The BRIDGE April 2009
The Bridge - the community magazine for Bewdley
Community CommunityNews News
From a small beginning over 40 years ago, the Bridge has developed and grown to be the community magazine for Bewdley.
What makes The Bridge different?
Non profit making Everyone who is involved in the Bridge, from those who put it together to those who put it through your letterbox, is a volunteer. That means that all we need to do is cover our printing costs to deliver a bright, colourful and informative magazine, month in month out, to your doorstep. Local news and events With our firm community foundations, we include news of all the local societies and forthcoming events. If you want to know what is happening in Bewdley - then the Bridge is your first port of call. We also include features from our local suppliers, the Town Council and local attractions including the Forestry Commission. Local adverts for local people All the local companies who support The Bridge through their advertisements provide trades and services to the residents of Bewdley. Many of our readers keep the Bridge as a handy source for finding local trades people. Of course, with no staff to pay or overheads, we provide true value-for-money to all our advertisers. Soon on the web To further support our advertisers and local organisations, we will be putting the current and back issues of The Bridge on the web. On the web there will be full details on how to share your news with us and, if you are a local trader, how to promote your products and services to Bewdley and the surrounding areas. The website is currently under construction and will will be found soon at :www.bewdleybridge.org.uk
Editorial
The Bridge is the community voice of Bewdley. It is delivered free monthly to more than 4,600 homes
As the sunshine and showers chase the winter gloom away from our beautiful town, we look forward to a summer of events such as our carnival, the Open Studios and the Regatta. We hope for plenty of visitors who come to admire the town, and for one weekend enjoy going all foreign, courtesy of the Twinning association (which has produced its own leaflet).
I must mention this month the hard work done by Angela and Stuart Williams. They have been overhauling our delivery master sheet – the means by which the right number of magazines goes to each of the volunteer deliverers. Inevitably, some roads had lost their deliverers, some roads had been built since the Bridge started to go to everyone free of charge, and some generous souls have come forward as deliverers. (We could still do with some more!). So if you still aren’t getting your copy or want to volunteer, do contact us.
Another task that has been occupying us the last few weeks is the exhibition in the library. So many people have remarked on the superb colour photos provided by our photographer, Gary, and also by readers, that we have decided to reproduce some of the very best. Do pop in and have a look.
Can I remind you that it’s your magazine, so keep writing! As I mentioned last month I’ve been collecting stories of “How I Came to Live in Bewdley” and hope to include them in next month’s magazine. There have been some splendid tales but I can always use more, so do get writing! Margaret Ashmore
Sharing your news with us
If you want to share your news and photographs or advertise your company.
News
Advertising
Photographs
Copy
Delivery
editorial@bewdleybridge.org.uk
advertising@bewdleybridge.org.uk (Tel 01299 820457) pictures@bewdleybridge.org.uk
Typed and clearly hand written material can also be left in The Bridge box in the porch of St Anne’s Church.
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 01299 822174 sales@agprint.co.uk
Cover photograph Gary Mayer
Soul Essence
Bridge Ad Mar 08:Quarter page.dat
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Family Law Solicitors
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FREE STYLE YOGA CLASSES Button Oak Village Hall, Pound Green Every Friday 12pm - 1pm The Wheatsheaf Room, Bewdley Institute From Thursday 23rd April 7-8pm Freestyle Yoga will greatly improve your Mobility, Flexibility & Clear your mind. You will feel Fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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SEVERNSIDE SCHOOL OF DANCING ballet :: tap :: modern Greek :: Acrobatic dance
67 High Street, Bewdley Worcestershire DY12 2DJ
Tel: 01299 402741 Fax: 01299 401800 DX: 29901 Bewdley email: info@marion-evans-solicitors.co.uk
Age range : 3yrs - teenagers Classes held at St George Hall, Bewdley New pupils welcome First lesson is free
then payment is weekly for first half-term and after that by the half-term
Enquiries to Principal Mrs Joyce Campbell (BTDA) Bewdley 400633
Regd teacher with the Council for Dance Education and Training
Noah’s Ark - for parents and toddlers. Womens’ Own - an afternoon meeting for ladies. Art Group - a quiet place to paint and draw. Youth Activities We also run a monthly Senior Citizens' Lunch and Men’s Group. Like to know more? Contact the ministers, John Rhodes or Simon Harry, at the church office (403267) or visit our new look website. www.bewdley.baptist.org.uk
A warm welcome from Bewdley Baptist Church.
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. There are also special groups for children and young people. 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:
Services in April
Good Friday Walk & Worship with the churches of Bewdley April 10th
Begins 12 Noon - All Saints, Wribbenhall
12.45pm - Holy Family Church, Bewdley (Stations of the Cross) 1:30pm – Bewdley Baptist Church
2:00pm – Bewdley Methodist Church 2:30pm – St. Anne’s, Bewdley Bewdley Methodist Church
We once again shared a very successful Pancake Lunch on 24th February. Part of the proceeds were donated to Network.
We will once again be taking part in the Good Friday Walk of Witness. This is always a very enjoyable occasion when all the churches in the town join together. Our Easter Sunday service at 10.30 will this year be conducted by John Rigsby from Kidderminster. All are welcome to join us on this very special day.
For more details of activities and services please contact Rev. Pam Garrud on 01562 742722.
Services in April
St Anne’s Bewdley - April 2009 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.
Wednesdays at 10.15am Morning worship
Booking a wedding at Ribbesford or St Anne’s drop in at St Anne’s on a Tuesday evening, 7-8pm
Thinking about baptism come to a Sunday service and we’ll talk together over coffee Our website is: www.bewdleyparish.org.uk
Special events this month
Palm Sunday - Sunday 5th April
Taize Prayer – 6.30pm Prayer, silence and songs from the Taize Community in France
Maundy Thursday – 9th April
5.30-6.30pm Footwashing, story-telling and meal – for all ages
7.30pm Agape A simple meal and communion service (sign up at St Anne’s to book a place!) 9pm-12Midnight: Watch of the Passion A silent prayer vigil in which we keep watch with Jesus through the hours of his betrayal and arrest Good Friday 10th April
Walk, worship and witness begins 12 Noon All Saints, Wribbenhall and finishes 2.30pm at St Anne’s See separate notice for more details
7.30pm Tenebrae Candles – shadows – quiet – music - a reflective service to end Good Friday
Easter Day Sunday 12th April
5.00am Dawn Eucharist at St Leonard’s, Ribbesford Celebrate the rising of the Son of God with the rising of the Sun – breakfast afterwards 9.30am Family Communion at St Anne’s Celebrating Easter Day with all ages together
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St Andrew’s Button Oak
Rev. Keith James is the Rector and may be contacted on 01299 402275
Church Warden: Brian Wood 01299 404363
April 12th 11.15 Easter Day Communion Rev. Keith James/Rev. Joe Heaton
April 26th 11.15 Easter 3 Morning Prayer Vince Taylor May 10th 11.15 Morning Service
Easter Flowers
Anyone wishing to donate flowers from their own gardens for church decoration may do so; maybe they would like to contribute towards the Easter lilies – contact Brian Wood (01299 404363).
Holy Family Catholic Church High Street.
Sunday Mass at 8am
Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am (preceded by morning prayer)
Holidays of Obligation 12 noon.
Riverside Church
@ Bewdley School Stourport Rd Bewdley A Church for all the family Every Sunday @ 10:30am Contemporary Music, a relevant word and very child friendly. We have youth and kids activities and more. Check us out some Sunday 01299 405535 www.riversideelim.com
Services in April
St. Leonard’s Ribbesford
Sunday worship: 11.15am
• 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. www.bewdleyparish.org.uk
Easter Day – 12th April 5.00am Dawn Eucharist 11.15am Holy Communion 6.30pm Evensong
Evensong continues to be held from Easter Day on Sunday evenings.
M ethodist Church High Street
Services at 10.30 every Sunday
Further details of forthcoming services and regular activities can be obtained from Rev. Pam Garrud on 01562 742722.
All Saints, Wribbenhall Please refer to the Notice Board
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) Bewdley Quaker Meeting House, Lower Park. Meeting for worship every Sunday 10.30-11.30am. Everyone is welcome. (For further information, phone the Clerk on 01562 755844)
The Deadline for the May issue of The Bridge is the 10th April.
Private Tuition in Italian
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Professional Music Tuition PIANO, ELECTRIC KEYBOARD AND GUITAR FOR ALL AGES
Contact : John Griffiths 01562 753808
Simon Powell Garden Services Garden Design-Survey-Plan-Build
Patio, Path & Turf Laying Garden Maintenance, Hedge Trimming Fencing, Garden Tidyups
01299 402399 07733108465 si.powell64@btinternet.com
STREATFIELD LANDSCAPES
All aspects of landscape construction undertaken. Scaled design / working plans provided. 25 years experience, work of the highest quality.
01299 403909 / 07968 411919 PERSONAL COUNSELLING SERVICES Christine Holloway BASRT ACCREDITED THERAPIST UKCP REGISTERED RELATE CERT cc PST Dip
In conjunction with the counselling therapy, I am now able to offer (EFT) Emotional Freedom Therapy. A new therapeutic approach to help to diminish and ease difficulties quickly such as :- Relationship problems, Couple Individual and Family, Sexual Difficulties, Stress, Depression, Grief, Separation Divorce. Telephone or e.mail 01299 402545 pcsandholloway@tiscali.co.uk For more information www.personalcounsellingservices.co.uk
To advertise in The Bridge contact Steve Gillespie on
01299 820457 advertising@bewdleybridge.org.uk
HOMESAFE Vehicle recovery & Airport passenger transfer service T.J. BARNETT 14 New Rd, Bewdley Tel: 01299 400002 Mobile: 07778-983067
Community News
From The Pulpit
I came across a piece of advice recently that, at first sight, seemed obscene – ‘Try thanking God for your problems’.
I couldn’t imagine being able to be grateful for bereavement or illness, for example. But the more I thought about it, the more I wondered whether there was a grain of truth present. In Mark’s Gospel the same God who brings joy to Jesus’ heart at his baptism, drives him into the desert to be tempted and tested. God appears to understand that we grow through crises. Someone once said that history is one damn thing after another. Human life is one crisis after another. We are propelled from the womb, weaned off our mother, taken from the security of home and left at school, and later we are bombarded with hormones in adolescence. But it’s through these crises that we grow to adult maturity.
The Bible recalls the many crises of God’s people – from the agony of slavery, to years of desert wandering, to exile from their beloved promised land. But it’s through these crises that they learn that God is more than a tribal figurehead blessing their violence and conquests – instead he is the God of all people, present in suffering and joy.
We aren’t like cabbages growing slowly and quietly into vegetable fullness. We grow spiritually and biologically through crises – a truth which Jesus experiences by being driven by God into the desert to be tested. It is bizarre, maybe sick, to thank God for our problems – but perhaps we need to approach them with as much openness as we can honestly muster, for so often, it is through crises that we grow in faith, love and wisdom. Keith James
The Parish magazine
So why ‘Parish’ magazine? (What is a ‘Parish’ anyway?)
During the Anglo-Saxon settlement, in the 9th century when the country was subject to Viking invasion, the ‘Parish’ system was introduced. Initially as an aid to the defence of each community, it provided a means of levying fighting men, and later as means of administration, law and taxation. The local churches, towers and spires of each modest community were the ‘hub’ of these activities. Perhaps because the clergy, monks and priests were those most likely to be literate and numerate, they were the representatives of the higher sacred and secular powers. The clergy provided a protective ‘belief system’ for the communities against the menace of the pagan invaders. The boundaries of each parish followed natural land features wherever possible: river, brook, ridge or ravine, and may still be traced today on Ordnance Survey maps.
The Parish boundary of Rock is one of the longest in the country; its emphatic church tower resembling nothing so much as a castle. Of course many things have changed over the intervening eleven hundred years. The ecclesiastical character of the ‘Parish’ has now been largely supplanted by the civil powers, the central and district government, but the duty of the church to serve and seek the well-being of people living within its boundaries is an ancient, time honoured obligation. ‘The Bridge’, tumbling through your letter-box, encapsulates these traditions: the ‘Parish’ Magazine is for is everyone within its ancient boundaries. (I think we’d probably call ourselves “the town magazine” these days! Ed.)
ROGER CARTER QUALITY CARPET FITTER
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HIGH QUALITY PLASTERING
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Community News 2008 CIVIC AWARDS
On 26 February 2009 the Town Council held its annual Civic Awards Presentation Evening to recognise the service of volunteers in the community and this year three awards were made by the Mayor, Councillor Barbara Stallwood. Award winners, and the major reasons for the awards, were: Jill Stones, proposed by Andrew Ince, for her many years’ work with 3rd Wribbenhall cubs. Wilf Talbot, proposed by Andrea Maddocks, for his work as a volunteer mentor and Chairman of Trustees of Mentor Link. Janet Williams, proposed by Linda Hughes, for her work for All Saints Church, her work with local Beavers, Cubs and Scouts and for many other activities in the area. Award winners together with the Mayor, Barbara Stallwood, are shown above. Paul Mann Town Clerk The Rotary Club of Bewdley sponsored their first Young Photographer competition at the Bewdley School and 6th Form Centre on 26th February. A total of 19 students attended a series of 6 workshops where they were encouraged to experiment with photography reflecting the Rotary Theme for the year "Make Dreams Real". Becky Newbold, Head of Art, who organised the workshops after school said "The students were very enthusiastic and inspired by the project and thoroughly enjoyed the challenge". Prizes were awarded to the best 2 entries in each age group and Colin Hill, one of judges, said "I am very impressed with the standard of entries". The winning entries will now go forward to the next stage of the competition where they will have the chance of going on to the RIBI final. The winners in each age group were Camille Harding (Senior) and Jessica Queenan (Intermediate).
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Community News
Well, after the coldest and longest winter for a decade, can we hope for better weather? Whatever the answer, we have to prepare as best we can. There are so many jobs now, this note will almost be a list of things to do. Lawns underway, feed, aerate, scarify, roll and cut as needed. Roses, mulch the beds, prune and stake the established ones, plant and protect new ones. For those big herbaceous plants it’s now time to lift, divide and replant; delphiniums will need staking towards the end of the month. Chrysanthemums will now need hardening off in preparation for planting out and dahlia tubers that have survived winter are ready for planting as well. In sunny conditions remember to shade seedlings that are still in the greenhouse and increase their water supply. Tomato plants in the greenhouse will need supporting and remember to take out all side shoots from leaf axils. Half hardy annuals can be moved outside to a cold frame to harden off. Fruit trees will also require your attention for feeding, watering and mulching, as well as spraying apples and soft fruits. In the vegetable plot plant onion sets and sow salad crops as well as carrots, peas and cauliflowers. Plant out late summer cabbages and sow winter cabbage, purple sprouting and broccoli. Carry on with the weeding and watch out for those late frosts! Stuart Williams
Certificate of Appreciation
Prize Bingo
Bill Mason recently received a certificate of appreciation for his many years of service. It was presented to him at the recent annual County British Legion conference at County Hall.
Shaw Hedge Road Community Centre Saturday 25th April In Support of Age Concern Eyes down at 7.30pm Bring your own drink. Refreshments provided For further details call Carol Gittins on 404113
Preparation of Accounts Self Assessment Taxation VAT, Payroll, Bookkeeping Business planning and development Sage advice
NEW CHEESES
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For a professional, friendly and efficient service with initial free consultation call
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Spa Therapy Room @ New Image Tel: 07910 281973
Pound Green Community Hall
Line-dancing on Wednesdays Beginners class 6pm-7.30pm Main class 7.30pm-9.30ish. . Teacher: Bill Symonds
Childcare Vacanciess Registered Childminder School pick up available Home cooked meals Large garden Reasonable prices Immediate start
Call Sharon on 07826 842828 Email
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BRIDGE DEADLINE Items received after the 10th cannot be included in the next month’s issue.
Bewdley Townswomen's Guild
In February Mr David Williams, Station Officer at Kidderminister Fire Station, spoke to the guild about safety in the home.
A service is to be held on 22nd April at Bath Abbey to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Townswomen’s Guild. There will be a regional day of talks and entertainment for West Midland Guilds in Stourbridge in May.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 28th April when there will be a talk about Kemp Hospice. New members and visitors are always welcome. For further information phone 01299 401 235
BEWDLEY TENNIS CLUB Friday night is Junior Night 5-7.30 Starts April 17th Coaching courses available Contact Tracey 079760 549974
ROCK BRIDGE CLUB
welcomes new members Any standard Relaxed and friendly atmosphere Single players welcome We meet every Sunday at 7.00 pm at the splendid, new, award-winning Village Hall in Rock. Please contact Bob or Chris Marriot on 01299 832560
Community News Wribbenhall Ladies' Luncheon Club
In February we were unable to hear our talk about Skin Care and Make-Up. Instead we were treated to a superb floral art demonstration by one of our talented members, Helen Healey. 29th April is our AGM and Bring and Buy. Members are invited to put their names forward as officers and members of the committee of this lively and interesting organisation.
All ladies are very welcome to attend our meetings at the Ramada Hotel and can book a place by ringing 400363.
Royal British Legion
The Bewdley Branch of the Royal British Legion would like to thank all those who attended their concert at Saint Anne's church on 14th February. The Kidderminster Male Choir was escorted by the RBL standards of Bewdley and Stourport, and as usual delighted the audience with their singing. Some of their songs were from their CD ‘Songs for Heroes’. Special thanks to those who donated raffle prizes, helped on the night and to our Branch secretary Carol Gittins who organised the event. The £550 raised has been donated to our Poppy Appeal, which now stands at £6,650. Paul Gittins Branch Chairman
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING- MONDAY 27 APRIL 7.00 P.M. IN THE GUILDHALL
All electors in Bewdley are invited to the above meeting at which the Mayor, Town Clerk and local councillors provide an update on their activities over the past 12 months.
Other organisations in the town are also invited to report on their activities and residents may also raise any issues at this meeting, which is conducted relatively informally. The Town Clerk
Bewdley Roofing
Community News AID FOR THE OLDER PERSON
All Saints’ Church Wribbenhall are hosting a day to provide advice & help for all who are elderly.
Monday 20th April 10.30am-3.00pm
Slating Tiling, Guttering Chimneys re-pointed Flat roofs
Contact : 07830 352187
W.R.V.S., Patients Participation Group, Social worker for older people, Age Concern, “Ever Greens” Senior Citizens Group, Gordon Yarranton, Nurse Advisor for older people, Our Community Transport, The Falls Clinic, The St.Vincent De-Paul Society.
Will be in All Saints’ Church Wribbenhall ready to help, offer advice and information to improve your quality of life. Light refreshments will be provided; there will be no charge.
01299 825900
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
Community News
BEWDLEY CARNIVAL JUNE 6TH
Bewdley Carnival Committee are continuing to work hard preparing for this year’s Carnival on Saturday 6th June this year. The committee meets through the year discussing the next carnival and how we can improve on the previous year. The acts that entertain on the carnival field have to be booked quite a long time in advance as the good acts get booked up very quickly. Andrew does a brilliant job in introducing good quality and different entertainments each carnival. The carnival princess will be from the Bewdley schools and applications forms will be at the schools shortly. The Wacky Tumblairs Comedy Trampoline Act is the main attraction this year. Their act includes a great deal of audience participation.
Anybody with any spare time on Carnival day would be most welcome to help with the day. There is so much to be done! Please contact Sue on 01299 401841 if you can help.
Bewdley Choral Society
Bewdley Choral Society will be performing THE BEST OF BRITISH music at a concert in St Anne's at 7.30 pm on Saturday 25th April (featuring Elgar, Purcell, Parry and Finzi among other composers). Tickets are available from St Anne's centre or from Bewdley Books
BEWDLEY CARS PRIVATE HIRE
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Airport Transfers
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GREENWARDS
GARDEN SERVICES
- Base Laying - Garden maintenance
For all your gardening needs
call Richard on 01299 409148
Wyre Forest Tiling
All Aspects of wall & Floor Tiling Undertaken
Professional Service, Competitive Prices Ceramic, Porcelain, Slate, Terracotta
Natural Stone, Under Tile Heating, etc ...
Phone : 07530 466650
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We Do Blinds
We Clean & Repair vertical blinds We Supply & Fit all types of blinds We Supply & Fit awnings & canopies Phone Richard Hague for a free quotation
01562 60988 / 07971 670 349 www.WeDoBlinds.co.uk
A pr i l in t h e f or e s t
Community News
Now is the season of birdsong, replacing the sounds of the chainsaw and crunch of breaking branches which accompanied a busy winter of woodland management in the Wyre Forest. It’s a good time to draw a line under the correspondence here and elsewhere about tree felling near the Button Oak road. I’ll just mention that the Area Forester met folk who had concerns on 7th March to listen to their views and has offered to do so again in early summer. The most vociferous complainant failed to turn up.
Anyway, bare soil will soon be covered by new plant growth because it’s boom time again. Coppiced trees and newly-laid hedges will produce new shoots and provide excellent cover for nesting birds in years to come. Hedges are wonderful mini-habitats which, though man-made, mimic the conditions found in scrub and woodland edge and linking or extending areas of woodland to make “wildlife corridors”. I’ve been looking at some lovely examples recently – masses of hazel catkins taking over from the autumn’s show of hawthorn berries and promising a good crop of nuts for squirrels and mice next autumn. Some of these hedges will be laid next year with help from the Grow With Wyre scheme, bringing more of the landscape back into management beneficial to wildlife. I would love to hear from you if you have (or know of) stretches of mixed hedge and also ancient trees, in or out of hedges. The Wyre Forest Discovery Centre has 3 events for families this month;
Friday 10 April Easter Trail come to the Discovery Centre any time between 1.30pm and 3pm to take part in our scavenger hunt to win a chocolate treat! 5 – 11 years, £3 per child. No booking needed.
Tuesday 14 April Mud Monsters and Boggarts Visit Mud Monster Valley and create your own monster to live there and a boggart to take home. Be prepared to get very muddy! 5 – 11 years, £3.50 per child. Booking essential.
Friday 17th April Forest Fairy Trail If you come down to the woods between 10.30am and 12noon you can join the search for fairies and pixies. Follow the trail, look for their homes and make a wand to take home. 5 – 11 years, £3.50 per child. No booking needed.
1st April sees our monthly Walk in the Woods from 10.30am to 12.30 (check the venue by telephoning beforehand), and Forest Friends are a group of pre-school children and their carers meeting every termtime Thursday from 10am to 11am for forestbased play and activities. Then there are Health Walks every Tuesday and Sunday starting from the Visitor Centre at 11am to build fitness at a gentle pace.
For more information on any of these or bookings please ring 01299 266929. Linda Iles Forestry Commission
Community News
Food Focus
As we move into springtime bringing with it longer days and hopefully warmer weather, it is time for us to start to thinking about spring lamb. So Sam has been out and about in our farmers’ fields to look for our first supply of this year’s lambs. He is hoping they will be ready for Easter. The Easter weekend will soon be upon us so we hope you all have a nice, relaxing, long weekend break. We will have available fresh local turkeys and turkey crown joints, free-range cockerels plus the lamb. We will also have local free-range pork and 21-day-matured beef. So call in and see us or give us a ring with your order if we can help you with anything. Happy Easter – Mick Bewdley Quality Butchers
Bewdley Cobblers
The attractive new shop in Load Street is the result of a leap of faith by Craig Cheatham, who started his working life attending to floors rather than the feet that walk on them. Three years ago he set up shop in the Load Street car park shop with Noel, the trained shoe man, and found that custom outgrew the premises. A larger shop became available last year and after refurbishment he has continued to find business growing. It seems Bewdley people want to look after their footwear and don’t regard getting shoes mended as something belonging to another era. Tourists visit as well, and with the tourist season about to begin, Craig hopes the handsome shop will tempt them in.
Round and About Bewdley from Gary Mayner
1st Bewdley Brownies Community News
At 1st Bewdley Brownies we have chosen WWF for the Guiding Project: “Help to Change the World"
All the Brownies were shocked to learn that every year plastic waste causes the death of at least one million sea birds and about 100,000 sea lions, sea turtles, seals and dolphins. The marine litter is both in the oceans and washed up on the beaches. Do you think there are any actions that people in Bewdley could do to reduce the amount of plastic bags that are used? Thank you for your time.
Cover photo Two of the 1st BewdleyBrownies encouraging all of us to get re-cycling!
Traidcraft
The year’s total sales were just under £29,800, which is a super total, but sadly nearly £3,500 less than in 2007. In fact it was the lowest total since 2002, so I was disappointed. I know we are struggling with recession, but it’s important to remember that the impact of the economic slowdown has an even greater impact on the poorest people. So if we’re in a position to help what can we do?
The new Traidcraft catalogue is now available and it’s packed with goodies, from every day essentials like tea, coffee and muesli to summer clothes. With more than 440 products there’s lots of choice, with each purchase directly helping our producers to use their skills and resources to trade their way out of poverty. Order through me and there’s no postage costs with delivery usually within a week.
Hopefully many of us are buying Fairtrade for our weekly shop, but don’t forget the stall in St Anne’s. We have dried fruit and nuts for example, which aren’t readily available in the shops, along with pasta and olive oil. There’s also some of the craft items for sale, so come and have a browse. If we committed ourselves to buying just one item regularly from the stall it would make a huge difference to the turnover locally. If you would like to do more and have a regular order I will happily deliver to your home.
Paper dryer Khadija from Bangladesh is part of the producer group Prokritee, who supply handmade paper to Swajan for use in their greeting cards, like those sold by Traidcraft and Marks & Spencer. As the oldest of four in her family she is proud to be earning money and said quite simply, “Thank you for helping me to help my family.” It’s as simple as that. Let’s do it! Elaine Barbour 400617
Community News
Coming soon a Saturday morning club for dads and toddlers
On the 9th May, Bewdley Baptist Church will be starting a monthly Saturday morning event where dads, grandpas, stepdads, carers, uncles etc can bring along their pre-school children for a morning of fun and activity. This will give them chance to play games, make things for mum, read the papers, enjoy a drink and a bacon butty ... just to start. “We run a very successful parents and toddlers club on Monday and Friday mornings which attracts around 50 parents with their children.” said Simon Harry, pastor at the church. “The vast majority of these are mums so we want to provide a place where men can bring their children for a time of play and socialising. We have two large rooms at the rear of the church and toys galore.” If you are interested and would like to be kept informed on what is happening then email your address to :- office@bewdleybaptist.org.uk More details will be published in the Bridge and on the church’s website :www.bewdleybaptist.org.uk.
REFRESHMENTS, CARDS & RAFFLE Monday 4th May 10:00 – 4:00
St Anne’s Church, Bewdley All Proceeds to Cancer Research UK For Research in to Breast Cancer
BEWDLEY FLORAL ART CLUB’S 2009 PRESENTATION If Only!..... A Floral Wish
Monday 29th June, Tuesday 30th June, Wednesday 1st July 7.30 pm. The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster
Andrew Lloyd Rita Cartwright Joan Southerton Tickets £8.00
All Proceeds to Local Charities call 01384 443380 or 01299 402961
JUST IN2 CARPETS & RUGS
• GREAT choice of top name CARPETS & VINYLS
• • • • •
Professional PLANNERS & FITTERS FREE no obligation measuring & quotes Rugs & Runners with the WOW factor FREE delivery on Rugs & Remnants Local Family run business “Come & Feel the difference” DOG LANE, BEWDLEY TEL: ALISON OR JUSTIN 404014
Professionalism in Print
• Bespoke Business Stationery • Flyers • Leaflets • Posters • Newsletters • Catalogues • Postcards • Greeting Cards etc.
From a business card to an extensive catalogue, our In-House Design Facility has it covered and our High Quality, Short Run Digital Print Service is available on a Variety of Papers & Boards AND IF YOU NEED IT IN A HURRY WE OFTEN GIVE A 24 HOUR TURN AROUND
For a quick quote call : PRINTWORX Bewdley t : 01299 406046 • m : 07710 523853 e : sales@printworx.org
Horse Riding Lessons
ALTON PIECE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
DARK LANE, BLISS GATE, ROCK DY14 9YN
HORSE RIDING LESSONS BHS QUALIFIED SMALL GROUPS PRIVATE LESSONS COMPLETE BEGINNERS BIRTHDAY PARTIES SCHOOL HOLIDAY COURSES
Call Adele 07799 761932
***WINNER OF SMALL COACH OPERATOR OF THE YEAR *** DAY TOURS Sun 5 Apr Sun 12 Apr Mon 13 Apr Tue 14 Apr Thu 23 Apr Mon 4 May
1 May 18 May 13 June 18 July 10 Aug 19 Sep 14 Oct
Salisbury & Wilton Shopping Village Llandudno via Horseshoe Pass The Roaches & Matlock Bath Cheddar Gorge & Clevedon Much Wenlock & Ludlow Dunster & Minehead
Sat 9 May
London/Westminster Abbey Flower Festival Sat 16 May Caerphilly Castle & Penarth Sun 24 May Tenby Mon 25 May Southern Cotswolds, Tetbury & Burford Tue 26 May Tissington Well Dressing & Carsington Water
HOLIDAYS 2009
ST ANNES ON SEA SCARBOROUGH & ‘ROYAL HEARTBEAT’ AUSTRIAN TYROL & SALZBURG KILLARNEY & RING OF KERRY CRICCIETH & SNOWDONIA BERLIN & DRESDEN THE TROSSACHS & EDINBURGH
3 days 5 days 9 days 8 days 5 days 8 days 5 days
£160 £250 £500 £500 £230 £640 £310
PICKING UP WITHIN WALKING Tel 01299 402989 To Book /For Brochure (46 Sandbourne Drive, Bewdley, DY12 1BN) DISTANCE OF YOUR HOME Or visit www.phillipstravel.co.uk or Bewdley Tourist Information
AFFORDABLE WEB DESIGN
A friendly, personal service to get you a
website you can be proud of!
Get in touch to see how little it can cost www.llyn.info/webdesign
Grass Cutting 07811 509232
Weekly & fortnightly service No job too small
Telephone 01746 862203 Mobile 0773 545477
Commercial and personal mortgages Pension arrangements and reviews Inheritance tax and capital gains tax planning Company sales and purchases assistance Maximising profits and minimising taxes Springhill House 94-98 Kidderminster Rd Bewdley Worcestershire DY12 1DQ t: 01299 403503 f: 01299 403487 w: www.dhjh.co.uk
81 Teme Street Tenbury Wells Worcestershire WR15 8AE t: 01584 811686 f: 01584 811635
WOODCOLLIERS ARMS WELCH GATE BEWDLEY 01299 400589 www.woodcolliers.co.uk REAL ALES REAL FOOD REAL FIRES Speciality Russian Menu Pub Food with Family Service
BED & BREAKFAST
3 star AA & Visit Britain, 5 rooms available On line booking service; On site parking
Opening hours
Monday 5 > Midnight, Tues > Thurs 5 > 12.30 Fri 4 > 12.30, Sat / Sun 12.30 >12.30 Off Sales during all opening hours Approx. 20 real ales to take home
FREE QUIZ NIGHT TUESDAYS No TV No Pool No Jukebox No piped music
Park Lane Childcare Your child’s home from home
Ofsted Registered Childminder 12 years experience
Call Stephanie Borrow
Tel: 01299 404126 Mob: 07708 282545
Kitchen & Bathroom Design & Fitting by M & J Designed to fit your needs. We take care of the design and installation, you choose the units. For quality work and no-obligation quotation
Call Mike 07882 538 709 or 01299 409 359
Bewdley Electrical Services Extra lights and sockets or complete re-wire Domestic electrical installation and testing Electrical Inspection and Certification BS7671 - 2008 All Part P work carries a Building Regulations Certificate of Compliance For quality work and no-obligation quotation
John Fletcher: 01299 403 759 or 07882 538 709 E-mail: bewdleyhandyman@aol.com
ELECSA registered installer
AKS SECURITY
LOCKSMITH & SECURITY SPECIALIST For all your security solutions 24/7 call out emergency locksmith Parking posts & bollards fitted Locks fitted to insurance standards BS3621 Intruder alarms Doors & frames fitted Gate automation UPVC & aluminium specialist CCTV Safes & fire proof cabinets Door entry systems *10 years experience* *No obligation quotes* *OAP Discounts* *No call out charge* *All work guaranteed* For a friendly & reliable service please call Adrian on 01562 827286 or 07905 533821
forget the gym get really active
You move to a new area and you have a new job to settle in to, a new home to find and perhaps schools to sort out for the kids. Once the initial hard work is over, you then start to think about how to meet people and build a social circle. Or perhaps you have been in the area for a long time but would like to expand your horizons? If you’re interested in coming along to a couple of evenings so see if you like it, give one of us a ring. If you like, we can even arrange for a couple of us to meet you in a pub for an informal chat. We are a relaxed bunch and welcome all sorts - just as long as you enjoy social occasions and would like to be able to put something back in to the community a couple of times a year. We look forward to hearing from you.
01299 400878
www.bewdleyroundtable.org.uk
get really active
Wyre Forest McTimoney Chiropractic and Integrated Health Clinic (est. 1997) McTimoney Chiropractic. Physiotherapy. Acupuncture.Psychology. Remedial/Sports Massage. Pilates. Zero Balancing. Homeopathy. Kinesiology.EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).
Do you have, or know anyone who has any of the following? Back, neck shoulder or any joint/muscle pain Trapped Nerves Headaches and Migraine Neuralgia Whiplash Back ache and SPD in Pregnancy Sciatica Frozen Shoulder Repetitive Strain Injury Sports Injuries Carpal Tunnel Tennis/Golfers Elbow Bulging/Prolapsed (‘slipped’) discs Children’s ‘Growing pains’ Babies with Colic, unexplained crying, poor sleep pattern, symptoms of ADHD or developmental delay particularly following a traumatic birth
Free Chiropractic Spinal Checks available
Evening appointments available. Emergencies only, outside clinic hours. Chiropractic 1st appointment approx 90 mins, all follow-up appointments approx 30 mins.
PLEASE CALL 01562 60823 FOR INFORMATION AND APPOINTMENTS BURGAGE LODGE, 184 Franche Road, Kidderminster DY11 5AD Incorporating
Valley Light
Reiki Practitioners Wribbenhall IAMME Karate Club Mondays 4.45-5.45 5-7 year olds
a realistic approach to teaching martial arts to the younger student—
FUN, FUN AND MORE FUN!! Mondays 5.45-7.45
for 7 years to Adult.
Vibrant martial arts, tailored to suit the individual.
FOR INFORMATION CALL JEN ON 07535334500 s-v-k.co.uk
SEVERN VALLEY KARATE
Your local Karate Club Wribbenhall Parish Rooms 4th Dan black belt Instructor established at the Parish Rooms for 7 years Tuesday 5.30-6.30
Wednesday 10.00-11.00 Ki-Taiso
For those who prefer more sedate exercise.
Gentle stretching set to music and breathing
exercises. The aim of this class is to improve one’s well being; exercising mind, body and soul. Age is no barrier! Tuesday 6.30-7.30 Stamina Session
Dynamic, focussed training to build stamina, perfect techniques and learn self-defence
Pure Klean
window cleaning services
we use the latest water fed pole technology enabling us to reach windows up 60ft we also.....CLEAR GUTTERS CLEAN CONSERVATORIES CONSERVATORY ROOFS FACIAS, SOFFITS, CLADDING ETC. FULLY INSURED RELIABLE SERVICE. CONTACT US VIA OUR WEB SITE www.pureklean.com or phone Russ 01299 404435 07899 726707
Hire of Crockery Tableware and Catering Equipment TEL : 07515 578985
FAX : 01562 863222
AndyLOOS ? PLACED FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE
Portable Toilet and Shower Hire. From a single toilet for a local builder, Luxury Toilet Trailers for Weddings and Corporate Events, up to hundreds of toilets for the largest public events. Emptying facility for Septic Tanks and Cess Pits also available. Call us on 01299 254420 www.andyloos.co.uk info@andyloos.co.uk ANDYLOOS LTD. UNIT 22 HARTLEBURY TRADING ESTATE, HARTLEBURY DY10 4JB
TIM BARNETT’S
RECOVERY ASSISTANCE “MOVE-A-CAR”
Broken Down? Sold It? No Tax/Insurance/MOT?
Move it cheaply from as little as £35
ANY DISTANCE
Telephone : 01299 400002 Mobile 07778 983067
email:wendy@crocsaway.co.uk www.crocsaway.co.uk
Unit 2a Ricketts Close, Firs Industrial Estate, Kidderminster. DY11 7QN.
To advertise in The Bridge contact Steve Gillespie on 820457 advertising@bewdleybridge.org.uk
NEW IMAGE ! NEW ATTITUDE! but still Bewdley’s 1-Stop-Shop for all your print needs!
• Black & White Copying up to A0 • Banners • • Colour Copying up to A3 • Laminating • • Garment Printing • Signage • • Web Site Design & Hosting •
UNBEATABLE PRICES ON BUSINESS STATIONARY & PROMOTIONAL MEDIA
River House, 10 Severnside South, Bewdley T: 01299 405000 E: enquiries@dashpp.co.uk
Community News
My colleagues and I have just come back
become noteworthy for all the wrong
from another successful Youth PACT
reasons. Some quite bizarre things are
Centre. I always feel quite uplifted after
of us so far relatively unscathed will I’m
meeting at the Bewdley School & 6th Form
happening to the economy and even those
these meetings as the students see life from
sure pay heavily in the long term. On a
who have lived more years than we can look
recently been touched by a loss far greater
on local issues are quite refreshing and often
Since the New Year there have been an
such a different viewpoint to those of us
forward to. Their thoughts and perceptions
more sombre note, many people have
than anything that mere money can bring.
challenge the opinions to which we are so
unprecedented number of ‘unnatural’
don’t have a much stronger voice on the
Worcestershire, with the majority being here
often subjected. It is a great pity that they committees and forums that tend to shape
deaths across our policing district of North
in Wyre Forest. Most have been as the result
what happens in Bewdley. We intend to
of road traffic collisions, but some have been
four local primary schools in future Youth
is that many of those who have lost their
address that in a small way by involving the PACTs, and bringing forward youth issues
at the hands of others. The greatest sadness
lives have been so young. Their families
to be heard at our regular quarterly PACT
and friends and those closest will feel the
in Bewdley, and it is not right that they have
and so many so close together, affect
meetings. These young people have a voice
to wait until they are 40-plus for it to be
deepest grief, but tragedies such as these,
everyone who in some small way has been
heard.
involved with them.
Anne’s School, Wyre Hill, at 6.30 p.m. on
who are touched by loss, tragedy and
Our next public PACT meeting is at St
Wednesday 13th May. The format will be
slightly different, so come along and see
what a wider audience has to say.
As you read this the first quarter of the year will have passed and already 2009 has
In your quiet time spare a thought for all hardship in whatever form it takes.
Police Sergeant Chris Aimes
Bewdley & Rural Local Policing Team
The Deadline for the May issue is the 10th April.
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
B. B. Ince Ince Funeral Director
Telephone: 01299 403105
Private Chapel of Rest
Bank House Severnside South Bewdley, Worcestershire
www.bewdley.actinet.net/bince
To advertise in The Bridge contact Steve Gillespie on 01299 820457
advertising@bewdleybridge.org.uk
Bewdley Beauty & Electro lysis Clinic 01299 400936
A family-run business est 1994: fully-trained therapists with 25 years combined experience in the beauty trade Treatments include CACI non-surgical facelift JESSICA manicures and pedicures. Creative design false nails by advanced nail-technicians. CALGEL overlay for nails. Waxing, Electrolysis (15 years experience), Massage, Wedding make-up, Home Visits. DERMALOGICAL treatments and products also available in salon. Late nights available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Gift vouchers available Snuff Mill Warehouse Park Lane, Bewdley DY12 2EL 01299 400936
Ray Evans
Painter & Decorator Interior & Exterior Decorating References available Reliable High Quality Service No Job too Small
Tel: 01299 269187 Mob: 07971 937620
Unit 3 Rear, 71 Load Street, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 2AW
What do we do? Quite simply we offer good sound financial planning. How does it work?
• We meet up with you for an initial discussion where we learn about your financial position. There is no charge for this meeting. • You tell us what you want to achieve. • We then write to you, clarifying the cost of the advice we can give. • If you are happy with that cost then we prepare a financial report for you and help you implement the recommendations if required. Simple, effective and essential in the current economic climate. Please call on 01299 405631 or visit our Web site www.tinsdale.co.uk for more details
Rooms available at Abbeyfield House At Abbeyfield House we offer a friendly style of living with single en-suite rooms, a cooked mid-day lunch and lighter evening meal.
Abbeyfield House is ideal for older people who can no longer quite cope with living alone at home, but who are still active and value their independence. For more information and to visit Abbeyfield, phone David Pagett on 01562 68640
The Abbeyfield Kidderminster Society Ltd Abbeyfield House 17 Birmingham Road Kidderminster DY10 2BX
Tel : 0783 729 5698
Pre-school and Play group
Wribbenhall Community Hall, Shaw Hedge Road Wribbenhall, Bewdley
Mon 8.45 - 2.45 Tues 8.45 - 1.15 Thurs 11.15 - 1.45 and Fri 8.45 - 2.45
Relaxed and happy pre-school environment Own secure outdoor garden. 6 staff fully qualified in Early Years Care and Education with First Aid Training + a qualified teacher Ofsted registered. Children are accepted from the age of 2 - 5 years (no need to be potty trained). 3 and 4 year olds receive educational funding 15hrs per week (free) Holiday club also available for 2 – 10 years Staff are also trained in Special Educational needs, Risk assessment and Health and Safety.
Pre-school Cost ÂŁ2.30 per hour minimum session length 2hrs
Tipplers The Specialist Off Licence
Draught Real Ales, Ciders and Fruit Wines A wide selection of Special Bottled Beers Other Specialities Party Service Drinks on Sale or Return “If we don’t stock the drink you “thirst” for, we will endeavour to obtain it for you”
70 Load Street, Bewdley Tel : 01299 402254
Community News
All Saints' and Wribbenhall Together
Can I invite you to consider popping along to All Saints' Church Wribbenhall on a Monday? It is open, except for Bank Holidays, between 10.30am-3.30pm and has been for the past 22 months. The Monday Girls will make you very welcome, the kettle is coming to the boil as you enter and there is, at least, one "specialist" on hand to answer your important questions and provide information to make life easier and more satisfying AND there is no charge. So far over 65 different charities/organisations have made them selves available, offering advice & information on a range of subjects. If you've never come along or it's been a while since you've joined us we invite you, now that Spring is well under way, to experience this very valuable local asset. It may sound too good to be true, why not put us to the test during April:
Dates for the Diary April 6th 10.30- 12.30pm -- All your gardening questions answered by Mike from Woodland Cottage Garden & Nursery 1.30- 3.30pm -- Questions about our council's services answered by Tracey Onslow, Cabinet Member for Operational Services
April 13th Easter Monday, All Saints' Wribbenhall is closed.
April 20th 10.00-3.00pm – Our "Aid for the Older Person" day. If you are 60+ this is for you. Please see notices for details.
April 27th 10.30- 12.30pm -- Volunteering advice & opportunities with Richard. Also Penny, from Shire services, answering questions about school meals in the area. 1.30- 3.30pm -- "People in Action" supporting & inspiring adults with learning difficulties, within the community. Pete Williams ALL SAI NTS' WRI BBEN HALL BINGO The excitement continues on the first and third Mondays of the month in Wribbenhall Community Centre on Shaw Hedge Road. The night starts at 7.00pm and ends at 9.00pm. It's a great night out, fun for all AND you can go away with lovely prizes. We look forward to seeing you there on: Monday 6th & 20th April and Monday 18th May.
POUND THE BOUNDS 3rd May 2009
A range of walks so that everyone, whatever their walking ability, can participate in this increasingly popular event. Experienced walkers can tackle the entire parish boundary of 25 miles, while we also offer walks of 18 miles, 12 miles, 6 miles (guided and independent) and even a 3 mile treasure trail for the youngsters. Date: Time: Place:
Contact:
Sunday 3rd May Registration point open from 08.00 to 20.00. Guided walk leaves at 11am Rock Cross Inn, Rock, Nr Kidderminster, Worcestershire. DY14 9SD Just 1 mile off the main A456. (OS Pathfinder: SO67/77) Henk Buzink on 01299 832496 or email: hands.buzink@btinternet.com
We shall look forward to seeing you
Rachel Greenwood, strings adjudicator for the British Federation of Festivals, has a few spaces for consultation lessons or tuition in violin and viola. Several of her students have gained success at a National Level. All ages welcome.
Tel : 01299 402513
Qualified Professional Mobile Hairdresser
Professional reliable service in the comfort of your own home. Discounts for senior citizens. Please call Bev on 07805129249
www.GETRIDOFTHATPEST.CO.UK Member of the British Pest Control Association
Rats - Mice - Wasps - Fleas Flies - Cockroaches - Ants Moles
0845 683 2540 or 07739 964 232 info@getridofthatpest.co.uk
Home and Garden Services Maintenance Green Waste Removed General DIY No Odd Job too small
Get it Tidy - call William 07546 079952
Community News Classical Concerts in Birmingham
How many people would like to go to Birmingham to see the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra play in Symphony hall? Now the C.B.S.O. are providing Wyre Forest residents with a wonderful coach service to approximately 10 Tuesday night concerts between September and June each season. You can book for as many concerts as you wish to attend by phoning 0121 616 6513 and asking to be included on the Bewdley Coach, at a small cost. The coach leaves at 6pm from Dog Lane carpark and picks up at Kidderminster and Hagley en-route. The cost is £7 for a return journey, which is added onto the concert ticket. Prices including the coach range from £24 to £46.50. There are two more concerts in the current season, in May and June; the new brochure will be available with next season’s exciting programme. Contact the number above or Chris Orme on 01299 400175 (local rep). Holy Baptism March 1st Harley Benjamin Crump.
From the Registers
Funerals 7th Feb. Albert Henry Mapp (73) Service followed by burial. 11th Feb.Ivy May Cleveley (92) Service and Cremation at Stourbridge.
Feb 20th Ethel Sophia Haller (87) Service at All Saints followed by Cremation at Stourbridge. 17th Feb. Alfred Holmes Service at All Saints' followed by cremation at Stourbridge. Feb 6th William James Neill age 80yrs Service followed by Cremation at Stourbridge,
STEVE WHEELER Hudson TREE MAINTENANCE Ltd Roofing Contractors All aspects of tree surgery
Hedges and conifers trimmed and shaped All waste woodchipped and removed Stumpgrinding NPTC certificates and public liability insurance available to view
We are happy to provide free, no obligation quotations (01584) 881 526 or 07719 289 545
Tiling Slating Lead work Specialist All flat Roofing Repairs Guttering For a free no obligation quote please ring:
Tel : 01299 400244 Mobile : 07805 668589 All Work Fully Guaranteed OAP Discounts
Community News
TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
TOWN COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 2 MARCH 2009 Replacement of water Mains Councillors agreed that letters should be written to all the relevant parties expressing the Council’s concern over the lack of information over plans for the start of work in Load Street and High Street and insisting that the Council is kept fully informed and in good time over any meetings to discuss future work. Concessionary parking in the Town Councillors agreed to request WFDC to introduce free parking from 3.00 p.m. i) On all Bank Holidays and over the Christmas/ New Year period and, on a temporary measure, ii) Whilst the water mains replacement work continues to affect the town. Habberley Road Councillors agreed to demand that Worcestershire Highways Authority takes immediate action to deal with the speeding problem in Habberley Road, particularly near the entrance to Habberley Valley. Use of plastic bags Councillors agreed to encourage publicity for the reduction in the use of plastic bags as suggested in the letter from Bethany Neilson of 1st Bewdley Brownies. Illumination of Bewdley Bridge Councillors noted that this project was still progressing and quotations were considered for the electrical installation work. Grants to local organisations Councillors agreed the donations to be made in the 2009/2010 financial year. Additional monies due from Wyre Forest District Council Councillors agreed that the request for £12,007 due under Section 136 of the Local Government Act would be for: Wyre Hill Play Area- £2,110 The effect of this decision is that funding from the Town Council would cease after 6 months after which time full responsibility for the Play Area would revert to Wyre Forest District Council. Youth Café- £1,500 War Memorials Maintenance- £500 Bewdley Development Trust- £1,500 for the Discover Bewdley Weekend Flowers- £1,000- Additional funds for Town Centre flowers Illumination of Bewdley Bridge- £2,997 Bewdley Museum- £1,000- For improvements to the Guildhall entrance lobby. Tourism/Christmas Lights - £900 Party in the Park- £300 Churchyards maintenance- £200 Further expenditure Councillors agreed to spend £1,060 on summer and winter flowers for the town centre and £395.00 to renovate the Beales Corner Notice board. TOWN COUNCIL NEWS IS PRODUCED AND PUBLISHED BY BEWDLEY TOWN COUNCIL
Home Tuition
Experienced Physics and Maths Teacher (KS3,KS4,AS/A2) to Students 9 – Adult
R.Fitter M.Sc
01299 409460
Algarve Apartment
Luxury 2-bed apartment on small development. Sleeps 4 - 6. Fullyequipped kitchen lounge & balcony Large pool, tennis courts etc. 10min walk to beach.
Tel : 01299405375
JEM GROVES
Painter & Decorator Dulux select decorator
High Quality workmanship Home 01562 637609 Mobile 07980425813
E-mail jemgroves29@hotmail.co.uk
Garden Projects Designed and Built Landscaping and Fencing Specialists Full Gardens or Individual Features Tel :01562 638200 Mobile : 07977 334418 www.magic-gardens.info
Letters to the editor
INSPIRATION There was I, 70 years old, retired and in good health, having the time of my life taking up new interests and hobbies, joining various organisations and making lots of new friends, then suddenly it all went pear-shape. I suddenly became immobile together with terrible pain and after a lengthy stay in hospital I was finally diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. My life suddenly on hold and my husband became my full-time carer. Being an incurable disease, the outlook was not particularly good but during my stay in hospital I was inundated with lovely cards from friends and well-wishers and upon my return home, along came the boxes of chocolates and biscuits together with beautiful bouquets of flowers and offers of help and support. Neighbours were knocking on my door asking after me – one or two of these actually suffering from the same condition. A number of them took the time to visit me and encourage me to look forward knowing that things would eventually improve. These people and all my many kind well-wishers were a wonderful inspiration to me. It just goes to show, people with busy lives and troubles of their own will still find the time for you in your hour of need – that certainly goes for all my friends and wonderful neighbours anyway and I could not thank them enough. Mrs Jean Smallwood Bewdley Brownies
Congratulations to Bewdley Brownies on adopting as their Guiding Project ‘Help to change the world’, the task of reducing the number of plastic bags used each year. The Town Council did ask the Chamber of Trade last year to try to make Bewdley a plastic bag-free town, but it is difficult for the traders to supply paper bags, which are more expensive. However, some supermarkets and shops are
Community News
beginning to charge for having a new plastic bag and most are not having plastic bags on show. It is not difficult to take your own shopping bag or some used plastic bags for all the shopping. We can all do our share by using the ‘Bewdley’ or ‘Bewdley Festival’ bags when shopping. Well done, Brownies – keep on trying to educate us all that the earth’s resources are finite and we all need to do all we can to change the world. Jan Adams Film Star found!
Many thanks for inserting my note in last month’s issue of The Bridge seeking the whereabouts of a Bewdley Grandfather Clock. I have already received three responses.
Best wishes, Ken Hobson Ed: Ken what are you doing with the clock? Emergency phone number ICE campaign
We all carry our mobile phones with names & numbers stored in its memory. If we were to be involved in an accident or were taken ill, the people attending us would have our mobile phone but wouldn't know who to call. The concept of 'ICE' is catching on quickly. It is a method of contact during emergency situations. As mobile phones are carried by the majority of the population, all you need to do is store the number of a person to contact in an emergency under the name 'ICE' (In Case Of Emergency).
Emergency Service personnel and hospital Staff would be able to quickly contact the right person by simply dialling the number you have stored as 'ICE'. It really could save your life, or put a loved one's mind at rest. For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc.
THE ODD JOB `CO
We specialise in the small odd jobs nobody else wants to do.
What we offer:
• • • •
• • • •
Fixing leaking taps Assembling flat packs Carpentry Fitting electrical switches and sockets Painting Grass cutting General property maintenance Window cleaning
Whatever job you need doing call us to see how we can help.
Tel: 01299 400859 Mob: 07754801066
Reasonable rates assured
BEWDLEY TILE WALL & FLOOR TILING PROFESSIONAL TILER with 20 years experience Call RICHARD MOORE
Telephone : 07979 241892
Mark Woodward BA (hons). Furniture Designer/Maker. Bringing real quality to your home or business! Sitting room furniture; Dining furniture; Bedroom furniture; Bespoke kitchens; Bespoke bathroom furniture; Purpose made interior/exterior joinery; Full design, manufacture, delivery and installation service! Comprehensive portfolio and references available. If you have a project in mind please do not hesitate to contact me for a free, no obligation quote. Mark Woodward: Tel: (01299) 404775. Mob: 07855661286. mark@definitivefurniture.co.uk
Chores
Professional Domestic Services Cleaning Laundry and Ironing Shopping Gardening Dog Walking Fully Insured Call Mandy….
O7828 491628
Chores help in the home and garden No chore is too small for Chores! www.choreshelp.info
Time to Circle the Wagons.
Community News
Do you remember the Village Bobby with his bike? When was the last time you saw one on foot patrol around your location? With those two questions in mind, we shall move into the 21st Century. Now rural areas are covered by response cars with an occasional visit by a CSO. Crime, we are told, is low in our area (one is one too many), so what can people do to help themselves? I joined the Neighbourhood Watch to try and stop itinerant criminals going for a drive and helping themselves to anything that is not nailed down and to some things that are! We all know the days are gone of leaving your doors unlocked (or we should) but we can do more to help ourselves. Start your own Local Neighbourhood Watch! All you require are people who can keep their eyes open for strange cars and lorries slowly passing or parked nearby, or for strangers knocking on doors asking questions with their eyes all over the place. These are potential career criminals who think people are a ‘soft touch’. They will find to their cost we are not! A simple phone call to your Local Policing Team on 0300 333 3000 will allow them to do something, especially if you have noted the registration number on the vehicle. Wherever possible, we can make a difference and do. There are new Neighbourhood Watch signs, which let the baddies know we are about and watching. My old boss used to say many things that drove me around the bend, but one thing sticks in my mind, the word TEAM. TOGETHER EVERYONE ACHIEVES MORE. We help the Police to help your community, and so can you! Join YOUR Neighbourhood Watch by contacting Bewdley & Rural Local Policing Team for details. As Shaw Taylor used to say “Keep’em peeled”. Rod Wilson Chair of Wyre Forest Neighbourhood Watch.
Community Transport Helpline needs your help
Community Transport Helpline is our local charity with volunteer drivers helping disadvantaged passengers with essential journeys. These are people in our parishes with no other access to transport for their trips – we are often their last resort for help. We work in partnership with the Bewdley Parish and are lucky to have our office in the tower of St Anne’s Church. It’s comfortable and convenient for our work.
We need additional help in the office to handle the increasing numbers of calls for bookings and to match them in our computer diary to volunteer drivers. We’re well equipped with computers with interconnected databases, booking diary and mapping systems, which are not difficult to learn.
Would you like to help on a weekday morning and for holiday relief to help make a real difference to our communities? Come in to see how we work. Call Vince Taylor on 01299 405832
Week of Prayer During the week leading up to Good Friday, Bewdley Baptist Church is opening the church during the day for people who would like to spend time praying. The church will be open from 9.00am-4.00pm from Monday 6th April to Friday 10th of April. There will be a number of different places within the building that can be used: • in the main hall their will be a prayer labyrinth, which involves following the labyrinth marked on the floor and praying at various points • a quiet room to pray in silence • a children’s room for children to do prayer activities Short morning, midday, evening and night prayers will also take place each day at 9.00am, 12.00pm. 6.00pm and 9.00pm Anyone is welcome. To find out more call in at the Baptist Church, ring 403267 or visit www.bewdleybaptist.org.uk
Caption Competition
Chas Long
Sarkozy: Bewdley comes from French for Beautiful Place.
Brown: I am going to rebuild the bridge toll house for extra motoring tax. Obama: This is the small village that Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin came from.
David Glenn
Sarkozy: " Magnifique - what a woman!!!!"
Brown: "Yes Margaret has been a page 3 girl for years now" Obama: "Curses - If only I had known that the Town Clerk's job in Bewdley was coming up - I would have gone for that job!!!"
Ed: Many thanks for all the suggestions!
Paul Mann
Sarkozy: Mon dieu, le Town Council News est tres bien nes ce pas?
Brown: I don't rate it myself but I'll wear a silly smile like you just as long as the cameras are on. Sarkozy: Mon dieu, le Town Council News est tres bien nes ce pas?
Brown: You are so right and to show my profound approval I'll wear a silly smile just like you. (With apologies to the French language)