MY
June/July 2016
SOLIHULL,
CENTRAL
Your award winning local community magazine
Talking sports journalism with
On your bike! With Solihull Lions
Gary Newbon
Solihull mums & dads
\
Keep your finger on the pulse
Madonna & Guy Richie’s custody battle
PLUS
Local business directory inside!
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Editors Welcome
MY
Welcome Back Neighbours & Readers,
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5
COVER STORY: Gary Newbon
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Cricket season’s in full swing
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Madonna’s custody battle
15 Friends in Retirement 17 Nettle season - a healing recipe 22 Co working. The way of the future 23 Dr Louise - understanding strokes
Julia Parsons
25 Vintage Solihull
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The Team Editor Julia Parsons Advertising Amy Watson Design Ruby Watson
27 Human of Solihull: Annette Hulme
Regulars 19 What’s on
See page 27 for advert rates & sizes Reach out on social media and tell us what you’d like to see in future issues!
In this issue
June/July 2016
15 Heart of England bike ride
Till the next issue - have a wonderful mid-Summer.
07831 395029 juliaparsons @swanpublishing.org www.swanpublishing.org
CENTRAL
13 Let’s get kinky
We hope you like the new look of our magazine. It was a joy to meet Gary Newbon with his talented lovely wife. And our Human of Solihull, Annette Hulme - whose simple idea borne of her own need, has become an essential tool for many of Solihull’s grateful parents.
SOLIHULL,
21 Where to eat 25 Tutor listing
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29 Clubs & Societies 30 Business directory Photo on cover by www.sevenstarphotography.co.uk
Photography by www.sevenstarphotography.co.uk
Gary Newbon
In an interview with Julia Parsons
A life in sport journalism
This journalist, interviewer and broadcaster epitomizes ‘sports’ and ‘football’. He’s lived and breathed it for the last 52 years of which 48 have been in TV but interestingly in our discussion he revealed it was his relationship with the late Brian Clough that meant a great deal and a memorable incident in 1999 with Alex Ferguson, manager of Manchester United. Gary tells the story: “They were losing 1-0 to Bayern Munich in Barcelona but in the stoppages Man U scored twice and extraordinarily - won. I interviewed Alex straight after the end of the match and I’d say he was in a state of shock - his mind had gone blank. He shook his head and said… ‘Football, bloody hell’. That has gone down into legend.” Gary lives in Solihull, having raised his family here – a daughter who has followed him into journalism and twin boys – all with successful careers. He met his wife Katie 42 years ago in the newsroom at ATV. There’s plenty on the internet about Gary’s distinguished career from newspapers in Fleet Street to becoming Deputy Head of ITV sport and Controller of Sport for Central Television for 23 years and there are many top familiar names who can thank him for being the catalyst for their career beginnings. Ask Gary about his opinion on a youngster today following in his career footsteps and he shakes his head. It’s so different now with the demise of newspapers and regional TV. But he recommends work experience and attitude - accepting being the gofer
and being resourceful. Taking media studies courses can lead to disappointment. It’s a tough world to get into now.
He feels football has changed, affected by the market forces created by money - thanks to TV fees and demanding sports agents. Now in his early 70s, Gary is undeterred at the travelling required to get to work at Sky Sports. He is currently presenting Sporting Heroes, a series in which Gary interviews in-depth, the legends of sport. Does he want to retire? - does he heck! He loves his work and life is good whilst he can continue in the sports world he’s passionate about. An extended version of this article is available at our online site: www.swanpublishing.org
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Cricket season in full swing! Holding the title of the second most popular sport in the world shows how eager we are (as a predominantly cold and wet country) to get back into the game.
I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that over at Edgbaston Stadium they’re gearing up for a 2016 to remember. Major match tickets are selling fast - act now if you don’t want to miss out! It’s not just adults who have all the fun, cricket is massively popular with kids and there are plenty of opportunities for them to discover this great sport in the local area. Moseley Going to a cricket match is such an exhilarating experience when you really commit to the occasion. For those eager few who are just out for a great time but aren’t so savvy on what the game’s about, all you need is a bit of the lingo. We’ve put together some cricket terminology that should help you out - or at least get a few laughs:
Baggy Green - Green cricket cap that’s been worn by Australian test match cricketers since around the turn of the 20thC. Cart-wheeling stump - When the ball hits a stump with enough force to cause it flip endover-end before landing.
Find out more about your local clubs here: Hampton & Solihull Cricket Club www.hamptonandsolihullcc.com Solihull Municipal Cricket Club www.solihullmcc.co.uk Solihull Blossomfield CC www. solihullblossomfield.play-cricket. com West Warwickshire Sports Club www.westwarwicks.co.uk
Cherry - Name for the ball, usually used by Australians. Daisy cutter - When a ball rolls along the pitch or bounces more than two times.
Flash - to wield the bat aggressively. Rabbit - a particularly incompetent batsman. Be sure to tweet us any funny (or helpful) ones we missed out! Written by Ruby Watson
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Madonna’s custody battle
Madonna has recently been granted permission to end the British legal action over the custody of her 15 year old son, Rocco, highlighting an issue faced by many divorcing and divorced parents. Local family law specialist Sian Kenkre of The Wilkes Partnership sheds some light on the issue. The singer is in dispute with her ex-husband Guy Ritchie over where the teenager should live. Hearings have been held in both New York and London, but Madonna recently asked London’s High Court to bring the English proceedings to a close. The Judges on both sides of the Atlantic have implored the parents to reach an amicable solution. “Disputes over a child’s living arrangements are always difficult”, says Sian “both practically and emotionally, particularly when parents live in different countries. Despite heavy media coverage, disputes such as this are increasingly commonplace as the world grows smaller and many parents live overseas. Internal and international relocation cases are occurring frequently. “It may seem simplistic to suggest that parents should reach agreement. There are often many reasons that a couple may not be able to communicate. Cases such as these cry out for lawyers to be creative and find ways to work to a solution. There are many methods that can be used – mediation using specialist mediators or a collaborative approach avoiding entrenched litigation.
“As a parent myself I understand the intense feelings involved. In my view forcing a teenager to live with one parent against their wishes can cause resentment. The courts will take a child’s wishes and feelings very strongly into account if they are able to express them with a level of maturity and be reluctant to go against them. “It is important to bear in mind that the arrangements for Rocco were put in place when he was only 8 years old and he has now evolved into a young man who like most teenagers won’t be pushed around with Court orders. “It is essential for parents to take early advice from a family law specialist who is a member of Resolution and dedicated to resolving family disputes in a constructive and amicable way.” If you need advice on custody matters contact Sian Kenkre at The Wilkes Partnership skenkre@wilkes.co.uk or 0121 733 8000 / www.wilkes.co.uk
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Everyone welcome Bupa Dental Services are provided by Bupa Dental Services Limited. Registered office: Bupa House, 15-19 Bloomsbury Way, London WC1A 2BA. Registered number 479557
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Getting Kinky Bassist John Dalton played his first live gig with The Kinks on York Road in Kings Heath in 1966. Fifty years later he’s returning with The Kast Off Kinks to bring the band’s hits back to Birmingham. But while the two events may share a location, songs and musicians, it’ll be a very different experience for John. “Back then it happened so quickly,” he explains. “I met the band on Thursday, had Friday to learn the music and then played with them on Saturday night. I didn’t know any Kinks songs before that, but the set was only about thirty minutes and also included some rock and roll classics, so I just about got through it! Nowadays we normally play for around two hours and we know the numbers really well.”
“There’s also a lot more humour and entertainment in the show than in the 1960s.” While John might not have been familiar with the now-famous songs, he was no stranger to Birmingham. “My dad’s family were brought up in Balsall Heath and I used to spend my summer holidays there. We went to the Lickey Hills, Cannon Hill Park and saw the cricket at Edgbaston. It was really nice to be coming back to play.” John toured the world with the Kinks for seven years at the height of their fame and, after a long and successful musical career, joined The Kast Off Kinks in 1994, along
with other ex-Kinks Mick Avory, Ian Gibbons and Dave Clarke. “The four of us get on so well and we’re having such a good time. I still get as much of a kick out of playing ‘You Really Got Me’ as I did that first time in 1966.” John still pinches himself at how lucky he’s been. “I’ve played in some great bands throughout my career and worked with a really good bunch of fellow musicians. To still be playing at this age, enjoying myself so much and coming back to where it all started is unbelievable. I consider myself very privileged.” The Kast Off Kinks will be headlining at Kinks Heath Fest on 12th June. The festival will also include local musicians playing their favourite Kinks songs and a ‘Dedicated Follower of Fashion’ costume competition. by Alexandra Taylor
For more information go to: www.kingsheathwalkoffame.org.uk
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FREE divorces in Solihull Divorce is never easy.
We all know the prospect of divorce and separation can be a challenging time for you and your family, but with the right approach and support it doesn’t have to be difficult. Divorce offers many the chance for a fresh start and a happier outlook on life. So, it’s surprising that in a recent study (published in 2014), QualitySolicitors found 89% of those surveyed were worried about their general direction in life after their divorce - something they’ve termed the ‘Divoid’. The survey revealed that 2/3 of parents have concerns about the impact of their divorce on their children’s emotional future, 50% are worried about their living arrangements and 1/3 fears loneliness. Sam Kent from QualitySolicitors Davisons explains how it’s all a matter of making the right choices for you and your situation. 1.Keep things amicable As hard as it might be, don’t make life difficult for each other, now or after the divorce, all it will achieve is bitterness. Things will always be easier if you can get along. 2. Consider your new financial future This is the perfect time to re-asses your finances make an appointment with a financial advisor to review your current products, policies, pensions and savings. you might have joint arrangements
Offer E 1st Au nds gus 2016 t
with your ex which may need to be amended or changed for ones more suited to your new life. But whatever you do, don’t rashly cancel vital policies (like life or home insurance) and make sure your ex knows how important this is too. 3. Discover a new you Get out there and do the things you’ve always wanted to do. Don’t use your divorce as a reason to mope around. lnstead meet up with old friends, start exercising, enrol on a course or go on holiday with friends. Not only will you enjoy yourself, but you’re likely to make new friends in the process. 4. Think positive Vour divorce is bound to leave you feeling blue at times, it would be a worry if it didn’t, but don’t dwell on it. Yes, at times things are going to be difficult, but they will get better and you will get through it. Don’t forget, you’re not alone. 5. Take your time As tempting as it may be, rebound relationships rarely work at this fragile time. You might instead want to consider dating someone that isn’t necessarily for the long-term. This can be a good way of helping you move on and give your confidence a real boost.
If we deal with your matrimonial financial matters we will not charge you for advising about your divorce.
QualitySolicitors Davisons Changing the way you see lawyers. 0121 289 3599 www.qualitysolicitors.com/davisons Contact Sam Kent at our Solihull office on 0121 289 3599 or email s.kent@qsdavisons.com for free initial legal advice
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Advertising enquiries: 689 0432 | info@swanpublishing.org | www.swanpublishing.org
Heart of England bike ride
Heart of England Bike Ride – Sunday 17 July 2016 – Packwood NT House Knowle and Dorridge Lions hope you will join them for this year’s 11th Heart of England bike ride from Packwood House National Trust property around the beautiful Warwickshire countryside on Sunday 17 July. Gear up, get your friends and family together and take on the challenge of the 12, 18, 30 or 60 mile routes, and help raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. Organiser Lion Paul Wheatley says: “This ride seems to be quietly going from strength to strength with over 700 participants last year, raising over £19,000 for charity, all at the same time. After the bike ride, food will be available to purchase from the Lions BBQ and there is free entry to Packwood House and gardens. It’s a great day out for everyone!”
Discounted advance entry costs £10.00 Adults, £5 Children on the day an entry fee of £15.00 Adult and £7.50 Children applies. More details and register online via
www.knowleanddorridgelions.com/bikeride
Retired and looking for a friend?
The essence of FIRS is to provide the opportunity for the active retired (or anyone over 50 with some free weekday time) to have fun, enjoy life and most importantly to build long lasting friendship through doing FIRS activities.
FIRS - Friends in Retirement Solihull - is the biggest and finest local recreational club in Solihull aimed at the retired. It has over 1450 memberships and offers many recreational activities for members to get involved in.
The ice gets broken quickly when involved in a shared activity. Everybody is welcome, though there are no facilities for serious disability. Take a look through the website, there’s something for everyone.
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Is your eyesight letting you down? Here’s an event you can’t miss Queen Alexandra College
As we get older we may need more help with our eyesight than our optician can provide. If this sounds familiar, you need to visit SIGHT VILLAGE, an exhibition of the latest products and services for people experiencing failing eye sight. SIGHT VILLAGE exhibitors have all the products, services, technology and support you’ll need to see, read and work more easily - and every event is completely free to visit!
BIRMINGHAM 19th & 20th JULY 2016 19th 10.00am - 4.00pm 20th 10.00am - 3.00pm
For more information visit: www.qacsightvillage.org.uk Or call the organiser, Queen Alexandra College on: 0121
428 5041 E-mail: sv@qac.ac.uk HEADLINE SPONSORS
SPONSORS
VENUE: New Bingley Hall, Hockley Circus, B18 5PP ADMISSION FREE Pre-registration recommended www.qacsightvillage.org.uk or call 0121 428 5041
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An opportunity to see the UK's leading providers of products and services all under one roof.
QAC Sight Village exhibitions are organised by Queen Alexandra College Birmingham. A National College for People with Disabilities
Advertising enquiries: 689 0432 | info@swanpublishing.org | www.swanpublishing.org
Herbalist
Jenny Jones
Nettles...
they’re not all that bad really To make a soup you will need: A large saucepan of nettle tops 3 tbsp butter 3 tbsp plain flour 1 ltr vegetable stock 150ml cream Plenty of salt and pepper
Do you feel a little jaded after spending the winter indoors wrapped up against the cold? Now is the time to think about boosting your energy. But don’t visit your pharmacy – go into your garden instead. We are going to pick some nettles! Nettles were a very important crop in the past. They were not only used as a medicine, they were also made into material, rope and used for dying (they make a lovely yellow/ green dye). They contain useful amounts of iron and calcium and at this time of year nettles are young and tender and can be used to make a restorative tea and a lovely soup.
Method Wearing long rubber gloves, collect nettle tops and, if necessary wash and pick through them. You will need a good amount as they wilt down, very much like spinach. Cook the rinsed nettles without adding any more water until thoroughly softened, (as soon as you heat the nettles the sting disappears). Drain off all liquid thoroughly and add this to your stock. Make a roux by melting the butter in a saucepan and slowly adding in the flour. Keep stirring over a low heat for 2 minutes
and then begin to slowly add the stock mixture. Put the roux and nettles in a liquidizer and blitz until smooth. Season to taste. To make nettle tea you will need: Fill your cup with nettle tops having bruised them by squeezing them first. Then pour on boiling water and leave to steep until you have a good colour. Sweeten to taste if that’s your choice – but no milk please! Two cups a day will give you a good amount of iron and calcium. Jenny Jones is a retired fellow of The National Institute of Medical Herbalists. After practicing for 30 years she become a Trustee of the Herb Society and helped train future herbalists as a tutor at the University of Central Lancashire. Jenny has agreed to write more of her wonderful articles for our magazine.
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What’s on guide A snapshot of things to do around Knowle & Dorridge in June & July.
Markets, Fairs & Festivals Solihull Carnival Celebrate the carnival with the Lions. Free entry – charity donations welcome. Where: Tudor Grange Park When: 11 Jun, 12.00pm to 5.00pm (Funfair from 9 June) Info: solihulllionsclub.org.uk
Birmingham and Solihull Jazz & Blues Festival With bands and musicians from the UK, Czech Republic, France, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Holland, Canada, India, Hungary and the USA. Where: 60 venues including Mell Square When: 15 - 24 July Info: www.visitbirmingham.com
Fine & Local Food Fayre Sample the best of locally sourced food & produce Where: Mell Square, High Street & Mill Lane When: 18 Jun & 16 Jul Info: skettsfarmersmarkets.co.uk
Vintage & Antiques Fair Clothes, Accessories, jewellery, homewares vinyl and glass. Where: Cranmore Park Exhibition Centre, Shirley When: 9 Jul, 10am-4pm Info: www.b2bevents.info
Farmers Market A tempting range of local produce sourced from within a 30 mile radius of Solihull. Where: High Street and Mill Lane, Solihull, B91 0NA When: First Friday every month Info: www.skettsfarmersmarkets. co.uk
Charity Events
Midsummer Craft Market Discover the work of local artists and jewellery designers, as well as artefacts from overseas. Where: High Street, Solihull When: 8 & 9 Jul 9.00am-5.00pm Info: solihull/gov.uk/events Majestic Jazz Celebrate the Queen’s official birthday with a concert in the park. Refreshments and homemade cakes at Elmdon Church, or take a picnic. If wet weather the concert will be in the church. Where: Elmdon Park When: 12 Jun, 2.00pm-4.15pm Info: solihull.gov.uk/events
Solihull Mind’s Pop Up Shop Home and garden gifts sale in aid of charity Where: Solihull Mind’s horticulture site in Knowle, down the bridle path opposite Purnells way, off Station Road When: 2, 9, 16, 23 Jul Info: contact@solihullmind.org. uk. Sponsored Walk The annual sponsored walk in aid of National Osteoporosis Society. Baroness Burt of Solihull will start the walk. Where: Shirley Park When: 16 Jun Info: www.nos.org.uk/solihull
Clubs & Gatherings Knit and Natter Knitting items for premature babies to be sent to Malawi.
Experiencing knitters and beginners welcome. Where: St Stephen’s Church Centre, Coppice Road When: Meeting weekly Info: patrical57@hotmail.com
Live Entertainment Summer Ball The Old Silhillian’s Association Summer Ball. Open to all. Dancing to a live band with 4-course dinner. Where: Silhillians Sports Club, Warwick Road, B93 When: 2 Jul, 7.30pm Info: www.ball@silhillians.net / 01564 777680 The Tempest Outdoor performance of one of Shakespeare’s best loved plays by Heartbreak Productions. Where: Brueton Park, B91 3HA When: 19 Jul Info: thecoretheatresolihull. co.uk Pedal Car Racing Competative fast and furious pedal car racing. Where: Tudor Grange Park, B91 3LU When: 24 Jul, 10.30am-5pm Info: pedalcarracing.info/solihull Glyndebourne Opera: Il Barbiere Di Siviglia Rossini’s classic comedy, conducted by Enrique Mazzola. Where: Cineworld, Touchwood When: 21 Jun Info: www.cineworld.co.uk/cinemas/solihull
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Where to eat
A guide to the best places to eat in and around Solihull
The Agrabad Balti Restaurant 884 Old Lode Lane Solihull, B92 8LW Tel: 0121 743 7883
The Little Owl British Pub Food Bickenhill Parkway Solihull, B40 1QA Tel: 0121 781 0331
The Punchbowl Pub Food Mill Lanwe Lapworth, B94 6HR Tel: 01564 784 564
Beeches Bar & Grill Modern Brasserie Marsh Lane Solihull, B92 0AH Tel: 01675 422 277
The Malt Shovel Gastro Pub Barston Lane Solihull, B91 3DX Tel: 01675 443 223
The Red House Pub Food & Carvery Hermitage Rd Solihull, B91 2LP Tel: 0121 711 8856
The Beech House Steakhouse 727 Warwick Road Solihull, B91 3DA Tel: 0121 272 7730
Met Bar & Kitchen Modern European 680-684 Warwick Rd Solihull, B91 3DX Tel: 0121 659 8062
Wagamama Japanese Touchwood Solihull, B91 3GS Tel: 0121 711 7075
The Farm Inn Gastro Pub Farmhouse Way Solihull, B90 4EH Tel: 0121 711 7273
Missoula Pub Food 140 High St Sollihull B91 3SX Tel: 0121 705 7422
The White Lion French & British Hampton-in-Arden Solihull, B92 0AA Tel: 01564 442833
The Finest Catch Fish & Chips 1097 Stratford Road Shirley, B90 4EB Tel: 0121 745 1755
Orange Tree Gastro Pub Warwick Rd Solihull, B93 0BN Tel: 01564 785364
Zengz Asian Vegetarian Old Lode Lane B92 8JE Tel: 0121 722 2099
Happy Heart Cafe Organic 26 Richmond Road, Olton, B92 7RP Tel: 0121 706 8674
Pavarotti Italian 2 Hobs Moat Rd Solihull, B92 8JN Tel: 0121 743 3222
Zizi Italian 10 Poplar Rd Solihull, B91 3AB 0121 704 5030
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There is a co-working space near you “Where can I work to start my business?” This is the question that many newly self-employed people ask. Instead of struggling at home, coffee shops or libraries, have you ever thought about coworking? It’s a shared working environment and a community of like minded people who also want to network, share knowledge and build relationships. Birmingham’s first coworking space is the near you, it’s called The Moseley Exchange and is located in the heart of Moseley Village in a refurbished telephone exchange. Here, you can find a pleasant working environment with support services, access to meeting rooms, offices and flexible membership options - there’s more detail at www.moseleyexchange.com; special rates are available for students and there is discounted room hire for charities. The Moseley Exchange currently host a range of small businesses owners who appreciate finding a space where they can focus on growing their business whilst
juggling all the other demands in their lives. They all enjoy working in Moseley since it offers a range of independent cafés, pubs, restaurants, amazing parks, all on the door step.
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The Moseley Exchange is a social enterprise operated by Moseley Community Development Trust, any surplus goes back in to supporting Trust’s community projects such as Exchange Time – Moseley’s time-bank.
Moseley Exchange tel 0121 449 8585 or email info@moseleyexchange.com
Health tips from Dr Louise
Strokes are very common – someone in the UK has a stroke every three and a half minutes. Although the symptoms come on very quickly the effects can be devastating and affect a person forever.
Thankfully the treatment has changed dramatically since I was a medical student; now the outlook for people who have had a stroke is so much better than it used to be. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly cut off. The most common cause is from a clot in one of the blood vessels that supply the brain. This means that the cells in that part of the brain become damaged or die. With some people the blood supply is cut off for a short period of time but then returns, which leads to a transient ischaemic attack (or TIA) rather than a full stroke occurring. The most effective treatment for a stroke is one which thins the blood. For this to be effective it needs to happen soon after any symptoms of a stroke develop. There is a simple checklist which is easy to use about the symptoms of either a stroke or TIA. These spell the word “FAST” and are:
F - Facial weakness. Can the person smile?
Has their mouth or eye drooped?
A
- Arm weakness. Can the person raise both arms?
S
- Speech disturbance. Can the person speak clearly? Can they understand what you say?
T - Time to call 999/111.
Photography by www.s
evenstarphotography.
co.uk
If a person is suspected of having a stroke, then they will have a CT scan of their brain as soon as possible in hospital. If a stroke is confirmed, then treatment may be given to dissolve the clot causing the stroke which can be really effective and reduces the chance of long term disability. If you have high blood pressure, smoke, drink too much alcohol, are overweight, have diabetes, know your cholesterol is high - you are at serious risk of having a stroke. You should have regular reviews with your doctor if you are in one of these categories - it may save your life. Written by Dr Louise
Dr Louise R Newson is a part -time GP in Solihull and has written many medical books including training courses and knowledge updates for GPs. Additionally she is an editor of and writer for many medical publications and has just been awarded the FRCGP fellowship in recognition of a significant contribution to medicine in general and general practice in particular.
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Summer School Activity Weeks 2016
King Edward VI Five Ways School
Available weeks:
Sports and Adventure
Investigative Science
Music Theatre Showcase Week Problem Solving, Aptitude and Leadership
Limited Places Weekdays 9.00am - 3.30pm
(extended hours 8.15am- 5.30pm available each day)
Only ÂŁ110 per child per week (extended day = ÂŁ5 per day) To book a place or for more information email kefwcommunity@kefw.org
in years 4,5,6 and 7 For girls and boys
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Advertising enquiries: 689 0432 | info@swanpublishing.org | www.swanpublishing.org
Local private tutors Helen Mills
Flute & Intensive grade 5 Theory BMus; GBSM Hons; ABSM
Over 30 years flute teaching experience. All abilities, ages & levels taught. Excellent results record. ALSO Aural Training Memebr of ISM Blenheim Road, Moseley Tel: 0121 449 2135
ncer Kerry Spe istory and 11+
English, H ish) Tutor (Maths & Englan d levels taught.
e All abilities ages in your own hom Lessons provided d weekends. an during the week , lts su re t an illi Br 1 055 220 Call or text: 0789
Vintage Solihull
Knowle Parochial School
Jennifer Guillard
M ABSM
Lic.mus (France) L.Mus.TCL ARC
Piano Tutor
Lessons in your own home. From beginner to diploma level Theory and practical Whitland Drive, Kings Heath Tel: 0121 603 4322
David Parman
Solihull Maths Revisiontuition and A specialist provider of maths revision courses www.solihullmathsrevision.co.uk Tel: 07836 672187
If you are a local tutor and would like your details printed here email: info@swanpublish please ing.org Built in 1871, after the 1870 Education Act, at the cost of ÂŁ508 3s 9d. and confirmed as a Parochial School only after urgent correspondence with the Charity Commissioners. Originally intended for 200 children, it was soon enlarged to take 300 pupils. In the 1970s after much heart-searching over the future of the old building, which was deteriorating rapidly, having lain empty and redundant since 1966 it was eventually adapted for British Legion sheltered housing in the early 1980s and named Paterson Court after Colonel Paterson, a past chairman of the Knowle Branch. Most of the frontage was retained, with the centre section replaced by an arch leading to modern flatlets at the rear.
The Victorian school in Kenilworth Road occupies the site of an earlier school erected in the 1840s on land given by the Lord of the Manor.
Go to website for extended version of this article. Information provided by Mrs Elaine Warner, chairman of Knowle Local History Society. www.knowlehistory.org.uk
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Pop-up Shop!
to raise funds for local charity Solihull Mind’s horticulture project We will be selling lovely gifts for your home and garden, including planted pots and hanging baskets using plants grown at the project, locally produced craft items. and homemade cakes and cream teas.
www.krean.co.uk
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11am-3-30pm, July 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd at our project site which is off Station Road in Knowle - past Arden School, opposite Purnells Way, look out for the signs! Reg. charity no. 516058
Advertising enquiries: 689 0432 | info@swanpublishing.org | www.swanpublishing.org
Human of Solihull
Annette Hulme - Founder of Solihull mums and dads Our special person this issue has changed people’s lives in this Borough. It’s a challenge being a parent and thanks to Annette, the founder of a community Facebook page called Solihull Mums & Dad’s - the task of child-raising here is easier. At the moment there are 3,492 Facebook members on her site with more asking to join daily. Posts range from those seeking recommendations for a party venue and face painter - to finding a cranial osteopath for a newborn. There are plenty of first hand suggestions and opinions for everything relevant to parenting, from the other members. But it’s not a commercial venture so you won’t find companies advertising themselves or people pushing services and goods. If they try to post, they’re quickly removed. Annette grew up in Hampton in Arden and went to the George Fentham Primary School. Then onto the Arden School in Knowle and University, graduating with a degree in Marketing. She is now the Marketing Manager for London Midland train company - a job she’s held since 2004. When pregnant with her first son 5 years ago and attending post-natal classes, many
of the other expectant mums in the group wanted to stay in touch and continue to meet every week. So a group of about 10 formed. Eventually some returned to work and Annette in order to keep the friendship group going, set up a Facebook page called simply ‘Solihull Mums & Dads’. And it grew through personal invites, ideas for days out and word of mouth. New mums have come into the area, found advice on schools, toddler groups etc and friends have been made. Currently with a 6 week old baby as well as her lively 5-yr-old son and a husband doing shifts, Annette has plenty to cope with so shares the administration of the Facebook page with friends Danielle Collinson and Stacey Lintern. There are thousands of Silhillians who will want to join in to say an immense Thank You of gratitude to Annette for her modern day gift that enhances this community. Written by Julia Parsons
www.facebook.com/groups and search for ‘Solihull Mums & Dads’
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more local customers? Then your advert should be
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Clubs & Societies
Clubs & Societies
Our community is rich and diverse and there is something for everyone, whatever your interests may be. St Alphege Solihull Rotary Club www.rotarystalphege.org.uk
Solihull Central University of the 3rd Age sol.centralu3a@gmail.com
Arden Bridge Club 0121 745 1389 www.bridgewebs.com/arden
Solihull Canoe Club 08431 895 272
Arden Tennis, Squash, Gym and Social Club 0121 704 9451 www.solihullarden.co.uk
Solihull Chandos Choir www.solihullchandoschoir.org
Blossomfield Players Drama Group 0121 705 7432 www.blossomfieldclub.co.uk
Cycle Solihull www.cyclesolihul.org.uk
Silhill Bridge Club 01564 782 232 www.bridgewebs.com/silhill
Solihull Cycling Club secretary@solihullcc.org.uk
Silhill Morris Dancers 01564 778 270 www.silhillmorris.weebly.com
Solihull Embroiderers Solihullembroiderersguild.blogspot.co.uk
Solihull (Historic) Athletics Club www.solihullathletics.co.uk
Solihull & District Orchid Society 01295 788 159 LaeliaM@aol.com
Solihull Archaeological Group 0121 783 8517 www.siges.google.com/sige/ solihullarcaeology
Solihull & District Soroptomist International Club sisolihull@yahoo.co.uk www.sisolihull.org.uk
Solihull Blossomfield Townswomen’s Guild 0121 705 7226
Solihull Down syndrome Support Group lizwilliams193@hotmail.co.uk
Catherine de Barnes Society of Arts patricia.ritchie@mypostoffice.co.uk
Solihull Flower Club www.southmidlandsnafas.org/solihull
Solihull & Shirley Bridge Bereavement Support Group 0121 733 1038 enquiries@thebridgeshirley. com
Solihull Indoor Bowls Club 0121 709 2233 www.solihullindoorbowlsclub. co.uk
Solihull & Shirley Brass Band www.shirleyband.co.uk Solihull Breast Friends (breast cancer support) www.breastfriendssolihull.org.uk Solihull Central Badminton Club 01564 777 495 stevearms@gmail.com
Solihull Karate & Self Defence Club www.TheEKO.eu Solihull Ladies Probus 0121 705 3118 mollywindle42@me.com If you know of a club or group that is not listed here but should be, please get in touch to let us know: juliaparsons@swanpublishing. org
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Index Page
Local Business Directory
Support your local community = support your local economy + watch our neighbourhood thrive! Awards Birmingham Awards
12
Builders’ Merchants EH Smith
Property Maintenance All Aspects Property Maintenance
26
Restaurant Guide
21
3
Restaurants Sweet Chillies
20
Charity Solihull Mind
26
Roofing Adam Askey
3
Children’s Activities Ultimate Activity Camps King Edward Five Ways
24 24
Sheltered Housing Rayner House & Yew Trees
6
Clubs & Societies
29
Building and Roofing Adam Askey
Conservatories & Orangeries Harborne Sash 32
8
Smart TV Services IT Visual
20
Solicitors The Wilkes Partnership Quality Solicitors Davidsons
9 14
Driveways Central Driveways
6
Estate Agents Hunters Estates
Specialist FE College Queen Alexandra College
16
2
Tree Surgeons Betel UK Oakwood Treecare
10 20
Tutor Listing
25
Windows & Doors Harborne Sash
32
Working From Home Opportunities for you
26
Fireplace Showroom MD Services
10
Gardening Services Betel UK Oakwood Treecare
10 20
Handyman Blue
6
Healthcare Bupa Health & Dental Centre 11 Painting & Decorating Krean Property Maintenance
Wooden & Laminate Flooring Value Floors 18
26
Disclaimer - All advertisements delivered by My Solihull Central are published in good faith. We do not accept responsibility for the accuracy of such advertisements, nor is any kind of warrenty or endorsment expressed or implied by such publication. We specifically disclaim all and any liability to advertisers, readers and users of any kind, for loss or damage of any nature whatsoever and however arising, whether due to inaccuracy, error, omission or any other cause and whether on the part of My Solihull Central, our agents or any other person.
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Advertising enquiries: 689 0432 | info@swanpublishing.org | www.swanpublishing.org
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