TheVillage October 2019
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NEWS & FEATURES from Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Blackwell, Burcot Beoley, Cofton Hackett, Finstall, Hopwood, Bordesley, Rowney Green, Lickey, Lickey End, Marlbrook, The Oakalls . . . everywhere in between!
inside
TheVillage
Issue 206 October 2019
Bringing you village life for more than 20 years
Boys Raise Big Total Page 6
Warm Welcome Page 22
Editorial: Editor: Sally Oldaker Publisher: Richard Peach The Limes Alvechurch Worcestershire B48 7RR
Showtime! Pages 32–33
Tel: 0121 445 6757 email: news@villageonline.co.uk
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Shining Bright Page 42
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visit: villageonline.co.uk The Village (ISSN 1466-3376) is published by Platform Publishing & Media Ltd (Reg Office: 87 Hewell Rd, Barnt Green, B45 8NL) and printed by Buxton Press in Derbyshire. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written consent is prohibited. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any errors made in advertisements or for claims made by any advertisers which are incorrect. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising for any reason. All material submitted for publication is done so at the owner’s risk and no responsibility is accepted by the publisher for its return.
Al Fresco Cooking Pages 50–52
Where is That? Page 55
Cover: A conker in its spiky green husk, photographed by Dennis Brown, of Hopwood.
Village News
Litter-pick boost for green village
Coun Kate Van Der Plank and Coun Annette English with Crown Meadow First School pupils Sam Merricks and Oscar Thomas, both aged six.
The campaign for a Cleaner, Greener Alvechurch, launched by independent district councillor Kate Van Der Plank this summer, received a boost with the introduction of a “Two-Minute Litter Pick” board at The Meadows. The board, provided by Bromsgrove District Council as part of a national initiative, holds litter pickers and bags so that visitors to the park can spend a few minutes collecting litter before taking it home to be disposed of or
recycled. Coun Van Der Plank is delighted with the start to the campaign: “We had great attendance at our open meeting, and more than 200 people have already joined our Facebook group.” Along with fellow independent councillor Annette English, Coun Van Der Plank has also set up working parties to look at recycling, green spaces and sustainable living as well as the problem of litter. Lickey End pickers: Page 20
Green Belt roll-back keeps on table ba rn tc hu rc h ne wtow n
T
he controversial GL Hearn study, which outlines the concept of a “garden town” in the Village area, is still on the table as Bromsgrove moves into the next stage of its District Plan. The potential development, dubbed “Barntchurch”, could see 10–15,000 homes built between Alvechurch and Barnt Green as housing pressure blows out from Birmingham. At a press briefing to launch the next consultation stage of the District Plan, Head of Planning Ruth Bamford told The Village the council “can’t ignore” the report. “The Hearn study is out there; it exists as a planning document, so it would be nonsense to do our plan and not give the public a chance to comment on that, and it will be considered by our inspector. We’re not embracing it, but we can’t ignore it.” Council leader Karen May added, “We won’t work around Hearn, but
population: 40,000+
please drive carefu lly
we will make a sustainable plan and take residents on a journey with us.” The council has also carried out the first stage of its Green Belt Review. Ms Bamford announced that building in the Green Belt was unavoidable, since Bromsgrove is required to build 6,500 new homes before 2040 – as well as taking Birmingham overspill. “It’s a given that we’ll have to roll back the Green Belt – we are saying very clearly now that we are doing it. Bromsgrove, in fact 89 per cent of it, sits within the Green Belt, which is unusual in national terms. “People get confused between Green Belt and green fields – these houses won’t necessarily be built in green fields, although they probably will be.” Bromsgrove’s strategic planning chief Mike Dunphy added that the total equated to 379 new homes per year. “The housing market may change, but that number can only go
up, not down. The vast majority will be on Green Belt – we don’t have any other land of any magnitude left.” As well as a second public consultation, the council launches its “call for sites” on September 30 – this is when developers are invited to submit plans for specific areas. Ms Bamford explained: “These will far exceed what we need, but will show interest that we can work with.” n The council has published a document reporting on the “Issues and Options” public consultation that took place earlier this year, containing 3,500 responses to questions on the future of the district. This figure counts each separate answer to the lengthy questionnaire as a single response, even if several came from one individual. Just 68 residents actually took part, outnumbered by the 83 representations from landowners and their agents.
The Village
October 2019
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Village News
u
Path pressure grows Almost half of the designated public open space on the CALA Homes “Foxhills” development in Barnt Green is behind locked gates, a councillor has revealed. Barnt Green district and parish councillor Charlie Hotham said he made the discovery while investigating locked gates blocking a designated public right of way through the estate. Villagers should be able to walk through Foxhills from Fiery Hill Road, via Butterwick Close, to Barnt Green Cricket Club without having to brave traffic on Cherry Hill Road, which does not have a pavement. Instead, keypad-operated entrances and exits have been installed; one pair of gates on the estate and a blank steel door at the Cherry Hill Road end, blocking any right of way to all but the five houses within the locked area. While Coun Hotham was checking original plans for the right of way, he looked at how much of the area was meant to be open to the community as part of planning permission conditions. According to his calculations, 46 per cent of land that should be available to everyone in the community is inaccessible because of the gates that separate the houses from the rest of the estate.
ACCESS DENIED: The gates on Butterwick Close (above) and the steel door at Cherry Hill Road.
Coun Hotham told parish colleagues: “It’s a sad situation. The path is supposed to be open to everyone, and the community and the cricket club next door want it open. “CALA Homes didn’t achieve the amount of open space they were meant to include on the development, and they actually paid extra 106 money to the council because of it. “They have said they want to keep the footpath closed off for security reasons, but they can’t do that.” Promising to keep up the pressure, he said that a Bromsgrove planning officer had now made a site visit along with a CALA representative, and that he was now awaiting a response. Village View: Page 17
Pumpkins at the ready
It’s nearly time for Alvechurch’s annual Pumpkin Festival, which takes place this year on Saturday October 26 from 10.30am to 4pm in the village hall. Entrants can pick up an entry form from The Lounge or download from www.alvechurchvillagehall.co.uk, and carve or decorate a home-grown or shop-bought pumpkin or create a pumpkin-related craft item. As well as the pumpkin display, there will be pumpkin-themed activities for children, and pumpkin soup and cakes in the Pumpkin Café. Alvechurch Community Choir will be singing to promote the Festival at 11am in the square and 11.45am outside the hall. Funds raised will go to the hall and Papyrus (Prevention of Young Suicide).
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October 2019
Village News
Lickey parking fears Residential streets around Lickey Hills Country Park could become clogged with parked cars if charges are introduced at car parks serving the popular visitor attraction. This was the fear expressed by councillors at the September meeting of Lickey and Blackwell Parish Council after they heard details of the plans from an officer from Birmingham City Council, which owns the country park and its car parks. “The big concern for local residents is that people will park on the surrounding roads,” said parish council chairman Nick Forknell. “On sunny days there are already lots of cars parking on roads such as Twatling Road and parking charges could exacerbate this.” Matt Hagney, of Birmingham City Council, said: “We are aware there is the potential for displacement.” But he added that as the surround-
Lickey & Blackwell Parish Council has co-opted two new councillors: 19-year-old law student Aled Luckman (Shepley ward), and retired medical consultant Bakul Kumar (Lickey Grange ward). Parish clerk Lisa Winterbourn said: “We are delighted to welcome them to the council as they both have a lot of expertise to offer.”
ing roads were the responsibility of Worcestershire County Council, it would be that council’s decision “when it comes to highways restrictions”. He believed that people wouldn’t choose to park some distance away from the destination “and then walk for the sake of a couple of quid”. But county councillor Kit Taylor said: “I can’t see why someone in walking boots is going to be concerned about an extra bit of a walk.”
Birmingham is running a fourweek consultation over the proposed charges, starting on September 29, and is explaining to residents and visitors that it is necessary to generate income for the park “It is for investment in ongoing and future work,” added Mr Hagney. The proposed charges are £2.20 for one to four hours and £3.30 for four hours and longer, with a charge of just 50p for the first hour. An annual season ticket would be £53. The machines would take coin, card and contactless payments. “Charges will apply from 8am-6pm, so if the park opens at 7am, there is a free hour for dog walking,” added Mr Hagney. Coun Forknell asked: “Is this going to happen and you are just consulting to keep people quiet?” Mr Hagney replied that Birmingham’s full cabinet had approved parking charges, “but it is not automatic”.
News in brief. . .
The
future of Worcestershire’s libraries, including in Alvechurch, remains unknown after an interim report on the review into library services, said by county councillor Charlie Hotham to be “very much kicking it into the long grass until a new report proper in November some time”.
Over
the summer, Beoley Parish Council has referred more than 20 incidents of uncontrolled dogs in the parish to Bromsgrove District Council’s dog warden.
Barnt
Green Parish Council agreed to fund seeds for new planting in its wildflower patch on Hewell Road. Resident Rachel Banner provided a quote for a low fence to be built around the patch, but the council did not have enough budget this year.
Blackwell
residents are urging the parish council to press for “no HGVs” signs on Greenhill. One told the parish council’s September meeting: “We have got big commercial vehicles coming up Greenhill. The villagers are getting really worried about children’s safety.” The resident suggested directing HGVs up Fiery Hill Road at the Barnt Green Inn, then down Linthurst. “But then people on Fiery Hill Road will be complaining about us sending HGVs up their road,” said county councillor Kit Taylor.
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The Village
October 2019
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Village News
Price-check on nature site sale The Friends of High House Woods, formed after the Lickey wildlife area was put up for sale, are applying to Lickey & Blackwell Parish Council for a grant to pay for an independent valuation of the site. The parish council was awaiting an application from the group after hearing that the district valuer had said a valuation would cost around £200. Parish councillor Jill Harvey told councillors: “Since 2005 there has been a lot of public money spent on High House Woods to improve wildlife habitats and access for people. “We are just about to come up to the autumn maintenance schedule – do we want to carry on and do the work? The asking price of £225,000 seems excessive, so it is not going to sell very quickly; it could be on the market for some time.” Parish chairman Nick Forknell
asked: “Because the wood is up for sale is it an opportunity for us to do something about that?” Coun Harvey said: “We would have to raise funds and all the advice we are getting is that it is over-valued. “Every indication we have had is that that is one of the last places in Bromsgrove that could be built on.” “We would like to get a professional valuer to value it. We have asked the district valuer and he has said it would cost about £200.” Coun Janet King agreed: “We need to know what we are talking about.” Resident Keith Woolford, who is part of the Friends of High House Wood group, asked: “Would the parish council consider a grant application from a group to pay for the valuation?” Coun Forknell replied: “We will await a grant application and then consider that.”
News in brief. . .
Work
has begun on restoring the derelict wind pump at the top of Cobley Hill between Tutnall and Alvechurch. Part of the new structure has been installed (shown above) and you can see more photos in next month’s Village.
Barnt
Green Parish Council almost had to downgrade their full council meeting to an informal discussion when only three councillors were present. For official business to proceed, there must be a minimum of four councillors present to form a “quorum”. Luckily a fourth member arrived so that the meeting could go ahead.
The
lights could go out for Beoley residents in Watery Lane if the parish council decides to call time on the parish’s only owned lamp post. An electricity bill of £1,600 for the year from NPower had given local councillors quite a shock.
Car park plan ‘still a benefit’ A
A new parish car park at Rowney Green is still on the agenda, despite a change of heart by a youth football team which had inspired the idea in the first place. Alvechurch Parish Council is considering building a 22-bay car park on the present site of its play area (pictured above) in Rowney Green. The idea was in response to the notice from Alvechurch youth footballers that they were moving their
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October 2019
matches from the Rowney Green playing fields to Bromsgrove because of a lack of parking. Parish chairman Marc Worrall said: “Now they have come back wanting to use Rowney Green.” But he added: “We have more facilities up there and I think they are under-utilised. “I would still like to think that better parking facilities would be of a benefit to the community.”
Neighbourhood Plan for Lickey & Blackwell and Cofton Hackett parishes is close to being approved by an independent examiner. “We are looking forward to having a referendum maybe later this year,” said Lickey & Blackwell parish chairman Nick Forknell.
With
the “worst winter for 30” years predicted, Beoley Parish Council has approved the purchase of a grit bin for residents in Portway.
Crown Meadow First School and Nursery has some exciting opportunities for three volunteers to join our school governing body. We are seeking a community-minded professional person with an interest in education to join us in supporting our pupils to achieve the very best and beyond at our school. We are also seeking a further two governors with skills in: law, legislation, risk management, corporate business or HR. By sharing your time and skills with us, we will provide you with training and guidance to develop in this interesting role. It is a unique opportunity to learn about education and enhance your skills.
To learn more about our school, you are welcome to visit us.
Closing date – 11th October 2019 If you are able to help, and have the time and enthusiasm to commit to our school, please contact the school office on 0121 445 4540 or email office@crownmeadow.worcs.sch.uk
The Village
October 2019
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Village News
Station lacks information B
arnt Green parish council took the opportunity to reiterate its “wish-list” for the village station during a visit by West Midlands Railway representatives. Richard Brooks (customer experience director) and station manager Zoe Hodgins attended the council meeting to give feedback on improvements made to the station following requests from councillors. Mr Brooks said he was ”pleased with what’s been achieved” so far, in that there was new signage on Platform 1, and the “help” facility on the ticket machines was now working. The machine on Platform 3 will soon be moved to Platform 1, so that
tickets can be bought at both station entrances. However, parish chairman Robert Cholmondeley pointed out several other improvements that have yet to be made. “We still have concerns about Platform 1 – there’s no live departures board and no PA system, so people have to go to other platforms to find out when the trains are coming. There’s not even a paper timetable on the Fiery Hill side. “We also need more seats and shelters, some cycle racks, and we’d like the car park to be reconfigured.” Mr Brooks said that everything was “on the list” with plans to complete all improvements by mid-2021. “The
good news is that it will get sorted, but it won’t be quick!” Coun Charlie Hotham suggested a reduction in Sunday fares, to encourage people to come out to Barnt Green and the Lickey Hills “like they used to in the 1920s” and also pointed out the need for more ticket checks to prevent people getting a free ride. Meanwhile, parish clerk Tracy Bodley reported that the new footbridge over the rail crossing at Cofton Hackett was complete, but a delay in Rights of Way paperwork meant it was unlikely to open in time for Barnt Green’s annual Community Walk on September 28.
Seniors find friendship
The Friendship Matters group that began at The Lounge in Alvechurch this spring has proved a great success. Its aim is to help combat isolation and loneliness in seniors and help them meet people and try new activities. Regular attendee Christine Honor says, ‘’A wonderful thing happened to me in April. I read in The Village about a new group in the village and began attending. It is a lovely, lively group and now my Mondays are great.’’ The group meets on Mondays between 10am to 2pm, and offers a varied programme. Events have included visits from the parish council and district councillor, a mindfulness session, live music, musical bingo and decopatch crafts. Coming soon are visits from the Fire Safety Officer, a colour therapist and an artist, as well as a samba drumming session in November. Pop into The Lounge to see the monthly programme on the notice board. Attendance is free for seniors, with subsidised drinks and a lunch available – you can stay for all or just part of the session. Community Support Worker Rachel is happy to answer any questions.
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October 2019
10 Years Ago 20 Years Ago From TheVillage archive
our october 2009 cover carried a picture of a skull in the vault of Beoley church, said to have been stolen from the grave of William Shakespeare . . . we explored the mystery inside.
From TheVillage archive
THE ANNUAL Alvechurch Alight event was on the cover of our October 1999 edition, with the 2,000-strong parade led by Hazel Watkiss and photographed by Les Ladbury. More coverage was inside.
September 2013 – the dig-
September 2013 – the dig-
IN THE NEWS: gers arrive Bromsgrove District Council had agreed to support an initiative launched by Alvechurch mums to establish a permanent meeting place for village teenagers. Elsewhere, an elderly customer had been left shaken after being threatened during a Saturday morning robbery at Lickey Post Office.
gers arrive IN THE NEWS: Lickey Parish Council was changing its name to incorporate Blackwell, where there were hopes for a new recreation space in a field near St Catherine’s Road. Meanwhile, Alvechurch was looking at ideas for traffic calming, and Barnt Green had a new mini-island between Sandhills Road and Lane and Bittell Lane.
THE REV Rob Fieldson (above right), vicar of St Andrew’s Barnt Green and St Michael’s Cofton Hackett, officiated at the wedding of a former parishioner – in the south of France. The marriage of Audrey, whose mother Wendy Mockridge (above left) lived in Cofton Hackett, to Peter Jacobsen, from Denmark, was held at the couple’s home near Avignon.
PUPILS AT St Andrew’s First School in Barnt Green were excited about their brand new information technology centre, which featured eight computers, printers, a scanner and digital camera. It had been funded by the PTA and the Government’s National Grid for Learning. Wythall theatre Company, now in its 41st year, was looking for new members in acting and backstage roles. The group was pictured performing Alan Ayckbourn’s A Chorus of Disapproval which had gained rave reviews.
AN initiative to bridge the generation gap saw elderly residents of Burcot Grange care home making weekly visits to Blackwell First School, where they listened to the pupils read. The Village
October 2019
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Alvechurch Parish Council News New Homes Bonus funding was recently approved by Bromsgrove DC to install a storage facility for sports equipment owned by football teams using the pitch. Future car parking options at Rowney Green playing fields are being discussed with local residents and the football teams that use that pitch. This is the beginning of council work on a parish-wide sports and recreational strategy, on which there will be wide consultations.
NEWSLETTER Autumn 2019 BROMSGROVE district plan review
Bromsgrove District Council is reviewing its District Plan, including a re-assessment of the green belt across the district because more land is needed for housing. The review started last year with an Issues and Options paper which local people were able to comment on (3,500 comments were received). A methodology for assessing the green belt was also agreed and in September 2019 this was considered by Bromsgrove councillors, including the three “Independents” representing Alvechurch. What does this mean for our Parish? Green belt land around the district has been divided into 60 areas, several of which lie wholly or partly within Alvechurch Parish. Each of these land parcels, as they are called, has been assessed against its contribution to the aims of the green belt. Broadly those aims are to prevent urban sprawl, keep communities separated and maintain the openness of the rural environment. What will happen next? If Bromsgrove councillors approve recent progress, there will be a “call for sites”, an opportunity for landowners and developers to tell the district council that they would like a particular piece of land to be considered for development. Even if Bromsgrove DC decides that a piece of land could be developed in future, the usual planning procedures would have to be followed. What is the Parish Council doing? APC wants to be assured that Bromsgrove DC is not treating the Hearn report as evidence of “local” housing need. That report was a desk-top study of perceived regional housing need which recommended significant Birmingham “overspill” be located in north Worcestershire… and which led to the concept of a new settlement, “Barntchurch”, emerging.
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Using our Neighbourhood Plan, APC is working with our independent district councillors to see what growth is sustainable here, and what isn’t. Factors like improved rail services might appear to support housing growth but our current oversubscribed schools and medical centre, and relatively poor road infrastructure, point to more substantial future growth being concentrated around Bromsgrove town.
parish playing fields
The Finlay Church Memorial Garden at The Meadows is complete, as low safety fencing now protects small children from the recently-installed “lovelock tree” (pictured below). Further tree pruning has been carried out in line with the council’s tree management surveys and better signage will soon be installed.
your local councillors collaborating
Two new parish councillors have been co-opted recently… our website shows the full list. It also shows our three district councillors and our county councillor. Meetings have taken place between parish and district councillors to plan how best to work together, especially in taking the Neighbourhood Plan forward. Meetings are planned soon to look at highways issues across the parish.
in brief
l Mayfield “Farm”: in August a public
inquiry led to the Traffic Commissioner imposing more restrictions on vehicle movements to the business and requesting a noise reduction plan to reduce the impact on local residents. l Parish councillors are considering the best way to support the Cleaner Greener Alvechurch initiative, set up by our independent district councillors and prominent on social media. l The bus shelter on Birmingham Road has been repaired… please let the Parish Office know if you see examples of similar vandalism so APC can resolve them quickly.
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.
Village VillageViews Views
The Lickeys are well Dear Editor – As Chair of the Lickey Hills Society (LHS), I would like to respond to the letter from John A Ridarta in your September edition. The letter is headed “Lickeys must be protected” and I am sure that everyone would agree. However, I am not clear what they need to be protected from. Mr Ridarta mentions developers but during my 30 years of involvement with the LHS, I am not aware of any development within the Country Park. The only significant building has been the popular and well-used Visitor Centre in Warren Lane, which opened in 1990. There has been much development in Cofton Hackett, but this has had a limited effect on the Lickey Hills Country Park. It is important to distinguish between the very rural nature of the Country Park and the more suburban nature of Cofton Hackett. Mr Ridarta asks who manages the Lickeys. The simple answer is that Birmingham City Council owns, manages and finances the Country Park. The bulk of the park is within Bromsgrove District Council’s area but neither they nor Worcestershire County Council make any financial or other contribution to its management, although many of the estimated half a million visitors each year live in these areas. The majority of country parks in the UK are managed by local authorities rather than by organisations like English Heritage as suggested in the letter. Like all local authorities, Birmingham has faced severe budget cuts in recent years and the Parks
Have your say . . . about anything! 16
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October 2019
Department has not been immune. However, the importance of the Lickeys has been recognised – it was the first park in Birmingham to receive the Green Flag Award in 2000, a national excellence award for parks and green open spaces, which it has attained every year since. As a consequence the cuts faced by the Country Park have been minimal when compared to other parks in the city. Many years ago, the Lickey Hills Consultative Committee was formed, composed of park users and local residents who meet throughout the year to consider all aspects relating to the management of the Country Park. Its formation was encouraged by the city council and it is seen as an example of good practice; subsequently a number of similar groups have been established in city parks.
The day-to-day and long-term planning for the Country Park is in the hands of a highly-qualified, experienced and excellent Ranger team based on the Lickeys. The team also has a responsibility for some 60 parks and green open spaces in the south-west of Birmingham. The Rangers are supported by organisations like the LHS and an army of volunteers who give their time, energy and expertise. Mr Ridarta correctly mentions the likely introduction of car parking fees, currently being considered. Once charges are introduced and all restoration costs have been met, we have been assured that monies raised will stay within the Country Park, for ongoing maintenance of the car parks, helping towards safeguarding the jobs of the Rangers and others and that there will be finances
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 16.
managed
available to spend on equipment and projects. It is important to remember that visiting the Country Park will remain free and that the charge will only be levied on the parking of vehicles. I trust that the above will help to answer some of the points raised in the letter and that the LHS and many others will continue to work to help ensure that the Lickeys, one of Birmingham’s flagship parks, are indeed protected for the benefit of this and future generations. Mike Brooke, Chair of Lickey Hills Society
Rangers do a great job
Dear Editor – Your contributor last month asked about the management of the Lickey Hills. I moved back into this area from Hertfordshire two years ago. There, I had been involved with managing a County Wildlife Trust nature reserve for 14 years. Since returning I have walked the Lickey Hills twice a week; monitoring fungi and mosses in season. During this time I have been impressed by the knowledge and the professionalism of the Rangers. They clearly understand the ecological issues involved in caring for the various habitats in the country park and have been managing these well in spite of limited man-power resources. Restoration of heath land is a top ecological priority. Much of UK heath has been lost to agriculture or afforestation with unsuitable soft wood. The Rangers regularly are confronted by members of the public who believe that the only answer is to plant more and more trees and never remove any. Getting the balance right in conservation is a major challenge. It seems from my experience that the Rangers are doing a sensible job. Even if the Lickeys were transferred to a different conservation organisation, it is more than likely that the same management regimen would be followed. Dr David Gompertz, Barnt Green
Police should listen to residents’ concerns
Dear Editor – With regard to the issue of motorists using Ten Ashes Lane as a cut-through (Short-cut concerns, The Village September 2019), I find it interesting that the local police deem that the speed and volume of traffic was “not of a high level of concern,” despite it being so for the residents of the road. Surely our police “police by consent” and if it’s a concern for the residents then they should at least be looking at the problem. It’s not that
continues overleaf
TheVillage View . . .
W
hat a fine mess there appears to be on a new housing estate in Barnt Green. First, a public right of way is believed to have been blocked by locked gates at either end – and now a large portion of land designated for public use also seems to have been rendered inaccessible by the gates. When developers come along with plans to cover green fields with roads and houses, they naturally want to be welcomed by the local community. Often, this is forced upon them anyway by the local planning authority as part of the deal to get the right to make a lot of money building new homes. These are in the form of “106” agreements, by which a developer might, for example, offer some of the land they are building on as public open space, or they make a contribution towards local facilities. It seems that somewhere along the line in the long planning wrangle that finally led to the creation of the 88-home “Foxhills” estate, between Fiery Hill and Cherry Hill roads in Barnt Green, a public footpath linking the two roads was included in the plans. Presumably this was done to make the development more acceptable to the local community – a community that had for more than a decade been campaigning against any building on the fields there. And it’s a great idea, too; enabling villagers to walk directly to the main entrance of Barnt Green Cricket Club without having to walk up or down Cherry Hill Road, a narrow lane with no footpath. The installation of locked gates, with keypads and codes known only to the residents of the five houses between them, was already under investigation by planning officers. And it now turns out, according to a local district and parish councillor, that almost half of the public space designated under the 106 process is between those locked gates and inaccessible to the public for whose use it is intended. Clearly, if the planning approval includes provision of the public right of way and access to the public open space, it is the planning authority’s duty to enforce this provision. But what if you are the people who have bought one of the five houses now stuck in the middle after, presumably, paying top dollar to live behind locked gates? It might have been possible to find another route for the right of way, but how can the public open space be moved? And if this can happen on an 88-home site, just think of the consequences of 10,000 to 15,000 new homes if “Barntchurch” was ever built. The Village
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Village Views continued from previous page 488 vehicles are speeding anyway, it’s that the majority of them are clearly ignoring an Access Only sign. On such a short stretch of road it would only need a occasional visits by a couple of officers, reporting offenders, before the problem was resolved. Mick Jennings, Cofton Hackett
Law is clear and must be upheld
Dear Editor – Your picture of one of the six identical road signs sited at the entrances to Ten Ashes Lane, Cofton Hackett, clearly shows a red circle. To save you a couple of quid buying an up-to-date Highway Code, it simply states that: a) circles give orders; b) red circles tell you what you must not do (in this case enter the road unless you are accessing a property in the road); c) the words “must not” refer to legal requirements that have to be obeyed. In short, people who enter and leave Ten Ashes Lane without visiting a property there are: i) breaking the law; ii) voiding their insurance in the event of an accident or claim; iii) liable to prosecution. Yet, in official traffic census during the last 24 months, we see that between 450 and 500 vehicles drive on Ten Ashes Lane illegally – every day, in a road that’s designed only to be an access for residents and isn’t safe for volumes of vehicles. Residents like Steve Smith have tirelessly campaigned to councils, police and the local MP to request enforcement. But no one seems prepared to do anything. Of course, they blame funding shortages. Or they say, “It’s someone else’s job”. Let’s make a prediction; someone will get hurt or worse. Then each of the agencies we entrust to maintain law and order, safety and security will blame one another. Among the constructive suggestions (all very affordable) made by residents during the last few years
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October 2019
Where’s Vinny?
Madeleine Paterson, of Alvechurch, was the latest winner of a Mini Vinny in our monthly competition – and she got the good news on her ninth birthday! If you want to win one for yourself, you’ll need to try to locate the little hedgehog hiding somewhere in this magazine (the one shown above is just a guide!). Just tell us where he’s hiding via phone, email or post – please include your contact details, especially if leaving a voicemail message – and we’ll draw a winner at random. The closing date is midnight on the 18th of every month. We’ll let you know if you’ve won and you can collect your Mini Vinny from our office – and pose for a photo with your prize!
are: a) install ANPR cameras and send automated penalty notices to any vehicle entering and exiting the road inside three minutes; b) make the road one-way; c) install humps; d) block one of the entrances. All very sane and self-funding if the law was upheld and fines levied. One of our “services” responded that their suggested solution is to remove the “must not” signs – then they don’t have a case to answer! I’m lost for words now. One last note: our MP in a direct message to me in February 2018, promised to meet in person and discuss this – but has not yet (19 months later) been available to do so . . . Julian Cobbledick, Cofton Hackett
Closing junction is not solution
Dear Editor – I don’t agree with Steve Smith and his proposals that Ten Ashes Lane be closed at the junction with Barnt Green Road. However, traffic calming and a 20mph limit are needed. I have written to our local MP, the Rt Hon Sajid Javid, Chancellor of the Exchequer – when I receive a response, you will all be the first to know. I agree that Ten Ashes is steep. I used to race down there on my cycle during school days; great fun but, now wiser, I fully accept it’s not much fun for local residents.
We have to consider delivery agents such as Royal Mail and the utilities. They need to have unobstructed access to Ten Ashes Lane and Lickey Coppice. Also, when engineering work is carried out and Groveley Lane closed, a temporary route may be needed down Ten Ashes Lane to access Barnt Green Road. John A Ridarta, Cofton Hackett
Saj is respecting ‘will of people’
Dear Editor – I would like to comment on the September Village View, and firstly point out that, like our MP Sajid Javid, I also voted “remain” in the EU referendum – but I strongly disagree that he has switched horses, as you put it. As soon as I saw the referendum result I accepted that we had to leave because we live in a democracy and it was “the will of the people” that we must do so. Therefore I admire our MP for now helping to achieve that end, and every person I speak to is fed up with it dragging on and wants it done. If you follow politics, and perhaps we pensioners have more time to do so, you will know that it is mainly the SNP who want to break up the UK regardless of being in or out of the EU. Also, I am amazed that you link continues overleaf
The Village
October 2019
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Village News
Thank you: Sarah Harris, of Primrose Hospice, receives the cheque from (from left) Joel Belshah, Joseph Vale and Brandon Lee.
Boys raise big total Three village schoolboys raised more than £1,000 for Primrose Hospice as part of a charity challenge. Brandon Lee and Joseph Vale, of Alvechurch, and Joel Belshah, of Barnt Green, recently joined King Edwards Five Ways Grammar School and as part of their induction were set a challenge to raise money over the summer holidays for a charity of their choice.
The 11-year-olds chose Primrose Hospice in Bromsgrove, which had cared for Brandon’s grandad, Derek Morris, a lifetime resident of Alvechurch, who died last August. The boys ran Beetle Drives in Alvechurch and Barnt Green and visited many of the local businesses which were very generous in providing prizes for raffles. Across the two nights they raised £1,001.06.
Vicky Onions gets to grips with a litter-picker from the “2-Minute” board provided for Lickey End by Bromsgrove District Council. The board, which holds two litter pickers and collection bags, has been installed outside Vicky’s Convenience Store and Post Office on Alcester Road, where the shop has taken on the role of ”board guardian”.
Village Views continued from page 18 local mindless vandalism, which is abhorrent, with Brexit. The people demonstrating with mass antisocial behaviour on the streets are trying to deny the will of the people. I think this is the “adult” way to look at it. D Woods, Lickey
Don’t blame it all on Brexit
Dear Editor – Your September Village View bemoans local vandalism before going off on an irrational rant about Brexit. You ask “Is it too much of a stretch to blame (local vandalism on) the cultural, political and economic damage being threatened against the whole of the country?” ; the answer to which is clearly: “Yes: it is
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October 2019
too much of a stretch”. Vandalism predates Brexit by many decades – indeed, the excellent article about the stained-glass windows at St Laurence Church mentions that the polycarbonate sheeting installed against vandalism in the 1970s had caused its own problems with the deterioration of the windows and their surrounds; so local vandalism, whether to church windows, bus-shelters or park benches, is not a new phenomenon. As to Sajid Javid’s change of heart, maybe he is simply aligning his views with those of his constituents in Bromsgrove District, which voted by 55.4% to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum on a 79.6% turnout, one of the highest in the country. Bob Dale, Weatheroak
Floral inspiration
Dear Editor – What a charming and interesting article, Flowers for the future, by Mary Green in your September magazine. Spurred on by the lovely wild flower bank at Alvechurch station, I made a bed this year and was well rewarded by the butterflies and bees that came to visit. So much so that I am making another next year. There are three plants in my garden that are still attracting bees and butterflies. They are lemon thyme, scabia and valerian. These have been in flower all summer and all the insects love them. If I see a plant that has bees or butterflies on it, I buy it from the garden centre. Dinah Brotherton, Alvechurch
Village People
Vicar takes up post
The Rev Sheri Gidney was officially installed as Vicar of Holy Trinity, Lickey and St Catherine's, Blackwell, in a special “Collation� service. Sheri has most recently been serving her three-year curacy in the next-door parish of Cofton Hackett and Barnt Green, and takes up her new position following the retirement of the previous vicar, Margaret Brighton. The service at Holy Trinity was led by the Rt Rev Anne Hollinghurst, Bishop of Aston, and Sheri was installed in the parish by the Venerable Jenny Tomlinson, Archdeacon of Birmingham. Sheri was warmly welcomed by members of the local community and congregation, with symbols representing her future ministry in the parish. Following the service, refreshments and a chance to chat were enjoyed by family, friends, community and congregation members, and clergy including Area Dean, Rev Canon Rob Fieldson, in the Trinity Centre. Details of groups for children and young people, bereavement support, coffee mornings, singing, art and crafts, baptisms, weddings, funerals, Sunday services and hiring the halls can all be found on the parish Facebook page or www.lickeychurch.com Below: The congregation gather; Rev Canon Rob Fieldson gives an address. All photos by Keith Woolford
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Above: Rt Rev Anne Hollinghurst welcomes Sheri. Below: Rev Canon Rob Fieldson, Ven Jenny Tomlinson, Rev Sheri Gidney, Rt Rev Hollinghurst.
Bring some colour into your lifestyle! Kitchen and furniture makeovers Showroom open to the public Unit 23 Silver Birches Business Park, Aston Road, Bromsgrove B60 3EU
Tel: 01527 877129
Village Directory
The Village Directory
To get your business or service noticed, call Louise on 0121 445 6757 Kind and supportive
ENGLISH and MATHS TUTOR
has spaces for new pupils. I can provide your child with the confidence, skills and knowledge to pass exams and excel at school. u Key stages 1, 2 and 3, 11+, GCSEs, A-levels u 15 years’ experience u Qualified teacher Telephone 0121 445 1862 or 07394 661517 for more details
traditional Joinery & furniture makers
Can’t get what you want? We make kitchens, conservatories, stairs, windows, doors etc, using traditional woodworking techniques to match existing work or to your own design. All work carried out to the highest standard.
The Workshop, 3 Bear Hill, Alvechurch B48 7JX
Tel: 0121 447 8017
Blackwell Golf Club Position: Cook Rate of pay: £10 per hour Hours per week: 16 We are looking for an experienced cook to carry out food preparation/basic kitchen duties on Mondays and Tuesdays and be available to work Saturdays if required. Typically 16 hours a week but some flexibility would be desirable.
If you seek further information, please contact Elle Cooke on 0121-445-1994 (Ext 1) or email your CV to clubmanager@blackwellgolfclub.com
www.robertsbespokejoinery.co.uk
Independent home care agency owned and run by an experienced Registered Nurse Traditional, bespoke, person-centred care Safe, caring, effective, responsive and well-led Registered with the Care Quality Commission
Contact Jackie Grant on 0121 448 3348 jackie@windmill-hill-care.co.uk www.windmill-hill-care.co.uk The Village
October 2019
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Village Directory
R. M. B. SERVICES Domestic Appliance & Gas Engineer as seen on Alvechurch Village Society’s Facebook page
Treat Your Home to a NEW Carpet or Rug
Don’t forget to book your winter boiler service now!
Boiler servicing and breakdown Servicing of gas fires etc Home owner and landlord certificates Repairs to washing machines, tumble driers, fridges, freezers, electric ovens & cookers, electric showers Based in Alvechurch
0121 445 0184 07977 487 999
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FREE ESTIMATING, FITTING & DELIVERY Huge choice of sizes, colours and styles 30 years’ experience in the flooring industry 01527 578804 sales@carpets-rugs-runners.co.uk 8 Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove B61 0AB www.carpets-rugs-runners.co.uk
Carpets
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Upholstery
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Tile & Stone Floors
Find us on Facebook: ‘RMB Services’
PHILL THE SWEEP
THE ALVECHURCH CHIMNEY SWEEP Professional chimney sweep Fully insured Certificate issued Open fires, wood burners, multi-fuel stoves, smoke draw testing, and power sweeping.
Is your car trying to tell you something?
Call for a quote on 07582 520075 or 0121 445 1010 l phillthesweep@yahoo.com
LOGS
2 yrs old, well seasoned & barn dried All cut small for log burners From £50 for large builder’s bag plus net of kindling FOC Coopers Hill, Alvechurch B48 7BX
Tel: 07948 044671
Free delivery anytime
07973 216283
A.S. PAINTING & DECORATING
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For all your decorating needs contact Alan on 07730 477564
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Cleanliness Assured l Free Quotes
Plumbing Plastering Tiling Carpentry Vinyl/Laminate Fitting Fully Insured
Phil Newton
t. 0800 310 2720 m. 07900 925 651
w. www.newtonbathrooms.co.uk e. sales@newtonbathrooms.co.uk
Nicky Robinson Aesthetics Aesthetic treatments with qualified medical professional - including anti-wrinkle treatments, fillers, Microneedling, dermaplanning and skin care
Kiln-dried hardwood logs from £45
u Fully insured u Certified by Derma Medical Member of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses Tel: 07843 047688 E: nrobinsonaesthetics@gmail.com Web: www.nraesthetics.co.uk Instagram: @Nickyrobinsonaesthetics u
Coopers Hill Farm, Alvechurch B48 7BX 0121 447 7313 logs@logco.co
C & M DECORATORS FATHER & SON u Interior & Exterior u 32 Years’ Experience u Free Quotes u Fully Insured
FRIENDLY FAMILY BUSINESS
7 days a week l
Based in Lickey End, Bromsgrove
Tel: 01527 576136 or 07850 380162 Free Quotes Over 20 years’ experience Fully qualified & fully insured Dedicated to customer satisfaction
No job too big or small, you just have to call!
l Insurance work l Stud walls l Re-skimming Plaster Boarding l Traditional Plastering l Ceilings l Patching work l Rendering l Coving l Screeding l Dry-lining l Painting l Tiling l Archways
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Contact Aaron: 0121 445 0383 / 07821 047 220
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24 hours a day
www.moveit-removals.com Freephone 0800 7734189
Tel: 01527 893250 Mob: 07973 358392
Lloyd Morgan 07789 622453 0121 445 6441 morganplumbingandheating.co.uk City & Guilds Fully Qualified Plumber
New Build, Extensions & Refurbishment Domestic, Commercial and Schoolwork CRB Checked & Fully Insured Shop Fronts & Glazing
Contact Paul on 07961 342304 / 0121 445 6236
e-mail:lickeycarpentry@hotmail.co.uk www.lickeycarpentry.co.uk 15 Cofton Lake Road, Birmingham B45 8PL
Fully insured
Free boxes, bubble wrap, tape and a packing service
Roofing, Floors, Kitchens, Doors, 1st & 2nd Fix
Dependable & Quality Service
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Kevin Smith ksinstallations@hotmail.co.uk
Tel: 0121 445 5636 Mobile: 07813 188806
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Plumbing & Heating Services Boiler Replacement Bathrooms Service & Repair Pipework Design & Installation Domestic, Commercial & Industrial
Worcester boiler accredited installer
Village Directory
J & D MASON – OPTICIANS –
Providing quality eyecare for over 40 years
QUALITY FLOORING. . . AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Find Us on Facebook: Transform Flooring
23 The Square, Alvechurch
Tel: 0121 457 8561 Mobile: 07712 62 63 42 Email: transformflooring@outlook.com
0121 447 8682
Address: 226 New Road, Rubery, Birmingham, B45 9JH
Deborah Glover
Beautiful Interior Doors Supplied and Installed
GHR Affil., Dip. Clin. Hyp.
Please visit the only door showroom in Redditch.
we now sell composite doors
www.acsinteriordoors.co.uk
One-to-one therapy
Unit 6, Britten House, The Old Needle Works, Britten Street, Redditch B97 6HD
Support with Anorexia/Bulimia/ Eating Disorders/OCD Call 07866 564 724 or visit www.lickeyhillshypnotherapy.co.uk
07592 303104 or 07910 289565
Protect your loved ones by making a Will today The Husband and Wife Team Fixing Your Home Dream 20 Years’ Experience
No Job Too Small
Carpentry – doors, skirting boards, architrave etc Painting and decorating l Erecting garden sheds Fencing and gates l Decking and sleepers Flooring – wood, laminate and vinyl Tiling l Kitchen fitting l Stair installation Flat pack furniture l General maintenance
Tel: 07842 512101
Email: mrandmrsmaintenanceteam@gmail.com Follow us on Facebook
Sue Jenden Associates Specialists in Wills, Trusts, inheritance tax planning, and administration of estates u Affiliate member of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners u Meetings in your own home u
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Based in Lickey
u
Fixed fees
Tel: 0121 445 5874 info@suejendenassociates.co.uk www.suejendenassociates.co.uk
This firm complies with the IPW Code of Conduct
Learn to drive with Andy Rees
CTB alarms ltd Your local alarm company
• Alarm Installations • Alarm repairs • Alarm system servicing • Upgrade/Modernisation of alarms
Andy Rees AA Trained Driving Instructor u
07736 396 414
New drivers u Confidence-building u Motorway experience sessions u Calm, friendly, highly professional and reliable
Email: a.rees74@outlook.com
Instagram:@AndyReesDriving
Recommended
Mike Nash - Qualified - Local - Friendly Mobile Computer Engineer – will visit your Home or Office n Virus & Spyware Removal n Wireless Broadband Set Up/Repair n All Computer Hardware Repair n Laptop Screen Replacement
Tel: 0121 445 2065 helpme@ontrackcomputers.co.uk
www.ontrackcomputers.co.uk
80 Hewell Rd, Barnt Green, B45 8NF
24/7 response • 25+ years experience
Texecom & Honeywell approved
t: 0121 445 2865
Company reg number: 06164927
e: sales@ctbalarms.co.uk w: www.ctbalarms.co.uk
Poppins Home & Office Cleaning Services special offers on all services!
Poppins offers One-Off, End-of-Tenancy and Regular Cleans, Oven & Carpet Cleaning, Painting & Gardening. We also provide Laundry, Dry Cleaning and Tailoring with a Pick-up and Drop-off service available
BASED AT THE LAUNDERETTE IN ALVECHURCH Office: 0121 445 0544 www.poppinsservices.com Mobile: 07891 899837 info@poppinsservices.com 1b George Road, Alvechurch B48 1PB FULLY INSURED Member of Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
& HETAS Stove Installer l l l l
Prompt, reliable and friendly service Cowls and Chimney Pots fitted Fully qualified and fully insured Guild certificates issued after every sweep
Call Eddie: 01527 962555 / 07712 220671 www.elitesweeps.co.uk
D.J.SCRIVEN ROOFING CONTRACTOR
Established in 2013 l Over 15 years experience in the construction industry
DAVID JAMES SCRIVEN - ROOFER
TILE / SLATE / LEAD / TRADITIONAL ROOFING NO JOB TOO SMALL - FREE QUOTATIONS 160 SIR HILTONS ROAD, BIRMINGHAM B31 3NW
TEL: 0121 291 9452
Our areas of expertise include New Builds, Extensions, Renovations & General Building Work Wayside, Redditch Road, Hopwood, B48 7TL T: 07795 681 182 E: Alan.jones49@yahoo.co.uk
07845 268 841 07841 684 547
Email: scrivenroofing@gmail.com Facebook: DJScriven Roofing Contractor
T.S. Electrical Domestic & Commercial Property/Landlord Inspections Full & Part Rewires l Fuse Board Replacements Alarms Fitted l PAT Testing l Part P Certified
www.ajbuildingcontractors.co.uk
P Pledger E Electrical S Services n
01564 823882 / 07974 829794 Lilley Green Road, Alvechurch
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LOCAL ELECTRICIAN
Part P Registered Installer
Installations n Maintenance & Repair Inspection & Testings n Reliable Service
Call Dean: 0121 445 1601 or 07891 498909
Oakalls Village
Landmark tree lost T
Sarah Rees reports from the Oakalls and Parklands.
he beautiful horse chestnut tree that used to stand on Davenham Road has had to be cut down after a large branch fell off in August. The tree was immediately inspected by Bromsgrove District Council and was found to be heavily diseased and in very poor condition. It had been “crown pruned” in the past to give it every chance of survival but sadly its condition had deteriorated to a stage where there were no viable pruning options available to allow its retention, and it was felled shortly after the inspection. Coun Caroline Spencer would like to reassure residents that two or three replacement trees are to be planted during the autumn/winter
The site where the tree stood
period to mitigate the loss of the horse chestnut tree.
FESTIVE DIARY DATE The ninth Oakalls and Parklands Christmas Community Carols event will take place on Sunday December 22, starting at 6.30pm on the open grassed area by the notice board and
Trianon Road. Refreshments will be available including Tardebigge Cider and mince pies. Father Christmas will arrive at around 7pm. Please contact me with your news, views and concerns about any aspect of life on the estate. Email: oakalls@villageonline.co.uk
Help protect hedgehog population
A juvenile hedgehog from Cirencester Close, currently in the care of Willows Hedgehog Rescue
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Despite a worrying national decline in the hedgehog population, The Oakalls is lucky to be home to a number of these spiky little creatures. The first litters of hoglets are generally born in May to July, with the second litters born August to September. This means you may find juvenile hedgehogs in your garden at the moment. The autumn and winter months are the most important for hedgehogs to find food, so that they put on enough weight before hibernation from late December until late March. If you think you may have hedgehogs in your garden please put out food for them, such as tinned dog or cat food (not fishbased) and crushed dog or cat biscuits. Specialist hedgehog food can be bought from wildlife food suppliers. Never feed hedgehogs milk as it can cause diarrhoea; instead provide plain, fresh water in a shallow bowl. If you see a hedgehog in your garden during daylight hours it is probably in trouble and may require professional care. Call Willows Hedgehog Rescue in Bromsgrove on 07518 354408 and they will assess the hedgehog and keep it in their hospital if it requires medical attention. You will always be given the first option to have the hedgehog back to re-release in your garden at an appropriate time, once it has been given the all-clear by staff at Willows.
at
Spiced Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato & Lentil Soup (v) (vg) (gf) Creamy Garlic Field Mushrooms on Toasted Brioche with Dressed Rocket Leaves (v) (vgo) (gfo) Prawn, Salmon & Crayfish Cocktail with Thousand Island Sauce Chicken Breast filled with a Sage & Onion Seasoning wrapped in Bacon with a rich Gravy Roast Sirloin of British Beef (served pink) with Yorkshire Pudding & a classic Chasseur Sauce Grilled Salmon served on a Spring Onion Mash, with a Fennel & White Wine Cream Sauce (gf) Jackfruit, Red Onion, Apricot & Chick Pea Tagine with Moroccan Cous Cous (v) (vg) (gfo) Chef’s selection of Seasonal Vegetables & Potatoes Hillscourt Mini Christmas Trio (Raspberry Crème Brûlée – Mincemeat, Cherry & Almond Slice – Vanilla Ice Cream) Baileys Chocolate Glazed Cheesecake, Orange Fruit Purée Selection of Cheese & Biscuits with Grapes & Chutney Freshly Brewed Coffee or Tea & Chocolates
For enquiries and bookings, contact the Conference & Banqueting Office Tel: 0121 457 6100 | Email: info@hillscourt.co.uk (v) – vegetarian, (vg) – vegan, (gf ) – gluten-free, (vgo) – vegan option, (gfo) – gluten-free option
Dates available: December 13, 14, 20, and 21 Price: £29.50 per person (includes Meal & Disco till 1am) Special Deal: Bed & Breakfast for party guests at £35 for a single and £60 for a double room
green fingers
Village Events
Photography by Keith Woolford
Rowney Green Horticultural Society was delighted with the success of its annual show. The winners in the different classes were awarded with their prizes by BBC Midlands presenter Satnam Rana, who took a great interest in all the exhibits and spoke to most of the exhibitors. The society would like to thank all members and helpers who worked extremely hard on the day as well as baking cakes for the event.
Satnam Rana with all the cup winners
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Above: the children who won first prize in the different classes. The society would like to congratulate all the children who entered. Below: The committee and helpers outside the village hall.
The Village
October 2019
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Village Events
Made in Finstall Finstall Village Show provided its usual colourful array of homegrown vegetables and flowers, baking and crafts, plus live music, stalls and games, and a produce auction. Photography by Olivia Reeves
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October 2019
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sunshine
Village Events
Tardebigge Fair & Show basked in sunshine, with visitors enjoying stalls, games, music, displays, a produce show and auction – and raising £4,100 for St Bartholomew’s Church.
Royal Enfield Owners’ Club
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October 2019
show!
Photo/Jean Collins
Right: Saxophonist Terry Mountney. Above: Alvechurch Community Choir. Below: Children’s crafts.
Guide Dogs fundraisers The Village
October 2019
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Village Weather
Dry start to autumn
S
Alvechurch amateur weatherman Phil Thomas records the changes.
eptember started off changeable, with a little rain and some sunshine. The middle of the month was pleasantly warm with a mean maximum temperature of 19.1C – that’s 0.9C above the local mean. But the nights were quite chilly with an average minimum temperature of 8.9C; 0.7C below average. Rainfall to the 20th was very low, only 10.6mm or 18% of the mean. The weather looked set to change as October begins, becoming much cooler and more unsettled.
September 2019 (to the 20th) Mean Max 19.1C 0.9 above average Mean Min 8.9C 0.7 above average Mean 14.0C 0.1 above average Rainfall 14.0mm 18% of average Sunshine 116.1 hrs 93% of average Temperatures were slightly above normal in August. The mean of 17.3C was 0.8C above the local mean. There was one very hot day on the 25th with a screen maximum of 29.9C. Rainfall was again above normal for Alvechurch with 91.2mm, 175% of the 30-year mean. Above-average temperatures and rainfall fit in with the trend for a milder and wetter summer period locally.
August 2019 Mean Max 22.0C 0.7 above average Mean Min 12.6C 0.9 above average Mean 17.3C 0.8 above average Rainfall 91.2mm 175% of average Sunshine 160.2 hrs 107% of average. Outlook Confidence in the forecast remains low into October. However, early in the month there may be some fine
and settled weather with bright days, but mist, fog and increasingly some frost overnight. Wind and rain may spread across the Midlands as we go through the month. Temperatures are likely to be close to the average. Pretty much what should be expected at this time of year.
Summer Averages 2019 (June, July, August) Mean Max 21.0C 0.4 above average Mean Min 11.8C 0.6 above average Mean 16.5C 0.5 above average Rainfall 320.9mm 186% of average Sunshine 434.6 hrs 98% of average
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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Helping you to see the wood for the trees
We take a plain speaking approach to financial planning so that your financial goals are clear and easy to understand.
T 0121 445 5694 W www.ppm-ifa.co.uk E martinpryor@ppm-ifa.co.uk Pryor Portfolio is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 511176 www.fca.org.uk The Farmhouse, Pumphouse Lane, Blackwell, B60 1QN
Village Finance
Advertisement feature
Balancing the school fees equation Private school fees are rising faster than the rate of inflation, creating financial challenges for parents, says Martin Pryor.
P
rivate school fees rose by 3.7% from 2018 to 2019, according to the latest figures from the Independent Schools Council (ISC). This isn’t a one-off hike. School fees have risen by an average of 3.9% a year since 2010. This is a much faster rate than the rate of inflation as measured by the consumer price index, which was only 2.1% for April 2019. The average independent day school charged £14,289 a year in 2018, according to the ICS. Of course, fees vary according to location and facilities. However, escalating fees do not appear to be putting parents off, with a record number of pupils now attending independent schools. The question for parents is how to fund these rising fees. Some families may be able to meet the costs out of earnings, but many parents will need to build up reserves. When planning to accumulate a school fees fund: 1. Plan ahead The sooner you start, the better chance you have of building a decent nest egg by whatever age you wish your children to enter the private system. Last-minute decisions may restrict your choices. 2. Make the most of tax-breaks The ISA allowance enables each parent to save up to £20,000 a year, in a fund that is free of UK tax on investment income and capital gains.
ISAs can be used to build both cash savings and equity investments. 3. Look at the range of investment options If you have a savings horizon of 10 years or more, you might want to consider equity investments. But remember you will have to pay the fees, regardless of stock market fluctuations. To maximise returns and reduce risk, aim for a diversified portfolio of equities and bonds and keep charges to a minimum. 4. Get the rest of the family involved Grandparents – and other relatives – might be willing to contribute. Regular payments towards school fees (or a savings fund) might qualify for exempt treatment and reduce their eventual inheritance tax liability. Any one-off lump sum payments would normally be disregarded, providing the donor survives for a further seven years. 5. Ask about bursaries and scholarships Financial assistance with fees might be available. The ISC says the number of pupils being helped by these schemes has risen by 3% over the past year. 6. Remember to factor in insurance If you were too ill to work, for example, how would you continue paying school fees? An income protection insurance policy may help ensure your child has continuity of education.
FACTOR IN OTHER COSTS
When building a savings fund, factor in future fee increases and don’t forget to include ‘extras’ such as music lessons, school trips and sport activities. Of course, parents whose children attend state schools may still want to consider these savings tips to help meet future higher education costs, which could include living costs as well as tuition fees. The value of your investments, and the income from them, can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Investing in shares should be regarded as a long-term investment and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances. The FCA does not regulate tax advice. Levels and bases of taxation and tax reliefs are subject to change and their value depends on individual circumstances. Tax laws can change. n Contact Pryor Portfolio Management for more information: Tel: 07961 162818 martinpryor@ppm-ifa.co.uk www.ppm-ifa.co.uk The Village
October 2019
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Village Stargazing
O
Amateur astronomer Brian Watkiss peers into the Village night sky.
ctober, and we know winter is on the way as the nights start earlier and the temperatures tend to drop. We still just about have Jupiter in our skies, probably being the first object you can see as soon as the Sun is gone. Look for it just to the left of the glow of the sunset from just after 7pm; it’s not very high but should be obvious, being so bright. It will be gone by about half past eight. A very thin crescent Moon is close by on the 3rd, making quite a spectacle. Saturn is with us too, although being nearly twice as far away as the giant planet, is not so bright but still
Deneb Vega
Milky Way
Altair
Jupiter Saturn
Bright stars on show
quite clear. Look for it from about years away. It is a very hot, young 7:30, to the left of Jupiter, practically star, thought to be one tenth the age in the south. It sets much later and of our Sun. It is also spinning round you should be able to see it till about very quickly, so quickly in fact that if ten. The Moon is just below it on the it were to spin even slightly faster it 5th and being at first quarter (when would tear itself apart. Let’s hope it we see half a Moon), should again calms down with age! make a splendid sight. Left from Vega, at a similar height, When the sky is properly dark, is a third bright star, Deneb. This star about eight o’clock or so, above is one of the most distant you can see Saturn and a bit more than twice as high you should find The Moon and Jupiter quite a bright star, Altair. This is one of the nearest stars in the sky although its light has still taken more than sixteen years to get here. It sits at the top of a faint triangle of stars making up the constellation of Aquila, the Eagle. This isn’t very distinct so you may have to allow a little time to pick it out. Now, looking in the same direction, find a really bright star high in the sky, nearly overhead. This is the famous Vega, one of the brightest stars in the sky. It too, is relatively close, being a mere twenty-five light
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at around two and a half thousand light years away, so it must be very big indeed – and indeed, it has been calculated to be about a hundred times the size of our Sun. It sits at the top of a cross of stars making up Cygnus, the Swan. This is easier to spot than Aquila. At this point you need to find the dark heart of Alvechurch – no, not the pub at the boatyard but somewhere with as little light pollution as possible. This should enable you to see a misty patch running down the sky through Cygnus. This is the light from the billions of stars that make up our own galaxy and you can see how it got the name, the Milky Way, with its very centre just below Cygnus. Look for it next time you’re out in the dark and don’t forget to keep an eye out for the Orionids. No, not there – it’s a meteor shower that peaks on the 22nd. Happy skywatching.
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Village Country Diary Mary Green gives a guide to different types of grain.
Poppies in barley
O
n a recent walk, someone asked me if I could write about different types of corn as they weren’t sure what was what. So, here goes! “Arable” crops include any plants grown from seed in fields, but the ones we notice most are the cereals or corn crops. The ground is worked and ploughed each year, the seed sown, and the crop harvested when ripe. This is distinct from “pastoral” farming, which involves permanent vegetation (grass and flowers) as grazed pasture or hay meadows or a combination of both. Around here cereal growing is not a big feature: most of our land is pastoral. But there are significant patches, especially on the higher plateau above Alvechurch towards Tardebigge and some of the low-lying fields around Alvechurch. Most crops are wheat, barley or oilseed rape, with occasional oats. Many farmers rotate their crops, so fields are different each year. It’s been a difficult year for arable farmers: the wet and windy August weather delayed harvest but at least the late August dry and hot spell meant they could get most in. Wheat is a solid-looking plant with
Hedge fields full of Empty baby harvest birds after
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daily br upright ears of grain and no “awns” or hairs on them. The young leaves and stems are slightly bluish-green, then they turn golden. It needs fertile soil and a good climate. It is the main grain used in bread-making, and
many other foods. It is bred to be high in gluten and carbohydrate to make modern light bread. Older types of wheat, like spelt or einkorn, have lower levels of gluten and have more fibre. They grow well in our climate, are healthier to eat, and make a more solid bread. Before the Second World War we imported much of our bread-making flour from America and Canada because they could produce highgluten flour. The war was a wake-up call and manufacturers developed a new process that enabled them to make all that lovely post-war white sliced bread out of British grown wheat, so since then we have had big commercial wheat farms in England, especially in the east. In more recent times people have realised that high-carbohydrate, high-gluten bread is not that good for us and have gone back to using the
Young barley
Oats
br ead
whole grain, mixed grains and older types of wheat, especially spelt. Barley is much used for cattle feed, though in past centuries poorer people used it for bread. It was used in soups and broths and to make the original “barley water� which was thought good for invalids. It is also the grain for beer and whisky. Nowadays it is being used in bread again, usually mixed with wheat or rye. It has less gluten and is quite high in fibre. It is a more silky-looking plant with long awns on the ears of grain, often called a beard, which wave in the wind as it ripens. It is a pale sharp green which becomes pale gold. The ears droop when ripe. It grows in more inhospitable ground than wheat, so you find it in stonier and hillier areas. As you would expect, it is especially grown around brewing and distilling areas. The Heb-
Wild barley
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Village Country Diary
Wheat field with flowery edge continued from previous page
Wild oats
Maize
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ridean island of Islay, which has nine whisky distilleries, is covered with waving barley fields. They say the best whisky is made from barley grown on the island and one distillery uses barley only from its own farms, though many import it. This shows how seriously the crop is taken there, as it used to be here. A barleycorn – an individual grain of barley – was used as an ancient measurement. There is an old song and old stories about “John Barleycorn”, the personification of barley, describing how he grows up and grows a beard and then is cruelly cut down and beaten, but later cheers us up in a “nut brown bowl.” The words beer, barley and beard have similar roots in old English. Oats are even more able to grow in poor soil, on hills and in colder climates, so are traditionally associated with Scotland where is it the most common cereal. Oats are the ones with clusters of individual seeds hanging in loose bunches on the stalks, rather than the tightly packed “ears” that wheat and barley have. It has been a traditional food for horses and is the usual grain to make porridge. Oats have low gluten, so aren’t suitable for bread, but oatcakes were a traditional staple food. Modern Scottish oatcakes are like a biscuit, but the older ones were thicker and cooked on a griddle. Staffordshire oatcakes are a batter cooked like pancakes. The biggest use, though, is in porridge, which is properly made from oatmeal, not oat flakes. Oats are now thought to be a healthier grain to eat so have become popular again, especially as porridge but also mixed into wheat bread and as oatcakes. So they are being grown more, having begun to decline when we stopped using horses for transport. The dictionary of Dr Johnson, in the 18th century, defined oats as a food for horses in England but for men in Scotland.
June wheat with poppies
Rye, which is a bit like a darker version of barley, is not much grown in this country. It is lower in gluten and produces a dark, close-textured bread with a nutty flavour. Maize, or sweet corn, is grown around here and is mostly used as cattle food. It is also grown for human use as a vegetable, corn on the cob. In some countries maize flour (including polenta and cornflour) is used much more. It needs long hot summers. Our climate is not reliably good enough for it, but global warming may mean it becomes more common. It is unmistakable, very tall and with big leaves and the familiar cobs of corn in a sheath with a tassel at the end. The grain is very high in carbohydrates but not gluten, so is more used for porridges and tortillas than for bread. It has been introduced all over the world but unfortunately at the expense of other crops. It fills people up but is not very nutritious. All these grains, wheat, oats, barley, maize and rye, and others little used here, are descended from wild grasses. The grains from grasses were part of our food when we were hunter-gatherers, along with other seeds, pulses, roots and fruits making up a very varied diet. Over the centuries and millennia, the grasses were developed to have bigger and
more carbohydrate-rich grains, and farming them changed the nature of human life. The wild varieties are still around. Wild barley is quite common, even growing on city streets and waste ground. There was a lot along Station Road in Alvechurch till it was cut down recently. Wild oats are well known to grow among cultivated corn crops: you can often see them around the edge of a wheat field. “Sowing your wild oats� is a traditional phrase for young men being promiscuous and providing unexpected babies, like wild oats providing rogue grains among the wheat. All grasses and cultivated grains are
wind-pollinated, which is why they don’t have to have bright-coloured flowers to attract insects. In past centuries, our arable fields had their own wildlife. There are flowers that like to grow in soil that is ploughed up each year, so they are called arable wildflowers. They include poppies, cornflowers, corncockle, corn marigold, camomile, wild radish, heartsease and scarlet pimpernel. Poppies grow in the body of the corn, camomile typically round the edges, heartsease often in the stubble after harvest. Nowadays almost all corn fields are heavily weed-killed and these
continues overleaf
Oat field with arable-edge flowers The Village
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Village Country Diary continued from previous page flowers have gone. Pesticides are also used so there are no insects. If you see corn grown in the old-fashioned way, as on some organic or environmental stewardship farms, it is stunningly different. There are flowers, insects and birds. Birds that love arable land include lapwings, skylarks and yellow-hammers. Unfortunately the way the crops are grown nowadays has made them inhospitable to birds. They need over-winter stubble, insects or other plant seeds to feed on, and to be able to nest. Most arable land now is empty of these birds, though some wildlife-friendly corn fields are now being planted with swathes of wild flowers around the edges or in patches. I notice when I go to other places where fields are more wildlife friendly that I can hear the familiar skylarks again. After harvest the straw is used. It has little food value, not to be confused with hay which is very nutritious for animals. It’s used for animal bedding mostly, but it used to be a thatching material, either as long-straw or the shorter wheat-reed. It can even be used to build houses! The fields are left empty and you can see how little else has grown there. Nationally 30 per cent of our farmland is arable. Annual cultivation releases carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming, and gradually depletes the soil. Pesticides and herbicides are used and artificial fertilisers compensate for loss of soil nutrition but in the long run make it worse. Some agriculturalists are experimenting with deep-rooted perennial types of grains which would help lock in carbon and maintain soil health. Organic cultivation is possible. There are also other seeds and pulses which may be more sustainable. But the harvest of grain and the idea of bread being the staff of life has become so locked into our culture and even our religion (see the stained glass windows on the front of last month’s Village!) that it is very difficult to make changes to this aspect of our farming. I wrote this poem after my recent holiday. I lived near the sea for most of my childhood and love to get back to it.
Ripe barley
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Young wheat
The sea
I am standing in the sea, up to my knees Sun hot on my sunhat, toes sinking in sand Trousers rolled up like a seaside postcard Away from home but feeling this is home. Eliot said the river is within us, the sea is all around us But I think it’s the sea that’s within us Like the moon her sister who circles us From the womb-pool through the first cry To the salt of love and the tears of death. Her names are songs: the ocean, the deep The briny, the whale’s length, Davy Jones’ locker The great grey widow-maker. In the stories, seals become men and women, Mermaids hold up their fishy babies, People live in the belly of whales or Neptune’s kingdom Rediscovering the gills they had lost, breathing water. We have gone to her for magic, for healing, For food for the brain, to make ourselves clean. She has embraced us but the sting in her salty tail Is that she can drown us with too much love. What have we given her as offerings? Thick oil to clog her beaches, poisons in her fish Millions of millions of tiny gifts of plastic Which are now also in us and will not wash away.
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Village Gardening Hannah Genders creates an al fresco cooking area.
Tomato San Marzano
S
teve and Maggie Busfield contacted me about their garden in Hanbury – they had done all the work on the house but didn’t like the garden and couldn’t envisage how to change it. Their style in the house was very modern and the garden needed to be an extension of this, and they were particularly keen on having an area to cook and eat outside. The garden forms an L-shape around the house. The modern kitchen was an extension on the back of the house and, as often happens, the extension had eaten into the
a modern kitche garden, so the garden wall was very close to the back door and made the patio area outside the door very tight and small. There was also an issue with the walls as they did not have proper drainage behind them and so were swelling and cracking. Steve and Maggie also wanted a summerhouse so they could enjoy Panicles of grass
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the garden space all year. In a smaller garden like this, it is important that the summerhouse structure does not impose itself on the garden, so a corner one seemed the ideal solution. I started the design as I always do, with hand-sketching the areas to see what feels right, and straight away the back-door area needed
pushing out to create space outside the kitchen and widen the steps up to the main area of the garden. This also allowed the planted borders to be viewed from the kitchen table instead of just looking out at a garden wall. The main patio area was then transferred to the higher area of the garden, which is the sunniest part. The summerhouse was designed in the corner, as I mentioned earlier, and went in while the hard landscape work went on. The outdoor kitchen is to the right of the summerhouse, complete with pizza oven, cooking area and a high table to sit at. There was only one area where this garden was overlooked and we sorted this with some lovely pleached hornbeams, but during the build we had to move them as the neighbours were not happy with the shade they created. We moved two of them and they now create a divide between the summerhouse and where the greenhouse will eventually go, and do the same job as the
Whole garden
n garden
Summerhouse
Aster × frikartii ‘Mönch’
archway would have done in the design. In fact, the summerhouse creates perfect privacy in this area of the garden now, so I needn’t have worried. Although the design is very modern with clean, sharp lines, I was very keen to get plenty of soft, exuberant planting in as well, using grasses and perennials to create a modern effect but still make it a garden which is good for wildlife. I used the ornamental grass Panicum virgatum ‘Rehbraun’ – with its soft panicles and autumn colour it is an excellent grass for this, and looks wonderful with Vebena bonariensis and Aster × frikartii ‘Mönch’ with its bright purple daisy flowers which go on well into the autumn. The planting fills the beds and spills onto the modern paving, giving a softening effect. Steve was very keen to have a go at growing some vegetables in the beds to the left of the sumcontinues on page 52 The Village
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Village Gardening continued from previous page merhouse. He has done really well at this and enjoyed it so much he wants to put in a small greenhouse next spring. This summer he’s grown the San Marzano tomato outdoors; this Italian tomato is said to be the best for pizza sauces and passata as it has few seeds and excellent flavour. Steve and Maggie have also, at my suggestion, grown the yellow courgettes and are just now harvesting a white-flowered runner bean. We created a herb bed at the top of the low wall and the thyme is growing particularly well. This autumn we are planting some soft fruit; raspberries, both autumn and summer, which should fruit continuously from June to late October, and a few currants grown as cordons as the space is tight, but the area where we are planting these has plenty of sun. Looking from the house, the right-hand side of the garden beyond the lawn was the perfect place to introduce a few small trees and some shrubs for more colour and interest throughout the year. The rowan tree Sorbus ‘Cashmiriana’ is a small tree, only reaching three to four metres in about 20 years, and has pearllike creamy white berries throughout the autumn. We also planted the shrub Cornus alternifolia ‘Argentea’, a plant which crosses over between a small tree and large shrub. It reaches a height of two and a half metres, but looks delicate with its long, variegated leaves, and its growth habit is spreading. This bed is shadier than the rest of the garden, and to give it a “woodland� feel we planted up with perennials like white foxgloves, Anemone x hybrida ‘Honorine Jobert’ and English bluebell bulbs to naturalise underneath. All these projects are created and built as part of a team, and here I must say a massive thank you to Jeff Annand and his guys for doing such a superb job on the hard landscaping – it was pretty much perfect. Maggie and Steve were great clients too, and we still see each other as I’m planting a few more bulbs
Clary sage
and soft fruit this autumn. To finish I thought I would quote what the garden means to them: “We love our garden now, especially the outdoor cooking area which is great for friends and family parties. The garden room means we are outside all year enjoying time together and the tranquillity.� Hard landscaping: Jeff Annand Contracting Limited
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Village Sport
Vital win after cup exit Alvechurch FC bounce back with unexpected league victory at faraway Leiston.
A
lvechurch are dusting themselves off after being knocked out of two cup competitions in a week. The first defeat was against lower-ranked Wolverhampton Sports SC in the JW Hunt Cup, and came via the agony of a penalty shootout. A competitive Wolverhampton side opened the scoring, but a spectacular 30-yard effort from Rahis Nabib followed by a mazy run and finish from Javia Roberts gave Church the lead. However, an equaliser from the last kick of the match ensured the tie went to penalties, which Alvechurch lost 5–4. A few days later the team travelled to Derbyshire to face Belper in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup. In a game of few chances, a nil-nil draw and a replay at Lye Meadow looked the most likely outcome, but a rare Belper attack in the 87th minute saw the home side take the lead and left the visitors too little time to find an equaliser. AFC are still in the running for three other cup competitions: in the Southern League Challenge Cup, they have been drawn away to local rivals Redditch United on October 1, then they entertain AFC Wulfrunians in the Birmingham Senior Cup on October 8. Meanwhile in the league, after a couple of losses to Hednesford and Redditch, Church proved their credentials in adversity by bagging all three points in a tricky away fixture to Leiston. The club is based on the east Suffolk coast, 178 miles and a 3.5-hour drive from Alvechurch. The coach was scheduled to leave at 9am for a 3pm kick off, but did not set off until 9.20. On the A14 there were major road works and detours, and having got through the
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Action from the 2–2 draw against Peterborough Sports (Photo/ Ian Macvie)
tailbacks the coach driver by law had to have a 30-minute break – so the coach arrived at Leiston at 3.20, for the players to get changed and have the shortest of warm-ups before the game kicked off, having been on the coach for six hours. Such a journey made the 2–1 win even more remarkable.
l Manager Darren Byfield is certainly prepared to give youth a chance. Following an injury to regular goal keeper Lloyd Ransome, he signed 17-year-old Josh Bradley-Hurst from Birmingham City Under-18s – he has played a couple of games for Church and produced two fine performances with a couple of excellent saves, proving why Birmingham City rate him so highly. Another teenager to make his first team debut is full time student George Clarke. The 16-year-old produced a man of the match performance away at Wolverhampton Sports SC in the JW Hunt Cup. George had played for the Alvechurch U18s the previous night and proved himself ready to step up to the first team if required. l The management and supporters are delighted to see the return of
Zack Foster to Lye Meadow. Having played an integral part in the club’s success over the past four seasons, he followed previous manager Ian Long to Stourbridge – but has decided to return and play under new manager Darren Byfield. Also joining the club is left-sided midfielder Rhys Mason. The sharp, pacey direct player had a spell at Solihull Moors but has more recently been playing abroad.
l For more info or sponsorship enquiries, please contact Trevor Ball at saintsarehot2@btinternet.com or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/ alvechurch Follow the club on Twitter @Alvechurch1st
fixtures (League unless stated) Tues Oct 1 Redditch United (A) 7.45pm Southern League Challenge Cup Sat Oct 5 Tamworth (A) 3pm Tues Oct 8 AFC Wulfrunians (H) 7.45pm Birmingham Senior Cup Sat Oct 12 Needham Market (A) 3pm Tues Oct 15 Stourbridge (H) 7.45pm Sat Oct 19 St Ives (H) 3pm Sat Oct 26 FA Trophy 1st Qualifying Round Sat Nov 2 Coalville Town (H) 3pm
Village Art
Photography as art I
Bromsgrove artist Richard McIlwraith hopes to inspire readers with his travel pictures.
f they are strong enough pieces of art, the images within this article will snag your attention and make you ask, “where is that?” The photographs were taken this summer on an off-the-beaten-track driving adventure through the south-west USA. If you are considering a trip across the pond and would like to witness some of the less wellknown scenery of the geologically diverse landscape of the States, please contact my wife and me through richard@galleryart61.com No charge; just, hopefully, some wise advice from a couple who visit North America’s National and State Parks as frequently as possible. My wife is busy planning trip 34 as I write! There’s plenty of guidance available out there in books and on the internet for travellers to Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone and so on but, for value-formoney glamping in Kanab,
for discovering dinosaur bones fused into Utah rock and for descending 800 feet into King’s Palace in North America’s most extensive cavern system, information is harder to find. Do get in touch – we are happy to help our fellow villagers. So, is this art? Or just a series of holiday snaps? I’d say that the power of the image gives the answer to that question. If you’ve found yourself glued to the pictures and only skim-read the text then the image has functioned, perhaps, as art. As ever, I hope you are finding your creative outlet and allowing it to expand your outlook and horizons. Perhaps photography may be that outlet. . . Please get in touch if you’d like me to write about an art event near you: richard@galleryart61.com www.galleryart61.com Clockwise from left: Bryce Canyon, White Sands National Park, Carlsbad Caverns, Joshua Tree National Park.
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2019/20 Season
St Laurence Church, Alvechurch B48 7SB Sat 2 November, 7.30pm £16 /£15 in advance
Dvořák Serenade Nic Fallowfield, conductor
Sat 7 December, 7.30pm £13 /£12 in advance
Bold as Brass
Holborne Brass Ensemble Christmas songs and carols, jazz standards and classical favourites
Sat 7 March, 7.30pm £20 /£19 in advance
An Audience with Craig Ogden The celebrated guitarist plays well-known favourites.
Sat 4 April, 7.30pm £16 /£15 in advance
Mozart and His Mentors includes Horn Concerto (soloist James Topp) Nic Fallowfield, conductor
Sat 9 May, 7.30pm £13 /£12 in advance
Schubert’s Quintet Tedesca Quartet and guest Tim Gill (cello)
Sat 4 July, 7.30pm
£16 /£15 in advance
Independence Day Nic Fallowfield, conductor
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Tickets: In advance from Gin & Pickles, The Square, Alvechurch or online at www.midlandsinfonia.co.uk Book all 6 concerts and save £15 more! 0121 447 7040 midlandsinfonia@gmail.com October 2019
Village What’s On EVENTS An autumn Community Litter Pick held by Alvechurch Village Society takes place on Sun Oct 13 from 10.30am–12.30pm, aiming to clear roads, hedges and verges in and around Alvechurch. Meet outside The Lounge; all equipment, instructions and directions provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult – all children taking part will receive a certificate. For more info contact Jenny Bailey on 07938 874925, or just turn up on the day. BROMSGROVE NSPCC hosts a fundraising Ploughman’s Lunch & Cake followed by a screening of the new Downton Abbey film at Artrix in Bromsgrove on Thurs Oct 31. Lunch at 12.30pm, film at 2pm. Please pre-book and pay via the Artrix on 01527 577330 or www.artrix.co.uk A Comedy Evening is on at Rowney Green Village Hall on Saturday 19th October, starring Mrs Barbara Nice and friends. Bar opens at 7pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets £12 – call or text Sue on 07715 951012 or Maria-Elena on 07961 320291. Fundraising for Women’s Aid. The Eco-Church movement at St Michael’s (Cofton) and St Andrew’s (Barnt Green) holds two evening meetings open to all. On Tues Oct 15 at 7.30pm. St Andrew’s will show the film Before the Flood, featuring Leonardo DiCaprio’s journey as a UN Messenger of Peace, witnessing climate change first-hand. On Mon Oct 28 at 8pm, the Parish Centre behind St Andrew’s holds An Evening with Tony Miller – county council cabinet member with responsibility for the environment. A quiz takes place on Sat Oct 5 at Barnt Green Parish Centre at 7.30. Join a team or come as a team. Help Maggie raise funds for Medic Malawi. More info from rosemaryaveyard@hotmail.co.uk TABLE TOP SALE at the Trinity Centre, Old Birmingham Road, Lickey on Sat Oct 19 from 9–11am. Drinks, bacon and sausage sandwiches available. To book a table @ £10 each, call Alison on 0121 445 6170. Super Shoebox Saturday: Oct 19 at Barnt Green Parish Centre, 9am–3pm. Fill a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child, bring any donations and join the packing party. Contact rosemaryaveyard@hotmail. co.uk for more information. St Godwald’s Community Cafe meets every other Friday (the next one is Oct 11)
what’s on guide from 10.30am–12.30pm at St Godwald’s Room adjacent to the Church Hall, Finstall Road, Bromsgrove. Home made scones, cake, tea/coffee available. Come and have a chatter, play board games, jigsaws etc. ‘Quiet Space’ at Alvechurch Baptist Church takes place each Tues and Fri from 10am–12 noon. The church is open as a quiet space, with “welcomers” on hand to help if required, for anyone who would like to come and find peace and rest for as long as they need. For more info, call Revd Fiona Lee on 0121 447 7369, email revfiona@alvechurchbaptist.org.uk or visit www.alvechurchbaptist.org.uk MESSY CHURCH For All! This event is held on the third Sunday most months at Catshill Methodist Church from 3.45pm, to include games, singing, crafts and a story on a Bible-based theme, and simple meal around 5.30pm. Free entry and a warm welcome for all. More info from James Knott on 07968 110 631. Alpha course – you’re invited to #tryalpha, explore life, faith and meaning. Weds evenings starting Sep 25, 7.30pm @ St Andrew’s Church, Barnt Green. Register your interest at www.bgb.org.uk/alpha
MUSIC The Arrow Vale Singers perform Songs from the Shows at the Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch on Sat Nov 9. Bar opens 6.45pm, concert starts 7.30pm. Tickets £8 on the door or from the Ark office (Mon–Fri 9am–2pm), via email on thearkalvechurch@yahoo.co.uk or Ian on 0121 447 7955. More info at www. thearkalvechurch.co.uk/specialevents BROMSGROVE CONCERTS presents the Navarra String Quartet on Fri Oct 11 at Bromsgrove’s Artrix, at 7.30pm. Tickets need to be bought directly from Bromsgrove Concerts, either online, by phone, by post or on the night – full details of ticket prices and subscriptions are at www.bromsgrove-concerts.org.uk Sauce City Jazz Band return to the Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch, for an evening of great trad jazz on Fri Oct 11. Bar opens at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets £10 on the door – all proceeds to the Church Restoration Fund. More info from Margaret on 0121 445 1854.
Alvechurch Acoustic Roots’ 10th season continues on Fri Nov 1 at Alvechurch Social Club. Doors open 7.45pm. Only £5 (£4 concessions) to see some of the very best live music and performance in the area. Keep Music and Performance Live! Alvechurch Community Choir meets at 7.30pm on Mondays in Alvechurch Village Hall, though on the 2nd Monday each month they move to Alvechurch Social Club. The choir is an open access singing group; new members of all abilities are welcome – just go along. 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. 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. Riggers, the four-piece covers band, perform at Tower of Song in Kings Norton on Fri Oct 11 from 9pm. Info from Pete on 0121 445 4022. Blackwell Concert Band and Training Band is open to all brass and woodwind players of all abilities. To learn more about the band and find details of upcoming events, email blackwellconcertband98@ gmail.com or visit www.blackwellconcertband.co.uk You will also find information on how to book the band. Singing to Beat, the group for people with dementia, Parkinson’s, MS and other neuro conditions (plus carers, friends and relatives) is now at the Longbridge Retirement Village (B45 8TD) every Weds from 11.30am–1pm. Cost £3.50 for those from outside the village – all welcome. No previous experience necessary. More info from Ruth on 0121 453 6952. Bromsgrove Choral Society meets each Monday for rehearsals at 7.30pm in St John’s Middle School (Watt Close, Bromsgrove, B61 7DH). New members very welcome, please ring Eileen Kirby on 01527 871237. Barnt Green Choral Society rehearses each Mon at 7.45pm at St Andrew’s
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continued from previous page Church Hall, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green. New members always welcome to this non-audition society. This season’s three concerts are a Christmas Carol Concert on Dec 7, the main Spring concert on March 28 and the summer concert on June 20. More details from Fiona Brown on 0121 445 5513 or visit www.barntgreenchoralsociety.org BROMSGROVE MUSIC Centre (Severn Arts) provides a Wind and Brass Band and a String Ensemble for children in the Bromsgrove/Redditch areas (approx G13). Mondays 6–7pm at St John’s Middle School, Bromsgrove. The first term is free! The centre also provides individual instrumental lessons 4.30–7.30pm. Visit www. severnarts.org.uk/bromsgrove-musiccentre or call 01905 947300. Cats Chorus is described as “a fun choir for people who love to sing but don’t have to be vocally gifted”, and meets on Tuesdays (term-time) at 7.30pm in The Wheel, Blackwell. They sing hits from the 60s to the present day. For more info, email sharoncatschorus@yahoo.com TARDEBIGGE CHURCH choir is seeking new recruits! The choir, based at St Bartholomew’s (B60 3AH) is struggling with declining numbers due to age and health, but still sings in four parts at morning and evening services on Sundays, plus weddings and funerals. They particularly need a bass or bass-baritone, but all parts are welcome! Pop along to a practice on Sat at 10am, or call Robert on 01527 542491. Shamanic Drumming Group meets monthly at Hopwood Village Hall. Drumming for Vitality, Healing and Joy. No previous experience necessary, drums available to borrow. For further details email Andy on Fixedholdsworth@sky.com The Arrow Vale Singers meet on Wednesdays from 8–10pm at Batchley Community Centre, Redditch B97 6PB, including a refreshment break. More info on 07718 113086, www.arrowvalesingers. co.uk or arrowvalesingers@gmail.com A JAZZ Night takes place at Beoley Village Hall on the 4th Wednesday of each month, featuring some fantastic “trad” jazz bands. For further details, or to order advance tickets, call 01527 62584 or 01527 66646 (both before 9.30pm). Alvechurch Sports & Social Club hosts a series of music events including
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ACOUSTIC ROOTS with a variety of local performers ten times a year, KARAOKE every Sunday evening and LIVE bands. For up to date details visit the Club’s Facebook page or phone 0121 445 2121. BROMSGROVE FOLK Club meets on the second and last Thurs every month at Catshill Club, starting at 8pm. For a full list of events call Bob Bignell on 0121 476 5938 or see www.bromsgrovefolkclub.co.uk
fun, exercise and dancing. They meet at 7.45pm every Wednesday in Alvechurch Baptist Church Hall. Everyone welcome. Come and play traditional folk music, or try morris dancing. For more details call Pam on 07961 830 831.
BROMSGROVE ROCK Choir offers everyone the chance to sing pop, rock and chart songs – no audition needed. Free taster sessions available. More info at www.rockchoir.com or on 01252 714276.
AVONCROFT FOLK Dance Group enjoys anything from barn dances to ones seen in Pride & Prejudice or Poldark. All welcome, no need to have a partner. The group meets every Thurs from 8–10pm at Avoncroft Arts Centre, Redditch Road, Bromsgrove. £2.50 incl refreshments. Info from Liz Stanton on 01905 353995 or liz@ the-stantons.uk or visit www.avoncroftfdg. btck.co.uk
Bromsgrove Community Choir meets on Thurs evenings, 6–7 pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Centre, in room 6, at the rear of the building off the small car park. They sing for fun and enjoyment; everyone welcome, singers or not. Contact Ruth Henley for details on 01527 527022 or email r.g.henley@btinternet.com
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.
Alvechurch Samba Band, Banda Sem Nome, is looking for new recruits! This local community side meets on the 1st and 3rd Thurs each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club at 8pm. Go along if you fancy having a go at something a little bit different and discovering your hidden talents! No previous experience required, all welcome (u16s must be accompanied by an adult). More info from Andrea on 07867 858099.
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
Bel Canto Singers... do you enjoy singing bright and lively pieces? Join in with a friendly group of mixed age singers. The music is a good variety, and the group’s aim is to produce a quality sound while supporting charity. Monday evenings at Crabbs Cross Methodist Church, Crabbs Cross Lane, Redditch B97 5LD. The marvellous men would love more tenor and bass voices! More info at www.belcantosingers.co.uk or from Polly Speers on 01564 822672.
DANCING French & Breton folk dancing at Alvechurch Village Hall: usually on the 1st Sat each month, 2.30–5pm. Informal tuition and live music provided. New dancers (and musicians) welcome. £2 per session. For details, email alvechurchfrenchdance@ gmail.com Aelfgythe Border Morris is actively seeking new dancers (female) and musicians (male or female) to join them for
DANCE SESSIONS take place every Tuesday from 11am–12noon at the Where Next Hub (Unit 2a, Millsborough House, Ipsley Street, Redditch B98 7AL). Designed for people with special needs, but all are welcome – join Nikki and the team and learn some new moves! £7 per session. Book now on 01527 69330 or nickylevy5@ btconnect.com. All proceeds to the Where Next Association. No longer able to dance? Try Wheelchair Dancing instead! Wheels and Toes meets in Harborne each Thurs, 6.15-8pm. Wide variety of dances. More info: Barbara on 0121 458 3686 or marshall8558@hotmail.com THE CIRCASSIAN Circle Barndancing Club runs on the first Saturday each month at Rowney Green Village Hall. £5 per person
Village What’s On 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. THE PHOENIX Dance Club holds Social Dances, Ballroom & Sequence Dancing twice a month on Sat nights at Bromsgrove Council building, Parkside Hall, Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove B61 8DA. Free parking. No membership required. No bar facilities – please bring own refreshments. More info from Mick or Thelma on 01527 872634. Sequence ballroom and Latin dancing every Mon evening at 8pm at the Longbridge Social Club, 1012 Bristol Road South, Northfield. Occasional free tuition. All welcome to a friendly fun-filled dance. More details from Kalvin on 07725 265024.
THEATRE The Corbridge Roche Theatre Company present The Choir, a new comedy by Paul Robinson. Hanbury Village Hall (B60 4BY), November 8 and 9 at 7.30pm. Tickets £8, available from 01905 771972 or 07908 346238. Licensed bar (cash only). For more information please find us on Facebook. Blackwell & Barnt Green Theatre Group has been in existence for over 40 years and only of late has any vacancies for new members. The group makes five or six visits a year, usually to Malvern or Symphony Hall in Birmingham. Membership includes reduced ticket fees and coach travel to the selected venue from the crossroads at Blackwell Post Office. More details on 0791 273 3226 or 0797 100 7604. Rubery Drama Group usually meets every Weds at the Beacon Church Centre, Whetty Lane, Rubery, 7.30 for 7.45pm.
CLUBS, GROUPS & SOCIETIES The Bromsgrove Society’s next talk is on Tues Oct 15 at The Methodist Centre, Bromsgrove, at 7.45pm and is entitled The Story of the Bluebird Toffee Factory at Hunnington. The talk will be given by Julian Hunt, who grew up in nearby Romsley. More info at www.bsoc.co.uk
Men in Sheds is a group for those who have retired or been made redundant and want to spend time with like-minded people. The Redditch group meets every Tues and Thurs, 10am–1pm, at The Old Needle Works, Britten Street, Redditch B97 6HD. The Bromsgrove group meets Mon–Thurs, 10am–2pm at Unit 1, Metals & Ores Industrial Estate, Stoke Prior B60 4JZ. ROTARY CLUB of North Worcestershire meets on Tues evenings 7 for 7.30pm at Droitwich Golf Club (Westford House, Ford Lane, Droitwich Spa WR9 0BQ). The group has an interesting programme of speakers and events throughout the year and engages in various projects helping to raise funds for local charities. New members welcome – more info from David Gilburn on 0121 445 1456. Bromsgrove & Redditch Welcomes Refugees (BRWR) is a group of volunteers supporting local refugees who’ve arrived under the government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons’ Relocation Scheme (SVPRS). New volunteers always needed – training and support given. BRWR is open to all, irrespective of political or religious belief. Full details at www.brwr.uk Alvechurch Friendship Group usually meets in the meeting room at Alvechurch Village Hall on the 4th Weds each month at 2pm – men and women welcome. On Oct 23 Keith Edwards gives a talk on Pot-Holing and Caving. Visitors £3 to include tea and biscuits. More info from Rosalind on 0121 445 0598. Bromsgrove friendship Club meets at the Life after Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove B61 8RA on the second Tues each month at 2.15 pm. For more info contact Millie Harries on 0121 445 5232. Alvechurch Village Society: Enjoy life and help preserve the local environment. Join in with social events, guided walks and maintaining local footpaths. On Oct 23 there’s a talk on My Life in the Police Force by Jim McManus, at 7.30pm in the village hall. General info from Martin on 07742 100007 or www.alvechurchvs.org
ally meets monthly in St Luke’s Church Hall (Evesham Road, Redditch, B97 4JX), 7 for 7.30pm. More info from Ron on 01527 545450 or ronnieg33b@hotmail.co.uk Friends of Bittell Reservoirs is a group of local people interested in preserving the natural environment of the Site of Special Scientific Interest at Upper Bittell, Lower Bittell and Mill Shrub reservoirs, which are important staging posts for migrant birds and wildlife. If you have an interest in preserving this unique environment and would like to help in its preservation and maintenance, contact: Charles Deverill on cdjd26@gmail.com Bromsgrove U3A. Retired/semi-retired? Meetings with guest speakers 1st and 3rd Tues most months at Artrix, plus variety of activities and outings: something for everyone. Curious? Call 01527 870449 or see www.u3asites.org.uk/bromsgrove/home Redditch Lions Club meets on the second Weds of each month at the Southcrest Hotel, Redditch B97 4JS at 8pm. For more info call 0845 833 5914, email secretary@ redditchlions.org.uk or visit www.redditchlions.org.uk Burcot Grange invites those living with dementia and their carers to attend the Dementia Lodge Café, held on the 2nd Thurs each month at The Lodge, 23 Greenhill, Burcot, B60 1BJ. Tea and coffee from 10.30am, entertainment from 11am and buffet lunch from 12.15pm. All welcome. Limited places – RSVP to Kiran on 0121 445 5552 or Burcot.haa@cinnamoncc.com Burcot Knit & Natter meets weekly on Mondays from 10–12am and 1–3pm at Burcot Garden Centre, B60 1PW. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3.50 to include a drink and cake. Burcot Grange welcomes you to enjoy High Tea (plus entertainment) with other guests and residents, on the 3rd Thurs each month from 2.30–4.30pm. Limited places – please RSVP to Kiran on 0121 445 5552 or Burcot.haa@cinnamoncc.com
Rubery Community & Leisure Centre is looking for volunteers – if you have a few hours spare on a Friday, you’d be made most welcome. The centre is a registered charity run solely by volunteers. For more info, ring 0121 453 7716 or email office@ ruberyleisurecentre.co.uk
Bromsgrove 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.
redditch Military History Society usu-
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continued from previous page 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. 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. COFFEE BREAK meets every Friday morning from 10.30am–12noon, in the Parish Centre behind St Andrew’s Church, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green. You will find a friendly and warm welcome – see you soon! For enquiries ring 0121 445 4278. The North Worcestershire Association of the National Trust Supporters’ Group (covering members resident in Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Redditch), meets at 7.30pm on the 3rd Thursday each month in Tardebigge Community Hall, behind St Bartholomew’s Church. Selection of interesting talks, plus coach outings, rambles, an annual holiday and fundraising activities, with emphasis on FUN! New members always welcome; annual subscription £7.50. More details from membership secretary Betty Millward on 01527 523805 or email bettymilllward36@hotmail.co.uk 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.
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Bromsgrove Photographic Society is a friendly, active and mutually supportive club for those interested in photography and digital imaging. The growing membership includes those with interests in both film and digital techniques, wide-ranging subjects and from highly-skilled photographers to novices. The club meets on Tuesday nights, 8–10pm at the Avoncroft Arts Centre. New members and visitors welcome. For more information, please visit www.bromsgroveps.co.uk ROTARY CLUB OF BROMSGROVE meets every 2nd Tues of the month at Maekong Thai Restaurant, and every 4th Tues at Bromsgrove School, both 7pm for 7.30pm. New members welcome. For more info visit www.bromsgroverotary.org.uk or contact Ron Pearce on 07703 567982. Alvechurch Sports & Social Club has a large Function Room available for hire. It has a bar, choice of two stages, plenty of seating, a dance floor and a capacity of 140. CHARITY fund raising events enjoy FREE room hire. Please book early; for more details contact the Club on 0121 445 2121, visit the Facebook page and leave a message, or email alvechurchssc2015@ hotmail.com Burcot Niddie Noddies spinning group meets on the 3rd Sat each month, 10am– 1pm at Burcot Garden Centre, B60 1PW. Open to all crafters, not just spinners. Bring your own chair. Phone Kim Neale on 0121 445 1677, or drop by, for more details. Cost £3 to include a drink and cake. Barnt Green Parish Centre has large and medium sized lounges available for regular hire for some morning and early afternoon sessions each week. Please contact the Parish Administrator on 0121 447 7097.
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 midland ancestors usually meets monthly at 7.45pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove, B60 1AS. On Tues Oct 8, Robin Hill presents The Real War Horse, with tales of the bravery and survival of horses in World War I. More info at www. bromsgrovebmsgh.co.uk Common thread is a friendly group of women who enjoy crafts including sewing, knitting, crochet and more, together with tea, cake and chat. For more info contact Maggie on 0121 439 9324 or Jayne on 0121 445 1113. Lickey Valley Trefoil Guild, as a branch of the Guide Association, is open to anyone over the age of 18. Make new friends, travel, explore, serve the community and help Guiding and Scouting in your area. The Guild meets at Barnt Green Scout & Guide Centre (off Blackwell Road, Barnt Green, B45 8BT) every second Weds from 7.30–9.30pm. For more info call 0121 445 3907 or 0121 445 2813 or visit www. trefoilguild.co.uk
Heart of England Speakers is a small, friendly, public speaking club, based in Knowle near Solihull. It is affiliated to Toastmasters International, and meets on the 1st and 3rd Tues every month, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at the Greswolde Hotel, Knowle. More information at www.heartspeakers.org.uk
Bromsgrove (1982) Probus Club provides regular opportunities for retired professionals and businessmen to meet socially and share common interests. A members’ meeting is held at Avoncroft Arts Centre on the 3rd Weds each month, 10am–12noon, including refreshments and a talk by a guest speaker. For more info visit www.bromsgroveprobus.co.uk or contact Jim on 01527 833531.
Redditch Rotary Club meets Monday lunchtimes at the Abbey Hotel, Hither Green Lane, Redditch, B98 9BE. You would be very welcome to join in. Want to be involved, hear interesting speakers, and serve your community? Want to know more? Contact Peter Williams on 01527 60277.
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
Village What’s On crafts or just chat – there’s also a tuck shop! More info from Louise Edgell on 07814 122990 or lickeyphabclub@hotmail.com Available for hire: The Wheel community room by St Catherine’s Church, Blackwell. Suitable for groups. Quiet, enclosed garden adjacent. For details contact the church office on 0121 445 1425. BEACON LADIES CLUB meets at 8pm on alternate Wednesday evenings at The Hawthorns Social Club, Rednal Hill Lane, Rednal. There is a varied programme of speakers and outings, including occasional visits to the theatre. New members of all ages welcome. £10 annual membership, plus £2 fortnightly. Please ring Barbara on 0121 445 3456 or Anita on 445 3770. THE FRIENDSHIP Club of Barnt Green usually meets monthly at 2.15pm at the Friends Meeting House, Barnt Green. Visitors £3 to include tea and biscuits. On Oct 15 Max Keen presents a talk and slides on Lord Nelson. For more details call Rosalind Tyler on 0121 445 0598. The Worcester-Birmingham & Droitwich Canals Society meets at the Alvechurch Boat Centre, Scarfield Hill (just a few steps behind The Weighbridge pub) on an “almost monthly” basis. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month, 7.45pm. There is usually a guest speaker and a raffle. Non-members are very welcome to come along. Please visit the website: www. wbdcs.org.uk THE WEDNESDAY Club usually meets on the second Weds each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club at 1.30pm, and offers the chance to make new friends, meet old ones and enjoy talks, demos and visits. Visitors £4 including tea. On Oct 9 Max Keen presents Lord Nelson. More info from Janet on 0121 447 7870 or Lis on 0121 445 3895. 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. Beoley Good Companions, a group for retired people, meets on the 1st Mon monthly at Beoley Village Hall to socialise and enjoy an entertainer or speaker. Membership £7 per year plus £2 entry charge, to include free raffle ticket. If you are interested, contact Secretary Ken Hawkesford on 01527 61130 or email kenhawkesford@
yahoo.co.uk or beoleygood.companions@ yahoo.co.uk for an application form. LICKEY HILLS Local History Society usually meets monthly at 7.30pm in the Trinity Centre, Old Birmingham Road, Lickey B45 8ES. 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 9 Keith Bullock returns with another evening of British transport films. More details from Dave on 01527 873800 or Gordon on 01527 873609. KINGFISHER PROBUS Club is recruiting retired and semi-retired men to meet people in a friendly environment. Meetings are held at The Foxlydiate Arms (B97 6PX), every 2nd Thurs of the month at 11.30am. Lunch is followed by an interesting talk given by a visiting speaker. Partners/ friends welcome for walks, trips, golf, skittles and special lunches. For more info visit www.kingfisherprobusredditch.co.uk or contact Chris Bailey on 01527 835802. Bromsgrove Astronomical Society holds an free open evening at Bromsgrove Rugby Club on Mon Oct 7 at 7pm. All, even those with no experience of astronomy, are welcome. There will be a talk on Starting Astronomy as a Hobby, a workshop on astrophotography, a demonstration of the properties of light and display boards covering topics such as the moon landings and the solar system. Weather permitting, the telescopes will be out and visitors are welcome to view the splendours and wonders of the night sky. Refreshments available. More information on 01527 908331 or www.broms-astro.org.uk Bromsgrove Ladies Probus meets monthly for a light lunch with a speaker, networking and occasional outings. If you are a professional or business woman and are recently retired, or coming up to retirement and would like further info, email bromsgroveladiesprobus@gmail.com ALVECHURCH HISTORICAL Society usually meets on the first Mon of the month at 7.45pm at the Museum in School Lane, Alvechurch. On Oct 7 John Butterworth presents Albania – Past and Present. More details from Anne Humphries on 0121 445 5955. New members welcome.
Bromsgrove & Redditch Soroptimists holds a Human Trafficking & Modern Slavery Awareness Day on Sat Oct 19, 10am– 3pm at Bromsgrove Methodist Church Centre (B60 1AS). Learn how to recognise the signs and what to do. Free event, open to the general public. Book a place at www.slaverynorthworcs.eventbrite.co.uk the Soroptimists usually meet every 2nd Thurs of the month at Burcot Village Hall (B60 1BH). New members welcome – pop to a meeting, email sibrsoroptimist@gmail. com or ring 07812 985927. BROMSGROVE PHOENIX NCDS (National Council for the Divorced, Separated & Widowed) Club meets at Lickey End Working Men’s Club every Thurs from 8-11pm. For more info call Mark Waring on 01562 824057, Pam Banks on 01527 759424 or Marilyn Cornish on 01905 778636. TARDEBIGGE COMMUNITY Hall for hire: large, bright facility for functions, clubs, societies and all activities. To book call 07763 446902 or email tchbookings@gmail.com CAN YOU Hear Me? (Communication Forum) usually meets on the 3rd Weds each month at Alvechurch Cricket Club, Birmingham Road, 10.30am–12noon. Both deaf and hearing people are welcome. More details from Pat on 07966 370448. ROTARY CLUB OF LICKEY HILLS meets on Monday evenings, 7.15 for 7.30pm, at Hillscourt Conference Centre (NASUWT headquarters) on Rose Hill (B45 8RS). For details contact Graham Wiseman on 0121 460 1402. The Monday Fellowship Group meets at the Parish Centre behind St Andrew’s Church in Barnt Green at 2.30pm on the second Mon each month. £1 per talk, to include tea and biscuits. For more information, go along or ring Joyce Linford on 0121 272 4443. SILVER THREADS, the Alvechurch club, meets on the first Weds each month at 2pm in Alvechurch Village Hall. You’ll be sure of a welcome in this friendly atmosphere, where members can chat over a cup of tea. There are regular bingo sessions, and occasional days out. New members welcome. More info from Pat on 0121 447 8630. Woodrush RUGBY Club “Old Dogs” meet at 8pm on the first Thurs in the month at the Clubhouse, Icknield Street, 01564 822878. Open to all former players, social
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continued from previous page members and old friends for a social chat and the odd reminisce over a glass of beer. Join us: call Mike Betts on 07960 303254 or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/woodrush HOPWOOD VILLAGE Hall is available for hire: ideal for parties and gatherings. Contact Ann on 0121 447 7668 or visit www.hopwoodvillagehall.co.uk the MACULAR Society Barnt Green Support Group usually meets on the last Fri of the month (with some exceptions) at The Parish Centre, behind St Andrew’s Church, Sandhills Road, Barnt Green, B45 8NR, 2–4pm. Friendly, self-help group, proving there is more to life than this devastating eye condition. New members always welcome. For more info, ring Wendy on 0121 445 1585 or Alan on 01527 877864.
SPORT, FITNESS & HEALTH Alvechurch Village Society’s next walk is on Sun Oct 6, when Sheila Parsons (07846 615955) leads a walk To Upper Bittell and Back. Meet at The Crown Pub; Withybed Lane, at 2.30pm. Bodytone Barnt Green at the Scout and Guide Hut, Blackwell Road. Every Wednesday (term-time only) 9-10am. Restarts Sep 4 .Challenging and easier options to suit all levels of fitness. Contact Fran on 07557 902269. PHYSIOTHERAPY: Specialist Orthopaedic, Musculoskeletal and Women’s Health. Muscle/ joint conditions, sports injuries, ante/postnatal, pelvic floor. Over 14 years’ experience. Clinic in Cofton Hackett. Home visits. Contact Leila: 07813 080223, Leila.holmes@physioadvantage.co.uk or www.physioadvantage.co.uk Netball for all ages and abilities at Alvechurch Middle School. £4 per session. Back to Netball (16+) for those who haven’t played since school, includes netball skills and gameplay: Mon 7-8pm. Pay and Play Netball (16+) who just want an hour of netball – Weds 7.30–8.30pm. Walking Netball for those who are less mobile but still want to enjoy netball at a slowed-down pace: Weds 6.30–7.30pm. More info from Pauline Knight on 07540 126814 or pauline.knight@englandnetball. co.uk Facebook: Netball in Alvechurch Woodrush Rugby: A warm friendly welcome awaits new recruits to the three Senior men’s teams (1st XV-Midlands 3
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South), Colts (U180, Women (Wolverines) and Mini & Juniors (Micros U5, Mini/Junior U5/U14). New floodlight pitch, training and clubhouse facilities, extended car park. Experienced RFU-qualified coaches at all levels to provide a safe, secure playing environment for all. The group’s rugby ambitions on the field are matched only by the social life off, so why not give it a TRY? Based at Icknield Street opposite the Peacock Inn, Wythall B38 0EL. Info at woodrushrfc@yahoo.co.uk, 07341 256821, www.pitchero.com/clubs/woodrush
addition, the group arranges holidays, coach trips and social events through the year. Full into at redditch.ramblers@gmail. com or www.redditchramblers.org.uk
Martial Arts Class at The Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch, every Tues 6.30–7.30pm. More details from Chris on 07507 696926.
Tai Chi: would you like to make a positive change in 2019, help to relax, have a new interest and exercise? Classes at Finstall Village Hall, Wednesdays 2pm.
Pilates with Lottie Newberry: Physiotherapy-led Pilates classes every Mon evening in the function room above the Red Lion in Alvechurch. Contact Lottie on 07968 450673 or lottienewberrypilates@ hotmail.com. All abilities welcome.
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!
Redditch & Bromsgrove Company of Archers meet April–Sept on Mon 6.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Meadow Park Football Ground (by Harris Brush Works – outdoors) and Oct–March on Weds 7.30pm and Fri 6.30pm at Studley Leisure Centre (indoors). Really friendly no-pressure club. New members always welcome (juniors from 8 years old, seniors from 18 to 80+, seasoned archers or absolute beginners). Beginners’ courses run throughout the year or taster sessions by appointment. Further info from Steve Thornton on 07811 575162 or 0121 445 5952. Adult Coached Swim Training every Sunday 6pm–7pm at Bromsgrove Sports and Leisure Centre (School Drive, B60 1AY). Contact Andrew Cunnell on 0121 445 5210 or email: bits@bratclub.co.uk. All swimmers welcome. Slimming World at Lickey End Social Club (17 Alcester Road, B60 1JT) – come and join our warm and friendly group, every Thurs at 5.30pm and 7.30pm. More info from Tracey on 07989 105937. Redditch Ramblers is a growing, friendly and sociable group offering a full walks programme including: * A walk every Sun usually 7–9 miles * Once a month, a choice of a Sat ‘A’ walk (around 10 miles) and a Sun ‘B’ walk (about 6 miles) * Monthly Saturday Safari for a more challenging walk * Fortnightly Saturday Strollers (4–5 miles). Newcomers always welcome. In
Physiotherapy-Led Pilates Classes on Monday mornings and Weds evenings at Cofton Hackett Village Hall. 6 lessons for £50. Mixed ability classes to improve muscle tone and posture as well as overall body strength. For full details contact Beth on 07841 477363 or elizabethalexanderltd@gmail.com
ZUMBA with LEESH! Come and SHAKE it til you make it, every Monday 7.30–8.30pm at Crown Meadow School. Contact: 07531 625939 for more information! Yoga Really Works: Yoga classes at Saint Nicolas Place, The Green at Kings Norton. Antenatal Thursdays, 6.25pm and Postnatal Fridays 11am (Stretch & Relax with baby). No Yoga experience necessary See www.yogareallyworks.co.uk for more info or Facebook /yogareallyworks BARNT GREEN Sailing Club offers regular sailing, either racing or casual sailing, in beautiful surroundings at Upper Bittell reservoir. For information contact secretary@bgsc.uk Term-Time Yoga Classes: Mondays 9.30– 10.30am, Cofton Hackett Village Hall. Classes £7.50 each with 4 weeks payable up front. Equipment provided. Please contact Sarah on 07970 072038 or hello@ themotorcyclingyogi.co.uk Briar Rose Field Archers is a field archery club based near Bromsgrove. There are two qualified coaches for those interested in taking up the sport. For information contact briarrosefieldarchers@gmail.com 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
Village What’s What’s On On Village Kettlercise classes at Blackwell Methodist Hall, Greenhill, B60 1BL. Mon 7.15–8.15pm, Weds 7.30–8.30pm, HIIT class Sat 8.15am. Kettlebells provided, all welcome. Contact Louise: 07792 229837. Facebook: ‘Kettlercise with Louise: North Bromsgrove’. Junior cricket coaching at Alvechurch Cricket Club runs every Sun from 10am to noon throughout the season, for boys and girls aged five to 11. All abilities welcome to enjoy cricket in a friendly environment. Led by ECB Level 2 or Level 3 qualified coaches. No charge for first session. Refreshments available. Info from Simon Bowron on 07753 621528. For details of coaching for ages 12–16, contact Nick Jones on 07779 267609. Saracen cycling Club is seeking new members. Men, ladies, beginners, and regular riders are all welcome. The longestablished club meets regularly by the Tardebigge Pub on Thurs at 10am and Sun at 9.45am. See www.saracenroadclub. com or call Ivor on 0121 453 2287. THE RAMBLERS, BROMSGROVE GROUP: Guided walking with our group for pleasure, fitness and fun. Full programme of walks / events throughout the year. More info at www.bromsgroveramblers.webs. com or Martin on 01527 857117 or Peter on 01527 558203. ALVECHURCH WALKING Buddies: join a regular local walk with like-minded people who simply want to go on a local, sedate and friendly walk with no pressure. Wellbehaved owners and their dogs are very welcome. The group meets at 10.30am every Thurs. For more info, search for ‘alvwb’ on Facebook or contact Tony on 07763 468893. SOCIAL TENNIS takes place at Rubery Community & Leisure Centre, Holywell Lane, Rubery B45 9AD on Mondays from 1–3pm. The group would welcome a few more players – just turn up or ring Don on 01527 759 318 for further details. PILates & piloxing: (Pilates and boxing): ALL levels of fitness. Tues (Barnt Green) 7pm (Piloxing Express) and 7.30-8.30pm (Pilates Mat). Alison: 07790 916947, Facebook: ‘@AlisonBFit’, alibenford@yahoo. co.uk, www.alison-personaltrainer.com PILATES: ONE-TO-ONE tuition using studio Pilates equipment to improve body awareness, posture and fitness. An efficient mind
and body workout – principles learned can be helpful in improving sports performance and functional fitness and managing pain. One-to-one tuition may lead to participation in studio and mat classes. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Call or text 07759 590830, email pilates@steff affleck.co.uk or visit www.steffaffleck.co.uk
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
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
One Fit Mama: Mother & Baby Wednesdays, 9.45am at Rowney Green Village Hall. Like us on Facebook: One Fit Mama Alvechurch, Barnt Green & Wythall.
yoga & Meditation classes, Yoga & Meditation Classes: Learn to relax with Gently Challenging YOGA, aligning the body naturally to build inner strength, flexibility & awareness. Get out your head with MEDITATION & DEEP RELAXATION, developing a Calm & Clear Mind. Friendly Classes, Weekend Workshops & 1–1s in Alvechurch, Blackwell & Burcot, Bromsgrove. Visit Sally’s website at: www.MyYogaMind. co.uk Contact her at:classes@MyYogaMind. co.uk or call/text: 07903 663085 Mercian Nordic Walking: Walking and exercise activities outdoors at the Ryland Centre and on local walking trails. Ian Northcutt BEM and his colleagues provide instruction and lead fun, friendly groups for all levels of fitness. More info at www. merciannordicwalking.co.uk Alvechurch Cricket Club Pavilion (rear of 6 Birmingham Road) is available for meetings/functions/child and adult 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 CATSHILL FC offers youth coaching sessions each Saturday morning at Catshill Middle School, Meadow Road, Catshill, B61 0JW. Boys and girls from Reception age upwards are welcome. Contact Gary on 07462 118920 or see www.catshillfc.co.uk for further info. Astwood Bank Angling Club has 8 lakes, including 2 just outside Alvechurch. Annual membership £63 adult, £48 conc, plus £10 joining fee. £10 juniors (no joining fee). Info at www.astwoodbankac.co.uk or contact Nick Powell on 07713 562495 or abac.membership@virginmedia.com
BROMSGROVE & REDDITCH Badminton Club welcomes players for social and league play. Playing Sunday evenings 5.40 to 7.40pm. Details from Steve Whittaker 07805 051456. mobility session for seniors: Tues 9.30am at Alvechurch Baptist Church. Suitable for seniors who want to improve their mobility, strength and balance. Info from Hayley on 01527 881404. Zumba Gold: Thurs 1–2pm at Alvechurch Baptist Church. A fun, energetic class retaining the vibrancy of Zumba but without the impact and twisting around, to accommodate the more senior participant. More Information from Hayley on 01527 881404. FIVE WAYS Old Edwardians’ Cricket Club at Ash Lane, Hopwood: Junior, Men’s and Women’s teams, come and join in! Open to all. Excellent facilities. Everyone welcome. Coaching for juniors on Fri evenings May to Aug. Contact Mark Tovey on 01527 835031. Tai Chi (Qigong) sessions in Alvechurch Village Hall on Mon 10–11am and Fri 11am–12noon. Qigong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intentions. Tai Chi also takes place at Hopwood Village Hall on Tues 7pm (beginners) and 8pm (intermediate/ advanced), and Weds 10–11am. More details on 07831 743737, or see www. paintingtherainbow.co.uk for daytime classes and www.kaiming.co.uk for evening classes. NEW Ravens (North East Worcestershire Ravens Rugby League Club) play at Kings Norton Rugby Club, Hopwood Park, Ash Lane, Hopwood. Playing opportunities for men’s open age, juniors, women and girls. Mixed touch every Mon from 7.30pm; open age training on Weds from 7.30pm.
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Mother Goose (pantomime) Dec.18th - 22nd at Artrix, Bromsgrove.
continued from previous page Juniors and “little leaguers” train each Sun from 10.30am. Masters RL is played for over-35s, with modified rules to suit different age cohorts, shown by different coloured shorts. New players always welcome, regardless of experience, as are any supporters to this family-orientated club. Further details at www.newravens.net AEROBICS classes at Alvechurch School, Birmingham Road, Fridays 6.30–7.30pm (Tues classes suspended until further notice). Lapsed or new members welcome. More info from Tony on 0121 445 1819. Kings Norton Rhinos offers contact and non-contact rugby for children from Reception to Year 12. A safe and friendly introduction to rugby – and plenty of outdoor fun and exercise! Training takes place at KNRFC Ash Lane, Hopwood, on Sundays from 10–11.30am. Contact Steve Washington on 07771 911209 or visit www.knrfc.co.uk Rubery Taekwon-Do at Waseley Hills High School, Rubery on Thursdays and Bournville College, Longbridge on Fridays, with Yvonne (2nd Degree Black Belt). For more info email yvonne@rubery-tkd.co.uk or visit www.rubery-tkd.co.uk Hopwood Ladies Cycling Club meets at Hopwood Playing Field on Tuesdays at 11.30 am and Wednesdays at 9.30 am. For more information, visit www.hopwoodladies cyclingclub.co.uk or phone Sheila Evans on 07779 530017. 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 Pol pol’s Playtime Stay and Play is open for 0–4 year olds, 10am–12noon every Mon, Wed and Thurs at Rowney Green Village Hall. Toys, bouncy castle, crafts, singing, instruments and bubbles at the end of each session. Free tea and coffee. £4 per child and £1 per sibling. Tots Play classes at Bromsgrove Girl Guiding Centre on Tuesdays. Social Tots 9.50am; Discovery Tots 10.50am; Baby Development 11.50am. More info from lucy@ totsplay.co.uk or 07709 453 756. TINY CHURCH Lickey: babies, toddlers and carers meet in Holy Trinity Church,
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Lickey, on Weds from 11.15am–12.45pm during term times. Games, toys, snacks and stories, with a time to meet together with God. Just pop along or contact clive.rushton@btinternet.com RHYTHM TIME: Award-winning multi-sensory, fun music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Classes in Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Lickey and Bromsgrove: see timetable at www.rhythmtime.net/vt374 or email: rhythmtimevicky@gmail.com BABY & TODDLER swimming classes with Turtle Tots: Thursdays 9.30–11.30am in Barnt Green. Teaching water confidence, key life-saving skills & stroke development. Great post-natal workout! More info: holly. wyer@turtletots.com Every Scout Group in Bromsgrove (which includes Barnt Green, Blackwell, Catshill, Finstall as well as the town centre) currently has girls and boys waiting to join, their numbers restricted by the ratio of adults to young people. A few more adults helping would enable existing leaders to open more Beaver Colonies and Cub Packs and allow more young people to experience Scouting. If you could spare a few hours, call Val on 01527 837060 or visit www.bromsgrovescouts.org.uk Marlbrook Pre-School: St Luke’s Church Hall, Braces Lane. Learning through play from 2 years to school age. Mon–Fri, 9am–3pm, term-time only. Contact Tina: 07951 869175 or Sharon: 07913 486619. New NCT Home Birth Support Group in Alvechurch meets Sunday evenings in the home of a volunteer. All welcome. Meet in an informal atmosphere, share concerns, get information and hear first-hand experiences. More info from Emilie on 07874 927 256 or emiliedeeringbfc@gmail.com 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. St John’s Baby & Toddler Group meets every Friday morning between 9.15 and 11am during term time at St John’s church
hall, Kidderminster Road, Bromsgrove. For further details please contact Cathy on 01527 870048 or just come along. Mum’s the Word playgroup takes place every Thursday in term time 9.30–11.20am at the Ark in Alvechurch. All are welcome, no charge; tea and coffee available for parents and grandparents. Come and join in! blackwell Baby & Toddler Group runs from 10–11.30am every Weds (term-time only) at Blackwell Methodist Church Hall, Greenhill, Blackwell B60 1BL. Small group run by local mums, all welcome. Great chance to meet local families and for your child to make new friends. Any questions please call Carrie on 07985 539983 or find the group on Facebook. Bromsgrove NCT Bumps and Babies Group now meets every Thursday, 10–11.30am at David Lloyd Fitness Centre, Slideslow Drive, B60 1GJ. The group is free and anyone is welcome, including toddler siblings. Contact Claire and Karen at bromsgrove@nct.org.uk Rowney Green Pre-school offers learning through play for children from two years to school age, Tues–Thurs 9am–2pm, term-time only. More info from Rosemary: 07836 770468 or Geraldine: 07725 553894. Lickey 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 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, call Claire on 07973 572768, email Claire.Quinn@mentorlink.org.uk or for more info see www.mentorlink.org.uk
Village What’s On Barnt Green Preschool has been open since 1978. Open term-time only, sessions run 9am to 3pm Monday and Wednesday, 9am to 1pm Tuesday and Thursday. Offering learning through play in a nurturing home from home environment for children age 2 to 4, there’s lots of indoor and outdoor space to enjoy – the perfect place to start your children’s learning adventures as they prepare to start school. The preschool is proud of its OFSTED report (ref 205125) and offers government-funded places. For more information or to join the waiting list email barntgreenpreschool@ gmail.com or call 07790 017777. The National Childbirth Trust runs antenatal courses in Alvechurch. These are designed to help parents prepare for labour, birth and early parenthood and run over a number of weekday evenings and/ or weekends. For info please call 0844 243 6873 or email bookings6d@nct.org.uk or visit www.nct.org.uk/confidence
LOVE YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY! alvechurch library relaunches its Chatterbooks Junior Book Club on Mon Oct 21 from 3.30–4.30pm. The club is for children aged 7–12 years and meets once a month in the library. From creative makes and silly comics to book-themed games, there is lots of fun for everyone. l The Crafty Ladies Christmas Sale is
on Mon Nov 18 from 9.30am–4.30pm. With wonderful handmade, handcrafted items for sale, from gifts to cards and decorations, please support the group who raise money for local causes close to their hearts. l Language tutor Patrick has a few
spaces in his ongoing Spanish class, which will restart at the end of October. Email Patrick at vdlt52@hotmail.co.uk or call 07708 027372 to see if the level the class is being taught at would allow you to join in.
colour Painting class, which continues on Tues Nov 11 and runs until Dec 17. Times 2.15–4.15pm, cost £70. Unleash the artist within you and join this fun and relaxed class. Don’t rush out and buy all of the kit, – Andrew is always happy for new members to borrow his brushes and paint while they decide if the class is for them. l The very popular Crafty Kids starts
again this autumn. If any original members would like their place, please let us know. Any other kids who are interested in crafting or learning to sew and knit, just pop in and sign up. Space for around 12 children aged 7+. The plan is to meet on the 3rd Monday of the month, straight from school, 3.30–4.30pm. Cost TBC. l For any enquiries, pop into the library
spaces available in his ongoing Water-
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.
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
fortable 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.
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.
games & COMPETITIONS
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.
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.
BROMSGROVE BRIDGE Clubs: The Amphlett Bridge Club meets at the Stroke Centre in Church Lane, Bromsgrove, on Mon evenings. New members welcome, helpful guidance available and parking is excellent. Contact Alistair on 07814 393416.
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
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.
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.
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 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 ALVECHURCH Templars Wargames Club meets most Monday evenings from
The Friday Bridge Club plays friendly, competitive, duplicate bridge at the com-
Finstall Pre-school in Finstall Village Hall, Mon–Thur 9.30am–1.15pm (termtime only). Led by qualified lower primary teacher. Visits welcome; call 07903 560787 or email Finstallpreschool@hotmail.com New Road Parents Support for parents of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans children meets monthly in Aston Fields. A confidential, voluntary, small support group for parents by parents. Individual meetings can be arranged with another parent if preferred. Close links with FFLAG. Visit www. newroad parents.org, email evansmargar@ gmail.com or call Maggie on 01527 832492 for details.
l Art tutor Andrew also has a couple of
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
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Village What’s On continued from previous page be made very welcome! Info from Betty Oakley on 01527 63725. 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. “managed” duplicate bridge sessions are run by Anne Glendenning and Eugene Elijah every Tues (1pm prompt start) at Burcot Village Hall, Alcester Road (B4096) – perfect for emerging players. Entry £3.50 covers session, some tuition and refreshments. Info from Anne on 01527 882169 or Eugene on 01527 871255 or 1944@ hotmail.co.uk Barnt Green Duplicate Bridge Club meets at St Andrew’s Church Hall each Weds afternoon and would like new members – contact Liz on 07538 092296. A popular weekly quiz takes place each Thursday at Alvechurch Sports & Social Club and follows the normal format. Doors open at 8pm. Organise a team, or just turn up and join a team. All welcome. Halesowen Bridge Club offers Chicago Bridge on Thursdays at 2pm in the United Church Hall, Hagley Road, Halesowen B63 4PX and is seeking new members. All are welcome. Within easy reach of Bromsgrove; parking is available. For info ring Ann Gittins on 0121 550 5246 or see www. halesowenbridgeclub.org.uk
ART & LITERATURE Withybed Poets are a group of poetry writers who meet in Withybed Green to share their poems and write together. They are open to anyone who enjoys writing and sharing poetry. They love reading their poems to audiences, which they do at the monthly Acoustic Roots in Alvechurch, but also for libraries, churches, community groups and festivals. They write poems on request for people and special occasions. Next meeting is Nov 13 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
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and media are used to create textile artwork, such as printing, dyeing, hand and machine embroidery, along with fabric manipulation. They are a leisure learning and development group and work to a set programme. If you are interested in becoming a member, contact Lynda on 0121 4453212 or Rita on 01527 545973. All About The Sew holds fun and sociable sewing workshops at Alvechurch Village Hall. For more details call Lorna on 07963 734756 or visit www.allaboutthesew.com Art & Soul Creative – artist and potter offering tutored art and pottery activities in Alvechurch. All abilities welcome. Call Marina on 0121 445 0655, email artand soulcreative.org@gmail.com or visit www. artandsoulcreative.org 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. Bromsgrove Art Society usually meets on the 3rd Weds each month (except Jan and Aug) at Burcot Village Hall, 340 Alcester Road, Burcot, Bromsgrove, B60 1BH, at 7.30pm. Entry £1 for members and £4 for non-members. Visitors welcome. For more info email lyndasharp2010@yahoo.com or visit www.bromsgroveartsociety.org.uk WYTHALL WRITERS meet at the Peter Thompson Room at St Mary’s Church, Shawhurst Lane on the second Thurs each month. New members always welcome. More info from Geoff on 07401 440064, Kevin on 07727 210617 or Terry at jackwalshauthor@gmail.com, or visit www.wythall writers.com 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 Burcot Woodturning Club offers a friendly meeting place for woodturners of all abilities and experience. A varied programme includes demos, talks, handson practical evenings and visits to exhibitions. The group meets on the first Thurs each month, 7.15–9.30pm at Burcot Village Hall. Info from John on 0121 458 5884 or visit www.burcotwoodturners.org.uk ALVECHURCH Library is available to host day and short courses such as card-making or scrapbooking. If you have a skill to teach or share, call 01905 822722. THE “CRAFTY Ladies” craft group meets every Monday morning in Alvechurch Library from 10am–1pm, with knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting etc. More info on 01905 822722. LICKEY HILLS ART SOCIETY, a friendly bunch of artists and those interested in art, meet at Longbridge Methodist Church, Bristol Road, B45 9TY, on the first Sat each month at 7.30pm. Open to artists and non-artists alike. For more info call Graham on 0121 453 7097 or come along – the members would love to see you.
HELP & ADVICE Divorced/separated and having trouble seeing your children? Being excluded from their lives? The Association for Shared Parenting has been helping mums and dads deal with the family court system and 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 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.
GARDENS & FLOWERS ROWNEY GREEN Horticultural Society meets at the Village Hall on the 2nd Thurs each month, at 7.30pm. On Oct 10 they welcome Roger Umpleby, a professional entomologist and horticulturalist with many years of consulting and research with government and industry. His topic is Plants Need a Balanced Diet Too. Guests always welcome – £3.50 including refreshments. For more info contact Lindsay Smith on 01527 592874. Rowney Green Flower Club usually meets on the 4th Thurs of the month at Rowney Green Village Hall at 7.30pm. All arrangements are raffled at the end. Guests very welcome; £3 including refreshments. More info from Felicity on 0121 445 2371. WYCHBOLD FLOWER Club meets nearly every 2nd Tues of the month (unless there’s an outing) at 7.30pm in the Royal British Legion Hall, WR9 7PN. The varied programme includes demos, workshops, garden visits and garden party, and there’s also a plant stall and raffle. Visitors welcome – just £4 to include refreshments. More info from Barbara on 01299 851282. Dodford Gardening Club meets on the 2nd Monday each month (except August) usually in Dodford Village Hall at 7.45pm. New members and visitors welcome. More info at www.dodford gardeningclub.co.uk or call Penny on 07706 153618. 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 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. Fun Flower Arranging/Floristry Classes and Workshops. Thurs evenings at The Ark, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch. Contact Claire for more information on 07564 339157. Website: www.clairewm.wixsite. com/floralcreations BROMSGROVE FLOWER Club meets on the 3rd Thurs each month at 2.15pm (except Jan) in All Saints Church Hall, Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B61 1AF. Visitors always welcome to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with tea and biscuits – you’ll receive a warm welcome and may even be lucky enough to win one of the arrangements. For more info contact Wendy Robertson on 01905 480571. THE NORTH Worcestershire Fuchsia Society meets on the 2nd Weds each month at Bromsgrove Sports & Social Club, 7.45pm. Info from Stewart on 01527 877662.
WOMEN’S INSTITUTES St Catherine’s WI meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday each month, in ‘The Wheel’ at Blackwell. More information from Sue Barratt on 01527 596092 or s.barratt@bnvillej.bham.sch.uk FINSTALL CROSS WI meets at Finstall Village Hall on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. For more info see www. finstallcrosswi.wordpress.com or email finstallcrosswi@gmail.com Bromsgrove Belles WI meets on the second Monday each month at The Life After Stroke Centre, Church Lane, Bromsgrove, B61 8RA at 7.30pm. For more info, contact President Carla Priddon at carlapriddon@aol.com BEOLEY WI meets on the first Tuesday of each month in Beoley Village Hall at 7.30pm. For more info please contact Georgia Jacobs on 01527 62766. Lickey WI meets on the first Tues of every month at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall (Trin-
ity Centre), Old Birmingham Road, Lickey. More info from President Janet Ratcliffe on 0121 445 0163 or see www.LickeyWI. Wordpress.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 RUBERY WI meets at Beacon Church Centre, Whetty Lane, on the second Wednesday each month at 7.30pm. More info from Judie Fisher on 07810 765314. Bentley Pauncefoot WI meets at 7.30pm on the second Tues every month at Bentley Village Hall. More info from Vivien Mackenzie on 0121 445 1245. Barnt Green WI meets at the Baptist Church in Barnt Green on the third Thurs each month, from 7.30–9.30pm. More info from Alyson Williams on 0121 445 6577. Hopwood WI meets at Hopwood Village Hall on the first Thurs of the month at 7.30pm. For more info call Ann Thurrell on 0121 447 7668. ALVECHURCH WI meets on the second Monday each month in Alvechurch Village Hall, at 7.30pm. For more information email President Julie Hurlston on presidentalvechurchwi@gmail.com ARK ANGELs WI meets on the second Monday each month from 7.30pm at the Ark, Alvechurch. For more info email ark.angels@hotmail.com Finstall & Cofton Hackett WI meets on the first Monday of the month at Finstall Village Hall at 2pm. For more info call President Val Wheeler on 01527 874518. Hillside at ALVECHURCH WI meets at 7.45 pm on the first Weds each month at The Ark, Alvechurch. For more info call Pat McDonagh on 0121 628 4121. Blackwell & BURCOT WI meets at Burcot Village Hall on the second Weds each month, at 2pm. For info call President Mrs Barbara Knight on 0121 445 3456.
To have your event or group listed here, send details to Sally Oldaker via the addresses on Page 3, by October 16. The Village
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VISIT US AT: BROMSGROVE: Saxon Park, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4AD - 01527 835924 STUDLEY: Alcester Road, Studley, Warwickshire, B80 7AG - 01527 857772 KENILWORTH: Leyes Lane, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2DE - 01926 855044 SHIRLEY: 153 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 3AY - 0121 744 0989
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