The Village magazine May 2019: #201

TheVillage May 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 201 May 2019

Bringing you village life for more than 20 years

Village Milestones Page 6

Election Special Pages 14–17

Editorial: Editor: Sally Oldaker Publisher: Richard Peach The Limes Alvechurch Worcestershire B48 7RR

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Palm Procession Pages 34–35

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Play-offs Beckon Pages 42–43

Growing Month Pages 50–53

Cover: Motocross riders in action at Weatheroak – see Page 37.

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Village News

Indie hope for poll boost T

he candidates are up and running to find a new council to take charge at Bromsgrove – and make decisions that will affect villagers’ lives for years to come, particularly when it comes to the “B” word.

And this “B” word is Barntchurch – the threat of 10,000-15,000 homes on the Green Belt between Barnt Green, Alvechurch and Blackwell.

In a vote last year, the ruling Conservative group defeated an independent motion to shelve the report that raised the spectre of Barntchurch.

Now independent candidates are standing across the district, saying they hope to change the balance of power at Bromsgrove and herald an era of decision-making “for the people” rather than in the interests of individual political parties.

Shelving Barntchurch is likely to be a priority if the independents were to prevail and fulfil their pledge to work with both Conservatives and Labour on behalf of the people of Bromsgrove.

The hope of a power shift on May 2 has given this election a different feel to

Continues on Page 15

palm procession: Motorists making their way through Alvechurch on Palm Sunday might have been surprised to see “Jesus” (villager Tim Reading) leading a procession along Swan Street, accompanied by a pair of donkeys.

In an event organised by the local churches, more than 100 people of all ages braved the chilly weather to join church members and Alvechurch Community Choir on the route from Sandhills Nursery to the precinct, waving palms and singing hymns.

More photos on pages 34–35.

The Village

May 2019

5

Village News

Village milestones

A

host of Alvechurch groups and institutions are celebrating milestones this year, with special events taking place across the village.

In March, Alvechurch Community Choir marked its 10th birthday with a special cake, made by member Diana Abraham and shared – along with some bubbly – at a Monday night practice in the Village Hall. Mary Green also read one of her poems for the occasion.

A few weeks later there were big celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the Worcester-Birmingham & Droitwich Canal Society, held at The Crown Inn, Withybed Green where the group was first formed in 1969. Live music, boat rides and falconry were some of the attractions on the day, and more pictures from the event will appear in next month’s Village.

Later this month it’s the turn of Alvechurch Women’s Institute, which has been going for 90 years. The group will celebrate on May 13 with a tea party in their meeting place of Alvechurch Village Hall – which also has its 90th birthday this year.

The hall will be the venue for yet another party when Alvechurch Village Society marks its 50th anniversary on June 26 – full details have yet to be announced.

Finally, the Alvechurch Border Morris side will have been dancing for 30 years this summer, and will be holding an anniversary event – again, we will bring you more information next month!

Above: Members of the Alvechurch Community Choir’s committee with the birthday cake. Below: Villagers gather outside The Crown for the Canal Society anniversary (Photo/ Dennis Brown)

Golf club won’t play ball Lickey & Blackwell parish councillors were disappointed to learn that Blackwell Golf Club still does not intend to allow its land to be used as part of the rail crossing diversion.

An email from Network Rail confirmed that it had had “no success” in convincing the club, which had cited “health and safety reasons”.

The planned diversion along Blackwell Road will replace the “yellow brick road” rail crossing (left), which

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The Village

May 2019

Network Rail deemed too dangerous since the introduction of faster, more frequent trains.

Parish clerk Lisa Winterbourn said, “If the diversion is also too unsafe, maybe Network Rail will re-open the crossing?”

County and district councillor Kit Taylor replied, “Absolutely not! If they do that, someone will die. it’s just a ruse from the golf club to claim health and safety.”

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Village News

Still fighting for station BARNT Green Parish Council has vowed once again that it will not give up the fight for improvements at the village railway station.

Parish clerk Tracy Bodley reported that Richard Brooks, Customer Service Director for West Midlands Railway, had responded to the council’s continuing request for better signage, stating that “significant investment” was planned and that he had asked the station manager to look into “identifying funding streams”.

Parish chairman Robert Cholmondeley said: “We should ask them for a time frame on this. Since I met the station manager, I’ve heard nothing more, not even a reply to a chaser email. We need to keep the pressure up – it’s attrition.”

Councillors will also keep pressing for lifts at the station, although Coun Cholmondeley said he felt it would “not be done in my lifetime”.

He added: “I think Network Rail knew, when our application for

Burcot build looks likely

lickey & Blackwell parish councillors expressed sadness that Fresh@ Burcot Garden Centre could be replaced by 11 new houses if a planning application is approved.

Coun Stephen Nock said “We’re sorry to see it go, but chances are it will happen.”

District and county councillor Kit Taylor added that because it was a brownfield site, “the damage to the Green Belt has already been done.”

Parish chairman Nick Forknell “We did ask Burcot to be involved in our Neighbourhood Plan, but they refused – maybe it could have helped!”

Parish seeks village views

BARNT GREEN parish chairman Robert Cholmondeley told colleagues the council needed to “pick up the baton” now that surrounding parishes had completed their Neighbourhood Plans.

“We did consider getting professional help with our plan but nothing has been done, and our data is a few years old now. We need to ask residents for their current views on local issues, maybe with a questionnaire.”

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May 2019

Access for All funding went to the Department for Transport, that it would not be approved. They played for time, wasting a year until the budgets are already agreed.“ Coun Charlie Hotham said that Worcestershire’s Equalities Officer was aware of the matter, adding: “I recently spoke to Ken Pollock [county Cabinet Member for Economy and Infrastructure] who said that lifts had been approved at Shrub Hill, so we must be moving up the list!”

From left: Tom, Frazer and Leigh

Running off to Berlin

AN ALVECHURCH resident is aiming to complete the Berlin Marathon in September, despite having had knee surgery in March.

Leigh Church, along with friends Tom Bradley, of Barnt Green, and Frazer Slade, of Alvechurch, is raising funds for Get Kids Going!, a national charity that gives children and young people with disabilities the opportunity of participating in sport.

“Running is my stress ball, and it has also given me friendship, camaraderie, and purpose,” says Leigh. “We all take many of these aspects for granted, and in recent years, I have certainly come to appreciate this.”

In 2010 he tore the cartilage in his left knee, requiring two surgeries and two years of rebuilding, which he describes as “frustrating and difficult.”

Last year he tore the cartilage in the other knee and needed more surgery

– which was when he set himself the marathon challenge.

“My rehab started well until shortly after Christmas, when I simply turned awkwardly at home and tore the cartilage again, requiring another visit to the operating theatre.”

Leigh has only just been able to start running again, and plans to build up to longer distances as he begins marathon training in May. “Through my own injuries I have experienced the impact that disability can have, not just physically but mentally – and that’s why I want to raise money for Get Kids Going!, which not only helps with sports grants and purchasing specialist equipment, but also provides wheelchairs for children to use every day.”

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Village News

It’s almost picnic time!

O

rganisers of the Alvechurch Picnic in the Park have announced that this year’s event will be officially opened by Professor Sir Keith Porter.

Village resident Professor Porter is the UK’s only Professor of Clinical Traumatology, and has been at the forefront of developing world-class treatment for injured military servicemen and women over the past 10 years. He was knighted in 2010 for services to the Armed Forces.

The picnic takes place on Sunday May 26 and begins with the dog show at 11am, followed by the main event from 12 noon. There are 10 acts

in the line-up for the stage entertainment and more than 50 food and activity stalls including the everpopular pig roast, face painters and bouncy castle. Then from 5pm you can head over to the cricket club for

more live music, karaoke and family fun.

Raffle tickets are now on sale: prizes include a £100 voucher for At Home with Lou, Day Boat Hire from ABC and a season ticket to Alvechurch FC. The organisers are grateful to all the raffle prize donors.

There is still time to construct a speed machine ready for the GoKart Challenge, which sees teams competing to receive the prestigious Challenge Cup. More details, rules and online entry form can be found at www.alvechurchpicnic.org, where you’ll also find full details about the Picnic – or see social media.

Murder in mind for village film

Barnt Green film-makers Sheila and Bill Evans of Walktall Productions have announced their next project – a psychological feature called Jacqueline. The script, written by Sheila, is based on the notorious Jack the Ripper murders of 1888, with a present-day copycat killer opening the door on yet another theory on the identity of “Jack”.

Three actors with TV credits will take leading roles, and the composer of the music for previous production The Legend of Dark House is also involved. The majority of the film will be shot in Barnt Green and the surrounding area.

A crowd-funding campaign for the project has been set up at www. indiegogo.com/projects/jacqueline Meanwhile, Dark House is currently being entered into film festivals.

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The Village

May 2019

Village News Round-Up

PARISH PLANTERS: Barnt Green residents Alun Davies and Rachel Banner (above), and parish chairman Robert Cholmondeley (right) get stuck in to the planting of a “pollinator-friendly patch” in the village. The site on Hewell Road is designed to encourage insects with wild flowers and grass.

Barnt

Green Parish Council is busy planning several village events for 2019. A Treasure Hunt is scheduled for the summer, featuring a trail around the area with clues for both adults and children, although councillors are still discussing the finer details. Another Fun Run has also been suggested, while the annual Community Walk is set for September 28.

There

is still no word on whether there will be an official inquiry into the Marlbrook Tip saga, Lickey & Blackwell parish councillors heard. District councillor Richard Deeming, who chairs the tip’s cross-party working group, said he was waiting for advice from Bromsgrove’s legal team. He also said that the district council’s planning lawyer had left: “Maybe having a new person at the top will make a difference.”

Total

recorded crime in Alvechurch parish rose slightly over the past year, according to police figures supplied to the Annual Parish Meeting.

There were 1,348 crimes for the year to March 2019, up by 21 from the previous year. The rise was almost totally down to antisocial behaviour, which rose from 203 reports to 266, while residential burglaries fell substantially from 224 to 174.

Posting

on social media is not the best way to approach a council, Alvechurch parish chairman Andy Humphries told the annual meeting. “Don’t put something on Facebook, tell us. It is so much better to get an angry email than to see something on Facebook.” Meanwhile, he said it had been a successful year, with the highlight being the adoption of the Parish Neighbourhood Plan.

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The Village

May 2019

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Village Polling

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H

ow often have we or someone else said: “At least we’ll be able to make our voices heard at the ballot box”? Well, it’s been a long wait, four years since the last local elections, but at last the time has come to make a change at Bromsgrove.

As far as we are concerned, there is one word that should make us all want to bring one-party dominance to an end in the council chamber: Barntchurch.

For those who don’t remember, this was our shorthand for a report into where overflow housing from Birmingham should be built.

The Greater Birmingham Housing Market Area Strategic Growth Study, led by GL Hearn, a “real estate consultancy . . . focused on project delivery”, outlined an idea for a “garden town/village” in the Green Belt between Barnt Green and Alvechurch with 10,00015,000 new homes.

As we wrote in April last year: This would be the end of village life as we know it.

You might have thought that Bromsgrove District Council would fight back against such an idea on behalf of its residents. This, after all, was the council that at the turn of the millennium was “waving its fist in defiance” at threats to the Green Belt and launching a Green Belt Protection Campaign with a phone line for people to pledge support.

Not this time. Something has changed in the fabric of the district council and it looks like they are rolling out the red carpet to the developers and swinging open the gates to our green fields to allow their bulldozers on.

The council is particularly keen on this Barnt­ church report. Instead of shelving it as some housebuilder’s pipe-dream while Bromsgrove’s consultation into its next local plan was being carried out, council chiefs told councillors to consider it “a thorough evidence base to take matters forward through the district plan review process”.

They even considered it worthy of being listed on its website under the title: “Planning Policies”, with the sub-heading: “These are the planning policies that help to guide development in Bromsgrove District.” After The Village contacted planning chiefs last month to point out that the leader of the council had said it was “not a policy statement”, the response was to leave the Hearn report listed with the council’s

planning policies, and merely to change the title of the page to: “Planning Policies and Other Planning Information.”

We would say this document which, as our MP Sajid Javid has stated, is “nothing to do with Bromsgrove”, should be nowhere near the council’s official planning policies. Leaving it there signals that the council could countenance such a disastrous idea as Barntchurch.

We should not forget that this council exists to serve us, the residents; the people who pay the wages of officers doing a job on our behalf.

Have we ever told them we want 15,000 new homes on the Green Belt around Barnt Green, Alvechurch and Blackwell? Well, this is where your vote on May 2 can make a real difference by telling them we don’t want that.

When the Hearn report first surfaced, the independent councillors at Bromsgrove immediately pushed for an emergency debate on a motion that it should be set aside completely and that the district continue its local plan deliberations as if it did not exist.

But, as we reported last May, the controlling Conservative group at Bromsgrove voted together to defeat the motion. This bears repeating: The Conservative councillors representing us, the residents, at Bromsgrove District Council, banded together to make sure Barntchurch remained part of the consultation on the district’s future. They voted in favour of a study suggesting 10,000-15,000 new homes could be built on Green Belt fields around Alvechurch, Barnt Green and Blackwell.

We promised last April: “We will be following the positions taken by our readers’ representatives closely so we will know whether or not we should be supporting them at the ballot box in May 2019.”

For the record, the Conservative councillors representing Village-area wards who voted in favour of keeping the Hearn report on the agenda were: June Griffiths (Alvechurch South), Kit Taylor (Lickey Hills), Richard Deeming (Cofton), Peter Whittaker (Tardebigge), Brian Cooper (Marlbrook), Caroline Spencer (Slideslow), Phil Thomas (Aston Fields).

Most of these people are hoping for your votes again on May 2 – and for a long time, the Conserva-

TheVillage View . . .

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The Village

May 2019

h

ELECTION

‘A strong wind of change has been blowing across the district.’

tives could just breeze into Bromsgrove, but a strong wind of change has been blowing across this part of the district ever since Charlie Hotham won in the new Barnt Green and Hopwood Ward as an independent candidate.

Alvechurch Village Ward elected the independent Kate Van der Plank in a by-election two years later and independent candidates have now been inspired to stand in a number of other wards, knowing that it will only take a shift of two seats away from the Conservatives to bring change. (There are currently seven “independents ‘ alliance” councillors, seven Labour and 17 Conservative.)

The independents have pledged that if they hold the balance at Bromsgrove, they will break the mould of party politics and work with both Conservative and Labour councillors for the benefit of the people of Bromsgrove rather than that of a political party.

That sounds like just what Bromsgrove needs – and perhaps top of the list of joint decisions could be the shelving of the Hearn report out of sight in a cupboard, in a dark room, down a corridor, never to be seen again . . .

Indies aim to end party rule at district

Continues from Page 5 those in recent years – particularly compared to 2015 when there was a relative dearth of candidates, with some wards being a straight fight between Conservative and UKIP candidates.

That resulted in the 31-seat council comprising 18 Tories, seven Labour, three independents and three Wythall Residents Association councillors.

The Tories lost Alvechurch Village Ward to independent Kate Van der Plank in a by-election two years ago and so now the ruling group has only a slim majority of three seats to defend.

This means the wards in The Village area are likely to be pivotal.

If Coun Van der Plank can take Alvechurch Village Ward again and Coun Charlie Hotham continue his winning record in Barnt Green and Hopwood, all eyes will be on Alvechurch South.

In 2015, the Conservative June Griffiths beat her sole opponent for the ward, from UKIP, by 1152 votes to 416, before falling ill in May 2017.

This led to complaints that the people of the Alvechurch South were not being properly represented and the Conservatives will be hoping this is not reflected in voters’ preferences this May. Meanwhile, It is yet to be seen how the “B” word – the other one this time – will play out on polling day, particularly for Conservative candidates.

Some feel the prolonged Brexit debate has energised interest in politics while others say people won’t bother to vote again.

Independence bid: See overleaf The Village

May 2019

15

Village Polling

Independent candidates hoping for village seats (from left): Charlie Hotham, Kate Van der Plank, Annette English, Sarah Courbet and Rob Van der Plank.

Village independence bid

This month’s elections to Bromsgrove District Council have been given a boost by the large number of independent candidates entering the fray.

There are 12 “independents’ alliance” candidates standing across Bromsgrove, with a large concentration on this side of the district.

They are hoping villagers will vote for them to break the one-party dominance at Bromsgrove which they say does not work in the interests of residents.

It is a two-horse race in Barnt Green and Hopwood, where Charlie Hotham – the current independent district councillor, vice-chairman of the parish council and county councillor for the Alvechurch Division – is being opposed by Mary Marsh, a Conservative.

In Alvechurch Village Ward independent Kate Van der Plank is campaigning to hold the seat against a challenge from Neil Harris for the Tories, and Louise Humphries, of Stoke Prior, for Labour.

In the pivotal Alvechurch South Ward, there is a wide open race as an independent candidate, Alvechurch

villager Annette English, has joined the tussle against Trevor Bland, of Beoley, for the Tories, Dean Petters, of Alvechurch, for the LibDems, and Alan Cooper, of Rubery, for Labour.

There is a crowded polling card in Cofton where independent Rob Van der Plank, of Alvechurch, is standing against long-serving councillor Richard Deeming for the Tories, Antony Maslen, of Rubery, for Labour, LibDem Sarah Woodhouse, of Barnt Green, and Green Jill Harvey, of Lickey.

In the sprawling ward of Tardebigge, Alvechurch resident Sarah Courbet is standing as an independent against the incumbent Tory Peter Whittaker, along with LibDem Nicholas Hind, of Cofton Hackett, and Labour’s Sean Shannon, of Aston Fields.

Another interesting two-horse race is in Lickey Hills where long-time parish councillor Janet King is again taking the LibDem fight to the Conservative Kit Taylor.

An independent, Steve Capewell, has thrown his hat into the ring in neighbouring Rubery South, while over in Wythall West, Hollywood and

Drakes Cross wards, three candidates are standing under the banner of Wythall Residents’ Association, which allies itself with the independents at Bromsgrove.

On the other side of the district in Hagley East and West, where the independent spirit blossomed, Rachel Jenkins and Steve Colella are hoping to continue their success, while Dean Smith is standing as an independent in Rock Hill, Bromsgrove.

In other wards covered by this magazine there is a Tory-Labour head-to-head in increasingly trendy Aston Fields, where Rory Shannon is taking on the sitting Tory Phil Thomas.

There will be a new face in Marlbrook where Brian Cooper is not standing this time, and the ward is being contested by Ros Cooke, Labour, Peter Harvey, for the Greens, and Conservative Helen Jones.

Finally, Slideslow Ward, which includes the Oakalls and Parklands, sees the Conservative Caroline Spencer being challenged by David Skidmore, for Labour, and LibDem Samuel Evans.

Andy relinquishes the parish chair

May 2 is also parish council election day, although not all parishes have received sufficient nominations to require elections.

Among these is Alvechurch Parish Council, which is now asking for anyone wishing to be “co-opted” on to the council to put themselves forward. Meanwhile the parish chairman, Andy Humphries (left), says he is

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May 2019

definitely standing down as chairman after six years in the role, although he is continuing as a parish councillor.

Adrian Smith, who was instrumental in bringing the Alvechurch Parish Neighbourhood Plan to fruition, is standing down as a parish councillor but continuing as chairman of Hopwood Residents’ Association.

Village Care

Advertisement feature

Lawns welcomes Lukas

T

he Lawns care home in Alvechurch had the opportunity to celebrate the appointment of new manager Lukas Rokita with an Easter coffee morning for residents, families and friends.

This was the first event organised

by Lukas and his team since he took on the role, having been deputy manager since August 2018. Guests enjoyed an Easter bonnet parade, tombola, “guess the weight of the cake”, “guess the name of the teddy” and a raffle, plus village entertainers Jean and Adrian.

Lukas has worked in the care sector for the past 15 years in various roles within care homes and nursing homes, and says he finds it particularly rewarding to work with people who are living with dementia

and to promote person-centred dementia care.

“I am very proud to be the manager of The Lawns. I have put in all my heart and a lot of hard work since day one to ensure that the residents live in a safe and happy environment,” says Lukas.

“I am working closely with my team and I have a lot of ideas for the future of The Lawns. We are planning a lot more events in the next few months, so watch this space – everybody will be welcome to join us.”

The Lawns Care Home School Lane, Alvechurch B48 7SB Tel: 0121 445 4098 www.thelawnscare.co.uk

Could you be an Alvechurch Parish Councillor?

Alvechurch Parish Council has two vacancies, one in the Hopwood Ward and one in the Alvechurch Village Ward.

The vacancies have arisen because insufficient candidates have applied to be elected as Parish Councillors at the elections on 2nd May 2019. . . would you consider joining the team?

Being a Parish Councillor means you can influence decisions that benefit local people. Recent Parish Council projects include improving play equipment at our playing fields and producing the Alvechurch Neighbourhood Plan.

The role would require you to attend Council meetings which last around two to three hours per month, and potentially some sub-committees as well.

If you’re interested, further information can be found either on our website, www.alvechurch.gov.uk, or www.facebook.com/AlvechurchParishCouncil If you would like to discuss the role further with a current Councillor or the Parish Clerk, you can find our contact details on our website.

The Village

May 2019

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Village VillageViews Views

Tories won’t stand up fo

Dear Editor – I see that once again the Conservative Party has selected a district council candidate for Barnt Green & Hopwood who lives on the other side of Bromsgrove.

It is clear from her “Manifesto for Barnt Green” that she is either illinformed or ignorant with regard to recent housing development in the village.

She states, “If we vote in an Independent the only thing they can do is complain without effect and the result is the development happens anyway, as it did with CALA Homes”.

Back in July 2012 when the CALA development received planning permission, Barnt Green was part of the Hillside Ward which was represented by Conservative councillors Richard Deeming and Stuart Dudley.

Despite lobbying from the parish council, Residents’ Association and many local individuals, neither councillor spoke against the development. That was probably the main reason why Barnt Green elected an independent candidate three years later.

The district council has long been a laughing stock for its incompetence (Sports Hall, anyone) and our experience shows that if we elect a Conservative they won’t represent us at all; they will just blindly follow the party line.

It only needs a couple of seats to change hands from Conservative to Independent for the Tories to lose overall control of the council this

Have your say . . . about anything!

24

The Village

May 2019

month. For the sake of local democracy I sincerely hope that happens.

Malcolm Shine, Barnt Green

Village news or entertainment?

Dear Editor – Many years ago, my boss advised me to regard the BBC and ITV news programmes as entertainment. Likewise, The Village magazine is just as much fun.

First, in April’s letters section, John Ridarta wants to fine me £100,000 each time I have a bonfire; countered by your own excellent response that bonfires are a way of life. Perhaps it‘s a good idea to think about wind direction before lighting up.

And then David Barton suggests it is wrong for the local butcher, baker and candlestick-maker to make planning decisions. He may prefer totalitarianism to democracy. It is fine if you agree with the dictator, but not so if that decision-maker, sitting behind some desk in London, following his or her master’s diktat, differs from local needs. Democracy every day!

Then we have the perennial jibe at CALA Homes. Yes, they must obey public rights of way and unlock certain gates. But instead of complaining about their balancing pond filling with rubbish, why not suggest they work with Rachel Banner to plant up pollinating plants around it? I’ll bet they will be cooperative. And while on the subject of their development, why not welcome its new residents and give CALA an award for creating such a first-class development?

Last but not least, the 25th anni-

versary celebration of the Marlbrook Tip saga! If someone had planted trees all over it 20 years ago, by now we would have a wonderful extension to the woods on the Lickey Hills.

Instead the council has washed its hands of it by involving the Environment Agency.

I will not be around to celebrate the 50th anniversary. But surely, even now, to plant trees all over it would make the ground safe and create a more pleasant environment.

John Impey, Alvechurch

Cycle concern in Rowney Green

Dear Editor – A number of residents in Rowney Green have raised concerns about the speed at which some cyclists go down Rowney Green Lane.

Tempting though we know it must be to zoom down the hill, please could we ask you to slow down a little for your own safety and that of everyone else. Thank you so much in anticipation.

Andrew May, Rowney Green Association

Bonfires haven’t killed me yet . . .

Dear Editor – According to Mr Ridarta of Cofton Hackett (Bonfires have the potential to kill, April 2019) I guess I should feel exceedingly lucky to be alive.

He doesn’t give his age but I’m guessing he’s too young to have been around at the end of WWII when the country was struggling to get back

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 May 15.

or village on its feet and everyone was still growing their own vegetables.

I vividly remember every Sunday morning most people would be out in their gardens, and one of the first actions would be to light a bonfire, usually starting about 7am. This would be kept going as long as the gardening was taking place.

The smell of wood smoke always brings back such happy memories and if I’m out in the car and drive into a cloud of it I always wind down the windows just to bring back all those treasures.

Incidentally, washing was never hung out on a Sunday.

John Holland, via email

New homes will spoil Burcot’s beauty

Dear Editor – I agree wholeheartedly with the comments in David Barton’s letter last month. I would like to add, “Democracy is a great thing – if only the authorities would use it more often!”

I and others are alarmed and saddened to learn (very late on) that a planning application has been put in to change the use of Fresh @ Burcot Garden Centre to eleven (or so) dwellings. The fact that the land is in the Green Belt should be a major factor in its request for change of use. Village people are normally passionate when Green Belt is under threat, and quite rightly so.

Burcot Garden Centre also has a great many customers who want it to remain.

Most sadly, everything is all about “how much money” and I am sure the regrets will come later when Burcot residents find it has a knock-on effect and all the beauty of their tiny rural village is quickly swallowed by other landowners, big or small, who simply cannot wait to fill their pockets.

Name and address supplied

Appeal for democracy

Dear Editor – Please let me clarify, after a recent experience, what I would do if I felt I had good reason to object to the planning application to build a house immediately in the vicinity of my property, and why.

Despite guidelines to protect greenfield continues overleaf

Memories of our friend Robin

Dear Editor – In answer to the query (Remembering Robin, Village Views, January 2019), the bench at Alvechurch Marina is indeed in memory of our dear departed friend Robin Walden, as is the apple tree alongside The Weighbridge pub. There is also a carved wooden plaque on the corner of the pub saying: “The apple tree opposite was planted by Aelfgythe Border Morris in memory of Robin Walden 12th February 1935 – 19th December 2011, much loved and missed.”

Robin became very well known on the canal with his boat, Greylag. He used to be the licensee of The Bell pub in Northfield, prior to working for Alvechurch Boat Centre, but he was initially a draughtsperson by trade. He eventually lived on Greylag and not only worked at the boat yard, particularly with seasonal handovers, but acted as security for the place as he was always there or in The Weighbridge.

His then partner, Joyce Frederick, also lived on the boat and between them they cruised many of the local waterways and attended various rallies and events. It was Robin who started the now-annual “booze cruise” from Alvechurch to The Hopwood pub every Boxing Day. Robin used to help anybody and everybody. He used to receive all the local coal orders from the narrowboat Roach, which delivered along the canal, and then arrange collection. He sharpened chainsaws and was an expert on herbs and fungi, particularly alongside the canal. He was also a water diviner.

He loved music and had even cruised down to Cropedy for the folk festival there. Robin also spent time at work camps with the IWA’s Waterway Recovery Group. There is so much more to tell about Robin.

He started to suffer ill-health around 2010. Towards the latter part of 2011 he was due to go into hospital, but unfortunately did not get there. He passed away on December 10, 2011 and was found by some of the ABC people on board Greylag, sitting in a chair with a glass of whisky alongside. Robin was 76 years old and needless to say his passing was a big shock to many people.

Robin’s funeral service took place at the Robin Hood Crematorium and the wake was of course at The Weighbridge, with a collection taken in aid of the Waterway Recovery Group. Robin’s ashes were scattered on the somewhat frozen canal opposite the boat yard where he had spent so much time.

The idea of a commemorative bench was decided upon, and his friends Aimee and Martyn arranged for it to be constructed by a rustic oak company.

Robin’s old boat was eventually sold and was last seen on the Northern Stratford Canal out towards Lapworth.

John Hemingway, Alvechurch The Village

May 2019

25

Village VillageViews Views continued from previous page space, villages and individuals, such protection leaves open the opportunity for guidelines to be ignored or circumvented. This is especially true should your objection go just to planning officers (professionals) without the knowledge of your district councillor on the planning committee. In such a case you will find a final decision can be made behind closed doors with no minutes taken, no appeal and no redress.

It is only your ward district planning committee councillor, in the knowledge of the application, who has the power to call a full planning committee that will allow you a few minutes to discuss your objections, although their decision is final. All this has to be done within 21 days.

It’s true that you can make an appeal to the Secretary of State but I would strongly suggest that anyone contemplating such a move seeks legal advice and ensures they have very deep pockets.

Where’s Vinny?

SIX-year-old Amelie Burton, 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 with your prize!

The country has to have new houses but planning decisions can seriously affect the quality of life for many people, often causing considerable distress. The very least is to expect they be made in a democratic way.

When a letter is sent informing residents of a planning application, it’s essential that it includes details of the relevant parish council and

elected ward planning councillor.

Both need to be informed.

I have been working with our parish council to seek a solution. Then at least those affected would be aware of who to contact should they wish to object, thus ensuring the final decision and responsibility lies with elected district councillors, the way it should be.

John Williams, Rowney Green

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

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Find us on Facebook: ‘RMB Services’

26

The Village

May 2019

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Village Homes

Advertisement feature

Celebration for firm’s first year

A

s Bromsgrove business Carpets Rugs & Runners celebrates its first successful year of trading, customers can find even more inspiration for their homes – as well as enjoying the “good old-fashioned service” on which the firm is founded.

Proprietor Darren Varney says he is delighted with how the store has been received: “Opening a new business is not without its challenges, but we’ve had a lot of support, kind comments and reviews from the 350-plus customers who have purchased during the past year.”

Darren has more than 34 years’ experience in all aspects of the carpet and flooring industry, from buying and selling to professional cleaning.

Using trusted suppliers, the business offers top quality products for all areas of the home, with a vast array of colours, styles and sizes available in store or made to measure.

The varied collection of products includes a wool collection, a natural plant fibre collection and stain-resistant Easy Clean range, which can either be viewed in store or via the free in-home selection service.

The smart showroom stocks a huge selection of ready-made rugs and hallway runners, or you could have a bespoke rug or runner created to your exact specifications.

Brochures and samples offer even more colours, styles and sizes, while all ranges can be viewed on the website: www. carpets-rugs-runners.co.uk There’s also a carpet whipping service, to convert your offcuts and remnants into mats, runners and rugs to preserve and enhance your flooring.

As well as the in-home selection service, customers will get free estimates and fitting by a qualified, fully-insured fitter (minimum order of 16 sq m). Carpets Rugs & Runners also provides free spot cleaning for the first 12 months on wool WOW-registered carpets.

In addition, there’s a free local delivery service – and a “price promise” to ensure customers receive the best possible price and service.

8 Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove B61 0AB Tel: 01527 578804 or 07808 778169 www.carpets-rugs-runners.co.uk sales@carpets-rugs-runners.co.uk The Village

May 2019

29

Oakalls Village

Oakalls litter picking team

Cleaning up the streets M

Sarah Rees reports from the Oakalls and Parklands.

ore than 30 people took part in the Great British Spring Clean on the Oakalls and Parklands. This was the largest turnout since residents first organised a community litter pick in 2016.

The team collected 24 bags of litter, mainly plastic bottles, sweet papers and dog waste – but more unusual items found thrown into bushes included two buckets and a pile of old newspapers. There was also a crisp packet from 2008, highlighting the concern that the plastic hadn’t degraded in over a decade.

Sarah Milburn, a Keep Britain Tidy #LitterHeroes Ambassador who launched the Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful (KBB) campaign in 2018, coordinated litter picks across the town and supported the Oakalls event.

She said: “The litter pick at the Oakalls and Parklands was promoted on our website and mentioned in our press articles. A few of us from the KBB group turned up to support the residents – and I was so happy to hear that it was their biggest turnout ever.

We should celebrate the individuals and groups that exist around the district working hard to clean up their neighbourhoods.”

30

The Village

May 2019

Year 1 pupils

n Year 1 children at Finstall First School took part in an “Animal Day” as part of a curriculum topic. They had learned about the continents, the oceans and the animals that live in hot and cold countries– and also learned how to care for pets.

The topic culminated in a dressup day with the children enjoying a variety of themed activities including making animal masks.

Five-year-old Evan (crocodile) said: “The most fun part was colouring in a picture of a snake. It was one of the poisonous ones!”

Ruby (penguin) added: “I loved making a panda mask. I painted it and put some tissue paper on it. I really like pandas.”

Ethan (lion) said: “The most amazing thing I learned was about penguins. They can swim underwater and they live in the Arctic.

I’ve seen real penguins at a zoo and they’re great.”

Bringing topics to life for the children is something head teacher Stuart Evans firmly believes in. “If children are excited about a project they are so much more receptive.

In fact, they don’t always realise just how much they are learning along the way.”

Please contact me with your news, views and concerns about any aspect of life on the estate. Email: oakalls@villageonline.co.uk

10 Years Ago 20 Years Ago From TheVillage archive

A SEA of bluebells at the bottom of Cofton Hill in the Lickeys made the cover of our May 2009 edition.

Inside, there was a preview of some of the local gardens soon to open under the National Garden Scheme.

From TheVillage archive

Our may 1999 cover showed an orange tulip snapped by local photographer Jo Cound, who froze the flower in liquid nitrogen before shattering the petals.

More of Jo’s work was featured inside.

September 2013 – the dig-

September 2013 – the dig-

gers arrive IN THE NEWS: Flashing speed signs across the area had confirmed that the majority of motorists were speeding through the area, in an unofficial survey by The Village.

Meanwhile, in Blackwell the old Methodist church on Greenhill was up for auction, and a consultation was due on the abolition of Lickey End Parish Council.

gers arrive IN THE NEWS: A new bus service from Redditch to Bromsgrove via Rowney Green, Alvechurch, Hopwood, Barnt Green and Lickey was under threat after district councillors said it was underused.

Meanwhile, a reader alerted us to a road sign with the mis-spelling “Alvenchurch”, which had been at the junction of Agmore Lane and Scarfield Hill for years.

well-known villager Lily Houghton had retired from Alvechurch Pharmacy after 38 years as a healthcare assistant. She was pictured with colleagues Keith Baxter, Fiona Smith, Tracy Vaughan, Leah Yendell, Gillian Stock and Andrea Warder as she said goodbye to the place where she had worked since 1971.

Lickey First & Middle School held a special opening for the first phase of an initiative to improve the school environment, attended by original head Dorothy Powell (then in her 90s) and three generations of her descendants – all past, present or future pupils.

a schools rugby tournament hosted

by Hopwood clubs Kings Norton RFC & Five Ways RFC featured expert coaching advice from former England captain and British Lion Jason Robinson (pictured, left, with KNRFC club president Ron Bunce).

hopwood couple Tony and Ann Turton were photographed

by Les Ladbury in their 1914 Ford Model T, which they used for rallies and hired out for weddings. They were only the third owners of the car, which for 40 years had been used by a doctor on his rounds.

32

The Village

May 2019

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Village People

Palm processio Villagers parade through Alvechurch to mark the start of Easter week.

The palm Sunday procession, led by â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jesusâ&#x20AC;? and the donkeys, successfully navigated the narrow pavements and busy traffic of Swan Street to arrive safely in the precinct where there were more songs from Alvechurch Community Choir and a short act of worship led by Revd Fiona Lee of Alvechurch Baptist Church. There were also donkey rides for the children, while The Lounge was open for much-needed refreshments.

Below: Alvechurch Community Choir.

Right: A youngster enjoys a donkey ride.

34

The Village

May 2019

Village People

Village TV expert reveals secrets

on

Owners and loaners at the 2018 Gaydon handover

Barnt Green WI were treated to some television secrets when Bargain Hunt’s Ben Cooper gave a talk at their recent meeting.

Women from eight local WIs joined them for evening tea and cake, served on vintage tableware, before Ben told them all about the antiques trade as well as some insider secrets from Bargain Hunt and working in television.

Ben, who grew up in Barnt Green, was also interested to see how it had changed in the past 20 years.

Members of the audience had brought in items to be valued, and Ben equally excited and disappointed them with the results.

Back at Burcot B

Top: Choir leader Laurence Sharman keeps time using a palm frond. Above: ‘Jesus’ greets his public.

urcot Grange and The Lodge have welcomed the return of Joshua Oakes, who had been part of the Burcot family since he joined as a volunteer at the age of 17.

“Having grown up in the local area, I knew Burcot Grange and its reputation well and was proud to be part of the team,” says Josh, who secured a full-time position at 18 and was promoted to the role of senior carer within a year.

During this time he made the decision to pursue a career in nursing. With the support of the Burcot Grange team, Josh successfully completed his NVQs and matriculated at university studying Adult Nursing.

Josh continued to work at Burcot Grange doing care shifts during his degree, but in his second year he made the difficult decision to leave to focus on his studies. However, it all paid off and after three years Josh graduated with First Class Honours and became a Registered Nurse.

He has now returned to Burcot as deputy manager for The Lodge, where he prides himself on maintaining high standards with positivity and enthusiasm.

“I’m excited to be back working with the team at Burcot; it is a place that feels very close to my heart,” he says.

The Village

May 2019

35

Village Activities

the Two-stroke artists I

f youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever been heading up towards Weatheroak from Alvechurch and wondered about the strange patterns cut into the hillside like a neolithic art project, these pictures should give you a clue.

Around eight times a year, riders gather for a Weatheroak MX Practice Day, honing their skills and maintaining the enormous sculpture in the village landscape.

Apparently, the main track has the shape of a giant anteater when viewed by drone from above.

There are also smaller, flatter tracks for youg riders, where leather and helmet-clad mites look like they are riding motorbikes before they learn to walk, happily buzzing around and around.

Organiser Simon White explained that the idea of his practice days was to give riders a chance for a long session of riding for around half the cost of entering a motocross race, where riding time is shorter.

Anyone interested can find out more on social media.

The Village

May 2019

37

Pryoritising your wishes

Our Will Service will ensure your most precious assets are looked after.

The common misconception for a young family is that they have no money and therefore why would they want to make a will – but what they fail to realise is that their most precious asset is their children.

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Our will service could not be simpler: two phone calls and your will is complete.

Menu of costs (all + VAT): • Single will – £150 • Mirror (joint) will – £200 • Lasting power of attorney (property & financial) – £350 • Lasting power of attorney (property, financial, health & welfare) – £400 • Registration fee – £82pp T 0121 445 5694 W www.ppm-ifa.co.uk E lauralowndes@ppm-ifa.co.uk Pryor Portfolio is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 511176 www.fca.org.uk The Farmhouse, Pumphouse Lane, Blackwell, B60 1QN

Village Finance

Financial planning for the 100-year life Advertisement feature

Y

our chances of reaching 100 are probably greater than you imagine. It may sound fanciful, but a 100-year lifespan is well within the bounds of probability.

That could have profound implications for your retirement planning.

While the average 70-year-old man now has a 4.1% chance of reaching his 100th birthday, an average 40-year-old woman has a nearly 13.8% chance of becoming 100. And the number of people who are likely to live well into their 90s has soared.

These Office for National Statistics data are based on the entire UK population, which means that they could well be an underestimate for you. There is evidence that life expectancy is affected by levels of wealth.

There are three big issues to look out for in planning a long retirement.

INCOME IN RETIREMENT

If you retire at 65 (and do not forget that the state pension age will reach 66 by October 2020), then you could need your pension income to last for 35 years. The only way to guarantee your income for such a long period is to purchase an annuity.

However, the price you pay will reflect the potentially long payment period and current low long-term interest rates. A simple fixed annuity for a single person starting at age 65 now, with no increases, will cost about £100,000 to produce an annual pension of about £5,500.

You could take income withdrawals from your pension fund and other investments,

Martin Pryor suggests ways to ensure a comfortable long retirement.

although that would not provide a throughout-life guarantee.

Investment markets are almost bound to go through several cycles throughout your retirement. So your retirement fund would need careful management to handle the potential problems caused by drawing regular payments from it in falling markets.

INFLATION

Taking a fixed retirement income cannot be a long-term option because of inflation. The pound has lost over two-thirds of its value over the last 35 years as measured by the RPI. Even if inflation drops over the next 35 years, averaging just 2% an-

nually, today’s pound will be worth just 50p by 2054.

An inflation-proofed annuity for a single person costing £100,000 at age 65 would currently provide only a little over £3,200 a year.

FUNDING YOUR RETIREMENT

The minimum level of pension contributions for auto enrolment will be 8% of band earnings from 6 April 2019. Yet pension experts consider this will be nowhere near enough to fund a comfortable retirement for most people, even after allowing for a full state pension (£168.60 a week from April 2019).

There are plenty of suggestions for the appropriate level of savings to secure a comfortable retirement, but for a more accurate assessment, there is no substitute for the type of individual calculation we can offer, based on your personal circumstances.

The value of your investment, and any income from it, can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

Investing in shares should be regarded as a long-term investment and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence V3.0. n Contact Pryor Portfolio Management for more information: Tel: 07961 162818 martinpryor@ppm-ifa.co.uk www.ppm-ifa.co.uk The Village

May 2019

39

Village Weather

Warming up after chill

A

Alvechurch amateur weatherman Phil Thomas records the changes.

pril reversed the warming trend of the past couple of months.

Both daytime and overnight temperatures were well below what is expected at this time of year. Rainfall was also slightly below average, the one exception being the 4th with 12.5mm of rain over a short period – nearly half the rainfall for the month thus far. Temperatures were climbing as we headed towards Easter, but were then due to turn changeable.

April 2019 (to the 17th) Mean Max 10.6C 2.2 below average Mean Min 2.2C 1.4 below average Mean 6.4C 1.8 below average Rainfall 27.5mm 41% of average Sunshine 66.2 hrs 56% of average March was a month of two halves. The first 18 days were very wet with the entire month’s rainfall of 68.5mm. This was then followed by 13 days with no rainfall. This same period gave about 70% of the month’s sunshine. Again, the mean temperature was warmer than the local mean by 1.8 C.

March 2019 Mean Max 11.8C 1.8 above average Mean Min 4.2C 1.8 above average Mean 8.0C 1.8 above average Rainfall 68.5mm 152% of average Sunshine 116.2 hrs 122% of average Outlook During the first half of May, there is a slightly greater chance of some longer dry spells, but also brief, more changeable interludes. Temperatures will probably be near or slightly above average. However, as is usual at this time of year, there will be some marked variations through the period.

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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Mark Meads

Mortgage, Equity Release and Protection Specialist 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, Worcs B48 7QF

Tel : 07730 011897 Email : mark.meads@villagefinancial.co.uk Village Financial Solutions Ltd is an appointed representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network. PRIMIS Mortgage Network is a trading style of Personal Touch Financial Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Village Sport Alvechurch FC keep their eyes on the promotion prize.

A

lvechurch kept themselves in the play-off spots and managed to spoil the party for Kettering Town with a 2–1 win; Mitch Botfield’s late winner denying the runaway league leaders the chance to secure the title there and then.

Both sides came into the game determined to take the three points, but ’Church were superb throughout and got off to a dream start just three minutes in when Tom Turton’s corner found Jamie Willets, who headed home brilliantly.

Kettering created two good chances of their own, but AFC continued to impress and twice should have doubled their lead. The second half proved exciting and it was Kettering who scored soon after the re-start. ’Church, however, continued to match their hosts right up to the dramatic end, when Andre Landell pulled the ball back for Botfield whose strike squirmed through the Kettering keeper’s hands, sparking a great celebration for the visitors.

Earlier, Alvechurch had bounced back from defeat at Kings Lynn with a commanding 2–0 victory at St Ives but this was followed by a shock 5–1 home defeat to Barwell with 10 men.

Things picked up back with home wins against Hitchin and Leiston – and a fantastic 5–0 demolition of Coalville Town. ’Church were sitting in fourth position as we went to press, with a crucial away game against secondplaced Stourbridge FC about to take place.

The league champions gain automatic promotion and the next four clubs compete in the play-offs on Wednesday May 1. The team who finish second will host the team in fifth (currently Stratford Town) and the club in third (currently King’s Lynn) would host fourth place. The winners of these two matches then play each other in the final on Saturday May 4, hosted by the club finishing highest in the league.

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Play-offs becko Celebrating the win at Kettering (Photo/ Ian Macvie)

However, the winner is still not guaranteed promotion. As there is an imbalance between promotions and relegations, there will be two “super play-offs” on Saturday May 11 between the play-off winners of the four feeder leagues to step 2, with the two victors gaining promotion. These fixtures and venues will be decided after the play-offs, based on pointsper-game average over the season.

l Meanwhile, officials from the FA visited Lye Meadow to check on the upgrades required to continue playing at step 3. The club was instructed that extra seats, an extra turnstile and larger changing rooms were the major projects required to maintain its status.

Under the leadership of chairman Richard Thorndike and secretary Steve Denny, all the work was completed and the FA gave its approval.

Special thanks must go to the con-

tractors who worked so hard under such tight time constraints and to the supporters who volunteered their time prior to the inspection, tidying up the ground ensuring it looked immaculate.

l Top scorer Josh March won the Goal of the Month award for March for his first goal in the win against Lowestoft, where he smashed the ball into the top right-hand corner.

Player of the Month was recent signing Tom Tonks. Since joining from Stourbridge, his influential play in midfield and long throw-ins causing havoc in the opposition’s defence have made him a worthy winner.

Centre forward James Roberts has signed for Alvechurch on loan until the end of the season from Hereford.

The deal went right up to the 5pm transfer deadline as the club waited for FA approval. Since his arrival ’Church have won the three games he

Village Youth Sport

n for AFC

Action against Hitchin Town (above) and Kettering (below). Photos/ Ian Macvie

U9s triumph in league cup

Alvechurch FC U9s are celebrating after they secured victory in the Central Warwickshire Youth Football League Winter Cup Winter Cup. The boys scored two goals in the first half, while the opposition’s shots on target were successfully blocked by Alvechurch keeper Harry. During a nail-biting second half, the team stayed strong and netted a further two goals, finish-

ing with a well-deserved 4–0 win.

Part of the Alvechurch FC Youth section, the squad was formed just under two years ago with seven boys, signing three new players last season.

Managers Rob Southall and Shaun Hayes were delighted with the results from a fantastic season: “We are looking forward to seeing what next season has in store and hopefully winning more cups.”

has played – he scored the winner against Leiston and is a constant threat.

Former Alvechurch forward Luke Yates has joined local rivals Redditch United.

Luke played an integral part of AFC’s promotion last season, and this season has been out on loan to Highgate United and Wolverhampton Casuals.

l On Friday September 6, Lye Meadow hosts a luncheon with former Arsenal, Middlesbrough and England footballer Ray Parlour as guest speaker. Comedian Jed Stone will also entertain the audience. Tickets, priced £65 per head or £600 for a table of 10 (to include a three-course Indian meal), are available via chairman Richard Thorndike and directors Simon Redhead and Paul Weaver. 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

n Kings Norton Girls’ rugby team finished the season on a high, winning the final tournament of the West Midlands Girls’ Tag League.

Sixteen teams competed at the finals held in Rugby, and this was Kings Norton’s fourth tournament victory of a tremendous season. The squad of 19 girls, aged between 8 and 18, have improved throughout the season and have had a great team spirit throughout the year.

Earlier, the Kings Norton Rhinos’ festival season kicked off with the Under 12s, U10s and U8s inviting guests to Hopwood Park, including teams from Bournville, Camp Hill, Bromsgrove, and Sutton Coldfield– plus an U12 squad who came all the way from Abergavenny.

Kings Norton RFC would especially like to thank volunteers Tony and Marion Heafield and their team who cooked hot dogs and burgers for the children, as they have done every week for several years. At the end of this season Marion and Tony will retire for a well-earned rest.

The Village

May 2019

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Village Country Diary

Under the spreading chestnut tree M

ay is a lovely time to visit woodland, before the trees close out the light and while the trees and the plants that grow underneath them are flowering.

After a good spring, this first month of traditional summer should be full of leaf and flower, insects and birds.

There has been some interesting research on trees, which have a positive impact on our lives. Among other things, they absorb and use carbon, thus helping slow down global warming.

It was always assumed the ancient rainforests were the most important for this. Research from the University of Birmingham has shown this not to be so. The newer woodlands of the northern areas, those less than 150 years old, actually absorb more carbon, especially naturally regrown woodland.

This is because when they are in their earlier stages of growth, they can use up more carbon and

Young beech leaves

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Mary Green identifies ‘useful’ trees to look out for in May.

convert it into sugars to help them grow. It points up the importance of our looking after all our woodlands, not just the ancient ones.

When I wrote about trees last year, I missed out some of our common and useful trees, because they are not part of the Celtic calendar.

They aren’t common in the Celtic parts of the British Isles, but are in England. And you will notice them at this time of year.

The first is beech. It has beautiful lime-green leaves in late April and early May, and later in the year wonderful autumn colour. Its shape is graceful, and it can grow to be big and a great age, like oak. Unlike the

oak it is always portrayed as rather female, sometimes called the Queen of the woods. Its bark is much smoother than oak. In winter the leaf buds are long and pointed.

The spring leaves are delicate and let the sun shine through, but in summer they become thick and glossy green and form a very dense shade. The autumn leaves are redgold, and sometimes stay on well into the winter. Its seeds are called “mast” and grow in wrinkly brown cases.

Mast is an old word for food. The tree has a “mast year” every few tears and doesn’t produce in other years – a bit like the oak. Beech mast used to feed pigs which grazed in woodlands, and it can be used to make oil.

Beeches were often planted in clumps on hillsides, a good local example being Frankley Beeches.

They also provide roadside avenues in some places – there is a row between Cofton Hackett and Barnt Green. There are good ones in some of our best woods, like Peck Wood in Rowney Green. Try to catch the continues on page 46

Above left: Horse chestnut flower Ancient sweet chestnut, Piperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hill The Village

May 2019

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Village Country Diary continued from previous page

open weeks there – early this year but there are some dates at the beginning of May. Shortwood also has wonderful beeches, visible from the canal. There are good single trees, like the one just past the village end of St Laurence Churchyard, and some striking ones at the top of the footpath up Foxhill.

Beech makes good hedging, especially as smaller bushes keep their leaves into winter and even the next spring. There are some huge ancient beech hedges in other parts of the country. We have a nice smaller one in Birches Lane, Withybed Green. Birds love these for cover in early spring. Beeches are truly native in the South of England but were planted further north.

Sweet chestnut, my next tree, was introduced by the Romans and is now considered an honorary native. There are some really ancient and huge ones in England. They are well known for their edible fruit, which form well in a good summer. Their flowers are not noticeable, being strings of small green flowers coming out in July, which doesn’t give a very long ripening season if the late summer isn’t warm. The flowers have an interesting musky smell.

When the trees grow to a good size, a noticeable feature is the way their trunks grow in twisted shapes. There are some beautiful ancient ones in Piper’s Conkers Hill Wood between Hanbury and Bromsgrove. Smaller ones can be found locally on Wheeley Road, and at Hopwood.

Some lovely young ones are established in the little linear wood going out of Barnt Green on the Blackwell Road alongside the railway.

We associate the nuts with roasted chestnuts, especially at Christmas. In other European countries, where they produce a more reliable crop, they were traditionally used for flour and made into many staple foods. The trees don’t seem to be especially known for much else here, and haven’t attracted customs or legends.

Our other chestnut, the horse chestnut, comes from a completely differently family from beech and sweet chestnut, which are related. There are similarities, though: both chestnuts have shiny brown nuts, prickly seedcases and twisty trunks.

The horse chestnut came into this country in the 16th century, from the area round Turkey. It was established first in big parks and estates, becoming especially popular in the 18th century with the kind of landscaping fashionable then. Later it was planted

Spring beech

Horse chestnut avenue, Alvechurch

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Snow on yew

Cabbage white

Peck Wood in May

in streets and then in public parks, after which it spread into the countryside. By the late 19th century, it was a common feature of village greens, “under the spreading chestnut tree.”

About that time, the game of conkers began to use horse chestnuts.

The game came first, with children hitting other nuts on strings. It was called “conquerors”, shortened to conkers.

This name then became attached to the fruit of the horse chestnut when it was found to be a far superior nut for the game during the 19th century.

It took a long time for conkers to become conkers as the trees were in wealthy people’s estates for so long where local boys couldn’t reach them.

Horse chestnuts have sticky leaf buds in winter, coming out in spring to folded five-lobed leaves. When these open out, the flower buds start to rise. These become big, beautiful candle-shaped flowers in May, with a lovely perfume. The leaves are later quite thick and dark

and it was known as a good shade tree.

You can see them all over the place around here. There is a lovely avenue in The Meadows in Alvechurch, many roadside trees, some alongside the beeches at the top of Foxhill, along the canal and in fields near Alvechurch station (where many were cut down when the station was redeveloped). The trunks sometimes become twisty like the other chestnut.

In Turkey horse chestnuts were

traditionally fed to horses and used to treat their sprains and bruises.

Now modern science has found they contain something which will treat human bruises and sprains, and they are being grown for the purpose. It’s surprising how often these old remedies are being rediscovered.

Horse chestnuts aren’t as longlived as sweet chestnuts, and these days they are very susceptible to a disease which turns their leaves continues overleaf

Sweet chestnuts The Village

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Village Country Diary continued from previous page

brown before autumn comes. (They are among the first leaves to turn brown even when healthy.) The ones cut down in The Meadows had honey fungus. But for a relatively new tree, it has become a well known part of English culture. Many people think of it as being more native than the sweet chestnut. I wonder how many of us older ones grew up singing “Under the spreading chestnut tree” and doing the actions!

Flowering trees at this time of year will be full of bees and other insects, so I hope we don’t have late frosts to disturb them.

Winter robin

This month’s poem is one I wrote last year in May for the Withybed Poets and my singing friends. The goslings did survive, and the goose pair has already come back to their nesting site. The swans survived and the pair have mated again this year. And the Withybed Poets will be at the Picnic in the Park again this year, writing poems for you! I wonder if I will hear the cuckoo.

Pigs grazing in beech woods

Twisty sweet chestnut bole

Couplings The sun drips like honey into the ground Cow parsley rises in light and lace Pear blossom pulls in the bees and bluebells shimmer The sun enters my bones and I begin to glow My whiteness disappearing in the blue haze There are three cygnets clustered round the pen Nearby the cob stands sentinel, coupled to her By gossamer threads. Here the goose sits Patient on her bed of down, while the gander swims Always pointing back at her, hoping this year The gosling will survive under the alders.

Around me is all talk of weddings, flowers of spring Bubbling and laughing round the planning heads.

For me, it is a mesh of couplings, links one to one Or one to two, or three or four together My life made real and whole by these people Who surround me with love and singing Lifting my heart and body to the blessed sun

Beech trees, Shortwood

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Village Gardening

Busy month of g Hannah Genders explains how to get the best out of your veg, and looks forward to the Malvern Show.

I

Veg in pots Pre-grown broad beans

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’ve been very busy in my veg garden; well, mine and a friend’s vegetable garden which I am helping to set up. He lives on a farm just outside Alvechurch village and has been struggling with the clay soil, so we are putting in some raised beds with good top soil and compost to be able to work the top eight inches of soil so plants can grow on well before they need to get their roots down into the clay below. I’m going to keep photos of this project and let you know how it develops this year.

In every garden, especially when growing veg, there is always a pest you have to deal with, and in mine it is field mice. They are extremely cute but very annoying as they eat any seed I put straight in the ground, especially peas and beans. Once the seed has sprouted, they don’t seem to touch it, so I get around this by pre-growing all the plants in the greenhouse and then planting them out, covering them with fleece initially until the end of May when all the frost danger has passed.

I couldn’t bring myself to kill the mice, and I know they are such an important food for owls (along with voles) which we have a lot of around here. So, at one time I was catching them in a humane trap and cycling them up to the next village to let them go! The distance has to be over two miles away, evidently, because that is far enough for them not to come back. I did wonder if the residents up there suddenly noticed an influx of mice! But in all honesty, as soon as I cleared a few, some more moved in, so the pregrow method is much more effective.

If slugs are your problem, my plea is never to use anything but organic slug pellets or natural traps.

The toxic slug pellets are causing massive problems for birds and hedgehogs, because once they are in the slugs, they are in the food chain.

I put my organic pellets under an upturned flower pot with just enough room for the slugs to crawl underneath; this keeps them longer as they don’t get rained on and seems to catch the slugs really well.

I also have a hedgehog who quite regularly comes and turns over the pots and eats up what is left

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So, having pre-grown my plants in the greenhouse, I plant out. I have been using some deep hedging bags for growing everything in the greenhouse, as I find grow bags just too shallow with not enough root space. The hedging bags come from a company I use who grow mature hedges, and they are perfect for using in the greenhouse as they have a good depth to them. I fill them with my homemade compost and some soil mixed in. This gives the plants some nutrients and some water holding capacity during the hot summer months. continues overleaf

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Once I have dug out my bean plants, I will top up the soil content and plant my tomatoes and chillies out in these. When planting out I use pea sticks – just cut the branches off a shrub such as hazel, and push them into the ground alongside the bean or pea plants to give them some support. I also add about a tablespoon of organic feed such as blood, fish and bone when

I plant just to give them an extra nutrient boost.

These plants are going into a bed that was manured in the autumn and this is what they need. If you can get the broad beans going early enough, they crop early, and you don’t usually have as much problem with black fly which can be a bit of a menace in June. I’m growing a fairly standard variety of broad bean this year, although I must say I love the

Veg in small beds

Pre-grown mangetout

Pre-grown peas

Broad bean planted out

52

red-flowered heritage variety but I didn’t order the seed in time. I grow mangetout instead of peas as I just find them much easier and less fiddly. Again, these need plenty of well-rotted manure or compost to grow into and you will get a massive yield from them.

I love growing salad crops as they are very easy and tasty. I have kept a crop of rocket growing for most of the winter in the greenhouse, just cutting off the tops every time it regrows and eating them. This is also true for perpetual spinach, which is in the garden, not the greenhouse. It really does keep coming back, and with both crops you can avoid having to buy them in supermarkets in the dreaded plastic bags. Either of these plants could be grown in a pot or window box so have a go, and with the extra taste I’m sure you’ll be hooked.

The other reason May is so busy for me is that it’s the RHS Malvern Spring Festival from May 9–12.

We are doing a feature called Eco, Green and Growing, or EGG. If you are coming to the show, please drop in and say hello. We have a rolling programme of talks, interviews, demos and live music. This is the link for us: www.rhsmalvern. co.uk/whats-on/grow/

The Village

May 2019

Rocket growing in the greenhouse

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Village Stargazing The Plough

Bootes Ursa Major Arcturus

Can you spot the bear?

M

ay, and it’s nearly ten thirty before the sky is really dark enough to see anything. A massive change from December when you had to put the lights on just after lunchtime!

We are seeing the last of Mars now because it has become so faint that by the time the sky is dark enough to see it, it is too low in the northwest. A very thin crescent Moon is close by on the 7th so this may give you chance to spot it. The other planets are all in hiding until after midnight.

Facing south, the big constellation of Leo is obvious, slightly right, with its brightest star, Regulus, sitting below the reversed question mark that is his head. High above Leo is the most famous of asterisms, the Plough.

I say asterism (with some difficulty) because this well-known collection of stars is in fact part of a much larger constellation called the Great Bear or Ursa Major.

If you take some time to stare this high in the sky, as your eyes adjust to the darkness (and your neck starts to stiffen) you should

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Amateur astronomer Brian Watkiss peers into the Village night sky.

begin to see more stars appear to the right and below the saucepan, and if you imagine the handle to be the tail of the bear you should make out the vague shape of an animal. I think it looks a bit more like a pussy cat but the ancient Greeks deemed it to be a bear so we’ll go with that. Not many people have ever bothered to actually

“The ancient Greeks deemed Ursa Major to be a bear so we’ll go with that” look for this constellation so as you seek out a chiropractor to sort out that painful neck, console yourself with the thought that you are one of the few.

If you follow the curve of the bear’s tail down the sky to a more reasonable height, you will find the brightest star in the sky at the moment, Arcturus. This is the main star of the constellation Bootes, which is a sort of kite shape above it.

Now Bootes was a farmer in Greek mythology and a sort of kite shape looks nothing like your average cowhand, but if you follow the curve from the Plough through Arcturus further down, you reach another bright star.

This is Spica, sitting on the line in the sky drawn by the Sun, the ecliptic. To the right, towards Leo, is another star, Porrima (the Moon forms a line just to the right of them on the 14th).

Now if you imagine this pair to be Bootes’s feet, the true shape is revealed. The problem is, these latter two stars are nowadays deemed to be part of the constellation of Virgo, so Bootes must remain a severed torso.

So as you peer out at these shapes in the sky (as I’m sure you will), spare a thought for our half a farmer in the cosmos.

Village Art

Reflecting

Bromsgrove F

Bromsgrove artist Richard McIlwraith urges a visit to the annual exhibition at All Saints Church.

or art that reflects the wonders of our glorious town and its majestic surroundings, visit All Saints Church between May 18 and 25. Bromsgrove Art Society is holding its annual exhibition and, if it proves to be as diverse as last year’s offering, the work on show will echo the beauties and curiosities of our remarkable area.

Expect paintings of woods, parks and gardens, images of wildlife, stilllife studies and portraits of family and friends. Feel the festival spirit, the market mood, the peace of the canal-side walk and the energy of our town’s music, literature and dance as you tour the exhibition inside this impressive Victorian church.

I predict a visual snap-shot of life in our enticing region; come along and enjoy the artistic effort and evident talent of painters of varying levels of experience. The 2018 exhibition showcased 272 pieces from 61 artists.

Don’t miss your chance to see the 2019 line-up – for one week only.

I hope you allow your visit to

change you in a small way – to engage you more deeply in the arts, to inspire you to try out a new club or society, to make the most of Artrix arts centre or to stroll the woods, parks and gardens more regularly than before.

All Saints Church is located on Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove, B60 1AF. The exhibition is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday and 12noon to 4pm on Sunday.

The fee for entrance is by programme which will list all paintings, titles, artists and prices. Programmes will be on sale at the church entrance and money raised will go to the church restoration and to the organisation of the exhibition.

Bromsgrove Art Society is chaired

by Tony Turpin and the monthly meetings, which take the form of demonstrations of various art media by local and well-known artists, are held on the third Wednesday

of each month (excluding January and August) at Burcot Village Hall, Alcester Road, Burcot, Bromsgrove, B60 1BH, commencing at 7.30pm.

Please get in touch if you would like me to write about an art event near you: richard@galleryart61.com www.galleryart61.com

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Village What’s On EVENTS Alvechurch Baptist Church holds its Spring Fayre on Sat May 18 in the church hall, from 10.30am–3pm. Refreshments, books, toys, bric-a-brac, plants, crafts, fun and games. Organisers look forward to welcoming you.

Tardebigge Plant Sale takes place on Sat May 11 from 11am at St Bartholomew’s Church, Tardebigge (B60 3AH). Great plant bargains to be had – but make sure you get there early! Refreshments available.

A menopause Awareness Evening takes place on Thurs May 9 at Barnt Green Baptist Church, at 7.30pm, after the success of the previous event. Hosted by VHK Education, it will focus on a more holistic approach, and there will be talks from Deborah from Warner Nutrition and Fran from Fit4Life. Tickets £15; purchase via info@vhk.education HOPWOOD VILLAGE Hall has its AGM on Weds May 8, from 7.30pm. All welcome.

More info from Pete on 0121 445 4022.

Frankley Carnival takes place on Sat June 29, 11am–5pm on the green on New Road. Small, all-weather, family fun event – alcohol-free site,. Music, acts, BBQ, soft drinks, family games, stalls. If you’d like a stall, or can help with assembling and dismantling gazebos, litter picking or crowd control, contact Linda Coates on 07925 233738 or leave a message on Frankley Carnival Web Page.

The Redditch Cancer Research Race for Life is on Sun June 9 at 11am. Everyone in the area – women, men and children – is invited to join either the 5K or 10K route.

The course runs around Arrow Valley Park and is made up of a mixture of terrain.

Registration £14.99 per adult, £10 per child (free for under-6s). All money raised will go into Cancer Research UK’s crucial work.

Volunteers are also needed to help the day run smoothly. Sign up to race or volunteer at www.raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org SEND National Crisis Worcestershire holds a Showcase Event on May 30 outside the Guildhall in Worcester from 12noon, part of a national event to raise awareness of the gaps in funding for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Full details on the SEND National Crisis Facebook page.

St Godwald’s Community Cafe meets every other Friday (the next one is May 10)

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what’s on guide from 10.30am–12.30pm at St Godwald’s Room adjacent to the Church Hall, Finstall Road, Bromsgrove. Home made scones, cake, tea/coffee available. Come and have a chatter, play board games, jigsaws etc.

Alpha course – explore life, faith and meaning. Register your interest for our next course in 2019 at Barnt Green Baptist Church. Email outreach@bgb.org.uk or see www.bgb.org.uk ‘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 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.

MUSIC SUITED & BOOTED returns to Lye Meadow in Alvechurch on Sun May 26. Gates open 10am. The annual music extravaganza features seven live bands, a reggae room and DJs throughout the day to keep the whole family entertained until late. Early bird tickets for £10 or pay on the door (£20).

Full details at www.suitedbooted.co.uk The Asklepios Orchestra has its 50th Anniversary Prom Concert on Sun June 16 at 7.30pm in St Nicolas’ Church, Kings Norton, B38 8RU. It promises to be an exciting evening of orchestral favourites – more details next month! As always, admission is free – and donations to the retiring collection are much appreciated.

BROMSGROVE MUSIC Centre (Severn Arts) provides a Wind and Brass Band and a String Ensemble for children in the Bromsgrove/Redditch areas (approx G1-3).

Mondays 4.30–7pm at St John’s Middle School, Bromsgrove. The first term is free!

Pop along to their next free concert on Mon April 1. The centre also provides in-

dividual instrumental lessons. Visit www. severnarts.org.uk/bromsgrove-musiccentre or call 01905 947300.

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. They’ll be in the club on May 13 and the hall on May 20. The choir is an open access singing group; new members of all abilities are welcome – just go along. 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 St Richard’s Festival in Droitwich on May 5 and Alvechurch Picnic in the Park on May 26. 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.

Singing to Beat, the group for people with dementia, Parkinson’s, MS and other neuro conditions (plus carers, friends and relatives) is now at the Longbridge Retirement Village (B45 8TD) every Weds from 11.30am–1pm. Cost £3.50 for those from outside the village – all welcome. No previous experience necessary. More info from Ruth on 0121 453 6952.

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.

Bromsgrove Choral Society meets each Monday for rehearsals at 7.30pm in St John’s Middle School (Watt Close, Bromsgrove, B61 7DH). New members very welcome, please ring Eileen Kirby on 01527 871237.

Barnt Green Choral Society rehearses on Mondays at 7.45pm in St Andrew’s Church Hall, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green, in readiness for the summer Gilbert and Sullivan Concert. New members welcome, especially tenors. More info from Fiona Brown on 0121 445 5513 or www.barnt greenchoralsociety.org

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

You choose the music for quartet THE MIDLAND SINFONIA presents The Choice is Yours with the Astaria String Quartet on Sat May 18 at St Laurence Church, Alvechurch, at 7.30pm.

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.

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, but in May there are two events, on Fridays May 3 and 31. Both start 8pm sharp and still cost only £4 (£3 concessions) to come and hear some of the West Midlands’ 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.

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 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.

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 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.

Bel Canto Singers... do you enjoy singing bright and lively pieces? Join in with a

The programme is Bax’s String Quartet in G, Grieg’s Peer Gynt Suite for String Quartet, plus “audience choice”!

Upon arrival you will be given a list of popular classics from which to choose what you would like to hear in the second half.

Tickets cost £12/£11 in advance via 0121 447 7040 or 07889 147861, from www.midlandsinfonia. co.uk or from Gin & Pickles, The Square, Alvechurch. More info from midlandsinfonia@ gmail.com 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 tenor and bass voices! If you enjoy singing, the group would love to hear from you. More info at www.belcantosingers.co.uk or from Polly Speers on 01564 822672.

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

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continued from previous page morris dancing. For more details call Pam on 07961 830 831.

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 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.

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 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.

Sequence ballroom and Latin dancing every Monday evening at 8pm at the

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Longbridge Social Club, 1012 Bristol Road South, Northfield. Occasional free tuition.

All welcome to a friendly fun-filled dance.

More details from Kalvin on 07725 265024.

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.

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 Friends of Bittell Reservoirs is a group of local people interested in preserving the natural environment of the Site of Special Scientific Interest at Upper Bittell, Lower Bittell and Mill Shrub reservoirs, which are important staging posts for migrant birds and wildlife. If you have an interest in preserving this unique environment and would like to help in its preservation and maintenance, contact: Charles Deverill on cdjd26@gmail.com Men in Sheds (Redditch) is a group for those who have retired or been made redundant and want to spend time with like-minded people. They meet every Tues and Thurs, 10am–1pm, at The Old Needle Works, Britten Street, Redditch B97 6HD. Bromsgrove friendship Club meets at the Life after Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove B61 8RA on the second Tues each month at 2.15 pm. For more info please contact Millie Harries on 0121 445 5232.

Burcot Grange invites those living with dementia and their carers to attend the

Dementia Lodge Café, held on the 2nd Thurs each month at The Lodge, 23 Greenhill, Burcot, B60 1BJ. Tea and coffee from 10.30am, entertainment from 11am and buffet lunch from 12.15pm. All welcome.

Limited places – please RSVP to Kiran on 0121 445 5552 or Burcot.haa@cinnamoncc. com Rubery Community & Leisure Centre is looking for volunteers – if you have a few hours spare on a Friday, you’d be made most welcome. The centre is a registered charity run solely by volunteers. For more info, ring 0121 453 7716 or email office@ ruberyleisurecentre.co.uk 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 Burcot Grange welcomes you to enjoy High Tea (plus entertainment) with other guests and residents, on the 3rd Thurs each month from 2.30–4.30pm. Limited places – please RSVP to Kiran on 0121 445 5552 or Burcot.haa@cinnamoncc.com Catshill Carers Group is a group set up specifically to offer one afternoon a month of respite, socialising and occasional speakers to carers in the area. It meets on the last Tues each month in the coffee bar area of Catshill Methodist Church Centre in Golden Cross Lane from 2.30pm for about 1.5 hrs.

All carers welcome, as well as those who used to care for someone who may have passed away or is now in a care facility. Tea and biscuits or cake provided – no charge.

Contact Sheila (0121 445 2813) or Di (0121 445 3595) for details and encouragement.

Burcot Knit & Natter meets weekly on Mondays from 10–12am and 1–3pm at Burcot Garden Centre, B60 1PW. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3.50 to include a drink and cake.

Village What’s On 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.

Bromsgrove Speakers Club meets at The Barn at The Bell at Belbroughton every other Tues, 7.45–10pm. Everyone who wants to gain confidence in public speaking is welcome, but please tell the group that you are coming by using the ‘Visit Us’ page at www.bromsgrovespeakers.org.uk, which also contains full details of events.

Alvechurch Village Society is sailing the Cecilia narrowboat between The Weighbridge and Hopwood House on Sat May 25. Tickets £2 single/£4 return. More details from Ray on 07508 699672.

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 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 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

Fellowship to friendship Although St Laurence Women’s Fellowship has ceased to run under the leadership of Jillian Woolley, it will continue with a new name and a new leader. The new Alvechurch Friendship Group, led by Rosalind Tyler, will meet at Tanyard Close Community Centre on the 4th Weds each month at 2pm – and men are also welcome! The first event is on May 22, when Mary Green will speak on No Such Thing as Weeds. More info from Rosalind on 0121 445 0598. 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 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 every 2nd Tues of the month at Maekong Thai Restaurant, and every 4th Tues at Bromsgrove School, both 7pm for 7.30pm.

New members welcome. For more info visit www.bromsgroverotary.org.uk or contact Ron Pearce on 07703 567982.

Alvechurch Sports & Social Club has a large Function Room available for hire.

It has a bar, choice of two stages, plenty of seating, a dance floor and a capacity of 140. CHARITY fund raising events enjoy FREE room hire. Please book early; for more details contact the Club on 0121 445 2121, visit the Facebook page and leave a message, or email alvechurchssc2015@ hotmail.com Burcot Niddie Noddies spinning group meets on the 3rd Sat each month, 10am– 1pm at Burcot Garden Centre, B60 1PW. Open to all crafters, not just spinners. Bring

your own chair. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3 to include a drink and cake.

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 Barnt Green Parish Centre has large and medium sized lounges available for regular hire for some morning and early afternoon sessions each week. Please contact the Parish Administrator on 0121 447 7097.

Heart of England Speakers is a small, friendly, public speaking club, based in Knowle near Solihull. It is affiliated to Toastmasters International, and meets on the 1st and 3rd Tues every month, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at the Greswolde Hotel, Knowle. More information at www.heartspeakers.org.uk midland ancestors meets monthly at 7.45pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove, B60 1AS. On Tues May 14, John Butterworth MBE presents How the Stagecoach Transformed Our Area, looking at how the transport led to an economic boom at the end of the 18th century. More info at www. bromsgrovebmsgh.co.uk Common thread is a friendly group of women who enjoy crafts including sewing, knitting, crochet and more, together with tea, cake and chat. For more info contact Maggie on 0121 439 9324 or Jayne on 0121 445 1113.

Lickey Valley Trefoil Guild, as a branch of the Guide Association, is open to anyone over the age of 18. Make new friends, travel, explore, serve the community and help Guiding and Scouting in your area. The Guild meets at Barnt Green Scout & Guide Centre (off Blackwell Road, Barnt Green, B45 8BT) every second Weds from 7.30–9.30pm. For more info call 0121 445

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continued from previous page 3907 or 0121 445 2813 or visit www. trefoilguild.co.uk 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 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.

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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 May 20 it’s Astronomy in the Fast Lane – Cosmic Rays and Other Sources of Fast Pulses with Justin Bray. 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 May 21, there’s a visit from Alex Crawford, magical corporate entertainer. 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 May 8 it’s Too Good to Eat – Worcester Porcelain with Avril Pulley. 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. In May or June, there’s a planned trip to St John’s Church in Bromsgrove for a guided tour and a look at the parish archives. 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 May 8, it’s the return of Taunton-based Peter Triggs (and his sweets) with Decade of Smoke & Steam. 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 May 6, Ron Gallivan presents The Sinking of the Alhenia. 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 Working Men’s Club every Thurs from 8-11pm.

For more info call Mark Waring on 01562 824057, Pam Banks on 01527 759424 or Marilyn Cornish on 01905 778636.

TARDEBIGGE COMMUNITY Hall for hire: large, bright facility for functions, clubs, societies and all activities. To book call 07763 446902 or email tchbookings@gmail.com CAN YOU Hear Me? (Communication Forum) usually meets on the 3rd 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

Village What’s On 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.

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, WR9 7PN. The varied programme includes demos, workshops, garden visits and garden party, and there’s also a plant stall and raffle. Visitors welcome – just £4 to include refreshments.

More info from Barbara on 01299 851282.

Rowney Green Flower Club usually meets on the 4th Thurs of the month at Rowney Green Village Hall at 7.30pm –on May 23 Sharon Harvey will be demonstrating how to make beautiful displays. All arrangements are raffled at the end. Guests very welcome; £3 including refreshments.

More info from Felicity on 0121 445 2371.

Dodford Gardening Club meets on the 2nd Monday each month (except

Flower power on display at club Bromsgrove Flower Club welcomed talented NAFAS National Demonstrator Lorena Dyer for a demonstration entitled Lipstick, Powder and Paint. She produced nine stunning floral arrangements (including those pictured) which were then raffled at end of the afternoon.

Once again The Flower of the Month Competition and the Flower Arrangement competition (Take Three Flowers) were well supported. Members and visitors were able to purchase handmade cards and crafts from Mrs Pat Davies.

The Club meets on the third Thursday each month at 2.15pm (except Jan) in All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B61 1AF. For more information contact Wendy Robertson on 01905 480571.

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.

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

ROWNEY GREEN Horticultural Society usually meets at the Village Hall on the 2nd Thurs each month at 7.30pm. On May 9 the group welcomes Darren Rudge, who presents Practical Tubs, Pots & Hanging Baskets. Guests always welcome: £3.50 including refreshments. For more info contact Lindsay Smith on 01527 592874.

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.

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 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

Fun Flower Arranging/Floristry Classes and Workshops. Thurs evenings at The Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch. Contact Claire for more information on 07564 339157. Website: www.clairewm.wixsite. com/floralcreations BROMSGROVE FLOWER Club meets on the 3rd Thurs each month at 2.15pm (except Jan) in All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B61 1AF. On May 16, Sue Munslow presents My World of Flowers. The Flower Arranging competition for members is entitled Darling Buds of May. Blooms from members’ gardens are welcome for the Flower of the Month

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continued from previous page competition. Visitors always welcome. You might win one of Sue’s arrangements in the raffle! For more info contact Wendy Robertson on 01905 480571.

THE NORTH Worcestershire Fuchsia Society meets on the 2nd Weds each month at Bromsgrove Sports & Social Club, 7.45pm.

Info from Stewart on 01527 877662.

SPORT, FITNESS & HEALTH Cath’s Paths Walking Group meets at Barnt Green Social Club at 7pm every Weds evening (until August 28). Walks tailored to suit weather and ground conditions, appropriate footwear and clothing for active local cross country walks.

Non-members welcome. Details on 07798 831618.

Netball for all ages and abilities at Alvechurch Middle School. £4 per session.

Back to Netball (16+) for those who haven’t played since school, includes netball skills and gameplay: Mon 7-8pm, from May 13. Pay and Play Netball (16+) who just want an hour of netball – Weds 7.30– 8.30pm, from May 15. Walking Netball for those who are less mobile but still want to enjoy netball at a slowed-down pace: Weds 6.30–7.30pm, from May 8. More info from Pauline Knight on 07540 126814 or pauline.knight@englandnetball.co.uk Facebook: Netball in Alvechurch Pilates with Lottie Newberry: Physiotherapy-led Pilates classes every Mon evening in the function room above the Red Lion in Alvechurch. Contact Lottie on 07968 450673 or lottienewberrypilates@ hotmail.com. All abilities welcome.

Redditch & Bromsgrove Company of Archers meet April–Sept on Mon 6.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Meadow Park Football Ground (by Harris Brush Works – outdoors) and Oct–March on Weds 7.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Studley Leisure Centre (indoors). Really friendly no-pressure club.

New members always welcome (juniors from 8 years old, seniors from 18 to 80+, seasoned archers or absolute beginners).

Beginners’ courses run throughout the year or taster sessions by appointment.

Further info from Steve Thornton on 07811 575162 or 0121 445 5952.

Redditch Ramblers is a growing, friendly and sociable group offering a full walks programme including: * A walk every Sun usually 7–9 miles * Once a month, a choice

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of a Sat ‘A’ walk (around 10 miles) and a Sun ‘B’ walk (about 6 miles) * Monthly Saturday Safari for a more challenging walk * Fortnightly Saturday Strollers (4–5 miles). Newcomers always welcome. In addition, the group arranges holidays, coach trips and social events through the year. Full into at redditch.ramblers@gmail. com or www.redditchramblers.org.uk 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.

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.

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. For full details contact Beth on 07841 477363 or elizabethalexanderltd@gmail.com Tai Chi: would you like to make a positive change in 2019, help to relax, have a new interest and exercise? Classes at Finstall Village Hall, Wednesdays 2pm.

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 Postnatal Fridays 11am (Stretch & Relax with baby). No Yoga experience necessary See www.yogareallyworks.co.uk for more info or Facebook /yogareallyworks

Classes £7.50 each with 4 weeks payable up front. Equipment provided. Please contact Sarah on 07970 072038 or hello@ themotorcyclingyogi.co.uk Briar Rose Field Archers is a field archery club based near Bromsgrove. There are two qualified coaches for those interested in taking up the sport. For information contact briarrosefieldarchers@gmail.com Kettlercise classes at Blackwell Methodist Hall, Greenhill, B60 1BL. Mon 7.15–8.15pm, Weds 7.30–8.30pm, HIIT class Sat 8.15am. Kettlebells provided, all welcome. Contact Louise: 07792 229837.

Facebook: ‘Kettlercise with Louise: North Bromsgrove’.

Alvechurch Village Society’s next walk is on Sun May 12 when Mariea and Martin Clarke (07742 100007) lead a walk Around Inkberrow and Abbots Morton. Meet at Inkberrow Village Green/the Old Bull pub car park at 2.30pm. More info on the Society at www.alvechurchvs.org Junior cricket coaching at Alvechurch Cricket Club runs every Sun from 10am to noon throughout the season, for boys and girls aged five to 11. All abilities welcome to enjoy cricket in a friendly environment.

Led by ECB Level 2 or Level 3 qualified coaches. No charge for first session. Refreshments available. Info from Simon Bowron on 07753 621528. For details of coaching for ages 12–16, contact Nick Jones on 07779 267609.

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 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.

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

THE RAMBLERS, BROMSGROVE GROUP: Guided walking with our group for pleasure, fitness and fun. Full programme of walks / events throughout the year. More info at www.bromsgroveramblers.webs. com or Martin on 01527 857117 or Peter on 01527 558203.

Term-Time Yoga Classes: Mondays 9.30– 10.30am, Cofton Hackett Village Hall.

ALVECHURCH WALKING Buddies: join a regular local walk with like-minded people

Village Village What’s What’s On On 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.

for all levels of fitness. More info at www. merciannordicwalking.co.uk

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 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

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

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

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.

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 PILates & piloxing: (Pilates and boxing): ALL levels of fitness. Tues (Barnt Green) 7pm (Piloxing Express) and 7.30-8.30pm (Pilates Mat). Alison: 07790 916947, Facebook: ‘@AlisonBFit’, alibenford@yahoo. co.uk, www.alison-personaltrainer.com 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.

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

One Fit Mama: Mother & Baby Wednesdays, 9.45am at Rowney Green Village Hall. Like us on Facebook: One Fit Mama Alvechurch, Barnt Green & Wythall.

CATSHILL FC offers youth coaching sessions each Saturday morning at Catshill Middle School, Meadow Road, Catshill, B61 0JW. Boys and girls from Reception age upwards are welcome. Contact Gary on 07462 118920 or see www.catshillfc.co.uk for further info.

Astwood Bank Angling Club has 8 lakes, including 2 just outside Alvechurch.

Annual membership £57 adult, £42 conc, £10 juniors. Info at www.astwoodbankac. co.uk or contact Paul on 01527 522704 or abac.membership@virginmedia.com 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.

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 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 Zumba Gold: Thurs 1–2pm at Alvechurch Baptist Church. A fun, energetic class retaining the vibrancy of Zumba but without the impact and twisting around, to accommodate the more senior participant. More Information from Hayley on 01527 881404.

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. Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions. Tai Chi also takes place at Hopwood Village Hall on Tues 7pm (beginners) and 8pm (intermediate/ advanced), and Weds 10–11am. More details on 07831 743737, or see www. paintingtherainbow.co.uk for daytime classes and www.kaiming.co.uk for evening classes.

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 Hopwood 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.

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

continued from previous page Pol pol’s Playtime Stay and Play is open for 0–4 year olds, 10am–12noon every Mon, Wed and Thurs at Rowney Green Village Hall. Toys, bouncy castle, crafts, singing, instruments and bubbles at the end of each session. Free tea and coffee. £4 per child and £1 per sibling.

TINY CHURCH Lickey: babies, toddlers and carers meet in Holy Trinity Church, Lickey, on Weds from 11.15am–12.45pm during term times. Games, toys, snacks and stories, with a time to meet together with God. Just pop along or contact clive.rushton@btinternet.com RHYTHM TIME: Award-winning multi-sensory, fun music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Classes in Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Lickey and Bromsgrove: see timetable at www.rhythmtime.net/vt374 or email: rhythmtimevicky@gmail.com BABY & TODDLER swimming classes with Turtle Tots: Thursdays 9.30–11.30am in Barnt Green. Teaching water confidence, key life-saving skills & stroke development.

Great post-natal workout! More info: holly. wyer@turtletots.com Every Scout Group in Bromsgrove (which includes Barnt Green, Blackwell, Catshill, Finstall as well as the town centre) currently has girls and boys waiting to join, their numbers restricted by the ratio of adults to young people. A few more adults helping would enable existing leaders to open more Beaver Colonies and Cub Packs and allow more young people to experience Scouting. If you could spare a few hours, call Val on 01527 837060 or visit www.bromsgrovescouts.org.uk 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.

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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.

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 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 Finstall Pre-school in Finstall Village Hall, Mon–Thur 9.30am–1.15pm (termtime only). Led by qualified lower primary teacher. Visits welcome; call 07903 560787 or email Finstallpreschool@hotmail.com New Road Parents Support for parents of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans children meets monthly in Aston Fields. A confidential, voluntary, small support group for parents by parents. Individual meetings can be arranged with another parent if preferred. Close links with FFLAG. Visit www. newroad parents.org, email evansmargar@ gmail.com or call Maggie on 01527 832492 for details.

games & COMPETITIONS 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.

Village What’s On 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.

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.

A “TEXAS HOLD EM” poker tournament will be held on the first Saturday each month in the lounge at Alvechurch Sports & Social Club. Registration from 7pm for an 8pm start. Further info from Karl Farrell on 0121 445 4616 or bluenostrils@outlook.com The Friday Bridge Club plays friendly, competitive, duplicate bridge at the comfortable Burcot Village Hall. New members and visitors are very welcome. Play starts at the new time of 7pm. For further details phone Gill on 01527 401019.

Bromsgrove Bridge Club meets at the Life After Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove each Tues – play commences 7.30pm; doors close at 7.25pm. Table money (to include coffee/tea and biscuits) £3 for members, £4 for visitors, who are always welcome. The club operates a host system, which means a partner is guaranteed. Contact the Secretary, Sally Flood on 01527 832468.

BINGO every Wednesday and Sunday evening at the Alvechurch Sports & Social

LOVE YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY! Alvechurch Library hosts a regular story time for pre-school children every Tuesday at 11am. On May 7 it’s “Poppy and Sam Farmyard Tales” – enjoy the characters and animals from Apple Tree Farm, and of course the famous Little Yellow Duck to spot on every page. l One-off Children’s Events will be pro-

moted through the Facebook page, so check it out for the latest information. l A Young People’s Reward Card Double

Stamp Event takes place on Sat May 11 from 11am–12noon. A games-filled hour of fun for young people aged 11 to 24 – don’t forget the double stamps! l Art and Soul Creative hold a Hey

Clay Workshop on Sat May 18 from 11am–12.30pm. Use clay to create an imaginative selfie tile, pet portrait or mini garden critter. If you have an idea in mind, maybe bring a photo or picture or use an image straight off a smart phone!

Suitable for adults and children of all ages. Parents are requested to remain at the library during the session and are welcome to participate. You can turn up on the day but booking is advised. Cost: £1.50 per tile. l A Fun Family Craft Learning Course

(16895) on Mon June 3, 10 and 17 (3.30–4.30pm) is designed to get your imaginations whizzing, with sessions of different crafty activities for parents and children aged 5+, using a wide range of resources. Cost £15/Free (subject to conditions; details from the library). Please book in advance.

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

l Patrick’s French and Spanish classes

continue throughout the year, three days a week. Email Patrick at vdlt52@hotmail. co.uk or call 07708 027372 to see if the level the class is being taught at would allow you to join in. Numbers in the classes fluctuate – French is pretty well fully booked but there are a couple of spaces in either of the Spanish classes. Get ready for those summer holidays! l Classes from Crown Meadow First

school will be visiting during May and June to learn all about the library and spark the joy of reading and stories. l Chess Club meets every Sat morning

from 11am–12noon, run by an experienced player and coach. It provides an opportunity to play friendly games and to participate in lessons and coaching.

Open to juniors (with parents) and adults at all levels of ability from beginners to grandmasters. No charge. l There are spaces in the ChatterBooks

children’s book group, which meets monthly on Mondays from 3.30–4.30pm for children aged 8-12 years. The sessions focus on fun, creative activities based on reading and books. l Bus Pass and Blue Badge applications

or renewals can be completed at the library. Pop in to get some help. 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.

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.

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.

A popular weekly quiz takes place each Thursday at Alvechurch Sports & Social

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Village What’s On continued from previous page Club and follows the normal format. Doors open at 8pm. Organise a team, or just turn up and join a team. All welcome.

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.

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

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.

ART & LITERATURE All About The Sew holds fun and sociable sewing workshops at Alvechurch Village Hall. For more details call Lorna on 07963 734756 or visit www.allaboutthesew.com 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, and will be writing poems on commission at the Picnic in the Park on May 26. Next meeting is May 8 at 7.30pm; for details, or to ask about commissioning a poem, ring Mary on 0121 445 5957.

Forge Mill Creative Textile Group (formerly Forge Mill Embroidery & Textile Group) are a friendly group of enthusiastic local crafters, both experienced and beginners, who meet weekly on Fri mornings at Beoley Village Hall. Various techniques and media are used to create textile artwork, such as printing, dyeing, hand and machine embroidery, along with fabric manipulation. They are a leisure learning and development group and work to a set programme. If you are interested in becoming a member, contact Lynda on 0121 4453212 or Rita on 01527 545973.

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

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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 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 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.

THE “CRAFTY Ladies” craft group meets every Monday morning in Alvechurch Library from 10am–1pm, with knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting etc. More info on 01905 822722.

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 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.

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.

WOMEN’S INSTITUTES St Catherine’s WI meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday each month, in ‘The Wheel’ at Blackwell. More information

from Sue Barratt on 01527 596092 or s.barratt@bnvillej.bham.sch.uk 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 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 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 BEOLEY WI meets on the first Tuesday of each month in Beoley Village Hall at 7.30pm. For more info please contact Georgia Jacobs on 01527 62766.

Lickey WI meets on the first Tues of every month at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall (Trinity Centre), Old Birmingham Road, Lickey.

W

atercress, in season this month, has a long history of cultivation in the UK. It originally travelled by train, with “the watercress line” running from Hampshire where it was grown to London to be sold at the markets. Its punchy, peppery taste is a distinctive seasonal treat.

This bread is easy to make; it’s literally combined and then baked – no yeast, no kneading, no rising. It isn’t the sort of bread you can slice for sandwiches, but works beautifully as part of a ploughman’s lunch, or partnered with watercress soup.

Ingredients: 50g watercress, roughly chopped 110g Lancashire cheese, roughly crumbled l 175g self-raising flour, plus a little extra to dust the top of the loaf l 1 tbsp chopped chives l 1 medium potato, approx 175g l 1 large egg l 2–3 tbsp milk l 1 tsp salt l l

More info from President Janet Ratcliffe on 0121 445 0163 or see www.LickeyWI. Wordpress.com 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.

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.

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

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 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.

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.

To have your event or group listed here, send details to Sally Oldaker via the addresses on Page 3, by May 14.

Village Baking

No need to knead Keen baker Jen Morris, of Rowney Green, makes an easy loaf with seasonal watercress.

Method: 1) Heat your oven to 190C / 170C fan / Gas 5. Grease a solid baking sheet.

2) Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl, add the chopped watercress, two-thirds of the cheese, the chives and the salt.

3) Peel the potato and, using the coarse side of a grater, grate it straight into the bowl. Mix with a palette knife to combine.

4) Beat the egg and milk together and gradually add it all to the mixture, folding in with the palette knife, until you have a loose, rough dough.

5) Transfer the dough to the baking tray and, keeping the rough texture, pat it gently into a 15cm round.

6) Lightly press the remaining cheese over the surface. Sprinkle with flour.

7) Bake the bread on the middle shelf of the oven for 45–50 mins, until golden brown.

8) Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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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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