TheVillage February 2019
villageonline.co.uk
NEWS & FEATURES from Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Blackwell, Burcot Cofton Hackett, Finstall, Hopwood, Bordesley, Rowney Green, Lickey Lickey End, Marlbrook, The Oakalls . . . and everywhere in between!
inside
TheVillage
Issue 198 February 2019
Bringing you village life for more than 20 years
Bright Side of Brexit? Pages 22–24
Care for a Classic Pages 30–31
Editorial: Editor: Sally Oldaker Publisher: Richard Peach The Limes Alvechurch Worcestershire B48 7RR
QUALITY FLOORING. . . AT AFFORDABLE PRICES
Waking the Trees Pages 32–33
Tel: 0121 445 6757 email: news@villageonline.co.uk
To advertise in TheVillage
Restoring a Landmark Pages 34–35
Call Louise Robinson:
0121 445 6757 email:
louise@villageonline.co.uk
visit: villageonline.co.uk The Village (ISSN 1466-3376) is published by Platform Publishing & Media Ltd (Reg Office: 87 Hewell Rd, Barnt Green, B45 8NL) and printed by Buxton Press in Derbyshire. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written consent is prohibited. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any errors made in advertisements or for claims made by any advertisers which are incorrect. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising for any reason. All material submitted for publication is done so at the owner’s risk and no responsibility is accepted by the publisher for its return.
Back on the Water Page 37
Matchday Memories Page 40
Cover: A sign of spring? Snowdrops pictured by reader Dennis Brown, of Hopwood.
Find Us on Facebook: Transform Flooring
Tel: 0121 457 8561 Mobile: 07712 62 63 42 Email: transformflooring@outlook.com
Address: 226 New Road, Rubery, Birmingham, B45 9JH
Village News
SO VANE: Here’s a rare close-up view of the weather vane that usually sits atop Alvechurch Village Hall. The steel structure was made 20 years ago by village resident Charlie Simmonds when the hall was re-
roofed, and is an exact replica of the building itself. It was removed recently for some maintenance by Charlie, and has now been re-installed by local roofer Dave Scriven.
Our fields are not easy pickings, say villagers
V
illagers gave a resounding vote of approval to the Alvechurch Neighbourhood Plan, with 97 per cent voting in favour. The plan is now expected to be ratified at Bromsgrove District Council’s cabinet meeting next month. This will give the plan, developed over the past six years, legal weight in the consideration of any planning applications decided upon by Bromsgrove. Parish chairman Andy Humphries said the referendum sent a strong message to developers who see village green fields as “easy pickings”. The vote in favour was produced by a referendum held on January 10 to get formal backing for the plan from the community. There were 1,629 votes cast, with only 54 of these opposing the plan – presumably opponents were mostly people with interests in developing land in Alvechurch Parish.
The turnout was just over 36 per cent, which is considerably higher than the number of people who come out to vote in local elections. Once adopted, the plan will be the first to reach this stage in Bromsgrove district. Lickey & Blackwell and Cofton parishes are working on a joint plan, while Barnt Green has agreed to pay for a consultant to help its parish develop a plan. Alvechurch Parish Council, which oversaw the creation of the plan, told The Village: “Overwhelming public support for the plan shows that local people are very unhappy at the prospect of major new housing developments unnecessarily diminishing
Green Belt land in Alvechurch Parish. “Large housing developments would mean the road infrastructure would struggle, community facilities like schools and GPs couldn’t cope and key parts of the rural character of the parish would be lost. “Alvechurch demands that development must be sustainable in our parish.” It added, however, that the parish would embrace “future housing growth which is sustainable, meets local needs and doesn’t harm the surrounding environment.” The Alvechurch Plan was put together by a steering group of councillors and local residents, chaired by Coun Adrian Smith, of Hopwood, who led the project from the start. He said: ”Let’s hope our local authority and the Government now give strong support to this communitybacked Alvechurch Neighbourhood Plan.”
The Village
February 2019
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Village News
Green graffiti protest A
n environmental activist is at large in Lickey, daubing pavements, road signs and street furniture with the slogans “Save Our Green Belt” and “Save Our Fields”. Although parish councillors do not know who is responsible or to which fields the graffiti refers, parish clerk Lisa Winterbourn has reported it to the county council and to the parish lengthsman, who is planning a cleanup on his next visit. n Are you the mystery artist? Why not get in touch (anonymously, if you wish) and tell us your story?
Lamp post poo bag initiative
Alvechurch’s Knit & Natter group raised £1,050 to split between three charities through sales of their knitted goods and a raffle with prizes donated by villagers. Cynthia Lawton (second right) presented cheques to Penny Church on behalf of Brain Tumour Research; Sarah James, manager of The Lounge; and Anita Sharma-James, chair of the Worcestershire branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
YOUNG cricketers and their parents pitch in to help clean up Alvechurch Cricket Club after damage caused by a car fire outside the building.
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February 2019
blackwell residents fed up with the scourge of dog mess on the pavements have taken matters into their own hands and installed homemade poo bag dispensers on lamp posts around the village. The parish council is also looking into installing anti-fouling signs. “If we can work out when the deed is being done, we can get Bromsgrove to enforce fines,” said parish clerk Lisa Winterbourn.
Picnic logo design wanted
Village youngsters are invited to design a logo for this year’s Alvechurch Picnic in the Park, which takes place on Sunday May 26 in The Meadows. If you are aged 15 or under, you can enter the competition by coming up with a logo showing what the Picnic means to you and your family. Entry forms can be found at The Lounge, Alvechurch Library and the Parish Council office, or downloaded from the Picnic’s website (www. alvechurchpicnic.org) or Facebook page. Deadline is Friday February 8.
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Village News
Library ‘a special case’ T
he consultation into the future of libraries across Worcestershire has still failed to grasp the scale of the problem it faces in Alvechurch, say councillors. The pre-cost-cutting exercise has now been extended until the end of February, giving villagers more time to respond – although complaints have been made that the proposed ideas would be impossible to implement at Alvechurch Library, which is well-used and serves residents across The Village area. The problem for the county council is that Alvechurch Library is part of a Private Finance Initiative (PFI)
contract the county entered into more than ten years ago. According to the consultation documents, the cost of the library premises alone is £46,400 per year – far more than the suggested “community” library could be expected to raise from local people. County councillor Charlie Hotham told Alvechurch parish councillors: “If the county walked away from it, they would still be liable for all that cost and would need to honour that. “This is not something that was a parish council or a residents’ decision and Worcestershire County Council needs to stand by it.”
Parish councillor John Cypher said: “Alvechurch is the only community library in the county which has a PFI and will therefore need special attention. “You certainly get the impression that they are trying to push it out there into the community and let them take the strain. “But to cover those costs makes Alvechurch a special case and it is really the county council’s problem.” The fact that it is part of the first and middle schools in the village adds to the complexity of the case for Alvechurch. Yet it appears the county had not even consulted with the schools before a recent meeting. Coun Hotham said: “To start with, they said they had consulted with the schools, then the chairman of governors stood up and said he had not been consulted and then the head of the Middle School said he had not been consulted. “There was then a quick meeting between them and they said, ‘Ah, the school has not been consulted’.” Parish councillor Sue Lambert confirmed this, saying: ”I am a governor and I can tell you it has not been discussed at governors’ meetings.” Parish chairman Andy Humphries said: “This is so crucial; it is integral to the school.”
Could you host a French student?
More families in the Village area are needed urgently to host a group of French students this spring. For the third consecutive year, a group of more than 150 students from a school in Rennes will be visiting the area in mid-March for four days. This is a great opportunity for hosts to exchange culture, food and language, although you do not need to be able to speak French to host. Your hospitality will be financially rewarded. For details, call Lisa Mistry on 07702 504495 or email l.mistry@aol.co.uk
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The Village
February 2019
Alvechurch Parish Council News parish council finances
NEWSLETTER WINTER 2019 NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
For six years the parish council had been working on the Parish Neighbourhood Plan to guide future developments to 2030. Local people helped shape the Plan which was scrutinised by an independent examiner, who praised its content. The final milestone has now been passed. In a parish referendum, of 1,629 votes cast, 1,575 supported the Plan with only 54 against. The turnout of more than 36% of parish electors was higher than in many local elections. APC is grateful for such strong community support. The Plan will now be legally adopted as part of the local planning framework… it is the first to be successfully completed within Bromsgrove District and shows that communities like Alvechurch, Hopwood and Rowney Green will embrace future housing growth if it is sustainable, meets local needs and doesn’t harm the surrounding environment. Overwhelming public support for the Plan, though, shows that local people are very unhappy at the prospect of major new housing developments unnecessarily diminishing Green Belt land in our parish. Large housing developments would mean the road infrastructure would struggle, community facilities like schools and GP surgeries couldn’t cope and key parts of the rural character of the parish would be lost. The Plan fits alongside Bromsgrove District Council’s own Local Plan and strategic county council plans for infrastructure and rail investment. It sends a strong message on the meaning of sustainability at a time when Bromsgrove District Council is asking local people for their views on potential Green Belt changes and is considering Birmingham’s demand for “overspill” housing in areas like Alvechurch. The parish council would like to thank everyone who voted. . . and in fact everyone over the years who has supported the Plan as it developed and who helped make it the comprehensive package of documents it is today.
alvechurch library
The parish council has formed a working group to discuss the future of our library with the County Library Service at Worcester. The group has parish, district and county councillors on it, former library staff, representatives of our neighbouring parishes (Barnt Green and Cofton Hackett) and key personnel from our local schools. If you came to the consultation session just before Christmas, you’ll know that high building rental costs from the Private Finance Initiative (PFI) arrangement entered into by Worcs County Council are a major barrier to financial support being given by local organisations. Meetings with the school and other stakeholders are planned for February 1 to look at the flexibility of the current PFI arrangements and the needs of schoolchildren for library facilities. APC is already grateful for advice received from former staff of the County Library Service, who live in Alvechurch.
hopwood playing fields
A decision is expected very soon from the Big Lottery Fund on an application by the parish council and a group of Hopwood “mums”. Around £19,000 has been raised so far towards the expected £30,000 cost of improving play equipment at Hopwood playing fields. The PC will underwrite any funding shortfall if the BLF grant is not fully awarded, and the project is expected to start in spring 2019. Alongside the scheme, APC continues to press County Highways for a pedestrian crossing in Hopwood which would allow parents and children who live in the Ash Lane area to get to any new facilities safely.
January and February are the months when the PC agrees its budget for the next financial year, then sets its precept. All the finance detail is open to public scrutiny and we encourage interested parishioners to contact the office and arrange to have a look at where money is spent and why. We’re keen to hear your views generally on where you would like to see your precept (the proportion of the Council Tax allocated to parish councils like us) spent. Wythall PC this winter has actively involved local people in the budget preparation process and councillors in Alvechurch are looking at the benefits of doing that here. Tell your councillors what you think.
in brief
l In February parish councillors will meet West Mercia Police and the Safer Roads Partnership to again make the case for a fixed speed camera on the A441 in Hopwood. Periodic mobile camera visits as part of a Community Concern Speed Monitoring Programme have failed to bring average speeds below 47mph in the past 2/3 years. l The parish council has a new Assistant Clerk, Claire Mason, who started last November. Claire, like her predecessor Wendy Carney, is supporting the PC’s Planning Committee and she’s settling in well. l Another of Claire’s roles will be keeping an eye on our street lights. Several in the Swans Walk area failed around Christmas and the PC recognises that affects public safety. We’re working with lighting contractor Prysmian to resolve this and ask that residents let us know as soon as they see a street light not working. l The PC is nearing completion of a Community Resilience Plan which will form part of the information available to the emergency services and local organisations.
Contacting the Parish Council
You can contact the Parish Council about any of these issues on 0121 447 8016 or email clerk@alvechurch.gov.uk The minutes of recent PC meetings appear at www.alvechurch.gov.uk and you can find us on Facebook under Alvechurch Parish Council.
The views and opinions on this page are those of Alvechurch Parish Council.
B
urcot Grange and The Lodge Care Home were delighted to welcome general manager Vicky Osborne back from maternity leave. Vicky’s second child, Nancy Elizabeth, is now nine months old and will be looked after by family as Vicky – who also has a three-year-old son, Charlie – returns to Burcot. Vicky has been connected to Burcot for nearly 17 years, having started as a waitress when completing her Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. She then worked part-time as a carer. After sixth form, Vicky took a gap year and worked in admin which helped her realise she wanted a career in nursing. She trained at Birmingham University while still doing some care shifts at Burcot. In 2007, after successfully completing her degree in adult nursing, Vicky came back to Burcot full time as head of care and went on to become deputy and then general manager. Vicky’s family connection with Burcot Grange goes back many years.
Village People
Back at Burcot
Vicky and Nancy with residents and staff Her grandfather worked as a gardener when the Grange was a private estate and her grandmother worked as a nurse when it developed to the Birmingham Eye Hospital.
Vicky says, “It’s been lovely spending time with Nancy – it’s flown by. But returning to Burcot Grange isn’t like coming to work, it’s like being at home with your family.”
The Village
February 2019
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Village News This may be the last Photo by Lisa Edwards photo of the white squirrel that was often seen around Crown Meadow in Alvechurch. It was reported on social media that the creature, nicknamed ‘Snowy’, had been hit by a car and killed, prompting an outpouring of sorrow from villagers – one of whom took the squirrel’s body to be cremated and is arranging to have a memorial plaque erected.
It’s
only just finished and already they’re talking about the next one . . . Christmas, that is. Alvechurch Parish Council has pencilled in December 6 for the big lights switch-on because Bromsgrove’s town crier is free that evening to do the honours. Coun Sue Lambert, who heads the parish’s “Christmas committee” group, said: “I know we have said we need to get it in before Barnt Green – but it’s only a joke.”
A rogue
“parking bay” outside Alvechurch Village Hall is to be investigated. The strip of road (above) between yellow hatching and the start of the official bays is not a designated parking space, yet villagers have been ticketed for parking there over the time limit. Parish clerk Tammy Williams told councillors: “I’ve spoken to enforcement and people should not have got tickets for parking there.”
Network
Rail had still not responded – or even acknowledged – correspondence since a high-level meeting about the future of the car park at Alvechurch rail station, district councillor Kate Van Der Plank told parish councillors. ‘It is very disappointing they haven’t even acknowledged the communication and I am considering the next steps,” she said. Rev Sheri Gidney, chair of the Cofton Village Hall Trust, accepts a cheque for £300 from Muhid Miah, who organised an event at his Cofton Hackett restaurant, Goa Goa, to help raise funds for the new hall – which is due to be completed this spring.
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February 2019
Village Directory
The Village Directory To get your business or service noticed, call Louise on 0121 445 6757
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The Village
February 2019
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Local, reliable service with 40 years’ experience
Village Directory
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Alicia Benbow: Qualified business coach, NLP Master and clinical hypnotherapist Anxiety, panic attacks, stress and phobias Confidence, relationships, career changes l EMDR l Based in Blackwell l GHR registered l l
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Jane Ward Lloyd Morgan 07789 622453 0121 445 6441 morganplumbingandheating.co.uk City & Guilds Fully Qualified Plumber
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Nicky Robinson Aesthetics Aesthetic treatments with qualified medical professional - including anti-wrinkle treatments, fillers, Microneedling, dermaplanning and skin care Fully insured u Certified by Derma Medical u Member of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses Tel: 07843 047688 E: nrobinsonaesthetics@gmail.com Web: www.nraesthetics.co.uk Instagram: @Nickyrobinsonaesthetics u
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Protect your loved ones by making a Will today Sue Jenden Associates u Specialists in Wills, Trusts, inheritance tax planning, and administration of estates u Affiliate member of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners u Meetings in your own home u
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February 2019
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PHILL THE SWEEP
THE ALVECHURCH CHIMNEY SWEEP Professional chimney sweep Fully insured Certificate issued Open fires, wood burners, multi-fuel stoves, smoke draw testing, and power sweeping.
Call for a quote on 07582 520075 or 0121 445 1010 l phillthesweep@yahoo.com
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WF KELLY DECORATORS Interior & exterior Est. 1981
A personal service from a long-established one-man business Self-prepared rooms repapered if required Preparation and painting service Call Liam: 07976 574878 or 0121 445 1265 Based in Alvechurch Roofing, Floors, Kitchens, Doors, 1st & 2nd Fix
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Village Directory traditional Joinery & furniture makers
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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Independent home care agency owned and run by an experienced Registered Nurse Traditional, bespoke, person-centred care Safe, caring, effective, responsive and well-led Registered with the Care Quality Commission
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Are you finding life difficult and in need of some support? My name is Alison Stevens and I am a BACP registered Integrative Counsellor working in Bromsgrove.
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Village VillageViews Views
Libraries should be fu Dear Editor – I attended the public consultation at Rubery Library for the proposed changes to our local libraries and would like to make the following points. Rubery residents were informed that their nearest library was Alvechurch, which certainly poses some problems if you are reliant on public transport. The proposal to have the libraries unstaffed for some of the day was not fully explained, but speaking to library users from different counties they say that the very people (young adults) they are trying to attract are now excluded from the libraries as they are not allowed in unless accompanied by an adult – at a stroke this renders the library useless as a safe place or a place to do homework. The reliance on volunteers to run the library seems to be a very effective way of the council washing its hands of the library problem. As volunteers and borrowers reduce over time they can simply shrug and say, “Well, we tried!” Libraries provide so much for a community and there are many libraries which have been turned around to become vibrant hubs with a forward-thinking service and councils supporting them. I sincerely hope that the many points put to the consultation team by the public are acted on in a way that has a minimal impact on staff and the community. Sarah Amato, via email
Have your say . . . about anything! 18
The Village
February 2019
Lawton’s View
When will the tip farrago end?
Dear Editor – So the saga of the Marlbrook Tip continues. Recent inspections have shown that the landowner has been importing hardcore to the site. The original problem arose because the same landowner imported quantities of material that far exceeded the planning permission granted to him for the development on the site of a golf course and associated facilities. Am I the only person to ask the council to let us know urgently when this farrago will end? Michael Ashton, Cofton Hackett
Tipping point
Dear Editor – On December 13 at 15.20 (3.20pm in old money), as I
turned on to Rose Hill, a line of us followed a heavily-overloaded tipper truck up the hill. It ground slowly, slowly up the hill, never exceeding 10mph. I followed up and over the hill, past the school until we came to the right turn for Alvechurch Highway. Yes, you’re right, it made the right turn and groaned down the hill, round the left hand bend, up the hill and… turned left into the Marlbrook tip site. Tony Hale, via email
The small birds are here!
Dear Editor – Richard Page wants to know where the small birds are (Village Views, January 2019). There has never been a shortage of small birds in Alvechurch. We have always had a variety of birds
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 February 13.
lly staffed visiting our garden, regardless of cats, dogs and children. They are brave and come right on to the patio while we are sat there. The birds have nested in our hedges and bushes for years. And it has been a joy to watch young birds fledge. We seem to have lost a lot of the birds over the last year, only to be visited by pigeons and magpies. But let us remember that they are all God’s creatures and should be welcomed! May I suggest that with the disruption caused by alterations you have done in your garden, you should give the birds time to return. Also, if you have removed hedges, you have removed prospective homes for small birds. Kay and Alf, Alvechurch
Thanks for bin collection Dear Editor – We would personally like to thank Councillor Charles Hotham for arranging to get the grey bins collected after we had missed out before Christmas. On the Saturday before Christmas the grey bin collection was seen on our road at 6am – people were only just putting their bins out as the council website says bins must be out before 7am. There were numerous missed bins. I even asked them to come back to ours as they were just across the road, and they actually just drove straight past. I’m not at all impressed with the service we pay for – even on normal collection days they have been known to leave the bins on the edge of road nowhere near where we left them – but Christmas was awful. After me contacting Coun Hotham, a missed bin collection was organised straight away. Huge thanks to him. Mrs Davis, Barnt Green
Get your facts straight
Dear Editor – On Saturday January 5, I received a note through my letter box asking if I could clear an amount of dog waste from the waste ground at the side of my flat, together with a roll of waste bags supplied. Since the only animal in this property is me, no other animals, they are much mistaken. Can I remind people that a little knowledge is a danContinues overleaf
TheVillage View . . .
W
hat a fine mess party politics has got us all into. After more than two years, the mist has lifted to reveal a Prime Minister more concerned with preventing her party being rent asunder than the future of the country she is supposed to be governing. Events may have moved on by the time you read this, but after the evidence of the paralysis at Westminster caused by party political calculations on both sides of the House, that looks to be an impossibility. What’s the alternative, apart from a queue of enlightened despots? Until now, the party system has generally served its purpose: the push-me-pull-you of alternating ideologies in power takes us all one way and then the other, but we have slowly inched forward all the while. Now it has ground to a standstill, what happens next is anybody’s guess – but the repercussions radiate out to affect us all. Just look at our county council at Worcester, which is no longer able to afford the basics for which it exists to provide. Its libraries “consultation” is just a way to tell everyone: “We can’t afford to keep the libraries open any longer.” They can’t say that, of course, because the county is controlled by the Conservative Party and it is the policies of that party in Westminster that have taken away the money. According to Alvechurch independent county councillor Charlie Hotham, the county’s finances are on the verge of collapse, yet other councillors won’t even countenance a discussion about abolishing the council to create more efficient “unitary” authorities in its place. Turkeys not voting for Christmas is the clear analogy at Worcester, but Bromsgrove district councillors, again controlled by that same party, won’t consider the idea of a unitary council either, refusing even to debate a motion tabled on the matter by Coun Hotham (also an independent district councillor) at the end of last year. There have been other recent instances of the Tory group at Bromsgrove ganging together to prevent good ideas proposed by independent colleagues getting though, such as the independents’ plea to disregard the “Barntchurch” report suggesting up to 15,000 homes on village fields. There is now a chance, however, for villagers to stand up for themselves and not be beholden to party political masters because on May 2 every seat at Bromsgrove will be up for grabs in the local elections. The independents have already made inroads, taking Barnt Green, Hopwood and Alvechurch Village. The Alvechurch South Ward will be ripe for the taking after the widely noted lack of representation by its current Conservative councillor and the Tories will know they are vulnerable in other village wards as they are blamed for the Brexit crisis. Villagers’ votes will really matter, but the independents will also need candidates to stand, people who care about what happens to their villages, and who don’t give a hoot about what some political party thinks. Could that be you? The Village
February 2019
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Village Views continued from previous page
gerous thing, with wrong accusations being made. Swan Street resident, Alvechurch
Parked cars are a real danger
Dear Editor – I recently contacted Worcestershire County Council’s Highways department about the parking situation on Fiery Hill Road. I asked if they could do something to stop parking on the blind bend before there is a serious accident. Dangerous parking on Fiery Hill Road has become an increasing problem. When coming from Twatling Road and turning left towards Barnt Green, at the start of the hill and on a blind bend, cars are parked in a position that allows little chance to brake before running into the back of the vehicles. They also obstruct the view of
any oncoming traffic approaching from Barnt Green, up the hill. The situation has got progressively worse over the last few weeks and is now a serious accident waiting to happen. I believe, along with many other local residents, that there needs to be no parking within at least 30 metres of the blind bend, or preferably no parking at the top of Fiery Hill Road. Highways provided me with this update, which I think may be of interest to other readers: “Thank you for your enquiry. The site has been visited by our traffic engineer and the police, and the current restrictions are considered to be suitable for the situation.” Name and address supplied
Oh, sugar!
Dear Editor – It’s good to have a monthly recipe, but could you and your recipe writer please not
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February 2019
describe something as a “healthy treat” and “full of good ingredients” when it is in fact full of sugar? In a month when we hear that most 10-year-olds have eaten their entire childhood allowance of sugar already, it’s irresponsible. The January recipe has 250 grams of sugar/syrup on top of the already naturally sweet dried fruit, so each bar would have over 20 grams of refined sugar, even without the chocolate. It’s quite possible to make delicious muesli bars with oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit and nut-butter (and even really high-cocoa chocolate) without adding sugar. Eat sugary treats occasionally if you want, but please don’t tell us they are healthy. Mary Green, Alvechurch
The Editor writes: The word “healthy” was not actually used by the writer, but by us in editing it. Sorry for any confusion.
can you spot Vinny?
eight-year-old Joe Chandler, of Alvechurch, 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!). 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!
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The Village
February 2019
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Village Events
the bright side of
Villagers gathered in Alvechurch on New Year’s Day for the annual Mummers’ Play and Morris dancing. More photos overleaf
A
s well as traditional characters such as St George, Sweet Moll, Old Father Time and a dragon made up of local children, the Mummers’ Play always features some newsworthy figures for the crowds to cheer or jeer. This year’s offering outside The Crown at Withybed Green included a waistcoat-clad Gareth Southgate, a housing developer in a hard hat (plenty of boos for him) and a Russian tourist come to visit the village’s church tower, armed with a bottle of poison – plus a revolving door of Brexit Ministers. There was also Morris dancing in The Square from Alvechurch Morris and Aelfgythe Women’s Border Morris, plus visiting sides.
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February 2019
Billy Brexit plays to the large crowd outside The Crown.
of brexit?
Top right: Beelzebub and the Scottish Doctor. Left: The Russian tourist. Far left: Gareth Southgate and the Turkish Knight. Above: Sweet Moll with the Dragon. The Village
February 2019
23
Village Events
Above: Aelfgythe Border Morris. Top right, right and bottom right: Alvechurch Border Morris. Below and below right: Visiting Morris dancers show their moves.
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The Village
February 2019
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Oakalls Village
I
Sarah Rees reports from the Oakalls and Parklands.
n November 2017 we reported on the success of 11-year-old Oakalls resident Danielle Halford, who was ranked 30th in her age category in the European and African rankings for slalom water-skiing. Since then Danielle has extended her capabilities to include the difficult skill of trick skiing and she will soon commence jump skiing, the third discipline that will enable her to become one of the elite number of three-event skiers around the world. In 2018 she enjoyed success in competitions across the country and achieved a personal best in every one. She became the British Girls Under 12 Champion at Trick and Slalom and ended the season 12th in Slalom and 19th in Tricks in the International Water-skiing Federation Under 12s European and African rankings. Danielle has some challenging targets for the coming year, including her aim to be selected for the British Under 14s GB squad. She also hopes to win the Under 14s Girls National Championships. Danielle dreams of being a participant if water-skiing is introduced as a demonstration sport for the first time at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The dream has moved a step closer to reality after she secured some
Water-skiing
sponsorship support from David Lloyd in Bromsgrove. This will help with personal training and physio to ensure she remains fit and is able to overcome injury. She has also received support from James Wimshurst, owner of Move With a Smile sports therapy and personal training. Danielle is now looking for a sponsor to fund new specialist equipment and she will then be ready to hit the big time. Danielle says: “I love sport and the positive feeling I get from training and competing. “I’ve trained with international
experts from the USA and Europe but especially coaches in Lancashire and Cirencester. I train all year long, even when it’s snowing! “I cannot thank David Lloyd Clubs enough for believing in me and my drive to succeed and for giving me this support so that I can also train in the gym to improve my arm, leg and core strength. This is my passion and because it’s huge fun I’m motivated to work hard!” Please contact me with your news, views and concerns about any aspect of life on the estate. Email: oakalls@villageonline.co.uk Santa drops in (Photo/ Marc Lawton)
Finstall lights up
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February 2019
success FESTIVE CHEER for all
Around 250 adults and children gathered for the Oakalls Christmas event. The Blackwell Brass Concert Band accompanied the carol singing and residents enjoyed mulled cider, mince pies, candy floss and soft drinks. The arrival of Santa, courtesy of the Bromsgrove Lions Club, was the highlight of the evening for the children and Santa took time to speak with many of them. Councillor Caroline Spencer said: “Thankfully the forecast rain kept away and it was a wonderful opportunity to bring the local community together. A big thank you to the residents who volunteered their time to help organise the event, sell refreshments and ensure the safety of those attending on the night.” Residents were also treated to another festive delight in December with the return of the Christmas illuminations at Molly and Wendy Molloy’s house in Finstall. After 15 years the couple, who had been featured on national television in the 2013 Channel 5 documentary Britain's Craziest Christmas Lights, decided to stop decorating the exterior of their home in 2015. Molly said: “It seems Christmas is in our blood. After taking a few years’ break, due to family commitments, Wendy and I realised something was missing from our enjoyment of the festive season. We put out a few displays in 2017 but for 2018 we decorated on a much larger scale again. Local residents were really pleased to see the lights return.” He continued: “It’s more personal for us now so there is less pressure to get everything up and running by a certain date. 2019 should see an even better display.”
The Village
February 2019
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Advertisement feature
‘Moderate February’ live seminar I f you are doing Dry January then keep going, writes Julie Ward, alcohol specialist and managing director of ACT Alcohol Ltd. The health benefits are undeniable and taking a break after a period of indulgence is always a good idea. So how about “Moderate February” – now there’s a challenge. Possibly the most important one. If there is a leaning towards bingeing in February because you feel you deserve it, that’s where the benefits of Dry January stop. It’s very common to feel you have proven to yourself that you can go without, but heavy drinking resumes in February. I know, because I have done it myself! I am running a Moderate February Live Seminar on February 9 at the Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove, aiming to equip you with the mindset, strate-
gies and techniques to moderate your drinking in February and beyond. The experience runs from 9.30am–1pm and you will be in a group of no more than 10 people. We will help you understand why you drink, and why you have found it so difficult to reduce or quit in the past. It covers different types of problem drinking and explains the various stages of alcohol dependency. It covers all aspects of drinking such as habit, social drinking, or drinking due to stress, anxiety or boredom, and looks at why as a society we ignore the risks of overindulgence, even though there are so many consequences. This new way of thinking is reinforced by the introduction of unique strategies that you would never have
thought of yourself! We will teach you the techniques we use every day to break alcohol dependency and achieve moderate drinking. You can’t fail to make a change to your drinking after the seminar – it will be an experience you won’t forget. Tickets £50; to book, call Lisa Beddows on 01527 878162 or email your details to bookings@actalcohol.co.uk Alternatively, I have designed a short course which is one-to-one and completely confidential. This will give you exactly the same information presented at the seminar, but in two personal coaching sessions at our Bromsgrove office at a time convenient to you. Text ‘SHORT COURSE’ to 07434 286826 or email bookings@actalcohol.co.uk Look out for my online “Moderate February” online programme which i will be launching in the next few weeks on my ACT Alcohol Facebook page and www.actalcohol.co.uk
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The Village
February 2019
10 Years Ago 20 Years Ago From TheVillage archive
our february 2009 cover featured a frosted rose photographed by Hopwood reader Dennis Brown. Inside was a Wedding Special and the first-ever stargazing column by Brian Watkiss.
From TheVillage archive
Our FEBRUARY1999 cover showed narrowboats at Alvechurch Marina, snapped by Les Ladbury. Inside were features on history, angling and quad biking, plus plenty of “people pics”.
September 2013 – the diggers arrive IN THE NEWS: A scheme to issue speed guns to volunteers in Alvechurch, Wythall and Cofton had been suggested by police, after complaints about speeding traffic. Elsewhere, Lickey and Blackwell residents were being asked for their input on issues such as affordable housing and public transport.
BARNT GREEN Scouts and Guides raised £417.20 towards their appeal for a new Scout HQ appeal by collecting more than 100 metres’ worth of 10p coins. The coins, collected in small boxes issued to each member, were laid out to a length of 104m 59.5cm. a special ale had been created in memory of Paul Newby, an Alvechurch Morris dancer and village footpath warden. Brewed by Dave Smith of Weatheroak Brewery (left) and promoted by Alvechurch & Redditch Real Ale Society, of which Paul was a founder, “Sweet Moll” was named after the character played by Paul in the annual New Year Mummer’s Play. It was sold at pubs around the area.
September 2013 – the diggers arrive
IN THE NEWS: Alvechurch Parish Council had raised its precept in order to pay for an ambitious programme of village improvements. Meanwhile, Tardebigge and Beoley’s village schools were relieved that they were no longer under threat of closure as part of a Redditch education review.
rail enthusiasts were thrilled to watch a Severn Valley locomotive haul a passenger train up the Lickey Incline – but one resident mistakenly thought the train was on fire and dialled 999, causing a fire engine and helicopter to go searching for a blaze. hopwood youngster Joe Halligan was showing off his musical talent around the world. The 11-year-old was a member of the under12s National Children’s Orchestra, having taken up the violin at the age of three, and had already played in America and Japan. The Village
February 2019
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Village Vehicles An unusual project is enabling younger drivers to truly experience ‘classic’ motoring.
A
car owned by a Rowney Green resident was the catalyst for a scheme giving young people the chance to drive and care for a classic vehicle. The Classic Car Loan Project aims to encourage a new generation of classic car owners by giving younger drivers the use of a classic car for up to a year – free of charge. The scheme is the brainchild of classic car enthusiast Bob Wilkinson, and was launched in 2017 when
Chance to LOOK Rowney Green resident Peter Garrett, who owns wedding car hire business Classic Weddings, offered to lend a vehicle from his fleet – a 1929 Ford Model A Phaeton – as the first loan car. Since then, the project has expanded to include 14 vehicles, ranging from a 1934 Morgan threewheeler and a 1960 Vauxhall Victor to a 1983 Austin Maestro – and even
1960 Vauxhall Victor
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February 2019
a 1997 Volvo (yes, 1997 is now officially long enough ago to count as “classic”!) These have all been lent by generous car owners and classic car clubs around the UK, and are available for hire by people aged 25 years or older, who have some level of interest and aptitude – plus access to a garage to house the car. Although the scheme is primarily
aimed at youngsters, older drivers are not prohibited from applying. With no hire or loan charges involved, and the necessary insurance in place thanks to sponsorship from Peter James Insurance, successful applicants are just required to look after the car as though it was their own. Chosen drivers are invited to an annual handover event at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon – which also sponsors the project – where they meet the owners and learn the basics of handling the cars before taking them on the road. Peter, a member of the Ford Model A Owners’ Club, told The Village: “Many young people would love to experience a classic car but they don’t have the funds to own one – and that also means the skills needed to look after older vehicles are being lost. Modern cars have so many electronics that you can’t tinker with them yourself. “The only way to understand what classic cars are like is to drive one and have responsibility for it.” He says that the first person to hire
1934 Morgan Super Sports (three-wheeler)
Owners and loaners at the 2018 Gaydon handover
AFTER a classic his Model A was unsure about it at first, but soon learned to love it: “The man was used to using motorways and A-roads to get around, but he discovered that it was much better to use quiet roads through villages, where people would smile and wave and ask questions about the car. He realised what classic motoring is all about – taking your time and enjoying the drive.” He adds that the experience has already “converted” one driver who went on to purchase a classic of their own. The application “season” usually runs from September to the end of December each year, to allow time for applications to be processed ready for cars to be handed over the following April. However, Bob has extended this year’s application deadline to accommodate two new cars recently added to the fleet. In addition, applicants may declare an interest at any time and await the next phase. As well as encouraging people to apply for a loan car, the project is
also looking for more owners and car clubs to lend their vehicles. “You might have a classic in your garage that you don’t get to drive much any more, for whatever reason,” says Peter. ”But if you can’t bear to sell it, maybe you could consider lending it to the scheme so that it can be enjoyed by someone else.” Cars in the project are normally
at least 20 years old to be eligible for Classic Car Insurance cover, and should be generally roadworthy.
Full information, including details of how to apply, can be found at www.classiccarloanproject. co.uk or by emailing Bob at bobwilkinson49@hotmail.co.uk www.classicweddingsvintagecars.com
‘Queenie’, the 1969 Morris Minor Saloon The Village
February 2019
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Village Events
Waking up after winter The annual Lickey Community Orchard Wassail, held by The Lickey Hills Society and the Lickey Hills Country Park Rangers, saw more than 180 people enjoy the fun – starting in the Visitor Centre where Step on Board strutted their stuff to the music of Bob Bignell and his merry band. Having chosen Rosemary Elvis as Queen Pea and Adam Holloway as King Bean, the procession made its way to the orchard, led by Head Rang-
er Steve Hinton and making as much noise as possible to ward off evil spirits and ensure a bountiful harvest. There was singing, mulled apple juice and an impromptu poem by special guest Spoz, written in 30 minutes! The Mummers Play enthralled the audience with a topical storyline, a handsome Robin Hood, a fearless doctor and Harry Cannab carrying the villain off to hell. More photos at www.thelickeyhills.uk The Mummers
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February 2019
Bottom, from left: Spoz; Queen Pea and King Bean; hanging toast in the trees
Pictures/ Greg and Sian Hunt
Photography by Keith and Simon Woolford
Above: Step on Board.
Walking and wassailing A Wassail Walk from Millennium Park in Barnt Green to Fruitfields Orchard on the outskirts of the village attracted 70 walkers and wassailers. Unlike the previous year’s snowy conditions, the dry and surprisingly mild weather was ideal for two walks of roughly three- and fivemile round trips, all meeting up at Fruitfields, just along from Upper Bittell Reservoir. With warming mulled apple juice and cider, a crackling bonfire and the stars just starting to twitch, everyone wished the health of the apple trees by processing around the orchard, banging pots and pans. Led by a drum and melodeon, they hung toast in the oldest trees to cast away evil spirits and give the birds a few extra crumbs! Fruitfields and Barnt Green Parish Council hope the event will be an annual fixture, so look out for details in December 2019!
Make some noise at the Alvechurch Wassail! Aelfgythe Border Morris has again organised the Alvechurch Wassail, which takes place this year on Saturday February 2. The fun begins at 5pm outside The Crown, Withybed Green with Morris dancing from Aelfgythe and hopefully some visiting sides. A torchlight procession will set off at 6.30pm in the direction of The Weighbridge, where Alvechurch Community Choir will open the Wassail with a carol, with the Green Man conducting proceedings.
Like last year, John Bright's Regiment of Foote will be on hand to fire several musket volleys to scare away evil spirits and wake up the trees. After everyone has made a lot of noise, with many shouts of “Waes Hael” and the traditional response “Drink Hael”, pieces of toast will be handed out for everyone to hang in the branches. The choir will close with another traditional song, and there may be some more dancing depending on the weather. Organisers want people to join
in as much as possible, particularly with the procession and the noisy bits – so bring something such as a football rattle, a whistle, or an old saucepan to bang. There will be a number of electric tea lights in jam jars, and it is hoped that these will be carried in procession by village children. The Weighbridge will have a marquee in the car park so there is shelter if the weather is bad, and there will also be an outside bar so people can get served quickly.
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February 2019
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Village History
Restoring an 80-y The tale of how Tutnall & Cobley parish councillors have rolled up their sleeves to bring a wind pump back to life.
A
once-well-known hilltop landmark is to be restored to its former glory, thanks to a plea from residents and the efforts of parish councillors. What looks like a pile of scrap metal near the trig point on Cobley Hill, between Alvechurch and Tutnall, was once a state-of-the-art Climax Oil Bath Wind Pump, erected by G Lines & Sons Ltd of Solihull in the 1920s or 30s. The well beneath it provided water for local properties – and still does. However, the wind pump – often known as the Cobley Hill Windmill – toppled over many years ago after years of neglect. An elderly resident, Andy Mason, asked Tutnall & Cobley Parish Council, whose remit covers Cobley Hill, if it could it be rebuilt. “Initially the council could not see any benefit to the community and declined, but many other people voiced affection for it,” says Coun Steve Cooper. “The landowner – the late Roger Bence – was amazed at the fondness for this landmark and it was his fervent wish that we should reerect this structure. Unfortunately he passed away before we were able to complete the project.” The Parish Council then received a legacy to help with the costs of the steelwork. Fortunately, Roger Bence had been able to provide a set of diagrams and instructions for as-
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sembling this type of wind pump, probably dating from the 1950s when the structure underwent repairs. Coun Cooper was tasked with assessing the wreckage, and from the remains he came up with a steel-cutting schedule. Bill Duffett and his son Paul, of WD Fabrications in Redditch, won the tender to machine the thousands of parts for this project. It turned out to be rather a complex task with thousands of holes and cutting instructions. In late summer 2018 the steelwork was delivered to the council and in November work began on designing the rotor and vanes. Coun Pete Whittaker started cutting the damaged steel away from the gearbox, and then the trial assembly commenced. The project now has nearly all of the components made and details agreed so work should begin on site very soon – watch this space!
year-old landmark
Above: Paul and Bill Duffett peruse the plans. Below: Councillors Pete Whittaker, Mike Pengelly and Mike Ryan begin the trial assembly (Steve Cooper is behind the camera).
Above: A group including current parish chairman Mike Pengelly, former chairman Geoff Whitehouse, Andy Mason and Roger Bence survey the wreckage.
The Village
February 2019
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Village Leisure
Back on the water
Above: The waters return to the Upper Bittell reservoir. Right: The arrid scene in August when the reservoir was better named Upper Puddle.
Picture: Bob Suggitt
Below: New Year sail – the first race of 2019.
T
he Upper Bittell has been refilling more quickly than expected, meaning Barnt Green Sailing Club was able to hold the first and only home event of its centenary year on Boxing Day. Fish are expected to be returned to the reservoir this month from holding tanks dotted around the national canal system. They were put in these while the reservoir was drained to allow a new valve to be fitted close to the dam wall in June. The reservoir is listed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England and part of the parallel work undertaken has increased the shoreline, giving the bird-watching group a bumper bonus in the last few months with sightings of many rare migratory birds not observed in recent years. n For further information visit the sailing and fishing club Facebook pages or www.sailingbarntgreen.com or contact the Agricultural Officer on 07961 405454. The Village
February 2019
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Pryoritising your house move
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Village Finance
Advertisement feature
Make plans now to fund a child’s future
A
ny new parent will tell you a child is expensive from the outset: there is so much to be bought to cater for a new member of the family. But this is just the first step of many building up to a child’s financial independence. The first ongoing cost encountered is often childcare. There is some government help available, which varies across the UK, but these schemes come with specific requirements and often need supplements because of time constraints or exclusions. For example, “free” childcare for three- to four-year-olds in England may only cover 38 weeks of the year and may not include costs such as lunches.
EDUCATION, EDUCATION, EDUCATION
The costs can jump dramatically at the next stage of education if you choose private schools. Average junior school day fees are £4,342 a term, while at the other end of the journey, sixth form boarding school fees are £11,821 a term, according to an April 2018 report from the Independent Schools Council (ISC). School fees also normally rise faster than general price inflation: fees increased by an average of 3.4% from 2017 to 2018, the lowest rise since 1994. Education increasingly has costs attached for children at state schools as well, whether it be requests for materials from schools or technology requirements such as laptops. Due to reforms in tertiary education, costs can now rise further once university education starts. Again, the rules vary throughout the UK’s constituent parts. Tuition fees are up to £9,250 for English residents at English universities, £9,000 for Welsh residents at universities in Wales, £4,160 for Northern Irish residents at universities in Northern Ireland
Financing a child’s path to adulthood is a long-term commitment, writes Martin Pryor.
– but nothing for Scottish residents attending Scottish universities. Fees are typically financed by loans, which also provide for student maintenance. This is often the first time a young adult will manage their own finances.
OUT INTO THE WORLD?
The result is that graduates can emerge into working life with significant debts, to be repaid out of earnings. For example, in England, repayment is set at 9% of income above £25,000 a year (for a plan 2 loan for courses started on or after 1 September 2012), and loans carry a variable inflation-linked interest rate, currently up to 6.3%. The relatively high interest rate and, in England and Wales, a 30-year write-off period for plan 2 loans, mean that five out of six student loans will never be fully repaid,
according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies. Student debt, potentially running on until a graduate reaches their early 50s, introduces another issue for parents supporting their children: funding the first home. The so-called “Bank of Mum and Dad” has come to the fore in recent years as many first-time buyers have to rely on family assistance to gather enough for a deposit. The picture that emerges is one where a child will need varying degrees of financial support for perhaps the first 25 years of their life. There is no single way for you as a parent – or grandparent – to handle these demands. In some instances, outright gifts may be the answer, whereas in others the use of investment via trusts or even drawing on existing pension arrangements may make sense. The key to any solution is to start planning as soon as possible with professional advice and to integrate the process into your overall financial strategy.
n Contact Pryor Portfolio Management for more information: Tel: 07961 162818 martinpryor@ppm-ifa.co.uk www.ppm-ifa.co.uk
The Village
February 2019
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Village History
Advertisement feature
Matchday memories Your chance to own a piece of Alvechurch FC’s sporting history. . .
W
ith Alvechurch FC enjoying recent success, a Rowney Green resident is looking to share a piece of the club’s history. Steve Ianson was a 12-year-old spectator when the team played Wealdstone in an FA Amateur Cup semi-final in 1966, and he kept the matchday programme as a souvenir. “I came across it recently when I was having a clear-out, and I thought it might be an idea to auction it and raise a few quid for charity,” he says. The match was played at Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea FC, and Steve says he mainly remembers the long journey to London with his grandfather and a friend, and sitting
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outside a pub on the Fulham Road while the men had a pre-match drink. With Alvechurch unfortunately losing the game 1‑0, the day was rounded off with a commiseratory pint at the Red Lion when they got home! The programme, costing the princely sum of sixpence, contains photos and information on both teams, revealing that this was the first time AFC – then sitting fourth in the Worcestershire Combination – had reached the last four of the Amateur Cup, having dispatched Skelmersdale, Stowmarket, Enfield and Crook Town en route. One nugget reads: “The secret of this team from tiny Alvechurch (pop. 4,000) is its wonderful spirit. The headquarters is the village pub, The Crown, where
players, officials and supporters intermingle, and organise ‘off-beat’ social occasions. Last year they held a televised cake-eating competition.” It goes on to say, “Basically they are a team without stars, although many of their fans rate [John] Mason as the best centre-forward in the country.” Well, he had scored five goals in this campaign already. Wealdstone, beaten 4–1 by ’Church in the previous season’s competition (all four goals scored by Mason), not only took their revenge but went on to bag the 1966 trophy. If you are interested in making a bid for the programme, you can contact Steve on 01527 61367. Any money raised will be donated to Breast Cancer Care, which Steve (right) has chosen as his charity during his captaincy of Kings Norton Golf Club. Did any other readers attend this match? Or does anyone else have sporting memorabilia to share? Get in touch with us in the usual way.
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Mark Meads
Equity Release, Mortgage and Protection Specialist
Free up funds from your home and spend more time with your family
If you would like to talk in confidence about your financial needs and future financial planning, please contact me directly on 07730 011897 or mark.meads@villagefinancial.co.uk, for an initial discussion to see how I can help you and your family.
Village Financial Solutions Ltd 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 Personal Touch Financial Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Village Sport Alvechurch are back in the promotion race after an end-of-year dip in form.
A
mixed bag of results in December and early January saw Alvechurch slip out of the play-off places, but they soon recovered their form and were back to seventh in the league as we went to press, with games in hand over some of their rivals. After a win at Royston, with new signing Lee Chilton scoring his debut goal, 2018 ended with two defeats – firstly to Redditch United, who claimed the local bragging rights on Boxing Day with a deserved 4–2 victory.
Mixed fortunes for AFC However, Andre Landell’s 25-yard strike was voted goal of the month and despite the defeat, the goal will live long in the Alvechurch supporters’ memory. The final game of the year was a disappointing 3-0 home defeat to Tamworth, which was followed by a 3–1 away loss to Banbury on New Year’s Day. However, fortunes began to pick up with a 1-0 win at Stratford, another 1–0 against Halesowen Town, and an excellent 3–0 away win against St Neots (notable in that both teams had their captains sent off ), featuring two goals from Lee Chilton. The twice-postponed home encounter with Leiston was due to take place on Jan 29. l In an initiative between Birmingham City FC and local nonleague clubs, three under-18 Blues players are to join Alvechurch. The idea is for the players to mingle with the AFC first team players, travel to away games and gain matchday experience. The three players are central midfielder and defender Tate Campbell,
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Nick Okoro, a winger who can also play as an out-and-out forward, and George Baker, a right-sided full back or midfield player. Everyone at Lye Meadow hopes their stay at the club will be beneficial and enjoyable.
l There have been several recent changes concerning the goalkeeping position. Matt Sargeant has now left the club, to be replaced by experienced goalkeeper Danny Crane. Danny previously played for Rushden & Diamonds in the EFL, and has also represented West Bromwich Albion, Burton, Lewes, Cambridge United, Corby, Solihull and Hednesford in an illustrious career. Special congratulations must go to goalkeeper Tom Parsons, who is just starting his football career and has been promoted to the first team squad. Tom will train with the first team to gain valuable experience and work with the goalkeeping coaches and first-team ’keepers as part of his football education. Central midfielder Rahis Nabi has joined from Burnley under-23s, having played for West Bromwich Albion under-18s. Rahis has also experi-
enced international football having represented England at under-17. AFC are delighted to have resigned attacking midfielder Lee Chilton, who started his career at Lye Meadow in 2002 before moving on to Leamington. Lee has played at the higher level of non-league football, at Halesowen, Stourbridge, Telford and Stafford, and in 2007/08 he was the Midland Football Alliance Player of the Year. Lee has already proved a vital addition to the squad, being voted player of the month for December. Influential centre back Mark Smith has left Lye Meadow and joined Stourport Swifts. Mark played a major part in Alvechurch’s success over the past four years, winning both promotions and cups with the Lye Meadow side, and will be a major addition to the Stourport squad. 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
Village People
Running to beat brain cancer A
Left: Action from the New Year’s Day defeat at Banbury (Photo/ Ian Macvie)
lvechurch resident Jonathan Oseland is getting ready to run this year’s London Marathon in aid of Brain Tumour Research. Jonathan chose the charity because a friend of his, Katie Smith, is currently battling a brain tumour. He hopes to raise the required minimum of £3,000 to help combat the disease, which kills more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet only receives one per cent of the funding of the national spend on cancer research. “I’ve taken part in “Tough Guy” races for charity and I ran the Birmingham half-marathon in 2016, but a full marathon’s going to be a bit different,” says
Jonathan. “I’m doing as much training as I can, although at this time of year a lot of it has to take place in the dark!” You can donate at www. justgiving.com/fundraising/ jonathan-oseland1, and read Katie’s story at www. babiesbooksandbraintumours. wordpress.com
ALVECHURCH ALMSHOUSE charity
VACANCY Congratulations to eight-year-old Harvey Rose for winning Alvechurch FC’s recent competition to design a mascot the club, with his winning design, “Alvin” (above). The competition was judged by chairman Richard Thorndike and manager Ian Long The club would like to thank everyone who entered.
fixtures
PLEASE CONTACT TRUSTEE HEATHER BURDEN ON 07795 202905. FOR FURTHER DETAILS OF THE ALMSHOUSES PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE www.alvechurchalmshouses.org.uk
Could you deliver TheVillage ?
Sat Feb 2 Kings Lynn Town (A) 3pm Sat Feb 9 Bedworth United (H) 3pm Sat Feb 16 Biggleswade Town (H) 3pm Sat Feb 23 Leiston (A) 3pm Sat Mar 2 Rushden & Diamonds (A) 3pm Sat Mar 9 Lowestoft Town (H) 3pm Sat Mar 16 Barwell (H) 3pm Sat Mar 23 St Ives Town (A) 3pm Sat Mar 30 Hitchin Town (H) 3pm February 2019
A PROPERTY AT ALVECHURCH ALMSHOUSES HAS BECOME VACANT AND APPLICATIONS ARE NOW INVITED FROM PEOPLE OVER THE AGE OF 60 WHO HAVE LIVED IN THE PARISH FOR OVER 12 MONTHS AND WHO ARE IN FINANCIAL/SOCIAL NEED.
Closing date for applications: 22 February 2019
All league fixtures unless stated
The Village
Reg. Charity 214948
There is an opening now on and around Hither Green Lane on the Abbey Park estate in Bordesley. You need to be aged 13 to 18 and have an email address, a bank account and somewhere dry where we can drop off the magazines.
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For more information, call Louise on 0121 445 6757 or email: louise@villageonline.co.uk
Village Weather
Could winter still bite? J
Alvechurch amateur weatherman Phil Thomas records the changes.
anuary, at least up until the 18th, was a very bland month from a weather point of view with little in the way of any extremes. Rainfall was very low; only 7.7mm, and only a tiny fraction of the winter wind and rain we normally expect. Although a slightly colder weather pattern began to appear towards the end of the month, the temperatures for January overall will probably end up being fairly near normal.
January 2018 (to the 18th) Mean Max 7.6C 0.9 above average Mean Min 2.1C 0.9 above average Mean 4.8C 0.9 above average Rainfall 7.7mm 11% of average Sunshine 32.4 hrs 64% of average The first seven days of December followed the bland November trend. Following an anticyclone on the 13th, very cold air was brought across the UK. However, from the 16th onwards the month ended with mild grey conditions, leading to a mean maximum of 6.7C, which is 2.4C above the local 30-year mean.
December 2018 Mean Max 9.3C 2.2 above average Mean Min 4.1C 2.6 above average Mean 6.7C 2.4 above average Rainfall 109.6mm 158% of average Sunshine 56.1 hrs 115% of average Yearly Means 2018 Mean Max 14.5C 0.8 above average Mean Min 6.6C 0.8 above average Mean 10.6C 0.8 above average Rainfall 734.5mm 97% of average Sunshine 1541.7 hrs 123% of average Outlook Met Office computer models seem to predict cold and sometimes very cold
weather for the extended outlook. It will be changeable though, with spells of strong winds and rain, turning to snow at times. Overnight frosts will be common and widespread. Snow will mainly affect higher
ground in the north, but there will be a higher risk than usual of snow at lower levels, even in the south. With easterly winds predominating, the driest and brightest weather is likely in the northwest.
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
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Village Stargazing
Stars of the winter sky F
Amateur astronomer Brian Watkiss peers into the Village night sky.
ebruary, and sunset is now five o’clock and getting later –thank goodness. As soon as the sky starts to darken, look to the southwest and you can see Mars is still following us around. It is now no brighter than the first stars to appear, but its colour never fails to give it away. On the 10th, a crescent Moon is just underneath. Full moon, on the 19th, again finds the Moon very close to perigee and in fact, it is slightly closer to the Earth than it was for the eclipse last month. It is also as far away as it gets this year when it is new on the 4th but I can guarantee that this will make absolutely no difference to its appearance on this date. “But where are all the other planets?” I hear you ask, and, after admonishing you for starting a sentence with “but“, I would reply: “Round the other side of the Sun so they are all visible in the morning.” Indeed, if you are up and about around six in the morning you can see Jupiter and Venus climbing up
“Aldebaran is one of the closest stars to us at about 65 million light years away” from the southeast horizon. Later in the month Saturn starts to follow them and they are all joined by a crescent Moon on the 27th. Back to the evenings and this is the time of year when we see the real “stars” of the winter sky. They contain the full range of everything
Taurus
Pleiades
Aldebaran
Orion
that it’s possible to see with the naked eye, from where stars are born to the oldest of all stars. First off, high in the south is the fuzzy patch of stars known as the Seven Sisters or the Pleiades. This is an easily-recognised little cluster of blue stars sitting in, or rather, in front of, a cloud of gas. They are that colour because they are very young and hence very hot indeed. They have probably recently condensed out of the very cloud that they illuminate. To the left and a little below is a very orange star. This is Aldebaran, which sits in a vee of stars forming Taurus the Bull and sometimes referred to as the Bull’s fiery eye. It is at the opposite end of its lifetime to the stars of Pleiades, being very old and approaching the end of its life,
so has cooled and expanded into a red giant. It is also one of the closest stars to us at about 65 light years away. In fact it is so near that a space probe launched 40 or so years ago, Pioneer 10, will pass close by – in two million years’ time! To the left and below Taurus is the king of the winter sky, Orion. This huge constellation dominates the southern sky and is, without doubt, the most impressive of all the visible star patterns. Finally, it is sad to report that the hoped-for launch of SpaceX Crew Dragon is delayed to this month at the earliest because of NASA‘s funding being frozen. This is due to US government in-fighting and indecision. Glad that sort of thing never happens here. The Village
February 2019
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Mary Green looks at the hidden powers of our plants.
I
n the old way of describing the year, February is the first month of Spring. Spring begins with Candlemas in the Christian year or Imbolc in the Celtic pagan year, both of which are at the start of February. At one time Christmas decorations were left in place until Candlemas (a custom apparently surviving just into the 20th century in some places) when winter was officially over. This way of counting spring makes much more sense, as the equinox (March 21) then falls in the middle of spring, just as the solstice (December 21) fell in the middle of winter. As you’ll know if you’ve read my articles in the past, in both traditions the plant of this season is the snowdrop, belonging with the white candles of Candlemas and Imbolc, and one of the few flowers everyone recognises. These days they often
flower quite early, and mine came up by January 9 in this mild winter, so I hope they’re still flowering for Candlemas. Snowdrops are a good example of the hidden powers of plants, which is my theme for this month. They flower so early in the year that most of the insects necessary for them to be pollinated haven’t come out yet. In a mild year they might, but the snowdrops come even through the snow. (Snowdrops protect themselves by having their heads bowed, shedding rain and snow.) So, they need another way of reproducing. Hence the bulbs. It’s no coincidence that most of our bulbs are on springflowering plants. Flowers that grow from bulbs can set seed like other plants. But often they don’t. Instead they store up in their bulbs the nutrition they have absorbed. The leaves die down and take the nutriments down into the
Celandines growing on tree
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Plant WIsD
February 2019
Village Country Diary Snowdrops
sDOM
Wild daffodil wood
bulbs, and these will come up again, or can split into two and create a new plant. That’s why it’s important never to cut off or mow the leaves of bulb plants. Snowdrops are best moved by digging them up while in leaf and after flowering – “in the green” as it’s called – which is more successful than planting bulbs and far more than using seeds. Animals like eating bulbs, not surprisingly as they are full of nutrition. Squirrels and badgers are both known for this, as well as rats and mice, especially with tulip bulbs. That’s why many plants carry poisons in their bulbs to deter them. Both snowdrops and daffodils carry galanthine: perhaps tulips are too over-bred to have it. Of course, a poison is the same as a drug. In too great quantities snowdrop and daffodil bulbs are poisonous to us. There have been reports
Early Comma butterfly on celandines
of people eating daffodil bulbs by mistake for onions and being ill. But in the right quantities, galanthine is a drug now being used to treat dementia. This is just one example of how old plant-based remedies are being rediscovered by modern science. (I have just recovered from a wound dressed with a seaweedderived packing. Seaweeds were traditionally used to heal wounds). You may wonder why almost
all our drugs originally came from plants, since plants’ purpose in life is to reproduce themselves, not to cure human ailments! Well, because plants can’t move, the substances they carry are their best defence against predators. These poisons are produced more strongly when the plant is under stress: if grown without any danger it may not produce them. Hence, daffodils are continues overleaf The Village
February 2019
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Village Country Diary
Wild garlic leaves continued from previous page being grown way up on cold Welsh mountainsides to produce the best galanthine. Plant substances meant as deterrents are often not entirely poisonous to us. Some, like galanthine, aspirin and so on, can be used as drugs and have always been used in herbal medicine. Others carry bitter flavours which put insects and other creatures off eating them. These plants are also often highly nutritious, traditionally forming important sources of food for us.
Snowdrop wood
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February 2019
them. So cultivated cabbages and Wild plants in the cabbage and lettuce families, and fruits of everything tomatoes are higher in sugars but less nutritious than their more bitter from tomatoes to cocoa, have been originals. You can still taste some of bred from wild plants to become our the original bitterness in kale and foods. The bitterness of the original Brussels sprouts, and especially plant is often a clue to its high nutriin chicory. tional content. Coltsfoot Unfortunately, at some Rememberpoint in our culture ing that plants we developed a produce more taste for sugar, and substances if gradually bred the under threat, bitterness out of it matters our plants and the how they are sweetness into grown. Something grown without stress in a climatically-controlled greenhouse won’t produce all its native trace elements. Plants also need to take in the complex of elements from the soil and the mycorrhizal fungi in it that will allow them to produce these. Nowadays many plants are grown hydroponically (i.e. in water with some added fertilisers) for sweetness, evenness and high yield, and lack all this complexity. Something grown in the soil of your allotment with your home-made compost, struggling against the weather, will be far better for you!
Cuckoo pint
Snow on yew
Hazel catkins
Or you could eat wild plants – but not bulbs of snowdrops, daffodils or bluebells. There is one family of bulbs you can eat, starting at this time of year. Wild garlic or ramsons, and its cousins wild leek and Cornish garlic, come into leaf from February and you can take a few leaves if you have permission. It grows well in gardens, especially Cornish or threesided garlic, which I’ve been eating since December. Other early flowering plants have clever ways of protecting themselves. The first two bright-coloured flowers along the canal towpath in February are coltsfoot and celandine, both yellow and attractive to insects. As the weather can be very cold and wet at this time, these flowers only open in the sunshine, when the early insects will be flying. If a celandine is open in the shade, it has already been pollinated. Both these plants are old medicines. Coltsfoot was used for coughs, and you can still buy cough linctus with coltsfoot. The large, soft leaves come later in the year and were dried and used as a smoking tobacco. (Herbal tobaccos were used before the coming of actual tobacco, and later as a substitute for it, and were usually less harmful.) Celandines were used to treat piles. These early flowering plants’ survival techniques pale into insignificance next to our strangest plants – the carnivores. We have one true native carnivore, the sundew. This plant has leaves surrounded by bristles, which close over insects and then produce an enzyme which digests them. Sundew grows in boggy, peaty areas in the north and west of England, Wales and Scotland. It was used for centuries continues overleaf
Shepherd’s purse
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February 2019
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Village Country Diary continued from previous page
to produce a medicinal potion, especially to help the digestion of meat. Other plants like cuckoo pint and butterwort also make sticky substances to attract flies. Shepherd’s purse is something that grows commonly all around here – it lives on waste ground and in the cracks along pavements. You’ll recognise it: a small whiteflowered plant in the same family as bitter-cress, thought of as a weed, but having very distinctive heartshaped seed pods. These shed tiny seeds which fall on hard ground and have very little to grow on. However, when they get wet, they expand and form a mucilage around them. This attracts insects to feed on it, but also contains a toxin which kills the insects. The seed then absorbs the proteins from the insects, enabling it to grow on hard ground and be a highly successful plant. This reminds us that there is no such thing as a weed in nature.
Butterwort
Winter robin
However, the plants we think of as weeds have something in common – they are very successful! Hence, they are often the ones with strong substances in them, many of which are usable for us as food or medicines. They are all around you in
February, coming up alongside the paths, ignored by most people. Here is a February poem from a couple of years ago, and a thank you to all the people who organise and take part in all the walks in this area.
Walking Everywhere there is mud and cherry-plum blossom And the grey clouds let slip occasional spits of rain We set off together but are soon straggled The striders and the natterers and those whose dogs Need help through the stiles, and time to sniff. I need time to sniff really, but I keep up Moving up and down the line to talk and see. We cross the Meadows and greet the ancient oaks Pass the new houses, talk about house prices. We discuss cherry plums and how to eat them (As a sauce for pork) and the blackthorn, so early, And the mandarin drakes whose female has appeared (A little toy duck, undercoated, not painted) We speculate if they are dad and son. We wonder Where the cob has gone from the swan family. Around the fishing lakes there’s no-one there – Sunday afternoon, and no-one fishing – Everyone else by the fire or in the car. Here we are, walking, in the mud and blossom.
Celandines in the sun
Native daffodils
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February 2019
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Village Gardening
Don’t miss a garden treat C
all me an old cynic if you like, but when anyone tells me they have a great opportunity for me, I assume there is a catch – and there often is! However, in the case of gardens opening for the NGS (the National Garden Scheme) the opportunity is to view some of the best gardens in the county, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a piece of delicious homemade cake – and often buy a plant or two at very reasonable prices. You may also pick up a few gardening tips and ideas shared by the garden owners! The catch? Well – apart from paying the entrance fee, there isn’t on. Added to which by visiting the gardens open under the scheme you will be supporting charities such as Macmillan Nurses, Marie Curie, and Parkinson’s UK. Last year the NGS gave over £3 million to these and a few other organisations, all of which was raised by folks visiting local
The Village
gardens and enjoying a great day out in an English garden. How’s that for a great opportunity? What’s more, you don’t have to travel far for some amazing gardens – and indeed some that don’t open every year – so it’s a good opportunity to visit them while they are open. This year gardens attached to no fewer than eight properties in the small hamlet of Withybed Green will be open to the public on Sunday June 30 from 1 until 6pm. Worth putting that in your diary as these gardens only normally open every two years, and this year includes two brand new
Azalea ‘Exbury Hybrid’ and rhododendron
Sedum touched with frost
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Dave Morgan looks ahead to garden openings across the Village area.
February 2019
gardens: 1 Front Cottages and 1 Rear Cottages. 1 Front Cottages has a small garden with patio, summer house, lawn, borders and a variety of plants in containers. In contrast, 1 Rear Cottages is only really starting out on its journey as a garden, in that it is effectively a blank canvas at the moment – with just a log cabin that has been built to get even closer to the countryside views that surround the property. However, owners David and Serena have a vision of what they want the garden to look like and it will be interesting for visitors to see it now and then again in two years’ time when Withybed Green, hopefully, will be open again. Among the other gardens open in the hamlet are a number of other small cottage gardens plus some considerably larger ones, including one very well-respected rose garden that has been featured on TV gardening programmes such as Gardeners’ World. Another local opportunity this year is at Marlbrook Gardens. This group, which for many years included three separate but very different gardens, was reduced to two five years ago when John and Janet Morgan decided to retire their garden, Saranacris, from the NGS. After last year’s opening, garden owners Alan and Lynn Nokes, of Round Hill Garden, also decided to retire from the scheme due
Saranacris
Saranacris to health issues. However, John and Janet have now decided to re-open their garden – possibly for one last year. So not an opportunity to miss! Saranacris is a small but unusual and steeply sloping garden created in a former sand quarry by the owners. It’s a plantsman’s garden crammed full of a wide range of plants, where you will find well-loved favourites growing among the rare and unusual. Water is the theme throughout, with a stream, waterfall and koi pond as well as a number of small informal ponds and water features. Overall, the garden is designed in rooms separated by a range of natural features or informal planting and a network of paths allows the visitor to wander around in differing ways opening up a variety of views and vistas. There is a glasshouse on the patio planted with a range of semi-hardy plants; examples include gingers, Abutilon and a large Tibouchina with its wonderful purple blooms in
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late summer. Another feature of the garden is the roof terrace and conservatory, primarily home to John’s collection of gingers, accessed from the patio via a spiral staircase. Visitors can sit and linger on the roof terrace with refreshments while taking in this mid-level view of the garden. The other garden in the Marlbrook group is Oak Tree House, which will also open on its own in May for an
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evening opening with wine for the visitors, whereas the two gardens together will open on July 21. So now’s the time to get hold of the new Worcestershire NGS county leaflet, available from most good garden centres and libraries, and start planning for visits to some of the area’s wonderful gardens. You can also find out more from the NGS website – www.ngs.org.uk Devon Finney Tree Surgeon NPTC Qualified Fully Insured
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February 2019
53
Village Art Bromsgrove artist Richard McIlwraith meets local poet and illustrator Penny Turner.
H
ead to The Jinney Ring Craft Centre and seek out a small ground floor studio-shop, from where Penny Turner greets you with a smile. The room sets your imagination firing: lines of enchanting poetry spark your own creative impulse; fascinating illustrations of whimsical, gleeful characters add visual dimensions to the carefully crafted words. Penny dreams up, writes and draws. The result of this triple-process is a powerful set of appealing scenes and stories that have the potential to entertain the whole family and to introduce us all to playful and hilarious characters and situations. You can imagine Penny chuckling away quietly to herself as she exquisitely brings to life her comic thoughts. The room is full of captivating gifts. There are illustrated books, greetings cards, giclÊe prints, mugs, money boxes, coasters and cushions. You feel a charming atmosphere of delight and humour, a heart-warming ambience that leads to laugh-out-loud moments when the unique creations adorning the walls and shelves capture your attention. Penny is self-taught and has committed herself for the past five years to this beautifully creative life. She loves wildlife and our Worcestershire countryside – this is clear in her irresistibly jolly and heartfelt poems and pictures. For example:
The moon was blue, all soft and pale As I hitched a ride on a giant snail. We sailed a lake, its waters pink, With a friendly cat in a kitchen sink. We sailed, and sailed, and sailed away Till the night became the colour of day, And met a bird with rainbow wings That flew us home on lemon strings. Her latest book is titled Four Little Mice and is sure to combine drama and frivolity, charm and wit: a mustbuy indeed. Penny gives talks and
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Imagination & illustration
The Little Teapot
Four Little Mice book cover presentations at local groups or clubs, revealing the ideas behind her poetry and the various techniques used to bring ideas to fulfilment. So, I hope readers make a special journey to the Jinney Ring (Hanbury Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, B60 4BU) and drop in on Penny to see and
read for themselves the entrancing work on display. For more details, visit www.penny-turner.co.uk or email penny@penny-turner co.uk Please get in touch if you would like me to write about an art event near you: richard@galleryart61.com www.galleryart61.com
Village Photography
Barnt Green photographer Mark Winson gives us a preview of his first exhibition.
City faces and places V
illage readers may remember our “Guess the Close-Up” series from a couple of years ago, in which we published photos of landmarks around Alvechurch. Mark Winson, who took those pictures before he moved from Alvechurch to Barnt Green, says he has been honing his skills over the past two years – and he’s now holding his first-ever photography exhibition, in Harborne during the whole of February, featuring images of people and places around the Bullring Markets and Digbeth area.
“I’m relatively new to Birmingham, so enjoy roaming the city streets and losing myself in the more colourful, vibrant parts of town,” says Mark. “I’ve always been drawn to markets, the sights sounds, the bargains and of course, the people. After a few daunting visits to the Bullring Market and Digbeth, where my camera and I felt a little conspicuous, I soon settled into a more comfortable approach, usually finding a perch or leaning post and just waiting for something to happen. “Instead of looking back through
sepia-coloured glasses, I wish my images to be contemporary and reflect the exciting times we live in – and try to capture the sounds, smells, noise and colour of the markets and surrounding area as they are now. “I hope you enjoy my images and if you feel a desire to pick up a camera and follow your creative instincts, don’t let any lack of technical knowhow stop you – get out there, be brave, bold and express yourself!” The exhibition is at the Basement Cafe & Bakery, 374 High Street Harborne, B17 9PY, throughout February.
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Village What’s On
celebrate books in barnt green
A
brand new festival is coming to Barnt Green this spring, promising a fabulous day of giggles, drawing, amazing storytelling, and a wonderful chance for children to meet their favourite authors. Barnt Green BookFest is a spin-off from Bournville BookFest, which has had many requests to bring its events to a wider area. It’s organised by Busy Parents Network, a not-for-profit CIC founded by Sarah Mullen, who wanted to run fun, high-quality and affordable events for families to enjoy together. Bournville BookFest began in 2013 and has grown to include 120 events over 10 days. This year, three one-day events – Barnt Green BookFest, Solihull BookFest and Sutton Coldfield BookFest – have joined the BookFest family, so that the team can bring authors, artists,
EVENTS A Barn Dance takes place on Sat Feb 9 at Rowney Green Village Hall, in aid of the Where Next Association (helping people with learning disabilities to fulfil their potential). Bar opens 6.30pm; dancing begins at 7.30pm. Tickets £10 to include your first drink (pint of beer/small wine/ prosecco/soft drink). For tickets or info, call/text Sue on 07715 951012 or MariaElena on 07961 320291. A Quiz & Supper Evening hosted by The Midland Sinfonia takes place on Fri March 8 at 7.30pm. This annual fundraiser is an entertaining general knowledge quiz, taking teams of up to six with singles accommodated. Entry £9 pp to include supper. Usual bar available or corkage payable. Booking essential on 0121 447 7040 or 07889 147861 or midlandsinfonia@gmail. com A QUIZ Night in aid of Primrose Hospice takes place on Thurs March 28 at the Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove B61 9AB. Food is included (sandwiches/chips and wedges) and served from 6.15pm, before the quiz at 7pm. Entry £75 per team (max 5 people per team). To book, visit form.jotformeu. com/Vietec/quiz St Godwald’s Community Cafe meets every other Friday (the next one is Feb 1) from 10.30am–12.30pm at St Godwald’s Room adjacent to the Church Hall, Finstall Road, Bromsgrove. Home made scones,
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storytelling events and workshops to even more children. Barnt Green BookFest takes place on Saturday March 16 at St Andrews Parish Centre, and is sponsored by Oulsnam estate agents, who have supported the Bournville events since 2013. Steven Lenton, illustrator of World Book Day edition Cruella and Cadpig,
will be doing a live draw-along show for two- to six-year-olds. Steven will also appear together with author Tracey Corderoy, with their picture book Shifty McGifty and the Missing Masterpiece (ideal for kids aged three to seven). Catherine Doyle will present The Storm Keeper's Island, a spellbinding adventure book for seven- to 12-yearolds, and there’s also a How to Write Funny Stories workshop, with comic Ian Billings, who wrote the scripts for CBeebies' Gigglebiz and ChuckleVision. Perfect for seven- to 12-year-olds who want to make their mates laugh! The full programme and tickets are available from www.bournville bookfest.com
what’s on guide cake, tea/coffee available. Come and have a chatter, play board games, jigsaws etc. Alpha course at Barnt Green Baptist Church – explore life, faith and meaning. Each Weds at 7.30pm. Register at outreach @bgb.org.uk or see www.bgb.org.uk MESSY CHURCH For All! This event is held on the third Sunday most months at Catshill Methodist Church from 3.45pm, to include games, singing, crafts and a story on a Bible-based theme, and simple meal around 5.30pm. Free entry and a warm welcome for all. More info from James Knott on 07968 110 631. ‘Quiet Space’ at Alvechurch Baptist Church takes place each Mon and Fri from 10am–12 noon. The church is open as a quiet space, with “welcomers” on hand to help if required, for anyone who would like to come and find peace and rest for as long as they need. For more info, call Revd Fiona Lee on 0121 447 7369, email revfiona@alvechurchbaptist.org.uk or visit www.alvechurchbaptist.org.uk
MUSIC Following Alvechurch Baptist Church’s Christmas Tree Festival in aid of homeless people, The Choir With No Name – made up of homeless and recent-
ly-homed people from the Birmingham area – will give a concert at the church (Red Lion Street) on Sat March 9 at 7.30pm. Tickets on the door, £8 each or £30 for 4 tickets. Refreshments available in the interval. The Bromsgrove Young Musicians’ Platform Finalists’ Concert takes place on Sat Feb 23 at 3pm in Routh Concert Hall, Bromsgrove School. Showcasing young musicians aged 9 to 17 who live or attend school within a 30-mile radius of Bromsgrove. Finalists selected by earlier audition. Winners will be awarded generous bursaries to help develop their talent. Tickets £10 (under-18s free). Purchase tickets online – limited availability on the door. Full details can be found at www. bromsgroveplatform.com Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra’s first 2019 concert is Fri Feb 8 at Lickey End Social Club, Alcester Road, Bromsgrove, B60 1JT. It consists of Big Band Jazz favourites from all eras from the 1930s to the present, with everything from old favourites by the likes of Glenn Miller and Count Basie to modern arrangements by Tom Kubis or Gordon Goodwin. Popular regular singer Garry Rutter mines the repertoire of Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin and Michael Bublé. There’s also real ale and a raffle. Music starts 8pm, entry £6 on the
door. For more info call Geoff on 07970 662692.
previous experience necessary. More info from Ruth on 0121 453 6952.
BROMSGROVE CONCERTs presents two events this month at Artrix in Bromsgrove, both starting at 8pm. On Fri Feb 8, Endymion – made up of Krysia Osostowicz (violin), Stephen Stirling (horn) and pianist Michael Dussek – will perform music including Ligeti, Beethoven and Brahms. Then on Fri Feb 22, The Lawson Piano Trio - Francesca Barritt (violin), Rebecca Knight (cello) and Annabelle Lawson (piano) will play Music from the Near East, featuring Rachmaninov, Shostakovich and Dvorak. Full info can be found at www.bromsgrove-concerts.org.uk and on Twitter and Facebook. Tickets in advance from Artrix on 01527 577 330 or www.artrix.co.uk or on the door.
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 midland Sinfonia presents My Funny Valentine, on Sat Feb 16 at St Laurence Church, Alvechurch. Bar from 7pm, concert starts 7.30pm. The Fret & Fiddle Jazz Quintet will perform a selection of jazz standards with a Valentine’s theme, including Fly Me To The Moon, Embraceable You, I’m in the Mood for Love and many more. Tickets £12 on the door or £11 in advance from Gin & Pickles (The Square, Alvechurch), 0121 447 7040 or www.midlandsinfonia.co.uk Barnt Green Choral Society rehearses on Mondays at 7.45pm in St Andrew’s Church Hall, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green. The Spring concert is on March 23, comprising Rutter’s Gloria and Chilcott’s Jubilate. The summer concert on June 15 is a Gilbert and Sullivan evening. New members always welcome – if you are interested come along to a rehearsal, ring Fiona Brown on 0121 445 5513 or visit www.barntgreenchoralsociety.org Blackwell Concert Band 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
The Cats Chorus is described as “a fun choir for people who love to sing but don’t have to be vocally gifted”, and meets on Tuesdays (term-time) at 7.30pm in The Wheel, Blackwell. They sing hits from the 60s to the present day. For more info, email sharoncatschorus@yahoo.com 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. 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. 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. They will be at the Alvechurch Wassail on Feb 2. Find out more about the choir at www. lets-sing.co.uk To ask about booking the choir for an event, or for details of sessions and venues, ring Mary on 0121 445 5957. 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 acoustic ROOTS usually takes place on the last Friday of each
month at Alvechurch Social Club. Starts 8pm sharp and still only £4 ( £3 concessions) to come and hear some of the West Midland’s finest live performers. 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 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. Free taster sessions available. More info at www.rockchoir.com or on 01252 714276. Cantare Daytime Choir meets on Fridays 9.15–10.15am at Alvechurch Cricket Club – everyone welcome. Do you enjoy singing with other people? Don’t worry if you think you can’t sing, or don’t read music, everyone is welcome. You can even bring your kids/babies if they let you sing. Whether you want to perform in concerts or simply sing for fun, for the therapeutic or health benefits gained from group singing, why not come along for a free trial session? For more info contact cantarechoir2011@gmail.com, call Rebecca on 07803 900154 or see www. cantarechoir.com 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 (pop, retro, musical and popular classical), and the group’s aim is to produce a quality sound whilst supporting charity and community fund raising. The singers meet on Monday evenings at Crabbs Cross Methodist Church, Crabbs Cross Lane, Redditch B97 5LD. The marvellous men would love more tenors and bass voices! If you enjoy singing, or would like to try something new, the
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continued from previous page group would love to hear from you. More info at www.belcantosingers.co.uk or from Polly Speers on 01564 822672. Alvechurch Samba Band, Banda Sem Nome, is looking for new recruits! This local community side meets on the 1st and 3rd Thurs each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club at 8pm. Go along if you fancy having a go at something a little bit different and discovering your hidden talents! No previous experience required, all welcome (u16s must be accompanied by an adult). More info from Andrea on 07867 858099.
DANCING 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 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 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. 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. 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 Sequence ballroom and Latin dancing every Monday evening at 8pm at the Longbridge Social Club, 1012 Bristol Road
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South, Northfield. Occasional free tuition. All welcome to a friendly fun-filled dance. More details from Kalvin on 07725 265024. 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. 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 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 THE PHOENIX Dance Club holds Social Dances, Ballroom & Sequence Dancing twice a month on Sat nights at Bromsgrove Council building, Parkside Hall, Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove B61 8DA. Next dates are Jan 12 and 26. Free parking. No membership required. No bar facilities – please bring your own refreshments. More info from Mick or Thelma on 01527 872634. 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. 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 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 Wednesday 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 Feb 19 at The Methodist Centre, Bromsgrove, at 7.45pm and is entitled Charles II: My Ancestors’ Part in his Restoration. Speaker Roger Pendrill will recount his own ancestors’ role in the future monarch’s epic journey during his escape from parliamentary forces in 1651. More info at www. bsoc.co.uk 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 Bromsgrove U3A. Retired/semi-retired? Meetings with guest speakers 1st and 3rd Tues most months at Artrix plus a 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 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. 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’
Village What’s On page at www.bromsgrovespeakers.org.uk, which also contains full details of events.
40 years of loving language
Burcot Knit & Natter meets weekly on Mondays from 1–3pm at Burcot Garden Centre, B60 1PW. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3 to include a drink and cake.
On Sun Feb 24, WORDS will be celebrating 40 years of bringing the best of the written and spoken word to Bromsgrove! The special party at Artrix will start at 2pm and will include an afternoon of talks and discussion with playwright David Edgar, journalist Robert Crampton, and Radio One Controller (and Bromsgrove boy) Ben Cooper. This will be followed by a buffet reception and an exhibition of the highlights of the last 40 years of WORDS, finishing at about 8pm. Invitations will be sent to founder members of WORDS and all members for 2017 and
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. Alvechurch Village Society holds a Supper Evening at The Weighbridge Inn on Weds Feb 27 at 7.45pm, with good food and entertainment. Ticket event – contact Grace Hampson on 0121 445 1683. 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 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. 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. 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
2018, and there will also be a limited number of tickets (priced £20) available to the public – these can be purchased from the Artrix box office on 01527 577330 or at www.artrix.co.uk Since its foundation in 1979, WORDS has been presenting Bromsgrove with an annual programme of talks and performances showcasing new writing as well as exploring our international literary heritage. For more information on WORDS, email info@bromsgrovewords.com or visit www. bromsgrovewords.com Right, from top: David Edgar, Robert Crampton, Ben Cooper.
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 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. ROTARY CLUB OF BROMSGROVE meets 2nd and 4th Tuesday every month at 7pm for 7.30pm at Rosado’s Restaurant, 2 Finstall Road, Bromsgrove, B60 2DZ. New members welcome. For more information 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. 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 (sometimes the date is changed to avoid clashing with model shows or holiday periods). You can find more info at: www.ipmsbirmingham. blogspot.co.uk 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 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 midland ancestors meets monthly at 7.45pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove, B60 1AS. On Feb 12, Mary Bodfish presents The Baby in the Locket, on how she solved the mystery of a family heirloom. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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
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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 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. 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 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 only £7 per year plus £2 entry charge, which includes a free raffle ticket. If you are interested in joining the group, contact Secretary Ken Hawkesford on 01527 61130 or email kenhawkesford @yahoo.co.uk or beoleygood.companions @yahoo.co.uk for an application form. 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 Feb 18, Professor Jocelyn Bell Burnell presents Transient Astronomy, Bursts, Bangs and Things that go Bump in the Night. 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 FRIENDSHIP Club of Barnt Green usually meets monthly at 2.15pm at the Friends Meeting House, Barnt Green. On Feb 19, Sue Clegg presents Fingerprints for Detection & Intrigue. Visitors £3 to include tea and biscuits. For more details call Rosalind Tyler on 0121 445 0598. THE WEDNESDAY Club usually meets on the second Weds of 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 Feb 13 it’s the AGM and Beetle Drive (postponed from Jan due to the cricket club fire). More info
from Janet on 0121 447 7870 or Lis on 0121 445 3895. LICKEY HILLS Local History Society meets monthly at 7.30pm in the Trinity Centre, Old Birmingham Road, Lickey B45 8ES. On Feb 19, Don Hazzard and Rick Simpson present Louisa Ryland’s Gift to Birmingham – a remarkable Birmingham woman who endowed the city with a beautiful gift. Annual subscription: £15. Non members: £3 per meeting. More info from George Gascoyne, Hon Secretary on 0121 453 6320, or ccgi.lickey.plus.com 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 Feb 13, Karl Jauncey and David Richards present Preserved Steam on Video. 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. Soroptimist International of Bromsgrove and Redditch meets on the 2nd Thurs each month at 7pm at the Southcrest Manor Hotel, Pool Bank, Redditch B97 4JS. New members welcome. For further information contact Hazel on 07799 482444. 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 ALVECHURCH HISTORICAL Society usually meets on the first Mon of the month at 7.45pm at the Museum in School Lane, Alvechurch. On Feb 4, it’s the AGM and a look at the archives. More details from Anne Humphries on 0121 445 5955. New members welcome. BROMSGROVE PHOENIX NCDS (National Council for the Divorced, Separated & Widowed) Club meets at Lickey End Work-
Village What’s On ing 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 Wednesday each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club, Birmingham Road, from 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 headquarters) on Rose Hill (B45 8RS). For details contact Graham Wiseman on 0121 460 1402. 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. 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 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 445 1884. Woodrush RUGBY Club “Old Dogs” meet 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 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 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. Redditch & Bromsgrove Company of Archers meet Oct–March on Weds 7.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Studley Leisure Centre (indoors), and April–Sept on Mon 6.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Meadow Park Football Ground (by Harris Brush Works – outdoors). 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. Physiotherapy-Led Pilates Classes on Monday mornings and Weds evenings at Cofton Hackett Village Hall. 6 lessons for £50. Mixed ability classes to improve muscle tone and posture as well as overall body strength. Pilates Retreat at the Bromsgrove Hotel and Spa on Sat Feb 9, 9am–5pm. For full details contact Beth on 07841 477363 or elizabethalexanderltd@ gmail.com 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! 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. Tai Chi: would you like to make a positive change in 2018, help to relax, have a new interest and exercise? Classes at Finstall Village Hall, Wednesdays 2pm. 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! Yoga Really Works: Yoga classes at Saint Nicolas Place, The Green at Kings Norton. Antenatal Thursdays, 6.25pm and Post-
natal 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 Alvechurch Village Society’s next walk is on Feb when Hilary Taylor (0121 445 0107) leads A Winter Wander in the Green Belt. Meet in Tanyard Lane Car park at 2.30pm. More info on the Society at www.alvechurchvs.org 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’. 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 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 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.
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continued from previous page Saracen cycling Club is seeking new members. Men, ladies, beginners, and regular riders are all welcome. The longestablished club meets regularly by the Tardebigge Pub on Thurs at 10am and Sun at 9.45am. See www.saracenroadclub. com or call Ivor on 0121 453 2287. 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 Clare on 01527 821917 or Peter on 01527 558203. 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
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. 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 One Fit Mama: Mother & Baby Wednesdays, 9.45am at Rowney Green Village Hall. Like us on Facebook: One Fit Mama Alvechurch, Barnt Green & Wythall. 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
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.
Astwood Bank Angling Club has 8 lakes, including 2 just outside Alvechurch. Annual membership £57 adult, £42 conc, £10 juniors. Info at www.astwoodbankac. co.uk or contact Paul on 01527 522704 or abac.membership@virginmedia.com
Mindful yoga & Meditation classes, Day Retreats and Weekend Workshops. For Peace & Calm, Fitness, Vitality, & Better Sleep. For classes and bookings, contact Sally on 0790 366 3085 or classes@MyYoga Mind.co.uk; visit www.MyYoga Mind.co.uk or Facebook: Sally MyYogaMind
Alvechurch Cricket Club Pavilion (rear of 6 Birmingham Road) is available for meetings/functions/child and adult parties. 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
PILOXING CLASSES: fusion of Pilates/ boxing /dance. ALL levels of fitness. Tues 9.30am (Alvechurch), Tues 7pm (Barnt Green) and Sat 8.45am (Burcot). Alison: 07790 916947, alibenford@yahoo.co.uk, Facebook: ‘Exercise with Alison Benford’ 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. 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.
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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. 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. THE 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. Touch rugby will also be played for those not wishing to play full contact. Further details can be found on www. newravensrl.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 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. 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 Steve Washington on 07771 911209 or visit www.knrfc.co.uk Zumba Gold: Thurs 1.30pm 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. AEROBICS classes at Alvechurch School, Birmingham Rd, Tuesdays 7.30–8.30pm and Fridays 6.30–7.30pm. Lapsed or new members welcome. More info from Tony on 0121 445 1819. Tai Chi (Qigong) sessions in Alvechurch Village Hall on Mon 10–11am and Fri 11am–12noon, both £3 per session. 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. Classes £5. More details on 07831 743737, or see www.paintingtherainbow.co.uk for daytime classes and www.kaiming.co.uk for evening classes. 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. Karate classes take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 7–8pm at Hop-
Village Village What’s What’s On On wood Community Hall. First three Classes FREE. Call Colin on 01527 578880 or 07738 674023 or colin.abbott@homecall.co.uk
CHILDREN & FAMILIES 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. 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 Pol pol’s Playtime runs stay and play sessions each Mon 10am–12noon and 12.30–2.30pm, and Tues 12.30–2.30pm at Beoley Village Hall. £4 per child and £1 per sibling Visit ‘POL POL’s PLAYTIME’ on Facebook for full info. 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 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. 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 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. CATSHILL TODDLERS Club meets at the Methodist Church, Golden Cross Lane, Catshill every Weds 1–3pm (except school hols). £1.50 per child (£1 for additional siblings; under 9 months free) includes drink and biscuit for you and your toddler, plus action toys, craft table, book corner, noisy instruments, and kicking footballs, learning to catch and having fun with hoops – all in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. For more information contact Sheila on 0121 445 2813 or drop in. You will be very welcome. Barnt Green Preschool is at the heart of the community. Open since 1978, it offers learning through play in a nurturing, home-from-home environment. The Preschool follows the Early Years Curriculum and with regular visits to St Andrew’s School and lots of outdoor space, it’s the perfect place to prepare your child for school. It is proud of its OFSTED report (ref 205125) and offers government-funded places. Sessions run 9am-12pm and/or 12pm-3pm Mon and Weds, and 9am-1pm Tues and Thurs. For more information or to get on the waiting list call Tina on 07790 017 777. 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. MENTOR LINK is seeking volunteer mentors to support children and young people in local schools – full training given. The charity is particularly seeking male 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 volunteering, call Claire on 07973 572768, email Claire.Quinn@mentorlink. org.uk or for more info see www.mentorlink.org.uk 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 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. The National Childbirth Trust is now running 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 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 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 pre-
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Mother Goose (pantomime) Dec.18th - 22nd at Artrix, Bromsgrove.
continued from previous page ferred. Close links with FFLAG. Visit www. newroad parents.org, email evansmargar@ gmail.com or call Maggie on 01527 832492 for details.
games & COMPETITIONS 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. BROMSGROVE BRIDGE Clubs: The Amphlett Bridge Club meets at the Stroke Centre in Church Lane, Bromsgrove, on Mon evenings. New members welcome, helpful guidance available and parking is excellent. Contact Alistair on 07814 393416. SPADESBOURNE BRIDGE Club plays at the Life After Stroke Centre in Church Lane, Bromsgrove. 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. Phone Jan on 01905 772256 for more details. Monday Bridge Club at Barnt Green Friends Meeting House would like to welcome a few new members – contact the organiser, Des Clarke, on 0121 453 3034.
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. 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 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. “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 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.
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
Halesowen Bridge Club offers Chicago Bridge on Thursdays at 2pm in the United 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
The Friday Bridge Club plays friendly, competitive, duplicate bridge at the comfortable Burcot Village Hall. New members and visitors are very welcome. Play starts
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.
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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.
HELP & ADVICE 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 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. 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 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 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.
GARDENS & FLOWERS 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, De Wyche Road, Wychbold WR9 7PN. The varied and interesting programme includes demos, workshops, garden visits and garden party, and there’s also a plant stall and raffle. Visitors
Village What’s On welcome – just £4 to include refreshments. More info from Barbara on 01299 851282.
LOVE YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY!
Rowney Green Flower Club usually meets on the 4th Thurs of the month at Rowney Green Village Hall at 7.30pm. On Feb 28 there’s a demonstration by local professional Claire Beckett. All welcome to go along, pick up a few tips and enjoy a cuppa. All arrangements raffled at the end of the evening. Small, friendly informal club – new members/visitors very welcome. £3 entry for visitors. More info from Felicity 0121 445 2371 or Jane 01527 64817.
The Worcestershire Library Consultation has now been extended to February 28, 2019. A document has been prepared which sets out background information to the consultation: www.worcestershire. gov.uk/librariesconsultation and there is also a edited version of the consultation for each library – pick up a paper copy from Alvechurch Library. Any questions please email librariesconsultation@ worcestershire.gov.uk
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. ROWNEY GREEN Horticultural Society usually meets at the Village Hall on the 2nd Thurs each month at 7.30pm. On Feb 14 the group welcomes Vic Aspland, who has travelled extensively looking for plants and will speak about Trees and Shrubs for the Small Garden. Guests always welcome: £3.50 including refreshments. For more info contact Lindsay Smith on 01527 592874. 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 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. 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 Fun Flower Arranging/Floristry Classes and Workshops. Thurs evenings at The Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch. Contact
l Alvechurch Library will be running two Writing Workshops for children during half-term, in conjunction with Explore Learning. These take place on Tues Feb 19 from 2.15–3.15pm and 3.30–4.30pm. They are free of charge and details will be available closer to the date. Keep an eye on the Facebook page for further events. l The Young People’s Reward Card is
now in its eighth month at Alvechurch and Wythall Libraries, the initiative is going from strength to strength. With more than 150 young people signed up for a card and 12 themed events attracting more than 230 young people, the scheme is now launching at libraries throughout Worcestershire. If you are
aged 11–24 years then get signed up today, and Read, Repeat, Reward! There are some more events planned for the spring so check Facebook for more information. l A Chess Club is due to start in the near future., meeting weekly on Sat mornings between 11am and 12noon. The club will be held in the library and will be run by an experienced player and coach. It will provide an opportunity to learn how to play chess, play friendly games with the coach or other club members and to participate in chess lessons and coaching. There will be no charge for the club which will be open to juniors (with parents) and adults at all levels of ability from beginners to grandmasters. If you are interested speak to a member of staff. l There is still time to pop into the library to collect entry forms for the Alvechurch Parish Picnic in the Park logo competition. All entries must be submitted by Fri Feb 8. 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.
Claire for more information on 07564 339157. Website: www.clairewm.wixsite. com/floralcreations
Village Hall. For more details call Lorna on 07963 734756 or visit www.allaboutthesew.com
BROMSGROVE FLOWER Club meets on the 3rd Thurs each month at 2.15pm (except Jan) in All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B61 1AA. New members and visitors are warmly welcomed to spend a lovely afternoon of flowers and fun, watching a professional produce several arrangements which are then raffled, followed by refreshments. There is also an optional flower arranging competition, a bring and buy stall and often other stalls including plants, crafts, clothing. Further info at www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk or ‘Bromsgrove Flower Club’ on Facebook, or from Wendy on 01905 480571.
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 March 13 at 7.30pm; for details, or to ask about commissioning a poem, ring Mary on 0121 445 5957.
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.
ART & LITERATURE All About The Sew holds fun and sociable sewing workshops at Alvechurch
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
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Village What’s On continued from previous page 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 445 3212 or Lyn on 0121 258 2771. 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 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 Library or pop into the library on the Birmingham Road. 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. 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. Burcot Woodturning Club offers a friendly meeting place for woodturners of all abilities and experience. A varied programme includes demos, talks, handson 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 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. Bromsgrove Art Society usually meets on the 3rd Weds each month (except Jan and Aug) at Burcot Village Hall, 340 Alcester Road, Burcot, Bromsgrove, B60 1BH, at 7.30pm. Entry £1 for members and £4 for non-members. Visitors welcome. For more info email lyndasharp2010@yahoo.com or visit www.bromsgroveartsociety.org.uk THE “CRAFTY Ladies” craft group meets every Monday morning in Alvechurch Library from 11am–1pm, with knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting etc. An informal and self running group that uses
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shared library space. More info on 01905 822722.
7.30pm. For more info please contact Georgia Jacobs on 01527 62766.
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 Helen on 01564 824517, Eileen on 01564 822214, Louise on 0121 430 4992 or www.wythall writers.com
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
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 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.
WOMEN’S INSTITUTES 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 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 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 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. 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. BEOLEY WI meets on the first Tuesday of each month in Beoley Village Hall at
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. Bromsgrove WI 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 please contact Christine Hickman-Smith 01527 870342 or email christine.hs@uwclub.net Bentley Pauncefoot WI meets at 7.30pm on the second Tues every month at Bentley Village Hall. More info from Vivien Mackenzie on 0121 445 1245. 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. Hopwood WI meets at Hopwood Village Hall on the first Thurs of the month at 7.30pm. For more info call Ann Thurrell on 0121 447 7668. 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 Bromsgrove Belles WI meets on the second Monday each month at The Life After Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove, B61 8RA at 7.30pm. For more info, contact President Carla Priddon at carlapriddon@aol.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
To have your event or group listed here, send details to Sally Oldaker via the addresses on Page 3, by February 12.
Village Business
Advertisement feature
Family-run for 40 years
F
amily-run Bromsgrove firm Broad Street DIY celebrated its 40th anniversary in January. The shop was first opened by Tony and Linda Warren on January 8, 1979. Originally located on Broad Street, in Sidemoor, the business has grown from humble beginnings and today three generations of the Warren family work there. While Tony remains “the Boss”, his son Paul was appointed managing director in 2002. The firm is also managed by Paul’s brother Brian, Paul’s wife Hayley, and his sister Lisa. Paul’s son Liam represents the third generation. A turning point came in 2001 when the shop moved to its current Worcester Road location. Larger premises gave room for a wider range of products and an outside yard allowed for greater expan-
Paul Warren, Lisa Childs, Brian Warren sion into landscaping and building materials. A kitchen and bathroom showroom opened in 2009. As part of the anniversary celebrations the shop was decorated with hundreds of green balloons, 40 customers received a free goody bag, and there were special offers including 40 per cent off key cutting. A visitors’ book was also available for customers to leave comments.
Paul Warren said: “Over the years Broad Street DIY has experienced some very challenging trading conditions – we have survived three recessions in the past 40 years. We are immensely proud to be celebrating four decades of serving the local community. We work very hard to maintain high standards of service because without our customers we wouldn’t be here today.”
Village Baking
The food of love S
Keen baker Jen Morris, of Rowney Green, creates a chocolatey treat for the most romantic day of the year . . . (contains sugar!)
t Valentine’s Day is upon us and if there is someone whom you want to woo, these brownies could be the way to their heart. They are gloriously rich and decadent; a luxury for the one you love. They cut into 12 squares, so if you are hedging your bets on the romance front, there are plenty to share around! One version of the recipe also had white chocolate sprinkled over the top. For me, that is a step too far, but if your Valentine has a very sweet tooth, then don’t hold back! Ingredients: l 350g plain chocolate l 250g butter l 3 large eggs
250g dark brown soft sugar 110g plain flour l 1 tsp baking powder l 150g glace cherries, halved l 150g white chocolate chips (optional) l l
Method: 1) Pre-heat oven to 170C /150C fan / Gas 3. Line a tin with baking parchment (approx 30 x 23cm or equivalent) 2) Melt the chocolate and butter together in the microwave, by heating on high and stirring every 30 seconds. Once melted, set aside to cool for 5 mins. 3) Meanwhile, whisk the eggs and sugar together, until thick and pale. 4) Whisk the cooled chocolate into the egg mixture, then gently fold in the
flour, baking powder and half the cherries, until just combined. 5) Pour the brownie mixture into the tin, then scatter the top with the remaining cherries (and the white chocolate chips, if using). 6) Bake the brownies in the oven for 40–50mins, until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out with just a little mixture sticking to it. 7) Remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely in the tin. 8) Once cool, cut into squares and serve. The Village
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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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