December 2015 - My Solihull, Knowle & Dorridge by The MY Magazines

DEC 2015/ JAN 2016 PUBLIS

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Don Maclean MBE a star in our midst

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Christmas through teen eyes: The festive perspective of a Solihull 17 year-old

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photograph by www.sevenstarphotography.co.uk

23 Mark Bowen: Is your child a budding footie star?

19 Arden to Africa: eight sixth-form students take on a life changing challenge

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Hello Neighbours Welcome to this festive season issue. The charming Don Maclean MBE is a familiar face to many and a Silhillian to be very proud of. Solihull has many fellowship clubs that welcome new members. We have highlighted some of the work they do nationally and internationally and the advantages of joining one. There are articles written by young people. Two highlight worthwhile charitable endeavours and a teenager’s experience of his family Christmas. Our Human of Solihull is familiar with many Silhilians when picking up their fish ‘n’ chips. Wishing a Very Happy New Year to our readers from the Swan Publishing team. Copies of the magazine can be found on the Information desk in Touchwood, The Manor Tearooms, Solihull High St, Ideal Dry Cleaners in Dorridge and Eclipse Dry Cleaners in Olton. Till the next issue - take care.

COVER STORY: Don Maclean MBE a star in our midst 5

Christmas through a teenager’s eyes

Exercise that Christmas lunch away

Vintage Solihull

Is your spouse misbehaving?

A call a day keeps the doctor away

Love to take pictures?

Solihull remembers

New director at Solihull hospital

From Arden to Africa

Is your child a budding footie star? 23 The great £10,000 Finesse Windows giveaway

Solihull pensioners convention

Jigsaw therapy

www.facebook.com/ swanpublishing

Struggling with drug addiction? Help is out there

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Human of Solihull - Stavros Kiriakou the chipper chipper 32

Julia Parsons

07831 395029 juliaparsons@swanpublishing.org www.swanpublishing.org

For advertising rates and sizes see page 39 Also advertise in our sister magazines My Moseley & Kings Heath and My Harborne & Edgbaston. THE TEAM: Editor Photography

Julia Parsons Seven Star Photography

Published by Swan Publishing Ltd: 0121 689 0432 Designed by Digital Glue: 0121 399 0065 Printed by Newman Thomson: 01444 480 700

In this issue

Charitable clubs of Solihull unravelled

Regulars

What’s on Where to eat Competition page Local tutors Local clubs and societies Local business directory

11 25 29 36 37 38

Don Maclean MBE a star in our midst With 40 years in the business and 1200 interviews with some extraordinary people to look back on - our Solihull celebrity is special. He’s received an MBE from The Queen, a silver Heart from The Variety Club, an Honorary Fellowship from Rotary International, an Honorary Degree from Birmingham University, and a Papal Knighthood from The Vatican awarded personally by The Pope. He has a private pilot’s licence and is a WW1 aviation enthusiast. Don presented a national show on BBC Radio 2 ‘Good-morning Britain’, for 16 years every Sunday from 7- 9am. During this time he interviewed worldwide religious and political leaders as well as many major celebrities from the entertainment world. One of these he recalls purely because she was such a unique eccentric personality - the late Dame Barbara Cartland. Don recalls that, on a previous interview for BBC Radio 4 she’d been asked by the presenter, “Dame Barbara, do you think the class system in England has broken down?” to which she responded without missing a beat … “Well of course it has. Otherwise someone like me wouldn’t be talking to someone like you”. At 97 years old, she was still outrageous and feisty.

Don lives in Solihull with his wife Toni and his children have enjoyed going to school here.

As a child Don remembers being taken to the pantomime at The Alexandra Theatre annually, as a Christmas treat. Children would always be invited to come up and join the cast on the stage and he never failed to be one of the first up there. He simply loved it and was often called a “poppyshow” by his family.

Currently on tour, starring with his friend the comedian Malcolm Stent in a successful play with music they’ve written about two pals from Birmingham going to fight in WW1 called Brummegem Pals, he’s doing what he loves…entertaining.

There was never a doubt that he was headed for a performance career. Making people laugh and feel happy was his pleasure too. Sometimes he was treated to a show at The Hippodrome - he clearly remembers watching Laurel & Hardy, Roy Rogers & Trigger (yes, the horse came on the stage), Peter Brough & Archie Andrews.

He works constantly either on cruises, as a successful and entertaining after dinner speaker or in the theatre.

For further details on Don Maclean’s tour dates go to: www.donmaclean.bravehost.com or www.mouthpieceproductions.net. An extended version of this article is available on www.swanpublishing.org

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Christmas through a teenager’s eyes (from a Solihull 17 year-old) Through most of the year there are no more than five people in our home, but then December creeps up on us and Christmas looms. As the hordes of family members circle we find ourselves drowning not only in tinsel and turkey but tension, hysteria and turmoil when we realise at the eleventh hour that almost nothing has been done. With this comes that particularly frantic rush only felt in the preliminaries to the festive period when you realise there are presents to buy for brothers, sisters, mother, father, grandparents, godparents, friends, teachers and innumerable cousins and in-laws. After lengthy, careful, considered reflection, all my gift vouchers are bought, whilst everybody else struggles with sufficient wrapping paper to quite literally ‘deck the halls’.

On the big day, after present opening and a huge meal, we settle down in front of the television for some “quality” entertainment which notably consists of that episode of the Royle Family interrupted by the head of another Royal Family and her always thought provoking speech, and once the remote control settles into Dad’s hand, is punctuated by the latest offering of contrived sentimentality courtesy of John Lewis PLC.

Later, with the tree finally lit and decorated, in a frankly bizarre role reversal, my brothers and I (aged 17,16 and 12), are ushered hastily to bed so presents can come out of hiding to be furtively wrapped by our over-excited parents who, for reasons best known to themselves, persist in the deceit that some overweight hippy will sneak into the house and bestow assorted items of the latest technology upon us.

I hope you will not be fooled by my apparent cynicism. I enjoy Christmas at home just like everybody else and honestly … wouldn’t change it for the world. by Aodhan Lynch

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Exercise that Christmas lunch away Baddesley Clinton festive walk is Knowle and Dorridge Lion’s charity event that brings all the right spirit to the season. Dave Carter, the energy behind this great annual festive tradition said: “It seems the idea of getting out of the house and from behind the TV and walking off the Christmas pud is very attractive. After the walk there is mulled wine and hot mince pies, and free entry to Baddesley Clinton National Trust House and Gardens.” “Last year with fine weather we passed a landmark with 1800 walkers donating over £10,000 (entry is FREE) on the day. I don’t know how much the walks

have raised since we began 24 years ago – well over £100,000 by now.”

Help raise funds for Children’s Liver Disease Foundation, Solihull Bereavement Counselling Service, Lily Mae Foundation and local causes by making a donation. To join the walk on Monday 28 Dec go to www.knowle anddorridgelions.com/walk.

Vintage Solihull Tea time….Ooops!

Photograph by John Arnold

Taken in 1979 This was the result of an explosion caused when an employee from contractors working on a gas main in the High Street, lit a small burner to boil up the kettle to make tea … most of the damage was done to The Mason’s Arms in the ensuing explosion.

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What's on Markets

A snapshot of what’s on around Solihull, Knowle & Dorridge in December & January

Let’s Skate Solihull

Get your skates on at Solihull Farmers’ Solihull’s first ever outdoor Market Local fresh fruit and veg ice rink. Where: Solihull High St Where: Mell Square When: The first Friday When: 13 Nov - 3 Jan of every month, 9am-4pm Info: www.letsskate Info: www.localfoods.org solihull.co.uk

Bentley Heath Country Market Homemade, Homegrown, Handcrafted. Where: Bentley Heath Village Hall When: Every Friday 9.30am-11.30am Info: www.bhcountry market.com

Solihull’s Fine Food & Drink Market A selection of fine wines, cheeses, cakes, recipe books and even gluten free goodies. Where: Solihull High Street When: 28 Nov, 5, 12 & 19 Dec Info: www.skettsfarmers markets.co.uk

Festivities I’ve Seen Santa show A new short show for 3 - 7 year olds (and of course, their grown-ups!). Full of the joy of Christmas, with foot-tapping tunes by Frank Goodhind, and gorgeous puppets by Lisa Kelly. Where: Solihull Arts Complex Studio. When: 19 - 24 Dec Info: www.solihullarts complex.co.uk

Festive Fun Nature walk and Christmas craft activity. Enjoy a drink and a biscuit too! Suitable for all ages. Where: The Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park When: Every Wednesday & Friday from 1 - 22 Dec Info: 0121 704 0768

Carols in the Park

Ring Forth Ye Bells The Strolling Players based in Knowle present “Ring Forth Ye Bells” a concert for Christmas in support of Midlands Air Ambulance. Where: Knowle Village Hall When: 12 Dec, 7.30pm Info: 01564 77 2071

NYE party New Year’s Eve for all the family! Where: The Limes Country Lodge When: 31 Dec Info: 01564 703 444

Memorial Days

Join choirs and a brass brand Holocaust Memorial for seasonal good cheer. Day Where: Brueton Park With the Mayor of Solihull, When: 6 Dec Alex Murray, Chief Info: www.solihull.gov.uk Superintendent of Solihull Police, Dr Martin Stern, Christmas at Holocaust Survivor, Rabbi Brueton Park Yehuda Pink and readings Father Christmas is making from the children of ctc a special appearance in the Kingshurst Academy. park. Visit him in his grotto Where: Solihull Arts to receive a small gift! There Complex Studio is a massive treasure trail, and When: 27 Jan other entertainment including a Info: www.solihullarts craft activity. There will also be complex.co.uk 0121 704 carols in the park from 1pm. 6962 Where: Brueton Park & the Parkridge Centre When: 6 Dec, 11am - 3pm Info: 0121 704 8000

Live performances Ali Baba and the Four Tea Thieves A pantomime with a difference, brought to you by Harlequinade. A wonderful story about forces of good and evil, rich and poor. This performance is suitable for all ages, and is in aid of Fast Aid. Where: Dorridge Methodist Church When: 30 & 31 Jan, more dates to come in Feb. Info: 01564 775 069

Barron Knights The Barron Knights are probably the most entertaining group to come out of the 60s and 70s. Where: Solihull Arts Complex When: 28 Jan Info: www.solihullarts complex.co.uk 0121 704 6962

Social hobbies Coffee Morning June Williams bakes cakes and serves tea and coffee for the elderly and people on their own. Where: Knowle Village Hall When: Every Friday Info: keith84. williams@talktalk.net

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Is your spouse mis-behaving? And do you believe you should be compensated in your financial settlement? If this is true of you then our local divorce specialist Clare Fletcher from The Wilkes Partnership has some words of advice. According to Clare, while the divorce procedure often blames the other spouse for the breakdown of the marriage, this rarely affects the financial outcome and she advises that families survive divorce better if they can agree on the financial settlement instead of battling it out. “I frequently have clients who want to be compensated for their ex-partner’s infidelity or behaviour during the marriage but it is only in extremely rare cases that misconduct will be taken into account by the court when sharing the assets of the marriage.” said Clare. There are however two types of bad behaviour which the court will consider and adjust the settlement accordingly in two distinct ways. The first is “matrimonial misconduct” - bad conduct during the marriage. “Generally speaking”, explains Clare, “who divorces whom has no bearing on the final financial outcome. While a party in a divorce will be named as being at fault for the marital breakdown, they will not be punished because of it except in highly exceptional circumstance. “However if the court considers the conduct to be so gross and evil that it warrants punishment, a financial penalty taken from the badly behaving spouse’s share of the assets may be awarded to the ‘hurt’ party. Such conduct would include things like attempted murder but not necessarily domestic abuse.” The second type of conduct which may result in a financial penalty is “litigation misconduct”. This includes failing to attend hearings, missing

Clare Fletcher, The Wilkes Partnership

deadlines or failing to do something ordered by the court without reasonable cause. Such behaviour is addressed by the miscreant being ordered to pay the other party’s costs. As Clare points out “Such costs orders, as they are known, can prove a good deterrent to prevent a repeat of such behaviour.” The Wilkes Partnership takes a conciliatory approach in divorce matters to help minimise the stress to the divorcing couple and their children.

If you are interested in finding out more you can arrange a initial consultation at a reduced flat rate fee with Clare Fletcher at The Wilkes Partnership by calling 0121 733 8000.

A call a day keeps the doctor away A Birmingham based Social Enterprise is helping to reduce loneliness for single elderly folk in the West Midlands. Residents of Solihull are currently taking advantage of a daily telephone befriending service called Home To Home Calls which enhances mental wellbeing with a physical benefit as well. Loneliness is known to be as harmful as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and has been linked to increased rates of heart disease and Dementia. We might know what it feels like to be lonely, but it can be hard for us to understand that a million older UK residents can regularly go for a whole month without speaking to anyone. A shocking statistic. Many only have radio and TV for company. Jayde Lewis founded Home to Home Calls creating a befriending service that works by carefully matching and assigning every user with their own befriender who provides friendly conversation and companionship on a regular basis over a long period of time. The idea is not new, but it is unique in the way that it encourages positive healthy friendships to develop with the same guaranteed befriender at a pre-agreed time every day. The vital service provides a link to

the outside world and often acts as a gateway for other services and valuable support. A conversation can range from a simple welfare check and medication reminder, to a discussion about their day, the weather or events in the news. Jayde comments that â&#x20AC;&#x153;As we continually move into a digital society we forget that people needâ&#x20AC;Ś people! With friendships at the heart of what we do, I always wanted to create a platform that allowed folk to share laughter, tears or vent feelings with a trusted person. I am proud to say that we are currently doing that.â&#x20AC;?

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Retirement living at its best Lime Tree Village is one of the region’s longest established age-exclusive developments, tucked away in mature parkland close to Dunchurch, near Rugby. Resident-exclusive facilities include restaurant, bar, library, function room, snooker room and outdoor croquet/ putting lawn and boules area. A further phase of independent living properties is currently being built – The Polo Field – providing new build options too.

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Love to take pictures?

A jolly festive family... photo by Barbara Cheshire

Knowle Camera Club was formed over fifty years ago, and always welcomes new members. They are a small but active club with a varied programme including internal competitions, presentations by well known local photographers and training evenings. All standards are welcome. The group is friendly and keen to help new members improve their photography or learn from them.

Meetings are once a fortnight at Dorridge Methodist Church on a Thursday evening. The first two meetings are free. For more information contact Tony Albutt on 01564 782 175 www.knowlecameraclub.co.uk

Solihull remembers On January 27 each year, the United Nations (UN) remembers The Holocaust that affected many people of Jewish origin during World War II. This day is in memory of the many victims of the Holocaust and also commemorates when the Soviet troops liberated the Nazi concentration and death camp AuschwitzBirkenau in Poland on January 27, 1945. Through remembering these events, it is hoped that people will not forget the horror of The Holocaust with the hope that genocides will never happen again. Solihull Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration takes place at 11am in the Solihull Library Studio. A concentration camp

survivor is travelling from far to speak and school children from CTC Kingshurst Academy will read out pieces theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve written. It is a moving and memorable occasion officiated by Rabbi Yehuda Pink from the Solihull Hebrew Congregation with many senior people from Solihull Council attending. Everyone is welcome to attend this significant occasion.

For details go to: www.solihullshul.org or www.solihullartscomplex.co.uk

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New Director takes reins at Solihull hospital Solihull’s largest private hospital Spire Parkway has appointed Tony Yates as its new hospital director. With almost 25 years’ experience in private healthcare, Mr Yates said he was thrilled with his new role and looked forward to many ‘challenges and changes’ as he takes Spire Parkway into its next stage of development following an £8million investment. One of his first tasks after taking the reins at the hospital on Damson Parkway, Solihull, was to oversee the unveiling of a state-of-art endoscopy suite. This will soon be followed by the opening of a purpose-built cancer centre as well as a new operating theatre. He said: “It is a very exciting time for the hospital. The £8m investment is a massive undertaking but we are sure it will mean a major boost to healthcare services in the region.”

Tony Yates, new Hospital Director at Spire Parkway

From Arden to Africa Eight sixth-form students from Arden School left their comfortable, safe homes for a memorable adventure teaching in a not-so-safeand-comfortable village in Africa. Martha Sanders said: “We left in July for South Africa for one month, to teach in a rural school. Once we passed selection for this fantastic trip the previous November we began planning and fundraising. We packed supermarket bags, ran the Knowle Fun Run, delivered leaflets and more, to provide money to get there and leave a legacy behind. The hard work brought us together into a close knit group. “Eventually, two plane journeys and a lengthy car ride later we arrived at Spion Kop Lodge, our base. Lynette and Raymond Heron were our hosts and introduction to Schitsdrift School. We were treated to magnificent mountain scenery and many spectacular sunsets. And we went on a safari. “Having suffered a culture shock on our first day from the disorganisation at the school - it was not unusual to find classes without teachers - it was a case of being thrown into the deep end… we were handed a textbook, allocated a class and left to cope. Challenging at first, we quickly grew in confidence and the children began engaging with us.

everyone loved but playing Tig usually turned into ten of them chasing one of us, screaming “tig” at the top of their lungs. “As our trip came to a close we worked hard to leave behind as much as possible for the children. We finished organising the library, completed building the chicken coop and saw the erection of a hugely popular jungle gym which had been paid for by funds raised by Arden school. “The last few days were emotional; we became very attached to our classes and there were many tearful moments as we waved goodbye to them for the final time. “We are grateful to everyone who supported us. It was a humbling, challenging and rewarding experience that none of us will ever forget.”

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Is your child a budding footie star? We asked Mark Bowen of Stoke City some key questions. Do you have any specific advice for young players in their teens who are looking to play at the highest level one day? A: My advice would be – Never give up, if you truly believe then you have the ability to make it. But, BE realistic and BE dedicated. What can they do to get noticed? A: If they truly have decent ability then they WILL get noticed, at first by their coach and then by outsiders – most games of a decent level get covered by professional scouts. No players go ‘under the radar’ these days. Which was the more special moment for you as a player? Getting your first international Cap for Wales, or scoring the winning goal for Norwich against Bayern Munich in the 1993 UEFA cup Second Round Tie in Munich? A: The most special moment was playing for Wales! Being a very proud Welshman, it was what I had dreamed about from a young age. I made my debut v Canada when I was 20 yrs old. What is your favourite part about coaching? A: My favourite and most enjoyable part of coaching is knowing you’ve improved a player. This can be either by increasing his ability / technique or even making him mentally stronger and able to cope with the demands of professional football. What is your least favourite part about coaching? A: My least favourite part is when, at times you come across players who don’t or

haven’t made the most of their god-given talent. Whether it be through attitude or lack of desire and hunger to be the best. Do you have any thoughts on the money in football nowadays? It has attracted some of the best talents in the world to the premier league stage, but do you think it might have taken away from the development of young British players? A: Money? You can soon see as a coach, (a) the players who are in it just for the money or (b) the players to whom money is their secondary priority. It’s usually the second group who have more longevity… As regards the development of young players? I don’t think it’s taken away from their development if the hunger is still there. They have more time and coaching available to them but, and I emphasise this, that in itself can be a problem. I feel they have lost that ‘street wise’ doggedness and ability that’s needed to get the best out of themselves. Mark Bowen lives in Solihull and London. He was a left-back who played amongst others for Tottenham Hotspur, Norwich City, West Ham United. He also played international football for Wales. Since retiring in 1999, he is assistant to former international team-mate Mark Hughes at Wales, Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City Fulham, Queens Park Rangers and Stoke City.

A touch of Finesse A popular Bournville community centre is set to become an even more attractive facility to local people, after winning a competition to have windows worth £10,000 supplied and fitted free of charge. Trustees and regular users of Rowheath Pavilion are celebrating following their initial nomination for the award, and the enormous social media support from local people that saw them emerge as winners by a landslide in a competition run by Birmingham based window specialists, Finesse. Finesse - one of the region’s leading suppliers of domestic windows - organise the competition every year; inviting customers and followers of their ‘Facebook’ page to nominate worthy causes from local communities around and about their headquarters, at Melchett Road, Kings Norton. Three of those good causes then go forward to a vote, via their Facebook page, with members of the public invited to decide who they think should win the prize of free new windows, and the installation. “Rowheath Pavilion were the overwhelming choice of our customers and local people, and I am so pleased for them,” said Ellie Franklin, Customer Services Director at Finesse.

“We will be transforming the upstairs meeting room by providing floor to ceiling windows and a French door, so that the room can used to its full potential. Finesse makes a big virtue of being involved in the local communities near to our HQ, and we want to be able to provide our services to benefit a worthy local cause,” said Ellen. Rowheath Pavilion won the public affection over rivals The Samaritans (Birmingham), and Woodcock Hill Primary School. It is not just a local community centre, but provides a base for many clubs and societies. The window and door designs have been approved by Bournville Village Trust to retain the unique character of the building. Mark Isgrove, manager of Rowheath Pavilion said: “We can’t thank Finesse enough, and we’re all so excited about the windows and the French door being fitted. It is going to make an enormous difference.”

Where to eat The Agrabad Finest Balti Restaurant 884 Old Lode Lane Solihull, B92 8LW

A guide to the best places to eat in and around Solihull

Janito British Continental Fusion Knowle, B93 0JU 01564 779 802

0121 743 7883

Beeches Bar & Grill Hampton in Arden, B92 0AH 01675 442 277

Bella Venezia Italian Knowle B93 0JU 01564 779806

01564 779929

Khana Peena Bangla Cuisine 1039 Stratford Road, Hall Green, B28 8AS 0121 777 3961

The King’s Arms 2110 Warwick Rd Knowle Canalside. 01564 771 177

The Farm British Shelly Farm off Monkspath B90 4EH

Knowle Indian Brasserie B93 0LY

0121 745 1755

The Forest Restaurant At The Forest Hotel 25 Station Approach, Dorridge, Solihull, B93 8JA 01564 772 120 2 Rosetttes Happy Heart Cafe 26 Richmond Road, Olton, B92 7RP 0121 706 8674

The Lazy Cow Steakhouse Warwick Rd, Solihull, B91 3DA

01564 785364

Pavarotti Italian Solihull Ice Rink, B92 8JN 0121 743 3222

The Punchbowl Lapworth, B94 6HR 01564 784 564 Red House British Carvery Hermitage Rd Sollihull B91 2LP

0121 704 1567

0121 711 8856

The Little Owl Country Pub Bickenhill Parkway B401QA

Thai Brasserie 52 Station Road, B91 3RX

0121 781 0331

0121 704 0353

Loch Fyne Seafood Knowle B93 0JU

The Thai Village Restaurant High Street Knowle B93 0LF

01564 732 2750

Luna Rosa Spanish/Italian Knowle, B93 0LE 01564 739 395

Some organic, local produce, live events

The Malt Shovel at Barston B92 0JP

Hillfield Farm Family pub classics, traditional carvery with children’s play area. 2 Cranbrook Way, Shirley, B90 4GT

01675 443 223

01564 444 2833

The Orange Tree Chadwick End B93 0BN

01564 776 453

0121 711 7273

The Finest Catch Shirley A family Fish & Chips Restaurant 1097 Stratford Road Solihull, B90 4EB

Minh’s Chinese 8 Station Road, Knowle, B93 8HH

Metro Bar & Grill Warwick Rd, B91 3DX 0121 705 9495

01564 771 595

Wagamama Japanese Touchwood B91 3GS 0121 711 7075

Zengz Asian Vegetarian Old Lode Lane, B92 8JE 0121 722 2099

ZiZi Italian Poplar Rd B91 3AB 0121 704 5030

Solihull Pensioners Convention This friendly, non party-political group of men and women pensioners meet at 11.00am every 4th Wednesday of the month in Solihull Methodist Church Hall, adjacent to Solihull Rail & Bus Station. Their aim is to help improve the quality of life for people during their retirement years, by campaigning locally and nationally, meeting with MPs, Councillors and local Statutory Bodies to discuss important relevant issues such as pensions, health and transport. They enjoy regular guest speakers who give interesting and informative talks on a variety of subjects. Members then have the opportunity to ask questions and put proposals forward. Various social activities and subsidised outings also take place during the year for members.

For further information contact:

Syd Ashby 0121 705 6448 Chairman Alan Thomas 0121 705 3342 Secretary

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Jigsaw therapy “Making order out of chaos” - a quote from theatre producer Michael Codron who has done a jigsaw a day for 30 years.

• Completed puzzles can be donated to a charity store or retirement home. The downside? • It costs • Takes up space on your dining room table.

Jigsaws? Aren’t they something for children to play with? Or the elderly? Not so. Our Queen is an addict, apparently having borrowed many over the years from the British Jigsaw Puzzle Library. Jigsaws are often bought by those needing distraction - folk who are poorly or people grown weary of the mind-numbing frustrations and addictive nature of playing solitaire and games on computers. Some call jigsaw puzzles their sanity saver. Consider this… • It can be done by all the family and friends who drop by usually join in. • It encourages chatter and discussion. Even sensitive discussions can take place between two people as the jigsaw puzzle acts as a distraction, defusing the intensity of a difficult dialogue. • It is gratifying in many ways. • Can’t sleep? Work on the jigsaw puzzle…. • It’s a fun team achievement. • It’s educational - think of doing ‘Map of The World’, ‘Flags of the World’ or ‘The Human Body’.

• It’s hard breaking up the beautiful picture you’ve spent days or weeks creating. There is someone I know who has a high pile of magnificent, completed jigsaw puzzles. As they’re done on a large board, once the puzzle is completed it’s slid gently onto the top of a finished pile - pieces intact - the empty boxes piling ever higher in a corner of the dining room. This person has tragically lost her oldest son - at just 21yrs old. The jigsaw puzzle has become her family’s therapy and distraction. When the other children can’t sleep they come and join her at the table - silently working together and united. So, think about buying one for Christmas and be absorbed, avoiding squabbles about what to watch on telly. Remember the very ending of the film Love Actually? One small little insignificant seeming jigsaw puzzle piece is symbolic of the importance of every tiny part essential to creating a far greater picture… PS - The first thing seen on entering our cover-story celebrities’ living room? A jigsaw puzzle. The wonderful Don Maclean is an active puzzle-er. by Julia Parsons

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Entries must be received by 15 December. Johnstan’s Family Butchers, 74-76 High Street, Kings Heath, B14 7JZ, 0121 444 4344

WIN a four course lunch for two

To celebrate gaining our Michelin star we are giving away a four course lunch for two at our restaurant in Moseley. For your chance to win simply answer the following question:.

Q. Birmingham now has how many Michelin star restaurants? A. 4 B. 5 C. 6 To enter complete the competition form at www.swanpublishing.org

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The well known ballet featuring toys that come to life is called: A) The Nutcracker B) Swan Lake C) Don Quixote To enter please fill in the competition form at www.swanpublishing.org by 15 December.

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Evie is pictured here (centre) with a group of her fellow volunteers

Struggling with drug addiction? Help is out there Evie Boulstridge, age 17, from Bablake Sixth Form has been working with a local addiction support charity and tells us about it in her own words. The definition of addiction is a ‘chronic, relapsing brain disease’ that is capable of changing both the structure and the functionality of one of our most vital organs. It’s a complex illness with serious consequences and can last a lifetime if left untreated… so why is it still seen as a flaw in character, a sign of weakness? Addicts are portrayed as dangerous, unpredictable characters whose reputations have been forever tarnished. Sympathy can be hard to come by making it difficult to seek help. Deciding to make a positive change in their life often becomes a cause of shame and loneliness. We’ve all made mistakes as we’ve journeyed through our lives and addiction is no different. Surely sufferers deserve support, rather than judgement? As part of The Challenge (funded by the National Citizen Service) together with a team of young people from the West Midlands I have been working closely with the small charity Welcome which supports those in Solihull in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, providing facilities to aid their recovery and valuable job opportunities. Welcome also provides support for the families of those affected by addiction and promotes a better understanding of the difficulties their loved-ones face. The Welcome2Welcome Campaign has been created to raise awareness about this much-needed charity and to highlight its work in our community. It challenges negative stereotypes associated with addiction, with the aim of creating a more positive outlook for those whose lives have been touched by this tragic illness. If you are an addict or know one,

these guys can help point you in the right direction for help… go to www.welcome-charity.org.uk. If you’re interested in helping to spread the message, the #WelcomeWishes Challenge is a simple but effective way to let those who are struggling, or in recovery, know they are not alone… all you need to do is:

The #WelcomeWishes Challenge: 1. post a selfie onto any social media platform of you holding a message of encouragement towards people in recovery from drug/alcohol/gambling addiction 2. tag your photo with hashtags #welcome2welcome and

#welcomewishes

3. like the Welcome2Welcome Facebook page 4. nominate three other friends to complete the challenge within the next 24 hours Facebook -

facebook.com/welcome2 welcomesolihull Welcome Centre -

http://welcome-charity.org.uk by Evie Boulstridge

photography by: www.sevenstarphotography.co.uk

Human of Solihull - Stavros Kiriakou - The chipper chipper One of the most familiar characters in the Monkspath / Hillfield area, Stavros or Steve as many know him, has run the Shelley Farm Fish and Chip for 30 years. Now retired and living in Solihull, he is often to be seen at the shop even though he has handed over the management reins to his daughter and son-in-law. But who is the wellknown, popular face behind the counter? Stavros arrived in England in 1965 from Greek Cyprus, a young man with very little to his name, leaving his life there because work was hard to find. He came to Stechford where two cousins ran a chip shop and borrowed £2,000 to set up his own in Lakey Lane, Hall Green. On a trip home to Cyprus, he met and married his wife. Three children later and with a thriving business - he bought another chip shop in Yardley Wood with his brother, eventually owning three shops having purchased another one in Rugby. This man was a force to be reckoned with ambitious and motivated, putting in unremitting hours of manual work. It also helped that fish and chips have always been England’s number one favourite takeaway food.

In 1993 he bought the premises in Shelly Farm. With high standards always maintained, the immaculate shop thrives. Stavros returns to Cyprus and the village of Mazotos, eight miles from Larnaca, for a few months each year. He smiles remembering the pleasure of being able to pick citrus fruit from trees in his garden, enjoying the social pleasure that comes from growing up in this pretty, small village where everyone knows each other’s history and family. He loves England and has no regrets leaving his homeland. Despite the decades of relentless hard work - he feels it’s been a good life, especially when able to spend time with his three grandchildren. And his philosophy? He says: “being a part of the community is important to me. Customers need to be respected and looked after and I value kindness.” This human of Solihull inspires, demonstrating that opportunity is available to turn into success with work, courage and kindness.

Feeling confused about the difference between the many charitable societies in Solihull? You’re not alone In the Borough of Solihull we are lucky to have many people who are active members of international clubs whose basic theme is fellowship… dedicated men and women who share a common interest in helping others. They all spend much of their time supporting local and international charities and disasters. To list a few, there are Rotary & Inner Wheel, Round Table and Ladies Circle, The Lions, The Soroptimists and The Freemasons, who together organise events for people to enjoy, whilst raising many thousands of pounds to benefit good causes, and providing practical help. Solihull has more than 20 of these types of global organisations represented here. Events organised by our local branches include The Dorridge Festival, Disability Sports Day, The Knowle Fun Run, Fun in the Park, The Tudor Grange Fireworks display, golf, bowling and boxing tournaments. They are fun with a serious remit - to help the disabled, disadvantaged and terminally ill or where a need is established for equipment outside health and council budgets.

And they fundraise for charitable organisations which save lives for everyone, young and old, in our community. As members of international groups they have an excellent advantage when there is a major disaster. Goods and money can be distributed quickly to provide emergency aid through these worldwide clubs to ensure they go direct to those that need it. For example The Rotary have ‘Shelter Boxes’ stocked in warehouses that contain tents and items that will support a family’s immediate needs for weeks and that can be dispatched worldwide within hours of an emergency call. New members joining the clubs find a warm welcome into social networking which can benefit those in business. Regular meetings together with planned events can also be great fun. If the idea appeals to you, contact a club local to your area and visit one of their meetings - it may be the way for you to make new friends, gain interests and have fun whilst playing an important part, benefiting your community.

Special moments deserve seven stars

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“We have meat to please you and we are pleased to meet you” Proudly trading in Kings Heath for over 50 years

Free Range and Organic products available

Local orders over £40 can be delivered to your home

Christmas Hampers and Meat Vouchers

Outside catering available for celebration and self catering needs

All meat cut fresh on the day We sell free range pork, beef, lamb and chicken: Local free-range Shropshire Lamb, freerange English Hereford Beef (dry aged for 21 days minimum), Orchard free-range English Pork, locally sourced English free-range Chickens, shop made sausages

Johnstan’s Family Butchers, 74-76 High Street, Kings Heath, B14 7JZ, 0121 444 4344

Johnstan’s

Christmas Order Form

Complete this and take into the store to reserve your Christmas fare Loyalty Card Discounts Available!

Customer Name: …………………………………………………... Address (inc postcode) : ………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………… Tel: …………………………………………………………………… Email: ………………………………………………………………... Date & day of collection: ………………………………………….

Turkey (FRESH) Barn, Free Range, Organic or Dry Frozen (All English)

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Goose or Duck

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Chicken or Capon

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Pork or Beef or Lamb Joint

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Bacon Joint or Gammon Joint

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Sausage or Sausage Meat (21 varieties)

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Chipolata Sausage or Pigs in Blankets

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Local Venison - all cuts

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Pork or Game Pies

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Game: Pheasants or Partridge or Wild Ducks

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Christmas Hampers or Gift Vouchers

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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 Member of ISM Blenheim Road, Moseley

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n home. Lessons in your ow loma level dip to r ne gin be m Fro cal cti pra d Theory an ngs Heath Whitland Drive, Ki

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Tel: 0121 449 2135

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11+ courses and mock exams For years 4, 5 and 6

www.ksol.co.uk Tel: 0121 733 6558

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If you are a local tutor and would like your details printed here please email:

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Do you want your home decorated? J.R.S. DECORATORS Local decorators that specialise in

quality workmanship Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating For a free quotation call

James Gill today on 07896 439 201 or email jrsdecorators@gmail.com Brook Lane, Kings Heath B13 0TL

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A Selection of Clubs & Societies in and around Solihull Arden Bridge Club 0121 745 1389 Arden Tennis, Squash, Gym & Social Club 0121 704 9451 www.solihullarden.co.uk Dorridge Flower Club: 01926 484598 www.southmidlandsnafas.org.uk/dorridge Heart of England Speaking & Leadership Club in Knowle Info: www.heartspeakers.org.uk Knowle Camera Club www.knowlecameraclub.co.uk Knowle & Dorridge Ladies Circle wwwladiescircle.co.uk melaniemeadwell@hotmail.co.uk Knowle & Dorridge Lions 08458 335894 www.knowleanddorridgelions.com Knowle Flower Club 01564 775899 Knowle Probus Club 01527 529363 www.knowleprobus.org.uk member@wiles38.freeserve.co.uk Knowle and Dorridge Racquets Club www.knowleanddorridgeracquets.co.uk Knowle and Dorridge Running Club www.knowleanddorridgerunningclub.org.uk Knowle Women's Institute Mrs Pat Bedward 01564 770485 mbpbknowle@talktalk.net Silhill Bridge Club 01564 782232 www.bridgewebs.com/silhill Silhill Morris Dancers www.silhillmorris.weebly. com 01564 778270 diplock912@virginmedia.com Solihull (Historic) Athletics Club www.solihullathletics.co.uk Solihull Archaeological Group 0121 783 8517 www.sites.google.com/site/solihullarchaeology Solihull Blossomfield Townswoman's Guild 0121 705 7226 Catherine de Barnes Art Society of Arts patricia.ritchie@mypostoffice.co.uk Solihull Central Badminton Club Tel: 01564 777495 stevearms@gmail.com Solihull Central University of the Third Age U3A sol.centralu3a@gmail.com Solihull Canoe Club 0843 289 5272 Solihull Chandos Choir www.solihull chandoschoir.org CYCLE Solihull Provides routes on minor rds; organises free rides w/leader & back marker. www.cyclesolihull.org.uk Solihull Cycling Club secretary@solihullcc.org.uk Solihull & District Orchid Society 01295 788159 LaeliaM@aol.com

Solihull & District, Soroptimist International Club sisolihull@yahoo.co.uk www.si-solihull.org.uk Solihull Flower Club www.southmidlandsnafas.org/solihull Solihull Indoor Bowls Club 0121 709 2233 www.solihullindoorbowlsclub.co.uk Solihull Karate & Self Defence Club www.TheEKO.eu Solihull Ladies Probus 0121 705 3118 mollywindle42@me.com Solihull Ladies Football Club www.solihullladiesfc.co.uk Solihull Lions Club 0845 300 197 www.solihulllionsclub.org.uk Solihull Local History Circle 0121 706 0204 artist4you@btinternet.com Solihull Model Flying Club www.smfc.co.uk 0121 705 7459 Solihull Mountaineering Club 0121 744 1468 or 07776 492009 Solihull Open Gardens www.solihullsopengardens.com Solihull Petanque at Blossomfield Club www.blossomfieldclub.co.uk/solihull_club_de_ petanque : Barry Cox 01564 730151 Solihull Photographic Society www.solihullphotographicsociety.com Solihull Society of Arts Recorded Music Circle 0121 705 1041 Solihull Riding Club 01564 770180 Solihull Rotary Club at West Midlands Bridge Club www.1060.org.uk/solihull RSPB Solihull Group www.rspb.org.uk/groups/solihull Solihull Singing For Pleasure 0121 704 4006 Solihull Speakers Club www.solihullspeakers.co.uk. Mtgs held at Downing Hall, Knowle. Solihull Society of Arts - Art Section 0121 706 5042/4379 Solihull Swimming Club www.solihullswimmingclub.co.uk Solihull Symphony Orchestra www.solihullsymphony.org.uk 0121 745 5548 Solihull Twinning Association Heather Clarke 015644 702976 Solihull Water Polo Club www.solihullswimmingclub.co.uk/waterpolo Solihull Women's Institute www.solihullwi.co.uk

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 37

Local Business Directory Buildersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Merchants EH Smith

Building and Roofing 2G 2nd Generation Builders 30 Adam Askey 2 Butchers Johnstans Butchers

Clubs & Societies

Competition page

Conservatories & Orangeries Finesse Windows Ltd The Harborne Sash Window Company

20 44

Driveways Central Driveways

Graphic Design Digital Glue

Healthcare Spire Parkway Hospital

Painting & Decorating JRS Decorating 36 Krean Property Maintenance 12

Tiling Cullen Plumbing & Tiling

Plastering Alan Halford

Toy Shop Togademus 30

Tree Surgeon Betel UK Gardens & Treeworks Westside Forestry

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Tutor Listing

Web Design Digital Glue

Plumbing Cullen Plumbing & Tiling Restaurant Sweet Chillies Restaurant Guide

8 6 25

Estate Agent Hunters Estates

Fireplace Showroom MD Services

Roofing Adam Askey

28 12 8

Solicitors Quality Solicitors Davisons 22 The Wilkes Partnership 13

Photography Seven Star Photography

Retirement Village Lime Trees 15 Warwick Retirement Village 10

Garden Services Betel UK Gardens & Treeworks Central Driveways Westside Forestry

Sheltered Housing Rayner House & Yew Trees 8

School Edgbaston High School for Girls

Windows & Doors Finesse Windows Ltd The Harborne Sash Window Company Working From Home Opportunities for You

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BANNER

QUARTER

SIXTH

65 x 95mm

EIGHTH

65 x 45mm

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ign t des r e v Ad £30 l a rtori £50 e v d A ation ar r p ep 39

harbornesash.com

WINTER IS COMING...

R you educe con r ener gy su by umption p to

80%

Enhance the warmth & beauty of your home this season Visit us at our showroom & full size orangery to see our exquisite range of heat retaining sash, bay & casement windows, entrance and bi-foldingdoors.

Showroom opening times: 9-5 Monday to Friday & 10-4 on Saturday

Call us on 0121 427 8800

Studios 5&6 Weekin Works, Park hill Road, Harborne, Birmingham, B17 9HD.