The BRIDGE September 2013
Parish Fete at Button Oak 10th August
Thank you to all those who supported the Fete in any way and helped make it such a success. More than 1000 people came to enjoy the attractions on offer and £3000 was raised for Community Transport Helpline and Parish funds. Particular thanks go to members of Bewdley Round Table,Vince Taylor and members of St.Anne’s Church, Jen at the Button Oak pub and Bernard Leighton who organised the magnificent Spitfire flypast. Stalls from charities and local businesses, local entertainers, owls, pigs and classic cars all added to the fun on the day. Cate Gillespie Chair Fete Committee
Editorial News
The Bridge is the community voice of Bewdley
It is free and delivered by volunteers to more than 4,600 homes every month Visit us at www.bewdleybridge.org.uk
Welcome to September’s Bridge.
After the success of last year’s inaugural events, September brings us Bewdley Book Week and Bewdley Youth Festival. Our centre page highlights what is on offer when both nationally recognised and local writers take the stage at venues throughout the town. At the end of the month, the Youth Festival showcases a wide range of local young talent in two concerts. Find out more on page 19. Page 15 introduces one of Bewdley’s rising young opera stars as she prepares for a concert in St.Anne’s Church.
The Bridge recently welcomed a guest writer from The Bewdley School Sixth Form. George Kowalik reflects on the lot of a Harriers fan after the turmoil of last season on page 31. And how do 12 year olds spend leisure time? Read what George discovered on page 21. As plans are being made to bring film back to Bewdley in St. George’s Hall, Roger Key met Geoff Goodwin to hear about the glory days of the town’s Garden Cinema. Geoff shares his memories of the riverside venue on page 9.
Margaret takes us on a footpath that is a favourite of hers whatever the weather and invites us to admire the view on page 43. Sheila Lowe celebrates Bewdley’s guerrilla gardeners. Have you spotted any pop up gardens around the town?
Bewdey Library wants to hear your views on a proposed change on location. Read the article on page 13 to find out how you can take part in the public consultation and make sure you have your say. Enjoy all that September has to offer.
Sharing your news with us
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If you can help deliver please email editorial@bewdleybridge.org.uk Deliverers mostly take out less than 50 magazines. Reserve list is also useful. Printed by A&G Printing Co Ltd sales@agprint.co.uk
Cover photograph: Rob Limbrick - Spitfire over Button Oak fete 3
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Severnside School of Dancing
Classes in Ballet,Tap, Modern, Classical Greek, and Acrobatic Dance held at the Wheatsheaf Room, Bewdley Institute Special Junior hour Fridays 4-5 Training for Festivals and exams Contact Joyce Campbell on 01299 400633 www.severnsideschoolofdancing.co.uk
HORSE RIDING LESSONS
• BHS qualified instruction • Excellent Facilities • Well schooled horses and ponies • Friendly, relaxed atmosphere • Small class sizes
Flute and Theory Lessons All ages and abilities welcome Twenty years experience
Emma Syska BA Hons ( Cantab) ARCM
Phone Adele on: 07799 761 932
Contact 01299 403655 or email
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emmasyska@hotmail.com
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4
September
W h a t ’ s
O n
Community News
More details elsewhere in the magazine
‘If the shoe fits…’: exhibition in the Museum’s Wyre Forest Gallery until 22nd September Bewdley Footpaths & Bridleways Association walk 1.45 meet by bridge 4 miles Bewdley Floral Art Club 7.30pm Wharton Park Golf Club All Saints’ Knit and Natter 10-12am. Children welcome; Gail 01299 401685 Friends of Bewdley Museum World War 1 exhibition group meeting. Mayor’s Parlour 5pm 4 Bewdley and District Horticultural Society meeting 7.45 Wribbenhall Community Centre 5 Bewdley Library consultation meeting about proposed relocation. In Library 2.00 – 6.00pm 5 Rock Pathfinders walk from Hawkbatch car park Dowles Rd 10.30am 01299 400304 9-15 Bewdley Book Week. See Colour pages 9 Wribbenhall WI 2pm Riverside Church Dog Lane 01299 404474 9 All Saints’ Church Nearly New Book Sale 10-12am 5 for £1 14 Juicing and Cider Making course at Uncllys Farm 01299 488083 or info@wyreclt.org.uk 14 The Joint Honey Show 1.00pm Hagley. Free. Church Hall, Worcester Road, Hagley 14-15 Kidderminster Horticultural Society Annual Show, Mercure Hotel 10.00am – 5.00pm 16 All Saints’ Knit and Natter 10-12am. Children welcome; Gail 01299 401685 18 Bewdley Civic Society 7.30pm St. George’s Hall. Non members welcome 19 Rock Pathfinders walk from Duke William Inn, Callow Hill 10.30am 01299 400304 21 Natural Dyes course at Uncllys Farm 01299 488083 or info@wyreclt.org.uk 21 Coffee Morning for Macmillan Cancer Support All Saints’ Church 10.30 am onwards 22 Bewdley Concert Band concert Mercure Hotel 7.30pm www.bewdleyconcertband.co.uk 24 Bewdley Townswomen Harvest Supper Wribbenhall Community Centre 7.30pm 401352 25 Bewdley/ Wribbenhall Ladies Luncheon Club. To book place ring 400363. 27 Macmillan Coffee Morning, 15 The Covert, Kidderminster 10.00am – 2.00pm 01562 746750 27 Bewdley Youth Festival concert St. George’s Hall 7.30pm Esther Turner and local artists 28 Macmillan Coffee Morning, Bewdley Baptist Church cottage 10.00am – 1.00pm 28 Bewdley Youth Festival concert, St. Anne’s Church 7.30pm Operatic duets and piano 28 Angela Gladwell Art exhibition opens in Wyre Forest Gallery in Bewdley Museum 29 Bewdley Open Views. Maps and details from St. Anne’s Church 29 Fungus Forays 01299 266929 or www.forestry.gov.uk/wyreforest 30 Wribbenhall Parish Rooms AGM 6.30pm. Come to see the refurbishments 1 2 2 2
October 4
5 6
Colin Hill photographic exhibition ‘A Chinese Experience’ opens in Bewdley Library Gallery All Saints’ Quiz Wribbenhall Community Centre Shaw Hedge Road 7.30pm 402682 Bewdley Footpaths & Bridleways Association walk 1.45 meet by bridge 4 miles 5
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THE PERFECT DAY OUT FOR ALL. RIVER CANOE TRIPS - PUB STOP - STEAM TRAIN RETURN
We open every day until mid September and then weekends until November. We offer one and two day trips on the River Severn at Bridgnorth in Shropshire.
Please check our website for trip details. River Canoe Trips, Pub Stop,Steam Train Return. Meet at 9.45am. After a short safety talk you paddle for 1hr 40 mins (6 miles down stream), then stop for lunch. After lunch paddle for another 1hr 30 mins (4.5 miles), before returning on the steam train back to the start point. Finish approx 5pm. On week days only, for every adult and child booked the second child comes half price. Please quote “The Bridge Magazine” on enquiring www.canoeuk.com Tel 07774 907326 6
A warm welcome from Bewdley Baptist Church.
Womens’
Church News
Own - an afternoon meeting for ladies. Art Group - a quiet place to paint and draw. Who Let The Dads Out - second Saturday of the month for dads and toddlers Super Saturday - second Saturday of the month for primary school aged children. Super 60’s Lunch Second Tuesday of the month. Youth Activities Men’s Group. Like to know more? Contact the minister Simon Harry, at the church office (403267) or visit www.bewdley.baptist.org.uk
Our main focus of worship is on Sundays at 10am, where there is a relaxed style with lively music, all ages come together and we hear God's word for today through the Bible. Sunday evening at 6.30pm we have a shorter, more reflective service. Weekly Events Our church runs a number of regular events during the week: Noah’s Ark - for parents and toddlers.
Bewdley Baptist Church 61 High Street Bewdley
St Leonard’s
St Anne’s Church
Sunday morning worship: 11.15am
Sunday worship at 9.30am Worship lasts for about an hour. Music is usually a mix of contemporary and traditional. Children and young people will often meet in their own groups and join with adults later on.
On the first Sunday each month we have a service of Holy Communion.
On the other Sundays we have Matins – from the Book of Common Prayer. Church is usually open in daylight hours for prayer, peace & quiet.
Thinking about baptism? Come to 9.30am Sunday service at St Anne’s Bewdley and we’ll talk together over coffee.
Wednesdays at 10.15am Morning Worship
Our website is: www.bewdleyparish.org.uk
Booking a wedding at St Leonard’s Ribbesford, St Anne’s or All Saints, Wribbenhall – begin by dropping in at St Anne’s on a Tuesday evening, 6-7.30pm
Thinking about a Wedding?
Call in at St Anne’s on a Tuesday evening, anytime between 6-7.30pm
Keith James is the minister of the Church. Contact him on 01299 402275 (office)
Thinking about baptism – come to our 9.30am Sunday service and we’ll talk together over coffee
or Diane Taylor, the Churchwarden, on 01299 403983. You are very welcome. However you come. Why ever you come. We hope you will come again.
Our website is: www.bewdleyparish.org.uk
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STUDIO 10
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Italian Tuition
10A SEVERNSIDE NORTH (Above Quay Gallery) BEWDLEY • WORCESTERSHIRE • DY12 9YG
Commencing September 2013
Studio 10 is an art workshop
Children 7 – 11years
The studio allows students, at different levels, to progress and develop, learn new skills and explore a variety of media and ideas.
Adults Level 1 Beginners
Adults Level 2 Intermediate
There is no charge for the first class so that you can find out if it is something you would like to pursue. Beginners are very welcome. If you are interested in joining any of the classes please contact me, leave details at the Quay Gallery or call into Studio 10.
Advanced/GCSE
Classes tailored to suit individuals
I look forward to meeting you.
For more information e mail learnitalian31@yahoo.com
Beattie Anne Baldwin Dip AD. B.A. A.T.C. (Lon. Uni) Mobile: 07757 459167
Alternatively call
Email: beattieannebaldwin@tiscali.co.uk
07773004992
8
Church News
Bewdley Methodist Church
St Andrew’s Bewdley
The Chapel in the woods Sunday worship: 11.15am on the second and fourth Sundays each month St Andrew's is found in Button Oak, Shropshire, 3 miles north of Bewdley on the B4194 to Kinlet. www.bewdleyparish.org.uk Keith James is the minister of the Church. Contact him on 01299 402275 (office)
High Street Services at 10.30 every Sunday
For details about any activities or special services please see our advert or contact Rev. Philip Hoar on 826641.
All Saints Wribbenhall
Services in September 1st Trinity 14 8.00am Holy Communion (said) 9.30am Family Service with Baptism 8th Trinity 15 9.30am Holy Communion 15th Trinity 16 9.30am Holy Communion 22nd Trinity 17 9.30am Holy Communion 29th Trinity 18/ Harvest 9.30am Holy Communion To book a wedding at All Saints', please go along to St. Anne's on a Tuesday evening between 6.00 and 7.00pm to see Sue Taylor. To arrange a baptism (held on the first Sunday of each month), come along to a 9.30am service and have a chat with the Vicar or a churchwarden after the service.
RIVERSIDE CHURCH
An Elim Pentecostal Church “A Family Church” We meet every Sunday @10:30am Feel free to come and join us for worship and a relevant message from the Bible. Children and Youth meet on Sunday morning and Youth Group on Weds 6:30pm to 8:00pm Church office: 01299 405535 www.riversideelim.com
Holy Family Catholic Church High Street Sunday Mass 8 am
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
Tuesday & Thursday Morning Prayer 9.45am, Mass 10am
Bewdley Quaker Meeting House, Lower Park. Meeting for worship every
Holy Days of Obligation 12 noon
Sunday 10.30-11.30am.
Parish Office 01299 822633
Everyone is welcome.
www.stwulstanstourport.org.uk 9
For further information, phone the Clerk on 01562 741501
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10
Community News
Community Cinema at The Hall
Roger Key, one of the group hoping to bring cinema to St George’s Hall, recently met Geoff Goodwin to hear about his memories of Bewdley’s former Garden Cinema.
“I guess it was as though the World was at the end of my drive’, says Geoff. “Much of my early years revolved around the Garden Cinema. It was just twenty paces from our front drive gates at Glenhurst where I was born. In drab post war Bewdley, I found the opportunity to join Roy Rogers and Gene Autry in the cowboy crusade against villains in black hats was wonderful escapism. The Cinema gave me and Picture from The Kenneth Hobson Collection the lads from school the theme for so much of our free wandering playtime, imitating the crusade for good over evil.”
“Our elders also found that cinema going, even with sometimes not so new films, encouraged meetings for courtship or just simple fan worship of the stars of the day. Looking back, it was a simple way of providing a focus for social gathering of Bewdley folk and those from the more rural communities in the pre television era.” Geoff recalls his brother Tony enthusing him to go to the cinema. He graduated from being an eager and regular patron to opening and closing the doors, stoking the boiler, turning the handle to rewind reels for second showings, checking the flimsy celluloid for damage or repair and even acting as stand in Projectionist, all unpaid! He is still amazed that as a young lad he was allowed into the hallowed Projection Room.
With the arrival of affordable TV, audiences dwindled and the cinema briefly fought back with more comfortable seating (the front row had been a wooden bench), interior decoration by Stourbridge College, a new panoramic wide screen films and even the occasional 3D epic. Sadly, the world turned and, instead of queues round the block, ticket sales fell steadily to a point where economic sense dictated closure. Eventual demolition wiped away any evidence of the shaping of so many lives reflected in the famous ‘silver screen’. He sadly remembers that the music crescendo at the closing scene ‘riding off into the sunset’ was only echoed by the sound of the wrecking ball and dumper truck.
As a post script, Geoff mentions that during the 1960’s there was a brief cinematic revival, led by Reg Wolfe and others, with monthly ‘Art House’ type films at The George, followed by a sociable drink and critical reviews of that night’s showing. He wonders if this might be the model for the refurbished St George’s Hall? The group formed to revive cinema in Bewdley using St George's Hall’s new facilities is now working to put on a 'taster' screening in late October. Volunteers are still needed. If you'd like to help bring avant-garde and mainstream 'Hollywood'-style movies to Bewdley, please contact Val Ireland on valireland@mail.com. Look out for details of the first St George's Hall screening in next month's Bridge. 11
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We supply & fit blinds & curtains We supply & fit awnings & canopies Phone Richard Hague for a free quotation
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LIZ LORD
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THINKING OF MOVING?
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DAVID JONES
Contact the only Bewdley estate agents with fully networked offices in Kidderminster & Stourport and 11 associate offices throughout Worcestershire. 28 Load Street, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 2AS 01299 400555 www.allan-morris.co.uk
13
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WINDOWS & DOORS
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RLM Decorating
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Installed DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL Locks, Misted Units, Soffits, fascias, gutters & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE WORK DEAN CHAMBERS 07985301956 01562 827712
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14
Community News
Behind the Baton
As I mentioned in my review of the Bewdley Festival programme last month, we have another visit from players from the CBSO, this year in the form of El Ultimo Tango. This quintet was formed by the orchestra’s principal cellist Eduardo Vassallo primarily to perform the music of Astor Piazolla. Piazolla created a new form of tango music called nuevo tango. The music is inspired, of course, by traditional Latin American rhythms but Piazolla fused this with techniques from jazz and classical music, even using methods employed by baroque and classical composers such as Bach and Mozart. The result is music which is complex and technically advanced but vibrant and fresh. You will marvel at the brilliance of the players whilst simultaneously tapping your foot. The combination of instruments blends extremely well, creating a sophisticated sound that is easy and relaxing on the ear. For me it has very broad appeal whether you are a jazz or classical music fan but if you want to give yourself a sneak preview of what to expect, the group have an excellent website (ultimo-tango.co.uk) where you can listen to excerpts of their music. I can heartily recommend this concert; I think it will be a very special afternoon in St Anne’s. Alastair Elliott
Sunday 13th October 2.30pm £12 St. Anne’s Church Load Street Tickets 01905 611427
Your Library Needs You!
As you may have seen in the local press, there is an exciting opportunity for the Library to move into the new Medical Centre to be situated in Dog Lane.
Between 19th August and 7th November the council is holding a public consultation to discover the views of the community regarding this important change. We would like you to fill in a questionnaire, either online or here in the library, so we can find out how you feel about the current service and what you would like in the future. There will be a consultation afternoon in the library on Thursday 5th September from 2 pm – 6pm* when you will be able to come along and talk to some of those involved.
The move would mean we would be moving into a new, purpose built building, which offers the opportunity of increased working with other organisations to provide improved, joined-up services and a vibrant focal point for the local community. After the consultation period a feedback meeting will be held at the library on 21st November from 2 pm – 6 pm*. This consultation gives you the chance to influence how your library goes forward into the future; we really need your views. The consultation questionnaire is available online at www.worcestershire.gov.uk/bewdleylibraryconsultation. Please submit by 7th November 2013
Kay Sanderson Bewdley Library
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*provisional times – please check
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Carpets Vinyl & Vinyl Tiles Laminate Real Engineered & Solid Wood Ceramic Floor & Wall Tiles Beautiful Real Slate & Stone Flooring Entrance Matting Safety Flooring Domestic & Commercial Specialist in Underfloor Heating High Quality Workmanship Guaranteed. All Jobs Left Clean, Tidy & Vacuumed.
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Community News
After a year studying in Germany, mezzo soprano Charlotte Ireland returns to the town where she was brought up to take part in Bewdley Youth Festival 2013 alongside baritone Samuel Lom.
Charlotte’s interest in singing was sparked as a student at Haybridge High School and with the support of the music and drama department there her vocal talent was recognised as a Worcestershire Young Musician of the Year in 2009.
But opera became her real passion while at the University of Warwick, where she performed several roles alongside Samuel Lom with the resident opera company, Opera Warwick. This culminated with her singing Hansel in Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel. Charlotte has also performed alto solos with Stratford-Upon-Avon Choral Society and Chamber Choir in a number of concerts including Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle, Händel’s Messiah and Haydn’s Missa Cellensis.
While in Berlin, Charlotte and Samuel have been studying under Mark Gruett (Deutsche Oper) and Stefanie Hoernes (Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler) and they devised a programme of opera favourites From Monteverdi to Mozart that they will be performing as part of the Bewdley Youth Festival at St. Anne’s Church on Saturday 28th September. Their accompanist is Richard Black who has played for singers in London, New York, Paris and Luxembourg. This is the world premiere, so be sure to buy your ticket early! Further details of Bewdley Youth Festival events can be found at: http://bewdleyyouthfestival.org.uk
Bewdley Footpaths and Bridleways Association
Bewdley and District Horticultural Society
holds a walk on the first Sunday of each month, meeting at 1.45pm.for a prompt start at 2.00pm. The meeting and start point is the garden on the east side of the river just below Bewdley Bridge.
Wednesday, 4th September Our Garden in Suffolk presented by Rob & Denise Sherriff
Wribbenhall Community Centre, Shaw Hedge Road, Wribbenhall, Bewdley. 7.35p.m. for 7.45 start.
Sunday 1st September A walk of approximately 4 miles to Burlish Top & returning via the Rifle Range & Devil's Spittleful led by Penny McGovern and Keith Simkin
One time Bewdley residents, Rob and Denise recount the ups and downs of their journey from Bewdley to Suffolk where they planned to start up a business selling Dahlias. Dahlias are Rob`s big passion. Come along and enjoy a friendly night out for just £1 50p which includes refreshments
Sunday 6th October A walk of about 4 miles towards Dowles Brook & Hitterhill Coppice led by Carole Wilcox & Phil Sealey.
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More details 01299 400580/402670 http://www.bewdley.org.uk/bhs/bewdleyhorticultural-society
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Project11:Layout 1 09/02/2012 11:14 Waste Carriers License BUS/722860
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For information or a no-obligation quote call: email: forestinstallations@gmail.com A division of Unique Building Company 19
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We’ve now relocated to our Worcester shop, But we still supply & fit within the Bewdley area.... We're just a phone call away!
20
Community News
Friday 27th and Saturday 28th September
Following the success of last year’s inaugural Bewdley Youth Festival, and with the aid of generous donations from the Midcounties Co-operative Community Fund, Bewdley Town Council and Kidderminster Lions, the 2013 Festival has been expanded. Local young people are offered a range of stimulating workshops designed to appeal to all ages and interests. Art exhibitions, a photography competition and two evening concerts celebrate the abundance of young talent in the area.
The Festival opens in St. George’s Hall on Friday 27th at 7.30pm. with a concert showcasing young local musicians. Host and headline act Esther Turner returns after delighting the crowds at June’s Bewdley Festival event in Jubilee Gardens.
We are lucky to be hosting an evening of operatic duets featuring rising young stars Charlotte Ireland and Samuel Lom in St Anne’s Church at 7:30pm on Saturday 28th. Their performance is preceded by Dan Almond, a talented sixth form student at The Bewdley School, playing piano pieces inspired by the movies. This promises to be another evening not to be missed.
Workshops on offer during the weekend include: Drumming with local musician and Rhythmic Unity founder, Steve Harley, Cooking Skills, with Darren Bale from the Hop Pole, Cake Decoration by Kimmy of Kimmy Loves Cakes, an Art themed visit to Uncllys Farm and themed ceramic decorating at Barbara Miller’s Melting Pot.
The Festival once again also features the Bewdley Civic Society’s project with the Bewdley School as well as a concert on Wednesday 23rd October at the school hosted and organised by the Rotary Club of Bewdley. Details of Bewdley Youth Festival available at www.bewdleyyouthfestival.org.uk.
LIVE WYRES for Social Singles
Live Wyres is a Wyre Forest based social club for single people. We meet in pubs around the area and hold dances and other events in a range of venues from hotels to village halls. Tues 3rd Sept – Pub Night at Queen’s Head, Wolverley Wed 4th Sept – Roving pub lunch – Mare and Colt, Kidderminster Tues 10th Sept – Pub night – Island Pool, Cookley Fri 13th – Mon 16th Sept – Long weekend trip to Eastleigh in Devon Sat 21st Sept – Reunion Dance/Birthday Party at Gilt Edge Sat 28th Sept – Day Trip to Llandudno We always welcome new members. Anyone interested can find out further information at our website www.livewyres.org.uk or contact Sandra on 01299 400979. 21
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Community News
What do 12 year olds do in their spare time?
In one week in July, 120 year 7 students from The Bewdley School were asked what activities they had taken part in during the previous week. 11 played football, 9 tennis, 8 rugby, 7 cricket, 2 basketball, 2 golf and 2 netball. 24 went swimming, 23 cycling, 17 horseriding, 12 running, 7 skateboarding, and 2 rowing 21 had music lessons. 11 took part in dance and 5 in drama. 16 went to Guides or Scouts 4 did gymnastics, 3 trampolining, 2 athletics, 2 boxing, 2 archery, 1 fencing and 1 martial arts 4 went rock climbing,1 sailing, 1 kayaking, 1 waterskiing 9 were roller skating, 7 scootering, 3 snowboarding, 2 motorbiking And 26 walked the dog. So what’s all this about young people only playing video games? George Kowalik
Rock Pathfinders
Bewdley Bridge Club
(founded 1975) welcomes new members Bridge is widely recognised as the best card game. It is a social game at the same time providing endless stimulus for the grey matter. Tuition available for both beginners and improvers/intermediate players. Courses will start mid September. The Bridge Club meets every Wednesday 7-10pm. Contact Richard Greenwood 01299 402513 or email: rmgreenwood@talktalk.net for further details.
Free guided walks along our footpaths and bridleways taking 2-3 hours. Thursday 5th September from Hawkbatch Valley Car park, Dowles Road B4194 OS reference 761778 10.30am start. Thursday 19th September from The Duke William Inn, Callow Hill, Rock, OS ref 749738 10.30am start. For our full programme visit www.rockpathfinders.webspace.virginmedia.com or www.rockvillagehall.co.uk or ring Alan on 01299 400304 or Jan on 01299 832571
You are warmly invited to
Messy Church
Games – Stories – Creativity for all children of all ages
Sunday 15th Sept 3-4pm St. Anne’s Church, Load Street, Bewdley Rev Keith James 402275 23
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Local handyman available for all types of housing and garden maintenance. Local man John Kirk has over 30 years experience of many trades offering a professional service with pride. Skills Available Painting Fencing Blockpaving/Slabbing Grounds / Garden maintenance
PW Maintenance Services “LET ME DO YOUR TO DO LIST�
* Painting & Decorating * Laminate Flooring & Skirting * Landscaping * Fencing * Loft Insulation & Boarding * Installation of Child Proofing Devices * Hanging of Doors * Assembling Flat Pack Furniture * Draft Proofing Windows & Doors
Building maintenance Internal & External Free Quotes available within 24 Hrs Please contact John on any of the following details and he will aim to respond asap. Mobile : 07748 861130 Home : 01299 878725 Email: jkirk762@btinternet.com
If I have not listed the service your require please give me a call to discuss your requirements
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07983645218 / 01562 910030
Bewdley Book Week
9-14 September
This year's Bewdley Book Week programme starting September 9th includes nationally recognised writers as well as locals making their contribution to the literary scene. Michael Taylor qualifies under both headings. He's Dudley-born and writes hugely popular historical romances set in the Black Country. He'll be talking about the fact in his fiction. Both Elizabeth Chadwick and Niki Valentine won prestigious first novel awards. Elizabeth specialises in historical fiction and her novel To Defy a King is a bestseller. Niki has the distinction of bestselling with two debut novels under different names in different genres. Her latest is Possessed.
Celia Robertson
Phil Rickman and Simon Furman both have nationally-recognised writing 'brands'. Phil for the Merrily Watkins and John Dee series and Simon for his contributions to graphic novels including Transformers and Dr Who.
If poetry is your thing, Roger Elkin has scores of poetry prizes and awards under his belt. He'll be reading from his latest collection Marking Time.
Three of our speakers have strong Bewdley connections. Jock Gallagher's book is about the 'staggering contributions' to the world made by Scots and Heather Flack's is a collection of historical vignettes based in the Wyre Forest. Celia Robertson was brought up here and will discuss her acclaimed biography describing her grandmother's journey from teenage Bloomsbury Set poet to Nottingham down-and-out.
Local children's writer Helen Wendy Cooper talks to 2-5 year-olds about Shape Land and Hereford-based Bruce Johns describes his 'exploration of family place and self' that will appeal to anybody who has ever researched their family tree. Full details of all the speakers and their talks can be found at: http://bewdleybookweek.org.uk
Tickets at Bewdley Tourist Information Centre (0845 6077819) or online - with a ÂŁ1 per ticket admin fee - from http://adbooker.worcesternews.co.uk/store
Bewdley Book Week
9-14 September
Out and About with Gary
Bewdley in Bloom
Bewdley regatta
Out and About with Gary
Bewdley horse show
Trimpley heavy horse show
Bewdley Cherry Festival
Crowds attracted to July’s two day Cherry Festival in Bewdley Museum were entertained by music in the park as well as stalls selling craft items, cherry produce and cherry trees. The cherry pie competition was won by Clare Golborne and Mark Payne of the Packhorse. The Festival is a celebration of the town’s historical relationship with the fruit and recalls a time when Bewdley was a major cherry producer.
Bewdley and District Horticultural Show
Nearly 600 people flocked to the newly refurbished St. George’s Hall for August’s Horticultural Show. A fantastic entry from 40 members in 95 different classes produced a show to remember.
Both judges and visitors were impressed with the very high standard on display, enhanced by the magnificent work of Bewdley Floral Art. See page 25 for Cup Winners.
Guerilla Gardening Strikes Bewdley
New gardens are popping up in Bewdley in derelict and abandoned places. St Anne's has a vegetable and herb plot opposite the Co-op, where you are invited to pick the produce, plant extras and pull any weeds. All this in a previously unloved piece of land, full of rubbish and a straggly buddleia. Now people take their rubbish elsewhere.
Tubs in the Westbourne Street car park host herbs, vegetables and flowers after a dormant few years since the council stopped tending them. Vacant tubs of weeds are still there if you are drawn to plant and maintain them. The Council do an excellent job brightening up the bigger spaces and it’s great to see people supplementing their work with both edible and flowering plants.
Look around the town to spot those small neglected areas waiting to be transformed. We could have a surprise around every corner. Sheila Lowe
Community News
‘If the shoe fits…’ exhibition in Bewdley Museum until 22nd September
‘Wonderful people, wonderful shoes… An unusual and fascinating insight into peoples’ lives… Inspiring…. Loved the stories… Made us think about the story of our own shoes… Such a very moving exhibition and real food for thought… How amazing are the journeys people take in their lives… Very inspiring and humbling… Thought provoking… An insight into our social history… Left wanting to know even more about the people behind the shoes… Super surprise, unique… What memories… The children really enjoyed trying on grown up shoes… Amazing how shoes travel through generations and the world… reminded me of our wedding… ordinary shoes with extraordinary stories… I wouldn’t have believed shoes could say so much… I can’t remember being affected so deeply by something so seemingly simple’.
Comments such as these left by visitors since the exhibition opened in July explain why being a steward is always a pleasure and often a privilege. If you would like to be part of the welcome offered to visitors and have a couple of hours to spare, please ring 01299 403745 or email gillwarnett@gmail.com And, of course, do visit yourself.
Bewdley Tennis Club
Bewdley Civic Society
Ideal for beginners and returners
7.30pm Wednesday September 18th St. George’s Hall
term time tennis for women 10 week course 9.30-11.30am starts Monday September 16th. £35.00 racquets provided
A History Of Sugar and The Kidderminster Factory
Tel Geoff 07838236691
Non Members Welcome
Mass in Blue
Will Todd’s toe-tapping Jazz Mass
featuring The Andy Williamson Buzztet and the Wolverhampton Chamber Choir St Anne’s Church Bewdley Sunday 13th October 10.30am
Free entry - Part of the 2013 Bewdley Festival
Further details contact Revd Keith James – 01299 402275 29
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Specialist Services
For all domestic electrical work and general house maintenance. Extra sockets and lighting, inside or out, new or replacement circuits, or electrical condition reporting. No job is too small, call John Fletcher, on 01299 403 759 or 07882 538 709 for a free, no obligation quotation E-mail. bewdleyelectrica@gmail.com
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Planting Plans Pergolas Pruning Water features Patios Walls and fences Phone: 01299 400465 Mob :07866 964427
Community News
Thoughts from the Secret Gardener
Well, we have been preparing for the Bewdley Horticultural Society Annual Show for a year and now it has been and gone!
What a show it was though. Our new St George’s Hall made its first public appearance and what a stunning venue it is. All those people who have worked so hard for so long must be thrilled with the outcome. The hall is simply splendid and when it was decked out with all the flowers, fruit, vegetables, domestic creations, craftwork and floral art it was quite some sight! Congratulations to all the exhibitors. Despite a tricky year in the gardens, the standard was very high indeed. The creativity of the floral artists remains boundless. It is good to see how the gardens have recovered from the hot, dry weather. The lawns have greened up nicely. Of course, it is that time of the year when the gardens turn green too as the early summer colours fade and the autumn shades are not yet with us. Late summer colour is tricky to get in the small garden. I like to edge the lawns after mowing. I usually have the edging shears pointing to the left but the grass gets used to this, so I have turned them to the right and it gives a lovely crisp finish again!
Bewdley and District Horticultural Society Annual Flower, Vegetable and Floral Art Show Congratulations to the Cup Winners of 2013 George Williams Cup Tom Hall Frank Hayden Cup Meg Clay Frost Cup Graham Link Norman Webb Cup Don Ray E A Hughes Memorial Cup Tom Hall C Alston Cup John Lloyd Clift Cup Adam Greathead C R G Farmer Cup Adam Greathead Rosette Freya Mimchin Rosette Jacob Chater Rosette William Chater The Hollows Nursery Cup Jacob Chater Bewdley Council Rose Bowl Tom Hall The Mayor’s Cup Diane Chater Banksian Medal Meg Clay Mrs C R G Farmer Cup Sally Porter 31
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Does your garden need a fresh approach? Judy Knight is a Pershore-trained garden designer who has created and built many local gardens, from initial consultation and design to landscaping and planting, with her own team of skilled landscapers. If you’d like to transform your outdoor space, call now to arrange your free initial consultaltion. “Friendly, professional service would recommend to anyone!”
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PODIATRIST/CHIROPODIST (EX-NHS) HEALTH PROFESSIONS COUNCIL REGISTERED Mark Foster BsC (Hons 1st Class – Podiatry) MChs Retention No: CH14729 Home visiting Chiropody Service – Discounts for couples/groups Surgical Treatment for Ingrowing Toenails Available Biomechnanical Examination and Treatment including : Plaster Casting Bespoke Orthotic Manufacture Joint mobilisation/manipulation also available H: 01299 266186 M: 07941 138957 markfosterpodiatry.co.uk
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SJS Interiors
Professionally made curtains and roman blinds
Made to measure Commercial or Domestic For a free no obligation quote Contact Sarah at sjs7interiors@gmail.com or call
07760 559666
The deadline for the October issue
is the 10th September
A warm welcome for you at Bewdley Methodist Church
Join us for worship every Sunday morning at 10.30 in our lovely old church on High Street, next to the Jubilee Gardens entrance. Our services last about an hour and, once a month, children and grandchildren enjoy their own lively Sunday Club. See www.bewdleymethodists.org.uk
Weekday activities this September Tuesday 10th: 7.30pm House Fellowship – we start a new series of study evenings Thursday 12th: 2.00-4.00pm Knit & Natter Tuesday 17th: 10.00am Walking Group
To find out more about any of our activities or to enquire about baptism or marriage, please contact our new minister Revd Phil Hoar Tel 826641 Phil’s first service with us is our Harvest Festival at 10.30am on Sunday 29th September
Did you know? For administrative and financial purposes, the Methodist year begins on 1 September (that’s why ministerial changeovers happen this month). So Happy New Year from all of us! 33
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St. Anne’s C of E Primary School, Wyre Hill, Bewdley DY12 2UQ Telephone:Telephone: 01299 401871 Mobile: 07964096764 07964096764 www.communitycornerpreschool.co.uk Open Monday to Friday, 9.00a.m. to 3.00p.m., during school term time. Children accepted from 2½ years to 5 years. Our new room ‘TOTS’Funded provides a gentler start child’s pre-school experience places offered forto3your & 4 year olds. Funded places offered for 3 & 4 year olds Exceptionally highly qualified & experienced staff. Judged Ofsted “Outstanding” June 2008 & January 2009
B. Ince
For further enquiries or to arrange a visit to see our fantastic indoor & outdoor facilities please call the number. Bridge Ad above Mar 11:Quarter page.dat
Funeral Director
Telephone: 01299 403105
Soul Essence
Private Chapel of Rest
Bea
Bank House Severnside South Bewdley, Worcestershire
uty & Holistic Therapies Est. since 2001
• Professional Beauty & Mobile Service • Organic Facials • Waxing – Pedicures – OPI Manicures • Eyebrow & Eyelash Treatments. • Massage – Reflexology – Hot Stone Therapy • One to One Stretch & Tone Sessions
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Mrs Darley’s Herbal Bewdley Museum
Loose Leaf Teas & Herbs - Tea Ware Facial, Hair & Body Care Bach Flower Remedies - Essential Oils Incense - Gifts & Cards ‘Mrs Darley’ Books - Talks - Workshops Reiki Courses Shop On-line: www.arcanus.co.uk/shop.php Telephone: 07977096257
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Tel: 01299 409190 M:07813 776263
Bewdley Museum
Community News
As part of the Bewdley Youth Festival, local schools have created pieces of artwork and short stories, based on current research being carried out into late Medieval Bewdley. These will be displayed in the Severn Gallery during September and October. ‘If the shoe fits...’ has already proved to be a very popular exhibition in the Wyre Forest Gallery. It runs until 22nd September and after a short changeover period, the Bewdley Festival Exhibition opens on 28th September. This year, artist Angela Gladwell, will be showing a varied mixture of water colours and oil paintings as well as some prints. Her inspiration takes many forms, she has a lifelong interest in natural history and is fascinated by water and beaches. The programme of craft and education courses continues with one of Carole Carlton’s popular workshops, this month she explores the history, myth and legend behind the harvest festival and the often misunderstood festival of Halloween. Participants will make a simple corn dolly, which is believed to bring abundance in the year to come. Many visitors may have already met ragrugging tutor Sandra Shakespeare at one of our events, but for those of you who would like to have a go yourselves, Sandra is offering a one-day course on 21st September.
With children returning to school this month, there will once again be a stream of ‘Evacuees’ walking to Bewdley Station. Having had a talk to set the scene, children visit the Museum’s genuine Air Raid Shelter accompanied by staff and volunteers. This experience, combined with the evacuation train to Highley, gives them a broad insight into what it was like to be a child during World War 2. For details of the above and opening times please refer to our website www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/museum or phone 0845 603 5699.
Bewdley Chamber Maids
Saturday 26th October Pumpkin Day • As usual there will be a market on the riverside. Bookings now being taken from stall holders. Everyone is welcome but particularly food producers and growers.
• Pumpkin Competition. Please decorate a pumpkin to look like a celebrity. Could still be a lantern. Three categories: shops and businesses, children, stall holders
Saturday 30th November Bewdley Christmas Lights Festival • Bookings now being taken from stall holders and entertainers. All participants welcome
• Helpers are needed to support this large town event. If you can spare any time on Friday, Saturday or Sunday during the Christmas Lights weekend, we would love to hear from you. Many thanks
Ann 01299 404226 lymanhughes34@aol.com Maggie 01299 404065 maggiedalloway@hotmail.com Cally 01562 850155 orchidscorner@hotmail.com 35
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Private Nursery for 2 – 5 year olds
Wribbenhall Community Centre Shaw Hedge Road, Bewdley
Large and secure natural garden Monday & Friday 8.00am – 4.00pm; Tuesday & Thursday 8.00am – 1.15pm £3.50 per hour 3 and 4 year olds receive Nursery Educational Funding 15hrs per week (free) Promotional offer:- Buy 15 hours and get an extra three hours free of charge, offer includes children in receipt of NEF funding For more information contact Sharon on 07837295698 Or visit our website at www.inbtweenies.co.uk
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Community News
Joy, expectation, and then heartbreak. Being a Kidderminster Harriers supporter last season was tough.
Seventeen Saturday mornings of Dad rushing us out of the door to ensure that we make kick-off, Mum relishing a quiet afternoon alone, and my own psychological preparation for the 90 minutes of emotional torment ahead.
The first six weeks were hard. Ten games without a win, and already the feeling that the season would be a relegation scrap. Despite this we continued to follow the same ritualistic Saturday routine and be ever present at Aggborough stadium. After much squad rotation and formation change, eventually the results started coming. Unbeaten in 32 of the remaining 36 games, Kidderminster Harriers were very quickly all everyone was talking about. Suddenly the club from the small town in Worcestershire were being compared to the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid because of this tremendous run of form. Title talk was emanating from Aggborough as if One Direction were in town!
Unfortunately, luck wasn’t with the Harriers, as we were beaten to the title by two points. Despite our 93 points, Mansfield finished higher in the league table and obtained the sole automatic promotion place. All hope wasn’t lost just yet - all the reds needed to do was beat Wrexham over two legs in the play-off semi-final, something very possible after beating them twice out of two games already during the season. After a 90th minute penalty resulted in a 2-1 defeat in the first leg, the pressure was on for the Harriers to get a result on Aggborough’s sacred turf. The hours leading up to kick-off were more like decades. We sat in silence around the table during our pre-match dinner. It felt like the last supper. The match was well battled, but it simply wasn’t to be. After a 5-2 defeat on aggregate, Kidderminster Harriers had finished the season without that elusive second promotion place. We were to stay in the Blue Square Premier.
But as they say, there’s always next season! The future looks bright for the reds. Manager Steve Burr has been successful in keeping the vast majority of last season’s squad, while also bringing in four new faces - two of whom arrive from the Football League. The recent friendly draw to League 1 outfit Port Vale also gives us fans optimism for the upcoming season. So from all us Harriers fans here in Bewdley, ‘Come on you reds!’ George Kowalik
Wribbenhall WI
Friends of Bewdley Museum
The next meeting for The Friends of Bewdley Museum World War 1 exhibition group will be on 2nd September at the Mayors Parlour at 5pm. Does your group have any information to offer or might you be able to help with research? Contact Liz Cowley at Bewdley Museum on 0845 6035699 or pennygriffiths@tiscali.co.uk
Talk by Alan Atkinson 'Letter Boxes'
9th September 2.00pm
Riverside Church, Dog Lane, Bewdley Friends and visitors always welcome.
37
01299 404474 or 01299 401009
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High Quality Fruit & Vegetables (inc seasonal produce, locally grown)
Fish, Eggs, Local Honey & Marmalade. Flowers for all Occasions (Special Orders Catered For)
Online ordering now available at www.bewdleyfarmshop.co.uk Register with us for regular FREE deliveries to your door
HEALTHY START vouchers accepted
Dog Lane • Bewdley • Worcs • DY12 2EF
: bewdleyfarmshop@btconnect.com
t :
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BEGINNERS TAEKWONDO
All Ages & Abilities Friday 5:30²7pm
Haybridge Sports Centre DY8 2XS
The deadline for the October issue is the 10th September 39
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“An Amazing Camping Experience”
Roaring campfires and the great outdoors combined with the cosiness of authentic native American Tipis.
Each tipi is furnished to provide comfort camping with an assortment of futons and camping beds, chairs and tables, rugs and throws. Also supplied are gas cooking stove, pans, crockery, cutlery and cold box. Each tipi has its own picnic table and external fire pit with cooking frame for that all important campfire.
So if you fancy a romantic weekend under the stars, an outdoor adventure with the family or somewhere for friends or relatives to stay, please get in touch! During your stay enjoy a delicious Artisan Pizza. Our Licensed Alfresco Pizzeria is open to campers and the general public from Easter to September – 6.00pm til 9.00pm every Friday & Saturday. So come and enjoy a new type of eating experience with friends & family!
Hopleys Family Camping Cleobury Road Bewdley DY12 2QL Tel: 01299 402173 or 07973135909 www.hopleyscamping.co.uk
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SINGLES “FRIENDS” CLUB
Specialist Services
01299 403309
Hi I am Paula Are you a Smart, Single Gentleman aged 60plus, 50plus or 40plus? Or lady, Widowed, Single or Divorced? Would you like to enjoy a Good Social Life again? Plus have the stimulation of meeting new Singles joining monthly? We enjoy meals out, 4/5 star holidays abroad, drinks evenings, dinner dances, theatre trips, concerts, shows spa breaks, coach trips, sea breaks plus lots of interesting events. etc., Our members include Managing Directors, Solicitors, Surveyors, Estate Agents plus people from All walks of life. You do need to be Well Mannered, Polite, Single, of Good Calibre and have a Kind Decent, Caring Pleasant, Helpful Personality with a Code of Honour to be accepted into this private club. All our members are interviewed and have Good Conduct Contracts. Ongoing and established since October 2011. You may join to be in a group of new friends or to find a new partner.
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TLC CARE AT HOME
is the alternative to residential care home
There comes a time when everyone needs help and support to maintain their independence and quality of life. TLC CARE AT HOME, are experts in delivering the right amount of care to suit you individual needs. It is no longer necessary to move into a care home; with the help of our highly trained team of professionals who are also experienced in live-in-care may be the solution for you. All our staffs are fully checked CRB/DBS.
Depending on your personal requirements, we can offer:
*Assist with all bedtime needs *Meals
*Full personal care
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*and much more.
This may not be as expensive as you think and you may be entitled to help with funding. Telephone 01299 272897 for more information or a brochure. 41
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Places available at Bewdley Primary School Nursery for Children aged 3+
• • • •
Bewdley Primary School Nursery is teacher led offering high quality, flexible and affordable pre-school and wrap-around care. The nursery is in Bewdley Primary School and has access to all the school facilities. 15 hours funded places plus additional sessions available. Combined wrap-around care and nursery sessions offers child care from 8.00am - 5.00pm daily in term time. Contact Bewdley Primary School on 01299 403796 Funding for up to an additional 15 hours of nursery or wrap-around care is available for those in receipt of certain benefits. Bewdley Primary School, Stourport Road, Bewdley DY12 1BL Helping everyone to achieve their best
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OF KIDDERMINSTER
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C W Commercial Finance Limited for all your financial needs
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Community News
WRIBBENHALL PARISH ROOMS REGISTERED CHARITY No 1139935
As St George’s Hall completes its major refurbishment and is well and truly open, on the other side of the river Wribbenhall Parish Rooms, another community facility in Bewdley, continues with its own upgrade. When these are completed, Bewdley will have not one but two high class halls for us all to use. The facilities are complementary so it should be possible to meet varying needs from festival and cinema events to badminton, dancing and Brownies. The latest news for Wribbenhall is that £28,500 in grants has been secured to fund phase 3 of the Parish Rooms’ refurbishment. •
£10,000 from Awards for All for replacement windows in the main hall
•
£10,000 from LEADER to create an outside courtyard
•
£8,500 from Welcome to our Future for roof insulation
Thanks to the people and organisations who believed in us, by the end of September 75% of the work to restore the Parish Rooms to their former glory will have been completed within a year. £25,000 has already been spent on a new toilet block with outside access and disabled facilities and £20,000 on rewiring and new central heating. Internal decoration has been completed by a team of volunteers.
The committee continues to apply for grants in order to complete the remaining work. Our aim is to hold a grand opening of a fully refurbished hall in 2015 to mark the centenary of this wonderful facility being given to the people of Wribbenhall.
Another £30,000 will enable us to modernise the kitchen, create storage space from the boiler room, sand and re-seal the hall floor, complete the window and door replacement, decorate the exterior and replace tables and chairs.
Please come and join us at our AGM on Monday 30th September 6.30pm and see the latest transformation of the hall. Anne Mace
Community Transport Helpline Update
Bewdley resident, Beverley Coldrick has been appointed the new Chief Officer of Community Transport, taking over from Vince Taylor who retired at the end of June. She hopes to improve support for elderly and disabled people living in the Wyre Forest area and is keen to start additional services such as lunch and social clubs. The helpline has two types of services available: a community car scheme where volunteers use their own cars to provide door to door transport; and a scheme for wheelchair users who can hire an accessible vehicle for single trips or holidays. Volunteers are the back bone of the organisation and, as always, CTH are in need of more. Beverley would be delighted to hear from you if you can help in any way or have fresh ideas for the service. Please call 01299 405832 for any further information To use Community Transport call 01299 405820. Bookings are taken Monday - Friday 9 - 1pm 45
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Spa Therapy Room Tel: 07910 281973
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PERSONAL COUNSELLING SERVICES Christine Holloway 01299 402545 CORST Accredited UKCP Reg www.personalcounsellingservices.co.uk Finding the joy in life is much easier said than done, or just remembering what used to make you smile or raise a chuckle can be difficult. Especially as life seems to be getting tougher. Asking for help is not a failure, it can take courage. But counselling for only a short while can make all the difference. I can't solve all the problems but I can help you think about them in a different or more positive way. Then change happens PEOPLE MOVE ON. Make peace with the past or present, so that it won't spoil life now. Give me a chance to help, visit my web site to see what is achievable.
Please get in touch to find out more or to arrange a home visit: Stourport 01299 827766
Worcester 01905 730670
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MARK WILLIAMS MIPW PROFESSIONAL WILLWRITER
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marion evans solicitors 67 High Street, BEWDLEY DY12 2DJ
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tel: 01299 402741
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for a free initial appointment contact:
marion evans or lynette atkinson family law including separation, divorce and issues involving children and finances.
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Open Views
Community News
Last year we had a lousy summer. Why I chose last year to have a Good Idea involving being outdoors I don’t know, but I did. I had just signed for a parcel at my door; the delivery man had said, ‘What a fantastic view!” and I realised that several of my Bewdley friends had pretty good views from their houses too, and only a few people ever got to see these. Why didn’t I get some of them to agree to show off their views for just one day in the year?
Well, for those of you who took part last September, you will know that people were wonderfully generous and agreed to share their view with others. And that Sunday in September was 2012’s one and only sunny day. We reckoned that getting on for a hundred people made their way round parts of the town they never knew were there, and saw some really stunning views. Not all were of distant horizons; some gave unexpected sights of rooftops and quaint old courtyards. What was particularly nice from my point of view was that everyone had a lovely time. I vowed to organise another Open Views in 2013. And I have. Do save September 29th starting at 10.45 for a chance to see Bewdley as you’ve never seen it before! It’s free; you just have to pick up a map from St Anne’s and get looking.
Margaret Ashmore
And of course, it’s going to be lovely weather.
Art Exhibitions and Family Events
Ticket for this year’s Bewdley Festival daytime and evening events continue to sell well, but there is even more to Festival. Art Exhibitions and Family Events are also important features of Festival. This year thanks to support from Severn Valley Railway there is a limited supply of less than half-price Family Tickets available for their Classic Vehicle Day on Sunday 13th October, giving freedom of the line and entry to the Engine House for two adults and up to four children, all for £20. On Saturday 19th there are free Farm Walks at Uncllys Farm in the Wyre Forest at 10.30am and 2.00pm including apple juice pressing and tasting. Back in Bewdley, there will be two Art Exhibitions. From 28th September until 17th November works by Angela Gladwell will be on display at the Wyre Forest Gallery in Bewdley Museum under the title “Close Encounters of the Varied Kind”. Angela was trained at the Royal College of Art and has taught art all her life. The inspiration for Angela’s work takes many forms and she has a particular fascination with anything to do with water and beaches. Over at Bewdley Library Gallery from 4th October to 8th November there will be an exhibition entitled “A Chinese Experience” featuring the work of local photographer Colin Hill. Colin is well known throughout the Wyre Forest area for his promotion and coverage of local events and organisations. His work has featured in local newspapers, regional magazines and both joint and solo exhibitions. Colin has been a long-time supporter of Festival and this year has been invited to feature his own work. Colin will be displaying images from a 22 day organised visit to China, featuring its culture, history and contrasting urban and rural environments. 49
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Community News
TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
TOWN COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 5th August 2013
Lord Baldwin Statue The Council heard there had been some discussion as to the possibility of erecting a statue to commemorate Lord Baldwin of Bewdley, three times Prime Minster of Great Britain and whose birthplace was Bewdley. His grandson, the present Lord Baldwin, was working with others including the Civic Society to consider the feasibility and cost of a statue and to canvass some ideas of where it might be sited for which planning consent would be required. The Town Council discussed the matter and thought it was a project that they would welcome.
St George’s Hall St George’s Hall Venue Management (the charitable partnership of Bewdley Development Trust, Bewdley Festival and the St George’s Hall Trustees), which was now running the Hall had written to ask for financial support from the Town Council. This was part of their overall public appeal for funds to equip it for maximum community use. It was agreed that rather than give a sum of money for general purposes the Council would look more favourably on being able to provide funds for specific items of expenditure eg furniture that might be needed. Further discussions would therefore take place before making any donation.
Wyre Forest Electoral Review The Local Government Boundary Commission was consulting on an electoral review of Wyre Forest District Council which would see the reduction in the number of District Councillors from 42 to 33. The Town Council agreed this proposal should be supported.
Bewdley Residents’ Flood Committee It was noted that this Committee had decided to disband but had agreed to give the small residue of their funds to the Council for use in alleviating future flooding or assisting with hardship caused by flooding. The Council gratefully accepted such sum.
Bewdley in Bloom Councillors agreed that the Bewdley in Bloom competition this year had been a great success and that the organisers should be thanked for the work they had done and that this message should also be conveyed to everyone who had participated. Future Town Council meetings Town Council meetings are held at The Guildhall at 7.30pm on the first Monday of each month unless stated otherwise. The next meetings are: 2nd September, 7th October, 4th November and 2nd December. Agendas and Minutes of Town Council and Planning Committee Meetings are posted on the Notice Boards outside the Mayor’s Parlour, in the Guildhall Entrance and by the Library Entrance and on the Town Council’s page of www.bewdley.org.uk Minutes are also available at the Library and at the Town Clerk’s Office. TOWN COUNCIL NEWS IS PRODUCED AND PUBLISHED BY BEWDLEY TOWN COUNCIL
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Bewdley Pet Supplies
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Piano Lessons, Preparation For Exams or Just For Fun, Any Age Welcome. Competitive Rates. Contact Wayne Elson on 01299 266150 or email wayneelson@tiscali.co.uk.
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Community News
Bewdley Townswomen
Bewdley/Wribbenhall Ladies’ Luncheon Club.
We meet on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm at Wribbenhall Community Centre, Shaw Hedge Road. The September meeting on Tuesday 24th, will be our Harvest Supper and auction of produce. We will have a fish and chip supper (order at the meeting) followed by the auction. Don’t forget to bring something to auction! New members and visitors are always welcome. For further information please phone 01299 401352
At the July meeting Janet Ince gave members an interesting talk entitled “In Living Memory”. We will welcome back Andrew Lound on 25th September, our Open Meeting, when he will speak on “When the Lights Went Out”. All ladies are welcome to attend our monthly meetings at the Mercure, so to book a place or to enquire please ring 400363.
Kidderminster Beekeepers Association
The Joint Honey Show with Hagley & Stourbridge and North East Worcestershire Beekeeping Associations will be held on Saturday 14th September at Hagley Free Church Hall, Worcester Road,Hagley. Any member wishing to enter can download an entry form and schedule from: www.bbka.org.uk/local/kidderminster. For further information please ring 01299 825578 or email m.dcooper@tiscali.co.uk.
The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning
Every year Macmillan Cancer Support benefits from people holding “The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning” in September. These started in 1990 and have grown every year. 115,000 people signed up to organise one in 2012 and nearly £15million was raised. All Saints Church, Bewdley Baptists and Anne and Jim Wilkinson are all hosting events this September to support this worthwhile charity. Saturday 21st September from 10.30am at All Saints’ Church Kidderminster Road Bewdley Cake Competition, Raffle, Face Painting, Crafts, Cakes for Sale plus many more stalls Friday 27th September 10.00am - 2.00pm at 15 The Covert, Domar Road, Kidderminster 01562 746750. Hosted by Anne and Jim Wilkinson of St. Leonard’s Church, Ribbesford.
Limited parking at the property, but public parking is available 3 minutes walk away on Habberley Road. Please phone if you need directions. The Covert is the Private Road at the end of Domar Road. Saturday 28th September 10.00am - 1.00pm at Bewdley Baptist Church cottage 61 High Street. Cakes etc to buy and jolly good coffee to drink. 53
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KAW Pet Boarding and Sitting
Pets boarded in our own home or sat in your own home For local friendly service call Mike on 07590 519099 or Kate on 07806 301328 or 01562 850888. Fully Insured - Petsitters Alliance Members/CRB cleared.
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At Canine Design we undertake the following grooming services for you pampered pooch: Bathing, Nail Clipping, Grooming, Trimming, Ear Cleaning
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We also offer a collection and safe-return service for your prized pet.
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S e pte m b e r i n t h e Fo r e st
September is the month when, with the days still warm (and in some years we have the best of the weather this month), summer shows that it is turning into autumn. The colours give it away: the oldest bramble leaves are turning orange and red while their prickly stems hold out juicy, purple fruits; rowan trees are decorated with bunches of orange berries, which are enjoyed by blackbirds and mistle thrushes; and, if the weather allows, we should see the strange shapes and colours of a variety of fungi appearing.
Heather will still be flowering in areas of the forest where the soil is dry and acidic, and where it is not shaded out by trees. Wyre has the ling rather than heath variety of heather (that is Calluna, not Erica). The forest has such a patchwork of habitats that you are bound to come across some heathland (or at least the ling, bilberry and other plants which indicate heathland) whichever path you take. However, it is decreasing across the country and for the sake of all the plants and animals (such as adders and lizards) that depend on it, has to be maintained by tree clearance and grazing or cutting of the shrubs.
This is the month when harvesting begins and two day courses at Uncllys Farm will both be using seasonal produce in different ways. At Juicing and Cider Making on 14th September, apples from local orchards will be used to show the process of scratting, pressing and pasteurising juice for a longer shelf life, and of course how to ferment the product to make your own cider. Then on 21st September Natural Dyes will be a day of experimentation, using materials from the garden, hedgerow and kitchen to dye fleece, homespun yarn and cotton using various dying techniques. The days cost £45 and £40 respectively and you can call 01299 488083 or info@wyreclt.org.uk for more information. 29th September is the date for Fungus Forays: 10.30am to 12.30pm from Earnwood car park, 2pm to 4pm from Hawkbatch car park. (Both of these car parks are on the B4194.) There will be a short stroll through the forest looking for the amazing variety of fungi, both large and small, that are so vital to our woodlands. £7 per person with an ID guide available for £4. Please book with the Forestry Commission’s Discovery Centre: call 01299 266929 or see the website www.forestry.gov.uk/wyreforest. If you can’t make these dates, there are two more walks on October 19th. Schools will be going back, so Forest Friends, for pre-school children and their carers, will again be meeting at the Discovery Centre at Callow Hill from 10am to 11am on Thursdays. The first Thursday of the month will be led by a Forestry Commission learning ranger (programme available) but on other Thursdays you can turn up and use the education enclosure and box of activities on a self-led basis. There is a small charge for this. Linda Iles
A Favourite Footpath
You don’t need to go far from Bewdley before you are in the forest. In fact, about half a mile, in my case. Here’s how: Go down Dry Mill Lane - drive, if you must; there’s a little car park at the end - which you will find if you follow The Lakes road to one of Bewdley’s very few corner shops.
Having reached the car park, walk not along the old railway track but downhill. Follow the unmade track and instantly you are in a world silent but for birdsong and running water, because you are going to follow Dowles Brook for the next mile. Watch out for dippers and kingfishers. I’ve spotted both, but you need to be very quiet and rather lucky. The trees are alive with squirrels and not infrequently you will hear a faint rustle. Look up and see three or four deer looking at you with that bored, "we were here first" expression before disappearing into the distance. By now you will have arrived at Dowles Mill, one of what used to be many small mills along the brook. Here you can choose to cross the bridge and, walking uphill along a thin path, reach the disused railway line. Turn left and it will bring you back to your starting place. That will be a two-miler. If you fancy something a little longer don’t cross the Dowles Mill bridge - though you may do a quick dash across to look at the little exhibition in the old building there - but carry on the track for another half mile or so.
And there is another mill. Cooper’s Mill now belongs to Birmingham Education Department. It was the scene of some horrifically basic stays by Birmingham children, but now has been beautifully modernised and is no longer a place to learn survival skills. There is some excellent information on boards.
Cross over the bridge just beyond the mill and carry on uphill on a rather thin path to meet the railway line. Turn left, of course, and you will be back to the start having walked three miles. Oh, and did I tell you about the carved bench?
A lovely walk in dripping rain, snow or hot sunshine. Margaret Ashmore