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Issue #14 - August/September 2014 Published in Coleshill, North Warks. The Coleshill Post @ColeshillPost
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COLESHILL SCHOOL RESULTS SUCCESS MORRISONS CHARITY CYCLE SEE PAGE 5
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The largest public meeting in a generation • Plans for Daw Mill Colliery stir public emotions • Several hundred attend heated meeting
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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Threat of HGV’s in the town, unites people and main parties PICTURES BY: ADRIANJONESPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
The Coleshill Post The Panel: Including former MP Mike O’Brien QC, Cllr Harry Taylor and Cllr Peter Fowler. Coleshill Town Cllr John Truman tells a packed Town Hall about historic traffic surveys
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The quality of the Transport Assessment for the proposed business park at the former Daw Mill Colliery site was challenged at a public meeting in Coleshill Town Hall on Thursday 14 th August. The meeting was held to protest the likelihood that HGV’s will go through the town if the planning application is granted for the business park. Cllr Kirsteen Wootton pointed out that the Assessment submitted by the owners Haworth Estates did not even mention the key bottleneck likely to face HGV’s at the Green Man Crossroads in the town. Mike O’Brien supported Cllr Wootton’s view that the Transport Assessment was poor and called on county council transport officials to challenge it when they met Haworth Estates next week. If the
Transport assessment was inadequate the Council should say that and the application should be rejected. About 170 people attended the meeting to hear a cross party panel including former Labour MP Mike O’Brien, Conservative Cllr Peter Fowler, as well as the Transport Planning Officer for the county council and a former police officer launch a campaign to stop the planning application being granted. The meeting had been called by Cllr Harry Taylor, who chaired it. Over Whitacre Parish Council had called a similar meeting two days before at the Community Centre in Nether Whitacre to kick start the campaign for people in the villages near to Daw Mill. Cllr Harry Taylor who said, “There is now a real head of steam building against the proposal for
PLEASE NOTE: The views expressed in our contributors articles are not the views of The Coleshill Post. They are the views of the author of each article.
Coleshill School term times and teacher training days Autumn Term 2014
Spring Term 2015
Starts Tuesday 2nd September
Starts Tuesday Starts Tuesday 6th January 14th April
Half Term Monday 27th October To Friday 31st October
Half Term Monday 16th February To Friday 20th February
Half Term Monday 25th May To Friday 29th May
Ends Friday 19th December
Ends Friday 27th March
Ends Friday 17th July
(Year 7 and Sixth Form)
Summer Term 2014
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HGV’s. Although Labour councillors called this meeting; there was no party politics involved. Mike O’Brien rightly suggested we should reach across party lines to form a united front with local Conservative Cllr Peter Fowler, so that the whole community has united against the threat of hundreds of HGV’s blighting our town. Mike and Peter had exactly the same message: we don’t want these HGV’s coming through Coleshill. I was also delighted that a number of Borough Councillors from other areas, including the North Warwickshire Mayor Cllr Ray Sweet came to listen to what local people had to say. They will decide on the application later this year. “Coleshill will fight the HGV proposal. We are not against a business park but we are against any HGV’s.”
May Day: Monday 4th May 2015 is a public holiday. Teacher Training Days 2014-2015: • 1 September 2014 • 24 October 2014 • 5 December 2014 • 5 January 2015 • 13 April 2015
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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A public meeting held on 12th August at Nether Whitacre Parish Hall was one of the largest that the Borough of North Warwickshire has seen in a generation. Over 700 people attended the meeting organised by Over Whitacre Parish Council to discuss a planning application submitted by Harworh Estates, owners of the Daw Mill Colliery site near Arley.
A panel chaired by Cllr Phil Mason, Chairman of Over Whitacre Parish Council, included Mike O’Brien QC, Marcus Jones MP and Jeff Brown, Chief Planning officer NWBC. Harworth Estates and Dan Byles MP were invited but did not attend. The planning application by Harworth Estates includes a change of use to B1, B2 and B8. This includes the possibility to create a container base utilising the existing rail head at the site to bring in 500 containers a day, creating a demand for 1000 HGV movements in and out of the site. One positive claim from the applicants is the creation of 1500 jobs at the site. Mike O’Brien told a packed meeting: “We want jobs, but not at any price. This is too high a price to pay for jobs if hundreds – and perhaps as many as 1000 HGV container lorries – end up going through unsuitable narrow country lanes and villages like Shustoke, Nether Whitacre, Fillongley, Corley and Coleshill creating a disturbance and risks of accidents for local people 24 hours a day 7 days a week.” He said the key concern was the HGV’s and that the Council should consider whether there was a need for another freight terminal in the area or whether the better use would be a business park with hi-tech jobs, light industry and offices. “We want to create jobs but the right kind of jobs for this site.” He also raised a planning consent was granted to the former mine owners RJB Mining on 26 November 1996 which required them to return it to the Green Belt. He said this might give
local councils more “clout” in deciding exactly kind of businesses would use the site. Council Planning Officer Jeff Brown told the meeting that this was an outline application and that Harworth Estates had applied for “flexible planning consent” but they had not said which businesses they had on the site. The application would have to be considered under the governments new National Planning Policy Guidance and depending on what happened, the application might be finally determined by the Secretary of State after a public planning inquiry. Marcus Jones MP for Nuneaton, Arley and Over Whitacre gave his views on the proposal: “At the moment, the Borough Council have an excellent opportunity to be able to support local residents. My fear is that if the Borough Council does grant planning permission in its current form, the flexible nature of the application means that there is no guarantee over what the site could be used for, or how many jobs could be created or what the impact will be on local infrastructure. “There could even be a worst-of-allworlds scenario where very few jobs are created, but huge numbers of heavy goods vehicles would access the site from country roads which currently struggle to cope with the amount of heavy goods traffic using them. There are also several very dangerous junctions, including the one at Furnace End which could be made worse if planners made the wrong decision. “Planning decisions made about this site need to be carefully considered to make sure that the site is used appropriately to create new jobs, but which takes into account the fact that the site is not located next to a motorway, as is the case on a number of local ex-coalmining sites where distribution hubs have been created.” Tricia Wildbore told the panel “I don’t think anybody in this room is against development, but we are against a development that is unsuit-
able for this site.” There was strong criticism about the quality of the Transport Assessment document offered by Harworth Estates and county council officers, who also attended the meeting, said that they would meet Harworth Estates next Monday to talk about the document. The chairman, Cllr Phil Mason said it was an inadequate document. Steve Gardner from Fillongley, expressed concern about the impact on the cross roads and narrow road through his village. Mike O’Brien drew laughter by quoting from the transport assessment provided by Harworth Estates. The document said, “The redevelopment of the site would not lead to an increase in traffic on the local highway network. There would be no adverse impacts arising from the development proposal. However, while the college we traffic has been absent from the local highway network local residents may have perceived improve conditions and therefore the reintroduction of traffic may be perceived negatively.” Mike O’Brien said that, “So now we know, they think it’s all in our imagination.” He criticised the document for failing to deal with the problems in Fillongley, the narrow right-hand bend at the Griffin Inn near Shustoke all the “Green Man” cross roads in Coleshill. Chairman of Over Whitacre Parish Council Cllr Phil Mason added: ” I would like to thank everyone who attended our packed meeting at Nether Whitacre on Tuesday evening. I had already guessed that this was an emotive subject but even I didn’t realise just how deep the feeling was running in people from such a wide area. This was a unique opportunity for our Parliamentary representatives and Council Officers to assess the opposition to this very poorly thought out and impractical scheme and hopefully bring about a satisfactory outcome acceptable to all.”
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Report exposes impact of Police cut-backs in Warwickshire The impact of cuts in police numbers since 2010 on victims of crime in Warwickshire has been exposed in a new report by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC).
Warwickshire Police has lost 1 in 5 officers since David Cameron became Prime Minister. The HMIC report found that Warwickshire Police were the worst at responding to incidents involving vehicle theft, responding to only 1 in 3 car theft reports. When it came to theft from inside a vehicle, Warwickshire police responded to less than 1 report in 10 whereas Durham police forces attended between 99% and 98% of crimes relating to vehicles. Attendance rates at other crime scenes varied widely between forces from 39% in Warwickshire. This means that nearly two-thirds of crime scenes in Warwickshire were not attended by a police officer. The worst in the country. The HMIC report warned of a postcode lottery on investigating crime and identified Warwickshire as having the worst postcode for investigations. It said that some high-volume offences such as vehicle crime are "on the verge of being decriminalised" by police forces which have given up investigat-
ing them. The Inspector of Constabulary, Roger Baker, who led the inspection, said: "It's more a mind set that we no longer deal with these things. And effectively what's happened is a number of crimes are on the verge of being decriminalised. "So it's not the fault of the individual staff, it's a mind set thing that's crept in to policing to say 'we've almost given up'." This follows recent statistics that hit the headlines locally showing increases in certain crimes in North Warwickshire and Nuneaton and Bedworth. Mike O’Brien is a former Home Office Minister for four years. He said, “The thin blue line in Warwickshire is too thin. Warwickshire Police does what it can with the numbers of officers it has got, but David Cameron has cut one in five of our officers. Officers that were clearly needed. The problem is not the Police, it’s the politicians.
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
“Police numbers matter. John Major’s government cut Warwickshire Police by 11%, but as a Home Office Minister under Labour, I pressed for increases in Police numbers and got more officers. Now they have gone again. And the 20% cut by this government is the worst cut ever. "This damning report shows that this Tory-led government is letting down the victims of crime in Warwickshire. It’s not the fault of officers. It’s the fault of government. They wasted millions on Police Commissioner elections whilst cutting Police numbers!” Mike has also dismissed reassurances from Warwickshire Police Commissioner Ron Ball. Mike said, “These are typical comments by Ron Ball. He just doesn’t stand up for Warwickshire Police. “His complacency about this report beggar belief. He tells people it’s all okay, but Warwickshire people know it’s not okay. There is a problem. We lack officers to attend crimes. He ought to stop covering it up. “Mr Ball was a life long Conservative, but when his party nominated someone else, he stood for Commissioner as an independent. Since his election he has accepted Cameron’s Police cuts. Warwickshire needs a Police Commissioner who stops behaving
like a Tory stooge and calls for an increase in Police numbers. That’s what the West Midlands Commissioner has done. Mr Ball had his chance to speak out after this report and he has flunked it. “This is a very serious and important report by experienced Police chiefs and it says Warwickshire Police has a problem. Mr Ball pretending it does not exist, won’t wash. If it’s a choice between believing Mr Ball or HM Chief inspectors of Police, he loses.” The HMIC report said: " Timely and effective pursuit of named and wanted suspects should be core business for the police. "Inspectors were also particularly concerned by the number of "desk-based investigations", where forces decide to deal with a crime over the telephone without any attendance at the scene, without face-to-face contact with the victim." Desk-based investigations are failing to serve the public and mean "little or nothing more than recording a crime without taking further action", HMIC warned. And in 17 forces, the Inspectorate found police community support officers (PCSOs) were being asked to investigate crimes beyond their role profile and training. HMIC also found the national picture
across all forces in relation to use of technology was "inadequate" with officers using "old technology, ill-suited to modern technology". Figures released earlier this year suggested police are failing to solve half of crimes, including nearly three quarters of cases of theft, criminal damage and arson. For the Inspectorate, Mr Baker added: "When a crime has been committed, it's the job of the police service to go and find out who's done it and bring them to justice. "They're the cops and we expect the cops to catch people and my proposition to you is unless you've got the powers of Mystic Meg or something like that, you not turning up and using your skills, it's going to be mightily difficult to bring people to justice." President of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), Sir Hugh Orde said simply: "The reality of austerity in policing means that forces must ensure that their officers' time is put to best use and this means prioritising calls.” Adam Pemberton, assistant chief executive of charity Victim Support, said: "These are not the standards we should expect from the police and improvements must be made."
Coleshill shop ‘Remember When’ a real hit with popular TV show TV Comedian Rory McGrath paid a visit to ‘Remember When’ on Coleshill High Street recently, accompanied by antiques expert David Harper and a full TV film crew.
They were in town to film scenes for a new series of the popular BBC2 show Celebrity Antiques Roadtrip. In each programme, two competing celebrities put their wit and bargaining skills to the test as they set out to find hidden gems, before selling them at auction. On hand to help each celebrity is a wellknown antiques expert whose knowledge and experience will give the celebrity antique hunters the best possible advantage in the competition. Traveling in classic vintage cars, the teams are given a budget of £400 before starting their engines for a cross-country road trip. On this occasion they decided to visit Re-
member When, for a second time!. Business owner Kim Badcock commented: “I received a call asking if I’d mind being part of the show which I instantly agreed to. They have filmed here before which is why they had my details. “They were here for about four hours believe it or not, during which time I kept the shop open. They caused quite a stir on the High Street as they crossed over the road.” Kim stocks a great selection of antiques which is clearly the reason for their interest. She added: “They always buy a lot of my best pieces so I tend to keep a few aside for such occasions. Every now and again I bring them out.” “I can honestly say hand on heart that everything you see on TV is exactly how it happens, they really do haggle to get the best prices and nothing is set up.” Kim has been an antiques dealer for the past ten years, prior to that she was a Solicitor for 27 years. Her shop ‘Remember
When’ is probably best known for the huge array of wool and associated knitting products that she stocks. She added: “Knitting has always been a huge passion of mine, because the antiques trade is so hit and miss my husband suggested that I get some wool in. Now I’m like a kid in a sweet shop, I absolutely love it. It has been so successful that the antiques have taken a back seat somewhat. We have customers come from all over the country to buy wool, patterns and equipment.” Clearly Kim is doing something right to attract such a prestigious TV show on numerous occasions, even as this article goes to print Kim has arranged for yet another visit by Antiques Roadtrip. So if you are interested in either knitting or antiques please pay a visit to Remember When at 80 High Street, Coleshill. The new series of Antiques Roadtrip airs Wednesdays at 7pm on BBC2.
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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Over the weekend of 22-23 August 2014, Morrisons Coleshill colleagues participated in a ‘Round the World Cycle Challenge’ which saw all 112 South West Morrisons stores cycle the 24,902 mile circumference of the globe to raise funds for charity Sue Ryder.
The staff members completed the 223 mile challenge portion on a static bike within 48 hours this August Bank Holiday Weekend. They chose a Hawaiian theme for the event, with Hawaiian food stalls, fancy dress and cake bakes held to generate donations. The team managed to raise over £1,000 to contribute towards a collective South West fundraising target. The money will enable Sue Ryder - the retailer’s nationwide charity partner - to establish new
community services, family support teams and an online support community across the UK, including in the South West. Store General Manager Evette Ainley said: “We called on all cycling fanatics to come down to store, and they did to cheer our colleagues on and dig deep into their pockets. Together we raised significant funds for Sue Ryder’s vital community care and support in our area.” Samantha Steadman, from Sue Ryder, said: “We are very grateful for the support of Morrisons colleagues and customers. The money raised will support vital Sue Ryder healthcare services which will make a huge difference to thousands of families at the most difficult time of their lives. It will also enable us to launch a new Online Support Community for the region’s families. "
Morrisons launches new Academy of Food in Coleshill New resource available for Coleshill’s pupils and teachers Morrisons is launching the Academy of Food in Coleshill, a fresh new free education programme designed to help children understand where good food comes from. With the introduction of the new curriculum in September 2014, the new Acad-
emy of Food website will help Coleshill’s schoolchildren - from seven to fourteen years old - discover how Morrisons food is produced. It is packed with lessons, activities and videos on farming, fishing, baking and growing that link to the new curriculum. Schools will be encouraged to visit Morrisons Coleshill to see the journey of food from field and sea through to point
of sale. Whilst in store, children can also learn from Academy-trained butchers, bakers and fishmongers, to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare delicious, healthy dishes. Evette Ainley, Store General Manager at Morrisons Coleshill said: “As a fresh food retailer we think it’s really important that children understand exactly where their fresh food comes from, which is why we think we’re in a unique position to respond to the recent curriculum changes. We know that our in store butchers, bakers and fishmongers are a great way of telling the wider food story and the Academy of Food will allow us to do this”.
The Academy of Food website can be found at www.academyoffood.morrisons. com. In includes; a 'Let’s Farm’ section which follows the journey from farm to fork, reveals how farmers care for their cattle and explores the best ways to cook meat; a ‘Let’s Fish’ area which investigates how fish are responsibly caught and processed for maximum freshness; a ‘Let’s Bake’ zone which traces flour from sowing the wheat to baking in the oven; and a ‘Let’s Grow’ plot which inspires children to grow their own fruit and vegetables in their school grounds. To access the Academy of Food and its resources, teachers should log on to the
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new website to complete a short registration[i]. To book a store visit, teachers can contact the store’s Community Champion to make arrangements. Through the successful Let’s Grow programme Morrisons has given away more than £18.5 million worth of equipment to over 26,500 schools, meaning 5 million children up and down the UK now have access to Let’s Grow gardening and cooking equipment, meaning that half of the UK’s children can learn about where real food comes from. The Academy of Food will work hand in hand with the Let’s Grow programme, telling the food story from field to fork.
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Supermarket joins 112 South West stores to host ‘Round the World Cycle Challenge’
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Staff at Morrisons Coleshill cycle the globe for charity
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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Congratulations to well known Coleshill couple as they reach marriage milestone
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Townsman and long serving Borough Councillor, Gordon Sherratt and his wife Marina celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary. Congratulations on behalf of our readers to a lovely couple who have served Coleshill so well for so long. ON August 14th Marina and Duncan Sherratt reached their 60th wedding anniversary.
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Their family arranged a surprise party for the couple on 10th August at St Mary and St Margarets Church Hall in Castle Bromwich. The day began at the Church itself where they were married in 60 years previous in 1954. Supported by family and friends, including 5 grandchildren, they were able to recreate their wedding photos in the church yard, even their flower girl from the original ceremony was amongst the guests. An afternoon of 50’s music followed and old friends shared memories from days gone by. Staff at the Church Hall provided the food and Clive from Classica Photography captured the day on film. Mr and Mrs Sherratt are a familiar sight in Coleshill. Duncan was made an Honorary Townsman in 2013 for his life long contributions to the town. Serving as a Borough Councillor for Coleshill South for many years, Duncan has worked hard for the area and behind every great man there is always a great woman. We have a lot to thank Marina and Duncan for and on behalf of The Coleshill Post and our readers we would like to offer our congratulations. We’re sure there will be many more wonderful years yet to come.
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Delighted family and friends were able to celebrate with Patricia (nee Guest) and Derek Andrews on the 60th Anniversary of their marriage which took place at St Martin's Church, Tipton on 31st July, 1954, a
rather drizzly day.
The Diamond Wedding celebration, on a more sunny day, was enhanced by receiving cards from many people including The Queen and The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rt Rev Justin Welby. Pat and Derek are well known within the communities of Water
Orton and Coleshill. Until his retirement in 1986 Derek was, in effect, Classic's Master (teaching English & Latin) at Coleshill Grammar School for Boys and Pat was Deputy Head at Water Orton Primary School until her retirement in 1988. Having received a warm welcome at St Peter and St Paul's Church when they arrived in Water Orton in August 1958 they have continued to worship there. Derek was for many years Church Warden and very active in collections for Christian Aid, no doubt he was totally supported by Pat in all these endeavours. Pictured are Pat and Derek in their garden with their family; their sons Jonathon and Richard centre back, and their families, and also with her family, Pat's sister Edna Brown, who was a bridesmaid. We all offer them Many Congratulations and we look forward to more happy years of knowing them in Water Orton.
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
With construction of North Warwickshire Borough Council’s new £4.2m building now complete, work on the interior fit out is well underway, including the finishing touches to changing rooms, the installation of timber flooring and completion of sports courts. The new facility will provide basketball and badminton courts, indoor five-a-side football facilities plus a state-of-the-art gym, a dance studio and two squash courts. Built on the Coleshill School site on Packington Lane, the new facility will be open for community use, as well as that of the school. Richard Scarrott, Operations Director, Wates Construction, commented: “Work on the new Coleshill Leisure Centre is progressing extremely well, but it’s always great to welcome a helping hand on to the site. The new facility is set to become an invaluable recreational space for the community and there is definitely a sense of excitement building as we move steadfastly towards completion this autumn.” Mayor of North Warwickshire, Cllr Ray Sweet, added: “It’s fantastic to see the progress made on this new leisure centre for Coleshill offering great facilities for people in the town and surrounding villages. I shall look forward to opening the new centre which will be an historic landmark for me as I opened the original Coleshill Leisure Centre back in 1982.” Work on the new facility began in January and completion of the new building is expected in October this year.
The Coleshill Post
MAYOR of North Warwickshire, Cllr Ray Sweet, has taken time off from his civic duties recently to give Wates Construction a helping hand with the interior decoration of the new Coleshill Leisure Centre.
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Mayor brushes up his painting skills at new Coleshill leisure centre
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Can you help Beeline Community Transport? BEELINE Community Transport is facing its worst funding crisis in thirty years with the loss of two thirds of their income. To bridge the gap and keep this valuable service going the charity is asking for volunteers from the Coleshill and Water Orton areas to come forward to help with fundraising. Beeline has been operating since 1984 transporting North Warwickshire residents to and from medical journeys when they have no access to a bus or car. In that time the volunteer drivers have driven 2,381,709 miles for 94,447 journeys. For people who do not drive a car, especially when they are in a rural area, getting to a hospital, or even to the surgery, can be really difficult. The volunteer drivers provide more than an essential service, they provide a lifeline. Katy Harper, Funding Officer, said “Our clients are very vulnerable; most of them cannot walk as far as the bus stop, if they are lucky enough to have a bus service, and they need an arm to lean on. They rely on Beeline’s doorto-door service. For these people we have to find a way to keep going. Ideally, we’d like to have a team of volunteer fundraisers to help us raise £15,000 a year. We could call them ‘The Beekeepers!” Please, can you help? Anyone who can encourage donations is most welcome; it might be something like encouraging a pub to have a Quiz Night or a raffle, manage a stand at a show, talk to businesses, have a coffee morning. No special skills are needed just time, enthusiasm and imagination. For more information about Beeline’s service and volunteering for Beeline please phone 01827 717074. A video showing how the volunteer drivers help local residents can be seen on the website: www.beelinect.org.uk .
FRIENDS: Eva Moulstone (right) is delighted to have met Help at Hand befriender Jaydene Biddulph
Help at Hand finds a perfect match in Coleshill It was fete that brought them together, after a failed attempt to meet a man in Water Orton Jaydene Biddulph was paired with a lady from Coleshill. This is a story about love, but not an ordinary love story, a story of a true friendship forged after Jaydene answered an advert by the Volunteer Centre North Warwickshire for a Help at Hand befriender. Jaydene had seen the advert several times in the local gazette and cut it out four times. On the fourth time she finally contacted the centre and found out more about becoming a befriender for the Help at Hand project. The Volunteer Centre North Warwickshire’s Help at Hand project matches people in the local community with people who need help the most – sick, elderly or disabled. The project is funded by the Big Lottery and has been running for two years in North Warwickshire. Volunteers have helped people in a number of ways doing a bit of gardening, DIY, shopping and dog walking. In the last year befriending has become a popu-
lar opportunity for Help at Hand promoting them to regularly advertise for volunteers and people to come forward who could benefit from a befriender. After going through the relevant checks she was paired with an elderly lady in Coleshill. Eva Moulstone wanted a friend. She lost her husband four years ago and was finding life lonely. Although she says she has had a wonderful life and place to live, there was something missing. Befrienders give time to other people, usually lonely or isolated. They support them and listen to them on a one to one basis. As a relationship builds, some befriending extends to going out on social activities together. The Help at Hand project originally tried to pair Jaydene with a man in Water Orton. Jaydene says “ I didn’t actually meet the man, but when Martin, the Help at Hand Training Coordinator told him about me on the phone, he said he wanted a younger model, so his loss was Eva’s gain. “When I went to see Eva I immediately clicked with
her, we got on so well, we are definitely the perfect match. I visit her once a week and we talk about everything and anything.” Martin Horner says “It’s important that a befriender and the person they are visiting feel comfortable together. It’s good that people are honest if it is not for them we welcome them to tell us so we can sort out a better pairing” Eva says “It’s so good that there are volunteers out there like Jaydene and organisations like the Volunteer Centre North Warwickshire who have the knowledge and expertise to set up projects like Help at Hand. It’s great the way I have been paired with Jaydene. She makes great tea and cake and I can talk about anything to her” Eva had also seen the Help at Hand project advertised in the local press and rang the Volunteer Centre. She says “I’m really glad I did, I look forward to Jaydene coming round. She’s always there for me and will do anything for me.” As well as the regular meetings at Eva’s home, Jaydene also takes her
to see one of her friends at a local elderly people’s home. One day Eva mentioned the friend and how she was no longer able to get out and see her. “Jaydene immediately said let’s go and visit her and she took me in her car on an outing out to the home. “We visit regularly now, as well as looking forward to seeing Eva, I think she quite likes it that I come along as well” says Jaydene. Jaydene insists she has benefited as much as Eva from the Help at Hand project. She says “I haven’t got grandparents so this volunteering opportunity enriches my life, I can’t talk to them, but now I have Eva to talk to instead. She tells me lovely things and lovely stories about her life, I feel privileged to know her.” The Help at Hand project is continuing to work in North Warwickshire. If you have been inspired by Jaydene and Eva’s story and would like some help or would like to become a befriender, give the team a ring on 01827 717073 or go to the website www.vcnw.org.uk.
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PICTURED: Jeff Barnacle (Green Cup Coffe) with Melbick’s Catering Manager Sharon Forster.
THE Coleshill Post was invited to the launch of a new partnership this month that saw Melbicks garden centre join forces with Green Cup coffee in an effort to provide their customers with a more environmentally conscious way of enjoying coffee whilst they shop. Green Cup was established three years ago after a moment of inspiration and five years of research saw the company’s founder and current Managing
Director, Jeremy Knight, turn a good idea into a reality. Jeff Barnacle from Green Cup said: “The idea behind Green Cup is simple: produce coffee that is both enjoyable and ethically viable. Conscious of the estimate that over 30, 000 tonnes of used coffee grounds is being sent to landfill in the UK each month.” Green Cup are focused on reducing the carbon footprint of every cup of coffee they sell whilst ensuring the quality of their products and maintaining a transparent fair trade ethos. Green Cup reduce their carbon
footprint by collecting spent coffee grounds that are gathered in recycling containers that they provide. The grounds are then combined with sheep’s wool and other “secret ingredients” to produce a natural fertilizer that is 100% organic. Melbicks’ Catering Manager, Sharon Forster, commented that, “Melbicks are very proud to be serving Green Cup coffee,” adding that, “…we have the fantastic opportunity to work together, to reduce the amount of waste and increase the awareness of up-cycling coffee grounds.”
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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Coleshill Remembers
News & events relating to WW1 commemorations
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Lights Out
On 4 August 2014 the nation was asked to turn their lights out and pause for a few moments to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. In Coleshill more than two hundred people shared this moment of reflection at a vigil held at Coleshill Parish Church. The service included readings from representatives from a number of community groups including Father Hudson’s Society, The Coleshill School, the Royal British Legion and Coleshill United Church; in addition to music performed by Coleshill Town Band. 132 candles, representing the 132 Coleshill soldiers who died during the war, were extinguished during the service by Katie and Helen Alder and also Matt Smith. It concluded at the war memorial with the hymn Abide With Me and the words from John 15:13 ‘No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ Coleshill Remembers would particularly like to thank Juliet Bakker, Roy Charlesworth, Zoe Hillcox, Simon Toon and Mike Walpole for all their hard work in organising this event.
LEFT TO RIGHT: Zoe Hillcox Cllr. Kirsteen Wootton, Roy Charlesworth County Chairman of the Royal British Legion and Mrs Pat Charlesworth.
WWI exhibition a huge success On a sunny Sunday afternoon on a bank holiday weekend a number of people attended the Coleshill Remembers World War 1 Exhibition at the Town Hall. There were a variety of displays including Coleshill schoolchildren’s contributions to the ‘Letter to an Unknown Soldier’ project, a photographic exhibit by the Civic Society and a display of historical artefacts and war memorabilia by Rob Baker from the Three Spires Search Society. There were two presentations both of which were well received by attendees. Dr Sarah Jane Veevers gave a talk entitled ‘Researching WWI soldiers: a basic introduction’ which not only provided insights into how to begin the process of genealogical research but also emphasised her recent discoveries concerning Coleshill’s soldiers. Whilst reading Dr. Veevers’ exhibit of her research
about the fallen soldiers of Coleshill, several of the attendees were able to give her additional information on some of the soldiers listed on the war memorials. Dave Tomkinson introduced the audience to an
impressive array of WWI weaponry, highlighting the developments in arms during the war years. His collection included shells, mortars, a machine gun and Lee Enfield rifles most of which were used during the Battle of the Somme. There was also a display by Patrick Foster-Smith and the opportunity to purchase his book, In My Father’s Footsteps. In addition, the Royal British Legion’s stall sold a variety of merchandise. All funds raised on the day also went to the RBL. Coleshill Remembers would like to thank all contributors for generously giving up their time to stage this event. If you have information you would like to share with us or would like to get involved please email us at info@coleshillremembers. co.uk, telephone us on 077258025808, or write to us at Coleshill Town Hall, High Street, Coleshill. B46 3BG.
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Reading Challenge Presentation at Water Orton Library
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Life in Coleshill during WWI As Coleshill remembers the First World War, call into Coleshill Library to take a look at our latest display. The photographs are taken from the
library archives and feature life in Coleshill during the war. Also, there is a selection of local history books for adults to borrow and plenty of First World
War themed stories and history books for children, so drop by and see what’s on offer. Photographs-Gail Whitmore
For a third summer the children of Water Orton took up the challenge of reading 6 books in their holiday. Nearly 60 took part and 42 completed . A very good result. On 13th September most
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came to the library to be presented with their medals and certificates. They should all be very proud of themselves! Hopefully, they will be the readers of the future and will keep our library going. Water Orton Library is
staffed by volunteers and is open every Friday and Saturday 9-5. Running Rhymes for under5s at 2pm on Fridays and serving tea and homemade cake 2-4, plus lots of other events. Call into Water Orton library and find out more!
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AS part of the commemoration of the centenary of World War 1 there will be a continuing commemoration of all of Coleshill’s fallen. Simon Toon (Band Sergeant of Coleshill Town Band and ex-Royal Naval Officer) will be commemorating each casualty on the centenary of their death over the next 4 years.
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Simon commented “It is important that we remember that this conflict changed peoples’ lives in Coleshill and across the world over the whole of the four year period and beyond, and don’t simply think that commemorating the beginning and the end of the war should be enough”. There is a great deal of research going on locally with Simon and Dr Sarah Jane Veevers researching all 132 identified Coleshill Casualties remembered across 4 memorials in the town. At present they have identified the dates of death of 96 of those named and on the 100 year anniversary of each, Simon will be commemorating them. “Wherever possible I will be commemorating the fallen in Coleshill at the Parish Memorial at 8.00pm on each evening that marks the anniversary of their death. Obviously I cannot guarantee I’ll be in Coleshill on all the dates so wherever I am, I shall find an appropriate place and do the same. There is an open invitation to anyone who would like to join me on these occasions and I’ll say a few words about who we are remembering and what we know about them. If people can’t make it to the memorial or I am not there, I hope they will consider lighting a candle and spending 10 minutes quietly reflecting on what these local men and their families sacrificed.” The research is ongoing and some of it is quite challenging. All 55 men named on the Parish War Memorial have been identified but some of those
Morrisons Coleshill extends opening hours Morrisons Coleshill has extended its store opening hours to 08:00 - 22:00 (from 08:00 - 21:00), further to demand from local shoppers. Shopping during traditional hours is a thing of the past, with new research[i] confirming one in five now regularly shop outside of ‘normal’ week day hours. Nearly 20% of shoppers now usually visit a store between 6-9am in the morning or after 8pm at night. Half of early morning and late evening shoppers say they prefer these ‘quieter’ times, 37% claim it better suits their working hours, and one in 20 say they want to put kids to bed before heading down to store. Store General Manager Evette
Ainley said: “Modern family life, more flexible working hours and busy schedules mean customers want us to be open for longer. The extension of our opening hours is one of many changes we are making – to make shopping trips easier at our stores.” The activity forms part of a significant UK-wide investment programme to make shopping trips easier for customers. Additional improvements include the removal of trolley locks, the redesign of over 277 stores, the refurbishment of store cafes, the building of new petrol stations, the refurbishment of baby change and toilet facilities, and the updating of car park controls.
named on the Catholic Memorial and School Memorials simply give a name with no Regiment or rank. A lot of the time these were people who didn’t live in or reside in Coleshill for very long, being resident at one of the boys’ homes or boarding at the school. Where a specific date of death has not or cannot be identified, the remainder of the casualties will be commemorated on Armistice Day 2018, the day that marks 100 years since the end of the Great War. Should anyone have any information on Coleshill’s fallen or men who served and returned, they are welcome to contact Simon through the Coleshill Remembers Website (http://www. coleshillremembers.co.uk) or via their Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/ColeshillRemembersWWI). There will also be updates on the dates when each commemoration is happening on the Coleshill Remembers WW1 Facebook page and Simon’s Twitter account (@Mav586).
Dates currently known for commemorations this year:
11th October 2014 – Private William Gallagher, 2nd Battalion King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry 28th October 2014 – Private Oliver Speake, 2nd Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment 31st October 2014 – Drummer Albert Gallagher, 2nd Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment 10th November 2014 – Able Seaman Joseph Tennant RN, HMS Agincourt 27th November 2014 – Private James Aspley, 1st and 3rd Battalion Worcestershire Regiment 19th December 2014 – Private John Palmer, 2nd Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment
The Coleshill Online Roll of Honour of the Great War can be viewed at http://www.st-it.co.uk/ ColeshillRemembersWW1.php
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Over the next four years, decorated ex-Naval Officer Simon Toon, will commemorate each fallen soldier at Coleshill’s War Memorial on the anniversary of their death.
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Coleshill’s fallen soldiers remembered one by one
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Thursday 18 September 2014 Coleshill Town Hall (The Old Court Room), High Street, Coleshill, For residents of the wards of Ansley, Arley, Astley, Coleshill, Corley, Fillongley, Great & Little Packington, Maxstoke, Over Whitacre and Shustoke. YOUR Area Forums give YOU the chance to raise issues of local concern and keep up to date with what is happening in YOUR community.
BY CLLR ADAM FARRELL Coleshill Town Councillor
Last month I wrote about the need to develop a vision for Coleshill. Some people agreed but wanted to know how we develop that vision. I think it starts with a simple question; what do you want Coleshill to be like in 10 years? I want Coleshill based on three principles: a fair, a caring and an accountable town. Coleshill ought to offer fair opportunities to local people. Fairness that allows young people to get on the property ladder, be protected on our streets, have decent schools and good health provision. Fairness means allowing local people to get secure well paid jobs and at least the same level of services here that they have in Warwick. I want Coleshill to be more caring; a town where neighbours look out for one another; where the vulnerable are supported; where our public services meet the needs of local people. I want Coleshill to be an accountable. To have political representatives that speak up for local people; but it also needs to be a place where people take responsibility for their own actions and stand up for themselves and what they believe in. I know these are words and only actions will provide change. That’s why I want to talk about something tangible and practical, something that people will see developing over the next few years. Coleshill has the Memorial Park. In the middle of town we have two football pitches, a play area, a cricket pitch, two tennis courts, a basket ball court and a skate park. We have green space that we must both protect and improve for future
generations. Unfortunately we’ve been unlucky as well, the area had been left to deteriorate for too long. The Town Council has appointed a local company, Moore Environment to produce a ‘Master Plan’ for the park area. They will be consulting with you very soon on what you would like to see at the park. What would make you use the park more? What would you like to see for young people to do? How can we design the park to limit anti-social behavior? What can we provide to make it a real community asset? The Memorial Park is more than just a park. It’s a space for sports and recreation for people of all ages, a meeting space for children and parents. It provides the chance to socialise. We’ve had the neighbourhood plan questionnaire and soon we’ll be asked for our views on the park. Don’t dismiss it. To paraphrase the Greek Philosopher Plato ‘One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by those who don’t care enough.’ Some residents have criticised the whole idea of improving the Memorial Park. One said, “It is a travesty to spend Council Tax payers money on further play equipment in the Park”. I understand she is a Conservative. Look, the bottom line is that there is a difference between Labour and the Tories here in Coleshill. Labour wants to improve and change things. The Tories want to keep things as they are or cut anything they can. They understand the cost of everything, but not the value of things to a town like ours. Your opinion is important, if you want to see change and improvements to the park and our town, speak up and be heard.
Drop-in Session from 6.30pm: Join us for a cup of tea and chat informally or confidentially to representatives from the Borough & County Councils and your local Safer Neighbourhood Police Team. Then from 7.00pm Have Your Say and influence the Policing Priorities for the next 3 months Question Time! – YOUR opportunity to raise issues of local con-
cern and lots more! Need to know more on how you can be involved? Contact the Northern Area Team on: 02476 375700 or e-mail: northwarwickshire@warwickshire.gov.uk Or visit our webpage: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/communityforums and follow the Area Forums on Facebook – North Warwickshire Area Forums
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‘A vision has to be more than just rhetoric’
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Coleshill CofE Primary School & Sunflowers Nursery
Beautiful butterflies at Coleshill C of E Primary School
The Coleshill Post
In their annual end of year tradition, the children from the before and after school club released a batch of beautiful butterflies before breaking up for their summer holidays.
Since the butterflies started life as tiny clusters of eggs, the children watched the different stages of their lifecycle as they changed from caterpillar to chrysalis, and were excited to see the butterflies up close as they helped to release them into the school’s prayer garden. Coleshill Church of England Primary School are celebrating their best ever SATs results as well as an inspection report that confirms that the school, through its distinctive Christian character, is outstanding at meeting the needs of all learners. Headteacher Andy Kershaw said, “Our staff and governors have worked very hard to continue to develop our school, and the effort of the children and the support they get at home is clear to see. We would like to wish everyone a very enjoyable summer break, and we look forward to seeing you all refreshed, recharged and ready for a new term in September!” For more information about the school, please see the website, www. coleshillprimary.org.uk.
Goodbye Graduation The children moving on from Sunflowers Nursery and the Reception class at Coleshill C of E Primary School recently said goodbye in a special assembly which celebrated the fun they’ve had and the friendships they’ve made over the year. Family and friends enjoyed seeing pictures of the children playing together, listening to the children singing songs and watching
A manorial roll recording the decisions of the Coleshill Court Leet in 1728, which has been in the care of the Gascoigne family has been presented to the Archivists of Coleshill and District Civic Society.
The presentation was made in The Old Market Hall by Sue Wallace and Barry Gascoigne who have had the role restored by Warwick County Records Office and wished to donate it to the Civic Society Archives. The Court Leets began to decline in the fourteenth century as they were superseded by Justices of the Peace and, eventually, Magistrates Courts. But some continued to operate into the nineteenth century as a form of civil administration. The Coleshill Roll records thirty by-laws and injunctions, mainly concerned with draining and street cleanliness. The original roll is now on loan to Warwick County Records Office with a copy being kept in the Old Market Hall in Coleshill.
a special show. Headteacher Andy Kershaw said, “Our Foundation Stage gives children a great start, combining a caring ethos with modern facilities and a curriculum that lets children learn through play. We wish all our pupils the best as they move on to the next stage of their education.” To find out more about Sunflowers Nursery visit www.sunflowerscoleshill. co.uk.
Gascoigne family gift to Coleshill Civic Society
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
BY BOBBIE COLLISON
Journalist
Instead there was nostalgia and emotion as the audience, members of Coleshill Women's Fellowship, were transported back to WWI by a khaki clad trio, rifles at the ready.
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German barber whom he met in Germany before the war. As well as this enactment, fellowship members in the Town Hall were treated to the sight of authentic WWI uniforms, firing equipment, identity cards and helmets in a memorabilia display. There was even a taste of cake made from an authentic 1914 recipe. The fellowship meets monthly (excluding August) at 1.45pm in Coleshill Town Hall, where we enjoy friendship, talks, demonstrations and good companionship. So join us and bring along a friend. You will be so welcome.
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Farmers’ Butcher is moving into the former Spencer & Son shop in Coleshill. Our Beef and Lamb comes locally from Mill Farm, Maxstoke where we rear pedigree Hereford Cattle. The herd can be seen grazing on the river meadows below Coleshill during the summer. Hereford Cattle are renowned for the eating quality of their meat. We also run a flock of sheep which graze on traditional pastures in Maxstoke. Wherever possible pork and poultry is sourced locally. Run by a fully qualified butcher with years of experience, Farmer’s Butcher is an authentic traditional butcher’s shop stocking the very best of local produce.
Title:................................................................................................................ Name:................................................................................................................. Address: ........................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................... Post Code: ........................................................................................................ Telephone: ........................................................................................................ Subscription costs £2.50 per edition including postage, paid annually, a one off payment of £30 should be made to ‘The Coleshill Post’ as a twelve edition subscription charge. Pay over the phone with your debit or credit card by calling 01675 467189 or enclose a cheque for £30 (Thirty Pounds) made payable to ‘The Coleshill Post’.
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It was war and peace in Coleshill on the first day of autumn. But no noisy artillery fire disturbed the peace and serenity of this easy Warwickshire town.
“Captain” Paul Thompson and “Sargent” Ken Thompson represented the traditional “Tommy” and Alex Thompson played the part of “Fritz”. Peace took place, for a day at least, as each side carried white flags and reciprocal treats for a now world famous Christmas day “cease fire”. On “No man's Land”, between the two warring front views, there were friendly games of football (“Fritz”cheering “Tommy” and vice versa), joyful singing and yuletide treats. One British soldiers even went into an enemy trench to have his hair cut by a
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Tommy and Fritz talk to Women’s Fellowship
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Local cake decorating class leads to professional diploma ON a Wednesday evening in front of 48 parents, guardians and staff, students from Wilnecote High school were presented with their Pass PME certificates. It was an emotional end to a successful 8 week course, held at The CakeArt Studio (www.thecakeartstudio.co.uk).
'The Studio' is a new state-of-the-art bespoke teaching and retail facility in Atherstone, Warwickshire which specialises in all aspects of cake decorating classes, sugarcraft and bakery. 'The Studio' is dedicated to ensure that every student receives a personal and highly professional teaching experience when attending any of their cake decorating classes and baking courses. Lecturer and head of school, Lynda Gilbey approached Wilnecote High School some months ago and offered Assistant Head Julie Price the opportunity for 8 students (aged between 12 and 14) to study for the internationally respected Diploma in Cake Decorating. The PME Master Diploma has been taught successfully to adults by Lynda for over 4 year but with her vision and excellent teaching skills she approached PME based in Enfield, Hong Kong and USA to gain permission to promote these skills to a younger audience. Lynda owner of CakeArt Creations retail outlet had seen an increase in younger customers and wanted to encourage and guide the future generation of Cake Designers. With the help of Wilnecote Staff member Susan Taylor, students attended the studio for 5.5 hours on a weekly basis over 8 weeks. Each student had different abilities but with the guidance of professional tuition and excellent facilities the ‘A team’ (as they became known), soon became little experts. Covering many skills and producing many ‘off pieces’ the
students produced some excellent work. Each were encouraged through facebook and other social media networks by top Cake Decorating Artists and fellow Adult PME students who appreciated the high level of ability each student was showing, (please visit https://www. facebook.com/thecakeartstudio ). On completion of the 8 weeks each student had to present a novelty cake and a tiered cake using 5 skills learnt. As you can see from the photograph, the students did themselves proud. After such a successful course it has been agreed that Wilnecote School will continue to send students regularly on future PME and workshop courses. Julie was amazed with the high level of achievements the students attained but was more impressed with the social aspects gained from these classes. Some students had special needs, but over the 8 weeks each student was seen to improve beyond expectation both socially and with confidence. It has been thought that this method of learning could be advantageous to students with other learning difficulties and Julie, who endorsed this activity with Lynda, will be discussing this opportunity at the beginning of September. With the success of this course Lynda and her team will be approaching ABC to enable them to offer full qualifications to students above 16, and hope to be able to offer funding next year. If you are a member of any school or an interested new student, and would like further information on this course or any offered at the Studio, please email Melissa (course coordinator) at info@cakeartcreations.co.uk. Finally, we would like to congratulate Molly, Zack, James, Sophie, Abe, Morgan, Emma and Sophie on producing excellent work and wish them all the best for their future
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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The Coleshill Post
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Holistic Therapies & Gifts
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01675 467956
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Reflexology / Indian Head Massage / Back Massage / Touch For Health (Kinesiology) /Reiki / Iridology / Herbs / Chiropody / Psychic Readings Beauty /Mini Steam Room. Bookings can be taken in advance.
Town Hall, Sumner Road Entrance, Coleshill B46 3BH
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A treatment based on traditional Chinese medicine which helps balance the body, helps with stress, pain relief and general well-being. Appointments are available on Thursdays from 2-pm 6.30pm. Other appointments may be available by arrangement, call 01675 464 939. SPECIAL OFFER FOR SEPTEMBER ONLY, 1 HOUR FOR £20
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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COLESHILL
The Coleshill Post
No ‘Snap’ decisions for Hub volunteer Duncan
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP Incorporating
Coleshill and District U3A
COLESHILL HUB
TIMETABLE MONDAY
Drop In Service
10AM-1PM - Make use of our facilities; including our laptops, printer, scanner and photocopier. The Freephone and volunteers will be on hand to help.
TUESDAY
Drop In Service
10AM-1PM - Make use of our facilities; including our laptops, printer, scanner and photocopier. The Freephone and volunteers will be on hand to help.
WEDNESDAY Drop In Service
10AM-1PM - Make use of our facilities; including our laptops, printer, scanner and photocopier. The Freephone and volunteers will be on hand to help.
Coffee Morning
10:30AM-12PM - Drop in for a hot drink and a chat with our friendly volunteers. An ideal opportunity to share your ideas on a Coleshill Conversation topic.
"What came first, the crocodile or the egg" was the question asked by the speaker Duncan Strachan, at our meeting on 18th August.
Duncan is one of our members who has had a very interesting life in various countries. South Africa proved to be a memorable time for him as he was involved in setting up a crocodile farm and conservation project. Just acquiring permits to begin with proved to be tricky and time consuming but eventually it got off the ground. Darkness, with the use of a very strong light, was the best time to hunt as the reflection of the eyes shone like beacons. Stealth was important, so Duncan and his friends had to drift down the
river, spot the eyes and, using a gaffing hook, bring the animal to the side of the boat. One brave soul had to jump in the water to sex the crocodile as females were mostly required, most males being released. The unfortunates were injected with a relaxant, tied to the side of the boat and when beached were roped to a tree for collection later. The crocodiles were kept in a compound, their eggs collected and incubated. Eighteen months old, when they are about six feet long, was the optimum time to harvest the animals, every part of it saleable. By farming crocodiles it helped to conserve their species and we were surprised to hear that there is a crocodile farm
Registered Charity Number: 1156846
VISITOR CENTRE TIMETABLE
FRIDAY
WEDNESDAY
Drop In Service
10AM-1PM - Make use of our facilities; including our laptops, printer, scanner and photocopier. The Freephone and volunteers will be on hand to help.
10AM-2PM - Tourist Information, Souvenirs, Popup Stalls featuring KP Fruit & Veg. Local events and promotions.
Job Club
THURSDAY
10AM-12PM - Our job club can help you with your C.V, interview skills, job searching and preparation for a new job.
PAY US A VISIT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT:
U3A FAMILY HISTORY COURSES UK ONLINE HEALTH INFORMATION WEEKLY WALKING GROUP GUIDEPOSTS CARERS RIGHTS DAY THURSDAY 27TH NOVEMBER PLUS MUCH MORE
somewhere in Britain. Our members were invited to handle a skull from a flat headed alligator, a crocodile skull and the head and back skin of a baby crocodile. Not an every day experience. If you are retired or semi retired and would like to meet like minded and interesting people like Duncan, we would be pleased to welcome you to our next meeting on Monday 15 September when the topic is "Can earthquakes be predicted". We meet at 10.30 at Coleshill Town Hall, so please come along to share a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. Full details are on our website, www. coleshillanddistrictu3a.org.uk and be sure to look at the blog for further information.
Annual General Meeting The Old Market Hall, Church Hill Thursday 16th October 2014 @ 7PM Join us to celebrate the 2nd birthday of the Coleshill Hub at our Annual General Meeting. Tea, coffee and cake provided!
10AM-2PM - Tourist Information, Souvenirs, Pop-up Stalls featuring KP Fruit & Veg. Local events and promotions. Walking group 10am start from The Visitor Centre, Church Hill. Coffee and biscuits afterwards.
FRIDAY
10AM-2PM - Tourist Information, Souvenirs, Popup Stalls featuring KP Fruit & Veg. Local events and promotions.
SATURDAY
10AM-2PM - Tourist Information, Souvenirs, Popup Stalls featuring KP Fruit & Veg. Local events and promotions.
Call 01675 238 309 Visit Coleshill Community Hub @ Coleshill Town Hall
www.coleshillhub.org.uk
www.thecoleshillpost.co.uk
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
COLESHILL’S new visitor centre on Church Hill has provided one young entrepreneur with the first step on to the business ladder in the form of a pop-up shop. After finishing his sixth form education, Kieran Briscoe was looking for a challenge. He has turned his keen interest in physical fitness in to a business by renting a pop-up shop within the Old Market Hall and filling it with fresh fruit and vegetables, providing a healthy eating option to the people of Coleshill.
Kieran said: “When I finished sixth form I wanted a challenge and to be able to provide a service for our town. I am into my fitness and aware of the importance of eating fresh fruit and veg. Government guide lines when I have been shopping in supermarkets nothing has ever been appealing, knowing that Coleshill doesn't have a fresh fruit and veg shop we thought it would be a great idea to open up a stall within the old market hall through Discover Coleshill, KP Fruit and Veg was born.” Being the only independent green grocer in Coleshill is quite a challenge,
competing with High Street giants like Morissons, Tesco and Co-Op was never going to be easy, but Kieran, who runs the stall with his sister Paige and mom Sara believes he has got one up on the big boys. By selecting a fresh, diverse range of products from local sources on a daily basis he offers a service that the supermarkets simply cannot match. He commented: “We provide a large range of fruit and veg at very competitive prices, as well as a local delivery service for people who are unable to get to our stall, people can place orders over the telephone or email us.
We pride our selves on being friendly and add the personal touch. Customers are allowed to select their own produce instead of being pre-packed. They can purchase as little or as much as they want.” The success of KP Fruit and Veg goes to highlight the excellent work being done at the Visitor Centre, set up by local charity Coleshill Community Partnership. Chairman of CCP, Adam Farrell told us: “The whole ethos of this project is to provide extra services to the local community. In the case of Kieran and KP Fruit and Veg Coleshill residents now
have an alternative place to buy fresh and healthy products at the same time as providing the means for a small business to flourish. They already have plans to expand the product range so watch this space for more exciting news” Get down to The Old Market Hall on Church Hill and check out KP Fruit and Veg for yourself. The KP pop-up shop is open 10am-2pm Wednesday to Saturday. For more information pay them a visit on Facebook. Search for KP Fresh Fruit and Veg.
Heads Of Coleshill
Hair Salon
Newly Installed Air-Con System Weddings & Special Occasions Children Ladies Men
Gents Loyalty Card, Have you got yours?
Ask staff for a card and get it stamped each visit and your 10th haircut is FREE !!!
We have a great team of experience hairdressers for ladies, men and children. We specialise in hair for special occasions such as weddings and proms. Enquire about our wedding & prom Hair packages and Special Offers!
Take advantage of our fantastic loyalty cards & pay just £27.50 for a lady’s cut and blow dry or just £8.80 for a mens dry trim
75 High Street Coleshill B46 3AG www.headsofcoleshill.com
01675 466 040
E: headsofcoleshill@btinternet.com
The Coleshill Post
Young entrepeneur Kieran Briscoe brings the green grocer back to the High Street with the help of his family
@ColeshillPost
Fresh fruit and veg back on the menu in Coleshill
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost
Summer reading challenge at Coleshill Library
The Coleshill Post
MANY local children gathered at Coleshill library on the 19th August for their Mythical Maze reading day which is part of their summer reading challenge. Paul Cookson author, poet, writer and musician attended to promote and entertain many local children and parents by reading his poetry, singing and playing his musical instruments. The performance was digested extremely well by children of Coleshill with them dancing,
singing and joining in. This really was an excellent morning for all of the children involved by keeping their reading up to date for when they return to school over the summer. There were six books to be read. With over sixty titles to his name, Paul has sold well over three quarters of a million books since he began work as a poet in 1989, and his poems appear in over two hundred other books. The children engaged really well with Paul, who's talent is evident when getting
the children involved with his poetry and
order. Or the Fresh Stone Baked Pizzas with great offers Mondays Buy One get one free or Tuesdays Pizza and a pint for £10. The Fabulous 3 course Sunday lunch with all the trimmings for £15 is a true Delight. Accompany your food with a great selection of Wines and spirits hand picked from Bablake wines of Coventry offering you a selection not openly found on the High street Market. If you have a favourite there is a selection of 14 wines by the Glass including Prossecco . Enjoy the fantastic winey Wednesdays £10 a bottle on selected wines. The spirits and minerals are a world apart and when added to the freshly made cocktails they are truly delicious with 2 for 1 Monday to Saturdays 2pm to 5pm what
a way to start the evening. It may be the end of the summer but with a choice of over 20 bottled and draught traditional ciders delivered direct from the orchards including Sampford Orchards of Devon and Cornish Orchards of Duloe with pitchers of traditional cider at £7 where else would you go. Autumn is upon us The choice of Real ales is Fantastic on the pumps at the Moment is St Austells tribute Thwaites Wainwright and an ever changing choice of great guest ales with septembers offer of £2.80 a pint at selected times the red Lion is well worth a visit. look at trip advisor “Restaurant Quality Food in a Friendly welcoming Pub” Dawnlm from Rowley Regis!
music show, very entertaining stuff from toddlers to teens. Paul has something for everyone within his mornings of reading, poetry and musical fun a must attend for any child who needs mental stimulation during the holidays. Emily, 9, who timed the whole morning due to her informing Paul of his lateness at the start commented. “Absolutely tremendous made the parents as happy as the children.”
The premier pub for wining and dining in Coleshill
Hazelwood Group Practice We are now running
Flu Clinic Saturday 27th September Starts at 9am
If you are aged over 65 years or suffer from Diabetes, Asthma, Chronic Respiratory, Disease, Chronic Heart Disease, Chronic Liver Disease, Chronic Kidney, Disease or Low Immunity Please book your appointment through reception. 27 Parkfield Rd Coleshill, Birmingham B46 3LD
01675 462176
The Red Lion, Coleshill, is now established on the high Street as the premier local pub for wining and dinning experience.
There is always a warm welcome from the friendly staff providing a relaxed environment for you to leisurely enjoy your experience. Head Chef Alfie and his kitchen team have developed a menu to provide you with enough choice to be varied but manageable to provide freshly prepared food using wherever possible locally sourced ingredients. Such as 19 Gales farm Bentley and Barlow s Fish suppliers fresh from the Birmingham Market. Try his Wednesday weird and wonderful night which has delicious meats such as Alpaca ostrich and Zebra cooked to
with all the trimmings Served 12pm til 6pm
1 course £9 2 courses £12 3 courses £15
Full menu also available.
SEPTEMBER OFFERS MON-SAT 2pm til 5pm SUN 6pm til10pm REAL ALES £2.80 a pint TRAD CIDER PITCHER £7 SELECTED WINES £10 A BOTTLE PROSSECO £15 A BOTTLE COCKTAILS 2 FOR £10
MONDAYS
*Terms and conditions apply to all deals
SET MENU
OVER 65 PAY 75% 65% ON YOUR TOTAL BILL WHEN ACCOMPANIED BY FOOD
2 COURSES FOR £10.00 3 COURSES FOR £12.50
PROOF OF AGE REQUIRED DISCRETELY
2-4-1 ON ALL PIZZAS BURGER + PINT £12
MONDAY-THURSDAY
12 NOON TIL 2PM, 6PM TIL 7PM
FILLET OR CAJUN CHICKEN BURGER
FRIDAY & SATURDAY
TUESDAYS
12 NOON TIL 6PM
PIZZA + SELECTED DRINK £10
WEDNESDAYS
WINEY WEDNESDAYS
WILD WEDNESDAY
SELECTED WINES £10 A BOTTLE
WILD WEDNESDAY
Selection of exotic meats from around the world. Have you ever tried Zebra, Kangaroo, Alpaca or even Crocodile
BUY 4 MAIN MEALS + GET A FREE BOTTLE OF WINE
Full menu also available.
FIZZY FRIDAY PROSSECO £15 PER BOTTLE
!
Prepared fresh & cooked to order
THURSDAY
BOOKING REQUIRED SELECTED WINES
SEPTEMBER VOUCHER £5 OFF YOUR FOOD BILL SUNDAY-TUESDAY
SPEND £20 ON YOUR FOOD BILL & REDEEM VOUCHER FOR £5 OFF NOT VAILD IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER 1 voucher per table. Full T’s & C’s available on request Offer valid until 19th October 2014
FRIDAY
£5.00
OFF
The Coleshill Post
SUNDAY LUNCH
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“With friendly service & quality products”
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost
Harry Taylor
Lord Plumb: The House of Lords and Reform
PICTURE BY: ADRIANJONESPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
The Coleshill Post
WITH his past Presidencies of the NFU and the European Parliament behind him, Lord Plumb now dedicates most of his time to working in the House of Lords.
The House of Lords is a baffling institution. It acts as a second chamber to our Parliament, holds the government to account and works alongside Parliament in making laws. When British Prime Ministers throughout history spoke of their love of Parliamentary democracy and the people deciding who governed, they were quiet about the Lords. Why? Because despite its power none of us get a say in who sits in the Lords. There are no elections. Membership of the House of Lords was once a birthright. That meant you became a Lord solely because your father was and his father before him and so on. You were not there because of your skill, knowledge or because the people had put you there. You were there by patronage of the monarchy and the land and wealth you inherited. As Lords were wealthy landowners whose ancestors had been given the title for services to the Crown it was clear where the allegiances of such people lay. Democracy was no more than a charade because the democratically elected Parliament would be subject
to the will of the House of Lords. The Lords acted as a kind of buffer of British establishment to keep the representatives of the people away from those who held the ultimate power but had never and would never face the people. The first man to tackle the problem of the Lords and the monarchy was Oliver Cromwell. Cromwell abolished the Lords when he defeated (and beheaded) King Charles I in the English Civil War and also abolished the monarchy. Cromwell made Parliament the most powerful chamber and declared "The Commons of England find by too long experience that the House of Lords is useless and dangerous to the people of England." It is telling that the House of Lords was reinstated side by side with the monarchy after Cromwell's defeat. The two were mutually beneficial. As increasing numbers of ordinary working people were given the right to vote during the early years of the last century, it became apparent that the House of Lords was waging a kind of class-based rearguard action against the will of the people and their democratically elected government. The House of Lords was a politically and socially conservative chamber and when Herbert Asquith's Liberal government put forward the People's Budget in 1909, which proposed taxes on the wealthy in return for, amongst other measures, an old age pension for all,
the Lords and it's allies went on the offensive. David Lloyd George, who introduced the Bill, was bitterly attacked by the Daily Mail, the Conservative Party and the House of Lords, who rejected it. Lloyd George wouldn't be stopped though and after two general elections in 1910 the Liberals introduced the Parliament Act which gave Parliament (the representatives of the people) the power to reject decrees from the (unrepresentative) House of Lords. Thankfully the House of Lords has changed considerably. There is better party and professional representation but there are growing calls for it to be reduced in size. In 1999 the number of hereditary peers was restricted to 92 but there are currently 775 members, mainly appointed and given a life peerage, which means their title dies with them. Henry Plumb is one of them and he sits as Lord Plumb of Coleshill in the Lords and we spoke about reform of the second chamber. Lord Plumb attended the recent debate on Lords reform where Labour members had proposed to reduce the number in the Lords to 450 and for the entire House to be elected. I asked him what he thought. "I don't agree with the 450 figure but I do prefer a number of about 600. They say they want an elected House of Lords and a I don't agree with that all. There's a lot of Conservatives there that
say they want a partially elected House but I think that does away with the whole principle of the revising chamber, which is what it is. It doesn't make the final decision but can influence it." I asked Lord Plumb why he is against having an elected House of Lords. "If you have an elected House you've got exactly the same problems as the Commons. If you're an elected member and I'm an elected member you're looking over your shoulder that those who you sit with. You're bound to the party line. In the Lords we have the freedom of individuals and I've voted against my party on a number of occasions. The whip sends for me on occasion and I've never been yet." What about the 92 remaining hereditary peers? Tony Blair's government seemed to bottle it at the last minute by not wholly abolishing hereditary peers. "The incredible thing is that some of the 92 hereditary peers actually work harder than the rest of us. There's some blooming good chaps there who work hard from experience. I share an office there with the Earl of Shrewsbury and he's such a down to earth chap. He's a good all rounder and you wouldn't know he was an Earl." So you wouldn't do away with the hereditary element, you'd keep the 92? "Yes I would. If we got down to a reduced number of 600 in the Lords then
I think the hereditary element should be reduced further. At the moment David Cameron has just put another twenty in the Lords. Whether they deserve it or not I have no idea. He would argue that there should be an upper age limit also. I sank in my seat when someone suggested an upper age limit of 80!" So you would keep the hereditary element. How do you feel about the way people are appointed to the House of Lords? "People undoubtedly buy their way in by donating to political parties. I'm opposed to that absolutely and completely. That is wrong. They want a title and are prepared to pay for it. Therefore I think there should be more scrutiny in those that are put forward by the Prime Minister. When I was first asked by Margaret Thatcher to be a working peer I refused in the most polite way I could. I would have like to tell her I was already busier than she was but that wouldn't have gone down very well. A few months later I had a letter back asking me to go into the Lords as a working peer in recognition of being the first Briton elected to the European Presidency and I accepted." Next month we'll be looking at Lord Plumb's work in the Lords and about his legacy as he approaches his ninetieth birthday.
www.thecoleshillpost.co.uk
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Shustoke C. of E. Primary School www.shustokecofeprimary.co.uk
Open Day - Friday 10th October
Coleshill & District U3A are holding their Coffee Morning on Friday 26th September at Maxstoke Village Hall, B46 2QN, from 10 a.m. till 12 noon. Competitions, Raffle, lots of home-made cakes and good company.
“The teachers are particularly adept at providing pupils with lessons designed to capture their imaginations...” (Ofsted)
Heads of Coleshill Coffee Morning 26th Sept 75 High Street Coleshill B46 3AG Phone 01675 466040 Email Headsofcoleshill@btinternet.com Website http://www.headsofcoleshill.com
“...excellent social skills are evident in children’s ability to work readily with others” (Ofsted)
FRIDAY
19TH SEPT 9AM-12PM
“The school is at the heart of it’s community...” (Ofsted)
“Pupils make good progress because they are taught well and benefit fron a well planned curriculum...” (Ofsted)
“...outstanding behaviour contributes strongly to the culture for learning that is a feature of all classes” (Ofsted)
Forge Road, Shustoke, Coleshill, Warwickshire, B46 2AU. Tel: 01675 481 319 Email: admin3207@welearn365.com
2 Tones is proud to be part of the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning. Please join us so people facing cancer can have the support they need to feel more in control of their life, from the moment they’re diagnosed, through treatment and afterwards. Come and join us – everyone is welcome.
01675 462057
105A Wingfield Road B46 3NH
jennywilding@googlemail.com OPENING TIMES: TUESDAY-SATURDAY Tues 8.30-2.00. Weds, Thurs, Fri 8.30-5.00. Sat 8.00-2.30
Water Orton Dental Centre is delighted to introduce a
New Denture Clinic in Water Orton This clinic is being run by experienced Clinical Dental Technician Kevin Thomas in partnership with Dr. Zubair Sacranie, the practice principal at Water Orton Dental Centre.
What is unique about this service is the: • Personalised and expert clinical care • Superior quality of dentures • Clinical collaboration between dentist and dental technician • Treatment delivered by the experts who make the product A typical visit to a dentist for a new denture would usually involve the dentist sending a patient’s denture mould off to be made at dental laboratory, with no clinical interaction between the dentist and technician, and no consultation between the technician and the patient. At Water Orton Dental Centre, however, having this in-house denture clinic allows patients to benefit from the team work and shared expertise of Kevin Thomas and Dr Zubair Sacranie to achieve the most comprehensive treatment plan and best possible results for all of the following:
• Complete or Full Dentures • Partial Dentures • Chrome Dentures • Denture Repairs • Bespoke Dental Implant Supported Dentures Kevin Thomas (GDC No. 145573) has been a Dental Technician for over 35 years. He holds a City &Guild Certificate in Dental Technology, and a Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology from the Royal College of Surgeons. Mr Thomas has a relaxed and friendly approach which puts patients at ease, and draws on his extensive knowledge and experience to provide the best possible care and advice. Dr. Zubair Sacranie (GDC No. 78020) is a highly qualified and experienced dentist, particularly in the fields of cosmetic dentistry and dental implantology. He has been the practice principal and owner of the Water Orton Dental Centre since 2006. Dr Sacranie qualified at The University of Dundee in 2000 and is a member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Dr. Sacranie was awarded a Certificate in Implant Dentistry from Warwick University and attained his Master of Science degree in Dental Implantology from Sheffield University in 2009. He has worked extensively throughout the UK with leading cosmetic and implant surgeons, and he routinely receives referrals from other dentists in the Midlands for restorative and implant dentistry as well as facial aesthetic treatments. Dr. Sacranie is pleased to be offering this new denture service which complements his implant and cosmetic dental clinics at the practice.
“I am excited to be working alongside one of the most experienced clinical dental technicians in the West Midlands and I’m delighted to be introducing this innovative new clinic to my patients.”
For more information or to book your complimentary denture or smile makeover consultation, please contact the practice today on 0121 749 4980 or enquire via our website at www.waterortondentalcentre.co.uk
The Coleshill Post
Please come and visit our caring and creative school between the following times: 9:30-11:30am 1:30-3:00pm.
2Tones Hair Salon
@ColeshillPost
Maxstoke Macmillan Coffee Morning
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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PICTURE BY: ADRIANJONESPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
The Coleshill Post
International DJ, Promoter and Venue Owner, Adam Regan talks to The Coleshill Post Adam Regan has been an integral part of Birmingham’s music scene for 20 years; first as young DJ and manager of the Medicine Bar and now as the boss of the Hare and Hounds, Kings Heath.
He is every bit the cool, modern venue owner; approachable, suave but firm as he heads one of Birmingham’s favourite music venues. Gone, thankfully, are the days when gangsters ran the scene in the second city and now the new breed like Regan, 43, whose whole life has revolved around a love for exciting sounds, are at the forefront. We caught up with Adam at the Hare and Hounds to talk about his journey to where he is now. So Adam, where did life start for you? “My Mom and Dad are from Boredes-
By Harry Taylor Music Writer
ley Green, a hardcore blues fan family. They moved to Halesowen just before I was born, I was born in the QE back in 1971 but I could have been a black country boy. We moved to Harborne when I was about five then we moved to Selly Park when I was 15.” Where are you living now? “I live in Bournville where my kids go to school. I love Moseley and Kings Heath but if you live and work there it can become a little bit restrictive so its nice to go back to Bournville. It’s like living in a village, I’ve got the green and the old buildings in front of me. It’s quite a different and peaceful vibe.”
So where does the love for music come from? "Like many kids in their teens I got into the music that was around me. Growing up in Birmingham I was exposed to a lot of different sounds and different cultures. I know it's a bit of a cliché but it was a melting pot." Can you remember the first record you bought? "I just found it at my Mom and Dad's the other day, Adam and the Ants “Antmusic”. I was obsessed with Adam Ant. When I was about 10 we went to Butlins for a week on a school trip and I remember hearing it in the disco and
just thinking the drums were incredible. Didn’t they have two drummers? I then went back to his early punk stuff whereas my brother at the time was listening to Shakin' Stevens so I felt like I was cool and he was just, well..." How did you get around that then, separate record players "No we shared one and we had to take it in turns to listen to the albums that we liked.” What was your first album? “Bloody hell, first album? I think it was “Kings of the Wild Frontier” by Adam and the Ants.” Was that your thing then, new wave and early new romantics? "Well I got into UB40 really and Steel Pulse as well. I remember buying UB40's “One in Ten” 7" single which got me into that sort of sound and reggae culture as well listening to dub
and reggae on pirate radio. Then early Duran Duran and early Spandau Ballet when they were more a jazz funk band and from there I got into all sorts. I didn't have any older brothers and sisters so I didn't have that influence so I was just listening to anything, even Big Country and whatever was about." At this point I tell Adam that I quite like Big Country and especially The Skids but Depeche Mode über fan and our photographer Adrian Jones interjects to make sure Mr Regan is a fan of the electronic doom merchants. "I was never a massive fan but I do like them more now than I did then." Adam just scraped through Adrian’s Depeche Mode test. Back to the interview. What took you from being a fan to being actively involved and building a career in music? "It was DJ-ing really. I was friends with a guy who had very rich parents who bought him literally everything he wanted. So I'd go round his house and he had decks, samplers, guitars and a bass so we'd jam and had a little band. Hip Hop made a big impression on me, so listening to things like Public Enemy and De La Soul, Jungle Brothers, a Tribe Called Quest and the Rare Groove scene. There were clubs in Birmingham like Salvation, Anthony’s and Rococo where you’d hear a lot of old 70s tunes mixed in with Soul II Soul and British funk stuff. That got me into more American sounds and American Soul music and then House music came along. It changed a lot of things for a lot of people. I rejected House music at first and I didn’t really like it. It wasn’t until I went to university in Liverpool when someone took me to Quadrant Park which was a big club there playing Italian house music that it hooked me.” Quadrant Park was an infamous Bootle warehouse venue in North Liverpool that specialised in Acid House, Rave and Italo House. The media loved to hate it in what was Ecstasy’s heyday. I tell Adam that I also went to University of Liverpool thinking we could compare our experiences of Merseyside’s club scene. However, Adam left Liverpool after six months mainly, as he says, because he got so heavily into the club scene. That visit to Quadrant Park in Liverpool was something of an epiphany for Regan. He dropped out of university and went back to Birmingham filled with a love and passion for the House music he had previously rejected. Back in Birmingham, drop-out Adam had a year out doing several different jobs and attending House nights at the legendary Snobs. So obsessed with the club scene, Adam re-applied for university in Nottingham mainly, he says, “because I was obsessed with a club there called Venus.” But Nottingham is where it started to take off for Adam Regan. He put on his first club night at Venus in 1992 called Spank (say no more). There was
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
after and we’ve got a great tech spec, and another to run our social media side of things. We’ve built a good team that’s like a family.” The Hare and Hounds is renowned for a great sound and friendly hospitality towards artists and customers alike and both keep coming back. Adam admits he’s had to put up with some diva-ish behaviour: “I try to bite my tongue and not get involved in any petty slanging matches. There’s been times when we’ve had tour managers that have been absolute a***holes but they’ve left and shook our hands and appreciated how we’ve dealt with them.” This coolness under pressure and the facilities available has spread the word that the Hare’ is one of the go-to venues for bands coming to Birmingham, despite it’s suburban location. I ask Adam if he can see himself moving to a city centre location. “Yes that’s definitely my goal in the next few years is to get a bigger venue in the centre. That’s not to say the Hare and Hounds is going anywhere, it’s got a name and it’s got longevity and if we keep running it well there’s no reason it should stop being the place it is. I’ve looked at so many places but it needs to be just right. I nearly went back into the Custard Factory but it wasn’t quite right for me. Watch this space.” Just time for one more question, back to your DJ days, who was the DJ that you sparked off the most? “DJ Dick is a really cool guy and he was a big influence. Dylan Gibbons (Steve Gibbons’ son) also. Outside of Birmingham Giles Peterson was a massive influence and is still to this day. He is very respectful of the past and into pushing new sounds. There is a lot of great new music and Giles is someone that finds it. I still love the old soul music but I’m also interested in new bands too.” Northern Soul, I ask? “I was never a massive fan of Northern Soul but I respect it. I was ore into 70s Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield and disco music. Diana Ross, The Temptations is more where I’m at in terms of soul. Soul can be such a weird word when it comes to music and it can come through in so many different ways. Anything with a good feel.” The music he loves, plays and promotes is a reflection of the man: a good vibe.
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Access to Music by Snowhill station. “ I asked him how he found this classroom, theory based environment compared to mixing with the big names and going round the world playing. “I found being a teacher a very confined and draining experience. I was teaching music business with English and Maths in a music business context and the kids just didn’t want to know. They wanted to programme beats, sing and play guitars which is fair enough. I lasted about two years then an old friend of mine, Rob Wheeler came up with the idea of starting a bar in Birmingham” Was Kings Heath always the first choice? “We looked at the Jug of Ale initially and that would have worked really well; a sort of Hare and Hounds in the centre, and we looked at a few other places like The Old Crown. We put an offer in for the Bulls Head in Moseley and got it. We did it all out and I set about running it on my own. I’d just had twins which meant I had three kids at home and it was just mental. I was working 75-80 hours a week and things went from bad to worse. With the stress of it all I ended up splitting from the mother of my kids and at that time the Hare and Hounds became available”. That obviously wasn’t a good time for you, after what you’ve just told us it would seem like the last thing you’d want to do. “Well at first I thought it was just the wrong time. But my partners at the time persuaded me it was a massive opportunity. To this day I have to hold my hands up and tip my hat to them because they were the ones that persuaded me to do it. We went into a bit of a bidding war with two or three other prospective buyers. One of them wanted to do a similar thing and one of them wanted to turn it into a Chinese buffet which would have been a real loss to the heritage of the music scene in Birmingham.” Do you see the Hare and Hounds as your flagship venue? “Without a shadow of a doubt, yes. I can’t imagine not having this place, I love it. It’s been really good to me and we’ve built up a strong business. We all believe in it and most people here have been here for years, from day one. They’ve seen it grow and develop. More recently people have come on board to make sure the bands are looked
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House music in the basement with Soul, Funk, Jazz and Rare Groove in the upstairs bar. “I did this for three years at university. I didn’t do much work, just partied and put on club nights. I scraped a 2:2 and came out of it with a love for the music and putting on events. I wasn’t seeing much of a financial reward but I was getting such a buzz from doing it.” Adam graduated from university in 1995 and his then girlfriend’s brother had opened the Medicine Bar in Islington. Adam went back and forth as a resident DJ there which opened his eyes to the capital’s club scene. He had made the decision to move there and the day he was due to sign for a flat in Islington an offer came up to get involved with a venture at the Custard Factory in Digbeth. Adam was the assistant manager and his girlfriend did the food. He ended up managing it for three years which got him into putting on events professionally in Birmingham. “It was a great time. We had the Festival of Modern Sounds, Winter Madness, Summer Madness - they were like mini festivals at the Custard Factory. Working with people like Nightmares on Wax, Fabio and Grooverider. It got me into promoting in Birmingham.” In 1998 Adam left and went off as a jobbing DJ from playing the basement at Liberty’s to footballers’ parties. He remembers certain former Villa players out of their heads dancing to 80s soul music. Then he went to Miss Moneypenny’s in Ibiza playing eclectic sets of Hip Hop, Funk and Latin sounds as a mellower alternative to the dominance of House at the time. “I had some good experiences at Moneypenny’s. It taught me a lot about the business and then in 2000 the Medicine Bar told me they were going to turn the empty space next door to into a club. So I went back and we spoke about putting on some nights and that’s when we started Leftfoot, myself and DJ Dick. We did five really good years there booking everyone from Giles Peterson, Mr Scruff and Norman Jay to legends like Lee Scratch Perry, Roots Manuva. It was a big part of my development in making a career.” By 2005 the Medicine Bar had begun to fade. It started to change and Adam felt it had run it’s course plus he’d also just become a father. “I left that and started teaching at a music college for a couple of years,
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St Joseph’s Residential Care Home Coleshill, Warwickshire 60 room elderly residential care home
CARE ASSISTANTS You will carry out individual programmes of care and activities with elderly residents, some of whom may have dementia, in consultation with families, colleagues and other professionals, to promote a quality of service. This will involve carrying out a variety of duties to include personal and intimate care needs. 30 hrs permanent posts paid at £7.01 for day shifts and £7.25 for night shifts. Relief posts also available. For a recruitment pack please telephone 01675 434018 (voicemail) quoting post reference number P935, e-mail personnel@fatherhudsons.org.uk or alternatively visit our website at www.fatherhudsons.org.uk. Closing Date 10th October 2014 Registered Charity No 512992. Equal Opportunities Employer
Registered Charity No 512992 Equal Opportunities Employer
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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Cllr Mick Stanley - Leader of NWBC
Labour must take on UKIP over immigration
The Coleshill Post
Last June, a lot of people in North Warwickshire voted for UKIP in the Euro election without any real idea about their policies. The Tory MP Douglas Carswell from Clacton in Essex has defected to UKIP. The Tories are tearing themselves apart about the EU again but that’s old news. UKIP had an MP many years ago called Spink. Yes Spink. Bob Spink. Never heard of him? Neither had I until recently. He lost his seat in 2010. The fact that you’ve never heard of them him tells you all you need to know about Mr Spink. But what does UKIP stand for? Most people in North Warwickshire have only heard of Nigel Farage; that cheeky chap with grin, a pint and a fag, who doesn’t like Europeans. But what would a UKIP MP really stand for? Basically, we don’t really know because Mr Farage won’t say. There was a UKIP manifesto in 2010 but it was so barmy that even Farage
People in North Warwickshire need to know what UKIP’s Douglas Carswell thinks? has called it “drivel”. But we know what ex Tory MP Douglas Carswell believes, because he wrote a book called “The Plan: 12 Months to Renew Britain”. And we know Nigel Farage has called him “a perfect fit for UKIP”, so it’s important to know what Mr Carswell believes. Firstly, Carswell is anti EU, but not anti immigration. Surprised? Yep. He is a free marketeer. He says bluntly, “On the subject of immigration, let me make it absolutely clear; I’m not against immigration.” He wants us out of the EU, but he believes in a free market in workers. He thinks it helps business by keeping wages down. He is open on tax too. He wants tax-
es lowered for the rich and raised for those on low incomes. He would abolish income tax and have a local sales tax like VAT instead. The reason the poor should pay the same tax as the rich he explains is that “once every household faces a similar size bill for all that government, the question of whether we need it all will be centre stage.” Uhuh. Believe it or not, that’s what he believes. Schools? He is clear: halve government spending on education and let parents can pay through a voucher scheme. That way parents will understand the cost. Schools should be “like supermarkets”. You go in and buy education. In fact he loves supermarkets
so much that he wants it as a model of all public services. Welfare spending should be halved. And he is even more blunt. He wants less money for pensioners. This man has courage. He tells us the state pension should be reduced to cut the national debt. And the NHS? Well, that should be all privatised. Yes. Every last bit of it. No dodging the issue here. The American system is better - at least before that dreadful fellow Obama interfered with it in an effort to help those without money. Those with money should be able to opt out of paying anything for the NHS. He called the NHS the
“national sickness service”. He wants an NHS “run like Tesco’s”. You buy treatment. Can’t pay? Tough. Douglas Carswell is one tough, straight talking politician and he is a true believer. He wants to create the sort of ideal society – if you are a rich London banker. Some might allege he is a right wing fanatic, but others will say he is a man of principle. And Nigel Farage says he is a perfect fit for UKIP. Has Nigel Farage ever read Douglas’s book? I don’t know, but Nigel, who is a rich banker, will laugh, shrug, raise a pint, waive his ciggy around and tell people to vote UKIP anyway. But Nigel will have a problem if Douglas becomes the only UKIP MP. What Douglas thinks will matter. And we know what Douglas thinks from his book. He has told us. Douglas matters and the way he fits with UKIP will matter too. And people in North Warwickshire need to know that Nigel thinks Douglas is “a perfect fit for UKIP”.
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Mary Ann Evans Hospice: Two events fast approaching
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
BY CLLR MICK STANLEY “Completed on time and under budget”. How many public sector organisations can boast that to voters? So let me do some boasting on behalf of North Warwickshire Borough Council because I think we’ve got something to boast about. Before the last council election in 2011 there was a cockamamie proposal North Warwickshire Borough Council would build a new, all singing, all dancing, Council headquarters. This was supposed be done in the middle of a recession. The previous administration spent £100,000 on consultants and drawing up new plans to do it. Quite unfairly Labour dubbed it “Hayfield’s Folly” after the then leader of the Conservative administration. I say ‘unfairly’ because Colin Hayfield had to do something about the state of the old council offices in South Street, Atherstone. Built in the 1970’s the place was creaking. It needed rewiring, reroof and the heating didn’t work properly. It was costing thousands of pounds every year on repairs just to obtain a safety certificate for the offices to operate. Council officials suggested the idea of a new council headquarters and Colin bought into it. Labour thought a better option would be to renovate the old building. We were criticised because it was claimed that this could not be done on time and on budget and it was implied that it would cost more than new offices. Anyway these were the terms of the debate in 2011. I’m pleased to say that we have kept our promise to deliver the renovation on time - and even better, we have delivered it under budget. It’s important to keep promises to voters. Some people think there are no differences and say “They’re all the same” or “They say one thing then do another when they get into power”. Actually politicians do try to keep promises. They don’t always suc-
ceed. In this case we have succeeded. Last week we opened the renovated council offices. The Chief Executive of General Motors Mary Barra once famously said, “My definition of 'innovative' is providing value to the customer”. Well, that is what we set out to do the voters. The building improvement project took 12 months. The aim was to make the building safer, more energy efficient and cheaper to run in the long term. A very important added bonus was that the open plan office design fulfilled our idea of uniting staff from other key public services in one place and retaining them within North Warwickshire. Some other organisations were planning to move out of the borough. In the new building we will share our new offices with over a hundred County Council and Job Centre Plus staff. They now sit near Borough Council colleagues in the offices in South Street. We also have a number of other organisations including the Police, the Credit Union, the British Legion and various NHS services. We have kept the services in the borough and the staff are there to support local businesses. One of the many benefits these changes are also significant financial savings for us and for the other services. We all spend less on offices and that releases money for reinvestment in local public services. And what’s more, all this has been done without raising the Borough Council Tax for three years, despite 40% cuts in government funding. Look at it this way: we promise not to build brand-new council offices and to make do with renovating the old one and we kept our promise on that. We had never promised to do it all without raising the council tax. So, to conclude my boast, I can say, not only have we kept our promise, but we have done better than we promised people. And there are not many local council can say that!
It’s hard to believe that we are nearing the end of the year but the support groups' last two events are fast approaching. On Tues 4th Nov, by popular demand, we are holding another Fashion Show/Clothes Sale at The cam-
eo. The show will begin at 7.30 & tickets are still priced at £3. SatNov 8th is the date for our Table Top Sale & Coffee Morning. This will be held at the United Church on Coventry Rd & will open At 10.0a.m. As ever there will be a wide variety of items on sale & I m
confident that the cakes will be up to their usual very high standard! For tickets or further information, please contact jackie on 01675 465661. Fashion Show tickets will also be on sale at the hospice shop in Chamberlain Walk.
M
INWORTH CLUB & LODGE
What’s on Weekly Monday Carling, Tetleys & Mild £2.50 per pint
Tuesday
Quiz night in Bar- Bingo in Function Room
Wednesday Free Pool
Thursday
Steak Night 8oz Rump & Trimmings £6.00
Friday
Karaoke or Disco
Saturday
Karaoke or Disco
Sunday
Live Football - Bingo in the Function Room Sky Sports All Day Every Day- Live footbal
Bouncy Castle Every Day Weather Permitting
Hold Your Party Here! • • • • • • •
2 Function Rooms • 19 Bedrooms Beer Garden • Large Car Park 18th, 21st 50th Birthdays • Engagements Weddings • Baby Shower Proms • Christenings Presentation Evenings Re-Unions • Late Bar SAT 20TH SEPT - UB4T TRIBUTE SAT 18th OCT- DAMN BUSTERS (SKA) SAT 22nd NOV- BABY LOVE (MOTOWN) SAT 20th DEC- THE BEATLES TRIBUTE
39 Robinsons Way, Sutton Coldfield B76 9BB
Tel:sue.minworth 0121 351 3531
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‘It’s good to keep your promises’
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121 TUITION
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I am a local female teacher / tutor with over 30 years’ experience supporting children with ages ranging from 5-16 years. KS1, 2 & 3 in Literacy, Numeracy and French 11+ entrance tests to Grammar school. KS4 in Maths, English and French. I teach from the comfort of my own dedicated study. Travel open to negotiation.
If you or your child would like a free consultation / lesson to discuss any of the above, please do not hesitate to call me on:
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I look forward to hearing from you
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Attention to detail pays off for local kitchen firm WHEN Rob Carter and Neil Barr decided to take the plunge in to the world of business they had no idea just how successful their venture would be. Using their vast knowledge gained from over 40 years experience within the kitchen industry, the pair have built up a solid customer base supplying and fitting bespoke kitchens. They can supply anything from an entire new fitted kitchen to a single door handle, whatever the customer requires. Rob commented: “I have been in the industry all of my working life. From the smallest companies right up to major suppliers and installers, I have been there and done it. The aim with Central Kitchens is to take all of the good points from my 27 years and incorporate them into a truly unique business. A lot of companies say they can offer anything that the customer wants, but we really can. Whether you are looking to replace a broken door handle, make over your existing units with new doors or need a complete kitchen designed, supplied and installed, we have the capability to cater for every eventuality.” Through their website www.centralkitchens.co.uk, you can purchase single items or entire kitchens, you can also get in touch to arrange a free, no obligation home visit to discuss your needs in more detail.
Neil added: “Each customer is unique, with different requirements. Kitchen makeovers are very popular right now and we supply a lot of replacement doors, worktops, handles, drawer runners etc. We go that extra mile to try and source exactly what is required. We have many satisfied customers and the list is growing.” Mr and Mrs Bound from Curdworth had their kitchen replaced by Central Kitchens in May this year, they told us: “It is always a worry when it comes to choosing a company to carry out such a big project in your home. Central Kitchens came highly recommended and I have to say, they did not disappoint. Right from the start they were so professional, they advised us on the best materials, colour schemes, layouts etc, and the installation went so smoothly we hardly knew they were there, everything on schedule and as promised. The quality of the product is also second to none. I would recommend Central Kitchens to anybody without any hesitation.” When deciding which company to use to supply or install your kitchen it is always good to look for a local firm and with the exceptional reputation that Rob and Neil have worked hard to establish you will certainly be impressed with Central Kitchens. Their knowledge, experience and attention to detail, including customer service, is second to none. Visit www.centralkitchens.co.uk and see for yourself, a local firm offering an outstanding service.
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Quality kitchens at affordable prices! At Central Kitchens we make the finest fully fitted kitchens at the lowest price! Our high quality kitchens are affordable and of the latest styles and designs. We supply and install our quality kitchens throughout the UK from our central base in the Midlands.
Call us today on 0121 246 4567 or 07939875863 for FREE advice on your next quality kitchen - we are happy to help!
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Finding a Better Interest rate
BY PHIL SALINAS
WITH the housing market now improving and the likelihood of the Bank of England increasing base rate in the near future it is becoming more important for existing mortgage borrowers to look at what interest rate they are paying. As borrowers have come to the end of their initial deal with their lender and whilst some have remortgaged to a new lender or agreed a new deal with their existing lender, an increasing number have taken no action and now their mortgage rate is based on either the lenders standard variable rate or linked to Bank of England base rate. Lenders standard variable rates vary anything from 2.5% up to 6.59% with mainstream lenders with the majority sitting somewhere between 4 & 5%. Prior to the credit crunch this would not
have appeared to be a bad deal but depending on the amount of equity in your property you can most likely improve on these rates. For those linked to the bank of England base rate the rate enjoyed can be anything from a below base rate to several % above depending on what the terms of their deal when they took the mortgage out. For these customers the mortgage can be very competitive in the current market but depending on how small or large the margin is over base rate will determine whether as interest rates rise this continues to true. Therefore whether your mortgage is linked to Bank of England base rate or on a lenders standard variable rate it is important to now look at what rate you are paying and consider whether to remortgage to a fixed rate before interest rates rise. Before you make this decision you need to consider whether you intend to move house, need to borrow more money for home improvements or some other purpose or if you are likely to receive a large sum
of money with which you could repay your mortgage. These are not the only things to consider but are some of the keys points. The rate you will be able to get will be based on the amount of equity you have in your home i.e the difference between its value and what you owe on your mortgage. Even with as little as 10% equity there are 2 year fixed rates available which are below most lenders variable rates and 5 year fixed rates in the mid range of variable rates. Therefore if you do not have much equity you can at least protect yourself against future increases in mortgage costs and depending on who your existing lender is may even save some money. With just 15% equity there are a few 5 year fixed rates under 4% so not only saving money against a lot of lenders variable rate but also giving you peace of mind over future interest rate rises. I have worked in Financial Services for over 25 years and the last 8 years specialising in providing independent mortgage advice and have built
up a large amount of knowledge as well as personal contacts with the majority of lenders. This means that I am kept well informed of changes lenders introduce and have people who can help support placing mortgage applications successfully. A professional service is important to me and I always try to do whatever I can to make obtaining a mortgage as straightforward as possible. Therefore if you are looking for a new mortgage or have a mortgage deal expiring shortly then please contact me and I will be happy to help. In all cases we charge a fee for mortgage arrangement of ÂŁ195 on completion of the transaction plus any commission paid by the lender. Alternatively, you can choose to pay a fee of 1% of the mortgage amount subject to a minimum of ÂŁ995 and receive the commission from the lenders Coleshill Mortgage Services Ltd 01675 467196/ 07795630520 Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Coleshill Mortgage Services Limited
01675 467196 0 07795 6btc3on0ne5ct.2com phil.salinas@
mortgages Buying a property can be the biggest decision made in our lives. It is for this very reason that impartial advice is critical from qualified advisers.
coleshillmortgages.co.uk In all cases we charge a fee for mortgage arrangement of ÂŁ195 on completion of the transaction plus any commission paid by the lender. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
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WANTED
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Properties in Coleshill, Water Orton, Castle Bromwich and surrounding areas.
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THE CEDARS, STATION ROAD, ARLEY
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• An extended spacious detached bungalow a desirableLocation, location •Double Double Glazed An Extended Spacious Detached Bungalow In AinDesirable GlazedPorch Porch, • Spacious Reception Hall • Through Lounge • Summer Room / Family Room • Fitted Kitchen Spacious Reception Hall, Through Lounge, Summer Room / Family Room, Fitted Kitchen, Utility • Utility Room • Two Double Bedrooms • Tiled Bathroom With Separate Shower • UPVC Double Room,Glazed Two Double Bedrooms, With •Separate Shower, UPVC Double Glazed, • Centrally Heated • Tiled BlockBathroom paved driveway Garage • Rear Garden With Open Views Centrally Heated, Block paved driveway, Garage, Rear Garden With Open Views
£285,000 £285,000
4 Fairview, HighSTREET, Street, Coleshill 4 FAIRVIEW, HIGH COLESHILL
• Second flatReception • Reception Hall • Lounge • FittedFitted Kitchen Kitchen, • One Bedroom Second Floorfloor Flat, Hall, Lounge, One• Bathroom Bedroom, • Attic Room Heated • Allocated Parking • Extended Lease On Completion Bathroom, Attic• Majority Room,Centrally Majority Centrally Heated., Allocated Parking, Extended Lease On Completion
£119,950 £119,950
3 Weland Close, Water Orton HEATH 3 YEW TREE FARM COTTAGE, WHITACRE
OLD
S
A Much Improved & Extended Semi Detached Family Home, UPVC Double Glazed Porch, Recep• Semi detached family home • Cul-De-Sac Location • Double Glazed Porch • Reception Hall tion Hall, Lounge, “L” Shape Fitted Dining Kitchen, Fitted Cloaks, UPVC Double Glazed Conservato• Lounge/Dining Room • Fitted Kitchen with Integrated Appliances • Three Bedrooms ry, Master Bedroom With En-suite Bathroom, Family Bathroom, • Fitted Bathroom • Centrally Heated Three • UPVCFurther DoubleDouble Glazed •Bedrooms, Secluded Rear Garden Central Heating, Glazing, IntegralDouble Garage,Garage Off Road Parking, With Open Views • OffDouble Road Parking • Tandem • New Cavity Rear Wall &Garden Loft Insulation
£345,000 £197,500
18 Penns Lane,
18 PENNS LANE, Coleshill COLESHILL
OLD
S LD SO • Mid town house having convenient location Mid Town House Having Convenient • Reception Lounge • Fitted Kitchen Location, Reception Lounge, Fitted Kitchen, • Three Bedrooms • Bathroom • Centrally Heated •Bathroom, UPVC Double Glazed Three Bedrooms, UPVC Double • GardensHeated, Front & Rear Glazed, Centrally Gardens Front & • Garage in Separate Block
Rear, Garage in Separate Block
£170,000 £170,000
DUEto TOaAhuge HUGE Due increase INCREASE in INsales SALESwe WE need NEEDmore MORE properties PROPERTIES CALLnow NOWfor FOR Call YOURfree FREE your VALUATION valuation 31 Doris Rd, 31 DORIS ROAD, Coleshill COLESHILL
D L O S
SOLD
• Extended semi detached family home Extended Semi Detached Home,Hall UPVC • UPVC Double Glazed PorchFamily • Reception Porch, Reception Hall,Fitted Lounge, •Double LoungeGlazed • Dining Room • Extended Dining Kitchen • Three Bedrooms Dining Room, Extended Fitted Dining Kitchen, • En-suite Shower Room • Tiled Bathroom Three Bedrooms, En-suite Shower Room, • Shower RoomShower • UPVC Room, DoubleUPVC Glazed Tiled Bathroom, Double • Centrally Heated • Large Block Paved Glazed, Driveway Centrally Heated, Large Block Paved • Rear Garden
Driveway, Rear Garden
£199,950 £199,950
45 Windleaves Rd, Castle Bromwich NEW • NEW • NEW • NEW • NEW • NEW
48 WALL AVENUE, COLESHILL
DRS L O S H 4
IN 2
A First Floor Flat Ideal For The First Time Buyer Or Investor, Communal Entrance, Reception Hall, Lounge Kitchen, One Bedroom, Bathroom, UPVC Double Glazed, Economy Heating, Communal Gardens
£99,950
SINO24LHRDS
• Semi detached family home • UPVC Double Glazed Porch • Reception Hall • Lounge • Dining Room • Fitted Kitchen • Utility Area • Three Double Bedrooms • Shower Room • UPVC Double Glazed • Centrally Heated • Garage • Off Road Parking
£185,000
3 Yew Tree • Farm Cottage, NEW • NEW NEW • NEWWhitacre • NEW •Heath NEW
3 WELAND CLOSE, WATER ORTON
Semi Detached Family Home, CulDe-Sac Location, Double Glazed Porch, Reception Hall, Lounge/ Dining Room, Fitted Kitchen with Integrated Appliances, Three Bedrooms, Fitted Bathroom, Centrally Heated, UPVC Double Glazed, Secluded Rear Garden, Off Road Parking, Tandem Double Garage New Cavity Wall & Loft Insulation • A much improved & extended semi detached family home • UPVC Double Glazed Porch
SOLD
£197,000
• Reception Hall • Lounge • “L” Shape Fitted Dining Kitchen • Fitted Cloaks • UPVC Double Glazed Conservatory • Master Bedroom With En-suite Bathroom • Three Further Double Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Central Heating • Double Glazing • Integral Garage • Off Road Parking • Rear Garden With Open Views
£345,000
220 Station Road, Whitacre Heath
THIS SPACE COULD BE YOUR PROPERTY, CALL NOW FORLYOUR FREE D SO AND TO HEAR VALUATION ABOUT OUR REDUCED FEES, WE HAVE BUYERS & TENANTS WAITING • A detached family home in a rural location • Double Glazed Porch • Reception Hall • Fitted Cloaks • Through Lounge With Dining Area •Kitchen • Lean To • Four Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Majority Centrally Heated • Majority UPVC Double Glazed • Balcony Views • Rear Garden To Open Countryside • Two Garages • Off Road Parking
£349,950
enquiries@firstchoiceproperty.co.uk www.firstchoiceproperty.co.uk CALL DENNIS R WALKER INSURANCES TODAY! For your Buildings/Contents or Landlord’s Insurance! 01675 462682 Email: sales@walkerinsurances.co.uk
The Coleshill Post
The Cedars, Station Road, PROPERTY OF THE WEEK • PROPERTY OFArley THE WEEK
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost The Coleshill Post
Buying a property can be the biggest decision made in our lives. It is for this very reason that impartial advice is critical from qualified advisers.
Mortgages, Remortgages and Buy To Let mortgages We also arrange: Life Insurance, Critical Illness and Income Protection Buildings & Contents Insurance
Coleshill Mortgage Services Limited 01675 467196 / 07795 630520 phil.salinas@btconnect.com
coleshillmortgages.co.uk In all cases we charge a fee for mortgage arrangement of ÂŁ195 on completion of the transaction plus any commission paid by the lender. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
CALL DENNIS R WALKER INSURANCES TODAY! For your Buildings/Contents or Landlord’s Insurance! 01675 462682 Email: sales@walkerinsurances.co.uk
www.thecoleshillpost.co.uk
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
CHINA CABINETS, DRAW LEAF TABLES, BUREAUX, BEDROOM SUITES
GOLD AND SILVER 9ct,Bought 18ct, 22ct Wedding Rings in any Condition. Try to find that broken piece of gold. Turn it into CASH today. Even the smallest bits of GOLD bought for CASH
GOLD WATCH CHAINS WANTED ANY CONDITION I offer to buy GOLD and SILVER JEWELLERY from damaged to fine antique pieces. All types of old watches wanted working or not ANY CONDITION ROLEX WATCHES WANTED TOP PRICES PAID
RING NOW FOR DETAILS All Items Bought For Cash
Any of the following items in any condition bought for cash: Old clocks and watches, tables, chairs, cabinets, bookcases, chest of drawers, blanket chests, writing desks, corner cupboards, music stands, hall stands, play stands, overmantles, lloyd loom chairs, bedroom and dining suites, mirrors, writing boxes, inkwells, stuffed animals, old dolls, tea caddies and tin plate toys, old coloured glassware, china, pottery, oil lamps, barometers, old copper, brass, pewter items, military ware, violins, cellos, fountain pens, old lighters, scales, microscopes, old lace and linen, trinket sets, plant pots, bowler hats, etc… etc…
Self Contained Office/Workshop 18 metres x 7 metres
Coton Road Whitacre Heath Near Coleshill B46 2HJ
½ Acre Secure Compound for Parking/Storage
Hardstanding with palisade perimeter fencing, electric gates and 24 hour CCTV coverage
60m x 30m Compound for Parking/Storage
Hardstanding with palisade perimeter fencing 24 hour CCTV coverage
24/7 Commercial Parking
Cars, Trucks, Trailers (ADR APPROVED) A superbly positioned site with 24/7 access just 3 miles from J9 of the M42 and M6 Toll Road motorway networks. The Cedars offers a secure base with 24 hour CCTV coverage. Most compounds and other areas are floodlit at night. Additional facilities include Vehicle Wash plus Stacker Truck and 30 Tonne Mobile Crane hire. The site also boasts full washroom facilities including showers and a well established, friendly café. The site is also certified to offer ADR approved parking. The Landlords are both approachable & flexible. Please call for further information and to arrange a visit for viewing. Call Ruth Bridges Mob: 07836 512241
Tel: 01675 470237 Fax: 01675 470537
J.Roberts (SPV) Ltd jroberts-spv@btinternet.com
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CALL DENNIS R WALKER INSURANCES TODAY! For your Buildings/Contents or Landlord’s Insurance! 01675 462682 Email: sales@walkerinsurances.co.uk
The Coleshill Post
HOUSE CLEARANCES
The Cedars
@ColeshillPost
BARRY JOHN
COMMERCIAL OFFICES STORAGE & PARKING TO LEASE
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost
Gardening Phil Page
Member of British Association of Landscape Industries
The Coleshill Post
Container Colour for Autumn
Coleshill Mowing provide a wide range of grounds maintenance services for both domestic and commercial customers.
• Grasscutting • Tree Work • Hedge Trimming • Green Waste Removal • Turfing • Gardens Cleared Other aspects of garden work undertaken
Please call mobile 07974 723906 or office 01675 482910 for a quotation
CONTAINERS are a vital ingredient in our gardens for a variety of reasons. They not only provide a focal point in our designs but can also liven up an otherwise dull or ‘problem’ area. They provide an opportunity to grow a species of plant that would otherwise not thrive in the type of soil and they are a useful ‘filler’ in a mixed or herbaceous border when gaps appear as some perennials reach the end of their season. Now that autumn is upon us we can still ensure that we have colour in our gardens by planting up some containers and placing them to the best effect. I’m going to suggest some ‘stand alone’ plants or shrubs and leave combination ideas for a later date.
These ‘stand alone’ or single species container plans flower in the late summer or will provide some colour or interest until winter: Hydrangeas: Always popular and a spectacular late summer flowerer. The Moped varieties look better in pots than the lacecaps in my opinion. Remember that blue hydrangeas need ericaeous compost! Sedums: These come into their own in autumn but even after they have finished flowering you can leave the heads on as they still look good when frosted. Try varieties such as ‘Matrona, ‘Ruby Glow’ or ‘Spectabile’ Iceberg’. Skimmias: A favourite of
A&D
mine and a fairly trouble-free and reliable small shrub which can tolerate some shade. They flower in the spring and the female plant bears red berries in autumn. ‘Spikey Plants’: Not a botanical term but a descriptive once for plants such as ‘Phormium tenax’ and ‘Yucca filamentosa’. These bear long (and sharp!) sword like leaves. Some varieties have striped leaves. Yuccas are really dramatic. Ill be back in a months time with (by request) a ‘to do’ list for gardeners ready to prepare for the winter months. Until then, enjoy the onset of autumn colours!
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Spooky Bats and Owls Coleshill Library
The Coleshill Post
VACANCY
@ColeshillPost
COLESHILL TOWN COUNCIL
PARKS RANGER –
Local Government - Salary Scale 2. 20 hours per week (hours negotiable). A vacancy has arisen at Coleshill Town Council. The Parks Ranger role is part-time, hours predominantly over Friday to Monday, including the weekend. The role requires a basic knowledge of parks and gardens maintenance, some repairs skills and the confidence to respond to enquiries from, and liaise with, the general public. Candidates should be able to drive and be flexible with regard to the part time contract, which might be offered on an “Annualised Hours” basis. A local knowledge of Coleshill would be an advantage. For an application pack, please email zoe@coleshilltowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01675 463326.
Friday 31st October 10.30 am - 12.00 noon
Find out all about the nocturnal animals that come alive at night, like bats and owls! Make a Halloween decoration and an owl mask, and meet some of Warwickshire Museum’s natural history specimens face to face.
Closing date for applications is 26th September. Interview dates likely to be 8th October.
How to look after your lawn during the autumn and winter months! Autumn Treatment September onwards PERHAPS the most important fertiliser treatment of the year is applied during this period. It is designed to maintain the colour and strength in the grass throughout the winter months plus feed the correct balance of nutrients to ensure the plant is healthy from the roots right up to the tip. In addition to providing the correct seasonal feed to the grass plant, it is also essential to control the moss that starts to bloom in this traditionally wet time of the year. Moss thrives in damp conditions so we recommend the application of moss control and the scarification of the lawn to ensure the health of the grass sward. This will remove dead moss and thatch from the lawn and allow oxygen and moisture to penetrate the root zone. If poor drainage is an issue on your lawn then maybe hollow tine aeration should be considered to ensure the best immediate absorption of rain fall into the root zone rather than pooling on the top!
New Winter Treatments These days, moss has become the biggest invasive issue in many lawns so we recommend the application of moss control three times per annum, Spring, Autumn and now during the Winter
months (December/January/February). As the months become colder there is a need to continue to care for your lawn, the application of a liquid product that, as well as targeting moss also provides essential plant nutrients and can keep fungal disease activity at bay. In addition to these recommendations, there are other actions you must remember to carry out over the next 4/5 months. Remove leaves from the lawn area – they could introduce disease to the lawn, stop the growth of grass and lead to bare patches in the lawn Ensure all over hanging tree branches and bushes are pruned back to allow as much light and air as possible into the lawn area during the winter months. Keep off your lawn if there is an overnight frost- wait until the sun burns off the frost before walking on it. Keep cutting the lawn IF it needs it – if we have a mild winter the grass will continue to grow. Keep the grass at a consistent length over the Autumn and Winter, 3 inches or 7.5cm in height. Don’t cut the grass when it’s wet, this will damage your mower and stress the grass. If you need any further advice please feel free to contact us at Greensleeves Lawncare for a no obligation quote for our services 01675 430479
Tickets must be booked in advance in person and may be limited. Cost: £2.50 per child. Sessions are suitable for school-aged children. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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✔ Cheaper & safer than DIY ✔ 1000’s of satisfied customers ✔ No contract
Call Now for a FREE No Obligation Quote
01675 430479 Freephone: 0808 1001413 • www.greensleeves-uk.com
Greensleeves Lawncare are proud to be associated with Coleshill Town Football Club and help maintain their pitches and surroundings.
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost
MIDLANDS EMERGENCY RESPONSE community first responders PREsENts...
The Coleshill Post
SATURDAY 27th SEPTEMBER 2014
COLESHILL TOWN HALL 9.00am - 4.00pm
EmERgENCy sERviCEs will bE iN attENdaNCE duRiNg thE day.
Come along and learn some valuable Life-Saving Skills! refreshments will be available from coleshill ladies circle
www.mercfr.org Registered Charity No. 1155553
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost
WIN AT DREAMERS!
The Coleshill Post
Wiith every meal at Dreamers you stand a chance With Laurent of winning inning a bottle of La rent Perrier Rose Champagne (Worth £70*) or a Meal for Two. Ch A draw dra will be held at the end of the last day of each month.
Starters
Dahi Kachori with Sprouted Beans Bohri Paneer Samosa Samosa Prawn Aubergine Kharphatla Mussel Rasam Bhajiela Calamari Green Peppercorn Malai Tikka Scallop Lonche with Rocket Leaves & Potato Dreamers Chicken Kebab Lamb Salli
Tandoori Speacial
Green peppercorn malai Tikka Jumbo Prawns in Pomergranate Seeds & Dill Gymkhana Lamb Chops Monk Fish Tikka Tandoori Mix Grill Lamb Tikka Chicken Tikka Paneer Tikka Tandoori Chicken
Biryani
Bhujung Biryani
Main Courses
Khyber Pass Raan Ghatti Lamb Malabar Chicken Curry Karwari Fish Curry Lobster Balchao Fish Shirale Duck Chettinad Chicken Makhanai Chicken Miravna Kerala Chicken Stew Saffron Chicken Korma Dreamers Chicken Jalfrezi Pansee Dhansak Goan Chicken Massala
These are dishes from our specials menu. There are many more dishes available on our full menu.
COLESHILL
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
Buffet Every Sunday
Indian Cuisine
We would like you to join us on Sunday for a buffet. We have a variety of different dishes including starters, curries, rice, nan breads and much more.
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Eat as much as you like Adult £9.95 Child £3.95
146 High Street, Coleshill B46 3BG
FREE DELIVERY SERVICE (Min order of £10 within a 4 mile radius)
Sunday to Thursday: 5.30pm to 11.00pm Friday & Saturday: 5.30pm to 11.30pm
Tel: 01675 467789 Tel: 01675 238698 www.dreamersindiancuisine.co.uk
The Hub, Town Hall, High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BG
01675 238309
VACANCY
Community Shed Project Officer The Coleshill Community Partnership Shed Project aims to provide unemployed people with new skills and improved confidence enabling them to access the employment market. The project will be based on the allotment site in a purpose built shed to allow small groups to spend time working together outdoors to help them realise their potential and assist them back into work. The Coleshill Community Partnership is looking to recruit an approachable and understandable person to the role of Community Shed Project Officer. The ideal candidate will have experience of working with vulnerable people and volunteers. This project aims to get people back into employment so experience of providing employment support would be beneficial. The Coleshill Community Partnership is a small independent charity based at Coleshill Town Hall. The charity has three clear objectives: • To improve access to services for local residents and businesses • To improve local health and wellbeing • To improve the local skill base and provide access to employment
The role will be based on site at the Stonebridge Road allotment site in Coleshill with desk space provided at our Hub at Coleshill Town Hall. Applications are invited from people with a friendly and bubbly personality, who have experience of working with vulnerable people and volunteers, who have knowledge of gardening/planting and growing and whom have worked in a customer focused environment. To apply please complete an application form available from • The Hub, Town Hall, High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BG • By email from helen@ coleshillcommunitypartnership.org.uk Copies of the job description, person specification and salary can be found on www.coleshillhub.org.uk or by dropping into the Hub at the Town Hall. Note: Closing date for this position is 5pm on Friday 26th September 2014. Interviews will take place w/b 29th September.
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WE ARE HERE
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost The Coleshill Post
Love Coleshill
The fabulous French Market returns to Coleshill
The French Market Traders returned to Coleshill on Sunday 14th September to a warm welcome from locals and lots of visitors from further afield such as Tamworth and Sutton Coldfield. Selling a huge variety of products including freshly baked pastries and bread, cheeses, cold meats, crepes, biscuits, belts, bags, olives and Turkish delight, carpets, clothing, not to mention hot food such as traditional ‘garlic prawns’ and choucroute. The stalls were beautifully presented and decorated with the usual French flair. Chairman of the consortium of ‘France at Home’ Traders Dominique said: ‘We have had a great day and we are looking forward to coming back next year.’ The setting on the croft at the back of the high street next to the church was perfect and the weather held. The Parish Church opened its doors after morning service and sold refreshments, encouraged people to visit the church tower and have a go at ringing the bells! There were also a variety of stalls such as second hand books, bric-a-brac and DIY. Many of the shops and cafes in the town
were open for business and were encouraged by the influx of visitors – one member of the public stated ‘the high street is busier today than on a Saturday!’ Another ‘The garlic prawns are the best I’ve ever tasted’ There was a great atmosphere in the town and lots of the high street traders entered into the spirit of the day by hanging French bunting and flags, red, white and blue balloons and the bookshop had a selection of French themed books in the window! A spokesperson for Love Coleshill Marie Stephenson who organises the market every year said ‘We love to bring people to the town for our events and this is certainly hugely popular. Thank you to everyone who helped to make the day such a success.’ Love Coleshill will be booking another date for the French Market Traders to return to the town in 2015 so if you would like to know when why not keep up to date by visiting the calendar on their web site. The calendar also lists lots of events local to Coleshill such as the ‘The last night of the Proms’ from Coleshill Town Band on 20th September, a fashion show from Glitzy Bits Boutique, Bargains from Yesteryear, a tabletop sale and ‘Songs from the Shows’ in aid of Mary Ann Evans Hospice.
Why not sign up to the mailing list? The Love Coleshill cart and volunteers were greeting visitors at the entrance to St Peter’s walk by the Lichgate on the High Street and selling their ‘Bags for Life’ as well as promoting their members. Consortium members pay £10 per month to help the cause and promote themselves through the web site, the dedicated notice board at Morrison’s, regular e-shots to the database of nearly 900 people and on Facebook.
They also have a free listing in the Coleshill Post every month and the opportunity to reach more people through the Loyalty Card and Gift Vouchers schemes. Treasurer Rosalie Whitehead of One-Off Interiors said: ‘We would love for all local businesses to join and support our cause to help us to promote the town and encourage local loyalty.’ Staffs at the newly opened Visitor Centre in the Old Market Hall were thrilled with the turn out and had already counted
350 visitors by 2pm! The pop up fruit and vegetable stall sold out of produce! The French twinning Committee also had a great day and invite anyone who is interested in joining to contact them – visit www.coleshilltwinning.co.uk Love Coleshill would like to say a special MERCI BEAUCOUP to all who supported the event and especially to the traders who travel over to England every week to sell their wares! Email:info@lovecoleshill.co.uk
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost
Thom Hodkinson
Thom on Film: Robin Williams (1961-2014)
Tributes poured in for the tortured soul who provided so much laughter and joy over a career spanning 4 decades, and I for one am deeply saddened that he is no longer around. Upon hearing the news late that night, I though back to the body of work that had not only entertained me but shaped and moulded my sense of humour. I remember that trademark energy and timing from the hit TV Show “Mork & Mindy” where his portrayal of the alien Mork from Ork gave him the international
attention that he held onto for many years to come. His unique style spoke volumes to me, as it did to so many others. Just looking over some of his Stand-Up comedy routines on YouTube, you can see just how impossibly brilliant his performances were. His roles in childrens films like “Aladdin”,” Hook”, “Jumanji”, “Jack”, “Flubber”, “Happy Feet” and even forgotten classics like “Toys” and “Ferngully: The Last Rainforest” gave him full appeal to whole families and also implanted him in the memories of children across the World for generations. But make no mistake, Williams was not just a one-man machine-gun of gags. His more fascinating roles come from more serious, sometimes dark scripts. My first instance of this is “Good
Morning, Vietnam” where he combines the comedy and the tragedy in an astonishing balance, much like how TV Series “M*A*S*H” had done several years previous. His performance as a military radio DJ who injected some light-hearted fun in a devastating war zone is truly spectacular and really helped Williams shine as a serious dramatic actor rather than just a clown. He continued to prove this with films such as “Dead Poets Society” and his award-winning turn in “Good Will Hunting”. There’s even a deep note in comedy “Mrs Doubtfire” (another staple from my childhood) where he conveys a man so heartbroken at losing custody of his kids that he’d go to extraordinary lengths to see them as much as possible. In 2002, he gave Hollywood the creeps as
Seymour Parrish in the brilliantly un-nerving “One Hour Photo”, a film about a lonely photo lab employee who becomes obsessed with the family of a regular customer. It’s so chilling, so odd and surreal that you can barely recognise the star, a sign of pure talent and excellence. My favourite Robin Williams film though is one that I will never be able to look at in the same way again. “World’s Greatest Dad”, released in 2009, tells the story of Lance Clayton, a failed writer and English teacher (Williams) who’s thoughtless, pervert son accidentally commits suicide. Lance then takes it upon himself to draft a suicide note that leads his school, community and eventually the whole of America to believe that his son is a misunder-
stood soul with deep, dark feelings. Not exactly a laugh-out-loud comedy like his earlier works, I find myself wondering if anyone could bring the likeable gravity to the role that Robin Williams did, and I find it impossible to imagine anyone better. Whether you know him best for “The Fisher King” or “Patch Adams” or “Night at the Museum”, it really doesn’t matter. The fact is that a unique and loveable individual battled with his inner-demons and lost. A man who I, and millions of others grew up admiring has gone and most of us never got to thank him. Thank you Robin for every joke or funny voice and for every hard-hitting moment that you gave to the world. We’ll miss you.
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The Coleshill Post
ON August 11th, the Worlds of Cinema, Comedy and Entertainment as a whole were shook to hear that beloved actor and funny man Robin Williams has died, aged 63.
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost The Coleshill Post
Motoring Cars can be an investment Phil Costello
If you’re a car nut or not you will be able to ring off every car you have owned, even to the nights of borrowing your dad’s different cars. Some may recall attempting to drive
back out of a ditch from their first hand brake turn whereas others may have fell in love for the first time in a car. The car is a part of our lives and when you’re young it is your life. With four wheels and a combustion engine you are finally free. Free from Coronation Street, chores, babysitting and evening board games. You jump in your car just a normal teenager but once your moving you are now the captain and with your mates on board the whole world is in grasp, well the
parts of the world you can get to with the tenner you all scraped together in your tank. Now these memories are one of two reasons why you and me will one day be trawling through the classifieds, trying to find that bit of history that was either crashed, scrapped or sold and boy do the owners of today know it. Right now let’s play a game. Name your first car……done? Right now have a look on Autotrader or Pistonheads and take a look at its price tag. This may not work for everyone but I bet either you or your dads first car in good condition is worth a fortune. In 12 years my first motorbike doubled in price. How many of you scrapped a rotting mini or Land Rover 15 years ago, yep bad move as some are fetch-
“ Right now let’s play a
game. Name your first car……done? Right now have a look on Autotrader or Pistonheads and take a look at its price tag.
”
ing as high as 10k and 20k. Let’s mix
£800. It’s now worth just under three
it up a bit, who remembers pootling
grand. For the more wealthy of people
around on a Yamaha FZ1 bought for
out there a McLaren F1 in 1994 cost
£300. A friend of mine did and sold
£550,000 but if you wanted to buy one
it 12 years ago after restoring it for
now you would have had to bid against
a Brit who just handed over six million pounds. Now, as they say hindsight’s a Bit@h, so your goal is to work out what car will be a future classic. Who knows if that low mileage Fiat Coupe 5 cylinder turbo will be worth 5X the amount you paid in 10 years or an original Range Rover Classic could pay for your child’s house deposit in 15 years’ time. Just think with a bit of time spent researching on what took off like the MK1 Ford Escort Mexico and what didn’t like the dreaded Lada Riva you could end up with a gem worth a whole lot of money one day. By the way im going for either a TVR sagaris, a Datsun 240z or for one I could actually afford, the Rover Metro turbo. See you on Ebay
DERBI 125CC... £1,495.00
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CALL DENNIS R WALKER INSURANCES TODAY! For your Private Motor or Commercial Van/Fleet Insurance! 01675 462682 Email: sales@walkerinsurances.co.uk
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Canine Care There are many reasons that dogs end up in a pound or rescue but I believe most are there due to their owners not understanding the needs of the dog. It is very tempting when faced with a cute puppy or an
sonality, problems, space and time
Deciding to own a dog is a “huge decision so make sure you talk to your family and friends. There is a lot of information available on the internet and there are hundreds of books you can buy.
insistent child to give in with out doing your homework.
limitations. If you take a good hard look at your family’s situation, you can match a dog that will fit into your lives nicely and not just make things more awkward and difficult. Are you bothered by hair on everything? Some breeds shed heavily, while others hardly shed at all. Do
”
you have children? Are you going to have children? Do you have friends who visit your home who have children? Are you prepared to learn how to teach your child how to display
you afford the added expense? If
dog behaviour? Are you willing to
you get a dog, it is a life-long com-
invest the time it takes? A dog’s
mitment, and should not be treated
temperament is a direct result of the
like a piece of furniture that you can
owner’s ability to understand him
just dispose of when you get tired
and give him what he instinctually
sponsibility? Do you honestly have
of it. After all, this dog will be part
needs as a canine animal. What kind
the time to take care of a dog? Are
of your family. Are you prepared
of dog should you get? Choosing a
information available on the inter-
you prepared to spend the next
to accept the fact that dogs are not
dog based purely on its look is a bad
net and there are hundreds of books
10-15 years of your life taking care
humans and invest some time into
decision, some people think a dog
you can buy. I could not be without
of your dog? Because that is about
learning how to properly treat your
is a dog. There are many different
my dogs. They are my friends and
how long your dog will live. Are you
dog in order to keep him or her bal-
breeds with many different needs.
my family. Just remember they are
prepared to walk it every day? Can
anced. Do you understand natural
Every family has its own needs, per-
a luxury not a necessity.
If your ever thinking of owning a dog ask yourself the following questions: Do you know what you are getting into? Are you prepared for the re-
Coleshill WI’s elegant afternoon tea party
Coleshill WI staged an elegant afternoon tea for members and friends at the Council Room on August 12th. Although originally scheduled to take place in the caretaker’s
colourful garden beside the Town Hall, rain showers drove the guests indoors where they enjoyed scones with cream, homemade jam, a variety of cakes and finger sandwiches, immaculately served by Town Hall caretaker
Deanna Baker, four of her grandchildren and great nieces aged from 7 upwards and her sister Margaret Burrell. One grandson Jake Foster, 14, who recently passed his piano exam with Distinction provided entertainment with a variety of piano pieces including an accomplished improvisation on 'Theme from the Titanic' and was warmly applauded. Gill Tyers ran a quiz with each answer a person’s name and the guests also enjoyed a free raffle. The next meeting is on September 9th when the speaker Jo Carter will give a talk entitled ‘Top to Toe – the price of Vanity.’ The competition is for an unusual scarf. October’s speaker will give a talk on the work of Water Aid and the competition is for a poem with the opening line: “Water, water everywhere...” Visitors welcome as always.
leadership toward the dog? Do you mind holes being dug in your garden? Deciding to own a dog is huge decision so make sure you talk to your family and friends. There is a lot of
Local Coleshill Roofing Company are looking to recruit for a position in the office covering the following duties:
Office Assistant Answering phone and taking messages. Basic accounts matching of invoices and ultimately entering onto SAGE accounts software (training can be provided). Setting up of new suppliers accounts. Completing new contractor applications. Maintaining sub-contractor files. Plus other basic admin duties including typing of letters, photocopying, sorting of post etc. A knowledge of payroll might be useful eventually but not essential. Will need to be conversant with Office especially Word and Excel . Must be prepared to be flexible as we are a small friendly office Training where necessary will be provided.
Hours: 9.00 till 1pm Mon to Fri (20 hour week) Salary: £10,000
Email : sarah.casewell@jmgroofing.co.uk We are looking to recruit for job commencement 1st October 2014.
The Coleshill Post
Dogs are one of the most popular pets in our homes. Owning a dog can be very rewarding. However the amount of dogs in need of a home increases by the day.
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Victoria Hemming
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Dear sir I read in your recent edition of the Coleshill post That our MP Dan Byers is not to stand for re-election in 2015 and will be leaving his position in government. I would to thank him for his dedication to his constituents in the work and time he and his excellent secretary Sandy have given in our opposition to the Hs2 and wish him every success in whatever future career he decides to follow which I am sure he will achieve. I read with interest the remarks made by Cllr Mick Stanley who I have never seen at any of the many forum meetings I attended in our opposition to the HS2. Regards Sue Hadley
Dear Editor, I thought the function of NWBC was to "improve" the "quality of life" for its communities, like Coleshill? A place where people want to live, work & visit. A place which is safe & inclusive & good services for all. Now, "potentially" they want to approve the "destruction" of Coleshill, with the approval of a large storage & distribution site at Daw Mill Colliery. At present, the cross roads at the Green Man Pub is extremely busy. Pedestrians have to be alert & agile, to cross the road. Then you factor-in, a 40 ton HGV container lorry, wanting to cross the road, every minute. These "high-sided" vehicles, reduce visability & when pulling away in first gear, the exhaust fumes are "dangerous". What a "deathtrap". Plus, destruction to roads & buildings. Let's have some "common-sense" & say "NO" to the planning application. I am a regular visitor to Coleshill, born in the town, 1942. "Destruction" of Coleshill & "self-inflicted" "Madness"!! Mike O'Sullivan Shropshire
Water Orton Ladies Night
Quiz Night SATURDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2014 at THE LINK, WATER ORTON
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
yourcomments...
Your views count so usethenews and be heard!!
Comment of the Month..... Dear Sir Leader of NWBC, Councillor Stanley, displays a very selective view of the facts in his article concerning Dan Byles’ decision not to stand again for this constituency. He says that Dan Byles and the Conservatives broke their electoral promises when the Coalition decided not just to continue with HS2, but to extend it to the North of England. He says it was a “great betrayal”, although I somehow doubt he voted for Mr Byles. So why does he fail at the same time to criticise his own party’s betrayal of us here in Coleshill? After all, the Labour Party started it all off and fully supports the extended HS2 project all the way from London up to the North. And without cross-party support, HS2 would be very unlikely to go ahead.
Maybe my memory is longer than his, but I still remember the expectation we had In Coleshill when a New Labour government was first elected in 1997. In the run up to the election our local Labour MP had told us that a Labour government would stop the M6 Toll Road from going ahead – a very big issue for Coleshill at the time. Their Transport spokesman had already stated this to be their policy. Once in power, however, Councillor Stanley’s party gave the new motorway the go-ahead. The Labour MP at that time was Mr Stanley’s ‘mate’, Mike O’Brien. Perhaps Councillor Stanley should contemplate glass houses and the throwing of stones. Yours faithfully, Thomas Jeffreys
Reflexology at Wellbeing Holistic Therapy Centre Benefits of Reflexology Relief from Stress, anxiety tension & depression Feeling of deep relaxation Improved mood / Menopause Improved Sleep A general sense of health and Wellbeing
Understanding Reflexology
The aid of reflexology is the restoration of a state of equilibrium and balance within the body. If a person is to be healthy, all systems of the body must work together in harmony. If any part is out of alignment, other parts suffer as a consequence. The feet have a special relationship with the body: there are 7,200 nerve endings present in the feet that Interconnect with every part of the body. By applying a specific pressure massage it is possible to stimulate or calm underactive/overactive areas respectively, to cleanse and to revitalise. The treatment is for one hour with full medical consultation, for an appointment please call: 01675 466550
Teams of 4 to 6, £5pp to include Homemade cobs of your choice.
Please contact: Sue 0121 747 4366 Ruth 0121 747 4490
The Courtyard, 112 High Street, Coleshill B46 3BL Tel/Fax: 01675 466550
www.wellbeingholistictherapy.co.uk email: enquiry@wellbeingholistictherapy.co.uk
Looking for help on your Family History research? Coleshill Library are now offering FREE help on your Family History research Call in to Coleshill Library for Family History advice and guidance every other Monday between 10.00 – 12.00 or ring the Library on 0300 555 8171 to book your place
COLESHILL UNITED CHURCH FRIDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER 10-12.30PM It’s that time of year when once again The Coleshill United Church, 2 Coventry Road will be supporting this very worthwhile charity and hosting a coffee morning.
Please come along and join us anytime between 10am and 12.30pm. There will be tea, coffee and cakes available, also a raffle and tombola. All proceeds taken during the event will be sent to Macmillan as a donation to help enable nurses to go into patients’ homes, providing support for both patients and their families. If you would like to donate a gift or help please contact Mrs Jean Williams 01675 463625 or Mrs Gill Tyers 01675 462541. Most important of all though, would be seeing you at our coffee morning, so please come along and bring your friends and have a very pleasant morning. Last year we raised £775.15 so let’s do our best and at least equal that if we can.
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THE GATE REAL ALES
AS SEEN IN THE Good Beer Guide 2013/14 RESTAURANT NOW OPEN MONDAYS 12-2.30PM & 6-9PM
Delicious New Menu All meals Homecooked, using local fresh produce from the farm (A.M. Coopers & Sons), handcut chips and meat from the local butcher (JJ Timmins)
Gate Lane, Nether Whitacre, Coleshill, B46 2DS
01675 481292
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost PICTURE BY: ADRIANJONESPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
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Commbus: Making an exhibition of itself Coleshill’s very own Commbus were the subject of a recent interview by industry standard Coach and Bus Week Magazine. Here’s the entire article thanks to www.coachandbusweek.com BY RICHARD CHARNLEY When Mark Clark visits bus and coach shows he’s like most operators, looking at the vehicles he is interested in buying, but for Mark there’s a big difference – he won’t be buying them for another 10 or 20 years.
That’s because his company, Commbus, has carved out a valuable niche operation supplying mobile exhibition vehicles, and some of the most popular are former city double-deckers enjoying a new and exciting lease of life. But this is only part of the picture, because the company is also a bona- ide coach operator with an enviable mix of prestigious corporate work, through local private hire to ferrying school parties. At one time it even ran a small, high quality tours programme. “We like to think we can do anything,” boasts normally modest Mark. He learned his craft as a coach driver with Hallmark, before that company’s original coach operation was acquired by Rotala and merged with Flights. In those days, Hallmark primarily carried airline
crews and professional football teams in top-of-the-range executive coaches. Only in his early 20’s when he joined Hallmark, the operator had to obtain special dispensation from its insurers because of his age. Mark, who also doubled as a DJ, already had other skills, and when he decided to set up his own business it was to provide PA systems for outdoor events. “I started to think, how can the new company transport it’s equipment around and what could it use as a platform from which to rig the sound system? As a PCV driver, my answer was – get a bus!” he explains.
Buses with a difference So it was that 14 years ago he, along with codirector Gordon Hunt, bought an ex-Manchester double-decker and became bus operators – admittedly with amplifiers and speakers instead of passengers. Gordon’s background was as an electrical engineer and he oversees the technical work that has to be done. A former broadcast engineer and editor, he worked on programmes such as the Tellytubbies and Auf Wiedersehen Pet! Other original members of the Com-
mbus team, Steve Teague and Neil Crowe had broadcasting and transport experience and in designing sound and lighting systems for large outdoor events. Having intended to specialise as a soundsystem provider they were surprised when one of their early clients, an American film editing company, asked them if they could kit out the double-decker with computerised editing equipment to tour locations throughout the British Isles. Never one to say no to a business opportunity, and already fully committed with their one and only bus, they had no option but to go out and buy another. As the Americans were to be its first users, Commbus was able to build a conversion to their exact specification. Mark goes on: “A transport consultancy then contacted us. They were looking for a vehicle that a kitchen company could convert into a mobile showroom for a ‘public consultation’ exercise around Cheltenham. That’s when we realised that we were now in the exhibition business.” So delighted was the film-editing company with the British Isles tour that it immediately re-hired, but this
time it wanted to go all over Europe. The original double-decker was too high for use in mainland Europe, so once again Commbus was obliged to buy another bus. This one was harder to source, but eventually a double-deck Setra was tracked down, and in a mutually beneficial arrangement the Americans bought the vehicle and Commbus converted and operated it for them. For the next three years the Setra criss-crossed Europe – and not just the nice, friendly bits that are in the EU. 26 countries were visited, clocking up thousands of miles and furnishing a wealth of stories of their adventures. During 2004, part of the itinerary involved an eventful trip from Finland into Russia. Mark recounts: “Neil was on that trip, and he had to hire local armed escorts for the entire journey to ensure that there were no problems. To guarantee safe passage, the escorts knew when to open wallets to bribe officials or unfastened holsters when threatened by bandits. They also somehow acquired visas for us – we are certain they must have been black market – but they got us across borders.” Mark has a vivid memory also from this time of a night run from Norway to Slovenia. “It was so cold that the sea was freezing and the ferries had stopped running,” he recalls. Throughout all this they never missed reaching an event in time. Indeed, so dedicated is the company to ensuring total reliability that when in the UK one of the double-deckers broke down on its way to a major event, it came up with an original solution. “We contracted a recovery firm to tow it all the way there and place it in position, where it was demonstrated to the client with all the on-board facilities fully functioning,” he says. “After the event, once the client was safely out of the way, the recovery company returned and towed us home.” With Mark away so much, the business at home continued to just tick over, but when the film-editing company’s contract eventually ended and Mark became more home-based Commbus was able to win more work. One job it ran – a roadshow for Asda – brought it into contact with Clare Macleod, a freelance events manager with a background in marketing and PR for the likes of Apple and IATA. Working in the field of exhibition logistics, she started freelancing for Commbus. There must have been more to it than just a job, because as well as now running the administration and marketing for the company she is also Mark’s partner at home.
Wide range of skills With an already well-established fleet of doubledeckers – including an open topper that has been used as a platform for the speakers at Trafalgar Square rallies – it was again a client who took the firm in another direction. “As well as the mobile exhibition vehicle, could you also transport our
staff?” they said. With Mark’s famous habit of saying “Yes” to whatever the client’s question is, the company then had to find a decent coach, and an MAN/Jonckheere was found that Mark knew would be a sound vehicle because it was just like the ones he remembered driving when he first started out at Hallmark. Of course, once you have a ‘proper’ coach, it has to work, and that’s what started Commbus in the private hire business, later leading to the acquisition of a Setra 49-seater to full ‘executive’ specification that had formerly been with the now defunct Prestige Corporate of Glasgow. But there’s a lot more to the company than running old buses and some coaches. The team at Commbus bring a wide range of specialist skills into play in running roadshows, marketing events and educational projects for clients who range from blue-chip corporate businesses to public service organisations. Add to the mix sourcing and converting vehicles for client companies, rigging sound, lighting and audiovisual equipment at events, or hiring out to other organisations from their hire shop, and you get an idea of the range of services on offer. As Clare explains: “We don’t just drive up to the event and park. All the drivers are also technicians who help rig the equipment, set up MCW Metrobus Mark 1, ex West Midlands PTE MCW Metrobus Mark 2, ex West Midlands PTE Leyland Atlantean, ex Greater Manchester PTE Daimler Fleetline open topper, ex Nottingham Transport Dennis Trident, ex Nottingham Transport Dennis Tridents x 2, ex Lothian Buses Setra S315 GT, ex Prestige Corporate EOS230, ex Hallmark Cars AEC-PRV Routemaster, ex London Transport Commbus fleet list INVENTORY displays or open boxes of brochures if that’s what’s needed.” Commbus is based just outside Coleshill, ideally located off the M6 and M42, near to the NEC (National Exhibition Centre), Birmingham Airport and The Belfry Hotel and golf course where the Ryder Cup has been held in the past. When clients visit, the company often uses the upstairs lounge area of one of the doubledeckers – not only can it offer the comfort of leather conference seating and fresh coffee from the on-board galley, but it provides a panoramic view of the company’s facilities. Having outgrown an open yard on an industrial estate, Commbus has recently moved to a new rural location. “On a beautiful summer morning, coming up the third of a mile drive to our yard, driving through open fields while listening to bird song is a fabulous way to start the day!” says Mark, clearly relishing the experience. The secure yard has more than enough room for the ever-expanding fleet and office accommodation, with the bonus of a totally covered area that can accommodate several double-deckers.
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A legislative minefield As the firm discovered in the past, licensing can be a minefield. Is it a bus? Is it a lorry? Is it a mobile home? As there is no existing classification for these vehicles, it’s down to how the company wants to tax them. It now declares them to be LGVs or PCVs as appropriate, and the company holds both PCV and LGV O-licences. Although some of the vehicles are legally classed a ‘heavy motor car’ and can be driven on a car licence, Commbus in-
i
ly licensed Routemaster in traditional London Transport livery, operated by Commbus for its private owner and proving very popular for weddings and school proms. Despite its international operations, Commbus is firmly based in the local community, providing technical support at events for the current ‘Love Coleshill’ campaign which supports high street shops, and also running the sound system for the annual Coleshill and Whitacre show. The firm patronises local businesses whenever possible and has even found a blacksmith in one of the nearby villages that fabricates specialist fittings for it. Never one to rest on its laurels, Commbus is now engaged in talks to acquire another business in a very specialised form of event facility. But not just an ordinary venue – this one incorporates a bus of course! And just to tickle industry insiders, it’s a very rare and classic double-deck bus. Mark’s not giving away any details at the moment, but keep an eye on the Commbus website. As the business grows from strength to strength, the Commbus team have certainly done well out of making an exhibition of themselves!
Commbus , 32 Church Hill, Coleshill, North Warwickshire, B46 3AJ. Phone: 01675 463555. Email: sales@commbus.com Website: www.commbus.com
The Coleshill Post
found that provided an (almost) perfect fit – with the assistance of some significant fabrication work – under the stairs. As these vehicles don’t carry passengers, there is some flexibility within the Construction and Use regulations.
parking in their car park if necessary.” Unlike some competitors who start with just the vehicle shell, Commbus has some preconverted vehicles. “If the client has a limited budget, and can’t afford a bespoke conversion from scratch, we can provide a vehicle already equipped with the basics – display equipment, power supplies, light and heat,” she said. “They can then customise it to their requirements and have it signed up in their image.” This is where Commbus has developed good relationships with Mike Bolton of SGS Graphic Design. It can do a complete all-over wrap of a double-decker or just a back and front, depending on the brief. There are a couple of amazing short films done by time-lapse photography showing one of the doubledeckers being completely wrapped for Anglia Ruskin University, and another of the EOS being transformed for Altro. These are featured on the Commbus100 Google TV channel, and can also be easily found on YouTube. There is always something unusual to see in the Commbus yard. Currently parked in a corner is an American yellow school bus being converted from a camper van to a showroom for a trade association. A regular visitor is a ful-
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Although the firm carries out all the interior conversion work itself, servicing and major maintenance is contracted out. A visiting mechanic is employed who undertakes more specialist tasks and running repairs. Mark is proud that despite the venerable age of some of his vehicles, one that passed its recent MOT with a completely clear score received the compliment from the test centre that it was “an extremely well presented vehicle.” A recent project was to convert yet another double-decker and this presented a challenge in re-locating the vehicle’s fuel tank. Its original location was under one of the lower saloon seats, which prevented it having the open flat floor required for exhibition work, but after much searching a suitable tank was
sists that all those who drive them have the relevant PCV or LGV licences. They acquired their Driver CPC Qualification Cards in good time, having completed the 35 hours training three years ago with a local training company. Many of those who were at the NEC in 2012 for Euro Bus Expo would actually have been on one of Commbus’ vehicles without realising it. It wasn’t one of the manufacturers’ shiny new models, but a rare 1990’s EOS230 that was being used by Altro to demonstrate its range of transport floorings as actually fitted in a vehicle. At the same time it providing Altro with a hospitality unit, reception and office space. Before and after the show it was on the road touring the country. Mark knew the vehicle because it was a former Hallmark team coach for one of the Premier League football clubs, rumoured to have been Arsenal. “That wasn’t the attraction, though,” claims Mark. “I knew that it had been looked after, and had extra features that we could use, like an auxiliary generator and a rear servery.” Clare explains why companies like the idea of a bus or coach for promoting their products. “Normally with a roadshow they would have to hire venues all over the country, set up and dismantle their displays every time, and then publicise it and hope that people would come. With the bus, they just install everything once, there’s no venue to hire, and the vehicle can go direct to the potential customers – even
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RGN CASE STUDY:
The Coleshill Post
What is RGN?
THE Warwickshire Rural Growth Network provides free business support to businesses and individuals looking to start their own business, in rural Warwickshire.
Warwickshire County Council has been selected by DEFRA, as one of five counties in England to run this new pilot business support programme focusing on rural areas. You will be given a dedicated business coach, who will work with you to develop a bespoke action plan, to launch a new business or kick start business growth. You and your business coach will work through your journey, to achieve your goals. To discuss this opportunity further, please do contact us on either 07768 390148 or 07920 563781.
Local company BPI Coleshill expands
With help from Regional Growth Network Bpi coleshill a local cleaning and janitorial supplier based in Whitacre Heath is expanding its range of products to provide a 1 stop service to local pubs, restaurants, bars, hotels, offices and factories. BPI's range includes cleaning supplies, paper products such as towels, napkins etc and hardware and stationary lines. All of the items are kept in stock and can be delivered locally. Ian Rix who has just taken over BPI
said 'I have had a new web site designed (www.bpicoleshill.co.uk) and I am re-launching the business with new products, special offers and I am planning to expand to enable me to employ at least one other member of staff by next spring.' Ian is already establishing a local presence and is supplying pubs, golf clubs and factories with the products. Under the Regional Growth Network Coaching Programme Ian has worked with his business Coach Marie Stephenson to prepare a marketing plan in line with his objectives
to expand the business. He has received 12 hours of free 1:1 coaching and he said 'Marie has helped me to define a clear marketing strategy for growth and my plans for the future include internet ordering and taking on more staff. Ian’s approach to business is simple – he offers a high level of service to ensure his customers are happy and there are regular offers and trials samples of new products. The cleaning products are heavy duty and highly concentrated and Ian can advise on ratios so that clients get the best val-
ue for money whilst maintaining the all important levels of hygiene. With depots in Coleshill and Bayton Road, Coventry, he also offers free delivery to local businesses. If you are looking for cleaning and janitorial supplies and you want a competitive price, high level of service and someone you can rely on to provide clear advice and recommend the right product for your needs please contact BPI on 01675 462 791 or visit www.bpicoleshill.co.uk
Free 1:1 Coaching Support for Businesses in North Warwickshire
LOCAL Business Coach and Marketing Consultant Marie Stephenson is offering free 1:1 coaching to businesses in the North Warwickshire area, funded by the Rural Growth Network.
Marie said: “My background in Business Management and Marketing are the perfect combination to help businesses to grow and prosper. A Coach challenges, encourages and guides you. With 1:1 coaching,
a business can receive support in areas that they need to help them to make them successful including management skills, planning and strategy, recruitment and selection skills and communication skills to name a few. Each business has different aims and the coaching is carried out in line with their aims” Many of her clients have already benefitted from working with her to improve their skills and knowledge which in turn has helped them to achieve
their goals for their business. They are now in control of their strategy and have a plan to work to that will meet their business goals. There is no cost involved in the coaching and if you are interested you must be prepared to commit to spending up to 12 hours with Marie, who is a member of the Institute of Consulting. A new range of workshops to accompany the coaching will be announced shortly and these are also free. Thanks to her experience in industry, and having taught business and management for many years she is confident that she can offer the help needed. She is particularly interested in helping new start ups who can benefit greatly from her contacts and knowledge to help them on their journey. As a Marketing Consultant she also designs web sites and prices start at £200 including a free blog, 3 email addresses and a free domain name* (*subject to availability). For more information visit Marie’s web site www.the-marketeer.co.uk or call Marie on 07985 724842
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BUSINESS46
Bowled over by business and cricket success
The evening event was a fantastic mix of business and entertaining cricket. Coleshill CC organised and hosted the special Junior’s vs Senior’s match. There was a BBQ, drinks and a raffle in aid of Woodlands School. Both teams played with passion and pride in the highly competitive match. The Junior’s won the toss and fielded first. The Senior’s were keen to show off their experience and got off to a great start with solid batting from Adam Zafar, Jason Prince and Toby Swift, posting an impressive 140-5 from their 20 overs. In reply to this total, the Junior’s displayed some excellent batting from Joel Seickell and Josh Siddall Poyner. However, the Senior’s, were keen to avoid embarrassment and took regular wickets; including Daniel Walker dismissing his younger brother Michael. The Junior’s fought back and Zac Prince took his father for four runs. Unfortunately, the Junior side fall short of the Senior target by a mere three runs, finishing on 137-6 from 20 overs. Adam Harrison from Coleshill CC said “Both players and spectators really enjoyed the evening. It’s great to see businesses supporting local clubs. Due to demand the Club has organised a re-match on Friday 12th September at Memorial Park.” The raffle raised over £120 on the evening for Woodlands School, Head teacher Iain Paterson stated “I am touched by the generosity of local businesses such as Sertec, Coleshill Hotel, The Norton and others for donating raffle prizes and showing they really do care about their community.” Martin Clifford of Arthur Marsh Insurance said “The Business46 team have done a fantastic job in bringing not only local businesses together but also introducing them to charities and sports clubs in the community so that everyone benefits.”
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On Wednesday 13th August the Business46 team joined forces with Coleshill Cricket Club to combine networking with a Twenty20 match at Memorial Park.
Martin Clifford and Adam Harrison man the barbecue at CCC
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BUSINESS46
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New photo competition will focus on North Warwickshire at work NORTH Warwickshire at work is the subject of a new photo-competition being launched by the Borough Council, supported by BMW Plant Hams Hall.
Happy snappers are invited to send in their photos – taken on a camera or phone – depicting the wide range of businesses and industry in the Borough. Photos can depict a building such as a factory, shop, leisure centre, hotel, pub, farm or school or the people working there. North Warwickshire at work can also be interpreted in its widest sense to include, for example, people working on their allotments or as volunteers. Leader of the Council, Councillor Mick Stanley said: “We all know that North Warwickshire has a fascinating history and heritage and beautiful countryside. But we wanted to emphasise what a thriving Borough we are, with big businesses such as Aldi, BMW, Ocado and TNT based here and excellent transport links. We are hoping for a great response so that we can use the photographs in publications, exhibitions and on our website and possibly create a North Warwickshire calendar for 2015.” The competition is open to anyone who works, studies or lives in or visits North Warwickshire –
the only proviso is that the photo must be taken in the Borough. There are two age groups – 17 and over and 16 and under and the best entry in each will win £150. Nick Spencer, plant director at BMW Plant Hams Hall said: “For over thirteen years BMW has been manufacturing engines in North Warwickshire, employing over 800 people from the Borough and the wider region in a variety of different roles. North Warwickshire is however not just about larger businesses and well known brand names. It has a diverse economy and I’m looking forward to seeing that captured in people’s photos.” Email the photos, which must be no larger than 5Mb, to photocomp@northwarks.gov.uk by Sunday 30th November. Include your name, contact details, age group and a description of the photo. Further details are at www.northwarks.gov.uk/ photocomp and winners will be announced in early December.
A worker carries out her duties at the BMW Engine Plant, Hams Hall, Coleshill.
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BUSINESS46
Costa Coffee has been working with Coleshill firm Incorporatewear, the UK’s leading supplier of corporate clothing, to introduce more individuality into its uniform ranges.
One of the founders of Britain’s leading company clothing supplier, Coleshill based Incorporatewear, is retiring. BRIAN Lamb has seen the world of corporate clothing change dramatically in his 47 years in the industry.
His career started at the age of 17 in 1967, when he worked on the lowest rung of the ladder at Dewhirst, supplying uniforms to Marks & Spencer. In those days, the Britain’s clothing manufacturers were booming with little overseas competition. From his first job as a trainee, Brian worked his way through various roles to director level before helping to found Incorporatewear, which supplies corporate clothing to some of the biggest brands in the world, including the famous red uniform of Virgin Atlantic. He is retiring as Operations Director at Incorporatewear. “When I founded Incorporatewear in 1996 with two associates, it was a tough time for industry,” explains Brian, who is originally from Durham. “There were so many obstacles, with the clothing market completely collapsing in the UK. We saw factories close across the country, and customers were turning to cheaper supply chains abroad.” Nevertheless, Incorporatewear, which is based in Coleshill, West Midlands, grew from a three-man team to a workforce that today is
over 80 strong, with a turnover in 2014 expected to exceed £23 million. In the autumn of 2013, the firm was acquired by Australian multinational Pacific Brands. Brian has been a leading figure in establishing Incorporatewear’s reputation as the biggest and best corporate clothing player in Europe. He has been responsible for everything about the product, including design, technology and procurement. The company is closing in on its 20th anniversary, but the ethos behind the business remains the same, as Brian explains: “We have always strived to improve. You can’t stand still in this industry.” He is saying goodbye to the company he founded with mixed feelings: “I am looking forward to retirement and having the time to watch the cricket, but I will miss Incorporatewear of course. It’s a special company that has survived by making the best possible product for the best price. We’re head and shoulders above our competitors in that respect, and I’m really proud of that.” Brian’s commitment to the business is matched by many of the staff. “Some people in the team started here years ago as young graduates, and are now in their for-
ties – people stick around.” Few business owners would admit to having a favourite client, but Brian acknowledges how strong relationships with long-term clients such as Nationwide Building Society and Beaverbrooks the Jewellers are great for business. Brian has been at the helm of the firm through advances in technology, with both systems and materials. Ordering systems have evolved to encompass web and mobile solutions – now a key part of Incorporatewear’s marketing strategy. “I’ve seen the process behind the manufacturing improve,” he says. “With a uniform, there’s a need to be as strong and durable, yet as comfortable, as possible. Using technology to design new fibres has been crucial. Manmade materials are more popular, perform better and last longer.” Even with exemplary customer service and a desire to constantly improve, Brian believes the biggest obstacles for the corporate clothing industry might be yet to come. “There may be increased competition from foreign firms coming into the UK market to sell directly to the end user. I don’t think this will happen in the near future, but if I’ve learned anything in this business, it’s to be prepared for any eventuality.”
Instead of a unisex one-size-fits-all solution, Costa has rolled out a collection that includes men’s and women’s fits for all of its 16,000 members of staff, working across 2,000 stores across UK and Europe. The new collection includes aprons and shirts for front-of-house staff, with a colour palette of dark coffee for Baristas and café-crème for the more experienced Maestros. “A coffee shop should be a relaxed, enjoyable place,” explains Karen Harper, Incorporatewear’s account man-
ager. “Costa Coffee appreciates how uniforms impact on the customer experience. They need to convey the right message and we worked with Costa Coffee for many months to develop the new style, which reflects their desire to be seen to be more approachable and individual.” Incorporatewear has worked with Costa for over a year now and was successfully appointed following many years of supplying Premier Inn, sister-organisation within the Whitbread Group. “Naturally the specific requirements of Costs Coffee are very different from those of Premier Inn”, says Chris Wood, Incorporatewear’s general manager, “But ultimately both businesses value our ethos of design and attention to detail.“
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Brian hangs up his uniform after almost half a century in the industry
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Tuesday 16th September
The Coleshill Post
Morning: Student led tours at 9:15 am and 10:15 am Evening: 6:00 pm—8:00 pm
The COLESHILL School
For further information, to arrange an individual tour at any time or to receive our prospectus please contact:
Mrs Vanessa Barnes, Transition Manager
barnes.v@thecoleshillschool.com
We are proud of the many improvements and successes the school has achieved and look forward to sharing these with you and your children during our Open Day where you can see the school in operation with student led tours at 9:15 am and 10:15 am and visit in the evening and have the opportunity to talk with subject teachers and receive a tour of the school with a student guide. Mr Smith-Childs, Head of School will give his address at 6:15pm and again at 7:15pm. We look forward to meeting you!
Coventry Road, Coleshill, Birmingham B46 3EX  01675 462435
Email: enquiries@thecoleshillschool.org.uk
Website: www.thecoleshlllschool.org.uk
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The Coleshill School
News and events All staff and students at The Coleshill School are looking forward to starting the new school year.
For the first time in the school’s history our students have achieved a 100% pass rate, allowing the vast majority of students successful entry to a university of their choice. We are also very pleased that the average point score per student has continued to rise this year with close to 40% achieving at least 1 A*-B grade. These results are a testament to the hard
work and dedication of our students and staff, and demonstrate the strength of provision across a range of 24 subject areas. There were many success stories, which include: Harry Hewer who achieved 2 A*s and a B and will be going onto study history at The University of Sheffield. Ryan Capewell who achieved an A* and 2 Bs and will be going onto study law at The University of Bristol. Daniel Cornock who joined us at the start of Year 12 and achieved three outstanding grades
including an A in economics, and will be going on to study computer systems engineering at The University of Cardiff. There was also much to celebrate in Year 12 with some outstanding achievement from many students. A special mention to Matthew Allen who achieved four A grades and William Moore who achieved two As and 2 Bs. We wish all of our departing students the very best of luck with their onward studies or destinations, and eagerly anticipate news of their future successes.
Significant Improvement in GCSE Results!
Pictured from left to right: Emily Hines-Randle, Craig Turner, Olivia Woodward, Mr Ian Smith-Childs, Head of School, Daniel McCann and Matthew Arnold
The Coleshill School is pleased to announce a very pleasing set of GCSE results, reflecting the significant improvements in the school over the last year! The number of students who have achieved the gold standard of 5A*-C including English and Mathematics will have increased by at least 10% from last year’s results and the number of
students achieving a C or above in both English and Mathematics has dramatically increased to 57%. In English we have achieved our best ever GCSE results and are pleased to see an increase in the number of students achieving the higher grades. In Mathematics the number of students achieving a C or above has increased by 10% and we are looking forward to welcoming a group of new outstanding leaders and teachers
of Mathematics in September. The improvements in results, which can be seen across a range of subjects, are testament to the hard work of the students, their teachers and the families who support them. Newly appointed Head of School, Ian SmithChilds said ‘We are delighted that the results which have come through reflect the improvements we see on a day to day basis in the school. We look forward to now increasing the level of improvement in the school as we aim to be well above national averages in Summer 2015.’ There were some incredible individual performances which capture the determination and outstanding work ethic of our students. Of particular note were: Craig Turner 8A*, 1A, 2B Daniel McCann 9A*, 2A, 1B Olivia Woodward 6A*, 6A Steffi Pedwell 5A*, 7A Matthew Arnold 5A*, 6A, 1B Paige Briscoe 5A*, 1A, 5B Emily Hines-Randle 2A*, 5A, 5B We congratulate all of our students on their achievements and wish them good luck and every success in the next stages of their education or careers.
With huge improvements in both GCSE and A Level results the future is bright and we look forward to sharing our successes with all in the local community. Head of School, Ian SmithChilds has impressed upon staff the importance of every member of the team playing their part in building a culture of success, quoting the effectiveness of the ‘marginal gains’ approach used by the British Cycling team, where small improvements can make a big difference. Mr Smith-Childs commented ‘The students at The Coleshill School are talented and able and deserve to be re c o g n i s e d for their successes. We are proud of each and every one of our students,
now we need them to be proud of themselves and believe in what they can achieve. We have introduced a range of new rewards to celebrate success and look forward to our Celebration Evening on 11th September for students from Year 11 for their success during Year 10. Over the coming year we aim to smash all previous records for student achievement and celebrate success in all its forms. We have more students than ever wanting to join the school and we know that we have what it takes to be an excellent school for the young people in our community. I encourage families who are making decisions about secondary schools to come to our Open Evening on 16th September, but also to come and visit the school and see us in action during the day; this really is the best way to get a feel for the school and decide if it is the right place for you.” Celebrating Success!
The Coleshill Post
A-Level success at The Coleshill School! Celebrating Success
We are happy to announce our best ever set of provisional A-level results for our Year 13 students.
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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BUS & COACH HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS Day Trip: Chatsworth Christmas Market Friday 21st November 2014 - £26.00 per person
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Chatsworth will be magically transformed for the Christmas season. The lower ßoors of the house will be decorated and this year’s theme is 'Alice in WonderlandÕ. The day includes executive travel to Chatsworth; entry to the house, garden and the fabulous Christmas Market. Before returning home we will visit the Estate Farm Shop - perfect for stocking up on even more festive treats. To book your places please contact our ofÞce via the details below. Coleshill, 01675 463555
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
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BUSINESS LISTING
The Coleshill Post
Alan Forman Piano tuning and repairs. Hoggrills Cottages, Barnswood Lane, Whitacre Heath, B46 2EF, 01675464335, 07712630438 AJN Accountancy Ltd 29 Penns Lane, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1BA, 07702815142
Ann McBride Chiropractic The
Health Centre, 58-60 Coventry Road, Coleshill, B46 3EE, 08432899136 Balti Cottage 107 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BP, 01675464122
Barry John Marcus - House Clearances Coleshill, 07813 013111 or 01675 466026
Birmingham Scaffolding LTD 24 Springfields, Coleshill, B46 3EG, 01675464228
Blythe Electrical Tel: 01675 464009 www.blytheelectrical.co.uk
Books Revisited 110 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675464853
BPI Coleshill Delivering,
cleaning and janitorial supplies. 01675462791, 07726700902. ian@ bpicoleshill.co.uk
Broadlee Printers Unit 1A Trinity
Road, Kingsbury Link, Tamworth, B78 2EX, 01827872200
Camlec 103 Park Hall Crescent, Castle Bromwich, Birmingham B36 9SU Tel: 0121 749 4546 Mobile: 07929 246 802 Carter's Electrical 128 High
Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BJ, 01675462277
Chestnut Tree Nursery Memorial Park Centre, Park Road, Coleshill, B46 3LA, 01675462120
CafĂŠ au Lait 112 b High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675467739
If you are interested in showing your support for The Coleshill Post please call our community team on 01675 467189 or email community@thecoleshillpost.co.uk
Church End Brewery Ltd
Ridge Lane, Atherstone, CV10 0RD, 01827713080
Coleshill Churches Together 67 Temple Way, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1UE, 01675463274 Coleshill Community Hub Town Hall, High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BG, 01675238309 Coleshill Cleaning Centre 10 Coventry Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BE, 01675464058 Coleshill Cricket Club
c/oWall House, 112 High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BL, 01675430162 Coleshill Roofing 17 Digby Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3NL, 01675462344
Coleshill & District Civic Society 1 Church Hill, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3AD, 01675462727 Commbus.com 32 Church Hill, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3AJ, 01675463555 Crimson Ltd Queen Anne House, 131 High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BP, 01675466477
Dave Electrics 61 Common
Lane, Washwood Heath, Birmingham, B8 2US, 07814878013
Dreamers Indian Cuisine 146 High
Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BG, 01675467789 Dreamers Of Coleshill Sunnyside, Blackfirs Lane, Bickenhill, B37 7JE, 01675462323
Dennis Walker Insurances
Lake House, 7 Parkfield Road Coleshill, B46 3LD, 01675462682
Drinks4U 1-3 Bridge View, Lower High
Street, Coleshill, B46 1BE, 01675620581 DRP Logistics Ltd The Annexe, Chantry House, High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BP, 01675462230 Duncan McNutt Dentistry 58-60 Coventry Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3EE, 01675464231 Evans Derry Solicitors 5 Church Hill, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3AD, 01675464400
Gascoignes of Coleshill 100 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675462294 Glitzy Bits 109 High Street Coleshill B46 3BP
Minworth Club & Lodge Robinson Way, Minworth B76 9BB Tel: 0121 351 3531 Tel: 07539 086721
Natural World Experience Ltd 24
Harben Barker The Courtyard,
Forge Road, Shustoke, Coleshill, B46 2AU,
112 High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BL, 01675466344
07811403713
Hatton Ceramics 42 Highbrink
Walk, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BZ,
Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1BH, 01675464907
Heads of Coleshill 75 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, 01675466040
Chiropodist @ Heads of Coleshill 75 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, 01675466040
Nails4Fingers at Heads of Coleshill 75 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, 01675466040 Atherstone Road, Furnace End, Coleshill,
H G Jerromes & Son 27 Bateman Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B461EU, 01675464992
Indian Lounge 123 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BT, 01675466966
Jem Lines 124 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BJ,
Jenny Wren 88 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675462444
Mary Anne Evans Hospice 59 High Brink Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1BH, 01675463305
Mary Anne Evans Hospice Charity Shop 5/6 Chamberlin Walk, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 6UT, 01675465767
Moo Fresh Ltd Unit L26. Hastingwood Park, Wood Lane B24 9QR 0121 647 3537
MP Computer Services
9 Vesey Close, Water Orton, Birmingham, B46 1RB, 01217474537
Coleshill House, 1 Station Road, Coleshill, B46 1HT, 01675461600
Coleshill, B463EG, 01675464145, 079561484418
Soul2Soul Yoga Blackbird Cottage,
Bakehouse Lane, Nether Whitacre, B46 2EB
Nice Thoughts 3-4 Chamberlain 01675462718
OJ's Beads & handmade Gifts 92 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL.
One-Off Interiors Wall House, 112 High Street, Coleshill, B46 3BL, 01675430162
PBS Embroidery The One Stop Personalisation Shop Tel: 0121 770 8000 Email: info@pbsports.co.uk Unit 8 Waterloo Avenue Chelmsley Wood Industrial Estate, B37 6QQ
Penny Johnson Flowers 106 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675463167
Perfect Harmony
Holistic Therapies & Gifts NVQ.IIHHT.VTCT Reiki Master/Teacher Mandy Beal MCThA Town Hall Sumner Road Entrance, Coleshill B46 3BH Sally Crystal Therapy Alan Iridology/Herbs Amanda Chiropody Kinesiology 01675 238217 - 07904 089904 info@perfectharmonytherapy.co.uk www.perfectharmonytherapy.co.uk
Peter King DJ/Presenter Hilltop View, Grimstock Hill, Coleshill, B46 1LE, 01675463554
Meridian Travel Angel Mews, PWO & Sons 43 Parkfield Road, 74 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3LD, 3AH, 01675463784 01675464878
MPM Insurance Services Ltd
SM Roofing & Maintenance 61 Springfields,
Ramadan Kingsbury Road,
Curdworth, Birmingham, B76 9EE, 01675475573
Rajrani Bengal & Indian Cuisine 102 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675463777
Redcoffeeco The Firs, Coleshill Road, Shustoke, B46 2BD, Red Lion 11 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BB, 01675467470
Remember When 80 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3AH,
Spanners Autocentres Unit 5, Station Road, Coleshill, B46 1HT, 01675467146.
Sringfield Guesthouse 69 Coventry Rd, Coleshill B46 3EA 01675 465695
SPB Group/Coleshill Self Storage Jubilee Estate, Gorsey Lane, Coleshill, B461JU, 01675464446
Spice Lounge 10 Birmingham
Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1AA, 01675467388 ST-IT Limited 37 Old Mill Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1BG, Swan Hotel High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675462212 Sweet Things 2 Chamberlain Walk, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 8UT, 01675467737 Tao Tao 83 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3AG, 01675462463
T E W Hickton LTD
Whitmore House, Lower High Street, Cradley Heath, B64 5AB
The Coleshill Academy Coventry
Road, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3EX, 01675462435 The Groom Room Croft Farmhouse, Coleshill Road, Shustoke B46 2BF Tel: 01675 481958 Tel: 07971 216522
The Sweep
07972 323134 or 0800 977 5188 thesweep.org.uk
The Marketeer 37 Chestnut Grove, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1AD, 01675 463400
The Swan Inn Station Road,
Whitacre Heath, B46 2JA 01675 462181
The Upper Crust 01675467126 Tudor House Financial Planning 106 High Street, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3BL, 01675462882
Utility Warehouse Authorised Distributor, 16 Southfields Close, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3EQ
Welcome 2 This World, 5 Lyon
Court, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3NU,
Wellbeing Holistic Therapy Centre, The Courtyard, 112 high Street, Coleshill, B46 3BL, 01675466550
Wild Cherry Events
01675466418
Roofwise 5 Kingsbury Road, Curdworth B76 9EP, 01675 470635, 07803 382166 Rooney Tax Services 4 Howarth Court, Water Orton, Birmingham, B46 1RF, 01217493126
www.wildcherryevents.com Woodlands School, Packington Lane, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3JE, 01675463590 Yin Yang Centre 34 Penns Lane, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 1BA, 01675464369
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Kickboxing
ITS been a busy year for tka so and there looks like being no let up as the kickboxing students have got grading’s and tournaments coming up & also tka’s own interclub competition to help the new ones get started. Tka’s recent grading was of a very high standard as usual, and everybody put in an amazing amount of work in the weeks leading up to it. Right from the start tka have placed a high priority on good strong techniques and we insist on everybody doing good basics and have a good understanding of how the techniques should be delivered. The building blocks and foundation of a good martial artist/kickboxer/ fighter start from the ground up and even the ‘lil ninjas know they have to reach the required standard, this grading was excellent and everybody passed so that was good news. At tka we try and grade or students as independently as possible, that means an instructor with grade students they don’t usually teach, this keeps the students focused and motivates them to do their best. Although tka has got a reputation as being a competitive club this is not the first thing that students are exposed to, we start off with learning good basics on the focus pads and punch bags and kick shields, we also work on fitness and conditioning as this is very important not just for martial arts but for life in general. It has also been a very busy year on the tournament front and tka has had
some awesone results, we came 5th overall in the medal table at the irish open which is the biggest competition in the world, we can great results at the british wako’s , the kwon grand slam and the watford open to name just a few. This year has been a record year for siblings competing and they have had some fantastic results, with recent wins at kwon kids open, kwon grand slam & gforce open. All the kids have been working hard in the gym and its paying off both with gradings and the completion fighting, emily shotton won her first tournament after getting 2nds and 3rds she has really stuck to the task and really deserved the win, her brother jacob has doing really well since he started fighting, its been a hard year for him as he stepped up league and left the novice categories but he has also stuck to it and got 2nd & 3rd at the kwon kids open. First place also for jack ‘bruiser’ dilloway at the gforce open, his brother sam ‘maddog’ dilloway also won at the gforce open and 5 year old sister lexi has also started competing. Nathaniel rabbette also picked first place at kwon kids open and 6 year old brother oisin rabbette got bronze… twins sky & spencer williams have been putting together a good string of results lately and and both picked up first place’s at the kwon kids open. And last but not least lilli mae marson 7 yrs and molli ‘mayhem’ marson
Pictured: - TKA Siblings with some of their recent hard earned ‘silverware’
5yrs, have been doing a great job with lili taking first place and molli get 3rd. All in all its been a great start to the year and we’ve just had an great middle to the year, long may it continue. Also doing extremely well is izzy ‘machine gun’ westwood, the 8yr old atherstone school girl has had some
great results including 2 x 1st place trophies at the kwon uk kids open and 2nd place at the prestigious irish open, izzy trains 3/4 per week at tamworth kickboxing academy her mother bindy also trains at tka and will be taking her black belt at christmas. Tamworth kickboxing academy is
only 10 minutes from atherstone and 20 minutes from coleshill Anybody who would like to get into kickboxing should phone lance 07790 745 750 Or visit www.Tamworthkickboxing. Com
The Coleshill Post
Hard work pays off at tamworth kicboxing academy
@ColeshillPost
Lance Manyer
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Jason Lowe
@ColeshillPost
Boxing
Picture courtesy KO Magazine
The Coleshill Post
Thomas ‘Hit Man’ Hearns
Premier Suit Brings Premier Boxing ROBERTO Duran, the former World boxing champion at 4 different weights will be in The Midlands this month to talk to fans about his life in the fight game and what he been up too since retiring. The absolute hard man of rock and who is classed as one of the best boxers ever and more so as the best Lightweight Champion ever to grace the canvass will be visiting The Premier Suit in the heart of Cannock’s Town Centre. Scott Murray the owner of The Premier suite, said having Duran here will be an epic episode to reliving one of the greats and my idols. To achieve the job of getting him into Cannock is a blessing. The area holds a great Boxing history. I cannot wait to meat Duran and for fight fans, he is a marvel. Over the years Scott has had some super fab names from all walks of celebrity status. From film stars such as Henry Hill, (Goodfellas) to sports starts from Rugby, Football, Golf, to boxing names such as Sir Henry Cooper (RIP) was a frequent visitor to The Premier suit when he was in town and on other occasions former Boxing champions like Evander Holyfield, Brian London, Larry Holmes, Tim Witherspoon, Alan Minter, Tony Tucker, Frank Bruno, Tommy Morrision (RIP), and Sugar Ray have loved this place. Duran is one of the 4 Kings from the 70s and 80s era alongside, Sugar
Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler and also Thomas Hit man Hearns. Over here we had Eubanks, Collins, Benn and Watson, but the 4 Kings was something special to watch. Every fight they had was a class above everything. Known as Manos De Piedra (Hands of Stone) The Panama fighter had 103 professional fights with 70 wins by KO. With only 16 losses on his card, He first started boxing pro in 1968. In 1972 he won his first World title when he beat Scotland fighter Ken Buchannan. From then he entered the ring against fighters some wouldn’t even dare look at. Estebain De Jesus, Lou Bizzarro, Carlos Polomino, Sugar Ray Leonard, Wilfred Benitez, GBs Kirkland Laing and Jimmy Batton, along with Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hitman Hearns, Iran Barkley and Hector Camancho. This rare occasion will also host the former WBC World Super Middleweight Champion from Telford Richie Woodall. Tickets for this event start at £45.00 for Bronze, £65.00 FOR Silver and Gold tickets are £125.00. 5 course meal, after dinner speech, Comedian and also a chance to grab photos with the night’s starts and also boxing memorabilia to purchase. Ticket hotline is at 01543 572092 or at info@premier-suite.co.uk The Premier Suite, 1st Floor, The Danilo, (Above Bar Sports), 85-87 High Green, Cannock Town Centre.
If there were ever three rounds of untainted, hard pounding, none stop action packed into 15 minutes of just pure boxing at its best this was it. The 2 men in the ring were Marvellous Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hit man Hearn’s
"The War" was the nickname given to this bout by its promoter Bob Arum. In 1985, "Marvelous" Marvin Hagler had been the undisputed champion of the middleweight division since September 27, 1980, After having been widely regarded as the No. 1 challenger for much of the late 1970s, his first two shots at the world middleweight title resulted in controversy: The first was an unpopular draw against then-champion Vito Antuofermo in 1979 (allowing Antuofermo to retain the title), and the second was a threeround technical knockout (TKO) of Alan Minter, in London, which led to a riot by Minter's fans. The hard road to the middleweight championship however, may have helped motivate Hagler to remain dominant during his reign. Hagler was renowned for his conditioning and durability, suffering only one official knockdown in his career, against Juan Domingo Roldan, an incident Hagler always insisted should have been ruled a slip. By the time he fought Thomas Hearns, he had defended the title ten times, winning all but one by knockout; the sole Hagler defense that went the distance was a 15-round decision victory over Roberto Durán. Hagler was then approaching the middleweight record of 14 title defenses, held by Carlos Monzón. When Hagler vs. Hearns took place, Hearns had recently moved
up from the welterweight to the junior middleweight to the middleweight division. Hearns was regarded as one of the hardest punchers of all time, winning 30 of his first 32 bouts by knockout. In Hearns's first title shot in 1980, he scored a spectacular second-round knockout over WBA champion Pipino Cuevas. Hearns defended that title three times before meeting Sugar Ray Leonard in a thrilling fight dubbed "The Showdown." Hearns lost by technical knockout in the 14th round despite leading on all three scorecards. He then successfully campaigned at junior middleweight, winning the WBC title from Wilfred Benítez, and defeating Roberto Durán by a dramatic second-round knockout, the first knockout loss of Durán's career. Hearns defeated several middleweights during this period, including Marcos Geraldo by first-round knockout. Geraldo had gone the distance against both Leonard and Hagler. Given the way both men had won their respective fights coming into this bout, the fight garnered significant media attention and fan interest around the world. It was held at the Caesars Palace hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada on April 15, 1985. Do you remember this fight? For me it’s one of my most favorite pieces of boxing history. Only second to the Mickey Ward and Gatti trilogy. You as Boxing fans will know after watching such fantastic boxing fight like that, the next best thing would be to sit and chat to both fighters and get their personal insight. Well half the chance has come forward for boxing fans as it will see Thomas Hearn’s visiting The Premier Suit in Cannock. All ready hosting an evening with
Roberto Duran this month, Scott Murray has just confirmed he has signed a deal to now have Thomas HITMAN Hearns at the venue on Wednesday November 19th. Hearns who had a fight carrier of 61 pro fights 48 by KO 5 losses and 1 draw. Hearns was born on October 18th 1958 and from the first fight he has as a pro, he was destined to be World Champion. In his first 32 fights, he had all wins. His first loss was against Sugar Ray Leonard. He had another 8 fight win streak before he meet up with the one and only Marvin Haglar, Oh dear. He also boxed Irian Barkley, Roberto Duran, Wilfred Benitez, and GBs Dennis Andries, He also won titles with the WSBA, WBA, WBC, IBF, NABF and the WBO. He boxed in 6 weight divisions that included Welter, Light Middle, Middle, Super Middle, Light Heavy and Cruiserweight. I have already had the privilege of meeting this super star of the ring and interviewed him for my other pages in The Harp newspaper. A few years ago I was lucky to attend a show with not only Hearns but also Duran was attending too. Listening to these GODS of boxing was indeed a must on my most need to do list. I am definitely not missing the chance to see either ones of these again and without a blink of an eye wouldn’t miss a second chance. These guys do not visit the country often and it would be a sin to miss. For more information on this event and details please contact the following details Ticket hotline 01543 572092 info@premier-suite.co.uk
www.thecoleshillpost.co.uk
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
Boxing
PICTURE: Frankie Gavin at Wayne Elcocks Box Clever Gym
BY JAMES HARTE Redditch's Andy Robinson and Trowbridge's Dan Blackwell served up a cracking super-middleweight six-rounder with Robinson getting a deserved 59-56 decision. It was a brutal encounter with Robinson's left ear grotesquely swollen from the second round onwards, and Blackwell's face sweating blood through the latter rounds. Both didn't know how to take a backward step and were relentless in trying to punch the other man onto the retreat. Despite walking into right hand after right
hand, Robinson was more economical with his work, and would string together a sequence of hooks and uppercuts whereas Blackwell was always looking for that one shot. It looked on many occasions as though he might find it - but despite been steadied once or twice, Robinson was never in any serious danger. The main concern for the unbeaten man was his deformed ear which was practically hanging down the side of his face at times and began leaking blood in the last. It was a punishing encounter in an increasingly hot and cauldron-like venue, as Robinson stretches his unbeaten run to 12(3)-0 while Blackwell is a very deceptive 6(1)-36. On the 1st August, Italy’s Leonard
Bundu came to town to successfully defend his welterweight European belt and solidify his strong position with the WBO in a blistering cauldron at the Wolverhampton Civic with a tenacious split decision over the previously undefeated Frankie Gavin. Gavin, a world champion in the amateur ranks struggled to settle early on, and couldn't quite time the two fisted buzzing onslaughts that Bundu was enjoying mounting. Bundu does not box at all like the 39 year old that he is, full of energy and zest and was fully confident in every move he made, whether it be switching stances or firing away in aggressive bursts. It was strange seeing Frankie so out of sorts early on but he began to find his feet, stick his southpaw jab in Bundu's face and began planting his backhand into the pit of Bundu's stomach. By the fifth Frankie was oozing confidence as that certain swagger returned to his boxing - slipping punches with his hands down low, using his feet to leave Bundu hitting thin air and the crowd were loving it. Bundu was actually having to think twice now before launching an attack. It continued into the sixth when completely against the run of play Bundu attacked with a bodyshot and Frankie sank to the floor ominously. It looked like he was going to stay there for the count, but he scraped himself up at the last moment and the crowd went delirious! Frankie managed to survive the round, but Bundu went at him like a dog with a bone in the next and was literally tearing away at Frankie's body. Gavin, now sporting a horrible looking cut over his right eye was bouncing from rope to rope, trying to slip and slide his way out of danger but Bundu was never far behind him.
Gavin managed to get back behind his jab and onto his feet in the last few and tried to snatch a couple of the rounds, but it was nip or tuck between Gavin's slickness and Bundu's aggression. Frankie came out in the last with the bit between his teeth, and boxed sensationally on the move to have a gasping Bundu following him helplessly. Alas, it was too little too late and the judges sided with Bundu with two scores of 114-113 and 114-113 while one gave it to Gavin 112-115. Gavin’s gym-mate Tommy Langford was on the undercard, of there were any questions if the honorary Brummie from Bideford had a nasty side he displayed it in an impressive second round stoppage against Brighton's Nicky Jenman. With the television cameras on him, middleweight Langford seemed in the mood to impress from the off and was letting go with fast aggressive combinations. For such a tall fighter, Langford likes to duck under his opponents attacks before responding with two-handed blitzes to head and body. A right hand made Jenman smile in the first, but it was briskly wiped off in the next as the red mist seemed to suddenly descend upon Langford's mood and he decided he wanted to get the Brighton man out of there. He stumbled after one attack causing Terry O'Connor's intervention after 2 minutes 51 seconds of the second round and Jenman was furious with the decision - it probably was a tad too early but it probably saved him from a painful night. Langford improves to 10(2)-0 while Jenman is now 8-8-1. Birmingham's flame haired prospect Joe Costello entered the ring to rapturous support and upped his record to 2(1)-0 with a 39-37 decision over
Chesterfield's game Lee Connelly. Lightweight Costello was razor sharp from the off with his jabs and hooks and seems to have made a faultless transition into the pro ranks after being a top amateur (first English schoolboy to win a gold at the world championships) and his body attack reeked of viciousness. Connelly is nothing if not hard though and soaked the majority of it up without so much as a grimace and his ledger now reads 3-7-1. In a bout not for the faint-hearted - Redditch's Andy Robinson and Trowbridge's Dan Blackwell served up a cracking super-middleweight six-rounder with Robinson getting a deserved 59-56 decision. It was a brutal encounter with Robinson's left ear grotesquely swollen from the second round onwards, and Blackwell's face sweating blood through the latter rounds. Both didn't know how to take a backward step and were relentless in trying to punch the other man onto the retreat. Despite walking into right hand after right hand, Robinson was more economical with his work, and would string together a sequence of hooks and uppercuts whereas Blackwell was always looking for that one shot. It looked on many occasions as though he might find it - but despite been steadied once or twice, Robinson was never in any serious danger. The main concern for the unbeaten man was his deformed ear which was practically hanging down the side of his face at times and began leaking blood in the last. It was a punishing encounter in an increasingly hot and cauldron-like venue, as Robinson stretches his unbeaten run to 12(3)-0 while Blackwell is a very deceptive 6(1)-36.
The Coleshill Post
Dissapointment for Frankie but success for Andy Robinson
@ColeshillPost
Jason Lowe
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The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
@ColeshillPost
Triple Crown competition at Hurley
The Coleshill Post
The GBR/CAA (gbrcaa.org) operate as a specialist body of the British Model Flying Association (bmfa.org) for F3A model aircraft under the world wide rules of the Federation of Model Aeronautic the world Organising body for air sports (FAI.org).
All FAI Aeromodelling international championships, competitions and record activities are conducted under the direction of the FAI Aeromodelling Commission "Comité International d'Aéromodelisme" (CIAM). The GBR/CAA has been established since 1979 and we run competitions for all levels of pilot ability to ultimately provide a team to the represent the United Kingdom at European and World Championships which take place in alternate years. Our team were flying in the European Championships in Liechtenstein in July this year and in Switzerland at the World Championships next year and previously in South Africa and the USA. The Triple Crown event and other events like our UK Team Selection competition are held at the Plane Crazy Model Flying Club with the kind permission of Steve Carfoot the club coordinator. This weekend we were hosts to teams from Ireland and Scotland who with the England provided five pilots each to give as many competitors as possible the experience of international competition. Each team is made up of 4 pilots so the fifth from each country flies in an International team. (the home country provides 2 pilots for the International Team). Pilots started to arrive on Thursday for some intense last minute practice through Friday ready for the pilots briefing on Saturday where the flying order is picked by the Team Captains and flying starts around 9am and continues through the day until all pilots have flown twice each day in front of four judges, again each judge represents a country with two judges form the home country. During the four flights which each pilot will make over the weekend they perform a schedule of intricate manoeuvres on a line parallel to the judges at about 150 from the pilot which gives a flying line of 519 metres long which we call the aerobatic box with the height at a maximum of about 260 metres (850 feet) . There are manoeuvres performed on the centre line each time the model passes the judges and then a ‘turnaround manoeuvre’ at each end of the line to bring the model
back in front of the judges. All the manoeuvres are scored out of ten and multiplied by a difficult factor before being entered into a computerised scoring system. The schedule will include such manoeuvres as an hour glass with half rolls in the horizontal lines and a full roll in the 45 degree down line and are all part of an International schedule agreed by the FAI and flown all over the World. The models should be flown smoothly and as accurately as possible at a constant speed which ideally is around 60 to 75 mph and the pilot has eight minutes to complete his flight. The schedules change every two years. Models have to fit into a 2 meter square box and weigh less than 5 kilograms. Models have traditionally been powered by internal combustion engines made by YS in Japan. These were around 30cc capacity, four stroke, supercharged engines with direct fuel injection and running on model glow plug fuel with a high content of nitromethane. However with the advent of Lithium Polymer batteries and spcialised electric motors most these days are electric powered with using a nominal 37 volts and motors of around 3 kilowatt turning propeller of around 21” diameter. Conventional balsa wood can be used for construction but carbon fibre and composite materials are used more extensively these day as they can be lighter and stronger . Some models are home made but most are imported from specialist manufactures around the world. The flying over this weekend was of a high level but pilots had to cope with the wind blown the models towards them in the strongish cross wind but pilots of this ability have to make it look as though there is no wind and the judges certainly don’t allow for difficult conditions. The pilots have to compensate on their controls throughout the flight to make the model stay ‘on line’. Team England won the competition by a small margin with pilots Matt Hoyland, Steve Underwood, Garry Peacock and Arthur Silsby. Ireland were second with pilots Brian Carolan, Mikey Blake, James Murphy and David Drummond. Then Scotland with Steve Burgess, Malcolm Harris, Bill White and David Kelly. The international pilots were (local lad) Adrian Harrison, Brian Hoare, Brian Houllihan and Wolfgang Schiebel. Matt Hoyland (England) was the highest scoring individual pilot.
www.thecoleshillpost.co.uk
The Coleshill Post - August/September 2014- Issue 14
BY ALAN BECKETT
Saturday 2nd August Coleshill Town 2 v 1 Continental Star
Tuesday 5th August Coleshill Town 1 v 1 Long Eaton United PICTURE BY: ADRIANJONESPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
A Shane Benjamin header put Town 1-0 up at the break but a determined display by a very good Long Eaton team forced an equaliser and the points were shared.
Saturday 9th August Brocton 2 v 8 Coleshill Town
Coleshill went goal crazy. Shane Benjamin got two, one from the spot, but the other goals were shared between Danny Tymon, Danny Douglas, Matt Gasper, Jonathan Jones, Tom Weale and Matt Brown.
Tuesday 12th August Loughborough University 2 v 3 Coleshill Town
Town were 3-0 up by the break courtesy of Danny Tymon, danny Douglas and Daryl Jones but when Douglas was sent off after the break it was a different story and Coleshill only just hung on.
Jilabi Restaurant Coventry Road, Solihull are now the proud sponsor of Coleshill Town Under 16’s
Saturday 16th August Coleshill Town 10 v 0 Nuneaton Griff
FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round Coleshill showed Griff a master class in finishing! The goals came from Simeon Coburn 3, Danny Douglas 2, Jonathan Jones, Tom Weale, Shane Benjamin, Danny Tymon and Dean Withers.
Saturday 23rd August Coleshill Town 0 v 2 Lye Town
Coleshill were brought back down to earth with a bump as they suffered their first defeat of the season. In a game of two halfs Town should have been at least 4-0 up at the break but an inspired performance by the visiting keeper and a resilient defence kept Coleshill out. Lye hit back in the second half with a swift double on the break.
Monday 25th August Coleshill Town 3 v 0 Boldmere St Michaels
There was little between these two good sides but Coleshill’s defence was magnificent and they took their chances when they came along. Simeon Coburne scored on the stroke of half time. Shane Bejamin and Chris Lloyd added to the scoreline in the second half.
Saturday 30th August Coleshill Town 2 v 2 Bromsgrove Sporting
FA Cup Preliminary Round Town took an early lead through Shane Benjamin but Sporting goals either side of half time put Coleshill on the back foot. Dean Rathbone came up with an equaliser 14 minutes from time to earn a replay.
Tuesday 2nd September Bromsgrove Sporting 2 v 3 Coleshill Town Coleshill Colts FC football team took a day out from training to take part in a FUNFIT session. They enjoyed it so much that they are looking to take part on a regular basis each month. If you are interested in finding out more contact FunFit on 07792 982425
FA Cup Preliminary Round Replay Shane Benjamin scored the first goal again but Sporting equalised and the game went to extra time. Sporting took the lead but Simeon Cobourne levelled the score and with just four minutes to play Dean Rathbone pooped up with the winner.
The Coleshill Post
Coleshill got the season off to a winning start with a hard fought win over Star. A Shane Benjamin penalty and a strike by Jonathan Jones put Town 2-0 up. A Danny Douglas own goal was a consolation for Star.
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Coleshill Town FC Match Reports
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