The Bridge May 2019
Planting for Hope Uganda Earlier this year, Bob Eaton from the Rotary Club of Bewdley visited 'Planting for Hope Uganda'. This charity in Kititi village was founded and is run by Kate Oakley, a retired teacher from Cookley. It's deep in the bush south of Kampala, in a desperately poor region lacking all the facilities we take for granted and was without education, opportunities for work, or medical care. But, thanks to Kate, the Charity has built and runs Cornerstone School and Hope House. The School is flourishing with new buildings, paid teachers and free schooling for children. The Bewdley High School via its Interact Club (junior Rotary) has developed a considerable bond with Cornerstone by fundraising and providing communal support. Hope House provides accommodation for the volunteers and houses the medical clinic for the Women's Cooperative (most of the men have died or left ). These Cooperative women are cheerful and just work and work and work to provide for their own and "lost" kids. The Rotary Clubs of Bewdley and Kinver have provided financial support and grants. The women now have twenty acres under cultivation, a pig farm, a chicken farm and goats. The aim of PfHU is to empower the community of Kititi by working with them to develop a self supporting sustainable future. There is still a great need for funds. Planting4hopeuganda@gmail.com. bewdleyrotaryclub.org.uk
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
It is almost a cliché that on first meeting someone socially the question soon gets asked, "What do/did you do?". Our jobs define us even when we no longer do them. And no sooner have I written that than I begin to wonder; do our jobs still have that meaning? After all, these days a person may have several quite different jobs in the course of a working life. I've met a lawyer who became a plumber then a youth worker, a teacher who took up nursing, a social worker who became a psychologist and a university lecturer who trained as an electrician. Sadly, sometimes it is ill-health that demands a change; sometimes it is because the person spots a chance to improve their life. What it does mean is that the neat pigeonholes we used to use back in the day simply aren't robust enough to hold any longer. There's another big change that nearly everyone faces in a working life and that's retirement. Again, that's changed over the years, what with improved health meaning we have ever longer to ignore the morning alarm clock. These days, a lot of life relies on volunteers from among the retired. They are needed to take up the slack of many jobs previously publicly funded. Often this is mutually beneficial; it can be hard to shrug off the skills we used to use daily. When using them without pay one can earn something well worth having - thanks from the recipients. And if you get fed up or don't like your boss - well, heigh-ho; no-one can make you stay! I meant to count the number of people I met during this week who were volunteering. I rather lost count. Oh, and you do know Martin, Gill and I do The Bridge because you are all nice to us, don't you? Science Fact of the Month: There are about 10,000 species of ants, and they are capable of actually switching tasks according to what needs doing. If extra food is available all the ants become foragers; if the nest is damaged they mend it. Margaret
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Delivery If you can help deliver please email editorial@bewdleybridge.org.uk Deliverers mostly take out fewer than 50 magazines. Reserve list is also useful. Printed by Vernon Print & Design mail@vernon-print.co.uk Cover photograph - Margaret Ashmore 3
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Introducing our Country Rover (CR) Tours on our new mini-bus DAY TOURS Sun 5 May Mon 6 May Thu 9 May Sat 11 May Tue 14 May 16 June 8 July 21 July 11 Aug 29 Aug 13 Sept 7 Oct 21 Oct 5 Nov 26/07/20
Henley on Thames & Marlow £19 Llandudno £20 Cricklade & Malmesbury Abbey £17 Melton Mowbray & Rutland Water £19 Dovedales & The Roaches CR £17
Sun 26 May Mon 27 May Fri 31 May Sat 1 Jun Wed 5 Jun
Poldark’s House & Tetbury £30 Ludlow & Carding Mill Valley £17 Brahms at Symphony Hall £40 Tissington Well Dressing, Buxton £19 Ross-on-Wye & Gloucester £17
QUALITY HOLIDAYS 2019
ST AGNES & PADSTOW 7 days £510 DRAMATIC NORTH DEVON & LUNDY 5 days £400 ISLE OF WIGHT 7 days £490 SCARBOROUGH & YORKSHIRE COAST 7 days £465 REIMS & CHAMPAGNE COUNTRY 5 days £480 LEWIS & HARRIS 7 days £680 TENBY & PEMBROKESHIRE 5 days £380 HARROGATE & THE YORSHIRE DALES 5 days £340 DEVON’S GOLDEN AUTUMN in SIDMOUTH 5 days £360 OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY 7 days £1210 Price includes dinner, bed and breakfast & excursions USUALLY PICKING UP WITHIN Tel 01299 402989 To Book / For Brochure / Private Hire WALKING DISTANCE OF YOUR (46 Sandbourne Drive, Bewdley, DY12 1BN) HOME Or visit www.phillipstravel.co.uk or Bewdley Tourist Information
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Community News
What’s
On
May 1 Scrabble Group Bewdley Baptist Church 10am - 12noon 1 International Dawn Chorus Day 2 Rock Pathfinders walk - see page 43 4 Plant sale and table top All Saints’ Church Wribbenhall 10am - 2pm - see page 43 5 Forget me not Sunday Holy Family 2pm - 4pm - see page 39 5 Bewdley Footpaths walk - see page 23 5 Music church All Saints’ Church Wribbenhall 3pm - 4pm 6 Cake Bake St Anne's Church 10am - see page 17 7 BC Lite St Anne’s Church 7.30pm - 9.30pm - see page 11 9 Knit & Natter Methodist Church, High Street 2 - 4pm 9 Together Group Lunch Wribbenhall Parish Room 12.30pm - see page 31 9 Live Wyres meeting - see page 33 11 Quiz Night Pound Green Village Hall 7.30pm - see page 43 11 Bewdley Tennis Club Open Day 1pm - 6pm - see page 25 11 Live Wyres meeting - see page 33 13 Bewdley WI St George's Hall 7.30pm - see page 39 13 Knit and Natter All Saints’ Church Wribbenhall 10am - 12noon 13 Bewdley Floral Art Club Wharton Park Golf and Country Club 7.30pm - see page 25 14 Book sale All Saints’ Church Wribbenhall 10am - 12noon - see page 43 14 Plastic Pollution Event St George’s Hall 7.30pm - see page 23 14 Live Wyres meeting - see page 33 16 Rock Pathfinders walk - see page 43 17 Fashion show Roland Hill Centre Kidderminster 18 Repair Café Bike Repair special St George’s Hall 10am - 2pm - see page 13 18 Live Wyres meeting - see page 33 19 Messy Church Bewdley Baptist Church 4pm - 6pm - see page 39 20 U3A meeting Kidderminster Harriers Social & Supporters Club 2pm - see page 33 20 Bewdley Horticultural Society Riverside Church, Dog Lane 7.30pm - see page 31 20 Knit and Natter All Saints’ Church Wribbenhall 10am - 12noon 21 Wribbenhall WI Wribbenhall parish rooms 2.30pm - see page 13 21 BCARA meeting St George’s Hall 7.30pm - see page 17 21 Live Wyres meeting - see page 33 23 Together Group outing - see page 31 24 -26 Beer Festival Bewdley Cricket Club - see page 43 25 Jumble sale Victory Hall Clows Top - see page 17 25 -31 Bewdley Bike week - see colour pages 28 Live Wyres meeting - see page 33 29 Bewdley/Wribbenhall Ladies’ Luncheon Club Mercure Hotel - see page 23 June 2 Bewdley Footpaths walk - see page 23 2 Forget me not Sunday Holy Family 2pm - 4pm -see page 39 8 Music in the Chapel concert Bewdley Methodist Church 2.30pm 8 Bewdley Carnival - see page 23 9 Gospelites evening Bewdley Baptist Church 6.30pm - see page 37 5
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WE’R E
Bewdley Church Servicesl
Church of England Parishes of Bewdley and Wribbenhall Rector: Rev Megan Gibbins On the first Sunday of every month at 10.30 am we hold a Holy Communion Service in one of our churches. On other Sundays, services are held at the following times: 9.30am 9.30am 11.15am 11.15am
All Saints’ Church, Wribbenhall St Anne’s Church, Load Street St Leonard’s Church, Ribbesford St Andrew’s Church, Button Oak (second Sunday of the month only)
Services usually last for about an hour and range from traditional to more modern to family. All Saints’, St Anne’s and St Leonard’s each have a children’s area. Separate organised children’s activities are available during the service in St Anne’s. Other services and events are held in our churches during the week – for more information see the calendar on our website : www.bewdleyparish.org.uk Wish to book a wedding at one of our churches? Please contact Paul Gibbins gibbins.paul@talk21.com to arrange an appointment. Thinking about Baptism? For St Anne’s and St Leonard’s come to a 9.30 am Sunday service at St Anne’s, for All Saints’ come to a 9.30 am Sunday service at All Saints’ – and we’ll chat over coffee.
Bewdley Baptist Church
Bewdley Methodist Church
High Street Sundays at 10am A relaxed style of worship with lively music for all ages. Sundays at 6.30pm: varied types of services. Church Office 01299 403267 www.bewdley.baptist.org.uk
High Street Sundays at 10.30am A warm welcome to all for traditional worship in a friendly atmosphere. Monthly Sunday Club for children. Revd Sue Levitt 01299 826641 www.bewdleymethodists.org.uk
Holy Family Catholic Church
Religious Society of Friends
High Street Sunday Mass at 8am For weekday masses, please see our noticeboard Local contact Deacon John O’Brien Parish Office 01299 822633 www.stwulstanstourport.org.uk
(Quakers) Meeting House Lower Park
Sunday 10.30-11.30am A quiet, contemplative form of worship, with occasional ‘spoken ministry’. Children’s Meeting have their own activity before joining in the Meeting. www.bewdleyquaker.org.uk
Riverside Church St George’s Hall, Load St. Sundays at 10.30 Friendly and fun for all regardless of age or background, our family service lasts for about an hour and a half and has both modern and traditional worship followed by a short time of easy to follow bible teaching. www.riversideelim.com 7
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Food Glorious Food Steak & Wine night Wednesdays 6-9pm £25.00 for two people: 2 steaks, wine & all the trimmings.
DELICIOUS Sunday Lunches 12-
5pm
Senior Citizen Two Course Lunch Mon to Sat great value: 2 courses only £9.95 FAMILY roast chicken £30 (booking req’d) Outside catering for Parties, Wakes and Weddings. Pig roast also available for hire. PRIVATE HIRE for special occasions. Large parties catered for.
bookings@thehoppolebewdley.co.uk www.thehoppolebewdley.co.uk Hop Pole Lane • Bewdley • DY12 2QH • 01299 401295
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Church News l
May in St Anne’s Church Sunday 12th, 19th, 26th: We meet at 09.30 for worship (with separate children’s activities) followed by coffee. On Sunday 5th May we meet at 10.30 in Wribbenhall Parish Rooms. Mondays: The church is closed Tuesdays - Saturdays We are usually open from 10.00 – 14.00 for teas, coffees, the Traidcraft shop and a space to chat, meet friends or just think. Other weekly events: Tuesdays: 09.30 – 11.30 Rugrats (mothers and toddlers). Wednesdays: 10.15 short prayer meeting (first Wednesday in the month is a service of Holy Communion). 12.00 – 14.00 Chess Club. 19.45 – 21.15 Bell ringing practice. Saturday: 8.15 praying for the community and church. For more details / information see our website: www.bewdleyparish.org.uk (click on ‘calendar’ and ‘notices’)
A warm welcome from Bewdley Baptist Church Our church runs a number of regular events during the week: ✦ Noah’s Ark - for parents and toddlers. ✦ Who Let The Dads Out - second Saturday of the month for dads and toddlers ✦ Messy Church - family fun on the third Sunday of the month 4-6pm. ✦ Art Group - a quiet place to paint and draw. ✦ Circle of Friends - an afternoon meeting for ladies. ✦ Eat-Chat-Enjoy - second Tuesday of the month. Open to all. ✦ Bible Study and Prayer Groups ✦ Discipleship Groups ✦ House Groups ✦ 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
You are invited to join us at Riverside Elim Rivertots – Every Monday 9.15am - 11.30am All are welcome, just turn up. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, hot drinks available and meet other parents. A safe and enjoyable place for your children to come and play. Limitless Youth – Friday 7.30 – 9pm for 11 to16s A night of fun games and laughter. Every Wednesday we meet to let off a bit of mid week steam with our high school students. The night is relaxed with a monthly theme. Coffee Morning - Every Wednesday 10am - 12 noon Love Coffee - Love People Followed by Wednesday Church 12.30pm to 2pm. Worship, Prayer and Bible Study. Everyone welcome. For further info contact admin@riversideelim.com, call the office on 01299 405535 or visit www.riversideelim.com 9
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Sunshine Would you like to get more? The Algarve is only a 3 hour flight away and gets over 300 days of sunshine a year Rent a fully serviced apartment in beautiful Lagos or Buy a quarter share ownership of a house with views of the beach in a managed resort, and stay for up to 13 weeks each year (rotating occupancy) Interested? Email roy.lowerhouse@btinternet.com or phone 07768 304507
The longest existing holistic & beauty salon in Bewdley 5 beautiful treatment rooms ready for all your needs. All massage and holistic treatments, lashes, extensions, Elemis facial specialist, personal waxing, spray tans and vertical sunbed available and so much more. Spa packages teen treats, pregnancy bed. 47 Load Street, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 2AP
01299 400 430 • adamandevesspa@yahoo.com at Adam & Eve’s Day Spa
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AKY’S Window Cleaning & Gardening Services
Severnside School of Dancing
‘No house too big or small’
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 Like us in Facebook
Patios and Drives cleaned Fascias and Guttering cleaned Gardening work undertaken Conservatories cleaned Give Jason call on
07967 152948 - Anytime 01299 877127 - Evenings
The deadline for the
HIGH QUALITY
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The Bridge is
From NEIL KEARNS Free Quotations 01299 402726 or 07989 058513
10th May 10
Church News l
All Saints’ Church Kidderminster Road Wribbenhall Sat 4th May Plant Sale & so much more! 10am - 2pm Sun 5th May Benefice Service 10.30am in the Parish Rooms Music Church for all ages 3 pm Mon 6th May Compline at 7 pm Mon17th June 'Bonmarche' fashion show in the Roland Hill Centre Kidderminster. Ticket only £6 each available from Church or Monday Group Knit and Natter group meets every Monday except Bank Holidays 10 - 12
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) We meet every Sunday at 10:30am at our historic Meeting House.You are welcome to join us in our special silence. Why not hire our Meeting Hall? Phone 01299 405214 or 075120 55570 - State of the art overhead digital projector and sound system - Broadband internet for video streaming, free WiFi - Modern kitchen facilities www.bewdleyquakers.org.uk
You're welcome at Bewdley Methodist Church We meet for worship at 10.30am each Sunday Sunday May 19th at 10.30am 224th Church Anniversary Celebration led by Revd Dr Peter Levitt Our next Music in the Chapel concert will be an Organ Recital by Will Peart Saturday June 8th at 2.30pm (Tickets £8.00) To enquire about baptism, marriage or funerals please contact Revd Sue Levitt 01299 826641 www.bewdleymethodists.org.uk
Holy Family Catholic Church Bewdley Within the parish of St. Wulstan and St. Thomas of Canterbury Stourport on Severn Situated on the High Street, this delightful Palladian Grade II* listed church was built circa 1778 and adopted by the Catholic Church in 1951. The church is open daily for quiet prayer and reflection. Also based here is the Bewdley conference of the St.Vincent de Paul Society, a charity that works with those in need in the area. PARISH PRIEST: Fr. Richard Sharples Parish Office: 01299 822633 11
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Community News
Bewdley Library The financial year has just finished and our final year statistics have been collated. We're pleased to note that Bewdley Library's visitor, issue and active borrowers figures are all up on last year and the year before. Not bad I think in the confines of a small library in a small town with two larger libraries nearby to compete with. As most of you will now be gearing up for your annual vacation we will be bringing in a large number of travel guides from other libraries around the county to complement our own selection. Though the internet has reduced the demand, or even made obsolete some sections of non-fiction, travel guides have maintained their popularity amongst holiday goers. This may be a long term attraction to the format or more probably their handiness and convenience to use abroad when it may not always be suitable to use the internet. June sees the start of the annual national Summer Reading Challenge for children aged 4-12 years. We will be looking for teenagers to volunteer to help during the summer holidays. So if you know any young people who would be interested in volunteering for approximately an hour a week in the library they will be rewarded with listening and chatting to younger children in the community, develop their own confidence and skills and it's great experience for personal statements and CVs! Contact library staff for more information. Jonathan Halsall Bewdley Choral Society introduces
BC Lite Bewdley Choral Society is launching a new initiative this summer. BC Lite is a series of 8 workshops, open to anyone who would like to learn to sing popular music and songs from the shows in a relaxed and friendly environment. For this inaugural series, the workshops are free and will be held on Tuesday evenings throughout May and June, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in St. Anne’s Church, with the first session scheduled for Tuesday 7th May. The programme for this term will focus on songs from movies and musicals working towards a public concert on Saturday 6th July. No previous singing experience is necessary, so if you fancy singing music from West Side Story, The Greatest Showman or Queen as well as loads more like that, just come along on Tuesday nights and have fun! Any questions contact Jim Ineson on 01299 405645 or jim.ineson@gmail.com 13
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Community News
Transition Bewdley Repair Café: “On yer bike again!” Following the success of the bike workshop last year, the May 2019 Repair Café will, in addition to the usual tool sharpening and repairs, host a special bike workshop as part of the preparation for the Bewdley Bike Week which runs from 25th to 31st May. Dust off your bikes and bring them along to the Repair Café for a safety check by Volunteers from the Wyre Forest Cycle Forum. They will be joining our regular team of volunteer repairers and will adjust brakes, gears etc. to make sure your bike is working efficiently. Other repairs such as mending punctures and replacing brake blocks etc. will be carried out and expert advice given on how you can carry out your own repairs and maintenance in future. You can then join in Bewdley Bike week and perhaps reduce your carbon footprint by using your bike instead of the car for shorter journeys. Incidentally one of our volunteers has calculated that each year the work of Bewdley Repair Café is saving over 13 tonnes of Carbon dioxide from going into the atmosphere. More of that in future editions of The Bridge. The May Repair Café is on Saturday 18th. May at St. Georges Hall, Bewdley from 10am – 2pm and we look forward to welcoming all our visitors coming with a range of items to repair and sharpen. Any queries or offers to volunteer, please contact John Rhymer on 01299 403424. For more information on Bewdley Bike Week go to www.bewdleybikeweek.info Repairing our Community one puncture at a time!
Wribbenhall WI meets in Wribbenhall Parish Room Kidderminster Road, Bewdley DY12 1DQ 21st May: ‘King Edward I – Hammer of Scots’ with Max Keen An open fundraising meeting at 2.00pm for a 2.30pm start. Max was a sell out at the Bewdley Festival last year. With sword, maille, helm and authentic surcoat and shield, he will unravel the complex character that was Edward Plantagenet. A limited number of tickets are available to non members and visitors. £7 including refreshments with the obligatory WI Cakes. Admission by ticket only. Email: wribbenhallwi@gmail.com We now have have nearly 50 members. Do come and join us! 13
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Community News
You Can Help Shape The Future of St George’s Hall The recent consultation on future development of St George’s Hall confirmed how much the Hall means to the people of Bewdley. It also generated lots of creative ideas ranging from ways to increase what we can do for young people to extending the building to offer more café space and a kitchen which can be hired with the Main Hall. The trustees are now working on a development plan to see how these aspirations might be met. What the Trustees have also identified is the need to ensure that the community is fully represented and that the Board has the range of skills needed to run the Hall in the best possible way. This an exciting time. We are seeking 2 people with energy and enthusiasm to join the Board. This is a voluntary role without pay or expenses. Day to day operation of the Hall is the responsibility of our paid part time team who answer to the Board. The Board sets the policies and decides on the future direction of the Hall and its facilities. Could this be you? You can find out more about the Hall by visiting our website at www.thehall-bewdley.org.uk and you can ring the Hall Manager, Jane, on 01299 400110 to arrange a chat. Anyone wishing to be considered as a Trustee should apply in writing to the Chairman (Paul Warnett) c/o St George’s Hall, Load St., Bewdley, DY12 2EQ by 30th May 2019 BCARA, the new residents’ group covering Bewdley’s Conservation Area will hold its second General Meeting on May 21 at 7.30pm in St George’s Hall. The Executive Committee will report back on the extensive list of meetings they have already had with key members and officers of the town, district and county councils as well as West Mercia Police. BCARA Chair, Jacky Griffin, says: “We’ve had a very hectic and amazingly successful first six months and it’s clear we are meeting a real need for residents of the conservation area. We are now looking for more people to join the executive.” Anyone interested should contact Mrs Griffin on chair@bewdleycara.org.uk
Jumble Sale Saturday May 25th Victory Hall Clows Top 10.30 till 12noon
Children’s Society Cake Bake and teas
Entry only 20p! Tea & Cakes For more details
Wonderful cakes available to eat or purchase
Contact Cate 01299 402151 or Judy 01299 405476
St. Anne’s Church Monday 6th May 10am to 4pm.
Held in aid of Save the Children 19
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JEM GROVES Painter & Decorator High Quality workmanship Home 01562 637609
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The Bridge is 10th May 20
Community News
Bewdley Museum The museum is well into the new season and has had a record breaking number of visitors so far. Our new café, The Garden Kitchen has settled in well and you can see their extensive menu on facebook, @bewdleygardenkitchen We have a varied programme of events and activities planned including: Spring Bank Holiday Activity Programme - Monday 27 May- Friday 31 May, Craft activities for children. 11am-3.30pm, £4 per person. All children must be supervised. Regular activities and groups include: Yoga, Tuesdays 6.30-7.30pm and Thursdays 6.45-7.45pm, email amy.smith@wyreforestdc.gov.uk to go on the waiting list, spaces still available on Thursday. Wednesday night workshop Crochet with Love is proving very popular so we are launching a Thursday night or a Day time sessions. Please contact Amanda Peplow on 01562 732967 or email Amanda.peplow@wyreforestdc.gov.uk if you are interested. Fitsteps Dance - Thursday 5.45-6.30pm Spaces available. Just turn up! Gentle Dance, Mondays 10-11am and 11-12noon, email gill.edwards@wyreforestdc.gov.uk Forging memories: We have received a grant from the West Midlands Museum Development Small Grant scheme under its Audience Development Fund and we are developing a programme of activities for people who live with dementia. It will also enable access for other disadvantaged groups of people. If you are interested in any Dementia activities please contact on 01562 732967or email Amanda.peplow@wyreforestdc.gov.uk Upcoming exhibitions and Events Feathers and Fur 2019 4th May to the 2nd June An exhibition of watercolour and charcoal wildlife pieces by professional local artist Sarah Stokes. Sarah will be running workshops to accompany this exhibition on the 11th, 12th, 25th and 26th May. Please contact Sarah on 07966 292266 to book or via www.sarahstokesartist.co.uk. Outdoor Theatre Returns to Jubilee Gardens! Saturday 15th June - Gangsta Granny, a David Walliams Production All performances start at 5.30pm, doors open at 5pm for tickets on the day. Tickets available online www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/bookings or from Bewdley Museum any day between 10 4.30pm. Amy Smith Leisure Development Officer
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We Do Services Ltd trading as
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Gas Heating & Plumbing Installation, Servicing & Maintenance Corgi Reg No 211096
Natural Gas, LPG & Oil Call Mark on 01299 401329 or 07760 451584 for a reliable service
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 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: Kirkj07@outlook.com 21
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Bewdley Carnival Saturday 8th June The Bewdley Carnival committee are busy making arrangements for this year's Annual Carnival. If you require a pitch on the Carnival Field the cost is £10.00 in advance or £15.00 on the day. To book a pitch please ring Martyn on 07904 813979. If you are interested in joining in the parade with a float or walking group, please ring Jess on 07508 255458. For any further information please ring Sue on 01299 401841.
Female Genital Mutilation We need to talk about FGM! Half day conference St George’s Hall Load St, Bewdley DY12 2EG Saturday 22nd June 2019 9.30 - 13.00 Tickets £7.50 (to include tea & coffee) Speakers from the fields of Police, Health Professionals and Safeguarding Keynote Speaker : Gillian Squires, Home Office advisor on FGM To book a place Email: kidderminstersorop@gmail.com Phone: 07817 808320 Event organised by Kidderminster & District Soroptimists
Tuesday 14th May 2019 by Transition Kidderminster & Transition Bewdley at St George’s Hall, Bewdley Free Entry 7.30pm
Bewdley/Wribbenhall Ladies Luncheon Club In March, we had an enlightening talk by Caroline Hall, on the subject of Women in the First World War. On 29th May we welcome Mr. John Campion, West Mercia Crime Commissioner, in what is sure to be a very interesting talk. All ladies are very welcome to join us at the Mercure Hotel, either as a guest or a new member. Please ring our secretary, who will be very pleased to give you all the details of this and our other activities, on 01299 877908. We look forward to seeing you.
Bewdley Footpaths Meets in the garden on the east side of the river just below Bewdley bridge at 1.45pm for a prompt start at 2pm. 5th May Snuffmill Dingle Approx 4/5 miles. Moderate walk. 2nd June Wassell Wood Approx 5 miles. Strenuous walk 25
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QUALITY PLASTERING SERVICES BEWDLEY All ASPECTS OF PLASTERING UNDERTAKEN NO JOB TOO SMALL RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT SERVICE FOR FREE QUOTATION CONTACT JACK REEVES 07890 292791 ALSO DAMP PROOFING AND CELLAR CONVERSIONS FAMILLY FAMILY BUSINESS OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE VISIT US ONLINE- WWW.INDOORCLIMATESOLUTIONS.CO.UK OR CALL THE SNUFF MILL WAREHOUSE 01299 403 893 TRUSTMARK APPROVED
STEPHEN GOFFE GARDEN SERVICES
SG Gardening Maintenance
SPECIALISTS IN:GARDEN MAINTENANCE GRASS CUTTING AND GARDEN RENOVATIONS
With over 10 years experience. All gardening aspects of work undertaken, No job too big or too small. For a friendly and reliable service call Stuart.
For Fast & Friendly Service contact: M: 07512 589665 or T: 01299 402622
Garden Maintenance Professional Pruning Weed control Tree surgery Pressure cleaning Free Estimates Qualified & Insured SG Gardening Maintenance 12 Shrubbery Close, Cookley, DY10 3UH
Green Leaf LANDSCAPES & DESIGN Kevin Hayes N.C.H.(Pershore)
Planting Plans
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Pruning Water features Patios Walls and fences Phone: 01299 400465 Mob :07866 964427
Tel: 01562 261003 Mob: 07900474049 24
Bewdley Bike Week 25th - 31st May 2019 (half term holiday) Bewdley Bike Week brings us a whole week of activities designed to encourage all to discover, enjoy and benefit from cycling in our local area. GET READY on Saturday 18th May for a Bewdley Repair Café’s Bike special - get basic repairs sorted for free to get you ready to roll during the full week of cycling action ahead including: - Bewdley Bike Jam on Bank Holiday Monday: A day packed with activities, Jubilee Gardens. Including demo bikes, coaching, ultimate skills track, free check and tune service, security marking, special cycle challenges and heaps of info and help for cycling in and around Bewdley. - Rail and ride - Bewdley Bike Week have teamed up with Severn Valley Railway to take you and your bike on the train for a fantastic historic adventure! Ride the train and explore our beautiful local National Cycling Network at the fantastic price of just £5 per ticket WOW! - Social rides for experienced and novice riders. Join us on a guided ride of either 20 or 60 miles through our beautiful countryside. 60mile ride includes some tough challenges whilst the 20 miler is mostly flat and traffic free! - Bikeability coaching (aka cycling proficiency) and Open Trail’s Learn To Ride sessions for all ages looking to ditch their stabilisers There are lots more activities too! Further details are available on our website: www.bewdleybikeweek.info or like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/bewdleybikeweek
Friends of Riverside North Park On Friday 5th April Friends of Riverside North Park, WFDC Park team and pupils from years 5 and 6 from Bewdley Primary School planted 3000 bluebell bulbs at the far end of the Swan pond. We are hoping to create a bluebell glade next to the bridge. This addition to the park was funded by FoRNP. We hope that the bluebells will spread each year and the children will be able to visit knowing that they helped to create it. Our next fund raising event will be on July 20th when we host our FUN’d Day at the Riverside North Park. Keep a lookout for more details.
Outdoor Painters Our group of fifteen or so painters continue to work out of doors, meeting once a week throughout the summer. We hope for fine weather but sometimes have to battle the cold and wind in pursuit of achieving our work. Rain is our worst enemy and usually makes such work impossible unless shelter with a view is found. Some of us make sketches on the spot and work these into a finished painting back at base whilst sometimes a finished painting is produced on site. We are a mixed group of ex-professional and leisure painters with varied experience but with the common interest of enjoying our art. We have visited a wide variety of venues incorporating subject matter such as landscape and water, buildings and bridges, trees, flowers and gardens and even historical planes. We work in diverse media: watercolour paint, watercolour pencils, acrylics, pastels, charcoal, inks, graphite and occasionally oils. The Outdoor Painting Group took over the gallery space at St George’s Hall Bewdley last month. This is the second exhibition that we have held and we hope you enjoyed viewing a sample of our work. Colin Hill
Riverside Elim's New Pastor Greetings, Bewdley and readers of the Bridge. At the end of February, Riverside Elim in Bewdley saw my wife and I get inducted and we started our pastorship of the church. Liz and I have moved from Knottingley in Yorkshire where we had been leading a church for the last five years. But we aren't Yorkshire folk; in fact we are incredibly local. Previous to our work in Yorkshire, Liz and I were both heavily involved in Lifecentral Church, Halesowen where my wife was on the staff. Liz grew up in Hagley so she knows this area really well. I however grew up in Solihull but am still a Midlander through and through. We have loved the last 6 weeks in Bewdley. Life here is great and the people of both Riverside and Bewdley have been incredibly welcoming and loving to us and we feel really accepted. We love how much life there is about the town and what a great sense of community Bewdley has. We look forward to getting to know the town, the people and the other churches better and are really looking forward to the Passion Play in Jubilee Gardens on Friday 19th April at 2pm. Hopefully we will both see you all there. ,If you see me around town please feel free to stop and have a chat; I'd love to get to know you better. Steve Robinson
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News from Bewdley Medical Centre Bewdley Medical Centre: What’s hiding behind the stiff upper lip? Mental Health Issues: Mental illness ranges from depression to schizophrenia; it reportedly affects at least one in four people during their lifetime, but it’s probably a lot more. By far the most common illness we see is depression. It’s a condition which is becoming more common every year and seems to be linked to the many changes in our society and lifestyles. The most important treatment for depression is prevention, so here are a few tips which we wanted to share with you from the excellent Mental Health Foundation website: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/how-manage-and-reduce-stress 1) Eat Healthily: Focus on food that releases energy slowly and make sure you get your five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. 2) Be Aware of Bad Habits and Addiction: Any activity done to excess can affect your mental health. A few particularly bad habits in order of impact are: Excess alcohol on a regular basis; Drug use; Internet use (especially social media);Video games; Smoking. 3) Exercise: All exercise improves mental health as it releases endorphins - and if you’re outside your level of Vitamin D will also increase. 4) Take a Break: You deserve it! It’s OK to prioritise yourself; you will have more energy for others if you do. 5) Be Mindful: Mindfulness is about paying attention to our thoughts, emotions and surroundings. Try reading a book on this, and reduce activities (like social media!) which detach us from our surroundings and our feelings. 6) Get Restful Sleep: T hink about your environment and how you wind down at night. Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine and using too much technology before bed. Learn about “Sleep Hygiene”. 7) Don’t be Hard on Yourself: Most people are their own worst critics. Give yourself a break, you are human!
Bewdley Floral Art Club
Bewdley Tennis Club Open Day
We look forward to welcoming Janet Hughes to our meeting at The Wharton Park Golf and Country Club on Monday 13th May at 7.30pm, with her demonstration ‘Influential Women’. On Monday 3rd June Tina Pound joins us with a demonstration entitled Elvis. Quite Interesting. Visitors are always welcome
Free Tennis for all Saturday 11 May 13.00 - 16.00 All ages from 2yrs+ fun and games for all the family - Come and give it a try!!! Racquets for all available. Special membership offers Register your interest/book FREE coaching: bewdley.i2cplaytennis.co.uk/Events or just come on the day! 25
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Ambassador Multi Purp 40ltr. 6 bags Only £25 Levington Multi Purp 50ltr 4 bags Only £22.80 Levington Farm Manure 50ltr 4 bags £18.80 Levington Giant Growbag 4 bags for £20 Decorative Bark 70ltr. 5 bags for £34 *Stockists of SHL Professional Composts Range of Bagged Aggregate Available
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Do you need transport........we’re here to help! Community Transport Wyre Forest provides door to door transport for local people who don’t have access to their own car or who find it difficult to use public transport. We’ll take you from your home to local destinations as well as further afield throughout the country. So don’t stay at home......have a journey with us! We even have vehicles suitable for wheelchairs. Our booking line is
01299 405820 and is open 9am to 2pm Monday to Friday. To find out how to become a member (or to volunteer as one of our driving team) contact us on 01299 405832 or e-mail admin@ctwyre.org.uk or see our website www.ctwyre.org.uk
Bewdley Cricket Club is located on High Street, sandwiched between the idyllic River Severn and Red Hill at its Lower Park Headquarters. Set amid some of Worcestershire's finest rural scenery, the ground is considered one of the prettiest in the county. The ground is the perfect backdrop to any celebration, be it a birthday, christening, or wedding, and the wonderful out door space is complimented by a large furnished patio area. The clubhouse, having been entirely refurbished in 2012, boasts a fully licensed bar with a range of draught beer and has the capacity for parties up to 100 people. With a fully equipped kitchen, the club is able to host self catered events and has seating capacity for up to 50 people. With Wi-Fi capability and big screen projection, the club lends itself as a perfect venue for small scale conferences, meetings and team building events for businesses.
Tel: 07870 752274 Web: www.bewdley.play-cricket.com Email: bewdleycricketclub@gmail.com Twitter: @BewdleyCC
Contact us now to discuss your requirements….
Facebook: BewdleyCC
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News from the pupils of St. Anne’s Primary School Spring in Reception Here in Reception at St Anne’s, we are always busy! With the weather improving, we have been spending even more time than usual outside and have been planting peas, beans and potatoes in our new vegetable patch and can’t wait to watch them grow. Recently, we went on a visit to the Wyre Forest for the day and spent time looking for signs of Spring. We made nests to keep a bird warm and tested them by putting a pot of water inside and taking the temperature when it went into our nest and then also a while later. The part of the day that we enjoyed most was our wander through the forest where we found some dens and a patch of mud! Year Three and Four Perform! Before the Easter holidays,Years Three and Four rehearsed and performed a play called ‘Good News’. We busily perfected our singing, dancing and acting over several weeks ready to perform for our audience. ‘Good News’ tells a traditional Easter story with a twist! We all thoroughly enjoyed performing and also learnt a lot about the true meaning of the Easter story. Year 5 and 6 Trip Back In Time As part of our History topic,Years Five and Six recently visited the beautiful Shropshire market town of Ludlow to discover more about life in Tudor England. Ludlow was a very important location back then as the castle, situated near the river (River Teme), was used to defend against attacks from Wales. It was even here that Prince Arthur – King Henry VII’ s heir to throne – lived with his young wife Princess Catherine of Aragon. However, sadly, Arthur died before taking the throne leaving his widowed wife to later become the first wife of the famous Henry VIII - one of SIX wives and we all know how that story ends! During the afternoon, we spent time touring the local St Lawrence’s Church and looked at the Tudor architecture. Other activities that we participated in included: comparing the lives of the rich and poor; dressing up in Tudor clothes and looking at real-life Tudor artefacts. Finally, later in the day, we made personal seals out of clay and practised writing in ink using a feather quill. We would highly recommend you visit historic Ludlow as it is an interesting and scenic town.
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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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New Wheelchair- access and Buffet Car for the SVR Mostly out of sight at Bewdley Station, SVR Charitable Trust volunteers are creating a wheelchair- access and buffet car for the SVR’s train of Great Western Railway coaches. Restorations like this are funded from privately-raised funds rather than the fares box. So the Trust needs to raise £100k-£150k for this five year project. It is adapting a Swindon-built 1928 passenger coach, withdrawn in the 1950s and converted to a workshop. Since the 1980s it has served a similar workshop rôle on the SVR. But the now surplus coach is a suitable candidate for this ‘wheelchair-access and buffet car’. The coach’s decayed body frame is being adapted for its new rôle. The finished coach will have similarities to some of the GWR’s 1930s dining cars and, reflecting this, it will have a new SVR fleet number ‘9581’, taken from a long-withdrawn GWR catering vehicle. Project 9581’s revised outline is beginning to emerge. Much of the severely decayed old walls have been renewed. ‘Picture-windows’ are being installed. These will help SVR’s wheelchair users and their companions to enjoy their SVR journey. Much needs to be done for No.9581 to be a ‘runner’ again. The roof needs to be watertight. The new art deco interior remains to be created, along with a new bar and kitchen (£20k), a wheelchair ramp (£2k), and a wheelchair-accessible toilet (£10k). Making the coach operational again could cost £20k. Individuals can support a ‘parts sponsorship’ scheme. General donations of any amount are also welcome, payable to the ‘SVR Charitable Trust Ltd’. Yes, this is all fairly daunting. But we are confident of success with the help of public generosity. General enquiries about donations can be emailed to: richardhill@lnersvrcoachfund.org.uk or fundraising@svrtrust.org.uk. BEWDLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
TOGETHER GROUP Thursday 9th May Lunch club. 2 courses and cup of tea just £4.00 Thursday 23rd May Outing to craft centre Coach travel free for members. Starting time to be announced: booking essential. To book your place please ring BTCouncil 01299400157 or Liz 01299403053 before 5th May We are a happy and friendly group. Come and join us!
Cut Flowers for the Home and Nature’s Visitors by ex member Rob Sherriff May 20th 7.30pm Riverside Church, Dog Lane Non members welcome 37
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Some notable swan rescues By Nick the Birdman • Helped to return three swans to the river - one, an angry Cob, chased an old female upstream for 200 yards, caught her and tried to drown the poor thing. I hooked the cob out and carried him back to the release point and lobbed him in the river - that burst his bubble! He was quiet from then on. • Tried the same trick with a particularly aggressive cob with cygnets in tow, but it didn’t work this time. I had to relocate them to the ‘fishing hole’ spot to feed them. • Saw one mighty sick swan that wouldn’t feed. They are extremely suspicious when ill, so no use trying to catch it. Asked a group of canoeists to help, got it rounded up but not before I’d disappeared under the water for a second or two! The bird survived so all good! • 42N had a broken Darvic (orange leg tag). I missed hooking her twice (head- on both times, what a rookie error!). Finally outwitted her and off came the tag. I've still got the tag; I don't think I'll ever forget 42N. If you would like to help Nick with his care of our river birds, please buy our seed from Catherine at Bewdley Blooms, drop a small donation into the Vets or join our Bewdley River Birds Facebook page and make a donation to our GoFundMe page. Wyre Forest & District University of the Third Age The U3A monthly meeting for May 2019 will take place on Monday 20th May at 2pm, at The Kidderminster Harriers Social & Supporters Club Stadium Close, Hoo Road, Kidderminster DY10 1NR. It will be an Open Forum where information will be available from a variety of organisations. The U3A is here for people who are retired, have finished working full-time or raising a family and have time to pursue their interests or just try something new and make new friends. For more information visit www.wyreforestu3a.org.uk or call 01299861031 Live Wyres is a 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. The following are a few of our events for May: Tue 7th - Pub Night at The Queen’s Head, Wolverley. DY11 5XB Sat11th – Live Wyres Annual Trip to Minehead with Heritage Train ride Tue 14th – Pub Night at The Old House at Home, B’ham Rd, Blakedown. DY10 3JE Sat 18th – Live Wyres Dance at Wribbenhall Parish Rooms with DJ Kim Matthews Tue 21st – Pub Night and Meal at Bewdley Pines Tue 28th - Pub Night at The Island Pool, W’h’ton Road , Cookley, Kidderminster DY10 3RX We always welcome new members. Any one interested can find out further information at our website www.livewyres.moonfruit.com or contact Sandra on 01299 400979 39
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!St. Anne’s C of E Primary School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Mr R A Hughes D.O. Registered Osteopath and Sports Therapist Osteopathy / Cranial Osteopathy Over 20 years’ experience Fully qualified and registered since 1995 Established in Bewdley in 1998 Sciatica, Arthritis, Trapped Nerves, Headaches, Sports InjuriesBack, Neck and Shoulder Pain 07961 352056 rahughesosteo@gmail.com Bridge House – FREE CAR PARKING 40
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RapidPI.co.uk Local Private Investigations 0800 4332130 Licensed and Registered
The deadline for the June issue of The Bridge is 10th May
TLC Care at Home are a family run business; we are based in Bewdley and work across the Wyre Forest. We support people in the community to continue living in their own homes. We have been inspected by the Care Quality Commission "CQC" and have received an Overall GOOD with an OUTSTANDING for “is the service caring” this is an incredible achievement and all thanks to a fabulous team! We are now looking for new and experienced care staff to join our company. Whilst experience is good it is not essential as we are looking for caring people who want to make a difference. We will provide all the training and support you need. TLC are interested in meeting people who share our values, energy and enthusiasm. TLC work hard to ensure all our staff are supported and valued. If you are finding yourself at a loose end now your children have flown the nest, looking for a company that appreciates you or just want a career change; if you would like a challenge and would like to know more, apply today! • Excellent rate of pay with enhanced pay over weekends • Generous fuel allowance • Paid travel times in-between calls • Support with progression towards NVQ two, three and five If you are kind, honest, hardworking then we would really like to hear from you. Please contact us by email jacqui@tlc-careathome.co.uk if you have any questions please ring 01299 405605 or find us on Facebook, website www.tlccareathome.com Salary: £7.90 to £9.00 /hour. Job Type: Full-time/Part- time positions available. 41
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23#4)15%43&4#3%/)+6%"763*%"18%4")1*9%)1:0';9%"'+6')+)*9%% *7)"+)7"%"18%63"8"763*%"')*)15%<'&-%+63%137=> Treatment available outside normal working hours based at Cleobury Chiropractic in Cleobury Mortimer High Street !"##$%07506 287191, 07932 000028 &'%()*)+$%www.jsosteopaths.co.uk. ,-")#$%jamesosteopaths@gmail.com. .&##&/%0*%&1$ facebook.com/jsosteopaths
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Community News
BEWDLEY FESTIVAL 2019 11th May - tickets are available to purchase by FESTIVAL FRIENDS ONLY at www.bewdleyfestival.org.uk. from 11th May. Friends then have one week’s grace to buy tickets before booking is opened to the general public on Saturday 18th May. Friends will also be able to purchase from St George’s Hall at specific times (to be announced) during that week. From 18th May, the general public will also be able to book their tickets via the website www.bewdleyfestival.org.uk or again at specific times (to be announced) in St George’s Hall. There is still time to become a Friend. It costs just £20 (or £30 per couple) for one year. In addition to the week’s grace offered, Friends can receive 10% off their ticket prices if they buy during that special first week. Just download a form from the website and pop it into St George’s Hall with your cash/cheque before that magic date of 11th May. If you are interested in joining our Festival Volunteers, please come along to St George’s Hall on Monday 3rd June at 7pm to our Volunteers Evening when you can meet your fellow volunteers and “sign-up”. Before the main Festival, on Saturday June 8th, the Bewdley Festival Literary Events team welcomes two of the country’s best known and admired crime writers to St. George’s Hall, Bewdley. Vaseem Khan, author of the Baby Ganesh Detective Agency novels, featuring Inspector Chopra and his sidekick baby elephant Ganasha. Aspiring crime writers can participate in a writing workshop led by Vaseem and later in the evening enjoy a full presentation of his work. Our second featured writer is the amazing Mark Billingham. His novels featuring the formidable Inspector Tom Thorne have been televised and he has enjoyed being in the Times Top Ten bestseller list on a number of occasions. You are invited To an evening with the “Gospelites” singing music by Moody and Sankey. The “Gospelites” are a popular University of the Third Age Singing Group. It will take place in Bewdley Baptist Church on June 9th. Coffee from 6pm, singing begins at 6.30pm. Ring the church office 01299 403267 weekdays am for more information. We look forward to you joining us.
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For Get Me Not Sundays Like me and many others you may find Sundays to be quiet and lone times; a time to dwell on the negatives. That’s why we hold an informal get together on the first Sunday of each month. If you are bereaved or alone on a Sunday, pop in for a cuppa, cake and chat. We might just make one another a little brighter and lessen the "alone times". Next meeting: May 5th Holy Family Meeting Room, High Street, Bewdley Everyone welcome! For further details contact the Parish Office-01299 822633 parish@stwulstanstourport.org.uk
61 High Street,Bewdley am Monday-Friday 01299 403267 office@bewdleybaptist.org.uk
Messy Church Returns! Sunday 19th May 4-6pm Messy Church is a safe, comfortable and enjoyable place for all ages to come and explore the Christian faith through a variety of creative fun ways. Messy Church is all about having fun in that messiness! It’s a chance to come together, to enjoy craft activities, stories, singing and food! AND there is no charge. It’s not just another children’s club though, this is for the whole family, young and old alike! So come along 4-6pm on 19th May. For Your Diary: Messy Church Sunday June 16th This is church, but not like you’ve known. It’s creative. It’s messy. It’s FUN!
Bewdley WI Meetings in St George's Hall, Bewdley Monday 13th May 7.30pm: Annual Meeting and ‘Poetry and Art Presentation' Speaker - Penny Turner of "Penny Turner Poetry and Art' Jinney Ring Centre Hanbury Visitors Welcome Entrance Fee £3.50. (Refreshments included) 45
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!!
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Repairs, restoration & servicing of antique & fine clocks and other mechanical devices. Telephone: 01562 885080 www.hagleyclockclinic.co.uk
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Dr Vivien Newrick Homeopath
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medically qualified and registered homeopathic practitioner
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Tel : 01299 401617 Mob : 07884 098582 vivnewrick@hotmail.com www.vivnewrickhomeopathy.co.uk
Vicarage Service Garage Ltd Established 50 Years Qualified Technicians Special For Bewdley & Surrounding Areas FREE COLLECTION BYTHE THEBUSINESS BUSINESSPROPRIETOR PROPIETOR (LIVING BY (LIVINGLOCALLY) LOCALLY)
FOR ALL YOUR MOTS ONLY £30.00 MOTS £25.00 WITH A FULL SERVICE SERVICING FROM £49.95 + VAT REPAIRS DIAGNOSTICS
PLEASE TELEPHONE FOR FRIENDLY SERVICE ON
0121 5591860 DAYTIME 07793535988 MOBILE 40
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MARK WILLIAMS FIPW & F.INST.PA PROFESSIONAL WILLWRITER “A lifetime’s attention to the most complex of legal investigations as a retired Detective Superintendent means you can definitely trust Mark to write your Will.” Wills or Powers of Attorney from £85
Free Will Reviews, Big Savings on Funeral Plans, Probate & Care Home Fee Avoidance Instructions taken in the comfort of your own home T: 01299 251442 M: 07966 053887 E: mark@ambalegalservices.co.uk www.ambalegalservices.co.uk Trading Standards Approved
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SEVERN VALLEY PAYROLL SERVICES For a free confidential no obligation quote please contact Denise Dodd and her hearing dog Paddy to arrange an appointment Mobile 07724 375794 text only Home phone 01299 402533 Email severnvalleypayroll@outlook.com â&#x20AC;˘ Bespoke payroll service â&#x20AC;˘ Fully insured â&#x20AC;˘ 32 years payroll experience within manufacturing, public and private sector â&#x20AC;˘ Experience of payroll within care agencies â&#x20AC;˘ Bookkeeping, administration and self-assessed taxes services also provided â&#x20AC;˘ Free confidential no obligation quotes â&#x20AC;˘ Appointments on request â&#x20AC;˘ Fully confidential with signed clauses â&#x20AC;˘ Fully insured
Telephone: 01299 403105
Private Chapel of Rest Bank House Severnside South Bewdley, Worcestershire www.bewdley.actinet.net/bince
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Community News
Bewdley Cricket Club
BEER FESTIVAL Friday 24th, Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th May Opening hours Fri 6pm - 10pm Sat 2pm - 11pm Sun 2pm - 6pm Venue : Bewdley Cricket Club, Lower Park, Bewdley, DY12 2DP Beers from: WyeValley Brewery, Salopian, Hobsons Bewery, Fixed Wheel Berery, Ludlow Brewing, Enville Brewery, Green Duck Beer, Barbourne Cider
All Saints' Church Monthly Book Sale We would like to thank everyone who has donated books to our book sale over the last few months. Unfortunately, we do not have the space at the moment to display or store the amount of books we are receiving, so we are temporarily unable to accept any more donations of books. The next book sale will be on Tuesday May 14th from 10am till 12noon where we have in excess of 1,000 fiction books, CD's, DVD's and jig-saw puzzles and we look forward to seeing you all then.
Rock Pathfinders Free guided walks of 2-3 hours, off the roads and into the countryside. The MAY walks will be on THURSDAYS starting at 10.30am 2nd May Cleobury Sports & Social Club Cleobury Mortimer, DY14 8P SO 671759 16th May from NEEN SOLLARS VH Past St Marys Church Neen Sollars SO 657722 All welcome. For our full programme see www.rockpathfinders.uk or ring Alan on 01299 400304 or Jan on 01299 832571
Quiz Night
All Saints' Church Kidderminster Road Bewdley
Saturday May 11th at Pound Green Village Hall. All proceeds to the Children’s Society. 7.30pm. Tickets £10.00 each to include a fish and chip supper. Bring your own drinks or go to the pub over the road. Ideally teams of 4. Amazing prizes. Tickets from St. Anne’s Church or contact robertlimbrick@btinternet.com
Saturday 4th May 10 am till 2 pm GARDEN PLANT SALE to include Bric-a-Brac - Table-top Stalls - Tombola - Cakes & Refreshments All proceeds to Church Ceiling Appeal 49
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Bewdley Town Council News May 2019 New Town Council Every four years the membership of all parish and town council seats is refreshed. In the majority of the 10,000 or so parish and town councils across the country there are either not enough or just enough candidates to ensure there is no contest, or ballot. However, here in Bewdley there is, thankfully, sufficient interest in the town to ensure a ballot takes place and this will be on Thursday 2nd May. At the time of writing this all we know is that every seat on the Town Council is being contested. There are twenty-five candidates for the thirteen seats, shared out amongst the three wards (Bewdley East – 4 seats, Bewdley West – 4 seats and Wribbenhall – 5 seats). Following election to the Town Council, all members will sign their statutory Declarations of Acceptance of Office, complete their Register of Interests which is subsequently published online, and agree to abide by the legally-required Members’ Code of Conduct. The first meeting of the new council will be the Annual Town Council meeting which, here in Bewdley, is also known as ‘Mayor-Making’. This will be on Friday 10th May at the Guildhall when the first item of business for members to consider is the election of the Town Mayor for the year. The Mayor’s role is twofold. In their civic capacity the Mayor is the apolitical first citizen of the town, promoting civic pride and representing Bewdley by meeting with community groups and attending civic functions across the town and county. Whilst in their council capacity the Mayor is the Town Council’s Chairman, which means they will chair all meetings of the full Council with the aim of keeping good order, ensuring all council members are involved in the discussion and that good decision-making takes place. Mayor-Making will be followed a few days later by an ordinary meeting of the Town Council when the usual meeting agenda will be followed. This will be on Monday 13th May, starting at 7pm and, like all Town Council meetings, is open to the public unless confidential matters such as anything to do with legal issues or staff members, are to be discussed. New Play Equipment The Town Council has been working with the Friends of Wyre Hill Sand Park to update the equipment in the play area. We are hoping the new multi-play unit from Wicksteeds with trapeze rings and play panel will be installed for the start of the school summer holidays. There will be some ground preparation works in advance of installation, so please bear with us whilst this is being done. Fingers crossed for excellent summer weather so that we can make good use of it! Contact During open hours, the Town Council administration team can be contacted at 25(A) Load Street; or by phone on 01299 400157 or by email to townclerk@bewdleytowncouncil.org Town Council meetings are held at The Guildhall at 7.00pm on the first Monday of each month unless stated otherwise. After May the next meeting is: 3rd June 2019. Meeting Agendas and Minutes are posted on town notice boards and are available on the Town Council’s website www.bewdleytowncouncil.org 51
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Oldbury Grange Nursing Home Bridgnorth, Shropshire
· Exceptional standards of short and long term nursing care · Bespoke approach to caring for those living with dementia - The Morris Care Cedar Philosophy · Luxury living in a rural location, just one mile from the centre of Bridgnorth
Call to find out more from: 01743 232005 www.morriscare.co.uk M A K I N G E V E R Y D AY T H E B E S T I T C A N B E
Washing Machine Repairs and Sales Cooker Repairs Julian Breakwell Telephone: 07791 633 746 Repairs to all makes including: • Hoover • Zanussi
• Hotpoint • Bosch
NO CALL OUT CHARGE FIXED LABOUR COST 47
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At Wright Solicitors we work to help our clients with those important changes in life …. Whether moving house, making a will, considering divorce or facing bereavement – our experienced professionals provide a personal legal service that you will value.
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6 Load Street, Bewdley, DY12 2AF
Tel: 01299 402741 info@wright-solicitors.co.uk www.wright-solicitors.co.uk
With over 35 years experience in manufacturing educational and office furniture, Witley Jones brings you an innovative and exciting new dimension for home office and fitted bedroom furniture – Witley Direct. Drawing on our highly skilled in-house manufacturing and design teams, Witley Direct offers you the chance to liven up your home – from a new bright and vibrant bedside cabinet, to a luxurious fitted home office. Contact now, for an informal discussion or to proceed with a home visit from one of our design team. website – www.witleydirect.co.uk email – enquiries@witleydirect.co.uk telephone – 01299 828888 mobile – 07785 613366
Offering stylish storage solutions to neglected and awkward spaces Over 35 years experience Locally manufactured Buy direct from the manufacturer
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May in the Forest The first Sunday of the month is International Dawn Chorus Day, often marked by special walks. However, you don’t have to join an organised event to hear a free, virtuoso performance somewhere near your home. Setting the alarm in time to be out in the woods ready for a 5.30am sunrise may take grim determination but the reward is memorable. The build-up of birdsong and the effect of the gathering light among the tall trees is uplifting and magical. You can stand still and let yourself be blessed. The dominant songs will probably be those of Blackbird and Song Thrush. They perch as high as they can to broadcast their melodies: the Blackbird repeating them twice; the Song Thrush rather more varied in its repertoire and repeating each phrase three times. If, like me, you struggle to identify the other songsters, you can listen to recordings on websites such as www.rspb.org.uk to become familiar with them. Or you can just enjoy the occasion and make up your own mind whether you are experiencing a behaviour that is purely functional – an establishment of territory - or an outpouring of joy. I have only heard Nightingales a few times and sadly never in the Wyre Forest, where they were last noted in the 1940s, but I can re-read and enjoy Keats’ ‘Ode to a Nightingale’ to recapture the wonder of the elaborate song or hear 3 hours of it courtesy of YouTube! The Nightingale favours coppiced woodland and scrub, which used to be common enough in Wyre and other woodlands in the past. The forest also incorporated much more heath in the past and efforts have been made recently to restore and extend this habitat so that many species threatened with local extinction can hold on. Norman Hickin’s ‘The Natural History of an English Forest’, published in 1971, talks of the Nightjar still being numerous in areas of heath and bracken despite a decline from the earlier years of the century. He describes watching a Nightjar performing aerial acrobatics as it hunted moths at dusk, silhouetted against the sky. The bird’s mouth is wide and fringed with bristles to aid it in catching its food and its brown cryptic-patterned plumage allows it to avoid detection during the day. I was amazed to hear its loud, ‘churring’ song (like a clockwork toy winding down) on the RSPB website. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to welcome this fascinating former resident back to our forest? Linda Iles