The Village #208 December 2019 by The Village

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TheVillage

Issue 208 December 2019

Bringing you village life for more than 20 years

Now open in barnt green OPENING OFFEr:

They Want Your Vote! Pages 10–11

Villages Remember Page 15

Editor: Sally Oldaker

Christmas Special Pages 26–32

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Garden Giving Pages 52–53

Nature in Art Page 55

Cover: A selection of faces and places featured in The Village during the past year.

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Village News

WE WILL REMEMBER: Pupils from Alvechurch Middle School lay crosses at the war memorial on the village green during the Remembrance Day service, watched

by dignitaries including parish chairman Marc Worrall and district councillors Kate Van Der Plank and Annette English. More Remembrance pictures on Page 15

Vote YES to your Plan

ickey & Blackwell and Photo/ Keith Woolford Cofton Hackett parish councillors are encouraging all residents to say “Yes” to their Neighbourhood Development Plan in a referendum on Thursday December 12. If it is accepted by more than 50 per cent of voters, the Plan will be dents about where new houses adopted as an essenshould be built,” says Lickey & tial guide for planning Blackwell parish councillor Nick officers, developers and Forknell, chair of the steering group councillors in Bromsgrove – which has produced the new Plan. as Alvechurch’s was earlier this year. The aim of the Plans was to ensure Five parish councillors and five that homes were built in the right residents, guided by a planning places and to a high standard of consultant and a local planning design and energy efficiency, while officer, worked as a steering group areas valued by residents were profor six years to produce the Plan and tected for all to enjoy. hundreds of residents contributed to “Both Alvechurch and Lickey & consultations and attended events Blackwell parish councils already have where their views were heard and Village Design Statements, which noted. were accepted as statutory guidance “Alvechurch’s Plan is already provdocuments some years ago and are ing its worth, with planning decisions taking into account the wishes of resi- referred to in planning applications

and decisions,” adds Coun Forknell. “The new Plans are an even more valuable aid to better, and hopefully less contentious, decision-making.” Those in the parishes should have received a polling card (different from the one for the General Election on the same date!) and can vote on the referendum at the Trinity Centre in Lickey, The Wheel in Blackwell, Cofton Hackett Village Hall or St Luke’s Centre in Marlbrook. “The Plan can be read online at www.lickeyandblackwellpc.org or www.bromsgrove.gov.uk and it really is worth making the effort before voting,” adds Lisa Winterbourn, Lickey & Blackwell’s parish clerk, who has put in many hours of work on the project. “The end result is a People’s Plan of which the parishes can be proud,” says Coun Forknell. “Now the message is ‘Come and vote YES to your own Neighbourhood Plan on December 12!”

The Village

December 2019

Village News

Gates-gate escalates PUBLIC PATH ONLY AN ‘ASPIRATION’, SAYS DEVELOPER

The DISPUTE over the locked gates blocking public access through a new village housing estate has escalated and could end up going to the Local Government Ombudsman. Barnt Green parish councillors heard that Cala Homes had “quietly shown” the gates “with no reference to them” on layout plans for the Foxhills estate in the village. Despite Cala being told by Bromsgrove planning officers to remove the gates from the plans, they were still shown when further changes were submitted under a “non material amendment plan” and the gates were “inadvertently approved”. This was revealed in an email to district and parish councillor Charlie Hotham from Bromsgrove District Council planning department and circulated at the parish council meeting. Coun Hotham told councillors: “Clearly from this we have all been completely let down by the planning department.” He added: “They [Cala] have tried it once and it has not got through and so they have tried it again and it has not been spotted. “It is a material change to say ‘we are going to put gates up on 46 per cent of public open space and block

The code-locked gate where the footpath meets Cherry Hill Road. a public right of way’. “I am going to raise this with Ruth Bamford [head of planning at Bromsgrove] ASAP. “I think that if it has been rejected once by a planning officer then it should have been made very, very clear at the second time that this clearly was a material amendment.” Coun Hotham told parish councillors: “The way I see this going is if this isn’t rectified, then there will be some individuals who are materially affected by this who do not have access. If you do not have access to public open space then you are being disadvantaged by the actions or inac-

tions of Bromsgrove District Council and if they do not do anything about it then we go to the ombudsman.” The Village has since seen a statement from Cala Homes to the planners, saying that they are “of the view that the electric gates have been shown on drawings, subjected to the assessment of the planning department and approved”. They also say that because Cala called the public open space a “landscaped area” on the approved non material amendment plan, the land does not now need to be available “for recreational use for the entire development”. As for the public footpath, enabling villagers to walk from central Barnt Green, through the estate to Cherry Hill Road and the Lickey Hills Country Park beyond, the Cala statement says it was “an aspiration” of Bromsgrove District Council for the footpath to be public. Coun Hotham, referring to just one email, in May 2018 – in which the planning department told Cala to stop referring to the footpath as “private access when it is meant to be a public route” – told The Village: “I think a little more than an aspiration!” The Village View: Page 17

Will Foxlydiate homes lift pressure? Plans for more than 2,500 homes have been approved, mainly on former Bromsgrove Green Belt land at the border with Redditch. But planners have so far failed to confirm this will lift pressure to build on the Green Belt fields around our villages, parish councillors heard. The land, on the Bromsgrove side of Foxlydiate Lane, was initially released to help Redditch to meet its housing target of around 6,500 new homes by 2030. Since then, the national system for calculating housebuilding need has changed, meaning Redditch’s target is likely to be almost 3,000 homes lower. Village councillors say this means the 2,560 homes agreed for Foxlydiate should now be included in Bro-

The Village

December 2019

msgrove’s housing land supply figures. Bromsgrove district and Alvechurch parish councillor Sue Baxter told the parish council: “We agreed the housing for Foxlydiate towards Redditch and now Bromsgrove doesn’t have a five-year land supply and that leaves us exposed to developers.” Parish chairman Marc Worrall asked: “Can it be that this housing supply can be retrospectively counted towards Bromsgrove’s?” Coun Charlie Hotham replied: “We keep asking that question, but we do not get told that this will happen. It is not overspill, Redditch doesn’t need it and I am at a loss to understand how it was approved.” Village Views: Page 16

Village News

News in brief. . .

Beoley

Parish Council has agreed to “light up” Beoley village this Christmas by approving the purchase of festive lights.

After

residents and parish councillors expressed concerns about traffic on Greenhill in Blackwell, Highways is planning a survey to assess the scale of the problem.

Recent

heavy rain has highlighted the problems of flooding on Alcester Road. Beoley parish councillors are lobbying the county to address the issue.

A new

panel engineer has been appointed for Marlbrook Tip, but Lickey & Blackwell Parish Council has not yet seen a copy of his report. County councillor Kit Taylor said: “I wouldn’t hold your breath.”

Signs

pointing to the defibrillator at Blackwell Club will soon be installed by the parish council, while a new defibrillator has been installed at Tesco in Marlbrook.

New

film 7 Days, the story of Midlands marathon man “Blind Dave” Heeley, is now on Amazon Prime. It was filmed in and around the Lickey Hills by Cofton Hackett producer Nigel Davey and Hopwood directors Ian and Dominic Higgins. See full details at www.pixel revolutionfilms.com

Beoley

residents will be relieved to hear that the lights will be kept on in Watery Lane, after the parish council agreed to continue to fund the electricity supply to the only parish-owned lamppost.

The

30mph speed limit through Weatheroak Hill is not enforceable, county councillor Charlie Hotham told Alvechurch Parish Council. He said residents had been complaining about speeding traffic, but when the zone had been put in back in 2007 the police had not been part of the consultation and so would not enforce it.

The Village

December 2019

Post Office calls in, for two hours

A mobile post office is now visiting Alvechurch once a week after the closure of the village post office. Jon Bumphrey (above), the postmaster for Evesham who provides a mobile service to 17 other rural communities, will be parking in the car park of Alvechurch Sports & Social Club every Friday from 2–4pm. Most of the usual services are available via the van, which is accessible for those with disabilities – but parish councillors have asked the Post Office if the service can be increased. Chairman Marc Worrall told colleagues that the owners of Simply

Fresh, in whose premises it is hoped a post office could be accommodated, are “likely” to submit a further planning application, but he urged the Post Office to “think laterally” about an alternative. A Post Office statement said: “We are pleased to be able to reinstate a temporary mobile service while we continue to work towards a permanent solution.”

Station still waiting . . . Installation of the long-awaited lifts at Barnt Green railway station may have moved a step closer, parish councillors heard. Parish clerk Tracy Bodley said Network Rail project sponsor Richard Dugdale had been in touch after a meeting with the Department for Transport to say the “decision to design” the lifts had now been approved. He had, however, been warned to expect a challenge on costs. Coun Joe Nilsson said: “That sounds like, ‘we are going to do this,

but there is no way we are going to do this’.” But parish chairman Robert Cholmondeley said: “My understanding is there are hoops to go through but they will be built by the end of next year.” n Barnt Green parish councillors agreed they would go door knocking around the village between 2–4pm on November 28 and December 12 to raise awareness of the SmartWater project. The tally of households taking part so far was 96, with 300 being the target.

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Village Election

VILLAGERS GO TO T Your guide to the candidates hoping to be elected MP for

CONSERVATIVE Sajid Javid

LABOUR Rory Shannon

Sajid was elected as Bromsgrove’s MP in 2010. He’s served in the Culture, Business and Local Government and Housing departments before becoming Home Secretary and most recently Chancellor of the Exchequer. “I’ve had the privilege of being Bromsgrove MP for almost 10 years,” Sajid tells The Village. “I’ve had lots of interaction with constituents through surgeries, forums and correspondence, and I’ve got a good feel for the big issues.” He says that one of his main policies is a strong economy and plenty of jobs, so that people don’t feel they have to move away from the area for work. “Another important issue is support for local business – I hold jobs fairs every year and the last one was the biggest yet. It’s good to bring jobs to local people.” He also said he would focus on public services, fairer funding for Worcestershire schools, and policing – as well as investment in local infrastructure and reducing traffic congestion. “We need to work to find a balance, making sure there are enough new homes (especially for younger people so they don’t have to leave the area where they grew up), and to do that we need to invest in infrastructure. “As Housing Secretary I championed the Housing Infrastructure Fund, and doubled its size when I became Chancellor. If you take on new housing you should get new GPs and schools. We will continue to do that as long as we keep the economy strong. But it all needs to be paid for. “I’ve always believed in a strong local economy rather than taxing people more and more. The alternative is a Labour government – in fact, any vote other than Conservative is a vote for Corbyn. His plans will lead to economic crisis within months.” On the subject of Brexit, he says that if the Conservatives win a majority, Britain will leave with a deal. “There would be no prospect of a hard Brexit. If you want to ensure we leave with a deal, vote for us.” Sajid describes himself as a community champion, regardless of people’s politics, and says he responds to every letter individually. “I will keep doing what I can for the community. The people of Bromsgrove backed me time and time again – it all begins with the people of Bromsgrove.” sajid.javid.mp@parliament.uk www.sajidjavid.com

I was born in Bromsgrove, was educated in Bromsgrove and live here, in Bromsgrove. I am standing in this election because I am fearful for the future of Bromsgrove. I love my town but we deserve better. For years the Tory Party’s inability to manage the country’s finances has resulted in the loss of countless services and assets that our community depended upon. As a resident I am, like you, increasingly concerned about the traffic and air pollution problems facing Bromsgrove and I have worked hard with Labour councilors to campaign for a Western Relief Road to relive traffic through our community. I have also supported efforts to tackle the problems of car parking outside our local schools, which can only get worse if we continue to build housing without considering infrastructure. I am also concerned about the rise in speeding, anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime, all of which are a direct result of the reduction of front line police officers. For years I have been a passionate campaigner for our town and have already been instrumental in saving many services, such as the Wendron Centre. In times when central government spending is limited, and local councils look to make cuts, communities must come together to protect our vital services. I have already served Bromsgrove as a councillor and have an excellent track record in getting results for those I am elected to represent. If elected, I would demonstrate the same passion and commitment to the people of Bromsgrove. I would be your voice in the council chamber, protecting and improving our community. Some of Labour’s key pledges for Bromsgrove include increased funding for the NHS; a real living wage of £10 an hour; free school meals for all primary school children; keeping the Winter Fuel Allowance, free TV licences and bus passes for pensioners; a public vote on any Brexit deal; and a Green Industrial Revolution, making Britain the only G20 country on track to fulfil our obligations under the Paris Climate Agreement and transforming our economy. The election in Bromsgrove is a straight choice between the Conservatives and Labour. The Labour Party can beat the Tories here – no other candidate will be able to beat them. In this election every vote will be vital. roryshannon@live.co.uk

The views shown here are those of the individual candidates and not of The Village magazine

The Village

December 2019

HE POLLS . . . AGAIN! Bromsgrove in the General Election on December 12 . . . LIB DEM GREEN Dr David Nicholl Kevin White I would be proud to serve as Bromsgrove’s Liberal Democrat MP, having lived in the constituency in Hagley for 16 years. I work as a Consultant Neurologist in Birmingham. This year, I came to prominence when I was involved with medical No Deal planning as part of Operation Yellowhammer. I realised that the plans were not safe for my patients in Bromsgrove. I spoke out to BBC Newsnight. I famously extracted an apology from Jacob-Rees Mogg for his statements about me in the House of Commons. In brief, I have the courage to stand up for Bromsgrove and speak truth to power. I have successfully campaigned on many issues, including helping to save the sports gym at Haybridge School when the Conservatives planned on closing it 10 years ago. As a working doctor, I will fight to protect the NHS in Bromsgrove, and address the problems with access to GPs and delays in cancer screening in Worcestershire caused by Conservative mismanagement. On the environment, our three Lib Dem district councillors have passed a Climate Emergency motion, to help address the big global issue of the consequences of climate change, with a credible plan to make Bromsgrove carbon neutral. On business, I have met with businesses in the area, such as BumbleHole Foods, to see first hand the risks that a post-Brexit US trade deal could have on animal welfare, as it would for patient care. In politics, as in medicine, sometimes you have to be honest with those you serve. It is time be honest that the kind of Brexit being offered will cause huge harm to many in Bromsgrove. I am a working doctor prepared to call this mess out, not an ex-banker and career politician. The Lib Dems are the ONLY party that provide a positive way forward for the country with the ability to save the Union, as opposed to the dishonesty of the Tories and the equivocation of Labour. For more information on #TeamNicholl visit www.facebook.com/NichollForBromsgrove/ david.nicholl@blueyonder.co.uk

I’m 46 years old and have lived in Redditch most of my life, but now in Marlbrook for over a year. For more than 20 years I’ve been an active campaigner on many issues and initiated numerous local events and groups, such as the online reuse groups Bromsgrove & Redditch Freegle/Freecycle and the annual independent Redditch Green Fair which ran for seven years. In 2010, 2015 and 2017 I was the Green Party’s Parliamentary candidate for Redditch and an elected Parish Councillor in Feckenham from 2010 to 2014. As a committed vegan I’ve devoted much of my life to organising countless vegan fairs and festivals all across the West Midlands, helping thousands of people to change their lives for the better. I would empower the local authorities in Bromsgrove to bring empty homes back into use and work to create enough new homes for social rent for the more than 3,000 people currently on the Bromsgrove waiting list. These homes would conform to very high energy efficiency standards, requiring 90 per cent less energy for heating. I would ensure that every house in the constituency is effectively insulated by 2030. These measures would help us to meet our carbon emissions targets while providing the jobs local people need. The Worcester Royal Hospital can’t cope with increasing demand so I would work to ensure there’s a fully-functioning hospital with a full range of services including A&E and (reinstated) maternity in Redditch, and the Minor Injuries Unit in Bromsgrove. We need to create new cycleways and footpaths, while making public transport more user-friendly and cheaper than travelling by car, enabling people to improve personal fitness, save money and reduce carbon emissions/ pollution by leaving their car at home – or even to sell it and join a car-share club. I’m looking forward to giving people the opportunity to vote for a fairer, more compassionate, democratic and sustainable town and world. kevinwhite94@hotmail.com

F F F ELECTION NEWS F F F ELECTION NEWS F F F ELECTION NEWS F F F ELECTION NEWS F F F n An election hustings takes place at Bromsgrove Baptist Church on Saturday, November 30 at 3pm. The deadline for submitting questions had already passed before our publication date, but all are welcome to go

along and hear what the four candidates have to say. n In Hopwood, the Westmead Hotel is being used as a polling station instead of the village hall this time – check your polling cards for details. The Village

December 2019

Village People

Crafters unite for festive fair The biannual Blackwell Craft Fair, now in its 40th year, saw plenty of visitors stocking up on Christmas gifts at Blackwell Methodist Hall. Quality homemade jewellery, cards and other crafts were on display, along with a Syrian vegetarian food stall which proved a big success. The regular Fairtrade stall was also busy selling cooking oils, dates and other produce. Proceeds went to the nearby Hillfields Animal Sanctuary, with the 50p admission including a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee and biscuits.

Photo / Keith Woolford

The Village loves to hear about your local events – we’ll print pictures if there’s room.

ANNOUNCEMENT It is with great sadness that I must announce the death of Dr Thomas Faber at the age of 60, following his short battle with cancer. Thomas asked me before his death to write a few words on his behalf. He expressed his wish to thank all his patients at Barnt Green Dental Centre (now Acorn Dental) for their loyalty, friendship and commitment over the past 12 years. He was deeply touched by all the gifts, messages and cards of support which he received during his brief illness. I cannot begin to convey how the whole dental team here at the practice feel at this very sad time. Thomas was totally committed to his patients and work colleagues alike. His zest for life was immeasurable. He was truly a wonderful, funny and generous person and will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. Jayne Hughes, Practice Manager

The Village

December 2019

20 Years Ago 10 Years Ago From TheVillage archive

From TheVillage archive

OUR COMBINED December 2009/ January 2010 issue featured the usual cover “baubles” with faces and places from the previous year.

December 1999 / jAnuary 2000 was a combined edition, starting the tradition for covers showcasing a year’s worth of Village life.

September 2013 – the diggers arrive IN THE NEWS: Staff at Hopwood Park Services were being filmed for a “fly-on-the-wall” television show called Motorway. In Alvechurch there was a heated debate over the installation of CCTV cameras, while The Village asked if readers had information about a brothel that was supposedly in Barnt Green in the 1970s. . .

A YOUTH football team in Alvechurch was one of the initiatives created by Bekah New, youth and children’s worker appointed by St Laurence Church. The team for eight to 12-year-olds was coached by Pete Gwilliam and had already enjoyed an outing to Villa Park.

September 2013 – the dig-

IN THE NEWS: gers arrive Alvechurch residents felt that the new schools site should fulfil its promise of being a community building, while in Hopwood there were concerns about light aircraft using a field as a landing strip. Elsewhere, a debate continued about exactly where Barnt Green began and ended.

david bellamy dropped into Tardebigge First School to help pupils including Katie-Lou and Ethan Medlicott to plant trees as part of the national Tree Appeal scheme. The school received 100 trees and hedging plants in the Trees for Schools campaign. LICKEY HILLS Society members Brian Gould, Jill Harvey and Baden Carlson, plus Lickey Ranger Emma Woolley and youngest member Sam, mark the society’s 25th birthday – it was formed in 1984 after a protest against a planned artificial ski slope in the hills.

Brownies Amber Fay, Katie Smith and Louise Brookes and Brown Owl Janet Lee (1st Cofton Brownies), plus Guider Diane Freeman and Guide Amy Freeman (3rd Lickey Guides), celebrate both groups’ 40th birthdays. The Village

December 2019

beoley parish council news review of the year 2019

newly appointed Clerk and Financial Officer took up his post in early 2019. Ian Shenton, an experienced Chartered Accountant, bought an efficiency and rigour to the work of council. January’s meeting also welcomed a new Parish Lengthsman, Steve Lewis, who immediately began clearing overgrown areas around Beoley Village and Portway. Coun Don Cook launched a SmartWater initiative across the parish which saw a good take-up of this security system, paid for jointly by the parish council and West Midlands Police. u Twenty-five Portway residents attended the February meeting to question parish and district councillors over the sudden development, on paddock land, without planning permission, by travellers. This has been a significant issue over the last 12 months causing great concern, especially to the residents of Billesley Lane. The council will continue to lobby Bromsgrove District Council, through Coun Annette English, to consider the nature of this action and the views of local people. Dangerous dogs attacking residents in Portway were referred to both the police and the Bromsgrove Dog Warden for action to be taken. u Concern was expressed at the March meeting regarding the proposed scale of the Eastern Gateway development at Ravensbank, and the lack of consultation on its effect on the environment and local residents. Although actually outside our parish, the ever-growing scale of this development, its slow but steady progress towards the village of Beoley, and the noise and light pollution it carries with it, is of great concern. Councillors agreed to make strenuous representations to the planners on the issue. u Litter was identified as a problem across the parish and the council decided to fund a regular litter pick. A memorial to the late Coun Jean Luck was approved at the April meeting; a tree has been purchased and is currently awaiting a ceremonial

u Consideration was given at the July meeting to establish a Beoley Neighbourhood Plan. Councillors identified the significant work involved in this and that the process could take a year or two to complete.

“planting” outside Beoley School, with which Coun Luck had been closely associated for many years. The school’s newly appointed head teacher, Mr Ben Irving, attended a council meeting and gave councillors an insight into the school and his vision for its future. u The local elections in May returned seven councillors for our parish, one of whom, Coun Paul Bridgewater, joined the council for the first time, to represent the Portway area. Coun Trevor Bland was re-elected as Chairman, with Coun Kevin Joynes appointed as his Vice Chair. The Annual Statutory Meeting saw a good turn-out of residents, many of whom raised concerns over the increase in speeding motorists through Beoley village and Portway. Councillors agreed that more needed to be done and representations were made to the police and the county. County councillor Charlie Hotham addressed the issue of speeding through Portway further at September’s meeting and the parish council agreed to lobby the county to instigate a permanent 30mph limit. u The parish website was revamped in early June and it now provides parishioners with a range of up-to-date parish information, including local road closures, planning information and local walks, as well as the statutory agendas and minutes of council meetings. u The “GlastonBeoley” music festival took place again this year on the parish field. This event was a great success, much enjoyed by all who attended, and made a profit of £14,000, which the organisers donated to local charities.

u Coun David Barry had held the post of Planning Lead within the parish council for some years and in September he decided it was time to step down. Coun Paul Bridgewater accepted the post and is now busy reviewing planning applications, and working closely with affected residents to solicit local opinions, prior to applications being considered by the parish council. The parish council is limited to submitting observations to the Planning Authority, be they “Approve”, “Object”, or “No comment”. The parish council has no authority to determine the outcome of any planning applications. The final recommendation rests in the hands of the professional planning officers at Bromsgrove District Council, having taken account of any formal observations. u The parish council has always maintained, and paid for, the provision of a street lamp in Watery Lane, Portway. This year the electricity charges were suddenly increased by over £1,000 per year and the council was forced to consider if continued maintenance was financially viable. The significant cost to the council to power the only lamppost belonging to the parish was discussed, and after consultation with Watery Lane residents, and negotiations with the electricity provider, it was agreed that this was essential for residents using the adjacent bus stop and to continue providing this facility. Any resident of this parish is entitled to attend council meetings, as an observer. The regular agenda allows a period of time for questions from the floor but if any resident wishes to speak about a particular issue, it is always best to notify the parish clerk (07746 565969) in order that appropriate time can be set aside.

The views on this page are those of Beoley Parish Council

Village News

Moment of silence

Above left: Rev Sheri Gidney leads a Remembrance Day service at the Lickey war memorial, which also involved local Scouts, Beavers and Cubs (above right and below right). Photos / Keith Woolford. Below left: Alvechurch’s service, organised by Alvechurch Ex-Services Association, was led by Rev Richard Bubbers and Rev Fiona Lee.

New life for village green The village green in Alvechurch where the Remembrance service always takes place was looking in tip-top condition this year, thanks to the hard work of parish councillor Alan Helmore and his wife Linda. “For many years the area had been lovingly cared for by a local WI group, but the plants suffered in last year’s long hot summer and the WI gardeners found it difficult to keep them alive,” says fellow parish councillor Andy Humphries. ”Linda and Alan persuaded the parish council that the green needed a facelift, so we helped pay for new plants.” The Helmores then rolled up their sleeves, prepared the ground and planted a range of low-growing and low maintenance flowering shrubs, just in time for November 11. The Village

December 2019

Village VillageViews Views

The journey to Barn Dear Editor – Your article “Green Belt roll-back” (October 2019) highlights a concern that the new Bromsgrove District Council (BDC) Plan Review is keeping the GL Hearn study (a desktop study by London consultants) as an option, which is a “garden town-like settlement” of 10-15,000 homes – locally dubbed “Barntchurch” – between Alvechurch and Barnt Green. It’s even more worrying that council leader Karen May wants to take us with her on “their” sustainable journey! I’m not at all sure we have the same idea of what’s sustainable. The Head of Planning states that BDC is required to “build about 7,000 new homes before 2040 as well as taking Birmingham “overspill” which the strategic housing manager says “equates to 379 new homes per year” and market trends say this can only go up, not down. These figures are brought about by the biggest change in the 2018 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which has been a new methodology to determine the number of homes that should be delivered through what is known as the standard method for assessing local housing need. All very well, you may say, however for the same period in Redditch, the new methodology gives an annual basic housing need of 181 homes per annum, far lower than the 337 homes (6,400 homes to be delivered over 19 years) currently

Have your say . . . about anything! 16

The Village

December 2019

being planned for. Surely someone needs to question the need for sites in Bromsgrove District to be used to meet Redditch’s unmet need, if Redditch Borough’s overall housing need has fallen from that previously determined and used for plan-making purposes. Consequently the plan to build up to 2,560 homes by Redditch on the site at Foxlydiate should really be used to address the Bromsgrove housing numbers requirement, not to address a now much-revised Redditch shortfall as indicated by the housing need methodology published in the 2018 NPPF. Something doesn’t quite sound right to me and I’m not signing up for the leader of BDC’s magical mystery journey. Adrian Smith, Hopwood

Harness power of green verges

Dear Editor – It’s great to see community spirit in Alvechurch channelled into “green” things like litter clearance and making the village as plastic-free as possible. A pilot project in Lincolnshire now shows it is possible for country lane verges to produce energy and organic fertiliser. How about it, Alvechurch? All these miles of pretty country lanes; if the verge mowing is delayed until haymaking time when the wildflowers have set seed, then, gathered in, the shredded debris can be left to cook in anaerobic digester vessels, producing methane to be burnt for power generation

email: editor@villageonline.co.uk

or write to: Letters, The Village, The Limes, Swan Street, Alvechurch B48 7RR Please include your name and address – even if you request them to be withheld from publication. We reserve the right to edit submissions for reasons of space or legality. The deadline for the next issue is December 11.

n tchurch?

and compost for local farmers to spread on their land. Removing the debris cut from the verges stops build-up of nutrients and domination of the verges by coarse vegetation, making the lanes even more beautiful in summer – proving to the naysayers that conservation pays and produces. Nag the council to look at getting the appropriate mowers and grants. David Fernie, Kings Norton

Don’t mind the residents, we just live here!

Dear Editor – This is a suggestion to the “Cofton Hackett resident” (Village Views, November 2019) regarding their view that the No Entry sign in Ten Ashes Lane is out of date. I have a question: what’s the difference between an Austin worker and a lazy estate resident? Answers on a postcard please, and put them on the notice board at the lovely new village hall. While you’re at it, petition to get rid of the traffic island at Lickey Road, then do as 500 cars a day do; just cut through Ten Ashes. This is a documented fact! Don’t worry that you will be responsible for a fatality that would surely happen, and don’t concern yourself with that blind bend and steep drop, or that residents take their life in their hands merely wanting to exit their own drives. We don’t mind the everyday road rage, the swearing from inconsiderate idiots, and we didn’t mind buying a new lamp post. Ten Ashes Lane resident

Look after your own leaves

Dear Editor – It’s that time of year again when the good folk of Barnt Green believe that clearing their garden of fallen leaves means blowing them down the road and making them someone else’s problem. Can I suggest paying your gardener to do a proper job? Arthur Sedgworth, Barnt Green

Plants just need water

Dear Editor – I was upset to read (News in brief, November 2019) that the contractors were blamed for the “disappointing” display this summer in the controversial tiered containers in Barnt Green. There is a continues overleaf

TheVillage View . . .

t’s hard to believe that, with everything else going on in the world and the country (apparently there’s a General Election), we find ourselves once again exercised to the point of distraction by the planners of Bromsgrove. These are the people we pay to ensure that our villages and towns, and their surroundings, evolve in the ways we would like them to, while meeting the ever-changing expectations from national government policy and, we hope, resisting the ever more hungry demands of developers who always have our highly profitable green fields in their sights. How difficult can this be? Too difficult, it would seem, going by their lack of control over a Barnt Green housing estate. We’ve already wondered (in September’s Village View) how a house builder can ignore a planning authority’s requirements for a public footpath through a new development and put up gates blocking access – especially when around half the public open space provided by the development is behind those gates. At the time, we assumed the district council would just enforce its requirements. We ordinary folk know full well that if we erect a wall or gates or put in a window that doesn’t have planning permission, the enforcement officer will be round pretty quickly to make sure we knock it down or pull it out. But no, instead we have Barnt Green Gates-gate. We also have a lot of careful words intended to try to make councillors and villagers just forgive, forget and get on with the status quo. According to the developer, Cala Homes, the public right of way through the estate between Fiery Hill Road and Cherry Hill Road was an “aspiration”. According to the planning department at Bromsgrove, the gates have been “inadvertently approved”. This is simply unacceptable. As the Barnt Green independent district councillor, Charlie Hotham, has predicted, we could see this end up before the Local Government Ombudsman. But all that will do is cost the district council, and us, yet more money in defending itself and then possibly paying any awards made by the ombudsman. What we want to see is the planning department do some proper enforcement by telling the developers that obstructions “quietly shown” on plans, and which were not removed when told to do so, does not constitute their approval. The gates should be removed and the public footpath, as was always intended by the planners, properly instated to allow all of the villagers of Barnt Green to walk safely into the Lickey Hills – and to allow access to the public open space. The Village

December 2019

Village Views continued from previous page saying: “no point planting without water”. I pass the container near the Vic pub at least five times a week, and the soil was like dust, it was so dry. I did tell a member of the council at least a couple of times, then a third time when I heard the planting blamed. The plants were at their best during October . . . but we have had rain! Rachel Banner, Barnt Green

A helping hand

where’s vinny?

Wendy Cooper, of Rubery, was the latest winner of a Mini Vinny in our monthly competition. If you want to win one for yourself, you’ll need to try to locate the little hedgehog hiding somewhere in this magazine (the one shown above is just a guide and the one in a Christmas bauble doesn’t count either!) Just tell us where he’s hiding via phone, email or post – please include your contact details, especially if leaving a voicemail message – and we’ll draw a winner at random. The closing date is midnight on the 18th of every month. We’ll let you know if you’ve won and you can collect your Mini Vinny from our office – and pose for a photo with your prize!

Dear Editor – I am sending pictures (right) of myself and my grandson Alex doing our annual cleaning of the dirty road signs in our proximity. I hope this might encourage others to take up the task in their own areas, as so many are almost unreadable. Keith Hughes, Lickey

We can spray anything – challenge us!

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The Village

December 2019

could you deliver

The Village in finstall?

You need to be aged 13 or over and have an email address, a bank account and somewhere dry where we can drop off the magazines each month. The Village is easy to get through letter boxes, we’re friendly to deal with and we pay pretty well, too!

For more information, call Louise on 0121 445 6757 or email: louise@villageonline.co.uk

R. M. B. SERVICES Domestic Appliance & Gas Engineer as seen on Alvechurch Village Society’s Facebook page

Don’t forget to book your winter boiler service now!

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H H

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Village People

Dance stars light up stage

A group of village dancers raised funds for a charity close to their hearts with a spectacular annual performance. Burcot-based Supreme Stars Dance Academy presented a Halloweenthemed show called Supreme Scream,

featuring local dancers aged from three to 53! Each year the group chooses a different charity to support and this year it was the Teenage Cancer Trust. The performers were delighted to raise more than £500. Academy principal Lizzie Hill said:

“As well as raising money for such a good cause, it was fantastic to see the dancers enjoying themselves and their confidence on stage.” To find out more about Supreme Stars, contact lizzie@supremestars danceacademy.co.uk

Harvest helpers

Pupils and staff at Crown Meadow First School in Alvechurch enjoyed a traditional Harvest Festival, when they shared Harvest songs and Year One children received a gift of a children’s bible from the local churches. They also took the opportunity to thank Rev Fiona Lee from Alvechurch Baptist Church – who is leaving the area at Christmas – for her service to the school and community. Food and other items collected at the Festival were later donated to Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid.

Crafty for Christmas Alvechurch KniT & Natter would like to thank all who supported their annual Christmas craft fair at the cricket club, where knitted goods were on sale alongside other locally-made items. The event raised money for the group’s charities: Brain Tumour Research, Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and Good Hope Hospital.

The Village

December 2019

Village Directory

The Village Directory To get your business or service noticed, call Louise on 0121 445 6757 Friendly Service, Free Estimates, Quality Work

All Internal & External Carpentry Insurance Work Undertaken

Treat Your Home to a NEW Carpet or Rug l l l

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The Village

December 2019

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Call for a quote on 07582 520075 or 0121 445 1010 l phillthesweep@yahoo.com

Nicky Robinson Aesthetics Aesthetic treatments with qualified medical professional - including anti-wrinkle treatments, fillers, Microneedling, dermaplanning and skin care u Fully insured u Certified by Derma Medical Member of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses Tel: 07843 047688 E: nrobinsonaesthetics@gmail.com Web: www.nraesthetics.co.uk Instagram: @Nickyrobinsonaesthetics u

A.S. PAINTING & DECORATING For all your decorating needs contact Alan on 07730 477564

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Village Directory

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Can’t get what you want? We make kitchens, conservatories, stairs, windows, doors etc, using traditional woodworking techniques to match existing work or to your own design. All work carried out to the highest standard.

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To advertise here, call Louise on 0121 445 6757 24

The Village

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December 2019

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SEASON’S GREETINGS Merry Christmas

from Independent District Councillor

Annette English

Merry Christmas

from Independent District Councillor

Kate Van Der Plank

Merry Christmas

from Sajid Javid

Merry Christmas

from Independent Parish, District & County Councillor

Charlie Hotham

Merry Christmas

from everyone at

Barnt Green Parish Council

Merry Christmas

from Jackie and the team at

Windmill Hill Care Tom and everyone at

T S Electrical wishes you a very

Merry Christmas

from everyone at

The Village including Vinny!

Ready H

ands up if you can’t wait for Christmas! It doesn’t seem five minutes since we were writing this article last year, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t fully embrace the festive season in all its glory. Our villages and towns will certainly be doing their bit to get us all in the mood, with twinkling lights and Christmas carols to bring the magic to residents of all ages. Leading the pack this year is Barnt Green, which has its big lights switch-on event on Saturday November 30. Between 4 and 6pm, there will be entertainment from the youngsters of Star Project, while the lights themselves will be turned on by Santa himself. The village is also holding a shop window competition. The following afternoon it’s Lickey’s turn to light up, with their event from 4–6pm at Holy Trinity Church – this includes a concert and the prize-giving for the parish council’s Christmas competition. Blackwell is up next, with its festivities at 5.15pm on Friday December 6 at St Catherine’s Church. This will also feature prize-giving, and Santa will of course be in attendance. On the same evening, Alvechurch launches its Christmas lights with a larger-than-usual gathering in the precinct from 5pm. An 80-strong choir from Alvechurch Middle School will open the event before Bromsgrove’s Town Crier flicks the switch around 5.20pm, followed by more music from Alvechurch Community Choir. The winner of the shop window display competition will also be revealed. During the evening, the forecourt at Alvechurch Baptist Church will be lit, the church open, carols playing and mulled wine served to those passing by. There should also be plenty of village houses decked out in lights this year, ready for the parish council’s annual competition. There are prizes for the best-decorated house

The Village

December 2019

Pic: Dennis Brown

for Christmas!

Village Christmas

Our guide to the celebrations taking place in the Village area.

or garden display, and for the bestdecorated front door or window. To enter, you must be in the parish and submit your entry to the parish office on George Road by midday on Friday December 20. Judging will take place on the evening of Monday December 23, with the results announced the following day. The Village area offers lots more opportunities to join in with some community singing, with carol events and services taking place in multiple locations. On Wednesday December 18 there’s a Carol Service at Rowney Green Village Hall from 6.30pm. Finstall Village Hall has

Community Carols at 7pm on Friday December 20,with mulled Tardebigge Cider. Cofton Hackett also offers Community Carols that evening at 6.30pm, followed by refreshments – meet at the bottom of Chestnut Drive by the Myhill Field. Foundry, the new community service in Cofton Village Hall, has carols at 3pm on Sunday December 22, also with refreshments. That’s also the date for the Oakalls and Parklands Christmas Community Carols, starting at 6.15pm with the Blackwell Concert Band playing on the open grassed area by the notice board and Trianon Road; fol-

lowed by community carol singing at 6.30pm. Refreshments will be available to buy including mulled Tardebigge Cider, mince pies and candy floss; with glow sticks and sweets for the children. Father Christmas arrives at around 7pm. Local churches have a raft of special

continues on page 29

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All you need for a perfect Christmas!

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Dexam cake tins from £6.99

Fine bone china mugs £7.99

Stellar cookware up to half price

DON’T FORGET: we have huge stocks of logs,

kindling, coal, gas & rocksalt, snow shovels & sledges!

The Village

December 2019

Village Christmas continued from page 33 services in the run-up to Christmas, as well as their Christmas Day celebrations. Here’s a selection: Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight at St Bartholomew’s, Tardebigge is at 6pm on Sunday December 22, while St Mary’s at Bentley has its carol service at 9.30am on Sunday December 15. St Leonard’s in Beoley has Informal Carols at 9.30am on Sunday 22 December followed by Traditional Candlelit Carols at 5.30pm, plus a Crib Service at 4.30pm on Christmas Eve. Alvechurch Baptist Church is bidding farewell to Rev Fiona Lee, who takes her last services on Sunday December 15 – Advent at 10.30am, followed by a bring ‘n’ share lunch, and Carols by Candlelight at 6pm.

St Laurence in Alvechurch hosts Nine Lessons and Carols at 6pm on Sunday December 22, and Family Nativity Services on Christmas Eve at 4pm and 6pm. St Mary’s RC Church in Alvechurch has an Advent Carol Service at 4pm on Sunday December 22, and Rowney Green Church offers a Family Crafty Christmas at 3pm on Sunday December 22. St Michael’s at Cofton has its Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, with the Archdeacon of Birmingham, at 6pm on Sunday December 15. On Christmas Eve, St Andrew’s in Barnt Green has a 3pm Nativity Service, a short and informal event ideal for under-fives. This is

followed by Carols by Candlelight at 4.30pm and 6.30pm. Barnt Green Baptist Church offers a Family Nativity Service at 10.30am on Sunday December 22 ,followed by Carols and Candles at 6.30pm. St Catherine’s in Blackwell has a Parish Carol Service followed by Mulled Wine and Mince Pies at 6pm on Sunday December 22, plus a Crib Service at 4.30pm on Christmas Eve, to which you are welcome to come dressed as an angel, shepherd, sheep or king. Earlier that afternoon, at 3pm, Holy Trinity Lickey has its Christingle service. h Don’t forget that Barnt Green’s annual Wassail Walk, where participants wrap up warm and walk to a local orchard to enjoy mulled cider and wake the trees up with lots of noise, takes place on Friday December 27 – meet at 3pm in Millennium Park.

More Christmas overleaf!

d Alvechurch Parish Council wishes you alL

a merry christmas and festive season

We’re always working for you and for the benefit of our Parish We invite your comments, suggestions and requests at our regular meetings. These usually take place on:

u 2nd Monday of every month – Alvechurch Parish Council meeting at Hopwood Community Centre

u 1st Monday of every month – Planning Committee meeting at 1A George Road, Alvechurch

For details of all our meetings please go to www.alvechurch.gov.uk/meetings or you can always email or contact the Parish Office at 1A George Road, Alvechurch, B48 7PB Tel: 0121 447 8016 Email: clerk@alvechurch.gov.uk

The Village

d December 2019

Village Christmas

hy not take the hassle out of your post-Christmas clear up and support Birmingham Children’s Hospital at the same time? Last year, Cofton-based Fee’s Trees trialled a tree collection in the Barnt Green and Alvechurch areas, in which people made a donation to have their tree taken away. The demand was huge and £1,056.25 was raised for the Children’s Hospital. This year, Fee’s Trees are teaming up with JLG Groundworks to make the 2020 collections even bigger and better. Bromsgrove, Hopwood, Cofton and many more areas will now also be covered. The teams of volunteers will be

out and about collecting trees on Sunday January 5. The tree will then be taken and recycled for use in our local parks. Owner Fiona Edwards (left), who is also an Ambassador for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, said: “So many people love a real Christmas tree but don’t want the upheaval of moving it in their own car after the big day. By providing this service we can help them save time and mess.” To arrange a collection or to check if your area is included, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ bchtreecollection, make your donation and then email your home address to bchtreecollection@ btinternet.com

how to make your Christmas greener!

leaner Greener Alvechurch (CGA), a volunteer initiative started by independent district councillors, is busy putting into action some of the ideas shared on its social media. The group now has 230 supporters and is open to people interested in improving local environment and encouraging each other to live more sustainably. Aware of the environmental impact of Christmas, CGA has shaped a couple of initiatives to help villagers REDUCE their waste, REUSE items that are no longer needed and RECYCLE more effectively. A Christmas Swap Shop organised in the library in November gave villagers the opportunity to swap or buy unwanted Christmas jumpers, outfits and decorations. A swap shop of unwanted gifts is planned for early January – keep checking social media for details of these events. Some CGA members would like to share their ideas for avoiding and reducing waste this Christmas:

The Village

December 2019

H Debbie Holloway from Incredible Edible Alvechurch has been using the same real Christmas tree for the last five years. “I bought a small tree in the pot for £25. After each Christmas I put the pot in the garden in such a way that roots can access the nutrients in the soil.” H Instead of using brightly-decorated gift wrap, John Shields is going to try out Farushki – the art of wrapping presents with a beautiful cloth that can be a present in itself. “Remember also the wrapping paper test – if it does not scrunch, it can’t be recycled!”

H Bee Strachan made her own decorations from autumn leaves and rosemary dipped in melted candles to make them appear covered in snow (see image). She is also going to reuse the packaging from Amazon for wrapping gifts. H “Get off the gift-giving treadmill!” says Jeni Burton, who agreed with her family to buy each other gifts that are eco-friendly with a £10 limit. “Try Woodland Trust or our Alvechurch-based Little Plastic.” H Nina Stanfield said her family massively reduced the number of Christmas cards it sent, and donates to charity instead. “E-cards and social media messages are a good alternative to cards.” H Jessica Thistleton uses fabric and ribbon for present wrapping. “If people don't mind, I ask for it back once the present has been unwrapped!” CGA welcomes all interested people to the next meeting on January 15 at 7pm in The Lounge. More Christmas on page 39!

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Open Mon 1-9, Tue 12-9, Wed 11-7, Thu 12-9, Fri 10-6, Sat 9-4

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Bliss! H Please support your local high street this Christmas: think big and shop small. H H

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Lickey & Blackwell Parish Council

would like to wish all of our residents a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

H Men's gift sets with FREE tech organiser

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Our new range of ELEVEN Australia products are vegan, gluten-free and cruelty-free. Designed to suit all hair types, they are also PETA-approved, made with natural ingredients, and have simple product names.

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Please vote ‘Yes’ in our Neighbourhood Plan referendum! Thursday December 12

Vote 7am–10pm at The Trinity Centre, Lickey The Wheel, Blackwell Cofton Hackett Village Hall St Luke’s Church Centre, Marlbrook

Village Christmas

Gift ideas for book-lovers T

he latest edition of The Bromsgrove Rousler, the popular local history magazine published by the Bromsgrove Society, is now available. The 2019 edition – number 34 in the series – features a fascinating mix of personalities and events that have helped shape Bromsgrove’s history. The cover shows a well-known local landmark: the timber-framed building at the corner of High Street and St John Street, now occupied by MFG solicitors. It is an example of the work of local architects Freddie and Mary Charles, who are profiled in an article inside. Next year, 2020, will be the Bromsgrove Society’s 40th anniversary. Editor Mike Sharpe has trawled the archives and spoken to some of the founders to tell the story of how the Society came to be established and its crucial early years. Other articles look at the Bilberry Hill Gun Proof Range in the Lickey Hills, Woodcote Manor House, the poet Joe Harrison and the artist Sybil Barham.

The Bromsgrove Rousler is available, still priced £2.95, from outlets including: WH Smith, Foto Factory, Bromsgrove Cobbler and Coffee Two in Bromsgrove High Street; Banner Foods; most local garden centres; Barnt Green Post Office, and Blackwell Stores. It can also be purchased as a download at the Bromsgrove Society website, www.bsoc.co.uk h Oakalls author Sue Watson’s latest novel is a dark and twisted psychological thriller set in Worcester. The Empty Nest tells the story of a woman whose daughter is away at university, and mysteriously disappears in the first term. Former BBC producer Sue, whose two previous novels hit the top of the best-seller lists in both the UK and the US, says this latest tale was inspired by her own daughter leaving home for university. “Thankfully, she loves it there,” says Sue, “but the whole experience made me think about

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The Village

December 2019

children leaving home, the potential fears and the empty nest they leave behind.” The Empty Nest is available to buy as a paperback or ebook on Amazon, Kobo and iTunes.

h John Hanson, Alvechurch UFO expert and author of the ever-expanding Haunted Skies series, is launching a new book called The Bluelight Casefiles – focusing on police responses to UFO sightings in the UK and abroad. He’s also working on Exposure, a look at the after-effects of human interaction with UFOs. Haunted Skies volumes are available on Amazon and other online bookstores, and the new books are due out in the new year. h Don’t forget that Boob Art, a calendar featuring images hand-painted on the chests of Rowney Green villagers, is on sale in aid of Cancer Research UK. Buy for £10 at Rowney Green Village Hall, order online at www.PayPal. me/Limebridge or email limebridgedesigns@yahoo.co.uk

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Village Events

PUMPKIN PATCH The third annual Pumpkin Festival at Alvechurch Village Hall was another great success, despite atrocious weather! More than 400 people visited, browsing the vast array of carved, decorated and home-grown pumpkins and craft items, and voting for their favourite. The winning entry (left) was grown by Sarah Courbet while Keith Yendell carved it and made and fitted the stained glass. The café downstairs was so popular that the cakes ran out just before the end, and the children’s face painting and games were a hit. The event raised around £1,400 for Papyrus (Prevention of Young Suicide) and the Village Hall.

The Village

December 2019

The Village

December 2019

Village Events

Above: Alvechurch Community choir battle the elements to entertain visitors, including a chorus of Singinâ€™ in the Rain! Left and bottom left: Youngsters enter into the spirit of the event.

The Village

December 2019

Oakalls Village

Halloween hi-jinks H

Sarah Rees reports from the Oakalls and Parklands.

alloween fell perfectly this year on a dry evening during the school half-term holiday. While there was a marked decline in the number of Oakalls households taking part, there was a significantly higher number of trick-or-treaters. News of the estate’s reputation for celebrating this annual event seems to have travelled beyond the boundaries of Bromsgrove, with some families travelling from as far afield as Stourbridge. This was evidenced by an unusually high number of cars parked along Regents Park Road on the night. Resident Jane Perry commented on the Oakalls Facebook page: “We had no sweets left and I keep buying more and more each year! I must have purchased nearly 400 sweets for tonight and still ran out. . . we really never shut our door! Our kids are older now so it really was nice to see the outfits and give away treats!” Lynn Foxall added: “A brilliant evening. Always grateful to those that dress their houses and gardens. The kids love it!” While most residents had only good things to say about the evening, some reported incidents of smashed pumpkins and discarded sweets and chocolates thrown on the ground. Chocolate is hazardous for dogs and the wilful destruction of pumpkins which people have taken time to carve is a regrettably negative aspect of what was otherwise a lovely evening. Please make sure children understand they should be respectful when taking part next year.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING …

The Oakalls and Parklands Christmas Community Carols event takes place on Sunday December 22, starting at

Left: Felicity with parents Jason and Natasha. Top: Sakshi, birthday girl Milli and Amelia. Above: Josh and Alfie. 6.15pm with the Blackwell Concert Band playing on the open grassed area by the notice board and Trianon Road; followed by community carol singing at 6.30pm. Refreshments will be available to buy including mulled Tardebigge Cider, mince pies and candy floss; with glow sticks and sweets for the children. Father Christmas will arrive at around 7pm. It is hoped there will be another large crowd this year, allowing residents to meet new friends and neighbours. People are encouraged to carry lanterns or torches and wear warm clothes and robust footwear. For safety reasons a road closure

from 6–8 pm has been requested by Coun Caroline Spencer for Royal Worcester Crescent from the top roundabout at its junction with Regents Park Road until the junction with Trianon Road, also including Davenham Road. Signs indicating an alternative route along Royal Worcester Crescent will be displayed on the roadside. A map showing the road closure and alternative route will be placed on the notice board prior to the event. Please contact me with your news, views and concerns about any aspect of life on the estate. Email: oakalls@villageonline.co.uk The Village

December 2019

Village Youth Sport

Rhinos’ festival of rugby K

ings Norton RFC kicked off its 2019/20 Primary School Tag Rugby season of festivals in October, with 16 teams taking part from ten local primary schools. This was a ''come and try Tag Rugby'' event where many of the children were new to the game. The teams came from Bournville, West Heath, St John Bosco, Kings Norton, The Meadows, St Marys, St Laurence, St John Fisher, Tiverton and Hawkesley primary schools. Kings Norton RFC were really pleased to see this season St John Fisher, Hawkesley and Tiverton who have just started taking an interest in the game. The event was followed by a re-run of the Rugby World Cup Primary

Schools Tag Rugby Festival hosted by KNRFC last June. The aim was to celebrate the Rugby World Cup and to encourage local schoolchildren to come along and try rugby. The KNRFC Rhinos youth teams

meet on Sundays at 10am at Hopwood Park, Ash Lane, and there is no charge to come and try the game for a few weeks to see if you like it – the team look forward to seeing you there.

praised all the players during the after-match refreshments and the East Midlands coaches presented medals to all participants, who played the games with tremendous sporting and respectful behaviour. West Midlands would like to thank all the players, families and sponsors Cedar Invest, Focal Image and MSP for their generous support, and look

forward to their next stages of development next season. NEW Ravens play mixed indoor touch rugby every Wednesday evening from 7.30pm at Bournville College in Longbridge. All are welcome, with or without experience. Further details from the website, www.newravens.co.uk or contact Gail on 07515 020844.

Ravens represent region T

he NEW Ravens juniors, having played in several festivals of rugby league this past year (including a big London event and parading around Wembley before the Cup Final), recently represented the West Midlands in an origin series versus the East Midlands. The two-match rugby league series was played in Derbyshire and at the Ravens’ home ground of Hopwood Park. The West Midlands put in very creditable performances in winning both matches, with several different players successfully opting to attempt conversions. The last match owed much to the West Midlands’ defence which kept the East Midlands at bay. Easts showed massive game improvements since the last encounter and were rightly credited for their efforts. West Midlands coaches Jason Spafford, Josh Liggett and Lee Knight

The Village

December 2019

U8s celebrate silverware A

lvechurch United U8s have secured their first trophy of the season by winning the Central Warwickshire Autumn Cup. With the matches played over two weekends and against four teams, Alvechurch United secured a 100 per cent win rate, scoring 17 goals and only conceding three. Over the past three months the boys have put in hard work learning their skills, shown great desire and worked brilliantly as a team. Coaches Macky Lawlor, Tim Andrews and Nick Hyde would like to thank the parents for their support and the boys (Tate, Joshua, Toby, Lennie, Jacob, Sam, Jack and Jenson) for being amazing.

The Village is always keen to hear about your sporting success â€“ keep sending stories and high-quality photos and weâ€™ll print them in the next available magazine, space permitting.

The Village

December 2019

Village Sport

AFC LOOK FOR NEW boss Alvechurch FC hope change at the top will bring better results.

lvechurch have parted company with manager Darren Byfield after a run of poor results that has left them just outside the relegation zone. The club said in an official statement: “It is with sadness that we announce the departure of Darren Byfield as First Team Manager [. . . ] It was always going to be a task of mammoth proportions assembling a new squad following the departure of most of the team from last season. “We’ve picked up points here and there and although there are green shoots of recovery, the board felt it was time to move in a different direction. We would like to thank Darren for his efforts this season and wish him well for the future.” Dean Holtham, who rescued the club from certain relegation in the 2011/12 season, has stepped into the breach until a permanent replacement is found. He will also continue his duties as the club’s Education Programme Director. The last straw in Byfield’s reign was a defeat to Peterborough Sports in the first qualifying round of the FA Trophy. ’Church had put in a battling performance, especially as they had to play the last 20 minutes with ten men due to the harsh dismissal of Archie Brennan for handball. In the sixth minute of stoppage time Alvechurch gave away a needless free-kick; and Cameron Johnson made no mistake finally beating Joe Slinn to send Peterborough through. The loss came after defeats at the first hurdle in the FA Cup, JW Hunt Cup, Southern League Challenge Cup and Birmingham Senior Cup, and only one league win since August. AFC must now navigate some tricky fixtures before Christmas, including high-flying Coalville Town and old rivals Stourbridge. There’s also an away

The Village

December 2019

Action from a rare home win against St Ives. (Photo/ Ian Macvie)

match at Worcester Raiders in the Worcestershire Senior Cup quarter final – date to be confirmed. l Before his departure, Darren Byfield had made several new signings, including the return of skilful midfielder Aaron Birch. Joining him in midfield are Paul Douglas, Fortune Maphosa and Ivor Lawton. Three exciting young forwards have also been signed: Fin Thorndike from West Bromwich Albion’s under18s and Stanley Asomugha from the under-23s, plus centre forward Kieran Miller from Wolverhampton Casuals. In defence, Linden Dovey has joined from Stratford Town, while international clearance was required to sign Ryan Wollacott from Aberystwyth Town. l Meanwhile, Courtney Richards has joined Stratford Town after a short stay at Lye Meadow, Josh Ezewele has joined up with ex-Alvechurch manager Ian Long at Stourbridge, Stuart McNaught and John Atherton have returned to Walsall Wood and Miracle Okafor has joined Highgate United. Ben Usher-Shipway has returned to Solihull Moors, having completed his three-month loan at AFC. Ben won Player of the Month during his stay but a hamstring injury has put him out of action recently.

l Congratulations to goalkeeper Joe Slinn for winning Supporters’ Player of the Month for October. Recent signing Joe has become an instant favourite with the Alvechurch faithful thanks to his domination of the box, reflexes and brave keeping. Goal of the Month for October goes to Mitch Botfield, whose individual run from the halfway line and finishing ensured the club secured a vital point away at Needham Market. l The directors, management and players would like to wish all supporters a very happy Christmas and prosperous new year. l For more info or sponsorship enquiries, please contact Trevor Ball at saintsarehot2@btinternet.com or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/ alvechurch Follow the club on Twitter @Alvechurch1st

fixtures (League unless stated) Tues Dec 3 Stourbridge (H) 7.45pm Sat Dec 7 Lowestoft Town (A) 3pm Tues Dec 10 Coalville Town (H) 7.45pm Sat Dec 14 Biggleswade Town (A) 3pm Sat Dec 21 Tamworth (H) 3pm Thur Dec 26 Bromsgrove Sporting (H) 3pm Wed Jan 1 Redditch United (A) 3pm Sat Jan 4 Royston Town (H) 3pm

Village Finance

Advertisement feature

How much is enough? T

he news, social media and press are great at telling you that you need millions of pounds to ensure financial security in retirement. These statements only serve to strike unnecessary fear and worry into people’s minds. There are three types of client: those that do not have enough, those that have enough and those that have too much. In each situation, rarely do clients know which category they fit into until they have engaged with a lifestyle financial planner. What if you already have enough? There is a great story of a Mexican boatman which defines relative success. The story goes as follows… There was a high-powered management consultant on holiday on a beach in Mexico. Early one morning he saw a local boatman come up to shore in his little boat. Inside the boat was a large yellow fin tuna. He got talking to the boatman and he asked: “Tell me, what you do with your life?” The Mexican said: “Well, I go out fishing early in the morning and I catch a yellow fin tuna. I come back and sell it. I then go home and have breakfast with my beautiful wife. We chat a while. “Most days we make love followed by a snooze in the afternoon. Then in the early evening I play with the kids when they get back from school, I have dinner with my wife and then I go down to the local cantina where I play guitar, sing and have a drink with my amigos!” The management consultant said: “I think I can help you. Here is my advice: instead of going back so early, why don’t you stay out and fish a little longer and catch more tuna. That way you can make more money so you can buy a bigger boat.” “Really?” said the Mexican. “Then what happens?” “Well, then you can catch even more fish. Then what you can do is

Find out how much you need for the life you want, says Martin Pryor.

employ some of your amigos and set up a fishing fleet to catch even more yellow fin tuna!” “Wow!” the Mexican said, “and then what happens?” “Well,” said the consultant, “that is when the magic happens; eventually you can bypass the middle man altogether and have your own cannery! Over the years you can build a fantastic fleet and a marvellous business!” The Mexican was fascinated by all this and he said: “That is brilliant, what happens next?” “Well, eventually you will be in a position to sell, which is where we can help you do an IPO and make you millions!” “Wow, millions?!” said the Mexican in awe. “Then what happens?” The consultant then rubbed his hands and said: “Oh, that is the best bit! You can then relax, retire to a little Mexican fishing village and in the morning you can get up and go fishing for a yellow fin tuna and in

the evening you can play guitar and have a few drinks with your amigos!” The moral of the story is that you might already have the life you really want. So why work harder or longer than you really need to? Life is too short. Research shows that the majority of people have no idea how much money they really need for the rest of their life. They may have income, assets and investments but no idea what it all means, or what sort of financial future awaits. So, if you feel like this, you’re not alone! The big question is: are you going to run out of money? Or will you die with too much? What we all need to know is how much is ENOUGH? Having an insight into how much you actually need can be enlightening. It can put you in control. Knowing how much is ENOUGH will give you the freedom to live your life smarter. After all, life is not a rehearsal; it needs to be lived to the max. Contact PPM Financial Planning for an initial meeting to discover what your ENOUGH is. The meeting is at our expense with no long term obligations. n Tel: 07961 162818 martinpryor@ppm-ifa.co.uk www.ppm-ifa.co.uk

The team at PPM Financial planning would like to wish you all a happy Christmas and healthy 2020. Thank you for all the local support we have received throughout 2019.

The Village

December 2019

Village Weather

Rain and more rain

Alvechurch amateur weatherman Phil Thomas records the changes.

ovember started quite wet but also mild, and very overcast with little sunshine in the first week. The second week became a little colder with night frosts but also a lot more rain, leading to local flooding. The cause of these changes was due to the jet stream in the Atlantic dropping further south at times, introducing colder but very changeable weather. The second half of the month turned much colder with some frosts, but also some grey, overcast and quite chilly November days.

Mist in the valley between Alvechurch and Rowney Green

November 2019 (to the 24th) Mean Max 8.4C 1.4 below average Mean Min 3.5C 0.1 below average Mean 5.9C 0.8 below average Rainfall 130.1mm 167% of average Sunshine 48.1 hrs 76% of average There was a chilly start to October with ground frosts on the 2nd and 3rd. The weather then turned milder and quite changeable, with a further shift to colder anticyclonic weather towards the end of the month. Rainfall was around normal until a period of heavier rain on the 25th and 26th; a combined fall of 32.2mm in 36 hours with local flooding.

October 2019 Mean Max 13.1C 0.8 below average Mean Min 6.4C exactly average Mean 9.7C 0.4 below average Rainfall 112.1mm 124% of average Sunshine 90.1hrs 98% of average Outlook As the month changes weâ€™ll see

some settled weather in the east with rain, strong winds and possibly gales continuing in the west. Through early December confidence remains very low but there could be a period of more settled weather across much of the UK. This will bring drier conditions for many but there will be a chance of frost and fog developing for many areas through the night. Temperatures look to be around average for the time of year.

More information at www.alvechurchweather.metsite.com You can see an improved HD weather-cam, updated at one-minute intervals, at: www.alvechurchweather.metsite.com/webcam_alvechurch.php

The Village

December 2019

Above: Floods on Abbey Park golf course, photographed by Paul Wilde.

Mark Meads: Equity Release Specialist In November I talked about getting the right advice when enquiring about equity release. This month I answer the question which clients think about the most:

“How can I be sure equity release is right for me?” If you come to me for financial advice on equity release, you get the reassurance of dealing with someone who is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and who has been working in financial services for over 27 years. In that time I have helped many clients decide if equity release was right for them. And if it isn’t right, then I will tell you. So what exactly is equity release? Well, it’s available to homeowners aged 55 and over, you can be retired or still working, single or married. You can release up to 55 percent of the value of your home; however, the exact amount is dependent on a number of things, such as your age, house value and your personal circumstances. One thing is for certain: you will never owe more than the value of your property; you own your home like any other mortgage. Alternatively, you can also start a plan by borrowing as little as £10,000, so no matter what your circumstances I can find a loan which is suitable for you and your family. All equity release funds are tax-free and it is entirely up to you how you spend it. A number of my clients use equity release money to help pay off existing mortgages or other debts. For many families, Christmas is fast approaching and it may be that a house extension is needed to fit everyone in! This could be within reach using this plan. With any financial planning, decisions you make must be based on a sound knowledge of the product in which you are investing. This is why talking to a specialist is invaluable, as it will enable you to make the right choice for you and your family. If you would like to talk in confidence about your financial needs and future financial planning, then call me directly on 07730 011897, for an initial discussion to see how I can help you and your family.

Equity Release – Mortgages – Business Protection The Coppice, Rowney Green Lane, Rowney Green, Worcestershire, B48 7QF Mob : 07730 011897 Email : mark.meads@villagefinancial.co.uk Village Financial Solutions Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Primis Mortgage Network. Primis Mortgage Network is a trading style of Personal Touch Financial Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. AN EQUITY RELEASE PRODUCT WILL REDUCE THE VALUE OF YOUR ESTATE, WILL NOT BE SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE AND MAY AFFECT YOUR ENTITLEMENT TO STATE BENEFITS. TO UNDERSTAND THE FEATURES AND RISKS PLEASE ASK FOR A PERSONALISED ILLUSTRATION CHECK THAT THIS MORTGAGE WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS IF YOU WANT TO MOVE OR SELL YOUR HOME OR YOU WANT YOUR FAMILY TO INHERIT IT. IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT, SEEK INDEPENDENT ADVICE Our typical fee for equity release services is £650, which is payable upon completion.

Village Country Diary Mary Green takes a look back at the ups and downs of our countryside in 2019.

t this time, we often look back over the year, and I have found 2019 quite an odd wildlife year. The flowering of plants and arrivals of birds and insects have not been as expected. It was a very mild start, especially compared with the previous year, yet the first signs of spring weren’t especially early. The start of spring was very warm and quite dry – I remember walking in shirt-sleeves in February – but the blackthorn, plum and apple blossoms came at the normal time and migrating birds like swallows seemed quite late. We had an all-time record high temperature in late July yet it wasn’t really a hot summer. There was a good crop but a bad harvest for many farmers. And I’ve never seen the trees stay green as late as they did this year, with autumn colour not really starting till the end of October except on non-native species. As I look out of my window I see a lot of bare trees, without having had the week or so of lovely golden leaves I usually see. But it was a good year for most native wildlife, from great blossom and fruit on our trees to good conditions for most nesting birds in this area. Finally in November we have some wonderful autumn colour, especially from our native oak and field maple trees.

The Village

December 2019

a wildlife

Looking back to January, I remember the spectacular hazel catkins this year, turning the trees gold, and masses of snowdrops. By the end of the month I was hearing great tits, green finches and a green woodpecker. When I did the Big April lady’s Garden smock and Birdwatch orange tip the birds all deserted my garden for the day! However, I did see a huge number of water birds on the canal – literally dozens of mallards and Canada geese and a few moorhens. Something else I noticed in January was a lot of winter fungi,

including Jew’s Ear on elder, and the Birch Polypore. In early February I found cherryplum blossom and heard a spotted woodpecker hammering, with blackbirds and thrushes starting to sing, so I knew it was spring. I found flowers on something I have decided is a blackthorn crossed with a cherry plum. The flowers were tiny like blackthorn but much too early, the branches were thorn-free and patterned like cherry plum. (In the autumn, the fruits are definitely sloes). It shows how plants in the same family produce cross-breeds. There were lots of lovely daffodils. The weather became warm and there were chaffinches singing in my garden and coltsfoot and celandines along the canal. The Canal and Rivers Trust planted (mostly) native trees and climbers by the old bridge 64A. It was a record high

May holly flowers

November oak

wildlife year

temperature for February and there were wildfires in parts of the country. I saw a brimstone butterfly, really early. March was an odd month, warm and then cold. Lungwort finally flowered – it’s usually earlier – and blackthorn came out. The plums blossomed about the normal time and there was a frost afterwards which damaged some, but the damsons were slightly later and weren’t affected. I saw orange tips and peacock butterflies and some lovely sweet violets which taste like those sweets we used to eat as kids. There was lots of lovely new growth and I made soups and salads with wild leaves, especially garlic. Two geese returned to Withybed to nest, and a pair of swans settled further up the canal. I heard chiffchaffs arrive. April started cold, with snow not far continues overleaf

May goslings

January daisies The Village

December 2019

Village Country Diary August blackberries

December sunrise

continued from previous page

away, but that didn’t stop bluebells coming early along with wood anemones and wood sorrel. There were a lot of elm trees in leaf and blossom, more than usual. Cherry blossom and apple blossom were lovely and there was a lot of may blossom out long before May. Mallard ducks were nesting in several neighbours’ gardens, as they do. It was warm by the end of the month. Oak came into leaf early, as usual in a warm spring, but the ash was out in leaf early too,

which is more unusual. Cow parsley didn’t come particularly early but by the end of the month is was gorgeous everywhere. Orange tip butterflies did well in the sun. In May there were bluebells even in places you don’t normally see them. I saw holly blue butterflies on holly flowers – quite hard as so many people cut holly back too much. I had the lovely experience again of watching Canada geese goslings emerge from their eggs by the canal, and heard the swans had produced cygnets.

September Dryad’s saddleconkers fungus

The Village

December 2019

Eades Meadow was as beautiful as ever with green-winged orchids and common blue butterflies, and I was shown early purple orchids in Dunnage Wood. But there weren’t so many swallows as usual round here for some reason – possibly the dry weather. In June I had the good luck to see another part of the country, Portland, where wildlife was wellprotected and the variety of plants, insects and birds was stunning. I’d never seen Adonis blue butterflies before, and it was unusual to see so many orchids everywhere. This was one of the places I saw and heard skylarks again, which had been missing in my life round here. Nearer home I was excited to see the big new orchard planted near Barnt Green. I was impressed by how many insects there were along the canal vegetation and in other wild places here – bees, hoverflies, butterflies and dragonflies. They were enjoying the abundant flowers this year. Even in Kings Norton Park I found common spotted orchids, and there was one on a nearby verge here for a while until it got mowed. Roses of all kinds, wild and garden, were quite late flowering. July was the time for flowering

February celandines

meadows. The hay meadows here of yellowhammers for the first time were thick with wild flowers and in ages. I also saw giant hogweed butterflies, and the grassed areas close up – quite unmistakable. around Withybed Marina were also At home the Canada geese full of vetch, moon daisies, clovers started wheeling and calling and mallows. I saw a lot of without going anywhere, red admiral butterflies as they do every year, October and there was a following some cauliflower fungus veritable influx of long-gone migrapainted ladies. tion habit. As it The canalside was warm and vegetation damp, there was especially were early good this year mushrooms, – the Canal and Rivers Trust did a good job with it. It was full of meadowsweet, vetch, figwort and marsh woundwort, and fragrant with bedstraw. Later in the month it was very hot and I experienced invasions of thunderbugs and then hoverflies while up north. Both are harmless and I find them less annoying these days now I am grateful to still have insects! On my holidays in August I noticed the difference in places where arable fields are managed with nature, so there are lots of arable wildflowers (poppies, wild radish, camomile, heartsease) and birds July bumblebee on meadowsweet like skylarks. I heard and saw lots

especially a woodland-edge one which came in my garden too, Blackberries came early and were a good flavour. The harvest was late because of rain. I didn’t have as many wasps as usual around my fruit. In September came a heavy crop of damsons and a good one of plums. The new Barnt Green orchard had a great apple crop. It was mild and there were plenty of summer wild flowers still out. Malcontinues overleaf

The Village

December 2019

Village Country Diary continued from previous page

lard drakes were quite late getting their colours back after the summer drab season. Leaves were not turning expect on non-native trees and it still looked like summer. This continued into October, which was also quite mild and wet. I noticed particularly that the ash hadn’t gone its usual golden yellow but that leaves had already fallen while still green. I’ve never seen ash still green in November before. Quite a lot of trees seemed bare without having gone through the stages of colour. I don’t know why this was, but it doesn’t seem to be a good thing. The leaves turning colour means that the chlorophyll is being taken back into the trees for winter food, and I wonder if the tree suffers if they fall prematurely. We’ll see how they do next year. It was a fabulous autumn for fungi. I saw fly agaric, cauliflower mushrooms, parasols, boletus and wax caps, as well as field mushrooms and the many woodland-edge types. The trees that carry berries were full of fruit, especially hawthorn and the few hollies that are allowed to grow properly, and up to now I haven’t seen the flocks of redwings and fieldfares come to strip them. There should be plenty of food for birds this winter, and hopefully some berries for Christmas. I should thank my nephew and his family for giving me a special wildlife diary to fill in this year, while I was in hospital at the end of last year. I have had to find something to write every day, and it makes you notice things – try it! Have a happy Christmas. I wrote this poem before I knew we had an election coming!

June demoiselle dragonfly

The Village

December 2019

March white violets

These divided times

They say we’re living in divided times Families split apart and old friends silent Two new tribes who can’t be reconciled. I don’t see it. I haven’t fallen out With any of my family, no more than usual, And I know my friends hold different views from me But then they always have: that’s how life goes. I’m not part of any new tribe, and I don’t Have to bite my tongue and not say what I mean. During these years I have had bad times But people have held me, helped me and healed me And nobody’s asked me what I voted for. We sing in harmony as we always did Argue about gardening and hedge cutting Agree about the wastefulness of plastic Share food, ride narrowboats and make our poems Sometimes we are difficult or mad or bad Sometimes we move the mountain for each other. I am a child of nuclear war, and I remember Kids dying from measles, girls in backstreet fixes And gays imprisoned. Life is not a game Or sport in which you win or lose. In the end There is no victory if other people fall.

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December 2019

Village Gardening

Keep the Christm Dave Morgan suggests extending the season of goodwill by supporting local gardens open for charity next year.

The Village

December 2019

he Birmingham-based glam rock band, Wizzard, famously sang: “I wish it could be Christmas every day…” Well, I don’t! If it was, by midJanuary I would be as fat as a bacon pig, my liver would be well and truly pickled, my bank statement would

light up the room with the amount of red ink and I would have enough pairs of socks to cover the feet of an army! And as for the music – well, I love Christmas music, but once a year for a couple of weeks is enough. I feel sorry for shop assistants who have to work with Christmas music in the background from early November – and I pity those people who work in Christmas shops that are open every day of the year – oddly except Christmas Day! But one of the best things about Christmas is the sense of “Peace on earth and goodwill to all people” that increases as Christmas Day approaches – even if in many households it has been put back in the cupboard for another year before Boxing Day dawns! With the goodwill often comes willingness to be more generous – not just with family and friends but supporting charities, without which many people would suffer more than they do. Supporting charities is something that happens right through the spring and summer months by members of the National Garden Scheme, as garden owners open their little strips of England or Wales and visitors pay a small entrance fee to see the garden. Most of the money raised goes directly to a number of charities, mostly concerned with nursing and hospice care. Amazingly, the National Garden Scheme is the single largest regular annual donor to a number of charities such as Macmillan Nurses, Help the Hospices, Marie Curie and the Queens Nursing Institute (from which District Nursing originated). Annually, just by garden owners opening their gardens to visitors, more than £3 million has been given to these and other charities, and because it exists solely to share the love of gardens and to raise money

as spirit

for charity, about 80p in every pound that is paid on the door as visitors enter a garden goes directly to these wonderful organisations. And within Worcestershire we do our bit to help. Over the past five years we have raised an average of nearly ÂŁ74,000 a year directly for the NGS and more than ÂŁ6,000 a year for other local charities (income from refreshments is often given to local charities by the garden owners). But what has this to do with Christmas, you might ask. Well, as we all look forward to spring and warmer weather, and the first buds and flowers of the new season, perhaps Christmas really does exist every day â€“ especially in relation to supporting those who need extra help and care. The season of â€œPeace on earth and goodwill to all peopleâ€? exists in the generosity of the garden owners themselves and all the hard work they put in to make their gardens wonderful places to visit, the volunteers who help make and serve refreshments and, of course, the visitors, without whom none of this money would be raised. Gardens will start to open again in February 2020 for the National Garden Scheme in Worcestershire, so why not make a New Yearâ€™s resolution to visit as many gardens as possible to raise even more funds for the charities that need it? Youâ€™ll enjoy the friendly welcomes, the amazing gardens, the excellent refreshments and you may pick up a plant bargain as well. And by helping to raise more money you will be keeping the goodwill of Christmas alive throughout the year. The Village

December 2019

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To advertise your gardening business or service here, call Louise on 0121 445 6757

Village Stargazing Moon halo

Moon’s special effect

ecember, the month of dark, dark days – no, I don’t mean the 12th. The Sun sets at around four in the afternoon and doesn’t peep back over the horizon till eight in the morning and it never rises very high in the sky, even at noon. Winter Solstice occurs in the early hours of the 22nd and then, very slowly, the hours of daylight start to increase. This is why our ancestors decided to have a big celebration at around this time every year, and good for them! This means, of course, that we can start sky-watching as soon as everyone is home from school. So, don’t take your coat off but get out and find a really good view of the southwest horizon and look at the glow of the sunset. Jupiter is there briefly, almost impossible to spot but you should see that brightest of planets, Venus. You will have to be quick though because apart from being very close to the horizon, it’ll be gone by about quarter past five.

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Amateur astronomer Brian Watkiss peers into the Village night sky.

Saturn should start to become visible then, just a little higher, but it too has vanished by six-thirty. As the days go by, Saturn gets lower and lower and is gone before the end of the month. That quirky little planet Venus, though, has other ideas. It actually gets higher in the sky and passes by Saturn on the 11th. By the end of the month it will be the bright evening star that we know and love, and on the 28th will look spectacular next to a very slim crescent Moon. The Moon is full on the 12th and, for a few days either side, keep an eye out for a rather special effect. This time of year often produces those hazy clear nights when you can see the stars but they look sort of misty. This is due to very fine ice crystals high in the atmosphere and they can

do something unusual to the Moon. They can refract the Moon’s light and create a halo around it – and if conditions are right, a slight rainbow effect can be seen. It can happen any time of year but I find it more common during these late autumn/early winter nights. It can happen to the Sun too, but less often. Unfortunately, that bright full Moon will tend to drown out the meteors of the Geminid shower which peak on the 14th, but the Ursids on the 23rd are more favourably timed. Just keep an eye on the darkest part of the sky for a few moments whenever you’re out after dark. In the world of space travel, the 4th should see a launch of a SpaceX Dragon cargo vessel to the ISS and just possibly, the 17th might, at last, see the launch of Boeing’s Crew carrying Starliner craft, albeit without a crew. Only time and www.heavensabove.com will tell. I wonder if heavens-above will track that famous reindeer-hauled craft on the 24th? Happy Christmas.

Village Art Bromsgrove artist Richard McIlwraith shines a light on an exhibition of vibrant paintings.

Lynne Sawyer

rapped in a moment of time. A deep stillness – dormant, eternal, quiescent. An illumination – vivid, rich, incandescent. A silence – becalmed, transfixed, spell-bound. The dragonflies, in radiant delicacy, have much to say to us – in our own flitting and fleeting existence.

Inspired by nature

What are those precariouslyperched sparrows thinking? What has snagged their attention? Danger – food – noise? The wandering rhino is surprised by what exactly, out of the picture frame? The exhibition at Artrix may not provide all the answers but it will be sure to draw you closer to the images. The succulent colours and atmospheric textures will welcome and seduce you. Be prepared. These images are examples of the work displayed in an exhibition at Kathleen Watson

Bromsgrove's Artrix arts centre, by Kathleen Watson and Lynne Sawyer – running until January 5. Kathleen and Lynne graduated from Wolverhampton University in 2000. They have exhibited together on a number of occasions across the Midlands. The two artists may be found regularly out in the field, sketching from nature. They both enjoy pushing the boundaries of art with alternative and experimental materials to produce stimulating figurative and abstract work in a wide range of media. This exhibition ex-

plores, and is inspired by, the incredible natural world – in a celebration of texture and colour. Admission is free and the exhibition is open 9am to 2pm Monday to Friday; 10am to 2pm on Saturdays and on performance evenings. The Artrix Café is open Mondays 9am to 2.30pm and on Tuesdays to Saturdays 10am to 2.30pm. Please get in touch if you would like me to write about an art event near you: richard@galleryart61.com www.galleryart61.com

Kathleen Watson

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December 2019

EVENTS Lickey Hills Primary School Christmas Fair is on Sat Nov 30 from 2–4 pm. Santa’s Grotto, a variety of craft stalls and games, pony rides, refreshments and much more. St Leonard’s Church Christmas Fayre is on Sat Dec 7, 11am–3pm, at Beoley Village Hall. Entry 50p, under-16s free. Wide range of decorations, crafts, cards and toys plus homemade cakes, preserves and refreshments. Father Christmas arrives at 12.30pm. Community Christmas Fair at Holy Trinity Church, Lickey on Sat Dec 7, from 11am–2pm. Stalls include a tombola, crafts, cards, produce, cakes, jewellery and more. Light refreshments available. St Godwald’s Community Cafe meets every other Friday (the next one is Dec 6) from 10.30am–12.30pm at St Godwald’s Room adjacent to the Church Hall, Finstall Road, Bromsgrove. Home made scones, cake, tea/coffee available. Come and have a chatter, play board games, jigsaws etc. Alpha course – you’re invited to #tryalpha, explore life, faith and meaning. Weds evenings, 7.30pm @ St Andrew’s Church, Barnt Green. Register your interest at www.bgb.org.uk/alpha

MUSIC Redditch Orchestra presents Ghosts and Ghouls in Barnt Green on Sat Nov 30 at St Andrew’s Church (B45 8NR), making its first-ever visit to Barnt Green in a concert of well-known orchestral favourites with flavours of the bewitched and bewitching. Under conductor, James Lloyd Thomas, and with baritone soloist Tim Cranmore, the programme begins at 7.30pm and includes music by Saint-Saens, Grieg, Orff, John Williams and Gilbert & Sullivan’s Ruddigore. Tickets £12 (conc £10, u16s free) from 07941 692879, redditchorch@ gmail.com or www.theredditchorchestra. co.uk/concerts Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra has a concert on Fri Dec 6, with big band jazz and swing from all eras and two of the best local singers, Lynn Dawes and Garry Rutter. Expect a wide variety of classic numbers and some special big band arrangements of seasonal tunes. There’s real ale and a raffle. Starts 8pm, £6 on the door at Lickey End Social Club, Alcester Road B60 1JT. More info from Geoff on 07970 662692.

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what’s on guide Blackwell Concert Band hold their 9th annual Christmas concert at St Andrew’s Church in Barnt Green on Sat Dec 14 at 7.30pm, with all proceeds once again going to Macmillan Cancer Support. Tickets £5 (adults) and £3 (under-16s) in advance from blackwellconcertband98@ gmail.com or 07891 527089, or on the door. Interval refreshments provided. More info about the band at www.blackwellconcertband.co.uk CMM Community Choir performs the Christmas musical Simeon by Roger Jones on Sun Dec 8 at Holy Trinity Church, Rose Hill, Lickey at 6pm. Entry is free with a retiring collection. All welcome. Hopwood Junction, the eight-piece soul, rhythm & blues band, play at the Hopwood House pub on Fri Dec 13 from 9pm. Free entry. More info from Pete on 0121 445 4022. The Midland Sinfonia presents Bold as Brass with the Holborne Brass Ensemble on Sat Dec 7 at St Laurence Church, Alvechurch at 7.30pm. Includes arrangements of traditional Christmas songs and carols, plus jazz standards and classical favourites. Doors open at 7pm for preconcert bar serving wine, beer and soft drinks. Tickets £13, or £12 in advance from www.midlandsinfonia.co.uk or Gin & Pickles, The Square, Alvechurch. The Asklepios Orchestra (conducted by Lee Armstrong) give a Winter Concert on Sun Dec 8 at 7.30pm in St Andrew’s Church, Barnt Green. Programme: Mozart’s Sinfonia concertante in E-flat major K364 with soloists Frank Handy (violin) and Lydia Handy (viola), and Shostakovich’s Symphony No.12 (in D minor, Op.112) ‘The year 1917’. Admission free – donations to retiring collection much appreciated. BROMSGROVE CONCERTS presents the Callino String Quartet on Fri Jan 17, at Bromsgrove’s Artrix at 7.30pm. Tickets need to be bought directly from Bromsgrove Concerts, either online, by phone, by post or on the night – full details of ticket prices and subscriptions are at www.bromsgrove-concerts.org.uk Alvechurch Acoustic Roots’ 10th season continues on Fri Dec 13 at Alvechurch Social Club. Doors open 7.45pm. Only £5

(£4 concessions) to see some of the very best live music and performance in the area. Keep Music and Performance Live! Alvechurch Community Choir meets at 7.30pm on Mondays in Alvechurch Village Hall, though on the 2nd Monday each month they move to Alvechurch Social Club. The choir is an open access singing group; new members of all abilities are welcome – just go along. In December there are special events each Monday so check if you want to join now! It is part of a charity called Everybody Let’s Sing and is committed to bringing music to a wide community, including a regular choir it runs at The Lawns care home. The choir sings gospel, folk and popular songs from all ages and loves to perform for local occasions – see them at the Alvechurch lights switch-on on Dec 6. Find out more about the choir at the new website, www. alvechurchcommunitychoir.org.uk or ask about booking the choir for an event by ringing Mary on 0121 445 5957. Blackwell Concert Band and Training Band is open to all brass and woodwind players of all abilities. To learn more about the band and find details of upcoming events, email blackwellconcertband98@ gmail.com or visit www.blackwellconcertband.co.uk You will also find information on how to book the band. Singing to Beat, the group for people with dementia, Parkinson’s, MS and other neuro conditions (plus carers, friends and relatives) is now at the Longbridge Retirement Village (B45 8TD) every Weds from 11.30am–1pm. Cost £3.50 for those from outside the village – all welcome. No previous experience necessary. More info from Ruth on 0121 453 6952. Bromsgrove Choral Society’s next concert is on Sat Dec 14 at 7.30pm in All Saints Church, Birmingham Road, Bromsgrove, performing parts from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio and carols for audience and choir. Wine and mince pies available, plus a Christmas cake will be raffled. Tickets £10 on the door or from Eileen Kirby on 01527 871237. The group rehearses each Mon at 7.30pm in St John’s Middle School (Watt Close, Bromsgrove, B61 7DH). New members welcome. Barnt Green Choral Society rehearses each Mon at 7.45pm at St Andrew’s

Village What’s On Church Hall, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green. New members always welcome to this non-audition society. This season’s three concerts are a Christmas Carol Concert on Dec 7, the main Spring concert on March 28 and the summer concert on June 20. More details from Fiona Brown on 0121 445 5513 or visit www. barntgreenchoralsociety.org BROMSGROVE MUSIC Centre (Severn Arts) provides a Wind and Brass Band and a String Ensemble for children in the Bromsgrove/Redditch areas (approx G13). Mondays 6–7pm at St John’s Middle School, Bromsgrove. The first term is free! The centre also provides individual instrumental lessons 4.30–7.30pm. Visit www. severnarts.org.uk/bromsgrove-musiccentre or call 01905 947300. TARDEBIGGE CHURCH choir is seeking new recruits! The choir, based at St Bartholomew’s (B60 3AH) is struggling with declining numbers due to age and health, but still sings in four parts at morning and evening services on Sundays, plus weddings and funerals. They particularly need a bass or bass-baritone, but all parts are welcome! Pop along to a practice on Sat at 10am, or call Robert on 01527 542491. Shamanic Drumming Group meets monthly at Hopwood Village Hall. Drumming for Vitality, Healing and Joy. No previous experience necessary, drums available to borrow. For further details email Andy on Fixedholdsworth@sky.com The Arrow Vale Singers meet on Wednesdays from 8–10pm at Batchley Community Centre, Redditch B97 6PB, including a refreshment break. More info on 07718 113086, www.arrowvalesingers. co.uk or arrowvalesingers@gmail.com A JAZZ Night takes place at Beoley Village Hall on the 4th Wednesday of each month, featuring some fantastic “trad” jazz bands. For further details, or to order advance tickets, call 01527 62584 or 01527 66646 (both before 9.30pm). Alvechurch Sports & Social Club hosts a series of music events including ACOUSTIC ROOTS with a variety of local performers ten times a year, KARAOKE every Sunday evening and LIVE bands. For up to date details visit the Club’s Facebook page or phone 0121 445 2121. BROMSGROVE FOLK Club meets on the second and last Thurs every month at Catshill Club, starting at 8pm. For a full list of

CHECK OUT THE CHOIR ONLINE Alvechurch Community Choir has just launched a new website, www. alvechurchcommunitychoir.org.uk It’s been updated to show what the choir is doing these days, and made easy to use. The choir hopes newcomers to the village (and other people who think they “can’t sing”) will have a look and see what a joyful group it is.

The choir enjoyed singing in the rain at the Pumpkin Festival and are now getting ready for their busy preChristmas period. Catch them at the Alvechurch Switch-on of Lights on December 6, on several Sundays in the Barnt Green Tea Shop, or join then in The Crown on December 9. New members are always welcome.

Photo / Keith Woolford

events call Bob Bignell on 0121 476 5938 or see www.bromsgrovefolkclub.co.uk BROMSGROVE ROCK Choir offers everyone the chance to sing pop, rock and chart songs – no audition needed. Free taster sessions available. More info at www.rockchoir.com or on 01252 714276. Bromsgrove Community Choir meets on Thurs evenings, 6–7 pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Centre, in room 6, at the rear of the building off the small car park. They sing for fun and enjoyment; everyone welcome, singers or not. Contact Ruth Henley for details on 01527 527022 or email r.g.henley@btinternet.com Bel Canto Singers... do you enjoy singing bright and lively pieces? Join in with a friendly group of mixed age singers. The music is a good variety, and the group’s aim is to produce a quality sound while supporting charity. Monday evenings at Crabbs Cross Methodist Church, Crabbs Cross Lane, Redditch B97 5LD. The marvellous men would love more tenor and bass voices! More info at www.belcantosingers.co.uk or from Polly Speers on 01564 822672.

DANCING THE PHOENIX Dance Club at Bromsgrove holds a Christmas Dance on Sat Dec 21 and a New Year’s Eve Dance on Tues Dec 31, at Bromsgrove Council Building,

Parkside Hall, Stourbridge Road, B61 0AZ. Ballroom & Sequence, Latin & Line Dancing to live music. Open to all, no membership required. No bar – bring your own drinks. Free parking. More info from Mick or Thelma on 01527 872634. Aelfgythe Border Morris is actively seeking new dancers (female) and musicians (male or female) to join them for fun, exercise and dancing. They meet at 7.45pm every Wednesday in Alvechurch Baptist Church Hall. Everyone welcome. Come and play traditional folk music, or try morris dancing. For more details call Pam on 07961 830 831. French & Breton folk dancing at Alvechurch Village Hall: usually on the 1st Sat each month, 2.30–5pm. Informal tuition and live music provided. New dancers (and musicians) welcome. £2 per session. For details, email alvechurchfrenchdance@gmail.com Alvechurch Morris Men are on the look out for new dancers and musicians. They practise on Mondays at Alvechurch Baptist Church Hall, 8.30–10pm, followed by a “debrief” at a local hostelry. They dance in local towns and at various local and national events, and perform a worldfamous (sort of ) mummers play in the village every New Year’s Day. No ability, fitness or co-ordination required – if you are male, 18+ and prepared to spend more

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continued from previous page time than is probably good for you in public houses, pop along to meet the group! Drop in to any practice or contact Chris on 07984 570763 or email chris.alvechurchbagman@gmail.com AVONCROFT FOLK Dance Group enjoys anything from barn dances to ones seen in Pride & Prejudice or Poldark. All welcome, no need to have a partner. The group meets every Thurs from 8–10pm at Avoncroft Arts Centre, Redditch Road, Bromsgrove. £2.50 incl refreshments. Info from Liz Stanton on 01905 353995 or liz@ the-stantons.uk or visit www.avoncroftfdg. btck.co.uk DANCE SESSIONS take place every Tuesday from 11am–12noon at the Where Next Hub (Unit 2a, Millsborough House, Ipsley Street, Redditch B98 7AL). Designed for people with special needs, but all are welcome – join Nikki and the team and learn some new moves! £7 per session. Book now on 01527 69330 or nickylevy5@ btconnect.com All proceeds to the Where Next Association. No longer able to dance? Try Wheelchair Dancing instead! Wheels and Toes meets in Harborne each Thurs, 6.15-8pm. Wide variety of dances. More info: Barbara on 0121 458 3686 or marshall8558@hotmail.com THE CIRCASSIAN Circle Barndancing Club runs on the first Saturday each month at Rowney Green Village Hall. £5 per person to include sandwich, tea and cake! More info on 01527 545002. Tea Dances run by Bromsgrove District Council now take place in the new council building at Parkside Hall (Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove, B61 8DA) on the last Tues of the month, 2–4pm, dancing to Brian’s super sounds! £4 entry includes tea/ coffee and biscuits. For further info contact Jan on 01527 881478. Sequence ballroom and Latin dancing every Mon evening at 8pm at the Longbridge Social Club, 1012 Bristol Road South, Northfield. Occasional free tuition. All welcome to a friendly fun-filled dance. For more details contact Kalvin on 07725 265024. BJ’s Busy Boots Line Dancing Classes: Tues 2–3pm Bromsgrove Leisure Centre; 7–10pm Stoke Prior Sports/Country Club. Thurs 12–2.15pm Bromsgrove Methodist Church Centre. Social Dance 1st Sat in month at All Saints Church Hall, Burcot

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Lane. It’s a fun way to exercise. For more details phone Brenda on 01517 870151.

THEATRE Blackwell & Barnt Green Theatre Group has been in existence for over 40 years and only of late has any vacancies for new members. The group makes five or six visits a year, usually to Malvern or Symphony Hall in Birmingham. Membership includes reduced ticket fees and coach travel to the selected venue from the crossroads at Blackwell Post Office. More details on 0791 273 3226 or 0797 100 7604. Rubery Drama Group usually meets every Weds at the Beacon Church Centre, Whetty Lane, Rubery, 7.30 for 7.45pm.

CLUBS, GROUPS & SOCIETIES The Bromsgrove Society’s next talk is on Tues Dec 3 at The Methodist Centre, Bromsgrove, at 7.45pm and is entitled Titanic: The Midlands Connection. Speaker Andrew Lound gives his audio-visual presentation dressed as the Captain of the Titanic and reveals the part played by Midlanders in the story of the ill-fated vessel. There will also be a stall of recentlypublished books about the Bromsgrove area, plus the new edition of The Bromsgrove Rousler. More info at www.bsoc.co.uk Men in Sheds is a group for those who have retired or been made redundant and want to spend time with like-minded people. The Redditch group meets every Tues and Thurs, 10am–1pm, at The Old Needle Works, Britten Street, Redditch B97 6HD. The Bromsgrove group meets Mon–Thurs, 10am–2pm at Unit 1, Metals & Ores Industrial Estate, Stoke Prior B60 4JZ. redditch Military History Society usually meets monthly in St Luke’s Church Hall (Evesham Road, Redditch, B97 4JX), 7 for 7.30pm. More info from Ron on 01527 545450 or ronnieg33b@hotmail.co.uk Alvechurch Friendship Group usually meets in the meeting room at Alvechurch Village Hall on the 4th Weds each month at 2pm – men and women welcome. On Dec 18 there’s a visit from SUSA Kidderminster Ukulele Club for Christmas songs with participation – this will be in the main hall. Visitors £3 to include tea and biscuits. More info from Rosalind on 0121 445 0598. Bromsgrove friendship Club meets at the Life after Stroke Centre, Church Lane,

Bromsgrove B61 8RA on the second Tues each month at 2.15 pm. For more info contact Millie Harries on 0121 445 5232. ROTARY CLUB of North Worcestershire meets on Tues evenings 7 for 7.30pm at Droitwich Golf Club (Westford House, Ford Lane, Droitwich Spa WR9 0BQ). The group has an interesting programme of speakers and events throughout the year and engages in various projects helping to raise funds for local charities. New members welcome – more info from David Gilburn on 0121 445 1456. Alvechurch Village Society holds its Christmas Party on Fri Dec 6, with Musical Bingo, Fish & Chips Supper and BYO drinks. Ticket event – contact Ray on 0121 445 5739. Why not join the Society to enjoy life and help preserve the local environment? Join in with social events, guided walks and maintaining local footpaths. Info from Martin on 07742 100007 or www. alvechurchvs.org Bromsgrove & Redditch Welcomes Refugees (BRWR) is a group of volunteers supporting local refugees who’ve arrived under the government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons’ Relocation Scheme (SVPRS). New volunteers always needed – training and support given. BRWR is open to all, irrespective of political or religious belief. Full details at www.brwr.uk Rubery Community & Leisure Centre is looking for volunteers – if you have a few hours spare on a Friday, you’d be made most welcome. The centre is a registered charity run solely by volunteers. For more info, ring 0121 453 7716 or email office@ ruberyleisurecentre.co.uk Bromsgrove U3A. Retired/semi-retired? Meetings with guest speakers 1st and 3rd Tues most months at Artrix, plus variety of activities and outings: something for everyone. Curious? Call 01527 870449 or see www.u3asites.org.uk/bromsgrove/home Redditch Lions Club meets on the second Weds of each month at the Southcrest Hotel, Redditch B97 4JS at 8pm. For more info call 0845 833 5914, email secretary@ redditchlions.org.uk or visit www.redditchlions.org.uk Burcot Grange invites those living with dementia and their carers to attend the Dementia Lodge Café, held on the 2nd Thurs each month at The Lodge, 23 Greenhill, Burcot, B60 1BJ. Tea and coffee from 10.30am, entertainment from 11am and

Village What’s On buffet lunch from 12.15pm. All welcome. Limited places – RSVP to Kiran on 0121 445 5552 or Burcot.haa@cinnamoncc.com Friends of Bittell Reservoirs is a group of local people interested in preserving the natural environment of the Site of Special Scientific Interest at Upper Bittell, Lower Bittell and Mill Shrub reservoirs, which are important staging posts for migrant birds and wildlife. If you have an interest in preserving this unique environment and would like to help in its preservation and maintenance, contact: Charles Deverill on cdjd26@gmail.com Catshill Carers Group is a group set up specifically to offer one afternoon a month of respite, socialising and occasional speakers to carers in the area. It meets on the last Tues each month in the coffee bar area of Catshill Methodist Church Centre in Golden Cross Lane from 2.30pm for about 1.5 hrs. All carers welcome, as well as those who used to care for someone who may have passed away or is now in a care facility. Tea and biscuits or cake provided – no charge. Contact Sheila (0121 445 2813) or Di (0121 445 3595) for details and encouragement. Burcot Knit & Natter meets weekly on Mondays from 10–12am and 1–3pm at Burcot Garden Centre, B60 1PW. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3.50 to include a drink and cake. Burcot Grange welcomes you to enjoy High Tea (plus entertainment) with other guests and residents, on the 3rd Thurs each month from 2.30–4.30pm. Limited places – please RSVP to Kiran on 0121 445 5552 or Burcot.haa@cinnamoncc.com Bromsgrove Speakers Club meets at The Barn at The Bell at Belbroughton every other Tues, 7.45–10pm. Everyone who wants to gain confidence in public speaking is welcome, but please tell the group that you are coming by using the ‘Visit Us’ page at www.bromsgrovespeakers.org.uk, which also contains full details of events. COFFEE BREAK meets every Friday morning from 10.30am–12noon, in the Parish Centre behind St Andrew’s Church, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green. You will find a friendly and warm welcome – see you soon! For enquiries ring 0121 445 4278. The North Worcestershire Association of the National Trust Supporters’ Group (covering members resident in Bromsgrove,

Droitwich and Redditch), meets at 7.30pm on the 3rd Thursday each month in Tardebigge Community Hall, behind St Bartholomew’s Church. Selection of interesting talks, plus coach outings, rambles, an annual holiday and fundraising activities, with emphasis on FUN! New members always welcome; annual subscription £7.50. More details from membership secretary Betty Millward on 01527 523805 or email bettymilllward36@hotmail.co.uk Central Radio Car Club meets every Friday 6.30–10pm (racing starts 7pm) at Woodrush Community High School, Shawhurst Lane, Wythall, B47 5JW. Members race electric cars LMP & GT12 indoors on carpet. There is a club GT12 loan car if you would like to try your hand at racing. For more information visit www. centralcarclub.co.uk, search ‘CentralRadioCarClub’ on Facebook or call Bob Jones on 01527 870463. Contact the Elderly aims to help isolated elderly people in the village area by offering monthly tea parties where they can reconnect or make new friends in their own community. If you know of an elderly person who could benefit, please get in touch on 07539 276054. Guests need to be aged over 75 and living alone, and must be mobile enough to walk to a driver’s car with assistance. You can find general information at www.contact-the-elderly. org.uk and details of the local group by searching for ‘Contact the Elderly Redditch’ on Facebook. Bromsgrove Photographic Society is a friendly, active and mutually supportive club for those interested in photography and digital imaging. The growing membership includes those with interests in both film and digital techniques, wide-ranging subjects and from highly-skilled photographers to novices. The club meets on Tuesday nights, 8–10pm at the Avoncroft Arts Centre. New members and visitors welcome. For more information, please visit www.bromsgroveps.co.uk ROTARY CLUB OF BROMSGROVE meets every 2nd Tues of the month at Maekong Thai Restaurant, and every 4th Tues at Bromsgrove School, both 7pm for 7.30pm. New members welcome. For more info visit www.bromsgroverotary.org.uk or contact Ron Pearce on 07703 567982. Alvechurch Sports & Social Club has a large Function Room available for hire. It has a bar, choice of two stages, plenty of seating, a dance floor and a capacity of

140. CHARITY fund raising events enjoy FREE room hire. Please book early; for more details contact the Club on 0121 445 2121, visit the Facebook page and leave a message, or email alvechurchssc2015@ hotmail.com Burcot Niddie Noddies spinning group meets on the 3rd Sat each month, 10am– 1pm at Burcot Garden Centre, B60 1PW. Open to all crafters, not just spinners. Bring your own chair. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3 to include a drink and cake. Barnt Green Parish Centre has large and medium sized lounges available for regular hire for some morning and early afternoon sessions each week. Please contact the Parish Administrator on 0121 447 7097. Heart of England Speakers is a small, friendly, public speaking club, based in Knowle near Solihull. It is affiliated to Toastmasters International, and meets on the 1st and 3rd Tues every month, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at the Greswolde Hotel, Knowle. More information at www.heartspeakers.org.uk Redditch Rotary Club meets Monday lunchtimes at the Abbey Hotel, Hither Green Lane, Redditch, B98 9BE. You would be very welcome to join in. Want to be involved, hear interesting speakers, and serve your community? Want to know more? Contact Peter Williams on 01527 60277. midland ancestors usually meets monthly at 7.45pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove, B60 1AS. On Tues Dec 10, Max Keen presents The English Civil War in Worcestershire, dressed as an officer of the period. More info at www. bromsgrovebmsgh.co.uk Common thread is a friendly group of women who enjoy crafts including sewing, knitting, crochet and more, together with tea, cake and chat. For more info contact Maggie on 0121 439 9324 or Jayne on 0121 445 1113. Lickey Valley Trefoil Guild, as a branch of the Guide Association, is open to anyone over the age of 18. Make new friends, travel, explore, serve the community and help Guiding and Scouting in your area. The Guild meets at Barnt Green Scout & Guide Centre (off Blackwell Road, Barnt

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continued from previous page Green, B45 8BT) every second Weds from 7.30–9.30pm. For more info call 0121 445 3907 or 0121 445 2813 or visit www. trefoilguild.co.uk The Birmingham branch of the International Plastic Modelling Society caters to scale modellers interested in a variety of subjects including Aircraft, Vehicles, Ships, Science Fiction and Figures. All ages and abilities welcome, building anything from basic kits to complicated scratch-built models. Meetings take place at Longbridge Methodist Church in the Reception/Cafe area (1654/8 Bristol Road South, B45 9TY) usually on the 3rd Sun each month. You can find more info at: www.ipmsbirmingham.blogspot.co.uk Bromsgrove (1982) Probus Club provides regular opportunities for retired professionals and businessmen to meet socially and share common interests. A members’ meeting is held at Avoncroft Arts Centre on the 3rd Weds each month, 10am–12noon, including refreshments and a talk by a guest speaker. For more info visit www.bromsgroveprobus.co.uk or contact Jim on 01527 833531. Lickey Phab Club is a social club where people aged 14 and over, with and without disabilities, can come together each week to have fun! It is affiliated to national charity Phab (Physically Disabled and Able Bodied). The club meets every Mon from 7.30–9.30pm at The Trinity Centre, Lickey Parish Hall to have fun, play games, do crafts or just chat – there’s also a tuck shop! More info from Louise Edgell on 07814 122990 or lickeyphabclub@hotmail.com Available for hire: The Wheel community room by St Catherine’s Church, Blackwell. Suitable for groups. Quiet, enclosed garden adjacent. For details contact the church office on 0121 445 1425. BEACON LADIES CLUB meets at 8pm on alternate Wednesday evenings at The Hawthorns Social Club, Rednal Hill Lane, Rednal. There is a varied programme of speakers and outings, including occasional visits to the theatre. New members of all ages welcome. £10 annual membership, plus £2 fortnightly. Please ring Barbara on 0121 445 3456 or Anita on 445 3770. THE FRIENDSHIP Club of Barnt Green usually meets monthly at 2.15pm at the Friends Meeting House, Barnt Green. Visitors £3 to include tea and biscuits. On Dec 10 guitarist John Davies leads a Songs for

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Christmas sing-along. For more details call Rosalind Tyler on 0121 445 0598. The Worcester-Birmingham & Droitwich Canals Society meets at the Alvechurch Boat Centre, Scarfield Hill (just a few steps behind The Weighbridge pub) on an “almost monthly” basis. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month, 7.45pm. There is usually a guest speaker and a raffle. Non-members are very welcome to come along. Please visit the website: www. wbdcs.org.uk THE WEDNESDAY Club usually meets on the second Weds each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club at 1.30pm, and offers the chance to make new friends, meet old ones and enjoy talks, demos and visits. Visitors £4 including tea. On Dec 11 it’s the Christmas Lunch. More info from Janet on 0121 447 7870 or Lis on 0121 445 3895. Beoley Good Companions, a group for retired people, meets on the 1st Mon monthly at Beoley Village Hall to socialise and enjoy an entertainer or speaker. Membership £7 per year plus £2 entry charge, to include free raffle ticket. If you are interested, contact Secretary Ken Hawkesford on 01527 61130 or email kenhawkesford@ yahoo.co.uk or beoleygood.companions@ yahoo.co.uk for an application form. COFFEE, CAKE and Chat meets from 10.30am to 12noon on the fourth Friday of the month (not August) in The Wheel at St Catherine’s Church, Blackwell. All welcome; for details, call Rodney on 0121 445 2070. BROMSGROVE RAILWAY Club usually holds monthly meetings at St Godwald’s Church Hall in Finstall, 7.15pm for 7.45 start. There are always refreshments and a book stall, and new members are welcome. On Dec 11 it’s the Club AGM and Christmas party with a mystery speaker and photo competition. More details from Dave on 01527 873800 or Gordon on 01527 873609. KINGFISHER PROBUS Club is recruiting retired and semi-retired men to meet people in a friendly environment. Meetings are held at The Foxlydiate Arms (B97 6PX), every 2nd Thurs of the month at 11.30am. Lunch is followed by an interesting talk given by a visiting speaker. Partners/ friends welcome for walks, trips, golf, skittles and special lunches. For more info visit www.kingfisherprobusredditch.co.uk or contact Chris Bailey on 01527 835802. Bromsgrove Ladies Probus meets monthly for a light lunch with a speaker,

networking and occasional outings. If you are a professional or business woman and are recently retired, or coming up to retirement and would like further info, email bromsgroveladiesprobus@gmail.com LICKEY HILLS Local History Society usually meets monthly at 7.30pm in the Trinity Centre, Old Birmingham Road, Lickey B45 8ES. On Dec 17 it’s The Christmas Social with mince pies and hot punch, followed by Redditch in Pictures: Ooh! I remember that. . . with Geoff Hawkesworth. A look back at buildings and scenes that no longer exist. Annual subscription: £15. Non members: £3 per meeting. More info from info@lhlhs.org.uk or www.ccgi.lickey.plus. com ALVECHURCH HISTORICAL Society usually meets on the first Mon of the month at 7.45pm at the Museum in School Lane, Alvechurch. On Dec 2, Max Keen presents Sir Francis Drake: England’s Greatest Naval Hero. More details from Anne Humphries on 0121 445 5955. New members welcome. Bromsgrove & Redditch Soroptimists host a Quiz Night on Sat Jan 18 at 7.30pm at the Windmill Centre, Rye Grass Lane, Redditch B97 5YE. Teams of 4, cost £10 pp to include fish/chicken & chips. BYO drinks. Tickets from Sue Gee on 01527 66225. Proceeds to family support charity HomeStart. The group usually meets every 2nd Thurs of the month at Burcot Village Hall. New members welcome – pop to a meeting, email sibrsoroptimist@gmail.com or ring 07812 985927. BROMSGROVE PHOENIX NCDS (National Council for the Divorced, Separated & Widowed) Club meets at Lickey End Working Men’s Club every Thurs from 8-11pm. For more info call Mark Waring on 01562 824057, Pam Banks on 01527 759424 or Marilyn Cornish on 01905 778636. TARDEBIGGE COMMUNITY Hall for hire: large, bright facility for functions, clubs, societies and all activities. To book call 07763 446902 or email tchbookings@gmail.com CAN YOU Hear Me? (Communication Forum) usually meets on the 3rd Weds each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club, Birmingham Road, 10.30am–12noon. Both deaf and hearing people are welcome. More details from Pat on 07966 370448. ROTARY CLUB OF LICKEY HILLS meets on Monday evenings, 7.15 for 7.30pm, at Hillscourt Conference Centre (NASUWT

Village What’s On headquarters) on Rose Hill (B45 8RS). For details contact Graham Wiseman on 0121 460 1402. Bromsgrove Astronomical Society usually meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at Bromsgrove Rugby Club (Finstall Road, B60 3DH). Doors open 7.30pm, speakers begin 7.45pm. Admission free on your first visit; refreshments available. On Dec 16 Mike Frost presents An Arctic Eclipse. Observing meetings are also held on the first Monday each month – bring your telescopes. More information on 01527 908331 or www.broms-astro.org.uk The Monday Fellowship Group meets at the Parish Centre behind St Andrew’s Church in Barnt Green at 2.30pm on the second Mon each month. £1 per talk, to include tea and biscuits. For more information, go along or ring Joyce Linford on 0121 272 4443. SILVER THREADS, the Alvechurch club, meets on the first Weds each month at 2pm in Alvechurch Village Hall. You’ll be sure of a welcome in this friendly atmosphere, where members can chat over a cup of tea. There are regular bingo sessions, and occasional days out. New members welcome. More info from Pat on 0121 447 8630. Woodrush RUGBY Club “Old Dogs” meet at 8pm on the first Thurs in the month at the Clubhouse, Icknield Street, 01564 822878. Open to all former players, social members and old friends for a social chat and the odd reminisce over a glass of beer. Join us: call Mike Betts on 07960 303254 or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/woodrush HOPWOOD VILLAGE Hall is available for hire: ideal for parties and gatherings. Contact Ann on 0121 447 7668 or visit www.hopwoodvillagehall.co.uk the MACULAR Society Barnt Green Support Group usually meets on the last Fri of the month (with some exceptions) at The Parish Centre, behind St Andrew’s Church, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green, B45 8NR, 2–4pm. Friendly, self-help group, proving there is more to life than this devastating eye condition. New members always welcome. For more info, ring Wendy on 0121 445 1585 or Alan on 01527 877864.

SPORT, FITNESS & HEALTH FREE coach-led tennis sessions at Lickey Hills Golf Club, Rose Hill, Lickey, B45 8RR every Sat from 10–11.30am. All ages and

abilities welcome, no equipment needed. Sign up at www.tennisforfree.com DNCE-FIT Community Classes! Cofton Village Hall every Thurs. 5.30pm HIIT, 6.15pm Pilates and 7.15pm DNCE-FIT. Just £5 a month membership then £2 a class. More info: Facebook @dncefitcommunityclasses Alvechurch Village Society has two walks in December. On Sun Dec 1, Charlie Simmonds (0121 445 3447) leads Charlie’s Mystery Walk – meet at Tanyard Lane car park at 2.30pm. Then on Thurs Dec 26 it’s the Boxing Day Traditional Walk with Ray and Norma Yarnell (0121 445 5739), meeting at Lickey Hills Visitor Centre car park at 10.30am. PHYSIOTHERAPY: Specialist Orthopaedic, Musculoskeletal and Women’s Health. Muscle/ joint conditions, sports injuries, ante/postnatal, pelvic floor. Over 14 years’ experience. Clinic in Cofton Hackett. Home visits. Contact Leila: 07813 080223, Leila.holmes@physioadvantage.co.uk or www.physioadvantage.co.uk Netball for all ages and abilities at Alvechurch Middle School. £4 per session. Back to Netball (16+) for those who haven’t played since school, includes netball skills and gameplay: Mon 7-8pm. Pay and Play Netball (16+) who just want an hour of netball – Weds 7.30–8.30pm. Walking Netball for those who are less mobile but still want to enjoy netball at a sloweddown pace: Weds 6.30–7.30pm. More info from Pauline Knight on 07540 126814 or pauline.knight@englandnetball.co.uk Facebook: Netball in Alvechurch Martial Arts Class at The Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch, every Tues 6.30–7.30pm. More details from Chris on 07507 696926. Pilates with Lottie Newberry: Physiotherapy-led Pilates classes every Mon evening in the function room above the Red Lion in Alvechurch. Contact Lottie on 07968 450673 or lottienewberrypilates@ hotmail.com. All abilities welcome. Redditch & Bromsgrove Company of Archers meet April–Sept on Mon 6.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Meadow Park Football Ground (by Harris Brush Works – outdoors) and Oct–March on Weds 7.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Studley Leisure Centre (indoors). Really friendly no-pressure club. New members always welcome (juniors from 8 years old, seniors from 18 to 80+, seasoned archers or absolute beginners). Beginners’

courses run throughout the year or taster sessions by appointment. Further info from Steve Thornton on 07811 575162 or 0121 445 5952. Woodrush Rugby: A warm friendly welcome awaits new recruits to the three Senior men’s teams (1st XV-Midlands 3 South), Colts (U180, Women (Wolverines) and Mini & Juniors (Micros U5, Mini/Junior U5/U14). New floodlight pitch, training and clubhouse facilities, extended car park. Experienced RFU-qualified coaches at all levels to provide a safe, secure playing environment for all. The group’s rugby ambitions on the field are matched only by the social life off, so why not give it a TRY? Based at Icknield Street opposite the Peacock Inn, Wythall B38 0EL. Info at woodrushrfc@yahoo.co.uk, 07341 256821, www.pitchero.com/clubs/woodrush Adult Coached Swim Training every Sunday 6pm–7pm at Bromsgrove Sports and Leisure Centre (School Drive, B60 1AY). Contact Andrew Cunnell on 0121 445 5210 or email: bits@bratclub.co.uk. All swimmers welcome. Slimming World at Lickey End Social Club (17 Alcester Road, B60 1JT) – come and join our warm and friendly group, every Thurs at 5.30pm and 7.30pm. More info from Tracey on 07989 105937. Redditch Ramblers is a growing, friendly and sociable group offering a full walks programme including: * A walk every Sun usually 7–9 miles * Once a month, a choice of a Sat ‘A’ walk (around 10 miles) and a Sun ‘B’ walk (about 6 miles) * Monthly Saturday Safari for a more challenging walk * Fortnightly Saturday Strollers (4–5 miles). Newcomers always welcome. In addition, the group arranges holidays, coach trips and social events through the year. Full into at redditch.ramblers@gmail. com or www.redditchramblers.org.uk Physiotherapy-Led Pilates Classes: Mon mornings, Tues & Weds evenings at Cofton Hackett Village Hall. Mother & baby class 11.15am on Mon. 6 lessons for £55, £10 pay-as-you-go. Mixed ability classes to improve muscle tone and posture as well as overall body strength. Details from Beth on 07850 604425 or elizabethalexanderltd@gmail.com Tai Chi: would you like to make a positive change in 2019, help to relax, have a new interest and exercise? Classes at Finstall Village Hall, Wednesdays 2pm.

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continued from previous page Calling all ROCKSTARS! Make some noise in the cardio jam session that is POUND! Every Wednesday 7.30–8.15pm at Crown Meadow School. Contact Leesh Waldron: 07531 625939. Booking required! ZUMBA with LEESH! Come and SHAKE it til you make it, every Monday 7.30–8.30pm at Crown Meadow School. Contact: 07531 625939 for more information! Yoga Really Works: Yoga classes at Saint Nicolas Place, The Green at Kings Norton. Antenatal Thursdays, 6.25pm and Postnatal Fridays 11am (Stretch & Relax with baby). No Yoga experience necessary See www.yogareallyworks.co.uk for more info or Facebook /yogareallyworks BARNT GREEN Sailing Club offers regular sailing, either racing or casual sailing, in beautiful surroundings at Upper Bittell reservoir. For information contact secretary@bgsc.uk Term-Time Yoga Classes: Mondays 9.30– 10.30am, Cofton Hackett Village Hall. Classes £7.50 each with 4 weeks payable up front. Equipment provided. Please contact Sarah on 07970 072038 or hello@ themotorcyclingyogi.co.uk Briar Rose Field Archers is a field archery club based near Bromsgrove. There are two qualified coaches for those interested in taking up the sport. For information contact briarrosefieldarchers@gmail.com Kettlercise classes at Blackwell Methodist Hall, Greenhill, B60 1BL. Mon 7.15–8.15pm, Weds 7.30–8.30pm, HIIT class Sat 8.15am. Kettlebells provided, all welcome. Contact Louise: 07792 229837. Facebook: ‘Kettlercise with Louise: North Bromsgrove’. Junior cricket coaching at Alvechurch Cricket Club runs every Sun from 10am to noon throughout the season, for boys and girls aged five to 11. All abilities welcome to enjoy cricket in a friendly environment. Led by ECB Level 2 or Level 3 qualified coaches. No charge for first session. Refreshments available. Info from Simon Bowron on 07753 621528. For details of coaching for ages 12–16, contact Nick Jones on 07779 267609. Saracen cycling Club is seeking new members. Men, ladies, beginners, and regular riders are all welcome. The longestablished club meets regularly by

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the Tardebigge Pub on Thurs at 10am and Sun at 9.45am. See www.saracenroadclub. com or call Ivor on 0121 453 2287. Barnt Green Fishing Club manages angling on the Bittell Reservoirs complex. Trout and coarse fishing are available. For further information and application forms email the Membership Secretary at bgfcmembership@outlook.com THE RAMBLERS, BROMSGROVE GROUP: Guided walking with our group for pleasure, fitness and fun. Full programme of walks / events throughout the year. More info at www.bromsgroveramblers.webs. com or Martin on 01527 857117 or Peter on 01527 558203. ALVECHURCH WALKING Buddies: join a regular local walk with like-minded people who simply want to go on a local, sedate and friendly walk with no pressure. Wellbehaved owners and their dogs are very welcome. The group meets at 10.30am every Thurs. For more info, search for ‘alvwb’ on Facebook or contact Tony on 07763 468893. SOCIAL TENNIS takes place at Rubery Community & Leisure Centre, Holywell Lane, Rubery B45 9AD on Mondays from 1–3pm. The group would welcome a few more players – just turn up or ring Don on 01527 759 318 for further details. PILates & piloxing: (Pilates and boxing): ALL levels of fitness. Tues (Barnt Green) 7pm (Piloxing Express) and 7.30-8.30pm (Pilates Mat). Alison: 07790 916947, Facebook: ‘@AlisonBFit’, alibenford@yahoo. co.uk, www.alison-personaltrainer.com Longbridge Ladies Cycling Club wants lovely new members! Weekly Weds and Sun rides, hotel and hostel weekends away, cycle camping adventures, social outings and much much more. Beginners and seasoned cyclists welcome. Call Deb on 07738982161, email debweston@aol. com or see www.longbridgeladies.co Mercian Nordic Walking: Walking and exercise activities outdoors at the Ryland Centre and on local walking trails. Ian Northcutt BEM and his colleagues provide instruction and lead fun, friendly groups for all levels of fitness. More info at www. merciannordicwalking.co.uk Alvechurch Cricket Club Pavilion (rear of 6 Birmingham Road) is available for meetings/functions/child and adult par-

ties. Bowling alley, pool table, table football, darts, table tennis, excellent children’s entertainer and DJ. For details/availability, contact Pete Gwilliam on 07960 550884 or petergwilliam@btconnect.com PILATES: ONE-TO-ONE tuition using studio Pilates equipment to improve body awareness, posture and fitness. An efficient mind and body workout – principles learned can be helpful in improving sports performance and functional fitness and managing pain. One-to-one tuition may lead to participation in studio and mat classes. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Call or text 07759 590830, email pilates@steff affleck.co.uk or visit www.steffaffleck.co.uk CATSHILL FC offers youth coaching sessions each Saturday morning at Catshill Middle School, Meadow Road, Catshill, B61 0JW. Boys and girls from Reception age upwards are welcome. Contact Gary on 07462 118920 or see www.catshillfc.co.uk for further info. Astwood Bank Angling Club has 8 lakes, including 2 just outside Alvechurch. Annual membership £63 adult, £48 conc, plus £10 joining fee. £10 juniors (no joining fee). Info at www.astwoodbankac. co.uk or contact Nick Powell on 07713 562495 or abac.membership@virginmedia.com Barnt Green Sports Club holds a Badminton Social Open Evening each Thurs, 8pm to 11pm (Margesson Drive, Barnt Green, B45 8LR). No membership required. Players of all abilities welcome. More info from Nick Butcher on 0121 445 1978 or visit www.barntgreen sportsclub.co.uk One Fit Mama: Mother & Baby Wednesdays, 9.45am at Rowney Green Village Hall. Like us on Facebook: One Fit Mama Alvechurch, Barnt Green & Wythall. NEW Ravens (North East Worcestershire Ravens Rugby League Club) play at Kings Norton Rugby Club, Hopwood Park, Ash Lane, Hopwood. Playing opportunities for men’s open age, juniors, women and girls. Mixed touch every Mon from 7.30pm; open age training on Weds from 7.30pm. Juniors and “little leaguers” train each Sun from 10.30am. Masters RL is played for over-35s, with modified rules to suit different age cohorts. New players always welcome, regardless of experience, as are any supporters to this family-orientated club. Details at www.newravens.net

Village What’s What’s On On Village BROMSGROVE & REDDITCH Badminton Club welcomes players for social and league play. Playing Sunday evenings 5.40 to 7.40pm. Details from Steve Whittaker 07805 051456. mobility session for seniors: Tues 9.30am at Alvechurch Baptist Church. Suitable for seniors who want to improve their mobility, strength and balance. Info from Hayley on 01527 881404. Zumba Gold: Thurs 1–2pm at Alvechurch Baptist Church. A fun, energetic class retaining the vibrancy of Zumba but without the impact and twisting around, to accommodate the more senior participant. More Information from Hayley on 01527 881404. FIVE WAYS Old Edwardians’ Cricket Club at Ash Lane, Hopwood: Junior, Men’s and Women’s teams, come and join in! Open to all. Excellent facilities. Everyone welcome. Coaching for juniors on Fri evenings May to Aug. Contact Mark Tovey on 01527 835031. Tai Chi (Qigong) sessions in Alvechurch Village Hall on Mon 10–11am and Fri 11am–12noon. Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions. Tai Chi also takes place at Hopwood Village Hall on Tues 7pm (beginners) and 8pm (intermediate/ advanced), and Weds 10–11am. More details on 07831 743737, or see www. paintingtherainbow.co.uk for daytime classes and www.kaiming.co.uk for evening classes. AEROBICS classes at Alvechurch School, Birmingham Road, Fridays 6.30–7.30pm (Tues classes suspended until further notice). Lapsed or new members welcome. More info from Tony on 0121 445 1819. Kings Norton Rhinos offers contact and non-contact rugby for children from Reception to Year 12. A safe and friendly introduction to rugby – and plenty of outdoor fun and exercise! Training takes place at KNRFC Ash Lane, Hopwood, on Sundays from 10–11.30am. Contact Simon Thompson on 07968 424585 or visit www. knrfc.co.uk Rubery Taekwon-Do at Waseley Hills High School, Rubery on Thursdays and Bournville College, Longbridge on Fridays, with Yvonne (2nd Degree Black Belt). For more info email yvonne@rubery-tkd.co.uk or visit www.rubery-tkd.co.uk

Hopwood Ladies Cycling Club meets at Hopwood Playing Field on Tuesdays at 11.30 am and Wednesdays at 9.30 am. For more information, visit www.hopwoodladies cyclingclub.co.uk or phone Sheila Evans on 07779 530017.

Marlbrook Pre-School: St Luke’s Church Hall, Braces Lane. Learning through play from 2 years to school age. Mon–Fri, 9am–3pm, term-time only. Contact Tina: 07951 869175 or Sharon: 07913 486619.

Karate classes take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 7–8pm at Hopwood Community Hall. First three Classes FREE. Call Colin on 01527 578880 or 07738 674023 or colin.abbott@homecall.co.uk

New NCT Home Birth Support Group in Alvechurch meets Sunday evenings in the home of a volunteer. All welcome. Meet in an informal atmosphere, share concerns, get information and hear first-hand experiences. More info from Emilie on 07874 927 256 or emiliedeeringbfc@gmail.com

CHILDREN & FAMILIES Pol pol’s Playtime Stay and Play is open for 0–4 year olds, 10am–12noon every Mon, Wed and Thurs at Rowney Green Village Hall. Toys, bouncy castle, crafts, singing, instruments and bubbles at the end of each session. Free tea and coffee. £4 per child and £1 per sibling. Tots Play classes at Bromsgrove Girl Guiding Centre on Tuesdays. Social Tots 9.50am; Discovery Tots 10.50am; Baby Development 11.50am. More info from lucy@ totsplay.co.uk or 07709 453 756. TINY CHURCH Lickey: babies, toddlers and carers meet in Holy Trinity Church, Lickey, on Weds from 11.15am–12.45pm during term times. Games, toys, snacks and stories, with a time to meet together with God. Just pop along or contact clive. rushton@btinternet.com RHYTHM TIME: Award-winning multi-sensory, fun music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Classes in Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Lickey and Bromsgrove: see timetable at www.rhythmtime.net/vt374 or email: rhythmtimevicky@gmail.com BABY & TODDLER swimming classes with Turtle Tots: Thursdays 9.30–11.30am in Barnt Green. Teaching water confidence, key life-saving skills & stroke development. Great post-natal workout! More info: holly. wyer@turtletots.com Every Scout Group in Bromsgrove (which includes Barnt Green, Blackwell, Catshill, Finstall as well as the town centre) currently has girls and boys waiting to join, their numbers restricted by the ratio of adults to young people. A few more adults helping would enable existing leaders to open more Beaver Colonies and Cub Packs and allow more young people to experience Scouting. If you could spare a few hours, call Val on 01527 837060 or visit www.bromsgrovescouts.org.uk

St John’s Baby & Toddler Group meets every Friday morning between 9.15 and 11am during term time at St John’s church hall, Kidderminster Road, Bromsgrove. For further details please contact Cathy on 01527 870048 or just come along. Mum’s the Word playgroup takes place every Thursday in term time 9.30–11.20am at the Ark in Alvechurch. All are welcome, no charge; tea and coffee available for parents and grandparents. Come and join in! blackwell Baby & Toddler Group runs from 10–11.30am every Weds (term-time only) at Blackwell Methodist Church Hall, Greenhill, Blackwell B60 1BL. Small group run by local mums, all welcome. Great chance to meet local families and for your child to make new friends. Any questions please call Carrie on 07985 539983 or find the group on Facebook. Bromsgrove NCT Bumps and Babies Group now meets every Thursday, 10–11.30am at David Lloyd Fitness Centre, Slideslow Drive, B60 1GJ. The group is free and anyone is welcome, including toddler siblings. Contact Claire and Karen at bromsgrove@nct.org.uk Rowney Green Pre-school offers learning through play for children from two years to school age, Tues–Thurs 9am–2pm, term-time only. More info from Rosemary: 07836 770468 or Geraldine: 07725 553894. Lickey End Playgroup runs Toddlers, PreSchool and Rising Stars sessions at Lickey End Methodist Church, B60 1JX. More information on 07791 851382 or at www.lickeyendplaygroup.co.uk MENTOR LINK is seeking volunteer mentors to support children and young people in local schools – full training given. The charity is particularly seeking male

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Mother Goose (pantomime) Dec.18th - 22nd at Artrix, Bromsgrove.

continued from previous page mentors to work with boys for an hour a week, although female volunteers are also welcome. Anyone interested should be a good listener, patient and enjoy working with children and young people. If you can spare an hour or two a week, and you are able to commit to a minimum of six months, call Claire on 07973 572768, email Claire.Quinn@mentorlink.org.uk or for more info see www.mentorlink.org.uk Lickey Baby & Toddler Group meets on Mon and Thurs mornings 9.30–11.30am, term time only. Have a hot drink while your children play in Lickey Trinity Centre (Parish Hall), Old Birmingham Road. For more information call Caroline on 07511 660727, email caroline_rebecca@hotmail. co.uk or find ‘Lickey Baby & Toddler Group’ on Facebook. Barnt Green Preschool has been open since 1978. Open term-time only, sessions run 9am to 3pm Monday and Wednesday, 9am to 1pm Tuesday and Thursday. Offering learning through play in a nurturing home from home environment for children age 2 to 4, there’s lots of indoor and outdoor space to enjoy – the perfect place to start your children’s learning adventures as they prepare to start school. The preschool is proud of its OFSTED report (ref 205125) and offers government-funded places. For more information or to join the waiting list email barntgreenpreschool@ gmail.com or call 07790 017777. The National Childbirth Trust runs antenatal courses in Alvechurch. These are designed to help parents prepare for labour, birth and early parenthood and run over a number of weekday evenings and/ or weekends. For info please call 0844 243 6873 or email bookings6d@nct.org.uk or visit www.nct.org.uk/confidence Finstall Pre-school in Finstall Village Hall, Mon–Thur 9.30am–1.15pm (termtime only). Led by qualified lower primary teacher. Visits welcome; call 07903 560787 or email Finstallpreschool@hotmail.com New Road Parents Support for parents of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans children meets monthly in Aston Fields. A confidential, voluntary, small support group for parents by parents. Individual meetings can be arranged with another parent if preferred. Close links with FFLAG. Visit www. newroad parents.org, email evansmargar@ gmail.com or call Maggie on 01527 832492 for details.

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December 2019

games & COMPETITIONS Redditch Tabletop Gamers meet every Tues from 6.30–10:30pm at the Windmill Community Centre in Redditch. Visit www. redditchtabletopgamers.com for details or email hello@redwarsoc.com The Amphlett Bridge Club meets at Amphlett Hall, Crown Close, Bromsgrove B61 8DW, on Mon evenings. New members welcome, helpful guidance available and parking is excellent. Contact Alistair on 07814 393416. Shirley and Wythall Chess Club meets at Wythall Community Association in Silver Street, Wythall, B47 6LZ, every Thurs from 7.30pm. The club has four teams playing in competitive leagues. Friendly atmosphere. New players are most welcome, either just turn up or contact Barry Knee on 01564 826250 for details. The ALVECHURCH Templars Wargames Club meets most Monday evenings from 6.30pm at the Alvechurch Sports & Social Club. Visit (or join) the ‘Alvechurch Templars’ Facebook page for details or e-mail Karl Farrell at bluenostrils@outlook.com A WHIST DRIVE takes place every Weds from 7.15–9.30pm at Buckley’s Green Community Centre, Alvechurch (B48 7NG). The friendly group welcomes new members. £2 entry, includes raffle ticket and prizes. Monday Bridge Club at Barnt Green Friends Meeting House would like to welcome a few new members – for more info contact the organiser, Des Clarke, on 0121 453 3034. SPADESBOURNE BRIDGE Club plays at Amphlett Hall, Crown Close, Bromsgrove B61 8DW. Join the group for friendly bridge in a pleasant venue on Thurs evenings, 7pm for a 7.15 start. They aim to finish by 10pm. Table money for visitors is £3. Details from Jan on 01905 772256. A “TEXAS HOLD EM” poker tournament will be held on the first Saturday each month in the lounge at Alvechurch Sports & Social Club. Registration from 7pm for an 8pm start. Further info from Karl Farrell on 0121 445 4616 or bluenostrils@outlook.com The Friday Bridge Club plays friendly, competitive, duplicate bridge at the comfortable Burcot Village Hall. New members and visitors are very welcome. Play starts

at the new time of 7pm. For further details phone Gill on 01527 401019. Bromsgrove Bridge Club meets at the Life After Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove each Tues – play commences 7.30pm; doors close at 7.25pm. Table money (to include coffee/tea and biscuits) £3 for members, £4 for visitors, who are always welcome. The club operates a host system, which means a partner is guaranteed. Contact the Secretary, Sally Flood on 01527 832468. A QUIZ takes place every Thursday from 8.30–10.30 pm at Bridley Moor & Batchley Social Club, Bridley Moor Road, Batchley B97 6HS. £1 to enter; all money to the winning team. There is also stand-up bingo with a prize. For more info call quizmaster Dave on 07815 456178. Bromsgrove Board Gamers is a friendly group which meets at 7.30pm each Weds at the Ladybird Inn, Aston Fields. More info on Facebook ‘Bromsgrove Board Gamers’. Rummikub Club meets in the Social Room at Rowney Green Peace Hall fortnightly on Tuesdays from 2–4pm. Entry £2 to include tea and biscuits. You will be made very welcome! Info from Betty Oakley on 01527 63725. “managed” duplicate bridge sessions are run by Anne Glendenning and Eugene Elijah every Tues (1pm prompt start) at Burcot Village Hall, Alcester Road (B4096) – perfect for emerging players. Entry £3.50 covers session, some tuition and refreshments. Info from Anne on 01527 882169 or Eugene on 01527 871255 or 1944@ hotmail.co.uk Barnt Green Duplicate Bridge Club meets at St Andrew’s Church Hall each Weds afternoon and would like new members – contact Liz on 07538 092296. BINGO every Wednesday and Sunday evening at the Alvechurch Sports & Social Club. First games start at 8.30pm in the lounge. Non-members welcome, phone 0121 445 2121 for more info. A popular weekly quiz takes place each Thursday at Alvechurch Sports & Social Club and follows the normal format. Doors open at 8pm. Organise a team, or just turn up and join a team. All welcome. Halesowen Bridge Club offers Chicago Bridge on Thursdays at 2pm in the United

Village What’s On Church Hall, Hagley Road, Halesowen B63 4PX and is seeking new members. All are welcome. Within easy reach of Bromsgrove; parking is available. For info ring Ann Gittins on 0121 550 5246 or see www. halesowenbridgeclub.org.uk

ART & LITERATURE Withybed Poets are a group of poetry writers who meet in Withybed Green to share their poems and write together. They are open to anyone who enjoys writing and sharing poetry. They love reading their poems to audiences, which they do at the monthly Acoustic Roots in Alvechurch, but also for libraries, churches, community groups and festivals. They write poems on request for people and special occasions. Next meeting is Jan 8 at 7.30pm; for details, or to ask about commissioning a poem, ring Mary on 0121 445 5957. BEAD & BANTER @ Lappelli - drop in sessions every Tuesday 6pm–8pm. Upcycle old jewellery or make new beaded jewellery. Have a chat, and a tea or coffee. Call Teresa 07791 702788 or visit lappelli.com All About The Sew holds fun and sociable sewing workshops at Alvechurch Village Hall. For more details call Lorna on 07963 734756 or visit www.allaboutthesew.com Art & Soul Creative – artist and potter offering tutored art and pottery activities in Alvechurch. All abilities welcome. Call Marina on 0121 445 0655, email artand soulcreative.org@gmail.com or visit www. artandsoulcreative.org Forge Mill Creative Textile Group (formerly Forge Mill Embroidery & Textile Group) are a friendly group of enthusiastic local crafters, both experienced and beginners, who meet weekly on Fri mornings at Beoley Village Hall. Various techniques and media are used to create textile artwork, such as printing, dyeing, hand and machine embroidery, along with fabric manipulation. They are a leisure learning and development group and work to a set programme. If you are interested in becoming a member, contact Lynda on 0121 4453212 or Rita on 01527 545973. Alvechurch Readers Group now meets in the library on the last Tuesday of the month from 2pm until 3.30pm. New members always welcome. Please ring the Hub on 01905 822722 and ask for Alvechurch

LOVE YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY! alvechurch library’s Crafty Ladies had a wonderful Christmas craft sale on Nov 18 – their best yet. With lots of money raised for local causes, the library would like to say a massive thank you to all the Crafty Ladies and the fantastic community for supporting them. l The ever-popular Christmas Bedtime

Stories with Father Christmas will be happening on Mon Dec 16 with two sessions – the first from 5.15 to 5.45pm and the second 6.15 to 6.45pm. Cost £2 per child; booking is essential from the library. Spaces go fast so book early to avoid disappointment. l Language tutor Patrick has a few

spaces in his ongoing Spanish class, continuing throughout the winter and spring terms. Email Patrick at vdlt52@hotmail. co.uk or call him on 07708 027372 to see if the level the class is being taught at would allow you to join in. l The very popular Crafty Kids group

usually meets on the 3rd Mon each month, 3.30–4.30pm. It’s for kids aged 7+ who are interested in crafting or learning to sew and knit. Cost 50p! l Chatterbooks Junior Book Club, for

children aged 7–12, meets once a month in the library (free entry). From creative makes, silly comics to book-themed games, there is lots of fun for everyone. l Save the Date: Tues Jan 7, 11.30am–

12.30pm. Something new for the new year! Green Tips is a new group for gardeners and growers to share, support and exchange experience, ideas and seeds. There’s a great selection of gardening books to borrow to complement this new group. l For any enquiries, pop into the library

on Birmingham Road, contact The Hub on 01905 822722, email alvechurchlib@ worcestershire.gov.uk or see Facebook. For Adult Learning courses, pop in to pay by cash/cheque, or online by card.

Library or pop into the library on the Birmingham Road.

Friendly tuition. Call Paul on 0121 445 5437 or drop in.

Barnt Green Art Club runs a morning and afternoon tutored session on Fridays at The Friends Meeting House in Barnt Green. There is a waiting list for both sessions. Call Jackie on 0121 445 4745.

WYTHALL WRITERS meet at the Peter Thompson Room at St Mary’s Church, Shawhurst Lane on the second Thurs each month. New members always welcome. More info from Geoff on 07401 440064, Kevin on 07727 210617 or Terry at jackwalshauthor@gmail.com, or visit www. wythall writers.com

ALVECHURCH Library is available to host day and short courses such as card-making or scrapbooking. If you have a skill to teach or share, call 01905 822722. Burcot Woodturning Club offers a friendly meeting place for woodturners of all abilities and experience. A varied programme includes demos, talks, hands-on practical evenings and visits to exhibitions. The group meets on the first Thurs each month, 7.15–9.30pm at Burcot Village Hall. Info from John on 0121 458 5884 or visit www.burcotwoodturners.org.uk Avoncroft Arts Society at Avoncroft Arts Centre (Redditch Road, Bromsgrove B60 4JR), runs tutored/ non-tutored classes in Art, Textiles, Ceramics, Embroidery and Dance. Contact Alyson or Joyce on 01527 833829 or avoncroftarts@btconnect.com Alvechurch Art Group meets at the Baptist Hall (rear of church) every Tues from 1–3.30pm, using all mediums except oil. All welcome, especially beginners.

THE “CRAFTY Ladies” craft group meets every Monday morning in Alvechurch Library from 10am–1pm, with knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting etc. More info on 01905 822722. LICKEY HILLS ART SOCIETY, a friendly bunch of artists and those interested in art, meet at Longbridge Methodist Church, Bristol Road, B45 9TY, on the first Sat each month at 7.30pm. Open to artists and non-artists alike. For more info call Graham on 0121 453 7097 or come along – the members would love to see you.

HELP & ADVICE Divorced/separated and having trouble seeing your children? Being excluded from their lives? The Association for Shared Parenting has been helping mums and dads deal with the family court system and

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Village What’s On continued from previous page problems over contact and residence for over 20 years. Walk-in support workshops on the first Thurs each month at 7.30pm in Selly Oak (serving the Bromsgrove/Redditch area). Visit www. associationforsharedparenting.org.uk The Library Service at Home provides free delivery of books to people in their own homes. If you are housebound or unable to visit the library then please call Alvechurch Library on 01905 822722 to find out how they can provide you with brilliant reads. Barnt Green Day Care: Thursdays 10am– 2.45pm at St Andrew’s Parish Centre. Offering a day out with care and lunch for older people in the local area. For more info on attending or helping ring Christine Davis on 0121 445 0125. ALVECHURCH LIBRARY hosts one-to-one Computer Sessions for people wanting to learn the basics. If you need help with your emails or advice on surfing online then why not pop into the Library to arrange for free tuition, provided by talented volunteers on Tuesday mornings. For more information please call The Hub on 01905 822722 or pop into Alvechurch Library. REDDITCH & BROMSGROVE Advanced Motorist Group are a local charity committed to helping drivers of all ages improve their driving skills. They meet at 7.30pm on the third Weds each month in Beoley Village Hall. Info from Geoff Poole on 07707 054757 or secretary@redditcham. org.uk

GARDENS & FLOWERS Rosehill Flower Arrangement Society meets at The Trinity Centre (Lickey Parish Hall) Old Birmingham Road, B45 8EU, on the second Monday each month (except January). Refreshments served before each meeting. Meetings start at 2pm. For further info please call Diana on 01527 870549 or Belinda on 0121 447 7477, or visit www.tcandsw.org.uk/rosehill/html ROWNEY GREEN Horticultural Society usually meets at the Village Hall on the 2nd Thurs each month, at 7.30pm. There is no meeting in December as it’s a very busy period for people – so the Committee would like to wish all its members and Village readers a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year, and looks forward to

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announcing the 2020 programme very shortly. For more info contact Lindsay Smith on 01527 592874. Rowney Green Flower Club: You don’t have to be a flower arranger to enjoy watching someone do magical things with beautiful flowers, with the opportunity to win one of the arrangements at the end. The club usually meets on the 4th Thurs of the month at Rowney Green Village Hall at 7.30pm, but its next meeting is a Christmas celebration on Dec 5. Arrive just after 7pm for a festive buffet. Cost £7.50. Guests very welcome. More info from felicityrixon@hotmail.com or 0121 445 2371. WYCHBOLD FLOWER Club meets nearly every 2nd Tues of the month (unless there’s an outing) at 7.30pm in the Royal British Legion Hall, WR9 7PN. The varied programme includes demos, workshops, garden visits and garden party, and there’s also a plant stall and raffle. Visitors welcome – just £4 to include refreshments. More info from Barbara on 01299 851282. Dodford Gardening Club meets on the 2nd Monday each month (except August) usually in Dodford Village Hall at 7.45pm. New members and visitors welcome. More info at www.dodford gardeningclub.co.uk or call Penny on 07706 153618.

come to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with tea and biscuits – you’ll receive a warm welcome and may even be lucky enough to win one of the arrangements. For more info contact Wendy Robertson on 01905 480571. THE NORTH Worcestershire Fuchsia Society meets on the 2nd Weds each month at Bromsgrove Sports & Social Club, 7.45pm. Info from Stewart on 01527 877662.

WOMEN’S INSTITUTES St Catherine’s WI meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday each month, in ‘The Wheel’ at Blackwell. More information from Sue Barratt on 01527 596092 or s.barratt@bnvillej.bham.sch.uk FINSTALL CROSS WI meets at Finstall Village Hall on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. For more info see www. finstallcrosswi.wordpress.com or email finstallcrosswi@gmail.com BEOLEY WI meets on the first Tuesday of each month in Beoley Village Hall at 7.30pm. For more info please contact Georgia Jacobs on 01527 62766. Fairfield WI meets in Fairfield Village Hall on the second Weds of the month at 7.30pm. Contact Carol Hine on 01527 873072 or fairfieldwi1932@gmail.com

Solihull & District Orchid Society meets on the 1st Sat each month at St George & St Teresa’s Parish Centre, Station Road, Dorridge B39 8EZ. New members and visitors welcome, and members are always willing to offer help or advice. For more info or advice call Malcolm Moodie on 01295 788159 or see www.solihullorchidsociety.org

Bentley Pauncefoot WI meets at 7.30pm on the second Tues every month at Bentley Village Hall. More information from Vivien Mackenzie on 0121 445 1245.

Burcot Gardening Club meets on the first Weds each month at Burcot Village Hall. Meetings start at 7.30pm. New members and visitors very welcome. For more info call Jenny or Brian on 01527 522109.

Barnt Green WI meets at the Baptist Church in Barnt Green on the third Thurs each month, from 7.30–9.30pm. More info from Alyson Williams on 0121 445 6577.

Fun Flower Arranging/Floristry Classes and Workshops. Thurs evenings at The Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch. Contact Claire for more information on 07564 339157. Website: www.clairewm.wixsite. com/floralcreations BROMSGROVE FLOWER Club meets on the 3rd Thurs each month at 2.15pm (except Jan) in All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B61 1AF. Visitors always wel-

December 2019

RUBERY WI meets at Beacon Church Centre, Whetty Lane, on the second Wednesday each month at 7.30pm. More info from Judie Fisher on 07810 765314.

Lickey WI meets on the first Tues of every month at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall (Trinity Centre), Old Birmingham Road, Lickey. More info from President Janet Ratcliffe on 0121 445 0163 or see www.LickeyWI. Wordpress.com ALVECHURCH WI meets on the second Monday each month in Alvechurch Village Hall, at 7.30pm. For more information email President Julie Hurlston on presidentalvechurchwi@gmail.com

Village What’s On ARK ANGELs WI meets on the second Monday each month from 7.30pm at the Ark, Alvechurch. For more info email ark.angels@hotmail.com

Blackwell & BURCOT WI meets at Burcot Village Hall on the second Weds each month, at 2pm. For info call President Mrs Barbara Knight on 0121 445 3456.

Finstall & Cofton Hackett WI meets on the first Monday of the month at Finstall Village Hall at 2pm. For more info call President Val Wheeler on 01527 874518.

Hopwood WI meets at Hopwood Village Hall on the first Thurs of the month at 7.30pm. For more information call Ann Thurrell on 0121 447 7668.

Hillside at ALVECHURCH WI meets at 7.45 pm on the first Weds each month at The Ark, Alvechurch. For more info call Pat McDonagh on 0121 628 4121.

Bromsgrove Belles WI meets on the second Monday each month at The Life After Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove, B61 8RA at 7.30pm. From

January, the venue will be the Meeting Room at St Godwald Church. For more info, contact President Helen Holbeche at helenholbeche@gmail.com

To have your event or group listed in this section, send details to Sally Oldaker via the addresses on Page 3, by December 11.

Village Baking

Pies to please a crowd Keen baker Jen Morris, of Rowney Green, makes mince pies with non-traditional fillings.

he flavours of Christmas are not for everyone, and if you don’t like the distinctive tastes of cinnamon, nutmeg or cloves, a lot of festive treats are off the menu. This recipe can be used to make traditional mince pies, or substitute some of the fillings for options to please a crowd: I used plum jam, cranberry preserve and apple sauce, to make a variety. If you have people who want to dodge the mincemeat option, don’t do what I did and mix them all up when I took them out of the tins… mince pie lucky dip! I used shallow, 12-hole non-stick bun tins and the ingredients below made 18 pies. This can be easily doubled and they freeze well.

Ingredients: 375g pack ready-rolled shortcrust pastry l 18 tsp of your chosen fillings l Handful of flaked almonds, to decorate l

For the frangipane: l 100g butter, softened l 100g caster sugar l 2 eggs, lightly beaten l 25g self-raising flour l 75g ground almonds

Method: 1) Pre-heat your oven to 200C / 180C fan / Gas 5, with flat baking sheets on the shelves. 2) Make the frangipane by beating

together the butter and sugar until pale, then gradually adding the egg, mixing to combine. Carefully fold in the flour and almonds, using a metal spoon, so that you don’t knock the air out of the mixture. 3) Unravel the pastry and roll it out lightly, to even the surface and make slightly thinner. 4) Using a fluted cutter that is larger than the holes in your bun tin (my cutter was 3 ½ inches) stamp out circles of pastry and use to line the bun tins, re-rolling the pastry cutoffs as necessary. 5) Put a scant teaspoon of your chosen filling(s) into each pastry case and smooth over.

6) Use a heaped teaspoon of the frangipane to top each pie, smoothing up to the edges of the pastry, to cover all the filling. 7) Sprinkle each pie with flaked almonds and put the tins into the oven, on top of the hot baking sheets (this is for the avoidance of soggy bottoms!). 8) Bake for 20 mins, swapping the trays over at half time. 9) When the frangipane is golden and springs back to the touch, take the pies out of the oven and remove from the tins on to cooling racks. 9) Either serve warm or allow to cool completely, ready for freezing. Happy Christmas!

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VISIT US AT: BROMSGROVE: Saxon Park, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4AD - 01527 835924 STUDLEY: Alcester Road, Studley, Warwickshire, B80 7AG - 01527 857772 KENILWORTH: Leyes Lane, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2DE - 01926 855044 SHIRLEY: 153 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 3AY - 0121 744 0989

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