The Village, October 2018

TheVillage

villageonline.co.uk

October 2018

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TheVillage

Issue 194 October 2018

ISSN 1466-3376

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20 Years of The Village Pages 25–27

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

Summer Winners Pages 36–37

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Village News NEW FACES: Two village schools welcomed new headteachers at the start of the autumn term.

Mrs Fran Barnes (left) is now in charge at St Andrew’s First School in Barnt Green, having served as a deputy head in Smethwick.

“I’m familiar with Barnt Green as both my sons sailed at the Sailing Club,” she says. “I’m excited about being part of a school in the centre of its community, and its core values resonate with my own beliefs.”

Mrs Sally Athey is head of Crown Meadow First School in Alvechurch, and was previously assistant head at Hagley Primary School. “I feel privileged to have been chosen to build upon the school’s success and to help the children develop a thirst for learning,” she says.

Parish plan holds firm

T

he grassroots initiative giving villagers a say in planning strategy is pressing ahead despite efforts by a number of housing developers to delay its progress.

The Alvechurch Parish Neighbourhood Plan is the first in this area to take advantage of powers under the move towards “localism” created by Parliament seven years ago.

Once adopted, it becomes part of the planning process, which is why the developers circling the village are keen to influence its contents.

They have submitted representations during the six week “Regulation 16” response window before the plan

goes to an inspector for the next stage of approval.

The developers between them control enough land surrounding the village to almost double the number of homes in the parish.

Some of them are urging the parish to delay the Neighbourhood Plan until Bromsgrove District Council has carried out its proposed review of the Green Belt, or to amend it to include preferred future building sites currently within the Green Belt.

As feared, and despite it having no standing in planning policy, the GL Hearn “Barntchurch” report is referenced at length by the would-be

Short-sighted road advice visually impaired residents in Barnt Green have been advised that an overgrown hedge obstructing the pavement is not “an imminent safety issue” – because they can just cross over to the other side of the road.

A villager informed Barnt Green Parish Council that a hedge on Kendal End Road, between Cofton Church Lane and the railway bridge, was so overgrown that it was almost impossible to walk on the pavement.

Parish clerk Gill Lungley report-

ed this to Worcestershire County Council’s online “hub” and got the following response: “Although the path width is significantly reduced by vegetation, this will be addressed on our next cut. As there is a good clear path on the opposite side of the road I don’t regard this as an imminent safety issue.”

Ms Lungley said: “It’s good news that the hedge will be cut, but WCC seemed to miss the point that visually impaired people are particularly at risk when crossing the road.”

developer of at least two of the sites.

Neighbourhood Plan steering group member Coun Adrian Smith told Alvechurch Parish Council: “There have been quite a few big developers looking at sites around Alvechurch for the future. They are being opportunistic at the moment.”

Coun John Cypher, another steering group member, added: “Some of the developers were wanting to use the revised national policy to make us hold back, so that some of the sites they were keen to promote could be included in the Neighbourhood Plan.

“But Matt Stanczyszyn’s advice was to press ahead and get it done.”

Mr Stanczyszyn is the Neighbourhood Plan group’s contact at Bromsgrove District Council, which oversees its creation and adoption.

If approved by the inspector, the district will hold a referendum across Alvechurch parish to seal the approval of villagers.

Coun Cypher said: “With a fair wind, Bromsgrove is suggesting that the referendum could take place by the end of the year.”

The parish council agreed to extend the role of the Neighbourhood Plan steering group to look at the “issues and options” under consideration for Bromsgrove’s plan.

The Housebuilders’ Neighbourhood Plan: See pages 16-17

The Village

October 2018

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Village News Tennis twins Simon and Paul Cowie (right) went head to head in the men’s final of Barnt Green Tennis Club’s annual championship.

After a keenly fought match, Simon (holding the cup) prevailed 6-2, 2-6, 6-2.

The women’s doubles title was taken by Lucy Challinor and Sally Gillespie (right). The remaining adult finals were still to be played as The Village went to press.

Bridge work begins W

ork towards the installation of a footbridge over the railway at Cofton Hackett has finally begun, Barnt Green Parish Council heard.

Chairman Robert Cholmondeley told councillors that Network Rail was constructing a temporary roadway beside Bittell Farm Road in preparation for the footbridge, which will replace the “yellow brick road” foot crossing.

“It seems that for once Network Rail have kept their word, as they told us work would begin in September,” he said. “Apparently the bridge should be completed over the winter months.”

Network Rail closed the foot crossing in summer 2015 for safety reasons, in the face of opposition from residents and walkers, and decided to install a footbridge – estimated to cost £1million – as a diversion would be too long. Since then, work has been postponed a number of times.

The bridge scheme has been met with raised eyebrows in Alvechurch, where councillors were told Network Rail did not have enough money to finish the station car park.

Alvechurch parish chairman Andy Humphries commented: “Interesting that Network Rail can

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October 2018

find the cash for a footbridge for a handful of walkers but can’t manage to fund improving the car park at Alvechurch station, which would benefit hundreds of rail users.”

Meanwhile, Barnt Green Parish Council has written to West Midlands Trains, which now has responsibility for Barnt Green station, asking for improved signage.

“Platform 1, where passengers catch the new Bromsgrove service, does not have an information screen, so you have to cross over to another platform to find out the train times,” said clerk Gill Lungley.

Coun Joe Nilsson pointed out that since the bridge still has no lifts, people in wheelchairs or travelling with pushchairs would not be able to do this.

There is still no definite date from Network Rail on when the longpromised lifts might be installed.

Traders’ fears over lengthy road closure

PLANS TO replace the water main in Barnt Green’s high street have been met with concern by councillors and traders.

The parish council was told that Hewell Road could be closed for “many months” while the work is carried out. As well as the disruption to residents and motorists, there are fears that shoppers will go elsewhere and never return.

“An analysis of the work is currently being carried out, and we will make strong representations to ask that the road is closed in sections, rather than all at once,” said parish clerk Gill Lungley.

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Village News

20mph back on agenda A 20mph SPEED limit through the centre of Alvechurch is back on the cards after a three-way meeting between the parish, district and county councils.

Parish chairman Andy Humphries told Alvechurch Parish Council: “Worcestershire County Council has no good reason for turning down 20mph limits so we persuaded them to produce a proposal.

“We looked at having some 20mph somewhere in the middle of the village and the highways officer is to draft up in the next six weeks

a proposal for new speed limits through the village.”

The meeting also focused on parking. “We talked at length about more on-street parking and fewer double yellow lines, but there were a number of concerns from officers,” said Coun Humphries.

Coun Marc Worrall added: “There were good technical reasons as to why the double yellow lines were there. The bottom line was they thought only two more parking places could be gained.”

One idea to come out of the meet-

ing was to enforce a one-hour parking limit during the night at Tanyard Lane car park to prevent long-term parking, although residents would be able to acquire a permit if necessary.

Meanwhile, a meeting between the parish council and MP Sajid Javid raised hopes that he may be able to help with a permanent speed camera on the A441 at Hopwood, where three years ago the now Home Secretary stood with Coun Humphries and witnessed “lorries flying down the road.”

Hopwood mums win play backing A group of Hopwood mums, with the backing of Alvechurch Parish Council, are a step closer to seeing their children playing on new equipment.

Since approaching the council last year, they have raised two thirds of the £30,000 needed to install the equipment on the parish-owned Hopwood playing fields. £10,000 of this is coming from the Bromsgrove “new homes bonus” after the mums presented their plea to the panel deciding the awards.

Coun John Cypher said: “We applied for money under the new homes bonus scheme and sent a delegation, including a Hopwood mum and her daughter, to meet the panel.

“We blew the panel away,” he added.

“There is a bit of play equality in this.

There has been a lot spent on the Meadows in Alvechurch village and these mums would like some spent in Hopwood.” n The parish council is to investigate installing a large sign and posts to tie dogs to at The Meadows after some villagers had called for a fence to be installed around the new play equipment there to keep dogs out.

“The fencing idea is out. I don’t think that is what we are about,” said Coun Marc Worrall.

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October 2018

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Marking the end of WWI

PLANS TO commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I are under way in Alvechurch and Barnt Green.

A Peace Concert takes place at Alvechurch Middle School at 7.30pm on Friday November 9, with performances by Alvechurch Community Choir, Cantare Choir, Crown Meadow Peace Choir, Acoustic Belles and Withybed Poets. Entry is free, but it’s advisable to get a ticket to ensure a seat – these are available from The Lounge.

On Sunday November 11 there’s an 11am service at the green on Bear Hill, at which the Community Choir will also sing.

The parish council was nominated by the county council to receive a free day’s labour by Ringway engineers in preparation for the commemorations – this will include cleaning the bench and repairing the damaged wall on the green.

Barnt Green Parish Council has decided to install a flagpole in Millennium Park, with a plaque to mark 100 years since the Armistice. It is hoped that this will be in place by November 11.

Councillors also discussed suggestions for a commemorative tree or bench on Parker’s Piece playing field.

Village News Fears of a rise in crime have prompted villagers to look at restarting a number of Neighbourhood Watch schemes.

Alvechurch district councillor Kate Van Der Plank told parish councillors: “Because historically it has been a low crime area we may not have been as vigilant.”

Parish chairman Andy Humphries said it could be that social media “amplified” fears.

“In the past they would have told their neighbours over the garden fence, whereas now they tell the whole village,” he explained.

Alvechurch Parish Council officially thanked assistant clerk Wendy Carney (left), who is retiring after 16 years. The council, along with Lickey & Blackwell, also thanked lengthsman Ron Rand (left) for his years of service covering both parishes after he stepped down. Lickey & Blackwell’s footpaths warden David Crockett, also retiring, received thanks for his hard work.

A new volunteer is needed to take on the role – any enquiries to clerk Lisa Winterbourn at: eo@lickeyandblackwellpc.org

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October 2018

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Village News

Prizes to be won in home contest I

The Village magazine is not the only local business celebrating its second decade – Hopwood Garden Centre also has its 20th birthday this year.

Owned by Lin and Pete Joannides, the centre on Ash Lane is known for its friendly customer service.

n conjunction with Alvechurch Pumpkin Festival, Alvechurch Village Society is encouraging residents to enter a Best-Dressed House competition on the theme of Pumpkins and Halloween.

Entry forms can be obtained by calling 0121 445 1683, emailing alvechurchsociety@outlook.com or collecting from the Parish Office or library. Return by email or deposit in the boxes at the library or parish office no later than Monday October 22.

Judging takes place between October 24 and 26, and prizes will be awarded to the winner and runner-up at the Festival on Saturday October 27, from 11am–4pm in Alvechurch Village Hall. n To mark National Tree Week (November 24 to December 2),

Lickey & Blackwell Parish Council is holding a children’s competition.

Entrants should draw or paint a picture of their favourite tree or write a poem about a tree on A4 paper, and put their name, age and phone number on the back.

Take completed entries to the Parish Office (Trinity Centre) by Friday November 23. There will be three winners in different age categories. Prizes will include a tree planted in their honour. n This year’s Oakalls Community Christmas gathering takes place on Sunday December 23 at 6.30pm, on the open grassed area by the notice board and Trianon Road. Blackwell Concert Band will accompany the carols and there will be refreshments, sweets and a visit from Father Christmas.

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Finstall

and The Oakalls are to benefit from a new cycleway, as part of a transport and highways plan being rolled out across Bromsgrove, writes Sarah Rees. The cycleway will run from Heydon Road in Finstall under the railway bridge and join up with the cycleway by the playing field near the railway line on The Oakalls. Further information can be found on the Worcestershire County Council website.

Barnt

Green Parish Council has co-opted two new councillors: Harrison Rone-Clarke and Joe Nilsson, both of whom live in the village.

Alvechurch

Parish Council has made an official complaint to the chief executive and leader of Bromsgrove District Council about representation in Alvechurch South ward since the illness of incumbent councillor June Griffiths 15 months ago. The parish council said it had received no response to a previous letter to Coun Griffiths and her “stand-in”, Coun Kit Taylor. They had shown “disrespect” by not responding to the parish’s letter, said Coun Marc Worrall.

A district

councillor is proposing that the council on which he sits should be abolished. Coun Charlie Hotham, who is also a county and parish councillor, says it would make sense for Bromsgrove District Council to make way for a single “unitary” authority. “Do we really need all these people?” he asked. “I have seen the financial projections for Bromsgrove and the money is not there.”

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Village News Focus

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Alvechurch FC

(Not to scale)

epending on your point of view, this map could look like a fantastic opportunity to expand a village into a vibrant near-town . . . or it could leave you feeling surrounded, like beleaguered Britain in the Dad’s Army title sequence.

Whichever way you look at it, the red shapes on the left – all currently in the Green Belt – could mean an enormous change.

They make up around 2,200 new homes. To put that into perspective, the whole parish area currently has around 2,350 homes and Alvechurch village 1,700.

Doubling the size of a settlement is something that should be planned very carefully, with an over-arching vision to improve the lives of present and future villagers (or townies!)

That is the aim of the Alvechurch Parish Neighbourhood Plan (APNP), which is being prepared under powers created by the Localism Act of 2011.

It has been six years in the making, so far, and while these proposals by developers have no doubt been in the pipeline far longer, it is the consultation on the APNP that has brought them together as a stark vision for Alvechurch parish.

And there may well be other potential development sites yet to be revealed: the ones here are those raised by developers in the process of submitting their responses to the APNP. It may come as a shock to many villagers to find, for example, that the view they currently enjoy from Alvechurch of

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Gallagher Estates: 128 acres, 1,300 homes Gallagher Estates: 70 acres total, 32 acres for 300 homes Taylor Wimpey: 32 acres, 250 homes Barratt Homes: 15 acres, 180 homes Private consortium: 7 acres, 55 homes Private consortium: Unknown James Christopher Homes: Unknown.

(The brown areas show the present built-up residential areas. The representation of Bordesley is to a smaller scale than Alvechurch.)

neighbourhood plan Newbourne Hill rising up to Rowney Green may, in the not-too-distant future, have at least 250 homes in the foreground as the fields either side of the bridlepath behind Sandhills Nursery are bulldozed. Similarly, the views over the fields south of Station Road might one day be filled with new roofs.

The big developers’ latest submissions to the APNP process are, for now, being set aside and the parish is forging ahead towards getting the plan adopted.

But the housebuilders will keep pushing: it is a gradual process, by which the industry has softened up public opinion enough that the APNP itself accepts there may need to be “some Green Belt release” of land around the village in the future.

Even this provision is not enough for some housebuilders who say national planning policy has

changed and the fact there is going to be a Green Belt review as part of Bromsgrove’s District Local Plan means the APNP should be put on hold.

For example, Taylor Wimpey, which wants to build 250 homes between Swan Street and the Alvechurch Bypass, says they are: “concerned that progression of the Alvechurch Parish Neighbourhood Plan is premature.”

And the agent for Gallagher Estates, which wants to build 1,300 homes in the parish at Bordesley and 300 behind Station Road and School Lane close to the centre of Alvechurch village, refers to the “Barntchurch” Strategic Growth Study.

This is the report attempting to sledgehammer people into submission by suggesting we need to allow a 15,000-home settlement between Alvechurch and Barnt Green to take overflow housing from Birmingham.

“It is considered important that the Neighbourhood Plan needs to take into account of the implications of the Strategic Growth Study for the emerging policies of the Local Plan Review and consequent scale of future development envisaged for the Neighbourhood Plan area,” says Gallagher.

For now, such submissions are being resisted, but this activity shows the importance of villagers getting behind the APNP process.

We also have the chance to find out more about the District Local Plan, starting with “Issues and Options” events being organised across The Village area. As we went to press, the date for the Lickey & Blackwell consultation was set for October 1 at The Wheel, Blackwell, from 7–7.45pm. The date for the Alvechurch event is October 16, from 3–8pm in the committee room at Alvechurch Village Hall.

The Village View: Page 21

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Alvechurch Parish Council News

NEWSLETTER Autumn 2018

trict as a whole might affect us. Several years ago the parish council asked local people who were interested to join the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group. We’re doing that again now… it’s vital that local people are aware of the issues and work with councillors to get the best future for Alvechurch.

the meadows/wiggin

The new play facilities were installed in July by Sutcliffe Play: risky play equipment, a double zip wire and gym equipment. This was widely used over the school holidays and has been checked and adjusted by the company. The parish council is monitoring its use but we ask anyone who spots a problem with anything in The Meadows to get in touch.

Most comments on social media were very positive and councillors discussed the implications in September. They also discussed the “graffiti incident” and praised Bromsgrove DC’s out-of-hours clean-up team for a rapid response. Thanks to those who alerted APC on Facebook.

Another litter bin will be installed and existing bin locations may change but recycling facilities are not practical. Those who drive to the playing fields are asked to be extra careful with their speed as more children are likely to be around. An overhead barrier at the gates will soon be installed.

Councillors carefully considered the need for fencing and this is a possibility in future. In the short term new signs will be erected clearly separating the responsibility of the council (as owners of the land and managers of the equipment) from those of playing field and play equipment users, including dog owners. A new risk assessment of the fields as a whole will be carried out, allied to advice from Bromsgrove DC, before any final decisions are made on fencing.

Finally, after tree surveys earlier this year, some pruning and remedial work will take place this winter to fit alongside the risk analysis.

hopwood playing fields

Hopwood is very likely to get new equipment too, thanks to a £10,000 New Homes Bonus grant from Bromsgrove DC. An additional £9,000 has been committed towards a target of £30,000. Work is underway to secure the remaining £11,000 and prepare a design with likely installation next summer. The parish council is writing to local businesses asking for support and the scheme (driven

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alvechurch south

by the self-styled Hopwood Mums) may feature as a good news story on Radio Hereford & Worcester. This will be the second phase of improvements at Hopwood, after earlier work on the community centre.

neighbourhood plan

The final part of the statutory consultation process (known as Regulation 16) finished in August and 17 ”representations” were received by Bromsgrove DC, mainly from developers expressing an interest in land in the parish. This was expected, but nothing can happen until BDC has carried out a Green Belt review.

An independent examiner is now reviewing the Alvechurch Neighbourhood Plan (expected to be complete by the end of October) and following any modifications the examiner feels are essential, the Plan will go to a public referendum in December.

If adopted, the Plan should take its place as part of the statutory planning framework in the District and the Steering Group, led admirably by Coun Adrian Smith, can relax slightly after several years’ hard work.

Bromsgrove DC have begun reviewing their own District Plan, adopted in January 2017. BDC are consulting local people now on the options for future development across the district. That consultation lasts until November 19 and the BDC website has information on how they intend to review the Green Belt, decide on future housing, economic and infrastructure needs and bring these together into a revised District Plan.

BDC will arrange an exhibition in our parish in October to help residents understand how issues facing the dis-

Do you live in Alvechurch South and are you being represented? Residents of Bordesley, Rowney Green and parts of Alvechurch may be interested to know that the parish council has made a formal complaint to both the Leader and Chief Executive of Bromsgrove DC about the adequacy of district councillor representation in Alvechurch South. Anyone living in the ward who has had problems contacting or getting a response from their district councillor should get in touch with us.

in brief

l Two Alvechurch events will mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I: a Concert for Peace on the evening of Friday November 9, at the Middle School, led by Alvechurch Community Choir, and a service on the village green on Sunday November 11, starting at 10.50am, and led by local ministers. The choir will also sing. l In August, councillors met Sajid Javid MP to remind him of parish issues. Policing and “Barntchurch” were discussed and Sajid agreed to take our longstanding request for a fixed speed camera on the A441 in Hopwood to the West Mercia Police & Crime Commissioner, John Campion. l A planning application on behalf of Simply Fresh was turned down on appeal; APC is liaising with the Post Office about the implications for a future Post Office in the village centre. l Christmas lights switch-on in Alvechurch village centre is Friday November 30. Next year’s Picnic in the Park will be held on Sunday May 26.

Contacting the Parish Council

You can contact the Parish Council about any of these issues on 0121 447 8016 or email clerk@alvechurch.gov. uk The minutes of recent PC meetings appear at www.alvechurch.gov.uk and you can find us on Facebook under Alvechurch Parish Council.

The views and opinions on this page are those of Alvechurch Parish Council.

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Village VillageViews Views

Despair over speeding Dear Editor – Can I add to your volume of motor-related concerns.

My gate is within 2ft (old money) of the Radford Road “motorway” in Weatheroak. This is known locally as “Blind Man’s Alley”, as most motorists cannot see the 30mph limit or pedestrians, or other means of transport (horses and bicycles).

The police have confirmed that they will need to be notified of at least two deaths before they are prepared to take any action.

Apparently the location is too dangerous to provide a radar trap.

The residents’ association has asked for volunteers to sacrifice themselves in the interests of village safety, but surprisingly there have been no applicants.

We are all in despair that peaceful protest falls on deaf ears, or in the case of the local authority, impotence and lack of action due to “under resourcing”, which basically means “we are wasting your money on mismanagement”.

I am left to reminisce that happiness is only in the past and I am old enough to remember the days when I could walk to and from the Coach and Horses in blissful safety on the carriageway (no footpath); all I would meet was the occasional herd of cows, sheep and the odd tractor.

As somebody said recently: “We are a third world country without the sunshine.”

I have several thoughts with regard to relieving the problem, none of which, however, are legal – but

Have your say . . . about anything!

20

The Village

October 2018

so what, neither are the drivers who grossly exceed the speed limit.

David Barton, Weatheroak, Alvechurch

Politicians are too car-centric

Dear Editor – I was dismayed to read your article in September concerning our recently-elected “independent” politicians and their desire to “solve the growing parking problems across Alvechurch”.

So we have elected yet more car-centric politicians who refuse to accept the problem we have is too many cars, not too few car parking spaces.

The claimed hope that “a solution will also help to reduce traffic volume and speeds through the village centre” is ridiculous. By increasing car parking spaces around the village centre you encourage

more people to drive, rather than walk, there. And if you want to reduce speeds, try adopting “20 is Plenty”, but in the meantime start by ensuring existing speed limits are enforced.

The village centre is, in fact, well provided with parking spaces, given that, in addition to the parking in The Square, we have the Tanyard Lane car park and also the Alvechurch Sports and Social Club car park for much of the time.

Unfortunately, the Tanyard Lane car park is often quite full because it is probably being used by some residents as extra parking spaces for their multiple cars. I do hope the social club receive adequate recompense for the parking spaces they give over to car users.

I doubt our councillors have done any analysis of village centre parking habits or tried to improve the signage from the village square

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 October 17.

to the alternative car parks and vice versa. Apparently, streets “are becoming clogged as the number of cars per household increases, with driveways only having room for one vehicle”.

People make choices; why should tax payers be left to pay for parking for people who chose a home that has insufficient parking spaces for the number of cars they choose to have? Looking around, many residents are, in fact, taking on responsibility for the extra cars they are buying and are widening their drives at a cost to themselves.

Agreed, “the problem is particularly acute near the station as better train services attract more commuters”. But why do people choose to drive to the station?

I doubt any investigation has been done about this either.

Why not charge for the car park, like most other stations? This would encourage more Alvechurch residents to walk to the station and deter those from further away who drive to Alvechurch to avoid the charges at nearby stations, such as Barnt Green.

If better train services attract more commuters why are our councillors not looking at improving other public transport options? The bus service in Alvechurch is woeful; if we had a decent bus service it could make the decision to ditch that second, or third, car more feasible for some residents.

We have many properties in Alvechurch that were built before the car became king and these were built with little, or no, parking. It is these residents we should be looking to help, given they take these properties on, maintain them in good order (not cheap) and provide the village with much of its character.

One of our local councillors claims “any residential parking permits, such as those investigated for Bear Hill, would have to be introduced across the whole village”. This is nonsense. If our councillors did their research they would find many parking schemes around the country have zoned areas applying to specific streets, or even parts of streets.

As well as the suggestions above, in their quest for parking solutions I would ask our councillors to consider where people might park their bikes. It would be nice to be able to have somewhere to leave our bikes when cycling out as a family and visiting local shops and cafes in the village.

Howard Allen, Alvechurch

Bonfires should be consigned to the past

Dear Editor – While there is much talk presently of new and old Cofton Hackett coming together and new exciting plans going ahead, what a pleasure it was continues overleaf

TheVillage View . . .

T

wenty years on from our first issue, and what is most noticeable from a brief look at our coverage then and now is the resounding success of the housebuilding industry and their lobbyists.

When it was proposed back then to take fields around Alvechurch and Barnt Green out of the Green Belt and call them ADRs or, more accurately, “future building sites”, there was uproar – led by our representatives in Bromsgrove and even at Westminster.

Our MP, Julie Kirkbride, a Conservative, told The Village in 1998 she wanted to see new homes built on brownfield sites and described any use of the Green Belt as “the politics of capitulation”.

That capitulation is almost complete. The Conservatives taking decisions for us at Bromsgrove in 2018 seem hell-bent on giving up swathes of our Green Belt to housebuilders and when our current MP, also a Conservative, was asked about “Barntchurch”, his first response, apparently, was amusement.

And all the while, the housebuilding companies are raking in vast amonts of money, with one chief executive even taking a bonus of £110 million.

There are a number of reasons why business is so profitable for them, but top of the list must be that, compared with building homes on brownfield sites, whacking them up on pristine, green fields in areas of high property values is much easier and makes much more money.

When coupled with the housing crisis created by incompetent, or calculating, Governments and their destruction of public sector housing, the housebuilding industry can even make it sound like they are doing us all a big favour.

If you want more houses, they say, we’re not going to build them on tricky brownfield sites in areas where our brick boxes won’t fetch a king’s ransom; what we’ll do is wait until you’re desperate, then find a report suggesting whole new towns in the rural Green Belt.

In their dreams, one of those “garden villages” might even get through if they have managed to sway public opinion far enough. If not, then with public resistance suitably softened, at least they can appear to compromise by just taking all the fields around our villages to build on (with the enormous strains that will place on existing infrastructure).

Thank goodness a small group of “ordinary” villagers took it upon themselves to start work six years ago on the Alvechurch Parish Neighbourhood Plan.

Without them, the capitulation would be complete.

We wish all power to their elbow in standing firm against the inevitable onslaught, and hope other parishes preparing their own plans will be in time.

The Village

October 2018

21

Village Views continued from previous page

to experience on a warm endof-summer’s evening, at no later than 6pm, the sights and smells of thick, white, acrid smoke (pictured below) from materials being burnt with no thought or consideration for those in the surrounding houses and gardens.

This relic of old Cofton Hackett deserves to be exactly that, a relic of the past. Any young children out playing, anyone with asthma or breathing difficulties stood no

chance from the clogging disgusting smoke being inflicted on all those around.

Too cheap to pay for a green waste bin, perhaps? Too selfish to think of others and wait till later in the year, for sure.

Cofton Hackett resident

Barnt Green is blooming

Dear Editor – Thank you to our parish council for our lovely flowers in Barnt Green this summer; the plants came from Where Next and Gill [parish clerk] has used her dead-heading skills as well as organising the watering. They have been excellent and still are!

Rachel Banner Barnt Green

Links to poignant wartime tale

Dear Editor – Your online article [originally published in July 2011] about the tragic crash of the wartime Blenheim aircraft was very interesting.

22

The Village

October 2018

Where’s Vinny?

If you scoured the pages of your September magazine in vain, there’s no need to book a trip to Specsavers just yet. . . Vinny wasn’t there! The cheeky hedgehog had sneaked into the editor’s suitcase for a week in Bulgaria instead of playing hide-and-seek.

So, in this October issue, there will be two chances to win a prize, with Vinny hiding in two places in the magazine (the one shown above is just a guide).

We’ll be making two prize draws – if you enter by midnight on October 9, you’ll go into the first draw, so that we can get the winner’s picture into the November magazine. Everyone who enters after this date, up until midnight on the 18th, will go into the second draw.

To enter, tell us where one or both Vinnies are hiding via phone, email or post – please include your contact details, especially if leaving a voicemail message.

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!

I’ve now lived in Kinver for about 18 months, just a short (but steep) walk from the church of St Peter’s.

I often walk up there but today I visited the graves of Pilot Officer Shirlaw and his Observer, Pilot Officer Dugdale. I thought it very poignant that they are interred side by side with the two headstones joined as one.

It’s a beautiful quiet spot up there and from just across the little lane to the main churchyard, there are magnificent views looking over Kinver and the surrounding countryside.

Many years ago I lived in Birmingham, for a while in Northfield, and am very familiar with

meanwhile, Barnt Green sisters Alice and Lucy Marwick, aged eight and six, were the winners of the previous month’s competition.

the areas you represent, but for well over 50 years I’ve lived in West Wiltshire, about seven miles from the city of Bath.

I’ve returned to the West Midlands, not without some trepidation at first, but now I don’t regret the move at all.

David West, via email

Happy birthday to you!

Dear Editor – Many congratulations on 20 years of The Village!

Loads of people love it and it’s the most popular publication in my waiting room.

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Village Focus

Can it really be 20 years?

I

Richard Peach looks back to the launch of The Village as the magazine celebrates a big birthday.

(and that is probably the first time I have used that word under my byline in this magazine) am 20 years older and possibly a little wiser than I was that day in October 1998 when the first boxes of The Village arrived at our office.

I was co-running a public relations and marketing firm in the trendy Custard Factory in Birmingham back then, but we were soon to move to offices on the top floor of 50 Hewell Road, Barnt Green, above what is now a travel agent, but was then a dress shop.

We’d be in the heart of The Village patch – and I’d be much closer to home, which was handy with two young children to keep up with.

Sandwiched between our office and the dress shop was (and still is, I believe) Alvechurch Plumbing & Heating Services, from whence the redoubtable owner would invariably be making himself heard.

Those were heady days for a latethirty-something, sometimes working until four in the morning or later to hit deadlines. It looks like madness from my current vantage point, approaching my 60th year, so why on earth did I start a magazine, with the enormous volume of work that entailed, and for very little financial reward in return?

Weirdly, I’d always enjoyed playing with typewriters as a child, creating “printed” words on pages and making booklets. I think it all started on a Cub Scout visit to a large city

newspaper office in Sheffield in the 1960s. There, I had been fascinated by the machines that produced thousands of words per second on paper as it flew by and even more enthralled by the excitement leading up to this point, from the newsroom to the presses starting to roll.

The vast amount of manpower and investment needed to produce a newspaper or magazine in those days meant my dream was, at most, to be a reporter; perhaps on a weekly paper somewhere.

As it turned out, my first job was on an evening paper, where I learned all I could about covering court hearings and council meetings, making contacts and developing the sixth sense that alerts reporters to the human interest stories that are all around us and might otherwise go unnoticed.

By chance, I discovered I was also good at the “production” side of newspapers; rewriting other reporters’ stories to fit the required space and coming up with memorable, or at least serviceable, headlines.

Also by good fortune, and in spite of never having had an art lesson in my life (I did Latin instead at school), I found that creating the designs for pages, with the spaces for the stories and photographs to fit into, also came naturally.

Armed with these skills, I could move quite rapidly from job to job, from Scunthorpe to Grimsby to Bir-

mingham (how glamorous!) and on to the national press, parts of which were still actually in Fleet Street.

After a sojourn on the now-defunct Auckland Star in New Zealand I arrived back in Birmingham in the early 1990s and by 1993 was living in a 1930s semi on the Birmingham Road, Alvechurch, where our second daughter was born on the living room floor.

By 1998, even after five years in the village, I would no doubt still have been considered a “newbie” or “incomer”, but Alvechurch felt like home to me, being the longest I’d lived in one place since childhood.

My reporter’s nose could sniff all sorts of stories in the village air and I started playing with designs for a magazine for the area from very early on.

The “desktop publishing” revolution meant people like me could now just about produce a magazine without the resources of a large publisher and I still have the files of those early designs somewhere, almost all with a cover bearing the same photograph I’d taken of Morris dancers outside The Crown Inn at Withybed Green, Alvechurch. It was during the continues overleaf The Village

October 2018

25

Village Focus continued from previous page walk from The Crown in the Autumn of 1997 on the Alvechurch Alight lantern procession that the idea for a magazine to reflect the community spirit so evident around me began to crystallise.

Around the same time, the threat to the Green Belt protecting Alvechurch and Barnt Green was becoming clear, with the proposal for ADRs (so-called “areas of development restraint”), which we were later to call FBSs (future building sites), to the annoyance of planning officers.

A public meeting was held at Alvechurch Men’s Club, as the social club was called in those days, in 1997 with Mike Scanlon, chairman of Alvechurch Parish Council, controlling things from the stage. Many of the people I would come to know well were vocal at the meeting, including the Labour district councillor for Alvechurch Derek Waters; new parish councillor Roger Hollingworth; and Village Society stalwart Jim Parker – none of whom, sadly, is still with us.

On that hot night they struggled to be heard as the bar enjoyed voluminous trade and the locals became restless; but the feeling and passion was impressive to my journalist’s ear.

I decided then and there that “something had to be done” and when my then business partner moved into the area, too, it was soon all systems go – on top of all the other things we were doing that actually made money.

Apple co-founder Steve Jobs used to say that if you are going to succeed in any business, you need to love what you’re doing so much that you’ll keep on doing it whatever happens. That was certainly true for me and The Vil-

26

The Village

October 2018

lage: I don’t think it made any money for the first few years and my business partner soon moved with her family to the Lake District, so I was left keeping it going on my own.

It still looked like there were more people involved than was perhaps the case. My name appeared in the magazine sometimes, but so did others, most memorably Graham (sometimes Graeme) Mellor, who turned his hand to writing anything, for he was me.

I particularly enjoyed the letter we received once in the early 2000s after “Graham” had inadvertently advised walkers to follow a path for “a few hundred miles to the next stile on the right”.

The letter writer was “concerned that Graham didn’t at least suggest they take a packed lunch” to sustain them on such a long walk.

My then-wife used to write lots of features for the magazine, too – under her own byline of Jenni Ameghino, but also as her alter ego Liz Dove. She was still working at The Birmingham Post in those days, interviewing people like Douglas Hurd or FW de Klerk for The Post one day and a Hopwood belly dancer the next for The Village.

The gardening column was written by the real Anne Guest, later to become the teacher “Miss Guest” at Alvechurch Middle School, and our restaurant reviews were signed off by La Gourmande. I promised then not to reveal who she was, and even though she is no longer in the area, I’d still better keep schtum.

Inevitably, and despite the help, there was a point when it did become too much, and for me that was when we as a family decided to move to Malvern and had got as far as pro-

ceeding with a house purchase and signing our daughters in at schools there. Even after all of the effort that had gone into getting the business close to profitability, I couldn’t see the point in keeping it going from such a distance (and already, madly, had designs for a Malvern magazine!) and so in the spring of 2001 the last A4-sized issue of The Village was printed.

T

hen three things happened: we, as a family, didn’t move to Malvern and instead bought a near-derelict house on Swan Street in Alvechurch; I discovered the concept of B5 magazines and the delivery options this opened up; and the local church in Alvechurch decided that a paddock people expected to be used as a future churchyard should instead be sold to a housebuilder for £1,400,000 to pay for an ambitious new church hall.

The outcry and rancour the last caused in the village has dissipated now, although there are still people who won’t set foot in The Ark as a result. As a journalist at the time, I felt

Above and below: A few of The Village team’s favourite covers from the past 20 years. people had a right to know what was happening and so The Village was back, but also with a much more solid business model.

We were now printing 10,000 copies and delivering them all free, rather than the original 3,000 which we sold in shops and other outlets across the area. Advertisers who wanted to reach our 20,000-plus readers would provide the revenue – and we even had someone selling the advertising space part-time.

That was more than 16 years ago and I can honestly say we have hardly looked back as we office-hopped from Barnt Green to Alvechurch, even though I have consistently predicted that free publishing on the internet would be shutting us down any day.

The Village now is as strong as ever, helped for the past ten years or more by sales and organisational supremo Louise Robinson and, for the past four, by full-time Editor and voice of relative youth (and Christmas) Sally Oldaker, who had been writing and sub-editing for the magazine as a freelance since 2002 . . . yet still took

the job. A round of applause for both of them, right here!

None of it could be possible without our fantastic band of contributors, some regular and some occasional.

Here I am going to get into trouble for missing people out, but there are some who have made the magazine what it is today, particularly Mary Green, Hannah Genders, Brian Watkiss, Phil Thomas and cartoonist Bob Lawton.

On the picture side, I am indebted (in alphabetical order – because I sometimes feel they are quite competitive) to Dennis Brown, Paul Wilde and Keith Woolford. There is nothing they like better than to keep the pictures I take from making the front cover by offering their own fantastic photographs, some of which adorn this page.

And, of course, we owe our existence to the advertisers who choose to use The Village to reach their customers. I have lost count of the number of people who have said down the years that were only able to start their business because they could advertise it in The Village. They are all, of course, wonderful people and highly intelligent for choosing to advertise with us.

Then there are the delivery “kids”, many of whom have passed down rounds over the years through families, from sibling to sibling – and all those other people who have volunteered to deliver the magazine each month, just because they want to help.

Creating our own delivery network back in 2009 was a very smart move as it gave us flexibility and also we

knew where almost every single copy was going. It also created what some say is my main job each month – driving the van, dropping off boxes of magazines and chatting to everyone across our “manor”.

Finally, I thank you, our readers, without whom we would be like a tree falling, unnoticed, in a forest. You bring us into existence each month and I never tire of hearing how you look forward to The Village dropping through your letterbox.

As to the future? Well, I tried to disappear off to Spain a few years ago, which was when Sally became Editor . . . but, annoyingly for her, I’m sure, I’m still here and can’t resist sticking my oar in.

I’m currently exercised by the effrontery of the housebuilding companies and their lobbyists who tell us we should be grateful they want to make fortunes building on the Green Belt fields around our villages. This looks like a battle that could go on for a while longer, but I hope that when I do slide away into senility or off on that nomadic golf trip of a lifetime, there will be some people glad to see the back of me, otherwise I won’t have been doing a very good job, will I? As for The Village? Well, in spite of so-called social media and the ugliness it can create, and other easy online outlets, print is enjoying a renaissance – and I’d like to think this magazine might still be dropping through letterboxes in another 20 years. It certainly shows no signs of going away just yet.

But I wonder who will be writing this retrospective in 2038?

The Village

October 2018

27

10 Years Ago From TheVillage archive

our october 2008 cover celebrated 10 years of The Village.

Inside we explored the changes (or lack of them) that had taken place in the past decade, and repeated one of our favourite articles, on the selfbuilders of Callow Hill Road, Alvechurch, from 1999.

September 2013 – the diggers arrive

IN THE NEWS: Lickey & Blackwell Parish Council was holding a series of Residents’ Meetings to engage the community on issues such as youth, crime, speeding and parking.

Road safety campaigners in Alvechurch hoped to see action on the dangerous bend south of the village, while in Rowney Green, work had begun on the new lottery-funded roof at the Memorial Hall.

a new women’s morris dancing group had been formed in Alvechurch. “Aelfgythe” took their name from the Saxon lady after whom “Alvechurch” is derived, and had already signed up to dance with the village men’s morris side on New Year’s Day. pupils at St Andrew’s First School in Barnt Green enjoyed a nautical week, including “dress as a sailor day” to raise money for the RNLI, and a trip to Burnhamon-Sea.

28

The Village

October 2018

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Village Events

Tradition on display Rain didn’t put off visitors to the annual Tardebigge Show, which featured traditional stalls and games, plus displays of produce and crafts and an auction.

Above right: Helping out on the Redditch & Bromsgrove Fundraising for Guide Dogs stall was Jess Hiles, a gold and silver medallist at the Special Olympics and now a children’s author. Her books, which have the message that it’s OK to be different, were on sale in aid of the guide dog charity plus her carers, MacIntyre, and Safe Places.

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Advertisement feature Village Events

Green show winners Rowney Green Horticultural Society’s annual Main Show attracted a large number of entries, despite the hot summer. David Morgan, Worcestershire County Organiser for the National Garden Scheme, presented the prizes for plants, produce and crafts.

Photography by Keith Woolford Left: Show winners.

Below: Beautiful blooms

Below, from left: Pam Gregg won the most trophies; Pat Davies, RGHS chair, with David Morgan; the youngest and oldest entrants, Nancy Morgan and June Calear, aged two and 92.

The Village

October 2018

37

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Village Sport AFC are involved in plenty of cup action this autumn.

Action from the win at Redditch United (Photo/ Ian Macvie)

A

lvechurch FC progressed to the second qualifying round of the FA Cup, via a seven-goal thriller against Bromsgrove Sporting and an away win at Stratford Town.

In the home match against Bromsgrove, the 728 supporters were treated to four goals in the first 18 minutes. The visitors scored first but ’Church responded instantly through Josh March before Luke Yates gave them the lead. A Bromsgrove penalty made the scores level at half-time, before two spot-kicks from penalty king Tom Turton won the game for AFC – despite a late Bromsgrove goal making for a nervy finish.

The Stratford Town match had far

Goals galore for AFC fewer chances, although Alvechurch had a goal disallowed in the first half.

Despite Stratford going down to 10 men when Cody Fisher was shown a straight red card, ’Church found it difficult to break down a stubborn defence until substitute Aaron Lloyd scored the only goal with his first touch of the game.

As we went to press, AFC were due to play Corby Town in the next round.

Alvechurch then beat Bromsgrove Sporting for the second time in two weeks in the Southern League Challenge Cup. This was a far cagier affair and it took a touch of class from Kieron Cooke to secure a 1–0 victory after the dismissal of Bromsgrove’s Jason Cowley late in the first half.

AFC have been drawn at home to local rivals Highgate United in the first round of the Birmingham Senior Cup October 9 at 7.45. They also play Bilston Town in the JW Hunt Cup. Meanwhile, having begun their league campaign with two draws and a defeat, Alvechurch recorded their first league win of the season by beating Redditch United 3–0. This was followed by another 3–0 victory

over high-flying Needham Market – in the team’s best performance of the season so far, they ran out easy winners to climb into the top half of the table. l Alvechurch have signed prolific scorer Trea Bertie from Racing Club Warwick. The forward scored regularly for Warwick, and prior to signing for them scored 19 goals in 19 matches for Smithswood Firs.

Central defender Luke Paskin has left Alvechurch to join Lye Town, having rejoined Church at the beginning of the season. Goalkeeper Matt Sargeant has also played for Lye Town this season, to gain match fitness before establishing himself as the number one keeper at Lye Meadow.

Experienced centre forward Nathan Waite has joined Southern League Division 1 Central side Coleshill Town. He wasn’t getting the game time he wanted at AFC so decided to move on.

Former Alvechurch forward Yusifu Ceesay has signed professional terms with League 1 side Blackpool. Yusifu played a significant role in last sea-

son’s success, creating and scored many important goals, and thoroughly deserves the opportunity to play at professional level. Yusifu has signed a two-year contract with the option of a third, and all at AFC wish him well. l For more info or sponsorship enquiries, please contact Trevor Ball at saintsarehot2@btinternet.com or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/ alvechurch Follow the club on Twitter @Alvechurch1st

fixtures

All league fixtures unless stated Sat Oct 6 3pm Barwell (A) Tues Oct 9 7.45pm Highgate United (H) Birmingham Senior Cup R1 Sat Oct 13 3pm St Ives Town (H) Tues Oct 16 7.45pm Stratford Town (H) Sat Oct 20 3pm Bedworth Utd (A) Sat Nov 3 3pm Kings Lynn Town (H) Sat Nov 10 3pm Halesowen Town (A) Sat Nov 17 3pm St Neots Town (H) Mon Nov 19 7.45pm Rushall Olympic (A) Sat Nov 24 3pm Leiston (H) The Village

October 2018

39

Village Weather

Autumn has arrived A

Alvechurch amateur weatherman Phil Thomas records the changes.

s we went to press, September was continuing the warming trend for this year. There was a warm start with temperatures into the 20s, but things cooled down later. It stayed mostly dry, with a few wet damp days towards the middle of the month. There was a marked change in the weather from the 17th onwards, with two named storms with very strong winds up to 43mph locally. Rainfall over this period was more than 35mm. Autumn is here!

September 2018 (to the 23rd) Mean Max 18.9C 0.7 above average Mean Min 10.3C 0.7 above average Mean 14.6C 0.7 above average Rainfall 50mm 82% of average Sunshine 64.8 hrs 52% of average August continued the warm weather from July, with a maximum temperature of 28.2C on the 7th. The weather then changed to a “more normal UK summer� with wind, rain and much cooler temperatures. Because of the very hot first week, the mean temperature of 17C was still 0.8C above the local mean.

August 2018 Mean Max 21.9C 0.6 above average Mean Min 12C 0.4 above average Mean 17C 0.8 above average Rainfall 51.4mm 98% of average Sunshine 138.3 hrs 92% of average.

Summer 2018 (June, July, August) Mean Max 23.2C 2.6 above average Mean Min 12.2C 1.0 above average Mean 17.7C 1.8 above average Rainfall 81.6mm 47% of average Sunshine 625.6 hrs 141% of average Outlook The Met Office computer models

suggest that periods of dry and fine weather are likely at times, especially in the south of our area. Occasional spells of more unsettled weather are likely, with a risk of wind and rain at

times. Overall daytime temperatures are likely to be average or slightly above, but the lengthening nights may lead to low overnight temperatures, with patchy frost locally.

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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Are you due a refund on power of attorney?

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t is not often that the government offers a refund because of overcharging, but last month it emerged that the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) had been levying excessive fees for four years.

The fees related to the cost of registration of a power of attorney, whether it was an enduring power of attorney or either of its lasting power of attorney successors – dealing with health and welfare or property and financial matters.

The OPG was meant to cover its costs with attorney registration charges, but instead ended up with an £89 million surplus. As such, this sum is being returned to those who registered a power in England or Wales between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2017. The maximum refund is £54, and most claims can be made via an online form at www.gov.uk/ power-of-attorney-refund If the person who granted the power of attorney has died, then that individual’s executor must make a claim by email. Figures obtained via a Freedom of Information request show that up to 1.8 million people may be due a refund.

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Powers of attorney are frequently dealt with alongside wills as part of estate planning – in some respects they can be regarded as a form of liv-

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The Village

October 2018

43

S

Mary Green continues her series on trees in the Celtic calendar.

eptember at last brought cooler weather, but we’ve certainly had a summer this year! I hope we continue with a traditional mellow autumn. Maybe we will have a warm spell in October, called St Luke’s little summer – his day is October 18. And at the end of the month we will be into the start of winter by the old calendars, following All Saints’ Day. I’m often pleased by how well the Celtic trees fit in with what I would be writing about this month anyway.

This month is a good example: the tree is blackthorn and the “secondary tree” associated with this time of year is ivy.

as black as an

Blackthorn or sloe is a small tree but a really important part of our countryside and traditions. It is one of the plum family, with black twigs and fruit, and white blossom. In winter it looks very dark and its spiky thorns make it an impenetrable bar-

Warwickshire Drooper plums Winter holly

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October 2018

rier. It was always much planted for hedging as well as growing wild.

Blackthorn is not the first white blossom we see in the hedges in spring; that is the very early cherryplum. But blackthorn is the first one that really covers the hedges in

blossom and creates pathways for the bees and other spring insects. It flowers in March or April, about the same time as cultivated damson and plum trees, with small very bright white flowers in thick clusters. So long as there are not too many late frosts, the fruits follow, ripening much more slowly than cultivated plums. They are ripe about now, in October.

Perhaps the word “ripe” is misleading with sloes. They stay very bitter and are almost impossible to eat raw. But they have always been used cooked, especially to flavour other sweeter fruit like apples. Some people say they are better after a frost, and you can often pick them into November.

One of their main uses nowadays is in sloe gin and other liqueurs. This takes about two months to steep, so is always magically ready for Christ-

Village Country Diary Large sloes

Blackthorn blossom and ivy

ny sloe

mas. Two hundred years ago sloes were used steeped in water with a little cheap brandy to produce an imitation port wine.

One of the interesting things about the plum family is that they can interbreed. As well as the blackthorn and cherry plum, we also have a wild native plum called bullace.

This is a dark fruit, about the size of a damson but rounder. It can be quite sour but is definitely more edible than a sloe, and makes gorgeous jams and puddings. I know of three within walking distance of here.

There are also of course orchard damsons and plums growing wild in the hedges. All these can interbreed with sloes. Because of this you may find blackthorn bushes with fewer thorns, larger flowers and juicier, slightly less bitter fruit. There are some around here, but people tend to keep their locations to themselves!

Blackthorn wood is very hard and resilient and was much used for walking sticks, using the natural knottiness of the wood to make continues overleaf

Damson and plum blossom

October ivy

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October 2018

45

Village Country Diary

Spring blackthorn continued from previous page them ornamental. It was the wood traditionally used for Irish shillelaghs. The thorns are very sharp and can puncture tyres, so hedge trimmers need to clear up carefully after themselves.

Blackthorn doesn’t seem to attract so much mythology as its relative the whitethorn or hawthorn. It appears a lot in medieval poetry and folksong, though, as a description of female beauty. Girls have skin as white as blackthorn blossom and eyes as black as sloes – including a

Red admiral on ivy

Sloe gin

46

famous one in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. It also appears in weather folklore. The period when it flowers can often be a cold one, and if there is a cold snap in March or April it has been for hundreds of years referred to as a “blackthorn winter” – the counterpart of St Luke’s summer.

Black, white and red are colours found in many mythologies and religions. Blackthorn only has two of them, so it has the emblems of old age and death (black), and of youth and purity (white), but not the red symbols of maturity and passion.

The Village

October 2018

It is linked to the Celtic spirit in her guise as Brigid, the bride or young woman of spring and of the Imbolc festival, and with her older embodiment as the crone who presides over the period of Samhain, the autumn festival which brings us close to the dead.

Samhain, of course, lives on in Christian times as Halloween/ All Saints’ Day at the end of October.

Festivals of death, when autumn transitioned into winter, were not seen as sad affairs but as a way to connect with the people who had

Wild bullace flowers by canal

died but who were still present around us. So, blackthorn was seen mostly as a hopeful tree linking death and birth.

Many folk songs and stories include mention of a “prickly bush” usually as a symbol of difficulty and hardship, and this was probably visualised as a blackthorn, forming its dark thickets. For most of us, it’s one of the beautiful signs of full spring when it whitens our road hedges and canalsides.

The secondary tree for this time is ivy, which also has black berries. It is a special plant at this time because it is in flower when all other flowers have gone. It will be covered with late bees, butterflies and other insects especially if we are having a St Luke’s little summer.

It is a symbol of tenacity and staying power because of the way it clings on to stronger trees and survives extremes of weather. It was often seen as a particularly female plant, unlike the masculine holly.

The way it embraces trees, together with its evergreen nature, made it often used as an image for love.

It is our only native evergreen climber.

Ivy has a long association with alcoholic drink and was once believed to be able to cancel out the more harmful effects of alcohol. Drinking vessels were made of ivy wood. The ivy bush thus became a symbol for a tavern.

Ivy was also seen as having various curative and protective properties for animals, especially cattle, and its presence ensured wholesome milk. It was used as a charm to take away warts and verrucas.

Sometimes it was banned in churches because of its magical and alcoholic associations!

There is disagreement about whether ivy damages continues overleaf

Plum blossom Ivy and holly

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October 2018

47

Village Country Diary continued from previous page

the trees it grows up. It is not parasitic so doesn’t compete with the tree, and often lives in harmony with it. It doesn’t have to climb, and can grow along the ground, but finds trees handy as a scaffolding.

However, ivy is very vigorous, and its sheer weight may damage a weakened tree. It covers deciduous trees with leaves in the winter, making them more susceptible to storm damage. But it doesn’t directly damage the tree itself.

Ivy has often been used as decoration, made into wreaths (the young Queen Victoria wore a jewelled ivy wreath in her hair) or used because of the beauty of its leaf patterns. It was the most used plant for the Christmas wreath, often entwined with its partner the holly, and appears in carvings and ornamental metalwork, as well as being loved by flower-arrangers.

It is beautiful all year round. Its flowers are vital for insects in autumn and its berries for birds in winter.

A real magic plant!

Here’s another magic plant: my poem linked to the Alvechurch Pumpkin Festival this October.

Pumpkin – maybe

Oakleaf pumpkin

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October 2018

Pumpkin – maybe

The pumpkin I bought my Whitsun pumpkin in the Park, A poor wee thing, two leaves on a few roots, Took it home under the thunder and found a tub Crammed it with last year’s crumbly flesh-warm compost Planted it under my window in the sun.

The sun shone and shone, the plant grew I watched its little tendrils corkscrew out Clutching the rose and climbing up the wall.

Flower after flower opened, fêting every day And dying every day, but bright with hope.

Bees and flies buzzed around it. But no fruit.

Just sun after sun smiling and cheering loudly.

Then one day, rain, and then a little swelling.

I watched it grow to golf ball size and fall off.

No fruit then. But my fruitless plant Still sent huge fireworks of stars each day As big as plates, now clutching the tomato plants.

People passing by stopped and stared Dog walkers, children, neighbours, house-buyers Some asked me what it was, this giant tomato-flower, Other just smiled as brightness entered them.

Late summer, and another swelling comes A cuckoo growing on the tomato plant Making me rewrite this poem as it grows.

Not much chance, I think, in these cold nights Yet still it grows, despite a weakened stalk, Drinking the strength of a warm September But shaping longer than it is around – Is my pumpkin a marrow all the time?

Who cares. Welcome whatever it is.

Bright and beautiful as summer dawns It lifts my heart up higher than the house Flowering to feed the heart and soul True to itself, fading and renewing. Like poetry Like life, having to be rewritten, every day.

Village Stargazing Dust storm on Mars (Image courtesy of NASA)

Snaps from space

O

ctober, and our summer-long parade of the planets is over.

Venus has disappeared round the Sun and Jupiter is only just visible in the glow of the sunset. Look for it as soon as the Sun has gone and don’t hang about; it too will set at around eight. A thin crescent Moon is just above it on the 11th.

NASA launched a probe to this giant planet seven years ago, called Juno, and it has been sending amazing pictures back since it arrived there in June.

We still have Saturn in the south, in the same position that Jupiter was a month or so ago but, being further away, not as bright. It is, however, a little higher because the Earth is now starting to tip its head away from the Sun, lifting the night sky as it does so.

Look out for Saturn as soon as the sky is properly dark, it’s alone in this part of the sky, there being no bright stars nearby. The Moon visits it on the 14th. Saturn had its own probe until a year ago, Cassini, and it also sent wonderful pictures back, especially of the extraordinary ring system for which this planet is famous, and the effect the various moons had on them.

tacular with the Moon close by on the 18th.

Mars has had numerous probes sent to it over the years and its surface is littered with landers. It still has about six active orbiting craft, but down on the surface there is some Saturn has many moons but probbad news. Opportunity, a rover which ably the most famous of them is has been trundling about the surface Titan. A probe was landed here in for more than 14 years, doesn’t seem 2004, Huygens, which hitched a lift to have survived the recent dust on the side of Cassini. It revealed a storm which engulfed the planet in strange world of rocks made from suJune. NASA has been sending it a per frozen water and oceans of liquid simple instruction to just beep if it methane. can hear but there has been no reply.

Now we come to Mars. It has been Doesn’t that seem so sad? dominating the skies in the late So, when you’re gazing up at Red evenings but is now very obvious Planet, think of that little rover sitting much earlier. Left of Saturn and at a there, covered in dust and unable to similar height, its orange colour can speak. It has sent back lots of science, be clearly seen and it will look specthough, and excellent pictures, as, indeed, its younger and Little lost rover (Image courtesy larger cousin Curiosity continof NASA) ues to do.

While you’re admiring bits of our Solar System, keep an eye out for meteors as there are two minor showers this month, due to peak on the 10th and 21st.

There are a couple of launches to the ISS due too, so keep another eye on www.heavensabove.com to see if they are visible above Alvechurch.

Amateur astronomer Brian Watkiss peers into the Village night sky.

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49

Village Gardens

Imaginative screening using enamelled containers

Rusted metal planters

perfect planters

A

s we head towards the end of Judy Lawrance, the growing season and just flower before it’s time to plant next season’s bulbs, we have a breather to photographer, take stock, to sit and enjoy the last shares ideas for of the roses and plan the garden for next year. the next growing season.

If you live in parts of Bordesley and replace the whole of the soil with Alvechurch, you probably have to topsoil – a mammoth task – but if work with heavy clay soil – two days you don’t quite have the energy or of sunshine and it’s like digging concrete; a few days of rain and the earth inclination to do that, then another obvious way to add colour to the gar“glugs” when you try to dig a hole. den is to use planters: any size, shape, Clay is OK to grow shrubs and trees, colour or style. The more unconvenfor making pots and for the kids to tional, the more interesting! use as Play Doh! That’s not Penny Disbury, feato say it isn’t fertile for tured in the August roses and a few other issue of The Village, plants, but to try is the “queen” of and create an herplanters. A prolific baceous border gardener, Penny or to grow bedgrows all her ding plants isn’t bedding plants much fun. in containers.

If you don’t Calibrachia growmind rolling up ing in teacups your sleeves and made from old getting down to a Bee on car tyres; geraniums bit of hard digging, flower planted in a discarded then one solution is to

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porcelain washbasin, including taps; petunias smothering an old iron bedstead, and trailing this and that from hanging watering cans and wall planters contained in picture frames. If it’s big enough to hold soil and easy enough to drill drainage holes, then Penny will use it! So really anything goes if you’re brave enough to try.

Salvage yards and junk shops are great places to pick up chimney pots, old tin baths, dolly tubs and stone troughs, all at reasonable cost.

Place them in a border, among dull coloured shrubs, a dark corner where there’s not much sun, or on a patio to add interest and a talking point.

The latest trend, rusted metal rings, can be purchased from some garden centres. They are simply lengths of mild steel, bent into tube shapes and welded together. They don’t have a bottom as they just sit on top of the soil. The bought kind are already rusted, but if you are able to get someone to make them for you, you can choose the diameter and height to suit your garden.

A good winter will see them

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change from a dull grey smooth metal to a beautiful subtle, textured, rusty orange colour. For a minimalist look, try placing them in a bare border or on a flattened piece of ground then filling the gaps with shingle or tree bark.

Layering bulbs when filling them will give a colourful show in the spring and planting on top with bee-friendly long-lasting perennials will give months of continuous colour throughout the year.

For the less adventurous, terracotta and enamelled pots are always a good choice (the frost-proof kind). Small pots can be arranged along a border or grouped together in a larger container. Even broken pots can be used imaginatively.

The large wooden structure (top left), exhibited at the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show, is an imaginative way to display enamelled pots. The pots could all be the

continues overleaf The Village

October 2018

51

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Village Gardens continued from previous page same style or a mixture of different sizes and shapes. Easily adaptable to smaller gardens for use as a screen or simply stood up against a plain wall or fence. A good autumn project!

Long, thin gardens can sometimes create wasted space at the bottom end. Two generations ago, this would have been a valuable area to grow the family’s vegetables and cutting flowers. But sadly, without the necessity to grow vegetables nowadays, “the bit at the bottom” is sometimes neglected, left to grow wild, fenced off or used to house a shed. Not the place to be growing decorative vegetables or delicate delphiniums – or is

Planters, one year on

it? In an area such as this, if you want to take on a bigger project, then railway sleepers could be the answer.

We had one such area at the bottom of our garden – solid clay, uneven, full of roots and generally an eyesore. So my husband Mike and I came up with a plan to reclaim it.

Armed with a few railway sleepers, a drill and some long bolts, Mike set about making some raised planters.

The sleepers were simply laid on the ground and bolted together through their ends, then between us we levelled them off, propping them up at one end with broken bricks and then digging the earth away at the other.

We didn’t need to worry about the

poor soil or the roots just below the surface, or the ground between them being uneven. The roots would be covered with weed suppressant and the gaps between the planters would be filled with gravel, taking care of any dips. Once built, we squared them up, lined them and then filled with a mixture of topsoil purchased from a garden centre; a few bags of well-rotted manure; a small amount of finely chopped clay and finally soil from an old vegetable plot belonging to a friend. Once finished, I looked upon them proudly – all that beautiful loamy soil!

There are so many growing choices for large planters such as these. They don’t have to be too high – a shallow planter painted black looks neat. Fill it with ornamental vegetables and you have a very contemporary look for a modern garden. A two-sleeper high planter would work well as a cutting garden: every square inch could be used and the flowers deadheaded, tied up and cut without bending down too far. A rose garden would be the choice for some with blooms at eye level and easy pruning. A nursery bed would do well, especially if you like rescuing “poorly” plants from garden centres or you like to grow from plugs. Maybe a wild flower patch to fill the space easily and quickly

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Dion’s Gardening Alvechurch All Aspects of Garden Maintenance Commercial & Domestic Grass & Hedge Cutting Drives & Patios F Tree Surgery & Removal Arrangement of succulents in terracotta pots – a box of seeds, sown in spring, will give colour right through to the end of summer. This would be an ideal introduction to gardening for small children as everything grows so fast. Not forgetting the bees, the ladybirds and butterflies they’ll attract.

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October 2018

53

Village Art

WORDS TO ARTISTRY Bromsgrove artist Richard McIlwraith is thrilled by the talent of local embroiderers.

Y

ou simply must visit Artrix in October and see the staggering textile artistry on the art centre’s white walls in this touring exhibition by the Embroiderers’ Guild. Each of the 120+ pieces take a book as inspiration. The display is named “Page 17” and may just leave you speechless. Viewing the combination of painstaking work and rich imagination is an intense experience, heightened by the knowledge that the creators range from experts to gifted novices.

Curators Amanda Smith and Alex Messenger created this overwhelming display to raise the profile of textile and stitched art. Traditional hand stitching and contemporary

machine work intertwine and dance as you move through the exhibition. Amanda and Alex asked me to stress that this is the final opportunity to experience the exhibition; following a remarkable year, the tour of the UK comes sadly to an end.

Words to artistry and back to words: A review in prose seems inadequate. Having spent the best half-hour of my week soaking in this exhibition, something deeper, more elemental, more creative is the only

response that feels appropriate. Here goes…

Jane Austen’s Persuasion, Domesday Book of 1086, Watership Down by Richard Adams, Prehistoric rock art, Sketchbooks, poetry, British flora – Scores and scores of stimulating books – Explosions of imagination.

Enigmatic art in thread and cloth.

Canvas, collage, cotton, Wrapped, padded, pleated, Free machine, needlelace, Layered linen, stitched satin, Background gold, old felt, Fleece, beads, bleached chiffon, Ribbon, buttons, tea-dyed scrim, Tissue shrunk, muslin, leather, Thread and cloth, embellished, embossed.

Textured gesso, gauze, Remnants, velvet, wax and silk, Wire and foil, fabric stain.

Pause. Step back. Admire.

Above: Lapwing & Chick by Elaine Dunn. Top: Pieces by Anne Carrick and Anne Brooke. Below: More examples of the group’s work.

A library of toil; white walls filled.

Full, unchained applause.

Visit www.embroiderersguild.com to find out more about the Guild and your nearest branch. The Artrix exhibition runs until Sunday November 4 at the following times: weekdays 9am to 2pm; Saturdays 10am to 2pm; and on performance evenings. Don’t forget there is a café too! Artrix is located on Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1GN. 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 CONTinental COLLection of Barnt Green presents a Fashion Show on Weds Oct 24 at the Chateau Impney in Droitwich from 6.30pm. Tickets £20 to include cheese and wine, with proceeds to Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer. The models are all women who have undergone treatment for breast cancer. Tickets available from Continental Collection.

A COMMUNITY Litter Pick organised by Alvechurch Village Society takes place on Sun Oct 14, 10.30am–12.30pm. Meet outside The Lounge (where refreshments are available 10.30am–1pm). All equipment provided, please wear suitable clothing.

All children taking part receive a certificate. For more info contact Sheila Parsons on 07846 615955 or just turn up on the day if you can help! a christmas Fair takes place at Alvechurch Cricket Club on Sat Nov 17, in aid of Brain Tumour Research, MND Association and The Lounge. The event runs from 10.30am–3pm and features refreshments and stalls including knitted items made by the Alvechurch Knit & Natter group. Entry is free. In support of the same charities, Cynthia Lawton of Knit & Natter has organised a village raffle, with fabulous prizes. Tickets will be on sale at The Lounge from Oct 1, and the draw takes place on Dec 17.

A FILM NIGHT takes place at Rowney Green Village Hall on Sat Oct 13. As well as a screening of The Blues Brothers, there will be a bar, batches, ice cream and popcorn. Bar open 6.30pm, film starts 7.30pm. Tickets £5 from Sue D on 07715 951012 or Sue W on 07977 254519, in support of Peck Wood.

A Ladies’ Fashion Show and Pop-Up Shop takes place at Alvechurch Village Hall on Fri Oct 5, in support of Brain Tumour Research. You’ll be able to shop your favourite high street brands at 50% off or more, and there will also be a charity raffle with fabulous prizes to be won.

Doors open at 7pm, show starts 7.30pm.

Tickets £6.50 (in advance) to include a glass of prosecco or orange juice. For tickets and more info, contact Mary on 07795 150721 or Linda on 07516 469773.

Barnt Green’s Nearly New Sale is on Sat Nov 10, 10.30am–12noon at Barnt Green Baptist Church on Bittell Road.

Entry £1, fundraising for the Pre-school.

what’s on guide High-quality children’s and babies’ clothing, toys and books, prams and nursery furniture. Sellers please PREREGISTER by emailing BGnnsale@gmail.com a Super Shoe Box Saturday takes place at St Andrew’s Church Barnt Green on Sat Oct 6 from 10am–3pm, packing shoe boxes of gifts for children in Zambia. All welcome. Tea, coffee and cake available.

Anyone is welcome to come and help.

Gifts are collected throughout the year but more are always welcome.

Bromsgrove Bridge Club holds a Café Bridge event in Barnt Green in aid of the Primrose Hospice on Thurs Oct 4. Bridge will be played in three different venues in the village. Entry fee £30 to include welcome tea/coffee, lunch, glass of Prosecco and prizes. Info from Gillian Ford on 01527 873723.

Alpha course at Barnt Green Baptist Church – explore life, faith and meaning.

Weds evenings at 7.30pm, starting Sep 26. Register at outreach@bgb.org.uk or see www.bgb.org.uk MESSY CHURCH For All! Something a little different for all the family. This event is held on the third Sunday most months at Catshill Methodist Church from 3.45pm, to include games, singing, crafts and a story on a Bible-based theme, and simple meal around 5.30pm. Free entry and a warm welcome for all. More info from James Knott on 07968 110 631.

‘Quiet Space’ at Alvechurch Baptist Church takes place each Mon and Fri from 10am–12 noon. The church is open as a quiet space, with “welcomers” on hand to help if required, for anyone who would like to come and find peace and rest for as long as they need. For more info, call Revd Fiona Lee on 0121 447 7369, email revfiona@alvechurchbaptist.org.uk or visit www.alvechurchbaptist.org.uk

MUSIC

BROMSGROVE CONCERTs presents the Atea Wind Quintet on Fri Nov 9 at Artrix in Bromsgrove, starting at 8pm.

Comprising flute, clarinet, bassoon, horn and oboe, the foremost British wind quintet of their generation will play music including excerpts from Bach’s Goldberg Variations, Mower’s Jazz Suite

(2010) and Nielsen’s Wind Quintet. Full information can be found at www. bromsgrove-concerts.org.uk and on Twitter and Facebook. Tickets in advance from Artrix on 01527 577 330 or www. artrix.co.uk or on the door.

Exploring Shostakovich, presented

by Festive Classics, is a weekend of music and talks at Artrix in Bromsgrove, celebrating the composer’s life and work.

Between Fri Oct 26 to Sun Oct 28, the Dante Quartet will play all fifteen quartets, with each performance introduced

by BBC music broadcaster Stephen Johnson. There are also talks from a friend of the composer and experts in Russian music, plus a masterclass with cellist Robin Ireland. For the full programme, see www.festiveclassics.co.uk Saver Tickets for the whole weekend can be bought from 2 College Walk, Bromsgrove B60 2ND or on 01527 874136, or buy single tickets from Artrix via 01527 577330, boxoffice@artrix.co.uk or www.artrix.co.uk Sauce City Jazz Band return to the Ark in Alvechurch for another evening of toe-tapping jazz classics on Fri Oct 19.

Bar opens at 7pm, concert starts 7.30pm.

Entry £10, tickets on the door. All proceeds to the Church Restoration Fund.

Enquiries to Margaret on 0121 445 1854.

Barnt Green Choral Society is now rehearsing for the 2018-19 season. It’s a non-audition choral society; new members always welcome. This season they will perform three concerts; a Christmas Carol concert on Dec 15, the main Spring concert on March 23 (Chilcott’s Jubilate, Rutter’s Gloria, Stanford’s Te Deum and Macmillan’s Ecce Sacerdos Magnus) and a Summer concert on June 15 with the music of Gilbert and Sullivan. If you are interested in joining, pop along to rehearsals at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green on Mondays at 7.45pm. More details from Fiona Brown on 0121 445 5513 or www.barntgreenchoralsociety.org Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra will perform its Autumn concert of Big Band Jazz on Fri Oct 5 at 8pm, at Lickey End Social Club, Alvechurch Road, Bromsgrove B60 1JT. Varied music from the great swing bands of Count Basie, Duke

continues overleaf The Village

October 2018

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Village What’s On

continued from previous page

Ellington, Glenn Miller up to more contemporary arrangements from Tom Kubis or Gordon Goodwin. Vocals by resident crooner, Garry Rutter. £6 on the door. For more details ring Geoff 07970 662692.

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.

Alvechurch Community Choir meets at 7.30pm on Mondays in Alvechurch Village Hall, though on the 2nd Monday each month they move to a different venue, usually Alvechurch Social Club. They will meet every Monday in October. The choir is an open access singing group; new members of all abilities are welcome.

It is part of a charity called Everybody Let’s Sing and is committed to bringing music to a wide community, including a regular choir it runs at The Lawns care home. The choir sings gospel, folk and popular songs from all ages and loves to perform for local occasions. They are preparing for a big Concert for Peace at Alvechurch School on Nov 9 as part of the Armistice commemorations: look out for details. 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.

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 Blackwell Concert Band is always on the lookout for new players (all abilities and instruments welcome). For further details, email blackwellconcertband98@ gmail.com, or alternatively, visit www. blackwellconcert band.co.uk to learn more about the band and find details on upcoming events. You will also find info on how to book the band.

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

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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 contact Robert Barnett on 01527 542491.

all share before 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

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

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. If you are interested, please contact Ruth Henley for details on 01527 527022 or email r.g.henley@btinternet.com

The Arrow Vale Singers meet on Wednesdays from 8–10pm at Batchley Community Centre, Redditch B97 6PB, including a refreshment break. More info on 07718 113086, www.arrowvalesingers. co.uk or arrowvalesingers@gmail.com alvechurch acoustic ROOTS is back on Fri Sep 28, with a plethora of musicians at Alvechurch Social Club from 8pm. Still only £4 entry.

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.

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).

BROMSGROVE FOLK Club meets on the second and last Thurs every month at Catshill Club, starting at 8pm. For a full list of events call Bob Bignell on 0121 476 5938 or see www.bromsgrovefolkclub.co.uk BROMSGROVE ROCK Choir offers everyone the chance to sing pop, rock and chart songs – no audition. Free taster sessions available. More info at www. rockchoir.com or on 01252 714276.

Cantare Daytime Choir meets on Fridays 9.15–10.15am at Alvechurch Cricket Club – everyone welcome. Do you enjoy singing with other people? Don’t worry if you think you can’t sing, or don’t read music, everyone is welcome. You can even bring your kids/babies if they let you sing. Whether you want to perform in concerts or simply sing for fun, for the therapeutic or health benefits gained from group singing (or the cuppa we

Bel Canto Singers... do you enjoy singing bright and lively pieces? Join in with a friendly group of mixed age singers. The music is a good variety (pop, retro, musical and popular classical), and the group’s aim is to produce a quality sound whilst supporting charity and community fund raising. The singers meet on Monday evenings at Crabbs Cross Methodist Church, Crabbs Cross Lane, Redditch B97 5LD. The marvellous men would love more tenors and bass voices! If you enjoy singing, or would like to try something new, the group would love to hear from you. More info at www.belcantosingers.co.uk or from Polly Speers on 01564 822672.

Alvechurch Samba Band, Banda Sem Nome, is looking for new recruits! This local community side meets on the 1st and 3rd Thurs each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club at 8pm. Go along if you fancy having a go at something a little bit different and discovering your hidden talents! No previous experience required, all welcome (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult). More info from Andrea on 07867 858099.

DANCING Graham & Denise Darby present a Saturday Night Social Dance on Sat Oct 6 at Lickey End Social Club, Bromsgrove, in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance and Prostate Cancer. Ballroom, Latin & Social Sequence Dancing to live music by Graham Darby. Doors open 7.30pm; dancing from 8–11pm. £5 per person on the door. For details call 01543 502722 or visit www. grahamdarbysmusic.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

continues overleaf

Concert for Peace

A

s part of Alvechurch’s commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armistice, there will be a concert at 7.30pm on Friday November 9 at Alvechurch Middle School.

The concert is organised by Alvechurch Community Choir and will also include Cantare Choir, Crown Meadow Peace Choir, the Acoustic Belles and the Withybed Poets. It is supported by Alvechurch Village Society, Crown Meadow First School and Alvechurch Parish Council.

The concert will be free, with refreshments also fee of charge. However, it is advisable to get a ticket to ensure you can get a seat! Tickets will be available in October from The Lounge or on 0121 445 5957.

Everyone is welcome and the concert aims to be inclusive for the whole community, giving an opportunity to reflect on war and peace as well as enjoying varied music.

This is part of an enhanced commemoration that weekend which includes a service on the Green (Bear Hill) on Sunday morning, where the Community Choir will also sing, and church services.

Saturday 3 November, 7.30pm

Tchaikovsky Serenade Nic Fallowfield, conductor

Saturday 1 December, 7.30pm

Concert by Candlelight Nic Fallowfield, conductor

Saturday 16 February, 7.30pm

My Funny Valentine with the popular Fret and Fiddle Jazz Quintet

Chamber Classics

OPERA NOVELLA, based in Cofton Hackett, presents Mozart’s School for Lovers, better known as Cosi Fan Tutte, at the MAC Birmingham on October 12, 13 and 14 at 7pm with a matinee performance on Saturday at 2pm. The opera will be sung and spoken in English with dialogue replacing the usual recitative, and is accompanied by a small orchestra selected by the MD, Tony Ayres.

The company was formed three years ago by the director, Janet Phillips, with the aim of presenting opera in English in modern settings with contemporary, witty dialogue so that the audience could understand the often complex plots and identify with the characters.

Janet herself performed many principal roles for a number of opera companies in Birmingham including the Birmingham Conservatoire. Tony Ayres has conducted many opera companies and orchestras in the West Midlands over many years.

School for Lovers will be performed by singers of outstanding quality, most of whom have trained at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Opera Novella hopes that all who attend the performances will find them enjoyable and memorable.

Further details can be obtained from the MAC box office or on 0121 446 3232 or www.macbirmingham. co.uk October 2018

St Laurence Church, Alvechurch B48 7SB

Saturday 6 April, 7.30pm

Opera for everyone

The Village

2018/19 Season

57

Tedesca Quartet with Tom Caldicote, clarinet

Saturday 18 May, 7.30pm

The Choice is Yours with the Astaria String Quartet

Saturday 6 July, 7.30pm

Bach to the Future

Nic Fallowfield, conductor A selection covering three centuries of music

Tickets: In advance (£1 reduction) from Gin & Pickles, The Square, Alvechurch or online at www.midlandsinfonia.co.uk (Free for FT students/accompanied children) More information on 0121 447 7040 or midlandsinfonia@gmail.com

continued from previous page Baptist Church Hall. Everyone welcome.

Come and play traditional folk music, or try morris dancing. For more details call Pam on 07961 830 831.

Tea Dances run by Bromsgrove District Council now take place in the new council building at Parkside Hall (Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove, B61 8DA) on the last Tues of the month, 2–4pm, dancing to Brian’s super sounds! £4 entry includes tea/coffee and biscuits. For further info contact Jan on 01527 881478.

No longer able to dance? Try Wheelchair Dancing instead! Wheels and Toes meets in Harborne each Thurs, 6.15-8pm. Wide variety of dances. More info: Barbara on 0121 458 3686 or marshall8558@hotmail.com Sequence ballroom and Latin dancing every Monday evening at 8pm at the Longbridge Social Club, 1012 Bristol Road South, Northfield. Occasional free tuition.

All welcome to a friendly fun-filled dance.

More details from Kalvin on 07725 265024.

DANCE SESSIONS take place every Tuesday from 11am–12noon at the Where Next Hub (Unit 2a, Millsborough House, Ipsley Street, Redditch B98 7AL). Designed for people with special needs, but all are welcome – join Nikki and the team and learn some new moves! £7 per session.

Book now on 01527 69330 or nickylevy5@ btconnect.com. All proceeds to the Where Next Association.

Alvechurch Morris Men are on the look out for new dancers and musicians.

They practise on Mondays at Alvechurch Baptist Church Hall, 8.30–10pm, followed by a “debrief” at a local hostelry. They dance in local towns and at various local and national events, and perform a worldfamous (sort of ) mummers play in the village every New Year’s Day. No ability, fitness or co-ordination required – if you are male, 18+ and prepared to spend more time than is probably good for you in public houses, pop along to meet the group!

Drop in to any practice or contact Chris on 07984 570763 or email chris.alvechurchbagman@gmail.com THE PHOENIX Dance Club has now moved to the new Bromsgrove Council building at Parkside Hall, Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove B61 8DA. The club holds Ballroom and Sequence Dancing to live music twice a month on Sat nights. No membership required. No bar facilities – please

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bring your own refreshments. The Tuesday dances have been discontinued – sorry!

More info from Mick or Thelma on 01527 872634.

THE CIRCASSIAN Circle Barndancing Club runs on the first Saturday each month at Rowney Green Village Hall. £5 per person to include sandwich, tea and cake! More info on 01527 545002.

BJ’s Busy Boots Line Dancing Classes: Tues 2–3pm Bromsgrove Leisure Centre; 7–10pm Stoke Prior Sports/Country Club.

Thurs 12–2.15pm Bromsgrove Methodist Church Centre. Social Dance 1st Sat in month at All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane. It’s a fun way to exercise. For more details phone Brenda on 01517 870151.

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

Rubery Drama Group usually meets every Wednesday at the Beacon Church Centre, Whetty Lane, Rubery, 7.30 for 7.45pm.

CLUBS, GROUPS & SOCIETIES The Bromsgrove Society’s next talk is on Tues Oct 16 at The Methodist Centre, Bromsgrove, at 7.45pm and is entitled Stourbridge Glass Making. The talk will be given by Dr Kate Round who will explain the history of glass making in the locality of Stourbridge. More info at www.bsoc. co.uk mercian Military History Society meets monthly in St Luke’s Church Hall (Evesham Road, Redditch, B97 4JX), 7 for 7.30pm.

The next meeting is on Weds Oct 17, when Richard Porteous presents The Royal Navy – From Sail to Steam & Wood to Iron: the story of technical and scientific improvements and the people who made them happen. More info from Ron on 01527 545450 or ronnieg33b@hotmail.co.uk Bromsgrove U3A. Retired/semi-retired?

Meetings with guest speakers 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 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 Catshill Carers Group is a group set up specifically to offer one afternoon a month of respite, socialising and occasional speakers to carers in the area. It meets on the last Tues each month in the coffee bar area of Catshill Methodist Church Centre in Golden Cross Lane from 2.30pm for about 1.5 hrs. All carers welcome, as well as those who used to care for someone who may have passed away or is now in a care facility. Tea and biscuits or cake provided – no charge. Contact Sheila (0121 445 2813) or Di (0121 445 3595) for details and encouragement.

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

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

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.

The North Worcestershire Association of the National Trust Supporters’ Group (covering members resident in Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Redditch), meets at 7.30pm on the 3rd Thursday each month in Tardebigge Community Hall, behind St Bartholomew’s Church. Selection of interesting talks, plus coach outings, rambles, an annual holiday and fundraising activities, with emphasis on FUN! New members always welcome; annual subscription £7.50.

More details from membership secretary Betty Millward on 01527 523805 or email bettymilllward36@hotmail.co.uk Redditch Rotary Club meets Monday lunchtimes at the Abbey Hotel, Hither Green Lane, Redditch, B98 9BE. You would

Village What’s On 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, wideranging subjects and from highly-skilled photographers to novices. The club meets on Tuesday nights, 8–10pm at the Avoncroft Arts Centre. New members and visitors welcome. For more information, please visit www.bromsgroveps.co.uk Contact the Elderly aims to help isolated elderly people in the village area by offering monthly tea parties where they can reconnect or make new friends in their own community. If you know of an elderly person who could benefit, please get in touch on 07539 276054. Guests need to be aged over 75 and living alone, and must be mobile enough to walk to a driver’s car with assistance. You can find general information at www.contact-the-elderly. org.uk and details of the local group by searching for ‘Contact the Elderly Redditch’ on Facebook.

ROTARY CLUB OF BROMSGROVE meets 2nd and 4th Tuesday every month at 7pm for 7.30pm at Rosado’s Restaurant, 2 Finstall Road, Bromsgrove, B60 2DZ. New members welcome. For more information visit www.bromsgroverotary.org.uk or contact Ron Pearce on 07703 567982.

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

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

Tale of warring neighbours Rubery Drama Group performs the Alan Ayckbourn play Neighbourhood Watch at the Beacon Church Centre, Whetty Lane, Rubery on Thurs Oct 25, Fri Oct 26 and Sat Oct 27, at 7.30pm.

The play concerns brother and sister Martin and Hilda Massie who live together, leading a quiet Christian existence in the confines of the Bluebell Hill Development. Just as they are preparing for a housewarming gathering, their peace is shattered by a young trespasser in their garden.

The Massies’ neighbours congregate in their living room and agree Bring your own chair. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3 to include a drink and cake.

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

The Birmingham branch of the International Plastic Modelling Society caters to scale modellers interested in a variety of subjects including Aircraft, Vehicles, Ships, Science Fiction and Figures. All ages and abilities welcome, building anything from basic kits to complicated scratch-built models. Meetings take place at Longbridge Methodist Church in the Reception/Cafe area (1654/8 Bristol Road South, B45 9TY) usually on the 3rd Sun each month (sometimes the date is changed to avoid clashing with model shows or holiday periods). You can find more info at: www.ipmsbirmingham. blogspot.co.uk 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 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,

to form a neighbourhood watch group to safeguard against further incidents. But after the Massies’ beloved garden gnome is thrown through their window, matters swiftly escalate, complicated by Martin’s burgeoning romance with Amy, wife of Gareth who was formerly involved with Luther, husband of Magda. . .

What begins as a well-intentioned scheme for a safer community ends in violence and acrimony.

Tickets £7 (£6 conc) can be booked from Dave on 0121 453 8733 or Bob on 0121 445 2323.

Barnt Green, B45 8BT) every second Weds 7.30–9.30pm. For more info call 0121 445 3907 or 0121 445 2813 or visit www. trefoilguild.co.uk Alvechurch Ex-Services Association meets on the second Weds each month (except January) at Alvechurch Social Club at 12.30pm. They are looking for new members, so if you have ever served in any branch of the forces and are free at lunchtime, please go along and join in. midland ancestors meets monthly at 7.45pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove, B60 1AS. On Oct 9 Mike Fisher presents Building a Family Tree – a live demonstration of building a family tree from scratch using various internet sites. More info at www. bromsgrovebmsgh.co.uk Common thread is a friendly group of women who enjoy crafts including sewing, knitting, crochet and more, together with tea, cake and chat. For more info contact Maggie on 0121 439 9324 or Jayne on 0121 445 1113.

Available for hire: The Wheel community room by St Catherine’s Church, Blackwell. Suitable for groups. Quiet, enclosed garden adjacent. For details contact the church office on 0121 445 1425.

Bromsgrove (1982) Probus Club provides regular opportunities for retired professionals and businessmen to meet socially and share common interests. A members’ meeting is held at Avoncroft Arts Centre on the 3rd Weds each month, 10am–12noon, including refreshments and a talk by a guest speaker. For more

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continued from previous page info visit www.bromsgroveprobus.co.uk or contact Jim on 01527 833531.

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.

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 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 Oct 15 Callum Potter presents Globular Clusters – Galactic Fossils. 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 Worcester-Birmingham & Droitwich Canals Society meets at the Alvechurch Boat Centre, Scarfield Hill (just a few steps behind The Weighbridge pub) on an “almost monthly” basis. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month, 7.45pm. There is usually a guest speaker and a raffle. Non-members are very welcome to come along. Please visit the website: www.wbdcs.org.uk Beoley Good Companions, a group for retired people, meets on the 1st Mon monthly at Beoley Village Hall to socialise and enjoy an entertainer or speaker. Membership only £7 per year plus £2 entry

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Tree festival A Christmas Tree Festival takes place at Alvechurch Baptist Church from Fri Nov 29 to Tues Dec 3.

There will be lots of events, including music, a film afternoon, Advent carol service and a Christingle activity, and of course the Christmas trees displayed by village groups. More details to follow next month, but for more info contact Alyson Williams at Alyson.williams1@btinternet.com

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.

THE FRIENDSHIP Club of Barnt Green has its next meeting on Oct 16, when Simon Beckett gives a talk on The History of Beckett’s Farm. Meetings usually take place at 2.15pm at the Friends Meeting House, Barnt Green. Visitors £3 to include tea and biscuits. For more details call Rosalind Tyler on 0121 445 0598.

Alvechurch Baptist Church Hall has regular Monday to Thursday morning and afternoon booking vacancies. Next to the car park, and available at reasonable rates for regular bookings, with “special rates” for local community organisations, the two halls can accommodate up to 60 persons at a time. More details on the church website: www.alvechurchbaptist.org.uk To discuss ABC hall bookings, please call Mrs Joyce Pimm on 0121 445 4635.

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 Oct 10 it’s The History of Needlemaking with David Chatterly. Please call Janet for more info on 0121 447 7870.

Sarah Bradley. The story of the local “edge tool” industry. 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 Oct 10, expert photographer Ralph Ward presents Steam in the 1960s.

More details from Dave on 01527 873800 or Gordon on 01527 873609.

KINGFISHER PROBUS Club provides the opportunity for retired and semi-retired men to meet people in a friendly situation.

Meetings are held at The Foxlydiate Arms, 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. Now recruiting – pop along to a meeting or contact Max Sayer on 0121 445 4724.

HOPWOOD VILLAGE Hall is available for hire: ideal for parties and gatherings.

Contact Ann on 0121 447 7668 or visit www.hopwoodvillagehall.co.uk 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, please email bromsgroveladiesprobus@ gmail.com

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

ALVECHURCH HISTORICAL Society meets on the first Mon of the month (except Jan) at 7.45pm at the Museum in School Lane, Alvechurch. On Oct 1, John Butterworth presents The Nurse who Changed GuineaBissau. More details from Anne Humphries on 0121 445 5955. New members welcome.

LICKEY HILLS Local History Society meets monthly at 7.30pm in the Trinity Centre, Old Birmingham Road, Lickey B45 8ES. On Oct 16 it’s The Rise and Fall of the Belbroughton Scythe-making Industry by

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

Village What’s On odd reminisce over a glass of beer. Join us: call Mike Betts on 07960 303254 or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/woodrush 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.

CAN YOU Hear Me? (Communication Forum) holds an Open Morning at Alvechurch Cricket Club on Oct 17 from 10am–1pm, open to all. Those with hearing loss will find relevant information given in a relaxed and hearing aidfriendly presentation. Hearing people are welcome to come along and learn how working together can make life and communication easier. For further information please do not hesitate to contact Pat on 079663 70448 The group 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 please contact Graham Wiseman on 0121 460 1402.

SILVER THREADS, the Alvechurch club, meets on the first Weds each month at 2pm in Alvechurch Village Hall. You’ll be sure of a welcome in this friendly atmosphere, where members can chat over a cup of tea. There are regular bingo sessions, and occasional days out. New members welcome. More info from Pat on 0121 447 8630.

Forget-Me-Not is a group for people who have been bereaved, whether recently or at some point in the past, and would like to meet with others in a similar situation. Members meet twice a month in the upper room of the ARK at St Laurence Church, Alvechurch, and new members are always welcome! To find out more call Sue Phillips on 0121 445 3620.

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.

the MACULAR Society Barnt Green Support Group usually meets on the last Friday of the month (with some exceptions) at The Parish Centre, behind St Andrew’s Church, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green, B45 8NR, from 2 to 4 pm. It’s a friendly, selfhelp group, which proves there is more to life than this devastating eye condition.

New members always welcome. For more info, ring Wendy on 0121 445 1585 or Alan on 01527 877864.

SPORT, FITNESS & HEALTH 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 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.

Physiotherapy-Led Pilates Class – Weds evening 7.30pm and 8.30pm at Cofton Hackett Village Hall. 6 lessons for £50. Mixed ability classes to improve muscle tone and posture as well as overall body strength. Pro-lates Pilates Retreat Oct 20, Bromsgrove Hotel and Spa, 9am– 5pm. Contact Beth on 07841477363 or elizabethalexanderltd@gmail.com ZUMBA with LEESH! Come and SHAKE it til you make it, every Monday 7.30–8.30pm at Crown Meadow School. Contact: 07531 623959 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.

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 Tai Chi: would you like to make a positive change in 2018, help to relax, have a new interest and exercise? Classes at Finstall Village Hall, Wednesdays 2pm.

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

Classes £7.50 each with 4 weeks payable

up front. Equipment provided. Please contact Sarah on 07970 072038 or hello@ themotorcyclingyogi.co.uk 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!

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 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.

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 Oct 7, when Grace and Clive Hampson (0121 445 1683) lead A Leisurely Stroll Around Alvechurch. Meet in Tanyard Lane car park at 2.30pm. More info at www.alvechurchvs.org 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 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 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

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continued from previous page and mat classes. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Call or text 07759 590830, email pilates@steff affleck.co.uk or visit www.steffaffleck.co.uk

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

ALVECHURCH WALKING Buddies: join a regular local walk with like-minded people who simply want to go on a local, sedate and friendly walk with no pressure. Well-behaved 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.

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.

THE RAMBLERS, BROMSGROVE GROUP: Guided walking with our group for pleasure, fitness and fun. Full programme of walks / events throughout the year. More info at www.bromsgroveramblers.webs. com or Clare on 01527 821917 or Peter on 01527 558203.

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

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 Mercian Nordic Walking: Walking and exercise activities outdoors at the Ryland Centre and on local walking trails. Ian Northcutt BEM and his colleagues provide instruction and lead fun, friendly groups for all levels of fitness. More info at www. merciannordicwalking.co.uk PILOXING CLASSES: fusion of Pilates/ boxing /dance. ALL levels of fitness. Tues 9.30am (Alvechurch), Tues 7pm (Barnt Green) and Sat 8.45am (Burcot). Alison: 07790 916947, alibenford@yahoo.co.uk, Facebook: ‘Exercise with Alison Benford’ Junior cricket coaching at Alvechurch Cricket Club runs every Sun from 10am to noon throughout the season, for boys and girls aged five to 11. All abilities welcome to enjoy cricket in a friendly environment.

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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 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 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 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 Lee-Ann’s Fitness Classes: Zumba Fitness on Mondays 7.30pm (£4) and Cardio Aerobics on Wednesdays 7.30pm, both at Alvechurch Middle School. Contact LeeAnn on 07888 841034.

TRADITIONAL YOGA: Classes on Monday evenings at Lickey End Methodist Church.

Suitable for all. Please call Sandra on 01527 835642 for more information.

CATSHILL FC offers youth coaching sessions each Saturday morning at Catshill

Middle School, Meadow Road, Catshill, B61 0JW. Boys and girls from Reception age upwards are welcome. Contact Gary on 07462 118920 or see www.catshillfc. co.uk for further info.

BROMSGROVE & REDDITCH Badminton Club welcomes players for social and league play. Playing Sunday evenings 5.40 to 7.40pm. Details from Steve Whittaker 07805 051456.

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 Legs Bum Tums: Thurs 9.15–10am at the Friends Meeting House, Barnt Green. £3 per 45min session. A great workout to target those difficult-to-hit areas. Adaptations offered depending on ability – all welcome.

Active Seniors: Thurs 10–11am at the Friends Meeting House, Barnt Green. £3.15 per one-hour session. Active session for older people who want to keep fit and healthy – all welcome.

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 Pilates: Thurs 12–1pm at Alvechurch Baptist Church. £3.15 per one-hour session. Pay as you go session concentrating on core work, working on posture, alignment and tummy/back conditioning.

Zumba Gold: Thurs 1–2pm at Alvechurch Baptist Church. £3.15 per one-hour session. For people who want to stay active and fit with a dance-style class, keeping the high energy and funky moves of Zumba but without the jumping and spinning around, making it accessible to all.

Tai Chi (Qigong) sessions in Alvechurch Village Hall on Mon 10–11am and Fri 11am–12noon, both £3 per session.

Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions. Tai Chi also takes place at Hopwood Village Hall on Tues

Village Village What’s What’s On On 7pm (beginners) and 8pm (intermediate/ advanced), and Weds 10–11am. Classes £5. More details on 07831 743737, or see www.paintingtherainbow.co.uk for daytime classes and www.kaiming.co.uk for evening classes.

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.

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.

Every Scout Group in Bromsgrove (which includes Barnt Green, Blackwell, Catshill, Finstall as well as the town centre) currently has girls and boys waiting to join, their numbers restricted by the ratio of adults to young people. A few more adults helping would enable existing leaders to open more Beaver Colonies and Cub Packs and allow more young people to experience Scouting. If you could spare a few hours, call Val on 01527 837060 or visit www.bromsgrovescouts.org.uk Pol pol’s Playtime runs stay and play sessions each Mon 10am–12noon and 12.30–2.30pm, and Tues 12.30–2.30pm at Beoley Village Hall. £4 per child and £1 per sibling Visit ‘POL POL’s PLAYTIME’ on Facebook for full info.

TINY CHURCH Lickey: babies, toddlers and carers meet in Holy Trinity Church, Lickey, on Weds from 11.15am–12.45pm during term times. Games, toys, snacks and stories, with a time to meet together with God. Just pop along or contact clive. rushton@btinternet.com RHYTHM TIME: Award-winning multi-sensory, fun music classes for babies, toddlers

Learn new skills at library Alvechurch Library has plenty going on for families this autumn, with regular drop-in Baby, Bounce and Rhyme sessions every Mon and Fri from 10–10.30am, and Storytimes every Tues from 11–11.30am and Sat from 2.30pm.

There are also a few spaces for children aged 8–12 years in the junior book club, Chatterbooks, which meets monthly on Mon from 3.30–4.30pm. l Happy Pets: Geraldine from the Blue

Cross will give a fun talk about looking after your pets and staying safe around dogs – lots of useful tips for little ones!

Drop in on Mon Oct 8 between 3.30– 4.15pm. Free event, no need to book.. l Dangerous Diaries Workshop: Tues

Oct 30 from 2.15–3.15pm (ages 5-7) and 3.30–4.30pm (ages 8-11). Explore Learning will help you travel to the North and South Poles and develop the skills to captures your experiences in a diary. Free to attend, no need to book. l Irene’s Creative Writing class will start again on Sep 20, and the library is keen

and pre-schoolers. Classes in Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Lickey and Bromsgrove: see timetable at www.rhythmtime.net/vt374 or email: rhythmtimevicky@gmail.com BABY & TODDLER swimming classes with Turtle Tots: Thursdays 9.30–11.30am in Barnt Green. Teaching water confidence, key life-saving skills & stroke development. Great post-natal workout! More info: holly.wyer@turtletots.com Marlbrook Pre-School: St Luke’s Church Hall, Braces Lane. Learning through play from 2 years to school age.

Mon–Fri, 9am–3pm, term-time only. Contact Tina: 07951 869175 or Sharon: 07913 486619.

New NCT Home Birth Support Group in Alvechurch meets Sunday evenings in the home of a volunteer. All welcome. Meet in an informal atmosphere, share concerns, get information and hear first-hand experiences. More info from Emilie on 07874 927 256 or emiliedeeringbfc@gmail.com St John’s Baby & Toddler Group meets every Friday morning between 9.15 and 11am during term time at St John’s church hall, Kidderminster Road, Bromsgrove. For further details please contact Cathy on 01527 870048 or just come along.

to attract more people. Whether you’re writing purely for pleasure or for profit these workshop-style sessions will help you to find out what you want to write and how to do it. Runs for seven weeks, 10.30am–12.30pm. Cost £92. Course number 16016 l A Family First Aid Essentials course

takes place on Tues Dec 11, 9.30am– 12.30pm. Learn the essential skills to keep your friends and family safe. Please book in advance. Course 15931. l Patrick’s ongoing French and Spanish

classes continue throughout the year, three days a week. Email Patrick on 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. 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.

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–

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

continued from previous page 11.20am at the Ark in Alvechurch. All are welcome, no charge; tea and coffee available for parents and grandparents. Come and join in! blackwell Baby & Toddler Group runs from 10–11.30am every Weds (term-time only) at Blackwell Methodist Church Hall, Greenhill, Blackwell B60 1BL. Small group run by local mums, all welcome. Great chance to meet local families and for your child to make new friends. Any questions please call Carrie on 07985 539983 or find the group on Facebook.

Bromsgrove NCT Bumps and Babies Group now meets every Thursday, 10–11.30am at David Lloyd Fitness Centre, Slideslow Drive, B60 1GJ. The group is free and anyone is welcome, including toddler siblings. Contact Claire and Karen at bromsgrove@nct.org.uk Rowney Green Pre-school offers learning through play for children from two years to school age, Tues–Thurs 9am– 2pm, term-time only. More info from Rosemary: 07836 770468 or Geraldine: 07725 553894.

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 see www.mentorlink.org.uk

parent if preferred. Close links with FFLAG. Visit www.newroad parents.org, email evansmargar@gmail.com or call Maggie on 01527 832492 for details.

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 BARNT GREEN Toddlers – Come and Play!

Every Thursday 10am-11.30am (term time only) for 0-3s at The Parish Centre, Sandhills Road (behind St Andrews Church).

Run by a qualified childminder with lovely new toys and the emphasis on fun. A great place to make friends before school.

Sibling discount and biscuits for parents too! Call Hannah on 07740 673894.

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

Flower Society enjoys success Rosehill Flower Arrangement Society (RFAS) has enjoyed a great history of successful flower arrangement demonstration programmes – having celebrated its 50th Golden Anniversary last year.

The annual programme includes beautiful and entertaining flower arrangement demonstrations by well-known National Registered flower arrangers, together with social fun events, raffles, outings and opportunities to meet new friends.

In July a great summer luncheon was enjoyed at the Trinity Centre in Lickey by a large number of members and visitors, followed by a “Magic Moments” floral demonstration.

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At the recent National Association of Flower Arranging Societies’ Area meeting in Evesham, Rosehill FAS was delighted when one of its members, Elaine Edgar, was congratulated upon her imaginative floral arrangement, winning second prize in the Novice Category “Midsummer Night’s Dream” and simultaneously picking up the award for “Best use of Garden Plant Material” in the show.

Rosehill FAS meets on the second Monday of the month (except January) at 2pm at the Trinity Centre, Lickey.

New visitors are warmly welcome to go along. For more info, contact Belinda on 0121 447 7477 or Diana on 01527 870549.

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

GARDENS & FLOWERS WYCHBOLD FLOWER Club meets nearly every 2nd Tues of the month (unless there’s an outing) at 7.30pm in the Royal British Legion Hall, De Wyche Road, Wychbold WR9 7PN. The varied and interesting programme includes demos, workshops, garden visits and garden party, and there’s also a plant stall and raffle. Visitors 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 7.45pm.

Small, friendly informal club – new members/visitors very welcome. More info from Clare on 01527 66071.

ROWNEY GREEN Horticultural Society meets at the Village Hall on the 2nd Thurs each month at 7.30pm. Guests always welcome: £3.50 including refreshments.

On Oct 11 the speaker is Pauline Thomas, a volunteer at Westonbirt Arboretum. Her subject will be The Wonders of Westonbirt.

For more info contact Lindsay Smith on 01527 592874.

Dodford Gardening Club meets on the 2nd Monday each month (except August) usually in Dodford Village Hall at 7.45pm. New members and visitors welcome. More info at www.dodford gardeningclub.co.uk or call Penny on 07706 153618.

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

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

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

Ring Claire for more information, and to book, on 07564 339157.

BROMSGROVE FLOWER Club meets on the 3rd Thurs each month at 2.15pm (except Jan) in All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B61 1AA. New members and visitors are warmly welcomed to spend a lovely afternoon of flowers and fun, watching a professional produce several arrangements which are then raffled, followed by refreshments. There is also an optional flower arranging competition, a bring and buy stall and often other stalls including plants, crafts, clothing. Further info at www.bromsgroveflowerclub.org.uk or ‘Bromsgrove Flower Club’ on Facebook, or from Wendy on 01905 480571.

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.

games & COMPETITIONS Shirley and Wythall Chess Club meets at Wythall Community Association in Silver Street, Wythall, B47 6LZ, every Thurs from 7.30pm. The club has four teams playing in competitive leagues. Friendly atmosphere. New players are most welcome, either just turn up or contact Barry Knee on 01564 826250 for details.

The ALVECHURCH Templars Wargames Club meets most Monday evenings from 6.30pm at the Alvechurch Sports & Social Club. Visit (or join) the ‘Alvechurch Templars’ Facebook page for details or e-mail Karl Farrell at bluenostrils@outlook.com A WHIST DRIVE takes place every Weds from 7.15–9.30pm at Buckley’s Green Community Centre, Alvechurch (B48 7NG). The friendly group welcomes new

members. £2 entry, includes raffle ticket and prizes.

Bromsgrove Bridge 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.

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.

BROMSGROVE BRIDGE Clubs: The Amphlett and Crown Bridge Clubs meet at the Stroke Centre in Church Lane, Bromsgrove, on Mon and Fri evenings. Both clubs are friendly and sociable. New members welcome, helpful guidance available and parking is excellent. Contact Alistair on 07814 393416 or Val on 01527 875041.

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 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’.

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. “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 BINGO every Wednesday and Sunday evening at the Alvechurch Sports & Social Club. First games start at 8.30pm in the lounge. Non-members welcome, phone 0121 445 2121 for more info.

A QUIZ takes place every Thursday from 8.30–10.30 pm at Bridley Moor & Batchley Social Club, Bridley Moor Road, Batchley B97 6HS. £1 to enter; all money to the winning team. There is also stand-up bingo with a prize. For more info call quizmaster Dave on 07815 456178.

Rummikub Club meets in the Social Room at Rowney Green Peace Hall fortnightly on Tuesdays from 2–4pm. Entry £2 to include tea and biscuits. You will be made very welcome! Info from Betty Oakley on 01527 63725.

A popular weekly quiz takes place each Thursday at Alvechurch Sports & Social Club and follows the normal format.

Doors open at 8pm. Organise a team, or just turn up and join a team. All welcome.

Barnt Green Duplicate Bridge Club meets at St Andrew’s Church Hall each Weds afternoon and would like new members – contact Liz on 0121 445 0704.

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

ART & LITERATURE All About The Sew is holding four fun and sociable sewing workshops on Friday mornings in November at Alvechurch Village Hall. For more details call Lorna on 07963 734756 or visit www.allaboutthesew.com Art & Soul Creative – artist and potter offering tutored art and pottery activities in Alvechurch. All abilities welcome. Call Marina on 0121 445 0655, email artand soulcreative.org@gmail.com or visit www. artandsoulcreative.org ART IN The Village: Learn how to draw and paint or how to improve your skills. Small

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Village What’s On continued from previous page friendly groups in home-studio setting in Barnt Green village with plenty of one-toone tuition. All abilities welcome. Daytime and evening classes available. Contact Jo Pardoe on 07967 041446 for more info.

Withybed Poets are a group of poetry writers who meet in Withybed Green to share their poems and write together.

They are open to anyone who enjoys writing and sharing poetry. They love reading their poems to audiences, which they do at the monthly Acoustic Roots in Alvechurch, but also for libraries, churches, community groups and festivals. They write poems on request for people and special occasions. Next meeting is Nov 14 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 445 3212 or Lyn on 0121 258 2771.

Alvechurch Readers Group now meets in the library on the last Tuesday of the month from 2pm until 3.30pm. New members always welcome. Please ring the Hub on 01905 822722 and ask for Alvechurch Library or pop into the library on the Birmingham Road.

Alvechurch Art Group meets at the Baptist Hall (rear of church) every Tues from 1–3.30pm, using all mediums except oil. All welcome, especially beginners.

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

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

Burcot Woodturning Club offers a friendly meeting place for woodturners of all abilities and experience. A varied programme includes demos, talks, hands-on practical evenings and visits to

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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 THE “CRAFTY Ladies” craft group meets every Monday morning in Alvechurch Library from 11am–1pm, with knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting etc. An informal and self running group that uses shared library space. More info on 01905 822722.

Bromsgrove Art Society has a new venue: Burcot Village Hall, 340 Alcester Road, Burcot, Bromsgrove, B60 1BH. Meetings are still held on the 3rd Weds each month (except Jan and Aug) at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome, entry £2 including refreshments. For more info email lyndasharp2010@yahoo.com or visit www.bromsgroveartsociety.org.uk 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 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.

LICKEY HILLS ART SOCIETY, a friendly bunch of artists and those interested in art, meet at Longbridge Methodist Church, Bristol Road, B45 9TY, on the first Sat each month at 7.30pm. Open to artists and non-artists alike. For more info call Graham on 0121 453 7097 or come along – the members would love to see you.

HELP & ADVICE Divorced/separated and having trouble seeing your children? Being excluded from their lives? The Association for Shared Parenting has been helping mums and dads deal with the family court system and 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 David Price, Member of the Royal Society of Medicine, is holding a taster session on how to increase your confidence at The Wheel, Blackwell B60 1PZ, on Weds Oct 17 at 11am or 7pm. Cost £7.50, duration 1.5 hrs. David states “Increasing your confidence by just 10% can turn your world around“. No need to book but please arrive promptly.

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.

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 FINSTALL CROSS WI meets at Finstall Village Hall on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. For more info see www. finstallcrosswi.wordpress.com or email finstallcrosswi@gmail.com Fairfield WI meets in Fairfield Village Hall on the second Weds of the month at 7.30pm. Contact Carol Hine on 01527 873072 or fairfieldwi1932@gmail.com 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.

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

ALVECHURCH WI meets on the second Monday each month in Alvechurch Village Hall, at 7.30pm. For more info call President Julie Hurlston on 07583 326252 or email mrsjulieturley@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.

Bromsgrove WI meets at the Life after Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove B61 8RA on the second Tues each month at 2.15 pm. For more info please contact Christine Hickman-Smith 01527 870342 or email christine.hs@uwclub.net

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

ARK ANGELs WI meets on the second Monday each month from 7.30pm at the Ark, Alvechurch. On Oct 8 it’s Mindfulness with Deb Hawken. For more info email ark.angels@hotmail.com

To have your event or group listed, send details to Sally Oldaker via the addresses on Page 3, by Oct 16.

Community and non-profit groups are listed free of charge – please contact us for further enquiries.

Village Baking

Warm up with autumnal cake T

In our occasional recipe series, keen baker Jen Morris, of Rowney Green, creates a seasonal spiced bake.

his cake tastes of autumn; the apples and sultanas, nuts and spice combine for a richly flavoured but still light cake, which begs for a cup of tea with it. Woolly socks and a blazing fire are optional, but highly recommended!

If mixed spice is not to your taste – and it is a bit “Christmassy” for some – you could use ground cinnamon or ground ginger in its place; both have the same warming effect.

Ingredients: l 150g softened butter l 150g light brown muscovado sugar, plus extra for sprinkling

l l l l l l l

150g self-raising flour 1 tsp mixed spice 3 eggs, beaten 2 tbsp milk 2 eating apples 100g pecans, broken into pieces 75g sultanas

1) Heat oven to 180C/ 160C fan/ Gas 4.

Lightly grease and line an 18cm loosebottomed or springform cake tin.

2) Place the butter, sugar, flour, spice, eggs and milk into a mixing bowl, and beat with a hand-held electric mixer for 2–3 mins, until light and fluffy.

3) Peel, core and quarter the apples,

then slice them thinly. Reserve a handful of the apple pieces and fold the rest, with the pecans and sultanas, into the cake mix.

4) Pour the mix into the tin, smoothing the surface, then scatter the reserved apple over the cake and top, followed by a generous sprinkling of muscovado sugar.

5) Bake in the pre-heated oven for 1 hour – 1 hour 10 mins, until cooked through.

6) Leave to cool slightly in the tin for 10 mins, before removing to a rack.

Serve warm.

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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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