Your Local Community Newspaper: The only source for local news & community information Issue 14 April/May Edition 2018 Published in Coleshill, North Warks
NEWS| SPORT | BUSINESS | JOBS | WHAT'S ON | AND MUCH MORE
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Spitfire flypasts planned for Castle Bromwich FREE
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A SPITFIRE will once again be taking to the skies of North Solihull next month. Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens have confirmed that the famous fighter plane will complete two flypasts during the upcoming 1940s Weekend. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight plan to send the aircraft on both the Saturday and Sunday (May 12 and 13), although organisers stress that the event does depend on flying conditions. The flypasts are currently scheduled to take place around lunchtime and Other Side of Solihull will confirm as soon as a more precise time has been made available.
High quality, cost-effective legal services Call us on 01675 464400 or visit www.evansderry.com Visit us in person at 5 Church Hill, Coleshill or 30 Station Rd, Marston Green FAMILY LAW
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2 April/May 2018
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3 April/May 2018
LANDONS WETROOMS Bathroom & Tile Showroom
| Opening Hours : Open Tues - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat 11am - 4pm | Closed Sun & Mon
Landons Wetrooms Showers Ltd Tyburn Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 8NB 205
Tel: 0121 4484290 | www.landonswetrooms.co.uk
SOLIHULL HEARING CENTRE
HEARING AIDS HAVE CHANGED! You are invited to try the Best Hearing Aids of 2018 - we are local independent hearing specialists, this means more choice. We personally guarantee to carefully select the perfect hearing aid for you. You won’t know you’re wearing them and neither will your family and friends! Why not come to our special open event: Tuesday 1st May to Friday 5th May 9.30am - 4.30pm.
Call us today for an appointment on 0121 705 7177 or just pop in. Free home visits available Solihull Hearing Centre, 29 High Street (2 doors from Greggs bakers), Solihull B91 3SJ T: 0121 705 7177 W: suttonhearingcentre.co.uk
4 April/May 2018
Sports relief Students at The Coleshill School took part in a week of activities to celebrate and raise money for Sports Relief. During PE lessons students took part in Rowathlon challenge using rowing machines, spin bikes and step boxes. The challenge was to keep the rowers going during PE lessons, students represented their houses using the 4 rowers in week long inter house competitions After each lesson the number of meters covered contributed to an end of week total. The overall total rowed was an incredible 251,578 meters, overall 156 miles. The School also took part in the Sport Relief app step challenge and by the end of Friday had stepped a massive 4.8 million steps the equivalent to 3000 miles. The distance would be the equivalent of traveling from Birmingham to Ndjamena, which is situated in the middle of Africa. Further challenges during the week consisted of ‘taking part in Joe Wicks fitness DVD during tutor time; staff v students basketball and netball matches. Students held a non-uniform day on Friday 23rd March with all proceeds going to Sports Relief. Adam Gray, Head of PE, commented “It was great to see students and staff coming together and engaging in the challenges over the week. Sport is the perfect vehicle for bringing people together and raising money for a worthwhile charity. The pedometer was a real really simple but effective way to raise awareness of physical activity but also highlight the sedentary lifestyles that we can physically change. We hope to continue step challenge in years to come and showcase how active the students and staff are at The Coleshill School.
5 April/May 2018
Supporting people living with Parkinson’s This month we mark World Parkinson’s Day. With over 145,000 people estimated to be living with Parkinson’s in the UK alone, I’d like to take a moment to tell your readers why we’re passionate to do everything we can to be there for people in need of our support.
I work for Revitalise an incredible charity that provides respite holidays for disabled people and carers all across the UK. We welcome guests with over 150 different conditions – including Parkinson’s – every year, seeing for ourselves the vital importance of respite in enabling our guests to spend quality time with one another and to We understand that living with Parkinson’s can present daily challenges both for the people affected continue coping. and for those they hold close. We also understand If you would like to find out more about that having the reassurance of knowing that help Revitalise, our breaks, or ways that we may be able is at hand really can make all the difference. That’s to support you and your loved one, please visit: why, I’d like to take a moment to reassure your readers that they needn’t face the challenges that www.revitalise.org.uk or call: 0303 303 0145. Parkinson’s can bring alone, we’re here to help.
Stephanie Stone, Revitalise
6 April/May 2018
Twycross Zoo’s swinging superstar celebrates her 53rd birthday in style! Coco, Twycross Zoo’s oldest animal, recently
Kris Hern, Team Leader of Great Apes at Twycross
celebrated an impressive 53 years of life with Zoo, said: “We all absolutely adore Coco and she is very the ultimate birthday bash! The chimpanzee, special to us here at the Zoo. We are extremely proud who has been a favourite with visitors since her arrival in 1969, had a super fun day with her family, during which the whole troop got
of her and all she has done for her species. To have
created a family of over 30 chimps is quite staggering and she has been a vital part of our breeding programme, setting a tremendous example to all her
to tuck in to the ultimate birthday treat of young, who we hope follow in her footsteps.” peanut butter and blueberries! Families can see Coco this Easter for just £10 per Coco was the fourth resident to ever be registered to adult and £5 per child*, a massive £39.80 saving off a the Zoo, therefore a very popular member of the family. party of four**! Since her arrival she has created quite the chimp clan,
Twycross Zoo is open to the public from 10.00 to having had six children, 20 grandchildren, five great 18.00, 364 days a year. For more information and to grandchildren and one great great granddaughter; she book tickets visit www.twycrosszoo.org or call 0844 takes conservation seriously!
Coco
474 1777.
A home fit for CHIMP-ions at Twycross Zoo The countdown is on for the unveiling of Chimpanzee Eden at Twycross Zoo! The award-winning conservation charity based in the heart of England has created a new habitat for its chimpanzees, as part of its ambitious £55m Masterplan to become a national conservation organization and world-class visitor attraction.
students can learn about the natural world, the 1,160sqm habitat spans three stories high with outdoor climbing frames, providing more natural surroundings for the chimpanzees and an immersive jungle experience for visitors. Guests can peer over the glass-free walls and With work now almost complete, the Zoo’s iconic species are getting watch in amazement as the chimps thunder over the crowds in seeready to move into the £3.5m facility, purposely designed to pose the through tunnels to head outside. same kind of challenges that wild chimpanzees face in their daily lives and far more suited to their husbandry needs. The multi-story building At 11m high, the semi-translucent habitat will feature lush, tropical will provide outstanding facilities for both animal welfare, research, and native shrubs, with glazing and discreet openings allowing visitors education and visitors. to see chimps close up as they pass through the habitat. Decked with Dr Sharon Redrobe, CEO at Twycross Zoo says: “Twycross Zoo has imagery of chimps and forests in Cameroon, where the Zoo’s partner housed chimpanzees since our inception in 1963. Back then, many of the chimpanzees were socially naïve, having been hand-reared and Ape Action Africa works to rescue and protect chimpanzees (and maintained in very small social units. Our dedicated team has since gorillas), Chimpanzee Eden is guaranteed to be a spectacle to behold. spent several years ‘re wilding’ the chimps into larger social groups Twycross Zoo collaborated with the University of Birmingham to through award-winning introduction programmes, where the chimps develop an Enclosure Design Tool (EDT), to use science-based design had to learn how to interact with more individuals in a more complex for chimpanzees, using elements that mimic the physical and mental social context. It has always been a long-term aim for us to house all our chimps in challenges they face in their natural environment. Following its one place, as we want our animals to be living and behaving as closely successful deployment at the Leicestershire based zoo, the EDT has since to how they would in the wild. We place a strong emphasis on creating been launched nationally through The British and Irish Association of naturalistic habitats for our animals to live in and Chimpanzee Eden has been designed with this in mind; providing a larger, more complex Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), with future aims to introduce the EDT throughout European Zoos via The European Association of Zoos and space for our chimps to interact together.” Twycross Zoo is at the forefront of wild animal conservation, Aquaria (EAZA). education and research and has a strong commitment to its award The University also helped design cognition pods in Chimpanzee winning education programme which aims to increase the level of Eden, an area where the chimps can participate in puzzles, allowing awareness, knowledge and understanding of visitors about its animals. Chimpanzee Eden promises visitors a more engaging way of watching visitors and scientists to learn about the cognitive abilities of our and learning about its primates. Complete with a classroom area where closest living relatives.
Continued Sharon: “As a research-led charity, we hope to make a real difference to the quality of life for our chimpanzees by incorporating several recommended components into Chimpanzee Eden. The new habitat will allow the chimps to climb really high and move on dynamic structures that behave flexibly, similar to the branches and vines in forest canopies in their natural environment. This is vital for our conservation efforts and education programmes since chimpanzees move differently in static and dynamic environments and ensuring that they remain strong and quick-witted is a necessity for animal welfare. At the heart of our ambitious development plans lies a passionate commitment to the fundamental importance of environmental education and practical wildlife conservation, which is shared by the whole team at Twycross Zoo.”
Twycross Zoo is home to over 500 animals from around 130 species and open to the public from 10.00 to 18.00, 364 days a year. For more information and to book tickets visit www.twycrosszoo.org or call 0844 474 1777.
7 April/May 2018
81 Years of Hickton's By Roger Robinson
In 1909 Joe Hickton, a well-known carpenter, builder, undertaker, local counsellor (and one time Mayor of Rowley Regis), opened a dedicated funeral home located in Lower High Street, Cradley Heath in the Black Country, to focus on the funeral directing side of business. Along with his wife Rose, the local midwife. They became a large part of the local community, with the local saying being “she brings them in to the world, and he takes them out!” Their son William ‘Bill’ Hickton came in to the business in 1937 and the father and son partnership began carrying out funerals across Cradley Heath and the surrounding areas.
At about the same time as Bill Hickton was brushing off his top hat and leading his first funeral, a group of lads from Castle Bromwich had the notion to set up a bowls club at The Bradford Arms Pub in the village. Fast forward eighty-one years and both Hickton Family Funeral Directors and The Bradford Arms Bowls Club are still going strong. 2018 marks the 81st anniversary of the club and to mark this celebration, Hickton Family Funeral Directors have decided to team up with the ladies and gents at The Bradford Arms Bowls Club and offer them some much needed funds, to help them forge ahead for another 80 years. Club President and longest serving member of the bowls club, Mr David Williams Senior said “My own family’s involvement with The Bradford Arms Bowls Club spans three generations. Over the years we have seen quite a few changes as the sport has become less popular than it once was. In the 1970’s bowls was even more popular than
football. Having said that, The Bradford Arms Bowls Club has always been popular with local residents and we have always welcome new members with open arms”. Greg Hickton, 4th generation Funeral Director at Castle Bromwich added “Our family have a real interest in the history of Castle Bromwich and we are always looking for ways to give back to the local community. Our own family business dates back to 1909, so to be able to support such a long-standing organisation as Bradford Arms Bowls Club is a real privilege. It’s this kind of community spirit that helped us scoop the award for Traditional Funeral Director of the Year award at the 2016 Good Funerals Awards Ceremony. It’s an award we have worked very hard to achieve and we are all very proud”. Working alongside Golden Charter, Hickton Funeral Directors offer a range of pre-paid funerals. For further information, contact their Castle Bromwich branch at 320, Bradford Road, Castle Bromwich B36 9AD or call 0121 747 7900 for assistance.
About Us Established in the Black Country in 1909, the Hickton family have been serving the community for generations. The business currently in its 3rd and 4th generation of ownership, identified the need for a new modern independent funeral director to serve the Birmingham and Solihull areas. The funeral home opened in 2013, we undertook a re development and decoration of the building to a very modern and tasteful design. Many of the long established funeral homes in the local area have been sold to much larger corporations over the past 15 years and have no family members left involved in the business. Stephanie Mason is owned by The CO-OP, and W.H. Painter owned by Funeral Partners. These are both large nationwide companies. We are the only family owned funeral director in the area now. With our family ownership we feel in a position to give a much more caring service when called upon compared to large corporate companies. The Hickton family are able to draw on their 108 years of experience within the funeral profession and provide a very caring and dedicated service at time of need before or after a death has sadly happened.
24 Hour Service in all areas.
Home Visits & Arrangements
Payment Plans
DWP Social Help
Simple Low Cost Funeral Options
Private Chapels of Rest
Modern & Classic Vehicles
Professionally Trained Staff
Horse Drawn Hearse
Motorcycle Hearse
Pre-Paid Funeral Plans
Worldwide Repatriation
Proud National Winners of “Best Traditional Funeral Directors 2016”
320, Bradford Road, Castle Bromwich B36 9AD Opposite Toby Carvery (The Bradford Arms) 24 Hour: 0121 747 7900
RESIDENTS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Get in touch with your points of view Contact: serena.postgroup@outlook.com
8 April/May 2018
Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens May blossoms throughout the month at the Gardens. An event every weekend to suit everyone’s tastes. We are looking forward to lots of glorious blossoms on the orchard trees – If the weather has been kind in April, who knows what harvest there will be this year. The Gardens are open seven days a week (café closed Mondays and Fridays), so explore the 10 acres of green on your doorstep. Annual membership means that coming for a walk or to most of the events is a real bargain. The Gardens website and facebook pages are the place to double check what’s on.
Grandma was green!
Creative Textile Recycling Workshops Recycling and ‘upcycling’ is nothing new…our grandma’s probably called it Make do and Mend. Whether you recycle to save money or to save the planet it can be done creatively too. Join Birmingham based artist Jutta Stalhacke in our new series of community craft workshops at the Gardens. Every month these relaxed sessions will share creative ways of recycling old textiles like t-shirts, towels and clothing. Bring along you old textiles, scissors and even knitting for a great Saturday afternoon transforming your stuff and unleashing your creative threads. Sessions are designed for adults and supervised older children As well as your own creation on the day, we’ll create a joint work at each session using a loom in the trees. Throughout the summer Jutta will also be harvesting, spinning and weaving yarn from nettles and other plant sources found in the Gardens …
Saturdays monthly 2pm - 4pm £10 per session (include Garden entry)
Walks on the wild side: Forage, find, cook and eat. We’re teaming up with local environmentalist Dr Rob Tilling to explore the good things that grow in our area. Over Spring, Summer and Autumn Rob will be leading three wild walks discovering the natural bounty in our wayside and hedgerows. We’ll explore within the walls of the Gardens
and in the hedgerows and scrub behind, Sunday 20th May to spot and identify what is growing and Sunday 22nd July whether its edible. Together under Rob's supervision we’ll gather whatever wild herbs, leaves, berries and maybe roots are available and return to the Gardens to make a simple supper with your found ingredients, to share and eat together.
Sunday 9th Sept No previous experience needed. Suitable for adults and older supervised children (7 upwards) £20 adults/£10 under 16s per session Please book in advance (online or from the Gardens)
Saturday 28th April - different ways to transform an old t-shirt into as simple or maybe ‘elaborate’ bag Saturday May 26th - rag rugs - poking, pleating, knitting, crochet or weaving rugs with strips of fabric Saturday June 23rd - simple hand stitched patchwork projects with fabric scraps Saturday July 21st - completing/ experimenting/ designing your next project Book online or on the door
WE WOULD LIKE YOUR COMMENTS Contact: editor@thecoleshillpost.co.uk for more information
9 April/May 2018
Half Term- Unplug and Play Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (29th – 31st May) during the school break. 12-3pm Keep the kids active and entertained this holiday with our regular Unplug and Play outdoor and simple craft activities. As well as our normal simple crafts we’ll also be planting and tending our community vegetable garden – a new area beside our historic walled vegetable garden. Join the Gardener and get stuck in to simple gardening and weeding suitable for the young ones together with their grown ups.
Prices: £2 for all Unplug and Play visitors over 5, FREE for Family Activities Annual Pass holders
A summer of music in the Gardens We have 6 fabulous different musical offerings for our visitors this summer. A chance to hear quality live music in the beautiful surroundings of the Gardens. Whether you use our chairs, bring your own or spread a blanket, the atmosphere is relaxed and relaxing. Come with a picnic, maybe buy one of our homemade cakes or cream tea in a box. We even have a brand new tent for a little shelter if it’s wet – or hot!! You can buy a ticket on the door or online in advance.
Sunday 10th June - 150 years of musical theatre - in an afternoon. 3:00 pm-5:00 £8 Sunday 17th June - West Midlands Light Orchestra 2:00 pm-4:00 £8 Sunday 5th July - Central England Concert Band 3:00 pm-5:00 £8 Saturday 28th July – A full, hilarious production of 'Pirates of Penzance' (an Illyria production) 3:00 pm-5:30 £15 Saturday 11th August, , K’antu Ensemble – a fun join in practical workshop for kids and an intriguing concert for grownups later. 1pm and 3.30pm, £6 Saturday 25th August , 7-9pm and Sunday 26th August , 3-5pm The Mikado- The Willmore Singers £10
Special Ticket Deal Buy a ticket for Pirates of Penzance (£15) and get 25% off another ‘Music in the Gardens’ concert. (Proof of Pirates Purchase needed to trigger discount) Online or in person
Coming up in July CircusMash – The big takeover - 250th anniversary of circus! Saturday June 2nd, 12.30 -4.30 £6 for everyone over 5, Group ticket (<4 people) £20 Roll up, roll up! We are celebrating 250 years of circus at the Gardens and you’re invited! We will be celebrating in style with a range in community performances, drop in circus workshops and a few surprises, so make sure you save the date. CircusMASH have stunned communities for years with their award winning circus experiences and now is your chance to join the frivolity. Live life like a circus!”
The Crescent Theatre Company present 'Emma' 30th June and 1st July 3.00pm to 7.00pm £10 an excellent adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic, ‘Emma’, in the beautiful setting of Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens. Booking advisable. Event Starts at 3 pm. Chairs are available, or bring your own and a picnic! Book online or in person in advance or on the day. Fundraising Car Boot Sale, Sunday 8th July, 8.30am -12.30pm
10 April/May 2018
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Hydro-Therapy Rehabilitation
Congratulations to Rachel on completing her City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma for Professional Dog Stylists.
Is your dog slowing down and being reluctant to go on walks? Do they suffer from arthritis and struggle to get up and about? Do they appear to be in discomfort with their joints? If so then Hydrotherapy can help improve your dogs quality of life. Hydrotherapy is a non weight bearing exercise that can have a wide range of benefits and can greatly improve conditions and injuries including:
PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMING SERVICE For specific breed prices please call. All groom prices include a free nail trim and ear clean.
Grain Free Foods Available in our shop
Dog Day Care
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Dog Grooming
Level 3 Qualified, City & Guilds
Unit 12a Jubilee Estate, Gorsey Lane, Coleshill, B46 1JU t: 01675 465775 | e: J-K9@btconnect.com |
• Arthritis • Hip and elbow dysplasia • Ligament damage • Patella Luxation • Pre and post surgery fitness • Neurological issues
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We have helped many dogs young and old regain their fitness and strength following surgery, injury or with existing conditions such as arthritis. Please call for further information, to view or discuss your dogs requirements.
11 April/May 2018
Countryside hit by crime wave as thefts hit four year peak
• Cost of rural crime at its highest since 2013 • Leading rural insurer records 13.4 per cent increase in just one year • South East,Wales and Midlands see steepest rise Leading rural insurer NFU Mutual has warned that Britain’s
“From the South East of England to the North of Scotland we’re
The steepest rises regionally in the cost of theft claims were in Wales,
countryside is in the grip of a rural crime wave, as latest seeing brazen criminals stealing cars, 4 x 4s, tractors, quad bikes and the Midlands and South East England. Only one region, the north East figures reveal a sharp rise in the cost of rural thefts. Initial estimates from the insurer show theft cost the UK’s rural homes, businesses and farms a staggering £44.5m in 2017, the highest level in four years. Analysis of NFU Mutual’s claim statistics, the insurer of almost three quarters of the UK’s farms and thousands of rural businesses and homes, reveals 2017 saw an increase of 13.4% - the highest year on year percentage rise since 2010. Every year, NFU Mutual publishes a detailed report on rural crime trends in August which provides detailed analysis including county statistics and information on changing patterns of theft. This year, widespread concern in rural communities has led NFU Mutual to issue
tools. We’re especially concerned that criminals are becoming more of England recorded a significant fall in the cost of theft claims. sophisticated and are overcoming electronic security to steal expensive As the main insurer of the countryside, NFU Mutual has responded vehicles of all types.
to its members’ concerns about rural crime by supporting local and “With police facing huge challenges – including budget cuts and extra national rural security initiatives. workload – forces are finding it hard to resource rural policing and this NFU Mutual is part of a rural policing strategic review organised by may be one of the reasons for the rise in thefts we are seeing. the Police Chiefs’ Council, and has invested over £1m in schemes set “There is still a perception among criminals that there are easy up to tackle agricultural vehicle theft and rural crime. For six years it targets in the countryside – and farmers and homeowners can do a lot has funded a specialist agricultural vehicle police officer through the to deter thieves by taking simple security measures. Fitting gates to National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) for the good of prevent easy access to farm yards and drives is one of the most effective the farming industry coordinating farm machinery theft information measures. High-tech security such as movement detectors, infra-red cameras and ‘geo-fencing’, which triggers an alarm if a farm vehicle between police forces, Border Force and Interpol. NFU Mutual are also
an early warning to farmers and country dwellers to increase security. moves off the premises, can also play their part.
one of the key stakeholders with the Plant & Agricultural National
“Social media is fast becoming the new eyes and ears of the countryside Intelligence Unit (PANIU). In Scotland NFU Mutual provides financial support for the Scottish 300 local branch offices have revealed widespread concern that more and keeping in close touch with neighbours and police through local criminals are targeting the countryside and they are going for richer farmwatch schemes can play a significant role in identifying suspicious Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC). It also provides support and “NFU Mutual’s close links to farmers and country people through our
pickings,” said Tim Price, NFU Mutual Rural Affairs Specialist.
activity and bringing thieves to justice.”
expert advice to many local farm and rural watch schemes.
12 April/May 2018
Anti-hate group plans more youth events The anti-hate campaign West Midlands Together is planning to build on the success of its youth conference held in February Proposals for two further youth events were outlined when the campaign's steering group met in Birmingham. One will be held in Herefordshire in September partly focusing on incidents of hate crime against eastern Europeans and others in that county and in Worcestershire. The other will be a second region-wide youth conference, to be staged in the West Midlands conurbation in early 2018 with the intention of making it an annual event. West Midlands Together is a cross-party organisation to promote tolerance and harmony. It was launched by Conservative MEP Anthea McIntyre and her Labour colleague Neena Gill following a spike in hate crime following the Brexit referendum. Miss McIntyre said: "Our steering group reviewed the February event - which was so vibrant and inspiring - and decided this work with young people must continue.
"We already had one request to bring a version of the youth event to Herefordshire, which will help to demonstrate hate crime is a problem too in rural areas and smaller towns and cities. "So we decided to go ahead with that as a one-off and to work to establish the region-wide conference as an annual event. "The young people we have worked with were so energetic, so committed and so honest that it was clear we had to carry on showcasing that energy." Further details of both events will be unveiled later this year.
Reward of up to £4,000 after attempted gunpoint robbery on a mum and her two children in Wolverhampton The independent charity Crimestoppers is today offering a reward of up to £4,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for a gunpoint robbery on a mum and her two teenage children in Wolverhampton. On the morning of Wednesday 21 February, a mum was leaving home with her children at around 10:35am to go to the bank to open accounts for them. On stepping out of her home on Tumbler Grove Park Village, Wolverhampton, she was confronted by a man whose face was covered and was pointing a gun at her whilst demanding money. He searched her, her car and also the children including her daughter’s Satchel bag, whilst continuing to point the gun at the family. A number of neighbours, who had appeared after hearing a commotion, also had the gun pointed at them. He then fled the scene by making off in a white Toyota Yaris that was driven by an accomplice. The getaway vehicle had tinted windows, a black stripe down the sides and the model year is believed to be between 2012 and 2014. The gunman is described as a man, black, aged between 20 and 28 years old and of slim build. A reward of up to £4,000 is now being offered for information given anonymously to Crimestoppers that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible. Pauline Hadley, West Midlands Regional Manager at the charity Crimestoppers, said: “We believe everyone has the right to feel safe, wherever they live and work. This poor mother and her children were left understandably traumatised by this terrifying experience. To think that this happened in broad daylight in a residential area.
“Our reward is designed to encourage people to speak up and stop *Note: The reward will only qualify if information is passed to crime. If you know who is responsible, please help protect the people Crimestoppers’ 0800 555 111 number or via the non-traceable you care about by telling our charity what you know. You will remain 100% anonymous. Always. Call 0800 555 111 or use our non-traceable anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. Information passed directly to police will not qualify. online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org”
13 April/May 2018
Castle Bromwich Infant and Nursery School Events. We had a very exciting time at Castle Bromwich Infant and Nursery School last term. The children all worked very hard at their lessons but then were able to take part in our charity event which was a danceathon for Sport Relief The children thoroughly enjoyed the day all dressed in their disco clothes and took the sponsorship very seriously. We have raised in excess of ÂŁ4,450.00 and are so grateful to all of the parents/carers and their friends and relations who supported the children.
Windows (UPVC & Aluminium)
Garage Doors
Doors (including Bi-Fold & Composite) Roof Lanterns Conservatories
Domestic & Commercial Work
32 Birmingham Road, Water Orton, Birmingham B46 1TH At the end of term we had an Easter competition. Children were invited to decorate an egg and bring it to school. We had some wonderful creations and one child from each class won an Easter egg for their efforts; our winners were: Emily from Bluebells, Alissa from Foxes, Chase from Hedgehogs, Lawson from Robins, Riley from Swans, Holly from Swallows, Isaac from Squirrels, Jessica from Hedgehogs, Jake from Owls, Edijah from Tulips, Lacy from Daffodils, Daisy-Mae from Snowdrops and Lilly-May and Tiani from Nursery.
RESIDENTS
WE WOULD LIKE YOUR COMMENTS Contact: serena.postgroup@outlook.com for more information
14 April/May 2018
It’s full steam ahead for inspirational Show Gardens and Beautiful Borders at BBC Gardeners’ World Live
Wyevale Garden Centres Solutions Garden
Made In Birmingham
Tesco Every Little Helps Garden
BBC Gardeners’ World Live, one of the country’s best loved gardening shows, has announced the Show Gardens and an unprecedented number of Beautiful Borders to inspire visitors to the Show at Birmingham’s NEC from 14 – 17 June.
designed by David Stevens, where each zone illustrates stunning, yet practical, ways to deal with common garden problems from soil types to dry shade and water conservation to weed control. Wyevale Garden Centre experts will be on hand at every point to talk you through the solutions and help you apply them to your own garden. Next, you’ll find the Tesco ‘Every Little Helps’ Garden designed by Owen Morgan, a family space with areas and activities for all ages without compromising on luxury and design. There are sure to be elements you’ll want to recreate at home straight away including a Mediterranean inspired border, play area complete with den, secret garden within a wildlife area, outdoor dining, kitchen and bar area plus space for growing tasty veg. Setting the bar in Show Gardens, Diarmuid Gavin, one of the most well-known names in garden design, has designed not just one but TWO gardens for the show this year. Four of the UKs brightest young sparks in landscaping will have constructed the gardens from scratch, packed with design features, variety of materials, and incredible planting combinations, as part of the inaugural Young Landscapers Competition sponsored by Marshalls. Moving on you’ll get to the Association of Professional Landscapers Avenue where five Show Gardens, designed and built by five of the
country’s leading landscaping companies, demonstrate what incredible results can be achieved in a typical back garden and how realizing the garden of your dreams is within your reach. For visitors keen on transforming their front garden into a practical but appealing space to park the car, the Marshalls Front Garden illustrates best practice with a design that’ll be the envy the street. As you keep going around the show you’ll find even more, including three Small Gardens and more than twenty Beautiful Borders, all packed with ways to make every space amazing. Organisers would like to offer up a big thank you to sponsors Rolawn, as the Show Garden designers and contractors are all able to benefit from their Medallion Turf and their safe, consistent, fertile growing media. With a day out at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, whatever sized plot you’ve got, you’ll find yourself going home with a head full of ideas and expert advice, plus a car full of perfect plants and gardening kit. You won’t need to waste even a minute in getting started when you get home! Celebrate the best of summer gardening at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, 14 – 17 June at Birmingham’s NEC. Find out more and book tickets today at bbcgardenersworldlive.com
Steam train enthusiasts will want to head for the Made in Birmingham feature garden to make their way through a prize allotment and wildflower embankment to the signal box and up aboard The Eagle, a traditional Pullman Dining Carriage, positioned behind a working steam engine. The beautifully restored train, the first ever seen in a Show Garden, will have made its way to the Show from Vintage Trains’ local Tyseley works. The garden further celebrates the industrial heritage of the Black Country with an impressive field of barley and hops to illustrate the region’s brewing industry, including sampling from local brewery Davenports. Designer Paul Stone is also working with a MIND group in Knowle to grow the cutting garden plants. “We want to celebrate the vigor and energy of the Birmingham powerhouse, from the past to the current day” says Paul, awardwinning designer of the Made in Birmingham feature garden. Moving around the Show Gardens, visitors will be able to walk through the extensive Wyevale Garden Centres Solutions Garden
Celebrating the houseplant renaissance at BBC Gardeners’ World Live As the resurgence in house plants takes the UK by storm in 2018, BBC Gardeners’ World Live has introduced a new stage dedicated to the art of indoor gardening – Blooming Interiors. The Blooming Interiors stage brings indoor gardening gurus to the fore including Matt Biggs, author of Practical Guide to Growing Healthy Houseplants and Jane Perrone, presenter of podcast On The
Then all you need to do is start creating your own indoor jungle! Browse over 100 places selling quality plants, many suitable for indoor gardening, in the Floral Marquee and Plant Village at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (14-17 June at Birmingham’s NEC). From Streptocarpus, orchids and air plants to cacti, carnivorous plants and the stunningly colourful Coleus you’ll be spoilt for choice! As houseplant-mania hits the streets, we’ve asked Jane Perrone, famed Gardening Editor of Guardian and presenter of On the Ledge, for her top tips for extending your garden indoors.
Ledge. Michael Perry (Mr Plant Geek) completes the line-up with an 1. Know your plants! exclusive Houseplant Edition of his Weird and Wacky Plant Show. Complementing the houseplant hotshots, British Florist Association experts present daily demos on how to create the most stunning indoor displays with your garden flowers. You can even pay a visit to renowned floral designer Jonathan Moseley and his team on the British Flower Bus for more floristry tips, situated next to the Blooming Interiors stage.
Houseplants come in all shapes and sizes, and all have different requirements for watering, feeding, light, humidity and potting compost. For instance, plants that come from tropical climates tend to like moist soil and high humidity, whereas cacti from desert areas are happy in dry air and don't need watering as much. The more you can find out about the houseplants you own, the better you'll be able to care for them, so invest in a good book on houseplants or join an online community to connect with others who share your interests. (And listen to On The Ledge podcast of course...)
2. Don't overwater Most houseplants are killed by one thing - too much water. Confusingly, plants are just as likely to be wilting because they are waterlogged as opposed to because they are short of water. Always test the compost with your finger before watering, and as a rule only water when the soil feels dry down to a depth of about 3cm (although bear in mind point number 1 - there are many exceptions to this rule!). Finally, make sure you allow pots to drain and remove any water from the bottom tray or cachepot so the plant isn't sitting in water.
3. Keep them close Stick a houseplant high up on a shelf and the likelihood is you won't spot when it needs some TLC. Instead, place your most prized houseplants somewhere you'll see them often - on the kitchen windowsill where you can look at them as you wash up, or perhaps on your bedside table. That way you can enjoy their beauty and step in quickly when your plant has a problem. For more houseplant advice visit janeperrone.com Celebrate the best of summer gardening at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, 14 – 17 June at Birmingham’s NEC. Find out more and book tickets today at bbcgardenersworldlive.com
15 April/May 2018
WIN TICKETS 7 14-1
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Gardeners’World Live The Coleshill and Castle Brom Post are giving you the chance to win tickets to Gardeners World Live all you have to do is email Serena at serena.postgroup@outlook.com saying why you would like to go and leave us your contact number and you will go in a draw to be picked out at random. You must be willing to have your name/photo in the paper as a winner.
Vacancies
A selection of some of the roles we are recruiting for:
Permanent Accounts Administrator, Coleshill – Full Time
Skills & Experience Required: Experience of working within accounts, strong administration experience.
Administrator, Coleshill – Full Time
Skills & Experience Required: Good experience of working with Excel, good communication skills.
JOB OF THE MONTH Ecommerce Assistant – Magento Expert, Coleshill Full Time - Permanent Hours – Tuesday – Saturday 9am – 6pm Do you have an excellent working knowledge of Magento and have a passion for ecommerce? Do you have a good level of IT skills including knowledge of SEO, RMS, Photoshop and / or Dreamweaver?
Customer Services Operator, Coleshill – Full Time
Skills & Experience Required: Experienced in dealing with customers on a large scale. Good associated administration skills.
Recruitment Consultant, Coleshill – Part Time
Skills & Experience Required: Recruitment experience is essential
Warehouse Supervisor – Hams Hall – Full Time
Skills & Experience Required: Strong experience of goods in and goods out. FLT Licence and strong organisation skills.
Temporary Admin Support, Coleshill – Temp ongoing.
Skills & Experience Required: General administration skills, filing, emailing and dealing with customers.
Tour Bus Driver, Coleshill (work across the UK) – Ad hoc Temp (possible long-term contracts)
Skills & Experience Required: Must hold a PSV/PCV licence, CPC holder, C1 or C2 licence is essential (Having both licences are desirable) Excellent communicator and flexibility is key to the role
Your role will be to carry out some of the following duties:
Waiters / Waitresses, Near NEC – Ongoing – bookings starting immediately
• P roducing high quality product listings with technically accurate and concise information across all Ecommerce platforms (our own Magento web store, Ebay and Amazon)
FLT Bendi/VNA, Coleshill – Temp-Perm
•O ptimising product listings andinfo@psrecruitmentservices.co.uk webpages to maximise conversion rates904 and traffic01675 597 599 www.psrecruitmentservices.co.uk 07523 5725 •H andling marketing and promotion campaigns across search engines and social media websites •D oing technical writing such as writing product instructions • Take photos and Manipulate images of products using Photoshop & Dreamweaver.
Skills & Experience Required: Good customer service skills & experience serving food & drink.
Skills & Experience Required: Working within a Warehouse environment, who is Health & Safety conscious. FLT Bendi
@PSRecServices / VNA licence
/psrecservices
HGV Drivers – Coleshill & Kingsbury
Skills & Experience Required: HGV driver, with Class 1 or Class 2 licence & Driver CPC
•M onitor all online orders and manage customer email and phone correspondence •M anage email and social media campaigns across all platforms •M onitor and analyse content success • R esearch and respond to competitor activity and pricing to protect and enhance current market share
• Working within other areas of the business as required including face to face, phone sales and distribution. info@psrecruitmentservices.co.uk w.psrecruitmentservices.co.uk 07523 904 5725 Find out more, APPLY NOW!
For more details including salary and job content please contact us on
01675 597 599 / 07523 904 572 or email your CV to info@psrecruitmentservices.co.uk www.psrecruitmentservices.co.uk 01675 597 599
@PSRecServices
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16 April/May 2018
17 April/May 2018
18 April/May 2018
Wicks of Water Orton
Donna Shingler
Donna Shingler established Wicks of Water back in 2016. Her inspiration stemming from the birth of her daughter, her second child, in June 2015. When her daughter was just 12 hours old, Donna and her husband were informed that she had a rare critical cardiac condition. Over the babies first 14 months, she need open heart surgery and lengthy stays at Birmingham Children's Hospital, some for months on end. During this time, Donna's employer also made her redundant. Upon returning home in July 2016, Donna's husband had treated her to everything that she needed to make candles at home. He had decided that she needed a hobby, and Donna totally agrees that on this one he was right! Due to Erin's complex condition it is not safe for paraffin wax to be burnt in the family home, so after some research, Donna
found 100% soy wax, available to purchase in the UK, that had been imported in from the USA. Soy wax is a vegetable based product, that derives from the soybean. It is a natural product, that does not contain any chemicals or toxins that are found in paraffin candles. It gives a wonderful clean burn, and does not produce any soot. Donna started to hand pour candles for her own use, and before long friends and family were asking her to make some for them too. And as they say.... the rest is history... Wicks of Water Orton was born! Today Donna still hand wicks and pours all of her wax products in her home kitchen in the heart of Water Orton! The fragrance oils that Donna uses are of a professional grade, and Donna uses a high percentage to ensure an outstanding scent throw. The oils are paraben free, cruelty free and vegan friendly. Soy wax burns at a lower temperature than paraffin wax, meaning that the burn time
is much longer. The 200g container candles in the range burn for well over 30 hours. Soy wax also gives an amazing burn pool, which will fill a room (or house in some cases!) with wonderfully warming fragrance. In 2017 Donna extended her range to soy wax melts too, offering gift options with burners too. In 2018 Wicks of Water Orton has had a huge rebrand, seeing new jars, fragrances and a new logo even too. Throughout this year Donna is developing a range of Reed Diffuser Set's, and is also hoping to launch her website for Christmas 2018 too! With a Synergy Range, Pure Range, Fruity Range and even a Tipsy Range - there are currently 16 fragrances to choose from. Choosing a candle fragrance, can be such a personal thing, but Donna has ensured that her range offers something for everyone. From Gin & Tonic, right through to Baby Powder, and everything in between. The candle industry has seen a dramatic rise
over the last few years, with thanks to luxury candle brands, and also budget supermarkets, all re-vamping their offerings in the marketplace. Consumers do not just buy a candle, they buy an experience. They want to choose a fragrance that's will be evocative of a time in their life, or a mood they are seeking, whether that be relaxation or a cosy night in. There is the appeal to fill our homes with pleasant smells, and memories conjured by fragrances. Wicks of Water Orton can be found across all social media... Facebook - www.facebook.com/ wicksofwaterortoncandlesandmelts Twitter - @wicksfwater Instagram - @wicksofwaterorton Donna often books tables at local craft fayres and events. Head on over and follow Donna, to see when she is next popping up within the community.
19 April/May 2018
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for as little as £35 in one paper or £60 in both publications Contact: serena.postgroup@outlook.com For more information
Greens Tree Service Pollarding trees – “Communication was brilliant, we arranged a date for a quotation, Danny was on time, he was very friendly and helpful with information. On the day of the job it had been snowing and Danny kept me informed he was still coming. Danny was on time and did an amazing job. Professional, safe, tidy, I will be using again. Thanks Danny.” Checkatrade customer, Sutton Coldfield
20 April/May 2018
RESIDENTS
✭✭✭✭✭✭
WE NEED
YOU!
Give us your voice send stories, thoughts and pictures of your local area. Share your experiences with us and help us cover whats important too you. Contact: serena.postgroup@outlook.com
21 April/May 2018
Ediblelinks
The recent success of the Honesty shops organised and held at the town hall has brought Ediblelinks into our community here in Coleshill. I have been enthusing about the wider achievements and realised that we needed to share the goals, achievements and challenges that they face and communicate how we can get involved and give support. The partnership between Ediblelinks, North Warwickshire Borough Council and Nuneaton & Bedworth Healthy Living Network, is an award-winning trio! Together, they redistribute fresh food and other essentials to people who need it in North Warwickshire. They're reducing food poverty for local people through emergency food parcels, breakfast and after-school clubs in 38 schools, and food support for over 150 community groups. Over the last 12 months, Ediblelinks has redistributed over 290 tonnes of food. Access to good, nutritious food eases financial pressure and is helping North Warwickshire thrive. It’s is fantastic that the efforts have not gone unnoticed, and Ediblelinks
just won the LGC Award for Best Public Private Partnership – their smiles say it all. Ediblelinks works out of a unit in Abeles Way, Atherstone, staffed predominantly through a team of volunteers and they are always in need of more. Through these volunteers they collect food from Ocado that would otherwise be wasted; both food and other products that are either surplus or as a result of failed deliveries. This is then sorted at the Abeles way unit to be used in a multitude of ways. Food bank parcels are made up on site by volunteer shoppers, orders are made up for community groups and roll cages are filled full of products to go to honesty shops. The Community Cafes and volunteer groups offer a variety of events; including home cooked meals in community centres and village halls to providing a hot and healthy meal, support and friendship to all who come through the door. The first honesty shop was a great success here in Coleshill; the second even more so but speaking locally to residents to see whether they went along, many people said that they didn’t as they didn’t think it would be for them. The honesty shops have an important role to play in delivering the charities aims in supporting those who are in need. It’s a vital method of fund raising, the honesty shops support the wider distribution of food and enable the charity to continue their work. The honesty shops are for all, some of the products in the honesty shops cannot be distributed in other ways for various reasons and take up valuable space. Unfortunately this can lead to products being sent back to Ocado and can mean that they end up as waste or in landfill. Obviously we would all rather see everything benefit someone; whether it be though the Foodbank, a community group, school or playgroup or though funds raised by honesty shops. If you would like to know more about the fantastic work that is done or would like to be a volunteer; please get in contact with Sonya Johnson at Ediblelinks 01827 718323
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22 April/May 2018
CASPER The Coleshill Art Space Project - Everyone Respects CASPER Press Update - April 2018 Delivery Group and Art Selected The Delivery Group is made up of Mayor, Councillor Tony Battle, in the Chair and representatives from the Town Council, Parish Church, a local artist, the Civic Society, the Coleshill School, Love Coleshill and the Coleshill Post. The Delivery Group has agreed to work with Peter Walker, who is the Artist in Residence at Lichfield Cathedral. He specialises in sculpting in hard metal, such as bronze. There is now £18,000 in an account which is separate to the Town Council’s finances, in a 2-month notice account that is earning a little interest.
We already have some people offering to be tour guides. However, again, please get in touch with Colin or Megan as below if you know someone wanting to get involved as a tour guide on a voluntary or small fee basis. The idea would be that the tour detail would be provided to the guides as a paged file but that it would be improved over time by familiarity and evolution!
Launch Event /Lighting Show Peter Walker has a separate light show business (Luxmuralis) and has offered a free light show as part of the sculpture promotion. His light business has had shows onto the side of Lichfield Cathedral and this can be used in Coleshill to describe its heritage, history and artistic themes. He has looked at projecting onto the Coleshill School but that has too much glass to would not have the full effect. We have agreement, though, from Rev. Nick Parker at the Parish Church for the light show to be projected onto the bell tower section, from the direction of the Croft. It is on a Saturday night and with refreshments on sale so please put 22 September 2018 in your diary. The most exciting matter is the sculpture may be ready to be unveiled earlier that day! That would allow the unveiling while the shops were open, more people around during the day and then staying for a light show the same evening. If that is too tight, the light show could still be possible on 22 September but if the production of the sculpture gets delayed into the winter months, it might be that the unveiling has to be on a Saturday in early spring 2019.
Peter Walker and the Delivery Group are jointly filling out a web application for up to £12,500 further funding from the Arts Council. It will take until the end of April to complete the application and then as much as 6 weeks to be assessed. Peter is confident of some funding but the £12,500 applied for is a maximum based on 60:40 matching criteria of current funding to new. We might get a little of this sum but it is part of - Bigger, Brighter, Better! This has been described in a previous edition of the Coleshill Post: we want it Big to be noticed, the Brightest design and the Best materials.
Design and Location The design theme is still not finalised but there are some draft ideas now. Going back to the end of 2017, the school children were keen on the circus elephant idea, the Town Council liked the tea /John Sumner theme and the social media voting was in favour of the stagecoach /highwayman theme. The sculptor will work on one (or possibly a combination of all three) of these themes. The Peter Walker team are discussing designs with the foundry he uses, to best allow a good height and length (ideally 4-7 feet in height for the actual bronze sculpture, on top of a 4 feet height of corten steel as the base). The base will be wedged into concrete such that it cannot be toppled. Bronze and corten steel are extremely difficult to mark or burn so will be vandal proof. The sculptor is keen on the High Street site, as visitors could stop and walk up to or touch it, rather than drive by. The Borough Council has agreed the site can be leased to the project on a peppercorn rent. If the base work costs can be donated or subsidised by a builder, it will leave more of the budget for a greater volume of bronze and a more impressive sculpture. For any building company that can help, it would be in return for what would represent a long-term recognition on a plaque. If interested, please contact Colin or Megan as below.
Lighting Commemoration of the action on the Somme
Light show in Limburg, Germany
Lightshow onto Lichfield Cathedral
Peter Walker, sculptor
Green & Yellow Tourism Trail As described above, the High Street site location for the main sculpture will have two (or possibly three) of the town’s preferred themes. The Delivery Group are keen on the idea of a Green and Yellow dresses guide taking a Tourism Trail Tour, with markers which depict other points of the town’s heritage. There is support for producing these markers by Peter Walker (for small, bronze shapes), Daniel Green (for wood sculptures) and Daffyd Jones (of Tame Valley Wetlands, who has located some trail guideposts already that might be suitable for adaptation). Therefore, there could be a small stagecoach wheel, teacup, elephant, Roman centurion, highwayman mask, etc. all dotted around a 2-mile circuit of the town. We will need to seek landowners’ permissions. We are also looking at whether each of these heritage markers could be sponsored, so again, get in touch if interested. Both Warwickshire County Council’s Town’s Network and Peter Walker have suggested a town trail that was educational and /or supporting heritage might attract funding (e.g. Heritage Lottery Fund) and so this part of the CASPER project will potentially be self-financing. The Delivery Group are keen to trial this anyway, even if there is no HLF funding! Ideally a rota of 3-4 Green and Yellow Guides would be needed which might be in exchange for tips or a small fee. For example, if just 10 people took the tour and paid £5 each, that would cover the guide’s fee, teas and coffees at Town Hall and possibly a small contribution to CASPER funds. Green & Yellow are the guides colours as they are seen in the town (e.g. bus shelters, Town Council crest, etc).
Further help Further practical help on any of this above is welcomed. Please note that we still want fund donations to CASPER (so the project is Bigger, Better, Brighter). Any donations can be taken via the Town Council offices now and do not suffer any crowd funder fees. Colin Greatorex /Megan Davies 01675 463326
23 April/May 2018
Bike4Life riders will be flying free at festival Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s long term corporate partner, M6 toll, will be granting free passage to all motorbikes participating in Bike4Life on Sunday 22nd April. Roadchef Norton Canes are also offering all bikers a bacon or sausage sandwich with medium hot drink from Fresh Food Café for only £5, with £1 from each transaction going to Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. 3,500 motorcyclists are due to take part in the 23mile route, which starts at Meole Brace in Shrewsbury, and ending at the Bike4Life festival at RAF Cosford in Shrewsbury, with a range of stalls waiting to entertain both riders and visitors. Last year, M6toll provided the same generous offer, helping bikers raise a staggering £73,800 for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. James Hodson, director of motorway operations and facilities for M6toll, said: “Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is responsible for amazing life-saving work that takes place across the Midlands. We have a great relationship with the charity, and will always look to support them where possible.”
Sofia Voutianitis, corporate partnerships manager for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “It’s relationships like this that ensures we can raise as much money as possible for our cause, and keep Midlands Air Ambulance Charity operating and saving lives. Bike4Life is a fantastic day out for thousands of people, and it’s through support from organisations like M6toll that we can hold such a brilliant event.” Bikers looking to take advantage of the offer will be asked on the day to follow the directional signage when approaching the M6toll, and use the Wide Load Lanes at the far left at all plazas. Redemption of the offer at Fresh Food Café can be obtained via the customer producing their Bike4Life ticket at the till point. Keep up to date with Bike4Life Festival on social media by following us on Facebook and Twitter. For more information about the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and how to support the organisation in other ways, please contact the team on 0800 8 40 20 40 or visit: www.midlandsairambulance.com
24 April/May 2018
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I would like to thank Chris from Blue Rose so much for the support and kindness throughtout the process of choosing flowers for our Moms funeral. All the family commented on how beautiful the flowers where. You did us proud Chris and I highly recommend anyone looking to buy flowers for a loved one who has passed to use you. Serena Smith
25 April/May 2018
PIRATE’S PANTRY RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
Ingredients: • 1.5 litres good chicken stock • 4 large chicken thigh fillets • 1 Large Onion, finely diced • 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
One of the best things of working in a multicultural environment is you get insights into family recipes from around the world. In the late 1990s I was given a basic recipe for risotto which, over time, I have corrupted and adapted. The key to this particular favourite is the different mushroom flavours so it is easily made vegetarian by using a vegetable stock and replacing the chicken with asparagus spears gently charred on a griddle.
Place the dried Porcini mushrooms in a bowl and add enough boiling water to just cover them. Let them steep until towards the end of the cooking. In a heavy bottomed very large pan, add the mushrooms to the truffle oil and melted butter. Sauté the mushrooms until browned. Remove the mushrooms and place in a bowl, put to one side for use later. Keep the remaining oil and butter in the pan and add the garlic and onions. Stir continuously and, as the onions begin to soften add the rice. Keep the rice moving until it becomes translucent and the grains crack slightly. Remove the cooked thighs and place to one side. Take a ladle full of stock and add to the rice. Keep Place the stock in a large pan with the chicken stirring as the liquid is absorbed into the rice, thighs, bring to a boil and poach the thighs until occasionally adding more stock. Watch for the rice cooked through. becoming plump and cooked, test it occasionally as you
want the finished dish to have rice with a slight bite to it. At this stage add the liquor from the dried mushrooms, this adds a deep warmth to the colour of the risotto. Stir until the risotto is not swimming in liquid. Chop the Porcini mushrooms and chicken thighs, stir into the risotto with the chestnut mushrooms we put to one side earlier. Add the creme fraiche and Parmigiano Reggiano and stir until fully incorporated. Serve in bowls with fresh garlic bread. Garnish with your choice of sautéed cubetti di pancetta, mini broccoli florets and/or herbs. If you’re feeling cheeky add a Parmesan crisp just before serving.
• 300g Arborio Rice • 200g Chestnut Mushrooms, destalked and cubed • 40g Dried Porcini Mushrooms • 100g parmigiano reggiano, finely grated • 1 tablespoon creme fraiche • 1 tablespoon truffle oil • 50g salted butter
Brits are leaving themselves dangerlously unprotected when taking their gadgets on holiday • Holidaymakers jetting off over the school holidays will carry on average £2,300 of gadgets in their luggage • Most popular gadgets are smartphones, electronic readers, laptops, smart watches, MP3 players and digital cameras • Scottish families take the most possessions, averaging six devices, two more than travellers from Northern Ireland, Yorkshire and the East Midlands • However, most travel insurance policies do not cover gadgets as standard UK holidaymakers chasing the sun over the school holidays will be jetting off with on average £2,300 in their luggage, amounting to an average of five gadgets per family. Each family member could be carrying up to two devices in their pockets including popular gadgets such as smartphones, electronic readers, laptops, wearable tech such as smart watches, music players and digital cameras.
Travel Insurance Explained (TIE) has surveyed 5,000 UK travellers* and found that 62% will take a device on holiday, and will travel with multiple devices. Younger travellers will take more gadgets on holiday though the survey found there are no differences between men and women – both genders are keen to have technology at their fingertips. Regionally there are some distinct differences in tech savvy travellers. The Scottish will take the most possessions on holiday, averaging around six devices, which is higher than those travelling from,
Northern Ireland, Yorkshire and the East Midlands. However, as Fiona Macrae, head of Travel Insurance Explained (TIE) says, many travel insurance policies do not cover gadgets as standard: “UK travellers are carrying more technology on holiday than ever before, so they need to ensure that there is adequate cover under their policy, as not all insurers provide gadget cover. Many policies specifically exclude mobile phones, whilst others may offer very low levels of cover, often £500 or less, and/or policies with a high excess.
“Customers should also be aware that there may be limitations regarding the age of the gadget and some providers will only cover gadgets up to 24 months old but others cover gadgets up to 48 months old. We always advise customers to check cover limits, exclusions and the excess amount, before buying their policy to ensure they are not disappointed should they have to claim. * The survey of 5000 British travellers was carried out by FWD research during March 2018
26 April/May 2018
Is Coleshill home to the UK’s best home office?
Have you styled your home office to perfection? Whether it be a minimalistic organised approach or a quirky creative design, we want to see how the people of Coleshill work best. Self storage company, Space Station, is running a competition to find the UK’s best home office. From inventive storage creations to feature walls, personalising your home office can help to unleash
creativity and boost morale upon the most gruelling days at work. Space Station is looking for members of the public to submit a photo of their home office with a few words about where their inspiration came from. The winner will receive a £100 Not on the Highstreet voucher and a chance for your interior magic to feature in the UK’s best home office roundup.
Vlatka Lake, Marketing Director at Space Station, said: “With more and more adults going freelance or starting businesses from home, we want to look at the best way to create a productive and appealing office space that is good to work from. “If you think your workspace could do with a spring makeover before you submit your entry, some popular characteristics include
plants and fairy lights. Plants are often used to decorate workspaces, brightening up the desk and they are also thought to boost productivity. Fairy lights give an enchanted feel to the home office, as a relaxed environment helps concentration. “We look forward to seeing all the great home offices around the country!”
For full T&Cs and to enter the competition, go to: www.space-station.co.uk/blog/ the-search-for-the-uk-s-best-home-offices. For more information contact: Will Dale (will.dale@jaywingpr.com), Mica McDonald (mica.mcdonald@jaywingpr.com) or call 0113 323 5797
Water Orton Primary School says goodbye to Steve, Sue and Chris In February caretaker Steve Shergold left for pastures new, also at the end of March cleaner Sue Mansell retired after 28 years of service followed shortly by fellow cleaner Chris Mytton who is also retiring after 7 years service. Good luck and best wishes to them all for the future!
Left to right: Elaine Jeys, Chris Mytton, Steve Shergold, Sue Mansell, Karen Smith
27 April/May 2018
Coleshill WI April Meeting At our April meeting we enjoyed a talk and demonstration from Water Orton horticultural expert Harold Williams – always known as ‘H’ on how to grow and take cuttings from fuchsias. He demystified the whole process, giving advice on preparing the cuttings pot, mixing basic compost with a little pearlite and lightly watering it. He then showed us how to snap off the plant stem with just the top four leaves on it, and push this into the prepared compost before placing the pot to propagate in a large glass jar out of the sun. He gave useful tips on competing successfully in horticultural shows and demonstrated how to line a semi-circular metal basket with black plastic and to fill it with compost for growing new young plants on a wall out of doors. Members also admired his display of standard fuchsias, each supported with a long stake, as well as Bonsai fuchsias, the first time most of us had seen them grown this way. H‘s wife Ann judged the competition for a home-made paper flower, placing our President Elaine Partridge first for her iridescent ‘chrysanthemum’ and Sally Smith’s giant ‘hydrangea’ second. Gill Tyers was third. Among the events planned for the Centenary of the Warwickshire WI Federation this year is a day-trip to Lincoln, organised by Johnson’s Coaches, on July 30th for any WI member in the county. Coaches for this area’s members will be going from Coleshill School which is offering free parking.
Coleshill WI is running a special Pudding Evening, open to everyone, from 7pm on August 14th at the Town Hall. Our members will be providing a variety of homemade cold puddings for guests to sample and the evening includes a glass of wine or soft drink. Tickets are £5 and reservations should be made through members by July 31st. More details nearer the time. After refreshments, our President Elaine Partridge proudly described her exciting Inaugural Day as this year’s Lady Captain of Maxstoke Park Golf Club, during which she hosted a Golf event for dozens of players and supporters. We admired her splendid black jacket with the Club’s crest worked in gold, red and white and the gold badge presented to her by the outgoing Lady Captain. Elaine’s Inaugural Day coincided with our Group Meeting at which we welcomed WI members from Coleshill, Wishaw and Curdworth. Everyone enjoyed Dave Moylan’s one-man variety show and the homebaked refreshments provided by Coleshill Country market which also held a stall there. We were honoured that Lynne Stubbings, the WI’s National Chair and a member of the Wishaw Institute plus Anne BuftonMcCoy, the newly elected Chair of the Warwickshire Federation both attended the meeting. At our next meeting on May 8th we will discuss this year’s National Federation of WIs’ Resolution, “Mental Health Matters”. All members are being urged to recognise the importance of parity between mental and physical health, to make it as acceptable to talk about mental illness as much as physical and to lobby government for better support for it. The competition is for a Poem for May Day and our Social Time entertainment will be a variety of pub games and quizzes. Visitors welcome as always.
28 April/May 2018
TIMETABLE MONDAY
10:00am - 1:00pm Housing Benefit forms General Info & Support Energy Deals 10.00am - 12.00pm P3 Floating Support Service Benefits, Debt, Housing, Advice and Guidance
10:00am - 12:00pm Carers Trust Every 1st & 3rd Monday of the month. Advice & Guidance for Carers only.
At The HUB on Mon 21st May and Monday 4th May
Upstairs in the Town Hall
Tuesday 10:00—1:00 Improve your confidence, brush up your skills and succeed! Get help with your CV and learn how to use Universal Job Match and other Job Sites.
MEMORY CAFE and their carers Robert Lloyd Room, Water Orton Church
1.30 - 4.00pm 1st Friday of the month
The Next Café is on Friday 4th May
Why not join our Computer Club and improve your IT skills?
TUESDAY
10:00am - 1:00pm JOB CLUB Help with CV’s and Job Seeking
2:00pm - 4:00pm U3A Family History Class Contact for dates
WEDNESDAY
10:00am - 1:00pm Finance, Pensions, General Info & Support. SSAFA Consumer
THURSDAY
10:00am - 1:00pm General Computer Use & Signposting
megan@coleshilltowncouncil.gov.uk
Tel: 01675 463 326
Computer Club
OUTREACH COMMUNITY GROUPS
Friday 29th June
10.00am - 1.00pm
Struggling to keep up with computers and the internet?
Get Connected
Coleshill Town Hall High St, Coleshill
Friday 10.00—12.00 The Coleshill Hub @The Town Hall
B46 3BG
helen@coleshilltowncouncil.gov.uk
01675 463 326
Sally.Evans@sw�.nhs.uk
02476 322 048
FRIDAY
10.00am - 12.00pm COMPUTER CLUB
Learn about Online Banking, Email, Online Shopping, how to get cheaper energy deals and much more, in a relaxed and sociable environment.
Friendly Help and Support Call 01675 463 326 or come up to the Hub to talk
WEDNESDAY
10:30am - 12:30pm ART GROUP Old Market Hall
THURSDAY
10:00am - 12:00pm WALKING GROUP Old Market Hall 1st Thurs of Month
FRIDAY
1:30pm - 4:00pm MEMORY CAFÉ 1st Friday Month Water Orton Church, Robert Lloyd Room
Call 01675 463 326 Visit Coleshill Community Hub @ Coleshill Town Hall www.coleshillhub.co.uk
29 April/May 2018
GROUNDSPERSON REQUIRED Water Orton Parrish Council wish to appointment a grounds/ handyperson to assist with various tasks in and around the village as deemed suitable by the Parrish council. If you are interested please contact: Ralph Coldrick - rcoldrick@btinternet.com Keith Hodkinson - Cllr.keith.hodkinson@wopc.org
07859 039414 07449 781107
Where the hours of work, job role and rates of pay will be discussed.
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30 April/May 2018
BOTH
Wasps Sam Jones announce retirement It is with great sadness that Wasps announce the enforced retirement of Sam Jones. The decision has been taken based on medical advice from a leading consultant. The 26-year-old suffered an ankle dislocation while training with England prior to the 2016 autumn international series. This caused significant additional damage including a fracture of the fibular bone, disruption of the ligaments joining the main bones of the ankle, a rupture of the medial ligament plus significant damage to ankle cartilage. After a series of operations, he has worked tirelessly in an attempt to return to action. However, after making several abortive attempts, the hard-working back-rower has finally been forced to concede defeat and bring his playing career to an end. Having worked his way through Wasps’ academy and represented England at under 16 and 18 level, Sam made his senior debut against Newport Gwent Dragons in December 2010. He went on to appear alongside Elliot Daly, Joe Launchbury, Dan Robson and Christian Wade in the 2011 under 20 World Cup final, then in subsequent years to earn selection for England Saxons prior to his call-up for the senior squad in 2016. Jones broke into Wasps’ senior side on a regular basis in 2011 and has remained there ever since, amassing 118 appearances including a number as captain.
Director of rugby Dai Young said: “It’s awful news. Being a Director of Rugby for 16 years, unfortunately it’s not the first time I’ve known a player retire through an injury, but Sam’s situation has really hit me hard. “When I came into the club we had a lot of retirements and injuries. We needed someone to step up and lead from the front and Sam Jones was that man. He was only a young man, but was someone I could rely on - he’s been a rock for me throughout my tenure at Wasps. “Not only is he a fantastic rugby player, but he is a fantastic bloke as well. His maturity and work ethic on the field shone off it as well. “His physicality in everything he did on the field really stood out. He was destined to be a Wasps legend and a club captain and I’m sure those things would have led to many England caps. “Whatever Sam turns his hand to, I’m sure he will make a success of it. Hopefully he’s not going to be a stranger and we will see plenty of him – in the meantime I’d like to thank him for all the support he’s given me and wish him all the best for his future.”
Sam Jones said: “Unfortunately, the injury was a complicated one and my rehab wasn’t progressing the way we wanted, with multiple set-backs along the way. “I’ve therefore reluctantly had to listen to medical advice and retire from rugby. The decision was
made for me, which was tough to hear. But it's a decision that I understand is in my best interests. “I’d like to thank the players who have kept me going through this long spell. Being injured can be extremely difficult, but having them around has made the process a lot easier to cope with. “I must also thank the medical and conditioning staff at Wasps who have invested time in trying to mend me. It was an unenviable task and I’m sure they won’t be too sorry to see the back of me! “And I am really grateful to the countless people who have sent well-wishes and support over the last 18 months or so. I’m sorry the outcome wasn’t what we all hoped for. “It’s been great to be involved with Wasps for such a long time, and to play a very small part in a historic chapter for the club. Injuries happen in rugby and I’m fortunate that I got to play for as long as I did. “For me, getting selected for England based on my club form was a huge achievement and I’m proud that was my last contribution to the game. “Looking back, highlights were captaining Wasps in the London double-header at Twickenham, surviving relegation in my first full season and playing for the Barbarians against the British and Irish Lions in Hong Kong. “I gave it everything and don’t have any regrets from my time playing. I’ve made mates and memories for life. Thanks to all those who helped me along the way and most importantly my friends
and family for their constant support. “I can now switch focus to the future, whatever that holds, which is exciting and daunting in equal measure.
Club captain Joe Launchbury said: “Hearing the news of Sam’s retirement is very difficult for our whole squad. “Everyone associated with Wasps knows what a talented player he is and in the months leading up to his injury a wider audience was becoming aware of this. “No injury comes at a good time, but this is especially cruel as it has prevented Sam reaching the top of the game, where he was destined to go. “Jonesy is a hugely popular and respected member of the dressing room who can always be relied upon to raise morale. He is the epitome of a team man. “Sam and I came through the academy at Wasps together and have since shared some amazing memories on and off the field at a club that means a lot to both of us. He is one of the first people I turn to for advice and one of my closest mates. “I’m sure Sam, his partner Liv and family, who have been huge supporters of his career, will remain a part of the Wasps family. We all wish them every happiness in their next chapter.”
31 April/May 2018
4 Games to go and promotion still in sight! With just four league games to go Coleshill still
campaign has been extended until Saturday 5th
have a chance of promotion. The top TWO in
May and it is so tight that it may well go to that
the league get promotion this season and with
last week-end.
Bromsgrove Sporting securing the title this week,
Coleshill still have a League Cup Semi Final to look
there is just one place up for grabs. Highgate
forward to on Bank Holiday Monday 7th May on the
United currently sit in the second spot, one
neutral ground of Brocton. But they still don't know their
point above Coleshill but suffered a heavy defeat
opponents as the Quarter Final tie between Heanor Town
this week to Worcester. 4th placed Worcester
and South Normanton Athletic is not due to be played
are also still in with a chance but they lie four
until the 1st May. Should the Colemen reach the Final, it
points behind Gate and have played a game more.
will be played on Tuesday 15th May at the Bescot Stadium,
Due to the long, wet and cold winter, the league
home of Walsall FC.
League Table
Coleshill Town Football Club Fixtures Thursday 26th April Away to Heanor Town (Nottingham)
Coleshill Town Football Club March match reports
Saturday 7th April Coleshill Town 2 v 2 Shepshed Dynamo Two first half goals from Danny Tymon and Ryan Edmunds put Coleshill in the driving seat but a lacklustre second half allowed the
19.45 Kick Off.
Saturday 28th April Away to Coventry Sphinx. 3pm Kick Off
visitors to claw themselves back into the game. At this stage of the
Tuesday 1st May
season a draw isn't enough..
Away to Rocester (Staffordshire). 19.45 Kick Off.
Saturday 14th April
Saturday 5th May
Tuesday 27th March
Westfields (Hereford) 1 v 1 Coleshill Town
Away to Shawbury United. (Ludlow Shropshire)
Highgate United 2 v 0 Coleshill Town
still almost did enough for the points. Matt Gardner put Coleshill
By Alan Beckett
Another disappointing performance from the Colemen but they
The "Old Enemy" got the upper hand in this Promotion Chasing ahead midway through the second half but a defensive mix-up clash. After a goalless first half Gate scored two to take the points in a allowed the home team to equalise and it's just two points in four games. Westfields' celebrations in denying Coleshill three points, subdued performance by Coleshill. and possible promotion was over the top.Â
Monday 2nd April Coleshill Town 2 v 4 Bromsgrove Sporting Champions elect Bromsgrove got revenge for the 4-0 hammering
Saturday 21st April
before Coleshill woke up and gave it a go. Liam Molesworth and Reece
This game just about summed up Coleshill's season. Average in
Matt Gardner scored on 58 minutes and the team breathed a sigh of
relief and then played some of the best football seen at Pack Meadow
for years. Matt Gardner completed a hat-trick, Reece Leek, Liam Leek scored to make for a better looking scoreline but the title chase is Molesworth, Joe Smith and Ryan Edmunds all scored with the last almost over.
Monday 7th May League Cup Semi Final at Brocton. 3pm Kick Off. Opponents Heanor Town or South Normanton Athletic.
Coleshill Town 7 v 0 Rocester
Coleshill gave them just a couple of weeks previous. Coleshill started the first half and brilliant in the second. Rocester are bottom of well and should have been in front but Sporting hit back with three the league and will be relegated but matched Coleshill for an hour. first half goals. It took another Sporting goal early in the second half
3pm Kick Off
one a contender for Goal Of The Season.
TO BE ARRANGED: Polymac League Cup Semi Final. This will be after the League games are finished. Final to be played at Bescot Stadium Walsall, Tuesday 15th May.
Come in for your new SPRING look