at the Navigation Inn pub in Wootton Wawen.

Johnnie’s beginnings were in the maternity home opposite Patrick Motors on the Warwick Road (now an apartment building).

The family home was in Heaton Road and his name then was Peter Waters Dingley.

He remembers school day afternoons spent in Solihull centre with his friends, getting up to mischief and chatting up girls. School Prefects were sent into town to spy and take the names of boys seen without their blazers - Johnnie was often unremorsefully hauled up in front of the school assembly

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the following morning to have corporal punishment administered by the Head Boy. He says, “I’d get home and immediately go and change into my spearmint pink and green striped drainpipe jeans, brothel creepers and bootlace tie and head straight to the Barley Mow or the new parade of shops where Frestons Restaurant was and stroll up and down with my mates finding out where parties were happening.”

One day he came home from school only to find that his mum had chucked out all his

sartorial best. A disgusted Mrs Dingley was not having a teddy boy for her son. The appalled dismay he felt then has never diminished.

At 18 years old he was given a job at Patrick Motors, thanks to his dad, as a mechanic and then a salesman. During this time he started DJ-ing in the evenings.

Johnnie never had any money because he spent his DJ earnings in a record shop in Shirley on the Stratford Road run by a lady who stocked great records from the States. He’d be in there for hours on a Saturday listening to vinyl.

On his 21st birthday Johnnie remembers looking out of the showroom windows of Patrick Motors at the building just up the road where he’d been born but had become an old age home and thinking “Here I am stuck in car sales, living back at home… I could end up dying in the same place I was born in, when there’s a big world out there and I’ve got to get out and find it”. Shortly after, fed up with Johnnie coming in late, half asleep with a hangover, his boss gave him an ultimatum.

That evening, working at The Navigation Inn as he did every Friday night (it was always packed as people came from miles to listen to the great R&B and soul scene) a stranger said he’d seen a story in the Daily Mirror about a pirate station on a ship called

“Radio England” and suggested Johnnie try for a job there. The rest is history.

In 2003 Johnnie was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer. Together with his wonderful wife - who herself is recovering from breast cancer, they are now the patrons of Carers UK. Johnny says, “for anyone suffering from cancer, it’s very important to remember in the middle of treatment when you’re feeling the lowest, that you will get better and be healthy again. It’s easy to forget that fact.”

Marie Curie West Midlands is another charity Johnnie is close to. He’s followed the progress of the new premises in Solihull and is most grateful to the help they gave his father.

For his millions of followers - we can be thankful to the stranger whose name Johnnie never knew - telling him about Radio England that Friday evening in Wootton Wawen and for the manager at Patrick Motors for giving Johnnie Walker MBE the ultimatum that changed his life.

You can read the extended version of this article on our website: www.swanpublishing.org

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Bring your home to life this Autumn

Come and visit our extended showroom featuring an impressive selection of windows, shutters and doors including: • Four new windows including a bay window featuring signature stained glass • Four new doors including a timber stable door, a first for our showroom

• Brand new Aluminium bi-folding doors • A Luxaflex stand showcasing various window dressing and shutter designs

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What's on Seasonal Markets & Fairs

JD Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival Showcasing 50 different ales from around the world.

Where: 32-34 Station Rd, Solihull.

When: 16 Oct - 8 Nov Info: www.jd wetherspoon.co.uk

Knowle Christmas Fair Showcasing the very best of the region’s craftspeople and artisans. Visit Santa and give him your Christmas lists!

Where: St.John’s Hall, Knowle Village.

When: 14 Nov, 9am-5.30pm Info: www.knowlechristmas fair.weebly.com

The Big Taste Food & Beer Festival Explore the taste of Solihull’s finest restaurants, and locally crafted beers and ales.

Where: Mell Square, Solihull When: 3, 4 Oct Info: 0121 285 1370

Solihull Farmers’ Market Sample the best of locally sourced food and produce from within a 30 mile radius of Solihull.

Where: High Street, Solihull When: 5 Oct, 6 Nov Info: www.solihull. gov.uk/events

A snapshot of what’s on around Solihull, Knowle & Dorridge in October & November

Bentley Heath Country Market

Animal Victoria Cross

A delicious afternoon tea Local produce on your followed by a fascinating doorstep. talk from Shropshire author, Where: Village Hall, Widney Peter Hawthorne, who will Rd, B93 9BQ relate the acts of bravery by When: Every Friday, animals who were awarded 9.30am-11.30am the Dickin Medal - the animal Info: www.bhcountry equivalent of the Victoria market.com Cross. Funds raised will go to Age UK Solihull.

Where: Hogarth’s Slip into Slippers for in Dorridge Age UK Solihull When: 14 Nov, 1pm-3pm Celebrate and raise funds to Info: 0121 704 3361 / help older people in Solihull. events@ageuksolihull.org.uk Wear your favourite or wackiest slippers, prizes for Variety Show An evening of comedy and the best pair!

Where: Solihull Chamber of music plus surprise special guest to be announced.

Commerce Where: Wythall When: 1 Oct, 9am-11am Info: www.eventbrite.co.uk Institute, B47 6JL When: 14 Nov, 7pm Quiz n Chips Info: 0121 779 6707 The Shirley Community Association are holding a Fun Quiz (teams of four persons) The Snow Queen by with a fish and chips supper. Ballet Theatre UK Where: The Shirley Centre, A beautiful retelling of this 274 Stratford Road classic ballet performed When: 21 Nov,

by Ballet Theatre UK. 7.30pm onwards Where: Solihull Info: 0121 250 5005 Arts Complex

Charity Events

Festive Events

The Big Tribute Night Out Raising funds for St. James School, featuring tribute acts for Michael Jackson, UB40, Elvis Presley, Duran Duran and Alanis Morissette.

Where: Solihull Land Rover Sports & Social Club, 6 Billsmore Green, Solhill.

When: 10 Oct Info: 07857 208 759

When: 27 Oct, 2.30pm, 7.30pm Info: 0121 704 6962

Wicked Workshop and Terror Trail Follow the spooky terror trail around the park if you are brave enough, then take part in a creepy craft activity and wear your most frightening halloween costume for a chance to win

the fancy dress competition!

Where: Elmdon Park, B92 9EY When: 28 Oct 11am-1pm Info: www.solihull. gov.uk/events

Solihull Round Table Fireworks Display This popular charity fundraising event, has achieved increasing success over the past few years. It relies on public support to raise money for local charities, so go along!

Where: Tudor Grange Park, B91 3LU When: Nov 7, 5.30pm onwards Info: www.roundtable fireworks.co.uk

Haunting Halloween Are you scared of the dark?

There are creatures and monsters that could jump out at any time, and resident witch, Smelly Nelly, will be lurking about! Come along in your most frightening fancy dress for a chance to win the fancy dress competition.

Pre-booking essential.

Where: Brueton Park When: 31 Oct, from 5.30pm Info: 0121 704 8000

Creative Groups

The Knowle Society Talk on The Art of a Master Thatcher by David Wood Where: Knowle Village Hall When: 16 Nov, 8.00pm Info: peterjohnson@ knowlesociety.org.uk

To list your event near Solihull, Knowle or Dorridge FREE email info@swanpublishing.org 11

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Advertising enquiries: 689 0432 | info@swanpublishing.org | www.swanpublishing.org

The Finesse £10,000 window giveaway Three community buildings in south Birmingham are in with a chance to have a £10,000 window makeover for free thanks to a local window company with a big heart.

The three buildings are Rowheath Pavillion, Birmingham Samaritans and Woodcock Hill Primary School and the winner will be the one who received the most votes via Finesse Windows’ Facebook page during August and September. You can see more information about each cause a www.finesse-windows.co.uk/theletterbox/ finesse-worthy-cause-finalists Finesse Managing Director Russell Bridge said: “As a family business we feel strongly that all companies should aim to give back to their local communities wherever possible - after all, as a long established ‘local company’ we wouldn’t exist without our local community.

“We recently decided that it would be a great idea to offer our help to a local ‘worthy cause’. There are so many fantastic groups in our area that need and deserve our support. In May 2015 we started this latest project by enlisting the help of our fantastic customers to nominate and select three

excellent causes that felt they could benefit the most from having new windows installed.

“In October we will count the votes and announce the winner - with the work to commence during the Winter. We would like to thank the hundreds of voters for their votes and kind words of support.

“Since we began trading in 1981 we have always tried to help out wherever we can.

This philosophy is evident in simple things we do every day but also in a couple of the bigger projects we have undertaken in recent years. These include raising over £2,500 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association and installing over £12,000 of windows for a local family whose son is suffering with Leukaemia. You can read about these at: www.finesse-windows.co.uk/theletterbox/ window-donation-to-warm-the-heart/.”

Finesse Windows plan to replicate their ‘Worthy Cause’ project on an annual basis. If you know a community organisation who deserve a nomination for their ‘Worthy Cause 2016’ project then please let them know via their Facebook page.

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Humans of Solihull Camilla Wood - Partnership Manager of The Marie Curie Hospice, West Midlands Camilla Wood, the hospice’s new Partnership Manager travels daily from her home in Stourbridge to take on the challenge of keeping funds - the lifeblood at the heart of the hospice - running smoothly by finding businesses prepared to donate to ensure the continuation of Marie Curie care in this area.

She achieved an Honours Degree in Business and Psychology and has recently completed a qualification for the Chartered Institute of Marketing. But what was it that made her decide to take on this onerous task… asking for money?

In 2012 she ran the Birmingham Half Marathon, and from that point was determined to help others by raising money and volunteering.

“It was circumstances in life that brought me to the hospice and I believe if you keep your head down and work hard, your path will take you to where you should be”.

Camilla feels “privileged coming into contact with so many fantastic people, whether it be staff or patients”. Gratification comes from knowing the results of her

work has a genuine benefit for those with a terminal illness and their families.

“A lady came into the hospice and in conversation with a nurse, mentioned she had never tasted champagne. The nurses found the funds to buy a bottle and treat her. They go the extra mile to make a difference. It’s the little things in life that mean so much to people and if I can help to provide an environment that offers this, then the job is being done well”.

Camilla’s role not only involves working with local companies to raise funds. She works alongside the hospice Community Fundraising team and the volunteers essential and valuable roles organising events, promoting and raising vital funds locally.

“The demand for our services is constantly growing”, says Camilla, “and we need to be in a position to cope with increasing costs in nursing, to ensure we can care for more people affected by terminal illness”.

A worthy Human of Solihull working to keep this wonderful facility running to the value of us all.

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Saving Lives

Terry Flower and Fast Aid volunteer, photograph by Steve Evans of Seven Star Photography

Have you heard of the Fast Aid Responders? A valuable force of volunteers who respond to medical 999 calls and save lives.

The most common greeting a Fast Aider will hear when they reach the scene of emergency is “….you were fast”. And that’s because they live amongst us, in Solihull.

You might expect the first help to arrive to be an ambulance. However, in our area, a group of seven specially trained volunteers, Community First Responders (CFRs), are on hand to get to the scene and commence life saving treatment, begin clinical care, provide reassurance to the patient and relatives and start patient observations to brief the ambulance crew who take charge when they arrive. Speed, speed, speed - that’s what counts when a life is in danger.

Fast Aid staff give up their time for no financial reward even though they also take on great responsibility and bring their skill and experience to the scene. Terry Flower has been a CFR based in Dorridge for 6 years.

He explained, “CFRs are unpaid volunteers, trained by West Midlands Ambulance Service to a nationally recognised medical standard”.

In the last 12 months, Terry and his colleagues from Fast Aid gave nearly 3,500 voluntary hours and attended over 780 emergencies.

He recalls a particular alert to Dorridge Cricket Club where a player had collapsed. Terry was on the scene in 3 minutes. The patient was in cardiac arrest and had stopped breathing.

After three shocks from the defibrillator, heart rhythm was restored. What was particularly remarkable was that the patient was only 19 years old. Because of the speed of treatment, he went on to make a full recovery.

They all carry defibrillators that function perfectly but have now been superseded by the manufacturers so Fast Aid have launched an appeal to upgrade each one at a cost of £35,000. Although donations have come from clubs and community groups they still have a long way to go.

If you can help with a donation - it doesn’t matter how small, everything is acknowledged - you can do so on the FastAid website; www.fastaid.org.uk click on Birmingham & Solihull.

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Vintage Solihull The butchers’ shop stood in the High Street next to The Manor House.

Through the archway would have been for carts delivering animal carcasses or perhaps there was also an abattoir. If you look closely you might recognise it - this is now an entrance into Touchwood Mall.

Photograph by John Arnold

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Advertising enquiries: 689 0432 | info@swanpublishing.org | www.swanpublishing.org

Look through our windows SHOWROOM NOW OPEN At Finesse we care about making exceptional windows, doors and conservatories that will transform your home. Visit our new showroom and you’ll see that commitment to quality for yourself, together with the wide range of styles and colours that make our products so different. No appointment necessary.

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Only Fools and Horses (don’t make wills) The news that Roger Lloyd Pack, Trigger in Only Fools and Horse, died without leaving a will and has thus left his family potentially facing a six figure Inheritance Tax bill, reminds us all the cost of not making a will is greatly higher than the cost of making one.

“A simple will could have avoided all of the potential tax due in his estate” comments Andrew Hasnip, Head of Private Client at The Wilkes Partnership. He continues, “The family now appear to be left with a choice of paying the tax or having to take action to avoid or minimise it. Either route will doubtless be more expensive than the cost of making a will. This also assumes everybody will be in agreement as to any potential course of action.”

So what could Roger have done? Andrew advises: “A simple will leaving all his estate to his wife absolutely or under a life interest trust would have avoided all the tax. If he had wished to make some immediate provision for his children, legacies of up to £325,000 could have been left to them. Apparently his estate was over £1.4m so it would appear there is scope for that to have been done.”

To avoid the tax now the family would need to agree to a variation of the rules of intestacy, which detail how a person’s estate passes when they do not make a will. This is not without its pitfalls as Andrew observes: “You can only vary what has been left to you, so if

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one of the children decides they want to keep their share under his intestacy no one can force them to do otherwise. There will also be the government’s review of deeds of variation due out next month to see how far or if these can be used in the future. Much better to avoid the need for them altogether by having a properly drafted will.”

If you would like any assistance in relation to making a Will, please contact the Partner, Andrew Hasnip or the Will and Probate Team on 0121 733 8000.

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Entries must be received by 21st October 2015

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A Selection of Clubs & Societies in and around Solihull Arden Bridge Club 0121 745 1389 Arden Tennis, Squash, Gym & Social Club 0121 704 9451 www.solihullarden.co.uk Dorridge Flower Club: 01926 484598 www.southmidlandsnafas.org.uk/dorridge Knowle Camera Club www.knowlecameraclub.co.uk Knowle & Dorridge Ladies Circle wwwladiescircle.co.uk melaniemeadwell@hotmail.co.uk Knowle & Dorridge Lions 08458 335894 www.knowleanddorridgelions.com Knowle Flower Club 01564 775899 Knowle Probus Club 01527 529363 www.knowleprobus.org.uk member@wiles38.freeserve.co.uk Knowle and Dorridge Racquets Club www.knowleanddorridgeracquets.co.uk Knowle Women's Institute Mrs Pat Bedward 01564 770485 mbpbknowle@talktalk.net Old Silhillians Rifle and Pistol Club www.oldsilhilliansrifleclub.org.uk Lee Elvins, Chairman 07824 628887 Silhill Bridge Club 01564 782232 www.bridgewebs.com/silhill Silhill Morris Dancers www.silhillmorris.weebly. com 01564 778270 diplock912@virginmedia.com Solihull (Historic) Athletics Club www.solihullathletics.co.uk Solihull Archaeological Group 0121 783 8517 www.sites.google.com/site/solihullarchaeology Solihull Blossomfield Townswoman's Guild 0121 705 7226 Catherine de Barnes Art Society of Arts patricia.ritchie@mypostoffice.co.uk Solihull Central Badminton Club Tel: 01564 777495 stevearms@gmail.com Solihull Central University of the Third Age U3A sol.centralu3a@gmail.com Solihull Canoe Club 0843 289 5272 Solihull Chandos Choir www.solihull chandoschoir.org CYCLE Solihull Provides routes on minor rds; organises free rides w/leader & back marker. www.cyclesolihull.org.uk Solihull Cycling Club secretary@solihullcc.org.uk Solihull & District Orchid Society 01295 788159 LaeliaM@aol.com

Solihull & District, Soroptimist International Club sisolihull@yahoo.co.uk www.si-solihull.org.uk Solihull Flower Club www.southmidlandsnafas.org/solihull Solihull Indoor Bowls Club 0121 709 2233 www.solihullindoorbowlsclub.co.uk Solihull Karate & Self Defence Club www.TheEKO.eu Solihull Ladies Probus 0121 705 3118 mollywindle42@me.com Solihull Ladies Football Club www.solihullladiesfc.co.uk Solihull Lions Club 0845 300 197 www.solihulllionsclub.org.uk Solihull Local History Circle 0121 706 2345 www.solh.org.uk heathermolliec@yahoo.co.uk Solihull Model Flying Club www.smfc.co.uk 0121 705 7459 Solihull Mountaineering Club 0121 744 1468 or 07776 492009 Solihull Open Gardens www.solihullsopengardens.com Solihull Petanque at Blossomfield Club www.blossomfieldclub.co.uk/solihull_club_de_ petanque : Barry Cox 01564 730151 Solihull Photographic Society www.solihullphotographicsociety.com Solihull Society of Arts Recorded Music Circle 0121 705 1041 Solihull Riding Club 01564 770180 Solihull Rotary Club at West Midlands Bridge Club www.1060.org.uk/solihull RSPB Solihull Group www.rspb.org.uk/groups/solihull Solihull Singing For Pleasure 0121 704 4006 Solihull Speakers Club www.solihullspeakers.co.uk.

Mtgs held at Downing Hall, Knowle.

Solihull Society of Arts - Art Section 0121 706 5042/4379 Solihull Swimming Club www.solihullswimmingclub.co.uk Solihull Symphony Orchestra www.solihullsymphony.org.uk 0121 745 5548 Solihull Twinning Association Heather Clarke 015644 702976 Solihull Water Polo Club www.solihullswimmingclub.co.uk/waterpolo Solihull Women's Institute 0121 705 1285

If you know of a club or group that is not listed here but should be, please get in touch to let us know: juliaparsons@swanpublishing.org 23

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Where to eat

A guide to the best places to eat in and around Solihull

The Agrabad Finest Balti Restaurant 884 Old Lode Lane Solihull, B92 8LW

Khana Peena Bangla Cuisine 1039 Stratford Road, Hall Green, B28 8AS

0121 743 7883

0121 777 3961

Beeches Bar & Grill Hampton in Arden, B92 0AH

The King’s Arms 2110 Warwick Rd Knowle Canalside.

01675 442 277

Bella Venezia Italian Knowle B93 0JU

01564 771 177

Knowle Indian Brasserie B93 0LY

01564 779806

01564 776 453

The Farm British Shelly Farm off Monkspath B90 4EH

The Lazy Cow Steakhouse Warwick Rd, Solihull, B91 3DA

0121 711 7273

The Finest Catch Shirley A family Fish & Chips Restaurant 1097 Stratford Road Solihull, B90 4EB 0121 745 1755

Happy Heart Cafe 26 Richmond Road, Olton, B92 7RP 0121 706 8674

Some organic, local produce, live events Janito British Continental Fusion Knowle, B93 0JU 01564 779 802

01564 785364

Pavarotti Italian Solihull Ice Rink, B92 8JN 0121 743 3222

The Punchbowl Lapworth, B94 6HR 01564 784 564 Red House British Carvery Hermitage Rd Sollihull B91 2LP 0121 711 8856

0121 704 1567

The Little Owl Country Pub Bickenhill Parkway B401QA

Thai Brasserie 52 Station Road, B91 3RX 0121 704 0353

0121 781 0331

Loch Fyne Seafood Knowle B93 0JU 01564 732 2750

The Forest Restaurant At The Forest Hotel 25 Station Approach, Dorridge, Solihull, B93 8JA 01564 772 120 2 Rosetttes

The Orange Tree Chadwick End B93 0BN

Luna Rosa Spanish/Italian Knowle, B93 0LE 01564 739 395

The Malt Shovel at Barston B92 0JP

The Thai Village Restaurant High Street Knowle B93 0LF 01564 771 595

The White Lion Inn Hampton in Arden B92 0AA 01564 444 2833

Wagamama Japanese Touchwood B91 3GS 0121 711 7075

01675 443 223

Metro Bar & Grill Warwick Rd, B91 3DX 0121 705 9495

Minh’s Chinese 8 Station Road, Knowle, B93 8HH 01564 779929

Zengz Asian Vegetarian Old Lode Lane, B92 8JE 0121 722 2099

ZiZi Italian Poplar Rd B91 3AB 0121 704 5030

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photograph by www.sevenstarphotography.co.uk

A Remarkable Silhillian’s iron will This is an amazing story, inspirational and humbling of what humans can achieve if they refuse to accept the cards they’ve been dealt by turning a rubbish hand into a winning one.

Richard, now 45 years old, grew up in Solihull and was educated at Kingshurst Comprehensive. A keen footballer until his late twenties, like many with commitments and a family, exercise for pleasure took a back seat and he became more a spectator.

Since a lad he’d wanted to design cars so took an apprenticeship with JLR which lasted for 10 years learning to be an engineering designer. This took him on to working for Volvo for 3 years in Holland and now his work is freelance as a consultant.

A few years ago he watched a TV programme on a triathlon. Noticing his interest, his wife Kim said “you’d never be able to do anything like that” and with these sceptical words ringing in his ears, Richard decided to prove her wrong. The first event he competed in and finished, was The London Triathlon.

Buffed with his success he entered himself

26

into the Iron Man challenge - which takes a year to prepare for. It sells out to the first 1,000 applicants within minutes of opening.

In October 2012 he completed the challenge which took place in Barcelona. 3.8km (2.5miles) swim in The Mediterranean Sea followed immediately with a 180km (112 miles) bike race finishing with a 42km (26.2 mile) run - nonstop and all in 30 degree heat, against 1000 other contestants from all over the world.

Richard says, “by the time I was doing the running part, I was struggling. Every part of my body hurt, the pain was indescribable and I didn’t think I’d be able to see it through”. But he did. In 12.5 hours - 16 hours being the maximum allowed. Richard found the whole challenge and experience stretched his endurance to the maximum but at the end, he was elated and proud enough to enter again for the next one.

This time his wife Kim decided she was going to join him even though she could barely ride a bike or do more than a couple of lengths of Tudor Grange pool and was close to her 50th birthday.

However, in mid training, Richard’s father was taken suddenly into hospital and whilst visiting him there, Richard coughed up blood.

After this happened a few times, an X-Ray uncovered a tumour on his lungs. Enduring a lengthy operation to remove one lung and subsequent infections, recovery took months. His cancer consultant expressed doubt at Richard’s ability to compete the Iron Man challenge but didn’t discourage him.

The Iron Man organisers agreed to defer his entry to the following year. Richard says, “when I sat on the exercise bike in the garage for the first time, chest drains still in place, I could barely find the breath or strength to pedal for a couple of minutes”.

Slowly stamina and endurance were built until he felt he was back on form.

A year to the day from Richard’s operation, amazingly he and Kim competed the half Iron Man Challenge in Majorca to the delight and incredulity of his medical consultant. More challenges followed. Their final race together was again in Barcelona last October, 2014 and although slower, Richard’s determination kept him going and this time he loved every minute.

It is pure mental tenacity and a refusal to accept defeat - not recognising it as an option - that has taken this wonderful couple through their challenges together. Richard’s efforts were recognised by The Iron Man organisation when he was given a Bronze Award which is only for the top 10% in the world!

Be inspired and do something amazing!

You can read the extended version of this article on our website:

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photograph by www.sevenstarphotography.co.uk

Music to your ears Each year scores of local musicians perform and compete in a wonderful feature of Solihull’s art calendar - Solihull Competitive Music Festival, organised by Solihull Rotary Club with the help of sponsors Touchwood and Nicholas Lefèvre & Co. Our congratulations go to the winner of this year’s evening Grand Final Award Show held on 19th September, 11 year old Megan Doyle.

This annual event has become a honey pot of aspiring musicians and anyone who enjoys singing.

The competition was initially held at Langley School with less than 50 entrants.

Subsequently, it moved to Alderbrook School’s excellent performing facilities at The Edge and grows in popularity and recognition each year.

This year, there were over 200 entries, mainly from Solihull but also from surrounding areas.

The festival was originally created by Keith Willies as part of the Solihull Festival, and is organised by Solihull Rotary Club and other volunteers. There are classes

28

throughout the day for participants of all ages and grades, covering Piano, Strings, Wind Instruments, Percussion, Duets, Vocal (including Choirs) and Ensemble.

All participants receive a certificate to say they’ve taken part and the winner of each class receives a trophy at the Grand Concert of Class Winners which this year was delightfully compered by Stephen Perrins MA. It showcased performances by the winners of all the many individual classes, from which the adjudicators selected the Solihull Musician of the Year.

The performer winning this title, Megan Doyle, received a cup known as The Helen Willies Trophy and a bursary to further her musical studies.

The Gate to Nowhere

The haunted house of Solihull A gamekeeper’s cottage from a historic estate - there’s got to be a ghost, hasn’t there?

Well, yes. In Solihull too - on the old Warwick Road where The Midland Red bus used to stop before the bypass was built and where the current occupier, Mrs Jacqui Hunt now lives.

Mrs Hunt raised her children in this lovely home and over the years the ghost (who they think was the gamekeeper for Malvern Hall) appeared, sighted by previous occupants of the cottage as well as her own family.

One particular instance happened late at night when her son David was 12 years old. He woke feeling intensely cold but clammy. His room was icy and when he opened his eyes, he saw a small man in his room, dressed in button gaiters (which he clearly recalled even though he’d never seen anything like that on anyone before) together with a Jack Russell type dog. The man or apparition walked through the new, recently erected partition wall put up to divide the original open space.

The ghost has never caused trouble and Mrs Hunt says “whenever there are any

The haunted house of Solihull

The ghost often appears at the top of this staircase.

Photograph by www.sevenstar photography. co.uk

additions or alterations he will show up to inspect them and make his presence felt.”

Forty years ago, Mrs Hunt, her husband and young children moved into the cottage originally two homes and built sometime in the late seventeenth century. Next to the house is the original police station and its other neighbour is Soane’s Gate - so called after the architect Sir John Soane.

The Gate was built as a barn in 1798 as an alternative entrance to the tree lined driveway now Brueton Avenue. It comprised a small stable with room for a 4-horse coach, the horses, an office, hay loft and a workroom for repairing coaches. It is nicknamed Gateway to Nowhere as the rest of the route to Malvern Hall was never constructed.

“The Wilderness” (now known as “The Cottage”) was built using sturdy ship’s oak beams from old galleons stored in the Bristol shipyards and it is thought was built to house the coachman, the groom and their families employed by the owners of Malvern Hall.

29

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photography by: www.sevenstarphotograpy.co.uk

S Kate with injured baby bat.

Kate Sharma Dorridge’s engaging conservationist Conservation has unsociable hours and the financial rewards are few as passion can be exploited - which happens in many professions, I know.

Sometimes it is tedious and boring - ever cut a table full of fruit into exact 5mm cubes?

It can also be mind-bendingly frustrating - like when the free ranging monkey won’t go to bed and you whistle and cajole till late into the night, just to get back up a few hours later to start again with throat sore, panicking that it was too cold for them, only to find they are already in their nest box looking outrageously smug.

Or when, despite photographs, verbal instruction and pointing, you return to find a bat box installed into the fabric of a wall…upside down.

Aaah. But the rewards, the rewards. Astounding!

You will meet extraordinary people, see things you will never imagine, fight unflinchingly for the most basic of amenities. But then, when you watch your precious charges take their first steps (or flight

or hop or slither or flop) or see that the mitigation measures you created were successful or watch Pipistrelles circle curiously around you, wondering who this intruder into their night-time world is, like snowflakes around a Disney princess, you will know it was worth everything.

Kate Sharma

Kate Sharma’s story ends here but her work continues with all the passion and love she has written about and shared which we hope you’ve enjoyed reading.

Becoming an ecologist is a worthwhile career and one to consider if you are about to choose your GCSE or A levels subjects.

If Kate can do it….you can.

31

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Doctor Louise Newson

photography by: www.sevenstarphotography.co.uk

When is a Cold the Flu? Probably one of the most frequent reasons I see a patient in my surgery is for help and advice with cold symptoms. As there is much confusion understanding the difference between a cold and flu, I thought I’d explain this.

Colds and flu are caused by viruses, which can only be seen under a microscope and need a host to reproduce - for example a person, animal or plant.

Whereas bacteria can survive on their own and they cause different infections to viruses.

There are hundreds of cold viruses. You may feel generally unwell, tired, have a fever, sore throat, hoarseness or a cough, dulled hearing or mild earache. A cold usually lasts for up to two weeks.

Flu symptoms may resemble a cold but are usually much more severe. You may have a high fever, feel extremely tired and ache all over. Flu can develop into more serious conditions, such as pneumonia so if symptoms get worse after six days - see your doctor straightaway.

There is no magic cure for viruses! Antibiotics do not kill viruses, so are of no use for common colds or flu. However, our body’s wonderful immune system, given the chance to fight, can usually beat these viruses.

It is important to drink plenty, but, avoid alcohol which increases dehydration. Ibuprofen or

paracetamol can help symptoms. People at an increased risk from flu, for example those with diabetes or asthma, are given a jab every year in the autumn. The vaccine does not prevent people from getting other viruses and it is not possible to be immunised against colds.

If you get a viral infection, washing hands and simple rules of hygiene can prevent reinfection and passing it on to others. My best advice? Get plenty of rest.

Dr Louise Newson

Dr Louise R Newson is a part-

time GP in Solihull and has written medical books including training courses and knowledge updates for GPs. Additionally she is an editor of and writer for many medical publications

louise.newson@me.com 33

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Breast Friends Going through treatment for breast cancer can be a lonely place, but there is help out there.

Breast Friends Solihull is a voluntary support group organised by ladies who have all experienced breast cancer offering friendship, emotional support, practical help and information.

Meetings are held once a month at a central Solihull location: The West Midlands Bridge Club, 909 Warwick Road, B91 3EP, and often there is an interesting and informative talk given by a medical professional.

Raising awareness of breast cancer symptoms and encouraging those who may be worried to seek professional medical advice without delay, is important to them.

Informally chatting with other members over coffee and cake are a part of these enjoyable evenings and many people bring a female friend or relative along with them.

Breast Friends receives support from surgeons, doctors and nurses who give up their valuable time to speak at their meetings and bring up-todate information on developments in treatment.

Call 0800 1313 500 for further information.

Breast Friends Solihull welcomes NHS and private sector patients, diagnosed with breast cancer.

35

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A man remembered Have you lived in Solihull for more than 20 years? If so you will more than likely have met John Arnold. He and his wife Anne were the people to come to for photo developing, buying cameras or just to have a good old chin wag.

In 1952 John set up a photographic department in Harrisons Opticians, Solihull High Street.

Opposite their shop was Woolworths with a wooden floor. Anne recalls asking the manageress to let her know when the next consignment of stockings came in. They cost the princely sum of 10/- and were always in demand due to shortages John eventually opened his own premises on the High St and Solihull Cameras opened - the only photographic shop in the area remaining an integral part of life in the town for 25 years.

John was a central figure in Solihull’s community.

He was an independent retailer who knew his stuff - passionate and skilled on his subject with time for everybody to chat and pass the time of day.

Society and John was a member of Rotary Club of Solihull for more than 40 years.

John’s photographs, many of which were taken for Solihull Council, have been donated to the library for preservation and viewing. A fascinating record of Solihull past - and a source of great interest as they demonstrate the reality of the huge changes throughout the decades of the town we enjoy living in today.

We will be featuring John Arnold’s photos of Solihull in our forthcoming issues and are grateful to Anne for allowing us access to these treasured records of Solihull history.

People would come to buy their cameras and for instruction as well as help rescuing what could have been the un-rescue-able.

When John and Anne retired in 1990, digital was just appearing. The new technology was to change the face of the photographic industry.

“Photography was a complex art form, more so then than today”, says Anne “and owning a camera was quite a deal”. The Arnold couple were founding members of the Solihull Cine

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