The Connection Magazine - March/April 2023

Useful phone numbers

Welcome to the March/April Connection

It’s not dark at 5pm anymore... hooray! As much as I love the cosiness of snuggling under blankets with a hot drink during the winter, it’s the little peeps into an impending springtime that really bring me joy. The sunshine on a still-slightly-chilly morning walk; buds appearing on trees; crocuses and daffodils brightening the neighbours’ gardens. Not my garden, unfortunately. It’s a veritable mess at the moment. Perhaps I need to spend a little more time reading the advice in our own gardening articles. This edition has great tips for choosing spring-flowering plants (p.10) As spring approaches, we start to prepare for Mother’s Day and Easter, for which we have further tips in the form of books to gift (p.14) and a wonderful raspberry simnel cake recipe (p8). We’d love to know how your attempts to recreate this Easter bake turn out.

We’re very aware of the issue of loneliness, and the pitfalls of living in a digital world, but there are ways to utilise life online to feel less isolated, which you can read about on page 12. And there’s plenty of local clubs and organisations that are looking for members, which you’ll find details of in our community section (p. 24-28).

Car enthusiasts are once again treated to a review, this time of the new Peugeot 408 ‘fastback’ (p.18). I won’t say anything else about that, given my abysmal knowledge on the subject of motoring. I’ll leave it to the experts!

And football fanatics can read this edition’s round-up of the Premier League goings-on, courtesy of Phil Williams’ usual wonderful penmanship. ‘Back Of The Net’ is on page 23

A couple of super important dates for your diary, because the Rotary Big Breakfast makes a welcome return to Bidford and Alcester in March. Find out all you need to know to be able to enjoy their wonderful grub on page 27.

And finally, please continue to show love and support to your local independent businesses throughout this cost of living crisis. We’ve heard of some that have had to close, and they’re such a vital part of the community. Show them some love if you can, even if it’s just by sharing their posts on social media.

We hope you have a lovely Easter time.

All the best,

May/June Copy Deadline:

Monday 10th April 2023

Facebook.com/theconnectionmag Twitter.com/connection_mag

Connection circulation: 10,500

Editor: Amy James Phone 01789 453130

Email: info@connectionmags.co.uk

www.connectionmags.co.uk

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Serves 10 Preparation time 30 minutes Cooking time 1½ hours

This classic bake with a berry twist is the perfect finishing touch when the family gather for a celebratory Easter feast – or just when it’s time for tea!

Ingredients

• 500g ready-made marzipan

• 150g raspberries, plus 11 for the top (about 50g)

• 200g self-raising flour, plus 1 tbsp

• 175g butter

• 175g caster sugar

• 3 medium eggs plus an egg yolk, beaten

• 50g ground almonds

• 150g sultanas

• 1 egg white, lightly beaten to loosen

The Berry Best For more sweet and savoury recipes starring British berries – strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and cherries – visit www.lovefreshberries.co.uk.

Method

1. Line a 20cm loose-bottomed baking tin with parchment. Roll out a third of the marzipan to a 20cm circle – you can use the base of the tin to cut round. Wrap the remainder and any offcuts and set aside.

2. Preheat the oven to 170°C / fan 150°C / gas mark 3.

3. Toss the 150g raspberries in the extra 1 tbsp of flour and set aside. Beat together the butter and sugar until pale and creamy, then gradually whisk in the eggs and the extra yolk. If the mixture begins to curdle add 1 tbsp of flour and mix in. Sift the flour over the mix and fold in gently until smooth. Fold in the ground almonds, sultanas and floured raspberries.

4. Scrape half the cake mixture into the tin and carefully lay the marzipan round on top. Add the remaining mixture, level the top and bake in the preheated oven for around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes until golden and a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool in the tin for 15 minutes and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Roll out half the remaining marzipan to a circle and sit it on top of the cooled cake. Shape 11 balls from the leftover amount and arrange in a circle on top.

6. Preheat the grill to medium. Brush the cake all over with the egg white and then place under the grill or use a cook’s blow torch to brown gently. Remove from the grill, leave to cool and then decorate with the fresh raspberries.

7. The cake keeps well in airtight container for up to 5 days without the extra berries on top. Alternatively, freeze the cake before adding the marzipan top for up to a month.

Spring-flowering plants – choose wisely

The sap is flowing! Peer closely at a few twigs and you will find buds galore. You can’t fail to have noticed beautiful bulbs are already brightening up the borders. There are wonderful hellebores that never fail to enchant, ravishing rhododendrons and azaleas, elegant camellias, and marvellous magnolias, bergenias and a host of other early spring beauties.

Don’t assume that you can grow anything, anywhere, however. Plants are like people in that they have their own particular needs and dislikes.

Rhododendrons and azaleas were once categorised as separate species but they are now grouped together. There are subtle differences. Azaleas are always evergreen, whereas some rhododendrons are deciduous. They all need slightly acidic, moist soils and prefer dappled shade and sheltered conditions The leaves of a rhododendron are thick and leathery, but azalea leaves are generally smaller, often with fine hairs covering the surface. Rhododendrons produce large trusses of multiple flowers whereas azalea flowers appear at the end of the stem, in smaller numbers. The range of colours within this genus is impressive, from the purest white flower, through to yellows, oranges, reds, lilacs and purples. These shrubs were introduced to the UK way back in the sixteenth century and are currently enjoying a revival in popularity.

Camellias are newer arrivals, having been brought here early in the eighteenth century. These evergreen shrubs also need an acidic soil and they like dappled shade, sheltered from wind. Avoid an east-facing position where

morning sun can scorch the winter and spring flowers. It is important to keep these flowering shrubs well-watered in summer when they are forming next year’s flower buds. Use rainwater, where possible, because tap water is generally too alkaline.

Magnolias are shrubs with shapely forms and wonderful creamy-white and pink spring flowers. Some of these are giants but they are often shoehorned into spaces that are too small. The resulting pruning tends to spoil their shape and often promotes a wild growing frenzy that makes matters worse. Many magnolias produce goblet-shaped flowers, whilst others delight the season with glorious star-shaped blooms. It’s important to appreciate that their ancestors inhabited primitive, ancient forests. This tells you that they like a little shelter, even though the modern cultivars can tolerate city living and even bright sun.

Hellebores are woodland-edge plants that like dappled shade and moist (but not boggy) soils. They can thrive in most types of soil, provided it is nutrient-rich. Give them the right conditions and they need very little care, save a mulch to help retain moisture within the growing position.

Bergenias are brilliant ground-cover evergreens that can grow almost anywhere, even though they prefer slight shade and moist soil.

Elephant’s ears, as they are commonly known, are great perennials for the beginner as they also help to supress weeds. The early spring flowers are generally pink but can also be red, lilac or white. These are held on stalks and they create a truly uplifting scene at a time when colour is scarce.

By Caroline Knight

If you suffer from loneliness from time to time, ironically, you’re not alone. According to ‘The Lonely Society’, a report published by the Mental Health Foundation (MHF), 48% of those surveyed believed that Britain is becoming a lonelier place.

The Covid-19 pandemic is partly to blame. After spending so long in survival mode, isolated from the ones we love, many of us still find it increasingly hard to coax ourselves out of that more guarded and introverted mindset. This is made even more pronounced when we factor in the move from communal offices to remote working, which has changed the lives of millions of people across the UK.

The ever-advancing progression of technology and social media is also believed to be a contributor. Despite claims that technology helps us connect with people, many experts believe that having constant access to technology can actually prevent us from building personal relationships.

Although many of us will be familiar with the upset of not being invited to a party, or the devastation of losing a loved one, what many people don’t know is that loneliness can also have a serious impact on our physical health. The work of neuroscientists such as John Cacioppo at the University of Chicago has shown that the stress of loneliness can directly affect our mental and physical wellbeing, with a cumulative effect on the heart that is the equivalent of a non-smoker taking up smoking.

So, with this in mind, what’s the best way to overcome loneliness?

Get a new job or share your skills

You could use your free time to volunteer for a local charity, or try joining a new group or class. You’ll meet new people and be filled with a revived sense of purpose.

Practice self-care

It’s easy to let loneliness eat away at your confidence and self-esteem. Try to avoid falling into a negative headspace by practicing gratitude, meditation and mindfulness.

Reminding yourself about the good things in life or reminiscing on happy times can help you to think more positively.

Reach out to someone

Talking to someone about how you feel can be a helpful way to cope with the negative emotions associated with loneliness. If there isn’t anyone you can trust, the campaigning and lobbying organisation Campaign to End Loneliness can help. Although they don’t recruit volunteers directly, you can visit their website at www. campaigntoendloneliness.org to find information about volunteering opportunities.

Find support online

Using technology in the right way can be a fantastic way to meet new like-minded people. Find people with similar interests by joining Facebook or Meetup groups, and check to see if any apps you use, like fitness or workout apps, have a social element or discussion board to join.

While you do have to be careful, it’s possible to find real support, connection and lasting friendships with people you meet online.

Lawns do wonders for our wellbeing. That’s why we’ve devised three programmes of year-round treatments to keep your grass a cut above.

From controlling weeds to bringing out the green, we’ll help you to look after the lawn that looks after you. Discover more at greenthumb.co.uk

Worcester branch - 01905 840740

worcester@greenthumb.co.uk

All You Ever Wanted – Susan Elliot Wright

A dark and sinister tale of toxic family relationships, full of secrets and lies. A happy marriage, husband and baby, yet Emily can’t help feeling something isn’t right: someone is keeping a big secret from her – and they know her life-changing secret too…

You’ll Never Walk Alone – Rachel Kelly

The Sunday Times best-selling author brings you a lovely collection of inspirational poetry. One for every week of the year, the 52 poems are organised into seasons – from the dark and wintry to the spring-like and hopeful – with insightful notes from the author.

Whatever Next? Lessons from an Unexpected Life – Anne Glenconner

From Maid of Honour at the late Queen’s coronation in 1953 to Lady in Waiting to Princess Margaret, Anne Glenconner brings her bracing honesty, characteristic wit and courage to reflect on – and reveal more –about her fascinating life and the hard-won lessons learnt in diplomacy, marriage and motherhood.

Deliciously Vintage Baking & Desserts – Victoria Glass

It’s not hard to see why some cakes and bakes become classics, with family recipes handed down through the generations. From cookies and cakes to pastries and desserts, Victoria Glass charts the delicious range of some of our much-loved classics, guaranteed to hit all the right notes of nostalgia and deliciousness.

Inspirational reads to mark International Women’s Day and great gift ideas for Mother’s Day.

9am - 4pm Saturday: 9am - 3pm

DOG FRIENDLY Follow @bidfordvillagecafe on Facebook

Ted Welford heads to Barcelona to test Peugeot’s new 408 fastback.

What is it?

Peugeot is calling the new 408 a ‘fastback’ and is targeting those looking to escape an SUV who want something more exciting than a traditional hatchback.

What’s new?

The 408 looks striking with its colour-coded, frameless grille, along with SUV cladding for a more rugged appearance.

Hybrid versions are predicted to account for the bulk of sales, while technology includes Peugeot’s latest i-Cockpit system.

What’s under the bonnet?

The three powertrains are a 128bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a choice of two plug-in hybrids. The hybrids use a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired to the same electric motor and battery. An eight-speed automatic gearbox delivers power to the front wheels. There are two combined power outputs –178bhp or 222bhp – and 0-60mph took 7.6 seconds in our top-spec test car, with a top speed of 145mph.

Peugeot claims up to 40 miles of electric range, over 200mpg and CO2 emissions of 26g/km. Charging takes three hours and 25 minutes or an hour and 40 minutes with a faster onboard charger.

What’s it like to drive?

Compared to rival Citroen’s C5 X, with its softer suspension, the 408 feels flatter through the corners, and more secure when accelerating quickly. Roadholding is good and the hybrid setup delivers some punch in ‘Sport’ mode.

It rides well, has comfortable leather and Alcantara seats and feels refined on motorways. The hybrid system isn’t the smoothest, however, and the petrol engine and gearbox aren’t the quietest or most responsive.

How does it look?

There’s an awful lot going on, with lines, creases, and angles all over the place, but combined, it’s a really smart package. That frameless front grille is stunning, as are Peugeot’s trademark ‘claw’ headlights. There’s too much rear plastic cladding, while the 20-inch optional alloy wheels are challenging.

What’s it like inside?

Inside, the 408 feels larger than a regular hatchback. The 471-litre boot (536 litres on non-plug-in models) is a great size, and rear seat room and headroom is decent. Cabin quality is excellent.

The i-Cockpit system is a touch hit-and miss, however, and the top of the small steering wheel restricts the view of the dials.

What’s the spec like?

Standard equipment on the entry-level Allure trim includes Peugeot’s latest fantastic 10inch touchscreen, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, 17-inch alloy wheels and a reversing camera. Mid-spec Allure Premium has 19-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and adaptive cruise control. The GT packs full Matrix LED headlights, a heated steering wheel and electric boot, plus the aforementioned colour-coded grille.

The 408 starts from £31,050, but the cheapest hybrid version is £38,400. A like-for-like Citroen C5 X undercuts this by several thousand pounds.

Verdict

The Peugeot 408 feels like a breath of fresh air and will likely appeal to both hatchback and SUV buyers.

With a high-quality interior, good on-road manners and generous space, the 408 is a welcome addition to the Peugeot line-up. However, the 408’s sharper design and slightly better interior doesn’t quite justify its price over its arch-rival, Citroen’s C5 X.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER

THINK ‘WIDEN’ TO KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE

Nearly two-thirds of us are worried about our home being broken into, yet there are simple, proven measures we can all take to halve our chances of being burgled.

NHW Network UK has joined forces with primary smart security partner, ERA Home Security, to Think WIDE(N) a burglary prevention campaign highlighting simple, evidence-based WIDE measures for all homes. NHW believe neighbours should keep an eye out for each other as a key to reducing burglary, so we’ve extended the WIDE acronym to WIDE(N):

• W: WINDOWS: Keep your windows locked

• I: INTERIOR: Put inside lights on a timer/ smart bulb

• D: DOORS: Double or deadlock your doors

• E: EXTERIOR: Put outside lights on a sensor

• (N): NEIGHBOURS: Keep an eye out for your neighbours.

Leaving home? Learn more about home security at ourwatch.org.uk/thinkwiden.

Communicating with the Police: Emergencies and active crime, call 999. The Police non emergency number: 101 to be used to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response. 101 diverts to your local Police. Calls cost 15p per call, (landlines and mobiles).

Alcester Police South Safer

Neighbourhood Watch Scheme

Team email: alcestersouth.snt@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk

SGT 1685 David Ebbs

david.ebbs@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk

PC 1672 Rob Davies robert.davies4@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk

PCSO 6327 Carolyn Davis

carolyn.davis1@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk

PCSO 6111 Gary Johnson-Jones gary.johnson-jones@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk

Alcester Office 01789 444816. Always report an active crime on 999. Non-emergency calls on 101. Online reporting services are also available on our website: https://www.warwickshire.police.uk/ Facebook - Alcester Police Twitter - @AlcesterCops Instagram - southwarwickshiresnts

Call Crimestoppers anonymously with information about crime on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is a charity that will pass on information to police without revealing any details of the caller.

Contact Warwickshire Trading Standards 01926 414040 to report a suspect rogue trader. General advice on scams and rogue traders contact 0845 4040 506.

You can report a fraud or cyber crime to Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

For more information about Neighbourhood Watch Alcester please contact nhwalcester@gmail.com or telephone Dorrie Manders on 01789 762999.

Not so easy grid

Alcester Town Council

MARCH-APRIL 2023

Alcester Window Wonderland

January 2023 saw Alcester’s streets being transformed into a magical window walk-about for the fourth year running. A tremendous response this year with 36 properties registered and some amazing windows! Awards were made for best Community, Creative, Positive Message & Classroom windows. A generous donation from Seco Tools, enabled this event to run as well as two workshops. Advance notice: Next year’s event will take place from 20-28 January 2024.

Advance Notice: Annual Parish Meeting

Tuesday 4 April 2023 at 7pm

Alcester War Memorial Town Hall

Please contact Alcester Town Council for more information on: 01789 766084 or clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk

Town Council Meetings

All Town Council meetings are held in person at Globe House with the exception of the Planning Committee which generally meets using Zoom.

All meetings commence at 7pm:

Full Council - Tues 7 March & 11 April Planning Committee - Mon 20 March & 17 April Finance & General Purposes CommitteeTues 28 March & 25 April

Mayor’s Civic Awards

January was a busy month!

The outstanding contributions from members of the Alcester community were recognised at the Mayor’s Civic Awards evening held at the newly refurbished Greig Hall. 2022 Awards from the Mayor, Cllr Kathryn Cargill, were made to the Young Person (Daisy & Cerys Dillon-Cambridge and Isobel Parker-see photo above), Community Organisation (The Crafty Lunch Club), Citizen of the Year (Sheilagh Goode and Andrew Matheson) and this year a special Lifetime Achievement award (Mike Gittus). Prizes were also awarded to the winners of the 2022 allotment competition.

Members of the public are welcome to attend all Council meetings and are given time at the start of the meetings to speak. Anyone wishing to attend or ask questions is advised to contact the Town Clerk on clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk before the meeting to obtain further details.

Agendas are published on the Town Council website at www.alcester-tc.gov.uk and copies can be viewed on the Council notice boards.

Alcester Town Council Contact Details: The Town Council offices are open Monday to Friday, 9am-1pm.

If you have an enquiry for the Town Council, please phone 01789 766084 or email clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk and we will respond as soon as we can.

Alcester Town Council offices: Globe House, Priory Road, Alcester B49 5DZ Tel: 01789 766084

Town Clerk - Vanessa Lowe: clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk

Planning & Communication - Sarah Duran: administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk

Health & Wellbeing - Wendy Sherwood: info@alcester-tc.gov.uk

Office Administrator - Tim Forman: office@alcester-tc.gov.uk

Further information also available at: www.facebook.com/alcester.towncouncil www.twitter.com/AlcesterTown

BACK OF THE NET

Hello again, long suffering footie fans. How has your team performed since the season’s re-start? I suspect there’s not much difference unless you follow a team that’s had a change of manager/head coach.

Southampton have just sacked their second boss within a couple of months. Does that mean Nathan Jones will be going back to Luton Town for his third stint? Of course, there’s the usual press talk about possible replacements, with recently sacked Jesse Marsch one of those mentioned, as well as Lampard and Gerrard, who has also ‘apparently’ shown interest in taking Marsch’s place at Leeds. All of these positions will quite probably be resolved by the time we go to print and completely different names may be in place.

That’s the thing I dislike most about modern

day sports ‘reporters’. They tend to mostly make up stories rather than reporting them after the event. It’s all ‘could happen’. Of course, anything COULD happen. Mini rant over.

Recent weeks have seen Arsenal’s grip on the premiership title slip a little, although if they were to win their game in hand they would be six points ahead of Man City. But the day we go to print these two teams play each other (at Arsenal). Interesting, eh!

All of the top teams are losing points, with Brighton and Brentford being top points scorers over the previous five league games. Now that’s something I never expected! The WSL is almost mirroring the men’s Premiership, with ManU fighting it out at the top alongside Chelsea (I did say almost), Man City and Arsenal. Villa are fifth but a long way off the top four. With two granddaughters, I see the huge recent rise in women’s football as another great opportunity for girls getting in to sport. There are some really hard working people coaching football at a local level, both for boys and girls. Nip down to your local park, you may be surprised. Till next time...

Back of the net!

Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS 4th MAY 2023

As some of you may already know, there will be Parish Council elections on Thursday 4th May 2023, when 11 Members will be elected to represent their local community for a period of four years.

Anyone, over the age of 18 who is a British Citizen can be nominated. Nomination Papers will be available from the Parish Council Office in Bramley Way and from Stratford on Avon DC Offices at Elizabeth House, from 15th March. So, what does a Parish Councillor do and why should you consider becoming one? Well, for starters, “they make a massive difference to local people’s quality of life. They are passionate about their communities and seek to make a change to help improve their residents’ lives…Becoming a Councillor is a rewarding experience as you will be able to make a change in your community”. “Parish Councils can only be as helpful, connected and energetic as the people elected to run them, so communities need Councillors capable, enthusiastic and engaged to reflect their communities”. Interested to learn more? Go to www.walc.org.uk/information/becomea-councillor for more information and/or contact the Clerk on 07718 628925 or by email at info@ bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk

NEW PARISH COUNCIL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT (part-time)

The Parish Council is pleased to welcome Hilary Wren, who lives in Alcester, as the new Part Time Administrative Assistant to the Clerk. She will be the Parish Council Office’s first port of call Monday to Thursday mornings: 10.00am – 1.00pm Monday and Tuesday and 10.00am –12.00pm Wednesday and Thursday.

Hilary has experience in both local councils and the voluntary sector and Council is sure she will be a great asset to the office and a help to the Clerk.

COST OF LIVING

This is affecting each and every one of us. To help its residents, the Parish council has created a single site “COST OF LIVING” where it will post all relevant information and tips. Visit: bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/cost-of-living/

POLICE SURGERIES

Wednesday 15th March and 26th April.

CITIZENS ADVICE - BIDFORD OUTREACH

The first Thursday of the month in the Parish Council Room (in the library) 10.00 - 13.00. Appointments must be pre-booked. This provides essential advice in these difficult times and is carried out in complete confidence. Please note that the library is closed on Thursdays. Full details available on the Parish Council website bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/citizens-advice-bidfordoutreach. You are also able to book via the Clerk – email info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk giving name, contact details and reason for the appointment. The Clerk is the Council’s GDPR Officer and you can be assured all will be treated in the highest confidence.

Dates will be: Thursday 2nd March and 6th April.

CONCERNS/ISSUES

If you have a concern or issue about anything within the Parish, please contact the Clerk instead of posting on Social Media (Bidford Forum) where it may be missed and, therefore, remain unanswered or unresolved.

BIDFORD CAR FOBS

These are available for all residents within the Parish who will be able to start applying from 1st March. Please note that if you are not on the Electoral Roll, you will need to come with your Council Tax Invoice as proof of residence. If you already have a fob and have not changed your car, you do not need to apply for a new one.

WEEKLY EVENTS

Mondays 10.30 – 11.30am STORYTOTS Bidford Community Library

Mondays 10.30 – 12.30pm DEMENTIA CAFÉ

Westholme Court

Mondays 1.00 - 2.30pm ARTY AVON at the Church Hall

Wednesdays 10.00am – 12.00 WARM HUB at the Crawford Memorial Hall

Thursdays 10.00 - 11.30am THE JOLLY TEAPOT at St Laurence Church rooms

Friday (every fortnight) 3.30 - 4.30pm LEGO at Bidford Community Library.

Bidford on Avon Parish Council

MEETINGS

• Monday 13th March and 10th April @ 7.30 pm

Planning Consultative Committee Meeting

• Monday 27th March and 24th April @ 7.30 pm

Parish Council Meeting

All meetings, which are open to the public, are held at the Parish Council Meeting Room, Bramley Way, B50 4QG (unless stated otherwise). It is at these meetings that decisions that directly affect our village and our local community are made – so be part of it and come and see it happen.

BIDFORD EMAIL INFORMATION – Want to know what’s happening in the village every week? Simply email the Clerk at info@ bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk and your name will be added to the mailing list to receive a weekly email regarding upcoming Events and Notices.

SOCIAL MEDIA – For more community updates, please follow us via Facebook (Bidford on Avon) Twitter (@Bidford_PC) and now also on Instagram (bidfordpc) A lot of information and

updates are published through Social Media, so do make sure you follow us to stay informed.

PARISH COUNCIL CONTACTS

Clerk to the Parish Council: Mrs. Elisabeth Uggerløse

The Parish Council Office is located in Bramley Way and is open to the public 10.00 am to 1.00 pm (subject to meetings, site visits etc.)

Tel No: 01789 778653 / 07718 628 925

Email: info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk

Web: www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk

Parish Councillors: a list of Parish Councillors can be found online:

www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/councillors.htm

PS Keep an eye on the What’s On part of the website for Events. bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/whats-on/ They will also be advertised on Social Media.

Elisabeth Uggerløse Clerk to the Parish Council

community events & what’s on... community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 3rd of April.

Harvington Phoenix Ladies Group

We meet on the first Wednesday of the month at 7.45pm. Anyone interested in joining our group, please contact Lesley on 07768 130641, or come along to our meetings at Harvington Village Hall.

Broom WI

Meetings are held in Broom Village Hall on the first Thursday of the month, commencing at 7.30 pm.

2nd March: 'Tax, Care and The New Guy', presented by Sam Passi of Silvertime Legal Planning. 6th April: 'Volunteering at the 2022 Commonwealth Games', with Bob Mansfield.

Salford Priors Gardening Club

We meet at 7.30pm on the first Friday of the month at Salford Priors Memorial Hall, School Road, WR11 8XD. March 3rd, ‘Perennials from Seed’ by Rob Cole. A hands-on demonstration.

April 7th - ‘An evening with Reg Moule’, radio presenter from BBC local radio.

May 5th - ‘The Wonderful World of Clematis’ by Helen Picton of Old Court Nursery. Visitors always welcome, £4 for non-members. Contact salfordpriorsgc@aol. com or 07961 377506 for more details.

Alcester Flower Club

Meeting at Alcester Catholic Church Hall, Priory Road, Alcester, B49 5DY at 7.30pm on the first Monday of the month. If you love flowers and art you will enjoy an evening of beautiful flowers and artistic design.

Monday 6th March, "Tools of the Trade" a flower arranging demonstration by Yvonne Berry.

Monday 3rd April, "Spring is the Air", a flower arranging demonstration by Ruth Mahon. Visitors are welcome to join us. Please contact Marian Buchanan 01789 400868 for information.

Alcester WI

Thursday 9th March - What better way to celebrate the beginning of spring than by joining us and Frances Freeman who will be talking about taking a "Walk in the Woods". Bring a walking companion - husband/brother/sister/friend - with you and plan an expedition. All are welcome.

On Thursday 13th April, we take a step back in history to learn about "Medieval Practices with the Wise Woman", otherwise known as Pam Manning. It could be very useful and will certainly be interesting. All wise women - or even unwise women -are welcome to join us! As usual we meet on the second Thursday of each month in Malt Mill Lane Community Centre at 7.30 p.m. Do come and join us and enjoy a sociable evening with both old and new friends.

Bidford on Avon WI

Our meetings are on the second Thursday of the month at The Church Hall, Church Street, Bidford, starting at 7.30pm. 9th March: 'Developing your conversational and listening skills', with Dan White.

13th April: 'The Unknown Soldier', talk by Elaine Butler (President Warwickshire British Legion). For more information call Elizabeth on 01789 773390, or Ann on 07977 626814 or email bidford.wi_sec@btinternet. com. You can also find us on Facebook, Bidford on Avon WI.

Cookhill Garden Club

Our meetings are at 7.30pm on Wednesdays at Cookhill Village Hall. Wednesday 15th March, 'Downsizing', a talk by Rob Cole. Wednesday 19th April, 'All Year Bulb Gardens', a talk by Jim Almond. Visitors welcome, £5 for non-members. www.cookhillgarden.club for more details.

Bidford History Society

The Book Launch of Jack Moore's 'Avon Almanac' will be held at Crawford Hall, Bidford at 2.30pm on Saturday 18th March. Our talks are held at the Crawford Memorial Hall Bidford on Avon, starting at 7.30pm. March 17th, 'Defining Victorian Architecture', a talk by Tim Bridges. April 21st, 'Excavating History at Farnborough Hall', by Dr Stephen Wass.

Bidford Gardening Society

All meetings are held in The Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start. Further details on www.Bidfordgardens.com.

Arty Avon

Arty Avon is an arts and crafts community group. We meet every Monday, 1-2.30pm at the Church Hall, Bidford on Avon, B50 4DA. Bring along your own crafty project or try out our taster activity for the week. Lovely, friendly group with a wide range of skills including complete beginners. £2 contribution towards group costs. Refreshments included. Email artyavon@gmail.com for more details.

Welford Bowls Club

Enjoy the game of bowls indoors in the winter and outdoors in the summer. No age restrictions, so great for all the family. Whether you would like to try the sport or are a seasoned bowler, we would love to introduce you to our friendly Club. We also have a function room & bar with a skittle alley for your social events. Easy free parking. Interested? Email bowls@ boldlink.co.uk for more information.

community events & what’s on... community & on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 3rd of April

Alcester Cafe

Alcester Café is a drop-in café, held twice weekly, dedicated to help support people with memory problems/dementia, their families, carers, former carers and interested professional people. Run on a weekly basis, every Tuesday and Friday (except Good Friday, Christmas Day and New Years Day) from 10.30am12.30pm, at the Eric Payne Centre. Call 01789 765971 for more information or we have an excellent website, www.alcesterdementiacafe.org.

Bidford Dementia Cafe

Bidford Dementia Cafe is a place to find understanding, get support, do memory activities and have a good time. Refreshments and activities are free. We meet at Westholme Court, Westholme Road, Bidford on Avon on Monday mornings, from 10.30 to 12.30. For more information contact Wendy on 0771 364 8716 or Michael on 0772 587 8530.

Alcester Art Club

Meeting every Thursday at Church House, Butter Street, Alcester, from 7 to 9pm, we are a group of people who enjoy painting. We have occasional demonstrations and an exhibition during the Autumn Street Market. Our costs are purely to pay the rent and for extra occasions, not for profit, just for fun. No need to be able to paint, just be keen and enthusiastic. Contact Sally White, 07443 510545.

Alcester Bridge Club

A small and friendly club, we play duplicate bridge on Friday evenings from 7pm to 10pm at the Jubilee Court Social meeting room. We warmly welcome new members. Please contact either Joe White on 01789 763943 or Paul Brenda on 01789 765077 if you would like to join us. (Email: joe_patwhite@msn.com or sallebrenda@hotmail.com).

Broom Bridge Club

Every Wednesday 11am at Broom Village Hall plus a weekly online offering. Lessons available. For more information contact Julie on 07807 495039.

Temple Grafton WI

Our meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Wednesday of the month at Graftons Village Hall, Temple Grafton. For further details email eileen.timms258@btinternet. com or call 01789 773671.

Bidford Darby & Joan

Bidford on Avon Darby & Joan Club for over 55s meet at Westholme Court, February-November 2-4 pm for socializing/bingo and trips out. For more information telephone 01789 778109.

Bidford Community Group - Jolly Teapot

We meet every Thursday from 10am to 11:30 at The Church Hall, Bidford. Please come along and meet new friends for a cuppa & a chat.

Bingo at Bidford Bowling Club

Come and join us on Friday nights. Eyes down 7 pm. Licensed bar at popular prices.

Alcester & District Local History Society

www.alcesterhistory.org.uk

Bidford History Society

www.bidfordhistory.org.uk

Alcester Town Hall

alcestertownhall.org.uk

Warwickshire Vision Support

Alcester Vision Support Centre meet 3rd Tuesday of the Month from 1.30 – 3.30pm at: Malt Mill Lane Community Centre, Malt Mill Lane, Alcester, B49 5QR. For more information call 01926 411331. Our aim is to provide information for those with Vision loss and those who may need advice. The afternoon includes demonstrations of equipment, I.T. support by appointment, talks and a friendly chat with a cup of tea.

Alcester u3a

For information about Alcester u3a see our website https://u3asites.org.uk/alcester/home.

Single Boots

We are a Midlands based walking club for single people. We organise weekend day walks, summer evening walks, weekend trips away in cottages, B&B’s and camping, social activities. Please visit our website: www.singleboots.co.uk.

Bidford Community Library

Bidford Library and Community Hub can be found next door to the school in Bramley Way. We are open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays from 10.00 a.m. till 4.00 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10.00 till 12.00. Please pop in and don’t forget to ask about the activities we run for both adults and children. Our phone number is 01789 773239.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month. Contact Barbara McIlwaine on 01789 778392 for details.

Alcester & District Men’s Probus

Alcester Mens Probus is a group of retired business men meeting on the 4th Wednesday of the month for lunch followed by a guest speaker. Meetings are at Kings Court Hotel, Alcester 12:15 for 12:30. New members welcome. Full details of membership are available by email: david@hancox1971.co.uk.